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Engadget News |
- Lethal Pro v2 review
- TomTom user data sold to Dutch police, used to determine ideal locations for speed traps
- Epix brings its thousands of movies to Google TV; apps for Android, Roku and Playbook on the way
- Google Docs gets an Android app, lets you capture text with your phone's camera
- Google launches Chrome 11, flat icon is here to stay
- Meet Power Matt, Powermat's new pun-based superhero ready to answer your tech questions
- Cool Leaf keyboard's shiny, buttonless future gets release date
- Fring Group Video goes live, enables four-way mobile video calls for free
- iPad 2 extends its global reign of terror to Singapore, Japan, 9 other countries this week
- Belkin repackages old wireless routers for its new N-series lineup
- T-Mobile G2x lacks quadband HSPA+, shatters dreams
- Samsung RF712 gaming laptop promises ultra-bright 3D, an end to dimness (video)
- RIM acquires Tungle, might soon bridge your calendar across platforms
- Nikon D5100 impressions, head-to-head with D7000
- Apple confirms it's working on a traffic service, moving away from Google Maps?
- Walmart offers custom gaming PCs from iBuyPower, tube socks still only L or XL
- Apple officially answers questions on location tracking, says it doesn't do it
- White iPhone 4 releases tomorrow, finally
- China unveils space station, launching by 2020
- Windows 8 settings page suggests tablet compatibility, embraces Metro scrollbars (video)
- Verizon's LTE network takes the night off, leaves a bunch of Thunderbolt users bewildered
- Crucial releases m4 SSDs, prices them between $130 and $1,000
- Ad-supported Kindle ships early, fans of grayscale advertising rejoice
- Microsoft Kinect shatters hyper-specific Guinness world record
- Nokia transfers Symbian development and 3,000 employees to Accenture, will downsize workforce by further 4,000
- LG brings flicker-free Cinema 3D to computer monitors, Excel will never be the same
- Qik Video Connect gets Android and Apple users seeing eye-to-eye
- Keepin' it real fake: Windows Phone 7 debuts in China
- Sony teases 'Freestyle Hybrid PC' tablet slider and next-gen ultra-portable laptop
- Amarok's P1 electric motorocycle prototype is fast, light, and ready to race
- Motorola promises unlocked bootloaders for future Android phones? (update)
- Acer Iconia Smart hits the FCC, readies to smack AT&T with 1024 x 480 screen?
- Hulu Plus comes to Xbox 360 April 29th according to OXM
- SETI suspends search for alien life, E.T. weeps in the silent dark of space
- DirecTV asks its customers what they like so much about Netflix, could launch competitor
- Dell's new powerhouse Precision M4600 and M6600 workstation laptops on sale May 10
- Windows Phone and BlackBerry struggle to attract developer attention
- Nikon D5100 gets the iFixit teardown treatment, camera status confirmed
- DARPA's new Space Surveillance Telescope will keep our satellites safe from interstellar debris
- Sony provides PSN update, confirms a 'compromise of personal information' (updated)
| Posted: 27 Apr 2011 10:59 AM PDT  A name like "Lethal Pro" invariably creates a certain set of expectations. Namely, that the product in question is suitable for professional use, and that it least looks like it's potentially lethal. As you can see, this particular all-purpose tablet / smartphone / camera accessory certainly succeeds on the latter count. But can it do more than just double as a prop in a remake of Runaway? Read on for our full review. A slight refinement on the original Lethal Pro, the Lethal Pro v2 is a lightweight rig made of carbon fiber and "high tech alloys," and is intended to serve as both a stand / mount for you smartphone or tablet, and as a camera accessory that's part GorillaPod and part something completely different. For practical purposes, the latter use is unquestionably more interesting than the former.  Thankfully, the rig is a bit more practical as a camera accessory. The screw used to attach the brackets that hold a phone or tablet in place also just so happens to fit a standard tripod mount, which will let you either prop up your camera a bit to get a better shot or attach it to something (like that aforementioned tree branch). In that respect, it could really come in handy in a range of different situations -- shooting time-lapse photography, for instance, or perching it in a tree for some wildlife shots while you hide with a remote. It's also way lighter than it looks (less than eight ounces), and it can be completely folded up and stored in any reasonably-sized camera or laptop bag.  The problem with a product like this is that it's really tempting to just prop it up to get a quick shot, and it will only take one nasty fall to make you regret trusting it with your DSLR. That's somewhat less of a problem if you're only using it with a lightweight compact camera -- It held ours upside down in a tree on its own without any trouble -- but we'd still recommend taking extra care.  As you can probably tell by now, this isn't exactly a product for everyone -- but it will undoubtedly appeal to some folks. Both those that just like to do things a bit differently, and those that want to have an extra rig available for certain situations where a GorillaPod or tripod won't get the job done -- we're sure you can imagine some instances we haven't even though of. For those individuals, the added tablet / smartphone flexibility is simply a bit of a bonus. Just know what you're getting into, as this particular way of doing things differently will cost you a hefty $129. P.S. Contrary to appearances, the feet don't work very well as bottle openers (yes, we tried). Something to consider for the Lethal Pro v3, perhaps. |
| TomTom user data sold to Dutch police, used to determine ideal locations for speed traps Posted: 27 Apr 2011 10:53 AM PDT  Update: TomTom has issued a statement, which we have embedded after the break. To be totally clear all this data is being collected anonymously and the police have no idea exactly who is speeding, just that speeding has taken place. When you use one of our products we ask for your permission to collect travel time information on an anonymous basis. The vast majority of you do, indeed grant us that permission. When you connect your TomTom to a computer we aggregate this information and use it for a variety of applications, most importantly to create high quality traffic information and to route you around traffic jams. We also make this information available to local governments and authorities. It helps them to better understand where congestion takes place, where to build new roads and how to make roads safer. We are actively promoting the use of this information because we believe we can help make roads safer and less congested. We are now aware that the police have used traffic information that you have helped to create to place speed cameras at dangerous locations where the average speed is higher than the legally allowed speed limit. We are aware a lot of our customers do not like the idea and we will look at if we should allow this type of usage. - We ask for your permission to collect historical data. You can opt in or opt out and can disable the data collection function at any time. - If you are using a LIVE device, you receive traffic information in real time and you automatically contribute to generating traffic information. - We make all traffic data anonymous. We can never trace it back to you or your device. - We turn anonymous data into traffic information to give you the fastest route available and route you through traffic jams in real time. - We are working with road authorities around the world to use anonymous traffic information to help make roads flow more efficiently and safer. - Our goal is to create a driver community capable of reducing traffic congestion for everyone. |
| Epix brings its thousands of movies to Google TV; apps for Android, Roku and Playbook on the way Posted: 27 Apr 2011 10:34 AM PDT  EPIX Expands Availability across Consumer Electronic and Mobile Devices New Apps Enable Authenticated Subscribers to Stream 3,000 EPIX Movies and Original Programming on Over One Hundred Devices EPIX to Partner with Distributors in Campaign to Use Apps to Attract New, Authenticated Subscribers New York, NY, April 27, 2011 – Continuing to expand availability wherever viewers are consuming video, EPIX, the premium entertainment channel, video-on-demand and online service, today unveiled apps for download on over one hundred consumer electronic and mobile devices including Android™-powered tablets and phones from a variety of manufacturers such as Motorola®, HTC® and LG®; Samsung® TVs and Blu-Ray™ players; Google TV™; Roku® streaming players; and the BlackBerry® PlayBook™. This is the next phase of EPIX's multi-platform growth strategy as EPIX continues to expand its leadership in authentication and multi-screen entertainment. All EPIX apps are free and allow subscribers who are authenticated via cable, satellite and telco distributors to access over 3,000 EPIX movies plus original programming and extras on demand anywhere there is an Internet connection. As part of the launch campaign for the apps, EPIX is working with distributors to expand the universe of authenticated subscribers via sampling opportunities among heavy consumers of online video. The EPIX apps will provide all consumers free access to EPIX's robust offering of movie trailers, interviews and short form video content. Movie fans will be offered limited free trials to watch EPIX movies and original programs and EPIX will connect those who sample the service to affiliated distributors to subscribe. "Our business was created to take advantage of the changing landscape, understanding how consumers are using technology, and we have been able to successfully work with our partners to create new ways for authenticated subscribers to access premium entertainment when, where and how they want," said EPIX President and CEO Mark Greenberg. "Movies have been a key driver of every new entertainment platform and we are excited to tap the power of movies to engage online viewers and attract new subscribers for our affiliated distributors." Among the providers to offer the EPIX apps at launch will be Verizon FiOS, which was first to launch EPIX across multiple platforms and continues to be a leader in content distribution over advanced technologies. "Verizon FiOS subscribers enjoy a steadily growing lineup of programming, with the freedom and convenience of services like Flex View and FiOS TV Online, as well as providers like EPIX who are making their content available on multiple devices," said Terry Denson, vice president of content strategy and acquisition for Verizon. "We are happy that the new EPIX apps will further expand the choices and accessibility for our FiOS TV customers." EPIX is currently available on Google TV and will roll out additional apps in the coming weeks throughout the second quarter of 2011, delivering an assortment of new hit releases and classic titles from the studio libraries of Paramount Pictures, Lionsgate, MGM, and more, including Star Trek, Iron Man 2, Paranormal Activity 1 and 2, classic franchises like Saw, Tyler Perry's Madea, James Bond and Rocky and EPIX original comedy, music and sports specials featuring top talent like Craig Ferguson, Usher and Lindsey Vonn. Concluded Greenberg, "We look forward to the continued work with our distribution partners in the development of more great apps for all emerging devices and platforms to provide maximum convenience and value for current and potential subscribers alike." About EPIX EPIX, a joint venture between Viacom Inc. (NYSE: VIA and VIA.B), its Paramount Pictures unit, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc. (MGM) and Lionsgate (NYSE: LGF), is a next-generation premium entertainment channel, video-on-demand and online service launched on October 30, 2009. With access to more than 15,000 motion pictures spanning the vast libraries of its partners and other studios, EPIX provides a powerful entertainment experience with more feature films on demand and online and more HD movies than any other service. It is the only premium service providing its entire monthly line-up of new Hollywood titles, classic feature films, original series, music and comedy specials through the linear channel, video-on-demand and online at EpixHD.com, the leading online destination for movies. EPIX has made the commitment to deliver the industry's most expansive online collection of movies, making more than 3,000 titles available on EpixHD.com. The service is available to over 30 million homes nationwide through distribution partners including Charter Communications, Cox Communications, DISH Network, Mediacom Communications, NCTC, Suddenlink Communications and Verizon FiOS. For more information about EPIX, go to www.EpixHD.com. |
| Google Docs gets an Android app, lets you capture text with your phone's camera Posted: 27 Apr 2011 10:01 AM PDT  Google's had a mobile-friendly version of Google Docs available for some time now, but it's now finally gone the extra step and released a dedicated Android app. That will of course let you access and edit your documents on your smartphone, but the real standout feature is the ability to capture text with your phone's camera and have it instantly made editable thanks to some optical character recognition. Google notes that won't work with handwriting or some fonts, but it promises it will get better over time. Hit up Android Market to try it out for yourself. |
| Google launches Chrome 11, flat icon is here to stay Posted: 27 Apr 2011 09:57 AM PDT  [Thanks, noob] |
| Meet Power Matt, Powermat's new pun-based superhero ready to answer your tech questions Posted: 27 Apr 2011 09:43 AM PDT  The biggest problem with modern society? A lack of good super villains. Seriously, today's superheroes are getting flabby from sitting around, twiddling their powerful thumbs. Look at poor Power Matt here -- dude's clearly been working out and doing his shopping at the Justice League department store. So what is he doing with his time? Foiling bank heists or intercepting speeding missiles? Nope. He's Powermat's new mascot, and he's fielding questions about the inductive charging pad on the company's Twitter account. Can someone please help the poor redheaded hero out and kidnap a world leader or something? Or at least steal their microUSB cable? |
| Cool Leaf keyboard's shiny, buttonless future gets release date Posted: 27 Apr 2011 09:21 AM PDT  Keyboards get really gross, really fast, especially when you eat around them. It's a problem the backlit, buttonless Cool Leaf doesn't have to contend with, since it doesn't have any pores for crud to fall into and is easily wiped off with a wet cloth. The lovely mirrored peripheral will be hitting Japanese retailers on May 13th at an unknown price that we expect to be around 20,000 yen ($245) -- steep, not to mention the cost of repairing sprained fingers after an all night term paper writeathon. The Cool Leaf will only be available in a Japanese language, Windows-compatible version at launch, though other languages -- including US English -- and a Mac-friendly variety have also been announced, so the rest of us may have a wait a little longer for the future to arrive. |
| Fring Group Video goes live, enables four-way mobile video calls for free Posted: 27 Apr 2011 09:00 AM PDT  fring launches World's 1st Group Video Calls on iPhone & Android fring's Group Video Calling brings 4 friends together at the same time, anywhere, 4 free London, United Kingdom, 27 April 2011. fring, the mobile communication service that pioneered mobile video over internet calls in 2009, today announces the world's first mobile group video calls for iPhone & Android devices. With fring's Group Video calling, four fring friends can now share a simultaneous video call, for free, on their mobile phone (on Wi-Fi, 3G or 4G) using fring's proprietary DVQ™ technology, that delivers the highest quality video for all four participants. fring is the 1st company to bring mobile Group Video calling across platforms, for free, so that users can see all their friends at the same time, and on one screen. fring's service unshackles users from their PCs, and frees them from heavy PC-based Group Video calling fees. "fring leap-frogs sluggish, expensive PC Group Video Calling solutions by giving users the world's 1st mobile Group Video service, free. There is no reason why users need to run home to their PC in order to have a 'spontaneous' video call with their friends and family. Users love seeing all their friends at the same time, on one screen, but want to be able to do it, when and where they want, "said Avi Shechter, Co-Founder & CEO of fring. "Just as fring was the 1st to liberate video calls from the PC back in 2009, we are the 1st to give users the ability to see all their friends on their phone at the same time, anywhere. This video call revolution lets fringsters be free to get together, wherever." In addition to free Group Video calling, fring enables users to make free 2 way video calls, voice calls and chat with friends on Android, iPhone/iPod touch & Nokia Smartphones. fring group video is available from Apple's App Store and the Android Market. |
| iPad 2 extends its global reign of terror to Singapore, Japan, 9 other countries this week Posted: 27 Apr 2011 08:57 AM PDT  iPad 2 Arrives in Japan, Hong Kong, Korea, Singapore & Eight Other Countries This Week Wi-Fi Version Available in China on May 6 CUPERTINO, California-April 27, 2011-Apple® today announced that iPad® 2, the second-generation of its breakthrough post-PC device, will arrive in Japan on Thursday, April 28 and Hong Kong, Korea, Singapore and eight additional countries on Friday, April 29. iPad 2 will be available at Apple retail stores at 9 a.m. local time, select Apple Authorized Resellers, and online through the Apple Store® (www.apple.com) beginning at 1 a.m. Additionally, iPad 2 with Wi-Fi will be available in China beginning Friday, May 6. iPad 2 features an entirely new design that is 33 percent thinner and up to 15 percent lighter than the original iPad, while maintaining the same stunning 9.7-inch LED-backlit LCD screen. iPad 2 features Apple's new dual-core A5 processor for blazing fast performance and stunning graphics and now includes two cameras, a front-facing VGA camera for FaceTime® and Photo Booth®, and a rear-facing camera that captures 720p HD video, bringing the innovative FaceTime feature to iPad users for the first time. Though it is thinner, lighter, faster and packed with new features, iPad 2 still delivers up to 10 hours of battery life* that users have come to expect. Pricing & Availability iPad 2 with Wi-Fi will be available in Japan on April 28 and Hong Kong, India, Israel, Korea, Macau, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, South Africa, Turkey and UAE on April 29 for a suggested retail price of $499 (US) for the 16GB model, $599 (US) for the 32GB model and $699 (US) for the 64GB model. iPad 2 with Wi-Fi + 3G will be available for a suggested retail price of $629 (US) for the 16GB model, $729 (US) for the 32GB model and $829 (US) for the 64GB model. iPad 2 with Wi-Fi will be available in China on May 6, and further international availability will be announced at a later date. iMovie® and GarageBand® for iPad apps are available for $4.99 (US) each from the App Storeâ„ on iPad or www.itunes.com/appstore. The Smart Cover is available in a range of colors in vibrant polyurethane for $39 (US) or rich leather for $69 (US). *Battery life depends on device settings, usage and other factors. Actual results vary. Apple designs Macs, the best personal computers in the world, along with OS X, iLife, iWork and professional software. Apple leads the digital music revolution with its iPods and iTunes online store. Apple has reinvented the mobile phone with its revolutionary iPhone and App Store, and has recently introduced iPad 2 which is defining the future of mobile media and computing devices. |
| Belkin repackages old wireless routers for its new N-series lineup Posted: 27 Apr 2011 08:37 AM PDT  Expand the Possibilities: Connect More Devices in More Locations with Belkin's New Line of High-Performance Routers Exclusive Technology Delivers Faster Speeds and Fuller Coverage for PCs, Tablets, Smartphones, TVs, and Gaming Consoles (Playa Vista, CA) - April 26, 2011 - Do more, with more devices, in more locations with Belkin's new line of wireless routers. Engineered with MultiBeam technology for maximum speed and coverage, the new routers showcase Belkin's dedication to high-performance networking solutions that support the proliferation of wireless devices, from smartphones and tablets to Internet TVs and gaming consoles, throughout the home. "As people add more connected devices to their home network and the demand for streaming high-definition movies, downloading music, playing games, and sending emails continues to increase, a router that can manage these connections is essential to unlock the true potential of your electronic family," stated Mike Chen, Belkin's General Manager for Networking. "Belkin's newest routers are designed to give you the strongest Internet signal at the farthest distance in your home so your devices work where you live, not where your router lives." All of Belkin's new routers feature MultiBeam, an exclusive technology that provides greater throughput at greater distances. That translates to higher data rates, faster speeds, and stronger wireless signals throughout the home to minimize dead spots and enable you to connect multiple devices in more places. The Belkin N600 DB and N750 DB routers also feature dual-band channels to eliminate interference and optimize performance for bandwidth-intensive applications such as high-definition video streaming. Each router also features Belkin's Easy Setup, a simple process for getting the router out of the box and online in three easy steps, and pre-configured encryption settings for built-in wireless security. AVAILABILITY The Belkin N150, N300, and N600 DB routers are available now in the United States at major retailers and on Belkin.com. The Belkin N450 and N750 DB routers will be available mid-May at major retailers and on Belkin.com. Belkin N150 Wireless Router (F9K1001 ) - $39.99 Wireless speeds of up to 150 Mbps Wireless coverage at twice the speed of G technology Easy Setup and preset security Belkin N300 Wireless N Router (F9K1002 ) - $49.99 Wireless speeds of up to 300 Mbps Easy Setup and preset security Self-Healing App to detect network problems Belkin N450 Wireless N+ Router (F9K1003) - $69.99 Wireless speeds of up to 450 Mbps Gigabit for ultra-fast file sharing Self-Healing App to detect network problems Easy Setup and preset security Belkin N600 DB Wireless Dual Band N+ Router (F9K1102 ) - $79.99 Wireless speeds of up to 300Mbps (2.4 Ghz) + 300Mbps (5Ghz) Simultaneous dual-band operating on 2.4 Ghz and 5 Ghz bands One USB port for wireless printing or storage Self-Healing App to automatically resolve potential network problems Video Mover App for wireless streaming of video content throughout the house Print Zone App allows you to print from anywhere in the home Memory Safe App automatically backs up files to your external hard drive Easy Setup and preset security Belkin N750 DB Wireless Dual Band N+ Router (F9K1103) - $129.99 Wireless speeds of up to 300Mbps (2.4 Ghz) + 450Mbps (5 Ghz) Simultaneous dual-band operating on 2.4 Ghz and 5 Ghz bands Two USB ports for more media sharing or wireless printing Self-Healing App automatically resolves potential network problems Video mover App for wireless streaming of video content throughout the house Print Zone App allows you to print from anywhere in the home Memory Safe App automatically backs up files to your external hard drive Easy Setup and preset security |
| T-Mobile G2x lacks quadband HSPA+, shatters dreams Posted: 27 Apr 2011 08:10 AM PDT  This is obviously unfortunate news, and is clearly a major faux pas on behalf of T-Mobile. It's particularly disturbing since we were so certain of the G2x's quadband 3G support when we discussed it in our last mobile podcast. Oh well, you live and learn, eh? This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| Samsung RF712 gaming laptop promises ultra-bright 3D, an end to dimness (video) Posted: 27 Apr 2011 07:59 AM PDT  You, on the other hand, can check out the RF712 on video after the break courtesy of Johnmichaels01. |
| RIM acquires Tungle, might soon bridge your calendar across platforms Posted: 27 Apr 2011 07:40 AM PDT  |
| Nikon D5100 impressions, head-to-head with D7000 Posted: 27 Apr 2011 07:05 AM PDT  Nikon has stirred up the camera crowds once again with its newly released D5100, filling the industry with the buzz of a new high-resolution articulating screen. In terms of consumer DSLR options, the D5100 has taken on the role of the mid-range model in Nikon's product line between the D3100 and the D7000 and we think it assumes the part rather nicely. In terms of price, the D5100 fits right in as well, fetching an MSRP of $900 (vs. $700 and $1600, respectively for the two aforementioned camera kits). Of course, the D7000 lands you the better 18-105 f/3.5-5.6G ED AF-S VR lens, a larger and brighter viewfinder, built-in focus motor, weather-proof sealing, and a few other internal upgrades. But don't judge too quickly, because we've had some time to play with Nikon's latest creation and the D5100 can certainly shoot along with the big boys of consumer cameras -- read on past the break for our impressions and comparisons with the D7000. Design  To the untrained eye, the D5100's body seems pretty mundane compared to its predecessor (or any other DSLR for that matter) but whip out its articulating screen and you'll find that it swings out the left side of the camera. The new model is about 10% smaller and lighter than the D5000 – while 30 grams isn't a whole lot on paper, we sure do appreciate it after a day of walking around town with the D5100. The grip also has been redesigned slightly and we have to say that despite this camera being on the small side, the new grip still makes it extremely comfortable to hold while shooting due to its shape and material. You'll also notice that then entire button layout has been shifted over to the right to accommodate that new flippy screen, allowing full access to the camera's functions with one's right hand. Still plaguing the D5xxx models is their plasticky-ness, but this flaw is neither surprising nor unwarranted for the price range – it's just a constant reminder that you're still in the amateur and novice section of digital SLRs. That said, we're still impressed with the overall feel and design of the D5100. One glaring problem with the D5100 is the location of both the live view toggle (directly to the right of the mode dial) and the movie record button, which finds itself placed near the shutter. We're big fans of the way Nikon did the D3100 and the D7000's Live View layout on the back of the camera, combining both the Live View dial with the record button into a conveniently placed, single sleek switch, but unfortunately we can't say the same for the D5100. It's just so easy to toggle live view on the either the D3100 or the D7000 by just slightly moving our thumbs in natural opposable motions. The D5100 however, requires the photographer to move their entire hand to toggle live view, not to mention that in order to hit record, you have to use your shutter finger -- this is a disaster when trying to maintain framing or take photos while recording movies. Display  Like the model it's replacing, the hallmark feature of the D5100 is its articulating screen, and rightfully so. As the company's second DSLR with a movable screen, Nikon has listened to the criticism from D5000 users – mainly that it could not be used effectively when attached to a tripod due to its downward position; therefore, Nikon have followed their Canon rivals and placed the screen to the left -- now we can mount our camera on a tripod and still have all of the range of the screen again. Nikon has increased the screen size, replacing the 2.7-inch screen with a much beloved 3-incher (found on Nikon's previous D90), while quadrupling the resolution, giving it a total of 920,000 dots (versus 230,000 dots on the D5000). Colors are remarkably sharp, brightness is outstanding even in direct sunlight, and the high resolution truly makes it a joy to use in live view mode. The built-in accelerometer, which enables the contents on the display to rotate around as the camera moves laterally, is also carried over from the D5000, and we still find it very useful for situations that call for portrait orientations.  So, is the articulating screen enough of a reason to purchase the D5100? Well, not really... The main reason is that there are plenty of better reasons to own this camera than just that horizontal screen -- it really just sets the D5100 apart from other cameras and lets Nikon sell us another prodigious camera. Like we've mentioned in our D5000 review, the swivel screen is still only useful in a handful of situations – i.e. mainly video recording, or when trying to get awkward shots that you're extending limbs and extremities to get. It does not eliminate the shutter lag from shots in Live View, and often times it makes the camera a lot bigger and more obtrusive if you're working in tight areas (concerts and gardens in our experiences).  The overall execution of the screen on Nikon's part is still very, very impressive. The hinge glides and moves as if on rails. The screen locks into position and is very stable at all viewing angles. Combined with Nikon's new auto focus system that is extremely welcomed when shooting video, the D5100 shines for amateur cinematographers – which definitively fills the void we missed with the D5000, as we'll explore in just a moment. Image and video quality  While the D5100 and D7000 share the same sensor, that's pretty much where the similarities end. The D7000 has 39 auto focus points, nine of which are cross types, where as the D5100 has only 11 points, and has a single lonely cross type. The viewfinder is also about half as small, and darker in the D5100 – this is really only noticeable if you are shooting with the two side by side, but for the hardcore Nikonians, framing from the viewfinder is key. That said, the overall image quality of the D5100 isn't too dissimilar to that of the D7000. In most situations, particularly for DSLR newbies, the D5100's image quality is more than adequate and will still have that wow-factor in sharpness and depth of field control. In the test image above, both the D5100 (left) and the D7000 (right) had the 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 VR kit lens attached, and were shooting at 6400 ISO speeds. We found that the high ISO performance of the D5100 fantastic, and were generally pleasantly surprised when shooting above 1600 ISO speeds (where we found lots of noise in shot taken by the D5000). For $900, the D5100 certainly holds its own against the D7000 and other models in the DSLR market. Don't just take our word from it, Check out the sample images in our mini-trip to Battery Park. The D5100 also includes an effects mode, which you can toggle on the main mode dial on top of the camera. One particular effect that Nikon placed a heavy focus on was the night vision mode, where the camera would shoot at a ridiculous 102,400 ISO speed. We initially thought night vision on an mid-range consumer DSLR to be pretty gimmicky, but after testing, we found that it actually works – if you're the black and white, with lots of grainy noise type of person -- check em out in our sample image gallery. The coolness of night vision aside, we found ourselves more drawn to another effects which Nikon included like the miniature effect (provides tilt-shift like images), the selective color effect and our favorite, the color sketch effect (image below).  Also worth noting is that the Nikon D5100 also includes a built in HDR (High Dynamic Range) mode, where the Camera shoots two images sequentially at two different exposures, then merges the images to create a single photo that brings details to both the shadows and the highlights of the picture (example below).  Nikon just kept the ball rolling with the upgrades from the D5000, as we come to one of the biggest and most noticeable ones: video. After Nikon had released the D3100 and the D7000, both having 1080p 24fps video capabilities, it was only natural to assume that the D5100 would follow. Well, Nikon took it one step further, including 1080p at 30fps, which is sorely missed especially on the D7000, and gone is the five minute video cap we despised in the D5000. We are extremely happy and surprised with the D5100's video capabilities. Coupled with an articulating screen, "full time" auto focus, and the aforementioned effects to play with, we can't help but to think that a lot of people are gonna get their 'creative' on with this camera. We do have to say that video auto focus, like the D3100, doesn't work all the time, often missing when tracking subjects, and if accompanied with non-silent motor lenses (like some third-party that Tamron and Sigma lenses offer), the resulting videos tend to have rather annoying audio. We unfortunately did not get a chance to test the Nikon ME-1 microphone with the D5100 during our time with it, but look forward to other users' reactions and reviews of its performance. Wrap-up  So, is the D5100 worth it for previous owners of the D5000 and new buyers alike? Well, unless you have the green to pony up the $900 (kit)/ $800 (body only), the $600 D3100's similar feel and performane might steer you to go the cheaper route. We are still anxiously waiting to get our hands on a Rebel T3i, Canon's direct competitor to the D5100 so we can definitively answer the old Canon / Nikon question, but we're fairly confident that the D5100 can hold its own against its counterpart. With that said, the older D5000 is still a very capable model (especially with reduced pricing), but the D5100 decisively takes the reigns with it's 1080p video capabilities, great image quality, high ISO noise performance and high-res articulating screen. Would we recommend this over the outgoing D90? Of course. You are getting a D7000, with a better screen, better video performance in a less weather-sealed, but lighter and smaller body for around the same price. Would we recommend this over the D7000? Well, it really depends on your needs, but realistically, if money was no object, we'd scream D7000 every time. If you need something to snap a few shots of your kids on the playground, and record a birthday song or two in high definition, then the D5100 will do your memories justice. If you're thinking about getting serious about photography, and doing some portraits and or landscapes for some dough, then you'll appreciate the D7000's weather sealing, built-in auto focus motor (so you can use lenses dating back to the 70's), top mounted LCD and a far superior kit lens (if you're the kit type of person). Either way, the D5100 is a winner in our books, especially for the price. |
| Apple confirms it's working on a traffic service, moving away from Google Maps? Posted: 27 Apr 2011 06:45 AM PDT  |
| Walmart offers custom gaming PCs from iBuyPower, tube socks still only L or XL Posted: 27 Apr 2011 06:18 AM PDT  [Thanks, Mark] iBUYPOWER Partners With Wal-Mart to Launch Custom Configurator on Walmart.com – Build Your Own Gaming Desktop Bundle With many components to choose from Wal-Mart customers can configure hundreds of different iBUYPOWER gaming systems El Monte, CA – April 26, 2011 – iBUYPOWER, a leading innovator in gaming PCs, is excited to announce it has partnered with Wal-Mart to launch the retailer's first custom configurator on Walmart.com – Build Your Own Gaming Desktop Bundle. Wal-Mart customers will now be able to configure a desktop to meet their specific gaming needs. "There are few brands in the world that are as recognizable as Wal-Mart," said Darren Su, Vice President of iBUYPOWER. "It is an honor to be chosen to join forces with them to offer custom built PCs, and will introduce the iBUYPOWER brand to an entirely new segment of gamers." Wal-Mart customers will have 5 cases to choose from, both AMD and Intel "K" processor options, 3 different memory options, 3 hard drive sizes to choose from and both AMD Radeon and NVIDIA GeForce graphics cards options, 3 different optical drives to choose from and three versions of the Windows 7 operating system. The result is over 10,000 different possible hardware configurations (see complete component list below). The new customizable iBUYPOWER systems from Wal-Mart start at $599. All iBUYPOWER systems come standard with 1 year limited warranty and lifetime technical support. For additional information about iBUYPOWER please visit iBUYPOWER.com, or contact PR representative Mark Olson at 305.576.1171 x17 or markolson@maxborgesagency.com. About iBUYPOWER iBUYPOWER Computer, an enterprise in association with American Future Technology Corporation (AFT), is one of the largest system builders in the PC gaming industry. Located in Los Angeles County, iBUYPOWER's mission is to provide a complete computing solution to meet the needs of the surrounding community and customers nationwide. Currently, the company's product lines include gaming desktops, gaming notebooks, workstations, media center PCs, peripherals and multimedia products. www.iBUYPOWER.com. |
| Apple officially answers questions on location tracking, says it doesn't do it Posted: 27 Apr 2011 05:36 AM PDT  Apple is not tracking the location of your iPhone. Apple has never done so and has no plans to ever do so. The big hubbub that arose last week around location tracking within the iPhone has now received its due response from Apple itself. Firstly, the Cupertino company claims it does not, and has no plans to, track users' iPhones. What it's actually doing is "maintaining a database of Wi-Fi hotspots and cell towers around your current location," which are then used to provide speedier calculation of your position when you want to use the device's maps or other location-based services. The data collection that was recently brought to the public attention represents, according to Apple, the location of WiFi hotspots and cell towers around you, not your actual iPhone. Still, the fact iPhones have been shown to store as much as a year's worth of data is considered a bug by Apple, who plans to limit that period to a week in a future software update. The additional issue of data being collected after users turned off Location Services is also a bug, also to be fixed by Apple in that upcoming update. Left unanswered, however, are the questions of when Apple "uncovered" these bugs, as it claims, and why the fix for them is only coming now. Specialists have known about this behavior since at least September of last year. Either way, the software remedy is promised over the next few weeks, while the next major iteration of iOS should encrypt the cache file that's been the subject of all the scrutiny. You'll find the full Q&A after the break. P.S. -- One of Apple's answers seems to disclose an extra bit of new information: "Apple is now collecting anonymous traffic data to build a crowd-sourced traffic database with the goal of providing iPhone users an improved traffic service in the next couple of years." Apple Q&A on Location Data CUPERTINO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Apple would like to respond to the questions we have recently received about the gathering and use of location information by our devices. 1. Why is Apple tracking the location of my iPhone? Apple is not tracking the location of your iPhone. Apple has never done so and has no plans to ever do so. 2. Then why is everyone so concerned about this? Providing mobile users with fast and accurate location information while preserving their security and privacy has raised some very complex technical issues which are hard to communicate in a soundbite. Users are confused, partly because the creators of this new technology (including Apple) have not provided enough education about these issues to date. 3. Why is my iPhone logging my location? The iPhone is not logging your location. Rather, it's maintaining a database of Wi-Fi hotspots and cell towers around your current location, some of which may be located more than one hundred miles away from your iPhone, to help your iPhone rapidly and accurately calculate its location when requested. Calculating a phone's location using just GPS satellite data can take up to several minutes. iPhone can reduce this time to just a few seconds by using Wi-Fi hotspot and cell tower data to quickly find GPS satellites, and even triangulate its location using just Wi-Fi hotspot and cell tower data when GPS is not available (such as indoors or in basements). These calculations are performed live on the iPhone using a crowd-sourced database of Wi-Fi hotspot and cell tower data that is generated by tens of millions of iPhones sending the geo-tagged locations of nearby Wi-Fi hotspots and cell towers in an anonymous and encrypted form to Apple. 4. Is this crowd-sourced database stored on the iPhone? The entire crowd-sourced database is too big to store on an iPhone, so we download an appropriate subset (cache) onto each iPhone. This cache is protected but not encrypted, and is backed up in iTunes whenever you back up your iPhone. The backup is encrypted or not, depending on the user settings in iTunes. The location data that researchers are seeing on the iPhone is not the past or present location of the iPhone, but rather the locations of Wi-Fi hotspots and cell towers surrounding the iPhone's location, which can be more than one hundred miles away from the iPhone. We plan to cease backing up this cache in a software update coming soon (see Software Update section below). 5. Can Apple locate me based on my geo-tagged Wi-Fi hotspot and cell tower data? No. This data is sent to Apple in an anonymous and encrypted form. Apple cannot identify the source of this data. 6. People have identified up to a year's worth of location data being stored on the iPhone. Why does my iPhone need so much data in order to assist it in finding my location today? This data is not the iPhone's location data-it is a subset (cache) of the crowd-sourced Wi-Fi hotspot and cell tower database which is downloaded from Apple into the iPhone to assist the iPhone in rapidly and accurately calculating location. The reason the iPhone stores so much data is a bug we uncovered and plan to fix shortly (see Software Update section below). We don't think the iPhone needs to store more than seven days of this data. 7. When I turn off Location Services, why does my iPhone sometimes continue updating its Wi-Fi and cell tower data from Apple's crowd-sourced database? It shouldn't. This is a bug, which we plan to fix shortly (see Software Update section below). 8. What other location data is Apple collecting from the iPhone besides crowd-sourced Wi-Fi hotspot and cell tower data? Apple is now collecting anonymous traffic data to build a crowd-sourced traffic database with the goal of providing iPhone users an improved traffic service in the next couple of years. 9. Does Apple currently provide any data collected from iPhones to third parties? We provide anonymous crash logs from users that have opted in to third-party developers to help them debug their apps. Our iAds advertising system can use location as a factor in targeting ads. Location is not shared with any third party or ad unless the user explicitly approves giving the current location to the current ad (for example, to request the ad locate the Target store nearest them). 10. Does Apple believe that personal information security and privacy are important? Yes, we strongly do. For example, iPhone was the first to ask users to give their permission for each and every app that wanted to use location. Apple will continue to be one of the leaders in strengthening personal information security and privacy. Software Update Sometime in the next few weeks Apple will release a free iOS software update that: reduces the size of the crowd-sourced Wi-Fi hotspot and cell tower database cached on the iPhone, ceases backing up this cache, and deletes this cache entirely when Location Services is turned off. In the next major iOS software release the cache will also be encrypted on the iPhone. |
| White iPhone 4 releases tomorrow, finally Posted: 27 Apr 2011 05:35 AM PDT  White iPhone Arrives Tomorrow CUPERTINO, California-April 27, 2011-Apple® today announced that the white iPhone® 4 will be available beginning tomorrow. White iPhone 4 models will be available from Apple's online store (www.apple.com), at Apple's retail stores, AT&T and Verizon Wireless stores and select Apple Authorized Resellers. "The white iPhone 4 has finally arrived and it's beautiful," said Philip Schiller, Apple's senior vice president of Worldwide Product Marketing. "We appreciate everyone who has waited patiently while we've worked to get every detail right." iPhone 4 is the most innovative phone in the world, featuring Apple's stunning Retina™ display, the highest resolution display ever built into a phone resulting in super crisp text, images and video, and FaceTime®, which makes video calling a reality. Pricing & Availability White models of iPhone 4 will be available in Austria, Australia, Belgium, Canada, China, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, Macau, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Switzerland, Sweden, Taiwan, Thailand, UK and the US, beginning Thursday, April 28 and in many more countries around the world soon. White iPhone 4 will be available for a suggested retail price of $199 (US) for the 16GB model and $299 (US) for the 32GB model with a new two year agreement through the Apple Store® (www.apple.com), at Apple's retail stores, AT&T and Verizon Wireless stores and select Apple Authorized Resellers. Apple designs Macs, the best personal computers in the world, along with OS X, iLife, iWork and professional software. Apple leads the digital music revolution with its iPods and iTunes online store. Apple has reinvented the mobile phone with its revolutionary iPhone and App Store, and has recently introduced iPad 2 which is defining the future of mobile media and computing devices. |
| China unveils space station, launching by 2020 Posted: 27 Apr 2011 05:22 AM PDT  |
| Windows 8 settings page suggests tablet compatibility, embraces Metro scrollbars (video) Posted: 27 Apr 2011 04:53 AM PDT  |
| Verizon's LTE network takes the night off, leaves a bunch of Thunderbolt users bewildered Posted: 27 Apr 2011 04:19 AM PDT  Is your fancy new phone lacking that certain extra G that makes it special? Worry not, it's not just your device, Verizon's entire LTE network seems to be having problems as outages have been reported from across the US. We tested our own Thunderbolt in San Francisco this morning and it was indeed making do with only 3G connectivity. It's important to note that Verizon's 3G network seems to be ticking along quite alright, it's just 4G service that's down at the moment. Some folks have reported losing both 3G and 4G connectivity, but that's owing to a documented issue with 3G provisioning on the Thunderbolt -- we've noted the way to overcome that problem in a previous post. For now, just enjoy your regular-speed mobile internet until the super-fast stuff is fixed and back up.Update: The Verizon Wireless Twitter account has confirmed the issue, and that the company's network engineers are "working to resolve quickly." [Thanks to everyone who sent this in] |
| Crucial releases m4 SSDs, prices them between $130 and $1,000 Posted: 27 Apr 2011 03:39 AM PDT  Crucial m4 Solid-State Drive With Higher Capacities and Faster Performance Now Available Next-Generation SSD Builds on the Award-Winning and Popular Crucial RealSSD C300 Key Messages: Next-generation Crucial® m4 SSD – the successor to the award-winning Crucial RealSSD™ C300 – is now available worldwide. Ideal for business customers and general consumers, the Crucial m4 incorporates Micron Technology's 25nm NAND flash design and innovations. Capacities range from 64GB to 512GB in a 2.5" form factor. Supports SATA 6Gb/s interface, and achieves read speeds up to 415MB/second and write speeds up to 260MB/s. FREMONT, Calif. and GLASGOW, U.K., April 26, 2011 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Lexar Media, a leading global provider of memory products for digital media, today announced the immediate availability of Crucial m4 solid-state drives in capacities ranging from 64GB to 512GB. Designed for both business customers and general consumers, the Crucial m4 SSD product line incorporates Micron's industry-leading 25-nanometer (nm) NAND flash technology in a 2.5" form factor. Like its Crucial RealSSD C300 predecessor, the Crucial m4 also supports the SATA 6Gb/s interface, opening up the data path between the host processor and the SSD, and resulting in improved overall system responsiveness, including faster boot times and application loads. The new Crucial m4 SSD reaches read speeds of up to 415MB/second, a 17 percent increase over its predecessor. Likewise, write speeds on the new 512GB capacity have demonstrated increases up to 260MB/s, a 20 percent boost over the fastest C300 drive1. Ideal for client computing, Crucial m4 SSD products provide benefits for notebooks, desktops, workstations, and industrial applications, including low power consumption, lightweight construction, and resistance to shock and vibration. "The new Crucial m4 SSD builds on the enormous success of its predecessor, the Crucial RealSSD C300. As a subsidiary of Micron Technology, we're in the unique position of leveraging Micron's NAND development and manufacturing expertise for our Crucial branded SSDs," said Robert Wheadon, worldwide senior product manager. "These next-generation m4 SSDs offer customers higher capacities and even greater performance at affordable prices." Competitively priced at US$129.99 for a 64GB SSD; US$249.99 for a 128GB SSD; US$499.99 for a 256GB SSD; and US$999.99 for a 512GB SSD, the Crucial m4 SSD product line is backed by a three-year warranty and available now at www.crucial.com/ssd, or through leading channel partners worldwide. Follow us online! Facebook: www.facebook.com/crucialmemory Twitter: www.twitter.com/crucialmemory YouTube™: www.youtube.com/crucialmemory |
| Ad-supported Kindle ships early, fans of grayscale advertising rejoice Posted: 27 Apr 2011 03:09 AM PDT  |
| Microsoft Kinect shatters hyper-specific Guinness world record Posted: 27 Apr 2011 02:19 AM PDT  |
| Posted: 27 Apr 2011 01:29 AM PDT  Nokia announces plans to transfer Symbian software activities to Accenture; Accenture to provide future smartphone ecosystem services to Nokia Published April 27, 2011 Nokia Corporation Stock exchange release April 27, 2011 at 11.15 (CET +1) Espoo, Finland and New York, US - Nokia (NYSE: NOK) and Accenture (NYSE: ACN) today announced plans for a strategic collaboration in which Nokia would outsource its Symbian software activities and transition about 3,000 employees to Accenture. At the same time, Accenture would provide mobility software services to Nokia for future smartphones. The collaboration, which is subject to final agreement, calls for Accenture to provide Symbian-based software development and support services, with the expected transition of about 3,000 Nokia employees to Accenture. The companies expect completion of the final agreement during summer 2011, and expect the transition of employees by the end of the calendar year 2011. Transitioning employees, located in China, Finland, India, United Kingdom and the United States, will initially work on Symbian software activities for Nokia. Over time, Accenture and Nokia will seek opportunities to retrain and redeploy transitioned employees. This collaboration also includes plans for Accenture to provide mobility software, business and operational services around the Windows Phone platform to Nokia and other ecosystem participants. Under the proposed agreement, Accenture would become a preferred partner for Nokia's smartphone development activities, as well as a preferred provider of services. "Mobility is a key area for Accenture," said Marty Cole, chief executive, Accenture Communications and High Tech group. "This collaboration with Nokia will enhance our ability to help clients across multiple industries leverage mobility to advance their business agendas. It is a real win-win for Accenture and Nokia". "This collaboration demonstrates our ongoing commitment to enhance our Symbian offering and serve our smartphone customers," said Jo Harlow, executive vice president for Smart Devices, Nokia. "As we move our primary smartphone platform to Windows Phone, this transition of skilled talent to Accenture shows our commitment to provide our Symbian employees with potential new career opportunities." Accenture and Nokia have been working together since 1994. In October 2009, Accenture acquired Nokia's professional services unit that provides engineering and support of the Symbian operating system to mobile device manufacturers and service providers, and which then served as a key building block in Accenture's Mobility services portfolio. Nokia starts measures to align workforce and site operations with new strategy Published April 27, 2011 Nokia Corporation Stock exchange release April 27, 2011 at 11.15 (CET +1) Espoo, Finland - To deliver on its new strategy, Nokia today announced plans to align its global workforce and consolidate site operations. These measures are part of Nokia's target to reduce its Devices & Services non-IFRS operating expenses by 1 billion euros for the full year 2013 in comparison to the full year 2010, as announced last week. Earlier today, Nokia announced plans to form a strategic collaboration with Accenture that would result in the transfer of Nokia's Symbian software activites, including about 3,000 employees to Accenture. In addition, Nokia also plans to reduce its global workforce by about 4,000 employees by the end of 2012, with the majority of reductions in Denmark, Finland and the UK. In accordance with country-by-country legal requirements, discussions with employee representatives started today. Nokia also plans to consolidate the company's research and product development sites so that each site has a clear role and mission. Nokia expects the expansion of some sites and the contraction or closure of others. All employees affected by the reduction plans can stay on the Nokia payroll through the end of 2011. Nokia expects personnel reductions to occur in phases until the end of 2012, linked to the roll-out of Nokia's planned product and services portfolio. During this period, Nokia intends to ramp up its capacity for the development of Nokia smartphones based on the Windows Phone platform, the company's broad range of mobile phones and its services portfolio. "At Nokia, we have new clarity around our path forward, which is focused on our leadership across smart devices, mobile phones and future disruptions," said Stephen Elop, Nokia president and CEO. "However, with this new focus, we also will face reductions in our workforce. This is a difficult reality, and we are working closely with our employees and partners to identify long-term re-employment programs for the talented people of Nokia." Nokia is launching a comprehensive social responsibility program for employees and the communities likely to be affected by the personnel reductions. The program will be led locally, with local partners and stakeholders, and senior management support. "We are offering those who are losing their jobs a range of options, from individual re-employment support and re-training to making investments to promote innovation and working with a variety of partners to create new opportunities," Elop continued. |
| LG brings flicker-free Cinema 3D to computer monitors, Excel will never be the same Posted: 27 Apr 2011 12:31 AM PDT   LG Opens New Era Of 3D Monitors With Brightest, Most Comfortable 3D Viewing SEOUL--(Korea Newswire) April 26, 2011 -- LG Electronics (LG) today announced the release of two CIN-EMA 3D Monitors –D41P and D42P – equipped with LG's new Film Patterned Retarder (FPR) 3D technology. With FPR 3D technology, the monitors offer a brighter display, clearer images, and a "Flicker-Free" certified 3D picture that makes 3D viewing more comfortable. "Although 3D is one of the hottest items in technology today, some consumers are holding back from purchasing 3D products because of concerns over performance and price," said Si-hwan Park, Vice President of the Monitor Division, LG Home Entertainment Company. "With CINEMA 3D Monitors, we've addressed all these concerns. The advanced picture quality, more comfortable glasses and competitive pricing makes it very hard to keep put-ting off 3D." The monitors' "Flicker-Free" certification, shared with LG's CINEMA 3D TVs, was awarded by TÜV and Intertek, two of Europe's top safety certification agencies. The certi-fication recognizes that LG's CINEMA 3D Monitors have largely eradicated onscreen flicker, which had occasionally caused dizziness and nausea among viewers watching conventional 3D displays. With CINEMA 3D Monitors, viewers are now able to watch 3D content for longer periods in greater comfort. Thanks to LG's FPR technology, LG CINEMA 3D Monitors also provide clearer, brighter 3D images and lower crosstalk, meaning less eyestrain. In contrast with conventional 3D glasses, LG CINEMA 3D glasses are lightweight and entirely free of electrical parts, so and the glasses are lighter – thus more comfortable – and they never need to be recharged. LG CINEMA 3D Monitors also boast great compatibility. The monitors work with all graphic cards and are compatible with popular home PC operating systems. They support HDMI 1.4 for easy hook-up with other 3D devices, making it possible to play 3D content without a PC. Also, a 2D to 3D conversion function converts regular content into top-quality 3D on the fly, so viewers will never be short of 3D content to enjoy. In addition, a recent detailed survey conducted in five markets by Research Company TNS found that 77 percent of respondents expressed a preference for FPR type 3D monitor based on image quality, comfort and convenience of glasses. The survey involved blind testing after the product demonstration of almost 230 consumers across both Shutter Glass (SG) type and FPR type 3D monitor with respondents viewing a series of 3D video clips on each screen. The LG Cinema 3D Monitor will be launched in Korea today and will be rolled out globally early June starting in Europe. News Source: LG Electronics Inc. Web Site: http://www.lge.co.kr |
| Qik Video Connect gets Android and Apple users seeing eye-to-eye Posted: 26 Apr 2011 11:44 PM PDT  |
| Keepin' it real fake: Windows Phone 7 debuts in China Posted: 26 Apr 2011 10:56 PM PDT  |
| Sony teases 'Freestyle Hybrid PC' tablet slider and next-gen ultra-portable laptop Posted: 26 Apr 2011 10:10 PM PDT  Also shown alongside is a swanky "Ultimate Mobile PC" -- pictured after the break -- with a hint of USB 3.0 and HDMI on a slim body, but again, there's not much else to go with this slide. Hey, at least we now know it's time to start saving up for these bad boys.  |
| Amarok's P1 electric motorocycle prototype is fast, light, and ready to race Posted: 26 Apr 2011 08:13 PM PDT  |
| Motorola promises unlocked bootloaders for future Android phones? (update) Posted: 26 Apr 2011 07:27 PM PDT  We completely understand the operator requirement for security to the end user, and as well, want to support the developer communities desire to use these products as a development platform. It is our intention to enable the unlockable/relockable bootloader currently found on Motorola XOOM across our portfolio of devices starting in late 2011, where carriers and operators will allow it.Wonderfully corporate of them to pass the buck to the carriers, no? This quote comes by way of a gentleman who petitioned Moto for just such a thing, mind you, so please take it with a grain of salt, and you'll be the first to know if we get confirmation from Motorola itself. Update: AusDroid managed to get in touch with Motorola North Asia, and it sounds like we're looking at the truth -- let's see if Sanjay Jha agrees when he wakes up tomorrow morning. |
| Acer Iconia Smart hits the FCC, readies to smack AT&T with 1024 x 480 screen? Posted: 26 Apr 2011 06:34 PM PDT  |
| Hulu Plus comes to Xbox 360 April 29th according to OXM Posted: 26 Apr 2011 05:59 PM PDT  |
| SETI suspends search for alien life, E.T. weeps in the silent dark of space Posted: 26 Apr 2011 05:13 PM PDT  Our progress toward intergalactic fellowship has suffered another blow, as SETI suspended operations of its Allen Telescope Array. Funded by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, the array is a collection of radio dishes that scan the skies for signs of life; now it'll be in "hibernation" mode until 2013, when the institute's new round of funding begins. SETI hopes to raise $5 million to bring the Array back online before then, while it continues to use other telescopes around the world, including the Hubble Space Telescope. The budget woes are especially bitter given the number of recently identified alien planets – NASA's Kepler mission found 1,235. If any of them are broadcasting the next Wow! signal, let's hope it doesn't fall on deaf earthling ears. |
| DirecTV asks its customers what they like so much about Netflix, could launch competitor Posted: 26 Apr 2011 04:31 PM PDT  [Thanks, Mike & Patrick] |
| Dell's new powerhouse Precision M4600 and M6600 workstation laptops on sale May 10 Posted: 26 Apr 2011 03:57 PM PDT  New Dell Precision Workstations Support Flexible Work Environments with Uncompromised Performance New Dell Precision M4600 and M6600, the world's most powerful 15.6" and 17.3" mobile workstations, enable professionals to work anywhere, anytime without sacrificing performance New Dell Precision R5500 rack workstation delivers uncompromised performance and scalability to remote users while safeguarding and centralizing customer data Dell partners with leading ISVs to certify its workstations with professional software applications for optimized performance and reliability ROUND ROCK, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dell today announced the next generation Dell Precision M4600 and M6600 mobile workstations and dual-socket Dell Precision R5500 rack workstation, building upon the company's heritage of delivering the highest-performing and most scalable workstation products. These mobile and remote systems, specifically designed for professionals who need raw horsepower, scalable performance and application certification, deliver a desktop workstation experience without being tied to a specific location. "Dell Precision workstations with NVIDIA Quadro ensure these professionals are getting the kind of visualization and high performance computing horsepower they demand." Dell Precision M4600 and M6600 Mobile Workstations: Ten years after launching the first ever mobile workstation, Dell continues its leadership by introducing new mobile systems that are ideal for professional 2D or 3D computing and analyzing massive amounts of data. The Dell Precision M4600 and M6600 represent the world's most powerful 15.6" and 17.3" mobile workstations with 2nd generation Intel® Core™ i7 processor Extreme edition and 1600MHz system memory options. Dell successfully packed more performance and power into its new mobile workstations while at the same time increasing usability for on-the-go productivity. The Dell Precision M4600 combines incredible performance with a durable yet lightweight 15.6" size and now offers a keyboard with a number pad, increased maximum memory capacity of 32GB1, outstanding performance and protection of data with RAID 0/1, and increased hard disk drive (HDD) maximum up to 750GB2. The 17.3" Dell Precision M6600 unites exceptional processing and graphics performance and productivity-boosting features in a sleek and dependable professional system. The M6600 is designed for the most demanding users looking for a larger display, higher scaling graphics options and additional storage with up to three options including an optional 2nd HDD and 128GB2 solid state drive (SSD) mini card with RAID 5 support. The M6600 will also offer the new flagship NVIDIA Quadro 5010M mobile professional graphics with 4GB2 of GFX memory in the coming months. Enhancements and options to the new mobile workstation family include: Sleek and professional redesign with a rigid and durable aluminum and magnesium alloy chassis and MIL-STD 810G tested for extreme temperatures, vibration, dust, altitude and shock; Certification on the top applications from Autodesk, Dassault Systemes, PTC, Siemens PLM Software and many others to ensure established software reliability for demanding applications; Wide range of AMD FirePro™ Mobility Professional Graphics and NVIDIA Quadro Professional Graphics options with up to 2GB2 GDDR5 dedicated memory for high performance and accuracy for complex models; Optional four-finger multi-touch display for drawing, writing, editing and zooming onscreen with fingers or stylus and touch-enabled engineering software applications; Optional 100 percent color correct PremierColor IPS RGB LED display with PremierColor calibration software for accurate color reproduction and brilliant clarity for bright, crisp images3; Expansive DDR3 memory with four DIMM slots for up to 32GB1 of 1333MHz memory or up to 16GB1 of 1600MHz memory for blistering performance; Connectivity to virtually all peripherals with five USB ports including two USB 3.0, two USB 2.0 and one combination USB 2.O and eSATA and three video out options including DisplayPort, VGA and HDMI; NVIDIA Optimus™ technology that intelligently detects graphics performance needed to help extend battery life; AMD Eyefinity technology that supports up to five simultaneous displays4 for workflow productivity and increased visual real estate for viewing large models and multiple applications; Powerful 2nd generation Intel® Core™ processors with options up to Intel Core i7 Extreme Edition for enhanced performance and productivity. Dell Precision R5500 Rack Workstation: Dell has enhanced its rack workstation by providing the full scalability and performance of its highest performing desktop workstation into a dual-socket rack form factor, the Dell Precision R5500. With the R5500 located in a customers' secure data center or other centralized location, users can remove heat, noise and bulk for a more favorable workspace and boost productivity for global and rotating workforces by providing remote 1:1 access to the workstation from virtually anywhere. The R5500, which is purpose-engineered for professionals who require compute intensive applications and extreme performance with remote capability, offers the latest Intel Xeon processors with memory capacity of up to 192GB1 and dual-wide GPU slots that scale up to 450 watts. In addition, the R5500 offers options for up to five industry standard full-height and full-length PCIe x16 slots including support for a full range of dual high-end graphics and general purpose (GP) GPU compute solutions from NVIDIA including the newest NVIDIA Quadro and NVIDIA Tesla™ solutions. Users can seamlessly connect to the R5500 via optional PC-over-IP® hardware-based compression technology, from Teradici™, from the Dell FX100 Zero Client. PC-over-IP hardware-based compression transfers only the rendered graphics pixel data over the network, ensuring a fast and responsive remote experience. Alternately, customers can remotely connect via a standard notebook or desktop with optional VMware® View™ software. The rack workstation also offers certifications from leading ISVs including Autodesk, PTC, Siemens PLM Software, Softimage, Schlumberger, ESRI, Dynamic Graphics, CNC, and many others to ensure users' critical software is compatible and runs smoothly on their R5500 workstation. Dell Security, Services and Support: All Dell Precision workstations come with robust security options to protect assets and intellectual property including Dell Data Protection | Encryption, Dell DataSafe Online Backup, fingerprint reader and Dell System Track and Recovery service. Dell Precision customers can maximize their uptime with optional Dell ProSupport5 for 24/7 access to advanced technicians through a single point of contact for both Dell and non-Dell hardware and software issues. They can also take advantage of Custom Factory Integration (CFI) for simple and fast deployment and robust manageability options to help keep operations running smoothly and IT costs down. Quotes: "We are constantly looking for new ways to spur creativity and improve efficiency," says Erik Horn, creative director at Arts+Labor, a creative content and media production firm. "Especially when we are shooting on location, we need computers that are powerful and portable, and the new Dell Precision mobile workstation seemed like the perfect fit. Our team members need to handle a wide variety of functions, from video editing and compositing to music editing and media production for interactive formats, and with Dell's new workstations, we can use a single platform to handle all of those tasks efficiently." "Dell understands that today's evolving workforce expects instant access from any device, work-location flexibility and sophisticated systems to stay productive," said Steven Lalla, vice president and general manager of Commercial Client Product Group, Dell. "To address these new workplace dynamics, Dell continues to develop new workstation solutions that support customers' unique work environments while still enabling them to access unparalleled workstation performance and reliability." "The proliferation of data, rapid technological advances and more dispersed and global workforces have brought new challenges to organizations," said Jon Peddie, President of Jon Peddie Research. "These organizations must be equipped with solutions that provide high performance, manageability and security to support their end users in all types of working environments. Dell continues to deliver on providing best in class workstation solutions and the end-to-end capabilities needed to address the full scope of a company's computing needs." "Engineers, designers, animators, and video editors consistently rely on NVIDIA GPUs for the best graphics performance and high performance computing capabilities," said Jeff Brown, general manager, Professional Solutions Group, NVIDIA. "Dell Precision workstations with NVIDIA Quadro ensure these professionals are getting the kind of visualization and high performance computing horsepower they demand." "AMD and Dell have collaborated to offer the Dell Precision M6600 with AMD FirePro M8900 and Dell Precision M4600 with AMD FirePro M5950 as workflow tools for professionals in a wide range of industries," said Sandeep Gupte, Director, Product Management, AMD Professional Graphics. "With AMD Eyefinity multi-display technology, engineers and designers can increase their productivity by expanding their visual real estate. Dell Precision workstations and AMD FirePro™ Mobility Professional Graphics deliver advanced technology, performance and reliability that professionals expect." Pricing and Availability: The U.S. starting price for the Dell Precision M4600 is $1,678 and $2,158 for the M6600 and both will be available globally on May 10. The Dell Precision R5500 starts at $2,551 USD and will be available in the U.S. and EMEA on May 3 and in Asia-Pacific Japan region on May 10. |
| Windows Phone and BlackBerry struggle to attract developer attention Posted: 26 Apr 2011 03:11 PM PDT    |
| Nikon D5100 gets the iFixit teardown treatment, camera status confirmed Posted: 26 Apr 2011 02:34 PM PDT  We've seen plenty of tablets go under the spudger at the iFixit teardown labs, but seldom has a DSLR been gently gutted and photographed for all to see. Today's victim is the $900 Nikon D5100, which just hit stores last week. After popping out the battery (the D5100's only user-serviceable component), the engineers removed the motherboard, 16.2 megapixel CMOS sensor, and everything else they could get their hands on, even going so far as to desolder some wires. The verdict? The camera is very difficult to disassemble -- perhaps because "approximately 4 billion screws hold the device together." Teardowns are arguably more fun than unboxings (trust us, we know), so hit the link below for more camera-in-the-buff shots. |
| DARPA's new Space Surveillance Telescope will keep our satellites safe from interstellar debris Posted: 26 Apr 2011 01:49 PM PDT  What's that in the sky? A bird? A plane? Oh, it's just some junk floating around in space, posing major threats to our military's spy satellites. To help keep an eye on it, engineers at DARPA, MIT and the Air Force have unleashed a new $110 million telescope that's been in the works for nine years now. The new Space Surveillance Telescope (SST) is capable of delivering wide-angle views of the Earth's firmament thanks to a curved CCD. This allows for a massive 3.5m aperture and f/1.0 exposure settings, capturing more light in a day that your average scope can in a week. As part of the Air Force's Space Surveillance Network (SSN), the telescope's primary task will be to look out for any microsatellites, meteors or other alien droppings moving at the same speed at which the Earth rotates. The system developed its first images earlier this year and the Air Force may eventually place SSTs all over the world, creating a 360-degree surveillance blanket and going a long way toward keeping our spycraft warm, cozy, and safe from galactic hazards. SPACE SURVEILLANCE TELESCOPE TO PROVIDE ENHANCED VIEW OF DEEP SPACE April 12, 2011 Swirling thousands of miles above earth, military satellites provide critical capabilities to warfighters-which makes protecting them from collision with space debris, meteors and microsatellites a top priority. Until now, monitoring the deep regions of space has been difficult, with spots and gaps in coverage leaving these high-flying machines vulnerable. DARPA's newly developed Space Surveillance Telescope (SST) aims to change that, ushering in a new era of ground-based space surveillance technology to fill coverage gaps and offer an unprecedented wide-angle view of small objects in deep space. "Currently we have a 'soda straw' view of deep space, where we can only see one narrow segment of space at a time," said Air Force Lt. Col. Travis Blake, DARPA's Space Surveillance Telescope program manager. "The Space Surveillance Telescope should give us a much wider 'windshield' view of deep space objects, significantly enhancing our space situational awareness." The key to the SST is its innovative design, which allows the telescope to be much more compact than existing ground-based telescopes. Using a unique curved charge coupled device (CCD) technology, the SST doesn't require the long optics train of a more traditional telescope design. The design makes the SST less cumbersome on its moveable mount, enabling it to survey the sky rapidly. The telescope's mount uses advanced servo-control technology, making the SST one of the most agile telescopes of its size ever built. "The SST will give us in a matter of nights the space surveillance data that current telescopes take weeks or months to provide," Blake added. Beyond providing faster data collection, the SST is very sensitive to light, which allows it to see faint objects in deep space that currently are impossible to observe. The detection and tracking of faint objects requires a large aperture and fast optics. The SST uses a 3.5 meter primary mirror, which is large enough to achieve the desired sensitivity. The system is an f/1.0 optical design, with a large-area mosaic CCD camera constructed from the curved imagers and a high-speed shutter allowing for fast scanning at the high sensitivity. The SST aims to provide a large expansion of the space objects catalog in the geosynchronous region of space, giving satellite operators a fuller picture of objects that could collide with satellites. In addition to detecting and tracking potential hazards in deep space, SST may also provide the science community a unique asset for astronomical surveys of stars and comets. The SST achieved "first light," meaning the collection of its first images, earlier this year. DARPA's SST demonstration phase will continue to test and prove system functions and autonomous operations for detecting dim objects. DARPA's primary performers for the SST are the Massachusetts Institute of Technology's Lincoln Laboratories and L-3 Brashear Corporation. |
| Sony provides PSN update, confirms a 'compromise of personal information' (updated) Posted: 26 Apr 2011 01:15 PM PDT  Update: Our friends at Joystiq are reporting that Connecticut Senator Blumenthal is rip roarin' mad about the situation, "demanding answers" from SCEA president Jack Tretton. Right now, we're more curious what Kevin Butler has to say about things. Update 2: Sony UK is shedding more light on just what data has been exposed, and frankly we were happier when it was dark. By the sound of things, everything Sony had about you has been accessed. There's a full list after the break, so only click on through if you dare. Update 3: Sony's just posted a clarification regarding the delay of their response: in a nutshell, PSN was shut down after the intrusion on April 19th, and the company needed to work with outside experts to "understand the scope of the breach" before posting the full lowdown earlier today. For those interested, Sony has a lengthy FAQ page regarding this incident. [Thanks to everyone who sent this in] Here's what Sony UK indicates was exposed:
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