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Friday, June 10, 2011

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Microsoft talks Xbox Live integration in Windows 8, says service will be 'pervasive' across devices

Posted: 10 Jun 2011 11:43 AM PDT

Microsoft's already brought Xbox Live integration to Windows Phone 7, and it looks like you can count on some similar, if not deeper, integration in Windows 8 as well. Speaking to The Seattle Times, Microsoft VP Mike Delman said that "Live has been successful on the Windows Phone," and that "Live will be built into the PC. It will be the service where you get your entertainment." Delman went on to add that "Xbox Live will the pervasive media service across devices," and that "whether it's us or Apple or anybody else, people want to be able to navigate through multiple devices in a certain ecosystem very seamlessly so we're committed to that." As you might expect, however, he was still fairly light on any further specifics, but he did say that assets like Live and SkyDrive will be unified, and he promised that Microsoft will have plenty more to show at next year's E3 -- according to Delman, "you will not just see consoles and handhelds at this show next year, this show's going to morph into other devices."

Samsung Chromebook Series 5 review

Posted: 10 Jun 2011 11:00 AM PDT

For almost two years now, Google's been talking up the idea of always-on, always-connected laptops based on a version of its Chrome browser. Local storage, of course, was not an ingredient in the equation. And while a lucky few developers got to put the concept to the test with the help of the CR-48, it never surfaced as an honest to goodness consumer product. At last, though, the Chromebooks are here, starting with Samsung's Series 5, a cute little number that promises instant-on access, 3G connectivity, and long enough battery life to web surf with the best of 'em. But is this new class of computers -- and this solidly built one, in particular -- poised to make an impact? Let's find out.
Samsung Series 5 Chromebook review


Look and feel


As journalists, the ideal thing when covering a story would be to come at it free of expectations, pre-formed opinions. In the case of the Series 5 (or any Chromebook, really), that's a challenge. As much as we tried to ignore all the chatter about how Chromebooks are what netbooks should have been and what-have-you, we nonetheless expected something that looked -- and felt -- like a mini. Something underpowered with middling build quality. Something more... disposable.

Make no mistake, though: the Series 5 is more laptop than netbook. And it's a damn memorable one, too -- one that belies its $429 starting price. Even after hearing Darren extol the Series 5's build quality in his hands-on last month, we were pleasantly surprised by its thoughtful design. The first thing you'll notice is the glossy, white lid with metal Samsung and Chrome logos -- including a colorful globe to signify Google's OS. While we've seen our share of branding overload, the logos in this case add character without being tacky.

The entire system, meanwhile, is decked out in a soft, rubberized plastic that you could easily mistake for carbon fiber, and the result is one solid, formidable piece of machinery. After just a few hours of testing, the palm rest was covered in fingerprints, but we do like that the finish looks richer than flat plastic and at the same time isn't reflective. We also appreciate that Samsung tucked two of its ports -- one of the USB 2.0 sockets and the video-out port -- underneath a discreet door, as it did on the much fancier Series 9. Anything laptop makers can do to make those surfaces look relatively clean is always appreciated. Too bad you need to use the included adapter to connect to a monitor -- a VGA one, at that.


But there are other, smaller details that make this feel like a higher-quality machine than your garden-variety netbook. The machine's rounded shape gives it a fresh, playful feel, and we dig that Samsung rounded off the keys tucked in the corner of the keyboard so that their shape echoes the outline of the chassis.

Of course, the flip side to all of this -- getting a laptop when you expected something netbook-sized -- is that you'll end up toting something that weighs about as much as, well, a laptop. We won't kvetch too much about its 3.26-pound weight, as the laptop's easy to slip inside a bag or even hold with one hand. Still, it feels a tad heavy for something with such a diminutive 12.1-inch screen.

Continuing our tour around the system, you'll find a small AC opening and a headphone / mic combo port -- both on the same side as that video-out socket we were telling you about. Meanwhile, on the other side there's a covered full-sized SIM card slot, and another USB 2.0 port. Given that it has a non-removable battery, the bottom of the device is pretty clean, save for a double-dose of screws and stickers, along with four sets of openings.

Keyboard and trackpad


So, the keyboard's pretty fantastic. The keys are not only well spaced, but they're backed by a rigid panel. Even while hammering out urgent emails the deck felt sturdy. Also, Samsung replaced the function keys with backward, forward, and refresh buttons, along with ones for toggling between windows and entering / exiting full-screen mode. You'll also volume, mute, and multimedia keys, as you would on most any other laptop. Really, the biggest challenge here might be adapting your habits so that you take advantage of those browser keys. We're so used to clicking the refresh icon near the URL bar, that we often forgot we could just press a button.

And that's a shame, because the trackpad ain't all that great. Starting with the good news, there's plenty of space for digits to move, and two-fingered scrolling works like a charm. The trouble starts when you get to clicking. Like many buttonless touchpads we've tested, this one sometimes mistakes left clicks for right ones -- a sign, we believe, of a too-narrow clicking zone. Lots of these laptops went on to have great touch experiences with the help of driver updates. The CR-48, the grandaddy of Chromebooks, is no exception. Right now, though, it's our single least favorite thing about the Series 5.

Display and sound


The 12.1-inch (1280 x 800) display has a thin bezel housing a 1 megapixel camera. That 300-nit (matte!) display is even brighter than the one belonging to a $900 system we just reviewed. We have to agree with Darren's first take here -- the viewing angles are impressive, particularly for a machine of this price. We had no problem seeing the screen from the side, though predictably, you'll find the picture gets progressively washed-out as you dip the screen forward. And, because of that brightness and matte finish, we were even able to view it in direct sunlight, as you can see in some of the shots in the gallery above. Hell, even standing above a the laptop at an odd angle, we were able to make out the screen outdoors.

As you might expect, the sound on this machine isn't anything to write home about. While watching a Saturday Night Live clip indoors with mild background noise, we had the volume cranked almost to the maximum. We ultimately lowered it to about the 75 percent mark, but that was more because we felt sheepish about watching "Best Cry Ever" in the office.

Chrome OS

Anyone who's used Google's Chrome browser should get the hang of Chrome OS instantly, though it's still incorrect to say they're one and the same. Naturally, using the computer requires signing into your Google account, which means, for better and worse, that all of your email, calendar appointments, and web searches have followed you there. You can also create a white list of people who are allowed to sign into their accounts on that machine. Much has been made of Google's scarily detailed treasure trove of telling data, but there's also something to be said for turning on a computer for the first time and instantly feeling like it's yours and no one else's. Using a Chromebook feels deeply personal, and we'll be curious to see if the experience is the same in the case of models whose designs we don't love this much.

Speaking of instant, we can get used to having a laptop that turns on as soon as we lift the lid (okay, you might notice a one-second delay in the video above). As far as we're concerned, people underestimate this as a bona fide feature that's somehow not on par with local storage. Maybe you can't live without a desktop (we're not sure we can either, but more on that later). Point is, instant-on isn't a mere perk: it's one of the primary reasons you might be tempted by a machine like this.


When you launch a tab in Chrome OS, it will, by default, show you a series of large, glossy icons -- a stand-in for the row of apps you'd see on a smartphone. These include the obvious ones (Gmail, Google Calendar, Docs, and YouTube), as well a couple you might not have heard of -- namely, the note-taking app Scratchpad and the game Entanglement. It's a small detail, but we love that if you're having a conversation in Gchat, the box will stay put in the lower right-hand corner of the screen, regardless of what tab you're looking at. You can always click the boxes to minimize them, and they'll flash orange when you get an incoming message. Now why can't the Chrome browser do that?

There's also a shortcut to the Web Store, where you can buy apps specially formulated for Chrome. The Web Store's selection is fairly limited in this early stage, but we're optimistic it'll grow beyond Angry Birds and a hodge podge of tools. And ultimately, it had almost everything we needed. An image resizer? Check. An audio recorder? You got it. It also packs favorites like TweetDeck, much to our relief. (Frankly, we don't get the point of apps from bigwigs like NPR and The New York Times; their full-fledged websites look just fine.) To boot, Google added a crude media player and file manager for sifting through your downloads.


But, we were super bummed when we found that it doesn't support Netflix -- yet. Skype Control wouldn't work on our system due to Xvid incompatibility. After all, isn't the beauty of Chrome OS supposed to be that it's built on a browser lots 'o folks know how to use? Like we said, there are workarounds aplenty in the Web App Store. But if we, a bunch of tech journalists, felt put-upon by having to learn new tricks, how will the mainstream consumers who bought this at Best Buy feel once they get this thing home?

Speaking of workarounds, Google launched Chromebooks with Cloud Print Beta ready to go. The problem is, you need either an HP ePrint printer or you'll have to print the indirect way -- through a Windows machine on the same network that's on and has the Chrome browser installed. Additionally, this doesn't apply to Macs or Linux machines, but Google promises support for those platforms is coming soon.


All told, there were a bunch of times when we needed to reach for our 15-inch powerhouse, but to be honest, this only happened during work hours, which, in our case, involves a lot of photo and video editing. Obviously, though, that's not what this Atom-powered Chromebook was intended for anyway. For wasting time on the couch, it's perfect.

It's also worth pointing out that Citrix Receiver is still on schedule for a summer release, and as we reported back at Google I/O, that app is poised to enable pretty much any desktop app sitting on a Windows blade server to run within Chrome OS. In theory, anything from your company's accounting software to Adobe's Photoshop will be functional within the browser. It's a bit sluggish, sure, but we've all ideas that Google will be toiling around the clock to make tunneling options like these all the more viable.

Performance

We've already established that the Series 5 isn't a netbook. But it does pack some netbook-like specs: a 1.66GHz Intel Atom N570 CPU, integrated Intel graphics, and 2GB of RAM. Like Chrome browser, Chrome OS can isolate pages that have crashed and resolve the problem without taking down all of your tabs. Throughout testing, one site (the fashion blog The Style Rookie, of all things) repeatedly made the OS go haywire. This is what you'll see when something goes wrong. Clearly, some Trekkie over at El Goog has a sense of humor.


We had no problem juggling a dozen open tabs, a list that included Gmail, Google Calendar, several news stories, Scoutmob, and the content management system we use to compose posts. Only when we pushed the system to take on a ludicrously unrealistic workload did it start to falter. And by ludicrous, we mean opening the same YouTube clip in two windows, with half a dozen tabs apiece. By the fourth tab of the first window, we noticed the pages were slower to load, and formed something of a queue. The sixth outright crashed. But somehow, we're guessing that's not what you'll be doing with your Chromebook.

Battery life

It's incredible. Samsung promises up to eight and a half hours of continuous use, which sounds about right to us. One day, we started using our Series 5 at 8:20 am with 78 percent battery life (or an estimated six hours and forty-five minutes left). Throughout the day, we used the machine to write this very review, talk on Gchat, and look up stories on Engadget. Intermittently, we closed the lid and left our desk to attend meetings. By 6:20 pm, we still had 13 percent, or 55 minutes, left.


Even better, when you close the lid, the machine doesn't sip battery power. Whenever we came back to our desk and lifted the cover to waken the machine, the battery life rating remained unchanged from when we left. The charging is reasonably fast, but it's not ThinkPad X1 fast. At one point during a recharge, the battery indicator predicted it would take 36 minutes to charge the remaining 18 percent. That means fully recharging a dead battery would take northward of three hours. Luckily, you won't have to do this that often, and the power brick is nice and compact.

3G

The Series 5 starts at $429 for the WiFi only version, though there's also a $499 model with a 3G radio that runs on Verizon's network. There's also a full-sized SIM card slot for adding your own. Big Red will throw in a complementary 100MB per month for the first two years you own it, though that's a token, really -- performing two five-second tests on speedtest.net alone knocked us down to 94MB. Paid plans start at $9.99 for an unlimited day pass, and progress to $20 for a monthly 1GB pass, $35 for 3GB, and $50 for 5GB. Note that even if you opt for just the free service, you'll have to provide your name, address, email, phone number, and credit card number for identification purposes.

We can't vouch for Verizon's 3G network in parts of the country we haven't visited, but wandering around New York City, we always had three or the full four bars of service. On average we saw 2.14 Mbps download speeds, and 0.76 Mbps upload rates, which was fast enough for checking our mail and surfing the web in cafes and a nearby park.

Wrap-up



Assigning a rating and verdict to the Series 5 is no easy task -- after all, it's difficult to divorce our impressions of the first consumer Chromebook from our broader thoughts about the category. We'll start with the obvious: Chromebooks are not for everyone. If you're thinking of buying one, you're likely part of a self-selecting group of folks who are confident they don't need local storage -- at least not in a mobile machine like this, which could well be a secondary computer. If you're considering buying this, having a physical keyboard is probably important to you, too.

On the one hand, Chrome OS has real limitations in this early stage. On the other, it would be short-sighted to knock a Chromebook solely because the OS is a work in progress -- after all, does anyone doubt Netflix streaming is coming? Make no mistake: Google is going to plug away at this OS and you'll get those updates as they come.

Also, we think it's a bit simplistic to dismiss Chromebooks as offering too few features for the price -- we'd say long battery life and instant-on access are selling points in their own right, and for many people could be worthy trade-offs for a traditional desktop. For starters, you could pay a lot less for the Series 5 than you would an 11-inch MacBook Air, and get superior battery life and boot times. Heck, you'll get better build quality, startup time, and longevity than lots of higher-priced PCs. It all comes down to whether you need more than a browser.

All that said, the Chromebook experience isn't quite for us right now, but we won't presume that's true of our readers, especially early adopters. So -- and here we get to the point -- if you're certain you can live in the Chrome browser and the Chrome browser alone, and would readily trade local storage for a zero-second boot time, we think Chromebooks have a lot of potential. Whether you choose to buy right now is your call, but when you do, the Samsung Series 5 is an impressive option. It's solid, built with care, and long-lasting. A hell of a companion for people who are ready to move to the cloud and not look back.

Engadget Podcast 243 - 06.10.2011

Posted: 10 Jun 2011 10:30 AM PDT

This week is all about stuff we knew was happening actually happening: we got a big ol' slice of Apple pie raining down from the clouds, a new way to control your Nintendo fever, and...a bunch of not-so-exciting news from the folks who bought you Windows 3.1, Windows 95, and Notepad. Join Tim, Darren, and Brian as they recount their journeys through piles of press conferences and trade shows here -- on the Engadget Podcast.

Host: Tim Stevens
Guests: Brian Heater, Darren Murph
Producer: Trent Wolbe
Music: Got My Mind Set On You

03:55 - WWDC 2011 liveblog: Steve Jobs talks iOS 5, OS X Lion, iCloud and more!
06:27 - OS X Lion launching in July for $29.99, Lion Server to run $49.99
12:39 - Apple turns iOS 'PC Free' with OTA updates and wireless sync
19:11 - Apple unveils iMessage, its BBM competitor, at WWDC
22:24 - Apple announces iTunes in the Cloud, iTunes Match
30:05 - Live from Microsoft's E3 2011 keynote!
31:00 - Kinect support explodes, EA Sports, Mass Effect 3, and more hop on board
31:30 - Microsoft's new Xbox 360 UI has Bing voice search across Hulu, Netflix, YouTube, and live TV
32:52 - Kinect Star Wars hands-on: Engadget and Joystiq get in touch with the Force
34:11 - Sony's PlayStation Vita official: $249 for WiFi, $299 for 3G
35:00 - Sony's PlayStation Vita: first hands-on impressions
37:43 - Live from Nintendo's E3 2011 keynote!
39:05 - Nintendo admits its Wii U highlight reel was spiced up with PS3 and Xbox 360 footage
40:00 - Nintendo Wii U console eyes-on
41:50 - Nintendo Wii U controller, first hands-on! (video)
47:33 - Hyperkin SupaBoy portable SNES console hands-on (video)
50:24 - Listener questions

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iTunes Match not coming to the UK until 2012?

Posted: 10 Jun 2011 10:11 AM PDT

Music collectors in the US will be able to subscribe to Apple's iTunes Match service this fall, but it looks like our friends across the pond will have to wait a little longer before lofting their libraries up to the cloud. According to sources within the British recording industry, licensing negotiations between Apple and the country's major labels have only just begun and likely won't be concluded until 2012. A spokesman for the Performing Right Society, an organization that protects the rights of musicians and songwriters, likened the situation to the launch of iTunes, which only spread to international markets some 14 months after launching in the US. Speaking to the Telegraph, Forrester Research vice president Mark Mulligan echoed these predictions, while offering some insight into the industry's approach:

"Apple's cloud music service will not launch in the UK until at least quarter one of 2012. These types of negotiations take a long time... For one thing the UK arms of all the major record labels are biding their time and waiting to see how the service affects download sales in the US before they sign up to anything."

Neither Apple nor any of the major labels have commented on the negotiations, but if things drag on we'd be willing to share our cloudy iTunes in exchange for a crack at Spotify.

Three suspected members of Anonymous arrested in Spain

Posted: 10 Jun 2011 09:42 AM PDT

Anonymous behind barsThe long arm of the law may have finally caught up with some of the hackers behind the recent (and seemingly endless) PSN outage. Authorities in Spain say they have arrested three members of the hacktivist collective Anonymous and seized at least one computer used in the attacks on Sony. Those arrested are believed to have been important in coordinating the group's activities in the country and to have distributed the Loic DDoS tool to others. Now, of course, the Spanish government will have to be on high alert -- if we know one thing about Anonymous, it's that it is not trigger shy when it comes to exacting revenge.

Engadget Primed: What is NFC, and why do we care?

Posted: 10 Jun 2011 09:00 AM PDT

Primed goes in-depth on the technobabble you hear on Engadget every day -- we dig deep into each topic's history and how it benefits our lives. Looking to suggest a piece of technology for us to break down? Drop us a line at primed *at* engadget *dawt* com.

engadget primed

The introduction of Google Wallet felt a little too good to be true, didn't it? It's magical, like the tech equivalent of pulling a rabbit out of a hat. In reality, the tech behind mobile payments has been around since 2003 on a much smaller scale using near-field communications, more commonly known as NFC. The idea behind Wallet (amongst other services, like ISIS) is contactless pay -- using your phone as a credit card -- and is just one of the many ways NFC can be useful in our everyday lives. In fact, we're only scraping the surface of what's theoretically possible.

Google is definitely not the first company to dabble in NFC, but it appears to be poised and ready to push the tech's adoption forward at a rapid pace with the advent of Wallet and Offers. Until now the coals have been hot; but if a fire's going to start, someone monolithic has to throw a few newspapers in as kindling -- and Google volunteered. But what good is NFC if it's just an acronym that causes our eyes to glaze over? Is El Goog the only instigator? After the break we'll focus on what NFC is capable of, and why we want it on our phones as soon as yesterday.

Table of Contents
Behold, the magic of NFC
What can we do with NFC?
NFC: Where is it now?
Major Players
The system isn't perfect, yet
To the future... and beyond
Behold, the magic of NFC
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NFC, the brainchild of Sony and NXP, is at the bottom of the wireless totem pole. It allows two devices embedded with chips to snuggle up together and transmit small pieces of data between each other when they are in close proximity. This data can be credit card information, coupons, tickets...you get the idea. As all of this is rather sensitive, it means you'll need to get up close and personal with the other device in order for it to suck down your data -- a simple swipe or tap should do the trick, and your most intimate bytes will soon be whisked away into the wilds of the internet.


Remember RFID? That's the baby that started it all, and it's been around since the '90s. RFID microchips are installed in reader tags that can be found in a number of everyday items -- they're found in stores, supply chain equipment, animal tags, and even "smart" passports. There's a good chance you already take advantage of it if you have a MasterCard PayPass. There's a RFID chip installed on your credit card that, when tapped on the payment station, will complete your purchase without needing to go the "old-fashioned" route.

Since NFC is based on the same technology, it's easy to mistake it for RFID. It takes the same type of chips and bumps it up a notch by adding computing power. That's why putting it on a phone is so critical; NFC not only needs the proper hardware (an antenna and controller, both shown below) but the right software (OS platform support, apps, etc) as well.


Google Wallet is a prime example of blending hardware and software together. The Wallet is an Android app (available only on Sprint-powered Nexus S phones at first) that will store virtual versions of your credit cards, gift cards, and coupons. Go into the app, punch your PIN code in, and you'll be able to tap your phone onto the merchant's paystation to checkout and purchase stuff. But this app wouldn't do a thing if the Nexus S didn't have an NFC chip already built-in.


The full capabilities of NFC can be broken down into three key genres:

1. Card Emulation Mode - The mode in which Google Wallet and other forms of contactless pay will be based, card emulation mode is exactly what it sounds like -- the phone becomes your credit card. Emulating a traditional smart card makes it convenient for companies like MasterCard and Visa that already have infrastructures set up for contactless pay, since nothing has to be changed.

2. Reader Mode - This allows the phone to read passive RFID tags on posters, stickers, and other stationary objects that contain certain types of information on them. For instance, you could tap your phone on the reader tag in a movie poster and it would begin playing the movie trailer, provide theater times, locations, and so on.

3. Peer-to-peer (P2P) Mode - P2P offers interaction between two active NFC-equipped devices such as phones. Using this mode, you could make payments to another individual or business just by tapping the two phones together. If the ice cream truck comes barrelling down your street or if your neighbor wants to pay you for that cup of sugar they just asked for, cash would no longer be a necessary part of the transaction. Or, what if you just got a killer track and you want to share it with your neighbor on the bus? P2P Mode is the magic that'll make it happen.


As the name implies, P2P could also go a long way in creating an enhanced multipla yer gaming experience. One example we've seen already is Angry Birds Magic, a newfangled build of the world's most popular time waster. We're certain this could open up to hundreds of other uses for multiplayer gaming.

NFC technology works in a similar manner to Bluetooth -- after all, they're both wireless technologies that rely on close-range and secure transmissions -- but there are some important differences.

"Mobile payments are just the tip of the NFC iceberg."
With NFC, it's faster to connect two devices together and it can't transmit as far. The intrigue of mobile payments is that it takes less time to swipe your phone across a device at the register than it does to whip out the plastic or check. This is one of the primary reasons phone manufacturers and credit card companies are working hard to persuade skeptical merchants; the faster a line moves, the more a company profits.

What can we do with NFC?
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As highlighted earlier, mobile payments are just the tip of the NFC iceberg. There are virtually limitless applications and uses that could be developed for it, and here's some that are in the works (if not already out and ready to go):
  • Monitor your health
  • Mobile tickets for trains/planes/mass transit (see ISIS video below)
  • Unlock doors: hotel rooms, cars, etc.
  • Pair bluetooth devices by tapping on your phone
  • Log onto WiFi networks
  • Check-ins: Foursquare, Latitude, etc.
  • Initiate a video chat or join a conference call
  • Share files between phones: music, docs, photos
  • Store mobile "punch cards" for restaurants
  • Replace grocery store value cards with mobile coupons
Alright, we threw in the last couple options to satisfy our own wishful thinking; it's perfectly feasible though, so just be sure to give us credit if you decide to make it actually work.

Now, it may go without saying that both devices will need to have NFC chips and antennas installed already, but what if your handheld device doesn't have one? In the US, that means anybody that doesn't own a Samsung Nexus S or Nokia Astound; at least, those are your only choices if you're not so inclined to nab an NFC phone from overseas and use it on US airwaves. Here's a few external methods you can employ:

SIM and MicroSD cards - It's hard to believe that NFC hardware could be embedded on such a small piece of equipment, but SIM cards and MicroSD have been developed that would allow the same kinds of contactless pay on your NFC-less phone. The only negative aspect factoring into this method is the idea that these chips are laying underneath multiple layers of metal and plastic, which could downgrade the quality of the antenna's signal.

Here's a quick demo of how it works:


External sticker/sleeve - By putting your device in a sleeve or case containing the necessary hardware, you'd have an uninterrupted signal being broadcasted; these things can be a bit thicker or bulkier, however. Softbank released an iPhone NFC sticker last year that is thin enough to allow the Apple bumper to go right on top of it, yet still emits an NFC signal.


NFC: Where is it now?
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This tech has been around for several years, and the only place it's found real success to date is in Japan, so why is it taking so long to reach acceptance everywhere else? One would probably have an easier time figuring out if the proverbial chicken beat out the proverbial egg. Phone manufacturers don't want to factor in the additional cost of NFC hardware without being absolutely certain it's going to pay off for the company and its shareholders, but it's even more difficult for merchants to sign on and drink the Kool-Aid if there's no hardware for its customers to purchase stuff on. There had to be one common denominator that every player could agree on.

Over the coming years, a much heavier emphasis will likely be placed on NFC adoption. Several analysts have estimated how many phones will ship with this capability by 2015, all indicating an explosion of growth in NFC use; the chart below takes a look at one such forecast, courtesy of iSuppli.



According to the estimates, over 30 percent of all phones globally will have NFC built-in within the next four years. Why is there such a sudden spike in interest and growth?

"The main driver of NFC is contactless pay. All of the other benefits are just side effects."

The main driver of NFC is contactless pay. All of the other benefits listed above are just side effects, made possible because mobile payments will end up generating enormous piles of money for the banks, credit card companies, and OEMs. Several companies are involved in bringing NFC to the mainstream, but over the last year or so we've seen some highly influencial ones help bring this technology to the spotlight. So, who's largely to thank?


Major Players
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Google - By adding NFC hardware to its Nexus S and software into Gingerbread, Google laid the foundation to its new empire of mobile payments and other potential applications. It found traction by signing critical deals with MasterCard, Subway, Macy's, and several other vendors, and announced Wallet (presumably in anticipation of any possible Apple announcement). The company helped NFC move forward a great deal by giving it plenty of needed exposure.

Nokia - Nokia began incorporating NFC into a few of its phones a few years ago. The only one that hit any sort of stride in the US was the 6131 on T-Mobile, but the company did have a larger influence on its use overseas. Google may have struck the necessary deals and made the headlines, but it's hard to imagine NFC really picking up steam without Nokia's involvement.

ISIS - As a joint venture by AT&T, Verizon Wireless and T-Mobile, ISIS aims to integrate contactless pay and interactive coupons into your phone. The company is reportedly working to partner with Visa and MasterCard for now, and the system will be trialed in the summer of 2012 on the Utah Transit Authority in Salt Lake City. ISIS could easily be influencial due to the support it has from three out of the four national US carriers.

But will ISIS clash with the Google Wallet or any service put out by other OS platforms? At the recent D9 conference, AT&T Mobility CEO Ralph de la Vega answered that question by saying ISIS is currently in talks with Google to put their services together, and that the goal of the joint venture is to unite mobile commerce, so you can keep the same wallet when you move from one carrier to another.

Let's take a look at the ISIS vision:


MasterCard - MasterCard is one of the pioneers of mobile payments and was instrumental in setting up a thriving infrastructure with Paypass. Enough time has passed for consumers to become accustomed to the concept of contactless pay, and the costs of setting it up on our phones are a lot lower thanks to existing infrastructure. Certainly having the buy-in from Google and ISIS will be extremely beneficial to continue growing at a faster rate.

Samsung / Visa - Visa has already been hard at work rolling out its mobile payment system worldwide, but Samsung has partnered up with the company to get London hooked up for the 2012 Olympics. An Olympic and Paralympic Games mobile handset will be available complete with a Visa-enabled SIM card. The idea is so crazy it might just work -- so long as the handset is offered at an affordable price, that is. International travelers will rely mainly on prepaid SIM cards to communicate during their Olympic visit, and we think having an inexpensive phone to go along with that SIM is a no-brainer. So, why not add NFC to the handset and let your new visitors take it for a spin?

These are just a few of the companies working together to make mobile commerce real. As a result of their hard work, millions upon millions of handsets will start shipping with NFC-enabled chipsets over the next year. But just as we see happen with any blossoming technology, there's bound to be some concerns along the way.


The system isn't perfect, yet
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Naturally, most people have a difficult time coming to terms with leaving their wallets at home; it's a huge risk to rely solely on our electronic devices. Glitchy hardware or software can cause your phone to crash, and at one time or another we've all probably experienced a panic attack as our battery dies. Nobody will leave home without a backup, and no merchant will ditch plastic altogether, either. Most businesses still take checks and cash, after all. We have difficulty swallowing the mantra of "keep your wallet at home," since we're going to need our photo ID, licenses, permits, or other random rubbish we fill them with. And so what if it takes an extra ten seconds to open our wallet, take a card, and swipe through the machine?

"And so what if it takes an extra ten seconds to open our wallet, take a card, and swipe through the machine?"

The other concern -- security -- is far more important to consumers. Since we'd be using this tech to handle wireless payments and other transactions involving highly sensitive personal data, do you think anybody will want to give it a go, knowing full well it's vulnerable to possible attacks? How do we know our credit card information isn't getting hijacked every time we tap or swipe our phones? We've seen the downfall of other venues that house our personal information (we're looking at you, PSN) and wonder what the likelihood is of the same thing happening when we use our phones.


Fears of hijacked mobile payments are part of the reason why we haven't seen a massive adoption of NFC yet. It's hard to convince the general populace this is as safe (if not safer) as stuffing your life savings under the mattress, and we imagine this preconceived notion of your bank account getting broken into will take a few years to get over. The big players discussed earlier are investing a huge chunk of money to make sure this type of thing won't happen, since the success of contactless pay depends on it.

Google is not taking the security of its Wallet lightly. Purchases -- at least during this summer's trial -- will be limited to $100; the NFC standard restricts all communications to 4cm as a way of preventing malicious attempts at your personal data from the outside; and finally, credit card data is encrypted and stored away from the rest of the core OS, on a tamper-resistant chip. This information can only be accessed by specific authorized programs. As an added measure, Google has set up a system of three PIN codes before the transaction can be made: first to unlock the phone itself, second to get into the Google Wallet, and third to be required at the time of transaction. Just don't make your PIN something obvious like "1111" or "1234," okay?

With contactless pay kicking into high gear, it's normal for us to have these kind of fears. It's a whole new ballgame, after all, so should we wait until all the bugs are worked out? Since our phones will be using the same exact infrastructure as our contactless cards, there's no reason to believe the transaction side will be any less secure. The only question we have, frankly, is on the software side. How difficult will it be for a hacker to get into the Wallet app even with the security measures in place? Will the "open" nature of Android OS be Google's downfall?

We're confident that OEMs, banking institutions and vendors will all make the user's security a top priority, and are taking every step necessary to ensure our data is safe -- if they don't, nobody will buy into the idea. It doesn't mean it's foolproof, but you're living in a cave if you think that any form of payment actually is.


To the future... and beyond
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What phones will have NFC support in the coming months? With Sprint partnering up with Google Wallet and the other three US carriers backing ISIS, it's very likely we'll begin seeing NFC phones become mainstream in the next two years. Just in the last six months, we've seen an outpouring of OEM support for NFC tech in their phones and operating systems: Samsung will sell a NFC-equipped version of the Galaxy S II later this year; RIM announced that the BlackBerry Bold Touch 9900 will be hooked up, as well as any devices using OS 7 going forward; HTC is working on embedding chips into its hardware within the next 12 months; the list goes on. And don't forget, we're still not sure what Apple's got cooking up in iOS 5, or if we'll see the hardware built in to the next iPhone.

There's a lot to be sorted out, of course; the security measures, the support from US carriers and merchants, and the fact that each platform will need to form its own agreements with merchants since there's no universally accepted standard to bring them all together. And we wouldn't be surprised to see the government try to make its way into the whole mess in the near future.

But let's face it -- like it or not, NFC is coming in a big way. You don't have to participate if you don't want to, but we're excited to see what near-field communications will do for us. Yes, there are still a lot of wrinkles that need to be ironed out, but the increase in support in the last six months has been exponential. Get ready, because the NFC news coverage might indeed be a trickle in the desert right now, but the inevitable flash flood that's coming will be unstoppable. Truth is, we know we're going to get addicted. It's just like any other cool gadget -- the first time we get a random stranger to share the latest Gaga track with us by bumping our phones together, we'll be goners.

[Images courtesy MobileWaytoPay, iFixIt; forecast data by IHS iSuppli]

Apple files motion to intervene in Lodsys patent lawsuit

Posted: 10 Jun 2011 08:39 AM PDT

Apple's already made its position on the whole Lodsys situation pretty clear, and it's now taken things one step further after the patent holder hit iOS developers with a lawsuit at the end of last month. As noted by Florian Mueller of FOSS Patents, Apple has filed a motion to intervene in the case, and he says Apple is "fairly likely" to be admitted as an intervener based on precedent. In the case that happens, Apple has also concurrently filed its answer to the complaint and its counterclaim, which unsurprisingly line up with its earlier position on the matter: that Apple has already licensed the patents in question on the developers' behalf, and that they are "entitled to use this technology free from any infringement claims by Lodsys." Hit the source link below for the complete filing, along with FOSS Patents' analysis of it.

Redsn0w 0.9.8b1 released for Mac, brings tethered jailbreak to iOS 5

Posted: 10 Jun 2011 08:17 AM PDT

Your patience has paid off. The planet's first openly accessible jailbreak is now available for those who've taken the plunge with iOS 5 (beta), and if you just can't go another day without access to Cydia, well... you don't have to. Redsn0w 0.9.8b1 has been released for Mac users, but given that it's a tethered solution, you'll have to plug 'er back into your machine each time you need to reboot. We'd encourage you to wait for the inevitable untethered alternative, but those who aren't having any of that "listening to your elders" hoopla can hop on down to the source link.

AT&T bringing WiFi to 20 NYC parks, Weiner envisions all new places to tweet from

Posted: 10 Jun 2011 08:00 AM PDT

For better or worse, AT&T's hampered 3G blanket in New York City may indeed save you from sending out a few tweets that would be better off unsent, but thanks to this new initiative, it looks like you'll have far more opportunities to make illogical decisions with your Twitter application of choice. This week, Mayor Bloomberg and AT&T head honcho Randall Stephenson rolled out a five year plan to provide gratis WiFi at 26 locations in in 20 New York City parks across the five boroughs, meaning that you'll no longer have to slog through Times Square just to get a few free bytes. As of this very moment in time, free AT&T WiFi is available to users at Battery Bosque in Battery Park, the north-end playground in Joyce Kilmer Park in the Bronx, and around the recreation center at Thomas Jefferson Park in East Harlem, with 23 additional park locations to follow throughout the summer.

Back at D9, Ralph de la Vega made it clear that the company was spending countless hours on 3G handoff methods as a way to offload some of the strain on its cellular networks, and sure enough, those with "select" AT&T smartphones will be able to seamlessly switch over without even touching a thing. Thankfully, it's also free for folks on other carriers (or no carrier at all), with a NSFW filter being applied only to parks located in the 9th district. Or, so we're told.
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MAYOR BLOOMBERG AND AT&T CHAIRMAN AND CEO RANDALL STEPHENSON LAUNCH FREE Wi-Fi SERVICE IN 20 NEW YORK CITY PARKS

AT&T Will Install and Maintain Free Wi-Fi Service in Parks in All Five Boroughs This Summer at No Cost to Taxpayers

Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg and AT&T Chairman and CEO Randall Stephenson today announced a five-year initiative to provide free Wi-Fi service at 26 locations in 20 New York City parks across the five boroughs. Starting today, AT&T Wi-Fi is available free of charge to any users at Battery Bosque in Battery Park, the north-end playground in Joyce Kilmer Park in the Bronx, and around the recreation center at Thomas Jefferson Park in East Harlem, with 23 additional park locations to follow throughout the summer. New Yorkers will be able to stay connected with their laptop computers, smartphones, tablets and other Wi-Fi enabled devices as they enjoy everything City parks, big and small, have to offer. The initiative advances some of the goals of Road Map for the Digital City, the City's comprehensive strategy to make New York the nation's leading digital city. Mayor Bloomberg and Stephenson made the announcement in Thomas Jefferson Park in East Harlem, where they were joined by State Senator José M. Serrano, Assembly Member Robert J. Rodriguez, Council Members Fernando Cabrera and Melissa Mark-Viverito and Chief Digital Officer Rachel Sterne.

"In May, we laid out a strategy to make New York City the nation's leading digital city, and AT&T's generous initiative to bring Wi-Fi to 20 City parks will help us get there," said Mayor Bloomberg. "New York City has the greatest network of public parks in the world, and we've invested heavily to expand and enhance them. Now, thanks to the terrific corporate citizenship of AT&T, they will provide an even better experience for New Yorkers and visitors."

"We're pleased to join Mayor Bloomberg and the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation to bring the convenience and benefits of Wi-Fi to many of the city's world-renowned parks," said Stephenson. "AT&T is committed to providing the best network and best broadband experience in New York City."

The 20 parks are:

Bronx: Joyce Kilmer Park, Bronx River Park and Devoe Park

Brooklyn: Brooklyn Bridge Park, Fort Greene Park, Herbert Von King Park, McCarren Park and Prospect Park

Manhattan: Battery Park, Thomas Jefferson Park, Central Park (multiple locations), the High Line, Holcombe Rucker Park, Marcus Garvey Park and Tompkins Square Park

Queens: Astoria Park, Flushing Meadows Corona Park and MacDonald Park

Staten Island: Clove Lake Park and South Beach

Wi-Fi provides fast connection to the internet from portable devices. AT&T Wi-Fi at City parks will be free for all users. From most AT&T smartphones and devices, customers will be able to automatically connect and switch seamlessly between AT&T's Wi-Fi and wireless networks. Virtually all new AT&T smartphones come equipped with Wi-Fi technology, and Wi-Fi use doesn't count toward customers' smartphone data plans.

"The Parks Department is pleased to partner with AT&T to bring free Wi-Fi access to parks in all five boroughs of New York City," said Parks & Recreation Commissioner Adrian Benepe. "Park visitors will now have more options to surf the net while enjoying the great outdoors of New York City's open spaces."

"Today we mark the latest milestone in the City's strategy to expand public Internet access across the five boroughs through a range of innovative partnerships," said Information Technology and Telecommunications Commissioner Carole Post. "By providing a geographically-diverse, sustainable technology solution for New Yorkers – at no cost to them – we're helping keep our parks and public spaces connected in a high-speed age."

"The addition of Wi-Fi to parks across the city, specifically Thomas Jefferson Park, will give people the opportunity to experience internet access that they may otherwise not have had, making things like job searching an easier endeavor for many local residents," State Senator Serrano. "Providing wireless internet free of charge will also give New Yorkers a fresh incentive to spend more time outdoors this summer. I commend Mayor Bloomberg and AT&T for launching a program that will surely be embraced and utilized by New Yorkers citywide."

"AT&T's launching of free of charge internet service to Jefferson Park is a remarkable step in bridging the digital divide in low-income communities," said Assembly Member Rodriguez.



"Access to the internet is no longer a luxury in our society, it has often times become a necessity," said Council Member Cabrera, who chairs the Council Technology Committee. "Internet access is a critical developmental tool for children, families, and community groups-all of whom use our city parks on a regular basis. I'm excited to see AT&T investing in an effort to bring the Internet to many who need it, and I look forward to a day of expanded Wi-Fi coverage for park goers in our City."

"I am proud that this new initiative to expand free Wi-Fi access in our parks is launching here in El Barrio/East Harlem," said Council Member Mark-Viverito. "Free Wi-Fi will provide an opportunity to gain internet access for local residents in my community who might not otherwise be able to afford an internet connection in their homes. I thank the Mayor, Commissioner Benepe and all others involved for working to arrive at this agreement with AT&T."

The AT&T initiative advances some of the goals of Road Map for the Digital City, the comprehensive strategy to make New York the nation's leading digital city that Mayor Bloomberg unveiled in May 2011. The plan seeks to increase New Yorkers access to digital technology by introducing Wi-Fi in more parks and public spaces through private sector partnerships like the new one with AT&T, target high needs individuals through federally funded programs, launch outreach and education efforts to increase broadband Internet adoption, and support more broadband choices citywide.

"Mayor Bloomberg has made it a priority to connect more New Yorkers, in more places, to the information they need," said Rachel Sterne. "We will continue to explore innovative ways to bring Internet access to New Yorkers, and we applaud AT&T on this forward-thinking initiative."

In addition to New York City parks, AT&T offers Wi-Fi hotspots and hotzones across the city. New York City Times Square was the site of the very first AT&T Wi-Fi hotzone, and AT&T has added hotzones near Rockefeller Center, near St. Patrick's Cathedral, along Park Avenue and near Ed Sullivan Theater. AT&T Wi-Fi hotzones supplement mobile broadband coverage in areas with consistently high traffic. AT&T is also providing free Wi-Fi for attendees at this year's HARLEM WEEK Celebrations, held July 31-Aug. 31, in alliance with the Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce.

AT&T operates more than 24,000 AT&T Wi-Fi hotspots at restaurants, hotels, bookstores and retailers, including more than 460 hotspot locations in the New York metropolitan area. For more information on AT&T Wi-Fi locations and instructions on how to connect, visit AT&T Wi-Fi Access.

Japanese ball drone knows how to make an entrance (video)

Posted: 10 Jun 2011 07:39 AM PDT

Japan's Ministry of Defense is pretty good at its hovering drones, but we're not entirely convinced that this one will be fit for purpose. The RC reconnaissance scout reminds us of a spherical Iain M. Banks Culture drone, which is neat, except that this one's more conspicuous, dies after just eight minutes and was constructed not by an intergalactic artificial consciousness, but by a bunch of geeks who went foraging for parts in Akihabara. Nevertheless, it can do 40MPH and is surprisingly agile, as you'll see in the video -- watch out for the kissogram moment.

E3 2011 wrap-up: Wii U, PS Vita, and a whole lot of motion gaming

Posted: 10 Jun 2011 07:07 AM PDT

E3 2011 wrap-up: Wii U, PS Vita, and a whole lot of motion gaming
This year's Electronics Entertainment Expo was pretty amazing, featuring plenty of fresh new hardware and some... innovative titles for serious consoles. Sony renamed its NGP to PlayStation Vita, while Nintendo unveiled its Wii successor, designated only by an extra vowel: U. Despite the (now even more) goofy name, the Wii U stole the show, its 6.2-inch touchscreen controller opening the door to a world of potentially awesome games -- and to what will surely be a whole new generation of shovelware. The show may be over, but the our coverage still burns -- just like our hearts after one last night at Daikokuya.

Liveblogs Major announcements
Impressions
But that's only the beginning! Be sure to check out our E3 2011 event page for the full suite of news.

Volvo kicks off C30 Electric production for 2012 delivery, promises V60 plug-in hybrid for the US later

Posted: 10 Jun 2011 06:20 AM PDT

Not enough electric vehicles in the market, you say? Well, at least there'll be a new candidate rolling out from Volvo next year. Earlier this week, the car maker announced that it's just started producing the C30 Electric (as test-driven by us back in March), the task of which is split between the company's Belgium and Swedish plants. If all goes well, Volvo will deliver 250 or more units to leasing customers across Europe (Sweden, Belgium, the Netherlands and Norway) by the end of 2012. There's no word on US availability for this petrol-free ride, but Volvo will instead be offering the more powerful V60 plug-in hybrid to its American friends in 2013 or 2014. Patience is a virtue, dear friends.

BlackBerry PlayBook rolling out internationally over the next month

Posted: 10 Jun 2011 05:44 AM PDT

Here in the US and Canada, we're already worrying about things like recalls, while the rest of world is still waiting for its crack at the original BlackBerry PlayBook. RIM today announced that its enterprise-friendly tablet will be hitting 16 more markets over the next 30 days -- though some of the locations, like the UK, have already been announced (you guys will be getting the thing in a mere six days). Recipients include Hong Kong, India, and Australia -- check out the full list in the form of a press release after the break. And when you're done let's start talking next-generation specs.
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BlackBerry PlayBook Launching In 16 Additional Markets Over Next 30 Days

Waterloo, ON - Research In Motion (RIM) (NASDAQ: RIMM; TSX: RIM) today announced plans to launch the BlackBerry® PlayBook™ tablet in an additional 16 markets around the world over the next 30 days.

The BlackBerry PlayBook is scheduled to launch in:

UK
Netherlands
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Hong Kong
Australia
Venezuela
Spain
Germany
UAE
Singapore
Mexico
France
Italy
India
Indonesia
Colombia

The BlackBerry PlayBook is the world's first professional-grade tablet, delivering industry leading performance, uncompromised web browsing, true multitasking, HD multimedia, advanced security features, out-of-the-box enterprise support and a robust development environment.

For more information about the BlackBerry PlayBook please visit: http://www.blackberry.com/playbook.

Developers interested in creating apps for the BlackBerry PlayBook can get more information at: http://us.blackberry.com/developers/tablet/.

Google Voice lets you change your digits, keep the old ones for $20

Posted: 10 Jun 2011 05:21 AM PDT


Remember when Google Voice assigned a number to your account with no option to port or integrate with Sprint? Oh how much simpler things were way back in Q1. When those new features first popped up, you were given a 90-day grace period to receive calls and texts to your old number after making a change. Now you can port, integrate, or just flat-out replace your number without sacrificing those old digits. After making the switch, head to the Settings tab in GV, then click "make permanent" within 90 days to keep the old number. You'll be billed for a one-time $20 "administration charge" (hey, computers need to get paid, too), but you'll forever be able to receive calls and texts sent to both, though outgoing calls and texts will only appear to be coming from the replacement -- so you'll still need to give your contacts a heads up after making the swap. We're always happy to see Google Voice add new features -- especially when they actually work -- so if you're ready to try your hand at phone number polygamy, get that credit card out and head over to GV.

[Thanks, Liam]

Samsung's Galaxy Tab 8.9 troubled by screen issues, chubbier version the result?

Posted: 10 Jun 2011 04:39 AM PDT

Everyone 'round here knows that Samsung has a lusty 10.1- and premature 7-inch version of its Galaxy Tab tablet. But we've heard nary a peep from Samsung about that $469 8.9-incher announced alongside its bigger, just-as-thin sibling back in March. We might know why. According to Korean news site Etnews, Samsung is having trouble getting it to market due to low yields of the 8.9's G1F touch-panel which uses one less film layer than conventional GFF (glass fiber filter) panels. This G1F architecture is behind Samsung's Super Clear LCD which you'll find on Sammy's own Galaxy Player, (Russian) Nexus S, and Wave II handsets. Etnews claims that Samsung will offset the G1F shortfall with GFF-type touch panels that are 30 - 40 percent thicker and dimmer, thanks to the extra layer. If true then we have one question: which regions will get the chunkier Galaxy Tab 8.9 when if finally does launch this summer?

Smug alert: Google says it has largest corporate EV charging network in the US (video)

Posted: 10 Jun 2011 04:10 AM PDT

Things are just getting greener and greener over at Google. Yesterday, the company triumphantly declared that its Mountain View campus now boasts the largest corporate EV charging network in the US, with some 200 chargers currently in place, plus an extra 250 that are on the way. It's all part of El Goog's RechargeIt sustainability initiative, launched in 2007, which has also given rise to the Gfleet -- a set of company-owned plug-ins made available for employees. Now that Google has purchased some extra Chevy Volts and Nissan Leafs, this Gfleet will eventually expand to include a total of 30 EVs, which explains the expansion of its ChargePoint Network. The ultimate goal is to have charging stations at five percent of Mountain View's parking spaces, all of which will be searchable on Google Maps, and available for employees to use for free. The company hopes this initiative will encourage more people to purchase EVs, and estimates that it'll eventually save a total of 5,400 tonnes of CO2 per year -- the equivalent to removing about 2,000 cars from the road. Head past the break for a video on the program, or hit up the source link if you'd like to help Google pat itself on the back.

Android Market web store now checks which apps are compatible with your devices

Posted: 10 Jun 2011 03:27 AM PDT

Google has already made some tough moves to tackle fragmentation, but it's clearly still wary of the problem. It's just tweaked the Android Market web store to show users which apps are compatible with which of their gadgets. Of course, compatibility screening was already in place for users who accessed the Market from within their device, but this update should still be of use to those who surf the web store, especially if they're rocking multiple handsets or a phone-plus-tablet combo.

VLT Survey Telescope snaps out-of-this-world photos with 268-megapixel camera

Posted: 10 Jun 2011 02:40 AM PDT

The European Southern Observatory (ESO) has just released the first batch of shots taken by its VLT Survey Telescope (VST), and, given the results, we'd say the thing's got a bright future in photography. Not to be mistaken for its cousin, the VLT (very large telescope), the VST sports a 268-megapixel camera, known as the OmegaCAM, and a field of view "twice as broad as the full moon." The images released by the ESO feature the Omega Nebula (located in the Sagittarius constellation) and Omega Centauri in stellar detail. Annie Lebovitz, eat your heart out -- the rest of you hop on past the break for another shot by this up and coming shutterbug.

Bird Electron EP-15V charges your MacBook Air from eight C-type batteries

Posted: 10 Jun 2011 02:02 AM PDT

Remember those thick C-type batteries you used to toss in your flashlights before the age of LEDs? Well, they're not likely to overtake the disposable battery market anytime soon, but they did just become slightly more useful to a very select number of Japanese MacBook Air owners. The EP-15V from Bird Electron will bridge eight of those C batts to create a 12-volt power source, giving your 11.6-inch MacBook Air a two-hour boost when used with standard alkaline batteries. The charger was released today in Japan, and will initially sell for ¥19,800 (about $250), not including batteries or the requisite MagSafe Airline Adapter (¥5,800, or about $75 in Japan). The EP-15V isn't likely to be the most practical option, considering its cost, size, weight (2.3 pounds, or just over 1 kilogram -- before you add batts), and the fact that you'll need access to an adapter and eight batteries, which you'll be tossing after just two hours of use. But if you find yourself in a remote village with a hearty C-type battery supply and no electricity or access to the sun, then you might just regret not picking one up.

Microsoft releases Android developer poaching package for Windows Phone 7

Posted: 10 Jun 2011 01:14 AM PDT

Microsoft's App Guy has quite a job on his baby-soft hands: to boost Windows Phone 7's numerically-challenged Marketplace by encouraging developers to port apps across from other platforms. The little fellow helped iPhone devs out a couple of months ago with an API mapping tool to make it easier to translate iPhone APIs to WP7 code. Now he's extended the mapping tool to work with Android APIs too, and backed it up with a 90-page white paper and a promise to get more involved in developer forums. Will the App Guy's efforts unleash a flood of new apps for Windows Phone? We don't know, but we dig his shorts.

Conductive nanocoating could lead to flexible, wearable devices, Lady Gaga sticks with meat suit

Posted: 10 Jun 2011 12:32 AM PDT

Flexible is the new rigid in the gadget world, from OLED panels and e-paper displays to, of course, the adorable PaperPhone. Now researchers at North Carolina State University are hoping to take flexible to the next level by applying a conductive nanocoating – thousands of times thinner than a human hair – to ordinary textiles. Their technique, called atomic layer deposition, grows an inorganic coating atop cloths like woven cotton. The treated fabric conducts electricity, opening the door to thin, wearable devices with the flexibility of everyday clothing. The technology's still in its nano-infancy, but who knows: maybe a few years from now you'll be sporting a genuinely playable Angry Birds shirt.

SteelSeries Diablo III headset and mouse: demon slaying flair for your skull and desktop

Posted: 09 Jun 2011 11:29 PM PDT

Sure, there are plenty of great gaming goodies to be found on the floor at E3, but some of the best stuff is much harder to find. For example, SteelSeries' new Diablo III Mouse and headset, which were revealed to us when the prototype devices were pulled from a backpack. The headset packs the same 50mm drivers, retractable boom mic, and overhead suspension design of its Siberia V2 stablemate, but adds some sinister-looking design tweaks. These cans come murdered out in matte black with lava red accents (which can be turned off) courtesy of 18 LEDs, plus matching red external speaker grilles. There's also a braided cord that plugs into your Mac or PC via USB.
SteelSeries Diablo III headset

We got to see the Diablo III mouse as well, and found it sports an ambidextrous design similar to the SteelSeries Xai. Its inky exterior is cloaked in smooth, soft touch plastic sporting silvery tribal accents, and a glowing ember Diablo III logo and trim around the scroll-wheel. Given Diablo's click-happy gameplay, Steelseries gave the mouse beefy Omron switches that are good for 10 million presses (which are backed by a five year warranty). All those clicks are tracked by custom driver software that also lets users tailor the pointer's button layout by dragging and dropping character-specific commands to the button of your choosing. Now that your appetite has been whetted with the design descriptions, here are the details that matter most: the mouse will cost $69 and the headset $119 when SteelSeries starts selling 'em at BlizzCon in October.
SteelSeries Diablo III mouse
Show full PR text
STEELSERIES ANNOUNCES FAMILY OF EXCLUSIVE DIABLO® III PERIPHERALS, CO-DESIGNED WITH BLIZZARD ENTERTAINMENT

The New Diablo® III Mouse and Headset Feature "Demon Red" Illuminated Designs and Technology Specifically Tailored for this Mouse-Intensive, Dark Fantasy Game

LOS ANGELES – E3 – JUNE 6, 2011 – As the game industry waits for E3 to kick off this week, SteelSeries, a leading manufacturer of professional gaming peripherals today announced a co-branding partnership with Blizzard Entertainment on the SteelSeries Diablo® III family of products. The Diablo III Mouse, Diablo III Headset, and two Diablo III QcK mousepads - Witch Doctor and Barbarian Editions, were co-designed with technology, hardware, and illumination features that support the look and feel of the third installment of Blizzard Entertainment's highly anticipated, mouse-intensive Diablo series.

"The level of excitement for the Diablo III release is massive. When the opportunity was presented to partner up with Blizzard for a new family of co-branded peripherals, we knew that they had to be engineered for this particular type of gameplay by being both durable and able to bring out the Diablo III theme onto a player's desktop," said Kim Rom, SteelSeries CMO. "The mouse offers both simplicity for new players and unprecedented durability that will support the series' distinctive mouse-driven gameplay, while the headset optimizes the high, spine-chilling snarls of otherworldly creatures and the booming lows of a barbarian battle cry. Together, the headset and mouse will help immerse players into the game through their extended comfort, compelling designs and high performance."

SteelSeries Diablo III Mouse
The fast-paced, dark fantasy world of Diablo III features high-velocity gameplay that benefits from quick response times and a weapon that will withstand the punishment of rapid clicks. The SteelSeries Diablo III Mouse features a laser sensor with up to 5,000 CPI, 7 ergonomically positioned buttons that can survive relentless punishment with a guaranteed lifespan of 10 million clicks - more than 3x the click lifespan of an average mouse. The mouse's ambidextrous shape and comfortable matte grip coating makes it a versatile option for all gaming grip styles.

In true Diablo III style, the SteelSeries mouse is enhanced with "demon red" illumination in 3 areas on the mouse – the scroll wheel, CPI Indicator, and Diablo III logo. You can also customize the logo with ON/OFF illumination and 3 levels of pulsation. While the mouse hardware was built for battle, including the double-braided nylon cord and gold-plated USB connection, the software and setting capabilities are easy to navigate through preloaded, SteelSeries Engine software. Compatible with both Mac® and PC, the software offers players a drag & drop Diablo III-themed interface with pre-defined skills and game commands. All 7 mouse buttons can also be quickly remapped for a personalized set-up. The SteelSeries Diablo® III Mouse's MSRP will be $69.99 / €69.99.

SteelSeries Diablo III Headset
Whether it's the faint clinks of loot dropping or the booming bass of demon spawn meeting their end, Diablo III is a game that must be heard. The SteelSeries Diablo III Headset has a lightweight, over-the-head suspension design that provides players with closed-type, leather earcups keeping the outside world out and the game sound in. Its earcups comfortably surround the ear and reproduce an optimized soundscape through 50mm driver units that are meant to immerse a player even further into the Burning Hells.

Its matte-black finish replicates the SteelSeries Diablo III Mouse theme by featuring a unique, knot-work design on the headband, together with "demon red" illumination. The first illuminated headset designed by SteelSeries, it will offer players ON/OFF illumination and 3 levels of pulsation options. Coming from a total of 18 LED lights throughout the headset, the red glow is seen in two places each on the right and left side - surrounding the edge of each ear cup, and the three Diablo slashes.

The headset will also include SteelSeries' signature, uni-directional retractable microphone-system for clear voice communication through Battle.net®. Its in-line volume and mute controls are found on a durable, double-braided nylon cord with a USB connector. For players looking for more control over their sound settings, the headset is also powered through SteelSeries Engine software, where they will find microphone volume and equalizer settings via an easy-to-navigate Diablo III interface. The Headset MSRP will be $119.99 / €119.99.

SteelSeries Diablo III Mousepads
To accompany the SteelSeries Diablo III Mouse, players can choose between two high-quality, cloth mousepad designs. The SteelSeries award-winning QcK mousepads have a non-slip rubber base to keep the mousepad from moving and an optimized texture surface featuring Diablo III artwork. The SteelSeries Diablo III QcK Barbarian Edition includes official character artwork of the barbarian class along with the deep reds and earthy tones associated with this brutal fighter. The SteelSeries Diablo III QcK Witch Doctor Edition summons the cooler, green and purple tones that are linked to this new and powerful summoning character. Each will have a $14.99 / €14.99 MSRP.

Available at game launch, the SteelSeries Diablo III family of products will be available online and in select retail locations. To catch hands-on previews of the new products, and news about all things SteelSeries and Diablo III check out http://steelseries.com/diablo3. Be sure to follow SteelSeries to stay up to date throughout E3 at http://steelseries.com as well as on Facebook, Twitter, and Tumblr.

Sanyo expands Eneloop battery offerings with Pro for more power, Plus for less heat

Posted: 09 Jun 2011 11:05 PM PDT

If you love Sanyo's ever-so-practical Eneloop rechargeable batteries, you'll be smitten with its two latest AA additions. First into the battery compartment is the 2400mAh Eneloop Pro; it's loaded with twenty-five percent more juice than the standard model, and is a perfect match for your power-draining Nikon Speedlight -- not quite as formidable as the 2,500mAh XX series, though. Moving onto the next slot is the Eneloop Plus, which adds a positive temperature coefficient thermistor -- a resistor that prevents the batts from reaching skin-scorching heat levels in kids' toys. Blazing Hello Kitty anyone? Both will come in packs of two or four, and also as bundles with a charger. Residents of Japan will be able to pick up the batteries at varying points this year, but aside from the ¥1,260 (about $15) Pro two-pack, pricing remains open. If your heart's beating like the pink bunny's drum, check out the source link below for the details and some fancy infographics.

BinCam posts photos of your trash on Facebook, shames you into recycling (video)

Posted: 09 Jun 2011 10:03 PM PDT

BinCam
We're not sure how comfortable we are with everyone online being able to examine our, as the Brits would say, "rubbish." But our friends across the pond are apparently ok with it, seeing as it's the home of BinCam -- a research project out of Newcastle University that posts pictures of people's trash on Facebook. At the heart of the experiment is an Xperia X10 Mini strapped under the lid of a garbage can that automatically snaps a photo every time it's opened and closed. That image is then uploaded to the BinCam Facebook app, where you're showered with public shame for failing to sort your recyclables or celebrated for not wasting food. And, just in case you think this is all an elaborate joke, check out the BBC report after the break the the study of how it affected student behavior at the source.

MOTOBLUR name phased out due to public feedback

Posted: 09 Jun 2011 08:58 PM PDT

The first rule of MOTOBLUR is do not talk about MOTOBLUR. Not in public at least. We got a bit of a mixed message on the matter, while discussing the newly announced Motorola Photon 4G with the company. Representatives mentioned the UI by name during our hands-on, but failed to discuss the proprietary Android skin in any press materials discussing the device. Asked what precisely is going on with the interface, a Motorola spokesperson confirmed CEO Sanjay Jha's earlier comments that the handset manufacturer is moving away from the name, adding that the decision was due in part to public feedback. Pieces of the UI's social functionality will remain present on devices, however, combined with more enterprise-focused features delivered as part of the company's purchase of 3LM. Of course, all of this not talking about MOTOBLUR certainly hasn't stopped the company from singing its praises.

Wi-Fi Sync developer says he was 'fairly shocked' by Apple's similar Wi-Fi Sync feature

Posted: 09 Jun 2011 07:44 PM PDT

Wirelessly syncing a smartphone is hardly a new idea, but the developer of the Wi-Fi Sync app for iOS devices apparently thinks Apple's similar new feature in iOS 5 -- also called Wi-Fi Sync --is just a little too close to his for comfort. As you may recall, Greg Hughes submitted his "Wi-Fi Sync" app to Apple for App Store approval back in May of 2010 and was ultimately rejected, although not before he says he was told that Apple's engineers were "impressed" by his effort -- he then made the app available in the Cydia store, where it's been downloaded more than 50,000 times at $10 a pop. That was apparently working out just fine for him until this week, when he says he was "fairly shocked" to see Apple announce a Wi-Fi Sync feature of its own in iOS 5, complete with a familiar looking icon. Hughes went on to tell The Register that he was "surprised" by the similarities, but he hasn't offered any indication that he plans to push the issue any further.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Microsoft loses $290 million patent battle, begins searching couch cushions

Posted: 09 Jun 2011 06:43 PM PDT

We've diligently followed the Microsoft v. i4i Limited Partnership patent dispute as it wound its way through the courts, and now comes the day of reckoning: by a unanimous decision, the US Supreme Court has upheld the patent-infringement finding against Redmond. For those of you just catching up, MS had been taken to court by Toronto-based i4i over a portfolio of XML-related patents -- patents it had already offered to license to the software behemoth. In court, Microsoft claimed it had not infringed and that the patents were invalid; a 2009 Texas court disagreed and awarded $200 million in damages. A subsequent appeal failed. Oh, and the government sided with i4i. Today's Supreme Court verdict upholds the lower courts' decisions: Microsoft Word is an infringing product, and the company now owes $290 million. The finding likely won't affect consumers, as the offending versions of Word are now obsolete. Still, $290 million isn't chump change, even for the world's largest software company. There's probably a joke in here about i4i justice, but we'll be dadblasted if we can find it.

Xbox 360 Wireless Speed Wheel hands-on

Posted: 09 Jun 2011 05:58 PM PDT

Xbox 360 Wireless Speed Wheel hands-on
Okay, so the U-shaped contraption you see above won't get a motorsports enthusiast's blood boiling quite like the Fanatec CSR Elite wheel we tested earlier, but for a lot of gamers the CSR is a bit too much. The Xbox 360 Wireless Speed Wheel, on the other hand, is rather more manageable -- and affordable, with a $59.99 price. It's a simple, lightweight thing, with an over-sized trigger on the back of each grip. These have very low resistance, so they tend to clap against the back when you mash the throttle, but this plus a long throw means it's easy to be precise on the gas or brake. And that, of course, is what they're intended to be used for. On the right prong are the four face buttons, on the left a D-pad. Start and Back are in the middle along with the Guide button, but sadly the L and R shoulder buttons didn't make the start.

That's a mighty shame, making us wonder what compatibility will be like for racers that use those for up- and down-shifting. Regardless, with Forza Motorsport 4 the wheel works like a charm. There's an almost imperceptible amount of lag between you turning the thing in air and your reaction being conveyed on screen, but it's not a problem. The triggers feel great and, while shifting using the D-pad is a little clumsy, it works. Ultimately and predictably the Speed Wheel doesn't deliver the most hardcore of racing experiences, but it'll be a lot more couch-friendly than your average wheel and pedal setup when it ships this October.
Xbox 360 Wireless Speed Wheel

Adorable CanBot chills in your fridge, quietly biding its time (video)

Posted: 09 Jun 2011 05:16 PM PDT


What's the point of a robot disguised as a tank or, uh, a clothes dryer? If you really want to infiltrate human society, you need robots that can hide in plain sight. Thankfully for would-be robotic conquerors, Ron Tajima brings us the aptly named CanBot, which hides batteries, an embedded control board, and three RC-servo legs beneath its beer-can exterior. Tajimi controls it with a Wiimote, and in the video above you can see it walking and rolling. His son seems less than impressed, but he probably sees this stuff all the time. We're mightily excited, and look forward to picking up a six pack. Of robots.

[Thanks, Robotbling]

Netflix, Foursquare, LinkedIn, and Square apps expose your data

Posted: 09 Jun 2011 04:38 PM PDT

Failsquare

Here's a little tip for app developers: encrypt everything, especially passwords. Security firm viaForensics fed some popular iPhone and Android apps through its appWatchdog tool and found that Netflix, LinkedIn, and Foursquare all stored account passwords unencrypted. Since the results were first published on the 6th, Foursquare has updated its app to obscure users' passwords, but other data (such as search history) is still vulnerable. While those three were the worst offenders, other apps also earned a big fat "fail," such as the iOS edition of Square which stores signatures, transaction amounts, and the last four digits of credit card numbers unencrypted. Most of this data would take some effort to steal, but it's not impossible for a bunch of ne'er-do-wells to create a piece malware that can harvest it. Let's just hope Netflix and LinkedIn patch this hole quickly -- last thing we need is someone discovering our secret obsession with Meg Ryan movies.

Kudo Tsunoda doesn't tell us a thing about Windows 8 support for Kinect

Posted: 09 Jun 2011 04:04 PM PDT

Microsoft asked us to drop by at E3 to chat up a generically identified "Xbox executive," imagine our surprise when we found Kudo Tsunoda hiding behind door number six. Wearing his signature shades, Kudo gave us a brief primer on what makes Kinect great, or at least a heavy endorsement of Kinect Fun Labs. While we can certainly dig the bit-sized gadgetry Fun Labs has to offer, we like to dig deeper -- will the Kinect hardware ever be integrated into other devices? Any plans for Microsoft's 3D tracking camera and Windows 8? Kudo did his best to feed our ravenous appetite for answers.

It wasn't easy on poor Kudo, of course -- more than once we saw him glance longingly at his wrangler, a friendly PR rep keeping him from spilling the beans on anything too awesome. Probing about Windows 8 and Kinect produced one such look, and while our man very lightly suggested that Microsoft does more than games -- and that the dual-camera device might start showing up on other devices -- the big M had nothing to announce at that time. Kudo did go on to say, however, that we can expect to see new, innovative, "oh my gosh, I can't believe Kinect can do that" experiences at E3 year after year, citing this year's keynote for some recent examples. While we couldn't coax any leaks about Xbox or Kinect successors out of the man, it's good to see Microsoft's continued dedication to improving the platform.

Nox Audio Admiral Touch prototype preview redux: now with more clever ideas and some bass

Posted: 09 Jun 2011 03:32 PM PDT

It's been fully six months since Nox Audio's everything-but-the-kitchen-sink Admiral Touch headset prototype wowed us at CES 2011, and boy, have things changed. That ugly metal band is gone, replaced by a handsome black and silver rig, with a neatly integrated adjusting strap for a comfortable noggin squeeze. Both sides of the Admiral Touch now sport buttons, including one to add the T-Pain Effect (we kid you not). More after the break.
Nox Audio Admiral and Admiral Touch at E3 2011

There's a new dial to adjust the mix between the Bluetooth and 2.4GHz audio channels on the fly, a resistive touchscreen and Samsung S3C6410 ARM11 chip that'll eventually run Android 2.3, and an optional Bluetooth dongle that can pipe in Xbox Live voice chat from your game controller -- or dock with the revamped base station to add PC audio. If the Nox designers get their way, you'll even be able to rotate the pull-out microphone to mute it, or tap a key to pipe in ambient audio so you don't miss any of your roommate's hilarious jokes about the touchscreen attached to your ear. But the biggest change to be found in the only Android-equipped wireless noise-canceling virtual surround sound gaming headset the world has seen is this: vastly different audio quality.

Last time, the Admiral had nice clear mids, though the bass was hard to find, so Nox replaced a
pair of transducers, tweaked the virtual 7.1 (Pro Logic IIx + Dolby Headphone 2) mix, and added an optional bass boost to compensate. We definitely appreciated that extra ooomph for movie explosions and the like, but we're sorry to say those clear mids were seemingly sacrificed in the quest for bigger booms -- the slightly muddier mix made it difficult to identify individual instruments and directional audio cues even in Nox's enclosed audio booth. Nox dreams big, and we're hoping the company can pull it all off; the base Admiral is slated to ship in Q4, and the Touch module and bundle early next year.

Xfinity Home Security makes home monitoring and management Comcastic (video)

Posted: 09 Jun 2011 03:01 PM PDT

It looks like Comcast's trial bubble has been something of a success, and now the company is announcing that its Xfinity Home Security Service will be branching out beyond Houston to arm alarms, dim lamps and keep home automation freaks appraised of sports scores in an additional six markets (including Philadelphia, Portland, Jacksonville, Sarasota/Naples, Chattanooga and Nashville). Powered by iControl Networks' Open Home automation and security platform, packages start at $40 a month and feature live video monitoring, lighting and climate control, burglar and fire alarm monitoring, and more -- via touchscreen interface, web portal, and iPhone app. Now you too can put your family's safety in the same hands that bring Gilligan's Island into your home! Video, PR-palooza after the break.


Show full PR text
Comcast Helps Power the Digital Home with New Xfinity Home Security Service
Broadband-Based System Enables Customers to Remotely Monitor Their Home and Control Digital Thermostats and Lights in Real Time

Available Today in Several Market Areas Including Philadelphia, Houston, Portland and Jacksonville with Additional Markets Launching Before End of the Year

Press Release Source: Comcast Corporation On Wednesday June 8, 2011, 10:00 am EDT
PHILADELPHIA--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq:CMCSA - News), one of the nation's leading providers of entertainment, information, and communications products and services, today announced it has expanded its new home security business into six additional U.S. market areas. Xfinity Home Security offers traditional home security components, like police and fire alarm protection backed by 24/7 professional monitoring, as well as the ability to adjust digital thermostats, turn lights on or off and watch secure live streaming video from wireless cameras while away from home. The service also comes with a new Xfinity Security app, which is available for free on Apple's iTunes App Store®.

"Xfinity Home Security brings digital home monitoring to a new level," said Mitch Bowling, Senior Vice President and General Manager of New Businesses for Comcast Cable. "It comes with a range of broadband-based technologies that empower customers to stay better connected to their home virtually anytime, anywhere."

Xfinity Home Security offers consumers the ability to create personalized settings that can do things like provide real-time e-mail or text alerts when doors open or close or when motion detectors report activity occurring inside or outside of the home. In addition, the service comes with a tablet-like touch screen with a menu of widgets that allow access to the latest weather, news, traffic, and sports scores.

In addition to 24/7 professional monitoring, Xfinity Home Security provides customers the ability to:

watch live streaming video of their home via video wireless video cameras;
access security controls remotely via a Web portal or the Xfinity Security app for the iPhone;
manage home utilities like digital thermostats and lights;
have more peace of mind since both battery and cellular backup helps ensure customers remain fully protected even in the event of a power outage;
access features from some of Comcast's existing services. For example, an Xfinity Voice customer could listen to a voicemail through an app on the security interface.
Today, Comcast is selling the Xfinity Home Security Preferred Package for as low as $39.95 per month. Xfinity Home Security customers will also be eligible to receive up to a 20 percent discount on their homeowners' insurance. Visit www.xfinity.com/homesecurity for more information on pricing, equipment and additional features.

The service was first unveiled in Houston in mid 2010 and is now being rolled out in parts of Philadelphia, Portland, Jacksonville, Sarasota/Naples, Chattanooga and Nashville. Additional markets will be introduced on a rolling basis.

iControl Networks Powers Comcast's XFINITY® Home Security Service

First Broadband Service Provider Introduces New National Service Based on iControl's OpenHome™ Software Platform

PALO ALTO, Calif., June 9, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- iControl Networks, a leader in broadband home management, today announced its OpenHome™ software platform is powering Comcast's XFINITY Home Security service.

Comcast's XFINITY Home Security service provides intrusion and fire protection in addition to a host of interactive features including home monitoring, home management and energy management services, with the added benefits of web and mobile access.

"Comcast is the first national broadband service provider to launch iControl's software platform, bringing greater peace-of-mind to millions of homeowners who can now know that their homes and families are protected whether they're home or away," said Jim Johnson, co-CEO of iControl. "This is a momentous day for iControl and we are very excited to be a part of Comcast's initiative."

XFINITY includes an interactive, easy-to-use touch screen security panel that has been certified to meet UL standards for dual-mode broadband and cellular connectivity to the Central Monitoring Station. Other features and equipment include extended battery backup, video monitoring, lighting control, custom text and email alerts, 24/7 monitoring, thermostat control and remote arm/disarm.

"Consumers have responded enthusiastically to early market deployments of XFINITY Home Security service," said Mitch Bowling, Senior Vice President and General Manager of New Businesses for Comcast. "We're thrilled to be adding another value-added service to the XFINITY bundle and we're confident that this next generation solution will be of great interest to our customers."

About iControl Networks

iControl Networks is a venture-backed software and services company providing interactive solutions defining the broadband home management market. The iControl OpenHome™ Software Platform, an award-winning software solution that has made the Connected Home a reality, enables home security companies, broadband service providers and utilities to offer the next generation of home management, security and connectivity to their customers. Investors in iControl include ADT, Charles River Ventures, Cisco, Comcast Interactive Capital, GE Security, Intel Capital and the Kleiner Perkins Caufield and Byers iFund. For more information, visit www.icontrol.com.

About Comcast Corporation

Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA, CMCSK) (www.comcast.com) is one of the nation's leading providers of entertainment, information and communications products and services. Comcast is principally involved in the operation of cable systems through Comcast Cable and in the development, production and distribution of entertainment, news, sports and other content for global audiences through NBCUniversal. Comcast Cable is one of the nation's largest video, high-speed Internet and phone providers to residential and business customers. Comcast is the majority owner and manager of NBCUniversal, which owns and operates entertainment and news cable networks, the NBC and Telemundo broadcast networks, local television station groups, television production operations, a major motion picture company and theme parks.

SOURCE iControl Networks

Deadmund does it right: PlayStation Move and 1:1 swordplay, hands-on (video)

Posted: 09 Jun 2011 02:26 PM PDT

Medieval Moves: Deadmund's Quest may be built on the mini-game mechanics of last year's Sports Champions, but its whole is greater than the sum of its parts. We hit up Sony at E3 2011 to see if Deadmund could out-fence the Jedi in a duel of 1:1 swordplay and on-rails battle. What we found was surprisingly responsive. Deadmund himself runs on a pre-set path, plodding his way through a skeleton-filled barracks automatically. Deadmund's on-screen sword matched our wand-equipped wrist's every move, accurately slicing skeletor wannabes any way we saw fit. Reaching behind our back with the Move controller let us pull a virtual arrow from a quiver, or we could choose to dispatch baddies by flinging throwing stars.

If the on-screen slashfest lagged behind our physical slicing in any significant way, we didn't notice -- we were too busy loving the Move's speedy response time. Faster swings produced "stronger" in-game sword attacks, or farther flying shurikens. Last year at E3, we accused the PlayStation Move of just skirting outside of gimmick-land, but it's hard to argue with 1:1 motion control this responsive. Will Deadmund move Sony's motion lollypop to the front of the gesture control race? Probably not on his own, but it's still great to see this tech at its best. Check out our hands-on playthrough video after the break to see the action for yourself.


Sean Hollister contributed to this report.

Sony reveals midrange VPL-HW30ES 3D projector on the way next month (Update)

Posted: 09 Jun 2011 02:04 PM PDT

We all know you deserve to live the projector lifestyle, but fitting Sony's first home projector with 3D -- the $10k (MSRP) VPL-VW90ES that launched last fall -- into one's budget might be a little tough. Now the company is launching the "affordable" VPL-HW30ES for the rest of us this year, featuring some of the same 240Hz SXRD tech in a cheaper package. There's no word yet on pricing or a ship date here in the US, but it's confirmed shipping in Europe and Japan next month with a pricetag of 370,000 yen ($4,626 US) in the latter. That lower price nabs specs like a claimed 70,000:1 contrast ratio and 1,300 lumens of brightness and all the picture adjustment settings befitting a product rocking the Elevated Standard tag, along with an upgraded 3D system to reduce crosstalk. 3D compatibility is achieved with Sony's new lighter active shutter 3D glasses and an add-on IR sync device that are both sold separately -- no complex lens switching necessary.

Update: Sony sent over the us press release with pricing ($3,699 and other information, check it out here.


Show full PR text
Sony expands its groundbreaking 3D home projector range with the affordable VPL-HW30ES

9th June 2011



Basingstoke, UK, 9th June 2011: Sony has today announced it has expanded its range of market leading 3D home projectors with the new, more affordable, VPL-HW30ES. Incorporating Sony's latest lamp technology, dynamic lamp control system, movie fans have the opportunity to enjoy an unrivalled 3D cinematic experience, with stunning images that are three times as bright as Sony's first 3D home projector, the VPL-VW90ES.

In order to achieve an optimal movie experience which feels natural on the eye, the VPL-HW30ES is equipped with Sony's High Frame Rate SXRD Panel (1920ｘ1080), which helps to reproduce dramatically sharp and smooth motion and reduces the image motion blur for a crisper image (Motionflow) and deliver a dynamic contrast ratio of 70,000:1 and brightness of 1,300lm. In addition, "3D crosstalk" is significantly reduced thanks to the 240Hz SXRD panel drive system. The VPL-HW30ES is also capable of taking 2D video and simulating 3D images, bringing new life to classic movies from the past and allowing a wide variety of video content, such as live sports, to be enjoyed.

The VPL-HW30ES also enhances the customer viewing experience by enabling them to enjoy 3D and 2D pictures more comfortably. It has independent 2D/3D picture mode, which helps when you watch 2D and move on to watch 3D contents and you can watch the contents optimum picture image setting automatically. And the VPL-HW30ES runs very quietly with an advanced air discharge system by "22 db" which doesn't disturb the overall cinematic experience.

"The launch of the VPL-HW30ES demonstrates Sony's commitment to developing truly innovative products which allow more people than ever to experience 3D in their own living room," said Tak Nakane, product specialist at Sony Professional, Sony Europe. "Built using Sony's extensive 3D expertise, the VPL-HW30ES sets down a new benchmark for demanding movie-goers who want a high-end home cinema system at an affordable price."

The VPL-HW30ES is compatible with Sony's new active shutter glasses, the TDG-PJ1, which are 18 grams lighter than the previous model (59g compared to 77g). The TDG-PJ1 can be charged in 30 minutes to provide 30 hours of continuous watching. In conjunction with the new glasses, Sony has announced a new transmitter, the TMR-PJ1, which synchronises 3D content effortlessly to generate a high-quality natural 3D effect.

The VPL-HW30ES will be available across Europe in July 2011. The TDG-PJ1 and TMR-PJ1 are sold separately.

The Engadget Podcast, live at 5:00PM ET!

Posted: 09 Jun 2011 01:38 PM PDT

It's been another crazy week here at Engadget HQ, but we've managed to find enough time to regroup for another podcast -- well, assuming that the internet connection in Tim's LA hotel room holds up its end of the bargain. This week we're joined by Darren, who's fresh off of battling desert monsters and making one too many U2 references in Joshua Tree, CA. Topics of conversation? WWDC, E3, and any number of other esoteric letter-number combinations.




GE announces hybrid power plant of the (near) future

Posted: 09 Jun 2011 01:24 PM PDT

GE's legacy dates back over a century, but, despite its old age, the company's got a fresh outlook on the future of energy production (at least according to its PR department). Earlier this week, the outfit announced MetCap Energy Investments' plans to build a "first-of-its-kind" hybrid power plant, tapping GE's FlexEfficiency technology, which combines natural gas, wind, and solar thermal power. The plant, planned for completion in Turkey in 2015, will produce enough energy, according to GE, to power 600,000 homes, and could lead to plant efficiency greater than 70 percent. What's more, the company promises zero liquid discharge and single-button 28-minute startup. Here's hoping this cracks up to be a better fit than NBC. Full PR after the break.

Show full PR text
MetCap Energy Selects GE's New FlexEfficiency Technology for World's First Integrated Renewables Combined Cycle Power Plant

· Landmark Project will Enable more Wind, Solar and Natural Gas for Turkish Power Grid · GE Technology Enables Plant Efficiency Greater than 70 Percent through Unprecedented Integration with Wind and Solar · eSolar will Provide Integrated Solar Thermal Tower Technology

MILAN, ITALY-June 7, 2011-GE's (NYSE: GE) breakthrough FlexEfficiency* technology has been selected for an innovative new power plant being developed by MetCap Energy Investments, a Turkish project developer, the two companies announced today at POWER-GEN Europe 2011. The project will produce the world's first Integrated Renewables Combined Cycle[1] (IRCC) Power Plant.

By designing the plant from a total equipment and control systems perspective and utilizing the flexibility of GE's FlexEfficiency technology, engineers were able to seamlessly integrate natural gas, wind and solar thermal power. The FlexEfficiency 50 IRCC plant is designed for flexible operation by integrating a next-generation 50 Hz 9FB Gas Turbine, a steam turbine, a generator, 22 MW of GE wind turbines and 50 MW of eSolar concentrated solar thermal tower technology, all integrated by a GE Mark* VIe plant control system.

"When we recently announced our breakthrough FlexEfficiency technology, we talked about being able to better integrate renewables with natural gas to produce cleaner, more affordable and reliable power. This project combines two renewable technologies and natural gas in the same power plant and demonstrates the benefits it can offer to power the future grid. Integrated renewable combined cycle power represents a significant growth opportunity for GE Energy. At MetCap's site conditions, we will achieve 69 percent plant efficiency, and this technology provides the capability to deliver efficiency greater than 70 percent at Gas Turbine World conditions," said Paul Browning, president and CEO-thermal products for GE Energy.

"MetCap Energy is on the leading edge of power development and, with this project, they have set a new global standard for the efficient integration of natural gas and renewable energy. This is the first example of how our recent investment in eSolar will enable future growth opportunities for GE Energy, and we already are seeing a growing interest in the industry for this technology. It is another big step forward for GE's ecomagination initiative and is in lock-step with our commitment to create a cleaner, more affordable energy future," Browning added.

The power plant will be located in Karaman, Turkey, and will be rated at 530 megawatts at site conditions, which is enough energy to power more than 600,000 homes. It is scheduled to enter commercial operation in 2015. The engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) services will be provided by Gama Power Systems Engineering and Contracting, Inc.

Dr. Celal Metin, chairman of MetCap Energy Investments, said: "At MetCap Energy, we believe our projects must simultaneously meet the need for increased energy, environmental responsibility and economic growth, while preserving precious water resources. GE's FlexEfficiency technology was evaluated versus other state-of-the-art alternatives and was selected because it is best aligned with our vision for the future. In addition to record-setting fuel efficiency, this power plant will have zero liquid discharge, low emissions and a rapid-response, 28-minute start capability. It accomplishes this using an integrated controls system that provides single-button start for all of the elements of the IRCC power plant. And we've accomplished all of this with very attractive financial returns for our investment. We think this represents the future of power generation."

"GAMA is very excited to be involved in this first-of-a-kind integrated renewables combined cycle power plant together with GE. GAMA's name always has been attached to challenging projects, and we look forward to successfully completing another one where MetCap's decision to use leading-edge technology will ensure implementing many new innovations such as FlexEfficiency, zero liquid discharge, single button start and many more. We believe this project will set a standard for power generation investments where sunshine and wind is abundant in places like the Middle East," said Gökhan Ä°nanç, member of the Board of Directors and deputy managing director of Gama Power Systems.

"Since we started speaking with customers about the FlexEfficiency 50 technology last year, there has been great interest in the unique combination of flexibility and efficiency the plant can offer," said Ricardo Cordoba, president of GE Energy's Western European Region. "Now in just two short weeks, we have announced our first customer MetCap Energy, here in Europe. This technology breakthrough is being embraced by our customers, and it will transform the industry."

On June 6, GE announced an investment and licensing agreement with eSolar, a provider of next-generation concentrated solar thermal tower technology. Under the agreement, GE will license and incorporate eSolar technology and software into its IRCC and standalone solar thermal power plants.

"eSolar is proud to participate in this groundbreaking project, integrating our solar thermal tower technology with GE's wind and FlexEfficiency gas-fired technologies. A significant advantage of solar thermal tower technology versus other renewables is its ability to integrate with thermal power plants and thereby mitigate the challenges of intermittency caused by the weather-related variability of wind and sunshine. This is an exciting new application for us and is clear evidence that our new alliance with GE will generate significant growth potential for our business," said John Van Scoter, CEO and president of eSolar.

The FlexEfficiency 50 plant is the result of more than $500 million invested by GE in research and development to deliver cleaner, more efficient energy. GE also has announced a $170 million investment in a first-of-its-kind full speed full load test facility in Greenville, S.C., that will provide factory validation of its new technology. In addition to the agreements with MetCap Energy and eSolar, GE has signed a memorandum of understanding with Harbin Electric Co. Ltd. to support the introduction of FlexEfficiency in China. Harbin has been teaming with GE since 2003 to provide heavy duty gas turbines for projects in China.

Vodafone UK bids adieu to Galaxy Tab 10.1v, likes its slates skinny

Posted: 09 Jun 2011 01:00 PM PDT

Back in February, it looked like Vodafone UK was more than happy to get its hands on the original Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1v, but with the impending UK release of a younger, slimmer model, the carrier is giving the 10.1v the boot. According to some helpful tipsters, customers who showed early interest in the thicker version of the tablet have received an "important update" from Vodafone saying, "We've decided to add the slimmer Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 to our range, which will now take the place of the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1v." The landing page for the original 10.1 has also been removed from Vodafone's website. Looks like it's a sad day for our friends across the pond who like their tabs with a little extra cushion, not to mention an 8 megapixel camera.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Samsung and Acer Chromebooks now available for pre-order at Best Buy and Amazon

Posted: 09 Jun 2011 12:44 PM PDT

Some folks have already gotten their hands on a Samsung Series 5 Chromebook thanks to an early sale at Gilt, but everyone else can now finally get their order in at a couple of more traditional sources: Best Buy and Amazon. In addition Samsung's Chromebook (available in both white and silver starting at $430), that also includes Acer's Chrome OS-based offering, which is now known as the Acer Cromia and starts at $380 for the WiFi-only model. Neither retailer is quoting a ship date just yet, but Google's previously stated that they'll be rolling out on June 15th.

Sony's 24-inch PlayStation 3D 'dual-view' monitor: here's how it works

Posted: 09 Jun 2011 12:33 PM PDT

Sony's got some wonderful ideas here at E3 2011, but the company's left quite a few threads for journalists to sew up -- what's the battery life like? How much will continuous client gameplay cost? Just how does that split-screen 3D monitor work? Sony's 3D gaming czar Mick Hocking flew in from Liverpool to talk stereoscopy with the press, and we've got some answers for that last one. What you see above is an LCD panel that refreshes at 240Hz, and delivering 3D at 60 frames per second to each eye, by using the typical active shutter glasses technique of blocking light to your left eye when the "right" image is displayed, and vice versa for the right eye. However, the glasses have a special button that makes both lenses of one player's glasses display images for the left eye, and both lenses of another player display images for the right, allowing each to have their own 60fps feed all the time for private split-screen gaming.

While that potentially means you could use these glasses on non-Sony 3DTVs too and get the same effect (or, you know, just pick up a Sharp Quattron 3D or Vizio Versus, which do much the same thing). Hocking told us that this particular unit also does additional software processing to reduce ghosting. But what of games? The 3D guru said there'll be a number of titles supporting the feature when the monitor hits this fall, and that other 3D titles could potentially (and easily) be patched if they also support split-screen to begin with. Hocking says developer enthusiasm's been particularly intense for split-screen, even more so than the holographic and head-mounted display technologies that Sony's working on, and we may see the feature integrated in Bravia televisions should the idea take off.
at 11:48 AM

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