Sponsoer by :

Thursday, June 23, 2011

Engadget News

Sponsored

Engadget News

Prototype dual-screened 2-in-1 Android smartpad from Imerj preview

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 11:00 AM PDT

From the front it looks like yet another plain smartphone -- dark, nondescript, and maybe a little like an iPhone 4 that's had its right-most extent sliced off. Pick it up, though, and you realize this little thing isn't so nondescript. In fact, it feels oddly substantial, with a strange bevel cutting around the edge and a curious amount of heft. And then you flip it open. Suddenly it's a little tablet, two screens forming one 6-inch slate bisected by a few millimeters of bezel.

Shades of the Echo? Sure, but this is actually a very different device to hold, and a very different device to use. The software customizations built over Android 2.3, the bezel gestures, the proper multitasking, all make this into a unique device that feels incredibly familiar yet altogether different. It's a prototype device from Imerj and Frog (formerly known as Frog Design) something that's months away from production and hasn't even been blessed with a model designation more specific than "2-in-1 smartpad." So, is this poncho-clad Phone with No Name a legitimate threat to the established families of devices that own our little wireless San Miguel? Or, will it ride straight off into a sunset of obscurity when it launches? Read on to find out.
2-in-1 smartpad prototype from Imerj and Frog Design

Hardware


When you get a glimpse of the Imerj prototype from across the room, as we first did, it's hard not to think "Oh, it's another Kyocera Echo." It is, after all, a dual-screened smartphone with a hinge down the middle that brings two disparate displays together into one. However, Kyocera comparisons do this device a strong disservice.

First impression is one of heft and solidity. Each half of the device feels firm, dense, and the simple hinge in the middle doesn't click or give any sort of protestations at all as you fold or unfold the thing. When doubled over the two halves subtly pop together thanks to the wonders of magnets, but other than that it's a smooth trip out to fully extended. There's no mechanical assistance here.

Compared to the Echo, the hinge is simple and the device just folds in half. It's a little like opening a book backwards, which is unintuitive at first but ultimately feels reasonably natural. Want a simple phone? Give it a little fold and the second screen is disabled. Or, when you want to use it like a tablet, just grab it and pull the halves flat. If the device is locked it'll immediately pop to life when unfurled, bypassing the unlock screen and getting you right back to where you want to be.


When extended the device is actually quite thin -- just 7mm (.28-inches), and without any unsightly bulges or protrusions. When folded in half it's still thinner than the thickest extent of the Droid Charge, for example, or about 50 percent thicker than an iPhone 4. Unfolded, it's about the thinnest smartphone we've ever seen, and if you compare it to the spate of tablets it bests even the Galaxy Tab 10.1 by about a millimeter.

So it's impressively svelte, and for such an early device it's impressively constructed. The exterior is covered in what looks to be a thick coating of metallic paint that gives a classy look and a cool, smooth feel. Of course, half of it is covered in glass, not paint, and that's naturally of the Gorilla variety, edges mostly tucked behind the lip of the case.

Unfold the device and those two panes meet in the middle, sadly still divided by a couple millimeters of bezel on either side. It's an unfortunate gap inside what is otherwise a generously sized 6-inch unified display, and we're told this is about as good as we're going to get until foldable OLEDs come into play.

There's a lot of minimalist design going on here, with the subtly swoopy beveled edges interrupted by three buttons all on the upper left: power, volume rocker, and silence. On the far right edge (when opened) is a 3.5mm headphone jack, a little door hiding a SIM card, and a big, flat proprietary connector in the middle that could easily be mistaken for something with an Apple or a Samsung logo on it.

Displays


As smartphone users crave more screen real estate smartphone displays keep getting bigger and our pockets keep getting tighter. The solution here is, of course, to offer two rather more moderate-sized displays and combine them into an all-conquering mega-display. Each half is 4-inches of WVGA AMOLED, for a combined resolution of 800 x 960 and a combined diagonal of about 6-inches.

If we had to guess we'd say these are the same Samsung AMOLED panels found earlier in the Focus, which have some issues with color representation and in this deployment get increasingly cool the further off-axis your viewing angle becomes. Still, images are bright and vibrant.

Internals


Powering the works is a dual-core TI OMAP processor that will be running at an as of yet undisclosed speed, pending final discussions between TI and Imerj. But, expect it to be comparable to your average superphone (i.e. in the gigahertz range). There's 1GB of DDR3 RAM available for the hardware, while this model has 32GB of internal storage, which is not expandable via microSD. We're told models will be available with as much as 128GB of breathing room, which should give you an idea of the sort of premium market this device is targeting.

Performance in this prototype seems good but falls short of great. There's a good amount of lag here and there as you move between landscape and portrait, but of course we're dealing with a prototype; there's a long way to go before the software is final. That said, apps launch quickly and are smooth to work with.

A 1,750mAh battery gives it juice. It's neither user-accessible nor replaceable, but we expect that battery life should be comparable to other phones -- so long as you don't spend too much time in dual-screen mode, anyway. We weren't able to perform any proper battery life testing and, really, the hardware is too early to draw any conclusions there. But, we're told to expect longevity that will at least trump the Atrix.

Speaking of AT&T's hottest hunk of Android, this device is running on that provider's waves at the moment. Naturally nobody would commit to talk of which carrier would be carrying this device when it launches, it would seem that one or the other half of the proposed AT&T&T family would be a safe bet.

Software


Android supports comprehensive multitasking, letting you pop from Google Music to Angry Birds and back again with a few long-presses of the home button. But, this device takes that concept to a new level entirely. Launch an app and it'll pop up on the one screen, leaving the other alone. But, with a quick swipe across the top of the bezel that app can hop from one display to the other. Now you can play Angry Birds and keep an eye on your playlist at the same time. If you want to swap their positions you can just pinch up on the upper bezel and your apps will do a little Kriss Kross impression.

A long press of the illuminated circular home button brings up a view of the running apps, which you can simply drag and throw to either of the displays. But, of course, that's only half the story: with this much real estate you'll want to be doing some full-screen app tapping, and you can -- sometimes.

Unfortunately there's no "tablet mode" like on the Echo to be found here, meaning that apps need to be modified to run in full-screen. It's a simple modification that we're told requires developers only make a little manifest tweak, but as of now only a few apps have received said tweak, highlighted by a little dual-screen superscript on their icon.

Thankfully the web browser here has been suitably augmented, and full-screen surfing is definitely a pleasant experience, as even high resolution mobile displays often leave us wanting. However, we found ourselves most impressed by the customized versions of ThinkFree Office Mobile, which enable dual-screen viewing and editing of Word, PowerPoint, and Excel documents, plus PDF viewing to boot. Tapping your way through a grid in a spreadsheet is never an enjoyable experience, but having it spread across two screens certainly beats squinting at one.

To make a compatible app go full screen you again can reach for the upper bezel. A slow drag across will expand the app from one screen to both, which is an intuitive gesture but one that we wish we could be made on the bottom as well. (Sometimes getting up to the top is a bit of a stretch.) Or, you can simply tilt the phone so that the app you want to go full-screen is up on top. It'll then fall down to take over the lower screen. To switch back to the other app, just rotate the phone the other way. Nice.

The custom e-mail application installed here also makes good use of both screens. The left display gives you a folder view or a list of individual e-mails, while the right screen can be used to show the e-mails themselves. The only problem? It isn't the actual Gmail app -- just like on the Echo.

A custom, full-screen keyboard is on offer that takes over the lower screen -- which is a bit of a bother if the text you want to enter is also on the lower screen. But, this gives it plenty of room for not only a full QWERTY layout but even a row of number keys that can be swiped from one side to the other, exposing a row of special characters or a row of other common buttons.

Camera


Most modern smartphones have sprouted second cameras: a high-res version around the back and a second, lower-quality option that's lookin' back at ya. This device does away with that for the obvious reason that the back sort of is the front -- at least some of the time. There's a five megapixel shooter situated just to the left of the earpiece. When folded, launch the camera app and you get a simple message: "Turn Phone over." Now the back is your viewfinder and you use it to take pictures. Want a self portrait? Just hit the button, obey the instructions, and now you have a full-sized view of yourself -- and a full-res profile picture.

We won't bother giving detailed camera impressions at this point because there's some issue with the sensor causing some bizarro chromatic fluctuations in the resulting stills. It's like a trippy Instragram effect that you can't turn off. Video, meanwhile, is captured at 720p -- or will be. We couldn't get this one to record so much as a frame of footage.

Wrap-up


Can a Phone with No Name revolutionize the industry? We wouldn't go that far, but we're suitably intrigued. For not much extra thickness and a modest amount of extra heft you wind up with twice the screen size and, if indeed that 128GB model comes to pass, about four times the storage capacity of your average superphone of today. The question is, of course, how much will it cost, and given the premium construction and hardware, we can say with confidence that this will not be a Free After Rebate device.

And then there's the software. Without the ability to natively run Android apps full-screen, a good amount of developer support is going to be required to make this thing really shine. Developers won't be inclined to support it without a lot of sales... which won't happen without the developer support. You know how it goes. But, if going full-screen really does require just diddling a line in a manifest file, we're thinking most devs will throw that in to the "why not?" category.

And, of course, there's the question of what to call the thing. We can't help getting a Clint Eastwood vibe here, and sticking with his most famous character's Italian Spaghetti Western roots, we kind of like Senza Nome. For now, anyway, until we figure out exactly which company will be bringing this thing to market.

Viacom sues Cablevision over its TV-streaming Optimum for iPad app

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 10:43 AM PDT

A day after Viacom took a break from courtroom battling over Time Warner Cable's iPad app, the media giant has filed a lawsuit against Cablevision over the Optimum for iPad app. Viacom wants a revised agreement before it sees its content appear on new screens, but Cablevision claims that cable service on the iPad is the same as on any TV. While their lawyers argue over the details you can check out the complaint from Viacom in the PDF linked below, or peruse official statements from both companies after the break.

Viacom:

"We have taken this action to protect our valuable content. Over the last few months, we have had limited and unproductive discussions with Cablevision about licensing iPad rights. We remain open to productive discussions, but we cannot wait indefinitely while our networks are being distributed without permission."

Cablevision:

"Cablevision's very popular Optimum App for iPad, which has been available to our customers for nearly three months, falls within our existing cable television licensing agreements with programmers – including Viacom. It is cable television service on the iPad, which functions as a television, and is delivered securely to our customers in the home on Cablevision's own proprietary network."

Tesla Roadster nears the end of its production run, company switches focus to Model S

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 10:15 AM PDT

Well, we knew this day had to come eventually: various sources are reporting that Tesla Motors has announced that production of its Roadster will soon be drawing to a close, a scant three years (and a few months) after initially launching. "I think there's a handful of cars left to sell in the US," said CEO Elon Musk. "People in Europe and Japan probably have another six months [while in] the US, it's maybe a month or two." We always thought that the company's approach was pretty gutsy, and maybe that's exactly what the automotive world needed -- a long-range (if expensive) ride that screamed: "this ain't your parents' EV." (Cue guitar solo.) For the time being, the company will be switching its focus to the more subdued Model S sedan, although we won't be surprised if we see more badass vehicles from these guys in the future. We aren't sure it'll help with the tears, but our Roadster Sport 2.5 test drive will (thankfully) live on forever.

Rotary phone mod tweets your emoticons, heavy soldering still required

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 10:08 AM PDT

File this under 'questionably useful, but darling nonetheless.' ZviZvi over at Instructables needed to update an outdated product for his Industrial Design portfolio, so he took grandpa's old rotary phone and implanted an Arduino soul. With an involved bit of slap n' solder and a WiFly shield, our enterprising Israeli modder transformed this once-luddite tech into an emoticon-tweeting wireless terminal. While the phone's LED-lit dial is only capable of outputting ten heartwarming expressions, that's still ten more than any rotary phone's ever had before. Sure, you could always use that ever-accessible laptop (or smartphone) for your Twitter needs, but where's the fun in that? Per usual, budding inventors can tickle their Emo in the source link below.

Archos intros 80 G9 and 101 G9 Android 3.1 tablets: 1.5GHz CPU, 250GB HDD, 3G-ready

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 09:46 AM PDT

Angling for a new Android 3.1 tablet, are ya? If so, Archos has a new pair emerging from Paris today, the 80 G9 and 101 G9. Predictably, the biggest differentiator between the two is the screen size, with the former offering an 8-inch panel with a 1024 x 768 screen resolution and the latter stepping up to a 10.1-incher (1280 x 800). Both of 'em are proudly using Seagate's 7mm Momentus Thin in order to scale to 250GB, but of course, only time will tell how a power-hungry HDD will do in tablet form factor.

Under the hood, you'll find a dual-core OMAP 4 processor (1.5GHz ARM Cortex A9), support for Flash, access to the Android Market and a full-size USB port -- one that's good for accepting the outfit's new G9 3G WWAN stick ($49). You'll also get an HDMI output, support for 1080p playback and a pay-as-you-go option with the aforesaid 3G dongle. The duo is scheduled to go on sale at the end of September (you know, just a month or two before Ice Cream Sandwich makes Honeycomb look like old hat), with the 80 G9 going for $279 and the 101 G9 for $349. Don't ever say Archos' accountants didn't look out for you.
Archos 80 G9 and Archos 101 G9 press images
Show full PR text
ARCHOS Unveils Fastest Tablets with G9 Tablet Range

The G9 range features the industry's fastest dual-core 1.5 GHz processor, the largest storage capacity with a Seagate 250GB Hard Drive, Honeycomb 3.1, Android MarketTM, 1080p HD video and 3G capability

DENVER, CO – June 23, 2011 - Today, ARCHOS, an award winning technology innovator and pioneer in the tablet market, introduces an unrivaled combination of speed and storage with its latest tablets featuring an OMAP 4 processor with an ARM® Cortex™ dual-core A9 running at 1.5 GHz and Seagate's 250GB Hard Disk Drive (HDD) capacity.

The 8" ARCHOS 80 G9 and 10" ARCHOS 101 G9 are powered by AndroidTM 3.1 "Honeycomb,''* the latest Android version. ARCHOS G9 tablets come with Google's full suite of mobile applications and Android MarketTM, giving users access to over 200,000 applications such as games, books, social media and news. With the latest version of Honeycomb, G9 tablets also offer a full web experience complete with Adobe® Flash® support for on-the-go web browsing, communication and applications.

Additionally, the G9 tablets feature a unique 3G ready solution where customers no longer need to choose between WiFi and 3G models at purchase. ARCHOS 3G Stick is a standard 3G stick for laptops which has been designed to be compatible with all ARCHOS G9 tablets. All G9 tablets come with a concealed USB port on the back of the device that when paired with the ARCHOS 3G USB Stick will enable 3G connectivity.

The G9 tablet range continues to push technological boundaries and features the following innovations.


Fastest Tablet Experience Ever
ARCHOS have decided to push their G9 tablets even further by loading them out with a 1.5 GHz dual-core OMAP 4 processor from Texas Instruments™. With 50% more raw computational power, ARCHOS G9 tablets have the power needed for a great Android experience.

For example, with the 1.5 GHz OMAP 4 processor the ARCHOS G9 tablet enhance a user's web browsing experience with page load time reduced by up to 50% over tablets running the Nvidia Tegra 2TM processor at 1 GHz.


All your HD multimedia in your hands or on TV
With the best multimedia experience, ARCHOS G9 tablets are the only tablets able to decode 1080p H264 High Profile videos whilst current standard tablets are not even able to play 720p H264 High Profile smoothly.

ARCHOS have replaced the standard multimedia apps with ARCHOS boosted apps for video and music to give to users more format compatibility and a unique user interface.

With film and TV series metadata automatically downloaded, even video files are automatically organized by title, actor, director, year, season and episode, ARCHOS have redefined the tablet device category by providing consumers more ways to experience HD entertainment.

ARCHOS G9 tablets also feature an HDMI output, giving users full access to their Android experience on TV including movies in 1080p resolution.

WiFi or 3G, no need to choose, it's up to you whenever you want
This patented solution lets the consumer add a standard PC 3G stick to his tablet whenever and wherever. The ARCHOS G9 3G Stick has been specially designed to fit perfectly into the back of any G9 tablet. Just remove the cover and slide in the ARCHOS G9 3G Stick to unleash the full portability of your ARCHOS G9 tablet.

With this innovative USB 3G stick, consumers will no longer have to choose between a WiFi and a 3G tablet at purchase. For just a $49 upgrade, the users can purchase the ARCHOS G9 3G Stick and start enjoying 3G connectivity on his ARCHOS tablet or PCs compared to other tablets where 3G modules add over $100 to the cost and there's no option to add it later.

This cutting edge 3G stick offers one 3G solution for both a tablet and a laptop and uses just one data plan1. Offered as a Pay-As-You-Go Plan, there is no subscription required and the consumer need only pay for what they need when they need it.

Top performance, best value
While the competitors' tablets are priced starting at $499, ARCHOS is offering an 8'' tablet starting at $279 and 10.1'' tablet starting $349.

ARCHOS is offering cutting-edge performance such as a more powerful and faster processor, unique 3G solution, enhanced multimedia experience and more storage capacity with the built-in 250GB HDD from Seagate.

ARCHOS are the first in the industry to offer a tablet with a hard drive, bringing 8 times more storage at the same cost of a standard 32GB tablet.

ARCHOS are also the first to offer such high performance at such affordable price, making ARCHOS G9 tablets the best cost-performance value.

The ARCHOS 80 G9 and ARCHOS 101 G9 will be available at the end of September and will be shown beginning of September at IFA.

Two tablets to fit your lifestyle: ARCHOS 80 G9 and ARCHOS 101 G9
The ARCHOS 80 G9 is the portable tablet with perfect size for web browsing, ebook and newspaper reading with its 8" 4:3 screen and a resolution of 1024 x 768.

The ARCHOS 101 G9 is the perfect entertainment tablet to share the Android Honeycomb experience. With 250GB of storage space, users will be able to carry over 50 hours of full 1080p HD to watch on their 10.1" wide 1280 x 800 16:10 screen.

Archos trots out Android-based DECT home phone, 35 Home Connect radio

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 09:45 AM PDT

They're hardly as exciting as the company's two new Android 3.1 tablets, but if you're looking for Android in even more places, look no further. Also being unveiled today is the 35 Home Connect, a self-proclaimed Android web radio that should do wonders by your bedside, or kickin' it on the beach. You heard right -- there's a built-in battery here, as well as WiFi access to over 50,000 web radio stations. You'll also find a touch panel, pre-loaded TuneIn application and an alarm clock function that brings together traffic, weather and whatever's happening in your neck of the woods. Finally, a video chatting app is tossed in for good measure, but it's only useful when your front-facing camera isn't handling baby monitoring duties (yeah, seriously!).

Moving right along, there's the Archos 35 Smart Home Phone, an Android-based landline phone that brings users contact sharing with their Android smartphone, MP3 ringtones, caller photo display as well as access to your current stable of Android apps. In other words, this is likely the only home phone you'll find that can also video call, check your email, look up a topic on Wikipedia and satisfy gramps. The above-mentioned 35 Home Connect should ship this September for $149, while the 35 Smart Home Phone does likewise for $10 more.
Archos 35 Smart Home Phone and Home Connect radio
Show full PR text
ARCHOS Now Brings Android Home
With the ARCHOS 35 Smart Home Phone and ARCHOS 35 Home Connect

DENVER, CO – June 23, 2011 - In 2009, ARCHOS were the first to market with an AndroidTM tablet and today they continue to push technological boundaries and innovation with two new Android devices designed for the home - The ARCHOS 35 Home Connect, an Android-based web radio and the ARCHOS 35 Smart Home Phone, an Android DECT phone. Both are smart devices and feature all of the Android functionalities.

The ARCHOS 35 Home Connect is the perfect music box and the best portable Android device for streaming radio and music anywhere at home such as the bedroom, kitchen, bathroom or kids room. Small, compact and easy to carry, ARCHOS 35 Home connect features WiFi and amazing sound quality becoming a part of your daily life.

The ARCHOS 35 Smart Home Phone will make owning a home phone popular again. It brings Smartphone functionality into your home and gives you access to thousands of applications such as weather, news, games and traffic.

Both cutting-edge ARCHOS Android-based home devices, thanks to the front facing webcams, bring new usages such as video calling, baby monitoring and even room surveillance.
ARCHOS 35 Home Connect, the most-advanced Android-based web radio

The ARCHOS 35 Home Connect is light, has an extra-long battery-life and fits perfectly in your hand. With two high-definition speakers specifically designed for improved bass, users will be amazed by the sound quality produced by such a small device.

With just a click on the touch-screen, users will be able to stream over 50,000 web radio stations or music using the pre-loaded TuneIn application.

The ARCHOS alarm clock application brings users weather, traffic and news from the moment they wake up and features multiple alarms. Users will also have access to thousand applications such as games for children.

With a video calling application, users will be able to video chat to stay in touch with family and friends. Additionally, the front facing webcam allows for baby monitoring and even room surveillance.

ARCHOS 35 Smart Home Phone, the ultimate Android-based DECT phone
The ARCHOS 35 Smart Home Phone combines the best of a DECT phone and a Smartphone for your home. Compatible with any ADSL box or phone line and using standard DECT protocols the ARCHOS 35 Smart Home Phone is a light and stylish home phone that brings users contact sharing with their Android smart phone, MP3 ringtones, caller photo display as well as access to thousands of Android apps, web surfing, emails and video calling.

With its sleek and stylish design the ARCHOS 35 Smart Home Phone is finally a home phone that users will be proud to leave on their coffee table. Its charging dock is separate from its wireless receiver so there's no need for a huge dock right next to the phone line.

The ARCHOS 35 Smart Home Phone gives you access no other home phone can - whether you want to quickly check your email without turning on the PC, find that definition in Wikipedia or play a game while waiting for your call, the ARCHOS 35 Smart Home Phone can do it.

Thanks to the video calling application, users are able to call from and to a PC or Android mobile phone. Two other usages with the built in front facing webcam are baby monitoring and video surveillance capabilities.

Price and Availability
The ARCHOS 35 Home Connect is expected to be available in September 2011 at the RRP of $149.
The ARCHOS 35 Smart Home Phone is expected to be available in September 2011 at the RRP of $159.

Both devices will be available at the end of September and will be shown beginning of September at IFA.

Amenbo five-finger mouse has one up on Mickey (video)

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 09:23 AM PDT

If you're using a standard mouse or a trackpad, there's a good chance you've got a finger or two going to waste, and really, what's the point of having all of those digits if you're not going to put them to work? Japan's Double Research & Development Co. is showing off the Amenbo, a new input device that doesn't waste a single finger. Each gets its own pad with a mouse sensor, all connected to a single base with a flexible material that allows for movement. The device can detect pressure and motion of the fingers, and is ideal for interfacing with things like 3D CAD data, which usually requires two hands. It's also apparently great for use with robot hands and getting androids to flash the metal sign. Video of the device after the break.

Nevada prepares itself for the imminent rise of driverless cars

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 08:52 AM PDT

Driverless cars are still a way's away from hitting the mainstream, but when they do, the glorious state of Nevada will be ready for 'em. This week, the state passed a new law that will require its Department of Transportation to "adopt regulations authorizing the operation of autonomous vehicles on highways within the State of Nevada." More specifically, the DOT will have to cook up a set of safety standards for self-driving vehicles, and designate specific areas in which they can be tested. Invisible drivers immediately hailed the decision as a watershed victory in their ongoing struggle for civil rights.

Google code reveals inner Circles, a social secret weapon?

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 08:25 AM PDT

Nothing livens the day like a blurry screen grab of some Javascript, especially when it hints at the ghostly form of a social networking tool that doesn't officially exist. The code was spotted hiding in plain sight at Google Profiles by Austrian blogger Florian Rohrweck, who fortunately enjoys browsing computer-speak more than playing in the park. Rohrweck noticed the word "circles" used repeatedly in the context of people adding and maintaining groups of contacts, and made the connection to the Google Circles social networking platform that was feverishly rumored and then vehemently denied earlier this year (a saga fully recapped at the More Coverage link). It's impossible to know whether these few lines of code represent a forthcoming service, another social layer on top of existing services, or just pure experimentation on the part of Google devs. In any case, the circular references have apparently now been zapped, leaving us with nothing more than that screen grab -- oh yeah, and Facebook.

Tokyoflash resurrects readable Rogue watch with combo LCD/LED display (video)

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 08:07 AM PDT

Rogue SR2
Tokyoflash is notorious for selling geek-friendly and borderline indecipherable timepieces but, not every watch the company hawks is unreadable. One of its more easily interpreted wrist clocks, the Rogue, has been resurrected with an always-on LCD display (a rarity from the shop) and a brightly colored LED backlight in your choice of red, green, blue, or orange. Like the RPM, the Rogue SR2 tells time with a series of unnumbered, inner and outer rings that represent hours and minutes -- all you need to do is spot the gaps. Sure, it requires you fire a few more synapses than that cheap digital Casio you've been wearing, but think of it as mental exercise -- it's like wearing Brain Age on your wrist. You can order one now for $179 at the source, and don't forget to head after the break for one more photo and a video demonstration.
Rogue SR2

HP announces Pivot for TouchPad, the curated, magazine-like way to find some apps

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 07:41 AM PDT

HP announces TouchPad Pivot, the curated, magazine-like way to find some apps
Finding apps can be tough, especially when your Store or Marketplace is overwhelmed with a daily flood of debutantes. That's not exactly a problem for HP, whose App Catalog for the webOS 3.0 TouchPad officially launches on July 1st and will be, the company admits, a little spartan at first. But HP has a plan for a future flood of apps: Pivot. It's basically a curated digital magazine that will present a selection of apps someone at HP found interesting for whatever reason -- a way for users to discover new downloads and, more importantly, for niche developers to not get lost in the shuffle. HP hopes this will attract developers, taking a different approach from the competition, which often resorts to outright promises of cash to pique their interest -- but a few free TouchPads never hurts .

Show full PR text
HP Announces webOS Pivot for HP TouchPad

Company enhances webOS Developer Program with new updates

PALO ALTO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--HP (NYSE:HPQ) today announced HP webOS Pivot, providing users an entertaining and informative editorial resource for discovering webOS 3.0 applications for the HP TouchPad, which launches July 1.

"It provides an enriching experience for customers and is a great environment for developers considering the platform."
Designed to complement the HP webOS App Catalog, Pivot will showcase a broad range of applications – and the developers who create them – by providing customers the freedom to explore based on their interests and lifestyles. It's just one of the new ways HP is enhancing the webOS Developer Program and investing further in the success of the growing ecosystem.

"Pivot brings app discovery to a new level for customers and developers alike," said Richard Kerris, vice president, webOS Worldwide Developer Relations, HP. "We want our partners to experience webOS as the growing platform of opportunity, and we're investing in new ways to help market their applications on our platform."

Published on a monthly basis, Pivot is designed to broaden developer exposure and create a dynamic marketplace for the burgeoning webOS developer community.

Consisting of original content by journalists and photographers affiliated with leading publications, Pivot will include visually driven editorial pieces, columns from notable guest writers sharing their perspectives on digital culture, feature stories focused on applications around specific topics, and in-depth reviews – all accompanied by vibrant photos and illustrations on HP TouchPad's brilliant screen. Content will be catered to the specific interests and requirements of a given region, appealing to a wide range of international customers.

Pivot will publish initially for English, French, German and Spanish languages and will be updated over the air directly to all HP TouchPad customers.

"Pivot has the right focus," said Joe Simon, chief technology officer, Conde Nast. "It provides an enriching experience for customers and is a great environment for developers considering the platform."

Investing in webOS developer success

The webOS Developer Program enhancements also include a new discount structure. Developers will have access to this pricing model based on their years in the Palm developer program and active applications in the webOS App Catalog.

"Working with HP and the webOS ecosystem has been fantastic," said Haden Blackman, co-president and chief creative officer of Fearless Studios, a game company recently started by Blackman and fellow LucasArts alum, Cedrick Collomb. "It's a perfect fit with our core values as a company – creative risks mitigated by smart technology choices. Because the platform is so accessible and developer-friendly, we've been able to build the game we want to build."

"We love the TouchPad and the webOS platform for game development," added Collomb, chief technology officer, Fearless Studios. "It's built from the ground up for seamless connectivity between devices and it's an open platform, which makes development that much easier."

HP TouchPad availability

The Wi-Fi version of HP TouchPad(1) will be available in stores and online in the United States on July 1 with the option of either 16 GB or 32 GB of internal storage(2) for $499.99 and $599.99, respectively.(3)

HP TouchPad will be available in the United Kingdom, Ireland, France and Germany on July 2 and in Canada on July 15, with availability scheduled to follow later this year in Australia, Hong Kong, Italy, New Zealand, Singapore and Spain.

More information about HP TouchPad is available at www.hp.com/touchpad.

HP webOS Developer Program

Complete details about the updated developer programs will be available on the HP webOS Developer Portal beginning July 1.

About HP

HP creates new possibilities for technology to have a meaningful impact on people, businesses, governments and society. The world's largest technology company, HP brings together a portfolio that spans printing, personal computing, software, services and IT infrastructure at the convergence of the cloud and connectivity, creating seamless, secure, context-aware experiences for a connected world. More information about HP is available at http://www.hp.com.

EV maker Think Global files for bankruptcy after poor US sales

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 07:25 AM PDT

Not so long ago, we were ready to believe that this plastic EV might stand a fighting chance thanks to its local charm and initial $28,000 price tag. But then the price soared, sales failed to pick up, and now it appears the Norwegian maker of the Think City couldn't cling on any longer. Think Global has filed for bankruptcy and will be liquidated in an attempt to pay off its creditors, including US battery producer and investor Ener1, which is making a $33 million charge on the company's assets. It's sad to see any such enterprise fail, but Think Global might one day be seen as a victim of the success of the EV industry, which is beginning to see better competition and lower prices.

Verbalizer: the open-source wireless microphone of your Arduino-loving dreams

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 07:00 AM PDT

Google's Voice Search for desktop is nifty and all, but what it's really been lacking is a worthy way to trigger it into action. The Verbalizer is an open-source dev board made specifically to be used with the search giant's new tools from up to ten meters away. This microphone-shaped piece of circuitry was made with Arduino compatibility in mind, which means that voice search is just the beginning. The company (who happens to be the same folks behind the brilliant Instaprint) will be distributing schematics and source code through its website, and promises to give away a "limited run" of kits for free in a drawing starting today. Head on over to the source link if you feel like testing your luck, but not before checking after the break for one more shot of these mini masterpieces on display as well as the nitty gritty PR.



Show full PR text
BREAKFAST RELEASES THE VERBALIZER - AN OPEN SOURCE DEV BOARD TO USE WITH GOOGLE'S VOICE SEARCH FOR DESKTOP
Sneak preview given to 20 lucky workshop participants

NEW YORK - June 23, 2011 - Today BREAKFAST released the Verbalizer, an open- source development board designed to interface with Google's freshly-minted Voice Search for the Desktop. Out of the box, simply touching a certain part of the device will remotely trigger Voice Search from up to 10 meters away, providing an audio cue telling you to "speak now" to submit your search. The board itself is a geek's work of art in it's own right, but the real beauty lies in it's potential to allow anyone to modify the device, turning it into anything from a magic genie lamp that you rub and speak your searches into, to a modified radio microphone that, when turned on, illuminates an "On Air" sign as you speak queries to your computer. You can see some photos and video of some of these creations at breakfastny.com/verbalizer.

The board is designed to be Arduino-compatible and completely open source, so anyone can modify it with additional components to give their own creative spin (or even build their own from scratch).

BREAKFAST gave a sneak preview of the device at their first ever Make 'n Break workshop on Tuesday June 21. Everyone was given a quick lesson in electronics design before getting their hands on a Verbalizer kit and using their creativity to turn it into something delightful and amazing.

To let others in on the action, BREAKFAST will be giving away a limited run of Verbalizer kits for free. Starting on June 23 you can enter your name in the drawing by visiting breakfastny.com/verbalizer.

For more information, including hardware schematics, source code and a video of the Verbalizer in action, head over to breakfastny.com/verbalizer.

Toyota premiers smart charging G-Stations in Japan, world instantly jealous

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 06:21 AM PDT


Recharging tired EVs and plug-in hybrids in Japan just got a little more exciting thanks to Toyota's upcoming G-Station charger, which relies on contact-less smart-cards to identify vehicles and owners. Toyota's Windows Azure-powered Smart Center drives the machines, which allows users to connect to the internet and use smartphone apps to find chargers, receive notifications, and check usage history. The G-Station will be coming this July in two flavors, creatively named Type A for the standard and Type B for the more advanced model. Pricing for the aforementioned units will be 280,000 yen ($3,469 USD) and 448,000 yen ($5,549 USD) respectively. Toyota is expecting to sell around 3,000 units by the end of 2012, making these stations available to its retail car dealers, shopping malls and restaurants. Soon the outside of pachinko parlors will be just as electric as the inside.

Genesi's hard float ARM optimizations can hasten Linux floating point operations by 300 percent

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 05:57 AM PDT

You may know Genesi for its ARM-based Smartbook, but a recent software initiative it's undertaken has much broader implications for the Linux ecosystem. Traditionally, the Penguin-powered OS is compiled under the assumption that all ARM designs contain floating point silicon. Unfortunately, this is only true of recent architectures, creating a problem for older chipsets who stumble when executing floating point code. It's the realization of the fault that stalls progress as the chip is forced to rely on software emulation to make the appropriate stars align. Heavy stuff, but the firm's work in recompiling 90 percent of the existing Debian repository have caused a 300 percent increase in the speed of applications that are heavily reliant on floating point. Purportedly, they managed this without changing a single line of source code, but we'll leave it to them to explain -- there's a 15 minute barrage of technobabble waiting just after the break.

Samsung Series 3 hands-on

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 05:25 AM PDT

Samsung Series 3 11.6-inch model
We were strolling around the Metropolitan Pavilion, enjoying the sights and sounds of Digital Experience, when, lo and behold, we spotted a pair of unfamiliar laptops gracing the thick black tablecloth at the Samsung booth. What you see above is just one member, the 12.1-inch model to be specific, of the as yet unannounced Series 3 line. These budget friendly lappies are anything but cheap looking or feeling. The entire lineup has followed in the footsteps of the Series 9, opting for soft brushed finishes that are, at the very least, metal-esque. Gone are the shiny plastics that made your notebook look like evidence at a crime scene. At the bottom end is a 15.6-inch model sporting a dual-core AMD A4 CPU and (oddly) a glossy display.

If you want to wipe the reflective sheen from that screen, jump up a notch to the $599 Core i3-sporting version. The 15.6 models reach all the way up to a quad-core Core i7 CPU for $819 and all the Intel varieties pack WiDi (as do the 12.5-inchers). The other sizes (11.6, 12.1, 13.3, and 14 inches) all sport the same premium finishes, solid keyboards, and pleasant touchpads, while being expected to be easy on the wallet. There are still some details to be worked out, and not all specs or prices are finalized but, while we wait for the official PR to roll in, check out our hands-on with the 12.1-inch and 15.6-inch models below.
Samsung Series 3

Nokia's first Windows Phone: images and video, codenamed 'Sea Ray'

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 05:01 AM PDT

Ok, this one's odd. In fact, we didn't believe the images until a video just surfaced showing Nokia CEO, Stephen Elop, foolishly asking a crowd of people to "put away their cameras" for the unveiling of something "super confidential," codenamed "Sea Ray." Naturally, a few people ignored the plea for "no pictures please" and, indeed, someone leaked what appears to be a Nokia-produced video of the unveiling to the blogosphere. What is it? Why, it's Nokia's first Windows Phone. While it looks nearly identical to the just announced N9, the different LED placement on the back (in line with the same 8 megapixel Carl Zeiss lens) confirms it's a new device as does the additional hardware button (for shutter release, we presume) along the side. And the fact that it's running Windows Phone 7 Mango seals the deal. See a few more shots and the full uncut video (and relevant snippet) after the break.

[Thanks, Advil and Zeban]







Pioneer's AppRadio delivers iPhone integration, automotive and audio bliss for $400

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 04:18 AM PDT

We knew Pioneer's AppRadio car stereo was coming to cozy up with our iPhones, but we didn't know how much its iOS integration capabilities would cost, until now. Turns out 400 bucks buys you one, and it's picked up some new capabilities since we got handsy with the device last month. In addition to letting you listen to tunes stored on your iPhone, access Google Maps, and make calls, the AppRadio now has access to your iPhone's contacts, calendar, videos, and photos as well. Unfortunately, there's still only four other apps (Rdio, Pandora, MotionX-GPS Drive, and INRIX) available, though Pioneer says more are coming. With a name like AppRadio they ought to get here soon, as in immediately. Peep the PR after the break for the full monty.
Show full PR text
Pioneer AppRadio Arrives Today at $399

AppRadio Ready for Immediate Purchase

CEA Line Shows 2011
NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--CEA Line Show – Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc., the leader in aftermarket car electronics technology, today announced that the AppRadio™ is now available for immediate purchase at a retail price of $399.

"The smartphone continues to change the landscape of our industry and Pioneer's AppRadio is the first aftermarket product to fully embrace the iPhone 4 for use in the automobile"
The AppRadio is the first in-vehicle product designed to utilize the processing power, storage capacity, network connectivity and apps of the iPhone™ and iPod touch (4th generation) as the primary source for its information and entertainment capabilities. Pioneer's AppRadio also features the industry's first capacitive touchscreen that enables control of most functions using similar touch and motion gestures as many of today's most popular smartphones, but in a larger 6.1-inch screen designed specifically for safer in-vehicle operation1. For safety and convenience, AppRadio features built-in Bluetooth for hands-free calling2 and an input for an optional vehicle mounted rear facing back-up camera.

"The smartphone continues to change the landscape of our industry and Pioneer's AppRadio is the first aftermarket product to fully embrace the iPhone 4 for use in the automobile," said Ted Cardenas, director of marketing for the car electronics division of Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. "With a familiar and intuitive interface and the ability to add features by simply updating or adding apps, the AppRadio is the ultimate car stereo for the iPhone 4 user."

Feature and App Compatibility Expansion

Today's announcement also highlights the flexibility of the AppRadio to seamlessly add features through AppRadio compatible iPhone apps.

The latest update to Pioneer's AppRadio app now adds access to the iPhone's Contacts, Calendar and Photos apps. Contacts provides direct access to stored contact information for hands-free calling via Bluetooth, routing via Google Maps, and enables users to quickly send their current locations via e-mail. With the vehicle parked and the parking brake fully engaged, Calendar displays stored calendar and events information and Photos provides on-screen viewing of the user's photos, slide shows, geotagged photos and videos taken with an iPhone 4.

This expansion adds to the list of AppRadio compatible apps that includes MotionX-GPS DRIVE™, INRIX®3, TRAFFIC, Rdio®, PANDORA® INTERNET RADIO plus the iPhone's Google Maps and iPod music library.

As the library of AppRadio compatible applications continues to grow, users will be automatically notified via the Pioneer AppRadio iPhone application, with a link to the respective app(s) page within the Apple iTunes App Store. Additionally, the AppRadio software itself is updatable offering the potential for future hardware, software and as app compatibility changes.

Pricing and Availability

Pioneer's AppRadio is available now for a retail price of $399 at Best Buy, Crutchfield.com, Amazon.com and select Pioneer Authorized Retailers.

Pioneer's Car Electronics Division is known for offering the kind of in-car products that make driving more enjoyable by offering high quality audio and video, seamless connectivity and ease-of-use. Its focus is on the development of new digital technologies including audio video, navigation and emerging media, while maintaining its strong heritage in products for car audio enthusiasts and sound competitors.

Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. is headquartered in Long Beach, Calif., and its U.S. Web address is www.pioneerelectronics.com. Its parent company, Pioneer Corporation, is a leader in optical disc technology and a preeminent manufacturer of high-performance audio, video and computer equipment for the home, car and business markets. The company focuses on three core business domains including home electronics, car electronics, and Digital Network Entertainment™.

1 Do not use your Pioneer system if doing so will divert your attention in any way from the safe operation of your vehicle. Always observe safe driving rules. In some states certain operations of devices while driving may be illegal. Where such regulations apply, they must be obeyed.

2 Bluetooth functionality requires a compatible Bluetooth-enabled mobile phone. Certain Bluetooth features may not be supported by all compatible Bluetooth-enabled devices, and/or the functionality of such features may be limited in certain devices or by certain wireless carriers. See more details about compatible Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones at the following webpage: "http://www.pioneerelectronics.com/BluetoothCompatibility".

3 INRIX app currently supports 4.3 only

Ford SYNC AppLink gets rolling in ten new models, still just three apps deep

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 03:36 AM PDT

Ford SYNC AppLink gets rolling in ten new models, still just three apps deep
Back when we gave Ford's SYNC AppLink a test drive in that little green Fiesta, we got word that the Mustang was next in line to receive the service. Well, earlier this year, the auto outfit Linked-up the Mustang and now it's rolling out the application for 10 new 2012 models, including the F-150, Fusion (Hybrid and otherwise), Super Duty, and Expedition. It also says it's got a slew of developers lining up to bring hands-free control of their apps to AppLink. For now, though, no matter which SYNC-enabled beast you boast, or which OS you're rocking (BlackBerry OS, iOS, or Android), you'll be riding dirty with just two linked apps at most. Full PR after the break.
Show full PR text
Ford Adds SYNC AppLink to 10 Vehicles, Quadruples Connectivity Team, Grows App Developer Community


DEARBORN, Mich., June 22, 2011

Ford makes factory-installed SYNC® AppLink™ available on 10 vehicles for 2012, expanding the reach of the award-winning software application that gives SYNC users industry-exclusive hands-free voice control capability of smartphone apps

Ford is aggressively building its team of in-car connected services experts, with plans to grow the global Connected Services Solutions Organization fourfold over the next four years, with a threefold jump for U.S. operations alone

SYNC app developer community continues to grow, now with more than 2,500 developers looking to create apps for Ford vehicles


The award-winning Ford SYNC® AppLink™ software program is migrating to a new group of 2012 Ford vehicles, giving more vehicle owners the opportunity to enjoy intuitive voice control of and access to their smartphone apps on the go.

The 2012 Ford Fusion, Fusion Hybrid, Fiesta, F-150, F-150 SVT Raptor, Super Duty, Expedition, E-Series and Shelby GT500 join the previously announced 2012 Ford Mustang as AppLink-equipped vehicles.

Plus, more mobile innovations are on the way, with additional Ford jobs planned for the company's Connected Services Solutions Organization – and 2,500 independent developers already signaling they are interested in creating more apps for Ford through the company's dedicated SYNC developer website (www.syncmyride.com/developer).

"We understand more and more drivers are using their devices and their apps while in the car," said Doug VanDagens, director of Ford Connected Services Solutions. "Ford is a part of the solution, offering voice-activated options such as Ford SYNC with AppLink on a broader range of our products, which gives more customers a smarter way to access their apps while driving that keeps their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road."

The recently released J.D. Power and Associates 2011 U.S. Automotive Emerging Technologies Study reports 86 percent of smartphone owners indicate they use their device while in their vehicles. A Nationwide Mutual Insurance 2010 study indicates more than one in four Americans who download smartphone apps admit to using those apps while driving.

Great expectations

Adding AppLink as a factory-installed, standard feature of SYNC on a wider range of vehicles, including F-Series, America's best-selling vehicle for 29 years, puts Ford further out front in the race to integrate smartphone apps into the car, a feature vehicle owners are increasingly demanding.

Ford has great expectations for AppLink as it migrates to more products and more customers, especially Fusion and F-150 owners, already avid buyers of the SYNC system. Currently, more than 84 percent of 2011 Fusions sold are equipped with SYNC, with F-150 coming in at more than 76 percent for the optional in-car connectivity system.

VanDagens adds that the Ford Connected Services Solutions Organization, responsible for developing the company's in-car connectivity services, is also on its own accelerated growth plan to stay in step with – if not a step ahead of – how the car connects with the latest and greatest in the mobile electronics industry.

During the next four years, the global Connected Services team will grow fourfold, with a threefold jump planned for U.S. operations alone.

"Ford is committed to building systems for the vehicle environment that leverage innovation and infrastructure and are robust to the changing consumer electronics technology landscape," said VanDagens. "To do that safely, seamlessly and securely, we have to have dedicated people on our team who eat, sleep and breathe consumer electronics rarified air – technical experts who not only understand current technology but have a sense for where it is headed."

Users speak out

In late 2010, Ford began offering AppLink as a download on www.syncmyride.com, available exclusively to 2011 Ford Fiesta owners for popular mobile apps, such as Pandora® internet radio, one of the top five most used apps across all four major smartphone platforms in the U.S. according to Nielsen.

These users will continue to have more to cheer about as additional SYNC-enabled apps go live, said Julius Marchwicki, Ford SYNC product manager.

Most recently, Stitcher officially joined the fold, launching its SYNC-enabled app in the Apple App Store for iPhone users. Android users are not far behind for Stitcher, with a SYNC-enabled version of the app set to launch later this summer.

"The flexibility of the SYNC platform and software-based solutions such as AppLink give Ford a powerful blend of in-car connectivity technologies that can easily adapt to our customers' needs and what's happening in the mobile electronics industry, including the exploding world of smartphone apps," said Marchwicki. "To keep more of our customers connected, we will continue to add other SYNC-enabled apps, smartphone integrations and vehicles with factory-installed AppLink to our lineup."

Ford has a direct connection to the app developer community through its dedicated SYNC developer website where the 2,500-plus submissions from app developers looking for the Ford Software Development Kit (SDK) were made. With the SDK, developers can modify an existing app or create an all-new app that can successfully interface with Ford SYNC through AppLink. Categories under Ford consideration include:

Personalized entertainment

Personalized information and news

Location-based services including navigation, traffic and business searches

Notifications and alerts leveraging the SYNC ability to mash up vehicle information, GPS locations and more, all to provide the driver with customized information and guidance

Scheduling and planning apps that could include notifications of flight status, for instance, in the event flights are delayed or rescheduled


The 2011 Edison Silver Award winner in the Transportation In-Car Driving Aid category, AppLink currently is compatible with devices using the Apple iOS, Android and BlackBerry OS platforms. As with the 2012 Mustang, factory-installed AppLink for 2012 Fusion, F-150, Super Duty, Expedition and E-Series will come standard with SYNC, as well as be integrated into the optional voice-activated Navigation System, providing the additional convenience of a touch screen for control.

Current availability of SYNC-enabled apps:

Pandora
Apple iOS: Available now from Apple App Store (V3.1.6 or higher)
Android: Available now from Android Market (V1.5.3 or higher)
BlackBerry: Available now from BlackBerry App World (Version 1.1.6 or higher)

Stitcher
Apple iOS: Available now from Apple App Store (V3.1.6 or higher)
Android: Coming summer 2011

OpenBeak
BlackBerry: Available now from BlackBerry App World (Version 1.4 or higher)

Genesi i.MX 53 netbooks, nettops to take Freescale machines deeper into the bargain basement

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 02:57 AM PDT

Genesi i.MX 53 netbooks, nettops to take Freescale machines deeper into the bargain basement
Back in March, Genesi announced its plans to target emerging markets by dropping the price of its Efika MX Smartbook and Smarttop machines. Those devices packed i.MX 51 CPUs, and post-cut price tags of $199 and $129, respectively. Now the San Antonio-based outfit is hinting at any even bigger price break for the developing world with the introduction of its i.MX 53 netbook PCB. According to a Genesi rep at the Freescale Technology Forum, the board, which is significantly smaller than its predecessor, is "as cheap as we can possibly make it," and will likely power even more cost efficient Genesi computers in the near future. No word on just how low Genesi is willing to go, but it's shooting for an i.MX 53 debut sometime this summer. If cheap is your thing, check out the PCB in all its glory after the break.

Bluetooth SIG takes aim at sensor market, adds Apple and Nordic to board of directors

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 02:11 AM PDT

The Bluetooth Special Interest Group (aka Bluetooth SIG) has some fairly grand plans for the future of its wireless technology, and it's now recruited some big players to help get it there. The group announced yesterday that it's added both Apple and Nordic Semiconductor to its board of directors -- companies that it says will help it "drive Bluetooth technology's expansion into platform and sensor markets." In particular, the group is setting its sights on wireless health sensors, which it hopes to finally gain a real foothold in thanks the lower power requirements of the Bluetooth 4.0 standard, and thanks to the experience of Nordic, which has a long history of working with such devices. Full press release is after the break.
Show full PR text
Bluetooth SIG Adds Apple and Nordic Semiconductor to Board of Directors

Industry Leaders Support Expansion of Bluetooth Technology into New Markets

KIRKLAND, Wash.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) today announced two new members to its board of directors from Apple and Nordic Semiconductor. Leaders in their perspective markets, Apple and Nordic join household names Intel, Motorola, Lenovo, Nokia, Microsoft, Ericsson AB, and Toshiba on the Bluetooth SIG board. These companies, plus the more than 14,500 additional Bluetooth SIG member companies, will drive Bluetooth technology's expansion into platform and sensor markets.

"We see the importance of platform development and ultra-low power sensor silicon for Bluetooth technology and believe guidance and board participation from Apple and Nordic, industry leaders in these perspective fields, is essential," said Michael Foley, Ph.D., executive director of the Bluetooth SIG. "We have set the ambitious goal of shipping five billion devices in 2015 – to get there we must continue to build a technology that will offer a simple and secure solution that can be found everywhere, in every type of device. These additions to our board will ensure we succeed in new markets we have targeted for growth."

The way consumers utilize digital devices is undergoing a fundamental shift – mobile phones, laptops and tablets, TVs and even cars now stand to serve as hub devices that capture data from small sensors monitoring everything from footsteps, heart rate activity, blood pressure and sugar levels to house temperature. Hub devices turn that data into useful information at the application layer, then may push that information to the cloud. Apple and Nordic understand this shift; insight from Apple on platform development and Nordic for sensor silicon demands will ensure a smooth growth trajectory of Bluetooth v4.0 into these new areas.

Nordic Semiconductor's Svein-Egil Nielsen brings extensive experience in R&D as well as his entrepreneurial spirit to the Bluetooth SIG. Nielsen's vast understanding of the ultra-low power space and its demands will help guide continued development of the Bluetooth v4.0 specification.

"Bluetooth technology has been the main R&D focus at Nordic for the last six years and we are now in a position to enable new and exciting products for consumers," said Svenn-Tore Larsen, CEO Nordic Semiconductor. "With our success in ultra-low power wireless technology, we know the market, applications and the customers. Nordic is proud to have the opportunity to extend this knowledge to the Bluetooth community."

Apple and Nordic's two-year appointments were agreed upon by unanimous vote of the current board of directors and will officially begin on July 1, 2011.

About Bluetooth® Wireless Technology

Bluetooth wireless technology is the global wireless standard enabling simple connectivity for a broad range of electronic devices. Version 4.0 featuring Bluetooth low energy technology creates new application opportunities for products within the mobile phone, consumer electronics, PC, automotive, health & wellness, sports & fitness and smart home industries. With nearly two billion devices shipping annually, Bluetooth technology is the only proven wireless solution for developers, product manufacturers, and consumers worldwide. Backed by industry leading companies, the Bluetooth SIG empowers more than 14,500 member companies to collaborate, innovate and guide Bluetooth wireless technology. For more information please visit www.bluetooth.com. Bluetooth wireless technology: Simple. Secure. Everywhere.

Acer Iconia Tab A500 to get Android 3.1 on 5th of July, at least in Deutschland

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 01:32 AM PDT

The Iconia Tab A500, Acer's "better choice" tablet, is set to join the ranks of Android 3.1 slates on the 5th of July, according to the company's German Facebook page. That's a little later than the June timeframe we'd initially been promised, but the precision of giving an actual date this time around inspires confidence that the OTA goodies will indeed be delivered. So far, we've only seen Acer announce this news on its German portal, so please keep your optimism in cautious gear if you reside outside the Bundesrepublik. The only certain Android update is the one that's already on your device.

appBlaster iPhone accessory lets you kick AR alien butt, bubblegum not included

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 01:00 AM PDT

AppBlaster
Gun accessories for your Wiimote or Move wands are old hat but, we can't help but be at least a little intrigued by this rifle-like dock for the iPhone. The appBlaster is an accessory from apptoyz designed specifically for use with the company's Alien Attack iOS game. Slide in your iDevice and fire up the AR shooter and you'll be treated to a bit of Piper-vision, exposing the invisible aliens in our midst. Pull the triggers and two capacitive pads touch the screen to fire at the invaders that only you can see. The appBlaster is available for pre-order now at RED5 for £19.99 (about $32) and will official hit shelves on July 7. Check out the PR after the break.

Show full PR text
The ultimate phone becomes the ultimate toy

- RED5.co.uk launches the appBlaster, an augmented reality iGaming toy -

London, UK – 8am GMT, June 23, 2011 – RED5.co.uk, the ultimate gadget shop, today launches a world exclusive iPhone and iPod touch toy, the appBlaster from apptoyz. Designed to work with the augmented reality (AR) app, Alien Attack, the blaster demolishes aliens invisible to the naked eye. The appBlaster is exclusively available on pre-order today at www.RED5.co.uk for dispatch on 7 July, for £19.99 and will be for sale at the RED5 concession at Selfridges, Oxford Street from 6 July.

The appBlaster* gives iPhone and iPod touch users a new AR gaming experience. The augmented reality feature of the game means that the alien invasion will be coming straight at you from the surrounding area, so whether you're on the bus, in the office or at home, there's no place to hide!

The appBlaster doesn't require any batteries as it sports trigger-to-touch-screen technology to fire the in-game shooter. The triggers operate two pads that touch the screen and shoot the in-game blaster, allowing the user to use both the primary and secondary shooting functions. To make the experience more realistic, the appBlaster can be cocked and reloaded using the iPhone's or iPod touch's motion sensitivity.

Simply download the free app, apptoyz Alien Attack, from the iTunes App Store, lock and load your iPhone or iPod touch to the top of the blaster, and using the unique trigger-to-touch-screen technology, shoot the advancing aliens from all corners of the room. The full version of the free Alien Attack app will launch on 6 July. It can be found after launch by searching Alien Attack on the iTunes App Store. Further apptoyz game apps will be released on the App Store later in the summer.

* appBlaster was known as AppGun in developmental stages.

Compatible with iPhone 3GS, 4, and iPod touch 4th generation.

About RED5

The first RED5 store opened its doors in 2005 and the company currently has 15 standalone physical shops as well as established concessions at Hamleys and Selfridges. The website www.red5.co.uk followed in 2006, as a result of rapidly growing customer demand. With a priority on quality and originality, the RED5 buying team search far and wide to bring the coolest and most innovative gifts and gadgets to customers, before the rest of the market. Although RED5 may appear to be a new kid on the block, in reality it is anything but, founders Jonathan Elvidge and Joth Baron, were both part of the team behind The Gadget Shop, the original high street gadget retailer.

The Acorn A7000+ portable mod is what your MacBook looks like in an alternate universe

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 12:23 AM PDT

Aside from its attempted rebirth as a laptop manufacturer back in 2006, we haven't heard all that much from Acorn Computers in the past, oh, two decades or so. And if you're not a UK native, there's a pretty good chance that you didn't hear all that much about the "British Apple" before then either. But while the company's more official attempt to go portable was nothing to write home about, its late-period A7000+ desktop has now seen a successful second life at the hands of a British modder as the A7KP. The Acorn's innards have been stuffed into a five pound (relatively) portable setup, featuring a 10.4-inch LCD, 4GB of flash memory, and a battery that offers up three hours of RISC OS-based fun. It's enough to make you wonder how you ever played Lemmings on anything else.

ASUS U36 ultraportable laptop now available in UK, £699 for 'world's thinnest standard voltage i5'

Posted: 22 Jun 2011 11:51 PM PDT

ASUS U36ASUS first made that handsome slab of magnesium alloy on the left available to the US back in December, and now the ultra portable laptop will finally grace folks in the UK. If you'll recall, the 13.3-inch U36's stand out features include a svelte 19mm thickness, standard voltage i5 processor, NVIDIA Optimus graphics, and a USB 3.0 toggle (for an estimated 11.5 hour battery life). The hardware seems chunky now that we've played with the company's UX21 ultrathin, but with a price of £699 (just over $1,200) it's hard to complain much. If your palms are beginning to sweat in excitement, it's available at Micro Anvika today in your choice of black or silver, and should be at Comet by the end of the month. You'll find even more details in the PR that just so happens to be waiting after the break.
Show full PR text
22nd June 2011

Stunning ultra-portable U36 notebook launches in the UK

The nanometer-coated ASUS U36 is the world's thinnest notebook with standard voltage Intel Core i5 processor

The U36 notebook is the world's thinnest laptop to harness the power of a standard voltage Intel® Core™ i5 processor, giving you the freedom to stay light and connected on the move without compromising on mobile performance.

ASUS Super Hybrid Engine (with the ability to switch off USB 3.0 functionality) combined with NVIDIA graphics and Optimus technology saves power for when it's needed most to deliver an incredible 11.5 hours battery life*.

With an ultra-thin chassis (only 19mm thick) made from lightweight magnesium alloy with nanometer coating, the U36 is not only practical by repelling dirt, water and fingerprint marks, but is a head-turning accessory for even the most fashion-conscious users, both at home and on the go.

Two videos, including a hands-on demonstration of its key features, are available at http://techinstyle.tv/products/the-stunning-u36-ultra-portable-notebook-launches-in-the-uk.

The U36 is priced at £699 inc VAT and is available now in-store and online from Micro Anvika (www.anvika.com/product/asus-u36jc-rx197x-13-3-w7p-4gb-500gb/asu14503) and before the end of June from Comet www.comet.co.uk

Key Features:

* Standard voltage Intel® Core™ i5 processor

* Ultra-thin chassis only 19mm thick and weighing 1.44kg

* Up to 11.5 hours battery life*

* ASUS Super Hybrid Engine with USB 3.0 toggle

* NVIDIA Graphics with Optimus technology

* Magnesium alloy finish with nanometer coating

* 13.3" HD TFT display (1366 x 768)

* 500GB storage

* 802.11 b/g/n wireless

* 5 in 1 card reader

Enjoy maximum power without the burden:

Unlike other ultra-thin notebooks (which use low voltage CPUs to gain cooling and power consumption benefits) the U36 has broken the mould in design innovation by unleashing the superior performance of a standard voltage Intel® Core™ i5 processor from within a delightfully sleek 19mm chassis.

This bold step forward is owed to ASUS's dual heat pipe design, which effectively dissipates heat from the processor without adding any extra bulk – keeping the notebook cool and your bag even lighter.

Up to 11.5 hours battery life for all-day computing:

The U36 notebook integrates ASUS's Super Hybrid Engine technology which intelligently manages energy consumption based on whether you're simply checking emails and browsing the net, or using more power-hungry applications such as video editing or playing games.

The NVIDIA graphics card ensures movies and games are blasted out in crystal clear quality for a smooth, uninterrupted experience, whilst Optimus technology cleverly switches between onboard or discrete graphics without any user intervention, so it won't waste power where it's not needed.

With up to 10 hours battery life* as standard, the U36 also offers the ability to switch off USB 3.0 functionality in order to squeeze an extra 1.5 hours on top for a whopping overall 11.5 hours* battery life and the reassurance that you won't be left in the dark away from home.

Stay on trend with the sleek and soft magnesium alloy finish:

The U36's slender chassis is just 19mm at the thickest point, and is designed using ultra-light magnesium alloy for a truly chic finish that is incredibly lightweight (1.44kg).

What's more, with a soft-touch nanometer coating the U36 is repellent of dirt, fingerprints and even water (no more panic when it starts to drizzle), whilst the seamless chiclet keyboard is easier to clean and prevents the build-up of dust. This thoughtful design helps to keep the laptop looking beautiful even after hours of exposure to every kind of environment from the home to trains or when stowed in hand luggage.

With metallic choices in silver or black, the U36 is bang on-trend this season and the ideal choice for a tech chic style both at home and away.

Pricing and Availability:

The U36 is priced at £699 inc VAT and is available now in-store and online from Micro Anvika (www.anvika.com/product/asus-u36jc-rx197x-13-3-w7p-4gb-500gb/asu14503) and before the end of June from Comet www.comet.co.uk

About ASUS

ASUS, the world's top 3 consumer notebook vendor and the maker of the world's best-selling and most award winning motherboards, is a leading enterprise in the new digital era.

ASUS designs and manufactures products that perfectly meet the needs of today's digital home, office and person, with a broad portfolio that includes motherboards, graphics cards, optical drives, displays, desktops, Eee Box and all-in-one PCs, notebooks, netbooks, tablet devices, servers, multimedia and wireless solutions, networking devices, and mobile phones.

Driven by innovation and committed to quality, ASUS won 3,398 awards in 2010, and is widely credited with revolutionizing the PC industry with the Eee PC™. With a global staff of more than 10,000 and a world-class R&D team of 3,000 engineers, the company's revenue for 2010 was around US$10.1 billion.

PCI Express cables could take us to 32Gbps speeds by 2013

Posted: 22 Jun 2011 11:16 PM PDT

Thought Thunderbolt was the only superfast interconnect in town? Well, it is and will be for a little while yet, but the PCI Special Interest Group has just held its annual meeting and developer conference in California, where plans for a 32Gbps PCIe cable were revealed. Details are still fluid on precisely what such a connector would look like and do, but the expectation is that it'll be built out of copper wire, will be flatter and thinner than Thunderbolt's rotund construction, and will be able to channel power as well as data through to devices up to 10 feet (3m) away. Targeting consumer applications, and extra skinny tablets and laptops in particular, this cabled variety of PCI Express will start off based on the 3.0 spec in 2013, but will then move on from there to PCI Express 4.0 and, potentially, optical data conveyance. Oh yes, PCIe 4.0 also got announced by the PCI SIG, though that's at least four years away at this point -- no need to sweat about having it in your next motherboard, not yet anyway.

OnLive and Juniper team up on cloud-based services for enterprise

Posted: 22 Jun 2011 10:58 PM PDT

OnLive's MicroConsole may not have exactly taken the video game market by storm just yet, but it looks like the company isn't about to wait any longer to expand its cloud-based empire. Today it announced that it's partnering with Juniper Networks on what it's describing as a "no-compromise, media-rich, enterprise experience." While it's still apparently in the early stages, that solution will combine OnLive's own instant response video compression technology with Juniper Networks' Junos Pulse client, which together promise to make remotely-accessed desktops and applications "indistinguishable from a local one," regardless of the device you're accessing it on (including tablets and OnLive-enabled TVs). Unfortunately, anything much more specific than that -- including any indication of an actual rollout -- remains a bit light for the time being, but the two companies have already demoed the system at the NExTWORK Conference in New York City today, so it certainly seems like it might not be too far off.
Show full PR text
JUNIPER NETWORKS AND ONLIVE PARTNER TO DELIVER INSTANT ACCESS TO ANY APPLICATION, ANYWHERE, ON ANY DEVICE

OnLive's Lag-Free Cloud Computing Technology Leapfrogs Current Remote App Solutions;

Juniper's Networking Infrastructure Enables Unprecedented Cloud Performance

SUNNYVALE & PALO ALTO, Calif. – June 22, 2011 – Juniper Networks (NYSE: JNPR) and OnLive, Inc., the pioneer of on-demand, instant-play video games and applications, today announced they are entering into a strategic partnership under which Juniper will be the exclusive networking provider for OnLive's network infrastructure. Additionally, the two companies plan to jointly develop cloud-based services for the enterprise that will deliver a media-rich, interactive experience to mobile, desktop and presentation devices - instantly, simply and securely from any location.

Powered by Juniper Networks, OnLive would provide consumers and enterprise customers with unmatched performance, security, reliability and true flexibility across both physical and virtual environments. Using OnLive's instant response video compression technology and Juniper Networks® Junos® Pulse client, the experience of remotely-accessed desktops and applications -whether on a PC, Mac, iPad, Android tablet or OnLive-enabled TV or monitor-would be indistinguishable from a local one.

By moving computing functions to the network, OnLive is defining the next generation of cloud computing. OnLive's cloud-based video compression technology has revolutionized the way video games are played, both in the home and on mobile devices, as a user's computer or device becomes nothing more than a means for display and input. By applying this same technology to the enterprise, even media-rich content and bandwidth-intensive applications can be delivered instantly, simply and securely to mobile desktops and devices via the cloud. With an end-to-end infrastructure powered by Juniper Networks, OnLive's new network would not only change the way OnLive's entertainment applications are created, delivered and consumed, but enable the security and robustness required for enterprise applications.

"OnLive's cloud gaming technology places unprecedented demands on network infrastructure, and Juniper is the only network provider that is able to meet these requirements." said Steve Perlman, president and CEO of OnLive. "Juniper's state-of-the-art performance and security also makes them the ideal partner as OnLive extends the same no-compromise cloud hosting technology to enterprise applications, leapfrogging the entire desktop virtualization industry. A remote desktop experience would be the same as a local desktop experience on any connected device, regardless of the application or content, so users could enjoy all the benefits of desktop virtualization without any of the hassles."

"Online gaming is among the most intensive applications in the world where users expect precision and immediate response. It requires a powerful and highly reliable network that doesn't compromise user experience," said Kevin Johnson, CEO of Juniper Networks. "OnLive and Juniper share a commitment to delivering innovative, ground-breaking technologies, and we are excited to partner together to push the boundaries of cloud computing and redefine how rich interactive media are delivered."

Today, OnLive already has an integrated network with Juniper Networks EX Series Ethernet Switches, MX Series 3D Universal Edge Routers and SRX Series Services Gateways that ensure consistency, high performance, reliability and security at scale. To meet the growing demands of its cloud-based infrastructure, OnLive will also deploy:

· Juniper Networks QFabric™ Solution - As OnLive's exclusive data center fabric provider, Juniper will provide OnLive with a superior approach to building and securing its virtualized data centers in California, Texas and Virginia, and enable exponential improvements in data center speed, scale and efficiency.

· Junos Pulse - A simple-to-use, comprehensive solution comprised of secure remote access for mobile devices, mobile device security, and comprehensive device policy enforcement and management, Junos Pulse would enable users of all mobile devices, including smartphones, tablets, laptops and netbooks, to securely access OnLive cloud-based applications.

Through this strategic partnership, Juniper Networks is entering into an agreement with OnLive to jointly collaborate on creating additional value-added services and feature-rich applications using Junos Pulse. As OnLive looks beyond gaming and expands into new markets and platforms, such as enterprise systems, Juniper Networks will provide OnLive with a new network that will transform the economics and experience of networking for its customers.

The OnLive Game Service delivers users the latest high-performance, top-tier games instantly to almost any device, eliminating the need for expensive local consoles or high-end PCs. In addition to availability on almost all PCs and Macs, through partnerships with VIZIO, HTC and others, OnLive expects to be available by the end of 2011 on 25 million Internet TVs, 50 million Blu-ray players and 25 million tablets in the US and the UK. In 2012, OnLive expects to be available on most devices that support video streaming services such as Netflix, making console-class gaming as accessible as movies are today. Juniper's network infrastructure will enable OnLive to scale to this degree of ubiquity while maintaining the absolutely no-compromise performance that video games demand.

About OnLive

OnLive is the pioneer of on-demand, instant-play video game services, delivering real-time interactive experiences and rich media through the Internet. With groundbreaking video compression technology, OnLive harnesses cloud computing to provide the power and intelligence needed to instantly deliver the latest, premium game titles to any HDTV via the OnLive Game System or nearly any PC and Mac via a small browser download. The OnLive Viewer app is available for the iPad and is coming soon for Android tablets. OnLive technology is backed by hundreds of patents and patents pending. The company is headquartered in Palo Alto, California. OnLive investors include Warner Bros., Autodesk, Maverick Capital, AT&T, British Telecommunications (BT), The Belgacom Group and HTC. More information is available at www.onlive.com.

About Juniper Networks

Juniper Networks is in the business of network innovation. From devices to data centers, from consumers to cloud providers, Juniper Networks delivers the software, silicon and systems that transform the experience and economics of networking. Additional information can be found at Juniper Networks (www.juniper.net).

Juniper Networks and Junos are registered trademarks of Juniper Networks, Inc. in the United States and other countries. The Juniper Networks and Junos logos are trademarks of Juniper Networks, Inc. OnLive is a registered trademark of OnLive, Inc. in the United States and other countries. All other trademarks, service marks, registered trademarks, or registered service marks are the property of their respective owners.

ASUS rumored to have 13-inch Android laptop on its mind, NVIDIA expected to provide ARM CPU

Posted: 22 Jun 2011 10:24 PM PDT

Some might argue that ASUS already has an ARM-powered Android laptop in its inventory thanks to the Eee Pad Transformer, however the company's now been identified as planning a more spacious 13-inch notebook device, whose power and pricing could well be even more attractive than the Transformer's. We should naturally be wary of the source here, DigiTimes having a record that's as patchy as the grass at Wimbledon after the first week's play, but the Taiwanese rumormonger says ASUS has already made launch plans for this 13-incher and will be using "NVIDIA's processor" inside. What's intriguing here is that in the paragraph immediately preceding that revelation, DigiTimes mentions quad-core ARM SOCs -- of which the one nearest to release is NVIDIA's Kal-El. Given the non-specificity of which NVIDIA processor we can expect, Kal-El's projected August release date, and the fact that the chip has already figured in an ultraslim Windows 8 prototype laptop, we'd say there's plenty of circumstantial evidence to stimulate dreams of quad-core Android laptop action. Additionally, DigiTimes points out that multiple vendors are gunning to offer ARM-powered notebooks with sub-$299 price points, aiming to gobble up market share with rock bottom pricing. Bring 'em on, we say.

D-Link's Amplifi networking suite keeps the whole mansion connected

Posted: 22 Jun 2011 09:43 PM PDT

Between our TVs, PCs, game consoles, and even refrigerators, most every room of our homes have devices needing an on-ramp to the information superhighway. To keep these gadgets connected, D-Link has debuted its Amplifi home networking equipment to bathe every square foot of your abode in ample bandwidth. There's the $150 HD Media Router 1000 that does 802.11n WiFi at 300 Mbps and has QoS technology to make sure your HD video streams and games are lag-free, plus four Gigabit Ethernet ports and an SD card reader. The Whole Home Router 1000 is $120 and sports similar specs sans the SD slot, but also packs D-Link's SmartBeam technology that tracks devices and "focuses beams of bandwidth" to keep you connected in every room. D-Link's $160 WiFi Booster also uses SmartBeam tech to extend your network's range via the 2.4 and 5 GHz bands and put four more Gigabit Ethernet ports anywhere you choose. Lastly, the Powerline AV 500 Adapter ($100) and Gigabit switch ($200) give you screaming 500Mbps speeds from any electrical outlet. Interested? Well, they're all available now, except for the laggard Whole Home Router 1000, which isn't available until August. PR's after the break.
Show full PR text
D-Link Unleashes AmplifiTM Family of Premium, Home Networking Solutions for Today's Connected Homes

Optimized Routers, Boosters and PowerLine Products Offer Industry-Leading Speeds, Whole Home Coverage and Uninterrupted Connectivity for Gaming, HD and Standard Content in Sleek, Form Factors

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, CA--(Marketwire - Jun 22, 2011) - D-Link today announced its Amplifi™ family of high-performance home networking solutions, designed to offer best-in-class performance for today's demanding connected homes. Optimized for the ever-increasing amount of Internet traffic in homes across the nation, the Amplifi product line includes the HD Media Router 1000 with HD Fuel® (DIR-657) for managing high bandwidth HD traffic and streaming, the Whole Home Router 1000 (DIR-645) and Wi-Fi Booster (DAP-1525) with exclusive SmartBeam™ technology for pushing wireless signals into the farthest corners of homes to deliver whole home coverage, and PowerLine 500 products (DHP-500AV, DHP-501AV, DHP-540) for adding bandwidth over existing electrical wiring.

"There are two main obstacles consumers typically face with today's home networking -- the need for a more powerful network to support HD streaming and signals throughout the home, and expanding Wi-Fi coverage into the farthest corners of the home, essentially having whole home coverage," says Daniel Kelley, associate vice president of consumer marketing, D-Link North America. "D-Link has solved these issues by investing heavily in R&D, and is excited to introduce our new patented technology as part of the Amplifi line of home networking solutions."

The Amplifi family of home networking solutions introduces all-new networking technologies optimized to enable consumers to do it all at once, with uninterrupted connectivity to their entire library of digital content:

Amplifi HD Media Router with HD Fuel®for Premium Digital Entertainment
The Amplifi HD Media Router 1000 with HD Fuel automatically manages traffic flow and optimizes broadband connections to give priority to high-bandwidth entertainment, allowing consumers to watch streaming content on their Boxee Box by D-Link, play online video games with Xbox® 360 or make Skype® calls without the lags or glitches found with standard routers. In addition, the Amplifi line of HD Media Routers allows for multiple media content streams to multiple devices at the same time with uninterrupted performance, including HD video, online gaming and large media file downloads. Featuring up to 300Mbps speed, four Gigabit Ethernet ports, USB SharePort™ Plus, and an SD card slot for accessing HD media and streaming USB devices, this IPv6-ready router keeps consumers in complete control of their digital entertainment.

Amplifi Whole Home Products with SmartBeam™ for Uninterrupted Coverage in Every Corner
The sleek new Amplifi Whole Home products with SmartBeam technology optimize home wireless network bandwidth to handle HD video streams, large media file downloads and online gaming applications for multiple devices, simultaneously anywhere in the home. SmartBeam uses six multi-directional antennas with a patented, sectorized design, to find and track individual devices, then focuses beams of bandwidth to those devices, ensuring a seamless connection anywhere in the home. D-Link's SmartBeam products are ideal for homes or small offices where concrete walls, successive floors in multi-storied buildings, or other architectural hurdles can significantly weaken a wireless signal:

The IPv6-ready Whole Home Router 1000 features up to 300 Mbps speed, four Gigabit Ethernet ports, advanced QoS bandwidth prioritization, SharePort™ Plus for sharing USB devices such as printers or security cameras, and 128-bit security encryption with advanced Wi-Fi Protected Setup for a secure, plug-and-play home network.

The IPv6-ready Amplifi Wi-Fi Booster extends an existing router's wireless signal to deliver uninterrupted coverage to up to four additional devices with no additional configuration using the Gigabit Ethernet ports -- just plug and play. In addition, the Wi-Fi Booster also includes selectable 2.4GHz or 5GHz bands, SharePort Plus and Wi-Fi Protected Setup

PowerLine Products with PowerLine 500 for Access Anywhere
D-Link's PowerLine 500 products use a building's existing electrical wiring to deliver secure, fast connectivity to otherwise hard-to-reach places, such as a basements or attics. With the PowerLine AV 500 Adapter (DHP-500AV), PowerLine 500 Adapter Starter Kit (DHP-501AV), and the PowerLine AV 500 four-port Gigabit Switch (DHP-540), there are no cables to run, holes to drill or wireless signals to configure. Easily plug, play and transform any conventional power outlet into a fully-functioning Ethernet port and your entire home or small office into a wall-to-wall network. Optimized for home entertainment systems or online gaming, the PowerLine HomePlug AV compliant premium products 500Mbps transfer rate to support multiple streams of HD content at blazing fast speeds, while the built-in QoS engine automatically prioritizes Internet traffic, ensuring glitch-free movies and gaming while web surfing and downloads are also in progress.

Availability and Pricing
The Amplifi family of products will be available throughout D-Link's vast network of retail and e-tail outlets in North America, including Fry's and Micro Center, and at the company's online store, http://www.dlinkshop.com. Detailed specifications and information are available online at amplifi.dlink.com and availability and MSRP pricing is as follows:

HD Media Router 1000 (DIR-657) -- available now for $149.99
Wi-Fi Booster (DAP-1525) -- available now for $159.99
Whole Home Router 1000 (DIR-645) -- available in August for $119.99
DHP-500AV Adapter -- available now for $99.99
DHP-501AV Starter Kit (two adapters) -- available now for $159.99
DHP-540 Four-Port Gigabit Switch -- available now for $199.99

Pentax intros Q, world's smallest interchangeable lens digital camera (hands-on video)

Posted: 22 Jun 2011 09:01 PM PDT


Yesterday, the Sony NEX-C3 was the world's smallest interchangeable lens digital camera. It's not anymore. That title now belongs to the Pentax Q. To achieve the camera's incredibly small body size, Pentax had to shrink the sensor as well, making the Q not only the world's smallest interchangeable lens camera (ILC), but also the cam with the world's smallest sensor in an ILC. The Q uses a 12.4 megapixel, 1/2.3-inch backlit CMOS image sensor, manufactured by Sony -- significantly smaller than the 4/3 and APS-C sensors used in Micro Four Thirds and Sony NEX-series cameras, respectively. As image quality is dependent on sensor size, the Q won't be able to compete directly with any other ILC -- instead, its images are most comparable to those you'd capture with a traditional digital compact (which, ahem, don't cost $800).

The Q will ship in late September or early October with a 47mm f/1.9 kit lens for about $800, and will be available in black or white -- abandoning the incredibly diverse color palette offered with other Pentax DSLRs. It will also be compatible with a 27.5-83mm zoom ($300), a 160-degree fisheye ($130), and 35mm and 100mm "toy camera" lenses ($80 each). The ILC will shoot 1080p/30 video with h.264 compression, 5 fps stills, and includes an HVGA-resolution 3-inch LCD and unique pop-up flash. A dedicated bokeh filter makes up for the camera's natural inability to capture images with a shallow depth of field. During our brief hands-on, images captured at up to the Q's highest available sensitivity of ISO 6400 appeared to be usable, at least based on a magnified LCD view (we weren't permitted to capture images to our own SD card). The cam offers traditional DSLR capture modes, in addition a a variety of creative modes and Smart Effect Options, including an HDR capture mode. The version Pentax had on hand wasn't fully baked, but jump past the break for our video walkthrough with a product manager.
Pentax Q Hands-On

Show full PR text
PENTAX UNVEILS THE PENTAX Q: The World's Smallest, Lightest Interchangeable Lens Camera

GOLDEN, CO. (June 23, 2011)... PENTAX Imaging Company has announced the PENTAX Q – the world's smallest and lightest interchangeable lens camera (ILC).* The Q offers the versatility and precision of an advanced DSLR in a body that is significantly smaller than every other digital ILC body available on the market today.

* The world's smallest and lightest digital interchangeable lens system camera, as of June 15, 2011 (based on PENTAX research).

The camera's tiny size, lightweight design, and superior image quality are made possible by an innovative PENTAX-developed imaging system. With a high-resolution 12.4 megapixel, 1/2.3 inch CMOS image sensor, the Q carves out an entirely new camera category that extends beyond traditional digital compact, APS-C or 4/3 digital cameras. The backlit sensor is a highly efficient light-gathering instrument that produces very little noise at high sensitivity levels particularly in low light settings. Further, the new Q lens mount is a perfect match with the new sensor and every interchangeable Q lens is designed for more advanced image quality than may be found on traditional compact digital cameras. This innovative PENTAX design is the foundation of the Q's position as the world's smallest, lightest ILC system with superior image quality.

Several important features of the PENTAX Q include:

• A newly designed PENTAX Q-mount lens system for convenient interchangeability with a variety of specialty Q lenses including prime, zoom, fish-eye and more.
• Exceptional image quality in 12.4 megapixels from the Q's 1/2.3 inch backlit CMOS image sensor. Capable of producing 12 bit DNG RAW and JPG images, the backlit CMOS sensor is a highly efficient light-gathering instrument designed specifically to produce very low noise at high levels of sensitivity.
• Extremely compact, durable, lightweight, scratch resistant magnesium alloy body.
• The power and flexibility of traditional DSLR shooting modes such as Program, Aperture/Shutter Priority, and Metered Manual exposure control as well as highly convenient PENTAX Auto Picture and 21 scene modes for casual shooting, including new Forest and Stage Lighting options.
• A variety of creative modes, Smart Effect options, or camera settings that assign to the Q's Quick Dial located on the front of the camera. Smart Effects modes enhance digital photography by applying a series of effects to images to achieve high quality finishing. Brilliant Color, Vintage Color, Warm Fade, Bold Monochrome, and Water Color are just some of the Smart Effects available and may be assigned on the Q's Quick Dial.
• In-camera HDR capture mode shoots 3 images of varying exposures, blending them to bring out the details in even the darkest shadows and brightest highlights of extreme contrast shots.
• High quality motion video with stunning full 1080p HD clarity at 30 frames per second. The Q processes the full HD video using high quality h.264 compression for superior color and detail and offers creative video effects through custom image modes, digital video filters, and interval shooting.
• A sensor-shift Shake Reduction system with integrated DRII Dust Reduction for blur and dust free images even in low lighting.
• 5 frames per second continuous shooting mode for any fast action setting.
• Effortless bokeh control with the Q's Bokeh Control filter. (Traditionally controlled through a DSLR lens's aperture, bokeh is the out of focus part of the background that helps to emphasize the subject, drawing the viewer's eyes to the most important part of the photo.) The Q offers a fine degree of extra control over image bokeh via an in-camera filter operation.
• Powerful USER modes allow the creative photographer to save a series of favorite camera settings, filters, and custom image modes for instant reuse.
• Shutter speeds range from 1/2000 to 30 seconds for freezing fast action or capturing long nighttime exposures. Bulb mode adds flexibility for low light photography and motion effects.
• A built-in popup flash adds the perfect amount of extra light to an image with a high extension to naturally reduce the redeye effect common to compact cameras. The Q's flash is effective to 23 feet at 200 ISO, and covers a wide angle 28 degree field of view.
• Compatibility with the latest generation SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards for ultra-high capacity storage as well as outstanding image file portability.

Along with the Q, PENTAX introduced the PENTAX 01 Standard Prime kit lens and an optional optical viewfinder. The unifocal standard lens has a focal length equivalent to 47mm in the 35mm format. The lens offers a natural perspective similar to that of the human eye and is ideal as a multipurpose, everyday standard lens for various subjects including landscape and portraiture. With a maximum aperture of F1.9, it performs superbly in dim lighting and may be easily adjusted for bokeh. Incorporating two high grade aspherical optical elements, this lens compensates various aberrations to a minimum.

Featuring high-end optics incorporating special optical glass elements and PENTAX exclusive lens coating technology, this lens delivers beautifully defined, high quality images that are sharp and high contrast even at the edges. The AF motor installed in the lens assures smooth, quiet focusing operation. The lens shutter mechanism allows the PENTAX Q's built-in auto flash to be synchronized to the camera's top shutter speed of 1/2000 second (or 1/250 second when using an accessory flash unit). This lens is also equipped with a built-in ND (neutral density) filter, which comes in handy when shooting with open aperture at bright locations or when using slower shutter speeds.

The shoe-mounted viewfinder attachment is an optional accessory. This External Viewfinder O-VF1 offers outstanding compositional framing, even in the brightest sunlight where viewing an LCD screen is traditionally a challenge. (Note: The Viewfinder offers framing marks for the Standard lens.)

The PENTAX Q will be available in white or black body models and shipped in a Standard Prime lens (available in silver) kit. Initially, the PENTAX Q system will ship in Japan. Anticipated shipping time to the United States is early Fall 2011 at around $800 for the standard lens kit.
The optional shoe-mounted viewfinder will be available at the same time for $249.95 USD. Each may be pre-ordered now on www.pentaxwebstore.com The PENTAX 01 Standard Prime kit lens will not be sold separately. More information is available here: www.pentaximaging.com/news

PENTAX Imaging Company is an innovative leader in the production of a variety of adventure ready digital cameras including weather-resistant digital SLRs and stylish, compact, waterproof cameras, as well as lenses, flash units, binoculars, scopes, and eyepieces. For more than 90 years, PENTAX has developed durable, reliable products that meet the needs of adventurous consumers and businesses. With headquarters in Golden, Colorado, PENTAX Imaging Company is a division of PENTAX of America, Inc.

Hulu Plus for Android is available now... for six devices

Posted: 22 Jun 2011 08:38 PM PDT

The good news is that Hulu Plus for Android is on the market, but the bad news is that you may not be able to install it yet. The official Hulu Blog has just been updated with news that six phones -- Nexus One, Nexus S, HTC Inspire 4G, Motorola Droid II, Motorola Droid X, and the Motorola Atrix -- are on the compatible list with "additional device announcements" due later in the year. While there's some crossover with the list of Netflix-compatible devices, it's hardly complete and many flagship phones are still missing. Here's hoping the tweakers can work their magic on that apk and get it running for the rest of us, whether we're shelling out $7.99 a month or just want to leech some Chappelle's Show eps on a free one week trial. If you can't get it running yourself, check out a quick video demo embedded after the break.

[Thanks, Tyler, Isaac]





Sony's A77 and A65 spied in leaked image, announcement to follow?

Posted: 22 Jun 2011 08:12 PM PDT

First shown nearly a year ago, what appears to be a leaked official photo might finally mean the forever teased A77 is finally on the horizon. If you'll recall, the high-end Alpha was sporting a svelte see-through body, and the only tidbits the Japanese firm would confirm were the 2011 ship date and that all forthcoming Alpha's would have translucent mirrors -- you know, the spiffy kind that enables DSLRs to focus while shooting video. Opportunely, the above pictured image also came with a bevy of specs, which we'll have to assume apply to the pricier A77: a 24 megapixel sensor, 11 point AF, 10 frame per second burst and an ISO of 102,400. Also on the docket is USB 3.0, and a ship date of October. Whether or not the August announcement pans out remains to be seen, but you'll certainly know when we do.

Wyoming wholly commits to Google apps, adds more flair to state's firsts

Posted: 22 Jun 2011 07:32 PM PDT

Milestone-maker may not be the first words that come to mind when you think 'Wyoming,' but consider this: the state lays claim to the first ever national park (Yellowstone), the first national monument (Devil's Tower), and to being first for women's suffrage. Not content to rest on its laurels, Wyoming Governor Matt Mead put on his early adopter hat and marched all ten thousand civil servant soldiers into the Google cloud. It's a major first for both parties, and might even help Google ease the federal government's earlier MS-favoring snub. By switching solely to Google Apps for Government, Mead says the move will save his great territory significant coin, not to mention getting everybody under the Gmail umbrella like Los Angeles did back in 2009. Unintended consequence of the move? The inefficiency of, oh, about nine thousand, nine hundred and ninety-nine workers whiling away their days on Gchat. Check below for official video of the address.

HTC EVO 4G+ official, but is it destined for Sprint?

Posted: 22 Jun 2011 06:46 PM PDT

Well, what do we have here? Hard to say for sure, but it looks like this just might be the rumored Kingdom (or more likely its doublemint twin, the Rider, which showed up in stills this morning) that recently visited the FCC -- basically a CDMA and WiMAX-capable Sensation. Considering that the leaked video is titled "HTC EVO 4G+ preview," and that the handset pictured is cosmetically identical to the EVO 3D except for the camera pod, we're inclined to believe that this might just be destined for Sprint -- although that WiBRO setting means this particular unit is meant for the Korean market. The twin 5 megapixel cameras have been replaced with a single 8 megapixel shooter housed in a similar sized pod, and the 2D / 3D mode slider next to the shutter key now switches between photos and video. Let's just hope we're not dealing with a discarded prototype or an Asia-only model, and that the phone's guts are just as juicy and delicious as its 3D sibling -- complete with qHD display and dual-core 1.2GHz Snapdragon processor.

Update: And just like that, it's official! HTC has just thrown down an official landing page for the EVO 4G+, and according to it, it's a phone that's "everything you can imagine." Bold. Thanks, Christian!

[Thanks, Edwin]

Westinghouse first 3D HDTV hands-on (video)

Posted: 22 Jun 2011 06:14 PM PDT


It's official: everyone has a 3D HDTV. No, not every consumer -- not even close -- but with Westinghouse's official entry into the 3D market earlier this week, nearly every television manufacturer, both large and small, has brought at least one 3D product to market. We took a look at the 47-inch Westinghouse W47S2TCD at the CEA LineShows in NYC today, and were actually somewhat impressed with its performance, especially from a distance of more than six feet. Passive displays still don't offer the same level of quality as 3D sets that use active glasses, but they're often more affordable, and adequate for most consumers. Our biggest issue with this display is with backlight bleed just above the Westinghouse logo, which is especially noticeable with darker content or when navigating through system menus.

The TV carries a MSRP of $1,200, but Westinghouse says to expect a street price of "well below" $1,000, which should help it compete with other budget sets. It uses passive technology and ships with four pairs of glasses, though the manufacturer claims that you should be able to use other polarized glasses, including those RealD specs you'll forget to return after dropping $19 on your next 3D IMAX movie. Jump past the break for a hands-on video from the show floor.
Westinghouse 3D HDTV Hands-On

Merel Mtouch multitouch table hands-on (video)

Posted: 22 Jun 2011 05:27 PM PDT


Multitouch tables haven't exactly hit the mainstream, but price is likely to be a major factor. Merel's Mtouch table brings that familiar Microsoft Surface-like multitouch functionality for a fraction of the price, retailing for $3,995, or about half as much as Surface. The 720p, 32-inch display doesn't sacrifice on power -- a 3.2Ghz quad-core Intel Quad i5 Sandy Bridge processor and dedicated Radeon HD 1GB video card keep the Windows 7-based interface running smoothly -- but the table's display suffers from some uniformity issues, likely due to the pair of super-bright LEDs used to light it.

We spent a few minutes with the Mtouch at the CEA LineShows in NYC, and liked what we saw -- once we got past the lighting issues, which appear slightly exaggerated in the photo above (notice the two bright spots near our subject's fingers). Content is loaded using a web interface, and the table is compatible with a variety of formats, including PDFs, which are displayed as "magazines" with easy-flip pages. The table is in the early stages of production -- just 30 have been made and sold so far, assembled completely at Merel's factory in Yonkers, NY. They are available for purchase now, however, and should be shipped to your door within 30-days of placing an order. Jump past the break as we go hands-on with the Merel Mtouch.
Merel Mtouch Multitouch Table Hands-On

HomePlug and IEEE want our home networks to play nice, talk to each other

Posted: 22 Jun 2011 04:39 PM PDT

HomePlug Powerline Alliance and IEEEHomePlug hasn't exactly struck it big on the home networking scene but, with so many disparate options (none of which play very nice together) it's not hard to see why. The Powerline Alliance is throwing its support behind a new IEEE standard, P1905, that may ease our consumer pain and make the outlet connectivity tech a better fit for our dungeons living rooms. The goal is to create a layer that sits atop the various wired and wireless hookups that blanket our homes and let them easily share data. Bridging the gap between HomePlug, HomePlug AV, Ethernet, WiFi, and MoCA is an ambitious task to tackle, but we've got faith our gadgets can get along.
Show full PR text
HomePlug® Powerline Alliance Announces Support for IEEE P1905 Convergent Digital Home Network Standard
First Standard for Hybrid Home Networks Combining IEEE 1901 / HomePlug AV, Wi-Fi®, MoCA® and Ethernet

Portland, Ore. - June 21, 2011 - The HomePlug® Powerline Alliance (www.homeplug.org), the world's leading industry group for powerline network solutions, today announced its support of the IEEE P1905 working group's efforts to define the first standard for hybrid home networks. A P1905 network would include combinations of stationary home networking devices such as set top boxes, home gateways, Blu-Ray players and televisions, and mobile devices such as laptops, tablets and cellphones.

The IEEE P1905 standard provides an abstraction layer to established powerline, wireless, coaxial cable and Ethernet home networking technologies - IEEE P1901 / HomePlug AV, Wi Fi®, MoCA® and Ethernet. The standard enables consumers and service providers to combine the capabilities of otherwise disparate networks to maximize a home network's overall performance and reliability. IEEE P1905's abstraction layer common interface allows applications and upper layer protocols to be agnostic to the underlying home networking technologies. Packets can arrive and be transmitted over any technology according to quality of service (QoS) priorities. IEEE P1905 also simplifies network setup by providing common setup procedures for adding devices, establishing secure links, implementing QoS and managing the network.

"The hybrid home network is clearly the network of the future - offering the best networking technology to meet the consumer's needs - so IEEE establishing this standard is significant," said Rob Ranck, president of the HomePlug Powerline Alliance. "HomePlug is pleased that the P1905 working group has recognized HomePlug's undisputed leadership in powerline communications solutions by selecting IEEE 1901 as the underlying powerline communications cornerstone of IEEE P1905. Consumers will immediately benefit from enhanced reliability, ease of use and flexibility. For service providers this translates into the promise of reduced installation and support costs. Encompassing the capabilities of the most commonly installed home networking technologies, this standard promises to deliver the maximum level of interoperability."

Several HomePlug member companies are making significant contributions to the development of IEEE P1905, including Broadcom, Cisco Systems, France Telecom, Qualcomm Atheros, Ralink, Sigma Designs, SPiDCOM Technologies and STMicroelectronics. The group made substantial progress in April by approving the technical requirements, architecture and definitions upon which the standard will be based.

About the HomePlug® Powerline Alliance
The HomePlug Powerline Alliance, Inc. (www.homeplug.org) is an industry-led initiative with 65 member companies that creates specifications, marketing and certification programs to accelerate worldwide adoption of powerline networking with HomePlug technology. With HomePlug technology, the electrical wires in the home can now distribute broadband Internet, HD video, digital music and smart energy applications.

The Alliance works with key stakeholders to ensure HomePlug specifications are designed to meet the requirements of IPTV service providers, power utilities, equipment and appliance manufacturers, consumer electronics and other constituents. The HomePlug Certified Logo program is the powerline networking industry's largest Compliance and Interoperability Certification Program and the program has certified over 240 devices

Sponsor members include Broadcom Corporation (BRCM); Cisco (CSCO); Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK); GE Energy, an affiliate of General Electric Co. (NYSE: GE); Qualcomm Atheros (QCOM); Renesas Electronics Corporation (TSE: 6723); SPiDCOM Technologies; and STMicroelectronics (NYSE: STM).

"HomePlug" is a trademark of the HomePlug Powerline Alliance, Inc. in the U.S. and other countries. Other names and brands may be claimed as the property of others.

Listec Video Miniprompter for iPhone hands-on (video)

Posted: 22 Jun 2011 03:51 PM PDT


We record a lot of video, but seldom do we find ourselves shooting in a professional-class studio, with the comforts that go along with it -- namely that ever-so-necessary teleprompter that our broadcast buddies couldn't imagine working without. Soon, you'll be able to teleprompt on the go, with the 4-inch Miniprompter for iPhone or iPod touch from Listec Video. An app displays text in reverse, which is then bounced to the reader using a mirror. We didn't have any trouble reading and following the Miniprompter, even at a distance, and you can adjust speed and position using a remote, which seemed to be MIA at the Listec booth. The sub-$500 (ouch!) setup is compatible with most camcorders and DSLR cameras through the use of interchangeable rings, and should be available in Q3.
Listec Video Miniprompter for iPhone Hands-On

Hulu reportedly retains investment bankers and renews Fox deal, will go on sale soon

Posted: 22 Jun 2011 03:04 PM PDT

Following yesterday's rumor that Hulu had received an a buyout offer from Yahoo, the usual "people familiar with the matter" have informed the LA Times and a reporter for CNBC that the sale process could begin within two weeks. As its owners seek to separate themselves from what is looking more and more like a competitor than a savior, reportedly Guggenheim Partners and Morgan Stanley have been retained and potential bidders have been contacted. One way to make sure anyone is actually interested in buying the site is to strengthen its content licensing deals, and oh-so-coincidentally Variety is reporting Hulu has already reached a new deal to keep the TV shows from Fox flowing. Yesterday we asked for your ideas on who an eventual buyer might be and so far the list includes Google, Amazon, Facebook, Netflix and Pets.com, which should just about cover it.

Rep. Eshoo intros 4G disclosure act, hopes to turn consumers into techies

Posted: 22 Jun 2011 02:39 PM PDT

We're gonna shoot from the hip here -- wireless carriers have gotten a little out-of-hand with their 4G marketing. Even industry standard setter, the ITU, can't figure out a way to keep the story straight. This consumer disinformation loop is exactly what Rep. Anna Eshoo plans to undo with her "Next Generation Wireless Disclosure Act." Like its title says, the bill would force carriers to be absolutely, unfalteringly crystal clear on minimum data speeds, network reliability, accessible coverage maps, and, of course, the technology being used. Think the T-Mobile girl can handle that in thirty seconds? We didn't think so, either. Retailers tried a similar consumer hand-holding effort during the DTV transition, although that came without a regulatory shove. Hit the source for legalese in all its undisturbed glory, and while you wait for Uncle Sam to act, you can clear up any lingering confusion by diving into our primer.

[Image courtesy Going WiMax]
at 12:00 PM

7 comments:

  1. marvellousMay 13, 2019 at 3:52 AM

    www.zonkewap.com is a wap portal that is been redirected to www.waptrick.one portal. This is a free and open platform where users can easily download games, music, videos, Themes, and pictures. When it comes to mobile files zonkewap.com is here to give the best for your mobile.

    ReplyDelete
  2. marvellousMay 14, 2019 at 3:28 AM

    On the zonkewap.com platform user can get free access to download lots of digital files for free. The files on this platform are not just digital file they are mobile supported files. If you are using a mobile device visit zonkewap to download your favorite mobile content.

    ReplyDelete
  3. marvellousMay 20, 2019 at 6:31 AM

    Zamob.co.za is one of the largest mobile web portals in South Africa, where mobile users can download lots of android games, videos, mp3 music and java games all for free.

    ReplyDelete
  4. PreshSeptember 26, 2021 at 6:30 AM

    You did justice to this post. You can get more seeing this

    ReplyDelete
  5. SunriseNovember 16, 2021 at 6:15 AM

    you always give answers to difficult question through your blog. thank you for sharing. you can also see more

    ReplyDelete
  6. PreshDecember 8, 2021 at 12:36 PM

    If you need a good headphone now, try Apple Airpod Max Headphones

    ReplyDelete
  7. jameswealthMarch 14, 2022 at 5:45 AM

    Airline Funded Pilot Training Travelling Insurance USA

    ReplyDelete

Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)

My Blog List