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Friday, June 24, 2011

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Apple confirms iCloud web apps, impending death of iWeb and iDisk

Posted: 24 Jun 2011 11:48 AM PDT

MobileMe's complete disappearance is still a good ways off, but it's safe to say that the transition to iCloud is well underway at Cupertino (and Maiden, North Carolina, for that matter). A brief FAQ has emerged today over at Apple's site, detailing answers to a few burning questions about the future of MobileMe. As stated before, all MobileMe users who had an account prior to June 6, 2011 will see their service extended through June 30, 2012 at no extra cost, but what's new here is the amount of functionality that'll also be available from a website. Starting at an undisclosed time "this fall," icloud.com will allow users to access Mail, Contacts, Calendar, Bookmarks, Find My iPhone and Back to my Mac, relieving fears that iCloud was severing ties with the browser altogether. Unfortunately, iWeb, Gallery and iDisk aren't making the cut, and while it seems that previously stored files will still be accessible, we wouldn't count on being able to add anything new a year from now. Hit the source for the rest of the nitty-gritty.

BlackBerry Bold 9900 preview! (video)

Posted: 24 Jun 2011 11:00 AM PDT

RIM's BlackBerry 9900 is the device that the BlackBerry diehards have been hoping, wishing, and waiting for since the original Bold launched way back in 2008. However, this time around the company has added in a capacitive touchscreen, swapped the trackball of yesteryear for an optical trackpad, and slimmed the whole thing down into a 10.5mm thick package. We were lucky enough to get a prototype device from our friends over at Negri Electronics, and have manhandled the thing till we were blue in the face. Head on past the break for an exclusive preview of the device RIM is praying will stalwart its competitors until the first round of QNX-equipped devices lands in 2012.
BlackBerry Bold 9900 preview!



The Bold 9900 bears a striking resemblance to the original "big Bold" 9000, and fans of that device's large but sturdy form factor will absolutely love the 9900. Gone is the faux-leather back cover, which has been replaced with a slick carbon fiber-esque flat battery door. Interestingly, whereas the entire back of the device could be removed and swapped on the 9000, only the part of the housing that covers the battery itself comes off on the 9900. The carbon fiber midsection is surrounded by soft touch black rubber finishes that taper the outer edge of the device slightly, resulting in a really nice overall form factor.

This Berry's front face is split between a 640 x 480-pixel capacitive touchscreen up top and a full-sized QWERTY keyboard down below. The screen size has been bumped to 2.8-inches from the 2.6-incher on the 9000. The display is bright and vibrant, and boasts superb viewing angles and clarity. As with the Torch 2, touch sensitivity also seems to be quite good, with the screen registering even slight touches on its nearly edge-to-edge surface. Overally, we're quite impressed with the screen on the 9900, as we were with the Torch 2's.

So far as we can tell, the keyboard is the same size as that of the OG Bold, though the buttons seem to be a bit more 'clicky.' It's kind of difficult to explain, but the keyboard feels more firm than mushy -- but that's not necessarily a bad thing. We also noticed that the four main navigation buttons for the BB OS (send, menu, back, end / power) are all flush with the device and backlit, rather than having splits between then. There's also the now ubiquitous trackpad located front and center, and it has a nice white backlighting that helps make it stand out against this BlackBerry's murdered-out facade. When the screen shuts off for standby mode, the trackpad glow rem for an extra few seconds before fading back into darkness.

On the inside, the 9900 boasts a 1.2GHz processor, which is bumped from the 624MHz of the 9780. In fact, we're pretty sure that the guts of the 9900 are identical to those of the Torch 2 -- just crammed into a thinner, non-sliding enclosure. We've known the specs on this bad boy for a while now, but after playing with one for day or so, we're impressed with the real world translation into performance. It's noticeably more snappy than current BlackBerry devices on the market, and the fading transitions of BlackBerry 6.1 OS 7 didn't seem to stutter in regular use. Of course, this is still BETA software -- and from what we've heard, our build is quite a bit older than what's currently on demo devices -- so performance is subject to change.

A five megapixel shooter is located on the backside of the device, but it's been relocated to the upper left corner as opposed to the centered position on the 9000. Again we're convinced that this camera is identical to the one in the Torch 2, which means it's capable of capturing 720p HD video. If you want to see some performance of this shooter, head back to our Torch 2 preview -- what you get on the 9900 isn't vastly different.

BlackBerry 7 OS screenshots

The 9900 will ship with BlackBerry 7 OS, and we won't bore you with the details of this marginal upgrade to the OS. (We went over many of them when we showed you the Torch 2). We will say that the performance improvements we noted on that device seem to have made their way to the 9900, and that many of the mundane tasks that used to bring up the dreaded hourglass of doom no longer do so.

Overall, the 9900 is definitely a sexy slab of circuitry, but we still can't skirt around the fact that RIM has been making the same device for years now. We're glad to see the improved specs and solid hardware, but it doesn't detract from the fact that the OS is virtually unchanged except for some visual flair and new APIs. We're hopeful that despite rumors to the contrary, RIM will be able to get this device out the door during its promised "summer" time frame, and we know it won't be good if it misses that self-imposed deadline. Still, the fact of the matter is that RIM desperately needs to get something radically new out the door as soon as humanly possible, or else users will continue flocking to other platforms. It hopes it has a winner on its hands with the 9900, and while we'll reserve judgment until the thing finally ships to end users, we do think it's yet another step in the right direction.

[Thanks, Ryan]

Droid 3 headed to Best Buy on July 14th?

Posted: 24 Jun 2011 10:28 AM PDT

Red-eye alert, all ye Droid faithful! A leaked screenshot over at Droid Attic shows Motorola's worst kept secret -- the Droid 3 -- supposedly hitting Best Buy's shelves on July 14th. With all the unofficial leaks we've seen in the past few months, we have a pretty good idea of what this successor's got running under its QWERTY slider. Favoring a dual-core OMAP 4430 processor, a rear-facing 8 megapixel cam capturing video at 1080p, and baked with latest Gingerbread update, this black block of does shouldn't disappoint. Make note, VZW's new plans go into effect one week prior to this, so if you're clinging to that grandfathered plan, pick this one up off-contract, and cross your toes it gets an LTE surprise.

[Thanks, fuzzball]

Fujifilm X100 gets firmware update, 22 tweaks make the best even better

Posted: 24 Jun 2011 09:54 AM PDT

The retro X100 brought out all our kleptomaniacal tendencies when we first went hands-on, and it has since impressed virtually every other lucky soul who's come into contact with its build quality and groundbreaking integration of a big APS-C sensor within a compact body. But, just as you often find in extremely beautiful humans, the camera's brains were slightly haywire: in particular, it tended to forget or confusingly alter crucial ISO, dynamic range, macro and drive settings when shifting between shooting modes. Fortunately though, many of these niggles can now be nuked by downloading firmware update v1.10 at the source link. The update promises a total of 22 fixes and modifications, which are listed in full in the PR after the break. Of course, some annoying issues will remain outstanding with this $1,200 shooter, including slow focus-by-wire MF and strangely buried menu settings. We don't know if they'll ever be fixed, but the next time we get hold of one it'll still be a morality-pounding wrench to give it back.
Show full PR text
FinePix X100 Firmware Update Ver.1.10

Applicable model: FinePix X100

• Detail of the update
The firmware update Ver.1.10 incorporates the following issues.
The contents of the owner's manual will be partly changed along with this update.

Please check them in detail.

1. The following functions can be rocked during shooting by holding down [MENU / OK] button over 3 sec. DRIVE / Flash / White balance / Macro (set on the Command Dial - 4 direction key)
2. "CORRECTED AF FRAME" menu is added in "SET-UP" menu (the last line on menu page 6) to display additional AF frame (corrected AF frame for reducing parallax) which can be effectively used for macro shots. (Factory default value is set to "OFF")
3. Adjustment in1/3 step increment for shutter speed or aperture setting is enabled in Shutter-Priority AE and Aperture-Priority AE mode, on top of those in Manual Exposure mode. Shutter-Priority AE : Adjustment is controlled by rotating the command dial Aperture-Priority AE : Adjustment is controlled by moving left / right on the command control lever
4. In the post-view mode (display after shooting), focused area is magnified in the LCD (EVF) display when the command control lever is pressed. Cf. "IMAGE DISP." Setting must be set to "CONTINUOUS",
5. Setting of the role for "Fn" button is enabled by holding down "Fn" button over 3 sec.
6. Actual ISO sensitivity for shooting is displayed just after pressing shutter button halfway, when "ISO AUTO CONTROLL" is set to ON.
7. When "eye sensor" is activated by pressing "VIEW MODE" button, "EYE SENSOR" is displayed on EVF / OVF or LCD just a while to notice the status.
8. Macro mode ISO sensitivity, Drive mode, Dynamic range, Self-timer mode, flash mode is maintained even if shutter speed setting or aperture setting is changed. Also, even after changing viewing mode into shooting mode or turning of the camera, these values are maintained.
9. The size of focus frame set through viewing EVF / LCD is maintained even after changing display mode between OVF and EVF (LCD).
10. When "SHUTTER SOUND" is chosen, each shutter sound is performed in each menu setting.
11. In viewing mode, the last viewed shot is maintained as even after changing into shooting mode. Cf. After another image is shot after viewing former image, memory of viewing the image is cancelled and the last shot is displayed as the latest image.
12. When the aspect ration of the image size is set to 16:9, the line of bright frame line on OVF is displayed with aspect ratio 16:9.
13. Viewing mode with Photo Information on EVF / LCD is maintained even if another image is shot. On top of this issue, deleting picture directly is enabled even in viewing with Photo information by pressing the command dial up, or MENU operation is also enabled.
14. Occasionally, preview image on EVF / LCD after pressing the shutter halfway might be darker than live view, according to aperture setting or brightness of shooting target. This phenomenon is improved.
15. When "DISP. CUSTOM SETTING" is set to OVF or EVF / LCD, the setting value is maintained even after customizing the menu.
16. Even for only RAW data recording mode, "RED EYE REMOVAL" setting is selectable among ON or OFF.
17. In MF (manual focus) setting with OVF mode, OVF viewing is activated after pressing shutter half way, even if "FOCUS CHECK" (magnifying center of the image) is displayed in EVF by pressing the center of the command control lever.
18. Displaying period after pressing each command dial (Macro / Flash) is prolonged from 1.5 sec into 2.0 sec for confirming correctly.
20. For resuming from AUTO POWER OFF setting, the shutter release button was required to hold down halfway for a few second. For quicker operation, resuming is activated by just pressing the button.
21. Image quality captured by Velvia / ASTIA mode is improved on mainly shadow tone (dark area), when dynamic range is set to 200% or 400%.
22. When "OVF POWER SAVE MODE" is set to ON and "Fn" button is set to "MOVIE RECORDING", the camera may be unstable occasionally. This phenomenon is improved.
23. Histogram display on OVF during exposure compensation is improved.

The firmware up date ver.1.01 incorporates the improvement against inadequate operation shown in the following.
1. If the images are shot with ISO Bracketing mode when "QUICK START MODE"(*1) is set to "ON" and turn off the camera,the camera cannot be turned on again even with ordinary operation.
*1 Menu of "QUICK START MODE" is set to "OFF" as factory-default value.

Precaution
1. If firmware updating fails, the camera may no longer operate correctly in some cases. Carefully read the notes provided here.
2. Always use the fully-charged NP-95 battery when updating the firmware as a basic manner. Never turn the camera off or attempt to use any of the camera controls while the firmware is being overwritten.
3. Firmware updating requires approximately 90 seconds.
4. Once the firmware has been updated, the previous version cannot be restored.

Engadget Primed: how wireless and inductive charging works

Posted: 24 Jun 2011 09:00 AM PDT

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


The world of wireless is dragging us into the 21st century kicking and screaming. Our treatise on NFC was a great sneak peek into how our future will play out over the next five years, but we're also seeing other types of suave new tricks coming out as short-range wireless technology creeps closer to the mainstream. Wireless is the crux of convenience that will keep us calm enough to make our way through this speed-demon culture. It didn't take long for our quest to obtain simpler and faster everything to become an obsession, and it shows no signs of stopping; on the contrary, it's only speeding up exponentially at a rate even manufacturers have a hard time keeping up with.

Wireless charging is making some serious headway in public mindshare. Once confined to toothbrushes and other simple household items, it's now a handy means of powering phones (HP's Touchstone, for example) and media players, and it'll soon be ready to charge up our notebooks and cameras at our command. Are we sure this is the future, or will this just be a passing fad? Why should it matter? Read on after the break to get the air-conditioned answers to those burning questions.



Table of Contents
What is wireless charging?
Wireless charging standards
Health implications
Where can inductive charging take us?
Besides inductive charging, what else is there?
Wrap-up

What is wireless charging?
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The principle of wireless charging has been around for over a century, but only now are we beginning to recognize its true potential. First, we need to be careful about how liberal we use "wireless" as a term; such a word implies that you can just walk around the house or office and be greeted by waves of energy beamed straight to your phone. As Space Age-ish as it sounds, that kind of stuff actually is in the works, but it's still a long ways from getting to market -- and even further from turning into a mainstream solution. So for the universe as we see it today, the word merely refers to not using cords. Ginormous difference.

We're referring, largely, to inductive charging -- the ability to manipulate an electromagnetic field in order to transfer energy a very short distance between two objects (a transmitter and receiver). It's limited to distances of just a few millimeters for the moment, but even with this limitation, such a concept will allow us to power up phones, laptops, keyboards, kitchen appliances, and power tools from a large number of places: in our homes, our cars, and even the mall. And that's just for starters.


Sounds so 21st century, doesn't it? We've seen this "advanced" technology in elementary gizmos like electric toothbrushes and shavers for decades, but it wasn't until 2009 when companies like Palm and Powermat began generating a fair amount of public interest for some of our everyday devices. The major drawbacks so far? The cost of the accessories are almost as much as the phones themselves; they've typically involved bulky cases that barely fit into your pocket, and even now are compatible with very few devices.

This isn't always going to be the case. We're starting to notice a rapidly growing trend heading directly into cord-cutting. In the last year we've witnessed tremendous breakthroughs in clever services like "the cloud," mobile devices syncing media and backups via WiFi, and NFC. Bluetooth, as another example, has been around for a much longer time but is still increasing in popularity. With such ideas rapidly becoming not only reality but commonplace, wireless charging now has some serious clout with Joe the Plumber. The three handsets on Verizon's LTE lineup now offer dedicated back covers to lead the charge (pun intended) to general consumer acceptance, and dozens of other companies are working to integrate inductive charging surfaces into everyday items like furniture, desktops, or the middle of your car. This tremendous opportunity extends into so much more than just phones, but you have to start somewhere, right?


In a nutshell, inductive charging involves a surface that acts as the transmitter, with coils built-in underneath to transfer energy to a willing receiver. This could be a phone, laptop, a can of soup. There's intrigue in this type of charging because as long as you have the proper sleeve or battery cover attached, you can easily charge your gizmo just by placing it on a compatible pad. And maybe -- just maybe -- we won't always have to rely on additional (and typically bulky) accessories to make this happen.

It's a great idea, but one reason why this wireless tech has been restricted to nothing but a glorified conceptualization (until recently, anyways) is because no standard had been set. Each company was left to fend for itself, coming up with its own proprietary accessories for individual products. The bill of materials can rack up quickly when there's no standard and no interoperability, so how can such a ragtag operation really succeed?


Wireless charging standards
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Enter the Wireless Power Consortium (WPC), the masterminds behind Qi (pronounced 'Chee'). Sound familiar? If so, that's probably because it's getting into everything. Qi is a set of guidelines for inductive charging units that WPC is hoping will become the universal standard. It's rounded up 84 manufacturers, semiconductors, and telecom providers under its wing so far, a number which no other organizations have come close to matching. Qualcomm and CEA are still busy nailing down their own standards, both of which are set to hit the market sometime this year, so Qi is the current default. Even when the WPC finally has official competition, it's got an astronomical head start.

With so many businesses hopping on the bandwagon, this leaves more room for innovation and specialization of products. Interoperability of this magnitude can offer a large number of benefits: it's easier to market a product when you're backed up by an established protocol that everybody else uses, and the cost to consumers is much lower to get set up since everything is compatible. In a niche market, proprietary (or standalone) product lines are much more difficult for consumers to get behind. But once the vast majority of legit tech companies -- Samsung, HTC, Motorola, Energizer, Nokia, and Sony Ericsson are among WPC's list of members -- begin integrating Qi into phones, laptops, DSLR cameras, keyboards, kitchen countertops, and furniture, chances are you're a lot more tempted to buy a Qi-compatible product than something from a random yahoo. Think about it this way: we'd be much more inclined to board a train if it already has a destination, passengers, and enough manpower to get somewhere, rather than one that's empty and just sitting around waiting for people to show up. The Qi train looks entirely more salacious.


Our earlier video and the image above will hopefully demonstrate why interoperability matters; we were able to take an Energizer Qi-compatible charging pad, and use it to power up both a Samsung Droid Charge (with the inductive battery cover attached) and an iPhone 3GS with the Energizer sleeve. It doesn't matter which company made the product, any item that's Qi-certified will do the trick.

The WPC set certain guidelines for Qi because it not only wants to keep everything compatible, it's also ensuring its members will comply with certain safety rules, software guidelines, and other procedures that make it the most efficient charging option available. When your phone is plugged into a standard wall outlet, it's still soaking up way too much power even when the battery is full. Qi has set a guideline to cut the consumption levels down in this case. As a side effect, however, this method limits the amount of power transfer taking place even during a regular charge, which means it takes a bit longer to power something up completely. Fortunately, the transmitter and receiver can even send data to each other to determine if a battery is full and needs to stop charging. There are other useful ways Qi devices can take advantage of this ability, which we'll touch upon shortly.

When the standard was established last year, the WPC came out with only one power setting for Qi: low. With a maximum power output of 5W, the low standard's only enough to power the smaller gadgets -- phones, media players, and anything else that doesn't require much of a charge. The medium setting, currently in the works, will take care of anything in the 5W - 120W range like notebooks, netbooks, tablets, and cameras. According to Pavan Pudipeddi on TI's battery management solutions team, it's taking longer to get this standard wrapped up, due to a conundrum that's taking extra time to solve: the difference between 5 and 120 is substantial, so how does a Qi surface tell between tablets (that require 25-30) and power-hungry notebooks (65-90)?

By no means is Qi the only wireless charging standard in development, but it definitely has a head start over the competing organizations. Here's a few of its main competitors:

WiPower: This standard under development by Qualcomm involves near-field inductive charging with flexible couplings, so that it can transmit up to two inches (compared to Qi's few mm distance). It can also cover an 5- x 3-inch area so that multiple devices can fit on one square, rather than requiring one coil per device. The longer distance will be a strong advantage for WiPower, as it means you'd just have to stick a coil underneath a table or desk instead of taking Qi's method of integrating it directly into the surfaces -- a much more expensive approach, to be sure. This standard also offers a more flexible range, so you can take your laptop and move it around a little without it being stuck on your desk in one specific spot. Once it launches, it could prove to be a worthy adversary to keep Qi from floating away with the "Universal Standard" trophy.

UL: Underwriters Laboratories announced last year that it was building its own low-power inductive charging standard called UL 2738. Catchy name, right? There's a tricky thing about this particular standard -- it will be mandated. This may sound like a familiar idea to you; if you've taken a close look at power supplies or light products, you may have seen a UL label printed somewhere on them. The standard is wholly safety-based, which means it's completely separate from the other protocols. Fortunately, everyone can co-exist with the UL in perfect harmony. We can't stress enough how crucial this is to paving the way to the tech's future; wireless chargers that need mandated certifications from the UL are a huge indicator that there is a very strong interest in this type of service becoming mainstream, available on every street corner.

CEA: Similarly, the CEA created the Wireless Charging Working Group to begin work on its own standard, which should be ready to be submitted to the CEA management board by the end of this year, and then on to get approval from the IEEE. Its guidelines will be much broader in scope than the WPC and include a wide range of technologies. Also, in a similar fashion to UL, this particular standard will be inclusive of other protocols, and several members of the WPC -- such as Qualcomm, Intel, GM, Powermat, and Motorola -- have joined with this working group.

As a side note, we could only find one company that has pledged support and membership with all four major protocols: Powermat. This won't mean its products will change from its proprietary charging method and become universal per se, but it does opens up the door for it to work in conjunction with these protocols and partner with multiple manufacturers. It also offers the company additional flexibility if any change in strategy is necessary.


Health implications
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A huge point of concern when developing these kinds of standards is how it will affect our health. When thinking about wireless, it's easy to envision radioactive waves zapping us as they float around in the air -- and we have every right to know if this type of charging will cause us any type of harm. In the case of inductive charging, however, we won't need to worry about trying to duck the attack of invisible rays. The WPC established guidelines to ensure its products won't expose us to levels of radiation or ionization that could cause any harm to human tissue.

As an example, the WPC quotes the ICNIRP, a scientific committee that has published its own guidelines on exposure limits. It states: "there is no substantive evidence that adverse health effects, including cancer, can occur in people exposed to levels at or below the ICNIRP limits." According to the studies conducted by this committee, so long as Qi and the other standards see to it that products don't exceed the max exposure, we shouldn't be concerned. Check out More Coverage at the bottom to get more details on these studies.


Where can inductive charging take us?
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In the here and now, all inductive charging seems to do is come up with a clever way to power up our phones. But looking past the immediate horizon, there's a whole new universe of possible ideas on how to add convenience to our lives. Just the fact that these transmitters and receivers could send data -- not just energy -- back and forth to each other opens up a myriad of opportunities. Let's break some of these ideas down.

In the home:
  • Use your Qi-compatible kitchen counter to power your George Foreman grill, a blender, or boil a pot of water. The sensors in the counter work to keep the pot boiling, even though the surface itself is cool to the touch. If the pot needs to boil for ten minutes and then simmer for two, you'll be able to program it to do so without need for manual adjustments.

  • Grab a can of soup and place it on the same inductive countertop. The can has an embedded receiver; once it heats up to its desired temperature, a light on the can flashes red, indicating that it's ready to eat.
  • Integrate Qi charger pads into the desktop in your office or study, and use them to power up your computer monitors, keyboard and mouse, and DSLR. As your camera charges, it sends a signal telling the Qi to commence syncing your images via WiFi to your computer.
  • Install a puck-sized Qi charger into your furniture, and use it to power up your Kindle or tablet as you get more and more engrossed in your latest novel.

In the car:
  • Courtesy of Powermat, several 2012 models made by General Motors will have wireless charging pads embedded somewhere inside the car for easy access, such as the center console or right in between the front seats. There's a good chance we'll begin seeing Qi-compatible charging pads built into specific cars as well.
  • As demonstrated by Fulton Innovation at CES 2011, we may also begin seeing electric-powered vehicles get powered up via a manhole-sized charging pad. Not only would this be great in your garage, you'd also be able to top off your car's battery in special parking spots at the mall or other public venues. With these, you'd pay a certain rate to charge your car as you finish your shopping or grab a bite to eat and control these payments through a smartphone app.
  • When shown off in January, Fulton claimed this form of charging was 80 percent efficient at the time, and with some adjustments this number could get bumped up to as high as 89 percent. This isn't too bad, compared to the 96 percent efficiency seen in wired cars.

In the office:
  • Imagine a conference room in which the table is hooked up with Qi. Every person's laptop can be getting fully charged during the presentation, eliminating the need to have several surge protectors or power outlets scattered up and down the room with dozens of accompanying cords. One seat at the head of the table would be set up to control the projector; the presenter sets his or her laptop on this charging point and it mirrors the computer screen onto the projector.
In the store:
  • At the grocery store, you tell a smartphone app which items you need to pick up. The app not only shows you which aisle it's located on, each product would sit on top of a Qi pad that triggers an electrolumiscient label on the item, lighting it up as you approach it. This could be done with any item for any reason -- if a product is on sale, for instance. There's a whole lot of great marketing opportunities available thanks to inductive charging units.
  • Milk could flash different colored labels when it gets closer to (and eventually reaches) its expiration date, making it much easier for employees to identify and get rid of it.

In public:
  • If you're heading to the coffee shop, chances are you're bringing your laptop or tablet. Having charging pads embedded into the tables will keep you from lugging extra cords around, leaves extra room for you (and others) to enjoy, and keeps others from tripping on your wires. Your lawyer will thank you.
  • The same goes for airports, where Qi is already starting to get integrated into seats and tables. If you've done a fair amount of traveling, it's no secret that open outlets are the airport equivalent of a unicorn, so adding extra places in the terminal for us to charge our phones and laptops wirelessly will be a huge incentive to buy. And just to take things a step further, how wonderful would it be to take your netbook onto the plane with you and have a way to charge it up wirelessly during the flight?
A lot of these scenarios sound incredibly tantalizing, but we're likely still at least a couple years away from experiencing most of them. Some may never even happen at all, and others are actually ready to go (Powermats are already installed in a few airports, for instance). Regardless, we're going to see a huge spike in interest over the next two years because standards will have been finalized, manufacturers are starting to embed these types of chargers in their products, and we'll begin noticing Qi logos popping up in airports, cars, and coffee shops. It's basic marketing: the more visible it is to the public eye, the quicker it will be adopted and accepted.

To be honest, we're not going to see as much value in forking out all this extra cash just to charge our handheld gadgets in a cool way, but the trend has to start growing somewhere. Phones and media players are the natural places to begin because it's a low price point that has high market saturation potential, which will help the average Joe / Jane become informed. Wireless charging units won't be too expensive to integrate directly into handheld devices -- at least, once it starts picking up speed and more units get ordered. It'll be a different game when a multitude of Qi-compatible consumer products flood the market and significantly reduce the manufacturing cost.


Besides inductive charging, what else is there?
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We get it -- inductive charging may not be so exciting, especially right now as it involves clunky sleeves and other expensive accessories. While standards such as Qi and WiPower are sure to improve power efficiency and cost as they continue developing, there will always be the limiting factor of short distances. That's fine for kitchen appliances and desktop computers, but let's face it: for phones and other handheld devices, it doesn't really add that much extra convenience to our lives if we can't actually pick them up and use them while they're getting charged "wirelessly."

Magnetic induction is a step in the right direction and has the capability of doing all the things you read about above, but it can only take us so far. Several other methods of wireless charging are currently in development, however, all of which can transmit varying degrees of power over longer distances.

WiTricity: Originally founded and designed by a team at MIT in 2007, WiTricity relies on long-field magnetic resonance to transfer energy over much longer distances than induction. Instead of millimeters or inches, it has the ability to stretch out as much as eight feet. While some efficiency is lost as you move further away from the power source, it still exceeds 95 percent power efficiency for devices within a couple feet. Toyota announced a partnership with WiTricity in April to begin working on using this longer-distance resonance technology to power up its vehicles, but no timeframe was set on when this capability may be available.


Powercast: Using a creative technique to take advantage of radio waves, Powercast has found a way to grab RF transmissions and convert them into DC power. The idea is to install a transmitter somewhere in the house that broadcasts RF energy in the 850-950MHz range, which an embedded sensor can pick up and convert into a trickle charge from up to 40 feet away. It can also technically grab any other errant RF waves that happen to wander by. The shortcoming here is that government regulations limit the amount of power that can be emitted using RF to 3-4W, which restricts its use to more low-power applications like humidity and light sensors, keyboards, flashlights, and GPS modules. The trickle charge that Powercast transmitters use would be too little for power-hungry devices.

Powerbeam: This alternative uses optical "beams" to transmit energy wirelessly up to 40 feet away. Much like Powercast, the amount of energy that can be transmitted currently is around 5W, so it's great for powering up lights, security cameras, digital picture frames, and other smaller devices. It technically can charge devices up to 10W, but don't plan on using this tech for anything larger than a phone or tablet -- not efficiently, anyway. It's great for putting objects in hard-to-reach places that you wouldn't have otherwise considered; however, one huge disadvantage is that since it involves a beam of optical energy, it doesn't go through walls, and the power gets cut off if an object moves in between the transmitter and receiver. Still, this would definitely come in handy for large rooms.

RCA Airpower: Very little information has been brought to light in the past year about this particular technique, but RCA has been said to be working on a wireless charging solution that could grab and harness the little bits of WiFi energy floating around and convert it into power. If this does come to market, we'd likely see it first come out in portable chargers.

There are tons of creative ways we can power up all of our portable gear. Due to limitations and inefficiencies, most of these techniques wouldn't see the light of day for anything that requires anything more than a trickle of power, but the hamster wheels are turning now and we imagine this is only the beginning of what the cunning mind can come up with.


Wrap-up
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Wireless charging is coming, and we absolutely love what the future holds for us because of it. The real potential, however, lies beyond just placing phones on nifty pads. As a first-gen service, the existing equipment is too expensive and there's too many bulky parts to go along with it; once it's developed and proven, however, we'll barely remember how we even lived when we were restricted to cords -- after all, those things were so 2010.

Special thanks to Powermat, Energizer, Fulton, TI, and the WPC for their assistance in our research

Microsoft updates Hotmail with more signature options, Gmail and Yahoo Mail keyboard shortcuts

Posted: 24 Jun 2011 08:47 AM PDT

Okay, it's not as titillating as the time Microsoft added conversation view to Hotmail, but the outfit did just freshen up its email service with a handful of helpful tweaks. Topping the list is an assortment of shortcuts, including the ability to right click a message to reply, reply all, or forward (you could already do this for other things, like marking something as unread). Hotmail also now responds to some additional Gmail- and Yahoo Mail-specific keyboard shortcuts, such as "#" for deleting messages -- a Gmail trick. And the company is none too subtle about admitting it wants the service to be user-friendly for folks if -- or when -- they switch from Google or Yahoo. Rounding out the batch of improvements, you get an easy way to recover deleted emails, an improved back button, HTML5-fueled speed improvements, and the option of changing your default font signature -- something we can't believe Hotmail has been missing until now. Hit the source link for the full spill, and find a short demo video after the break.

Wireless Back-Up Camera for the Magellan RoadMate checks your six

Posted: 24 Jun 2011 08:25 AM PDT

Most of us can get by with occasionally frequently checking our rear view mirror, but many bigger vehicles don't offer quite the same visibility. Hence the market for bumper cams in general and for Magellan's new Wireless Back-Up Camera in particular. The $150 add-on exploits the 7-inch LCD on your RoadMate 1700 or 9055, thereby avoiding the clutter of an independent system. The waterproof and dustproof camera fixes to your license plate and connects to a transmitter in your trunk, which then beams the feed to a receiver attached to your GPS. The system activates automatically when you go into reverse and boasts a 120-degree field of view, 45-degrees of vertical angle adjustment and a 45-foot range. The PR with full details is just a click away. Oh, and it helps if you remember to brake.
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Magellan Introduces Wireless Back-Up Camera for RoadMate Safety Series GPS Units

SANTA CLARA, Calif. (22 June, 2011) /PRNewswire/ – Magellan GPS today announced the launch of a Back-Up Camera companion product for its RoadMate® safety series car navigation units that will help drivers reverse and park more safely. Combining this camera with a Safety Series GPS navigator expands Magellan's focus on safety and security to the full time you are in your car. It starts when the Back-Up Camera helps you safely reverse out of your driveway, continues through your commute with premium GPS navigation features, and does not end until the Back-Up Camera helps you park the car without damage or stress and you finally shut off the ignition.

The Magellan Wireless Back-Up Camera attaches to the vehicle's rear license plate and transmits images directly to the expansive 7" high resolution screen of a RoadMate 1700 or RoadMate 9055 GPS device. When the car is put into reverse, the GPS navigator will switch from map to rear-view mode, enabling drivers to view what is below the rear window.

The Back-Up Camera is both dustproof and waterproof to IP67 standard, and features a wide-angle viewing lens that provides a 120-degree viewing area behind the vehicle. The transmitter, which sits in the car's trunk, is also water resistant (to IPX4 standard). With a 45-foot range and a 45 degree camera vertical adjustment, the transmitter is adaptable for most vehicles, SUVs and RVs.

"The Magellan Wireless Back-Up Camera adds a substantial level of safety and security to your drive. Back-Up Cameras have proven to be useful devices in helping drivers get a more complete picture of what's behind them – such as small children or pets in the driveway – and helping them back into narrow, parallel parking spots. Combined with the confidence that a navigation device provides, the RoadMate with Back-Up Camera help you leave, arrive and park safely," said Mike Wagner, Senior Director, Product Marketing for Magellan GPS.

The Magellan Wireless Back-Up Camera kit comes complete with a license plate mountable camera, transmitter, wireless receiver, vehicle power adapter, installation hardware, and instructions. It is available at Amazon.com and automotive specialty shops, and retails at a MSRP of $149.99.

WiFi Baby 3G review, or: How we learned to stop worrying and love a surveillance camera

Posted: 24 Jun 2011 08:02 AM PDT

Obsolescence. Its avoidance is the biggest problem facing any gadget nerd. This affliction, this curse that disables so many would-be tablet and smartphone buyers, only intensifies for those of us who somehow manage to procreate. See, newbie reproducers, temporarily insane from an overblown sense of paternal concern, will pay just about anything for products promising to make their new baby healthier or happier, regardless of the product's potential lifespan. Come on, parents, admit it. Just look at that $100 bottle sterilizer you've already replaced with a more convenient pot of boiled tap water. Or how about that $380 hands-free breast pump that went idle after 6 months of occasional use or that $1,000 euro-exotic stroller that turned out to be too bulky to regularly transport by car? Your well-meaning, but irrational ways made you an easy target for the baby-care industry that places your ilk on the sucker-side of the consumer savviness scale.

Just look at the extortionary prices of the typical babycam. You can easily spend between $200 and $300 for a so-called "top-of-the line" monitor that's plagued by radio interference, poor range, and shabby video quality. To make matters worse, these single-purpose cameras lose their usefulness once baby is grown. So what's a rational, resourceful parent to do? Easy, use an IP-based surveillance camera as a baby monitor instead. Not only do you get a superior wireless camera for about the same price (or less), you have the option of repurposing it for inclusion in your home automation or security system after baby is grown. That's what we've been doing for several weeks now thanks to WiFi Baby. And you know what? We'll never go back to traditional baby monitors again. Click through to find out why.

Hardware
While you've most likely never heard of WiFi Baby -- a small, family-run company in Florida -- you might already be familiar with the Y-cam range of networked surveillance cameras. The WiFi Baby 3G (as in third-generation, not wireless data) is built upon the Y-cam Knight S YCK004 camera with a 1/4-inch, 3 megapixel CMOS imager capable of recording audio and 640 x 480 pixel video at 30fps in just 1 Lux of light. A ring of 30 infrared LEDs provides nighttime visibility at a range of about 15 meters (almost 50 feet). The camera works over tethered Ethernet or 802.11b/g WiFi with options for WEP, WPA, and WPA2 encryption and support for RTSP/RTP/RTCP, 3GPP, ASF streams. It also supports UPNP network discovery as well as the ability to send visuals to your home NAS, FTP server, or email account at preset timings or whenever a motion-sensing alarm is triggered (more on that later).

The cam can be mounted on the wall, ceiling, or crib as long as you have access to power. Otherwise, there's an attachable stand for placing the WiFi Baby 3G on a flat tabletop. The camera can easily be swiveled in the direction of your heaving genetic spawn thanks to a highly adjustable ball-and-socket design. Parents will appreciate these placement options as they try to position the camera around visual barriers like guard rails, crib skirts, and the Mozartian quartette you hired to stimulate baby's spatial-temporal reasoning.

And yes, it is fun telling friends that you put WiFi Baby in the corner.

Monitor Software
Unlike traditional babycams, the WiFi Baby 3G does not include a dedicated monitor for viewing and listening to your tot. Instead, you access the camera's video and audio from a web browser, Y-cam MultiLive for Windows PCs and Macs, or through a variety of third-party apps for iOS, BlackBerry, and Android handsets. We used an iPhone 4 to test the WiFi Baby-recommended Baby Monitor HD (read: VGA), a $9.99 iOS app. We also tried the free Y-cam MultiLive apps on both iOS and Android. Sadly, a bug in the Y-cam MultiLive app inhibits audio from streaming on the latest iOS 4.3.x builds while the Android flavor was, well, just plain buggy, requiring constant force-quits. Fortunately, there are several other apps listed in both the Apple App Store and Android Market that claim Y-cam compatibility.

All told, we quickly settled on Baby Monitor HD as our preferred app, irrespective of its somewhat confusing operation (pinch outwardly to view in landscape?) and muddled settings page. And if you're the proud parent of an in-vitro fertilized jackpot then you'll be happy to know that the Baby Monitor HD app supports up to four simultaneous live video feeds.



The MultiLive for Mac application is dead simple to set up thanks to the auto-discovery feature. It supports up to nine separate feeds and streams audio and video at a smooth 30 frames per second. You can view the action full screen, snap photos, and even record a video clip (first steps?) on a whim or whenever your preset motion alarms are tripped. Plenty of options here.

Now, because the WiFi Baby 3G camera is IP-based, it can be accessed from well beyond the operating radius of the typical 900MHz baby monitor. In fact, we regularly used the Baby Monitor HD iOS app and laptop browser to check in from around the world, over both 3G and WiFi connections. Our UPNP-enabled router was able to locate and automatically forward the appropriate ports necessary to view the password-protected WiFi Baby 3G camera from outside the home. It's a powerful thing, seeing your spouse reading bedtime stories to your child as you prepare for the workday from the other side of the globe.

While seeing your baby is nice, hearing your young'un is arguably more important as a means of alerting you to trouble. Fortunately, the WiFi Baby is perfectly capable of alerting uneasy parents to noises from the baby room. The audio, captured by the WiFi Baby's electret condenser microphone, plays out the speaker of your chosen monitoring device(s). The Baby Monitor HD app includes a number of enhancements to mute the background noise with low, medium, and high squelch settings. That way, only your baby's cries are transmitted and not the construction clamor from beyond the window. A tap of the app's audio window (presented as a graph in portrait mode) lets you temporarily override the mute whenever you want to listen in. An additional setting lets you configure optional "cuckoo," "crow," or "ding" alerts (plus vibration) whenever the sound approaches the 80 percent threshold. These settings worked well as long the app was running in the foreground and the device's volume was sufficiently loud enough to be heard. Unfortunately, you won't receive audio alerts when the iOS device is on standby or when the volume is muted. Ideally, future versions of the app would operate in the background with an option to override the handset's current volume setting to blast alerts at anxious parents.

Surveillance Use
Overall, we're pretty happy using the WiFi Baby 3G as a baby video monitor. In fact, in our experience, only Luvion's brand of premium video baby monitors can hold a candela to the Y-cam in terms of convenience and interference-free image quality under a variety of lighting conditions. However, unlike Luvion's cameras, your Y-cam can be converted to an all-weather outdoor surveillance camera for home security / monitoring with a $99 "Shell" adapter and 10 minutes of assembly. True, stuffing the relatively diminutive WiFi Baby 3G into a shiny hunk of 17 x 13.5 x 12.5cm plastic tubing makes quite the statement when slung off the upper floor of our European HQ -- but its conspicuous appearance translates into additional security. Already, just the presence of the camera seems to have stopped at least one neighborhood punk from tampering with our property.

For additional stealth, you can turn the external power indicator on or off using software, but the eerie red halo produced by the cam's 30 IR LEDs at night is inescapable. Of course, you can also disable the night vision feature completely or set it to function automatically using the camera's ambient light sensor. While there's a "moonlight mode" that superimposes frames to brighten an otherwise dimly lit image, it's no match for the cam's infrared capability -- if you want to see in the dark, you have to use the cam's night vision mode. Keep in mind that the IR range will likely decrease when pointing the WiFi Baby 3G camera outside due to the lack of walls needed to bounce the IR light back onto the objects you wish to illuminate. Nevertheless, we're still able to see the street (and our bicycle) fairly clearly from a camera mounted on the third-floor window. In practice, we'd likely augment the camera's ability with a separate IR illuminator or flood (and wipe away the spider web).

Naturally, all the features that make the WiFi Baby 3G a great baby camera also make it a great surveillance cam. But some features are paricularly well-suited to security. For example, you can set up several positional motion alarms of varying sensitivity to send a snapshot and / or video with sound to your FTP server, NAS, or email address whenever the camera detects movement. Y-cam also offers a Y-cam Knight SD camera model that records directly to removable SD cards. Storing your surveillance footage is useful for reviewing it after an incident occurred. For our testing, we configured the camera to record a 30 second video clip and still image to our NAS server at 30 minute intervals and whenever motion is detected. Of course, like all consumer grade surveillance cameras, the motion detection feature can flounder in the face of flying insects or wind-blown vegetation -- an issue not seen by city dwellers like us.

Shortcomings
Of course, we do have some complaints. For one thing, the image colors have inexplicably shifted into the violet range of the visible spectrum. This wasn't always the case and could be related to a configuration setting we tweaked along the way -- there are many. While the color offset is fine for viewing baby's play habits, it's not very useful when trying to identify the colors of a perpetrator's clothing to police.

Also, we'd recommend repurposing an old Android or iPhone handset to use as a dedicated monitoring device with access to power (preferably in a cradle) near the bed. That way, you always have a master monitoring device at the ready to alert parents to cries of distress. Also, because the camera depends upon your WiFi network, it's not the kind of baby monitor that you'll toss in an overnight bag ready for use at grandma's house.

Our biggest gripe, however, is the premium placed on what amounts to a generic Y-cam Knight S surveillance camera. WiFi Baby lists the third-generation camera for $279 -- a price that includes US shipping and all applicable taxes. The identical Y-cam Knight S version YCK004 can be had for $50 less from Amazon and other US sites. WiFi Baby claims that its phone and email support justifies the differential. Perhaps. We didn't have any need for it thanks to Y-cam's own user manual and a number of helpful tutorials freely available on WiFi Baby's site. To make matter worse, owners will still have to dish out an additional $19.95 to a WiFi Baby network specialists if they get stuck trying to poke holes through their router for viewing the camera over the internet -- that feature isn't freely supported under WiFi Baby's terms and conditions. The company does plan to deliver additional value in the future. It's already working on an Android app for release in 2011 as well as custom firmware, co-developed with Y-cam, that will simplify setup and provide exclusive baby monitoring features to WiFi Baby owners. So, you'll have to make the decision: spend a bit more now for a support lifeline you may or may not use with a promise for future exclusives, or put the $50 towards the $9.99 Baby Monitor HD iOS app with the remainder set aside for the $100 Y-cam Shell outdoor mount.

Wrap-up
It's not pink, it doesn't pack a remote temperature sensor, and it won't play an 8-bit lullaby. Hell, it's not even swaddled in an adorable "Summer Infant" or "AngelCare" moniker. Yet this third-generation WiFi Baby -- a repackaged Y-cam Knight S surveillance camera -- manages to make traditional baby video monitors look like overpriced toys. Sure, it's priced about the same as a typical high-end baby monitor, but the WiFi Baby 3G provides more features and flexibility than any traditional babycam. As the name suggests, you get WiFi freedom in addition to tethered Ethernet. You also get VGA video with sound, an IR illuminated night-vision mode, audible alerts with vibration, and plenty of iOS, Android, BlackBerry, and Mac and PC apps that let you view your baby from anywhere in the connected world. And just think, when baby's grown you can repurpose the camera for security or home monitoring tasks thanks to an optional $99 waterproof Y-cam Shell and an out-of-the-box ability to send images, video, and sound to your networked hard disk drive or personal email address whenever motion is detected. Let's see your Safety 1st or Graco babycam do that.

We know that having a baby can cause well-meaning parents to do foolish things. Just don't add your choice of baby video monitors to that lengthy list. We urge you to give the WiFi Baby 3G (or its cheaper Y-cam Knight S clone) a look -- you'll have plenty of chances to disappoint your child later.

Lustancia's TapNav app takes your iPhone for an AR-assisted spin

Posted: 24 Jun 2011 07:36 AM PDT

For better or worse, it seems that GPS services are rapidly approaching their mid-life crisis. After rampaging through a host of makeovers (see more: here and here) that would make even the most ADD-popstar dizzy, the phoenix of the navigation industry is now trying its hand at a new augmented mobile reality. Sitting pretty at $2.99 in the App Store, Lustancia's TapNav app swaps the virtual maps for a real-time AR overlay via your iPhone's camera. It's not a killer feature by any means, but if you've ever found yourself wondering just which turn your PND is indicating, then this is for you. Sexy robot-voice assistance and routing stay free, but you'll have to pony up for that turn-by-turn navigation after the sixty day paid trial. Astonishingly brief press release after the break.
Show full PR text
June 23, 2011 02:27 PM Eastern Daylight Time
TapNav World's First Vision Based AR Navigation from Lustancia

SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Lustancia is excited to announce the release of TapNav, the world's first vision based Augmented Reality GPS Navigation. The application can be downloaded from the apple appstore in US, Germany, France, and Spain.

TapNav is a GPS navigation application for the iphone to assist drivers. TapNav is powered by the most advanced techologies in computer vision which allows the camera of the iphone to detect lanes at 29 frames per second. 'Computer vision' and 'lane detection' are the keys to providing an intuitive and precise driving directions to the user.

TapNav provides turn by turn navigation and voice assistance that aids the AR based experience. The price is $2.99 for 60 days usage of the full app with monthly subscription after the 60 days expire. Routing with the application will stay free.

mSonar, the development studio within Lustancia LTD, plans to continuously update TapNav with a vision of becoming a full-package driving assistant application to help people get to their destinations safer and faster.

Learn more about TapNav on the iTunes App Store here: http://goo.gl/c7jDC
Read more about TapNav online here: www.msonar.com

Engadget Podcast 245 - 06.24.2011

Posted: 24 Jun 2011 07:15 AM PDT

This week was like some sort of beautiful patchwork quilt of tech news from all sorts of random corners of the industry: we've got hoardes of tablets, one very tiny camera, a slew of software and mobile news, and...light bulbs? PhD programs? DataGates? We'd try to explain it all in this text, but we think you'd be better-served to just hit the play button down there. Or the download link. We won't judge you either way, just get it done, ok? It's the Engadget Podcast -- thanks for listening, as usual!

Host: Tim Stevens
Guests: Darren Murph, Brian Heater
Producer: Trent Wolbe
Music: Brown Eyed Girl

00:02:40 - Nokia N9 first hands-on! (update: video)
00:11:27 - Nokia's first Windows Phone: images and video, codenamed 'Sea Ray'
00:14:10 - Editorial: Dear Nokia, you cannot be serious!
00:18:40 - Nokia's N950 developer MeeGo handset gets official: 4-inch display, QWERTY keyboard, same childlike dreams (updated)
00:23:30 - Prototype dual-screened 2-in-1 Android smartpad from Imerj preview
00:29:22 - Apple unveils updated Time Capsule, bumps storage to 3TB
00:31:25 - Apple Final Cut Pro X now available on Mac App Store
00:35:42 - Samsung denied preview of iPad 3, iPhone 5 in ongoing Apple infringement suit
00:42:05 - Vizio Tablet gets detailed, we go hands-on (video)
00:49:05 - Vizio, your favorite low-cost TV leader introduces... a light bulb (video)
00:50:07 - Huawei MediaPad revealed: world's first 7-inch Android 3.2 tablet, dual-core 1.2GHz Qualcomm CPU
00:55:55 - Pentax intros Q, world's smallest interchangeable lens digital camera (hands-on video)
01:01:38 - Verizon's 'DataGate' plans leaked in excruciating detail
01:04:30 - Best Buy puts your music in the cloud, goes where others have gone before (updated)
01:07:38 - Listener questions




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Apple sues Samsung again for copying the iPhone's design, this time in South Korea

Posted: 24 Jun 2011 06:45 AM PDT

As if Apple and Samsung's patent infringement catfight weren't distracting enough, Apple is recreating the legal spectacle in Samsung's home country of South Korea. Apple just filed a suit against Samsung Electronics in Seoul Central District Court, with Cupertino alleging that the Samsung Galaxy S copies the third-generation iPhone, according to a report from the online news site, MoneyToday. That closely matches the claims Apple made when it it sued Samsung back in April for "slavishly" copying the iPhone and iPad. Since then, Apple's expanded its case to include additional Samsung devices, including the Droid Charge, Infuse 4G, Nexus S 4G, Galaxy Tab 10.1, Galaxy S II, and a handful of others. Meanwhile, Samsung has attempted (in vain) to subpoena prototypes of Apple's next-gen iPhone and iPad. We wouldn't be surprised if Samsung abandoned its efforts to peek Apple's forthcoming products, but if this is, indeed, destined to be a case of déjà vu, Samsung might well strike back with a suit of its own.

AutoWed vending machine concept offers marriage of convenience, nuptials at $1 a pop

Posted: 24 Jun 2011 06:24 AM PDT

AutoWed vending machine offers true marriage of convenience, nuptials at $1 a pop
Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to introduce to you perhaps the most outlandish concept we've seen all year. Looking something akin to a Moroccan Barbie accessory, and sporting a small portrait of Jesus Christ, the AutoWed Wedding machine has blasphemy written all over it. Pop in a dollar or a pound, depending on your location, and in moments you're served with a pair of plastic wedding bands and a personalized certificate, (unofficially) sealing the deal. And to think we ever raised a brow at that live crab vending machine.

Zinio brings Tegra hardware acceleration to Honeycomb tablets

Posted: 24 Jun 2011 06:00 AM PDT


Zinio's smartphone and tablet apps make it easy to bring a lifetime's worth of magazine content with you on the go, but performance has been inconsistent, especially when navigating through pages or zooming into photos and text. The company's latest app improves upon both critical elements, however, taking advantage of the Nvidia Tegra chip in your Mototola Xoom or Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 to smooth out page transitions and pinch-to-zoom. Nvidia posted a side-by-side comparison video demonstrating the improvements on a pair of Xooms, and there's clearly a noticeable difference. You can try it out for yourself by downloading Zinio version 1.10.3641 from the Android Market, or jump past the break for the demo.

Show full PR text
Zinio Brings Faster, Optimized Reading Experience for Android 3.0 and 3.1 Tablet Users
TegraT 2 super chip fuels speed, enhances app features

SAN FRANCISCO, June 22, 2011 - Zinio today announced that its newsstand for Android 3.0 and 3.1 tablet devices just got a whole lot faster.

Through close collaboration with NVIDIA, Zinio has brought advanced hardware acceleration capabilities to its Zinio for Android app, for all Android 3.0 and 3.1 tablets with the NVIDIA® TegraT 2 super chip. The hardware accelerated version of the Zinio for Android app is now available for free download on the Android Market, exclusively for Tegra-powered Android 3.0 and 3.1 tablets.

Consumers will experience greatly increased performance capabilities and smooth page turning, zooming and panning. This new performance supports Zinio's ongoing efforts to provide users with the most engaging reading experience available today.

Consumers with Tegra-powered Android 3.0 and 3.1 tablets can enjoy substantial improvement in the performance of the standard Zinio app. Among these devices are high-resolution tablets like the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1, ASUS Eee Pad Transformer, Motorola Xoom, T-Mobile G-Slate by LG, LG Optimus Pad and Acer Iconia Tab A500.

"Zinio has an extensive collection of rich and interactive magazines," said Neil Trevett, Vice President of Mobile Content at NVIDIA. "By optimizing performance for Tegra-based tablets, Zinio and NVIDIA are delivering an amazing reading experience."

"We're always looking for ways to improve the Zinio user experience, and integrating NVIDIA's incredible graphics processing capabilities was a no-brainer," said Rich Maggiotto, Zinio President and CEO. "Close cooperation between the two companies harnessed the power of Tegra to provide incredibly smooth page turning, zooming and panning capabilities for our Android users."

Currently, tens of thousands of magazines from every major publisher are available through Zinio on Android 3.x devices. Unique to Zinio, its UNITYT platform allows readers to simultaneously store, read and engage with their personal newsstand across all of their devices and operating systems including Mac, PC, laptop, iOS, Android and soon webOS, Windows 7 and BlackBerry.

All Android users who download Zinio will automatically be given - for free - three of the latest issues of favorite magazines ESPN, Harper's Bazaar and Popular Science.

EVO 3D and EVO View 4G now available to the non-Premier masses

Posted: 24 Jun 2011 05:27 AM PDT

EVO 3D and EVO View 4G
No longer must you be a member of Sprint's Premier Club to get your hands on the EVO 3D. At long last, the poverbial floodgates are open allowing you, dear reader, to rush to your local shop and acquire one for $200 -- provided you're willing to commit to a two year contract. Arriving on shelves alongside the glasses-free 3D handset is the HTC EVO View 4G, the Taiwanese company's 7-inch tablet that (for the time being) comes packaged with the fancy Scribe stylus for $400. You'll find PR after the break but, who are you kidding, there's no time for reading -- there's shopping to be done.
Show full PR text
Exclusively from Sprint and Available Today: HTC EVO 3D, America's First 3D-Enabled Smartphone in the United States, and HTC EVO View 4G, with New Digital Pen Technology

Sprint Stores nationwide open at 8 a.m. local time for customers to get a jump-start on purchasing this summer's hottest devices

OVERLAND PARK, Kan.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Two of the most highly anticipated wireless devices of 2011, HTC EVO™ 3D and HTC EVO View 4G™, debut today, exclusively from Sprint (NYSE: S). HTC EVO 3D, America's first glasses-free 3D phone will cost $199.99 and HTC EVO View 4G, the first 4G-enabled tablet in the United States, will cost $399.99. Both prices exclude applicable taxes, and the devices require a new two-year service agreement or eligible upgrade.

"When it comes to gaming on the HTC EVO 3D, I am impressed."

Sprint Stores nationwide will open at 8 a.m. local time. HTC EVO 3D and HTC EVO View 4G will also be available through Sprint Business Direct Sales, www.sprint.com and Telesales (1-800-SPRINT1), as well as RadioShack and Best Buy stores.

"HTC EVO 3D brings to life a visual experience that comes alive in front of the viewers' eyes and offers crisp, clear pictures on the large display that showcases yet another new innovation from Sprint; and HTC EVO View 4G combines a wonderful tablet experience with the ability to use the optional HTC Scribe digital pen to take notes on web pages, e-books, PDF documents and more, in an easy and natural way," said Fared Adib, vice president – Product Development, Sprint. "We're looking forward to seeing our customers' reactions to the glasses-free 3D experience when they get their hands on these exciting new devices today."

Glasses-Free 3D plus Sprint 4G

HTC EVO 3D takes the mobile multimedia experience to a new level, providing the ability to capture and view in 3D and share at 4G speeds while offering consumers the ultimate glasses-free 3D experience. Built with the Android™ 2.3 operating system (Gingerbread) with the latest version of the acclaimed HTC Sense experience, HTC EVO 3D features America's first 4.3-inch, qHD 3D display and a powerful 1.2GHz Qualcomm® Snapdragon® dual-core processor. HTC EVO 3D also features dual 5-megapixel cameras, which can be used to capture high-quality conventional and stunning 3D images and videos, opening up new frontiers for user-generated content, social networking and streaming video.

Respected technology media agree Sprint has done it again with HTC EVO 3D. Here are a few accolades from early reviews:

"A lot of the hype on this phone will be centered on its 3-D capabilities. But take away the 3-D and you still have one of the better smartphones in the market." – The Wall Street Journal
"When it comes to gaming on the HTC EVO 3D, I am impressed." – TheGamerAccess
"So, if the way you use your phone and ease of navigation and functions is important, you want the best Mobile UI on the market, and you love glasses-free 3D technology, get the only phone that has them both, the HTC EVO 3D 4G for Sprint." – VideoGamingPros
"The HTC EVO 3D builds on the original EVO 4G in every way possible. It's thinner, it feels better in the hand, and it's way more powerful." – BGR
"The EVO 3D is more or less the same ass-kicker its 2D predecessor was, but a year later and faster." – Gizmodo
"There's no question that the 3D powers are an appealing feature of the EVO 3D. Taking 3D images and 3D video offers that 'wow' feeling almost each and every time, and makes even the most mundane subjects somehow more interesting. It helps that the EVO 3D's camera is top notch. Even if the EVO 3D were a 2D-only shooter, it would be worth recommending for the camera performance alone." – Phonescoop
"So let's ignore 3D for a second. The EVO 3D is fast, sleek, up to date, and packs a pretty great qHD display." – This is My Next

HTC EVO 3D requires activation on one of Sprint's Everything Data plans plus a required $10 Premium Data add-on charge for smartphones. Sprint's Everything Data plan with Any Mobile, AnytimeSM includes unlimited web, texting and calling to and from any mobile in America while on the Sprint Network, starting at just $69.99 per month plus required $10 Premium Data add-on charge – a savings of $39.99 per month versus Verizon's comparable plan with unlimited talk, text and web or $9.99 per month versus Verizon's 450-minute plan with unlimited text and web. The Mobile Hotspot option is available for an additional $29.99 per month supporting up to eight Wi-Fi enabled devices simultaneously. (Pricing excludes taxes and surcharges.)

An Unparalleled Tablet Experience

HTC EVO View 4G brings the best of the EVO experience to a tablet design with a 7-inch touchscreen, 1.5GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon processor and latest version of HTC Sense. It will launch with an Android 2.3 operating system (Gingerbread) with a future update to Android 3.0 (Honeycomb). As the perfect combination e-reader, media player and portable computing device, HTC EVO View 4G offers a premium entertainment experience with HD-like quality video and a rich web-browsing experience with the ability to browse the web on Flash-enabled sites.

Here are a few nice things industry experts had to say about HTC EVO View 4G:

"I love the form factor and absolutely solid build quality of the View 4G. It's a top notch tablet, the size is great, and it's lovely having 4G WiMAX data speeds wherever I go."2 – BGR
"The EVO View's 7-inch, 1024 x 600-pixel glossy display is one of the brightest and most vibrant we've seen on a tablet. With the brightness turned up, images appeared bright and colorful even at 90-degree viewing angles." – Laptop Magazine
"The HTC EVO View 4G for Sprint adds a fast 4G connection to the HTC Flyer, an already capable tablet with excellent pen input options." – PC Magazine
"The HTC EVO View 4G is undeniably fun to use. The interface is fast and responsive." – CNET

Additionally, for a limited time, any customer who purchases HTC EVO View 4G will receive the HTC Scribe™ digital pen (otherwise sold separately) at no additional charge, while supplies last, with a two-year service agreement – providing an additional savings of $79.99 on their purchase.

Rate plans for the HTC EVO View start as low as $34.99 per month for 3GB of 3G data and unlimited 4G data usage while on the Sprint network, when bundled with an eligible handset plan3. Unlimited text, picture and video messaging are included at no additional charge. Additional plans, including 3G-only plans, are available to meet customers' needs. Optional add-on services include GPS Navigation for $2.99 per day or $9.99 per month and the Mobile Hotspot option for $29.99 per month supporting up to eight Wi-Fi enabled devices simultaneously. (Pricing excludes taxes and surcharges.)

For an all-star look at HTC EVO View 4G, tune in to the BET Awards at 8 p.m. Eastern Sunday, June 26. Celebrity presenters will forego the traditional envelopes during the awards presentation in favor of HTC EVO View 4G tablets. During the live telecast from the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, the presenters will be using Sprint's latest tablet to announce the winners.

Sprint was unbeaten among major wireless carriers for customer satisfaction according to results from the 2011 American Customer Satisfaction Index. In addition to tying for first place among wireless carriers, Sprint was also the number one most improved company in customer satisfaction, across all industries, over the last three years, according to the survey.

As the first national wireless carrier to test, launch and market 4G technology, Sprint made history by launching 4G in Baltimore in September 2008. Sprint currently offers 4G service in 71 markets in 28 states. For more information, visit www.sprint.com/4G.

About Sprint Nextel

Sprint Nextel offers a comprehensive range of wireless and wireline communications services bringing the freedom of mobility to consumers, businesses and government users. Sprint Nextel served more than 51 million customers at the end of 1Q 2011 and is widely recognized for developing, engineering and deploying innovative technologies, including the first wireless 4G service from a national carrier in the United States; offering industry-leading mobile data services, leading prepaid brands including Virgin Mobile USA, Boost Mobile, and Assurance Wireless; instant national and international push-to-talk capabilities; and a global Tier 1 Internet backbone. Newsweek ranked Sprint No. 6 in its 2010 Green Rankings, listing it as one of the nation's greenest companies, the highest of any telecommunications company. You can learn more and visit Sprint at www.sprint.com or www.facebook.com/sprint and www.twitter.com/sprint.

Rate plan pricing excludes taxes and surcharges.

1"Favorite" based on number of Sprint 4G subscribers vs. those on other wireless 4G (WiMAX and LTE) networks in the United States.

2 Sprint 4G network reaches over 70 markets and counting, on select devices. See sprint.com for details.

3Regular price $44.99 per month. Discounted monthly recurring charge requires customer to have an eligible service plan, including Simply Everything, Simply Everything Share, Everything Data, Everything Data Share, Everything Business (corporate liable only) or Business Everything Advantage Messaging and Data plan (corporate liable only).

LaCie's CloudBox 'hybrid HDD' doubles your backups in the cloud (video)

Posted: 24 Jun 2011 05:06 AM PDT

LaCie CloudBox
Tempted by the allure of the cloud? Still not quite ready to give up that local backup at home? Fret not, as LaCie's new CloudBox gives you a pinch of both. The gizmo pictured above may look similar to the company's Wireless Space NAS, but it's actually a 100GB "hybrid HDD." The device connects to a router exclusively via its single Ethernet port, enabling it to handle local backups while also automatically mirroring an AES encrypted copy to a cloud server daily -- even if your computer is off. Using LaCie's Online Restore software, the offsite copy is accessible by up to ten previous volumes should the box ever become inoperable. The CloudBox comes with a one year subscription for online backups (mum's the word on future fees), and will be available in July priced at $200. You'll find more details in the PR past the break, as well as a video showcasing a variety of unfortunate -- mostly baby induced -- situations it's intended for.
LaCie CloudBox hybrid HDD

Show full PR text
Ultimate Data Security: LaCie CloudBox

PARIS, FRANCE – Today LaCie announced the first implementation of hybrid storage technology by combining the best of local and secure online storage – LaCie CloudBox. When you store data on the CloudBox, it is also backed up in the Cloud – ensuring your data is always safe, secure and accessible.

HASSLE-FREE HYBRID BACKUP
With the CloudBox you don't have to worry about backing up in multiple places, it has double protection built-in. The CloudBox ensures your data is backed up on a local hard drive and again in the cloud. Having double protection means you no longer have to worry about your data.

FAST AND EFFICIENT FILE RESTORATION
No matter where you are or what may happen to your CloudBox – damage, theft or fire – you'll always have an online copy of your files. If you want to recover everything, the CloudBox can restore your entire online backup. If you just want to restore certain files, the CloudBox's Online Restore application allows you to browse and restore selections of files and folders, up to 10 previous versions.

PLUG IT IN AND FORGET
No other product offers a one-step process for backing up your files in two places, ensuring you always have a second copy for ultimate data security. Simply backup files from your PC or Mac computer to the CloudBox – local backup ensures quick file access and restoration in case of PC failure. Then the Cloudbox automatically sends a copy of your files to the cloud, daily – ensuring your data is safe and accessible from anywhere. The best part is the CloudBox performs the online backup independently, so you are free to disconnect your notebook.

ULTIMATE DATA SECURITY
The CloudBox provides multiple levels of data security including two copies of your files and AES data encryption. Unlike other cloud storage offerings, your files are encrypted before they are sent to the cloud – meaning no one, not even LaCie, has access to your most important files. The CloudBox ensures complete data security and safety from data loss.

AVAILABILITY
The CloudBox will be available in July. It comes in 100GB capacity and includes a one-year online backup contract for 100GB, which can be easily renewed. You can purchase the CloudBox through LaCie Online Store, LaCie Corner, and LaCie Reseller+ starting at $199.99. For more product information, visit www.lacie.com.

ABOUT LACIE
With operations in the Americas, Europe and Asia, LaCie is a leading manufacturer of storage devices for PC, Apple, and Linux. LaCie has differentiated itself through sleek design and remarkable technical performance. Find out more about our products at www.lacie.com.

Telstra will scrap Sense UI to make room for Gingerbread on the HTC Desire

Posted: 24 Jun 2011 04:38 AM PDT

What's this we spy in the dusty depths of a Telstra software update page? A little sentence that displays some crowd-pleasing logic in bringing Android 2.3 to the hoary old Desire. HTC originally told us the handset had insufficient memory to run Gingerbread, and so would be excluded from the update. Then it did a 180-flip and said the Desire would be getting Gingerbread after all, but with the sacrifice of some memory-hogging apps. But now Aussie Telstra has opted for arguably the smartest alternative: prepare a special update that kicks HTC's Sense UI out of the pub instead, freeing up plenty of room for Gingerbread while also pleasing punters who like to drink their Android neat. If it can work Down Under in August, other operators around the world ought to be able to make it work too. And if they don't, there's always the option of a spicy home-brewed beverage instead.

[Thanks, Alejandro]

Volkswagen Temporary Auto Pilot brings hands-free driving to the highway

Posted: 24 Jun 2011 04:05 AM PDT


Would you feel comfortable driving down the highway with a Temporary Auto Pilot (TAP) behind the wheel of your next Volkswagen? A new technology proposed by the German automaker won't take you from A to B automatically, but it will help out with more simple driving, so you can take your hands off the wheel while cruising down the highway at up to 130km/h (about 80 mph), for example. The system pairs Lane Assist with cruise control, and can be overridden by the driver at any time. The TAP system's Pilot Mode uses radar, laser, camera, and ultrasonic sensors to maintain a safe distance between vehicles, start and stop in traffic, and slow down before a bend. Speed is set by the driver, who you'll need to remain aware of your surroundings in case you need to take over control -- so don't get too comfortable poking around the menus on that AppRadio just yet.
Show full PR text
Driving without a Driver – Volkswagen presents the "Temporary Auto Pilot"

Prof. Dr. Jürgen Leohold: "An important milestone on the path towards fully automatic and accident-free driving."

Wolfsburg/Borås, 21 June 2011 – Today, at the final presentation of the EU research project HAVEit (Highly Automated Vehicles for Intelligent Transport), Prof. Dr. Jürgen Leohold, Executive Director Volkswagen Group Research, is presenting the "Temporary Auto Pilot" by Volkswagen: Monitored by the driver, the car can drive semi-automatically up to a speed of 130 kilometres per hour on motorways. It represents a link between today's assistance systems and the vision of fully automatic driving.

"Above all, what we have achieved today is an important milestone on the path towards accident-free car driving," emphasises Leohold at today's final presentation of the EU research project HAVEit in the Swedish city of Borås. The Temporary Auto Pilot (TAP) bundles semi-automatic functions, i.e. functions monitored by the driver, with other driver assistance systems. It combines such automatic systems as ACC adaptive cruise control, the Lane Assist lane-keeping system and Side Assist lane-changing monitoring into one comprehensive function. "Nonetheless, the driver always retains driving responsibility and is always in control," continues Leohold. "The driver can override or deactivate the system at any time and must continually monitor it." TAP always offers the driver an optimal degree of automation as a function of the driving situation, acquisition of the surroundings and driver and system states. It is intended to prevent accidents due to driving errors by an inattentive, distracted driver. In the semi-automatic driving mode – referred to as Pilot Mode, for short – TAP maintains a safe distance to the vehicle ahead, drives at a speed selected by the driver, reduces this speed as necessary before a bend, and maintains the vehicle's central position with respect to lane markers. The system also observes overtaking rules and speed limits. Stop and start driving manoeuvres in traffic jams are also automated. With TAP, it is possible to drive at speeds of up to 130 kilometres per hour on motorways or similar roads. Drivers must still continually focus their attention on the road, so that they can intervene in safety-critical situations at any time.

In contrast to previous research vehicles such as "Junior" and "Stanley", TAP is based on a relatively production-like sensor platform, consisting of production-level radar-, camera-, and ultrasonic-based sensors supplemented by a laser scanner and an electronic horizon. "One conceivable scenario for its initial use might be in monotonous driving situations, e.g. in traffic jams or over sections of a driving route that are exceedingly speed-limited," comments
Leohold.

Hyper Ping Pong is like real table tennis, only without the ball, table or opponent (video)

Posted: 24 Jun 2011 03:26 AM PDT

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Microsoft and Nintendo might already have the motion-based table tennis simulation market locked down, but there's one thing their consoles need that the new Hyper Ping Pong paddle doesn't: a TV. That's right, this motion sensor-equipped bat lets you play without the superfluous need for something to look at -- it comes with a speaker that plays back the sound of a rally and all you need to do is "go with the rhythm." A button integrated into the handle lets you put a little extra sauce on your volleys and accurate timing will win you points, awesome sound effects, and the admiration of all your friends. The Hyper Ping Pong kit will start selling in Japan this October for ¥2,000 ($25).

Mimobot Transformers thumb drives are exactly what meets the eye

Posted: 24 Jun 2011 03:02 AM PDT

Transformers Mimobots
Oh, look, Mimoco is back with a couple of new USB flash drives. These particular Mimobots come in the likeness of everyone's second favorite morphing robot rivals -- Optimus Prime and Megatron. (Obviously Cy-Kill and Leader-1 take the top slot in our hearts.) Sadly, these Transformer thumb drives don't actually transform, but they do come preloaded with screensavers, wallpapers, and digital comics... if you're into that sort of thing. The Autobot and Decepticon leaders are available now, starting at $23 for 2GB of storage and reaching $60 for the 16GB model. PR is after the break.
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2011 CEA LINE SHOW: MIMOCO DEBUTS CLASSIC TRANSFORMERS CHARACTER MIMOBOT® USB FLASH DRIVE SERIES
Jun 22, 2011

The TRANSFORMERS flash drive series debuts with MEGATRON and OPTIMUS PRIME in 2GB to 16GB memory capacities preloaded with bonus digital media content

(New York – June 22, 2011) - Mimoco, creator of the MIMOBOT® line of designer USB flash drives, under license from Hasbro, Inc., is introducing the new TRANSFORMERS character-based MIMOBOT drives featuring retro TRANSFORMERS styling. Debuting at the 2011 CEA Line Show at the Mimoco booth (#T35), the collection includes popular TRANSFORMERS characters in classic MIMOBOT form: OPTIMUS PRIME and MEGATRON. The drives come preloaded with bonus media including digital editions of classic comics, videos, and scripts alongside the MimoDesk™ suite of screensavers, avatars, and more.

OPTIMUS PRIME MIMOBOT®

The leader of the AUTOBOTS, OPTIMUS PRIME MIMOBOT® stands heroic with his classic red, white and blue armor and matching helmet. This flash drive's mission is simple: protect your data from falling into the clutches of the evil leader of the DECEPTICONS, MEGATRON!

Preloaded Digital Content Includes: digital comics, videos, desktop wallpapers, icons, avatars, screensavers, and more!

MEGATRON MIMOBOT®

With steel-colored armor, menacing scowl and piercing eyes, the MEGATRON MIMOBOT® boasts classic TRANSFORMERS style and will stop at nothing to gain the Universe's data, including your documents, music, pictures and more!

Preloaded Digital Content Includes: digital comics, videos, desktop wallpapers, icons, avatars, screensavers, and more!

"We are stoked to welcome the iconic TRANSFORMERS characters OPTIMUS PRIME and MEGATRON to the MIMOBOT family," said Evan Blaustein, CEO of Mimoco. "We hope fans worldwide enjoy the collaboration which also features our most extensive preloaded media suite assembled to date."

TRANSFORMERS MIMOBOT drives are ready to do battle over your most precious possessions: your data! The leader of the AUTOBOTS, OPTIMUS PRIME MIMOBOT® stands heroic with his classic red, white and blue armor and matching helmet. This flash drive's mission is simple: protect your data from falling into the clutches of the evil leader of the DECEPTICONS, MEGATRON! With steel-colored armor, menacing scowl and piercing eyes, the MEGATRON MIMOBOT® boasts classic TRANSFORMERS style and will stop at nothing to gain the Universe's data, including your documents, music, pictures and more!

Other popular MIMOBOT® collections from Mimoco will be showcased at the CEA Line Show, including drives from the franchises of DC Comics (Batman, Green Lantern), Star Wars, and Hello Kitty, as well as original artist series like Tokidoki, and Mimoco's own Core Series characters. Each MIMOBOT® designer USB flash drive comes in a range of 2GB to 16GB memory capacities and is preloaded with MimoDesk™ character-specific content including wallpapers, icons, screensavers, and other digital extras.

The new TRANSFORMERS MIMOBOT® USB flash drive line will be showcased at booth #T35 at the CEA Line Show and are available for pre-purchase at www.mimoco.com and in the coming weeks at select retail shops worldwide.

About Mimoco
Boston-based design house Mimoco fuses the art of conatemporary characters with the functionality of personal data storage devices and is well known in both the pop-culture driven Art Toy underground and the high-tech electronic world. The MIMOBOT USB flash drive line includes original characters and licenses from Star Wars™, Hello Kitty®, and DC Comics™, to pop-artists like Gary Baseman, David Horvath, and FriendsWithYou. MIMOBOT flash drives are available in up to 16GB capacities, are Mac and Windows compatible, and include preloaded bonus MimoDesk™ content. Lucasfilm, Star Wars™ and related properties are trademarks and/or copyrights, in the United States and other countries, of Lucasfilm Ltd. and/or its affiliates. TM and © Lucasfilm Ltd. All rights reserved. All other trademarks and trade names are properties of their respective owners.

About Hasbro
Hasbro, Inc. (NASDAQ: HAS) is a branded play company providing children and families around the world with a wide-range of immersive entertainment offerings based on the Company's world class brand portfolio. From toys and games, to television programming, motion pictures, video games and a comprehensive licensing program, Hasbro strives to delight its customers through the strategic leveraging of well-known and beloved brands such as TRANSFORMERS, LITTLEST PET SHOP, NERF, PLAYSKOOL, MY LITTLE PONY, G.I. JOE, MAGIC: THE GATHERING and MONOPOLY. The Hub, Hasbro's multi-platform joint venture with Discovery Communications (NASDAQ: DISCA, DISCB, DISCK) launched on October 10, 2010. The online home of The Hub is www.hubworld.com. The Hub logo and name are trademarks of Hub Television Networks, LLC. All rights reserved. Come see how we inspire play through our brands at http://www.hasbro.com. © 2011 Hasbro, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 will launch in the UK on August 4th

Posted: 24 Jun 2011 02:01 AM PDT

The Galaxy Tab 10.1, the benchmark Android tablet device at this moment in time, is coming to the UK on August 4th. Samsung's just made the launch date official, announcing that both WiFi and 3G variants will be hitting "a range" of British stores almost exactly six weeks from now. Alas, no pricing details have been revealed yet, but you can look forward to an exceedingly slim (8.6mm / 0.33-inch) slate sweetened with Honeycomb (3.1) software and dual-core Tegra 2 performance. The 3G variant will also include a 21Mbps-capable HSPA+ radio, which would be called 4G if it were in the hands of overzealous American carriers. The TouchWiz UI will be large and in charge on the British Tab 10.1, augmented with Samsung's Social, Readers, and Music Hubs, as well as access to NVIDIA's Tegra Zone. We're also reminded about the neglected Galaxy Tab 8.9 in the press release, which should be arriving in the UK "later in the year."
Show full PR text
UK LAUNCH ANNOUNCED FOR SAMSUNG GALAXY TAB 10.1

Samsung announces its slimmest, lightest and smartest tablet will hit UK shops in August

24th June 2011, London, UK – Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd today announced the latest in its Galaxy Tab range, the Galaxy Tab 10.1, will be available in the UK on 4th August 2011.

The Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 comes in both 3G and WiFi only versions and launches with latest version of Android, Honeycomb 3.1, which is designed specifically for tablet devices.

The latest addition to Samsung's Galaxy Tab range features a 10.1 inch crystal clear WXGA TFT LCD screen, weighs only 565 grams and is the world's thinnest mobile tablet of its screen size measuring just 8.6 millimetres.

Supporting network speeds of up to 21Mbps and Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n connectivity, the new Galaxy Tab 10.1 is equipped to deliver fast mobile download speeds and reduce data transfer time. The Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 includes a 1GHz dual core application processor, with the latest NVIDIA® Tegra 2™ chip, ideal for entertainment such as movies, games and e-books, browsing the web or staying connected with email or messaging services. The Galaxy Tab 10.1 also has a 3 megapixel rear and 2 megapixel front camera with 1080p HD video and Flash playback and is available in both black and white.

The Galaxy Tab 10.1 comes packed with content and services, pre-loaded with Samsung's Readers Hub and Music Hub, providing instant access to more than 2.2 million books, 2,000 newspapers, 2,300 magazines and 13 million songs. Also built in is a specialised tablet version of Samsung's Social Hub, which integrates email, instant messaging, mobile contacts, calendar and social network connections into a single interface. The Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 also delivers console quality gaming, with Gyroscope and Accelerometer for interaction and motion control, powered by 'mobile super chip' NVIDIA® Tegra 2™ for mind-blowing graphics.

Simon Stanford, Managing Director, Mobile, Samsung UK and Ireland said: "The Galaxy Tab 10.1 is the latest example of Samsung's ongoing innovation in this market and commitment to the Android platform. Our Galaxy family all feature a premium design, excellent screens and are packed with compelling entertainment features. We plan to deliver exciting new user experiences and lead the tablet market in the months and years to come."

In addition to the Galaxy Tab 10.1 announcement, Samsung has also confirmed that the next in the Galaxy Tab range, the Samsung Galaxy Tab 8.9, will also be available later this year in the UK. Like the 10.1, the Galaxy Tab 8.9 is incredibly slim and light at just 8.6 mm and 470 grams.

The Galaxy Tab 10.1 and Galaxy Tab 8.9 join the original 7inch device to provide a range of Samsung tablets for consumers to choose from. The Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 will be available in a range of UK retailers alongside a portfolio of accessories on 4th August 2011.

Nokia's Android flirtations revealed

Posted: 24 Jun 2011 12:58 AM PDT

We don't know if this device is "super confidential" or not, but we've just come across yet another Nokia N9 lookalike with a non-MeeGo operating system on board. Well, it looks that way, anyhow. There's no way to verify that the Android homescreen we see above is a legitimate Gingerbread installation and not a mere screenshot (the resolution looks all wrong, for one thing), but the source of this image is the same Chinese fellow that posted a picture of Nokia's Windows Phone prototype, the Sea Ray, way back in May, so we're inclined to believe he's got an inside line on these things. Additionally, the undersized Android UI elements on the screen actually encourage us to believe that this is indeed a Nokia testing device -- if we were going to fake something like this, we'd use a regular screen grab for our tomfoolery -- and Stephen Elop has openly admitted that Nokia spent a couple of wild seconds contemplating a switch to Android. Well, folks, here's what that alternate future might have looked like.



Hacker pleads guilty to AT&T iPad breach

Posted: 24 Jun 2011 12:24 AM PDT

Nearly six months after his arrest, one hacker pleaded guilty to charges that he exposed the email addresses of over 100,000 AT&T iPad 3G users. It's been a year since Daniel Spitler and his compatriot, Andrew Auernheimer, coaxed Ma-Bell servers into delivering the goods, with a brute force script they lovingly named the iPad 3G Account Slurper. The hacker's plea agreement suggests a 12 to 18-month sentence, which is a lot more lenient than the 10-year maximum we hear he could face. Spitler's collaborator is apparently still in plea negotiations with the prosecutor. Both men initially claimed they were just trying to draw attention to a security hole, but maybe next time they'll think twice before embarking on such altruistic endeavors.

Atrix 4G bootloader unlocked: you can hack it up today or wait for official Gingerbread update

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 11:36 PM PDT

The Atrix 4G is today an eminently more intriguing smartphone than it was yesterday. Leaked code from Motorola's upcoming Gingerbread update for the handset has made its way into the hands of the always-eager coders at xda-developers, which has resulted in two things: one, the discovery that Motorola intends to unlock the Atrix's bootloader when it upgrades it to Android 2.3, and two, downloadable files to let you do exactly that today, even if you're still stuck on Froyo. Moto users have been pleading for this change for a long time and Motorola did pledge to make it happen across its portfolio of devices, but it comes as a mild (and happy) surprise to see this change being effected retroactively. Check the links below to see how you can unchain your phone's bootloader if you can't wait for the official software to drop.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Navy blends Jet A and algae-based biofuel, uses it to power Seahawk chopper (video)

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 11:18 PM PDT


Considering that helicopters are entirely dependent on a spinning rotor to remain in the air, an MH-60S Seahawk doesn't exactly seem the most likely candidate for experimental fuel. That didn't seem to stop the US Navy, however, which successfully completed a test flight with a 50 / 50 blend of algae-based biofuel and Jet A (traditionally the flavor of choice for turbine-based aircraft). The mixture used is known as Solajet HRJ-5 Jet fuel, which doesn't quite have the same ring to it as good ole Jet A -- but it does happen to be based on a renewable resource and managed to keep the rotor spinning. There's no word on how much the new fuel costs to produce or when it might be ready for commercial use, but if all goes to plan, we may soon be using the green stuff for more than just sushi rolls and miso soup.

Show full PR text
Solazyme Announces Successful MH 60S Seahawk Helicopter Test Flight on a 50/50 Blend of Algal Derived Solajet®HRJ-5 Jet Fuel

Applauds ASTM International historic preliminary approval of algae based biofuels for aviation

SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Solazyme, Inc. (NASDAQ:SZYM), a renewable oil and bioproducts company, announced today that the US Navy successfully demonstrated Solazyme's 100% algal-derived jet fuel, Solajet®HRJ-5, in an MH-60S Seahawk helicopter test flight in a 50/50 blend with petroleum-derived jet fuel. This marks the first military aircraft to fly on an algal-based jet fuel in history. This test flight preceded the historic announcement by ASTM International that it has preliminarily approved biofuel from algae and other renewable sources to be blended with traditional jet fuel on commercial flights worldwide, with formal approval expected sometime in July.

"We applaud ASTM International and the ATA and CAAFI for their efforts to advance the world's newest and most sustainable fuels for aviation. The aviation industry has demonstrated a strong leadership position in fuel supply diversification and sustainability, and today's announcement is a major step in its efforts to commercialize advanced low-carbon biofuels," said Jonathan Wolfson, CEO, Solazyme.

"Solazyme is honored to be working with the US Navy and DLA-Energy in driving forward the testing and certification process for advanced biofuels. The successful flight demonstration of the Seahawk helicopter on a 50/50 blend of Solajet®HRJ-5 and petroleum-derived jet fuel marks a significant milestone in this process, and reinforces the Navy's commitment to securing our nation's energy supply."

Honeywell UOP was the refining partner on the jet fuel delivery, and has been working with Solazyme since 2009 on multiple contracts with the US military.

To date, Solazyme is the only company to provide the US Navy with microbially-derived advanced aviation and marine fuel. These advanced biofuels are drop-in replacements to petroleum-based fuel, requiring no modification to engines or military logistics infrastructure. The fuels also meet Section 526 of the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007.

Quake turns 15, ready to be ported to a learner's permit

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 10:38 PM PDT

In the ever-changing world of gaming, a 15-year-old title is downright ancient, so there's a lot to be said for the fact that we're still talking about Quake a decade and a half after its release -- and what a packed decade and a half it's been. The game has spawned a still thriving convention and has made an appearance on pretty much every platform, ever, including, recently, Android, webOS, Chumby, BUG, and, of course, a maze for lab mice. So, happy birthday, old man. Now how about playing on something more your age? Like, say, the Jitterbug? Got a favorite Quake moment? Be sure to share it with us in the comments below.

Siemens DA36 E-Star glider takes serial hybrid to new heights

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 09:52 PM PDT

Siemens DA36 E-Star glider takes serial hybrid to new heights
It's not exactly Wonder Woman-ready, but this little glider is already a star. A collaboration between Siemens, Diamond Aircraft, and EADS, the DA36 E-Star, being billed as the "world's first serial hybrid electric airplane," has taken to the friendly skies and is now on display at the Paris Air Show. The two-seater, which boasts a serial (or series) hybrid electric drive, similar to that found in the Chevy Volt, is currently a two-seat affair, but is intended to pave the way for passenger planes, and could eventually cut emissions by 25 percent. Along with a decrease in fuel consumption and subsequent emissions, the plane is also nice and quiet. So what's next? Scientists are working on a new motor that could make the drive five times lighter. Hey Siemens, give us a call when it gets inflight-WiFi. Full PR after the break.
Show full PR text
World's first serial hybrid electric aircraft to fly at Le Bourget
Munich, Germany, 2011-Jun-20

Siemens AG, Diamond Aircraft and EADS are set to present the world's first aircraft with a serial hybrid electric drive system at the Paris Air Show Le Bourget 2011. The two-seater motor glider successfully completed its maiden flight on June 8 at the Wiener Neustadt airfield in Vienna, Austria. The aircraft was built by the three partners to test the hybrid electric drive concept. In the future, the technology, which is intended for later use also in large-scale aircraft, will cut fuel consumption and emissions by 25 percent, compared to today's most efficient aircraft drives.

The world's first series hybrid electric plane DA36 E-Star

Electromobility is now making inroads into the world of aircraft. The technology of the series hybrid electric drive is scalable and will be used in small and medium-sized aircraft and, in the medium term, larger planes. It will make aviation greener.

Air traffic accounts for some 2.2 percent of CO2 emissions worldwide. For this reason, aircraft, too, must become more efficient. One possible solution – which Siemens and its partners Diamond Aircraft and EADS are testing in the DA36 E-Star motor glider – is to electrify the drive system.

"A serial hybrid electric drive can be scaled for a wide range of uses, making it highly suitable for aircraft as well," said Dr. Frank Anton, the initiator of electric aircraft development at Siemens. "The first thing we want to do is test the technology in small aircraft. In the long term, however, the drive system will also be used in large-scale aircraft. We want to cut fuel consumption and emissions by 25 percent, compared to today's most efficient technologies. This will make air travel more sustainable."

The motor glider, which is based on Diamond Aircraft's HK36 Super Dimona, is the only aircraft of its kind in the world. It is the first to use a so-called serial hybrid electric drive, which has been utilized to date only in cars, as an integrated drive train. The plane's propeller is powered by a 70kW electric motor from Siemens. Electricity is supplied by a small Wankel engine from Austro Engine with a generator that functions solely as a power source. A Siemens converter supplies the electric motor with power from the battery and the generator. Fuel consumption is very low since the combustion engine always runs with a constant low output of 30kW. A battery system from EADS provides the increased power required during takeoff and climb. The accumulator is recharged during the cruising phase. "The serial hybrid electric drive concept makes possible a quiet electric takeoff and a considerable reduction in fuel consumption and emission," said Christian Dries, the owner of Diamond Aircraft. "It also enables aircraft to cover the required long distances."

The electric motor glider successfully completed its first flight at the Wiener Neustadt airfield in Vienna, Austria on June 8, 2011. "On the long way to hybrid electric-powered commercial aircraft, the maiden flight of the DA36 E-Star is a small step and at the same time a historic milestone," said Dr. Jean Botti, Chief Technical Officer and member of the Executive Committee of EADS.

The next development step will be to further optimize the entire drive train. Siemens scientists are currently working on a new electric motor that is expected to be five times lighter than conventional drives. In two years, another aircraft is expected to be equipped with an ultra-light electric drive. Siemens' Drive Technologies Division has already used integrated drive trains in other applications like marine drives. The knowhow gained in these areas has now been applied in the aviation industry as well. Combined with the corresponding product portfolio, the components of the drive train can be optimally adjusted to one another.

The DA36 E-Star will be exhibited at the Paris Air Show Le Bourget in a flight demonstration every day from June 20 to June 26, 2011.

iPad accounts for 97 percent of US tablet traffic online

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 09:08 PM PDT

Non-computer device traffic
It's no secret that the iPad commands a serious lead in the battle for tablet mindshare, but comScore's new Device Essentials traffic-tracking service shows just how much that translates into market dominance. According to the web monitoring company, the iPad and its successor account for 89 percent of tablet internet use globally, and 97 percent here in the US. Of course, the slate segment is still young and accounts for only a tiny percentage of total traffic. And, it's worth noting, the iPad has a significant advantage in being the first to hit shelves. If you want to dig a little deeper, hit up the source link for the PR and a few more charts.

Card.io SDK takes swipe at competition with camera-enabled mobile payments (video)

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 08:34 PM PDT

Card.io SDK takes swipe at competition with camera-enabled mobile payments (video)
In an attempt to edge its way into the crowded mobile payments market, a new credit card scanning system is saying "ah, hell no!" to typing and swiping. Card.io is billed as an SDK that takes advantage of smartphone cameras to let devs accept credit, because, as its creators point out, "typing on mobile phones is slow, and most consumers don't have a separate hardware attachment." When it's time to pull out the plastic, Card.io gets your phone's camera going, and up pops a little green rectangle, in which you frame your card and snap a pic. Your credit card info is then processed by a third-party merchant, and the details are subsequently deleted from your phone. Can you hear that? That's the sound of our chubby thumbs breathing a sigh of relief. The Card.io SDK for iOS is now available at the source link below, and an Android version should be close behind. For now, hop on past the break for a video demo.

Oracle v. Google update: USPTO rejects several patent claims, leaves chinks in Oracle's IP armor?

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 07:59 PM PDT

Much ink has been spilled about Oracle's lawsuit against Google for Android's allegedly unlawful use of Java, and rightfully so, considering Team Ellison's seeking to take more than a billion dollar chunk out of Google's bottom line. Just because Oracle's damage calculations add up to ten figures doesn't mean that the court will agree with them, however. And, there's a long legal road to be tread before the court can assign a dollar value to the case -- namely it must determine if the patent claims and copyrights are valid and whether Android actually infringes them.

That's why Google requested the USPTO re-examine the patents asserted by Oracle, as the process gives Google a shot at invalidating them outside the courtroom. It looks like the strategy is paying off, as one of those re-exams recently resulted in a rejection of 17 of the patent's 21 claims -- which reduces the number of claims Oracle can assert in court accordingly. Of course, those four remaining claims plus the 118 contained in the other six asserted patents (should they survive the re-examination process) could still spell doom for the little green bots, but it is a victory, albeit a modest one, for the team in Mountain View. So, Oracle may have a few less IP bullets to fire Google's way, but it's still got plenty of other legal ammo left. We'll keep you posted when next shot's fired.

FTC to put Google under a microscope, try to uncover anti-competitive ways?

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 07:26 PM PDT

Google's drawn the ire of the Federal Trade Commission before for failing to follow its own privacy policies. Now, however, the Mountain View crew is apparently facing a formal inquiry from the FTC as it seeks information about Google's search and advertising business. The civil investigative demands are set to be sent out within the next five days, according to the Wall Street Journal, and the commission will be looking into whether Google's search engine illegally routs all those internet eyeballs scanning its site to its own services instead of those offered by competitors. Sound familiar? It should, because Google's under investigation for similar anticompetitive accusations made in Europe -- somewhere Steve Ballmer is smiling.

Magellan RoadMate 5175T-LM connects to WiFi, plans your Great American vacation

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 07:08 PM PDT

How do you spice up a standalone GPS in a market that just isn't pining for 'em any longer? If you're Magellan, that's easy -- you take a smartphone, gimp voice and app capabilities and, voila!, you have the RoadMate 5175T-LM. Eerily similar to its Garmin rival, this slab boasts a full WVGA display, WiFi (you know, for that inbuilt web browser) and AAA travel planning. Purportedly, those fine, fine amenities will enable you to "go from the car to the boardroom to the hotel," and maybe even on that cross-country trip, too. Judging by its built-in tour guide functionality and heavy emphasis on the suit-and-tie demo, we'd say Magellan's aiming this one at the fifty and over set. This shortlist of features doesn't come cheap, either -- with a $299.99 price tag, we'd understand if your wallet was eyeing greener pastures. Full PR gush after the break -- you're welcome, GPS enthusiasts.
Show full PR text
Magellan RoadMate 5175T-LM with Built-in WiFi is Ideal for Summer Leisure and Business Travel

SANTA CLARA, Calif., June 23, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Whether on the road for business or pleasure this summer, travelers seeking the most current local information can rely on the first Magellan RoadMate GPS with WiFi, the new Magellan® RoadMate® 5175T-LM GPS navigation device.

The Magellan RoadMate 5175T-LM, available now, is a full-featured GPS navigator with a large 5" high-resolution touchscreen, and includes several unique applications that enable business travelers to locate local favorites for client dinners and vacationers to plan daytrip excursions.

The first thing noticeable about this travel companion is the high resolution 5" screen. While most GPS units have only a Quarter VGA screen, with this RoadMate you'll enjoy a full Wide VGA screen. More than that, this advanced GPS navigator enables viewing in landscape or portrait mode just by rotating the device. Seeing what is ahead or seeing what is around you is as simple as a twist!

The built-in internet browser on the Magellan RoadMate 5175T-LM allows travelers to search for destinations on popular social travel sites or points of interest. And anytime you are in a WiFi hotspot a simple press of a button lets you know if there are software or map updates. Software updates can be downloaded right then and there!

Another new Magellan feature debuting in this high end model is the TourDirector. Designed specifically for travelers, TourDirector is your personal guide to help you plan tours to nearby attractions and restaurants. TourDirector opens up a world of details to you about the attractions and events around you. A press of a button gives you the address, phone number, and a detailed description of the attraction. You even get the average time it takes to experience the attraction! This all comes together to give you a powerful tool to create custom tours for business travelers with limited time during layovers or vacation travelers wishing to create spontaneous side trips.

Lifetime maps are included so when a new map update is available (up to four times a year) you get them with the normal charge waived! The Magellan RoadMate 5175T-LM comes with premium maps of the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico.

Also included is Magellan's comprehensive built-in directory of more than 6 million points of interest in North America and Canada, from accommodations, coffee houses and restaurants, to gas stations, shopping and ATMs. Additionally, through Magellan's exclusive partnership with AAA, the travel organization's AAA TourBook content is built into the GPS unit, providing Diamond ratings, descriptions of AAA-approved locations, facts about local destinations and tourist attractions, and lists of merchants providing AAA discounts.

Fully featured, the Magellan RoadMate 5175T-LM includes subscription-free lifetime traffic alerts, highway lane assist, spoken street names, and Magellan's customizable OneTouch™ menu for favorite places and searches.

"The Magellan RoadMate 5175T-LM is designed to go from the car to the boardroom to the hotel, helping to make summer and business travel planning a cinch. At stops or between meetings, the unit's built-in WiFi can connect to convenient hotspots to search for user-rated dining and other destinations. While out on the road, the new TourDirector feature will help travelers plan a perfect day out," said Mike Wagner, Senior Director, Product Marketing at Magellan GPS.

The Magellan RoadMate 5175T-LM is available at Best Buy. The unit retails at a MSRP of $299.99.

Great Firewall of China getting a small cloud-based silver lining

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 06:39 PM PDT

China, it seems, is getting ready to punch a cloud-shaped hole in its infamous Great Firewall. A massive six square mile office park currently being built in the southwestern city of Chongqing is set to escape the filtering that dominates the rest of the company's internet access. The area, affectionately known as the "Cloud Zone," will be home to technology companies and Chinese startups that will presumably require free access to sites like Twitter and Facebook to do their jobs. Freedom, after all, is just another word for being able to update your status from your cubicle.

Voltaic Spark Tablet Case powers your pad with the Sun's rays

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 06:02 PM PDT

Voltaic Spark Tablet Case
Voltaic makes tons of solar-charging gear, from laptop bags to backpacks, but what are those living in a post-PC world to do? Well, the company just unveiled its Spark Tablet Case -- a thin, padded tote designed for your iPad or other slate that can generate 8-watts of power in sunlight. In addition to directly charging your iPad in about 10 hours, it can also bank the Sun's rays in a universal battery pack, for use when those fluffy things in the sky don't cooperate with your outdoor computing schedule. Optionally, the included V39 USB Battery can be charged (as you may have guessed) via USB, for extra insurance. The Spark is available now for $299 and extra battery packs can be had for $99. Check out the gallery below and the PR after the break.
Voltaic Spark Tablet Case and V39 USB Battery
Show full PR text
Voltaic Launches Solar Charger for iPad

New York, NY – June 23, 2011 - Voltaic Systems today opened up opportunities for grid-free computing with the availability of its iPad solar charger, the Spark Solar Tablet Case.

Perfect for mobile workers and global travelers, the Spark provides an hour of iPad video playback for every hour in direct sunlight. In addition, it will charge the Blackberry Playbook, T-Mobile G-Slate, Samsung Galaxy Tab, the ASUS Transformer and most handheld electronics. When the sun is unavailable, the internal battery holds one complete iPad charge. The battery can also be re-charged from a wall or car charger.

"Voltaic set out to design a lightweight case that could charge a tablet quickly, but also match the sleekness and simplicity of the many of the tablets," said Shayne McQuade, CEO of Voltaic Systems. "The Spark Solar Case is a powerful and compact way to carry and charge an iPad."

Voltaic is also launching today the V39 USB Battery, which provides backup power for iPads, other tablets and smartphones.

8 Watts of Power for Fast Charging
On the front of each case are four two-Watt solar panels. Solar charge times are determined by the total area and efficiency of the solar cells -- the Spark uses high-efficiency monocristalline cells which will charge an iPad from about 10 hours of sunshine. The cells are encased in a clear, UV and scratch resistant coating. The rugged panels are waterproof and built to withstand the abuse of everyday use.

High Output, Dual-Port Battery
Many tablets, including the iPad, can charge quickly from high-powered USB ports which output 2Amps, four times the current of a standard USB port. The Spark's 39 Watt hour battery has both a high-powered USB port for tablets and a standard USB port for phones and other handheld electronics.

Power for Digital Cameras
Fast charging for a tablet also means fast charging for professional DSLR cameras. Users can connect a car charger cradle for their camera battery to the solar output of the Spark, which is switchable between 6 and 12 Volts.

Protective and Lightweight Case
The Spark case is fully padded and lined for a snug and soft fit. It can be held by its handle, carried using the removable shoulder strap, or placed inside a backpack or other bag.

Key features and specifications of the Spark Solar Case include:
+ 8 Watts solar power, switchable between 6 and 12 Volts – panels available in silver or charcoal
+ 39 Watt hour battery with low-power and high-power USB ports
+ Charging cable with 5 standard adapters to connect to most handheld electronics
+ 13.5" high x 10.5" wide x 2" inches
+ About 2.5 pounds including solar panels and battery
+ Waterproof fabric manufactured from recycled PET

Availability
The Spark Solar Case and V39 External Battery are available now on www.voltaicsystems.com and with select retailers. To purchase and for more information, go to www.voltaicsystems.com/spark and www.voltaicsystems.com/v39

Voltaic was founded in 2004 to develop energy solutions using environmentally-intelligent designs. For more information please visit www.voltaicsystems.com, or contact us at 1.877.304.6861 x701 or media@voltaicsystems.com. Hi-Resolution photos are available upon request.

Visidon Applock sees your pretty face, grants you Android access (video)

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 05:23 PM PDT


In the event you got lulled into a groovy seat dance by that most excellent muzak above, let us repeat - this app does not protect your lockscreen. That said, Visidon's Applock will prevent the privacy-adverse from messing with your personally curated app collection. Have a nosy significant lover? No sweat -- snap a pick with your front-facing cam, enable the face-lock in your settings, and those sexts are as good as blocked. It's far from foolproof, however, as some comments indicate an extended bit of facial-wriggling tricks the app into unlock mode. Oh well, you're so vain, you'll probably think this Android market link is for you -- don't you?

[Thanks, Matti]

Panasonic ToughBook C1 gets upgraded with faster processor, better battery life

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 04:41 PM PDT

It may not look any different from the outside, but Panasonic has made some not insignificant upgrades to its rugged, 12.1-inch ToughBook C1 convertible tablet. That starts off with a new Intel Core i5-2520M vPro processor (2.5GHz, Turbo Boost-able to 3.2GHz), along with a standard 320GB 7,200 rpm hard drive (up from 250GB before), and some improved battery life -- Panasonic says you can expect twelve hours from a pair of hot-swappable batteries, or six hours with one. It also says its various improvements contribute to a start-up time that's 30 percent faster than the previous model, although that will obviously vary in real world use. Somewhat unfortunately, the convertible's base price tag has also seen a slight upgrade -- it'll now start at $2,599 instead of $2,499 when the new model rolls out next month
Show full PR text
Panasonic Upgrades the Toughbook® C1 with Enhanced Processor Speed and Increased Battery Life

Business-rugged Convertible Tablet Notebook Receives Boost in Performance

SECAUCUS, N.J.--(EON: Enhanced Online News)--Panasonic Solutions Company, provider of collaboration, information-sharing and decision-support solutions for government and commercial enterprises, today announced upgrades to the Panasonic Toughbook C1, currently the world's lightest 12.1" convertible tablet PC. The new version comes equipped with a 320GB base hard drive, up to 12 hours of battery life, 2GB RAM (expandable to 8GB) and an increased Intel® Core™ i5-2520M vPro™ processor (2.50GHz with Turbo Boost up to 3.2GHz). In addition, the Toughbook C1's start-up time is approximately 30 percent faster1 compared to the previous model. The Toughbook C1 convertible tablet form factor is ideal for road warriors and mobile workers in a variety of environments including healthcare, education and field sales.

The upgraded Toughbook C1 maintains its embedded wireless connectivity, including Bluetooth® v2.1 and optional Qualcomm's Gobi™2000 3G mobile broadband technology. The device is certified on the AT&T and other major 3G networks, allowing workers to stay connected virtually all of the time. Additionally, the Toughbook C1 has Intel® Centrino® Advanced-N 6205 802.11a/b/g/n Wi-Fi, offering improved connectivity options for mobile workers.

At 3.28 lbs, the lightweight Toughbook C1 with the triple-hinge design is created for a highly mobile workforce. The laptop is able to withstand drops from approximately 30" and comes with a battery life of twelve hours (with optional second battery) - enabled by a hot-swappable twin battery design. The 'hand-free' ergonomic "strap and dome" cradle is designed for customer comfort and long-term use. The Toughbook C1 also has a spill-resistant keyboard, which protects against liquid spills of about 6 ounces. The device's 12.1" widescreen WXGA 1280 x 800 display is available with a choice of multi touch and digitizer screen or gloved multi touch screen and an anti-glare screen treatment.

"The Toughbook C1 is often the convertible tablet of choice for our customers with highly mobile workforces, such as doctors, visiting nurses, sales teams and road warriors," said Kyp Walls, director of product management, Panasonic Solutions Company. "When upgrading the device, we made sure to improve the features that are crucial in helping our end users perform their jobs more efficiently. This includes incorporating a faster processor, larger hard drive and longer battery life into a hardened, business-rugged device that offers unmatched reliability and provides the highest ROI."

Panasonic Toughbook® C1: Key Upgraded Features

* Genuine Windows 7® Professional 32-bit or 64-bit
* Intel® Core™ i5-2520M vPro™ Processor (2.5 GHz with Turbo Boost up to 3.2 GHz)
* 320GB 7200rpm shock-mounted flex-connect hard drive with quick-release
* RAM (varies by model)
o Multi touch + digitizer: 4GB RAM (DDR3-1333MHz), expandable to 8GB
o Gloved multi touch: 2GB RAM (DDR3-1333MHz), expandable to 6GB
* Hot-swappable twin battery design
o 6 hour battery life (12 hour with optional second battery)
* 3.28 lbs (3.73 lbs with optional second battery)
* Interfaces
o SDXC card slot
* Embedded Connectivity
o Wi-Fi , Intel® Centrino® Advanced-N 6205 802.11a/b/g/n
* Optional Integrated Features:
o 1.3MP webcam
o 128 solid state drive (SSD)

1 Based on Panasonic testing, results may vary. With HDD, Quick Boot Manager and factory operating system image.

Pricing and Availability

In the United States, the upgraded Toughbook C1 is expected to be available in July 2011 from authorized Panasonic reseller starting at an estimated street price of $2,599.

The Toughbook C1 includes a full three-year limited warranty, parts and labor, providing coverage wherever the unit may be deployed.

Follow the Toughbook Brand

The Panasonic Toughbook brand can be followed on various social media channels, including Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Flickr and Toughbloggers.com.

About Panasonic Solutions Company

Panasonic Solutions Company empowers people whose jobs depend on reliable technology. The company delivers collaboration, information-sharing and decision-support solutions for customers in government, healthcare, education and a wide variety of commercial enterprises. Products and services within the company's portfolio include Panasonic Toughbook mobile computing solutions, projectors, professional displays (including both plasma and LCD), and HD and 3D video acquisition and production solutions. As a result of its commitment to R&D, manufacturing and quality control, Panasonic is known for the reliability and longevity of its products. Panasonic Solutions Company is a Division of Panasonic Corporation of North America, which is the principal North American subsidiary of Panasonic Corporation (NYSE: PC).

All brand and company/product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of the respective companies. All specifications are subject to change without notice. Information on Panasonic Solutions Company's full line of products can be obtained by calling 877-803-8492 or at www.panasonic.com/business-solutions.

D-Dalus aircraft lacks fixed-wing or rotor, looks like flying steamroller

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 04:02 PM PDT

Every other year, aviation fanatics gather in the city of baguettes and burlesque to order airplanes, gawk at concept vehicles, and dream about a better future. The D-Dalus, one of the more bizarre concepts at this year's Paris Air Show, from Austrian research company IAT21, stays aloft using quad contra-rotating cylindrical turbines -- and perhaps a touch of magic. Theoretically creating a completely new category of aircraft, the carbon fiber D-Dalus maneuvers by altering the angle of its blades, giving it virtually limitless abilities to launch, hover, and turn in any direction. An aircraft with this level of flexibility is more suited for military use than consumer applications (you won't be flying home from Paris in a freakish black tube), but could become a key asset for everything from freight transport to search and rescue operations -- on land, at sea, or even in a burning building. We haven't come across any proof that the Dalus can actually fly, but hit up the source link to see the craft suspended from the show floor ceiling in Paris.

Microsoft details the new Games Hub for Windows Phone Mango

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 02:53 PM PDT

Still not clear on what your gaming options will be like with Windows Phone Mango? Then Microsoft's now got you covered with a fairly extensive overview of its new Games Hub, which has actually been tweaked a bit further from earlier previews it's offered. One of the biggest changes is that the Hub now includes features previously relegated to the separate Xbox Live Extras app, including improved Xbox Live messaging, integrated achievements (complete with comparison views with your friends), and the ability to edit your Xbox Live profile -- not to mention fully animated 3D avatars. The Hub also boasts a new Collection view that promises to let you more easily manage your installed Windows Phone games, and it's literally been brightened up a bit across the board. Check out the gallery below for a closer look, and hit the source link for some more details.
Windows Phone 'Mango' Games Hub

Japan creates frankenstein pop idol, sells candy

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 02:29 PM PDT


Sure, Japan's had its fair share of holographic and robotic pop idols, but they always seem to wander a bit too far into the uncanny valley. Might an amalgam composite pop-star fare better? Nope, still creepy -- but at least its a new kind of creepy. Eguchi Aimi, a fictional idol girl created for a Glico candy ad, is comprised of the eyes, ears, nose, and other facial elements of girls from AKB48, a massive (over 50 members) all-female pop group from Tokyo. Aimi herself looks pretty convincing, but the way she never looks away from the camera makes our skin crawl ever so slightly. Check out the Telegraph link below to see her pitch Japanese sweets while staring through your soul.

Google Sites simplifies iOS and Android viewing with automatic mobile rendering

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 01:54 PM PDT

Do you use Google Sites to publish to the web? The search giant just added automatic mobile rendering to make your website more mobile-friendly when viewed on an iOS 3.0 or Android 2.2+ device. A new setting to "Automatically adjust site for mobile phones" can be activated in the site management page, at which point pages designed for desktop viewing will be displayed in a much simpler web format, so readers won't need to pinch-to-zoom just to see a page's content. Google also added mobile versions of the site list, sites search, and browse sites categories, for easy access from your smartphone. There's nothing groundbreaking here, but if you happen to run a Google Site or have a friend that does, it wouldn't hurt to flip the switch on mobile viewing -- your visitors will appreciate it.

Mac OS X 10.6.8 update now available

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 01:36 PM PDT

Mac OS X 10.6.8 update now available
It looks like Apple's getting another fix in before Lion slinks on to the scene. Mac OS X 10.6.8 is now available for download, and brings with it a number of "general operating system fixes," including further support for IPv6, improved VPN reliability, and removal of known variants of Mac Defender. It also promises to fix a glitch that has Preview randomly shutting down, and will get the App Store ready to roar for when Lion lands on the scene. We're getting it going on our laptop at home. If you've done the same, let us know how it's working out for you.
at 12:27 PM

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