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Wednesday, July 6, 2011

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Facebook video chat and Skype 5.5 beta hands-on

Posted: 06 Jul 2011 12:15 PM PDT

Earlier today, Facebook and Skype got a little friendlier, making it easy to find your Facebook friends in Skype and -- more importantly -- video chat with your Facebook friends in Facebook, a service powered by -- you got it -- Skype. Since you're using Skype either way you slice it, we're not interested so much in the call quality as we are the ease of use. Just how easy is it to make video calls using Facebook chat, which, simply put, has never been our favorite IM service? And what's it like seeing your list of potential Skype callers expand to include all your Facebook buddies? Let's venture past the break to find out.
Facebook video chat and Skype 5.5 Beta hands-on!

To get rolling with Facebook video chat, go to facebook.com/video calling and click that big "Get Started" button. After that, you'll click the obvious "Setup" button, at which point Facebook does its thing -- a seconds-long ordeal that effectively boots up a java applet. When it comes to making that inaugural video call, Zuckerberg & Co. stole a page from Skype's own playbook and made it as easy as clicking a camcorder icon. If the person you're trying to call is already good to go, you'll see a dialog box just making sure you realize that once you begin the call so-and-so will be able to see and hear you. (Thanks, Facebook!) And yes, you'll see that disclaimer every time you make a video call. If you're friend hasn't set up video calling, they'll hear a ringing sound coming from their PC, alerting them to the fact that that someone is trying to call them and oh -- by the way -- they, too, need to go to Facebook's video calling page and breeze through the setup process.

Once the call's in progress, you can expand it to full screen, or relegate it to a window inside the browser. We preferred that option, although you can't resize the window, which is annoying since it takes up a good quarter of our 13-inch laptop's display. Thankfully, you can move it, which we did plenty of times as we attempted multitasking, sending emails and searching for files in Windows Explorer. As for call quality, there's really nothing to write home about. Our chat was bright, well-lit, and didn't show much motion blur, but that's more a reflection on our WiFi connections and webcams than it is the service. Our friend Richard Lawler thought the picture was fuzzier than usual on his end, but we didn't notice a significant difference.

The second piece of the puzzle, of course, is the ability to look up your Facebook contacts' Skype handles from the Skype desktop client. But, you can only do this in version 5.5, a beta build available only to Windows users at the moment. In our hands-on, it was easy to distinguish between your Skype and Facebook contacts, or view the whole lot. When connecting to Facebook for the first time, you'll have to sign in and grant permission, as you would with any third-party app. After that, the only difference in calling Facebook contacts is that you'll have to find them in the Facebook tab in the left-hand pane (you can use the search bar to whittle down your results quickly). Once you're ready to call, all of the voice and video call icons are naturally the same as they would be in any other build of Skype.

Anxious to give this whole thing a go yourself? Head on down to the source links below, but only if you're kosher with in-browser / Windows usage. Folks on Mac, Linux or any mobile platform are simply asked to be patient (or, you know, convert).

New Commodore C64 gets stacked against the original, deemed a worthy successor (video)

Posted: 06 Jul 2011 12:02 PM PDT

We know a few of you have been waiting with bated breath for the retooled Commodore C64 to arrive, so we're not at all surprised that the first people to claim one are wasting no time putting its tactile keys through its paces. In that clip you see below, YouTube user "EternalPtah" places the three decades-old original next to its Atom-powered successor, comparing everything from the beige color to the height of the function keys. All told, he reassures us, the twenty-first century iteration is a worthy follow-up to the vintage model, even if it does replace the power light with a button. If you've got four minutes to spare, hit play for what will probably be the most nostalgic hands-on you see this week.

[Thanks, Ian]

Taco Bell to serve up free WiFi and in-store TV, keep you LOL'ing through Fourthmeal

Posted: 06 Jul 2011 11:38 AM PDT

Taco Bell to serve up free WiFi, in-store TV, keep you LOL'ing through FourthmealThe border runners at Taco Bell have fallen behind the ginger clown and his posse of hamburger-loving friends in terms of connectivity, but the fast food franchise will soon rectify that with the introduction of free WiFi at 5,600 locations over the next four years. In an attempt to keep you connected whilst stuffing your face with Beefy Melt Burritos, Taco Bell has teamed up with Indoor Direct to bring in-store WiFi and a specially branded TV network to the chain. Diners will apparently be encouraged to interact with content running on the network, with enticements to download free music, receive opt-in text messages, and engage in social media campaigns. Sounds like the perfect opportunity to resurrect that pot-stirring little chihuahua.
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Taco Bell and indoorDIRECT To Bring The Restaurant Entertainment Network to all 5,600 Taco Bell Restaurants

Largest System-Wide Branded Network Will Reach 48 Million People Monthly

DALLAS, TX. June 29, 2011-Taco Bell Corp. and Indoor Direct, Inc., owner of The Restaurant Entertainment Network, have reached a long-term agreement to be the first to install in-store television network and free Wi-Fi solutions in all 5,600 Taco Bell locations throughout the United States. After the 5,600 locations are installed by 2015, The Restaurant Entertainment Network will reach approximately 48 million Taco Bell customers each month. Each location will have The Restaurant Entertainment Network installed, which consists of a point of sale and dining room network plus installation of free Wi-Fi for guests.

"Our consumers come to us for great tasting tacos and burritos, and now we're enriching their experience with the addition of indoorDIRECT's Restaurant Entertainment Network," said David Ovens, Chief Marketing Officer, Taco Bell Corp. "As the value leader in Quick-Service Restaurants, The Restaurant Entertainment Network will add even greater value to the Taco Bell experience and feature engaging content such as music, lifestyle, entertainment and sports, and also free Wi-Fi to keep our consumers connected with their friends."

Michael Winton, President and Co-Founder of indoorDIRECT said, "We're delighted to be a national partner for Taco Bell. This agreement grows from the success of indoorDIRECT's pilot program in more than a dozen Taco Bell restaurants. Being able to help Taco Bell entertain their guests is a unique and sought-after value proposition." He added, "It will increase the reach and depth of The Restaurant Entertainment Network in key markets across the country and provide advertisers and content providers the ability to reach millions of Taco Bell guests while they eat. Guests will be able to interact with the network by downloading music seen on our show, receiving opt in text messages, engaging in social media campaigns and accessing free Wi-Fi."

Redesigned Droid Bionic wants to fight you, shows up in leaked Best Buy ad

Posted: 06 Jul 2011 11:16 AM PDT

Motorola has sure been taking its sweet time with the Droid Bionic. But hey -- better late than busted, right? We got some hands-on time with the LTE handset way back in January, only to get word in April that the device was going back into hiding while the company made "several enhancements." Rumors about said improvements have popped up in the meantime, and the device has made an appearance on the FCC, but Motorola hasn't done all that much talking about the upcoming smartphone. Looks like the handset may finally be getting its day in the sun -- a newly-leaked Best Buy ad offers up some familiar specs and tough-talking advertising copy, as well as the enticing and vaguely threatening promise that the Bionic is "coming soon." It's worth noting that a Droid Bionic accessory page has been live at Best Buy since February, but sadly, not even this ad gets us closer to a cemented release date.

Coca-Cola's green billboard consumes carbon dioxide like so much sugary soda

Posted: 06 Jul 2011 10:57 AM PDT

Sure, we've seen plenty of cool billboard features over the years, from facial recognition to interactive Pong games, but few have managed the dual feat of promoting a popular soft drink and making the world a slightly greener place. All of that fuzzy area you see surrounding the silhouette of the Coke bottle in the above 60 by 60 foot billboard is made up of a number of Fukien tea plants, each of which can soak up around 13 pounds of carbon dioxide per year, for a combined total of 46,800 pounds. The plants are housed in pots made from recycled Coke bottles and are watered via a drip irrigation system. The billboard is the product of a partnership between Coca-Cola Philippines and the World Wildlife Fund. No word on when it might be greening up more skylines around the world. Press release below.
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Coca-Cola & WWF Unite to Unveil 1st Plant Billboard In RP

Coca-Cola Philippines and World Wide Fund for Nature-Philippines (WWF) today unveiled the first plant billboard in the country, an iconic structure to represent the long-standing partnership between the two organizations to make a positive difference in the environment.

The partnership spans across two areas of Coca-Cola Philippines' Live Positively sustainability program:

Water Stewardship -- Since 2008, Coca-Cola Philippines has partnered with WWF in an effort to help conserve critical watersheds in the country. It is one of the environmental initiatives implemented by Coca-Cola Philippines to strive to be a water sustainable business and replenish the amount of water equivalent to what the company uses in all of their beverages and their production.
Climate Protection -- Coca-Cola Philippines is a major corporate partner of WWF in this year's Earth Hour and in the other programs throughout the rest of the year challenging individuals, companies and organizations to go "Beyond the Hour."

The 60 x 60 ft. plant billboard, located along Northbound EDSA-Forbes, utilizes a thriving species of Fukien tea plant, which absorbs air pollutants. According to botanist Anthony Gao, each plant can absorb up to 13 pounds of carbon dioxide in a year, on the average. "This billboard helps alleviate air pollution within its proximate areas as it can absorb a total of 46,800 pounds of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, on estimate." Gao says.

Recyclable materials were used for the overall make-up of the billboard. 3,600 pots were used, recycling old bottles of various Coca-Cola products. These bottles were filled with a potting mixture made up of a combination of industrial by-products and organic fertilizers-a formulation that is stable and light-weight. These bottles were also designed to contain the plants securely and to allow the plants to grow sideways. Additional holes were made for proper drainage and for holding the drip lines in place.

A drip irrigation system, also known as trickle irrigation or micro-irrigation, was especially installed for efficient water distribution. This irrigation method saves water and fertilizer by allowing water to drip slowly to the roots of plants, through a network of valves, pipes, tubing and emitters. The system is operated on a schedule to distribute water with nutrients to the plants. It provides the plants with what they need when they need it.

With all the eco-friendly mechanism it employs and the relevant advocacy it stands for, this innovative advertising is a salient reminder for Filipinos to take an active hand in protecting and saving the environment.

"We are proud that we have brought to life the first plant billboard in the country. It is an embodiment of our company's Live Positively commitment to making a positive difference in the world by incorporating sustainability into everything that we do. With this, we hope to inspire Filipinos to join us in our journey, because we know that together, we can make a positive impact," said Guillermo Aponte, president of Coca-Cola Philippines.

"We're grateful for Coca-Cola Philippines' commitment to a partnership with WWF, focusing on water stewardship and climate protection", said Lory Tan of WWF. "Through these partnerships, we will work to help Coca-Cola Philippines achieve its Live Positively environmental targets and strive together towards environmental sustainability in the Philippines."

Skype comes to Facebook, and Facebook comes to Skype (update: available now!)

Posted: 06 Jul 2011 10:24 AM PDT

It ain't the first time Mark Zuckerberg has taken the stage to announce... something, but today's shindig is resulting in "something" that's a bit more exciting for the average user. As rumored, the world's most notable VoIP service is set to become exceedingly integrated with the world's most notable social network. Skype has just thrown up a teaser page for v5.3 for Windows (and v5.5 Beta), noting that Skype and Facebook will aim to provide "the best of both worlds."

Zuck is primarily announcing three main things today: group chat, a new way to chat ("an easier way to find someone who is online") and Skype-enabled video chat. Oh, and the tiny, tiny fact that there's now 750 million Facebook members. What's notable is just how easy it is to fire up a group chat (or send transcripts to group members who miss out) and get a video call going using your existing Skype contact list. A single click is all it takes, and we're told that it'll be rolled out to everyone "over the next few weeks" in 70 different languages. The new chat design will be scalable based on your browser size, and the company made a point to mention that it'll be listening closely to user input in order to iterate as it moves forward.

Tony Bates stepped up to the plate, and noted that over 300 million videocall minutes a month are going through Skype, and at peak times, over half of its traffic is video. He also noted that the technology behind it was "tough" to construct, but somehow it managed to hammer this whole thing out in around six months via joint development. There's also talk about future "paid products" in due time, and it's strikingly clear that this partnership isn't going to fade anytime soon. If you're looking to take a dive yourself, hit up the source links below for the Windows applications, and wear that F5 button out over at Facebook's homepage if you're more of the "in-browser" type.

Oh, and if you're curious about mobile -- video chat isn't active on that front yet, and Mark's not spilling any details on "when." To quote him on a question of time tables: "We'll see."

Update: Those on the web can get started right now. Of note, this forces open the familiar chat bar, so it doesn't much look like you can hide from "those people" while attempting to find folks on Skype.

Google Maps 5.7 for Android brings Transit Navigation beta, updated access to directions

Posted: 06 Jul 2011 10:10 AM PDT

Good news, jetsetters -- those of you relying on Google Maps Navigation will now find it even harder to wean yourself off of it. Not like we'd ever recommend that, though. The navigators in Mountain View have just updated Google Maps for Android to v5.7, and while it's just a point update in terms of numbers, there's a healthy chunk of new material here. For starters, there's the addition of added Transit Navigation (Beta), which brings GPS turn-by-turn (or in this case, stop-by-stop) navigation to public transit systems in 400+ cities worldwide. It'll tap into your GPS module to determine your current location, and then alert you when it's time to get off or make a transfer -- downright invaluable in a place where you don't speak the language. After starting your trip with Transit Navigation, you can switch to another app or holster your mobile altogether, as an alert will still pop up in the notification bar (as well as a vibration) when the next stop is coming up. Google doesn't say specifically, but it sure sounds as if it caches things before you head into the tunnel, nixing that whole "underground service" problem.

Moving right along, users will also find improved directional services for driving / walking as well as a streamlined direction acquisition system within a Place page. There's also a couple of new improvements in search suggestions, with the addition of category icons and auto-insertion of places you got directions to into Places. Finally, the addition of the Photo viewer for Place pages should help you better visualize what you're about to walk (or drive, we guess) into. Head on down to the Market link below if you're down to try something fresh, but make sure you're rocking an Android 2.1+ device. Wouldn't want to crush your dreams, G1 owners.

D-Link brings the Boxee Box remote to PC, Mac users

Posted: 06 Jul 2011 09:48 AM PDT

Boxee users on PC and Mac should no longer feel ignored, with promises of updated software on the way and now the option to use a Boxee Box remote from D-Link. The two sided QWERTY design is unchanged and the included RF dongle means your HTPC can stay safely out of sight while you enjoy some branded remote control action without selling out for a one-size-fits-all box. The roll your own media player crowd can pick up the remote at a penny under $50 at a variety of online retailers right now, the long awaited software update is still due this fall.
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D-Link Introduces Boxee Remote Control for PC and Mac

Boxee Remote by D-Link Gives Boxee Software Users Living Room Feel From Home Theater PCs

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif. – July 6, 2011 – D-Link today announced the Boxee Remote Control by D-Link, giving Boxee users on PC and Mac the innovative remote previously only found with the Boxee Box by D-Link. The Boxee Remote Control features a sleek, two-sided design with a full QWERTY keypad that works seamlessly with Boxee software – the most intuitive way for Mac and PC users to bring TV shows, movies, music, and photos from the Internet to their TV.

"The Boxee Remote Control is ideal for home theater enthusiasts who have customized their home entertainment environment with a specialized PC or Mac media center, but still want the Boxee Box's unique viewing experience on their TV," said Daniel Kelley, D-Link's Associate Vice President of Consumer Marketing, North America. "We are thrilled to offer this complementary tool to consumers already using Boxee's software on their home computers – enabling people to more easily search, browse and type from the couch."

Featuring double-sided controls with a built-in QWERTY keyboard and simple browsing interface, the Boxee Remote Control enables easy access to the search and social capabilities of the Boxee software on PC or Mac. Allowing users to enjoy and share their favorite video-on-demand service through their social networks, the Boxee Remote Control lets anyone quickly and easily input URLs and account information for their favorite websites. In addition, unlike infrared TV remotes, the Boxee Remote Control uses RF signals via an included nano-sized USB adapter so consumers never have to worry about pointing the remote at the computer.

"The Boxee Remote Control was one of the most talked about advances with the Boxee Box by D-Link. We're excited to bring it to all of the Boxee users who've built customized home media centers and want to get even more out of their Boxee software," said Andrew Kippen, vice president of marketing, Boxee. "For Boxee software users, this remote makes all the difference between a PC experience and one that feels like watching TV. Consumers can literally kick back, relax and control their SmartTV experience from their couch."

The Boxee Remote Control can also be used as an additional remote for the Boxee Box by D-Link. The Boxee Box is the easiest way to bring TV shows, movies, music, and photos from the Internet to your TV in a simple, easy-to-use way – all that's needed is a TV with an HDMI input and an Internet connection. Unlike any other set-top device, the Boxee Box has support for a full web browser, full HD streaming from the Internet, support for all popular media file formats, and integrated social networking that delivers personal recommendations from Facebook and Twitter straight to the TV.

Availability and Pricing
The Boxee Remote by D-Link (DSM-22) is currently available at Amazon.com, TigerDirect.com, NewEgg.com, and Buy.com, with an MSRP of $49.99.

About D-Link
Celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2011, D-Link is the global leader in connectivity for home, small business, mid- to large-sized enterprise environments, and service providers. An award-winning designer, developer, and manufacturer, D-Link implements and supports unified network solutions that integrate capabilities in switching, wireless, broadband, storage, IP Surveillance, and cloud-based network management. For more information visit www.dlink.com, www.dlink.ca or connect with D-Link on Facebook (www.facebook.com/dlink) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/dlink).

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Spotify is coming to the US, invites are open now

Posted: 06 Jul 2011 09:26 AM PDT

It's happening. The music streaming service that has won over the collective heart of Europe is finally making the puddle jump that we've been waiting for. Spotify just threw up a US landing spot, inviting eager Americans to jump in line for a table at the party. Meanwhile, we just received confirmation on our own end that things are finalizing for testing here in the States, and we'll be sure to report back just as soon as our credentials clear. We should note, however, that there's still no definitive time table to report, but it's fairly obvious that those final record deals are close enough to done to call this thing a victory. Now, the real question: are you signing up in the source link below, or are any of those other guys still tugging at your heartstrings?

iPad makes up one percent of global web browsing, magic

Posted: 06 Jul 2011 09:25 AM PDT

This is surely the sort of thing Apple likes to see -- it might not be the prettiest graph in the world, but it certainly drives home the fairly consistent growth of the iPad's global web browsing share. Back in April of last year, we reported that the company's "magical" tablet had nabbed 0.03 percent of global web traffic in its first week. The decimal point has moved a couple of places, according to NetMarketShare, with the device now making up more than one percent of worldwide web browsing. That number is even higher in the US, at 2.1 percent, with the iPhone and Android devices pulling in 2.9 and 2.6 percent, respectively. As for Apple's share of tablet traffic -- well, there's not a heck of a lot to report on that front.

[Thanks, Alan]

Soundfreaq unleashes Sound Step wireless speakers for audio-loving multitaskers

Posted: 06 Jul 2011 09:00 AM PDT

Soundfreaq made quite the first impression last year with its Sound Platform SFQ-01 audio system, which is why our ears perked up when we heard about the company's newest creations -- the Sound Step and Sound Step Recharge compact wireless speakers. Compatible with all iOS, Android and BlackBerry devices, these Bluetooth-enabled docks allow users to remotely stream audio directly to their speakers, which feature a set of 2.75-inch, Kevlar-reinforced balanced drivers, a dedicated sub-woofer and a UQ3 spatial enhancement processor. There's also a 3.5 millimeter line-in jack and a USB charging port, meaning you'll be able to juice up multiple gadgets as you kick out multiple jams. And, since these guys are just 3.6-inches tall, you probably won't have to freaq out about making space for them, either. If your appetite's already whetted, you can grab the Sound Step for $139, or opt for the Recharge (with its six hours of rechargeable battery life) for $159. Otherwise, you can find more details in the full PR, after the break.

Update: We've just received a bit of clarification from the company here. A "grey" colored model actually won't be on the docket, and as for the speakers, there's a pair of 2-inch drivers + a single 3-incher.
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SOUNDFREAQ LAUNCHES SOUND STEP AND SOUND STEP RECHARGE COMPACT WIRELESS SPEAKERS THAT DOCK THE IPAD
NOW AVAILABLE AT TARGET AND AMAZON.COM

Company Offers Two Versions of Second Product To Provide Ultimate Versatility Allowing Users to Dock, Charge and Stream Audio Wirelessly

Los Angeles, July 6, 2011 – Soundfreaq, makers of the highly reviewed Bluetooth home speaker Sound Platform, today announced the launch of Sound Step and Sound Step Recharge, the company's first compact, wireless speakers. Sound Step and Sound Step Recharge allow users to dock, charge and stream music wirelessly from multiple devices including the iPad, iPhone, iPod touch, Android and Blackberry. Sound Step Recharge offers a built-in rechargeable battery – perfect for portability.

Target will serve as Soundfreaq's launch partner for Sound Step in North America. Sound Step and Sound Step Recharge and will be available online at www.Amazon.com.

"With our first product, Sound Platform, we set a standard for exceptional sound quality, functionality, design and value. We're proud to offer all of that in a more compact form with our new Sound Step speakers which now offer portability to the user" said Matthew Paprocki, co-founder and creative director of Soundfreaq. "Sound Step continues our commitment to delivering an audio experience that enhances living in a multi-device, multi-user, multi-tasking world."

The Sound Step speakers give users the ability to multi-task – surf the internet, check emails and text message – while streaming audio directly to the dock. The Sound Step speakers feature a dock for Apple iPhone and iPod devices like Sound Platform, but now offer the ability to also dock and charge an iPad, even if it's in a case. Also new in both Sound Step speakers is a USB charging port, allowing any USB-chargeable gadget such as a Blackberry, Android or a Bluetooth headset to be kept fully powered or for a second Apple product to charge.

Sound Step continues Soundfreaq's commitment to delivering a robust audio entertainment experience, including:

* Ultimate Portability Around Your Home – The Sound Step speakers offer a low-profile design and battery option making them a versatile speaker for home and office, fitting under computer monitors and with TVs, on kitchen countertops or nightstands.
* Sound Step Recharge – Built-in rechargeable battery offers six hours of AC-free playback time making it convenient to move around the house or even bring onto a patio or deck, perfect for outdoor entertaining.
* iPad Docking Station – iPad users can stream music wirelessly, and now can also dock and charge their iPad, with or without the case.
* Charge A Second Device – USB charging port allows users to charge any USB-chargeable gadget be it a Blackberry, Android or Apple phone or Bluetooth headset.
* Superior Sound Performance – Featuring a 2.1 speaker configuration with a dedicated sub-woofer and Soundfreaq's proprietary UQ3™ spatial sound enhancement to deliver natural bass and stereo separation, unique for a compact speaker.
* More than Music – The Sound Step speakers are perfect for enhancing any entertainment experience delivering crystal clear audio for movies, TV shows, videos, games, Internet radio and apps, including Pandora, YouTube, Netflix and HBO GO®.
* 4 Ways To Play – In addition to Bluetooth wireless and dock, line-in jack inputs from any device that has a standard headphone jack and an internal FM tuner allows users to listen to the radio through app interface.
* iPad/iPhone/iPod touch App – Users can download the free Soundfreaq app to turn their iPad, iPhone or iPod touch into the ultimate remote control. Users control what is playing from the speakers via the device while keeping their device in hand.
* Compatible for Future Devices – The Sound Step speakers are designed for today's wireless devices, as well as future devices with Bluetooth capabilities.

The MSRP for Sound Step is $139 and for Sound Step Recharge is $159.

500,000 surveillance cameras to oversee Chongqing, China

Posted: 06 Jul 2011 08:53 AM PDT

Whoa, Nelly -- this one's not going to sit well with a certain sect. While the Chinese city of Chongqing has been planning this initiative for some time, we're just now starting to understand the sheer magnitude of what'll be built over the next two to three years. Cisco and HP -- two names that are no doubt familiar to those reading this page -- are apparently in cahoots with the nation in a way that overshoots prior expectations by some amount. According to figures gathered by The Wall Street Journal, a whopping half-million surveillance cameras are being shipped over to keep watch across the city, with the awkwardly-named Peaceful Chongqing project giving the government unprecedented views of its citizens.

Critics are wondering why Cisco and HP aren't being held responsible for whatever China ends up doing with this equipment, but the loophole here is a fairly obvious one; while it's definitely not kosher for US firms to ship fingerprinting equipment to China, shipping everyday technology like cameras isn't taboo. Yet, anyway. As you'd expect, both Cisco and HP seem confident that it's not their responsibility to pay attention to what happens to the devices they ship, and if it's something you'd like to immerse yourself in, those links below are there to help.

Spotify partners with Virgin Media to stream music to UK TVs, smartphones

Posted: 06 Jul 2011 07:58 AM PDT


Spotify, the Rhapsody of Europe, may still be an unfamiliar brand stateside, but the service just inked a deal with Virgin Media to bring streaming music to Virgin's broadband customers, set-top boxes, and mobile phones in the UK. The deal will bundle Unlimited (£4.99) or Premium (£9.99) monthly Spotify tiers, at to-be-determined discounted rates, allowing new and existing subscribers to access millions of tracks from any of their compatible home and mobile devices. Open (free) Spotify customers will reportedly need to upgrade to a paid version, but only to access the service on Virgin's set-top boxes, we presume -- don't expect to see a blanket ban on all devices. Until pricing is announced, the partnership appears to be more of a win for Spotify than for customers, who will still need to pay up before rockin' out, but set-top integration is likely to be a boon with digital TV subscribers, letting them bring those infamous Euro house music raves to an actual house.

Prototype glasses use video cameras, face recognition to help people with limited vision

Posted: 06 Jul 2011 07:32 AM PDT

We won't lie: we love us a heartwarming story about scientists using run-of-the-mill tech to help people with disabilities, especially when the results are decidedly bionic. Today's tale centers on a team of Oxford researchers developing sensor-laden glasses capable of displaying key information to people with poor (read: nearly eroded) vision. The frames, on display at the Royal Society Summer Science Exhibition, have cameras mounted on the edges, while the lenses are studded with lights -- a setup that allows people suffering from macular degeneration and other conditions to see a simplified version of their surroundings, up close. And the best part, really, is that the glasses cull that data using garden-variety technology such as face detection, tracking software, position detectors, and depth sensors -- precisely the kind of tech you'd expect to find in handsets and gaming systems. Meanwhile, all of the processing required to recognize objects happens in a smartphone-esque computer that could easily fit inside a pocket. And while those frames won't exactly look like normal glasses, they'd still be see-through, allowing for eye contact. Team leader Stephen Hicks admits that vision-impaired people will have to get used to receiving all these flashes of information, but when they do, they might be able to assign different colors to people and objects, and read barcodes and newspaper headlines. It'll be awhile before scientists cross that bridge, though -- while the researchers estimate the glasses could one day cost £500 ($800), they're only beginning to build prototypes.

Google+ sneaks NFC into its Android app, gets caught red-handed

Posted: 06 Jul 2011 07:07 AM PDT

NFC is gradually turning to the social side, thanks to new functionality found within the Google+ app for Android. Software developer Ridzuan Ashim discovered that, when used on an NFC-enabled device, you can read tags and share them through the new social networking service. After scanning, the OS asks you if you want to share the associated text with Google+ or another relevant program. Though the abilities seem somewhat limited for now, we'll likely see more developer support tossed in as the service matures. Using NFC in this way could lead us into a group Huddle, check us in at a restaurant and share it with our Circles, and perhaps even add us into somebody's Circle or Hangout. It's only functional on a limited number of Android devices for now, so if you happen to use a Nexus S and have been invited to the exclusive club better known as Google+, you're a prime candidate for giving it a look-see. If the above criteria doesn't apply, check out the video below to experience all that near-field glory through someone else's phone.

Microsoft's Patriot Act admission has the EU up in arms

Posted: 06 Jul 2011 06:42 AM PDT

Last week, Microsoft quietly confirmed that cloud data stored on its European servers can still be handed over to American investigators -- and the EU is none too pleased about it. As it turns out, the revelation has shed new light on a fundamental conflict between US law and the EU's Data Protection Directive -- an edict requiring that companies notify consumers whenever sharing their personal information. The bi-lateral Safe Harbor agreement calls for similarly strict protocol, but under the Patriot Act (which trumps all else), companies like Microsoft could be forced to hand over private data without informing targeted individuals. In response, some members of the European Parliament are calling upon legislators to take action and to implement safeguards that can't be overridden by third-party governments. It remains to be seen whether or not this leads to any new laws or transatlantic tensions, but if we've learned anything, it's that Europeans take their clouds very seriously.

HTC does the whole record profit thing again for Q2

Posted: 06 Jul 2011 06:16 AM PDT

Another day, another record profit from the folks at HTC. Surely even the Taiwanese handset manufacturer must be bored of reporting this endless stream of good news, right? Yeah, probably not. The company happily announced this week an impressive second quarter net income of NT$17.5 billion ($608 million), more than double what it reported for the same time period the year prior. Overall revenue for the quarter hit NT$124.4 billion, thanks to the ever-present demand for Android handsets. And revenue from the company is expected to keep on growing in Q3 -- maybe boredom isn't so bad after all.

Another Galaxy S II passes through the FCC, possibly rockin' a Tegra 2

Posted: 06 Jul 2011 05:50 AM PDT

Samsung GT-I9103
What we have here appears to be some variation of the Samsung Galaxy S II, with support for 850MHz and 1900MHz GSM frequencies, making its way through the FCC. Now, we know what you're thinking, "didn't we already see an AT&T ready S II?" Yep, but this one sports a different model number -- GT-I9103, and you know where we've seen that before? Those mysterious Tegra 2-equipped Galaxy S II benchmarks. The rumblings of Sammy's flagship handset coming in two versions, one rocking NVIDIA's mobile chip, aren't without precedent -- Exynos is still fairly young silicon and this could be a way to boost supplies (as we put it, in the most politically correct terms possible) "outside its critical markets." In other words, don't expect to pick one of these up at your local AT&T shop, unless your local store happens to be in St. Petersburg Russia.

Sony's S1 and S2 tablets pose for the cameras again, show off more angles (video)

Posted: 06 Jul 2011 05:24 AM PDT

http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/05/sonys-s1-and-s2-tablets-pose-for-the-cameras-again-show-off-mo/
Sony's S1 and S2 Honeycomb tablets have been very coy in front of the cameras since their initial unveiling. Aside from two visually pleasing short films and a tease of a hands-on, we haven't seen much of them since -- or any specific release details, for that matter. The former's changed at least, however, thanks to Notebook Italia. The site managed to handle the duo long enough in front of a lens to capture a bevy of snapshots, along with a short video of the S1 running PlayStation Suite. If you've been anxious to get a better look you'll find the S1 clip past the break, and all of the photos by hitting the source link below.

Update: Niccolo from HDblog.it wrote in just as this post was going live, offering up another batch of screenshots and another hands-on video. That's down below, enabling double your viewing pleasure, and double your fun.

[Thanks, Lau]




Flush with success, Microsoft hopes Samsung will be its next Android patent bounty

Posted: 06 Jul 2011 04:58 AM PDT

Flush with success, Microsoft hopes Samsung will be its next Android patent bounty
Wistron? Check. HTC? Double-check. Velocity Micro? Been there. Itronix? Done that. Microsoft has found plenty of corporate entities willing to be wooed with its patent-waving ways, and the company hopes the next notch on its bedpost will be a big one: Samsung. Reuters is reporting that Microsoft is after a $15 bounty per Android handset sold, which, if already in place, would have put Sammy $45 million in the hole thanks to the Galaxy S II's successes. Why would Samsung agree to such terms? It's possible Microsoft is requiring that this agreement be put in place for companies that want to produce Windows 8 tablets. Or, maybe it's just because everybody else is playing along. Nobody likes a follower, Samsung, nobody.

Sony brings PSN back online in Japan, wants us to forget about all that hacking nonsense

Posted: 06 Jul 2011 04:14 AM PDT

Sony brings PSN back online in Japan, wants us to forget about all that hacking nonsense
Is it over? Is it finally all over? Sony would certainly like to think so, finally bringing its PSN service back online for gamers in its home country of Japan as expected. PlayStation players throughout most of the world have been getting their Resistance on for at least a month now, US services leading the way back in May, but the Japanese government had previously asked Sony to keep things on the DL until it was doubly, triply sure all was good. Given that it only took three days after that initial re-launch for people to find another PSN exploit, that's looking like it was the right call.

WTO says China's rare earths export controls violate international rules, US applauds

Posted: 06 Jul 2011 03:38 AM PDT

China's monopolistic approach to the rare earths market is in violation of international trade regulations, according to a new ruling from the WTO. The verdict, issued yesterday, covers exports of nine minerals -- including zinc, manganese and magnesium -- that are used to produce a wide variety of smartphones, tablets and other gadgets. China, which controls about 95-percent of the world's rare earth supply, had previously argued that its export restrictions were needed to prevent overproduction and to conserve natural resources, but the WTO determined that the country was "unable to demonstrate" these environmental benefits. The investigation was originally spurred 18 months ago, after the US and other countries complained that China's quotas and tariffs unfairly favored domestic manufacturers, while distorting global prices. Experts expect Beijing to appeal the ruling, but this extra international pressure, combined with shifting supply chains and newfound deposits, may bring about the changes many have been calling for. If it doesn't, we'll all be stuck with corn phones.

Google, MapQuest, Microsoft and Aol sued for allegedly infringing 3D mapping patent

Posted: 06 Jul 2011 02:51 AM PDT

The saga continues for Google's voyeuristic mapping service, but this time Microsoft Streetside and Aol's MapQuest 360 View may be the Bonnie to Street View's Clyde. Transcenic, Inc. is suing the tech giants for acquiring the tools necessary to offer 3D mapping by less-than-legitimate means. The Louisiana-based company alleges that all named parties borrowed, without permission, a bit from a patent it owns on a 3D cartography technology that captures spatial reference images and uses a database to navigate them on command. Google has been in hot water for its maps before, but it no doubt hopes this legal tiff ends as well as its one for trespassing, where it only paid a pack of gum's worth of damages. If you're into reading all the current legalese, check out the source for the full complaint. Meanwhile, we'll find out if Cousin Vinny's on the case.

[Disclosure: Aol is the parent company of Engadget.]

Google+ to require that profiles be visible to all, will boot private profiles after July 31st

Posted: 06 Jul 2011 01:36 AM PDT

Don't want anyone searching for you on Google+? No problem! Just leave your profile marked as private and Google will punt your page from the cloud after July 31st. If you still want your profile around come August, you'll need to mark it as public before that deadline. You can still keep most of your personal details under lock and key, limiting access to specific elements to yourself, your Circles, extended Circles, or anyone on the web -- Google does require that your full name and gender be available to everyone, however. Want your social network profile to be forever visible to you and you alone? MySpace is still around. For a little while longer, at least.

JailbreakMe for the iPad 2 is finally live / not live, just keep refreshing (update: video)

Posted: 06 Jul 2011 12:38 AM PDT

We just mashed our refresh button about a million times to get the screenshot you see above, but it was worth it. JailbreakMe 3.0 with support for the iPad 2 is finally live, and we're already getting word from tipsters who claim to have successfully jailbroken their iPad 2s running iOS 4.3.3, as evidenced by the pseudo-blurry jailbroken Verizon model below. Thankfully, all of this suggests we're not dealing with the dodgy release that was leaked previously, but let us know in the comments how it's working for you this time around and hit the break for another screenshot.

Update: Austin wrote in to tell us about a new jailbreaking tutorial from YouTube user Duncan33303 -- head past the break to watch it for yourself.





[Thanks to Luis for the pic and everyone else who emailed us]

Chocolate printer makes 3D molds of your edible visions

Posted: 06 Jul 2011 12:16 AM PDT

3D has become an industry buzzword du jour. Tack that little epithet onto a consumer-facing product and voila!, you get to charge higher prices for its virtual premium. Well, it looks like a bunch of folks across the pond caught on and decided to throw a little cocoa powder into the mix. Funded by the Research Councils UK's Digital Economy program with oversight by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, as well as being led by the University of Exeter, the University of Brunel and software developer Delcam -- talk about too many cooks -- the tech that previously brought metal and plastic products to life is getting a chocoholic makeover. Using specially designed temperature and heating controls, the printer takes uploaded 3D CAD designs and turns them into the stuff of your sweet toothed dreams. Although you won't be seeing this printer at a boutique near you, there are plans for a made-to-order retail site that'll let you contribute homemade creations or modify someone else's. We understand if this gets your Valentine's anticipating heart all aflutter, but please don't make any actual chocolate hearts -- that's just gross.

The XFX WarPad hopes you never see the top of your desk again (video)

Posted: 05 Jul 2011 11:12 PM PDT

Sick and tired of your pathetic little mousepad? Why not check out the WarPad? It's a massive 16.97 by 13.98 inch surface designed to rid your gaming marathons of mousing friction and the vague discomfort that comes with having the palm of your hand rest on the edge of the pad. The WarPad accomplishes the latter by clipping to the edge of your desk and slowly tapering off the side. XFX's massive single-player gaming mousepad can also slide back and forth on your desk, when you need to make some more room for your Novint Falcon. You can buy the WarPad now for $55. Video after the break.



Project MGS table reads your iPhone's media, gets you hands-on (video)

Posted: 05 Jul 2011 10:19 PM PDT

We know what you're thinking -- an iPhone interfacing with a Surface? The gods must be crazy. Well, it isn't and they're not, so relax. This custom-built, multitouch table of Apple interactivity comes from Computer Science undergrads Artem Vovk and Shuo Yang at the Technische Universität Darmstadt in Germany. Aptly titled Project MGS (Media Gathering System), the system enables wireless transfer of your iPhone's media to the infrared camera-equipped tabletop for some Java-based, gesture controlling fun. How does it know the phone's on there? Simple -- the table locates a barcode affixed to the back of your device and, after that, it's just you and all the pinch-zooming, media-playing mayhem you can muster up. The project also supports file transfers between iOS devices, a feature destined for display in future videos. For now, the tech only plays nice with Apple-flavored mobile devices, but the pair promises it can easily make way for future Android connectivity. Hit the break for the full demonstration and its folksy backing track.

[Thanks, Shuo]

Hotmail turns 15, checks spam folder for misfiled birthday wishes

Posted: 05 Jul 2011 09:03 PM PDT

This Monday marked the 15th anniversary of the birth of Hotmail. That July 4th launch date is no coincidence -- the service's founders intended its release to highlight the symbolism of its independence from more traditional e-mail models. The following year, the service would be snatched up by Microsoft and housed under the software giant's MSN umbrella. The subsequent years haven't always been easy for the brand, thanks in part to competition from Yahoo and Google-owned services. In 2007, the service fired back, revamping and rebranding itself as Windows Live Hotmail. It's been a decade and a half of ups and downs, but the webmail service continues to be one of the most widely used in the world. Got any Hotmail-related memories? Please share them in the comments below.

SK Telecom and LG U+ launch LTE in Seoul, fellow South Koreans seethe with envy

Posted: 05 Jul 2011 08:09 PM PDT

Frustrated by a lack of choice amongst LTE carriers? We sympathize, so join us while we ponder a relocation to Seoul where not one, but two major telcos -- SK Telecom and LG U+ -- have enabled access to the high speed protocol. Service began on July 1st for data devices (read: modems) while phones from Samsung and LG are scheduled to make an appearance this fall. While those in Seoul are already surfing at higher speeds, the LTE wave is slated to go nationwide by 2012 for U+ subscribers and in 2013 for those on SK. Still not enough 3GPP goodness for you? Add the nation's third major carrier KT and their Q3 LTE trials to the mix, and we'll know where to send you next time you're hankering for delectable download speeds with a side of spicy kimchi.

Picasa, Blogger to get renamed: now with more Google?

Posted: 05 Jul 2011 07:27 PM PDT

Google's reportedly trying to put all of its product eggs into one self-branded basket. According to Mashable, two of its most popular services -- Picasa and Blogger -- may go under the branding knife and come out the other side looking like 'Google Photos' and 'Google Blogs.' With the exception of the latter's planned UI overhaul, both services should function exactly the same. The move -- alleged to take place within the next six weeks -- would unify the search king's user offerings ahead of the public launch of Google+. And if that social service's rumored July 31st launch date pans out, we could be seeing this overhaul very soon. But don't expect crown jewel YouTube to receive similar treatment, that site's brand equity already sent its ugly step-sister -- Google Video -- to the grave.

Toshiba Thrive tablet on display at Best Buy, possibly on sale too?

Posted: 05 Jul 2011 06:39 PM PDT

Toshiba Thrive
Yes, what you're looking at is a shackled Toshiba Thrive tablet out in the wild at Best Buy -- not just waiting caged in a cardboard confine in some dreary stockroom. Though the device most likely won't ship until July 10th, "Dandroid" over at Toshiba Thrive Forums is reporting that his local Austin, Texas location is evidently neglecting that memo. The store apparently has several 16GB and 32GB WiFi models ready to fly off the shelves for $480 and $580, but we won't hold our breath until we see a proper YouTube unboxing. Still, it may be worth a detour on the way home if you're feeling lucky or just can't wait any longer to inspect those full-sized ports.

Wii U landing after April 1st 2012, may stream video to controllers

Posted: 05 Jul 2011 06:02 PM PDT

Wii U
Try as you might to maintain your nonchalant demeanor, we know you're fired up about the potential of the Wii U. Well, we won't spill your secrets, but we thought you might like to know that Reggie Fils-Aime, the president of Nintendo of America, recently sat down with David M. Ewalt at Forbes to talk about the company's upcoming console. You'll find the full interview at the source but here are a few of the more interesting tidbits. As you may have guessed, the original Wii won't be disappearing immediately. The two will be sold side by side in stores for at least a little while. Interestingly, while we already knew that games will be playable entirely on the controller, turns out there is nothing technically stopping the console from streaming other media to the portable screen -- including content from your Netflix account. Sadly, you'll be waiting till at least Q2 of 2012 to pick one up -- as Fils-Aime revealed, the next-gen gaming device won't launch until "after April 1st."

Nokia 700 'Zeta' gets classy, dresses in white for leaked press shots

Posted: 05 Jul 2011 05:17 PM PDT

Representing a letter of the Greek alphabet can be a daunting task. The Nokia 700 "Zeta," however, is busy getting primed for the massive duty on hand, indicated by a pair of possible press shots that surfaced from Indian site KnowYourMobile. A comparison of these new pics with the spyshots grabbed last week show very little difference besides the obvious color change, with the 1GHz, Symbian Belle-powered Zeta opting for a white front and chrome back instead of the black and candy-apple combo we saw previously. This could mean that, like many Nokia handsets before it, a rainbow of various hues will be available to choose from the moment the device launches. We sure hope that's soon, because nobody wears white after Labor Day.

[Thanks, Mark]

Netflix for Android gets first HD streaming certification, Texas Instruments accepts your applause

Posted: 05 Jul 2011 04:32 PM PDT

Texas Instruments just called First!... on Netflix, that is. The Watch Instantly app for Android has an HD streaming future coming soon to OMAP 4-equipped devices thanks to the SoC's inbuilt security measures. The announcement marks the first time any Netflix partner has received 'Netflix Silicon Reference Implementation certification,' a clumsily-titled, yet essential requirement for end-to-end protection of mobile streamed 1080p content. The chip's M-Shield security tech "runs on the OMAP processor [without the need for] a dedicated chip or extra CPU cycles," so you're free to multi-task that dual-core (we assume) to its breaking point. And because you can never be too safe, TI's also thrown in its onboard WiLink 7.0 solution -- an industry first -- that makes use of WEP, WPA and WPA2 to keep the unsecured funny business at bay. The only downside to all this joyous high-definition news: it only runs on Gingerbread, so current LG Optimus 3D owners are out of luck until things get up to speed. Hit the break for some densely-worded silicon accolades.
Show full PR text
TI achieves first Netflix HD certification, brings new streaming capabilities to Android devices


Complete with M-Shield™ security technology, OMAP 4 platform enables first secure full HD streaming experience for Netflix on mobile devices to large screens

DALLAS, July 5, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Texas Instruments Incorporated (TI) (NYSE: TXN) today became the first partner to achieve the Netflix Silicon Reference Implementation (SRI) certification for the Netflix HD application on Android. TI's OMAP™ 4 platform, complete with M-Shield™ security technology and TI's quad-radio WiLink™ 7.0 connectivity combo solution, met the Netflix requirements for mobile content streaming, including the ability to run up to full high-definition (HD) 1080p video within strict security measures. This milestone reflects the strength of TI's M-Shield technology on the OMAP 4 platform and marks the first time Netflix has certified its 1080p streaming application with end-to-end protection on a mobile device.

With its dual ARM® Cortex™-A9 MPCore foundation featuring TrustZone®, TI's OMAP 4 platform sets the bar for multimedia-rich Netflix experiences on today's mobile devices. It employs parallel processing for higher performance and better power efficiency, and includes engines that drive consumer-demanded capabilities such as full HD 1080p 30fps multi-standard video and more. Part of the OMAP 4 platform, TI's M-Shield security technology protects premium content and mobile devices from attacks while streaming with the Netflix application. The M-Shield solution implements a hardware-protected, trusted execution environment (TEE), which runs on the OMAP processor, yet does not require a dedicated chip or extra CPU cycles. This allows M-Shield and OMAP architecture to provide optimal playback time, while maintaining low CPU loading so it is free to run other applications.

Additional streaming security was achieved through the use of Wi-Fi-based WEP, WPA and WPA2 protocols, part of TI's WiLink 7.0 solution-the industry's only single chip to include Wi-Fi, Bluetooth®, GPS and FM technologies.

Smartphones and tablets running the Netflix application on the OMAP 4 platform can also connect to larger, HDMI-supported televisions as the OMAP platform's security includes HDCP encryption over the HDMI connection itself.

"Netflix already has a rich heritage of streaming to PCs, Macs, game consoles, Internet-connected TVs, iPhone and iPad, and many set-top-boxes, so we sought a semiconductor partner that could bring our service to the broader mobile environment smoothly and securely," said Bill Holmes, Vice President Business Development, Netflix. "TI's OMAP architecture and M-Shield security will set the stage for a high-performance, low-power, secure platform that will help Netflix members instantly watch unlimited TV shows and movies on Android devices."

"TI is proud to be the first to achieve this coveted certification and to provide the solution that ensures a strong balance of performance, security and power efficiency as Netflix experiences migrate to the mobile world," said Fred Cohen, director of the OMAP User Experience team, TI. "Our OMAP processors deliver rich, life-like experiences on mobile devices, while our M-Shield technology stands as the guard dog, protecting customer, content provider and consumer assets. It's the best of both worlds, driving new growth opportunities for Netflix in the Android marketplace."

TI worked with Trusted Logic to develop the secure middleware component (SMC), which is the OMAP version of Trusted Logic Trusted Foundations™. The SMC executes Trusted Logic TrustedShow™ and an OMAP-optimized implementation of the Netflix-required Microsoft PlayReady™ DRM scheme.

"This Netflix certification represents another milestone in our successful work with the TI team," said Olivier Leger, VP and General Manager, Trusted Logic. "We are thrilled to bring the most advanced features – including premium content distribution and streaming – to various consumer products in a safe, secure manner. Netflix users and stakeholders will benefit from our proven technology, now optimized for TI's M-Shield, and the best possible experiences on their mobile devices."

Support and availability

The OMAP 4 platform's Netflix certification supports Android 2.3 ("Gingerbread") today, with support for additional Android versions planned for this year. Devices with the OMAP 4 processor-driven Netflix application pre-installed will be launched in the near future.

Microsoft, Baidu strike China search deal

Posted: 05 Jul 2011 03:49 PM PDT

When it wanted to increase its search market share in the US, Microsoft sought out a partnership, resulting in a Yahoo-branded engine with Bing-flavored results. So, it seems natural that the company would look for a similar deal in China, the world's largest market, where the company only manages a presence of around one-percent of search. This time, however, Microsoft's managed a deal with the number one search engine, Baidu, which currently lays claim to three-quarters of the Chinese market -- far greater than Google's 20-percent or so. Baidu and MS announced a deal this week that will put Redmond in charge of English searches on the site. No money changed hands with the deal -- Baidu gets advertising revenue, Microsoft gets a larger slice of China's search pie, and we get an excuse to do an image search for Steve Ballmer on a Chinese search engine.

Qualcomm Snapdragon roadmap leaks, Krait slithering on the scene soon

Posted: 05 Jul 2011 03:08 PM PDT

QualcommWe've gotten a few peeks at Qualcomm's next-gen Snapdragon chips, codenamed Krait, but now we've got a proper roadmap, including time frames for release, model numbers, and even details about the memory channels. Glancing at the slide above doesn't reveal anything terribly surprising -- the dual-core 8960 (LTE), 8270 (HSPA), and 8260A (HSPA+) will all be shipping to manufacturers later this quarter, in speeds ranging from 1.5GHz to 1.7GHz and come packing the latest Adreno 225 GPU. In Q3 of next year Qualcomm's 28nm tech will trickle down from the high-end to mid-range phones, just ahead of the launch of those quad-core, 2GHz mobile monsters the company teased back in February. Check out the full PDF presentation at the source for more nitty-gritty details.

Update: Qualcomm has asked us to remove the link to the documentation in question.

[Thanks, Gadgeteer]

Lenovo launches 11.6-inch ThinkPad x121e for Europe, the Japanese market

Posted: 05 Jul 2011 02:32 PM PDT

It's a curious thing about consumer electronics: they often disappear as fast as they hit shelves. That's kind of what happened with Lenovo's ThinkPad x120e: months after our glowing review, it vanished from the company's online store, never to return. (You can still find it through Amazon and other retailers.) And though it remains MIA, Lenovo did just unveil the 11.6-inch ThinkPad x121e for Europe and the Japanese market -- a clear preview of what's on the horizon for us Yanks. This time around, it packs an Intel Core i3-2357 CPU, an AMD Fusion E-350 chip, or a Fusion C-50 APU. Other specs include a 1366 x 768 panel, up to 320GB in HDD storage (or a 128GB solid-state drive), HDMI and VGA out, three USB 2.0 ports (one of them powered), a 4-in-1 memory card reader, and, in some configurations, a WiMAX radio. Depending on the model, it comes with a three- or six-cell battery, the latter of which promises a max of eight-plus hours of battery life if you pair it with an Intel-based system. It's on sale now for Japanese business customers with general availability coming at the end of this month, and it's also listed on various European sites. Lenovo's US division told us it doesn't yet have a timetable to share, so for now you'll just have hit the source links and settle for a vicarious thrill.
Lenovo ThinkPad x121e

Insert Coin: Triggertrap open source automatic camera release (video)

Posted: 05 Jul 2011 01:55 PM PDT

In Insert Coin, we look at an exciting new tech project that requires funding before it can hit production. If you'd like to pitch a project, please send us a tip with "Insert Coin" as the subject line.


Perhaps the simplest function on any camera, the shutter release is typically triggered using a dedicated button, or -- most often in the case of a professional rig -- using a wired or wireless remote. The Triggertrap falls into that latter category, completing the circuit necessary to capture an image after receiving commands from a virtually limitless array of sources. After pairing with your DSLR or ILC using a universal connector, you'll be able to trigger the device to snap a photo using a laser beam (thanks to the built-in photo transistor), sound (a hand clap, for example), or a timer -- typically most applicable to time-lapse photography. An auxiliary port will enable you to get even more creative -- you could release the shutter using a remote control, pressure trigger, or even a cell phone call, for example.

The Triggertrap is well on its way to a Kickstarter campaign goal of $25,000, but there's still time to pre-order a DIY kit for $70, or a turn-key version for five bucks more. As always, Kickstarter will issue a refund if the project isn't funded before the July 31st deadline. Both devices are Arduino based and open source, so you're free to make modifications as you wish -- assuming you don't mind getting your hands dirty with a bit of programming. Jump past the break for a quick demo video, and keep an eye out for the creator's Pringles can DIY macro lens, just past the 13 second mark.

Previous project update: SoBi, the Social Bicycles bike sharing system (and our last Insert Coin project), still needs a very generous push to meet its $75,000 goal, with just over 5 percent of the necessary funding granted so far. A more favorable credit incentive would certainly help -- a 1:1 reward-to-risk ratio doesn't exactly seem to be bringing in the necessary amount of pledges.

Qbo, the open-source robot, interacts with people, makes adorable mistakes (video)

Posted: 05 Jul 2011 01:25 PM PDT

A while back we got a detailed look at the innards of Qbo, TheCorpora's open-source robot. But we haven't gotten to see the little guy in action -- until now. His handlers recently let him loose to run autonomously, guided by a pair of webcam eyes and voice recognition courtesy of Willow Garage's ROS software. The team soon noticed some unexpected behavior, though. Despite being programmed to follow humans at a specific distance, Qbo trailed uncomfortably near with taller people -- probably the first example of a robotic "close walker." Poring over the log files revealed why: proximity was calculated based on faces. The faces of taller people were farther away from the ground-hugging robot, which adjusted accordingly. Roll your way down the page to see more of our cute mechanized friend, and over to the source link for more musings on programming him.

at 12:28 PM

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