Sponsoer by :

Friday, July 22, 2011

Engadget News

Sponsored

Engadget News

HTC Status review

Posted: 22 Jul 2011 11:27 AM PDT

For many smartphone users, a quality keyboard is the only feature that truly matters. These passionate devotees will proudly live and die with their thumbs blazing, and for of all RIM's recent troubles, it's currently floating on a life preserver: a compelling handset with a portrait QWERTY keyboard doesn't exist for Android. The HTC Status ($50 on contract) attempts to succeed where others have failed, and -- if it's any good -- could entice many BlackBerry-toting teens that want a new handheld fixation. They rarely bother with email, as text messages and Facebook reign supreme for communication. To that end, the Status promotes itself as the perfect phone for Facebook users, but is the integration truly useful, or simply a chintzy add-on? More so, can HTC successfully marry Gingerbread with an upright keyboard? Join us after the break to learn whether we "Like" the HTC Status.
HTC Status review

Hardware



The HTC Status has a form factor you know well. Measuring 4.5 inches (114.4mm) tall and 2.54 inches (64.6mm) wide, it's a touch larger than your run-of-the-mill 9700 or E73, but at 0.42 inches (10.7mm) narrow, it's thin where it counts. Like the Nexus S, it has a gentle curve -- or bend, depending on how you look at it -- a design quirk that tilts the screen ever-so-slightly toward the user. At 4.37 ounces (124g), it's relatively light, although we immediately noticed that the weight isn't well-balanced, as the top half is appreciably heavier. Fortunately, it felt very comfortable when held securely.

On the inside, the Status packs a Qualcomm MSM7227 Turbo SoC with an 800MHz CPU and an Adreno 200 GPU. It supports quadband GSM and features HSPA connectivity over the 850 / 1900MHz bands. There's a wide assortment of goodies here, including 512MB of memory, WiFi (up to 802.11n), mobile hotspot functionality, Bluetooth 3.0, AGPS, and FM radio, along with a compass, accelerometer, and proximity and ambient light sensors. Users will find a 2GB microSD card pre-installed, but much to our frustration, the expansion slot is buried beneath the anemic 1250mAh battery.

The first thing you'll notice is the full QWERTY keyboard stretching across the bottom half of the handset -- that and the dedicated Facebook button, which we'll talk about more in a bit. In many ways, the Status takes its design cues from the HTC Flyer. The face of the phone is largely blanketed in a metallic silver coating, save for the chrome speaker grille up top, a curved white strip along the bottom, and a thick black bezel surrounding the display, which contains four haptic navigation buttons. The silvery finish extends around the back to form a broad strip that showcases an engraved HTC logo and separates the camera pod from the battery cover.

Oddly, these upper and lower sections are composed of two distinct white plastics. While the upper portion has an outstanding look and feel that's reminiscent of ceramic, the lower part is woefully thin, which cheapens its attractive satin appearance. To make matters worse, the battery cover is very, very difficult to remove. While the user's manual suggests it can be popped free with two thumbs, we tried this method for ten minutes without success. Instead, HTC should have written the instructions as such:

Sandwich the phone face-down between your palms, squeeze tightly, then push forward without abandon -- the cacophony of key tones is normal, so don't be scared -- just keep forcing it until that damn securely-engineered cover pops free.

Aside from the poorly designed battery door, the Status is well-assembled. It even survived an (unintentional) drop on the hardwood floor completely unscathed. Maybe next time...

Hidden within the chrome speaker grille, you'll discover a green / amber notification light that indicates new messages or a low battery, and there's also a front-facing VGA camera nestled in the bezel. Along the left side of the phone is a short, narrow volume rocker that runs nearly flush with the phone, and while you can press nearly any part of the button to adjust the volume, the rocker feels stiff, with poor tactile feedback. Below that you'll find an exposed micro-USB port. A 3.5mm stereo mini-jack is located up top, positioned to the left of the power / lock button. Around back, a 5 megapixel autofocus camera is paired with an LED flash and a dedicated loudspeaker.

Display

The 2.6-inch (480 x 320) Gorilla Glass touchscreen features approximately 221 pixels per inch. While this is a step below the norm, we still found all but the smallest of text to be quite readable (albeit, marginally blurry). The TFT LCD screen is decently bright, which allowed us to comfortably view the display in direct sunlight. Granted, it wasn't ideal, but we didn't need to run for shade either. While the color saturation diminishes when angled beyond 20 degrees to the left or right, it's significantly better than the EVO Shift 4G we used for comparison.

Keyboard

As for the all-important keyboard, it's quite good. Unlike the never-ending sea of buttons you'll find on the BlackBerry, the Status' island layout allows each domed key to stand separately, and the typing experience is both comfortable and accurate. The buttons are reminiscent of small pebbles, and each key press feels firm and tactile, resulting in a rewarding click. Unfortunately, the underlying panel creates a mushy sound that detracts from an otherwise ideal typing experience. The keyboard integrates a numerical keypad for dialing, along with a dedicated ".com" button and four directional keys that help position the cursor.

Performance and Call Quality

Provided you're not looking to play graphically demanding games, you'll be pleasantly satisfied with the Status' performance. Seriously, you weren't really planning to on honing your Fruit Ninja skills on the little screen, were you? Sure, its 800MHz CPU is no speed demon, but it's doubtful you'll start begging for an upgrade, either. When it comes to the things this phone was meant to do -- browse the internet, play music, poke through galleries, and yes, update Facebook -- you're likely to have a satisfying experience. Unfortunately, the Quadrant benchmark software wasn't able to complete the requisite CPU test, but we've got a host of other benchmarks for your careful scrutiny.

Benchmark HTC Status HTC EVO Shift 4G Samsung Nexus S
Linpack 9.6 33.7 17.4
Nenamark 36.3 41.3 51.6
Nenamark2 7.4 10.6 n / a
Neocore 55.6 57.1 55.6
Sunspider 10,013 4,109 5,879

After enjoying outstanding call quality on the Wildfire S -- also on AT&T's network -- we had high hopes for the Status. Unfortunately, those hopes went unfulfilled. While voices sounded clear, an inescapable hiss emanated from the phone as soon as we started a call. Even during calls to landlines, our friends' voices seemed distant, hollow, and muffled. Worse yet, calls would frequently cut out, forcing friends to repeat what was said. Fortunately, no calls were dropped, and our friends perceived us very clearly and seemed quite satisfied with the depth of our voice.

Battery Life

Given the small display and relatively pedestrian CPU, we'd hoped the 1250 mAh battery would provide sufficient longevity for web browsing, chatting, check-ins and status updates. Unfortunately, any social-savvy user is likely to overwhelm the lithium-ion cells. One day, we enjoyed an hour of music, and three half-hour blocks of web browsing, Facebook messaging, and good ol' voice chat. During this time, we took approximately a dozen pictures, checked into three establishments via Facebook, and sent a smattering of emails, Facebook status updates, and picture uploads. Ten hours later, we were scrambling for a wall outlet. While the battery will certainly carry you through the day, don't expect it to deliver you through the evening, too.

In our standard battery rundown test, we started with a full charge and fresh boot, enabled GPS and WiFi (without connecting to an access point), set the display to 50 percent brightness, configured one push email account, and set Twitter and Facebook to poll every 15 minutes and one hour, respectively. When playing a movie on a continual loop, the handset kept pace for just three hours and thirty minutes, while average runtimes for Android smartphones are nearly twice that

Camera


The five megapixel AF camera is an admirable performer under ideal lighting conditions, and is able to capture a respectable amount of detail, especially when coupled with HTC's tap-to-focus feature. Overall, we were quite pleased with the picture quality, but the camera isn't without setbacks. Unfortunately, if you shoot in direct sunlight, even vivid colors will appear somewhat muted, and bright areas will be frequently overexposed. Meanwhile, pictures taken under artificial lighting appear overly saturated, and proper white balance is often difficult to achieve. The camera also produces an appreciable amount of noise indoors, even at low ISO settings.

As you might expect, the sensor performs poorly in low light situations, and creates an unnatural (though vaguely artistic) effect of overexposing lit areas while underexposing dark patches. There's no macro shooting mode either, and we found that you'll need at least four inches of distance between the lens and your intended object for the shot to be halfway usable. The LED flash is certainly capable of illuminating an indoor scene, but you'll need to be cautious of reflective surfaces, as the built-in bulb can easily overwhelm the sensor. Video resolution goes up to 720 x 480, and while the frame rate can't properly convey fluid motion at this setting, it should be adequate for capturing embarrassing situations that are bound for Facebook.
HTC Status sample shots


Software

HTC Status screenshots

Much to our delight, the Status comes loaded with Android 2.3.3 (Gingerbread). It also features a customized version of HTC's user environment known as Sense 2.1 for Messenger, which retools the familiar UI for the smaller display. While the main screen is quite crowded, many users will likely appreciate the amount of information and content that's immediately accessible from this panel. Rather than the standard weather widget, you'll find a bubble underneath the clock that displays status updates for Facebook and Twitter. Granted, the usefulness here is debatable, but it's certainly cute given the social nature of the phone. There's only five home screens (rather than HTC's standard seven), and the default panel now occupies the leftmost position. The four remaining spaces include widgets for Google search, FriendStream (which aggregates Facebook and Twitter activity), Facebook chat, and an empty panel with a solitary plus icon that's intended to encourage customization. The lock screen is modeled after Sense 3.0, which offers quick access to the dialer, email, camera, and messages by simply dragging the appropriate application onto a ring that's located at the bottom of the display. These icons are also customizable, should you care to replace any with apps of your choosing. Sadly, the notification panel doesn't include the handy Quick Settings menu, which means you must dig through Android's settings to select which radios are enabled.

Seeing that the Status is, after all, a social phone, we were consistently frustrated with the typing experience. Mind you, the hardware is excellent -- we're just griping about software here. As writers, we take pride in our words, and unless something is on fire, it's unlikely you'll find us spelling you're as "youre", or who's as "whos." Since smartphones are supposed to be, you know, smart, we shouldn't ever have to type an apostrophe to form a proper contraction. Sure, this can be resolved by enabling prediction, but then we must contend with astonishing "corrections" such as "Boise" being changed to "noise." We have better things to do than keep tabs on word prediction. With a keyboard this good, our typing is deliberate, intentional, and most of all, accurate. Hence, we need a distinct "Auto Correct" mode that's separate from "Auto Predict." All we're asking for is properly formed contractions. Bonus points for capitalized proper nouns. Just don't make us babysit the prediction engine any longer.

Our pains didn't end with the keyboard software, either. The camera application routinely quit while taking pictures, and while it brought little fanfare -- returning us straight to the HTC Sense home screen -- it desperately needs a remedy. We also noticed there's a dedicated shortcut to the settings menu that should activate by pressing Alt + Space. Unfortunately, unlike the quick access camera button, this link is broken. Worst of all, third-party applications that don't support rotation will force you to hold the phone sideways to read the content. Initially, this was only a minor annoyance, but it turned out to be a huge inconvenience whenever we needed to enter text. Your only option will be typing sideways or viewing your input in an equally awkward manner. Granted, this isn't necessarily HTC's fault, and should serve as a wake-up call to developers, but it doesn't change the fact that all Status owners will be forced to tolerate this inhumane experience.

Facebook


Of course, no review of the HTC Status would be complete without examining its Facebook integration. Intuitively, many assume that this solitary blue square is merely a dedicated shortcut to the Facebook application. In reality, it's a context-sensitive button that's primarily geared toward sharing status updates and links. By default, a single press opens a dialog for updating your status. (We're sure the pun isn't lost on you). Alternatively, you can write on friend's walls or upload pictures. A long-press on the Facebook button reveals a dialog for checking into nearby establishments, along with the ability to create check-in points for previously unlisted destinations. Tapping the Facebook icon from the web browser allows you to share the article you're viewing -- and provide a thoughtful description, such as: "zomg! LAME!! kthxbai." Sharing pictures directly from the photo gallery works in the same manner, and you can tag friends or provide captions before choosing an album destination. If you're currently a social butterfly who posts updates throughout the day, you might find true value in the Facebook button -- if not, it's unlikely to change your habits.

Facebook chat is another primary element of the Status, where a full-screen widget allows you to quickly communicate with other online acquaintances. The instant messaging is incredibly enjoyable to use, and inbound replies were nearly instantaneous. Unless you deliberately sign off, however, you'll appear online and available for chat with friends -- even while you sleep. In other words, even though you'll likely rekindle a few friendships with your new-found availability, you'll probably end up apologizing to just as many contacts that you inadvertently ignored.

Wrap-up


By now it should be obvious that the HTC Status fails to achieve its full potential. Given that it's a device for communication, typing should be flawless, but the software makes it a consistent pain. We hated the battery cover, the battery life is borderline insulting, and there's room for a larger display with greater pixel density, but -- believe it or not -- we'd be willing to forgive these elements if the phone's software felt more polished. We believe HTC will go a long way by simply improving the typing experience, but in order for this form factor to thrive on Android, developers must also rally to support landscape displays in a portrait enclosure. If you're considering the Status as the perfect complement to your Facebook lifestyle, at just $50 on contract, there's still a lot to appreciate. For our part, we're hoping that a better phone is just a software update away.

RIM brings video editing service JayCut into the BlackBerry fold

Posted: 22 Jul 2011 10:55 AM PDT

RIM and JayCut
If it's going to try and compete in the tablet world, whether or not it wants to be known as the enterprise-friendly slate, RIM will have to step up its multimedia game. The company clearly understands this, that's why it's snatched up the online video-editing service JayCut. It's obvious the startup's expertise will be used to create a video editing app for the BlackBerry platform, but we wouldn't be surprised to see some sort of sharing and cloud storage service built on top of it as well. Obviously we're just speculating for now. Check out the brief announcement posts at the two source links.

Sprint readies Nexus S 4G update with improved WiMAX performance, we go hands-on (video)

Posted: 22 Jul 2011 10:00 AM PDT

How would you feel about a little Android 2.3.5 (!) action on that Nexus S 4G of yours? What about some WiMAX performance improvements? You should be getting all that plus WiFi connectivity and speakerphone quality tweaks, along with TTY support on Monday July 25th, which is when Sprint is expected to begin rolling out an OTA update for Samsung's pure Gingerbread handset. We were given an exclusive first look at the new software, and while it's still being finalized, we tested it side-by-side with the original, and our results show a welcome increase in 4G speeds across the board. As you may remember, we observed repeatable WiMAX performance issues with the old software, so this update is excellent news indeed. The amount of improvement will likely depend on your locale, but even in signal-challenged San Francisco and New York we noticed the difference right away -- so kudos to Google, Samsung, and Sprint for addressing this. We also experienced performance in-line with our Epic 4G -- the benchmark device used for our initial testing with the previous firmware version. Take a look at our gallery below, and peek at our hands-on video after the break.
Sprint Nexus S 4G update

Zach Honig contributed to this report.

Show full PR text
Nexus S 4G Software Update Roll Out Begins on July 25, Boosts Data Speeds

Nexus S™ 4G is getting a software update designed to improve 4G data speeds for users and provide several other updates. The release will begin rolling out to Nexus S 4G handsets on Monday, July 25. All users should receive the update in the next three weeks.

In Sprint's preproduction testing, Nexus S 4G showed excellent performance. After receiving feedback from a small number of our customers, we conducted a secondary analysis of its performance with our partners at Google and Samsung and were able to identify some ways we could boost performance on Nexus S 4G.

These enhancements should increase 4G data speeds and signal strength for users. The software update also improves Wi-Fi connectivity, speakerphone audio quality and adds TTY support for the deaf and hard of hearing.

"Nexus S 4G continues to be a highly sought after smartphone and performs very well for our customers. We are excited to make additional enhancements that will provide an even better user experience" said Fared Adib, vice president – Product Development, Sprint. "We're committed to listening to our customers' feedback and working with our partners to provide the best possible customer experience."

Manufactured by Samsung Telecommunications America (Samsung Mobile), a leading global mobile phone provider and the No. 1 mobile phone provider in the United States, Nexus S 4G is the only Nexus S phone with 4G and provides a pure Google experience with Android™ 2.3, Gingerbread, the fastest version of Android available for smartphones.

Additional key features include:

- 1GHz Samsung application processor that produces rich 3D-like graphics, faster upload and download times and supports HD-like multimedia content

- Dedicated Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) to make playing mobile games, browsing the Web and watching videos a fast, fluid and smooth experience

- AMOLED™ touchscreen technology on a 4-inch Contour Display

- 5 megapixel rear-facing camera and camcorder and front-facing VGA camera.

- Gyroscope sensor to provide a smooth gaming experience when the user tilts the device up or down or pans the phone to the left or right

- 3G/4G Mobile Hotspot capability, supporting up to six Wi-Fi enabled devices simultaneously

- Near Field Communication (NFC) technology, which allows the device to read information from everyday objects, like stickers and posters embedded with NFC chips

NTT DoCoMo's Fujitsu F-07C now available, marries Windows 7 and Symbian at last

Posted: 22 Jul 2011 09:22 AM PDT

Calling the Fujitsu LOOX F-07C an eccentric device is not a stretch -- in fact, it's one of the more unique smartphones we've seen in a fair length of time. Now available on NTT DoCoMo, the dual-booting hybrid is touted as "the world's smallest PC," since it can switch between Windows 7 and Symbian and offers a few netbook-worthy specs. It runs off a 1.2GHz Intel Atom Z600 CPU (downclocked by 50 percent, unfortunately), a 32GB eMMC SSD, and 1GB LPDDR400 RAM, packed underneath a 4-inch SVGA (1024 x 600) LCD display. You can also take advantage of the 5-megapixel camera on the back, paired up with a VGA front-facing shooter. Things get a little strange when it comes to battery life, however; while you get up to 600 hours of standby time and 370 minutes of talk time in mobile phone mode, it gets sucked dry after just two hours when using Windows 7. If your smartphone just doesn't have enough brainpower to handle your daily grind, here's an alternative. Full press release with specs are after the break.
Show full PR text
Fujitsu Introduces Windows® 7 F-07C Mobile Phone

A compact PC that fits in the palm of your hands

Tokyo, July 21, 2011 - Fujitsu today announced that the new Windows® 7 F-07C mobile phone will be available in Japan from NTT DOCOMO, Inc. beginning July 23, 2011.

The F-07C mobile phone, featuring Windows® 7, is the world's smallest PC that fits into the palm of the user's hand.

F-07C comes standard with a two-year license for Microsoft® Office Personal 2010-an essential business tool-and other basic PC functionality, in addition to convenient mobile phone features such as Osaifu-Keitai. By combining both PC and mobile phone functionality, F-07C opens the door to a range of new uses.

Background

F-07C is equipped with basic PC functionality, including Windows® 7, an Intel® Atom™ processor, a two-year Microsoft® Office Personal 2010 license, and the latest version of Windows® Internet Explorer® 9. Despite its compact form, users can fully use the F-07C as a PC.

With support for Osaifu-Keitai®, i-mode mail, i-concier®, and other services from Docomo, as well as security features like Omakase Lock®, the new mobile phone allows owners to take advantage of features that they are accustomed to using.

As users can switch between Windows® 7 PC mode and mobile phone mode with just the push of a button, they are able to access the mode of their choice at any time.

1. World's smallest Windows® 7 PC

-Fully equipped with basic PC features
With Windows® 7, an Intel® Atom™ processor, memory and a solid-state drive, the F-07C features functionality identical to that of a PC.
-Includes a two-year Microsoft® Office Personal 2010 license
The mobile phone comes standard with latest versions of common applications that are essential for business. Users can carry Office data that is employed company-wide with them on the go, making it possible to easily revise data while in the field.
-Features Windows® Internet Explorer® 9
The latest version of Windows® Internet Explorer® 9 features improved screen display performance, as well as a simple and easy-to-use user interface. Moreover, the mobile phone also includes Adobe® Flash® Player and Silverlight®, making it possible to browse a wide variety of websites.
-Focus on innovative operations and ease-of-use
A QWERTY keyboard layout, which can be operated the same as on a PC, makes text input smooth, and a trackball and left-click button enable simple mouse-like operations. As a large volume of information can be displayed on the mobile phone's 4-inch (1024 × 600) high-resolution LCD screen, scrolling is hassle-free when browsing the Internet.

2. Convenient mobile phone features like Osaifu-Keitai and security functions can be used without any special procedures

-Supports a wide range of services from Docomo
The mobile phone supports i-mode mail, as well as Osaifu-Keitai®, i-channel, i-concier, Oazukari Service for mobile phone data, and the latest services from Docomo, thereby giving owners access to features they are accustomed to using.
-Advanced security features
F-07C also supports i-mode services like Omakase Lock® and Mobile Phone Location Service™. In the event that the mobile phone is lost, users can remotely lock it and determine its approximate location, enabling worry-free operations.

3. Can be connected to peripheral devices with a USB/HDMA cradle set (sold separately)

By hooking up a keyboard or mouse to the USB port, users can easily edit Office files or connect to a printer to print. In addition, after connecting the mobile phone to a large-screen TV via an HDMA output connector, users can enjoy websites or captured photographs on the big screen.

Product Specifications

Size: 125 × 61 × 19.8 mm (19.8 mm at thickest point)
Weight: 218 g (with battery pack)
Continuous Standby Time: ~600 hours in FOMA 3G
Continuous Talk Time:
~370 minutes in FOMA 3G voice mode
~170 minutes in videophone mode
Display: ~4" wide SVGA touchscreen (1024 × 600 resolution)
Camera: (back side) 5.1 megapixel effective resolution, CMOS sensor
(inside) 0.32 megapixel effective resolution, CMOS sensor (0.17 megapixel in Windows® 7 mode)
Color: Navy Black

Windows® 7 mode

OS: Windows® 7 Home Premium 32 bit Full Version (with SP1)
CPU: Intel® Atom™ Z600 processor (supports HT technology) (1.20GHz)
Main memory: Comes standard with 1GB/max 1GB (LPDDR400)
SSD: ~32 GB (eMMC)
Wireless LAN: IEEE802.11b/g/n (communications speed: up to 65Mbps)
Windows® 7 battery life: ~2 hours in Windows® 7 mode

Visualized: this gel-filled Sprint head is testing all sorts of futurephones

Posted: 22 Jul 2011 08:54 AM PDT

Chamber testing is most certainly nothing new for your average carrier -- every one of the big boys here in the States already does something similar to this -- but it's not often that we're given an inside look at what exactly happens within those elusive doors. During a recent Sprint campus walkthrough, we peeked into the carrier's network development lab for a glimpse at what it takes to certify a phone for use on its network. Granted, the vast majority of Sprint's testing is done elsewhere across the industry, and we were informed that the yellow dome shown above is actually a minty fresh model that includes "gel" within its borders, seemingly to produce a more realistic testing ground. You know -- because human brains are clearly shrinking, while craniums are being increasingly filled with nondescript fluids. All jesting aside, we were told that this is the place where Sprint ensures Antennagate never comes to its side of town, and every Now Network phone (present and future) has to roll through here before being allowed out. The reason? Sprint needs to be absolutely certain that there's no stray radio emissions bleeding into frequencies that it doesn't support, and of course, to ask the Verizon guy if he can hear him now.
Sprint HQ reception test head

Toshiba Regza 32BC3 HDTV features power saving button, destined for Japanese shores

Posted: 22 Jul 2011 08:25 AM PDT

Regza 32BC3
The latest member of Toshiba Regza family of HDTVs, the 32BC3, just had it's pretty little IPS face revealed in Japan. Unlike most sets you see these days, this 32-incher sports only a 1,366 × 768 panel. But what makes the BC3 special isn't its resolution, its the ability to conserve power by dramatically dropping the brightness (supposedly with out sacrificing image quality) with just the push of a button. Pressing the power save button on the remote drops the brightness by 50-percent, press it again and it dips down 75-percent. The Regza 32BC3 will land on shelves in Japan this September for around ¥ 65,000 (about $830). And, as usual with these slightly odd sets out of the land of the rising sun, there's no word of when (if ever) this will make it state-side.

Lenovo's 7-inch IdeaPad caught by Mr. Blurrycam?

Posted: 22 Jul 2011 07:48 AM PDT

We spied a mystery FCC listing just the other day, filed under a no-name company but bearing some unmistakable Lenovo markings. Now we have another unidentified device bearing the same branding and, according to our friendly neighborhood tipster, this is the company's 7-inch IdeaPad, which might be (internally) dubbed the A1-07. It's said to be powered by a TI OMAP3621 processor (which also drives the Nook Color), features a 7-inch 1024 x 600 touchscreen, a Broadcom GPS unit, 3G wireless with a SIM slot, and room for a microSD card as well. A 3,700mAh battery supposedly keeps things juiced, both front- and rear-facing cameras are on offer, and it's all wrapped in a glossy plastic styling that makes it look a little like a TouchPad with some bare metal highlights. It also features three buttons up front that we're hoping don't mean it's been relegated to Android 2.x. Now, the image above (and the second one, below) have obviously been crudely modified to hide something, and we can't be sure of what we're looking at here, but it's interesting enough for us to pass these along. Have a gander and let us know what you think in comments.

[Thanks, Anonymous]

Toyota's new crash-avoidance technology takes control of the wheel

Posted: 22 Jul 2011 07:21 AM PDT

Crash-avoidance technology in cars is hardly anything new, of course, but Toyota's gone a bit further than most with its latest effort. While complete details are still a bit light (including any word of an actual rollout to vehicles), the new system is said to use a combination of both front and rear cameras, and millimeter wave radar technology to detect pedestrians or obstacles that could lead to a crash. The real kicker, however, is that when the car does detect a possible collision, it actually takes control of the wheel to avoid it instead of just stopping the vehicle. What's more, that's just one new safety measure that Toyota recently showed off to reporters in Tokyo -- it's also working on things like a pop-up hood that could provide some additional protection in the event of a crash, and a steering wheel that can measure the driver's heartbeat and avoid a crash if they suffer a heart attack.

Android App Player leaks out on to BlackBerry PlayBook

Posted: 22 Jul 2011 06:49 AM PDT

Android App Player leaks out on to BlackBerry PlayBook
Back in April, when we put the PlayBook through its paces, we were disappointed to find it lacked the previously promised, and eventually teased, Android Player. Well, the time has finally come -- at least for those of you, who don't mind getting your hands, and tablet, dirty with leaked software. The folks over at n4bb snatched up a beta version of the program, which brings nearly 250,000 little-green-monster apps to the BB slab, but point out that it's got its drawbacks. Aside from altogether lacking a back button, this build apparently has some lagging issues. If you're the adventurous type, however, you can download and sideload the appropriate file by clicking on the source link below. But if your PlayBook gets covered in all sorts of leaky beta goo, don't come running to us -- it is unofficial after all.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Lodsys adds Rovio, Atari, EA and others to patent suit, makes birds even angrier

Posted: 22 Jul 2011 06:18 AM PDT

Lodsys vs. Angry Birds
If you thought Lodsys was done making a spectacle of itself and dragging app developers to court, you were sorely mistaken. The king of the patent trolls has amended its original complaint against mobile devs, removing one company, but adding five new ones -- all of them big names. Rovio, Electronic Arts, Square Enix, Atari, and Take-Two Interactive have been added to the list of defendants in the suit filed back in May. Vietnamese company Wulven Games has been dropped from the complaint, but Lodsys has more than made up for it by directly targeting possibly the largest mobile title out there -- Angry Birds. You can find the completely amended filing at the source link and, if you're in the mood for a bit of a refresher, check out the more coverage link.

Android Market embraces fragmentation, allows multiple APKs for a single app

Posted: 22 Jul 2011 05:43 AM PDT


Google wants to keep its third-party app developers 'appy by letting them upload multiple APKs to the Android Market under a single product title. This means developers can subtly offer different versions of their app to suit different devices and OS versions without having to worry about mixed-up download stats, user reviews or billing data. They can also tailor their software to exploit the capabilities of a new handset or tablet without having to mess with their existing customers. What will the App Guy have to say about this?

Verizon has best quarter since 2008, thanks largely to iPhones and LTE

Posted: 22 Jul 2011 05:23 AM PDT

Hot on the heels of AT&T's happy earnings tidbits yesterday, VZW's latest figures also show that it's raking the money in nice and regular. Total operating revenues in Q2 were $27.5 billion -- that's up half a billion on Q1 2011 and 6.3 percent on Q2 2010 (on a non-GAAP basis). The Big Red claims 2.2 million net additions to its wireless customer base, contributing to a 6.6 percent year-on-year increase in wireless service revenues and a 22.2 percent increase in wireless data revenues.

Company execs were especially pleased with the sale of 2.3 million iPhones during the spring, despite the iPhone 5 "being delayed by more than a quarter." Unfortunately they didn't clarify whether the next iPhone was really delayed, or just likely to arrive later than they expected. LTE phones and dongles also proved popular, shifting 1.2 million units and helping to boost Verizon's average revenue per unit. Together, LTE and iPhone devices accounted for 69 percent of new additions. Chairman and CEO Ivan Seidenberg summed it all up as "one of Verizon's best quarters since the 2008 economic downturn." You'll find the full earnings report after the break.
Show full PR text
Verizon Reports Accelerated Revenue Growth, Expanded Margins and Strong 2Q Earnings Performance

2Q HIGHLIGHTS

Consolidated

• 57 cents in diluted earnings per share (EPS), compared with a loss of 42 cents per share and adjusted EPS (non-GAAP) of 51 cents in 2Q 2010.

Wireless

• 6.6 percent year-over-year increase in service revenues in 2Q 2011; data revenues up 22.2 percent; 27.1 percent operating income margin and 45.4 percent Segment EBITDA margin on service revenues (non-GAAP).

• 2.2 million net additions, excluding acquisitions and adjustments, includes 1.3 million retail postpaid net customer additions; 106.3 million total connections, includes 89.7 million retail customers.

• Retail postpaid churn of 0.89 percent, the lowest in three years.

Wireline

• 189,000 FiOS Internet and 184,000 FiOS TV net additions.

• 9.4 percent year-over-year increase in consumer ARPU; FiOS consumer retail revenues represent approximately 57 percent of total consumer revenues.

• 17.8 percent increase in strategic services revenues, representing approximately 48 percent of total global enterprise revenues.

Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE, NASDAQ: VZ) today reported accelerated revenue growth and improved margins across its business groups, leading to a strong earnings performance in second-quarter 2011.

Verizon reported 57 cents in EPS in the quarter, compared with a second-quarter 2010 loss of 42 cents per share.

There are no adjustments to second-quarter 2011 earnings results. Adjusted second-quarter 2010 earnings were 51 cents per share, excluding the impact of divestitures and non-operational charges (non-GAAP). The most significant 2010 charges related to a workforce-reduction incentive offer that led to approximately 11,900 voluntary separations last year.

Strong, Positive Momentum

"In terms of earnings growth and the acceleration of revenue growth, this has been one of Verizon's best quarters since the 2008 economic downturn," said Chairman and CEO Ivan Seidenberg. "We expanded sequential margins in both our wireline and wireless businesses, and in the second half of the year we expect Verizon to build on this strong, positive momentum to continue to drive profitable, sustainable growth."

Seidenberg added: "We expect Verizon Wireless to gain share in the retail postpaid market and widen its network-quality lead throughout 2011. We also continue to see strong customer demand for FiOS Internet and TV, and for cloud and other strategic services. At the same time, we remain focused on our cost structure, as we deliver improvements in wireline margins quarter after quarter."

Consolidated Revenue Growth Accelerates

On a consolidated basis, Verizon's total operating revenues were $27.5 billion in second-quarter 2011, an increase of 2.8 percent compared with second-quarter 2010. Last year's results included revenues from operations that have since been divested.

On a comparable basis (non-GAAP), second-quarter 2011 total operating revenues increased 6.3 percent compared with second-quarter 2010. This was Verizon's strongest quarter for consolidated revenue growth in 10 quarters.

Also on a comparable basis, consolidated EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) for second-quarter 2011 totaled $9.0 billion, up 5.2 percent year over year.
Cash flow from operating activities totaled $12.8 billion in the first half of 2011, down from $16.8 billion in the first half of 2010. Last year's total included cash flow from businesses that have since been divested and the timing of favorable tax-related impacts, and 2011 totals include inventory purchases for wireless devices and the impact of previously announced pension-fund payments in first-quarter 2011. Verizon said its cash flow outlook for the remainder of 2011 remains very strong.

The company aggressively invested in growth opportunities in the first half of 2011. One example is the deployment of Verizon's nationwide 4G LTE (fourth-generation, Long-Term Evolution) wireless broadband network. In first-half 2011, Verizon's capital expenditures totaled $8.9 billion, compared with $7.6 billion in first-half 2010.

Verizon continues to expect full-year 2011 capital spending to be similar to its 2010 investment of $16.5 billion.

Verizon Wireless Deliver Another Strong Quarter

Verizon Wireless delivered strong growth in revenues, retail customers and other connections, driven by increased smartphone penetration and increased retail postpaid ARPU (average monthly service revenue per user). In the second quarter of 2011:
Wireless Financial Highlights

• Service revenues in the quarter totaled $14.7 billion, up 6.6 percent year over year. Data revenues were $5.8 billion, up $1.1 billion or 22.2 percent year over year, and represent 39.5 percent of all service revenues. Total revenues were $17.3 billion, up 10.2 percent year over year.

• Retail postpaid ARPU grew 1.9 percent or $1.00 over second-quarter 2010, to $54.12. Retail postpaid data ARPU increased to $21.26, up 15.2 percent year over year. Retail service ARPU also grew 1.9 percent, to $52.49.

• Wireless operating income margin was 27.1 percent. Segment EBITDA margin on service revenues (non-GAAP) was 45.4 percent.

Wireless Operational Highlights

• Verizon Wireless added 2.2 million total connections, including 1.3 million retail postpaid customers, and 890,000 wholesale and other connections. These additions exclude acquisitions and adjustments.

• At the end of the second quarter, the company had 106.3 million total connections, an increase of 6.6 percent year over year, including 89.7 million retail customers and 16.6 million wholesale and other connections.

• At the end of the second quarter, smartphones were 36 percent of Verizon Wireless' retail postpaid customer phone base, up from 32 percent at the end of first-quarter 2011.

• Retail postpaid churn was 0.89 percent, the lowest in the industry and the company's lowest since second-quarter 2008. Total retail churn was 1.22 percent, an improvement of 9 basis points year over year and 11 basis points sequentially.

• Verizon Wireless continued to roll out its 4G LTE mobile broadband network during the quarter. As of yesterday (July 21), Verizon Wireless 4G LTE service is available in 102 markets across the country, covering a population of more than 160 million. By year-end, Verizon Wireless' 4G LTE network, the fastest and most advanced LTE network in the U.S., is expected to be available in more than 175 markets across the country, covering a population of more than 185 million.

• The company introduced three new 4G LTE devices: the Droid Charge by Samsung, Revolution by LG and the MiFi 4510L 4G LTE Mobile Hotspot by Novatel Wireless. The company also announced that the 4G LTE-enabled Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 is available for pre-order; the device is expected to launch by the end of this month. During the second-quarter 2011, Verizon Wireless sold 1.2 million 4G LTE smartphones and Internet data devices.

• Verizon Wireless continued to invest in and enhance its 3G network, the nation's largest and most reliable 3G network.

• During the quarter, Verizon Wireless deployed crisis response teams to help customers stay connected in areas devastated by disasters including the North Dakota floods, Arizona wildfires and Joplin, Mo., tornado.
Improved Revenue Trends in Wireline
Verizon's Wireline segment continued to expand margins, supported by improved revenue trends. In the second quarter of 2011:

Wireline Financial Highlights

• Segment EBITDA margin (non-GAAP) was 23.8 percent, compared with 22.4 percent in second-quarter 2010. This was Wireline's fifth consecutive quarter of sequential EBITDA margin expansion.

• Second-quarter 2011 operating revenues were $10.2 billion, a decline of 0.3 percent compared with second-quarter 2010. This is an improvement from a decline of 2.2 percent comparing first-quarter 2011 to first-quarter 2010. Verizon acquired cloud and managed IT infrastructure leader Terremark Worldwide in April, and the inclusion of Terremark results added $98 million in revenue, representing 100 basis points of wireline revenue growth, in second-quarter 2011.

• Revenues for Verizon's FiOS fiber-optic services to consumer retail customers generated approximately 57 percent of consumer wireline revenues in second-quarter 2011, compared with approximately 48 percent in second-quarter 2010.

• Consumer revenues grew 1.3 percent compared with second-quarter 2010. Consumer ARPU for wireline services was $92.44 in second-quarter 2011, up 9.4 percent compared with second-quarter 2010. ARPU for FiOS customers continues to be more than $146.

• Global enterprise revenues totaled $4.0 billion in the quarter, up 3.6 percent compared with second-quarter 2010. Sales of strategic services -- including Terremark cloud services, security and IT solutions, and strategic networking -- increased 17.8 percent compared with second-quarter 2010 and now represent approximately 48 percent of global enterprise revenues.

Wireline Operational Highlights

• Verizon added 189,000 net new FiOS Internet connections and 184,000 net new FiOS TV connections in second-quarter 2011. Verizon had a total of 4.5 million FiOS Internet and 3.8 million FiOS TV connections at the end of the quarter.

• FiOS penetration (subscribers as a percentage of potential subscribers) is now 30 percent or more for both services. FiOS Internet penetration was 34 percent at the end of second- quarter 2011, compared with 30 percent at the end of second-quarter 2010. In the same periods, FiOS TV penetration was 30 percent, compared with 26 percent, respectively. The FiOS network passed 16.1 million premises at mid-year 2011.

• Broadband connections totaled 8.6 million at the end of second-quarter 2011, a 3.3 percent year-over-year increase. FiOS Internet connections more than offset a decrease in DSL-based HSI connections, resulting in a net increase of 62,000 broadband connections from first-quarter 2011. Total voice connections, which measures FiOS Digital Voice connections in addition to traditional switched access lines, declined 7.9 percent to 25.0 million -- the smallest year-over-year decline since second-quarter 2007.

• During the quarter Verizon continued to execute its global cloud strategy, rolling out an expanded portfolio of secure IT solutions and an operational model for its Terremark subsidiary. Verizon also continued to deploy integrated IT and communications solutions for multinational enterprise, medium-sized and government customers. These solutions included expansion of the company's managed mobility services for tablets, mobile access to cloud-based SAP applications and enhanced security management programs for health care providers. Verizon also completed new agreements with a range of multinational corporations, including Constellation Energy, Epsilon, Masco Corp. and PHH Corp.

• Verizon expanded its global network infrastructure during the quarter as it continued to broaden its scope and capabilities. The company installed 63 additional Private IP edge routers for a total of 915 edge routers in 245 sites throughout 63 countries, activated more than 1,500 kilometers (932 miles) of ultra-long-haul network across the southern part of the United Kingdom, and completed a joint fiber build in Singapore, which almost doubles the coverage of the Singapore fiber-optic network. Verizon continued to demonstrate leadership in scaling the global IP network and kicked off the expansion of 100G IP backbone capabilities in the U.S. to nine routes.

NOTE: Reclassifications of prior period amounts have been made, where appropriate, to reflect comparable operating results for the divestiture of overlapping wireless properties in 105 operating markets in 24 states during the first half of 2010; the wireless deferred revenue adjustment that was disclosed in Verizon's Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2010; and the spinoff to Frontier of local exchange and related landline assets in 14 states, effective on July 1, 2010. See the accompanying schedules and www.verizon.com/investor for reconciliations to generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) for non-GAAP financial measures cited in this document.

NOTE: This presentation contains statements about expected future events and financial results that are forward-looking and subject to risks and uncertainties. For those statements, we claim the protection of the safe harbor for forward-looking statements contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The following important factors could affect future results and could cause those results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements: the effects of adverse conditions in the U.S. and international economies; the effects of competition in our markets; materially adverse changes in labor matters, including labor negotiations, and any resulting financial and/or operational impact; the effect of material changes in available technology; any disruption of our key suppliers' provisioning of products or services; significant increases in benefit plan costs or lower investment returns on plan assets; the impact of natural disasters, terrorist attacks, breaches of network or information technology security or existing or future litigation and any resulting financial impact not covered by insurance; technology substitution; an adverse change in the ratings afforded our debt securities by nationally accredited ratings organizations or adverse conditions in the credit markets impacting the cost, including interest rates, and/or availability of financing; any changes in the regulatory environments in which we operate, including any increase in restrictions on our ability to operate our networks; the timing, scope and financial impact of our deployment of broadband technology; changes in our accounting assumptions that regulatory agencies, including the SEC, may require or that result from changes in the accounting rules or their application, which could result in an impact on earnings; our ability to complete acquisitions and dispositions; and the inability to implement our business strategies.

Verizon promotes Lowell McAdam to CEO, Ivan Seidenberg stays on as Chairman

Posted: 22 Jul 2011 04:59 AM PDT

Verizon promotes Lowell McAdam to CEO, Ivan Seidenberg stays on as Chairman
Ivan Seidenberg, the man who took the helm as Big Red steered its ship into the iPhone's waters, is stepping down as CEO effective August 1st, the completion of a succession plan that's been underway since last year. His replacement? Current President Lowell McAdam, who helped lead the charge to bring Apple's smartphone to the company's subscribers -- and who proudly stood on stage with Apple's Tim Cook to announce it. Seidenberg will remain Chairman for the time being to help aid in the transition, and while we're not sure for just how long that will be, we wonder if maybe he's not just waiting to pick up a Bionic before heading out.

Show full PR text
Verizon Names Lowell McAdam as CEO; Ivan Seidenberg to Remain Chairman

The Verizon Board of Directors has named Verizon President and COO Lowell C. McAdam as president and chief executive officer of Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE, NASDAQ: VZ), effective Aug. 1, completing the company's CEO succession process under way since 2010. Ivan G. Seidenberg will step down from the CEO role but remain chairman to continue to facilitate the transition.

McAdam will have responsibility for the operations of Verizon, including all business units and staff functions.

Seidenberg said, "Lowell's appointment to CEO is testimony to his extraordinary record of achievement. As a member of Verizon's executive leadership team since 2000 and COO over the last 10 months, Lowell has proven his ability to move the organization quickly and to focus on strong performance on behalf of our employees, our customers and our investors. His stellar leadership of Verizon Wireless and his outstanding 28-year career in the telecommunications industry have positioned Lowell to understand the potential of our company and the actions that need to be taken every day to attain that potential. The board and I are excited by what Lowell brings to our company: his outstanding character, his conviction and his dedication to Verizon's success."

In his current role, McAdam, 57, is responsible for all business operations at Verizon, including the strategic direction of the company's products and technologies. He has served on the board of Verizon since March 2011 and on the board of Verizon Wireless since 2003, chairing the Verizon Wireless board since September 2010.

As president and CEO of Verizon Wireless until September 2010, McAdam led the premier wireless provider with the nation's largest, most reliable wireless voice and 3G broadband data network. Prior to assuming this position in 2007, McAdam served as executive vice president and chief operating officer of Verizon Wireless from the company's inception in 2000, helping to build the industry's leading wireless company.

Previously, McAdam was president and CEO of PrimeCo Personal Communications, a joint venture owned by Bell Atlantic and Vodafone AirTouch. He also served as PrimeCo's chief operating officer, responsible for overseeing the building, deployment and successful launch of the new company's customer service operations and all-digital network.

McAdam has served as vice president - international operations for AirTouch Communications and was lead technical partner for cellular ventures in Spain, Portugal, Sweden, Italy, Korea and Japan. McAdam joined AirTouch as executive director of international applications and operations in 1993. Prior to that, he held various executive positions with Pacific Bell.

He earned a bachelor's degree in engineering from Cornell University and a master's degree in business administration from the University of San Diego. He also spent six years in the U.S. Navy's Civil Engineer Corps and is a licensed professional engineer.

Vizio Tablet tiptoes into retail, starting at Costco

Posted: 22 Jul 2011 04:46 AM PDT

We know it's been a long wait since CES, but after getting pawed at by both Blake Griffin and yours truly, the Vizio Tablet is starting to show up in stores right about on schedule. Frequent Engadget commenter DaHarder took a step away from the Disqus box and snagged this tablet at a local Costco store for $329 ($20 off the regular price), an achievement also unlocked by the folks at Mobileslate. According to their reports you may have to ask around to find out if the VTAB1008 is actually in stock but it may be lurking along with its $40 Accessories Kit, while it's already showing in stock on the Vizio online store. Impressions so far suggest a "budget" tablet experience above that of the flood of craptablets with decent hardware and battery life, but a software experience behind the top of the line slates due to the custom UI, small internal storage and RAM and slower single core Marvell CPU. Our review is yet to come, but if there's around three bills burning a hole in your pocket and you've just got to have an Android tablet with integrated IR blaster, we're not seeing too many other options available.

[Thanks, DaHarder]

Android deals just got weird: free phones for pants, free flights for phones

Posted: 22 Jul 2011 04:16 AM PDT

Android deals just got weird: free phones for pants, free flights for phones
Next time you're trying on a pair of (non musical) jeans, why not snag a free Android phone to help fill their roomy pockets? And while you're shopping for that big trip you've got planned, you can let "HTC Airlines" book that flight for you. Honest, it's no trouble at all. Well, it's a little trouble. Wet Seal's "try on some pants and get a free phone" deal comes attached to a two-year contract, and those flights? Still free, but only if you happen to be picking up your HTC Status or Salsa in Germany. You didn't expect them to offer a free ride to just anybody, anywhere, did you?

Google says goodbye to browser toolbar, drops support for Firefox 5

Posted: 22 Jul 2011 03:28 AM PDT

Google says goodbye to browser toolbar, drops support for Firefox 5
Google Labs isn't the only thing winding down in Mountain View, it seems Google's Firefox toolbar is also kaput. Citing exponential growth in the browser space, the outfit declared that the Google toolbar for Firefox is no longer necessary -- modern browsers are just too darn capable. Support will continue for older versions of the browser, but Firefox 5 will have to stand on its own. Still, El Goog admits that dropping the toolbar kills more than a few features, and is offering a list of similarly featured add-ons to users via the defunct toolbar's help page. Not enough? Head on over to the announcement's comment page and join the peanut gallery, a few clever legumes seem to have uncovered a FF5 workaround. As for the rest of us, it's not like we didn't know Google had its own browser (and interests) to take care of, right?

Droid Bionic's secrecy betrayed on Amazon, by simple dock listings

Posted: 22 Jul 2011 01:29 AM PDT

We had our hands on a raw version of the Droid Bionic way back at CES, but two listings on Amazon for desktop and car docking stations, uncovered by Android Central forum posters, may give the clearest look at the phone so far. As you can see in the shot above of the desktop dock Motorola's slab appears to have a chrome ring running around the outside, while the dock itself has a 3.5mm audio out, HDMI output and USB ports. There's no price or release date listed for either accessory but if you've been lusting over the beast and its rumored specs we're figuring some quiet time with these shots is just what the doctor ordered -- check after the break for a shot of the car dock and the back of the desktop docking station.

IBM rig doesn't look like much, scans 10 billion files in 43 minutes

Posted: 22 Jul 2011 12:35 AM PDT

Someone ought to gift these IBM researchers a better camera, because their latest General Parallel File System is a back-slapping 37 times faster than their last effort back in 2007. The rig combines ten IBM System xSeries servers with Violin Memory SSDs that hold 6.5 terabytes of metadata relating to 10 billion separate files. Every single one of those files can be analyzed and managed using policy-guided rules in under three quarters of an hour. That kind of performance might seem like overkill, but it's only just barely in step with what IBM's Doug Balog describes as a "rapidly growing, multi-zettabyte world." No prizes for guessing who their top customer is likely to be. Full details in the PR after the break.
Show full PR text


Made in IBM Labs: Researchers Demonstrate Breakthrough Storage Performance for Big Data Applications

IBM GPFS Storage Technology Scans 10 Billion Files in 43 Minutes


SAN JOSE, CA, July 22, 2011: Researchers from IBM (NYSE: HYPERLINK "http://www.ibm.com/investor" IBM) today demonstrated the future of large-scale storage systems by successfully scanning 10 billion files on a single system in just 43 minutes, shattering the HYPERLINK "http://www-03.ibm.com/press/us/en/pressrelease/22405.wss" previous record of one billion files in three hours by a factor of 37.

Growing at unprecedented scales, this advance unifies data environments on a single platform, instead of being distributed across several systems that must be separately managed. It also dramatically reduces and simplifies data management tasks, allowing more information to be stored in the same technology, rather than continuing to buy more and more storage.

In 1998, IBM Researchers unveiled a highly scalable, clustered parallel file system called General Parallel File System ( HYPERLINK "http://www-03.ibm.com/systems/software/gpfs/" GPFS), which was furthered tuned to make this breakthrough possible. GPFS represents a major advance of scaling for storage performance and capacity, while keeping management costs flat. This innovation could help organizations cope with the exploding growth of data, transactions and digitally-aware sensors and other devices that comprise Smarter Planet systems. It is ideally suited for applications requiring high-speed access to large volumes of data such as data mining to determine customer buying behaviors across massive data sets, seismic data processing, risk management and financial analysis, weather modeling and scientific research.

Driving New Levels of Storage Performance

Today's breakthrough was achieved using GPFS running on a cluster of 10 eight core systems and solid state storage, taking 43 minutes to perform this selection. The GPFS management rules engine provides the comprehensive capabilities to service any data management task.

GPFS's advanced algorithm makes possible the full use of all processor cores on all of these machines in all phases of the task (data read, sorting and rules evaluation). GPFS exploits the solid state storage appliances with only 6.8 terabytes of capacity for excellent random performance and high data transfer rates for containing the metadata storage. The appliances sustainably perform hundreds of millions of data input-output operations, while GPFS continuously identifies, selects and sorts the right set of files among the 10 billion on the system.

"Today's demonstration of GPFS scalability will pave the way for new products that address the challenges of a rapidly growing, multi-zettabyte world," said Doug Balog, vice president, storage platforms, IBM. "This has the potential to enable much larger data environments to be unified on a single platform and dramatically reduce and simplify data management tasks such as data placement, aging, backup and migration of individual files."

The previous record was also set by IBM researchers at the Supercomputing 2007 conference in Reno, NV, where they demonstrated the ability to scan one billion files in three hours.

"Businesses in every industry are looking to the future of storage and data management as we face a problem springing from the very core of our success – managing the massive amounts of data we create on a daily basis," said Bruce Hillsberg, director of storage systems, IBM Research – Almaden. "From banking systems to MRIs and traffic sensors, our day-to-day lives are engulfed in data. But, it can only be useful if it is effectively stored, analyzed and applied, and businesses and governments have relied on smarter technology systems as the means to manage and leverage the constant influx of data and turn it into valuable insights."

IBM Research continues to develop innovative storage technologies to help clients not only manage data proliferation, but harness data to create new services. In the past year alone, IBM storage products included over five significant storage innovations invented by IBM Research including IBM Easy Tier, Storwize V7000, Scale-out Network Attached Storage (SONAS), IBM Information Archive and IBM Long Term File System (LTFS).

As the size of digital data increased 47 percent over last year, businesses are under tremendous pressure to quickly turn data into actionable insights, but grapple with how to manage and store it all. As new applications emerge in industries from financial services to healthcare, traditional data management systems will be unable to perform common but critical storage management tasks, leaving organizations exposed to critical data loss.

Anticipating these storage challenges decades ago, researchers from IBM Research – Almaden created GPFS to help businesses cope with the exploding growth of data, transactions and digitally-aware devices on a single system. Already deployed to perform tasks like backup, information lifecycle management, disaster recovery and content distribution, this technology's unique approach overcomes the challenge of managing unprecedented large file systems with the combination of multi-system parallelization and fast access to file system metadata stored on a solid state storage appliance.

Additional details on the breakthrough can be found at here.

Wolfram launches open CDF format, adds visual pizzazz to charts and graphs

Posted: 21 Jul 2011 11:22 PM PDT

Amazon's Kindle DX and RIM's BlackBerry PlayBook were supposed to be the business world's answer to an on-the-go office. Turns out, PDFs viewed in e-ink or on a tethered slate don't offer much in the way of interactive app experiences -- they're still just documents, no matter the tablet they're wearing. Well, Wolfram Group's got an open format contender to Adobe's throne and it's hoping you'll adopt it. Introduced today, the Computable Document Format "puts easy-to-author interactivity at its core," breathing animated life into otherwise static infographics. Not a programmer? No need to worry, the company promises the two-way diagrams are "easy enough for teachers, journalists, managers, [and] researchers to... create." We've seen Microsoft's XPS take a similar crack at dethroning the reigning format king, only to find itself in portable document oblivion. We'll just have to wait and see if CDF's a more noble contender. In the meantime, head on over to the source to download the free player and see for yourself the possible future of live textbooks, tables and charts.
Show full PR text
Wolfram Launches Computable Document Format (CDF): Bring Documents to Life with the Power of Computation

As everyday as a document, but as interactive as an app, the new standard dramatically broadens the author-reader communication pipeline

July 21, 2011-Wolfram Research today announced the Computable Document Format (CDF), a new standard to put interactivity at the core of everyday documents and empower readers with live content they can drive.

Traditional documents are easy to author, but are limited to content that's static or can only be played back. Interactivity is familiar in apps, but usually requires programmers to create, rarely making it cost-effective for communicating ideas. As a result, today's content lacks interactivity to engage with-dramatically limiting readers' understanding.

By contrast, CDFs are as interactive as apps, yet as everyday as documents. Central to the concept are knowledge apps, interactive diagrams, or info apps-the live successors of traditional diagrams and infographics.

"Today it's inconceivable that textbooks, financial reports, or news articles wouldn't include visuals; they're too valuable to communicating the idea," said Conrad Wolfram, Director of Strategic Development at Wolfram Research. "Tomorrow, communicating ideas without interactivity will be just as inconceivable. CDF is here to make that change." Wolfram added, "If a picture is worth a thousand words, an interactive knowledge app is worth a thousand pictures. CDF steps up the bandwidth of communication that much."

CDF is a computation-powered knowledge container. Its interactivity isn't just pre-generated, but live. And for the first time, authoring typically doesn't need professional programmers, but is easy enough for teachers, journalists, analysts, managers, or researchers to themselves create the knowledge or info apps or interactive diagrams for reports and presentations, articles, and textbooks.

"CDF documents liberate me from the confines of static depictions of models when creating interactive presentations of my hurricane insurance research for legislators and other public policymakers," said Seth J. Chandler, Professor of Law, University of Houston Law Center. "When someone asks me a question, I can change the parameters on the fly, rerun the model, and present results. It makes for a much more engaged and constructive discussion."

"After using the Briggs/Cochran Calculus ebook that uses beta CDF technology, many faculty members have told us, 'This is how calculus should be taught,'" said Bill Hoffmann, Executive Editor at Pearson. "Its interactive figures engage students and help them visualize key ideas-far beyond what can be done with chalk or white boards. A first edition, Briggs/Cochran's Calculus has exceeded our expectations and won several industry awards."

More than 20 years of Wolfram R&D have made CDF possible-including a computation-capable player and the highly automated authoring so central to CDF.

"The content author and interactivity author need to be the very same person if we are to achieve mainstream interactive documents," said Conrad Wolfram. "The Wolfram Demonstrations Project, with its 7,000+ contributions, prototyped the power of personalized interactivity authoring. Now CDF unleashes this power for a multitude of uses. The authoring is easier than ever before, but this is only the start of making authoring easy enough for everyone."

CDFs can currently be authored using Mathematica 8 and distributed for free using the Wolfram CDF Player. Additional options exist for restricted and/or monetized content distribution.

Find out more about CDF on the CDF website or watch a media briefing. If you are interested in exploring CDF for use in your publication, please contact us.

Nintendo Video app for the American 3DS appears with four videos in tow

Posted: 21 Jul 2011 09:52 PM PDT

After some will they / won't they drama, Nintendo snuck out its new Video app for the 3DS, giving owners of the handheld a little something to enjoy in 3D between gaming sessions. That said, we hope your Netflix queue is full because there are apparently only four selections available at any given time. At launch, those slots are filled with an intro video, two short films (Sunday Jog and Dinosaur Office) and a Captain America movie trailer. Users should expect a continuously updated carousel of content going forward, but for now if you're not near your glasses-free 3D machine (or don't own one at all) check out these shots provided by one of our tipsters. Otherwise check for the app in the eShop; though with only a four-pack to start, we'd suggest pacing yourself instead of diving in all at once. Check out the PR after the break.

[Thanks, Xavier]
Nintendo Video for 3DS
Show full PR text
New 3D Video Service on Nintendo 3DS Delivers One-of-a-Kind Content

Nintendo Video Service Showcases Exclusive 3D Animation and Videos from OK Go, Jason DeRulo, Foster the People, CollegeHumor and Blue Man Group

REDMOND, Wash.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nintendo 3DS™ owners now have a ticket to free, exclusive 3D video content. The new Nintendo Video™ service automatically delivers short 3D videos from the worlds of music, comedy, animation and Hollywood, and the 3D content can be watched without the need for special glasses. On July 27, OK Go will launch a new music video and will debut the 3D version exclusively on Nintendo Video.

"Nintendo 3DS is a unique platform for creativity"

"Nintendo 3DS is a unique platform for creativity," said Tony Elison, Nintendo of America's senior director and general manager of Network Business. "OK Go and all our partners are helping us make Nintendo Video a one-of-a-kind entertainment experience."

In the coming weeks, Nintendo Video will feature exclusive 3D videos from Jason DeRulo, Foster the People, CollegeHumor and the world-renowned Blue Man Group, plus extreme sports and action videos, animation from various independent studios and 3D trailers for upcoming Hollywood movies. Specific content may vary across countries in the Americas.

To access Nintendo Video, Nintendo 3DS owners need to connect to a broadband wireless Internet service and visit the Nintendo eShop, where they can download the Nintendo Video application. Once Nintendo 3DS owners download the application, the video lineup will automatically update whenever users are within range of a wireless hotspot and have their SpotPass™ feature enabled, even if the system is in Sleep Mode.

Nintendo Video is just one of the many features of Nintendo 3DS, Nintendo's newest hand-held system. Nintendo 3DS lets users experience 3D games, take 3D pictures and watch 3D videos without the need for special glasses. Nintendo 3DS offers users a completely new way to play and keeps people connected – to their friends, to their games, to their world. The Nintendo 3DS system builds on Nintendo's legacy of creating unique experiences for the masses.

Remember that Nintendo 3DS features parental controls that let adults manage the content their children can access. For more information about this and other features, visit http://www.nintendo.com/3ds.

For more information about Nintendo Video, visit http://www.nintendo.com/3ds/nintendo-video.

About Nintendo: The worldwide pioneer in the creation of interactive entertainment, Nintendo Co., Ltd., of Kyoto, Japan, manufactures and markets hardware and software for its Wii™ home console, Nintendo 3DS™ and Nintendo DS™ family of portable systems. Since 1983, when it launched the Nintendo Entertainment System™, Nintendo has sold more than 3.7 billion video games and more than 600 million hardware units globally, including the current-generation Wii, Nintendo 3DS, Nintendo DS, Nintendo DSi™ and Nintendo DSi XL™, as well as the Game Boy™, Game Boy Advance, Super NES™, Nintendo 64™ and Nintendo GameCube™ systems. It has also created industry icons that have become well-known, household names such as Mario™, Donkey Kong™, Metroid™, Zelda™ and Pokémon™. A wholly owned subsidiary, Nintendo of America Inc., based in Redmond, Wash., serves as headquarters for Nintendo's operations in the Western Hemisphere. For more information about Nintendo, please visit the company's website at http://www.nintendo.com.

Note to editors: Nintendo press materials are available at http://press.nintendo.com, a password-protected site. To obtain a login, please contact Deanna Talamantez at 213-438-8742 or dtalamantez@golinharris.com. Users can receive instant Nintendo information by subscribing to the site's RSS feed.

Libratone's AirPlay-enabled soundbars want to cozy up with your iOS wares

Posted: 21 Jul 2011 08:49 PM PDT

Libratone Lounge
Been on the prowl for an audio solution with AirPlay to compliment your iDevice or Apple TV? Bid hello to Libratone's ultra-chic Lounge and Live soundbars. Last year, the company introduced its eye-catching Beat wireless speaker system back at IFA; we were intrigued by its active drivers and carry handle, but mildly disappointed that cord-cutting required pesky proprietary adapters. Apple users will be happy to know AirPlay's been fully embraced this time, along with the signature adornment of cashmere wool. First up, the Live appears to be an Airplay-enabled Beat with 50 extra watts of RMS power (150 total), and an updated -- mini TOSlink accepting -- 3.5mm input for hooking up non AirPlay-enabled gear. Next up, the sleek Lounge unit above sports a similar external design and digital 3.5mm jack, but it's svelte in comparison for wall-mounting under a TV. Under its sheep fuzz, you'll find two 1-inch ribbon tweeters, two 4-inch ceramic drivers, and one 8-inch inverted woofer, all of which are independently amplified for a combined output of 150 RMS watts.

Poised to please audio enthusiasts, both employ DSP and Libratone's FullRoom for a "360 degree soundscape" controllable via an iOS app, while the Lounge's volume can also be handled by a TV remote. The Lounge will be available through Apple's online store this September priced at £1,099 to €,1199 (about $1,791 to $1,954), and the Live for £599 to £6,99 ($699) at Apple retail locations in the EU and US -- both in various colorways. You'll find details in the PR after the break while your next bout of Gear Acquisition Syndrome begins settling in.
Show full PR text
One is all it takes
Libratone launches all new AirPlay sound system for your living room.

Denmark, 21st July 2011: Building on its success within the field of wireless audio, Libratone introduces a high-end AirPlay sound system for the living room. Libratone Lounge combines advanced technology and Scandinavian design to enhance movie and music experiences. The Libratone Lounge is all that's needed to replace an old hi-fi system. Driven by Apple's AirPlay technology, the system allows users to stream music wirelessly from an iDevice or Mac/PC without having to settle for mediocre sound.

"Libratone makes sound systems for modern lifestyles. The AirPlay technology taps right into that principle with the freedom to have full control, without speaker cables, and we believe this is the future of sound. That's why we are one of the first to have embraced this technological leap," says Fritz Andersen, CEO of Libratone.

Additionally Libratone Lounge is designed to bring out the best in TV viewing without turning the living room into a jungle of wires. Volume can also be controlled through the TV remote.
One speaker, a full room of sound

Inside the Libratone Lounge, high-end audio components make sure that movies and music sound amazingly crisp. Five dedicated amplifiers based on technology normally only seen in far more expensive systems (up to 150W output) and a Digital Signal Processing unit provides crystal clear sound and a precise bass. However, the real gem is the patented FullRoom technology that lets the tweeters and midrange drivers disperse sound both forwards and sidewards enabling the Libratone Lounge to recreate sound like an acoustic instrument. The FullRoomtechnology reflects sound off the room's walls to provide high quality 360 degree sound, meaning that wherever the listener is in the room, they are always in the 'sweet spot'. Additionally and contrary to regular compact systems, the soundscape expands at a distance.
One app to rule them all

Libratone Lounge is a 'made-for-Apple' product. This means it connects seamlessly with an iPhone, iPad or iPod touch. By downloading the Lounge-app users, can strengthen that relationship. The app enhances the sound experience even further by allowing the sound form placement to be adjusted via the AirPlay connection. In other words, Libratone Lounge creates a soundscape that fits specifically to every living room.
Scandinavia in your living room

Just as its predecessor, the Libratone Lounge is a product of the Scandinavian design heritage. With its minimalistic lines and high quality raw materials, it can best be described as a piece of sound furniture. Available in a range of colours, the Libratone Lounge is finished in luxury cashmere wool.

"It's a myth that great sound comes from big, black boxes. It's a remnant of the '90s. The Libratone Lounge has the power to be the primary sound source in your home without taking over your living room with wires or a clumsy design," says Fritz Andersen.

Libratone Lounge is available in Apple Online Stores from September 2011, and costs from £1099 and €1199. Also available in the Libratone AirPlay family is Libratone Live - a flexible sound system that adjusts to your lifestyle.
About Libratone

Libratone creates sound systems for today. That's it.

Our approach is a three-headed beast: Wireless technology, hi-fi quality, and Scandinavian design - in one sound source.

Our goal is to bring new life to iPhones, iPads, iPods and computers worldwide and to deliver an alternative to clumsy stereo systems and the wire-havoc they wreak. All without compromising the sound experience.

Trademark acknowledgements
iTunes, AirPlay, iPod, iPhone and iPad are registered trademark of Apple Inc.
Libratone and FullRoom are registered trademarks of Libratone A/S.

Soundtrack your life
Libratone introduces versatile and powerful AirPlay sound system

Denmark, 21st July 2011: Libratone, a Copenhagen-based audio company developing innovative wireless sound solutions, today announces the launch of the Libratone Live, a versatile and powerful Airplay® sound system for iDevices and computers. With the liberation of sound having always been Libratone's mantra, the newest member of their product family offers full AirPlay support, allowing audio to flow freely, without wires or a loss of sound quality. The Libratone Live is available in Apple Stores in Europe and US from September 2011 and retails from £599, $699 and €699.

"Our philosophy is to set sound free. The AirPlay technology in the Libratone Live means you can now stream your entire music library wirelessly, directly from your iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad or computer. It's freedom at your fingertips!" says Fritz Andersen, CEO of Libratone.
One sound source, a whole lot of sound

The inclusion of AirPlay technology in the Libratone Live is supplemented by high-end audio components usually seen in much more expensive units. An output of up to 150W makes the Libratone Live a powerful sound source. The five dedicated amplifiers and advanced digital signal processing capabilities gives users precise bass and crystal clear treble. Additionally, the patented FullRoom®-technology provides the listener with a room-filling soundscape with the tweeters and midrange drivers dispersing 360 degree sound which makes the Libratone Live play like an acoustic instrument.

Due to the FullRoom technology, the Libratone Live can fill even complex rooms with high quality sound. The technology also works with the room instead of against it meaning it delivers where most other systems do not. So, whether users want instant access to a complete music library in the kitchen, office or living room, the Libratone Live is up to the task.
"Regular speakers in a stereo setup push sound forward in one direction, creating a small sweet spot in the centre of the room and leaving other areas of the room with inferior sound. Our patented FullRoom technology eliminates the sweet spot by letting the sound reflect off the walls, creating a much larger area with increased spaciousness. Contrary to regular compact systems, the soundscape actually expands at a distance. We like to think of it as having your favourite band right in your living room," says Jes Mosgaard, CTO at Libratone.
The soundtrack of your life

To further enhance the sound experience and freedom of placement, users can download an iPhone application that allows the Libratone Live to be adjusted remotely via the AirPlay connection. Based on the information users provide, it automatically calibrates the sound from the Libratone Live to fit the surroundings perfectly.

Much more than a clumsy black box which is commonplace in the market, the Libratone Live offers a contemporary design with a Scandinavian heritage. It features a satin chrome handle for easy portability, comes in several colours, including slate grey (standard), blood orange, vanilla beige, blueberry black and lime green, and is finished in luxury cashmere wool. Libratone has developed a desirable speaker that stands out and yet blends in at the same time.
Libratone Live is available in Apple Stores from September 2011 in Europe and US, and costs from £599, $699 and €699. Also available in the Libratone AirPlay family is Libratone Lounge – a true hi-fi replacement for your living room.

About Libratone

Libratone creates sound systems for today. That's it.
Our approach is a three-headed beast: Wireless technology, hi-fi quality, and Scandinavian design – in one sound source.

Our goal is to bring new life to iPhones, iPads, iPods and computers worldwide and to deliver an alternative to clumsy stereo systems and the wire-havoc they wreak. All without compromising the sound experience.

Trademark acknowledgements iTunes, AirPlay, iPod, iPhone and iPad are registered trademark of Apple Inc. Libratone and FullRoom are registered trademarks of Libratone A/S.

Laser Pitch Detection system turns your axe into a luminous, latency-free MIDI machine (video)

Posted: 21 Jul 2011 08:00 PM PDT

Laser Pitch Detection System
Here's a fact you should remember about lasers: they make everything better. Even musical instruments. Anyone who has ever tried to use their trusty six-string as a MIDI controller knows the pain of the latency introduced by trying to convert string vibrations into digital signals. M3i's Laser Pitch Detection (LPD) system skirts this issue by running a laser beam under each string. Instead of detecting vibrations the optical pickup measures the distance between the diode and the depressed string, then converts that into a pitch. That not only means there's no delay, but also that no need to actually tune your instrument -- it combines all the laziness of Antares' ATG-6 with the class of Beamz. If you're curious, there's a demo video after the break.

New Mac mini gets iFixit teardown treatment, leaves space for 2nd hard drive

Posted: 21 Jul 2011 07:18 PM PDT

What do you do the day after an arsenal of new Apple products are announced? Why, take them apart as soon as you can get your hands on them, of course! Wouldn't ya know it, iFixit is at it again -- this time, tearing down the new Mac mini. At first glance, the only noticeable difference is the inclusion of the powerful Thunderbolt port. Once under the hood, though, a second hard drive port was spotted, along with just enough space for a second storage device. Perhaps the only thing standing the way of a dual HDD welding compact desktop is your ability to secure another SATA cable. If you want to give it a shot, the updated mini scored a solid eight out of ten in the repairability category as the machine had no proprietary screws or glue. Moreover, easy access makes a DIY RAM upgrade a piece of cake, especially when you're already in there adding that extra disk. So if you're looking to get your teardown feet wet, swan dive right in.

Update: Sure, you can get dual HDDs straight from the Apple store, but you'll pay dearly for it. As in, the base Mac mini will run you $1550 -- and that's for the only option: a 750 GB ATA and a 256 GB SSD. The other option is to splurge for the Lion Server model, where dual 500 GB or dual 750 GB options are available. Still, going this route will set you back at least $1000. Since these bad boys are so easy to work on, you'd put far less strain on your wallet by going the DIY route.

Nokia N9 arrives at FCC, opened up to see where all the MeeGo comes from

Posted: 21 Jul 2011 06:20 PM PDT

Nokia N9 arrives at FCC, opened up to see where all the MeeGo comes from
That most heavenly hunk of MeeGo, the Nokia N9, has passed through our government's most holy of hallways, delivering full external and internal photos to show us what's happening at every level. If you had any doubt this will be a world phone, tests confirming quadband 2G and pentaband 3G (2100/1900/1700/900/850 MHz) should put those to rest, while 802.11a/b/g/n WiFi spread over 2.4 and 5GHz means it'll be quick to download the goods around the house. Models with 16 and 64GB are shown, though squint all we could we couldn't count the difference on the teardown pics, which you can enjoy for yourself in the gallery below.

Look closely on the internal photos and you'll note the petite SIM tray and a 1,450mAh battery that relies on a wired connector. It is, quite clearly, not meant for easy user accessibility. Appetite still not sated? The full user manual is also there, ready for your download. And just think, a few minutes ago you didn't have any good reading material for this weekend.
Nokia N9 at FCC

Fluorescent nanosensor tattoo monitors glucose under the iPhone's glare

Posted: 21 Jul 2011 06:03 PM PDT

Unless you're a True Blood diehard, the idea of bleeding yourself intentionally shouldn't really seem all that appealing. So imagine how most diabetics feel when they're forced to prick their fingers seven times a day in the name of health. Well, soon they might not have to thanks to a nanosensor tattoo and... an iPhone? Developed by Prof. Heather Clark and her Northeastern University team, this injection of subdermal nanoparticles combines "fluorescent dye, specialized sensor molecules...and a charge-neutralizing molecule" that attach to glucose, releasing ions and altering the tat's glow in the process. The researchers had originally designed a "large boxlike" tattoo-reading device, but an apparent Apple fanboy on the team modded an iPhone case with LEDs and a filter lens to make the whole affair a bit more stylish. Next up for the team is, you guessed it, an app for that -- although this one'll focus on sodium.

Apple tops Android in enterprise; little green robot still gunning for corner office

Posted: 21 Jul 2011 05:01 PM PDT

BlackBerry used to rule the boardroom, but over the past few years we've seen a steady uptick in the number of enterprise users switching to their OS of choice. So who's going to be the successor to the BlackBerry throne? Well, according to Good's latest report, Apple devices have fast become the preferred companions for its customers, and it looks like the iPad's leading the way. The enterprise provider shows that in Q2 2011, users activated more iPads than Android smartphones and tablets combined. What's more, iPads made up 95 percent of tablet activations, with Android tablets taking in only 3.1 percent. Smartphone adoption was a slight bit more balanced, but Apple still came out on top with 66 percent over Android's 33 percent. That's all well and good, but what we really want to know is who's got the stuff to win the three-legged race at the company picnic? For those of you visual learners, a representative bar graph of Good's results awaits you after the break.

Nokia's N5 makes Symbian-powered procession through the FCC

Posted: 21 Jul 2011 04:03 PM PDT

Nokia N5
There's something bittersweet about watching a Symbian phone march through the FCC knowing that Nokia is slowly thinning the herd. This particular model, the N5, made its requisite Mr. Blurrycam debut last month and now we've got some details about what the glossy white exterior is hiding. You'll find Bluetooth and WiFi radios inside, which isn't surprising, as well as NFC for all the contactless purchasing your Finland-loving heart can handle. On the mobile broadband side of things, there's support for the 850MHz, 1700MHz, and 1900MHz bands, which means it'll work with either T-Mobile or AT&T. Besides price and release date, the big question on our minds is whether or not anyone will buy a Symbian phone knowing the platform is destined for extinction?

iFixit tears down new MacBook Air, beholds the miracle of backlighting

Posted: 21 Jul 2011 03:36 PM PDT

Warranties be damned, iFixit got its hands on the newly announced MacBook Air and immediately did its thing, digging into the super-thin laptop like a kid at Christmas. Not all that much to see from the outside of the device, save for that new Thunderbolt port and some shiny new keyboard backlighting. Things are a bit different inside, however, including an Intel Core i5 processor, a Bluetooth 4.0 chip, and a general lack of thermal paste. As for putting the thing back together again -- the Air scores a four out of ten for repairability, so maybe don't try this at home.

AMD earnings continue to drop despite record CPU sales, GPU business loses $7 million

Posted: 21 Jul 2011 03:02 PM PDT

AMD Earnings
Poor AMD. While Chipzilla just keeps shattering its own earnings records, the little company that could from Sunnyvale is struggling to chug its way uphill. Its total revenue of $1.57 billion represents a two-percent drop from the last quarter and five percent from the same time last year. Total profits fell from half a billion in Q1 to just $61 million. News was particularly bad at the graphics division which saw revenues plummet 11 percent from Q1. In total, the former ATI brand lost $7 million. It's not all bad news, though -- the company did ship a record number of mobile CPUs, won some awards, and increased its presence on the top 500 super computer list by 15 percent. That's gotta count for something right?

[Thanks, Matt]

Nintendo Video's 3DS app plays coy, is / is not launching in the US today

Posted: 21 Jul 2011 02:47 PM PDT

Is Nintendo Video launching in the US, or is it just coming soon? Someone over at the house that Mario built needs to make up their mind -- Reggie knuckle sandwich, anyone? The application was quietly announced this morning via Nintendo Download, then listed as a non-downloadable item on the eShop and featured on the company's official site with a release dated today. So, where is it then? Your guess is as good as ours. When it finally hits your parallax display, expect this 3DS only app to update weekly with fresh content, promising limited-time only 2D and 3D comedy, action and adventure shorts. Head to the eShop right now, and you'll be treated to a music-backed, text-only tease of the service and a College Humour video, apparently. If a curated experience from the makers of the Wii U fits your bill, then go right ahead and set that Spotpass to download.

J.K. Rowling, Google to bring Pottermania to your e-reader

Posted: 21 Jul 2011 02:13 PM PDT

Having a hard time parting ways with a certain plucky, lightning-scarred orphan? J.K. Rowling feels your pain (as she counts her money) and has teamed up with Google to help you fall in love with the world of Hogwarts all over again -- e-book style. The voluminous tomes will be making their exclusive electronic debut through Google's eBooks platform as part of the Sony-backed Pottermore site launching this October. El Goog's open format plays nicely with "more than 80 ereaders" -- we're looking at you iRiver Story HD -- and can also be downloaded in app form for iOS and Android smartphones. But the integration doesn't end there -- under terms of the agreement, Google Checkout "will be the preferred third party payment platform" for all the site's Harry Potter knick knacks your credit limit will allow. It's ok, you don't have to let go of the dream just yet. There's still a little wizard inside us all.

BlackBerry PlayBook receives certification for US government use

Posted: 21 Jul 2011 01:48 PM PDT

The BlackBerry PlayBook may not have exactly won over consumers en masse, but it looks like RIM can now at least put a feather in its cap when it comes to one of its key customer bases: government agencies. The company announced today that the PlayBook is the first tablet to receive the so-called FIPS 140-2 certification which, according to RIM, means that the US federal government can "buy with confidence knowing that the PlayBook meets their computing policy requirements for protecting sensitive information." Of course, those agencies will still need to make sure to supply a BlackBerry smartphone as well so folks can access some of that information -- although this may be one instance where that's considered to be more of a feature than an omission.

Apple: One million Lion downloads in first day

Posted: 21 Jul 2011 01:31 PM PDT

Lion
You told us a lot of you had already downloaded Lion, but now Apple's gone ahead and put any doubts about this $29.99 update's popularity to rest. A cool one million downloads of Lion have been registered in the first day of availability. That's faster than any other OS release in the company's history, which lends perhaps a bit more weight to Apple's "best OS we've ever made" claim. Still on the fence yourself? Maybe our Lion review will push you one way or t'other.

Show full PR text
Lion Downloads Top One Million in First Day

CUPERTINO, California-July 21, 2011-Apple® today announced that in just one day, over one million users bought and downloaded Mac OS® X Lion, the eighth major release of the world's most advanced operating system. Available through the Mac® App Store™ for $29.99 (US), users are buying Lion faster than any other OS release in Apple's history.

"Lion is off to a great start, user reviews and industry reaction have been fantastic," said Philip Schiller, Apple's senior vice president of Worldwide Product Marketing. "Lion is a huge step forward, it's not only packed with innovative features but it's incredibly easy for users to update their Macs to the best OS we've ever made."

Lion introduces more than 250 new features to the Mac, including Multi-Touch® gestures; system-wide support for full screen apps; Mission Control, an innovative view of everything running on your Mac; the Mac App Store, the best place to find and explore great software; Launchpad, a new home for all your apps; and a completely redesigned Mail app.

Available in 123 countries, the Mac App Store brings the revolutionary App Store experience to the Mac so you can find great new apps, buy them using your iTunes® account, download and install them in just one step. The Mac App Store offers apps in Education, Games, Graphics & Design, Lifestyle, Productivity, Utilities and other categories. Users can browse new and noteworthy apps, find out what's hot, see staff favorites, search categories and look up top charts for paid and free apps, as well as user ratings and reviews. The Mac App Store is built right into Lion and available for Snow Leopard® users through Software Update as part of Mac OS X version 10.6.8.

Apple designs Macs, the best personal computers in the world, along with OS X, iLife, iWork and professional software. Apple leads the digital music revolution with its iPods and iTunes online store. Apple has reinvented the mobile phone with its revolutionary iPhone and App Store, and has recently introduced iPad 2 which is defining the future of mobile media and computing devices.

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

Posted: 21 Jul 2011 01:30 PM PDT

Things are a little more manageable this week, after last week's Partycast. This time out, Tim and Brian are joined once again by Dana Wollman, who will recount her McDonald's drive-thru experiences from the past seven days. Or maybe we'll talk about some Apple stuff. Who knows?

Microsoft Q4 FY11: revenue, earnings, and profits all up, beating expectations

Posted: 21 Jul 2011 01:20 PM PDT

Microsoft Q4 FY11: revenue, earnings, and profits all up, beating expectations
The news wasn't so good for Nokia this morning, but its new bedmate is in much, much better shape. Microsoft's Q4 earnings for the 2011 fiscal year have been posted, showing revenue of $17.37 billion -- up eight percent over the same period last year, and besting the $16.43 billion record Q3. That drove $5.87 billion in net income, which is a whopping 30 percent climb over the year previous. Looking back over the full year, revenue broke another record, clocking in at $69.94 billion, 12 percent higher than the year before.

Why all the good news? Well, the Entertainment & Devices Division saw a 30 percent revenue jump in the quarter, 45 percent over the year, as the Xbox 360 and Kinect continue to sell like gangbusters. Bing and Online Services also had good news, 17 percent revenue growth in the quarter thanks to the plucky search engine gaining ever more ground against the competition. But, not everything is rosy, with the Windows-related revenue staying flat -- down one percent this quarter, two percent over the year. Windows 8 will surely turn things around on that front, though, right?

2degrees users overloaded with random late-night texts -- the alcohol apparently not to blame

Posted: 21 Jul 2011 01:02 PM PDT

When we send out an embarrassing text message at 2am, at least we can -- in the words of Jaime Foxx -- blame it on the a-a-a-a-a-alcohol. Unfortunately for New Zealand mobile carrier 2degrees, pinning it on the Henney, just ain't gonna cut it this time. Early Wednesday morning, a few unlucky users were greeted by an influx of hundreds of unsolicited text messages. A few of those affected took to the company's Facebook page for answers, and were provided with the following response:

Early this morning, a software implementation problem caused a small number of people to receive texts not intended for them. Our network team quickly identified the problem and resolved it by 2:30am. We apologize to our customers for any inconvenience this may have caused.

On second thought, judging from the reactions that apology received, the outfit might have been better off using the Blue Top as a scapegoat.

T-Mobile makes HTC Wildfire S official, available August 3rd for $80

Posted: 21 Jul 2011 12:38 PM PDT

True to earlier reports, the HTC Wildfire S finally has a home at T-Mobile. The carrier-phone relationship was formalized today as the magenta-colored mobile provider announced its availability on August 3rd. The device -- code-named Marvel -- will be $80 with two-year commitment and after $50 mail-in rebate. It has all the amenities we expected, including Android 2.3 (Gingerbread), a 3.2-inch HVGA display, 512MB RAM, a Qualcomm MSM7227 600MHz CPU, and a 5 megapixel shooter. You'll be able to get the phone in white or black; the only other differences in the new version appear to be the Swype keyboard and the inclusion of AWS bands. If you desire a handset that'll ease the pain on the thin wallet in your pocket, you have only a week to wait.
Show full PR text
Today, T-Mobile announces the upcoming availability of the new HTC Wildfire S - a stylish and compact Android-powered handset built with simplicity in mind. The HTC Wildfire S, expected to become available on August 3 for $79.99 after a $50 mail-in-rebate with a two-year service agreement and qualifying Classic voice and data plan (plus taxes and fees), comes equipped with the user-friendly HTC Sense experience combined with Android 2.3 (Gingerbread) operating system.

Packaged in a stylish form-factor, including a 3.2-inch capacitive touch screen display, the HTC Wildfire S is perfect for browsing the Web, accessing turn-by-turn navigation, sending and receiving emails, and keeping up with family and friends via Facebook and Twitter. The new low-cost smartphone also offers essential smartphone features such as a 5-megapixel camera and video recorder and a virtual QWERTY keyboard with Swype for easy text input.

The HTC Wildfire S will be available in a white color finish at T-Mobile retails stores nationwide and online at http://www.t-mobile.com. The HTC Wildfire S will also be available in a black color finish exclusively at Walmart, Sam's Club and http://www.t-mobile.com.

KDDI's Mi-Look watches your elderly parents, treats them like prisoners (video)

Posted: 21 Jul 2011 12:14 PM PDT

KDDI's looking out for Japan's elderly, or putting them under house arrest -- it's hard to tell which. Hitting stores this September in the land of human-assistive tech, the Kyocera designed Mi-Look is a simplified GPS-capable, mobile-monitoring system that puts you in control of your Luddite parents. The waterproof device packs a strap-activated "I've fallen and I can't get up" buzzer and comes in an appealing shade of hospital white, all while keeping track of your folk's whereabouts. Seems innocent enough, right? Well, it's not really up to Ma and Pa to opt-out of location tracking -- the phone does it automatically, emailing a list of relatives with coordinates and distance traveled. And for that extra special Lindsay Lohan-lockdown touch, the charging port's sensor will not only count the number of times your rents pass by, it'll also answer calls automagically. Starting to feel a little bad about this? We don't blame you, but keep in mind the compassionate tech's being targeted to patients with memory loss issues. Still, we have a suspicion those with claims of a "stolen childhood" might be using this as revenge. Payback's a cellphone, apparently. Video demonstration after the break.

at 12:07 PM

No comments:

Post a Comment

Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)

My Blog List