Sponsored
Engadget News |
- Momentum and Elevate 4G on sale now, pushes AT&T to closer to the LTE era
- Engadget Mobile Podcast 100 - 08.21.2011
- Editorial: tablets aren't the 'third device' I'd hoped for... from a productivity standpoint, anyway
- Griffin's Helo TC cleared for takeoff, we attempt to get airborne in a hands-on (video)
- All Things D: HP kept executives in the dark about webOS decision
- Quantum entanglement could mean completely secure data transfer
- RIM to unleash redesigned BlackBerry App World 3.0 on August 22nd
- Confirmed: Best Buy US begins selling TouchPads after all, good luck finding one
- Three announces UK's first 21Mbps HSDPA+ hotspot for September arrival
- Sony's NEX-7 exposed (again), spec list in tow
- Ask Engadget: best wireless keyboard for tablet use?
- Verizon strike to come to an end August 23rd
- HP TouchPad fire sale spurs online sell out, brick-and-mortars may still carry stock (updated)
- Optoma delivers three new projectors, one does 3D for just $1,499
- BlackBerry Music to serve up 50 songs for $5 a month?
- Fujitsu IS12T Mango phone ready to launch August 25th, already accepting preorders?
| Momentum and Elevate 4G on sale now, pushes AT&T to closer to the LTE era Posted: 21 Aug 2011 11:06 AM PDT  |
| Engadget Mobile Podcast 100 - 08.21.2011 Posted: 21 Aug 2011 10:10 AM PDT  Hosts: Myriam Joire (tnkgrl), Brad Molen Guests: Richard Lai, Noah Kravitz Producer: Trent Wolbe Music: Daestro - Light Powered (Ghostly International) 00:02:45 - HP will 'discontinue operations for webOS devices', may spin off Personal Systems Group 00:21:55 - Google acquiring Motorola Mobility 00:42:45 - Motorola's new Droid HD makes cameo alongside Droid Bionic 01:04:30 - BlackBerry Bold 9930 review 01:05:43 - AT&T streamlining individual messaging plans August 21st, leaving unlimited as the sole survivor 01:15:00 - Xiaomi Phone hands-on (updated with video) 01:25:40 - Symbian Anna now available for download on Nokia N8, E7, C7 and C6-01 01:26:30 - Symbian Belle download leaked to N8 community, quickly pulled from site (update: Anna available on NaviFirm) 01:30:57 - CNET: RIM in talks to squeeze out BlackBerry music service 01:32:50 - Motorola Photon 4G review 01:36:53 - Samsung Hercules, HTC Ruby available from T-Mobile on October 26th? 01:38:56 - Samsung Hercules gets its Telus on in leaked glamour shots 01:39:38 - HTC Holiday prototype shows up on Craigslist, gives us reason to celebrate (update: AT&T-bound) 01:45:55 - Why is LTE equipment being installed in an Apple Store? Hear the podcast Subscribe to the podcast [iTunes] Subscribe to the Podcast directly in iTunes [RSS MP3] Add the Engadget Mobile Podcast feed (in MP3) to your RSS aggregator and have the show delivered automatically [RSS AAC] Add the Engadget Mobile Podcast feed (in enhanced AAC) to your RSS aggregator [Zune] Subscribe to the Podcast directly in the Zune Marketplace Download the podcast LISTEN (MP3) LISTEN (AAC) Contact the podcast podcast (at) engadgetmobile (dot) com. Follow us on Twitter @tnkgrl @phonewisdom @engadgetmobile This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| Editorial: tablets aren't the 'third device' I'd hoped for... from a productivity standpoint, anyway Posted: 21 Aug 2011 09:06 AM PDT  After years of watching the masses fawn over the iPad (and every other PC maker scramble to come out with something that serves a similar purpose), I still can't ever imagine myself investing in one, let alone actually using one in place of a smartphone or laptop. I've met quite a few folks in my line of work that all ask me the same thing: "Should I buy an iPad?" It's worth noting that no one actually asks if "they should buy a tablet," but that's speaking more about Apple's absurdly enviable mind (and in turn, market) share than anything else. My response is always the same: "If you can't think of a reason you'd need it, you don't need it." Tablets, for whatever reason, seem to defy logic when it comes to purchase rationalization in the consumer electronics realm. I've yet to meet a bloke who purchased an ultraportable without knowing full-well that they would take advantage of enhanced battery life and a highly mobile chassis. Everyone I've know that invested in a high-end gaming rig knew why they were shelling out on that $500 GPU (read: frames-per-second). And all of my movie cuttin' pals knew precisely why they just had to have a Thunderbolt RAID setup. But tablets? People are just buying these things in a fit of hysteria -- does anyone actually know why this "third device" is such a necessity? Let's dive a little deeper, shall we? The obvious answers (and the not-so-obvious question)Look, I'm not disputing that tablets serve a purpose. I would've leaped for ever-loving joy if my middle school classes were delivered on one, and my photographing wife uses hers to show example poses to nervous brides and grooms who want to look good in their wedding album. But when it comes to using one as a tool for myself -- a device which should make me more productive -- slates have failed to provide me with a compelling reason to drop $500+ on yet another computing instrument. And here's why. With qHD displays becoming the norm, most modern smartphones can nearly match even the highest-resolution tablet display. Pixel-for-pixel, I can see almost as much information in the palm of my hand as I can with an unwieldy screen that requires two hands to use with any precision whatsoever. And then, there's typing. Let's say I'm in class, or at a conference, or in a boardroom meeting, and I'm attempting to jot a few notes down for later. If needed, I can peck away with a shocking amount of accuracy using SwiftKey's magical prediction keyboard on insert-your-Android-phone-here... with one hand. Is it really worth the pocketbook hit to bring something else in there to do the same thing? If you're asking what the big deal is with using both of your arms to operate a handheld computing apparatus, you're asking the wrong question. What you should be asking is this: "Why did I just spend $500 on a device that's just marginally easier to get work done on than the smartphone I already own, while being entirely more limiting than even a netbook from an OS standpoint?" If anything, it's just a testament to how immensely useful, longevous and mobile the modern day laptop truly is. Look, tablets are weird to useC'mon, admit it. Slates are silly to hold and silly to operate. Ever tried taking a photo with a tablet? You're guaranteed to get perfect facial expressions for tomorrow's highlight image on Awkward Family Photos, but that's about it. Without a case, it's even awkward to type on a tablet. You're usually left with two options: propping it up against your leg, or laying it flat on a table and forcing yourself to hover directly over it, neither of which strike me as "natural." You might say that using one is no less strange than pecking away on a laptop, but if I have to sit down with it I might as well use something with a keyboard. I also can't seem to grok the value in spending half a grand on something with a souped-up mobile OS. Marketers have stated from the start that a tablet is a "third device" -- something that's worth owning even if you already posses a smartphone and a laptop. I'm guessing it's because they know tablets aren't capable of replacing either. It's too big to fit into any pair of pants I own (MC Hammer digs from Halloween 2008 notwithstanding), and it's downright frustrating to use as a netbook replacement.  The "third device" requirement is manufacturedApple, and everyone else trying their best to hawk tablets, would have you believe that there's a huge hole in your technophile lifestyle that can only be filled by hauling around yet another contraption. I beg to differ. For consumers who don't consider themselves power users, you might be able to get away with using a tablet in place of a laptop. If that's you, fantastic. You just figured out a way to stick with only two devices, and you made the second one a good bit more compact. But if use things like Photoshop and Windows Movie Maker (real esoteric stuff, I tell ya), or you like to actually add attachments to your email from a file system, you'll probably find yourself in a place like myself: wondering what the heck the fuss is all about. I'm not disputing the fact that the iPad is a runaway hit; Apple has sold millions, and it'll continue to dominate this landscape for the foreseeable future. It's shareholders are obviously thrilled with the demand. But here's a genuine question: how many of you actually use your tablet (of any brand) for productivity tasks as much as you thought you would when you lined up around the block to buy it? And after you invest a couple hundred in accessories to make it halfway useful, aren't you better off (financially and otherwise) with a bona fide laptop? For me, that answer is "yes." |
| Griffin's Helo TC cleared for takeoff, we attempt to get airborne in a hands-on (video) Posted: 21 Aug 2011 06:46 AM PDT   Setup was simple as the Helo comes pretty much ready to fly. After a quick 20 minute charge with our laptop, loading four AAAs for the Flight Deck and downloading the app, we were cleared to go. The Deck attached to our iPhone 3GS and iPad 2 without a problem, but it's fairly clunky and clearly intended for use with a phone in landscape mode. It works by plugging into your device's audio jack and translating any in-app movements into control signals for the copter. The app is fairly straightforward: for basic control you get a throttle slider, joystick with trim, an auto-land button and a toggle switch for the mini chopper's LEDs. There's also Flight Plans for advanced pilots, which lets you record maneuvers for 20 seconds -- although, we weren't able to fly it long enough to try. Digging through its settings menu you'll find flying tips, a joystick / motion control toggle, three transmission channels, pitch inversion, and on-screen throttle placement.  With that said, lets talk about manning the AppPowered's controls and flying the thing. We usually got around 10 minutes of flight time per charge, which resulted in short bursts of fun and lengthy bouts with frustration from mid-air mishaps. It took us two flight-cycles to stay airborne for more than a few seconds without needing to use the auto-land feature, hitting the office ceiling, or grazing someone's hair -- furthermore, the iPad version of the app just plain didn't work. With a bit of practice using our iPhone we managed longer flights, but getting the Helo to go forward and backward or rotate precisely remained extremely difficult due to control communication lag. Because the copter can zip to the ceiling in no time, unless yours are of the vaulted variety, it seems ill suited for indoor operation. Taking it outside gave us an easier time -- even at night, thanks to its lights -- but once it was hovering smoothly at powerline height the signal usually began cutting out.  After numerous crashes caused plenty of battle scars, we were surprised to see how well the blades and the TC itself held up, but in the end it proved to be no match for concrete. Eventually we lost total control of its trim, which caused it to permanently veer left and soon after our unit was in two pieces. Did your friendly Engadget staff have an occasional blast during our day with the Helo TC? You betcha. When it comes down to it though, the iOS angle feels rather gimmicky and you're probably better off just going with a cheap ol' RC version. Sometimes you just can't beat the classics, but if you're into this sorta thing it's now available from Griffin. Griffin Launches HELO TC™ Helicopter, Remote-Controlled by iPhone, iPod touch or iPad. Griffin predicts HELO TC will be the high-flying hit of this holiday season Nashville, TN – August 17, 2011 – Griffin Technology, one of the world's foremost creators of innovations for everyday life, launched its newest AppPowered accessory: HELO TC, a remote-controlled helicopter. The HELO TC app transforms the Multi-Touch display of any iOS device into a remote control for HELO TC. HELO TC is a twin-rotored, indoor helicopter built on a lightweight metal frame with a black polycarbonate body. It comes with a Flight Deck infrared module, which plugs into an iOS device to transmit control signals to the helicopter. Two modes of flight are available: Touch Control, using the Multi-Touch display to control HELO TC's throttle and joystick; and Tilt to Steer mode, which uses the iOS device's accelerometers: tilting the iOS device moves the helicopter forward, back and side to side. The app can record and store up to three Flight Plans so you, or another pilot, can repeat a favorite flight pattern easily. "HELO TC reflects Griffin's passion for creating captivating products that keep consumers engaged and entertained," said Mark Rowan, President of Griffin Technology. "We're confident it will be one of our most popular items this holiday season." HELO TC's built-in battery recharges from any USB power source, including your computer's USB port. The Flight Deck module, powered by 4 AAA batteries, plugs into the iOS device's headphone jack. HELO TC, $49.99, is currently available at www.griffintechnology.com and will be at retailers nationwide for the holiday season. To learn more visit www.griffintechnology.com/helotc and watch the teaser video of the HELO TC in action. The HELO TC app can be downloaded for free from the App Store at itunes.apple.com/us/app/helo-tc/id435802394?mt=8. For additional information about Griffin products, visit www.griffintechnology.com. About Griffin Technology Founded on Paul Griffin's kitchen table in 1992, Griffin Technology Inc., is today one of the world's foremost creators of accessories for home, mobile, and personal technology. Unique products such as iTrip®, PowerMate®, iFM®, iMic® and Evolve® Wireless Speaker System have broken new ground in consumer electronics and created loyal fans the world over. Today, Griffin products are conceived, designed and developed in-house and continue to push the envelope of the industry they helped create. Learn more about Griffin's entire range of ingenious designs at www.griffintechnology.com, facebook.com/griffintech and twitter.com/griffintech. |
| All Things D: HP kept executives in the dark about webOS decision Posted: 21 Aug 2011 04:38 AM PDT  If you thought the saga surrounding HP's decision to cease production of webOS devices was over, you may be mistaken. All Things D reported yesterday that key executives -- specifically Todd Bradley of the currently-in-limbo Personal Systems Group and former Palm CEO Jon Rubinstein -- weren't informed of the move until Sunday night. The blog's inside sources say the two plan to remain at their posts for the time being, however, that could change dependent on what happens next with webOS. Those sources also noted that Rubinstein wasn't exactly thrilled about the timing of the TouchPad's release, saying CEO Leo Apotheker had failed to make good on a public promise to ship the tablet only when it was "perfect." So will they stay or will they go? It's anyone's guess at this point, but you can bet we'll keep you posted. |
| Quantum entanglement could mean completely secure data transfer Posted: 21 Aug 2011 02:28 AM PDT  By tapping into Albert Einstein's idea of "spooky action at a distance," researchers at the University of Copenhagen's Niels Bohr Institute have discovered what might be the key to completely secure data transfer -- keeping particles "entangled" for up to an hour. Until now, the link between two entangled systems could only be maintained for a fraction of a second. This development could enable a direct link between two systems of communication -- you do something to one and the other will "know." Although limited to the lab right now, scientists are working on practical applications for networking and the internets. Hey, SSH maybe it's time you started watching your back. Check out the full PR after the break. [Thanks Nan] 2011-08-17 Quantum optical link sets new time records Quantum communication could be an option for the absolutely secure transfer of data. The key component in quantum communication over long distances is the special phenomenon called entanglement between two atomic systems. Entanglement between two atomic systems is very fragile and up until now researchers have only been able to maintain the entanglement for a fraction of a second. But in new experiments at the Niels Bohr Institute researchers have succeeded in setting new records and maintaining the entanglement for up to an hour. The results are published in the scientific journal Physical Review Letters. Entanglement is a curious phenomenon in quantum mechanics which Albert Einstein called "spukhafte Fernwirkung" (spooky action at a distance). Two separate entangled systems have a ghostlike connection even when they are placed at a large distance without being directly connected to each other. It is said that their states are correlated. This means that if you read out the one system, the other system will 'know' about it. In the experiments at the Niels Bohr Institute, the spins of two gas clouds of caesium atoms are entangled. The image shows the two clouds of caesium atoms. The atoms have been entangled using laser light. The atoms spontaneously emit photons in all directions. By designing the experiment in a very precise way the NBI team succeeded in maintaining the entanglement for up to an hour. (Credit: Christine Muschik) Control of a spontaneous process To create the entangled state of the two atomic clouds the researchers use light. Light consists of photons, which are the smallest parts (a quantum) of a light pulse. When you shine a laser beam on atoms the photons are absorbed and subsequently re-emitted spontaneously. This process has been an impediment to the experiments because it is uncontrolled. "Now we have managed to control this 'spontaneous' process and use it", explains Eugene Polzik, Professor and Director of the Danish National Research Foundation Center, Quantop at the Niels Bohr Institute at the University of Copenhagen. Maintaining entanglement In the Quantop laboratories the research group conducted experiments with entanglement using two clouds of caesium atoms placed in separate glass containers. By illuminating both clouds of atoms with laser light, the collective spins of the atoms are manipulated. The two atomic clouds become entangled, which means that some of their properties are correlated. But the atoms emit photons in all directions and this causes the entanglement to disappear. This usually happens in a fraction of a second. "What we have done is that we have developed a technique where we renew the entanglement as fast as it disappears. In this way we have been able to maintain the entanglement between the two atomic clouds as long as the experiment lasted, that is to say up to an hour", explains Hanna Krauter, who is a quantum physicist and researcher at Quantop at the Niels Bohr Institute. From theory to reality The research has been conducted in collaboration with the Max Planck Institute of Quantum Optics in Germany, where they have been working with the theoretical models. Theoretical physicists have suggested similar techniques for about five years, but it is only now that the NBI team has succeeded in conducting the physical experiments based on these methods and getting them to work. "The breakthrough has great potential and provides, among other things, a new approach to quantum communication. It is a step towards getting quantum communication to function in practice – not just in the laboratory, but also in the real world of networking á la the Internet. In addition, it means an improvement of ultra-precise measurements of miniscule magnetic fields with atomic magnetometers. Sensitive magnetometers could be used to measure electrical activity in the human brain and heart", explains Professor Eugene Polzik. |
| RIM to unleash redesigned BlackBerry App World 3.0 on August 22nd Posted: 20 Aug 2011 11:54 PM PDT  |
| Confirmed: Best Buy US begins selling TouchPads after all, good luck finding one Posted: 20 Aug 2011 10:58 PM PDT  [Thanks to everyone who sent this in] |
| Three announces UK's first 21Mbps HSDPA+ hotspot for September arrival Posted: 20 Aug 2011 09:43 PM PDT  New MiFi – coming soon to Three. 17/08/2011 09:00 Today Three announces a new, high speed Mobile Wi -Fi device – the Huawei E586 MiFi - which will be the first mobile Wi -Fi device in the UK to feature next generation HSPA+ mobile broadband technology. The new MiFi will allow customers to experience significant speed gains compared to the existing award-winning MiFi. Initially around 40% faster, those figures will increase even further as Three ramps up its upgrade programme and rolls out the HSPA+ 21.1Mbps standard across its high-speed 3G network.* The features and functionality Three's customers have come to know and love from the Three MiFi are still there. Fast, secure Wi -Fi for iPads, laptops or handheld games consoles at the touch of a button. An OLED screen displaying key information like the amount of data used, speed of the current connection and length of browsing time, and a new look dashboard for viewing SMS and changing settings. In addition a new feature allows users to see their Wi -Fi user name and password on screen at the touch of a button for fast pairing with new gadgets. David Kerrigan, head of mobile broadband at Three commented: "As the UK's biggest 3G mobile broadband network, we're delighted to introduce our high speed mobile Wi -Fi product. This joins our award winning HSPA+ dongles making us the only operator offering an entirely next generation HSPA+ enabled range of mobile broadband products. Aside from this step up in speed, the new cradle charger, which looks great, will help people get the best performance in the home." The new MiFi, built by Huawei, will be available in store and online from September. Key features: - Charging cradle - 21.1 Mbps technical standard Download (HSDPA ) - 5.76 Mbps technical standard Uplink (HSUPA) - Internal Memory slot for micro SD card that supports up to 32GB - Approximately 4.5 hours battery life * Three is aiming to have 80% of its network upgraded to HSPA+ by the end of this year, with the rest following soon afterward |
| Sony's NEX-7 exposed (again), spec list in tow Posted: 20 Aug 2011 08:59 PM PDT  |
| Ask Engadget: best wireless keyboard for tablet use? Posted: 20 Aug 2011 07:19 PM PDT  We've definitely tested our fair share of tablet-focused keyboards, but none of 'em have actually struck us as ideal. The newly-released Lenovo Folio case is a gem, but alas, only functions with the ThinkPad Tablet. So, bright minds -- any ideas for Pete and his pal? Drop 'em in comments below. |
| Verizon strike to come to an end August 23rd Posted: 20 Aug 2011 06:03 PM PDT  CWA, IBEW Reach Agreement on Bargaining with Verizon; Members to Return to Work Tuesday, August 23 WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Following is a statement by the Communications Workers of America and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers: Members of CWA and IBEW at Verizon Communications will return to work on Tuesday, Aug. 23, at which time the contract will be back in force for an indefinite period. We have reached agreement with Verizon on how bargaining will proceed and how it will be restructured. The major issues remain to be discussed, but overall, issues now are focused and narrowed. We appreciate the unity of our members and the support of so many in the greater community. Now we will focus on bargaining fairly and moving forward. CWA and IBEW represent 45,000 workers at Verizon covered by this contract from Virginia to New England. |
| HP TouchPad fire sale spurs online sell out, brick-and-mortars may still carry stock (updated) Posted: 20 Aug 2011 05:26 PM PDT  Update: We've been hearing reports that select Best Buy outlets have begun selling their remaining inventory as of this afternoon. Also, it appears RadioShack plans to get in on the discounted fun, as leaked internal memos indicate an impending price cut. If you haven't had any luck snagging one of HP's also-ran tabs, now's your chance. |
| Optoma delivers three new projectors, one does 3D for just $1,499 Posted: 20 Aug 2011 05:04 PM PDT    OPTOMA BREAKS PRICE & PERFORMANCE BARRIERS AGAIN WITH ALL-NEW FULL 1080p 3D HOME THEATER PROJECTOR HD33 Packs New, Proprietary Technologies and Features; Will Hit the Streets at $1,499 FREMONT, Calif. | August 16, 2011 | Bringing Hi-Def 3D projection to its most affordable price point ever, Optoma, the best-selling DLP projector brand in the Americas, has introduced the HD33, the first full 1080p 3D projector available for less than $1,500. Incorporating several new proprietary technologies and design features, the HD33, with an end-user price of $1,499, is available now through leading brick & mortar and online retailers. Attention Editors: Links to hi-res images are at the end of the release "3D is best done big, and you can't beat projection for big screen cinema," said Jon Grodem, Optoma's senior director of product and marketing, "The HD33 makes 3D available to millions more consumers than ever before, and is a great example of why Optoma has earned a reputation for delivering industry-leading innovation and outstanding quality." According to Grodem, the 1800 ANSI lumen HD33 offers more than just full compatibility with all 2D and 3D standards. It incorporates several new proprietary technologies that deliver a truly dynamic cinematic experience. Optoma's new PureMotion3D frame interpolation processing reduces judder to create smoother video sequences in both 2D and 3D content. PureDepth, a brand-new technology developed by the company, optimizes the projector's brightness and image configuration, ensuring stunning image quality, again in both 2D and 3D. And a new color processing system provides improved color accuracy, contrast, black levels and shadow details in image sizes ranging from 35 inches to more than 300 inches. The HD33 has also been developed in parallel with the company's new 3D-RF glasses, which use RF (radio frequency) technology and have been specifically designed to maximize brightness & contrast while eliminating the line of sight and synchronization issues commonly experienced with systems using infra-red (IR) emitters. The new glasses are fully rechargeable; the emitter is included with the projector, while the glasses will be sold separately. The HD33 supports all the HDMI 1.4a mandatory 3D formats, including both Side-by-Side and Top & Bottom formats, and more. To further enhance 3D compatibility, Side-by-Side and Top & Bottom formats can be manually enabled to allow other non-HDMI 1.4a compatible devices, such as older set top boxes, Xbox360, or PCs, to display 3D via the VGA or HDMI ports. Accordingly, the HD33 offers two HDMI 1.4a ports, one VGA port, as well as connections for component video, composite video, RS-232, a +12V trigger, and a VESA 3D Port. 3D content can be viewed with RF glasses or DLP Link-based 3D active shutter glasses when used with a 3D-ready player. Additional Specifications Brightness 1800 Lumens Contrast Ratio 4000:1 Weight 10 lbs. Dimensions 14.2"x4.5"x12.2" oom 1.2 Available August, 2011 Price $1,499 OPTOMA UNVEILS TWO FULL 1080p 3D PROJECTORS FOR THE CUSTOM INSTALLATION MARKET FREMONT, Calif. | August 16, 2011 | Maintaining its position on the leading edge in projection home theater, Optoma, the best-selling DLP projector brand in the Americas, today introduced the HD8300 and the HD3300, the company's first full 1080p 3D home theater models designed for the custom installation market. Incorporating its newest technologies and design features to deliver uncompromised performance, both the HD8300 ($4,499) and the HD3300 ($1,999) will begin shipping later this month. Attention Editors: Links to hi-res images are at the end of the release "These new projectors are shining examples of why Optoma has earned a reputation for delivering industry-leading innovation and outstanding image quality," said Jon Grodem, Optoma's senior director of product and marketing. "Both deliver tremendous performance and will give installers options to meet their customer's needs." According to Grodem, the DLP technology in Optoma's projectors is the same as is being used in today's professional digital cinemas, "Now anyone can have that same professional quality in their home for everyday use." The HD8300 builds on the company's award-winning HD8200 model and represents its top-of-the-line 3D projector. Delivering a robust 1500 lumens, the HD8300 employs the company's latest generation frame-interpolation processing, PureMotion4D, which allows the user to easily customize the level of processing to suit the content. At its lowest setting, PureMotion4D maximizes the detail of every frame while still retaining the "dream-like" quality of film. At its highest setting, it virtually eliminates motion blur, making it ideal for fast-paced sports and non-stop action films. The HD8300 also incorporates Optoma's proprietary PureColor technology and a new color management system to optimize and fine tune primary and secondary colors for calibration precision. PureColor provides unprecedented control over the image and makes it possible to achieve vivid, balanced, and uniform color for vibrant and natural looking 2D and 3D images that remain smooth and judder-free for greater realism. For increased placement flexibility, the HD8300 offers PureShift lens shift and a wide 1.5x zoom ratio. And, ISFccc (Imaging Science Foundation Custom Calibration Configuration) controls, with day and night modes, are available for adjustment by certified installers. The HD8300 has been developed to take advantage of the company's new 3D-RF glasses, which use RF (radio frequency) technology and have been specifically designed to maximize brightness and contrast while eliminating the line of sight and synchronization issues commonly experienced with systems using infra-red (IR) emitters. The new glasses are fully rechargeable; the RF emitter is included with the projector, while the glasses will be sold separately. The HD8300 supports all the HDMI 1.4a mandatory 3D formats, including both Side-by-Side and Top & Bottom formats, and more. To further enhance 3D compatibility, Side-by-Side and Top & Bottom formats can be manually enabled to allow other non-HDMI 1.4a compatible devices, such as older set top boxes, Xbox360, or PCs, to display 3D via the VGA or HDMI ports. Accordingly, the HD8300 offers two HDMI 1.4a ports, one VGA port, as well as connections for component video, composite video, RS-232, two +12V triggers, and a VESA 3D port. The HD8300 ships standard with a back-up remote in case the primary remote is lost or damaged. The backup remote is magnetically held onto the unit for emergency usage. Optoma HD3300 For custom installation customers looking for a more budget-friendly alternative but who still want a projector with full 3D compatibility, Optoma's HD3300 is designed to fit the bill. Powered with 2000 lumens and delivering a contrast ratio of 5000:1, the HD3300 incorporates the company's PureMotion3D and PureDepth technologies to deliver a truly dynamic cinematic experience. PureMotion3D frame interpolation processing almost eliminates judder to create smoother video sequences, and PureDepth optimizes the projector's brightness and image configuration, ensuring stunning image quality both in 2D and 3D modes. The HD3300 also uses Optoma's new color processing system to improve color accuracy, contrast, black levels and shadow details. Further image customization is achieved through ISFccc controls. The HD3300 also supports all the HDMI 1.4a mandatory 3D formats, including both Side-by-Side and Top & Bottom formats, and more. To further enhance 3D compatibility, Side-by-Side and Top & Bottom formats can be manually enabled to allow other non-HDMI 1.4a compatible devices, such as older set top boxes, Xbox360, or PCs, to display 3D via the VGA or HDMI ports. Accordingly, the HD3300 offers two HDMI 1.4a ports, one VGA port, as well as connections for component video, composite video, RS-232, a +12V trigger, and a VESA 3D port. Like the HD8300, the HD3300 also employs the company's new 3D-RF glasses. The RF emitter is included with the projector, while the glasses will be sold separately. Additional Specifications HD8300 HD3300 Brightness (Lumens) 1500 2000 Contrast Ratio (Full on/Full off) 30,000:1 5000:1 Contrast Ratio (ANSI) 700:1 500:1 Weight (lbs.) 18.5 10 Dimensions 19.3"x7.6"x14.6" 14.2"x4.5"x12.2" Zoom 1.5x 1.2x Available August 2011 August 2011 Price $4,499 $1,999 |
| BlackBerry Music to serve up 50 songs for $5 a month? Posted: 20 Aug 2011 02:33 PM PDT  Well, it looks like BlackBerry's banking on another BBM to pull it out of the enterprise-only lurch, and this one should be like music to your ears. Earlier this week, we reported that RIM was readying a new music service, and now All Things D is giving us some juicy (unofficial) details on the tentatively titled BlackBerry Music. The publication says $5 a month will give users access to 50 songs that they can share with their BlackBerry-toting friends (also signed up for the service). What's more, it could be officially pumping the jams to the UK, US, and Canada as soon this fall, with other territories to follow in 2012. Rumor also has it that users won't be able to port the music to other devices, unless they happen to have a PlayBook handy. Somehow we suspect that last bit won't be what draws the youngster in. |
| Fujitsu IS12T Mango phone ready to launch August 25th, already accepting preorders? Posted: 20 Aug 2011 12:19 PM PDT  |
| You are subscribed to email updates from Engadget News To stop receiving these emails, you may unsubscribe now. | Email delivery powered by Google |
| Google Inc., 20 West Kinzie, Chicago IL USA 60610 | |
No comments:
Post a Comment