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Engadget News |
- Droid Bionic gets a silent walkthrough (video)
- Microsoft gesture patents reveal possible dual-screen tablet focus
- IRL: The stuff Engadget editors are using... in real life
- MIT research team improves wireless security, is starting with the man in the middle
- The Engadget Mobile Podcast, live at 4:30ET!
- HP wants to give you some free apps to go with that new TouchPad
- Commenting on Engadget: a refresher
- Razer Blade: hands-on with 17 inches of gaming greatness
- Engadget's back to school guide 2011: laptops
- FCC Fridays: August 26, 2011
- LG unveils S430, S530 Aurora laptops for people who like muted hues
- Dell Vostro 360 unveiled in China, a decently priced all-in-Yuan
- Fujitsu LOOX F-07C review
- IBM developing largest data drive ever, with 120 petabytes of bliss
- Tampa Bay Buccanneers to use iPads as playbooks, not PlayBooks
- Google TV coming to the UK within six months
- ETRO robot wears its heart on its face, promises to love you
- LG and GM team up to build next generation of electric cars
- Samsung Galaxy W to launch on Three network in the UK next month
- DirecTV's Nomad teaser page suggests a Slingbox competitor, but little else
- PlayBook OS version 2.0 leaked: is RIM really sacking BES?
- Google shutters Slide, founder Max Levchin moves to greener pastures
- JailbreakMe creator Comex joins Apple as an intern
- Panasonic shrinks its Micro Four Thirds lenses, launches X-series with wide-angle, telephoto zooms
- Panasonic Lumix FX90 point-and-shoot packs built-in WiFi, Android / iPhone app compatibility
- Panasonic Lumix FZ150 builds on FZ47 superzoom, adds CMOS sensor, 1080p video
- Xbox 360's ESPN3 app updated with more voice control, split screen and more
- playGo USB does wireless audio slightly cheaper than a Sonos
- Traktor Kontrol S2 digital DJ system shaves a few inches and bones off its big brother
- HTC Omega blessed with renders, revealing its front-facing camera
- Live from the Engadget reader meetup in NYC
- Olympus PEN E-PM1 Mini gets a $500 price tag, September release date
- Personal subtitle glasses from Sony may get trial run in UK next year
- Fossil's Meta Watch passes the FCC, your magic wristwatch fantasies are about to come true
- HTC Sense 3.5 beta screenshots leak, bring tears of joy to weather widget lovers
- Samsung's IFA app unveils Galaxy Tab 7.7, Wave 3 and Galaxy Note
- Drift HD helmet cam review
- Sony Ericsson updates Xperia line with the latest Gingerbread goods
| Droid Bionic gets a silent walkthrough (video) Posted: 26 Aug 2011 12:01 PM PDT  | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Microsoft gesture patents reveal possible dual-screen tablet focus Posted: 26 Aug 2011 11:33 AM PDT  | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| IRL: The stuff Engadget editors are using... in real life Posted: 26 Aug 2011 11:00 AM PDT  We still see reviews as a snapshot in time -- our job, after all, is to size up the products folks might be thinking of buying today, and it's not fair to stay mum while we wait for companies to tweak products they had no business shipping half-baked in the first place. But we don't think the conversation should end with the review. You guys already get to sound off on the things you own in the "How would you change?" column. Consider this our turn. Netflix on Chrome OS Since this series is partly about revisiting products that perhaps weren't done growing, let's kick it off with the Series 5 -- aka, the first Chromebook to hit the market. What made this product so challenging to review is that on the one hand, people wanted to know if they should buy it straight away. On the other, it was, by design, an unfinished product. As obvious as it was that Chrome OS was immature, it was equally clear that Google was planning on rolling out updates. Yes, it was maddening not to have offline support out of the box, but I still earnestly believe the company is aware of such shortcomings, and isn't going to just let the OS stand as is.Well, here we are. Last month, Chrome OS got VPN and (huzzah!) Netflix support. The funny thing is, I sat down prepared to write a few paragraphs about what it's like streaming movies on my Series 5. What can I say, though? It's just like using Netflix in Chrome, or any browser, really. I will say that that bright, matte display I loved so much the first time around suddenly became even more useful. Remember that without Netflix support, I was mostly using the screen for checking email, web browsing, chatting and watching "Best Cry Ever" approximately eighteen times. Leaning back and watching Mad Men reminded me what an excellent display this is (especially for a $500 system!), and I do hope it'll make a cameo in more Samsung laptops. As for movies, they looked smooth when I streamed them over WiFi, and actually held up better than I thought when I switched to the built-in Verizon Wireless connection. As you can imagine, though, I encountered some hiccups, and quickly ditched 3G for WiFi.  And while I'm on the subject of things I didn't delve into in my original review, let's talk updates. Availing myself of Netflix support was intuitive enough: just to go to the settings menu, select "About Chrome OS" and click the box that says "Check for update." Once I did, it told me what I already knew -- that an update was available -- and promptly began downloading it. The next time I had to click anything, it was to restart the computers the changes could take effect. That's simple enough; it was nice that for the most part I was able to dispense with clicking through dialog boxes while the OS just did its thing. Still, why did I have to dig for the update manually? My security software downloads updates of its own accord. When I use Windows, I have it set to download updates automatically (my Mac presents me with a pop-up alert). Frankly, I don't care so much if Chrome OS asks me for permission or just goes ahead and brings itself up to date; I'd just rather the onus not be on me.But I digress. All told, Netflix support is a welcome (and unsurprising) update. Now, can we get some offline action up in here? -- Dana Wollman Acer Iconia Tab A500 in coach Now why, one might wonder, would someone choose to take a slice of Honeycomb from Acer along on a flight when one could instead take the thinner, lighter, juicier Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1? The answer, my friends, was sitting down there on the bottom of the thing: a full USB port that got me thinking. Hey, I haven't used that Atek travel keyboard in awhile. Let's leave the Lenovo home for this flight and try living in a post-PC world. Also, Darren still has the Tab, so for better or worse this was my only choice.Sure enough, the A500 works like a charm, chatting with the keyboard like the two were meant for each other -- except that I can't hit Ctrl + Backspace to delete whole words. I'm beginning to see some of the appeal of working with a tablet and a keyboard, rather than a laptop -- it's certainly lighter, takes up less space in my bag, the battery life is great and instant-on everything is always nice -- but now that I'm actually here typing I'd still rather have my laptop. And, when using it as just a tablet, I can't help but think I'd rather have the Galaxy Tab. The Acer's a nice piece of hardware, sophisticated and serious looking, with battery more than adequate to manage my musings from 7B, but the off-angle contrast on the screen disappoints, and finding a good way to situate the thing next to the keyboard is something of a challenge. -- Tim Stevens About that 11-inch Air... The nature of tech blogging -- for me, at least -- means being constantly ready to get online, and for that I tether over 3G -- the carrier-legal way. Initially, I went with a 3G-enabled tablet, which actually wasn't all that terrible -- until I needed to get work done, that is. After a few months of pecking at an onscreen keyboard and shifting between full screen apps, I wanted to pull my hair out. Thankfully, this was around the time Apple introduced it's beefed-up MacBook Airs. This latest suite of ultraportables from Cupertino have received fairly glowing reviews, but I've taken note that many -- including ours -- focused on the 13-inch model and not the 11-incher. I've been using one of these ultra-tiny devices while commuting for the past few weeks, and wanted to briefly delve into some key things I've noted. Surprisingly, it's got nothing to do with the lack of an on-board SD card slot (which hasn't caused me much grief, by the way), but more the screen itself.  There's much to be said about the form factor. My main laptop is a 2010 15-inch MacBook Pro with Core i7 decked out with a 1680 x 1050, anti-glare display in the usual 16:10 aspect ratio. The 11-inch Air's 1366 x 768 resolution is nothing to scoff at, although the 16:9 orientation does appear a tad vertically challenged. When it comes to working in a cramped bus seat, however, I find the extra bit of scrolling a fair trade-off -- not least because of the functionality OS X Lion brings. For one, I usually have room to position the screen without hitting the backrest in front of me, and with Lion's multiple desktops I can easily simulate my usual dual-screen desk setup. The only issue I've come across with real estate is that certain overlay windows in web browsers get chopped at the bottom when there's no option to scroll. Trapped! My major qualm is with the 11-inch's screen hinge -- sure, you can easily open it with a single digit and the level of torque feels acceptable, but any minor bump sends it flying all the way back. The Air's otherwise a particularly travel-friendly gadget, to say the least, so I'm amazed that I constantly need to reposition the screen if I don't feel like having it at full tilt. Furthermore, even though they add just a paltry few ounces, cases like the Speck SeeThru only exaggerate the weight distribution, which is disappointing for an -- Joe Pollicino One e-reader to rule them all There are four or five e-readers cluttering my workspace at present, but only one has graduated from the testing phase to full-time post-work accessory. I've still got too many unread paperbacks cluttering my apartment at present to make a full-time commitment to the device, but Barnes & Noble's touchscreen Nook has earned itself a permanent spot in my messenger bag. The more I use it, the more apparent it becomes that the company has really hit upon the perfect size for this kind of device. The Nook is thin and light, without sacrificing any screen real estate. It fits perfectly in the hand and hardly takes up space in my bag.I don't miss the keys much, either -- in fact, I don't type on the thing unless I'm looking for a book in the store. The social functionality is wasted on me. The whole going two months without a charge thing was a bit overstated, it turns out -- I've had to charge it a bit more than I'd anticipated. As for the software itself, I've had to do a few hard reboots after having the Nook freeze on its own screen saver, but still, nothing too earth-shattering. -- Brian Heater | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| MIT research team improves wireless security, is starting with the man in the middle Posted: 26 Aug 2011 10:35 AM PDT  Now that they've finished building a robot capable of making cakes, MIT's researchers can get on with the serious business of improving our wireless security. In a new study it reveals a technique dubbed tamper-evident pairing that stops so-called man-in-the-middle attacks. Put simply, a hacker intercepts your wireless communications, reads it and passes it onto the recipient, pretending to be you. Because the hacker controls the flow of information between the two parties, it's difficult to detect. MIT's process randomizes and encrypts the data with silence patterns and strings of additional information, which a hacker won't be able to replicate. The best part is that the added security measures only add 23 milliseconds of time onto each transmission. As fixing our wireless security problems is now out the door, the team are probably off to solve some more giant Rubik's cubes. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| The Engadget Mobile Podcast, live at 4:30ET! Posted: 26 Aug 2011 10:30 AM PDT  | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| HP wants to give you some free apps to go with that new TouchPad Posted: 26 Aug 2011 10:09 AM PDT  Update: We're hearing in comments that the codes are no longer working. Thankfully, HP has promised more free dealies in the near future. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Commenting on Engadget: a refresher Posted: 26 Aug 2011 09:47 AM PDT  Read on for some guidelines to keep in mind. Commenting on Engadget: a human's guide In general: The Engadget comments section is a place for our readers to engage in discussion about the posts -- it's really that simple. We encourage that discussion, and we'll be the first to admit that lots of times our readers offer insights that lead us to update our posts, or direct us to entirely new angles and stories. We love that, and we love our readers. We seriously do. Some basic ideas on commenting here. We think that comments should always be on topic. We encourage and welcome debate, even if it's fervent, because we know how much you care about this stuff -- we care about it, too! However, your comments should be reasonably polite and wherever possible, lighthearted. Making personal attacks against other commenters, publications, or our own editors seriously degrades the community and quality of the discussion, and it won't be tolerated. While we're fine with disagreements, we're not that crazy about being the battleground for epic fanboy wars. We want you to debate, but when that debate devolves into name calling and / or cyclical fanaticism (especially when you've moved way off topic), it's not a good use of anyone's brainpower. Also, if you've come to Engadget for the express purpose of whipping people into a frenzy (or whipping yourself into a frenzy), don't expect to stick around very long. It's easy to spot the folks who want to have a healthy debate and the folks who just want to troll. Seriously, Apple, Android, Microsoft, Nokia, RIM, Dell, etc. fanboys -- please just go away unless you have something intelligent and reasonable to bring to the table. On that note, we encourage our readers and commenters to reach out to us personally and report other commenters who seem to be acting inhuman... or inhumane. Together, we believe we can improve the quality of comments on the site. We are aware of the fact that any system like ours can be gamed -- and we're aware of the fact that people actually do things like make multiple profiles and argue with themselves simply to cause problems. Just be aware we'll delete and ban you for that, too! Comment deletion: There are many reasons your comment might be deleted, but here are some of the most common ones. Spamming of any type, be it human or robot-generated, is always deleted. If you're trying to sell something in comments, you're a spammer. Trolling is also unacceptable -- we recognize that a lot of you trolls don't even realize that you're trolls, but believe us -- you are. We'll delete your comments if we feel they're disruptive or annoying. We also delete comments that are racist, sexist, overly obscene, or offensive in any way. We delete comments which are personal attacks -- whether directed at an editor or another commenter. Finally, we reserve the right to delete any comment at our discretion (please see below). Banning: If you create a history of trolling or other offensive behavior, or you're simply a total jerk, we'll just ban your account. That means that your username, email, Twitter name, Facebook account, OpenID login, and potentially IP address will be barred from our system, and you'll no longer be able to comment. You deleted my comment. Isn't that censorship? No. Engadget, along with its parent company AOL, allows comments in order to further the discussion, engage our readers, and to let interested parties have a good time (and maybe learn something)! Engadget's commenting sections are not open forums where you can say whatever you please, and commenting on Engadget is not a right of law passed down to you in the Constitution. Engadget is a news site and a business. The editorial staff does not delete comments without good reason, but deletions are always at the discretion of the editors. There are thousands of active commenters on Engadget, and we try to keep the comment sections a fun, engaging experience for all of its readers. There's a comment that's offensive to me. What can I do about it? There's a "report" button on all comments which will alert our staff that the comment has been flagged. We do look at reported comments, and delete where we deem appropriate. Keep in mind, however, that we know who is reporting what comments, so think before you report -- you don't want to be on our watchlist for reporting a comment for no reason at all, because that doesn't help anybody, does it? Meet the mods: None of this would be possible without our crew of hard working mods. The team includes Lord Vader, d0mth0ma5, Mike10010100, techee44, fishkid13, Allegrotechie, itakafu, LucarioWuff, echO_W, sooper_engadget12, ollieford, devron, Hectix, masterofrandom, CommunistJack, girishp, Ferrara101, Tubamajuba, JeffB2006, SciencePro, and jinlee -- the folks with "Mod" by their name. They're tasked with reading through the comments and taking action -- including deleting and, if needed, banning -- when necessarily. They're mostly very nice, but will open up a can of moderation on you, if need be. We realize that we're ultimately responsible for the tone of comments here, and we're doing our best to be more vigilant about watching out for problems. We love Engadget, and we take full responsibility for its quality. We also love our readers, and want to make it a safe, enjoyable place for all who wish to participate. But, sometimes we could use a hand. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Razer Blade: hands-on with 17 inches of gaming greatness Posted: 26 Aug 2011 09:00 AM PDT  That's dandy, but we're more stoked on the 480 x 800 LCD trackpad just to the right of the backlit keyboard. It works either as a multitouch-enabled input device or as an additional display for in-game info when the urge to slay demons with an external mouse strikes. North of that hotness lie ten fully customizable buttons, both in appearance (courtesy of a separate LCD) and in function. The keys and trackpad are running a custom Switchblade UI -- inspired by the company's oh so sexy Switchblade concept that we saw at CES. And just like the concept, Razer's used a custom lighting panel to ensure you can see those keys clearly from an angle -- people don't look straight down at their keyboards, after all. Follow on past the break for more impressions, video and PR. We got to speak with Razer's CEO, Min-Liang Tan, about the firm's latest offering, and he explained what prompted the shift from peripheral production into PCs. He said the desire to expand beyond mice and headsets was grounded by a waning interest from other manufacturers in the gaming PC space. Razer packed some serious hardware in its first foray into laptop manufacturing, and the company worked extensively with both Intel and NVIDIA on things like thermal management to get it right. Tan was quick to point out the custom power brick (half the size of its competition), the fully anti-ghosted keyboard and the tailored green innards of the USB 3.0 port (not present in the prototype we laid eyes on) as examples of places where Razer could have compromised but didn't. In short, Razer has clearly done its homework here, and such attention to detail is much appreciated.  Michael Gorman contributed to this report. RAZER UNVEILS THE WORLD'S FIRST TRUE GAMING LAPTOP Razer launches the Razer Blade at PAX Prime featuring true portability, incredible performance, and a revolutionary user interface PAXPrime, Seattle – August 26th, 2011 – The PC industry today has never looked bleaker. The world's largest PC-maker Hewlett-Packard just announced their intention to explore the separation of its PC business. With PC manufacturers increasingly abandoning design and technology in lieu of outsourcing and cost-cutting, the PC industry has seen a severe dearth of innovation in recent years. Gaming consoles have also taken advantage of this innovation slump in the PC industry to garner attention from game developers and gamers alike, to the extent that now PC versions of cross-platform games are often sub-par ports of their console counterparts. Razer, the world leader in high performance gaming hardware, introduces the Razer Blade – a full aluminum chassis gaming laptop featuring true portability, incredible performance, and an all-new revolutionary user interface. With the introduction of the Razer Blade – a feat of modern-day systems engineering and technology, Razer is reinvigorating technological and design innovation for the entire PC industry, and encouraging gamers and developers to return to the PC as the primary gaming platform of choice. Mobile systems developed for gaming today compromise on portability and form factor for game performance. While such machines run games well, they are over 2 inches thick and can weigh more than 10lbs. The Razer Blade measures 0.88 inches thin, less than half that of current mobile gaming systems, and weighs only 6.97lbs, achieving a balance between portability and performance – making it the world's first true gaming laptop. Developed in partnership with Intel, the Razer Blade features a fast Intel® CoreTM i7 processor and a high performance NVIDIA GeForce® graphics processor. The hardware was designed to run the most demanding games of today without sacrificing the laptop's portable form factor. The Razer Blade also does not compromise on screen size as it comes with an incredible LED- backlit high-definition 17" display. The Razer Blade features the Switchblade User Interface - Razer's multi-award winning, highly intuitive interface technology. The interface is comprised of 10 dynamic adaptive tactile keys for easier access of in-game commands, and an LCD capable of two modes: one mode that displays in-game information when a mouse is in use; and another mode that functions as an ultra-sensitive, multi-touch panel designed for gaming on the go. "The Razer Blade was designed to give gamers a laptop they could truly use on the go," said Min-Liang Tan, CEO and Creative Director, Razer. "Its sleek, lightweight aluminum construction makes it the thinnest 17-inch gaming laptop available today." "We're proud to co-develop this revolutionary gaming laptop with Razer," said Mooly Eden, VP and General Manager of the PC Client Group, Intel. "Utilizing our fast Intel® CoreTM i7 processor, the Razer Blade delivers top-class gaming performance in a portable form factor." "Powered by an advanced NVIDIA GeForce® GPU with award winning NVIDIA® OptimusTM technology, the Razer Blade has the muscle to run cutting edge games with intense graphics while still offering amazing portability," said Rene Haas, General Manager of Notebook Products, NVIDIA. "The Switchblade User Interface on the Razer Blade is a revolutionary innovation that truly defines the new standard for gaming experiences on a laptop," said Min-Liang Tan. Watch the "Introducing the new Razer Blade" video at www.razerzone.com/blade About the Razer Blade gaming laptop The Razer Blade is a 17" gaming laptop that delivers incredible performance and a revolutionary user interface in a sleek, portable form factor. It features a fast Intel® CoreTM i7 processor and a high performance NVIDIA GeForce® graphics processor designed in a lightweight aluminum chassis. The revolutionary Switchblade User Interface, found next to a full-size keyboard, was designed from the ground up to enhance gaming experiences and provide more control at the gamer's fingertips. It features 10 adaptive tactile keys and a multi-touch LCD panel that can also display in-game information. And at just 0.88 inches thin and only weighing 6.97lbs, the Razer Blade is the world's first true gaming laptop. Price: US$2799.99 Availability: North America Q4 2011 Product Specifications: - 2.8GHz Intel® CoreTM i7 2640M Processor - 8GB 1333MHz DDR3 Memory - 17.3" LED Backlit Display (1920x1080) - NVIDIA GeForce® GT 555M with NVIDIA® OptimusTM Technology - 2GB Dedicated GDDR5 Video Memory - Built-in HD Webcam - Integrated 60Wh Battery - 320GB 7200rpm SATA HDD - Wireless Network 802.11 b/g/n Compatible - 16.81" (Width) x 10.9" (Depth) x 0.88" (Height); 6.97lbs (Weight) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Engadget's back to school guide 2011: laptops Posted: 26 Aug 2011 09:00 AM PDT Welcome to Engadget's Back to School guide! We know that this time of year can be pretty annoying and stressful for everyone, so we're here to help out with the heartbreaking process of gadget buying for the school-aged crowd. Today we're getting down to the very important business of helping you sift through laptops, and you can always head to the Back to School hub to see the rest of the product guides as they're added throughout the month. Be sure to keep checking back -- at the end of the month we'll be giving away a ton of the gear featured in our guides -- and hit up the hub page right here!  Ah, laptops. Some of us received our first notebooks the summer before college if not later. But times have changed and we're sure for many of the kids reading this freshman year is just an excuse to upgrade from the clunkers that carried them through high school. Either way, this one's pretty much mandatory -- unless you're a serious gamer who insists on a desktop GPU for marathon sessions of CoD: Black Ops, you're going to need a laptop for pounding out last-minute term papers in the library, taking notes in class and posting incriminating photos on Facebook. The problem is, the market's overrun with laptops that purport to be just perfect for the back to school set. They can't all be worth your money, though, so we whittled the list down to a handful of choices for each budget -- and if you're lucky you'll get your very own HP Pavilion dm1z for the pretty price of, well, nothing. Simply leave a comment below to be entered to win, and check out our giveaway page for more details. So wipe off the glasses, grab your clicker, and get ready to jump past the break for a top-level overview of this year's picks for back to school.  On the cheap
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 | The best thing about the ID47 isn't its striking metal build, but its screen. You see, Gateway is one of a few brands making use of LG's Shuriken display, which crams a 14-inch panel into a chassis typically used with 13-inch machines. We love it because it leaves the bezels nice and narrow, and also lets folks reap the benefits of both a 14-inch display and a more portable 13-inch system. Otherwise, the specs are fairly standard for this price range: a dual-core Core i5 CPU, 4GB of RAM, integrated graphics, 1366 x 768 resolution and integrated Intel graphics. |
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 | Samsung Series 3 350U2B-A01 If a tricked-out Series 9 isn't in the cards this semester, check out Samsung's Series 3 as a consolation prize. Available in 12-, 13-, 14- and 15-inch versions, the line looks a teensy bit like the MacBook Pro, but that doesn't mean these aren't damn fine looking machines. We have our eyes on the 3.1-pound 12-incher, which crams in a Core i5 CPU and 500GB hard drive. $750 on Newegg |  | Acer Aspire TimelineX AS5830TG-6402 Like the rest of Acer's TimelineX line, the 5830 offers a thin chassis and long battery life. If you wanted, you could pick this up in 13- and 14-inch versions, but the 15-inch 5830 is compelling for folks who crave that extra screen real estate but don't want to skimp on endurance. You'll also get discrete graphics, but don't expect an enormous bump in performance over competing systems. $800 on Amazon |
Money's no object
 | The Air is the spiritual heir to the MacBook, once Apple's entry-level laptop and a favorite among college-bound kids. And we have to say: we like what we're seeing. Although the Air looks nearly identical to the models that went on sale last year (save for a new backlit keyboard), it's just now risen to the task of replacing the MacBook. As always, it comes with solid-state drives, but now they run on ultra-low voltage Core i5 and Core i7 processors -- a combination of innards capable of besting larger laptops with standard-voltage CPUs. Sure, we'd love an SD card reader on the 11-inch model and more than two USB ports, but at this price, you'll be hard-pressed to find anything else that's as fast and pinch-thin. |
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 | Sony VAIO S series We already declared the stylish, long-lasting VAIO SB one of our favorite 13-inch laptops with a built-in optical drive, but if money's not a concern we suggest stepping up to the thinner SA, which boasts a 1600 x 900 display and is offered with solid-state drives. $1,250 on Sony |  | HP Envy 14 We were enamored enough with the Envy 14 when it was made over with an engraved aluminum lid and backlit keyboard, but we love it even more now that HP's refreshed it with USB 3.0 and Sandy Bridge processors. Oh, and the company fixed that flaky trackpad, too -- we've been testing one, and can assure you the experience is much improved. $1,000 and up on HP |
Engadget's Back to School Giveaway
Official Rules
No Purchase Required to Enter or Win
Eligibility: Engadget's Back to School Giveaway (the "Giveaway") is open only to individuals who are legal residents of the fifty (50) United States (including the District of Columbia) and Canada (excluding Quebec) who are 18 years of age or older. Employees of Weblogs Inc. LLC, AOL Inc., their advertising or promotion agencies, those involved in the production, development, implementation or handling of Giveaways, any agents acting for, or on behalf of the above entities, their respective parent companies, officers, directors, subsidiaries, affiliates, licensees, service providers, prize suppliers any other person or entity associated with the Giveaways (collectively "Giveaway Entities") and/or the immediate family (spouse, parents, siblings and children) and household members (whether related or not) of each such employee, are not eligible. All U.S., federal, state and local and Canadian federal, provincial, and municipal laws and regulations apply. Void in Quebec, Puerto Rico and where prohibited by law.
Sponsor: The Giveaway is sponsored by Weblogs Inc. LLC, 770 Broadway, New York, NY 10003 ("Sponsor").
Agreement to Official Rules: Participation in the Giveaway constitutes entrant's full and unconditional agreement to and acceptance of these Official Rules and the decisions of the Sponsor, which are final and binding. Winning a prize is contingent upon fulfilling all requirements set forth herein.
Giveaway Period: The Giveaway begins at 12PM ET on August 2, 2011 and ends at 12PM ET on September 9, 2011 (the "Giveaway Period"). The Giveaway Period shall be divided into fifteen (15) separate Entry Periods:
Entry Period 1 begins at 12PM ET on August 2, 2011 and ends at 12PM ET on September 9, 2011.
Entry Period 2 begins at 12PM ET on August 2, 2011 and ends at 12PM ET on September 9, 2011.
Entry Period 3 begins at 12PM ET on August 3, 2011 and ends at 12PM ET on September 9, 2011.
Entry Period 4 begins at 12PM ET on August 5, 2011 and ends at 12PM ET on September 9, 2011.
Entry Period 5 begins at 12PM ET on August 8, 2011 and ends at 12PM ET on September 9, 2011.
Entry Period 6 begins at 12PM ET on August 10, 2011 and ends at 12PM ET on September 9, 2011.
Entry Period 7 begins at 12PM ET on August 12, 2011 and ends at 12PM ET on September 9, 2011.
Entry Period 8 begins at 12PM ET on August 15, 2011 and ends at 12PM ET on September 9, 2011.
Entry Period 9 begins at 12PM ET on August 17, 2011 and ends at 12PM ET on September 9, 2011.
Entry Period 10 begins at 12PM ET on August 19, 2011 and ends at 12PM ET on September 9, 2011.
Entry Period 11 begins at 12PM ET on August 22, 2011 and ends at 12PM ET on September 9, 2011.
Entry Period 12 begins at 12PM ET on August 24, 2011 and ends at 12PM ET on September 9, 2011.
Entry Period 13 begins at 12PM ET on August 26, 2011 and ends at 12PM ET on September 9, 2011.
Entry Period 14 begins at 12PM ET on August 29, 2011 and ends at 12PM ET on September 9, 2011.
Entry Period 15 begins at 12PM ET on August 31, 2011 and ends at 12PM ET on September 9, 2011.
Entry: During the Giveaway Period, go to http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/02/engadgets-back-to-school-2011-sweepstakes-were-giving-away-3/ and follow the instructions to submit your entry. The use of any agencies or automated software to submit entries will void all entries submitted by that person.
Drawing: At the conclusion of the Giveaway Period, Sponsor will select the name of one (1) Grand Prize Winner from each of the fifteen (15) Entry Periods in a random drawing of all eligible entries received during each Entry Period. The odds of being selected as a potential winner depend on the number of eligible entries received during the applicable Entry Period. Potential Winners will be contacted via email and asked to provide their full name, age and mailing address within a specified time period. If a potential winner does not respond within the timeframe stated in the notification email, the Sponsor may select an alternate potential winner in his/her place at random from all entries received during the Entry Period. Non-winning entries from one Entry Period do not carry over into subsequent Entry Periods.
Requirements of the Potential Winners: Except where prohibited, the potential winners will be required to complete and return an affidavit of eligibility and liability/publicity release (the "Affidavit/Release") and IRS W-9 form within seven (7) days of being notified. If a potential winner fails to sign and return the Affidavit/Release and W-9 form within the required time period, an alternate entrant may be selected in his/her place in a random drawing of all entries received. Acceptance of a prize constitutes consent to use winner's name and likeness for editorial, advertising and publicity purposes without additional compensation, except where prohibited by law. In the event the potential winner of any prize is a Canadian resident, he/she will also be required to correctly answer a time-limited mathematical question to be administered by email, mail or phone to receive the prize. Limit one (1) prize per household.
Prizes: Fifteen (15) Grand Prize Winners will each receive a Back to School Prize Pack containing the following items: HP Pavilion dm1z laptop, Sony NEX-C3 digital camera, Samsung 7" Galaxy Tab, Motorola Photon 4G (Sprint) smartphone, Altec Lansing Octiv 650 speaker doc, Bowers & Wilkins C5 headphones, Nook E-reader, Timbuk2 Command Messenger bag, Elgato HDHomeRun TV tuner, Kingston Wi-Drive, 1-year Premium Spotify subscription, Scosche: goBAT II, iMainGo: X, G-Form 11" Extreme Sleeve, Canon X Mark I Mouse Lite, 1-year Premium Skype subscription, Sonic Bomb Alarm Clock, Red Swingline Stapler, Toddy Smart Cloth and Pogo Sketch. Approximate Retail Value of each Prize Pack is $3,141. Subscriptions are subject to issuer's terms and conditions. Activation fees and monthly service fees not included with any smartphone/digital devices. No cash or other substitution may be made, except by the Sponsor, who reserves the right to substitute a prize or portion of a prize with another prize of equal or greater value if the prize is not available for any reason as determined by the Sponsor in its sole discretion. Winners are responsible for any taxes and fees associated with receipt or use of a prize.
General Conditions: In the event that the operation, security, or administration of the Giveaway is impaired in any way for any reason, including, but not limited to fraud, virus, or other technical problem, the Sponsor may, in its sole discretion, either: (a) suspend the Giveaway to address the impairment and then resume the Giveaway in a manner that best conforms to the spirit of these Official Rules; or (b) award the prizes at random from among the eligible entries received up to the time of the impairment. The Sponsor reserves the right in its sole discretion to disqualify any individual it finds to be tampering with the entry process or the operation of the Giveaway or to be acting in violation of these Official Rules or in an unsportsmanlike or disruptive manner. Any attempt by any person to undermine the legitimate operation of the Giveaway may be a violation of criminal and civil law, and, should such an attempt be made, the Sponsor reserves the right to seek damages from any such person to the fullest extent permitted by law. The Sponsor's failure to enforce any term of these Official Rules shall not constitute a waiver of that provision. In case of a dispute as to the owner of an entry, entry will be deemed to have been submitted by the authorized account holder of the screen name from which the entry is made. The authorized account holder is defined as the natural person who is assigned to an e-mail address by an Internet access provider, online service provider, or other organization responsible for assigning e-mail addresses for the domain associated with the submitted e-mail address.
Release and Limitations of Liability: By participating in the Giveaway, entrants agree to release, defend indemnify and hold harmless the Giveaway Entities from and against any claim or cause of action, including without limitation, any third party claim, arising out of participation in the Giveaway or receipt, use or misuse of any prize, including, but not limited to: (a) unauthorized human intervention in the Giveaway; (b) technical errors related to computers, servers, providers, or telephone or network lines; (c) printing errors; (d) lost, late, postage-due, misdirected, or undeliverable mail; (e) errors in the administration of the Giveaway or the processing of entries; or (f) injury or damage to persons or property which may be caused, directly or indirectly, in whole or in part, from entrant's participation in the Giveaway or receipt, use or misuse of any prize. Entrant further agrees that in any cause of action, the Giveaway Entities' liability will be limited to the cost of entering and participating in the Giveaway, and in no event shall the Giveaway Entities be liable for attorney's fees. Entrant waives the right to claim any damages whatsoever, including, but not limited to, punitive, consequential, direct, or indirect damages.
TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW, THE PRIZES AND ALL ELEMENTS THEREOF ARE PROVIDED "AS IS" WITHOUT WARRANTY OR CONDITION OF ANY KIND. SPONSOR DISCLAIMS ALL EXPRESS AND IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION, OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, TITLE AND/OR NON-INFRINGEMENT. Some jurisdictions do not allow the disclaimer of implied warranties. In such jurisdictions, some of the foregoing disclaimers may not apply to you insofar as they relate to implied warranties.
Disputes: Except where prohibited, entrant agrees that any and all disputes, claims and causes of action arising out of, or connected with, the Giveaway or any prize awarded shall be resolved individually, without resort to any form of class action, and exclusively by the appropriate court located in the Commonwealth of Virginia. All issues and questions concerning the construction, validity, interpretation and enforceability of these Official Rules, entrant's rights and obligations, or the rights and obligations of the Sponsor in connection with the Giveaway, shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia, without giving effect to any choice of law or conflict of law rules (whether of the Commonwealth of Virginia or any other jurisdiction), which would cause the application of the laws of any jurisdiction other than the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Giveaway Results: To request the names of the winners, send a self-addressed stamped envelope to Engadget Back to School Giveaway Winners, Zach Honig, 770 Broadway, New York, NY 10003. Requests must be received by September 30, 2011.
Posted: 26 Aug 2011 08:36 AM PDT
Update: It appears the FCC is doing some work on its website, which means some of the links may show up as an error for the next few days.
Phones
Read - Huawei G3512
Read - Huawei U8652
Read - Huawei U5200
Read - RIM REM71UW
Read - Samsung GT-S7250 Wave
Read - Samsung GT-I8150 Galaxy W
Read - Samsung GT-I9100P
Read - Samsung GT-C3330
Read - Samsung SGH-T989 Hercules
Read - Samsung E110S
Read - Vertu RM-681V (Constellation T)
Read - Fujitsu TSI11
LG unveils S430, S530 Aurora laptops for people who like muted hues
Posted: 26 Aug 2011 08:11 AM PDT
UNIQUE CRYSTALLINE FINISH AND TOP PERFORMANCE SET LG'S NEW AURORA NOTEBOOKS APART
With Powerful Features and Eye-Catching Designs, LG S430 and LG S530 Offer an Enticing Package
SEOUL, Aug. 26, 2011 – LG Electronics (LG) today announced two new notebooks in their Aurora series -- the LG S430 and LG S530. With attractive, brightly colored exteriors and boasting 14-inch and 15.6-inch HD LED LCD screens, the LG S430 and LG S530 offer an alluring design with a sleek, Crystalline Finish, while also delivering outstanding computing power.
The LG 430 and the LG S530 provide an outstanding value package through their ingenious Crystalline Finish lids. Using NCVM (Non-Conductive Vapor Metallization) technology, an innovative coating process that produces a colorful metallic veneer, LG Aurora notebooks have a pellucid, glossy exterior that provides genuine value to customers through improved scratch resistance and a strengthened cover. Bold chamfer cutting around the chassis enhances the slim, sharp feel of the Aurora notebooks, while bold coloring – in Aurora Purple or Aurora Blue – delivers the perfect highlight.
"We've designed our notebooks to offer a computing experience that is as stylish as it is powerful," said J.J. Lee, Executive Vice President and Head of LG Electronics PC Business Unit. "With its unique Crystalline Finish, the LG S430 and LG S530 set new standards in design while offering features and functions that can compete with any notebooks in their class."
The LG S430 and LG S530 include optimized features that let users carry out everyday tasks or enjoy multimedia content with absolutely no frustration. With a second generation Intel? Core™ i5 processor – which is 20 percent faster than the previous generation of Intel processors – and an external graphics card, the Aurora notebooks deliver faster, smarter performance. In addition, content-sharing software lets users wirelessly share videos, photos, and music from other DLNA-enabled devices to then enjoy on the notebook.
Supported by the "Crystalline by Aurora" campaign, the LG S430 and the LG S530 will be available in the Middle East, Africa and Asia early September followed by Europe, the Americas and CIS soon after.
With Powerful Features and Eye-Catching Designs, LG S430 and LG S530 Offer an Enticing Package
SEOUL, Aug. 26, 2011 – LG Electronics (LG) today announced two new notebooks in their Aurora series -- the LG S430 and LG S530. With attractive, brightly colored exteriors and boasting 14-inch and 15.6-inch HD LED LCD screens, the LG S430 and LG S530 offer an alluring design with a sleek, Crystalline Finish, while also delivering outstanding computing power.
The LG 430 and the LG S530 provide an outstanding value package through their ingenious Crystalline Finish lids. Using NCVM (Non-Conductive Vapor Metallization) technology, an innovative coating process that produces a colorful metallic veneer, LG Aurora notebooks have a pellucid, glossy exterior that provides genuine value to customers through improved scratch resistance and a strengthened cover. Bold chamfer cutting around the chassis enhances the slim, sharp feel of the Aurora notebooks, while bold coloring – in Aurora Purple or Aurora Blue – delivers the perfect highlight.
"We've designed our notebooks to offer a computing experience that is as stylish as it is powerful," said J.J. Lee, Executive Vice President and Head of LG Electronics PC Business Unit. "With its unique Crystalline Finish, the LG S430 and LG S530 set new standards in design while offering features and functions that can compete with any notebooks in their class."
The LG S430 and LG S530 include optimized features that let users carry out everyday tasks or enjoy multimedia content with absolutely no frustration. With a second generation Intel? Core™ i5 processor – which is 20 percent faster than the previous generation of Intel processors – and an external graphics card, the Aurora notebooks deliver faster, smarter performance. In addition, content-sharing software lets users wirelessly share videos, photos, and music from other DLNA-enabled devices to then enjoy on the notebook.
Supported by the "Crystalline by Aurora" campaign, the LG S430 and the LG S530 will be available in the Middle East, Africa and Asia early September followed by Europe, the Americas and CIS soon after.
Dell Vostro 360 unveiled in China, a decently priced all-in-Yuan
Posted: 26 Aug 2011 07:46 AM PDT
[Thanks, Czar]
Posted: 26 Aug 2011 07:01 AM PDT
Hardware
To accommodate the full-featured Windows 7 OS, it is no surprise that the F-07C ended up being a fairly chunky device -- we're looking at a 125 x 61 x 19.8mm body weighing 218 grams (7.69 ounces), a far cry from many smartphones these days, especially those crazy thin ones that keep popping up in Japan. This is mostly to do with the Intel Atom Z600 inside the phone, but while this chip is capable of delivering 1.2GHz of number crunching power, it's actually limited to just half that clock speed on the F-07C for the sake of better battery life and less heat emission. That said, this is still technically one of the world's smallest Windows machines, let alone one that can handle phone calls, but more on that later.
By now you would've figured out that the F-07C sports a landscape QWERTY slide-out keyboard -- it slides up easily thanks to the spring-assisted mechanism (though it can still be slicker), though we noticed that the gap between the two halves of the phone is pretty wide as well. The keyboard has four rows of keys, garnished by a little black trackball on the right that can be tapped for toggling left-click, though its sunken-in nature means you might prefer using the dedicated left-click flat button at the top left of the keyboard. As for the layout, along with the usual alphabets and Fn1 symbols there's also a set of yellow Fn2 keys, which are just F5 to F12 keys, while there are dedicated keys near the trackball for F1 to F4.
Like many Japanese phones, the key travel is short thus easy to press with thumbs, but since we have a full keyboard here (even Ctrl, Alt, Tab and Windows keys are included), people with bigger hands will have to make do with the relatively small keys within the cramped space. Hey, at least you can still do the good old Ctrl+Alt+Delete combo --good thing they kept the backspace button further away from the delete button.
There isn't much going on around the screen except for the few buttons and LEDs. You may think that there are three buttons at the bottom, but in fact, the dent below the Windows logo is merely a microphone sandwiched between two hidden blue LEDs; whereas on the left you have a Clear button, and on the right there's a phone button that also acts as a power button.
Along with the phone itself there's also an optional charging dock by the name of F01, which adds four USB ports plus an HDMI-out port -- this is why the dock interfaces with the phone via the proprietary port instead of micro-USB. Most interestingly, however, is that said dock also has a built-in fan that blows gently on the phone's back, which is a necessity in Windows mode.
Symbian mode
Going back to the Symbian phone side of things, here you only get the basic features like phone calls, SMS, multimedia and other simple tools. More advanced functions such as browsing are, much like other Japanese non-Android phones, nowhere to be found (even WiFi is missing!). Still, there are some bits and bobs that are worth pointing out here, like the aforementioned torch and fake incoming call tools, along with handwriting input for Chinese and Japanese users. Also, with the QWERTY keyboard open, you can hit the number keys directly to prepare a call; or you can hit any number up to 60, and then scroll the trackball upwards to start a countdown by minutes.
Earlier we pointed out the lack of a volume rocker on the F-07C, so how do we go about adjusting the volume? Well, it's actually pretty easy: just go to menu, then "Settings & NW services," then "Alerts & Sounds," then "Adjust Volume," and then finally "Alert/Call volume." See? Super easy. If you want to change the volume in the middle of a call, just hit the volume button on the screen -- obviously this would be more or less a trial and error unless you're using a hands-free. Given that this is the most basic setting for a phone, such complicated procedure is pretty unacceptable.
Multimedia in Symbian
Here's another image-related caveat: while browsing the captured shots, you can't make use of the phone's multitouch feature for pinch-to-zoom; and if you tilt the screen slightly, you can already see the backlight on the edge, which can be distracting. Things aren't any better with music playback: you can probably tolerate the fact that you must drag your music into a specific folder, but you must also get used to the lack of a 3.5mm headphone jack -- there's a micro-USB to 3.5mm jack adapter in the box for this, which means you can't charge up your phone while privately enjoying some tunes, nor can you plug the adapter in while the phone's docked as the dock blocks the USB port. How thoughtful.
Windows 7 mode
By default, F-07C's Windows mode starts up with a custom-made finger-friendly launcher for opening Office applications (you get a two-year license for Office 2010) and controlling wireless features. As mentioned earlier, the launcher can also be toggled using the top button on the right of the phone, and you can switch off the auto start-up option in settings. The Windows lives on a 32GB eMMC inside the phone, but you can also access your microSD using an application, though for some strange reason, there's a three-minute time limit for this.
In addition to the keyboard and trackball, you can of course use the multitouch screen to interact with Windows 7 here, but of course, given the pixel density, it's not easy to hit the tiny buttons and links -- or even pick the right cards in Solitaire -- using your fat fingers. It's best to stick to the trackball for more precise control.
Performance (Windows 7)
We didn't get around to trying some games on the F-07C, but put it this way: we couldn't even get Flash videos on YouTube and Viddler to play smoothly at 480p, though they were OK at 360p. Still, Facebook games won't be any better.
Battery life in Windows 7 mode
According to the spec sheet, the F-07C can manage about two hours in Windows 7 mode, though we'd say it's closer to just over an hour, and obviously you get even less when using 3G data connection. So really, the Windows mode is only suitable for urgent document tweaks or for some bedtime browsing; just don't expect this device to let you play Doom while on the move. Even the power management tool struggled to monitor battery level, as it kept jumping between 30 percent and 100 percent when it's low on juice. Luckily, when the battery level is critically low, the phone forces itself back to Symbian mode, thus letting it last much longer as a simple phone.
Connectivity in Windows 7 mode
The F-07C's Windows mode can make use of the 3G connection using the DoCoMo Connection Manager, though good luck to that if you're not fluent in Japanese -- the Windows language pack can only fix so much. Also, turning on 3G automatically kills the WiFi, and you'd have to manually start WiFi again once you close the 3G connection; likewise with 3G if your connection drops, as it's not smart enough to attempt reconnection on its own. As for making phone calls in Windows mode, well, we didn't have much luck with that, but we've been able to pick up incoming calls.
Wrap-up
Engadget Chinese Mobile Editor Danny Mak contributed to this review.
IBM developing largest data drive ever, with 120 petabytes of bliss
Posted: 26 Aug 2011 06:35 AM PDT
Tampa Bay Buccanneers to use iPads as playbooks, not PlayBooks
Posted: 26 Aug 2011 06:12 AM PDT
Google TV coming to the UK within six months
Posted: 26 Aug 2011 05:47 AM PDT
ETRO robot wears its heart on its face, promises to love you
Posted: 26 Aug 2011 05:20 AM PDT
LG and GM team up to build next generation of electric cars
Posted: 26 Aug 2011 04:29 AM PDT
Abbreviation loving multinationals Lucky Goldstar and General Motors have entered into an "Electric Vehicle Cooperation" agreement to build the next generation of EVs. The partnership follows a successful dating phase where LG supplied the batteries for the Chevy Volt. Now, teams from both companies will collaborate on key components, vehicle structures and architectures -- which we take to mean that it's a more substantial proposition than just battery sharing. The plan is to meet the new US fuel economy targets by 2025, so the design phase for the new autos will kick off soon. Let's hope this new venture bears some fruit that's faster than a flying banana.
Samsung Galaxy W to launch on Three network in the UK next month
Posted: 26 Aug 2011 03:21 AM PDT
DirecTV's Nomad teaser page suggests a Slingbox competitor, but little else
Posted: 26 Aug 2011 02:30 AM PDT
[Thanks, Tyler]
PlayBook OS version 2.0 leaked: is RIM really sacking BES?
Posted: 26 Aug 2011 01:54 AM PDT
Another juicy tidbit: a second screen shot after the break reveals a green robot icon in the far left. So, even if its Android integration has been delayed, at least it hasn't been forgotten.
Google shutters Slide, founder Max Levchin moves to greener pastures
Posted: 26 Aug 2011 12:27 AM PDT
It's been barely a year since Google acquired Slide for a cool $200 million, but today comes news that the Mountain View crew has decided to dissolve its social apps unit, and that renowned entrepreneur Max Levchin will be leaving the company to "pursue other opportunities." Sources close to the matter told All Things D that the decision was announced at an internal staff meeting yesterday afternoon, and that most of Slide's 100 employees will likely shift over to YouTube. A Google spokesperson later confirmed that the unit will in fact be shuttered, but didn't reveal further details of where the displaced employees will land, saying only that the majority will remain onboard. Google didn't offer a concrete explanation for the decision, though Slide had been acting as a largely autonomous and peripheral branch, and was never fully integrated into the company's larger social team. Its apps, moreover, never really took off, and are due to be phased out over the course of the next few months -- including tools like SuperPoke Pets, Disco and Photovine. And then, of course, there's Levchin -- the man who founded the company just a few years after co-founding PayPal, and who currently serves as Yelp's chairman of the board. His immediate plans remain unclear, though we and the rest of the tech world will certainly be keeping a close eye on him, wherever he lands next.JailbreakMe creator Comex joins Apple as an intern
Posted: 25 Aug 2011 11:01 PM PDT
Panasonic shrinks its Micro Four Thirds lenses, launches X-series with wide-angle, telephoto zooms
Posted: 25 Aug 2011 10:00 PM PDT
Anyone who's used Panasonic's 14-42mm Micro Four Thirds zoom lens has probably noticed its relatively bulky design, especially when compared to Olympus's counterpart. Today, the company announced a new lens that offers the same zoom and f/3.5-5.6 aperture range in a housing less than half the size when closed, and still noticeably smaller when extended. The first of two optics in Panasonic's premium X-series -- the second is a 45-170mm f/4-5.6 zoom -- it's been billed as the world's smallest digital interchangeable power zoom lens, thanks to its internal zoom motor which lets you adjust the focal length using a side-mounted rocker -- the design is similar to the zoom toggle included with the company's new FX150 superzoom. Priced at $399, it also includes a metal lens mount, instead of the plastic mount used with the existing $199 14-42mm lens.
That second 45-170mm zoom ($449) can replace Panasonic's 45-200mm lens ($349), and while the size difference isn't as dramatic is its smaller X-series sibling, it's still noticeably smaller and lighter. Both lenses include optical image stabilization and feature nano surface coatings, designed to reduce ghosting and lens flare. The 14-42mm lens will ship in October in black and white (for use with silver bodies), and the 45-170mm zoom will ship in September. They'll
Update: Panasonic issued a correction saying that both lens will be compatible with all G-series cameras without the need for a firmware update.
PANASONIC ANNOUNCES THE LUMIX GF3X, THE COMPANY'S SMALLEST COMPACT SYSTEM CAMERA COMPLETE WITH A NEW RETRACTABLE POWER ZOOM, LUMIX G X LENS
Panasonic's New Premium LUMIX G X VARIO PZ 14-42mm Lens Features a Retractable Design to Achieve Ultra-High Mobility and Stunning Photo Quality
SECAUCUS, NJ (August 26, 2011) – Panasonic today announces a newly designed and innovative LUMIX G "X" lens that retracts to help minimize its size, without compromising its focal length or image quality. Panasonic's new premium LUMIX G X VARIO PZ 14-42mm/F3.5-5.6 ASPH./ POWER O.I.S. (H-PS14042) lens, will be available with the company's smallest and lightest compact system camera as a lens kit option in the DMC-GF3X model. With electric-powered zoom operation, the retractable Power Zoom H-PS14042 lens is extremely compact, approximately 26.8mm in length, and weighs approximately 3.35oz, offering ultra-high portability.
Panasonic's new premium LUMIX "X" Series of lenses, including the LUMIX G X VARIO PZ 14-42mm/F3.5-5.6 ASPH./ POWER O.I.S., offers a versatile zoom range of 14-42mm (35mm camera equivalent: 28-84mm) suitable for a wide range of scenes, such as dynamic landscape to portrait. Also announced today is another LUMIX X lens, the LUMIX G X VARIO PZ 45-175mm/F4.0-5.6 ASPH./POWER O.I.S. Crystallizing Panasonic's optical technologies, the LUMIX X lenses feature superb image rendering for lifelike textures, crisp edge-to-edge contrast, a unique Nano Surface Coating to help minimize ghosts and flaring in natural settings with remarkable transparency.
"Panasonic continues to innovate in digital photography by offering advanced features in small and compact bodies, thus addressing the consumer's need for camera equipment to be lightweight and easy to carry," said Darin Pepple, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. "With the new LUMIX X Series of premium lenses, we do not sacrifice size for quality and Panasonic still offers top-of-the-line image quality for our G Series, but in a smaller design that makes it extremely mobile."
With the LUMIX GF3X, the camera and lens combination can achieve Light Speed AF of approximately 0.1 second – making it an extremely quick and high-performing digital camera. The LUMIX GF3X with the new 14-42 PZ lens also features POWER O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer), to make it easier to shoot clear photos even in low-lit situations. The convenient zoom lever on the lens barrel gives users a stable way to zoom. Manual focusing is also available with a manual focus lever for even more precise control.
The LUMIX GF3, like all the LUMIX G Series of Compact System Cameras, captures high-quality photo images with real-to-life details through excellent resolution, image rendering and color reproduction. With its stunningly small compact profile, the LUMIX GF3 boasts high-speed, precise Contrast AF system and quick response times. The LUMIX GF3 is also capable of 1920 x 1080 Full High Definition video in the AVCHD format.
The LUMIX GF3X will be available in a black body and black lens or a silver body and silver lens kits options in October 2011 for a suggested retail price (SRP) of $749.99. The new LUMIX G X VARIO PZ 14-42mm/F3.5-5.6 ASPH./ POWER O.I.S. (H-PS14042) lens will also be available separately for an SRP of $399.99 and will be compatible the Panasonic LUMIX G Series. For more information about Panasonic LUMIX digital cameras, please visit www.panasonic.com/lumix.
Panasonic's New Premium LUMIX G X VARIO PZ 14-42mm Lens Features a Retractable Design to Achieve Ultra-High Mobility and Stunning Photo Quality
SECAUCUS, NJ (August 26, 2011) – Panasonic today announces a newly designed and innovative LUMIX G "X" lens that retracts to help minimize its size, without compromising its focal length or image quality. Panasonic's new premium LUMIX G X VARIO PZ 14-42mm/F3.5-5.6 ASPH./ POWER O.I.S. (H-PS14042) lens, will be available with the company's smallest and lightest compact system camera as a lens kit option in the DMC-GF3X model. With electric-powered zoom operation, the retractable Power Zoom H-PS14042 lens is extremely compact, approximately 26.8mm in length, and weighs approximately 3.35oz, offering ultra-high portability.
Panasonic's new premium LUMIX "X" Series of lenses, including the LUMIX G X VARIO PZ 14-42mm/F3.5-5.6 ASPH./ POWER O.I.S., offers a versatile zoom range of 14-42mm (35mm camera equivalent: 28-84mm) suitable for a wide range of scenes, such as dynamic landscape to portrait. Also announced today is another LUMIX X lens, the LUMIX G X VARIO PZ 45-175mm/F4.0-5.6 ASPH./POWER O.I.S. Crystallizing Panasonic's optical technologies, the LUMIX X lenses feature superb image rendering for lifelike textures, crisp edge-to-edge contrast, a unique Nano Surface Coating to help minimize ghosts and flaring in natural settings with remarkable transparency.
"Panasonic continues to innovate in digital photography by offering advanced features in small and compact bodies, thus addressing the consumer's need for camera equipment to be lightweight and easy to carry," said Darin Pepple, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. "With the new LUMIX X Series of premium lenses, we do not sacrifice size for quality and Panasonic still offers top-of-the-line image quality for our G Series, but in a smaller design that makes it extremely mobile."
With the LUMIX GF3X, the camera and lens combination can achieve Light Speed AF of approximately 0.1 second – making it an extremely quick and high-performing digital camera. The LUMIX GF3X with the new 14-42 PZ lens also features POWER O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer), to make it easier to shoot clear photos even in low-lit situations. The convenient zoom lever on the lens barrel gives users a stable way to zoom. Manual focusing is also available with a manual focus lever for even more precise control.
The LUMIX GF3, like all the LUMIX G Series of Compact System Cameras, captures high-quality photo images with real-to-life details through excellent resolution, image rendering and color reproduction. With its stunningly small compact profile, the LUMIX GF3 boasts high-speed, precise Contrast AF system and quick response times. The LUMIX GF3 is also capable of 1920 x 1080 Full High Definition video in the AVCHD format.
The LUMIX GF3X will be available in a black body and black lens or a silver body and silver lens kits options in October 2011 for a suggested retail price (SRP) of $749.99. The new LUMIX G X VARIO PZ 14-42mm/F3.5-5.6 ASPH./ POWER O.I.S. (H-PS14042) lens will also be available separately for an SRP of $399.99 and will be compatible the Panasonic LUMIX G Series. For more information about Panasonic LUMIX digital cameras, please visit www.panasonic.com/lumix.
PANASONIC ANNOUNCES BRAND'S FIRST DIGITAL INTERCHANGEABLE POWER TELE-ZOOM LENS
Panasonic's New Premium LUMIX G X VARIO PZ 45-175mm Lens Offers State-of-the-Art Design to Achieve Increased Functionality and Spectacular Image Quality
SECAUCUS, NJ (August 26, 2011) – Today, Panasonic announced the LUMIX G X VARIO PZ 45-175mm/F4.0-5.6 ASPH./POWER O.I.S. (H-PS45175), the company's first cutting-edge digital interchangeable lens with electric-powered zoom operation. This marks the launch of the company's premium lens brand "X" which is compatible with the Panasonic LUMIX G Series and complies with the Micro Four Thirds™ system standard. This lens introduction accompanies another LUMIX X lens announced today, the LUMIX G X VARIO PZ 14-42mm/F3.5-5.6 ASPH./ POWER O.I.S.
The new LUMIX G X VARIO PZ 45-175mm/F4.0-5.6 ASPH./POWER O.I.S. lens features superb image rendering for lifelike textures and crisp, edge-to-edge contrast. A unique Nano Surface Coating technology minimizes reflections at entire visual light range (380nm-780nm) for a dramatic reduction of ghosts and light flare, resulting in outstandingly clear picture quality.
Using a Multi-Actuator Floating Inner Focus System to control three lens groups separately the LUMIX G X VARIO PZ 45-175mm/F4.0-5.6 ASPH./POWER O.I.S. achieves a reduction in both size and weight without compromising picture quality. Boasting outstanding compactness, the lens is approximately 90mm in length and 7.4oz in weight, resulting in ultra-high mobility.
Offering a versatile zoom range of 45-175mm the LUMIX G X VARIO PZ 45-175mm/F4.0-5.6 ASPH./POWER O.I.S. allows distant subjects to be captured sharply at the tele-end. Also notable, the lens is extremely suitable for portrait and landscape shots, as its high contrast and resolution helps images shot at the wide end maintain exceptional quality, and the zoom lever allows for quick and stable zooming, even while shooting a moving object.
The new lens system features two Extra-low Dispersion (ED) lenses which suppress chromatic aberration and contribute to high descriptive performance across the entire zoom range 45-175mm. The POWER O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) integrated into the LUMIX G X VARIO PZ 45-175mm/F4.0-5.6 ASPH./POWER O.I.S. makes it easy to shoot sharp images even in low-lit situations. With improved sensitivity of the gyro sensor, the new POWER O.I.S. also suppresses large, slow movements two times more effectively** while small, fast movements are compensated for by the conventional MEGA O.I.S.
LUMIX G X VARIO PZ 45-175mm/F4.0-5.6 ASPH./POWER O.I.S. contains seven aperture blades to help produce an attractive smoothness in out-of-focus areas even while shooting at large aperture. Adopting an inner focus system driven by a stepping motor, the lens' superior optical design supports Light Speed AF of approximately .15 seconds and fast aperture control results in a shortened shutter time lag of approximately 20% when compared to the LUMIX G VARIO 45-200mm/F4.0-5.6/MEGA O.I.S.
The Panasonic LUMIX G X VARIO PZ 45-175mm/F4.0-5.6 ASPH./POWER O.I.S. (H-PS45175) will be available in black and silver starting September 2011 with a suggested retail price of $449.99. For more information about Panasonic LUMIX digital cameras and lenses, please visit www.panasonic.com/lumix.
Panasonic's New Premium LUMIX G X VARIO PZ 45-175mm Lens Offers State-of-the-Art Design to Achieve Increased Functionality and Spectacular Image Quality
SECAUCUS, NJ (August 26, 2011) – Today, Panasonic announced the LUMIX G X VARIO PZ 45-175mm/F4.0-5.6 ASPH./POWER O.I.S. (H-PS45175), the company's first cutting-edge digital interchangeable lens with electric-powered zoom operation. This marks the launch of the company's premium lens brand "X" which is compatible with the Panasonic LUMIX G Series and complies with the Micro Four Thirds™ system standard. This lens introduction accompanies another LUMIX X lens announced today, the LUMIX G X VARIO PZ 14-42mm/F3.5-5.6 ASPH./ POWER O.I.S.
The new LUMIX G X VARIO PZ 45-175mm/F4.0-5.6 ASPH./POWER O.I.S. lens features superb image rendering for lifelike textures and crisp, edge-to-edge contrast. A unique Nano Surface Coating technology minimizes reflections at entire visual light range (380nm-780nm) for a dramatic reduction of ghosts and light flare, resulting in outstandingly clear picture quality.
Using a Multi-Actuator Floating Inner Focus System to control three lens groups separately the LUMIX G X VARIO PZ 45-175mm/F4.0-5.6 ASPH./POWER O.I.S. achieves a reduction in both size and weight without compromising picture quality. Boasting outstanding compactness, the lens is approximately 90mm in length and 7.4oz in weight, resulting in ultra-high mobility.
Offering a versatile zoom range of 45-175mm the LUMIX G X VARIO PZ 45-175mm/F4.0-5.6 ASPH./POWER O.I.S. allows distant subjects to be captured sharply at the tele-end. Also notable, the lens is extremely suitable for portrait and landscape shots, as its high contrast and resolution helps images shot at the wide end maintain exceptional quality, and the zoom lever allows for quick and stable zooming, even while shooting a moving object.
The new lens system features two Extra-low Dispersion (ED) lenses which suppress chromatic aberration and contribute to high descriptive performance across the entire zoom range 45-175mm. The POWER O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) integrated into the LUMIX G X VARIO PZ 45-175mm/F4.0-5.6 ASPH./POWER O.I.S. makes it easy to shoot sharp images even in low-lit situations. With improved sensitivity of the gyro sensor, the new POWER O.I.S. also suppresses large, slow movements two times more effectively** while small, fast movements are compensated for by the conventional MEGA O.I.S.
LUMIX G X VARIO PZ 45-175mm/F4.0-5.6 ASPH./POWER O.I.S. contains seven aperture blades to help produce an attractive smoothness in out-of-focus areas even while shooting at large aperture. Adopting an inner focus system driven by a stepping motor, the lens' superior optical design supports Light Speed AF of approximately .15 seconds and fast aperture control results in a shortened shutter time lag of approximately 20% when compared to the LUMIX G VARIO 45-200mm/F4.0-5.6/MEGA O.I.S.
The Panasonic LUMIX G X VARIO PZ 45-175mm/F4.0-5.6 ASPH./POWER O.I.S. (H-PS45175) will be available in black and silver starting September 2011 with a suggested retail price of $449.99. For more information about Panasonic LUMIX digital cameras and lenses, please visit www.panasonic.com/lumix.
Panasonic Lumix FX90 point-and-shoot packs built-in WiFi, Android / iPhone app compatibility
Posted: 25 Aug 2011 10:00 PM PDT
For many photographers, in-camera WiFi may be an attractive feature before you leave the store, but confusing setup and limited functionality reduce its appeal once you actually go and try to use it. Panasonic sets out to better take advantage of wireless connectivity with its Lumix FX90, adding Android and iPhone app support for transferring pictures and video directly to a mobile device, then uploading them to Lumix Club -- a cloud-based photo-sharing service -- and on to Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, etc. You can also share photos directly from the camera -- a dedicated WiFi button launches a menu prompting you to select a sharing service -- but app support brings the added benefit of your phone's data connection. Beyond those new wireless features, the FX90 includes a 12 megapixel CCD sensor, 5x, 24-120mm optical zoom lens, 3-inch touchscreen, and 1080i AVCHD video capture. The FX90 will ship this fall with pricing yet to be announced, but jump past the break for the full rundown from Panasonic in the meantime.
PANASONIC ADDS WI-FI® CONNECTIVTY TO THE NEW LUMIX FX90 STYLISH COMPACT DIGITAL CAMERA
With Wi-Fi Connectivity LUMIX FX90 Easily Shares Photos Via Popular Social Networks Direct from Compatible Smartphones
SECAUCUS, NJ (August 26, 2011) – Panasonic today announces a new stylish compact digital camera, the LUMIX DMC-FX90, which adds Wi-Fi® connectivity (802.11 b/g/n) to a high-performing and feature-rich model that boasts a 24mm ultra-wide LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMARIT lens with F2.5 brightness. With the addition of the Wi-Fi connectivity, the LUMIX FX90 addresses the growing communities of people who take photos and videos and want to share them instantly via online social networks.
Panasonic also introduces today LUMIX CLUB, a cloud-based service that is accessible via a smartphone and a computer browser that allows consumers to upload photos taken with the LUMIX FX90 to the following social networks: Facebook™, Flickr™, Picasa™ or YouTube™. Photos can even be shared with these sites simultaneously, making it easy and quick. Additionally, once a LUMIX CLUB account is acquired, Panasonic will also provide a free, dedicated application called "LUMIX LINK", which will be compatible with iPhone® and Android™OS smartphones, thus consumers can instantly share photos by connecting the LUMIX FX90 just once to their compatible smartphone and then using the carrier network to share photos online. After the initial set-up, sharing photos will be as simple as using the LUMIX LINK application on the smartphone.
"The FX90 is a digital camera packed with high-end imaging features, enabling consumers to take photos and videos that they are proud to share with friends and family, as well as archive to preserve their memories," said Darin Pepple, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. "With the FX90's Wi-Fi connectivity capabilities, users can now share these photos instantly on popular social networks via an iPhone or Android OS-based smartphones. Sharing photos online is one of the biggest trends now and Panasonic believes image quality does not have to be comprised. With the FX90's incredible F2.5 lens, photos will be crisp and clear, even when taken indoors with poor lighting. And with its sleek body and extremely fast Auto Focusing, the FX90 is the ideal digital camera to capture all of life's moments – big and small."
Using the LUMIX LINK application, users can enter and store all their social network account information and will not have to log-in to individual sites after the initial set-up. At home, users can directly upload the images to the social networks via the access point of a home router or a wireless connection. To make accessing Wi-Fi even easier, the LUMIX FX90 has a convenient dedicated Wi-Fi button that when pressed, directly opens a Wi-Fi Connection mode outside home and gets WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) connection at home. The Wi-Fi module is located on the opposite side of the grip so as not to interfere with the connection signal.
In addition to its Wi-Fi connectivity features, the LUMIX FX90 is an outstanding digital camera complete with a stylish design and sleek body. With an ultra-wide-angle Leica lens complete with a 5x optical zoom (available also in video recording) and an F2.5 brightness, the LUMIX FX90 excels in a variety of shooting environments. Whether taking a photo of a landscape, or capturing moving subjects even in low-lit situations – the LUMIX FX90's outstanding lens will take the photo brightly and crisply.
The LUMIX FX90 also features a 3.0-inch 460,000-dot LCD with Smart Touch, meaning all controls can be made by intuitively touching the screen. Touch operations while recording, include: Touch AF, Touch Zoom or Touch Shutter. And during playback, the Smart Touch feature can be used with the Beauty Retouch and Art Retouch modes. In addition, functions and settings used most often, such as O.I.S., AF point and white balance, can easily be customized to the user and accessed via the shortcut setting by dragging the icon to the main menu.
The LUMIX FX90's outstanding performance is powered by a 12.1-megapixel Hi-Speed CCD sensor and is compatible with high-speed, large-capacity signal processing required for 1920 x 1080 60i (sensor output 30p) full-HD video recording in the AVCHD format. Videos can also be recorded in MPEG4 format to easily playback on a computer and other portable electronic devices. To complement its high-quality video capabilities, the LUMIX FX90 also includes Dolby Digital Creator to record high quality audio. The Venus Engine powers the Sonic Speed AF, enabling extremely fast start-up times, making the LUMIX FX90 not only a powerful digital camera, but a speedy one, too. Also, the Venus Engine also provides precisely selective noise reduction to the chromatic noise without affecting the border of colors, so images are naturally clear and crisp in both photo and video recording.
Like all of Panasonic's digital cameras, the LUMIX FX90 features Intelligent Auto. When in iA mode, the LUMIX FZ47 automatically chooses the best setting based on the shooting environment and features include: Active Mode in MEGA O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilization), Motion Deblur*, Face Recognition, Face Detection, AF Tracking, Intelligent ISO Control and Intelligent Scene Selector and Intelligent Exposure. Even when shooting video, the LUMIX FX90 enables the following features when in iA: AF Tracking, MEGA O.I.S., Face Detection, Intelligent Scene Selector and Intelligent Exposure – all available to help take clear videos worthy of sharing with friends and family.
Access to the LUMIX CLUB is expected, be available on September 5, 2011 here:
http://lumixclub.panasonic.net and will allow consumers to easily share their images on Facebook, Flickr, Picasa or YouTube. In addition the LUMIX LINK applications for iPhone and Android OS smartphones will be also available. The LUMIX CLUB site will available in six languages: English, Italian, German, French, Spanish and Japanese. In the future, LUMIX CLUB plans to add the following features:
• A storage service so photos can be uploaded to an album that resides in the cloud-based networks and then viewed from smartphones, and Internet-enabled Panasonic VIERA HDTVS and Blu-ray Disc players
• An intuitive user interface with a Timeline function that has a drag-and-drop feature
• A photo sharing album function that will allow users who attended the same event, such as a wedding or party, to exchange and comment on photos and videos
Pricing and availability for the LUMIX FX90 will be announced approximately 30 days prior to shipping. For more information about Panasonic LUMIX digital cameras, please visit www.panasonic.com/lumix.
With Wi-Fi Connectivity LUMIX FX90 Easily Shares Photos Via Popular Social Networks Direct from Compatible Smartphones
SECAUCUS, NJ (August 26, 2011) – Panasonic today announces a new stylish compact digital camera, the LUMIX DMC-FX90, which adds Wi-Fi® connectivity (802.11 b/g/n) to a high-performing and feature-rich model that boasts a 24mm ultra-wide LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMARIT lens with F2.5 brightness. With the addition of the Wi-Fi connectivity, the LUMIX FX90 addresses the growing communities of people who take photos and videos and want to share them instantly via online social networks.
Panasonic also introduces today LUMIX CLUB, a cloud-based service that is accessible via a smartphone and a computer browser that allows consumers to upload photos taken with the LUMIX FX90 to the following social networks: Facebook™, Flickr™, Picasa™ or YouTube™. Photos can even be shared with these sites simultaneously, making it easy and quick. Additionally, once a LUMIX CLUB account is acquired, Panasonic will also provide a free, dedicated application called "LUMIX LINK", which will be compatible with iPhone® and Android™OS smartphones, thus consumers can instantly share photos by connecting the LUMIX FX90 just once to their compatible smartphone and then using the carrier network to share photos online. After the initial set-up, sharing photos will be as simple as using the LUMIX LINK application on the smartphone.
"The FX90 is a digital camera packed with high-end imaging features, enabling consumers to take photos and videos that they are proud to share with friends and family, as well as archive to preserve their memories," said Darin Pepple, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. "With the FX90's Wi-Fi connectivity capabilities, users can now share these photos instantly on popular social networks via an iPhone or Android OS-based smartphones. Sharing photos online is one of the biggest trends now and Panasonic believes image quality does not have to be comprised. With the FX90's incredible F2.5 lens, photos will be crisp and clear, even when taken indoors with poor lighting. And with its sleek body and extremely fast Auto Focusing, the FX90 is the ideal digital camera to capture all of life's moments – big and small."
Using the LUMIX LINK application, users can enter and store all their social network account information and will not have to log-in to individual sites after the initial set-up. At home, users can directly upload the images to the social networks via the access point of a home router or a wireless connection. To make accessing Wi-Fi even easier, the LUMIX FX90 has a convenient dedicated Wi-Fi button that when pressed, directly opens a Wi-Fi Connection mode outside home and gets WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) connection at home. The Wi-Fi module is located on the opposite side of the grip so as not to interfere with the connection signal.
In addition to its Wi-Fi connectivity features, the LUMIX FX90 is an outstanding digital camera complete with a stylish design and sleek body. With an ultra-wide-angle Leica lens complete with a 5x optical zoom (available also in video recording) and an F2.5 brightness, the LUMIX FX90 excels in a variety of shooting environments. Whether taking a photo of a landscape, or capturing moving subjects even in low-lit situations – the LUMIX FX90's outstanding lens will take the photo brightly and crisply.
The LUMIX FX90 also features a 3.0-inch 460,000-dot LCD with Smart Touch, meaning all controls can be made by intuitively touching the screen. Touch operations while recording, include: Touch AF, Touch Zoom or Touch Shutter. And during playback, the Smart Touch feature can be used with the Beauty Retouch and Art Retouch modes. In addition, functions and settings used most often, such as O.I.S., AF point and white balance, can easily be customized to the user and accessed via the shortcut setting by dragging the icon to the main menu.
The LUMIX FX90's outstanding performance is powered by a 12.1-megapixel Hi-Speed CCD sensor and is compatible with high-speed, large-capacity signal processing required for 1920 x 1080 60i (sensor output 30p) full-HD video recording in the AVCHD format. Videos can also be recorded in MPEG4 format to easily playback on a computer and other portable electronic devices. To complement its high-quality video capabilities, the LUMIX FX90 also includes Dolby Digital Creator to record high quality audio. The Venus Engine powers the Sonic Speed AF, enabling extremely fast start-up times, making the LUMIX FX90 not only a powerful digital camera, but a speedy one, too. Also, the Venus Engine also provides precisely selective noise reduction to the chromatic noise without affecting the border of colors, so images are naturally clear and crisp in both photo and video recording.
Like all of Panasonic's digital cameras, the LUMIX FX90 features Intelligent Auto. When in iA mode, the LUMIX FZ47 automatically chooses the best setting based on the shooting environment and features include: Active Mode in MEGA O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilization), Motion Deblur*, Face Recognition, Face Detection, AF Tracking, Intelligent ISO Control and Intelligent Scene Selector and Intelligent Exposure. Even when shooting video, the LUMIX FX90 enables the following features when in iA: AF Tracking, MEGA O.I.S., Face Detection, Intelligent Scene Selector and Intelligent Exposure – all available to help take clear videos worthy of sharing with friends and family.
Access to the LUMIX CLUB is expected, be available on September 5, 2011 here:
http://lumixclub.panasonic.net and will allow consumers to easily share their images on Facebook, Flickr, Picasa or YouTube. In addition the LUMIX LINK applications for iPhone and Android OS smartphones will be also available. The LUMIX CLUB site will available in six languages: English, Italian, German, French, Spanish and Japanese. In the future, LUMIX CLUB plans to add the following features:
• A storage service so photos can be uploaded to an album that resides in the cloud-based networks and then viewed from smartphones, and Internet-enabled Panasonic VIERA HDTVS and Blu-ray Disc players
• An intuitive user interface with a Timeline function that has a drag-and-drop feature
• A photo sharing album function that will allow users who attended the same event, such as a wedding or party, to exchange and comment on photos and videos
Pricing and availability for the LUMIX FX90 will be announced approximately 30 days prior to shipping. For more information about Panasonic LUMIX digital cameras, please visit www.panasonic.com/lumix.
Panasonic Lumix FZ150 builds on FZ47 superzoom, adds CMOS sensor, 1080p video
Posted: 25 Aug 2011 10:00 PM PDT
Last month, Panasonic's Lumix FZ47 made some (rather subtle) waves with its full manual video mode, lettering you control aperture and shutter speed while capturing in 1080i. Now, the company just announced its higher-end FZ150, which replaces last year's FZ100, adding 1080p AVCHD capture, a stereo mic with noise cancellation, and a 12 fps burst mode. Image-related improvements include a 12.1 megapixel CMOS sensor, 25-600mm (24x) f/2.8-5.2 Leica lens with nano surface coating, faster autofocus, a new Venus Engine FHD Pro processor, and sensitivity up to ISO 3200. The FZ150 retains its predecessor's 3-inch LCD and 0.2-inch EVF -- both also present on the FZ47. There's also a new side-lever control, letting you adjust zoom and focus with secondary levers positioned just to the left of the lens. Panasonic's latest superzoom cam will ship in late September with a $500 sticker price. PR after the break.
PANASONIC EXPANDS POPULAR LUMIX FZ SERIES WITH PREMIUM 24X SUPER-ZOOM, 3D SHOOTING COMPACT DIGITAL CAMERA
New Panasonic LUMIX FZ150 Digital Camera Packs a Powerful 24x Optical Zoom in High-Quality 25mm Ultra Wide-Angle Leica Lens That Shoots Full HD Video
SECAUCUS, NJ (August 26, 2011) – Panasonic today introduces the newest addition to its super-zoom LUMIX FZ-Series digital cameras. The new LUMIX DMC-FZ150 is fully equipped with a 25mm ultra wide-angle LEICA DC VARIO-ELMARIT lens and a powerful 24x Optical Zoom (35mm camera equivalent: 25-600mm) available for shooting both stills and videos. Additionally, the LUMIX FZ150 has two of Panasonic's newest features – newly advanced Nano Surface Coating technology which helps minimize light reflection that causes ghost and flare – and the new 3D Photo Mode.
As the top-end model of LUMIX's popular FZ series, the FZ150 combines a new 12.1-megapixel MOS sensor and the renowned Venus Engine giving the camera high-performance image recording capability in both higher light sensitivity and speed. And as a step-up from the recently announced LUMIX FZ47's 1920 x 1080 60i video feature, the FZ150 realizes 1920 x 1080 60p Full-HD AVCHD Progressive (MPEG-4 / H.264) format. It is also possible to take still images while recording video simultaneously (3.5-megapixel) and the powerful 24x optical zoom is available in video recording. The FZ150 incorporates a stereo zoom microphone with a Wind Cut function, so that videos come with high-quality stereo sound through Dolby® Digital Stereo Creator.
"Panasonic continues to strive to meet the photography demands of its consumers by providing unique features and advanced technology in all our LUMIX digital cameras," said Darin Pepple, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. "With the 24x Optical Zoom and 3D shooting capabilities the FZ150 is a versatile, powerful camera that gives users endless options to take creative and high-quality images and videos."
The Light Speed AF of approx. 0.1 sec never misses fleeting photo opportunities. To encourage step-up users to enjoy shooting even more, full manual control is available with the FZ150. Users can enjoy image shooting while expressing their intention not only in photos but also in video, utilizing a host of options including the new Creative Control and Photo Style with a wide variety of preset options. The effective hand-shake correction system POWER O.I.S. now gains Active mode, which helps to record stable video even if shot while walking.
The LUMIX's popular iA (Intelligent Auto) Mode powerfully assists in any shooting situations to get the best results. Thanks to the Intelligent Resolution technology, Intelligent Zoom is available with the FZ150 extending the zoom ratio by approx. 1.3x, maintaining the picture quality while combining a digital zoom. This means the 24x optical zoom can virtually extend to a 32x equivalent. Not only drawing near the subject that is far away with its powerful optical zoom, the 25mm ultra wide angle lens captures approx.196% wider angle of view compared with a standard 35mm camera. This is helpful for shooting dynamic landscape or indoor group portrait.
The popular iA (Intelligent Auto) Mode is also available in video recording. The POWER O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer), Face Detection, Intelligent Scene Selector and Intelligent D-range Control also support shooting beautiful videos with ease. The Intelligent Scene Selector automatically switches between Normal, Portrait, Macro, Scenery, and Low Light modes according to the situation, to optimize visual quality. The Intelligent D-range Control makes images look more natural by preventing blocked shadows and blown highlights to optimize the exposure for each part of an image. It also ensures a beautiful reproduction of gradation and details.
A new 12-Megapixel High Sensibility MOS sensor pursuing Resolution, Sensitivity and Speed has been incorporated along with the renowned Venus Engine enabling the FZ150 to excel in image processing power. The combination of these powerful components results in the S/N ratio improvement by 3.9dB (ISO 100) to 4.7dB (ISO1600) compared with the predecessor – the FZ100. Newly developed Multi-process Noise Reduction applies optimum noise reduction according to the brightness of the part of the picture. Both high frequency noise that occurs in the dark part and low frequency noise in the light part are suppressed even in a picture. As a result, Images recorded in low-lit situations are now dramatically clear.
The Venus Engine has a quad-circuit system for processing large amount of progressive Full HD data at high speed. Not only 1920 x 1080 60p smooth Full-HD video recording, but also super fast consecutive shots at 12 fps (without auto focusing) and 5.5 fps (with auto focusing) in full resolution. It is also compatible with recording high-speed video at 220fps in QVGA. At the same time, the multi-task image-processing engine, the Venus Engine, realizes a super-fast response time. The auto focus gains approx. 50% faster speed compared with the FZ100, achieving Light Speed AF of approx. 0.1 second. The speed in AF Tracking also becomes faster, thanks to the improved tracking performance which doubles its sampling frequency.
The FZ150 provides the new Creative Control mode with a selection of artistic effect modes; Expressive, Retro, High Key, Sepia, High Dynamic, Miniature Effect, Film Grain and Pin Hole. In addition, Photo Style is newly added to the FZ150 for the expression of finer nuance. It has Standard, Vivid, Natural, Monochrome, Scenery, Portrait presets, while enabling finer adjustment of contrast, sharpness, saturation and noise reduction by each.
As a further step-up from the FZ47, the FZ150 is equipped with a hot shoe allowing attachment of various accessories including an optional stereo microphone (DMW-MS1) or an optional external flash (DMW-FL220 / FL360 / FL500). The FZ150 is also compatible with an optional remote shutter (DMW-RSL1) for advanced expression in photography.
The newly-added 3D Photo mode takes 20 panning shots and then the camera automatically selects the two most suitable images – one for the right eye and one for the left eye – to synthesize a 3D composite. The 3D image can then be viewed on any VIERA 3D HDTV. The format of 3D images is compatible with MPO which can be played back on other MPO-compatible equipment.
Other features of the Panasonic LUMIX FZ150 include:
• Motion Deblur Mode, which helps to prevent blur.
• Intelligent Handheld Nightshot Mode, which generates beautiful night scenery with illumination by layering multiple images shot consecutively.
• PHOTOfunSTUDIO 6.5 BD Edition Software makes it possible to sort and organize photos not only of those newly taken but also of those stored on the PC with quick start-up and fast read-in of images. Recorded videos can be edited with the Short Movie Story function and written into MPEG2 to burn onto a Blu-ray or DVD disc.
The Panasonic LUMIX FZ150 will be available in black for a suggested retail price of $499.99, starting in late-September 2011. For more information on Panasonic LUMIX digital cameras, please visit www.panasonic.com/lumix.
New Panasonic LUMIX FZ150 Digital Camera Packs a Powerful 24x Optical Zoom in High-Quality 25mm Ultra Wide-Angle Leica Lens That Shoots Full HD Video
SECAUCUS, NJ (August 26, 2011) – Panasonic today introduces the newest addition to its super-zoom LUMIX FZ-Series digital cameras. The new LUMIX DMC-FZ150 is fully equipped with a 25mm ultra wide-angle LEICA DC VARIO-ELMARIT lens and a powerful 24x Optical Zoom (35mm camera equivalent: 25-600mm) available for shooting both stills and videos. Additionally, the LUMIX FZ150 has two of Panasonic's newest features – newly advanced Nano Surface Coating technology which helps minimize light reflection that causes ghost and flare – and the new 3D Photo Mode.
As the top-end model of LUMIX's popular FZ series, the FZ150 combines a new 12.1-megapixel MOS sensor and the renowned Venus Engine giving the camera high-performance image recording capability in both higher light sensitivity and speed. And as a step-up from the recently announced LUMIX FZ47's 1920 x 1080 60i video feature, the FZ150 realizes 1920 x 1080 60p Full-HD AVCHD Progressive (MPEG-4 / H.264) format. It is also possible to take still images while recording video simultaneously (3.5-megapixel) and the powerful 24x optical zoom is available in video recording. The FZ150 incorporates a stereo zoom microphone with a Wind Cut function, so that videos come with high-quality stereo sound through Dolby® Digital Stereo Creator.
"Panasonic continues to strive to meet the photography demands of its consumers by providing unique features and advanced technology in all our LUMIX digital cameras," said Darin Pepple, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. "With the 24x Optical Zoom and 3D shooting capabilities the FZ150 is a versatile, powerful camera that gives users endless options to take creative and high-quality images and videos."
The Light Speed AF of approx. 0.1 sec never misses fleeting photo opportunities. To encourage step-up users to enjoy shooting even more, full manual control is available with the FZ150. Users can enjoy image shooting while expressing their intention not only in photos but also in video, utilizing a host of options including the new Creative Control and Photo Style with a wide variety of preset options. The effective hand-shake correction system POWER O.I.S. now gains Active mode, which helps to record stable video even if shot while walking.
The LUMIX's popular iA (Intelligent Auto) Mode powerfully assists in any shooting situations to get the best results. Thanks to the Intelligent Resolution technology, Intelligent Zoom is available with the FZ150 extending the zoom ratio by approx. 1.3x, maintaining the picture quality while combining a digital zoom. This means the 24x optical zoom can virtually extend to a 32x equivalent. Not only drawing near the subject that is far away with its powerful optical zoom, the 25mm ultra wide angle lens captures approx.196% wider angle of view compared with a standard 35mm camera. This is helpful for shooting dynamic landscape or indoor group portrait.
The popular iA (Intelligent Auto) Mode is also available in video recording. The POWER O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer), Face Detection, Intelligent Scene Selector and Intelligent D-range Control also support shooting beautiful videos with ease. The Intelligent Scene Selector automatically switches between Normal, Portrait, Macro, Scenery, and Low Light modes according to the situation, to optimize visual quality. The Intelligent D-range Control makes images look more natural by preventing blocked shadows and blown highlights to optimize the exposure for each part of an image. It also ensures a beautiful reproduction of gradation and details.
A new 12-Megapixel High Sensibility MOS sensor pursuing Resolution, Sensitivity and Speed has been incorporated along with the renowned Venus Engine enabling the FZ150 to excel in image processing power. The combination of these powerful components results in the S/N ratio improvement by 3.9dB (ISO 100) to 4.7dB (ISO1600) compared with the predecessor – the FZ100. Newly developed Multi-process Noise Reduction applies optimum noise reduction according to the brightness of the part of the picture. Both high frequency noise that occurs in the dark part and low frequency noise in the light part are suppressed even in a picture. As a result, Images recorded in low-lit situations are now dramatically clear.
The Venus Engine has a quad-circuit system for processing large amount of progressive Full HD data at high speed. Not only 1920 x 1080 60p smooth Full-HD video recording, but also super fast consecutive shots at 12 fps (without auto focusing) and 5.5 fps (with auto focusing) in full resolution. It is also compatible with recording high-speed video at 220fps in QVGA. At the same time, the multi-task image-processing engine, the Venus Engine, realizes a super-fast response time. The auto focus gains approx. 50% faster speed compared with the FZ100, achieving Light Speed AF of approx. 0.1 second. The speed in AF Tracking also becomes faster, thanks to the improved tracking performance which doubles its sampling frequency.
The FZ150 provides the new Creative Control mode with a selection of artistic effect modes; Expressive, Retro, High Key, Sepia, High Dynamic, Miniature Effect, Film Grain and Pin Hole. In addition, Photo Style is newly added to the FZ150 for the expression of finer nuance. It has Standard, Vivid, Natural, Monochrome, Scenery, Portrait presets, while enabling finer adjustment of contrast, sharpness, saturation and noise reduction by each.
As a further step-up from the FZ47, the FZ150 is equipped with a hot shoe allowing attachment of various accessories including an optional stereo microphone (DMW-MS1) or an optional external flash (DMW-FL220 / FL360 / FL500). The FZ150 is also compatible with an optional remote shutter (DMW-RSL1) for advanced expression in photography.
The newly-added 3D Photo mode takes 20 panning shots and then the camera automatically selects the two most suitable images – one for the right eye and one for the left eye – to synthesize a 3D composite. The 3D image can then be viewed on any VIERA 3D HDTV. The format of 3D images is compatible with MPO which can be played back on other MPO-compatible equipment.
Other features of the Panasonic LUMIX FZ150 include:
• Motion Deblur Mode, which helps to prevent blur.
• Intelligent Handheld Nightshot Mode, which generates beautiful night scenery with illumination by layering multiple images shot consecutively.
• PHOTOfunSTUDIO 6.5 BD Edition Software makes it possible to sort and organize photos not only of those newly taken but also of those stored on the PC with quick start-up and fast read-in of images. Recorded videos can be edited with the Short Movie Story function and written into MPEG2 to burn onto a Blu-ray or DVD disc.
The Panasonic LUMIX FZ150 will be available in black for a suggested retail price of $499.99, starting in late-September 2011. For more information on Panasonic LUMIX digital cameras, please visit www.panasonic.com/lumix.
Xbox 360's ESPN3 app updated with more voice control, split screen and more
Posted: 25 Aug 2011 08:12 PM PDT
New ESPN on Xbox LIVE Update Gives Fans the Ultimate Sports Viewing Experience
Posted by Kristie Chong-Adler • August 25, 2011 • Printer-friendly
To Tweet this release – http://es.pn/EXBL3
Updating today and in time for the start of college football season, the new ESPN on Xbox LIVE delivers the ultimate sports viewing experience for fans. A newly redesigned user interface coupled with brand new personalization features, tools and more gives fans access to thousands of live events and highlights, including more than 400 college football games, 31 bowl games and more than 75 exclusive games – close to 50 in the first five weeks of the season alone – from ESPN3.com, including some of the biggest out-of-market showdowns. To view an intro video from SportsNation's Colin Cowherd and Michelle Beadle, click HERE. For screenshots of the new service, click HERE.
New features launching with today's update include:
My Sports – allows fans to choose their favorite sports and teams and designate them as "My Sports," giving fans a quick way to jump directly into the games and content most important to them. Additionally, it will automatically provide a personalized daily feed of news and highlights based on "My Sports."
Mini Guide – gives fans a preview and quick access to all the personalized sports content right at the bottom of the screen, including live events and highlights.
Split Screen – lets fans watch two events at once. Watch ESPN3.com live events on both screens or a live event on one while catching up on ESPN.com news and highlights on the other. Both screens can even be controlled independently with pausing and rewinding.
Voice Control with Kinect™ – allows fans to navigate through the Content Guide, skip to the next highlight, or play, pause, and rewind a big play all through voice control.
College Football Scoreboard – gives fans easy access to live college football scores at any time. Split Screen allows fans to watch the big game on one side while the live scoreboard occupies the other.
Reminders – lets fans tag games and set reminders so they never miss a moment.
Live Alerts – are located at the bottom of the screen and keeps fans posted on score changes from around college football.
ESPN BottomLine –keeps fans in the know with breaking news and score updates from around the world of sports.
Beyond college football, ESPN on Xbox LIVE delivers HD-quality live events and highlights from college basketball, NBA, MLB, international soccer, golf, tennis, cricket and much more. The service is available at no additional cost to Xbox LIVE Gold subscribers who are customers of an affiliated service provider. For a full schedule of upcoming college football games live on ESPN3.com, click HERE.
ESPN3.com is ESPN's live multi-screen sports network that gives fans a 24/7 destination delivering thousands of live, global sports events annually. It is available in nearly 70 million homes at no additional cost to fans who receive their high-speed Internet connection or video subscription from an affiliated service provider. It is also available at no cost to approximately 21 million U.S. college students and U.S.-based military personnel via computers connected to on-campus educational networks and on-base military networks.
Posted by Kristie Chong-Adler • August 25, 2011 • Printer-friendly
To Tweet this release – http://es.pn/EXBL3
Updating today and in time for the start of college football season, the new ESPN on Xbox LIVE delivers the ultimate sports viewing experience for fans. A newly redesigned user interface coupled with brand new personalization features, tools and more gives fans access to thousands of live events and highlights, including more than 400 college football games, 31 bowl games and more than 75 exclusive games – close to 50 in the first five weeks of the season alone – from ESPN3.com, including some of the biggest out-of-market showdowns. To view an intro video from SportsNation's Colin Cowherd and Michelle Beadle, click HERE. For screenshots of the new service, click HERE.
New features launching with today's update include:
My Sports – allows fans to choose their favorite sports and teams and designate them as "My Sports," giving fans a quick way to jump directly into the games and content most important to them. Additionally, it will automatically provide a personalized daily feed of news and highlights based on "My Sports."
Mini Guide – gives fans a preview and quick access to all the personalized sports content right at the bottom of the screen, including live events and highlights.
Split Screen – lets fans watch two events at once. Watch ESPN3.com live events on both screens or a live event on one while catching up on ESPN.com news and highlights on the other. Both screens can even be controlled independently with pausing and rewinding.
Voice Control with Kinect™ – allows fans to navigate through the Content Guide, skip to the next highlight, or play, pause, and rewind a big play all through voice control.
College Football Scoreboard – gives fans easy access to live college football scores at any time. Split Screen allows fans to watch the big game on one side while the live scoreboard occupies the other.
Reminders – lets fans tag games and set reminders so they never miss a moment.
Live Alerts – are located at the bottom of the screen and keeps fans posted on score changes from around college football.
ESPN BottomLine –keeps fans in the know with breaking news and score updates from around the world of sports.
Beyond college football, ESPN on Xbox LIVE delivers HD-quality live events and highlights from college basketball, NBA, MLB, international soccer, golf, tennis, cricket and much more. The service is available at no additional cost to Xbox LIVE Gold subscribers who are customers of an affiliated service provider. For a full schedule of upcoming college football games live on ESPN3.com, click HERE.
ESPN3.com is ESPN's live multi-screen sports network that gives fans a 24/7 destination delivering thousands of live, global sports events annually. It is available in nearly 70 million homes at no additional cost to fans who receive their high-speed Internet connection or video subscription from an affiliated service provider. It is also available at no cost to approximately 21 million U.S. college students and U.S.-based military personnel via computers connected to on-campus educational networks and on-base military networks.
playGo USB does wireless audio slightly cheaper than a Sonos
Posted: 25 Aug 2011 06:38 PM PDT
Audiophiles wanting to wirelessly liberate their music from desktop speakers have a tough choice -- buy a $99 Airport Express, which uses a less-than-ideal 3.5mm line-out jack, or spend big on a Sonos. Bicom's playGo USB is the new cord cutting kid on the block, and it's aiming for the middle slice of that market. For $450 you get a transmission unit which connects via microUSB to your computer and a receiver that connects to your HiFi with RCA or Optical cables. Song streaming couldn't be easier, the two have a range of 75 feet and pair up automatically over the 2.4 GHz band to send 24-bit sound to your beloved home audio kit. To stand out from the crowd, the playGo is hewn from Corian (yes, the stuff used for kitchen counter tops) and has a layer of LEDs to add some color to your musical experience. It's currently on sale for $400, but let's be honest -- you can't put a price on freedom from wires, can you?
Update: The Airport Express' line-out port is a hybrid -- capable of using analog or optical cables.
[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]
Update: The Airport Express' line-out port is a hybrid -- capable of using analog or optical cables.
[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]
Traktor Kontrol S2 digital DJ system shaves a few inches and bones off its big brother
Posted: 25 Aug 2011 05:16 PM PDT
Native Instruments Announces TRAKTOR KONTROL S2
DJ System
New "2+1" DJ system based on TRAKTOR PRO 2 provides the professional qualities of KONTROL S4 in a compact two-deck format
Berlin, August 25th, 2011 – Native Instruments today announced TRAKTOR KONTROL S2, a versatile integrated DJ performance system that was designed to set a new professional standard in the two-deck category. Based on a compact version of the market-leading KONTROL S4 hardware, the KONTROL S2 provides a "2+1" setup with sample decks as well as comprehensive mixing and effect features, all based on the included full-featured TRAKTOR PRO 2 software.
To offer DJs a more portable alternative to the professional 4-deck TRAKTOR KONTROL S4 system, the KONTROL S2 is centered around a new compact controller hardware. It provides the same patent-pending high-resolution jog wheels, combined with ergonomic controls for cueing, looping and effects. The integrated 24bit/96 kHz sound card with its dual stereo outputs is based on the award-winning technology of the TRAKTOR audio interface range, and provides the same acclaimed sound quality with its supreme clarity and especially high output volume.
The two full-featured playback decks of the TRAKTOR KONTROL S2 are complemented by the versatile Sample Decks of the latest TRAKTOR PRO 2 software, which can add up to eight simultaneous one-shot samples or beat-synced loops to the mix. This effectively equips the KONTROL S2 system with a third channel that opens up a wide range of additional creative performance techniques beyond the typical two-deck paradigm in its product category.
TRAKTOR KONTROL 2 benefits from the same seamless bi-directional software-hardware integration as the KONTROL S4, featuring convenient plug&play configuration, dynamically backlit control elements and the high-resolution NHL protocol, for maximum efficiency both during the setup and the actual DJ performance.
Pricing and availability
TRAKTOR KONTROL S2 will be available in October for a suggested retail price of $669 / 599 EUR.
Further product information and press material
Additional information on TRAKTOR KONTROL S2 is available at www.native-instruments.com/s2
A digital press kit including picture material is available at www.native-instruments.com/press.info
DJ System
New "2+1" DJ system based on TRAKTOR PRO 2 provides the professional qualities of KONTROL S4 in a compact two-deck format
Berlin, August 25th, 2011 – Native Instruments today announced TRAKTOR KONTROL S2, a versatile integrated DJ performance system that was designed to set a new professional standard in the two-deck category. Based on a compact version of the market-leading KONTROL S4 hardware, the KONTROL S2 provides a "2+1" setup with sample decks as well as comprehensive mixing and effect features, all based on the included full-featured TRAKTOR PRO 2 software.
To offer DJs a more portable alternative to the professional 4-deck TRAKTOR KONTROL S4 system, the KONTROL S2 is centered around a new compact controller hardware. It provides the same patent-pending high-resolution jog wheels, combined with ergonomic controls for cueing, looping and effects. The integrated 24bit/96 kHz sound card with its dual stereo outputs is based on the award-winning technology of the TRAKTOR audio interface range, and provides the same acclaimed sound quality with its supreme clarity and especially high output volume.
The two full-featured playback decks of the TRAKTOR KONTROL S2 are complemented by the versatile Sample Decks of the latest TRAKTOR PRO 2 software, which can add up to eight simultaneous one-shot samples or beat-synced loops to the mix. This effectively equips the KONTROL S2 system with a third channel that opens up a wide range of additional creative performance techniques beyond the typical two-deck paradigm in its product category.
TRAKTOR KONTROL 2 benefits from the same seamless bi-directional software-hardware integration as the KONTROL S4, featuring convenient plug&play configuration, dynamically backlit control elements and the high-resolution NHL protocol, for maximum efficiency both during the setup and the actual DJ performance.
Pricing and availability
TRAKTOR KONTROL S2 will be available in October for a suggested retail price of $669 / 599 EUR.
Further product information and press material
Additional information on TRAKTOR KONTROL S2 is available at www.native-instruments.com/s2
A digital press kit including picture material is available at www.native-instruments.com/press.info
HTC Omega blessed with renders, revealing its front-facing camera
Posted: 25 Aug 2011 04:24 PM PDT
HTC's decided to throw a similar get-together to rival the kickin' shindig we had tonight, which hopefully means the company will show off the latest and greatest phones soon to grace its lineup. One such phone that's been seeing a lot of talk lately is the Omega, rumored to be one of Peter Chou's upcoming Windows Phones. Unfortunately, it's just been a faceless name on paper -- until now. Pocketnow got its hands on a rather well-detailed render of the Mango device, which shows off HTC's traditional two-toned design (this time in white and gray) and a front-facing camera. While the latter feature isn't new to the industry by any stretch of the imagination, it backs up Microsoft's confirmation Wednesday that Mango will indeed support it. Anyone up for some sweet Skype video calling?
Live from the Engadget reader meetup in NYC
Posted: 25 Aug 2011 03:30 PM PDT
6:38PM And the doors are open!
6:37PM Calm before the storm...
6:12PM Doors are opening soon!
6:11PM It's Victor and Dave from TUAW!
6:10PM Here's a quick preview of the space...
6:08PM And we're here! Readers are lined up down the block. The rest of you are on your way, right?
Are you in New York City? We sure are, and we want you to join us! Right now! We'll be at Guastavino's, located just under the Queensboro Bridge at 59th Street in Manhattan, until 10:30pm. Plenty of Engadget editors are on hand, along with our friends from Joystiq and TUAW, so be sure to swing on by if you're in the neighborhood. We're walking around with the latest gadgets, and may even have some for you to take home. Can't make it to the party? We have our cameras and laptops in tow, and we'll be adding photos and text throughout the night. Jump past the break to join in on the fun!
Olympus PEN E-PM1 Mini gets a $500 price tag, September release date
Posted: 25 Aug 2011 02:58 PM PDT
Remember that cute little Micro Four Thirds camera that Olympus unveiled in June? Well, we just got word that the PEN E-PM1 Mini will ship next month, with an equally petite $500 price tag -- including a 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 kit lens. The company is positioning the 12.3 megapixel camera as an upgrade for point-and-shoot users, as "the easiest PEN to use," thanks to a new, simpler user interface and 23 Scene-Select modes. Still, the E-PM1 is a very capable interchangeable lens camera (ILC), and includes a 3-inch 460k-dot LCD, 1080i HD video capture, RAW shooting and a maximum sensitivity of ISO 12,800, along with Manual, Aperture Priority, and Shutter Priority shooting modes. The Mini will be available in purple, pink, brown, white, silver, and black -- our color of choice. Jump past the break for the full scoop from Olympus.
The World'S Smallest Olympus PEN Is Also The Most Affordable: The PEN E-PM1 Packs Mega Power In A Micro Body For Under $500
Small, Easy and Stylish Compact System Camera Ships in September and Fulfills the Promise of a Camera with Impressive DSLR Image Quality and HD Video in a Mini Camera Body
CENTER VALLEY, Pa., August 25, 2011 – The wait is over! Starting next month, the smallest, lightest, and the most portable Olympus PEN camera – the PEN E-PM1 – will be available at the affordable price of $499.99. The Olympus "PEN Mini" comes in six stylish colors (purple, pink, brown, white, silver and black) to suit your personal style. The PEN E-PM1 packs a powerful punch with the same amazing image quality, lightning-fast speed, and 1080i high-definition (HD) video offered by the recently introduced PEN E-P3 and PEN E-PL3.
The "PEN Mini" is also the easiest PEN to use, with simple controls that enable you to effortlessly access the power of digital photography. A step up from a point- and- shoot camera, the Olympus PEN E-PM1 features a new user interface that takes the guesswork out of capturing the perfect shot. A simple one-touch button enables you shoot HD video. iAuto and scene select modes enable you capture images with ease and speed, and six built-in Art Filters enable you explore your artistic side. The Olympus PEN E-PM1 puts the portability of a point-and-shoot with the performance of a DSLR in the palm of your hands.
"The Olympus PEN E-PM1 is the ideal camera for those interested in DSLR quality in a compact camera design. It's fun to use, super powerful, and its small size means it's the 'goes anywhere you go' PEN camera," said Katie Roseman, senior product manager, Olympus Imaging America Inc. "Whether you're recording your child blowing out the candles on a birthday cake, capturing an elaborate candle-lit table setting at your favorite restaurant or chronicling a vacation, you will never worry about missing a fun or spontaneous moment with the PEN Mini by your side."
EASE OF USE
Operating the "PEN Mini" is more intuitive with the newly-designed user interface. Popular menu options such as Art Filters, iAuto, Scene Modes, and Movie are immediately available for your selection. On-screen graphics are easy to read on the 3" LCD and even include a handy pop-up guide to help you understand every setting. The Olympus PEN E-PM1's Live Guide system allows you to preview effects as you adjust them before the image is even captured. iAuto mode automatically identifies the scene you're shooting; portrait, landscape, night portrait, macro, or sport and adjusts the settings to optimize results. Choose from 23 Scene-Select modes, including the new 3D mode, Fireworks, Sunset, Children, Macro and Panorama, and more that cover almost any shooting situation. The camera's three-inch widescreen 460-dot high-resolution LCD is so big and bright it enables you shoot and share photos and HD videos with ease.
PROFESSIONAL IMAGE QUALITY
The new 12.3 megapixel sensor is the same size as those used in pro quality DSLRs. Olympus' in-body image stabilization technology makes it possible to use any compatible lens from wide-angle to telephoto, for perfectly clear, crisp photos no matter what the shooting situation, even in low light. New Face Detection Auto Focus adjusts focus automatically on the subject's eyes for the best shot every time. You no longer need to worry about subjects appearing too dark against a light background with the PEN E-PM1's Advanced Shadow Adjustment Technology.
CREATIVE FREEDOM
Shoot up to 29 minutes of full 1080i HD video with Dolby Digital stereo sound using the direct HD Movie Button. Add more flair to your photos and videos with six in-camera Art Filters (Pop Art, Soft Focus, Grainy Film, Pin Hole, Diorama and Dramatic Tone). Every Art Filter can be used in all shooting modes, including HD movie mode. Art Filters can achieve dramatic results on the go without the need for a computer or editing software, so you can spend more time shooting and less time computing. A variety of interchangeable lenses, accessories and flashes are compatible with the Olympus PEN E-PM1 to support all different photography needs. High-precision engineering and an improved internal focusing mechanism have enabled the Olympus MSC (Movie+Still Compatible) lenses to autofocus quickly, smoothly and silently; perfect for stills and HD movies in stereo with amazing clarity. In any mode, from close up to landscape, 3D technology brings your images to another dimension. The 3D data is processed in-camera for easy display on 3D televisions or laptops.
LOW-LIGHT PERFORMANCE
Capture the life of the party with the PEN E-PM1's super luminosity AF Illuminator LED beam, which allows the camera to focus faster in low-light. Stunning night-time photos are a click away with a maximum sensitivity of 12,800 ISO. Additionally, the "PEN Mini" provides the flexibility of an optional slide-on flash included with camera.
BLAZING SPEED
The Olympus PEN E-PM1 offers fast sequential shooting, enabling you to take up to five photos per second. Capture that perfect shot, even when your subject is moving. The new FAST (Frequency Acceleration Sensor Technology) AF System is able to focus at an incredible speed and offers 35 separate focus areas that are spread over nearly the entire sensor, which makes it possible for pin-point accurate focusing on small subjects wherever they appear in the frame. The TruePic VI image processor has been designed specifically for the Olympus PEN series, with two (dual core) processing engines for superb color and clarity.
AVAILABILITY
The Olympus PEN E-PM1 kit will be available starting in September 2011. The kit includes the PEN E-PM1 body, MSC M.ZUIKO DIGITAL 14-42mm, FL-LM1 Flash, USB cable, video cable, BLS-1 Li-Ion battery pack, Li-Ion battery charger, shoulder strap, OLYMPUS [ib] software CD-ROM, manuals and registration card.
U.S. PRICING / PRODUCT CONFIGURATIONS
Olympus PEN E-PM1 Body with MSC M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED m14-42mm II R f3.5/5.6 Zoom Street Price: $499.99
Journalists interested in more information, review units and high-resolution images of the Olympus PEN cameras and PEN lenses and accessories should contact Keith Gordon, Mullen Public Relations, 212-885-3218, keith.gordon@mullen.com, or Jennifer Colucci, Olympus Imaging America Inc., 484-896-5719, jennifer.colucci@olympus.com, or visit the Olympus website: http://www.getolympus.com.
Small, Easy and Stylish Compact System Camera Ships in September and Fulfills the Promise of a Camera with Impressive DSLR Image Quality and HD Video in a Mini Camera Body
CENTER VALLEY, Pa., August 25, 2011 – The wait is over! Starting next month, the smallest, lightest, and the most portable Olympus PEN camera – the PEN E-PM1 – will be available at the affordable price of $499.99. The Olympus "PEN Mini" comes in six stylish colors (purple, pink, brown, white, silver and black) to suit your personal style. The PEN E-PM1 packs a powerful punch with the same amazing image quality, lightning-fast speed, and 1080i high-definition (HD) video offered by the recently introduced PEN E-P3 and PEN E-PL3.
The "PEN Mini" is also the easiest PEN to use, with simple controls that enable you to effortlessly access the power of digital photography. A step up from a point- and- shoot camera, the Olympus PEN E-PM1 features a new user interface that takes the guesswork out of capturing the perfect shot. A simple one-touch button enables you shoot HD video. iAuto and scene select modes enable you capture images with ease and speed, and six built-in Art Filters enable you explore your artistic side. The Olympus PEN E-PM1 puts the portability of a point-and-shoot with the performance of a DSLR in the palm of your hands.
"The Olympus PEN E-PM1 is the ideal camera for those interested in DSLR quality in a compact camera design. It's fun to use, super powerful, and its small size means it's the 'goes anywhere you go' PEN camera," said Katie Roseman, senior product manager, Olympus Imaging America Inc. "Whether you're recording your child blowing out the candles on a birthday cake, capturing an elaborate candle-lit table setting at your favorite restaurant or chronicling a vacation, you will never worry about missing a fun or spontaneous moment with the PEN Mini by your side."
EASE OF USE
Operating the "PEN Mini" is more intuitive with the newly-designed user interface. Popular menu options such as Art Filters, iAuto, Scene Modes, and Movie are immediately available for your selection. On-screen graphics are easy to read on the 3" LCD and even include a handy pop-up guide to help you understand every setting. The Olympus PEN E-PM1's Live Guide system allows you to preview effects as you adjust them before the image is even captured. iAuto mode automatically identifies the scene you're shooting; portrait, landscape, night portrait, macro, or sport and adjusts the settings to optimize results. Choose from 23 Scene-Select modes, including the new 3D mode, Fireworks, Sunset, Children, Macro and Panorama, and more that cover almost any shooting situation. The camera's three-inch widescreen 460-dot high-resolution LCD is so big and bright it enables you shoot and share photos and HD videos with ease.
PROFESSIONAL IMAGE QUALITY
The new 12.3 megapixel sensor is the same size as those used in pro quality DSLRs. Olympus' in-body image stabilization technology makes it possible to use any compatible lens from wide-angle to telephoto, for perfectly clear, crisp photos no matter what the shooting situation, even in low light. New Face Detection Auto Focus adjusts focus automatically on the subject's eyes for the best shot every time. You no longer need to worry about subjects appearing too dark against a light background with the PEN E-PM1's Advanced Shadow Adjustment Technology.
CREATIVE FREEDOM
Shoot up to 29 minutes of full 1080i HD video with Dolby Digital stereo sound using the direct HD Movie Button. Add more flair to your photos and videos with six in-camera Art Filters (Pop Art, Soft Focus, Grainy Film, Pin Hole, Diorama and Dramatic Tone). Every Art Filter can be used in all shooting modes, including HD movie mode. Art Filters can achieve dramatic results on the go without the need for a computer or editing software, so you can spend more time shooting and less time computing. A variety of interchangeable lenses, accessories and flashes are compatible with the Olympus PEN E-PM1 to support all different photography needs. High-precision engineering and an improved internal focusing mechanism have enabled the Olympus MSC (Movie+Still Compatible) lenses to autofocus quickly, smoothly and silently; perfect for stills and HD movies in stereo with amazing clarity. In any mode, from close up to landscape, 3D technology brings your images to another dimension. The 3D data is processed in-camera for easy display on 3D televisions or laptops.
LOW-LIGHT PERFORMANCE
Capture the life of the party with the PEN E-PM1's super luminosity AF Illuminator LED beam, which allows the camera to focus faster in low-light. Stunning night-time photos are a click away with a maximum sensitivity of 12,800 ISO. Additionally, the "PEN Mini" provides the flexibility of an optional slide-on flash included with camera.
BLAZING SPEED
The Olympus PEN E-PM1 offers fast sequential shooting, enabling you to take up to five photos per second. Capture that perfect shot, even when your subject is moving. The new FAST (Frequency Acceleration Sensor Technology) AF System is able to focus at an incredible speed and offers 35 separate focus areas that are spread over nearly the entire sensor, which makes it possible for pin-point accurate focusing on small subjects wherever they appear in the frame. The TruePic VI image processor has been designed specifically for the Olympus PEN series, with two (dual core) processing engines for superb color and clarity.
AVAILABILITY
The Olympus PEN E-PM1 kit will be available starting in September 2011. The kit includes the PEN E-PM1 body, MSC M.ZUIKO DIGITAL 14-42mm, FL-LM1 Flash, USB cable, video cable, BLS-1 Li-Ion battery pack, Li-Ion battery charger, shoulder strap, OLYMPUS [ib] software CD-ROM, manuals and registration card.
U.S. PRICING / PRODUCT CONFIGURATIONS
Olympus PEN E-PM1 Body with MSC M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED m14-42mm II R f3.5/5.6 Zoom Street Price: $499.99
Journalists interested in more information, review units and high-resolution images of the Olympus PEN cameras and PEN lenses and accessories should contact Keith Gordon, Mullen Public Relations, 212-885-3218, keith.gordon@mullen.com, or Jennifer Colucci, Olympus Imaging America Inc., 484-896-5719, jennifer.colucci@olympus.com, or visit the Olympus website: http://www.getolympus.com.
Personal subtitle glasses from Sony may get trial run in UK next year
Posted: 25 Aug 2011 02:30 PM PDT
Fossil's Meta Watch passes the FCC, your magic wristwatch fantasies are about to come true
Posted: 25 Aug 2011 02:03 PM PDT
Fossil's Meta Watch has been beset with delays and defective parts but finally there's good news -- the watches have passed the FCC. The two models (analog and digital) can sync with your Android smartphone or tablet via a Texas Instruments CC2560 Bluetooth controller and are being sold as a "development platform" until enough apps are built to take advantage of the technology. T.I.'s website lists the watches as being available since August 22nd, although we're not entirely sure what to make of that -- it still looks like a pre-order situation to us. In any case, the devices should hopefully start reaching app developers pretty soon. Hey, how about using the internal gyroscopes to bring some genuine wrist-flapping action to Angry Birds?
Update: TI's website is now listing the watch with a September 29th availability date.
[Thanks, Imdad]
Update: TI's website is now listing the watch with a September 29th availability date.
[Thanks, Imdad]
HTC Sense 3.5 beta screenshots leak, bring tears of joy to weather widget lovers
Posted: 25 Aug 2011 01:44 PM PDT
Now that you've seen high-quality images of the HTC Bliss with the screen turned off, are you curious to see what it looks like when it's on? The same folks at XDA.cn who got hands-on time with the Bliss have now come forth with possible screenshots showing the phone is indeed running on a beta version of Sense UI 3.5. What's new here? Even though the lock screen uses the same ring-style unlocking feature as its predecessor, it appears that the new UI will feature two dedicated buttons at the bottom of the home panel -- for the app tray on the left and phone on the right -- and refreshed widgets (including a larger weather panel), among other minor changes. Word also has it that HTC is removing hardware requirements that restricted version 3.0 to the company's highest-end devices, which gives hope to millions of Sense users still on an older, more streamlined UI. More screenshots can be found at the source link.
Samsung's IFA app unveils Galaxy Tab 7.7, Wave 3 and Galaxy Note
Posted: 25 Aug 2011 01:12 PM PDT
Posted: 25 Aug 2011 12:30 PM PDT
Design
There's no doubt that this thing's mighty compact for what it does. One of biggest gripes about the HD170 was its girth, and Drift's obviously gone to great lengths in order to trim this fellow down. Hardware-wise, the unit feels sturdy enough, and the twistable lens does a phenomenal job of holding tight once put into place, but we couldn't help but feel that a few corners were cut. The embedded 1.5-inch LCD, while mightily appreciated, is of fairly poor quality; it serves to showcase what you're viewing, and the top / bottom bars inform you of the current settings, but we found it rather difficult to see under direct sunlight.
The back panel is covered by one of two lids, both of which are included. The first is a solid covering that serves to seal out dust, dirt and just about anything else you could think of; the second has two covered ports that can be popped open for easy access to the microphone input jack (3.5mm) and the mini-USB socket. That's decidedly useful for those who have a mini-USB charger in the vehicle with 'em, as it allows the camera to be tethered to a constant source of energy rather than having to run off of batteries alone. Careful when tightening either on, though -- we had to break out a pair of pliers at one point to get it open after over tightening with our Sasquatch-like paws.
There's also a micro-HDMI port back there, with the only other input mechanisms being just beside the LCD: up, down, menu and play / stop. Overall, the 104.14 mm (L) x 50 (D) x 33 (W) mm device felt like a semi-serious piece, but for $369, we expected a far more premium fit and finish. At just 4.23 ounces, it's not exactly a heavyweight, but after you strap on a helmet mount (or one of the other sticky solutions included in the box), it's not something that'll easily slip into one's pocket.
Software and usability
There's just no two ways about it: the user interface here is spartan, and if we're being candid, it's fairly unsightly. Of course, it's not like you'll be spending hours on end digging through the interface options, but we will confess that it's not the most intuitive thing to use; granted, having only four buttons doesn't do Drift any favors, but a little polish over on the software side would've gone a long way. Boot-up was respectably quick -- the camera could go from off to shooting in under five seconds. We noticed that the "beep" sounds emitted when recording was started and stopped were around two seconds too late, but it's a quirk we learned to live with in time.
For our purposes, we shoved a 16GB microSDHC card in and left it on 1080p. After all, if you're shelling out $369, you'll probably be after the finest resolution possible. The bundled remote (which can be worn on the wrist) worked on the first try around 70 percent of the time, and while Drift claims a five meter range, we found it far more useful when we were within three meters of the device. Just so you know, the camera stores each clip on the card in a standard .MOV format, making it dead-simple to import into just about any movie editor known to man. Windows users can simply connect a mini-USB cable to export files, while OS X loyalists will want to have a card reader nearby.
The assortment of mounts (helmet, curved sticky and flat sticky) thrown in were quite useful, and the fact that the battery can be recharged via a mini-USB port warmed our ever-loving hearts. One less charger in the travel bag is never a bad thing. Speaking of battery life, we routinely saw our unit record around 50 to 80 minutes of 1080p footage on a full charge, largely depending on how much idle time we had between each clip.
Video quality
So, here's the make-it-or-break-it moment. For all intents and purposes, the video and audio quality is about the same as what we saw on the HD170. In other words, the built-in microphone is still next to useless. When mounted on our dashboard, the mic wouldn't pick up our voices just a few feet away; meanwhile, our Olympus E-P3 heard us loud and clear when recording in the same position. We suspect the internal mic is there mostly to suck in engine and road noises, but those planning to do a little commentary should reconsider.Video quality was... decent. We had continual problems with exposure on exceedingly bright days, where the piercing sun would result in a shot that was simply blown out. In the shadows, things were far more palatable, but it's definitely a hit-or-miss affair. We will confess, however, that the infamous "jelly effect" was nowhere to be found here. Have a peek below at a few videos we tossed together during our time with the unit.
Music credit: Copeland | "Love Is A Fast Song" | In Motion
Wrap-up
While compact and reliable, the Drift HD's primary problem has nothing to do with hardware, size or results. It's the price. The bloated $369 MSRP sticks out like a sore thumb, and with even the priciest GoPro going for just $299, we can't find a compelling reason to recommend this guy over the less expensive competition. Video quality simply wasn't world-beating, and when you're commanding a premium, it ought to be. If the company threw in a waterproof shell, a more polished / rugged exterior and a 16GB microSDHC card, we might be singing a slightly different tune, but until this guy starts offering itself for less, we'd probably survey the (more affordable) competition.Sony Ericsson updates Xperia line with the latest Gingerbread goods
Posted: 25 Aug 2011 12:08 PM PDT
25 August 2011
Sony Ericsson boosts 2011 Xperia™ family with new experiences and new software
2011 Xperia™ range to be upgraded to Android Gingerbread platform version 2.3.4
Enhanced Facebook inside Xperia™ functionality
Introducing Xperia™ neo V Android smartphone with the best of entertainment technologies from Sony and Google
25 August 2011, London, UK – Sony Ericsson today announced new functionality and features to its 2011 Xperia™ smartphone range with a comprehensive software upgrade from October 2011. Consumers with 2011 Xperia™ smartphones will benefit from improvements to Sony Ericsson's unique Facebook inside Xperia™ offering and 3D camera functionality from Sony. The upgrade also allows consumers to enjoy the full benefits of the Android Gingerbread platform including Google Talk with Video Chat.
Sony Ericsson's unique social experience provided by Facebook inside Xperia™ has been super-charged enabling Xperia users to like, share and discover on Facebook in a faster, easier and more intuitive way. The new functionality aims to make entertainment more social by giving users the ability to share and discover apps and games with friends through Facebook.
The latest camera enhancements from Sony introduce 3D sweep panorama technology so that images can be captured and then viewed in 3D by connecting the phone to a 3D TV using the HDMI output.
"With this software upgrade, we are bringing a wealth of new and really entertaining experiences to all our 2011 Xperia™ smartphones, including those already in consumers' hands today,"said Nikolaus Scheurer, Head of Product Marketing at Sony Ericsson. "Our users will get to enjoy new features from Google, an even richer Facebook integration, and enhanced camera functionality from Sony."
Xperia™ neo V is one of the first new products to launch with the new software and will include all the features like Google Talk with Video Chat, 3D sweep panorama and enhanced Facebook inside Xperia™ functionality. Building on the success of the original Xperia™ neo launched earlier this year, Xperia™ neo V takes the latest Android software for smartphones and the best of Sony entertainment experiences, including Reality Display with Mobile BRAVIA® Engine, to even more markets. Sony Ericsson Xperia™ neo V will be available globally in select markets from Q4 2011.
The software upgrade will be available in select markets through a phased roll out starting from October 2011. Xperia™ owners will receive a notification instructing them to instantaneously download the software over the air via 3G or WiFi. Alternatively, they will have the option to connect to a computer and download it via PC companion.
Upgrade at a glance:
Xperia™ smartphones to be upgraded to the 2.3.4 version of the Gingerbread platform with new features including Google Talk with Video Chat for smartphones with front-facing cameras
Updated Facebook inside Xperia™ functionality for enhanced like, share and discover abilities
Xperia™ smartphones introducing world's first 3D sweep panorama functionality powered by Sony.
The software upgrade enables consumers to turn their Xperia smartphone into a mini-mobile PC by connecting USB peripherals (mouse, keyboard or game controller) to Sony Ericsson LiveDock™ multimedia station. Connect the smartphone to a TV via HDMI to get a big screen experience.
Swipe text input - text input by swiping the finger from one letter to the next
Screen capture - allows the user to share a screen grab from anywhere in the phone
For full details all products news, please visit the press room and the product blog:
http://www.sonyericsson.com/cws/corporate/press/pressreleases/latestnews
http://blogs.sonyericsson.com/products/
Sony Ericsson Xperia™ neo V at a glance.
*Please note that all services mentioned below may not be available in every market.
Colours
White
Blue Gradient
Silver
Facts
Size: 116 x 57 x 13mm
Weight: 126g
Operating system: Google™ Android 2.3 (Gingerbread version 2.3.4)
Processor: 1 GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon MSM8255
Camera
3D sweep panorama
5 megapixel camera
16x digital zoom
Auto focus
Face detection
Flash/LED
Front facing camera (VGA)
Geo tagging
HD video recording (720p)
Image stabiliser
Red-eye reduction
Scene detection
Self-timer
Send to web
Smile detection
Sweep panorama
Touch capture
Touch focus
Video light
Video recording
Video stabiliser
Music
Album art
Bluetooth™ stereo (A2DP)
Media player
Music tones (MP3/AAC)
PlayNow™ service
Sony Ericsson Music player
TrackID™ music recognition
xLOUD™
Internet
Android Market™
Bookmarks
Google™ search
Google Voice™ Search
Pan & zoom
Web browser (WebKit)
Communication
Call list
Conference calls
Facebook™ application
Facebook inside Xperia™ V2
Google Talk™ video chat*
Noise Shield
Polyphonic ringtones
Sony Ericsson Timescape™
Speakerphone
Twitter™ (Timescape™ integration)
Vibrating alert
Video chat ready
Messaging
Conversations
Email
Google Mail™
Instant messaging
Multimedia messaging (MMS)
Predictive text input
Sound recorder
Text messaging (SMS)
Design
Auto rotation
Keyboard (on-screen, QWERTY)
Live wallpaper
Picture wallpaper
Reality Display with Mobile BRAVIA® Engine
Swipe to write
Touch screen
Entertainment
3D games
Media browser
Motion gaming
Radio (FM radio with RDS)
Video streaming
YouTube™
Organiser
Alarm clock
Calculator
Calendar
Document readers
E-Manual
Flight mode
Google Calendar™
Google Gallery 3D
Infinite button
Phonebook
Setup guide
Widget manager
Connectivity
All services mentioned in this leaflet may not be available in every market.
3.5 mm audio jack
aGPS
Bluetooth™ technology
DLNA Certified™
Google Latitude™
Google Maps™ for Mobile
Google Maps™ with Street View
HDMI™ support
Media Transfer Protocol support
Micro USB support
Modem
Native USB tethering
Synchronisation via Facebook™
Synchronisation via Google Sync™
Synchronisation via Sony Ericsson Sync
Synchronisation via Microsoft® Exchange ActiveSync®
TV Out
USB mass storage
USB High speed 2.0 support
Wi-Fi®
Wi-Fi® Hotspot functionality
Wisepilot™ turn-by-turn navigation
Display
Reality Display with Mobile BRAVIA® Engine
16,777,216 colour TFT
Capacitive touchscreen (multi-touch)
3.7 inches
480 x 854 pixels (FWVGA)
Scratch-resistant
Memory
Phone memory: Up to 320MB
Memory card support: microSD™, up to 32GB
Memory card included: 2GB microSD™
Battery life
Talk time GSM/GPRS: Up to 6 hrs 55 min*
Standby time GSM/GPRS: Up to 430 hrs*
Talk time UMTS: Up to 7 hrs*
Standby time UMTS: Up to 400 hrs*
Music listening time: Up to 31 hrs*
Video playback time: Up to 7 hrs 25 min*
*According to GSM Association Battery Life Measurement Technique. Battery performance may vary depending on network conditions and configurations, and phone usage.
Networks
UMTS HSPA 900, 2100
GSM GPRS/EDGE 850, 900, 1800, 1900
UMTS HSPA 850, 1900, 2100
GSM GPRS/EDGE 850, 900, 1800, 1900
In the kit
Xperia™ neo V
1500 mAh battery
Stereo portable handsfree
2GB microSD™ memory card
Charger
Micro USB cable for charging
Synchronisation and file transfer
User documentation
Legal
1) Facts and features may vary depending on local variant. 2) Operational times are affected by network preferences, type of SIM card, connected accessories and various activities e.g. playing games. Kit contents and colour options may differ from market to market. The full range of accessories may not be available in every market.
© Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications AB, 2011
Sony Ericsson boosts 2011 Xperia™ family with new experiences and new software
2011 Xperia™ range to be upgraded to Android Gingerbread platform version 2.3.4
Enhanced Facebook inside Xperia™ functionality
Introducing Xperia™ neo V Android smartphone with the best of entertainment technologies from Sony and Google
25 August 2011, London, UK – Sony Ericsson today announced new functionality and features to its 2011 Xperia™ smartphone range with a comprehensive software upgrade from October 2011. Consumers with 2011 Xperia™ smartphones will benefit from improvements to Sony Ericsson's unique Facebook inside Xperia™ offering and 3D camera functionality from Sony. The upgrade also allows consumers to enjoy the full benefits of the Android Gingerbread platform including Google Talk with Video Chat.
Sony Ericsson's unique social experience provided by Facebook inside Xperia™ has been super-charged enabling Xperia users to like, share and discover on Facebook in a faster, easier and more intuitive way. The new functionality aims to make entertainment more social by giving users the ability to share and discover apps and games with friends through Facebook.
The latest camera enhancements from Sony introduce 3D sweep panorama technology so that images can be captured and then viewed in 3D by connecting the phone to a 3D TV using the HDMI output.
"With this software upgrade, we are bringing a wealth of new and really entertaining experiences to all our 2011 Xperia™ smartphones, including those already in consumers' hands today,"said Nikolaus Scheurer, Head of Product Marketing at Sony Ericsson. "Our users will get to enjoy new features from Google, an even richer Facebook integration, and enhanced camera functionality from Sony."
Xperia™ neo V is one of the first new products to launch with the new software and will include all the features like Google Talk with Video Chat, 3D sweep panorama and enhanced Facebook inside Xperia™ functionality. Building on the success of the original Xperia™ neo launched earlier this year, Xperia™ neo V takes the latest Android software for smartphones and the best of Sony entertainment experiences, including Reality Display with Mobile BRAVIA® Engine, to even more markets. Sony Ericsson Xperia™ neo V will be available globally in select markets from Q4 2011.
The software upgrade will be available in select markets through a phased roll out starting from October 2011. Xperia™ owners will receive a notification instructing them to instantaneously download the software over the air via 3G or WiFi. Alternatively, they will have the option to connect to a computer and download it via PC companion.
Upgrade at a glance:
Xperia™ smartphones to be upgraded to the 2.3.4 version of the Gingerbread platform with new features including Google Talk with Video Chat for smartphones with front-facing cameras
Updated Facebook inside Xperia™ functionality for enhanced like, share and discover abilities
Xperia™ smartphones introducing world's first 3D sweep panorama functionality powered by Sony.
The software upgrade enables consumers to turn their Xperia smartphone into a mini-mobile PC by connecting USB peripherals (mouse, keyboard or game controller) to Sony Ericsson LiveDock™ multimedia station. Connect the smartphone to a TV via HDMI to get a big screen experience.
Swipe text input - text input by swiping the finger from one letter to the next
Screen capture - allows the user to share a screen grab from anywhere in the phone
For full details all products news, please visit the press room and the product blog:
http://www.sonyericsson.com/cws/corporate/press/pressreleases/latestnews
http://blogs.sonyericsson.com/products/
Sony Ericsson Xperia™ neo V at a glance.
*Please note that all services mentioned below may not be available in every market.
Colours
White
Blue Gradient
Silver
Facts
Size: 116 x 57 x 13mm
Weight: 126g
Operating system: Google™ Android 2.3 (Gingerbread version 2.3.4)
Processor: 1 GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon MSM8255
Camera
3D sweep panorama
5 megapixel camera
16x digital zoom
Auto focus
Face detection
Flash/LED
Front facing camera (VGA)
Geo tagging
HD video recording (720p)
Image stabiliser
Red-eye reduction
Scene detection
Self-timer
Send to web
Smile detection
Sweep panorama
Touch capture
Touch focus
Video light
Video recording
Video stabiliser
Music
Album art
Bluetooth™ stereo (A2DP)
Media player
Music tones (MP3/AAC)
PlayNow™ service
Sony Ericsson Music player
TrackID™ music recognition
xLOUD™
Internet
Android Market™
Bookmarks
Google™ search
Google Voice™ Search
Pan & zoom
Web browser (WebKit)
Communication
Call list
Conference calls
Facebook™ application
Facebook inside Xperia™ V2
Google Talk™ video chat*
Noise Shield
Polyphonic ringtones
Sony Ericsson Timescape™
Speakerphone
Twitter™ (Timescape™ integration)
Vibrating alert
Video chat ready
Messaging
Conversations
Google Mail™
Instant messaging
Multimedia messaging (MMS)
Predictive text input
Sound recorder
Text messaging (SMS)
Design
Auto rotation
Keyboard (on-screen, QWERTY)
Live wallpaper
Picture wallpaper
Reality Display with Mobile BRAVIA® Engine
Swipe to write
Touch screen
Entertainment
3D games
Media browser
Motion gaming
Radio (FM radio with RDS)
Video streaming
YouTube™
Organiser
Alarm clock
Calculator
Calendar
Document readers
E-Manual
Flight mode
Google Calendar™
Google Gallery 3D
Infinite button
Phonebook
Setup guide
Widget manager
Connectivity
All services mentioned in this leaflet may not be available in every market.
3.5 mm audio jack
aGPS
Bluetooth™ technology
DLNA Certified™
Google Latitude™
Google Maps™ for Mobile
Google Maps™ with Street View
HDMI™ support
Media Transfer Protocol support
Micro USB support
Modem
Native USB tethering
Synchronisation via Facebook™
Synchronisation via Google Sync™
Synchronisation via Sony Ericsson Sync
Synchronisation via Microsoft® Exchange ActiveSync®
TV Out
USB mass storage
USB High speed 2.0 support
Wi-Fi®
Wi-Fi® Hotspot functionality
Wisepilot™ turn-by-turn navigation
Display
Reality Display with Mobile BRAVIA® Engine
16,777,216 colour TFT
Capacitive touchscreen (multi-touch)
3.7 inches
480 x 854 pixels (FWVGA)
Scratch-resistant
Memory
Phone memory: Up to 320MB
Memory card support: microSD™, up to 32GB
Memory card included: 2GB microSD™
Battery life
Talk time GSM/GPRS: Up to 6 hrs 55 min*
Standby time GSM/GPRS: Up to 430 hrs*
Talk time UMTS: Up to 7 hrs*
Standby time UMTS: Up to 400 hrs*
Music listening time: Up to 31 hrs*
Video playback time: Up to 7 hrs 25 min*
*According to GSM Association Battery Life Measurement Technique. Battery performance may vary depending on network conditions and configurations, and phone usage.
Networks
UMTS HSPA 900, 2100
GSM GPRS/EDGE 850, 900, 1800, 1900
UMTS HSPA 850, 1900, 2100
GSM GPRS/EDGE 850, 900, 1800, 1900
In the kit
Xperia™ neo V
1500 mAh battery
Stereo portable handsfree
2GB microSD™ memory card
Charger
Micro USB cable for charging
Synchronisation and file transfer
User documentation
Legal
1) Facts and features may vary depending on local variant. 2) Operational times are affected by network preferences, type of SIM card, connected accessories and various activities e.g. playing games. Kit contents and colour options may differ from market to market. The full range of accessories may not be available in every market.
© Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications AB, 2011
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