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Thursday, September 8, 2011

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Viewsonic abandons plans for Boxee-powered TV

Posted: 08 Sep 2011 11:24 AM PDT

You may have suspected that something was up after Viewsonic failed to meet its promised "early Q2" ship date for the Boxee-powered TV it showed off at CES, and you would have suspected correctly. GigaOM is now reporting that Viewsonic has indeed ditched its plans for the device, apparently due to a combination of high costs and a lack of interest in Smart TVs from customers. It is still keeping its options open for further down the road, however, noting that it will "stay involved with the various technology developments and consider them in the future as they become available."

Smart Bar from eAccess combines Gingerbread with traditional numpad for old-school enthusiasts

Posted: 08 Sep 2011 11:03 AM PDT

Well, you don't see this too often. A new phone dubbed the Smart Bar is set for sale in Japan on September 22nd that combines the retro styling of a candybar with a modern 3-inch touchscreen. We're undeniably intrigued by the numerical keypad (for obvious reasons), and the WVGA display sports an admirable pixel density of 311ppi, although the rest of the specs are decidedly mundane. The handset is manufactured by Huawei and features an 800MHz Qualcomm MSM7227 SoC, 512MB of RAM, a 5 megapixel camera and Gingerbread. There's also support for 802.11n (which allows tethering for up to five simultaneous devices), Bluetooth 2.1 and IrDA. It features 3G support on the 2100 and 1700MHz spectra, along with tri-band 1900 / 1800 / 900MHz GSM capability. The Smart Bar will sell for approximately ¥29,800 ($385), where fans of vintage fusion may select from black, white and brown variants.

Viewsonic's $200 ViewPad 7e Android tablet now available for pre-order

Posted: 08 Sep 2011 10:44 AM PDT

Viewsonic has been at the low-cost Android tablet for some time now, and it showed no signs of letting up on that effort at IFA last week, where it debuted its new ViewPad 7e. If that managed to pique your interest, you'll be glad to know that the device is now available for pre-order for $199.99 (though there's still no promised ship date). That will buy you a 7-inch screen, a 1GHz Cortex-A8 processor, Android 2.3 for an OS, 4GB of built-in storage, a microSD card slot for further expansion, and even a mini HDMI port that will let you output full 1080p video.

[Thanks, Peter]

ASUS Eee Slate B121 slabs it up for the enterprise market

Posted: 08 Sep 2011 10:21 AM PDT

Temper that excitement. This isn't the rumored quad-core, Kal-El running Transformer 2. Still, ASUS is doing its best to port the tab buzz to the enterprise set with its quietly introduced Eee Slate B121. Unlike its tablet PC bretheren, this business-minded slate runs Windows 7 Professional atop an Intel Core i5 processor, and comes loaded with the security tweaks necessary for the corporate road warrior: like Computrace LoJack for remote location and data wipe, and a Trusted Platform Module microchip that stores encrypted data. Also tacked on to the $1,500 12.1-inch package are a Bluetooth keyboard and Wacom Digitizer stylus. As for the specs, well, there's a 1280 x 800 LED Gorilla Glass display, 4GB RAM, 64GB of storage, dual USB 2.0 ports, mini-HDMI out, SD card slot and 2 megapixel front-facing camera. No official word on exactly when this biz-friendly tablet'll be available, but now would be a good time to convince your IT department to order it up. Be sure to hit the source below for the company's soft sell.

Scientists develop blood swimming 'microspiders' to heal injuries, deliver drugs

Posted: 08 Sep 2011 10:05 AM PDT

Scientists at Penn State would like to release tiny spiders into your blood -- no, it's not the premise for a new horror movie, but rather, it's a medical breakthrough. The spider-like machines are less than a micrometer wide (just so you know, a red blood cell is around six to ten micrometers), and are designed to travel through veins delivering drugs and a little TLC to damaged areas -- not a totally new concept, per se, but even minor advancements can open up all sorts of new doors for troubled patients. Made of half gold, half silica, these microspiders are self-propelled by a molecule called the Grubbs catalyst, which scientists can control directionally using chemicals. Although still in the preliminary phases, lead researcher Ayusman Sen hopes to one day attach the creepy crawlers to nanobots, which could maneuver through the body to detect tumors, helping the immune system and scrubbing vessels clean of plaque. Not like that's doing anything to diffuse your arachnophobia, but hey...

Audio-Haptic Navigation Environment makes music the hands-free way (video)

Posted: 08 Sep 2011 09:33 AM PDT

You've heard of pianists, flutists and organists, but have you heard of Thereminists? The title, originally applied to players of another hands-free instrument from the 1920s, has been repurposed for those who can manipulate invisible sounds in a 3D space called an Audio-Haptic Navigation Environment (AHNE). By tweaking a Kinect sensor and using the OpenNI framework and OSCeleton, researchers at the SOPI Research Group at Media Lab Helsinki were able to create an AHNE "proof concept" called "Tension." Outfitting a volunteer with sensor-laden gloves with a small vibration motor for haptic feedback, they were able to create "music" -- add a pinch of Pitbull, and you're looking at the world's next great mellow anthem. Check out the full music video after the break.

AHNE – Audio-Haptic Navigation Environment from Matti Niinimäki on Vimeo.

Engadget's massive back to school 2011 sweepstakes ends tomorrow... find out how to win!

Posted: 08 Sep 2011 09:00 AM PDT


We really, really love gadgets, but nothing brings us greater joy than to see our readers unbox a new toy, especially when it can help improve your experience at school. So this year we're giving away bags -- 15 of them, in fact -- each filled with 20 amazing prizes. Each winner will score a laptop, tablet, a killer camera, and even a new dual-core cell phone, along with plenty of other awesome items. We'll be choosing one commenter from each of our back to school category pages, and one from our main contest announcement, so if you meet the qualifications listed on each post, simply leave a comment to be eligible to win. You won't be penalized for commenting more than once on each post, but it won't help your chances, either. And since we'll be randomly selecting one commenter from each post, enter at each of the 14 pages linked to here, along with this page to boost your odds. We'll wrap things up at 12PM ET tomorrow, so better get clickin'!

Note: Comments added below will not be eligible, nor will those left on the main back to school page -- if you see a long list of terms and conditions above the comments section, then you've made it to the right place.

ESPN's new Monday Night Football deal includes 3D broadcasts, WatchESPN app

Posted: 08 Sep 2011 08:05 AM PDT

Just hours before the 2011 NFL season kicks off, the ESPN and the NFL announced a new eight year extension for Monday Night Football that runs from 2014 to 2021 and most notably to us, includes a provision for 3D broadcast rights. The new deal covers items from new studio programming (beginning this season) to availability of games on the WatchESPN mobile app to the Pro Bowl we still won't watch. According to the LA Times, the pricetag for ESPN -- before it's passed on to the cable / satellite company and eventually ends up on your bill in a rate increase -- is around $1.9 billion per season, up from $1.1 billion previously. While this should help quell ideas that ESPN 3D might be axed after its removal from U-verse, the bad news is it could still be a ways off, as we're told 3D broadcasts are expected when the extension takes effect in 2014. Sadly, 3D early adopters are probably used to waiting, with unbundled retail availability of Avatar still pending for 2012, this is just one more item to add to your calendar.
Show full PR text
ESPN, NFL Reach Eight-Year Extension for Monday Night Football

Broad Studio, Multimedia and International Rights Included

Monday Night Football, the most successful series in sports media history, will remain on ESPN through the 2021 NFL season under a new eight-year agreement between ESPN and the National Football League, it was announced today by ESPN and ABC Sports President George Bodenheimer and NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. The broad multiplatform agreement, which begins in 2014, includes eight full seasons of MNF telecasts, expanded NFL studio programming (beginning this week), highlight rights for TV and ESPN.com, the Pro Bowl, the NFL Draft, 3D rights, and enhanced international rights.

The extensive package of NFL rights will fuel the continued growth of ESPN year-round, boosting its core television business while at the same time supporting the company's "best available screen" strategy with NFL programs on TV, online and on mobile devices via authentication and digital rights. Outside the U.S., ESPN will televise MNF and other regular season games, playoffs, and the Super Bowl in 30 million households in 144 countries and territories across five continents, including Brazil, the Caribbean, Africa, Middle East, Israel, Australia-New Zealand, and Continental Europe. The agreement also provides the NFL with an option to air a postseason Wild Card playoff game on ESPN should the NFL decide to do so.

An iconic series in the history of American television, Monday Night Football debuted in 1970. After a 36-year run on ABC, the series moved to ESPN in 2006 as part of a landmark eight-year agreement. During the past five seasons, ESPN's MNF has become the most-watched series in cable television history, registering eight of cable's 10 all-time biggest household audiences and 16 of the top 20 (excluding breaking news). In 2010, MNF ranked eighth among all primetime programs (broadcast or cable), averaging 10.5 million homes (14.7 million viewers), an unprecedented achievement for a cable television property. In addition, an estimated 140 million people viewed MNF and NFL studio programming on ESPN/ESPN2 over the course of the 2010 NFL season

Said Bodenheimer: "Today, we've secured cable's most valuable television franchise, along with an enhanced international package of year-round multimedia rights. It will help grow our business well into the next decade. No one has the breadth of worldwide media assets or the ability to monetize a property the way ESPN can, particularly with Monday Night Football and our complete NFL coverage."

"We are proud to extend our three-decade partnership with ESPN," said Commissioner Goodell. "We have come a long way together since ESPN first televised the NFL Draft in 1980. With this new agreement we are excited about the opportunity to take the NFL-ESPN partnership to innovative new heights in serving the most passionate fans in sports."

ESPN's significantly-enhanced NFL rights package for the extension will include:

Telecast rights to 17 Monday Night Football games per season for eight additional seasons (2014-2021).
Rights to more than 500 new hours of NFL-branded studio programming per year, starting this week. Popular programs such as ESPN's Emmy Award-winning Sunday NFL Countdown pre-game show (expands to three hours), NFL Live (expands to one hour year-round), Monday Night Countdown, NFL PrimeTime, and NFL Matchup will continue, and ESPN will create more NFL-branded studio programming, including NFL 32 and NFL Kickoff, both debuting this week. More on these programs (http://es.pn/oGUN9t);
Expanded highlight rights across ESPN's television and digital platforms;
Pro Bowl;
NFL Draft, which ESPN has covered since 1980;
3D distribution rights;
Rights to simulcast network coverage of ESPN's MNF and NFL studio programs on tablet devices through ESPN's WatchESPN App;
Continued Spanish-language rights to MNF on ESPN Deportes;
International rights, including distribution of MNF on ESPN International networks in select markets in Brazil, the Caribbean, Africa, Middle East, Israel, Europe and Australia-New Zealand through 2021; regular season, playoffs and Super Bowl in select markets, totaling 30 million households in 144 countries and territories across five continents; and the ability to utilize NFL programming on all platforms as part of a linear stream of ESPN network programming.
The long-term agreement also ensures that Monday Night Football will celebrate its 50th anniversary season on ESPN in 2020.

ESPN first televised Sunday primetime NFL games in 1987, covering the second half of the regular season (eight games annually,1987-89; nine games, 1990-97), and expanding to a full slate of 18 games from 1998-2005. ESPN has carried a 17-game Monday Night Football schedule since 2006. ESPN is coming off a record-breaking season in 2010.

Monday Night Football averaged a 10.5 rating, and 10.5 million homes (14.7 million viewers). ESPN won the night vs. all networks, cable or broadcast, among men 18-34 and men 18-49 every week during the 2010 season and consistently competed against the broadcast networks in total viewers on Monday nights;
MNF ranked second among all regularly scheduled prime time programs in 2010 among men 18-34, men 18-49 and men 25-54. Among adults 18-49, MNF ranked fourth;
MNF games accounted for cable television's 16 biggest audiences among households, and the 12 biggest among total viewers, in 2010;
Sunday NFL Countdown averaged a 2.1 rating and 2,167,000 households (2,055,000 viewers) in 2010. The household impressions mark represents an eight percent increase from Countdown's 2005 season (1,997,000 household impressions), the final year of ESPN's previous NFL agreement;
Monday Night Countdown had its highest-rated and most-viewed season ever in 2010, averaging a 2.7 rating and 2,729,000 households (3,532,000 viewers). In 2005 (the final year of ESPN's previous NFL deal), Monday Night Countdown averaged 1,749,000 households for the season.

NFL Content on ESPN Digital Platforms:

ESPN averaged 42.2 million unique visitors on the site in fall 2010;
Sundays during the NFL season are the highest trafficked days of the year for ESPN.com
During the 2010 season, NFL content represented 39% of the page views generated on ESPN.com, highest of any sport.
The NFL fan spends over 50% more time with ESPN media than the average person;
ESPN.com NFL coverage on Sunday and Monday (including the home page, NFL section and Fantasy Football section) averaged 47.4 million visits and 271.4 million minutes of usage during the 2010 season, a year-to-year increase of 20% on visits and 20% on minutes.
NFL coverage (incl. NFL and Fantasy Football section) on the ESPN Mobile web site and ScoreCenter app in 2010 delivered 14.5 million visits and 101.4 million minutes each week, increases of 66% and 61%, respectively, versus the prior year.

Droid Bionic review

Posted: 08 Sep 2011 07:30 AM PDT

It's been said that absence makes a heart grow fonder, so it was with very willing and eager hands this week that we received the Droid Bionic, Motorola's latest high-octane, robot-themed assault on Verizon Wireless subscribers. The phone was first announced at CES in the beginning of 2011 and we got to see it in the flesh just an hour later... but then the story took a tragic turn. The Bionic was attacked, killed and then reborn with all new internals.

Phoenix-like, the thing is now available for purchase on Verizon Wireless, $300 for a supposedly top-shelf device that packs both LTE connectivity and a dual-core processor. That makes it a first for Verizon, and it also happens to be the thinnest LTE handset yet to cross that carrier's airwaves. Oh, and it has the biggest battery yet, too. Was it was worth the wait, then? Maybe.
Droid Bionic review

Hardware


Users of the Droid X or Droid X2 will feel right at home here. Those phones and this one definitely share some design DNA and a similar layout. On the lower-left is the micro-USB and micro-HDMI ports, needed to power many of the wide array of accessories for this thing. On the upper-right lies a solitary volume rocker (no camera button here), while the power and headphone port can be found up top. Finally, an eight megapixel camera sits around the back -- packing the same number of pixels as its predecessors, but now able to manage 1080p video recording.

So it's familiar, then, but different. One big difference is the deletion of the physical buttons below the display, which we always liked but found a little too firm. The bigger change is the girth. The Droid Bionic is, at its thickest, 13.3mm (just a tick over half an inch) and it only tapers down a bit to 11.3mm (.45-inch). The X2 is less than 10mm at its thickest, and of course it goes way down from there. So, while this is Verizon's thinnest LTE phone, it's far from wafer-like. But, at 159 grams (5.5 ounces) it is at least not considerably heavier than the X2.


Indeed, in the hand it feels solid but not heavy, refined but not dull. It's definitely traipsing along a fine stylistic line that divides sophisticated and boring, but we'd say it's leaning more toward the former than the latter. The only bits of brightwork are the chrome volume rocker and power button, while a subtly polished metal ring wraps the screen and stretches out a bit below it. That screen itself is Gorilla Glass, as you'd expect these days, and it has an interesting beveled edge to it that means the extents of the surface are very subtly recessed below the edge of the phone's body. This serves as an excellent collection mechanism for pocket lint.

Up front is what looks to be the same 4.3-inch qHD display that wowed us on the X2, and it's still impressive here. Very impressive. It doesn't quite offer the eye-popping saturation of Samsung's Super AMOLED Plus displays, but that's not to say it's lacking in contrast, brightness or, indeed, resolution. Viewing angles are as close to 180 degrees as you need, and ultimately this is a screen that has the pixel count and the picture quality to stand up with the best of them.

Situated above the display is a front-facing VGA webcam and an LED status indicator, so you can be sure that if you have an unread email this phone will be blinking at you.

It's all powered by a 1GHz processor, which again sounds like the Droid X2 but this one is rather different. It's a TI OMAP chip, still dual-core but a bit of a departure from the more common Tegra 2 chips. As to why Moto made a change in maker here compared to its many other phones (including the recently released Photon 4G) we're not sure, and Motorola reps didn't have a solid answer for us, but it does do the business, and a 1,700mAh battery promises decent longevity. More on that in a moment.


There's 16GB of total storage built into the phone, about half of which is reserved for apps and other system needs. The phone also comes with a 16GB microSD card, though of course you can bump that up to 32GB if you so choose. Taking formatting and everything else into account you'll have about 23GB of empty space ready to accept your music and videos and whatever else you want to apply here, with about 4GB for apps.

Naturally this is an LTE device, so you have both that and CDMA on tap. Globe trotters will find dual-band CDMA (900 and 1,800MHz) along with 2,100MHz UMTS support, and all that is augmented by Bluetooth 2.1 and 802.11b/g/n WiFi. We found the Bionic to have good but not great signal reception, but calls were completed loud and clear, and the speakerphone on the back is more than loud enough for some ad-hoc conference calls -- or for stepping away from the phone when you find yourself on indefinite hold.

Performance and battery life


The Bionic makes room for a 1,700mAh cell beneath the thin husk of its back cover, the largest battery yet on an LTE device -- and yes, there's an extended cell coming too. In theory this will provide greater longevity than the current crop of 4G devices on Verizon's network, but given it's less than a 10 percent bump over the Droid Charge and only about 15 percent bigger than that in the Thunderbolt, don't go expecting miracles.

We found the phone to be more than adequate for a day of light to moderate usage -- e-mail, web surfing, the like. Mix in a lot of navigation or media streaming, however, and you'll likely be patting your pockets looking for that second battery. And, if you're looking to use this phone as a wireless modem for your laptop, you won't want to stray far from an outlet. We went from a full battery to completely dead in less than three hours of wireless tethering. The phone fared well on our standard battery rundown test (a looping video with the screen locked at 50 percent brightness), clocking in at just under six and a half hours but, as ever with smartphone batteries, your mileage may vary.

When it comes to performance we weren't disappointed by the responsiveness of this phone. The TI OMAP processor, running at 1GHz, is more than enough to load apps quickly, render webpages snappily and overall deliver an experience that won't try your patience. Synthetic benchmarks back that up, with the phone delivering a solid 2,150 on Quadrant, 50.5 MFLOPS on Linpack multi-thread (41.6 on single), 27.7fps on Nenamark 1, 46.7 on the second and churning through the SunSpider JavaScript test in a very respectable 3,926ms. These scores are all very close to the recent Photon 4G, and certainly won't disappoint right now, but we figure the latest crop of American Galaxy SII models -- not to mention the upcoming 1.5GHz devices -- will leave them both in the dust.

Software


The Droid Bionic is running a (lightly) customized version of Android Gingerbread (2.3.4) that includes the latest Google Talk with video chat. Unsurprisingly, there's also a selection of less interesting apps pre-installed here, things like Blockbuster and Let's Golf 2. We did have success uninstalling some of these, but for the others you will at least be able to hide them thanks to one of Motorola's Android customizations -- application groups. Just create a group of the apps that you do want to see and set the phone to display that set by default. Out of sight, out of mind.

It's certainly not all crapware. QuickOffice is a welcome addition to the stock build, and IT types will certainly enjoy the Citrix Receiver. MOTOPRINT is an app that will let you print directly to compatible printers on your local network, or to those more reluctant or non-networked ones through a piece of software that can be installed on a desktop. That software is unfortunately PC-only, but ZumoCast is available for OS X as well. This is an app that lets you stream media directly from your computer to your phone, handling all the transcoding and other mess internally.

The problem with this app (and with the Netflix app, which is compatible) is Verizon's relatively new tiered data plans. You can, of course, get cozy at home on WiFi and not worry about any surprises on your bill at the end of the month, but that rather defeats the purpose of having an LTE device in the first place. That's not a problem with this device alone, and it'll only become more of a concern as Verizon adds more LTE devices, but we're sorry to say that bandwidth anxiety is now joining battery anxiety to make us even less comfortable in getting the most out of our phones.

Verizon does thoughtfully include a data usage widget which updates in more or less real-time, so if you're heading over your limit you'll at least know before you hit the precipice. But, we've found this widget counts data used while tethered as well, which is a definite problem since you'll have two separate pools of data to keep filled.

The Android customizations here aren't restricted to widgets, though, with Android being skinned similarly to how it was on the X2. We generally liked the customizations there, and we do here as well. The predictive keyboard is reasonably accurate and, thanks to the healthy screen size, is friendly for even generously-sized thumbs. The five home screens are, naturally, completely customizable and, with a double-tap of the home button, you can zoom out to see them all at once.

The custom lock screen gives you easy access to mute your phone, and has the macho Droid look we've come to expect and, generally, tolerate on these devices. You'll also be treated to a typically red and swirly bootup animation should you start this thing cold -- which takes 50 seconds, by the way. In sleep mode the phone will still use a bit of battery life, but starts up in a much more teneable two seconds.

Again, overall we never felt like the phone was struggling under the software here, always acting responsively to our touch. We didn't encounter any repeatable bugs, either, which is always a concern on a new handset.

Camera


This seems to be the same eight megapixel unit that we saw on the X2 and the X before it, and it looks to deliver the same results here. Pictures are a bit underexposed at times, lacking contrast. The autofocus lens does do great work on close-up macro shots, but we did find focusing to be slow in some situations. This resulted in a few seconds worth of shutter lag in some cases, which made capturing images of our impatient canine models rather challenging.

Video recording has been bumped up to 1080p and the resulting quality improvement is noticeable, but we did see some focus hunting in the resulting footage, particularly when filming closer subjects. Still, it'll more than suffice for recording your two best friends taking turns chasing each other around the yard.
Droid Bionic sample shots

Accessories


As with the Atrix, Motorola really pulled out the stops for Bionic accessories, so prepare for eager salesmen and saleswomen who will be doing their best to up-sell you. Which add-ons are worth your time? Read on to find out, but it's important to note that almost all of these will only work with the Droid Bionic. Despite the plethora of Moto devices that offer the same micro-USB and micro-HDMI placement. So don't look at any of these as an investment that you can possibly use with your next Moto handset -- they'll be obsolete right along with your Bionic in a couple of years.
Droid Bionic accessories

Lapdock - $300


Little here has changed since the Atrix on this, and while it is nice to see this little zombie laptop continuing on, it's disappointing to see the implementation hasn't changed a lick since before. You're still looking at a sleek, slim design housing an 11.5-inch, 1,366 x 768 resolution display plus a sizeable internal battery that will deliver between eight and 10 hours of life, even recharging your phone while it's plugged in. Those things are just fine, but sadly the keyboard is still unnecessarily small and cramped, the trackpad is big but unresponsive (and doesn't support gesture scrolling), the left and right mouse buttons frankly feel broken and -- most troublingly -- performance is simply not good.

Pop the phone in and you're greeted with the Webtop environment after a few seconds, which is again little-changed from before. You're presented with a windowed view of what's on the phone, which you can use the keyboard and mouse to clumsily interact with -- even sending text messages and the like if you wish. But, if you wanted to just use your phone you'd be far better off just pulling it out of the dock. The real point of this is to get to the few other apps that are accessible on there, with Firefox being the only one that's genuinely worthwhile.

We're talking Firefox 4 (a mere two major versions behind the status quo) with Flash 10 support, and performance here is only slightly worse than a $199 netbook doing its damndest to get by with an aged Atom processor. Chances are that netbook would have a better keyboard, too. We love, love the idea of plugging a phone into something and having it be the brains of the operation, and hopefully Google brings Android and Chrome OS together into some sort of beautiful partnership down the road, but as it stands this is simply not worth the money -- even with the $100 discount Verizon is offering should you opt for a tethering plan.

HD Station - $100


This is the most comprehensive of the various non-laptop docks that are available, and naturally the most expensive. For $100 you get a device with HDMI pass-through and three USB ports, plus a 3.5mm output for analog speakers, too. You can configure the Bionic to pop into webtop mode as soon as you dock in here, and with an external HDMI monitor plus a USB (or Bluetooth) keyboard and mouse, you can use this to turn your phone into a little desktop replacement. Assuming you spend more than $5 on that keyboard and mouse you'll find the overall experience to be preferable to the Lapdock, but you'll still have to deal with that lackluster performance.

The included remote control does mean you can control your phone from across the room, which could make this a compelling option if you're looking for a media player. But, the price here is just a bit dear.

Standard Dock - $40


This guy loses the HDMI output and the trio of USB ports compared to the HD Station, but keeps the audio output. This is is a great option if you're looking to charge your phone overnight and use it as an alarm clock or media player. Without a remote you'll need to stay within reach, but for the $60 savings we can probably manage to get up off the couch if we need to change playlists.

Vehicle Navigation Dock - $40


The Vehicle Navigation Dock is a fancy name for a fairly standard windshield or dash mount for your phone, including a micro-USB pass-through so that you won't have to manually plug in that cable every time you dock your phone. However, while it does include an audio patch cable, the dock itself does not include a 3.5mm audio out, meaning you'll have to jam that in the headphone jack on your phone every time you dock the thing. Still, we'd say this one is worth the money.

Webtop Adapter - $30


This is a little matchbox-sized thing that has micro-USB and micro-HDMI inputs on one side and micro-USB and micro-HDMI outputs on the other. World's least effective port expander? Not quite. Plug this guy in and you'll kick the phone into Webtop mode, providing video out to an HDMI monitor. The phone itself is turned into a big scrollpad, with the soft keyboard available as well. Or, you can connect Bluetooth peripherals if you're looking for something a bit more manageable. We certainly would.

Wrap-up


The Droid Bionic is exactly what we wanted the Droid X2 to be: that phone plus Gingerbread and LTE. So, happy day, right? Well, not quite. The X2 dropped over three months ago, and while that seems like just yesterday, given how quickly things are moving these days that's absolutely ages ago in the world of the smartphone. Since then we've been teased by the GSII and, with the Note, seen a glimpse of just how fast the next generation of phones is going to be.

The Bionic is a great choice for right now, the best combination of wireless and device speed that we've yet seen on Verizon. For that reason alone it's a smart purchase -- particularly if you've been hanging on to that OG Droid for months and months waiting for a phone like this to come along. But you should know that this isn't a world-conquering device, the kind of thing that will leave you walking tall and proud for months and months to come. If you're okay with that, then buy with confidence.

Sony Ericsson's Xperia Play 4G hitting AT&T on September 18th for $50 on contract

Posted: 08 Sep 2011 07:05 AM PDT

We knew good and well it was coming, and come it has. Sony Ericsson's Xperia Play has made the natural GSM shift in the States in order to grace Ma Bell's airwaves, and despite the "4G" naming convention, this fellow will be topping out at HSPA+. In other words, LTE lovers will need to look elsewhere. This marks the first launch of a PlayStation-certified smartphone for AT&T, and given that it's been around the block a time or two, the carrier is (smartly) pricing it at just $49.99 on a two-year contract -- a buck-fifty less than what it launched for on Verizon Wireless. As we'd heard, it'll ship with Android 2.3.3, a 1GHz CPU, Adreno 205 GPU, a 4-inch display (854 x 480) and will arrive in an exclusive 'stealth blue' hue. AT&T customers will also be blessed with a gratis Multimedia Dock (DK300) and MC100 music cable, not to mention seven pre-loaded games at no charge. Full details on that are hosted up after the break, and interested consumers can line up to grab their own on September 18th.
Sony Ericsson's Xperia Play 4G for AT&T press photos
Show full PR text
xperia™ play 4g keeps favorite video games at your fingertips beginning sept. 18

First PlayStation®-certified smartphone from AT&T available for $49.99 in AT&T stores and att.com

DALLAS, Sept. 8, 2011 -

Key Facts

· The Xperia™ PLAY 4G, combining a PlayStation®-certified gaming device with the capabilities and portability of an Android smartphone, arrives in AT&T* stores, and online on September 18 for $49.99 with a two-year agreement.

· The Xperia PLAY 4G has dedicated gaming controls built into the phone through a slide out controller including directional keypad, dual analog touch joystick, two shoulder buttons and the four iconic PlayStation symbol keys: circle, X, square and triangle.

· Running the Android 2.3.3 (Gingerbread) platform, the first PlayStation-certified smartphone in the world features a brilliant 4" 480 x 854 screen and stereo speakers.

AT&T Exclusives

Only AT&T customers can choose the 4G-capable Xperia PLAY, offered in an exclusive "stealth blue" color. The smartphone package is complete with bonus accessories including the Sony Ericsson Multimedia Dock DK300 and MC100 music cable. In addition to providing a convenient charging station, the DK300 converts the Xperia PLAY's screen to a large clock display, and the music cable lets you connect to external speakers.** The DK300 and music cable come in the Xperia PLAY box, only from AT&T.

In addition, the device is pre-loaded with seven games, some of which are exclusive, at no additional cost including:

· Dungeon Defenders™ Second Wave by Trendy Entertainment
· Asphalt™ 6 Adrenaline by Gameloft
· Star Battalion by Gameloft
· Madden NFL™ 11 by Electronic Arts
· The Sims™ 3 by Electronic Arts
· Tower Bloxx™: My City by Digital Chocolate
· Crash Bandicoot® by SCEA/Naughty Dog/Universal

AT&T customers will have access to more than 150 Xperia PLAY optimized games including Minecraft™ Pocket Edition, Battlefield: Bad Company™ 2 and Dead Space™ 2 for download and purchase through the "Get Games" recommender screen, easily accessible when you slide open the Xperia PLAY's game controller.

Handheld Gaming and Smartphones Converge

The Xperia PLAY 4G offers a gamer's wonderland by providing the on-the-go capabilities of an Android smartphone with the immersive entertainment appeal of a portable gaming device.

* Snapdragon chipset including a 1GHz CPU and Adreno 205 graphics processor (GPU)
* Runs on the Android 2.3.3 (Gingerbread) platform
* Sight and sound: 4" 480 x 854 screen, up to 60 frames per second graphics, stereo speakers
* Dual camera: 5MP rear and VGA forward-facing, with video recording and chat capabilities over Wi-Fi
* Hundreds of Xperia PLAY optimized games through Android Market or directly from the publishers
* Pre-loaded with seven Xperia PLAY optimized games from publishers such as Gameloft and EA.

Along with the great gaming and Android capabilities, the Xperia PLAY 4G from AT&T includes Facebook Inside Xperia, a suite of Facebook functions integrated into various applications, such as friends' birthdays in the phonebook, a "like" button in the music player, photo tags in the media gallery, and YouTube video recommendations from friends.

Pricing and Availability

The Xperia PLAY 4G arrives in AT&T stores and online on Sept. 18 and will be available for $49.99 after a two-year contract with minimum data plan.

Quotes

"Gamers and smartphone fans alike will delight in the Xperia PLAY 4G's instant access to gaming and entertainment," said Jeff Bradley, senior vice president, Devices, AT&T Mobility and Consumer Markets. "We're excited to offer a device that allows consumers to have fun while still staying on top of everything in their life."

"Our fans on AT&T have been asking for Xperia PLAY and now we're giving them everything they need in a smartphone with what they really want – an immersive gaming experience on AT&T's 4G Network," said Peter Farmer, Head of Marketing for North America, Sony Ericsson. "In addition to a constantly growing list of games exclusive to and optimized for Xperia PLAY, we know AT&T customers are really going to enjoy the uniquely Sony Ericsson social experience, including Timescape and Facebook Inside."

Microsoft adds Acer, ViewSonic to patent licensing list

Posted: 08 Sep 2011 06:27 AM PDT

You can go ahead and add Acer and ViewSonic to Microsoft's long list of patent licensees. This morning, Redmond announced a pair of new licensing agreements with the two companies, just a few months after striking similar deals with Itronix and Velocity Micro. Details, however, are few and far between, with Microsoft saying only that it will receive royalties from ViewSonic and that the patents in question pertain to both companies' Android tablets and smartphones. Of course they do. Both press releases await you, after the break.
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Microsoft and Acer Sign Patent License Agreement

Agreement will cover Acer's Android tablets and smartphones.

REDMOND, Wash. - Sept. 8, 2011 - Microsoft Corp. and Acer Inc. have executed a patent license agreement that includes broad coverage under Microsoft's patent portfolio for Acer's tablets and smartphones running the Android platform.

"We are pleased that Acer is taking advantage of our industrywide licensing program established to help companies address Android's IP issues," said Horacio Gutierrez, corporate vice president and deputy general counsel of Intellectual Property and Licensing at Microsoft. "This agreement is an example of how industry leaders can reach commercially reasonable arrangements that address intellectual property."

Microsoft's Commitment to Licensing Intellectual Property

The patent agreement is another example of the important role IP plays in ensuring a healthy and vibrant IT ecosystem. Since Microsoft launched its IP licensing program in December 2003, the company has entered into more than 700 licensing agreements and continues to develop programs that make it possible for customers, partners and competitors to access its IP portfolio. The program was developed to open access to Microsoft's significant R&D investments and its growing, broad patent and IP portfolio.

More information about Microsoft's licensing programs is available at http://www.microsoft.com/iplicensing.

Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq "MSFT") is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.

Note to editors: For more information, news and perspectives from Microsoft, please visit the Microsoft News Center at http://www.microsoft.com/news. Web links, telephone numbers and titles were correct at time of publication, but may have changed. For additional assistance, journalists and analysts may contact Microsoft's Rapid Response Team or other appropriate contacts listed at http://www.microsoft.com/news/contactpr.mspx.

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Microsoft and ViewSonic Sign Patent Agreement
Agreement will cover ViewSonic's Android Tablets and smartphones.

REDMOND, Wash., Sept. 8, 2011 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- Microsoft Corp. and ViewSonic Corp. have signed a patent agreement that provides broad coverage under Microsoft's patent portfolio for ViewSonic's tablets and mobile phones running the Android or Chrome Platform. Although the contents of the agreement have not been disclosed, the parties indicate that Microsoft will receive royalties from ViewSonic under the agreement.

"We are pleased that ViewSonic is taking advantage of our industrywide licensing program established to help companies address Android's IP issues," said Horacio Gutierrez, corporate vice president and deputy general counsel of Intellectual Property and Licensing at Microsoft. "This agreement is an example of how industry leaders can reach commercially reasonable arrangements that address intellectual property."

Microsoft's Commitment to Licensing Intellectual Property

The patent agreement is another example of the important role IP plays in ensuring a healthy and vibrant IT ecosystem. Since Microsoft launched its IP licensing program in December 2003, the company has entered into more than 700 licensing agreements and continues to develop programs that make it possible for customers, partners and competitors to access its IP portfolio. The program was developed to open access to Microsoft's significant R&D investments and its growing, broad patent and IP portfolio.

More information about Microsoft's licensing programs is available at http://www.microsoft.com/iplicensing .

Founded in 1975, Microsoft MSFT -0.62% is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.

ContourRoam waterproof camera takes hands-free filmmaking underwater

Posted: 08 Sep 2011 06:00 AM PDT

Contour has already produced a handful of imagers for football players and cyclists, but the company has now come out with a solution for underwater explorers, as well, with its first waterproof camera -- the ContourRoam. This hands-free device boasts a super wide-angle, 170-degree rotating lens, capable of capturing HD video in three different resolutions (1080p, 960p, and 720p) at 30fps. Its lens can also rotate up to 270 degrees, and projects a horizontal laser to help you align your shots. The camera's instant on-record option, meanwhile, allows you to start recording as soon as you turn it on, while its waterproof aluminum body lets you shoot video at underwater depths of up to one meter for up to 30 minutes at a time -- meaning you can leave that old ContourHD case at home. Aspiring Steve Zissous can buy one now for $200, at the source link below. Otherwise, just wade past the break for more information, in the full presser.
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Ready, Set, Record with ContourROAM: The World's Easiest Hands-Free Video Camera

Contour's Latest Camera Features a Waterproof, Versatile Design at an Affordable Price

– Available Today to Record All Life's Action

SEATTLE, Wash. – September 8, 2011 – Contour, Inc. (http://www.contour.com), a market leader in hands-free video cameras and social video tools, today announced ContourROAM, (http://contour.com/products/contour-roam) the easiest, most versatile video camera on the market. The company's first waterproof camera also features a super wide-angle 170-degree rotating lens to let explorers record their adventures effortlessly. The new design includes an Instant On-Record Switch enabling users to instantly record so there's no question whether the camera is on/recording or not. ContourROAM is now available at Contour.com and retail partners for $199.

"ContourROAM is all about capturing action video easily while having versatility of use across all sports and environments. We created this new hands-free video camera to take the guesswork out of whether the camera is recording or not and to capture and share video with the greatest of ease," said Marc Barros, CEO of Contour. "ContourROAM is so lightweight and compact you don't even notice it's there. It goes wherever the action is, from action sports to team sports to weekend adventures. Just slide the record switch forward and go big."

Contour's latest camera couples its signature hands-free design and technical features with increased simplicity to deliver a fun and easy way to capture action video. Its new Instant On-Record power and record switch enables people to know that the camera is on and recording with a single push of a switch. Being waterproof with a built-in battery allows explorers of all kinds to focus their attention on what's most important: the adventure.

How ContourROAM Delivers

The new action video camera lets people:

· Easily Record On-the-Go: The Instant On-Record Switch powers the camera and starts recording with one touch, so there's no question on whether it's recording or not.

· Withstand Any Environment: With a waterproof aluminum body, the camera records under up to one meter of water for 30 minutes and can sustain the most rugged conditions.

· Capture it All in HD: The camera records crisp high-definition video with three resolutions (1080p, 960p, and 720p at 30fps each) and also has a 5-megapixel still photo mode. A wide-angle 170-degree lens captures the peripherals and backdrops to enhance the point of view experience.

· Line up the Perfect Shot: The lens rotates up to 270 degrees and can project a horizontal Laser Line to make sure the shot is level, even when the camera is mounted on its side or upside down.

· Capture Video Anywhere: Its compact, low-profile, hands-free design makes the 5.1 ounce camera easy to wear without getting in the way. ContourROAM features a new tripod screw mount and the Contour TRail™ mounting system, built-in to mount virtually anywhere.


Shipping today from Contour.com, ContourROAM is also available from the following retail partners: Amazon.com; Best Buy; B&H Photo; Video and Pro-Audio; CCS; Eastern Mountain Sports; Gear Co-Op; and Point of View Cameras.

Contour's latest camera joins its line of award-winning action video cameras, including Contour+ and ContourGPS. The company creates a variety of solutions to fit every explorer's needs, and makes capturing and sharing action video seamlessly with its comprehensive suite of mounts and accessories, free apps, software and online community.

More information on Contour is available at www.contour.com.

NuForce's Icon iDo amp improves iPod sound, costs more than a Classic

Posted: 08 Sep 2011 06:00 AM PDT

Ever feel the temptation to run your iDevice straight into a set of 250-ohm Beyerdynamic or Sennheiser cans? You could, but the resulting sound would hardly rock you. Thankfully, NuForce's colorful Icon iDo is ready to assist in your iAudiophile needs for only $250. This headphone amp -- supporting sampling rates up to 48kHz, 24-bits of resolution and a 10-20kHz frequency -- cables into your iPod's 30-pin connector to bypass the digital audio converter and uses its own to amp up the quality of your audio. The iDo promises to drive headphones all the way up to 300-ohms with 12mW of power via its 3.5 jack, and it's also sporting digital / analog RCAs if you want to share the love with some speakers. You'll be at the whim of wall outlets as plug-in power is required for operation, but at least its built IR receiver will let you remote control your playlists from afar. It's available today if you're finding your HiFi bugged piqued, and a backside shot with PR is just past the break.
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NuForce Introduces Audiophile-Grade Digital Audio Conversion and Headphone Amp for iPad®, iPhone® and iPod Touch®

iDo extracts audio data in its original digital form (in USB Host mode) from Apple mobile digital devices, delivering bit-perfect, low-jitter, audiophile-quality music file playback
Milpitas, Calif. – EMBARGO until September 8, 2011 @ 9:00 AM EST – NuForce, Inc., a leader in professional and consumer audio solutions, announces today its Icon iDo digital audio converter (DAC) and headphone amplifier for iPad, iPhone and iPod Touch devices. The Icon iDo delivers audiophile-grade CD quality sound to digital music files stored on Apple® mobile digital devices. iDo is ideal for music enthusiasts and musicians alike who primarily listen to-and have their digital music libraries stored on-these devices.

"We're thrilled to bring our knowledge and understanding of the high-end audio market direct to Apple enthusiasts," said Jason Lim the CEO of NuForce. "Apple products are becoming the hub of a person's entire music and audio collection, so improving the audio quality produced by these devices is key. The Icon iDo delivers on that at very affordable price point."

A fast and easy connection for audiophile-grade sound.
Using the Icon iDo is simple. Users can connect any Apple mobile device to the Icon iDo with the Apple® approved and included 30-pin sync/charging cable, attach the power supply, and then plug the Icon iDo into a home stereo system using RCA cables or a single coaxial. Users can also plug in headphones directly into the Icon iDo for personal high quality sound playback in a manner the artist intended it to be heard.

How iDo makes music stored on Apple devices sound even better?
Apple uses its own audio codec, Apple Lossless Encoder (ALE), to compress and store music files on its devices in original CD quality without loss. However, even ALE files only sound as good as the default DAC (digital-to-analog converter) found within the mobile digital device. Icon iDo bypasses the built-in DAC and extracts the audio data stored on the device in its original digital form in USB Host Mode. It then converts the high-quality files for bit-perfect and low-jitter music playback.

NuForce Icon iDo
A portable power station for the ultimate headphone listening experience.
Icon iDo also offers a built-in headphone amplifier capable of powering power-hungry headsets, giving users a total audio experience. By properly powering headphones, Icon iDo enhances the auditory performance of the headphones because optimal amperage is being delivered to them, allowing for greater audio clarity.

Product Specs:

Inputs:
• USB (from iPod, iPhone, iPad)
• Maximum sampling rate: 48kHz
• Resolution: 24-bits
Outputs:
• Analog RCA Output = 2Vrms
• Digital Output: coaxial RCA 75-ohm
• 3.5mm full-size headphone output jack drives headphones up to 300-Ohm (12 mW@300-Ohm)
Headphone power spec:
• 130mW rms @ 16 Ohm
• 88mW rms @ 30 Ohm
• 51mW rms @ 60 Ohm
• 28mW rms @ 120 Ohm
• 12mW rms @ 300 Ohm
More Features:
• IR Remote Receiver accepts Apple remote control IR signals for volume and playback adjustment on iOS device
• Frequency Response: 10Hz to 20kHz (-0.5dB)
• Dimensions: 6" x 4 ½" x 1"
• Includes DC Power Supply and 30-pin charge/sync USB Cable
The maximum sample rate currently supported by Apple is 16-bit/44.1kHz or 24-bit/48kHz. **Icon iDo is designed to work with Apple iTunes and iPod software. Other applications may not work.

Chumby NeTV turns any HDTV into a Chumby that's hard to hug (video)

Posted: 08 Sep 2011 05:42 AM PDT

Existing HDTV owners cursing because they don't have a Smart TV will soon catch a break from Chumby. It's developing the NeTV, turning any TV (geddit?) into a giant, unhuggable Chumby that connects in-line between source and TV, overlaying the interface on top of your picture. It ships with a seven button remote, but most people should consider using their Android phones to get the most out of the on-board WebKit browser, seamless photo sharing and notifications that put your SMS messages and emails onto the big screen. Developers are gonna get their mitts on the device later this month, but you can catch a sneak peek after the break

[Thanks, Torin]

Single-chip DIMM stacks integrated circuits like shingles for greater DRAM efficiency

Posted: 08 Sep 2011 05:22 AM PDT

Cellphone screens may be getting bigger, but the push to shrink all other computing components continues unabated. Invensas is well aware of this, and has come up with new, multi-die memory that promises to be both smaller in size and more capacious than existing DRAM. Called xFD, it mounts integrated circuits in a "shingle-like configuration" on top of one another to accomplish the trick. Such stacking increases speed while reducing power consumption due to much shorter connections between RAM dies than what's found in multi-chip DIMM. Of course, the memory won't be popping up in PCs anytime soon, but the company will be showing off its new tech at IDF next week. While you wait, there's more RAM reading in the PR after the break.
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Invensas Unveils Multi-Die Face-Down Packaging Technology at IDF

IDF 2011 San Francisco

SAN JOSE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Invensas Corporation, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Tessera Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq:TSRA), announced that it will demonstrate the dual-face down (DFD) implementation of its new multi-die face-down (xFD) packaging technology at the Intel Developer's Forum (IDF) in San Francisco September 13-15, 2011.

As a result of rapid growth in multi-core processing and computing virtualization, today's data center servers require increased DRAM capacity and performance. New applications for notebook computers, tablets and smart phones also demand additional device performance balanced with battery life and reduced form-factor. A market-ready packaging platform, the Invensas™ xFD™ technology is cost-effective and improves capacity and performance for DRAM devices and memory modules.

xFD is a novel multi-die, wirebond-based packaging technology that mounts integrated circuits (ICs) upside down and staggers them in a shingle-like configuration, incorporating short wirebonds in a structure similar to that of a window-BGA package. With this approach, xFD:

improves capacity and decreases overall component size with a 25 to 35 percent savings in vertical height over conventional solutions

enhances electrical performance with a 50 to 70 percent improvement in speed-bin yield due to symmetric top and bottom die performance

provides a 20 to 30 percent heat transfer advantage over conventional dual-die packages (DDPs)

Invensas xFD technology costs less to manufacture than conventional multi-die DRAM packages because it employs a parallel process flow; significantly reduces gold and other material usage; and is manufactured on existing wirebond assembly lines.

"We developed the xFD technology platform in response to continued industry demand for denser, faster and cheaper DRAM solutions for servers and mobile devices," said Simon McElrea, president of Invensas Corporation. "xFD provides single-die package performance in a multi-die configuration as well as delivering significant thickness and thermal advantages. Unlike more complex alternatives, xFD is manufactured using existing industry manufacturing capacity, significantly reducing the cost, time and risk of high-volume adoption."

Invensas will demonstrate its DFD technology in its booth at IDF.

Adobe rolls out cloud-based Carousel photo service for Apple devices

Posted: 08 Sep 2011 05:01 AM PDT

Looking for another way to store your photos that doesn't involve a shoebox in your closet or a hard drive on your desk? Then you now also have Adobe's new cloud-based Carousel service to consider, which will initially come in the form of apps for iOS and Mac OS X Lion later this month (support for Windows and Android is apparently coming next year). The real selling point here is that your photos are instantly synced across said devices (and you can edit them on each), although that convenience comes at a cost -- the apps themselves are free but you'll be charged $60 a year or $6 per month until January, and $100 a year or $10 a month after that. Video is after the break.

Citrix's GoToMeeting app now freely available for Android, comes pre-loaded on Droid Bionic

Posted: 08 Sep 2011 04:29 AM PDT

Motorola and Citrix have already teamed up to pre-load the latter company's GoToMeeting and Citrix Receiver apps on the Droid 3, and they're now back doing the same with the long-awaited Droid Bionic. The good news for everyone else this time around is that Citrix has also decided to release GoToMeeting as a free app on Android Market. Granted, GoToMeeting may not be quite as exciting as the latest augmented reality app or a mobile version of Minecraft, but it is a fairly significant piece of the enterprise puzzle, which Motorola in particular seems to be targeting heavily these days. Hit the link below to try it out for yourself (provided your phone makes the grade), and head on past the break for the full press release.
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Citrix® Expands Mobile Workforce App Lineup with Free GoToMeeting App for Android™ Users

Award-Winning Online Meeting App on Android Smartphones to be Pre-Loaded with Citrix Receiver™ on DROID BIONIC by Motorola Through Verizon Wireless

Provides the Easiest Way For Users to Join Meetings Instantly from Anywhere at Anytime, Transforming the Way People Work

SANTA BARBARA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Citrix Systems today announced the expansion of its growing line of mobile workforce solutions for the Android Market™ with the availability of Citrix® GoToMeeting® for Android. Available as a free app, Android smartphone users will have access to the industry's easiest and most convenient mobile collaboration application to join online meetings anywhere, anytime. Citrix® GoToMeeting® will also be pre-loaded on the DROID BIONIC by Motorola, the latest Android-powered device from Motorola Mobility arriving at Verizon Wireless on September 8, 2011. Motorola will also be pre-loading Citrix Receiver™, which enables customers to access their corporate Windows apps and documents on over one billion different devices, regardless of operating system or form factor.

"Worldwide Smartphone 2011 – 2015 Forecast and Analysis"

DROID BIONIC by Motorola follows DROID 3 by Motorola as the second Android-powered device to pre-load GoToMeeting and Citrix Receiver, making it easy and convenient for users to attend online meetings and access their applications, desktop and data while on the go.

Citrix believes its expanded mobile collaboration platform will ensure maximum work flexibility and support, providing businesses of all sizes new ways to stay connected and productive regardless of location – a concept Citrix calls 'workshifting.' Using Citrix mobile apps, people can join a meeting anywhere they take their mobile device – in a taxi, on a park bench, in an office or from any location.

"GoToMeeting will be available on Android tomorrow which opens a world of choice for our customers who rely on our application for high-quality, secure and reliable web and audio conferencing. Today's announcement underscores our company commitment to helping businesses – large and small – achieve flexibility and agility in the way they work for maximum productivity and success, anywhere at anytime," said Bernardo de Albergaria, VP and GM, Collaboration, Online Services Division, Citrix Systems.

What Is New: GoToMeeting for Android Market

* Free GoToMeeting app for Android smartphone users: Attend meetings on the go by downloading the free app from the Android Market.
* Pre-loaded for convenience: Android users can access the pre-loaded GoToMeeting and Citrix Receiver app directly from the new DROID BIONIC by Motorola.
* Quick session entry: Join meetings in seconds by clicking a link in an email or clicking the GoToMeeting icon and entering the meeting ID.
* VoIP integrated audio: Quickly connect to audio through the Internet using the built-in mic and speakers.
* Audio controls: Mute yourself to eliminate background noise while on the go.
* Zoom in on meeting content: Zoom meeting content up to 200% by pinching the screen.
* Portrait or landscape view: Flip your Android device to adjust your view of meeting content.
* See who's attending: View a list of meeting attendees.

Why it Matters

* The world of work is no longer confined to the office and collaboration solutions like GoToMeeting and mobile devices powered by Android are transforming the way people work by enabling them to get work done anywhere, anytime – even while on the go.
* Citrix 'GoTo' mobile services ensure secure, reliable and high-performing support for the growing mobile workforce. This mobile portfolio includes apps for iPad that support GoToMeeting, GoToMyPC®, GoToManage® and GoToWebinar®; iPhone apps that support GoToMeeting and GoToWebinar; and now GoToMeeting for Android.
* Citrix is making collaboration possible on the go, transforming the way people work, and enabling them to work wherever, whenever and however they choose.

IDC Reports Steady Adoption of Android by Business Users

"Device manufacturers have invested a good deal of time and resources to make their Android devices more enterprise friendly. Shipments of Android devices around the world have increased at astounding volumes each quarter and enterprises recognize the productivity benefits from providing the right tools to a growing mobile workforce. IDC believes that vendors will ship a total of 178.9 million Android-powered smartphones by the end of 2011 and reach 420.0 million units by 20151." Stephen Drake, Program Vice President, IDC's Mobility and Telecom Research

Pricing and Availability

Citrix GoToMeeting for Android will be available free of charge from the Android Market at: https://market.android.com/details?id=com.citrixonline.android.gotomeeting

Citrix GoToMeeting for Android and Citrix Receiver for Android are pre-loaded on the DROID BIONIC by Motorola and DROID 3 by Motorola smartphone devices through Verizon and will be available free of charge.

For more information about GoToMeeting, visit www.gotomeeting.com. For more information about Citrix Receiver for all platforms, including Android, visit www.citrix.com/receiver.

Related Links

* DROID BIONIC by Motorola Gets Enterprise Muscles with Citrix Receiver and GoToMeeting
* Citrix GoToMeeting and Citrix Receiver Pre-Loaded on DROID 3 by Motorola
* Citrix Receiver Now Helps Business Say "Yes" to More Than 1 Billion End User Devices

Follow Us Online

* Citrix GoToMeeting on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/GoToMeeting
* Citrix GoToMeeting on Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/gotomeeting
* Citrix Receiver Cloud Demo Environment: http://citrixcloud.net
* Workshifting blog: http://workshifting.com

About Citrix Systems, Inc.

Citrix Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ:CTXS) is a leading provider of virtual computing solutions that help companies deliver IT as an on-demand service. Founded in 1989, Citrix combines virtualization, networking, and cloud computing technologies into a full portfolio of products that enable virtual workstyles for users and virtual datacenters for IT. More than 230,000 organizations worldwide rely on Citrix to help them build simpler and more cost-effective IT environments. Citrix partners with over 10,000 companies in more than 100 countries. Annual revenue in 2010 was $1.87 billion.

The Online Services Division of Citrix provides secure, easy-to-use cloud-based solutions that enable people to work from anywhere with anyone. Whether using GoToMeeting® to hold online meetings, GoToWebinar® to conduct larger web events, GoToTraining® to train customers or employees, GoToMyPC®to access and work on a remote Mac® or PC, GoToAssist® to support customers or GoToManage® for IT support and management, businesses and individuals are increasing productivity, decreasing travel costs and improving sales, training and service on a global basis. For more information, visit www.citrixonline.com.

Citrix®, Citrix Receiver™, GoToMeeting®, GoToWebinar®, GoToTraining®, GoToMyPC®, and GoToManage® are trademarks of Citrix Systems, Inc. and/or one or more of its subsidiaries, and may be registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and in other countries. All other trademarks and registered trademarks are property of their respective owners.

Android is a trademark of Google Inc. Use of this trademark is subject to Google Permissions.

1 IDC "Worldwide Smartphone 2011 – 2015 Forecast and Analysis," Doc#227367, March 2011."

Kokuyo's CamiApp brings paper back to note-taking (video)

Posted: 08 Sep 2011 03:40 AM PDT

Between Samsung's Galaxy Note and the Boogie Board Rip, a mini-trend emerged at IFA last week with companies attempting to bridge the gap between paper notebooks and digital devices. Japanese office supply manufacturer Kokuyo is looking to get in on the action, utilizing devices that consumers already own. In August, the company's CamiApp was released for iOS, with an Android version coming later this month. The app scans and digitizes handwritten text, letting users edit, highlight, email, tag and share the information with apps like Evernote and Dropbox. The apps are specially designed to work with forthcoming "smartphone-friendly" paper notepads from the company. According to Kokuyo, the notebooks have "special features" that make digital capture easier. Eight different notebooks will be made available tomorrow. The company is also working on making the CamiApp notebooks available overseas.

Belkin announces a trio of new products to help your HDTV get its stream on

Posted: 08 Sep 2011 02:57 AM PDT

Belkin today unveiled a handful of new products aimed at making your TV a bit more streamy. The ScreenCast AV 4 lets you stream content from devices like Blu-ray players to an HDTV without the need for an HDMI cable. The transmitter plugs into the source device and the receiver plugs into the TV, making it possible to watch 1080p video wirelessly. The ScreenCast AV 4 will run $249.99 when it hits next month. The company's Universal HDTV Adapter and Universal Wireless AV Adapter, meanwhile, offer up wireless for TVs, making it possible to stream content with dual-band 2.4GHz and 5GHz. The Universal Wireless HDTV Adapter offers up streaming for a single Internet-ready set, while the Universal Wireless AV Adapter works with up to four AV devices. Both are available this month, and will run you $79.99 and $99.99, respectively. More info on all three after the break.
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Banish Home Theater Cords and Wires with New Wireless Home Theater Solutions from Belkin

(Playa Vista, CA) - September 7, 2011 - Belkin today launched a new line of wireless home theater products designed to streamline home theater setups and deliver full-HD content to your HDTV without messy wires and cables. Belkin ScreenCast AV 4 Wireless AV-to-HDTV Adapter allows you to wirelessly connect up to four home theater devices to your HDTV from another location up to 100 feet away; while the Universal Wireless AV Adapter and Universal Wireless HDTV Adapter enable enhanced Wi-Fi® performance on Internet-ready smart TVs for wireless video streaming.

"Home theaters are becoming standard in today's houses and often design aesthetics can be just as influential in purchasing decisions as performance. But no matter how sleek and stylish components are, the tangle of wires and cables that accompany them are a major distraction," said Nate Kraft, director of global product management for Belkin's networking division. "With our new wireless home theater products we wanted to build upon Belkin's expertise in wireless networking to simplify and streamline the home theater setup and enhance the home theater experience."

ScreenCast AV 4

ScreenCast AV 4 wirelessly connects your home theater equipment to your HDTV via a transmitter connected to the device's HDMI connection. Installation is easy-simply plug the HDMI® transmitter into your source device, such as a Blu-ray™ player, and plug the receiver into your HDTV. The powerful transmitter enables you to locate AV equipment up to 100 feet away within a room, or hide them in a closet or adjacent room at a reduced distance.

ScreenCast AV 4 allows you to enjoy the best picture and sound quality with full-HD 1080p resolution, 3D video, and up to 5.1 channels of surround sound. ScreenCast AV also gives you total control of your home entertainment system. The included infrared emitter connects to the ScreenCast AV transmitter and relays the signal from your AV devices' remote controls, allowing you to use the existing controllers, even when the devices are located in another room.

"ScreenCast AV 4 is the perfect solution for both home theater buffs and interior design enthusiasts as it enables you to wall-mount your HDTV for ideal viewing without costly rewiring or drilling holes in your wall," said Kraft.

Universal Wireless HDTV Adapter and Universal Wireless AV Adapter

Belkin's Universal Wireless products turn any Internet-ready TV into a Wi-Fi-enabled TV and make getting connected to services like Netflix®, Pandora®, and Hulu Plus® easy. Both the Universal Wireless HDTV Adapter and the Universal Wireless AV Adapter work with all brands of Internet-ready TVs and provide dual-band performance for better wireless signals and high-quality 3D and HD video streaming. Both feature easy setup and plug-and-play wireless streaming using your existing home network and wireless router.

The Universal Wireless HDTV Adapter is designed specifically for smart TV applications. Powered by a USB cable that connects to any compatible smart TV, it offers superior wireless performance over USB dongles. Unlike wireless adapters from TV manufacturers, the Belkin Universal Wireless HDTV Adapter works with all brands of smart TVs and can be mounted anywhere on the back of the TV for enhanced streaming capabilities.

While the Universal Wireless HDTV Adapter enables Wi-Fi access for a single Internet-ready TV and mounts directly to the back of the TV through the Ethernet port, the Universal Wireless AV Adapter is designed to connect up to four AV devices for streaming to multiple components. Devices are connected to the Universal Wireless Adapter, which then accesses the Internet through your existing home network. This allows you to have wireless access in your living room even if your router lives elsewhere in the home.

"Streaming content is changing the way we watch television, play video games, and use our home theater systems, and Belkin's Universal Wireless products help you get your gaming console, smart TV, or Blu-ray player connected to your home network without having to rearrange or reconfigure your wireless router," said Kraft.

Michael S. Hart, e-book inventor and Project Gutenberg founder, dies at 64

Posted: 08 Sep 2011 01:53 AM PDT

There's some sad news coming out of Illinois today, where Michael S. Hart, the e-book inventor who founded Project Gutenberg, has died at the age of 64. Hart's literary journey began in 1971, when he digitized and distributed his first text, after being inspired by a free printed copy of the Declaration of Independence he found at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. That same year, the Tacoma, Washington native founded Project Gutenberg -- an online library that aims to "encourage the creation and distribution of eBooks" and to "break down the bars of ignorance and illiteracy." By 1987, he'd already digitized a total of 313 books, including works from Homer, Shakespeare and the Bible, before recruiting more volunteers to help out. As of this June, Hart's pioneering library housed about 36,000 works in its collection (most of which are in the public domain), with an average of 50 new books added each week. Described by Project Gutenberg as an "ardent technologist and futurist," Hart leaves a literary legacy perhaps best summed up in his own words. "One thing about eBooks that most people haven't thought much is that eBooks are the very first thing that we're all able to have as much as we want other than air," he wrote in July. "Think about that for a moment and you realize we are in the right job." Michael S. Hart is survived by his mother and brother.

Apple sues Samsung in Japan over alleged iPhone, iPad patent violations

Posted: 08 Sep 2011 12:53 AM PDT

It looks like Apple's patent spat with Samsung has now reached the land of the rising sun. Reuters is reporting that Cupertino is taking the Korean manufacturer to court in Japan, over alleged patent violations pertaining to the iPhone and iPad. Japan's Kyodo news agency first reported the news, citing unnamed insiders who claim that Apple is looking to halt sales of Samsung's allegedly patent-infringing Galaxy S smartphones, while seeking ¥100 million (about $1.3 million) in damages. According to the sources, the first hearing was held in a Tokyo District Court on Wednesday, though a court spokesman would not comment on the pending case. Neither Samsung nor Apple have commented on the suit and details on the patents in question remain unclear, but we'll keep you posted as we find out more.

Update: Ryuji Yamada, CEO of Japanese provider NTT DoCoMo, is now saying that Apple's lawsuit will not have any effect on next month's Galaxy Tab launch. "We have heard from Samsung that there will be no obstruction to sales," Yamada confirmed.

Marvell debuts first single-chip LTE world modem for smartphones, tablets and more

Posted: 08 Sep 2011 12:02 AM PDT

There are LTE modems and there are LTE modems. Marvell's latest is of the latter sort -- the kind you don't see (or lose in your bag) but are glad to have inside your device. It's also a first, packing connectivity for FDD-LTE, TDD-LTE, HSPA+, TD-SCDMA, and EDGE networks into a single-chip design that promises to lower the cost of manufacturing said devices. If Marvell has its way, you'll also be seeing this particular modem in more than just phones and tablets -- the company also sees it being used in everything from cars to TVs and set-top boxes. Full press release is after the break.
Show full PR text
Marvell Announces the Industry's First Single-chip "World Modem" for Global Connectivity with Support for FDD-LTE, TDD-LTE, HSPA+, TD-SCDMA and EDGE

Marvell's LTE world modem technology is designed to provide one of the highest mobile data rates for smartphones, tablets, laptops, TVs and other connected devices anywhere around the world

Santa Clara, California (September 7, 2011) – Marvell (NASDAQ: MRVL), a worldwide leader in integrated silicon solutions, today announced its latest breakthrough technology for global mobile communications, the Marvell® PXA1801 single-chip LTE world modem. The PXA1801 single-chip LTE world modem combines Marvell's leading communications and silicon expertise to enable the design of a wide array of high-performance, low-power Internet-connected devices including: smartphones, tablets, laptops, automotive, set-top-boxes and TVs. The PXA1801 is a true Mobile Multi-RAT design combining 3GPP R9 Cat 4 FDD-LTE (Frequency Division Duplexing Long Term Evolution) and TDD-LTE (Time Division Duplexing Long Term Evolution) with R8 DC-HSPA+ (Dual Carrier Evolved High-Speed Packet Access) for both WB-CDMA (Wideband Code Division Multiple Access) and TD-SCDMA (Time Division Synchronous Code Division Multiple Access) standards and EDGE (Enhanced Data rates for GSM Evolution) delivering the highest data rate available in any given geography.

"The world modem is another game-changing breakthrough from Marvell. As a leader in China's 3G standard TD-SCDMA technology, Marvell has enabled the delivery of a wide array of affordable, advanced consumer devices – including smartphones, tablets and mobile hot spot devices – to China, the world's largest mobile market. Building on that foundation, Marvell is now leading the way to a new era of seamless global connectivity for the masses with the industry's first single chip 2G/3G/4G modem with support for FDD-LTE, TDD-LTE, HSPA+, TD-SCDMA, and EDGE," said Weili Dai, Marvell's Co-Founder. "I envision a time soon when a truly affordable global communications network helps to bring our world closer as consumers from every walk of life enjoy uninterrupted access to all services, applications and the worldwide cloud from any device they choose anywhere they roam. I am proud of Marvell's global team of engineers for their pioneering work and I am excited by all the potential applications our customers will have to use this versatile and affordable new technology to make the world a better place for everyone."

Marvell's solution is designed to deliver superior technical performance and extreme flexibility at a much lower cost of implementation, which is the key to mass adoption of this new standard on a global basis. Widespread implementation of the world modem should both alleviate today's overly strained 3G networks and bring unprecedented service to a potential market of more than two billion new consumers. As 3G will continue to play a prominent role in data communications for the next several years, Marvell has integrated advanced R8 WCDMA HSPA+ (42 Mbps DL) and R8 TD-SCDMA HSPA+ (8.4 Mbps DL) capability ensuring that consumers have the highest performance access to their data regardless of infrastructure availability in any one location.

Additionally, as LTE plays a major role in allowing the cellular infrastructure to scale and meet the growing demands for streaming video and data traffic, Marvell's advanced LTE technology is designed to support the highest levels of performance available in the industry today with Category 4 throughputs of 150 Mbps DL (Down Link). Through its support of release 9 features, such as dual layer beamforming, Marvell LTE substantially enhances signal reception as seen by the users. Supporting all channel bandwidths, including FDD-LTE/TDD-LTE configurations, SISO and MIMO operation, Marvell's LTE technology is designed to provide the flexibility required to meet the worldwide needs of the growing mobile data market.

About Marvell

Marvell is a world leader in the development of storage, communications and consumer silicon solutions. Marvell's diverse product portfolio includes switching, transceiver, communications controller, wireless and storage solutions that power the entire communications infrastructure, including enterprise, metro, home and storage networking. As used in this release, the term "Marvell" refers to Marvell Technology Group Ltd. and its subsidiaries. For more information, visit Marvell.com.

Marvell and the M logo are registered trademarks of Marvell and/or its affiliates. Other names and brands may be claimed as the property of others.

Kodak dons cape for a Google Cloud Print-compatible Hero all-in-one printers

Posted: 07 Sep 2011 11:10 PM PDT

Looks like HP will be getting some company in Google's print cloud. Kodak today announced a new line of Cloud Print-friendly all-in-one devices, which let users print documents without all of those pesky cords. The imaging company is rolling the Hero 3.1, 5.1, 6.1, 7.1 and 9.1. The low-end 3.1 features a 2.4-inch display and does printing, scanning, and copying for $99, while the top of the line 9.1 adds faxing, a 4.3-inch display, a 30 page automatic document feeder, automatic two-sided printing and Smart Sensor technology to the mix at $249. The $199 6.1, meanwhile, is the most business-minded of the bunch, with its home office networking capabilities. All of the models will be available this month. Printable press info after the break.
Show full PR text
KODAK Expands Mobile Connectivity With New Google Cloud Print Ready™ Printers

ROCHESTER, N.Y., Sept. 7, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- To meet the demands of today's mobile consumers and connected professionals, Kodak introduced a new line of KODAK HERO All-in-One Printers allowing people to print how, where and when they want. The HERO Printers are Google Cloud Print Ready and KODAK Email Print Ready, letting consumers easily send documents and photos to their printer from anywhere in the world, using any Internet-connected device(1). They represent the latest innovation in the company's consumer inkjet portfolio, marrying effortless connectivity with Kodak's unique combination of high quality output and affordable ink.

In addition, Kodak will enable Google Cloud Print and KODAK Email Print for previous generation KODAK All-in-One Printers, making Kodak the first printer manufacturer to also offer cloud printing for its existing customers(2).

"With our new lineup of HERO Printers, Kodak is helping to meet the needs of an on-the-go lifestyle by making it easy and convenient for consumers to print from any connected device, anywhere," said Susan Tousi, General Manager, Inkjet Systems, and Vice President, Eastman Kodak Company. "With new features like Google Cloud Print and KODAK Email Print, we continue to advance our intelligent technology while also offering the exceptional quality consumers expect from Kodak and premium ink at an affordable price. With Kodak, consumers do not have to compromise between smart features, quality and affordability."

"Google Cloud Print enables users to print from any app, on any device, to any printer without the need for drivers or a PC connection," said Mike Jazayeri, Product Management Director at Google. "The service works with existing printers as well as with a new generation of Google Cloud Print Ready printers, so we're very excited that Kodak's new HERO All-in-One Printers support the service."

Available this month, Kodak has added four newly-designed printers to its portfolio for the home: the HERO 3.1, HERO 5.1, HERO 7.1 and HERO 9.1 All-in-One Printers. For the home office, Kodak is introducing the KODAK OFFICE HERO 6.1 All-in-One Printer.

Intelligent Printing for a Connected World

New this fall, KODAK HERO All-in-One Printers let consumers seamlessly print on the go from their smartphone, laptop or tablet using Google Cloud Print-enabled apps such as Gmail and Google Docs. They can also send emails and attachments to their KODAK Printer from anywhere, using any email account, with KODAK Email Print Service. Consumers can even share their printer's unique email address with friends, family, colleagues and clients to receive printed files or photos.

In addition to cloud printing capabilities, with the KODAK Pic Flick App, consumers can print photos directly from an iPhone, iPod touch, iPad, BLACKBERRY or ANDROID OS Device(3). And with Kodak's fast Wi-Fi set-up, it's easy to connect to a home network.

Exceptional KODAK Quality with Great Ink Value

The world's foremost imaging innovator, Kodak offers premium photo and document quality backed by more than 100 years of leading KODAK Image Science. KODAK All-in-One Printers with Kodak's proprietary pigment-based inks deliver crisp, sharp text documents, brilliant graphics and KODAK Lab-Quality Photos that dry instantly, are smudge, water and fade resistant, and last a lifetime(4). Kodak offers the world's fastest photo speed printing for highest-quality prints(5).

Committed to providing customers great value, Kodak offers the lowest total ink replacement cost(6) and exceptional cost-per-page.

Built-In Intelligence for Ease and Productivity

KODAK All-in-One Printers feature built-in intelligence, such as Kodak's Smart Sensor technology that predicts the supplies and time needed to complete a job, and automatically identifies paper, size and amount, to help consumers save time and get more done easily. Consumers can also send scans directly to Google Docs, email, memory cards, USB flash drives and network folders.

Kodak is also introducing a touchscreen display with its HERO 7.1 and HERO 9.1 Printers, and more automated features with the OFFICE HERO 6.1 Printer including automatic two-sided printing, copying, scanning and faxing.

Included with every KODAK Printer is KODAK All-in-One Printer Home Center Software, featuring Kodak's Perfect Page Technology(7) which corrects and improves scanned images so they are sharper than the originals. Kodak's software allows consumers to do more with their photos, including 3D photo printing, printing scenes from video files, as well as photo printing directly from FACEBOOK, KODAK Gallery, PICASA, FLICKR and PHOTOBUCKET sites(7).

For more information on Kodak's inkjet printer portfolio and inks, visit http://www.intelligentprinting.kodak.com.

HERO All-in-One Printers Feature Highlights

KODAK HERO 9.1

Top of the line, fully featured wireless all-in-one to print, copy, scan and fax
Google Cloud Print and KODAK Email Print Ready
4.3 in. color touchscreen display
30-page automatic document feeder(8)
Automatic two-sided printing(8)
Separate, automatic 40-sheet photo tray
Smart Sensor technology
Compatible with KODAK Ink Cartridges, 10 Series
US $249.99 MSRP


KODAK HERO 7.1

Premium wireless all-in-one to print, copy and scan
Google Cloud Print and KODAK Email Print Ready
3.5 in. color touchscreen display
Automatic two-sided printing(8)
Separate, automatic 40-sheet photo tray
Smart Sensor technology
Compatible with KODAK Ink Cartridges, 10 Series
US $179.99 MSRP


KODAK OFFICE HERO 6.1

Fully featured, networked home office wireless all-in-one to print, copy, scan and fax
Google Cloud Print and KODAK Email Print Ready
Intuitive control panel and 2.4 in. color display
35-page automatic document feeder(8)
Automatic two-sided printing, copying, scanning and faxing(8)
High-capacity 200-page document tray, also holds 70 sheets of photo paper
Smart Sensor technology
Compatible with KODAK Ink Cartridges, 10 Series
US $199.99 MSRP


KODAK HERO 5.1

Versatile wireless all-in-one to print, copy and scan
Google Cloud Print and KODAK Email Print Ready
2.4-in. color display
Automatic two-sided printing(8)
Smart Sensor technology
Compatible with KODAK Ink Cartridges, 30 Series
US $129.99 MSRP


KODAK HERO 3.1

Easy-to-use, wireless all-in-one to print, copy and scan
Google Cloud Print and KODAK Email Print Ready
2.4-in. color display
Compatible with KODAK Ink Cartridges, 30 Series
US $99.99 MSRP

Motorola Droid Bionic finally available on Verizon, angels sing in chorus

Posted: 07 Sep 2011 10:35 PM PDT

Nine months and three days. That's the length of time between Verizon's official unveiling of the Motorola Droid Bionic and its actual release. The poor device suffered through countless delays and a complete design overhaul as it watched its LTE brethren get launched in the meantime. But today, September 8th, is the day the chains come off Verizon's latest 4G wonder, and it's all yours for three Benjamins. Were you one of the faithful who waited so patiently (or impatiently, even) for the inevitable day of reckoning? Carpe diem, friends, and head to the source link.

Nike teases Back to the Future shoes, creepily leaks the contents of Marty McFly's closet (video)

Posted: 07 Sep 2011 09:53 PM PDT


What's this? Nike is rounding up shoe-nerds (and Back to the Future fans) to taunt them with futuristic metal shield glasses, 1980s candy, and a personal messages from Doc Brown? Could this shoe-filled YouTube tease (uploaded by DocEmmettBrown88) mean that Nike is bringing nerdom's coolest kicks back from the future? Probably. After all, you don't patent power-laces just to make a normal shoe, do you?

[Thanks, Rob]

HP refreshes the Pavilion dm1 with a new design, optional Intel ULV Core i3 CPU (video)

Posted: 07 Sep 2011 09:01 PM PDT

Eight months is dog years in the world of consumer electronics and yet, we still have a soft spot for the HP Pavilion dm1, a dirt-cheap 11.6-inch ultraportable that ushered in AMD's long-awaited Fusion chips. HP just announced the second-gen model, a refresh that includes some spec bumps, as well as a new design and some software add-ons (because we loved the bloatware load so much in the original!). Getting the performance boost out of the way, it'll now be offered with an ultra-low voltage Core i3 processor, while the Fusion options now include the E-300 and E-450 chips (until now, it's been sold with the E-350). The AMD versions will start at $399 with the Core i3 model fetching $599 and up. For some reason even HP doesn't seem able to explain, the Intel version will come with an external optical drive, but the AMD models won't. At least you know you'll be getting more than Intel's brand name for those extra two hundred bucks. The version with the black, non-reflecting lid will go on sale October 30, with a glossier charcoal number available September 21. Until then have a gander at our hands-on shots and walk-through video.
HP Pavilion dm1 (late 2011)
HP Pavilion dm1 hands-on (late 2011)


On the outside, HP's replaced the shiny surface with a material it calls SoftTouch -- a rubber coating that masks fingerprints and doesn't reflect light the way the first one did. We'll be honest: in our brief hands-on, the lid initially felt a little too much like a pair of Latex gloves, but it grew on us even after a few minutes.

Look closer and you'll start noticing lots of areas where the dm1's had work done. It now has a flush battery, the display sits higher and its profile has a slight upward curve toward the hinge -- a design flourish you might remember from machines such as the HP Pavilion dv6. It also trades a giant clickable trackpad for a traditional touchpad-and-buttons combo, although the trackpad now blends in with the palm rest. The keyboard, at least, remains the same, and, as you can imagine, Beats Audio is on board. All told, the matte plastic, flush, removable battery and flat trackpad make it look an awful like a slightly higher-end Mini 210. If that means a flatter bottom and less glare, that's not a bad thing.


On the software side, HP added a feature called Launch Boxes, which lets you pin custom categories to the Task Bar. So, you could create a photo-related box and drop in your image re-sizer, editor and any other relevant programs you use. The point, says HP, is to avoid pinning loads of programs as separate icons. If, you know, that's a pain for you. Personally, we don't mind pinning different apps one by one, but to each his own. HP is also loading some preset folders into the Start Menu, which organize all of that bloatware by category. You could drop in your own apps, we suppose, but really, it's meant to make those pre-installed programs easier to find. Thanks, HP!

As you can imagine, we're champing at the bit to get one of these in for review, and only then will we know what kind of an impact those processor bumps have on performance. The real story, of course, is the new look -- not a full-on makeover, per se, but a redesign nonetheless. So far, so good -- or so it would seem. We'll reserve judgment until our full review, but until then, nothing wrong with a little less shine and some cleaner lines, right?

Show full PR text
HP Unveils the Ultimate Ultraportable PC
Updates HP Pavilion dm1 Notebook PC, introduces HP Premier Experience
PALO ALTO, Calif., Sept. 8, 2011 – HP today introduced the updated HP Pavilion dm1, a consumer notebook PC featuring a gloss finish or HP Soft-touch Imprint design, Beats Audio and HP Premier Experience – an exclusive set of innovations designed to improve on the Microsoft Windows® experience.

The affordable HP Pavilion dm1 is the ultimate ultraportable PC, blending performance and mobility in a stylish package, and offering a battery life of up to 11.5 hours.

Building upon HP's MUSE design philosophy, the dm1 is the first notebook to feature HP Soft-touch Imprint technology, a unique printing process that creates a soft-to-the-touch surface by inlaying graphics into a rubber skin that covers the notebook exterior. The dm1 will be available in either a traditional charcoal gloss finish or a soft-touch ash black finish with a stylized pattern. The ash black design features a velvety finish that not only provides a tactile experience, but also collects fewer fingerprints compared to gloss surfaces.

With the addition of HP Beats Audio, a unique, high-performance technology developed by HP and Beats by Dr. Dre, the Pavilion dm1 offers high-quality entertainment for mobile users.
The dm1 features an 11.6-inch high-definition (HD) LED display, and the built-in HP TrueVision HD webcam captures high-quality images even in low-light conditions.
The compact machine has a range of storage options and also packs power with the latest AMD E-Series Accelerated Processing Units or Intel® 2nd Generation Core processors. AMD models also include AMD Radeon HD discrete-class graphics to enable crisper and more vivid video playback. Thin and light, the dm1 measures less than 1-inch thick in front and weighs 3.52 pounds.

Streamlined Windows 7 experience
HP Premier Experience delivers a streamlined Windows experience that makes HP Pavilion notebooks cleaner, faster and more intuitive.

Part of the HP Premier Experience, HP Launch Box allows applications to be better organized by grouping them for quick access on the Windows 7 taskbar. A simple mouse-over and click launches an application directly from the taskbar, freeing up screen real estate on the PC's desktop. Including the dm1, HP Launch Box is available on 70 percent of consumer notebook models.

Additionally, a simplified, organized Windows Start Menu allows users to find applications faster.
With HP Premier Experience, consumer notebooks have quicker boot-up, shutdown, sleep and resume times, allowing users to access their content quickly. The dm1 shows an approximate 29 and 25 percent improvement on shutdown and resume times, respectively. Boot times and sleep times also are improved.

Select models of HP notebooks feature some of the following HP Premier Experience innovations:
- HP CoolSense technology uses advanced hardware and intelligent software to automatically adjust performance and internal fan settings for a noticeably cooler PC. Whether at a desk or on the move, HP CoolSense technology keeps the PC's surface temperature at an optimum level of comfort.
- HP QuickWeb takes users directly to the web within seconds of powering on, bypassing the full operating system start-up. Users are seconds from chatting with friends on SkypeTM, updating Facebook posts or tweets, and viewing their social calendar all in one place.
- HP ProtectSmart features a built-in accelerometer that detects when a PC is bumped or dropped, locking the hard drive into place within milliseconds to help protect important files. The feature's safeguard modes run without interrupting day-to-day use.
- HP SimplePass provides added online security with a built-in fingerprint reader that auto-populates passwords for online accounts and websites. Valuable account information is locked with a user's fingerprint.

Elements of the HP Premier Experience are available today on 90 percent of HP's consumer notebook models.

Pricing and availability
The HP Pavilion dm1 with AMD processors is expected to be available in charcoal on Sept. 21 with a starting price of $399.99. The soft-touch ash black model will be available this fall.

The HP Pavilion dm1 with Intel processors is expected to be available in charcoal on Oct. 30 with an external optical drive included and a starting price of $599.99. The soft-touch ash black model will be available this fall.

Additional information is available at www.hp.com/personal and http://shopping.hp.com/go/newfromhp.

LG Optimus Note slider emerges from South Korea as dual-core Tegra 2 contender

Posted: 07 Sep 2011 08:32 PM PDT

Samsung certainly had its moment in the sun last week, but it appears that another alluring smartphone will soon emerge from South Korea -- this time as the Optimus Note from LG -- which presents itself in the wild and with a leaked press shot. It's said to feature a 1.2GHz dual-core Tegra 2, along with a 4-inch WVGA NOVA display and Gingerbread. We can also expect a 5 megapixel primary shooter with an LED flash on the rear, a front-facing VGA cam up front, 8GB of internal storage and WiFi Direct capability. The device itself is 12.3mm thick, which accommodates a four-row sliding QWERTY keyboard. While this version seems destined for LG's home territory, we can't help but wonder if we'll see similar specs in the Optimus Slider that's bound Sprint. Also, since the phone has yet to become official, perhaps a last minute name change is in order? As you ponder this final point, hop the break and take a squint at Mr. Blurrycam's finest.

[Thanks, Jungin]


New Mexico's science ghost town: bands won't play no more, too much fighting on the dance floor

Posted: 07 Sep 2011 07:44 PM PDT

Pegasus Global Holdings (us neither) wants to build "The Center" -- an ominously named ghost town on the New Mexico plains. The 20 square mile development will be theoretically capable of housing 35,000 people but will remain deliberately devoid of inhabitants. Instead, it'll be rented out to companies wanting to test their technology in a real urban environment, rather than just testing it out in a real urban environment. Companies can examine things like residential solar panel efficiency, smart traffic systems or the best way to secure wireless networks in dense areas. Presumably doing that in Detroit would be too expensive, or something.

AMD A4-3300 and A4-3400 APUs ready to ship, take on Intel for your budget PC dollar

Posted: 07 Sep 2011 06:59 PM PDT

AMD Llano APU
That's right folks, AMD's A4 APUs are here and ready to take on Intel in a battle for the bottom end of the mainstream desktop market. These dual-core desktop parts pack integrated graphics courtesy of the company's Radeon line. Both also boast a 65W TDP and 1MB of L2 cache. The only difference here is speed and price: the 3300 clocks in at 2.5GHz with a 440MHz GPU for $70, while the 3400 moves on up to 2.7GHz and a 600MHz GPU for only $5 more. They're not exactly speed demons, but should be able to hold their own against similarly priced Pentiums -- especially if you don't plan on buying a discrete graphics card. You can pick one up now at Amazon and other select retailers but, before you go, check out the PR after the break.
Show full PR text
AMD Expands its Desktop Line-Up of AMD Fusion APUs
– A4 APUs enable an excellent everyday computing experience –

SUNNYVALE, Calif. – September 7, 2011

What:
AMD (NYSE:AMD) today announced availability of the AMD A-Series Accelerated Processing Unit (APU) A4-3300 and A4-3400 desktop processors, bringing the entry-level desktop APU price down to just $70 (U.S. suggested retail price) for consumers who want PCs with brilliant HD graphics, advanced performance, and fast application and connectivity speeds.

The AMD A4-3300 and A4-3400 desktop APUs each combine two x86 CPU cores with 160 Radeon™ cores, enabling powerful DirectX®11-capable discrete-level graphics and dedicated HD video processing on a single chip. These dual-core APUs enable responsive and energy-efficient performance for everyday PC productivity and multitasking, as well as an amazing gaming experience.

In addition to leading-edge graphics and competitive compute power, the AMD A4-3300 and A4-3400 APUs support:
• AMD Steady Video for instant removal of shakes and jitters when re-watching video, so content looks steady and smoothi.
• AMD Dual Graphics for a visual performance boost when paired with select AMD Radeon™ HD 6000 Series graphics cardsii.
• Integrated USB 3.0 controller for rapid transfer and storage of digital content.
• AMD VISION Engine Software to provide users with regular updates to help improve system performance and stability, and to introduce new software enhancements.

With a suggested retail price of $70.00 (U.S), the AMD A4-3300 APU operates at 2.5GHz (CPU) and 444MHz (GPU) with 160 Radeon™ Cores, 1MB of L2 cache and a TDP of 65W.

With a suggested retail price of $75.00 (U.S), the AMD A4-3400 APU operates at 2.7GHz (CPU) and 600MHz (GPU) with 160 Radeon™ Cores, 1MB of L2 cache and a TDP of 65W.

All AMD A-Series processors are designed for use with FM1 motherboards. AMD A4 APUs require the AMD Vision Engine Control Center 11.8 driver release or later releases.

Why:
Consumers today need great multimedia performance, connectivity options and responsive multitasking from their PCs. With the AMD A4-3300 and A4-3400 APUs, desktop end-users can enjoy these incredible APU experiences at a low cost.

When:
The AMD A4-3300 and A4-3400 desktop APUs are now available for purchase from Amazon.com, NCIX and other retailers.

Who:
The AMD A4-3300 and A4-3400 desktop processors deliver a compelling, affordable desktop experience for consumers.

About AMD
AMD (NYSE: AMD) is a semiconductor design innovator leading the next era of vivid digital experiences with its groundbreaking AMD Fusion Accelerated Processing Units (APUs) that power a wide range of computing devices. AMD's server computing products are focused on driving industry-leading cloud computing and virtualization environments. AMD's superior graphics technologies are found in a variety of solutions ranging from game consoles, PCs to supercomputers. For more information, visit http://www.amd.com.

Arduino hack imitates Pixar's living lamp, disses IKEA in the process (video)

Posted: 07 Sep 2011 06:13 PM PDT

Oh, look -- it's Pixar's iconic lamp brought to real-world Frankenlife. Okay, not really, but the automated, voice-enabled mod is as close to the movie studio's icon as a hacking kit and five euros in a Swedish furniture store can get you. The prototype, lovingly named "The annoying IKEA lamp" or SM-1, is ArduinoArts' finalist entry for SeeedStudio's Grove Toy Kit contest. Headed by industrial engineer Javier Lander, the project weds two servos (one in the base and one in the lamp), sensors for motion and sound, a three axis accelerometer, LED light and audio board to an Arduino shield, springing the modjob to programmed states of alarm and irritation. We commend Javier for eschewing the cutesy road well-traveled, and giving the mundane desktop light a grumpy, old man makeover. Click on past the break to see this curmudgeonly office accessory in action.

[Thanks, Javier]

Sony launches party pack of noise-cancelling headphones, your personal discotheque awaits

Posted: 07 Sep 2011 05:46 PM PDT


To the joy and delight of babysitters everywhere, Sony announced a boatload of new noise-cancelling headphones and earbuds to keep you sane in loud situations. Leading the pack are the $200, on-ear active / passive MDR-NC200D headphones, which have a 40mm drivers in each ear, 22-hour battery and folding design. For $150, users wanting portability can cop the smaller in-ear MDR-NC100Ds, which have a lower price tag and 13.5mm drivers. Both headphones feature Sony's "Artificial Intelligence Noise-Cancelling" technology, which claims to automatically reduce ambient noise by around 98.2 percent -- because you know, precision matters.

Also launching today are two new smartphone headsets -- the $40 in-ear DR-EX14VP and the $60 DR-XB23VP earbuds -- with connectivity to Android, iPhone and BlackBerry phones, as well as Sony Ericsson, Nokia and other phones thanks to an included compatibility cord. Pulling up the rear are the new iPhone control headsets -- the $60 DR-XB22iP in-ear silicone hybrids, the $40 DR-EX61iP earbuds and the $150 "over-the-head" DR-ZX701iP. Currently accepting pre-orders, the headphones will be available for purchase sometime in October -- just in time to tune out the doorbell this Halloween. Check out the full PR after the break.
Show full PR text
Sony Gives Consumers an Earful with New Noise Canceling Headphones & Headsets for Smartphones

SAN DIEGO, Sept. 7, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Sony's newest noise canceling headphones deliver award-winning noise-canceling technology in more affordable and fresh, compact designs. Smartphone and iPhone® users will also be able to select from a broader lineup of over the head and in-ear style headsets. These new models demonstrate Sony's expertise in combining the truest sound reproduction, superior audio quality and comfort for consumers on the go.

New Noise Canceling Models Offer Award Winning Digital Technology in New Compact Designs

Sony continues to raise the bar with its digital noise canceling headphones with two new models. The MDR-NC200D headphones offer digital noise canceling technology in a compact, over-the-head design, providing incredible noise cancellation and pristine quality audio at an attractive price. Sony's digital signal processing technology reduces up to 98.2% of ambient noise; let it be on an airplane, a train or in an office. And because there are different types of noise in these types of settings, Sony's Artificial Intelligence Noise Canceling technology automatically selects the appropriate noise cancellation with the press of a button. In other words, it knows the type of noise it must eliminate and does it all by itself; perfect for full enjoyment of the user's favorite music or movies in a noise-free environment. Peace and quiet can also be achieved without music and movies as users can remove the detachable cord and still enjoy the noise canceling feature. And since the headphones are both active and passive, users can also listen to music without the noise canceling feature.

The unique two-way folding design makes for a very compact solution, easily fitting into your carry-on luggage or purse, while the long AAA battery life of up to 22 hours makes these headphones a great travel companion, providing hours of worry free listening pleasure.

The MDR-NC200D headphones utilize 40mm driver units for wide frequency response, while the monitor switch allows the user to hear what's going on around them. Users can also enjoy the noise canceling feature without music or movies. A digital equalizer with full digital amplification provides authentic sound reproduction for rich, natural audio while on the move. Included with the headphones are a semi-hard carrying case, an in-flight plug adaptor, AAA battery and a convenient detachable cord. The MDR-NC200D retails for about $200.

The MDR-NC100D headphones offer digital noise canceling technology in a comfortable in-ear design. This ultra-compact model produces incredible noise cancellation of ambient noise up to 98.2%, while pristine audio quality is achieved with 13.5mm drivers. Much like the MDR-NC200D, the MDR-NC100D analyzes surrounding ambient noise using Artificial Intelligence Noise Canceling and selects the best noise canceling mode based on the environment. Users can choose from three sizes of Noise Isolation Earbuds for the most comfortable fit and effective attenuation of ambient noise. Also included is a carrying pouch, in-flight plug adaptor, cord adjuster and an AAA battery supplying up 22 hours of active noise canceling. The MDR-NC100D retails for about $150.

New Headset Lineup for Smartphones Offers Wide Compatibility for Music Lovers on the Move

Smartphone Headsets

Two new Smartphone headsets (DR-EX14VP and DR-XB23VP) allow users to experience powerful sound reproduction and control of their smartphone via an in-line remote control, featuring volume control, play/pause, call answer/end, and a microphone. Out of the box, the headset is compatible with most smartphones, including phones with Android™ OS, iPhone® and Blackberry® devices while a supplied extension cable adds compatibility to most Sony Ericsson, Nokia, and others, ensuring compatibility to almost all Smartphones in the industry. The EX14VP offers the more traditional in-ear solution style, while the DR-XB23VP features powerful bass reproduction with an angled earbud structure. Both include three sizes of hybrid silicone earbuds for a fine-tuned fit. The DR-EX14VP comes in three colors, black, violet and pink, and retails for about $ $40, while the DR-XB23VP retails for about $ $60.

iPhone Control Headsets

Sony is also introducing three new headsets for iPhone users (DR-XB22iP, DR-EX61iP, DR-ZX701iP) providing an ideal mix of comfort, iPod®/iPhone control and audio performance. All three models feature an in-line remote with microphone, as well as controls for play/pause, volume, and track control – all for the listening to music and taking and making calls on the go. All three models offer iPod, iPhone and iPad® compatibility and VoiceOver mode (on enabled devices), where with a press of a button the iPod states the name of the currently playing song or playlist. The DR-EX61ip offers a fresh design in the industry's most popular form factor, while the DR-XB22iP in-ear style headset marries deep bass performance with a hybrid silicone earbud and an angled earbud structure. The DR-EX61iP retails for about $40, while the DR-XB22iP is approximately $60.

The DR-ZX701iP over-the-head headset delivers dynamic frequency response for deep bass and clear treble performance, featuring 50 mm drivers. It accepts high-power input, up to 2,000 mW, and the noise isolating earpads provide a secure and comfortable fit. The performance is sound "from the studio to your ears." The DR-ZX701iP retails for about $150.

The new digital noise canceling models will be available in September, while the headset models will be available in October. All will be available at Sony Stores, including online at http://store.sony.com and other authorized retailers nationwide. Pre-orders are available now. For images and information, please visit www.sony.com/news.

Fisker's shooting brake Surf EV to make waves at Frankfurt

Posted: 07 Sep 2011 05:04 PM PDT

Frankfurt's ready to hang ten as teaser images of Fisker Automotive's new "shooting brake" electric whip dropped in just in time for the city's automotive show on September 13th. Affectionately nicknamed the Surf, the two-door sedan is the latest incarnation of the Karma, Fisker's range-extended electric vehicle launched last year. Although the company won't release any details on the new ride just yet, we're expecting it to be somewhat similar to the company's former model, which boasts two 150 kW electric motors, a turbocharged 2.0-liter I-4 and a lithium-ion battery. Joining the ranks of other luxury wagons like the Ferrari FF, the Surf's blast-from-the-past design is guaranteed to be a gnarly change from the standard four-door luxury variety, and you can bet we'll be there for the full reveal.

LG's 55-inch LW9800 3D HDTV earns THX certification, our home theater respect

Posted: 07 Sep 2011 04:35 PM PDT

Let's face it. We live in a world chock full of entertainment options. With more means of accessing the visual goods, comes less reason to leave the house. Well, LG's aiming to make the cinema experience even more passé with its 55-inch Nano Full LED Cinema LW9800 3D HDTV set. Recently shown off at CEDIA 2011, the slim, flat panel is the first passive 3D display to garner THX certification, delivering HD enthusiasts closer to true "movie experiences." The 480Hz TV utilizes film-pattern retarder tech to optimize 3D image separation, and also includes LG's Smart TV suite of streaming video services (Hulu Plus, Amazon Instant Video, et al.) and app store. So, if you're ready to roll your eyes at Lucas' latest tweaks from the comfort of your couch, get set to fork over $3,800 and join the at-home grousing.
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LG ELECTRONICS' PREMIER NANO FULL LED CINEMA 3D HDTV IS FIRST PASSIVE 3D TV TO ACHIEVE THX® 3D CERTIFICATION

NANO FULL LED Technology and LG Smart TV Deliver Ultimate 2D and 3D Home Theater Experience

INDIANAPOLIS, Sept. 7, 2011 – LG Electronics USA today launched the world's first passive 3D TV to achieve the coveted THX® 3D Display Certification.

LG's new "NANO FULL LED" model is a stunning ultra-slim full-backlight LED HDTV being shown publicly for the first time here this week at the 2011 Custom Electronic Design and Installation Association (CEDIA) Expo. Shipping now, the flagship 55LW9800 also includes the LG Smart TV platform featuring wireless access to a rich array of online content without a PC*.

This unique NANO FULL LED HDTV uses LG's film-pattern retarder (FPR) 3D screen technology making it the first 3D TV using flicker-free passive technology to achieve both THX 2D and 3D Display Certification. Joining an elite group of HDTVs, the 55LW9800 passed more than 400 THX tests evaluating left and right eye images for color accuracy, cross-talk, viewing angles and video processing performance. THX offers the only performance benchmark available today for 3D hardware.

"The milestone of being the first passive 3D HDTV to pass our rigorous testing and achieve 3D Display Certification is quite impressive," said Kevin Wines, Image Technology director, THX. "LG has created a product that meets the utmost standards for 2D and 3D picture quality, delivering movie experiences with the same stunning color and detail found in the filmmaker's studio."

THX provides the ultimate benchmark and performance criteria for CE manufacturers to deliver best-in-class entertainment products. THX 3D Display Certification confirms the 55LW9800 meets THX's qualifications for having the correct gamma, luminance and color temperature. These requirements in addition to low cross-talk and wide viewing angles result in superior 3D picture quality and performance.

The NANO FULL LED display employs a thin film incorporating a full array of LEDs, giving it more uniform light distribution and detailed local dimming from over two hundred addressable sectors. With more uniform lighting and improved localized dimming in both 2D and 3D modes, this model offers a greater range and life to colors. Add LG's TruMotion 480Hz refresh rate and the overall effect is a picture so smooth, sharp and realistic, it's as if the action is playing out right in viewers' living rooms. With NANO technology, superior picture quality meets stylish design, allowing for an incredibly narrow bezel and thin depth of just 1.08 inches.

Next Generation 3D TV Technology from LG
The 55LW9800 features LG CINEMA 3D technology, which lets people recreate the 3D movie theater viewing experience in their homes with lightweight eyewear, crisp, bright images and wide horizontal viewing angles. LG CINEMA 3D makes it easy to host family and friends for a sporting event or 3D movie night given the low cost of the glasses.

LG's FPR technology optimizes the separation of images for the left and right eye, which are then filtered through the glasses to give viewers a better 3D effect with minimal cross-talk. LG's 3D Light Boost, a thin film covering the screen, creates bright, crisp 3D images for a superior 3D viewing experience by helping to counteract dimness that can occur with other 3D systems. The 2D to 3D Conversion feature provides a ready supply of shows and movies in high quality 3D.

"The 55LW9800 provides the ultimate home theater experience for consumers who want great picture, immersive and life-like 3D, and best-in-class technical certification from THX," said Jay Vandenbree, senior vice president, home entertainment, LG Electronics USA. "The display experts agree with what consumers have already said- LG CINEMA 3D provides a top-notch 3D solution, hands down."

Enhanced LG Smart TV
To complete the package, the 55LW9800 incorporates the expanded LG Smart TV online content package, which offers easy access to thousands of movies, customized apps, videos, web browsing as well as simple multimedia file sharing within a consumer's home network*. New additions to LG Smart TV include content from Amazon Instant Video, Hulu Plus, MOG, as well as video conferencing with Skype (accessories sold separately), and numerous options in the LG App store, such as the new 3D Zone. All this content is organized in a simple to use interface controlled by LG's unique gesture-based Magic Motion Remote Control and easily accessed using the TV's built-in Wi-Fi.

The 55LW9800 is available in a 55-inch class size (54.6-inch measured diagonally) at a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $3,799.99.

LG has expanded the 2011 CINEMA 3D series to include 10 models. In addition to the new 55LW9800, they are: the LW6500 series in 47-, 55- and 65-inch class screen sizes (47.0-, 54.6- and 64.7-inch diagonals, respectively), the LW5600 and the LW5700 series in 47- and 55-inch class screen sizes (47.0- and 54.6-inch diagonals, respectively), and the new LW5300 entertainment packages bundled with a 3D Blu-ray player in 47- or 55-inch class screen sizes (47.0- and 54.6-inch diagonals, respectively). While all LG CINEMA 3D models are bundled with four pairs of lightweight, 3D glasses and additional sets of glasses are available for affordable purchase.

Delta intros WiFi-enabled regional jets, Christina Ricci absent from flight launch

Posted: 07 Sep 2011 04:16 PM PDT

You've probably flown the friendly skies surfing along intermittent WiFi, but a hopper flight with the same amenities? Not until now. Delta's continuing its commitment to in-flight WiFi by rolling the service out to its regional jets. Hailing it as a first for its "two-class regional fleet," the airline plans to add 250 Delta Connection jets to the 560 plus roster of currently internet-enabled planes. The carrier's inaugural service flight took off from Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport and treated passengers to free WiFi courtesy of a complimentary 30-day Gogo pass. Now, instead of catching up with those long lost Zzzs and arm wrestling with your aisle frenemy, you can keep up with the Kardashians or relive the Pan Am nostalgia on your cruise through the clouds. Jump past the break to read the company's celebratory spiel for yourself.
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Delta Launches First Wi-Fi Equipped Regional Jet

Customers will have access to Wi-Fi on more than 250 Delta Connection two-class RJs by early next year; adding to more than 550 mainline Wi-Fi connected aircraft


ATLANTA, Sept. 7, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Delta Air Lines (NYSE: DAL) today became the first airline in the world to provide in-flight Internet service onboard its regional aircraft with the launch flight of a Wi-Fi-equipped Bombardier CRJ700 operated by Delta Connection carrier Atlantic Southeast Airlines. Delta had previously announced its plan to expand the number of Delta aircraft – which currently includes its entire domestic fleet of more than 550 aircraft – with onboard Wi-Fi to an additional 250 regional jet aircraft operated by Delta Connection carriers. Delta will be the first carrier to deploy Wi-Fi across its entire mainline and two-class regional fleet, a total of more than 800 aircraft.

The first regional jet equipped with Wi-Fi departed from Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport with scheduled stops in Omaha, Neb., Des Moines, Iowa and White Plains, N.Y. throughout the day. To celebrate the occasion, all passengers on the inaugural flight of the Wi-Fi-equipped regional jet will receive complimentary Gogo access. The first passengers departing Atlanta received complimentary 30-day Wi-Fi service courtesy of Delta and Gogo that can be used for future travel. Passengers will be encouraged to tweet using #DeltaRJWifi on today's flights to receive randomly selected gifts from Delta and Gogo.

"With the addition of Gogo in-flight Internet service on Delta Connection two-class regional aircraft, more than 81,000 additional customers daily will be able to stay connected just like they do onboard Delta's mainline fleet," said Bob Kupbens, Delta's vice president – eCommerce. "We continue to innovate and lead the industry with customer-centric technology so customers can do things such as track their bags, check the status of their next flight, check email or connect with social networks while in flight."

Installations of Wi-Fi on Delta Connection jets will be complete by early next year. Once complete, all customers flying on Delta domestic flights with a First Class cabin will enjoy Wi-Fi access, including service on every Delta Shuttle flight between New York-LaGuardia and Boston, Chicago-O'Hare and Washington, D.C.

Delta began installing Wi-Fi on domestic mainline aircraft in 2008, becoming the first airline to announce plans for in-flight Internet service on all domestic aircraft. With its mainline aircraft and the addition of regional jets to the Wi-Fi program, more than 80 percent of Delta's entire domestic fleet will feature Gogo in-flight Internet access. Customers can stay connected using Gogo in-flight Internet with free access to delta.com or Delta's mobile applications.

Delta Connection aircraft featuring First Class cabins include Embraer 170, Embraer 175, Bombardier CRJ700 and Bombardier CRJ900 models operated by Delta Connection. The aircraft feature between nine and 12 seats in First Class and between 56 and 64 seats in Economy.

In addition to Wi-Fi, Delta has taken a number of steps to fully align service on Delta Connection and mainline flights. Recent improvements have included adding First Class cabins to 82 additional CRJ700 jets; introducing meal service in First Class on regional jets; and adding china, linen and silverware to Delta Connection First Class cabins.

Delta's regional jet Wi-Fi investments are the latest in the airline's previously announced plan to invest more than $2 billion in enhanced global products, services and airport facilities through 2013. In addition to installing Wi-Fi and upgrading its domestic fleet, Delta will offer full flat-bed seats on more than 140 widebody aircraft, feature personal, in-seat entertainment for both BusinessElite and Economy class customers on all widebody flights, and complete new terminal facilities for international customers at its two largest global gateways – Atlanta and New York-JFK.

Delta Air Lines serves more than 160 million customers each year, and was named by Fortune magazine as the most admired airline worldwide in its 2011 World's Most Admired Companies airline industry list. With an industry-leading global network, Delta and the Delta Connection carriers offer service to 339 destinations in 59 countries on six continents. Headquartered in Atlanta, Delta employs 80,000 employees worldwide and operates a mainline fleet of more than 700 aircraft. A founding member of the SkyTeam global alliance, Delta participates in the industry's leading trans-Atlantic joint venture with Air France-KLM and Alitalia. Including its worldwide alliance partners, Delta offers customers more than 13,000 daily flights, with hubs in Amsterdam, Atlanta, Cincinnati, Detroit, Memphis, Minneapolis-St. Paul, New York-JFK, Paris-Charles de Gaulle, Salt Lake City and Tokyo-Narita. The airline's service includes the SkyMiles frequent flier program, a world-class airline loyalty program; the award-winning BusinessElite service; and more than 50 Delta Sky Clubs in airports worldwide. Delta is investing more than $2 billion through 2013 in airport facilities and global products, services and technology to enhance the customer experience in the air and on the ground. Customers can check in for flights, print boarding passes, check bags and review flight status at delta.com.

Sony announces a 4K projector for the home, prices HMZ-T1 3D head mounted display in the US

Posted: 07 Sep 2011 03:47 PM PDT

There's a new king atop Sony's line of ES projectors: the VPL-VW1000ES. Presented at CEDIA this afternoon, it bypasses all the beamers Sony's delivered for home use so far -- including the recent VPL-HW30AES and VPL-VW95ES models -- by featuring a stunning 4K resolution, four times that of standard HD projectors based on an all new SXRD panel. Scheduled to go on sale this December it also claims a 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio and 2,000 ANSI lumens of brightness that allows it to project on screens of sizes up to 200-inches. Whether or not you can scrape together the ducats for a 4K projector this Christmas, there are other options for home theater nuts in the form of two new receivers for the ES line that will also be available. The STR-DA5700ES and STR-DA3700ES will ship in November but more than their hardware specs, they feature a new onscreen UI that's supposed to be easier to use. The only device at the presentation with a pricetag was the HMZ-T1 3D viewer we tried out at IFA last week, which has been announced for the US in November with a price "around" $799. Expect more in person pics in a moment, meanwhile the press releases after the break have all the information currently available.

Update: Now with more pictures. During the presentation Sony showed a 4K clip from its upcoming Spiderman flick on a VPL-VW1000ES that looked every bit as beautiful as you might imagine. Also in the gallery is a shot of the new "activity based UI" for the receivers that looks at least something like the graphical upgrade the XMB has always needed. You'll also spy one more device, the funky new SA-NS500 Network Speaker. It's a portable sound blaster with 6 hours of battery life and AirPlay compatibility for $399, shipping in November.
Sony CEDIA 2011 presentation
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SONY RAISES THE BAR AT CEDIA 2011 WITH NEW HOME THEATER INNOVATIONS FOR HIGH-END ENTHUSIASTS

4K Home Projector and "Elevated Standard" AV Receivers Launch Alongside U.S. Debuts of True Sony Innovations

INDIANAPOLIS, Sept. 7, 2011 (CEDIA Booth #1803) – Today, in advance of the 2011 CEDIA Expo, Sony Electronics unveiled a variety of ground-breaking products designed to deliver an integrated and immersive home entertainment experience. From audio/video receivers and televisions to speakers and projectors – Sony's CEDIA exhibit runs the gamut from A/V, HD, 3D and beyond.

"We came to CEDIA to reinforce our commitment to being the leading provider of quality entertainment solutions for the high-end and custom install channels," said Mike Abary, senior vice president of Sony Electronics' Home Division. "Sony's Elevated Standard (also known as ES) line and the other new products on display at the show epitomize innovation, quality, and style, and also highlight Sony's legacy in this channel. We're also adding resources to support our leading service programs and working with channel partners to provide dedicated support and training that no other company can match."



Groundbreaking first in home projection

Sony introduced its first home theater front projector capable of displaying stunning 4K images. The top-of-the-line VPL-VW1000ES 4K home theater projector model is specifically designed to meet the needs of custom installers, and its capabilities will deliver entertainment enthusiasts a more immersive, engaging visual experience with over four times the resolution of HDTV.

With 2,000 ANSI-lumens of brightness, the VPL-VW1000ES projector delivers nearly twice the output of previous Sony home theater projectors, making it suitable for screen sizes up to 200 inches diagonally. The VW1000ES model also employs an entirely new SXRD 4K panel, which produces outstanding deep black levels, and when combined with Sony's Iris3 technology, the projector can achieve an incredible 1,000,000:1 dynamic contrast.

In addition to supporting 4K native resolution, the VW1000ES projector also features an exclusive 4K "upscaler" that dramatically enhances all content - SD or HD, 2D or 3D - allowing viewers to see 4K playback, even from their existing media libraries. For greater versatility, it can also display Full HD 3D movies, as well as 2D and 3D anamorphic films. For Full 4K 3D, an integrated IR transmitter drives the projector's TDG-PJ1 active shutter 3D glasses.

The VW1000ES projector offers a variety of installations options, including dual triggers, a 2.1 motorized zoom, expanded throw distances, an RS232 interface, control over IP and compatibility with leading home automation systems.

The introduction of the VPL-VW1000ES complements Sony's full line of home theater front projectors. Introduced earlier this summer, the VPL-HW30AES 3D front projector for the home has been critically acclaimed as an impressive step forward in performance in its class, packing a punch beyond its accessible price of just $3,699.99. Last week, the VPL-VW95ES home theater front projector, debuted at IFA in Germany. This mid-level home projector joins Sony's expansive range of SXRD projectors, and offers another option for cinemaphiles outfitting high-tech theater rooms.



Because sound matters more than ever

Both of Sony's new AV receivers in its ES line-up feature a new and more convenient activity-based user interface that includes an easy set-up wizard. Both the STR-DA5700ES and STR-DA3700ES AV receivers incorporate Faroujda 1080p upscaling and a variety of networking options, including built-in apps for both iOS and AndroidTM devices.

In addition to ear-pleasing sound, both ES receivers are the first to offer a full range of BRAVIA® internet streaming services, including streaming both music and video content. Consumers can choose streaming options from Sony Entertainment Network, Netflix®, YouTubeTM, Pandora® and other content providers. Furthermore, the STR-DA5700ES supports a variety of audio codecs, including DTS Neo X, offers automatic phase matching and speaker relocation technologies, and delivers DLNA client capability.

Both additions to the ES receiver line will ship in November and are compatible with a full-range of control systems.



The future is now

Sony's Personal 3D Viewer head-mounted display is the world's first personal, wearable OLED HD/3D TV. The HMZ-T1 viewer has a unique form-factor that allows users to simply slip the device onto their head and immerse themselves in a virtual theater experience. Announced at IFA last week, the innovative device is designed to deliver an image that appears to be on a theater-size wide screen (750-inch virtual screen from 65 feet away), using miniature720p OLED screens developed by Sony. Displaying high-quality HD video with high contrast and fast refresh rates, the device is capable of enhanced 3D display. The viewer can enjoy a more natural 3D video experience that is completely free of crosstalk since each eye has its own display.

Leveraging Sony's legacy in top-quality personal audio products, the HMZ-T1 head mount display also delivers virtual surround sound. Sony's proprietary signal processing technology powers two integrated headphones which bring the equivalent of 5.1-channel sound to accompany the stunning visuals. Available in November, the HMZ-T1 head mount display will retail for about $799. Perfect for the cinema enthusiast or avid gamer, the innovative personal display lets viewers experience 2D or 3D content comfortably for hours on end.



Cutting cords for true multi-room audio

Music lovers can listen to music wirelessly streamed from PC or Sony Blu-ray DiscTM systems with the stylish SA-NS500 Wi-Fi® Network Speaker, the latest addition to Sony's growing HomeShare line of networked audio, multi-room audio products. This speaker delivers amazing sound and synchronizes music in other rooms by adding multiple HomeShare speakers and using Party Streaming™ playback. Consumers can use their iPhone®/iPod touch® or Android™ phone as a remote control for the system by downloading a free, newly redesigned Sony remote control app. The battery powered SA-NS500 networked audio speaker is fully wireless and portable, providing up to 6 hours of music playback with each charge, and adds Apple AirPlay compatibility for the first time. Available in November, the SA-NS500 will retail for $399.



The year's best LED LCD HDTV stretches even larger

Ideal for custom installations, select BRAVIA® LED LCD televisions are on display; demonstrating Sony's Intelligent Peak LED Backlight full-array local dimming for deeper blacks and improved brightness in lighter scenes, creating incredible on-screen contrast, while Sony's OptiContrastTM panel elevates the picture to the front surface of the TV and creates a dark background for a high-contrast picture even in well-lit rooms. With a rear IR-input and a two-way RS232c connection, it offers easier integration with third-party control systems.



The universe of content, at your fingertips

Sony's Internet Television, model NSX-GT1, the world's first Internet TV powered by Google TV, is the perfect marriage of television and the internet, an all-in-one device with one easy-to-use remote control. With the advantage of software updates being released dynamically over-the-air, customers benefit by always have the latest and best user interfaces. Sony's CEDIA booth provides a preview of coming changes to the Google TV platform, as well as an introduction to the long-awaited AndroidTM App Market.



Sony's CEDIA booth not only showcases innovative, cutting-edge, world's first products, but also demonstrates the company's continued commitment to both high-end home entertainment enthusiasts and the dedicated custom installers who service them. Sony's custom install service programs are designed to help facilitate custom installers as they build sustainable, long-term relationships with consumers and businesses. As Abary concluded, "This formidable line-up of ES and home entertainment products demonstrates how Sony innovation continues to play a central role in the media rooms of today, and shapes the home entertainment experiences of the future."



For full specifications and a list of dealers, please visit www.sony.com/es.


SONY INTRODUCES THE WORLDS FIRST PERSONAL 3D VIEWER

Equipped With Twin OLED Panels- Head-Mounted Display Delivers Immersive 3D/HD Viewing Experience

INDIANAPOLIS, Sept. 7, 2011 (CEDIA Booth #1803) - Sony Electronics today announced the launch of HMZ-T1, Personal 3D Viewer. The head mounted display is a device that offers a one of a kind style viewing of both 2D and 3D content. Simply slip the device onto your head to experience the movie theater-like virtual screen and surround sound.

Equipped with two newly-developed 0.7-inch (diagonal) Ultra-Small High Definition Color OLED Panels, the Personal 3D Viewer leverages Sony's expertise in both OLED display and semiconductor drive technologies. The HMZ-T1 achieves HD picture (1280 x 720) quality that makes full use of the OLED display's high contrast, wide color gamut, and fast refresh rate. In addition, the device adopts the dual panel 3D method which displays an independent HD picture to each eye in order to achieve a more natural 3D image. The viewer enjoys a bright 3D picture that is crosstalk-free.

Viewers enjoy an immersive experience which is similar to watching video on a large screen approximating 150-inches from 12-feet away (750-inch virtual screen, virtual viewing distance approximately 65-feet away). Sony has also adapted its original virtual surround signal processing technology to deliver powerful acoustical equivalent of a 5.1 channel surround-sound system.

Sony is the leader in bringing 3D to the home. From the 'Lens to the Living Room' - professional production technology to home viewing on 3D BRAVIA® HDTVs- Sony 3D gear sets the standard. This year, 3D got personal with the delivery of VAIO models and PlayStation®3 3D titles. Handycam® and Cybershot® cameras are also capable of capturing and playing back 3D memories. Now, the HMZ-T1 brings a whole new concept to 3D viewing, further expanding Sony's 3D world.

The Personal 3D Viewer will be arriving in the Unites States in November and is priced around $799.

Blu e-Cigs finally launches new 'Smart Pack' for social smoking, tweakable nicotine intake

Posted: 07 Sep 2011 03:34 PM PDT

blu Cig's electric cigarettes are already designed to offer users a "healthier" way to get their daily dose of nicotine without resorting to the classic cancer stick. Now, they've launched the long-awaited Smart Pack that alerts you of other users within 50 feet, perhaps for some enlightening small talk without the wrinkle-inducing ash. It also improves battery life and features a "convenient cartomizer" that lets you tweak the level of nicotine and flavor based on how hard you're fiending. Don't worry about running out, as the "Smart Pack" will even automatically reorder your smokes when supply dips -- how kind. In the future, the company hopes to integrate social networking features so like-minded e-smokers can build relationships out of their habits. But honestly, what's more addictive -- nicotine or Facebook? Check out the PR after the break.
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e-Cigarettes Get Social, Last Longer, and Re-order Themselves With New "Smart Pack" From blu Cigs

Smart Pack's ID Technology Detects Other blu Cig Users Close By; High-Tech "Brain" Improves Battery Life And Automatically Re-orders Your e-Cig Supply

CHARLOTTE, N.C., Sept. 7, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- blu Cigs, the e-cigarette brand delivering the superior style and flavor along with the freedom to enjoy smoking anywhere has just announced the official launch of its much-anticipated blu Smart Pack -- the next evolution of the e-cig experience. The first of its kind, blu's Smart Pack features a bevy of tech-savvy enhancements to make the e-cig experience even more interactive and enjoyable -- including a homing device feature to locate other blu users close by, automatic re-ordering when your cartridge supply gets low, and longer lasting battery life and flavor.

blu's e-cigs have quickly risen in popularity, offering a high-tech alternative to smoking by mimicking its behavior -- without the smell, tar, ash, tobacco, or other chemicals associated with traditional cigarettes. Now, blu's Smart Pack further elevates the e-cig experience with a unique built-in ID technology that, when activated, instantly detects and notifies you when a fellow blu user or blu retail location is within a 50-foot range -- creating all types of new possibilities for social interaction among like-minded people. Other industry-first features include:

* Battery management: New and improved technology boasts smarter battery management to extend battery life. Also features new 'no-screw' feature for more convenient battery replacement -- just drop it in and go!
* Convenient cartomizer: Smart Packs include blu's most recent innovation, a one-piece flavor cartridge and atomizer that lets you choose your nicotine strength and flavor in one simple step -- offering unmatched consistency and flavor.
* Instant inventory: The blu Smart Pack will eventually trigger automatic reordering when your supply runs low, based on parameters each user sets in advance.


Future enhancements to the Smart Pack will include desktop software for seamless integration with social media platforms and individual profiles, enabling users to indicate relationship status, network with friends and colleagues, and even identify locations that allow the use of the product.

"We are always out to please our loyal community of blu Cig users, and the Smart Pack incorporates a lot of the wish list items they have shared with us," said Jason Healy, President of blu. "Our new tech-enhanced features are unmatched in the e-cig industry -- and combined with the Smart Pack's new design elements, we're able to raise the bar for the cool factor as much as personal ease-of-use and enjoyment. And that commitment is what keeps customers choosing blu over other brands."

blu's Smart Pack is available exclusively online at www.blucigs.com. Additionally, blu Cigs' popular rechargeable packs and disposable singles are available online and at over 9,000 retail locations including bars, nightclubs, and private airliners nationwide. For a full list of locations, or to purchase online, visit www.blucigs.com.

HTC sues Apple with help from formerly Google-owned patents

Posted: 07 Sep 2011 02:51 PM PDT

There's a fresh new twist in the never ending Apple / HTC patent battle. The Taiwanese handset manufacturer is hitting back against Cupertino using newly obtained firepower: nine patents picked up from Google last week. The patents, which began life under Palm, Motorola and Openwave Systems, were transferred to HTC on September 1st. So much for the whole sitting down and not suing thing.

Magma ExpressBox 3T gives you 3 external PCIe slots over Thunderbolt

Posted: 07 Sep 2011 02:02 PM PDT

ExpressBox 3T
Laptops aren't exactly renowned for their expandability, especially those beautiful slivers of aluminum from Apple. (Simply upgrading the RAM on your Air requires you break out the soldering iron.) Magma has a solution, the ExpressBox 3T. This silver case houses its own 220w power supply and a trio of PCIe 2.0 slots. Two of those slots are of the x8 variety (though one can hold an x16 card) while the third is scaled back to x4. And they all talk to your notebook via that wonderful little port known as Thunderbolt. It even comes with a carrying case which, we suppose, makes this hunk of metal "portable," but we certainly wouldn't want to lug it around very often. Sadly there's no info just yet about price or release date, but we do have a gallery of images below and the complete PR after the break.
Magma ExpressBox 3T
Show full PR text
Magma Announces Three-Slot Expansion Chassis for Thunderbolt™ Technology
Sleek design of Magma's new ExpressBox 3T to be on display at Intel Developer Forum

San Diego, CA – September 7, 2011 – Magma, an innovative and visionary developer of PCI Express® connectivity products, introduces ExpressBox 3T, an expansion chassis with three PCIe slots and a lightning fast connection through Thunderbolt. The introduction of Thunderbolt technology is a great opportunity for Magma to support the next generation of "outside the box" high-speed connectivity. Magma's ExpressBox 3T provides an easy, rock solid migration path to newer and faster Apple computers while protecting the customers' investment in specialized PCI Express peripherals made for video capture and edit, broadcast video, pro audio, communications, data acquisition and more.

Developed by Intel® with collaboration from Apple, Thunderbolt is a high-speed I/O technology running at 10Gbps per channel that brings together high-speed data transfer and high-definition (HD) display on to a single cable. High performance workflows are possible by connecting a Thunderbolt equipped computer to a Magma ExpressBox 3T containing PCIe cards for video capture, media transcoding, audio processing, and fast data storage. And because Thunderbolt is also based on DisplayPort technology, a high-resolution display can be daisy chained with your Magma ExpressBox 3T.

"ExpressBox 3T is the first Magma expansion product specifically made for Thunderbolt-equipped computers. Now, with Thunderbolt technology, mobile, and all-in-one customers have easy access to the fastest I/O technology available today," says Randy Jones, CEO and President at Magma. "ExpressBox 3T is a "must-have" expansion solution for media creators. Magma retains its leadership position by continuing to introduce cutting edge technology for media production and other computing professionals."

Product Information
ExpressBox 3T is a sleek anodized silver chassis with three PCIe 2.0 slots, a cooling fan, a 220W internal power supply, and travel bag for easy transportation. ExpressBox 3T and up to six Thunderbolt devices can be daisy-chained including Thunderbolt and DisplayPort displays. Magma is actively working with development partners such as Apple, Avid, AJA, Red, ATTO, Fusion-io and Promise Technology to validate application performance with ExpressBox 3T in broadcast video and pro audio environments.

About Magma
Magma develops and manufactures PCI & PCI Express Expansion Systems for servers, desktops and portable platforms. Magma's patented expansion products extend your system's PCI and PCI Express outside the computer over cable to a chassis containing additional card slots. Magma's ExpressBox™ line of products includes enclosed and non-enclosed solutions ranging from low-end single slot expansion products to fault-tolerant, highly reliable, accessible and serviceable (RAS) chassis specifically designed for mission critical environments. Magma is dedicated to providing rock solid expansion products for the most demanding configurations. As new interconnect protocols become available, Magma will continue its leadership position at the forefront of expansion technology innovation. Magma products are platform independent, and are used in a variety of industries including audio and video production, test and measurement, medical imaging, surveillance, aerospace and defense, telecommunications, data acquisition, and high performance computing. Magma's team of experienced engineers has been developing expansion and connectivity solutions since 1987. Magma products are assembled in San Diego, CA and go through rigorous certification and quality processes. Magma is the trade name of Mission Technology Group, Inc.

Magma and ExpressBox are trademarks of Mission Technology Group, Inc. Thunderbolt and Thunderbolt logo are trademarks of Intel Corporation in the US and/or other countries. All trademarks are the property of the respective trademark owners.

Eric Schmidt: Ice Cream Sandwich coming in October or November

Posted: 07 Sep 2011 01:26 PM PDT

Got your sights set on the next version of Android, codenamed Ice Cream Sandwich? We knew it was coming near the end of the year, but we now at least have a slightly more specific time frame straight from the horse's mouth. Google's own Eric Schmidt revealed in an interview with Salesforce.com's Marc Benioff that ICS -- the highly-anticipated update to Android that will merge elements of Honeycomb and Gingerbread into one universal OS -- can be expected to arrive in October or November. This matches up with rumors saying the Nexus Prime will be released in the tenth month, but it's the first time we've heard anything official from El Goog since I/O four months ago. Check out the video below to get Schmidt's full statement.


Atari Arcade is the $60 answer to iCade (review)

Posted: 07 Sep 2011 01:00 PM PDT

Yearning to relive the classics (Lunar Lander, anyone?) on your iPad, replete with that authentic arcade feel? It wasn't long ago that we reviewed ThinkGeek and Ion's formidable iCade, but at $100, it was -- and still is -- a pricey portion to stomach for an occasional retro gaming fix. Fast forward to the present, and Atari's paired with Discovery Bay Games to create their own official spin on an iPad arcade adapter, fittingly dubbed the Arcade Duo-Powered Joystick. Unlike the iCade, it doesn't use Bluetooth and requires no batteries -- you simply dock your iPad into its 30-pin connector. The joypad is specifically made to work with Atari's Greatest Hits app, and it's set to land in early October for a slightly more wallet-friendly price of $60. We were able to slam its controls a bit while playing through various levels of Major Havoc and the like, and you'll find our impressions after the break.
Atari Arcade unboxing and hands-on

Hardware



The unit itself looks akin to a racing-striped Shelby Cobra, but there's just one thing we have to get out of way: it feels plasticky. Plasticky in the way a Samsung Galaxy S II feels solid, although far from finely machined like a Nokia N8. It's not awful by any means, but it really does give off a toy-like vibe. On the underside we're greeted by four large rubber feet that kept it in place whether we used it on wood, plastic counter tops or even glass. On top, there's an eight-way clicky joystick, four buttons and a rubber-lined recess with a tilting 30-pin connector and lock tabs to ensure it'll seat either flavor of Apple's slate. Getting our iPad 2 hooked into the Arcade with a snug fit wasn't terribly hard, but it did take a bit of finesse -- and a few grunts of frustration -- to get it docked properly. Notably, we found that thin cases like Speck's Smartshell wouldn't play nice with the device, so you'll have to keep your tablet bare. On more positive notes, the Arcade was easy to use while laying down with it on our stomach or resting in our lap while sitting. The fixed angle for the screen also worked amiably in most situations.

Game-on


With our iPad ready to go, we fired up the familiar Atari app and started our sessions. For every game we simply selected the Arcade as our input method and we were pwning AI noobs (we'd like to remember as such, anyway) like it was the 80's. Putting it simply, the controls on this gizmo feel miles better than the iCade. The joystick is springy with a pleasing amount of resistance and the buttons, although a bit hollow, have a satisfying click with every press. We felt confident pushing its buttons, as all of our inputs always registered -- even when levels got hectic. The four-button layout may seem paltry up against others, but it works out great considering most games in the app only use two or three buttons. Like usual, games only take up a portion of the screen with some blank space where the controls would be. In the Arcade's case, it works out because visuals stay in-aspect without getting blocked by the joystick or our hands -- this also allows the control layout to be recalled if you need a reminder. All that said, we do have a few notable gripes with the design.
Atari Arcade vs. iCade... fight!

For one, the dock doesn't allow you to use the iPad in landscape, and secondly, the buttons lack the usual arcade feel and concave shape. The most annoying quirk, though? The Arcade surprisingly only works while you're in-game and can't be utilized for the in-app menus. We should further note -- as was the case when the iCade hit shelves -- you're limited to a grand total of 100 games. Missile Command remains free and past that you'll pay a buck for one of 25 game packs, or $15 for the whole library. The problem is that many of the titles are merely souped up versions (e.g., Asteroids and Asteroids Deluxe), so you don't end up with 100 drastically different experiences. Considering you won't be using the Arcade outside of the app it's something to keep in mind.

Wrap-up


When it comes down to it -- and if we had to choose between this and the iCade -- we'd say the Atari Arcade takes the high score if you're in it for the control and not the looks. Sure, it may not be as pleasing to the eye or have Bluetooth support, but the Atari Arcade didn't need to eat batteries and served us well as a retro gaming pad. As awesome as the Arcade is, though, $60 is a lot to spend for the limited use you'll be afforded, and we'd really only recommend it for die-hard Atari fans -- folks who won't find the nostalgia wearing off before their fingers are sore.
at 11:37 AM

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