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- Microsoft's Mouse Without Borders: the KVM that killed the KVM (video)
- Intel reveals January 2012 Gingerbread arrival for the Atom E6xx (video)
- Dell to fix faulty M11x hinges the world over regardless of warranty status
- Engadget previews Ferrari's future hypercars at the World Design Contest (video)
- Pandora's song-finding flair comes to Spotify, IHeartRadio via separate initiatives
- Engadget's smartphone buyer's guide: fall 2011 edition
- GameStop to bring Android-based gaming tablet to market
- Orb Live finally lands for Android: streams video, delivers Hulu without the Plus
- 3M makes Mary Lou Jepsen's dreams come true, showers Pixel Qi with cash
- Fusion Garage hacks $200 off of Grid 10 tablet, aims to play the undercutting game
- Sealander amphibious trailer lets you (kinda) rough it on the water (video)
- Broadcom buys NetLogic Microsystems for $3.7b in cash, hopes to add more processors to lineup
- AT&T announces Windows Phone Mango lineup coming this fall, existing devices to be updated
- Wacom Inkling digital sketch pen hands-on (video)
- HTC chairwoman Cher Wang: we might buy a mobile OS, if it feels right
- Cowon D3 firmware hits 3.5, gives your Gingerbread PMP a spit shine
- Crickey! Nokia's N9 goes up for preorder in Australia
- Sinch takes aim at headphone tangles, we go hands-on
- White PS3 coming to Europe and Australia in November
- Smartphones out-ship feature phones in Europe, Samsung leads the way
- Paraswift climbs buildings, jumps, lives to tell the tale (video)
- Amazon to launch Netflix-style service for digital books?
- AirPlay-enabled Music Tap systems touted by Pioneer, free us from living room control
- HP TopShot LaserJet Pro M275 scans 3D objects but only prints in 2D (video)
- How would you change Samsung's Galaxy Tab 10.1?
- Inhabitat's Week in Green: 9/11 Memorial designs, an electric helicopter and laser headlights
- Acer Iconia Tab A501 with HSPA+ hits AT&T on September 18th: $330 on contract
- Switched On: A toy for the smartphone gaming generation
- Yamaha YAS-101 walks into a soundbar, orders a stiff glass of 7.1
- Sony Tablet S arrives at Best Buy, ready to be touched, pre-ordered
- Is Motorola joining the Facebook phone bandwagon with its EX225?
- Scout Observer replaces military SATCOM, is powered by the iPhone 4
| Microsoft's Mouse Without Borders: the KVM that killed the KVM (video) Posted: 12 Sep 2011 11:33 AM PDT  Until now, running multiple computers with one keyboard and mouse has tended to require KVMs or wormholes, but Microsoft developer Truong Do has a better idea. Working at Microsoft's Garage -- Redmond's after-hours pet project program -- he built Mouse Without Borders: software that lets you control computers on the same wireless network with one set of inputs as if it was one machine with a multiple display. Up to four systems can be tied together and the software also provides for seamless drag-and-drop file transfer. Microsoft is releasing it free of charge at the source link, plus you can see Truong Do talking up his creation after the break. |
| Intel reveals January 2012 Gingerbread arrival for the Atom E6xx (video) Posted: 12 Sep 2011 11:12 AM PDT  Intel wants a piece of the smartphone market -- bad. The company has made no bones about its attempts to break into that booming space. Despite big talk, however, it hasn't really given smartphone manufacturers something they can work with. A new promotional video for its pint-sized Atom E6xx series, however, reveals that chipmaker may be taking a step in the right direction, highlighting a January 2012 date for bringing Android 2.3 to the processor. Keep in mind, of course, that this isn't a smartphone chip that we're talking about here -- the primary applications as outlined by Intel are retail, fitness equipment, digital signage and in-vehicle systems. Still, perhaps it marks a next step in the company's push toward your mobile devices, or moreover, a shift for Android into more non-mobile things. |
| Dell to fix faulty M11x hinges the world over regardless of warranty status Posted: 12 Sep 2011 10:49 AM PDT  |
| Engadget previews Ferrari's future hypercars at the World Design Contest (video) Posted: 12 Sep 2011 10:15 AM PDT  That's just the beginning. Automotive technology is finally starting to accelerate the way personal computing devices have for the past few decades. New means of propulsion are combining with ever-greater integrated systems and it's easy to see this as leading us toward a generation of cars faster and still more efficient than anything we've yet seen on the roads. Ferrari calls this four-wheeled singularity the "hypercar," and to get an idea of just what that car of the future might look like it invited 50 teams of designers from major universities around the world to compete. Join us as we look at some of the best creations. The competitionFerrari says the hypercar is "extreme car not only in its architecture but also in every other aspect," a machine that will be making its appearance in dealerships around 2030 or 2040. It'll be the sort of thing kids a generation or two from now will be plastering all over their walls in posters -- if indeed OLED wallpaper isn't commonplace by then. If you look at the car of 20 years ago compared to the car of today it would be easy to think automobiles 20 years from now would be quite familiar to say the least. After all, compare a modern Miata MX5 to the one of the early '90s and you'll see that not a whole heck of a lot has changed.  But, compare today's Droid Bionic to, say, a Motorola StarTAC from 1996 and you'll see the kind of advancement that Ferrari (and others) are hoping will sweep the automotive industry in the coming decades. Optimistic? Sure, but that's far better than planning for another generation of the same 'ol same 'ol. So the competition is intended to explore some ideas on that front, but it's also an opportunity for students to explore new ways of creating those designs of the future. Third place - Cavallo Bianco - RCA, London The third place car, from London's Royal College of Art, was certainly one of the most distinctive models on display at the competition. It was inspired by the need for a Ferrari that would excel in colder climates -- one that's not only drivable on the snow, but is optimized for it. It features four skinny wheels and tires designed to cut through the snow and grip the surface beneath. An electric motor at each corner puts things in motion, while a 1.3 liter turbocharged engine provides the electricity. Also, it's silver -- one of only three cars that weren't red. Second place - Xezri - IED, Turin Samir Sadikho from Turin's IED contributed the Xezri, a sleek coupe that uses micro-turbines for power. It features flexible aerodynamics that flow up at higher speeds to cool the engine and also to generate extra downforce. It has a fighter-inspired cockpit with just a single seat making this the perfect dream machine for eternal bachelors. First place - Eternità - Hongik University, Seoul The grand prize winner came out of Korea and nobody among the (largely cynical) journalists gathered at the event was surprised. Korea is seen as Ferrari's next big market to capture, and so the company is keenly interested in feeling the pulse of that area. Listening to a bunch of design students is certainly a very good way to do that. Plus, the creators from Seoul seemed to be among the few who not only designed their car in software, but who also produced it using digitally-controlled fabrication. Everybody else we talked to whittled theirs out of clay. That's not to say the car itself wasn't deserving. It relies on superconductive engines to provide incredible efficiency and power. The electricity comes from a hydrogen fuel cell and the open cockpit design would surely provide a rush at the ridiculous speeds this thing could achieve -- if the tech existed to actually put it in production. This is, like the rest, very much a car of the future. Wrap-up A hypercar from Ferrari relying on incredible technology? We have mixed feelings about that. It's obvious that young designers around, when freed from the constraints of modern technology, have some ideas about what this sort of exotic automobile should look like. So, the next generation is looking bright -- but the current generation of those in power at the Scuderia are obviously locked in the past. Ferrari president Luca di Montezemolo told us he "doesn't believe" in electric cars and, while he seems to be the kind of man who will still be kicking (and looking rather dashing) in 20 years time, chances are he'll have long-since retired. Will the next generation of Ferrari leadership, then, be a little more open to the sort of change all these young designers are asking for? He or she had better be. |
| Pandora's song-finding flair comes to Spotify, IHeartRadio via separate initiatives Posted: 12 Sep 2011 09:50 AM PDT  CLEAR CHANNEL RADIO RELEASES BETA OF THE NEW IHEARTRADIO For the First Time Ever, Users Can Listen To the Nation's Top Live Radio Stations and Create Custom Radio Stations, All In One Free, Fully-Integrated Service Offers Custom Stations With More Songs, Better Music Intelligence, More User Control and Deeper Social Integration That Are Commercial-Free Through the End of the Year Beta Version Available Today to iHeartRadio Fans on Facebook New York, NY – September 8, 2011 – Clear Channel Radio, the leading media company in America with a greater reach than any radio or television outlet, today announced the beta release of the New iHeartRadio. The New iHeartRadio brings users a best-in-class customizable digital listening experience, one which combines the best of both worlds to deliver everything listeners want in one free, fully-integrated service: More than 800 of the nation's most popular live broadcast and digital-only radio stations from 150 cities, plus user-created Custom Stations which provide listeners more songs, better music intelligence, more user control and deeper social media integration. With 50 million listening hours a month and 34 million downloads of iHeartRadio mobile apps, Clear Channel is already one of the most popular digital music destinations. As part of Clear Channel's commitment to social media integration, from today until September 14 fans can access the beta by first 'Liking' iHeartRadio on Facebook (facebook.com/iheartradio) and then going to iheartradio.com. Beginning September 14, users can experience the beta by going directly to iheartradio.com. Reinventing the Digital Radio Experience: Real Radio plus Custom Stations Featuring More Songs, Better Music Intelligence, More User Control and Deeper Social Media Integration The newest feature of the New iHeartRadio beta is the ability for users to create their own personalized Custom Stations by simply entering an artist or song – and iHeartRadio does the rest. These Custom Stations offer users a number of industry-leading features, including: More Songs – iHeartRadio listeners can draw from a massive catalog of more than 11 million songs and 400,000 artists – more than 10 times the number of songs offered by Pandora. In fact, iHeartRadio's library contains more albums than Pandora's does songs. Better Music Intelligence – iHeartRadio's music intelligence capability combines a sophisticated technology solution with millions of dollars' worth of ongoing consumer music research and the expertise of Clear Channel's leading radio programmers to give users the best custom radio experience available. More User Control – By adjusting a simple onscreen 'control slider,' iHeartRadio users can 'tune' their Custom Station to play the music catalog's more familiar songs – or adjust it to a discovery mode to play a wider variety of artists and music. A "Thumbs Up" or "Thumbs Down" feature allows users to indicate song preferences to further personalize their Custom Stations. Deeper Social Media Integration – iHeartRadio's innovative user Profile Pages and social media tools show users what songs their friends have recently listened to and the songs and artists they like, which serves as yet another means to greater discovery as well as a deeper, more meaningful listening experience. Listeners can also share songs and stations by posting to Facebook and Twitter. Other key features of iHeartRadio's Custom Stations are: · "My Stations," which will act as a bookmark allowing users to save their favorite real and custom stations and easily access them with a single click; "My Stations" stay in sync between the web and users' mobile devices for quick access at home and on the go; · No monthly cap on listening hours; · Custom Stations will be commercial-free until the end of the year. And as always, iHeartRadio's live radio stations allow listeners to tune into their favorite programming no matter where they are – including music, talk, news, comedy and sports – from Clear Channel's more than 800 stations, and offers exclusive content from popular local radio DJs plus top syndicated personalities like Ryan Seacrest, Elvis Duran, Rush Limbaugh, Sean Hannity, Steve Harvey, Glenn Beck, Jim Rome, Bill Handel and Delilah. The New iHeartRadio will be available for the iPhone beginning on Monday, September 12; the app will also be compatible with the iPad and iPod Touch. Android and other platforms will follow in the near future. iHeartRadio's current mobile app lets listeners take their favorite live stations and DJs with them wherever they go, and is available on iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch, Blackberry, Android, Windows Phone 7, Mac, and PC. Clear Channel will release the official New iHeartRadio at the iHeartRadio Music Festival in Las Vegas on September 23 and 24. This two-day music event, which sold out in ten minutes, is hosted by Ryan Seacrest and will mark the biggest live concert festival in radio history. It features an extraordinary line-up, including Lady Gaga, Jay-Z, Coldplay, Kenny Chesney, The Black Eyed Peas, Steven Tyler, Alicia Keys, Jennifer Lopez, Carrie Underwood, Jane's Addiction, Nicki Minaj, John Mayer, David Guetta, Rascal Flatts, Bruno Mars, Sublime with Rome, Kelly Clarkson and special performances from Usher and Sting. "With the New iHeartRadio, we took something that was already amazing and made it even better," said Bob Pittman, Chairman of Media and Entertainment Platforms for Clear Channel. "The New iHeartRadio will reinvent the digital radio experience by offering the innovative features that listeners want the most – live real radio plus the ability to create Custom Stations, all in one integrated service. And we released the New iHeartRadio beta on Facebook so that our most passionate fans could be the first to experience the new product." "The knowledge behind our new user-created Custom Stations is unparalleled," Pittman continued. "Clear Channel is uniquely able to combine the knowledge and passion of industry-leading radio programmers, an extraordinary library of songs and unique, best-in-class algorithms; we also continue to invest millions of dollars in ongoing consumer music research and technology, which pays off in our unmatched personalized music-matching experience. The end result is a digital radio product that offers fans the top live stations plus user-created Custom Stations with more songs, more user control, deeper social integration and more opportunities to discover new music – all in one easy-to-use, seamless product." "The New iHeartRadio advances our strategy of being everywhere our listeners expect us to be, with the best products and services," said John Hogan, President and CEO of Clear Channel Radio. "It also serves our partners in the music industry by increasing our commitment to new music and music discovery and will provide our advertising partners with yet another powerful vehicle to enhance their marketing plans." Hogan added, "The upcoming iHeartRadio Music Festival in Las Vegas lets us get the word out about this new service quickly and on a scale that has never before been utilized for a media product launch." |
| Engadget's smartphone buyer's guide: fall 2011 edition Posted: 12 Sep 2011 09:05 AM PDT  While our choices are sometimes contentious, they're backed with experience that you can rely upon. If you're looking to make a quick decision without much effort, you can rest assured that our selections won't steer you wrong. Still, we encourage you to educate yourself before you decide on a smartphone that best fits your needs. Our Primed series is an excellent place to start, where you can learn about dual-core processors and mobile displays. As always, you're encouraged to share your own experience in the comments, and we hope you have fun listing your own favorites, too. Just remember that we have an $80 ceiling for our budget selections. Compared to our previous buyer's guide, Samsung has begun to lose ground, and while Android maintains dominance, it's found some unexpected competition. Curious to see how it played out? Read on, as we round up the best smartphones of the day. AT&T If a keyboard is what you're after... We're admittedly a bit chagrined by AT&T's selection of QWERTY handsets, but the Torch 9810 ($50) is certainly the pick of the bunch -- given what we have to work with. Interestingly, the network offers a wide array of options for keyboard lovers across smartphone platforms, including the Quantum ($50), Status ($50) and Veer 4G ($0.01), but none of these choices are anything to write home about. In that respect, the updated Torch -- which features a 1.2GHz CPU, 768MB of RAM and a decently high-res 3.2-inch display -- is a bit of fresh air (even though BlackBerry 7 OS comes across as a bit stale). As you might expect, the 9810 provides excellent battery life, solid voice clarity and a top-notch keyboard. And as it turns out, the little guy takes pretty good photos, too.If you're looking to squeeze every penny... Sprint If a keyboard is what you're after... Yes, the Epic 4G ($100) is beginning to show its age, but it remains one of our favorite phones in the Galaxy S lineup. Like other devices in Samsung's family, it features an attractive Super AMOLED display that's significantly better than its competition -- namely the EVO Shift 4G ($100) and Arrive ($200) -- both of which use traditional TFT-LCD displays. You're also sure to appreciate its superior camera, which features a dedicated shutter button and LED flash. Like the Arrive (which lacks 4G), it provides an excellent five-row QWERTY keyboard. We do appreciate the EVO Shift 4G's longer battery life, and this may factor into your decision (as both devices support WiMAX), but the Epic 4G's strengths are impossible to ignore.If you're looking to squeeze every penny... Holy smokes, can it be true? Our previous top choice on Sprint now occupies the carrier's value position. Folks, this is a steal any way you look at it. The Nexus S holds a very special place in our hearts at Engadget, and it's still one of our favorite phones on the market today. The Sprint version offers enhanced WiMAX speed, and now that its nasty connectivity troubles are out of the way, this stock Android sweetheart can hold its head high once again. Okay, so it's not for everyone. It lacks a notification light and Google axed its integration with Facebook, but if you're willing to overlook these minor details, you'll find a remarkable handset that's free of carrier bloat and operates with the beautiful simplicity of Gingerbread. Further, if you're curious about Google Wallet, the Nexus S 4G remains your best choice going forward. T-Mobile If a keyboard is what you're after... It's sad to see the G2 fade from T-Mobile's lineup, but fortunately for users who demand physical keys, it was usurped by a respectable replacement. The myTouch 4G Slide ($250 before mail-in rebate) pairs a sliding QWERTY keyboard with Sensation 4G internals. Sadly, it's appreciably less responsive than its larger sibling -- and we weren't completely thrilled with the 3.7-inch S-LCD display, the battery life or the keyboard -- but it's the clear choice for this category. Fortunately, those who care about camera quality will want to take particular notice, as the myTouch 4G Slide produces truly outstanding images and combines an excellent two-stage shutter button. While it's not without compromise, if you insist on a keyboard, you'll most likely be content with HTC's latest offering.If you're looking to squeeze every penny... Verizon If a keyboard is what you're after... Verizon has two interesting choices for QWERTY lovers, but sadly, we're only able to recommend one of them. While the BlackBerry Bold 9930 ($250) isn't for everyone, it currently bests its closest competitor, the Droid 3 ($200), which suffers from a host of frustrating software glitches. It's certainly possible that Motorola may fix these issues, but we're currently contending with troubles such as spontaneous reboots and annoyances with the camera software. Meanwhile, the Bold 9930 offers one of the best keyboards we've ever encountered, along with excellent battery life, snappy performance and a very attractive (though comparatively small) display. Further, users will find the BlackBerry features excellent styling and are likely to appreciate its world phone capabilities. Sure, its camera isn't the best, and we're growing weary of RIM's aging OS, but if the keyboard is most important to you, it's hard to go wrong with the Bold 9930.If you're looking to squeeze every penny... US Cellular Cricket, MetroPCS and Virgin Mobile Cincinnati Bell Unlocked smartphones  While the Galaxy S II may very well be the ultimate travel companion, if you're looking for an excellent unlocked alternative that runs pure Android and can be purchased with a generous subsidy, look no further than the Nexus S. It comes in two flavors, one that supports AT&T's 1800 and 850MHz bands, and another which support's T-Mobile's 1700MHz AWS spectrum. Both models are compatible with the 1900 and 900MHz standards for use while abroad. Better yet, if you're keen to the latest that Android has to offer, the Nexus S has historically been the quickest to receive updates from Google -- thanks in large part to its stock Android underpinnings. Sadly, it only features 7.2Mbps HSDPA and like the Nexus S 4G, it lacks integration with Facebook contacts -- although, the former has little "real world" consequence, and the latter is quite easy to overcome with a custom ROM. |
| GameStop to bring Android-based gaming tablet to market Posted: 12 Sep 2011 09:03 AM PDT  |
| Orb Live finally lands for Android: streams video, delivers Hulu without the Plus Posted: 12 Sep 2011 08:39 AM PDT  [Image credit: GigaOM] |
| 3M makes Mary Lou Jepsen's dreams come true, showers Pixel Qi with cash Posted: 12 Sep 2011 08:16 AM PDT  September 12, 2011 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time 3M Invests in Pixel Qi Corp. ST. PAUL, Minn. & SAN BRUNO, Calif. & TAIPEI, Taiwan--(BUSINESS WIRE)--3M, through its 3M New Ventures organization, has invested in Pixel Qi Corp., a developer of next generation LCD panels with operations in Taiwan and California. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Founded by LCD pioneer, Dr. Mary Lou Jepsen in 2008, Pixel Qi designs unique, innovative LCD screens that solve problems not addressed by conventional screens. Its first products are sunlight-readable, low-power LCD panels aimed for mobile device applications. As consumers increasingly rely on connected, mobile devices in their daily lives, there is a growing, unmet requirement for display devices that offer portability, connectivity, long battery life and excellent indoor/outdoor readability in one device. Current displays are not able to solve all of these challenges simultaneously. Pixel Qi's unique technology platform eliminates the need for trade-offs and enables high quality, outdoor or sunlight viewing with excellent battery life and portability in one device. The combination of its technologies with those of 3M will create excellent new opportunities for both companies. "Pixel Qi's full-function color screen technology, for the first time, gives consumers an outdoor-readable video display with exceptional battery life, usable anywhere, anytime. It's a first in the industry. In our collaboration with 3M, we have the ability to accelerate this into mass adoption," said Mary Lou Jepsen, co-founder and CEO of Pixel Qi. The funding led by 3M New Ventures will play a key role in enabling Pixel Qi to develop its product offerings into volume consumer markets as well as digital signage and touch applications. The investment, which successfully concludes Pixel Qi's second (series "B") investment round, will also allow Pixel Qi to build and to strengthen its engineering and sales capabilities. Stefan Gabriel, president of 3M New Ventures said, "Pixel Qi's technology enables displays of such lower power and high usability that the vision of ubiquitous displays comes much closer to realization. In combining Pixel Qi's disruptive display technology with our technology platforms, we can create new business opportunities in the consumer and commercial markets for 3M." 3M's Optical Systems Division is a world leader in the specialized films used inside liquid crystal displays to optimize the light throughput. Pixel Qi's innovative LCD designs use such film technologies, and other advances, to create novel displays and enable the best outdoor readable, power efficient displays available on the market. "By addressing the energy consumption and sunlight readability challenges in one package, Pixel Qi provides a ground-breaking solution for the next generation of displays," said Jim Bauman, vice president, 3M Optical Systems Division. "The combination of Pixel Qi's low energy, reflective display technology with 3M's innovative technologies will create exciting products for the mobile, handheld, tablet and other display markets." Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions. All statements other than statements of historical fact are statements that could be deemed forward-looking statements, including any statements of the future plans, strategies and objectives of management. Other risks, uncertainties and assumptions are described in 3M's SEC reports, including but not limited to the risks described under "Cautionary Note Concerning Factors That May Affect Future Results" and "Risk Factors" in Part I, Items 1 and 1A of the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010 and in Part 1, Item 2 and Part II, Item 1A of its subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q. 3M assumes no obligation and does not intend to update these forward-looking statements. |
| Fusion Garage hacks $200 off of Grid 10 tablet, aims to play the undercutting game Posted: 12 Sep 2011 07:35 AM PDT  Update: A Fusion Garage spokesperson told Engadget that the company had planned to launch with the lower price all along, but negotiations with an ODM made it impossible to announce the price earlier. The company also added that the Grid 10 will experience a slight shipping delay, being pushed back to October 1st due to a "new criteria in [the] Adobe Flash Player (FP) 10.3 approval process." [Thanks, Jeff] |
| Sealander amphibious trailer lets you (kinda) rough it on the water (video) Posted: 12 Sep 2011 07:34 AM PDT  |
| Broadcom buys NetLogic Microsystems for $3.7b in cash, hopes to add more processors to lineup Posted: 12 Sep 2011 07:09 AM PDT  Broadcom to Acquire NetLogic Microsystems, Inc., a Leader in Network Communications Processors Combination to Deliver Seamless End-to-End Network Infrastructure Platforms Conference Call Webcasted on Broadcom and NetLogic Microsystems Websites at 5:00 am PT / 8.00 am ET www.broadcom.com/investors and investors.netlogicmicro.com IRVINE and SANTA CLARA, Calif., Sept. 12, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Broadcom Corporation (Nasdaq: BRCM), a global innovation leader in semiconductor solutions for wired and wireless communications, and NetLogic Microsystems, Inc. (Nasdaq: NETL), a leader in high performance intelligent semiconductor solutions for next generation networks, today announced they have entered into a definitive merger agreement. Under the agreement, NetLogic Microsystems shareholders will receive $50 per share in a transaction of approximately $3.7 billion, net of cash assumed. The acquisition meaningfully extends Broadcom's infrastructure portfolio with a number of critical new product lines and technologies, including knowledge-based processors, multi-core embedded processors, and digital front-end processors, each of which offers industry-leading performance and capabilities. The combination enables Broadcom to deliver best-in-class, seamlessly-integrated network infrastructure platforms to its customers, reducing both their time-to-market and their development costs. The transaction has been approved by the Broadcom and NetLogic Microsystems boards of directors and is subject to customary closing conditions, including the receipt of domestic and foreign regulatory clearances and the approval of NetLogic Microsystems' stockholders. The transaction is expected to close in the first half of 2012. Broadcom currently expects the acquisition to be accretive to earnings per share by approximately $0.10 on a non-GAAP basis in 2012. "This transaction delivers on all fronts for Broadcom's shareholders -- strategic fit, leading-edge technology and significant financial upside," said Scott McGregor, Broadcom's President and CEO. "With NetLogic Microsystems, Broadcom is acquiring a leading multi-core embedded processor solution, market leading knowledge-based processors, and unique digital front-end technology for wireless base stations that are key enablers for the next generation infrastructure build-out. Broadcom is now better positioned to meet growing customer demand for integrated, end-to-end communications and processing platforms for network infrastructure." Mr. McGregor added, "Today's transaction is consistent with Broadcom's strategic portfolio review process and with our focus on value creation through disciplined capital allocation while delivering best-in-class platforms for customers in the fastest growing segments of the communications industry." "This is a strong win for customers, for shareholders and for NetLogic Microsystems employees," said Ron Jankov, NetLogic Microsystems President and CEO. "Our industry-leading product portfolio will benefit from access to Broadcom's broad set of leading-edge technologies, tools, resources and eco-system, which will enable the combined company to offer a complete and integrated platform for our customers' next generation designs. Our employees will benefit from the strong cultural alignment with Broadcom, and from joining forces with an equally aggressive and energetic organization with the same relentless focus on engineering excellence and innovation." Broadcom today also reiterated its business outlook for the third quarter of 2011. Broadcom expects revenue around the middle of the previously-guided range of $1.9 billion and $2.0 billion, GAAP product gross margins of flat to up slightly and GAAP research & development and selling, general and administrative expenses of flat to down $10 million in the third quarter of 2011. By the end of the third quarter, Broadcom also expects to have approximately $4.2 billion in cash and cash equivalents on hand, up from approximately $3.8 billion at the end of the second quarter. Broadcom and NetLogic Microsystems will conduct a conference call with analysts and investors to discuss Broadcom's proposed acquisition of NetLogic Microsystems today at 5:00am Pacific Time (8:00am Eastern Time). Both companies will broadcast the conference call via webcast over the Internet. To listen to the webcast, please visit the Investors section of either the Broadcom or NetLogic Microsystems websites at www.broadcom.com/investors and investors.netlogicmicro.com. The webcast will be recorded and available for replay, within 48 hours after the event, until 10:00 p.m. Pacific Time on October 12 2011. |
| AT&T announces Windows Phone Mango lineup coming this fall, existing devices to be updated Posted: 12 Sep 2011 06:48 AM PDT  As for the fall lineup, there doesn't seem to be a slacker in the bunch. The Focus S will have a 4.3-inch Super AMOLED Plus display, 1.4GHz CPU and an 8 megapixel rear camera that accompanies a 1.3 megapixel front-facing cam for video chat. Also bearing Mango is the Samsung Focus Flash, considered the lower-end offering by Sammy, which still brandishes a 3.7-inch Super AMOLED screen -- no Plus involved on this one -- as well as a 1.4GHz CPU and 5 megapixel rear shooter and front-facing camera that for now has no specified resolution. Each of the phones are expected to arrive in the fourth quarter, and the existing lineup should be on the receiving end of the update sometime "this fall." This is just the beginning of the impending flood, so we can't wait to see what else is around the corner. AT&T Expands Windows Phone Leadership Plans to Introduce Three New 4G Windows Phones in Fourth Quarter and Update all Existing Windows Phones Dallas, Texas, September 12, 2011 ShareThis Key Facts AT&T*, the U.S. leader in Windows® Phones, announced plans to add new Windows Phones running Windows Phone 7.5, code-named "Mango", and update its current portfolio. New 4G Windows Phones in the fourth quarter include products from HTC and Samsung. AT&T sells more Windows Phones than any other carrier. AT&T will be among the first carriers to start updating existing phones and all Windows Phones already sold by AT&T will receive the Windows Phone 7.5 update this fall. The Leader in Windows Phones Outselling all other carriers, AT&T is the clear leader in Windows Phones. Offering the broadest portfolio of Windows Phones today, AT&T will build upon that success with three new 4G devices, two from Samsung and one from HTC. In addition AT&T will be among the first carriers to deliver the Mango update to existing Windows Phone 7 customers this fall. Samsung Focus S The Samsung Focus™ S builds on the success of the award-winning and highest selling Windows Phone in the U.S., the Samsung Focus™. Featuring a 4.3-inch Super AMOLED Plus display, 1.4GHz processor, 4G-capable speeds and a thin profile at 8.55 millimeters. It includes front facing 1.3-megapixel and a rear facing 8-megapixel cameras. The Samsung Focus S will find its way into a lot of pockets this fall. HTC TITAN Debuting as the largest screen in AT&T's smartphone portfolio at 4.7 inches, HTC TITAN™ fits comfortably in the palm of your hand. Watch video from AT&T U-Verse Mobile or play Xbox LIVE® games on the largest screen yet for a Windows Phone. Running a 1.5 GHz processor and an 8-megapixel camera with dual LED flash, HTC TITAN will feed the senses. Samsung Focus Flash Designed to hit the market packed with value, Samsung Focus™ Flash's 3.7-inch Super AMOLED screen will both fit in pockets and be light on pocketbooks with the full power of Windows Phone 7.5 inside. As fast and lightweight as it is compact, it runs a 1.4 GHz processor and a 5-megapixel camera plus front facing camera. Mango Update AT&T will be among the first to offer the Windows Phone Mango update to its leading portfolio of Windows Phones this fall. Current Windows Phones from AT&T include: HTC HD7S™ HTC Surround™ LG Quantum™ Samsung Focus™ With its unique user interface complete with colorful Live Tiles, the next version of Windows Phone, code-named Mango, puts people front and center making it easier to connect and share with friends, family and colleagues so important moments are never missed. Windows Phone has modern communication built in. Only Windows Phone has a People Hub with one touch access to Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter, all built right in. You can group your friends, pin them to your Start screen to get live updates and easily text, email and IM them all at once. Windows Phone even has Facebook Chat, Messenger, check-ins and photo tagging all built-in so you can stay connected without missing a moment. Windows Phone has the apps you need but takes them a step further. Pin your apps to your Start screen for live updates at a glance. And only Windows Phone connects apps to your searches making them easier to discover and use. Windows Phone brings you the Internet beyond the browser. It delivers a fast, beautiful web experience with Internet Explorer 9 and hardware acceleration – but it doesn't stop there. Local Scout provides suggestions and prioritized local search results on restaurants, shopping and things to do so you can live like a local no matter where you are. |
| Wacom Inkling digital sketch pen hands-on (video) Posted: 12 Sep 2011 06:40 AM PDT  The Inkling comes in a funky travel case that doubles-up as a USB charger for both the pen and its accompanying receiver. It also has slots for spare standard-sized ball-point nibs, which looked great all lined up like little soldiers of creativity. Unfortunately, the interior plastic felt cheap in some places, particularly around the hooks for the USB cable. This lent the case an air of "good from far; far from good" and we think Wacom missed an opportunity to come up with something more special.  The pen is released with a nice push-to-pop motion and, once freed, it seemed thin and light enough for comfortable use -- although we only had time to draw a few scribbles with it. It's still significantly thicker than a plain ball-point pen because it contains IR and ultrasonic components needed to communicate its precise movements to the receiver.   There's a dedicated LED that flashes green every time you draw something, reassuring you that your masterpiece is being received loud and clear. This connection will be easily broken if your hands get in the way -- for example if you use a ruler without being careful -- or if you try to use the receiver on anything bigger than A4/Letter-sized paper. Finally, the clamp only opens wide enough to grip up to around 10 sheets of notebook paper, so don't even think about clipping it onto a drawing board.  You need to use Wacom's own software to translate the raw files on the receiver into something usable on your PC. If you created separate layers while sketching, each one is displayed as a separate page in the software, which can be exported or treated (e.g. colored) on its own. Alternatively, you can export the whole lot, either as a bitmap with a default resolution of 600dpi, or as a vector. If you want to export the whole sketch but still keep each layer separate in your final graphics page, then you needed to be using Photoshop, Illustrator, Sketchbook Pro or Sketchbook Designer. Photoshop Elements, CoralDraw and other titles won't import multi-layer files from Wacom's software. Stay tuned for our full review of the Inkling (from a member of the Engadget team who can actually draw) when it finally becomes available in the next few weeks. Wacom has an Inkling Digital sketch pen bridges the gap between traditional, freehand sketching and digital development by capturing a digital likeness of a pen-on-paper sketch. Today, Wacom® introduces Inkling, a new digital sketch pen that captures a digital likeness of your work while you sketch with its ballpoint tip on any sketchbook or standard piece of paper. Designed for rough concepting and creative brainstorming, Inkling bridges the gap between paper sketching and digital drawing by giving users at the front end of the creative process a way to rough-out ideas with real ink on paper and capture their concepts digitally so that they can be later refined on their computer. Inkling even allows users to create layers in the digital file while sketching on paper in the following creative software applications: Adobe® Photoshop®, Adobe® Illustrator® and Autodesk® Sketchbook® Pro. Spontaneous and Liberating Virtually anyone who uses sketching to capture their creative ideas and wants to have their drawings in a digital format to e-mail, archive or further refine on their computer can benefit from Inkling. For example, artists, illustrators, or storyboarders who appreciate the convenience, speed and spontaneity of loosely sketching their ideas on paper could profit from the capabilities of Wacom's Inkling digital sketch pen. In everyday use, a graphic designer could use Inkling to create rough concepts on paper for a new advertising campaign and then review and share these concepts on the computer with colleagues or clients. The pen and receiver store and recharge in a compact case making it easy to transport Inkling between, home, office, hotel or any typical workspace. "Inkling's inspiration comes from a desire to give artistic people the freedom to draw on paper and to provide an easy way to transition the drawings to digital media," said Guido Möller, product manager professional brands at Wacom Europe. Inkling Specifics The Inkling digital sketch pen is comprised of both hardware and software components. Hardware includes both the pen and a wireless receiver that captures a likeness of the sketch and stores it digitally. The ballpoint pen uses Wacom's pressure sensing technology (1024 levels of sensitivity) to detect how hard the pen is being pressed to the paper while sketching. These pressure variations will appear in the digital version of your drawing. "Through its pressure sensitivity, Inkling captures the varied line weights created by the ink pen," adds Möller. The receiver can be clipped to the edge of standard paper or sketchbooks and the position can be adjusted for left- or right-handed users to provide the receiver with an uninterrupted line of sight with the pen tip. When sketching is complete, the receiver is connected to the user's computer via USB to transfer the digital files. Files can be opened with the included Inkling Sketch Manager software to edit, delete or add layers as well as to change formats and transfer the files for adjustment and editing in creative software applications. Inkling can store thousands of sketches and export layered files directly to Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator (CS3 or newer), as well as Autodesk Sketchbook Pro (2011). Alternatively, files can be saved in JPG, BMP, TIFF, PNG, SVG and PDF formats for use with other applications. According to Möller, "Inkling's support of raster based applications such as Adobe Photoshop, as well as vector based applications such as Illustrator and Autodesk Sketchbook Designer, will provide users with options for incorporating their preliminary sketches into further developed work". The Ideal Companion for Intuos® and Cintiq® Users of Wacom Intuos pen tablets and Cintiq interactive pen displays gain extra benefits by adding an Inkling to their creative toolbox. "For those working with our professional products, the pen is already their input tool of choice," continued Möller. "Inkling can deliver an immediate ROI to these users by delivering an accelerated and more mobile workflow resulting in digital files that can easily and quickly be transferred to their home or office computer and redrawn using the Intuos or Cintiq pen." Pricing and availability The new Inkling sketch pen is priced at 149.99 ￡ (including VAT) and will be available from October 2011 onwards. Find out more about Inkling at http://inkling.wacom.com or have a look at the product video product video on Wacom Europe's YouTube Channel at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3fQe0YSLm88 . Wacom Creative Pros at Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/WacomCreativePros |
| HTC chairwoman Cher Wang: we might buy a mobile OS, if it feels right Posted: 12 Sep 2011 06:09 AM PDT  |
| Cowon D3 firmware hits 3.5, gives your Gingerbread PMP a spit shine Posted: 12 Sep 2011 05:48 AM PDT  [Thanks, Greg] |
| Crickey! Nokia's N9 goes up for preorder in Australia Posted: 12 Sep 2011 05:26 AM PDT  [Thanks, Louis] |
| Sinch takes aim at headphone tangles, we go hands-on Posted: 12 Sep 2011 05:00 AM PDT  The simple packaging for the Sinch doubles as an instruction manual, a few pictures showing you how to use the thing. Spoiler alert: you stick the business end of your headphone cable in through the hole on one end, then wind the rest around your phone or player like normal, leaving the Sinch wedged in between the cable and the device. When you've wrapped enough, clap one magnetic end of the thing over to the other and, hey presto, your cabled life just got a little tidier. If your device has a metal case (hello, iPod touch) it's even more effective, but even on the plastic-backed Droid Charge it worked like a charm.  The Sinch is the product of a collaboration between Dune Road Design and Frog (the company behind the recent dual-screened Android prototype we gave you an early look at), and while it isn't necessarily more effective than the myriad other cable organizers out there, the big advantage here is size: the Sinch is so small and light you won't even notice it. You might notice the cost: $15.99, which seems steep for a hunk of rubber and a couple little lodestones. $9.99 would have been more appropriate, but if you hate tangles and like traveling light, give it a go. Or, if you don't mind making a little more noise, there's always Velcro. The Sinch Invades North America Aiming to Rid the World of Cord Chaos Smart Device Assistant, Designed by frog, Uses the Magic of Magnets to Keep Headphones Organized NEW YORK, September 12, 2011 – When it comes to managing their messy headphones, Americans want a better way to live tangle-free. In fact, a recent survey* of more than 2,000 adults shows that 88 percent wish there was a way to keep their headphone cords from tangling. The survey, commissioned by Dune Road Design LLC, maker of the Sinch, also revealed that more than two-thirds of wired headphone users are frustrated by tangled cords and more than half spend at least a minute per day untangling their cords. Fortunately, the Sinch-a new, high-design answer to the problem of keeping smart device cords tangle-free-is now available for purchase in black or white for $15.99 through Facebook and www.thesinch.com. Additional colors and new, complementary products will be available shortly. "The Sinch was founded out of a moment of pure tangled frustration," said Wayne Rothbaum of Dune Road Design and inventor of the Sinch. "I knew this was a problem that many people face, especially those who take pride in the quality and appearance of their personal electronic devices." The secrets of the Sinch lie in its design; an elastic band encapsulates magnets that attach to the audio plug on any smart device headset. Users can then do what they naturally do – wrap their headphones around their device then secure the cords with the Sinch. Unlike other products, this is the only headphone organizer that keeps cords connected to the device for convenient access, but still allows users to remove and store their bundled cords. The sleek and simple design, created by leading innovation firm frog, makes it lightweight, low-profile and transferable to multiple devices. "At its core, the Sinch product is a great example of how frog designers and engineers work together with clients to solve an everyday problem – in this case, tangled headphone cords – with an innovative, elegant solution," said Robert Curtis, executive director of product design at frog. "We are thrilled by our collaboration with Dune Road Design, which extends beyond the design of the product itself. We worked closely with the company from early ideation to product industrialization." The marketing campaign promoting the launch of the Sinch continues to generate buzz online. Consumers can see the "Invasion of The Sinch" unfold by following the fictitious investigative reporter, Rick Sims of The Sims Report, who keeps the public informed on strange happenings through a video series, Twitter account, and detailed blog. Taking a cue from classic horror and science-fiction films, the Invasion campaign plays up the dangers caused by cord tanglement and introduces consumers to the Sinch in a surprising way. To learn more about the Sinch and experience the Invasion, please visit its social channels: Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter. * This survey was conducted online within the United States by Harris Interactive on behalf of Dune Road Design LLC. Harris Interactive polled 2,148 adults ages 18 and older from August 2 through 4, 2011. This survey is not based on a probability sample and therefore no estimate of theoretical sampling error can be calculated. For complete survey methodology, including weighting variables, please contact Lauren Begley at lbegley@peppercom.com. About The Sinch The Sinch is a new brand dedicated to good design and smart engineering. The product line from Dune Road Design LLC aims to protect and organize personal electronic devices. The first product is a smart device assistant that keeps headphones safe, snug and tangle-free. For more information, visit www.thesinch.com. |
| White PS3 coming to Europe and Australia in November Posted: 12 Sep 2011 04:33 AM PDT  |
| Smartphones out-ship feature phones in Europe, Samsung leads the way Posted: 12 Sep 2011 03:30 AM PDT  [Thanks, Pauly] Smartphones Outstrip Feature Phones for First Time in Western Europe as Android Sees Strong Growth in 2Q11, Says IDC 09 Sep 2011 LONDON, September 9, 2011 - Western European feature phone shipments continued to decline sharply in 2Q11 as consumers increasingly move to smartphones, according to the latest European Mobile Phone Tracker from International Data Corporation (IDC). Feature phone shipments were down 29% to 20.4 million units in 2Q11, while smartphone shipments increased 48% to 21.8 million units from a year ago. The total Western European mobile phone market, however, declined 3% year on year to 42.2 million units in the quarter, according to IDC. This is the first time that smartphone shipments have surpassed feature phone shipments in Western Europe, representing 52% of total mobile phone shipments. All European countries are seeing increasing smartphone adoption, as consumers go for Android-based devices and the iPhone from Apple. On the other hand, mobile operators stopped subsidizing feature phones in Europe some time ago now, which has made the devices less attractive to users. Feature phones are becoming a niche segment driven by the very-low-end devices targeted at users who only need a device for voice and texts. "This quarter was particularly important from the device type perspective," said Francisco Jeronimo, European mobile devices research manager, IDC. "Smartphones now dominate the Western European phone market and those vendors with stronger portfolios in the segment are consolidating their positions, compared with those manufacturers with less attractive smart devices. Android-powered handsets from the likes of Samsung, HTC, and Sony Ericsson have been able to drive strong volumes and to grab the biggest slice of share from the declining Symbian as Nokia moves to Windows Phones." Jeronimo said, however, that the overall market had slipped into the red due to a number of factors: "First, the economic environment in the eurozone is deteriorating, with a direct impact on consumer demand. Secondly, the smartphone segment was strongly impacted by the sharp decline of Nokia, which was not totally offset by the remaining players, which may indicate that Symbian fans are holding off on their phone replacements until Nokia launches its Windows Phones. Lastly, operators focused on clearing inventories for the introduction of the new devices expected in the third quarter, such as the iPhone5 from Apple and Windows Phones from HTC and other players." Android OS strengthened its leadership in the region, with shipments up 352% year on year to 10.5 million units, which represented 48.5% of total smartphone shipments. Samsung was the most representative Android manufacturer, supported by the success of the Galaxy devices family. |
| Paraswift climbs buildings, jumps, lives to tell the tale (video) Posted: 12 Sep 2011 02:02 AM PDT  |
| Amazon to launch Netflix-style service for digital books? Posted: 12 Sep 2011 12:33 AM PDT  Details are still sketchy here, but the Wall Street Journal is reporting that Amazon's looking to launch a Netflix-like subscription service for digital books, much to the chagrin of some publishers. According to unnamed sources familiar with the matter, Amazon is currently "in talks" with several publishers about the program, which would provide access to an online library in exchange for an unspecified annual fee. The insiders also claim that the service would be available for Amazon Prime subscribers (who currently pay $79 per year for free shipping and access to shows and movies) and that the proposed library would feature primarily older works, with monthly restrictions on the number of books a subscriber could read for free. Publishers would reportedly pocket a "substantial fee" for signing on to the program, though some are reluctant to participate, for fear that doing so would "downgrade the value of the book business," according to one publishing exec. In fact, it remains unclear whether any publishers have thrown their hats in the ring, but we'll certainly be on the lookout for any developments. |
| AirPlay-enabled Music Tap systems touted by Pioneer, free us from living room control Posted: 11 Sep 2011 11:03 PM PDT   Pioneer Music Tap Systems Incorporate Airplay Pioneer Music Tap Systems Feature Network Compatibility for Wireless Music Streaming Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. today expanded its family of Apple AirPlay®-compatible products with the launch of two networked AirPlay music systems called Music Tap. Available in Pioneer ($399) and Elite® ($479) branded models, the Music Tap systems offer music lovers more ways to access and enjoy their music throughout their entire home regardless of where or how the music is stored. With AirPlay, enthusiasts have complete access, control and playback of their entire iTunes music library through their Music Tap system connected to the home network, wirelessly or using Ethernet. Both Music Taps feature built-in WiFi™ to enable wireless music connection using AirPlay, DLNA® 1.5, vTuner™ Internet radio, Pioneer's proprietary AirJam1 app for iPhone®, iPod touch® and iPad® and a 2.5-inch full-color LCD display. "By incorporating AirPlay into more of our product lines, first with audio/video receivers and now with Music Tap, Pioneer is making it possible for consumers to quickly access and listen to their iTunes® music library throughout the home," said Chris Walker, director AV marketing and product planning for the home entertainment division of Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. "These new systems are great additions to any room or office. Although they're compact, they produce 'larger-than-life' sound, and because both models are also equipped with a wireless connection, multiple units can be easily placed in different rooms." AirPlay Connectivity * Music Tap systems enable users to quickly and easily enjoy all their music content with song information and album art simultaneously displayed on a connected monitor/TV. AirPlay requires iTunes 10.1 or later, or iPad, iPad 2, iPhone 3GS, iPhone 4, iPod touch (2nd, 3rd or 4th generation) with iOS 4.2 or later. Using Apple's Remote app on iPad, iPhone or iPod touch also enables users to control, browse and access their iTunes music library on a Mac or PC and play it through Music Tap. Apple's Remote App is available for free from the App Store on iPad, iPhone or iPod touch at www.iTunes.com/appstore/. * Connection to Music Streaming Services – In addition to the music saved in an iTunes library, the Music Tap systems support AirPlay-enabled apps like PANDORA® Internet radio, iHeartRadio® and other music streaming service apps, giving consumers access to a virtually endless playlist. * Crystal Clear Sound – Music Tap's Apple Lossless capability ensures that users will always enjoy high-quality audio with no degradation in sound quality when listening to music encoded with this high-resolution format. * Music Throughout The Home – Music Tap is a great addition to an AirPlay-enabled Pioneer AV receiver for music in any room of the house. Using iTunes 10.1 or later on a Mac or PC, users can wirelessly stream their music to multiple Music Tap systems throughout the home. Additional Network Features * DLNA 1.5 Certified – Music Tap's DLNA 1.5 Certification allows consumers to stream their music wirelessly via a home network from any DLNA 1.5 Certified device. Users can conveniently enjoy high-resolution audio playback with support for FLAC and WAV files from DLNA certified networked device in the home. * vTuner™ – Pioneer adds vTuner Internet radio to Music Tap for endless music entertainment. With vTuner, users have access to more than 16,000 Internet radio stations around the world. From the on-screen display, users can choose from different genres, station locations or simply search for specific stations. * Air Jam – First introduced as a feature in its line of AV receivers, Pioneer's free Air Jam app is also available in the Music Tap systems (optional AS-BT200 Bluetooth adapter required for the Pioneer model). The Air Jam App is available from the App Store on iPad, iPhone or iPod touch or at www.iTunes.com/appstore/and connects up to four Apple devices via Bluetooth® to create a collective playlist for playback on Music Tap. Once linked, each user can cue songs from their own music libraries to create the shared playlist. Each connected device also displays the list of songs added by all users and which device a song plays from. The Air Jam App conveniently stores the lists of songs created for each session for future purchases at the iTunes Store. Functionality and Design * The Music Tap systems are "Made for iPhone and iPod" and come with an integrated pop-out dock for playback and charging. * For a high quality listening experience, the music systems are equipped with a 2-channel digital amplifier to deliver clean and powerful audio to any room. Dual full range drivers in a passive radiator enclosure produce clear crisp high frequencies complemented by deep, accurate bass. The Pioneer Elite model has been tuned by Pioneer's renowned TAD director of speaker engineering, Andrew Jones. In addition, the Elite model incorporates built-in Bluetooth and includes a two-year warranty. * Both AirPlay music systems offer an auxiliary input for connecting other audio devices with a mini jack (headphone) output. For added convenience, both models also feature a USB port located in the front of the system. USB devices such as hard drives, thumb and flash drives with MP3, WAV, WMA, AAC LPCM, and FLAC files can all be accessed using the included remote control. For added convenience, both systems feature a control app for iPod touch, iPhone and iPad, available on the App Store. Pioneer Music Tap systems will be available to consumers in October 2011. |
| HP TopShot LaserJet Pro M275 scans 3D objects but only prints in 2D (video) Posted: 11 Sep 2011 08:59 PM PDT  For some reason, HP thinks your small business really needs the ability to scan 3D objects -- which is why it is releasing the TopShot LaserJet Pro. "TopShot" is the fancy name for the all-in-one's overhanging arm with a high resolution camera, which combines six images (three with flashes from different angles, and three in ambient light conditions with different exposure levels) to mimic a studio-like product shot. What's more, thanks to the Biz Card app, the TopShot can scan and import multiple business cards simultaneously. Also included are Google Documents integration and cloud apps as well as the usual ePrint and AirPrint features, which you can run without a computer on the 3.5-inch touchscreen. HP isn't talking about pricing or availability, but you can see a walkthrough of the TopShot after the break. |
| How would you change Samsung's Galaxy Tab 10.1? Posted: 11 Sep 2011 07:27 PM PDT  |
| Inhabitat's Week in Green: 9/11 Memorial designs, an electric helicopter and laser headlights Posted: 11 Sep 2011 06:04 PM PDT Each week our friends at Inhabitat recap the week's most interesting green developments and clean tech news for us -- it's the Week in Green.  It was also a record-breaking week for green transportation as the world's first manned electric helicopter took flight and scientists developed the world's tiniest electric motor. Meanwhile, pedal-powered transportation got a major boost as Hertz launched an electric bike rental program in London and Silverback unveiled a series of bikes with built-in USB chargers for your gadgets. We also brought you the latest news from the Frankfurt Auto Show as Rimac teased the unveiling of its 1,000 horsepower electric supercar and Audi and BMW both unveiled vehicles endowed with ultra bright next-gen laser headlights. Speaking of shining examples of green design, this week we brought you a first look at the Samsung Galaxy Skin concept phone, which features a flexible AMOLED display that can fold to fit inside your pocket. We also saw several inspiring ways to reduce waste as scientists worked on a fuel cell that generates power while cleaning up nuclear fallout, Think Geek brought us a clever set of Fridgeezoo icebox pets that encourage kids to save energy, and we looked at Sloan's innovative AQUS grey water toilet system that recycles your sink water. Finally, we brought you the state of the art in wearable tech as we reported that scientists developed a Terahertz "Invisibility Cloak" and researchers discovered a coral reef secret that could lead to sunscreen in a pill in five years. |
| Acer Iconia Tab A501 with HSPA+ hits AT&T on September 18th: $330 on contract Posted: 11 Sep 2011 05:05 PM PDT  As promised, the Acer Iconia Tab A501 is hitting AT&T just before summer draws to an official close. The carrier just announced it'll start selling the 16GB model next Sunday, September 18th for $480 -- or $330 with a two-year contract. When we first heard about this way back in March, we knew it would be a "4G" device, and today AT&T clarified that this means HSPA+, not LTE, so sorry to burst anyone's bubble. Even so, five months after the A500 went on sale it remains one of a select few slates with a full-sized USB port, so there's that to consider if you're still on the fence about getting a tablet. As planned, it'll ship with Android 3.0, and an Acer rep confirms 3.1 is coming via an over-the-air update, though she couldn't say when, exactly, that'll happen. You can sign up for a monthly plan, if you so choose, though you can also pay as you go, with $15 getting you 250MB and $25 expanding your allowance to 2GB. Customers who commit to two-year agreements will have the same choices, to be honest, except they'll also have to contend with overage fees -- $10 per gigabyte or $15 per 250MB, depending on the plan. Update: We've added Acer's official press release below. Heads up: you'll notice that Acer lists the price as $499.99 for the 16GB model and $549.99 for the 32GB version. That's just the manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP). It doesn't say so in the press release, but AT&T confirmed to us before we published this story that it will actually be selling the 16GB version only, and for $480 (again, that $330 with a two-year contract). Update 2: We've swapped in AT&T's press release, which fully spells out the pricing. MAXIMIZE ENTERTAINMENT ON THE GO WITH THE |
| Switched On: A toy for the smartphone gaming generation Posted: 11 Sep 2011 04:17 PM PDT Each week Ross Rubin contributes Switched On, a column about consumer technology.  The pieces fit comfortably between two fingers for easy gripping, flipping and rearranging, which you'll need to do a lot of in their various games. They are also a good size to substitute for many handheld playthings, reminding one of overstuffed Mahjongg tiles but also akin to shrunken toddlers' alphabet blocks or playing cards. The sides and back are otherwise nondescript except for a set of contacts on their rear used for charging. Sifteo Cubes are charged via their tray, which showcases them through a translucent plastic top with room for three more Cubes at $45 each. Different games derive different levels of benefit from having more than three tiles, but most work fine with the starter set. The Cubes' color screens -- while only 1.5-inches across and having a 128 x 128-pixel resolution -- are really the key to the system's versatility. They are not touchscreens as your finger would take up a large portion of their surface, but do work as a single clickable button. Beneath those screens lie a host of sensors. Cubes can tell when they are touching each other's sides, tilted, flipped or shaken. By loading different games onto the Cubes, one can completely change how they are played with. Games are sideloaded onto the Cubes from a PC or Mac using software that doubles as Sifteo's app store. This requires use of a small USB wireless adapter that can be docked in the charging box when not in use. In fact, one of the drawbacks of this initial release is that the PC or Mac must always be near the Cubes even once games have started since the Cubes have no speakers and the computer handles (perfectly synchronized) audio output. As is, the Cubes last for about three hours of play on a full charge. The generally high-minded and conceptually simple games, which Sifteo says focus on "intelligent play," feature genres of strategy, puzzles, education and fast reflexes. That may sound a lot like many smartphone games, and indeed the prices and play value are similar, but the game mechanics are not. One basic difference, for example, is that Sifteo Cubes are played with on a table as opposed to on a device you keep in your hands. This makes for a potentially more openly social experience. A couple of games, for example, rely on one continually rearranging the cubes to evolve a pathway that serves as a path toward a goal or away from an enemy. Another is an interesting twist on the Bejewled genre in which Cubes must be rearranged so that colored patterns of dots align. At this stage, some games are little more than mini-games or proofs of concept. A good example of this is 'Do the Sift,' a Bop-It-like game in which you're asked to manipulate certain Cubes while leaving others alone. The experience of its delightfully '80s retro graphics and sounds last for only three major rounds, which last only few minutes. Many of the early apps have been written by puzzle fans for puzzle fans. One exception that encourages a more free-form experience is an app geared toward younger children called Oogor's Day, which creates a dynamic story as Cubes with different characters are manipulated. It's hard to say how in-depth Sifteo games can go, but one third-party developer soon plans to ship a promising music sequencer called LoopLoop. Even everyday customers can customize some existing games and exercises, though, with what Sifteo calls the Creativity Kit -- a simple, form-based approach to creating drills that should find favor with parents and teachers and may be applied in the future to other disciplines such as music. There's really nothing else out there quite like Sifteo Cubes. The company characterizes the product as a cross between a toy and video games, but it is a refreshing breeze in the world of either, one that should pick up velocity as more third-party games hit the system by this holiday season. If Sifteo can inspire developers to exploit its platform, its unique mode of interaction gaming should be enough for it to steal sufficient attention from smartphone gaming. Ross Rubin (@rossrubin) is executive director of industry analysis for consumer technology at market research and analysis firm The NPD Group. Views expressed in Switched On are his own. |
| Yamaha YAS-101 walks into a soundbar, orders a stiff glass of 7.1 Posted: 11 Sep 2011 03:41 PM PDT 
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| Sony Tablet S arrives at Best Buy, ready to be touched, pre-ordered Posted: 11 Sep 2011 02:25 PM PDT  [Thanks @DaHarder] |
| Is Motorola joining the Facebook phone bandwagon with its EX225? Posted: 11 Sep 2011 12:54 PM PDT  |
| Scout Observer replaces military SATCOM, is powered by the iPhone 4 Posted: 11 Sep 2011 11:26 AM PDT  |
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