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- The Engadget / eBoy t-shirt shop is officially open, pre-orders start today!
- Toyota's production model Prius Plug-in Hybrid gets official unveiling, available March 2012 for $32,000
- Samsung Series 3 350U laptop delivers colorful ultraportable computing to the Korean masses
- Boeing hitches Android to its 787 Dreamliner ride, powers in-flight options with Google juice
- Nokia now shipping 700 and 701 to retailers, all our Symbian Belle are belong to us
- Sony Alpha NEX-5N makes clicking sound when moved, renders captured audio useless (video)
- RePro3D is a 'touchable' 3D interface that lets you poke pixies (video)
- Sony DEV-5 Digital Recording Binoculars hands-on (video)
- Recon Instruments gets NASA Desert RATS eyes-on with Micro Optics Display, lets them see the future
- FCC Fridays: September 16, 2011
- Intel's 710 SSDs get announced, bit too rich for the Christmas list (video)
- Engadget Podcast 256 - 09.16.2011
- Sony PlayStation Vita battery life: as little as three hours on a charge
- Verizon preps update for LTE Galaxy Tab 10.1, promises 'enhanced data'
- Gogo to bring enhanced WiFi to Virgin America, expands video streaming on American Airlines
- Parrot Asteroid Android-powered car stereo hands-on
- Altec Lansing debuts new ultraportable iMT630 speakers for iPhone and iPod
- AMD Eyefinity eyes-on, prepare to fall for landscape goodness (video)
- Corsair Vengeance gaming keyboards, mice, and headsets hands-on (video)
- FCC to test white space database at its own pace
- Brain scanner app lets you show off your smarts on-the-go
- Mercedes-Benz F 125! looks like the future, runs on hydrogen
- Report: Foxconn's Brazil factory ready for business, will begin shipping iPads in December
- Google expands Voice Actions across Europe, with multi-language support (video)
- Sony unveils $300 RDP-X500iP speaker dock, gives your iPad some sonic assistance
- Valeo Park4U turns your phone into a valet parking service (video)
- BlackBerry Curve Touch 9380 'Orlando' poses for the masses, invites you to look... but not touch
- Visualized: PS Vita in eight unlikely colors, mockup game cards chill on the sidelines
- Wooden Sega Saturn laptop sits nicely on your antique dresser
- Samsung Epic 4G Touch now available to all on Sprint.com
- New 'subconscious mode' could improve smartphone battery life, supress your WiFi id
- Nokia: first Windows Phones still shipping by end of year
- CEDIA 2011 odds and ends wrap up: THX, TiVo and plenty of projectors
- Purdue University grad students give NASA lander tech a boost, do it for the experience
- Boost Mobile to tack $5 onto monthly Android Unlimited plans beginning October 6th
- Pioneer intros Hello Kitty cordless phone, calls the '90s to brag
- Ca-Fi is an aftermarket Android car stereo that won't fit in your dashboard
- PayPal to add mobile payment features, hopes to redefine how we shop (till we drop)
- Dublin City University adopts Chromebooks -- time to go streaking through the quad!
- Bose unveils SoundLink wireless mobile speaker, fancies up A2DP for a premium (hands-on)
| The Engadget / eBoy t-shirt shop is officially open, pre-orders start today! Posted: 16 Sep 2011 11:25 AM PDT  We hope you love 'em as much as we do, and we'll be giving 50 percent of the proceeds received to Child's Play Charity, which provides games, books and cash for sick kids in children's hospitals across North America and the world. |
| Posted: 16 Sep 2011 11:15 AM PDT   September 16, 2011 Toyota Announces Pricing for All-New 2012 Prius v and Prius Plug-in Hybrid Vehicles RICHMOND, Calif., September 16, 2011 - - Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc. announced manufacturer's suggested retail prices (MSRP) here today at the annual Green Drive Expo for two new hybrid vehicles, the Prius v and Prius Plug-in. Since 1997 to present day, the Prius has been the dominant leader in hybrid technology worldwide. In the U.S. alone, the Prius has sold more than one million units since 2000. The all new Prius v and Prius Plug-in are the two newest hybrid vehicles to help make up the Prius Family. A fourth new member, the city-friendly Prius c, will launch in 2012. Prius v The first new member of the Prius Family, the Prius v, will meet the needs of growing families with active lifestyles while providing the same attributes traditionally found in the Prius DNA including Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive. The Prius v will provide 58 percent more cargo space than the Prius Liftback, and at 34.3 cubic feet, it has more cargo room than 80 percent of the small SUVs on the road today. Despite the spaciousness of a family friendly midsize vehicle, the Prius v will deliver estimated EPA fuel economy ratings of 44 mpg city, 40 mpg highway and 42 mpg combined, the highest fuel efficiency of any crossover, SUV or wagon on the market. The Prius v will have three configurations to help provide an easy ordering process, the value-driven Prius v Two, the well-equipped Three, and the premium level Five. All Prius v models come equipped with a wealth of standard comfort and convenience features including a new 6.1-inch Display Audio system with integrated backup camera, Bluetooth® and USB port, 16-inch alloy wheels with wheel covers, single-dial climate control, EV/ECO/Power modes, driver door Smart Key System, instrument panel with driver feedback displays, Toyota's Star Safety System™ [which includes the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC) and Smart Stop Technology], 60/40 split sliding and reclining rear seat, comfortable driver seating with power lumbar support and much more. The Prius v Three adds standard Display Audio with Navigation and the Entune1™ multimedia system (includes SiriusXM™ Satellite Radio with 90-day trial subscription, HD Radio® with iTunes® Tagging and text-to-speech with programmed and customizable test responses). In addition to standard features on the Prius v Two and Three, the Prius v Five adds standard SofTex-trimmed seats, heated front seats, three-door Smart Key, 17-inch alloy wheels, LED headlamps, fog lamps and more. The base MSRP for the Prius v are $26,400 for the Prius v Two model, $27,165 for the Prius v Three, and $29,990 for the Prius v Five. The Prius v will arrive at Toyota dealerships in late October. Prius Plug-in The third member of the Prius Family, the first-ever Prius Plug-in Hybrid, combines the benefits of the third-generation Prius Liftback's Hybrid Syndergy Drive with extended electric vehicle (EV) range, in a package that is priced more competitively than any plug-in hybrid or pure EV on the market. It will feature a new Lithium-ion battery, which supplements the superior fuel economy of the Prius with an extended electric-only driving range of up to 15 miles at a maximum speed of 62 mile-per-hour. By Toyota estimates, it will deliver an estimated 87 MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent) and when operating in hybrid mode will achieve an estimated 49 MPG3, providing drivers with great fuel economy without range anxiety. The Prius Plug-in also offers convenient charging times of only 2.5-3 hours using a standard 120V outlet or 1.5 hours using 240V. The Prius Plug-in will share many of the same exterior and interior design elements as the 2012 Prius Liftback. Design features exclusive to the Plug-in include unique chrome grille and bumper trim, chrome door handles, unique 15-inch alloy wheels, blue-accented headlamps, a distinct tail lamp design, and a new Hybrid Synergy Drive Plug-in badge. Prius Plug-in Hybrid will be available in two models, the Prius Plug-in and the Prius Plug-in Advanced. The Prius Plug-in Hybrid model comes equipped with an abundance of standard features including heated front seats, Remote Air Conditioning System (which can run either off the grid while the vehicle is plugged in or off the battery like the third-generation Prius Liftback), a charger timer, EV/ECO/POWER modes, three-door Smart Key, Display Audio with Navigation and Entune1 and an integrated backup camera, LED Daytime Running Lights, 15-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels, enhanced Multi-information Display and much more. The Prius Plug-in Advanced model adds additional standard features including Premium HDD Navigation with Entune2 and JBL® GreenEdge™, Plug-in Hybrid Applications through a user's smartphone (Charge Management, Remote Air Conditioning System, Charging Station Map, Vehicle Finder and Eco Dashboard), Head-up Display, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Pre-Collision System, LED headlamps with auto on/off feature and integrated fog lamps, SofTex-trimmed seating, an eight-way power adjustable driver's seat, Safety Connect and more. The base MSRP for the Prius Plug-in Hybrid is $32,000. The Prius Plug-in Hybrid Advanced will have an MSRP of $39,525. Both Prius Plug-in models are expected to qualify for a federal tax credit of approximately $2,5004. The Prius Plug-in Hybrid will be on sale in 14 launch states beginning this October through Toyota's Online Order System at www.toyota.com. Vehicle deliveries begin in Spring 2012. The launch states include California, Oregon, Washington, Arizona, Maine, Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Maryland, and Virginia. A national rollout is planned for 2013. The MSRP for the 2012 Prius v and Prius Plug-in does not include the delivery, processing and handling (DPH) fee of $760. The DPH fee for vehicles distributed by Southeast Toyota (SET) and Gulf States Toyota (GST) may vary. Leviton Level 2 (240V) Home Charging Stations Leviton, an approved provider of Level 2 (240V) home charging stations, has developed a residential program exclusively tailored for Prius Plug-in customers. The program will include the following: A one-stop solution for home charging stations, installation services for 120V and 240V applications, and dedicated support for Toyota customers; Level 2 (240V) 16-amp and 30-amp home charging stations designed exclusively for the Prius Plug-in (UL-certified, compact design, easy-to-use, and made in the U.S.A.); Industry-leading pricing for Level 2 (240V) with basic packages starting as low as $999; Toyota-dedicated e-commerce web portal (leviton.com/Toyota) with product information, order tracking, and other features. Prius Plug-in customers will be able to take advantage of Leviton's special pricing beginning in early October. RICHMOND, Calif. (Sept. 16, 2011) – Toyota, the world leader in hybrid passenger cars and SUVs, introduced the Prius Plug-in Hybrid at the annual Green Drive Expo here today, as the newest member of the Prius Family. Joining the popular third-generation Prius Liftback and the new Prius v, the new Prius Plug-in combines the benefits of the standard Prius model's hybrid vehicle operation with extended electric vehicle (EV) driving and more affordable pricing than pure electric or range-extender type vehicles. The 2012 Prius Plug-in Hybrid, which offers seating for five, is expected to achieve a manufacturer-estimated 87 MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent) in combined driving and 49 MPG in hybrid mode. Toyota has sold more than one million Prius models in the United States since the first-generation model was introduced for model-year 2001. The recent introduction of the larger Prius v and now the Prius Plug-in Hybrid brings this eco-focused model range to four distinct vehicles, including the Prius c, which will debut in 2012. The 2012 Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid will allow true EV operation and performance for up to 15 miles at speeds up to 62 mph, along with quick home charging using a standard AC outlet and 15-amp dedicated circuit. Operating in EV mode, the Prius Plug-in Hybrid provides the quick, smooth quiet driving of a pure electric vehicle. The Prius Plug-in Hybrid offers the same five-passenger seating and luggage space as the standard Prius model. The 2012 Prius Plug-in Hybrid retains the Hybrid Synergy Drive of the standard Prius model and will seamlessly switch into hybrid operation at a pre-determined state of battery charge. A newly developed 4.4 kWh lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery pack replaces the standard Prius model's nickel metal hydride (NiMH) battery and fits under the rear cargo floor, and the vehicle adds an easy-to-use external charging cable. -more- 2012 Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid 2-2-2-2 A full charge using an external AC outlet takes approximately 2.5 to 3.0 hours using a 120v household outlet or 1.5 hours using a 240v outlet. The included 120v charging cable connects to the charging port inlet located on the right-rear fender. In addition to offering EntuneTM, Toyota's new multimedia system, available smartphone applications developed for the Prius Plug-in Hybrid include Charge Management, Remote Air Conditioning System, Charging Station Map, Vehicle Finder and Eco Dashboard. Introduction of the 2012 Prius Plug-in Hybrid follows an extensive test-fleet program involving 125 early prototypes in the United States. Toyota applied experience from that test phase, along with input from participants, to finalize engineering and improve features for the production model. Performance and Economy Even with the addition of the new onboard battery charging system and larger 176-lb. Li-ion battery pack, the 2012 Prius Plug-in Hybrid weighs just 123 lbs. more than the standard Prius Liftback, thanks to weight-savings techniques applied elsewhere. As a result, driving performance for the 2012 Prius Plug-in Hybrid will be similar to the standard Prius. Running in EV mode, the system switches to full hybrid mode under full acceleration, which splits engine power between the drive wheels and the generator, keeping the battery charged – just as in the standard Prius model. Even when not running in the driver-selectable EV mode, the Prius Plug-in Hybrid will rely more on its electric-only capability in situations where it is more efficient than running the gasoline engine, especially in urban and suburban driving and during shorter trips when drivers will enjoy the smoothness and quiet of EV operation. The overall fuel economy rating for the Prius Plug-in Hybrid increases to a manufacturer- expected 87 MPGe, with the car achieving an estimated 49 MPG when operating in hybrid mode. Drivers who use the vehicle for frequent short trips and local driving will realize the biggest reduction in gasoline usage. EV and Hybrid Operation The Prius Plug-in operates much the same way as the standard Prius model while offering extended EV range and plug-in charging. Current Prius owners will feel instantly familiar with the new model while enjoying more benefits of EV driving. -more- 2012 Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid 3-3-3-3 The Plug-in Hybrid system consists of a large-capacity Li-ion battery and an external battery-charging port connected to the standard Prius Hybrid Synergy Drive system. Toyota developed the new compact, lightweight, high-output battery specifically for the Prius Plug-in Hybrid. The 4.4 kWh battery pack includes a battery charger located under battery that features an internal cooling fan. The hybrid system's inverter and has been optimized for the new, higher-capacity battery. In addition, the hybrid cooling system uses a larger heat exchanger and higher-capacity fan motor. As in the standard Prius Hybrid model, the Prius Plug-in Hybrid shuts down the gasoline engine at a stop and accelerates away with the hybrid battery providing electricity to the front motor; the Prius Plug-in Hybrid can rely on battery power alone for longer distances and higher speeds than the standard Prius. It features a new battery state-of-charge gauge, and a standard multi-information display panel monitors fuel and energy consumption to help encourage economical driving habits. New multi-information display additions have been included in the Prius Plug-in. A new EV Drive Ratio display records the ratio of driving distance covered by EV power, and the Hybrid System Indicator shows possible EV driving range when in EV mode. An Eco Savings Record screen, new to both the 2012 updated Prius and the Prius Plug-in, allows drivers to measure their savings over a customizable pre-set comparison vehicle. The pre-set areas include fuel cost for a gallon of gas and miles-per-gallon average. Charging the Prius Plug-in Hybrid The external charging system is designed to be easy and safe to use. Approximately 24 feet in length, the battery charger cable weighs just 3.75 lbs. and conveniently fits its own compartment in the trunk area. The port is located behind a spring-loaded push-open door on the right-rear fender. A full charge using an external AC outlet takes approximately 2.5-3.0 hours using a 120V household outlet with a dedicated 15-amp circuit, or 1.5 hours using a 240V outlet. The charge port provides LED (Light Emitting Diode) illumination for convenient nighttime charging. A timer allows charging to take place during off-peak hours and can be set for both start and end times. -more-  2012 Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid 4-4-4-4 In the event of a malfunction, the CCID (Charging Circuit Interrupter Device) in the cable will stop the flow of electricity for safety, and the indicator lamp will flash. There is also a self-test button, similar to that used on household kitchen and bathroom electrical outlets. A special rubber stopper prevents the charging port door from snapping shut when closing. Leviton Level 2 (240V) Home Charging Stations Leviton, an approved provider of Level 2 (240V) home charging stations, has developed a residential program exclusively tailored for Prius Plug-in customers. The program will include a one-stop solution for home charging stations, installation services for 120V and 240V applications, and dedicated support for Toyota customers. The program will also offer Level 2 (240V) 16-amp and 30-amp home charging stations designed exclusively for the Prius Plug-in (UL-certified, compact design, easy-to-use, and made in the U.S.A.), industry-leading pricing for Level 2 (240V) with basic packages and a Toyota-dedicated e-commerce web portal (leviton.com/Toyota) with product information, order tracking, and other features. Prius Plug-in customers will be able take advantage of Leviton's special pricing starting early October. Packaging and Weight Optimization A key goal for development of the Prius Plug-in was to deliver the optimal balance of performance, range, economy, packaging and affordable price. The new model delivers extended EV range without sacrificing roominess for passengers or for luggage. The compact high-output Li-ion battery pack is installed under the rear luggage area. Width, height and length of the luggage space remain the same as the Liftback. There is no reduction in rear seat passenger room from the standard Prius model, with seating for three and 36.0 inches of legroom that is on par with midsize sedans. Significantly, the biggest change in packaging from the Prius Plug-in Hybrid test- fleet model is the smaller, more efficient battery pack in the production model. The new battery pack is approximately one-half the weight of the demonstration-phase vehicle, yet provides about 15-percent more range. The 2012 Toyota Prius Plug-in has a weight of 3,165 lbs. versus 3,042 lbs. for the Prius Liftback and 3,373 lbs. for the Plug-in test-fleet model. Suspension tuning has -more-  2012 Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid 5-5-5-5 been altered in accordance with the change in weight distribution from the standard Prius model. The Prius Plug-in reduced vehicle weight in other areas as well. In place of a spare tire, the Prius Plug-in carries a tire-sealing kit and inflator. The trunk floor panel features a reinforced honeycomb design and is about half the weight of the standard model's floor panel, while the charging cable stores in a compartment at the rear edge of the trunk floor. As on the standard Prius model, weight was saved through use of aluminum in the hood, rear hatch, front stabilizer bar and brake calipers and by using super high- tensile strength steel in the inner rocker panel, center pillar and roof reinforcement. All Prius models are built using processes that reduce emissions in every stage of the vehicle lifecycle, from production and driving, through eventual disposal and dismantling years down the road. Toyota uses plant-derived, carbon-neutral plastics in Prius models. Known as "ecological plastic," the material is used in the seat cushion foam, cowl side trim, inner and outer scuff plates, and deck trim cover. Ecological plastic emits less CO2 during the production process than conventional plastic, and it also helps reduce petroleum use. Exclusive Trim Levels Externally, the Prius Plug-in inherits the standard model's exceptionally low coefficient of drag at 0.25 Cd. The current Prius had received more wind tunnel hours of testing than any other Toyota in history, resulting in one of the cleanest aerodynamic profiles of any mass-produced vehicle in the world. The 2012 Prius Plug-in is distinguished from the standard Prius model by exclusive exterior trim, including chrome-like finish for the door handles, front grille, rear license plate garnish and the battery charging door. Unique badges, blue-accent headlamps and LED taillight clusters also identify the new model. It is available in five exterior colors, including the new Clearwater Blue. The new Prius Plug-in will be offered in two trim levels, standard and Advanced. The standard trim level provides all of the features of the Prius Two Liftback grade, plus some features from the upscale Prius Three and Prius Four grades. The Prius Plug-in Hybrid also makes standard a new touch-screen Display Audio and navigation system with rear backup camera and Toyota's new EntuneTM multimedia services. -more- 2012 Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid 6-6-6-6 The Prius Plug-in comes standard with unique wheels, LED Daytime Running Lights, new driver-feedback screens, heated front seats, Smart Key System on three doors with push-button start and remote illuminated entry, and the Touch Tracer Display. The latter features touch sensors on the steering wheel switches that are designed to reduce driver eye movement for better concentration on the road. When the driver touches the audio or info switch located on the steering wheel, a duplicate image is displayed on the instrument panel, directly in front of the driver. The Advanced trim level adds Head-Up Display, LED headlamps, SofTex interior seat trim, eight-way adjustable power driver seat, a JBL® premium audio and HDD navigation system and exclusive Entune Plug-in Hybrid Applications for smartphones. Additional safety features in the Advanced level include the Pre-Collision System with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control and Safety Connect system. The latter can access a call center with a live operator who can dispatch police and emergency vehicles. The system combines automatic collision notification and a stolen vehicle locator feature, which can track the location of the stolen vehicle via GPS and help guide police to recover it. Hybrid Synergy Drive The Hybrid Synergy Drive system in the Prius Plug-in Hybrid is essentially the same as in the current third-generation Prius and new Prius v models. The system uses two high-output electric motors, one 60kw (80 hp) unit that mainly works to power the compact, lightweight transaxle, and another smaller motor that works as the electric power source for battery regeneration and as a starter for the gas engine. Maximum motor-drive voltage is 650 volts DC. Hybrid Synergy Drive is a series-parallel hybrid system that can provide power either from the engine alone, or the electric motor/generator alone, or any mix of both. A hybrid control computer manages the system so that optimum power is delivered according to driver demand. A start/stop system and regenerative braking also help to conserve fuel, the latter recharging the battery upon deceleration. Hybrid Synergy Drive is built around a specially adapted, efficient 98-horsepower 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that runs on the Atkinson cycle and contributes to a maximum 134 total system horsepower. Key components include an electric water pump that requires no belts, and an Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system that helps warm the engine quickly, reducing fuel consumption when the engine is cold. -more- 2012 Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid 7-7-7-7 The compact and lightweight gasoline engine produces low noise and vibration. Sophisticated valve control, injector design, and other technologies help reduce emissions to allow the Prius Plug-in to qualify for an enhanced ATPZEV emissions rating. A new low-pressure fuel-vapor containment tank system releases pressure in the tank for the engine to consume the generated vapor. Remote Climate Control Operation for Comfort and Conservation The Prius Plug-in features a standard automatic climate control system. The remote air conditioning feature can be activated by the key fob while the vehicle is being charged to cool the interior. This feature can help enhance fuel consumption by using the external AC power source to provide comfortable cabin temperature before entering the car. As in the standard Prius, an ECO switch operates to prioritize fuel economy when the air conditioning is running. On the Advanced model a Smartphone can be used to start cooling the cabin For quick interior heating in cold climates, the Prius Plug-in Hybrid features standard two-position front seat heaters and a supplementary electric heater. Safety Like all Toyota models, the Prius Plug-in Hybrid will feature as standard Toyota's Star Safety SystemTM, which includes Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, and the Smart Stop Technology brake-override system. An available Pre-Collision System (PCS), paired with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, retracts seatbelts and applies the brakes in certain conditions when a frontal crash is determined to be unavoidable. The Prius Plug-in will also come standard with seven airbags. Also available is Safety Connect, which includes automatic collision notification, stolen vehicle locator, emergency assistance button (SOS) and roadside assistance (three-year complimentary subscription included). Entune Multimedia System The 2012 Prius Plug-in is among a number of Toyota models that offer the new Entune multimedia system. This innovative new system leverages mobile smartphones to provide a richer in-vehicle experience with fully integrated access to navigation, entertainment and information services. -more- 2012 Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid 8-8-8-8 Toyota Entune debuts the first-ever support for engaging mobile apps, such as BingTM, OpenTable®, and MovieTickets.com, along with accessing useful travel-related services, such as live weather, traffic, fuel information (location and price), stocks, and sports. Toyota Entune brings the largest selection of music options available to a vehicle, including iHeartRadio's 750+ stations, and the Pandora® personalized music service. Access to Entune services (and Plug-in Hybrid Applications in the Advanced trim level) is complimentary for three years. The audio systems combined with Entune feature a best-in-class, advanced conversational voice recognition system that helps the driver to stay focused on the road by eliminating the need to memorize thousands of voice commands. The system will also allow for audio read-back and replay capabilities for text messages, with the ability to respond by pre-set quick-reply messages such as: "I'm driving and will reply later." Peace of Mind Warranty Protection Toyota's 36-month/36,000 mile basic new-vehicle warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60,000 miles and against corrosion with no mileage limitation. The hybrid-related components, including the HV battery, battery control module, hybrid control module and inverter with converter, and the battery-charging system and cable/connector, are covered for eight years/100,000 miles (10 years/150,000 miles for CARB states). The Prius Plug-in Hybrid will also come standard with Toyota Care, a complimentary plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance and 24-hour roadside assistance for three years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first. |
| Samsung Series 3 350U laptop delivers colorful ultraportable computing to the Korean masses Posted: 16 Sep 2011 10:41 AM PDT  |
| Boeing hitches Android to its 787 Dreamliner ride, powers in-flight options with Google juice Posted: 16 Sep 2011 10:25 AM PDT  |
| Nokia now shipping 700 and 701 to retailers, all our Symbian Belle are belong to us Posted: 16 Sep 2011 10:11 AM PDT  The above tweet says it all, folks -- the Nokia 700 and 701, two of the three Symbian Belle devices promised for a Q3 release last month, are shipping out to various retailers in just enough time to hit the deadline. As with many 140-character messages, it leaves us in wont for more information; we suppose, though, that most of the finer details were already given to us at the devices' unveiling, and now it's just up to the individual retailers to provide any missing pieces (if any) that remain. All that's left to do is decide on a suitable outlet, right? |
| Sony Alpha NEX-5N makes clicking sound when moved, renders captured audio useless (video) Posted: 16 Sep 2011 09:50 AM PDT  We've been able to isolate the sound to the camera body itself, so it's completely independent of the lens and other accessories. We also happen to be testing a variety of new Sony products this week in San Diego, and had Sony reps on hand to acknowledge and confirm the issue, which seems to plague every NEX-5N that we've tried. This is still very fresh, so Sony doesn't have a fix or even a statement to issue, but because 1080/60p video is one of this camera's headline features, we're going to recommend holding off on your purchase until the company can confirm what's causing the issue. Jump past the break to hear it for yourself in our demo video. [Thanks to everyone who sent this in] |
| RePro3D is a 'touchable' 3D interface that lets you poke pixies (video) Posted: 16 Sep 2011 09:31 AM PDT  |
| Sony DEV-5 Digital Recording Binoculars hands-on (video) Posted: 16 Sep 2011 09:00 AM PDT  The single sample that Sony had on hand certainly isn't ready to take home. They're rather large, with a durable plastic construction, and are a bit too heavy to wear comfortably around your neck. Several other curiosities make it clear that these still have a long way to go before they hit the production line -- the power slider is reversed, for example, so we needed to flip it to off to power the binoculars on. We weren't permitted to snap photos or video since image quality is not yet final, but both the DEV-3 and -5 are theoretically capable of capturing 7.1 megapixel stills and 1080p 3D video. Since you'll be peeping at your subject through a pair of EVFs, the binocs offer a unique "glasses-free" method of 3D viewing, since they deliver a different image directly to each eye -- even slightly different than what the company offers with its HMZ-T1. Looking through the DEV-5 more closely resembles the experience you'll have looking your camera's EVF than what you'll see with a traditional pair of binoculars. This digital version offers autofocus, and while sharp, subjects don't appear nearly as crisp or realistic as they do with the optical equivalent. So are these digital binoculars a complete failure? No, we wouldn't say that, but it's without question that their target market is likely to be very small -- negligible, even, when compared to that of nearly every other Sony product. |
| Recon Instruments gets NASA Desert RATS eyes-on with Micro Optics Display, lets them see the future Posted: 16 Sep 2011 08:38 AM PDT  16th September 2011 Recon Instruments' Micro Optics Display technologies successfully evaluated by NASA for Next Generation Spacesuit applications Recon Instruments' customized solution for NASA's annual field testing provided an eye-widening experience for the testers involved. Recon Instruments is the multiple award-winning Vancouver-based technology company behind the world's first GPS enabled Micro Optics Displays for alpine goggles. This technology served as the starting point for two customized versions that were evaluated at NASA Desert Research and Technology Studies (Desert RATS) in the Arizona desert. The technology was tested by several subjects, including astronaut and engineering specialists who evaluated the goggles paying particular attention to how well the Micro Optics Display conveyed information. Currently, spacewalking astronauts rely on a paper checklist worn on the arm, or from voice command from within the vehicle or ground control. Recon's technology was loaded with procedures that guided the subjects through a complex task that was representative of an experiment that might be deployed on the Moon or Mars. The technology was warmly received by the testers in this early evaluation, with the demonstration showing the technology being successful in delivering the correct information in a clear and succinct manner, direct-to-eye. "Recon Instruments' display technology goggles allowed NASA to evaluate a potential option for displaying information to an astronaut wearing a spacesuit. The goggles were evaluated using simulated procedures and hardware mock-ups typical of expected EVA tasks. We learned that this display worked quite well in conveying information needed by the astronauts to perform complex tasks. We will continue to investigate this and other kinds of display technology in the future." said Michael Lewis, who is the engineer in charge of developing Helmet Mounted Displays for NASA's future spacesuit. Dan Eisenhardt, CEO of Recon Instruments added "We are delighted that our technology was received well by the specialists at Desert RATS and successfully provided information direct-to-eye. We look forward to exploring this technology further with NASA as it proceeds with development of the next generation spacesuit. Skiers and snowboarders can get their hands on this Micro Optics Display technology this fall and will be able to put it to the test themselves on the snow." More information about Desert RATS field tests can be found at http://www.nasa.gov/exploration/analogs/desert_rats.html |
| FCC Fridays: September 16, 2011 Posted: 16 Sep 2011 08:16 AM PDT  We here at Engadget tend to spend Phones Read - HTC PH98100 Read - HTC PI06100 Read - Huawei C2931 Read - Huawei G1000 Plus Read - Huawei G2800S Read - LG E906 Read - Motorola MB865 Read - Motorola EX139 Read - Samsung GT-C3520 Read - Samsung SCH-R680 Read - Sony Ericsson Live with Walkman Read - Sony Ericsson Xperia active Read - ZTE N285 Read - ZTE UX720 Peripherals and tablets Read - Novatel MC679 (AT&T LTE) Read - Huawei BM1012 Read - Samsung SGH-T859 |
| Intel's 710 SSDs get announced, bit too rich for the Christmas list (video) Posted: 16 Sep 2011 07:55 AM PDT  Owning a high-capacity SSD is a bit like having a butler -- it's a lovely option, but so damn expensive. Intel's announcing Lyndonville -- more modestly called the SSD 710, which replaces the less modestly named X25-E Extreme. The enterprise-level SSD's carrying 25-nanometer MLC flash memory and when tested, five of the drives were able to handle the same load as 90 x 15,000 RPM HDDs in Intel's data center. The drives will be available in the fall, and considering it's already September, we can only assume the company is waiting for a few more leaves to turn brown before going to OEMs. Volume pricing for units of 1,000 places the 100GB model at $649, 200GB at $1,289 and the 300GB at a tear-inducing $1,929. You can see Intel's Agustin Gonzalez talk up the 710 in the video after the break. Intel Announces New SATA Solid-State Drive for the Data Center Intel® Solid-State Drive 710 Series with High Endurance Technology Offers Extreme Endurance and Performance for Greater Reliability, Efficiency and Value Intel debuts enterprise-grade Multi-Level Cell (MLC) SATA SSD Intel SSD 710 Series featuring high endurance, performance and reliability. Intel SSD 710 Series uses compute-quality 25nm MLC NAND flash memory in 100GB, 200GB and 300GB capacities. Intel SSD 710 with High Endurance Technology offers Single-Level Cell (SLC) SSD endurance with MLC value for optimal data center storage. SANTA CLARA, Calif., Sept. 14, 2011 – Intel Corporation announced today its latest solid-state drive (SSD), the Intel® Solid-State Drive 710 Series, a purpose-built Multi-Level Cell (MLC) data center SSD and replacement for the Intel® X25-E Extreme SSD. While the Intel X25-E was based on more expensive but highly reliable Single-Level Cell (SLC) NAND flash memory, the Intel SSD 710 uses compute-quality Intel 25-nanomenter (nm) MLC NAND flash memory with Intel High Endurance Technology (HET) to deliver the endurance and performance necessary for data center, financial services, embedded, Internet portal, search engine and other demanding storage and server applications, but at a greater value. "The Intel SSD 710 Series gives enterprise data center and embedded users extreme endurance and performance, enabled by Intel's High Endurance Technology based on Intel 25nm MLC NAND technology," said Rob Crooke, Intel vice president and general manager of the Intel Non-Volatile Memory Solutions Group. "Intel SSDs are widely deployed in the data center due to their performance, reliability and value. Our latest SSD product family offers more than 30 times the write endurance of our current MLC SSDs, plus improved performance and new features, such as power-loss data protection and surplus arrays of NAND for enhanced reliability." The Intel SSD 710 delivers nearly the same endurance as SLC-based NAND SSDs, yet utilizes the higher capacity and more cost-effective MLC NAND. It achieves write endurance out-of-the-box of up to 1.1 Petabytes (PB) and comes in 100-Gigabyte (GB), 200GB and 300GB capacities. Targeted for I/O-starved applications, the Intel SSD 710 achieves a 4K random write performance of up to 2,700 input/output operations per second (IOPS) and 4K random read performance of up to 38,500 IOPS across the full span of the drive, making this a suitable replacement to an SLC SSD or multiple enterprise-grade hard disk drives (HDD). In addition to performance, the Intel SSD 710 can replace many power-consuming HDDs with a single SSD to help reduce data center energy costs. "Cisco and Intel teams have worked closely, looking at the requirements for servers in the data center – IT organizations today more often run out of memory, and need memory density as well as capacity and performance," said David Lawler, vice president of product management for Cisco. "The Cisco UCS B230 M2 server offers the highest density memory capacity, and is one of the highest-density two-socket, half-width form factors powered by the Intel® Xeon® E7-2800. Cisco will offer the Intel SSD 710 Series to further increase the performance and storage capacity in the UCS B230 with two local drives offering 100GB each in September and up to 300GB each in the fall." The Intel SSD 710 also includes increased reliability and security features. These include enhanced power-loss data protection to reduce potential data loss during a power failure; added data security with surplus NAND flash memory to provide system protection should a NAND die fail; Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) with 128-bit pre-configured encryption technology to protect the data from an external threat or internal system issues and Temperature Monitoring and Logging containing an internal temperature sensor that can be monitored using two self-monitoring analysis and report technology (SMART) attributes to prevent downtime. Positioned for high write usage models, the drive can also be over-provisioned by the user to achieve up to 80 percent greater write endurance, creating an outstanding storage value. Intel HET combines NAND silicon enhancements and unique SSD NAND management techniques to extend the write endurance of MLC-based SSDs. Intel HET comprises Intel-developed firmware, controller and high-cycling NAND for optimized endurance and performance for the heavy loads of data crunching and writing experienced in 24/7 data centers or scientific, financial or other high-intensity usage models. Firmware enhancements from Intel include optimized error avoidance techniques, write amplification reduction algorithms and system-level error management beyond the normal industry Error Correction Code (ECC) standards. Providing a better dollar-per-GB value than its previous-generation Intel X25-E SSD, the Intel SSD 710 Series is priced at $649 for the 100GB version, $1,289 for the 200GB, and $1,929 for 300GB, all based on 1,000-unit quantities. It is backed by a 3-year limited warranty. To download the multimedia press kit go to www.intel.com/newsroom/ssd. For more information on Intel SSDs go to www.intel.com/go/ssd or follow Intel SSDs on Twitter (@intelssd), Facebook (www.intel.com/go/ssdfacebook or communities.intel.com). |
| Engadget Podcast 256 - 09.16.2011 Posted: 16 Sep 2011 07:33 AM PDT  Host: Brian Heater Guest: Darren Murph, Richard Lawler Producer: Trent Wolbe Music: Stairway to Heaven 03:45 - Poll: Did you download Windows 8? 30:43 - Microsoft shows Windows 8 on existing Ultrabooks, acts like it's never seen a thin laptop before 46:39 - Listener questions Hear the podcast Subscribe to the podcast [iTunes] Subscribe to the Podcast directly in iTunes (enhanced AAC). [RSS MP3] Add the Engadget Podcast feed (in MP3) to your RSS aggregator and have the show delivered automatically. [RSS AAC] Add the Engadget Podcast feed (in enhanced AAC) to your RSS aggregator. [Zune] Subscribe to the Podcast directly in the Zune Marketplace Download the podcast LISTEN (MP3) LISTEN (AAC) Contact the podcast Send your questions to @tim_stevens. Leave us a voicemail: (423) 438-3005 (GADGET-3005) E-mail us: podcast at engadget dot com Twitter: @bheater, @rjcc, @darrenmurph This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| Sony PlayStation Vita battery life: as little as three hours on a charge Posted: 16 Sep 2011 07:02 AM PDT  |
| Verizon preps update for LTE Galaxy Tab 10.1, promises 'enhanced data' Posted: 16 Sep 2011 06:43 AM PDT  |
| Gogo to bring enhanced WiFi to Virgin America, expands video streaming on American Airlines Posted: 16 Sep 2011 06:20 AM PDT  Virgin America's in-flight perks are getting even perkier. This week, the domestic carrier announced that it's bringing Gogo's ATG-4 service aboard its fleet of aircraft, in a move that promises to enhance in-flight WiFi capacity by a factor of four. The upgrade is slated to roll out during the first half of 2012, when the company will begin outfitting its planes with Gogo's directional antenna, dual-modem and EV-DO Rev. B technologies. But VA isn't the only airline getting in on the Gogo game, as the in-flight entertainment company announced this week that it's expanding its new video streaming service to American Airlines, as well. American, as you may recall, became the first airline to test the Gogo Vision service back in August, aboard its fleet of 15 Boeing 767-200 planes. Now, the streaming product is slated to expand to a full 400 of AA's aircraft, bringing about 200 movies and TV shows to entertainment-starved passengers. Movies will be available for 24 hour rentals, with TV purchases good for a full 72 hours. Unexpired rentals, meanwhile, will still be available once you land and can be accessed with the same browser and device you used aboard the flight. No word on final pricing, though Gogo is extending its introductory offer ($1 per TV show and $4 per movie) through October 15th. Taxi past the break for more details, in a pair of press releases. Virgin America Becomes First Airline to Launch Gogo's ATG-4 Technology New Even Higher Speed WiFi Connection to Launch on First Virgin America Aircraft in Early 2012 Itasca, IL. and San Francisco, CA – Sept. 14, 2011 – Gogo, the world's leading provider of in-flight connectivity and an innovator in in-flight entertainment, and Virgin America, the airline that is reinventing domestic travel, today announced at the 2011 Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX) Expo in Seattle that Virgin America will be the first airline to offer Gogo's next generation ATG-4 service. Gogo's ATG-4 service will significantly enhance the ATG network and improve aircraft WiFi capacity to the plane by approximately four times the current performance through the addition of directional antenna, dual-modem and EV-DO Rev. B technologies. Virgin America was the first carrier to offer fleetwide WiFi as of May 2009 via Aircell's Gogo service. Known for its innovative amenities including power outlets at every seat, the airline regularly sees up to one-third of guests on its flights logged on to the popular Gogo service. "As the only airline based in Silicon Valley our tech-forward guests have come to expect a fully connected in-flight experience on Virgin America," said President and CEO of Virgin America David Cush. "With Gogo's new ATG-4 technology, we're excited to see our long-time partner come to the table with a new offering that will further improve the speed and performance of in-flight WiFi for our guests." Gogo's ATG-4 service on Virgin America is scheduled for delivery on aircraft beginning in the first half of 2012. The new platform is backwards compatible and allows for upgrades to existing ATG systems through low cost retrofits. "Gogo is committed to meeting the ever evolving connectivity needs of our airline partners," said Michael Small, Gogo's President and CEO. "ATG-4's increased capacity is a perfect solution to meet Virgin America's connectivity needs. We will continue to develop and offer a suite of technology solutions for our airline partners, recognizing that this isn't a one-size fits all market. Our experience has taught us the important lesson that multiple technologies will need to be deployed over time, and our solutions are built to accommodate changes in technology to meet the needs of every aircraft and mission – whether that's through ATG, ATG-4 or satellite technologies." With topnotch service, beautiful design and a host of high-tech amenities, Virgin America has swept the industry best-in-class awards for the quality of its service since its 2007 launch, including "Best Domestic Airline" in Travel + Leisure's World's Best Awards in 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011 and "Best Domestic Airline" in Condé Nast Traveler's 2008, 2009 and 2010 Readers' Choice Awards. In this year's APEX awards, Virgin America captured top honors for "Best Ground Experience," "Best In-flight Entertainment in the Americas," "Best In-Flight Video" and "Best Overall Passenger Experience." At APEX earlier this week, Virgin America also announced the new technology partner for the next iteration of the airline's Red™ in-flight entertainment system – slated for launch in late 2012. Gogo Vision to Go Live on Approximately 400 American Airlines Aircraft in 2012 ITASCA, Ill., Sept. 14, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Gogo, the world's leading provider of in-flight connectivity and an innovator in in-flight entertainment, today announced that American Airlines, will expand Gogo's new streaming video product – Gogo Vision™ – onboard approximately 400 American Airlines aircraft. The expansion of Gogo's new streaming video product on all of American's Gogo-equipped aircraft will be completed by the end of 2012. American, which became the first to launch Gogo's video product in August, currently has the service up and running on their fleet of 15 Boeing 767-200 aircraft. In addition to the video expansion, Gogo has extended an introductory pricing offer of $.99 per TV show and $3.99 per movie through Oct. 15, 2011. With the purchase of a video, travelers will also receive a free Gogo Wi-Fi session for use on a later flight. Customers do not have to purchase in-flight Wi-Fi to purchase a movie or TV show. "We definitely feel that our video product is a game-changer for the industry and American continues to be at the cutting edge with this technology," said Ash ElDifrawi, Gogo's chief marketing officer. "Gogo Vision offers airlines a low-cost, light-weight, easy-to-install solution that's very different from traditional IFE." Gogo Vision features a growing list of nearly 200 movies and TV shows from major Hollywood studios to offer customers a range of entertainment choices. Customers can sort titles by movie or TV, genre, length of feature, and other categories. Trailers are available for complimentary viewing prior to renting content. Movies and TV shows will remain accessible for viewing after the customer has landed – movies for 24 hours and TV shows for 72 hours. Unexpired rentals will be available for playback on the ground by using the same device and browser used onboard. "Initial customer feedback shows our Entertainment On Demand product is a hit with our customers and we feel that it's a great example of how we continue to deliver products that our customers truly value," said Rob Friedman, American's Vice President – Marketing. "In addition to our expansion news today, we are thanking our customers for their loyalty by extending the free internet and introductory pricing offers until October 15." |
| Parrot Asteroid Android-powered car stereo hands-on Posted: 16 Sep 2011 06:02 AM PDT  Through these you can pull tunes from just about anything to play on there, but if you tether the device with a phone to provide connectivity (or plug in a USB modem, or connect over WiFi) you can stream music directly on it. It also offers Google Navigation, including traffic and all the niceties you've come to expect from your smartphone -- but on an admittedly tiny (3.2-inch) screen. Connect a music device over USB and it'll index the contents via GraceNote, letting you speak any artist, album, or song to play it directly. The Asteroid ships to the US in October for $349. If you have room for a little more Android in your life, maybe it's time to make a little more room in your dash. |
| Altec Lansing debuts new ultraportable iMT630 speakers for iPhone and iPod Posted: 16 Sep 2011 05:40 AM PDT  The New inMotion iMT630 Provides High Quality Sound and High Impact Style for iPhone and iPod Users SAN DIEGO, Sept. 14, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, audio innovator Altec Lansing introduced the new inMotion® iMT630 Classic and Sport speaker systems for iPhone and iPod. The inMotion iMT630 Classic and Sport speakers are ultra-portable audio solutions for consumers who want to accessorize their active lifestyle while enjoying great sound quality. With a rechargeable battery, the iMT630 travels easily, whether it's from room to room or to the beach for a family vacation. From looking good to sounding good, the iMT630 never misses a beat, standing out and delivering amazing audio quality wherever life takes it. "Consumer electronics are an extension of our own unique taste, and the inMotion iMT630 syncs the listener's personality to his or her lifestyle. It is the perfect marriage of form and function, whether it remains stationary as part of a room's decor or moves with the party to keep the fun going," said Steve Schlangen, Altec Lansing Senior Product Manager. "By incorporating our engineering audio excellence into a thoughtful portable design, the iMT630 becomes more than a dock for your iPhone or iPod; it becomes a personal accessory to life." Despite its small footprint, the iMT630 pumps out clear and accurate sound even at maximum volume. Whether relaxing at home or playing outside, users can enjoy precision audio clarity and crisp bass delivered through dual 2-inch drivers for a full stereo experience. Proving that style does not have to be sacrificed for performance, the iMT630 features fluid aesthetics with rounded corners and is available in three distinct colors to please any personal preference: the inMotion iMT630 Classic comes in timeless black while the inMotion iMT630 Sport packs a colorful punch in red or teal. Seamlessly adapting to a user's active lifestyle, the compact and portable iMT630 easily moves from room to room with the user. The rechargeable Lithium Ion battery allows users to enjoy their music away from the outlet for nearly seven hours. The included wireless remote can control the music from across the room and has its own magnetic storage space, so it never gets misplaced. Consumers can also access their music through the onboard controls. Whether listening to music with the family or entertaining the neighbors on the patio, the iMT630 lets others indulge in their favorite music by connecting their device via the auxiliary input jack. App Enhancement: Users can enhance their experience with the iMT630 by utilizing Altec Lansing's iOS apps, including the Music Mood App and the Alarm Rock App. With Music Mood's Graphic Equalizer (EQ), users can customize their sound for a more enjoyable listening experience. From basic and preset options to a more advanced seven-band graphic EQ, customized sound can be saved and accessed at the user's discretion. Also included within the Music Mood App is the Ambient Sound library which allows users to relax to a number of serene sounds, including a crackling fireplace, a calming river stream, a relaxing beach or a mountain breeze. The Alarm Rock App acts as a full-featured digital alarm clock complete with time display and an oversized snooze button. Users can choose to wake or sleep to their favorite audio files and songs, while enjoying a fully customizable interface to match even the most eclectic tastes. Availability and Pricing Altec Lansing's iMT630 is available now at www.alteclansing.com, Best Buy and select consumer electronics retailers for $149.95 MSRP. The iMT630 is compatible with iPod touch (1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th generation), iPod classic, iPod nano (1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th generation), iPhone 4, iPhone 3GS, iPhone 3G and iPhone. The Music Mood and Alarm Rock Apps are available for free from the App Store on iPhone and iPod touch or at www.itunes.com/appstore/. About Altec Lansing For more than 70 years, Altec Lansing has been shaping the history of sound delivery by producing exceptional speakers with legendary acoustics and catering to the consumer who won't compromise sound quality. The company boasts a unique history of innovation that includes the introduction of the first "talkie" film speakers, the first set of desktop computer speakers, and the first iPod docking station. Altec Lansing continues to be the first choice for music enthusiasts and audiophiles alike. Altec Lansing is a global company with offices in San Diego, CA, Milford, PA, Southlake, TX, London, Amsterdam, Sydney, Shenzhen, and Hong Kong. |
| AMD Eyefinity eyes-on, prepare to fall for landscape goodness (video) Posted: 16 Sep 2011 05:22 AM PDT  Myriam Joire contributed to this report. |
| Corsair Vengeance gaming keyboards, mice, and headsets hands-on (video) Posted: 16 Sep 2011 05:01 AM PDT   If you're needing a headset to go along with your new peripheral duo, the outfit has your back there as well with its Vengeance 1500, 1300, and 1100. Both the 1500 and 1300 cans feature 50mm drivers, 3D positional audio, and a noise-canceling cardioid microphone. While the former connects via USB and provides both 7.1 and 5.1 Dolby Headphone positional audio, the latter analog set makes use of dual 3.5mm jacks. Last but not least, the 1100 implements both of the previously mentioned connections for flawless compatibility, 40mm drivers and a mic that won't pick up all of your top-secret background chatter. Also hitting retailers next month, the trio will cost you $99, $79 and $39 from top to bottom. Catch all that? If not, don't fret, just peek at the galleries or the video below for all the minutiae. Dante Cesa and Myriam Joire contributed to this report. Corsair Announces New Vengeance Gaming Keyboards and Laser Gaming Mice The new Corsair Vengeance gaming peripherals line focuses on high performance and meeting the unique needs of PC gamers FREMONT, California - September 16th, 2011 - Corsair®, a worldwide designer and supplier of high-performance components to the PC gaming hardware market, today announced their new line of Vengeance™ PC gaming peripherals, including two gaming keyboards and two laser gaming mice. "Corsair has built a reputation for developing innovative products that focus on the unique needs of our customers," said Andy Paul, Corsair's President and CEO. "Our new Vengeance keyboards and mice follow in that tradition. PC gamers will love their gorgeous design and attention to the smallest details, like the intelligently designed button layout on our mice or the specially shaped WASD keycaps on our keyboard." Corsair's new PC gaming peripherals line includes four new HID products: The Vengeance K60 and Vengeance K90 gaming keyboards and the Vengeance M60 and Vengeance M90 gaming mice. A key feature of all four of these new Vengeance Series products is the use of an aluminum structure to provide strength and durability, as well as a stunning industrial design. "As enthusiastic gamers ourselves, we've developed precisely the products we always wanted, with a level of quality we have not seen before," said Ruben Mookerjee, VP and General Manager of the Components Business Unit at Corsair. "We're confident that our Vengeance gaming keyboards and mice will give you a competitive edge. Whether you prefer the immersion and intensity of MMO and RTS, or the adrenaline-fueled combat of FPS, our goal is to help you win." Vengeance K60 and M60: Designed For First-Person Shooters The Vengeance K60 gaming keyboard and the Vengeance M60 laser gaming mouse are designed for PC Gamers who specialize in First-Person Shooters (FPS). The Vengeance K60 keyboard features the predictable linear response and light touch of Cherry® MX Red mechanical key switches for more agile movement and faster multi-taps. The contoured left-wrist rest plus shaped and textured WASD key caps increase comfort, even during extended gaming sessions. The K60 uses an advanced key matrix design that delivers complete anti-ghosting so no keystrokes are missed. Unlike other USB gaming keyboards that are limited to the USB-standard 6-key rollover, the K60 features a 20-key rollover and a blazing fast 1ms reporting rate (1000 reports per second). The Vengeance M60 mouse features an enthusiast-grade Avago 5670 DPI sensor with on-the-fly resolution switching, an aluminum unibody design with adjustable center of gravity, programmable lift detection, a high-mass scroll wheel, and PTFE glide pads. A key innovation of the M60 mouse is the Sniper button, allowing an instant toggle from fast movement, high DPI-resolution mode down to a high-precision mode for more accurate aiming. Vengeance K90 and Vengeance M90: Designed For MMO and RTS Gaming The Vengeance K90 gaming keyboard and M90 laser gaming mouse are optimized to meet the unique needs of MMO and RTS gaming. The Vengeance K90 keyboard also features Cherry MX Red key switches, full anti-ghosting, 20-key rollover, 1ms reporting rate, and each key is individually backlit with a cool blue LED that can be adjusted to three different levels of intensity. The K90 also includes18 dedicated macro keys that can be programmed either through software or on the fly, and with three user-selectable banks of macros you have a total of 54 independent macros available at any time. Your macros are stored in flash memory on the keyboard so you'll be able to bring them with you wherever your gaming takes you. The Vengeance M90 gaming mouse features 15 fully programmable buttons, arranged and tuned for intuitive operation without compromising your grip, and on-board flash memory lets you save your macros in up to six profiles that can be switched on-the-fly. An Avago 5670 DPI sensor allows on-the-fly resolution adjustment and the programmable lift detection, high-mass scroll wheel, and PTFE glide pads ensure swift, precise movement. The intuitive Windows-based Vengeance software utility lets you manage your macro keys, on-board profiles, and sensor settings so you can customize your M90 to exactly match your gaming style. Pricing and Availability The Vengeance K90 gaming keyboard has an MSRP in the United States of $129 and the K60 has an MSRP of $99. The Vengeance M90 gaming mouse has an MSRP $99 and the M60 has an MSRP of $79. The full range of Vengeance gaming peripherals are expected to be available in October 2011 from authorized Corsair retailers and etailers worldwide. To get the full story on our new Vengeance gaming keyboards and laser gaming mice please visit: http://www.corsair.com/vengeance-gaming.html Corsair Announces New Vengeance Gaming Headsets The new Corsair Vengeance™ gaming headsets deliver an audio experience that helps gamers play their best FREMONT, California - September 16th, 2011 - Corsair®, a worldwide designer and supplier of high-performance components to the PC gaming hardware market, today announced their new line of Vengeance PC gaming peripherals, including three new gaming headsets. "The award-winning Corsair Gaming Series audio products have built a reputation for providing accurate, detailed audio that makes everything from games to music and movies a joy to listen to, as well as creating the situational awareness gamers need for a competitive advantage," said Andy Paul, Corsair's President and CEO. "Our new Vengeance gaming headsets continue that tradition. Everything from the sleek design and the careful choice of materials, to the obsessive focus on audio tuning is dedicated to the goal of providing a compelling experience for PC gamers who are as passionate about sound as they are about winning." "We're gamers, too. Our Vengeance gaming headsets reflect our desire to build the products we want to use and can't find anywhere else," said Ruben Mookerjee, VP and General Manager of the Components Business Unit at Corsair. "No matter what style of game you play, from FPS to MMO or RTS, you need clear, reliable voice communication, a comfortable design you can wear for hours, and fantastic audio quality. We believe the new Vengeance gaming headsets deliver on every one of these." Vengeance 1500 and Vengeance 1300 Gaming Headsets: Pure audio reproduction for pure gaming excitement The Vengeance 1500 and Vengeance 1300 gaming headsets employ circumaural, closed-back earpad designs for immersive audio and long-term comfort. Both feature custom-engineered 50mm drivers and careful acoustic tuning for audiophile-grade sound and accurate 3D positional audio. The high-sensitivity, noise-cancelling cardioid microphone helps ensure effective team play. The Vengeance 1500 connects via USB and delivers 7.1 and 5.1 Dolby® Headphone™ positional audio for competitive gaming. The Vengeance 1300 is designed to pair with your high-end sound card using dual 3.5mm headphone and microphone connectors and accurately reproduces the 3D positional audio generated by X-Fi CMSS®-3D and other sound card-based positional audio systems. Vengeance 1100 Gaming Headset: Online gaming and chat with outstanding comfort and convenience The behind-the-head design of the lightweight Vengeance 1100 gaming headset provides excellent comfort for long online gaming and chat sessions. Both USB and 3.5mm analog connectors are provided in the same package for easy compatibility with any laptop or PC. The 40mm drivers – exceptionally large for a behind-the-heads headset – deliver amazing audio quality, and the high-sensitivity, noise-cancelling cardioid microphone provides clear voice communication. Pricing and Availability The Vengeance 1500 USB gaming headset has an MSRP in the United States of $99 USD and the Vengeance 1300 analog gaming headset has an MSRP of $79. The Vengeance 1100 gaming headset has an MSRP of $39. The full range of Venegeance gaming peripherals are expected to be available in October 2011 from authorized Corsair retailers and etailers worldwide. To get the full story on our new Vengeance gaming headsets please visit: http://www.corsair.com/vengeance-gaming.html |
| FCC to test white space database at its own pace Posted: 16 Sep 2011 04:36 AM PDT  Office of Engineering and Technology Announces the Opening of Public Testing for Spectrum Bridge's TV Band Database System ET Docket No. 04-186 The Commission's Office of Engineering and Technology (OET) announces that on September 19, 2011, it will commence a 45-day public trial of Spectrum Bridge Inc.'s TV band database system. This is a limited trial that is intended principally to allow the public to access and test Spectrum Bridge's database system to ensure that it correctly identifies channels that are available for unlicensed TV band devices, properly registers those facilities entitled to protection, and provides protection to authorized services and registered facilities as specified in the rules. We encourage all interested parties to test the database and provide appropriate feedback to Spectrum Bridge. The Commission's Part 15 rules (47 C.F.R. § 15.701 et seq.) require that unlicensed TV band devices contact an authorized database system to obtain a list of channels that are available for their operation (i.e., channels not occupied by authorized radio services) at their individual locations and must operate only on those channels. Such devices are required to provide their geographic location, by means of a secure Internet connection, to a TV band database system authorized by the Commission. The database will then return a list of the channels available for operation by the device for its reported location. As part of its authorization process for TV band database systems, the Commission stated that each database will be subject to a public trial period of not less than 45 days to ensure that the database is providing accurate results before it is allowed to be made available for regular public use. OET has examined Spectrum Bridge's channel availability calculator and finds that it is ready for trial testing by the public. Trial Access and Details Parties may participate in the trial by accessing Spectrum Bridge's TV band database test facility at: http://whitespaces.spectrumbridge.com/Trial.aspx. This website provides a description of the trial, instructions for participation, details on use of the database system, access to the database's various capabilities, and a link for providing feedback to Spectrum Bridge. Note that the test facility will not be active before the date the trial is scheduled to commence. During this trial, participants are encouraged to test • the channel availability calculator; • the cable headend and broadcast auxiliary temporary receive site registration utilities; and • the wireless microphone registration utility to ensure that each of these elements of the database system is working properly and providing the interference protection required under our rules. In addition, participants are encouraged to report any inaccuracies or other issues with any aspect of the database system to Spectrum Bridge through the response facility on the trial's website. Spectrum Bridge will respond, as appropriate, to such reports with an explanation and notification of any responsive actions it may take, as appropriate. During the trial, Spectrum Bridge may apply any corrective measures it determines are needed and will advise participants of such measures through the trial's website. As indicated above, the trial of the Spectrum Bridge database system is currently scheduled to last for 45 days and will end on November 2, 2011. However, if the results of the trial indicate that additional testing is necessary, OET may extend the trial period. After the close of the trial, Spectrum Bridge will provide a summary report to OET that identifies: (1) problems reported and their disposition; and (2) descriptions of changes made to the channel availability calculator or registration systems. Once Spectrum Bridge submits its report, we will provide a short period of time for interested parties to submit comments on the report. Note that the successful performance of the database system through this trial is only one element in the commission's evaluation of a system for approval to operate. Other requirements for TV band database systems are set forth in 47 C.F.R. 15.701 et seq. and OET's January 26, 2011 Order on TV band database administrators (see Order in ET Docket No. 04-186, DA 11-131). OET would grant final approval for Spectrum Bridge to operate its database system with certified TV band devices once it determines that the system complies with all of the applicable rules and requirements. The public will be informed of such decision through a Public Notice. The FCC rules require that TV band database systems protect the following radio services: (1) broadcast television stations (including full power, TV translator, low power TV, and Class A stations); (2) fixed broadcast auxiliary service links; (3) receive sites (and received channels) of TV translator, low power TV and Class A TV stations and multichannel video programming distributors (MVPDs); (4) private land mobile radio service and commercial mobile radio service operations; (5) offshore radio telephone service operations; (6) radio astronomy operations at specific sites; and (7) low power auxiliary service operations (principally licensed and certain approved unlicensed wireless microphone venue sites). Except for MVPD receive sites, sites where licensed wireless microphones are used, and approved unlicensed wireless microphone venues, the necessary protection data will either be extracted by Spectrum Bridge from the Commission's databases or are specified in the rules. Operators of facilities for which information is contained in the Commission's records or provided in the rules do not need to take any action to obtain protection from TV band devices. Operators of MVPD receive sites and wireless microphones users must specifically register their sites to receive protection from TV band devices. As required under the rules, Spectrum Bridge is providing a registration capability for these facilities. These registration capabilities are available through the database test facility at: http://whitespaces.spectrumbridge.com/Trial.aspx. The rules also provide that responsible parties may request that the Commission approve registrations for protection of venues where large numbers of unlicensed wireless microphones are used. Such requests for registration will first be made available for public comment, and the Commission will subsequently review them for approval. However, the Commission has not yet completed the development of its process for acceptance and approval of registrations for these venues. In the interim and for purposes of this trial, Spectrum Bridge, with OET's approval, has implemented a test registration capability for registration of venues where unlicensed wireless microphones are used; this test registration capability is also available through Spectrum Bridge's the database test facility. Registrations for MVPD receive sites, sites where licensed wireless microphones are used, and venues where large numbers of wireless microphones are used that are made during the trial period will be deleted by Spectrum Bridge after the trial. Parties will be able to register their MVPD receive sites and sites where licensed wireless microphones are used in the database once general operation of the database for use by TV band devices is approved and implemented. Parties responsible for venues where large numbers of wireless microphones are used will need to request registration approval by the Commission once the Commission's process for that function is activated. We encourage parties responsible for MVPD receive sites and licensed wireless microphone operations to enter trial registrations and make use of these capabilities in their testing of Spectrum Bridge's database. OET will provide notice of, and time for, affected parties to enter active registrations into Spectrum Bridge's database during the process for final approval of the Spectrum Bridge database system for full operation. We also note that once one or more additional database systems are approved and active, all registrations entered with a given database will be communicated to the other database(s) so that registrations will not need to be entered with multiple databases. The TV bands database systems are the subject of a docketed proceeding, ET Docket No. 04-186, and responses to the trial of Spectrum Bridge's database system conducted pursuant to this public notice may be filed with the Commission at any time using the FCC's Electronic Comment Filing System (ECFS) as described below. A simplified interface for ECFS has been implemented to facilitate consumer comment. Documents filed on ECFS may be accessed and reviewed on that system, which contains copies of written submissions and summaries of oral submissions regarding the white spaces proceeding. Pursuant to sections 1.415 and 1.419 of the Commission's rules, 47 CFR §§ 1.415, 1.419, interested parties may file comments and reply comments on the trial of Spectrum Bridge's database system at any time during and after the trial period. Comments may be filed using the Commission's Electronic Comment Filing System (ECFS). See Electronic Filing of Documents in Rulemaking Proceedings, 63 FR 24121 (1998). • Electronic Filers: Comments may be filed electronically using the Internet by accessing the ECFS: http://fjallfoss.fcc.gov/ecfs2/. • Paper Filers: Parties that choose to file by paper must file an original and one copy of each filing. If more than one docket or rulemaking number appears in the caption of this proceeding, filers must submit two additional copies for each additional docket or rulemaking number. Filings can be sent by hand or messenger delivery, by commercial overnight courier, or by first-class or overnight U.S. Postal Service mail. All filings must be addressed to the Commission's Secretary, Office of the Secretary, Federal Communications Commission. • All hand-delivered or messenger-delivered paper filings for the Commission's Secretary must be delivered to FCC Headquarters at 445 12th St., SW, Room TW-A325, Washington, DC 20554. The filing hours are 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. All hand deliveries must be held together with rubber bands or fasteners. Any envelopes and boxes must be disposed of before entering the building. • Commercial overnight mail (other than U.S. Postal Service Express Mail and Priority Mail) must be sent to 9300 East Hampton Drive, Capitol Heights, MD 20743. • U.S. Postal Service first-class, Express, and Priority mail must be addressed to 445 12th Street, SW, Washington DC 20554. People with Disabilities: To request materials in accessible formats for people with disabilities (braille, large print, electronic files, audio format), send an e-mail to fcc504@fcc.gov or call the Consumer & Governmental Affairs Bureau at 202-418-0530 (voice), 202-418-0432 (tty). All filings must be addressed to the Commission's Secretary, Marlene H. Dortch, Office of the Secretary, Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street, SW, Washington, DC 20554. Parties should also send a copy of their filings to Hugh L. Van Tuyl, Office of Engineering and Technology, Federal Communications Commission, Room 7-A162, 445 12th Street, SW, Washington, DC 20554, or by e-mail to Hugh.VanTuyl@fcc.gov. Parties must also serve one copy with the Commission's copy contractor, Best Copy and Printing, Inc. (BCPI), Portals II, 445 12th Street, SW, Room CY-B402, Washington, DC 20554, (202) 488-5300, or via e-mail to fcc@bcpiweb.com. Documents in ET Docket No. 04-186 are available for public inspection and copying during business hours at the FCC Reference Information Center, Portals II, 445 12th Street, SW, Room CY A257, Washington, DC 20554. The documents may also be purchased from BCPI, telephone (202) 488-5300, facsimile (202) 488-5563, TTY (202) 488-5562, e-mail fcc@bcpiweb.com. Questions regarding this Public Notice may be directed to Alan Stillwell at (202) 418-2470 or Hugh L. Van Tuyl at (202) 418-7506. By the Chief, Office of Engineering and Technology. -FCC- |
| Brain scanner app lets you show off your smarts on-the-go Posted: 16 Sep 2011 04:10 AM PDT  [Thanks, arek] |
| Mercedes-Benz F 125! looks like the future, runs on hydrogen Posted: 16 Sep 2011 03:40 AM PDT  Electricity is stored in a new 10kWh lithium-sulphur battery pack and the hydrogen gets pumped into carbon fiber tanks integrated into the bodyshell, combining to give a healthy 1,000km (621 mile) range. On the outside, the "trailblazing" exterior borrows a page from the classic Gullwing Mercedes cars of the past, but this is a much larger four-seater than the 'ol 300SL. It's also said to use 3D projectors for displaying of navigation and other driver information (not unlike Pioneer's Android-powered prototype) and the F 125! can even drive itself -- a requirement of any self-respecting car of the future.  Inside the swanky blue and cream interior lies an infotainment system that will sync with your media services in the cloud, letting you pick up on your favorite playlist right where you left off, everything controlled exclusively by your voice -- though a center console touchpad can be used if you prefer. The car will also push vehicle information to the cloud, so instead of wondering how much gas you've got left in the tanks you can just check on your phone. Performance is expected to be quite good, making the run to 62MPH in 4.9 seconds and sprinting up to a more than adequate top speed of 137. Mercedes-Benz assures this is all quite possible and that we may see this very car in production -- but not for another 15 years or so. Yeah, patience never was our strong suit either. Redefinition of automotive luxury: emission-free driving in First Class • Trailblazing concept for large, luxurious automobiles • F-CELL Plug-in HYBRID with a range of 1000 km • Revolutionary hydrogen storage technology • Lithium-sulphur high-voltage battery with high energy density • Pioneering battery charging by induction • e4MATIC-all-wheel drive with four wheel electric motors and individual torque control at each wheel • Bodyshell of lightweight hybrid construction with gull-wing doors for optimal access, more safety and reduced weight • Innovative saloon car architecture of avantgarde design • Driver-fitness safety and ease of operation at the highest level, thanks to natural touch, gesture and voice control • Always online, always connected with "@yourCOMAND" Cloud-based infotainment As a highlight marking 125 years of the automobile, Mercedes-Benz is presenting a visionary outlook on future technical developments in the luxury segment. The F 125! research vehicle anticipates future trends and prepares the way for implementation of an innovative premium concept for large, luxurious automobiles. In the F 125! Mercedes-Benz rigorously follows its vision of emission-free driving with hydrogen power, underlining the potential of H2 as an energy source for the future. While previous Mercedes-Benz research vehicles have "looked ahead" by roughly one vehicle generation - seven to eight years - the F 125! as the latest technological visionary goes a whole step further, by more than two generations to the year 2025 and beyond. "With the F 125! we want to show that large, comfortable and safe saloon cars have an excellent future, partly because they are able to operate with no emissions. The legend that is the S-Class will continue into the future thanks to intelligent solutions that always have the customer's needs in mind," says Prof. Dr. Thomas Weber, member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG, responsible for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development. "The new research vehicle illustrates and underlines this claim to leadership with innovative ideas and traditional Mercedes strengths in the areas of design, safety, comfort and performance." Innovative ideas reaffirm the claim to leadership in the luxury segment The F 125! demonstrates how completely emission-free, individual mobility might be realised in the luxury segment in the future. The researchers and developers at Mercedes-Benz have incorporated already well-proven concepts and technologies which are not yet available today, but for which basic research has shown great future promise, and therefore a realistic chance of implementation in future series-production cars. The decisive innovations are: • A logical further development of the fuel cell drive system in combination with plug-in technology • Revolutionary tank technology: the structure integrated hydrogen composite storage unit. • Lighter and more powerful batteries, in this case based on lithium-sulphur technology, which Mercedes-Benz is examining in parallel with further development of the current lithium-ion battery and research into lithium-air technology. On this basis the F 125! was created as an innovative four-seater luxury saloon with a powerful, emission-free electric drive system based on the fuel cell technology developed to series production maturity by Mercedes-Benz. This study combines pioneering and highly efficient storage, drive and bodyshell technologies with unique control and display concepts. The research vehicle also presents itself with an expressive design which transfers the classic Mercedes design idiom into the future. Highlights of the F 125!: • Completely emission-free mobility with a range of up to 1000 kilometres, full day-to-day suitability, superior performance and first-class comfort. • A bodyshell of innovative, lightweight hybrid construction with a high proportion of fibre-reinforced plastics and an intelligent mix of carbon-fibre, aluminium and high-strength steels, which allows a significant weight reduction while offering a further considerable improvement in safety. A high-strength construction with crash-responsive protective systems within the doors allows the omission of B-pillars, as well as the use of wide gull-wing doors which allow convenient access to the four seats. In this way the Mercedes-Benz safety philosophy and in particular the decisive principle of the rigid passenger cell developed by Béla Barényi in 1952 are being concertedly taken forward for the future of individual mobility. • A high-voltage lithium-sulphur battery with a specific energy density of 350 Wh per kg at cell level, which allows considerably higher recuperation rates in combination with the e4MATIC all-wheel drive. • A control and display concept based on touch, speech and hand-gestures makes the F 125! a true "companion" with whom the driver is able to interact flexibly and effortlessly. The gull-wing doors of light-weight CRP construction can also be opened and closed by hand-gestures. • Highly attractive displays using 3D and projector-beam technology to open up new visual possibilities. • Next-generation, substantially networked telematics allow internet-based voice control, integration into social media and extensive remote control of vehicle settings and entertainment functions. • Innovative assistance systems for lasting driver stress relief, e.g. Advanced Driving Assist for semi-autonomous driving. • Trailblazing exterior and interior design based on a completely new saloon architecture. Revolutionary: structural integrated hydrogen composite storage unit To store the hydrogen as the fuel of the future, Mercedes engineers adapted a technology which is still the object of basic research. This opens up completely new perspectives with respect to the vehicle architecture and operating range. "The structural integrated hydrogen composite unit of the F 125! represents a real technological revolution, as it allows the hydrogen tank to be fully integrated into the bodyshell structure for the first time. In the future, vehicles with emission-free fuel cell drive systems could achieve the operating ranges of current diesel models with no loss of interior space," says Prof. Dr. Thomas Weber. Based on the current level of know-how, Mercedes specialists consider it possible that they may develop this technology to series production level from 2025. The tank integrated into the floor assembly has a capacity of around 7.5 kg of hydrogen. Compared to the high-pressure tanks in use today, the H2 tank potentially requires less installation space. This is because to withstand a pressure of up to 700 bar, current tanks need to be cylindrical in shape, and owing to this round cross-section there are inevitably "cavities" between tanks installed next to or above each other. In contrast, tanks that can be filled at a pressure of 30 bar or less can be better integrated into the bodyshell. At the same time they are able to act as "structural" components. Lithium-sulphur battery: compact and powerful A highly advanced, very powerful lithium-sulphur battery is envisaged for the F 125!. It has a storage capacity of 10 kWh and is installed behind the rear seats. Combining the fuel cell drive system with the innovative lithium-sulphur battery makes a total operating range of up to 1000 km possible, of which up to 50 km can be under battery-electric power alone. It can be inductively charged at "intelligent" charging stations, and the convenient charging process can be monitored by smartphone. When designing the F 125!, the developers worked on the assumption that by the time of its introduction into series production, this battery type will be capable of energy densities up to 350 Wh per kg. This would represent roughly a doubling of current performance. The real potentials of this technology are however the subject of basic research, and are still difficult to assess at present. Further development of the fuel cell as an energy source At the heart of the drive system lies a particularly powerful further development of the Mercedes-Benz fuel cell stack which has demonstrated its efficiency and day-to-day suitability e.g. in the successful B-Class F-CELL World Drive this year. On 29 January, marking the 125th birthday of the automobile, Mercedes-Benz commenced the first circumnavigation of the globe with fuel cell powered electric cars in Stuttgart - covering more than 30,000 kilometres on four continents and through 14 countries. The three fuel cell powered B-Class cars and their backup vehicles returned safely to Stuttgart 125 days later. The stack in the F 125!, which is further improved with respect to performance, consumption and practical suitability, provides the power for four powerful electric motors installed near the wheels, which ensure sporty, superior performance figures. All in all the modular e4MATIC system, which also uses improved drive components from the SLS AMG E-CELL, generates a continuous output of 170 kW (231 hp) and a peak output of 230 kW (313 hp). This accelerates the F 125! to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds, with a top speed of 220 km/h. Nonetheless, NEDC fuel consumption is only 0.79 kilograms of hydrogen per 100 kilometres (= 2.7 litres diesel equivalent). Always online, always connected: "@yourCOMAND" With the visionary infotainment system "@yourCOMAND", the F 125! provides an outlook on future Mercedes-Benz telematic systems. Its trailblazing features include: In Natural Handling, operation is substantially by natural speech supplemented with touch and intuitive hand-gestures. In the interests of maximum driver-fitness and operating safety, the F 125! becomes the perfect, always alert companion for its driver and passengers. The possibilities go well beyond those of current systems. The driver can e.g. request news items that are tailored to his personal needs, and make specific, contextual enquiries, without removing his hands from the wheel. The COMAND of tomorrow also becomes proactive. In the future, the driver will be able to start with the traffic report or retrieve personal messages before the selected music programme begins. The weather report will then automatically come on before the journey ends, for example. Thanks to the mood-based configuration function "Moods", such individual adjustments will be completed in a matter of seconds in future. The F125! also opens up completely new dimensions when it comes to external communication and the use of social networks. With the help of the Social Community Assistant, the driver alone can decide who is allowed to "disturb" him, or who receives information. Thanks to the Seamless Experience functions, the multimedia systems of the F 125! are seamlessly and cross-functionally networked, socially interactive and non-distracting. The exchange of information is no longer impeded or interrupted on journeys, but is an integral part of the concept. Because of constant connectivity with the Cloud, the driver has seamless access to all the media he normally uses. The tedious synchronisation of different communication and entertainment devices is also completely eliminated. The so-called "digital lifestyle" of many customers can therefore be continued both seamlessly and safely when on board. Sensory Perfection in the F 125! means high-end sound and high-resolution screens with brilliant, individual displays. If required, the autostereoscopic 3D display for spatial representation of the instrument cluster is able to show relevant information in clustered form. The 3D image adapts natural visual habits, allows a better overview and thus relieves the driver of stress. The head unit in the upper section of the centre console uses projector-beam technology, and is controlled via a touchpad with 3D fingertracking located within easy reach of the driver. In addition to the head unit, the integrated selection bar enables the instrument cluster and rear-view display to be selected. Activated in this way, these displays can also be centrally operated. A further, retractable 17-inch display is installed on the front passenger side, and this is fully controlled by hand gestures. In this way a rear passenger can select his personal film programme with no physical contact. A high-resolution wide-image display allows the entire traffic situation behind the vehicle to be conveniently monitored, and makes exterior mirrors unnecessary. The image is adapted to human perceptive powers at all times, and once again provides a much clearer overview with more rapid and intuitive registration of the relevant traffic situation. The vehicle and its multimedia system, as well as all applications and contents, can be completely remote-controlled using the Remote Convenience functions. This e.g. means that via the vehicle's specific homepage, authorised individuals have access at all times to information such as the fuel level, next scheduled service or fuel consumption. Just as easily, a home PC or of course a smartphone can be used for remote configuration of the onboard navigation or entertainment system, and to select individual interior temperature settings for each seat. New assistance systems: recognising dangers, travelling in style With the help of innovative driver assistance systems, the touring saloon of the future defuses even "invisible" hazards and relieves driver stress in many standard situations. If the driver requires, the F 125! is able to carry out frequently occurring driving manoeuvres autonomously. Advanced Driving Assist allows lane-changes on multi-lane, one-way roads, and in a further development stage even automatic overtaking manoeuvres. Thanks to radio-based networking with the environment, so-called Car-to-X communi-cation, the F 125! is also able to exchange information with other vehicles, a specially equipped infrastructure incl. traffic lights or warning signs and traffic control centres. Specific applications might include a warning of approaching emergency service vehicles, well before the driver can see or hear them, a reminder that other vehicles have the right of way at obscure road junctions, or obstacles on the road. Mobility of the future – Utopias shaping our tomorrow It was visionaries and dreamers who prepared the way for "automobility". The first tentative steps were taken at the end of the 19th Century – in a techno-logical environment where the steam engine dominated the world of power generation. The steam locomotive added motion to this machine, and tracks were laid everywhere. The idea of fitting coach-like vehicles with compact, fast-running internal combustion engines to make individual, easy and comfortable mobility possible beyond the railway tracks was seen as "utopian" at the time – i.e. synonymous with "science fiction" or "fantasy". Visionary engineers and utopians such as Carl Benz, Gottlieb Daimler, Wilhelm Maybach or Rudolf Diesel refused to be daunted, however. With the F 125! Mercedes-Benz is once again demonstrating this pioneering spirit. F 125! – a specific outlook on the vision of emission-free driving With the new Mercedes-Benz research vehicle, the vision of emission-free driving with large, luxurious automobiles takes on a concrete form. The F 125! shows that the mobility of the future is emission-free and sustainable, comfortable and visually very appealing. It embodies technical and design innovation, and shows the way towards a society able to cope without fossil fuels |
| Report: Foxconn's Brazil factory ready for business, will begin shipping iPads in December Posted: 16 Sep 2011 03:15 AM PDT  |
| Google expands Voice Actions across Europe, with multi-language support (video) Posted: 16 Sep 2011 02:05 AM PDT  |
| Sony unveils $300 RDP-X500iP speaker dock, gives your iPad some sonic assistance Posted: 16 Sep 2011 01:40 AM PDT  SONY INTRODUCES PREMIUM iPAD COMPATIBLE SPEAKER DOCK WITH INNOVATIVE SOUND TECHNOLOGIES Sony's #1 Selling Dock for iPod Also Revamped with Enhanced Features San Diego, CA – September 14, 2011 - Sony today announced two new speaker docks, a premium, iPad® compatible model with built-in subwoofer (RDP-X500iP) and a successor to Sony's most popular speaker dock (ICF-CS15iP). Both offer premium sound quality, sleek design and easy-to-use functionality. Made for most iPod®, iPhone® and iPad®, the RDP-X500iP speaker dock features a beautifully modern design while delivering innovative sound technologies. Its built-in subwoofer, Clear Phase™ DSP and groundbreaking magnetic fluid speakers work in concert to provide a superior audio experience. An auxiliary audio input facilitates connection to other sources for easy access to music, wherever it is stored. For a convenient listening experience, a full function remote control is also included. The RDP-X500iP boasts Sony's state-of-the-art DMC technology, a combination of Dual Passive Radiators, Magnetic Fluid Speakers and Clear Phase DSP sound processing. In conjunction with its built-in subwoofer, dual passive radiators provide powerful bass response in a remarkably compact form factor. Rather than using conventional drivers, speakers with damperless magnetic fluid technology are employed, delivering higher sound pressure levels, clearer vocals, and less distortion. In addition, Sony's unique Clear Phase linear phase correction circuitry further reduces distortion and increases sound presence, making music sound crisp and clear. With a luxurious design and stainless steel accents, the dock adds style to any home. Its unique speaker layout not only saves space and features a sophisticated design, but improves sound efficiency as well. Sony's most popular speaker dock is now even better with the introduction of the ICF-CS15iP. Not only does it support charging and playback of the iPod and iPhone, it also delivers great stereo sound via its MEGA BASS and Mega Xpand sound modes. The MEGA BASS mode provides an option to enhance bass response, while the Mega Xpand mode expands the music sound field for a full, rich audio experience. Dual alarm functionality allows users to set two independent wake-up alarms, while the 2-5-7 day alarm feature supports different settings for weekdays and weekends, all with the option of waking up to an iPod, iPhone, AM/FM radio, or buzzer. The new flexible dock connector is designed to accommodate docking and charging an iPod or iPhone without removing it from its case. A full function remote control gives users access to music on an iPod or iPhone from across the room. Both speaker docks will be available October 2011 at Sony Stores including online at www.sony.com/docks and other authorized retailers nationwide. Pre-orders are available now. |
| Valeo Park4U turns your phone into a valet parking service (video) Posted: 16 Sep 2011 01:09 AM PDT  [Thanks, Texas] |
| BlackBerry Curve Touch 9380 'Orlando' poses for the masses, invites you to look... but not touch Posted: 16 Sep 2011 12:23 AM PDT  |
| Visualized: PS Vita in eight unlikely colors, mockup game cards chill on the sidelines Posted: 15 Sep 2011 11:46 PM PDT   |
| Wooden Sega Saturn laptop sits nicely on your antique dresser Posted: 15 Sep 2011 11:11 PM PDT  If there's one thing better than a new Ben Heck mod, it's seeing something his army of apprentices has cooked up. This time, Turkish modder c_mon has produced a striking wooden Sega Saturn laptop. It's got a 5-inch LCD screen pulled from a Sony PSOne in the lid, built-in speakers and a fan to keep things cool in the enclosure. The case copies the mould lines from the original Saturn, with the natty addition of an electroluminescent wire that puts us in mind of Tron when the device is running. Keen-eyed visitors to our gallery below will notice that the laptop's lid actually bears the logo of Saturn automobiles -- it's deliberate as the modder couldn't get his CNC (Computer Numerical Control) cutter to play nicely with Sega's curved logo. Incorrect marque or not, we can all agree it's much more handsome than previous efforts. |
| Samsung Epic 4G Touch now available to all on Sprint.com Posted: 15 Sep 2011 10:12 PM PDT  [Thanks, tiwey] |
| New 'subconscious mode' could improve smartphone battery life, supress your WiFi id Posted: 15 Sep 2011 09:46 PM PDT  Researchers at the University of Michigan have figured out a way to drastically increase your cellphone's battery life, at least while using WiFi. By using what they're calling E-MiLi, or Energy-Minimizing Idle Listening, professor Kang Shin (right) and student Xinyu Zhang have developed a proof of concept that could extend battery life up to 54-percent with the WiFi radio on. Even when idle, a wireless radio is actively checking for incoming traffic. E-MiLi scales back the wireless card's clock to just 1/16th of its normal operating speed, and only kicks back into full gear when it senses incoming data. To be really useful though, we'd love to see the same trick employed on cellular data networks -- that LTE sure is fast, but it's not exactly battery-friendly. Check out the PR after the break. Smartphone battery life could dramatically improve with new invention ANN ARBOR, Mich.---A new "subconscious mode" for smartphones and other WiFi-enabled mobile devices could extend battery life by as much as 54 percent for users on the busiest networks. University of Michigan computer science and engineering professor Kang Shin and doctoral student Xinyu Zhang will present their new power management approach Sept. 21 at the ACM International Conference on Mobile Computing and Networking in Las Vegas. The approach is still in the proof-of-concept stage and is not yet commercially available. Even when smartphones are in power-saving modes and not actively sending or receiving messages, they are still on alert for incoming information and they're searching for a clear communication channel. The researchers have found that this kind of energy-taxing "idle listening" is occurring during a large portion of the time phones spend in power-saving mode---as much as 80 percent on busy networks. Their new approach could make smartphones perform this idle listening more efficiently. It's called E-MiLi, which stands for Energy-Minimizing Idle Listening. To find out how much time phones spend keeping one ear open, Shin and Zhang conducted an extensive trace-based analysis of real WiFi networks. They discovered that, depending on the amount of traffic in the network, devices in power-saving modes spend 60 to 80 percent of their time in idle listening. In previous work, they demonstrated that phones in idle listening mode expend roughly the same amount of power as they do when they're fully awake. "My phone isn't sending or receiving anything right now," Shin said, lifting his power-skinned iPhone, "but it's listening to see if data is coming in so I can receive it right away. This idle listening often consumes as much power as actively sending and receiving messages all day." Here's how E-MiLi works: It slows down the WiFi card's clock by up to 1/16 its normal frequency, but jolts it back to full speed when the phone notices information coming in. It's well known that you can slow a device's clock to save energy. The hard part, Shin said, was getting the phone to recognize an incoming message while it was in this slower mode. "We came up with a clever idea," Shin said. "Usually, messages come with a header, and we thought the phone could be enabled to detect this, as you can recognize that someone is calling your name even if you're 90 percent asleep." When used with power-saving mode, the researchers found that E-MiLi is capable of reducing energy consumption by around 44 percent for 92 percent of mobile devices in real-world wireless networks. In addition to new processor-slowing software on smartphones, E-MiLi requires new firmware for phones and computers that would be sending messages. They need the ability to encode the message header---the recipient's address---in a new and detectable way. The researchers have created such firmware, but in order for E-MiLi use to become widespread, WiFi chipset manufacturers would have to adopt these firmware modifications and then companies that make smartphones and computers would have to incorporate the new chips into their products. Shin points out that E-MiLi is compatible with today's models, so messages sent with future devices that use E-MiLi's encoding would still be received as usual on smartphones without E-MiLi. E-MiLi can also be used with other wireless communication protocols that require idle listening, such as ZigBee. Shin is the Kevin and Nancy O'Connor Professor of Computer Science. This research was funded by the National Science Foundation. The paper is titled "E-MiLi: Energy-Minimizing Idle Listening in Wireless Networks." The university is pursuing patent protection for the intellectual property, and is seeking commercialization partners to help bring the technology to market. |
| Nokia: first Windows Phones still shipping by end of year Posted: 15 Sep 2011 09:09 PM PDT  Somewhere in the world, sometime between October 1st and December 31st, somebody will be able to purchase a Nokia-branded Windows Phone. Exactly where, when, or who is still in question. But Nokia at least took to the Twittersphere to reassure the masses that the company is still aiming to release a Windows Phone by the end of the year, though we likely won't be seeing it ship in large volumes until early next year. Curiously enough, Nokia Australia's Twitter account was included within the short message, which makes us wonder if they're tossing a little clue our way. We're hoping to have another entry on our Black Friday shopping list -- not that it's short as it is, of course. |
| CEDIA 2011 odds and ends wrap up: THX, TiVo and plenty of projectors Posted: 15 Sep 2011 08:41 PM PDT  As far as the hardware on display, we also got a look at TiVo's new Premiere Elite DVR (hint: it looks and runs like a TiVo) and Dish Network's new Tailgater portable satellite dish. Another treat was an MHL-to-HDMI adapter from DVDO that could make hooking your celly up to pretty much any TV on the go and charging it at the same time easy. At the THX booth, it had its stamp slapped on LG's newest Nano LED lit 3D LCD, as well as a new program for soundbar / subwoofer combinations it says will result in more accurate sound for implementations where surround speakers don't make sense. We also got a demo of its new Media Director protocol that can automatically configure compatible home theater equipment based on the content being watched. The Star Wars Blu-ray discs will be the first ones to ship with the embedded metadata, while partnerships with chipmakers mean software updates could start rolling out shortly for manufacturers that choose to deliver them -- the demo ran on an HDI Dune player -- and next year's new devices should ship with the feature included. The usual slew of projectors included new models from Mitsubishi and Digital Projection, with automatic settings for ultrawidescreen viewing as one of the hot features (other than 4K) this year. For a better look at some of the things we spotted on the show floor check the gallery below, and details in their press releases after the break. THX® EXPANDS MEDIA DIRECTOR™ ECOSYSTEM WITH COLLABORATION FROM LEADING SEMICONDUCTOR CHIP COMPANIES Analog Devices, Sigma Designs, Silicon Image and Quantum Data Implement THX Media Director™, Helping CE Manufacturers Easily Deliver THX Media Director Enabled Devices to Consumers INDIANAPOLIS (CEDIA 2011 – Booth # 1543), September 8, 2011-THX Ltd. today announced that Analog Devices, Sigma Designs, Silicon Image and Quantum Data, are providing industry-leading silicon solutions and HDMI protocol testing platform support that now make it easier for CE manufacturers to implement THX Media Director™ into Blu-ray players, AV receivers, TVs and projectors. THX's unique technology transforms movies, music and other digital media into metadata or "smart content" that enables A/V components to auto-select the most appropriate audio and video playback settings, preserving the content creator's artistic intent. Audience Benefits: CE manufacturers can rapidly introduce THX Media Director enabled products to consumers, with the new chip and testing platform partner support of this technology THX Media Director enabled devices give installers flexibility in configuring systems, with higher assurance that playback settings will remain correct as viewers switch between content Adding THX Media Director metadata to titles, studios improve the consumer entertainment experience; producers and directors can be assured their creations will be played back the way they intended As the THX Media Director ecosystem continues to expand, consumers benefit from an overall enhanced entertainment experience – home entertainment products that simply deliver movies, games, TV programming and more, as the artist intended "With support from worldwide leading chipmakers Analog Devices, Sigma Designs and Silicon Image, THX is further extending the foundation of its THX Media Director platform," said Rick Dean, senior vice president, THX Ltd. "CE manufacturers will now be able to source these chips for THX Media Director enabled devices, such as Blu-ray players, AV receivers, TVs and projectors." Semiconductor Chip Partner Support And Significance Analog Devices, Sigma Designs and Silicon Image have contributed significantly to the initial implementations of THX Media Director and have enhanced their products that support industry standards (CEA-861 and HDMI) and features (multiple Vendor Specific InfoFrame (VSI) processing), facilitating easy implementation by CE manufacturers. Analog Devices, a global leader in high-performance signal processing and supplier of Advantiv® advanced TV solutions for the world's largest consumer OEMs, recently announced its ADV7850 HDMI Complete AV Front-end chip, which supports the implementation of THX Media Director along with all commonly used interfaces associated with HDTVs and home theater applications. At CEDIA 2011, part of THX's demo will show how ADI's ADV7850 HDMI Complete AV Front-end can support, detect and process THX Media Director's special embedded VSI codes from a variety of sources (Blu-ray player, game platform, set-top-box, HD camcorder, etc.) to the display Sigma Designs – As the leading provider of system-on-chip (SoC) solutions for both video and media processing, Sigma Designs' SMP864x, SMP865x and SMP8910 family of chips power Connected Media players, Set-top-boxes and AVRs from leading CE brands, and now makes it easier for CE manufacturers to rapidly introduce THX Media Director enabled products directly to consumers Silicon Image – As a leading provider of wired and wireless connectivity solutions that enable the reliable distribution and presentation of high-definition content for consumer electronics, mobile and PC markets, Silicon Image has announced THX Media Director support in seven HDMI® port processors and transmitters; these can be implemented into end-to-end solutions for a variety of digital TVs and home theater consumer devices In addition, Quantum Data, a worldwide provider of video test equipment, has joined THX Media Director's growing list of partners to provide an additional layer of support for any chip maker or CE manufacturer looking to implement THX Media Director technology. Working with THX to develop and implement Media Director compatible tests, Quantum Data can verify, test, simulate and validate that manufacturers' products are in full compliance with THX's technology. Star Wars: The Complete Saga On Blu-Ray – First THX Media Director Enabled Blu-Ray Disc With the THX Media Director foundation in place, THX also announced that the soon to be released Star Wars: The Complete Saga on Blu-ray will be the first Blu-ray disc with THX Media Director enabled content on discs 1-6, available across several territories, including USA/Canada. Marking an almost 30 year relationship, THX worked closely with Lucasfilm to identify and preserve the best possible picture and sound playback settings so fans can sit back and experience Star Wars as it was intended. THX will introduce additional THX Media Director enabled titles, for the highest-quality 2D and 3D home entertainment experience possible, in Q4'11 and into 2012. With the growth of THX's Media Director ecosystem along with continual investment in its THX cineSpace™ Color Management Software and upcoming critical viewing Room Certification services, THX is providing the tools and expertise along the full production chain, resulting in an exceptional consumer entertainment experience. THX is also exhibiting at IBC this week, with a THX booth located at Hall 7, Stand 7.K01. For the latest THX Room Certification and THX cineSpace technology announcements, please visit THX New Room Certification Release 9/9/11 and THX cineSpace Updates Release 9/9/2011. About THX Ltd. From the big screen to your screen, THX ignites your passion for exciting entertainment experiences. Founded by George Lucas and recognized by audiences around the globe, THX is synonymous with the design and certification of world-class cinemas, premium audio systems, HDTVs, and blockbuster movies and games. Products featuring THX defy convention and define quality in their class, whether in the cinema, home or on the road. About Star Wars: The Complete Saga On Blu-Ray Relive the unforgettable moments and experience the spectacular adventure of STAR WARS The Complete Saga in a way only Blu-ray can deliver. This incredible collection unites all six Episodes together for the first time in stunning high definition with the purest digital sound in the galaxy. With over 40 hours of thrilling special features, including all-new content created exclusively for this release, you can journey deeper into the Star Wars universe and discover more than ever before. Feel the Force of STAR WARS The Complete Saga on Blu-ray this September! DVDO UNVEILS THE DVDO MOBILE HIGH-DEFINITION TRAVEL KIT All-in-One, Portable MHL-to-HDMI Adapter and Multi-Charger for People on the Move SUNNYVALE, Calif., September 6, 2011 – DVDO, an award-winning provider of high- quality video processing solutions, today announced the expansion of its product line with the DVDO Mobile high-definition (HD) travel kit, an all-in-one, portable MHL™-to-HDMI® adapter and multi-charger for people on the move. Leveraging the latest advancements in wired HD connectivity, DVDO Mobile supports the MHL standard, which allows smartphone and tablet charging to take place while simultaneously viewing premium content from the devices to a HD projector, monitor or HDTV. DVDO Mobile allows consumers to use their MHL-enabled smartphones and tablets with any HDTV with an HDMI connection. With an increasingly mobile workforce and more content being stored on devices such as smartphones and tablets, a portable HD connectivity solution that untangles the cable jumble and delivers multiple charging options is important. Personal media, photos, videos, and music as well as applications and other services will now be viewable on large screen HDTVs in homes and hotels as well as business venues with HDMI-enabled projectors. Television and projector remotes can also control any MHL-enabled smartphone or tablet, for easy, no-hands operation of the device, as long as HDTVs support appropriate HDMI Consumer Electronics Control (CEC) commands and appropriate software has been downloaded into DVDO Mobile from the DVDO website. DVDO Mobile has an integrated 20-inch USB-A connector, an 8-inch micro-USB connector with a 46-inch total span that recoils with wrap-and-hide cable management and a 36-inch HDMI connector to link the solution to an HDTV or an HD projector or monitor. Multiple charging options are also available with an integrated USB-to-PC connector and a USB-to- AC charger. In addition, DVDO Mobile's support of USB allows high-speed data transfer between devices such as smartphones and tablets and PCs for content management and device software updating. "The mobile market is continuing to grow and DVDO Mobile is the must-have mobile accessory to harness the power of the latest MHL-enabled smartphones and tablets in a sleek and portable package," said Joseph Lias of DVDO. "DVDO Mobile enhances DVDO's heritage of delivering innovative and cost-effective HD processing and connectivity products, while focusing on the changing needs of increasingly mobile end users." |
| Purdue University grad students give NASA lander tech a boost, do it for the experience Posted: 15 Sep 2011 08:03 PM PDT  |
| Boost Mobile to tack $5 onto monthly Android Unlimited plans beginning October 6th Posted: 15 Sep 2011 07:34 PM PDT  Does the Samsung Transform Ultra quench your thirst for a prepaid high-performance Android handset? That'll be an extra $5 a month, please. Boost Mobile sneakily attached the announcement to the end of this morning's press release like it was a Congressional bill, casually mentioning that its monthly Android Unlimited plans will see the additional charge as of October 6th. Grandfathered customers won't be affected -- at least, not until they upgrade to a new Android device, at which time they'll also be assessed the extra cost. Times they are a-changin', it seems. Head below to see the full announcement. Android Monthly Unlimited with Shrinkage Offer Coming Oct. 6 Effective Oct. 6, Boost Mobile will add an additional $5 monthly charge for unlimited data and messaging services offered on Android-powered devices. Like the existing Monthly Unlimited plan, the new Android plan includes unlimited nationwide talk, text, Web, email and calls to 411. In addition, the new Android Monthly Unlimited plan will still come with shrinking payments where the longer you stay, the less you pay. For every six on-time payments, the cost of a new customer's Android Monthly Unlimited plan will shrink by $5, eventually getting down to as low as $40 a month, only $5 more than the current Monthly Unlimited with Shrinkage. Payments do not need to be consecutive to qualify for the next savings milestone. For our current Monthly Unlimited customers, we hear you! Existing $50 Monthly Unlimited customers with Android devices as of Oct. 6 can keep their current price plan as long as they don't let their account expire. Existing Monthly Unlimited customers upgrading to a CDMA Android-powered device on or after Oct. 6, will add a $5 monthly charge on their current monthly payment without losing any of their accrued Shrinkage savings. |
| Pioneer intros Hello Kitty cordless phone, calls the '90s to brag Posted: 15 Sep 2011 07:01 PM PDT  Is your passion for cordless phones only matched by your love of Hello Kitty? Boy have we got the product for you. From a technical standpoint, the TF-FN2000 is a largely unexceptional cordless phone / answering machine combo with a display that offers up phone numbers and missed calls. This edition does has a secret weapon, however: it's pink, covered in hearts and has an image of an adorable white cat with a bow. If that's good enough for you -- and you happen to live in Japan -- the phone will be available in early October. No word yet on pricing. |
| Ca-Fi is an aftermarket Android car stereo that won't fit in your dashboard Posted: 15 Sep 2011 06:27 PM PDT   A perfect match: Automobile Infotainment system running on Android ™ Innotrends Ltd, a Hong Kong based company, has in collaboration with hardware and software developers created an innovative 2-DIN Car infotainment system that is built on Android ™ 2.3 and powered by a 1.2 GHz processor. Their Ca-Fi system will be among the first Android™ systems to be launched on the market. A 3G modem allows surfing the Internet, as well as downloading apps for a variety of purposes, such as navigation or fuel consumption monitoring. Furthermore, the device has Bluetooth hands-free calling, music streaming and can connect to steering wheel stereo controls. The Ca-Fi system interface is a 6.2 inch touch screen LCD, with a resolution of 800 * 480 pixels. The screen is large enough to have ease of access to applications and GPS. In addition to the 4x45W audio, output connections are available for camera, USB and antennas. Supplemented by a DVD player, two slots for MicroSD cards for multimedia and navigation data, the Ca-Fi system is a real information and entertainment center for automobiles. The Ca-Fi system, in contrast to the "in-house" developments in the automotive industry, provides the user maximum freedom in customization. The infotainment system will be shown for the first time at the Hong Kong Electronics Fair from October 13th to 16th. Market launch in Europe is planned for spring 2012. Internet: www.ca-fi.com Innotrends Ltd was founded in March 2011 with objective of providing mobile connectivity to the mass market with innovative high quality products. Further information and media data can be found on the Innotrends website: www.innotrends.com |
| PayPal to add mobile payment features, hopes to redefine how we shop (till we drop) Posted: 15 Sep 2011 06:01 PM PDT  |
| Dublin City University adopts Chromebooks -- time to go streaking through the quad! Posted: 15 Sep 2011 05:39 PM PDT  |
| Bose unveils SoundLink wireless mobile speaker, fancies up A2DP for a premium (hands-on) Posted: 15 Sep 2011 05:11 PM PDT  Ah, Bose -- give it an audio product and it'll be sure to add that seemingly unnecessary luxury feel, minus the hard hitting details. If you'll recall, the Massachusetts-based company had quietly pushed some new 'wares through the FCC this past week, but with not so much as a sliver of info. Today in the Big Apple, it finally let us in on one new item, the SoundLink wireless mobile speaker. Priced at $300 and up, this unit is a "portable" A2DP Bluetooth speaker weighing in at around three pounds with less than two-inches of depth -- basically, it's massive against similar speakers like the Jawbone Jambox or foxL v2. We had the opportunity today to spend a few minutes with this opulent gizmo, and you'll find all the details just past the break. The device has an elegant overall look, and feels very solid in hand. Up top, you'll find all of your playback controls, and on the back, a power jack, 3.5mm audio input and a micro-USB for future firmware updates. It has the vibe of the company's larger Wave speakers you may have seen on a late night infomercial. Interestingly, the SoundLink uses a folding magnetic cover to protect its grill in transit and keep the unit and buttons functionless, conversely letting it turn on when opened and acting as a stand when in use.  Two hex screws on the bottom keep it attached, meaning you'll be able to swap it for other colors when the mood strikes. The base model comes with a dark grey cover for $300, and the premium LX variant scores you dark brown leather for about 50 bucks more -- spendy. Bose will also separately offer said covers in red or purple nylon for 30 bucks, and burgundy or tan leather for $50 -- Smart Cover, meet speaker. The leather blends great with the silver color of the speaker, but the bright nylons feel like an odd attempt at trying to be hip with the youngsters. Imagine taking your grandparent's champagne-tinged sedan and then adding sports car-like racing stripes; it's kind of like that.  Using the device was extremely straightforward. Upon opening the flap and powering on, it automatically goes into Bluetooth pairing mode to search for nearby devices. Within about 15 seconds the speaker was recognized by our iPad and we were ready to stream. The sound quality was by no means amazing, but for a Bluetooth speaker it was certainly loud enough to reach ear-ringing levels and clearer than we'd have expected. Still, at higher volumes there was some noticeable distortion going on -- especially noticeable with heavy rock tracks. The problem is that just like with the Jambox, our music felt constrained and the overall sound felt unfilled. Once we stepped about three feet back, stereo separation was all but gone, which is a shame considering we were able to walk over 20 feet away from it without losing signal. Furthermore, despite having those dual radiators for the low end, any dubstep we played through it turned into treblestep. To be perfectly clear, for average listening the SoundLink certainly does a respectable job for what it is. But alas, the SoundLink feels overpriced for the audio quality, given the similar sound we've heard from far less expensive alternatives. If you're finding yourself mildly intrigued, it's available as we speak in the source link below. Bose Introduces SoundLink® Wireless Mobile Speaker A New Kind of Bluetooth® Speaker: Audio Performance, Mobility and Durability FRAMINGHAM, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Today, Bose has introduced the SoundLink® Wireless Mobile speaker, a portable speaker that connects wirelessly to any Bluetooth enabled device. Now, the music from a smartphone or tablet can be streamed at the touch of a button and played out loud anywhere -- with a level of audio performance, mobility and durability that's entirely new for Bluetooth speakers. The SoundLink® Wireless Mobile speaker will be available from Bose and select authorized dealers worldwide beginning September 15, 2011. "Bluetooth speakers have been available before today, but we believe the SoundLink® Wireless Mobile speaker represents a step forward -- a better experience" "People want to listen to their music everywhere," said John Roselli, director of Bose Product Marketing. "And millions of consumers already own Bluetooth enabled devices like the iPhone, iPad and Android phones that can store thousands of songs. But there hasn't been a way to experience that content like the SoundLink® Wireless Mobile speaker. With no wires or docking needed, its magic becomes evident the first time you hold it, and the first time you hear it." A New Kind of Audio Bose engineers developed inventions to do something that hadn't been done to date: reproduce full-range audio from a single, hand-held enclosure. The SoundLink® speaker's audio impact defies its size. It combines four low-profile neodymium transducers for clear high- and mid-frequencies, with new dual-opposing passive radiators -- designed with a patented waffle-shaped surround -- for rich, deep, low notes. With the radiators placed in an opposing fashion, vibration is eliminated, turning the energy into acoustic power. The speaker's audio package is complemented with sophisticated electronics, including Bose® digital signal processing algorithms, to reproduce instrument definition and detail at any volume. A New Kind of Mobility Delivering quality sound wasn't enough: the SoundLink® Mobile speaker had to meet other rigid criteria to achieve its design goals. At less than two inches thick, and no bigger than an average book, it can easily fit in a bag, backpack or briefcase. For instant setup, its integrated cover unfolds into a stand. Open the cover, and the system is ready to be played. Close it, and the system shuts off. A rechargeable lithium-ion battery supplies power for more than three hours at high volume, and for more than eight hours at typical listening levels, making it ideal for the beach, park, party, home, or office. A New Kind of Durability The SoundLink® speaker is a road warrior. While no mobile device can endure every circumstance, the SoundLink® speaker was built to withstand the rigors of daily use like no other product in its category. It was tested in Bose environmental labs to resist salt-fog, sand, wind, and moisture. And using end-caps made from automotive-grade chrome, it will survive being dropped -- repeatedly. The Convenience of Wireless The SoundLink® Mobile speaker features Advanced Audio Distribution Profile (A2DP) and a powerful antenna for a reliable wireless audio connection. Pairing takes moments, and wirelessly connecting to a smartphone or tablet is as easy as pressing one button on the speaker's control panel. The six most recently used Bluetooth® devices are stored in memory, eliminating the need to pair again. And music can be streamed while texting, emailing or web-browsing. "Bluetooth speakers have been available before today, but we believe the SoundLink® Wireless Mobile speaker represents a step forward -- a better experience," said Roselli. "We also believe that people will reach for it again and again, and enjoy their music in ways and places they never imagined." Trim Options, Accessories, Availability The SoundLink® Wireless Mobile speaker comes with a standard trim level and a dark gray Cordura® nylon cover for $299.95, or in the LX model, with a premium trim level and a dark brown leather cover for $349.95. Accessory covers in nylon (bright red or royal purple) and leather (burgundy or tan) are available separately for $29.95 and $49.95, respectively. The SoundLink® Mobile speaker and its accessory covers will be sold at Bose retail stores, www.Bose.com, toll-free at 1-800-444-BOSE (2673) and at select authorized Bose dealers. |
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