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- Seven-inch Huawei tablet headed to T-Mobile, priced at $200 on contract?
- HTC Holiday spotted sunning itself on Australian shores
- The Engadget Podcast, live at 5:00PM ET!
- Microsoft announces new $10 Zune Music Pass, expands service to Canada
- ZTE Smart Tab 10 makes its way through FCC with Vodafone branding
- Dell confirms XPS 14z will go on sale in the US in the 'coming weeks'
- iPhone 5 cases and realistic unibody dummy show off incredible slimness
- Kobo's Vox Android tablet appears online briefly, gets Canadian release date and pricing
- Iceland gets a data center to call its own, still believes in fairies
- IRL: Sony NEX-C3, Garmin Forerunner 110 and the Elgato Turbo.264 HD
- Microsoft reportedly adding video from Comcast, Verizon, HBO Go and others to Xbox Live
- Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc S available now on Vodafone UK
- HTC Holiday hits the FCC, ready to deliver AT&T's LTE to 3-percent of Americans
- Softbank takes Dell Streak Pro 101DL by the hand, plans January 2012 coming out party (video)
- iPhone 5 to have 21Mbps HSPA+ data? China Unicom says so
- Lenovo ThinkPad Tablet review
- Google to build a trio of data centers in Asia, earmarks $200 million for expansion
- T-Mobile joins Verizon to support Samsung in Apple patent lawsuit
- Sony to stop paying for movie theater 3D glasses, theater owners fire back
- Skype 2.5 for Android brings video calls to 14 new devices, including Honeycomb tablets
- Sharp's Aquos Phone 102SH brings 3D qHD display, 12 megapixel CMOS sensor to Japan
- Sprint set to end Bill to Account program on October 5th, all equipment must be purchased outright
- ASUS announces Ivy Bridge PCI-Express motherboards, for early early-adopters
- LaCie's LaPlug turns your USB HDD into a network storage device, for LaPrice of $75 (video)
- HTC Sensation Z710t becomes first smartphone to offer ST-Ericsson's NovaThor SoC
- Life of George melds Lego bricks with iOS for 'digital-to-physical' gameplay, captures our hearts
- Huawei Honor gets video run-through, manages to hold the mobile court's attention
- The Nokia contraction continues: 3,500 further job losses and more on the horizon
- Long live the Samsung Taylor: prototype device to receive Mango?
- India's $35 tablet said to ship in October, do dreams really come true?
- HTC Explorer now official, we go hands-on (updated)
- Flickr unveils Android app, introduces real-time Photo Session feature (video)
- RIM details Android compatibility, apps written with NDK see Canadian visas declined
- OWC updates its Mercury Extreme Pro 3G SSD lineup, offers 30GBs for just $68
- Plantronics intros Marque M155, its lightest Bluetooth headset for smartphone users
- Gibson's Firebird X robot guitar finally ready to ship after a very, very long delay
- Panasonic shows us its softer side, intros trio of high-tech robotic helpers
- Disney launches two new Android smartphones, mouse ears not included
- Toshiba prepping new 560Mbps TransferJet chip
- Kyocera Duramax ready to kickoff Sprint's Direct Connect service on October 2nd for $70
| Seven-inch Huawei tablet headed to T-Mobile, priced at $200 on contract? Posted: 29 Sep 2011 02:18 PM PDT It looks like T-Mobile is getting a seven-inch stablemate for the incoming Galaxy Tab 10.1. According to these shots from TmoNews, Huawei's dual-core MediaPad will arrive in magenta clothing, though branding is limited to a few apps and an additional press shot, included after the break. Aside from a 1280 x 800 IPS display and 4G goodness, details remain sketchy, though pricing is expected to be around $200 with a two-year agreement. No word either when it'll go on sale, but if Huawei's earlier promises of end-of-year availability apply to carrier-branded versions, you can expect to get your hands on it at some (vague) point between now and 2012.  | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| HTC Holiday spotted sunning itself on Australian shores Posted: 29 Sep 2011 01:56 PM PDT Australian carrier Telstra has revealed this 4.5-inch colossus from HTC, and the above picture from CNET shows it's likely to arrive under its Holiday moniker. This is the first LTE smartphone announced for Australia, while something similarly tall, dark and Android recently arrived in Korea as the HTC Raider 4G. CNET reports specs that tally with that other model: the big screen is qHD and the power comes from a dual-core 1.5GHz CPU coupled with 1GB of RAM. Like the Raider, the Holiday appears to be running Sense 3.0, not the refreshed 3.5 iteration that debuted on the Rhyme, and it looks primed to be one of the first handsets to launch on AT&T's brand new 4G network. So, expect to hear more from Ma Bell on this "titanic" rival soon. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| The Engadget Podcast, live at 5:00PM ET! Posted: 29 Sep 2011 01:35 PM PDT  | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Microsoft announces new $10 Zune Music Pass, expands service to Canada Posted: 29 Sep 2011 01:16 PM PDT  [Thanks to everyone who sent this in] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ZTE Smart Tab 10 makes its way through FCC with Vodafone branding Posted: 29 Sep 2011 12:57 PM PDT  | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Dell confirms XPS 14z will go on sale in the US in the 'coming weeks' Posted: 29 Sep 2011 12:35 PM PDT  Remember that XPS 14z Dell teased at IFA? Yeah, well, it's arriving soon. As in, "the coming weeks" soon. The company just confirmed it's on the cusp of shipping here in the states, and while the outfit stopped short of giving a starting price, it's good and ready to talk specs. As we reported last month, it has the same industrial design as its big brother, the XPS 15z, and we're told it, too, measures less than an inch thick (0.9 inches, to be precise). With the 14-incher, though, you'll enjoy LG's Shuriken display, which means we have one narrow bezel to look forward to. Look for it with a Core i5-2430M or Core i7-2640M CPU, NVIDIA Optimus graphics, a slot-loading optical drive, USB 3.0 and a starting weight of 4.36 pounds (that's 4.12 pounds if you upgrade to an SSD). You heard the company -- we'll get the full spill in a few weeks -- but for now, skip past the break for another sneak peak. Update: You want dimensions? We've got 'em. The XPS 14z measures 13.19 x 9.21 x 0.9 inches (335 x 234 x 23mm).  | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| iPhone 5 cases and realistic unibody dummy show off incredible slimness Posted: 29 Sep 2011 12:13 PM PDT  Earlier today we paid a visit to Shenzhen's Huaqiangbei, and once we dug deep enough, we soon found ourselves standing in front of a bunch of "iPhone 5" cases that were supposedly based on leaked tooling. In fact, according to M.I.C. Gadget, these plastic pieces first showed up in July, though there's still no solid evidence just yet to prove how legit they are; but then again, you may recall that the iPad 2's physical features were given away early by some cases as well, so this might be the same mishap all over again.  As you'll see in our hands-on photos above, the device that our cases are made to accommodate will be taller and wider yet also much thinner than the iPhone 4. In fact, we'd say this new device will have a similar footprint as the Galaxy S II but thinner, so the screen size will likely be the same 4.3 inches as well. That said, BENM.AT believes that it'll be a 4-inch display instead and hence the slightly smaller dummy. Regardless, it's still a good-looking paperweight. Some have wondered whether these cases are just for the next-generation iPod touch, but the opening for the mute switch suggests otherwise. Considering that this upcoming device can match the same thickness as the iPod touch while also packing the extra cellular circuitry and battery juice, everyone's bound to have very high expectations for the Apple event next Tuesday. We shall see. For now, enjoy the photos and a lengthy video below from BENM.AT.  | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Kobo's Vox Android tablet appears online briefly, gets Canadian release date and pricing Posted: 29 Sep 2011 11:53 AM PDT  A day after another little-known e-reader manufacturer announced a tablet, a new Android slate from Kobo made a brief online appearance on Future Shop's site, only to be quickly taken down. According to the Canadian retailer, the FCC-approved tablet will offer up a 7-inch display with a 1024 x 600 resolution, WiFi, a speaker (perhaps the reason behind the Vox name) and 8GB of storage. The tablet is apparently set for an October 17th release in that country, priced at $250 Canadian. [Thanks, Carolyn and Bart] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Iceland gets a data center to call its own, still believes in fairies Posted: 29 Sep 2011 11:34 AM PDT  | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| IRL: Sony NEX-C3, Garmin Forerunner 110 and the Elgato Turbo.264 HD Posted: 29 Sep 2011 11:14 AM PDT Welcome to IRL, an ongoing feature where we talk about the gadgets, apps and toys we're using in real life and take a second look at products that already got the formal review treatment.  It's been a hectic week, what with Amazon trotting out a little something you may have been expecting (along with a few things you weren't). We won't lie: some of us now know what we're getting our friends and family for the holidays, but gadgets we may or may not be purchasing doesn't cut the mustard for IRL, now does it? Until we pull the trigger, we'll keep on talking up and dressing down the stuff we're already using. This week, Jose from Engadget Spanish takes his newly minted NEX-C3 on vacation, Dana outgrows her Forerunner 110 and Darren shows you just how your hands-on video sausages get made. An Engadget hands-on video? Not without this. Elgato's Turbo.264 HD has been saving me storage (and time) for years. Put simply, it manages to compress every 720p or 1080p video I shoot -- be it for work or pleasure -- to around half the original size, and honestly, the quality difference is imperceptible on YouTube. Exporting an edited vid in iMovie? Oh, around six minutes for a 15-minute production. It has quite literally saved me hours on end, and my hard drives has a heck of a lot more free space on 'em due to the magic it works with file size. And I don't use the word "magic" lightly. For anyone who shoots a plethora of videos (and owns a Mac), this is one of the best $85 purchases you could ever make.On the downside, a physical USB stick is required to get the most out of it. Yeah, there's a software-only version, but it's not nearly as quick. Having to both remember a USB key and keep it safe from sliding face-first into the floor (I speak from experience) is an annoyance, and being the technophile that I am, I'd probably pay someone a solid fee for ripping my MacBook Pro open and infusing this thing to the internal circuitry. The only other negative? No Windows support. Seriously, Elgato -- it's time to reach across the aisle. You could charge double for this thing with Windows compatibility, and I know a slew of colleagues who'd be first in line. Get to it! -- Darren Murph On vacation with the NEX-C3 For a couple of years, my wife and I had been planning a trip to Asia. In preparation, we had to buy appropriate clothing (summer in Bangkok is no joke), get our visas and passports and, of course, acquire a new camera. I ordered my NEX-C3 and 18-55mm kit lens the week it went on sale, and told Zach Honig that if I didn't like it, I would send him the bill. He replied, "I'm not worried."As expected, the trip was fantastic, and while my wife didn't fully agree with my idea of buying a new camera before we left, she was more than pleased after seeing the results. We visited magical places like Beijing, Hong Kong, Singapore and Bangkok in late August / early September, the hottest time of the year. Carrying the NEX-C3 around my neck was not an issue, as opposed to what would have been the case if I had a full-bodied DSLR in tow. For about $18, I also purchased a small Case Logic case that strapped to my belt and allowed me to hide my wallet and camera while walking through street markets. Not everything is perfect, and I have to admit that I miss having a viewfinder, but the LCD does a decent job, even with the bright sun shining on it. I do worry that the screen isn't protected when not in use, so I avoid damage by just keeping the camera in its case. The NEX-C3 performed amazingly in all types of situations, including those of the low-light variety: hot and humid evenings in Hong Kong while taking pictures of the Symphony of Lights show, and dark nights in Bangkok with street vendors selling cockroaches and crickets. Walking up the Great Wall for a couple of hours was not easy, but I didn't even feel the weight of the camera. We now have over 2,000 amazing pictures of our trip, and they are of the best quality I could have ever asked for. -- Jose Andrade More bells and whistles, please It wasn't until I ran my first marathon last year that I felt worthy of a GPS-enabled watch. Just eighteen months earlier, I was managing a scant three miles at a time, so it was tough to justify a $200 toy when running merely felt like a hobby I'd taken up on a whim. Even after I got those 26.2 under my belt, I settled on the Garmin Forerunner 110. Sure, it was bare-bones, but it did everything I wanted it to -- namely, track my distance, time and pace.And track it does. The mileage count comes in handy as I attempt to monitor how far I've run in a given pair of sneakers (you're supposed to replace them every 300 to 500 miles, don'tcha know). Back before I got injured, the narcissist in me used to like seeing my pace drop as the weeks passed -- evidence that all those dead lifts and calf raises were working. The battery isn't quite what it used to be (it often shows three out of four bars after a night of recharging), but even that's enough to get me through a three-hour run with juice to spare. I've trotted it out in the rain and sub-freezing temps, but it still performs like a champ and doesn't have much wear-and-tear to show for it either. Friends, I want to sell it. It takes its sweet time to determine my location -- something newer models claim to do faster. I often page my coordinates minutes before my run, lest my training group takes off and I have to start the clock when I'm already half a mile out. The honeymoon really wore off this summer, when I was returning to running following a stress fracture, and used run-walk intervals (e.g., three minutes on, one minute off) as a way of easing myself back into the sport. The 110 doesn't do interval training, though everything above it in the lineup does. It means I have to glance at my watch and count the minutes, instead of wait for a beep when it's time to slow down. I know, I know: it's not the 110's fault it can't do what it doesn't promise to do. Nonetheless, I'm seriously considering trading up, even it means coping with some sticker shock. Better, I've learned, to buy a gadget with a few more bells and whistles than I think I need. -- Dana Wollman | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Microsoft reportedly adding video from Comcast, Verizon, HBO Go and others to Xbox Live Posted: 29 Sep 2011 10:55 AM PDT  | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc S available now on Vodafone UK Posted: 29 Sep 2011 10:34 AM PDT  | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| HTC Holiday hits the FCC, ready to deliver AT&T's LTE to 3-percent of Americans Posted: 29 Sep 2011 10:15 AM PDT  | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Softbank takes Dell Streak Pro 101DL by the hand, plans January 2012 coming out party (video) Posted: 29 Sep 2011 09:52 AM PDT  [Thanks, Babak] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| iPhone 5 to have 21Mbps HSPA+ data? China Unicom says so Posted: 29 Sep 2011 09:29 AM PDT  | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Posted: 29 Sep 2011 09:00 AM PDT  As you can imagine, we've been waiting months to learn more, and if your tweets, comments and emails are any indication, so have you. Well, wait no more, friends. We've been spending almost a week with one and have oh-so much to say. So what are you waiting for? Meet us past the break, won't you? Look and feel The first time we saw the ThinkPad Tablet, back in July, we were struck by its odd proportions. It wasn't just that this thing was on the plump side (after all, most slates with a full-sized USB port are). No, this tablet was simply... outsized. At 10. 3 x 7.2 x 0.6 inches (260.4 x 181.7 x 14mm), it's both taller and wider than the Galaxy Tab 10.1 (it measures 10.1 x 6.9 x .34 inches). On paper, that gulf might seem trivial, but the unusual shape was the first thing we noticed. Check the comparison above if you don't believe us! That, and its heft. At 1.58 pounds (715 grams), the ThinkPad Tablet feels like the serious productivity slate it claims to be. Because of the extra width, we found ourselves making an effort not to type in portrait mode, since the weight distribution felt particularly imbalanced. Fortunately, even though we felt some stretch in our thumbs while typing in landscape mode, we were still able to do so with relative ease, and discovered that holding the tablet that way made way more sense ergonomically. This tablet's heft is also offset, in part, by the fact that it's generally a well made device. And if you're the kind of person who already finds ThinkPads' red nubs and boxy chassis endearing, you might even call it handsome. The back side has a nice, soft finish -- one of many ways in which the ThinkPad Tablet borrows design elements from the laptops with the same name. The lid's also stamped with not one, but two logos -- metal Lenovo and ThinkPad insignias, placed catty-corner to each other. As an added flourish, the "i" in "ThinkPad" glows red when the tablet is powered on.  Yet another thing that makes this tablet visually striking: a row of four physical buttons, which line the bottom of the screen when you holding the tablet in portrait mode with the front-facing camera up top. These include one to lock the screen orientation, a browser launcher, a backward navigation key and your requisite home button. Alas, they're stiff -- very hard to press -- and we eventually gave up on our efforts to get used to them and simply stuck with the touchscreen. It's a shame, really, since that tactile experience could have been yet another way for Lenovo to hearken back to the experience of using a ThinkPad laptop. Taking a tour around the device, you'll also find a plethora of ports sitting just below that row of physical buttons. These include a door covering an SD reader and a 3G SIM card slot, along with an exposed docking connector, micro-USB port, mini-HDMI socket (1080p capable) and a headphone jack. On the opposite end (the other short edge), you'll find a volume rocker, along with a slot for the optional pen (much more on that in a moment). Moving along to the long edges, you've got a lone USB 2.0 port on one side, hidden behind a neat little sliding door, with a power / lock button rounding out the opposite side. Pen input Like the HTC Flyer, the ThinkPad Tablet uses N-Trig's DuoSense digitizer to allow for both pen and touch input. Also like the Flyer, the pen is sold separately, though in this case it comes for a slightly (keyword: slightly) less insulting price of $30. In a cute touch, Lenovo topped off the pen with a red cap -- a loving throwback to the signature pointing stick you'll find on any ThinkPad notebook. Inside the box, you'll also find two replaceable tips, so tiny you could easily toss them out with the packaging if you're not careful. It also includes a single AAAA battery, which you insert by screwing off the red top. Rounding out the lot, there's a thin string you can use to tether it to the tablet. Alas, there's not much you can do with the pen beyond the native note-taking app, aptly named Notes Mobile. When you launch the app, the first thing you'll see are a selection of different notebooks. One of them is merely a tutorial, but you can, if you wish, add books as you please, designating a new one for each client you meet, or conference call you have to take. The display responds smoothly to pen input, so you won't have to bear down as you're writing. The problem is, the handwriting recognition software just isn't precise enough. Even when we printed large, carefully written letters, the app misconstrued our words. We wrote "Go Home," it came back with "bottom." Two attempts at "Stop it" resulted in "Stop tt" and "Siip lt." To get the best results, we had to make a concerted effort to write legibly, either in printed letters or the kind of meticulous penmanship we honed back in elementary school -- which, you know, is totally how our writing looks as we're scrambling to keep up with speakers during meetings and lectures. Anyhow, hopefully this is something Lenovo can remedy through an update. Display and sound We've already established that the ThinkPad Tablet's 10.1-inch (1280 x 800) IPS, Gorilla Glass display isn't the most responsive in the land. But how does it look? Indeed, we enjoyed comfortable viewing angles from the sides and also with the tablet placed on a tablet in front of us -- and this was with an overhead light shining above, mind you. Still, even with the brightness pumped to the max, we weren't able to make out much while squinting at the screen outside on a cloudy day (not an unlikely scenario, especially if you hold out for one of the 3G-enabled versions). By the by, when it comes to media playback, you can play files off of SD cards and USB drives. As for that lone speaker, the sound quality is pleasant, though expect it to sound faint even with the volume cranked to its top setting. Cameras We know, we know. Tablet cameras are almost always disappointing and it feels like every time we review a new model, we proclaim its set of lenses to be the worst we've ever seen. So forgive us if we sound like a broken record, but the ThinkPad Tablet's five megapixel rear-facing cam is particularly bad. It just can't seem to do anything right. Even when we an our subjects were still and we chose relatively easy lighting conditions, our shots almost never looked sharp. Throughout our gallery, you'll notice a softness in the image quality -- not just in low light, but in pics taken on a slightly cloudy day. In some cases, the background is sharper than our intended subjects in the foreground. As for two megapixel camera tucked on the front side, we thought our shots were respectable, considering the lens' low resolution, but thanks to clumsy ergonomics there's no reason to use the front camera instead of your smartphone for stills. When you flip from still photos to 720p video, it's more of the same: not-exactly-sharp footage with some visible ghosting as cars and other fast-moving objects rumble on by. Performance
If you recall, we ended our time with the IdeaPad K1 feeling underwhelmed. The performance courtesy of NVIDIA's Tegra 2 SoC was poky and the display didn't always respond to our taps and swipes (to say nothing of the bulky, toy-like design). We hoped that as a higher-end product -- you know, the one carrying the storied ThinkPad name -- this one would be different, more polished. In retrospect, that was a stretch: Either Lenovo knows how to make a tablet or it doesn't. It might not surprise you, then, to know that we experienced similar issues this time around. Once again, the display screen wasn't always responsive, and we often found ourselves tapping multiple times before anything happened. In general, too, the tablet felt slow to open and minimize apps, regardless of whether we tapped the screen or pressed the physical buttons lining the lower bezel. Other times, the tablet simply wouldn't flip its screen orientation, even as we rotated the tablet in our hands. It's glitches like these that make the tablet feel buggy, unfinished. For the sake of consistency, we ran our usual raft of Android benchmarks, but alas, it's near-impossible to draw a firm conclusion from these numbers alone. In general, we're quick to point out that benchmarks don't tell the whole story, but in this case, the numbers just aren't consistent. Its score of 1,635 in Quadrant bests other Tegra 2-packing tablets such as the Toshiba Thrive and the Galaxy Tab 10.1, which notched scores of 1,584 and 1,546, respectively. On the other hand, its score of 948 in Vellamo, the mobile browsing test, was lower than what we've seen, while its Linpack and Nenamark results were either impressive or lackluster, depending on the comparison. Meanwhile, it took a full minute to cold boot -- something that takes other Tegra 2 tabs such as the Thrive and 10.1 about 20 seconds (Lenovo says this normal, and not an aberration on the part of our test unit). However you parse these motley numbers, what we do know is that thanks to the unresponsive display and wonky accelorometer alone, the experience just isn't as smooth as what you'll enjoy on other slates. Battery Life
The ThinkPad tablet packs a 3,250mAh battery promising up to 8.7 hours of juice on WiFi. Indeed, it lasted eight hours on the mark in our battery test (movie looping, WiFi on) before powering down. That's on the lower end of average for a 10-incher, if you look at our chart above, though it's at least a good hour and a half longer than the Toshiba Thrive. Particularly given that the Xoom, K1 and TouchPad all beat it by about half an hour or less, the ThinkPad Tablet's runtime seems respectable, though not great. Also! The ThinkPad Tablet charges via USB. Once we realized we could charge using a spare USB 2.0 port on our laptop, that immediately rose to become one of our singular favorite features about the tablet. The best part is that you can do it with a regular 'ole micro-USB cable, unlike the Galaxy Tab 10.1, which requires a proprietary cable to charge via USB. Software The software experience on the ThinkPad Tablet is exactly the same as on the IdeaPad K1 -- meaning, it's Android 3.1 with mild skinning and a not-so-modest collection of widgets. For starters, Lenovo took the back, home and open windows buttons in the lower left corner of the screen and painted them an opaque white. The effect is somewhat cartoonish but more importantly, it clashes with the stock Honeycomb clock in the lower right corner, which still glows blue. We still say it's not something that needed fixing, but at least all of the other software tweaks you'll see here are reversible. Also, for what it's worth, Lenovo tweaked that row of icons so that in addition to being able to tap to see what apps you have open, you can hit an "X" mark to close them. If most of the software tweaks you'll see here are gimmicks, this built-in task killer, at least, is one we think even seasoned Honeycomb users have to appreciate. From here on out, it's widgets, widgets, widgets. Namely, the huge one taking up a good swath of the main home screen. This guy, dubbed Lenovo Launch Zone, has four so-called zones, better described as customizable shortcuts. By default, these zones include ones for watching, reading, listening and checking email, and there's also a browser shortcut tucked there, too. From this widget, you can also jump to system settings, along with another settings menu governing the zones themselves. Here, you can change the color scheme of the widget, as well as change the shortcuts. In the case of "Read" and those other task-oriented ones, it means changing what app is tied to it, so you don't have to go straight into Amazon Kindle if you don't want to. Want some more shortcuts with your shortcuts? Well, there's also a carousel of six favorites at the bottom of the screen (this would be the icon that looks like a talk bubble). Once you open the carousel, it'll pop up in the low right corner of the screen. These, too, are easy to customize -- just tap the settings icon to start dragging and dropping your favorite apps into the list. To be honest, we prefer this to Launch Zone, just because it's less obtrusive. It's only in the way when we're actively scrolling through favorites. When we're not, it's nothing more than an icon at the button of the screen. As it is, you'll be greeted by both when you turn on the tablet for the first time. It's a cluttered setup, to be sure, and we're less forgiving of it now that we're reviewing the ThinkPad Tablet -- a slate for bona fide techies. Anyone buying this knows his or her way around Honeycomb, and will likely find this kind of hand-holding patronizing, unnecessary. It doesn't work here, even though we can see why Lenovo decided to slap it on the K1, a tablet that's decidedly more consumery. In any case, if you're as annoyed as we are, you can just drag and drop the whole launcher into the trash bin and call it a day. Moving along, Lenovo also included its SocialTouch app, which aggregates friends' Facebook and Twitter updates, along with your email and calendar appointments. It's a neat idea in theory, except that there's no way to jump from day to day, so it's essentially like reading your emails and meeting reminders in the form of a Twitter timeline. Expect the important stuff to get lost in the morass. Apps Like the K1 before it, the ThinkPad Tablet comes with a boatload of apps pre-installed -- a list that includes Absolute, AccuWeather, Amazon Kindle, Angry Birds HD, ArcSync (along with 2GB of free storage), Docs to Go, the IM client eBuddy, five card games, a 30-day trial of McAfee Security, Movie Studio, Netflix, ooVoo, Places, PokeTalk, PrinterShare and. Sound Recorder. As a treat for the beleaguered IT guy, Lenovo also threw in Citrix Receiver, allowing users to access virtualized desktops and company-required apps. Meanwhile, Lenovo's own Mobility Manager app gives the IT department a fair amount of control, letting it remotely wipe the data, set up data encryption change the password and monitor failed log-in attempts. On top of all that, Lenovo included its own "USB File Copy" app for trading files among the internal flash storage, an external memory card or a PC or hard drive connected via USB. That file manager is welcome, and worked just fine to copy a movie from our SD card to the tablet's internal memory. Intuitively, it'll launch automatically when you insert a SB drive or SD card, or when you connect the keyboard folio case (more on that later), which saves you the trouble of digging through the app menu to open it. In addition to the apps it bundled and the troves you'll find in Android Market, Lenovo's also pushing its own storefront, dubbed Lenovo App Shop. The selection hasn't gotten much beefier since we reviewed the K1 almost two months ago but more importantly, there's nothing here that you can't also find in Android Market. For low-tech users considering the K1, perhaps, that kind of curated experience could be a relief. But again, anyone considering pulling the trigger on a ThinkPad Tablet can navigate Android Market just fine, and probably know what they're looking for anyway. Still, IT managers can customize the store so that it only shows corporate-approved apps, so companies, at least, might appreciate a curated experience, even if end users don't. Configuration options and accessories For the purposes of this review, we checked out the $569 32GB model, though you can also opt for a 16GB version ($499) or a 64GB number ($699). Lenovo's also selling a $60 dock with USB 2.0, micro-USB, HDMI, headphone and line-out ports, along with that $30 pen we've been using to practice our cursive. If you've been following along, though, you know the most intriguing add-on of them all is the $100 keyboard folio case. It is what it sounds like, folks, and it's awesome. What you have is a fold-out case with a built-in, USB-powered keyboard. What can we say? The keys are just delicious to type on, and really do evoke the experience of tying on a ThinkPad (a ThinkPad Edge with a chiclet keyboard, perhaps, but a ThinkPad just the same). There's also a red optical trackpad in the center designed to take the place of Lenovo's signature nub, and it, too, is a pleasure to use. That feature alone transformed the way we interacted with the tablet; particularly since it's so reliable and comfortable to use, it's worlds better than combining some third-party keyboard with a standalone mouse. It wasn't until we wanted to scroll down through webpages that the spell broke slightly, as we needed to take our finger off the trackpad and either use the down arrow key or reach up and touch the screen. One last note before we stop gushing: as far as cases go, this one's notably well made. It has three incline settings, and we love how the tablet locks into each with a satisfying click (ditto for the way you can fold the case's latch underneath itself so that it doesn't flop around in front of the screen). In a smart move, Lenovo left the ports exposed so that you can charge the tablet without removing it from the folio (the door covering the SD slot will be obscured, though). It's ironic, really, what's going on here: Lenovo managed to craft a nearly perfect accessory for a decidedly imperfect tablet. It just goes to show that Lenovo's at its best when it makes traditional computers -- or, at least, things that make for a computer-like experience. Whether you get the ThinkPad Tablet is a question you'll have to answer for yourself, but if you do, we highly recommend ponying up for the case -- it'll add value in a way the pen doesn't necessarily. As for that SIM slot next to the SD card reader, Lenovo has yet to announce a subsidized version here in the states, though it assures us it'll be announced next month for AT&T, Verizon and Sprint. At some later date, you'll also be able to buy a 3G-ready version with a Gobi radio and roll with whatever SIM cards you already happen to have. If you buy today, though, yours most certainly won't have that inside, even though the SIM card slot will still be there, hanging out next to the SD reader. The competitionIf you've been feeling tempted by the ThinkPad Tablet, we'd assume at least one of the following two things about you: one, you're a ThinkPad fanboy (or maybe even a fangirl). Secondly, you're digging that full-sized USB port, SD slot and 1080p output. Further, we're going to assume you don't want an iPad 2 or even a Galaxy Tab 10.1. Why? Because they've been out for ages and you would have pulled the trigger by now if it were really right for you. We're also betting you're aware of the various Win 7 slates on the market, and already decided to pass. Oh, and one more point: if having full-sized ports weren't so appealing, you might well have opted for a thinner, lighter tablet with longer battery life. With us so far? Alright. And if it's those full-sized ports you're really after, you've once again got precious few options. There is, of course, the Transformer, which lacks the SD card slot (and the obnoxious software load). Of course, it too, has the keyboard thing covered, thanks to a dock that does triple duty, extending battery life by seven hours and adding an SD slot and two USB 2.0 sockets. Oh, and the 16GB tablet costs just $399, meaning even with the dock ($150 MSRP; $120 on Amazon) it costs little more than the bare-bones ThinkPad Tablet. All things considered, then, we'd rather have a Transformer, though we'd still recommend the ThinkPad Tablet to folks who see the pen as non-negotiable. There's also the Toshiba Thrive, which is aggressively priced with a starting price of $429 (that's the 8GB version). It, too, has a full-sized USB port and SD slot, though it does the ThinkPad Tablet one better by adding a full-sized HDMI socket. It's even decently fast and has a more responsive screen than the ThinkPad Tablet, which makes the choice not-so clear-cut. Then again, the ThinkPad Tablet offers superior build quality and almost two extra hours of runtime. It's a tough call, though for what it's worth, we'd sooner pick the Transformer over the Thrive, too. Lastly, let's not forget about the Acer Iconia Tab A500, which also packs a USB port, but not a full-sized SD slot. It's arguably sleeker than the ThinkPad Tablet, but it's hardly pinch-thin, and its battery life is lackluster. This wouldn't be our first choice either. Wrap-up Back when we reviewed the IdeaPad K1, we came away feeling disappointed. Our verdict, in a sentence, was that the tablet was okay, but we'd rather see what the geekier, more fully featured ThinkPad Tablet had to offer. If anything, though, reviewing it brought on a serious case of déjà vu. Again, we were confronted with a not-so-responsive display, sluggish performance and the same hit-or-miss software tweaks. After testing Lenovo's first two Android tablets, it seems clear that the problem isn't a saturated market, where decent Honeycomb slates can go unappreciated. No, the problem is that right now, at least, Lenovo just doesn't make tablets with the same panache that it does computers. That's not to say the ThinkPad Tablet is a failure. It lasts through eight hours of video playback, offers full-sized ports, packs a high-quality IPS display and supports pen input (however imperfect the experience actually is) -- all while paying homage to the ThinkPad line's storied design. It also offers lots of options for IT managers and is offered with a pitch-perfect keyboard case -- two ways in which the tablet makes good use of Lenovo's ThinkPad know-how. Particularly if you've been looking for something with a stylus, it's tough to argue with it, as the flawed writing experience still beats having none at all. And we can see where businesses might be willing to overlook the ho-hum performance in favor of those remote control features. But if it's just the SD slot and USB port you're after, you could easily get the ASUS Eee Pad Transformer and dock and spend about $50 less than you would on the ThinkPad Tablet-plus-keyboard-case combo. And if you don't even care about the ports, well, there's not enough reason to plunk your hard-earned greenbacks down on something this poky. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Google to build a trio of data centers in Asia, earmarks $200 million for expansion Posted: 29 Sep 2011 08:35 AM PDT  | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| T-Mobile joins Verizon to support Samsung in Apple patent lawsuit Posted: 29 Sep 2011 08:02 AM PDT  | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Sony to stop paying for movie theater 3D glasses, theater owners fire back Posted: 29 Sep 2011 07:41 AM PDT  As if going to the movies wasn't getting expensive enough, now theater owners and studios are fighting over the cost of 3D glasses -- again. Sony Pictures sent out a letter indicating that starting in May 2012, it won't foot the bill for moviegoer's 3D glasses anymore, pushing the charge onto the theater instead. The Hollywood Reporter uncovered the letter and indicates the total pricetag for a major movie like the ones Sony has planned for next summer -- Men in Black III and The Amazing Spider-Man -- can run as high as $5 to $10 million in total. Studios have been covering the cost to help push 3D so far but Sony's declaration could lead to other studios following, and changing to a model where moviegoers buy and keep their own 3D glasses. It'd be nice to think keeper pairs could reduce the surcharge -- or for 3D haters, switch more showings to 2D -- but with a half-full box of candy apparently worth its weight in gold, we're not optimistic. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Skype 2.5 for Android brings video calls to 14 new devices, including Honeycomb tablets Posted: 29 Sep 2011 07:18 AM PDT  Oh, sorry, we're talking about Android devices here. Specifically ones that support video calling over Skype. With the update to version 2.5, the VoIP service has tacked on another 14 Goog-powered gadgets to its list of officially supported handsets and tablets. Yes, that's right, we said tablets. In addition to bringing support to phones like the Atrix, Bionic and Nexus One, Skype is inviting the Xoom, the Galaxy Tab 10.1 and Acer's Iconia to the party. We've even received reports that video calls are working on other Honeycomb slates like the ASUS Transformer. You'll find the full list of officially supported devices in the PR after the break. Skype 2.5 for Android adds more supported handsets and enhanced video experience Today we are pleased to announce that with Skype 2.5 for Android, we are whitelisting video support for an additional 14 Android devices. This brings the total number of white listed devices for video calling to an exciting 41. Now Skype video calling will also be available by default on several Motorola Devices including the Atrix 2.5 or Xoom 2.5. Download the updated Skype for Android app from the Android Market or Skype.com/m using your Android phone's browser or just scan the QR code below. With Skype 2.5 for Android, the list of Android devices we've added Skype video support for include: Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 HTC Nexus One HTC Shooter Sony Ericsson Xperia Live with Walkman Sony Ericsson Xperia neo V LG Optimus Black LG Optimus 3D LG Optimus 2x Motorola Photon Motorola Droid 3 Motorola Bionic Motorola Xoom Motorola Atrix Acer Iconia For a full list of supported devices for video calling, please visit Android Market. The Skype 2.5 for Android update also brings you further video enhancements. You can now switch between portrait and landscape mode during video calls, and zoom in with a simple double tap on the screen. We also improved support for bluetooth headsets and included a number of bug fixes and performance enhancements, which should further boost the user experience of Skype for Android on your phone. In addition, as with our recent Mac and iOS update, there will be an advertising platform introduced in this new release. Advertising will not be shown to users that have Skype Credit, a Calling or Skype Premium subscription. If you have any questions or want to leave feedback, please take advantage of the new Skype Support. We hope you enjoy the update! | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Sharp's Aquos Phone 102SH brings 3D qHD display, 12 megapixel CMOS sensor to Japan Posted: 29 Sep 2011 06:55 AM PDT  Just a few days after unveiling the waterproof IS13SH, Sharp has come out with yet another beastly submersible, known as the Aquos Phone 102SH. Juiced by a 1GHz TI OMAP 4430 CPU, this Gingerbread-coated handset boasts a 4.5-inch glasses-free 3D display with 720 x 1280 resolution, along with 1GB of RAM and a 32GB microSDHC card. The device also packs a 12 megapixel CMOS sensor and supports DLNA, infrared connections, e-wallet functionality and your standard 802.11 b/g/n and Bluetooth 3.0 capabilities. No word yet on price, but Japanese carrier SoftBank will begin selling the 102SH in early December. Scurry past the break for more information in the full and translated PR. AQUOS PHONE SoftBank 102SH (by Sharp) Overview 1. Main features (planned) Display beautifully detailed, with a 4.5-inch LCD high-definition large-screen HD The display, with a 4.5 inches HD LCD high-definition big screen. Color gradients or licking a resolution of 1,280 × 720 dots (color display 16.77 million) in the corresponding pictures and videos, and vivid the detail and character, to read comfortably and small characters in the website the more information possible. Also, to realize to adjust the contrast display for easy viewing even outdoors in bright places such as "outdoor view" and the effect of preventing prying eyes up "color veil view", and ability to view 3D. Furthermore, 9.7mm thinness about forma yet slim body, IPX5/IPX7 an equivalent waterproof performance and Ip5X 2 dustproof performance has been considerable. Up to 21Mbps downstream 3 The "ULTRA SPEED" corresponds to a dual-core CPU with To achieve maximum 21Mbps downstream "ULTRA SPEED" in response to high-speed communication is possible. In addition, dual-core CPU with a faster performance "OMAP4430 (1GHz)" by built-in, a large amount of web browsing and watching streaming video information, including operations such as running multiple applications at the same time, a variety of actions comfortably done without stress. Battery consumption is simply smart technology "eco" function Power saving and backlight control and image processing technology to keep the image quality is always high, power consumption by automatically controlling the unconscious more than one application at startup, you can extend your battery has. "Eco Tech" feature allows up to approximately 50% of power consumed by the backlight 4 reduction, approximately 40% more power consumption during standby (mode waza-ari) five energy savings may be reduced. With 12.10 megapixel camera that supports the optical Image Stabilizer, the main camera is equipped with a megapixel camera effective pixel count of approximately 1,210. Because it uses an optical anti-shake that can be taken easily prone to camera shake scene, you can take in situations such as for taking beautiful photography and zoom in at night. In addition, the Full HD (1,920 × 1,080 pixels) and can also shoot video, it is possible to record the scenes footage of powerful memories. Note: 1 IPX5 and uses a 6.3mm diameter water injection nozzles, jets from any direction can rely on the condition that a minimum of irrigation water for 3 minutes 12.5 minutes liters / about 3m away about the functions of a phone means that you have. IPX7 and the tap water at room temperature, the phone gently sunk away and still water depth of 1m, which means having a function as a phone when taken out after about 30 minutes left. 2 IP5X and refers to the degree of protection, less than 75μm in diameter dust (dust) were stirred for 8 hours to put the device containing the phone has a function of the phone when taken to maintain safe means. Dust the performance of this unit is warranted to protect the substantial degree IP5X, do not guarantee against such usage is not placed directly on the beach. 3 available in some areas, the maximum transmission rate is different. Also, for a best effort, due to line congestion and communication environment, communication slows down, or may be unable to communicate. 4 provisional value. Numbers will be different depending on the model. 5 Numeric Eco Tech "normal" mode "with skill" is by comparison with the preliminary mode. Your environment by energy savings may vary. Release Date Since early December, 2011 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Sprint set to end Bill to Account program on October 5th, all equipment must be purchased outright Posted: 29 Sep 2011 06:31 AM PDT  Sprint's the last of the big four national carriers to offer a Bill to Account program, which allows equipment purchases to be billed directly to the customer's account (provided they're in good standing). Unfortunately, it's likely going to be the next consumer-friendly policy to get the boot out the door, never to be seen again. According to the SprintFeed screenshot, Sprint appears to be concerned that too many people are taking advantage of the service by terminating their plans before the equipment's actually paid off. We're uncertain of how much money this practice was costing the company, but the Now Network is looking to shave dollars off its expenditures any way it can before the inevitable LTE launch comes around. Farewell, Bill to Account -- we hope you come visit us again sometime. Update: We've been hearing from our readers that Verizon still has a Bill to Account option. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ASUS announces Ivy Bridge PCI-Express motherboards, for early early-adopters Posted: 29 Sep 2011 06:08 AM PDT  If you get your jollies from things like procuring motherboards months before compatible chips are released, then boy have we some good news for you! ASUS is releasing three PCI-Express 3.0 enabled motherboards that are capable of handling Intel's souped-up Ivy Bridge chips when they debut next year. The company isn't in the business of giving its boards romantic names, so the three Z68-powered arrivals will be called P8Z68-Deluxe/GEN3, P8Z68-V Pro/GEN3 and P8Z68-V/GEN3. The whole lot will get two PCI-Express 3.0 slots, LucidLogix's Vertu Universal MVP graphics-switching and USB 3.0. They'll be available from October -- the Deluxe model will peel €230 ($310) from the rear of your pocket, while the V-pro commands a more modest €185 ($250) and the V an even lower €160 ($220). After the break, we've got a shot of the German spec list that those nice folks at TechConnect managed to snaffle. Go on, geek out -- we won't tell. [Thanks, Alexandre]  | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| LaCie's LaPlug turns your USB HDD into a network storage device, for LaPrice of $75 (video) Posted: 29 Sep 2011 05:45 AM PDT  LaCie has always taken an understated approach to its lineup of boxy network storage devices, and the LaPlug is no different. With this little guy sitting in your living room, you can wirelessly share and access data across your home network, while streaming USB drive-stored multimedia content to any UPnP/DLNA-certified devices, including the PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 or any compatible smartphones and tablets. With a quartet of USB 2.0 ports, along with gigabit ethernet and WiFi b/g/n capabilities, the LaPlug also allows you to back up your files in a centralized and remotely accessible location. You can grab one now for $75 at the source link below, or breeze past the break for more details in the full PR and accompanying video. Share Data Wirelessly with LaPlug by LaCie Today LaCie announced the LaPlug, a simple solution to share any USB hard drive or key over a local network. The LaPlug also offers a convenient way to access data, at home or on the go, as well as share personal files such as vacation or birthday photos with family and friends. Additionally, the LaPlug can stream multimedia content and back up multiple computers to one central location. Even better, all this functionality can be achieved with USB hard drives a user already owns. SHARE USB DISKS ON YOUR NETWORK-WIRELESSLY The LaPlug turns any USB hard drive into a network storage device, sharing files wirelessly throughout the home. Simply connect the LaPlug to the network then connect the drive to the LaPlug. Instantly the user has an easy and cost-effective way to make files stored on their USB hard drives more accessible than ever. For ultimate convenience a user can connect a USB printer to the LaPlug and make it wirelessly available to all computers on the network. ACCESSIBILITY AT HOME AND ON THE ROAD Not only does the LaPlug make USB hard drives accessible throughout the home, it even supports remote access. Instead of emailing large files between friends, just give them access to the LaPlug – all they need is an Internet connection. The user can even set up a custom web address, so access to the LaPlug is as easy as typing a URL. MULTIMEDIA STREAMING It is easy to access USB drives connected to the LaPlug from any networked equipment that's UPnP™/DLNA®-certified, such as the PlayStation®3 or Xbox®360, as well as the LaCie LaCinema Classic HD. If a user has movies on a USB key they can just connect it to the LaPlug then play the movie using the multimedia device on the network. Instantly watch movies from the comfort of your living room even if the LaPlug is located in another part of the house. The LaPlug also plays music files from a USB drive or streams music to computers on the network running iTunes®. CENTRALIZE BACKUP FOR CONVENIENCE AND SECURITY The LaPlug offers a convenient way to automatically back up all computers in a household onto one central location. Use the included backup software or Time Machine®. Either way, simply configure automatic backups once then rest assured knowing all data is secure. Since the LaPlug supports Wi-Fi, once the computer is configured the user does not need to connect it to the LaPlug in order to initiate backups. It works as soon as the computer is connected to the local network. AVAILABILITY The LaCie LaPlug will be available through the LaCie Online Store, LaCie PROgram+ Partners and LaCie PROgram+ Resellers starting at the suggested retail price of $74.99 (VAT included). For more information, visit www.lacie.com. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| HTC Sensation Z710t becomes first smartphone to offer ST-Ericsson's NovaThor SoC Posted: 29 Sep 2011 05:22 AM PDT  Powerful New ST-Ericsson Platform makes Debut in HTC Sensation Z710t China Mobile's latest TD smartphone based on state-of-the-art NovaThor™ platform Geneva, September 26, 2011 - China Mobile and HTC have launched the first smartphone to be based on ST-Ericsson's powerful new NovaThor platform. The Sensation Z710t offers consumers immersive 3D graphics, fast web browsing, high-definition multimedia and the ability to run several advanced Android applications simultaneously with exceptional performance and battery life. Underneath the hood of the HTC Sensation Z710t are ST-Ericsson's Nova™ A9500 dual-core application processor, running at 1GHz, and ST-Ericsson's Thor™ M6718 modem, which can connect to China Mobile's extensive TD-SCDMA network, enabling consumers to get online at broadband speeds across much of China. The HTC Sensation Z710t also sports an eight megapixel camera and a 4.3 inch display. "ST-Ericsson's new NovaThor platform has enabled us to develop a world-class Android smartphone for China Mobile's TD network," said Matthew Costello, Chief Operating Officer of HTC. "Consumers are going to be captivated by the fast and responsive multimedia experience delivered by the HTC Sensation Z710t." "The launch of this exceptional HTC smartphone highlights both the capabilities of our NovaThor platform family and our wholehearted support for China Mobile's drive to bring world-leading smartphones onto its TD network," said Pascal Langlois, senior vice president, chief sales and marketing officer of ST-Ericsson. "Consumers and Android application developers alike will relish the raw power and 3D graphical capabilities of the HTC Sensation Z710t." | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Life of George melds Lego bricks with iOS for 'digital-to-physical' gameplay, captures our hearts Posted: 29 Sep 2011 05:00 AM PDT  There isn't much that can't be done with some Mindstorming and plenty of Legos, so color us intrigued by the Lego Group's new game, Life of George. Using a free EyeCue-enabled iOS app, players are tasked with recreating George's photographs using 144 included Lego bricks on a specialized "green screen-like" gaming mat. Once the model is complete, you'll take a photo with your iDevice to be scored based on your building speed and accuracy to the original picture. The $30 kit promises 12 levels featuring 10 photos each, and varying difficulty levels. For added replay value, there's a two player game and a creation mode which lets you create playable models out of your own snapshots. To sweeten this story even more, you'll also be able to keep up with George at his eponymously titled Facebook page, I am George. If the Lego-builder inside of you is itching to snag one, it'll be available from Lego on October 1st. In the meantime, you'll find more details in the PR after the break. LEGO GROUP UNVEILS FIRST FULLY INTEGRATED DIGITAL-TO-PHYSICAL GAMING EXPERIENCE - Combining physical building with a digital gaming application, LEGO® Life of George invites builders to test building skills in a race against time- BILLUND, Denmark, September 29, 2011 – The LEGO Group today announced LEGO® Life of George, its first product to combine digital and physical play for a hands-on LEGO gaming experience. Featuring patent-pending brick recognition software, powered by EyeCue, the game challenges players to build models, and place them on a play mat that acts as a "green screen" to capture the image and receive a score based on accuracy and speed. Beginning October 1, 2011, players can purchase the LEGO Life of George set for $29.99 from LEGO Stores and shop.lego.com and download the free Apple iOS compatible gaming application. LEGO Life of George is a 12-level game that can be played in novice or expert mode. Each level showcases an adventure from George, around whom the game revolves, and is comprised of models of varying difficulty based on the number of bricks needed and the building techniques required to replicate them. Builders are challenged to physically recreate the virtual models from George's photo album using the LEGO bricks included with the game; once they have successfully completed all 10 models the next level will be unlocked. In addition to Game Mode which can be played alone or against one competitor in a pass-and-play format, a Creation Mode called "My Life" enables users to design and capture their own models in the app's virtual scrapbook. "We understand consumers' powerful connection to casual gaming, and we have seen how successfully the LEGO brand can translate to a virtual experience, so we pursued development of a fun way to combine both physical and virtual play into one product," says Paal Smith-Meyer, head of new business at LEGO Group. "Life of George is a result of our desire to provide an innovative way for existing and new fans to play with LEGO bricks and interact with the brand." Who is George? George is a software engineer by day and adventurer by night. His main hobbies are travel, photography and numbers, and has a fun storyline for players to follow and engage with via his Facebook page, I Am George. Fans can expect to see updates and photography from George on his travels as well as hints to new game levels and app updates through his posts. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Huawei Honor gets video run-through, manages to hold the mobile court's attention Posted: 29 Sep 2011 04:36 AM PDT Sure, it may not grab headlines like a new iPhone or Google phone but that's not to say we're utterly uninterested in seeing a bit more of Huawei's forthcoming top-drawer handset. Now confirmed to play friendly with US radio frequencies, the single-core 1.4GHz Honor has been given a full video run-through. Techblog posits a December launch and a €300 ($400) price-tag -- not exactly the bargain basement prices we've come to expect from Huawei, but with a 4-inch touchscreen, DLNA abilities, an 8 megapixel camera on the back and a substantial 1900mAh battery, it looks like you'll get what you pay for. Catch the video after the break to judge for yourself. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| The Nokia contraction continues: 3,500 further job losses and more on the horizon Posted: 29 Sep 2011 03:42 AM PDT  [Thanks to everyone who sent this in] Nokia continues to align its workforce and operations Next phase of changes to improve efficiencies in manufacturing, Location & Commerce, and supporting functions Nokia Corporation Stock exchange release September 29, 2011 at 10.00 (CET+1) Espoo, Finland - Nokia today announced plans to take additional actions to align its workforce and operations. The measures support both the execution of the company's strategy and the savings target the company announced earlier this year, and also target to bring efficiencies and speed to the organization. Earlier this year, Nokia announced changes primarily focused on aligning its R&D operations in Smart Devices and Mobile Phones. Today, the company announced the next phase of operational alignment, which includes plans for reductions in manufacturing, the Location & Commerce business, and supporting functions. Nokia plans to adjust its manufacturing capacity and renew its manufacturing operations to better serve its global network of customers, partners and suppliers in the following manner: - Focus its feature phone manufacturing on those locations with optimal proximity to suppliers and key markets. As a result, Nokia plans to close its manufacturing facility in Cluj, Romania by the end of 2011, as Nokia's high-volume Asian factories provide greater scale and proximity benefits. - Review the long-term role of its manufacturing operations in Salo, Finland, Komarom, Hungary, and Reynosa, Mexico. These factories are expected to continue to play a key role in serving European and North American smartphone customers, but the plan is to gradually shift their focus to customer and market-specific software and sales package customization. It is estimated this would have an impact on the number of personnel in 2012, with no impact in 2011. Nokia will engage in discussions with employee representatives and stakeholders in these sites, and expects to have more visibility into the possible headcount impacts in the first quarter of 2012. Nokia previously announced its plans to create a Location & Commerce business consolidating location assets including NAVTEQ and Nokia's social location services operations. As part of consolidating this business, Nokia has identified potential synergies and opportunities to increase effectiveness through automation. Location & Commerce is responsible for driving the delivery of the world's best digital mapping content, location platform and social-location experiences. Nokia plans to concentrate its Location & Commerce development efforts in Berlin, Boston, Chicago and other supporting sites, and plans to close its operations in Bonn, Germany and Malvern, US. Nokia is also starting consultations with employees in Sales, Marketing and Corporate Functions, in line with Nokia's earlier announcement on April 27, 2011. "We are seeing solid progress against our strategy, and with these planned changes we will emerge as a more dynamic, nimble and efficient challenger," said Stephen Elop, Nokia President and CEO. "We must take painful, yet necessary, steps to align our workforce and operations with our path forward." "Europe is core to Nokia's future. In addition to our headquarters, we have a strong R&D presence in Europe. We have four major R&D sites in Finland and two major R&D sites in Germany, as well as Nokia Research Centers and other supporting R&D sites in Europe. Nokia also retains a strong local presence in our many sales offices throughout this region, as well as our operations in Salo and Komarom," said Elop. The planned closure of the Cluj factory combined with adjustments to supply chain operations is estimated to impact approximately 2,200 employees. The planned changes in the Location & Commerce business are estimated to impact approximately 1,300 employees. These personnel reductions are in addition to the measures announced in April and are expected to take effect by the end of 2012. In line with the company values, Nokia will offer employees affected by the planned reductions a comprehensive support program. Nokia remains committed to supporting its employees and the local communities through this difficult change. About Nokia Nokia is committed to connecting people to what matters to them by combining advanced mobile technology with personalized services. More than 1.3 billion people connect to one another with a Nokia, from our most affordable voice-optimized mobile phones to advanced Internet-connected smartphones sold in virtually every market in the world. Through our services, people also enjoy access to maps and navigation on mobile, a rapidly expanding applications store, a growing catalog of digital music, and more. Nokia's NAVTEQ is a leader in comprehensive digital mapping and navigation services, and Nokia Siemens Networks is one of the leading providers of telecommunications infrastructure hardware, software and professional services globally. FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS It should be noted that certain statements herein which are not historical facts are forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, those regarding: A) the expected plans and benefits of our strategic partnership with Microsoft to combine complementary assets and expertise to form a global mobile ecosystem and to adopt Windows Phone as our primary smartphone platform; B) the timing and expected benefits of our new strategy, including expected operational and financial benefits and targets as well as changes in leadership and operational structure; C) the timing of the deliveries of our products and services; D) our ability to innovate, develop, execute and commercialize new technologies, products and services; E) expectations regarding market developments and structural changes; F) expectations and targets regarding our industry volumes, market share, prices, net sales and margins of products and services; G) expectations and targets regarding our operational priorities and results of operations; H) expectations and targets regarding collaboration and partnering arrangements; I) the outcome of pending and threatened litigation; J) expectations regarding the successful completion of acquisitions or restructurings on a timely basis and our ability to achieve the financial and operational targets set in connection with any such acquisition or restructuring; and K) statements preceded by "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "foresee," "target," "estimate," "designed," "plans," "will" or similar expressions. These statements are based on management's best assumptions and beliefs in light of the information currently available to it. Because they involve risks and uncertainties, actual results may differ materially from the results that we currently expect. Factors that could cause these differences include, but are not limited to: 1) our ability to succeed in creating a competitive smartphone platform for high-quality differentiated winning smartphones or in creating new sources of revenue through our partnership with Microsoft; 2) the expected timing of the planned transition to Windows Phone as our primary smartphone platform and the introduction of mobile products based on that platform; 3) our ability to maintain the viability of our current Symbian smartphone platform during the transition to Windows Phone as our primary smartphone platform; 4) our ability to realize a return on our investment in MeeGo and next generation devices, platforms and user experiences; 5) our ability to build a competitive and profitable global ecosystem of sufficient scale, attractiveness and value to all participants and to bring winning smartphones to the market in a timely manner; 6) our ability to produce mobile phones in a timely and cost efficient manner with differentiated hardware, localized services and applications; 7) our ability to increase our speed of innovation, product development and execution to bring new competitive smartphones and mobile phones to the market in a timely manner; 8) our ability to retain, motivate, develop and recruit appropriately skilled employees; 9) our ability to implement our strategies, particularly our new mobile product strategy; 10) the intensity of competition in the various markets where we do business and our ability to maintain or improve our market position or respond successfully to changes in the competitive environment; 11) our ability to maintain and leverage our traditional strengths in the mobile product market if we are unable to retain the loyalty of our mobile operator and distributor customers and consumers as a result of the implementation of our new strategy or other factors; 12) our success in collaboration and partnering arrangements with third parties, including Microsoft; 13) the success, financial condition and performance of our suppliers, collaboration partners and customers; 14) our ability to source sufficient quantities of fully functional quality components, subassemblies and software on a timely basis without interruption and on favorable terms, including the disruption of production and/or deliveries from any of our suppliers as a result of adverse conditions in the geographic areas where they are located; 15) our ability to manage efficiently our manufacturing, service creation, delivery and logistics without interruption; 16) our ability to ensure the timely delivery of sufficient volumes of products that meet our and our customers' and consumers' requirements and manage our inventory and timely adapt our supply to meet changing demands for our products; 17) any actual or even alleged defects or other quality, safety and security issues in our products; 18) any actual or alleged loss, improper disclosure or leakage of any personal or consumer data collected or made available to us or stored in or through our products; 19) our ability to successfully manage costs, including our ability to achieve targeted costs reductions and to effectively and timely execute related restructuring measures, including personnel reductions; 20) our ability to effectively and smoothly implement the new operational structure for our businesses; 21) the development of the mobile and fixed communications industry and general economic conditions globally and regionally; 22) exchange rate fluctuations, including, in particular, fluctuations between the euro, which is our reporting currency, and the US dollar, the Japanese yen and the Chinese yuan, as well as certain other currencies; 23) our ability to protect the technologies, which we or others develop or that we license, from claims that we have infringed third parties' intellectual property rights, as well as our unrestricted use on commercially acceptable terms of certain technologies in our products and services; 24) our ability to protect numerous Nokia, NAVTEQ and Nokia Siemens Networks patented, standardized or proprietary technologies from third-party infringement or actions to invalidate the intellectual property rights of these technologies; 25) the impact of changes in government policies, trade policies, laws or regulations and economic or political turmoil in countries where our assets are located and we do business; 26) any disruption to information technology systems and networks that our operations rely on; 27) unfavorable outcome of litigations; 28) allegations of possible health risks from electromagnetic fields generated by base stations and mobile products and lawsuits related to them, regardless of merit; 29) our ability to achieve targeted costs reductions and increase profitability in Nokia Siemens Networks and to effectively and timely execute related restructuring measures; 30) Nokia Siemens Networks' ability to maintain or improve its market position or respond successfully to changes in the competitive environment; 31) Nokia Siemens Networks' liquidity and its ability to meet its working capital requirements; 32) whether Nokia Siemens Networks is able to successfully integrate the acquired assets of Motorola Solutions' networks business, retain existing customers of the acquired business, cross-sell Nokia Siemens Networks' products and services to customers of the acquired business and otherwise realize the expected synergies and benefits of the acquisition; 33) Nokia Siemens Networks' ability to timely introduce new products, services, upgrades and technologies; 34) Nokia Siemens Networks' success in the telecommunications infrastructure services market and Nokia Siemens Networks' ability to effectively and profitably adapt its business and operations in a timely manner to the increasingly diverse service needs of its customers; 35) developments under large, multi-year contracts or in relation to major customers in the networks infrastructure and related services business; 36) the management of our customer financing exposure, particularly in the networks infrastructure and related services business; 37) whether ongoing or any additional governmental investigations into alleged violations of law by some former employees of Siemens AG may involve and affect the carrier-related assets and employees transferred by Siemens AG to Nokia Siemens Networks; 38) any impairment of Nokia Siemens Networks customer relationships resulting from ongoing or any additional governmental investigations involving the Siemens carrier-related operations transferred to Nokia Siemens Networks; as well as the risk factors specified on pages 12-39 of Nokia's annual report Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2010 under Item 3D. "Risk Factors." Other unknown or unpredictable factors or underlying assumptions subsequently proving to be incorrect could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Nokia does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except to the extent legally required. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Long live the Samsung Taylor: prototype device to receive Mango? Posted: 29 Sep 2011 02:45 AM PDT  Keep looking at Microsoft's "where's my Windows Phone update" page, concerned that Mango may never make it to your WP7 device? You may be comforted to hear that even the Samsung Taylor -- the beta device awarded to devs last summer that got left in the dark when NoDo came around -- is reportedly receiving the refresh to Windows Phone 7.5, inferring that the range of devices covered by the annual overhaul is pretty wide. It hasn't been made official, but the above screenshot was posted on the Facebook Wall of a Microsoft employee (which has since been taken down), offering a solid indication that the idea isn't too far-fetched. If you're one of the lucky few to have the prototype handset in your possession, be on the lookout and keep us apprised if Mango comes knocking on your door. Everyone else should feel at ease knowing that if the Taylor can get it, it's likely that every other Windows Phone can too. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| India's $35 tablet said to ship in October, do dreams really come true? Posted: 29 Sep 2011 01:58 AM PDT  [Thanks, nithin] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| HTC Explorer now official, we go hands-on (updated) Posted: 29 Sep 2011 01:00 AM PDT  Update: The UK's Three network has confirmed it will stock the device, but it hasn't divulged the price. HTC UNVEILS HTC EXPLORER™ – CONTINUES TO EXPAND THE GLOBAL MARKET FOR AFFORDABLE SMARTPHONES HTC Explorer delivers an affordable smartphone with HTC Sense and distinct design NEW DELHI, INDIA – September 29, 2011 – HTC Corporation, a global leader in mobile innovation and design, today unveiled HTC Explorer, its most affordable smartphone and the latest addition to its global portfolio of devices. HTC Explorer brings an advanced smartphone experience to first time smartphone customers. With a curved and compact design, a 3.2" HVGA touchscreen and 3MP camera, HTC Explorer offers smartphone performance in an attractive and affordable phone. "HTC Explorer is an easy-to-use smartphone that puts the customer in control, providing quick access to their most important content and information," said Jason Mackenzie, president of global sales and marketing, HTC Corporation. "HTC Explorer is simply a smarter phone for anyone and it represents another clear demonstration of HTC's global commitment to expanding the market for advanced smartphones." HTC Sense With HTC Sense™ integrated, customers experience sharp graphics, vibrant animations, a wide variety of widgets and a cinematic and immersive weather experience. HTC Explorer also includes a customizable lock screen that functions as a real-time window to the customer's most important information and content, such as social updates, photos, weather or stock updates that are viewed by simply waking up the display. The lock screen also enables quick access to the camera for capturing those important moments. It also includes a new Smart Dialer that displays a one-touch menu for quick, easy dialing of contacts. Stay connected with family and friends Track social updates from colleagues, friends and family with the People widget that displays social updates in a single easy-to-view thread. You can also easily send a photo, video clip or location in a message with just one touch. Fast Intuitive Web Browsing HTC Explorer provides a complete web browsing experience with Adobe® Flash® support, and is the first in its class with a HVGA display, allowing you to run nearly all of the applications in Android Market. Smart URL prediction provides quick access to the top 100 websites, while automatic URL correction streamlines web navigation. Users can make restaurant reservations or connect to customer service hotlines just by tapping the phone numbers listed on any website. And if you've forgotten to print out the map of your destination, simply tap on the address to bring up a real-time map and its location. Take control of your life The HTC Explorer allows you to access multiple work and personal email accounts and combine different calendars into a single view. Appointments from each calendar are displayed in different colours to deliver a clearer picture of your busy day. New calendar invites are also managed from one tab allowing you determine the best use of your time. HTC Explorer offers you control over your data and mobile services with a usage monitor that tracks your call minutes, messages and data to keep you on top of your spending. Availability The HTC Explorer will be available across key markets in EMEA and Asia from Q4 2011 in Metallic Black, Active Black and Metallic Navy. Customers will be also able to customize their HTC Explorer with a range of optional back covers including Metallic Blue, Metallic Orange, Metallic White and Metallic Purple. First up, we'd better clarify that there's a good chance this handset isn't coming to the States. HTC refused to confirm or deny when we asked them, but at this point official availability will only extend to Europe, Africa, Asia and the Middle East from early October. Moreover, earlier leaks we've seen of this handset, including under its Pico codename, omitted US bands. In any case, even if the Explorer doesn't manage to discover the New World, HTC might have some similar device up its sleeve specifically for that market. The Explorer's most important attribute will undoubtedly be its price, which again still lacks official confirmation and will in any case depend on local carriers. When pushed, HTC told us that the price would be "somewhere below" that of the $290 Wildfire S and possibly closer to that of the old Brew-powered Smart, which was around $160 mark. This puts the Explorer head-to-head with Huawei's latest bargain offering, the Ideos X3 (aka Blaze), which is officially priced at "under £100" ($160) in the UK but can be had for as little as €100 ($135) in Europe. The Blaze actually has very similar specs, so the Explorer will have to come in far below the price of the Wildfire S if it's to stand a fighting chance. Personally, we see smartphones at this price point as backup devices -- something to keep charged up and ready for a quick SIM swap when you need to go out for football practice, or camping or a club. At first glance, the HTC Explorer seems to deliver on that front: it's a full Android experience so you can keep all your apps and widgets synced up for a seamless switch from your main phone, including all your latest emails, calendar appointments, Spotify tracks etc. The device we toyed with was running Sense 3.5 on Android 2.3.5, which had an uncluttered homescreen and customizable bottom bar that felt suited to the relatively small and low-res panel. Also, the wrap-around case design felt tough enough for our purposes, with superior build quality compared to the Ideos X3. It was slightly on the chunky side, however, with thickness at 12.8mm compared to just 11.2mm for the X3 -- and the difference feels bigger in the pocket than it looks on paper. Incidentally, the Explorer's case can be switched out for different colors -- there's only a choice of blue and black right now, but other flavors are expected to follow in the future. 600MHz is just about enough power for the apps you're likely to want to use, and we didn't notice any lag or slowdown during our brief time with the device. On the other hand, the Ideos X3 has the same clock-speed and we'd have enough time with that device we know that it does exhibit some annoying lags, so we'll have to wait to see if the Explorer's engine is better implemented. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Flickr unveils Android app, introduces real-time Photo Session feature (video) Posted: 29 Sep 2011 12:15 AM PDT  The Android community may be awaiting its very own Instagram app, but at least Flickr has now stepped up to fill the void. Yesterday, the photo-sharing service unveiled its very first Android app, along with a new social feature known as Photo Session. Available for free on the Android Market, the app allows users to snap, filter and upload their photos directly to Facebook, Twitter or Flickr, all from the comfort of their own handset. It also features an array of camera functions like flash, ratio selection, and shutter focus, along with ten high-quality filters. Photo Session, meanwhile, allows you to browse through images with your friends in real-time. All you have to do is round up your online comrades, start a session and begin flipping through a photostream. Every time you move on to the next image, your friends will, too, effectively turning any browsing affair into a collective, Don Draper-like slide show. For more details, check out the source links below, or trot past the break for a video run-down of Photo Session. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| RIM details Android compatibility, apps written with NDK see Canadian visas declined Posted: 28 Sep 2011 11:12 PM PDT  | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| OWC updates its Mercury Extreme Pro 3G SSD lineup, offers 30GBs for just $68 Posted: 28 Sep 2011 10:06 PM PDT  Say hello to Other World Computing's latest 2.5-inch SSD, the 30GB variant of its Mercury Extreme Pro 3G series (3Gb/s, of course). This SandForce-driven SSD may not have loads of storage, but priced at a wallet-friendly 68 bucks, it's certainly tempting if your optical drive's been gathering dust. Whether you're running an ungodly amount of Firefox tabs on a Mac or Windows machine, you'll be covered with "sustained data rates of over 275MB/s," keeping your tasks speedy. Ready to ditch the beach balls and hourglasses? It's available now from OWC and you'll find more info in the PR past the break. OWC Announces Mercury EXTREME Pro 3G As Lowest Cost Of Entry In Award-Winning, Solid-State Drive Line $67.99 MSRP SSD Ideal for 'Supercharging' Macs and PCs with Faster App and OS Operation September 27, 2011 Woodstock, IL -- Other World Computing (OWC®) http://www.macsales.com, a leading zero emissions Mac® and PC technology company, announced today the addition of its lowest-cost- of-entry Solid-State Drive to its award-winning SSD line. The new OWC Mercury EXTREME™ Pro 3G SSD combines award-winning SandForce® technologies and Tier 1/Grade A NAND to deliver data rates over 275MB/s in a noiseless, more reliable form factor over conventional magnetic hard disk drives. Designed and manufactured in the U.S. with imported parts, the new OWC Mercury EXTREME Pro 3G 30GB SSD's $67.99 MSRP makes it one of the lowest-priced, high-performance SSDs on the market. Maximizes Any Computer's 3G Data Bus Consumers using a Mac or PC equipped with the Serial ATA data bus will find the OWC Mercury EXTREME Pro 3G 30GB is able to deliver near bus saturating speed. Independent tests have confirmed the OWC Mercury EXTREME 3G SSDs delivers sustained data rates over 275MB/s and provides significant benefits in overall system responsiveness and sustained workflow. No Slow Down With Repeated Use While ordinary SSDs initially offer fast read/write performance; they experience significant write speed degradation over repeated usage. Independent simulation tests conducted by leading drive performance experts like MacPerformanceGuide confirm OWC Mercury SSD's ultra-efficient Block Management & Wear Leveling technologies are able to eliminate virtually any reduction in data transfer speeds over heavy, long-term usage without dependency on less-than-effective OS TRIM management. Up To 100x Greater Data Protection By utilizing SandForce DuraClass™ technology along with no moving parts, the OWC Mercury EXTREME Pro 3G provides an increase of up to 100x in data protection, compared to ordinary SSDs and leading enterprise-class hard disk drives. By combining the highest level of Error Correction Code (ECC) and SandForce RAISE™ (Redundant Array of Independent Silicon Elements) technology, along with 7 percent over provisioning, the OWC Mercury EXTREME Pro 3G provides RAID-like data protection and reliability without loss of transfer speed due to parity. Risk-Free 30-Day Satisfaction Guarantee To ensure the highest level of customer satisfaction and confidence, the OWC Mercury EXTREME Pro 3G SSD comes backed by a 30-Day Money Back Guarantee. If consumers are not completely satisfied with their OWC SSD for any reason, they simply need to contact OWC's award-winning Customer Service department - which offers 24/7 Live Chat support - to request a full, hassle-free refund. "While small in capacity, this new 30GB model offers a huge performance boost in application and OS operation," said Larry O'Connor, Founder and CEO, Other World Computing. "At its price point, you can't beat its use as a boot and app load drive while offloading storage and backup duties to platter based drives." Includes Only Mac-Friendly Updater While the OWC Mercury EXTREME 3G 30GB SSD comes with the latest SandForce firmware revision, it also includes the industry's first and only Apple/Mac-compatible firmware updater should the firmware need to be updated in thefuture. The firmware updater eliminates the need for a PC, ownership of Windows or other operating system, or the creation of a specially designated drive partition that other brand SSD updaters have required. For more information onOWC's proprietary firmware updater, visit:http://eshop.macsales.com/tech_center/OWC/SSD Adapters From $3 Offer Easy Install In 3.5" Drive Bays Desktop users wanting to experience the performance benefits of an OWC Mercury SSD can choose from one of five adapters OWC offers starting at $3 for utilizing 2.5" drives in 3.5" bays. For an overview of these to determine which adapter can meet particular needs, visit http://blog.macsales.com/11999-drive-adapters-galore%E2%80%94which-is-the-right-one-2 Pricing, Availability Compatible with Macs, PCs and external enclosures that utilize 2.5" drives, the OWC Mercury EXTREME 3G 30GB SSD is available now from Other World Computing as well as through select retailers. The $67.99 MSRP drive features 7% over provisioning, Tier 1/Grade A NAND, and a three-year warranty. For more information on the OWC Mercury EXTREME 3G 30GB SSD, including reseller inquires, visit: http://eshop.macsales.com/item/Other%20World%20Computing/SSDMX030/ Industry's Most Comprehensive SSD Line for Macs and PCs The new OWC Mercury EXTREME 3G 30GB model joins OWC's existing line of performance-leading, world record-breaking '3G' (3Gb/s) and '6G' (6Gb/s) Mercury SSDs available for nearly every Mac and PC produced over the past decade in capacities from 30GB to 480GB starting from $67.99. For more information on the complete OWC Mercury SSD line, including expert benchmark reviews, visit: http://eshop.macsales.com/shop/SSD/OWC/. For more information on the OWC catalog of over 2,900 performance upgrades and accessories, or for reseller inquires, visit: http://eshop.macsales.com/ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Plantronics intros Marque M155, its lightest Bluetooth headset for smartphone users Posted: 28 Sep 2011 09:01 PM PDT  Along with providing hands-free convenience for mobile users on-the-go, Bluetooth headsets serve a fine purpose for crazies, giving them something to point to when they're rambling incoherently to themselves. Now, the latest offering from Plantronics brings greater comfort and style to both types of users. The Marque M155 heralds the company's smallest and lightest headset to date, which weighs in at just 7 grams -- approximately the weight of a ballpoint pen. Designed specifically for Android and iOS phones (though widely compatible with more), the M155 offers voice-guided pairing assistance, customized apps and the ability to answer or ignore calls with verbal commands. What's more, all purchasers will receive a one-year subscription to the company's Vocalyst service, which offers the ability to send email, update Twitter, check the weather, listen to news feeds and more -- all hands free. Available in jet black or arctic white, the Marque M155 will retail for approximately $60 and is available for pre-order beginning today. Plantronics Delivers A Smarter and Smaller Headset for Your Smartphones Marque Product Allows You to Talk or Listen While You Tap, Text and Swipe Santa Cruz, CA, September 29, 2011 – Your smartphone has a new best friend. Meet the Plantronics Marque™ M155, a smarter and smaller headset, that offers voice-guided pairing for iPhone® and Android™ smartphones, voice recognition so you can answer or ignore calls completely hands-free, and stereo Bluetooth® (the A2DP standard), which allows you to listen to music, GPS directions or your email, all while providing the great stereo quality in the smallest, lightest weight design yet at just 7 grams. "Smartphone users want to harness the power of their phones to complement and simplify their busy lives," said Elizabeth Hamren, Plantronics' vice president of marketing. "The Marque lets them take advantage of the full range of their phone's capabilities, even while talking or listening to music or a podcast, all in a great looking, super lightweight device." Smartphones have seen impressive growth the last few years and we have quickly come to depend on the all-in-one devices. Whether used as a cell phone, organizer, an email device, or all of the above, having a smartphone is now seen as not just smart, but a necessity. In fact, IDC tracked shipments of 304.7 million smartphones in 2010, and expects that number to hit 472 million for all of 2011 -- a growth rate of 55% over 2010. IDC now expects the number of smartphones to grow at an annual rate of 26% a year through 2015. By then, IDC said 982 million smartphones will be shipped by manufacturers to retailers. Outrageously Small and Light The Marque is Plantronics' smallest headset ever and offers excellent sound quality in an amazingly lightweight design. At seven grams it weighs less than most ball point pens. It is so small you'll hardly know you're wearing it. Voice Activation Need to access your information, but can't look at your phone? With Marque, to answer a call – just say "answer" and you are connected. The Vocalyst™ Voice and Text Services also allow you to stay connected with your voice. Send email or text messages, post to Facebook and Twitter, or check the weather-hands-free. With Vocalyst, press a button on your headset to connect; speak simple demands to listen to emails or text messages; or listen to feeds from your phone to catch up on the news and learn who won the big game. A one year subscription to the cloud-based Vocalyst service is included with purchase of the Marque. Apps Make It Easier Get the most from Marque and your smartphone with iPhone and Android, currently available in the Android Market and Apple App Store. These apps will do a sound check and familiarize you with the added functionality of your headset, such as streaming music, with much more to come. Pricing and Availability Marque M155 is available in Jet Black or Arctic White for $59.99. It is available for pre-order today at Amazon.com, Plantronics.com and at select retailers and wireless carriers nationwide. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Gibson's Firebird X robot guitar finally ready to ship after a very, very long delay Posted: 28 Sep 2011 08:11 PM PDT  GIBSON INTRODUCES THE FIREBIRD X-A LIMITED EDITION ALL-IN-ONE GUITAR SYSTEM Innovation reigns supreme with a user-friendly, beautifully playable guitar that features automatic self-tuning, multiple in-guitar effects, and wireless pedal control Nashville, Tennessee: On Friday September 30th 2011 Gibson Guitar Corp will take guitar engineering to new heights with the introduction of the Gibson Firebird X (www.gibson.com/firebirdx). An evolution of the 1960s classic Gibson Firebird model, the Firebird X is loaded with ground-breaking technologies like fourth-generation Robot tuners for automatic tuning, onboard effects based on computer plug-in technology, and wireless Bluetooth pedals for unsurpassed usability on stage and in the studio. In addition, the Gibson Firebird X is designed for compatibility with hardware and applications developed by third party companies-an industry first. Gibson's "Pure-Analog™" Engine makes this possible in conjunction with an authorized App store, where vendors can sell Gibson-compliant applications. Limited to 1,800 models in two unique finishes-Redolution and Bluevolution-the Gibson Firebird X will retail for $5,570 msrp. "Innovation has always been the driving force at Gibson, and the Firebird X is nothing short of groundbreaking," says Henry Juszkiewicz, Gibson Guitar Chairman and CEO. "The Gibson Firebird X is truly the most technologically-advanced guitar ever conceived, with multiple built-in effects that take sonic capabilities to an entirely new level-while retaining the classic appeal of a finely-crafted, supremely playable instrument." As an added bonus, all registered owners of the Firebird X gain instant entry into the Firebird X Visionaries Club, an on-line community where members have exclusive access to software, patches, manuals and other supporting downloads. In addition, members can create and maintain personal profile pages; post and share Firebird X preset files, audio and video content; and communicate/interact with fellow Firebird X owners, artists and Gibson staff. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS: The Gibson Firebird X has a lightweight body (six pounds total) made from hand-sorted swamp ash; a thin, fast, asymmetrical rock maple neck with a smooth, non-stick satin finish; and a maple finger board. Gibson has also developed the unique ProX case to protect the instrument, with the ability to survive a fall from a six-foot building. Built-in effects capability, accessible with a minimum of motion and disruption, enable users to simply morph settings and switch into different effect. Presets recreate the world's best tones and generate a plethora of new ones. With a fourth generation of supporting hardware and software the Gibson Firebird X is self-tuning, allowing the guitar to change tunings quickly and accurately. Designed to look like standard pickup selectors, the two "tog-pots" have control built into the rotatable toggle shaft to let users morph smoothly from unprocessed to processed sounds. A third "tog-pot" blends acoustic sounds from the piezo pickup, along with the electric pickups or only acoustic sounds. Optimized to sound like Gibson's acclaimed J-45 acoustic guitar, the basic acoustic guitar sound is virtually indistinguishable from an acoustic guitar's electric output. Three mini-humbuckers with side-by-side coils and a hexaphonic piezo bridge pickup with an improved low noise, high dynamic-range preamplifier make the Firebird X a fully active guitar. The bridge piezo pickup includes hex outputs (each string can provide a separate output for computer or live performance setups), which allow everything from totally new sounds from "clean" distortion and synth-like timbres to sophisticated surround possibilities. Thanks to advances in low-power circuitry, greater Robo-Tuner efficiency, and power saving technologies adapted from laptop computers, the Firebird X internal battery lasts for over two hours of continuous use and, if needed, can be swapped out in seconds with a readily available camcorder battery. Gibson partnered with CSR, a global leader in wireless technology, to develop an expression pedal and footswitch unit (included with purchase) for the Firebird X. "CSR combined our unsurpassed Bluetooth connectivity technology and expertise with our passion for creativity to make Gibson's vision a reality," says Anthony Murray, CSR Senior Vice President of Audio and Consumer Business. "The result is an amazing system that enables players to experience precise, intuitive control of the instrument with absolutely no wires to get in the way." Optimized for musical applications, the pedals and footswitch snap together for a secure mechanical and electrical connection to create a compact pedal board setup. Although the heart of the distortion options within Firebird X use McDSP's critically-acclaimed Chrome Tone plug-in, Gibson engineers included multiple modulation, delay, and reverberation effects including new effects like "dynamic" delay and old favorites like spring reverb, analog chorus/delay, and a 10-second looper. The Firebird X features Gibson's turbo-charged "Pure-Analog™" engine, which provides an arsenal of professional world class sounds and effects as well as professional analog sound. It is user-replaceable, and allows 3rd party developers to make new exciting use of the engine by allowing their software, sold in the Gibson app store, to run on the guitar's engine. For more information on the Gibson Firebird X and to find the nearest dealer, please visit http://www2.gibson.com/Products/Electric-Guitars/Firebird/Gibson-USA/Firebird-X.aspx. ABOUT GIBSON GUITAR CORP. Gibson Guitar Corp. is known worldwide for producing classic models in every major style of fretted instrument, including acoustic and electric guitars, mandolins, and banjos. The Gibson Les Paul guitar is the bestselling guitar of all time and bears the moniker of a tribute to the late famed musician of the same name. Collectively, the Gibson Robot Guitar, Gibson Dark Fire, Gibson Dusk Tiger and the Gibson Firebird X represent the biggest advances in electric guitar design in more than 75 years. Through the Gibson Foundation, Gibson Guitar Corp. has become equally known for its philanthropic efforts on behalf of music, education, health and human services. Founded in 1894 in Kalamazoo, MI and headquartered in Nashville, TN since 1984, Gibson Guitar Corp.'s family of brands includes Epiphone, Dobro, Kramer, Steinberger, Tobias, Echoplex, Electar, Flatiron, Slingerland, Valley Arts, Maestro, Oberheim, Baldwin, Sunshine Piano, Take Anywhere Technology, J&C Fischer, Chickering, Hamilton, and Wurlitzer. Visit Gibson's website at www.gibson.com. Follow Gibson Guitar at www.twitter.com/gibsonguitar and www.facebook.com/gibsonguitar. About CSR CSR is a global provider of innovative silicon and software solutions for the location-aware, media-rich, cloud-connected world. Our platforms are optimised for the automotive navigation and infotainment, digital cameras and imaging, connected home infotainment and wireless audio markets. We provide solutions to complex problems in the audio-visual, connectivity and location technology domains across a broad range of markets, with a technology portfolio that includes GPS/GNSS systems, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, FM, NFC, aptX and CVC audio codecs, JPEG, MPEG, H.264 imaging, IPS printing, microcontrollers, DSPs and broadband receivers. CSR's technology solutions and market platforms enable its customers to deliver a superior user experience and are adopted by leaders in the auto, computer, home and mobile markets. More information can be found at www.csr.com Keep up to date with CSR on our blog, or follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/CSR_plc | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Panasonic shows us its softer side, intros trio of high-tech robotic helpers Posted: 28 Sep 2011 07:05 PM PDT  September 26, 2011 05:16 AM Eastern Daylight Time Panasonic to Unveil Innovative Communication Assistance Robot "HOSPI-Rimo" and New Models of Hair-Washing Robot and "RoboticBed®" at International H.C.R. 2011 International H.C.R. 2011 OSAKA, Japan--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Panasonic Corporation today announced the development of an innovative communication assistance robot named "HOSPI-Rimo" and new models of its Hair-Washing Robot and RoboticBed®. These robots are designed to support people who need assistance to lead safe, comfortable and pleasant lives. Panasonic will showcase prototypes of these three robots at the 38th International Home Care & Rehabilitation Exhibition (H.C.R.2011) to be held from October 5 - 7, 2011 at the Tokyo Big Site. HOSPI-Rimo serves as an intermediary to enable comfortable communication between people who are bed ridden or have limited mobility to communicate with other people, for example, their attending doctor in a separate room in the hospital or friends who live far away, as if they were interacting face to face. Panasonic developed "HOSPI" automatic medication delivery robot, which is used in hospitals in Japan and other countries. HOSPI-Rimo employs HOSPI's autonomous mobility technology and high-definition visual communications technology Panasonic is renowned for. The new Hair-Washing Robot can complete the entire process of hair washing automatically, from wetting to shampooing, rinsing, conditioning and drying. When the first model was unveiled at the same exhibition last year, it received great response, including requests for additional functions and commercialization. The new model features washing arms with more fingers and improved mechanics than the previous model to give more comfortable washing experience. RoboticBed®, an electric bed transformable into an electric wheelchair and vice versa, also attracted much interest, including commercialization, when it was first introduced at H.C.R. 2009. Since then, Panasonic has made constant improvements by incorporating requests from both caregivers and recipients, as well as by finding solutions for practical and safety issues identified through its activities under the Project for Practical Applications of Service Robots coordinated by NEDO (New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization), an independent Japanese administrative agency. Panasonic has been developing safety technologies and guidelines under the project. The Robotic Canopy, introduced together with the RoboticBed®, also received a number of requests, including easier installation and more user-friendly way of communication. These requests have led the company to develop the new communication assistance robot, HOSPI-Rimo. Combining its expertise in robotics and information technology, Panasonic aims to meet the needs of both of those who give and those who receive care by offering robots as well as robot system solutions that provide total support through collaboration between robots and humans. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Disney launches two new Android smartphones, mouse ears not included Posted: 28 Sep 2011 06:08 PM PDT  | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Toshiba prepping new 560Mbps TransferJet chip Posted: 28 Sep 2011 05:02 PM PDT  | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Kyocera Duramax ready to kickoff Sprint's Direct Connect service on October 2nd for $70 Posted: 28 Sep 2011 04:16 PM PDT  All of the hullabaloo about Sprint's new CDMA-based Direct Connect service was not for naught, as the Now Network has finally confirmed that it will indeed be launching in a limited number of markets this upcoming Sunday, with broader expansion coming in early 2012. To get things started, however, the network ought to have a phone or two that have the tech built in, right? The Kyocera Duramax will receive the honor of being the very first phone to work with the new plans and will be a certified 810G military-standard clamshell handset with a 3.2MP camera, stereo Bluetooth, a 2.5mm headphone jack (not a typo) and a Dura-Grip rubber casing. What about the Kyocera Duracore and the Motorola Admiral? They're still forthcoming, but Sprint only mentions that both devices are coming out before the end of the year. The sooner the better here, because the lack of options can't possibly be a selling point for the brand new service. The nitty-gritty details are in the presser after the break. Sprint's New Push-to-Talk Service – Sprint Direct Connect – to Launch Next Week 3G CDMA-based Sprint Direct Connect will expand push-to-talk coverage, enhance customers' broadband data capabilities, and enable new features Kyocera DuraMax available exclusively from Sprint Oct. 2 for $69.99 OVERLAND PARK, Kan. – Sept. 27, 2011 – Sprint (NYSE: S) today announced a Sunday, Oct. 2, launch date for Sprint Direct Connect®, ushering in the next generation of push–to-talk service from the company that pioneered push–to-talk. Sprint Direct Connect will come packed with broadband data capabilities, familiar push-to-talk features, rugged and reliable handsets, and a broadening push-to-talk coverage map expected in early 2012. "Our customers are asking for broadband and push-to-talk," said Paget Alves, president-Sprint Business. "We've seen steadily increasing demand for faster data speeds, better and broader coverage, and more applications on push-to-talk devices. Sprint Direct Connect is designed to solve for all three." Sprint's 3G data network and our enhanced push-to-talk platform will deliver instant calls, increased push-to-talk reliability, and support for cutting-edge data applications. Sprint's broadband speeds will enable customers to experience the latest in technology applications, such as enterprise business productivity applications, social and multimedia support, and even advanced push-to-X capabilities in the future. Sprint's upgraded push-to-talk platform, designed with Qualcomm, plays a significant role in enabling Sprint Direct Connect enhancements and expanded coverage footprint capability. "Qualcomm is providing Sprint a carrier-grade, IP-based solution that delivers the advanced push-to-talk experiences customers are demanding today and sets a solid foundation for Sprint Direct Connect to support even more advanced communications in the future," said Michael Wallace, senior vice president and general manager of Qualcomm Internet Services. Among the initial Sprint Direct Connect services: · Direct Connect® – Instant, one-to-one push-to-talk calling nationwide, with any other Direct Connect subscriber. Direct Connect is the core push-to-talk feature and is designed for interoperability across Sprint and Nextel network platforms. · Guaranteed Talk Permit – The assurance that when you hear the push-to-talk "chirp" that your call was successfully transmitted. · Call Alert with Text – Send an audio alert with an optional text message to let another Direct Connect subscriber know you are trying to reach them and why. · Group Connect® – Communicate with up to 20 other Sprint Direct Connect subscribers all at once – nationwide, at the push of one button. · TeamDCSM – Communicate with up to 200 other Sprint Direct Connect subscribers at the same time nationwide1. · NextMail® – Send a recorded message to any email worldwide or mobile handset via text message by using the Direct Connect button. · Availability Notification – Request the availability status of another push-to-talk member and, if they are busy, request a notification when they are free. Sprint Direct Connect Coverage Sprint Direct Connect service will continue to evolve. In early 2012, the Sprint Direct push-to-talk coverage area is expected to grow to match the Sprint CDMA voice coverage area – expected to be almost three times the square miles covered by Nextel iDEN today. Additionally, in 2012, international push-to-talk calling to select countries will also begin rolling out to help support our current customers with international push-to-talk needs. Sprint Direct Connect Devices In the fourth quarter, Sprint will begin to offer three new Sprint Direct Connect devices. The first new handset, Kyocera DuraMax, will be available Oct. 2 for $69.99 with a new two-year service agreement or eligible upgrade and after a $50 mail-in rebate via a reward card2. It will be available in all Sprint retail channels, including Web sales (www.sprint.com) and Telesales (1-800-Sprint1). Kyocera DuraMax is the workhorse of the new Sprint Direct Connect portfolio. It has a rugged exterior and non-slip Dura-Grip® surface, a 2.0-inch QVGA TFT main display, 3.2 MP camera with flash and camcorder, and is designed to meet Military Standard 810G for dust, shock, vibration, extreme temperatures, blowing rain and water immersion (up to 30 minutes in one meter of water). Kyocera DuraCore, a rugged phone built to meet Military Standard 810G specifications for dust, shock and vibration, to withstand tough environments is expected to launch by year-end and a Sprint Direct Connect Android device by Motorola is lined up and expected for fourth quarter. |
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