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Tuesday, November 29, 2011

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Amtrak begins testing e-ticketing system, other futuristic things

Posted: 29 Nov 2011 10:59 AM PST

It's been a long time coming, but it looks like Amtrak is finally ready to get with the times. This month, the human-carrier began testing a new e-ticketing system for passengers traveling along its Downeaster line, which extends from Maine to Boston. Under the trial, travelers can either print their tickets at home, or have them e-mailed as a barcode-laced PDF file for conductors to scan. Customers can also change their reservations at the last minute, without having to wait in line at the ticket counter and interact with other people. It's not exactly cutting-edge technology, but Amtrak attributes the delay to the unique nature of the railway, where conductors check tickets in transit and have to deal with a steady stream of passengers getting on and hopping off. As a result, the company had to find a scanning device reliable enough to handle this constant flow of organisms, though it looks as if it's nearing a solution. Amtrak plans to expand the trial to California in February, and if that goes well, the system could roll out on a nationwide basis as early as this summer.

Motorola Xoom 2 unboxing and first impressions (video)

Posted: 29 Nov 2011 10:37 AM PST

What's this oddly curved box we see before us? Ah, yes, it's Motorola's (joint) second attempt at the Android tablet game. The Xoom 2 is another 10.1-inch widescreen Honeycomb offering, looking to make up for the lost opportunities of its predecessor -- slimmer, faster and certainly packing more vertices. While we put it through its paces, we thought you'd appreciated some close-up shots with what appears to be the final retail model. First impressions? Those corners certainly do help keep it in our hands, and performance seemed suitably speedy. It's worth noting that -- at least on first impressions -- Motorola hasn't tampered excessively with the Honeycomb, something we weren't too happy about on Moto's Droid RAZR. We also suspect that splash-proof nanotech coating could also be acting as fingerprint magnet. Delve into the secrets of the fitted retail box, some tablet comparisons and a touching reunion with its smartphone sibling in our gallery below, or catch a brief video tour after the break.
Motorola Xoom 2 unboxing

This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now

Samsung Galaxy Nexus torn down, Ice Cream Sandwich gets everywhere

Posted: 29 Nov 2011 10:32 AM PST

What sorts of mysteries does the Samsung Galaxy Nexus hold? Only the folks at iFixit and their trusty screwdrivers know for sure. Thankfully, the site is willing to share. Check out a teardown of one of the year's most eagerly anticipated smartphones. Thrill to the 1.2GHz dual-core processor, marvel to the five megapixel rear-facing camera and be astonished by the NFC antenna in the source link below.

Nielsen's Q3 numbers are out: Android's still atop the OS chain, Apple remains number one manufacturer

Posted: 29 Nov 2011 10:04 AM PST

Another quarter has come and gone, and you know what that means: Nielsen ratings are out again. The latest batch of numbers don't reveal anything wildly new, but they're still just as telling nonetheless: 44 percent of mobile subscribers in the US use a smartphone in the US. Of those, 71 percent are in possession of an Android device or an iPhone. Additionally, 56 percent of all phone purchases during the third quarter were smartphones. And -- this probably won't come as a surprise to anyone -- at a decisive 42 percent, Android remains the number one smartphone OS while Apple is still perched firmly on top as the leading manufacturer (28 percent). Check out the source link below and graph above for more of the tiny details.
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Android Phones and iPhones Dominating App Downloads

November 29, 2011
In the U.S., 71 percent of those with smartphones own either an Android device or an iPhone. But when it comes to smartphone apps, iPhones and Android smartphones are even more dominant: 83 percent of app downloaders, that is, those who downloaded an app in the past 30 days, use iPhone or Android smartphones.

According to Nielsen's latest data, 44 percent of all US mobile subscribers now have smartphones. Among those who purchased a new mobile phone in the last three months, 56 percent chose smartphones. Android remains the leading smartphone operating system while Apple is the leading smartphone manufacturer.

Facebook, FTC reach settlement, Zuckerberg confesses 'a bunch of mistakes'

Posted: 29 Nov 2011 09:58 AM PST

Facebook and the Federal Trade Commission have reached a settlement over consumer deception charges dating back to 2009. The commission claimed that the social networking giant made public information it promised to keep private, thanks to changes in site terms. According to the terms of the deal, user feedback will be required before the site makes changes to policies for sharing data. Mark Zuckerberg addressed his company's on-going privacy issues, admitting to "a bunch of mistakes," adding,

In particular, I think that a small number of high profile mistakes, like Beacon four years ago and poor execution as we transitioned our privacy model two years ago, have often overshadowed much of the good work we've done.

Zuckerberg assured users that Facebook is making a "clear and formal long-term commitment" to privacy tools.

Microsoft enables Android and iOS users to experience Windows Phone 7... via the web

Posted: 29 Nov 2011 09:36 AM PST

Still tempted by the fruit of another? If you're looking Microsoft's way, but aren't quite ready to toss your adoration for iOS or Android aside, the coders in Redmond are giving you an alternative to quitting cold turkey. By visiting http://aka.ms/wpdemo on one's iOS or Android browser, you'll be immediately tunneled into a emulation of Windows Phone 7. We gave it a test run here at Engadget HQ, and it seems that every tile and swipe save for Apps runs properly. Can't say the fonts and such looked as smooth on our Galaxy S II as they do on the Radar, but it's a solid effort that'll definitely serve you well if you're considering the switch. Just don't try to flip the demo horizontally -- that's clearly a no-no.
Windows Phone 7 emulator within Android 2.3's web browser

Gogo goes global: partnership with Inmarsat to give you the internet on international flights

Posted: 29 Nov 2011 09:24 AM PST

Ahh, Gogo, what a fantastic addition you've been to domestic airline travel. Besides keeping rowdy kids entertained with internet access, it affords well-traveled tech bloggers the ability to do what we do at 30,000 feet. And now, Gogo's wondrous WiFi will do the same for international passengers thanks to Inmarsat's Global Xpress satellite internet service. The partnership adds speedy Ka-band satellite technology to Gogo's existing air-to-ground service starting in 2013. After launching the Inmarsat-5 satellite in midyear, up to 50Mb/s speeds will be at your flying fingertips in some (currently undefined) regions, with worldwide coverage coming in 2014. Full details of your inflight future await in the PR after the break.
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Inmarsat GX Partners With Gogo for Worldwide Aviation Connectivity Service
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LONDON, November 29, 2011 -- /PRNewswire/ --

Inmarsat (LSE:ISAT.L), the leading provider of global mobile satellite communications services, today announced the selection of Gogo as its partner to bring Inmarsat's Global Xpress™ satellite service to the commercial airline market. Gogo will be a service provider, distributing Global Xpress service to the global commercial aviation market. Inmarsat has also selected Gogo's business aviation subsidiary, Aircell, as a distribution partner for the business and government aviation markets.

"With Gogo onboard as a service provider, we've rounded out our team to deliver Global Xpress to the commercial aviation market, starting in 2013," said Leo Mondale, Managing Director of Inmarsat GX. "The superior performance and economics of Global Xpress versus any other satellite solution in the aviation marketplace uniquely position us to support passenger connectivity across commercial and business aviation markets, on a sustainable basis. The combination of the Inmarsat Ka- and L-band satellite technologies with Gogo's air-to-ground service will support adoption of superior connectivity solutions across entire airline fleets in a way that really makes sense. We see a major commercial opportunity for Global Xpress in aviation services, which will in turn support the future growth of Inmarsat."

Working with Inmarsat, Gogo will begin in-flight testing of the Global Xpress aeronautical services after the launch of the first Inmarsat-5 satellite, which is scheduled for mid-2013. Gogo plans to offer regional service in 2013 with services for air transport, business aviation and government customers expected worldwide later in 2014.

Inmarsat's Global Xpress service will allow Gogo to utilize the first global Ka-band solution, which is expected to bring significantly improved performance to the global aero market in terms of coverage, capacity and cost. With expected transmission speeds up to 50 megabits per second, Global Xpress will power a solution that provides a high-performing satellite experience for passengers and airlines alike.

"We believe that this is truly a game changer for our industry in that it's the first scalable global solution in the market. Inmarsat has assembled an incredible team and we are highly confident in the execution plan we've put in place," said Michael Small, Gogo's president and CEO. "One of our goals is to be able to provide technology solutions that enable us to service the full-fleet needs of our current and future airline partners; regardless of aircraft size or mission. By partnering with Inmarsat, we are able to add an important piece to our technology puzzle."

"Gogo is a leader in in-flight connectivity in terms of installing aircraft, managing bandwidth and driving customer adoption," added Mondale. "We are excited to work with Gogo and all of our partners to bring Global Xpress to the aero market."

Gogo and its subsidiary, Aircell, will also be appointed as a SwiftBroadband distribution partner for the aeronautical markets.

Gogo is a leading provider of in-air global satellite connectivity solutions for business aviation through Aircell, with more than 5,000 aircraft in service. Aircell has already installed equipment that utilizes Inmarsat's SwiftBroadband solution for global connectivity service on more than 100 business aircraft.



Read more: http://www.sacbee.com/2011/11/29/4086206/inmarsat-gx-partners-with-gogo.html#ixzz1f78rGLZW

BlackBerry PlayBook gets root thanks to childishly named DingleBerry tool

Posted: 29 Nov 2011 09:05 AM PST

DingleBerry
It's been a long time coming, but the PlayBook has finally been rooted. Devs neuralic, xpvqs and Chris Wade have been hard at work and have finally discovered a persistently exploitable hole that enables unfettered root access to the PlayBook. The culmination of their efforts, DingleBerry, hasn't been released just yet, but it should be hitting the series of tubes in the not too distant future. Obviously having super user access opens a world of posibilities to developers, but there are some immediate advantages too. For one, with DingleBerry the creators were able to re-enable web access to Hulu -- not only bypassing the lack of an app, but skipping the usual requirement of a Plus account for mobile consumption. Head on after the break to see the hack in action.



Google Maps 6.0 hits Android, adds indoor navigation for retail and transit

Posted: 29 Nov 2011 08:37 AM PST

Google's already put its stamp on the great outdoors, what with its Street View fleet chronicling the well-trodden ways of our world for Maps. Which is precisely why Mountain View's turning its attention inward for that next, great navigation innovation, as it attempts to chart a course through the wilds of indoor spaces. Hitting the Android Market in the U.S. and Japan today, the company's ever-popular app gets a full version bump to 6.0, bringing with it the inclusion of retail and airport floor plans.

The newly added indoor maps don't quite offer the turn-by-turn navigation you've come to know and depend upon (that's outside-only for now), but the provided layouts should help usher you along to the nearest bathroom, clothing shop or elevator. There's no fancy equipment at use, either. All of your positioning information is culled from the same set of data (including GPS) used for "My Location," although here it's been optimized to detect movement along the z-axis. What does that mean for you, dear end user? Try a nifty feature called "Automatic Floor Detection" that'll keep track of your progress as you move about from escalator to escalator. Google's also endeavoring to extend its indoor reach, opening up its mapping inventory with a self-service tool (currently in beta) that'll allow business owners to upload floor plans directly to Maps.

If you're itching to test the tech out, you'll want to find yourself at one of the dozen-plus airport partners scattered across the country, in addition to transit hubs and major retail outlets both stateside and in Japan. Familiar commercial forces like Macy's and Takashimaya have opted-in to the indoor location service, but your best bet's going to be IKEA -- which has agreed to roll the feature out to all of its stores nationwide. So, whether you're rocking Android 2.1 or the forward-facing 4.0, prepare to let your Googlefied smartphone almost always be your guide. Follow past the break for additional shots and a video demo of the indoor geo-location in action.



Motorola MotoActv coming to the UK to motivate armchair marathon runners

Posted: 29 Nov 2011 08:25 AM PST

We feel strongly about exercise -- the only time you ever need to run is to escape from violence or, you know, Black Friday mobs. Others think it's an acceptable recreational activity, and it's these people who will be excited that the Motorola Motoactv's arriving in the UK. It's packing the same features we showed you before, including GPS tracking, 4,000 song capacity and being able to connect calls on your compatible Moto phone. It's an exclusive at specialist retailer Sweatshop for £250 and will be hitting shelves on December 1st. Just don't make us go in there, we might fall faint from thinking about all the exertion.
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Motorola Mobility Unveils MOTOACTV™ in the UK - The Ultimate Fusion of Music and Fitness

Part GPS fitness tracker, part smart music player, all you.

Nov. 29, 2011

LONDON – Nov. 29, 2011 – Burn more calories, beat that personal best and train even harder with MOTOACTV™, the new device marrying fitness and music from Motorola Mobility UK Ltd. MOTOACTV is a lightweight, wearable fitness performance tracker and smart music player in one – it's the equivalent of having a professional fitness instructor and your favourite DJ helping you train at all times. MOTACTV will be available starting December 1 from Sweatshop, the UKs leading running retailer.

Whether your goal's the completion of a fun run, marathon, or everything else in between, sync MOTOACTV with your PC, and you'll be able to check out the music you perform to best. You will be able to track your workouts over extended time periods, set goals and even create workout competitions with your friends via MOTOACTV.com. With MOTOACTV's easy to navigate touch-screen display you can instantly launch a new workout or find that one song you've been dying to hear.

"Motorola has created a new category of smart device that support your active lifestyle with the addition of MOTOACTV," said William Ripley, general manager, Companion Products EMEA, Motorola Mobility. "Workout smarter without using multiple devices or even wires, with the first multi-activity music and fitness tracking device with the brains to push you beyond your limits."

"We are thrilled to announce that Sweatshop are partnering with Motorola Mobility to bring MOTOACTV to our UK customers," said Nick Pearson, managing director of Sweatshop UK. "This is the most exciting product in the sports device market for years, and Sweatshop will help our customers get the most from it. We believe MOTOACTV can deliver real benefits to the training of our customers, whether you're an experienced marathon runner or somebody looking to get fit."

Play The Numbers Game
We get it, you love statistics. You're obsessed with your pace, number of calories burned, miles covered, personal records and fitness facts. MOTOACTV uses Motorola AccuSense™ technology and GPS to ensure measurement accuracy of your performance. Your time, distance, speed, heart rate* and calories burned are all measured, so you can reach your fitness or weight loss goals faster than ever.

Then, upload your workout to MOTOACTV.com to analyse the performance data tracked by the device and review useful, easy-to-understand charts, tools and programs that help you see your strengths and empower you to overcome challenges. You can also get workout tips and training plans from fitness experts at MOTOACTV.com and on your Motorola Android™-powered smartphone with our free mobile app available via Android Market™.

Sprint. Cycle. Sing.
Your heart's pumping, your thighs are burning but you've hit the wall with five laps to go. You need a serious tune to get you through. MOTOACTV can rock up to 4,000 of your favorite songs while tracking your every move, from the street to the gym. Ultra-portable, you choose the way you want to wear MOTOACTV: strap it on your wrist or arm, clip it to your shirt or mount it on your bike during an outdoor ride.

Your playlist is more than just workout songs: they're songs that push you to perform at your best. The smart music player learns what tracks motivate you most by measuring your performance against your music and then uses those songs to create your personal high-performance playlist.

On those days when your automatically generated high-performance playlist isn't doing the trick, you can switch to FM radio for even more song variety. And if the music is really moving you, go that extra mile – MOTOACTV tracks your outdoor training via GPS.

Keep Connected, Keep Your Pace
MOTOACTV also gives you the option to stay connected to your Motorola Android™-powered smartphone, so you can answer calls, receive texts and rock out via your headphones without breaking a stride.

MOTOACTV will tackle your fitness goals with the following features:

Ongoing tracking of fitness performance stats, including pace, distance, calories burned, and map of route covered, with automatic wireless syncing of workout data to MOTOACTV.com
8GB of storage for endless playlists
Sports a 1.6" full-color touch-screen display that auto-adjusts for indoor or outdoor lighting and is sweat-proof, rain-resistant and featuring scratch-resistant Corning® Gorilla® Glass
Option to sync with the latest Android-powered smartphone to receive incoming calls and texts
FM radio capabilities for more song variety
Up to five hours of battery life for outdoor workouts, 10 hours indoors, and nearly two weeks on standby
Supports both Bluetooth® 4.0 and ANT+ wireless connectivity for your existing fitness sensors and your future ones
Size: 46mm x 46mm x 9.6 mm
Weight: 35 g

Pricing and Availability
Starting on 1st December MOTOACTV will be available at Sweatshop stores across the UK, see www.sweatshop.co.uk for your nearest store.

The recommended retail price for MOTOACTV 8GB is from £249.99, which includes the SF200 sports wired headset, wrist strap, clip and USB charging and sync cable. For those who enjoy multiple sports, the cross training accessory pack at £39.99 adds an arm band, bike mount and wall charger to ensure you are always ready for the next training session.

Engadget's holiday gift guide 2011: HDTV and home theater

Posted: 29 Nov 2011 08:00 AM PST

Welcome to the Engadget Holiday Gift Guide! We're well aware of the heartbreaking difficulties surrounding the seasonal shopping experience, so we're here to help you sort out this year's tech treasures. Below is today's bevy of curated picks, and you can head back to the Gift Guide hub to see the rest of the product guides as they're added throughout the holiday season.
For a crowd-pleasing holiday gift, it's hard to do better than a TV (or something that plays on or plugs into a TV), so naturally we're here to help you out once again. Of course, this is an ever-changing industry segment, but we've got you covered -- regardless of whether you need a flat panel or a projector. If you're out shopping for someone that has (or wants to) cut the cable, or someone that has every channel, there's something for you. Of course, we'd also recommend keeping a close eye on the tablet and gaming categories too, but companies like Roku, Samsung and Ceton are making sure you have all kinds of options dedicated purely to video. Give them a look after the break.

On the cheap


Tron: Legacy Blu-ray


Whether or not Tron: Legacy's story makes it a great movie, its sharp visuals in 2D or 3D, and pounding soundtrack courtesy of Daft Punk will keep it near the top of the demo disc pile for a long, long time. Add in an innovative Second Screen app that pulls up special features in sync with the movie on an iPad or computer, and you've got something to impress the relatives with over the long holiday break and beyond.

Price: $29.99 on Amazon

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Star Wars Blu-ray

These are the Blu-ray discs you've been waiting for -- as long as you don't mind a bit more post-release editing, courtesy of George Lucas. Greedo shoots first, but these are still largely the sci-fi classics you remember, and both the video and audio have been carefully restored in HD.

Price: $86.99 on Amazon



Roku 2 XD

Positioned just between the $50 LT and $100 XS, we think you'll find the $80 XD is just right. It has the 1080p capability its cheaper streaming sibling lacks, while all you're missing from the highest-end model are wired Ethernet and USB hookups, plus a motion game controller.

Price: $79 on Amazon



Mid-range


Samsung BD-D5700 Blu-ray player


Sure, it may be 2011, but not everyone owns a Blu-ray player. Or perhaps they need one in another room, or a new model with access to additional entertainment like Netflix streaming. Samsung's BD-D5700 also includes access to the Samsung App portal with a slew of internet content to play, plus compatibility with local media in AVI, MKV, WMV formats, among others. Unfortunately there's no Amazon Prime Instant Video streaming -- at least not yet. With WiFi built-in and a (suddenly rare these days) optical audio out for your aging receiver, this should fit within most setups without a problem.

Price: $129 on Amazon

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Ceton InfiniTV 4

The DIY-inclined TV lover on your list knows what's up -- why put up with frustrating cable company DVRs when you can build your own? Ceton's InfiniTV 4 CableCARD tuner can turn a basic PC into a DVR easily, while also allowing for endless tweaking and extra capabilities not easily found on other platforms.

Price: $299 on Amazon



TiVo Premiere Elite

If you'd prefer a ready-made model, the TiVo Premiere Elite lives up to its name by raising the bar with four tuners, a 2TB hard drive, the freshest software build available and 1GB of RAM. Of course, membership has its costs and this box will require a $499 payment upfront, plus $20 a month for service.

Price: $499 on Amazon



Money's no object


Sharp LC-80LE632U


This one probably won't fit under the tree -- in fact, you may need to knock out a wall, but it's worth the effort. Sharp's bigger-is-better mantra has taken its LCDs all the way up to 80-inches, which is probably enough to outpace the guy down the block no matter what street you live on. It'll take a few bucks to arrange a delivery, but at double the screen size of a 55-inch model, it's money well spent. There's no 3D or super-high refresh rate chicanery here, just a big, LED backlit LCD HDTV. The biggest problem you might have is clearing out ten feet or more in front of this monster to watch it properly -- if you can call that a problem.

Price: $4,999 on Amazon

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Optoma HD33

Optoma has a long history of bringing home nicely spec'd projectors at surprisingly low prices, and its latest effort is the HD33. It sports 1,800 lumens of brightness, new image processing and is the least expensive model you'll find that can blast out 1080p 3D. Get ready for some of the most epic sports, gaming, and movie experiences available this side of the cinema.

Price: $1,458 on Amazon



Panasonic TC-P65VT30

Panasonic's premiere plasma HDTV line just keeps getting better, with improved picture quality in 2D and 3D modes, plus an adjustment for the rising blacks that plagued earlier editions. The VT30 also includes Panasonic's new Viera Cast suite of internet apps for those so inclined, but buyers are probably more impressed by a picture that continues to close in on the mighty Kuro, and at a much friendlier price.

Price: $2,999 on Amazon

Verizon details live FiOS TV service for Xbox 360, Kinect controls on tap

Posted: 29 Nov 2011 07:35 AM PST

Microsoft announced back in October that it would be bringing live FiOS TV channels to the Xbox 360 (along with some offerings from Comcast), and Verizon has now finally filled in most of the specifics. As expected, you'll need both FiOS TV and internet, plus an Xbox Live Gold membership to access the "select" live channels (up to 26 depending on your TV package), but Verizon is making a special offer available to coincide with the launch. You can get its FiOS Triple Play package including FiOS internet, TV and phone, plus a year of Xbox Live Gold for $89.99 a month if you sign up before January 21st, and Verizon will also throw in the new anniversary edition of Halo. What's more, Verizon has also confirmed that the new service will make use of Kinect voice and gesture controls, and it's accepting orders for the new bundle package right now -- the service itself will be available next month.


Show full PR text
Live Verizon FiOS TV Coming Soon to Xbox, Complete With Kinect Voice and Gesture Controls

Collaboration With Microsoft Enables Verizon FiOS TV Customers to Receive Live, Multichannel HD TV Service Integrated With Kinect via the Xbox; New Offer Now Available for Order

NEW YORK, Nov. 29, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Verizon continues to expand the borderless lifestyle for consumers, with the announcement of a new offer that makes a selection of live, FiOS TV channels available over the Xbox 360 Entertainment System.

Through a collaboration between Verizon and Microsoft, customers who are Xbox LIVE Gold members and who subscribe to both FiOS TV and Internet service will be able to view select live channels through their Xbox consoles. No extra hardware is required. And for the first time, these customers will be able to integrate their TV experience with voice and gesture commands through Kinect for Xbox 360.

New customers who sign up online for FiOS TV service can take advantage of a special offer that includes triple-play service with FiOS TV, FiOS 35/35 Mbps Internet service and Verizon voice service, starting at $89.99 a month. In addition, the offer includes a 12-month Xbox LIVE Gold Membership and the "Xbox Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary" game. The discounted offer is available through Jan. 21.

"Joining forces with Microsoft and Xbox, we are breaking the boundaries between TV and gaming, and furthering the borderless lifestyle Verizon customers enjoy with our new offers and services," said Eric Bruno, vice president of consumer and mass business product management for Verizon. "We are putting the controls in our customers' hands, and giving them the ability to watch TV on another dynamic device that they can control with voice and gesture commands.

"Whether it's your Xbox, your mobile device, your PC or your traditional television, Verizon will continue to deliver the programming consumers want, where, where and how they want it," Bruno said.

FiOS TV customers will have access to an app on their Xbox consoles, which will become available for download next month. Once customers download the Verizon FiOS TV app on their console, they can begin watching live streaming FiOS TV channels – without the need to pay for another set-top box. Customers must subscribe to both FiOS TV and Internet services. Initially, 26 FiOS TV channels will be available, depending on the customer's TV package. Customers who order FiOS TV and Internet service will receive the "Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary" game and Xbox LIVE Gold Membership token within 30 days.

As part of the offer, Verizon has partnered with leading gaming network Machinima to sponsor the Gamers' Choice Award. The award is given out during Machinima's Inside Gaming Awards, an annual event honoring the top game titles, which will be streamed live through Machinima's YouTube channel on Dec. 9.

Consumers can vote for their favorite game of the year through Facebook or on Twitter by using the #FiOSGamers hashtag, which also qualifies as entry into a sweepstakes that includes a grand prize of two years of Verizon FiOS triple-play service, a multi-room DVR, a Microsoft Kinect and 40,000 Microsoft points. Daily prizes of 4,000 Microsoft gaming points will be awarded to five winners per day, from Nov. 29 - Dec. 8.

Verizon continues to break boundaries with a variety of pioneering innovations. The company provides next-generation interactive services, including Flex View and FiOS TV Online, which extend FiOS TV beyond the home to the Internet and a range of mobile devices; an advanced interactive media guide; free interactive applications like Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and others; Media Manager, which allows customers to access on their TVs personal photos, music and videos from their computers; and In-Home Agent, which assists customers in diagnosing and resolving a range of service issues.

In addition, the company recently introduced the MY FiOS app, an easy-to-use mobile application that gives customers access to everything from movies, TV shows and personal content; to remote DVR access and control; to home and energy monitoring; to billing, account management and customer service tools.

For the latest news, updates and information about FiOS TV, visit www.verizon.com/newscenter and http://www.verizon.com/athomeblog.

Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE, Nasdaq: VZ), headquartered in New York, is a global leader in delivering broadband and other wireless and wireline communications services to consumer, business, government and wholesale customers. Verizon Wireless operates America's most reliable wireless network, with more than 107 million total connections nationwide. Verizon also provides converged communications, information and entertainment services over America's most advanced fiber-optic network, and delivers integrated business solutions to customers in more than 150 countries, including all of the Fortune 500. A Dow 30 company with $106.6 billion in 2010 revenues, Verizon employs a diverse workforce of more than 195,000. For more information, visit www.verizon.com.

Acer VP: 'We're never gonna give netbooks up, let them down, run around and desert them'

Posted: 29 Nov 2011 07:11 AM PST

Acer's no stranger to netbooks: it knows the rules and so does vice president Scott Lin, who has said that a full commitment's what he's thinking of. It comes in the wake of Samsung running around and deserting baby-laptops for ultrabooks, but Acer's never gonna say goodbye. Well-off westerners might be obsessed with slates, but emerging markets like China, India and Indonesia prefer the cheaper units. The company's plan is simple -- what it doesn't make in profit on individual units, it'll make back in the sheer volume of units sold. Last quarter Acer sold one point seven million of the things, comfortably ahead of second-placed ASUS and third placed Samsung -- the latter decided it wasn't gonna play the game anymore.

World of Goo makes Android debut, Angry Birds consider slaying ink blobs

Posted: 29 Nov 2011 06:55 AM PST

Anyone else feel like that pig-slaying pack of temperamental birdies has finally jumped the shark? Yeah, us too. Which makes World of Goo's official bow on Android especially timely. Gaming addicts have long had the option to build with blobs of these living globs on Mac, PC, Wii, and iOS, but now the architecturally-focused fun is ready to make nice with Google's legion of mobile mitts. You can snag the puzzler on the Android market now, so long as your handset's sporting FroYo and up. Unfortunately, this good time pastime doesn't come gratis, so you'll have to fork over three dolla dolla bills, y'all. Of course, you can always get your digits dirty (and prime that budding addiction) with a demo and live in the über-frugal land of forever level one.

Samsung draws in developers with S-pen SDK for Galaxy Note

Posted: 29 Nov 2011 06:29 AM PST

Ever since the mighty Galaxy Note first popped up at IFA we've been curious about that S-pen and how it'll make its way into our real-life workflow. Samsung promised there'd be an SDK back at its October London launch and it's finally here, letting developers get busy adding some S-pen magic to their apps. Version 1.0 lets you add a basic canvas, a pop-up for pen settings (opacity, line color and so on) as well as erase and un/redo. Sure, ICS might natively support stylus input, but as Samsung is keen to point out -- with its capacitive tip and configurable button -- a simple stylus this is not. And remember: until the Note gets an ICS update, you'll be scribbling all over that snappy Gingerbread install anyway. Tap that source link if you want to get your hands on the goods, and let the tic-tac-toe commence.

Twitter acquires dynamic duo at Whisper Systems, works to beef up privacy / security

Posted: 29 Nov 2011 05:52 AM PST

You know that tweet you just wrote about your innermost emotions and the tasty sandwich you just ate? It's about to become that much more secure. Adding to its list of available resources, Twitter has acquired Whisper Systems, a two-man security outfit specializing in mobile device security and data scrambling on the Android operating system. Whisper, founded in 2010 by security industry mainstays Moxie Marlinspike and Stuart Anderson, has garnered a reputation for exposing high-profile vulnerabilities in systems that encrypt data over the Internet and WiFi networks. An exact buyout price for the company has yet to be released publicly -- though Marlinspike has released tools like SSLStrip that demonstrate vulnerabilities in supposedly secure web sites and has been working on a tool known as 'Convergence' -- which helps point out unreliable web certificate authorities. Not a bad find for Twitter, a company that has yet to switch over to a default HTTPS option for its 100 million active members' posts.
Show full PR text
Whisper Systems Is Joining Twitter!
Posted November 28th, 2011.

We're moving:

We started Whisper Systems with the goal of improving security and privacy for mobile devices. We were attracted to this not only because we saw it as an opportunity to reinvent the security solutions that never really worked in the PC environment to begin with, but also because the stakes are much higher - due to the nature of mobile devices themselves - and we didn't like the way that things were looking.

We ended up tackling the full stack - all the way from application-level solutions at the top of the stack, down through a hardened version of Android, to kernel modifications at the bottom of the stack. Along the way we learned a lot, and developed products that we're proud of.

Now that we're joining Twitter, we're looking forward to bringing our technology and our expertise into Twitter's products and services.

The Transition:

The Whisper Systems software as our users know it will live on (and we have some surprises in store that we're excited about), but there is unfortunately a transition period where we will have to temporarily take our products and services offline. RedPhone service will be interrupted immediately, but FlashBack users have a month to pull off any backup data they would like before that service also goes offline.

Enormous Thanks:

Thanks to everyone who beta tested our software, sent us encouraging emails, filed thoughtful bug reports, and in general kept us going with your enthusiasm and support. We couldn't have done it without you, and we hope that we can continue to meet your expectations for software that helps provide security and privacy.

- Whisper Systems Development Team

Engadget: The Official Online News Source of CES 2012 and the CEA!

Posted: 29 Nov 2011 05:30 AM PST

CEA
If you know Engadget, you know we like to really do it up at CES. For us, the Consumer Electronics Show is serious business, and our unmatched coverage has resulted in us being named Official Blog three years in a row. This time, though, we're doing things a little bit differently. We'll be adding far more live video into the mix and, with Distro getting in on the fun as well, it was definitely time to leave that old "Official Blog" moniker behind. So, we're incredibly proud to announce that we're now the Official Online News Source not just of the 2012 International CES, but of the CEA as a whole.

The Consumer Electronics Association is the entity that hosts CES each year, and its President and CEO Gary Shapiro said the following:

Engadget does a terrific job bringing the energy and excitement of the thousands of new products launched each year at the International CES to attendees and consumers. We look forward to this expanded partnership with Engadget as they continue their dynamic coverage and analysis of the products and trends that rivet the world each January at the International CES, as well as their unique coverage of CEA's other events throughout the year.

For CES this year we'll be cranking out the news from our double-wide trailer, just like we always do, but we'll also be adding a full video studio on the floor. Engadget Live from CES will feature exclusive interviews and live product demos throughout the day as well as other regular broadcasts -- like our evening video podcast, where you can watch the whole crew get gradually more giddy as the effects of sleep deprivation sink in.

CES 2012 takes place between January 10th and the 13th. It's going to be bigger and better than ever, and we can't wait to bring it to you -- unfiltered and unadulterated -- live from Las Vegas.



Show full PR text
Engadget Named Official Online News Source of 2012 International CES

Popular Tech Blog Again Serves as News Hub for Renowned Yearly Electronics Show While Launching Site's First-Ever Onsite Video Studio

2012 International CES

November 29, 2011 08:03 AM Eastern Time

NEW YORK--(EON: Enhanced Online News)--Engadget, the popular tech and gadget blog, has been named the official online news source of the 2012 International CES®, the world's largest consumer technology tradeshow. Engadget will once again serve as a news hub for the event and will for the first time have an onsite video studio offering "Engadget Live from CES": real-time video coverage from the event, with live broadcasts; previews and product reviews; demos; interviews; commentary; daily news wrap-up podcasts; and more. In addition, Engadget has been named the official online news site for the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA), the preeminent trade association promoting growth in the $190 billion U.S. consumer electronics industry and owner of CES.

"It's exciting to be building upon our already deep ties with CES," said Joshua Fruhlinger, Editorial Director of Engadget. "While we've been the 'official blog' of the event for the last three years, being named 'official online news source' is a nice recognition that we're perfectly suited to cover all things CES. It's a win for our readers, who'll be getting around-the-clock coverage of the latest and greatest from the event, and we can't wait to get started."

Said Tim Stevens, Editor-in-Chief of Engadget: "CES is the most exciting week of the tech year, and in 2012 we'll be covering it more comprehensively than ever. As before we'll be bringing the news and liveblogs as it happens and, for the first time, we'll have an on-site video studio where we can bring live interviews and product demos straight from the show floor, plus live daily video podcasts and other broadcasts. This year we won't just be covering the news, we'll be making it."

"Engadget does a terrific job broadcasting the energy and excitement of the thousands of new products launched each year at the International CES to attendees and consumers," said Gary Shapiro, president and CEO of CEA, the producer of the International CES. "We look forward to this expanded partnership with Engadget as it continues its dynamic coverage and analysis of the products and trends that rivet the world each January at the International CES -- as well as its unique coverage of CEA's other events throughout the year."

Engadget's coverage of past CES shows featured its signature brand of obsessive tech news and analysis from every angle, all with a point-of-view of a tech aficionado. Engadget introduced a centralized hub for CES news 24/7, with breaking news, deep-dive stories about big releases, exclusive scoops, stunning photography and compelling video. As official news source, Engagdet will bring the same level of obsession to everything CEA, with better access and enhanced coordination.

In addition to "Engadget Live from CES," the Engadget team of editors, reporters and product testers will have unfettered access to bring all of the show to readers. As the year goes on, Engadget coverage of CEA events will continue, with breaking news from CE Week and other events throughout 2012.

Launched eight years ago with a commitment to integrity in tech reporting and reviewing, Engadget has risen quickly in traffic and influence to become a leading authority on technology news. The selection of Engadget as official online news source of CEA affirms its place as premier news brand in the technology space. Engadget is part of the Huffington Post Media Group.

NVIDIA announces special edition GTX 560 Ti with 448 CUDA cores, available now for $289

Posted: 29 Nov 2011 05:00 AM PST

Now that we're officially in the throes of holiday shopping season, NVIDIA's rolling out a promotion of its own, though sadly it doesn't involve any steep discounts. The outfit just announced a special edition GPU: the GTX 560 Ti with 448 CUDA cores, running at 1.46GHz, a 732MHz graphics clock and 1.25GB of GDDR5 memory charging ahead at an effective rate of 3.8GHz. Other features include support for three-way SLI, DisplayPort, HDMI and DVI. Those specs place it snugly between the current GTX 560 Ti with 384 CUDA cores, and the higher-end GTX 570, which packs 480. If this seems like a puzzling move, it is indeed the first time NVIDIA's bothered with a limited holiday edition card, though in conversations with reporters the company made it clear its new hardware is meant to dovetail with the arrival of games like The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, Battlefield 3 and Batman: Arkham City. If you're shopping for a gamer (or, you know, yourself), it's available now for $289 in the US, Canada, UK, France, Germany, Russia and Nordic countries through companies like ASUS, MSI and Gigabyte, among others.

Update: Looks like the reviews are rolling in! We've linked a handful of 'em below.

Linux Mint 12 debuts 'Lisa' as belle of the ball

Posted: 29 Nov 2011 04:38 AM PST

The Ubuntu variant famed for delivering a minty fresh taste to Linux has officially arrived at version 12. Code-named "Lisa," the distribution introduces a new desktop that's based on GNOME 3.2, yet offers extensive user customization courtesy of Mint Gnome Shell Extensions (MGSE). Open source fans will find the default search engine is now DuckDuckGo, which touts crowd-sourcing and a no-tracking privacy policy. Those concerned with aesthetics will certainly appreciate two new themes, Mint-Z and Mint-Z-Dark, and the distro also delivers upgrades to Firefox, Thunderbird and LibreOffice. Linux Mint currently rides in the pole position at DistroWatch, having supplanted Ubuntu as the alternative of choice for many Tux enthusiasts. Perhaps it's time to sample the freshness for yourself.

Researchers expose printer vulnerability, turn LaserJets into literal time bombs (update)

Posted: 29 Nov 2011 04:19 AM PST

Printers Vulnerable
Your precious printer might seem innocuous but, in reality, it could be a ticking time bomb just waiting for some hacker to trigger it. Oh, and we mean that not just figuratively, but literally as well -- they could actually be caused to burst into flames by some ne'er-do-well half-way around the globe. Of course, the potential doesn't end at remote arson, an attacker could easily gain access to a network or steal documents, and hijacking the lowly device would require little more than printing an infected file. So far researchers at Columbia University have only managed to exploit the hole on HP printers, but it's possible (if not likely) that others are also affected. Most printers look for a firmware update every time they receive a job but, for some reason, they rarely check the validity of an incoming file. A fake upgrade could easily be attached to a file sent over the internet, directly to a device -- no need to even trick anyone. HP says it's taking the issue very seriously and looking into the vulnerability, though, it says newer devices aren't affected (a claim the researchers challenge). For a lot more detail on the what and how check out the source link.

Update: HP (unsurprisingly) issued a rebuttal. It's working up a firmware update right now for certain flaws, but it'll have you know that "no customer has reported unauthorized access."

Nokia N9 user previews PR1.2 update, full of camera and imaging refinements

Posted: 29 Nov 2011 03:20 AM PST

Many N9 users are still waiting to receive the PR1.1 update from Nokia, which officially began rolling out last week, but one lucky individual is already dabbling with what's next from Espoo. After viewing the handful of screenshots, it's obvious that PR1.2 will provide a number of enhancements for photo enthusiasts. For instance, the camera application sports a refined interface with all flash options visible at once. There's also facial recognition in the gallery, along with support for color profiles in the display options. Additionally, users can now manage apps from the application menu, and keen-eyed observers will likely notice the re-styled buttons. We've also been told to expect changes to the N9's default font, Nokia Pure Text, which we can only assume will make its arrival with PR1.2. Take a peek after the break to satiate your typeface urges.

GM assures owners Volt is safe, offers loaners for good measure

Posted: 29 Nov 2011 02:14 AM PST

Reports of the NHTSA's Volt catching fire post crash-tests still got you down? Well, unless you're the type who lingers for several weeks in the vicinity of your wrecked auto, there probably isn't much to worry about. GM apparently feels the same way, as it's began contacting all 5,329 owners to "reassure them" their gasoline-electric whips are safe to drive. Those who remain unconvinced can bug the General for a presumably non-electric loaner while the whole investigation sorts itself. Or if your name is Jay Leno, you could just choose one of the other hundred in your garage.

RIM unveils BlackBerry Mobile Fusion for enterprise, extends reach to Android, iOS

Posted: 29 Nov 2011 01:20 AM PST

In an apparent attempt to solidify its standing in the corporate world, RIM has unveiled a new platform that allows IT specialists to more tightly manage company devices -- even those from rival manufacturers like Apple and Android. With the BlackBerry Mobile Fusion software, announced this morning, companies will be able to set up rules governing employee passwords apps and other software across a variety of smartphones and tablets, including the iPhone, iPad and Android handsets. The system also allows managers to remotely wipe and lock any devices that go missing or stolen, potentially bringing enhanced security to a workplace that's become increasingly fragmented. "Our customers have been saying, 'We're moving to these different adoption models, and we'd like you on board with that,'" said Alan Panezic, vice president for enterprise product management, in an interview with the Wall Street Journal. Slated to launch during the first quarter of next year, Mobile Fusion represents RIM's first foray into the multi-platform management market, and may expand even further to encompass Windows Phone devices, as well. Compatible with BlackBerry OS and BBX, Mobile Fusion will also allow users to remotely manage PlayBooks from BlackBerry handsets, though that won't happen until February, when the tablet finally receives a software update. No word yet on pricing, but Panezic says it will be "competitive" with the market.
Show full PR text
Simplifies Management of Smartphones and Tablets for Business and Government

Waterloo, ON - Research In Motion (RIM) (NASDAQ: RIMM; TSX: RIM) today introduced BlackBerry® Mobile Fusion – the Company's next-generation enterprise mobility solution and RIM's entry into the multi-platform Mobile Device Management (MDM) marketplace. Building on years of leading enterprise mobility management solutions from RIM, BlackBerry Mobile Fusion will simplify the management of smartphones and tablets running BlackBerry®, Google® Android® and Apple® iOS® operating systems.

"We are pleased to introduce BlackBerry Mobile Fusion – RIM's next generation enterprise mobility solution – to make it easier for our business and government customers to manage the diversity of devices in their operations today," said Alan Panezic, Vice President, Enterprise Product Management and Marketing at Research In Motion. "BlackBerry Mobile Fusion brings together our industry-leading BlackBerry Enterprise Server technology for BlackBerry devices with mobile device management capabilities for iOS and Android devices, all managed from one web-based console. It provides the necessary management capabilities to allow IT departments to confidently oversee the use of both company-owned and employee-owned mobile devices within their organizations."

RIM is the leading provider of enterprise mobility solutions with over 90 percent of the Fortune 500 provisioning BlackBerry devices today. The enterprise market for smartphones and tablets continues to grow in both the company-provisioned and employee-owned (Bring Your Own Device or BYOD) categories. BYOD in particular has led to an increase in the diversity of mobile devices in use in the enterprise and new challenges for CIOs and IT departments as they struggle to manage and control wireless access to confidential company information on the corporate network. This has resulted in increased demand for mobile device management solutions.

BlackBerry Mobile Fusion brings together the market-leading BlackBerry® Enterprise Server (version 5.0.3) for BlackBerry smartphones; new management capabilities for BlackBerry PlayBook tablets built on BlackBerry Enterprise Server technology; and mobile device management for smartphones and tablets running Android and iOS operating systems.

BlackBerry Mobile Fusion will provide the following mobile device management capabilities for all supported mobile devices*:

• Asset management
• Configuration management
• Security and policy definition and management
• Secure and protect lost or stolen devices (remote lock, wipe)
• User- and group-based administration
• Multiple device per user capable
• Application and software management
• Connectivity management (Wi-Fi®, VPN, certificate)
• Centralized console
• High scalability

BlackBerry smartphones will continue to benefit from the many advantages of the end-to-end BlackBerry solution including the same advanced IT management, security and control available with BlackBerry Enterprise Server 5.0.3, which is part of BlackBerry Mobile Fusion. These advanced features include BlackBerry® Balance™ technology supporting the use of a single device for both work and personal purposes without compromising the organization's need to secure, manage and control confidential information; over 500 IT policies; over-the-air app and software installation and management; high availability; and much more. BlackBerry Mobile Fusion will also introduce new self-service functionality for employees to secure lost or stolen BlackBerry smartphones and BlackBerry PlayBook tablets.

BlackBerry Mobile Fusion is currently in early beta testing with select enterprise customers. RIM is now accepting customer nominations for the closed beta program which will start in January, and general availability is expected in late March.

For more information, visit www.blackberry.com/mobilefusion.

* Device security, manageability and controls will continue to vary according to the inherent capabilities of the individual device operating systems.

Lenovo's LePhone S2 joins the Beijing party, boasts a 1.4GHz chip in a much lighter body (updated)

Posted: 29 Nov 2011 12:33 AM PST

Just to wrap up today's product launch extravaganza in Beijing, Lenovo also threw in its new LePhone S2 dedicated to the phone category in China (while insisting the 5-inch LePad S2005 is more of a tablet, but we'll let you guys do the debate). This 3.8-inch WCDMA phone is no match for many of the big players out there with its single-core 1.4GHz Qualcomm MSM8255 chip, but other than that it should be pretty sufficient for the average user. The specs include a 800 x 480 TFT display, Android 2.3.4, 512MB RAM with 8GB ROM or 1GB RAM with 16GB ROM (neither comes with memory expansion), slightly different casing design for both models, eight megapixel 720p CMOS camera and a much lighter body compared to its two predecessors -- we're looking at a reduction from 165g to just 120g (including the 1,500mAh battery) at 10.9mm thick. Despite the weight loss, this phone has kept the handy gesture area below the screen.

Sadly there's no word on release dates or prices for the S2, so again, come back in a bit for our hands-on photos from Engadget Chinese.

Update: We've now been told that starting today the S2 will be sold for RMB 2,990 (about $470) unsubsidized. There will also be a TD-SCDMA variant at some point for those hooked up to China Mobile.

Update 2: And our hands-on photos are up now! Enjoy.

Lenovo unveils the LePad S2007 and LePad S2010, both with Honeycomb and 1.5GHz dual-core chip

Posted: 28 Nov 2011 11:28 PM PST

Oh no, it isn't just about the 5-inch tabletphone today. Announced at the same event in Beijing just now are a couple of larger tablets from Lenovo: the LePad S2007 and the LePad S2010. Interestingly, the latter 10.1-inch device isn't quite the same as what we saw in our exclusive scoop from two weeks ago: it's 1.5GHz Qualcomm dual-core rather than 1.6GHz NVIDIA quad-core, 1GB RAM instead of 2GB, no funky fingerprint scanner on the back, and it's launching with Android 3.2 instead of Ice Cream Sandwich. But fret not, as we've been informed that its international counterpart -- aka the IdeaTab K2 in our scoop -- will launch with the latest Android OS; so we're just waiting for a release date.

Both of these Honeycomb tablets share many similarities: Qualcomm's dual-core 1.5GHz chip, 1GB RAM, 1,280 x 800 IPS display (pretty nice on a 7-inch form factor, with 216ppi density), eight megapixel main camera, 1.3 megapixel front-facing camera, dual-mode 3G (China Telecom's EV-DO plus China Unicom's WCDMA) for data plus voice calls, and plans to upgrade to Ice Cream Sandwich in the future. Aside from the obvious physical differences, these tablets also come with different battery capacities: the 360g-heavy, 9.7mm-thick S2007 comes with 3,780mAh that can last up to eight hours on WiFi; whereas the 670g-heavy (almost the same as the original WiFi iPad, uh-oh), 9.9mm-thick S2010 has a generous 7,560mAh that can push it to 11 hours. Like the S2005 tabletphone, both tablets will be available in China next month; so for now, stay tuned for some hands-on photos from our folks over at Engadget Chinese.

Update: It turns out that there was a slight misunderstanding regarding the voice call feature -- the Chinese press release meant using Skype-like software to enable this. Pah.

3DS system update pushed back to December 8th, Nintendo confirms

Posted: 28 Nov 2011 11:26 PM PST

November is just about over and 3DS users are still without that firmware update announced last month. They needn't worry, though, because Nintendo says it's on the way. In a statement posted to its site yesterday, the company confirmed that the refresh "is in the final stages of internal testing," and that it will be released by December 8th -- not the end of November, as previously indicated. When it finally hits, users will be able to record 3D video, access new StreetPass games, and transfer data across their 3DS systems. These all sound like good things, but they'll only come to those who wait.

Lenovo launches LePad S2005, a 5-inch Gingerbread tabletphone for China

Posted: 28 Nov 2011 10:38 PM PST

You may recall that last week we had a cheeky peek at Lenovo's upcoming tabletphone, and now our brethren at Engadget Chinese are actually touching one in Beijing! Dubbed the LePad S2005 in China (and to be branded under the IdeaTab series elsewhere), this Android 2.3.5 slate packs a 5-inch 800 x 480 LTPS display with 178-degree viewing angle (but same resolution as the Dell Streak 5's LCD, sadly), a Qualcomm dual-core 1.2GHz chip, 1GB RAM, a five megapixel 1080p imager on the back, a 1.3 megapixel front-facing camera and a 1,680mAh battery. In terms of connectivity and expansion we have a micro-USB port, micro-HDMI port and HSPA+ radio (so it's ready for China Unicom's network). All of this is packaged in a 9.95mm-thick body, weighing a total of 198g. Just as thick as the Streak 5 but lighter, even with the slightly larger battery capacity.

There aren't any prices just yet, but given that this device is entering the Chinese market in two days' time, it won't be a long wait for those obsessed with tabletphones (and speaking of which, it's rather odd that Lenovo's marketing this as a tablet rather than a phone). Stay tuned for our hands-on photos.

iTether app skirts carrier tethering plans, sets up shop in iOS App Store

Posted: 28 Nov 2011 10:25 PM PST

Ready to share your iPhone's data plan with your laptop without springing for the requisite tethering plan? No, it's not another brightly colored, data smuggling easter egg, it's iTether, a USB tethering app that has apparently made its way through Apple's approval process. The data sharing newcomer promises to pipe your existing data plan to your PC via a companion desktop application. If history is anything to go by, this $15 app won't be available for long, so you'd better get while the getting's good -- it seems that high demand has already taken Tether's website down.

Update: Aaaannnd, it has been yanked. 'Twas great while it lasted!

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

DAP Tech M9010 hits the FCC packed with radios, shows them off in epic teardown

Posted: 28 Nov 2011 10:12 PM PST

M9010
The M9010 from DAP Tech may only be running Windows Embedded Standard 7 on a rather miserly 1.3GHz Atom, but it's got more communication options than you can shake a stylus at. There's a Gobi 3000 chip for connecting via both EVDO and HSPA, GPS, 802.11 a/b/g/n, Zigbee, Wireless USB and Bluetooth, not to mention a laser barcode scanner and a camera capable of decoding QR codes. Wondering what that stunning set of antennas and sensors looks like? Well the FCC pried open the case and gave the rugged computer a thorough teardown. Check out the gallery below for all the gory gadget images you can stomach.
DAP M9010 at the FCC

Nintendo looks to keep you warm, bundled even, with two more 3DS packages

Posted: 28 Nov 2011 09:13 PM PST

So you've got a few folks on your holiday shopping list that just aren't Zelda fans. You can still spring for some Nintendo hardware with two more bundles due out December 4th. Inside, you'll find a pink Nintendo 3DS paired with your choice of nintendogs + cats: French Bulldog and New Friends or nintendogs + cats: Toy Poodle and New Friends. Both of the aforementioned bundles will set you back $169.99 -- the same cost of a lonely 3DS system purchased solo. If a pink handheld just isn't what you're after, you may opt for one of The Big N's other bundles already on shelves, including the Midnight Blue DSi XL. In need of a quick refresher before hitting the mall? Check out the PR below for a complete list of Nintendo's holiday package offerings.
Show full PR text
Nintendo News: Nintendo Keeps Everyone Bundled Up for the Holidays
November 28, 2011

REDMOND, Wash.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nintendo has a number of video game value bundles on the market already. In the spirit of the start of the holiday shopping season, it seems like a good time to introduce a few more.

On Dec. 4, Nintendo will launch new bundles featuring a pink Nintendo 3DS™ portable system and either the nintendogs™ + cats: French Bulldog and New Friends or nintendogs + cats: Toy Poodle and New Friends software. The limited-edition bundles will be available at a suggested retail price of $169.99 in the U.S. – the same price as the standard Nintendo 3DS system.

These new bundles join the already-extensive list of impressive limited-edition bundles that are now available. Each one is sure to find a recipient on everyone's shopping list:

- A The Legend of Zelda™: Skyward Sword bundle containing the just-launched game for the Wii™ system, a gold-colored Wii Remote™ Plus controller and a CD with music from the series at a suggested retail price of $69.99 in the U.S.
- A Flame Red Nintendo 3DS system bundled with the just-launched Super Mario 3D Land™ game at a suggested retail price of $199.99 in the U.S.
- A Special Edition Nintendo 3DS system with the Hyrule emblem and gold-colored embellishments bundled with The Legend of Zelda™: Ocarina of Time™ 3D game at a suggested retail price of $199.99 in the U.S.
- A Metallic Rose or Midnight Blue Nintendo DSi XL™ system bundled with the Mario vs. Donkey Kong™: Mini-Land Mayhem! game at a suggested retail price of $169.99 in the U.S.

For more information about Nintendo, visit http://www.nintendo.com.

Seagate outs second-gen Momentus XT: a 750GB hybrid laptop drive for $189 (update: actually $245)

Posted: 28 Nov 2011 08:01 PM PST

Seagate was quick to jump into the hybrid HDD/SSD fray last year, with the decently priced and capable Momentus XT. Now we have a successor with identical branding, but with the HDD upped to 742GB, NAND storage slightly increased to 8GB, plus a faster SATA III 6Gb/s interface. The 'flash-assisted drive' promises to cut boot-up and lag times compared to a standard laptop hard disk, by gradually learning which of your files are popular enough to deserve a spot in that solid state VIP lounge. We're looking at a price of $189 $245, including a five-year warranty, and availability from today. Read on the full PR.

Update: The press release sent to us stated $189, but the one that's now live on Seagate's site (at the source link) says $245, so we're switching to that. Thanks to everyone who spotted this.
Show full PR text
SEAGATE SOUPS UP LAPTOP PC PERFORMANCE WITH FAST SOLID STATE HYBRID DRIVE

Cupertino, Calif. - November 29, 2011 - Tip for revving up the speed of your laptop PC: Slip in a new Seagate (NASDAQ:STX) Momentus XT drive for faster computing, snappier gaming and lickety-split boot-up!

Seagate is now shipping the second generation of Momentus XT, its groundbreaking solid state hybrid drive for consumer and commercial laptop personal computers. With a simple drive installation, users can boost boot-up speed and overall performance to transform the use of an ordinary laptop or desktop computer into a high-performance computing experience. Momentus XT is available at online retailers Amazon, Canada Computers, CDW, Memory Systems, NCIX, Newegg, and TigerDirect, and seven original equipment manufacturers are gearing up to ship laptops powered by Seagate's fastest laptop drive ever.

"Personal computer users are creating and using more documents, photos, video and other digital content than ever before, driving strong demand for systems that deliver the highest performance they can get their hands on," said Scott Horn, vice president of worldwide marketing at Seagate."Seagate's second-generation Momentus XT is serving up solid state drive (SSD) speed, more storage capacity and simple, easy installation at an affordable price for even better, faster computing."

"High-speed storage devices make a difference when it comes to improving overall PC performance," said John Rydning, research vice president at IDC. "Seagate's newest Momentus XT gives notebook PC users an economical option for boosting PC performance while at the same time providing spacious storage capacity all in one device."
The Momentus XT drive is three times faster than a traditional hard disk drive, delivering speeds rivaling much pricier SSDs. The all-in-one design of Momentus XT makes installation for system upgrades simple, easy and affordable: the drive works in any laptop or desktop computer and with any operating system.

Momentus XT – Satisfying the need for speed
The Momentus XT hard drive delivers a massive 750GB of storage capacity and owes it speed to a Serial ATA 6Gb/second interface, 8 gigabytes of high-speed Single Level Cell NAND flash, 32 megabytes of drive-level caching and Seagate's Adaptive Memory and FAST Factor technologies. Adaptive Memory works by identifying data usage patterns, and then moving the most frequently retrieved information to the embedded solid state memory for faster access – effectively tailoring hard drive performance to each user and their applications. FAST Factor blends the strengths of SSDs and hard disk drives into a powerful device for faster access to applications, quicker bootup and higher overall system speed.

Now shipping in volume worldwide, the Momentus XT hard drive is backed by Seagate's 5-year limited warranty. Manufacturer's Suggesting Retail Pricing (MSRP) for Momentus XT 750GB is $189 $245.

Leaked Verizon document hints at white Droid RAZR, leaves speculation to us

Posted: 28 Nov 2011 07:27 PM PST

Is there a white Droid RAZR looming on the horizon? According to the above screenshot, there is. Obtained by the folks over at Droid Life, this image purports to give a glimpse into Verizon's device management system, which apparently boasts a previously unmentioned white version of Motorola's ultra-thin handset. If it's legit, the RAZR would join the likes of the Droid 2 Global and R2D2 alongside the manufacturer's predominantly white offerings, though Motorola has yet to confirm its existence. Details, then, are still scarce, but we'll let you know as soon as we hear more about any alabaster arrivals.

N900 takes a bite out of Ice Cream Sandwich, suffers Android brain freeze (video)

Posted: 28 Nov 2011 06:52 PM PST

Espoo's freshly dug some graves for its operating systems past, but that doesn't mean the mobile underground's leaving its antiquated wares behind. A hacker going by the winsome moniker of Drunkdebugger has kept the NITDroid project chugging along on the N900 with a port of Android's latest 4.0 frosty delight. Fair warning -- this is an extremely early build and is even referenced as being "pre-pre-alpha," so don't expect the overhauled, pure Google experience to be running seamlessly. Still, it's a bright spot for Nokia fanboys and girls that simply refuse to make peace with the wireless days of old. Jump past the break to take a brief look at this buggy ROM force closing.

ARM launches Android development kit with focus on power efficiency

Posted: 28 Nov 2011 06:02 PM PST

ARM Development Studio 5 Community EditionEveryone and their mother has an Android development kit nowadays. So, it's only natural, being that it's chips power the vast majority of Android devices, that ARM wants in on the action too. With the release of Development Studio 5 Community Edition, the company has expanded its dev kit's repertoire to include not just Linux, but Google's Linux-based mobile OS. (Really showing its versatility there.) What makes DS-5 special is it's focus on optimizing apps, not just for performance, but for energy efficiency -- provided you're running on ARM chips, of course. It also claims to produce code that is up to four times faster than Java, but we'll have to take the company's word on that one for now. DS-5 even integrates with the standard Android SDK as well as Eclipse IDE. Check out the PR after the break.
Show full PR text
ARM Launches Free Toolkit For Android Application Developer Community
28 November 2011

ARM® Development Studio 5 Community Edition helps Android™ application developers create native software that can run up to 4 times faster than Java code.

Cambridge, UK – 28th November 2011 - ARM today announced the release of the ARM® Development Studio 5 (DS-5™) Community Edition (CE) – a free-to-use edition of its reference software development toolkit. The new edition is dedicated to the Android application developer community and helps them create native software for compute intensive tasks that can run up to 4 times faster than Java code. DS-5 CE complements the standard SDK and NDK Android development kits by offering developers a unique set of tools to help them achieve the performance and energy-efficiency advantages made possible when ARM native code is used in Android applications.

DS-5 Community Edition includes limited, but essential functionality from the premium DS-5 toolkit to help solve common Android application developer pain points. It achieves this by providing an integrated graphical debugger for NDK-generated code and visibility of advanced processor information, including ARM NEON™ Single Instruction Multiple Data (SIMD) registers. The new toolkit permits development of Java and C/C++ code in the same Eclipse integrated development environment (IDE) to maximise productivity and ease of use.

DS-5 Community Edition features a tailored version of the ARM Streamline™ Performance Analyzer for use with compatible Android development platforms. Streamline captures detailed, system-wide performance statistics from a variety of sources which helps developers to locate hotspots in their code and isolate potential causes. Platform builders can add support for Streamline by integrating an open source driver available from the Linaro website.

"With over half a million apps on the Android market today, developers need to deliver an outstanding user experience to succeed commercially," said John Cornish, executive vice president and general manager, system design division, ARM. "ARM DS-5 Community Edition offers developers an easy to use environment for debugging and optimizing C/C++ code. This allows them to take full advantage of ARM processor technology using native code to deliver the performance and functionality that consumers demand."

Partner Quotes:

"We have been using DS-5 extensively for system level debugging and performance tuning", said Duan ZhiQiang, CTO, Thundersoft. "With the release of the Community Edition, it will enable our ISV and IHV partners to access similar capabilities, improving our platform as an application development target and expanding its ecosystem."

"The community edition of DS-5 (DS-5 CE) will further reduce the barriers to open source development on ARM. We have worked closely with ARM to ensure that DS-5 support is available as an easy to install add-on for Linaro Ubuntu images in the past and are working together to deliver a similar convenient developer experience for DS-5 CE as part of our Android images", said Alexander Sack, Platform Technical Director, Linaro. "This initiative will help users of the community edition take full advantage of Linaro optimized images."

"The release of ARM DS-5 Community Edition is welcomed by Orange and solves some of the pain points of Android native apps developers", said Yves Christol, Head of Advanced Software Centre, Devices, Orange.

Availability

The DS-5 CE is available free-of-charge for use by individuals and organizations with annual revenue of $100,000 or less, and up to 10 employees. DS-5 CE is available from ARM and can be downloaded now. For more information go to:

DS-5 CE: http://www.arm.com/ds5community
DS-5: http://www.arm.com/ds5
Linaro platform evaluation builds http://www.linaro.org/downloads/

About ARM

ARM designs the technology that lies at the heart of advanced digital products, from wireless, networking and consumer entertainment solutions to imaging, automotive, security and storage devices. ARM's comprehensive product offering includes 32-bit RISC microprocessors, graphics processors, video engines, enabling software, cell libraries, embedded memories, high-speed connectivity products, peripherals and development tools. Combined with comprehensive design services, training, support and maintenance, and the company's broad Partner community, they provide a total system solution that offers a fast, reliable path to market for leading electronics companies. Find out more about ARM by following these links:

ARM website: http://www.arm.com/
ARM Connected Community: http://www.arm.com/community/
ARM Blogs: http://blogs.arm.com/
ARMFlix on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/ARMflix
ARM on Twitter:
o http://twitter.com/ARMMobile
o http://twitter.com/ARMCommunity
o http://twitter.com/ARMEmbedded
o http://twitter.com/ARMLowPwr
o http://twitter.com/ARMTools
o http://twitter.com/ARMMultimedia

ARM is a registered trademark of ARM Limited. Cortex, Connected Community and MPCore are trademarks of ARM Limited. All other brands or product names are the property of their respective holders. "ARM" is used to represent ARM Holdings plc; its operating company ARM Limited; and the regional subsidiaries ARM Inc.; ARM KK; ARM Korea Limited.; ARM Taiwan Limited; ARM France SAS; ARM Consulting (Shanghai) Co. Ltd.; ARM Germany GmbH; ARM Embedded Technologies Pvt. Ltd.; ARM Norway, AS and ARM Sweden AB

Google Wallet unofficially finessed into Galaxy Nexus, complete with complimentary cash

Posted: 28 Nov 2011 05:12 PM PST

Galaxy Nexus owners may start looking to their phone whenever that pesky bank account is dying for some hurt. Although Google's latest smartphone doesn't officially support its mobile payment scheme, a few clever developers have introduced a functional workaround. Early reports suggest that Citi MasterCards can't be added (yet), but thankfully, the gratis Hamilton courtesy of Mountain View comes without a hitch. To get started, you'll need to unlock your phone's bootloader and install MoDaCo's custom ROM. From there, a Google Wallet patch must be applied, and its permissions then changed. The process isn't exactly for the faint of heart, but we know our readers are more than capable -- you'll find instructions in the source. Best yet, the crew at BGR verified this newfound functionality by purchasing enough sugar to make our teeth hurt. And why not? After all, it was on Google's dime.

Apple's founding documents go up for auction, estimated to bring in $150k

Posted: 28 Nov 2011 04:18 PM PST

Sure, your OG iPhone may look like a relic from Apple's past, but for a true bite of old skool memorabilia you may want to consider bidding on the company's original founding documents signed by Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak and Ronald Wayne. The three-page treasure, which established the Apple Computer Company way back in 1976 won't come cheap, though, as they're expected to go for a cool $100,000 to $150,000. Besides the starting papers, Sotheby's New York is throwing in Ronald Wayne's Statement of Withdrawal as part of the package, a document that gives up his ten percent stake in the biz -- what some may call a $2.6 billion dollar mistake. Check out the source for more auction details.

iOS 5.1 beta seeded to developers (Update: iPhone 5, new iPad and Apple TV revealed?)

Posted: 28 Nov 2011 03:22 PM PST

The latest update to iOS 5 is drawing near, folks, as the beta of version 5.1 was just released on Apple's developer site. You can grab the build if you're in possession of an iPhone 3GS or later, either iPad or the third and fourth generations of the iPod Touch. We're hoping to see some fixes to the battery life issues on the iPhone 4S, as the company has acknowledged the concern and promised a fix in the near future. Stay tuned as we learn more about the new refresh.

Update: A little digging has already revealed a new product ID contained in the update, referencing an "iPad 2,4". There's some speculation that this could be a reference to a tablet with a modem from Sprint built in, but even if that's the case, who knows if it would actually be released prior to the next generation iPad.

Update 2: More leaks! Now 9to5Mac is reporting on a new device, codenamed "J33", which it believes refers to a new model of the Apple TV box. Hit up the link for a few more well-reasoned rumors, we'll let you know if any more details surface.

Update 3: Ok, now we're starting to think someone in Cupertino is just screwing with us. One more time, sleuths have uncovered a reference to the elusive iPhone 5 (aka "iPhone 5,1") in the code, as shown above. Check the third link for more details from 9to5Mac, and prepare for a whole new round of next gen iPhone rumors incoming any minute now.

Engadget's Cyber Monday 2011 roundup

Posted: 28 Nov 2011 02:45 PM PST

Didn't feel like brawling for two-dollar waffle makers at Wally World this past Black Friday? Don't fret, because Cyber Monday is just a few hours away -- there are literally only a few clicks between you and some awesome online deals. Best of all, you don't even need leave your abode or bear lines in the cold. Just like we did for BF, we've spotted some deals in advance and thrown 'em just past the break -- sure, it's only Sunday, but don't tell that to the retailers whose sales are currently ongoing! Unless you want to miss out on some chances to save on the gadgets you've been pining for, join us past the break for our full rundown. And as usual, if you spot anything we've missed, be sure to let us know in the comments. Ready. Set. Save!

(pssst: Don't forget to keep checking back, as we'll be constantly updating this post with even more deals as we come across them!)

Update (6:45PM ET 11/28): Now with even more deals!

Audio

  • Audyssey is currently offering its South of the Market Bluetooth Audio Dock for $150 off with code "CYBER150ENG" and its Lower East Side PC speakers for $100 off with code "CYBER100ENG." Both deals will be live on its website through Tuesday.
  • Phillips is having a massive 30 percent off extended-Black Friday sale and items including its speaker docks are fair game. Notably, you can snag its $400 Sound Curve Airplay speaker dock for just $279.99 with free shipping. You'll need to use coupon code "BF2011SALE" to get in on the action, which lasts through Monday the 28th.
  • AC Gears is offering 20 percent off all headphones on its website through Cyber Monday. Use code "CYBERMONDAY"
Computers
  • From 12AM on Monday the 28th to 6AM on Tuesday the 29th (timezone specific), Dell will have a variety of pre-configured machines for Cyber Monday and accessories like monitors and printers on-sale for special low prices. Update (10:34PM ET 11/27): There's also a $100 off coupon for Alienware laptops!
  • As expected, Best Buy offering a ton of deals on computers and related accessories of all shapes and sizes.
  • If you've been itching for an 11-inch MacBook Air, Amazon is selling them for just $939.94 (normally $1,000) as a part of its Cyber Week sale. Sure, they were going for $850 on Black Friday, but a deal is a deal, right?
  • Through Monday, Sony is offering free i7 upgrades on certain VAIOs and discount bundles on top of lowering the prices on many of its machines.
  • Origin PC is loading up some of its gaming PCs with free upgrades and games like Battlefield 3 up until the 28th
Cameras
  • Nikon's 1 series interchangeable lens cameras can currently be had for 50 bucks off, with an extra $100 off lenses purchased with one of the shooters through Cyber Monday!
  • Canon's EOS Rebel T3i EF-S DSLR and 18-55mm kit lens bundled with an 8GB SD card and a camera bag can be had at Dell for $799.99 (normally $899.99). This deal includes free shipping and will be available from 12AM on Monday the 28th to 6AM on Tuesday the 29th (timezone specific).
  • Sony's Cyber-shot DSC-H70 16.1 megapixel point and shoot bundled with a 4GB SD card will be on sale at Dell for $139.99. This deal includes free shipping and will be available from 12AM on Monday the 28th to 6AM on Tuesday the 29th (timezone specific).
  • Sony itself is currently marking down certain NEX cameras by $50, among its other camera-related discounts.
  • Sony's Bloggie Touch MP4 pocket camcorder is only $95 bucks (normally about $130), thanks to Groupon. The deal lasts until until 12:59 PM PST tonight (the 28th) and is timezone specific. Notably, this offer can also be redeemed at Sony retail locations
  • Among its many other Cyber Monday deals, Panasonic is selling the Lumix FP7 16.1 megapixel point and shoot for just $99 (normally around $150)! [Thanks, D Nice]
Gaming
  • Walmart is currently offering a 250GB XBOX 360 Holiday Bundle complete with a copy of Halo Reach, Fable III, a three-month Xbox Live Gold card and your choice of another game (out of 37 options) for just $319. The deal runs through Friday, but it's "while supplies last."
  • Dell will be selling black Nintendo Wiis bundled with New Super Mario Bros. for $134.95 (normally about $150). This deal will be available from 12AM on Monday the 28th to 6AM on Tuesday the 29th (timezone specific).
  • Microsoft is selling its 4GB Xbox 360 and Kinect bundle for $200 (normally $300).
  • Best Buy is currently selling the ThinkGeek iCade for $50 with free shipping! This is most likely the lowest price it's even been sold for. Sounds like a good time for retro iPad gaming.

Home Entertainment
  • Best Buy is currently blowing out discounts on a plethora of HDTVs through tomorrow -- this notably includes the 55-inch Samsung UN55D6003 1080p LED HDTV, priced at $999.99 (down from 1,499.99).
  • Samsung's gorgeous .31-inch thick, UN46C9000 46-inch, 1080p LED HDTV is on-sale at Tiger Direct for $1,499.99. It normally sells for over $1,800 and even has a touchscreen remote!
  • Amazon is stocking the InfiniTV 4 USB and PCEi cable-tuners for just $270 (normally $300) through November 30th! You know you want to get this hooked up to that HTPC you have laying around!


Tablets and e-readers
  • Lenovo's 10.1-inch Ideapad K1 with 32GB of storage can currently be has for as low as $299!
  • RIM is still selling its PlayBook at various retailers for the discounted starting price of $199.99 for its 16GB model. Update (10:50PM ET 11/27): Use code "09OLTY12" for an extra $10 bucks off! [Thanks, Ghostbear1] Ebay is also in on the fun and offering the 32GB variant for $250
  • Amazon is offering its 3G-enabled Kindle DX e-reader for only $259 (normally over $300) through Monday!
  • Buy.com currently has the Kobo Touch with Offers on sale for a super-low $70 (usually $100)! This deal is on through Cyber Monday.
  • Take this one with a grain of salt, but there is mounting evidence that your local Walmart and Target might be selling the Amazon Kindle Fire for the ridiculously low price of $125! Let us know the outcome if you try your luck and snag one tonight!
Cellphones
  • As you may have guessed, Best Buy also has a fair amount of phone deals like a free HTC Titan 4G on AT&T with contract renewal.
  • Through Cyber Monday, for just one single penny, AT&T will sell you its Motorola Atrix, Samsung Infuse, BlackBerry 9810, HTC Inspire or LG Thrill! Of course, you'll also need to renew or sign-in to a two-year contract to reap the savings.
  • Verizon will give you its Droid Incredible 2 for ''free'' or sell you a LG Revolution and Pantech Breakout for $50 with a two-year contract, through Cyber Monday.
  • Amazon has pretty nice deal for those on Sprint seeking a 4G Android device, who also don't mind extending their contract. For just one penny you can snag a Google Nexus S 4G through Cyber Monday. Better yet, your activation fee will be waived!
  • For those who like to stick with the GSM underdog, T-mobile is offering up its LG MyTouch and MyTouch Q phones for free this Cyber Monday. Of course, some extras like a new service plan will be required.
  • US Cellular is offering up the LG Genesis, HTC Merge and BlackBerry Torch 9850, each for zero dollars after a $100 mail-in rebate, through Cyber Monday!
Software and apps
  • SwiftKey is dropping the price of its keyboard apps in Android Market by 50 percent through Cyber Monday.
  • The Google Music store is offering select albums for just two bucks through Cyber Monday!
Misc. gadgets and accessories
  • Phillips is also currently offering 30 percent off all orders of $100 or more with free shipping with code "BF2011SALE" through Cyber Monday. Of course, there is a catch -- "TVs, DVD and Blu-ray Players, and Home Theater systems" are excluded. Hey, you can still snag a Norelco for trimming those nose hairs, though!
  • Gunnar Optics is currently offering 20 to 30 percent off many of its anti-eyestrain computer and gaming glasses. This deal lasts through December 2nd, if you want to treat your pupils to something nice
  • Microsoft is currently offering 25 percent off accessories on its webstore with code "SAVE25." Take note though, this deal ends on the 28th.
  • Zagg -- you know, the company behind InvisibleShield -- is currently sporting a 50% off sale for many items on its website!
  • Makerbot has a duo of tempting deals through Cyber Monday for anyone who's been wanting to get into 3D printing. You can snag an assembled Thing-O-Matic printer for $1,999 (normally $2,500) using code "TRYPTOPHAN" or pay $999 (normally about $1,200) and assemble it yourself with code "TURKEYSTUFFER"
  • iFixit has goodies including its iPhone 4S Transparent Rear Glass Panel on sale for 30 bucks (normally over $50) through Cyber Monday. You'll also be able to snag replacement batterys for the iPhone 3G, 3GS and 4 for 5 bucks off the regular price! Check out the site for even more discounts.

UK boards the Acer Liquid Express, Tom Hanks not embedded with NFC

Posted: 28 Nov 2011 02:12 PM PST

Because phones, like fashion, must always look to the future, Acer's hitching its ride to NFC. The oft-talked about, but still sparsely used tech gets top-billing here as the company refreshes its Liquid line for T-Mobile UK and Orange UK with the Express. It's a solidly mid-range Gingerbread affair, packing an 800MHz Qualcomm 7227 processor, Android 2.3 and 5 megapixel shooter into a 3.5-inch package. Okay, so it's not the best of what's around in wireless, but can you really argue with free (on a two-year contract)? We didn't think so. Follow on past the break for the official presser.
Show full PR text
Acer Liquid Express

With embedded NFC technology, available in all UK Orange and T-Mobile stores.


London, 28th November 2011 – Following the launch of the first Acer Liquid smartphones equipped with Android, Acer are now extending their range with a new model - the Acer Liquid Express - the company's first NFC-equipped device.


'As a technology of the future, NFC is a priority for Acer as it can be used for multiple purposes: payment, transport, tickets, loyalty cards, cultural information... and that's without having explored the thousands more applications that will follow.' says Allen Burnes, Vice-President of Acer's THBG division.

Together with Orange UK and T-Mobile UK, Acer promise to make these new services widely accessible thanks to an affordable and easy-to-use smartphone. The Acer Liquid Express offers usage patterns now previously associated by premium smartphones.

Allen Burnes adds 'Even if contactless technology has only just started spreading across the UK, it is important for the customer to take into account future need when choosing a new model. In a few months' time quite a number of smartphone users, whose new smartphones don't include NFC functionality, will have to change their mobile in order to benefit from this new technology.'

The contactless technology embedded in the Liquid Express allows it to adapt to its users' current and future needs reading NFC tags or targets, identification, virtualisation of loyalty or payment cards; all of this according to the tightest security standards and approved by a consortium of expert manufacturers, granting NFC Forum 2 and Cityzi certifications to the Acer Liquid Express.

In addition to the NFC functionality, the Liquid Express is equipped with a large 3'5 screen, a Qualcomm 7227 processor that runs at 800MHz, a 5 MP camera with LED flash and Android 2.3 (Gingerbread).

Available in Titanium, the Acer Liquid Express marks the general implementation of NFC technology in Acer smartphones. Starting with this model, all of the forthcoming brand's Android smartphones will be equipped with this up and coming technology.

Price and availability

The Acer Liquid Express is available FREE with both a £15.32 per month T-Mobile UK 24 months contract and a £20.50 per month Orange UK 24 months contract.


To learn more about Acer Liquid Express and the NFC technology implementation, please visit www.acer.co.uk/liquidexpress

Must See HDTV (November 28th - December 4th)

Posted: 28 Nov 2011 01:42 PM PST

Welcome to the midseason break -- while many shows are either already on hiatus or getting ready for one, cable favorites like The Closer and Rizzoli & Isles are just getting restarted. Of course, given the season that's not all there is to watch with a slew of movie debuts and one-off events like the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show and Grammy nominations taking place as well. Check below for the highlights this week, followed after the break by our weekly listings of what to look out for in TV, Blu-ray and videogames.

Cave of Forgotten Dreams
This week is a good one for 3D fans, in theaters Martin Scorsese's Hugo is racking up the acclaims for its integration of effects and story, while at home viewers can finally experience Werner Herzog's trek into the Chauvet Caves of South France, exposing the oldest known human drawings. The entire documentary is filmed in 3D to help bring the shape and depth of the cave paintings alive, and by all accounts it's effective. Since you're probably not on the (very short list) of people who will ever be allowed access to the cave and its delicate relics, this is your best shot at taking a step 35,000 years into the past at an entirely different era of humankind. Check out the trailer after the break, but after seeing this one in theaters earlier this year we can definitely say 3D is the only way to watch.
(November 29th, $18.99 on Amazon)

College Football
The last week of the college football season means everything comes down to these games to decide conference championships and who goes on to which bowl games. From the Big East being decided by the result of West Virginia vs. South Florida, to a couple of brand new conference championship games for the Pac-12 and Big Ten, to the always classic ACC and SEC football championships, and even a few rivalry games like Baylor/Texas and Oklahoma/Oklahoma State -- it's all here. No matter which team you root for there will be something at stake this weekend, so arrange your schedule accordingly.

The Take
After jumping into the original programming game earlier this year with Moby Dick, Encore is ready to push The Take, a British crime drama. Tom Hardy (Inception, Bronson, The Dark Knight Rises) stars as Freddie Jackson, an ex-con fresh out of prison who is trying to take over London's underworld with the help of the rest of his similarly crooked family. As you can tell by the name, the theme here is that everyone and everything is available for a price, we're willing to spend an hour of our time and see if this is a series worth watching thanks to its strong cast, check out a quick trailer embedded after the break.
(December 2nd, Encore, 9PM)




Blu-ray & Games
  • Cave of Forgotten Dreams (3D)
  • 30 Minutes or Less
  • Our Idiot Brother
  • Another Earth
  • Tucker & Dale vs. Evil
  • The Smurfs (3D)
  • The Art of Getting By
  • Smallville: The Complete Tenth Season
  • Sly Cooper Trilogy (PS3)

Monday

  • The Closer (winter premiere), TNT, 9PM
  • Rizzoli & Isles (winter premiere), TNT, 10PM
  • House (fall finale), Fox, 9PM
  • Bored To Death (season finale), HBO, 9PM
  • The Sing-Off (season finale), NBC, 8PM
  • Urban Legends (season finale), Syfy, 11, 11:30 & 11:59PM
  • You Deserve It, ABC, 9PM
  • Giants/Saints Monday Night Football, ESPN, 8:30PM
  • Terra Nova, Fox, 8PM
  • WWE Raw, USA, 9PM
  • American Chopper: Senior vs. Junior, Discovery, 9PM
  • Enlightened, HBO, 9:30PM
  • Rock Center with Brian Williams, NBC, 10PM
  • American Guns, Discovery, 10PM

Tuesday

  • Victoria's Secret Fall Fashion Show (special presentation), CBS, 10PM
  • Ringer (fall finale), CW, 9PM
  • Scott Turow's Innocent (special presentation), TNT, 9PM
  • Sons of Anarchy (season finale part 1), FX, 10PM
  • Auction Hunters, Spike TV (season finale), 10PM
  • Last Man Standing, ABC, 8PM
  • Glee, Fox, 8PM
  • 90210, CW, 8PM
  • Man Up!, ABC, 8:30PM
  • New Girl, Fox, 9PM
  • Raising Hope, Fox, 9:30PM
  • Knights of Mayhem, National Geographic, 9PM
  • Sanctuary, Syfy, 10PM
  • Parenthood, NBC, 10PM
  • Covert Affairs, USA, 10PM
  • Flashpoint, Ion, 10PM
  • Bomb Patrol: Afghanistan, G4, 10PM

Wednesday

  • I Hate My Teenage Daughter (series premiere), Fox, 9:30PM
  • Blue Mountain State (season finale), Spike, 11PM
  • Mythbusters (fall finale), Discovery, 9PM
  • Whitechapel (season finale), BBCA, 10PM
  • Christmas in Rockefeller Center 2011 (special presentation), NBC, 8PM
  • Grammy Nominations Concert Live!, (special presentation), CBS, 10PM
  • Ricochet (special presentation), TNT, 9PM
  • West Virginia/South Florida college football, ESPN & ESPN 3D, 7PM
  • Survivor, CBS, 8PM
  • The X-Factor, Fox, 8PM
  • Inside The NFL, Showtime, 9PM
  • Harry's Law, NBC, 9PM
  • Nova, PBS, 9PM
  • Rocket City Rednecks, National Geographic, 9 & 9:30PM
  • Psych, USA, 10PM
  • The Real World, MTV, 10PM
  • Law & Order SVU, NBC, 10PM
  • The Ultimate Fighter, Spike, 10PM
  • American Horror Story, FX, 10PM

Thursday

  • Weed Wars (series premiere), Discovery, 10PM
  • Big Shrimpin', History, 10PM
  • Eagles/Seahawks Thursday Night Football, NFL Network, 8PM
  • Community, NBC, 8PM
  • The X-Factor, Fox, 8PM
  • Parks & Recreation, NBC, 8:30PM
  • Bones, Fox, 9PM
  • The Office, NBC, 9PM
  • Less Than Kind, DirecTV 101, 9PM
  • Call Me Fitz, DirecTV 101, 9:30PM
  • Whitney, NBC, 9:30PM
  • Burn Notice, USA, 10PM
  • Prime Suspect, NBC, 10PM
  • It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia, FX, 10PM
  • Beavis & Butt-head, MTV, 10PM
  • Good Vibes, MTV, 10:30PM
  • The League, FX, 10:30PM
  • Gigolos, Showtime, 11PM

Friday

  • Pac-12 College Football Championship: Oregon/UCLA, Fox, 7:30PM
  • MAC College Football Championship: Northern Illinois/Ohio, ESPN2, 6PM
  • The Take (part 1 of 4, series premiere), Encore, 9PM
  • Game of Your Life (special presentation), NBC, 8PM
  • Nikita (fall finale), CW, 8PM
  • Supernatural (fall finale), CW, 9PM
  • Star Wars: The Clone Wars, Cartoon Network, 8PM
  • House of Payne, TBS, 9 & 9:30PM
  • Sanctuary, Syfy, 10PM
  • Onion News Network, IFC, 10PM
  • Boss, Starz, 10PM
  • X-Men Anime, G4, 11PM

Saturday

  • The Ultimate Fighter (season finale), Spike, 8PM
  • Conference USA College Football Championship Game: Southern Miss/Houston, ABC, 11AM
  • SEC College Football Championship Game: Georgia/LSU, CBS, 3PM
  • ACC College Football Championship: Clemson/Virginia Tech, ESPN & ESPN 3D, 7PM
  • Big Ten College Football Championship: Michigan State/Wisconsin, Fox, 7:30PM
  • Oklahoma/Oklahoma State college football, ABC, 7PM
  • Texas/Baylor college football, ESPN, 2:30PM
  • Primeval, BBCA, 9PM
  • Saturday Night Live: Steve Buscemi / The Black Keys, NBC, 11:30PM

Sunday

  • Neverland (part 1 of 2), Syfy, 9PM
  • Hung (season finale), HBO, 10PM
  • Around The World In 80 Ways (season finale), History, 11PM
  • Lions/Saints football, NBC, 8:15PM
  • 60 Minutes, CBS, 7PM
  • The Cleveland Show, Fox, 7:30PM
  • The Simpsons, Fox, 8PM
  • Once Upon A Time, ABC, 8PM
  • The Amazing Race, CBS, 8PM
  • Allen Gregory, Fox, 8:30PM
  • Family Guy, Fox, 9PM
  • Leverage, TNT, 9PM
  • Dexter, Showtime, 9PM
  • Desperate Housewives, ABC, 9PM
  • The Good Wife, CBS, 9PM
  • Boardwalk Empire, HBO, 9PM
  • The Cleveland Show, Fox, 9:30PM
  • Hell on Wheels, AMC, 10PM
  • Homeland, Showtime, 10PM
  • CSI: Miami, CBS, 10PM
  • Pan Am, ABC, 10PM
at 12:46 PM

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