Sponsored
Engadget News |
- AMD updates A-Series APUs, gives laptop Llanos modest spec bumps
- Renault debuts R-Link, an in-dash Android system with app market
- AMD Radeon HD 6000 cards receive VESA DisplayPort 1.2 certification, merit badges
- Windows Defender beta gains 'offline' functionality, can run sans-OS
- HP: webOS to live on through open source, hardware lineup still dead (for now)
- Windows Store fine print puts consumers first
- Dutch officials contemplate barring KPN, T-Mobile and Vodafone from spectrum auction
- Engadget's smartphone buyer's guide: winter 2011 edition
- Apple just arrived at Grand Central Terminal, we hop aboard (video)
- Engadget Podcast 267 - 12.09.2011
- Android Market's ten-cent promo moves into day 4 with Need for Speed Shift, Shazam Encore and eight more
- Untethered jailbreak for iOS 5.0 showcased on YouTube (video)
- FCC Fridays: December 9, 2011
- Super Talent intros enthusiast-level TerraNova SSDs
- Engadget Distro Issue 17 takes a bite out of Android Ice Cream Sandwich -- get your om nom on!
- Nokia Lumia 710 now shipping, global rollout slated for 'coming weeks'
- Ads will possess your phone using subliminal sound waves
- Motorola wins injunction against Apple Sales International in German patent dispute (update: Apple appeals)
- TomTom looks to shed ten-percent of workforce in restructuring effort
- Fall Xbox 360 Dashboard update brings WTV file support, but don't get too excited
- LG and Prada invites us to see its 2012 collection in London, we dust off the tux
- Samsung Galaxy Note vs. Dell Streak 5... fight!
- Spotify Radio feature turns into an app, offers Pandora-like stations with unlimited skips
- Wacom tablet leaves sketchy trails at the FCC, possibly a new Intuos4 (updated)
- Watson now hunting down patent trolls, plans Ken Jennings' elaborate demise
- Nintendo, Boingo bring free airport WiFi to 3DS, commuter rage to slightly dip
- Panasonic reveals 4.3-inch OLED smartphone with global ambitions, no name
- Motorola's Droid Xyboard tablets go up for sale at Verizon, prices start at $430 (update: in stores on December 12th)
- Smart to unveil tiny For-US electric pickup at North American International Auto Show
- JVC's Procision, Reference Series projectors now available, replete with '4K precision'
- Researcher brings modified Touchpad into the MRI room, breakthrough ensues
- Tamron unveils 18-200mm E-mount lens, ups your NEX glass selections
- Qualcomm's two new 1GHz dual-core chipsets make S1-to-S4 migration easier for manufacturers (updated)
- Clues point to Lumia 710 as the mystery Nokia handset on T-Mobile
- AT&T's 4G LTE network is live in San Francisco
- SPHERE 2 mouse turns the premium dial up to platinum, can hide in perfumeries
- Australian High Court just says no to Apple appeal, Samsung breathes a sigh of relief
- White Nokia N9 descends from Lintukoto, goes on sale in Finland
- High school senior kills cancer with nanotech, still can't legally drink
- Leica rehashes Panasonic's Lumix Fz150 as the V-LUX 3, because 'image' matters
| AMD updates A-Series APUs, gives laptop Llanos modest spec bumps Posted: 09 Dec 2011 10:57 AM PST  |
| Renault debuts R-Link, an in-dash Android system with app market Posted: 09 Dec 2011 10:38 AM PST  R-Link, the integrated, connected tablet As a partner of the LeWeb'11 exhibition, Europe's number one showcase for digital entrepreneurs, Renault has chosen the Parisian show to reveal R-LINK, the tactile, integrated, connected tablet that is poised to equip its forthcoming models. R-LINK will provide future Renault vehicles with affordable, intuitive multimedia connectivity, both with the outside world and with its users. R-LINK is a scalable tablet thanks to the input of application developers who will progressively upgrade its content. Renault will profit from the LeWeb'11 show to invite app developers to play a part in this adventure thanks to the establishment of a partnership with Paris Incubateur. R-LINK, AN INTEGRATED, CONNECTED, MULTIMEDIA SYSTEM THOUGHT THROUGH FOR IN-VEHICLE USE To enable drivers to control its functions without taking their eyes off the road, R-LINK features a large 18cm tactile display, steering wheel-mounted controls and speech recognition. R-LINK also delivers comprehensive connectivity for automotive services and applications in an AppStore (R-LINK Store). R-LINK is a straightforward, user-friendly interface that covers all the car's functions and data. The menu provides access to the world of in-car multimedia, GPS TomTom LIVE navigation, the R-LINK Store, etc. Users will also be able to customize both their homepage and access to their favorite applications. At the time of its release, R-LINK Store will pack more than 50 existing useful and community smartphone applications adapted to use on the move. They will be downloadable directly to the tablet inside the car or via the My Renault account. R-LINK will equip ZOE and New Clio. In keeping with its determination to make access to innovations an affordable reality for all, R-LINK will be available for all forthcoming Renault models at an unrivaled low price. After becoming the first brand to propose steering wheel-mounted fingertip remote audio controls and in-car navigation, after making the hands-free card, high-res displays and GPS navigation (Carminat TomTom for €490) affordable, readily available features, and after launching connected navigation (Carminat TomTom LIVE), Renault continues to innovate with R-LINK. RENAULT LAUNCHES A CAMPAIGN TO BRING DEVELOPERS ON-BOARD Like Renault, developers and start-up businesses are actively exploring technologies and services that address the problems associated with automotive mobility (navigation aids, infomobility applications, in-car entertainment, etc.). Renault and Laboratoire Paris Région Innovation wish to encourage the creation of a start-up ecosystem to focus on the issue of mobility-related connected services and TICs. A new start-up incubator specializing in this field is due to be inaugurated in March 2012. Renault is looking to build relationships with young, innovative businesses (less than four years' existence) which are either in the process of developing or which have already released their first product or service. The objective of these partnerships is to enable such companies to complete their research in ideal conditions (private offices, personalized individual guidance, finance, etc.). The forms and list of documents it is necessary to provide when applying to be taken on-board by the 'Connected Services and TIC for Mobility' incubator can be downloaded from www.paris.fr/pro until January 31, 2012. |
| AMD Radeon HD 6000 cards receive VESA DisplayPort 1.2 certification, merit badges Posted: 09 Dec 2011 10:17 AM PST  AMD Radeon™ HD 6000 Series First to Achieve DisplayPort® 1.2 Source Certification Select AMD Radeon HD 6000 Series Graphics Products Achieve DisplayPort 1.2 Certification with Fast HBR2 Data Transfer Rate NEWARK, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA®) today announced that select AMD Radeon™ HD 6000 series graphics products, including the AMD Radeon HD 6990, the world's fastest graphics card, are the first source devices to achieve DisplayPort® Version 1.2 certification. AMD received certification from Granite River Labs, a Santa Clara, California-based VESA DisplayPort Authorized Test Center (ATC), for support of DisplayPort's new 5.4Gbps (gigabits-per-second) HBR2 (High Bit Rate 2) data link rate. These same AMD Radeon HD 6000 graphics products also include additional features from the DisplayPort 1.2 standard, such as multi-stream transport (MST) and Full High Definition (HD) 3D stereoscopic display support. "Achieving DisplayPort 1.2 Source device certification is an important milestone for us" "Achieving DisplayPort 1.2 Source device certification is an important milestone for us," said David Cummings, director, Graphics Technical Marketing, AMD. "With DisplayPort, we are able to go beyond offering enthusiast gamers faster performance and advanced image quality features. Depending on the GPU model, we can now offer dozens of multi-monitor configuration options up to and including six simultaneous displays, flexibility in display selection, and new DisplayPort audio features, creating an ultra-immersive visual environment for the ultimate gaming experience." By doubling the maximum data transfer rate to 21.6Gbps, the HBR2 link rate offered by VESA's DisplayPort Version 1.2 standard significantly enhances display and audio performance. This includes increased display resolution, color depths and refresh rates, improved support for Full HD 3D stereoscopic displays, and with MST, better support for multiple monitors connected to a single DisplayPort receptacle. These features make DisplayPort the best choice for high performance PC gaming, prompting increased demand for DisplayPort 1.2 certified products. "As we continue to expand the capabilities of the DisplayPort standard and add benefits for the end user, we are simultaneously increasing the value of device certification for our members," said Bill Lempesis, executive director of VESA. "We look forward to the support and promotion of more certified devices while encouraging others to participate in the compliance program." DisplayPort 1.2 certification testing is available through VESA's seven certified third-party test houses in Asia and the United States, including Allion Test Labs in Beaverton, Ore., Shenzhen, China, and Taipei, Taiwan; Cable Assemblies and Connector Labs ETC in Taoyuan Hsien, Taiwan; CESI Technology Company Ltd. in Beijing; Granite River Labs; and Telecommunications Technology Association (TTA) in Korea. Once submitted for certification testing, sink and source devices must pass a series of tests to prove compliance with the DisplayPort Version 1.2 standard as outlined in several test documents that include VESA's PHY Layer Compliance Test Specification (CTS), Link Layer CTS, and EDID CTS. "Being part of the first DisplayPort 1.2 Source device certification is a significant milestone for us," said Mike Engbretson, chief technology engineer of Granite River Labs. "We're thrilled to be at the epicenter of increasing momentum for DisplayPort 1.2 certification in Silicon Valley. By providing a full suite of DisplayPort product testing, we're aiding in the adoption of DisplayPort worldwide. We will continue to contribute to the compliance testing program for DisplayPort 1.2 as it gains more and more traction as an industry standard." For more information about DisplayPort, or the standard, please visit http://www.displayport.org. For more information about VESA, please visit http://www.vesa.org/ or find us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VESADisplayPort. About VESA: The Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA) is an international, non-profit standards association, representing a global network of hardware, software, PC, display, and component manufacturers committed to developing and promoting the electronics industry. VESA's established track record of creating and supporting simple, universal, and cross-product solutions for today's video and electronics industry, such as DisplayPort, provides consumers with the confidence necessary to explore new technology standards, such as multi-monitor streaming, direct drive capability, and Full HD 3D support without confusion or difficulty. For more information about VESA, visit www.vesa.org. About AMD: AMD (NYSE: AMD) is a semiconductor design innovator leading the next era of vivid digital experiences with its groundbreaking AMD Fusion Accelerated Processing Units (APUs) that power a wide range of computing devices. AMD's server computing products are focused on driving industry-leading cloud computing and virtualization environments. AMD's superior graphics technologies are found in a variety of solutions ranging from game consoles, PCs to supercomputers. For more information, visit http://www.amd.com. About Granite River Labs: Granite River Labs (GRL) provides a range of Engineering Services to help customers adopt High Speed Connectivity technologies from the IC to System level, including compliance testing, debugging, characterization, Signal/Power Integrity modeling & simulation, stress testing, benchmarking, and interoperability. An Authorized Test Center for DisplayPort, ThunderBolt, and SATA, GRL has deep expertise in a wide range of technologies including HDMI, MHL, PCIe Gen3, USB 3.0, DDR, and 10G Ethernet. GRL's test facilities are conveniently located in Silicon Valley, Taiwan (Hsinchu & Taipei), and near Stuttgart, Germany. |
| Windows Defender beta gains 'offline' functionality, can run sans-OS Posted: 09 Dec 2011 09:56 AM PST  |
| HP: webOS to live on through open source, hardware lineup still dead (for now) Posted: 09 Dec 2011 09:35 AM PST  When HP abruptly announced it was discontinuing the TouchPad and ceasing work on any future devices running webOS, we took that to mean the underdog operating system had died a premature death. But when the company ousted bumbling CEO Leo Apotheker and replaced him with Meg Whitman, we had to wonder if webOS might have some life in it yet. Well, the company just came back with a final verdict: the company will continue to develop webOS, as promised, but with the help of the open source community. In other words, webOS as a platform will live on, and developers both inside HP and out will spruce up the OS for interested OEMs (whoever they may be), along with people who already own webOS devices. Says Sam Greenblatt, CTO of the outfit's advanced technologies division: "We looked at all the various options we have on the table. We think this option is the best for the tech industry and HP." Still, if you were hoping Whitman would resurrect the TouchPad and Pre 3 beyond just another fire sale, we hate to be the bearer of disappointing news. The bottom line: HP's webOS hardware lineup is still dead -- for now, at least. Greenblatt emphasized that HP might later choose to build devices running webOS, the same way any other OEM would evaluate any other operating system. In an interview, company representatives were also quick to say that with the help of developers outside HP, webOS could become a more attractive choice for devices other than phones and tablets (printers, anyone?). Still, though Greenblatt says there has been a "great deal" of interest from companies eyeing the software, it remains unclear which manufactures, if any, will decide to give the OS a more immediate home. HP to Contribute webOS to Open Source |
| Windows Store fine print puts consumers first Posted: 09 Dec 2011 09:10 AM PST  Digging into the Windows Store fine print reveals Microsoft's "consumer first" policy for the metro-style apps for next year's operating system. The company wants developers to make every app fully touch compatible, with every gesture working the same way as it does in Windows 8. It'll have to cater for every CPU architecture as well (or face having to tailor multiple editions) since users can install it on up to five machines. Video downloads are capped at 256Kb/s and audio at 64Kb/s to prevent apps maxing out the data caps on your plan -- if it wants any more, it'll have to politely ask for your permission. The only thing the company isn't offering to users is a returns policy, (except in countries where it's legally obligated to) but we can't have it all our own way, eh? |
| Dutch officials contemplate barring KPN, T-Mobile and Vodafone from spectrum auction Posted: 09 Dec 2011 08:47 AM PST  Now, Dutch lawmakers and the country's Minister of Economic Affairs must come to a decision about the auction that's set to take place in the spring of 2012 -- which is likely to be well in advance of any final report from the NMa. One option tossed around has been to postpone the auction, though, as lawmakers point out, this could hinder the development in the mobile space and further limit competition. Alternately, had any of the named companies actually profited from the alleged collusion, there's a risk that these monies could be used to purchase additional spectrum and further extend their dominance. Those discussing the matter hope to move quickly, though it certainly seems difficult to make any decision of this magnitude lightly. |
| Engadget's smartphone buyer's guide: winter 2011 edition Posted: 09 Dec 2011 08:00 AM PST  No doubt, you've already had an opportunity to review our holiday gift guide for 2011. The smartphone buyer's guide is a bit different. Here, we examine the variety of options from each carrier, large and small, along with its most solid alternatives. Those insistent upon QWERTY keyboards will find each provider's pick of the litter, and we also select a high quality budget offering with $80 as the absolute ceiling. Compared to our previous buyer's guide, Samsung is lighting up the scoreboard more than ever -- largely in part to the Galaxy S II, but that isn't keeping other manufacturers from pushing back. The past 12 months have shown amazing development in the smartphone arena, so join us after the break as we round up the most exciting options of the year. AT&T With the Skyrocket, AT&T has taken Samsung's wildly popular Galaxy S II platform and added support for the carrier's nascent -- and quite speedy -- LTE network. In the process, it also bumped up the screen size to 4.5-inches, just like its brethren on Sprint and T-Mobile. With little other meaningful differentiation, we're inclined to recommend the Skyrocket over its Galaxy S II ($200) forebear. If network speed or the modest display increase aren't important, you can certainly feel safe with the standard model and save $50 in the process. Devotees of iOS will be glad to know that Apple's claim is correct: the iPhone 4S ($200 - $400) is easily the best iPhone yet. Although, even with its spectacular camera and Siri integration, we can't help but feel that it's falling behind the curve. Still, if you live and die with the Cupertino crew, we feel that AT&T's iPhone is your best option as it delivers HSPA+ support and allows you to talk and surf the web simultaneously -- unlike its CDMA counterparts found on Sprint and Verizon. Likewise, the HTC Titan ($200) is an extremely impressive handset with a large display that makes typing a breeze, and it packs an excellent camera to boot. As it stands, Windows Phone enthusiasts won't find a more compelling option on any carrier. If a keyboard is what you're after ... The Captivate Glide is a new -- and very welcome -- QWERTY addition to AT&T's lineup, which easily replaces the Crossover (free) as the network's best Android device with a physical keyboard. We've yet to properly review the handset, although our early impressions have been mostly positive. We found its keyboard to be rather competent, although its price tag may deter some. In this case, the BlackBerry Torch 9810 ($50) is an attractive alternative, which features excellent voice quality and battery life -- although, some users may find frustration with its comparatively limited app selection. If you're looking to squeeze every penny... Sure, it's not the first time we've seen dual-cores go for next to nothing, but picking up the Atrix 4G for a single round Lincoln is a fantastic deal. This powerhouse formerly stood as one of AT&T's premiere handsets, and with good reason -- it features a speedy Tegra 2 SoC and an excellent qHD display. We think you'll be hard-pressed to find more for so little, but the deal won't last, so you might want to jump on this one. We're also happy to see that the Infuse 4G ($50) is now extremely affordable, and some will definitely appreciate its massive 4.5-inch display and gorgeous camera. Whichever you prefer, you'll certainly score one for the bank account. Sprint Dare we say it, but Sprint's changes to the Galaxy S II resulted in a device that's even more satisfying than the original. In fact, the Epic 4G Touch may be our favorite of the bunch. We're really digging its gorgeous 4.5-inch display, along with the extra battery life and that handy notification light. It retains the speedy Exynos that we love, and the pictures are excellent. The only omission that may dissuade some buyers is the lack of international support. If this is on your list of "must-haves," then the Photon 4G ($200) remains an extremely good candidate, which offers an unlocked SIM slot for roaming abroad. Naturally, this also presents the iPhone 4S ($200 - $400) as an option, although in this case, we still prefer the faster HSPA+ speeds that you'll enjoy on AT&T's network. If a keyboard is what you're after ... We'll be very frank by saying that Sprint should've replaced its venerable Epic 4G by now -- and no, the Transform Ultra ($80) simply isn't going to cut it. As a member of the original Galaxy S family, the Epic 4G has been surpassed by more compelling options from other providers. Even worse, the $100 price now feels somewhat steep. Yes, it was once an excellent device, but this is by yesterday's standards. Now, it's a relatively ho-hum offering that you should consider only as a last resort. Our advice? If you really need a keyboard, either wait for Sprint to get off its laurels or jump ship. If you're looking to squeeze every penny... We're sad to report that Sprint has increased the price of the Nexus S 4G -- our former budget pick -- to a full $100, which prohibits its consideration for this category. Fortunately, the Conquer 4G is now available online for free, and surprisingly, it runs pure Android (save for a few customizations from Hesse and crew). While nothing about the phone stands out as particularly high-end, it's easily the best value on the Now Network. All in all, it's a rather solid pick with a price that'll stir at least a modicum of excitement. T-Mobile We remain infatuated by the Galaxy S II, and yes, that holds true for T-Mobile as well. Sure, it's not quite as speedy as its siblings, but the phone still offers excellent performance combined with a beautiful display and top-notch camera. Given its status as a 42.2Mbps HSPA+ device, it's an extremely competent performer on T-Mobile's AWS network. Sadly, battery life wasn't quite as good on this variant, although it's still very sufficient. If you're looking for the best that the Galaxy S II lineup has to offer, however, we recommend giving the Skyrocket and Epic 4G Touch a serious consideration. If a keyboard is what you're after ... The QWERTY landscape changed a bit at T-Mobile after its launch of the myTouch Q ($80), but certainly not enough to unseat the myTouch 4G Slide. Y'all are aware that it's not the most desirable handset we've come across, which is hindered by its slower than expected performance, mushy keyboard and subpar battery life. When compared to the myTouch Q, however, it's redeemed by the higher-res WVGA display and excellent camera that's accompanied by a dedicated two-stage shutter button. If the uninspired keyboard on the myTouch 4G Slide is a deal-breaker for you, feel free to check out the BlackBerry Torch 9810 ($250) and Bold 9900 ($300) -- although we feel both options are priced too high to warrant a whole-hearted recommendation. If you're looking to squeeze every penny... Yes please, and thank you. T-Mobile is running a special online promotion right now where the Radar 4G can be yours for absolutely nothing. If you're not drooling yet, you most definitely should be. Folks, this is one of the finest Windows Phone handsets under the sun today. We were particularly happy with its vibrant display, quality camera and admirable battery life. What's more, it feels excellent to hold and the build quality is rather superb. If you absolutely insist on an Android phone, you'll be glad to know that the myTouch ($80) has significantly stepped up T-Mobile's value offering, which delivers a 1GHz CPU, a 3.8-inch display and HSPA+ connectivity. We're holding back from an unqualified recommendation, however, as we've yet to review the handset. Verizon Wireless Although the Galaxy Nexus has yet to arrive at Verizon, it's easy to quantify why this smartphone is the most desirable of the season. As Google's latest halo device, the phone serves as the launchpad for Android 4.0, otherwise known as Ice Cream Sandwich. Yes, the Galaxy Nexus is large, but it's also well-proportioned and houses a massive 720p display that's simply phenomenal. Users won't be at a loss for speed, either, as the phone struts a dual-core 1.2GHz CPU and taps into Verizon's LTE network. While we only recently scored a hands-on with this variant, it promises to knock one out of the ballpark on its road to glory -- absent any unforeseen circumstances, anyway. If a keyboard is what you're after ... In our last buyer's guide, we were unable to recommend the Droid 3 based on its poor software implementation and frustrating glitches. Fortunately, those problems have since been resolved with Motorola's most recent round of updates. Now, users may experience this QWERTY slider as the manufacturer intended, which features an excellent keyboard and a handsome qHD display. It can be a bit unwieldy for some, however, and the Bold 9930 ($200) remains a fine option for these individuals, which provides superior battery life and a very attractive (though comparatively small) display. If you're looking to squeeze every penny... Verizon Wireless hasn't typically been the friendliest network to value-conscious consumers, but fortunately, its recently announced Illusion just barely makes the cut. What's essentially the Conquer 4G (albeit, without 4G and with TouchWiz), this phone isn't likely to turn heads, but its 1GHz CPU delivers just enough oomph that budget users won't feel completely left behind. Still, unless you rely on Verizon for coverage, the same phone can be found for free on Sprint with added WiMAX support. So, why not? Boost Mobile Boost Mobile recently launched the Warp as its flagship phone and, what can we say, we like nice things. For starters, the device holds the distinction of being the carrier's sole handset with a WVGA display, which just so happens to be implemented in a roomy 4.3-inch screen. Also, thanks to its 1GHz processor and near-stock implementation of Gingerbread, our interactions with the phone felt quite nimble. And then there's the price. It's often difficult to find a smartphone that offers so much for so little in the prepaid world, and the Warp is one of the rare few that delivers. Sure, some may be tempted by the name recognition of the Transform Ultra ($230), but unless you need a physical keyboard, its low-resolution HVGA display will leave most users begging for more headroom. C Spire When Cellular South renamed itself C Spire Wireless, few could've imagined that the regional carrier would be adding one of the year's hottest and most sought after devices to its mix. This is amazing news for the provider's 900,000 customers, which primarily reside in Mississippi, Memphis and the Florida panhandle. Make no mistake about it, it's hard to go wrong with the latest iPhone. While we'd love to see more diversity in iOS devices, the iPhone 4S is an admirable refresh that provides an upgraded A5 dual-core CPU, along with a brilliant camera and the excellent Retina Display, which has many manufacturers still playing catch-up nearly 18 months after its arrival. Cincinnati Bell Thanks to Cincinnati Bell's AWS roots, this regional provider is truly a kindred spirit with T-Mobile. As such, it's sporting variants of some incredibly hot phones that were previously available on the Magenta-clad network: specifically, the Sensation ($200) and G2x ($150). Yes, it's a rematch of T-Mobile's former titans, but you know how the battle ends. We tip our hat to the LG's lovely IPS display, excellent camera and stock Android 2.3 implementation. In truth, both devices are quite excellent, and if you're switching to Cincinnati Bell from another carrier, you can pick up either of them for free. Still, we feel that the Sensation's higher-res qHD display simply isn't enough to undermine our love for the G2x. Cricket Cricket's selection of smartphones aren't the most amazing you'll come across, but thanks to its value-driven plans, many customers are willing to forgive the oversight. Leading the pack are the Vitality ($150) and Transfix ($160). Both devices are stunningly similar, save for the Vitality being a member of Cricket's Muve Music lineup and the Transfix adding a physical keyboard to the mix. Which handset you choose will depend on your needs and budget. The Vitality's plan costs $65 per month, which is $10 more than Cricket's standard unlimited offering. Of course, this fee provides access to an all-you-can-eat music subscription service. If you think you'll enjoy the tunes, get the Vitality. Otherwise, direct your mitts toward the Transfix and jam out to all those MP3's you've been hoarding. MetroPCS If this Samsung handset seems familiar, it should. The Admire ($100) shares the same heritage as the Vitality and Transfix, and delivers the best combination of performance and value on MetroPCS. Sure, the Esteem ($350) is certainly more powerful, which provides a large display and LTE connectivity, but we were underwhelmed when the device was reviewed as the Revolution, and its price seems most difficult to swallow. Even the Wildfire S ($180) can't justify its cost when compared to the Admire -- unless you're really in need of an LED flash, anyway. Consider this one a victory by default. US Cellular Folks, this is what we call a no-contest knockout. There's only one phone to consider from US Cellular right now, and it's the Electrify. This handset is essentially a re-branded version of the Photon 4G, which enjoyed a brief time in the sun as Sprint's flagship device. Sure, there's no WiMAX, but the Electrify shines with its excellent performance, pleasing display and quality camera, along with top-notch battery life. Thankfully, it has even retained its world phone capabilities. There's really only one game in town, so even if you have to pinch pennies for a couple of months, get the Electrify and never look back. It's really as simple as that. Virgin Mobile We'd really love to see a few of Sprint's top-tier devices on its value-oriented subsidiary, but that's not to suggest Virgin isn't without some quality handsets up its sleeve. Our current favorite is the Optimus Slider, which we were able to get friendly with during CTIA. Thanks to an 800MHz CPU, this QWERTY slider packs a bit more oomph than the similarly priced Wildfire S ($200), and unlike the Triumph ($300), it doesn't break the bank. If you detest the idea of a physical keyboard, the Optimus V ($130) remains a reliable standby, although we can't help but feel that it's beginning to show its age. Unlocked phones If you're looking for something different -- you know, that's not Android or Samsung -- have we got a choice for you. It's the N9, and dare we say you'll be the only one amongst your friends or family with a phone running MeeGo. The handset itself is one of the most lust-worthy slabs of engineering we've ever come across, which packs a beautiful display and excellent camera. We think you'll be impressed with the battery life, too. What's best, this unlocked phone features pentaband 3G support along with quadband GSM. MeeGo may be going the way of the dinosaur, but you can be sure the N9 will have your back.  The Galaxy Nexus is unlikely to be remembered as quite the game changer as the Galaxy S II, but that's not to deny the phone is an amazing piece of kit in its own right. Leading the charge with Ice Cream Sandwich, the Galaxy Nexus holds special notoriety as the first Android handset to include a pentaband HSPA+ radio. This is especially important for its consideration as an unlocked device, which offers 21Mbps support on AT&T, T-Mobile and through the international 2100 / 900MHz bands. Sure, we're a bit disappointed by its middle-of-the-road camera and lack of support for USB Mass Storage, but that's a mere pittance to overlook when compared to the amount of goodness crammed into this beauty.  The Galaxy Note certainly isn't appropriate for everyone, as its massive size will always come across as a bit polarizing. Also, its lack of 3G support for T-Mobile makes it a bit less versatile than the Galaxy Nexus. Still, we're absolutely enamored by this Samsung, thanks to its chart-topping performance and impressive 5.3-inch display. The excellent battery life and top-notch camera are merely additional bonuses when considering this slab can fill the roles of both a smartphone and tablet. Those in the States can access AT&T's HSPA+ network at 21Mbps, along with the 2100 and 900MHz bands when traveling abroad. As it's not currently available from any of the domestic carriers, the Galaxy Note is a surefire way to turn heads and make onlookers weep with jealousy. Can life get any sweeter than that? Editor's note: There are many outlets that sell unlocked phones, but we recommend including Expansys, Negri Electronics and NewEgg in your search. They've always treated us fairly and we're pretty sure they'll do the same for you. Also, it's worth mentioning that Apple is selling unlocked versions of the iPhone 4S ($650 - $850) for the first time in the United States. Good luck in the hunt, everyone! |
| Apple just arrived at Grand Central Terminal, we hop aboard (video) Posted: 09 Dec 2011 07:36 AM PST  As NYC's gateway to Connecticut, Grand Central is typically incredibly crowded during rush hour, but the enormous sunlight-filled main hall was packed to the brim today with spectators -- eager customers queued up in a hallway out of view, beginning early this morning. The store itself is huge, occupying the entire east balcony and several side rooms, with a large genius bar, training area and accessory alcove at either side. Eager to pop in for a visit? Thumb through the gallery below to step inside, and jump past the break to experience the cacophonous chaos at Grand Central. This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| Engadget Podcast 267 - 12.09.2011 Posted: 09 Dec 2011 07:12 AM PST  Host: Tim Stevens, Brian Heater Guest: Richard Lawler Producer: Trent Wolbe Music: The Edge Of Glory 01:14 - Carrier IQ VP says software poses no threat to user privacy, backs up his argument with metaphor 05:40 - Motorola Xoom 2 review 14:20 - Meizu MX first hands-on! 17:09 - LG DoublePlay review 19:18 - Kobo Vox review 24:00 - Listener questions Hear the podcast Subscribe to the podcast [iTunes] Subscribe to the Podcast directly in iTunes (enhanced AAC). [RSS MP3] Add the Engadget Podcast feed (in MP3) to your RSS aggregator and have the show delivered automatically. [RSS AAC] Add the Engadget Podcast feed (in enhanced AAC) to your RSS aggregator. [Zune] Subscribe to the Podcast directly in the Zune Marketplace Download the podcast LISTEN (MP3) LISTEN (AAC) Contact the podcast Send your questions to @tim_stevens. Leave us a voicemail: (423) 438-3005 (GADGET-3005) E-mail us: podcast at engadget dot com Twitter: @bheater, @tim_stevens, @rjcc This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| Posted: 09 Dec 2011 06:50 AM PST  The Android Market ten-cent promo has moved into Day 4, once again offering up a fresh daily set of apps to celebrate the virtual venue's ten billionth download. As of this writing, yesterday's apps are still on sale ( Note: It appears that at the time of this writing most if not all paid apps are experiencing technical difficulties when downloading -- on either the online Market or the phone -- so if you're having trouble getting one of the ten cent apps, we recommend taking a brief hiatus and coming back to try again a little bit later. Update: The promo page has been updated and it looks like all of the apps are downloading just fine now. Head to the source link to get started. Update 2: So it seems that Google Wallet is having issues staying live today, so it's quite possible that you'll continue to have issues purchasing your apps until the service is fully restored. |
| Untethered jailbreak for iOS 5.0 showcased on YouTube (video) Posted: 09 Dec 2011 06:24 AM PST  [Thanks to everyone who sent this in] |
| Posted: 09 Dec 2011 06:00 AM PST  We here at Engadget Mobile tend to spend Phones
|
| Super Talent intros enthusiast-level TerraNova SSDs Posted: 09 Dec 2011 05:38 AM PST |
| Engadget Distro Issue 17 takes a bite out of Android Ice Cream Sandwich -- get your om nom on! Posted: 09 Dec 2011 05:15 AM PST  Distro Issue 17 PDF Distro on the iTunes App Store Like Distro on Facebook Follow Distro on Twitter This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| Nokia Lumia 710 now shipping, global rollout slated for 'coming weeks' Posted: 09 Dec 2011 04:58 AM PST  It's been a few months coming, but today, Nokia announced that its Lumia 710 handset has finally hit store shelves in Taiwan, ahead of its broader international release. Priced at around €270 (or about $332), the Mango-laced handset will arrive in stores across Singapore, Hong Kong, India and Russia over the next seven days, before expanding to other global markets "over the coming weeks." The 3.7-inch device joins the Lumia 800 as Nokia's latest Windows Phone offering, though it remains to be seen whether or not it'll make its way to T-Mobile anytime soon, as earlier rumors indicated. For more details on the phone, check out Nokia's full press release, after the break. Nokia Lumia 710 now shipping Second Windows Phone smartphone from Nokia reaches stores today Espoo, Finland - Nokia today announced the Nokia Lumia 710 will hit shelves, less than one month after the Nokia Lumia 800 started turning heads. The Nokia Lumia 710 will start selling today in Taiwan alongside the Nokia Lumia 800. The Nokia Lumia 710 will then reach stores in Singapore, Hong Kong, India and Russia in the next seven days and continue its global roll-out over the coming weeks. Estimated retail price is 270 EUR, excluding taxes and subsidies and availability will be via operator partners, retailers and open channels depending on local situation. The colourful, affordable Nokia Lumia 710 was designed to make the Nokia Lumia experience accessible to more people around the world and at launch was widely praised as the best Windows Phone experience at is price point. It combines the powerful social and Internet experience of Windows Phone with the ability to take pictures in almost any conditions and share with friends in seconds, as well as access to thousands of the most popular apps, including exclusive Nokia services. Based on the Windows Phone 7.5 Mango release, the Nokia Lumia 710 smartphone is designed to appeal to people with lively social lives, who want an easy way to enjoy all the benefits of Windows Phone and access to signature Nokia experiences: People Hub in Windows Phone displays all call, text, email and social network interactions with any individual contact in an integrated view, with the ability to group contacts and pin favourite groups and individuals to the start screen for live updates and easy access to the people who matter most. Faster, easier Web browsing experience with Internet Explorer 9 and one-touch Bing search. Nokia Drive delivers a full-fledged personal navigation device (PND) with free, turn-by-turn navigation and dedicated in-car-user-interface. Nokia Music introduces MixRadio, a free, global, mobile music-streaming application that delivers 100s of channels of locally-relevant music. Nokia Lumia users will also gain the ability to create personalized channels from a global catalogue of millions of tracks. Also integrated in Nokia Music is Gigfinder, providing the ability to search for live local music for a complete end-to-end music experience and the ability to share discoveries on social networks and buy concert tickets. With the 5MP camera, anyone can take pictures and share on social networks in seconds, even when the phone is locked. The Nokia Lumia 710 can be personalized with a range of colours, including white and black front finish and a choice of five inter-changeable back-covers available to purchase separately. Also available to purchase separately are a range of complementary audio accessories co-designed and co-developed with Monster. The in-ear Nokia Purity Stereo Headset by Monster, providing high-performance in-ear style and the on-ear Nokia Purity HD Stereo Headset by Monster for the best mobile audio experience. Both products provide a fresh listening experience and are the first output of the exclusive long-term partnership between Nokia and Monster, intended to introduce a range of premium audio accessories to reflect the outstanding quality and bold style of the Lumia range. Product Specifications: Nokia Lumia 710: Designed to be personal and affordable Can be personalized with white or black body design, five vibrant exchangeable back covers (black, white, cyan, fuchsia, and yellow) and thousands of apps Best social networking experience provided by Windows Phone release 7.5 Best Internet browsing experience with Internet Explorer 9 3.7" WVGA TFT, ClearBlack capacitive touch screen with pinch zoom, 800 x 480 pixels and 16 million colours 5 MP camera with auto focus, LED flash, high definition 720p video recording with 30FPS and one-touch image sharing Nokia signature hubs: Nokia Drive, Nokia Music 1.4GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon processor, 512MB program memory, 8GB internal user memory, and up to 7.6 hours of 3G talktime The Nokia Purity HD Stereo Headset by Monster - The ultimate mobile audio experience Iconic on-ear headset from two trusted brands Sleek, lightweight, bold design Advanced Monster driver technologies deliver accurate reproduction of low bass without distortion, clear mids and crisp highs for a pure listening experience Ultra-soft ear cushions for hours of comfortable audio listening Tangle-free cables and Integrated volume and call handling controls Includes premium carrying pouch and two colour-matched audio cables for maximum compatibility with various mobile devices Available in cyan, fuchsia, black, and white The Nokia Purity Stereo Headset by Monster - High performance in-ear style Premium in-ear headset from two trusted brands Stylish noise isolating in-ear design Advanced Monster driver technologies deliver accurate reproduction of low bass without distortion, clear mids and crisp highs for a pure listening experience Tangle-free cables and Integrated volume and call handling controls Includes premium carrying pouch, five pairs of variable sized ear buds, and colour matched cable adapter for maximum compatibility with various mobile devices Available in cyan, fuchsia, black, and white |
| Ads will possess your phone using subliminal sound waves Posted: 09 Dec 2011 04:41 AM PST  |
| Posted: 09 Dec 2011 04:19 AM PST  After issuing a default judgment against Apple last month, Germany's Mannheim Regional Court has now granted a "preliminarily enforceable" injunction against Ireland-based Apple Sales International, on the grounds that its products may violate some of Motorola Mobility's patents. At issue is Motorola's European Patent 1010336 (B1), which covers a "method for performing a countdown function during a mobile-originated transfer for a packet radio system." According to Foss Patents, the court's injunction encompasses the iPhone (3G, 3GS and 4), iPad 3G and iPad2 3G. The ruling also states that Apple can avoid the injunction if it removes the patent-infringing elements from its devices, though it's more likely that Cupertino will appeal to the Karlsruhe Higher Regional Court, in the hopes of obtaining a stay. We've already reached out to Apple for comment, and will update this post as soon as we get more information. Update: And as expected, Apple intends to appeal the ruling which, if enforced, would only apply to future shipments. So grab that existing stock while you can. |
| TomTom looks to shed ten-percent of workforce in restructuring effort Posted: 09 Dec 2011 04:02 AM PST  |
| Fall Xbox 360 Dashboard update brings WTV file support, but don't get too excited Posted: 09 Dec 2011 03:21 AM PST  |
| LG and Prada invites us to see its 2012 collection in London, we dust off the tux Posted: 09 Dec 2011 03:02 AM PST  |
| Samsung Galaxy Note vs. Dell Streak 5... fight! Posted: 09 Dec 2011 02:17 AM PST Sure, some may have had a good ole laugh at the Streak 5, arriving with enough display real estate to border on tablet territory -- in fact that's what Dell sold it as. Fast forward a year, and it looks like that weighty slab of phone -- or tiny tablet, depending on your interpretation --was simply ahead of its time. Most phone manufacturers are now skating around the five-inch mark, and Samsung even went a little further. With the Galaxy Note recently paying a visit to the FCC, we thought it was time to see how these two barely-phones stacked up against each other. We're leaving the technical specs aside at this point -- you can check the reviews for those -- but we can still line them up and take plenty of photos of the resulting face-off. The full gallery awaits below. |
| Spotify Radio feature turns into an app, offers Pandora-like stations with unlimited skips Posted: 09 Dec 2011 01:53 AM PST  |
| Wacom tablet leaves sketchy trails at the FCC, possibly a new Intuos4 (updated) Posted: 09 Dec 2011 01:43 AM PST  Update: Now the two bigger tablets have made an appearance: the PTK-650 and the PTK-850, which would hypothetically complete this updated Intuos4 range. |
| Watson now hunting down patent trolls, plans Ken Jennings' elaborate demise Posted: 09 Dec 2011 01:20 AM PST  |
| Nintendo, Boingo bring free airport WiFi to 3DS, commuter rage to slightly dip Posted: 09 Dec 2011 12:07 AM PST  Nintendo Extends Free Wi-Fi Service for Nintendo 3DS Users to 42 Boingo Airports in North America LOS ANGELES, Calif. and REDMOND, Wash. – Dec. 8, 2011 – Boingo Wireless, Inc. (NASDAQ: WIFI), the Wi-Fi industry's leading provider of software and services worldwide, today announced an agreement with Nintendo of America Inc. that provides Wi-Fi access to Nintendo 3DS™ owners via 42 of Boingo's North American airports. The agreement enables Nintendo 3DS owners to stay connected when traveling through one of Boingo's managed and operated airport networks – including Chicago O'Hare, New York JFK and Houston George Bush Intercontinental airports. Nintendo 3DS users who bring their devices with them on their travels will be automatically connected for free to participating Boingo hotspots. "As the global leader in airport Wi-Fi, Boingo is an ideal wireless provider for the millions of Nintendo 3DS users who want to stay connected as they travel," said Zach Fountain, Nintendo of America's Director of Strategic Partnerships. "Nintendo 3DS is our most connected device ever, and this agreement will allow people to stay entertained while they're on the go. Whether it's accessing special offers and content, downloading items from the Nintendo eShop, receiving surprise SpotPass content, or automatically receiving 3D videos from the Nintendo Video service, there have never been more reasons to connect." "With the holiday season approaching, more leisure travelers and families with children will fill our airports and have access to our hotspots," Colby Goff, senior vice president of strategy and business development for Boingo Wireless. "Our state-of-the-art networks will provide Nintendo 3DS users with seamless connectivity and fast, reliable service to help them make the most of their travel downtime." Nintendo Zone will become available at participating Boingo hotspots with the next Nintendo 3DS system update, available December 8th, which will offer users a range of new features and enhancements. The Wi-Fi access is available at no additional cost to Nintendo 3DS users. The Nintendo 3DS system, which offers gameplay featuring real 3D graphics without the need for special glasses, includes the SpotPass™ feature, which when enabled, allows the system to detect wireless hotspots or wireless LAN access points and obtain information, game data, free software, videos and more-even when the system is in Sleep Mode. Boingo joins Nintendo's current roster of hotspot partners, who together provide Wi-Fi connectivity for Nintendo 3DS users at more than 29,000 locations across the country. To find a participating location, go to www.nintendo.com/3ds/hotspot-locator. |
| Panasonic reveals 4.3-inch OLED smartphone with global ambitions, no name Posted: 08 Dec 2011 10:58 PM PST  Panasonic to Expand Smartphone Business to European Market Panasonic will expand its mobile phone business into the global market, targeting at nine million units of overseas sales in fiscal year 2016. Tokyo, Japan - Panasonic announced today that it will expand its smartphone business to the European market in March 2012. At the same time, it announced its aim to bring its overseas smartphone sales to nine million units in fiscal year 2016, ending March 31, 2016, using Europe as a stepping stone to the global market. With the mobile phone market rapidly shifting to smartphone usage worldwide and a steady growth expected particularly overseas, Panasonic aims to tap into this growth with its first global model smartphone for the European market in March 2012. The main characteristics of the global model are: 1. An ultra-slim D-shaped design for easy portability 2. Slim bezel with high viewing quality Quarter HD (QHD) 4.3-inch large organic light emitting diode (OLED) screen 3. Waterproof and dustproof for ease of handling Using this as a reference model, Panasonic will expand its lineup, aiming at sales of 1.5 million smartphones in Europe next fiscal year. Furthermore, in fiscal year 2016, Panasonic targets global sales of 15 million units, including nine million in Europe, Asia, China, and the United States and six million in Japan (of which five million are smartphones). The Panasonic Group created the Systems & Communications Company (SNC) in April this year in advance of its reorganization scheduled for January 2012 in order to handle products and services related to system, network and mobile communications. Within this company, Panasonic will maximize its internal resources, including making use of an existing factory in Malaysia. Currently, phones for the Japanese market are manufactured in this factory but now the same factory is also scheduled to manufacture the first global model as announced. Panasonic will continue to expand its product lineup and increase sales in a speedy process by thoroughly utilizing the Group's technological assets and development resources as well as its production and sales sites around the world, thereby strengthening development, production, and sales structure and product competitiveness. |
| Posted: 08 Dec 2011 10:33 PM PST  Motorola's pair of Droid Xyboard tablets has finally gone up for order on Verizon's site this morning, fulfilling the promise that Big Red made earlier this week. The 8.2-inch version is now available with 16GB of storage for $430, or 32GB for $530 (on a two-year contract). The 10.1-incher, meanwhile, is available in three flavors: 16GB, 32GB, and 64GB, for on-contract prices of $530, $630 and $730, respectively. All five Honeycomb models, as previously noted, come laced with LTE functionality, and all five are available now, at the source link below. Update: Verizon has just posted a press release confirming the above report. According to the provider, both tablets will hit Verizon's stores on December 12th. Read it for yourself after the break, or check out some high-resolution images, in the gallery below. [Thanks, Jordan] DROID XYBOARD Tablets Available Today on America's Fastest, Most Reliable 4G Network 12/09/2011 The DROID XYBOARD 10.1 and DROID XYBOARD 8.2 by Motorola are available online starting today at www.verizonwireless.com. Both tablets will be in Verizon Wireless Communications Stores on Monday, Dec. 12. For a limited time only, customers can take advantage of a special promotion and receive $100 off a DROID XYBOARD tablet with the purchase of a DROID RAZR™ by Motorola with a new two-year customer agreement. Lighter than a paperback book and thinner than an AAA battery, the DROID XYBOARD tablets feature Android™ 3.2 Honeycomb, the blazing speeds of Verizon Wireless' 4G LTE network, enterprise-grade security and the power of dual-core 1.2 GHz processors. Both tablets will be upgraded to Android™ 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich. Plus, they are equipped with MotoCast™ for remote access to non DRM-protected music, pictures, videos and documents stored on work or home computers' hard drives. DROID XYBOARD 10.1 and 8.2 customers can soar through the Web at blazing download speeds of 5 to 12 megabits per second (Mbps) and upload speeds of 2 to 5 Mbps within 4G LTE Mobile Broadband coverage areas. Pricing: The DROID XYBOARD 10.1 will be available in three models: 16 GB for $529.99 and 32 GB for $629.99. The 64 GB model will be available online for $729.99. All three with a new two-year customer agreement. The DROID XYBOARD 8.2 will be available in two models: 16 GB for $429.99 and 32 GB for $529.99, both with a new two-year customer agreement. Customers that purchase a DROID XYBOARD tablet will need to subscribe to a Verizon Wireless Mobile Broadband data plan starting at $30 monthly access for 2 GB of data. Customers can visit www.droiddoes.com/xyboard for information about the DROID XYBOARD tablets by Motorola. For more information on Verizon Wireless products and services, visit a Verizon Wireless Communications Store, call 1-800-2 JOIN IN or go to www.verizonwireless.com. |
| Smart to unveil tiny For-US electric pickup at North American International Auto Show Posted: 08 Dec 2011 09:47 PM PST   |
| JVC's Procision, Reference Series projectors now available, replete with '4K precision' Posted: 08 Dec 2011 08:52 PM PST  After making their grand debut at this year's CEDIA Expo, JVC's line of Procision and Reference series projectors have finally begun marching out to market. The manufacturer announced the news this week, confirming that its array of seven new projectors are now available for purchase, with prices ranging from $3,500 to $12,000. All seven devices Update: So, we got a little mixed up by the poorly worded JVC press release, but it looks like only the DLA-X90R, DLA-X70R, DLA-RS65 and DLA-RS55 actually sport the company's e-Shift tech. Now Available, New JVC Projectors That Display Images With 4K Precision Four new THX® 3D Certified models use e-Shift technology to upconvert images to four times the resolution of Full HD New JVC home theater projectors that display 2D HD content with full 4K precision are now shipping. Announced at CEDIA Expo in September, the new models feature JVC's new e-Shift technology capable of projecting images with 3840 x 2160 pixel resolution, four times that of full HD. The upconverting technology is available in four of seven new 3D-enabled projectors that boast a wide range of advancements, including higher native contrast than previous models for levels that remain unmatched by any other home theater projector. The new projectors are the Procision Series DLA-X90R, DLA-X70R and DLA-X30, marketed by JVC's Consumer Electronics Group, and the Reference Series DLA-RS65, DLA-RS55, DLA-RS4800 and DLA-RS45, available through JVC Professional Products Company. JVC's 4K e-Shift technology is featured in the top four models, which are also THX® 3D Certified. All seven new projectors offer other advancements that boost picture quality, improve 3D performance and enhance functionality. Earlier this year NHK Science & Technology Research Laboratories, NHK Engineering Service Inc. and JVC Kenwood Corporation collaborated in the development of a Super High Vision projection system that utilizes e-Shift technology. Now, that technology is available in the DLA-X90R, DLA-X70R, DLA-RS65 and DLA-RS55. Using e-Shift, 2D HD content is upconverted and scaled to a 4K signal (3840 x 2160) and the e-Shift technology displays it at full 4K precision. Compared to a Full HD (1920 x 1080) image, that's twice the horizontal and vertical resolution and four times the number of pixels, or over 8 megapixels. The result is a stunningly detailed image with minimal aliasing artifacts found in standard HD displays. All seven projectors are 3D-enabled and offer several 3D performance and feature enhancements: · 2D-to-3D Converter – Converts 2D program material to 3D using technology derived from JVC's professional 2D-to-3D converter. Included are user adjustments for 3D depth and subtitle geometry correction; · JVC's 3D anamorphic feature combined with an optional anamorphic lens make it possible to enjoy 3D movies in the popular 2:35 scope format; · Compatibility with a wider range of 3D broadcasts, including 1080p/24 and 720p side-by-side formats; · Brighter 3D images than previous models are possible through the use of an improved driver that keeps the shutter on the active shutter 3D glasses open longer, thus allowing more light to enter, while at the same time minimizing cross talk; · A Cross Talk Canceller further reduces cross talk through analysis of the left eye and right eye signals and applying appropriate correction; · A parallax adjustment allows the user to tailor the 3D image effect; · Direct access to 3D formats and settings on the remote control. In addition, the top four models -- DLA-X90R, DLA-X70R, DLA-RS65 and DLA-RS55 – are THX® 3D Certified. During the THX 3D Certification process, more than 400 laboratory tests are conducted, evaluating color accuracy, cross-talk, viewing angles and video processing to ensure the superior out-of-the-box 3D and 2D display performance that home theater enthusiasts demand. Other features shared by these four models include: · ISF certification; · Enhanced installation adjustment, including a new 1/16th pixel shift function to precisely tune convergence via 121 adjustment points (11 vertical x 11 horizontal) and an increased number of screen mode preset positions, up to a maximum of 255; · An upgraded optical engine that further improves black level and native contrast; · 7-Axis Color Management System; · ISF and THX Calibration via corresponding software to allow advanced adjustment by certified ISF calibrators; · Three Xenon lamp color modes that emulate the characteristics of high-end movie projectors. Other enhancements new for all seven 2012 projectors are: · Lens memory function – Three memory settings store custom focus, zoom and horizontal/vertical lens shift position. This allows a constant height display of 4:3, 16:9 and 2:35 scope content without an additional anamorphic lens; · LAN connection that provides enhanced system control and firmware or screen mode updates. To provide enthusiasts with a true measure of performance, JVC has long focused on native contrast and refused to artificially enhance contrast specifications through the use of a dynamic iris. For 2012, native contrast has been improved across the entire line, ensuring that every frame consistently and faithfully reproduces peak whites and deep blacks. The new flagship projectors, the DLA-X90R and DLA-RS65, are built using hand-selected, hand-tested components and provide a 120,000:1 native contrast ratio. For 3D viewing, both models come with two pairs of 3D glasses and a PK-EM1 3D Signal Emitter. Both projectors also have a three-year warranty. The DLA-X70R and DLA-RS55 offer 80,000:1 native contrast ratio, while the DLA-X30 and DLA-RS45 offer 50,000:1 native contrast ratio. All four come with a two-year warranty. The DLA-RS4800 is ISF certified, offers a 55,000:1 native contrast ratio, comes with a three-year warranty, and includes a spare lamp. JVC PK-AG2 Active Shutter 3D Glasses and the PK-EM1 3D Signal Emitter are sold separately. All seven new projectors feature three 0.7" 1920 x 1080 D-ILA devices and are designed around JVC's third generation D-ILA High Dynamic Range optical engine that is optimized to provide exceptional native contrast ratios without a dynamic iris to artificially enhance contrast specifications. A directed light integration system and wire grid polarizer ensures optimum light uniformity and minimal crosstalk in the light path. In the top four models (DLA-X90R, DLA-X70R, DLA-RS65 and DLA-RS55) a combined 16-step lens and lamp aperture adjustment allow the user to optimize the f-number (relative aperture) of the optics system in all steps. The DLA-X30, DLA-RS45 and DLA-RS4800 feature a 16-step lens aperture. The new JVC D-ILA home theater projectors are now available at the following prices: DLA-X90R/DLA-RS65 $11,999 DLA-X70R/DLA-RS55 $7,999 DLA-RS4800 $4,995 DLA-X30/DLA-RS45 $3,499 |
| Researcher brings modified Touchpad into the MRI room, breakthrough ensues Posted: 08 Dec 2011 07:55 PM PST  Yes, the Touchpad is officially dead, but that hasn't stopped Stanford researcher Andrew B. Holbrook from using HP's tablet in a somewhat unexpected setting: the MRI lab. Holbrook, it turns out, has been developing a new, webOS-based system that could make it a lot easier for doctors to conduct interventional MRI procedures. Unlike its diagnostic counterpart, this brand of MRI can only operate within highly magnetic fields, thereby posing a threat to many electronic devices. Holbrook, however, may have found a way around this barrier, thanks to a modified Touchpad. With the help of HP engineers, the researcher stripped his tablet of metallic components, including its speakers and vibration motor, resulting in what the manufacturer calls a "minimally metallic device that could be used almost anywhere within the magnet room." With his Touchpad primed and loaded with apps for data manipulation, Holbrook went on to successfully integrate the device within an MRI system. He also developed a series of apps that allow technicians to monitor and manipulate an MRI procedure on their devices, regardless of whether they're in the magnet room itself, or outside. Holbrook says he's already started applying the same approach to webOS phones, in the hopes of providing doctors and researchers with an even more compact way to keep track of their patients. For more details on the system and future developments, check out the source link below. [Thanks, Mina] |
| Tamron unveils 18-200mm E-mount lens, ups your NEX glass selections Posted: 08 Dec 2011 06:54 PM PST  With a whopping total of eight official lens choices (and two wide angle converters), saying that Sony's NEX cameras could use a few more options in the decent glass category would be putting it lightly. Thankfully, Tamron today announced its latest zoom lens, the BO11 18-200MM F/3.5-6.3 DI III VC, which is made specifically for E-mount shooters. The BO11 weighs in at just over a pound and features a built-in stepping autofocus motor, along with Tamron's moving coil-equipped Vibration Compensation technology -- a must given that Sony's NEX shooters rely on their lenses for image stabilization. While there's no mention of price, the lens will be shipping to dealers starting December 15th and you'll have your choice of either black or silver. Of course, we'd be remiss not to point out the option of lens mount adapters, but if you're set on dedicated solutions you'll the full press release just past the break. TAMRON ANNOUNCES THE 18-200MM F/3.5-6.3 DI III VC (MODEL B011), TAMRON'S FIRST HIGH-POWER ZOOM FOR SONY'S NEX-SERIES MIRRORLESS INTERCHANGEABLE-LENS CAMERAS Innovative lens is lightweight, compact, and features a striking new form factor with two color options to suit the NEX design. December 8, 2011, Commack, New York ― Tamron Co., Ltd., a leading manufacturer of optical equipment, announced the introduction of an exciting new lens, the 18-200mm F/3.5-6.3 Di III VC (Model B011). The new high-power all-in-one zoom lens is designed for the Sony NEX (E-mount) series of interchangeable-lens, lightweight and compact digital cameras. Tamron, the zoom lens pioneer, brings 19 years of high-power zoom lens development technologies to this new product. The lens will begin shipping in the U.S. December 15, 2011. With the 18-200mm Di III VC (Model B011), Tamron has created a high-power all-in-one zoom lens that is compact and lightweight, featuring a 62mm filter and weighing only 16.2 oz., while at the same time delivering superlative image quality. This compact size lets users easily shoot across an extended range - from wide-angle to full telephoto - with just one lens. The focal length coverage is 18-200mm. Converted to the coverage of the 35mm format, this is equivalent to a range of 27mm wide-angle up to 300mm full telephoto. This allows the user to easily take wide-angle shots of expansive landscapes and powerful telephoto images that enlarge the details of distant subjects-all with one lens. In addition, by setting the lens at the telephoto end (200mm) and moving in to the minimum focus distance of 19.6", flower petals, jewelry and other small objects can be shot as expanded close-ups. Product Features Compact and lightweight The high-power 18-200mm all-in-one lens is a lightweight and compact zoom weighing 16.2 oz. with a 62mm filter, designed for exclusive use on the E-mount lens system on Sony's NEX series mirrorless interchangeable-lens cameras. Built-in stabilization enables easy handheld shooting from 18mm wide angle to 200mm full telephoto Equipped with Tamron's acclaimed VC (Vibration Compensation), and thanks to its light weight and compact size, this lens allows easy handheld shooting of sharp images with no camera shake over a wide range of settings, from everyday snapshots to memorable travel scenes. Stepping motor adopted for the AF drive, a construction that accommodates contrast-detection AF and shooting video The AF drive has a stepping motor that is optimal for the Contrast-detection AF system employed by NEX series cameras. This also gives the drive a quieter operation, which is ideal for shooting video in which voices are recorded. In addition, ease of operation is enhanced with the Direct Manual Focus (DMF) function, which allows the user to make fine manual adjustments after initially focusing by AF. Striking appearance worthy of the NEX series design. The metallic lens barrel exterior is available in two colors: black and silver. About the stepping motor The B011's autofocus mechanism uses a stepping motor that is an ideal match for the Contrast-detection AF system used in Sony's NEX series cameras. The stepping motor's actuator allows finely tuned control of angular rotation, and since it drives the focusing mechanism directly without an intermediate reduction gear, it also provides superbly quiet performance. About the VC (Vibration Compensation) system Tamron's VC mechanism employs a three-coil system, whereby three driving coils activate the shake-compensating VC lens group electromagnetically via three steel balls. The VC lens elements are held in place only by contact with the steel balls, achieving smooth movement with little friction. This provides a stable viewfinder image with excellent tracking performance that eliminates the blur from handheld shots for cleaner, crisper shots. About the new VC mechanism (moving coil system) Tamron's conventional VC (Vibration Compensation) unit has a moving magnet system with heavy magnets in the vibration-compensating lens. However, the new VC mechanism adopts a lightweight moving coil system that reduces the load on the drive system. This allows the drive to be operated with smaller coils and magnets, reducing the weight and size for the entire VC unit. In addition, improvements to software and other elements of the VC mechanism used in the 18-200mm Di III VC have made the mechanism even quieter. |
| Posted: 08 Dec 2011 06:07 PM PST  Zach Lutz contributed to this report. Update: We just did a hands-on with one of Qualcomm's new reference designs -- the one we played with had Dianxin OS installed, but we also came across one powered by Aliyun OS. Neither were running smoothly but we've been told they were slightly rushed so we'll give them the benefit of the doubt. Anyhow, enjoy the photos. Qualcomm Brings Snapdragon S4 Processors to High Volume Smartphones and Expands Qualcomm Reference Design Development Platform and Ecosystem Program - Addition of Two New Snapdragon S4 Mobile Processors Compatible with QRD Development Platforms Brings Dual-Core Processing and Integrated 3G Connectivity to High Volume Smartphones - SAN DIEGO, Dec. 8, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Qualcomm Incorporated (NASDAQ: QCOM) today announced two additions to its Snapdragon® S4 class of mobile processors: the MSM8625 and the MSM8225 chipsets. Both chipsets provide dual core CPUs operating up to 1 GHz, Qualcomm's Adreno® 203 GPU and an integrated 3G modem. The MSM8625 and MSM8225 chipsets are designed to be hardware and software compatible with the MSM7x27A and MSM7x25A family of chipsets, giving device manufacturers the ability to seamlessly migrate their existing Snapdragon S1-based designs to S4 dual core-based designs. This capability is particularly useful for device manufacturers to efficiently expand their smartphone product lines with more advanced and more capable 3G smartphone products. To further simplify and improve time-to-launch of cost effective 3G solutions for device manufacturers, Qualcomm also announced the third-generation of its Qualcomm Reference Design (QRD) ecosystem program to enable third party device manufacturers to develop differentiated high volume smartphones with lower development costs and faster time to market. The QRD ecosystem program includes a comprehensive set of software and hardware components that allows third party hardware and software vendors to have their products pre-tested and optimized for the QRD development platform. A pre-tested and optimized platform gives device manufacturers a development platform with the hardware components (memory, sensors, touch panels, cameras, displays, RF, etc.) and software applications and features (browsers, map/navigation, mail, music, instant messaging, fonts and languages, etc.) needed for basic smartphone functionality already in place. This allows device manufacturers to focus their engineering resources on developing value-added features that will help make their high-volume smartphone stand out from the competition. The QRD ecosystem program is designed to help device manufacturers developing products for regions whose networks are evolving from 2G to 3G and high volume smartphones are becoming increasingly popular. The MSM8625 and MSM8225 chipsets will be available on Qualcomm's third generation QRD development platform in the first half of 2012, in addition to being available as standalone chipsets. QRD development platforms based on both the MSM7x27A and MSM7x25A chipsets are currently available. Qualcomm has shipped over 100 million MSM7225 and MSM7227 chipsets, and smartphones based on these chipsets are operating on multiple carrier networks worldwide. "Smartphones present a large business opportunity for many of our customers, which is why we have created the QRD ecosystem program to assist them with developing compelling product designs with competitive differentiation," said Cristiano Amon, senior vice president of product management at Qualcomm. "The program combines all the elements our customers need to get a new smartphone design to launch quickly and cost effectively, from carrier-ready hardware and software to local technical support resources." "As Snapdragon processors power many of today's most popular smartphones, we are working to port a variety of our core applications to the various QRD platforms," said Chengmin Liu, senior executive vice president of Tencent, China's largest integrated internet services provider. "This will offer our customers a strong processing solution to power our applications for future smartphone designs." |
| Clues point to Lumia 710 as the mystery Nokia handset on T-Mobile Posted: 08 Dec 2011 06:02 PM PST  The event: T-Mobile and Nokia are throwing a little bash with a performance by Clap Your Hands Say Yeah. When: the evening of December 14th. The reason: to announce the release of the Lumia 710 Windows Phone. At least, that's the conclusion we're coming to as more clues continue to filter in. Our first clue was discovered by TmoNews, who dug through the Lumia 700's FCC filings and stumbled across a recently-released user manual complete with diagrams of the phone that showed the US carrier's logo plastered just below the screen. Hint number two, an even stronger indication of the phone's impending arrival, is the above image -- leaked to The Verge -- which shows the accessory lineup for the device along with suggested talk tracks. The mystery: solved.  |
| AT&T's 4G LTE network is live in San Francisco Posted: 08 Dec 2011 05:17 PM PST  [Thanks, anonymous] Myriam Joire contributed to this report. This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| SPHERE 2 mouse turns the premium dial up to platinum, can hide in perfumeries Posted: 08 Dec 2011 05:08 PM PST You can't have enough premium spherical mice, can you? OreObject is hoping not, trumpeting its "environmentally sensitive" sequel to the SPHEREtouch. Sure, the SPHERE 2 still packs all sorts of curves, but it's now been crafted from "surgical grade" stainless steel, with four-way navigation chops and a detachable, tangle-free USB cord thrown into the mix. It's the curious scroll wheel at the apex of the sphere that now furnishes the orb with four-way scrolling, and the peripheral will be available in three different finishes: titanium ($185), gold ($290) and platinum ($320). The one percent among us can sniff out the preorder form at the source link below. Or get the butler to do it. |
| Australian High Court just says no to Apple appeal, Samsung breathes a sigh of relief Posted: 08 Dec 2011 04:11 PM PST  [Thanks, Jeremy] |
| White Nokia N9 descends from Lintukoto, goes on sale in Finland Posted: 08 Dec 2011 03:34 PM PST  |
| High school senior kills cancer with nanotech, still can't legally drink Posted: 08 Dec 2011 02:53 PM PST  |
| Leica rehashes Panasonic's Lumix Fz150 as the V-LUX 3, because 'image' matters Posted: 08 Dec 2011 02:22 PM PST  Leave it to Leica to rebrand a recent Panasonic camera, tack on its iconic red dot and then likely charge a premium. Such is the case with its "new" V-Lux 3 digital superzoom, which is essentially its take on the venerable Lumix FZ150 we spent some hands-on time with back in August. To recap, this shooter features a 12.1 megapixel CMOS sensor, Leica's DC Vario-Elmarit 4.5 - 108 mm f/2.8 - 5.2 ASPH lens (that's 25 - 600mm for you full-frame buffs), 1080p AVC HD video recording at up to 60fps with stereo sound and an a77-like 12fps continuous burst mode (albeit using manual focus). On back, you'll find an articulating 3-inch LCD loaded with a 460K pixel resolution and a 0.2-inch EVF, both of which feature nearly 100% frame coverage. While there's no word price, you can surely expect the V-Lux 3 to cost a few Benjamins more than its Lumix counterpart when it hits shelves in January. Hey, at least you can say its a Leica, right? NEW: LEICA V-LUX 3 The versatile all-in-one camera for creative stills and video Solms, Germany (December 8, 2011) - Leica Camera AG presents the Leica V-Lux 3, a new compact digital camera with an extensive range of features. The camera is extremely versatile, making it ideal for almost all photographic situations. For photographers shooting landscapes, architecture, sport, travel, portraits or wildlife, the V-Lux 3 incorporates an enormously flexible lens. The Leica DC Vario-Elmarit 4.5 - 108 mm f/2.8 - 5.2 ASPH. 24-fold super-telephoto zoom lens covers a wide range of focal lengths equivalent to 25–600 mm in 35 mm format. The newly developed 12.1-megapixel CMOS image sensor guarantees exceptional image quality for all applications. A truly universal solution for creative photographers looking for an all-in-one camera, the V-Lux 3 also features extensive broad range of video options and offers video quality comparable to premium-range camcorders. "The Leica V-Lux 3 combines exceptional performance with the handy size of a compact camera. It offers a vast range of focal lengths and covers almost all photographic situations that usually require the use of a camera system. The V-Lux 3 is therefore an attractive alternative to entry-level DSLR cameras with interchangeable lenses," says Peter Kruschewski, Product Manager for Digital Compact Cameras at Leica Camera AG. The Leica V-Lux 3 features a very impressive range of video functions, capturing full-HD video in AVCHD format with 1920 × 1080 pixels and 60 full frames per second. This 1080p60 video format not only guarantees the perfect rendition of fast movement in outstanding detail but is also ideal for conversion to alternative resolutions and refresh rates. The entire 24-fold zoom range is available during video recording while an integrated stereo microphone with an electronic wind noise filter guarantees a crystal-clear soundtrack. One of the fastest consecutive shooting cameras in its class, the V-Lux 3 incorporates a high-speed burst-shooting capability: bursts of 12 frames per second at full resolution, or 60 frames per second at a resolution of 3.5 MP. A reliable aid to photographers in the precise composition and assessment of images, the 3" LCD display with 460,000 pixel resolution delivers an extremely bright and clear view. The monitor screen of the V-Lux 3 can be twisted and turned in almost any direction, opening up entirely new horizons for image composition from even the most unusual angles. When shooting stills or video from above their head or down close to the ground, photographers using the V-Lux 3 always remain in full control. The design of the Leica V-Lux 3 is characterized by a compact form and extremely simple handling. The camera's integrated handgrip keeps it steady and its light weight allows for one-handed shooting. All controls are clearly laid out and simple to use. For instance, video recording can be started quickly and easily at the touch of a button on the top deck of the camera. Supporting Leica Camera's commitment to an uncompromised customer experience, the Leica V-Lux 3 comes complete with a two-year warranty. The camera also is supplied with a comprehensive software package, including Adobe® Photoshop® Elements and Adobe® Premiere® Elements. The image-processing software Adobe® Photoshop® Elements offers users options for viewing, organization and administration in addition to a wide range of image-processing solutions. Adobe® Premiere® Elements is especially designed for video processing and offers optimum features for processing videos recorded by the V-Lux 3 in AVCHD format, enabling the creation of professional audio and video effects. Both programs are available as free downloads from the Leica Camera website after registration of the camera. The Leica V-Lux 3 will be available from Leica Camera dealers beginning January 2012 Technical data LEICA V-LUX 3 Lens: Leica DC Vario-Elmarit 4.5 - 108 mm f/2.8 - 5.2 ASPH., equivalent to 25–600 mm in 35 mm format Zoom optical/digital: 24×/4× Distance settings Operating modes: Normal/Macro, continuous autofocus (on/off), AF tracking Metering modes: Face recognition, AF tracking, 23-field, 1-field, spot (flexible/scalable) Distance-settings range P/A/S/M: 30 cm (wide angle)/2 m (telephoto)– Macro/Intelligent/ Auto/Video: 1 cm (wide angle)/1 m (telephoto)– Scene modes: May differ from the ranges above. Sensor: 1/2.33"CMOS with 12.8 MP (effective 12.1 MP) Resolution Still image: JPG: 4:3 format: max. 4000 × 3000 pixels (12 MP), 3:2 format: max. 4000 × 2672 pixels (10.5 MP), 16:9 format: max. 4000 × 2248 pixels (9 MP), 1:1 format: max. 2992 × 2992 pixels (9 MP) RAW: 4:3 format: max. 4000 × 3000 pixels (12 MP), 3:2 format: max. 4000 × 2672 pixels (10.5 MP), 16:9 format: max. 4000 × 2248 pixels (9 MP), 1:1 format: max. 2992 × 2992 pixels (9 MP) Video: AVCHD: 1920 × 1080 (60p)/1280 × 720 (60p) MP4/30 fps: 1920 × 1080/1280 × 720/640 × 480 High speed: 320 × 240 pixels, 220 fps (motion JPEG) File format/compression rate Still image: RAW/JPEG (based on Exif 2.3 standard)/DPOF-compatible Video: AVCHD/MP4/QuickTime Motion JPEG Exposure control Exposure modes: Program (P), aperture priority (A), shutter speed priority (S), manual (M) Exposure compensation: Steps: 1/3 EV increments, range: ±3 EV Metering modes: Multi-field, center-weighted, spot White balance: Auto, daylight, cloudy, shade, halogen, custom ISO sensitivity: Auto, 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200 Shutter speeds: 60 s–1/2000 s (Starry-sky mode: 15 s, 30 s, 60 s) Continuous shooting/burst rate: (Max. number of frames/max. resolution) With central shutter: 2 fps: 100/12 MP, 5.5 fps: 100/12 MP, 12 fps: 15/12 MP With electronic shutter: 40 fps: 50/5 MP, 60 fps: 60/3.5 MP Video recording: 2/5/10 fps: 40/3.5 MP Flash Flash modes: AUTO, AUTO with pre-flash (red-eye reduction), AUTO with slow sync and pre-flash, on, off Flash range (with ISO AUTO and shortest focal length): Approx. 30 cm–9.5 m / Approx. 11.8 in – 31.18 ft Self-timer: 2/10 sec. delay Monitor: 3.0" TFT LCD, approx. 461,000 pixels, coverage: approx. 100%, automatic brightness adjustment Viewfinder: Color LCD, approx. 202,000 pixels, coverage: approx. 100%, adjustable by ±4 dioptres Microphone/speaker: Stereo/mono Recording media Built-in memory: Approx. 70 MB Memory cards: SD, SDHC, SDXC Interfaces: Digital: USB 2.0 (high speed), data from PCs cannot be transferred to the camera with the USB cable, mini HDMI cable (Type C). Analog video/audio signals: NTSC/PAL FBAS (menu setting option), audio line-out (mono), dedicated jack (8-pin). MIC/REMOTE: 2.5 mm jack Printer compatibility: PictBridge Operating temperature/ humidity: 0–40°C/10–80% Rechargeable lithium-ion battery Voltage/capacity: 7.2 V/895 mAh (410 images, CIPA standard) Dimensions (W × H × D): 124 × 81 × 95 mm / Approx. 4.88 x 3.19 x 3.74 in Weight: 540 g / Approx. 19.04 oz (including memory card and battery) Package includes: Camera with lens cap, battery charger (Leica BC-DC 9), battery (Leica BP-DC 9), lens hood, carrying strap, AV cable, USB cable, CD with detailed instructions Software: Adobe® Photoshop® Elements®, Adobe® Premiere® Elements® (available as free download after registration) |
| You are subscribed to email updates from Engadget News To stop receiving these emails, you may unsubscribe now. | Email delivery powered by Google |
| Google Inc., 20 West Kinzie, Chicago IL USA 60610 | |
No comments:
Post a Comment