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Engadget News |
- FurniGadget: N+ew freezes your e-waste into a stool
- Motorola Droid RAZR Maxx review
- NTT DoCoMo launches NEC Medias ES N-05D: Is 6.7mm thin enough?
- Razer Tiamat 7.1 delayed again, gamers everywhere realize they have other headset options
- Firefox 10 out now: full screen apps, fewer crashes, disappearing forward button
- Battery maker Ener1 files for bankruptcy, tied to Think Global's bumper
- Windows 8 file management: You ask, Microsoft listens
- Apple Hong Kong revives reserve and pick up page, wants to stop iPhones going abroad
- Hot Wheels RC iNitro Speeders hands-on (video)
- WTO ruling revives debate over China's rare earths trade
- HTC Ville gets hands-on en Francais, is presumably practicing its Spanish for MWC (video)
- Apple releases updated Final Cut Pro X, brings multicam support, broadcast monitoring love
- Sony's 3D Experience channel tops 10 million views, some people like the extra dimension
- Google clarifies what isn't changing with new privacy policy
- McAfee updates Mobile Security to 2.0, keeps you protected on the go (video)
- RIM: It's okay, we have superheroes
- T-Mobile brings Square to select small businesses, does the mobile payment thing
- LG Optimus L3 appears in Sweden, packs entry-level style
- Samsung faces EU antitrust investigation over mobile patents
- Fujitsu slashes profit target by 42 percent, blames Thai floods
- MasterCard reveals roadmap for our electronic payment future: EMV in, magnetic strips out
- German court upholds ban on original Galaxy Tab 10.1
- Sky will launch an internet based TV service in the UK in the first half of 2012
- Green Charge: an app that helps your EV talk to you (video)
- ARM boosts profits by 45 percent, strengthens grip on the universe
- Apple hires former Dixons CEO John Browett as senior VP of Retail
- Koobe's Jin Yong Reader gets Mirasol, brings color to Taiwanese hearts
- Panasonic introduces Lumix DMC-ZS20 and ZS15 compact superzoom cameras
- Panasonic adds Lumix DMC-TS4 and DMC-TS20 to ruggedized camera line
- Panasonic announces pricing for entry-level Lumix CES point-and-shoots
- Samsung brings us more to love, offers Galaxy Note engraving in South Korea
- APK puts Windows 95, 98 and XP, plus Linux on the EVO 3D
- BOXX electric bike: two wheels, four corners, all-electric transport for one
- T-Mobile to tighten the purse strings, limit data roaming starting April 5th
- Nanotech-enhanced 'smart paint' promises to detect structural damage
- Lenovo ThinkPad Tablet joining the Ice Cream Sandwich party in Q2?
- Canalys: Apple leading PC maker in Q4 2011, if you count iPads
- SlingPlayer for Kindle Fire available tomorrow for $30 in the Amazon Appstore
- Microsoft begins Office 15 technical preview, fills up before you knew it existed
- Must See HDTV (January 30th - February 5th)
| FurniGadget: N+ew freezes your e-waste into a stool Posted: 31 Jan 2012 10:41 AM PST  This is one of Rodrigo Alonso's stools. It's part of a series of furniture called N+ew, which stands for "No More Electronic Waste," the Chilean artist felt the best way to dispose of electronic gadgetry that had fallen by the wayside, was to encase it in epoxy resin and sell it to aesthetes worldwide. As you can see, the collection has a rare, distinct beauty that recalls Mies van der Rohe's Barcelona chair and Arne Jacobsen's No. 7 seat. If you find yourself unable to resist a purchase, bespoke editions can be ordered from the sculptor's website as the perfect conversation starter -- as long as you enjoy every conversation beginning with "What on earth possessed you to buy one of those things?" |
| Motorola Droid RAZR Maxx review Posted: 31 Jan 2012 10:00 AM PST  Most of today's smartphones, especially those of the LTE-enabled persuasion, have earned a bad rap for exceptionally bad battery life, with large displays and hungry radios that suck the juice out faster than a three year-old can down a CapriSun. The race to construct the thinnest phones on the market doesn't help much either, since whittling down handsets results in less space for generously sized battery packs. The Motorola Droid RAZR is currently the slimmest phone this side of the Pacific, offering a thickness of 7.1mm at its thinnest end, and the title likely won't hold for long as new phones like the Huawei Ascend P1 S aim to knock the RAZR off its throne. But at what point do we stand up and insist on adding a little extra heft for the sake of having a bigger battery? Enter the Motorola Droid RAZR Maxx. A mere two months after its predecessor was released on Verizon, this new contender came around to challenge the battery life of every single next-gen phone we've ever used. Its back end has been filled out somewhat to make room for a bigger battery, but at 8.99mm, it's still slimmer than a huge number of competing handsets on the market today. So what makes the Maxx different from the RAZR? Is it worth paying $300 with a two-year commitment -- a $100 premium over its original? Read on to find out. Hardware and designThe Maxx looks like original Droid RAZR would if it made a trip through a maze of funhouse mirrors. Realistically, the two are complete twinners in every way but one: the Maxx measures 8.99mm at its thinnest point, while the RAZR's much slimmer at 7.1mm thick. In reality, a difference of 1.9mm doesn't seem to be that much -- and we agree. But in the mobile world, however, it's the thinnest devices that reign supreme and ultimately earn ultimate bragging rights. The Maxx isn't looking to win that title, but it still shouldn't be considered bulky by any means. After all, at its thinnest, it cuts a skinnier profile than the 9.3mm-thick iPhone 4S and the 9.47mm Galaxy Nexus on Verizon. Granted, the Maxx still sports the same 10.6mm-thick hump as you'll find on the original RAZR's back cover, though this time around, the slope running up from its thinner end is less pronounced. And frankly, we don't mind the dimensions one bit. We understand that thin is in, but the heft makes for a much more comfortable grip.  The Maxx is also a smidge heavier than its 4.48-ounce (127g) predecessor, tipping the scales at 5.11 ounces (145g). Again, this is definitely manageable and still bests the Galaxy Nexus. This begs the question, though: why does it matter that this phone is slimmer and lighter than Sammy's flagship ICS device? Because the entire reason the Maxx exists is to accommodate that mammoth 3,300mAh battery built inside to deliver superb battery life. We'll do a deep dive into the performance later, but the fact that the thicker and heavier Nexus uses a smaller power pack goes to show that there is no more excuse for poor performance in this category. If Motorola can push out stellar results in such a thin profile, why can't HTC or Samsung? Let's not overlook one key factor here, which is the lack of a user-removable battery. Certainly Motorola had to make a few concessions in order to cram more stuff into less space, and a battery cover missed the cut. With such a lengthy talk time, most people won't blink an eye at this, and we feel the same way. We had plenty of concern with the first RAZR, since we knew enough people would find a genuine need for an extended battery, but being stuck with such a large juicepack on the Maxx won't be quite as frustrating for heavy users.  Aside from the larger battery and plumper profile, the Maxx has the same specs and design as the original RAZR. Leave that out of the equation and you'd be hard-pressed to tell the difference between the two of them. The ports are all in the same place, the lackluster PenTile qHD display is left unimproved, the firmware and cameras remain unchanged and the hardware itself is still fashioned out of tough materials like Kevlar and Gorilla Glass. To learn all the fine details about what makes the two RAZRs tick, check out our review on the original version. This feels like a slap in the face to power users that purchased the original Droid RAZR during the holidays but would've waited for the Maxx had they known it was coming in two months. The situation isn't dissimilar to the ruckus AT&T caused by announcing three versions of the Samsung Galaxy S II -- the GSII, Skyrocket and Skyrocket HD -- within a span of four months. On one hand, we can definitely and relate to the frustration. On the other, such rapid turnover has turned into standard practice in the US, a cautionary tale to keep in mind when buying a phone. Will this handset serve your needs, regardless of what may come to market over the next 18 to 24 months? We suppose it could have been worse for heavy-hitting RAZR owners if Moto and Verizon made improvements to other components as well, but that's exactly what the two companies should've done. More specifically, we were disappointed that the qHD display was left untouched, and would've enjoyed seeing a 720p HD panel get tossed in to help the Maxx match wits against the Galaxy Nexus. Battery lifeTwo words: holy smokes. We took the phone off the charger at 8:30 AM, began our standard video rundown test that consists of an endless video loop while connected to 3G, walked away and waited. And waited. And continued waiting until 1 AM the following morning. That's right -- the Maxx lasted 16.5 hours playing the same video over and over before giving up the ghost. Running the same test on the original Droid RAZR yielded nine hours of battery life, which is respectable, though nowhere near this impressive. We charged up the Maxx again, used it moderately for a full day and a half and the phone was still at 40 percent. The next morning we awoke to find the Maxx was still sitting pretty at 20 percent. Had we left Smart Actions turned on, it likely would have saved us even more juice. In other words, it lasted a solid two days with moderate use before it cried out for another charge. We'll update with more results as they come, as LTE tests are still in progress.
We expected the Droid RAZR Maxx's 3,300mAh battery to last us a long time, and we were aware that the talk time for the phone is rated at 21 hours. But interestingly enough, despite the fact that the battery life didn't last as long as advertised, we still found ourselves in awe, wondering where this phone had been our whole lives. Camera As with the Droid RAZR, the Maxx sports an eight megapixel rear shooter and 1.3MP front-facing camera. As mentioned before, the sensors are identical to the previous phone, and as such don't expect to see many different results here. Colors are still muted in direct sunlight, it struggles in low-light situations and indoor images are once again a bit noisy. We were pleased to see only a limited amount of shutter lag, thanks to the phone's continuous autofocus feature. Panorama shots were hit-or-miss, with nearly a half of our images not even merging together without looking blurry or disjointed. As ever, the 1080p video capture is above average. Granted, we still experienced a little bit of compression, but everything was crisp and the movies we made were perfectly fluid. The camcorder is set to 720p by default, so you'll need to go in and manually switch it up the first time. However, when we used the lower resolution we were still pleased with the results. Software We won't dive into a whole lot of detail here, because frankly there isn't much to give this time around that wouldn't be directly copying our review of the original Droid RAZR. Why? Because the two phones run virtually the same ROM, build and skin. Using the RAZR and the Maxx side-by-side, we came to an interesting realization: nothing about its firmware is different from its mentor. There is no new firmware build, no nifty tricks added in for the heck of it and no improved specs. When we mentioned earlier that the Maxx really is the OG RAZR with an extended battery built inside, we were speaking quite literally. Wrap-up The Droid RAZR Maxx may deliver a lifetime of mammoth proportions, but we can't help but have mixed feelings. Why? As too often is the case (the Samsung Skyrocket series on AT&T comes to mind), Motorola and Verizon are hard at work pushing too many RAZR devices at once, and early adopters are left as the victims. We're sure there were a few people that purchased the original phone because they were bedazzled by its incredibly thin profile, but how many owners would much rather have a device that's still very reasonably svelte and offers astronomically superb battery life? Power users who need to have the longest lifetime possible will have no choice but to pick it -- a notion that's just cause for disappointment. At its worst, it's an original RAZR with a $100 extended battery pack attached. At its best, however, the Maxx is proof to every phone manufacturer that it really is possible to make a slender (and absolutely stunning) device that can actually survive more than a full days' worth of heavy use. So what does the Maxx really offer to the rest of the mobile community? A sense of optimism. |
| NTT DoCoMo launches NEC Medias ES N-05D: Is 6.7mm thin enough? Posted: 31 Jan 2012 09:37 AM PST
Those NEC artisans have been at it again, shaving even more from its smartphone profiles. It's arrived at the Medias ES N-05D, which measures in at a ridiculous 6.7mm, and making the Droid Razr choke on its salad in the process. Like its predecessor, the ES N-01, the Android phone will be ready to play nice with your compatible G-Shock, alongside a waterproof shell, HD screen and eight megapixel camera. Arriving on NTT DoCoMo, you can expect those exotic 'standard' features that Japanese customers love, including a 1seg TV tuner and NFC wallet functionality. As is the tradition for new phones in the east, the phone will launch in several colors: black, white and (predictably) pink. Skinny jeans fans can hop over to the source to see exactly how Japan rocks its slim phones. |
| Razer Tiamat 7.1 delayed again, gamers everywhere realize they have other headset options Posted: 31 Jan 2012 09:13 AM PST  |
| Firefox 10 out now: full screen apps, fewer crashes, disappearing forward button Posted: 31 Jan 2012 08:49 AM PST  |
| Battery maker Ener1 files for bankruptcy, tied to Think Global's bumper Posted: 31 Jan 2012 08:26 AM PST  |
| Windows 8 file management: You ask, Microsoft listens Posted: 31 Jan 2012 08:02 AM PST  |
| Apple Hong Kong revives reserve and pick up page, wants to stop iPhones going abroad Posted: 31 Jan 2012 07:39 AM PST
In a bid to keep iPhones sold in Hong Kong on the island nation, Apple has reintroduced reserve and pick up pages for the smartphones. The difference this time around is the inclusion of the customer's Hong Kong identity card number within the registration form, which goes live between 9am and 12pm each day. The aim is put breaks on the speculative smartphone buyers picking up several devices to mule across to mainland China. You'll still need a bit of luck; Apple performs a random draw each day for those that registered, and 'winners' are informed via email. Each card can apparently buy a limited quantity of the in-demand phone -- one that's getting some smartphone obsessives a little too hot under the collar. |
| Hot Wheels RC iNitro Speeders hands-on (video) Posted: 31 Jan 2012 07:00 AM PST  There's a standard RC remote included in the excessive plastic packaging, alongside the iPhone adapter. The dual sliders function just as you'd expect, though the Mustang moved quite a bit quicker than we anticipated. In between the two control pads is an empty chamber with a plastic lid intended for storing the RC GT when not in use. Inside you'll also find the charging cable for the car, though, you can't close the clear top while it's plugged in. Of course, you're not picking up an iNitro Speeder for the standard-issue RC controller, it's the iPhone adapter that you want. The light plastic box plugs into the headphone jack and, when used in conjunction with the Hot Wheels RC iNitro Speeders app, allows you to control the wee wheels with your iOS device. The app has a number of different modes, including a basic dual virtual stick layout. Other control schemes allow you to tilt the device, drag your finger to steer and control acceleration or draw a predetermined route. There is some lag between issuing commands from the app and when the toy reacts, but not so much that it completely ruins the experience. The preprogrammed routes work pretty much flawlessly, but custom designed paths were performed in halting stutter steps. Ultimately though, as fun as it is to watch the mini Mustang dart around a room, its size proves to be its biggest limitation. Its tiny wheels are no match for many rugs, carpets, or pretty much any outdoor environment -- save the most freshly paved of asphalt. In fact, we highly suggest you vacuum or sweep your floors before letting the Speeders loose, as even small amounts of dust or pet hair are enough to tangle the axle bring the toy to a grinding halt. Even with those caveats though, it's hard to believe that any child wouldn't thoroughly enjoy piloting the RC car around with an iPhone or iPad. The various control methods and in-app drag racing game will keep even the most attention deficient youngsters occupied for quite a while. Check out the video above to see it in action. |
| WTO ruling revives debate over China's rare earths trade Posted: 31 Jan 2012 06:37 AM PST  China suffered another setback at the WTO yesterday, thanks to a ruling that could spell trouble for its controversial rare earths industry. In a decision issued Monday, a WTO panel determined that the Chinese government has been acting in violation of international trade rules, due to export restrictions on a number of raw materials. These restrictions, the panel said, allowed Beijing to inflate global market prices, while giving an advantage to domestic producers. As a result, China will likely have to adjust its trade policies to comply with WTO regulations. In a statement, the country's Ministry of Commerce said it "deeply regrets" the decision, but confirmed that the People's Republic will adhere to it. This week's ruling applies to materials like bauxite, coke, magnesium, manganese and zinc, but, most notably, does not apply to rare earths -- a group of 17 elements critical to the production of tablets, smartphones and myriad other gadgets. China has maintained a rather tight grip over the world's rare earths market, thanks to a slew of export controls, quotas and government-erected barriers to entry. The country has come under intense international pressure in recent years, with the US, EU and Mexico filing complaints with the WTO, arguing that China's price-inflating restrictions violate international trade agreements. Beijing, for its part, has long maintained that its export controls are designed to minimize the environmental impact of rare earth mining, while meeting the country's surging domestic demand. It's an argument that's come up a lot during this debate but one that the WTO, on Monday, deemed illegitimate, stating that China has thus far been "unable to demonstrate" the environmental benefits of its policies. The decision won't have any immediate bearing on these policies, but some observers are hopeful that it may be a sign of things to come. Michael Silver, CEO of rare earth processor American Elements, told Reuters that the ruling "confirms the existence of the two-tiered price structure that has caused so much concern," with EU Trade Commissioner Karel De Gucht adding that the decision should force China to remove restrictions on both the aforementioned raw materials and rare earths, alike. Others, however, aren't so optimistic, pointing out that, with a full 95 percent of the rare earths market under its aegis, China could realistically afford to ignore any decisions handed down from the WTO in the future. |
| HTC Ville gets hands-on en Francais, is presumably practicing its Spanish for MWC (video) Posted: 31 Jan 2012 06:13 AM PST
While we're still a few weeks away from annual phone festival, MWC, it's these weeks in the run-up that often draw out blurrycam appetizers of what we'll see over in Barcelona. This time, it's no other than the HTC |
| Apple releases updated Final Cut Pro X, brings multicam support, broadcast monitoring love Posted: 31 Jan 2012 05:59 AM PST  With this new version, Final Cut Pro X can now support footage from up to 64 separate cameras, each with different combinations of codecs, resolutions and frame rates. The app can obviously sync based on embedded timestamps, but it can also automatically take a shot at lining up footage by looking at the waveforms of associated audio from each cam, even if that audio isn't used in the resulting production. There's also a new advanced chroma key feature, which enables better tweaking of green screen-like footage from directly within the app, and the ability to work with layered PSDs right there as well. There's also beta support for broadcast monitoring hardware from the likes of Blackmagic, AJA and Matrox, all of whom are said to have or be working on Thunderbolt-equipped hardware. Finally, three third-party add-ons are releasing today: Red Giant has a version of its Magic Bullet Suite, GenArts has is Sapphire Edge plugin and Intelligent Assistance has a $10 app called 7 to X that will convert legacy Final Cut Pro projects into the latest and greatest format. The feature upgrades to Final Cut Pro X are nice, especially given this update is free to those who have already paid the $299 entry fee, but is it all enough to woo back those jilted pros who might have taken their multicam setups elsewhere over the past seven months? That we'll have to wait and see. Apple Updates Final Cut Pro X CUPERTINO, California-January 31, 2012-Apple® today released Final Cut Pro® X v10.0.3, a significant update to its revolutionary professional video editing application, which introduces multicam editing that automatically syncs up to 64 angles of video and photos; advanced chroma keying for handling complex adjustments right in the app; and enhanced XML for a richer interchange with third party apps and plug-ins that support the fast growing Final Cut Pro X ecosystem. Available today as a free update from the Mac® App Store™, Final Cut Pro X v10.0.3 also includes a beta of broadcast monitoring that supports Thunderbolt devices as well as PCIe cards. Final Cut Pro X v10.0.3 includes a collection of groundbreaking new tools for editing multicam projects. Final Cut Pro X automatically syncs clips from your shoot using audio waveforms, time and date, or timecode to create a Multicam Clip with up to 64 angles of video, which can include mixed formats, frame sizes and frame rates. The powerful Angle Editor allows you to dive into your Multicam Clip to make precise adjustments, and the Angle Viewer lets you play back multiple angles at the same time and seamlessly cut between them. Final Cut Pro X builds upon its robust, one-step chroma key with the addition of advanced controls including color sampling, edge adjustment and light wrap. You can tackle complex keying challenges right in Final Cut Pro X, without having to export to a motion graphics application, and view your results instantly with realtime playback. In the seven months since launch, the third party ecosystem around Final Cut Pro X has expanded dramatically. XML-compatible software like DaVinci Resolve and CatDV provide tight integration for tasks such as color correction and media management. The new 7toX app from Intelligent Assistance uses XML to import Final Cut Pro 7 projects into Final Cut Pro X. In addition, some of the industry's largest visual effects developers, including GenArts and Red Giant, have developed motion graphics plug-ins that take advantage of the speed and real-time preview capabilities of Final Cut Pro X. Broadcast monitoring in Final Cut Pro X is currently in beta and allows you to connect to waveform displays, vectorscopes, and calibrated, high-quality monitors to ensure that your project meets broadcast specifications. Final Cut Pro X supports monitoring of video and audio through Thunderbolt I/O devices, as well as through third party PCIe cards. Pricing & Availability Final Cut Pro X v10.0.3 is available from the Mac App Store for $299.99 (US) to new users, or as a free update for existing Final Cut Pro X customers. A 30-day free trial of Final Cut Pro X is available at www.apple.com/finalcutpro/trial. Full system requirements and more information on Final Cut Pro X can be found at www.apple.com/finalcutpro. Apple designs Macs, the best personal computers in the world, along with OS X, iLife, iWork and professional software. Apple leads the digital music revolution with its iPods and iTunes online store. Apple has reinvented the mobile phone with its revolutionary iPhone and App Store, and is defining the future of mobile media and computing devices with iPad. |
| Sony's 3D Experience channel tops 10 million views, some people like the extra dimension Posted: 31 Jan 2012 05:44 AM PST
Since kicking off its free 3D Experience channel, Sony has managed to notch up 10 million viewers in just short of six months. The channel offers up samples of music, movies, sports and documentaries for free, in an effort to tempt viewers into ponying up cash for the full experience. The channel, available on its Bravia 3DTV range and Blu-ray players, has now expanded from its five initial launch countries to 60. It's currently offering tastes of forthcoming Sony titles like The Amazing Spiderman and content from last year's World Cup, with a total of around 100 free snippets to peruse on the Japanese iteration of the channel. You hear Sony well up with pride in the PR below. Well, it's had a pretty tough time recently. Experience Sony's 3D content channel "3D Experience", topped the 10 million total views Experience Sony's 3D content channel was launched in July 2011 "3D Experience (3D Experience)", the ※ 1 topped 10 million viewers worldwide total number of content at 6 months of service. "3D Experience" movies, music, sports, and digest a wide range of 3D video and documentaries, LCD TV compatible 3D ※ 2, Blu-ray Disc Player for ※ 3, free Internet service that delivers. This service initially launched in five countries, has expanded the deployment of currently 60 countries and regions, for customers worldwide, and delivers 3D entertainment. Since its launch in Japan in August 2011, promising 3D work will be published in 2012 from Sony Pictures Entertainment "Amazing Spider-Man," "Men in Black 3" 3D video and digest, "FIFA Club World Cup Japan 2011 "official video trailer of the film," 3D GRAND TOUR World Heritage Site The "content and 15's, has expanded its content, and enjoy a free ※ 4 100 titles in total. We will further enrich the future of 3D content to be delivered. The Company, "3D Experience" through the genre of your choice from a wide range of 3D content, find work, if you offer a hands-on experience, we will create an environment to enjoy a more active 3D entertainment. (※ 1) views of the point total content time, January 24, 2012 (※ 2) This service years 2010, 3D released in 2011 featured Internet TV "BRAVIA" stays. (Object model in Japan: a total of nine models LX900/HX900/HX800/HX920/820/720/NX720/EX720/72S Series 24 Series) (※ 3) launched in 2011 "BDP-S480" available at. (※ 4) the number of content at January 31, 2012 press release. |
| Google clarifies what isn't changing with new privacy policy Posted: 31 Jan 2012 05:19 AM PST  |
| McAfee updates Mobile Security to 2.0, keeps you protected on the go (video) Posted: 31 Jan 2012 04:40 AM PST  If you tend to exercise a bit more caution when using your mobile machine, we imagine you'll welcome McAfee's Mobile Security 2.0 with open arms. The Intel-owned security connoisseur has just introduced its refreshed apps, designed to protect Android handsets and slates, along with BlackBerry and Symbian smartphones. All users can take advantage of features such as Complete Anti-virus, Anti-spyware, Anti-phishing Protection, Call and SMS Filtering, while Android owners can also try out App Protection, which is said to interpret "how apps are accessing and possibly transmitting personal data," in order to keep your privacy under control. If you've been a paranoid -- or smart -- user since the first release, then the update will come at no cost, while those of you looking to jump aboard the secured ship for the first time will need to fork over the $29.99 subscription fee. You'll find all the details you need in the press release just past the break. McAfee Mobile Security 2.0 Combines Powerful New Security Features for Smartphone and Tablet Users First Mobile Security App to Combine Antivirus, Anti-theft, Web and App Protection, Call/SMS Filtering and Protection from Potentially Unwanted Programs SANTA CLARA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--McAfee today announced the next generation of McAfee® Mobile Security software, providing smartphone and tablet owners with more controls to preserve their privacy and protection against financial fraud, identity theft and viruses. Available now, McAfee Mobile Security 2.0 supports Google Android-based smartphones and tablets, including those running on Intel® architecture as well as BlackBerry and Symbian smartphones. New features include McAfee App Alert™, which provides important information about what apps are doing with users' personal information. Call and SMS filtering block unwanted numbers and spam texts. The app is also powered by the McAfee Global Threat Intelligence network, which constantly analyzes global threat data to identify and quickly block new threats with over-the-air app updates. "It is increasingly clear that using a smartphone without security means any sensitive information, such as photos, bank account information or company data on that mobile device is at risk of falling into the wrong hands." "McAfee Mobile Security 2.0 now offers Android, BlackBerry and Symbian users definitive mobile technology to protect against the most harmful threats to mobile devices today," said John Thode, executive vice president and general manager, Consumer, Mobile and Small Business at McAfee. "It is increasingly clear that using a smartphone without security means any sensitive information, such as photos, bank account information or company data on that mobile device is at risk of falling into the wrong hands." A Cisco study recently found that half of the respondents would rather lose their wallet or purse than their smartphone – a startling indication of the integral role mobile devices play in our lives. With vast amounts of personal and business data now found on phones and tablets, mobile security threats continue to increase and threaten this information. McAfee Mobile Security software helps smartphone and tablet users embrace mobile technology with the peace of mind that comes from knowing their devices and data are safe from cybercriminals. McAfee Mobile Security software provides: Complete Anti-virus, Anti-spyware and Anti-phishing Protection: Scans for malicious code from files, memory cards, applications, Internet downloads and text messages Protection from Potentially Unwanted Programs: McAfee is the first to protect users from applications that include commercial spyware, adware and dialers, despite the fact that these programs may have been downloaded in conjunction with a program that the user wants Web Protection: McAfee SiteAdvisor® protects against Web threats by blocking risky links within SMS, email and social networking sites. It also safeguards against potential phishing sites, browser exploits and malicious quick response (QR) codes. Anti-theft Protection: Device Lock: Prevents misuse of the user's phone and personal data by remotely locking all data, including the data on the memory (SIM) card, and displaying a "contact me" message on the device Remotely Wipe Data: Protects the user's privacy by remotely deleting the data on the phone and removable memory card. It can also back up data before the remote wipe to prevent the loss of data on the device. Backup and Restore Data: Preserves irreplaceable personal information on demand, on a schedule, or before wiping a missing smartphone, then restores information to the new device Locate and Track: Helps users to recover their smartphone if it is lost or stolen. Users can view the device's location on a map, send an SMS to prompt its return, and use a remote alarm to make it "scream" App Protection: McAfee App Alert for Android helps users keep private data private by interpreting how apps are accessing and possibly transmitting personal data Call and SMS Filtering: Easily filters out spammers, incorrect numbers and unwanted texts Online Management: The McAfee Web portal lets users quickly execute needed security tasks, such as backup, restore, locate, and remote lock and wipe Uninstall Protection: Prevents a thief or another user from bypassing their McAfee mobile protection McAfee Mobile Security 2.0 costs $29.99 USD for new subscribers and existing McAfee Mobile Security subscribers can download the updated software for free. For more information or to download a trial of McAfee Mobile Security 2.0, go to http://home.mcafee.com/store/mobile-security. |
| RIM: It's okay, we have superheroes Posted: 31 Jan 2012 04:10 AM PST  Update: RIM has provided a little update stating that this is "not a new ad campaign." Still, it's fun to imagine what might have been. |
| T-Mobile brings Square to select small businesses, does the mobile payment thing Posted: 31 Jan 2012 04:00 AM PST  T-Mobile is throwing some of its weight behind the mobile payment movement this morning, becoming the first carrier to offer Square credit card readers to a handful of retail outlets. Under the company's new campaign, stores equipped with T-Mobile smartphones will be able to use Jack Dorsey's readers to finalize transactions from the comfort of their palms. This should come in handy for cash-only businesses, in particular, as T-Mobile emphasized in its announcement today. It's all part of the provider's lineup of small business offerings, though not every retailer will be involved at launch. To see the full list of Squared-up outlets, check out the source link below. T-Mobile Commits to Helping Small Businesses Transform Their Business and "Get Paid Fast" Company is the First Wireless Carrier to Offer Square Credit Card Readers in Stores BELLEVUE, Wash., January 31, 2012 - Today, T-Mobile USA, Inc. reiterated its commitment to small business as the first wireless carrier to offer Square credit card readers from San Francisco-based Square, Inc. in select retail stores. When T-Mobile's fastest 4G smartphones running on America's Largest 4G Network® are combined with Square, small businesses can accept credit card payments in the U.S. nearly anywhere, anytime, with the money from transactions sent for deposit into their bank accounts the next business day. This easy-to-use solution, paired with T-Mobile's affordable small business plans, aggregated business applications, equipment financing and trade-in services, and in-store support, allows small businesses to maximize their wireless investment and transform their business. Investment bank Barclays Capital estimates that U.S. mobile commerce sales hit $5.3 billion in 2011, up 83 percent from 20101. However, more than 26 million small businesses still do not accept credit card payment. The availability of Square card readers as an accessory in T-Mobile® retail stores will make it easy for many small businesses to accept credit card payments for the first time. "T-Mobile understands my needs as a small business owner," said Nikki Halgren, owner of The Gleeful Peacock, a handmade jewelry business. "They not only keep me connected on the go, but they've made it easy for me to get paid fast with my T-Mobile smartphone and Square. T-Mobile has made it simple and, as a result, I've nearly doubled my business over last year." "Small business customers are looking for a partner that will help them navigate the sometimes overwhelming and confusing wireless experience and provide the biggest bang for their buck," said Bruce McGregor, senior analyst with Current Analysis. "With their emerging portfolio of small business solutions, T-Mobile is taking the right steps to better cater to customers' needs for increased productivity via their mobile services." "The success of our small business customers is important to us. Formerly 'cash only' small businesses can now simply and cost-effectively accept credit cards with their smartphone using Square, giving them an easy path to growth," said Matt Millen, vice president of small and medium business sales at T-Mobile. "As these businesses evaluate their wireless needs, T-Mobile is committed to providing quality of service, cost savings and connectivity that are a requirement for their success." Small Business Plans At T-Mobile, small business customers have the ability to tailor wireless plans to their needs with affordable, worry-free unlimited and flexible pooling plans. The T-Mobile Small Business Plan and Small Business Value Rate Plans offer exceptional value, consistent and simple pricing, handset choice and scalability to allow for business growth. T-Mobile's portfolio also includes well-priced pooling plans, which start at just $59.99 per month for two lines using 1000 Whenever Minutes with a two-year agreement. Applications with a Mind for Business To reduce the complexity and effort small businesses associate with finding and downloading the best business applications, T-Mobile offers the T-Mobile 4GPro App Pack, an aggregation of key business applications, such as DropBox, Evernote, Square, TripIt, Camscanner and LinkedIn, preloaded on select smartphones and tablets, such as the Android-based HTC® Amaze™ 4G and Samsung Galaxy S™ II. Further, by providing an easy path to cloud services like DropBox and Evernote, T-Mobile helps small businesses easily store and access the documents, files, images, and notes that will help them better run their business from virtually anywhere. Other Services T-Mobile is also making it easier and more convenient for small business customers to purchase, protect and pay for their mobile devices. When paired with the company's Value plans, T-Mobile's Equipment Installment Plan (EIP) can be used to finance most devices for more than 18 months. Through the company's Equipment Trade-In program, small business customers can utilize older or unused devices to offset the cost of new device purchases. With the company's convenient Premium Handset Protection program, customers are covered for loss, theft, damage or malfunction of their device – all at a predictable low cost. In-store Small Business Support Last year, T-Mobile began the rollout of a new global design format in nearly 400 U.S. stores to provide customers with a compelling retail experience and improve overall efficiency within the store. Each retail store has been redesigned to simplify the purchase process and includes seated areas that can be used for more in-depth small business conversations and consultations with knowledgeable retail associates. |
| LG Optimus L3 appears in Sweden, packs entry-level style Posted: 31 Jan 2012 03:34 AM PST  |
| Samsung faces EU antitrust investigation over mobile patents Posted: 31 Jan 2012 02:36 AM PST 
No word yet on how long the investigation may take, but we'll be sure to keep you updated going forward. Antitrust: Commission opens proceedings against Samsung Brussels, 31 January 2012 - The European Commission has opened a formal investigation to assess whether Samsung Electronics has abusively, and in contravention of a commitment it gave to the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI), used certain of its standard essential patent rights to distort competition in European mobile device markets, in breach of EU antitrust rules. The opening of proceedings means that the Commission will examine the case as a matter of priority. It does not prejudge the outcome of the investigation. In 2011, Samsung sought injunctive relief in various Member States' courts against competing mobile device makers based on alleged infringements of certain of its patent rights which it has declared essential to implement European mobile telephony standards. The Commission will investigate, in particular, whether in doing so Samsung has failed to honour its irrevocable commitment given in 1998 to the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI) to license any standard essential patents relating to European mobile telephony standards on fair, reasonable and non-discriminatory (FRAND) terms. The Commission will examine whether such behaviour amounts to an abuse of a dominant position prohibited by Article 102 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the EU (TFEU). In line with the Commission's Guidelines on standardisation agreements (see IP/10/1702 and MEMO/10/676), standard setting organisations, including ETSI, require the owners of patents that are essential for the implementation of a standard to commit to license these patents on FRAND terms. This commitment serves to ensure effective access to the standardised technology. Such commitments were given to ETSI by many patent holders, including Samsung, when the third generation ("3G") mobile and wireless telecommunications system standards were adopted in Europe. In order to guarantee undistorted competition and to reap the positive economic effects of standardisation it is important that FRAND commitments be fully honoured by the concerned undertakings. |
| Fujitsu slashes profit target by 42 percent, blames Thai floods Posted: 31 Jan 2012 02:14 AM PST  NEC revealed its financial woes to the world yesterday and now Fujitsu is doing the same. The Japanese computer giant originally expected to make ¥60 billion ($790 million) in the fiscal year ending March 31st, but its latest estimate suggests ¥35 billion ($460 million) may be closer to the mark. Whereas NEC admitted there'd been a fall in demand for its products, Fujitsu has so far put the blame squarely on the recent flooding in Thailand, which hit PC sales by disrupting supplies of HDDs. |
| MasterCard reveals roadmap for our electronic payment future: EMV in, magnetic strips out Posted: 31 Jan 2012 01:42 AM PST  It's been over fifteen years since MasterCard, Visa and Europay developed EMV technology to make your credit cards more secure, but it has yet to really catch on here in the US. However, MasterCard has created a master plan to help usher in the EMV era and sound the death knell for the magnetic strip. Why? The EMV infrastructure is far more fraud-resistant because each transaction is authenticated dynamically using cryptographic algorithms and a user-specific PIN. That's why MasterCard plans to help build out the EMV POS infrastructure by April of next year and have its secure e-payment system functioning at ATMs, online and with its myriad mobile payment options as well. For now, the nuts and bolts of how the credit card firm plans to bring its plan to fruition are few, but more details will be forthcoming, and there's a bit more info at the source and PR below. MasterCard Introduces U.S. Roadmap to Enable Next Generation of Electronic Payments Framework to Deliver Enhanced Consumer Experience In-Store, Online, at the ATM and with Mobile Phones PURCHASE, N.Y.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--MasterCard today introduced a comprehensive roadmap focused on advancing the U.S. electronic payments system. The roadmap, which includes the path for migration from magnetic stripe to EMV technology currently available on "chip" cards, will serve as the foundation for the next generation of products and services developed to enhance the way consumers pay. As payments continue to evolve to include new devices and new channels, such as mobile and eCommerce, the roadmap takes steps to address how consumers really shop, providing them greater security and control in their payment choices and the potential to seamlessly integrate loyalty programs and offers into the purchasing experience. "We're moving toward a world beyond plastic, where consumers will shop and pay in a way that best fits their needs and lifestyles with a simple tap, click or touch in-store, online or on a mobile device," said Chris McWilton, President, U.S. Markets, MasterCard. "Our roadmap represents a transformational shift in the approach to payments and is not simply about EMV, chip and PIN. We're focused on readying the ecosystem to drive future innovation and provide new consumer experiences to enhance the value of electronic payments. " Defining the Framework Elements of the MasterCard roadmap include: EMV – Solidifying EMV as the foundation of the next generation of payments Immediate focus on acquirer infrastructure – Working with acquirers to ensure infrastructure readiness by April 2013 Encouraging greater security and cardholder verification – Providing consumers with greater control and to reduce fraudulent transactions Provide benefits for merchant terminalization – Providing true financial benefits for merchants as they implement EMV-compatible terminals Cover all channels – Addressing all touch points where consumers will interact with MasterCard, including ATMs, the physical point-of-sale, online and mobile commerce Commitment to leadership and collaboration – Fostering industry collaboration to deliver the next generation of payments into the U.S. marketplace In implementing the roadmap, MasterCard will maximize the technology advancements and investments the company has made over 45 years to benefit the payments ecosystem. "Customers from across the payments ecosystem have been asking for a roadmap," said McWilton. "We believe we've provided issuers and merchants with a vision to 'future proof' their businesses and the flexibility to manage their technology decisions to best meet their goals and priorities." Foundation for Growth and Enhanced Security In the increasingly digital world, transactions will get smarter. At the heart of this is dynamic authentication, where each transaction incorporates unique information, making it virtually impossible to replicate and reducing the risk of fraudulent transactions. As issuers evolve their offering and merchants upgrade their terminals, the payments system will become more secure as this dynamic data is introduced into the payment transaction. MasterCard's roadmap strongly encourages the adoption of the most secure technologies available. "Consumers deserve a great experience any time they use MasterCard products," said Ed McLaughlin, Chief Emerging Payments Officer, MasterCard. "As the industry invests in the upgrade to EMV in the U.S., we now have the ability to enhance the consumer experience and the security of a payment, regardless of the device – contactless card, mobile, eCommerce and technologies still to come." Alignment, Collaboration and Leadership for the Road Forward In its roadmap, MasterCard supports the need for the payments ecosystem to be aligned regarding the implementation of EMV standards in the U.S. The company has indicated it will support current industry timelines in an effort to minimize disruption and to maximize investments across the payments ecosystem. MasterCard was part of the original group that created the EMV standard and has supported the successful migration to EMV-based payments in nearly every major market globally. The company's continued investment in advancing these infrastructure standards has provided insights and expertise to guide the industry in advancing payments security and convenience. "The shift to dynamic data in the transaction process will help ensure greater consistency, security and functionality between the U.S. region and the rest of the globe," said George Peabody, director, Emerging Technologies Advisory Service, Mercator Advisory Group. "Merchants and issuers need a clear and consistent roadmap for payment card security and innovation. MasterCard's approach, starting with EMV, will benefit consumers and the industry." Additional detail on the roadmap and implementation activities will be provided to MasterCard customers in the coming weeks and months. In the meantime, initial resources can be obtained at www.mastercard.us/mchip-emv.html. |
| German court upholds ban on original Galaxy Tab 10.1 Posted: 31 Jan 2012 12:28 AM PST  While Samsung was more than willing to redesign its flagship tablet in the face of the German court's ruling last year, the higher regional court in Dusseldorf maintains that the original still can't be sold within its borders. As Samsung and Apple continue their legal fisticuffs worldwide, the claim from Cupertino that the 10.1-inch Android tablet is too similar to its own iPad has seen more attention than most. Samsung returned the favor by counter-suing over mobile technology patents, although it's been just as unfortunate here, losing two out of the three infringement claims. The final case will be ruled on in early March. Today's decision will also encompass the Galaxy Tab 8.9, although given that this ruling is based on Germany's own unfair competition law, it's unlikely to be replicated elsewhere. Meanwhile, the Galaxy Tab 10.1N remains on shelves -- and very desperate tablet fans remain just a short drive away from neighboring countries still able to sell the original. |
| Sky will launch an internet based TV service in the UK in the first half of 2012 Posted: 30 Jan 2012 11:05 PM PST  Update: Still waiting for Sky Go on Android? The company mentioned during its presentation that the app will finally arrive on Google's platform in February, starting with Samsung Galaxy and HTC handsets. It will also have new channels, including Sky 1, Sky Living and Sky Arts, plus, of course, the new Sky Sports F1 HD channel. The company is also expanding its broadband reach, with plans to cover a million more homes by June 2013, and add a Sky Broadband Unlimited Fibre option. For 20 a month, it offers 40 megabit download speed with no usage caps based on BT Fibre.  31 January 2012 Sky to launch new internet TV service Sky today announced plans to launch a new service allowing customers to watch some of its most popular content over the internet. Taking advantage of the rapid growth in broadband-connected devices, and building on Sky's experience in multi-platform TV, the new service will be an additional choice for people who don't currently subscribe to a pay TV service. Launching in the first half of 2012, the new service will provide instant and simple access to a range of Sky content, including hundreds of films from Sky Movies. Giving consumers even more choice and flexibility, the service will be available to anyone in the UK with a broadband connection. Key features of the new service will include: Great content - the new service will offer some of Sky's most popular programming. Sky Movies will be available from launch and the service will expand to offer sport and entertainment soon afterwards. Flexible pricing – with no minimum contract, customers will be able to choose from a variety of pricing options. For example, people will be able to pay monthly for unlimited access to Sky Movies or rent a single movie on a simple, pay-as-you-go basis. Easy access – the new service will be available across a wide range of connected devices, including PCs, Macs, laptops, tablets, mobile phones, games consoles and connected TVs. Ease of use – with immediate streaming through an intuitive interface, backed up by recommendations and editorial support, customers will quickly and easily find the content they most want to watch. More details of the new service will be revealed closer to launch. Sky has offered television over the internet for a number of years and in 2006 became the first UK broadcaster to offer content to download over the internet. The service has since evolved into Sky Go, which is now accessed across millions of internet-connected devices. Alongside the new internet TV service launching this year, Sky Go will continue to develop as a bonus service for existing Sky TV customers, offering access to a wide range of live channels and on demand content. The launch of a new internet TV service will complement Sky's existing pay TV services and open up a wider opportunity to bring its content to more consumers. Jeremy Darroch, Sky's Chief Executive, said: "This exciting new service will offer some of Sky's most popular content through a wide range of broadband connected devices. Alongside the continued growth of our satellite platform, this will be a new way for us to reach out to consumers who love great content, but may not want the full Sky service. Bringing a distinctive, new choice to the marketplace will help us meet the needs and demands of an ever wider range of consumers. "This new product launch will build on our early leadership in multi-platform distribution. It will allow us to make our expertise and investment in content and technology work even harder, extending our options for continued growth." END |
| Green Charge: an app that helps your EV talk to you (video) Posted: 30 Jan 2012 11:00 PM PST  The maker of PlugShare is determined to satisfy your EV needs with a new app that'll feed the data from your Leaf or Volt straight to your iOS device. GreenCharge monitors your battery data, charging speed, efficiency of recent journeys and environmental impact and keeps it to hand in handy graphical form. You can chart your price-per-mile (compared to using petrol) and monitor your environmental impact -- sending all this data to your friends over Facebook or Twitter. If you're considering dropping some cash on an EV but don't trust the salesman, sync it up to a demonstration vehicle and it'll give you the deep dish without any fluff. You'll be able to pick it up from the App store today for $10 (equal to three days gas, but then you did just save $1,000 on your new Volt) and if you're not convinced, we've got a cornucopia of treats to whet your appetite after the break. GreenCharge App for Electric Vehicle Enthusiasts Launches Today in the iOS App Store Mobile App Measures Real Time Environmental and Economic Impact of Electric Vehicles PALO ALTO, CA, Jan 31, 2012 – Xatori Inc., creators of PlugShare, the nation's largest electric vehicle charging network, today introduces its second product, GreenCharge. The mobile application allows users to view real time battery data and to see and share the environmental and monetary benefits of owning an electric vehicle. GreenCharge is available for $9.99, the average electricity cost of driving an electric vehicle 240 miles, the average distance an American drives in one week. The app is now available for download in the iTunes App Store for use on iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch devices. The GreenCharge app is a must-have utility for electric vehicle owners and those considering one. The app provides real time charging information by syncing directly with an eligible electric vehicle such as a Nissan LEAF or Chevy Volt. In addition, GreenCharge is the first and only app to connect driving data with local energy pricing to give personalized data about the cost of operating an electric car. EV owners can also see the environmental impact of driving in terms of carbon offset. By providing this information, GreenCharge empowers EV owners and enthusiasts alike to better understand and communicate the advantages of electric vehicles. With the GreenCharge app, users can: Seamlessly sync data from their Nissan LEAF or Chevrolet Volt Test out a demonstration vehicle to simulate driving and cost information if considering purchasing an EV Get real time charging, battery, and range information for their electric vehicles See their daily, weekly, and monthly driving broken down by mileage and price Share their daily, weekly, and monthly driving information on Twitter and Facebook, or via email. See how many pounds of CO2 emissions they have offset by driving an electric vehicle instead of a gasoline vehicle Compare savings from their electric vehicle to a traditional gasoline vehicle "I've talked to too many people who have been confused about the benefits and operating costs of an electric vehicle" said Forrest North, CEO of Xatori Inc. "We built GreenCharge to let EV owners understand their cars and educate others on the true environmental and monetary benefits of driving an electric vehicle." For more information please visit the website at www.greenchargeapp.com. About Xatori Inc. Xatori is a Palo Alto-based software company founded in 2010 that builds innovative software for electric vehicles and an enlightened electricity grid. CEO Forrest North was previously founder and CEO at Mission Motors and an engineer at Tesla Motors. CTO Armen Petrosian was previously an engineer at Amprius and on the Stanford Solar Car team. Advisors include Max Levchin (co-founder of PayPal and Slide) and Marc Tarpenning (co-founder of Tesla Motors). |
| ARM boosts profits by 45 percent, strengthens grip on the universe Posted: 30 Jan 2012 10:45 PM PST  |
| Apple hires former Dixons CEO John Browett as senior VP of Retail Posted: 30 Jan 2012 10:37 PM PST  John Browett Joins Apple as Senior Vice President of Retail CUPERTINO, California-January 30, 2012-Apple® today announced that John Browett will join the company as senior vice president of Retail, reporting to Apple CEO Tim Cook. Browett comes to Apple from European technology retailer Dixons Retail, where he has been CEO since 2007. Beginning in April, he will be responsible for Apple's retail strategy and the continued expansion of Apple retail stores around the world. "Our retail stores are all about customer service, and John shares that commitment like no one else we've met," said Tim Cook, Apple's CEO. "We are thrilled to have him join our team and bring his incredible retail experience to Apple." Prior to joining Dixons Retail, Browett held a series of executive positions at Tesco plc including CEO of Tesco.com. Earlier in his career he advised retail and consumer goods clients at Boston Consulting Group. He holds a degree in Natural Sciences from Cambridge University and an MBA from Wharton Business School. Apple designs Macs, the best personal computers in the world, along with OS X, iLife, iWork and professional software. Apple leads the digital music revolution with its iPods and iTunes online store. Apple has reinvented the mobile phone with its revolutionary iPhone and App Store, and is defining the future of mobile media and computing devices with iPad. |
| Koobe's Jin Yong Reader gets Mirasol, brings color to Taiwanese hearts Posted: 30 Jan 2012 09:42 PM PST  Koobe, Taiwan's Leading E-reader Manufacturer, and Qualcomm Bring mirasol Display Technology to Taiwan in Next-Generation E-reader - mirasol Display Capabilities Add Color and Interactivity to Improve User Experience for Renowned Jin Yong Branded Device - SAN DIEGO and TAIPEI, Taiwan - January 30, 2012 - Qualcomm MEMS Technologies Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Qualcomm Incorporated (NASDAQ: QCOM), and Koobe, Inc., a leading provider of e-reader solutions to the Taiwan market, today announced the next-generation Jin Yong Reader featuring mirasol® display technology at the Taipei International Book Fair, site of the original black and white Jin Yong Reader's first unveiling two years ago. Building on the success of the initial device, the next-generation Jin Yong Reader's use of mirasol display technology will deliver an improved customer reading experience, interactive touch screen capabilities, visibility even in bright sunlight and weeks of reading under typical usage.* "With Taiwan as home to Qualcomm MEMS Technologies' growing manufacturing base, it is significant for its consumers to experience the unmatched performance benefits of mirasol displays," said Clarence Chui, senior vice president and general manager of Qualcomm MEMS Technologies, Inc. "Koobe's next-generation Jin Yong Reader further demonstrates a growing global preference for e-readers that can display a variety of color and interactive content even in bright sunlight." The next-generation Jin Yong Reader, named after China's best-selling living author, comes preloaded with Jin Yong's acclaimed 15 novel set (compiled in 36 volumes) and includes access to Koobe's content libraries, which features thousands of novels, comics, interactive e-books, animated picture books and magazines. "Users of the Jin Yong Reader have come to expect a compelling reading experience in terms of both content and functionality," said Simon Hsu, general manager of Koobe, Inc. "By incorporating mirasol displays into this advanced version, we will offer our customers a new and compelling experience by adding color and interactive content without sacrificing outdoor visibility and battery life." The Jin Yong Reader features a 5.7" XGA format (1024 x 768 pixels) mirasol display (screen resolution of 223 ppi) and Qualcomm's 1.0 GHz Snapdragon™ S2 processor. Koobe's custom application interface sits atop an Android 2.3 base. * Battery life varies depending on usage and ambient light. Battery life based upon 30 minutes of daily reading time with Wi-Fi off and average integrated reading light brightness of 22 percent. About Koobe Founded in 2005 and based in Taiwan, Koobe is one of the leading e-reader solution providers serving the Greater China market. The company provides a complete e-reading and digital publishing solution for publishers, online bookstores, 3C branding companies and operators. The company identifies and distributes digital content from newspapers, magazines and books; and specializes in e-publishing software technology and hardware design for e-readers and other multipurpose devices. For more information, please visit http://www.koobe.com.tw/. About Qualcomm MEMS Technologies Inc. Qualcomm MEMS Technologies Inc. has drawn on the same color-producing process that makes a butterfly's wings shimmer to develop the revolutionary mirasol display technology. The mirasol display is the industry's first to use interferometric modulation (IMOD); a micro-electro-mechanical systems-based technology capable of creating color from ambient reflected light. Qualcomm's mirasol displays are bi-stable, energy efficient, offer refresh rates to support interactive content and are highly reflective, allowing for superb viewing quality in a wide range of environmental conditions, including bright sunlight. With applications in a variety of mobile devices, mirasol displays support Qualcomm's overall strategy of mobile innovation by enabling a compelling viewing experience with significantly less power. For more information, visit the mirasol displays website, our Blog or follow us on Facebook and Twitter. Qualcomm Incorporated (NASDAQ: QCOM) is the world leader in 3G and next-generation mobile technologies. For more than 25 years, Qualcomm ideas and inventions have driven the evolution of digital communications, linking people everywhere more closely to information, entertainment and each other. For more information, visit Qualcomm's website, OnQ blog, Twitter and Facebook pages. |
| Panasonic introduces Lumix DMC-ZS20 and ZS15 compact superzoom cameras Posted: 30 Jan 2012 08:00 PM PST  PANASONIC EXPANDS ITS POPULAR ZS-SERIES OF DIGITAL CAMERAS WITH NEW ADVANCED FEATURES AND CREATIVE SHOOTING OPTIONS PACKED IN A SLIM BODY Panasonic LUMIX ZS20 Features a 24mm Ultra-Wide-Angle Lens, a Powerful 20x Optical Zoom*1, Full-HD Video Recording and Built-In GPS Capabilities Secaucus, NJ (January, 31, 2012) - Panasonic today introduced the LUMIX DMC-ZS20 digital camera as the newest member of its acclaimed LUMIX ZS-Series, known for its powerful zoom, and wide-angle in a compact body, all while offering exceptional image quality. With an impressive 20x optical zoom, a 24mm ultra wide-angle LEICA DC VARIO-ELMAR lens and the ability to shoot full-High Definition (HD), the new LUMIX ZS20 builds on the Series' success and is an extremely versatile point-and-shoot model. With a newly-redesigned lens system, the LUMIX ZS20 features a new mechanical structure and optical system to further improve image quality and with Nano Surface Coating technology, the LUMIX ZS20 offers stunning image clarity with minimized ghosting and flare. Beyond the quality of its lens, the LUMIX ZS20 integrates an enhanced built-in GPS*2 functionality, making it easy for users to pinpoint locations where photos were taken and share with family and friends on internet maps. Map data can be installed onto the LUMIX ZS20 via a bundled DVD, giving the camera detailed worldwide maps of major regions on a scale of 1/25,000 or more precise. A user can copy the map data of a designated city to an SDXC/SDHC/SD Memory Card and get quick geographic information to know their location and if any landmarks are located nearby. More than one million landmarks and 82 countries/regions are covered in the bundled DVD map. Geo-tagged images are automatically sorted and can be played back along a map so that users can literally trace their photographic journey. Many GPS cameras show only the latitude and longitude of where a photo is taken, but the LUMIX ZS20 shows the name of the Country/Region, State/Prov./County, County/Township, City/Town/Village and Landmark – all of which is saved in the EXIF data. "Panasonic has long been the leader in developing compact digital cameras with long zooms and wide-angle lenses and with the introduction of the LUMIX ZS20, we continue to be in the forefront with an extremely versatile digital camera that meets the needs of all different types of photographers," said David Briganti, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Marketing Company of North America. "With an impressive 20x optical zoom and 24mm wide-angle lens, the ZS20 gives consumer the ability to capture a variety of different shots, all while carrying a digital camera that is slim enough to slip in a pocket or small purse. Plus with Panasonic's HD video recording capability and improved GPS functionality, the ZS20 is an excellent choice for consumers who want to fully capture the details of their memories." Featuring a newly developed 14.1-megapixel High Sensitivity MOS sensor, the LUMIX ZS20 is able to provide even higher image quality compared to its predecessors. Coupled with the advanced image processor Venus Engine, the LUMIX ZS20 features high speed, high sensitivity image recording. High speed burst shooting at 10 fps in full resolution and Light Speed AF allows users to capture even the most fleeting photo opportunities. With the ability to record high-resolution, full-HD 1,920 x 1,080 60p videos in AVCHD Progressive (MPEG-4) format (or 30p in MP4)*3, the LUMIX ZS20 upgrades its full-HD recording capability and is able to produce extremely clear video details, even when subjects are moving quickly. A powerful 20x optical zoom with 2-step Zoom function is available in video recording and the popular iA mode assists users, making video recording as easy as aiming the camera. A stereo zoom microphone provides videos with the high-quality stereo sound of Dolby® Digital Stereo Creator, offering highly realistic sound in the captured video. The Auto Wind Cut function helps to block out wind background noise making voices clearer, and mechanical noise caused by zooming is suppressed to improve overall video sound quality. In addition, the ZS20 has manual control options, allowing the user to adjust shutter speed and aperture, and 3D Photo Mode, the LUMIX ZS20 also features a variety of special effects that add fun to a photography shooting experience. Creative Control mode offers a selection of artistic effects including Expressive Retro, High Dynamic, Sepia, Dynamic Monochrome, High Key, Low Key, Miniature Effect, Toy Effect and Soft Focus. In Miniature Effect mode, the peripherals are defocused while saturation and contrast are emphasized to make the picture look like a diorama. Video recorded in this mode is played back in 10x fast-forwarding, making it comical to watch*4. Panorama mode makes it possible for users to shoot 360-degree horizontal or vertical panoramic images by taking consecutive shots and then overlay it for the effect of a panoramic photo. Creative Retouch mode offers users six filters – Toy Effect, Soft Focus, Dynamic Monochrome, Expressive, High Key and Retro – to create artistic looking photos. Additionally, the Auto Retouch function automatically adjusts contrast and brightness for a clearer, more natural image and can be applied with the simple press of a button. For users looking for a more intuitive photo experience, the LUMIX ZS20 features iA (Intelligent Auto) mode, which automatically activates a range of technologies to enhance photos without adjusting settings every time conditions change. The new HDR (High Dynamic Range) together with POWER O.I.S. with Active Mode, which suppresses blur from hand-shake, AF Tracking, Intelligent ISO Control, Face Recognition, Intelligent Scene Selector, Intelligent Handheld Nightshot, Motion Deblur mode, Intelligent Burst mode and Intelligent Exposure allows users to point and shoot, leaving the camera to do all the work in capturing beautiful imagery. Additional features and functionalities of the LUMIX ZS20 include: Large, 3.0-inch 460,000-dot Smart Touch LCD Screen Touch AF, Touch Zoom or Touch Shutter during recording and various playback functions like scrolling the map with high visibility. Flexibility of USB charging or conventional AC adapter charging methods. LUMIX Image Uploader for seamless and instant sharing via Facebook or YouTube. Users can checkmark the photo or video files they want to share, connect it to a PC with the included USB cable or by inserting the SD Memory Card directly into the PC's SD Card slot, and then the uploading automatically launches with an easy-to-follow menu option. Also introduced today, the LUMIX DMC-ZS15 features a versatile 24mm ultra-wide angle and powerful 16x optical zoom LEICA DC VARIO-ELMAR lens (24-383mm on 35mm camera equivalent) with 32x Intelligent Zoom. Other features include: 12.1-megapixel High Sensitivity MOS Sensor Full HD Video Recording in 60i AVCHD*5 and 30p in MP4 Monaural Microphone Large, 3.0-inch 460,000-dot Intelligent LCD The LUMIX ZS20 and ZS15 will be available in March 2012 for a suggested retail price of $349.99 and $279.99 respectively. The LUMIX ZS20 will be available in black, red, white, and silver options; while the LUMIX ZS15 will be available in black and silver. For more on these Panasonic LUMIX models, please visit HYPERLINK "http://www.panasonic.com/lumix" www.panasonic.com/lumix. |
| Panasonic adds Lumix DMC-TS4 and DMC-TS20 to ruggedized camera line Posted: 30 Jan 2012 08:00 PM PST  The TS4 may offer a respectable spec list, but it doesn't come cheap. The TS20 is an attractive alliterative, however, with a slim profile, 16.1 megapixel sensor, 720p HD shooting, a 4x 25-100mm optically stabilized zoom lens and a 2.7-inch LCD. It's waterproof to 16 feet, freezeproof to 14 degrees Fahrenheit and can survive drops from up to five feet. There's no manual option on this lower-end model, but it does include Panasonic's Intelligent Auto mode for more accurate shooting. The TS20 will ship in late-February in orange, blue, black and red for $180, while the flagship TS4 will be available in orange, blue, black and silver for $400 when it ships in mid-March. You'll find both press releases after the break. PANASONIC'S NEW TOP-OF-THE-LINE RUGGED DIGITAL CAMERA FEATURES GPS*1 AND FULL-HD VIDEO RECORDING CAPABILITIES The LUMIX TS4, the Optimal Outdoor Companion, Combines a GPS, Compass, Altimeter, Barometer with Waterproof*2, Shockproof*3 and Freezeproof Features, Allowing it to Excel in Photo and Video Capture Under Many Conditions SECAUCUS, NJ (January 31, 2012) – Panasonic today announced the LUMIX DMC-TS4, the company's top-of-the-line rugged digital camera with features such as a built-in GPS*1 system, compass, altimeter, barometer, plus outstanding toughness, including: waterproof*2 to approximately 40 feet (12 meters), shockproof*3 to approximately 6.6 feet (2 meters), freezeproof to temperatures as low as 14ºF, and dustproof*2. Beyond its rugged design, the LUMIX TS4 also excels in photo and video quality, offering the best of both worlds with a LEICA DC VARIO-ELMAR lens with a 4.6x optical zoom (35mm equivalent: 28-128mm), a 12.1-megapixel Hi-Speed CCD sensor and the advanced image processing LSI Venus Engine, and the ability to shoot 1,920 x 1,080 full-High Definition (HD) video in AVCHD and MP4 formats. "The LUMIX TS4 is the latest addition to our successful line of rugged digital cameras, which offer users the freedom to take high-quality photos and video under a variety of conditions thanks to a design that is waterproof, dustproof, shockproof and freezeproof. Plus, with added GPS and compass capabilities, the TS4 is the perfect travel companion," said David Briganti, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Marketing Company of North America. "Beyond its top-of-the-line rugged features, the LUMIX TS4 captures exceptional photos and videos, also making it the ideal "worry-free" everyday digital camera for those life mishaps, like an accidental drop or a spilled drink." The LUMIX TS4 is ideal for active outdoor use and the altimeter works as an indicator for depth underwater. The barometer log is available to help users forecast the climate and then log the barometric trends. The altitude measurements can be improved when using the camera's GPS data, which is enhanced when compared to its predecessor, the LUMIX DMC-TS3. The new GPS system has more than a million landmarks and 82 countries/regions covered in the maps available on the bundled DVD. Geo-tagged images are automatically sorted and can be played back along a map so that users can literally trace their photographic journey. The LUMIX TS4 shows the name of the Country/Region, State/Prov./County, County/Township, City/Town/Village and Landmark – all which is saved in the EXIF data. Thanks to its high-speed, large-capacity signal processing Venus Engine, the LUMIX TS4 is not just rugged on the outside, but powerful from within as well. The Venus Engine integrates advanced signal processing capabilities to power Intelligent Noise Reduction, thus producing stunning still photos and videos. In addition, the Venus Engine powers high-speed burst shooting and super-fast response times, with Sonic Speed AF, allowing the user to catch those spur-of-the-moment memories. New to the LUMIX TS-Series, the LUMIX TS4 offers users manual operation, allowing adjustment of shutter speed and aperture for more creative photography. Plus, with modes such as Time Lapse Shot, Miniature Effect, and Panorama Shot – photography is even more fun. With the Time Lapse Shot, once the start time, interval and the number of photos to shoot are set, the camera automatically records the images based on the settings and the LUMIX TS4 can be left to record stationary subjects, such as flowers coming into bloom, clouds, or an animal. Once the data is captured, during playback the footage is condensed to give a unique sense of time. The Miniature Effect mode, in which the peripheries are defocused while saturation and contrast is emphasized, makes the photo look like a diorama. For videos recorded in this mode*4, playback is 10x fast forward, making it comical and amusing to watch. Panorama Shot makes it is possible to shoot a maximum 360-degree of horizontal / vertical panoramic image by taking consecutive shots and overlaying the photos. For those who are looking for an intuitive shooting option, the LUMIX TS4 includes Panasonic's popular iA (Intelligent Auto) mode – a suite of technologies that are automatically engaged to allow the camera to select the most appropriate settings to take high-quality photos and videos. Plus, a dedicated video record lets the user instantly start recording videos while shooting photos without having to go through any additional menu options. The Panasonic LUMIX TS4 will be available in orange, blue, black and silver options in mid-March 2012 with a suggested retail price of $399.99. For more information on Panasonic LUMIX digital cameras, visit HYPERLINK "http://www.panasonic.com/lumix" www.panasonic.com/lumix. ___________________________________________________________________ PANASONIC INTRODUCES ENTRY-LEVEL RUGGED DIGITAL CAMERA THAT IS WATERPROOF, SHOCKPROOF AND DUSTPROOF The Panasonic LUMIX TS20, With a Slim Profile, Also Shoots HD Video SECAUCUS, NJ (January 31, 2012) – Panasonic today announced the Panasonic LUMIX TS20 digital camera, which features a rugged design allowing for it to be waterproof*1 to approximately 16 feet (5 meters), shockproof*2 to approximately 5 feet (1.5 meters), dustproof*1 and freezeproof to temperatures as low as 14ºF. The LUMIX TS20 (16.1-megapixel) features a flat and slim profile with a 25mm ultra-wide-angle lens and a 4x optical zoom (35mm equivalent: 25-100mm). Even more, the LUMIX TS20's zoom extends to 8x equivalent with the Intelligent Zoom function, made possible by Panasonic's Intelligent Resolution technology. The LUMIX TS20 can shoot 720p High Definition video in the MP4 format and the 4x optical zoom is available during video recording – making this digital camera a highly-capable model for shooting video. Plus, with a dedicated video record button, switching between still photos and videos is quick and seamless. The new LUMIX TS20 records dynamic HD video in 1280 x 720p at a smooth 30p MP4 format, which makes it easy for editing or sharing the videos. The recorded videos can be also directly uploaded to YouTube when the included software is installed. The LUMIX TS20 also features a 2.7-inch Intelligent LCD with High Angle mode. "The Panasonic LUMIX TS20 is an affordable rugged digital camera ideal for any user who is looking for a slim, durable digital camera that can take high quality photos and HD videos in a variety of situations, such as at a beach, hiking, snowboarding and more," said David Briganti, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Marketing Company of North America. "Thanks to its waterproof, shockproof and dustproof features, the TS20 is capable of capturing photos and videos that not many digital cameras can, and with iA, it's also incredibly easy and intuitive to use." The LUMIX TS20 includes Panasonic's popular iA (Intelligent Auto) mode – a suite of technologies that are automatically engaged without the use of any extra settings to allow the camera to select the most appropriate settings to take high-quality photos. Panasonic's iA features included in the LUMIX TS20 are MEGA O.I.S., AF Tracking, Intelligent ISO Control, Face Recognition, Intelligent Scene Selector and Intelligent Exposure. In addition to being easy to use, The LUMIX TS20 also includes features that increase the photographic fun and creativity of the user. The Miniature Effect mode, in which the peripheries are defocused while saturation and contrast is emphasized, makes the photo look like a diorama. For videos recorded in this mode*3 3 playback is 10x fast forward, making it comical and amusing to watch. Panorama Shot makes it is possible to shoot a maximum 360-degree of horizontal / vertical panoramic image by taking consecutive shots and overlaying the photos. The Panasonic LUMIX DMC-TS20 will be available in late-February 2012 in orange, blue, black and red models for a suggested retail price of $179.99. For more information about Panasonic LUMIX digital cameras, please visit HYPERLINK "http://www.panasonic.com/lumix" www.panasonic.com/lumix. |
| Panasonic announces pricing for entry-level Lumix CES point-and-shoots Posted: 30 Jan 2012 08:00 PM PST 
PANASONIC ANNOUNCES PRICING FOR ITS LUMIX POINT-AND-SHOOT MODELS INTRODUCED AT THE 2012 CONSUMER ELECTRONICS SHOW SECAUCUS, NJ (January 31, 2012) – Panasonic today announces pricing for its LUMIX DMC-SZ7, DMC-SZ1, DMC-FH8, DMC-FH6 and DMC-S2 digital cameras, all of which will be available early March 2012. All five compact digital camera models are an ideal balance of style and performance while featuring High Definition (HD) video recording-capabilities as well as Panasonic's popular iA mode, making it easy for users to capture high-quality images with just the click of a button. The DMC-SZ7, available in black, will have a suggested retail price (SRP) of $199.99 and features a 25mm ultra-wide-angle LEICA DC VARIO-ELMAR lens, 10x optical zoom, full-HD 1920x1080 video recording and Light Speed AF for a super-fast focus response time of approximately 0.1 second. The DMC-SZ1 will be available in black, silver, red and blue with an SRP of $179.99 and also includes a 25mm ultra-wide angle LEICA DC VARIO-ELMAR lens, 10x optical zoom and 720p HD video recording capabilities. The DMC-FH8 with an SRP of $149.99 and available in silver, black and violet models, and the DMC-FH6 with an SRP of $129.99, and available in black only, are designed specifically for low light situations. Both the 16.1-megapixel LUMIX FH8 and the 14.1-megapixel FH6 feature slim, compact stylish designs. In addition to their excellent high-quality still photo capabilities, both models can record 720p High Definition (HD) video. Equipped with a 24mm ultra-wide angle LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMARIT lens, the LUMIX FH8 and FH6 offer an incredible 5x optical zoom with f2.5 brightness. The LUMIX FH8 records HD video in MP4 format and incorporates a dedicated video button, while the LUMIX FH6 shoots HD video in Motion JPEG. The LUMIX S2 will have an SRP of $109.99 and has advanced features, including a 28mm wide-angle LUMIX DC VARIO lens with 4x optical zoom, Sonic Speed Auto-Focus and MEGA O.I.S to help reduce blurry photos. The 14.1-megapixel camera has 720p HD video recording capabilities plus Panorama and Auto Retouch Mode to further enhance photos. The LUMIX S2 features a 2.7-inch Intelligent LCD as well as a high-speed, high-performance Venus Engine and will be available in black, pink and violet. For more information on Panasonic's line of 2012 LUMIX digital cameras, please visit www.panasonic.com/lumix. |
| Samsung brings us more to love, offers Galaxy Note engraving in South Korea Posted: 30 Jan 2012 07:04 PM PST 
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| APK puts Windows 95, 98 and XP, plus Linux on the EVO 3D Posted: 30 Jan 2012 06:12 PM PST  |
| BOXX electric bike: two wheels, four corners, all-electric transport for one Posted: 30 Jan 2012 05:27 PM PST  |
| T-Mobile to tighten the purse strings, limit data roaming starting April 5th Posted: 30 Jan 2012 04:43 PM PST  |
| Nanotech-enhanced 'smart paint' promises to detect structural damage Posted: 30 Jan 2012 03:58 PM PST  We've seen scientists explore a number of ways to make paint "smarter" over the years, and now a team of researchers at the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow have devised a method that they say could do nothing short of "revolutionize structural safety." The key to that is some novel nanotechnology that effectively turns the paint into a sensor network that's able to detect minor structural faults before they become a severe problem. More specifically, the paint consists of a mix of highly aligned carbon nanotubes and a recycled waste material known as fly ash -- when the nanotubes bend, the conductivity changes, indicating that there could be a structural problem developing. What's more, the fly ash is also said to give the paint a cement-like structure, which the researchers say could let it be used in harsh conditions where traditional structural monitoring can prove difficult (and expensive). Smart paint could revolutionize structural safety An innovative low-cost smart paint that can detect microscopic faults in wind turbines, mines and bridges before structural damage occurs is being developed by researchers at the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow, Scotland. The environmentally-friendly paint uses nanotechnology to detect movement in large structures, and could shape the future of safety monitoring. Traditional methods of assessing large structures are complex, time consuming and use expensive instrumentation, with costs spiraling into millions of pounds each year. However, the smart paint costs just a fraction of the cost and can be simply sprayed onto any surface, with electrodes attached to detect structural damage long before failure occurs. Dr Mohamed Saafi, of the University's Department of Civil Engineering, said: "The development of this smart paint technology could have far-reaching implications for the way we monitor the safety of large structures all over the world. "There are no limitations as to where it could be used and the low-cost nature gives it a significant advantage over the current options available in the industry. The process of producing and applying the paint also gives it an advantage as no expertise is required and monitoring itself is straightforward." The paint is formed using a recycled waste product known as fly ash and highly aligned carbon nanotubes. When mixed it has a cement-like property which makes it particularly useful in harsh environments. Dr Saafi explained: "The process of monitoring involves in effect a wireless sensor network. The paint is interfaced with wireless communication nodes with power harvesting and warning capability to remotely detect any unseen damage such as micro-cracks in a wind turbine concrete foundation. "Wind turbine foundations are currently being monitored through visual inspections. The developed paint with the wireless monitoring system would significantly reduce the maintenance costs and improve the safety of these large structures. "Current technology is restricted to looking at specific areas of a structure at any given time, however, smart paint covers the whole structure which is particularly useful to maximise the opportunity of preventing significant damage." The research has been carried out at Strathclyde with Dr Saafi working alongside David McGahon, who initiated the work as part of his PhD project. With fly ash being the main material used to make the paint, it costs just one percent of the alternative widely used inspection methods. A prototype has been developed and tests have shown the paint to be highly effective. It is hoped further tests will be carried out in Glasgow in the near future. Dr Saafi added: "We are able to carry out the end-to-end process at the University and we are hoping that we can now demonstrate its effectiveness on a large structure. "The properties of the fly ash give the paint a durability that will allow it to be used in any environment which will be a massive advantage in areas where the weather can make safety monitoring particularly difficult. "The smart paint represents a significant development and is one that has possibly been overlooked as a viable solution because research tends to focus on high-tech options that look to eliminate human control. Our research shows that by maintaining the human element the costs can be vastly reduced without an impact on effectiveness." |
| Lenovo ThinkPad Tablet joining the Ice Cream Sandwich party in Q2? Posted: 30 Jan 2012 03:25 PM PST  Wondering who's next in line to promise a tasty Ice Cream Sandwich update? According to PC World, Lenovo has said that it plans on bringing the latest and greatest from the Android platform to its ThinkPad Tablet sometime during Q2 of this year. As we've become accustomed to of late, Lenovo joins other fellow manufacturers on the pledge to update its devices to ICS. Unfortunately, there's no details past its estimated second quarter availability, so while we know you're eager to get your hands on the holo-coated upgrade, you'll have to keep waiting like the rest of the frowning pack. |
| Canalys: Apple leading PC maker in Q4 2011, if you count iPads Posted: 30 Jan 2012 02:50 PM PST  Best quarter in Apple's history? Check. Retaking the smartphone crown from Samsung? Check. How about becoming the world's largest PC manufacturer? If you're Canalys and you factor iPads into the equation, then yes, another check. Per the research firm, "client PCs" (which include "desktops, netbooks, notebooks and tabs") grew by 16 percent to hit 120 million in Q4, from which Apple's 20 million units (15 million iPads + 5 million Macs) grabbed the leading 17 percent share. Cupertino's followed by HP, Lenovo, Dell and Acer in that order -- all of whom, save for Lenovo, saw their piece of the PC pie shrink. Not only did their slices shrink, but without slates the entire tart was .4 percent smaller than last year -- meaning that all of the growth in "client PC" segment was due to tablets. With that kind of statistical precedence Windows 8 can't come soon enough, right Stevie B? Apple storms past HP to lead global PC market - 120 million PCs shipped globally in Q4 2011, up 16% year-on-year Palo Alto, Singapore and Reading – Monday, 30 January 2012 Canalys today announced that Apple, after reporting stellar results, became the leading worldwide client PC vendor in Q4 2011. Apple shipped over 15 million iPads and five million Macs, representing 17% of the total 120 million client PCs shipped globally in Q4. Overall, the total client PC market, including desktops, netbooks, notebooks, and pads grew 16% year-on-year. Excluding pads, the client PC market declined 0.4%. The floods in Thailand, that impacted hard drive assembly plants, caused mild disruption to shipments during the quarter, but the side effects are likely to be felt in the first half of 2012. Among the other top five PC vendors, only Lenovo managed to increase its market share, by a relatively modest two points, compared to Apple's six-point gain over the same quarter a year ago. Acer, Dell and HP – the hardest hit – all lost market share. Now the second largest client PC vendor worldwide, HP will struggle to compete with Apple following the end of its Touchpad. "Currently, HP is pursuing a Windows strategy for its pad portfolio, producing enterprise-focused products, such as the recently launched Slate 2, until the launch of Windows 8," said Canalys Analyst Tim Coulling. "However, questions remain over Microsoft's entry into the consumer pad space. While early demonstrations of the Window 8 operating system seem promising, Microsoft must focus its efforts on creating an intuitive user experience that is far less resource intensive." Lenovo continued to close the gap on HP, thanks to successful investment outside of core markets. The acquisition of Medion in Germany helped Lenovo double its shipments in Western Europe during the second half of 2011. The vendor's decision to use Android for enterprise and consumer pads gives it a better opportunity than HP to continue gaining market share. Dell placed fourth among the top five PC vendors, followed by Acer. Acer's shipments continued to decline, as a result of the pad's impact on the netbook market. It did, however, make headlines at the 2012 International Consumer Electronics Show in January, when it revealed its S5 Ultrabook. Unsurprisingly, Acer and other vendors have been quick to announce their support for the new Ultrabook form factor, with the view of driving innovation and renewed customer interest in notebooks. "We expect Ultrabook volumes to see limited adoption through the first half of 2012, before finally gaining momentum later in the year as price points decline and Intel launches a new line of processors and embarks on an aggressive marketing campaign," said Canalys Research Analyst Michael Kauh. "In the short term though, vendors will experience more pressure in the netbook and notebook segments, especially with Apple's annual iPad refresh approaching." Pads accounted for 22% of total PC shipments during Q4 2011. In addition to Apple's strong performance, the Amazon Kindle Fire and the Nook Tablet by Barnes and Noble boosted volumes in the U.S. market, allowing both vendors to claim spots among the top five worldwide pad makers, in second and fifth place respectively. All regions grew year-on-year with the inclusion of pads. Excluding pads, however, shipments in Europe, Middle East and Africa and North America declined, due to weaker consumer demand in Western Europe and the United States, despite the traditional Q4 sales periods. Vendors and channel partners took a cautious approach to inventory levels in Q4, as many had expected a slow quarter. Notebook volumes grew slightly, at approximately 1% in these regions, but continued their impressive rise in Asia Pacific and Latin America, as more consumers embraced mobile computing. "The consumerization of IT continues to be a significant disruptive force in the PC industry, but many of the leading vendors have failed to capitalize on the trend to date," said Coulling. "This year will be a pivotal year for those vendors that were slow to launch pads. It is not just the product that they need to get right, business models are equally important - driving revenues from content delivery can help vendors reach lower price points in a market that is incredibly price sensitive." About Canalys Canalys delivers smart market insights to IT, channel, and service provider professionals around the world. Our customer-driven analysis and consulting services empower businesses to make informed decisions and generate sales. We stake our reputation on the quality of our data, our innovative use of technology, and our high level of customer service. |
| SlingPlayer for Kindle Fire available tomorrow for $30 in the Amazon Appstore Posted: 30 Jan 2012 02:43 PM PST  |
| Microsoft begins Office 15 technical preview, fills up before you knew it existed Posted: 30 Jan 2012 02:26 PM PST  Everybody calm... we know, we're excited too. We're just dying to see the latest in spreadsheet and presentation technology. But, for now, you'll just have to wait as the technical preview for Microsoft's next version of Office is all filled up. What exactly Redmond has in store for us it wont say but, it's not shying away from hyperbole, declaring it "the most ambitious undertaking yet for the Office Division." Primarily we assume that's because every arrow in the Office quiver is being updated simultaneously, including desktop, mobile and web apps, Visio, Lync and its countless other peripheral programs. Don't draw a warm bath and grab a straight razor, though -- you'll get a chance to play with all the updated products when they enter public beta this summer. |
| Must See HDTV (January 30th - February 5th) Posted: 30 Jan 2012 02:03 PM PST  Star Trek: The Next Generation - The Next Level One of the best science fiction series ever returns, this week, remastered and in HD. Check after the break for a video splitscreen showing off the original video crossed over with the new special effects, which were recomposited back on top of the original film negatives for what seems to be an incredible new experience. Not every revisitation in the past has gotten a positive reception, but it appears this is one fans will enjoy. The release this week is a quick three episode teaser of what's to come, the full meal of season one is still on the way later this year. (January 31st, $14.99 on Amazon) Super Bowl XLVI *Cough* (February 5th, NBC, 6PM) I Just Want My Pants Back Yet another young adult dramedy on MTV, but after the solid efforts of RJ Berger and Awkward (we're going to pretend the ill-fated port of Skins never happened) it may be worth a shot. The title comes from the main character, who is left looking for his pants which were taken by a particularly special one night stand that he's trying to find in the big city. Yeah. (February 2nd, MTV, 11PM) Blu-ray & Games
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