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- Visualized: iOS 2011 sales smoke 28 years of Mac
- Nikon D4 and D800 to ship in March, but only in the land of the baguette?
- Amazon elbows past Samsung for No. 2 tablet spot in Q4, Apple's iPad still No. 1
- CM9 for TouchPad gains access to nightly builds
- Lego Minecraft available for pre-order, one block short of $35 (video)
- Microsoft reveals Windows 8's new logo: 'It's a window... not a flag'
- Angry Birds Space announced for March 22nd release, NASA and National Geographic lending a hand
- Apple readies $10,000 prize for 25 billionth app milestone
- Huawei Ascend G 300 doesn't settle down at the FCC as it's only for tourists
- Onkyo debuts new entry level receivers, HTIBs for 2012
- Amazon's second-gen, possibly larger Kindle Fire to set off at end of Q2?
- FCC rules VoIP providers must report outages in effort to improve 911 service
- New Swype beta fulfills the Ice Cream Sandwich promise
- PSA: Can your machine run Mountain Lion?
- iOS 5.1 leaked, bringing new unlock-to-camera action, more cultured Siri?
- Distro Issue 28: A slew of device reviews and a look back at CP+ 2012
- Samsung's new SD cards look too good to hide inside a DSLR
- More HTC Endeavor whispers: SLCD display, thin chassis, 32GB and no microSD
- Nevada is getting serious about driverless cars
- Acer Iconia Tab family to be given Ice Cream Sandwich treatment, rolling out to A200 now
- WSJ: Safari loophole lets Google track Apple users through web ads
- NHTSA issues "distraction guidelines" proposal for in-vehicle electronics, MyFord Touch frets
- Humble Bundle Mojam happens this weekend: vote on a game, see it made in 60 hours for charity
- Auraslate opens Android tablets up to developers, welcomes mischief
- WinZip comes to iOS, doesn't nag you to register
- Razer ready to dump massive mounds of Mass Effect 3 gear on an unsuspecting public
- Renesas MP5232 SoC promises dual-core processing and LTE connectivity for less cash
- Tranquil PC Skinny Ripper is a slim music-archiving server
- Doodle Defense game uses Kinect to turn white boards into displays, dry-erase markers into weapons
- Kraftwerk performing 3D-enhanced retrospective concerts over 8 nights at MoMA
- HBO Go rolls out to most Samsung Smart HDTVs -- but not through all providers
- Google files patent app for unlocking devices, says we don't need no stinking slide-to-unlock
- Lehmann Aviation's LFPV UAV packs GPS, autopilot, 11MP cam, 1080p video, yours for $2,352
- Barclays releases Pingit mobile payments app, we go hands-on
- BBC 3D London Olympics plans include one live sporting event, daily highlights
- Samsung's 2012 HDTV family prices leaked?
- Clearwire says it plans on launching TD-LTE network by June 2013
- Insert Coin: Alarm clock makes you enter a code to silence it, in another room (video)
- The Engadget Podcast is live tonight at 5PM!
- Sony promo lets PS Vita, PS3 hold hands for cross-platform play, because sharing is caring
| Visualized: iOS 2011 sales smoke 28 years of Mac Posted: 17 Feb 2012 10:40 AM PST  Love it or hate it, Apple had a pretty stellar 2011. According to crunched numbers from Asymco, between its iPhone, iPad and iPod touch, the Cupertino outfit sold some 156 million iOS devices in 2011 (37 million of which came this past quarter), marking a grand total of 316 million in the mobile OS' short history. What's most interesting here, however, is the fact that last year's digits alone have completely blown past the 122 million units daddy Mac has managed in its 28 years of existence. It's no wonder the company borrowed a few tricks from iOS for its latest desktop operating system. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Nikon D4 and D800 to ship in March, but only in the land of the baguette? Posted: 17 Feb 2012 09:57 AM PST  | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Amazon elbows past Samsung for No. 2 tablet spot in Q4, Apple's iPad still No. 1 Posted: 17 Feb 2012 09:51 AM PST  Amazon had some serious trombone action going on last year -- what with all the horn tooting it did about Kindle Fire demand. Turns out Amazon was on to something, as the company officially grabbed the No. 2 spot from Samsung for tablet sales in the last quarter. Amazon sold 3.89 million tablets during the fourth quarter, eclipsing Samsung's 2.14 million units. The numbers equal a 14 percent share of the tablet market for Amazon while Samsung grabbed an 8 percent share, down from 11 percent in the third quarter. The brisk sales came at a price for Amazon, which saw fourth-quarter profits drop since it sold Kindle Fire tablets at a loss. Amazon's tablet sales also were still below the 15.4 million iPads sold by Apple for the period. All the competition is apparently taking a bite out of Apple's juicy market share, however, which fell to 62 percent in 2011, compared to 87 percent in 2010. Samsung did manage to hold on to the No. 2 spot for the year, but with rumors already swirling about new LTE and 8-inch iPads plus the Galaxy Note 10.1, the tablet wars aren't likely to cool off anytime soon. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| CM9 for TouchPad gains access to nightly builds Posted: 17 Feb 2012 09:28 AM PST  | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Lego Minecraft available for pre-order, one block short of $35 (video) Posted: 17 Feb 2012 09:04 AM PST  | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Microsoft reveals Windows 8's new logo: 'It's a window... not a flag' Posted: 17 Feb 2012 08:42 AM PST  Microsoft is making plenty of big changes with its Windows 8 operating system, and that has now also extended to a new logo. As explained by Microsoft's Sam Moreau in a post on the official Windows blog, the logo was created with the help of the design agency Pentagram, which posed a simple question when it began on the project: "your name is Windows. Why are you a flag?" That discussion eventually led to the four-paned window you see above, which not only looks more like a window than the previous logos, but clearly echoes the company's new Metro design language. Microsoft also notes that the logo is "authentically digital," and says it will welcome you with a slight tilt and change color based on your desktop. You can see a bigger version after the break, and read the full story of its creation (along with a look back at past logos) at the source link below.  | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Angry Birds Space announced for March 22nd release, NASA and National Geographic lending a hand Posted: 17 Feb 2012 08:41 AM PST  Angry Birds has spawned countless ports and two sorta-sequels, but Rovio has now announced what it's describing as its biggest launch since the original game. Angry Birds Space will be released on March 22nd, and the company has enlisted NASA and National Geographic as launch partners for the game (exactly what that entails is still unclear, though). As you can probably guess, the hook this time around will be some new physics to deal with, including zero gravity and a new "lightspeed destruction" feature, but details on the game itself otherwise remain a bit light, including any specific word on supported platforms. Rovio is apparently planning a big push at launch though, with a simultaneous rollout planned across "mobile gaming, animation, retail, and publishing." It's also promising to reveal more details ahead of that in early March. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Apple readies $10,000 prize for 25 billionth app milestone Posted: 17 Feb 2012 08:30 AM PST
It keeps growing. More downloads, more hard-to-comprehend milestones. This time, Apple's gearing up to hit its 25 billionth app download and it's got another $10,000 prize for the lucky soul that claims that very app. The App Store doubled its download count in the last year -- and then some -- so it's got good reason to be in a celebratory mood. To enter, you can either go grab yourself an app or enter via the prize form below. $10,000 for a random download? Count us in. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Huawei Ascend G 300 doesn't settle down at the FCC as it's only for tourists Posted: 17 Feb 2012 07:53 AM PST  Huawei was cycling past the FCC's ominous Washington bunker and dropped off a basket of muffins and its latest phone. The Ascend G 300 U8815 is the latest handset to undergo the Area-51 style autopsy by our boys in blue. Sadly they weren't feeling generous enough to take the usual array of pictures, so we've had to do with pouring through the test reports. We've gleaned that it's running GSM 850/1900 and 900/2100 3G bands as well as the usual WiFi 802.11 b/g/n and Bluetooth gear. Those who know your bands will have noticed that the phone isn't compatible with the 3G in the us, so it probably won't arrive on sale on these shores -- except in the shirt pocket of the odd trans-continental traveler. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Onkyo debuts new entry level receivers, HTIBs for 2012 Posted: 17 Feb 2012 07:29 AM PST  Onkyo Redefines "Entry Level" with 4 Heavy-Hitting AVRs UPPER SADDLE RIVER, NJ (2/13/12) -- Onkyo, the leader in home theater technology, has announced the first four new AV receivers for its 2012 line, including three with network capability, including one with THX certification. All have USB connections and additional HDMI® inputs. The line also includes the world's first AV receivers to employ Silicon Image's InstaPrevue™ and Mobile High-Definition Link (MHL) technologies. Furthermore, the three network capable models are the world's first AVRs to include music 'cloud server' access via MP3tunes™. The four new models are the Onkyo TX-NR616 THX-Certified 7.2-Channel Network Receiver, TX-NR515 7.2-Channel Network Receiver, TX-NR414 5.1-Channel Network Receiver, and TX-SR313 5.1-Channel Home Theater Receiver. Onkyo's powerful WRAT (Wide Range Amplifier Technology) is now implemented throughout the line. This low negative-feedback topology reduces signal noise and guarantees superb performance with minimal distortion. Even the entry model TX-SR313, Onkyo now uses this discrete-component output stage rather than lower cost integrated circuit amplifiers. The TX-NR616 is most powerful model in this release, and it is backed by a THX® Select2 Plus™ guarantee of cinema-quality sound. Achieving this demanding certification standard for audio quality is made possible partly by the use of Onkyo's three-stage inverted Darlington circuitry. The TX-NR616, along with the TX-NR515 and TX-NR414 are the world's first to include InstaPrevue, which provides on-screen video thumbnails to show the content currently available on HDMI-connected components making input source selection easy. The TX-NR616 and TX-NR515 are also the first to include MHL, an interface protocol that facilitates the playback of 1080p video and stills with 7.1 channels of surround sound over HDMI from MHL compatible smartphones and other portable devices. Whether using the hard-wired Ethernet connection or wireless networking via an optional Onkyo UWF-1 Wireless USB adapter, these network receivers allow users to enjoy a vast selection of internet radio stations, stream from services such as Spotify or MP3tunes 'Cloud' services or connect to computers and other devices on the network. Users can control all network AVRs with an iPod touch®/iPhone® or Android phone with a free Remote App. A slick GUI makes setting up, controlling input sources, and streaming music from the handset (Android phone only) a stress-free experience. The front-panel USB port on all four receivers also provides a direct digital connection of an iPod®/iPhone® or flash-memory device. The TX-NR515 and TX-NR616 have an additional USB port on the rear panel that can be used for the optional UWF-1 adapter leaving the front-side USB free for iPod and iPhone. The TX-NR616 and TX-NR515 also offer superior video performance thanks to on-board Qdeo™ processing technology by Marvell. This provides analog video upscaling to 1080p, and up to 4K (4096 x 2160 pixels) scaling when used with a compatible 4K display. When it comes to home theater audio, these two 7.2 channel models feature Dolby® Pro Logic® IIz expansion to incorporate Front Height channels, and to convert stereo sources to surround sound. The TX-NR616 also includes Audyssey DSX expansion for additional Front Wide or Height channels. Both systems provide a more realistic movie or gaming experience. Users can also connect two subwoofers via parallel pre-outs in a 7.2-channel set-up. Naturally, Audyssey 2EQ room acoustic correction ensures the best possible performance in any listening space. To help support the increasing numbers of HDMI devices available, Onkyo has given the TX-SR313 four HDMI inputs while the TX-NR414 sports six. All support 3D video, Dolby® TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio™ decoding and ARC all through an easy-to-use interactive OSD. The top models incorporate eight inputs plus two outputs for connecting a TV and a projector. A 'Q' remote button overlays a 'Quick Set-Up' menu on the program being watched via HDMI. Furthermore, Hybrid Standby allows HDMI pass-through to the HDTV while the receiver is off, allowing the user to quickly catch the news, weather, or kids' TV without powering up the whole home theater system. All models have connections for legacy analog and digital audio technology. Additionally, the TX-NR515 offers distributed audio with Powered Zone 2, while the TX-NR616 adds Powered Zone 2 and a Zone 3 line-out. Later this year, Onkyo plans to release the UBT-1 USB Bluetooth Adaptor which will allow even better integration between electronic devices and Onkyo network receivers. These four receivers redefine the kinds of features and performance the consumer can expect at the entry level, and show Onkyo to be driving the industry forward with innovation, imagination, and style. The TX-NR616 will be available in April with a suggested retail price of $699; the TX-NR515, TX-NR414 and TX-SR313 will all be available in March at suggested retail prices of $599, $499 and $299, respectively. . About Onkyo Since 1946 Onkyo has been passionately committed to developing audio products that deliver uncommon performance, quality and value. Bundling proprietary technologies and innovations with other sound-enhancing exclusives, Onkyo continues to created award winning products that are lauded by many of the industry leading audio publications. The company's philosophy is to deliver products that are superbly designed and built to a consistently outstanding standard of excellence. The results can be seen in the obviously high quality of any Onkyo-manufactured product, even before it is turned on. Visit Onkyo's website at www.onkyousa.com. Follow Onkyo USA at www.facebook.com/OnkyoUSA. Onkyo Home Theater Packages Ace the Entry-Level UPPER SADDLE RIVER, NJ (2/13/12) -- Home theater specialist, Onkyo, has assembled two class-leading packaged home theater systems for the first round of its 2012 model introductions. Each system combines a high-value audio video receiver with a matched set of home theater speakers to take the guesswork out of purchasing an entry-level surround sound system. The HT-S3500 5.1-Channel Home Theater Receiver/Speaker Package offers outstanding audio performance, abundant HDMI® connectivity, and unbeatable value for money. Users seeking to power larger rooms might consider investing in the step-up HT-S5500 7.1-Channel Home Theater Receiver/Speaker Package, which includes an Audyssey room acoustic correction system and an upgraded speaker package. Four HDMI inputs on both receivers facilitate Dolby® TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio™ high-resolution soundtrack decoding. HDMI implementation also supports an Audio Return Channel for TV audio through the home theater system, 3D video, and an overlaid on-screen display. Both receivers also feature a frontside USB port for direct digital connection of an iPod®, iPhone®, or music-filled flash memory device. Users can control playback using the system remote, and enjoy improved sound quality thanks to Onkyo's onboard advanced music optimizer system. The A/V receivers included in this release now come equipped with WRAT (Wide Range Amplifier Technology), a proven amplification concept that reduces signal noise and provides large amounts of controlled power instantaneously. Top-quality TI Burr-Brown 192 kHz/24-bit DACs on all channels, a powerful 32-bit DSP processing chip, and discrete output-stage components-not inexpensive 'all-in-one' amplifier chips-contribute to exceptionally good audio performance. The HT-S3500 5.1-Channel Home Theater Receiver/Speaker Package consists of the HT-R391 A/V receiver, two high-gloss bass reflex front speakers, two satellite surrounds, and a powerful bass reflex center speaker. A subwoofer with 8-inch (20 cm) down-firing cone is also included to add impact to movie scores and game soundtracks. Users can step up to seven-channel surround with the higher-powered HT-S5500 7.1-Channel Home Theater Receiver/Speaker Package. With Dolby® Pro Logic® IIz expanding any audio source to include two additional Front Height channels, users can enjoy a more detailed and realistic entertainment experience. A carefully matched Onkyo speaker set delivers clear, dynamic audio reproduction. Two-way front speakers feature a 5-inch (12 cm) OMF Diaphragm woofer for fast and accurate mid-range response, plus a balanced-dome tweeter for well-separated highs. The center speaker has twin cone woofers and tweeter, while the four bass reflex satellite speakers feature a single full-range driver. A gloss-finished 120 W powered subwoofer allows the receiver to operate more efficiently by concentrating all its power on the mid-range and upper-end frequencies. To ensure a perfect install, an Audyssey 2EQ room acoustic correction system with microphone is included, while Audyssey's Dynamic EQ® loudness correction and Dynamic Volume® guarantee a smooth, consistent performance regardless of sudden changes in dynamic levels. For users making their first foray into the world of home theater, these two packages offer simple installation, stress-free operation, and sparkling performance. The attractive price points may even prompt many current home theater owners to invest in a second surround sound system for another room in the home. With this release, Onkyo demonstrates its commitment to providing superior audio and state-of-the-art features at all levels of the home entertainment market. Both the Onkyo HT-S5500 and HT-S3500 will be available in March at suggested retail prices of $649 and $399 respectively. About Onkyo Since 1946 Onkyo has been passionately committed to developing audio products that deliver uncommon performance, quality and value. Bundling proprietary technologies and innovations with other sound-enhancing exclusives, Onkyo continues to created award winning products that are lauded by many of the industry leading audio publications. The company's philosophy is to deliver products that are superbly designed and built to a consistently outstanding standard of excellence. The results can be seen in the obviously high quality of any Onkyo-manufactured product, even before it is turned on. Visit Onkyo's website at www.onkyousa.com. Follow Onkyo USA at www.facebook.com/OnkyoUSA | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Amazon's second-gen, possibly larger Kindle Fire to set off at end of Q2? Posted: 17 Feb 2012 07:03 AM PST  Additionally, China Times understands that as an attempt to further reduce manufacturing costs, Amazon will also be personally picking and approving parts; as opposed to the olden days where Quanta took full care of the first Kindle Fire. This is surely a bad sign for Quanta in the short run, but hey, cheaper tablets sell well. The real question is: do people actually want a larger Kindle Fire? We're a tad skeptical at this point. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| FCC rules VoIP providers must report outages in effort to improve 911 service Posted: 17 Feb 2012 06:53 AM PST  | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| New Swype beta fulfills the Ice Cream Sandwich promise Posted: 17 Feb 2012 06:37 AM PST  It may be here a bit later than the 140-character box promised, but this fresh beta version of your favorite third-party keyboard app brings along a treat you'd been begging for. Swype's latest gift to the early-adopting crowd brings along some much requested Ice Cream Sandwich support. And, although all you Gnex-rockin' folks are getting what you wanted, the beta also adds other bits like accuracy improvements, add-ons with DragonGo! as well as downloadable languages for slates. We figured all that tapping's got you fatigued, so we're hooking you up with a clickable link to the download below. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| PSA: Can your machine run Mountain Lion? Posted: 17 Feb 2012 06:02 AM PST  | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| iOS 5.1 leaked, bringing new unlock-to-camera action, more cultured Siri? Posted: 17 Feb 2012 05:37 AM PST  | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Distro Issue 28: A slew of device reviews and a look back at CP+ 2012 Posted: 17 Feb 2012 05:15 AM PST  Distro Issue 28 PDF Distro on the iTunes App Store Distro in the Android Market Distro APK (for sideloading) Like Distro on Facebook Follow Distro on Twitter This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Samsung's new SD cards look too good to hide inside a DSLR Posted: 17 Feb 2012 05:00 AM PST  We've never been too fussed with how our storage looks -- it's rare that our SD cards linger too long outside the camera anyway. However, for you genius-level aesthetes who demand your internals are as beautiful as your externals, Samsung's got your back. It's releasing a line of SD and microSD cards with a stylish brushed metal body in silver or black that, frankly, looks shinier than whatever they'll be nestled inside. Just like Ryan Gosling, the cards are both pretty and pretty tough -- able to withstand 24 hours in water, 3,200 pounds of pressure or being left in an MRI machine with a power of 10,000 gauss, which we're always doing. After the interval, we've got pricing and stats for each unit (speed improves greatly if you plump for a 4GB card or higher) plus a little PR paperwork.  SD Card
microSD Card
Plus Extreme Speed Series – Specifications
microSD Card
*Accessible capacity varies; MB = 1 million bytes, GB = 1 billion bytes. Samsung Introduces Stylish Branded Memory Cards Complete Line of SD and MicroSD Cards Available up to Class 10, 32 GB Models RIDGEFIELD PARK, N.J., February 17, 2012 – Samsung Electronics America, Inc., a market leader and award-winning innovator in consumer electronics, announced today that it is now shipping a new line of advanced SD and microSD cards that are ideal for digital imaging and mobile devices. The seven new models of SD and microSD cards are now available as part of either the High Speed Series or the Plus Extreme Speed Series, both of which deliver up to 24MB/sec read speeds on cards with a capacity of 4GB or higher. Styled with a brushed metal design, Samsung's beautiful new line of SD and microSD cards are built with "Best-in-Class" performance. Able to meet the growing demand for high speed and high capacity memory in modern devices, the new cards are ideal for today's digital cameras, camcorders, smartphones and tablets. With (up to) 24MB/sec OR (max) read speeds, users can transfer 1GB of images in as little as 42 seconds. In order to ensure their reliability, Samsung has designed both lines of memory products to be waterproof, shockproof, and magnet proof, allowing them to withstand some of the harshest conditions. All models are guaranteed to survive up to 24 hours in water, withstand the force of a 1.6 ton vehicle (3,200 lbs), and resist up to 10,000 gauss (slightly less than the power of a medical imaging magnet). Description: Feature3.jpg"It is our goal at Samsung to deliver superior performance, reliability and a stylish design across all of our product lines, including our memory line," explained Reid Sullivan, Senior Vice President, Samsung Electronics America. "Utilizing our 19 years of experience in memory manufacturing, we've built both lines of SD and microSD cards for performance. With read speeds of up to 24 MB/sec and max write speeds of 13 MB/sec (High Speed Line) and 21 MB/sec (Plus Extreme Speed Line), as well as meeting our '3-proof' reliability standard, these cards represent the ultimate in digital imaging and mobile computing storage. As the #1 memory supplier in the world and manufacturer of so many high performance portable devices, we are committed to ensuring consumers realize the best possible experience with those devices." | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| More HTC Endeavor whispers: SLCD display, thin chassis, 32GB and no microSD Posted: 17 Feb 2012 04:36 AM PST  | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Nevada is getting serious about driverless cars Posted: 17 Feb 2012 04:01 AM PST  We were admittedly cynical last summer, when Nevada's state legislature passed a law regulating the safety of driverless cars. But maybe we shouldn't have been, because it looks like they're actually serious about it. The state has now begun fleshing out its campaign with new regulations for testing these robocars, which, of course, are still very much in their infancy. According to the Associated Press, drivers looking to test a driverless vehicle will have to first purchase a bond worth between $1 million and $3 million, depending on the specifics of their project. The data from each test, moreover, will have to be shared with state officials, and all automated vehicles must have some sort of black box-like device to securely store this information, in the event of a crash. Most interesting, however, is how humans fit into all of this. Under the state's regulations, a passenger is still considered an "operator" of the vehicle, even if he or she isn't driving. They'll be exempt from Nevada's ban on driving while texting, but they won't be able to rely on their robocar as a designated driver -- which is fine, because it's not like anyone drinks in Vegas anyway. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Acer Iconia Tab family to be given Ice Cream Sandwich treatment, rolling out to A200 now Posted: 17 Feb 2012 03:22 AM PST
Acer's revealed that it'll be bringing Android's latest and greatest version to its existing tablet family. The update is rolling out (as promised) on the Iconia Tab A200 now, but version 4.0 will also make an appearance on both its seven inch (Iconia A100) and 10 inch (Iconia A500) relatives in April. The update adds all those ICS features, including refreshed widget design and improved multitasking, but leaves the manufacturer's own Android addition -- the Acer launcher ring -- intact. ACER ICONIA TAB TABLETS UPDATED TO ANDROID 4.0 Acer Transitions Popular Iconia™ Tab Line to Android 4.0 to Give Customers More Features and Capabilities SAN JOSE, Calif., Feb. 17, 2012 – Acer America is now updating its award-winning Acer Iconia Tab line of tablets with the latest version of Android 4.0 OS (Ice Cream Sandwich). The update is being pushed to Acer Iconia Tab A200 customers over-the-air now in the United States and will be completed over the following week. The Acer Iconia Tab A100 7-inch tablet and Acer Iconia Tab A500 10-inch tablet will both be updated in April. With Android 4.0, the Acer Iconia Tab line will provide new features to give customers more usability and enjoyment from their tablets. Customers will notice the improvements right away – including the faster browser, enhanced app and folder management options, more intuitive navigation, and a completely reimaged design that is more polished with enhanced holographic effects. Plus, customers can more easily customize their Acer tablet and will enjoy improved multitasking and switching between tasks. They will also appreciate improved integration with Gmail's email and calendar functions. "The many enhancements in Android 4.0 OS complement the sleek, powerful and well-designed Acer Iconia Tab tablets to give customers an all-around first-rate experience," said Paul Tayar, Director Product Marketing – Connected Devices, Acer America. "Customers will experience greater entertainment and productivity with the new capabilities and features on their tablets." Features and Enhancements Unique to Acer Tablets The new update of Android 4.0 also includes several new features that are unique to Acer tablets. The updated tablets will now feature the highly-customizable Acer Ring, making it incredibly natural and easy to get instant access to favorite apps and features. The Acer Ring can be launched with a single touch and lets customers have quick and easy access to apps, surf the web, capture screen images, post photos and status updates to their social networks, and more. Customers will also enjoy an improved weather widget and will be able to access their favorite apps even when the screen is locked. Photos and Video Enhance Memories Acer Iconia Tab customers will be able to do more with their photos and video thanks to the Android 4.0 update, including improved zoom and the ability to take snapshots while recording video. Customers will also be able to capture better still images and do more with them due to greater image stabilization and improved integration with third party apps. Both video clips and photos can be enhanced on the fly, stored and searched for based on various tags, and conveniently stored on Google+. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| WSJ: Safari loophole lets Google track Apple users through web ads Posted: 17 Feb 2012 03:04 AM PST  After the Wall Street Journal notified Google of this loophole, the company promptly disabled it and duly apologized, adding that it didn't realize that its +1 system would plant tracking cookies on a user's device. "We didn't anticipate that this would happen, and we have now started removing these advertising cookies from Safari browsers," Google's Rachel Whetstone explained. "It's important to stress that, just as on other browsers, these advertising cookies do not collect personal information." An Apple spokesperson, meanwhile, issued the following statement: "We are aware that some third parties are circumventing Safari's privacy features and we are working to put a stop to it." | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| NHTSA issues "distraction guidelines" proposal for in-vehicle electronics, MyFord Touch frets Posted: 17 Feb 2012 02:20 AM PST  With companies like Tesla and Ford replacing tactile, in-dash systems with touchscreens and gizmos, the National Highway and Transportation Safety Administration wants to set "distraction guidelines" for how automakers implement factory-installed in-car electronics. Nearly a year after discussing the possibility of bringing restrictions to in-car information, US Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood unveiled phase one of a (potential) three-part, "first-ever federal proposal" loaded with suggestions for keeping driver's eyes and attention on the road. Notably, these voluntary guidelines take aim at "communications, entertainment, information gathering and navigation devices or functions that are not required to safely operate the vehicle." According to Reuters, though, the Alliance of Auto Manufacturers claims that "elements" of the guidelines have been in practice for nearly ten years. The ideas range from ensuring that one hand is always left free for steering and restricting the entry of text, such as an address, unless the your car is in park, to limiting in-dash text prompts to "no more than 30 characters of text unrelated to the driving task" so that your eyes can't wander off of the road for too long. Passengers, of course, would be free to do whatever they wish. Vehicles under 10,000 pounds are said to be the primary focus, with the NHTSA noting that electronic warning systems will not be on the radar as they intend to help drivers, well, drive. Before the proposal spins into action, beginning in March it will be up for public comment for 60 days L.A., Washington D.C. and Chicago. Depending on how the phase one guidelines pan out, phase two will focus on devices brought into vehicles, like cellphones, while phase three would set its sights on voice controls. If you're curious about all of the specifics, you'll find more info in the press release after the break and the full proposal draft at the source link below. U.S. Department of Transportation Proposes 'Distraction' Guidelines for Automakers Proposed recommendations would encourage manufacturers to develop "less distracting" in-vehicle electronic devices WASHINGTON – U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood today announced the first-ever federally proposed guidelines to encourage automobile manufacturers to limit the distraction risk for in-vehicle electronic devices. The proposed voluntary guidelines would apply to communications, entertainment, information gathering and navigation devices or functions that are not required to safely operate the vehicle. Issued by the Department's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the guidelines would establish specific recommended criteria for electronic devices installed in vehicles at the time they are manufactured that require visual or manual operation by drivers. The announcement of the guidelines comes just days after President Obama's FY 2013 budget request, which includes $330 million over six years for distracted driving programs that increase awareness of the issue and encourage stakeholders to take action. "Distracted driving is a dangerous and deadly habit on America's roadways – that's why I've made it a priority to encourage people to stay focused behind the wheel," said Secretary LaHood. "These guidelines are a major step forward in identifying real solutions to tackle the issue of distracted driving for drivers of all ages." Geared toward light vehicles (cars, SUVs, pickup trucks, minivans, and other vehicles rated at not more than 10,000 pounds gross vehicle weight), the guidelines proposed today are the first in a series of guidance documents NHTSA plans to issue to address sources of distraction that require use of the hands and/or diversion of the eyes from the primary task of driving. In particular, the Phase I proposed guidelines released today recommend criteria that manufacturers can use to ensure the systems or devices they provide in their vehicles are less likely to distract the driver with tasks not directly relevant to safely operating the vehicle, or cause undue distraction by engaging the driver's eyes or hands for more than a very limited duration while driving. Electronic warning system functions such as forward-collision or lane departure alerts would not be subject to the proposed guidelines, since they are intended to warn a driver of a potential crash and are not considered distracting devices. "We recognize that vehicle manufacturers want to build vehicles that include the tools and conveniences expected by today's American drivers," said NHTSA Administrator David Strickland. "The guidelines we're proposing would offer real-world guidance to automakers to help them develop electronic devices that provide features consumers want-without disrupting a driver's attention or sacrificing safety." The proposed Phase I distraction guidelines include recommendations to: Reduce complexity and task length required by the device; Limit device operation to one hand only (leaving the other hand to remain on the steering wheel to control the vehicle); Limit individual off-road glances required for device operation to no more than two seconds in duration; Limit unnecessary visual information in the driver's field of view; Limit the amount of manual inputs required for device operation. The proposed guidelines would also recommend the disabling of the following operations by in-vehicle electronic devices while driving, unless the devices are intended for use by passengers and cannot reasonably be accessed or seen by the driver, or unless the vehicle is stopped and the transmission shift lever is in park. Visual-manual text messaging; Visual-manual internet browsing; Visual-manual social media browsing; Visual-manual navigation system destination entry by address; Visual-manual 10-digit phone dialing; Displaying to the driver more than 30 characters of text unrelated to the driving task. NHTSA is also considering future, Phase II proposed guidelines that might address devices or systems that are not built into the vehicle but are brought into the vehicle and used while driving, including aftermarket and portable personal electronic devices such as navigation systems, smart phones, electronic tablets and pads, and other mobile communications devices. A third set of proposed guidelines (Phase III) may address voice-activated controls to further minimize distraction in factory-installed, aftermarket, and portable devices. The Phase I guidelines were published in today's Federal Register and members of the public will have the opportunity to comment on the proposal for 60 days. Final guidelines will be issued after the agency reviews and analyzes and responds to public input. NHTSA will also hold public hearings on the proposed guidelines to solicit public comment. The hearings will take place in March and will be held in Los Angeles, Chicago, and Washington D.C | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Humble Bundle Mojam happens this weekend: vote on a game, see it made in 60 hours for charity Posted: 17 Feb 2012 01:30 AM PST The Humble Bundle organization has done a fairly impressive job of raising money for charities with its name-your-price game bundles (also benefiting game developers, of course), but it's doing something a little different this weekend. It's enlisted the help of Minecraft creator Mojang for the Humble Bundle Mojam, a 60-hour coding jam (streamed live) that will see a game made from scratch and eventually sold, with all of the proceeds going to charity. They're also opening up the type of game to a vote, with folks able to choose from a number of different themes and genres, but the real kicker is that they're going to take the highest and lowest votes -- meaning you could see Real Time Strategy Beat 'em Up with a Steampunk / Ancient Egypt theme if the current voting holds up. Hit the source link below if you'd like to try to sway that in a different direction. Update: The voting is now closed and the stream is live at humblebundle.com (or after the break, if you prefer). The game they're tackling is a real-time strategy shoot 'em up with a steampunk ancient Egypt theme, and the donations are pouring in (totaling around $90,000 after eight hours). | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Auraslate opens Android tablets up to developers, welcomes mischief Posted: 17 Feb 2012 12:29 AM PST  | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| WinZip comes to iOS, doesn't nag you to register Posted: 16 Feb 2012 11:30 PM PST  The days of ignoring WinZip's incessant nagging that you actually pay its registration fee may be long gone, but that isn't to say the file compressing firm hasn't learned from your failure to pony up. WinZip, the Windows user's go-to compression software since the early nineties, is now available on iOS -- free of charge. The mobile utility will let users open Zip attachments from email, browse compressed files and extract encrypted archives. Actual compression of an iOS device's files, however, will still need to be done on a desktop computer. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Razer ready to dump massive mounds of Mass Effect 3 gear on an unsuspecting public Posted: 16 Feb 2012 10:27 PM PST  BIOWARE AND RAZER UNVEIL MASS EFFECT 3 PRODUCT LINE Razer Enhances Your Competitive Advantage in Mass Effect 3 on the PC and Xbox 360 with Official Licensed Peripheral and Gear Collection Carlsbad, Calif. – Feb 16, 2012 – Award-winning developer BioWare, a label of Electronic Arts Inc. along with Razer, the world leader in high performance gaming hardware, reveal today peripherals and gear created for the highly anticipated Action RPG Mass Effect™ 3. Fans of the Mass Effect series can arm themselves for the all-out galactic war with the Razer Mass Effect 3 Edition peripheral line which includes a Razer Imperator gaming mouse, Razer Vespula dual-sided gaming mouse mat, Razer BlackWidow Ultimate gaming keyboard, Razer Onza Tournament Edition Xbox 360® controller, and Razer Chimaera Xbox 360 gaming headset. The cutting-edge peripherals will give fans of the series a competitive advantage in the epic battle to save the galaxy from the ancient alien race known only as the Reapers. "BioWare is pulling out all of the stops for Mass Effect 3 to ensure it's the best and boldest game in the series," said Robert 'RazerGuy' Krakoff, President, Razer USA. "With our official line of peripherals and gear for Mass Effect 3, we're giving fans the best gaming weaponry and hardware to meet the challenge head on – and come out victorious." "With Mass Effect 3 we're delivering a truly epic experience for both the existing fans and newcomers into the series," said David Silverman, Marketing Director for BioWare. "Mass Effect 3 is an all-out Galactic war and partnering with Razer gives us an opportunity to raise the stakes even higher and provide gamers with a product line that will certainly help them take Earth back on March 6." Fans can also receive gear to protect and safeguard peripherals and gadgets from the intensity of the intergalactic warfare in Mass Effect 3. The Razer Mass Effect 3 Edition gear line includes a sleek, hard protection case customized for the iPhone 4/4S, and a sleek N7 messenger bag for ample storage. Both the Mass Effect 3 peripherals and gear line are emblazoned with Mass Effect iconic N7 design, bestowed only to the highest-ranking soldiers of the Systems Alliance military, worn by Commander Shepard on his armor. Mass Effect 3 peripherals are available now for pre-order from Razerstore. For more information, head to www.razerzone.com/me3. Mass Effect 3 arrives on the Xbox 360® videogame and entertainment system, PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system and PC in North America on March 6, 2012 and in Europe on March 9, 2012 and is available for pre-order now at participating retailers. Fans who pre-order have the opportunity to arm themselves with cutting-edge in-game weapons and armor* to prepare for the all-out galactic war. For more information on Mass Effect 3, please visit www.masseffect.com, follow the game on Twitter at www.twitter.com/masseffect or "like" the game on Facebook at www.facebook.com/masseffect. About the Mass Effect 3 Razer Imperator Ergonomic Gaming Mouse Mass Effect 3 drops players into an all-out galactic war where the Reapers have taken Earth, and only you as Commander Shepard can take back Earth and prevent the entire galaxy from complete annihilation. Use the Razer Imperator Mass Effect 3 Edition gaming mouse as your tech-blade, an extension of your arm and with its 6400dpi 4G Dual Sensor System dispatch the ruthless enemies before they end humanity's existence. Price: US $79.99 / EU €79.99 Availability: Razerzone.com – Pre-Order Now Worldwide – March 2012 Product features: · 6400dpi 4G Dual Sensor System · Rubberized contoured thumb grip for added control · Ergonomic right-handed design · Adjustable side buttons · Razer Synapse Onboard Memory · Up to 200 inches per second/50g acceleration · Seven independently programmable Hyperesponse buttons · On-the-Fly Sensitivity adjustment · Zero-acoustic Ultraslick mouse feet · Approx. size in mm; 123(l) x 71(w) x 42(h) About the Mass Effect 3 Razer BlackWidow Ultimate Mechanical Gaming Keyboard The Razer BlackWidow Mass Effect 3 Edition gaming keyboard is a state-of-the-art weapon with its full-fledged heavy-duty mechanical key infrastructure. When it delivers crisp, tactile feedback and faster keystroke actuation, this revolutionary, fully backlit gaming keyboard helps Commander Shepard get the mission done with razor-sharp efficiency. Price: US $139.99 / EU €139.99 Availability: Razerzone.com – Pre-Order Now Worldwide – March 2012 Product Features: Full mechanical keys with 50g actuation force Individually backlit keys with 5 levels of lighting 1000Hz Ultrapolling / 1ms response time Programmable keys with on-the-fly macro recording Gaming mode option for deactivation of the Windows key 10 customizable software profiles with on-the-fly switching 5 additional macro keys Gaming optimized key matrix for minimized ghosting Multi-media controls Braided cable Audio-out / Mic-in jacks USB-passthrough Approx. size in mm: 475(L) x 171(W) x 30(H) Weight: 1.5kg About the Mass Effect 3 Razer Vespula Dual-Sided Gaming Mouse Mat In Mass Effect 3, Commander Shepard and his team will face their greatest challenge yet - the Reapers. The Razer Vespula dual-sided gaming mouse mat is the perfect way to ensure that you're prepared for each battle. Get neck-breaking acceleration under your mouse with the SPEED side to hit the enemies before they can react, or deliver precise headshots with the measured movement of the CONTROL side. Exclusively designed in pitch-black finish with the iconic N7 logo and stripes displayed on Shepard's Armor, the Razer Vespula Mass Effect 3 Edition readies both you and your mouse for the war to take Earth back. Price: US $34.99 / EU €34.99 Availability: Razerzone.com – Pre-Order Now Worldwide – March 2012 Product features: · Non-slip, anti-reflective, abrasion-resistant hard coat · SPEED surface for faster mouse movements · CONTROL surface for precise mouse movements · Comes with a gel-filled wrist rest · Approximate Size : 320 mm / 12.61" (Length) x 260 mm / 10.24" (Width) x 20 mm / 0.79" (Height) · Approximate Weight: 332 g / 0.73 lbs About the Mass Effect 3 Onza Tournament Edition Xbox 360 Gaming Controller The Onza TE Mass Effect 3 Edition provides enhanced combat effectiveness through adjustable resistance on both analog sticks and the addition of two fully -programmable multi-function buttons. Quickly fire biotics from the extra shoulder buttons to disable enemies, and use analog sticks calibrated to your preferred tension. An improved D-pad, Hyperesponse buttons, and a 15-foot lightweight braided cable, round-off this perfect weapon for Mass Effect 3 on the Xbox 360 and PC. Price: US $59.99 / EU €59.99 Availability: Razerzone.com – Pre-Order Now Worldwide – March 2012 Product features: 2 Adjustable resistance analog sticks 2 Multi-Function Buttons (MFB) 4 backlit Hyperesponse action buttons Precision D-Pad Non-slip rubber surface Quick release USB connector 15 foot, lightweight, braided fiber cable Approx. size in mm: 109(L) x 154(W) x 60.5(H) About the Mass Effect 3 Razer Chimaera Xbox 360 5.1 Wireless Gaming Headset Whether tuning into the immersive sounds of the various exotic in-game locales featured in Mass Effect 3, or to get the one-up on enemies through audio cues and pinpoint positional audio – The Razer Chimaera 5.1 Mass Effect 3 Edition gaming headset takes you into the game full throttle by way of your ears. As you hear the Reapers closing in all around you, be ready to take the fight to them. Price: US $209.99 / EU €209.99 Availability: Razerzone.com – March 2012 Worldwide – March 2012 Product features: Wireless Headset Circumaural Design with 50mm Driver Units Volume & Mic Control Buttons on the Headset 3 Preset EQ Detachable 2.5mm Microphone Cable Dimensions: 200mm(Width) x 204mm(Height) x 88mm(Depth) Inner Ear Cup Diameter: 55 mm / 2.16" Approximate Weight (including batteries): 369 g / 0.81 lbs Headphones Radio Frequency: 5.8GHz Dolby® Headphone / Dolby Pro Logic® II / Dolby Digital Wireless Range: 33ft / 10m Frequency Response: 20 - 20,000 Hz Impedance: 32O at 1kHz Sensitivity (@1kHz, 1V/Pa): 105dB +/- 2dB Drivers: 50 mm, with Neodymium Magnets Batteries: 2 AAA Batteries (Up to 8 Hours Battery Life) Charging Time: 3 Hours Microphone Frequency Response: 130 - 10,000 Hz Sensitivity (@1kHz, 1V/Pa): -42 ± 2dB Signal-to-Noise Ratio: >55 dB Pick-up Pattern: Uni-directional Hardware Requirements Xbox 360® Available Optical Port PC RCA to 3.5mm Cable* Available 3.5mm Headphone Jack Available 3.5mm Microphone Jack * RCA to 3.5mm cable required and sold separately About the Mass Effect 3 iPhone 4 Protection Case by Razer With a hard-shell design inspired by Commander Shepard's iconic N7 Onyx Armor, and complete with segmented protection plates, your iPhone 4 is getting the best protection to take on every intense firefight, battle, and hard knock Mass Effect 3 and your life can throw at it. Price: US $24.99 / EU €24.99 Availability: Razerzone.com – March 2012 Worldwide – March 2012 Product features: · Heavy duty silicone protection for your iPhone 4 from the elements · Rubberized finish for better grip · Mass Effect 3 inspired design About the Mass Effect 3 Razer Messenger Bag Constructed with tear-resistant, weather-proof heavy-duty 1680D ballistic nylon, the Mass Effect 3 Razer Messenger bag gives your gaming laptop and gear total protection from intergalactic warfare. Price: US $79.99 / EU €79.99 Availability: Razerzone.com – March 2012 Worldwide – March 2012 Product features: Armored with a tear-resistant, weather-proof heavy duty 1680D ballistic nylon outer shell Water-resistant TPU inner lining for added durability Single shoulder sling design for added mobility Built in compartments for up to 15" laptops, gaming peripherals and portable gaming devices. Durable inner lining protects electronic devices and provides ample shock absorbency while on the road About BioWare The BioWare Label is a division of EA which crafts high quality multiplatform role-playing, MMO, social, play-for-free and strategy games, focused on emotionally engaging, rich stories with unforgettable characters and vast worlds to discover. Since 1995, BioWare has created some of the world's most critically acclaimed titles and franchises, including Baldur's Gate™, Neverwinter Nights™, Star Wars®: Knights of the Old Republic™, Jade Empire™, Mass Effect™ and Dragon Age™. BioWare currently operates in eight locations across the world, including Edmonton (Alberta, Canada), Montreal (Quebec, Canada), Austin (Texas), Fairfax (Virginia), San Francisco (California), Los Angeles (California), Sacramento (California) and Galway (Ireland). In 2008, BioWare was acquired by Electronic Arts, a leading global interactive entertainment publisher. In 2011 EA created the BioWare Label, alongside EA Games, EA SPORTS™ and EA Play. For more information on BioWare, visit www.bioware.com, or follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/bioware. To join the millions of fans already registered with the BioWare community, go to http://social.bioware.com. About Electronic Arts Electronic Arts (NASDAQ:EA) is a global leader in digital interactive entertainment. The Company's game franchises are offered as both packaged goods products and online services delivered through Internet-connected consoles, personal computers, mobile phones and tablets. EA has more than 100 million registered players and operates in 75 countries. In fiscal 2011, EA posted GAAP net revenue of $3.6 billion. Headquartered in Redwood City, California, EA is recognized for critically acclaimed, high-quality blockbuster franchises such as The Sims™, Madden NFL, FIFA Soccer, Need for Speed™, Battlefield, and Mass Effect™. More information about EA is available at http://info.ea.com. BioWare, Mass Effect, Jade Empire, and Dragon Age are trademarks of EA International (Studio and Publishing) Ltd. Battlefield 3 is a trademark of EA Digital Illusions CE AB. EA SPORTS, The Sims and Need for Speed are trademarks of Electronic Arts Inc. John Madden, NFL and FIFA are the property of their respective owners and used with permission. "PlayStation" is a registered trademark of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. Xbox and Xbox 360 are trademarks of the Microsoft group of companies and are used under license from Microsoft. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. About the Razer Group: Razer™ is more than just the world's leading brand in high-end precision gaming products, perpetually defining the gaming and technology space. Founded in 1998 in Carlsbad, California, Razer is driven by the ceaseless pursuit for absolute precision and high usability in a distinctive, aesthetic design that gives gamers the edge they demand. With labs and offices in seven cities around the world, Razer dedicates user interface research and development to bring cutting-edge technology to each and every product. We live by our motto: For Gamers. By Gamers™. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Renesas MP5232 SoC promises dual-core processing and LTE connectivity for less cash Posted: 16 Feb 2012 09:20 PM PST  Renesas Mobile Introduces First Integrated LTE Triple-Mode Platform Optimised for Full-Featured, High Volume Smartphones MP5232 Dual 1.5GHz core Communications Processor to Drive LTE Growth with Best-in-Class User Experience for High Volume LTE Smartphones and Tablets TOKYO, February 15, 2012 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- Renesas Electronics Corporation and its subsidiary, Renesas Mobile Corporation ( http://www.renesasmobile.com ), a leading supplier of advanced cellular semiconductor solutions and platforms, today announced the availability of the MP5232, the first single-chip, high-performance, scalable smartphone platform optimised to address the US$150-300 range device market. The MP5232 platform is designed to enable OEMs to accelerate the creation and delivery of high volume LTE/HSPA+ capable smartphones, tablets and mobile Internet devices the industry requires to deliver the full potential of LTE. The MP5232 platform sets a new benchmark in terms of levels of integration and performance for fully featured high-volume LTE devices. At its heart, the Renesas Mobile modem, deployed in over two billion devices to date, delivers the industry's highest throughput and low power multi-mode FDD and TDD-LTE Category 4 capabilities. Combined with a state-of-the-art application processor the platform delivers a no-compromise user experience with multi-core computing power, industry-leading graphics, video and imaging capabilities. The platform also includes advanced RF transceivers, power management and audio solutions. This highly integrated smartphone platform is delivered fully tested and certified to enable customers to bring new generations of fully-featured LTE/HSPA+ smartphones to market in as little as six to nine months. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Tranquil PC Skinny Ripper is a slim music-archiving server Posted: 16 Feb 2012 08:24 PM PST  | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Doodle Defense game uses Kinect to turn white boards into displays, dry-erase markers into weapons Posted: 16 Feb 2012 07:06 PM PST  | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Kraftwerk performing 3D-enhanced retrospective concerts over 8 nights at MoMA Posted: 16 Feb 2012 06:17 PM PST  [Image credit: Andréas Hagström, Wikipedia] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| HBO Go rolls out to most Samsung Smart HDTVs -- but not through all providers Posted: 16 Feb 2012 05:38 PM PST  For reasons not mentioned, the HBO Go app doesn't play nicely with every Smart TV, with access available on all 2010 and 2011 models with the exception of several from last year (listed after the break). Also key to remember is that not every TV provider has given its blessing to allows customers access to HBO Go in the living room, so it seems Comcast, DirecTV and Time Warner customers are still out of luck. If you've got the right combo of service provider and hardware go forth and download from the Samsung Apps marketplace right now, we'll be busy trying to figure out where the old episodes of Arli$$ are.
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| Google files patent app for unlocking devices, says we don't need no stinking slide-to-unlock Posted: 16 Feb 2012 04:56 PM PST  | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Lehmann Aviation's LFPV UAV packs GPS, autopilot, 11MP cam, 1080p video, yours for $2,352 Posted: 16 Feb 2012 04:12 PM PST  Sure, an AR.Drone 2.0 will afford you 720p HD video recording in the skies for just 300 dollars, but how does 1080p with 11 megapixels of sensor sound in comparison? That's exactly what Lehmann Aviation is offering on its new LFPV civil UAV. This $2,352 (1790€) kit is far less expensive than the company's $17K LP960 from a few years back, but it certainly isn't lacking in the drool inducing features department -- and yes, it'll capture straight up photographs, too. Apart from letting you conduct reconnaissance of your local strip mall, the LFPV packs a "live data connection" to keep you informed about its GPS coordinates and altitude, among others things, like how soon you'll need to recharge. Better yet, it uses the same Ground Control System as Lehmann's other flyers (perfect for when it's time to upgrade), offering an 800 x 480 live video stream of your journey and total control of where you're piloting the aircraft. Best of all, the LFPV even packs autopilot if you need to take a break from the controls . We'd be remiss not to point out Eye3's $999 bring-your-own-camera hexicopter for those already equipped with a beefy ILC shooter, but if the LFPV is right up (or over) your alley, you'll find a full press release and video just past the break. LFPV UAV Features All New Camera with 11Mp sensor for still images or Full HD videos, Ground Control System (GCS) with Live Video and On-Screen Data Display (OSD) for live video feedback and GPS data information BLOIS, FRANCE - February 16, 2012 - Lehmann Aviation, manufacturer of the world's first very light UAV for civil applications, today announced LFPV, the most amazing UAV (unmanned aircraft vehicle) yet. LFPV gives instant access to aerial photography and video with a 11Mp sensor for still images or full 1080p HD video. LFPV is the first professional aircraft worldwide coming with GPS data information and auto-pilot system, at only 1790€ ready to fly. New features include live data connection (GPS coordinates, altitude, heading, batteries levels and aircraft position) to the Ground Control System (GCS). Live video shown on the ground control high resolution (800x480) screen display enables precise monitoring of video recording, with an ability to control trajectory in real time. To ensure system interoperability, LFPV uses the same advanced technology found in other Lehmann systems, such as LM450, LP960 and LV580, and is controllable through a common Ground Control System (GCS). Watch the video at: www.lehmannaviation.com/video_gallery_v1.php. ---- IN THE LFPV BOX ---- 1 Aircraft Airframe 1 Electronic flying platform (with data OSD) 1 complete Ground Control System (GCS) 1 Camera (full HD video & 11Mp still images) 1 Aircraft Power System (include 1 battery and charger) 1 year warranty LFPV optional equipment: Spare Aircraft Airframe Additional batteries Customized case for transportation Kit photo at: www.lehmannaviation.com/inthebox_lfpv.php ---- A FULL RANGE OF UAVs ---- Lehmann Aviation offers a full range of rugged unmanned aircraft, designed especially for civil sector, from agricultural to construction, needed for video monitoring, survey and diverse scientific applications. The aircraft enable easy and safe operations thanks to their light weight (less than 1,3kg) and small wingspan (92cm) : LFPV: designed for short range and low altitude missions. Radio controlled aircraft with On Screen GPS data display (OSD). LM450: designed for long range photo and video missions, with a full auto-pilot system and 5km range. LP960: designed for long range vertical images (orthophoto and mosaic) , with a full auto-pilot system and 5km range. LV580: designed for long range survey or live video missions, with a full auto-pilot system and 5km range. With wind resistance up to 25kt (45km/h) and payload up to 16Mp on a large APS-C sensor, Lehmann Aviation aircraft are the most versatile small UAVs, with very few operational restrictions. Lehmann Aircraft allow their owners to make incredible aerial images, photos or videos, in a very simple way. ---- PRICING & AVAILABILITY ---- LFPV from 1 790€: available end of February 2012 LM450 from 4 490€: in production LP960 from 7 990€: in production LV580 from 14 990 €: in production | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Barclays releases Pingit mobile payments app, we go hands-on Posted: 16 Feb 2012 03:32 PM PST  Barclays Bank has unleashed Pingit, an iOS, Android and BlackBerry app that lets you send up to £300 ($470) a day to family, friends or technically-aware muggers. UK mobile number and bank account holders can get started in minutes as long as they've got one of the Barclays-branded PINSentry tools. You'll be asked to come up with a five-digit code that will lock the app to anyone but yourself (or, you know, that mugger) and then you can start spreading your cash around, baller-style. We set up our own account through the app and if you're curious about our impressions, you can find out what we thought after the break. Making a payment is overdraft-worryingly easy: enter the phone number of the intended recipient with an optional 30-character message. They'll receive an SMS with an invite to download the app and accept the payment -- reverting to you if it's not collected within 24 hours. You can pay any figure over £1, with pre-determined buttons for £5, £10, £20 and £50 for one-touch donating. A severe word of caution however, there's no way to pull back an error-made transaction except to call or text the unintended beneficiary directly and beg them not to take your money. You'll also get a location-aware map that'll point you in the direction of your nearest ATM or branch. Overall, it's well presented and the bank assures us that every step has been taken to protect our data, but we're puzzled as to how frequently we'd ever need to use it. The only people who send us cash money like this is our elderly relatives during the holidays, and they traditionally prefer cheques. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| BBC 3D London Olympics plans include one live sporting event, daily highlights Posted: 16 Feb 2012 02:53 PM PST  The Beeb has finally detailed its plans for 3D broadcasts during the London 2012 Olympic Games this summer, and unfortunately for fans of the technology, the content available for live viewing will be pretty limited. The BBC's site lists the Opening / Closing ceremonies and the men's 100m dash for its experimental coverage... and that's it. At the end of each day a "highlights package" will be available, but we're still not sure what other sports will be included yet. This approach harkens back to NBC's 24 hour tape delayed HD broadcasts of 2004, and according to director Roger Mosey, is mostly due to limited capacity. If the BBC is using one of its HD channels for the free-to-air 3D broadcast, then it takes away an HD channel for another event at the same time, so the ceremonies have the advantage of not blacking out any other coverage. In the US, it's possible things could be different if 3D broadcasts are made available on a dedicated events channel as Versus nee NBC SportsTalk has done before, but we'll wait to hear what NBC has planned and hope Usain Bolt doesn't false start again. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Samsung's 2012 HDTV family prices leaked? Posted: 16 Feb 2012 02:06 PM PST
In the market for a HDTV upgrade? Then you may be interested in hearing how much you'll need to pony up for Samsung's new screens. HDGuru's got its hands on a whole list of purported MAPs (minimum advertised prices) for its 2012 range and, sadly, they're slightly pricier than last year's models. You will, however, be getting some extra bang for your buck; its latest top-end sets include built-in cameras, speech recognition and gesture-sensing remotes. The LED LCD 8000 series of Smart TVs maxes out at 75 inches ($7,299), "shrinking" down to a 46 inch model ($2,699). These all pack a 3D screen alongside dual-core processors for TV-based apps. Meanwhile, if you're in the market for a plasma, expect to pay around $2,249 for the 51 inch model with the same specifications outlined above, while a 64 inch vista will necessitate 3,399 notes. Prices aren't set in stone just yet and could change depending on competitor's pricing ahead of hitting the shelves. We're hoping any potential price adjustments will be in the downward direction. Also of note: in 2012 you may not be able to find deep discounts at online shops like Amazon vs. big box retailers like Best Buy, as HDGuru mentions Samsung is reportedly looking to enforce Apple-style uniform pricing on its high-end products. Check the full -- and pretty darn comprehensive -- list at the source below. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Clearwire says it plans on launching TD-LTE network by June 2013 Posted: 16 Feb 2012 01:33 PM PST  Clearwire's been promising us that speedy LTE network for quite some time now. The good news is, we may have a clearer view of when to expect the waves to start flowing. During yesterday's Q4 earnings call, CEO Erik Prusch said his company plans on rolling out its LTE tides by June of next year, with the help of 5,000 wave sites around the US and a "longer-term" plan of adding about 3,000 more. The 2.5GHz spectrum will take over the WiMAX regime you've grown to love, and while we're still many handsets and slates away from testing it out, it's something all you Now Network users can happily look forward to. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Insert Coin: Alarm clock makes you enter a code to silence it, in another room (video) Posted: 16 Feb 2012 12:56 PM PST In Insert Coin, we look at an exciting new tech project that requires funding before it can hit production. If you'd like to pitch a project, please send us a tip with "Insert Coin" as the subject line.  Previous project update: A recent Insert Coin feature -- the Dash car stereo that integrates your iPhone into its facade -- is a little less that $12,000 from its goal. You'll have to pledge at least $250 (shipping included) to snag a unit of your own before the March 21st deadline. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| The Engadget Podcast is live tonight at 5PM! Posted: 16 Feb 2012 12:30 PM PST  We may have scattered to the wind, but that doesn't mean we can't bring you an awesome edition of the Engadget Podcast. Tim, the sole East Coast representative this time out, will be joined by Brian from the forests of Portland and Sean B in the mean streets of San Jose. You can join us too, after the break. *** You can also stream the show live on your iPhone or iPad by clicking here. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Sony promo lets PS Vita, PS3 hold hands for cross-platform play, because sharing is caring Posted: 16 Feb 2012 12:11 PM PST  |
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