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- Samsung updates S Pen SDK to 2.0, SCanvasView brings Note animation and narration
- Audi comes clean on A3 e-tron pilot program, electric mobility coming to four US cities
- Pacemaker and RIM announce exclusive DJ app for PlayBook
- Join us for Microsoft's Windows 8 press conference tomorrow at 9:30am EST!
- LightSquared CEO Sanjiv Ahuja steps down, company remains committed to wireless network
- Verizon CFO says shared data plans coming mid-year
- ELVIIS Volvo C30 EV charges from any standard outlet, bills the driver (hands-on)
- Apple iPad event confirmed for March 7th in San Francisco
- '4G' Sony Tablet P coming to AT&T on March 4th for $400
- T-Mobile HTC One S hands-on at MWC 2012
- NEC Medias series makes the trip to MWC, we go eyes-on
- CNBC: Quad-core iPad 3 with LTE to be unveiled in New York
- Sprint raising $2 billion, may throw some dough Clearwire's way
- The Engadget Interview: Nokia CEO Stephen Elop at MWC 2012 (video)
- Microsoft TechForum unveils three research projects (video)
- Samsung Galaxy S Blaze 4G hands-on
- Huawei Ascend G 300 hands-on at MWC 2012 (video)
- Samsung Galaxy Tab 7.7 hitting Verizon on March 1st for $500 on contract
- Mozilla Boot to Gecko hands-on (video)
- Facebook to simplify in-app payments with streamlined carrier billing
- Sony boosts superzoom collection with DSC-HX200V, HX30V, HX20V, HX10V, H90 Cyber-shots
- Nokia Lumia 900 in white hands-on
- SanDisk Extreme SSD has 'mighty' mix of performance and support
- Samsung Galaxy S WiFi 4.2 hands-on (video)
- Samsung Galaxy Mini 2 hands-on (video)
- Samsung ChatON now available as web-based messaging client
- Sierra Wireless introduces 76x range of AirCard 4G Mobile Hotspots
- Nokia Reading and Transport for Windows Phone, hands-on (video)
- Samsung Galaxy Ace 2 hands-on (video)
- The Engadget Interview: Nokia Lead for Imaging Experience Damian Dinning at MWC 2012 (video)
- Galaxy Tab 2 (10.1) with 3G radios hits the FCC, gets Uncle Sam's stamp of approval
- LG's demonstrating LTE voice-to-video call switching at MWC
- Toyota and Samsung turn your smartphone into a second display for your ride
- Panasonic names Kazuhiro Tsuga as new president after old one loses $9 billion
- LG Optimus L-style series hands-on
- Canon EOS-1D X ship date slips into April, takes with it our hearts
- Midi Fighter 3D has arcade buttons and motion control, still can't throw fireballs
- HBO Go coming to Xbox 360 on April 1st
- IBM: We're on the cusp of the Quantum Computing revolution (video)
- Sony announces quartet of Cyber-shot cams, boasts of slim profiles and tough skin
| Samsung updates S Pen SDK to 2.0, SCanvasView brings Note animation and narration Posted: 28 Feb 2012 09:54 AM PST  |
| Audi comes clean on A3 e-tron pilot program, electric mobility coming to four US cities Posted: 28 Feb 2012 09:35 AM PST  Audi at TED2012 Announces U.S. Introduction of A3 e-tron Electric Vehicle Pilot Program - Audi battery-electric vehicle in-market program debuts in U.S. - Research-based A3 e-tron pilot program to serve as a learning tool for next-gen Audi EV applications world wide - At TED, Audi engages attendees in a progressive conversation about urban mobility and "The City 2.0" with the A3 e-tron and Audi A2 concept vehicle Audi today announced the battery-electric Audi A3 e-tron pilot program in the U.S. to define a progressive e-mobility driver experience for premium car buyers. Audi made the announcement of the engineering-based pilot program for the A3 e-tron today at TED2012 in Long Beach, Calif., where Audi is presenting a vision for the role transportation will play in the world's increasingly congested urban centers of the future. The A3 e-tron pilot program marks the first step by Audi into the expanding U.S. electric vehicle landscape, which is a central component of the discussion expected at the Audi Social Space at TED2012. At TED2012, Audi intends to spark a progressive dialogue about the role transportation will play in the global megacities of the future. The Audi Social Space will present a variety of perspectives on this topic on touch-screen video installations allowing attendees to pose new mobility scenarios for future urban spaces and contribute in real time to Audi's live Twitter feed through the #TEDAudi hashtag. Elements of Audi balanced mobility initiatives will provide a backdrop for the interactive Social Space and spark conversation on future urban mobility and how to achieve CO2 neutrality across the mobility chain. Initiatives include: the lightweight A2 concept EV that features technology built specifically for the megacity of the future, like traffic-friendly piloted drive technologies for stop-and-go congestion; the Audi e-gas project, which utilizes offshore wind turbines to generate clean power for the production of electricity, hydrogen and methane; and futuristic cityscapes designed by partner architects of the Audi Urban Future Initiative. Audi A3 e-tron, a global debut Adding a new electric dimension to driving performance, the Audi A3 e-tron pilot program will allow Audi to identify challenges and opportunities with plug-in vehicles as progressive luxury car buyers become increasingly receptive to EV technology. By studying e-tron use across multiple geographical regions, Audi will monitor the effect of climate conditions, driving patterns and energy performance and use insight gained in the final development of future EV technology applications. The A3 e-tron pilot program will take place in the San Francisco, Los Angeles, Washington D.C., and Denver markets. "As part of the long-range Audi corporate goal of moving toward CO2-neutral mobility, there will be e-tron plug-in vehicle products exhibiting all of the performance and design attributes Audi drivers have come to expect," said Johan de Nysschen, President, Audi of America. "Audi is committed to refining Audi e-tron technology and we expect our plug-in vehicles to become a significant choice for our buyers within a growing line of advanced, efficient Audi powertrains over the coming years." With the A3 e-tron pilot program Audi engineers and technical experts will explore EVs in a real world setting and monitor in real-time how e-tron technology operates in everyday scenarios. The pilot will run throughout the year and provide actionable feedback and telematics data to Audi engineering teams in the U.S. and Germany. This approach follows the Audi philosophy of engineering innovation by introducing fully developed alternative technology to ensure no compromises are needed by Audi owners. "The A3 e-tron pilot program serves as an important innovation platform for Audi to develop greater insight into electric vehicles and how American driving conditions affect use of the progressive technology in everyday life," said Jeff Curry, e-mobility and sustainability strategy lead at Audi of America. "We will integrate the data generated from this program into the launch of a range of Audi e-tron models for American drivers." The e-tron name indicates that an advanced electrified power train with a plug-in capability is onboard. As a core philosophy of e-tron, Audi engineers are researching e-tron power concepts tailored to different vehicle types and driving needs including full battery-electric (BEV), plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and extended range electric (EREV) versions. The goal is to have the right product for the market at the right time – the best solution for the individual requirements of Audi customers. Audi e-tron becomes the latest entry to Audi's stable of ingredient technologies, including Audi ultra lightweight construction, Audi TDI® clean diesel, Audi connect™ navigation and infotainment and Audi's signature quattro® all-wheel drive. Based on the award-winning Audi A3, currently sold to U.S. consumers in gasoline-powered and clean diesel TDI configurations, the Audi A3 e-tron features a fully electric powertrain with a 26kw lithium-ion battery, and zero driving emissions. Providing a sporty driving dynamic, Audi A3 e-tron has 199 lb-ft torque, a battery range of approximately 90 miles and a top speed of 90 mph all while retaining the full interior space and versatility of the A3. Audi also is working on standardizing peripheral technologies that have to be taken into consideration for wide spread EV adoption and use, including driving the establishment in 2011 of common global standards for charging. As part of the pilot program, Audi will develop its network of infrastructure partners, test advanced services and create partnerships that will be central to providing the premium Audi experience for e-tron buyers. For more information on the Audi A3 e-tron, including video clips and photos, please visit audiusanews.com. About TED TED is a nonprofit organization devoted to Ideas Worth Spreading. Started as a four-day conference in California 25 years ago, TED has grown to support those world-changing ideas with multiple initiatives. The annual TED Conference invites the world's leading thinkers and doers to speak for 18 minutes. Their talks are then made available, free, at TED.com. TED speakers have included Bill Gates, Al Gore, Jane Goodall, Elizabeth Gilbert, Sir Richard Branson, Nandan Nilekani, Philippe Starck, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Isabel Allende and former UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown. The annual TED Conference takes place each spring in Long Beach, California, along with the TEDActive simulcast in Palm Springs; the annual TEDGlobal conference is held each summer in Edinburgh, Scotland. TED's media initiatives include TED.com, where new TEDTalks are posted daily, the Open Translation Project, which provides subtitles and interactive transcripts as well as the ability for any TEDTalk to be translated by volunteers worldwide, and TEDBooks, short e-books by speakers that elaborate on a single idea originally presented on TED's stage. TED has established the annual TED Prize, where exceptional individuals with a wish to change the world are given the opportunity to put their wishes into action; TEDx, which offers individuals or groups a way to host local, self-organized events around the world, and the TED Fellows program, helping world-changing innovators from around the globe to become part of the TED community and, with its help, amplify the impact of their remarkable projects and activities. Follow TED on Twitter at http://twitter.com/TEDTalks, or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/TED ABOUT AUDI Audi of America, Inc. and its U.S. dealers offer a full line of German-engineered luxury vehicles. AUDI AG is among the most successful luxury automotive brands globally. Audi was a top-performing luxury brand in Europe during 2011, and broke all-time company sales records in the U.S. Through 2016, AUDI AG will invest about $17 billion on new products and technologies. Visit www.audiusa.com or www.audiusanews.com for more information regarding Audi vehicle and business issues. |
| Pacemaker and RIM announce exclusive DJ app for PlayBook Posted: 28 Feb 2012 09:17 AM PST  |
| Join us for Microsoft's Windows 8 press conference tomorrow at 9:30am EST! Posted: 28 Feb 2012 09:00 AM PST  If you're Microsoft and in the process of overhauling Windows so that it's equally at home on PCs and tablets, it would make sense to unveil a semi-final version at the world's premier wireless show. That's exactly what's going to happen tomorrow, when the company's executive team takes the stage here in Barcelona to show off all the changes it's made to Win8 since we got hands-on with the Developer Preview five months ago. Though we still won't know tomorrow what the final version will look like, we'll have a much firmer idea, as this will be the first version available to the general Windows-using populace. So what does Redmond have up its sleeve? Will the Windows Store open for business? A first look at some native touch-friendly apps? And what's to become of the Start button? Bookmark this page and come back tomorrow at 9:30am EST (3:30pm local time), when we'll be firing off up-to-the-minute updates. See you then! |
| LightSquared CEO Sanjiv Ahuja steps down, company remains committed to wireless network Posted: 28 Feb 2012 08:59 AM PST  The shakeup continues at LightSquared. Just days after the would-be LTE wholesaler confirmed that it would be cutting its staff by 45 percent, it's now announced that CEO Sanjiv Ahuja has resigned from his position, although he will continue to serve as chairman of the board. Chief network officer Doug Smitand and chief financial officer Marc Montagner will serve as co-chief operating officers as the company searches for a new CEO. What's more, LightSquared has also announced that billionaire backer Philip A. Falcone has been appointed to the company's board of directors, and he himself has reiterated the company's intent to build out its wireless network, noting that it is "committed to working with the appropriate entities to find a solution to the recent regulatory issues." The company's official announcement can be found after the break. LightSquared Undertakes Search for New CEO; Affirms Intent to Build Wireless Network Sanjiv Ahuja Steps Down As CEO; Chief Network Officer Doug Smith and Chief Financial Officer Marc Montagner to Serve as Interim Co-Chief Operating Officers; Philip Falcone Appointed to Board RESTON, Va., Feb. 28, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- LightSquared today announced that Sanjiv Ahuja has resigned his position as chief executive officer. He will continue to serve as chairman of the board. Doug Smith, currently chief network officer, and Marc Montagner, currently chief financial officer, will be named as interim co-chief operating officers, while the company completes the search for the new CEO. In addition, Philip A. Falcone, CEO and CIO of Harbinger Capital Partners, has been appointed to the company's board of directors. The CEO search is expected to be completed in the near future. "Sanjiv has shown great leadership in bringing the LightSquared vision to this point, including leveraging his experience in the telecom industry to sign dozens of critical partnerships across the country," said Mr. Falcone. "As the company takes the next step forward, we continue to be excited about the prospects and look forward to working with new leadership to accomplish our goal of building and operating an innovative, competitive wireless network." "LightSquared's objective, through its wholesale business model, is to provide increased competition and lower prices in the telecommunications industry, and to bring broadband cellular phone service to rural areas that currently don't have such service and that has not and will not change. That has been our vision from day one," said Mr. Falcone. "The absence of affordable and reliable wireless service options is frustrating for consumers, particularly in these challenging economic times." "We are, furthermore, committed to working with the appropriate entities to find a solution to the recent regulatory issues. We, of course, agree that it is critical to ensure that national security, aviation and the GPS communities are protected. I am confident that working together, we can solve this problem and bring the American consumer the lower priced 4G wireless alternative they need and deserve," Mr. Falcone added. Mr. Falcone noted that the company is also taking an aggressive approach to its finances to ensure that it has adequate financial runway while it works through these issues. "During my tenure at LightSquared, we all worked tirelessly to create the nation's first open wireless broadband network and provide consumers with a new wireless broadband experience," Mr. Ahuja said. "That work continues and I wish the company and its fine management team well as they work to achieve this important goal." As chief network officer, Mr. Smith is responsible for LightSquared's network design, deployment and operations, and is the lead architect behind developing the technical characteristics necessary to bring to market a competitive high-speed wireless network. Previously, he held a number of leadership positions at Clearwire and Sprint Nextel, managing technical, engineering and network operations. As chief financial officer, Mr. Montagner is responsible for the company's daily financial operations and oversees investor and bondholder relations. He has nearly 25 years of experience in financial and corporate development for the wireless communications sector, including working for such companies as France Telecom, Morgan Stanley, Sprint Nextel and Banc of America Securities, the investment banking arm of Bank of America. "Doug and Marc have been recognized leaders in the industry and bring an exceptional combination of experience, intellect and character to the management team," Mr. Falcone said. "They also know our opportunities and challenges as well as anyone, and are uniquely suited to lead the company forward. I look forward to working closely with them to bring affordable, reliable and high-speed wireless connectivity to all Americans." About LightSquared LightSquared's mission is to revolutionize the U.S. wireless industry. With the creation of the first-ever, wholesale-only nationwide 4G-LTE network integrated with satellite coverage, LightSquared offers people the speed, value and reliability of universal connectivity, wherever they are in the United States. As a wholesale-only operator, LightSquared will deploy an open 4G wireless broadband network to be used by existing and new service providers to sell their own devices, applications and services- at a competitive cost and without retail competition from LightSquared. The deployment and operation of LightSquared's network represent more than $14 billion of private investment over the next eight years. For more information about LightSquared, please go to www.LightSquared.com, www.facebook.com/LightSquared and www.twitter.com/ LightSquared. |
| Verizon CFO says shared data plans coming mid-year Posted: 28 Feb 2012 08:49 AM PST  We've already from Verizon's CEO Lowell McAdam that the carrier was planning to offer shared data plans. And leaks have indicated that the carrier is already prepping its backend system for the change. Now CFO Fran Shammo has narrowed down the time frame a bit for us, telling a group of investors that family data plans should debut towards the middle of the year. But, he was quick to clarify this isn't as simple as setting a launch date. The shift to the new billing system will take time and not everyone will be migrated on day one. Still, Shammo indicated it will be an important part of the ongoing transition to 4G and its future plans for mobile dominance.Update: We mistakenly identified Fran Shammo as the CTO when, in fact, he is the CFO. |
| ELVIIS Volvo C30 EV charges from any standard outlet, bills the driver (hands-on) Posted: 28 Feb 2012 08:31 AM PST  We jumped into the passenger seat of one of five existing ELVIIS cars -- built around an all-electric Volvo C30 -- and poked around the charging interface. The project isn't fully operational just yet, and was running in demo mode so there's no way to verify that it works as described, but it definitely appears to be solid, with Ericsson providing financial and development support. Eventually, it will use the car's GPS to identify nearby power outlets -- for now, you need to enter a specific outlet ID. There's also an Android app that allows you to monitor and reschedule charging, so if you programmed your car to be completely charged by 7AM but realized that you need to leave at 6, you can make sure you're covered without getting out of bed. But you don't need to go anywhere to see it in action -- just click on past the break. |
| Apple iPad event confirmed for March 7th in San Francisco Posted: 28 Feb 2012 08:08 AM PST  You've heard all the rumors, and now Apple has finally confirmed the details of its next iPad launch event. It will take place on Wednesday, March 7th at the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts Theater in San Francisco. The company is keeping things suitably vague beyond that, of course, promising only that it has "something you really have to see. And touch." You can be sure we'll be there live to find out exactly what that might be. |
| '4G' Sony Tablet P coming to AT&T on March 4th for $400 Posted: 28 Feb 2012 07:43 AM PST  Sony Tablet™ P Available on AT&T 4G Network Unique Tablet Design Features Two 5.5 Inch Screens, Easily Fits into a Pocket or Purse DALLAS, Feb. 28, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- AT&T* today announced Sony Tablet™ P, a dual screen, multi-functional tablet ideal for mobile communication and entertainment, will be available beginning March 4. The 4G tablet will be sold for $399.99 with a two-year service agreement in more than 1,000 AT&T company-owned retail stores and online at www.att.com. The new Sony Tablet P pushes the design of a tablet even further by elevating the user experience to entirely new levels. The unprecedented dual-screen layout of Sony Tablet™ P allows its two 5.5-inch displays to be used for different functions such as playing video on one screen while using the other as a controller, or checking email on one screen while using the other as a keyboard. Customers can also combine the displays into a single large screen and its unique folding design means it can fit easily into a pocket or purse. At launch, users will be able to download apps optimized for the dual screens of Sony Tablet P via Sony's "Select App," including games, entertainment and lifestyle applications. In addition to optimized apps, Sony Tablet P users will have access to the full suite of Android applications via Android Market. Like its predecessor, Sony Tablet P is PlayStation™ Certified and provides access to the full suite of Sony Network Entertainment services. Sony Tablet devices are distinguished by four key features that set them apart from any other tablets on the market. These include: uniquely designed hardware and software, a "swift and smooth" experience (which includes Sony original features, Quick view and Quick touch), network entertainment services and cross-device connectivity. Running on Android 3.2, Sony Tablet™ P is 4G**capable and Wi-Fi compatible. With a qualifying data plan, users of Sony Tablet™ P also have access to AT&T's mobile broadband network and unlimited access to AT&T's nearly 30,000 hot spots nationwide. With both 4G and Wi-Fi, customers can browse the Internet, access digital content including videos, games, and check e-mail, while on the go, nearly anytime. Data Plans Customers who sign a two-year service agreement have two postpaid data plan options to choose from, including: AT&T DataConnect 3GB: $35 for 3GB AT&T DataConnect 5GB: $50 for 5GB Customers may still choose from the existing monthly billing options, or prepaid options, with no long-term commitment. The Sony Tablet P without a long term contract will cost $549.99. The prepaid plan options include: AT&T DataConnect 250MB: $14.99 for 250MB AT&T DataConnect 3GB: $30 for 3GB AT&T DataConnect 5GB: $50 for 5GB Specifications Display Resolution: 1024 x 480 (each screen) Screen Size: 5.5" (x 2 - dual screens) Hardware Camera: Front – 0.3 Megapixel Rear – 5 Megapixel Inputs and Outputs Headphone Output: 1 MicroUSB: 1 Memory Internal Memory: 1GB Power Battery Life (Approx): Up to 7 hours (based on general usage) Battery Type: Li-Ion Processor Processor Type: NVIDIA® Tegra™2 mobile processor, dual-core 1GHz Software Operating System: Android 3.2 Storage External storage: microSD card slot (expandable up to 32GB, 2GB microSD card included) Internal Storage Capacity: 4GB Weights and Measurements Dimensions (Approx.): Open - 6.23l x 7.09w x 0.56h (inches) Closed - 3.12l x 7.09w x 1.03 h (inches) Weight (Approx.): 0.83 lbs Wireless/Networking Bluetooth® Technology: Bluetooth version 2.1 + EDR Wi-Fi: IEEE802.11b/g/n For more information on AT&T, please visit www.att.com. *AT&T products and services are provided or offered by subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. under the AT&T brand and not by AT&T Inc. **4G speeds delivered by HSPA+ with enhanced backhaul. Available in limited areas. Availability increasing with ongoing backhaul deployment. Requires 4G compatible device. Learn more at att.com/network. ***Access includes AT&T Wi-Fi Basic. Wi-Fi enabled device required. Other restrictions apply. See www.attwifi.com for details and locations Testing conducted by Sony. Testing consisted of full battery. Battery life depends on device settings, usage, the condition of battery pack, and many other factors. "Standard usage" means browsing web with Wi-Fi, playing music, playing video for the same amount of time. The built-in battery is consumable About AT&T AT&T Inc. (NYSE: T) is a premier communications holding company and one of the most honored companies in the world. Its subsidiaries and affiliates – AT&T operating companies – are the providers of AT&T services in the United States and around the world. With a powerful array of network resources that includes the nation's fastest mobile broadband network, AT&T is a leading provider of wireless, Wi-Fi, high speed Internet, voice and cloud-based services. A leader in mobile broadband and emerging 4G capabilities, AT&T also offers the best wireless coverage worldwide of any U.S. carrier, offering the most wireless phones that work in the most countries. It also offers advanced TV services under the AT&T U-verse® and AT&T | DIRECTV brands. The company's suite of IP-based business communications services is one of the most advanced in the world. In domestic markets, AT&T Advertising Solutions and AT&T Interactive are known for their leadership in local search and advertising. Additional information about AT&T Inc. and the products and services provided by AT&T subsidiaries and affiliates is available at http://www.att.com. This AT&T news release and other announcements are available at http://www.att.com/newsroom and as part of an RSS feed at www.att.com/rss. Or follow our news on Twitter at @ATT. © 2012 AT&T Intellectual Property. All rights reserved. Mobile broadband not available in all areas. AT&T, the AT&T logo and all other marks contained herein are trademarks of AT&T Intellectual Property and/or AT&T affiliated companies. All other marks contained herein are the property of their respective owners. SOURCE AT&T Inc. |
| T-Mobile HTC One S hands-on at MWC 2012 Posted: 28 Feb 2012 07:41 AM PST  In nearly every respect, the model we saw was the same as the global version we got acquainted with just two days ago. The only exceptions were found in T-Mo's choice of color (more of a gun metal grey flanked by light black on the top and bottom) and the obligatory carrier-branded bloatware. The apps aren't going anywhere, of course, but T-Mobile was quick to point out that the hardware and software aren't final. We believe it -- evidenced by the lack of any carrier branding on the phone -- but we can't be sure exactly how different it'll look by the time it comes hot off the press. Either way, we still captured a few images to keep your level of intrigue up to the max. Sean Cooper contributed to this hands-on. For more coverage of MWC 2012, visit here. |
| NEC Medias series makes the trip to MWC, we go eyes-on Posted: 28 Feb 2012 07:19 AM PST  |
| CNBC: Quad-core iPad 3 with LTE to be unveiled in New York Posted: 28 Feb 2012 07:14 AM PST  Update: Here it comes. The official invitations have been sent out by the company to an event in San Francisco on March 7th. |
| Sprint raising $2 billion, may throw some dough Clearwire's way Posted: 28 Feb 2012 06:45 AM PST  |
| The Engadget Interview: Nokia CEO Stephen Elop at MWC 2012 (video) Posted: 28 Feb 2012 06:15 AM PST  Not one, not two, but three Nokia interviews at Mobile World Congress? Yes, we were lucky to catch up with CEO Stephen Elop -- whom we last saw at CES -- and chat about the Lumia 610, the white Lumia 900, the 808 PureView imaging flagship, and a hint at what kind of cameras we can expect in the company's future Windows Phone handsets. Just hit the break to watch our video interview. |
| Microsoft TechForum unveils three research projects (video) Posted: 28 Feb 2012 06:14 AM PST  [Thanks, Lokitoth] |
| Samsung Galaxy S Blaze 4G hands-on Posted: 28 Feb 2012 06:10 AM PST  T-Mobile insists the Blaze is a great lower-end complement to the $200 Galaxy S II, though to that end we'd have to disagree with the phone's $150 price point. Even though the processors are the same in both handsets and the two devices offer the same HSPA+ radio and TouchWiz UI 4.0, most of the phone's other components are still rolled over from the original series. That said, our only real concern here is the price -- the Blaze itself is well built, and most folks looking to keep their cellular telephones in the mid-range will find its performance and specs quite reasonable. You'll want to peel those eyes to the gallery and our video down below. Sean Cooper contributed to this report |
| Huawei Ascend G 300 hands-on at MWC 2012 (video) Posted: 28 Feb 2012 05:52 AM PST  Huawei's all about the D Quad at this year's Mobile World Congress, but that's not everything in the manufacturer's arsenal. Having seen the first devices from its D (Diamond) and P (Platinum) series, we've been wondering how the third-tier G (Gold) handsets would turn out. Huawei's booth holds the answer to our lingering question in the form of the Ascend G 300, a predictably lower- to mid-range smartphone packing a 1GHz single-core CPU, 4-inch WVGA display, 5MP rear camera along with other modest specs. While it's clear that Huawei's major focus is on bumping up its specs and becoming a major player in relevance and performance, we've only seen that strategy reflected on its top two tiers. The G 300, in contrast, doesn't feel any different in build quality than its older budget-conscious cousins; it employs the company's signature gray / white (or gray / black) look on the back. The edges and sides of the device are slightly different, varying by its color: the versions in black are soft-touch plastic, while its white counterpart is completely smooth, much like the rest of the phone. The battery cover felt rather flimsy, and one unit on hand looked as though it were coming apart, the cracks far too distanced for our comfort. The OS on hand is Android 2.3, accompanied with the usual MWC promise of being "upgradeable to ICS," and uses the same homegrown skin we saw a couple months ago on the Huawei Honor. Of course, this one will likely hit at a low price point, so don't be tempted to compare this particular handset with some of the vendor's more premier options. It's not going to be as polished, but it's not meant to be. So while the 10.5mm-thick device will be perfectly reasonable for many, power users won't be waiting in line for this one to come out at a yet to be determined time. Still curious? Keep scanning your eyes below to find the gallery and movie. Dana Wollman contributed to this hands-on. For more coverage of MWC 2012, visit here. |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab 7.7 hitting Verizon on March 1st for $500 on contract Posted: 28 Feb 2012 05:45 AM PST 
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| Mozilla Boot to Gecko hands-on (video) Posted: 28 Feb 2012 05:22 AM PST  |
| Facebook to simplify in-app payments with streamlined carrier billing Posted: 28 Feb 2012 05:11 AM PST  Need another watering can to irrigate those crops on your highly-profitable Facebook farm? Soon you may be able to boot that expense directly to your monthly mobile tab, just as you do with other necessities, like ringtones and emoticons. The social networking site is working with carriers to streamline billing, eventually enabling Facebook users to pay their app dues along with their monthly phone bill. Naturally, this is a win for developers, since eliminating the need to pre-purchase Credits or enter card information will result in an increased number of impulse purchases -- and let's face it, there's no line item for FarmVille in the monthly budget. Quite a few carriers appear to be on board -- AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon in the U.S.; Deutsche Telekom, Orange, Telefonica and Vodafone in Europe; and KDDI and Softbank in Japan -- so it looks like devs should have plenty of reasons to celebrate. The service will be automatically activated once providers support it, enabling easier purchases for "hundreds of millions of people worldwide." Streamlined carrier billing is but one recent development, so hit up the source link for the full rundown. |
| Sony boosts superzoom collection with DSC-HX200V, HX30V, HX20V, HX10V, H90 Cyber-shots Posted: 28 Feb 2012 04:56 AM PST  All of the cameras include 18.2-megapixel Exmor R CMOS sensors, with the exception of the lower-shelf H90, with its 16.1-megapixel CCD. That lower-end model also stands alone in the display department, with a 3-inch 460k-dot LCD, compared to the 3-inch 921k-dot screens on the other four models. All five cameras can capture HD video, with the H90 shooting at 720/30p, the HX10V offering 1080/60i and the HX20V, 30V and 200V capturing at 1080/60p. As you may have gathered, the H90 is the least expensive of the lot, and is also the only model to exclude GPS, selling for $250 when it hits stores next month. The HX10V and HX200V will also ship in March, with pricing set at $330 and $480, respectively, while the HX20V and 30V will be available in May for $400 and $420. As always, you'll find full details in the PR just past the break. GET CLOSER TO THE ACTION WITH NEW HIGH-ZOOM SONY CYBER-SHOT CAMERAS New Cyber-shot "H Series" Feature Newly Designed, Ultra-thin Zoom lenses, Wi-Fi® Capabilities SAN DIEGO, Feb. 27, 2012 – Sony's new "H-Series" high-zoom Cyber-shot cameras make it easy to capture crisp, beautiful photos and HD videos from a variety of distances. Ideal for travel photography or simply capturing everyday content, the five new models include the DSC-HX200V, DSC-HX30V, DSC-HX20V, DSC-HX10V and DSC-H90 cameras. The HX30V and HX20V models will each feature a new, ultra-thin 20x optical lens, which enhances zoom capabilities while still maintaining a small, compact body. Additionally, the HX30V will feature Wi-Fi® capabilities, allowing for seamless transfer of photos to compatible smartphones, tablets or televisions and sharing via popular social networking services. "Consumers want versatility in a compact camera," said Yosuke Tomoda, director of the Cyber-shot business at Sony Electronics. "By focusing on slim, stylish designs while adding advanced image sensors, strong zoom capabilities and new opportunities to share content socially, we continue to push the boundaries of the category." The new 20x zoom "AA" (advanced aspherical) lens element in the HX30V and HX20V models produces outstanding results with a design drastically smaller than comparable 20x lenses in previous models. The thinly-designed lens, which requires highly sophisticated glass molding to create, allows the camera chasses to remain as compact as possible. In addition to its strong zoom capabilities, the new "AA" lens can focus at a minimum distance of approximately 1 cm for stunning, clear macro shots. The new DSC-HX30V model features Wi-Fi® capabilities, allowing it to link directly and transfer content to a variety of compatible devices including smartphones, tablets and televisions. Using the new PlayMemories™ Mobile application from Sony, images can then be shared easily from the host device on Facebook®, YouTube® and other popular sharing sites. The Play Memories app is currently available for free download on both the iTunes® app store and Android Market™. High-Zoom, High-Resolution The new HX200V, HX30V, HX20V and HX10V cameras all have a new Sony 18.2 MP "Exmor R" CMOS sensor, the highest resolution sensor currently offered in the mainstream "point and shoot" market. The new sensor teams with an advanced BIONZ® processor to deliver blazing fast AutoFocus speeds of approximately 0.13 seconds in daylight and 0.21 seconds in low-light shooting situations (in case of fastest model, measured at 3 EV). Additionally, the new cameras feature "Clear Image Zoom" digital zoom technology, which boosts optical zoom to 2x virtual capabilities (i.e. 20x optical to 40x "Clear Image Zoom") while maintaining full resolution. The high-end HX200V features a 30x optical zoom (60x "Clear Image Zoom"), with the HX30V and HX20V cameras each offering 20x optical zoom (40x "Clear Image Zoom") and the HX10V model offering 16x optical zoom (32x "Clear Image Zoom"). Each of these new models has "Optical Steady Shot" to reduce any blurring caused by camera shake during shooting – even with the zoom extended - as well as some creative photographic settings. The entry-level H90 zoom camera has a 16.1 MP CCD sensor, 16x optical zoom lens, 720p HD video capabilities, enhanced image stabilization for both stills and movie shooting (Optical Steady Shot Active Mode) and a variety of other useful features. Product Specs, Pricing and Availability The new assortment of high-zoom "H Series" cameras will be available at Sony retail stores and online (www.store.sony.com) as well as other authorized retailers throughout the Sony dealer network. Detailed specifications are below: • The DSC-HX200V camera will be available in black this March for approximately $480. Features include: • 18.2 MP "Exmor R" CMOS sensor • 30x optical zoom lens (27-810mm in 35mm format) with 60x digital "Clear Image Zoom" at full resolution • "Extra High Sensitivity" technology enhances low-light shooting capabilities • Lightning-fast AF speed of approximately 0.13 second in daylight, 0.24 seconds in low-light at 3 EV (speeds may vary based on shooting conditions) • 3.0-inch, 921k dot resolution tilting LCD screen • Captures 13MP equivalent still images while shooting video via "Dual-Record" • Full HD Movie Shooting capability (1920x1080/60p) and Optical SteadyShot Active Mode (3 way shake cancelling) • Photo Creativity interface and 9 "Picture Effect" options for creating unique, custom-styled photos and video • Embedded GPS functionality with newly added GPS Log Recording function • The DSC-HX30V camera will be available in black this May for approximately $420. Features include: • 18.2 MP "Exmor R" CMOS sensor • 20x optical zoom lens (25-500mm in 35mm format) with 40x digital "Clear Image Zoom" at full resolution • Wi-Fi enabled for sharing content directly with compatible smartphone, PC, tablet or other devices • "Extra High Sensitivity" technology enhances low-light shooting capabilities • Lightning-fast AF speed of approximately 0.13 second in daylight, 0.21 seconds in low-light at 3 EV (speeds may vary based on shooting conditions) • 3.0-inch, 921k dot LCD screen • Captures13MP equivalent still images while shooting video via "Dual-Record" • Full HD Movie Shooting capability (1920x1080/60p) and Optical SteadyShot Active Mode (3 way shake cancelling) • Photo Creativity interface and 9 "Picture Effect" options for creating unique, custom-styled photos and video • Embedded GPS functionality with newly added GPS Log Recording function • Manufactured with "SoRPlas" – Sony recycled plastic – an exceptionally durable plastic containing 99% recycled materials • The DSC-HX20V camera will be available in black this May for approximately $400. Features include: • 18.2 MP "Exmor R" CMOS sensor • 20x optical zoom lens (25-500mm in 35mm format) with 40x digital "Clear Image Zoom" at full resolution • "Extra High Sensitivity" technology enhances low-light shooting capabilities • Lightning-fast AF speed of approximately 0.13 second in daylight, 0.21 seconds in low-light at 3 EV (speeds may vary based on shooting conditions) • 3.0-inch, 921k dot LCD screen • Captures 13MP equivalent still images while shooting video via "Dual-Record" • Full HD Movie Shooting capability (1920x1080/60p) and Optical SteadyShot Active Mode (3 way shake cancelling) • Photo Creativity interface and 9 "Picture Effect" options for creating unique, custom-styled photos and video • Embedded GPS functionality with newly added GPS Log Recording function • Manufactured with "SoRPlas" – Sony recycled plastic – an exceptionally durable plastic containing 99% recycled materials • The DSC-HX10V camera will be available in white, silver, black and red this March for approximately $330. Features include: • 18.2 MP "Exmor R" CMOS sensor • 16x optical zoom lens (24-384mm in 35mm format) with 40x digital "Clear Image Zoom" at full resolution • "Extra High Sensitivity" technology enhances low-light shooting capabilities • Lightning-fast AF speed of approximately 0.13 second in daylight, 0.22 seconds in low-light at 3 EV (speeds may vary based on shooting conditions) • 3.0-inch, 921k dot LCD screen • Captures 13 MP equivalent still images while shooting video via "Dual-Record" • Full HD Movie Shooting capability (1920x1080/60i) and Optical SteadyShot Active Mode (2 way shake cancelling) • Photo Creativity interface and 9 "Picture Effect" options for creating unique, custom-styled photos and video • Embedded GPS functionality with newly added GPS Log Recording function • The DSC-H90 camera will be available in silver, black and red this March for approximately $250. Features include: • 16.1 MP CCD sensor • 16x optical zoom lens (24-384mm in 35mm format) • 3.0-inch, 460k dot LCD screen • 720p HD Movie Shooting capability (1280x720/30p), Optical SteadyShot Active Mode • Improved iAuto mode that can recognize up to 33 scenes • 4 "Picture Effect" options for creating unique, custom-styled photos and video |
| Nokia Lumia 900 in white hands-on Posted: 28 Feb 2012 04:36 AM PST  What can we say, white sets are somehow more pleasant to behold than the typical black slabs we see. Nokia's glossy Lumia 900 is no exception; in fact we're all in a heated debate about exactly which color we'd choose and which theme makes it look best. Device color aside, there's nothing new here, but we know we'd be breaking hearts if we didn't get all close and personal with the only color we've not had a chance to play with. Gallery is just past the break -- but for the record, dark theme with blue tiles looks so sharp. Brad Molen contributed to this post. |
| SanDisk Extreme SSD has 'mighty' mix of performance and support Posted: 28 Feb 2012 04:28 AM PST  |
| Samsung Galaxy S WiFi 4.2 hands-on (video) Posted: 28 Feb 2012 04:00 AM PST  The redesigned media player felt solid in the hand, despite the plastic build. Metallic features, like the chrome-styled speaker grills either side of the display, looked to be of premium quality although the primary 2-megapixel camera leaves plenty to be desired. Sound quality out of the speakers seemed respectable, but it's obviously pretty difficult to tell within the madness of MWC and this is a device made for earphones. It's just under 9mm thick, but forgoes the chin found on sister devices like the Galaxy S II which is its closest relative. Video playback on the TFT IPS screen was noticeably clearer than its predecessor although it still matches the 480 x 800 resolution of last year's PMP. Navigation and UI is a typically TouchWiz affair, with the obvious exception of telephony apps. If you've used any Android device you should have no problems making your way through the media player's smartphone-esque feature set. Performance-wise the 1GHz processor gives a similar performance to existing phones sporting the same hardware; the web browser stuttered along at times but was functional, while the availability of both 8 and 16GB models (and microSD support) should ensure that there's enough space for all those binaural beat tracks. Unfortunately, both pricing and availability still remain a mystery, but we vow to update when we hear anything on launch markets or release dates. Joseph Volpe contributed to this report. |
| Samsung Galaxy Mini 2 hands-on (video) Posted: 28 Feb 2012 03:31 AM PST  At first glance, the Mini 2 is an endearing handset, bordered by a silver trim and encased with a sunny, yellow plastic casing. Generally, the phone follows in the Ace 2's design footsteps, with the same layout of hardware keys: signature home button on the base, power on the right, volume rocker and microSD slot on the left, 3.5mm headphone jack up top, as well as a port for microUSB at its bottom. Below its removable back are a 1,300mAh battery and a SIM slot hidden just beneath it. Thanks to its ultra-compact construction, the handset is a joy to hold, fitting quite snugly in our palms. Like its stablemate, we would have preferred for this smaller unit to be slightly lighter, but that extra bit of weight does inspire confidence in its durability. Power on the screen and you'll immediately notice the lower pixel density of the HVGA display. Again, we can't moan and groan too much about this low-end spec given the space it occupies on the consumer spectrum. As you might imagine, viewing angles are rather poor, evincing a loss of contrast and washout with a slight tilt. But, if this is the class of phone you're after, you probably won't notice, nor care much about that decrease in screen quality. Surprisingly, performance on this Android 2.3.6 handset exceeded our expectations. Somewhat curiously, the device, sporting a sole 800MHz processor, managed to outpace the dual-core Ace 2, responding much more rapidly to our touch and moving in and out of applications with an appreciable speed boost. Browsing, however, wasn't quite as speedy. We're not quite sure what could account for this noticeable difference considering both run the same software and TouchWiz UX. Imaging aficionados won't have much to salivate over here, as the Mini 2 comes equipped with a 3.2 megapixel shooter capable of 480p video capture. We didn't have time to test the module, but it's safe to say picture quality should be average at best. As you might expect the camera app is customized for Samsung's UX and offers up the usual array of scene modes and exposure settings. The Mini 2 will be the first of Sammy's two low-to-mid rangers to hit Europe early this spring, with a planned March launch for consumers in France. It's the ideal handset for Moms, luddites and otherwise next-gen spec-averse wireless users. If you count yourself amongst that lot, then this wee Gingerbread wonder is for you. Mat Smith contributed to this report. |
| Samsung ChatON now available as web-based messaging client Posted: 28 Feb 2012 03:24 AM PST  ChatON is Samsung's mobile messaging platform available for Bada, Android, BlackBerry and, yes, iOS phones. Now it's pulled the sheets from the web-based version of the service that allows you to message your frenemies from the comfort of your desktop. As well as short messages, you'll get group chat, multimedia sending, profile pages and buddy charts to let you know who your BFFs are. All of your communiqués and shared multimedia are stored in the "Trunk," a repository for those office-party pictures you wish you'd never sent. You'll also be able to link your desktop and phone accounts so that you're accessible at whatever device you're sat at. Head on down to our source link to go straight to sign up. |
| Sierra Wireless introduces 76x range of AirCard 4G Mobile Hotspots Posted: 28 Feb 2012 02:54 AM PST  Sierra Wireless Unveils Second Generation of AirCard Mobile Hotspots for 4G LTE Networks [The AirCard® 760S, AirCard 762S, and AirCard 763S mobile hotspots are expected to launch in select markets around the world over the next couple of months.] Vancouver, British Columbia and Barcelona, Spain -- Sierra Wireless (NASDAQ: SWIR - News) (TSX: SW.TO - News) today unveiled its newest family of AirCard® mobile hotspots for 4G LTE networks. Following on the success of the AirCard 754S, the new AirCard 760S, AirCard 762S, and AirCard 763S offer several feature enhancements, including an improved user interface, longer battery life, and expanded frequency band support across the product family, providing variants compatible with most common frequency band combinations around the world. The new mobile hotspots are expected to launch in select markets in North America, Australia, Asia, and Europe over the next couple of months. "Our new generation of AirCard mobile hotspots has been built to make the user experience even better," said Dan Schieler, Senior Vice President, Mobile Computing for Sierra Wireless. "We listened to customer feedback and have incorporated new and improved features to make our hotspots even easier to use and the fastest way to keep all your Wi-Fi-enabled devices connected while on the move. We are looking forward to several network launches for these devices in the coming months." The AirCard 76xS mobile hotspot product family supports up to 10 simultaneous Wi-Fi connections(1), providing ample support for a work team or family carrying multiple connected devices on a road trip. On a 4G LTE network it provides sufficient bandwidth to handle demanding applications like online gaming and streaming media. Setup is quick and easy – there is no software to install, and device settings can be easily managed through a web browser. Once setup is complete, users can also connect devices with the push of a button – the Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) button can securely connect a device without requiring a keyboard or large screen. Enhancing the user experience Sierra Wireless AirCard mobile hotspots are known for their informative and user-friendly display screens, which provide all the device information needed to connect and monitor the hotspot network connection and battery life. The new AirCard 76xS product family expands this user interface with the addition of a navigation button that scrolls through additional screens, providing access to messages and alerts, firmware status, and more detailed device information directly from the device itself without logging in to the web interface. This saves users time and makes it easier to use the hotspot with devices that may not have a standard web browser, such as Wi-Fi-enabled cameras or mobile gaming devices. High-bandwidth often requires high power. The new AirCard 76xS product family comes standard with a 2000 milliampere-hour (mAh) battery, expected to improve battery life by approximately 30%(3). For heavy users, an extended battery (3600 mAh) will be available as an accessory purchase. Other accessories available with the AirCard 76xS product family include a desktop charging cradle, an external MIMO antenna, and the AirCard Hub. The AirCard Hub, new from Sierra Wireless and sold separately, turns a mobile hotspot into a small office or residential gateway. It allows users to create a network at home or in the office, connecting up to 20 devices at once, between Wi-Fi and Ethernet, to utilize the 4G LTE connection. The external MIMO antenna, also sold separately, offers an extra reception boost for users in areas with lower 4G LTE signal strength. Launching on select networks worldwide 4G LTE networks are rolling out around the world, but vary widely by region in the frequency bands utilized. The AirCard 76xS mobile hotspot product family offers three variants, each with different frequency band combinations, offering nearly global coverage across the product line. The AirCard 760S will be launched with Telstra in Australia and with NTT DOCOMO MVNO under the brand Netindex in Japan. The AirCard 762S is expected to launch with a mobile network operator in Scandinavia. The AirCard 763S will be launched on the Rogers LTE network in Canada. Exact timing of commercial availability varies by network, but is expected over the next couple of months. |
| Nokia Reading and Transport for Windows Phone, hands-on (video) Posted: 28 Feb 2012 02:41 AM PST  In the case of Nokia Reading, it combines an attractive RSS aggregator and an e-book reader into one application, which fits perfectly within the Metro interface. Users will be able to select from a number of pre-defined news sources (with Engadget among the mix), and search for feeds based on their interest, which is then displayed in an attractive magazine layout. The e-book portion of the app offers both portrait and landscape orientation, allows users to pin individual titles to the home screen for easy access and provides support for audio books. Perhaps most interesting about Nokia Reading, however, is the announcement of the company's own digital bookstore. It'll launch first in Spain, Russia, France, Italy, Germany and the UK, where in every case, local editors will be tasked to provide content that's both popular and relevant to the region. Symbian users are likely quite familiar with Nokia Transport, but the app has now found a new home on Windows Phone. With a heavy emphasis on public transit, it supports time-table routing in over 80 cities and uses map data to provide guidance (without specific times) for more than 500 areas across the globe. As with Nokia Reading, commonly accessed routes can be pinned to the home screen, and while some of the more advanced features of the Symbian application have yet to be integrated into the Windows Phone version, Nokia tells us that additional functionality is on the way. |
| Samsung Galaxy Ace 2 hands-on (video) Posted: 28 Feb 2012 02:23 AM PST  Like most of the company's latest handsets, the back casing is marked by subtle grooves that make for a secure in-hand hold. Beneath that removable cover lies the 1,500mAh battery and SIM slot. While the phone does come pre-loaded with 4GB of internal storage, users will have the ability to augment that capacity via a microSD slot located just below the volume rocker on the Ace 2's lower left side. A 3.5mm headphone jack resides up top, with a tiny power button off to the upper right edge. If you're looking for the company's signature high contrast OLED displays, look elsewhere, the 3.8-inch WVGA display used here is moderately vibrant despite the lack of any over-saturation. That said, we did need to crank up brightness considerably to adequately view the screen in a well-lit environment. Keep in mind, however, that the Ace 2 isn't dressed up in high-end specs to impress; it's meant to be a workhorse for the everyday user, so we'll cut it some slack. It's slated to hit the UK this April, so if this middle of the road entry's caught your eye, you'll know where to find it. Mat Smith contributed to this report. |
| The Engadget Interview: Nokia Lead for Imaging Experience Damian Dinning at MWC 2012 (video) Posted: 28 Feb 2012 02:21 AM PST ` Hot on the heels of yesterday's interview with Stefan Pannenbecker, we had a chance to sit down with Damian Dinning, Lead Manager for Imaging Experience at Nokia, to discuss the mother of all cameraphones -- the Symbian Belle-based 808 PureView -- which was announced yesterday at Mobile World Congress. With such incredible specs as a 41-megapixel sensor and f/2.4 Carl Zeiss autofocus lens, we wanted to get a better understanding of the technology behind this flagship shooter. Watch the video to find out how Nokia is redefining mobile photography by using sub-pixel interpolation and oversampling for high-quality digital zooming and image stabilization, plus improved low-light performance. |
| Galaxy Tab 2 (10.1) with 3G radios hits the FCC, gets Uncle Sam's stamp of approval Posted: 28 Feb 2012 02:05 AM PST  |
| LG's demonstrating LTE voice-to-video call switching at MWC Posted: 28 Feb 2012 01:25 AM PST  Your friend calls you up to have a little gloat: not only did they just get a Mike Tyson-style face tattoo, but they've also snuck into the Xbox prototype lab. Of course, if you demand proof, you'll have to end the call and fire up a video chat -- or at least that's how it used to be. Soon you'll be able to flip seamlessly using LG's new LTE-based voice-to-video switching. The same technology also lets you share video over super-fast mobile internet in real-time as it's being recorded. It's all compliant with industry standards (hopefully meaning it'll be widely adopted) and we'll first see them on LG's smartphones released later in the year. LG's LTE Technology Enables Seamless Switching Between Voice and Video During Phone Conversations BARCELONA, Feb. 28, 2012 –- LG Electronics (LG) successfully demonstrated the world's first voice-to-video conversion over a LTE network at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2012. The demonstration, which was based on LG's proprietary technology, enabled users to switch back and forth between high quality voice and high resolution video call modes during an ongoing telephone conversation. Also demonstrated was a video sharing service, which enables real-time sharing of videos over a LTE network, as they are being recorded. LG's LTE voice-to-video conversion process adheres to the IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) Profile for Conversational Video Service, the industry standard established by the GSMA to govern the delivery of both video and voice data over LTE. LG will launch LTE-capable smartphones compliant with Conversational Video Service later this year. "LG will continue to lead in LTE by developing and introducing innovations that consumers can actually experience and benefit from," said Dr. Jong-seok Park, President and CEO of LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company. "The LTE sector is advancing at light speed and our voice-to-video conversion technology is in the best position to be adopted industry-wide." At last year's MWC, LG successfully demonstrated Voice over LTE (VoLTE) and video calls. Prior to the introduction of LTE technology, high definition video calls on smartphones were not possible, as 3G networks were unable to handle the volume of data at the speeds required for high quality video images. |
| Toyota and Samsung turn your smartphone into a second display for your ride Posted: 28 Feb 2012 12:55 AM PST  Toyota and Samsung are pairing up to get the latter's smartphones to work perfectly with the former's vehicles. The duo will launch Samsung Mobile Car Application to sync your Android device to the in-vehicle-infotainment (IVI) systems of modern cars. You'll be able to use voice control and improve the accuracy of your GPS by hooking it up to mobile internet. At the minute it's just an announcement, we won't see any products entering the market until the second quarter of the year. They just wanted to tease, those lovable scamps. Samsung Electronics to Create Smartphone Connected Car Solution in Collaboration with Toyota Motor Corporation Barcelona, Spain–February 28, 2012 – Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd, a global leader in digital media and digital convergence technologies, today announced a collaboration with Toyota Motor Corporation, to create Samsung Car Mode Application an in-car solution that seamlessly connects Samsung smartphones to Toyota's In-Vehicle Infotainment (IVI) system. The collaboration will see the integration of a wide array of Samsung's smartphone and mobile communication technologies with Toyota's cutting-edge IVI to add enhanced connectivity, multimedia capabilities and internet services. The Samsung Car Mode Application will leverage safety in-car UX, a state of the art voice command technology embedded within smartphones, to provide advanced functionality, navigation and location-based services. Samsung, in partnership with Toyota, is creating innovative solutions to satisfy the needs of shared customers, driving the development of new integrated functions and experiences. Plans have been drawn up to commence commercialization in the second quarter of this year with the solution being unveiled at the Mobile World Congress 2012 in Barcelona. Dr. WP Hong, Executive Vice President at Samsung Mobile said: "With a passion for innovation and a commitment to drive the advancement of the mobile and vehicle industry, Samsung looks forward to the shared success of this collaboration. Together, Samsung and Toyota are opening the door to the Smarter Car Era." To learn more about Samsung Car Mode Application, visit the Samsung stand in Hall 8 at the Mobile World Congress 2012. |
| Panasonic names Kazuhiro Tsuga as new president after old one loses $9 billion Posted: 27 Feb 2012 11:54 PM PST  In the aftermath of company losses that passed $9 billion, Panasonic has announced that Fumio Ohtsubo is to step down as company president. He'll be replaced by current senior executive Kazuhiro Tsuga in an executive reshuffle that'll take place in June, when Ohtsubo will step up to become chairman of the board, replacing Kunio Nakamura who is taking an "advisory role." Tsuga was formerly an exec. at Matsushita (before it was renamed... Panasonic. Confusing, we know), where he spent a lot of time thumbing his nose at HD DVD and promising that Blu-Ray would win the last format war -- so we know his instincts are at least halfway decent. |
| LG Optimus L-style series hands-on Posted: 27 Feb 2012 11:14 PM PST  The Optimus L7 caught our eye immediately. LG's high-to-mid-level phone arrives with Ice Cream Sandwich, however it only houses a 1GHz processor and five-megapixel camera sensor. It's a light slab of hardware and like the Prada phone, there's some solid finishing on the sliding microUSB port and the same metallic finish running around the edges. The backing has vertical ridging along it to help grip it and the company has already prepped both a black and white version. Despite the lower specifications, Ice Cream Sandwich worked perfectly well; multitasking was a bit temperamental, but it otherwise coped with internet browsing and other tasks perfectly well. The L5 has a few differences, with a smaller 4-inch display, 800MHz processor and NFC all built-in. The backing has a translucent finish to it, but the screen has some pretty miserable viewing angles. The Optimus L3 comes in at the bottom of LG's 2012 collection, with a 3.2-inch 320x240 touchscreen and an underwhelming 3-megapixel camera on the back of a solid -- but tubby -- 12mm profile. Unfortunately, it looks like the 600MHz processor looks like it wasn't able to step up to the Android 4.0 game, instead taking a step back into 2011 with the latest version of Gingerbread. However, we assume some "competitive" pricing will add some extra appeal. The three handsets will be coaxing out low-price smartphone hunters later this year. |
| Canon EOS-1D X ship date slips into April, takes with it our hearts Posted: 27 Feb 2012 11:08 PM PST  |
| Midi Fighter 3D has arcade buttons and motion control, still can't throw fireballs Posted: 27 Feb 2012 10:19 PM PST  |
| HBO Go coming to Xbox 360 on April 1st Posted: 27 Feb 2012 09:27 PM PST  |
| IBM: We're on the cusp of the Quantum Computing revolution (video) Posted: 27 Feb 2012 08:00 PM PST  The system has serious ramifications in the fields of science, technology, medicine and security -- the latter because it can try every conceivable password to access a system within a second. However, for now, this computer remains science fiction rather than science fact. In the same way that you understand the Copenhagen interpretation of Quantum Physics, qubits are negatively affected by both observation and interaction -- the vulnerability of these materials to interference from heat, radiation and defective materials means you can't trust the answers it provides, called quantum decoherence. Being able to produce a qubit of sufficient "integrity" that you can trust the results is what has eluded scientists for decades. In a few short hours, however, IBM is going to present three brand-new records to the American Physical Society that could change all of that. Using its R&D know-how, and some of the world's most powerful freezers, it's developed methods of easily building, maintaining and even increasing the integrity of a qubit to the point that it's now very close to the minimum standard required by the research community. David DiVincenzo, professor at the Institute of Quantum Information thinks that the company is "nearly at the tipping point." Taking technology developed at Yale, its three dimensional superconducting qubit was able to extend the duration of each qubit's quantum state to up to 100 microseconds: a short time for you and me, but a lifetime for a computer that theoretically knows everything. The papers, entitled "Superconducting qubit in waveguide cavity with coherence time approaching 0.1ms" and "Complete universal quantum gate set approaching fault-tolerant thresholds with superconducting qubits" will be made available after the presentation later this morning and it's hoped that scientists can now concentrate upon error correction schemes to further enhance the technology. Part of the revelation is that IBM built the qubits using traditional commercial chip fabrication technology: meaning that if the final ceiling is breached, it would be possible to mass-produce the technology very rapidly at scale. IBM Research Advances Device Performance for Quantum Computing Latest results bring device performance near the minimum requirements for implementation of a practical quantum computer. Scaling up to hundreds or thousands of quantum bits becomes a possibility. YORKTOWN HEIGHTS, NY – 28 Feb 2012: Scientists at IBM Research (NYSE: IBM)/ (#ibmresearch) have achieved major advances in quantum computing device performance that will accelerate the realization of a practical, full-scale quantum computer. For specific applications, quantum computing which leverages the underlying quantum mechanical behavior of matter has the potential to deliver computational power that is unrivaled by any supercomputer today. Using a variety of techniques in the IBM labs, scientists have established three new records for reducing the error in elementary computations and retaining the integrity of quantum mechanical properties in quantum bits (qubits) – the basic units that carry information within quantum computing. Furthermore, IBM has chosen to employ superconducting qubits which use established microfabrication techniques developed for silicon technology, providing the potential to one day scale up to and manufacture thousands or millions of qubits. IBM researchers will be presenting their latest results today at the annual American Physical Society meeting taking place February 27-March 1, 2012 in Boston, MA. The Possibilities of Quantum Computing The special properties of qubits allow a quantum computer to work on millions of computations at once, while a desktop PC can typically handle minimal computations at a time. For example, a single 250-qubit state contains more bits of information than there are particles in the universe. These properties will have wide-spread implications foremost for the field of data encryption where quantum computers could factor very large numbers like those used to decode and encode sensitive information. "The quantum computing work we are doing shows it is no longer just a brute force physics experiment. It's time to start creating systems based on this science that will take computing to a whole new level," says IBM scientist Matthias Steffen, manager of the IBM Research team that's focused on developing quantum computing systems to a point where it can be applied to real-world problems. Numerous other applications could include searching databases of unstructured information, performing a range of optimization tasks and solving new interesting mathematical problems. How Quantum Computing Works The most basic piece of information that a classical computer understands is a bit. Much like a light that can be switched on or off, a bit can have only one of two values: "1" or "0". For qubits, they can hold a value of "1" or "0" as well as both values at the same time. Described as superposition, this is what allows quantum computers to perform millions of calculations at once. One of the great challenges for scientists seeking to harness the power of quantum computing is controlling or removing quantum decoherence – the creation of errors in calculations caused by interference from factors such as heat, electromagnetic radiation, and materials defects. To deal with this problem, scientists have been experimenting for years to discover ways of reducing the number of errors and of lengthening the time periods over which the qubits retain their quantum mechanical properties. When this time is sufficiently long, error correction schemes become effective making it possible to perform long and complex calculations. There are many viable systems that can potentially lead to a functional quantum computer. IBM is focusing on using superconducting qubits that will allow a more facile transition to scale up and manufacturing. IBM has recently been experimenting with a unique "three dimensional" superconducting qubit (3D qubit), an approach that was initiated at Yale University. Among the results, the IBM team has used a 3D qubit [technical paper available] to extend the amount of time that the qubits retain their quantum states up to 100 microseconds. This value reaches just past the minimum threshold to enable effective error correction schemes and suggests that scientists can begin to focus on broader engineering aspects for scalability. In separate experiments, the group at IBM also demonstrated a more traditional "two-dimensional" qubit (2D qubit) device and implemented a two-qubit logic operation – a controlled-NOT (CNOT) operation [technical paper available], which is a fundamental building block of a larger quantum computing system. Their operation showed a 95 percent success rate, enabled in part due to the long coherence time of nearly 10 microseconds. These numbers are on the cusp of effective error correction schemes and greatly facilitate future multi-qubit experiments. IBM and Quantum Computing Leadership The implementation of a practical quantum computer poses tremendous scientific and technological challenges, but all results taken together paint a very favorable picture for realizing the first practical quantum computer in the not too distant future. Core device technology and performance metrics at IBM have undergone a series of amazing advancements by a factor of 100 to 1,000 times since the middle of 2009, culminating in the recent results that are very close to the minimum requirements for a full-scale quantum computing system as determined by the world-wide research community. In these advances, IBM stresses the importance and value of the ongoing exchange of information and learning with the quantum computing research community as well as direct university and industrial collaborations. "The superconducting qubit research led by the IBM team has been progressing in a much focused way on the road to a reliable, scalable quantum computer. The device performance that they have now reported brings them nearly to the tipping point; we can now see the building blocks that will be used to prove that error correction can be effective, and that reliable logical qubits can be realized," observes David DiVincenzo, professor at the Institute of Quantum Information, Forschungszentrum Juelich. Based on this progress, optimism about superconducting qubits and the possibilities for a future quantum computer are rapidly growing. While most of the work in the field to date has focused on improvements in device performance, efforts in the community now must now include systems integration aspects, such as assessing the classical information processing demands for error correction, I/O issues, feasibility, and costs with scaling. IBM envisions a practical quantum computing system as including a classical system intimately connected to the quantum computing hardware. Expertise in communications and packaging technology will be essential at and beyond the level presently practiced in the development of today's most sophisticated digital computers. |
| Sony announces quartet of Cyber-shot cams, boasts of slim profiles and tough skin Posted: 27 Feb 2012 07:52 PM PST  Sony Introduces Versatile New Lineup of Cyber-shot Cameras New Cameras Feature Ultra-thin Body and Lens Designs, Rugged Capabilities SAN DIEGO, Feb. 27, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- With the ability to deliver impressive, high-resolution images while underwater, outside or inside, during both day and night, Sony's slim new line of Cyber-shots represent the ultimate in versatility for the compact camera space. Four new models announced today include the DSC-WX150, DSC-W690, DSC-TX66 and DSC-TX20 models. The DSC-WX150 and DSC-W690 models are the world's thinnest 10x optical zoom cameras – slimmer than any other 10x compact cameras currently offered in market (measured at slimmest part excluding lens). This exceptionally thin design is largely attributed to the new "Advanced Aspherical" lens element, which allows the lens unit to be drastically smaller than those in previous 10x zoom Cyber-shots while still producing very highly detailed, accurate images. The new TX66 camera features an ultra-slim, front-sliding design and measures about 12.2 mm (excluding lens cover), which is about the thickness of a standard AA size battery. The similarly thin TX20 camera is Sony's most "rugged" compact camera offering -- waterproof (up to 5m or 16ft), dustproof, shockproof (up to 1.5m or 5 ft) and freezeproof (up to 14 degrees F). Each of the new WX150 ,TX66 and TX20 cameras features a high-resolution "Exmor R" CMOS sensor and advanced BIONZ® image processor, enhancing low-light performance, Auto Focus speeds, image stabilization and opening up various multi-shot capabilities including 10 fps burst mode, "Background Defocus" mode, 3D still image shooting and more. These models also have "Dual Record" functionality for capturing high-resolution still images while shooting video, and "Clear Image Zoom" digital zoom technology, which boosts optical zoom to 2x virtual capability (i.e. 5x optical zoom to 10x virtual zoom) at full camera resolution. Each of the new models can shoot full HD video (at various resolutions) and offer "Picture Effect" options for creative photography. Product Specs, Pricing and Availability The four new Cyber-shot cameras will be available at Sony retail stores and online (www.store.sony.com) as well as other authorized retailers throughout the Sony dealer network. Availability and detailed specs are below: The DSC-WX150 camera will be available in silver, black, red and blue this May for approximately $250. Features include: Effective 18.2 MP "Exmor R" CMOS sensor Lightning-fast AF speed of approximately 0.13 second in daylight, 0.20 seconds in low-light (speeds may vary based on shooting conditions) 3.0-inch 460k dot LCD screen 10x wide-angle optical zoom lens (25-250mm in 35mm format) with 20x digital "Clear Image Zoom" at full resolution; includes newly developed "AA" lens element "Extra High Sensitivity" technology enhances low-light shooting capabilities Captures 13 MP equivalent still images while shooting video via "Dual-Record" Full HD Movie Shooting capability (1920x1080/60i) Enhanced Optical SteadyShot reduces hand shake during still and video shooting 9 total "Picture Effect" options, allowing for creative, custom styled photographs The DSC-W690 camera will be available in silver, black, red and blue this May for approximately $180. Features include: Effective 16.1 MP CCD sensor 3.0-inch 230k dot LCD touch screen 10x wide-angle optical zoom lens (25-250mm in 35mm format) including newly developed "AA" lens element 720p HD Movie Shooting capability Enhanced Optical SteadyShot reduces hand shake during video shooting 4 total "Picture Effect" options, allowing for creative, custom styled photographs The DSC-TX66 camera will be available in silver, gold, red, white, purple and pink this March for about $350 Effective 18.2 MP "Exmor R" CMOS sensor Ultra-thin design measuring at 12.2 mm thick (excluding lens cover) Lightning-fast AF speed of approximately 0.13 second in daylight, 0.25 seconds in low-light (speeds may vary based on shooting conditions) 5x wide-angle optical zoom lens (26-130mm in 35mm format) with 10x digital "Clear Image Zoom" at full resolution "Extra High Sensitivity" technology enhances low-light shooting capabilities 3.3-inch Xtra Fine™ OLED touch-screen Captures 13 MP equivalent still images while shooting video via "Dual-Record" Full HD Movie Shooting capability (1920x1080/60i) Enhanced Optical SteadyShot reduces hand shake during still and video shooting "Photo Creativity" interface plus 9 "Picture Effect" options for creating unique, custom-styled photos and video The DSC-TX20 camera will be available in orange, green, black, blue and pink this May for about $330. Features include: 16.2 MP "Exmor R" CMOS sensor 4x wide-angle optical zoom lens (25-100mm in 35mm format) with 8x digital "Clear Image" Zoom at full resolution Waterproof (up to 5m,16 feet), dustproof, shockproof (up to 1.5m or 5ft) and freeze-proof (up to 14 degrees F) "3.0-inch Xtra Fine LCD touch-screen with 921k dot resolution Captures 12 MP equivalent still images while shooting video via "Dual Record" Optical SteadyShot Active Mode reduces hand shake during video shooting 7 "Picture Effect" options for creating unique, custom-styles photos and video |
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