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Friday, March 2, 2012

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New Intel Ivy Bridge i5 details leaked in Intel sales book

Posted: 02 Mar 2012 10:12 AM PST

Word on the street is Ivy Bridge has been delayed, but that doesn't mean you have to wait till June to get the low down on some of the shiny new silicon Intel has in store for you. Chipzilla posted a sales book, presumably on accident since it's been pulled, with details about upcoming i5 and i7 refreshes. The only page we were able to find was loaded with Core i5s, including third generation parts like the 3.4GHz 3570K which packs the new HD4000 and, most likely, an unlocked multiplier. Most of the rest of the lineup, save the 3475S, is rocking Intel's HD2500 IGP, while the lone dual-core part is the 3470T, which is also the only chip to sport Hyper-Threading and ship with only 3MB of cache. Now, as far as when you can buy these processors or how much they'll cost, we're still in dark, but at least we've got a better idea of what we'll be shopping for. Head on after the break for a slightly better look at the new parts.

3rd Gen Core i5 lineup

HTC unveils new APIs, opens Beats, lockscreen and more to devs

Posted: 02 Mar 2012 09:44 AM PST

APIs, as essential as they are to our modern computing experience, aren't the sort of thing we usually get too excited about. HTC is walking away from Mobile World Congress having announced four new application interfaces though, that have piqued our interest. First up, and the most spotlight hogging of the bunch, is Beats. Soon enough any music app, game or what-have-you will be able to take advantage of the bass-boosting software equalizer. Perhaps more interesting, if a little less headline grabbing, is the ability to integrate your app with the Sense lockscreen -- a feature we'd love to see come to stock Android. Now lockscreen widgets wont be limited to Google's own music app... so long as you've got an HTC. The manufacturer is also prepping a MediaLink API for streaming content over wireless HDMI. Now the One X is looking even better than before, huh?

Huawei's LTE mobile WiFi gear coming to Europe and Asia Pacific by July, for all the use it is

Posted: 02 Mar 2012 09:12 AM PST

Huawei's capping off the good week it had at MWC by announcing that its 4G Wireless Network Card (E3276) and Mobile WiFi (E5776) will arrive in Europe and Asia Pacific by July 2012. Of course, only Germany, Poland, Norway, Sweden, Finland in Europe and Japan in Asia have fully working LTE networks. We're not so sure if the company's also committing to a launch window for its similarly enabled phones but it wouldn't be unreasonable to hope that we'll see those turn up around the same time. If you want more details, you should know where to go by now.
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Huawei LTE Mobile Products Available in Europe and Asia by July

Huawei showcases its strong suite of LTE products at Mobile World Congress 2012

Barcelona, February 29, 2012: Huawei, a leading global information and communications technology (ICT) solutions provider, today announced its plan to introduce its full range of LTE mobile products, including its LTE wireless network card (E3276) and LTE mobile WiFi (E5776) into European markets and Asia Pacific by July 2012. The E3276 and E5776 support LTE Cat 4 and boast speeds that are up to 50% faster than LTE mobile broadband devices in the market, providing up to 150Mbps downstream speed in LTE FDD format, and 112Mbps downstream speed in LTE TDD format.

"As a pioneer in providing end-to-end integrated LTE solutions, Huawei is keen to promote LTE development globally, and providing a better Internet experience to consumers worldwide," said Shao Yang, CMO of Huawei Device. "In 2012, Huawei expands our LTE mobiles series to European markets and Asia Pacific in an effort to consolidate our leadership position in the LTE market."

At the Mobile World Congress 2012, Huawei is showcasing its outstanding suite of LTE products including its latest LTE smartphone, the Ascend D lte, which features a dual-core 1.5G processor and a 4.5 inch HD touchscreen, enabling users to take advantage of the unprecedented data transfer speed that LTE offers.

The Ascend D lte is accompanied by the Ascend P1 lte which was launched at CES 2012, the world's first LTE TDD multi-mode Mobile WiFi Huawei E589, LTE TDD wireless broadband router Huawei B593 as well as cradle AF23 and AF22.

The Huawei B593 supports LTD TDD and FDD and reaches a maximum download speed of 100 Mbps. Additionally, it can be connected to a maximum of 32 sets of WiFi facilities or desktop via its Ethernet port. Two-way VOIP recording is also available.

The AF23 and AF22 cradle provide wide-area Ethernet connection via their Ethernet port for the E3276 and E5776 respectively. When the AF23 is attached to the E3276, it converts the E3276 to a Mobile WiFi, providing WiFi offload and WiFi repeater functions. Similarly, the AF22 base station acts as a battery charger to the E5776's and enhances wireless cellular network signal through antenna connectors on its side.

Huawei's mobile broadband LTE devices offer speeds and quality comparable to that of fixed-line broadband. Operators will benefit from its flexibility at low costs and excellent customer user experience. The technology has been well received by operators and consumers in Europe, Middle East and North America.

SugarSync for Android updated, adds enhanced sharing and on-the-go file management

Posted: 02 Mar 2012 08:43 AM PST

Not long after handing its Android application a video-friendly refresh, SugarSync's back with more updated goodies. Now, the sweet Dropbox adversary is stuffing version 3.5.1 with some productivity and social-driven bits. The rejuvenated app, which won't ask anything of your wallet, is boosting its sharing features by allowing you to handout contacts, files and folders via Zuck's social network and that famed 140-character box. Facebook and Twitter's integration doesn't stop there, SugarSync's letting anyone grab 500MB of extra storage at no cost by referring other humans through the aforementioned sites. Another new feature is the on-the-fly file management, which essentially allows you to copy, move and delete any of your docs while you're on the go. Eager to give it a try? It's up for grabs at the source link below or you can get it directly from your Big G-approved device.
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SugarSync Introduces New Android App for Even Greater Productivity on the Go

SugarSync Updates Android App with Facebook and Twitter Sharing, Enhanced File/Folder Management, and Ability to Earn Even More Free Space Within the App

SAN MATEO, CALIF., March 1, 2012 – SugarSync, a free service that actively syncs your folders and files across all your computers and mobile devices, today announced it has updated its award-winning SugarSync for Android app. The new app gives you now even more control over your files while on the go, including the ability to share files and entire folders via social channels like Facebook, Twitter, and SMS.

Increasing Productivity, Sharing, and Free Space

SugarSync's Cloud service already enables users of all mobile devices to access, sync and share all of their files and folders – not just one folder – while on the go. And SugarSync's Android app was the first to provide automatic syncing of your photos, folders and videos from your mobile device to your computer via SugarSync's AutoSync technology almost a year ago.

Today, SugarSync is announcing that it has added several new features that enable you to be as productive on your mobile device as you are on your computer, including:

· Enhanced Sharing – SugarSync has always enabled you to share with your contacts, and now you can also share files or entire folders from the app directly with your friends and family on services like Facebook and Twitter. You can now easily share that large folder of videos from your vacation to all your Facebook friends and Twitter followers. Or send those photos to your email contacts. You can even SMS files or entire folders to anyone in your address book. Sharing what you want, how you want, where you want has never been easier.

· Managing Files and Folders on the Go – You're used to being able to organize and manage your files and folders on your computer. Why not on the go? SugarSync for Android now lets you copy, move and even delete files or folders, making the mobile app experience more similar to that of the desktop or Web client experience. It's like having a remote control for your computers via the Cloud.

· Easily Earn More Free Storage – On SugarSync.com, we've always made it easy to get more free storage by referring friends. Today we're making it just as easy to earn free storage from the Android app. Just tap the present button on the top right section of the app's home screen and choose where to share your referral link: Facebook, Twitter, email, SMS, or more. For each friend who joins SugarSync for free, you both get 500MB of additional free storage on top of the 5GB we start you with. And for friends that use your referral link to sign up for a paid account, you both get an additional 10GB free!

"The proliferation of today's powerful smartphones and tablets is drastically increasing the demand for robust Cloud services that can enable you to be more productive while on the go," said Laura Yecies, CEO of SugarSync. "SugarSync continues to lead the way in mobile Cloud innovation, and with these enhancements to our SugarSync for Android app, we are making it easier to accomplish the tasks you frequently do on your computer – like sharing, managing and controlling your files and folders – all from your Android device."

Availability & Pricing

The free SugarSync for Android app is available now and can be downloaded from SugarSync's site or from the Android Market. SugarSync offers a free 5GB version of the full service, with larger plans ranging from 30 GB to 1TB and starting at just $4.99/month. To learn more, please visit our pricing plan page.

The Engadget Interview: RIM VP of Enterprise Alan Panezic at MWC 2012 (video)

Posted: 02 Mar 2012 08:12 AM PST

This week at Mobile World Congress we had the opportunity to talk with Alan Panezic, VP of Enterprise at RIM about what the company is doing to keep existing business customers (and possibly even lure new CIOs) in the warm and secure embrace of its enterprise services while still giving users personal freedom to fully enjoy their devices. RIM's secret weapon? BlackBerry Balance on the PlayBook running OS 2.0 (of course) and BlackBerry Mobile Fusion on the server side. Take look at our video and remember -- that corporate PlayBook of yours may still lack BBM integration but IT professionals are people too, so be gentle with them!

Chrysler Uconnect drops Autonet Mobile for Sprint

Posted: 02 Mar 2012 07:47 AM PST

Chrysler's in-car Uconnect EV-Do system allows you to stay connected over WiFi on the go, with your vehicle acting as a 150-foot wireless hotspot around your whip. It's been announced (in what is quite possibly the world's shortest ever press release) that Sprint is replacing Autonet Mobile as the infrastructure partner behind the service. Now you'll be able to tweet while doing 90 on the interstate thanks to the company's Emerging Solutions Group which will have direct responsibility for the partnership.

Update: That terse release may not have told the whole story, we're talking to Autonet now to find out more.
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Sprint Becomes Wireless Engine in Chrysler Group's Uconnect™ Program

OVERLAND PARK, Kan.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sprint (NYSE: S) today announced an agreement to act as a strategic wireless partner for Chrysler Group LLC's Uconnect™ Program.

"Sprint is delighted to be chosen for this unique alliance as we develop a robust wireless engine for Chrysler Group's Uconnect program."

"Chrysler Group and Sprint share a mutual commitment to the delivery of advanced, next-generation connected vehicle and telematics services," said Matt Carter, president – Wholesale and Emerging Solutions, Sprint. "Sprint is delighted to be chosen for this unique alliance as we develop a robust wireless engine for Chrysler Group's Uconnect program."

Insert Coin: UNRULY Headcase, wants to make your GoPro less 'so so'

Posted: 02 Mar 2012 07:19 AM 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.


We've had a bunch of fun testing out GoPro cameras, but one thing that has always been a source of frustration is the fiddly mount system. A problem that's seemingly inspired a Kickstarter project called Headcase Pro. Effectively it's a lightweight aluminum case aimed at making the GoPro infinitely more mountable. Unlike the bog-standard plastic housing, the Headcase Pro has a self-tightening door that should prevent it from flying open on impact, along with gunk-repelling rubber sealed buttons. Most pleasing to frustrated directors will be the nine threaded mount holes, letting you attach it to your existing tripods and peripherals. Also, the Headcase Pro is large enough to work with the BacPac and battery packs without the need to change doors, and a protective lens ring is a final sweetener. For those of us with more amateur needs, there is the Headgear model, which fits around the standard GoPro case, but still bumps your mount choices and protects your lens. Think this has got legs? Or simply want one for yourself? Then $328 will get you one of the first run, and push the project along to its $25,000 goal. Still not sure? Then focus on the video after the break for a demo.
UNRULY Headcase Pro / Headgear

Neonode zForce uses infrared LEDs to measure pressure, replace capacitive touch (hands-on)

Posted: 02 Mar 2012 06:47 AM PST

Smartphone fanatics may recall the Neonode N2 -- a rather unique recall-plagued feature phone that ultimately resulted in the demise of the company's handset arm. Neonode is still a major player in the portable device market, but may be more familiar to OEMs that employ its infrared LED-based touch technology, rather than consumers that utilize it in e-readers, with tablets soon joining the mix. zForce offers several advantages over its capacitive-based counterparts -- it's incredibly responsive and accurate, and can now measure the intensity (or pressure) of your touch, and not just position. There's also a built-in proximity sensor that can be added to any device for a few pennies, which is considerably less than traditional offerings. However, because Neonode uses an array of infrared LEDs and photodiodes, a raised bezel is required to accommodate the additional hardware, making it impossible to integrate a flush display.

We went hands-on with an updated smartphone-sized embed of the company's zForce technology that not only works with any object, such as a finger, pen or a paint brush, but also recognizes both the pressure of your implement and also its size, so a larger paint brush has broader strokes than a smaller one, for example. Because the device can operate at 500Hz all the way up to 1,000Hz (refreshing 1,000 times per second), it appears to be incredibly responsive, with an almost unnoticeable delay between the time you touch the pad and when your input is displayed on the screen. A second demo unit, called Stargate, offers dual-layer touch with support for 3D control -- you can literally reach inside the unit to manipulate an object. There's no word on when this latest tech will make its way into devices, or how exactly we'll see it used, but you really need to see it in action to get a feel for how it works -- jump past the break for our video hands-on.
Neonode zForce hands-on

KIRF MacBook Air is the prettiest netbook we've seen today

Posted: 02 Mar 2012 06:12 AM PST

This is the Netbook Navigator NAV13X Windows 7 Ultrabook and if we're honest, we think it's a very attractive looking device. That said, we're not so sure it's going to be on sale for too long, which is a genuine shame. Despite being called an Ultrabook, it's not an Intel-sanctioned device, which won't go down well with Santa Clara's lawyers. Secondly, it's actually a netbook running a 1.86GHz dual-core Atom CPU with 2GB of RAM and a 32GB SSD, with build to-order options running to larger memory and storage. Thirdly, we're fairly sure we've seen industrial design like this before, and given the litigious nature of the company involved, we expect a metric ton of cease-and-desist notices to be delivered to Navigator's New Jersey HQ before the weekend's over. However, if it can survive the barrage of paperwork from two of the industry's biggest companies, it'll arrive very soon, setting you back a slight $500 sans OS or $600 with Windows 7 Home Premium.

Option announces new 4G chipset compatible with Windows 8

Posted: 02 Mar 2012 05:47 AM PST

Belgian wireless outfit Option has produced a 4G modem that takes up the same space inside a netbook or tablet as the company's previous 3G-enabled model. The GTM801 is based around Qualcomm's universal-standard Gobi MDM9215 and, even better, is already designed to support Windows 8 -- so we can at least hope that the first or second wave of tablets for Microsoft's new OS will be able to access 4G natively, for when we need to work Facebook on the go. Given that all of Option's tech is Gobi-based, you'll also have backwards compatibility with pretty much every standard ever invented, which is good if you don't live in the middle of an LTE zone.
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Option announces LGA MODULE FOR 4G LTE

Option's GTM801/GTM809 LGA module is footprint compatible with the GTM601/GTM609 LGA module, delivering a flexible 3G/4G LTE platform for embedded connectivity

Leuven, Belgium – February 29, 2012 – Option (EURONEXT: OPTI; OTC: OPNVY), a global leader in wireless connectivity, security and experience, today announces its new 4G LTE module, the GTM801 which is footprint compatible with the 3G LGA module, the GTM601. Option's embedded solutions provide flexible alternatives: manufacturers can design tablets or ultra-portable notebooks using the same layout to offer either 3G with the GTM601 or 4G LTE with the GTM801 to meet diverse market needs.

Both modules are designed to support Windows 8 and the USB-IF Mobile Broadband Interface (MBIM) specification. The GTM801 is designed around Qualcomm's Gobi TM 4G LTE chipset, the MDM9215TM. Option has a long-standing relationship with Qualcomm and uses Gobi chipsets across its entire module portfolio.

"Option continues to provide leadership by delivering a connectivity portfolio that is flexible, scalable and footprint compatible," said Bernard Schaballie, General Manager Embedded Solutions at Option. "Option connectivity solutions are able to support next generation operating systems and networks by using cutting edge chipset technology from Qualcomm."

"We are enthusiastic to see Option providing innovative, thin solutions for mobile devices ," said Fram Akiki, senior director, product management at Qualcomm. "Our Qualcomm Gobi 3G and 4G LTE chipsets enable connectivity for a broad range of devices."

Option is showcasing its embedded solutions at Embedded World in Nuremberg on stand 4A512.

Distro Issue 30 brings you 'The Best of Mobile World Congress 2012'

Posted: 02 Mar 2012 05:15 AM PST

While a handful of Engadget editors braved the show floor in Barcelona, we here at Distro HQ were busy trying to keep pace with the insane amount of news coming out of Mobile World Congress 2012. Fittingly, issue 30 of our fine weekly is packed to the rafters with the best and latest in mobile technology. Also in this issue, Tim Stevens gives us his detailed impressions of Microsoft's Windows 8 consumer preview; we pick apart the long-awaited refresh of BlackBerry PlayBook OS; and Dante Cesa dives into Razer's first gaming laptop, the Blade. Plus, we grill Mobile Burn founder Michael Oryl for the Distro Q&A; Donald Melanson offers his latest reading recommendations; we get real for IRL; and Box Brown reveals a handful of Siri Easter eggs for Last Word.

Distro Issue 30 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

LG confirms Optimus L3 will introduce L-Style to Europe this month

Posted: 02 Mar 2012 04:50 AM PST

Fresh from its official debut in the warm Catalan sun, LG has confirmed that the Optimus L3 will be hitting European shelves this month, making it the first L-style phone out of the gate. After Europe, the dual-core 800MHz slice of Gingerbread will leave a crumbly trail eastwards, landing in Russia, then Asia. The official PR stops short of telling us if it'll go full-circle and arrive on US shores, simply teasing budget phone-seeking Americans with "followed by other markets around the world."
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FIRST OF LG'S NEW L-STYLE SMARTPHONES COMING TO EUROPEAN CUSTOMERS THIS MONTH
All-in-One Compact Smartphone with Superior Style

SEOUL, Mar. 2, 2012 – The LG Optimus L3, a compact smartphone with timeless style first introduced at Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2012 in Barcelona earlier this week, will get its European debut starting March. The Optimus L3 is the first model from the L-Style design series starting this year.

LG Optimus L3 offers users an authentic experience compromising the style and practical technologies. L-Style's elements, such as Modern Square Style and Harmonized Design Contrast with metallic accents, are revealed on the Optimus L3, emphasizing the premium design heritage born from LG's design leadership.

Its 3.2-inch display provides the ideal viewing experience on a compact smartphone. As an "on-the-go" socializing device, the Optimus L3 allows for longer talk times and ensures that users always stay connected to their favorite social network with its 1,500mAh battery. Customers even have a variety of options when choosing the color for their device - white, black, hot pink or blue.

"We've always believed in the need to offer a variety of smartphone options and many people simply don't want to pay for a lot of extra bells and whistles." said Dr. Jong-seok Park, President and CEO of LG Mobile Communications Company. "We think the Optimus L3 offers all of basic smartphone-related benefits but in a more premium package that hasn't been seen before on a smartphone in this category."

After its European launch, the LG Optimus L3 will make its appearance in Russia and Asia, followed by other markets around the world.

Key Specifications:
o Chipset: 800MHz Dual-Core Processor
o Memory: 150MB (Internal), 2GB (RAM)
o Display: 3.2-inch QGVA
o Camera: 3.0 MP
o OS: Android 2.3 Gingerbread
o Battery: 1,500mAh
o Size: 102.6 x 61.6 x 11.85 (mm)

Unofficial VLC beta hits Android, no video format is safe

Posted: 02 Mar 2012 04:21 AM PST

VLC is the Swiss Army knife (nope, not you Perian) of media players and it has never baulked at any of the increasingly weird and wonderful formats we've thrown at it -- which is good because now it's available on Android. The unsupported, unofficial beta by user adridu59 is tailored to run on selected Gingerbread and Ice Cream Sandwich handsets. It's available to grab from the source link, with the caveat that as an unofficial build, it'll require a little bit of tinkering at your end

Look the business with PlanOn's super-slim receipt scanner

Posted: 02 Mar 2012 03:59 AM PST

PlanOn SlimScan SS100Receipts. You request them every time you make a claimable purchase. Then you put them in your pocket, the washing machine, the dryer, an old envelope, until they've been everywhere except where they need to go. Sure, you can use a smartphone app, but wouldn't you be so much more diligent if you had a $140 dedicated portable scanner like PlanOn's SlimScan SS100? It's taken a while to come to market since we went hands-on, but it's finally available with immediate effect. You swipe the credit card-sized stainless steel device over your receipts and store the images -- up to 600 of them -- on its built-in storage. Then you hook it up to your PC over wireless-schmireless USB, auto OCR the images, correct any inaccurate fields and export the data straight to your spreadsheet. Then you wash it, dry it, put it in a drawer...
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PLANON INTRODUCES SLIMSCAN – WORLD'S FIRST
CREDIT CARD-SIZED RECEIPT SCANNER

Fits in Your Wallet – Powerful High-Res Tiny Color Scanner Scans Everywhere You Go –on the Plane, Train, Office, or While Waiting

Never Lose a Receipt Again! Advanced Technology Scans Digital Images of Small, Easily Misplaced Items: Receipts, Warrantees, Business Cards, Shopping Tags, Cards, Tickets, Stubs & Handwritten Notes

MISSISSAUGA, ON, March 1, 2012 – PlanOn System Solutions Inc. www.planon.com, the world leader in scanning and printing solutions for the mobile professional, introduced today SlimScan, the world's first credit card-sized portable full color scanner that lets you scan and organize receipts and business cards on the road. A full-featured, powerful, tiny high resolution color scanner so small (dimensions: 2" x 3.1" x .12") and light that it easily fits into your wallet or credit card holder -- SlimScan goes everywhere you go for scanning as fast and easy as pulling out your wallet. With its convenient size and advanced scanning technology, SlimScan is perfect for capturing crisp clear full-color digital images of small, easily misplaced items, like receipts, business cards, handwritten notes, as well as photos, articles and other printed materials, anywhere, any time.

Features Preview Screen – Connects to Windows through USB

Crafted in classy, durable stainless steel, SlimScan features a convenient preview screen that lets you instantly view, zoom-in and pan scanned images on the fly. Its elegant compact design sets a new standard for professional-class portable scanners with unprecedented convenience and powerful scanning functionality. The only portable scanner that puts instant, one-touch scanning in the palm of your hand, SlimScan connects directly to Windows PCs through USB to quickly upload and edit scanned items.

Get Reimbursed Faster for Business Expenses - Track Expenditures

Busy business pros (especially those who travel) deal with a blizzard of receipts. With SlimScan, organizing them is a snap. Whenever you take out your wallet to pay, just take out your SlimScan and scan the receipt at the same time, or scan while you're waiting on the plane, train, or in the hotel. Creating digital images ensures that you will never lose an expense receipt on the road again. You can create folders to organize receipts by business trip, client, travel date, location, week, or month, and create reports to expedite expense reimbursements. SlimScan also helps business professionals, small business owners, and homeowners track expenditures by purchase type, expense category, month, or year to see where the money goes. SlimScan is also ideal for creating and managing digital copies of receipts and purchase records for returns, warrantees and insurance purposes. It makes it easy to return purchases without the hassle of searching for lost receipts. And unlike paper originals that can be easily lost, SlimScan's copies can be digitally stored for re-printing whenever you need them.

Receipt Management System (RMS) Software Included - Import Business Cards into Outlook, Word, Excel, & Databases

With PlanOn's included powerful, yet straightforward Receipt Management System (RMS) software, you can easily scan, edit and organize receipts, import them to a computer for viewing, transfer them into an expense database, and create Excel reports which can be easily emailed. RMS' business card capture module also lets you easily organize scanned business card contacts by meeting, trade show, conference, or business event. Optical Character Recognition (OCR) software can convert scanned images into editable form so you can import the contact information into Outlook, Microsoft Word or Excel spreadsheets to facilitate your follow up.

SlimScan Features:

· Receipts: Organizes receipts and business expenses. Creates digital copies of receipts for returns, which you can re-print whenever you need them.
· Business Cards: Captures important contact information from business cards, even handwritten notes.
· Imports: Imports data to Outlook, Word, Excel and compatible databases.
· RMS Software: Includes Receipt Management System (RMS) Software that easily scans, edits, organizes, and imports.
· Warrantee & Insurance Information: Keeps warrantee and insurance info safe.
· Track Expenditures: Tracks expenditures however you want: by purchase type, expense category, month, or year.
· Bargain Hunting While Shopping: Scans the labels of items at the store so you can bargain hunt at other stores or online for the best deal -- or remember favorite products or gifts that you want to buy.
· Promotional Gifts: SlimScan can be given out as promotional gifts imprinted with a company logo.
· Dimensions: 2" x 3.1" x .12".
· Resolution: 300 dpi, 24 bit color.
· Memory: Stores 600 images.

"We know that almost everyone can benefit from capturing receipt, business card and other info – but then, why doesn't everyone do it?" said Doug Verkaik, CEO of Planon. "Our research indicates it was mainly a matter of convenience. So we set out to design a scanner everyone can easily carry – that fits in their wallet!"

SlimScan is also great for sales people as a promotional item. It can be imprinted with a company logo as a gift to show appreciation to clients. A company's corporate logo and message can be placed on the unit or on the LCD screen and marketing files can be stored in SlimScan's memory for customers or staff to view.

Availability & Pricing

The SlimScan scanner with special software bundle (SS100-RMS) is available immediately from PlanOn at http://planon.com/slimscan.php and leading retailers, priced at $139.99 MSRP. For more information, see www.planon.com.

Windows 8 registry shows nine separate flavors to choose from

Posted: 02 Mar 2012 03:33 AM PST

With each subsequent release of Windows we're left bracing for what will surely be another overwhelming assortment of retail packaging options. With Windows 7 there was a dizzying 6 SKUs to choose from, and we're sorry to say that, at least for now, there are even more coming with Windows 8. As noted by windows 8 beta the registry contains the keys for all current versions of the OS and, with a quick trip to Regedit we were able to verify with the screenshot above. That boils down to the following list:
  • Windows 8 Starter
  • Windows 8 Home Basic
  • Windows 8 Home Premium
  • Windows 8 Professional
  • Windows 8 Professional Plus
  • Windows 8 Enterprise
  • Windows 8 Enterprise Eval
  • Windows 8 Ultimate
  • Windows 8 ARM edition
We will of course point out that this is from the Consumer Preview, so not necessarily a final tally, and the Enterprise Eval version is of course just for trials, but it's interesting to note the addition of Professional Plus. Office 2010 Pro Plus adds in extra integration with Sharepoint and Office Communications Server, leaving us to wonder if this flavor of Windows 8 won't offer some similar collaborative tools. And then there's just that one, lonely ARM edition, which could leave non-x86 hardware buyers out of the cross-shopping fun altogether.

[Thanks, Sagar]

BlackBerry phones could get rhythm-to-unlock, like dun-da-da-dun-dun

Posted: 02 Mar 2012 03:29 AM PST

Who needs face unlock when you could just tap out a private ditty on your smartphone? Maybe you'd risk giving away your credentials to any vaguely rhythmic phone thief within ten feet, but RIM's engineers have a patent-approved answer to that: Rather than just sensing rhythm, they reckon a phone's accelerometer could also detect the magnitude and location of each tap, which would make it harder for eavesdroppers to mimic. Just don't pick something too syncopated -- not unless you're this guy.

Kodak agrees to sell Gallery online photo service to Shutterfly for $24 million

Posted: 02 Mar 2012 02:56 AM PST

Remember that Kodak Photo Gallery online picture service that we didn't use? It appears that years of shipping packed-in with the company's cameras have netted it some 75 million users, making it an asset that now-bankrupt Kodak has agreed to sell off to Shutterfly for $23.8 million. The deal isn't quite done yet, with Shutterfly's offer entered as a stalking horse bid while other buyers may also submit proposals before the process is targeted to close in the spring. This is all a part of Kodak's pivot away from digital cameras and related products as it focuses on enterprise services and desktop printers instead. Under the current agreement, current gallery customers uncomfortable with being shipped off to Shutterfly will be able to opt out and either download their stored pics or buy them on DVDs. Otherwise, their accounts will be transferred in a way that is "preserved, and protected" -- that is to say, almost entirely unlike the way they're handled on iOS and Android.
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Kodak Enters into Agreement for Proposed Sale of Gallery Photo Services Site to Shutterfly
Shutterfly to provide stalking horse bid in court-supervised auction process

ROCHESTER, N.Y., March 01 --

Eastman Kodak Company has announced that it has entered into an agreement with Shutterfly, a leading Internet-based social expression and personal publishing service, for the proposed sale of certain assets of its KODAK Gallery on-line photo services business for $23.8 million. The terms of the agreement include the transfer of Gallery customer accounts and images in the U.S. and Canada to Shutterfly. The agreement comprises the initial, stalking horse bid in a Court-supervised auction process under Section 363 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code that will ensure the maximization of value for the assets.

"This sale is consistent with our objective of focusing Kodak on a core set of businesses in which we can most profitably leverage our technology and brand strengths, and provides a well-proven mechanism for ensuring that Kodak receives maximum value from these assets," said Pradeep Jotwani, President, Consumer Businesses and Chief Marketing Officer. "KODAK Gallery is a unique property, with more than 75 million users, and an ability to attract new members through innovative customer offerings such as its category-leading popular mobile apps."

Jotwani emphasized that under the agreement, Kodak will work closely with Shutterfly to ensure a smooth transition and that customer photos will continue to be safeguarded throughout the process.

"We appreciate the loyalty of the KODAK Gallery customers in the U.S. and Canada who have entrusted us with their photo memories. We know how much they value their photos, so we will ensure that a transition is smooth and easy for them, and that their images will be preserved and protected," Jotwani said. "We are pleased that under this stalking horse agreement with Shutterfly, our customers will continue to enjoy a rewarding on-line photo experience."

Kodak will give customers who do not want their photos transferred to Shutterfly the opportunity to opt out of the transition process. Those customers could then retrieve their images through free downloads or by purchasing DVDs from KODAK Gallery.

Jotwani noted that Kodak is focusing its consumer business on retail and destination photo solutions as well as home printing products. "Those businesses have attractive and growing sales of consumables," he said. "We are by far the leader in retail print solutions, with an installed base that has grown now to 105,000 picture kiosks, while our consumer inkjet printers offer high-quality, affordable ink."

Under the terms of the Agreement, Kodak will seek U.S. Bankruptcy Court approval of sale and auction procedures by late March. Under these proposed procedures, other potential buyers may submit alternative bids to Kodak and seek to establish the superiority of their alternative bid. Kodak is targeting completion of the sale process this spring.

#

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SAFE HARBOR PROVISIONS OF THE PRIVATE SECURITIES LITIGATION REFORM ACT OF 1995

This document includes "forward–looking statements" as that term is defined under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward–looking statements include statements concerning the Company's plans, objectives, goals, strategies, future events, future revenue or performance, capital expenditures, liquidity, financing needs, plans or business trends, and other information that is not historical information. When used in this document, the words "estimates," "expects," "anticipates," "projects," "plans," "intends," "believes," "forecasts," or future or conditional verbs, such as "will," "should," "could," or "may," and variations of such words or similar expressions are intended to identify forward–looking statements. All forward–looking statements, including, without limitation, management's examination of historical operating trends and data are based upon the Company's expectations and various assumptions. Future events or results may differ from those anticipated or expressed in these forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements include, among others, the risks and uncertainties as described in more detail in the Company's most recent annual report on Form 10–K for the year end December 31, 2011, under the headings "Business" (Item 1 of Part 1), "Risk Factors" (Item 1A of Part 1), "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Conditions and Results of Operations Liquidity and Capital Resources" (Item 7 of Part 2), "Notes to Financial Statements", and "Cautionary Statement Pursuant to Safe Harbor Provisions of the Private Litigation Reform Act of 1995", and those described in filings made by the Company with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York and in other filings the Company makes with the SEC from time to time. There may be other factors that may cause the Company's actual results to differ materially from the forward–looking statements. All forward–looking statements attributable to the Company or persons acting on its behalf apply only as of the date of this document, and are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements included in this document. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise forward–looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that arise after the date made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

Ubuntu's 'Precise Pangolin' emerges into Beta, enjoys the fresh air (video)

Posted: 02 Mar 2012 02:04 AM PST

So, it looks like Precise Pangolin has just crawled out of its Alpha hiding hole, and into the open plains of Beta testing. The Beta 1 version of Ubuntu 12.04 is available to download today, and Beta 2 is already in the crosshairs, one month from now. Being an LTS (Long Term Support) release, we knew changes weren't going to be drastic, but there are some noteworthy ones. We heard RhythmBox would be back as the default media player, and it is, and it looks like Ubuntu One synching also showed up as expected. Under the hood, the kernel goes from 3.2.0-12.21 to 3.2.0-17.27 and RC6 for Sandy Bridge systems has been enabled. The final freeze is only eight weeks away, so if you want to steer the Pangolin in the right direction, curl up on that source link for the goods.

[Thanks, Robert]

German court guns down third Samsung patent lawsuit, plus one from Apple

Posted: 02 Mar 2012 01:20 AM PST

Mannheim judge Andreas Voss is nothing if not decisive. FOSSPatents reports he's just thrown out a third Samsung v. Apple patent lawsuit relating to use of the 3G/UMTS standard. Not to be one-sided, he's also rejected the first of two Apple v. Samsung cases involving slide-to-unlock patents. Weirdly, this latter decision appears to contradict a recent ruling by a Munich court that upheld a similar slide-to-unlock claim by Apple against Motorola, but Judge Voss and his trigger-finger aren't bothered. Keep it up old boy, and maybe we can have this whole thing nailed by the summer. Oh wait, no, both sides are expected to appeal.

PS Vita homebrew loader arrives today, but only if you have this hard-to-get game (video)

Posted: 02 Mar 2012 12:50 AM PST

...And here's the catch: the game you need is Motorstorm Arctic Edge (or 'Raging Ice' in Japan), and it appears to have already been pulled from the PS Store. Besides, it was never compatible with US-registered Vitas in the first place. Nevertheless, if you happen to have bought this old PSP title for your Vita already, then this may just work. Hacker Wololo claims that later today he'll release Vita Half Byte Loader files, which will give you a "limited PSP homebrew experience" on your lovely new handheld -- and indeed we've already seen it playing Sega Genesis titles. The hack supposedly uses an exploit in this particular Motorstorm title -- but since Sony is already on VHBL's tracks, who knows if it'll really work or how long it'll last? Video evidence after the break.

[Thanks, Patrick]

Archos unveils 7-inch Child Pad slate: $129, Ice Cream Sandwich on board

Posted: 02 Mar 2012 12:06 AM PST

We know you've already added the Fisher Price DVR to the list of gadgets that may withstand the physical trauma your kid's about to put it through. But how does an ICS-equipped, 7-inch slate with parental controls sound? Dubbed Child Pad, this sticky finger-friendly tab isn't just flaunting the fact it's tasting Android's freshest treat before most of you, it's doing so with a rather modest 1GHz CPU and 1GB of RAM. In theory, that should be enough to handle your little one's multitouch doings. Speaking of, Archos is pairing up the $129 machine with access to the AppLibs Kids App Store, which offers a portfolio of over 10,000 games, books and apps. Unfortunately, there's no word on what kind of ports or internal storage the Child Pad's packing. The good news is Archos isn't saying you need to be in first grade to use it, so feel free to grab one for yourself (or your kid) when it hits shelves at the end of the month.
Show full PR text
ARCHOS Announces the Child Pad, a 7" ICS Kid-Friendly Tablet

The new Child Pad will provide kid's a safe, fun, full tablet experience at $129

Denver, CO – March 01, 2012 – ARCHOS, an award-winning innovator in consumer electronics, announced today a themed 7" Android™ tablet for children, called the Child Pad. The 7'' Child Pad features a compact light weight design, the latest Android version, 4.0 "Ice Cream Sandwich", a 1GHz processor and 1GB of RAM. The Child Pad will be available at the end of March for $129 SRP.

"As a pioneer in the portable audio and Android™ tablet market we realize the importance of providing a tablet that can offer hours of entertainment for all ages, especially kids", says Henri Crohas, Founder and CEO. "ARCHOS strives to offer great tablets with only the best of features at affordable prices and we expect this tablet to bring a smile to the faces of kids and parents' everywhere."

Key Features & Benefits
Kid friendly features of the Child Pad include access to the Kids App Store powered by AppsLib which is filtered down to 14-friendly categories and 10,000 apps including games, entertainment, communication, multimedia, books, comics, sports and more.

In addition, ARCHOS has created a kid-friendly user interface with colored icons, home screen folders with direct access to games, entertainment, learning and puzzles and the top 28 kids' apps pre-loaded including Angry Birds, Pig Rush and Flight Frenzy.

ARCHOS has also designed the Child Pad to comply with both CIPA and COPPA regulations, ensuring a safe tablet environment for kids and peace of mind for parents. The parental controls and safe web browsing is powered by Editions Profil, whose "Mobile Parental Filter" is ranked as the most efficient parental control software in worldwide benchmarks.

Availability & Price
The Child Pad will be available in stores starting the end of March with the recommended retail price of $129.

The Gathering 2012 to bring world's fastest internet to Norway, leave Swedish laundry out to dry

Posted: 01 Mar 2012 10:49 PM PST

Dreamhack's record breaking 120Gbps connection was fast enough to replace a certain household appliance, but next to what's Norway's cooking up it looks almost antiquated. The Gathering, Norway's annual week-long LAN party, plans to set a new world record for the "fastest internet access in the universe" with a 200Gbps connection. "No way we would let the Swedes keep the lead on this," says Gathering head of information Simon Eriksen Valvik, "we didn't just raise the bar a little, we moved it a story up." The connection is reportedly faster than the combined bandwidth of Thailand, and will be capable of downloading 5,120 songs a second. Don't bee too envious though, the ludicrously quick network is only temporary. Representatives from Altibox, the Norwegian network that's partnering with The Gathering to break the record, say that Norway simply doesn't have the capacity to support these kinds of speeds on a day to day basis. The gap is being filled with foreign internet capacity, piped in by Level 3. Tickets for the event are already sold out, so speed freaks desperate for the fastest internet in the universe will just have to settle for the fastest internet in the neighborhood. At least until next year.

Storage Options intros Scroll Extreme, says it's 'world's most powerful tablet under £200'

Posted: 01 Mar 2012 09:36 PM PST

Sure, CES and MWC brought along a plethora of Ice Cream Sandwich slates this year. So what sort of harm can adding one more to the pile do -- especially if it claims to be the most powerful sub-£200 Android slab on the globe. Enter Storage Option's Scroll Extreme, which sports a 9.7-inch, 1024 x 768 display, 1.2GHz Cortex A8 CPU, 1GB of RAM and 8GB of built-in storage with an option to expand via microSD. Also included in the £189.99 ($303) deal are front 0.3 and 2-megapixel rear shooters, as well as allowing you to output regular and 3D content (because it knows you'll only watch Hugo on the big screen). It's also worth mentioning that your app needs have to be fulfilled by the SlideMe store (we don't blame you if you're unfamiliar), since this beast lacks the right credentials to access the Android Market. If you're brave enough to put its claims to the test, you'll have to wait until April and live in the UK to do so. In the meantime, you can flip through the glammy press shots below to catch all of its revealing angles.
Scroll Extreme press shots
Show full PR text
Storage Options launches the world's most powerful 10" Android 4.0 tablet under £200

The new Scroll Extreme to smash the UK tablet marketplace

Storage Options, the UK-based technology brand, has launched its fastest ever tablet PC and the world's most powerful tablet under £200 to use the Android 4.0 operating system and support the output of 3D content.

Scroll Extreme b
The new Scroll Extreme has been added to the popular and award-winning Scroll tablet portfolio. It is packed with a variety of innovative new features and is the cheapest high quality tablet of its type in the world, at only £189.99, initially exclusive with eBuyer.com and available to pre-order from 1st March.

Operating on Android's latest tablet operating system 4.0, commonly known as Ice Cream Sandwich, the Scroll Extreme delivers a smooth and intuitive user experience with a superior performance powered by its 1.2GHz Cortex A8 processor.

Paul Evison, Head of Brand for Storage Options commented: "The last few months have been truly staggering for us at Storage Options. We have been blown away by the support we have received for the Scroll Excel and we were obviously delighted when it was picked as The Gadget Show's favourite budget tablet back in November. We have always known that our customers wanted quick, slick and responsive devices that are packed with features, without the burden of a premium price tag and the Scroll Extreme really does deliver exactly that. This is the first tablet we have produced on the Android 4.0 operating system and the whole user experience is vastly improved and far more intuitive than previous versions of Android."

The new slim-line and lightweight aluminium unit boasts 1.2GHz Cortex A8 processor with Mali-400 dual core graphics processing and 1GB DDR3 RAM with 8GB Memory built-in and the ability to expand through a micro SD Card up to 32GB, making it easily the most powerful and fast Scroll ever created.

Paul adds: "Our development team are really proud of this device and I think our customers are going to be blown away at the standard we have achieved for such a low price. The user experience is really impressive on its 9.7 inch screen and the fact it supports Flash helps it to provide a much richer viewing experience all round."

The Android 4.0 operating system makes popular actions more visible and lets the user navigate with simple, intuitive gestures. An entirely new typeface optimised for high-resolution screens has improved readability and brings a more polished feel to the Extreme's interface. New virtual buttons in the system bar enable the user to navigate more easily. Multitasking has also been made easier and more visual.

With a 16-bit G-sensor, enabling the ten inch screen to rotate 360 degrees, teamed with Flash support and a responsive, capacitive touch screen, the Scroll Extreme is perfect for internet browsing, social networking, reading E-Books, online TV and video services.

The Scroll Extreme also has the ability, like its smaller cousin the Scroll Excel, to output 3D content directly to a 3D TV, or monitor, by downloading 3D content to the tablet and played back on a big screen through a mini HDMI cable. It will also output 1080p HD video content in the same manner.

The Scroll Extreme will be on sale from April, exclusively available for pre-order now with eBuyer.com. For more details go to the Storage Options or eBuyer.com websites.

As with all Storage Options products, these devices are supplied with clearly-written and annotated manuals and are backed by a local-rate technical support phone line serviced by experts based in the UK.

Canon announces EOS 5D Mark III: 22.3 MP full-frame sensor, 6 fps, 102,400 max ISO, 1080/30p HD, yours for $3,500 (video)

Posted: 01 Mar 2012 08:00 PM PST

Suffice it to say, March 2012 is a notable month for Canon. Not only does it mark the 25th anniversary of the first EOS SLR, but it's also ushering in Canon's latest addition to its full-frame DSLR lineup. That gorgeous beast your eyes are feasting upon is the company's new EOS 5D Mark III. That's right folks, this isn't a replacement for the Mark II, but rather an updated variant meant to sit between the workhorse of four years and the company's soon to arrive EOS-1D X. At a glance, the shooter is nearly indistinguishable from its older sibling, although a closer inspection reveals a new name badge, improved weather- and dust-resistance and some slight tweaks to its top-mounted info display and buttons on the back.

Don't be fooled, however, as there are obviously major changes here worthy of the new moniker. Key specs include a larger 1,040,000-dot 3.2-inch rear LCD, Digic 5+ processor, 22.3-megapixel CMOS sensor, 61-Point High Density Reticular autofocus with 41 cross-types (all of which are borrowed from the 1D X), dual memory card slots (SD and CompactFlash) an extended ISO range of 50 to 102,400 (100 to 25,600, natively), OVF with 100 percent coverage (versus 98 previously), and a maximum 6 FPS burst speed. Naturally, the 5D Mark III is no slouch in the video department: it can capture h.264 footage at HD resolutions up to 1080 at 24/25/30p or 720 at 50/60p, with an effective ISO range of 100-128,000 -- and of course there's a stereo mic input for the microphone of your choice. Better yet, not only does it allow for real-time control of your audio levels during filming, but also monitoring, being the first EOS-series DSLR to come equipped with a headphone jack (!) -- something that's been sorely missing in the world of ILC cameras. We've only skimmed the surface, however, so join us past the break for further details and a quick video overview.
Canon EOS 5D Mark III


Although we didn't get to use the pre-production 5D Mark III seen here, Canon filled us in on many of intricacies, so we'll have to take its word on the matter for now. In terms of processing speed, the Digic 5+ is rated 30 percent faster than the 5 and a healthy 17 times quicker compared to the 4 found in the Mark II. Paired with its CMOS sensor, we're told that JPEG shots are roughly two stops cleaner than that of the Mark II and that video will also be noticeably smoother with less artifacting and moiré. For example (with photos), the amount of noise you'd see at 6,400 with the II only creeps up to the III at 25,600. Conversely, Canon cites the 1D X as being one stop cleaner than the Mark III, ensuring its reign as the top dog in the lineup. Of course, RAW images won't benefit from the in-camera noise reduction, but we're told that they should still be quite pleasing given the new internals.

When you're done shooting, you'll be able to use the camera's "comparative playback function" -- a quick button press allows you to view two photos (and their metadata) side by side on the LCD for on-the-fly checks of how your shots are shaping up. The Mark III also is also capable of shooting HDR images, with your choice of up to seven exposures (up to three stops over and under) to work with. Other features new to this puppy are "in-camera RAW processing, Scene Intelligent Auto mode, two forms of movie compression (ALL-I and IPB), and support for high-speed UDMA 7 Compact Flash memory cards." By the way, you'll still be restricted to 29 minutes and 59 seconds of shooting time (Canon's way of avoiding those European HD camcorder taxes as it has on many of its DSLRs).



Remember the updated button placements on back that we mentioned? Along the left side of the screen you'll notice a rate button (for starring photos quickly during a shooter and a creative photo button, while on the right there's now a dedicated Live view toggle, along with a multi-function button near the shutter button (we're told these placements could change once the final version is set in stone). You'll also find that the power switch has made its way over to top left, positioned directly behind the now pro bono locking mode dial on the top left. Notably, the inner portion of the circular control-wheel is actually touch sensitive -- since you'll be able to make adjustments to parameters such as exposure and audio levels while recording, it'll spare your tracks of any annoying clicks that could result otherwise.


Alright, we get it; all of this info is dandy, but now you want to know about availability, accessories and pricing. The EOS 5D Mark III is slated to hit shelves by the end of March, priced at $3,500 for the body-only and $4,300 as kit with an EF24-105mm f/4L IS USM zoom lens. Also available at launch, will be Canon's new $630 Speedlite 600EX-RT and its $470 Speedlite Transmitter ST-E3-RT (essentially all the tech of the former, minus the flash itself). Once April rolls around, you'll also be able to get your mitts on the $390 GP-E2 GPS receiver, $850 WFT-E7A Wireless Transmitter, and of course, the $490 BG-E11 Battery Grip (weather-resistant, with room for two batteries). On a related note, Canon also informed that Mark II will soon be get's its price reduced, but there's no word on an exact number just yet. We'll be sure to get some shooting time in with the Mark III as soon as we can, but in the meantime, check out the galleries and press release below for more of the nitty-gritty.
Canon EOS 5D Mark III (Accessories)
Canon EOS 5D Mark III and accessories (press shots)

Edgar Alvarez contributed to this report

Show full PR text
CANON U.S.A. ANNOUNCES THE HIGHLY ANTICIPATED EOS 5D MARK III DIGITAL SLR CAMERA

Featuring Improved Image Quality, a 61-Point High Density Reticular AF, Six fps High-Speed
Continuous Shooting and Enhanced HD Video Recording Features

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., March 2, 2012– On the 25th anniversary of its world-renowned EOS System, Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, is proud to announce its latest model, the new EOS 5D Mark III Digital SLR Camera. Positioned between the extremely popular EOS 5D Mark II and Canon's top-of-the-line professional EOS-1D X model, the EOS 5D Mark III delivers superb image quality, thanks to a new 22.3-megapixel full-frame Canon CMOS sensor, a high-performance DIGIC 5+ Imaging Processor, a 61-point High Density Reticular Autofocus (AF) System and six frames-per-second (fps) continuous shooting speed. Building upon the trailblazing success of the EOS 5D Mark II, the EOS 5D Mark III also incorporates enhanced video features for professionals in the fields of cinematography, television production and documentary filmmaking, including better noise reduction, longer recording times and a built-in headphone jack for audio monitoring. The EOS 5D Mark III is Canon's answer to hundreds of thousands of advanced amateurs and emerging professionals looking for a compact, high-quality camera system to help them achieve their artistic vision, whether it be through still or video imagery. The EOS 5D Mark III introduction coincides with Canon's 25th anniversary celebration of the EOS camera system. Canon's award-winning EOS system first debuted in March of 1987 with the introduction of the EOS 650 SLR camera and three EF lenses.

"We are extremely excited to announce the highly anticipated follow-up to our EOS 5D Mark II, a camera which has been called a 'game-changer' in most professional photography and videography circles. The EOS 5D Mark III will carry on that tradition, delivering better and more advanced features, helping our customers achieve excellent image quality for stills and video," stated Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Imaging Technologies and Communications Group, Canon U.S.A.

The EOS 5D Mark III inherits many features from Canon's recently announced flagship DSLR, the EOS- 1D X, including a DIGIC 5+ Imaging Processor and a high-performance 61-point High Density Reticular AF array with up to 41 cross-type points and five dual cross-type points available, depending on the lens in use.

The enhanced processing power enables fast continuous shooting of up to six fps, exceeding the speed of the EOS 5D Mark II model by more than 50 percent, and with improved weather resistance the EOS 5D Mark III is a serious option for sports and wildlife photographers.

EOS 5D Mark III Video: The Legacy Continues
The EOS 5D Mark II blazed the trail for EOS cameras and Canon to enter the professional video and cinema markets, paving the way for Canon's recent introduction of the Cinema EOS system of cameras and lenses. Now, the EOS 5D Mark III continues Canon's commitment to these new markets with new and requested features from cinematographers, television production professionals and independent filmmakers. This new model captures 1080p Full HD video at 24p (23.976), 25p, and 30p (29.97) fps; 720p HD recording at 60 (59.94) and 50 fps; and SD recording at 30 (29.97) and 25 fps, giving cinematographers and videographers more flexibility and options for video capture.

The EOS 5D Mark III includes new H.264 video compression formats to simplify and speed up post-production work: intraframe (ALL-I) compression for an editing-friendly format and interframe (IPB) compression for superior data storage efficiency, giving professionals options to help achieve their ideal workflow. Like the EOS-1D X, the 5D Mark III also includes two methods of SMPTE-compliant timecode embedding, Rec Run and Free Run, allowing video footage from multiple cameras and separate audio recordings to be synced together in post production.

The new full-frame CMOS sensor and DIGIC 5+ processor have enhanced the camera's image processing performance over the 5D Mark II, significantly reducing moiré and color artifacts in scenes with horizontal lines. The video footage produced will exhibit less moiré than seen in previous DSLR models, resulting in a significant improvement in HD video quality. Accommodating documentary filmmakers, and event videographers using EOS DSLR cameras, the 5D Mark III includes the ability to record video continuously up to 29 minutes and 59 seconds across multiple 4GB files. Long-form filmmakers will enjoy the camera's automatic file splitting in combination with the extended memory capacity offered by dual card slots.

The Canon EOS 5D Mark III also includes manual audio level control with 64 levels, adjustable both before and during movie recording. There is also an automatic audio level setting, or sound recording can be turned off entirely. A wind filter is also included. Sound can be recorded either through the internal monaural microphone or via an optional external microphone through the stereo mic input. Notably, the EOS 5D Mark III is the first EOS Digital SLR to feature a built-in headphone jack for real-time audio monitoring during video capture.

Newly Developed Canon CMOS Sensor
With its completely new 22.3-megapixel full-frame Canon CMOS image sensor, the EOS 5D Mark III becomes the highest resolution Canon Digital SLR released to date. It is eminently suitable for a wide variety of assignments including weddings and portraits, nature and wildlife, travel and landscapes as well as commercial and industrial photography. With a gapless microlens design, a new photodiode structure and improved on-chip noise reduction, the new sensor achieves higher sensitivity and lower noise levels for both RAW image data as well as in-camera JPEGs and EOS Movies compared to the 5D Mark II. The result is outstanding image quality in all shooting conditions, even low light. An eight-channel readout doubles the speed of image data throughput from the sensor to the DIGIC 5+ processor, resulting in better video image quality as well as six fps for still photos.

The low-light capability of the EOS 5D Mark III is evident in its incredible ISO range and image quality in poor lighting conditions. Adjustable from ISO 100 to 25,600 within its standard range, the new model also offers a low ISO 50 setting for studio and landscape photography and two extended ISO settings of 51,200 and 102,400, well suited for law enforcement, government or forensic field applications.

The new 5D Mark III is also equipped with Canon's EOS Integrated Cleaning System, featuring a Self Cleaning Sensor Unit with a fluorine coating that repels dust and dirt particles.

Canon-Exclusive DIGIC 5+ Imaging Processor
The EOS 5D Mark III's new DIGIC 5+ Imaging Processor is 17 times faster than the DIGIC 4.The EOS 5D Mark III uses that extra speed not only for improved image quality, but also to add no less than nine new features that do not exist on the 5D Mark II. These new features include six fps continuous shooting, HDR and Multiple Exposure modes, in-camera RAW processing, a comparative playback function, Scene Intelligent Auto mode, two forms of movie compression, and support for high-speed UDMA 7 Compact Flash memory cards.

Another extremely valuable feature enhanced by the DIGIC 5+ Imaging Processor is the EOS 5D Mark III's choice of reduced resolution M-RAW (10.5 megapixel) and S-RAW (5.5 megapixel) recording modes. These settings are particularly useful to wedding photographers for candid photos that do not require the EOS 5D Mark III's 22 megapixel full resolution, because they take up less space on the memory cards and speed up post-processing without losing the critical benefits of RAW image data, such as highlight and shadow control as well as white balance adjustment. M-RAW and S-RAW also preserve the full field of view rather than cropping the image or resorting to JPEG mode to reduce resolution.

High-Performance 61-Point High Density Reticular AF
For still photographers, Canon has included its new 61-point High Density Reticular AF System, originally introduced with the top-of-the-line EOS-1D X professional camera. A significant advancement over previous 5D-series AF systems, the new 61-Point High Density Reticular AF included in the EOS 5D Mark III is the most sophisticated SLR AF system Canon has ever released. All 61 points are manually selectable and sensitive to horizontal contrast with maximum apertures larger than or equal to f/5.6. The camera's twenty one focusing points in the central area are also standard precision cross-type and effective with maximum apertures larger than or equal to f/5.6. The center five points are ultra-high-precision diagonal cross-type points for maximum apertures larger than or equal to f/2.8. The 20 outer focusing points function as high- precision cross-type points with maximum apertures larger than or equal to f/4.0. Other innovations of the new 61-point High Density Reticular AF include expanded AF coverage area, superior focusing precision and low-light sensitivity to EV -2, and greater low-contrast subject detection capability compared to earlier EOS AF systems. (See image below for AF point configuration)

All AF functions now have their own menu tab for quick and easy access (formerly AF custom functions in previous EOS models). A new AF Configuration Tool allows for customized setting of tracking sensitivity, the acceleration and deceleration of tracking subjects, and AF point auto switching, all of which are easily accessed and adjusted via the new AF menu tab. A built-in Feature Guide advises photographers on which settings to use according to subject matter.

The EOS 5D Mark III uses the same high-performance AI Servo III AF tracking algorithm as the flagship EOS-1D X professional DSLR. This new feature works together with the 61-point High Density Reticular AF system to provide superb tracking performance that blends very well with the new camera's 6 frames-per-second high-speed continuous shooting capabilities.

Similar to the AF point selection options offered in the EOS 7D and EOS-1D X camera models, the EOS 5D Mark III offers six AF point selection modes: Spot, Single Point, Single Point with surrounding four points, Single Point with surrounding eight points, Zone selection and Automatic AF point selection.

iFCL Metering
Complementing the EOS 5D Mark III camera's 61-point AF system is Canon's 63-zone iFCL dual layer metering system. The 'FCL' stands for 'Focus, Color and Luminance,' and references the fact that the metering system not only measures color and luminance data, but also analyzes the data provided by each point of the AF system. Canon's iFCL metering keeps exposure levels stable from shot to shot, even as the light source changes. The camera's autofocus information is also used to help determine which area of the scene is of greatest importance in determining exposure.

HDR Mode
The EOS 5D Mark III camera features a built-in HDR mode, merging three images at various exposure levels into a single image, in-camera, for stunning photographs of landscapes and architecture with enhanced tonal gradation beyond the range of the naked eye. The exposure levels in the camera's HDR mode can be set to cover a range of up to ±3 stops, in a choice of five settings: Natural, Art Standard, Art Vivid, Art Bold and Art Embossed providing unique visual effects. Individual source images can be saved as separate files, and the HDR mode has an optional automatic alignment function that can be useful for hand-held shooting. The EOS 5D Mark III's standard Auto Exposure Bracketing function has been upgraded to allow for up to seven exposures per sequence, and exposure compensation can now be set for up to +/- 5EV.

Multiple Exposure Mode
The EOS 5D Mark III is the second EOS Digital SLR after the EOS-1D X to feature Multiple Exposure capabilities with the ability to combine up to nine individual images into a single composite image, with no need for post-processing in a computer. Four different compositing methods are provided for maximum creative control, including Additive, Average, Bright and Dark. Compositing results can be viewed in real time on the camera's LCD monitor, and there is a one-step Undo command that allows photographers to delete an image and try again if desired. The EOS 5D Mark III camera's Multiple Exposure mode even allows photographers to specify a previously captured RAW image as the starting point for a new Multiple Exposure composite image, or shoot continuously when photographing moving subjects.

Comparative Playback
A new feature seen for the first time in the EOS System on the 5D Mark III is Comparative Playback allowing photographers to display two images side by side on the camera's 3.2-inch LCD screen. The images can be displayed with a histogram to check exposure levels, or magnified to check for focus or facial expressions.

Durability, Reliability and Other Features
The EOS 5D Mark III features a rugged camera body with magnesium alloy body covers and a stainless steel lens mount. The new camera also has dust- and moisture-resistant design with improved gaskets and seals. Although not quite as weatherproof as an EOS-1D-series camera, the EOS 5D Mark III does feature improved weather resistance over the EOS 5D Mark II model. The EOS 5D Mark III's newly developed shutter unit has a durability rating of 150,000 exposures, and shutter release lag time has been reduced to 59 milliseconds, making the shutter button very responsive. Canon's locking mode dial is standard on the new model and a new custom function allows photographers to shut off other dials to prevent inadvertent operation.

The EOS 5D Mark III uses the same LP-E6 lithium-ion battery pack as other popular EOS cameras like the 5D Mark II, 7D and 60D. Battery life is estimated at 950 exposures at normal temperatures, an improvement of 100 exposures more than the EOS 5D Mark II. The EOS 5D Mark III body weighs approximately 33.5 oz. with a battery installed, and the dimensions are approximately 6.0 x 4.6 x 3.0 inches.

The EOS 5D Mark III incorporates Silent shooting modes, available for low-speed continuous shooting as well as single exposures. This feature is ideal when photographing in quiet environments. For better file management especially when working with multiple cameras, the new model also supports custom file names. There is also a new image rating feature that lets photographers rank their photos from 1 to 5 stars for quick editing.

The EOS 5D Mark III features a 3.2-inch Clear View II LCD screen with 1,040,000 dot resolution. This is the same screen that's used in the top-of-the-line EOS-1D X. The camera's optical viewfinder has been upgraded to approximately 100 percent coverage, and it features an Intelligent Viewfinder display with an optional grid on demand. The EOS 5D Mark III also has a built-in Dual Axis Electronic Level that can be displayed on both the LCD screen and the optical viewfinder.

The EOS 5D Mark III accepts both Compact Flash Type 1 and SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards in a dual card slot configuration. Three recording methods are supported: Record the same data to both cards, record different file sizes or types to each card, or automatically switch to the second card when the first card is full.

Accessories
The EOS 5D Mark III DSLR also has a number of new optional accessories, including the new Canon Wireless File Transmitter WFT-E7A featuring wireless LAN support for 802.11 a/b/g/n signal protocols for various network environments. The WFT-E7A connects to the camera through its USB port and includes a built-in gigabit Ethernet connection, time syncing for multiple cameras on the same network, FTP mode, EOS Utility mode, WFT Server mode and Media Server mode. With this new WFT model, professionals can synchronize clocks on multiple cameras and use the unit to support linked shooting when utilizing multiple cameras. In addition, Bluetooth-compatible equipment can be easily linked to the device as well.

The EOS 5D Mark III also has an optional Canon GPS Receiver GP-E2, which can be connected to the camera via the accessory shoe or a USB cable. With a GPS logging function built-in, the GP-E2 will log latitude, longitude, elevation, and the Universal Time Code – and allow viewing of camera movement on a PC after shooting. With its built-in compass, the GP-E2 receiver will also record camera direction when shooting, even when shooting vertically. The Canon GPS Receiver GP-E2 is compatible with the EOS-1D X and EOS 7D as well as the EOS 5D Mark III.

Battery Grip BG-E11 is an optional accessory for the EOS 5D Mark III that accepts one or two LP-E6 lithium-ion battery packs or a set of six AA-size batteries. This new grip has a multicontroller and a multifunction (M.Fn) button together a with a full set of grip controls for easy operation when shooting portraits or other vertical format photos. The BG-E11 is made from sturdy magnesium alloy and has the same degree of weather resistance as the EOS 5D Mark III.

Speedlite 600EX-RT
In addition to the EOS 5D Mark III, Canon is also announcing the first professional Speedlite on the market with a built-in wireless radio transmitter, the new Speedlite 600EX-RT. The new Canon Speedlite 600EX-RT is the flagship model in the Speedlite line, ideal for wedding portrait and photojournalism. Compatible with all EOS Digital SLRs, this new model eliminates the need for accessory radio slave units and their inherent limitations. Speedlite 600EX-RT features Master-Slave two-way transmission, letting the photographer control the Speedlite settings directly from the "Master" camera.

Radio-based Wireless E-TTL can be performed with up to 15 Speedlite 600EX-RT "slave units", used off-camera up to 98.4 feet (30m) away, and triggered by either a "Master" 600EX-RT on-camera, or the optional new Speedlite Transmitter ST-E3-RT. Used with the EOS 5D Mark III or EOS-1D X, up to five groups of flashes can be completely controlled, independently, off-camera. And, it remains fully compatible with Canon's legacy optical-based Wireless E-TTL technology, for users already committed to existing EOS Speedlites. The Speedlite features enhanced weather-resistant construction - matching that of the EOS-1D X camera body - and a more reliable electrical contact. The flash head zoom range now reaches from 20mm to 200mm.The Speedlite also allows remote shutter release of a single EOS camera, or Linked Shooting (simultaneous firing of up to 15 cameras, when one "Master" camera is fired), and includes gelatin filters and a dedicated filter holder to help photographers match ambient light.

Speedlite Transmitter ST-E3-RT
Canon is also introducing the new Speedlite Transmitter ST-E3-RT. Providing full support of Canon's new radio-based wireless flash technology, the new ST-E3-RT can control up to five groups of flashes, up to 98.4 feet (30m) from the camera. The remote shutter release capability enables photographers to either fire a single camera remotely (by pressing a button on the ST-E3-RT), or to fire up to 15 EOS cameras with Canon's Linked Shooting feature. Making it easy to control and adjust, all of the Speedlite Transmitter features are accessible through the Flash control menu of the EOS-1D X and EOS 5D Mark III cameras.

Pricing and Availability
The Canon EOS 5D Mark III Digital SLR camera is expected to be available at the end of March 2012 and will be sold in a body-only configuration at an estimated retail price of $3,499.00. The EOS 5D Mark III will also be available with the EF24-105mm f/4L IS USM zoom lens in a kit for an estimated retail price of $4,299.00. The Wireless File Transmitter WFT-E7A is scheduled to be available by the end of April 2012 at an estimated retail price of $849.99. Availability for GPS Receiver GP-E2 is expected by the end of April 2012, with an estimated retail price of $390.00.Battery Grip BG-E11 is scheduled to be available at the end of April 2012 for an estimated retail price of $490.00. The Speedlite 600EX-RT and Speedlite Transmitter ST-E3-RT are also scheduled for end of March 2012 availability at estimated retail prices of $629.99 and $470.00 respectively.

About Canon U.S.A., Inc.
Canon U.S.A., Inc., is a leading provider of consumer, business-to-business, and industrial digital imaging solutions. With $45.6 billion in global revenue, its parent company, Canon Inc. (NYSE:CAJ), ranks third overall in patent holdings in the U.S. in 2011† and is one of Fortune Magazine's World's Most Admired Companies in 2011. Canon U.S.A. is committed to the highest levels of customer satisfaction and loyalty, providing 100 percent U.S.-based consumer service and support for all of the products it distributes. Canon U.S.A. is dedicated to its Kyosei philosophy of social and environmental responsibility. To keep apprised of the latest news from Canon U.S.A., sign up for the Company's RSS news feed by visiting www.usa.canon.com/rss.

###

†Based on weekly patent counts issued by United States Patent and Trademark Office.

All referenced product names, and other marks, are trademarks of their respective owners.

Availability, prices, and specifications of all products are subject to change without notice. Actual prices are set by individual dealers
and may vary.

Netflix Watch Instantly's life after Starz includes Academy Award winners, more captions

Posted: 01 Mar 2012 07:23 PM PST

In a change of conversation that would make Don Draper proud, Netflix has picked up its blogging pen and accentuated the positive, even as hundreds of titles provided by Starz Play blinked away this week. The first bit of good news? Content that's coming instead of going includes several movies that scored trophies at last weekend's Academy Awards,including Best Picture winner The Artist, and Best Documentary winner Undefeated that will arrive "later this year, plus Best Animated Feature Rango that goes live on the service March 31st. That extends to movies in theaters too, as last weekend's top two, Act of Valor and Good Deeds, are pay-TV window exclusives for Netflix. The other positive note is that it achieved a goal of offering closed captioning on 80 percent of the hours streamed by the end of last year, and notes 90 percent of streaming is now done on devices that have been updated to support optional captions. The bad news there is that some embedded TV and Blu-ray player software might not be able to be updated for captions, and progress on adding captions for that last twenty percent of content may be slower since it's content that isn't viewed as often. So, is the red envelope company doing enough to keep you hanging around, or are you going to blow through the last few eps of Lillyhammer and pull the eject button?

BlackBerry 9320 leaks out, looks like every other Curve

Posted: 01 Mar 2012 06:01 PM PST

If you thought RIM's decline would inject a need to give its handsets a major makeover, think again. The folks from BGR have smudged their fingertips all over an India-bound BlackBerry device and, well, it shamelessly resembles just about every member of the Curve family. The purported 9320 is said to come sporting OS 7.1 at its core, along with a 2.44-inch, 320 x 240 qVGA+ display, 512MB of RAM as well as a 3.2-megapixel rear shooter. Allegedly, the BlackBerry is also rocking a BBM button on its left spine, which should come in handy to those who love some Berry-specific instant messaging. Word is the Curve 9320 will be ready to hit the streets next month for around 12,000 Rupees (or around $245). Hopefully by then you haven't spent your cash on one of those shiny new talkers we saw in Barcelona.

PS Vita Facebook app officially resurfaces, available for download (again)

Posted: 01 Mar 2012 05:20 PM PST

If you were lucky enough to snag the free Facebook app for the PS Vita last week while it was briefly available, you probably found its performance balky, at best. Shortly thereafter, Sony unsurprisingly pulled it from the PlayStation Store, noting issues stemming from Facebook's side of town. Well, good news just came in from Sony's PlayStation Twitter account -- Zuckerberg's app is "fully restored" and ready for your downloading pleasure. Facebook's relationship with Vita OS will, hopefully, be less "complicated" this time around, but let us know how it's working for you in the comments.

Sandia Labs develops self monitoring smart outlet, still needs you to plug it in

Posted: 01 Mar 2012 03:50 PM PST

The folk at Sandia Labs work on all sorts of interesting projects, and the latest thing to fan our utopian dreams is this experimental smart power outlet. Unlike most monitoring set-ups, it can measure and control electric load without being connected to a central management system. The outlet comprises four receptacles, each with voltage and current sensors and a small computer which shuttles data over an Ethernet bridge. This autonomous style of operation could lead to more intelligent power grids that self-monitor, adapt and integrate with other grids without complex infrastructure updates. Other benefits include removing large points of failure, desirable in any network, and simpler home power monitoring systems. Sandia Labs' prototype could also improve effectiveness of variable output energy sources such as wind and solar, thanks to its ability to compensate for flux in energy production -- which might come in handy.

Mobile World Congress 2012: smartphone roundup

Posted: 01 Mar 2012 03:00 PM PST

Mobile World Congress is a dignified affair held yearly in Barcelona that companies take very seriously. For example, unlike CES, there are lots and lots of suits -- after all, this is a congress. Here, some of the most unique and desirable handsets meet the eyes of press, analysts and buyers for the very first time. Accordingly, anxieties were high among company leaders as they put their best foot forward and held their breath for the first round of impressions. This year's show has been a wild ride, and we've seen many devices stretch the boundaries of our imagination. There were more than a few stunners, and as the dust settles, companies such as HTC, Nokia, LG, Huawei and Asus can all hold their heads high. Join us after the break as we reminisce the most notable smartphones from Mobile World Congress.

HTC One X


This past year, many smartphones from HTC fell just short of being ideal. The One X is proof that the company has listened to the critiques, and oh, how times have changed. This incredibly slim handset features an understated yet elegant design, yet inside it packs a Tegra 3 SoC with a quad-core 1.5GHz CPU (or a Snapdragon S4 with a dual-core 1.5GHz processor in AT&T's variant), a beautiful 4.7-inch 720p Super LCD display, 32GB of internal storage and an oh-so-desirable f/2.0, 8 megapixel camera that effortlessly captures beautiful imagery at a rapid pace. It features Ice Cream Sandwich with a Sense 4.0 overlay that's much less obtrusive than previous versions, and our interactions with the phone were buttery smooth. Put simply, the HTC One X stole the show at Mobile World Congress. So long as battery life is up to par, it'll set the pace for every smartphone to follow in its wake.

HTC One S


The HTC One S is positioned as the company's mid-range device, but in all seriousness, it could very well be an ideal smartphone for anyone that finds the One X's 4.7-inch display a bit excessive. It shares many of the same design cues as its larger sibling, and HTC's attention to detail is very apparent -- for example, when swiping across the screen, your finger will effortlessly cascade off the glass. It features a 1.5GHz dual-core Snapdragon S4, a 4.3-inch qHD Super AMOLED display, a similar 16GB of storage and the same 8MP camera that's found in the One X.

Nokia PureView 808


The PureView 808 from Nokia won the official Best of Show award here at Mobile World Congress, and while the device has undoubtedly moved the cameraphone to a new echelon, we've no doubt there was a bit of Euro bias in the vote. Put simply, the PureView 808 is a middling (and slightly clumsy) device with an amazing 41-megapixel camera. It features a 1.3GHz CPU, a 4-inch ClearBlack AMOLED display at 640 x 360, and packs quadband GSM and pentaband 3G connectivity -- all in a device that runs Symbian Belle. That said, yeah, we want one.

Huawei Ascend D Quad


Could you have ever dreamed that one of the standout smartphones of Mobile World Congress would be from Huawei? We've known for a while now that the scrappy competitor had ambitions to join the top-tier ranks of smartphone manufacturers, but it wasn't until we laid our hands on the device that we realized just how serious (and capable) the company was. Paling only in comparison to the HTC One lineup, the Huawei Ascend D Quad boasts some of the finest aesthetics that we've seen at the show. It features a 1.5GHz quad-core CPU, a 4.5-inch IPS display with 720p resolution, an 8MP camera, quadband GSM, pentaband WCDMA and, wouldn't you know it, a big bite of Ice Cream Sandwich.

LG Optimus Vu


The Optimus Vu has literally met the boundaries for how wide a smartphone can be. It's a short and broad device that's undoubtedly LG's answer to the Galaxy Note from Samsung. It features an excellent 5-inch IPS display with a rather unique 4:3 aspect ratio. While it may appear a bit clumsy, we found its width to be quite ideal for text input on the virtual keyboard. Naturally, it also features stylus input, though we still prefer the Galaxy Note in this arena. Internally, there's a 1.5GHz dual-core CPU, an 8 megapixel camera and a 2,080mAh battery. At just 8.5mm, it's an incredibly thin device, through you'll certainly want to test drive this one in your pants pocket before making the commitment.

ASUS Padfone


The ASUS Padfone is certainly one of the more unique handsets to rear its head at MWC. While we question its mass-market appeal, it has a coolness factor that can't be ignored. The phone is designed to be slipped into an accompanying 10-inch tablet, and naturally, any work done on the slate remains available once the handset is on its own. The tablet accessory is also capable of charging the Padfone and, get this, the tablet's keyboard accessory also holds a battery that'll charge both the tablet and phone. Yep, it gets complicated rather quickly, but there's also a certain amount of elegance to the setup that makes us smile. The Padfone itself features a dual-core 1.5GHz Snapdragon S4, a 4.3-inch Super AMOLED qHD display and its internal storage will vary between 16GB and 64GB.

Acer CloudMobile


It'll be interesting to see how the Acer CloudMobile stacks up against the competition once it hits the market in Q3 of this year, but for the moment, it holds the potential to be a strong contender in the mid-tier. It's not the most refined device we've ever come across, but we're incredibly fond of its pixel-dense 4.3-inch 720p display and its top-notch viewing angles. The phone includes a Snapdragon S4 SoC with a dual-core 1.5GHz CPU, along with an 8 megapixel camera that's said -- but not confirmed -- to feature zero shutter lag with continuous shot-to-shot performance.

LG Optimus 4X HD


The sequel to the Optimus 2X is here, and it asks to be called the Optimus 4X HD. As the name implies, it now packs a Tegra 3 SoC with a quad-core 1.5GHz CPU and a large 4.7-inch IPS display with 720p resolution, along with an 8 megapixel primary camera. While there's no doubt plenty of power with this handset, LG's software struck us as rather slow and cumbersome -- which is, sadly, all too reminiscent of the Optimus 2X. Nonetheless, we were rather fond of the device's build quality and its display, but further software optimization will be necessary to get this one off the ground.

Samsung Galaxy S Blaze 4G


It's no game-changer, but there's still plenty to love about the Galaxy S Blaze 4G. It takes many of the design cues of the original Galaxy S lineup and crams Galaxy S II innards into the handset. It features a 1.5GHz dual-core Snapdragon S3, a 4-inch Super AMOLED display, a 5 megapixel camera and will support T-Mobile's 42Mbps HSPA+ network. Once T-Mobile lowers the $150 price to a more palatable level, it promises to be a very strong mid-tier contender.

Nokia Lumia 610


It's difficult to stir our passions with a low-end device, and just to be clear, value-conscious consumers will likely find better options elsewhere, but Nokia has proven that it's ready to take Windows Phone down to a level that's accessible to a larger audience. That on its own makes the Lumia 610 worth a humble mention. It features an 800MHz CPU, 3.7-inch WVGA TFT display, a 5MP camera and quadband GSM / EDGE / WCDMA.

Xolo X900


What discussion of potential game-changers from Mobile World Congress would be fully complete without Intel and its new lineup of Medfield chips for smartphones? We happened to grab some time with the Xolo X900, a slab that's based on the 1.6GHz Z2560. While the device is currently destined for India, it offers some worthwhile insights to what we might expect from handsets that'll land closer to home. We found performance to be plenty responsive on the stock Gingerbread phone, but we're most intrigued by the battery life claims -- for example, the phone's relatively meager 1,460mAh cell is said to last up to 14 days on standby and offer up to eight hours of talk time, all thanks to the chip's advanced power management features. The Xolo X900 itself features a 4-inch, 1024 x 600 LCD screen, an 8 megapixel camera and is said to ship in Q2.

TV stations predictably sue Aereo over antenna-to-internet streaming plans

Posted: 01 Mar 2012 02:57 PM PST

We had to wonder if Aereo / fka Bamboom would actually be able to launch its $12 / month antenna-based live TV over the internet service before the networks tried to sue it out of existence and the answer is in: no. Ahead of Aereo's planned March 14th launch, AllThingsD reports several New York Area broadcasters including Fox and PBS have filed suit in US District Court to stop it from getting off the ground. Put simply, they don't believe copyright law allows Aereo to retransmit their OTA broadcasts on the internet without obtaining a license from them to do so, whether it uses one large antenna or an array of tiny antennas (pictured above) -- one for each subscriber -- as it says it will. Clearly Aereo disagrees, however we don't recall that argument working out so well for Zediva. Hit the source link to read the entire complaint in PDF form for yourself or just peep a press release from the National Association of Broadcasters after the break, we'll let you know if Aereo has any response.

Update: Check out Aereo's response, also included after the break. Just as predictably, it "does not believe that the broadcasters' position has any merit and it very much looks forward to a full and fair airing of the issues."
Show full PR text
NAB Statement on Broadcasters' Lawsuit Filed Against Aereo
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- In response to a lawsuit filed today with the U.S. District Court, Southern District of New York against Aereo by a group of broadcasters, the following statement can be attributed to NAB Executive Vice President of Communications Dennis Wharton:

"NAB strongly supports today's legal action against Aereo. Copyright and TV signal protections promote a robust local broadcasting system that serves tens of millions of Americans every day with high quality news, entertainment, sports and emergency weather information. A plaintiffs' win in this case will ensure the continued availability of this programming to the viewing public."

About NAB
The National Association of Broadcasters is the premier advocacy association for America's broadcasters. NAB advances radio and television interests in legislative, regulatory and public affairs. Through advocacy, education and innovation, NAB enables broadcasters to best serve their communities, strengthen their businesses and seize new opportunities in the digital age. Learn more at www.nab.org.

Aereo Blog Post
Today, two groups of broadcasters filed two separate federal lawsuits against Aereo in the Southern District of New York claiming that Aereo will infringe their copyrights by making available technology which enables consumers to access broadcast television via a remote antenna and DVR. Aereo does not believe that the broadcasters' position has any merit and it very much looks forward to a full and fair airing of the issues.

Consumers are legally entitled to access broadcast television via an antenna and they are entitled to record television content for their personal use. Innovations in technology over time, from digital signals to Digital Video Recorders ("DVRs"), have made access to television easier and better for consumers. Aereo provides technology that enables consumers to use their cloud DVR and their remote antenna to record and watch the broadcast television signal to which they are entitled anywhere they are, whether on a phone, a tablet, a television or a laptop.

Aereo looks forward to its upcoming product launch as well as a prompt resolution of these cases.

Android and iOS expose your photos to third party apps, promise fixes

Posted: 01 Mar 2012 01:54 PM PST

2012 is still young, yet it's already shaping up to be a bad year for privacy and security on the mobile front. Apple found itself embroiled in a bit of a brouhaha over the iPhone address book and an app called Path. And, of course, Google was put under the microscope when mobile Safari was found to have a security flaw that its mobile ads were exploiting. Then, earlier this week, it was discovered that granting iOS apps access to your location could also expose your photos. Now it's been discovered that Android also exposes your images, though, it's doing so without asking for any permissions at all. While Apple was masking photo access with other permissions, Google is simply leaving your pics vulnerable as a part of a design quirk that came from the OS's reliance on microSD cards. Both companies have acknowledged the flaws and have said they're currently working on fixes. We're just hoping things start to quiet down soon, though -- our mobile operating systems are running out of personal data to expose. Check out the source links for more details.

Google Wallet Android app updated, headed to 'at least' ten more Sprint phones this year

Posted: 01 Mar 2012 01:27 PM PST

Google may have had to deal with some less-than-positive Google Wallet news last month, but it was able to announce some progress of a different sort in the past couple of days. The first is an update to the Android app, which adds the ability to handle PO Boxes for prepaid card top-ups, along with a number of other fixes and improvements. The second, more significant news comes out of Mobile World Congress, where Google Wallet and Payments VP Osama Bedier revealed that the mobile payment service would be heading to "at least 10 additional phones" on Sprint this year -- no word on those specific phones, though. Details on any expansion plans beyond that also remain a bit light, with Bedier only saying that Google remains in talks with other carriers and device manufactures.

SpeechJammer gun gives loudmouths a dose of their own medicine to keep 'em quiet

Posted: 01 Mar 2012 12:56 PM PST

Silence is golden, so there are plenty of times when it'd be awfully convenient to mute those around us, and a couple of Japanese researchers have created a gadget that can do just that. Called the SpeechJammer, it's able to "disturb remote people's speech without any physical discomfort" by recording and replaying what you say a fraction of a second after you say it. Why would that shut up the chatty Cathy next to you? Delayed auditory feedback (DAF) is based on an established psychological principle that it's well-nigh impossible for folks to speak when their words are played back to them just after they've been uttered. SpeechJammer puts the power of DAF in a radar gun-style package that uses a directional mic and speaker, distance sensor and a trigger switch to turn it on, plus a laser pointer for targeting purposes -- so you simply point and shoot at your talkative target, and enjoy the silence that ensues. Piggy, your new conch has arrived, and this one can make Jack keep quiet.

The Engadget Podcast, live at 5:00PM ET!

Posted: 01 Mar 2012 12:30 PM PST

While the rest of the staff toils away in Barcelona for Mobile World Congress, Tim and Brian will be holding things down in the New York City studio. Michael Gorman will be joining us via Skype -- and you can join along too in the chat after the break.


*** You can also stream the show live on your iPhone or iPad by clicking here.

This Week in Facebook: Offers, Ads and Timeline for Pages

Posted: 01 Mar 2012 12:13 PM PST

Facebook's gently unveiled a raft of changes to its policies to boost advertising on the social network. It unveiled Timeline for pages, meaning that companies can now start uploading baby pictures and changing the cover photo every day. While adverts have been traditionally restricted to the right-rail of the site, now they'll be jammed in at will -- including in your mobile app (which the company conceded it wasn't "monetizing"), timeline and log in / out pages. Advertisers will also have access to a reach generator: once your brand reaches a set (unspecified) number of fans, you can pay to contact up to 75 percent of them with your adverts each month. Finally, there's offers: a way for businesses to share discounts and promotions with users that can then be whipped out at the store on your cellphone, which is certainly cooler than slicing out sections of the penny saver.

[Thanks, Chris]
Show full PR text
Announcing Offers, New Placements

February 29, 2012

Today we're announcing a new product called Offers and new placements for premium advertising and Sponsored Stories.

Premium Ads and Sponsored Stories on Facebook
Premium ads can now be seen on the log-out page and Sponsored Stories can be seen in News Feed on mobile devices. Sponsored Stories are posts from friends or Pages on Facebook that a business, organization or individual has paid to highlight so there's a better chance people will see them. Like all stories in News Feed, people have control over who sees a Sponsored Story.

Offers
Offers are a free new way for businesses to share discounts and promotions directly from a Facebook Page. They can be distributed through the News Feed or promoted as Sponsored Stories. People can redeem Offers via email or on a mobile device.

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Announcing an Update to Pages

February 29, 2012

Today we're announcing an update to Pages. It includes a cover photo, larger story sizes, better tools to manage a Page and more. The new features help business and organizations better share their story and connect with people.

New Page features include:

Cover Photo
Businesses and organizations can now add a cover photo to the top of their Page.

Friend Activity
When someone first visits a Page, they may see friends' recent posts spotlighted as friend activity. People will also see how many of their friends are connected to a Page.

Larger Stories, Milestones, and Page Timeline
The new Page design allows Page owners to tell stories through bigger photos and milestones that can include a date and other content.

Pinned Posts
Organizations can pin a post to keep a story at the top of a Page for up to seven days.

Admin Panel
The Admin panel is a new way for Page administrators to track their performance and to respond to private messages from people.

Activity Log
Page administrators have access to a log of their Page activity, including tools to easily highlight, hide or delete posts and change the date of a post

NSA builds own model of Android phone, wants you to do the same

Posted: 01 Mar 2012 11:54 AM PST

The NSA decided it wanted to have its own go at producing a secure Android smartphone that could encrypt communications to levels necessary for national security. Project "Fishbowl" constructed 100 handsets from off-the-shelf components that were secure enough that staffers could use them without speaking in code. All conversations are conducted across an IPsec VPN with a secure, real-time transport protocol for encrypting the voice at both ends, with the VoIP server being housed inside an NSA facility. It's part of a program to get handset makers to build this kit so the Information Assurance Directorate doesn't have to navigate the interoperability hurdles between each company's tech. The agency has launched a how-to for any manufacturer looking for a large Government contract to produce Fishbowl phones on a larger scale, although they'll probably have to change the name to something more threatening like MK-Ultraphone or the Phoneadelphia Experiment.

Google puts ITA acquisition to use again with new airline reservation system for Cape Air

Posted: 01 Mar 2012 11:32 AM PST

It may be starting out fairly small, but Google has just made its first push into the airline reservation business. That comes courtesy of its 2010 acquisition of ITA Software, which has already resulted in the Flight Search service and OnTheFly app, and has now also produced a new reservation system for Massachusetts-based Cape Air. That may not look all that different from other airlines' systems on the surface, but Google says that there's plenty different going on under the hood, noting that it was built "from scratch using modern, modular, scalable technologies." That last bit is perhaps the key one, with Google further adding that the system is "built to scale to support airlines of all sizes." In other words, it seems safe to assume that Google has its sights set a lot higher than small regional airlines. Those interested in trying out the system or booking a New England trip can do so now on Cape Air's site linked below.
Show full PR text
Cape Air Debuts New Airline Reservation System From ITA Software by Google

HYANNIS, Mass., March 1, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Cape Air, one of the nation's largest independent regional airlines, announced today it has launched ITA Software's new airline platform. Cape Air teamed up with ITA Software, the organization named by Fast Company magazine as one of the "Ten Most Innovative Companies in Transportation" to be the first airline to implement a new reservations platform that will streamline bookings and greatly enhance the end-to-end passenger experience.

Cape Air customers will benefit by:

Effortless shopping of one-way, round-trip and multi-city flights and fares.
Self-service tools that allow a customer to quickly process changes to reservations and itineraries.
A system comprised of flexible reservation features designed with one idea in mind – to ensure the customer's booking flow is easy and secure.

Consumers can now use Cape Air's new airline reservation system via new web sites for both Cape Air (capeair.com), and Nantucket Airlines (nantucketairlines.com). Enabled by the high-tech, advanced nature of ITA's technology, the web sites are designed to create a personalized, rewarding experience for Cape Air's customers and are portals for travel to Cape Air's destination cities across the US and Caribbean.

Equally as important to the technology advancements was the opportunity for these two Massachusetts-based organizations to collaborate on a project that will reshape the travel industry. From Cape Air's Hyannis-based headquarters and ITA's Cambridge-based offices, over 300 employees worked on the development, testing and launch of the new system across the entire Cape Air flight network.

"Today's announcement is an important step for the future of Cape Air. We're proud of the achievement made by our teams to build the next generation in travel technology," said Dan Wolf, Founder and CEO, Cape Air . "Our customers expect the best from Cape Air, and by investing in technology, our passengers and employees will benefit by faster and easier handling of booking and changing reservations"

"Our team at ITA has been working to build a modern airline platform from scratch on open systems technology," said Jeremy Wertheimer, Vice President, Google, Travel, "Cape Air has been the perfect partner in helping this effort".

About Cape Air:

Now in its 22nd year, Cape Air is one of the largest independent regional airlines in the United States annually flying over 650,000 passengers to destinations around the world including New England, New York, the Caribbean, Florida, the Mid-Atlantic, the Midwest and Micronesia. With a fleet of sixty-four Cessna 402s and two ATR-42s, the employee-owned company operates up to 600 flights per day. Based in Hyannis, Massachusetts, Cape Air also operates flights under the Nantucket Airlines brand. Cape Air is a codeshare partner with Continental Airlines (soon to be United Airlines) in the Caribbean and American Airlines in the Midwest. In Micronesia Cape Air operates as Continental Connection or United Express. In addition, Cape Air has ticket and baggage agreements with most major airlines. Cape Air's unique brand of customer service, MOCHA HAGoTDI,* has earned the airline accolades as 'Best Airline' on Nantucket, Martha's Vineyard and in the United States Virgin Islands. The airline has been recognized for outstanding philanthropy in the communities it serves and Cape Air Founder and CEO Dan Wolf was recipient of the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year™ Award.

* Make our Customers Happy and Have a Good Time Doing It

www.capeair.com

SOURCE Cape Air

Audi goes hybrid and ultralight with R18 Le Mans racers

Posted: 01 Mar 2012 11:10 AM PST

Generally, when we talk hybrids, we're talking about a car that either powers itself on batteries at low speeds, only firing up the internal combustion engine when a little extra giddy-up is needed, or an electric car that turns the gas-powered piston pusher inside into a glorified power plant. Audi's e-tron quattro is a little different, though. The R18 sports a four-wheel drive system that powers one axle with an electric motor, while the other gets its juice from a 510 hp V6. The e-tron quattro also has a sibling, the Audi R18 Ultra, which seeks to compensate for the added weight of a hybrid drive train by using extremely lightweight materials, like carbon fiber, wherever possible -- including the gearbox. Both cars will be making their debut at the Le Mans 24 Hour on June 16th. For more details check out the PR after the break.
Show full PR text
Audi brings the quattro back to the race track

World premiere in Munich: the new Audi R18 e-tron quattro
Four-wheel driven diesel hybrid for the 24 Hours of Le Mans
Audi ultra lightweight as base for the application of hybrid technology


Ingolstadt/Munich, February 29, 2012 – Motor sport is used yet again by AUDI AG to pioneer new technology: the brand with the four ring's new Le Mans race car is the world's first LMP1 car to combine a highly-efficient TDI with a hybrid system. quattro drive also celebrates its comeback to the race track with the prototype – in a entirely new form.

Audi R18 e-tron quattro is the name of the new Le Mans prototype that makes its race debut on May 5 in the 6-hour race at Spa-Francorchamps (Belgium) and fights for overall victory at the famous 24 Hours of Le Mans (France) on June 16/17. Audi unites two technologies in a fascinating way to create a new type of drive, which is also already being tested for future use in production cars: e-tron quattro.

Hiding behind this description is the next generation four-wheel drive with which Audi combines the advantages of the proven quattro drive with the potential of electromobility. To this end one vehicle axle is powered conventionally, the second by electric motors.

"Audi has always consciously selected championships and categories in racing that have a close relationship to production and therefore have technical relevance for the Audi customers," explains Head of Audi Motorsport Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich, who personally drove the new Audi R18 e-tron quattro onto the stage on Wednesday evening during its world premiere in the Audi Training Center at Munich airport – electrically and almost silent. "quattro, TFSI and TDI are three excellent examples of how motorsport has stimulated production development. A similar tendency is apparent with the e-tron quattro: we test a completely new technology on the race track before it's introduced to the Audi production line."

On the Audi R18 e-tron quattro kinetic energy is recovered on the front axle during the braking phase. It is fed as electric into a flywheel accumulator before being retrieved under acceleration again above a speed of 120 km/h. During this procedure only the front axle is integrated. The V6 TDI power plant producing 375 kW (510 hp) continues to transmit its power to the rear wheels. Both systems complement each other to create the new drive principle e-tron quattro.

Project began in February 2010

The project e-tron quattro for motorsport started in February 2010. Only 18 months passed from the initial conceptual ideas to the first test. "This is a relatively short cycle for a technology that has never been tested in motorsport and which still doesn't even exist in production," stresses Dr. Martin Mühlmeier, Head of Technology at Audi Sport. "The challenge is correspondingly big."

Audi Sport developed the Audi R18 ultra in parallel to the Audi R18 e-tron quattro – because Audi takes a two-pronged approach this year in the 24 Hours of Le Mans and in the newly created FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) – the 2012 model year Audi R18 is built with and without hybrid drive. The trick: the base of both cars is completely identical, which is why the additional logistical effort is kept limited for Audi Sport and the race team.

"The TDI engine invented by Audi is still the most efficient drive in the world," says Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich. "We are convinced that the TDI has even more potential. This is why Audi not only supports the hybrid in motorsport as it does in production, but in parallel also the further development of the conventional drive."

Innovation in transmission area

The R18 e-tron quattro's twin brother more than lives up to its model name 'R18 ultra': it is the lightest Le Mans prototype that Audi Sport has ever built. To compensate for the additional weight of the hybrid system the subject of lightweight design and construction was the focus throughout development of the 2011 Le Mans race winning R18 TDI. In addition to the many detail optimizations there is also a genuine innovation in the transmission area: a new gearbox with a carbon-fiber composite housing was developed for the R18 – a premiere for endurance racing.

"The new R18 ultra is a distinct evolution of last year's Le Mans race winning car," summarizes Head of Audi Motorsport Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich. "Our drivers' impressions were very positive from the first moment. Without the weight optimized R18 ultra we would have not been capable of realizing the R18 e-tron quattro which is absolutely identical with the exception of the hybrid system."

Le Mans 2012: two R18 e-tron quattro and two R18 ultra

Audi Sport Team Joest will field two R18 e-tron quattro and two R18 ultra prototypes in the Le Mans 24 Hours on June 16/17. The two hybrid cars are driven by last year's winning trio Marcel Fässler (CH), André Lotterer (D) and Benoît Tréluyer (F) as well as Dindo Capello (I), Tom Kristensen (DK) and Allan McNish (GB) who boast a total of 13 Le Mans wins between them. New signing Loïc Duval (F) starts together with Timo Bernhard (D) and Romain Dumas (F) in an R18 ultra as do Marco Bonanomi (I), Oliver Jarvis (GB) and Mike Rockenfeller (D).

Audi Sport Team Joest also contests the World Championship round at Spa-Francorchamps (Belgium) on May 5 in the same formation. At the same time the race doubles as a dress rehearsal for the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Only Mike Rockenfeller will miss this race due to a clashing date with the DTM.

After the 24 Hours of Le Mans, Audi plans to enter an R18 e-tron quattro and an R18 ultra in the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC). André Lotterer and Allan McNish have been nominated as the drivers so far.

At the World Championship opener at Sebring (USA) on March 17, Audi Sport Team Joest relies on the proven R18 TDI from last year, which are driven by Marcel Fässler/André Lotterer/Benoît Tréluyer, Dindo Capello/Tom Kristensen/Allan McNish as well as Timo Bernhard/Romain Dumas/Loïc Duval.

Slide and Photovine to officially bite the dust on March 6th

Posted: 01 Mar 2012 10:49 AM PST

The final day for you to save all of your precious data from Slide and Photovine is quickly approaching. We knew that Slide and its various properties would eventually be shut down when founder Max Levchin left for greener pastures back in August of last year. Now the day is upon us -- on March 6th the services will be shuttered and any info you didn't export will be gone for good. So hit up the source to save your data before it's too late.

Windows 8 Consumer Preview hits one million downloads in a day

Posted: 01 Mar 2012 10:30 AM PST

How pumped are consumers about the release of a Windows 8 preview that they can call their own? Quite, according the million downloads the build has marked in just a day. That number comes from Microsoft's Building Windows Twitter account -- of course, it's important to note that the number doesn't necessarily mean one million individuals downloaded Consumer Preview. Still, not bad for a day's work.
at 12:02 PM

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