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- Samsung countdown teases next Galaxy phone with anagram
- Helium-filled floating wind turbine, renewable energy with style
- Virgin and Boost to go 4G, makes Sprint's WiMAX feel wanted
- Microsoft applies for low-powered interactive second display system patent
- UK department store John Lewis launches broadband service, get in on the ground floor
- New BeoPlay V1 shows up ahead of time, hearts and wallets flutter
- ASUS Transformer Pad TF300 review
- Huawei Ascend G312 (U8680) lands at FCC, unsurprisingly sports T-Mobile myTouch moniker
- Ask Engadget: best sub-$150 mechanical keyboard?
- Google pushes IMM76I ICS build to HSPA+ Galaxy Nexus, reportedly quells connectivity woes
- Mobile Miscellany: week of April 16th, 2012
- Youzee: Spain's streaming startup answer to Netflix
- HTC EVO Design 4G coming to Boost Mobile 'end of this quarter'
- First ASUS G55VW gaming laptop configuration spotted and priced
- Cablevision's Optimum Online live TV streaming now available on Windows and Mac
- Sprint discontinues HTC EVO 3D online, limited quantities remain at retail stores
- Study shows more people watch TV on tablets than computers, still nothing on
- Polaris' pool-cleaning robots get updated with added intelligence, four-wheel drive
- RedSn0w updated for Mac and Windows: adds Corona A5 jailbreak, other tools
- Facebook flips the switch on its North Carolina data center, cooled with balmy mountain air
- 3DS firmware update promises folders, less cluttered home screens on April 25th
- HTC talks smartphone design: from inception to final product
- Google app review video shows Share to 'Drive' option
- Visualized: Shopping bag crash helmet protects your head, not your image (video)
- Amazon Germany weighs in on Samsung Galaxy S III with 4.7-inch screen and 12 megapixel camera
- WPC updates Qi standard, increases inductive charging distance to 40mm
- 500px launches Android app, adds iPad update on the side
- Sifteo and Surface team up for magical marriage of meaninglessness
- Google Sync for BlackBerry swept away in spring cleaning
- ASUS Transformer Prime GPS Extension Kit hands-on
- The Engadget Show is live, here at 6:00PM ET!
- Hands-on with HTC's colorful One X cases
- Nokia's White Lumia 900 reportedly available now at AT&T stores
- HTC One X available today on Rogers for $170 with a three-year contract
- Google+ expands SMS support to over 41 countries, lets you stay social over text
- LG Viper 4G LTE review
- Time Warner Cable brings ESPN, Fox and Turner sports live streaming to apps, website
- Nissan adopts 15 EV chargers, is first on nappy duty (video)
- IRL: Logitech UE Air Speaker, the Canon Rebel XT and an Arduino non-starter
- SanDisk profits declining thanks to a 'glut' of flash memory on the market
| Samsung countdown teases next Galaxy phone with anagram Posted: 22 Apr 2012 11:26 AM PDT
Sammy's latest marketing ploy kicked off with a string of nonsense that could just as easily have come from the Sunday morning jumble: "Destination: tgeltaayehxnx," declared the Samsung Mobile Twitter account. Anagram wizards will read that as, "the next Galaxy," and wouldn't you know it, it's also the URL for a auspicious countdown clock. Sammy promises to let visitors take "the next step" in about 17 hours and counting. Bonafide internet sleuths can find an extra carrot strung up in the site's source, reading, "discover how Samsung is about to challenge the way you view the Galaxy once more." Is Samsung about to break its own May 3rd unveiling? We'll let you know in 16 hours and change. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Helium-filled floating wind turbine, renewable energy with style Posted: 22 Apr 2012 10:02 AM PDT
There's no doubting that the cause of renewable energy is a noble one. But, ethics aside, it also gives birth to the occasional technical marvel. Altaeros Energies, a company from Massachusetts (with MIT and Harvard blood in its veins) has created one such curiosity. The prototype is a wind-turbine that doesn't just languish on a hill-top, cutting a line in the horizon. No, this one has a helium-filled outer-section which allows it to deploy itself to 1,000 feet, where it can benefit from stronger, more consistent winds and gives nearly twice the power yields of its land bound brethren. That's all very nice, but we just thought it looked dang cool in action. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Virgin and Boost to go 4G, makes Sprint's WiMAX feel wanted Posted: 22 Apr 2012 07:54 AM PDT
If you were thinking "how wonderful, but..." when you learned that Boost was getting a new 4G handset, hold that thought. If reports from Technobuffalo are to be believed, both Boost and Virgin Mobile will be renewing their vows with host provider Sprint and getting access to its 4G spread. Surprisingly, this apparently only extends to the existing WiMAX, not LTE infrastructure. While WiMAX isn't Sprint's favorite 4G flavor, it has at least committed to keeping it going for a while yet, enough time for you to upgrade once more at least. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Microsoft applies for low-powered interactive second display system patent Posted: 22 Apr 2012 05:44 AM PDT
Oh patent applications... where creative ideas dance shoulder to shoulder with ill-conceived folly. Which do we have here today? We're not sure. What we are sure of, however, is that someone at Microsoft has applied for a patent that describes a device with two screens. Not that old chestnut, but the second screen being of lower-power, like e-ink, and displaying different information based on the state of the first one (i.e. is it against your face or not.) The not-to-be-trusted images illustrate the second screen covering the back of a device and displaying a clock, or other such user specified info. The app does state that it would continue to display info, even if the device was in a sleep mode, and describes a non-flat contour. If you were to read into it, it might sound like rear e-ink phone housing, but if this ever comes to pass, it'll likely be with a little bit of dressing down, so don't get too excited. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| UK department store John Lewis launches broadband service, get in on the ground floor Posted: 22 Apr 2012 03:59 AM PDT
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| New BeoPlay V1 shows up ahead of time, hearts and wallets flutter Posted: 22 Apr 2012 02:13 AM PDT
We're more used to phones getting leaked ahead of time, but it's not always just the latest and greatest handset that sneaks its way into our inbox. Danish website Recordere has managed to get a cheeky glimpse of the new BeoPlay V1 TV from Bang and Olufsen. Pegged as the new "affordable" model from the Scandinavian manufacturer, it'll come in two flavors: the BeoPlay V1-32 and V1-40 (the numbers representing screen size,) which include DLNA functionality, five HDMI ports, one USB, and integrated 5.1 surround sound, as well as a few other treats. The official launch is the 5th of May, with pricing set at €2,399 and €2,899 (about $3,170 and $3,831 respectively) depending how big the space in your front room is. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ASUS Transformer Pad TF300 review Posted: 22 Apr 2012 12:00 AM PDT
 It doesn't feel like a year has passed since we reviewed the original ASUS Transformer and its innovative keyboard dock, but indeed time flies, and quite a bit has happened since then. The company has released the Prime, for starters, followed by two other high-end models. And now, the OG Transformer is going the way of the dodo, as the affordable new Transformer Pad 300 (aka the TF300) takes its place. Though this newest tablet was announced back in February, it's only just going on sale in the US this week, starting at $379 for the 16GB version, and $399 for one with 32GB of built-in storage. In addition to the fact that this replaces a truly memorable product, the TF300 is intriguing because it represents an even better deal for consumers: it borrows some design cues from the higher-end Prime, and also steps up to a similar 8-megapixel camera. Like the Prime, too, it runs an unskinned version of Android 4.0 and packs a quad-core Tegra 3 chip -- something you don't often see in a tablet this price. In short, the main differences between this and the Prime are battery life (10 hours versus 12), and the quality of the display (the 10-inch screen here offers 350 nits of brightness instead of 600). Those all sound like reasonable trade-offs and, frankly, they are. That's our abridged review, over and done with in just two paragraphs, but meet us past the break if you're craving a little more detail. Hardware
Think of it as a watered-down Prime. Make no mistake: the TF300 shares some overarching design language with the original, so even now that there are several Transformers on the market the lineup still feels cohesive. Even so, with a starting price at $379, the company naturally chose to hold back some of the flourishes that make the Prime worth the premium. After all, ASUS needs to give you some reason to splurge on the top-shelf model, right? For starters, that spun back is now made of plastic, not metal, so although it looks like the Prime and Zenbook line, the build quality isn't quite as impeccable. Meanwhile, the body itself has widened to .38 inches (9.7mm), up from .33 (8.4mm) on the Prime. As for weight, the TF300 tips the scales at 1.39 pounds, compared with 1.28 for the original. None of that's saying much, though: even with those dimensions, the TF300 manages to be slimmer than the new Galaxy Tab 2 10.1 and Acer Iconia Tab A200, two similarly priced tablets that measure .41 and .49 inches thick, respectively. As for weight, the TF300 is heavier than the 1.29-pound Galaxy Tab 2 10.1 and its big brother, the Prime. For what it's worth, though, it offers roughly the same runtime as the A200, which weighs a fifth of a pound more. We haven't yet tested the second-gen 10.1, so we can't yet speak to its battery life, but suffice to say its lighter weight won't be such a boon if the battery inside can't last as long as some of its heftier competitors. So what do all of these stats amount to? A damn good mid-range tablet, we say. No, this isn't as rock-solid or tantalizing slim as the Prime, but if you were willing to spend $500 on a tablet, you would have already, ya know? Compared to the $399 Tab 2 10.1 and $350 A200, the total package here is slightly more sophisticated, though we've also got kind things to say about the muted finish on the 10.1, and the non-slip backing on the A200. Oh, speaking of sophisticated, the tablet we tested had a dark blue backing, and that's indeed the version you'll see on sale starting this week. Eventually, it'll also be available in more playful red and white hues, but you'll have to wait until June for those to hit shelves. Before we move on to how the tablet actually performs, let's take a short tour around the device, shall we? 'Round back, of course, you'll find that 8-megapixel auto-focusing camera, paired with a 1.2-megapixel one on the front. If you're looking for the power / lock button, you'll find it on the top landscape edge, leaving it easy to press even when the tablet's nestled in its keyboard dock. The volume rocker and micro-HDMI socket sit on the upper left side (assuming you're holding the thing in landscape), with a microSD slot located further down on that left edge. On the right, there's nothing but the requisite 3.5mm headphone / mic jack. The bottom edge -- the one that connects to the optional keyboard dock -- is home to three connectors, including the 40-pin charging slot that works with the included AC adapter. Inside, the device is home to all the usual radios and sensors, including Bluetooth 3.0, a gyroscope, e-compass, aGPS, an ambient light sensor and a G-sensor, with either 16GB or 32GB of internal storage. And no, for those of you who are wondering, we didn't encounter any problems with WiFi or GPS, like some Prime owners, though these are admittedly the kinds of issues real-world owners might stumble across after an extended honeymoon period. Display and sound Like the Prime that came before it (and pretty much every other 10-inch tablet on the market), this guy has a pixel count of 1280 x 800. The difference, though, is that while the original Prime has a 600-nit Super IPS+ display, the TF300 has a brightness level of 350 nits and is "merely" IPS. (We know, right?!) If you're working indoors, with the tablet plugged into the keyboard dock, that drop in brightness shouldn't bother you, though if you're parked outdoors you might find the viewing angles are narrower than what you'd otherwise get on the Prime. Still, with the brightness pushed to the max (a luxury you can afford, given the robust battery life), you should have little problem glancing at your email on the go or framing shots in the camera app. Even if you don't end up buying the dock, it's simple to follow along with a movie while the tablet's resting flat on a table (or airplane tray) in front of you. (Keep in mind, though, that the speaker's located on the back side, which means the tablet's otherwise loud, balanced audio will sound muffled if you rest the thing face-up.) Really, the main drawback seems to be that this 350-nit panel doesn't do as good a job as the 600-nit one in countering sun glare. Performance and graphics
Like the Prime, the TF300 packs 1GB of RAM and a quad-core Tegra 3 processor, though this chip's clocked at a slightly lower speed (1.2GHz versus 1.3). If you care, the memory type is now DDR3 -- an improvement over the OG Transformer. Once again, ASUS has programmed three different power modes (balanced, power saving and performance), and depending on which you choose the chip can be overclocked to 1.3GHz or throttled down to as low as 600MHz (see the table below for a quickie performance comparison). So what do these feeds and speeds translate to, anyhow? Superlative benchmark scores, for starters. Though it doesn't quite best its big brother (and why would anyone expect it to?), it steamrolled its similarly priced, similarly sized competitors in every benchmark we threw at it. Notice, too, that the TF300 notches a particularly wide lead in graphics tests like NenaMark. NVIDIA's put a lot of marketing muscle into demoing games on Tegra 3, and has seen to it that tabs like the TF300 come pre-loaded with a title or two designed to showcase its rendering prowess. Indeed, we noticed nary a hiccup as we fled monkeys in Temple Run, and the screen was also responsive as we swiped up to jump and down to slide under overgrown tree trunks. And if we do say so, that loud speaker allows for some crisp sound effects (that is, until the person next to you on the train stink-eyes you into muting those monkey shrieks). Still, a quad-core chip isn't necessarily a shortcut to flawless performance -- and neither is Ice Cream Sandwich, for that matter. Particularly when we first started playing with it, we noticed delays as we tapped on apps, and the display didn't always seem to hear our fingers calling. (For what it's worth, we never once suffered an app crash.) All this improved quite a bit after we rebooted the device for the first time, but even then we waited patiently through a lag here and there. In particular, web browsing is a bit disappointing: when you zoom in on text or images, you'll almost always notice some white tiling before everything scales as it should. Even the benchmark scores hint at that: though the TF300 takes the gold medal in SunSpider and Vellamo, it wins by a much narrower margin than it does in other categories.
Rest assured that if you settle for that median performance mode you won't be taking much of a performance hit, if any. Our graphics scores between the balanced and performance modes were similar across the board, which means there's not that much incentive to switch to the maximum settings, especially if balanced mode holds the promise of longer battery life. Battery life
According to ASUS, the 22Wh juicepack inside the TF300 can last through up to 10 hours of active use. In our standard rundown test, we managed eight and a half hours of video playback before the tablet finally gave out. Altogether, that's not as impressive a showing as the Transformer Prime, whose 25Wh battery lasted 10-plus hours in the same test -- and that's despite the fact that the Prime has the overhead of a brighter display. Admittedly, of course, our video playback test is taxing, not least because we fix the brightness at 50 percent. With less intense use (read: more idle time) we eked out closer to 12 hours, and that even included some video playback. This time around, the dock, too, has a smaller battery than what you'll get with the Prime (16.5Wh versus 22Wh), which should amount to an extra five hours of runtime. We've yet to complete a test with the full dock, but rest assured we're on it. We'll update this review once we get a final score. Dock Some things don't change. This Transformer, like every other we've reviewed, works with a keyboard dock that doubles as an extended battery, adding an extra five hours of runtime, in this case. The dock is also home two full-size ports -- a USB 2.0 socket and SD slot -- giving you two more ways to shuttle files between your tablet and computer. The most important thing to know, though, if you're new around these parts is that the Transformer doesn't exactly live up to its name out of the box: the dock is sold separately for $150. For better and worse, the engineering here hasn't really changed, so if you already own a first-gen Transformer and are wondering if you should upgrade, you can probably get away with skimming this section. For newcomers, though, we'll say this: the keys are serviceable, but we don't recommend buying the tablet and dock and expecting them to add up to a laptop replacement. The keys have a flimsy, precarious feel to them, and are at the disadvantage of having been shrunk to accommodate a 10-inch screen. We've also found that the speed of word entry is limited by the tablet, so even though your hands might fly across the keyboard, you'll still notice a slight delay as letters start to appear onscreen. In terms of the typing experience, then, we'd recommend this about as much as we would a netbook: it's enormously handy for pecking out URLs, web searches and short messages, but we wouldn't suggest composing your 15-page term paper (or even 4,000-word review) on it.
The truth is, though, even a netbook probably has a sturdier keyboard panel than this -- not to mention, sounder ergonomics. ASUS hasn't done anything to remedy the off-kilter weight distribution, so when the tablet is docked it can still tilt backwards if you're not careful (this is especially true if you're working with it in your lap). For what it's worth, the tablet fits into the dock with a reassuring click and the combined setup feels quite durable, even if the underside of the dock is prone to surface scratches. Ironically, though, we enjoy the dock's small, multitouch trackpad more than the touchpads on a lot of the laptops we test. Paging up and down or side to side is a no-fuss affair, and the buttons are tactile, if a bit noisy. The pad isn't quite spacious enough for pinch-to-zoom, however, and indeed the trackpad doesn't support it; you'll have to double click to zoom in, or just reach up and perform that gesture on the screen. Once you get over the feeling that you're "supposed" to use the trackpad for scrolling and zooming, it can actually be quite liberating to mix keyboard, mouse and touchscreen input, depending on what's convenient. For first-time buyers, there's no reason to consider a dock other than this one, the one that was fine-tuned to fit the TF300's particular dimensions. But folks thinking of retiring their OG Transformers might be curious to see if they can save that $150 by slipping their new, state-of-the-art tablet into an older, but still good enough dock. ASUS has an answer ready for you, and we're afraid it's not what you want to hear: the TF300 is not backward compatible with the original dock or USB cable. It should go without saying that the new dock isn't 100 percent simpatico with the Prime or OG Transformer either, since the TF300 dock was designed specifically to cradle the 300. Software Though manufacturers like Samsung and HTC are having a field day customizing Ice Cream Sandwich, ASUS is sticking to a different strategy: loading up its tablets with a stock version of Android 4.0.3, and peppering it with a few extra apps and widgets (all uninstallable, fortunately). As for those pre-installed apps, the list includes Amazon's Kindle reader; App Backup (along with the separate App Backup & Restore); App Locker for password-protecting applications; a shortcut to get Glowball; ASUS MyCloud, My Library and MyNet; Netflix; Photoshop Express; SuperNote; Temple Run; the Zinio magazine store; and a shortcut to the games section of TegraZone (we were being dead-serious about NVIDIA's marketing clout, folks). Users also get 8GB of free lifetime ASUS WebStorage, which is a twist over the way ASUS treated the OG Transformer (in that case, customers received unlimited storage, which was only free for the first year). Camera In addition to industrial design, another key way in which the TF300 takes after the Prime is in image quality. Now, the basic Transformer tablet has an8-megapixel, backlit-illuminated CMOS sensor with an f.2.2 lens. That's not hugely different from the Prime's 8-megapixel sensor and f/2.4 lens, except the Prime also has an LED flash for lower-light shots. Even so, this makes for a welcome improvement over the 5-megapixel camera included on last year's model. And though megapixels aren't everything, it also has the potential to trump the 3-megapixel shooter on the Galaxy Tab 2 10.1, which also doesn't have a flash. And we're definitely comfortable saying this is a better deal than the $350 Acer Iconia Tab A200, which for a similar price has no rear camera at all, and isn't even necessarily thinner or lighter for lack of that extra hardware. For better and worse, the camera performs similarly to the one on the Prime. Here, too, you can tap to focus, and the camera does an admirable (though not necessarily quick) job of honing in on the detail of your choice. We did take some issue with the color rendering: some shades look undersaturated (see those apples in our gallery above), while other shades got lost in translation. Some red begonias, for instance, were actually magenta, if our resulting pictures are to be believed. On the bright side, the flash-less camera holds its own in dim (but not necessarily dark) settings. This generation of the Transformer also records 1080p video at 30 fps. Fortunately, we experienced none of the dropped frames that we did when we first tested the original: the quality here is relatively light on motion blur, and the audio capture is intelligent enough to catch subtler sounds off camera, like passerby's conversation. Watch the compilation below, for example: you can hear a stranger off-camera expressing amusement (or horror?) at the a mannequin in a store window -- a kind of detail that might have been drowned out by wind noise had we been recording with a lesser device. Configurations, accessories and the competition
The TF300 starts at $379 for 16GB of storage, with the 32GB model fetching $399. (Side note: why can't all manufacturers charge just a small premium for doubling the internal storage?) In addition, ASUS is selling some accessories (no, we're not really counting the namesake dock here): the VersaSleeve (it is what it sounds like), a micro-HDMI-to-VGA dongle, an external USB adapter and a 4-in-1 memory card reader -- you know, in case you want an SD reader, but don't want to buy the $150 dock to get it. Of course, we're getting a bit ahead of ourselves. We're assuming you're choosing this particular tablet. And in case you couldn't tell, we'd heartily agree with your decision if you did, though for anyone who's been holding out for a not-too-expensive Android 4.0 tablet, no reason not to see what else is on the menu. The beautiful thing for anyone shopping right now is that there seems to be an uptick in reasonably priced 10-inch tablets. We're thinking of the Galaxy Tab 2 10.1, which at $399 isn't quite the top-shelf product the first-gen 10.1 was. Ditto for the $350 Acer Iconia Tab A200, one of the first affordable ICS tablets we saw this year. Even the iPad 2 has seen a price cut to $400, but we still maintain first-time iPad buyers are best off paying the extra $100 for the new iPad, if only to get that crisp Retina display. If an iPad's your speed, then, you're probably not seriously considering an Android tablet and likewise, not all shoppers want to be wed to Apple's ecosystem. Anyhow, for those of you who prefer Android, you've got at least three solid options at the ready. And the truth is, we've enjoyed our time with all of them, though the TF300 offers faster performance and longer battery life than either of these two contenders, both of which make do with last year's dual-core Tegra 2 SoC. For what it's worth, the Acer Iconia Tab A510 will have Tegra 3 when it ships, but at $450 for the 32GB model, it'll cost fifty bucks more than the 32GB TF300, and will also have lesser camera and display specs. It's biggest saving grace, though, might be that its battery life is rated for 12 hours, which, if accurate, would trump almost everything else in its size and price range. Though we're not normally inclined to make a recommendation based purely on benchmarks, it seems obvious that the TF300's quad-core chip provides a real advantage in terms of gaming, longevity and overall speed. Factor in the decent camera, slightly more polished design, clean Android experience, nice app selection and the useful dock, and you've once again got yourself a good deal. Wrap-up Though the TF300's price is fairly low, there thankfully isn't that big of a catch. Even as more mid-range, 10-inch Android tablets start hitting the market, the second-gen Transformer still feels like the best deal, with smooth, Tegra 3-powered gaming, good endurance and an understated design that calls to mind ASUS' other Transformer, the $500 Prime. Aside from the fact that the battery life isn't quite as epic as the Prime's, our most serious complaint has little to do with ASUS, and more with Android: even with a state-of-the-art chip running the latest version of the OS, the tablet occasionally hiccups when launching apps and resizing web pages. There's no reason for a product with such strong tech credentials to stumble over the mundane stuff. Still, the tablet is eminently usable, and ultimately a pleasure to live with. Moreover, the performance is a clear improvement over what you'll get from similarly priced 10-inch tabs, many of which run on last year's dual-core Tegra 2 chip. So if you feel at home in Android and have about $400 to spend, this, friends, is the tablet we recommend. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Huawei Ascend G312 (U8680) lands at FCC, unsurprisingly sports T-Mobile myTouch moniker Posted: 21 Apr 2012 10:21 PM PDT
It's far from a secret that T-Mobile has been cooking up its next myTouch handset with Huawei (also known as the Ascend G312), and now a phone bearing the same moniker has landed at the door of the FCC. According to the label location diagrams, it plays nice with HSPA, UMTS, GPRS, GSM and Edge, but there's no indication of whether this Huawei U8680 is the QWERTY variant we spotted at the company's headquarters. If you'll recall, Huawei has this 4-inch (WVGA) device pegged to ship with Android Ice Cream Sandwich, running atop a 1.4GHz Qualcomm MSM8255T SoC with 1GB of RAM that's supplemented by 4GB of on-board storage. Of course, this doesn't leave us with any more information about when T-Mobile will officially debut this next-gen myTouch, but for now, you can can view the currently available FCC documents at the source link below. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Ask Engadget: best sub-$150 mechanical keyboard? Posted: 21 Apr 2012 08:20 PM PDT
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget inquiry is coming to us from Andrew, who wants to get a proper keyboard, for doing serious business on. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com.
No "thank you?" Man, the kids of today. Anyway, it's a weird coincidence because we've also been pondering swapping out our chiclet daily-driver for something more serious. We played with Matias' One at CES, while Andrew himself has one eye on the Razer Blackwidow or the Das Model S Pro / Stealth. But that's us, what we want to know is what y'all out there are using when it comes to properly made keyboards -- stick your comments below and let's get this doing done. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Google pushes IMM76I ICS build to HSPA+ Galaxy Nexus, reportedly quells connectivity woes Posted: 21 Apr 2012 07:15 PM PDT
If you've been facing signal issues with your HSPA+ Galaxy Nexus since that recent Android 4.0.4 update, you'll be happy to know that Google's apparently readied a minor update that might help. A small amount of owners have noticed a new build of Android 4.0.4, listed as build IMM76I, showing up on their devices. As The Verge notes, Google hasn't publicly come out with what's been changed from the previous IMM76D build, but many folks over on the forums at XDA-Developers and Android Central have noticed that their handsets' cellular connectivity has improved. Furthermore, Android Central says that devices set to auto brightness aren't experiencing lag on the lock screen as some have had issue with. Mum's the word on when the update will hit every HSPA+ Galaxy Nexus, but move your cursor over to links below for all the information that's currently available. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Mobile Miscellany: week of April 16th, 2012 Posted: 21 Apr 2012 05:45 PM PDT
Not all mobile news is destined for the front page, but if you're like us and really want to know what's going on, then you've come to the right place. This past week, Verizon announced that its LTE service now covers two-thirds of the US population, and T-Mobile dropped its 'nice girl' image in attempt to position its HSPA+ network as a viable competitor to LTE. These stories and more await after the break. So buy the ticket and take the ride as we explore the "best of the rest" for this week of April 16th, 2012. Verizon Wireless 4G LTE now reaches two-thirds of US population Verizon has been rather persistent in its LTE rollout, and with its latest round of expansion -- which covers 15 states, and extends to both metropolitan and rural areas -- Big Red can now claim that its 4G service now reaches more than 66 percent of Americans. While we're unable to publish the full list of new areas, you can find a complete rundown with the following links. [Droid Life, Verizon Wireless] T-Mobile looks to bring free international calls to its Bobsled VOIP service If you've yet to test drive T-Mobile's Bobsled service, might the promise of free international calls to 45 countries change your mind? The Bobsled app has been available to Android and iOS users since last October, but it's about to become a very big deal. While nothing is official, as the international service remains in testing phase, users will now find the ability to place free calls to the following countries: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Cambodia, Canada, Chile, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, Czech Republic, Finland, France, Georgia, Greece, Guadeloupe, Guam, Hong Kong, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Kenya, S. Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Paraguay, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Russian Federation, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Taiwan, Thailand, United Kingdom, United States, Uzbekistan, Venezuela and Vietnam. [Compixels] Samsung Galaxy Rugby arrives at Rogers Rugged smartphones serve a rather niche segment of the marketplace, but really, who wouldn't want their handset to survive drops, spills or even a bout of intentional torture? The Samsung Galaxy Rugby is far from the perfect device, but it's easily the best in its class -- and now, it can be found at Rogers in Canada for just $50 on a three-year contract. It's still a bit of a stinker in the specs department, though, with an 800MHz CPU, a 3.7-inch HVGA display and a 3MP camera. [MobileSyrup] Verizon Wireless plans to establish Windows Phone as the third smartphone ecosystem Take one look at Verizon's online store and you might get the impression that the carrier is done with Windows Phone. Not true, says the company's CFO, Fran Shammo. Like AT&T is currently doing with the Lumia 900, Shammo states that Verizon is gearing up to establish Microsoft's platform as the third viable smartphone ecosystem. According to Shammo, the big push will take place with the arrival of Windows Phone 8 devices, which Verizon will have on its shelves in time for the holiday season. [Phone Scoop] T-Mobile dumps the 'nice girl' image with a reset on its advertising campaign No more spring dresses and bubbly exuberance from T-Mobile's spokesperson -- now, she's pissed. The carrier has unveiled its new Alter Ego campaign, where it will more aggressively emphasize the speed of its HSPA+ network. Fitting of the change, T-Mobile's spokesperson will now appear clad in black leather jumpsuits (with magenta accents), as the carrier works to shed its meek image and maintain consumer interest in the wake of LTE expansion from the larger networks. [AllThingsD] BBM Music, BlackBerry Messenger and Travel receive updates The latest version of BBM Music has officially made its way out of the Beta Zone and is now available for all. It adds a new social feature with the option to review tracks in common with an individual before accepting a friend request, the ability to favorite particular songs and an intelligent shuffle mode. The updated version of BlackBerry Messenger comes with new animated avatars, a new method to send voice notes and improved contact search. Likewise, the latest version of BlackBerry Travel now features integration with Messenger, which allows you to easily share plans with with your BBM contacts. [CrackBerry 1, 2, 3] Other random tidbits
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| Youzee: Spain's streaming startup answer to Netflix Posted: 21 Apr 2012 04:34 PM PDT
A new streaming service has shed its beta cloak, only this one isn't made for U.S. eyes. Youzee, a Madrid-based start-up, aims to offer Spaniards the best of both pay models, offering up a monthly subscription service alongside separate à la carte pricing. According to the company's site, its catalog of films and TV shows will be made available in a range of dubbed and subtitled versions to suite language and viewing preferences. You'll have to pony up 6.99 Euros (about $9 USD) monthly for access to those selections, but for any titles -- new releases or otherwise -- that reside outside of its collection, there's a one-time fee required, ranging from either 2.99 Euros (about $4 USD) for 480p DVD-quality or 4.99 Euros (about $7 USD) for 720p HD. Plans are also on deck to grow the outfit's content library of paid content with an assortment of free exclusives. So, if you call the Iberian peninsula home and the return of the Bluths on Netflix just isn't enough to tide you over, well, now you have an alternative online video fix. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| HTC EVO Design 4G coming to Boost Mobile 'end of this quarter' Posted: 21 Apr 2012 03:21 PM PDT
Boost customers might soon be able to bite off another bit of Android, according to Pocket Now. It's reporting that the HTC Evo Design 4G will be landing on the prepay network before the end of this quarter. It was running Gingerbread when we first got our hands on it, but will apparently be landing with Ice Cream Sandwich squeezed into its 1.2GHz single-core configuration. It's been a while since a new smartphone was offered up to the Boost faithful, so when the EVO 4G turns up it should be king of the pile, though we're not sure if it'll be asking an equally regal ransom when it does so. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| First ASUS G55VW gaming laptop configuration spotted and priced Posted: 21 Apr 2012 01:37 PM PDT
ASUS's G-series has been warming the laps of gamers for a while, whether it's the smart G74 or the elder statesman G73JH. The newest splinter of the G-team, however, is the G55 line. Right now, it's the G55VW-DS71 that's just had its specifications splayed out for all to see. It'll be a quad-core i7-3610QM Ivy Bridge chip calling the shots, with a 2GB NVIDIA GTX 660M providing graphical backup. A solid 12GB of DDR3, 1,333MHz RAM and a 750GB HDD will come with the configuration mentioned here. There are two drive bays, though, so you can set it up to your liking, and higher spec versions of this 15.6" machine will be coming in the future. It's only up for pre-order at the moment, but $1,475 will make sure it finds its way to you once released, hopefully around the end of this month -- the Intel gods willing. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Cablevision's Optimum Online live TV streaming now available on Windows and Mac Posted: 21 Apr 2012 11:14 AM PDT
It's been a little over a year since Cablevision launched Optimum for iPad with live streaming of all of its channels to the tablet, and now subscribers can experience the same thing on their computer with the Optimum for Laptops app. Available for Mac or PC it has a brand new interface and searchable guide, as well as the ability to manage DVR recordings and change the channel on cable boxes in the house. According to Cablevision its iOS app has been downloaded over a million times, we'll see how popular this followup is -- and if it spurs any new lawsuits from channel owners. CABLEVISION'S OPTIMUM APP ARRIVES ON THE LAPTOP | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Sprint discontinues HTC EVO 3D online, limited quantities remain at retail stores Posted: 21 Apr 2012 08:53 AM PDT
It's not like we're gonna argue with Sprint's rationale, but the EVO 3D has met its end at the Now Network. Visitors to the carrier's online store will notice that the gee-whiz smartphone is no longer available for sale, and Sprint reps have confirmed to us that it's not coming back. Those who insist on owning an EVO 3D will be glad to know that the handset is still available at Sprint's retail outlets, but according to the carrier, quantities are rather limited. Given a phone that debuted less than a year ago, its abrupt and unceremonious demise comes as a bit of a shock, but with the mighty EVO 4G LTE on the horizon, we can't blame the carrier one bit. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Study shows more people watch TV on tablets than computers, still nothing on Posted: 21 Apr 2012 06:29 AM PDT
Is your notebook still your preferred second TV? Well, it seems you're now in the minority. The hip new way of consuming the drug of the nation -- after the 'ole tube itself -- is on a tablet, according to a recent Viacom study. Over 2,500 people were polled nationwide, and the results show a shift away from computers and smartphones to slates. Tabs made up 15 percent of full-length TV show viewings, with the increase of streaming services and companion apps being cited as contributing factors to the trend. We don't know what the fuss is about, we watch all our telly on a tablet. Tablets Are Leading Alternative For Full-Length TV Show Viewing After Television, According to Viacom's "Tapping Into Tabletomics" Study NEW YORK, April 17, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Tablet devices have emerged as the leading second-screen alternative to television for viewing full-length episodes, according to "Tapping Into Tabletomics," a new study released today by Viacom (NASDAQ: VIA, VIAB). The new research examines consumer behavior and emotions around the tablet user-experience, with a focus on tablets as TV and the dual-screen experience. (Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110811/NY51392LOGO) Drawing on a national online survey of more than 2,500 people ages 8-54 as well as qualitative, in-depth interviews with dedicated tablet users in New York and Los Angeles, "Tapping into Tabletomics" found that, in just a few years, tablets have risen to second-screen prominence for full-length TV (FLTV) show viewing, ahead of computers. Out of total time spent watching FLTV shows, 15% of viewing occurs on tablets. Since tablets came into play, FLTV show viewing on desktops and smartphones has declined the most. Top genres viewed on tablets - comedy and music - align more with computers than the TV. Reality is the top genre viewed on television, followed by drama, science fiction and sports. MSO app users, Netflixers, Apple TV owners, AirPlay users and Whispersync users are very aggressive tablet users. These services lead to significantly higher levels of FLTV show watching on tablets. Among tablet owners who subscribe to a cable company that offers streaming apps, about half report downloading the app. These MSO app users spend 20% more time on their tablet than non-MSO app users. The Dual-Screen Experience While watching television, many respondents use tablets to multitask or as a complementary experience via apps like MTV's WatchWith and VH1's Co-Star, designed as add-ons, rather than distractions, to the television screen. "Our audiences are some of the most deeply engaged and active across social platforms," said Colleen Fahey Rush, Executive Vice President and Chief Research Officer, Viacom Media Networks. "Co-viewing apps create more meaningful ways to reach them and represent an entirely new level of engagement for fans of our content." Overall, television continues to provide the best experience. When asked about everything from sound/picture quality to watching current episodes to ease-of-use, the TV experience won on every dimension. One participant said: "If I'm looking forward to watching a sporting event or going to watch my favorite TV show, I still watch them on TV because it's just not the same. The iPad is too small to watch something like that." | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Polaris' pool-cleaning robots get updated with added intelligence, four-wheel drive Posted: 21 Apr 2012 04:21 AM PDT
It's been almost exactly a year since Zodiac Pool Systems last expanded its line of Polaris-branded pool-cleaning robots, and it's now back with two more additions that fill out the top and bottom end of its lineup. That includes the company's most advanced robot to date, the $1499 Polaris 9400 Sport (pictured above), which adds four-wheel drive for the first time, as well as the company's new accelerometer-enhanced ActivMotion Sensor technology -- something Polaris says allows the robot to continually sense where it is in the pool and optimize its cleaning action accordingly. The 9100 Sport, on the other hand, gets neither of those new additions, but it'll "only" set you back $799, and will still clean pools up to 40 feet long in about two hours. You can get a closer look at those, as well as the company's existing offerings, at the source link below. Polaris® Expands Robotic Pool Cleaning Line, Introduces Two New Models To Popular Sport Robotic Platform For 2012 SAN DIEGO, April 19, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Zodiac Pool Systems, Inc. is introducing two new models, the Polaris 9400 Sport and Polaris 9100 Sport, to its Polaris advanced Sport Robotic pool cleaner line for the 2012 pool season. The two new models complement the company's popular Polaris 9300 Sport and 9300xi Sport models, and share the platform's patented Vortex Vacuum technology. Polaris has launched a newly revised website to highlight the full family of robotic cleaners as well as its other products: http://www.polarispool.com/ The two new models represent an economical robot in the 9100 Sport and a top-of-the-line 9400 Sport robot that adds ActivMotion Sensor™ intelligence technology. Both cleaners capture more than four times the debris of other cleaners and cost just pennies a day to operate, reducing energy consumption up to 90 percent. The award-winning and sleek Sport Robotic line of cleaners is designed after the look of high-styled sports cars. The ActivMotion Sensor in the 9400 uses an accelerometer, much like those used in electronic stability control systems in cars, or in smart phone and tablet devices to align the screen vertically or horizontally depending on the angle in which the device is held; the accelerometer automatically senses cleaner position. It measures force to determine 3-dimensional position, such as deep, shallow, horizontal or vertical, and adapts the pool cleaner for maximum cleaning action. The technology also reduces cord tangling and optimizes the pool cleaning path, even vacuuming in reverse down pool walls, resulting in 20 percent faster cleaning. According to Kevin Braidic, Zodiac's director of product development, the Polaris 9400 Sport is the most advanced cleaner on the market. "The 9400 Sport continually senses where it is in the pool, optimizing the operation and cleaning action. Pre-programmed cleaning cycles allow consumers to choose between floor-only cleaning or floor, wall and waterline cleaning, a necessary chore that many pool owners just don't want to do manually. And when out of the water, it shuts itself down, making it very safe," says Braidic. "Our innovation team used the newest technology available, making cleaning the pool so easy and energy-efficient that it is no longer any deterrent to owning a pool." The Polaris 9400 Sport Robot retails for $1499. Its features include: 4-wheel drive technology to provide impressive maneuverability over steps and obstacles The Polaris 9100 Sport robot is a good economical option as a robot that retails for $799, and is appropriate for pools up to 40 feet long. It has a 2-hour cleaning cycle, is lighter weight, and is especially good at cleaning the pool floor and cove. Features shared by both the Polaris 9400 Sport and the Polaris 9100 Sport, as well as the Polaris 9300 and 9300xi Sport models, are: Patented Vortex Vacuum technology that maximizes vacuum power without losing suction and captures more debris The Polaris Sport Robotic platform cleaners go into the pool only when cleaning is required as they are not attached to a stationary water outlet; therefore, pool owners can use the robotic cleaners in any existing pool. Zodiac is offering a $150 consumer rebate on the 9400 Sport model and a $50 consumer rebate on the 9100 Sport for purchases made in the U.S. April 1 through Sept. 3, 2012. About Zodiac Pool Systems, Inc. Zodiac Pool Systems, Inc., a subsidiary of Zodiac Marine & Pool, S.A.S., is a global leader in swimming pool and spa products and services. The company's comprehensive product lines are marketed under the leading brand names of Zodiac®, Polaris®, Jandy® Pro Series, Nature2®, and Cover-Pools®. Zodiac is the leading provider of premium, innovative pool and spa products and is committed to designing and producing the most energy efficient, earth-friendly pool products and systems available. Polaris cleaners are the number one recognized brand of pool cleaners in the swimming pool industry and have enjoyed more than 40 years as the top selling pressure pool cleaner. The new robotics from Polaris display the same high quality engineering, rugged construction and reliability that pool owners have come to expect from the brand. To learn more about Zodiac, visit www.zodiacpoolsystems.com or call 800-822-7933. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| RedSn0w updated for Mac and Windows: adds Corona A5 jailbreak, other tools Posted: 21 Apr 2012 03:12 AM PDT
What better way to finish off your night than by updating your favorite jailbreaking tool? Now, you'll be able to do just that after the whiz-kids from the iPhone Dev-Team have pushed out a new copy of their famed RedSn0w application. In what's perhaps the biggest inclusion, version 0.9.10b7 now adds implementation of that untethered Corona jailbreak for A5 devices, making it easier for the iOS 5.0.1 crowd to do bits like reinstalling the tweaked software. In addition, the app's now capable of grabbing SHSH blobs (you know, those tiny files that grant your phone freedom) straight from Cydia, while also giving users the ability to see if their slab carries a vulnerable bootloader or if it's exploitable. RedSn0w 0.9.10b7 is out now for both Windows and Mac, and you can grab it at the source link below. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Facebook flips the switch on its North Carolina data center, cooled with balmy mountain air Posted: 21 Apr 2012 12:05 AM PDT
Since breaking ground in Western North Carolina some 16 months ago, Facebook has been running at full speed to get its newest data center online. This week, Zuckerberg & Co. flipped the switch. The new facility, located in Forest City, touts the "first major deployment" of the outfit's Open Compute Project web servers and will be the first "live test" of the OPC's outdoor air-cooling design. It tends to get pretty warm around those parts and humidity levels are a bit outside of ideal data center conditions. The Carolina facility will mirror the projected power utilization effectiveness (PUE) of FB's Oregon data center at just a smidge above 1 – somewhere between 1.06 and 1.08 to be exact. In other words, this means the ratio of power used by the structure and the actual power sent to the hardware is almost perfect with minimal energy loss. No matter, it'll still be using plenty of power. A second identical building is slated to open on the site later this year, but for now, hit the source link for a bit more info on the initial launch.
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| 3DS firmware update promises folders, less cluttered home screens on April 25th Posted: 20 Apr 2012 09:52 PM PDT
Are all those ambassador games crowding your 3DS' home screen? Sit tight, Nintendo's got a fix. During the outfit's Nintendo Direct conference livestream, head honcho Satoru Iwata announced that folder organization is coming to the 3DS. Fastidiously organized gamers can expect the firmware update to land on April 25th, bringing with it the joy of creating directories, stuffing them with up to 60 items and ascribing them fitting names. Iwata also detailed a handful of upcoming titles, including New Super Mario Bros. 2 and Tobidase Doubutsu no Mori (or, "Leap out Animal Crossing") for the 3DS and a Kirby compilation for the Wii. Follow the source link below for a full playback of Iwata's spiel, or check out Joystiq's coverage of the event for more details.
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| HTC talks smartphone design: from inception to final product Posted: 20 Apr 2012 08:49 PM PDT
At the Frequencies media summit in Seattle over the last two days, HTC walked us through the fine details on how its smartphones are developed, going from the boring rectangular ABS block to the more refined plastic mockups that are presented to carriers and focus groups -- the findings of which then shape the final product. Sadly, we weren't allowed to take photos of the One X mockups that were shown to us, but do read on to learn the general process of how an HTC phone goes from inception to the final product. An HTC phone starts out somewhere between four months and a year before reaching to the ABS block mockup stage. During this time engineers figure out the next best way to put the phone together, as well as finding the best weight and the best components for certain models, so that the actual size of them feel good in our hands. In the US, HTC talks to carriers to find out what technologies (such as chipsets, displays and radios) they want to enable, as well as learning what size, appearance, feeling and functions their customers are asking for. HTC has even conducted smartphone deprivation studies to see what features the participants missed the most: phones were taken away for two weeks, and during the period people had to document what they missed about their smartphones, as well as noting whether they had found other ways to do what they'd normally do with their phones. When asked about whether we will see the QWERTY keyboard in future HTC devices, design firm One & Co's Claude Zellweger didn't seem to be a fan:
But there's still hope. In response to whether there's still room for QWERTY keyboards in HTC's lineup, Claude said his team's just waiting:
We also discussed battery life and competing phones that come with physically larger batteries (especially the Droid Razr Maxx), but Vice President of Phone Strategy Bjorn Kilburn claims that for most customers going into the shops, power consumption is not on the top of their lists. In fact, HTC claimed it tested a large battery concept with selected customers and carriers last year, but it didn't sell. It turns out people just prefer thinner phones (or at least initially they do), and therefore HTC chose to take a holistic approach to improving battery life through power management optimization, choice of power density, choice of voltage and many more. HTC's preference to wired charging over the comparatively slower wireless charging also helps reduce phone downtime, of course. With the sets of basic specifications and features set in stone, HTC's engineers can then offer the right phone sizes that meet the carriers' requirements, as well as showing a relatively bland rectangular ABS block as an indication on how much space is needed to pack all the components. From then onwards, the designers join in and work with the carriers to boil down to a few phone ideas, the best of which are then presented to focus groups in the form of refined mockups. In these sessions, HTC doesn't just listen to what the participants want more or less of, but it mainly observes what people do with the mockups in their hands, as well as studying their emotional feedback. By the way, on average these mockups cost about $3,000 to $5,000 per unit, and to get one phone arranged in the US, HTC could easily accumulate up to $50,000 worth of mockups for that one phone alone! Sometimes HTC also throws in some super bright colors to get some feedback from focus groups, and one time it even had a "you've got to be joking" reaction from carriers over a recent pink prototype. Claude didn't outright dismiss the color, but he's not keen on the idea of a pink One X:
We as customers don't see that many color options from HTC, anyway -- it's mainly black, gray and white these days. There are a few reasons for this: for starters, there are certain colors that HTC has to avoid, particularly those that are associated with US carrier loyalty -- blue to AT&T, red to Verizon and yellow to Sprint. Obviously, it'd be difficult to convince the carriers to pick up a device that comes in a competitor's color; though there are certain exceptions, like the red highlight on the primarily-black EVO 4G LTE on Sprint. Another exception is the purple MyTouch 4G on T-Mobile, which was the first color that sold out. HTC's Product Strategy Manager Eric Lin personally thinks that purple and cyan are two colors that do really well, especially them being popular accent colors on sneakers from the more stylish brands; but these are only for people who are in touch with style enough, and there's not that many people. In response to a question on HTC seemingly favoring white devices over time, Eric pointed out that with more men owning smartphones than women, the color really helps open up smartphones to women, even if the phones are larger than what the women would normally consider (like the One S vs the One X, as he observed in a focus group -- many women eventually chose the latter for the white option). Of course, the purple Rhyme was a different example but with a similar goal -- it was a special project where Verizon wanted to see if it could make a phone that'd get away from the hyper-masculine Droid aura, and the color was chosen through studies. Can't say that was a successful attempt, though. Then there's the personal image: HTC suggests that a lot of people want their phones to be their symbol of success, which means the phones themselves need a professional look, so glossiness and bright colors aren't for everyone. However, as you may have seen in our hands-on already, HTC's colorful cases for the One X should take care of some of the minority while also letting the majority protect their phones. So these are some the key points in the long process of design development of an HTC phone, where engineers and designers push each other to uncomfortable realm, before eventually delivering the near-final product to Peter Chou for his ultimate test on the size, feel in hand, feel in pocket and even the ringtones. If you need more convincing on how much of a hands-on CEO Mr. Chou is, here's some video proof starring him and Chairwoman Cher Wang -- just go ahead and skip to 1:47:
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| Google app review video shows Share to 'Drive' option Posted: 20 Apr 2012 08:01 PM PDT
To close out each week, the Android Developer Relations team hosts a Friday App Review video. This Friday, however, the focus is far from whatever apps are being showcased (psst... it's Handy Scanner); instead, all eyes are on the Share to 'Drive' option, seen just below the 'Bluetooth' logo in the screen capture above. It's shown at the 32:53 mark in the video just after the break, and while this certainly isn't confirmation that Goog's own cloud storage service will be hitting the masses soon, it's one of the more tangible pieces of evidence that Google Drive is at least a real initiative. Come to think of it, we've got a couple of passes to Google I/O 2012, which just so happens to get going in around two months. Anyone else feeling that tug of puzzle pieces coming together? | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Visualized: Shopping bag crash helmet protects your head, not your image (video) Posted: 20 Apr 2012 06:36 PM PDT
The Grappa is a tote-style shopping bag that you can wear on your head (once it's empty) during a natural disaster. It's less insane than it sounds, because the base of the bag is made from the same EPS foam found in hard-hats, and is rated to cope with falling debris at least as well as similar emergency hoods already on the market. Constructed with the cheapest materials possible, each unit costs around 1,000 Yen ($12) with the hope that companies will buy them, slap a logo on the side and hand them out as a promotional tool that could save plenty of lives. Bet you feel guilty for laughing at the picture now, don't you? [Thanks, Don] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Amazon Germany weighs in on Samsung Galaxy S III with 4.7-inch screen and 12 megapixel camera Posted: 20 Apr 2012 05:41 PM PDT
May 3rd is no doubt going to be a monumental day for Samsung, but April 20th is certainly turning out to be quite memorable for potential specs of the Galaxy S III. Not only did we happen to come across a purported leak of the device itself, which suggested the handset would pack a 4.6-inch display and an 8 megapixel camera, but now a placeholder has popped up on Amazon's German site with a few contrasting specifications -- most notably, a 4.7-inch screen and a 12 megapixel camera. We're still a bit skeptical, because this is far from official, but the fact that the smartphone is shipped and sold by Amazon itself adds a wee bit of credence to the product listing. Only time will tell which set of specs -- if any -- are the correct ones, but the build-up to the Galaxy S III just got a whole lot more interesting. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| WPC updates Qi standard, increases inductive charging distance to 40mm Posted: 20 Apr 2012 05:18 PM PDT
It seems that Power Matt just got a bit more, er, powerful. The Wireless Power Consortium announced today that it's improved the Qi inductive-charging standard to "include longer range magnetic resonance wireless charging." Effectively, this means charging stations that are up to spec will be able to transmit up to 5 watts of power from distances of 40mm (up from 5mm, previously) to Qi-enabled devices. The WPC says it's ideal for pushing power through the likes tables and counter tops, and that it currently has 12 types of compatible transmitters ready for action. All in all, it certainly seems like a solid step for finally getting rid of all that cable clutter at your workstation -- especially if it'll rid users of those less-than-pretty looking charging bases. Maybe a last-minute add-on to your Uppleva, IKEA? Wireless Power Consortium Extends Qi Standard to Include Longer Range Magnetic Resonance Wireless Charging TAIPEI, Taiwan, April 20, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- The Wireless Power Consortium today announced that the Qi open wireless charging standard is capable of providing full support and compatibility for longer-distance magnetic resonance technologies. Qi is the global standard for wireless power and charging. Devices are charged just by placing them on, or near, any Qi-enabled surface. Any Qi-enabled device works with any Qi charger, regardless of brand or manufacturer, making charging simple and convenient. Qi is supported by a quickly expanding list of over 100 industry-leading companies and is increasingly integrated into mobile phones, accessories, and public spaces in the US, Japan, China, and Europe. The Qi standard is a fully open and flexible platform, and as it evolves, the WPC regularly approves new transmitter designs proposed by its members. The latest addition is a transmitter design that uses magnetic resonance technology. It increases the distance devices up to 5 Watts can be charged, from 5mm to 40mm, while remaining fully Qi compatible. This transmission distance is suitable for charging through most tables and counter tops. "The Qi standard continues to quickly grow and evolve as more transmitters and technologies become part of the specification," said WPC Chairman Menno Treffers. "Qi is backed by over 100 companies and the standard's flexibility allows them to offer a wide range of products with compelling features and price points. Ultimately, the consumer wins with a broad product ecosystem that's all seamlessly compatible." Wireless charging stations such as those that can be built into furniture, tabletops, cars, or found in charging pads, typically use magnetic induction or magnetic resonance transmitters to send power to the portable devices they're charging. Having the flexibility to choose from multiple transmitter designs allows companies to offer a wide range of Qi product types in consumer electronics, home appliances, furniture, automotive and other markets. These products can then be further differentiated by innovative design, components, materials, functionality, and value. Any Qi-enabled charger works with any Qi-enabled device, no matter what transmitter type. Twelve new transmitter designs are approved in the specification, including those offering more freedom in device placement, magnetic and non-magnetic device alignment, and differing power options, such as USB. Many other designs are under review, with plans for additional spatial freedom and distances, increased power levels and more options to charge multiple devices at one time. Qi has seen rapid adoption and momentum with deep industry support, significant new product launches, and global supply chain growth. The WPC recently displayed more than 80 new Qi products and prototypes at the 2012 Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain. Find more information about Qi and the Wireless Power Consortium at: www.wirelesspowerconsortium.com. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 500px launches Android app, adds iPad update on the side Posted: 20 Apr 2012 04:31 PM PDT
Confined to the imposing shadow of a certain filter-heavy Facebook purchase, 500px is another photo-sharing network making the eco-system leap to Android. 500px is built around collections of high-quality images that are automatically updated and streamed, with a full search option to seek out specific images. Alongside the ability to share photos on the likes of Twitter and Facebook, professionals can attempt to make their fortune by selling their images through the app and companion website. If you're just there for the sumptuous landscapes and close-ups, however, you can collate slideshows from photostreams and build up your own collection of favorite images. 500px has unleashed an update to its iPad version at the same time, cranking up the resolution to make the most of the new retina display and adding the ability to download full-size HD versions of your purchased photos. Anyone concerned with the little ones perusing some of the more risqué images can also breathe a sigh of relief -- 500px has added an improved NSFW filter. If you're overwhelmed with Instagram's new influx of enthusiastic patrons, you can try 500px's slightly different approach to photo sharing at the download links below. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Sifteo and Surface team up for magical marriage of meaninglessness Posted: 20 Apr 2012 03:44 PM PDT
Sifteo and Surface are definitely two of the cooler, but more useless gadgets we've had the pleasure of handling over the years. So, what happens when you get these questionably useful toys (both literally and figuratively) together? Well, a whole lot of nothing particularly important. By combining the proximity sensors on the Cubes with the object recognition of the SUR40 the devs were able to whip up a simple game that has you recreating patterns of colored cubes. Sound a little dull? We won't lie, it's not the most thrilling thing on Earth, but there's a video of it none-the-less awaiting you after the break. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Google Sync for BlackBerry swept away in spring cleaning Posted: 20 Apr 2012 03:12 PM PDT
It's springtime, and you know what that means for Google: out with the old and in with the new. Unfortunately, many BlackBerry fans might not like how Google's rearranging the furniture. During its routine tradition, the company announced that Google Sync for the BlackBerry will no longer be available for download as of June 1st. Put simply, the company identified its app as redundant, as RIM provides the same contact and calendar sync services to its customers with native software. Also in the spirit of spring cleaning, Google is encouraging users to uninstall the Sync app and properly configure their BlackBerry handsets to take advantage of these services. Fortunately, those content to keep with the status quo will be glad to know that Google Sync will continue to function properly -- so even if you're feeling lazy on this fine day, it's all good. Those with motivation, however, will find instructions of how to make the switch in the source below. [Spring cleaning photo via Shutterstock] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ASUS Transformer Prime GPS Extension Kit hands-on Posted: 20 Apr 2012 02:45 PM PDT
Software updates can only get you so far, and in the case of ASUS' Transformer Prime, they didn't even get it down the street. The Taiwanese tablet has been fighting satellite blindness since its inception -- it was only a matter of time before the Tegra 3 slab caved in and got a prescription. The Transformer Prime GPS Extension Kit was quietly announced on ASUS's member site, a freebie Prime owners could snag for registering their slates. The accessory's promised mid-april shipping date arrived, and so did the kit: read on to see what our newly equipped tablet could see.
The entire "extension kit" consists only of a single dongle that attaches to the tablet's south edge, mimicking the shape of the connector on the Prime's keyboard dock. It isn't a "flush fit" with the units edge, however, as the kit's application page suggested -- though it certainly performs well. Visible space hardware went from 0 to 16 within seconds of attaching the extension kit, instantly making the Prime a viable navigation tool. We did encounter a snag using it however, our tablet would randomly reboot every few minutes while the dongle was attached, though a sticker on the kit's front implores users to update their slate before use. Our tablet is up to date, of course, but we wouldn't be surprised to see a compatibility fix in the coming weeks. Despite matching our Prime's color profile, the dongle is a little on the ugly side, facing its screws towards the user, rather than hiding them on the tablet's back. Hiccups and eyesores aside, the attachment works, plain and simple. It isn't as elegant of a solution as we might as hoped, but at least it's free. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| The Engadget Show is live, here at 6:00PM ET! Posted: 20 Apr 2012 02:30 PM PDT  We've got a very special episode of the Engadget Show coming at you tonight! We took our film crew to Asia this time out, to check out the markets of Taipei, Hong Kong and Shenzhen. We'll also be speaking with top reps from Huawei and ASUS on our trip, plus bringing you the latest and greatest gadgets, surprises, a performance by Brooklyn's Suckers and a whole bunch more. Keep your browsers locked to this spot! | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Hands-on with HTC's colorful One X cases Posted: 20 Apr 2012 02:23 PM PDT
We just got our hands on a couple of new cases that HTC's making specifically for its One X flagship. The colorful accessories -- which the company showcased at its Frequencies media event in Seattle -- are made of a flexible PTFE-like (polytetrafluoroethylene) material and are designed to both protect and enhance the appearance of the device. Different designs will be available, but we only got to see the one. Sadly, we have no info on pricing or availability at this time. Take a look at our gallery below. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Nokia's White Lumia 900 reportedly available now at AT&T stores Posted: 20 Apr 2012 02:15 PM PDT
We'd previously heard AT&T's White Lumia 900 was slated for a release on April 22nd, but photos tweeted by the outfit's Chris Weber would suggest the Mango device is up for grabs now. By the looks of it, at least a pair of customers were able to walk into a Rethink Possible shop and grab a pale piece of the Lumia pie for themselves. Naturally, AT&T's site still doesn't have the Windows Phone handset listed, while the Cyan flavor remains out of stock. Perhaps, now it's a good time to head to your local AT&T store and cough up those 99 bucks, or get it gratis through tomorrow. Be sure to drop us a line if you were able to take one of Nokia's own unicorns home with you. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| HTC One X available today on Rogers for $170 with a three-year contract Posted: 20 Apr 2012 02:01 PM PDT
We know Yanks using AT&T's network will be getting their own flavor of the HTC One X early next month, thus it's only appropriate for the neighbors up north to get a taste of the same smartphone medicine. Thanks to Rogers, those of you in Canada will be able to get your hands on this Sense 4, ICS-filled handset as soon as today. Rogers says HTC's One kin is coming as an exclusive to its shop, currently listing it for $169.99 on "select" three-year deals or $624.99 without any attachments. Keep in mind, this specific model's loaded with the Snapdragon S4 chip, which is slightly different than the One we reviewed a few weeks back. However, if all those cores don't make a difference to you, then all that's left to do is head to the source below and pull the trigger. [Thanks, Sean] HTC One X, Canada's first smartphone with Beats Audio™, available exclusively from Rogers on April 20 HTC One X is built to stun with amazing camera, authentic sound and 4G LTE TORONTO, April 20, 2012 /CNW/ - HTC, a global designer of smartphones, and Rogers, Canada's largest provider of wireless voice and data services, today announced the new HTC One X smartphone is now available in Canada running on Canada's fastest and largest1 LTE network. Recently revealed to high acclaim at Mobile World Congress, the HTC One X is the first smartphone in the HTC One series to arrive in North America. The HTC One series represents the HTC's most premium mobile experience with a new level of iconic design, amazing camera and authentic sound experience. HTC One X integrates Android 4.0 (ICS) with HTC Sense 4, the new version of HTC's branded user experience that introduces HTC ImageSense, a new suite of camera and imaging features that set the device apart from other phones. With ImageSense, the HTC One X rivals traditional digital cameras with improvements to every part of the camera, including the lens, the sensor, and even integrating a new custom HTC ImageChip. "People take photos on their phone more than any activity other than making phone calls, as evidenced by half of the photos uploaded to Facebook last year coming from a mobile device," said Rick Babington, executive director, HTC Canada. "With the importance of photos in people's lives and the need for better quality audio on smartphones, HTC focused on creating a camera and audio experience that customers will love and use daily." To dramatically reduce the time it takes to capture important moments, the camera can be quickly launched from the home screen and the super-fast auto focus allows continuous shooting by simply holding the shutter button. The smartphone also enables full 1080P HD video recording with the ability to concurrently take still photo while recording video, as well as the ability to capture photos from previously recorded video. HTC One X provides an easy way to save and share photos and video with 25 gigabytes of free Dropbox space for two years. HTC also gives customers a new way to share any content on their phone through use of a new wireless Media Link HD accessory* with any TV brand that support HDMI. "We're excited to exclusively bring our customers the HTC One X and the premium mobile experience it brings as Canada's first smartphone with Beats Audio and the first of the HTC One series," says Raj Doshi, Senior Vice President, Products, Rogers Communications. "Operating on Canada's fastest and largest LTE network will allow customers a best-in-class audio and picture experience to upload images quickly, download albums and stream HD music videos, with virtually no delays or buffering." The HTC One X delivers improved audio through its authentic sound experience with Beats Audio technology, which provides a richer and more authentic sound experience whether consumers are watching movies, listening to music, or playing games. HTC One also makes it easy to get and listen to your music on your phone with the built-in HTC Sync Manager software that automatically installs to your computer when connected. Once connected, it is easy to transfer songs, artists and playlists from your music library. Available exclusively to Rogers customers, the HTC One X features a beautifully crafted polycarbonate unibody that has the ruggedness of metal but is super lightweight. With seamless construction, the unibody combines a unique high gloss 'piano' finish and a matte back. The HTC One X also has an amazing 4.7-inch, 720p HD screen crafted from contoured Corning™ Gorilla Glass with an LTE-enabled Qualcomm Snapdragon S4™ 1.5GHz dual-core processor, and is packed with an 1,800 mAh battery with software enhancements that improve battery performance to accommodate heavy mobile use. Availability The Rogers LTE network is only available in select Canadian cities. Visit www.rogers.com/coverage for details. *HTC Media Link HD sold separately. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Google+ expands SMS support to over 41 countries, lets you stay social over text Posted: 20 Apr 2012 01:32 PM PDT
On the off chance your cell phone is of the decidedly dumb variety, Mountain View's engineers have worked out an alternative solution to keep your Google + circles intersecting. Initially available only for the U.S. and Indian markets at the time of the social service's launch, the search giant's expanding the reach of its SMS feature to over 41 additional countries, giving users the option to post updates, as well as receive and reply to notifications via text. The feature isn't standard, so if you want to opt-in, you'll have to enable it in the settings menu first, provided your carrier is supported. Luddites that like to have their online cake and eat it too, might want to make sure they're packing an appropriately capacious mobile plan before those thumbs get to banging away. Of course, the rest of you modernists are more than welcome to join the party, but why would you? | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Posted: 20 Apr 2012 01:00 PM PDT
They said it wouldn't last. And they -- pundits, analysts, bloggers, GSM fanatics -- were right. WiMAX, that flavor of 4G found in the 2500MHz band, has proven to be more of a hindrance than help during Sprint's transition from underdog to reinvigorated titan. Then there are the kerfuffles it's endured standing on the sidelines -- namely, watching one-time LTE partner LightSquared squander its regulatory good graces. Beleaguered would be putting it mildly; Sprint faces a treacherous climb uphill to the mobile Olympus where Verizon, AT&T and now-spectrum-rich T-Mobile sit -- after all, it's hard to change the tide of public perception, overcome the limitations of a dreadful 3G CDMA network and move away from weak third-party 4G signals. Yet, with all of those negatives working against it, a planned rollover to LTE technology might just be the panacea Sprint has so badly needed. Right now, at least, a wish and a hope are all Sprint can dole out to existing subscribers toying with the idea of switching carriers. Its nascent LTE network, currently in testing across six US cities, hasn't been cleared for launch, which makes its first 4G handset, the Viper 4G LTE, a dress rehearsal of sorts. And what a low-key affair it is: no cutting-edge aesthetics or kickstand here, just mid-range specs and a humble design made from recycled materials. But for anyone itching to surf those faster waves, LG's dual-core, NFC-enabled workhorse could be a tempting buy when it goes on sale Sunday for $100 (with a two-year contract). So will the dangling carrot of faster 4G persuade consumers to choose this over all those other mid-tier Android phones? Let's find out. Hardware
Almost every time we've handed someone the Viper, we've been greeted with initial recoil, followed by resigned dismay. It makes you wonder if LG put this phone in front of a focus group before sending it along to retail shelves. At 0.46 inches thick, it certainly cuts a striking figure, just not in the way most consumers would want. Had the Viper been put on a diet, it could've approached decently likable status. Instead, this clunker is saddled with a chassis so engorged that you'd expect Sprint to bundle it with a mini in-home 4G LTE cell tower just to accommodate its capaciousness. Will that matter to users scraping by on their purse strings, eager to experience speeds similar to what AT&T and Big Red are offering? Not likely, to be totally honest. The faux-metal brushed casing (it's actually 50 percent recycled plastic) is home to LG's logo and a 5-megapixel module with a single LED flash. That chintzy back curves up to the screen where it's met by a silvery border. The 3.5mm headphone jack and power button sit on the top edge, while the volume rocker and micro-USB socket reside on the left -- an arrangement that frees up the remaining real estate, giving the phone a somewhat sterile feel. Peel off the casing and you'll find an NFC chip embedded in the shell, as well as a 1,700mAh Li-ion battery and microSD slot, which comes stuffed with a complimentary 4GB card. Shrouded in a black bezel is that 4-inch (800 x 400) NOVA display, flanked by a Sprint logo, VGA camera, metallic-trimmed earpiece and four capacitive Android buttons. Curiously, those navigation keys don't stay lit for very long, so you'll have to become quite familiar with their layout if you want to carry on with your daily routine, uninterrupted. For what it's worth, the screen is readable from a variety of angles, though you might encounter some distracting glare. And for the more accident-prone among Sprint's subscriber base, the Viper also benefits from a Gorilla Glass coating, keeping its face (mostly) free from scratches. Performance and battery life Stock Gingerbread on an Android handset was a much clamored-for breath of fresh air back in mid-2011. Now, it just smacks of something old, a second-hand cast-off lacking the refinement, visual uniformity and software optimization ushered in with Ice Cream Sandwich. Thankfully, an upgrade to Android 4.0 is on the way, though LG and Sprint aren't committing to an ETA. That's not to say the two companies haven't added their own spices to the UI -- some subtle signs of skinning (read: a different camera app and Sprint's ID packs) are present. Though our experience with the device was often pleasant, transitions can start to feel irksome after a while: instead of that swooping animation used for a switch between app drawer and homescreen, LG gussied the Viper up with a gradual dissolve that quickly escalates from elegant to annoying. Yes, it's a pretty embellishment, but it also contributes to a feeling of perceived slowness, even though the phone is actually the opposite: powered by a dual-core 1.2GHz MSM8660 chip and 1GB of RAM, this handset proved more than capable of quickly switching between apps. To give you a fair sense of how the Viper stacks up alongside similarly specced budget offerings, we pitted it against AT&T's LTE-enabled Pantech Burst and T-Mobile's Samsung Galaxy S Blaze 4G. All three run a version of Qualcomm's Snapdragon S3 SoC, although the Viper is clocked 300MHz lower than its dual-core 1.5GHz brethren, so bear that in mind as you look over those mixed benchmark results. From a raw processing standpoint, LG's handset takes a firm backseat to its contenders, coming in dead last in Quadrant, SunSpider and Linpack single- and multi-thread. Where graphical prowess is concerned, however, it charges to the head of the class, toppling the competition with consistently higher frame rates.
Even when limited to Sprint's 3G network, web surfing within the native Android browser is a relatively painless affair. Full desktop pages render in under 20 seconds and pinch-to-zoom performs admirably, tracking our finger movements with only a slight loss in detail. A product sold on the back of a phantom service? Please to meet the Viper's acquaintance. Without the support of Sprint's forthcoming 4G LTE network, LG's handset is forced to sit alongside the other 3G products currently staffing Sprint's CDMA lineup. So, while we'd like to tell you how it'll perform with that specific radio tuned into those next-gen waves, we can't -- there's no available signal here in New York City to test. What we can attest to is the longevity of its battery while in EVDO-only mode (you can enable or disable this in the settings menu). Under the stress of our standard rundown test the handset lasted four hours and 49 minutes. That's with brightness set to 50 percent, WiFi and GPS enabled, Twitter syncing at 15-minute intervals and one push email account active. With light to moderate use, you should be able to force the phone past the 24-hour mark, especially if you opt for more conservative settings. Network speeds GSM carriers here in the US have long trumped their CDMA counterparts in terms of speed. Even so, anyone familiar Sprint's 3G network should know not to expect fast rates, which is precisely why subscribers might be tempted by the promise of LTE. Sadly, without that live 4G network, the phone is at the mercy of Sprint's lackluster EVDO speeds. Around New York City, which is blanketed in 3G coverage, we saw download and upload speeds max out at 1.3Mbps and 0.90Mbps, respectively, with the average hovering between 0.15Mbps to 1.05Mbps down and 0.21Mbps to 0.86Mbps up. In areas where signal penetration was relatively weak, we waited with increasing aggravation for a 2MB app to download and install. Things could change mid-year when Sprint flips the switch on its repurposed radio waves, but for now consider yourself warned. Camera In a bid to seem different, LG's outfitted the Viper with its own camera app, putting a shred of distance between it and all those other Gingerbread handsets. Users won't be disappointed with the customizations on tap, nor will they be incredibly amazed -- it offers all of the features we've come to accept as standard on modern smartphones. While you don't have the option to tap-to-snap, you can highlight an area on screen to focus in on your intended subject. We do have one minor gripe with the app, and that's the lag between shots. On the whole, the handset's 5-megapixel module delivers image quality that's just above average. It's no replacement for a point-and-shoot, but pictures do display an impressive level of detail within a shallow depth of field. Still, those finer points become less distinct -- fuzzy, even -- as that distance widens. Color reproduction comes across somewhat muted even when the selected scenery is awash in direct sunlight. You'll still be able to manage a decent collection of photos, but for more exceptional imaging you'll need to seek more expensive pastures.
For a handset positioned toward the middle of the spectrum, the Viper possesses some features more in line with what you'd expect to find in premium phones -- namely, the option to record video in full 1080p HD. We tested out the device's recording capabilities and, as it performed with stills, so too with video. Once again, colors appear dull and the overall image quality is slightly grainy and shaky, though the decent frame rate means you won't see any stutters or drops in the footage. Audio playback was remarkably crisp and discernible, even when we camped out between two major lanes of traffic in downtown New York City. Software Not much new can be said about Android 2.3, especially when LG's opted for a mostly vanilla flavor. As we noted earlier, a much needed update to ICS is on the way (once it passes carrier testing), but for now, you'll have the pleasure of December 2010's best Google OS. Despite its staleness, the Viper does stand apart from other non-Nexus devices in one important way: NFC and Google Wallet. Not only does this device join the exclusive rank of other oft-used, tap-to-pay phones, but priced at an affordable $100 on contract, it could help get Mountain View's stalled payment system into wider acceptance. Vanilla Android is as vanilla Android does and crammed in alongside the usual suite of native Gapps are, of course, Sprint's own load of bloatware, taking the form of first and third party apps like NASCAR, Polaris Office, Sprint Music Plus, Sprint NBA Mobile, SprintZone, TeleNav and Sprint TV & Movies. Fans of pristine app drawers won't be able to uninstall this lot, but they will have the option to disable those offending applications. Wrap-up A 4G LTE phone for $100 on contract? It's hard to argue with that. No matter how unattractive the design or antiquated the software experience, the Viper is a wise buy for frugal consumers and Sprint loyalists alike. It's not as if the handset's internals aren't up to snuff -- they are -- and whenever Hesse & Co. manage to roll out that Ice Cream Sandwich update, the phone is sure to see some appreciable performance boosts. No, the only major con working against it is the abysmal real-world speeds delivered by the carrier's 3G CDMA network. If you've been wed to Sprint for some time and can deal with its current state of pokiness, then by all means, hang on, upgrade your device and stay tuned for that 4G coverage. For anyone else not tied to the carrier and looking to swap services, we'd stay focused on other, cheaper budget options running on live, widely deployed LTE networks. Verizon has a host of sub $99 handsets readily available like LG's Viper twinner, the Lucid for $80 or even Pantech's Breakout at $50 on contract, both running along what is arguably the strongest, next-gen network. Need to drop the price bar even lower? At just a penny with a two year agreement, bargain hunters will want to check out the Burst on AT&T -- a real no-brainer as purchases go. Clearly, then, you'll have no dearth of options, especially at this price point. The only question that remains is: Should you buy into what Sprint's not yet selling? | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Time Warner Cable brings ESPN, Fox and Turner sports live streaming to apps, website Posted: 20 Apr 2012 12:43 PM PDT
The newly-available-on-Android live streaming feature of Time Warner Cable's TWC TV app (and TWCTV.com website) has just gotten a major content upgrade, adding many national and regional sports feeds. It looks like ESPN, ESPN2, TNT, TBS, MLB Network, NBA TV and NHL Network are available in most regions, along with the applicable Fox RSNs. The full lineup of areas and channels is in the press release after the break. Of course, if you'd like to keep telling your significant other sports channels haven't been added yet and they will need to watch their reality show on the tablet while you use the big HDTV, then we can all just pretend this never happened. April 20, 2012 11:15 AM Eastern Daylight Time NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Time Warner Cable today announced the addition of national and regional sports networks to the TWC TV™ app for the iPad®, iPhone®, Android™ 4.0 smartphones and tablets, and TWCTV.com, the browser-based portal that can be accessed through PCs and Mac® computers. Customers in New York City, Dallas and Charlotte can now watch their favorite sports networks from their mobile device or computer anywhere inside the home. TWC TV™ is available at no additional cost to Time Warner Cable video customers at the Standard (Expanded Basic) level or higher. Programming lineup availability will vary by market. "We're also working hard with our industry partners to implement a broader technical solution that will enable us to deliver more sports programming on TWC TV™ in additional markets." The following networks now available are as follows: New York City (except for Hudson Valley) - ESPN, ESPN2, TNT, TBS, YES, SNY, MSG, MSG+, MLB Network, NBA TV, NHL Network Dallas - ESPN, ESPN2, TNT, TBS, Fox Sports Southwest, MLB Network, NBA TV, NHL Network Charlotte - ESPN, ESPN2, TNT, TBS, Fox Sports Carolinas, SportSouth, MLB Network, NBA TV, NHL Network "We're very pleased that we've been able to solve the technical issues surrounding blackouts in these three markets," said Mike Angus, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Video for Time Warner Cable. "We're also working hard with our industry partners to implement a broader technical solution that will enable us to deliver more sports programming on TWC TV™ in additional markets." Live TV requires that the customer have a broadband connection using either Road Runner or a TWC-managed service, or a Time Warner Cable-provided video only cable modem. Customers can download the mobile app from the App Store or Google® Play, launch it, log in and scroll through the channel lineup to select preferred programming. They can also watch TWC TV™ from any computer in their home by visiting www.twctv.com and logging in using their TWC username and password. For a complete channel lineup and more information on TWC TV™, visit the Untangled blog at www.twcableuntangled.com. All trademarks remain the property of their respective owners. About Time Warner Cable Time Warner Cable Inc. (NYSE: TWC) is among the largest providers of video, high‐speed data and voice services in the United States, connecting more than 15 million customers to entertainment, information and each other. Time Warner Cable Business Class offers data, video and voice services to businesses of all sizes, cell tower backhaul services to wireless carriers and, through its NaviSite subsidiary, managed and outsourced information technology solutions and cloud services. Time Warner Cable Media, the advertising arm of Time Warner Cable, offers national, regional and local companies innovative advertising solutions. More information about the services of Time Warner Cable is available at www.timewarnercable.com, www.twcbc.com, www.navisite.com, and www.twcmedia.com. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Nissan adopts 15 EV chargers, is first on nappy duty (video) Posted: 20 Apr 2012 12:28 PM PDT
Nissan's concerned that Leaf owners aren't getting around enough. So, until IBM's super-batteries arrive or Exxon starts installing charging points in its gas stations, the car maker's got to do it itself. In partnership with charity Adopt-A-Charger, it's paying for 15 charging points in California, three at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and twelve at the Music Concourse in San Francisco's Golden Gate Park. Customers will have totally free access, with Nissan pledging to pay for the upkeep and electricity that the public uses. After the break we've got a video whose narrator probably makes Chris Hansen jealous of his voice.
Nissan North America and Adopt a Charger to Provide Complimentary Charging Opportunities to California Electric Vehicle Owners -More than a dozen fee-free charging stations adopted by Nissan available to the public in Los Angeles and San Francisco- April 19, 2012 -- /PRNewswire/ -- Working with Adopt a Charger to accelerate the widespread acceptance of electric vehicles to address environmental concerns, Nissan North America has "adopted" 15 electric vehicle chargers in California. Through the relationship, Nissan has installed and will maintain three Aerovironment Level 2 chargers at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA). In San Francisco, at the Music Concourse Garage in Golden Gate Park, Nissan sponsored four Level 2 chargers and an additional eight 120v Level 1 outlets. The chargers are free to the public and provide convenient charging opportunities in these two high-traffic locations. "Working with Adopt a Charger, we're providing this community service in an effort to increase electric vehicle acceptance and make ownership more convenient by helping ensure chargers are available in high-traffic areas," said Jon Brancheau, Vice President – Nissan Marketing. "Nissan's commitment to zero emissions goes beyond the LEAF; we want to help transform global societies to adapt zero emissions vehicles as a way to address environmental concerns and promote energy independence." As a nonprofit organization, Adopt a Charger works with organizations and individuals to donate funds used to install and maintain fee-free electric vehicle chargers in public places. As such, Nissan and Adopt a Charger selected LACMA and Golden Gate Park to host the chargers as they both are highly-visited family attractions, with large concentrations of electric vehicle owners. Additionally, both venues are aligned with Nissan and Adopt a Charger's sustainability goals and objectives. "As our first corporate sponsor we made sure to carefully research the best places to offer Nissan's adopted chargers," said Kitty Adams, executive director of Adopt a Charger. "We found that LACMA and Golden Gate Park have several characteristics that make them the perfect venues. We truly believe that Los Angeles and San Francisco residents will greatly benefit from this new public service." According to a UCLA study, Los Angeles will be a leader in the U.S. market for electric vehicles, where nine percent of new vehicles will be electric by 2015. Additionally, as one of the top 100 most attended international museums (according to The Art Newspaper), LACMA proves to be a great candidate for the chargers, bringing in nearly 1 million visitors annually. Additionally, San Francisco's highly-trafficked Music Concourse Garage is a main parking structure used by people near and far as they visit Golden Gate Park, Music Concourse, de Young Museum, California Science Center, and the Japanese Tea Garden. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| IRL: Logitech UE Air Speaker, the Canon Rebel XT and an Arduino non-starter Posted: 20 Apr 2012 12:00 PM PDT Welcome to IRL, an ongoing feature where we talk about the gadgets, apps and toys we're using in real life and take a second look at products that already got the formal review treatment.  Welcome back to IRL, and if we do say so ourselves, this week's edition is a doozy. On one end of the gadget-loving spectrum, Jason is still happily using his Canon Rebel XT, while Darren remains thoroughly unsatisfied with his $400 AirPlay speaker (it was easy to set up, at least -- he'll give it that). And, just for good measure, we threw in an Arduino fail. So, which piece of audio gear is on our "do not buy" list? Who needs to take a course in wiring-based coding? And does Jason have anything negative to say about his DSLR? Head past the break to find out. Logitech UE Air Speaker I've been a fan of Logitech's speakers for years now, so I had fairly high hopes for the AirPlay-enabled UE Air. And at $400, I'd say those hopes were justified. I was promised a rather svelte looking setup that's capable of pumping out the smoothest of smooth jams without wires, but I sadly found that it doesn't exactly hit the nail on the proverbial head when it comes to audio quality. Getting started, at least, was a breeze. You can opt to use a free iOS app, or do as I did and set things up via a web browser. Within 90 seconds, I had the speaker linked to my WiFi network and had located the device in iTunes and MOG. Beyond that, things weren't as rosy. For starters, there's no bundled remote. This wouldn't be an issue in the least if Apple allowed the volume controls on its MacBook Pro keyboards to dictate volume on AirPlay devices, but alas, that's currently not possible (shocking, right?). What you're left with are two awful options: get up and spin the (admittedly elegant) volume wheel on the device, or dig up whatever music app you're using and click on the microscopic volume slider within iTunes / MOG / etc. I shouldn't have to explain why neither of those choices appeals to me; I just purchased a $400 wireless speaker. Why should controlling the volume be this inconvenient? More troubling, however, was the ear-shattering sounds that were emitted each time I booted the speaker up or even gently tweaked the volume slider in the MOG desktop app. I was just about deafened on a few occasions, and with no easy option to turn things down, well... it's just not pleasant to use. And then, there's sound quality. It's thoroughly middling. For a speaker with "Ultimate Ears" on it, there's really nothing ultimate about the audio. The low-end is -- for all intents and purposes -- missing completely. It's actually kind of puzzling how large this speaker is given the abject lack of bass output. At high volume levels, even the highs crack up; as TechCrunch's Matt Burns says, "this is no party speaker." Truthfully, I still think my aging Logitech mm50 (which can be had for around $40 on eBay) provides better sound quality per dollar, even at its old $99 MSRP. The Logitech UE Air boasts pleasing aesthetics, but everything else is decidedly ho-hum -- and for $400, you shouldn't have to deal with a ho-hum speaker. (On a side note, there are major dropout issues when streaming MOG to an AirPlay speaker; the device handled iTunes playback fine (with local MP3 files), but throw in an extra level of streaming and things get downright unusable.) -- Darren Murph Arduino Uno Now, here's where I let you in on a little secret about myself: I'm insanely impatient. After three days I could make the damn thing blink lights, make noises and respond to the press of a button. Beyond that I was lost. And, truth be told, I probably couldn't have recreated those sketches without having the examples staring me in the face. So, after less than a week, my love affair with Arduino came to an end and I went back to living vicariously through others who were more creative and technically adept. A couple of months ago I picked the board back up and ordered an Ethernet shield to pair with it, convinced that a lack of connectivity was stifling my creative juices. I cracked the books back open and started meticulously pouring over the example sketches, trying desperately to figure out this foreign language. (And the wiring-based coding environment, which is itself based on C, is just that -- a foreign language.) And, here's another secret: I suck at languages. Three years of Italian in High School and two years of college Spanish and I can't even order in a restaurant. Heck, I can barely read music and I've been playing guitar for almost 20 years. So, now the Arduino and its accompanying shield sit on my desk next to my ThinkPad, serving as a constant reminder of my failure. -- Terrence O'Brien Canon EOS Digital Rebel XT Since then, the camera has proved to be quite the reliable sidekick. Whether it be a snow-filled shrine by Mount Fuji or Rome's eerily quiet streets after the tourists have checked in for the evening, the Rebel XT delivers. Its light weight relative to more heavy-duty pro cameras makes it a good digital SLR for traveling. I don't know how many times I just grabbed the camera and a light tripod to do a quick day trip on a whim. The ability to fine-tune the settings to match lighting conditions or achieve a certain effect -- along with the instant response I get once I hit the shutter -- was something I missed terribly when I eventually bought a point-and-shoot. Admittedly, the Rebel XT feels a bit plasticky and its ISO range isn't as wide compared to newer models. As someone who used to minor in photography, I admittedly feel a bit sheepish when I go to family gatherings and see relatives who only occasionally dabble in photography whipping out cameras that cost triple what mine did. As tempting as it's been to move up to a more professional-grade camera, though, my XT is still more than enough camera for the more leisurely kind of shooting that I do these days. Besides family photos, I've used this camera to nail shots of waterfalls and fireworks, among other things. Granted, I've used it to take my fair share of not-so-good photos, too -- but those were due mostly to poor technique on my part. If anything, what I could really use right now is a new, faster lens. After looking at lens prices, though, it appears that my old "condition" is mysteriously acting up again... -- Jason Hidalgo | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| SanDisk profits declining thanks to a 'glut' of flash memory on the market Posted: 20 Apr 2012 11:44 AM PDT
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Sometime last year I decided I simply had to have an 
I still remember how excited I felt the first time I took out my new 
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