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- Purported fifth-gen iPod touch panel slips out, show a tall 4.1-inch screen that's possibly iPhone-bound
- Google goes Moogle, celebrates Moog's birthday with interactive doodle
- Nokia axes Skype client on Lumia 610, claims user experience wasn't 'up to par'
- DICE to require 64-bit OS for some 2013 games, that Windows ME box in the den isn't cutting it
- Google's self-driving cars will return to roots, tour California
- Eugene Polley, co-creator of the wireless TV remote, passes away aged 96
- Motorola shows three all-touch Android 4.0 phones in China, we see a possible Verizon model
- Lenovo IdeaCentre A720 now up for touchy-feely orders
- Insert Coin: Knut WiFi-enabled sensor hub (video)
- Verizon's Viewdini for Android hunts streaming video on Comcast Xfinity, Hulu and Netflix, strains our 4G
- Dell Latitude 6430u: an Ultrabook tailored for suit-and-tie types
- ASUS Zenbook Prime UX21A preview
- ASUS bringing Zenbook Prime UX21A, UX31A, UX32A and UX32VD to the US, prices start at $799
- Tesla CEO tweets that crash testing is complete, Model S production ready to roll
- Sonos' wireless Sub adds extra thump to your Sonos system for $700 (ears-on)
- Panasonic Eluga review
- Google glasses gets raft of new patents, sniffs lawsuits coming from miles away
- Google officially closes deal for Motorola Mobility
- ooVoo opens up 12-way chat on Facebook and the iPad, gives other apps a facelift
- UK's Bemilo pay-as-you-go mobile service gives greater control to worrisome parents
- Sidecar comes out of beta, reinvents phone calls
- Samsung: 'Lawyers didn't design the Galaxy S III'
- Customer service avatars coming to JFK, La Guardia, Newark airports (video)
- Alienware laptops to use Killer Wireless-N 1202 WiFi cards, guarantee a few frags at the coffee shop
- Garmin multi-sensor controller concept replaces touchscreen interface with in-console dial rig
- Hulu delivers 10 new original shows for summer, iOS app update with iPad retina display support
- GitHub branches out, releases Windows client
- Ben Heck's Android-controlled pot-stirrer does (most of) the cooking for you
- Microsoft Research team shatters data sorting record, wrenches trophy from Yahoo
- Sony Xperia U goes on sale at Three UK
- PSA: Marketplace for Windows Mobile 6.x shuts down today
- SpaceX Dragon is ready for launch (update: launched!), view the live stream now
- Exploit uses firewalls to hijack smartphones, turns friends into foes
- Maker Faire Bay Area 2012, in pictures: 3D printers, unicorns, tesla coils and zombies (video)
- MetroPCS and T-Mobile want Dish to give up half of its wireless spectrum, worry about AT&T and Verizon swooping in
- Electric Motor Werks hands-on at Maker Faire (video)
- Inrix Traffic 4 for iOS helps drivers avoid traffic congestion and estimate arrival times (video)
- HTC One S teardown leaves little to the imagination (video)
- Amazon Appstore's Test Drive try before you buy feature now available on Android phones
- Virgin Mobile adds $40 payLo unlimited plan for talk and text types
| Posted: 22 May 2012 11:43 AM PDT It's been a long, long time since Apple undertook a significant redesign of the iPod touch, which hasn't been looked at since 2010 and received just a splash of white last year. A possible front panel part leak we've just seen could overturn all that -- and hint at the 2012 iPhone's direction in the process. If we go by the claims of MacRumors' supplier friends, the media player would be growing up, but not out, with a taller 4.1-inch screen. We're skeptical, as the white part (black on the inside) seems almost too good to be true -- we haven't seen anything similar elsewhere in the unofficial parts market. Still, having heard murmurs of larger iPhone screens and knowing Apple's own tendency to base the iPod touch on whatever iPhone flavor is new this year, we could be looking at iPhones and iPods growing for the first time since 2007. There's also some as yet unconfirmed next-gen iPhone parts included by the source, although we'd hesitate to call them smoking guns unless they're put together in Apple-like form later in the year. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Google goes Moogle, celebrates Moog's birthday with interactive doodle Posted: 22 May 2012 11:29 AM PDT It's time to surrender another afternoon to an interactive Google doodle. The search engine has outdone itself in celebration of the late-Bob Moog's birthday. The electronic music pioneer was born on May 23rd, 1934. Seeing as how the anniversary isn't until tomorrow, the doodle hasn't actually hit our Google front page. Thanks to the magic of timezones, however, you can check it out on some of the company's many international sites, as our colleagues at Engadget Japanese pointed out. Google's really outdone itself here, you can play the synth doodle by tapping on the keys with your cursor, or by hitting the numbers on your keyboard. Naturally, there are plenty of knobs to fiddle with, and you can also record your musical experiments for posterity. Get switched-on with the music awesomeness in the source link below. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Nokia axes Skype client on Lumia 610, claims user experience wasn't 'up to par' Posted: 22 May 2012 11:24 AM PDT It took nearly a full month, but Nokia has finally been convinced that Skype is indeed incompatible with low-memory Windows Phones. In reaching out to a spokesperson, the company confirmed to us that it has decided to yank the official client from the Marketplace on the Lumia 610. The device -- which utilizes a scant 256MB of RAM -- originally allowed the service to be downloaded despite Skype's claims that 512MB was the minimum amount of memory required for the app to function properly. The internet phone service, as it turns out, was correct: Nokia, stating that the user experience is "workable" but not "up to par with Nokia's and Skype's expectation," has pulled the plug on any future downloads. Users who managed to snag the app before it disappeared can still enjoy (or hate, depending on your experience) it on their Lumia 610, but until Skype is able to lower the memory restrictions, it looks like everyone else is out of luck. Head below for the full translated statement.
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| DICE to require 64-bit OS for some 2013 games, that Windows ME box in the den isn't cutting it Posted: 22 May 2012 11:02 AM PDT We're entering a world of mainstream 64-bit computing -- whether we like it or not. Just weeks after Adobe started requiring 64-bit Macs for CS6, DICE's Rendering Architect Johan Andersson has warned that some of his company's 2013 games using the Frostbite engine will need the extra bits as a matter of course. In other words, it won't matter if you have a quad Core i7 gaming PC of death should the software be inadequate; if you're still running a 32-bit copy of Windows 7 come the new year, you won't be playing. The developer points to memory as the main culprit, as going 64-bit guarantees full access to 4GB or more of RAM as well as better virtual addressing. Andersson sees it as a prime opportunity to upgrade to Windows 8, although 64-bit Vista and 7 (and presumably OS X, if and when Mac versions exist) will be dandy. Just be prepared to upgrade that Windows XP PC a lot sooner than Microsoft's 2014 support cutoff if you're planning to run the next Battlefield or Mirror's Edge. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Google's self-driving cars will return to roots, tour California Posted: 22 May 2012 10:41 AM PDT Thanks to a new law passed in California, Google's driverless cars might soon be stuck in its traffic with all the other hapless commuters. Although they won't hit the highway yet, like they can in Nevada, the bipartisan bill will allow bureaucrats to craft safety and performance standards -- letting the robotic rigs roll (with licensed minders) in the near future. Joining Hawaii, Florida, Arizona and Oklahoma with similar legislation, the state hopes to reduce carnage on the roads caused by human error, and is backed by Google, the California Highway Patrol and various civic, auto and tech clubs. Of course, given that it was birthed in Google's Mountain View X lab, it's only natural that the autonomous EV should be allowed to roam free on its home turf. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Eugene Polley, co-creator of the wireless TV remote, passes away aged 96 Posted: 22 May 2012 10:22 AM PDT TV Remote Control Inventor Eugene Polley, 1915-2012 CHICAGO, May 21, 2012 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- Best known as the inventor of the first wireless remote control for television, Eugene J. Polley started his career with Zenith Radio Corporation (now Zenith Electronics LLC, a subsidiary of LG Electronics) in 1935. His 47-year engineering career spanned the pioneering days of radio, black-and-white television and color TV. Mr. Polley died of natural causes on May 20 in Advocate Good Samaritan Hospital, Downers Grove, Ill. He was 96. His inventions, primarily in the field of television, earned 18 U.S. patents. Mr. Polley's best known invention, the "Flash-Matic" remote control, was the world's first wireless TV remote, introduced in 1955. It used a flashlight-like device to activate photo cells on the television set to change channels. Mr. Polley worked his way up from the stockroom to the parts department, where he produced Zenith's first catalog, and then on to his long career in the engineering department. During World War II, as part of Zenith's commitment to the war effort, Mr. Polley worked on radar advances for the U.S. Department of Defense. Mr. Polley also worked on the push-button radio for automobiles and on the development of the video disk, predecessor of today's DVD. Over the years, Mr. Polley held key technology positions at Zenith, including as Product Engineer, Mechanical Engineer, Head of Video Recording Group, Advanced Mechanical Design Group and Assistant Division Chief for the Mechanical Engineering Group. Mr. Polley was the 2009 recipient of the Masaru Ibuka Consumer Electronics Award from the Institute of Electronic and Electrical Engineers. Mr. Polley and fellow Zenith engineer Robert Adler were honored in 1997 with an Emmy Award from the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences for "Pioneering Development of Wireless Remote Controls for Consumer Television." Mr. Polley's innovation has been featured in numerous articles and television programs. Eugene J. Polley was born in Chicago on Nov. 29, 1915. He attended the City Colleges of Chicago and Armour Institute. He was a longtime resident of Lombard, Ill., where he was active in village government, serving as a member of the village's Zoning Board of Appeals for 34 years. He is survived by his son, Eugene J. Polley Jr., and grandson, Aaron, of San Diego, Calif. He was preceded in death by his wife, Blanche, and daughter, Joan Polley. Visitation will be held May 22, 5-8 p.m., Brust Funeral Home, Lombard, Ill. A funeral mass will be held May 23 at 10 a.m., Sacred Heart Church, Lombard, followed by internment at Assumption Cemetery in Wheaton. FATHER OF THE TV REMOTE CONTROL The inventor of the first wireless remote control for television, Zenith's Gene Polley, was called everything from the founding father of the couch potato to the czar of zapping to the beach boy of channel surfing. Few would dispute the enormous impact of this invention, devised in an era of three or four VHF broadcast TV stations in most markets. Today, remote control is not a luxury but a necessity in navigating 500-plus digital cable or digital satellite channels, or controlling an HDTV, Blu-Ray Disc player, digital video recorder or home theater audio system - all at the touch of a button. Zenith's Gene Polley ushered in the era of channel surfing in the middle of the 20th Century during the Golden Age of Television. Mr. Polley invented the "Flash-Matic," which represented the world's first wireless TV remote. Introduced in 1955, Flash-Matic operated by means of four photo cells, one in each corner of the TV screen. The viewer used a highly directional flashlight to activate the four control functions, which turned the picture and sound on and off and changed channels by turning the tuner dial clockwise and counter-clockwise. Commander Eugene F. McDonald Jr., Zenith's late founder-president, believed TV viewers would not tolerate commercials. While developing and promoting the concept of commercial-free subscription television, McDonald yearned for a way for viewers to take back control from the advertisers. Mr. Polley's Flash-Matic accomplishes that goal. McDonald ordered it into production and honored Mr. Polley with the President's Award. Building on Mr. Polley's innovation, fellow Zenith engineer, the late Dr. Robert Adler, later developed the next-generation wireless TV remote based on ultrasonic technology, Space Command. By the early 1980s, the industry moved from ultrasonic to infrared, or IR, remote technology. The IR remote works by using a low-frequency light beam, so low that the human eye cannot see it, but which can be detected by a receiver in the TV. Zenith's development of cable-compatible tuning and teletext technologies in the 1980s greatly enhanced the capabilities for infrared TV remotes. Today, wireless remote pioneered by Mr. Polley, is a standard feature on virtually all consumer electronics products. The most sophisticated digital HDTV sets have remotes with as many as 50 buttons. Of course, in 2012, virtually all television sets, set-top boxes, video players/recorders and other home entertainment components sold in the United States are equipped with remote control. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Motorola shows three all-touch Android 4.0 phones in China, we see a possible Verizon model Posted: 22 May 2012 10:01 AM PDT It turns out that Motorola didn't want to wait until the Google deal closed -- or, for that matter, an American launch -- to undertake a significant revamp of its phone line. A quiet Chinese event last week is now known to have brought us three RAZR-derived, all-touch phones for the three carriers in the Asian country: the XT885 for China Unicom (pictured at left), XT889 for China Telecom (center) and MT887 for China Mobile (right). Other than the network types and pretty bits, you're mostly looking at the same device, where the highlight is an official dip into Android 4.0 waters that drops the physical navigation in favor of more Nexusish on-screen keys. Don't expect a revolution in performance over last fall's roster given that they still have 1.2GHz dual-core processors, eight-megapixel rear cameras and 4.3-inch, 540 x 960 displays. The trio arrives in China on June 2nd; Motorola is likely more worried about popping champagne than giving out US launch details right now, but earlier leaks give us a strong hunch that the MT887 could hit Verizon as the uncannily similar (if still very unofficial) Droid Fighter before too long. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Lenovo IdeaCentre A720 now up for touchy-feely orders Posted: 22 May 2012 09:38 AM PDT If you've been waiting to, literally, get your hands on the submissive A720 all-in-one from Lenovo, now you can. When we got our paws on it back at CES, it's fair to say we were intrigued. Now, the 27-inch 10-point multitouch PC is up for your buying pleasure. The bad news is, that reported $1,299 base-model price is now actually $1,849, rising to $2,099 if you want the bells and whistles (or 64GB SSD and TV tuner more specifically). You are getting some Ivy Bridge action in that mix, though. The first units won't ship until early June, but if you're looking for a tactile desktop, run your fingers over the source link for more info. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Insert Coin: Knut WiFi-enabled sensor hub (video) Posted: 22 May 2012 09:12 AM PDT In Insert Coin, we look at an exciting new tech project that requires funding before it can hit production. If you'd like to pitch a project, please send us a tip with "Insert Coin" as the subject line. On the surface, Knut (pronounced Kah-noot) doesn't sound terribly exciting -- it's a pocketable WiFi-enabled device that beams you realtime stats over the web. But consider the possible applications, and you'll be much more anxious to pick one up. You can use Knut to measure humidity in your humidor, the temperature in your fish tank or even the status of a door or window. You can monitor stats in realtime, or set alerts so you'll know something's wrong before your goldfish cooks in the tank, those precious Cuban cigars you smuggled through Customs dry up and crumble or someone sneaks into your house through a window after you check in miles away on Foursquare. After popping in a pair of AAA batteries (which are said to last from 2 weeks to 10 years, depending on the battery and syncing options), you assign Knut an email address, which it then uses to communicate. Other Knuts can use the same email address, from which they'll send updates at pre-set intervals. Knut ships with built-in temperature and battery level sensors, and it's compatible with a variety of add-ons, from humidity and vibration to door and water presence sensors. You can also create your own sensor using the breakout board. The project creators have developed a functional prototype, but they need to raise additional funds to pay programmers and buy materials for mass production. As usual, that's where you come in. The first 200 Kickstarter backers can hop on board the pre-order train with a pledge of $80, while an unlimited number of devices will be available for $95. A $115 pledge will get you a Knut and an additional sensor, while $175 will up the order to one Knut, three sensors and a three-port hub. There's six weeks left to go on the campaign, with a goal of $25,000 and an estimated September ship date. As always, you'll find everything you need in the demo video and source link, just after the break.
Previous project update: The CordLite illuminated iPhone cable is approaching the 50-percent mark of its $70,000 goal, with five weeks left to go. There's plenty of time left to "pre-order" yours for just $30. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Posted: 22 May 2012 08:47 AM PDT Verizon is clearly looking to make itself the front door for Internet video this year. Bolstering its tie-ins with Color and Redbox, it's now kicking off Viewdini, a carrier-specific Android app that will help you find video across multiple services: along with Internet-only providers like Hulu Plus, mSpot and Netflix, it will sift through the online component of Comcast's Xfinity brand, taking a little bit more advantage of that cross-sales deal coming out of the proposed spectrum handover. Even Verizon's own FiOS video will be late to its own party, coming "soon." Viewdini will only be available for 4G LTE-equipped Android phones and tablets later this month, with "other operating systems" and services due in the future -- given the currently very short list of non-Android 4G devices, we have a few ideas as to where the app might go next. Either way, get ready to collide with bandwidth caps faster than usual if you love what Verizon plans to offer. [Image credit: AllThingsD] Verizon Wireless Introduces viewdini: Innovative Mobile Video Portal to Provide Quick and Easy Access to Content BOSTON and BASKING RIDGE, N.J., May 22, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Verizon Wireless today introduced viewdini, an innovative portal that creates a new entertainment choice for consumers by making it simple to search and view movies, television shows, and other video on mobile devices. Verizon Wireless made the announcement in Boston at The Cable Show 2012, the National Cable & Telecommunication Association annual conference. Verizon Wireless' viewdini acts as a mobile video aggregator that makes it easy for users to search thousands of titles from some of the Web's leading content providers like Netflix, Hulu Plus, mSpot, TV sites, movie studios, Comcast's Xfinity TV, Verizon FiOS and cable operators. By simply searching for a title, topic, or star's name, viewdini will let customers know which services have mobile video for streaming, and whether it is available at no additional charge, by subscription, to rent or for purchase. A simple click will also provide related content and information like cast and crew info and links to similar titles. Viewdini will be available to Verizon Wireless customers with 4G LTE Android™ devices later this month, with support for other operating systems expected to be added soon. The application can be downloaded from the Google Play store, and is free to customers. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Dell Latitude 6430u: an Ultrabook tailored for suit-and-tie types Posted: 22 May 2012 08:25 AM PDT It's far from official, but from the looks of things, an update to Dell's Latitude line may be incoming. According to Dutch site Tweakers.net, the outfit's 14-inch refresh, bearing model number 6430u, will purportedly sport a 1366 x 768 display, dual-core i3, i5 or i7 Ivy Bridge processor and measure in at a slightly chunky 20.9mm thick. For the business-minded types that it's being aimed at, this enterprise-ready Ultrabook will also run Intel's vPro platform, giving IT departments worldwide easy access for data management and remote wipes, in addition to supporting a smartcard reader and an optional fingerprint scanner. As for its SSD innards, the unit should be available in configurations up to 256GB with a maximum of 8GB RAM allotted. Since this fella exists in a grey zone for now, there's no official pricing or release date to speak of, though rumors do point to a June bow. Check out the source below for a translated take on this pre-release kit. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ASUS Zenbook Prime UX21A preview Posted: 22 May 2012 08:01 AM PDT More InfoIt was only a matter of time before ASUS refreshed its line of Ultrabooks with Intel's new Ivy Bridge chips, but the truth is, the company needed to improve a little more than just the CPU model number. If you recall, the Zenbook UX31 ushered in a modern metal design and unbeatable speed, but our enthusiasm waned after spending a week with the flat keyboard and temperamental touchpad. Well, friends, it looks like Chairman Jonney Shih and co. were listening: the outfit is about to bring four of its leaked Zenbook Prime laptops to the US. These include the 11-inch UX21A, which you see up there, along with the 13-inch UX31A, UX32A and the UX32VD -- essentially, the UX31A with discrete graphics. Though different configurations are bound to vary, they all bring retooled, backlit keyboards, refined trackpads and, of course, Intel's third-generation Core processors. And while the lower-end UX32A is stuck with 1366 x 768 resolution, every other model -- yes, even the tiny UX21A -- will be offered with a 1080p IPS display. In general, ASUS isn't ready to talk availability for these four models, and has not given any indication as to how much the UX21A will cost (it did reveal tentative prices for the other three). So these aren't shipping products you can buy just yet, but luckily for us, we got the chance to spend a few days with the UX21A. While we're holding off on calling this a review -- we need a price and final, production-quality unit for that -- we're good and ready to share our early thoughts. So what are you waiting for? Meet us past the break where photos, benchmark scores and detailed impressions lie in waiting. Look and feel
Looking at the UX21A, it's obvious that ASUS was reluctant to change the design: it altered only the things customers had been complaining about, which is to say the keyboard deck has gotten a substantial makeover. But otherwise, it's the same aesthetic. And why not? The spun metal lid was striking enough the first time, as was the all-metal chassis, pinch-thin silhouette and smooth, closed-door bottom. If you're an obsessive like some of us, you might notice the spun pattern seems finer, and that the edges feel slightly softer. ASUS also removed the tacky script branding that we took issue with on the original. Those tweaks minor enough for you? At 2.4 pounds and 9mm thick at its plumpest, the UX21A is light: on par with other 11-inch laptops, including the MacBook Air. As you'd expect, it's easy to hold in one hand, and even easier to slip into a shoulder bag, but working with it on your legs can take practice. Mostly, that's because the weight distribution is lopsided enough that the dense, metal-backed lid causes the whole machine to tilt back precariously (read our IRL column and you'll see some 11-inch Air owners have the same beef). In any case, it's easy enough to avoid this by making sure not to tilt the screen too far away from you, which shouldn't be a problem, given that versatile IPS display and all. As ever, this kind of skinniness comes at a cost: the UX21A only makes room for a handful of ports, including two USB 3.0 sockets, a headphone jack, mini-VGA and micro-HDMI. That's right, there's still no SD reader on this little guy; you'll have to step up to one of the two 13-inch models for that. Other than that, there aren't any differences between the two sizes. Wrapping up our tour, the lot have sealed bottoms, which means the battery, memory slots and SSDs aren't user-replaceable. Each has 802.11a/b/g/n WiFi along with Bluetooth 2.1 + EDR. You'll also get support for both Bluetooth 4.0, as well as 10/100Mbps Ethernet, so long as you supply an external cable. Etc.You didn't think ASUS would have a change of heart when it came to accessories, did you? As with the first-gen Zenbooks, the company's throwing in a sleeve (this time in a muted brown), along with mini-VGA-to-VGA and USB-to-Ethernet adapters. You're on your own for full-sized HDMI. As for the power adapter, it's a small, boxy affair with a thin, non-removable cord on one end, and an outlet connector that can be detached -- not unlike Apple's power bricks. Keyboard and trackpad
If our review of the original Zenbook boiled down to "It's great, but...," that potential deal-breaker could have been the lifeless keyboard, flaky trackpad or both, depending on how sensitive you are to such things. ASUS clearly took these criticisms to heart, if this specimen we have before us is any indication. With this generation, the outfit's traded those flat, metal keys for something cushier, with deeper pitch and a little more bounce -- a 12 percent boost in travel, says ASUS. It's a classic case of function over form, really: while the black, plastic keys don't look as futuristic as the ones they replace, they're worlds more comfortable to type on -- even on the 11-inch model, which naturally makes do with less deck space than the 13-incher. Ultimately, yours truly wrote the brunt of this preview on the Prime, with only a few instances of keys not registering presses. We only wish it were such smooth sailing for people who took a chance on the original models. Another complaint ASUS heeded was the lack of keyboard backlighting on the first Zenbooks. This go-round, there's a white glow emanating from beneath the keys. Unlike, say, Samsung's Series 9, which is hardwired to shut down the backlight in bright-enough environments, you can turn these lights on or off whenever you want. You can't manually adjust the level of brightness, but, then again, there's already an ambient light sensor doing those calculations for you. There are two function keys dedicated to enabling or disabling the backlighting, and while you're poking around that top row, you'll also find volume, brightness and mute controls, among others. If you're curious, these functions are all secondary, meaning you'll need to press the "Fn" button to make use of them. And though we haven't yet had a chance to test a final, production-grade version, it would seem that ASUS managed not to repeat the mistakes it made with the first gen's touchpad. This time around, navigation is reliable and precise -- not once did the cursor jump to random parts of the screen as we were typing. It also responds impeccably to multitouch gestures, with smooth two-finger scrolls and some of the most controlled pinch-to-zoom we've ever experienced on a Windows PC. To wit, this is one carefully machined clickpad; the button is quiet and easy to press, without feeling too stiff or gummy. Display and sound So you pressed "Ctrl-F" looking for "1366 x 768" and turned up nothing. (Except that little bit there.) Now what are you going to complain about? Not the display, anyway. As it was, the 13-inch Zenbook UX31 was remarkable for offering 1600 x 900 resolution, but now ASUS is upping the ante, moving to a 1080p pixel count on both its 11- and 13-inch models. What's more, this isn't just your garden-variety TN panel, but an IPS display offering 350-nit brightness, 72 percent color gamut and 170-degree viewing angles (yours truly misspoke in that video up there and said 178 degrees; that's not correct). No surprise here: 1080p is plenty dense on an 11-inch display, and we actually found ourselves zooming in on pages packed with text. What really spoiled us, though, is the quality of the screen. It's just saturated and glossy enough that it brings out the best in movies, but you might still mistake it for a matte display at first glance; there's that little glare to put up with. As you can hopefully see in our hands-on shots, the viewing angles are wide, as promised, and images hold up well whether you watch from the side or with the screen dipped at an acute angle. Something ASUS didn't need to fix? The speakers. Even its first-generation Ultrabooks offered alarmingly loud, robust sound, thanks to a slamming Bang & Olufsen setup. Those speakers live on here (albeit, with minor tweaks), and so does the superior sound quality. Performance and battery life
Since Intel hasn't announced the remainder of its Ivy Bridge CPUs, ASUS isn't yet discussing the clock speed or model number of the processors it's used. (We could tell you ourselves, but we'd be breaching a confidentiality agreement. Sorry, Charlies.) What we can share is that this particular UX21A runs off a Core i7 Ivy Bridge processor, paired with 4GB of RAM and a 256GB SanDisk 6Gbps SSD (128GB drives will also be available). Oh, and cheer up, folks, because while we can't disclose the exact CPU just yet, we were allowed to benchmark the snot out of our test machine. As you can see in the table above, it steamrolls most Ultrabooks and just about matches the last-gen UX31. Interestingly, the UX21A notches a clear lead in the graphics department, which lends credence to rumblings we've heard about Intel's newest integrated solution offering a nice boost over the ol' HD 3000. In everyday use, too, it aims to please: our test unit routinely booted in about 18 seconds and resumed from sleep in less than two. In the disk benchmark ATTO, its read speeds peaked at 486 MB/s while its writes maxed out at 356 MB/s. That's not quite as fast as the SATA III inside the UX31, but it easily tops the SSDs inside most of the Ultrabooks we've reviewed.
The 11-inch UX21A we tested has a 35Wh (4,800 mAh) battery, while the two 13-inch models make room for a 50Wh (6,840mAh) cell. Unsurprisingly, then, it doesn't come close to matching some of the larger, more longevous models we've tested. All told, it lasted four hours and 19 minutes in our battery rundown test, which consists of looping a movie off the local disk with WiFi on and the brightness fixed at 65 percent. According to ASUS' engineering team, the UX21A is capable of around five and a half hours with more mixed usage, and up to six and a half hours using ASUS' specialty power saving mode (more on that in the software section). ASUS also claims that you can expect up to two weeks of endurance in standby mode -- a claim we naturally did not have time to test. SoftwareThis is one area where we'd especially prefer to test the kinds of production-level models consumers can expect to find on shelves. For now, though, the laptops issued to tech journalists writing early previews were largely scrubbed of third-party software, save for McAfee Internet Security. Otherwise, you'll find a raft of ASUS-branded utilities, including AI Recovery, FaceLogon, Instant Connect, LifeFrame3, Live Update, Power4Gear Hybrid, PWR Option, Secure Delete, Splendid Video Enhancement Technology, Tutor, USB Charger Plus, Virtual Touch and WebStorage Sync Agent. As we mentioned briefly, these Zenbooks come loaded with some ASUS-approved power management profiles, which co-exist with the stock options offered on every Win 7 machine. The Power4Gear suite includes four modes in total: Entertainment, High Performance, Battery Saving and Quiet Office. We encourage you to play with these as you're getting settled, but you should know that whenever you unplug the machine, it will default to the Power4Gear Battery Saving mode unless you manually switch to the proflle you want. Likewise, when we started up the machine after our battery test completed, the machine had reverted to one of these specialty profiles, as opposed to balanced mode, which we were using before the battery gave out. Configuration optionsOkay, Ultrabooks are never the most configurable laptops out there, but even here, you've got options. Though we tested a tricked-out UX21A with a Core i7 CPU, 256GB drive and 1080p display, you can save some pennies by going with a Core i5 processor and 128GB SSD instead. Meanwhile, the UX31A will be offered with the same processors, solid-state drives and screen resolutions, but you can also get it with a Sandy Bridge Core i3 CPU at the low end. There's also the lower-end UX32A, a 13-inch model with 1366 x 768 resolution and hybrid hard drives. Rounding out the bunch, the UX32VD is the same as the higher-end UX31A except for one crucial spec: instead of integrated graphics, it has an NVIDIA GeForce GT 620M GPU with 1GB of video memory. Now that we'd like to test! Wrap-up It would seem, even after spending just a few days with the UX21A, that ASUS has mended its Zenbook line in the areas where it was most lacking. This time around, the trackpad is cooperative while the keyboard is backlit and far easier to type on. Not that the last-gen 1600 x 900 display was a bad thing, but we're not one to complain about an upgrade to IPS and 1080p resolution either. We'll be updating this preview with a final verdict and more detailed processor information once we test a final, production-grade unit and once ASUS gives us a price to help put this all in context. All that said, though, it would be an understatement in the meantime to say we like what we see. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ASUS bringing Zenbook Prime UX21A, UX31A, UX32A and UX32VD to the US, prices start at $799 Posted: 22 May 2012 08:00 AM PDT First the rumor mill revealed ASUS had plans to refresh Ultrabooks with Ivy Bridge and 1080p IPS displays. Then the company confirmed the news itself when it brought some new Zenbook Prime laptops out for a demo and promised they'd go on sale in ASUS' native Taiwan. Now we've got some splendid news for our readers here in the US: those fresh ultraportables are making their way stateside too... eventually. ASUS just confirmed it's bringing four models to the states: the 11-inch UX21A, the 13-inch UX31A / UX32A and the UX32VD. What's the difference between the UX31A and the UX32A, you ask? It all comes down to storage: the UX32A uses hybrid hard drives, while the UX31A packs an SSD. Meanwhile, the UX32VD is nearly identical to the UX31A except that it packs an NVIDIA GT 620M GPU. As rumored, the lineup includes Core i5 and i7 Ivy Bridge processors, with 1920 x 1080 IPS displays offered even on the 11-incher. (If you don't need that kind of pixel density, 1366 x 768 displays will be available as well.) Another thing they all have in common: ASUS has tweaked the touchpad and re-tooled the keyboard, making the pitch 12 percent deeper. Also, the keys are now backlit, for what that's worth. Tentatively, ASUS is saying the 13-inch variations will start at $999 with Ivy Bridge. Still no word on pricing for the smaller UX21A, though we know it will be offered in two flavors: one with Core i5 and a 128GB SSD, and one with Core i7 and an optional 256GB drive. Of course, ASUS is careful to warn that these prices are subject to change, though we're presuming they're at least in the same ballpark as what you'll ultimately pay. Additionally, ASUS isn't saying when, exactly, these models will be available, but it's obvious that Intel needs to formally unveil its remaining Ivy Bridge CPUs before these laptops can see the light of day. We'll hit you back with more details as we receive them, but in the meantime head over to our preview of the UX21A for hands-on photos, benchmark scores and detailed impressions. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Tesla CEO tweets that crash testing is complete, Model S production ready to roll Posted: 22 May 2012 07:41 AM PDT As the world awaits the arrival of Tesla's Model S, CEO Elon Musk has triumphantly tweeted (it was a busy night) that the car has passed all crash testing for a five star rating. The upshot, other than assuring prospective owners of their safety even if their limited edition ride gets dinged, is that cars can be built for sale and the first customer deliveries are scheduled for June 22nd -- just ahead of the original July projections. We've already had seat time in the sporty sedan, and if predictions hold, about half of the 10,000 who have preordered so far should get their shot in 2012, before production ramps up to 20,000 units in 2013. With a pricetag of up to $77,400 it may be time to make sure your financing is in order, although we're sure there others on the list who wouldn't mind moving up one bit. While you're counting down to the arrival of your own Model S (if, indeed, you ordered one) check out the source links for more info. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Sonos' wireless Sub adds extra thump to your Sonos system for $700 (ears-on) Posted: 22 May 2012 07:20 AM PDT Although we generally raved about the performance of Sonos' Play:3 wireless HiFi speakers, one of our chief complaints rested in their slightly muddy bass output. Folks who've felt similarly should be pleased to know that the company has unveiled its first subwoofer, dubbed Sonos Sub. This $700 bass-dropper works wirelessly with your existing Sonos speakers, requiring a quick a setup within the app to ensure it's in-phase and putting out an adequate level of volume. You'll only find a single cable and switch for power on the outside, while looking through its center reveals a duo of "force-cancelling" drivers. Two internal air-ports also flow from top to bottom to aid in the unit's bass reproduction. We gave a pre-production unit a very brief listen with a stereo array of Sonos Play:3s and came out fairly impressed. The speakers are no slouches on their own, but there's no denying the extra power a sub can add to the HiFi boxes. Measuring in at 15.8 x 6.2 x 15 inches (402 x 158 x 380mm) the Sub dwarf's even the larger Play:5, but a Sonos rep let us know it ensures it'll cover a range of spaces -- not mention folks using the Connect:Amp with their own HiFi speakers (Sonos' Connect, ZP90 and ZP80 aren't compatible, however). We got pleasing results from our unit planted on a table a few feet away from any walls, and the system didn't show any signs or shaking or rattling. The Sub can thankfully rest sideways for placement under some couches, but you'll likely want to "set it and forget it" since it weighs about 36 pounds. Our only displeasure rests in the glossy finish -- a magnet for fingerprints and dust -- but we're told a non-gloss version will be offered later for $100 less. You'll be able to pick up this wub-maker come June 19, so check out the video and press release after the break for more info in the meantime.
Insert your Press Release here! INTRODUCING SONOS SUB: Fill any room with deep, clear HiFi bass SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – May 22, 2012 – Sonos, Inc., the leading manufacturer of wireless music systems, today introduced the HYPERLINK "http://www.sonos.com/SUB" Sonos SUB, a stunningly designed wireless subwoofer that takes the whole Sonos Wireless HiFi System one seismic step closer to the spine-curling, jaw-dropping, full body experience music was meant to be. SUB will be available beginning June 19th. For a preview video of SUB, visit the Sonos Blog. "Like all of our products, our new SUB is designed from the inside out by Sonos," says John MacFarlane, CEO, Sonos, Inc. "SUB has all the hallmarks of a great Sonos product: Clear, deep, all-digital sound, an incredibly simple setup, and beautiful design you'll be proud to show off in your home." Whether you're listening to Beethoven's thunderous 5th or the pounding bass line of the latest four-on-the-floor obsession, the new SUB will fill any room with thick layers of bottomless sound that let you hear and feel the weight of every chord, kick, splash and roll. Place it anywhere in a room, plug it into a power source, press a button and follow some simple prompts on your controller. The SUB wirelessly connects with your other Sonos components for an optimized, whole-room listening experience. Within minutes of taking it out of the box, you won't just hear the difference SUB makes-you'll feel it with every bone in your body. Whether the unit is standing up or lying down, the SUB's unique design and smart wireless signal allows you to place it anywhere you want in the room-even lying flat under a couch or bed-without any loss in sound or performance. And just like every other Sonos component, you can control the SUB from your computer, smartphone or tablet. All you have to do is download the free Sonos Controller apps for HYPERLINK "https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.sonos.acr&hl=en" Android, HYPERLINK "http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/sonos-controller-for-ipad/id392727786?mt=8" iPad, HYPERLINK "http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/sonos-controller-for-iphone/id293523031?mt=8" iPhone, HYPERLINK "http://www.sonos.com/support/" Mac or PC. The SUB works with all Sonos amplified components: CONNECT:AMP/ZonePlayer 120/ZonePlayer 100; PLAY:5; PLAY:3. It does not work with the non-amplified Sonos CONNECT/ZP90/ZP80. The SUB launches in mid-June and will be available in a high-gloss black lacquer finish for $699 USD ($749 CAD, $899 AUD, €699 EU, and £599 UK). A black matte finish will be available in October at $599 USD ($649 CAD, $799 AUD, €599 EU, and £499 UK). Features of the Sonos SUB include: Powering the SUB are two state of the art Class-D digital amplifiers that have been perfectly tuned to match the speakers and acoustic architecture. The cabinet is made from proprietary resin to create acoustically dead walls with maximum internal air volume. The SUB's specific dimensions are 15.8 x 6.2 x 15in. (402 x 158 x 380mm) with a weight of 36.3 lbs (16kgs). Full SUB specifications, details and a video can be found at To find out more about Sonos or to locate an authorized Sonos dealer in your area, please visit sonos.com or call 877.80.SONOS.
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| Posted: 22 May 2012 07:00 AM PDT Welcome to Panasonic's first attempt to crack the increasingly competitive world of Android phones outside of Japan. Its efforts have crystallized into a plastic slab that had a curious appeal when we first handled it at Mobile World Congress a few months ago. We were surprised at how comfortable it felt in the hand and while its spec sheet won't cause any jaws to drop, there's plenty of respectable features -- a 4.3-inch AMOLED display, dual-core processor and a very solid, soft-finish shell that protects that delicate Android hardware against dust and water. Panasonic's not the only Japanese manufacturer looking to branch out from a contracting domestic market, however, and we have a few concerns with whether the Eluga (£370 / $583) can make a dent in European countries dominated by Apple, Samsung and HTC. Will it bring the same awkward Android skins found on several Japan-only Android phones? Is it really all that waterproof? Dive in after the break to see. Hardware
Panasonic kept the design ethos simple and clean -- and it's paid off. While the top and bottom edges are straight, the sides gently taper from front to back, widening to a flat 7.8mm surface at the phone's thickest point. Despite being light and enveloped in plastic, the Eluga holds steady in the hand, and there's no unseemly creak -- presumably due to the non-removable battery and waterproof shell. The matte plastic covers the entirety of the back, while both the top and bottom have a glossier finish. Along the bottom edge, it's interrupted only by a space for the call mic. On the top edge are waterproof covers for both the micro-USB port and micro-SIM card, while the headphone socket, located between the two, is left open to the elements. Not that it matters all that much, as the Eluga borrows one of Japan's more popular phone tricks by waterproofing the whole device -- provided you keep the micro-USB and micro-SIM covers closed (something the phone will constantly remind you of when you boot it up). While it stands up to rainfall, spillages and the obligatory throw-the-phone-into-a-bowl-of-water test, the device won't function underwater. In fact, any water on the touchscreen surface will interact with the device -- frustrating if you want to use the device in a watery setting, but the handset will at least survive the encounter. The non-replaceable battery is an inadequate-sounding 1,150mAh -- more on that in our battery test section. However, the biggest oversight is on-board storage, with just over 4GB of useable space. There is no option to expand this through microSD storage. It's a pretty miserly offering and we soon filled it up with a handful of Spotify playlists, apps and camera shots. The phone's face is (nearly) all screen, with a relatively minor black trim outlining the 4.3-inch AMOLED display. This includes the single speaker that doubles as the ear piece, located above the screen. It isn't the best-sounding smartphone speaker and cranking up the volume on our latest Spotify playlists resulted in heavy distortion and a generally tinny sound -- although that's what headphones are for. Three capacitive buttons are tightly grouped along the base of the phone. Panasonic has gone with a three-button layout similar to Samsung's international handsets, with keys for menu, home and navigating backward. Each is signified by an icon and a light-up dot, although you'll need to recall which dot is which in low-light settings, as the icons themselves remain unlit. The steeply contoured sides are home to both the power button and volume rocker, but they didn't seem as awkward as the Xyboard 10.1's power button. Instead, they felt just barely accessible. For us, it's still preferable to placing the buttons along the top edge-- especially on a bigger-screened device like the Eluga. The 8-megapixel autofocus camera stood out from the largely blank back, with no companion flash. NFC is neatly printed below the lens and there's even a spare card included in the box to test out the feature. Screen Alongside that classy design, the AMOLED screen remains one of the best features of the Eluga -- despite its PenTile nature. The 4.3-inch, qHD (960 x 540) display proves that Panasonic's on the right track with its phone screens. While it finds itself squarely in the middle of the smartphone screen league, it's a confident first effort. Viewing angles are strong and the AMOLED technology keeps those blacks black, but anyone with PenTile issues will find the same off-white hues are still here. Camera This is where the drawbacks begin. Despite Panasonic's heavy involvement with cameras, the Eluga bears all the hallmarks of a beginner smartphone maker. There's no flash, and while eight megapixels has become the standard for middleweight Android phones and above, we were underwhelmed with the results and frustrated with the UI. Our photos were noisy even in decent lighting, and lacked the pop of more established smartphone families. Following a general trend with recent Android devices, there's no dedicated camera button and no way of locking focus and exposure to reframe shots. The camera UI itself is rather unwieldy. Panasonic offers up a selection of point-and-shoot features, including a beauty mode (which detects faces and adds some smoothing and extra color), a collage mode that will split a single frame into three different shots and a panorama mode. Unfortunately, the camera app would forget your settings -- including the pretty important focus mode you've chosen, typically defaulting to a face detection setting. Fortunately, there is a touch-focus feature, and the camera is quick to adjust to lighting differences. The Eluga can capture up to 720p video that, while capable of auto-focus, lacks any manual control once you're rolling. The outcome was relatively crisp video and focus is generally quick to adjust, while the colors generally matched their real world subjects.
Performance and battery lifeThe Eluga runs on a pretty dated 1GHz dual-core TI OMAP 4430 processor -- a Motorola staple -- alongside 1GB of RAM. While it's enough to power through most smartphone tasks, it's certainly not the most capable and doesn't hold a candle to Qualcomm's latest delights or NVIDIA's quad-core Tegra 3 -- something clearly demonstrated in both our benchmarks and real-life testing.
Swiping between home screens feels twitchy, as the wallpaper stutters along behind widgets and apps. The web browser also underwhelms -- it's frustratingly slow and has a curious knack for switching off the screen when jumping to the browser from other apps. Despite a factory reset, we couldn't get the phone to avoid doing it --and this is a device that's already been on sale for several months. The phone would often seize up during use, with the touchscreen becoming completely unresponsive -- not a good sign on an OS as mature as Gingerbread. Panasonic's decision to make such a slight phone comes at a cost -- and that's battery life. The 1,150mAh capacity certainly doesn't sound like much and in our tests we didn't get much. Running constant video playback with WiFi on and the brightness fixed at 50 percent, the Eluga could only muster up a paltry four and a half hours of playback. Panasonic attempted to ameliorate this with a relatively swift charging function -- you can expect the phone to re-juice from empty to full in less than three hours. With more regular use we found ourselves nervously reaching for the charger halfway through the day. We could just about manage a day on a single charge, but we certainly didn't feel confident spending a whole day out of the office without a standby charging option. Software The Eluga messes up several things here. Besides the performance issues outlined above, Panasonic added some heavy-handed touches to the standard Android Gingerbread experience. The app drawer is a mess, organizing your programs into pre-installed, downloaded and updated divisions. There's no automatic option to reorganize them alphabetically or in any sensible order -- it's an entirely manual affair. Personalizing the taskbar on the homescreen is similarly confusing and laborious. There's also a dearth of widgets, including any stock email options, while some of them, like the digital clock, are just plain ugly, with oddly spaced characters and a severe lack of imagination. It's also worth noting these revisions come atop an older Android release. While we're promised an update to Android 4.0 this summer, we have an increasingly short fuse due to manufacturers continuing to sell new devices with old Android versions. The phone does add a few extra software features to strengthen its offering, though, including a lightweight NFC application, which allows you to use the pre-packaged card to launch an app or adjust the phone's homescreen when they come into contact. There's also an eco mode, which attempts to automate those settings adjustments made to desperately eke out a longer battery life. You can set the level at which the phone switches to the power-saving mode, and even adjust what that mode involves, from dimming the display to switching off unnecessary wireless connections. Expect to set the automated adjustment to 40 percent -- we reckon you're going to need it. Wrap-up We were hoping for just a little more. The Eluga doesn't embarrass itself, with a subtle, appealing design and a capable screen. But while it can shrug off watery dangers, it can't do the same to serious software hiccups and missing elements -- like decent media storage, a camera flash and (at this price) a more competent processor. We wanted to welcome a new contender to a very hectic Android smartphone battle royale, but, at the moment, we have an also-ran. Panasonic has more than one chance to get it right -- hopefully it's learned a few lessons here. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Google glasses gets raft of new patents, sniffs lawsuits coming from miles away Posted: 22 May 2012 06:31 AM PDT Google will find four more granted patents for Project Glass sitting on its over-sized doorstep this morning. The company can now claim rights over the design of the right half of the device, where the camera hangs over the eye and where the innards are housed within the band along the side. It's also patented the nose-pad sensor that knows when it's being worn, plus the ability to represent ambient sounds on the screen with range and direction info. Finally, it's also got rights on using each eyepiece as a separate display, with the example shown above demonstrating a map in one eye and navigation instructions in the other. The more we sift through the paperwork, the more we're reminded of the Dominion Warship headsets from Deep Space Nine -- but that could be just because we've been locked indoors for too long. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Google officially closes deal for Motorola Mobility Posted: 22 May 2012 06:03 AM PDT Months in the making -- the deal is finally done. Motorola Mobility is officially part of Google. After receiving blessings from Europe, the US and China, the Internet giant has put the finishing touches on its purchase of Moto's mobile division. Though the corporate marriage faced plenty of obstacles, Big G was able to put the manufacturer on its ledger for the price of $40 per share, or about $12.5 billion. As it stands, Motorola Mobility will continue to operate as a separate business entity and as a licensee of Android, but Mountain View is still claiming the purchase will allow it to "supercharge" its mobile ecosystem. The future of the new subsidiary's employees is a different matter, however. Rumors have been swirling for the last week or so that there could be significant layoffs at Moto following the merger, which would further enforce the perception that Google is more interested in the company's patents than in entering the hardware business. Of course, whether or not we'll see layoffs or perhaps a Moto-branded Nexus is still a mystery. For a bit more on Google's victory lap, check out the PR after the break. Update: Google has also settled on a replacement for Sanjay Jha as CEO of Motorola Mobility, Dennis Woodside. Woodside is a longtime Googler who got his start in sales, building out business in Africa, Eastern Europe and Russia, before becoming President of the Americas sales operation. Google Acquires Motorola Mobility The acquisition will enable Google to supercharge the Android ecosystem and will enhance competition in mobile computing. Motorola Mobility will remain a licensee of Android and Android will remain open. Google will run Motorola Mobility as a separate business. Sanjay Jha, who revived Motorola's Mobile Devices business and led the company through this acquisition, has stepped down as CEO, although he will continue to work with Google to help ensure a smooth transition. Dennis Woodside, who has overseen integration planning for the acquisition and previously served as President of Google's Americas region, has become CEO of Motorola Mobility. Larry Page, CEO of Google, said, "I'm happy to announce the deal has closed. Motorola is a great American tech company, with a track record of over 80 years of innovation. It's a great time to be in the mobile business, and I'm confident that the team at Motorola will be creating the next generation of mobile devices that will improve lives for years to come. "Sanjay Jha, who was responsible for building the company and placing a big bet on Android, has stepped down as CEO. I would like to thank him for his efforts and am tremendously pleased that he will be working to ensure a smooth transition as long-time Googler Dennis Woodside takes over as CEO of Motorola Mobility. "I've known Dennis for nearly a decade, and he's been phenomenal at building teams and delivering on some of Google's biggest bets. Dennis has always been a committed partner to our customers and I know he will be an outstanding leader of Motorola--and he's already off to great start with some very strong new hires for the Motorola team." Dennis Woodside, CEO of Motorola Mobility, said: "Motorola literally invented the entire mobile industry with the first-ever commercial cell phone in 1983. Thirty years later, mobile devices are at the center of the computing revolution. "Our aim is simple: to focus Motorola Mobility's remarkable talent on fewer, bigger bets, and create wonderful devices that are used by people around the world." Dennis Woodside has hired a small number of leaders who will immediately join Motorola's executive team, including Regina Dugan (former Director of DARPA), Mark Randall (former supply chain VP at Amazon and previously at Nokia), Vanessa Wittman (former CFO of Marsh & McLennan), Scott Sullivan (former head of HR at Visa and NVIDIA), and Gary Briggs (former Google VP of Consumer Marketing). In addition to these new leaders, many members of Motorola Mobility's team will continue in their current roles: Iqbal Arshad (Product Development), Marshall Brown (Chief of Staff), Fei Liu (Mass Market Products), Dan Moloney (Home), Scott Offer (General Counsel), Mark Shockley (Sales), Mahesh Veerina (Software & Enterprise) and Jim Wicks (Consumer Experience Design). Woodside added: "Motorola Mobility has many outstanding leaders, including people who were behind the original RAZR in 2004 and recent successes like the Droid and RAZR MAXX. Our colleagues joining the team come from varied backgrounds, from DARPA to Amazon and NVIDIA, but they all share a track record of leading innovation at speed, and a great deal of excitement about the mission ahead." About Dennis Woodside About Google Inc. Forward-Looking Statements | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ooVoo opens up 12-way chat on Facebook and the iPad, gives other apps a facelift Posted: 22 May 2012 06:00 AM PDT If there's some video chat corollary to Moore's Law, ooVoo is adhering to it. Almost a year to the day after announcing six-way calls, the company is expanding its offerings to include 12-way chats on both Facebook and ooVoo's iPad app. It would seem that on FB, at least, that means true 12-way, face-to-face conversations -- an obvious one-up to Facebook's native video calling app, which is powered by Skype. On the iPad, however, that 12-way claim comes with a substantial quid pro quo: while you can partake in chat with 12 people at once, you can only view up to four people's streams at a time. Moving on, folks using ooVoo on Android or the iPhone will notice some UI tweaks starting today, while people plugged into the desktop version will be treated to a more drastic overhaul. Rounding out the list of newsy bits, the ability to record and upload video chats to YouTube, Facebook and Twitter is now free. You can get your update on now at ooVoo.com, the Apple App Store or Google Play, and we've got one last screen shot after the break to help illustrate what's on tap.
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| UK's Bemilo pay-as-you-go mobile service gives greater control to worrisome parents Posted: 22 May 2012 05:39 AM PDT Operating on Vodafone's network, Bemilo is a new pay-as-you-go mobile service in the UK that aims to give parents greater control over their child's use of a mobile phone. Among the features, one can specifically set which hours during the day that the phone can be operated (the only exception being calls to mom or dad), which websites can be visited and who the child may contact. Further in the name of safety, all picture and video messages are disallowed from the get-go, and parents can even review their children's text messages -- even after they've been deleted. The Bemilo service runs £2.95 per month, on a month-to-month basis, whereas calls and voicemail access are charged at 10 pence per minute. Text messages run a similar 10p, but data usage will be levied at a steeper 25p per megabyte -- cost-conscious parents may wish to nix this usage entirely. Bemilo's required SIM card may be purchased either directly through the company's website or its partner, Carphone Warehouse. As for the company's mascot, Milo, that's one cute character that your kids will surely resent. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Sidecar comes out of beta, reinvents phone calls Posted: 22 May 2012 05:00 AM PDT Smartphones have revolutionized how we communicate and the way we create, share and consume content. Yet there's one aspect of using these devices that remains stuck in the last millennium, and that's the calling experience -- yes, apparently some people still make phone calls. Sure, there are plenty of VoIP and video calling apps out there, but few are simple and beautiful. Enter Sidecar, a free app which aims to reinvent the way we make phone calls by adding messaging as well as real-time video, photo, location and contact sharing to that antiquated calling experience. It achieves this through an intuitive and polished user interface plus a handful of standards such as SIP and XMPP. Phone calls between Sidecar users are free anywhere in the world -- the app even supports free WiFi calling to any number in the US or Canada. While Sidecar's been available in beta on Android for several weeks, it's launching on iOS today with support for the iPhone and iPod touch. We've been using the app on and off for a few days on several handsets, including a Galaxy Nexus HSPA+ and an iPhone 4S and it works exactly as described. Looking for additional details? Check out the demo video and full PR after the break.
Sidecar Revolutionizes Phone Calls by Bringing "Smart Calling" to Smartphones First app to re-imagine phone calls for smartphones makes calling and sharing live See What I See video, photos, contacts and locations easy and fun for iOS and Android users SAN FRANCISCO – May 22, 2012 – Launching today, Sidecar (www.sidecar.me) is a new mobile app that brings Smart Calling to smartphones. Smart Calling allows people to share live See What I See video, brilliant photos, contact information, and locations, all while they talk. The Sidecar app is free to use and download from Apple's App Store (http://itunes.com/apps/sidecarme) or Google Play (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=me.sidecar&hl=en). In addition, people can call anyone in the U.S. or Canada for free, even if the recipient of the call is not a Sidecar user. When the call ends, the recipient will receive a text message inviting them to join Sidecar. "Until now, voice calling has sat in a silo by itself. People who wanted to do more than talk had to toggle back and forth between voice calls and whatever else they wanted to share with the person they were calling," said Rob Williams, chief executive officer of Sidecar. "Sidecar tears down these barriers and lets people easily share live video, location, photos, and contacts while they talk. The result is a more fun, engaging, and expressive conversation." With Sidecar, people can call and share: And, the price is unbeatable: "There has been tremendous innovation in smartphones in every area except the basic phone call," said Rob Glaser, chairman and co-founder of Sidecar. "Over 800 million people around the world have smartphones; the time is right to re-imagine what a phone call can be. That's the mission of Sidecar." How People Can Use Sidecar Here are some examples of how people can use Sidecar today: Sidecar Pricing & Availability For iPhone, iPod Touch and Android users, Sidecar is free to download in Apple's App Store (http://itunes.com/apps/sidecarme) or Google Play (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=me.sidecar&hl=en). Calls to other Sidecar users are free anywhere in the world. Calls to regular phone numbers in the U.S. and Canada are free over Wi-Fi. Standard carrier data charges will apply when the app is used over 3G / 4G. Company Background Sidecar is based in San Francisco and Seattle. Launched as SocialEyes in 2011, the company pivoted to Sidecar in response to the rapid adoption of smartphones and the opportunity to create a better calling experience. Sidecar founders, Rob Williams, Rob Glaser and Jeff McLeman all share extensive backgrounds in mobile, communications and consumer products. Sidecar is backed by Ignition Partners, The Webb Investment Network, Rob Glaser and other prominent individual investors. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Samsung: 'Lawyers didn't design the Galaxy S III' Posted: 22 May 2012 04:59 AM PDT Samsung design VP Chang Dong-hoon has refuted accusations that the Galaxy S III was designed "by lawyers." Responding to the reports that stated the new handset was tweaked to circumvent deliberate trade dress claims made by Cupertino in its lawsuit, he said that the redesign is part of the company's five-year plan rather than a sudden change. He went on to say that the flagship went through hundreds of iterations before the team alighted upon the model that will shortly make its way into sweaty palms all over the world. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Customer service avatars coming to JFK, La Guardia, Newark airports (video) Posted: 22 May 2012 04:44 AM PDT When you're running late, you're weighed-down with DIY in-flight entertainment and your gate number gets switched at the last minute, the last thing you need is a real-life human trying to be helpful. The Port Authority knows that, which is why it's promising to install "computerized, hologram-like avatars" in La Guardia, Newark and JFK terminal buildings by early July. The virtual assistants aren't actually holographic -- judging from the video after the break (courtesy of Transportation Nation), they appear to consist of either projected or LCD video displayed on a vaguely human-shaped static board, although given their reported $250,000 price tag we might (hopefully) be missing something. Oh, and they aren't even interactive, unless you try to push them over.
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| Alienware laptops to use Killer Wireless-N 1202 WiFi cards, guarantee a few frags at the coffee shop Posted: 22 May 2012 04:30 AM PDT Qualcomm Atheros Announces the Availability of Killer Wireless-N 1202 in Alienware Laptops | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Garmin multi-sensor controller concept replaces touchscreen interface with in-console dial rig Posted: 22 May 2012 04:00 AM PDT Garmin may be in the early stages of navigating its way from the narrow roads of portable GPS to the in-car infotainment highway, but the company appears to be on the right path, directing focus away from dedicated compact devices and towards permanent in-dash installations. The latest advancement places a greater emphasis on improving control systems, marking a potential departure from the touchscreen in favor of a console-mounted multi-controller that enables adjustments while minimizing distractions. The system combines a proximity-sensing rotary controller that displays the appropriate interface as your hand approaches, along with a touchpad and a variety of selection buttons with functionality that varies depending on the current menu. In addition to the obvious GPS module, the system would enable HVAC control, car monitoring and even smartphone app integration. The multi-sensor controller is still in the concept phase -- the project doesn't even have a proper name yet -- but it does appear to be a practical solution for future vehicle interfaces. You'll find a few more details in the blog post after the break. Garmin's multi-sensor controller concept for infotainment systems helps reduce driver distraction With the increasing use of technology and smartphones behind the wheel, driver distraction has become a concern. But technology in general is not the problem. The most important question is how it is being used and integrated into the car so that it doesn't distract drivers. Garmin's new multi-controller concept provides a new and unique way of controlling essential functions of an in-car infotainment system, such as audio, apps, communications and navigation. It is a concept development from Garmin's automotive OEM group, providing further research for enhanced reduction in driver distraction. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Hulu delivers 10 new original shows for summer, iOS app update with iPad retina display support Posted: 22 May 2012 03:50 AM PDT As the temperatures heat up, the availability of new network TV programming is falling off as it does every year, and Hulu is taking advantage of the lull to amp up its offerings of original content with ten new shows this summer. The shows include selections like Kevin Smith's Spoilers which is a chat about the summer's films, travel series Up To Speed and playground basketball comedy We Got Next. All ten shows are set to debut throughout the summer on both the free Hulu and paid Hulu Plus services. One thing subscribers don't have to wait for however, is a freshly updated version of the Hulu Plus app for iOS, which features a "re-engineered, optimized video player", new iPad GUI, support for retina display on the iPad and improved handling of AirPlay mirroring and HDMI video out. Version 2.5 can be found on iTunes, while a press release with details on all ten shows and video trailer are embedded after the break. HULU ANNOUNCES NEW ORIGINAL SERIES WITH KEVIN SMITH, PREMIERES SUMMER SLATE OF TEN ORIGINAL AND EXCLUSIVE TV SHOWS
Hulu Original Series Include Kevin Smith's "Spoilers," "Up To Speed" by Richard Linklater, and "We Got Next"
Hulu Exclusives Include Season Two of "The Booth At The End" and International TV Hits "Rev.," "The Yard," "Pramface," "Derren Brown: Inside Your Mind," "Little Mosque on the Prairie"
LOS ANGELES (May 20, 2012) – Proving that summer doesn't have to mean the start of rerun season, Hulu today announced a full slate of new original and exclusive TV shows that begin premiering on June 4th on Hulu and the Hulu Plus subscription service. Hulu's summer lineup offers new TV shows for all kinds of entertainment fans, from comedy, sci-fi, travel, reality and even a little magic. For a preview of the upcoming programming, visit www.hulu.com/hulu-summer-series. In August, Hulu will launch the highly anticipated travel series "Up To Speed" by acclaimed filmmaker Richard Linklater ("Bernie," "School of Rock," "Dazed and Confused") and starring Speed Levitch ("The Cruise"). August also brings the premiere of "We Got Next," an edgy male comedy co-created by Kenya Barris (co-creator of "America's Next Top Model") and Hale Rothstein (writer, producer of "The Game").
Hulu exclusively offers fans seven popular TV shows never before available to U.S. audiences with the premieres of "Rev.," "The Yard," "Pramface," "Derren Brown: Inside Your Mind," "The Promise" and "Little Mosque," along with the second season of the sci-fi thriller, "The Booth at the End."
HULU ORIGINAL SERIES
"Spoilers" For fans of: "Inside the Actors' Studio," "Comic Book Men," "Real Time with Bill Maher," "Conan," "The Late Show with Jimmy Fallon" Premieres: June 4, 2012 New episodes premiere every Monday beginning on June 4; Entire series available on August 6 Kevin Smith's Movie "Revue" – This multi-act film extravaganza mixes lively group chats, interviews with movie and pop culture icons and animated shorts. Each week, Kevin, special guests and movie lovers passionately sound off on the year's most anticipated summer blockbusters, gushing over their favorite scenes and debating the details frame by frame. The series, produced by SModCo, premieres on June 4th on Hulu and Hulu Plus at www.hulu.com/spoilers. Ten (10) episodes.
"Up To Speed" For fans of: "Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations," "The Cruise," "Waking Life," "Dazed and Confused," "Exit Through the Gift Shop" Premieres: August 2012 A Travel Show About The Road Less Traveled – This new travel series was created by filmmaker Richard Linklater ("Bernie," "Dazed and Confused") and represents his first foray into episodic TV storytelling. Each week "Up to Speed" follows tour guide, historian and flaneur Timothy "Speed" Levitch ("The Cruise") as he visits the monumentally-ignored monuments of America's cities, from the shoe gardens of San Francisco to the luckiest subway grate in New York City. The series, produced by Cinetic Media, premieres on Hulu and Hulu Plus in August.
Said Richard Linklater, "Speed Levitch is one of the most effusive, articulate people I know, and one of America's funniest freethinkers. Hulu has a highly engaged and intellectually curious audience, and I'm excited to give them a glimpse of Speed's unique and idiosyncratic worldview as we take the concept of a travel show and turn it on its head." For fans of: "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia," "The League," "Men of a Certain Age" Premieres: August 2012 A Bro-mantic Comedy – "We Got Next" is a raunchy, sarcastic and out-of-bounds half-hour show about a pick-up basketball team of four guys who should never have been friends in the first place. Each week, the guys' courtside banter consistently escalates into a run of terrible advice and poor decision-making. Cast includes Paul Bartholomew ("Paul The Male Matchmaker"), Lance Barber ("Big Bang Theory"), Bumper Robinson ("The Game") and Bill Fagerbakke ("Coach"). Executive produced by Kenya Barris (co-creator of "America's Next Top Model"), Hale Rothstein (writer, producer of "The Game") and E. Brian Dobbins, with co-executive producer Danny Leiner ("Harold & Kumar Go To White Castle") directing. The series premieres in August on Hulu and Hulu Plus.
Said co-creator Kenya Barris, "This is a show built around what guys do when it's just the guys. It's as raw and honest as it is ridiculous and raunchy. That's the comedy of real life. I'm excited to bring this show to Hulu." For fans of: "The Office" (U.K.), "Peep Show," "Spaced," "Parks & Recreation," "House" Premieres: June 3, 2012 New episodes premiere every Sunday beginning on June 3; Entire series available on August 26 Meet The Rev. Adam Smallbone. From a sleepy, rural parish, the newly promoted vicar has moved to the busy, inner-city world of St. Saviour's in East London. It's a world in which he has little experience, and it shows. It really shows. "Rev." is a contemporary sitcom about the enormous daily frustrations and moral conflicts of an inner-city vicar. Cast includes Tom Hollander ("Pirates of the Caribbean"), Olivia Colman, Steve Evets, Miles Jupp, Lucy Liemann, Simon McBurney and Ellen Thomas. Originally broadcast on BBC Two in the U.K., the show has received widespread critical acclaim, winning the 2011 BAFTA's "Best Sitcom," and nominated for the 2012 BAFTA's "Best Sitcom," and Hollander receiving a nod for "Best Male Performance in a Comedy Program." The series premieres on Hulu and Hulu Plus on June 3rd from BBC Worldwide Americas Digital Distribution. Six (6) episodes in season one; seven (7) episodes in season two.
"The Yard" For fans of: "South Park," "Family Guy," "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia," "Summer Heights High," "The Wire," "Archer," "Arrested Development" Premieres: June 7, 2012 New episodes premiere every Thursday beginning on June 7; Entire series available on July 12 A mockumentary miniseries that originally aired on HBO Canada, "The Yard" offers a bizarre juxtaposition of two rival cliques of elementary school children, where tension develops much like the quintessential crime-family thriller. The show has comically been referred to by Canadian television critics as "'The Wire' and 'The Sopranos' with kids." The cast and crew have respectively been nominated for the 2012 Young Artist Award and the 2011 Directors Guild of Canada Award. The series, brought to Hulu by Entertainment One (eOne) and produced by Whizbang Films, premieres on Hulu and Hulu Plus on June 7th. Six (6) episodes.
"Derren Brown: Inside Your Mind" For fans of: "Criss Angel," "Penn & Teller: Tell a Lie," "Fact or Faked," "Mythbusters," "Lie to Me," "Psych," "The Late Show with Jimmy Fallon," "Conan" Premieres: July 7, 2012 New episodes premiere every Saturday beginning on July 7; Entire series available on July 28 Derren Brown is a performer like none other in the world. He uses psychology, magic, showmanship and suggestion to achieve things that for anyone else would be impossible. In the U.K., he is multi-award winning performer and has done a variety of huge and baffling stunts including predicting the national lottery and playing Russian roulette on live TV. Brown brings his elaborate feats to U.S. audiences in this specially shot compilation. His technique challenges traditional preconceptions of magic in the grand tradition of Houdini and modern performers such as Penn & Teller, David Blaine and Criss Angel. However, Brown's mind-reading of unsuspecting, everyday people gives magic a new angle that never ceases to amaze. The series premieres on Hulu and Hulu Plus on July 7th. Four (4) episodes. "The Booth at the End" (Season Two) For fans of: "The Booth at the End" (Season One), "Lie To Me," "Bones," "Castle," "Grimm," "Touch," "Lost," "Psych," "Fringe," "The X-Files" Premieres: July 2012 Xander Berkeley, best known for his roles as "George Mason" in FOX's "24" and "Percy" in The CW's "Nikita," stars as an enigmatic man occupying the corner booth of a diner. He possesses the power to grant desires, contingent upon recipients performing mysterious tasks. This half-hour psychological thriller begs the question: "How far would you go to get what you want?" Directed by Adam Arkin ("Justified," "Grey's Anatomy"), season two premieres on Hulu and Hulu Plus in July. Five (5) episodes.
"Pramface" For fans of: "My So Called Life," "New Girl," "Awkward," "Secret Life of the American Teenager," "Up All Night," "Skins" (U.S. and U.K.), "Hart of Dixie," "One Tree Hill," "Teen Mom" Premieres: July 19, 2012 New episodes premiere every Thursday beginning on July 19; Entire series available on August 23 Jamie and Laura are two young, free and single teenagers who, after hooking up at a party, soon find they have a very big complication on their hands. Laura is pregnant. So even though they barely know each other, they now have one thing in common – and it's getting bigger. "Pramface" brings humor and heart to a tricky subject, following these two unexpected parents-to-be as they try, and frequently fail, to negotiate family, sex and what happens once nine months is up... The series premieres on Hulu and Hulu Plus on July 19th from BBC Worldwide Americas Digital Distribution. Six (6) episodes.
"The Promise" For fans of: "Homeland," "Munich," "Persepolis," "Pillars of the Earth" Premieres: August 11, 2012 New episodes premiere every Saturday beginning on August 11; Entire series available on September 1 With nearly a decade of extensive field research on the part of award-winning writer and director Peter Kosminsky, "The Promise" is a BAFTA-nominated, four-part political thriller and love story. The serial drama examines the origins of the Middle East conflict in events that took place under British rule sixty years ago. The bold and honest series cuts between the life of Erin, an 18-year old Londoner in present day Israel and Gaza, and that of her military grandfather who was part of the British peace-keeping force in Palestine at the end of the second World War. The miniseries garnered widespread critical acclaim upon its airing in the U.K. and was subsequently nominated for "Best Drama Serial" by both BAFTA and Royal Television Society. The series premieres on Hulu and Hulu Plus on August 11th. Four (4) episodes.
"Little Mosque" For fans of: "Modern Family," "Arrested Development," "Parenthood" New episode premiere every Thursday beginning on June 28; Entire series available on August 23 "Little Mosque" is a light-hearted and comedic fish-out-of-water tale about a small Muslim community that rents the parish hall of a small town church to use as a mosque. The multi award-winning, half-hour series features a cast of both Muslims and non-Muslims in storylines that the New York Times says "explore the funny side of an often misunderstood life." "Little Mosque" has received awards from around the world including the prestigious "Search for Common Ground Award" for promoting cross-cultural understanding. It has been lauded for its frank and authentic portrayal of real issues within the Muslim community as well as its delicate balance of the irreverent with the reverent. "Little Mosque" is available in 90 countries including Israel, the West Bank, Gaza, United Arab Emirates and Turkey. Produced by WestWind Pictures, "Little Mosque" will premiere on Hulu and Hulu Plus this summer. 91 episodes. This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| GitHub branches out, releases Windows client Posted: 22 May 2012 03:26 AM PDT GitHub, the version tracking and collaboration platform for developers, has proven quite popular, especially with the open source crowd. There's been one glaring issue with the dev hub, though -- lack of an easy to use Windows client. Sure, app creators could sync their changes though command line tools and SSH, but Mac devs have had a slick desktop app to call their own for sometime. Now Microsoft users get the same benefits, including the ability to merge branches and roll back changes, wrapped in pretty Metro-friendly package. You'll find more info and a download link at the source. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Ben Heck's Android-controlled pot-stirrer does (most of) the cooking for you Posted: 22 May 2012 02:54 AM PDT Ben Heck is always thinking up gadgets that make life easier, from completely hands-free luggage to a sensor system for improved cycling safety. His latest mod is meant for those of us who have burnt Ramen a few too many times. His so-called Ben-Stur Remote Control Android app works with a pot-stirring device, freeing users to stray from the kitchen while their meal is cooking. The app works via Bluetooth, and the pot-stirrer consists of an actuator arm, a chip clip, a timing belt and, of course, a wooden spoon. Heck used a Google ADK and an Arduino Uno for the control mechanism that communicates between the app and the stirrer. In the tablet app, users can check their food's temperature and control the speed of the spoon's stirring. If that whets your appetite, click the source link for more info -- and check out our Maker Faire interview with Mr. Heckendorn himself. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Microsoft Research team shatters data sorting record, wrenches trophy from Yahoo Posted: 22 May 2012 02:26 AM PDT Bruise inducing high-fives, anyone? They're handing them out in Redmond, according to one mildly injured researcher, after breaking a data sorting record Yahoo set in 2009. The ruckus surrounds a benchmark called MinuteSort, which measures how much data can be sorted in 60 seconds. Microsoft's Distributed Systems group utilized a new file system architecture, dubbed Flat Datacenter Storage, over a full bisection bandwidth network to burn through the competition. Not only did the nine-person crew best the old record nearly by a factor of three, it gave itself a handicap -- sorting 1,401 GB of data at 2 GB/s over a remote file system, forcing the system to crunch data at a slower speed than the technique is capable of. It's not all about bragging rights, however, Bing has its eye on the newfangled file system in hopes of boosting its RPM. Microsoft suspects the tech could also pick up the pace of machine learning and churn through large data sets in a jiffy. You can catch Microsoft Research's detailed explanation in all its glory at the source. Update: Commenter Mark Streich points out that while 2 GB/s may sound fast, it's certainly not speedy enough to sort 1,401 gigabytes in a single minute. To achieve that performance, simultaneous input and output speeds could hit 2GB/s on each computer used. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Sony Xperia U goes on sale at Three UK Posted: 22 May 2012 01:51 AM PDT We've been twiddling our thumbs waiting patiently for the littlest of Sony's new-look smartphone lineup, the Xperia U, to arrive in earnest. It's a bit of a relief then to see the Android 2.3 phone go on sale at Three UK. You'll be getting what we saw back in Barcelona, including Sony's Timescape interface and the trick color light-up strip. We're guessing that most will see the cheap-as-chips price as the real selling point: the Xperia U costs £170 ($269) without a plan, and it's free as in beer on a two-year contract for £23 ($36) per month. O2, Orange and T-Mobile will expand UK carrier choices soon, but if you're looking for a fresh entry point into Android, Three can take care of you today. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| PSA: Marketplace for Windows Mobile 6.x shuts down today Posted: 22 May 2012 01:25 AM PDT Still rockin' Windows Mobile 6.x? Time to check all your apps for updates one last time. Microsoft has issued a final reminder that, beginning today, the Marketplace for 6.x devices will no longer be available. This means you won't be able to browse, buy or download apps from your phone via the service. Everything you already have will, of course, work just fine, but if you needed to reinstall something -- now is the time to do it. Unless it's available direct from third party sites, in which case you'll have a little breathing space. Still, better safe than sorry. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| SpaceX Dragon is ready for launch (update: launched!), view the live stream now Posted: 22 May 2012 12:20 AM PDT After being scrubbed a few days ago, it appears we are just minutes from viewing the launch of SpaceX's Dragon capsule on a Falcon 9 rocket. The plan is to become the first private company to successfully deliver cargo to the space station, as a step towards manned missions and eventually, Mars. Launch time is officially set for 3:44AM ET, and you can view it live via NASA's UStream embedded after the break or on SpaceX's feed at the source link. Assuming all goes well it will be a few more days until we actually see the capsule dock with the ISS, and we'll keep you updated every step of the way. Update: This time the launch took place on schedule, and the Dragon capsule is on its way to space. NASA has a press conference planned for after the launch coverage ends at 5:15AM. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Exploit uses firewalls to hijack smartphones, turns friends into foes Posted: 22 May 2012 12:18 AM PDT Normally, firewalls at cellular carriers are your best friends, screening out malware before it ever touches your phone. University of Michigan computer science researchers have found that those first lines of defense could be your enemy through a new exploit. As long as a small piece of malware sits on a device, that handset can infer TCP data packet sequence numbers coming from the firewall and hijack a phone's internet traffic with phishing sites, fake messages or other rogue code. The trick works on at least 48 carriers that use firewalls from Check Point, Cisco, Juniper and other networking heavy hitters -- AT&T being one of those providers. Carriers can turn the sequences off, although there are consequences to that as well. The only surefire solution is to either run antivirus apps if you're on a mobile OS like Android or else to run a platform that doesn't allow running unsigned apps at all, like iOS or Windows Phone. Whether or not the exploit is a serious threat is still far from certain, but we'll get a better sense of the risk on May 22nd, when Z. Morley Mao and Zhiyun Qian step up to the podium at an IEEE security symposium and deliver their findings. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Maker Faire Bay Area 2012, in pictures: 3D printers, unicorns, tesla coils and zombies (video) Posted: 21 May 2012 11:33 PM PDT Did you miss Maker Faire Bay Area 2012? Did you go but want to relive the experience a little? Well look no further: we came, we saw, we conquered. As one of our friends acutely observed, you couldn't throw something this year without hitting a 3D printer. Below you'll find pictures of said 3D printers, but also unicorns, Tesla coils and yes, even zombies (!) -- all lovingly curated from the hundreds of shots we took at the event this past weekend. Craving something with a bit more meat? We've made a convenient list of our Maker Faire posts. Once you're done digesting that, hit the break for our lovely video montage.
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| Posted: 21 May 2012 10:53 PM PDT Dish Network might not start up its LTE-based 4G network until as late as 2016, but that hasn't stopped MetroPCS and T-Mobile from jointly telling the FCC that the would-be carrier needs to make some concessions for small carriers to rest easy. Both of the complaints have a common proposal that would see Dish give up 20MHz of its 40MHz space in the 2GHz range to prevent the satellite giant from using its abundant airwaves as part of a cash grab: MetroPCS and T-Mobile are worried Dish will just try for a "windfall" and sell the spectrum it doesn't need to AT&T or Verizon. While it's not asking for a sell-off, the Rural Cellular Association is still jittery about concentrations of power and wants the FCC to make Dish hit certain build-out targets, offer roaming at wholesale rates and require FCC approval for any roaming deal that would go to Big Blue or Big Red. The big carriers' advocacy group, the CTIA, is unsurprisingly against build-out demands as "unduly burdensome." FCC officials have been silent by comparison, although the agency has encouraged spreading spectrum around and proposed its own expansion requirements. You'll likely see smartphones with 2GHz frequencies at some point in the future -- it's just a matter of whether Dish or someone else slaps its logo on top. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Electric Motor Werks hands-on at Maker Faire (video) Posted: 21 May 2012 09:55 PM PDT Have a BMW 3-Series that requires major engine work? Want to convert it to electric and improve performance, ActiveE style? The folks at Electric Motor Werks have you covered. Instead of making purpose-built electric cars, the company -- which showed a converted 3-Series sedan and coupé at Maker Faire Bay Area 2012 -- provides affordable and environmentally responsible electric conversion kits for the BMW E46. These are available directly to consumers but Electric Motor Werks is also building a network of installers (via tuner / speed shops) and setting up its own facilities. We chatted with founder Val Miftakhov who gave us a tour of the prototype kit in the vehicles on display, so head past the break for more information and for our hands-on video. At the heart of the system are three banks of non-volatile (fire-proof) lithium-ion phosphate batteries which store 30-35KWh of energy. One pack is located under the hood along with the 500hp motor and its controller (which also handles regenerative braking), the second pack is located under the trunk (in the spare tire area), and the third is located under the car along with the charging system (presumably replacing the gas tank). There are two range options -- 100 miles and 180 miles (rated at a constant speed of 65mph) -- the latter sacrificing some luggage space in the trunk. Performance is impressive, at least on paper: 0-60mph in less than 6 seconds with a top speed of over 120mph. The kit provides a generous 300hp and 300ft/lb of torque, matching the specs of BMW's current 335i. It only takes 2.5 hours to fully charge the batteries from a 60A circuit and the 12KW charging system uses a standard J1772 socket compatible with both Level 1 (110V) and Level 2 (240V) charging stations. Donor cars can be either automatic or manual, the latter usually operating in second gear (and fourth gear on the highway). Inside, the vehicle continues to look and feel just like a normal 3-Series. A custom computer interfaces with BMW's stock ECU via the OBD-II port and communicates via Bluetooth with any Android tablet or phone running the company's app (iOS is not supported yet). The app displays gauges for total power, current and voltage, fuel economy (typically 90-100 MPGe), charge level and battery temperature. Upcoming app functionality includes navigation integration and settings for performance / economy driving modes. Pricing starts at $15,000 and Electric Motor Werks is now taking orders. Future plans include electric conversion kits for the 5-Series (likely the BMW E39) and newer models.
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| Inrix Traffic 4 for iOS helps drivers avoid traffic congestion and estimate arrival times (video) Posted: 21 May 2012 09:01 PM PDT Love driving but hate traffic? We hear you, and so do the people at Inrix. While the company might not come to the forefront of your mind when you consider the crowded world of navigation solutions, Inrix is a significant player in the field -- even if much of its presence exists behind the scenes. The company collects and analyzes data points from nearly 100 million sources, and now it's putting that information to work with Inrix Traffic 4 for iOS. In addition to helping users avoid congestion brought on by road work, police activity, local events and traffic accidents, the app now provides drivers with optimal routes and estimated arrival times for their two most common destinations -- a feature that's somewhat reminiscent of Nokia Drive 3. Inrix also leverages its data analysis to provide users with ideal departure times and even estimate traffic congestion throughout the day based on historical information. What's more, commuters can now quickly provide these estimated arrival times and routes to loved ones and co-workers via text message or email. While the basic version of Inrix Traffic 4 is free, you'll have the option of upgrading to a premium version for $24.99, which brings traffic camera information and allows you to add more than two common destination points. We're told that Android users will soon find these features work their way across the aisle, although Inrix isn't yet ready to give a specific arrival date. If you're curious to learn more about Inrix Traffic 4, just hop the break for a demo video and the full PR.
New INRIX Traffic App for iPhone and iPad Gets Drivers Out of Gridlock Free App Puts the Power of 100 Million Traffic Reporters into the Palm of Your Hand KIRKLAND, WA - MAY 22, 2012 - INRIX, a leading international provider of traffic information and driver services, introduces a new app for the iPhone and iPad that helps drivers take control of their commute and avoid traffic. With drivers spending up to 60 hours last year idling on America's Worst Roads1, INRIX Traffic helps cut the cost of gridlock with the following time-saving features: Your Fastest Routes to Home & Work: Drivers can easily decide which route is the best choice to get around today's traffic. Only INRIX analyzes the impact accidents, sporting events, concerts and other unique local events have on traffic to deliver the fastest routes with the least delay. Recommended Departure & Travel Times: The INRIX Traffic Forecast Slider shows drivers the best options for avoiding frustrating delays now and in the future. Personalized Traffic Alerts: Drivers can uniquely tune their app to only alert them to accidents and other incidents causing delays along their route. "We're putting 100 million traffic reporters into the palm of your hand," said Kevin Foreman, INRIX Vice President of Consumer Applications. "Our latest release helps drivers never be late again." INRIX Traffic is powered by the same company relied on by leading global automakers like Audi, Ford and Toyota. INRIX covers more roads with greater accuracy than any other traffic service delivering time and fuel-saving insight to drivers for more than one million miles of highways, interstates, city streets and heavily traveled local roads in the U.S. and one million kilometers across Europe. INRIX uniquely combines insights from the world's largest community of more than 100 million daily drivers with hundreds of other sources to deliver insight accurate within 2 mph of actual traffic speeds under all driving conditions 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. INRIX at Work Besides INRIX Traffic, the company's massive archive of traffic information and advanced analytics engine are shedding new light on traffic congestion, its impacts and how to help solve them. Today's release of the INRIX Traffic Scorecard reporting on the impact of traffic congestion worldwide found drivers in America's 10 Worst Traffic Cities sit idle on average 44 hours a year in gridlock. The Top 10 Worst Traffic Cities for 2011 and the time wasted annually by drivers in these cities annually are: Honolulu (58 hours) Tuesday at 8:00 AM was the busiest morning commute hour, and Friday at 5:30 PM was the worst evening rush hour. Each weekday morning, overall national congestion peaks between 7:45 to 8:00 AM. Overall national evening congestion peaks between 5:30 and 5:45 PM. Consumers interested in learning more about the impact of traffic congestion on their own commute can view information unique to their city including how many hours they waste idle every year, the worst roads, how traffic is trending and other insights by downloading the mobile app and tapping the bar graph icon at the bottom of their home screen. The new INRIX Traffic App is available today as a free, ad-free download for iPhone; iPad and iPod Touch from the Apple App Store. To learn more about the INRIX Traffic, visit www.inrixtraffic.com. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| HTC One S teardown leaves little to the imagination (video) Posted: 21 May 2012 08:22 PM PDT Whether you're looking to replace a damaged screen, swap a battery, or just make damn sure that the warranty of your HTC One S is void, DirectFix can help with its latest teardown video. This is the first time that we've seen a detailed inner peek at the smartphone itself, and those who appreciate fine craftsmanship are sure to dig this one. To get deep within the phone, you'll need a nylon spudger, a Torx T5 and precision Phillips screwdriver, along with steady hands and -- if the display's adhesive isn't cooperating -- a hairdryer. Once the handset's back cover is removed, it becomes quite easy to see how the battery pack dominates the inner space, which is complemented up top by a blue plastic shield that includes the lens cover and protects the main board. From there, many fragile connectors must be removed before the display can be separated from the handset, which is attached with adhesive. Naturally, putting the phone back together can be a bit tricky in its own right, which makes it quite a shame that YouTube videos can't play in reverse.
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| Amazon Appstore's Test Drive try before you buy feature now available on Android phones Posted: 21 May 2012 07:43 PM PDT When Amazon's Appstore initially appeared on the Android scene last year, one of its most innovative features was a Test Drive virtual machine that let users try out apps for free from their desktop, and now that technology has come back to the handset. In the newest update pushed today and pictured above, release-2.6.53 adds beta support for the cloud-based Test Drive feature to let users try out new software within the Appstore app itself. According to the description the feature is enabled on "select" Android phones and apps, although we didn't find any to try it out with on our Galaxy S II. Check for an update within the app to try it out for yourself or click the Appstore link below from your phone to snag the latest version. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Virgin Mobile adds $40 payLo unlimited plan for talk and text types Posted: 21 May 2012 07:14 PM PDT Virgin Mobile's feature phone arm just added a third tier, delivering unlimited talk and texting, along with 50 megs of web access for $40 per month. This offering joins Sprint's other payLo budget offerings, including an entry-level option that includes 400 minutes of talk time for $20 per month, and a $30 monthly plan that delivers 1,500 minutes, 1,500 texts and 30MB of data. Overage charges are quite hefty, at $0.10 per minute, $0.25 per message and $1.50 per MB (ouch!), with the option to reset the counter instead by starting a new month once you hit the threshold. Considering that the plans are designed for feature phones (which are seldom used for anything but basic web access), the tier limits do sound manageable -- perhaps even a deal, if you talk a lot and never browse the web. The payLo plan can be paired with any of Virgin's feature phones, which range in price from $15 (for a sold-out LG101) to $50 (for a QWERTY-equipped Kyocera S2300). Get the full scoop from Sprint in the PR after the break. Talk 'n' Texters Get More on payLo New $40 Unlimited Talk and Text plan ideal for consumers with moderate usage on feature phones WARREN, N.J. (BUSINESS WIRE), May 21, 2012 - The no-contract market continues to grow, most visibly with smartphones but also for those traditional customers who want value with unlimited plans but who don't need all the bells and whistles. Today, payLo by Virgin Mobile announces a $40 monthly Unlimited Talk and Text plan that provides even more value. Customers get unlimited voice minutes and messages (text, picture, email and/or IM) plus 50MB of Web access. The $40 monthly plan is ideal combined with payLo's affordable and dependable feature phones including the Samsung M575. At just $49.99, the M575 packs power with a slide-out QWERTY keyboard for texters, a bright 2.4-inch screen, Virgin Mobile Navigator, 2MP camera and camcorder, Bluetooth® and easy access to the Web. The feature phone also supports microSD cards to safely store and transfer music, photos and video.1 "Even with the huge increase in data usage, there are still millions of people who mainly talk and text," said Mark Lederman, director, payLo, "and they deserve reliable service and phones. Half of our current payLo customers are primarily talking and texting, and now we're providing to them unlimited value that suits their needs." With payLo by Virgin Mobile, there are no activation fees and no long-term contracts. Adding to a monthly balance is simple with payLo or Virgin Mobile Top-Up cards, or with a credit/debit card or PayPal account online. payLo offers Top-Up cards in various denominations, which can be used to purchase monthly service and other such items as international calling, ringtones and downloads. Last year, Kiplinger's Personal Finance magazine cited payLo's Talk & Text plan on The Best List 2011 for "cheap-talk-text-surf" cellphone plans.2 About payLo by Virgin Mobile payLo by Virgin Mobile, one of Sprint's prepaid brands, offers affordable alternatives to long-term wireless contracts for cellphone users seeking more basic communication services. payLo branded handsets are available at more than 40,000 retail stores, including Best Buy, RadioShack and Target. Top-Up cards are available at approximately 150,000 locations nationwide. Purchase and experience payLo on the Web at http://www.virginmobileusa.com/cell-phone-plans/paylo-plans.jsp. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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