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- Nikon recalls battery packs sold with D800 and D7000 DSLRs due to burn hazard
- Researcher details method for teaching computers to win at board games through short training videos
- Editorial: Ouya's success is opportunity missed for Microsoft, Nintendo and Sony
- Tweetbot for Mac arrives as free alpha, we give a quick hands-on
- HTC EVO 4G LTE firmware update begins rollout today, exterminates the bugs
- Jelly Bean spreads the butter to Amazon's Kindle Fire in unofficial beta build (video)
- RIM patent uses motion, CAPTCHAs to stop texting while driving, shows a fine appreciation of irony
- Samsung drops universal search from Sprint's Galaxy S III
- ThinkGeek's Mark VII Sonic Screwdriver universal remote pleases Whovians in time for Comic-Con
- Apple sunsets a few 64-bit Macs with Mountain Lion, video drivers likely the culprit
- Jawbone Jambox gets Android app support, semi-ironic silent mode
- Samsung's Stephen Woo to kick off day two of CES with keynote
- Google and Sustrans join forces, bring bike navigation to UK Maps
- GameCircle brings achievements, save game sync to Amazon's tablet
- SugarSync to ship with many Samsung mobile devices, make Galaxy S III a home away from home
- Tep Wireless unveils European-wide hotspot rental service for $5-a-day, 1GB of data included
- Starbucks Android app gets caffeinated update, also launches in UK and Canada
- Rovio's Amazing Alex arrives on Android and iOS July 12th, bosses everywhere weep for lost productivity (video)
- Griffin's MIDIConnect now available at $80 to make beautiful music with your iDevice (video)
- OnLive reaffirms support for Marvell powered ARM Google TV boxes
- Pure unleashes Contour 100i iDevice speaker with swiveling dock
- London Underground: NFC mobile payment technology 'too slow' for the tube
- Wilson Electronics' Sleek 4G-V Verizon flavored signal booster reports for service
- Reported new DARPA chief brings true geek, dash of green tech controversy
- 36.7 million FPS camera revolutionized cancer screening, next comes combat sports
- T-Mobile to incentivize select 2G subscribers with upgrade offers during five-city US pilot
- HTC confirms another tablet coming to the UK
- Nokia hits RIM with another triple-patent combo punch
- Airbus Electronic Flight Bag apps save iPad savvy pilots time and paper
- Green Automotive to acquire Land Rover-converter Liberty Electric for $17 million
- Motorola MOTOSMART comes to UK in July: we go hands-on
- Ouya gaming console raises $2 million on Kickstarter, doesn't know what to do with it
- Researchers store memory bit on a lone molecule, could pave the way for petabyte SSDs
- WSJ chimes in on Amazon smartphone rumors, says 4- to 5-inch device is in testing
- Magellan eXplorist 510 Marine Edition sets sights on boaters, out in time for Talk Like a Pirate Day
- Viacom channels disappear from DirecTV after the two companies can't reach a deal
- T-Mobile myTouch and myTouch Q coming August 8th for $50, we go hands-on
- Myanmar plans to open doors to foreign telcos for affordable cellular, internet service
- Samsung Galaxy Note for AT&T devours Ice Cream Sandwich and Premium Suite apps
- Graphene heals itself, powers our dreams and nightmares
| Nikon recalls battery packs sold with D800 and D7000 DSLRs due to burn hazard Posted: 11 Jul 2012 11:23 AM PDT Some important news for anyone who bought a Nikon D800 or D7000 DSLR earlier this year. The US Consumer Product Safety Commission and Health Canada announced today that the battery packs sold with the cameras are part of a voluntary recall due to a potential burn hazard. While there's been no injuries reported, Nikon says it has received seven reports outside of North America of the battery packs overheating. The recall encompasses 5,100 batteries in the US (sold in March and April) and 1,100 in Canada (sold in February and March), plus an additional 195,000 battery packs worldwide. Those with one of the battery packs in question are advised to remove it from their camera and contact Nikon directly for a free replacement. Complete details can be found at the source link below. |
| Researcher details method for teaching computers to win at board games through short training videos Posted: 11 Jul 2012 11:16 AM PDT All right, hotshot -- sure, you can trounce your five-year-old niece in a round of Connect Four, but are you ready to do battle with a machine? Łukasz Kaiser of Paris Diderot University in France has detailed a method for teaching computers how to learn relatively simple games like Tic-Tac-Toe, Breakthrough and the aforementioned eternal vertical struggle between checker pieces, using quick videos generally under two minutes in length. "The presented algorithm requires only a few demonstrations and minimal background knowledge," Kaiser explains, in his paper Learning Games from Videos Guided by Descriptive Complexity, "and, having learned the rules, automatically derives position evaluation functions and can play the learned games competitively." Kaiser adds, having taken on the world of Tic-Tac-Toe and other relatively simple games that, "there is strong theoretical evidence that it will generalize to other problems." Now if only we can sum up the world's issues Connect Four-style, we should be covered. |
| Editorial: Ouya's success is opportunity missed for Microsoft, Nintendo and Sony Posted: 11 Jul 2012 10:49 AM PDT While today's videogames are bigger, flashier and more impressive than ever, it's hard not to think that the golden era of console gaming is behind us. Back in the late '80s and early-to-mid '90s, when a new console came out every couple of years to cut its predecessors off at the knees and brutally savage the bank accounts of the hardcore gamer who had to have them all, there was genuine excitement. Now, with modern consoles showing their age and throwing on more and more gimmicks like so much makeup to compensate, it's hard to really get properly enthused about any of them. Out of nowhere came Ouya and, based on the $2.6 million it raised in 24 hours alone, it's safe to say it has succeeded in renewing that excitement. That's a stark contrast to the general feeling of malaise at this year's E3. I'm excited too -- but cautiously so.
I don't have all the old consoles, but I'm happy to say I have most -- there's a Genesis with the 32X and Sega CD add-ons, an Atari Jaguar, a trio of beige and brown Atari consoles and, of course, the obligatory NES and SNES, plus a lot more. I still remember the overwhelming excitement leading up to a console release, the early pictures in Nintendo Power or EGM, the speculation, the rumors and the anticipation of great games with great graphics to come. Best of all, the allure of the next generation was never more than a couple years away.
That's 180 degrees away from today's state of console gaming. Our primary consoles, Microsoft's Xbox 360 and Sony's PS3, have stopped being toys and started being household appliances. Last year, Nielsen found that people spend more time watching Netflix and the like on their consoles than actually playing videogames on the things, and that's something of a sorry state of affairs. I'm as guilty as anyone when it comes to the domestication of my prized gaming machines. I, too, am more often whittling away at my Netflix queue or streaming something over DLNA on my Xbox than saving political prisoners in Gotham City or collecting loot in Borderlands. Before launching the original big, green Xbox, Microsoft wanted for decades to find a way to dominate the living room. With the Xbox 360, it has succeeded with flying colors but, in dragging this console generation out for nearly seven years, both MS and Sony have sucked the excitement out of console ownership.
Traditionally, videogame consoles were put to pasture just as they hit their stride. Like an NFL quarterback who slips on a Super Bowl ring before promptly walking off the field for good, or a Formula One driver who hoists the championship trophy and then announces his retirement, these consoles went out on a high. Because of this, we have fond, untarnished memories of those great systems of the past. Now, I can't escape the feeling that modern consoles are just hanging around, collecting a paycheck for as long as their achy knees and frazzled nerves will allow. Sure, they have some new tricks to keep things exciting, but those tricks are almost universal failures. Neither Microsoft's Kinect nor Sony's PlayStation Move have succeeded in delivering anything close to a next-gen gameplay experience, serving only as pricey accessories to keep the golden eggs flowing out of a pair of tired, old geese. And we can't forget the third major player. It is of course Nintendo's Wii that was the driving force behind both of those accessories, and Nintendo is the first among the big three to stride bravely into the next generation with the Wii U, slated to launch sometime before the end of this year. Kudos to Nintendo for being the first to move on, but even that console's upcoming launch feels less like an exciting march to a blockbuster release and more of a grueling hike toward a too-familiar destination. The Wii U, when it's released, will have graphics little (if at all) better than the Xbox 360 or PS3. Because of that, it depends on a fancy new controller with a (resistive) touchscreen. It's through this that we're again promised a next-generation gameplay experience. I'll buy one when it comes out and give it a fair shake, but at this point, after sampling the thing at two successive E3s, I'm not optimistic that the Wii U will deliver any more excitement to my living room than its predecessor did.
So, then, why care about a $99 videogame console from a no-name company with no established first-party games lined up? There are plenty of reasons to expect the worst, not the least being a set of hardware specs no more impressive than a modern smartphone. Even worse, it runs an operating system that has thus far shown to be ill-suited for serious gaming. Android has done less to wow serious gamers than the PlayStation Move, offering an amazing selection of mediocre games that almost universally look bad on a 4-inch display. How are they going to look on a 60-inch HDTV? Despite that, I'm excited for a few reasons, first because this is a very developer-focused box. Sony shot itself in the foot with the PS3 when it created a notoriously tricky system. Quality titles were slow to come and few truly managed to best the supposedly under-powered competition on the graphical front. The Ouya is positioned from the beginning to be a box for developers -- in fact there's no expensive dev kit to buy. Each Ouya console is a dev kit, and digital distribution means there's no need for publisher or retail agreements. This can and will mean an overwhelming flood of crapware, but it also opens the door to more and better indie developers. The next Braid or Super Meat Boy could happen here. I'm also excited because this is a box focused on gaming. Yes, on playing games on your television! Look at the Ouya Kickstarter page and you'll find nary a mention of Netflix or Hulu, the closest being a note that you can watch professional gamers on Twitch.TV. Sure, it's Android, and all those zillions of media apps for that OS will presumably come along for the ride, but the focus is gaming. I like that.
More importantly, the focus is on traditional console gaming -- that is, games not where I am the controller, but games where the controller is the controller. Finally, I'll be honest that I'm excited because this is something new, and I would have to assume that the 24,000 (as I write this) backers are also excited. It seems apparent to me that the current console cycle has dragged on for too long. Gamers are craving something different, and if the Ouya is a success, it could usher us into a new golden age of gaming, a time when there was room for crazy systems like the vector-driven Vectrex and three-sided Coleco Telstar Arcade. But will the Ouya be a success? It's too early to say. Sure, it's raised over $2.5 million in a day, and that's impressive for a nobody, but let's put that in context. When Nintendo launched the Wii in Japan it moved 370,000 consoles in two days for approximately $80 million in sales. It would go on to rake in $190 million in the first week of availability in the Americas. This is the power of mainstream success. The most damning concern on my mind regarding Ouya is that it follows in the footsteps of other tepidly received independent and open gaming systems like the EVO 2, GP2X and the Pandora handheld. All have had similar mission statements and none have taken the world by storm. The Ouya has at least succeeded in piquing the interest of both gamers and developers, but whether that will translate to long-term success remains to be seen. I hope it does. I was among the first couple hundred people to pitch in $95 primarily because I'm ready for something new, something different, and something that is totally gimmick-free. |
| Tweetbot for Mac arrives as free alpha, we give a quick hands-on Posted: 11 Jul 2012 10:33 AM PDT Seemingly anyone who's used an iPhone (and often the iPad) knows Tweetbot -- it's often the go-to Twitter app for those who prefer not to go the official route. It's to those users' delight, then, that Tapbots just posted a free alpha version of Tweetbot for Mac. As you'd anticipate, it's an attempt to bring much of the app's power user mojo to the desktop world: you can check just retweets of your content, mute overly chatty people or hashtags, and otherwise get more control than just watching your stream drift by. It's even (mostly) Retina-ready for that new MacBook Pro. Alpha does mean that there will be a fair amount of things missing; it won't tap into iCloud or Mountain Lion's Notification Center until it's official, for example. But if you're willing to deal with that and a few potential bugs, it may be time to brush other apps aside -- just note that you'll need Mountain Lion or newer when the app is ready to face the Mac App Store, even though it works with Lion today. We've had a quick spin with the app, and it largely does what it says on the tin: it's Tweetbot, on the Mac. The primary differences are changes that make sense when a mouse pointer and a larger screen area are available. You can reply, retweet, or view whole conversations from buttons that appear as you hover, rather than using the myriad taps and swipes of the iOS apps. It's a wonderfully minimalist app, if that's your thing, and you can open multiple windows (currently through a keyboard shortcut) to get some of that TweetDeck-style power user layout. Our main gripe? Tweetbot on the Mac always updates in a live stream, and there's no option for intervals; if you follow a lot of people, there's a chance you might miss something. Still, for an alpha, it's a decidedly polished and useful effort that doesn't leave us wanting like a few clients, including Twitter's own. |
| HTC EVO 4G LTE firmware update begins rollout today, exterminates the bugs Posted: 11 Jul 2012 10:06 AM PDT Sprint's EVO 4G LTE has seen all sorts of setbacks and obstacles since its official announcement -- a customs roadblock and the lack of a live LTE network, most notably. Regardless, it's the flagship of choice on the Hesse-led carrier's lineup and, as any subscriber that's opted in for the device can vouch, an inherently buggy one, at that. To remedy that slew of software inconsistencies, a firmware update's begun rolling out today, bringing with it much needed fixes for WiFi connection issues, security and Google Wallet, amongst others. Aggrieved users can manually pull the patch now by navigating to the handset's settings menu and checking for it there or simply sit back and wait for the system update to make an inevitable appearance. Toes crossed this OTA release squashes that bothersome software infestation for good. |
| Jelly Bean spreads the butter to Amazon's Kindle Fire in unofficial beta build (video) Posted: 11 Jul 2012 09:45 AM PDT Jelly Bean(s) for everyone -- essentially, that's just what Google's done for the tech savvy underground with 4.1.1's release in AOSP. Not two days after that source code was made available, has a developer by the name of Hashcode worked to get an early build up and running on Amazon's Kindle Fire. If you'll remember, that Bezos-backed slate runs a heavily customized UX with Gingerbread buried deep at its core and official plans for a software update beyond its 2.3 underpinnings have not been announced. So, for adventurous owners that are sick of living in the software-past, but aren't quite ready to part ways with 200 bills for that very now Nexus 7, a beta ROM is at the ready. Naturally, you'll need to have your device rooted and loaded with a custom recovery to get things going but, take note, this work-in-progress is far from complete: hardware video acceleration isn't yet supported and WiFi is somewhat unstable. Fixes are assuredly on the way, so the less carefree might want to abstain from flashing at the moment. For everyone else, you can find the necessary downloads at the source below and, while you're at it, check out the video tour after the break. Update: Looks like the crew got Google's apps (Play Store, Gmail, etc.) working as well as WiFi. Check out the updated tour video here.
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| RIM patent uses motion, CAPTCHAs to stop texting while driving, shows a fine appreciation of irony Posted: 11 Jul 2012 09:28 AM PDT More and more people understand that texting while driving is a bad idea, but RIM has just been granted a patent that would have smartphones step in before things get out of hand. Going beyond just filtering inbound messages like some motion-based lockdown apps, the BlackBerry maker's invention also turns off the creation of any outbound messages as long as the phone is moving within a given speed range. The override for the lock is the dictionary definition of ironic, however: the technique makes owners type out the answer to a CAPTCHA challenge onscreen, encouraging the very problem it's meant to stop. As much as we could still see the hassle being enough to deter some messaging-addicted drivers, we have a hunch that the miniscule hurdle is a primary reason why the 2009-era patent hasn't found its way into a shipping BlackBerry. Maybe RIM should have chronic texters solve a Rubik's Cube instead. |
| Samsung drops universal search from Sprint's Galaxy S III Posted: 11 Jul 2012 09:11 AM PDT Sprint's latest OTA update to its new flagship jewel, the Galaxy S III, addressed some security niggles, but the download remained otherwise fuzzy on the details. It now appears the update also nixes the universal search function, meaning the handy box now directs to the web upon entry. It's likely a response to recent legal hairpulling between Apple and the Samsung-made Galaxy Nexus -- a phone which has the very same search capabilities. As Android Central notes, those looking to return the search option can hit up a download of the previous version in their forums. Visit the source to grab it while you can. |
| ThinkGeek's Mark VII Sonic Screwdriver universal remote pleases Whovians in time for Comic-Con Posted: 11 Jul 2012 08:55 AM PDT Ever wished you too could make use of the awesome powers that lie within Dr. Matt Smith's Mark VII Sonic Screwdriver? Well, it's still not exactly a reality in the way of the space-bred handyman's gadget seen on Doctor Who, but ThinkGeek and The Wand Company have you covered if an IR-packing replica universal remote sounds good enough. This BBC-licensed Mark VII remote handles up to 39 commands that are all controlled using 13 different motion gestures. Of course, if controlling the likes of TV and AV devices in an extraterrestrial fashion just isn't your thing, there's always ThinkGeek's Sonic Screwdriver flashlight, right? Update: Video demo added after the break.
Change Channels, Control Time, Save the World ThinkGeek and The Wand Company Unveil World's First Working Sonic Screwdriver A high quality metal replica of the Mark VII Sonic Screwdriver currently used by the Eleventh Doctor, Matt Smith, the Sonic Screwdriver Universal Remote Control is a gesture-based remote. Utilizing infrared (IR) technology it is able to manipulate almost all Earth-based home entertainment systems – from TVs to iPod docks and beyond. Through the piece's advanced gesture recognition technology, wielders of this powerful tool can put the power of 39 commands in the palm of their hand. Chris Barnardo, Co-founder of The Wand Company says, "As well as being a universal remote control, the new Sonic Screwdriver will have a host of other great gadget features that we can't wait to tell everyone about at Comic-Con." Control is straightforward, even for humans. The Sonic Screwdriver Universal Remote Control works via a series of 13 short gestures, such as rotating, flicking, and tapping. A guided set-up procedure uses spoken prompts to match gestures to commands learned from remotes originating here on Earth. Those interested in viewing this unique collectable will be able to view and experience it at BBC America Booth #3629 during the duration of Comic-Con. ThinkGeek.com will begin collecting interest at the same time with sales launching on August 31, 2012. |
| Apple sunsets a few 64-bit Macs with Mountain Lion, video drivers likely the culprit Posted: 11 Jul 2012 08:30 AM PDT Apple is well-known for wanting a close spread in hardware requirements with OS X upgrades, having dropped PowerPC like a hot potato when Snow Leopard arrived just three years after the Intel switch. Whether or not you're a fan of that policy, it's certainly carrying forward with Mountain Lion. When the newly-finished OS hits the Mac App Store, it will rule out the very first wave of 64-bit Macs: certain MacBook Pros, Mac Pros and other early systems will be denied a taste of 10.8. Some sleuthing from Ars Technica suggests that it's a matter of graphics drivers rather than capriciousness on Apple's part, as the Macs excluded from the mix are using 32-bit drivers that won't play nicely with Mountain Lion's 64-bit Utopia short of a wide-scale conversion effort. It's little consolation to those who dropped a pretty penny on certain Macs just a few years ago. That said, Apple is still going the extra mile to support some systems -- if you're reading this on an original aluminum iMac, you're sitting pretty. |
| Jawbone Jambox gets Android app support, semi-ironic silent mode Posted: 11 Jul 2012 08:14 AM PDT Those who bought the regular Jawbone Jambox have had to look on at Big Jambox owners with envy over the past several weeks for more than just the obvious: the larger model was the only one to support the Android version of the Jawbone Companion app and give audible reminders of distinctly non-audio tidbits, such as Google Calendar appointments. The software side of the gap is now closing through a version 2.2 update to the original Bluetooth audio brick. Along with adding in that missing Companion support, there's now a slightly misleading silent mode -- it's just turning off audible control cues and voice prompts, not turning the speaker into a paperweight. If these and minor tweaks like subtler volume tones strike your fancy, the Jambox update is ready and waiting. |
| Samsung's Stephen Woo to kick off day two of CES with keynote Posted: 11 Jul 2012 07:52 AM PDT You might be thinking, "it's too early to be talking about CES," and we wish you were right, but you're not. January's consumer electronics extravaganza is inching closer, plans are already being laid and Samsung President Stephen Woo is filling in appointments in his calendar. The most important of those will be his keynote that's set to kick off day two of the festivities in Vegas. The talk will largely focus on the little things, and we don't mean unimportant things, we mean components. All those tiny slivers of silicon that make your gadgets go are really what is pushing the industry forward and Samsung is a major player -- pumping out processors, memory, SIMs and camera sensors. The former Bell Labs and Texas Instruments employee will bring his 20-plus years of experience to bear on a vision of the future, presumably powered by Sammy's chips. Will he also unveils something new... perhaps a next gen smartphone CPU? We'll just have to wait and see. Guess it's time to start booking those flights. Samsung's President, Stephen Woo, to Deliver Keynote Address at the 2013 International CES® Arlington, Va., July 11, 2012 – The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA)® announced today that Dr. Stephen Woo, president of Samsung Electronics' Device Solutions, will deliver a keynote address at the 2013 International CES®. Owned and produced by CEA, the 2013 International CES, the world's most important technology event, will be held January 8-11, 2013, in Las Vegas, Nevada. Dr. Woo's keynote address is scheduled to open day two of the 2013 CES at 9 a.m. Wednesday, January 9, in The Venetian's Palazzo Ballroom. Dr. Woo will present his insight on the role of components in enabling consumer product innovations. "As it continues to innovate across a range of product categories, Samsung has solidified its position as one of the top technology companies in the world," said Gary Shapiro, president and CEO, CEA. "Samsung captures global attention when it launches its dynamic products at the International CES. We all look forward to hearing Dr. Woo share Samsung's vision from across Samsung Device Solutions, the world leader in advanced semiconductor and display solutions for the IT industry." At Samsung Electronics since 2003, Dr. Woo was appointed general manager of the System LSI Business in 2008. Dr. Woo currently oversees all activities surrounding the System LSI Business, including logic solutions that provide next-generation features in consumer and mobile products. Under his leadership, revenue has nearly tripled to more than $10 billion in 2011, making it one of the fastest-growing businesses in Samsung Electronics. Samsung's System LSI Business has maintained its lead in global market share for several major products, including mobile application processors for smartphones, complementary metal oxide silicon-based camera image sensors, flat-panel display driver ICs (integrated circuits) and smart card ICs for SIM (subscriber identity module) cards. Dr. Woo's background in the electronics industry dates back to 1977. He spent more than 20 years in senior research and management positions at leading companies in the semiconductor industry, including Bell Laboratories, Sansearch (a start-up company he founded) and Texas Instruments. He worked as a research scientist focusing on areas of very large scale integration (VLSI) design, field programmable gate array (FPGA), computer architecture and parallel processing at Bell Laboratories. Dr. Woo also served as the business director and general manager of the Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) terminal chipset business at Texas Instruments. Samsung's technology innovation has helped make the Republic of Korea one of the leading countries in support of the digital technology industry. CEA applauds the recent reciprocal trusted traveler agreement between the U.S. and the Republic of Korea particularly since Korea has the second largest international presence at the International CES. The 2013 CES will feature 3,000 global technology companies unveiling the latest consumer technology products and services across 15 major categories including the latest in audio, automotive electronics, connected home technologies, digital imaging/photography, electronic gaming, entertainment/content and more. For more information on the 2013 International CES, visit CESweb.org. |
| Google and Sustrans join forces, bring bike navigation to UK Maps Posted: 11 Jul 2012 07:23 AM PDT Pedaling your way through the streets of London Town and eager to avoid giant hills or dangerous traffic? Well, Google Maps is about to become your new best friend. The (still kinda-sorta) search company partnered with Sustrans to bring cycling directions to UK users of its mapping app. Now, alongside your typical driving, walking and public transit options you'll see an adorable little biking icon. Really, there's not much more to say, it's a feature we in the US have been enjoying for quite some time and we're happy that our friend across the pond are finally joining the party. There's a celebratory video and some PR after the break, if that sort of thing intrigues you. Safe cycling routes to appear on Google for the first time Contact: Press Office 0117 927 7555; mobile 07802 986728; E-mail: press@sustrans.org.uk Finding a safe route to ride your bike is set to be easier than ever as cycling routes are made available on UK Google Maps for the first time today at 5pm [Wednesday 11 July], following collaboration between charity Sustrans and Google. In a ground-breaking move for cyclists and would-be cyclists, National Cycle Network routes across the UK can now be navigated online using a new bicycle symbol on Google Maps, alongside the options of driving, public transport and walking. Cyclists can now plan their trips, make use of bike lanes, calculate cycle-friendly routes that avoid big hills and customise the map for cycling on smart phones and computers. The development follows news of the biggest ever increase in use of National Cycle Network – the nationwide system of off-road cycle paths and quiet streets for safe cycling – in 2011. Sustrans is marking the occasion with the release of new video, 'Lucy's Cycling Treasure Hunt', heralding the online mapping as a new beginning. View the video HERE. Sustrans' Chief Executive, Malcolm Shepherd said; "Safety is the number one concern for people who want to ride their bikes and now it's easier than ever to find the safest way to get from a to b on two wheels. "Google has given cycling equal status to driving and using public transport – we need our politicians and local councils to do the same." Ed Parsons, geospatial technologist at Google UK said: "We know how popular cycling is in London and the rest of the UK, especially ahead of a busy summer, which is why we are thrilled to bring cycling directions to Google Maps. "Thanks to Sustrans, we now have thousands of miles of trails and routes, as well as bike lanes and recommended streets for cities across the country. "We'll continue to add new trail information and urge commuters to swap their car for a bike as they can now find a convenient route that makes use of dedicated bike tracks and avoid hills whenever possible." |
| GameCircle brings achievements, save game sync to Amazon's tablet Posted: 11 Jul 2012 06:51 AM PDT Get ready Kindle Fire fans, Amazon is throwing down the gaming gauntlet and taking on all comers. The content giant just announced GameCircle, a new tool available to developers publishing games on its customized Android platform. It allows the easy integration of an achievement system and leader boards that don't pull a user out of a game. Instead a simple pop up launches when you've been awarded a new trophy and closing it out lets you go right back to where you were (presumably cutting ropes, flinging birds or shooting zombies). Perhaps most exciting though, is the ability to sync progress between devices. Wherever you leave off, your data is sent to Amazon's magical cloud and pulled back down in the event that you sign on to a new device or accidentally delete your game. Of course, we're not too sure how much time you spend switching between Kindle Fires... unless.... Amazon Introduces GameCircle for Kindle Fire and Opens Up APIs for Game Developers SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jul. 11, 2012-- (NASDAQ:AMZN) – Millions of people are already enjoying a vast selection of games on Kindle Fire's vibrant color 7" touchscreen with extra-wide viewing angle. Today, Amazon.com, Inc. introduced "GameCircle," an all-new gaming experience for Kindle Fire, and released a series of APIs for developers to add this new experience to their games. GameCircle offers gaming customers a series of features such as achievements, leaderboards, and sync that make gaming even more fun, convenient and social on Kindle Fire. The newly-released GameCircle APIs will help game developers quickly and easily integrate their games with GameCircle, allowing them to grow their business by reaching new customers and keeping them engaged. Starting today, developers can access the GameCircle APIs and find more information by visiting http://amazon.com/gamecircle. Achievements Achievements allow players to track all earned trophies, treasures, badges, awards and more while they're playing games on their Kindle Fire. Players won't have to leave a game to receive messages, get updates or track accolades. They can also pause a game, view an achievements summary, determine what badges are still needed or desired, and then return to gameplay. Leaderboards Leaderboards provide an in-game view of score comparison information and percentile ranking, allowing players to quickly and easily check standings against other players without ever leaving the game. Sync Sync automatically saves players' in-game progress to the cloud and allows them to pick up exactly where they left off when restoring a deleted game or switching between their devices. Players will no longer have to worry about losing game progress, scores or achievements between Kindle Fire devices, as all data is securely stored for free in the cloud. "We have received extremely positive feedback from developers on our recently launched In-App Purchasing API with its easy 1-Click purchasing, and now we're excited to add yet another reason to be a game developer for Kindle Fire," said Paul Ryder, Vice President of Apps and Games at Amazon. "The new GameCircle APIs mean that developers don't have to worry about building leaderboards, achievements or sync in their games – they can focus on the elements of their games that are truly unique while building an immersive, more entertaining experience on Kindle Fire. This will quickly help developers grow their business by reaching more customers and keeping them engaged." "We are thrilled to be part of Amazon's GameCircle with Temple Run," said Keith Shepherd, Co-founder of Imangi Studios. "The new service is a great way to keep our fans engaged by offering them more opportunities to play the game, and an intuitive platform to connect with new players." "We're excited about Amazon's GameCircle because it brings a new level of engagement for our most popular Android titles such as Doodle Jump and Collapse!," said Ken Murphy, VP of GameHouse Studios. "The ability to compete for high scores and achievements through the Amazon network means even more fun for GameHouse players." "GameCircle is a wonderful addition to Triple Town," said David J. Edery, CEO of Spry Fox. "It guarantees that Kindle Fire users will not lose their active game or their hard-earned coins if they replace their Kindle Fire, or if they must uninstall and reinstall Triple Town for whatever reason. It also enables multiple-device owners to transfer their game from one Kindle Fire device to another-something we think gamers will love." For more information on GameCircle and for access to the achievements, leaderboard and sync APIs, visit http://amazon.com/gamecircle. |
| SugarSync to ship with many Samsung mobile devices, make Galaxy S III a home away from home Posted: 11 Jul 2012 06:23 AM PDT Samsung and SugarSync are already cozy with each other, having struck a deal to put SugarSync's cloud file sharing on Samsung's AllShare Play-equipped TVs. That relationship just got a lot closer: SugarSync will now be a mainstay for Samsung's rather successful mobile devices. Starting with the Galaxy S III, any Samsung phone or tablet that supports AllShare Play will have SugarSync built-in, whether it's for looking at files and media from back home or just to upload the phone's own photos and videos for sharing later on. The service still offers a free 5GB of storage as a baseline and will scale up to 500GB if you're willing to fork over up to $40 a month. Between this and a Dropbox deal for most carriers, Samsung has the cloud largely sewn up on its handhelds -- if you can't access it, it probably doesn't exist. SugarSync Expands Partnership with Samsung, Now Shipping on AllShare Play-Enabled Mobile Devices SugarSync Now Shipping on the Samsung GALAXY S III SAN MATEO, CALIF., July 11, 2012 – SugarSync, a free service that lets you access, sync and share all of your files and folders across all your computers and mobile devices, today announced that it has expanded its existing partnership with Samsung and is now shipping on the new Samsung GALAXY S III. SugarSync has been shipping on Samsung's AllShare Play-enabled Smart TVs since January of 2012, giving users the ability to access the SugarSync Cloud from their Samsung Internet-connected Smart TVs. Beginning with the release of the new Samsung GALAXY S III, SugarSync will now ship on all Samsung mobile devices that feature the AllShare Play service. Samsung's AllShare Play service allows you to search for and play video, photo, and music files freely across AllShare Play-enabled devices such as PCs, TVs, and mobile devices. Samsung has incorporated the SugarSync Cloud into its AllShare Play service, so any AllShare Play user who does not yet have any cloud storage can easily create a cloud account by signing up for a SugarSync account – which provides 5GB of storage for free – from within AllShare Play. This integration also enables existing SugarSync users to access their files, photos, music and movies from their new Samsung devices. Users can now save photos and video from their Samsung phones and tablets to the SugarSync Cloud so they can access, view and play them at any time from other Samsung phones, tablets and Smart TVs. "At SugarSync, we think the mobile experience is very important for users, which is why we have been the leader in mobile innovation for personal cloud and support more mobile devices and platforms than any other Cloud provider," said Laura Yecies, CEO of SugarSync. "Expanding our relationship with Samsung to be integrated into their mobile devices is a natural progression, as this will give Samsung mobile users a way of sharing content via the SugarSync Cloud across multiple devices from within AllShare Play." The Samsung GALAXY S III is the first Samsung mobile device to ship with the AllShare Play service pre-loaded on the devices. "We continue to be selected by large global partners including Samsung, Lenovo, Fujitsu, France Telecom-Orange and more to provide the benefits of the Cloud to their users," said Yecies. "This integration into Samsung's mobile devices will help drive the continued adoption of SugarSync worldwide." |
| Tep Wireless unveils European-wide hotspot rental service for $5-a-day, 1GB of data included Posted: 11 Jul 2012 06:00 AM PDT Hardcore jetsetters should still be turning to Xcom Global, iPhone Trip or a local mobile shop upon arrival, but those who won't be burning up the megabytes now have yet another alternative when traversing European lands. The outfit best known for keeping those traveling to the UK connected is now branching out a bit, enabling a single rental hotspot to provide mobile data access across 38 countries in the EU. You'll pay $5 per day for the privilege, but here's the kicker: only 1GB of data is included, regardless of how long you stay. If you chew through that allotment, you'll have to pay $55 for an extra 1.4GB or $95 for another 4GB. Granted, that's significantly less than what AT&T and Verizon would charge, even if you sign up for their discounted global plans. (For those curious, the same pools would run between $180 and $250.) It ain't ideal for those working on the go, but if you're just looking to tear through a Foursquare Bucket List while Eurotripping... well, you can place your order today in the source link below. Tep Wireless launches European-wide service for $5-a-day, eliminating roaming fees across Europe Travel in 38 countries and stay connected with a single device and data-plan London 11 July 12 9am EDT Tep Wireless (www.tepwireless.com) today announce their new expanded service for traveling within Europe. This is great news for travelers who are looking to stay connected 24/7, wherever they travel in Europe with minimal expense and maximum data allowances. Tep's first-of-its-kind multi-country service alleviates connectivity concerns for business travelers and tourists alike meaning you can now get on a train in London and travel all the way to Vienna without losing connectivity or swapping your sim along the way. The data package is aimed at heavy users who require an always-on connection wherever they travel. Pricing starts at just $5 per day with 1GB of data provided. Extra data can be bolted on as you need it, meaning flexibility in what you download, as well as where. The system operates real-time notifications and auto top-up. If selected, a user's data allowance will automatically be increased and their account charged. Even with the latest roaming price decreases by Verizon and AT&T, a trip to Europe can land travellers a bill of several hundred dollars at least, not to mention the planning that has to go in to ensuring that your devices can connect in multiple locations and countries.* Companies like Tep are arming travelers with simple, always on connectivity while away from home. Their increased service throughout the EU now makes it even easier to ensure that you are equipped to connect in any of 38 European countries without the need to change sim-card or device. "I travel across Europe regularly, and I got fed up with not having a good data service on the go. This is why we have developed the multi-country plan, it means that you can go anywhere you like and not lose access to your email, social networks and the web as a whole" says Tomas Mendoza, founder of Tep Wireless. The service is available immediately. For information on the plans, devices and costs please visitwww.tepwireless.com/wifi/europe. |
| Starbucks Android app gets caffeinated update, also launches in UK and Canada Posted: 11 Jul 2012 05:53 AM PDT Americans have enjoyed the freedom to choose between Starbucks apps on both iOS and Android for over a year, and now the Google-flavored iteration is now finally going abroad, launching in both the UK and Canada today. The launch coincides with an app update for all users on the North American continent and across the pond. You'll now be able to connect your phone to your Starbucks Card payment account, seek out nearby caffeine outlets and gleefully obsess over rewards and balances. The refresh also adds a widget for your presumably otherwise bare homescreen. This first global rollout now totals over 14,000 locations to use your Starbucks Card to pay, with PayPal functionality also rolled into both the US and Canadian iterations. Hit up the PR after the break for the nitty-gritty. Starbucks Expands Mobile Payment Footprint Globally with Launch of Starbucks® App for Android™ in the UK and Canada Starbucks® App for Android™ Features: |
| Posted: 11 Jul 2012 05:46 AM PDT It's finally happening: after roughly two and a half years, Rovio Mobile is weaning itself off of its addiction to avians. The company's first non-bird title in what feels like an eternity, Amazing Alex, will be reaching the official stores for both Android and iOS come July 12th. Strictly speaking, Rovio is taking something of a shortcut to bringing this Incredible Machine-style puzzler to market: it bought the rights to Casey's Contraptions and enlisted the developers, Miguel Friginal and Noel Llopis, to bring the title into the Rovio family. While that means it's not quite as fresh as it could be, the game has already piqued our interest and could be exposed to many (many, many) more players. While we wait, we'll pour one out for the managers and supervisors bound to lose hours of work from staff trying to finish just one more level. |
| Griffin's MIDIConnect now available at $80 to make beautiful music with your iDevice (video) Posted: 11 Jul 2012 05:22 AM PDT Inspiration can strike from anywhere, and now you can use a proper musical instrument to channel it with MIDIConnect, available from Griffin Technology for $80. The unit allows you to twang, pluck or tickle a MIDI instrument on the go directly into GarageBand and other iOS music apps, and also reverses the flow -- allowing your Cupertino device to send a MIDI signal and become keys, drums or a guitar itself. For hygiene's sake, however, we probably wouldn't take our portable composing quite as far as the video below the break shows. Griffin's Music Gear will be showcased at Summer NAMM July 12-14 in Nashville at booth 308 Nashville, TN – July 10, 2012 – Griffin Technology, one of the world's foremost creators of innovations for everyday life, is excited to announce the availability of MIDIConnect, a MIDI in and out interface for iPod touch, iPhone and iPad. "MIDIConnect offers musicians a compact and portable solution to create and edit music on the go, at a fraction of the cost of a recording studio," said Ethan Opelt, Line Manager of Griffin's Audio category. "We are excited to be showcasing MIDIConnect as well as Griffin's lineup of music products at Summer NAMM, taking place in Nashville, our home town." MIDIConnect adds a MIDI input and output to iOS devices. Intuitive to use, MIDIConnect allows you to plug MIDI keyboards and other MIDI-capable devices into an iPad, iPod touch or iPhone. Play your MIDI instrument straight into GarageBand or other MIDI-capable apps, or download MIDI Controller apps to use the MIDI out port and your touchscreen in performance, as a MIDI controller. Both MIDI in and out ports are industry-standard 5-pin DIN connectors, compatible with most commonly available MIDI cables and connectors. MIDIConnect is now available for $79.99 at www.GriffinTechnology.com. To see the MIDIConnect in action, check out the video here. The MIDIConnect will be on display at Summer NAMM in Nashville from July 12-14, 2012. Visitors can stop by Griffin's booth #308 to check out Griffin's latest music gear, some of which includes: To learn more about Griffin's music accessories, visit www.griffintechnology.com/music. About Griffin Technology |
| OnLive reaffirms support for Marvell powered ARM Google TV boxes Posted: 11 Jul 2012 05:00 AM PDT While there has been a lot of speculation recently about which platforms the OnLive Google TV app will support for gameplay, the company is confirming support for / collaboration with Marvell's 1500 HD SoC Google highlighted for its v2 hardware. While no specific devices are mentioned, there's a Marvell brain in the Sony Google TV box we recently reviewed and the upcoming Vizio Co-Star, so unless a manufacturer blocks it, we'd expect to be able to install it and get playing -- Gaikai purchases notwithstanding. Not mentioned in the press release (after the break) is LG's custom CPU for its Google TVs, but since we've already got video evidence of it running there, we're simply left waiting for the app to launch for the full console gaming experience sans-console. A Winning Play: Marvell and OnLive Team Up to Deliver Next Generation Cloud Gaming |
| Pure unleashes Contour 100i iDevice speaker with swiveling dock Posted: 11 Jul 2012 05:00 AM PDT It was this past CES when we got a quick look at Pure's curvy Contour 200i AirPlay system, and now the company is getting a bit more basic -- and wallet-friendly -- with its 100i. It may not be wireless, but this little rig pumps out a maximum of 20 watts through its speakers and features an FM radio, an auxiliary port, a headphone jack and a remote. Although it's exceedingly par the course as far as speaker docks go, the 100i does feature a swiveling dock that stows away when you're not mounting your iDevice. Additionally, Pure's made its internet radio-enabling Lounge app free for a limited timed from the iTunes and Google Play store, noting plans to launch a subscription service later this year. The unit is only compatible with iThings, but it can be had now at Brookstone for $169 bucks if your interest is piqued. You'll find more info in the press release after the break. Pure Partners Power, Style and Affordability in the New Contour 100i Audio Dock Your browser may not support display of this image. Pure's revolving iPod, iPhone and iPad music dock with FM radio is now available SAN FRANCISCO, July 11, 2012 – Pure, the global leader in wireless music and radio systems, presents Contour 100i, an affordable, compact and stylish dock for iPod, iPhone and iPad with integrated FM radio, powerful and detailed audio, a beautifully engineered revolving dock and a free companion internet radio and music streaming App. With the free companion Pure Lounge App, Contour 100i users are able to access over 18,000 global internet radio stations, on-demand programs, podcasts and ambient sounds, as well as the ability to discover, explore and listen to millions of music tracks via the Pure Music subscription service, expected to be available in North America later this year[1]. Additionally, Pure is making its Pure Lounge App available for free for a limited period of time from both the Apple App Store and Android Market[2]. At an MSRP of just $189, Pure Contour 100i punches above its weight with 20W RMS of extremely powerful and detailed audio for its compact dimensions and a strong feature set including integrated FM radio; made for iPod and iPhone certifications; a slim line remote with magnetic remote tidy; two alarms; sleep and snooze timers; an aux-input for MP3 player connection; and a headphone socket. Part of an expanding Contour family of docks, the Pure Contour 100i has been designed with contemporary styling to look good in any room of the house and the innovative revolving dock can be tucked away when the dock isn't being used. Contour 100i is available now from Brookstone.com as well as Pure.com, with more retailers to follow. For more information, please visit www.pure.com/us. Editor's notes Contour 100i is also part of EcoPlus, a statement of Pure's ethical philosophy and on-going commitment to looking after the environment. All Pure products are designed to minimize their environmental impact and manufactured in ethically approved and audited facilities. They have reduced power consumption in operation and standby, use recycled packaging materials, have the smallest possible packaging and components selected to minimize environmental impact. [1] Pure Music will be supported by the Pure Lounge App from the moment the service goes live. [2] The Pure Contour 100i dock is compatible only with the Apple iPod, iPhone and iPad, and therefore only compatible with the Apple App Store download of the Pure Lounge App. |
| London Underground: NFC mobile payment technology 'too slow' for the tube Posted: 11 Jul 2012 04:43 AM PDT |
| Wilson Electronics' Sleek 4G-V Verizon flavored signal booster reports for service Posted: 11 Jul 2012 04:17 AM PDT If you're often finding that your super-duper 4G service is more LT-Eh?, than LTE, then you might have been curious about Wilson Electronics' Sleek 4G-V cellphone signal booster. If you were, it's time to stop waving your hand in the air looking for bars, and stick it in your pocket in search of some sheets, as it's now available in stores. Of course, it's Verizon customers who'll benefit the most, with the Sleek 4G-V being designed with the big red's 700MHz service in mind. That said good old 2- and 3G services are still given a leg up. The MSRP remains $129 for the standard "in-vehicle" model, with an optional accessory kit for indoor use (no price at this time). If this message kept dropping out, head Wilson Electronics' Newest Mobile Cell Phone Signal Booster - The Sleek 4G-V - Now Available in Stores and Online World's first 4Gcellular booster designed for vehicles improves voice and data communications on 2G & 3G networks, as well as Verizon Wireless™ LTE St.George, Utah – July 11, 2012– Promising better connections andfewer dropped calls, Wilson Electronics (www.WilsonElectronics.com), North America's leading maker of cellular signal boosters, today announced the availability of the Sleek® 4G-V, the world's first 4Gsignal booster designed to improve cell reception in vehicles like cars, trucks, and boats. In areas with Verizon Wireless™ LTE service on the 700 MHz band, the Sleek 4G-V will ensure a strong LTE signal as well as conventional 3G and 2G signals. Benefits include fewer dropped connections and no-service "dead zones," faster data transfer rates and improved battery life for wireless devices. According to published accounts, Verizon Wireless reported the company had more than eight million LTE subscribers in the first quarter of 2012. During the first three months of the year thecompany sold almost 3 million LTE devices. "Devices operating on Verizon's LTE network can now benefit from Wilson signal boosting technology just as 3G and 2G devices have done for years," said Laine Matthews, Wilson's director of business development. "The Sleek 4G-V allows them to maintain a strong reliable signal in weak signal areas. It's also an ideal all-in-one phone cradle and signal booster for any driver, especially anyone living in an area where 'hands-free' driving is a must, or pro-active drivers practicing safe driving skills." In areas not served by Verizon Wireless LTE, the cell phone signal boosterwill amplify any existing signal on 800 MHz and 1900 MHz bands (except Nextel/iDEN). This allows the user to enjoy a strong, reliable cellular signal even when no 4G service is available. Although the Sleek 4G-V is designed for use in a vehicle, it can also be used indoors with thepurchase of an optional accessory kit – where it also boosts 4G wireless hotspots like the Verizon JetPack™. The 4G-V can also deliver more than 20 times the power of a typical cell phone alone, and weighs onlythree ounces (85 grams) and measures just 2.5 by 4.5 by 2.5 inches (6.4 x 11.4 6.4 cm). Simple, do-it-yourself installation is done in a matter of minutes. Like all Wilson cell phone boosters, the Sleek 4G-V features very sophisticated cellular network protection technologies developed over more than a decade of research and development. To find a retail store or an online reseller of Wilson signal boosters, pleasevisit http://www.wilsonelectronics.com/DealerLocator.aspx |
| Reported new DARPA chief brings true geek, dash of green tech controversy Posted: 11 Jul 2012 03:48 AM PDT Running DARPA has always demanded a certain amount of tech-savviness -- it created what ultimately became the internet, after all -- but it may get an extra coat of green paint with a new leader. The agency has reportedly taken on Arati Prabhakar as its new director, and Wired notes that she has a lot more than just the agency itself under her belt. Along with going so far as to found DARPA's Microelectronics Technology Office, she ran the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and eventually signed on with Interval Research the venture capital firm that backed the solar power company Solyndra as well as numerous other green tech projects. That last decision has drawn a fair share of flak: Solyndra got about $500 million of public funding and still went under. With that in mind, an anonymous senior military staffer claims that Prabhakar wasn't involved in the questionable government loan and went through "extensive vetting," so it's doubtful that the funding will cast the same shadow over her DARPA technology investments as it did for the outgoing director, Regina Dugan. Even so, there will no doubt be a close watch over Prabhakar if the appointment is made public, both for those who want to keep her honest as well as for the potentially huge amount of insight into clean energy and general technology that she can wield. [Image credit: SRI] |
| 36.7 million FPS camera revolutionized cancer screening, next comes combat sports Posted: 11 Jul 2012 03:27 AM PDT We're quite familiar with the fun you can have when you've got a high speed camera in your possession. But, even Phantom's pricey and impressive 2,800 FPS cameras have nothing on the latest project out of UCLA. Engineers at the school have rigged up a microscope cam that uses serial time-encoded amplified microscopy (STEAM) to capture clips of individual cells at 36.7 million FPS. Let that sink in for a moment -- that's a "shutter" speed of 27 picoseconds. The school actually pioneered the method years ago, which uses ultra-fast laser pulses to generate images of cells as they speed by. The camera is capable of processing 100,000 cells a second, allowing doctors to spot cancerous anomalies that might have otherwise gone undetected. Now we just hope they can supersize the tech and sell it to HBO... boxing KOs can never be played back slow enough. This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| T-Mobile to incentivize select 2G subscribers with upgrade offers during five-city US pilot Posted: 11 Jul 2012 02:59 AM PDT Growing tired of that EDGE-only device on T-Mobile? The carrier wants you to upgrade just as badly as you do, and may be willing to kick some extra incentives your way to help motivate the switch. In an attempt to clear devices from its 2G network, T-Mobile reportedly launched a pilot this month, targeting 5,000 select customers each in Boston, DC, Los Angeles, Miami and New York City with discount offers that vary slightly by market, and may include a waived upgrade fee, up to $100 (Boston) or $50 (NYC, DC) off any phone, or, exclusively for folks in Miami, the option to swap their device for a Samsung t259, t359 Smile or Gravity TXT for free with no new contract to sign. According to TmoNews, customers may receive a targeted offer if they're Classic or Legacy subscribers with 1,000 or more monthly minutes on a 2G device (the iPhone is not included). If the pilot is successful, T-Mobile may roll out the offer to customers in additional cities, as part of the carrier's refarming effort to grow HSPA+ network capacity. A full offer breakdown is available at the source link below. |
| HTC confirms another tablet coming to the UK Posted: 11 Jul 2012 02:33 AM PDT HTC has kept pretty quiet on the tablet front, aside from some Windows brou-ha-ha. But according to PC Advisor, the company has plans to launch another tablet on British shores. The Flyer remains the last tablet to arrive -- due to a lack of 4G networks, the Jetstream didn't make the trip across the Atlantic. It remains a very vague tease, with no promise of a launch even within the year and not even a nod to whether the OS will be Android or something else altogether. HTC's apparently holding back until it has something unique to offer, a strategy that other companies seem to be following in a bid to avoid the pile of tablet also-rans. |
| Nokia hits RIM with another triple-patent combo punch Posted: 11 Jul 2012 02:03 AM PDT In the law of the playground, he who has the biggest rep holds court. In the world of mobile, though, it's all about your quiver of patents. Nokia has its fair share, and already flexed its litigation-muscle against RIM (among others). Now, it's popping another three in the chamber in this latest filing. It's Germany, again, the Madison Square Garden of the mobile world -- more specifically Munich. FOSS Patents asserts that Nokia has a much stronger IP portfolio than RIM, but that Waterloo will still likely countersue. So, perhaps another added benefit of concentrating on a smaller number of devices? Less patent toes to tread on. |
| Airbus Electronic Flight Bag apps save iPad savvy pilots time and paper Posted: 11 Jul 2012 01:58 AM PDT For a while now, iPads have been used to replace paper in a pilot's daily duties. Airbus is also looking to further the cause with its Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) applications for the Apple slate. Pretty soon, airlines will have an alternative to existing EFB tech that runs PC operating systems with the "FlySmart with Airbus" app suite. The apps will allow crews to calculate performance and consult manuals without the need to cart around several hundred printed pages. Of course, to gain access to said software in the App Store, you'll need to be a customer in order to obtain the requisite download permissions. |
| Green Automotive to acquire Land Rover-converter Liberty Electric for $17 million Posted: 11 Jul 2012 01:28 AM PDT Liberty Electric Cars hasn't cropper up on our radar too much in recent years, but it looks like it has been on Green Automotive's. It recently announced that it's acquiring the UK-based company, which specializes in converting Land Rovers to electric vehicles, for $17 million in an all-stock deal. In a statement, Liberty Electric CEO Ian Hobday said that the acquisition wouldn't affect the company's business in Europe or its management structure, adding that the deal "provides us with a huge opportunity to expand in America," as well as the ability invest further in R&D and bring new products to market. Exactly when we can expect to see that expansion into the US isn't clear, but it will presumably have some company from Green Automotive's own EVs when it does make the move. |
| Motorola MOTOSMART comes to UK in July: we go hands-on Posted: 11 Jul 2012 12:53 AM PDT Motorola isn't letting the Atrix HD hog all the spotlight today. If you'd like your smartphone a little more to-the-point, the MOTOSMART distills just about everything cellular to its fundamentals. It's as frugal as can be -- the tiny full-touch phone packs a 3.5-inch 480 x 320 display, a 3-megapixel rear camera and the same MotoSwitch-layered Android 2.3 we saw half a year ago with the MOTOLUXE. Then again, that essentialism is really the focus, isn't it? The MOTOSMART will cost just £100 ($155) SIM-free when it hits T-Mobile UK and other parts of Europe by the end of the month, so the barrier to entry is more like a speed bump. Click past the break for the video, some brief impressions, and the source for the hard details in the Italian-only listing that Motorola has so far. Its lifting its design cues from the MOTOLUXE spotted earlier this year, albeit with some lesser specs crammed inside. For that £100 price tag, you'll get a petite black slab with a tactile rough plastic finish and a 3-megapixel camera. The Gingerbread OS has a handful of Motorola UI licks that we've seen on its other devices, but the low-resolution (480 x 320) 3.5-inch display soon started to grate during our time with the phone. Navigation was generally smooth, although apps and the web browser launched a little slowly -- given the 600MHz we're not all that shocked here. Unfortunately, the phone may have trouble catching the eye of Brit customers alongside more colorful entry-level rivals like the Desire C and Xperia Miro. Mat Smith contributed to this report. Motorola Mobility Simplifies Life with MOTOSMART™ in UK BASINGSTOKE, UK – July 10, 2012 – Ditch the complications. MOTOSMART™ is the latest Android™-powered smartphone for the UK from Motorola Mobility. It, is slick, thin, and gives you one-touch access to your top contacts, favorite apps, music and more. MOTOSMART will be available in the UK from T-Mobile. Organisation is the key to a stress-free life. And with MOTOSMART, you can streamline and simplify your day. For instance, the phone comes with the latest version of MotoSwitch – software that learns which songs you love, who you talk to most and which apps you use throughout your day. All of this information is then saved right on your home screen. So you won't waste time searching through long lists of contacts, music and apps ever again. For those who are always on the go, connect to your email and the Internet with built-in Wi-Fi. Or access maps and step-by-step navigation as you scoot around town using the phone's GPS. Worried about getting stuck in a rainstorm? With Motorola MOTOSMART, you can stay ahead of the weather by checking out vivid forecasts directly on the phone's 3.5-inch display. You'll almost feel thunder tremble from your phone. Leave your camera at home and take photos of your friends, family or gorgeous sunsets with the Motorola MOTOSMART's 3-megapixel camera. Then, in just a few easy steps, you can post photos of your adventures to your favorite social media sites. In addition, the music app allows you to discover, share, and sync music to your PC seamlessly1. And because MOTOSMART is an Android-powered smartphone, you can access over 500,000 apps on Google Play™ to help streamline your day (like calendars or budgeting tools) or apps that entertain (like books, games and even the latest movies). "Simply put, MOTOSMART makes life easier," said Victoria McManus, marketing director, UK & Nordics, Motorola Mobility. "You don't have to worry about complicated settings and hard-to-follow instructions. Just turn this smartphone on and get instant access to the people and things in your life that matter most." Availability and pricing MOTOSMART will be available on T-Mobile from the end of July, free on a £7 per month, 24 month plan, and for £99.99 on pay as you go. |
| Ouya gaming console raises $2 million on Kickstarter, doesn't know what to do with it Posted: 11 Jul 2012 12:15 AM PDT When we first detailed the Ouya $99 Android-based game console yesterday, we had a feeling it would become a hot property over at Kickstarter. But still, there's no way we anticipated this: the project has just raised $2 million in its first day, having sped past its initial $950,000 goal within a record-breaking 12 hours. Now, in an email to backers, the project has asked for feedback on its "stretch goals" -- in other words, what it should do if it makes even more cash and is able to set its sights on loftier ambitions. If you're a backer then check your email, if you're a potential backer then check the source link, and if you're a traditional VC then weep. |
| Researchers store memory bit on a lone molecule, could pave the way for petabyte SSDs Posted: 11 Jul 2012 12:01 AM PDT |
| WSJ chimes in on Amazon smartphone rumors, says 4- to 5-inch device is in testing Posted: 10 Jul 2012 11:10 PM PDT Whether the possibility of an Amazon smartphone is growing any stronger or the Wall Street Journal just wants to prove it has sources too, the paper is saying parts suppliers are gearing up to build just such a device. According to the always informative unnamed sources, testing of a phone is underway, and mass production could start late this year or early next year. There's still no revelations on what the software might be like or how the device could be sold, but the report does expand on Bloomberg's initial revelations from last week by narrowing the possible size down to between 4- and 5-inches. Of course, if the rumors are correct then we'll probably see a new Kindle Fire hit the streets first anyway, if it has any updated software to bring along then maybe we'll have a better idea of what an Amazon phone could look like. |
| Magellan eXplorist 510 Marine Edition sets sights on boaters, out in time for Talk Like a Pirate Day Posted: 10 Jul 2012 10:29 PM PDT Although the Magellan range of navigation devices is primarily used by landlubbers, it should be noted that the original Portuguese namesake for MiTAC Digital Corporation's line of portable GPS units earned his reputation by navigating on water. As such, the release of the new Magellan eXplorist 510 Marine Edition for boaters can be considered to be quite fitting. Fresh from releasing seven new Roadmate GPS units, Magellan's latest addition to its eXplorist line boasts custom Navionics charts and data for US coastal waters up to two miles offshore. It also has information for inland waters -- including high-definition content for 12,000 lakes. Other features for the waterproof navigation device include a built-in camera and 3-inch color touchscreen that's readable in direct sunlight. The release of the eXplorist 510 Marine Edition is pegged for August at MagellanGPS.com and authorized dealers, with a suggested retail price of $479.99. For more info, go ahead and wade into the obligatory PR after the break.
Magellan Launches eXplorist Marine Edition to Give Recreational Boaters a Total Navigation Solution for U.S. Coastal and Inland Waters 10 July, 2012 SANTA CLARA, CA – Magellan, a leader of innovative GPS devices for vehicles, fitness, outdoor and mobile navigation, today announced the new Magellan® eXplorist® 510 Marine Edition, a comprehensive navigational solution for recreational boaters with exclusive coverage content of U.S. inland and coastal waters and a powerful Magellan eXplorist GPS receiver. The Magellan eXplorist 510 Marine Edition provides boaters with a custom selection of best-in-class Navionics marine navigation charts and data plus a rugged, waterproof handheld Magellan eXplorist 510 Outdoor GPS device featuring easy-to-use menus, a built-in camera and a 3-inch sunlight-readable color touchscreen. In addition to high-definition content for 12,000 U.S. lakes, the Magellan eXplorist 510 Marine Edition includes U.S. coastal coverage up to two miles offshore, with data on 5-foot contours, tides, currents, wrecks, port plans, marsh areas, and marine services. "It is our goal to deliver the most complete coverage and the most detailed content possible for recreational boaters," said Warren Hewerdine, Sr. Director of Marketing for Magellan. "Partnering with Navionics allowed us to not only deliver best-in-class- marine charts, but also develop a Magellan-exclusive solution combining lakes and coastline content for the most comprehensive coverage possible." For maximum convenience to consumers, all Navionics charts and marine data are pre-loaded on a single MicroSD card that is included with the eXplorist 510 Marine Edition. Available in August from MagellanGPS.com and Magellan's authorized retail and online partners, the Magellan eXplorist 510 Marine Edition is $479.99 (MSRP). About Magellan |
| Viacom channels disappear from DirecTV after the two companies can't reach a deal Posted: 10 Jul 2012 09:48 PM PDT As we feared, DirecTV and Viacom didn't work things out and before the clock struck midnight ET, all of the network's feeds went dark for the satellite company's customers. Of course, both sides are throwing barbs with Viacom saying DirecTV was not interested in engaging in "meaningful conversation" and that their last contact was at 11AM. On DirecTV's side, it's claiming it sent proposals but never heard anything back and as such was forced to pull the channels. Viacom has been running ads and notices all day to make sure kids big and little call DirecTV to apply pressure about missing their television shows. DirecTV is firing back with the Kids Mix channel (shown above) that replaces the pulled children's programming and points out content on other stations, and even suggests customers check out sources like Amazon Prime or Netflix to keep watching their shows in the meantime. There's no telling who may blink first, or when, but you can look at each company's statement and hear the sabres rattling for yourself after the break. Any bets as to who will work out a deal first between these two and Dish Network / AMC? We are deeply disappointed that DirecTV dropped Viacom's channels before our midnight deadline this evening, severing our connection with its nearly 20 million subscribers nationwide. We proposed a fair deal that amounted to an increase of only a couple pennies per day, per subscriber, and we remained willing to negotiate that deal right up to this evening's deadline. However, DirecTV refused to engage in meaningful conversation. We are hopeful that DirecTV will work with us toward a resolution, and stop denying its subscribers access to the networks they watch most. _______________ Viacom Drops 17 National Networks from DIRECTV Lineup After Ignoring DIRECTV's Latest Proposal Viacom Sends Letter to DIRECTV Demanding Channels be Removed; Pushing DIRECTV Customers to Pay a 30 Percent Rate Hike for Channels In a Ratings Slide EL SEGUNDO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- DIRECTV customers were left without Nickelodeon, MTV, Comedy Central and 14 other channels today, after Viacom dropped its networks from DIRECTV at approximately midnight EDT. DIRECTV executives reached out to Viacom both yesterday and today with a new proposal and a request to keep the channels on while we continued to negotiate, but never heard back, so DIRECTV had to comply with their demand to take the channels down or face legal action. The DIRECTV Kids' Mix Channel will help parents find programming alternatives when they tune to any children's network removed by Viacom to try to force DIRECTV customers to pay a 30% rate hike for the same Viacom channels they get today. (Photo: Business Wire) "We have been very willing to get a deal done, but Viacom is pushing DIRECTV customers to pay more than a 30 percent increase, which equates to an extra $1 billion, despite the fact that the ratings for many of their main networks have plummeted and much of Viacom's programming can be seen for free online," said Derek Chang, DIRECTV executive vice president of Content, Strategy and Development. "Viacom sent us a letter last night that outlined our obligations to remove the channels by midnight or face legal action just as they were falsely telling viewers DIRECTV was responsible. Let's be clear, Viacom took these channels away from DIRECTV viewers." On its Website www.directvpromise.com, an information resource for customers affected by programming disputes, DIRECTV pointed out that Viacom is demanding an exorbitant increase for many Viacom channels that customers may never watch. DIRECTV stated that if Viacom believes all of its networks are worth so much extra money, DIRECTV customers should have the right to choose which Viacom channels they want to pay to keep and which ones they don't. "We have absolutely no problem compensating Viacom fairly, but they have now knowingly put our customers in the unreasonable position of either accepting their extravagant financial demands or losing some of their favorite TV shows," said Chang. "We feel our customers should not have to pay more for these networks than the customers of any other TV provider. We reiterated this to Viacom today and have not heard back from them." "We understand that Viacom's actions are inconveniencing our customers so we are doing everything we can to help them find alternative programming until this gets resolved," Chang added. "Customers will now see a variety of replacement channels available to them on one screen, in a Mix Channel format, when they tune to a Viacom channel. For instance, those going to the Nickelodeon channel slot will see alternative choices for children's programming such as The Disney Channel, ABC Family, Cartoon Network, PBS Sprout, The Hub and Boomerang. Customers can also see full-length Viacom episodes for free by going to www.directvpromise.com and clicking on the 'Other Ways to Watch' tab." |
| T-Mobile myTouch and myTouch Q coming August 8th for $50, we go hands-on Posted: 10 Jul 2012 09:00 PM PDT T-Mobile's myTouch series is back with a new pair of devices -- a slate and a slideout QWERTY, to be precise -- and the lucky manufacturer this time around is Huawei, following in the footsteps made by HTC and LG in years past. Of course, we can't say that this is much of a shocker, considering we've seen these midrange handsets go through endless rounds of rumors, FCC certification and even our very own hands-ons when visiting Huawei HQ (where the devices are known more officially as the Ascend G312 and G312 QWERTY). But they're finally ready for the final production line and will be available August 8th for $50 after a $50 mail-in rebate. The myTouch will come in black and dark red, while the myTouch Q will be offered in black and white. So what kind of specs can we expect to enjoy (or strongly dislike, depending on your personal preference) on the myTouch and myTouch Q? It's running Android 2.3 on a special customized UI, for starters, which will be a huge disappointment to many potential buyers. Additionally, both devices will offer a 4-inch WVGA screen, 1,500mAh battery, 4GB of internal storage, microSD expansion, 5MP rear camera capable of taking 720p video, 0.3MP front-facing cam, HSPA+ connectivity and an unspecified 1.4GHz CPU (though we reported earlier that it should be a single-core MSM8255T accompanied by 1GB of RAM). Head below to check out our gallery and hands-on video, and then continue reading after the break to hear our first impressions.
First, it's important to note that the pair of myTouch devices are identical in componentry and general design, with the major difference being that the myTouch Q is a bit thicker due to its slideout keyboard. Both phones presented a rather run-of-the-mill experience: the CPU was snappy enough to handle our tasks without much lag, the WVGA display is adequate and offers good color saturation despite its lower viewing angles and the camera seems to take average pictures, though it lacks many of the features and settings we've come to expect in midrange devices. Speaking of which, we were delighted by the fact that both phones feature a dedicated camera shutter button. The myTouch series also features the Genius Button, a capacitive key underneath the display that sits next to the menu, home and back keys. This particular button is simply the myTouch-branded version of voice dictation: tell it to make calls, dictate texts, search the web and set up your navigation. We weren't able to test it out during our brief tenure with the phones, but we can't imagine the experience will be much different than your standard voice dictation service. No, neither of these devices will be as thin as many of the modern-day top dogs, but despite their bulkier frame the two handsets had a solid build quality and were decidedly comfortable to hold. Part of the reason can be attributed to the curvacious backs that offer a more natural feel, Another factor to the phones' overall comfort was the somewhat gritty plastic battery cover, which kept nasty fingerprints away and still made the devices feel like they'll be able to hold up well over time. Focusing specifically on the keyboard-laden myTouch Q, we found the typing experience to be a bit rough. The board features individual keys with a slight bubble, but yet they don't offer much give or travel. Thus, trying to crank out a standard text message proved to be frustrating. The overall feel of the keyboard may change as we get used to it, but our first impressions were pretty disappointing. That aside, we loved the experience of sliding the keyboard open and closed, as it turned out to be incredibly solid: it wasn't so loose that it felt like it was going to slide off and hit a poor defenseless bystander, but it wasn't so tight that it required the jaws of life to open it. In general, the myTouch series will likely be popular for anyone who isn't planning to spend very much money on a new phone and just prefer to have an Android device with decent specs. In other words, power users probably won't find much interest in either handset. We were disappointed by the keyboard and T-Mobile's choice to bring a pair of Gingerbread phones to its lineup in the summer of 2012 (for future updates, the companies told us they would work together, but stopped short of promising anything) certainly doesn't help endear us to the brand by any means, but it's otherwise solidly made and is a good representation of Huawei's middle-of-the-road offerings. Check out the press release below. T-Mobile's myTouch Family Grows With Next-Generation T-Mobile myTouch and T-Mobile myTouch Q Latest Generation Delivers an Easy-to-Learn Experience at an Attractive Price BELLEVUE, Wash. - July 11, 2012 - T-Mobile USA, Inc. today announced the Aug. 8 availability of two new additions to its exclusive lineup of T-Mobile myTouch smartphones, the new T-Mobile® myTouch® and T-Mobile® myTouch® Q. Featuring an all-new version of the Genius Button®, an easy-to-use Setup Wizard and how-to tutorials, the myTouch and myTouch Q are designed for easy out-of the-box use, making both devices ideal for customers who are looking for a straightforward, seamless smartphone experience. The new T-Mobile myTouch devices offer hardware options that fit consumers' individual preferences. The T-Mobile myTouch offers a 4.0" WVGA touch display and virtual keyboard with Swype®, while the T-Mobile myTouch Q features the same great touch display with an accompanying full slide-out QWERTY keyboard. "T-Mobile is committed to delivering a strong and diverse portfolio of 4G handsets that runs on our fast and dependable 4G network, including smartphones that enable people to get amazing 4G experiences at a great value," said Brad Duea, senior vice president of product management, T-Mobile USA. "The value and ease of use that the myTouch devices deliver, paired with our worry-free rate plans, means it is easier than ever for customers to get everything they want in a smartphone without the expense for features they won't use." New T-Mobile myTouch Series Key Features
Manufactured by Huawei, the 4G-enabled T-Mobile myTouch and myTouch Q ship with Android 2.3 (Gingerbread) and feature a speedy 1.4 GHz processor for fast performance. The devices are also equipped with a dedicated camera button for easy access to the 5-megapixel camera with auto-focus and LED flash for quality photo capture and sharing. Both devices also sport a front-facing camera for video chat over T-Mobile's 4G network. A redesigned camera user interface allows for quick access to key features such as the flash, switching cameras and choosing the camcorder option. Availability The T-Mobile myTouch will be offered in black or dark red, and the T-Mobile myTouch Q will be offered in black or white. Both devices, exclusively from T-Mobile, are expected to be available Aug. 8 at T-Mobile retail stores, from select dealers and national retailers, and online at http://www.t-mobile.com for $49.99 after a $50 mail-in rebate card with a two-year agreement on a qualifying plan. For more information visit www.T-Mobile.com. |
| Myanmar plans to open doors to foreign telcos for affordable cellular, internet service Posted: 10 Jul 2012 08:50 PM PDT Hefty price tags haven't exactly made cellphones ubiquitous in cash-strapped Myanmar. According to AFP, an estimated 96 percent of the nation's 60 million inhabitants don't own a mobile handset, but that might soon be changing. A new reform plan announced by Myanmar's Post and Telecommunication Minister, Thein Tun, lays out a strategy that could finally give said folks a crack at affordable cellular and internet services. If successful, the initiative will start a bidding process for international telcos to set up shop in the country, allowing the companies to partner with the state-owned telephone provider and the ISP Yatanarpon Teleport. There's no word on when the partnerships may coalesce, but here's to hoping that $200 SIM card registration fees in Myanmar soon become a thing of the past. Full details at the source link below. [Image credit: Shutterstock] |
| Samsung Galaxy Note for AT&T devours Ice Cream Sandwich and Premium Suite apps Posted: 10 Jul 2012 08:03 PM PDT Here it is, just as you'd expected: Android 4.0 and Samsung's Premium Suite of apps is now available for the Galaxy Note on AT&T. While the update won't be made available over-the-air, both PC and Mac users may download and install the latest OS from within Samsung Kies. As for the S Pen-enhanced apps within the Premium Suite, you'll find a new version of S-Note that sports integration with Wolphram Alpha, along with an S-Memo widget that syncs to both Evernote and Google Drive. Finally, the My Story app is available as an add-on download within Samsung Apps, which allows users to write letters, create cards and multimedia albums. For full installation instructions, just hit up the source link below. |
| Graphene heals itself, powers our dreams and nightmares Posted: 10 Jul 2012 07:22 PM PDT Slowly, but surely graphene is pushing our technological hopes, dreams and, yes, nightmares towards reality. The stuff is capable of extending battery life, generating electricity, powering high-speed data connections and super computer-worthy CPUs. It's water proof, stretchy, bendy and apparently self healing. (This space reserved for T-1000 reference.) Researchers at the University of Manchester discovered that, if you put a hole in a sheet of graphene, it simply stitches itself back together. This is thanks to carbon's tendency to latch on to other atoms, including its own, which can make the futuristic material difficult to work with, but gives it this highly unique quality. Thankfully, we're no where near self-healing robots. But, the discovery could lead to a simple method for molding it into almost any shape. Once pierced, the form of the mend is determined by the type of molecules introduced -- pure carbon simply regrows the perfect honeycomb structure, while a few foreign atoms can lead to "defects." Of course, if they're intentional and predictable, defects merely become "features." For more check out the source link. |
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