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Engadget News |
- Samsung Galaxy Note II for T-Mobile made official, comes with gamepad-tuned racing this fall
- Android 4.1.2 goes live, gives Nexus 7 owners landscape home screen
- Humble Bundle goes literary, offers octuplet of books at a humble price
- Galaxy Note II coming to T-Mobile on October 24th, say leaked documents
- Firefox 16 final launches with Reader on Android, VoiceOver on Macs and web app support
- Sprint adds two phones, a tablet and a USB dongle to its LTE line-up
- Lookout Security & Antivirus for Android gets a makeover, lets missing phones have one last gasp
- Amazon patents online haggling system that keeps buyers, sellers on the up and up
- We're live from MobileCon 2012!
- New Starz Play website and apps stream only to Cox customers, but you might not need them
- Verizon HTC Droid Incredible X pops up at certification forum, inadvertently confirms existence
- Microsoft Research crafts wrist-worn device that tracks hand gestures in 3D space (video)
- Fifth-gen iPod touch and nano now in stores and in the mail
- NVIDIA launches GeForce 650 Ti, Maingear says all custom desktop models now have it
- 'Contre Jour' is now playable in the browser, one third of the levels require IE 10
- Leaked Nokia Atlas image shows a Windows Phone 8 device heading to Verizon
- Acer Iconia W510 preview: as Acer moves into the Windows 8 era, it returns to its netbook roots
- Atom-powered Acer Iconia W510 on sale November 9th for $500 and up
- Virgin Media begins pushing its UK broadband to 120Mbps, much to Usain's delight
- Watch Felix Baumgartner's space dive live right here at 9:30AM ET (update: more delays)
- BBC Worldwide announces first four Blu-ray / DVDs with UltraViolet digital copies
- NetZero gives subscribers free data to share through Facebook, doles out friendship 1GB at a time
- Samsung reveals the Galaxy Music: part budget phone, part mobile disco
- Samsung ATIV S Windows Phone shows off acres and acres of live tiles in video (update: pulled)
- RIM's PlayBook disappearing from online retailers in the US
- Logitech G710+ gaming keyboard boasts quiet, glowing, speed-typing
- W3C teams with Apple, Google, Mozilla on WebPlatform, a guide to building the open web (video)
- Rumor: AT&T will start taking pre-orders for Windows Phone 8 devices on October 21st
- Microsoft backs free Boingo WiFi in NYC and San Francisco, hopes you'll see Metro on the metro
- AMD enters Windows 8 tablet fray with Z-60 chip: 'all-day' battery life, graphics 'you would never expect'
- LG E960 Mako surfaces in photos, may be the future Nexus phone (update)
- HTC DLX specs purportedly slip, stuff Snapdragon S4 Pro and 12MP camera into a 5-inch frame
- Ben Heck builds Arduino-based automatic sunglasses, beats David Caruso to the punch (video)
- Samsung announces Android 4.1 availability for Galaxy S III in South Korea
- Ematic outs 7-inch FunTab Pro with ICS and a Zoodles mode for kids, available for $150
- Boxee TV streaming / OTA set-top box and DVR pics leak out
- Join the Engadget HD Podcast live on Ustream at 8:30PM ET
- Google drafts checklist for making top-notch Android tablet apps
- Moto pulls phones and tablets from German site pending software update
- Verizon teases black and brown Galaxy S III models for the subtle crowd
| Samsung Galaxy Note II for T-Mobile made official, comes with gamepad-tuned racing this fall Posted: 09 Oct 2012 11:20 AM PDT Now that the Galaxy Note II has already been made public for AT&T and Sprint, it's T-Mobile's turn at bat. The magenta network isn't deviating significantly from the hardware seen at other American carriers, aside from the absence of (currently active) LTE, but it does brag about bonus software. Gamers taken with the MOGA Bluetooth gamepad will get a preloaded, special version of an "exciting new racing game" that's tailored for the physical controller. Unfortunately, T-Mobile is shy about committing to prices and ship dates for the gray and white Note II editions it will be offering in the weeks ahead -- although there's more than one hint that we should keep an eye out around October 24th, or at least no later than mid-November. T-Mobile's Most Powerful Device, the Samsung Galaxy Note® II, Coming this Fall With a powerful quad-core processor, large HD screen and exclusive gaming features, the Galaxy Note II offers an amazing 4G experience and superior value on T-Mobile's nationwide network. Bellevue, Wash. - Oct. 9, 2012 T-Mobile USA, Inc., and Samsung Telecommunications America, LLC (Samsung Mobile), today announced the upcoming Samsung Galaxy Note® II. The new smartphone features T-Mobile's largest smartphone screen - a 5.5-inch HD Super AMOLED® screen - for an enhanced entertainment experience and improved productivity while using the device. The Galaxy Note II is T-Mobile's first device with a quad-core processor, featuring Samsung's 1.6GHz quad-core Exynos processor. In addition, the Galaxy Note II is T-Mobile's first smartphone shipping with Android™ 4.1 Jelly Bean and the device's 3100mAh battery powers up to 15 hours of talk time1. Only T-Mobile Galaxy Note II customers will have access to an exciting new racing game preloaded on the device, which will include three free levels. In addition, T-Mobile's exclusive version of the racing game will be optimized to interact with a MOGA™ Mobile Gaming System, bringing an immersive, console-quality gaming experience to the palms of T-Mobile customers' hands. Building on the Premium Suite of productivity features offered with the original Galaxy Note, the Galaxy Note II delivers an even more robust portfolio of tools for business professionals. The enhanced S Pen™ gives users a more precise and natural writing and drawing experience, making creativity and collaboration a breeze. New applications for the S Pen, such as Air View which gives the ability to preview content simply by hovering the S Pen over an email, calendar entry, image gallery or video, helps Galaxy Note II users get more done – even faster. The Samsung Galaxy Note II will be available in Titanium Gray and Marble White color options. The smartphone is expected to be available nationwide at T-Mobile retail stores, select national retailers and dealers, and online via www.T-Mobile.com in the coming weeks. |
| Android 4.1.2 goes live, gives Nexus 7 owners landscape home screen Posted: 09 Oct 2012 11:00 AM PDT We've been seeing a mysterious Android 4.1.2 update mentioned in conjunction with a few unreleased devices in the past few hours, so it's only fitting that we're seeing the official release today. Google's Android Open Source Project lead Jean-Baptiste Queru has posted word that the 4.1.2 release should be available on Tuesday for at least those relying on pure AOSP builds of the mobile OS. While we haven't seen the update reach our own devices yet, some Nexus 7 owners already report getting 4.1.2 on their tablets with a pleasant surprise in store: in addition to the expected bug fixes and performance boosts, the software lets the home screen rotate to landscape mode on the smaller Jelly Bean slate. We're keeping an eye out for when other hardware gets the patch, although it's expected that the Galaxy Nexus, Nexus S and Xoom will follow quickly enough. [Image credit: EETimes] |
| Humble Bundle goes literary, offers octuplet of books at a humble price Posted: 09 Oct 2012 10:37 AM PDT The Humble Bundle tends to be associated with not just low prices, but also indie video games (and occasionally music). Today's bundle, however, centers on the literary-minded among us, offering a set of eight e-Books for just under $10. Of course, a main staple of the bundle is its pay what you want price model, which applies here as well -- should you only want six of the books, you can pay any price (one penny for six books! hot dog!). If you want access to John Scalzi's Old Man's War and Signal to Noise by Neil Gaiman and Dave McKean, you've gotta shell out over the average payment price (currently sitting at $9.84). If you want that sub-$10 price, we'd suggest heading over sooner than later. Another good reason? You've only got two weeks before this humble e-Book bundle disappears forever.
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| Galaxy Note II coming to T-Mobile on October 24th, say leaked documents Posted: 09 Oct 2012 10:21 AM PDT Samsung's Galaxy Note II is happily filling hands in Korea and the UK without so much as a release date announced stateside. We may now have one, thanks to the folks at TmoNews, who appear to have snagged an internal document which suggests the phablet will arrive at the Magenta carrier on October 24th. Coincidentally (or not), Samsung is holding an event the same day, marrying with our previous speculation that it'll be unveiling the various carrier editions of the 5.5-inch beast there. Our suspicions are flagged, however, at the mention that Need for Speed: Most Wanted will come pre-installed, a game that isn't slated for release until October 30th -- not that we haven't seen similar release partnerships from the Note crew before. Although we can't confirm the legitimacy of this leak, we can suggest you start building up that grip strength just in case.
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| Firefox 16 final launches with Reader on Android, VoiceOver on Macs and web app support Posted: 09 Oct 2012 09:56 AM PDT Mozilla knows how to keep on the fast track. Just weeks after the Firefox 16 beta first showed, the finished version is ready and waiting. Surprises are few if you were an early adopter, although the update still has some welcome changes for the right audiences. Mozilla is most keen to talk about preliminary web app support for the Mozilla Marketplace, but you'll also find device-specific additions like a Reader Mode for the Android flock and VoiceOver support automatically switched on for Macs. More responsive JavaScript and on-by-default Opus audio playback give existing surfers extra reasons to upgrade. Firefox 16 is immediately available through all the usual channels, so hit the relevant source link if you're ready to live on the not-quite-bleeding edge. |
| Sprint adds two phones, a tablet and a USB dongle to its LTE line-up Posted: 09 Oct 2012 09:30 AM PDT If simple vanity trinkets don't excite you, Sprint has something else to tempt you in -- four new LTE devices. The new line-up includes two phones, a tablet and a USB dongle, so hopefully something for everyone. The phones? the Optimus G (as we suspected) and Mach (a cheaper, QWERTY phone), both by LG. If you need a little more screen real-estate, Samsung's Galaxy Tab 2 10.1 will be joining the other Koreans on the good ship Sprint too. Happy with your notebook, and just want the service? Sprint's adding a Plug-in-Connect USB dongle to the menu also. Now deets on cost and dates we're afraid, with "fall" being all the info we've got right now. Feel free to delve into the PR after the break, in the meantime though. Bold 4G LTE Lineup from Sprint Gains Four New Powerhouse Devices – Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 10.1, LG Optimus G, LG Mach and Sprint Plug-in-Connect Tri-Mode USB First 4G LTE tablet from Sprint, Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 10.1 offers Android 4.0, Ice Cream Sandwich and beautiful 10.1-inch display for entertainment and productivity Photobugs will delight with high-powered LG Optimus G featuring an advanced 13MP camera SAN DIEGO (BUSINESS WIRE), October 09, 2012 - As part of Sprint's (NYSE:S) commitment to bring customers the best 4G LTE experience combined with the value of Truly UnlimitedSM data on smartphones, four new devices will soon be added to Sprint's already impressive 4G LTE lineup: Samsung Galaxy Tab® 2 10.1, LG Optimus G™, LG Mach™ and Sprint Plug-in-Connect Tri-mode USB. Pricing and availability for each device will be shared at a later date. These four new 4G LTE additions will be available this fall and will provide customers powerful devices that fit their lifestyles: Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 10.1 is the first tablet to combine the benefits of Sprint 3G and 4G LTE with a vivid 10.1-inch touchscreen display, Android 4.0, Ice Cream Sandwich and a 1.5GHz dual-core processor. "Sprint is continually recognized as having one of the best device lineups in the industry and we are committed to bringing our customers 4G LTE to all the products they enjoy," said David Owens, vice president of Product, Sprint. "We strive to be an innovation leader and this group of devices represent the continual expansion of 4G products to Sprint's portfolio." Meet the New Fab Four Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 10.1 brings to life the data capabilities of the Sprint 4G LTE Network on a large beautiful display making it the ideal device to watch a video, listen to music, check email or surf the Web. The new tablet offers endless content access in a sleek design that maximizes the home entertainment experience. Using the built-in IR Blaster, Galaxy Tab 2 10.1 can be used as a universal smart remote that helps users easily find their favorite TV shows. Galaxy Tab 2 10.1 boasts two cameras, a rear-facing 3-megapixel camera with LED flash and video capture for taking pictures of life's important moments as they happen and a front-facing VGA camera for Face Unlock and video chat. Additionally, on-device encryption and VPN access ensure the tablet is secure for business use. The 7,000 mAh battery keeps the devices connected throughout the day, and the 3G/4G LTE mobile hotspot capability supporting up to 10 Wi-Fi enabled devices simultaneously. LG Optimus G, the latest superphone from LG Electronics, combines the Sprint 4G LTE Network with the power of Qualcomm's Snapdragon™ S4 Pro CPU quad-core processor to create an extremely fast and incredible mobile experience. Equipped with a high-density 2,100 mAh battery and impressive 4.7-inch True HD (high-definition) IPS Plus display, LG Optimus G users can seamlessly multitask between personal, business and entertainment needs and go beyond the boundaries of traditional on-the-go smartphone capabilities. Beyond the advanced 13-megapixel rear-facing camera, LG Optimus G has unique camera capabilities including Time Catch Shot, which empowers users to choose the best photo among various shots taken before the shutter button is pressed, and "cheese shutter," which allows users to take a photo by just saying the word "cheese." Additional features include 32 GB of internal memory, a 4.7-inch WXGA True HD IPS Plus Display (1280 x 768) and the Android 4.0, Ice Cream Sandwich operating system. An ideal entry point into 4G LTE, LG Mach will be one of the thinnest devices with a QWERTY keyboard offered by Sprint. Additionally, its 5-megapixel camera with LED flash allows users to capture images in a snap, and the front-facing camera makes video conferencing a breeze. Full 1080p HD recording and playback allows users to watch streaming movies on the go, or show off those videos to friends and family. Featuring Sprint ID, LG Mach allows users to cut through the clutter of more than 600,000 apps in the Google Play store by selecting from a variety of mobile ID packs featuring apps, ringers, wallpapers, widgets and more. Sprint ID packs currently include Green, Fashion and Beauty, E!, MTV Music, CMT and NASCAR Sprint Cup. Sprint expands its 4G mobile broadband portfolio with the addition of the first tri-mode USB device, Sprint Plug-in-Connect Tri-Mode USB. It provides an easy-to-use mobile broadband solution for instant connectivity and enhanced productivity while on-the-go. With no software to install or startup delay, the Plug-in-Connect Tri-mode USB works just like an Ethernet cable – just plug in and go. For business customers, the device gives the flexibility that mobile workers need with real-time access to company resources, networks and data. Additional features include a fold-away USB connector, LED service status indicator and hands-free activation. All smartphones, including LG Optimus G and LG Mach, require activation on one of the Sprint Everything Data plans starting at just $79.99 per month (taxes and fees excluded) with Truly Unlimited data, text and calling to any mobile. No throttling, no metering and no overages, all while on the Sprint network. With Sprint's Everything Data and other plans that include Truly Unlimited data, Sprint is continuing its history of data leadership by making it easy for its customers to use data in all the ways that are useful to them, such as news, email, music, TV and GPS navigation, without worrying about data overages on their monthly bill. Sprint 4G LTE is available in 24 cities[i] and is expected to be in more than 100 additional cities in coming months. Sprint introduced its all-new 4G LTE network in July 2012 and expects to have largely completed the nationwide build-out by the end of 2013. For the most up-to-date details on Sprint's 4G LTE portfolio and rollout, visit www.sprint.com/4GLTE. |
| Lookout Security & Antivirus for Android gets a makeover, lets missing phones have one last gasp Posted: 09 Oct 2012 09:08 AM PDT Missing phone apps such as Find My iPhone often have a glaring weakness: as they depend on pings at regular intervals, they're not much use at tracking down a lost device if the battery dies first. Enter a major revamp of Lookout's Security & Antivirus app for Android. The updated title's new Signal Flare component takes advantage of a phone's tendency to go out in a blaze of wireless glory that marks its last location. By remembering where a phone was unintentionally laid to rest, Signal Flare helps track down a phone that might have died in the parking lot -- or just underneath the couch. Should your phone remain safely in your pocket, you'll likely still appreciate the reworked interface that blends in with Android 4.0 and beyond, the protection against click-to-call exploits and an activity feed that shows just what Lookout has been doing behind the scenes. Android users can get that extra reassurance today, and iOS users have been promised a parallel app in the future. |
| Amazon patents online haggling system that keeps buyers, sellers on the up and up Posted: 09 Oct 2012 08:33 AM PDT Haggling is so popular that it's virtually mandatory in some parts of the world, and yet it's rarely an option in the online space outside of informal auctions. If Amazon ever puts its newly granted patent into practice, however, we could soon be trying for a better price without the mock drama of a face-to-face encounter. The retailer's proposed haggling system lets buyers and sellers make offers and counteroffers until they reach a happy medium, but with the kind of honesty check we only wish we could have in person. Both buyers and sellers get ratings that would account for their flexibility, typical closing prices and how likely they are to drop a deal before it's done -- a combination that hopefully excludes the cheapskates and those who'd simply keep our wheels spinning. Even if Amazon pulls the trigger on negotiated sales, though, it's a fairly safe bet that there won't be any leeway on that Kindle Fire HD. |
| We're live from MobileCon 2012! Posted: 09 Oct 2012 08:00 AM PDT MobileCon, the show formerly known as CTIA Enterprise & Applications, is ready to get under way in sunny San Diego. Despite its more streamlined name, we expect to see the same kind of stuff as years past; in other words, the show will be much more Enterprise-centric than any other mobile-related event we cover throughout the year. Don't let that scare you off too much -- with the plethora of new device announcements over the past month, we still hope to get our hands on some new and glorious pieces of hardware. Keep your eyes peeled right here as we bring you all of the best (and worst) from Southern California. |
| New Starz Play website and apps stream only to Cox customers, but you might not need them Posted: 09 Oct 2012 07:43 AM PDT Earlier this year Starz pulled its online content library back from Netflix and now it's relaunching the old Starz Play branded websites and apps (iOS and WiFi only for now, 3G and Android coming soon) for authenticated streaming, similar to HBO Go and Showtime Anytime. There's also an Encore Play site, and it plans to launch one for its Movieplex channel in the future. Currently, the services only support logins from Cox cable subscribers, but if you're not on that pay-TV provider you may not be missing out after all. Starz has already licensed its content to providers like Comcast for streaming through its Xfinity website and apps, deals which it tells The Hollywood Reporter cover about 70 percent of its customers. Like HBO and Showtime, this probably is not a prelude to offering its service beyond the tethers of cable and satellite, but as exec John Huguez puts it, "it is an expression of (Starz') brand and user interface." That likely only applies domestically however, as Starz also announced it's licensing its content to the cable-free HBO Nordic service, and one can see how building up its technology means it could serve up its own streams internationally some day. Even if you get Starz, if your provider is large enough to handle its own business when it comes to online services this probably won't affect you. However, for customers on smaller cable companies or in the future when deals get renegotiated, you may have another app to add to your drawer for TV Everywhere-style viewing. ENGLEWOOD, Colo., Oct. 8, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Starz Entertainment announced today the launch of the STARZ PLAY and ENCORE PLAY authenticated online services. The company made the announcement with Cox Communications, the first multichannel video provider to offer the service. STARZ PLAY and ENCORE PLAY services are available today for all Cox Communications customers in United States. Starz expects to launch MOVIEPLEX and MOVIEPLEX PLAY with Cox and announce additional launch agreements with its distribution partners in the future. (Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20121008/LA87863) (Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20080522/LATH063LOGO-b) Along with the upcoming MOVIEPLEX PLAY, today's launch marks the first suite of authenticated online services for pay TV subscribers to the STARZ, ENCORE and MOVIEPLEX premium channels and services. Through its distribution partners, the PLAY services offer Starz Entertainment premium subscribers in the United States portable and online access to the best of its exclusive premium programming. Movie and original content featured includes "Spartacus," "Magic City," "Boss," new hit movies from Disney and Sony, and one of the strongest libraries of feature film content available from many Hollywood studios. The new PLAY services will be available free to subscribers of the underlying STARZ, ENCORE, and MOVIEPLEX subscriptions respectively. Each offers subscribers unlimited streaming access to a deep selection of the best in movies and original programming. STARZ and ENCORE are the most popular pair of flagship premium services in the United States with 54.9 million combined subscriptions. In addition, STARZ PLAY and ENCORE PLAY apps for iPhone, iPad, & iPod touch are available as free downloads from the App Store. The STARZ PLAY and ENCORE PLAY PC/Mac® interfaces are available at www.starzplay.com and www.encoreplay.com. STARZ PLAY and ENCORE PLAY are accessible currently through Wi-Fi and broadband connections. Cellular connectivity and support for Android phones/tablets and gaming consoles are expected to be launched in the future. "We are very pleased to partner with Cox in launching the STARZ PLAY and ENCORE PLAY suite of authenticated online products that we believe will bring tremendous value to our premium subscribers," said Chris Albrecht, CEO of Starz, LLC. "STARZ and ENCORE have long been pioneers in the deployment of advanced services, being the first premium networks to offer authenticated access to our programing through distributors' online platforms. Now, from big screens to mobile devices, a deep collection of movies and original programming from STARZ and ENCORE provides a winning combination for both our distributors and customers." "We are thrilled to be the first distributor to provide the STARZ PLAY and ENCORE PLAY suite to our customers, extending the value of Cox TV Online (www.cox.com/tv) across multiple platforms and adding tremendous value to our Advanced TV services," said Mark Greatrex, chief marketing and sales officer, Cox Communications. "What's more, this is a tremendous benefit for our Cox High Speed Internet Bundle customers who now can watch their favorite premium programming anytime, anywhere, all while enjoying the value of Cox's Bundle." Features/Functionality of the New PLAY Services STARZ PLAY, ENCORE PLAY, and MOVIEPLEX PLAY offer robust online access to the best of the quality movie, TV, and original series content offered by the respective Starz Entertainment premium services. With a simple and intuitive layout and design, each application offers new ways to enjoy the wide range of premium content offered on the STARZ, ENCORE, and MOVIEPLEX channels and services. Family members can "PLAY" everything from great Disney family films to the riveting action and intrigue of "Spartacus" on new platforms other than television. Resume functionality allows the user to seamlessly pick up from where they left off in watching a great movie or TV show on any registered device in the account. Easy set-up of parental controls provides families with options for limiting content accessibility. Menus, screens and commands are optimized for touchscreens to provide a fun, but efficient, means to drop down and swipe through the quality content selection and viewership controls. Facebook and Twitter integrations let fans talk about the latest episode of their favorite STARZ Original series or big hit movie. Wide Online Content Selection To Great Movies/Originals Combined, the STARZ PLAY, ENCORE PLAY, and MOVIEPLEX PLAY services offer approximately 1,500 movies, originals, and additional TV content every month. STARZ PLAY offers approximately 400 monthly selections, including 300 movies comprising first-run films from Disney (Pirates Of The Caribbean: On Stranger Tides, Cars 2, The Muppets) and Sony (The Girl with The Dragon Tattoo, 21 Jump Street, Moneyball) and other great films from a wide selection of Hollywood studios, and 100 episodes of exclusive STARZ Original series, including "Spartacus," "Magic City," and "Boss." ENCORE PLAY offers about 900 monthly selections, with 300 movies and select originals (Tangled, The Smurfs, "Titanic: Blood and Steel," "Moby Dick"). MOVIEPLEX PLAY (Raging Bull, Godzilla, Ghostbusters) offers additionally about 200 movies every month. Starz Entertainment is the exclusive subscription television and broadband provider of STARZ Original series including the "Spartacus" franchise, "Magic City," and "Boss," upcoming original series including "Da Vinci's Demons" and "The White Queen," "Black Sails," and quality feature film programming. Exclusive first-run movies are from leading Hollywood studios including Walt Disney Pictures, Sony Pictures Entertainment, Touchstone Pictures, Hollywood Pictures, Disney-Pixar, Marvel Entertainment, TriStar, Screen Gems, Sony Classics, Anchor Bay Films, and Warren Miller Films. Starz licenses hundreds of feature films from a wide array of independent distributors and a vast collection of classic and favorite titles from most Hollywood studios, including Warner Bros., Fox, Universal, MGM and Lionsgate. ______ - Comprehensive Agreement Brings "Spartacus" to New Nordic SVOD Pay TV Venture, Exclusive Pay TV/SVOD Rights to "Magic City," "Party Down" and Dozens of Owned and Acquired Movie/TV Content - HBO Nordic Secures Commitment for Future STARZ Originals CANNES, France, Oct. 8, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- MIPCOM 2012 -- HBO Nordic, a new multi-platform video distribution venture, which will serve Sweden, Norway, Finland and Denmark and Peter Ekelund/Parsifal International, today announced a major premium content licensing agreement with Starz Media Worldwide Distribution, a division of Starz Media, LLC, which sells globally STARZ Original series and other owned and licensed movie/TV programming. (Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20100413/STARZLOGO-b) The comprehensive multi-year agreement brings HBO Nordic a wide selection of premium programming exclusively on pay TV and subscription VOD (SVOD). Included in the deal is the hit STARZ Original series, "Spartacus" for HBO Nordic's SVOD services and the critically acclaimed STARZ Original series, "Magic City," licensed exclusively for pay TV and SVOD. Additional original programming for pay TV and SVOD includes other popular originals ("Party Down," "Method to the Madness of Jerry Lewis," "Head Case"), TV movies ("Jersey Shore Shark Attack," The 12 Wishes for Christmas), and TV series ("Painkiller Jane," "Masters of Horror," "Masters of Science Fiction"). HBO Nordic will also exclusively air future STARZ Original series and additional movie content. "HBO Nordic is very pleased to license a wide collection of original series and other TV and movie content from Starz," said Herve Payan, CEO of HBO Nordic. "'Magic City' was one of the primary featured series aired exclusively at our upcoming launch. We are also very excited to have licensed Spartacus for SVOD, along with several future original series from Starz exclusively for our customers." "The licensing agreement with HBO Nordic brings a treasure trove of great movie and TV content that should play well to all audiences in Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Denmark," said Gene George, Executive Vice President of Worldwide Distribution for Starz Media. "We are thrilled to be continuing our ongoing relationship with HBO abroad, as they launch in Scandinavia and feel privileged that several key Starz properties will be instrumental in their launch. This deal really spotlights the compelling collection of STARZ Original series and other owned/acquired content that we sell to distributors worldwide." |
| Verizon HTC Droid Incredible X pops up at certification forum, inadvertently confirms existence Posted: 09 Oct 2012 07:27 AM PDT If you've been holding out for HTC's forthcoming Verizon-bound 5-inch Galaxy Note rival, congratulations -- your patience may soon pay off. A listing at the Global Certification Forum reveals the hotly-tipped HTC6435LVW uses Big Red's LTE bands, while the folks over at Blog of Mobile think it'll be renamed as the Droid Incredible X for its network debut. Still, given that the holiday buying season is narrowing with each passing day, we think Lowell McAcam had better hurry up. |
| Microsoft Research crafts wrist-worn device that tracks hand gestures in 3D space (video) Posted: 09 Oct 2012 06:50 AM PDT A team led by researchers at Microsoft's UK-based R&D lab has crafted a system that tracks the full 3D pose of a user's hand without the need for a pesky glove. Dubbed Digits, the Kinect-inspired rig latches onto a user's wrist and utilizes a diffuse infrared light, IR laser, camera and inertial measurement unit to track fingertips and just five key points of a hand. Leveraging a pair of mathematical models developed in-house after studying the mechanics of the human hand, the group uses the captured data to extrapolate the position of a user's paw. The team envisions the solution as a supplement to touch-based interfaces, a method for eyes-free control of mobile devices and as a gaming controller that could work in conjunction with Kinect or similar systems. In its current state, the device is composed of off-the-shelf parts and needs to be tethered to a laptop, but the ultimate goal is to create a mobile, self contained unit the size of a wrist watch. Hit the break to catch a video of the setup in action or tap the second source link below for more details in the group's academic paper. |
| Fifth-gen iPod touch and nano now in stores and in the mail Posted: 09 Oct 2012 06:14 AM PDT If you've been waiting impatiently to get your hands on the latest cellular radio-less iOS device, we've got good news. The fifth gen iPod touch with its elongated screen and colorful backplate is available today in Apple stores across the country. And, if you preordered the slinky aluminum and glass media player, it should already be in the mail. The latest edition of the nano, which is becoming more and more like its larger sibling the touch every day, is also popping up on shelves. The seventh generation of the tiny player, complete with multi touch screen and 16GB of storage, is cropping in Apple stores for $149 starting today. Let us know in the comments if you decided to pick up either device. |
| NVIDIA launches GeForce 650 Ti, Maingear says all custom desktop models now have it Posted: 09 Oct 2012 06:00 AM PDT No one can accuse Maingear of skipping the latest hardware cycles -- less than a month after offering PCs with NVIDIA GeForce GTX 650 and 660 graphics, the PC system builder has announced that you can get all its desktop machines with GTX 650 Ti graphics now, too. As it happens, NVIDIA has just launched that very product -- a friskier version of the GTX 650 with extra Cuda cores -- keeping Maingear in lockstep with its graphics board suppliers again. That card will fill the gap between the $229 GeForce GTX 660 and $109 GTX 650 cards and run $149 (estimated), while Maingear has said it will feature special F131 and Potenza GTX 650 Ti systems at $150 off, along with a free copy of Assassin Creed III. So, if you need all the fps you can get, but can't quite pony up for the more desirable GTX 660, check the PR for more details. MAINGEAR ARMS ALL DESKTOPS WITH THE NEW NVIDIA GEFORCE GTX 650 TI GRAPHICS Kenilworth, New Jersey – October 9, 2012 - MAINGEAR, an award-winning PC system builder offering custom desktops, notebooks, workstations is one of the first to add the new NVIDIA® GeForce® GTX 650 Ti graphics solution that offers game-changing performance and lifelike experience in today's most demanding PC game titles at massively affordable price points. "We know our customers want the best bang for their buck but don't want to sacrifice performance, the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 650 Ti is perfect entry level card to get great performance at an affordable price," said Wallace Santos, CEO and Founder of MAINGEAR. All of MAINGEAR products are supported with lifetime labor and phone support with one to three year hardware warranties. For more information about MAINGEAR's desktops with the new NVIDIA GeForce GTX 650 family of graphics, go to www.maingear.com/650ti About MAINGEAR NVIDIA Introduces Turbocharged GeForce GTX 650 Ti In Time For Autumn's Hottest Games |
| 'Contre Jour' is now playable in the browser, one third of the levels require IE 10 Posted: 09 Oct 2012 06:00 AM PDT Say it with us: Developers! Developers! Developers! That's Steve Ballmer's mantra and indeed, it says a lot about the way Microsoft has gone about promoting Internet Explorer. In addition to a series of prime-time ads (maybe you've seen 'em), the company has been using certain HTML 5 apps to show devs what they can do using IE 10's deep multitouch support. Now the outfit's back, this time with a game: Contre Jour is coming to the web, and while it runs in any modern browser, you'll need IE 10 and a Windows 8 machine to play a third of the levels (it shouldn't make a difference if you have a touchscreen or a multitouch trackpad). That's because in some parts of the game, you'll be required to use as many as three fingers at once to pull off certain maneuvers. In IE 10 you can do this, so you get access to all 30 levels; if you're using a different browser that doesn't support these gestures, the levels will remain locked. Hit up the source link to play the game for free, and if a game based on "The Little Prince" doesn't do much for you, at least check out the Behind the Scenes section -- coding geeks should appreciate the deeper explanation as to how the web app was built.
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| Leaked Nokia Atlas image shows a Windows Phone 8 device heading to Verizon Posted: 09 Oct 2012 05:28 AM PDT When AT&T announced it was keeping the Lumia 920 for itself, plenty of clothes were rended and teeth were gnashed. However, the ever-reliable @evleaks has shown a picture of a Nokia handset, codenamed Atlas, that's bound for Verizon's, erm, less unpopular network. While there's no official confirmation as to the phone's pedigree, we wouldn't be surprised if it was a customized version of the 820 to follow in the footsteps of T-Mobile's 810. Whatever happens, we don't have that long to find out either way. |
| Acer Iconia W510 preview: as Acer moves into the Windows 8 era, it returns to its netbook roots Posted: 09 Oct 2012 05:00 AM PDT More InfoHere it is, folks: our first Windows 8 device. No, not the first we've laid hands on, but the first built-for-Win-8 PC that we've been able to take home and spend some quality time with. If you don't remember today's specimen, you'd be forgiven: the Acer Iconia W510 is one of many, many tablet / laptop hybrids that have debuted over the past few months. Plus, this isn't even the highest-end Windows 8 PC Acer has to offer: unlike the W700, which has a 1080p screen and Ultrabook guts, the W510 runs off a Clover Trail-based Atom processor, and has a smaller 10.1-inch (1,366 x 768) display. Accordingly, the price is also lower: the W510 will start at $500 for the tablet only, though you'll also be able to purchase it with the detachable keyboard dock for $750. (And if the dock really does double the battery life to 18 hours, you might want to.) Though the W510 won't be available for a few weeks yet -- it goes on sale November 9th -- we've gotten a hold of an early unit. An important note: the model we tested was pre-production, so we'll hold off on benchmarking for now and update our story with performance scores and a review card once we have the chance to test a final unit. In the meantime, if you're looking for a deeper dive on the hardware, you've come to the right place. Look and feel
It was almost a year ago that Acer CEO J.T. Wang vowed the company would stop making "cheap and unprofitable products" and focus on more premium items -- namely, Ultrabooks. And yet, the W510 feels like precisely the sort of low-end netbook that earned Acer its reputation for slipshod quality in the first place. Mostly, it's the keyboard dock that's the problem: the plastic buttons have a slightly scratchy feel, and look mismatched against the smooth, faux-metal keyboard deck. The hinge is also made of white, textured plastic that seems out of place next to the rest of the system. What's more, there's a large, unsightly gap between the hinge and the keyboard -- again, netbook redux. Not to go there, but we suspect it's because of products like this that Microsoft's management felt compelled to build the Surface. Even if you left the Surface out of this -- and why not, since we don't know how much it will cost? -- you can still do better than this. Just ask Samsung: the company's Series 5 Slate costs the same with a keyboard dock and has near-identical specs, but the design is considerably more elegant. The W510 feels like precisely the sort of netbook that earned Acer its reputation for slipshod quality in the first place. Visceral reactions aside, we have a small concern about the build quality. We found that the screen tends to wobble in its hinge -- a potential inconvenience for folks who work on jostling buses, planes and Amtrak cars. Still, having manhandled our tester machine a bit, we'd say it's safe to pick up the tablet by the screen with the keyboard attached; you don't really have to worry about it falling out. On the plus side, too, the hinge feels sturdy. You can even safely push the screen all the way back so that the keyboard is tucked behind the screen, with the keys face-down against your desk -- not that there's much advantage to using the tablet that way instead of regular clamshell mode. The tablet itself has the same gray plastic shell, with a white band ringing the edges. On its own, without the keyboard dock nearby, it's actually not a bad piece of kit: plain, yes, but unassuming. In fact, we like the two-tone effect of the white band against the black bezel. The only thing we could have done without is the "Acer" and "Iconia" branding, etched into the plastic on different sides of the devices. Other than that, the tablet feels unexpectedly light, at 1.27 pounds, and for that we have those plastics to thank. (Even with the keyboard, by the way, it weighs just 2.63 pounds) In practice, the 10.1-inch screen is just wide enough that you might have trouble typing in landscape orientation, if your hands aren't that big, but using the onscreen keyboard in portrait mode is easy; even when you're holding the tablet upright, the weight feels balanced enough that you don't have to strain to keep it from tilting backward. Taking a tour around the device, you'll find the tablet portion is home to all the ports you'd expect to find on a mobile device. Up top, there's a headphone jack, power button and a switch for locking the screen orientation. On the bottom side are the various connectors that allow the tablet to latch into the keyboard dock, and the right landscape edge houses a volume rocker, microSD slot, micro-USB port and micro-HDMI output. The W510 has dual speakers, one on each side of the tablet when you're holding it in landscape mode. Unfortunately, though, they're located precisely where you're likely to grip the device, so it's easy to muffle the sound if you're watching a movie while holding the tablet in-hand. Finally, there's an 8-megapixel camera and LED flash around back, along with a 2-megapixel shooter up front. The keyboard dock, meanwhile, is home to a full-size USB 2.0 port, along with a built-in nine-hour battery that promises to double the tablet's runtime. What you won't get is an SD card reader -- something ASUS typically offers on its Transformer Pad docks. There's also a charging slot, allowing you to use the same AC adapter you would with the tablet. That power connector is oddly large, but since there are no USB ports nearby, it's not like we have to worry about it obstructing any openings. Additionally, Acer will be offering some accessories alongside the W510. These include a micro-HDMI-to-VGA adapter, along with a pigeon-gray, faux-suede case. The sleeve has a super soft lining on the inside, and we appreciate how discreet the branding is; just a small metal logo that fades in with the suede, and nothing more. Update: Acer won't be bundling these accessories with the tablet after all; they will be sold separately. Display and sound Though we're not impressed by the W510's build quality, its Gorilla Glass display is actually quite nice. Yes, 1,366 x 768 resolution is middle-of-the-road as far as PCs go, but in terms of quality, this IPS panel offers some wide viewing angles. Working with the dock in your lap, you should have some leeway as far as dipping the screen forward or backward (a boon, too, for people who get work done on airplanes). You can even get by watching a movie from a side angle, but we're also aware that people aren't terribly likely to crowd around a machine this small anyway. We'd add, too, that the viewing angles improved as we increased the brightness. At 350 nits, it's quite bright, yet the battery life is robust enough that we never worried that cranking the brightness would have an adverse effect on runtime. As on other tablets, the W510 doesn't deliver remarkably loud sound, and the audio quality is rather tinny with certain songs. Depending on your musical leanings, though, it's actually pleasant to listen to at the mid-range. Eric Clapton's "Layla" on acoustic guitar is enjoyable, for instance; synthesized songs like MGMT's "Kids," not so much. Keyboard and touchpad Something tells us we're going to have to grade these Windows 8 keyboard docks on a curve: it's clear that creating a comfortable typing experience for a machine this small is no simple feat. In fact, we already know that to be true: early netbooks offered terribly dense keyboards, and while PC makers like Toshiba eventually designed 10-inch laptops with more spacious layouts, we didn't really see progress until OEMs started putting out slightly larger 11-inch machines. It doesn't help, then, that the W510 has a 10-, not 11-inch screen: that extra bit of real estate seems to be the difference between a cramped setup and something more usable. As you probably gathered by now, the W510 falls into that first category: in order to fit everything inside that 10.2-inch-wide keyboard deck, Acer had to shrink certain buttons like the Tab key and the four arrows. To Acer's credit, though, it at least used all the available space: the keys extend nearly to the edge of the chassis on either side. While typing, we also found that our fingers easily found the letter keys. If anything, we ran into more problems when our thumbs kept reaching past the space bar and hit the trackpad instead. Speaking of the trackpad, it doesn't support gestures. That includes Windows 8-specific maneuvers, like swiping right to bring up the Charm Bar, but also two-finger scrolling and pinch-to-zoom. Basic stuff. Again, something to revisit when we review a final unit. Cameras The W510's 8-megapixel rear shooter performs capably in daylight and with macro shots, though we routinely had to hold the tablet still for a couple seconds after tapping the shutter in the Windows 8 camera app. The shutter, by the way, isn't an onscreen button; you can tap anywhere onscreen to capture. Though there's no tap-to-focus feature, we found that, with still photos at least, the camera homed in on exactly the parts of photos we would have expected it to. With 1080p video, though, our clips sometimes slipped in and out of focus, as if the lens wasn't sure what the highlight of the shot was. Across the board, colors appear fairly muted, but you should notice a good deal of detail in your full-res, 8MP shots. Lower-lit shots will look a bit duller, of course, but even then, the noise level was tolerable. Performance When it comes to things tablets are supposed to be good at, the W510 shines. For the most part, when we compare the W510 to netbooks, we're making a dig at its cheap build quality. But there's something else the two have in common: internals. Like netbooks of yore, the W510 packs an Intel Atom processor -- a 1.8GHz dual-core Z2760 CPU from the Clover Trail series, to be exact. Also like a netbook, it comes with 2GB of RAM. For storage, you'll get a 32GB SSD if you choose the lowest-end $500 model; every other configuration has 64GB of on-board storage. Either way, an SSD isn't something we would have taken for granted back in the netbook era; most minis at the time had spinning hard drives. As you'd expect, the Atom's performance has improved since it debuted in 2008, with the latest-gen Clover Trail chips promising 10 hours of use and three weeks on standby. We'd wager, too, that consumer expectations might have changed: when PC makers were stuffing Atom processors inside netbooks -- essentially, miniature laptops -- they had a heck of a time explaining to consumers what they could and couldn't do with these machines. In the case of tablets, though, we suspect folks will pick up Atom-powered slates like the W510 and expect to use them as they would any other tablet. And when it comes to things tablets are supposed to be good at -- email, web browsing and video streaming -- the W510 shines. That Z2760 chip is also more than sufficient for handling the overhead of Windows 8. Not only was the touchscreen responsive, but we didn't notice any lag when we launched programs, swiped right to expose the charm bar or swiped left to rotate through open apps. Again, battery life is rated at up to nine hours on the tablet, and the keyboard dock promises to double that. Once we get a hold of a production-grade unit we'll run not one, but two battery rundown tests and will update this post with those scores. Wrap-up Having met with Acer's product team in person (and having read its executives quoted in the press), it's obvious the company is eager to shed its reputation for cheap products and be taken more seriously as an OEM capable of building premium PCs. You can even see glimmers of that in the Iconia W510, with its lovely IPS display and optional accessories. Ultimately, though, the W510 does a disservice to Acer: with a chintzy build and a cramped, netbook-like keyboard, it confirms whatever pre-conceived notions shoppers may have about the brand. And with so many Windows 8 hybrids on the way, including one from Microsoft itself, Acer can't afford to have its products get lost in the mix. There is something to be excited about, though: the W510 performs well, and at $500, it's attractively priced for a tablet running full Windows 8. The Clover Trail-based Atom processor inside makes for some zippy performance in Windows 8, and that nine-hour battery is also promising. We'll be back with a full review in which we plan to put this guy through its paces, and we'll be curious to see how it fares against similarly priced hybrids offering comparable specs. For all we know, the W510 will end up being exceptionally fast and longevous for its class. But you'd have to get past its homely exterior to appreciate it. |
| Atom-powered Acer Iconia W510 on sale November 9th for $500 and up Posted: 09 Oct 2012 05:00 AM PDT Acer recently announced pricing and availability for its Iconia W700, and now its other Windows 8 tablet, the Iconia W510, is getting that same treatment. The 10.1-inch slate will ship for $500 and up when it goes on sale November 9th. The W510 sports an IPS display with a 1,366 x 768 resolution, and that panel is coated in Gorilla Glass 2 for some extra scratch resistance. Unlike the Ivy Bridge-packing W700, this device runs a 1.5GHz dual-core Intel Atom Z2760 processor (from the Clover Trail series) with 2GB of RAM and up to 64GB of solid-state storage. Connections include a microSD card reader, micro-HDMI and a micro-USB 2.0 port. Acer also offers a $150 keyboard dock, which connects to the tablet from the top and offers a full-size USB 2.0 port. Without the dock, the tablet is rated for up to nine hours of battery life; the dock adds another nine. We got a chance to play with an early unit of the W510 -- head over to our in-depth preview for a closer look. Acer Iconia W510 Tablet PC with Windows 8 Is a Triple Threat Convertible Editor's Summary: SAN JOSE, Calif., (Oct. 9, 2012) Acer America, the world's number two notebook provider, The Intel Atom Z2760 mobile-optimized processor smoothly and seamlessly blazes through Customers get a boost in efficiency using the Iconia W510 in productivity mode. The keyboard dock seamlessly connects to the tablet PC, transforming it into a full-featured notebook for a first-rate typing experience. With it, the Iconia W510 becomes a powerhouse for creating and editing documents, spreadsheets and multimedia content. In addition, the keyboard dock houses an additional battery, extending battery life up to 18 hours for multi-day use, further ensuring productivity and uptime. "Customers will enjoy optimized experiences for touch, typing and viewing on the Iconia W510 tablet PC," said Sumit Agnihotry, vice president of product marketing for Acer. "The versatility of the new tablet PC and durability of the Gorilla Glass 2 display pairs beautifully with the responsive performance to take advantage of the capabilities of Windows 8 for a first-rate tablet PC experience." The Acer Iconia W510 features the latest technology and extras that make it incredibly useful. The tablet PCs come with either a 64GB or 32GB SSD to power on the device and retrieve data quickly and securely. The microSD card reader allows easy transfer of content to and from the tablet PC. The micro-USB port on the tablet PC and full-sized USB on the keyboard dock enable quick and convenient connections to external devices, such as printers and external HDD or USB flash drives. Plus, the Iconia W510 has a Micro HDMI port and dual independent display support for sharing content onto external displays. The Iconia W510 is smartly designed with curved edges and a slim 0.35-inch thin build. The The new Acer Iconia W510 features Acer Always On and Acer Always Connect technologies that enable data upload and retrieval anytime, anywhere, and deliver power-saving features as well. Acer Always On technology ensures the Iconia W510 powers on nearly instantly, similar to a TV or phone. In addition, it provides instant-resume functionality in just 1.5 seconds. Acer Always Connect lets customers connect to previously used hotspots in just 2.5 seconds for better productivity and enjoyment. In addition, Always Connect features remote wakeup for AcerCloud applications, which makes digital content easy to access and share between their Iconia W510 and other PCs anytime, anywhere. Dual Acer Crystal Eye webcams ensure customers can capture images and video, as well as The Acer Iconia W510 tablet PC will be available starting November 9 at leading retailers Acer corporate customers in the U.S. and Canada can be assured the Acer Iconia W510P with Windows 8 Pro will support their legacy Windows programs as well as provide the security and authentication they need through the option of TPM (Trusted Platform Module). The Acer Iconia W510P is backed by an extended two-year warranty and is priced at $799.99 USD and CAD. |
| Virgin Media begins pushing its UK broadband to 120Mbps, much to Usain's delight Posted: 09 Oct 2012 04:38 AM PDT If you're one of Virgin Media's top-tier internet customers, you may soon see your service getting a little speedier. The Branson-backed company is boosting its top speed from 100Mbps to 120Mbps, thanks to a £110 million ($169 million) infrastructure investment. The majority of the network -- around 60 percent -- has yet to be supercharged, but you can use the coverage checker linked below to see if you're in-line for an early Christmas present from Sir Richard. Virgin Media begins 120Mb broadband boost 100Mb boosted to 120Mb to create new top tier service As part of its 'Double Your Speeds' programme launched earlier this year, Virgin Media has now started to boost the speeds of its 100Mb customers to 120Mb. The new 120Mb tier continues to push the boundaries of broadband speeds available in the UK and will ensure Virgin Media broadband customers continue to receive some of the fastest speeds in Europe. Virgin Media has upgraded 40 percent of its network for faster speeds as part of its broadband enhancement programme, giving customers extra bandwidth to take advantage of the latest entertainment services as well as making it easier for multiple users to get online at the same time. Virgin Media's broadband service now offers speeds of 30Mb, 60Mb and up to 100Mb/120Mb, making it the only next-generation ISP in the UK with superfast speeds as standard. The Double Your Speeds programme is due to complete around mid-2013. Jon James, executive director of broadband at Virgin Media said: "Virgin Media has led the greatest developments in broadband in the UK over the last decade and our 120Mb service continues to ensure that our consumers across the country get the very best that today's technology offers." For more information on Virgin Media's Double Speeds programme and for a schedule of upgrades, head to www.virginmedia.com/doublespeeds |
| Watch Felix Baumgartner's space dive live right here at 9:30AM ET (update: more delays) Posted: 09 Oct 2012 04:21 AM PDT Weather may have delayed Felix Baumgartner's record-breaking "space dive" by another (no doubt torturous) 24 hours, but all going well, the wait is almost over. In just over an hour, proceedings will kick off, and you can watch them live, right here. The latest reports indicated that conditions remain favorable, with the team sending a weather balloon up into the stratosphere earlier this morning. The fun begins at 8:30am eastern, but all you need to do is grab a coffee then head past the break for the live feed. Update: Pre-flight checks have postponed the set off. Earliest launch is now set for Update 2: Sorry folks, the launch has been called off due to gusty winds. The team said that tomorrow was a possibility, but until the weather gives way, Felix will remain firmly on the ground.
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| BBC Worldwide announces first four Blu-ray / DVDs with UltraViolet digital copies Posted: 09 Oct 2012 03:45 AM PDT Coming nearly on the anniversary of its US launch, the UltraViolet digital locker system is getting a boost in the UK from BBC Worldwide. The BBC's commercial wing is releasing four Blu-ray / DVD titles that are UltraViolet-enabled and is partnering with Warner-owned Flixster to allow users to redeem their copies. The digital versions are available via streaming and downloading for viewing on or offline, and the first four titles queued up consist of Doctor Who Series 7 Part One, Rollercoaster, a new Top Gear special and Attenborough: 60 Years in the Wild. UltraViolet was already live in the UK, and recently announced it's spreading to cover Canada, Ireland and Australia. We'll see how users like the signup process with its multiple logins, but a quick check of previous Blu-ray releases didn't show any iTunes or Windows Media digital copies at all so at least they'll appreciate the option. BBC Worldwide announces first UK Ultraviolet-enabled DVD titles Click to tweet: BBC Worldwide announces first UK #Ultraviolet-enabled DVD titles http://bbc.in/SJbgOg via @BBCWpress The four UV-enabled titles; Doctor Who Series 7 Part 1, John Bishop's new stand up title Rollercoaster, the new Top Gear special commission and Attenborough: 60 Years in the Wild – the forthcoming retrospective on Sir David Attenborough's sixty years in natural history broadcasting – will be released from late October onwards. Both the DVD and Blu-Ray for each title will be UV-enabled. UltraViolet (UV) technology will give purchasers of BBC Worldwide's physical DVDs the additional right to a free digital copy of the programme or show which can be easily redeemed and subsequently seamlessly accessed via an ever-increasing array of devices including computers, tablets and smartphones. Streaming and download access are supported to enable both online and offline viewing. Claude London, Digital Director for BBC Worldwide Consumer Products comments: "We're thrilled to be announcing our first UV-enabled DVDs and embrace this new era for home video - the UltraViolet era. We hope UV will empower consumers to build digital entertainment libraries and continue to enjoy BBC Worldwide releases either at home or on the move. We will continue to work as part of the UV consortium and with our supporting partner Flixster on further releases for early 2013". Centred on interoperable cloud-based account management and content delivery, UltraViolet has been developed through DECE (Digital Entertainment Content Ecosystem) – an open cross industry consortium including the major movie studios, technology providers, consumer device makers, entertainment retailers and video service providers. For its initial slate of UV-enabled titles, BBC Worldwide has teamed up with content delivery partner Flixster which will also act as the supporting site for consumers to redeem the digital copy of their purchases. Details concerning the redemption process will be provided on a leaflet, designed in collaboration with other participating studios, which will be in the DVD case. Post-launch, users will be able to visit a BBC Worldwide site for further information after which they will be automatically transferred to the relevant Flixster location. |
| NetZero gives subscribers free data to share through Facebook, doles out friendship 1GB at a time Posted: 09 Oct 2012 03:00 AM PDT The classic trick to spurring early adoption of a data hotspot service is to share it with others, and NetZero has every intention of being as giving as its precursors. Its new Data Share program lets those who own of the company's WiMAX devices give away up to 1GB of data every month through Facebook, spread across five friends at 200MB each. Apart from needing NetZero hardware in a coverage area, there's no financial strings attached -- neither the sender nor the recipient needs to adopt more than the free, 200MB per month they already have just for showing up. The real dilemma is managing just who gets the data in the 4G provider's first come, first served approach to the sharing link that hits friends' social news feeds. NetZero is no doubt hoping that the ubiquity of the giveaway (and a half-off device sale during October) will put an early end to any rivalries. NETZERO 4G MOBILE BROADBAND GIVES AWAY FREE WIRELESS DATA TO PARTICIPATING FACEBOOK® MEMBERS NetZero 4G Data Share Program Gives Each Participant One Gigabyte of Free Wireless Data To Give Away To Friends Via New Facebook App Woodland Hills, Calif. – October 9, 2012 – NetZero Wireless, Inc., a subsidiary of United Online, Inc. (NASDAQ: UNTD), today announced the launch of the NetZero 4G Data Share program. Through this new program, any of Facebook's® hundreds of millions of users can sign up at www.netzero.net/datashare and receive one free gigabyte of wireless data per month to give away to their friends via Facebook. All of the free wireless data that is given away can be claimed by the Facebook member's friends through the NetZero 4G Data Share app and can be used by NetZero 4G Mobile Broadband subscribers with any data plan, including the 200MB/month free plan. "With the launch of this innovative program, we are remaining true to our commitment to NetZero 4G Data Share Program Details: * Who can participate? Each data plan works with both the NetZero 4G Stick or the NetZero 4G Hotspot connection |
| Samsung reveals the Galaxy Music: part budget phone, part mobile disco Posted: 09 Oct 2012 02:49 AM PDT When we first saw the name "Galaxy Music" in a Samsung press release a few weeks ago, we totally overlooked it among all the other budget Galaxy spin-offs. Now that it's official, the Galaxy Music (or equally the dual-SIM Galaxy Music Duos variant) turns out to be just that -- with Android 4.0 running on a low-res three-inch touchscreen and an unnamed processor. On the other hand, the handset does have some features that may be of interest to those who use their smartphone mainly for tunes (if not to full-blown audiophiles): there's a microSD slot for cheap storage, out-of-the-box compatibility with FLAC, OGG and many other file types, Sound Alive and SRS audio modes, a dedicated music player button, plus dual frontal speakers Update: It's been sensibly pointed out there isn't much room for a projector on this handset, judging from the pictures above. Although the Samsung spec sheet lists one, and even its brightness, we're going to treat that spec as doubtful until it's proven otherwise. |
| Samsung ATIV S Windows Phone shows off acres and acres of live tiles in video (update: pulled) Posted: 09 Oct 2012 02:25 AM PDT Why does the ATIV S feel so elusive? It's not that we don't know its basic specs -- it's a 4.8-inch phone that brings some much-needed GS III technical glory to Microsoft's OS -- but it's just never cropped up at the events where we've expected to see it. Fortunately, GSMArena was able to get hold of a handset and give it some early hands-on video treatment. At first glance it's probably just what you'd predict: a familiar plastic and Gorilla Glass 2 build with a faux aluminum rear cover that peels off to reveal some micro SD joyousness and a big 2,300mAh battery. But it's the software that really stands out -- those re-sizable live tiles look incredible at this screen size and on such a bold Super AMOLED display, as does the whole aesthetic of the operating system. Check it out for yourself after the break -- it's like that first Titan buzz all over again. Update: It seems GSMArena published too early, since they have now pulled the video. If you didn't catch it in time -- apologies! Elusive was right. This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| RIM's PlayBook disappearing from online retailers in the US Posted: 09 Oct 2012 01:44 AM PDT If you want to get your hands on RIM's BlackBerry PlayBook, you might be running out of time. It seems that the QNX-based device is no longer available in the US from retailers like Wal-Mart, Best Buy, RadioShack and Staples, with Amazon and RIM's own online store being the exceptions. We're wondering if this means newer PlayBooks are in the works -- we've already seen updated 4G LTE models out in the open and recent OS updates indicate the company hasn't given up on the much-maligned PlayBook. Potential upgrades include the upcoming BlackBerry 10 OS, and hardware improvements wouldn't be a bad idea (Perhaps a flip-out keyboard addition a la Microsoft Surface?). In any case, RIM might want to move fast if it wants any chance of competing in the increasingly crowded tablet space. |
| Logitech G710+ gaming keyboard boasts quiet, glowing, speed-typing Posted: 09 Oct 2012 01:00 AM PDT Is that old pro-gaming keyboard you have finally breaking down from years of use, its blue backlight fading to teal (or worse) as the days go on? Are you ready to spend over $100 to get back in the game? Then you, ideal consumer, sound like a good match for Logitech's newest gaming keyboard, the G710+. "Plus what?" you ask? Well, it's a standard G-series performance keyboard from Logitetch, plus a white LED backlight, anti-ghosting tech, under-key dampening to help with all the clickety-clacketing, and a promised 50-million keystroke life span. A set of "G-keys" along the left side allows for assignable macros and scripts, should you need to suddenly maximize your APM mid-StarCraft 2 match (and let's be honest, you've totally been there) -- sadly, the G710+ only works with Windows Vista and up, so you'll have to maximize those actions exclusively on a PC for now. The Logitech G710+ arrives at retail in the US this October for $150, and heads to Europe starting in December at an undetermined price -- check after the break for full specs and a quick demo video. Logitech Delivers Mechanical Keyboard Gamers Deserve |
| W3C teams with Apple, Google, Mozilla on WebPlatform, a guide to building the open web (video) Posted: 09 Oct 2012 12:23 AM PDT |
| Rumor: AT&T will start taking pre-orders for Windows Phone 8 devices on October 21st Posted: 08 Oct 2012 11:02 PM PDT Color us not-too-shocked if it's true, but the Verge has reported that AT&T will begin taking orders for Windows Phone 8 models from the likes of Nokia and HTC on October 21st. Microsoft has already sent invites around for a formal launch of the new smartphone OS for October 29th in San Francisco, so it would make sense for AT&T to start building its own list a week or so ahead of that. The company will also (supposedly) start taking your money for its US-exclusive Samsung Ativ Smart PC and Asus Vivo Tab RT on that day, which also jibes well with Redmond's Windows 8 launch event on October 25th. Availability of those devices is rumored to be the day after (October 26th), while eager Windows Phone 8 users will get their hands on those models "in early November," according to the source. We've reached out to Microsoft for confirmation, though it would be more surprising if all the order-taking didn't commence around those dates. |
| Microsoft backs free Boingo WiFi in NYC and San Francisco, hopes you'll see Metro on the metro Posted: 08 Oct 2012 10:03 PM PDT Microsoft is about to launch a giant media blitz for Windows 8, and it wants to guarantee that even those of us heads-down in our laptops and smartphones take notice. It's sponsoring Boingo's WiFi, making it free at popular locations in New York City and San Francisco through the holidays to pitch both its new OS and the Windows Store. The San Francisco locations are already active and mostly cover signature locations such as Fisherman's Wharf and Union Square, but Microsoft is going all-out for the New York City campaign starting November 1st: the free WiFi will reach over 200 locations in Manhattan as well as the six NYC subway stations offering underground wireless. While some might not enjoy the hard sell on Windows 8 while they're checking into Foursquare, we'd say it's at least relevant that Microsoft pushes its urban sign UI in the city that was arguably the software's major inspiration. [Image credit: pspyro2009, Flickr] Microsoft Sponsors Free Boingo Wi-Fi in NYC and San Francisco Free Holiday Wi-Fi Available at Manhattan Subway Stations, NYC and San Francisco Hotzones; Sponsorship Highlights Microsoft's New Windows Store and App Opportunities for Windows 8 LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Boingo Wireless (NASDAQ: WIFI), the Wi-Fi industry's leading provider of software and services worldwide, announced today that Microsoft is sponsoring free Wi-Fi access at high-traffic New York and San Francisco locations from now through the end of the year. The Wi-Fi sponsorship is part of the launch celebration for Windows 8, and will introduce the new Windows Store for Windows 8 to the app builder community. Consumers can also enjoy browsing great new apps in the Windows Store, view staff recommendations and get personalized picks based on apps they may already use. As part of the holiday promotion, Microsoft's sponsored Wi-Fi is immediately available for users of all Wi-Fi enabled devices in six Manhattan subway stations, supported by Transit Wireless' state-of-the-art network, and across Wi-Fi hotzones covering iconic San Francisco locations including Union Square, Fisherman's Wharf, UN Plaza, the Financial District, Nob Hill and more. Microsoft will also sponsor Wi-Fi via more than 200 Manhattan hotzones, starting November 1. The Wi-Fi hotspots are part of Boingo's Cloud Nine media platform, a global advertising network that enables brand advertisers to reach target audiences through high engagement Wi-Fi sponsorship. "At Microsoft, we know that amazing apps are being built in New York and San Francisco, and we want to give talented developers the chance to launch their businesses through the Windows Store," said John Richards, Senior Director at Microsoft Corp. "We hope our Boingo Wi-Fi sponsorship will introduce the Windows 8 opportunity to app builders in NYC and San Francisco, while providing folks with Wi-Fi connectivity on-the-go." "Microsoft's sponsorship of Wi-Fi in New York and San Francisco is a testament to the targeted reach and deep engagement Boingo's Cloud Nine advertising network delivers," said Dawn Callahan, vice president of consumer marketing for Boingo Wireless. "Our Wi-Fi sponsorships deliver meaningful advertiser content to key consumer audiences, help partner venues meet their revenue needs, and keep people connected from subway station to city center." "New York is always bustling during the holidays, and Microsoft's sponsorship of Boingo Wi-Fi on the Transit Wireless subway wireless network will help straphangers stay connected," said Jerry Page, MTA director of strategic initiatives. "We've received positive feedback from our subway riders on Boingo's sponsored Wi-Fi, and look forward to having them continue this free service through the holidays." In addition to the New York subway system and metropolitan hotzones worldwide, the Boingo global advertising network includes more than 70 leading airports, dozens of shopping centers and stadiums, and thousands of hotels, restaurants and recreational areas, accessible to more than 1.5 billion people annually. |
| Posted: 08 Oct 2012 09:01 PM PDT If you know AMD mainly for its laptop and desktop processors, then some readjustment may be in order: as of now, the company is rushing head-long into the market created by Surface fever and the need for ultra lean tablet chips that can handle Windows 8. Specifically, we're looking at the official launch of the Z-60, formerly known as Hondo, which AMD says will arrive in tablets "later this year" and satisfy even our most unreasonable demands for Windows 8 hybrids that last 10+ hours in tablet mode and which turn into full-scale PCs when docked. And if you're thinking that Intel made much the same pledge during its recent Clover Trail announcement, then you're dead right -- we actually have all the makings here of a proper old-fashioned chip fight. Read on for a spot of pre-match banter. In a bid to emphasize the Z-60's advantages over Clover Trail, AMD is putting the focus squarely (and somewhat predictably) on visuals. It claims the new chip has 5x or 6x better graphics performance than Cedar Trail (Clover's predecessor) and will spit out games that "you would never expect to see on a tablet." It'll support resolutions of up to 1920 x 1200 over HDMI and run titles like Orcs Must Die and even Modern Warfare 2 at medium settings and 1,024 x 768 resolution. There are limits though: when it comes to watching HD content, AMD says that 720p will offer the "best experience" as opposed to full 1080p -- an admission that puts us slightly on edge. In terms of straight computing, we're looking at Windows 8 only (no Android or Linux support, despite earlier reports) and performance that matches the older C-60 chip for netbooks and nettops, with a full boot taking 25 seconds and resume from sleep taking two seconds. But whereas the C-60 was a 9-watt chip, the Z-60 will generally consume between four and five watts depending on the task -- that's low enough for it to be kept cool without a fan, thereby permitting devices to stay thinner than 10mm. The Z-60 also promises to reconnect to WiFi quicker, allowing it enter and exit low-power states with less fuss and delay. AMD claims the processor can last a whole working day on a single charge, but it seems to have based this claim on a tablet running in "Windows Presentation Mode" -- and we're not sure how representative that is of real-life use. By contrast, Intel says Clover Trail can manage three weeks on standby and 10 hours of "active use." Clearly, there's a lot we won't discover about the Z-60 until we get to review it in some early tablets and hybrids and put it head-to-head with Intel-powered hardware. At this point, we're also waiting for crucial information on pricing: could AMD trump Intel by allowing OEMs to the $799 price point we've seen on some Clover Trail tablets, and helping them to edge closer to Windows RT territory? Something tells us it'll have to try. New AMD Z-Series APU for Tablets Enables Immersive Experience for Upcoming Microsoft Windows 8 Platforms -Uncompromised Performance and Amazing AMD Radeon Graphics Set the Bar for Highly Portable and Tablet Form Factors - SUNNYVALE, Calif. - Oct. 9, 2012- AMD (NYSE: AMD) announced its latest entry in the performance tablet and small form factor PC market with the AMD Z-60 Accelerated Processing Unit (APU). The AMD Z-60 is AMD's lowest power APU, delivering unprecedented performance and AMD AllDayTM power for tablet form factors as thin as 10mm. A compelling combination of features, stunning graphics, support for the latest Microsoft Windows® 8 applications and user interfaces, as well as compatibility with Windows® 7 and the full-suite of legacy Windows applications, makes the AMD Z-60 APU an ideal solution for a range of designs. The first tablets based on the AMD Z-60 APU are expected to launch globally this year in conjunction with availability of Windows 8. "Tablet users seeking an uncompromised experience for both creating and consuming content on the Microsoft Windows 8 platform now have a performance-driven, affordable option with the AMD Z-60 APU," said Steve Belt, corporate vice president of Ultra-Low Power Products, AMD. "We see a large gap between the lower performance and high-price competitive offerings that allow AMD to be in tablet designs that will please our customers and end users alike." The AMD Z-60 APU comes loaded with features designed to enhance the tablet experience, including AMD Start Now technology that allows fast boot and resume from sleep times1, up to eight hours of battery life while Web browsing, and up to six hours of HD video playback2. Just as impressive is the stunning visual quality delivered by the AMD RadeonTM graphics on the APU, with support for full HD 1080p resolution, HDMI output for external displays, and impressive gaming performance with Microsoft Direct X®11 capability. Tablets with AMD APUs can also leverage the AMD AppZone, a one-stop resource for accessing popular applications that can take advantage of the full compute capability of the processor. Availability |
| LG E960 Mako surfaces in photos, may be the future Nexus phone (update) Posted: 08 Oct 2012 08:49 PM PDT Rumors have been swirling that LG will get its first crack at a Nexus phone this year. If there's any merit to that claim, we might have just received an early peek. An XDA-Developers forum goer has posted a collection of photos for the E960, which appears to be a variant of the Optimus G -- until you realize that it's using software navigation keys, doesn't quite resemble the international or AT&T Optimus G models and is oddly badged as the "Full JellyBean on Mako." Given that Google likes to name its reference Android phones after fish, it doesn't take much to suspect that a device codenamed Mako is more likely to become a Nexus than an Optimus. The completely stock but unreleased Android 4.1.2 build of Jelly Bean certainly helps fuel the rumor mill. If the E960 does carry Google's honorific, though, some may be in for a disappointment knowing that the model that reached the FCC last week doesn't have LTE. We won't rule out that this is one of multiple Nexus variants, if it's a Nexus at all, but the 3G edition's filing hints that Google may not rock the boat for its 2012 flagship. Update: More images have surfaced, this time with the anti-spy casing removed from the back of the phone. Click past the break for more. |
| HTC DLX specs purportedly slip, stuff Snapdragon S4 Pro and 12MP camera into a 5-inch frame Posted: 08 Oct 2012 08:27 PM PDT Talk of HTC's rumored, giant DLX has veered between the plausible and not-so-plausible. We might just toss the newest tip into that former category. Football4PDA, who's developing a reputation for uncanny accuracy in leaks, has posted what's claimed to be the core specifications of HTC's first phablet. The DLX would mirror earlier expectations of a 1.5GHz Snapdragon S4 Pro and a 5-inch, 1080p display, but push past the OneX+ in more ways than just physical heft: the extra space might just help it afford 1.5GB of RAM, a 12-megapixel rear camera, a 2-megapixel front shooter and a larger-still (but non-removable) 2,500mAh battery. We're not as much of a fan of the threadbare 16GB of storage that's supposedly in the cards, though, even with a new Android 4.1.2 build in store. Provided that there's more to the story than just 136 characters, the real point of contention is the ship date -- having mostly cleared the decks between its September event and its One X+ introduction, HTC hasn't left much time for the possibly Verizon-bound flagship to show its face. |
| Ben Heck builds Arduino-based automatic sunglasses, beats David Caruso to the punch (video) Posted: 08 Oct 2012 07:44 PM PDT CSI: Miami might be out of production, but that doesn't mean we'll be deprived of casual eyewear flipping. Not if Ben Heck has a say in the matter, at least. His latest DIY project automatically swings a pair of clip-on sunglasses into view whenever it's too sunny outside: a photocell attached to an AT Tiny microcontroller checks the light levels and, through an Arduino-based AVR MKII language, tells a rotor to spin the glasses into place. No one will be labeled a fashionista with the requisite battery pack strapped to their heads, but the construction doesn't require CNC milling and won't destroy a favorite frame. We're only disappointed that the sunglasses won't play The Who on command... yet. |
| Samsung announces Android 4.1 availability for Galaxy S III in South Korea Posted: 08 Oct 2012 07:03 PM PDT It was pretty much inevitable, and true to its promise, Samsung has announced the availability of Android 4.1 for the Galaxy S III. Now before you get too excited, it appears that the upgrade applies only to the SHW-M440S variant, which is specific to Samsung's home turf in South Korea. Nonetheless, if the translation is correct, the new Jelly Bean release is said to bring usability improvements to the home screen, along with the ability to pause movies during recording and a smart rotation feature to the camera. Samsung's Kies software is specifically mentioned in the announcement post, although it looks as if an over-the-air install may be possible as well. Hopefully this news is a sign that certification for the global model and its domestic counterparts is just around the corner. |
| Ematic outs 7-inch FunTab Pro with ICS and a Zoodles mode for kids, available for $150 Posted: 08 Oct 2012 06:19 PM PDT Even though the market's currently populated with slabs such as Archos' ChildPad or LeapFrog's LeaPad 2, the race to become the go-to child-friendly tablet could still be considered as wide open. Having previously introduced its FunTab for kids, Ematic's not exactly a newcomer to this territory, and this time out the company's looking to build on that with the announcement of a slightly more powerful "Pro" model. Inside the 7-inch, 800 x 480 FunTab Pro, parents and children alike will find an undisclosed 1GHz CPU, 1GB of RAM, a taste of Google's Ice Cream Sandwich and 8GB of onboard storage which can be expanded up to 32GB by way of microSD. Additionally, Ematic's placing emphasis on the built-in Zoodles features that "create a safe and educational online learning experience for children," plus the inclusion of pre-loaded apps like Skitch, School Assistant, Cut The Rope and none other than Angry Birds. The FunTab Pro will be available at Walmart (and other retailers) for $150 -- and, yes, that includes the colorful, interchangeable faceplates you see in the gallery below. EMATIC RELEASES FUNTAB PRO: A 7" ANDROID 4.0 CHILDREN'S TABLET POWERED BY THE AWARD-WINNING ZOODLES KIDS MODE LOS ANGELES- October 8, 2012- It's an inescapable truth in this technologically advanced age: Kids love tablets. This statement can often make parents cringe as they visualize their child roughly playing with an expensive iPad or accessing content unsuitable for a young age group. Ematic, a leader in value tablets, took these concerns into great consideration, and designed a new, parent-approved tablet tailored to children. The 7" Android 4.0 FunTab Pro is sure to be a game-changer in the children's tablet market. "Ematic teamed up with Zoodles Kids ModeTM to create a safe and educational online learning experience for children," says Roy Rayn, President of Ematic. "Zoodles is the top app for kids, and leads your child through every step of the interface with large buttons and vocal cues." The look and feel of the FunTab Pro is perfect for kids with its rubberized texture and ergonomic design. The rubber coating offers a secure grip for the child, and the original shape fits perfectly in small hands. Apps and Features Some exciting features included on the FunTab Pro are Interactive Story Books, Video Mail, and an Art Studio. Interactive Story Books allow parents to make a video recording of themselves reading to the child using Zoodles.com or the device's built-in camera. Parents can also invite relatives to send a reading to the FunTab Pro using their own computer. The Video Mail feature allows invited family members to send short video messages to the FunTab Pro from Zoodles.com. The child can respond by recording their own message using the tablet's built-in camera. Art Studio encourages creativity and outside-the-box thinking as the child can make their own unique drawings without the mess of art supplies. Parents can view all of their children's masterpieces on Zoodles.com, and choose their favorites with a gold star. Children can enjoy a bundle of fun games on the FunTab Pro including Angry Birds, Where's My Water?, Cut The Rope, Skitch, School Assistant, Fruit Ninja, educational apps from Intellijoy and much more. There's even a kid safe web browser full of kid-friendly content. Zoodles.com Specifications The FunTab Pro retails for $149.99 at Walmart.com. You can customize your FunTab Pro with the included interchangeable faceplates which come in blue, pink and red. About Ematic: About Zoodles: |
| Boxee TV streaming / OTA set-top box and DVR pics leak out Posted: 08 Oct 2012 05:38 PM PDT If you've been wondering "what will Boxee do next?" there appears to be an answer. A tipster has sent The Verge pics of a new set-top box, still built by D-Link, that ditches the original's angular design for a more conventional shape and integrates live TV tuning support as well as DVR capabilities. There's no word on the storage capabilities, but the box advertises an included antenna and remote (lightly refreshed, losing the QWERTY keyboard) and implores owners to "stop wasting money on stuff you don't watch." Boxee's healthy support for internet content, both streamed and locally stored, is still intact and a survey suggests support for viewing content on mobile devices. Not mentioned? Cloudee integration or any cable TV support, encrypted, ClearQAM or otherwise. There's a few more pics beyond the source link, we'll start updating our CES watchlist now. |
| Join the Engadget HD Podcast live on Ustream at 8:30PM ET Posted: 08 Oct 2012 04:55 PM PDT Google Play Music and Movies purchasing reaches Google TV, patches a media strategy hole
This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| Google drafts checklist for making top-notch Android tablet apps Posted: 08 Oct 2012 04:31 PM PDT Google's Senior Mobile VP Andy Rubin has been cool towards tablet apps, arguing that mobile titles shouldn't be tuned to a specific form factor. Whether you agree with that assessment or not, his company has produced an (arguably overdue) tablet app checklist to help developers with big screen ambitions. The step-by-step walkthrough tells developers how to make the most of all that free space and optimize for the larger hardware, touch input targets and widgets. There's a difference between having guidelines and getting app writers to follow them, but the checklist is an important step towards keeping that Galaxy Note 10.1 or Nexus 7 well-fed. |
| Moto pulls phones and tablets from German site pending software update Posted: 08 Oct 2012 04:03 PM PDT We wouldn't quite call it an unexpected turn of events, but it certainly qualifies as dramatic -- Motorola has pulled almost every Android device in its roster from its German site, leaving only the RAZR HD and RAZR i behind. German site Areamobile first reported the disappearance, and received word from Moto PR that the devices were removed while the OS was "being reworked." Though the company did not say it expressly, it appears the removal is related the various lost patent suits and injunctions awarded to its competitors. The manufacturer has been promising software fixes to address those complaints since early summer, but has yet to deliver them. We're sure the Xoom family and its sizable stable of mid-range phones will return to the site in good time, though, it wouldn't be a tragedy if the only surviving options were the newest members of the RAZR family. They're certainly the most compelling products currently offered (or soon to be offered) by the Google property. |
| Verizon teases black and brown Galaxy S III models for the subtle crowd Posted: 08 Oct 2012 03:28 PM PDT AT&T might have nabbed Verizon's color for the Galaxy S III, but that doesn't mean Big Red subscribers will be left out. The CDMA carrier has just posted a rotating teaser on its home page promising the low-key black and brown versions of Samsung's flagship sometime "soon," with availability sign-ups on hand for the impatient. That's all we know for now, although history suggests there won't be a premium over the $200 contract price of the existing blue and white models. We're hoping the new shades of Galaxy come soon -- Verizon's offering will be the first chance most Americans have to get the Android phone in muted colors and relive the glory days of brown electronics. |
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