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- Engadget HD Podcast 313 - 08.28.2012
- AMD FX-4130 delivers 3.8GHz quad-core on a budget, A-Series chips get even cheaper
- Microsoft SkyDrive for Android app is now available, joins its mobile counterparts for cloud access
- Mild-mannered Samsung Galaxy S II update brings Isis mobile payment support
- Sphero gets a firmware upgrade and new apps, we get another look at its Augmented Reality Engine (video)
- Craigslist quietly switching to OpenStreetMap data
- Samsung's S Launcher puts the Start menu back in Windows 8
- The Engadget Show 35: EVs in Portland, hacked bicycles and a Tesla Model S test drive
- ZTE launching Grand X LTE on China Mobile in Hong Kong
- Verizon Turbine 7.0 in the works, likely to be ZTE V66 tablet
- Xbox 360 YouTube app update rolls out with 5x speed improvement, access to 'official' music videos
- LG Spectrum 2 caught posing with docks and cases
- Firefox 15 to arrive in finished form on August 29th, promises truly stealthy updates for all (update 2: stand-alone, Android too)
- Voice signals sent to Mars and back, while telephoto images tease rich geology
- Apple strikes licensing deal with Motorola in Germany, heralds more peaceful times?
- Samsung expands Galaxy S III colors: yes, you can get brown
- We're live from IFA 2012 in Berlin!
- Sony NEX 5R specs reportedly leaked ahead of tomorrow's launch
- Spherical glass lens concentrates sunlight by up to 10,000 times, boosts solar cell efficiency
- Maingear Solo 21 receives a makeover, $899 all-in-one PC is now fully upgradable
- More OnLive management moves: Perlman out, as investor Lauder settles for Chairman
- LG EA93 21:9 aspect ratio 29-inch LCD spotted on IFA show floor (eyes-on)
- Insert Coin: Public Lab DIY Spectrometer wants to be the 'Shazam of materials'
- Former Rdio software engineer joins Google's Project Glass team
- PS Vita v1.80 update now available, PSOne titles for download revealed (video)
- Garmin Forerunner 10 is a GPS watch designed for outdoor fitness, we go hands-on
- Barnes & Noble bringing Nook Simple Touch with GlowLight to UK retailer John Lewis in the fall
- Foxconn announces $226 million half-year net loss, blames usual suspects
- Sony A99 rumored specs leak: 24.3 megapixels, 921k-dot LCD and 14 bit RAW output
- Samsung announces Drive Link, a car-friendly app with MirrorLink integration
- ASUS launches PB278Q WQHD monitor for pros and gamers that appreciate accurate colors
- Everything Everywhere signs 5-year deal with MasterCard for mobile payments
- HTC Proto goes under spycam, reveals secret identity: the Desire X
- Samsung unveils new Series 7 and Series 5 AIOs: Windows 8 and gesture recognition for $749 and up
- India planning fresh 2G spectrum auctions for November 12th
- Ubuntu 12.10 adds Photo Lens for searching photos stored locally and online
- LG Optimus G revealed: 1.5GHz quad-core CPU, ICS, LTE, 4.7-inch screen with in-cell touch
- T-Mobile memo asks staff to sell 'against the iPhone' on September 21st
- LG preps 21:9 aspect ratio EA93 and WQHD EA83 series IPS LCD monitors for debut at IFA 2012
- Bluetooth SIG releases certifications for fitness devices aimed at runners and cyclists
| Engadget HD Podcast 313 - 08.28.2012 Posted: 28 Aug 2012 11:40 AM PDT Get the podcast 25:37 - NBC News app for Xbox 360 brings streaming show clips to the console Hear the podcast This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| AMD FX-4130 delivers 3.8GHz quad-core on a budget, A-Series chips get even cheaper Posted: 28 Aug 2012 11:21 AM PDT |
| Microsoft SkyDrive for Android app is now available, joins its mobile counterparts for cloud access Posted: 28 Aug 2012 10:59 AM PDT Microsoft's promise to bring a SkyDrive app to Android devices a few days ago has been kept. The folks in Redmond have announced that the aforementioned mobile software is now available for those who fancy Google's operating system. As you might expect, the list of features follows suit with the existing iOS and Windows Phone applications -- including multiple photo or video uploads, file sharing, opening stored files and file management with the ability to sort folders. While the app was built to work best with Android 4.0, it'll play nice with any handset that runs Gingerbread and above. If you're ready to install, a few clicks will do just that via the Google Play link below. |
| Mild-mannered Samsung Galaxy S II update brings Isis mobile payment support Posted: 28 Aug 2012 10:37 AM PDT Mobile payments, those made from a phone and typically via NFC, haven't exactly had a huge impact on the average American consumer just yet, but look past that and you'll see a battle is brewing. Google had been making the most noise, with its Google Wallet, but today the competing service Isis just launched its first proper salvo. The T-Mobile version of the Galaxy S II is currently receiving an OTA update (T989UVLH1) that, among a few other tweaks, enables support for Isis NFC payments, making it the first such device on the market. Many more are inbound from AT&T and Verizon as well, setting the stage for an epic virtual currency battle that only the peaceniks at the Mobile Payments Committee stand a chance of mitigating. |
| Posted: 28 Aug 2012 10:12 AM PDT You remember Sphero, right? Last we checked in with its creators from Orbotix at E3, the $130 robotic ball was getting ready to act as a 3D controller and the guide point for an Augmented Reality Engine. This week, along with the release of a firmware upgrade, a few new free apps have been released, including two that'll let you use that 3D controller functionality. Better yet, Orbotix has given us a sneak peek at the progress it's made on the AGR since we last checked it out. Join us past the break if you're curious to find out more.
With the firmware upgrade, the company is touting a plethora of improvements -- most of which are related to developers (details are available at the source link). For the end user, however, a trio of fixes should make using a the ball a much more pleasant experience. To start, when Sphero is placed on its inductive charging base, it'll now automatically spin itself into an ideal position for the most efficient charge possible. Getting the ball oriented during each use has also been approved with Fast Aiming -- Sphero can now spin 10x faster during each initial setup where a blue dot appears inside of it to get aligned with a user. Lastly, the ball has received a sportier tuning of sorts, thanks to Vector Drive. Previously, commanding Sphero to perform a drastic turn would require it to arc around, making maneuvers it in tight areas tricky. Now, however, it can essentially change directions on dime, which is also helpful when it hits a wall -- check out the excessively dramatized video above to see for yourself.
Moving past the 3D controlled games, you'll be able to try the likes of Tag for iOS (a mixture of Red Light Green Light and tag with "collision detection" for setting who is "it"), Colograb (a table-top, reflex-oriented party game) and an enhanced version of Sphero Golf -- not to mention the latest version of the Sphero SDK. We're also told that, come September 14th, the Sphero, Drive and SpheroCam apps will be bundled into one enhanced app dubbed Sphero V2 and that Dooble Grub will join the 3D-controlled app party. As expected, all of the aforementioned apps are completely free, as Orbotix has touted from the beginning.
Edgar Alvarez contributed to this post. Sphero Rolls Out New Apps to Turn You Into a Baller - Debut of new apps for Sphero robotic gaming system presents a new set of entertainment possibilities BOULDER, Colorado, Aug. 28, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Orbotix, the makers behind Sphero, the first robotic ball controlled by smartphones, today announced six new apps including its first multiplayer and arcade-style games. The games, which include space fighting, tag, golf and a crazed rabbit, are designed around the Sphero gaming system which is controlled with a tilt, touch, or swing from a smartphone or tablet. The apps join Sphero's collection of games designed to reinvent how games and robots (and friends and families) play together. "With all the new games and existing apps available, there are even more possibilities for how you can engage with Sphero every day," said Paul Berberian, CEO of Orbotix. "Our multi-player apps make Sphero the perfect addition to any party while our new single-player games provide hours of entertainment." Want to turn yourself into a baller? Check out the new Sphero apps: Exile – Think beyond traditional, arcade-style space fighter gameplay and fly through space while destroying enemies and collecting energy cores. *Doodle Grub and Sphero v2 available September 14th. To watch these apps in action, visit https://vimeo.com/48044081. All apps will be available for free in the iOS and Android app stores. To enjoy new games and adventures every day through Sphero apps, Sphero can be purchased at gosphero.com, firebox.com, amazon.co.uk For more information, please visit: http://www.gosphero.com/company/presskit/. To view Sphero's current app catalog, please visit: http://www.gosphero.com/apps/. |
| Craigslist quietly switching to OpenStreetMap data Posted: 28 Aug 2012 09:58 AM PDT TPM is reporting that Craigslist is embedding maps on its housing adverts from crowdsourced mapping site, OpenStreetMap. While the listings-site isn't boasting of the change, it's the fourth major name to dump Google's service after Foursquare, Wikipedia Mobile and Apple. While Mountain View has cut the cost of accessing its Maps API, it looks like budget-conscious corporations may be looking elsewhere. |
| Samsung's S Launcher puts the Start menu back in Windows 8 Posted: 28 Aug 2012 09:33 AM PDT You know those fresh new Series 7 all-in-ones Samsung outed in the wee hours of this morning? Well, it turns out that while those desktops will be running Windows 8, Mashable discovered that they've got a little something extra added to Microsoft's stock OS: a Start Menu. Called the S Launcher, it's a widget that replaces that tried and true Start button the folks in Redmond saw fit to eliminate in Win8. As you might expect, it grants access to settings, files and programs in one convenient window, and making additions to the widget is a drag-and-drop affair. So, all you folks having fits about the Start button's disappearance, fear not, Samsung's got the software to soothe your troubled mind. |
| The Engadget Show 35: EVs in Portland, hacked bicycles and a Tesla Model S test drive Posted: 28 Aug 2012 09:00 AM PDT With a transportation themed episode, it only seemed natural to take the Engadget Show out of our traditional digs -- it was also a great excuse to visit one of our favorite cities in the world: Portland, Oregon. We drove Mitsubishi's i-MiEV EV around the Northwestern green mecca, stopping at some great PDX spots along the way, including the amazing Ground Kontrol arcade, Hand-Eye Supply and the hackerspace, Brain Silo. We also took the time to speak to some PDX residents, including Core77 co-founder Eric Ludlum and some local modders showing off their homebrew projects. Also, Brian travels out to Boston to ride along with a gang of bike hackers, Myriam takes the Tesla Model S for a spin around the streets of San Francisco and Michael does his best not to fall off the DTV Shredder in the California desert. And, as always, we got a pile of the month's latest and greatest gadgets, including the Google Nexus 7, Hasbro's new Lazer Tag guns and a quick trip around OS X Mountain Lion. Also: comic books, donuts and plenty of EV road trip shenanigans. Click through the break to tune in! Hosts: Tim Stevens, Brian Heater Download the Show: The Engadget Show - 035 (HD) / The Engadget Show - 035 (iPod / iPhone / Zune formatted) / The Engadget Show - 035 (Small) Subscribe to the Show: [iTunes] Subscribe to the Show directly in iTunes (MP4). This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| ZTE launching Grand X LTE on China Mobile in Hong Kong Posted: 28 Aug 2012 08:50 AM PDT ZTE's LTE-capable version of its Grand X smartphone will arrive on China Mobile's GSM network at the end of this month. The Grand X LTE (T82) is the company's first single-chip LTE handset, coming with a 1.5GHz dual-core CPU, 8-megapixel rear camera and Ice Cream Sandwich. It'll arrive in Hong Kong on August 31st, setting locals hack HK$3,180, before being rolled out to the rest of Asia-Pacific from Q3. ZTE's Global Debut of Grand X LTE (T82) with China Mobile Hong Kong ZTE: the first China Mainland vendor to launch 4G LTE smartphone 28 August 2012, Hong Kong – ZTE Corporation ("ZTE") (H share stock code: 0763.HK/ A share stock code: 000063.SZ), a publicly-listed global provider of telecommunications equipment and mobile devices, announced today the global launch of the Grand X LTE (T82) in Hong Kong in partnership with China Mobile Hong Kong Company Limited ("CMHK"). The Grand X LTE (T82) is the company's first single-chip LTE smartphone equipped with a 1.5 GHz dual-core CPU, which is based on advanced 28nm technology. When compared to most phone models available in the market, the single-chip model is faster and more energy efficient. It showcases a 4.3-inch qHD screen which provides an exceptional HD quality visual experience. The device has an 8 mega pixel rear camera that supports 1080p HD video shooting and playback. The camera module with enhanced flash light captures the sharpest images day and night. In addition, there is a front camera that supports 720p HD video calls. The Grand X LTE (T82) is also WiFi capable and uses Android 4.0. The maximum download rate of 100M plus the robust configuration of the product allows users to download over 600,000 Android applications and enjoy a brand new mobile experience. The Grand X LTE (T82) also has a unique buttonless design resembling a mini tablet PC. Following the global premiere in Hong Kong, ZTE will also roll out the product in Asia Pacific in the third quarter 2012. As the flagship of the Grand series products, the Grand X LTE (T82) will further advance ZTE's position in the global mid to high-end smartphone market. "ZTE is proud to continue its leadership in 4G with the launch of the Grand X LTE (T82)," said Mr. He Shiyou, Executive Vice President and Head of Terminal Division of ZTE. "We are the first China Mainland company to launch 4G LTE smartphones globally and are confident of its success in the market." "We are very pleased to partner with ZTE and be the first mobile network operator in the world to roll out the Grand X LTE (T82). It offers exceptional design and innovative features at a competitive price," said Mr. Sean Lee, Director and Chief Executive Officer of CMHK. "Through this partnership, we'll be able to enrich our product portfolio, and provide our Hong Kong customers with an exceptional yet affordable 4G handset powered by a robust and reliable 4G service." ZTE is a frontrunner in the LTE space. It offers a full series of 4G/LTE terminals products, including tablet PC, pocket WiFi hotspot, modem and broadband customer premises equipment (CPE). The company now holds 7 per cent of all global LTE patents among vendors. Grand X LTE (T82) will soon be available at all CMHK shops in Hong Kong on 31 August 2012 for HK $3,180. Customers can sign up for service plans for Grand X LTE (T82) with promotional discounts and interest-free installment. |
| Verizon Turbine 7.0 in the works, likely to be ZTE V66 tablet Posted: 28 Aug 2012 08:33 AM PDT What you see above isn't a whole lot to go off of in terms of details, but it's still a bit significant for tablet fans regardless. The image, which displays a page hiding deep within Verizon's internal system, offers the first confirmation of the ZTE V66 tablet's destiny: it shall ride onto Big Red's LTE network as the Verizon Turbine 7.0. We guess the latter name is the catchier of the two. Few other details are known at this point -- hence, the incredibly bare product page -- but the tablet was originally rumored to sport a 7-inch (1,280 x 800) display, a 1.2GHz dual-core processor, 1GB of RAM and a 4,000mAh battery. We'd venture to guess that an OS jump to ICS or Jelly Bean should be in the works as well, unless Verizon wants its brand new slate to be dead in the water before it even launches. |
| Xbox 360 YouTube app update rolls out with 5x speed improvement, access to 'official' music videos Posted: 28 Aug 2012 08:15 AM PDT The PlayStation 3 snagged a new native YouTube app recently and now the Xbox 360 version has been updated, although with a different set of features. The team behind it says the new version rolling out on Xbox Live is as much as five times faster than the old one, and also has access to channels with official music videos. It should update automatically the next time (Xbox Live Gold) users log in and want to watch Gangnam Style on the big screen, or they can find the new version in the Xbox Live Marketplace -- check below for a couple of more screenshots from the new app. |
| LG Spectrum 2 caught posing with docks and cases Posted: 28 Aug 2012 08:01 AM PDT At this point, there isn't much mystery left surrounding the LG VS930, aka Spectrum 2 for Verizon. Despite the onslaught of rumored specs, however, we still haven't seen much in the way of the phone's accessories. That has all changed now, as we've gotten our hands on a few smallish images of the new Spectrum residing in a car dock, home dock and a rugged-looking protective case. We're still waiting on an official announcement along with availability and pricing (though we imagine all three details will come at the same time), but we try to convince ourselves that each new leak is a step closer to reality. |
| Posted: 28 Aug 2012 07:44 AM PDT Update: Although it's not on the front page yet, both Mozilla, reader Josh and this writer can confirm that Firefox 15 is rolling out sooner than expected -- there's no reason to wait. Update 2: It's now easier to get a stand-alone copy if you're not updating, since Mozilla just updated the Firefox front page to reflect the new version. Android users are also getting an update through Google Play that brings earlier speed updates to tablets, a personalized start page and a whole host of extra fixes, some of which come directly from the desktop Firefox 15. |
| Voice signals sent to Mars and back, while telephoto images tease rich geology Posted: 28 Aug 2012 07:38 AM PDT The Martian hills are alive with the sound of music. Well, NASA Administrator Charles Bolden's voice at least, as the agency reveals that the first recorded human voice has traveled from Earth, to another planet, and back. The words might not have literally echoed in the surrounding hills, but by having been beamed to Curiosity and back again, have made a small step towards interplanetary communication. Along with the motivational words of Bolden, the rover returned some telephoto images from the onboard 100mm and 34mm lenses. The pictures show the hills toward which Curiosity is bound, and tease the scientists with their rich-looking -- and hopefully revealing -- layers of geology. Want to know what interplanetary voicemail sounds like? No need to go to Mars and back, just click on the more coverage link below. NASA Rover Returns Voice And Telephoto Views From Martian Surface PASADENA, Calif., Aug. 27, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- NASA's Mars Curiosity has debuted the first recorded human voice that traveled from Earth to another planet and back. (Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20081007/38461LOGO) In spoken words radioed to the rover on Mars and back to NASA's Deep Space Network (DSN) on Earth, NASA Administrator Charles Bolden noted the difficulty of landing a rover on Mars, congratulated NASA employees and the agency's commercial and government partners on the successful landing of Curiosity earlier this month, and said curiosity is what drives humans to explore. "The knowledge we hope to gain from our observation and analysis of Gale Crater will tell us much about the possibility of life on Mars as well as the past and future possibilities for our own planet. Curiosity will bring benefits to Earth and inspire a new generation of scientists and explorers, as it prepares the way for a human mission in the not too distant future," Bolden said in the recorded message. The voice playback was released along with new telephoto camera views of the varied Martian landscape during a news conference today at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), Pasadena, Calif. "With this voice, another small step is taken in extending human presence beyond Earth, and the experience of exploring remote worlds is brought a little closer to us all," said Dave Lavery, NASA Curiosity program executive. "As Curiosity continues its mission, we hope these words will be an inspiration to someone alive today who will become the first to stand upon the surface of Mars. And like the great Neil Armstrong, they will speak aloud of that next giant leap in human exploration." The telephoto images beamed back to Earth show a scene of eroded knobs and gulches on a mountainside, with geological layering clearly exposed. The new views were taken by the 100-millimeter telephoto lens and the 34-millimeter wide angle lens of the Mast Camera (Mastcam) instrument. Mastcam has photographed the lower slope of the nearby mountain called Mount Sharp. "This is an area on Mount Sharp where Curiosity will go," said Mastcam principal investigator Michael Malin, of Malin Space Science Systems in San Diego. "Those layers are our ultimate objective. The dark dune field is between us and those layers. In front of the dark sand you see redder sand, with a different composition suggested by its different color. The rocks in the foreground show diversity -- some rounded, some angular, with different histories. This is a very rich geological site to look at and eventually to drive through." A drive early Monday placed Curiosity directly over a patch where one of the spacecraft's landing engines scoured away a few inches of gravelly soil and exposed underlying rock. Researchers plan to use a neutron-shooting instrument on the rover to check for water molecules bound into minerals at this partially excavated target. During the news conference, the rover team reported the results of a test on Curiosity's Sample Analysis at Mars (SAM) instrument, which can measure the composition of samples of atmosphere, powdered rock or soil. The amount of air from Earth's atmosphere remaining in the instrument after Curiosity's launch was more than expected, so a difference in pressure on either side of tiny pumps led SAM operators to stop pumping out the remaining Earth air as a precaution. The pumps subsequently worked, and a chemical analysis was completed on a sample of Earth air. "As a test of the instrument, the results are beautiful confirmation of the sensitivities for identifying the gases present," said SAM principal investigator Paul Mahaffy of NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Md. "We're happy with this test and we're looking forward to the next run in a few days when we can get Mars data." Curiosity already is returning more data from the Martian surface than have all of NASA's earlier rovers combined. "We have an international network of telecommunications relay orbiters bringing data back from Curiosity," said JPL's Chad Edwards, chief telecommunications engineer for NASA's Mars Exploration Program. "Curiosity is boosting its data return by using a new capability for adjusting its transmission rate." Curiosity is 3 weeks into a two-year prime mission on Mars. It will use 10 science instruments to assess whether the selected study area ever has offered environmental conditions favorable for microbial life. JPL manages the mission for NASA's Science Mission Directorate in Washington. The rover was designed, developed and assembled at JPL. NASA's DSN is an international network of antennas that supports interplanetary spacecraft missions and radio and radar astronomy observations for the exploration of the solar system and the universe. The network also supports selected Earth-orbiting missions. |
| Apple strikes licensing deal with Motorola in Germany, heralds more peaceful times? Posted: 28 Aug 2012 07:17 AM PDT Motorola's war with Apple has certainly been overshadowed by the showdown with Samsung. But, with the latter melodrama shifting into quiet mode, focus is coming back to the battle with Moto. That ongoing story has taken a rather unexpected turn, however. A filing on Monday revealed that the Google subsidiary has agreed to license some (if not all) of its standards-essential patents to Cupertino... in Germany, at least. When exactly the deal was struck isn't clear, and neither side has announced a royalty rate as of yet. It could be that the German courts will decide what is appropriate according to FRAND rules, but the agreement also includes an admission by Apple that it is liable for past damages relating to these patents. The terms seem to include only "cellular standard-essential" patents, which means the company's claims regarding WiFi and video codecs could still be used as an avenue of attack. But, with at least one set of FRAND patents set aside, we wouldn't be surprised if the rest followed. It may be that Moto has simply decided to pick its fights more carefully, in light Apple's recent legal victory and growing pressure from the European Commission surrounding potential abuse of standards-essential patents. Or, it could be an olive branch and a sign that the patent wars are winding down -- a possibility we'd joyously embrace. |
| Samsung expands Galaxy S III colors: yes, you can get brown Posted: 28 Aug 2012 07:15 AM PDT Samsung just couldn't relegate itself to a two-tone, blue and white Galaxy S III universe -- the company is using the run-up to IFA 2012 to triple the size of its smartphone's palette. We've seen the Garnet Red model arrive early at AT&T, but it now looks to be spreading abroad; the previously leaked Sapphire Black is equally official for those who don't think the original blue is dark enough. We're also seeing two more colors that have been relatively undiscovered, including a Titanium Gray and an unconventional Amber Brown. No, not that kind of brown, although it may be the first time in awhile that earthy hue has claimed such a high profile. Color choices will vary depending on the carrier or store, which leaves a distinct chance that you'll be switching networks or hunting down importers if you've got to have just the right shade of Hyperglaze in your life. |
| We're live from IFA 2012 in Berlin! Posted: 28 Aug 2012 07:00 AM PDT Have you ever visited a state fair in the US? Picture the fairgrounds -- perhaps enlarged several fold -- filled to the brim with ultra-slim televisions, giant smartphones, tablets, laptops and enough washers and dryers to keep the entire population of Germany's wardrobe squeaky clean. That's IFA. There may not be any deep-fried Oreos at this Messe (though you will find plenty of Brezels and Bier), but there's more than enough to keep us entertained for a full week, and then some. The fun kicks off tomorrow afternoon with Sony's annual press conference, followed by Samsung Unpacked where we expect to see a Galaxy S III-like successor to last year's blockbuster Note. Then chaos ensues, when the two dozen exhibition halls open to the public, and tens of thousands of curious consumers mix with industry reps and journalists, pushing and shoving their way to the hottest gadgets from every category, be it high-end home theater or personal grooming (read: electric toothbrush/water flosser duos). Rest assured that we'll focus our efforts on the former, and you can stay on top of all the news as it happens using our "ifa2012" tag. |
| Sony NEX 5R specs reportedly leaked ahead of tomorrow's launch Posted: 28 Aug 2012 06:41 AM PDT Sony Alpha Rumors is claiming to have a big pile of specs for what's presumed to be the NEX-5R, so with a fistful of sodium chloride at the ready, here goes. The site believes the new mirrorless ILC will pack a 16.1-megapixel APS-C sensor, low-light sensitivity up to 25,600 and the same tiltable three-inch screen we saw in the NEX-F3. It's also saying that we can expect to see 99-point phase-detection and 25 contrast autofocus points, with 1920 x 1080 HD video recording at 60p and a battery that'll take 400 pictures on a single charge. If those facts have gotten your purchasing-fingers twitchy, we'll be at Sony's press conference tomorrow to find out all the gory details. |
| Spherical glass lens concentrates sunlight by up to 10,000 times, boosts solar cell efficiency Posted: 28 Aug 2012 06:22 AM PDT Eking out more power from solar cells is an ongoing challenge for scientists, and now architect André Broessel has developed a spherical glass energy generator that's said to improve efficiency by 35 percent. Acting as a lens, the rig's large water-filled orb concentrates diffused daylight or moonlight onto a solar cell with the help of optical tracking to harvest electricity. In certain configurations, the apparatus can be used for solar thermal energy generation and even water heating. In addition to the oversized globe, Broessel has cooked up a mobile version of the contraption for domestic use and an array of much smaller ball lenses with dual-axis tracking that offers 40 percent efficiency. These devices aren't the first venture into concentrated photovoltaics, but they are likely among the most visually impressive. If the Barcelona-based architect's vision of the future comes true, you'll be seeing these marbles incorporated into buildings and serving as standalone units. Hit the source links below for the picture spread of prototypes and renders. |
| Maingear Solo 21 receives a makeover, $899 all-in-one PC is now fully upgradable Posted: 28 Aug 2012 06:00 AM PDT Back in March, Maingear entered the world of the all-in-one PC with the utilitarian Solo 21. Even though the unit is now only five months old, it's being replaced with a model that's more attractive, more functional and that carries a lower price. We're most excited that the redesigned Solo 21 is now fully upgradable -- and yes, this includes the Mini-ITX motherboard itself. Available from $899 on up, the baseline configuration includes a 3.3GHz Intel Core i3 2125 CPU (Ivy Bridge), 4GB of RAM, 500GB of storage, a DVD burner, Bluetooth, WiFi and Windows 7 Home Premium. The Solo 21 also supports mSATA SSD storage and can also be outfitted with Blu-ray in place of the standard DVD configuration. You'll also find it supports the VESA mount, should you decide to throw the PC on your wall. If you'd like to become a bit better acquainted with Maingear's latest refresh, you'll find the full PR after the break. THE REDESIGNED MAINGEAR SOLO 21 ALL-IN-ONE MATCHES REFINED AESTHETICS TO BOUTIQUE UPGRADEABILITY The redesigned MAINGEAR Solo 21 upgrades its performance and its looks from the first boutique builder to offer upgradeable all-in-one PCs. Kenilworth, New Jersey – August 28th , 2012 – MAINGEAR, an award-winning custom PC builder known for custom built desktop, laptops and workstation, and the first to add upgradeable all-in-one PC solutions, is proud to show off the redesign of the Solo 21. The MAINGEAR Solo 21 All-in-one builds upon MAINGEAR's pedigree of upgradeability, no bloatware, and excellent service and support that they are known for. With more consumers looking for a full-size desktop computer without the hassle of wires and other connections, the new MAINGEAR Solo 21 gets a face lift and new technology under the hood. With a new, sleeker design, the Solo 21 also gets some serious performance upgrades with Intel's 3rd Generation Core technology, fast mSATA solutions from Crucial, and optional vPro technology for enterprise customers looking for a manageable solution. Sleek Elegant Design: Enterprise Focused Configuration Options The Solo 21 can be equipped with the Intel Q77 chipset, bringing vPro and other Intel technologies to the table for enterprise professionals that need stability, reliability, and manageability in an all-in-one factor. The Solo 21 with the Q77 chipset option supports the latest AMT 8.0 and is equipped with Intel Identity Protection Technology, as well as Intel Anti-Theft Technology. It also features a dual gigabit Intel LAN subsystem to enable link aggregation to improve Ethernet throughput, and Intel Smart Response Technology for optional SSD caching. The Solo 21 outfitted with the Q77 chipset also supports the Stable Image Platform Program and Extended Life Program. Advanced Technology: "The redesigned MAINGEAR Solo 21 is the perfect PC to meet the increased market demand of having an all-in-one PC that is more versatile for business or entertainment use. MAINGEAR continues to be an innovation leader with the release of this unique all-new all-in-one, which offers premium features, stylish design and upgradability that no one else offers," said Wallace Santos, CEO and Founder of MAINGEAR. MAINGEAR Solo 21: (Default specs) To learn more about the new MAINGEAR Solo 21 all-in-one, visit: http://www.maingear.com/custom/desktops/solo/index.php |
| More OnLive management moves: Perlman out, as investor Lauder settles for Chairman Posted: 28 Aug 2012 05:43 AM PDT As the OnLive storm continues to ride itself out, details of who the winners and losers are (mainly losers) keep washing up on the shore. Today's casualty seems to be CEO Steve Perlman himself, who -- just days after the firm reinventing itself -- is "departing to work on his myriad of other projects." In his place the former COO, Charlie Jablonski, is temporarily taking the reins, as well as continuing his role as head of operations in the new organization. Finally, completing this wave of announcements, is the news that chief investor, Gary lauder, will officially take the title of Chairman. So, as the new incarnation settles into its new structure, we'll just have to sit tight, waiting to see what the next chapter in the OnLive story is. OnLive Investor Gary Lauder Becomes Chairman of the On-demand Cloud Services Company Former head of OnLive operations Charlie Jablonski to become OnLive's COO and acting CEO Palo Alto, Calif. August 27, 2012-OnLive, the pioneer of instant-action cloud computing, announced today that Gary Lauder, the lead investor in OnLive and the Managing Director of Lauder Partners LLC, will become the new Chairman. The company also announced that Charlie Jablonski, the former head of OnLive operations, will become OnLive's COO and acting CEO. Steve Perlman, OnLive's founder and former President and CEO, is departing to work on his myriad of other projects. "Steve has created an extraordinary company that no one else could have created. He is a unique entrepreneur and deserves his legendary status in Silicon Valley as a creator of groundbreaking companies," said Chairman Gary Lauder. "The new OnLive is emerging with greater financial security and a brighter outlook on the future. OnLive is now positioned to execute against longer-term projects with our breakthrough technology, products and services," said Lauder, also adding, "I spent my first week with OnLive listening, to gather people's thoughts and suggestions. It's an impressive group, and I am even more convinced that this company is poised for greatness." The company plans to continue building the OnLive management team in key categories as the company delivers on its mission of breaking new ground in cloud services both for games and remote application delivery to thin devices, legacy platforms or any platforms with a fast connection. The new OnLive is looking to hire great people for the business development team, as well as a senior marketing leader.
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| LG EA93 21:9 aspect ratio 29-inch LCD spotted on IFA show floor (eyes-on) Posted: 28 Aug 2012 05:08 AM PDT Fancy a wickedly wide 21:9 aspect ratio LCD that's more than a touch larger than what you'll find on that unique Toshiba Ultrabook? It looks like LG's got you covered, with its 29-inch EA93. We spotted a half dozen of the ultra-wide IPS displays during a preview of the show floor at IFA, and were able to grab a few frames. You need to see this LCD in person to get a feel for just how wide it really is -- with a 29-inch diagonal panel that's incredibly short and squat, you'll be compromising quite a bit of desk real estate in order to add some horizontal pixels. From booth materials, it seems that LG is promoting this product as a multitasking solution -- the format is well-suited as a replacement for dual-monitor rigs, letting you view several windows at once without adjusting your eyes vertically. We already had a solid grasp on the EA93's specs, which include a 2,560 x 1,080-pixel panel, a four-way split screen feature and plenty of inputs, including two HDMI ports, DVI Dual Link and DisplayPort, though the product placard also revealed USB 3.0 connectivity and 7-watt stereo speakers. Pricing has yet to be confirmed, but if you're prepared to add such a device at any cost, we'd suggest clearing some desk space now -- these are set to ship in November. |
| Insert Coin: Public Lab DIY Spectrometer wants to be the 'Shazam of materials' Posted: 28 Aug 2012 05:00 AM PDT In Insert Coin, we look at an exciting new tech project that requires funding before it can hit production. If you'd like to pitch a project, please send us a tip with "Insert Coin" as the subject line. Spectrometers are a pretty invaluable piece of lab equipment. They make it rather simple to identify substances by analyzing the light that they absorb. Problem is, for the hobby scientist, they typically cost thousands of dollars. Jeffrey Yoo Warren's latest Kickstarter project aims to put these powerful tools in the hands of your average Joe, with an open-source DYI model, where the key ingredient is a shard of DVD-R. Using that piece of plastic in conjunction with black paper and a webcam, his $35 kit allows anyone to quickly and easily reveal the spectral fingerprint of any substance. There's even a $5 model that works in conjunction with a free Android app, turning your smartphone into a legit lab tool. The goal, ultimately, is to build up a library of substances that can easily be matched with samples caught in the wild -- in essence, to build a "Shazam for materials." The original inspiration was an effort to identify contaminants left behind by the BP oil spill, but Warren also touts its ability to reveal hidden dyes in laundry detergents and to differentiate wines or olive oils. For those with grander ambitions, a $300 pledge will score you a pre-built and calibrated desktop spectrometer, complete with pyrex dishes and a full spectrum lamp. To help fund this backyard (or back pocket) science revolution, hit up the source link. Previous project update: Less than a week after bringing you news of Quickdraw, the lens holster system has seen its funding nearly double to about $78,000. With 20 days left to go, it's got a pretty good shot of meeting its $100,000 goal. |
| Former Rdio software engineer joins Google's Project Glass team Posted: 28 Aug 2012 04:44 AM PDT There's still quite a few months before those lucky early adopters can get their eager hands (and eyes) on Google's Explorer Edition set of wearables, but in the meantime, the company's not wasting any time and is building up its team to have the frames as loaded as can be. One of the latest additions to Mountain View's Project Glass squad is former Rdio and Danger software engineer Ian McKellar -- who'd previously worked on the streaming service's API, among other things. Mum's the word on what exactly he'll be tinkering with at the Project Glass laboratories, though we can't imagine it'll be anything short of amazing. In case you'd like to dive into his thoughts a little more, you can check out his tweet on the matter at the link below. |
| PS Vita v1.80 update now available, PSOne titles for download revealed (video) Posted: 28 Aug 2012 04:26 AM PDT Of all the new features in firmware version 1.80 we're pretty sure that the ability to play PSOne classics was fairly high on people's want-list. Well, the update is live, and with it a list of the titles available. There are nine on offer today for US Vita owners, which are: Arc the Lad, Cool Boarders 2, Final Fantasy VII, Hot Shots Golf 2, Jet Moto, Syphon Filter, Tomb Raider, Twisted Metal 2 and Wild Arms, with hopefully more to follow. This is in stark contrast to what's available over the pond, as Kotaku points out, with over 100 titles hitting European shores from tomorrow -- somewhat of an imbalance. But, with Sony said to be targeting a younger crowd, maybe it's banking on some of them not remembering the PlayStation's golden age. Feature tour video after the break.
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| Garmin Forerunner 10 is a GPS watch designed for outdoor fitness, we go hands-on Posted: 28 Aug 2012 04:00 AM PDT Having a svelte design is paramount to the success of any fitness accessory -- a desire to avoid hassle often prompts those of us who opt for purging calories without the convenience of a climate-controlled gym to leave smartphones, and even watches at home. That means nifty contraptions like Garmin's new Fenix all-in-one wearable don't make it to the jogging path, making a compact dedicated running watch a more desirable pick instead. That's the idea behind the Forerunner 10, which Garmin is pushing as a dead-simple GPS-equipped wristwatch for runners, joggers and walkers. Water resistant to 50 meters (for ocean-floor sprints?), the gadget tracks essentials like pace and calories burned, while also keeping tabs on your coordinates, letting you download stats like distance and speed through a USB adapter and Garmin Connect. We weren't able to go for a jog, sadly, though we did spend some time with the Forerunner 10 in an office setting. The watch seemed very straightforward, which you'll find to be quite helpful as you push to match a pre-set pace, without worrying about distractions. It comes in black, green or pink, and while the company suggests that you can wear the watch for non-exercise purposes as well, both colored designs seemed a bit too bright and flashy for regular use. The Forerunner 10 is rated for up to five hours of battery life in training mode, or five weeks in power-save mode (for regular time-keeping purposes), and is available to purchase for $130. You can check one out for yourself at Garmin's Chicago retail location, or you can take a peek in our hands-on photos just below. Every Mile Matters with the Garmin® Forerunner® 10 GPS for Runners OLATHE, Kan./August 28, 2012/Business Wire - Garmin International Inc., a unit of Garmin Ltd. (NASDAQ: GRMN), the global leader in satellite navigation, today announced the Forerunner 10 running watch – a vibrant, intuitive and affordable solution for runners, joggers and walkers of all levels. The Forerunner 10 provides runners with the most essential data: how far and how fast, while also identifying their personal records along the way. The Forerunner 10 will be prominently displayed at Garmin's flagship retail store on Michigan Ave. in Chicago, IL. and will be available at local running shops this fall. See it in action, Garmin.com/forerunner . |
| Barnes & Noble bringing Nook Simple Touch with GlowLight to UK retailer John Lewis in the fall Posted: 28 Aug 2012 03:29 AM PDT Last week, Barnes & Noble spilled its plans to bring its popular e-reader to the UK through its own storefront, and now retailer John Lewis is getting in on the fun. This fall, the Nook Simple Touch and Simple Touch with GlowLight will be hitting the chain's 37 UK locations, offering up customers a chance to interact with the devices. John Lewis will also be selling the device through its site at an undisclosed date during the aforementioned season. No information on pricing yet, but other details can be found after the break.
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| Foxconn announces $226 million half-year net loss, blames usual suspects Posted: 28 Aug 2012 03:05 AM PDT |
| Sony A99 rumored specs leak: 24.3 megapixels, 921k-dot LCD and 14 bit RAW output Posted: 28 Aug 2012 02:55 AM PDT Sony's not unleashed a full frame camera for some time, so when a purported spec-sheet for the upcoming Alpha A99 breaks cover, we're elbowing our way to the front to see it. According to Sony Alpha Rumors, it'll be a 24.3-megapixel CMOS Exmor sensor with an ISO range of 100-25,600, 14 bit RAW output and a 1/8000 maximum shutter speed. Other nuggets of interest include a 102 point AF system, full 1080p HD video recording (at 60fps) and a 921k dot LCD (like that seen on the A77 pictured). When might we see this come to market? According to the rumor-mill, sometime in October, with an official unveiling in early September. Along with everything else, it seems. Head on down to the source for the full spread. |
| Samsung announces Drive Link, a car-friendly app with MirrorLink integration Posted: 28 Aug 2012 02:35 AM PDT Until self-driving cars become mainstream, it's best to keep eyes on roads and hands off phones. With this in mind, Samsung's debuting Drive Link, an app that balances in-car essentials with driver safety, complete with approval from the no-nonsense Japanese Automotive Manufacturers Association. It's all about the bare essentials -- navigation, hands-free calling and audiotainment from your phone-based files or TuneIn. Destinations can be pulled from S Calendar appointments or texts without trouble, and the text-to-speech feature means you won't miss a message, email or social media update. The best bit is that via MirrorLink, all these goodies can be fed through compatible dash screens and speaker systems. Drive Link is available now through Sammy's app store for Europeans sporting an international Galaxy S III, and will be coming to other ICS handsets "in the near future." |
| ASUS launches PB278Q WQHD monitor for pros and gamers that appreciate accurate colors Posted: 28 Aug 2012 02:03 AM PDT It appears there will be plenty of options for professionals interested in WQHD monitors this fall, and ASUS has added one more to the pile on the eve of IFA 2012 with its PB278Q. An LED-backlit IPS 27-inch widescreen display with a resolution of 2560 x 1440, it has HDMI 1.4, DisplayPort 1.2, Dual-link DVI and built-in speakers. Similar to the VA278Q that was introduced at CES 2012, it will add pro-focused adjustments for more accurate color, plus ASUS QuickFit Virtual Scale and Splendid Video Intelligence tech when it ships in early September. There's no word on the price tag, but if you're interested in something with more pixels than your current 1080p setup, there's a video from ASUS Republic of Gamers Australia embedded after the break. ASUS Launches the PB278Q WQHD Display ASUS today launches the PB278Q wide quad high definition (WQHD) display. This new ergonomically-designed 27" monitor promises true-to-life 2560 x 1440 resolution visuals courtesy of an LED-backlit, wide-view angle (178°) display. It is chock-full of features that include ASUS Smart Contrast Ratio technology, 100% sRGB color space compatibility, ASUS exclusive QuickFit Virtual Scale, and Splendid Video Intelligence Technology. It offers extensive multimedia connectivity with HDMI 1.4, DisplayPort 1.2, and Dual-link DVI for WQHD content support; along with built-in twin 3W speakers for an immersive home theatre experience. The PB278Q features a 16:9 aspect, LED-backlit, 27" WQHD display that provides 109 pixels per inch (PPI) that results in 2560 x 1440 resolution high quality visuals – that is four times the pixel resolution of standard 720p HDTVs and enables users to view more image detail and do more thanks to an onscreen footprint larger than regular displays. The PB278Q provides an ultra-wide 178° viewing angle on both horizontal and vertical planes, thereby minimizing onscreen color shift even when viewed from extreme angles. An 80,000,000:1 ASUS Smart Contrast Ratio and 300cd/m² of brightness helps enhance display contrast and sharpness by adjusting backlight luminance to achieve the darkest blacks and the brightest whites. A 5ms GTG response time ensures a smooth viewing experience. Splendid™ Video Intelligence Technology optimizes video performance and image fidelity by enhancing color, brightness, contrast, and sharpness. Five preset video modes (Scenery, Theater, sRGB, Standard, and user-preset) can be selected via a hotkey. The QuickFit Virtual Scale function to provide actual sized document, photo and alignment grid overlays onscreen so users can accurately preview and edit their photos on screen. QuickFit Virtual Scale is activated through a simple hotkey and supports A4, letter, 8" x 10", 5" x 7", 4" x 6", 3" x 5", and 2" x 2" sizes. The PB278Q also comes with 100% sRGB color space compatibility and provides users the option of selecting their preferred settings via an OSD. The PB278Q features a host of connectivity options that include HDMI 1.4, DisplayPort 1.2, Dual-link DVI for WQHD and D-sub Full HD content transmission; while built-in twin 3W speakers provide quality audio to complete that immersive home theatre experience. The PB278Q has an ergonomic design that comes with tilt, pivot, swivel, and height adjustments to ensure a comfortable viewing experience. A smart cable management design also helps to ensure a clutter-free workspace. |
| Everything Everywhere signs 5-year deal with MasterCard for mobile payments Posted: 28 Aug 2012 01:29 AM PDT MasterCard has switched up its NFC and Mobile Payments deal with T-Mobile and Orange to include corporate parent / sibling Everything Everywhere. The pairing will leverage the existing Orange Cash standard to get users onto the service, building out a person-to-person payment system similar to Pingit as they go. It's reportedly angered rival networks Vodafone and O2, still smarting from last week's 4G news, who were co-operating on a unified mobile payments service called "Project Oscar" that would have standardized the system nationwide. Given that Vodafone has partnered with Visa and O2 is trying things out on its own, perhaps the next time you choose a phone, you'll have to side with your card-provider of choice, too. |
| HTC Proto goes under spycam, reveals secret identity: the Desire X Posted: 28 Aug 2012 12:51 AM PDT It seems the newest member of HTC's mid-range smartphone line-up -- previously known as the Proto -- is actually the Desire X, according to several Scandinavian retailers (see coverage). Also, Hong Kong blog ePrice, who gave the new model the blurrycam treatment, claims that the specs line up with all the rumors: a 4-inch, 800 x 480 display, Android 4.0 with Sense 4.0, Beats Audio, dual-core 1GHz processor and 5-megapixel camera. HTC should formally out the phone this week at IFA, but its European presence and similarity to the China-only New Desire V means it's likely an international version -- without the continental sticker shock. |
| Samsung unveils new Series 7 and Series 5 AIOs: Windows 8 and gesture recognition for $749 and up Posted: 28 Aug 2012 12:00 AM PDT Samsung teased a Series 7 all-in-one running Windows 8 -- on a 10-point touch display -- at Computex in June, and today the machine gets official with pricing and specs. The Series 7 will be available in 23- and 27-inch flavors, both of which run Microsoft's latest OS on a 1080p touchscreen. The setup includes a redesigned keyboard, which is small enough to tuck under the display's metal stand, and the AIOs will support gesture recognition. The 23-inch Series 7 costs $1,099 and runs a Core i5 CPU with 6GB of RAM, 1TB of storage and Intel Graphics 4000. The 27-inch model offers a Core i7 processor, 8GB of RAM, 1TB of storage and discrete AMD Radeon HD 7850M graphics, all for $1,699. In addition to refreshing its Series 7 machines, Samsung is introducing the 21.5-inch Series 5 all-in-one, which it describes as a "kitchen-style PC." Its legs are on either end of the display, leaving room to stow the keyboard under the screen and freeing up your desk (or counter) space. The Series 5 will go for $749, and it includes a Core i3 processor, 4GB of RAM and 500GB of storage. All three AIOs have two USB 3.0 ports, three USB 2.0 connections, HDMI and a media card reader, and all will go on sale October 26th. You know the drill -- head past the break for our hands-on photos.
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| India planning fresh 2G spectrum auctions for November 12th Posted: 27 Aug 2012 11:34 PM PDT India's Department of Telecommunications has issued guidelines for the forthcoming 2G spectrum auction, penciled in for November 12th. While the subcontinent has already flogged off its 3G bands, it withdrew 122 licenses in the 1,800MHz and 800Mhz waves due to allegations of serious corruption. The country has set the starting price of $2.5 billion, a figure that the networks have balked at, saying that it'll cause tariffs to increase -- but is less than half of the $5.61 billion the country had originally sought to raise during the first, scandal-ridden auction. |
| Ubuntu 12.10 adds Photo Lens for searching photos stored locally and online Posted: 27 Aug 2012 10:56 PM PDT If Ubuntu is your OS of choice, you've already been enjoying so-called lenses to help you search through your music, videos, apps and documents. So why not a search filter for photos? Why not indeed, said the folks at Canonical. The dev team has just updated the operating system (version 12.10) with a Photo Lens that lets you search your pics by name, tag or EXIF data. What's more, in addition to searching photos stored locally, you can pull in pictures stored on sites like Facebook and Flickr, because who knows how many of your cameraphone photos bypassed your computer and went straight to the web? |
| LG Optimus G revealed: 1.5GHz quad-core CPU, ICS, LTE, 4.7-inch screen with in-cell touch Posted: 27 Aug 2012 09:43 PM PDT LG has been teasing its upcoming Optimus G smartphone for weeks after promising LTE phones that would be "second to none" and now we finally have the full specs. When it arrives in Korea next month it will be the first with LTE mounted to a quad-core CPU, thanks to the 1.5GHz Snapdragon S4 Pro APQ8064 at its center. The display is also groundbreaking, featuring LG's fully integrated touch technology -- sounds like its new in-cell touch to us --for a thinner screen and bezel. It's a True HD (1280 x 768) IPS LCD, and LG claims when it's turned off the 3mm bezel and body of the phone match the screen when it's turned off. Just the leaks indicated, it also has 2GB of RAM, a 13MP rear camera, 1.3MP front camera and 2,100mAh battery, all while measuring only 8mm thick. The only bad news so far? It will arrive in Korea next month (and on NTT Docomo in October or November as the L-01E in black and red, seen after the break) with Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich, not Jelly Bean. The software will be as we've seen on other high-powered LG units like the Optimus Vu, with the addition of a "live zoom" feature on video and Dual Screen Dual Play mirroring for external displays. The real triumph for LG however, is its ability to vertically integrate technology from its various units to create the device. LG Chem provided a battery that is the first to offer a lifespan of 800 cycles, while LG Display created the screen and partnered with LG Innotek on the G2 Touch Hybrid Display unibody tech that eliminates the gap between the glass and the LCD panel. A worldwide launch is promised later in the year, although we'd expect to hear more soon at IFA 2012. Update: The English PR is now available and embedded after the break. Check it out for the full specs, including the Optimus G's Adreno 320 GPU, Bluetooth 4.0, MHL and NFC capabilities and more software enhancements including Time Catch Shot picture selection and Cheese Shutter voice command to take a picture. Newest Premium Device from LG Sets High Benchmark for Performance and Usability SEOUL, August, 28, 2012 -– LG Electronics (LG) revealed its newest premium mobile device with the announcement of the Optimus G, a high-end smartphone that offers powerful performance, an elegant and sleek design, and an innovative user experience. As the first LTE device featuring Qualcomm's Snapdragon™ S4 Pro Quad-Core processor, Optimus G will set the foundation for every future premium smartphone from LG. |
| T-Mobile memo asks staff to sell 'against the iPhone' on September 21st Posted: 27 Aug 2012 09:33 PM PDT T-Mobile has been virtually screaming for an iPhone deal, but a memo leaked to TmoNews suggests Apple isn't prepared to listen just yet. The note tells carrier staff they'll get training material to learn "selling against the iPhone" from September 21st onwards. Why does that date sound familiar? Although we don't know if T-Mobile has an inside track on Apple's plans or is just making assumptions based on rumors, that's not the language we would associate with a carrier that has a new agreement to sell the iPhone -- not unless it's using a loose definition of the word "against," at least. As a consolation, T-Mobile is reportedly supplying updated micro-SIM kits on August 29th to emphasize its improving support for unlocked iPhones on refarmed 3G spectrum. Nothing's official until Apple struts on stage, of course; you may nonetheless want to research alternatives if getting a cheaper contract phone on Magenta trumps having Cupertino's latest and greatest. |
| LG preps 21:9 aspect ratio EA93 and WQHD EA83 series IPS LCD monitors for debut at IFA 2012 Posted: 27 Aug 2012 08:42 PM PDT It's tradeshow season and as is its custom, LG is bringing monitors packed with its latest and greatest display technology to show off. Just announced ahead of IFA 2012 are the EA93 and EA83 IPS LCDs, with the former aimed at entertainment / multitasking and the latter targeting graphics, video and photography pros. The EA93 is a 29-inch 21:9 aspect ratio ultrawidescreen (2560 x 1080) display with a thin bezel designed to immerse the viewer in the content. It can handle a 4-way split screen and connections via DVI Dual Link, DisplayPort, or HDMI with MHL support. The 27-inch EA83's claim to fame is its 2560 x 1440 WQHD resolution that brings four times the pixel count of 1280 x 720 panels and 99 percent Adobe RGB accuracy. There's no word on the price tag for either of these, but they should start shipping in November. LG UNVEILS PREMIUM IPS MONITORS PERFECT FOR BOTH GRAPHICS PROFESSIONALS AND ENTERTAINMENT ENTHUSIASTS
BERLIN, Aug. 28, 2012 -– LG Electronics (LG) unveiled two new premium IPS monitors today at the IFA tradeshow in Berlin, the EA93 and EA83. The EA93 is designed to enjoy variety of entertainment and the EA83 is specifically crafted to handle graphics-intensive applications. The most noticeable feature on the EA93 is the cinematic screen, a 21:9 display –- the same ratio used in real movie theaters –that works as a superb solution for home entertainment and multitasking. The EA83 lets consumers take advantage of Wide Quad High Definition (WQHD) resolution (2560x1440 pixels). WQHD offers ample screen real estate for power users looking to multitask and provides one of the widest color spaces available. The monitor accurately reproduces 99 percent of the Adobe RGB color palette, providing graphics experts with a superior level of imaging quality. |
| Bluetooth SIG releases certifications for fitness devices aimed at runners and cyclists Posted: 27 Aug 2012 08:11 PM PDT Fitness gadgets are great, but you never quite know what you're going to get when it comes to calorie counts, or a reading of how many miles you've run. That could change, though, thanks to a set of standards the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) is adopting with regard to fitness devices. These two certifications, which apply to running and cycling gadgets, respectively, affect the way data (e.g., cadence, speed, distance) is transmitted to paired devices like smartphones, sports watches and cycling computers. As far as SIG is concerned, too, more standardization means OEMs will have an easier time bringing new products to market -- not that there's any current shortage of options to choose from.
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