IT News HeadLines (HotHardware) 27/05/2010

Mimo Introduces 7" VESA Compatible 720-F USB Monitor
When you think of "netbook," you probably think of "Asus." When you think of "secondary monitor," you probably think "Mimo." The USB-driven monitor was practically unheard of just a couple of years ago, but Mimo Monitors has made this a respected product category in record time. Now, just about everyone seems to be looking for ways to add screen real estate, with some going so far as to install an app on their iPad that turns it into another monitor. With Mimo's new 720-F, there's no need for fancy software.
Read More ...

---

MvixUSA Introduces S2 And S4 HTPCs
iPads and other tablets may be hindering the growth of the netbook market, but the HTPC market may be hurting even more. Users have gravitated towards online TV or other movie set-top boxes from Roku and the like (not to mention the media capabilities of the PS3, Xbox 360 and Wii), leaving only a few pre-fabricated HTPC builders on the market. MvixUSA is one of those still hanging around, and the company has just issued two new boxes for those with not enough time to build their own. The main difference between
Read More ...

---

Two Major Microsoft Entertainment Execs Depart
As if oftentimes the case, where there is smoke, there is fire short behind. Just a few days after the rumor-mill began to suggest that Microsoft's J Allard, who was senior vice president of Design and Development for Entertainment & Devices, would be leaving Microsoft, that is exactly what has become official. But that's not all. Microsoft has this week revealed that J Allard is indeed heading for the exits after 19 years at Microsoft, but rather than heading out for good, he'll be taking "an official role
Read More ...

---

AT&T Installs Huge Wi-Fi HotSpot In NYC To Meet 3G Demand
AT&T has it bad. They can't borrow bandwidth from Sprint or Verizon (GSM isn't compatible with CDMA), and they have the biggest bandwidth-sucking smartphone ever on their network, and their network alone. They consistently get panned for not doing enough to keep iPhone owners happen, and yet they're spending billions in infrastructure upgrades. They just can't win. And if they soon lose the iPhone's exclusivity to Verizon, it'll be just another blow. Reports have been published lately detailing AT&T's
Read More ...

---

Should Microsoft Just Buy Boxee And Compete With Google TV?
Did Google miss a critical opportunity? Some might say they did. Google has obviously capitalized on quite a number of market openings, paving the way for true smartphone competition with Android, putting Yahoo! and MSN on their toes with Google search, and putting Yahoo! Mail as well as Hotmail on guard with Gmail. And that's just the beginning. Google is also doing their best to bring cloud applications into the mainstream, with the Google Document suite putting serious pressure on Microsoft's Office suite.
Read More ...

---

Intel Shelves Larrabee Discrete GPU Plans
We suppose even the best laid plans can fall apart, and it seems that one of Intel's most promising endeavors is no longer active as of today. In a new post by the company's own Bill Kircos, he addresses Intel's stance on graphics-related programs, giving vague updates to a broad variety of topics. But one area wasn't vague at all. When speaking about Larrabee, which the company has been talking about and showcasing for many years now, he noted that Intel is "executing on a business opportunity derived from
Read More ...

---

NVIDIA Debuts World's Fastest Notebook GPU: GeForce GTX 480M
NVIDIA seems to toss out the "world's fastest" claim pretty frequently, but based on our experience, they're usually spot-on. The company is always striving to crank out the next greatest GPU, and this time it's the notebook owners that are getting the attention. Good thing too, because we thought we would have to shoe-horn an SLI GPU setup from our desktop into our next Clevo if something didn't give soon… All kidding aside, NVIDIA is today introducing the new GeForce GTX 480M for notebooks, which the
Read More ...

---

Verizon to Sell LG Fathom Smartphone for $150 on Thursday
Don't go writing the obituary for Windows Mobile 6.5 just yet, not with the LG Fathom hitting Verizon Wireless business sales channels this Thursday. Verizon said it would begin selling the LG Fathom online and in Communications Stores beginning June 3 for $150 after a $100 mail-in-rebate (in the form of a debit card) and with a new two-year service agreement. Customers will have to commit to a $70 minimum monthly plan for voice and data. The LG Fathom looks to send Windows Mobile 6.5 out with a bang.
Read More ...

---

HL2 achievements

I just so happened to start playing through HL2 again with a friend a couple days ago and am about to finish today. Whe I exited my game just now I noticed HL2 and episode 1 were updating and was like WTF?! Turns out Valve decided to add achievements to these games which makes sense since episode 2 already has some. Woohoo good times!!!

Read More ...

---

Should Microsoft Just Buy Boxee And Compete With Google TV?

Did Google miss a critical opportunity? Some might say they did. Googlehas obviously capitalized on quite a number of market openings, pavingthe way for true smartphone competition with Android, putting Yahoo! andMSN on their toes with Google search, and putting Yahoo! Mail as wellas Hotmail on guard with Gmail. And that's just the beginning. Google isalso doing their best to bring cloud applications into the mainstream,with the Google Document suite putting serious pressure on Microsoft'sOffice suite.

But no one needs to tell you that Google is on top of their game. Googleis even looking to revolutionize the television industry and contentdelivery business with Google TV. In fact, some might say that they havetheir toughest climb yet with that one. They're battling against pay-TVproviders (think of it as a cold war), as those who provide content overfiber and/or coax certainly don't want all of your content to simplystream in via the Internet. It still remains to be seen if Google istrying to start a new revenue stream or simply take advantage of the upside adsales potential on TV as a medium, but one thing struck us right away when thecompany began to detail the Google TV platform. WithGoogle recently snapping up AdMob and a number of other small companies,it's clear that the company isn't scared of spending money. So it hadto cross their mind that Boxee is ripe for acquisition. And given thatjust about everyone in the market that would be interested in Google TVis also well aware of the successes of Boxee.tv, it would've also given Google some positivepress despite some of the confusion of what they're really aiming for withGoogle TV.

As it stands, Google instead chose to partner with Intel, Sony, DISHNetwork and Logitech, all fine companies. But they lack something thatBoxee has: freshness and innovation with a new face on mainstream content. Boxee's delivery methodis second-to-none, and anyone viewing content heavily via a PC isprobably using Boxee or has Boxee installed in order to quickly andeasily access their favorite Web-based material. So why would Googleleave a main competitor on the table, when this was seemingly theperfect opportunity to integrate Boxee's services in with Google TV?

Not like it matters now. Google's going at this with their own selectionof partners, and there's likely no changing course. So, with Boxeestill out on the market, there's an 800lb gorilla in the room that wecan't ignore. It's Microsoft, and since Google passed up what seems likea great chance to really forge ahead with a service that integrates thebest of Boxee with the best of Google, we're wondering if Microsoft isseeing what we're seeing. Google and Microsoft already compete in anumber of areas: search, ads, smartphone operating systems, desktopoperating systems, web browsers, and the list goes on. Why not add onemore? Microsoft has been active in the alternative television space foryears now, most recently with Windows Media Center, Media Center Extenders, their Internet TV offering in Windows Media Center and CableCARD support. Most HTPCs that don't rely onLinux/Myth, rely on Microsoft products, but the company has been unable to reallyexploit this market. High-end installs may rely on Windows Media Center,but average consumers can easily be daunted by the complexity of setup. And with all of those DRM loops holding things up further, it's easyto see why the standard pay-TV approach, as old as it is, still remainsso very popular globally.

But alas, let us not forget about that huge install-base of Xbox Live users, who could easily and immediately benefit from a Boxee-infused content delivery system by Microsoft and tailored specifically for their own game console...

Microsoft still has a great deal of expertise in this space, and theyhave a long list of industry partners that would probably jump atthe chance to rival Google and become "the next big thing" in TVdelivery. Imagine a Microsoft-based middleware service in place ofwhatever is currently on your cable set-top box. So instead of usingsome slow, inflexible OS to attempt to record shows and manage DVRspace, you'd have a sleek, 1080p Microsoft interface, one's that able toeasily integrate with networked PCs and networked storage. You couldeasily pull together content stored locally, on a network, from yourpay-TV provider, and from the Web.

And better still, there's Xbox Live and Netflix integration, two more critical items that Microsoft already has under their belt. Now, Google could easily integrate a Netflix search into their own offering since it's an open API that has also been adopted by Roku, Nintendo and Sony, but still, Microsoft has proven that it has an interface that works and people are willing to pay for. On top of that, there's Microsoft's own Xbox Video Store, yet another place where users can search for content to download. Obviously this gets a bit complex with all of these different venues to fetch media, but having Boxee as a central UI would allow those various portals to be assembled in a central, easy-to-navigate location. Of course, all of this brings up another point: Microsoft doesn't even need a set-top box vendor. They already have a perfect usable device in the Xbox 360, which retails for under $200 today. Most Media Center Extenders were around $200 at launch, so the value proposition of getting a unified pay-TV/programming set-top box and a game console for $200 is excellent. Google can't offer that, but neither can Microsoft without Boxee (or something similar).

Sounds like a plan, doesn't it? But Microsoft needs help with that lastaspect, and Boxee could make Microsoft a contender today. Hardly anywait would be needed; a Boxee for Windows build is available now, as arebuilds for OS X and Linux. A Boxee buyout by Microsoft would allow thecompany to immediately integrate a best-in-class Web content deliveryservice with a best-in-class media center service, and the Boxee namealone would allow Microsoft to rival Google TV in a way that they couldnever do alone. D-Link's Boxee box could even be updated to do whatLogitech's Google TV set-top box will do this Fall, and all of theconnected HDTVs in the pipeline from Toshiba, Vizio, Sharp, LG andothers could easily be tweaked to run a Microsoft/Boxee app that couldpull down content from the Web, from your networked storage servers,from your pay-TV provider, etc.

Microsoft is in a tough position if they were to try to rival Google TVtoday. Google TV will be available in a few short months, and thatleaves Microsoft with little to no time to develop a softwarealternative, rally partners and implement a solution to the market.Acquiring Boxee would accelerate the plan in a way that Microsoft may beable to have something similar out by Q4. The most crucial aspectis that only DISH Network (of all the pay-TV carriers in America) hassigned on with Google. That leaves TWC, Comcast, Cox, DirecTV, and abunch of others ripe for the picking. It's pretty much now or never forMicrosoft, and it looks like an acquisition of Boxee would be thequickest way to get on that track. We aren't certain this situation willever play out, but could anyone argue that the whole situation ofnext-generation TV would be amped up a few levels in terms ofexcitement if indeed it went down?

Read More ...

---

Kingston Introduces Entry-Level HyperX 'Blu' RAM

Kingston is known in the DIY PC builder sector as being a top-tier memory provider. They don't sell the cheapest RAM on the market, but with this kind of stuff, you generally get what you pay for. In order to bring Kingston quality to the entry-level market, the company is today revealing their HyperX 'blu' memory, which have an all-new look, run at standard JEDEC speeds and timings, and have headroom for enthusiasts to push the performance envelope.

HyperX blu is available in DDR3, 1600- and 1333MHz 4- and 2GB kits of two, and it's also available DDR2 800MHz, single modules and kits of two. As you might expect, this memory is backed by a lifetime warranty and free 24/7 tech support. Full prices are listed below.

Kingston Technology Adds 'blu' to HyperX Lineup

Entry-Level Memory Newest Addition to HyperX Family

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., May 25 /PRNewswire/ -- Kingston Technology Company, Inc., the independent world leader in memory products, today announced the release of an entry-level line of HyperX® memory modules for overclockers and gamers. The HyperX 'blu' memory modules have a new look, run at standard JEDEC speeds and timings, and have headroom for enthusiasts to push the performance envelope.

(Photo:Â http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100525/LA09928)

(Logo:Â http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/19991011/KINGSTON)

"The enthusiast community knows the HyperX name is synonymous with high speed, high quality and stylish design. HyperX blu enables us to bring these features to market at a lower price point," said Vincent Kim, HyperX product manager, Kingston®. "blu is the latest addition to the HyperX family in our ongoing strategy to match HyperX products with the various enthusiast market segments."

HyperX blu is available in DDR3, 1600- and 1333MHz 4- and 2GB kits of two. blu is also available in DDR2 800MHz, single modules and kits of two. Kingston HyperX memory is backed by a lifetime warranty and free 24/7 technical support. For detailed information please visit the Kingston Web site at www.kingston.com.

Kingston HyperX Blu DDR3 & DDR2 Specifications
Part Number	Capacity and Features	MSRP (U.S. only).
KHX1600C9D3B1K2/4GX	4GB 1600MHz (CL9-9-9-27 @ 1.65v) kit of 2 optimized for XMP	$ 132.00
KHX1600C9D3B1K2/4G	4GB 1600MHz (CL9-9-9-27 @ 1.7v) kit of 2	$ 132.00
KHX1600C9D3B1K2/2G	2GB 1600MHz (CL9-9-9-27 @ 1.7v) kit of 2	$ 71.00
KHX1333C7D3B1K2/4GX	4GB 1333MHz (CL7-7-7-20 @ 1.65v) kit of 2 optimized for XMP	$ 143.00
KHX1333C7D3B1K2/4G	4GB 1333MHz (CL7-7-7-20 @ 1.7v) kit of 2	$ 143.00
KHX1333C7D3B1K2/2G	2GB 1333MHz (CL7-7-7-20 @ 1.7v) kit of 2	$ 76.00
KHX6400D2B1K2/4G	4GB 800MHz (CL5-5-5-15 @ 1.8v) kit of 2	$ 116.00
KHX6400D2B1K2/2G	2GB 800MHz (CL5-5-5-15 @ 1.8v) kit of 2	$ 62.00
KHX6400D2B1/2G	2GB 800MHz (CL5-5-5-15 @ 1.8v) module	$ 58.00
KHX6400D2B1/1G	1GB 800MHz (CL5-5-5-15 @ 1.8v) module	$ 31.00

Read More ...

---

Mimo Introduces 7" VESA Compatible 720-F USB Monitor

When you think of "netbook," you probably think of "Asus." When you think of "secondary monitor," you probably think "Mimo." The USB-driven monitor was practically unheard of just a couple of years ago, but Mimo Monitors has made this a respected product category in record time. Now, just about everyone seems to be looking for ways to add screen real estate, with some going so far as to install an app on their iPad that turns it into another monitor.

With Mimo's new 720-F, there's no need for fancy software. Just plug this USB monitor into your machine, mount it wherever you want and enjoy seven extra inches of pixels. This new display has an 800x480 resolution, 350 cd/m2 brightness, and 400:1 contrast, and it's touch sensitive as well. This one differs from many of the company's prior 7" screens by being compatible with VESA mounts, meaning that it can be easily installed on wall brackets, adjustable arm brackets, plus auto seats and dashboards. VESA adapters are easy to find, so this one's perfect for your own DIY install in that very random spot in your basement. Make your dreams come true for just $199.

Mimomonitors.com Introduces the Mimo 720-F 'Flex Screen' Touchscreen Monitor Specially Designed for Mounting Applications

USB-Driven 7" Touchscreen Monitor Allows for Easy Mounting in a Variety of Installation Options

PRINCETON, N.J., May 25 /PRNewswire/ -- Mimomonitors.com, the leading online retailer of USB-driven mini-monitors, is pleased to announce the availability of its newest product, the Mimo 720-F "Flex Screen" Touchscreen Monitor. The development of the 720-F was fueled specifically by Mimo consumer demand, as so many customers requested an easily-mountable touchscreen monitor.

Based on the popular Mimo Mobile Slider series, the 720-F comes with a VESA 75 Standard-compatible back bracket (and four screws), allowing the user to mount on wall brackets, adjustable arm brackets, plus auto seats and dashboards. The possibilities for home, desktop, auto, retail and commercial uses are endless!

Mimomonitors.com continues to be the pioneer in bringing USB-driven displays to market, and they have grown in popularity since they allow users to de-clutter their crowded, primary desktop monitor and offload applications such as web browsers, Microsoft Outlook, Excel, and Word, plus social networking platforms like Tweetdeck, media players, chat windows, and more. Multiple vertical applications in health care, hospitality, and lottery systems have also been developed. All Mimo and iMo monitors require just a single USB 2.0 connection for both connectivity and power – meaning no extra VGA cables or video cards.

NOW AVAILABLE:

Mimo 720-F "Flex Screen" Touchscreen Monitor – Priced at $199.00

Featuring a VESA 75 standard compatible back bracket, a 7" LCD touchscreen that boasts 800x480 resolution, 350 cd/m2 brightness, and 400:1 contrast, the Mimo 720-F can be mounted in a variety of different possible placements.

Read More ...

---

MvixUSA Introduces S2 And S4 HTPCs

iPads and other tablets may be hindering the growth of the netbook market, but the HTPC market may be hurting even more. Users have gravitated towards online TV or other movie set-top boxes from Roku and the like (not to mention the media capabilities of the PS3, Xbox 360 and Wii), leaving only a few pre-fabricated HTPC builders on the market. MvixUSA is one of those still hanging around, and the company has just issued two new boxes for those with not enough time to build their own.

The main difference between the S2 and the S4 is the amount of drive bays; the first has two, the second has four. All of those are hot-swappable bays, enabling users to switch out media drives easily without having to break apart the case. Both systems feature a Blu-ray drive, TV tuner, RAID, Wi-Fi (802.11a/b/g/n), HDMI out, Bluetooth 2.0, six USB 2.0 ports, an eSATA port, a bundled remote and 2GB of RAM. The thing that boggles our minds is the CPU: there's a dual-core Intel Atom 330 included, which seems awfully weak for an HTPC even when paired with NVIDIA's Ion or ATI's Radeon 3200HD graphics core.

If you still think there's enough power here for you, the S2 will start at $999 and the S4 at $1599.

   Mvix HDHome Converges Home Theater, Gaming and Home Computing Into a Single Device

   Chantilly, VA. May 25, 2010: Mvix(USA), Inc., a market leader in high-definition entertainment, business signage solutions and networked-accessible storage (NAS) devices, announces the launch of their flagship product HDHome. The device delivers a convergence across high definition home entertainment, gaming and home computing into a single, compact unit along with massive storage space for hi def media files. “This high-end, comprehensive system fills a void in the market where users demand versatility and system flexibility. Our customers have been asking us for a device where they can store terabytes of their movie collection and have access to it from anyplace, anywhere. HDHome is a response to such a market feedback.” Said VP of Business Development, Mike Mallon.

   Built along the traditional HTPC architecture, Mvix HDHome is targeted toward movie aficionadas and multi-taskers, who value superior quality, style and multi-source entertainment. It leverages the latest, Windows 7 Media Center® platform to deliver a near-perfect user interface along with a host of networked sharing options. One can browse thousands of internet TV stations, watch Netflix® , Hulu® and easily share media across the home network. HDHome also works as the universal platform for PC-based gaming and multi-player online games.

   The HDHome media center features an embedded slot-load, Bluray player with PowerDVD for a complete HD entertainment experience. Eliminating the need for an additional set-top BD box in the living room, HDHome aims to be the center for all things HD, and Digital Media. With an embedded TV tuner, users will be able to watch, pause, and record a live TV program. HDHome uses latest video and audio decoding technology, making it most versatile media (video and audio) playback system in the market. Apart from true 1080p HD movies and images, HDHome also allows rich, HD 3D digital music over HDMI and optical digital audio out.

   Inspite of its small size, HDHome provides expandable storage capacity. It features RAID-enabled, hot-swappable HDD bays for reliable, secure storage for all digital media and documents. HDHome is being launched in two flavors: HDHome S2 (2-bay version, priced at $999)and HDHome S4 (4-bay version, priced at $1599). Both models will feature 10/100/1000 network, Embedded Wireless-N, BD Drive, Media Card Slots, HDMI out, Optical Audio Out, TV Tuner and a full, licensed version of Windows-7 Home Premium disk.

   Announcing the launch, Mike commeneted: “HDHome is the ultimate dream box for today’s high definition homes. It is the result of our decade long experience in delivering superior home entertainment devices, home theater PCs and media storage technology. HDHome is for people who enjoy and share movies, listen music, tweet, and web-surf – all at the same time, sitting in their living rooms or home theaters.”

Read More ...

---

Two Major Microsoft Entertainment Execs Depart

As if oftentimes the case, where there is smoke, there is fire short behind. Just a few days after the rumor-mill began to suggest that Microsoft's J Allard, who was senior vice president of Design and Development for Entertainment & Devices, would be leaving Microsoft, that is exactly what has become official. But that's not all.

Microsoft has this week revealed that J Allard is indeed heading for the exits after 19 years at Microsoft, but rather than heading out for good, he'll be taking "an official role as an advisor in a strategic role for CEO Steve Ballmer and his leadership team." Ballmer had only kind words to say about J when making the announcement, saying that "J has brought a game-changing creative magic to Microsoft for years, from Windows to Xbox, from Zune to KIN; he was one of the key drivers in our early work on the Web, and we’re absolutely delighted that J’s role with the company will evolve in a way that lets all of Microsoft benefit from his business insight, technical depth and keen eye for consumer experience."

But that's only half of the major moves being made at Microsoft. The software giant is also saying goodbye to Robbie Bach, who was formerly the resident of the Entertainment and Devices (E&D) Division. That's two key execs in the same division, leaving in the same day. There's no specific link mentioned, but after decades of working together, we hardly think that this is pure coincidence. Speaking of Bach's departure, Ballmer said the following: "For the past 22 years, Robbie has personified creativity, innovation and drive. With this spirit, he has led a division passionately devoted to making Microsoft successful in interactive entertainment and mobility. Robbie’s an amazing business person and close personal friend, which makes his departure a point of sadness for me. However, given the strong leadership team he has built, the business performance of E&D this year and the launches of Windows Phone 7 and ‘Project Natal’ this fall, we are set up well for success as we continue to drive our mobile and entertainment businesses forward."

Bach is scheduled to stay on the payroll through the Fall in order to ensure a "smooth transition," but there are obviously a lot of questions moving forward. These two guys played huge roles in Xbox, Zune, KIN and loads of other Microsoft initiatives. Replacing them will be a serious undertaking, and it's something that Microsoft won't take lightly. Will they bring in designers from Apple, HP or another rival? Pick a new guy or gal from the street? Either way, we could expect some serious changes to come in the company's E&D department.

Read More ...

---

AT&T Installs Huge Wi-Fi HotSpot In NYC To Meet 3G Demand

AT&T has it bad. They can't borrow bandwidth from Sprint or Verizon(GSM isn't compatible with CDMA), and they have the biggestbandwidth-sucking smartphone ever on their network, and their networkalone. They consistently get panned for not doing enough to keep iPhoneowners happen, and yet they're spending billions in infrastructureupgrades. They just can't win. And if they soon lose the iPhone'sexclusivity to Verizon, it'll be just another blow.

Reports have been published lately detailing AT&T's trouble ingetting more equipment shipped over from China. They simply cannot getexpansion equipment built fast enough to install and appease theconsumers. It has been an ongoing issue, and even the most liberalestimates in 2006 couldn't have anticipated the extreme increase in mobile data demand that would occurwith the iPhone family launching soon after. In order to deal with allthis demand, AT&T has had to get creative. Last year, a device knownas the 3G MicroCell was launched, and now it's available nationwide.These basically plug into Internet routers and create in-home celltowers to improve reception and route calls through the Internet ratherthan through AT&T towers. This obviously helps reduce the strain onthe network, making it better for everyone else.

Now, the carrier is doing something similar in New York City, a placewhere AT&T coverage is notoriously spotty. Many people in NYC saythat calls are dropped regularly, and having access to mobile data isalways hit or miss. To combat the issues, AT&T is creating one hugeWi-Fi HotSpot in the middle of Times Square, a vastly popular touristregion where thousands of images and videos are uploaded weekly fromvacationers who are eager to show off their surroundings to loved onesback home. This new "hotzone" will allow any AT&T customer to accessthe Wi-Fi network for free, which will reduce the strain on the NYC 3Gnetwork. It's a great plan, and a simple one, and it's one that we hopeis spread around as time goes by.

If every major metro city had city-wide Wi-Fi, we imagine the 3G issueswould be far less. C'mon operators, let's make it happen.

Read More ...

---

NVIDIA Debuts World's Fastest Notebook GPU: GeForce GTX 480M

NVIDIA seems to toss out the "world's fastest" claim pretty frequently, but based on our experience, they're usually spot-on. The company is always striving to crank out the next greatest GPU, and this time it's the notebook owners that are getting the attention. Good thing too, because we thought we would have to shoe-horn an SLI GPU setup from our desktop into our next Clevo if something didn't give soon…

All kidding aside, NVIDIA is today introducing the new GeForce GTX 480M for notebooks, which the company proudly calls the "world's fastest notebook GPU." It's "DirectX 11 done right for notebooks," with this card being called a tessellation monster and having a dedicated Tessellation engine for up to 5x more performance than any other GPU. NVIDIA is also bringing over nearly three times more NVIDIA CUDA cores over previous generation notebook GPUs, which means users get much quicker video transcoding, upscaling from standard definition to high definition and real-time movie clean-up with the click of a button.

And finally, the GPU also adds 3D Vision support, compatibility with PhysX and support for Verde notebook drivers. Oh, and speaking of Clevo, that will be the first company to ship a notebook with this beast inside. We can hardly wait.

Read More ...

---

Intel Shelves Larrabee Discrete GPU Plans

We suppose even the best laid plans can fall apart, and it seems that one of Intel's most promising endeavors is no longer active as of today. In a new post by the company's own Bill Kircos, he addresses Intel's stance on graphics-related programs, giving vague updates to a broad variety of topics.

But one area wasn't vague at all. When speaking about Larrabee, which the company has been talking about and showcasing for many years now, he noted that Intel is "executing on a business opportunity derived from the Larrabee program and Intel research in many-core chips." He follows by saying that this "server product line expansion is optimized for a broader range of highly parallel workloads in segments such as high performance computing," but continues on with the real kick-in-the-pants: "We will not bring a discrete graphics product to market, at least in the short-term."

That's a pretty major statement for Intel to make. With NVIDIA forging ahead on Ion and AMD forging ahead with a number of integrated/discrete ATI Radeon options, Intel is seemingly taking a back seat and reserving their efforts solely for IGPs. He also admits that Intel "missed some key product milestones," and after looking at things again, the company has decided to focus on "processor graphics," as they believe that "media/HD video and mobile computing are the most important areas to focus on moving forward."

So, no discrete GPU from Intel. Wow. Here's a look at the full post below, though the rest just feels unimportant compared to that whopper.

At Intel, there are two undeniable trends or tenets that are drivingus in these areas: the explosive rise of media - specifically HD video,and the rapid shift to wireless mobile computers that consume lesspower.

Our current 2010 Intel® Core™ processors integrate what we call IntelHD Graphics, and offer a best-in-class solution for thevast majority of how we all use our computers. If you choose our processors,you get a great visual experience for the bulk of what you do. We’veeven added entirely new features, such as WirelessDisplay right to your TV.Intel’s processor graphics will continue to be enhanced - with moresurprises - in our 2011 Intel Core processor family, code-named SandyBridge.

In a nutshell, Intel has three visual computing efforts. The first isthe aforementioned processor graphics. Since we began integratinggraphics inside our chipsets back in 1999 (and now integrate graphicsinside our processor products), the majority of PC users are now usingintegrated solutions. Second, for our smaller Intel® Atom™ processor andSystem on Chip efforts, and third, a many-core, programmable Intelarchitecture and first product both of which we referred to as Larrabeefor graphics and other workloads. Here’s the latest:

1. Our top priority continues to be around delivering an outstanding processor that addresses every day, general purpose computer needs and provides leadership visual computing experiences via processor graphics. We are further boosting funding and employee expertise here, and continue to champion the rapid shift to mobile wireless computing and HD video - we are laser-focused on these areas.
2. We are also executing on a business opportunity derived from the Larrabee program and Intel research in many-core chips. This server product line expansion is optimized for a broader range of highly parallel workloads in segments such as high performance computing. Intel VP Kirk Skaugen will provide an update on this next week at ISC 2010 in Germany.
3. We will not bring a discrete graphics product to market, at least in the short-term. As we said in December, we missed some key product milestones. Upon further assessment, and as mentioned above, we are focused on processor graphics, and we believe media/HD video and mobile computing are the most important areas to focus on moving forward.
4. We will also continue with ongoing Intel architecture-based graphics and HPC-related R&D and proof of concepts.

As important is our factory network and manufacturing lead. Simply,our process technology advantages constantly deliver higher performingchips at lower power, smaller sizes and reduced costs. We will applythis strength to bring consumers the most visually rich computingexperience you can get.

Read More ...

---

Verizon to Sell LG Fathom Smartphone for $150 on Thursday

Don't go writing the obituary for Windows Mobile 6.5 just yet, not with the LG Fathom hitting Verizon Wireless business sales channels this Thursday. Verizon said it would begin selling the LG Fathom online and in Communications Stores beginning June 3 for $150 after a $100 mail-in-rebate (in the form of a debit card) and with a new two-year service agreement. Customers will have to commit to a $70 minimum monthly plan for voice and data.

The LG Fathom looks to send Windows Mobile 6.5 out with a bang. In addition to a large 3.2-inch touchscreen with vibration for tactile feedback, the Fathom also comes equipped with a speedy 1GHz Snapdragon processor that's the current darling of the smartphone world. There's a full slide-out QWERTY keyboard with simultaneous touchscreen capabilities, a microSD slot for up to 16GB of memory, 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 2.1, a built-in MPC and WMA music player, a dedicated task manager, a proximity sensor so you don't accidentally press a button while talking on the phone, 3.2MP camera with autofocus and camcorder capabilities, USB mass storage, and a bunch of other bullet points.

BASKING RIDGE, NJ, and SAN DIEGO, CA — Verizon Wireless and LG Electronics MobileComm U.S.A., Inc. (LG Mobile Phones), today announced the LG Fathom™ will be available in Verizon Wireless business sales channels beginning May 27 and online and in Communications Stores beginning June 3. The ultimate on-the-go office, the LG Fathom redefines productivity with Windows Phone power, stylish design and smart global capabilities for making voice calls in more than 220 countries and accessing data in 200 countries, 110 with 3G speeds.

Key features:

• Sleek slate blue case takes customers from Monday meetings to Friday outings
• Large 3.2” touch screen with Improved Touch Experience and vibration for tactile feedback
• 1 GHz processor
• Full slide-out QWERTY keyboard with simultaneous touch screen capabilities
• microSDâ„¢ slot for up to 16 GB of memory
• Wi-Fi® enabled (802.11 b/g/n)
• Bluetooth® 2.1 capabilities with support for the following profiles: headset, hands-free, dial-up networking, stereo, phone book access, basic printing, basic imaging, object push for vCard and vCalendar, file transfer, and serial port
• Built-in MP3 and WMA music player with music library, repeat and shuffle features, as well as stereo sound via headset or Bluetooth
• Windows® Media Player 10 Mobile and video player for WMV, MP4, and 3GP formats
• USB mass storage for file transfer between microSD card and PC
• One-touch speaker phone and speaker-independent voice commands
• Text to speech and voice-activated dialing for up to 4,000 entries

Additional lifestyle features:

• Dedicated task manager key for quick access to mobile Task Manager
• Windows Mobile Device Center and ActiveSync allows users to synchronize Outlook®, Office® and contents from Microsoft Exchange Server® to keep personal information organized and updated
• View and edit with Excel® Mobile, OneNote® Mobile and Word® Mobile or view important presentations with PowerPoint® Mobile
• Scroll, zoom and view rich PDF content with Adobe® Reader LE
• Global roaming frequency automatically switches from CDMA/EVDO to GSM/UMTS depending on geographic location
• VZ Navigator® capabilities – Receive audible turn-by-turn directions to millions of points of interest and share the directions with others
• VZ Navigator Global capabilities – Get turn-by-turn directions and maps in English while navigating through more than 20 destinations such as Canada, Mexico, France, Germany, Italy, Norway, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom. This easy-to-use application also marks distances in miles or kilometers and finds restaurants, gas stations, banks/ATMs and other popular spots using the Local Search feature
• Wireless manager enables and disables wireless connectivity for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and cellular network
• Luminous sensor designed to adjust LCD backlight brightness depending on light conditions
• Proximity sensor instantly locks touch screen buttons while talking on the phone
• Text and send clear images and fun animations through Flash User interface support
• International charger plus up to four different adapter clips for multi-country use
• 3.2 megapixel autofocus camera and camcorder that includes:
  • Five different camera resolutions and three different video resolutions
  • Macro Mode for detailed, up close pictures
  • Panorama for three guided, sequential shots
  • Continuous shot for up to six consecutive photos
  • Scene mode for auto, portrait, landscape, sports and night settings
  • Image editor with zoom, rotate, resize, crop, added frames and stamps
  • Customizable brightness, white balance, shutter sounds and color effects and a self-timer
  • Choose between mute and unmute to record video with or without sound
  • Optimize video quality with normal, fine or super camcorder settings
  • Video recording time up to one minute for sending or up to one hour for saving

Pricing and availability:

• The LG Fathom will be available in business sales channels beginning May 27 and in Verizon Wireless Communications Stores nationwide and online at www.verizonwireless.com beginning June 3 for $149.99 after a $100 mail-in rebate with a new two-year customer agreement. Customers will receive the rebate in the form of a debit card; upon receipt, customers may use the card as cash anywhere debit cards are accepted.
• LG Fathom customers will need to subscribe to a Verizon Wireless Nationwide Talk plan and an Email and Web for Smartphone plan. Nationwide Talk plans begin at $39.99 monthly access. Email and Web for Smartphone plans start at $29.99 for unlimited monthly access.
• Business customers interested in the LG Fathom can contact their Verizon Wireless Business Sales Representative at 1-800-VZW-4BIZ.
• For additional information on Verizon Wireless products and services, visit a Verizon Wireless Communications Store, call 1-800-2 JOIN IN or go to www.verizonwireless.com.

Read More ...

---