Wednesday, September 22, 2010

IT News HeadLines (Engadget) 21/09/2010



Keepin' it real fake: white MacBook with built-in DVD-ROM, other things you never knew you needed
Here at KIRF headquarters, we've seen our share of Apple product fakery. We remain, however, impressed at companies' abilities to knock off laptops in any decent manner. This white MacBook-looking fellow, made by LeThink, boasts a few features you'll probably never see on an actual Cupertino-born laptop. This bad boy boasts a built-in DVD player, an NVIDIA Ion 2 graphics processor, a 1.66GHz Intel Atom D510 CPU, GMA 3150 graphics, 1GB of RAM built-in (with support for up to 2GB), an up to 320GB hard drive, two USB 2.0 ports, VGA and HDMI outputs, a LAN port, and an SD slot. They're available in China for starting prices of around 2,999 yuan -- that's about $440. Another shot is below.Continue reading Keepin' it real fake: white MacBook with built-in DVD-ROM, other things you never knew you needed
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Fujifilm's FinePix X100 ships March 2011 for $1,000, we go hands-on (update: video!)
It's fitting that Fujifilm's thoroughly gorgeous FinePix X100 kicked off this week's flood of Photokina releases, and now we've learned a few more precious details from the outfit's press conference. For starters, it'll be a non-zoom apparatus, much like Olympus' Zuiko-equipped concept that was also launched here in Köln. Fujifilm's Adrian Clarke noted that the decision to include only a 23mm f/2 fixed lens was made in order to not make image quality compromises that are necessary when allowing for a zoom. We're sure that'll strike some as displeasing, but those who aren't afraid of moving forward and back could probably care less. Furthermore, he affirmed that the company was aiming for a March 2011 ship date, with a retail price to hit near the $1,000 mark. That's hardly affordable, but Fuji's making no bones about this being a decidedly high-end piece.

After the presser, we were able to score some hands-on time with a pre-production model, and we have to say, this thing just feels like a thousand bucks. It's as solid as a stone, though light packers won't appreciate just how heavy it is. Regardless, the body exudes quality, and the grip was as comfortable as ever. Sadly, no fully functional units are present here at Photokina, but we're cautiously optimistic that we'll see one at CES. It's doubtful that Fuji will sell oodles of these given the limitations and price, but to the niche that's interested, things are looking up.

Update: We just stopped by the Fujifilm booth in order to grab some video time with this guy, and sadly, the model that they had on display lacked a sensor of any kind. However, the dedicated toggle switch to flip between the OVF and EVF is a lovely touch, as were the dedicated control dials up top. Have a look yourself just beyond the break.
Gallery: Fujifilm FinePix X100 hands-on at Photokina 2010
Gallery: Fujifilm FinePix X100 press photos
Continue reading Fujifilm's FinePix X100 ships March 2011 for $1,000, we go hands-on (update: video!)
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Sigma SD1 has a 15.3MP sensor, weather-sealed magnesium alloy body, and no video mode at all (update: eyes-on!)
It'd be too easy to describe this as "one for the purists," but it really rather is. The Sigma SD1 eschews any pretenses of being a video camera and gets right on with the business of taking gorgeous stills instead. Employing a 24mm x 16mm X3 CMOS sensor -- you know, the one with three stacked layers, one each for absorbing red, green and blue light -- dual TRUE II image processors, and an 11-point autofocusing system, the SD1 is eager to sweep up enthusiast photographers into its magnesium alloy embrace. 98 percent viewfinder coverage, a 3-inch, 460k-dot LCD and CompactFlash compatibility fill out the spec sheet, while price is indicated as somewhere in the neighborhood of the Canon EOS 7D. Without any live view or video options, Sigma had better have some truly spectacular image quality to show us when this thing ships in February of next year.

Update: Our hopes and dreams of caressing this rugged beast were dashed upon learning that the only SD1 at Photokina was held behind a glass box of emotion, but that didn't stop us from pointing our own camera at it and firing off a few shots. Trust us, it looks just as beastly in person as it does in the press shots. Have a gander below, won't you?
Gallery: Sigma SD1 eyes-on at Photokina 2010
Continue reading Sigma SD1 has a 15.3MP sensor, weather-sealed magnesium alloy body, and no video mode at all (update: eyes-on!)
Permalink DSLRphoto, dpreview  |  sourceSigma  | Email this | Comments
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Seagate issues industry's first 1.5TB external 2.5-inch HDD: FreeAgent GoFlex USB 3.0
Look out, world -- Seagate's got a new portable hard drive comin' your way, and it's as capacious as ever. If you'll recall, Western Digital broke the 1TB mark in the diminutive 2.5-inch drive sector back in July of last year, and now we're seeing a 50 percent boost with the 1.5TB FreeAgent GoFlex ultra-portable drive. The company's claims that this is a first of its kind, and we certainly aren't in the mood to argue. It's designed to play nice with both Macs and PCs (it's formatted as NTFS), and better still, it's all set up to take advantage of that shiny new USB 3.0 port on your shiny new laptop. As with the other GoFlex gear, this one also has a removable dongle on the bottom for docking (with an optional GoFlex Net or GoFlex TV HD, naturally), and as with some of the company's past drives, you'll also find an assortment of 20 Paramount Pictures movies that can be unlocked via license key online. She's available in every color you could imagine so long as it's black, and it can be yours for the tidy sum of $249.99.
Gallery: Seagate 1.5TB GoFlex USB 3.0 external hard drive
Continue reading Seagate issues industry's first 1.5TB external 2.5-inch HDD: FreeAgent GoFlex USB 3.0
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VIZIO's 7-inch portable VMB070 Razor LED TV now available
The first of the portable edge lit LED TVs from VIZIO that were announced at CES is now shipping, as the 7-inch VMB070 is available at the company's online store and Wal-mart stores everywhere. In case you've forgotten, it's still a 1-inch thick, 1 pound 800x480 resolution LCD screen with edge LED lighting that can tune into 1080i or 720p ATSC broadcasts through a flip up antenna, packs a battery with a claimed 3.5 hours of life and display video from a composite input or pictures via USB. You'll have to wait for the step-up 9- and 10-inch models if features like ATSC M/H tuning for viewing on the go or HDMI inputs are a necessity but with its $159 MSRP some cuts may be excusable to avoid running down your cellphone / laptop battery watching Slingboxed broadcasts at the tailgate party or out in the backyard on Saturdays and Sundays.
Gallery: VIZIO VMB070 7-inch Razor LED TV
Continue reading VIZIO's 7-inch portable VMB070 Razor LED TV now available
VIZIO's 7-inch portable VMB070 Razor LED TV now available originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 21 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Leica V-Lux 2 looks like an FZ100, shoots like an FZ100, costs a lot more than an FZ100
Continuing today's series of rebadged Panasonic shooters, let us welcome the Leica V-Lux 2. As we noted yesterday when we spotted and photographed what was still unannounced hardware, this camera is pretty much a standard issue FZ100, only outfitted with a red dot logo and more highfalutin marketing language. Let's not let that detract from what's an appealing shooter, however: a 14 megapixel CMOS sensor can be brought 24 times closer to the action thanks to a superzoom lens, while an 11fps burst mode and 1080i video recording will cause a few of your DSLR-sporting buddies to look on in envy. Moreover, given the FZ100's sterling reputation, there should be little doubt the V-Lux 2 will be a similarly pleasing piece of kit -- although after seeing the £675 ($1,053) price tag for this October, we find ourselves asking a familiar question, why the massive markup, Leica?
Gallery: Leica's V-Lux 2M shown at Photokina 2010
Continue reading Leica V-Lux 2 looks like an FZ100, shoots like an FZ100, costs a lot more than an FZ100
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Gigabyte H55 Mini-ITX motherboard and Silverstone SG07 used to build (almost) perfect gaming toaster
We know you've seen Mini-ITX motherboards before, but how many have managed to fit in a PCI Express x16 lane, two full-sized DIMM slots, and Intel's LGA1156 socket? Gigabyte has done just that with its H55 circuit slab, squeezing the basic requirements for a gaming rig into a 6.7- x 6.7-inch footprint, and the lads over at Tech Report have taken notice. Pairing that tiny rig with a Silverstone SG07 small form factor case, they set out to discover if the PC craze of the Naughties -- SFF computing, mostly sparked off by Shuttle's efforts -- can be resurrected with more modern gear. What they found was that the SG07's 600W PSU stood up to the power demands of a GeForce GTX 470, all parts were somehow maintained in an acceptably cool state without making the enclosure sound like a wind tunnel, and gaming performance was highly satisfactory. Of course, there were some compromises and flaws to both the motherboard and case, but overall it turned out to be "one heck of a midget gaming system." Hit the source link for all the build details.Continue reading Gigabyte H55 Mini-ITX motherboard and Silverstone SG07 used to build (almost) perfect gaming toaster
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Leica slaps D-Lux 5 badge on Panasonic LX5, hitches up the price
What has a 1/1.63-inch CCD sensor capable of 10.1 megapixel stills, a 3.75x DC Vario-Summicron lens, and 720p AVCHD Lite video? The Panasonic LX5? Why yes, it does, and so does this carbon copy that Leica just unveiled, the D-Lux 5. Much as with the identikit LX3 and D-Lux 4 before them, the new 5 models share pretty much everything apart from brand name, accessories bundled in the box, and that all-important price tag. If you opt for the red circular logo above, you'll have to dish up £630 ($983), whereas the LX5 -- which was criticized for being pricey at launch -- can now be had for around £355 ($554). Feel free to peruse our gallery of D-Lux 5 shots below while pondering the "value" on offer here.
Gallery: Leica D-Lux 5 behind glass at Photokina 2010

Continue reading Leica slaps D-Lux 5 badge on Panasonic LX5, hitches up the price
Leica slaps D-Lux 5 badge on Panasonic LX5, hitches up the price originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 21 Sep 2010 06:47:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Silicon carbide sensors developed for transmitting inside volcanos
There's one serious obstacle to volcano research: volcanos, like, shoot lava. Sure, you could aim a thermal camera at one from a safe distance, but where's the fun in that? On the other hand, researchers at Newcastle University are developing silicon carbide-based components for a device that they say will be able to withstand 900° Celsius temperatures -- just the thing to sense what's going on inside a volcano and transmit the info in real-time. Not only will this allow researchers to better understand conditions leading up to an eruption, it might also someday signal an eruption before it occurs. "At the moment we have no way of accurately monitoring the situation inside a volcano," says NU's Dr. Alton Horsfall. "With an estimated 500 million people living in the shadow of a volcano this is clearly not ideal." Since silicon carbide is more resistant to radiation than plain ol' silicon, the tech can also be used inside nuclear power plants or even as radiation sniffers in places that might face a terror attack.
Silicon carbide sensors developed for transmitting inside volcanos originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 21 Sep 2010 05:58:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Keyport Slide adds new feather to its cap with USB key prototype
If you looked at the blade-based key organizer known as the Keyport Slide and thought "this thing could really do with an integrated USB flash drive," you were not alone. The company's currently teasing a few images of a new 4GB accessory, which uses the same attachment as its key blades to slot in and out of that metallic shell. Even more tantalizing, this is said to be only one of a number of new accessories in development for the pricey but versatile door opener. Are these guys trying to subtly start a war with Switzerland or what?

[Thanks, Declan]
Keyport Slide adds new feather to its cap with USB key prototype originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 21 Sep 2010 05:21:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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HTC Mozart shows off Windows Phone 7 credentials on camera, teases specs (video)
1GHz Qualcomm QSD 8250, 576MB of RAM, 1,300mAh Li-Pol battery, 3.7-inch WVGA Super LCD screen, and an 8 megapixel camera with Xenon flash around the back. Those are the handsome, albeit somewhat predictable, specs of the purported HTC Mozart we have on show today. It looks and reads very much like HTC has just transported the Nexus One/Desire recipe into the Windows Phone 7 world, which isn't exactly the worst idea in the world. But you know what, every time we see one of these WP7 devices in action, we're taken aback by the swiftness of their responsiveness (honestly, Microsoft didn't have to pay us to say that... not extra, anyway), so do yourself a favor and witness this humbly-named device cranking through a Bluetooth pairing process after the break.Continue reading HTC Mozart shows off Windows Phone 7 credentials on camera, teases specs (video)
HTC Mozart shows off Windows Phone 7 credentials on camera, teases specs (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 21 Sep 2010 04:54:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink the::unwired  |  sourceWMPoweruser  | Email this | Comments
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Panasonic's $900 Lumix GH2 officially debuts: 16MP, 1080p movie mode, 3D interchangeable lens
Well, would you look at that? The rumor mill nailed it once more, and we couldn't be happier about it. Here at Photokina, Panasonic just removed the veil from its glistening Lumix GH2, a followup camera that looks to be worth every penny it'll cost you to upgrade. There's a 16 megapixel Live MOS sensor, SD / SDHC / SDXC memory card slot, Micro Four Thirds mount, 23 points of auto focus tracking, face detection and so, so much more. Like what, you ask? Like an ISO range from 160 to 12800, hot shoe accessory mount, 3-inch rear LCD, mini HDMI output, USB 2.0 connectivity, a 2.5mm remote / external microphone input and a 1080/60i movie mode.

Read on for more...
Gallery: Panasonic Lumix GH2 press photos
Gallery: Panasonic Lumix G Lenses press photos
Gallery: Panasonic Lumix GH2 unveiling at Photokina 2010
Continue reading Panasonic's $900 Lumix GH2 officially debuts: 16MP, 1080p movie mode, 3D interchangeable lens
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HTC Desire HD ROM spawns screenshots aplenty
We've already gotten a brief look at the recently-leaked HTC Desire HD ROM -- and the device itself, of course -- but those still looking for more may want to pay a visit to Android Spin, which has dissected the ROM and provided a fairly thorough look at what's in store for the next version of Sense. That includes some greater customization options, a new HTC Likes app that provides app recommendations, a brand new HTC eReader application and, of course, a number of new features tied to HTC's new HTCSense.com service. Hit up the source link below for the complete tour.
HTC Desire HD ROM spawns screenshots aplenty originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 21 Sep 2010 03:38:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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JVC's EX-S1 'wood cone' mini stereo boasts iPod dock, soul soothing vibe
Hard to pinpoint what it is exactly about JVC's Wood Cone range of products, but the mere sight of 'em just makes a good 82.4 percent of life's problems disappear. Trust us, we looked it up. The outfit's latest is a new mini stereo that's just about perfect for college dorm rooms or studio apartments, particularly if the dweller happens to own an iPod or iPhone. As with just about every other compact boombox on the market today, this one too has an integrated iDevice dock on top, though there's a standard CD tray, USB port and auxiliary input in order to fetch tunes from a plethora of sources. It's available in four luscious colors over in the Land of the Rising Sun, but you'll be left to guess as to a price. Something tells us it'll be just a wee bit higher than whatever you're expecting.
JVC's EX-S1 'wood cone' mini stereo boasts iPod dock, soul soothing vibe originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 21 Sep 2010 03:19:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink Akihabara News  |  sourceJVC (1), (2)  | Email this | Comments
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Halo Reach requires hard drive to play in co-op mode, Microsoft working on this 'temporary issue'
The Halo series has always been about addictive multiplayer experiences, so it's most disturbing to find out that campaign co-op gaming on the latest title is a non-starter for people without a hard drive attached to their 360. An issue has been identified by users of the 4GB Xbox 360, whereby attempts to team up on the baddies with your buddies -- whether locally or via Xbox Live -- is met with an error message saying that a HDD is "required for this game type." This affects both Halo: Reach and the earlier Halo: ODST. Adding extra memory via USB has been found to be ineffective, but at least Microsoft has stated that it's aware of the limitation and is "quickly working to resolve it." Standard multiplayer is predictably unaffected, so we suggest taking your rage out on some newbies while the MS techs figure out their caching algorithms.
Permalink Joystiq  |  sourceNukezilla, Eurogamer  | Email this | Comments
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NewerTech's Guardian MAXimus mini RAIDs your data in real time, armed to the teeth with tiny drives
To think it's been three years since the NewerTech Guardian MAXimus debuted. How time flies. But also too the pace of technology, which is why it's time to upgrade. The new Guardian MAXimus mini claims to do everything its ancestor did but with a pair of far smaller drives, making for a 1.5 pound package of RAID storage little bigger than a single 3.5-inch hard disk standing all by its lonesome. The brushed aluminum fanless unit connects via eSATA, USB 2.0 and both FireWire 800 and 400 in sizes up to 1.5TB, starting at $250 for a pair of 500GB, 5400RPM drives, but if you're the go-big-or-go-home type you'll also find a wallet-obliterating $3,300 package with two 400GB SSDs to make your files fly by. Strangely though, there's no USB 3.0 to be had even for that price. Perhaps next time? PR after the break.Continue reading NewerTech's Guardian MAXimus mini RAIDs your data in real time, armed to the teeth with tiny drives
Permalink SlashGear  |  sourceNewerTech  | Email this | Comments
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Leaf Aptus-II 12 snaps 80 megapixels of awesome on the back of your pro shooter
You ever wonder how CSI sleuths can keep enhancing their images all the way until they see what brand sneakers the perp is wearing? Well, they probably had a pre-release version of one of these Aptus-II 12s from Leaf. This new digital back can fill a staggering 80 million pixels with imaging data, thanks to its 53.7mm x 40.3mm-sized CCD sensor. It comes strapped with a 3.5-inch touchscreen on the back, 80 to 800 ISO range, 1.5 0.6fps capture rate, and a mind-boggling 480MB max file size per image. Should you have the imaging gear to match up to such might, you'll want to know that the Aptus-II 12 is shipping now from Leaf Partners worldwide with a price tag just under €24,000 ($31,387), or you could grab the 12R version -- which features a rotating sensor allowing you to shoot portrait shots without having to turn your camera sideways -- for €31,995 ($41,850). That's actually pretty decent value for your money, considering you'd have had to spend the same amount on the Aptus-II 10 only six months ago -- and that only had a measly 56 megapixel sensor!
Leaf Aptus-II 12 snaps 80 megapixels of awesome on the back of your pro shooter originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 21 Sep 2010 01:44:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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BlackBerry Bold 9780 in the wild one more time, still looks exactly like a 9700
Look, we know that every new BlackBerry model is going to bear a striking resemblance to the model it replaces -- that's just how RIM does things -- but isn't this getting a little out of hand? The BlackBerry 6-equpped Bold 9780 has been leaked a few times at this point, but we're seeing it now for the first time totally unshackled from Mr. Blurrycam's surly bonds... and yeah, if you had any doubts as to whether it was a dead ringer for the 9700 it'll likely be replacing, you can put those doubts to rest. Of course, when you've got a keyboard as good as the Bold series does, sometimes it's best to leave well enough alone, we suppose -- just makes that lucrative early upgrade market a little tougher to tap.

[Thanks, Dion]
BlackBerry Bold 9780 in the wild one more time, still looks exactly like a 9700 originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 21 Sep 2010 01:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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TerreStar Genus hybrid satellite phone hits AT&T at long last for $799
It's been just shy of a year since TerreStar's Windows Mobile-based Genus was announced for AT&T, offering a unique combination of GSM / HSPA backed up with satellite capability for those times when you find yourself in the middle of nowhere; in fact, you may have assumed that it had already been released by now. After all, this isn't the phone for 97 percent of the population -- it runs Windows Mobile and still works in places where us soft city folk would never dream of going -- so odds are good you never bothered to follow up on it. Fact is, though, it's just now available for the first time today, so as long as you've got a line of sight to TerreStar's bird and a willingness to tolerate WinMo 6.5.3, you'll be able to make and receive calls throughout the US, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands and in the surrounding waters -- and it's all on one telephone number. Of course, having a single number eliminates the cool factor of being able to say "if you can't reach me, try my sat phone," but let's be honest: convenience wins here. Right now, the phone's only available to business and government users... and with $799 upfront for the phone and satellite service running $25 a month plus per-minute, per-message, and per-megabyte charges of 65 cents, 40 cents, and 5 dollars, respectively, that's probably for the best. Follow the break for AT&T's full press release.Continue reading TerreStar Genus hybrid satellite phone hits AT&T at long last for $799
TerreStar Genus hybrid satellite phone hits AT&T at long last for $799 originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 21 Sep 2010 00:07:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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PS3 firmware 3.50 is a go, 3D Blu-ray movies suddenly feel more wanted
Right on schedule -- or a day early, depending on your time zone -- Sony has unleashed version 3.50 of its PS3 firmware. And as previously promised, it's got 3D Blu-ray movie playback with it. According to the Official US PlayStation blog, there's also some added Facebook integration and new methods of grief reporting. We're still updating and will let you know what else we might unearth.

Update: Surprise, surprise, it works. We were able to test Blu-ray 3D out and got it running without too much hassle, as long as the HDMI setting is on "Auto" it will detect your 3DTV and switch to the correct mode just like it has for gaming since the update that enabled 3D functionality there. We didn't see any differences in the menus with the Disney Blu-ray 3D demo disc we had on hand, but we'll be checking out how BD-Java functions in 3D later on.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]Continue reading PS3 firmware 3.50 is a go, 3D Blu-ray movies suddenly feel more wanted
PS3 firmware 3.50 is a go, 3D Blu-ray movies suddenly feel more wanted originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Sep 2010 23:27:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Insignia's Infocast gains a web browser, a little dignity in the process
Nah, it's not an officially supported browser, but it's a browser nonetheless. Chumby founder Andrew Huang has recently posted up instructions (along with a prebuilt file for those stretched thin) on how to port a WebKit-based browser onto Best Buy's self-proclaimed Internet Media Device. Currently, the browser requires a USB keyboard for text input, though the touch panel still functions just fine when it comes to window management / navigation. Hit the links below if you're looking for good reason to dust your Infocast off and put it to better use. Or don't, and just become more bitter at the world around you for no good reason at all. Your choice.
Insignia's Infocast gains a web browser, a little dignity in the process originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Sep 2010 23:18:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink Slashgear  |  sourceChumby (1), (2)  | Email this | Comments
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BlackBerry Storm3 is actually a warmed-over Storm2?
The plot thickens! You might recall that alleged Storm3 shot from a few hours back -- didn't look half bad, right? Well, remember how we also postulated that it could be a Photoshop job? It's still too early to call it one way or the other, but BGR is reporting that the real Storm3 is more of a Storm2 clone that's slimmed down a bit, lost a tad of weight, and matches up with specs we'd seen in the past, even daring to carry on with the clicky SurePress display that the Torch ditched. Why Verizon would release a phone at the end of 2010 so close in design to an existing device that has accumulated virtually zero buzz is unclear; furthermore, we're more confused than ever whether the shot we saw earlier was a fake or yet another RIM device unrelated to the Storm line. For now, we're going to chalk it all up to SurfBook mania until we get it sorted out, so hang tight.
BlackBerry Storm3 is actually a warmed-over Storm2? originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Sep 2010 22:34:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Blue announces Mikey for Flip condenser mic
Get ready for a wave of Designed for Flip accessories that take advantage of Flip Ultra HD's new FlipPort expansion port, people. First out of the gate is the Blue Mikey, which we'd heard about from Cisco already -- it's a condenser mic that plugs into the bottom of the Ultra and provides better audio, with automatic sensitivity, a mic-in jack, and a tripod mount. It's powered by an AAA battery, which is sort of lame -- we'd love to see something like this with a battery built-in that can charge the camera as well. Oh well, we can dream. The Mikey will run $69, but we don't know when it'll hit apart from a "debut" at CES 2011, which could mean almost anytime in the next year. PR after the break.Continue reading Blue announces Mikey for Flip condenser mic
Blue announces Mikey for Flip condenser mic originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Sep 2010 21:59:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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HP announces TouchSmart 310 and Omni100 all-in-one PCs
It's not just oddly random Android tablet-based printers for HP today -- the company also announced two new all-in-one PCs, the TouchSmart 310 (pictured above) and the Omni100. The TouchSmart 310 is obviously the latest in the TouchSmart line, with a 2.8GHz Athlon II 240e dual-core CPU, 4GB of RAM, Radeon HD 4270 integrated graphics, a 1TB drive and a 20-inch 1600x1900 touchscreen running the latest version of HP's Windows 7 touch overlay with custom interfaces for Facebook, Hulu, Netflix, Twitter, and HP's built-in HDTV tuner. Not bad -- but we'll see how much all those options cost above the $699 base price. On the non-touch front, the Omni100 also has a 20-inch 1600x1900 display, but it's running HP's MediaSmart Windows 7 overlay on a 1.8GHz Athlon II 260u with 3GB of RAM, a 500GB drive and the same Radeon HD 4270 integrated graphics. It's also cheaper, starting at $499 -- we're definitely a little concerned that HP's cheaped out on display quality at those prices, but we'll have to see things in person first. We'll find out soon enough -- both of these hit on the 22nd.
Gallery: HP announces TouchSmart 310 and Omni100 all-in-one PCs
Continue reading HP announces TouchSmart 310 and Omni100 all-in-one PCs
HP announces TouchSmart 310 and Omni100 all-in-one PCs originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Sep 2010 20:33:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Samsung Galaxy S Femme bundles sexism in with your smartphone purchase
You know what really bugs us about this Samsung Galaxy S Femme handset? No, it's not that it once again trudges out the tired cliché that women must love pink -- it's that it presumes gents can't appreciate the benefits of Aveda's Damage Remedy and Hand Relief creams. We totally can! And we'd love to spend some quality time with the Aveda advisor app, which comes bundled on a 4GB MicroSD card, letting it identify for us the particular products we need to buy to keep our skin and hair looking their best. But, according to the packaging, this 4-inch, Gorilla Glass-bearing smartphone isn't for us. Sigh.
Samsung Galaxy S Femme bundles sexism in with your smartphone purchase originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Sep 2010 19:54:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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HTC Lexikon shows up in leaked ROM update: is it the Merge for Verizon?
You might remember some discussion of the Lexikon about this time last month, a rumored Android piece from HTC sporting an 800MHz MSM7630 core, a 5 megapixel camera, 3.8-inch WVGA display, 4GB of onboard storage, Froyo with Sense, and a QWERTY keyboard. Sounds a little bit like the G2 / Desire Z, doesn't it? Indeed, those other models use Qualcomm's MSM7230 processor, the GSM version of the 7630 that'd be required for action on Verizon. Well, fast forward to a new ROM update leak, showing a rendered device with Verizon branding up top and a face that looks suspiciously similar to that dual-mode GSM / CDMA slider we've been tracking for a couple months (pay particular attention to the creases below the touch buttons). Separately, one of our time-tested tipsters has let us know that the Lexikon is the same phone as the so-called Merge; we hope you haven't grown attached to the flaming red keyboard, because more recent hardware revisions don't have it. Hey, maybe you'll be able to accessorize like you can with the Droid Incredible, eh?

[Thanks, HTC Kid and patlex]
HTC Lexikon shows up in leaked ROM update: is it the Merge for Verizon? originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Sep 2010 19:31:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink Android Central, AndroidGuys  |  source911HTC  | Email this | Comments
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Microsoft expanding Zune internationally, Zune Pass coming to UK, France, Italy, and Spain
It's been years of waiting, but Microsoft is finally expanding the Zune service internationally -- a move that precedes the big Windows Phone 7 launch. Version 4.7 of the Zune software will be the desktop sync client for WP7 devices, and as such it'll be available in more than 20 countries. Don't get too excited, though -- Zune Marketplace is a much more complicated situation, since Microsoft has to hammer our agreements in every country, and it's not coming everywhere with every feature. Here's the breakdown:
  • The Zune Pass subscription service will hit the UK, France, Italy and Spain, offering unlimited streaming for £8.99 / €9.99 per month but no ability to keep 10 tracks a month as with the $14.99 US service.
  • Music purchases will arrive in the UK, France, Italy, Spain, and Germany, and the format will be unencumbered MP3.
  • Video purchases will come to the UK, France, Germany, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, with playback support across the PC, Xbox Live, and Windows Phone 7.
  • Video rentals will hit the UK, France, Italy, Spain, Germany, Austria, Belgium, Ireland, Netherlands, Switzerland, Mexico, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, and can be synced to the PC, Xbox Live, and Windows Phone 7.
Yep, it's a little complicated unless you live in the UK or France, but we're sure Redmond's working furiously to wrap up all the deals it can. We're also a little bummed that international Zune Pass subscribers won't be able to keep 10 tracks a month, but hey -- there's a reason why America is awesome, and it's not just football. Full PR after the break.Continue reading Microsoft expanding Zune internationally, Zune Pass coming to UK, France, Italy, and Spain
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Mercedes-Benz A-Class E-Cell is an E-lectric limited production vehicle
Here's what you could be driving... if only you lived in Europe. Mercedes-Benz has announced, and promptly sold, a limited production run of 500 electric A-Class hatchbacks. Bearing the same E-Cell designation as the somewhat tastier-looking SLS model from the deutschen automaker, this little goer squeezes 95 horsepower and a 93mph top speed out of a 70kW motor. Those are relatively humble specs, but they also mean the electrified A-Class can last a healthy 124 miles between recharges. So long as this thing doesn't go all Tata Nano on us -- and Mercedes says its thermomanagement is top notch -- we wouldn't mind seeing a few more electro hatchbacks rolling off the assembly line and maybe even reaching markets outside the present France, Germany and Netherlands. Let's make it happen, Daimler!
Mercedes-Benz A-Class E-Cell is an E-lectric limited production vehicle originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Sep 2010 18:32:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Verizon sets up teaser page for 4G service
How would you like a "full-tilt" wireless experience? Sound good? That's what Verizon's touting (among other things) at a teaser page it has launched for its upcoming LTE-based network... but in terms of cold, hard facts, you shouldn't expect much. Dates, launch markets, and hardware all remain a bit of a mystery, but they're happy to take down your email address in exchange for a promise that you'll get the news just as soon as they're ready to lay it out there. Of course, we like to think you're better off just reading Engadget for that sort of information -- but we can't blame 'em for trying.
Verizon sets up teaser page for 4G service originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Sep 2010 18:11:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink   |  sourceVerizon  | Email this | Comments
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Leica quietly showcases D-Lux 5, redesigned X1 and rebranded DMC-FZ100
We're tucked away in Leica's high-brow design preview event here in Köln, and while it appears that the vast majority of those in attendance showed just to boast about their suit, we're strictly here for the gear. That being said, let us be the first to formally introduce you to the now-official D-Lux 5 rangefinder. Or, sort of official D-Lux 5. Unlike the M9 'Titanium' -- which the company spent a solid two hours boasting about -- the D-Lux 5 (a rebranded / tweaked LX5?) has been given nothing but a passing glance of affirmation, though we're anticipating a more formal release with specifications and the like tomorrow. Leica aficionados have likely been hearing whispers of this beaut for the past dozen months, but at long last, the unicorn has apparently transformed into a Gypsy Vanner. Though, still a mysterious one.

In case that's not exactly your cup of million-dollar tea, it appears that Panasonic's DMC-FZ100 -- deemed the world's best megazoom by critics back in August -- has been reborn as a Leica, though the shell doesn't appear to have changed at all. Of course, we've seen Leica pull this rebranding trick before, but we're sure the so-called V-Lux 2M is far superior in some way that we've yet to be informed about. Rounding out the round of mystique is the gently refashioned X1, which was seen sporting a far more luxurious casing compared to the original. Feel free to drown yourself in the images below, and keep it locked right here for more as we hear it.
Gallery: Leica D-Lux 5 behind glass at Photokina 2010
Gallery: Leica's redesigned X1 on display at Photokina 2010
Gallery: Leica's V-Lux 2M shown at Photokina 2010
Leica quietly showcases D-Lux 5, redesigned X1 and rebranded DMC-FZ100 originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Sep 2010 17:51:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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HP and Oracle kiss, make up, agree that Mark's better off with Larry
Guess it wasn't "virtually impossible" for Oracle and HP to work together after all -- the two companies have settled their little tiff over disgraced former HP CEO Mark Hurd. According to the statement we just received, Oracle and HP have "reaffirmed their long-term strategic partnership" and have decided that ol' Mark can "protect HP's confidential information while fulfilling his responsibilities at Oracle." Mark will also visit HP every other weekend and attend at least 50 percent of its Little League games. Honestly, we're kind of sad this is over, since that means Larry Ellison won't have any reason to call everyone "idiots" anymore.

On second thought, he'll probably figure something out.

Update: Our friend Kara Swisher at All Things Digital reports that Mark's given up the $30-40m worth of stock options he got in his severance from HP. Sad... until you realize he gets to keep at least $12m in cash and work for Oracle directly competing with the company that ran him out of town. Nice.Continue reading HP and Oracle kiss, make up, agree that Mark's better off with Larry
HP and Oracle kiss, make up, agree that Mark's better off with Larry originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Sep 2010 17:23:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink   |  sourceBusinesswire  | Email this | Comments
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Sony's PlayStation division looking for engineers with Android dev experience
It's been just over a month since we broke the news that Sony's working on an Android 3.0-based gaming phone with PlayStation branding, and a new job posting seems to indicate that progress is being made -- the PlayStation division is looking for a senior server engineer in London with "experience in mobile development, specifically Android." The rest of the listing sounds like this person will be involved in running an online game service, which certainly makes sense; Sony would do well to counter Xbox Live on Windows Phone 7 and Apple's Game Center with PSN on their own device. Either that, or this just means nothing -- but you know us, we're eternal optimists.

[Thanks, Saad073]
Sony's PlayStation division looking for engineers with Android dev experience originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Sep 2010 17:01:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink Android Central  |  sourceSony  | Email this | Comments
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London, New York on track for subway cellular coverage?
After nearly three years of setbacks, if New York City isn't careful it looks like London just might win the race to extend cellular service to its underground transit system. The plan laid out by London Mayor Boris Johnson calls for the UK's big five wireless carriers (Vodafone, O2, Orange, T-Mobile, and 3) to cover the cost (some "hundreds of millions of pounds," according to the Telegraph) for a system that should hopefully wire the Tube by the 2012 Olympics. Meanwhile, the New York plan came back to life recently when Broadcast Australia purchased a majority stake in Transit Wireless, which was awarded some $46 million to wire subway platforms and select tunnels back in 2007 -- and which apparently threw in the towel shortly thereafter. Unlike the New York plan, London's won't be limited to the platforms, which is great news for Britons who like to listen to obnoxious strangers' cellphone conversations.
London, New York on track for subway cellular coverage? originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Sep 2010 16:43:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink Tech Radar  |  sourceBloomberg, Telegraph (UK)  | Email this | Comments
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Leica introduces M9 'Titanium,' limited to just 500 lucious pieces
Can't afford anything that's been introduced at Photokina so far? Unfortunately for you, there's hardly a chance that Leica's newest limited edition product will be the one that slips under the budget. At the outfit's exclusive press preview this evening in Cologne, a gallery of executives from Leica and Volkswagen (who chipped in on the design) formally unveiled the M9 'Titanium.' For all intents and purposes, this is just a souped-up M9, but there's plenty to love for those who fancy high-fashion. You know, like a trim that uses leather "typically reserved for the interiors of Audi's premium automobiles."

According to Leica, "anything that looks like titanium, is titanium." It's also coated with a fingerprint-resistant overlay, and the bundle is slated to include the camera itself, a 35mm Summilux F/1.4 prime lens, lens hood, a new carrying concept (just a single hook for a carry strap), a newfangled electronic illumination system and a fanciful cardboard box made somewhere in the Black Forest. Just 500 of these kits are being produced and sold for an undisclosed amount starting in November, and chances are all but one or two have already been claimed. Good luck getting in line, and you might as well forget scoring the four millionth Leica camera to be produced since 1923 -- a specially-stamped M9 'Titanium' -- as that one's being given away to someone far more important than us tonight.
Gallery: Leica reveals M9 'Titanium' at Photokina 2010
Gallery: Leica M9 'Titanium' video unveiling at Photokina 2010
Leica introduces M9 'Titanium,' limited to just 500 lucious pieces originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Sep 2010 16:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink   |  sourceLeica (1), (2)  | Email this | Comments
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Intermec CS40 walks the work / play tightrope, WinMo 6.5 threatens to knock it off
Even phone holster users (don't be shy, we love you) have every reason to shy away from using most of today's ultra-rugged business handsets from manufacturers like Symbol once they clock out for the day -- they're just too beastly, and typically, they trade every last ounce of ergonomic credibility in an effort to be as bulletproof as possible. That's a problem that Intermec is looking to tackle head-on with the new CS40, a phone that makes few reliability concessions while stepping down to a true smartphone form factor (and if you look closely, you can even see some hints of style in there). Just how rugged are we talking? Intermec says it'll survive multiple drops onto concrete from four feet onto all four corners, will stand up to dust and splashed liquids, and still manages to include a 2D barcode scanner so that you can perform your weekly inventory with flair. It'll be available in QWERTY and numeric keypad variants in the fourth quarter, but never mind the styling: can you carry Windows Mobile Handheld knowing full well all the cool kids will have Windows Phone 7 by then? Follow the break for Intermec's full press release.Continue reading Intermec CS40 walks the work / play tightrope, WinMo 6.5 threatens to knock it off
Intermec CS40 walks the work / play tightrope, WinMo 6.5 threatens to knock it off originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Sep 2010 15:31:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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HP says webOS tablets to be 'similar to the iPad'
HP's been saying it'll use webOS on a tablet since the first moment it bought Palm, but it looks like things are starting to pick up ahead of that "early 2011" due date -- in an email to the Palm Developer Community, HP's Peter Helm says webOS will be used on "tablet-style devices similar to the iPad." Check it:
Now that we are officially part of HP, we are going full speed ahead with our applications initiative. Our proprietary operating system, webOS, is now the OS that will be used in HP's mobile devices. This includes mobile handsets as well as tablet-style devices similar to the iPad. We will accordingly leverage Palm's ability to innovate and the scale of HP's vast install base and distribution network previously unavailable to us.
Yeah, that's pretty much the Rorschach test of seemingly-innocuous quotes; you can read it as anything from a meaningless passing reference to the market leader to an overt hint that we'll be looking at an ARM-based device with a 9-inch display and a lengthy battery life. The possibilities are endless -- let's just hope whatever Palm and HP are actually working on delivers on the enormous promise of the platform.

[Thanks, Pierre-Marc]
HP says webOS tablets to be 'similar to the iPad' originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Sep 2010 15:09:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Verizon Fivespot mobile hotspot launch materials hitting stores
Well well, what's this? We haven't heard much about the Verizon Fivespot global mobile hotspot since we saw it hit the FCC after first leaking out in July, but it certainly seems like it's about to get official -- we just got this shot of Verizon's "launch kit" for retail outlets. No word on when it'll actually hit, but it's bound to be soon -- and if Verizon sells this thing cheap with some of those new prepaid data plans it's going to be awfully hard to resist.

[Thanks, Wildkat]
Verizon Fivespot mobile hotspot launch materials hitting stores originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Sep 2010 14:50:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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VLC Media Player for iPad now available, your video codec worries decidedly lessen
36diggsdigg Well, would you look at that? Ever since Apple added some leeway (and snark!) to its App Store submission rules, the approved apps have become increasingly more interesting: Google Voice clients, a Commodore 64 emulator, and now the VLC Media Player with claims to support "nearly all codec there is." We've spent a few minutes with the program already, and while it's import method is reminiscent of CineXPlayer (i.e. via the Apps tab), the thumbnail-rich interface is much prettier. Official launch date is tomorrow, but we've had no problem downloading from the US and UK stores already, so go ahead and give it a whirl. Or if not, our gallery is below.
Gallery: VLC Media Player for iPad screenshots
VLC Media Player for iPad now available, your video codec worries decidedly lessen originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Sep 2010 14:06:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink Zath  |  sourceApplidium, iTunes  | Email this | Comments
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Nokia N8 delayed 'for a few weeks to do some final amends'
Sounds like it's not much of a delay -- but be that as it may, if you were hoping to pick up your colorful N8 in the tail end of this month... well, we don't quite know how to say this, but you're going to want to make other plans. Backing up rumors that have been going around the past couple days, locales that had expected to get the N8 in September have now been pushed back to October while Nokia makes "some final amends." On the upside, some rumors had the delay pegged for November, so this doesn't seem to be as bad as it could've been. For what it's worth, Nokia mentioned during Nokia World last week (and again today) that the N8 is seeing strong pre-order demand -- the strongest ever for a Nokia device, allegedly -- so this is likely to bum out a lot of folks, and for a few, it might even be just the impetus they needed to hold out for the upcoming E7. Here's the full statement:
"The amount of preorders has exceeded our expectations and we are working hard to deliver the Nokia N8 to the market. In some markets, we had planned to start delivering the Nokia N8s to our pre-order customers by the end of September. To ensure a great user experience, we have decided to hold the shipments for a few weeks to do some final amends. We're thrilled with the response that we've had to the Nokia N8 and assure everyone who've pre-ordered it already that it'll be worth the wait! We expect consumers to get their Nokia N8s during October."
Nokia N8 delayed 'for a few weeks to do some final amends' originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Sep 2010 13:44:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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BlackBerry Storm3 caught on camera?
Theoretically, we think this could just be a really well-executed Photoshop mashup, but considering how good RIM is at keeping industrial design elements consistent from device to device, we tend to believe this alleged shot of a BlackBerry Storm3 in the wild. Specs are said to include a 3.7-inch display -- up significantly from the Storm2's 3.2-inch example and better suited to take on 2010's top-tier touchphones -- along with 8GB of onboard storage. We'd also heard in the past that the Storm3 would be slated for BlackBerry 6, a 5 megapixel cam, and a late-2010 launch on Verizon, and the new rumor of integrated mobile hotspot functionality would corroborate that a bit since Big Red's really pushing that feature as a plan add-on these days. Torch owners, feeling any tinge of envy, or are you at peace with your decision?
BlackBerry Storm3 caught on camera? originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Sep 2010 13:39:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink IntoMobile  |  sourceBerryReview  | Email this | Comments
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