Thursday, December 1, 2011

IT News Head Lines (Engadget) 01/12/2011





Harvard-designed 'soft robot' shows you how low it can go (video)
It's the stuff of slow-moving robopocalyptic nightmares: a 'soft robot' designed by a team of Harvard scientists that draws inspiration from invertebrates like worms and starfish. The wired 'bot is made from a flexible elastomer material that allows it to squeeze into spaces that are inaccessible for more traditional robots. Inside are chambers that inflate and deflate, allowing the thing to undulate forward. Definitely check out the robot in action after the break.
Continue reading Harvard-designed 'soft robot' shows you how low it can go (video)
Harvard-designed 'soft robot' shows you how low it can go (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 30 Nov 2011 00:24:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink BBC  |  sourcePNAS (registration required)  | Email this | Comments

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HandyNES mod shrinks console, makes light gun look like light cannon
Vita schmita. This red mushroom-themed portable NES is the latest gaming tribute from modder LovableChevy, combining the original Entertainment System's innards with a 3.5-inch LCD screen, built-in controls and a rechargeable battery. The tinkerer has taken the time to include an AV out, headphone jack and an extra USB port for either a light gun or a second controller. However, the old tech involved takes its toll: the whole thing weighs in at around one pound (sans game) and offers up only three hours of play from a single charge. Think you can handle this portable heavyweight? Then check out the video after the break.
Continue reading HandyNES mod shrinks console, makes light gun look like light cannon
HandyNES mod shrinks console, makes light gun look like light cannon originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 23:41:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink Technabob  |  sourceBen Heck forums  | Email this | Comments

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Samsung wins a patent battle to sell Galaxy Tab 10.1 in Australia, war with Apple not over
The latest development in the patent skirmish between Samsung and Apple is a decision in Australia's Federal Court to overturn a ban on Galaxy Tab 10.1 sales that was placed in October. The Sunday Morning Herald reports local retailers are still unsure when they may be able to sell Samsung's slate, as Justice Lindsay Foster ruled the ban will remain until 4PM Friday, giving Apple time to appeal the case to the High Court first. Like its battle over the redesigned slate just introduced in Germany, this war between the electronics giants will continue on -- we'll let you know when there's another decision of consequence.
Permalink   |  sourceReuters, Wall Street Journal, Sunday Morning Herald  | Email this | Comments

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Nikon launches $550 Speedlight SB-910 flash: light-up controls and thermal cut-out protection
You know what $549.95 gets you in the camera world? About 90 percent of a T3i. Or, you know, a flash. Nikon has just outed the proper successor to the Speedlight SB-900, and at over half a grand, it best be packin' more than just bright lights. The Speedlight SB-910 touts an enhanced operating system and graphic user interface, and comes equipped with a wide zoom range as well as FX / DX-format identification that optimizes zoom settings based on the camera body. The company's also promising better battery life and a bolstered thermal cut-out function -- which offers protection against damage to the flash panel and body from overheating during continuous flash use -- not to mention an improved LCD and the ability to be used as an on-camera flash, wireless commander or remote. You'll get a trio of illumination patterns (standard, center-weighted and even), and it'll be shipping here in the US in just over a fortnight. Here's hoping it's not too late to add a last-minute crush to your wish list.
Gallery: Nikon Speedlight SB-910 camera flash
Continue reading Nikon launches $550 Speedlight SB-910 flash: light-up controls and thermal cut-out protection
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Siri lends a hand via your Bluetooth-enabled car stereo, reminds you to buy milk (video)
Sure, we've seen Siri used to do a host of things, including controlling the temperature in a hacker's home. But the folks over at Autoblog were curious to know just how well the virtual assistant would work with Bluetooth-enabled car stereos. Once your iPhone 4S is properly tethered, holding down the handset's home button will activate Siri. Treating her as an incoming call, your Notorious B.I.G. playlist will pause before the ready-for-command chime sounds. The in-car assistant was tested on two Mercedes-Benz automobiles, a Chrysler 300, a Dodge Charger and a Nissan Maxima, with the Maxima showcasing the best results. It comes as no surprise that mic placement on each stereo and in-cabin background noise provided a noticeable difference in Siri's listening abilities during the test. For a glimpse of the action before trying it out yourself, hit the video just past the break.
Continue reading Siri lends a hand via your Bluetooth-enabled car stereo, reminds you to buy milk (video)
Permalink   |  sourceAutoblog  | Email this | Comments

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SSTL designs cheap radar satellite, UK government kicks in ₤21 million to build it
While we have an innate fear of the eye in the sky (and the role it'll play in the coming robot apocalypse), there's no doubt that observation satellites do a lot of good -- from recording weather and climate changes to helping coordinate relief efforts in the wake of natural disasters. Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd. (SSTL) has plans to beef up planetary monitoring capabilities with its new NovaSAR satellite, and the company just received ₤21 million from the UK government to make it happen. NovaSAR works using synthetic aperture radar, so it can see through clouds (unlike optical satellites) and offers its services for ₤45 million -- or 20 percent of the cost of existing space radar platforms. With governmental funding in hand, SSTL can begin to develop and build its first such satellite, and the plan is to put it in orbit in two or three years. If NovaSAR does what it's been designed to do, SSTL hopes it can sell and launch enough of them so that any place on earth can be under its gaze in less than 24 hours. We're all for improving disaster relief efforts, but if you spy these sats overhead on a clear night, we recommend keeping an ear to the ground in case they're guiding an army of Alpha Dogs your way.
Continue reading SSTL designs cheap radar satellite, UK government kicks in ₤21 million to build it
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Lenovo LePad S2005 vs. Dell Streak 5... cuddle!


It's inevitable that these two 5-inch tabletphones -- the Dell Streak 5 on the left and the Lenovo LePad S2005 on the right -- are to meet in the Chinese capital. With the exception of the slightly taller body on the S2005 everything else are suspiciously similar, especially the button and camera layout. Well, there's a good explanation for this: we've been informed that this new tabletphone hails from the same ODM, Qisda, as Dell's counterpart. Too bad Lenovo decided to keep the same screen resolution though.



According to Stone Ip from Engadget Chinese, he found that the S2005 has a nicer grip than the Streak, and he also digs its more masculine appearance -- obviously this is open to debate. Performance-wise this slate responded well to our input, but the lack of promise on an Ice Cream Sandwich update will probably make potential geeky buyers think twice. Well, good thing we have some awesome modders around the interwebs these days.

Gallery: Lenovo LePad S2005 vs. Dell Streak 5... cuddle!
Lenovo LePad S2005 vs. Dell Streak 5... cuddle! originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 21:38:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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YouTube got nearly 21 billion hits in a month, mostly thanks to naughty Fenton
The latest report from comScore makes for eye popping reading -- Google's video sites, of which YouTube is the most important, received 20,933,113,000 views in October. To put that into some context, that's roughly three videos watched by every person alive on the planet. According to the statistics, YouTubers spent an average of seven hours watching the month's hottest videos (such as Community's Beetlejuice easter egg and Naughty Fenton). Surprisingly, Facebook came second, but viewers spent an measly average of 18 minutes watching last night's karaoke. In other news, Hulu came top for online advertising and Vevo was the most watched partner site, you guys obviously love your Lady Gaga.
YouTube got nearly 21 billion hits in a month, mostly thanks to naughty Fenton originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 21:19:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink Search Engine Land  |  sourcecomScore  | Email this | Comments

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Chanel counterfeiters beware: US federal court orders domain names seized and de-indexed
We're well versed in the art of the gadget KIRF 'round these parts, but counterfeiting's a problem faced by the fashion world, too. Chanel filed suit in federal court to stop hundreds of websites from selling KIRFs of its gear, and the judge recently ordered the seizure and transfer of those domain names to GoDaddy to hold in trust until the case is resolved. It was also decreed that they be stricken from the indices of search engines and social media -- including, but not limited to Bing, Google, Facebook, and Twitter. So it seems the federal courts have obtained the ability to order that legal remedy (the de-indexing) be given by companies not party to a lawsuit (Google, et al), though we know of no law granting it such powers. Of course, we can't know for sure until one of the accused copycat sites decides to lawyer up and fight back. Until then, fashion KIRFs beware: the feds can apparently wipe every trace of you from the internet.
Permalink Ars Technica  |  sourceCourt documents  | Email this | Comments

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Sony's latest Xperia update brings WebGL support to 2011 smartphone lineup (video)
Why Sony chose to sit on this one, we have no idea, but the company just revealed that its software update for the 2011 lineup of Xperia phones -- which was released last month -- also adds browser support for WebGL. This means that if you're holding an Xperia Arc, Mini, Neo, Play, Ray... or any other of its most recent handsets, then there's a good chance you're wielding one of the first Android phones to support this modern graphics platform. Designed to bring advanced visuals and gaming to the web, the API holds roots in JavaScript and has been used to develop everything from Angry Birds to far-out music videos. Sony Ericsson first previewed its WebGL efforts back in February, and after all these months, its official arrival is a welcome one, indeed. For a quick demo video, be sure to hop the break.
Continue reading Sony's latest Xperia update brings WebGL support to 2011 smartphone lineup (video)
Sony's latest Xperia update brings WebGL support to 2011 smartphone lineup (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 20:35:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink   |  sourceSony Ericsson  | Email this | Comments

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Lenovo LePhone S760 shows up with Android 2.3.5 and 3.7-inch AMOLED display
Alongside the LePhone S2 and the two-and-a-half tablets from earlier today, Lenovo also showed off a 3.7-inch Android 2.3.5 phone dubbed the S760. Packed within is a 1GHz processor, 512MB RAM, a vibrant AMOLED display, five megapixel camera and Lenovo's usual customised UI. Externally the phone looks very much like the S2, though the former's shiny plastic backside gives out more of a toy-like feel. No prices just yet but expect this to hit the Chinese market at the end of December.

Gallery: Lenovo LePhone S760 shows up with Android 2.3.5 and 3.7-inch AMOLED display
Lenovo LePhone S760 shows up with Android 2.3.5 and 3.7-inch AMOLED display originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 20:13:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Acer, Lenovo looking to release Tegra 3-equipped tablets in early 2012

For now ASUS' Transformer Prime is the lonely king of the quad-core tablet hill, but as we'd heard a few weeks back, it looks like it'll have company soon enough. Insider sources have reported to DigiTimes that you'll be able to snag a nifty Android tablet with a quad-core GPU for between $459 and $599 in 2012. Acer and Lenovo are apparently set to target Apple's iPad tablet as well as ASUS with NVIDIA's quad-core Tegra 3 GPU tablets running Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) in the first quarter of 2012. These sources also stated that since neither Acer nor Lenovo have a direct advantage over Apple or Amazon's tablet devices, they'd only be competing for about 10 to 15 percent of the total PC tablet market. And yes, there are mathematical formulas that prove that owning a reasonably priced tablet with a quad-core GPU does make you the coolest kid on the block.
Acer, Lenovo looking to release Tegra 3-equipped tablets in early 2012 originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 19:28:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink The Verge  |  sourceDigiTimes  | Email this | Comments

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Developer teases voice control of Zune, using PC and Windows Phone (video)
The great thinkers of the world have long known a secret that we're now happy to disclose: it's not necessity that's the mother invention, but rather laziness. Fortunately, expending a great deal of effort on a project -- simply to perform a task effortlessly -- sometimes brings very cool results. A concept app known as ZuneVoice easily passes muster in this realm, which is used to control Zune software on the PC with only a standard microphone and spoken commands. As you can see in the demo video, its creator, keyboardp, is able to play individual songs, issue commands such a "pause" or "next song", and even display full-screen music videos from YouTube. The developer even crafted an app for his Lumia 800 known as PhoneZune, which serves as a remote control for times when he's away from the box. Neither application is yet publicly available, though feedback is welcome. Next, we're told to expect Kinect integration. Perhaps one day, these gems will see the light of day.
Continue reading Developer teases voice control of Zune, using PC and Windows Phone (video)
Developer teases voice control of Zune, using PC and Windows Phone (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 19:06:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink The Verge, 1800PocketPC  |  sourcekeyboardp  | Email this | Comments

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Engadget HD Podcast 276 - 11.29.2011
Even with the holiday break, it's been a busy week and we've got plenty to discuss including some long-awaited events, like a new HD guide from Comcast, the DirecTiVo, and SlingPlayer for Boxee Box. That's not all however, since we're just a week away from Microsoft's latest assault on the living room with the new Xbox 360 dashboard, and with CES just over a month away rumors are heating up including news about Samsung and Google TV. We've also got our holiday shopping guide for 2011 to talk about, so check out that list and what we're watching over the next week and add in your suggestions in the comments below.



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Hosts: Ben Drawbaugh (@bjdraw), Richard Lawler (@rjcc)



Producer: Trent Wolbe



05:23 - Revamped Xbox 360 dashboard to launch on December 6th, Microsoft confirms

16:50 - Microsoft acquires VideoSurf, promises to bring better video search and discovery to Xbox Live

20:02 - Comcast shows off its new 'Barcelona' HD guide upgrade

25:07 - TiVo Q4 results bring first sub growth in years, DirecTiVo is imminent

30:32 - Samsung in 'last-stage talks' to use Google TV, will show off hardware after CES

32:46 - Blu-ray video encryption cracked using $260 kit

38:33 - SlingPlayer for Connected Devices is here, arrives first on Boxee Box

41:15 - Sky Sports dedicated F1 HD channel coming next season

44:10 - Engadget's holiday gift guide 2011: HDTV and home theater

54:00 - Must See HDTV (November 28th - December 4th)



Hear the podcast



LISTEN (MP3)

LISTEN (AAC)
Engadget HD Podcast 276 - 11.29.2011 originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 18:45:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Google continues its massive facelift, intros new persistent nav bar (video)
Google Bar
We hope you're enjoying that new Gmail and Reader interface, because Google isn't done repainting every nook and cranny just yet. The next bit to get a facelift is the Google Bar. The thin dark gray strip of text is going away, and in its place is a new persistent UI element that combines search and Google+ tools, including a share button and notifications. There's still quick access to other services available in the Google menu -- just hover over the logo and you'll be presented with a bunch more links. Love it? Hate it? Doesn't really matter... it's coming, so you might as well embrace it. Get a preview after the break.
Continue reading Google continues its massive facelift, intros new persistent nav bar (video)
Google continues its massive facelift, intros new persistent nav bar (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 18:24:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink   |  sourceOfficial Google Blog  | Email this | Comments

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Crapgadget: 'you really shouldn't have' edition
Looking for a great gift for someone you love? Look no further than our extensive Holiday Gift Guides. Looking for a gift for someone for whom you harbor a strong sense of indifference or vague dislike? We've got your back with this installment of Crapgadget, featuring a security-enabled fanny pack, some suction cup speakers and a bedazzled bird.



Read - Here's one way to assure that your iPhone 4 never gets stolen: dress it up like an awful looking camera.

Read - USB speakers with suction cups on the back? Perhaps it's time to instate suckgadget.

Read - You'll never fly high with bedazzled wings. Yep, we featured a similar bird speaker before, but we figured this ornamentation deserved a second go 'round.

Read - It seems to us that wearing a fanny pack is its own built-in security system, but if you're still concerned about people nabbing something from your midsection, the Waist Pack with Built-in Personal Security Alarm can help.

Read- No need to chalk up your palms before the next round of PS3 gaming.

View Poll
Crapgadget: 'you really shouldn't have' edition originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 18:01:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Vuzix Tac-Eye LT offers a clip on HUD for rugged, wannabe cyborgs
Vuzix Tac-Eye LT
Does a pair of screens placed over your eyes seem like overkill? Well, AR enthusiasts, Vuzix has heard your calls and has introduced the Tac-Eye LT -- a transparent monocular AMOLED display that only puts info in front of one of your peepers. Unlike some of the company's other head-mounted displays, the Tac-Eye isn't aimed at personal entertainment. Instead, Vuzix envisions it being used as a HUD in rugged environments, offering alerts, data and video feeds. The unit comes mounted on a pair of Oakley specs (of course) but it can easily be clipped to a pair of standard safety glasses. The 800 x 600 see-through display comes in three different configurations: VGA-in, video-in or both. The Tac-Eye LT is available throughout Europe now... at least according to the PR. We couldn't find them for sale anywhere, nor could we track down pricing info. Head on after the break for the full release and a few more technical details.
Continue reading Vuzix Tac-Eye LT offers a clip on HUD for rugged, wannabe cyborgs
Vuzix Tac-Eye LT offers a clip on HUD for rugged, wannabe cyborgs originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 17:50:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Apple puts Galaxy Tab 10.1N on the chopping block, asks German court for preliminary injunction
It wasn't long ago that Samsung modified its Galaxy Tab 10.1 to get it back on the German market, and it didn't take long for Apple to respond. Apparently, Cupertino didn't take kindly to Sammy's sneaky workaround, and has filed for an injunction to stop the 10.1N from showing up on store shelves in Germany. The slate's fate will be determined on December 22nd, so we'll have to wait and see whether it joins its siblings on the sidelines, or is around to deliver some Honeycomb delights to those in Deutschland come Christmas morn.
Permalink FOSS Patents  |  sourceDow Jones Newswire  | Email this | Comments

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Time Warner Cable's tablet app available for Android, live TV streaming still iPad only
As promised, a Honeycomb compatible version of Time Warner Cable's tablet app has arrived before the return of the NBA. Dubbed TWC TV in its Android iteration, v1.0 includes an integrated guide, the ability to act as a remote control, search TV listings, and schedule DVR recordings. So far it's only promised to operate on the Galaxy Tab 10.1 and Xoom tablets, but the notes indicate it should scale to whatever Honeycomb slate you happen to have handy at the moment. The marquee live TV streaming feature is still on hold waiting for the release of Ice Cream Sandwich, but if what you need is a couch companion instead of a kitchen / bathroom TV screen it's ready to go. Check out the Time Warner blog for more notes or just hit the Android Market link below to download it yourself.
Continue reading Time Warner Cable's tablet app available for Android, live TV streaming still iPad only
Permalink   |  sourceAndroid Market, TWCable Untangled  | Email this | Comments

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Kindle Fire gets first taste of CM7, needs work on its hand-eye coordination
CM7 on Kindle Fire
Well, with source code and root firmly in hand, it was only a matter of time before someone got a custom ROM up and running on the Fire. Of course, the first contestant for your hacked Kindle dollar is the reliable, and damn-near ubiquitous CM7. XDA Developers Forum member JackpotClavin posted a pair of images showing the Gingerbread-based ROM booted up on his 7-inch Amazon tablet. He isn't offering the code for download yet, primarily because there are still a host of bugs to work out -- including a severely mixed up touch panel thats about 90-degrees out of sync with actual display. On the plus side, it does appear that WiFi is working. We suppose if you're impatient you can join the frothing masses begging Clavin to release the code, but we'll be waiting for something a little more polished before risking our shiny new slate. One more pic after the break.



[Thanks, Matthias]
Continue reading Kindle Fire gets first taste of CM7, needs work on its hand-eye coordination
Kindle Fire gets first taste of CM7, needs work on its hand-eye coordination originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 17:14:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink   |  sourceXDA Developers Forum  | Email this | Comments

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Charles Walton, father of RFID technology, dies at 89
We have some somber news to bring you today: Charles Walton, the man who pioneered the rise of RFID technology, has died at the age of 89. The Cornell-educated entrepreneur garnered more than 50 patents over the course of his career, but it only took one to cement his legacy -- a 1973 patent for a "Portable radio frequency emitting identifier." It may not have been the first RFID-related invention, but Walton's breakthrough would prove to be foundational, spawning many similar patents, including ten from the creator himself. It all began at the Army Signal Corps, where Walton worked after studying electrical engineering at Cornell and earning a Master's degrees in electrical engineering and economics of engineering from the Stevens Institute of Technology. In 1960, he accepted a position at IBM, where he conducted research on disc drives before founding his own company, Proximity Devices, in 1970.



It was at Proximity where many of Walton's patents came to life, including his initial design, which he developed alongside the Schlage lock company and eventually licensed to other firms, as well. He would go on to earn millions from his technology, though as Venture Beat points out, he may have been a bit too far ahead of the curve. Many of Walton's patents expired by the time RFID devices caught on with big spenders like the Department of Defense and Wal-Mart, thereby excluding him from any subsequent windfall. But that didn't seem to bother him too much, as evidenced in a 2004 interview with Venture Beat: "I feel good about it and gratified I could make a contribution."
Charles Walton, father of RFID technology, dies at 89 originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 16:49:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink Computer World  |  sourceVentureBeat  | Email this | Comments

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FCC accepts AT&T's request for withdrawal, plans to release report on its findings today (update: it's out!)
In a conference call to press this afternoon, the FCC announced that it will grant AT&T's request to formally withdraw its application to acquire T-Mobile US. In addition, the agency will also release a 109-page report today that discusses what it found over nine months of reviewing the merger. In short, the FCC found that the cons of the deal outweighed the pros, and AT&T is likely to build out its LTE network regardless of what happens with the carrier's buyout of T-Mobile. The report determined that the merger would create too many network inefficiencies and job losses, and whatever cost savings that would be generated by the deal wouldn't be passed on to the customer.



While the FCC won't pursue the draft order signed by Chairman Julius Genachowski mandating the merger be brought before a Federal judge, AT&T isn't completely done. It's become a great deal harder -- its dealings with the Department of Justice are still looming, and in the meantime Reuters is reporting that the carrier's in talks with Leap Wireless to sell some of T-Mobile's assets -- mainly as a last-ditch effort to still gain the support of both governmental agencies. So this saga is far from over, but opponents of the merger can still sigh a breath of relief. Follow the break for AT&T and Sprint's official responses to today's decision.



Update: The report is now available! Head here to read all 109 pages of it.
Continue reading FCC accepts AT&T's request for withdrawal, plans to release report on its findings today (update: it's out!)
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Lenovo trudging into the smart TV arena, plans LeTV launch in Q1 2012
A Chinese company throwing French around in its product names. Right. Oddities aside, it looks as if the LePhone will soon have LeCompany -- Lenovo will be pushing out its first smart TV in the first quarter of 2012. The simply-titled LeTV will be an internet-connected display, but outside of that, hardly anything else is being made public. There are no launch regions specified, nor a screen size. We're presuming it'll attempt to tie into the greater "Lenovo Cloud," which will purportedly be similar to services already offered by the likes of Apple and Google, though users will be granted access to 200GB at first. Can't imagine too many folks opting for a Lenovo desktop, laptop, smartphone and television, but hey -- ecosystems are indeed all the rage these days.
Lenovo trudging into the smart TV arena, plans LeTV launch in Q1 2012 originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 16:26:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink   |  sourceThe Wall Street Journal  | Email this | Comments

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Qbo robot looks in a mirror, learns who he is (video)
A robot equipped with stereoscopic vision and some object and facial recognition programs opens up a whole number of different possibilities, but few quite as interesting as what happens when you place said robot in front of a mirror. It took a bit of guidance (and no doubt a bit of prep), but the open source Qbo robot was quickly able to both recognize and learn to identify himself when he was recently placed in just such a situation. See what happened after the break.
Continue reading Qbo robot looks in a mirror, learns who he is (video)
Qbo robot looks in a mirror, learns who he is (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 16:17:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink   |  sourceQboRobot (YouTube)  | Email this | Comments

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Malls halt cellphone-tracking experiment after complaint from Senator Schumer
As you may have heard last week, two US malls (the Promenade Temecula in Southern California and Short Pump Town Center in Richmond, Virginia) decided to conduct a little experiment this holiday shopping season, in which they employed some cellphone-tracking technology in an effort to learn more about individuals' shopping patterns. That technology came from a company called Path Intelligence, which has previously outfitted UK malls with the system, and assures folks that it only detects cellphone signals, not phone numbers or other personal data.



Those assurances apparently weren't enough for US Senator Chuck Schumer, however, who sent letters to both the FTC and the CEO of Path Intelligence, complaining that the tracking was "simply unreasonable," and that a "shopper should not have to choose between the ability to be in touch with friends and family in case of emergency and safeguarding her privacy." While it's unclear if it's in direct response to the Senator's letter, the company that owns both malls has reportedly shut down the tracking systems after only a day of use, although it isn't commenting publicly on the matter just yet. You can find Senator Schumer's full statement at the source link below.
Malls halt cellphone-tracking experiment after complaint from Senator Schumer originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 16:03:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink CBC  |  sourceSenator Charles Schumer  | Email this | Comments

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PlayStation Vita won't play grandpa's games -- for now
While Sony confirmed that the PS Vita will be able to dive into the PSP's back-catalog from launch, it looks like it'll miss out on anything pre-millennium. An updated page from the PS Vita's Japanese site has backed up rumors that PSOne Classics and other "archive games" won't be available when the quad-core console arrives in Asian stores next month. However, it's not all bad news for anyone hoping to relive those jaggy-edged gaming triumphs of the late 90's -- the official response adds that plans for older titles will be announced in due course.
PlayStation Vita won't play grandpa's games -- for now originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 15:59:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink Joystiq  |  sourcePlayStation Japan (translated)  | Email this | Comments

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Jailbroken iOS 5 devices get Siri0us, tap into Nuance's dictation servers (video) (update)
Sure, it's leaps and bounds away from all the parlor tricks that Siri is able to perform, but now, jailbroken iPhone 4, iPhone 3GS and iPod Touch devices -- that have been upgraded to iOS 5 -- may access the dictation portion of Siri's prowess. Thanks to Siri0us, the free app available through Cydia, users will gain the option to speak messages and search queries rather than type them, which could be a huge time saver -- unless there's a series of mistakes, anyway. Rather than accessing Apple's own system, the app works by tapping into Nuance's Dragon Go servers for speech recognition. Rather subversive, don't you think? If you'd like to get in on the fun (before Nuance breaks up the party), just check the video following the break.



Update: Well, who didn't see this one coming? Nuance has pulled the rug out from under Siri0us, and the app has been yanked from Cydia while the developer searches for another speech recognition server. Happy hunting, dude.
Continue reading Jailbroken iOS 5 devices get Siri0us, tap into Nuance's dictation servers (video) (update)
Permalink The Verge, 9to5 Mac  |  sourceiF0rce, iDownloadBlog, (2)  | Email this | Comments

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Apple and Google just say no to ESRB mobile app ratings
You're familiar with the Entertainment Software Ratings Board (ESRB), right? They're the lot who help moms and dads ensure that their kiddies only get their grubby mitts on age-appropriate content. Recently, the ESRB's reach extended into the mobile space, but it turns out that Apple and Google aren't down with the ESRB's handy dandy ratings system. Despite being invited to the party, the two tech behemoths with matching app purchasing portals are quite content with their existing controls, thank you very much. Of course, the fact that the ESRB relies on developers to complete a detailed questionnaire instead of reviewing every app itself (not unlike existing Android Market and App Store protocols) might have something to do with Cupertino and Mountain View's reluctance to jump on the bandwagon. Looks like parents wanting to keep their kid's devices free from inappropriate content will have to remain vigilant without the ESRB's help.
Apple and Google just say no to ESRB mobile app ratings originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 15:24:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink   |  sourceGiga OM  | Email this | Comments

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Amtrak begins testing e-ticketing system, other futuristic things
It's been a long time coming, but it looks like Amtrak is finally ready to get with the times. This month, the human-carrier began testing a new e-ticketing system for passengers traveling along its Downeaster line, which extends from Maine to Boston. Under the trial, travelers can either print their tickets at home, or have them e-mailed as a barcode-laced PDF file for conductors to scan. Customers can also change their reservations at the last minute, without having to wait in line at the ticket counter and interact with other people. It's not exactly cutting-edge technology, but Amtrak attributes the delay to the unique nature of the railway, where conductors check tickets in transit and have to deal with a steady stream of passengers getting on and hopping off. As a result, the company had to find a scanning device reliable enough to handle this constant flow of organisms, though it looks as if it's nearing a solution. Amtrak plans to expand the trial to California in February, and if that goes well, the system could roll out on a nationwide basis as early as this summer.
Amtrak begins testing e-ticketing system, other futuristic things originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 14:59:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink   |  sourceUSA Today  | Email this | Comments

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Motorola Xoom 2 unboxing and first impressions (video)
What's this oddly curved box we see before us? Ah, yes, it's Motorola's (joint) second attempt at the Android tablet game. The Xoom 2 is another 10.1-inch widescreen Honeycomb offering, looking to make up for the lost opportunities of its predecessor -- slimmer, faster and certainly packing more vertices. While we put it through its paces, we thought you'd appreciated some close-up shots with what appears to be the final retail model. First impressions? Those corners certainly do help keep it in our hands, and performance seemed suitably speedy. It's worth noting that -- at least on first impressions -- Motorola hasn't tampered excessively with the Honeycomb, something we weren't too happy about on Moto's Droid RAZR. We also suspect that splash-proof nanotech coating could also be acting as fingerprint magnet. Delve into the secrets of the fitted retail box, some tablet comparisons and a touching reunion with its smartphone sibling in our gallery below, or catch a brief video tour after the break.

Gallery: Motorola Xoom 2 unboxing
Continue reading Motorola Xoom 2 unboxing and first impressions (video)
Motorola Xoom 2 unboxing and first impressions (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 14:37:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Samsung Galaxy Nexus torn down, Ice Cream Sandwich gets everywhere
What sorts of mysteries does the Samsung Galaxy Nexus hold? Only the folks at iFixit and their trusty screwdrivers know for sure. Thankfully, the site is willing to share. Check out a teardown of one of the year's most eagerly anticipated smartphones. Thrill to the 1.2GHz dual-core processor, marvel to the five megapixel rear-facing camera and be astonished by the NFC antenna in the source link below.
Samsung Galaxy Nexus torn down, Ice Cream Sandwich gets everywhere originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 14:32:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink The Verge  |  sourceiFixit  | Email this | Comments

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Nielsen's Q3 numbers are out: Android's still atop the OS chain, Apple remains number one manufacturer
Another quarter has come and gone, and you know what that means: Nielsen ratings are out again. The latest batch of numbers don't reveal anything wildly new, but they're still just as telling nonetheless: 44 percent of mobile subscribers in the US use a smartphone in the US. Of those, 71 percent are in possession of an Android device or an iPhone. Additionally, 56 percent of all phone purchases during the third quarter were smartphones. And -- this probably won't come as a surprise to anyone -- at a decisive 42 percent, Android remains the number one smartphone OS while Apple is still perched firmly on top as the leading manufacturer (28 percent). Check out the source link below and graph above for more of the tiny details.
Continue reading Nielsen's Q3 numbers are out: Android's still atop the OS chain, Apple remains number one manufacturer
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Facebook, FTC reach settlement, Zuckerberg confesses 'a bunch of mistakes'
Facebook and the Federal Trade Commission have reached a settlement over consumer deception charges dating back to 2009. The commission claimed that the social networking giant made public information it promised to keep private, thanks to changes in site terms. According to the terms of the deal, user feedback will be required before the site makes changes to policies for sharing data. Mark Zuckerberg addressed his company's on-going privacy issues, admitting to "a bunch of mistakes," adding,

In particular, I think that a small number of high profile mistakes, like Beacon four years ago and poor execution as we transitioned our privacy model two years ago, have often overshadowed much of the good work we've done.
Zuckerberg assured users that Facebook is making a "clear and formal long-term commitment" to privacy tools.
Facebook, FTC reach settlement, Zuckerberg confesses 'a bunch of mistakes' originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 13:58:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink   |  sourceThe New York Times, Facebook Blog  | Email this | Comments

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Microsoft enables Android and iOS users to experience Windows Phone 7... via the web
Still tempted by the fruit of another? If you're looking Microsoft's way, but aren't quite ready to toss your adoration for iOS or Android aside, the coders in Redmond are giving you an alternative to quitting cold turkey. By visiting http://aka.ms/wpdemo on one's iOS or Android browser, you'll be immediately tunneled into a emulation of Windows Phone 7. We gave it a test run here at Engadget HQ, and it seems that every tile and swipe save for Apps runs properly. Can't say the fonts and such looked as smooth on our Galaxy S II as they do on the Radar, but it's a solid effort that'll definitely serve you well if you're considering the switch. Just don't try to flip the demo horizontally -- that's clearly a no-no.
Gallery: Windows Phone 7 emulator within Android 2.3's web browser
Permalink Windows Phone Thoughts, Windows Phone (Twitter)  |  sourceMicrosoft  | Email this | Comments

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Gogo goes global: partnership with Inmarsat to give you the internet on international flights
Ahh, Gogo, what a fantastic addition you've been to domestic airline travel. Besides keeping rowdy kids entertained with internet access, it affords well-traveled tech bloggers the ability to do what we do at 30,000 feet. And now, Gogo's wondrous WiFi will do the same for international passengers thanks to Inmarsat's Global Xpress satellite internet service. The partnership adds speedy Ka-band satellite technology to Gogo's existing air-to-ground service starting in 2013. After launching the Inmarsat-5 satellite in midyear, up to 50Mb/s speeds will be at your flying fingertips in some (currently undefined) regions, with worldwide coverage coming in 2014. Full details of your inflight future await in the PR after the break.
Continue reading Gogo goes global: partnership with Inmarsat to give you the internet on international flights
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BlackBerry PlayBook gets root thanks to childishly named DingleBerry tool
DingleBerry
It's been a long time coming, but the PlayBook has finally been rooted. Devs neuralic, xpvqs and Chris Wade have been hard at work and have finally discovered a persistently exploitable hole that enables unfettered root access to the PlayBook. The culmination of their efforts, DingleBerry, hasn't been released just yet, but it should be hitting the series of tubes in the not too distant future. Obviously having super user access opens a world of posibilities to developers, but there are some immediate advantages too. For one, with DingleBerry the creators were able to re-enable web access to Hulu -- not only bypassing the lack of an app, but skipping the usual requirement of a Plus account for mobile consumption. Head on after the break to see the hack in action.
Continue reading BlackBerry PlayBook gets root thanks to childishly named DingleBerry tool
BlackBerry PlayBook gets root thanks to childishly named DingleBerry tool originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 13:05:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink   |  sourceCrackBerry  | Email this | Comments

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Google Maps 6.0 hits Android, adds indoor navigation for retail and transit
Google's already put its stamp on the great outdoors, what with its Street View fleet chronicling the well-trodden ways of our world for Maps. Which is precisely why Mountain View's turning its attention inward for that next, great navigation innovation, as it attempts to chart a course through the wilds of indoor spaces. Hitting the Android Market in the U.S. and Japan today, the company's ever-popular app gets a full version bump to 6.0, bringing with it the inclusion of retail and airport floor plans.



The newly added indoor maps don't quite offer the turn-by-turn navigation you've come to know and depend upon (that's outside-only for now), but the provided layouts should help usher you along to the nearest bathroom, clothing shop or elevator. There's no fancy equipment at use, either. All of your positioning information is culled from the same set of data (including GPS) used for "My Location," although here it's been optimized to detect movement along the z-axis. What does that mean for you, dear end user? Try a nifty feature called "Automatic Floor Detection" that'll keep track of your progress as you move about from escalator to escalator. Google's also endeavoring to extend its indoor reach, opening up its mapping inventory with a self-service tool (currently in beta) that'll allow business owners to upload floor plans directly to Maps.



If you're itching to test the tech out, you'll want to find yourself at one of the dozen-plus airport partners scattered across the country, in addition to transit hubs and major retail outlets both stateside and in Japan. Familiar commercial forces like Macy's and Takashimaya have opted-in to the indoor location service, but your best bet's going to be IKEA -- which has agreed to roll the feature out to all of its stores nationwide. So, whether you're rocking Android 2.1 or the forward-facing 4.0, prepare to let your Googlefied smartphone almost always be your guide. Follow past the break for additional shots and a video demo of the indoor geo-location in action.
Continue reading Google Maps 6.0 hits Android, adds indoor navigation for retail and transit
Google Maps 6.0 hits Android, adds indoor navigation for retail and transit originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 12:37:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink   |  sourceOfficial Google Blog, Android Market  | Email this | Comments

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Motorola MotoActv coming to the UK to motivate armchair marathon runners
We feel strongly about exercise -- the only time you ever need to run is to escape from violence or, you know, Black Friday mobs. Others think it's an acceptable recreational activity, and it's these people who will be excited that the Motorola Motoactv's arriving in the UK. It's packing the same features we showed you before, including GPS tracking, 4,000 song capacity and being able to connect calls on your compatible Moto phone. It's an exclusive at specialist retailer Sweatshop for £250 and will be hitting shelves on December 1st. Just don't make us go in there, we might fall faint from thinking about all the exertion.
Continue reading Motorola MotoActv coming to the UK to motivate armchair marathon runners
Motorola MotoActv coming to the UK to motivate armchair marathon runners originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 12:25:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink   |  sourceMotorola  | Email this | Comments

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Engadget's holiday gift guide 2011: HDTV and home theater
Welcome to the Engadget Holiday Gift Guide! We're well aware of the heartbreaking difficulties surrounding the seasonal shopping experience, so we're here to help you sort out this year's tech treasures. Below is today's bevy of curated picks, and you can head back to the Gift Guide hub to see the rest of the product guides as they're added throughout the holiday season.

For a crowd-pleasing holiday gift, it's hard to do better than a TV (or something that plays on or plugs into a TV), so naturally we're here to help you out once again. Of course, this is an ever-changing industry segment, but we've got you covered -- regardless of whether you need a flat panel or a projector. If you're out shopping for someone that has (or wants to) cut the cable, or someone that has every channel, there's something for you. Of course, we'd also recommend keeping a close eye on the tablet and gaming categories too, but companies like Roku, Samsung and Ceton are making sure you have all kinds of options dedicated purely to video. Give them a look after the break.
Continue reading Engadget's holiday gift guide 2011: HDTV and home theater
Engadget's holiday gift guide 2011: HDTV and home theater originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Verizon details live FiOS TV service for Xbox 360, Kinect controls on tap
Microsoft announced back in October that it would be bringing live FiOS TV channels to the Xbox 360 (along with some offerings from Comcast), and Verizon has now finally filled in most of the specifics. As expected, you'll need both FiOS TV and internet, plus an Xbox Live Gold membership to access the "select" live channels (up to 26 depending on your TV package), but Verizon is making a special offer available to coincide with the launch. You can get its FiOS Triple Play package including FiOS internet, TV and phone, plus a year of Xbox Live Gold for $89.99 a month if you sign up before January 21st, and Verizon will also throw in the new anniversary edition of Halo. What's more, Verizon has also confirmed that the new service will make use of Kinect voice and gesture controls, and it's accepting orders for the new bundle package right now -- the service itself will be available next month.
Continue reading Verizon details live FiOS TV service for Xbox 360, Kinect controls on tap
Verizon details live FiOS TV service for Xbox 360, Kinect controls on tap originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 11:35:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink   |  sourceVerizon  | Email this | Comments

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Available Tags:Galaxy Tab , Samsung , Galaxy , Apple , Nikon , via , UK , Lenovo , Dell , YouTube , smartphone , Android , Windows Phone , Windows , Engadget , Google , Galaxy Tab , tablet , TV , iPad , Kindle , TV , iOS , other , Motorola , Xoom , Windows Phone , Microsoft , iOS , BlackBerry , Motorola , TV , Xbox , Kinect ,
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