Thursday, February 2, 2012

IT News Head Lines (Engadget) 2/2/2012





KDDI's INFOBAR C01 coming soon: ten keys and very Japanese (video)
Many Japanese thumbs still love that classic ten-button keypad, so they should feel right at home on the newest model in KDDI's designer INFOBAR range. The 3.2-inch, 854 x 480 touchscreen shows off the same tile-based custom UI as last year's A01, once again running on top of Gingerbread and a single-core 1.4GHz Qualcomm MSM8655 processor. The rear camera captures eight megapixel stills and HD video, while dual-mode GSM / CDMA connectivity makes it worth taking abroad -- if only so foreigners can remark on its checkerboard aesthetics (available in three different color schemes) and 1Seg TV tuner. Just make sure you're still in Japan on February 3rd, or you'll miss the release. Click onwards for a video tour.
Continue reading KDDI's INFOBAR C01 coming soon: ten keys and very Japanese (video)
KDDI's INFOBAR C01 coming soon: ten keys and very Japanese (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 01 Feb 2012 02:05:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink The Verge, Keitai Watch  |  sourceKDDI  | Email this | Comments

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LG finally shows a profit from cellphones, record high flat-panel shipments in Q4 earnings
LG has revealed its earnings statements for the fourth quarter of 2011 and the full year, and it managed to notch an operating profit of 23 billion won ($20.5 million), boosted by a 10 billion won operating profit in its handset division. That was despite lower sales compared to the previous quarter (17.7 million compared to 21.1 million), with higher sales of its new Optimus LTE and lower sales of less profitable dumbphones. It also had solid results in TVs with an operating profit of 150 billion won and record shipments of 8.8 million units, thanks to demand for its higher end models over the holidays. Check out the slides in the PDF linked below for notes on how LG plans to dominate 2012 with more LTE, 3D and air conditioners, although we'd just recommend moving to Level 5 of the Kobe System.
Continue reading LG finally shows a profit from cellphones, record high flat-panel shipments in Q4 earnings
Permalink   |  sourceLG 4Q 2011 performance results (PDF)  | Email this | Comments

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Xbox 360 adds Crackle and CinemaNow to list of up and running apps
You can't deny one of Microsoft's main goals with its revamped 360 dashboard update was to enhance the box's entertainment attributes, and now the Redmond crowd has flipped the live switch on two more vid-focused apps. Crackle and CinemaNow are joining the likes of Vudu and UFC as part of the latest additions to the Xbox app locker. Both apps are available now for those of us in the States, and while CinemaNow won't be heading elsewhere, Sony's Crackle is hitting three other markets: Australia, Canada and United Kingdom. There's no more info on when -- or if -- both apps will make way into more countries, but Microsoft did say that it'll "continue to enhance and expand" its Xbox Live offerings. We know you're eager to check out some Godzilla collections, so power on that console, head to the apps section and let the crackles set you free.
Xbox 360 adds Crackle and CinemaNow to list of up and running apps originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 01 Feb 2012 00:29:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink   |  sourceMajor Nelson (Twitter)  | Email this | Comments

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Disney Mobile on DoCoMo brand launches with two new Android phones in Japan
It appears Disney's mobile efforts in Japan are going pretty well, and with the help of carrier NTT DoCoMo they're expanding under the joint "Disney Mobile on DoCoMo" brand name. The partnership is kicking off with two new Android-powered handsets launching over the next couple of months that pack in access to exclusive content from Disney like full-length animations, games, wallpapers and more. First up is the F-08D (left), a "luxury smartphone" that features silhouettes of Mickey and Minnie Mouse, a 4.3-inch HD (720x1280) LCD display, dual cameras and 1.2Ghz dual-core OMAP4430 CPU available in pink or white next month with preorders opening up February 17th. Next up is the P-05D (right), which has a slim 7.8mm thick frame, rear camera and 4.3-inch 540x960 res OLED screen all powered by a dual-core 1Ghz CPU that will launch at some point in March. Check out the press releases after the break for a few more details on each of these Japan-only cellphones, or hit the source link for even more specs -- no word yet on pricetags or which version of Android these will end up launching with.
Continue reading Disney Mobile on DoCoMo brand launches with two new Android phones in Japan
Disney Mobile on DoCoMo brand launches with two new Android phones in Japan originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 23:47:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink   |  sourceSpecs (PDF), Disney Mobile services (PDF)  | Email this | Comments

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Nikon outs new Coolpix trio: L810 with 26x zoom, waterproof S30 and Intelligent Auto L26
Point-and-shoot refreshes may not get you all hot and bothered like some new, networked DSLRs might, but Nikon's doing its best to reinvigorate the category. Announced today, the new line of Coolpix digital cameras crams an assortment of dedicated features -- Intelligent Auto, ultra-zoom and ruggedization -- into a spread of budget-friendly, 720p HD-capable offerings. The leader of this updated bunch, the L810, combines a 26x (22.5mm-585mm) lens, 19 exposure settings and a 3-inch LCD screen with VR image stabilization for users who want to get up close and personal without compromising detail. While the bar-lowering L26 makes the art of imaging a bit simpler and removes that pesky need for photographic know-how, capturing pictures using a 5x Zoom-NIKKOR lens in tandem with its array of automatically-selected scene modes. And for the accident prone amongst you amateur Ansel Adamses, the company's S30 packs a 10.1MP sensor and 3x wide angle lens into a drop-resistant, waterproof shell. These three digital imaging amigos are available starting this February in an assortment of colors, with the L810 retailing for $280 and its category siblings pegged for $120 each. Head on past the break to peruse the official presser and get the lowdown on the extended feature set.
Gallery: Nikon Coolpix L810, L26 and S30
Continue reading Nikon outs new Coolpix trio: L810 with 26x zoom, waterproof S30 and Intelligent Auto L26
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Nikon adds Coolpix S9300, S6300, S4300 and S3300 to point-and-shoot lineup
It's not been all that long since Nikon last augmented its Coolpix S-series, and now the camera maker's at it again, adding another four to the point-and-shoot range. Starting at the bottom end is the S3300, which definitely keeps things simple: 16 megapixels, 6x zoom, 19 picture modes and 720p is what you'll get for the $140 asking price. An extra $30 lands you the S4300, which adds touchscreen control. Stepping up the ladder, we have the S6300 at $200, which includes a 16 megapixel CMOS sensor, 10x zoom and an Easy Panorama mode for those 180- and 360-degree vistas. Video also jumps up a notch to a full 1080p. Assuming a $350 price tag doesn't seem too lofty, you might like the S9300 -- it has the same 16 megapixel CMOS sensor as the S6300, but also throws in GPS for geotagging, and a generous 18x zoom, giving it a 25-450mm range. There's a limited range of colors for each model, and availability is pegged for February, but hit the PR after the break if you want the full rundown.
Gallery: Nikon Coolpix S9300, S6300, S4300 and S3300
Continue reading Nikon adds Coolpix S9300, S6300, S4300 and S3300 to point-and-shoot lineup
Nikon adds Coolpix S9300, S6300, S4300 and S3300 to point-and-shoot lineup originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 23:01:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Nikon unveils Coolpix P510 42x superzoom, P310 with f/1.8 lens
This evening's Nikon post is presented in partnership with the letter P. The Coolpix P-series welcomed a new pair today, with point-and-shoots that "pack a potent punch... and powerful performance" -- and a plentiful portion of P, as you'll notice in the press release past the break. The Coolpix P510 "breaks the zoom barrier" with a 42x 24-1000mm optically stabilized lens. It features a 16.1 megapixel BSI (backside illuminated) CMOS sensor, a 921k-dot 3-inch vari-angle LCD, can shoot 1080p HD video with stereo sound and supports ISO 100-3200 shooting with Hi1 (ISO 6400) and Hi2 (ISO 12800, monochrome) options. GPS functionality is also included, with support for tracking and photo geotagging.

Those of you seeking a more-pocketable P-series may want to consider the Coolpix P310, which offers the same 16.1 megapixel BSI CMOS sensor, a 921k-pixel 3-inch LCD, a native sensitivity range of ISO 100-3200 (Hi1 of ISO 6400) and a 4.2x 24-100mm f/1.8 (maximum) optically stabilized zoom lens. As Nikon's high-end pocketable model, the P310 offers advanced exposure modes, including program, shutter- and aperture-priority, along with a full manual mode. There's also 1080/30p video capture with stereo sound and in-camera editing. Both cameras will be available in February, with the Coolpix P510 shipping in black and red for $430 and the black-only P310 running you $330. Oh, and don't forget about that plenary P-PR past the break.
Continue reading Nikon unveils Coolpix P510 42x superzoom, P310 with f/1.8 lens
Nikon unveils Coolpix P510 42x superzoom, P310 with f/1.8 lens originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 23:01:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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FCC revamps Lifeline phone service, cuts the fat from carriers' bottomlines
With a site redesign freshly under its belt, the FCC's setting its recently honed eye for modernization on other, more pertinent areas of its jurisdiction -- like Lifeline. The universal program, a means of guaranteeing affordable phone service to low-income families, hadn't exactly kept pace with changes in the telecom industry, overlooking consumers' preference for wireless and the growing need for pervasive broadband access. That's all set to change with new measures adopted by the Commission today designed to curb carrier abuse of the antiquated system and automate the enrollment process by eliminating unnecessary duplicate accounts and subsidies. A pilot program to offer and potentially bundle discounted, high-speed internet to eligible participants is also underway, with potential ISP partners currently being solicited for inclusion. All told, the moves could wind up saving the federal agency over $2 billion in misdirected funds over a three-year span, leaving more money on the table to help your average Joe and Jane America step firmly into the 21st century.
FCC revamps Lifeline phone service, cuts the fat from carriers' bottomlines originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 22:06:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink   |  sourceFCC  | Email this | Comments

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Megaupload users' data to be kept another two weeks, EFF to help folks retrieve it
Megaupload's digital doors may have been closed due to the presence of pirated materials, but there's still the matter of all that legal content residing on its servers. Naturally, folks want their files back, but now that the government's gotten what it needs, the hosting companies no longer need to keep the data around because Megaupload's no longer paying them to do so. Carpathia Hosting and Cogent Communications, however, have decided to preserve the data for another two weeks while a deal is brokered with the DOJ for its release. In the meantime, the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) has teamed up with Carpathia to create a website that puts folks in touch with EFF attorneys so users can try to retrieve their data. No word as to what legal wrangling the EFF can do to make it happen, but those affected can get the wheels of justice started at the source below.
Megaupload users' data to be kept another two weeks, EFF to help folks retrieve it originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 21:19:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink The Inquirer, CNET  |  sourceMegaRetrieval.com  | Email this | Comments

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Engadget HD Podcast 284 - 01.31.2012
It's earnings season, which adds a businessy angle to this week's Engadget HD podcast but that's not dimming our spirits when we've got new Harmony remotes from Logitech on the (distant) horizon. Verizon, Netflix and Apple also have numbers to talk about, but if spreadsheets aren't your thing we've also got our impressions of the Boxee Box Live TV dongle and advice ahead of Super Bowl XLVI this weekend.

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

Producer: Trent Wolbe

00:02:10 - Logitech's Q3 2012 report confirms Revue is sold out, Harmony remote refresh 'in the coming months'
00:05:43 - Verizon releases Q4 results, sees jump in revenue, broadband subscribers, net loss

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Engadget HD Podcast 284 - 01.31.2012 originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 20:58:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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BlackBerry London resurfaces in leak, sports matte black exterior, nonexistent OS
BlackBerry London resurfaces in leak, sports matte black exterior, nonexistent OS
That salacious onyx number up there? Per CrackBerry, it's a rendering of RIM's upcoming BlackBerry codenamed London. Found lurking in a leaked Waterloo slidedeck, the svelte render now sports a more curvaceous and onyx exterior -- a departure from the angular metallic P'9981-esque dummy-unit first spied back in November. Those tweaks validate another rumor, which foretold the redo, as-well as the killing of its Milan and Colt siblings. Looks like RIM might be putting all of its eggs into this redesigned London-basket, which per this leaked roadmap could be yours come Q3. All or nothing, Thorsten Heins? We like your gusto -- bring on the black unicorn.
BlackBerry London resurfaces in leak, sports matte black exterior, nonexistent OS originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 20:35:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink   |  sourceCrackBerry  | Email this | Comments

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T-Mobile updates FamilyWhere location tracking service for worrisome parents
T-Mobile updates FamilyWhere location tracking service for worrisome parents
It was never intended as such, but The Rolling Stones' song Under My Thumb could easily pass as the anthem of overbearing parents across the globe. Now, T-Mobile is tossing its paranoid constituents a bone with an updated version of its FamilyWhere lineup. First onto the platform is FamilyWhere Check In, a free app that lets kids manually send their location to family members, which is delivered as a web link within a text message. The carrier's more robust application, known as FamilyWhere Locate, is a $10/mo subscription service that automatically provides location tracking for up to ten devices. Here, doting parents (and untrusting spouses) can keep tabs on their family via a web browser or the FamilyWhere app, and may choose to have regular location updates delivered via SMS or email. Now all you have to do is slap DriveSmart onto your kids' phones, and they're certain to resent you forever.
Continue reading T-Mobile updates FamilyWhere location tracking service for worrisome parents
T-Mobile updates FamilyWhere location tracking service for worrisome parents originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 20:02:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink MobileBurn  |  sourceAndroid Market  | Email this | Comments

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Biomask project could regrow burn victims' faces
Biomask
We know it's cliche to say something sounds like science fiction, but this is seriously one of the more far out there concepts we've ever heard. Researchers from UT Arlington and Northwestern University are working with surgeons from the Brooke Army Medical Center on a project called Biomask. The idea is to skip surgery and have patients wear a mask, layered with sensors, actuators and medicine delivery tools for several months while their face slowly regenerates. The outside of the medical miracle would be a hard shell to protect the electronics and the injured person's healing face. Underneath, a second layer would monitor tissue growth, watch for infections and feed data back to doctors. An on board system would be able to dynamically alter the treatment, sending antibiotics or stem cells where they're needed. The team actually hope to turn this facial reconstruction mask into a reality by 2017, a goal that we'll diplomatically call optimistic. Full PR is after the break.
Continue reading Biomask project could regrow burn victims' faces
Biomask project could regrow burn victims' faces originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 19:31:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink Ubergizmo, Wired  |   | Email this | Comments

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Sprint grants LightSquared six-week extension for FCC approval
As Carl Icahn prepares to take the wheel, buttressed by a cushion of distressed LightSquared debt, Sprint appears close to ending its ill-fated dance with the upstart LTE provider. After granting the Falcone-backed company a 30-day extension earlier this January, the Hesse-led co is taking one last stab at making that 15-year resource sharing agreement work, giving the beleaguered network an additional six weeks to garner regulatory approval for its controversial spectrum. As it stands, the fate of LS' wholesale 4G operation lies within the FCC's hands and with no hard date for a final ruling in sight, it's easy to read this last lifeline as the end.
Sprint grants LightSquared six-week extension for FCC approval originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 18:58:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink CNET  |   | Email this | Comments

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Screen Grabs: Big Bang Theory's Raj falls head over heels... for Siri (video)
Screen Grabs chronicles the uses (and misuses) of real-world gadgets in today's movies and TV. Send in your sightings (with screen grab!) to screengrabs at engadget dot com.

Finally! A TV show that we've actually seen (sorry, Gossip Girl). The Big Bang Theory's most recent episode featured Raj finding love with Siri. The uptight astrophysicist is incapable of speaking to women unless he's been on the sauce, but finds no such social inhibition with his iPhone's virtual assistant. Of course, like any geek receiving attention from the opposite gender, Dr Koothrappali soon becomes unhealthily infatuated with the handset, leading him on a trip to Cupertino to meet the person behind the microphone symbol. We won't spoil what happens, but you can probably work it out -- there's video past the break.
Continue reading Screen Grabs: Big Bang Theory's Raj falls head over heels... for Siri (video)
Screen Grabs: Big Bang Theory's Raj falls head over heels... for Siri (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 18:33:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink   |  sourceTUAW  | Email this | Comments

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LG's triple SIM A290: the phone every Russian Casanova needs
Dual-SIM phones are perfect for when the carriers are desperate for your business, keeping your work life separate, or to mask your philandering -- but what if two isn't enough? LG (stands for Lucky Goldstar, now you know) is producing a phone with a third SIM slot, only one less than the ridiculously equipped OTECH F1. The A290 candy-bar throwback sports a 176 x 220, 2.2-inch display, 1.3 megapixel camera, LED flashlight and a 1500 mAh battery. Russians (for it's exclusive to the nation) looking to swell their SIM collection can do so from next month at the cost of €75 ($100).
LG's triple SIM A290: the phone every Russian Casanova needs originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 18:07:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink GSM Arena  |  sourceHi Tech Mail (Translated)  | Email this | Comments

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Boxee desktop app being removed from servers tonight, get it while you can
Boxee 1.5
We knew that the Boxee desktop app's days were numbered, we just didn't realize how numbered. It was only the day after Christmas that we learned version 1.5 would be the last to ship for Linux, Windows and OS X. Now, with January coming to a close, its life is officially being snuffed out. Tonight, as you flip the calendar to February, Boxee will be busy purging its servers of the installable media center software. What that means, in case you hadn't figured it out, is that this is your last chance to download the official app for your desktop OS of choice as the company shifts focus to the Boxee Box and other streaming appliances. Of course, we're sure someone will pick up the torch and update the program, but as far as Boxee is concerned it has no desktop son.
Boxee desktop app being removed from servers tonight, get it while you can originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 17:39:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink   |  sourceGigaOM  | Email this | Comments

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Apple updates Airport stations and Time Capsule, brings bug fixes and iCloud support
It looks as if the Final Cut Pro X update wasn't the only software refresh Cupertino folks had in store for us. In this particular case, it's the company's networking and backup goods -- also known as Airport Express, Extreme and Time Capsule -- that are on the receiving end of the virtual enhancements. The 802.11n stations are getting a fix that solves "an issue with wireless performance," while the capsule is seeing some much needed iCloud support. Additional Apple cloud integration doesn't stop there, as you'll also be able to remotely access your Airport disk. Though, it's worth mentioning that in order to take full advantage you'll have to update your Airport Utility to the latest version (6.0). That means you'll also need Lion, so those of you keepin' your OS X old school with Snow Leopard will be out of luck on using some of the new features. Looking to up your wireless game? Hit up the source link for the full details.
Permalink   |  sourceApple  | Email this | Comments

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Humble Bundle expands to Android with World of Goo, Anomaly and more
The choose-your-own-price Humble Bundle has proven to be a runaway success on desktop platforms -- helping fund indie developers and causes like Child's Play and the EFF alike -- and it's now finally taken the plunge onto mobile devices. That move was kicked off today with the Humble Bundle for Android, which includes the games Anomaly: Warzone Earth, Osmos, and EDGE. Those three are available for any price you choose, but you'll also get World of Goo thrown in if you pay more than the average price (just over $5 as of this writing). As always, you can also choose how you'd like your contribution split between developers and charity (and the Humble organization itself), and you'll even get access the Windows, Mac and Linux versions of the same games as an added bonus. Hit the source link below to get started, or head on past the break for a video if you need any more convincing. We should also note that the Android games are offered as direct downloads, not through the Android Market; installations instructions are provided following your purchase.
Continue reading Humble Bundle expands to Android with World of Goo, Anomaly and more
Humble Bundle expands to Android with World of Goo, Anomaly and more originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 16:47:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink Joystiq  |  sourceHumble Bundle  | Email this | Comments

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Amazon announces Q4 2011 results: sales jump to $17.43 billion, but profits drop 58 percent
Amazon's just announced its earnings for the fourth quarter of the year, and it's a bit of a mixed bag. While net sales were up 35 percent year-over-year to $17.43 billion, net income dropped a hefty 58 percent to $177 million, or 38 cents a share -- that's off analysts' expectations, who were looking for sales in the neighborhood of $18.3 billion and earnings of 17 cents a share. As always, the company is remaining mum on any specific Kindle sales figures, but it says that sales of all Kindle devices nearly tripled over the holiday shopping season, and that the Kindle Fire remains the bestselling item across all of the products it offers; of course, the loss it's taking on each one is also one of the big reasons for that drop in profits.

Specific figures are equally hard to come by for some of Amazon's other services, but the company says the number of Appstore for Android customers has nearly tripled from the previous quarter (with them downloading more apps in Q4 than all of the previous quarters combined), and that the number of Instant Video customers has more than doubled year-over-year (with the number of streams increasing 300 percent from the previous quarter). Looking at the full year, sales for all of 2011 totaled $48.08 billion, up 41 percent from $34.2 billion in 2010, while net income dropped 45 percent to $631 million (down from $1.15 billion in 2010). And as for the future, Amazon is also lowering expectations somewhat for the first quarter of 2012, projecting that revenue will come in at $12 to $13.4 billion, and that net income could range from a $200 million loss to a gain of $100 million.
Continue reading Amazon announces Q4 2011 results: sales jump to $17.43 billion, but profits drop 58 percent
Permalink   |  sourceAmazon  | Email this | Comments

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Toshiba announces Q3 earnings: revenues down, posts $136 million loss
Toshiba
The economy may be starting to look up, but that doesn't mean the suffering is over. Toshiba is just the latest company to announce that it had a rough quarter to close out the calendar year 2011. The quarter ending December 31st of 2011, saw the company pull in $18.5 billion in revenue -- nine percent less than it did over the same time period last year. What's worse, is that even with all that cash flowing in, the Japanese electronics giant still lost $136 million during the fiscal third quarter of 2011. Practically every segment of the company saw sales decrease, including appliances, TVs and electronic devices, contributing to the poor performance. Toshiba has also revised its forecast for Q4, cutting projected earnings in half, but not going as far as to predict a loss. Check out the source link for full details.
Toshiba announces Q3 earnings: revenues down, posts $136 million loss originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 15:59:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink   |  sourceToshiba  | Email this | Comments

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Steam mobile beta now open to all, still of questionable utility
Steam Mobile
If you were dismayed to find yourself waiting in the queue for a beta invite after downloading the mobile Steam client the other day, fret no more -- the trial is now open to all who desire entry. Of course, it's still really just a companion to the desktop shop and not a must-have mobile gaming market. We're sure some of you have more friends on Steam than you do in meatspace, though, so being able to chat with fellow gaming addicts or purchase the latest DLC pack for Arkham City while on the go might be the greatest thing to ever happen to you.
Steam mobile beta now open to all, still of questionable utility originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 15:35:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink   |  sourceAndroid Central  | Email this | Comments

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AR goggles take crime scene technology to CSI: Miami level
AR goggles take crime scene technology to CSI: Miami level
Dutch researchers are looking to catapult crime scene investigation into the 21st century through the use of augmented reality (AR). The prototype system, designed by the Delft University of Technology, employs a pair of AR goggles, two head-mounted cameras and a portable laptop rig to allow investigators to build virtual crime scenes by tagging evidence and placing objects they are viewing. After mapping an area, additional law enforcement personnel can review the investigator's work and request additional information -- asking the CSI to define or place additional objects. Researchers hope that the 3D renders will be used as court-admissible evidence in the near future; the technology is set to be tried on a real Dutch crime scene later this year. We can see it now: Lieutenant Horatio Caine whips off his shades and tosses on a pair of (equally stylish) crime-fighting goggles... YEAAAAAAAAH!
AR goggles take crime scene technology to CSI: Miami level originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 15:08:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink   |  sourceNew Scientist  | Email this | Comments

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FurniGadget: N+ew freezes your e-waste into a stool
This is one of Rodrigo Alonso's stools. It's part of a series of furniture called N+ew, which stands for "No More Electronic Waste," the Chilean artist felt the best way to dispose of electronic gadgetry that had fallen by the wayside, was to encase it in epoxy resin and sell it to aesthetes worldwide. As you can see, the collection has a rare, distinct beauty that recalls Mies van der Rohe's Barcelona chair and Arne Jacobsen's No. 7 seat. If you find yourself unable to resist a purchase, bespoke editions can be ordered from the sculptor's website as the perfect conversation starter -- as long as you enjoy every conversation beginning with "What on earth possessed you to buy one of those things?"
FurniGadget: N+ew freezes your e-waste into a stool originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 14:41:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink Slashgear, Inhabitat  |  sourceRodrigo Alonso  | Email this | Comments

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Motorola Droid RAZR Maxx review

Most of today's smartphones, especially those of the LTE-enabled persuasion, have earned a bad rap for exceptionally bad battery life, with large displays and hungry radios that suck the juice out faster than a three year-old can down a CapriSun. The race to construct the thinnest phones on the market doesn't help much either, since whittling down handsets results in less space for generously sized battery packs. The Motorola Droid RAZR is currently the slimmest phone this side of the Pacific, offering a thickness of 7.1mm at its thinnest end, and the title likely won't hold for long as new phones like the Huawei Ascend P1 S aim to knock the RAZR off its throne. But at what point do we stand up and insist on adding a little extra heft for the sake of having a bigger battery?

Enter the Motorola Droid RAZR Maxx. A mere two months after its predecessor was released on Verizon, this new contender came around to challenge the battery life of every single next-gen phone we've ever used. Its back end has been filled out somewhat to make room for a bigger battery, but at 8.99mm, it's still slimmer than a huge number of competing handsets on the market today. So what makes the Maxx different from the RAZR? Is it worth paying $300 with a two-year commitment -- a $100 premium over its original? Read on to find out.
Gallery: Motorola Droid Razr Maxx overview
Continue reading Motorola Droid RAZR Maxx review
Motorola Droid RAZR Maxx review originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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NTT DoCoMo launches NEC Medias ES N-05D: Is 6.7mm thin enough?
NTT DoCoMo launches NEC Medias ES N-05D: Is 6.7mm thin enough?
Those NEC artisans have been at it again, shaving even more from its smartphone profiles. It's arrived at the Medias ES N-05D, which measures in at a ridiculous 6.7mm, and making the Droid Razr choke on its salad in the process. Like its predecessor, the ES N-01, the Android phone will be ready to play nice with your compatible G-Shock, alongside a waterproof shell, HD screen and eight megapixel camera. Arriving on NTT DoCoMo, you can expect those exotic 'standard' features that Japanese customers love, including a 1seg TV tuner and NFC wallet functionality. As is the tradition for new phones in the east, the phone will launch in several colors: black, white and (predictably) pink. Skinny jeans fans can hop over to the source to see exactly how Japan rocks its slim phones.
NTT DoCoMo launches NEC Medias ES N-05D: Is 6.7mm thin enough? originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 13:37:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink TechCrunch  |  sourceNTT DoCoMo (translated)  | Email this | Comments

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Razer Tiamat 7.1 delayed again, gamers everywhere realize they have other headset options
Tiamat 7.1
The so-called first true 7.1 surround sound headset is inching towards vaporware status. Razer's Tiamat 7.1 was originally supposed to land sometime in Q4 of 2011 but, as the holiday season approached, the company regretfully informed potential customers that the gaming gear would not ship until the end of January. Well, it's the 31st and the Tiamat is still no where in sight. In fact, Razer just issued yet another notice of delay on its blog. The company promises it'll ship the headset in February, but having been burned once already, we're wondering who is still holding out hope of getting their pale button mashers on a set. Hit up the source link to find out what sort of apologies (including a free t-shirt!) Razer is offering to satiate its frothy-mouthed customers.
Permalink The Verge  |  sourceRazer  | Email this | Comments

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Firefox 10 out now: full screen apps, fewer crashes, disappearing forward button
The tenth iteration of Mozilla's browser is rolling out from today and we're sat here waiting for our own go signal. As the biggest UI tweaks will arrive in v12, the majority of changes are under the hood: except that the "forward" button now only appears once you've pressed "back." New APIs provide for full-screen viewing of web apps, Anti-aliased WebGL graphics and an "extended support release" that enables enterprise customers to only download security updates. CSS 3D Transitions are now supported alongside a new CSS inspector for those digging deep into the fabric of the universe internet. Java applet and moving bookmarks crashes should be a thing of the past, but it's not all plain sailing: no new release ever is, after all. On the "to be fixed" list includes herky-jerky scrolling in Gmail, Silverlight videos not working in OS X and vertical scrolling is broken on some touch-pads. Let's hope they get the former fixed quickly, our inbox is already overflowing 'round these parts.

Update: The Mozilla blog has posted a quick demo video of how the new tools can help developers, check it out after the break.
Continue reading Firefox 10 out now: full screen apps, fewer crashes, disappearing forward button
Firefox 10 out now: full screen apps, fewer crashes, disappearing forward button originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 12:49:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink Electronista  |  sourceMozilla, Mozilla Blog  | Email this | Comments

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Battery maker Ener1 files for bankruptcy, tied to Think Global's bumper
Nobody was that surprised when EV maker Think Global drove off into the Chapter 11 sunset, but now it's towed an even bigger company along with it. Ener1 invested heavily in Think and also manufactured the lithium-ion batteries for its cars, but all it got in return was a lethal $69 million hole in its balance sheet. The company was de-listed from Nasdaq last month and now it's seeking bankruptcy protection to restructure $81 million in debts. If it fails to get its finances in order, organizers of the 2014 Winter Olympics may need to look for another power source.
Battery maker Ener1 files for bankruptcy, tied to Think Global's bumper originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 12:26:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink   |  sourceAutoblog Green  | Email this | Comments

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Windows 8 file management: You ask, Microsoft listens
After augmenting Windows 8 with some mobile-friendly features, it looks like file management is next to go under the knife. Not the sexiest part of an OS, granted, but one you'll use almost every day -- a fact not lost on Redmond. Based on newsgroup feedback, Windows 8 will sport a stack of tweaks hoping to make some of the more mundane tasks, well, less mundane. For example, if you copy duplicate files to a directory, it'll make decisions based on size, name and modified date to determine if it's the same file or not. For long copy jobs, error messages will be mercifully left until the end, allowing the rest to complete. Other simple touches include EXIF orientation data, which will be reflected in Explorer's preview, updates to the slightly contentious Ribbon, plus a bunch more user-driven goodies. We're reserving judgement until we get hands-on of course, but if you want to know more, there's a full rundown in the source after the break.
Windows 8 file management: You ask, Microsoft listens originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 12:02:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink   |  sourceMSDN  | Email this | Comments

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Apple Hong Kong revives reserve and pick up page, wants to stop iPhones going abroad
Apple Hong Kong revives reserve and pick up page, wants to stop iPhones going abroad
In a bid to keep iPhones sold in Hong Kong on the island nation, Apple has reintroduced reserve and pick up pages for the smartphones. The difference this time around is the inclusion of the customer's Hong Kong identity card number within the registration form, which goes live between 9am and 12pm each day. The aim is put breaks on the speculative smartphone buyers picking up several devices to mule across to mainland China. You'll still need a bit of luck; Apple performs a random draw each day for those that registered, and 'winners' are informed via email. Each card can apparently buy a limited quantity of the in-demand phone -- one that's getting some smartphone obsessives a little too hot under the collar.
Permalink Engadget Chinese (translated)  |  sourceApple Hong Kong  | Email this | Comments

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Hot Wheels RC iNitro Speeders hands-on (video)
Hot Wheels iNitro hands-on
iPhone-controlled RC vehicles are a dime a dozen these days. But, ones as tiny as a standard Hot Wheels car? Those are little more rare. In fact, we only know of one such product -- iNitro Speeders from Mattel. The radio-controlled Hot Wheels racers won't hit 100MPH, but it also won't decimate your bank account. The itty-bitty Mustang GT we tried out is, after all, just a toy -- and not the kind that bored rich men buy themselves. It's plastic, relatively cheap ($33) and designed to work with every kid's favorite touchscreen device, the iPhone. So, how is one of the premiere brands of die cast cars keeping up in the smartphone age? Keep reading after the break to find out.
Gallery: Hot Wheels iNitro Speeders hands-on
Continue reading Hot Wheels RC iNitro Speeders hands-on (video)
Hot Wheels RC iNitro Speeders hands-on (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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WTO ruling revives debate over China's rare earths trade
China suffered another setback at the WTO yesterday, thanks to a ruling that could spell trouble for its controversial rare earths industry. In a decision issued Monday, a WTO panel determined that the Chinese government has been acting in violation of international trade rules, due to export restrictions on a number of raw materials. These restrictions, the panel said, allowed Beijing to inflate global market prices, while giving an advantage to domestic producers. As a result, China will likely have to adjust its trade policies to comply with WTO regulations. In a statement, the country's Ministry of Commerce said it "deeply regrets" the decision, but confirmed that the People's Republic will adhere to it. This week's ruling applies to materials like bauxite, coke, magnesium, manganese and zinc, but, most notably, does not apply to rare earths -- a group of 17 elements critical to the production of tablets, smartphones and myriad other gadgets.

China has maintained a rather tight grip over the world's rare earths market, thanks to a slew of export controls, quotas and government-erected barriers to entry. The country has come under intense international pressure in recent years, with the US, EU and Mexico filing complaints with the WTO, arguing that China's price-inflating restrictions violate international trade agreements. Beijing, for its part, has long maintained that its export controls are designed to minimize the environmental impact of rare earth mining, while meeting the country's surging domestic demand. It's an argument that's come up a lot during this debate but one that the WTO, on Monday, deemed illegitimate, stating that China has thus far been "unable to demonstrate" the environmental benefits of its policies. The decision won't have any immediate bearing on these policies, but some observers are hopeful that it may be a sign of things to come. Michael Silver, CEO of rare earth processor American Elements, told Reuters that the ruling "confirms the existence of the two-tiered price structure that has caused so much concern," with EU Trade Commissioner Karel De Gucht adding that the decision should force China to remove restrictions on both the aforementioned raw materials and rare earths, alike. Others, however, aren't so optimistic, pointing out that, with a full 95 percent of the rare earths market under its aegis, China could realistically afford to ignore any decisions handed down from the WTO in the future.
WTO ruling revives debate over China's rare earths trade originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 10:37:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink   |  sourceReuters  | Email this | Comments

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HTC Ville gets hands-on en Francais, is presumably practicing its Spanish for MWC (video)
HTC Ville gets hands-on en Francais, is presumably practicing its Spanish for MWC (video)
While we're still a few weeks away from annual phone festival, MWC, it's these weeks in the run-up that often draw out blurrycam appetizers of what we'll see over in Barcelona. This time, it's no other than the HTC Edge Ville, that rumored divergent mix of quad-core processing bulk and slimline form-factor: something we don't typically see the unibody-armored HTC family. In the leaked video, you'll be getting a look at a heavily disguised version of Ice Cream Sandwich, covered in contentious (but new!) Sense sauce. The mysterious handset mole is also kind enough to pay a visit to the phone's specification list, confirming, at least if this is the finished article, an eight megapixel camera, 4.3-inch qHD display and a 1.5GHz dual-core processor. Alas, it looks like this isn't going to be the rumored quad-core debut from the Taiwanese phone maker, although going on past form, it won't shock us if the company reveals a whole line-up of handsets for us to meddle with next month. Take the tour yourself -- it's right after the break.

Update: Looks like the original video has been unceremoniously switched to private. Fortunately, we managed to grab a copy beforehand.
Continue reading HTC Ville gets hands-on en Francais, is presumably practicing its Spanish for MWC (video)
Permalink SlashGear  |  sourceHTC-Hub  | Email this | Comments

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Apple releases updated Final Cut Pro X, brings multicam support, broadcast monitoring love
Apple releases updated Final Cut Pro X, throws pros a bone with multicam support, broadcast monitoring support
The X version of Final Cut Pro was supposed to be all things to all people -- easier and more power for the serious amateurs and yet refreshing and comprehensive for the pros. In reality it seemed that neither camp quite saw it that way, but Apple has at least been listening. Today the company has announced version 10.0.3, which finally adds the one feature everyone's been clamoring for: multicam support. But that's not all. Join us after the break for a deeper look.
Continue reading Apple releases updated Final Cut Pro X, brings multicam support, broadcast monitoring love
Permalink   |  sourceApple  | Email this | Comments

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Sony's 3D Experience channel tops 10 million views, some people like the extra dimension
Sony's 3D Experience channel tops 10 million views, some people like the extra dimension
Since kicking off its free 3D Experience channel, Sony has managed to notch up 10 million viewers in just short of six months. The channel offers up samples of music, movies, sports and documentaries for free, in an effort to tempt viewers into ponying up cash for the full experience. The channel, available on its Bravia 3DTV range and Blu-ray players, has now expanded from its five initial launch countries to 60. It's currently offering tastes of forthcoming Sony titles like The Amazing Spiderman and content from last year's World Cup, with a total of around 100 free snippets to peruse on the Japanese iteration of the channel. You hear Sony well up with pride in the PR below. Well, it's had a pretty tough time recently.
Continue reading Sony's 3D Experience channel tops 10 million views, some people like the extra dimension
Permalink   |  sourceSony Japan (translated)  | Email this | Comments

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Google clarifies what isn't changing with new privacy policy
Google Privacy Policy
As you may remember, roughly a week ago Google issued a major overhaul of its privacy policies -- condensing some 60 scattered terms of service into a single document covering a vast majority of its internet empire. Of course, this raised concern, confusion and led to stories circulating the web about the inherent danger of the revised TOS. Truth be told, most of the wild-eyed fear mongering was done by those who either had not read or had not understood what the simplified policies mean (though, we hardly fault them for being suspicious). Google is looking to allay those fears however, and has released the full text of a letter written to congress clarifying the new TOS. The important information here is presented on the Google Public Policy Blog as bullet points and that is what's not changing. Users will still be able to search without signing in, opt out of targeted ads, export their data and maintain fine-grained control over their private data. Oh and Google will never, we repeat never, sell your information to advertisers. Hit up the source link if you're still in need of more details.
Google clarifies what isn't changing with new privacy policy originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 09:19:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink   |  sourceGoogle Public Policy Blog  | Email this | Comments

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McAfee updates Mobile Security to 2.0, keeps you protected on the go (video)
McAfee updates Mobile Security to 2.0, keeps you protected on the go
If you tend to exercise a bit more caution when using your mobile machine, we imagine you'll welcome McAfee's Mobile Security 2.0 with open arms. The Intel-owned security connoisseur has just introduced its refreshed apps, designed to protect Android handsets and slates, along with BlackBerry and Symbian smartphones. All users can take advantage of features such as Complete Anti-virus, Anti-spyware, Anti-phishing Protection, Call and SMS Filtering, while Android owners can also try out App Protection, which is said to interpret "how apps are accessing and possibly transmitting personal data," in order to keep your privacy under control. If you've been a paranoid -- or smart -- user since the first release, then the update will come at no cost, while those of you looking to jump aboard the secured ship for the first time will need to fork over the $29.99 subscription fee. You'll find all the details you need in the press release just past the break.
Continue reading McAfee updates Mobile Security to 2.0, keeps you protected on the go (video)
McAfee updates Mobile Security to 2.0, keeps you protected on the go (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 08:40:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink PC World  |  sourceMcAfee  | Email this | Comments

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RIM: It's okay, we have superheroes
It's a common human trait that, when faced with a series of calamities, the brain will retreat into a fantasy world in which everything is the exact opposite of reality. Could this be the inspiration for RIM's four new cartoon characters, which the company hopes will spread its "Be Bold" marketing message? The pattern certainly seems to fit. From left to right: there's GoGo Girl, who "saves the day with a brilliant strategy" (translation: we don't have a strategy). Then comes Justin Steele, who's "always ready to stick up for his friends" (translation: we don't have friends). Trudy Foreal "isn't afraid to call it as she sees it" (translation: our shareholders are complaining). Finally, the adventurous Max Stone is "able to jump out of a plane" (translation: we're going to crash).

Update: RIM has provided a little update stating that this is "not a new ad campaign." Still, it's fun to imagine what might have been.
RIM: It's okay, we have superheroes originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 08:10:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink PocketLint, MobileSyrup  |  sourceRIM  | Email this | Comments

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T-Mobile brings Square to select small businesses, does the mobile payment thing
T-Mobile is throwing some of its weight behind the mobile payment movement this morning, becoming the first carrier to offer Square credit card readers to a handful of retail outlets. Under the company's new campaign, stores equipped with T-Mobile smartphones will be able to use Jack Dorsey's readers to finalize transactions from the comfort of their palms. This should come in handy for cash-only businesses, in particular, as T-Mobile emphasized in its announcement today. It's all part of the provider's lineup of small business offerings, though not every retailer will be involved at launch. To see the full list of Squared-up outlets, check out the source link below.
Continue reading T-Mobile brings Square to select small businesses, does the mobile payment thing
T-Mobile brings Square to select small businesses, does the mobile payment thing originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink   |  sourceT-Mobile  | Email this | Comments

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Available Tags:LG , Xbox , Android , Nikon , Engadget , BlackBerry , Apple , Amazon , profits , Toshiba , Steam , Motorola , NEC , gamers , other , Firefox , Windows 8 , Windows , Microsoft , HTC , 3D , Google , McAfee , Security ,
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1 comment:

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February 2, 2012 at 11:12 AM

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