NVIDIA's Tegra 4 SoC enters the benchmark ring, KOs every other competitor in one shot
NVIDIA have been talking up their Tegra SoCs for quite some time now, and we knew to expect some magical things from Tegra 4 - but just wait until you see what this bad boy can do. Engadget have been hands-on at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, where they ran some benchmarks more than once and couldn't believe their eyes.
As you can see from the above numbers, that is quite insane. The numbers above numbers are devices with the latest software - namely Android 4.1 Jelly Bean - and not the stock Android 4.0 ICS that would normally come on them. The scores on the Xperia Tablet S and Transformer Pad Infinity are from ICS, so even if we added 10-20% on those scores, they still don't begin to compare with the Tegra 4-based reference device.
It looks like we should expect 1080p@60 gaming on Tegra 4-based devices, meaning that while AMD may have scored the contracts for all next-gen consoles - including the Sony PlayStation 4 - NVIDIA might offer similar performance from something that sits in your hand with a battery attached to it.
Related News
Read More ...
Ask the Experts: Should I buy the Radeon HD 7770 or the HD 7850 for gaming?
Our Ask the Experts section has a new question, where we have Andrew from the US wanting some help deciding between AMD's Radeon HD 7770 and HD 7850 GPUs.
Q: I'm getting pretty heavy into gaming and my graphics card just can't handle these new games, even on low settings.
My current card is an ATI Radeon HD 4650
Would you recommend the Radeon HD 7770 or the Radeon HD 7850? the 7850 has a 256 bit memory interface while the 7770 has only 128. However, the 7770's clock speed is 1020 Mhz while the 7850 is only 860 Mhz! Which would be optimal for high graphics gaming.
A: You can view the answer to Andrew's question right here.
Related News
Read More ...
Barnes & Noble reportedly looking for an exit out of the hardware market
It looks like the Barnes & Noble e-readers and tablets might not be around too much longer if a New York Times report is correct. The Times' report is from an unnamed source familiar with Barnes & Noble's corporate strategy, who said while "they are not completely getting out of the hardware business", executives can see that they need to shift the company's focus from low-margin hardware to licensing its "crown jewel" content to other platforms.
Barnes & Noble are reporting their third-quarter results this Thursday, which they're already downplaying in their Nook department. Could we see them leave the hardware game? I think so. I guess we'll find out more later this week.
Related News
Read More ...
US military to attach laser weapons fo fighter jets next year
It looks like the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) are looking to give their fighter jets yet another injection of supremacy with 150kW lasers that will be capable of taking missiles out of the sky.
The new weapons being attached to fighter jets are part of the defense agency's High Energy Liquid Laser Area Defense System and are reportedly being slapped onto jets as a defensive measure, specifically looking to take projectiles out of the sky - for example, surface-to-air missiles or any large projectile (incoming meteorites?). DARPA hope to have the new laser weapon attached to jets by 2014, with their first round of extreme tests before actual use.
This news is also coming directly from the US Pentagon and is being developed for the US Navy and Air Force, not only would future jets feature a laser, the General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc. (GS-ASI) would be building another laser system which would be in addition to the current laser system.
Read More ...
Huawei show off their Ascend P2 at MWC 2013
MWC 2013 - Huawei's Ascend P2 has finally been taken out of its packaging, and shown off to the world at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona just hours ago. The successor to the P2 provides some big changes in both hardware, and software.
The first of which is the 1.5GHz quad-core processor, 4.7-inch 1280x720 LCD, a 13-megapixel BSI camera also finds its new home in the rear of the Ascend P2. The design is curvier than its predecessor, measuring in at just 8.4mm thick, this is thicker than the P1 but is in relation to the bigger 2420mAh battery it houses.
Huawei's Ascend P2 is running the company's Emotion UI, and is backed up by more than one pre-loaded skin - on top of this you can go in and actually customize the UI appearance through a do-it-yourself (DIY) mode. There are also several management apps at play, with 'power manager", 'traffic manager', 'startup manager' and 'permission manager'. Some of these apps are simply re-skinned Android apps, but the startup manager is new to Emotion UI.
Related News
Read More ...
Lenovo offering new 7- and 10-inch Android-powered tablets
MWC 2013 - It's that time of the year again folks, we're seeing mobile devices being unveiled quicker than Taylor Swift writes songs about her ex-boyfriends, and now we have Lenovo's turn at unveiling some new products you might be interested in.
The company have released two new slates, the 7-inch A1000 and A3000 tablets, backing it up with a 10-inch S6000 tablet. The first tablet, Lenovo's A1000 is the entry-level device, featuring a 1.2GHz dual-core processor, 16GB of on-board storage which expandable by up to 32GB with microSD - finally, it runs Android 4.1 Jelly Bean.
The bigger brother of this is the 7-inch A3000, which is powered by a 1.2GHz quad-core MTK processor, and features up to 64GB of expandable storage through microSD. It also runs Android 4.1 Jelly Bean, but has an underwhelming 1024x600 IPS display. Also included in the A3000 series is another family member that will sport HSPA+ abilities.
Lenovo's third tablet is the 10-inch S6000, which is powered by the 1.2GHz quad-core MTK processor found in the A3000, but ups the display chops to a 1280x800 IPS display with a 178-degree viewing angle. The S6000 will include a cellular HSPA+ variant, too. Lenovo Mobile Access will be included, with the 3G-enabled tablets showing Lenovo as the service provider when the device is first turned on, which will allow new users to get web browsing access immediately. Once this runs out, you'll go back to your normal data plan.
No details on pricing or availability just yet, but we should expect a Q2 release on these new slates.
Related News
Read More ...
The first Firefox OS-powered phone is the ZTE Open
MWC 2013 - We've already had Samsung and HP take the stage at Mobile World Congress with Android-powered devices, but what about Firefox OS? Well, ZTE are here to show you that they have the ZTE Open, which is the first phone see in the wild running Mozilla's mobile OS.
The device, as reported by The Verge, is a very low-end device, with the Open being quite small, and has a washed out screen. Inside, it's reported to be running a Cortex A5 processor, and a 3.5-inch HVGA touchscreen. We should see more from the ZTE Open over the coming hours and days, but it looks like a very early Android phone - and this isn't good - unless it's going to be priced very competitively and enter the rising markets around the world.
Related News
Read More ...
HP unveils Slate 7, an Android-powered 7-inch tablet for $169
MWC 2013 - HP have come to Mobile World Congress this year with quite the surprise, a $169 tablet dubbed Slate 7. Slate 7 is powered by Android 4.1 Jelly Bean, and inside the specs are not too shabby either.
Slate 7 will feature a 7-inch 1024x600 display, a 1.6GHz dual-core Cortex-A9 processor, 1GB of RAM, 8GB of internal storage expandable by microSD. A 3-megapixel camera is featured on the rear of the device, backed up by a VGA-capable camera on the front. Beats Audio is included, and the Slate 7 weighs just 13 oz.
We should expect the Slate 7 to reach US retail shelves in April.
Related News
Read More ...
Samsung unveils HomeSync at MWC, an Android-powered TV-connected device
MWC 2013 - Samsung have used Mobile World Congress to let the skinny slip on their latest device, HomeSync. It's not a smartphone, it's not a tablet, but rather a TV-connected device running the same type of specs that we see in our mobile devices.
This means we're greeted with a 1.7GHz dual-core processor, Android 4.1 Jelly Bean, 1GB of RAM, 8GB of flash, a 1TB HDD for storage, Bluetooth 4.0, 802.11n 2.4 and 5GHz Wi-Fi, Gigabit Ethernet, optical audio and finally, HDMI 1.4. Samsung's HomeSync even supports up to eight individual password-protected and encrypted user accounts, which can each individually sync content from other devices, and share it through various accounts.
HomeSync is mostly a media hub capable of pushing out your content at 1080p, as well as streaming it from local Galaxy-branded devices. There's no news on whether this is anything to do with Google TV, but it does have the ability to grab content from the Play Store, as well as run its own apps. Another nifty feature is the ability to use your smartphone as a remote control with HomeSync.
Related News
Read More ...
Samsung Galaxy Note 8.0 S Pen tablet hands-on video from MWC 2013
MWC 2013 - Mobile World Congress 2013 in Barcelona doesn't officially start till tomorrow, but it didn't stop Samsung getting the action started with the launch of its latest tablet, the Galaxy Note 8.0.
Johannes Knapp, our correspondent at the event, was able to get some hands-on time with the new device and we've embedded the video above.
We'll have further details on the device shortly. For now, enjoy the video.
Related News
Read More ...
Looper (2012) Blu-ray Movie Review
Time travel features can be a bit of a hit or miss. On one hand you have classics such as Back To The Future, Terminator 2 and 12 Monkeys and on the other you have fluff like Time Cop, Timeline and the utterly disastrous A Sound of Thunder.
Looper sits somewhere in between, a proficiently made film which rides high on ideas, whilst refusing to get tripped up its own logistics; only flirting with its future locations, instead homing in on a few small set pieces which focus on the human drama.
In the year 2074, an era where time travel exists and human bodies filled with tracking implants has resulted in difficulties in disposing of them. To rectify this, contract killers called loopers are established 30 years in the past, tasked with disposing of bodies of those sent back in time, in order to be taken out on the spot. But when a Mafia boss prematurely ends the contracts of those in the future by sending the loopers future selves to be murdered, Joe Simmons (Bruce Willis and Joseph Gordon-Levitt) must solve the mystery of why they are being exterminated, with events in the future causing dynamic changes to the multiple timelines.
Looper certainly isn't perfect and despite the best of intentions, it isn't the next Matrix, but the sheer originality of the film simply can't be ignored, nor the unflinching vision of writer/director Rian Johnson and the achievement of telling such a visual story with a budget of just $30 million.
Video
Looper is presented in the film's original aspect ratio of 2.35:1, encoded with AVC MPEG-4 compression.
Filmed on Kodak 35mm stock and finished in the digital domain at 2K resolution, it's quite possible that Looper will never look better than it does here. The image is sharp and clear, as one would expect, with a significant amount of detail evident in every frame, with fine textures really helping the image pop.
Black levels are quite solid, although I did notice the contrast waver at times. There are certainly no instances of edge enhancement or film artifacts marring the frame.
Audio
Looper is presented in DTS HD Master Audio 5.1, at 24 bits.
Not content to be just a proficient soundtrack, Looper aims to be a great one, filled with all the bombast and immersion that the visuals do. There are no issues I could detect in regards audio sync or intelligibility, and the surrounds are kept active at all times. Topping it off is some quite extreme LFE. One complaint would be that the soundtrack is just a little too dynamic, forcing a bit of volume surfing so as to not upset the neighbors (or the girlfriend).
The industrially percussive score by Nathan Johnson (cousin of Director Rian Johnson) is a frenetic experience, utilizing sound effects which substantially heightens the on-screen visuals.
Extras
Roadshow Home Entertainment, along with U.S. distributor Sony Pictures produced a reasonably solid collection of supplements.
First up is the feature length Audio Commentary featuring Writer/Director Rian Johnson, along with lead actors Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Emily Blunt. Johnson is a smart and insightful guy and the commentators bounce off each other well, with clear rapport. Admittedly, only the most dedicated of the film's fans will be able to sit through the entire run.
Next we have four brief featurettes; The Two Joes, which over five minutes explains the process of turning Joseph Gordon-Levitt into Bruce Willis, with the aid of some handy prosthetics, while The Future from the Beginning and The Science of Time Travel discuss some of the plot elements. However, I found the final featurette; Scoring Looper to be by far the most interesting, with Nathan Johnson revealing the techniques and digital manipulation that went into producing the films memorable score soundtrack.
Next up are approximately some 38 minutes of Deleted Scenes presented in 1080p (along with optional commentary) which reveal that a significant batch of scenes featuring young Joe's girlfriend Suzie hit the cutting room floor. Finally, we have an oddly animated Theatrical Trailer, which differs to the standard, live action trailer I saw in cinemas.
... Read the rest in your browser!
Related Content
Read More ...
Dick Tracy (1990) Blu-ray Movie Review
In the summer of 1990, hot on the heels of the success of Tim Burton's Batman, Disney (through its Touchstone brand) launched what was hoped would be Disney's own superhero franchise. Unfortunately, its success was only middling and plans for additional films were shelved. However, in the shadow of the evolution of comic book adaptations some two decades on, Dick Tracy has lost none of its ability to entertain, now seen as even more campy and tongue in cheek than it ever was.
There is a real charm to the film that contemporary overtly serious fare such as The Dark Knight can't quite match. Rather than aging as badly as its star Madonna, it's quite possible that two decades on Dick Tracy can finally find its audience, and with the quality of this Blu-ray release - there's no reason it can't.
Set in a fictionalized, undated Chicago, Dick Tracy, is a hard-but-fair detective, whose day-to-day activities include battling grotesque Capone-like thugs, including Alphonse Caprice (Al Pacino) and the ruthless Flattop (William Forysth) for dominance over the towns various crime syndicates. When Caprice wipes out his rival Lips Manlis (Paul Sorvino), taking ownership of his moll, Breathless Mahoney (Madonna), and the nightclub she performs at, coming one stop closer to complete dominance of the city, but a straight cop like Dick Tracy won't take this lying down.
Whilst Dick Tracy is a mostly family-friendly action film, very occasionally the envelope is pushed with some double entendre dialogue, or risque costumes. What is clear is that the film has stood the test of time, with innovative production design and photography, some great character performances, including Dustin Hoffman as Lips, and great visuals. In many ways the film reminds me of The Rocketeer; and just like that film (also recently released on Blu-ray), it's high time that Dick Tracy was re-evaluated.
Video
Dick Tracy is presented in the original aspect ratio of 1.781, encoded with AVC MPEG-4 compression.
Recipient of an all-new transfer of unknown resolution, Dick Tracy has never looked better. The overly red-hued image of the DVD release is now far more balanced, rendering the films signature comic book primary colors even bolder than before.
Made well before the digital age, Dick Tracy utilized many photochemical tricks in its repertoire, including significant use of models and matte paintings. Rather than accentuate these, the new transfer helps the image look even more filmic, and thus, strangely realistic.
Disney have retained a consistent and fine level of film grain in the transfer, whilst removing the unsightly video noise and mosquito noise that marred previous masters.
I'm really pleased that Disney went above and beyond for the film, rather than utilize the aged HD master that's played on network TV for some years. The film sure does deserve, and benefit from the treatment.
Audio
Dick Tracy is presented in DTS HD MA 5.1 at 24 bits.
Notable for its timeline in history as the first film to be mastered in the digital domain with six track sound, Dick Tracy will most definitely slam your home theatre with the same bombast as the films visuals. No doubt, there has been some audio remixing and sweetening since then - the film has some very aggressive use of split surround activity and deep bass feedback.
I didn't detect any audio sync or intelligibility issues, nor any distortion or other undesirable anomalies. The numerous musical sequences scattered throughout the length sound internally appropriate and overall the mix sounds quite alive.
To put it simply, I highly doubt Dick Tracy will ever sound better than this.
Extras
Sadly, Disney elected to release Dick Tracy as a bare-bones Blu-ray release, without even a lowly Theatrical Trailer to contribute. It's a real shame too, because there would be undoubtedly a myriad of interesting stories from the film's production, not least the torrid love affair between Beatty and Madonna that unfolded behind the scenes.
... Read the rest in your browser!
Related Content
Read More ...
Australian Blu-ray Importing: February 2013 Buying Guide
Since last time we looked at the 'Guide to Buying Blu-rays from Overseas' last month, the Australian dollar has continued to dance around parity with the US dollar based on strong export markets and a struggling U.S. economy. With studios starting to open their catalogues to much anticipated titles, coupled with deep discounting in overseas markets, it's still a really great time to import some rarer Blu-ray titles.
Let's jump into the latest instalment of the series, covering some of the later titles released overseas, but safe for Australian region coding.
Top Gun 3D
Studio: Paramount Home Entertainment
Country of Origin: United States
Purchase: Amazon.com
Region: A, B, C
The "highway to the danger zone" gets a little bit more depth, courtesy of Paramount's first catalogue 3D re-release. Whilst Top Gun might not scream out for the 3D treatment, compared to other titles in Paramount's stable of titles including 11 Star Trek titles, Transformers, Iron Man and Indiana Jones, the 3D re-release for the tongue in cheek 80's classic is surprisingly effective. Coupled with a new transfer with improved colour correction (albeit slathered with noise reduction), the film has debatably never looked better.
While the conversion won't make enemies of the 3D format change tact, fans of the format will be pleased with another high profile film title to add to their collections. Notably, the addition of a third dimension does not affect the latent homosexuality evident in the climactic netball scene.
Ninja Scroll
Studio: Manga Entertainment
Country of Origin: United Kingdom
Purchase: Amazon.co.uk
Region: A, B, C
When I first saw Ninja Scroll as a teenager, I distinctly recall being rather shocked at some of the more, let's say, confronting scenes. That I wasn't so bothered during the viewing of Manga Entertainment's new Blu-ray release indicates that I've either grown up, or become completely desensitized. I'll assume the latter. But I digress.
Along with Ghost in the Shell and Akira, Ninja Scroll has proved to be one of the most influential anime titles in history, creating a new style and a legion of fans. It's also eminently accessible in both English and original Japanese dubs, with a classical storyline that transcends cultural barriers.
Manga's new 1080p transfer does not overcome some of the shortcuts in the animation, but restored in its original 1.33:1 aspect ratio, Ninja Scroll is definitely one to add to the collection. For a limited time, the film is even issued in collectable steel book packaging.
The Last of the Mohicans
Studio: Warner Brothers Home Entertainment
Country of Origin: United Kingdom
Purchase: Amazon.com
Region: A, B, C
Michael Mann's opus The Last of the Mohicans is a classic by any appropriation, but just like Ridley Scott's near perfect Blade Runner, Mann just can't quite resist tinkering around the edges, with this third 'Directors Definitive Cut' version of the 1992 film, the first, and only version of the film to hit Blu-ray.
While long term fans may be displeased at the latest round of revisions, including new color timing, changes to music and many editorial nip and tuck alterations, this version is by and large the same version of the film that was released to much critical acclaim 21 years ago.
Warner's region free Blu-ray release is actually the same disc as the 2010 issued disc from Twentieth Century Fox which was region locked.
Catch Me If You Can
Studio: Warner Brothers Home Entertainment
Country of Origin: United States
Purchase: Amazon.com
Region: A, B, C
I'm not sure what Paramount's problem is, but they've developed a worrying trend, which is 1) annoying to fans, 2) treats Europeans and Australians as second class citizens, and 3) seems to defy economical considerations.
Despite being released to the Australian market in December, the local release of Steven Spielberg's Catch Me If You Can has somewhat astoundingly dropped the entirety of the films extra features in favor of a bare bones release. Luckily the US, region free release has retained them. Clearly, the import release is the most desirable product and with no region protection, there's nothing to stop fans from taking the law into their own hands.
Spielberg's 2002 drama starring Leonardo Di Caprio and Tom Hanks has weathered the last 11 years well, with the still fresh faced Di Caprio resolving to be taken seriously, under the tutelage of Hollywood's most experienced hands. Paramount has gifted the film with a solid transfer that replicates the 1960's aesthetic, mirrored in the production design and Januz Kaiminski's photography.
... Read the rest in your browser!
Related Content
Read More ...
Be the First to Reserve Your LG Optimus G 'Superphone'
LG Electronics and Telstra today announced they will begin taking pre-orders for the highly anticipated LG Optimus G ahead of it arriving in Telstra stores on Tuesday 12 March.
Customers can purchase the LG Optimus G 'Superphone' for $0 upfront on the $60 Every Day Connect plan (minimum cost $1440 over 24 months).
"Optimus G has generated a tremendous amount of positive interest and we want to make sure that customers anticipating the 'Superphone' will have the opportunity to get their hands on one as soon as possible. The LG Optimus G is a serious contender in the highly competitive post-paid market, and it is packed with class leading technologies. We believe this is simply the greatest Android handset to arrive in Australia to date," said Jonathan Banks, LGE's new Head of Mobile Communications.
LG's Optimus G features the latest advancements in hardware and software and represents collaboration between LG Display, LG Innotek, and LG Chem. Among the features on offer, the Optimus G comes with a Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 Pro Processor, and a high-resolution 13.0MP camera. Superb user experiences include QuickMemo, QSlide, Dual Screen/Dual Play, Zerogap Touch screen technology, and a high-density 2,100mAh battery.
Telstra Mobile Director, Andrew Volard, said Telstra is excited to offer customers the LG Optimus G on Telstra's 4G network.
"We're sure our customers will love the impressive LG Optimus G smartphone, especially when paired with Telstra's high-speed 4G coverage -- which is available in more than 100 metropolitan and regional areas nationwide."
All customers who pre-order online from Telstra between Monday 25 February until Monday 4 March will go into the draw to win the ultimate Australian F1 Grand Prix experience valued at $25,000.
The prize package includes flights and accommodation to Melbourne for 2 people, Friday Paddock Club pass, pit lane walk, a hot-lap in a 2 seater F1 car, grandstand passes for Saturday and Sunday, and $1,000 to spend - a super prize brought to you to by the 'Superphone'. Full competition information can be found at http://www.lg.com.au/f1promo
Telstra customers can pre-order and find out more information at: http://www.telstra.com.au/optimus-g
Related Press Releases
Read More ...
LG ANNOUNCES FOUR OPTIMUS SERIES DEVICES AT MWC
BARCELONA, Feb. 24, 2013 - LG Electronics (LG) will unveil a smartphone lineup at Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona, Spain that focuses on a four-tier strategy. The four strategic Optimus series devices - G, Vu:, F and LII - all feature LG's next generation core technologies. These new models combine outstanding hardware, world-class high definition displays and a user-centric user experience (UX) with each series emphasizing a different facet of the company's smartphone expertise.
With an initial target to sell 10 million smartphone each quarter and double sales of LTE devices in 2013, this is LG's most ambitious smartphone strategy to date. Flagship models from the G and Vu: series will target the premium segment while the F and L series will be positioned as more mass audience smartphones for 4G LTE and the 3G markets, respectively.
LG Optimus G Series - Flagship Superphones Featuring World-class Hardware
Since the launch of LG's Optimus G last September, the immensely popular flagship product has received a number of awards and favorable reviews thanks to its high quality display, advanced 4G LTE technology, superb design and innovative UX. Development of the Optimus G was the result of close collaboration with sister companies LG Chem, LG Display and LG Innotek.
The Optimus G is the first smartphone in the world to employ Qualcomm's powerful Snapdragonâ„¢ S4 Pro Quad-Core processor. And LG's True HD IPS Plus display and Zerogap Touch technology deliver vibrant, high quality images and superior touch responsiveness. In addition to its unmatched hardware, stylish design and a beautiful screen, the Optimus G also incorporates user-friendly UX features, such as QSlide, QuickMemo and Live Zooming.
Originally launched in key target LTE markets, the LG Optimus G is making its debut in over 50 countries. The newest addition to LG's Optimus G series, the Optimus G Pro, was recently introduced to the Korean public. The Optimus G Pro is a 4G LTE-equipped smartphone with a 5.5-inch Full HD IPS display and compelling new UX features such as Dual Recording and Virtual Reality (VR) Panorama.
LG Optimus Vu: Series - Large Screens for Enhanced Viewing Experience
A new hybrid LTE device that combines the portability of a smartphone with the viewing experience of a tablet, LG's Optimus Vu: is equipped with a 5-inch, 4:3 aspect ratio display that is ideal for viewing documents, e-books, multimedia content and browsing the internet. With the recent addition of the Optimus Vu: 2 in the Korean market, there are now two devices in Vu: Series that deliver a unique mobile user experience with UX features such as Vu: Talk and QRemote.
LG Optimus F Series - 4G LTE Smartphone for Everyone
LG's Optimus F Series is the ideal 4G LTE smartphones for just about everyone. Both the Optimus F5 and Optimus F7 were specifically designed for consumers making the transition from 3G to 4G LTE networks. The launch of Optimus F Series this year will enable LG to expand its footprint rapidly in the burgeoning 4G LTE market. LG Optimus F will deliver to new 4G customers the speed of LTE and a range of useful UX features without the high entry fee demanded by most 4G smartphones. The Optimus F5 and Optimus F7 will be showcased at LG's MWC booth.
LG Optimus LII Series - Continuation of Unique Design Heritage
The Optimus LII Series incorporates the refined sensibilities of LG's L-Style design philosophy. Each 3G phone's subtle yet bold aesthetics are representative of LG's unmistakable design DNA. Surpassing the beauty of the first L Series, the Optimus LII Series were developed around four new design elements: Seamless Layout, Laser Cut Contour, Radiant Rear Design and a home button with Smart LED Lighting. The Optimus L3II, Optimus L5II and Optimus L7II will all be on display at MWC.
Creative and Friendly UX - Intelligent Features That Go Beyond Hardware
LG continues to develop the most advanced UX in order to provide unrivaled user-centric features in the era of LTE technology and large, high-resolution displays. The company's four new smartphone series include an array of advanced UX features that were designed to take maximum advantage of the hardware specific to these devices.
First unveiled on LG's Optimus G, QSlide provides the ability to display two full-sized windows simultaneously, enabling users to perform a greater combination of tasks with increased efficiency. The recently upgraded version of QSlide allows for the opening of two apps at the same time in full screen mode and change the size, position and transparency of QSlide windows as needed. Video, browser, memo, calendar and calculator functions are all compatible with LG's true multitasking UX. Dual Recording and Virtual Reality (VR) Panorama are two of the newest additions to LG's UX specifically designed to take advantage of the latest Full HD display technologies to enhance the users' mobile viewing experience.
Related Press Releases
Read More ...
Lenovo Announces New Android Tablets
BARCELONA--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Lenovo (HKSE: 0992) (PINK SHEETS: LNVGY) today announced a line-up of new Android tablets, offering configurations and form factors to match consumer needs for both ultra-portable tablets and multimedia performers. The portfolio, which also boasts unique connectivity features, will be available starting in the second quarter 2013.
"We believe that our Android family of tablets will appeal to customers across the world as we've built our products to be highly accessible and flexible to serve multiple needs and budgets."
The range starts with two new A-series tablets, seven-inch devices, designed for optimal mobility while still packing a performance punch. The A1000 is ideal for first-time tablet buyers and features enhanced audio, while the A3000 offers quad-core processing for speedy performance whether for gaming or web-browsing. Alongside these models, Lenovo also announced the new 10-inch S6000, which offers extended I/O options, a large, vibrant screen and a super-slim profile that looks sophisticated and elegant, whether the user is web-surfing in the coffee shop or enjoying movies and games at home.
"Lenovo's latest Android tablet family is designed to meet the demands of a wide range of customers, particularly young, active users who are always on the go, and have adopted the seven-inch form factor as their own. With these latest additions to our tablet portfolio, we've created devices that address these customers' needs, as well as devices for more demanding gamers and multimedia users," said Chen Wenhui, vice president Lenovo and GM Mobile BU, "We believe that our Android family of tablets will appeal to customers across the world as we've built our products to be highly accessible and flexible to serve multiple needs and budgets."
S6000, Mobile "Home Entertainment" Center
As tablets have continued their march into the mainstream, increasing demands with regards to larger screen devices have raised the bar for tablet makers. Lenovo has responded with the S6000, a sleek and powerful option for customers looking for a device that switches seamlessly from entertainment to social media and beyond. Powered by the MTK 8389/8125 1.2 GHz quad-core processor, the S6000 shines as a multimedia and gaming tablet fronted by a 10.1-inch IPS 1280X800 display with a wide, 178-degree viewing angle, micro HDMI port and digital microphone. The S6000 also offers a number of additions to optimize its performance as a connectivity tool for social networkers including optional HSPA+ and a substantial battery that allows for more than 8 hours of continuous WiFi web browsing. Even with these specifications though, the S6000 does not lose track of style and convenience; it is all tied together in a super slim (8.6mm) and light (560g) frame that feels good and helps users look good.
A3000, Full Performance in a Compact Package
In today's connected world, devices must be mobile, without skimping on performance. The A3000 bristles with specifications typically found in a much larger device, all packed into a seven-inch form factor that is thin and light. Powered by a 1.2GHz quad-core, MTK processor, the A3000 optimizes the user experience for games, video, photo-sharing and web-browsing, offering seamlessly fluid navigation and highly responsive performance. The benefits of the seven-inch form factor are not ignored on the A3000 either. The tablet, which sports an IPS 1024x600 screen, weighs in at less than 340g and is only 11mm thick, but can still hold a wealth of content with an extensive memory, which can be extended to 64GB with the external micro-SD card. Optional 3G HSPA+ support ensures users stay connected on the go with Lenovo's ultra-portable tablet.
A1000, Pocket Studio with Dolby
The A1000 delivers an audio experience normally reserved for more expensive tablets in a seven-inch device. With Dolby Digital Plus integrated into the device and large, front-facing speakers that ensure the sound is directed at the users' ears rather than the floor, the A1000 is perfect for music lovers and those seeking a "pocket studio" for either music or movies. The A1000 runs Android Jelly Bean 4.1 on a 1.2GHz dual-core processor and has on-board storage of up to 16GB, extendable to 32GB with a micro-SD slot, so users can load content up and take it to the gym, the office or anywhere else they want to experience high-quality sights and sounds. It also comes in either black or white, allowing users to customize their Lenovo pocket studio to their lifestyle.
Lenovo Mobile Access
All the new Android tablets come with Lenovo Mobile Access, a unique service that allows users to connect instantly "out of the box". When customers first power up their Lenovo device, they will see an icon indicating Lenovo as their access provider. Without having to set up a special data plan, they can immediately start browsing web pages, accessing their email and sharing content with friends using HSPA+ 3G access or through WiFi according to their specific configuration. When the initial Lenovo Mobile Access service expires users will be prompted with the option to easily renew their plan or select an alternative service.
Pricing and Availability1
The newest Android tablets will be available worldwide from Q2, 2013. Although pricing varies according to market, configuration and model, each tablet in the range is competitively priced to ensure maximum accessibility to a premium user experience for all customers.
Related Press Releases
Read More ...
Samsung HomeSync creates connected media experience for the whole family
Barcelona, February 24, 2013 - Samsung Electronics Co, Ltd., a global leader in digital media and digital convergence technologies, today announced Samsung HomeSync, a home hub solution that a shared storage fit for a family, the best entertainment experience on a big screen TV, and a new way of enjoying your HDTV through a familiar and smarter Android user experience.
Shared Storage for a Family
HomeSync's 1TB drive can help you sync to multiple devices, providing shared or private storage for all your content. It supports eight separate accounts to cover a whole family, and allows each user to upload and download content from multiple devices and instantly share with other family members. File encryption and user-specific ID and password ensure content in a user's private area remains separate from the shared area in HomeSync.
Entertainment on a Big Screen
The HomeSync brings the best of Android gaming, movies, TV shows and streaming content direct into your living room. It allows you to stream content from your Galaxy device wirelessly to the TV - letting you watch, see and use all your home videos, photos and apps, and all at a full HD 1080p.
Giving any HDTV new Smarts
Users can enjoy the full and familiar Android experience with HomeSync's Jelly Bean media player and access to Play Store and all of your apps. HomeSync also enables new ways to interact with your content via the control modes enabled wirelessly on the phone.
HomeSync will be available from April 2013 starting in the US and continue to expand globally.
Codec support:
Video
H.264, H.263, MPEG4, VC-1, Sorenson Spark, WMV7/8, MP43, VP8, DivX
Audio
MP3, AAC LC/AAC＋/eAAC＋, WMA 9std/10pro/Lossless, FLAC, Vorbis, AMR-NB/WB, Wav, Mid, AC-3
Related Press Releases
Read More ...
HP Unveils Android Consumer Tablet
BARCELONA, Spain, Feb. 24, 2013 - HP today announced the HP Slate7, an affordable Android Jelly Bean consumer tablet that provides customers with easy access to Google Mobile services.
With a 7-inch diagonal screen and weighing 13 ounces, the HP Slate7 is an ideal trusted personal companion, featuring a stainless-steel frame and soft black paint in gray or red on the back. It also is the industry's first tablet to offer embedded Beats Audio, for the best-sounding, richest audio experience available on a tablet.
The HP Slate7 delivers the Google experience with services like Google Now, Google Search, Gmail, YouTube, Google Drive and Google+ Hangouts for multiperson video chat as well as access to apps and digital content through Google Play.(1)
"To address the growing interest in tablets among consumers and businesses alike, HP will offer a range of form factors and leverage an array of operating systems," said Alberto Torres, senior vice president, Mobility Global Business Unit, HP. "Our new HP Slate7 on Android represents a compelling entry point for consumer tablets, while our ground-breaking, business-ready HP ElitePad on Windows 8 is ideal for enterprises and governments. Both deliver the service and support people expect from HP."
The HP Slate7 joins the recently introduced HP Chromebook as part of HP's push to offer access to the Google experience.
HP's tablet offerings reside in the company's newly formed Mobility Global Business Unit, established in September 2012 with the hiring of Torres. Torres joined HP from Nokia, where he was executive vice president and oversaw the MeeGo products and platform.
HP Slate7 makes computing easy while on the go
Powered by an ARM Dual Core Cortex-A9 1.6 GHz processor, the HP Slate7 is fast and responsive. Integrated wireless allows customers to access email, the internet and key applications, while the High-aperture-ratio Field Fringe Switching (HFFS) panel offers wide viewing angles that provide easy viewing of documents, games, photos and videos-even in outdoor lighting conditions.
The HP Slate7 includes a 3-megapixel camera on the back and a VGA camera on the front for chatting, videos and photos.
With the HP ePrint (2) application, customers can easily print while at home or on the go, and the exclusive native printing capability enables customers to print directly from most applications. A micro USB port allows customers to easily transfer files, and a suite of applications from HP spans exclusive games to productivity tools.
HP will provide an array of simple and easy-to-access support tools and resources to help customers take full advantage of all of the features the HP Slate7 has to offer. In addition to extensive phone and online support offerings included with the HP Slate7, HP is offering customers the opportunity to add to the standard product limited warranty with its HP Care Pack services. HP Slate7 customers will have the option to protect their investment with a two-year HP Care Pack for $29 or a two-year HP Care Pack with Accidental Damage Protection (ADP) for $49.(3)
Pricing and availability(3)
The HP Slate7 is expected to be available in the United States in April with a starting price of $169.
Related Press Releases
Read More ...
Available Tags:other , Radeon , hardware , Lenovo , Firefox , ZTE , HP , tablet , Samsung , Galaxy , Blu-ray , LG , Android ,
No comments:
Post a Comment