Audi's eKurzinfo app uses augmented reality to sidestep A3 owner's manual
Ever read your car's instruction manual? We didn't think so, and apparently, neither did the folks at Audi. Not too long ago, the firm introduced a unique twist on vehicle documentation, offering A1 owners an augmented reality app that could tell them about the car's basic functions at a glance. The eKurzinfo app's initial release only recognized 65 elements of the vehicle -- but has since been improved and is now available for the A3 sedan. Say you notice the car's new-fangled temperature gauge, but don't quite understand how it works. Point your phone at the instrument cluster, load up the app and it will explain that when the LEDs reach the top part of the display, the engine temperature is too high. Simple. The app will even show you where to find the coolant refill tank under the hood.
The app's developer, Metaio, says the upgraded eKurzinfo can recognize over 300 individual aspects of Audi's A3 -- from the smallest details like insignias on the car's windshield wipers to individual engine components. This should be more than enough data for drivers who are opposed to the traditional approach of RTFM (reading the freaking manual).
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Early HTC One Max press image reportedly spotted
To date, our glimpses of the HTC One Max (aka T6) have been limited to a few small photos. Courtesy of @evleaks, we may have a better look: he just posted what's reportedly a "non-final" (if high-quality) press image of the giant smartphone. The shot matches what we've seen before, suggesting that the One Max really is the One writ large. The only major changes are the camera flash position and the more conspicuous side trim. While the image can't reveal what's inside, such as the rumored Snapdragon 800 chip and bigger battery, it does hint that HTC's supersized device could launch relatively soon -- possibly at IFA.
Filed under: Cellphones, Mobile, HTC
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Source: @evleaks (Google+)
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NYT: NBC News buys Stringwire, hopes to bring user-generated live video to the news room
According to the New York Times, NBC News
has just purchased Stringwire, a web service the organization hopes
will allow viewers to live stream video content from their phones
directly to its control room, and thus to the world. Vivian Schiller,
chief digital officer for NBC News told the Times that she plans to use Stringwire for coverage of critical mass events like the protests in Cairo
or the bombings in Boston. While the service itself is at its nascent
stage, the key part of the acquisition is its inventor, Phil Groman, who
will whip the Stringwire into shape as its product lead.
The Times
reports that those interested in sharing their live video streams need
not bother with a special app. Anyone who tweeted they witnessed a
particular news event will get a Twitter reply from a Stringwire-linked
account that request they click a link. The link will then prompt them
to point a camera and live stream whatever it is they're seeing. And
don't worry about your local station accidentally showing something more
suited for Chatroulette than breaking news; Groman assured the Times that all videos will be vetted. As immediate on-the-ground reporting becomes even more urgent in today's fast-moving world, NBC's move toward citizen journalism could be a very smart one. NBC News is expected to make its formal acquisition announcement tomorrow.
[Original image credit: Paul Stein, Flickr]
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Source: New York Times
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How would you change Amazon's 7-inch Kindle Fire HD?
Yes, it's basically a trojan horse, convincing you to buy stuff from Amazon's online store, but at least it's beautiful. HD display, stereo sound and decent hardware propelled the Kindle Fire HD to second place when it first came out, right behind the original Nexus 7. Still, this is "How Would You Change," where we ask you to pretend that Jeff Bezos is listening to your ideas and show the world your innovative ideas on where the company can improve matters for generation three.
Filed under: Tablets, Amazon
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Refresh Roundup: week of August 5th, 2013
Your smartphone and / or tablet is just begging for an update. From time to time, these mobile devices are blessed with maintenance refreshes, bug fixes, custom ROMs and anything in between, and so many of them are floating around that it's easy for a sizable chunk to get lost in the mix. To make sure they don't escape without notice, we've gathered every possible update, hack, and other miscellaneous tomfoolery we could find during the last week and crammed them into one convenient roundup. If you find something available for your device, please give us a shout at tips at engadget dawt com and let us know. Enjoy!
Filed under: Cellphones, Tablets, Software, Mobile
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Weekly Roundup: Moto X review, LG G2 hands-on, Apple's next iPhone event, and more!
You might say the week is never really done in consumer technology news. Your workweek, however, hopefully draws to a close at some point. This is the Weekly Roundup on Engadget, a quick peek back at the top headlines for the past seven days -- all handpicked by the editors here at the site. Click on through the break, and enjoy.
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Switched On: Casting light on the Chromecast
Each week Ross Rubin contributes Switched On, a column about consumer technology.
Sold out for weeks after its launch, everyone seems to be in love with the Chromecast -- the ultra-cheap, ultra-small, interface-free, HDMI-toting TV appendage that stole the show from the new Nexus 7. Building beyond the DIAL device-discovery protocol that Netflix and YouTube have supported, Chromecast is a client of Google Cast, which enables the kind of second-screen control for volume and other features implemented by the device.
Google has gotten the jump on similar products such as the Plair TV dongle by natively supporting three of the most popular services to use on televisions -- Netflix, YouTube and Pandora. Furthermore, it has also enabled a backdoor to many other services by building in support for displaying Chrome tabs on a Chromecast-connected TV. In doing so, it treats the TV as an extension of the browser just as Apple's forthcoming OS X Mavericks can treat an Apple TV-connected set as another Macintosh screen.
Filed under: Home Entertainment, Google
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Samsung's curved OLED TV drops price by a third, LG brings cheaper 4K TVs
Korean manufacturers Samsung and LG often match each other in product introductions, but today they were together in announcing cheaper options for some of their latest TV technology. Samsung is dropping the price on its new 55-inch curved OLED (above) and LG rolled out two lower priced versions of its 55- and 65-inch 4K TVs that sacrifice a few premium features. In Samsung's case, the price is dropping by 34 percent, from 15 million won ($13,500) to 9.9 million ($8,910). While we'd heard the KN55S9 will arrive in the US mid-August for $15,000 there hasn't been an official announcement yet, but Value Electronics is promising more details on the 14th.
For LG, the new LA9650 (pictured after the break) variant of its 65-inch UHDTV drops to 8.9 million won ($8,010) compared to 10.9 million ($9,810) for the original LA9700, while the 55-inch is 5.9 million won ($5,310) compared to 7.4 million ($6,660). In the US the original models sell for $7,999 and $5,999, respectively, while retailer B&H already has placeholders for the new models with US prices of $6,999 and $4,999. If the listing is accurate, we could see these versions ship in the US around October 23rd. These new models give up a few creature comforts like the bottom-mounted motorized 4.1 speaker and camera, but keep the pixel count along with fixed 2.1 speakers and 16GB of memory for DVR functions.
According to the Korea Times, Samsung's price cut came as a result of improved manufacturing yield, and customers that already purchased one will be refunded the difference. Of course, these prices are hardly mass-market or challenging value priced entries from Chinese manufacturers Seiki or TCL, but is remarkable to see OLED technology dropping below $10,000 so quickly.
Filed under: Displays, Home Entertainment, HD, Samsung, LG
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Source: Samsung, LG
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Element14 unveils Raspberry Pi Projects hub and 8GB Model B bundle
While it's comparatively easy to get started with Raspberry Pi programming, it can be tough to find suitably challenging projects afterward -- what's good for rookies may bore seasoned pros. To solve this, Element14 has launched a Raspberry Pi Projects hub that organizes community projects by skill level. First-timers get tutorials for basic tasks, such as loading Minecraft: Pi Edition, while veterans learn how to build home monitoring systems and other advanced devices. Those who want a faster start on their projects can also spend $40 on a new Raspberry Pi Model B bundle that includes both the tiny PC and an 8GB SD card preloaded with six operating systems. There's no guarantee that you'll become an expert through Element14's hub, but you'll at least be saved from getting in over your head.
Filed under: Misc
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Source: Element14 (1), (2)
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iDoorCam shows you who's at your door, helps you hide from unwanted visitors
If you've ever gone on a long vacation (or hidden from someone at least once in your life) there's a chance you'll find high-tech doorbells useful. A new device called iDoorCam, in particular, claims to be able to notify you via iPhone or iPad whenever there's someone at your door -- even if you're not at home. Sound familiar? That's because we've seen a similar technology called DoorBot in 2012. Like DoorBot, iDoorCam's camera-equipped device connects to your home internet through WiFi and attaches to your existing doorbell power wires. It beams a video of your visitors to all connected iOS gadgets, and you can even talk with them, assuming it's not a crazy ex or a pushy solicitor. iDoorCam's website has yet accept preorders for the $165 system, but those first in line could get their devices as soon as October.
Filed under: Household
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Source: iDoorCam
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Inhabitat's Week in Green: lab-grown meat, eSpyder airplane and terabytes of RAM
Each week our friends at Inhabitat recap the week's most interesting green developments and clean tech news for us -- it's the Week in Green.
Summer is traditionally a time for firing up the grill and cooking up some burgers and dogs, but this week saw a high-profile foray into the realm of lab-grown meat. The world's first £250,000 lab-grown hamburger was taste-tested in London, and those who tried it said it isn't terrible, but it needs more fat. In response, Inhabitat polled readers to see what they would be more inclined to eat: the lab-grown meat, which was financially backed by Google co-founder Sergey Brin, or Beyond Meat chicken strips made mostly with soy protein, which are backed by Twitter co-founders Biz Stone and Evan Williams. On the design front, interior furnishing giant IKEA is set to debut a new augmented reality catalog that will allow you to preview what different products would look like in your apartment. And to find out how the company is able to produce cheap products while maintaining a small impact on the planet, Inhabitat interviewed IKEA's Chief Sustainability Officer, Steve Howard.
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Defense Mobile to offer Sprint-based cellular service to soldiers and veterans
While the US military can devote many resources to putting smartphones on the battlefield, it can't do the same for soldiers' private lives. A new carrier, Defense Mobile, wants to fill that void: it just announced a deal to use Sprint's CDMA and LTE networks for cellular service devoted to active-duty forces, reserves and veterans. The provider will offer plans at enlisted rank budgets, ranging from $20 for the basics to $60 for a family plan. It won't skimp on the handset selection, though -- the company already promises the Galaxy S 4, HTC One and iPhone 5. Defense Mobile hopes to go live in 2014, and it should arrive with both apps and branding tailored to each military branch.
Filed under: Cellphones, Wireless, Mobile, Sprint
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Via: GigaOM
Source: Defense Mobile
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Tango introduces Road Riot: its first original in-app game
Tango has added five titles to its gaming platform since it was launched in June, but this is the first time the company's introducing one created by its in-house team. The game, called Road Riot, pays homage to arcade classic Spy Hunter and involves firing cannons and dodging missiles in the midst of a race. While it's neither groundbreaking nor original, you've got to give Tango props -- the company claims it went through the process to better understand the platform and concoct updates that'll benefit developers. Similar to the other games on the messaging app, Road Riot's rife with social elements, including the ability to broadcast high scores and to invite friends to play. Only Android users can kill time while blasting 2D cars for now, however -- the iOS version won't be out until late August.
Filed under: Cellphones
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Twitch update for iOS more than triples live channels, revamps chat
Twitch streams a lot of events these days, and it's improving its iOS app to keep up with the flood of new content. The just-posted 2.3.5 update more than triples the number of accessible live channels from 200 to over 750, giving viewers a better chance of seeing a local tourney or a "let's play" feed. Chat has also received a thorough makeover that brings both a simpler design and support for Twitch's unique take on emoticons. And if you're a dedicated Dota 2 player, you'll definitely want this upgrade -- link your Steam account and you'll earn item drops in Valve's arena battler when watching certain streams. There's no word of corresponding updates for Android or other platforms, although Twitch says it's improving channel capacities across all its apps.
Filed under: Cellphones, Gaming, Tablets
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Via: Twitch Official Blog
Source: App Store
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TiVo Mini DVR extenders suddenly add Netflix streaming, Amazon coming soon?
While we enjoyed our time with the TiVo Mini multiroom DVR extender when we reviewed it, we noted several drawbacks including missing apps for Netflix and Amazon Instant Video (Hulu Plus has been present since launch). Both have been supported on standalone TiVos for a long time, but according to user reports Mini owners may finally have access to them. Zatz Not Funny posted the picture above and points out a TiVo Community post where users report icons for both are suddenly appearing on their Minis, although currently only Netflix is working. Forum poster and Engadget reader sbiller reports 1080p streams currently cause the Mini to reboot, so even that app may not be quite ready for prime time. Whatever the case, it should be active so if that's been stopping you from adding a Mini to your setup it may be time to reconsider, or re-reconsider.
Filed under: HD
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Source: TiVo Community, Zatz Not Funny
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Ask Engadget: what's the lightest laptop with discrete graphics?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, then here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget inquiry is from Steve, who wants to shed weight but retain power for his next mobile computer. If you're looking to ask one of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com.
"I'm a professional motion graphics editor looking for a laptop to take on the road with me. While I like the idea of a Haswell-powered machine, I'm really looking for a machine with proper discrete graphics. Is there an Ultrabook or really light laptop that marries both? Thanks!"
Our first thought was to look at Lenovo's W-Series, which offers a 2GB Quadro K2000M on the higher-end models and weighs in at a comparatively svelte 2.61kg. If, however, you want power and the ability to sneakily game while on planes, then there's one of Alienware's 14-inch units, which offer a GeForce GT750M and a weight of 2.7kg. Finally, you could always break the bank with a Retina Macbook, which offers a GeForce GT650M as a build-to-order option but weighs a relatively slender 1.02kg. That's three from us, we bet the Engadget Community can find you something even lighter.
Filed under: Laptops
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Mobile Miscellany: week of August 5th, 2013
If you didn't get enough mobile news during the week, not to worry, because we've opened the firehose for the truly hardcore. This week brought a smartphone inspired by TopGear's 2012 supercar of the year, leaks of a water-resistant handset for T-Mobile and an Android smartphone from LG that sells for under $100 outright. So buy the ticket and take the ride as we explore all that's happening in the mobile world for this week of August 5th, 2013.
Filed under: Cellphones, Mobile
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AllThingsD: Apple's next iPhone event slated for September 10th
September 10th, folks -- that's when Apple will unveil its next iPhone according to AllThingsD. We've received no official word yet, but recent leaks (and past form) suggest a refreshed iPhone 5 (possibly with a larger screen?) and possibly a low-cost model clad in plastic. It's a safe bet that the release version of iOS 7 will also make an appearance at the event, which is shaping up to be an iPhone- and iOS-focused affair, according to ATD. Feeling a sense of déjà vu? As always, we'll keep you informed when more concrete info makes its way to us.
Filed under: Cellphones, WirelessComments
Source: AllThingsD
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Engadget Podcast 355 - 08.10.13
Joseph joins us to discuss the Moto X and Brian shares his thoughts, as a vegetarian, on lab-grown hamburgers. Most importantly, however, Terrence swaps spots with Dana mid-recording to express his delight for Mars Explorer Barbie. This is the Engadget Podcast, folks. You know it, you love it and you can stream this week's episode below.
Hosts: Brian Heater, Dana Wollman, Joseph Volpe, Terrence O'Brien
Producer: Joe Pollicino
Hear the podcast:
Filed under: Podcasts
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Alt-week 8.10.13: The Mini Lisa, going ape and how Google Glass will turn you into an ant
Alt-week takes a look at the best science and alternative tech stories from the last seven days.
Science and art truly meet with the smallest Mona Lisa you'll ever see. Meanwhile, other scientists are taking primatology to the pool. Possibly of more concern, however, is how a game for Google Glass could finally confirm our destiny as mere worker ants in our technological future. This is alt-week.
Filed under: Science, Alt
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FCC loosens outdoor power restrictions on 60GHz spectrum
In response to industry petitioners, the FCC is easing outdoor power restrictions on the unlicensed 60GHz spectrum, which could bring faster broadband to rural areas and cost-effective backhaul solutions in urban settings. This ruling change would permit outdoor devices to deliver high-speed data over greater distances -- around a mile at 7 Gbps, all told -- and "enhance" the unlicensed utility of the 57-64GHz spectrum. While this is the same frequency WiGig uses, indoor power restrictions haven't changed any. Because this spectrum is unlicensed, it means that basically anyone can use it as long as they follow the FCC's rules; no funny business, please.
[Image credit: Rennett Stowe / Flickr]
Filed under: Household, Networking
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Via: Ars Technica
Source: FCC
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Smart's Fortwo ED leasing for $139/ month, battery rental included
Assuming you're small enough to fit comfortably, owning the cheap EV of your dreams could soon become a reality. Chevy recently cut the Volt's price and, as of this week, the Smart Fortwo Electric Drive is available for less, too. Specifically, it's $139 per month on a three-year, 30,000 mile lease that includes its "battery assurance plus" program, an $80 per month option for purchasers. However, to get that special rate, you'll have to put $1,999 down and sign paperwork either in California, Oregon or along the East coast. If you'd rather buy outright instead of leasing, Daimler's compact division has incentives for you, too. In addition to any tax breaks you get from the state and or federal government, the company is knocking $5,010 off the ED's already low $25,000 sticker price. It's finally looking like your payments could match the electric two-seater's diminutive stature.
Filed under: Transportation
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Source: Autoblog (1), (2)
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Air Force might shutter satellite- and space junk-tracking Space Fence soon
We imagine the Air Force is none too pleased that Space Fence might shutter as soon as September 1st due to budget constraints, according to leaked memos obtained by Space News. Space Fence, a powerful system of radars that track satellites and space junk orbiting the Earth, performs 40 percent of the Air Force Space Surveillance Network's observations. It can detect objects as small as a basketball up to 24,000 kilometers away and can constantly beam info back to the planet with no human input. It's no surprise then that the airmen called it a "critical defense system" when they tried to save the project in July -- an endeavor they failed if this info turns out to be true. Before anyone worries about unmonitored celestial debris hurtling toward Earth, know that a plan to build a more advanced Space Fence replacement exists. The only reason why it's not in the works is because it has yet to secure funding, leading this editor to think that someone really needs to get started engineering a money tree.
[Image credit: NASA]
Filed under: Misc, Alt
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Source: SpaceNews
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Pirate Bay releases 'PirateBrowser' to sail round censorship, mark ten years on the ocean wave
The Pirate Bay may be many things, but one that it is not, is a pushover. It's moved location, received continuous heat from various courts, and, of course, done some time. But still, it doesn't give up. The latest effort is a browser designed to help you access the torrent site in locations where ISPs won't let you. It's essentially a re-tooled version of Firefox, with a Tor client (not for anonymity) and proxy tools bundled in. The windows-only (for now) release comes on the 10th anniversary of the controversial site, with the developers telling TorrentFreak that this is just the start of a revised effort against web censorship. A sentiment that will resonate with an ever increasing number.
Filed under: Internet
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Via: TorrentFreak
Source: The Pirate Bay (Twitter)
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Fox Sports becomes official Formula E broadcaster
What good is an EV racing league like Formula E if there's no way to watch it? Not much, which is why the FIA has reached a deal making Fox Sports the official Formula E broadcaster. The agreement gives Fox a US exclusive for TV coverage as well as a mixture of exclusive and non-exclusive rights (including online content) in over 80 regions. We won't know if Fox is truly ready for the job until the first Formula E race begins in September 2014, but it won't be hard to tune in.
Filed under: Transportation, HD
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Source: Formula E
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