Friday, September 23, 2011

IT News Head Lines (Engadget) 23/09/2011





Volunteer scientists discover two possible planets, tell NASA it missed a spot
Proving it's not all about edu-mah-cation, a group of casual star-gazers has stumbled upon what might well be a pair of new planets. Following on from gamers' success with complicated medical puzzles, an army of 40,000 online volunteer astronomy nerds signed up to the Planet Hunters project to help mine through NASA data. One of the possible planets they discovered is roughly two and a half times the size of Earth, while the other a whopping eight times bigger than this revolving ball of blue and green we call home. The project uses data from NASA's Keppler telescope, which registers fluctuations in brightness as objects pass in front of distant stars -- a setup that's helped scientists discover 1,235 potential alien planets in its first four months. Obviously, though, the technology isn't perfect, which is where the project's muggle volunteers (assisted by Oxford and University of Chicago researchers) come in. They've been combing through NASA's readings and are now sifting through the next 90 days of Keppler observations.



[Image credit: NASA]
Volunteer scientists discover two possible planets, tell NASA it missed a spot originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 22 Sep 2011 15:29:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Mango bumps NoDo, rolls the update train to Dell's Venue Pro
You've had a few months to get cozy with NoDo on the Venue Pro, but don't get too chummy -- Mango's on the way. An official blog post on Dell's site assures owners of the chunky WP7 slider that Microsoft's much anticipated OS update should be on its way before Autumn's end. Unlocked owners in the US, EMEA and India, in addition to locked handset owners on T-Mobile US and Cincinnati Bell will be treated to the tropical software sauce sometime in the next few weeks. Left out from this upgrade party are contracted device owners on AT&T that'll just have to wait for a future announcement. An official Mango rollout across all existing Redmond-sanctioned devices is already slated for the next two weeks anyway. Still, it's always nice to hear the news confirmed twice.
Mango bumps NoDo, rolls the update train to Dell's Venue Pro originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 22 Sep 2011 15:07:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink   |  sourceDell Corporate Blog  | Email this | Comments

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Facebook partners up to bring music, news and videos to your profile through Open Graph
Facebook's f8 developer conference is going on today, and Andy Samberg Mark Zuckerberg has just revealed another part of his master plan for the social network. Open Graph will now integrate many of your favorite news and music services, including Spotify, Rhapsody, Rdio and MOG onto your Facebook page with custom apps, and will also bring video from Vevo, Netflix, Hulu and many more. The media platform's already up and running, so you can see (and hear) the results of Mark's labor right now.



Update: Unfortunately for Facebook users in the US, Netflix has confirmed that its Facebook integration will only be available in Canada and Latin America initially, due to a US law that "creates some confusion over our ability to allow U.S. members to share what they watch." That doesn't apply to the music services, however, and you can get an idea how Spotify will work in the video after the break. Even TiVo's gotten in on the action, announcing new sharing buttons for its iPhone and iPad mobile apps, although there's no direct DVR integration mentioned yet.
Continue reading Facebook partners up to bring music, news and videos to your profile through Open Graph
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Color abandons app independence for Facebook, hopes you'll pay someone a 'visit'
Color launched to a fair amount of fanfare back in March, and it's not surprising, really -- the company was spearheaded by Lala founder Bill Nguyen, with ten of millions in backing from some top venture capital firms. The hype surrounding the photo-sharing app didn't take long to die down, however -- over the past several months, we haven't heard much from the startup. Turns out the Color team was rethinking the project from ground up. The company used f8 this week to launch a new version of the app built entirely around Facebook. The new Color harnesses updates to the social Network's Open Graph protocol to introduce the concept of "visits," a social gesture that prompts a user to request a live video feed from a Facebook friend upon seeing an interesting photo in their feeds on the social network or in the iPhone / Android app. The brief video stream can be attended by multiple users, becoming something of a mini UStream built into Facebook. The new Color is currently in a closed testing phase, though interested parties can sign up to take part below.
Color abandons app independence for Facebook, hopes you'll pay someone a 'visit' originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 22 Sep 2011 13:57:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Facebook outs Timeline, gives your profile page a new outfit
Well, Mark's just unveiled Facebook's new look at his f8 keynote, and he's calling it Timeline. The idea is to make it easier to see what you want to see from your past, by placing a, surprise surprise, timeline on the right edge of your profile page that breaks down your content by year and month. It's a much more visual experience than Facebook's previous threads, and Timeline Views allow you to filter the content by photos, where you've been (courtesy of Bing maps innovation), and much more. You can also add apps, "likes", and all of your other content in neatly organized panes on your profile page to make it easier to "tell the story of your life" in the way you want to -- including the ability to go back and add stuff to your timeline after the fact, no flux capacitor required. Timeline's going live in beta immediately for some, and a broader roll-out will be happening over the next few weeks. Get ready people, Facebook's future is here.
Facebook outs Timeline, gives your profile page a new outfit originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 22 Sep 2011 13:38:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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We're live from Facebook's 2011 f8 developer conference! (video)
Oh yeah, we're here, live at the f8 developers conference in San Francisco, and we're going to give you a blow by blow of what's in store for all you Facebook-loving folks. The streets is talking and the rumor mill's churning at full bore about what we can expect, but Mark Zuckerberg's keynote is mere minutes away, and all will be revealed soon. So, check back here to get the scoop on all the new social-networking goodies as he dishes them out.



Update: And it's underway. Head on past the break for the live stream.
Continue reading We're live from Facebook's 2011 f8 developer conference! (video)
We're live from Facebook's 2011 f8 developer conference! (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 22 Sep 2011 12:54:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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iRoom iDock imounts your iPad to your iwall
One sure fire way to make sure you never lose your iPad? Stick the thing in your wall. Now available in North America from Bracketron, the iRoom iDock is a motorized dock for your Apple tablet that can be flush-mounted into your wall. Once connected to your power supply, the system's proximity sensor will open up when you're around to accept your tablet into its docky clutches, for some serious wall-charging action -- and if there's a power outage, the thing will open up automatically, so you can grab your slate back. The dock is available in landscape or portrait orientation and comes in black, aluminum or white -- or you can get a custom color to match your home's walls, because why not go all out with your wall-mounted iPad dock thing? Press release after the jump.
Continue reading iRoom iDock imounts your iPad to your iwall
iRoom iDock imounts your iPad to your iwall originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 22 Sep 2011 12:43:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink Mac News  |  sourceBracketron  | Email this | Comments

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Oracle amends complaint against Google to $2 billion, risks the wrath of Judge Alsup
Oracle Vs. Google
Oracle's damage claim against Google in it's battle over Java patents keeps inching downwards, but not nearly quick enough to please either Big G or Judge William Alsup. The Redwood Shores-based company initially sought $6.1 billion, but eventually lowered that to $2.6 billion. The judge responded by suggesting a far more modest $100 million starting point for a settlement and sent Oracle back to the drawing board. Well, the company amended its complaint, and is now asking for only $2 billion. Judge Alsup has grown noticeably more impatient with both sides as the suit has progressed towards trial, which is still scheduled for October. We can't wait to see what sort of outburst Oracle's latest move inspires in his honor -- we're expecting a flying gavel or two.
Permalink Mobile Burn  |  sourceBloomberg  | Email this | Comments

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Evoz Baby Monitor lets you spy on your kid from anywhere your iPhone gets a signal
Worried that your bundle of joy might get up to no good during your weekly Hatha class? Not with this monolith by his bedside, he won't. It's called the Evoz Baby Monitor and it takes its job very seriously. All you have to do is place this WiFi-enabled device next to Junior's crib, download Evoz' app on your iPhone and the monitor will automatically provide you with alerts (via text, e-mail or phone call) whenever your kid cries. Once you sync this watchdog with your phone, you can even use it to remotely listen in on your prince, just in case he utters his first words while you're out on the links. Best of all, the system isn't restricted to a fixed range and promises to work in any area where you've got cellular coverage -- whether that be in the backyard, at the gym, or at Child Protective Services. Evoz won't start shipping the Baby Monitor until October 4th, but gravely concerned parents can pre-order one now for $120, at the source link below. Otherwise, just crawl past the break for more information, in the full PR.
Continue reading Evoz Baby Monitor lets you spy on your kid from anywhere your iPhone gets a signal
Evoz Baby Monitor lets you spy on your kid from anywhere your iPhone gets a signal originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 22 Sep 2011 12:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Pantech Breakout now available to bring LTE to the light-walleted
An LTE handset on Verizon's network that doesn't feature a 4.3-inch display or a price tag that starts with a two or a three? Why, that would be the Pantech Breakout. The latest 4G phone on Big Red has finally been welcomed into the fold, available and ready to persuade more people to experience blazing-fast mobile broadband without frantically digging themselves out of debt. To recap, the Breakout features Android 2.3, a 1GHz single-core CPU and 512MB of RAM, 5 megapixel rear camera accompanied by a VGA front-facing cam and 720p HD video capture, a 4-inch WVGA (800 x 480) TFT LCD and a 1,500mAh juicepack. Worth a Benjamin? You make the call.
Pantech Breakout now available to bring LTE to the light-walleted originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 22 Sep 2011 11:36:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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RED CEO teases 4K 3D laser projector, bound for theaters and (millionaires') homes
Red LogoWe all love RED -- the company puts out some of the best pro-quality digital video cameras on the market. But, what about the other side of that equation? All of that 4K footage is worthless without something to watch it on. CEO Jim Jannard, notorious for his ability to build hype and mystery, took to the REDUser Forums to tease some details about an upcoming 4K, 3D laser projection system that will be targeted at both homes (presumably well off ones) and theaters. Details about the projector are still scarce, but we do know it won't be using TI's 4K DLP chip, and that it will rely on passive 3D tech rather than active, which Jannard said "landed in the La Brea Tar Pits." The image is apparently so bright and clear that it left Stephen Pizzo, co-founder Element Technica, "speechless." We just have one question: when can we expect our review unit?
RED CEO teases 4K 3D laser projector, bound for theaters and (millionaires') homes originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 22 Sep 2011 11:12:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink This is my next, SlashGear  |  sourceREDUser Forum  | Email this | Comments

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QNX shows off its versatility, powers OnStar accessories as well as floundering tablets
OnStar
Back in April of 2010, RIM snatched up a little known property called QNX, which primarily powered in-car infotainment systems. As we all know, that little OS eventually became the platform on which the PlayBook was built -- but QNX hasn't left the dashboard behind completely. Turns out the software inside OnStar's FMV, which went on sale in July, is actually QNX's Neutrino RTOS. Why are we only finding out about it now? Who knows, but maybe there's some sweet BlackBerry and OnStar integration coming once RIM puts QNX in phones. Check out the PR after the break.
Continue reading QNX shows off its versatility, powers OnStar accessories as well as floundering tablets
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Virtu-LIMB lets prospective patients take upgraded Touch Bionics hand for a spin
It looks like Touch Bionics is bringing the classic "try before you buy" racket to the world of bionic hands. Say hello to the Virtu-LIMB, a simulation and training setup for myoelectric upper limb prostheses. This little yellow dome tethers to a patient's arm and transmits their myoelectric signals to a nearby computer via Bluetooth -- the data is then used to either control an i-LIMB Ultra prosthetic hand or, failing that, a PC simulation of one. The rig was shown at the American Orthotic & Prosthetic Association National Assembly this week, and can be used to help clinicians fine-tune prostheses for their patients, train patients to manipulate their bionic digits, or even demonstrate the Touch Bionics' i-LIMB to a potential user. The i-LIMB Ultra itself is an upgraded replacement for the outfit's i-LIMB Pulse, featuring a new variable digit-by-digit grip mode, increased flexibility, extended battery life (and low battery audio warning), and the ability to create custom gestures. The new unit even returns to a natural resting state after a period of inactivity, keeping the devil out of your idle hands.
Virtu-LIMB lets prospective patients take upgraded Touch Bionics hand for a spin originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 22 Sep 2011 10:23:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink CNET  |  sourceTouch Bionics  | Email this | Comments

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OpenMobile demos ACL for MeeGo, promises 100 percent compatibility with Android apps (video)
OpenMobile is a new company on the application compatibility scene whose primary product, the Application Compatibility Layer, promises to bring Android's large volume of apps to smaller platforms. In the following video, ACL is shown running on MeeGo, where the creators promise full compatibility with every Android app -- without the need for developer modification -- by leveraging Google's runtime environment and Dalvik VM. While support for Intel and Nokia's misbegotten lovechild is first out the door (along with Linux itself), the company plans to introduce similar versions for Bada, QNX, Symbian, WebOS and Windows. Like its competitor, Alien Dalvik, OpenMobile is positioning its Application Compatibility Layer to OEM manufacturers rather than consumers. Unfortunately, this eliminates any hope you might've had for installing Hanging with Friends on that N9 you've pre-ordered -- unless OpenMobile's able to convince the folks in Espoo with a mighty good sales pitch, anyway.



[Thanks, Mikko]
Continue reading OpenMobile demos ACL for MeeGo, promises 100 percent compatibility with Android apps (video)
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HTC strikes Dropbox deal, will offer 5GB free on Sense 3.5 phones
HTC has now launched itself into the clouds, confirming that its latest Android phones will get an extra 3GB of storage with Dropbox. According to Pocket-Lint, the extra space will extend to all HTC devices running Sense 3.5, which at the moment means it's limited to the forthcoming HTC Rhyme. We probably won't see the Dropbox deal extend to HTC's Windows Phones though -- Microsoft reckons it has the whole file-syncing thing covered.
HTC strikes Dropbox deal, will offer 5GB free on Sense 3.5 phones originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 22 Sep 2011 09:35:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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'Mommy Tummy' simulator takes you from normal to pregnant in two minutes (video)
You can test drive a car before buying it, so why not take the same approach to pregnancy? Such is the idea, apparently, behind the "Mommy Tummy" -- a system that gives women (or men) a taste of what it would feel like to have a bun in the oven, even if they haven't received any lovin'. Developed by researchers at Japan's Kanagawa Institute of Technology, this simulator invites users to don a jacket replete with rubber balloons, vibrators, a water bag and other things you'd expect to find in Buffalo Bill's basement. Once strapped on, the jacket's midsection gradually expands as it swells with warm water funneled in from an adjacent tank, resulting in an immaculately conceived baby bump. A compressor, meanwhile, slowly augments the jacket's chest area, while a separate array of balloons rapidly inflate and deflate, thereby mimicking the kicking and side-to-side movements of a real-life fetus. KIRF mothers can monitor their KIRF baby's vital signs on a monitor, though they'll have to pay close attention. Unlike real pregnancies, the Mommy Tummy's gestation period lasts a merciful two minutes, giving your boyfriend just enough time to formulate a coherent response. Must-see video footage after the break.



Update: Turns out our bros at Joystiq got some hands-on time with this bundle of joy at TGS. Check it out.


[Image courtesy of Toutlecine.com]
Continue reading 'Mommy Tummy' simulator takes you from normal to pregnant in two minutes (video)
'Mommy Tummy' simulator takes you from normal to pregnant in two minutes (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 22 Sep 2011 09:12:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Two megapixel mini-camera measures in at under a cubic inch, weighs under an ounce
Remember that one-inch Chobi Cam One spotted in Japan earlier this year? Well, its tiny self has now reappeared on US shores, ready to be lost in a sofa or coat pocket near you. Unimaginatively titled "The World's Smallest Camera," it's priced at $99.95 and packs a petite, two megapixel autofocus sensor capable of recording VGA video. Resembling a Lego Man's DSLR, storage is done on a microSD card, though you're more likely to run out of battery juice than space -- the battery will give a maximum of 30 minutes use from one hour's charge. "The world's smallest" are words we hear a lot at Engadget, and we're inclined to agree with CNET that JTT's previous camera, the Chobi Cam, is actually smaller by volume. The Chobi Cam One arrived with extra detachable lenses, but there's no word yet on whether these add-ons will appear in Hammacher Sclemmer's online store -- not that we really want to be lugging around a whole bunch of tiny lenses with us.
Continue reading Two megapixel mini-camera measures in at under a cubic inch, weighs under an ounce
Two megapixel mini-camera measures in at under a cubic inch, weighs under an ounce originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 22 Sep 2011 08:48:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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LG Optimus Hub (aka Univa / Optimus Two) earns its stripes at the FCC
Okay, we'll totally admit that we've got something of a phone crush on LG's successor to the Optimus One lineup. Sure, it hasn't debuted in the States, and its specs already look a bit tired, but there's tons of goodwill attached to this family of devices. Should LG properly execute, the handset promises to be an iterative improvement for all smartphone buyers that need to save some coin. Now this sexy creation is making its way though the FCC, and while it's difficult to tell whether this is an international model or is bound for our domestic shores, it's easy to realize that we're one step closer to its much anticipated release. After a bit of digging, we can tell you the phone supports the 1900 and 850MHz bands, which is common to networks such as AT&T, Bell, Telus and Rogers. With all the names being tossed around, it'll be interesting to see how the individual carriers choose to brand these devices, but it seems that we won't have to wait much longer for those details.
LG Optimus Hub (aka Univa / Optimus Two) earns its stripes at the FCC originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 22 Sep 2011 08:24:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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HTC Sensation XE with Beats Audio -- we go ears-on (video)
Guess who's back? HTC let us play with the new and improved Sensation XE in London last night and we even managed to find a secluded spot to bop our heads to the integrated Beats Audio and packaged YourBeats headphones. The XE is very similar to the original 4.3-inch flagship Sensation in terms of hardware, except there's a 300MHz clock-speed bump to 1.5GHz, a slightly larger 1750mAh battery and also a packaged 16GB (instead of 8GB) microSD card. But aside from that, we expect it'll be the audio credentials and related marketing hype that will attract most attention when the device reaches shelves later this month. Current Sensation owners probably won't even consider the upgrade unless they're chronic Dr. Dre fans, but what about those with more sticky icky icky devices? Should they be enticed by all the fuss? Click past the break if you think rap's changed and you want know how we feel about it.

Gallery: HTC Sensation XE hands-on
Continue reading HTC Sensation XE with Beats Audio -- we go ears-on (video)
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HTC Sensation XE with Beats Audio -- we go ears-on (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 22 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Install Windows 8 onto your HTC Shift today, give it a reason to wake up in the morning (video)


If you've got an HTC Shift sitting around that's collecting dust and not doing much else, it could find a new lease on life with the revelation of its (very unofficial) support for Windows 8. Like they did for Mac OS X previously, the folks at xda-developers have shoehorned Microsoft's latest Developer Preview OS onto the dejected UMPC, and so long as you've got a bit of spare time, the right equipment and are good at following instructions, you can too. All the basic driver support appears to be in order, including support for video acceleration, the touchscreen and WiFi. Granted, you should keep in mind you'll be installing pre-release software on unsupported hardware, but isn't that half the fun? There's a video after the break (heads-up: it's in French), and if you're looking to get started right away, you'll find a full list of instructions in the source below.



[Thanks, M.]
Continue reading Install Windows 8 onto your HTC Shift today, give it a reason to wake up in the morning (video)
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Microbial fuel cell produces hydrogen from wastewater without wasting energy
Back in 2005, Bruce Logan and his team of Penn State researchers developed a microbial fuel cell capable of converting poop into power. Now, Logan has refined his system to the point where it can produce hydrogen from wastewater or biodegradable organic materials without using a drop of grid electricity, and without emitting even a hint of carbon dioxide. His approach, outlined in the September 19th issue of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, involves something known as reverse-electrodialysis (RED) -- a process that harvests energy from the ionic discrepancy between fresh and salt water. Logan's bacterial hydrolysis cell (pictured left) features a so-called RED stack that's comprised of alternating positive and negative ion exchange membranes, which it uses to split water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen. Normally, this process would involve about 25 pairs of membranes, but by using RED technology in conjunction with electricity-producing exoelectrogenic bacteria, Penn State's team was able to extract hydrogen with just five membrane pairs. All told, Logan's cells proved to be about 58 to 64 percent energy efficient, while producing between 0.8 to 1.6 cubic meters of hydrogen for every cubic meter of liquid that passed through the system. The researchers' results show that only one percent of that energy was used to pump water through the cells, which are completely carbon neutral, as well. According to Logan, this breakthrough demonstrates that "pure hydrogen gas can efficiently be produced from virtually limitless supplies of seawater and river water and biodegradable organic matter." Somewhere, the US Navy is taking scrupulous notes. Full PR after the break.



[Image courtesy of Penn State / Bruce Logan]
Continue reading Microbial fuel cell produces hydrogen from wastewater without wasting energy
Microbial fuel cell produces hydrogen from wastewater without wasting energy originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 22 Sep 2011 07:01:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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4G variant of HTC's Radar spotted in the wild, flying a magenta flag
The Radar's arrival in this world was overshadowed by the massive Titan released on the same day. But if a batch of spy shots sent to TmoNews is to be believed, then this mid-specced 3.8-inch Windows Phone could be about to get some much needed 4G pep on T-Mobile's network. The photos also reveal plenty of magenta branding, Tango video calling and of course Mango running under the hood. Further corroboration probably won't come til we detect an HSPA+ Radar at the FCC, but with some decent 6/7Mbps real-world download speeds and hopefully some mobile hotspot action this could well be a device worth having.
4G variant of HTC's Radar spotted in the wild, flying a magenta flag originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 22 Sep 2011 06:03:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Henry Tirri appointed CTO of Nokia, permanently replacing Rich Green
Not much of a surprise here, but today it finally becomes official: Henry Tirri has been appointed CTO of Nokia, nearly four months after assuming the position on a temporary basis. Tirri, who joined the company in 2004 and previously served as head of its research center, will permanently replace former CTO Rich Green, who took an indefinite leave of absence from Espoo back in June, citing "personal reasons." At the time, some local media outlets reported that Green's absence would be permanent, due to disagreements over CEO Stephen Elop's smartphone OS strategy. Reportedly a one-time Meego advocate, Green will now return to the US to "pursue new opportunities" and, as of today, is no longer a member of the Nokia Leadership Team. Tirri, meanwhile, will be responsible for designing "Nokia's technology agenda both now and in the future, and driving core innovation to enable business development opportunities." We'll have to wait and see where that path leads, but you can find more details about the appointment in the full press release, after the break.
Continue reading Henry Tirri appointed CTO of Nokia, permanently replacing Rich Green
Henry Tirri appointed CTO of Nokia, permanently replacing Rich Green originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 22 Sep 2011 05:13:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Nokia's FourSquare-enabled vending machine offers free smartphones, Butterfingers (video)



Sure, it's one thing to hit up the vending machine at work to get your Doritos fix, but free gifts? That's exactly what Nokia's doing at the Skypark in Glasgow for the city's Social Media Week with the help of 1000heads. Dubbed the "Nokia Gift Machine," it allows event attendees to obtain one free gift per day including candy from the US of A, Nokia accessories and even smartphones for a lucky few. All it takes is a quick FourSquare check-in with #NokiaConnects followed by a share over Twitter, and a goodie-filled tube will be yours for the taking. It'll only be in place until the 23rd, so if you're there and haven't given it whirl, consider this a quick heads-up from your friends at Engadget. Plus, who doesn't love getting awesome stuff for free? Exactly. Full details in the PR past the break.
Continue reading Nokia's FourSquare-enabled vending machine offers free smartphones, Butterfingers (video)
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UK gets first hydrogen refueling station, Honda lot graciously plays host
UK-based treehuggers can bust out the internet high fives now. Merry ol' Swindon just got the British isles' first ever commercial hydrogen refueling station. Part of a collaborative effort between industrial gas company BOC (which built and maintains the pumps), the Forward Swindon economic initiative and Honda, owners can roll their clean energy machines into the automaker's manufacturing lot for a fill-up. BOC's hoping the experience, which reportedly looks and functions much like a traditional gas station, will serve as an example of the private - public partnerships required to rollout infrastructure for alternative energy adoption. So, it's good news for the fuel cell-equipped handful of you cruising about Swindon town, or just passing through on a 'round the world tour. Of course, no official word as to whether Tilda Swinton plans to officiate the opening. Official PR after the break.
Continue reading UK gets first hydrogen refueling station, Honda lot graciously plays host
UK gets first hydrogen refueling station, Honda lot graciously plays host originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 22 Sep 2011 03:11:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Microsoft boots Windows Phone manager following mini-review of Nokia's Mango handset
The man who previously led the development of IE Mobile for Windows Phone is no longer with Microsoft, whose termination followed a series of tweets regarding one of Nokia's unreleased Mango handsets. A representative of Ballmer & Co. has confirmed to us "that Joe Marini no longer works at Microsoft," and while the company refuses to discuss the details of his termination, you be the judge. In his first tweet, Mr. Marini expressed glowing enthusiasm for the device, having called it one of Nokia's slickest ever. Then, however, he went on to give the phone an "8" (to summarize his 144 character review), criticize the camera as being good, but not great, and bemoan its screen size. Oops. If anything, unbridled enthusiasm is encouraged at Microsoft (just think back to Steve Ballmer's monkey dance if you had any doubt), but when sheer excitement erupts into stunning frankness regarding unreleased products from partner companies, perhaps this ex-Microsoftee should have kept his thoughts offline. We wish you luck, Joe, but next time, just remember that review scores are a relic of the past. Instead, just let the words speak for themselves.
Permalink WPCentral, TNW, GeekWire  |  sourceTwitter  | Email this | Comments

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Pioneer's new DJM-250 budget mixer tries not to fade your balance
Sure, two turntables and a microphone might be where it's at, but you'll only get so far before you wish you had a mixer plonked in the middle. Makers of high end DJ finery, Pioneer, has just added a member to its exhaustive family, the DJM-250, and the sweetest sound it makes is the chuckle of a happy bank manager. Landing in at just a dollar shy of $400, the aforesaid outfit reckons it's the cheapest two-channel mixer on the market that boasts channel filters, for those silky smooth transitions. Aside from those, you'll enjoy up to eight inputs and club-system friendly balanced XLR outs, and a choice of two colors -- black and white! A December release date means it's likely to find it's way into a few Christmas stockings, though fans of white will have to wait just a little longer. Give the PR a bounce or watch the promo video after the break for more.
Continue reading Pioneer's new DJM-250 budget mixer tries not to fade your balance
Pioneer's new DJM-250 budget mixer tries not to fade your balance originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 22 Sep 2011 01:14:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink   |  sourcePioneer (US), (UK)  | Email this | Comments

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OCZ debuts Synapse Cache Series SSDs to compensate for your HDD's shortcomings
This really shouldn't come as much of a surprise, given some of OCZ's other offerings, but the company has outed its Synapse Cache SSDs so you don't have to suffer the speed limitations inherent in spinning disk storage. These 2.5-inch, 6 GB/s SATA drives come in 64 and 128GB flavors, and do the dual drive dance with your HDD of choice using the firms' Dataplex caching software. That nifty bit of code hastens data retrieval by dynamically managing your data, placing frequently used info on the speedy SSD, and shoving the rest on your capacious, cheap-as-chips HDD. When can you up your storage speed limit and how much will it cost? OCZ's not telling, but the drive's full performance specs can be found in the PR and source below.
Continue reading OCZ debuts Synapse Cache Series SSDs to compensate for your HDD's shortcomings
OCZ debuts Synapse Cache Series SSDs to compensate for your HDD's shortcomings originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 22 Sep 2011 00:23:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink   |  sourceOCZ  | Email this | Comments

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Splashtop Remote Desktop now available for Mac OS X, costs but $10
Not content with creating the possibility of (emulated) Wii gaming on Android tablets, Splashtop continues to spread itself across pretty much anything with a screen, with a Mac-friendly version available now at the Mac App Store. This release allows both Mac OS X 10.6 and Windows to hold hands across the great OS divide -- nice to see Splashtop is still beavering away at its "Bridge to Anywhere." Desktop access to both your most intimate files and programs -- through both local networks and the internet at large -- are but a $9.99 payment away.
Continue reading Splashtop Remote Desktop now available for Mac OS X, costs but $10
Splashtop Remote Desktop now available for Mac OS X, costs but $10 originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 21 Sep 2011 23:18:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink   |  sourceSplashtop, Mac App Store  | Email this | Comments

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LG Optimus EX bound for South Korea, still won't pay alimony
Despite its rather curious name, the LG Optimus EX (aka the LG SU-880) just might be your soulmate -- provided you live in South Korea. The 9.5mm device appears ready to take SK Telecom by storm with a 1.2GHz dual-core CPU (with no indication of make or model), Android 2.3, 4-inch WVGA TFT-LCD display and five megapixel camera; it's also said to be coming in black and white varieties. We admit, it's not the type of spec sheet that induces a large amount of salivation, but we imagine many will be seduced by the new device -- if the price is right, that is. No word on pricing or availability yet, but we'll hopefully know more once we get officially introduced to the new handset.
LG Optimus EX bound for South Korea, still won't pay alimony originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 21 Sep 2011 22:36:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink PocketNow, MovePlayer (translated)  |  sourcePopboy (translated)  | Email this | Comments

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OnLive's cloud rolls across the pond, UK gamers now welcome
OnLive promised that it was coming, and the company has now brought its cloud-based gaming service to the UK right on schedule. That, of course, is identical to the service elsewhere, which lets you play a variety of PC games on any supported platform, including OnLive's own game system. UK gamers can also take advantage of a range of promotions coinciding with the launch, including their first OnLive PlayPass Game for £1 (up to a £39.99 value), and a free OnLive Game System to those attending the Eurogamer Expo (while quantities last, of course). Those interested can sign up and start playing right now at the link below.
Continue reading OnLive's cloud rolls across the pond, UK gamers now welcome
OnLive's cloud rolls across the pond, UK gamers now welcome originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 21 Sep 2011 21:51:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink   |  sourceOnLive  | Email this | Comments

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DirecTV iPad app upgrade adds easy multiroom DVR control, HDUI compatibility
A new update for DirecTV's official iPad app just showed up in iTunes, adding the ability to manage recordings on all of your connected HD DVRs. As seen in the screenshot above, v1.2.6 ties into the company's whole home DVR setup by letting a user control one box directly, then browse recordings stored elsewhere and play them in the room in the room where they are. Also new is the ability to delete DVR'd shows straight from the iPad, and readers tell us that after the upgrade the app has begun working with the revamped HDUI beta that DirecTV started testing a couple of weeks ago. Hit the source link below to grab it for yourself from iTunes.



[Thanks, SV & Stuart]
DirecTV iPad app upgrade adds easy multiroom DVR control, HDUI compatibility originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 21 Sep 2011 21:27:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink   |  sourceiTunes  | Email this | Comments

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Samsung SHV-E120L comes out of the development dark, is the Xtina to LG's Britney
Brothers from another mobile mother, or just a case of copycat syndrome? We'll let you be the judge, but from the looks of this latest leak, Samsung's SHV-E120L could be sharing some of the LG LU6200's special spec sauce. Outed over on Cetizen and iNews24, the full breakdown of the device's innards point to a dual-core 1.5GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon processor, 4.7-inch 1280 x 720 HD display, 2 megapixel front-facing / 8 megapixel rear camera, 1GB RAM, 16GB of onboard storage, WiFi, Bluetooth and NFC. We've seen conflicting reports as to the exact version of Gingerbread that'll ship on the phone, with Android 2.3.5 in the running. As for the handset's radios, its purported MDM9600 Gobi chipset indicates tri-mode LTE, HSPA and CDMA compatibility. Sammy's super-sized smartphone could hit South Korea later this month, or in early October -- if the passable English in that Google translation can be believed.
Samsung SHV-E120L comes out of the development dark, is the Xtina to LG's Britney originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 21 Sep 2011 20:37:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink PocketNow  |  sourceCetizen (Translated), iNews24 (Translated)  | Email this | Comments

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In case you didn't know, PS Vita will play nice with PSP in ad-hoc mode
Check out this tasty morsel of PS Vita info making the rounds: you'll be able to face your PSP-totin' friends via ad-hoc mode with games you've snagged from the PS Store (so long as the title supports it). We must've been so enamored by those vibrant PS Vitas at TGS that we missed this sweet bite courtesy of Sony PlayStation Japan. Sure, it doesn't kill the sting of its three to five hour battery life, but hey, we'll just consider it another justification for picking up the hot little number once it hits shelves.
In case you didn't know, PS Vita will play nice with PSP in ad-hoc mode originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 21 Sep 2011 19:56:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink Technabob, Geeky Gadgets, Siliconera  |  sourcePlaystation Japan (Translated)  | Email this | Comments

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Windows 8 ditches '80s BIOS boot for streamline UEFI
Every time we reboot our computers, that scrolling code takes us right back to the days of War Games and Tab. Bringing us into the 21st century, Microsoft has decided to ditch the old boot by beautifying the whole experience with a graphical menu. Windows 8 will shift from the standard fugly BIOS system to a Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) -- giving users a high resolution logo and a graphical menu to gaze upon while powering up their PC. Besides just looking better, the menu lets you boot to a different disc, OS or USB drive using pretty pictures and words as prompts. If you're into a little self-inflicted eye torture, you can always pull up the command prompt menu from nightmares past. Check out the throwback video tribute to the computers of yesteryear after the break.



Update: Just to clarify, Microsoft isn't actually building flashing mobos, but it's pushing towards UEFI to achieve "significantly richer capabilities" while booting.

Update: Microsoft isn't actually building flashing mobos, but it's using its considerable industry weight to push manufacturers towards UEFI to achieve "significantly richer capabilities" while booting.
Continue reading Windows 8 ditches '80s BIOS boot for streamline UEFI
Windows 8 ditches '80s BIOS boot for streamline UEFI originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 21 Sep 2011 19:33:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink Gizmodo  |  sourceMSDN  | Email this | Comments

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'Monster Cat' 30,472-core supercomputer can be yours for $1,279 an hour
Nicknamed after the magical "Nekomata" cat of Japanese nightmares, Cycle Computing's monstrous new supercomputer can now be yours to rent for the low price of $1,279 an hour. By fusing together the face-melting power of 3,809 eight-core Amazon AWS Elastic Computer 2s, the company was able to create the world's 30th fastest computer with 30,472 processor cores and 27TB of memory -- primarily used for complex modeling rather than Facebooking. Components of the beast hide out in three of Amazon's EC2 data center lairs located in California, Virginia and Ireland, and communicate using HTTPS and SSH encrypted with AES-256 to keep its secrets safe and secure. Compared to the company's previous 10,000-core offering ($1,060 / hour), the new version is far more powerful and minimally more expensive, mostly because it uses spot instances (where customers bid on unused EC2 capacity) rather than pricier reserved instances. Good on you Cycle Computing, not everyone has access to a Jeopardy champ.
'Monster Cat' 30,472-core supercomputer can be yours for $1,279 an hour originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 21 Sep 2011 19:11:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink Extreme Tech  |  sourceCycle Computing  | Email this | Comments

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Samsung releases AT&T Galaxy S II kernel source far in advance of the phone's release


Whoever's cranking out the kernel source in Samsung's headquarters has some serious aspirations. Cooking it up for the Galaxy S II Epic 4G Touch the day it was released was a rather snappy process, but the manufacturer's managed to one-up even itself by pushing out AT&T's version a full week and a half early. Talk about an exciting deal for developers, who now have a sizable head start ahead of the Galaxy S II's October 2nd launch. Not too shabby, right? Let's see exactly what those with the know-how can build in the meantime -- we predict customization options aplenty by the time the phone's officially stocked on store shelves. How early can we expect to see the kernel for T-Mobile's Galaxy S II? Hard to say, but for now you can grab the kernel source at... well, the source below.
Permalink AndroidCentral  |  sourceSamsung  | Email this | Comments

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Sprint reportedly capping its mobile hotspot plans October 2nd
If Sprint's myriad policy changes are part of the company's strategy update, perhaps we're not looking forward to October 7th's event after all. The latest bout in a series of gut-punching cost-cutting moves is the elimination of "unlimited" in the Now Network's $30 mobile hotspot add-on; according to a leaked employee memo uncovered by SprintFeed, October 2nd is the dreadful date in which all users who have the add-on (sorry Sprintsters, there's no grandfathering) will be given a limit of 5GB, and any overage will be charged five cents per MB. It appears that only phones will be affected, leaving tableteurs safe for now. So if you're currently using the hotspot feature, enjoy the last few solid days of sweet downloading while you can.



Update: To clarify, this change will only be affecting users who have the mobile hotspot add-on; as the screenshot confirms, on-phone data use (as well as dedicated mobile broadband packages) will remain unlimited.
Sprint reportedly capping its mobile hotspot plans October 2nd originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 21 Sep 2011 18:26:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink   |  sourceSprintFeed  | Email this | Comments

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Sony's Tablet S goes under the knife, reveals secrets lurking within
With the Tablet S on sale, it was really only a matter of time before its inevitable teardown, and here to fill our need for splayed circuity is one from TechRepublic. Seeing as most Honeycomb tablets have similar internals, there aren't too many surprises to be had, but the outfit did curiously find a hole for a cellular modem, as well as an easy to replace battery and an internal plastic frame that adds rigidity (pictured above). If you're ready for 74 photos of the slate being torn asunder from every possible angle, a source link awaits you below -- if not, can we humbly recommend our preview?



[Thanks, Bervick]
Sony's Tablet S goes under the knife, reveals secrets lurking within originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 21 Sep 2011 18:05:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink   |  sourceTechRepublic  | Email this | Comments

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Micron adds self-encryption to RealSSD C400, protects plans for world domination from prying eyes
Micron RealSSD C400 SED
Micron may think it's simply "bolstering user security" but, if you ask us, it seems like the company is providing the machines with a tool to protect their plans for insurrection. The RealSSD C400 SED has a special, security-focused firmware and hardware-based AES-256-bit encryption that keeps all of its precious data safe from prying eyes. The hardware self-encryption solution also frees up a computer's processor to focus on more important tasks (like planing the enslavement of mankind), rather than waste precious resources on protecting sensitive information. The C400 SED will ship sometime during Q4 in 128GB, 256GB and 512GB varieties. Price has yet to be announced, but we're not sure that Skynet really cares what the cost is. After all, it can just tell Micron's order-processing system to send a bunch out free of charge.
Continue reading Micron adds self-encryption to RealSSD C400, protects plans for world domination from prying eyes
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