Engadget

M3 Android NFC Communicator mixes something old, something new for prepaid subs

Joseph Volpe — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 20:16:00 EDT

Malaysia may not be on the tip of anyone's tongue when wireless comes to mind, but that's not stopping local outfit DMD Mobile from attempting to make its mark. Set for an official unveiling at next week's Mobile World Congress, the M3 Android NFC Communicator is the outfit's clumsily titled stab at the prepaid market in South Asia and the Middle East. The touchscreen handset, to be available in both 2.6-inch portrait QWERTY and 3.2-inch candybar form factors, comes loaded up with a surprising mix of last- and current-gen specs: 650Mhz single-core CPU running a skinned version of Gingerbread 2.3.5, support for dual-band HSPA+ (850 / 2100MHz) and quadband GSM, VGA front-facing / 3MP rear cameras, Bluetooth 4.0, WiFi and NFC. Sure, it's not the most thrilling of forward-looking devices to surface this year, but priced at RM500 (that's about US$165), it's certainly more of a great deal than it is bargain bin entry. Hit up the source below for additional info on this low-hanging mobile fruit.

M3 Android NFC Communicator mixes something old, something new for prepaid subs originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 20:16:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink The Star | DMD Mobile | Email this | Comments

Google Docs presentations slides out of preview, adds import and comment options (video)

Joseph Volpe — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 15:32:00 EDT

The slide-making masses have spoken and Google's dutifully listened. After launching presentations for Docs as a preview last October, the search giant's making that editor ready for prime time with a few user-suggested tweaks in tow. In addition to the recently introduced slew of transitions, themes, tables and collaborative options, Mountain View's now tossing in the ability to make, edit and resolve comments, send email notifications, as well as control read / write privileges for outside users. And don't worry about your old documents getting lost in the shuffle; a new import setting will enable those visual gems to benefit from this new facelift. Check out the source below for a fuller walk-through or catch the instructional vid after the break.

Continue reading Google Docs presentations slides out of preview, adds import and comment options (video)

Google Docs presentations slides out of preview, adds import and comment options (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 15:32:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sony Mobile rebranding quietly begins, changes to roll out over the next month

Joseph Volpe — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 14:39:00 EDT

With the assimilation of Ericsson's wireless stake now neatly a footnote in its corporate history, Sony's moving on and making its newfound freedom known -- albeit quietly. According to a rep for the company, its first rebranding baby steps began just last night, with the former SonyEricsson portal now redirecting to SonyMobile.com. Other related properties, like its social networking extensions and various related digital properties, are also slated to make the transition throughout March, with further announcements planned for Mobile World Congress next week. We'll be there live in just a few days, so stay tuned. In the meanwhile, hit up the source below to see synergy at its finest.

[Thanks, Kevin]

Sony Mobile rebranding quietly begins, changes to roll out over the next month originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 14:39:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Pantech Element review

Joseph Volpe — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EDT

You've heard of singin' in the rain (and have likely seen the movie). You may have even attempted it once or twice, but tableting in the midst of a downpour? That doesn't exactly conjure the same whimsy and spontaneous dance numbers. Yet, Pantech's making such joyous, on-the-go content consumption possible with the aptly named Element. It's yet another addition to the growing stable of LTE devices propping up AT&T's newly expanded 4G fort. Rather than run the risk of this being seen as another garden-variety Honeycomb tablet, though, Pantech's imbued this guy with waterproofing.

Of course, that's not all this skinned Android slate's bringing to the party. With a dual-core 1.5GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon APQ8060 CPU complemented by 1GB RAM, a 1024 x 768 TFT XGA display and a healthy 6,400mAh battery, this impermeable tab stands on equal spec footing with its post-PC peers. At $299 on two-year contract, it's certainly priced to sell, but should you dish out the dollars for a middle-ground tablet from the likes of a lesser-known manufacturer? Does a limited and possibly frivolous imperviousness to water warrant your attention? Should you stash that plastic until Pantech confirms an ETA for that Ice Cream Sandwich upgrade? Find all this out and more after the break, as we force this 8-incher to brave the elements.

Gallery: Pantech Element review

Continue reading Pantech Element review

Pantech Element review originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 21 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Auraslate opens Android tablets up to developers, welcomes mischief

Joseph Volpe — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 04:29:00 EDT

HTC aside, not every manufacturer is willing, ready and committed to opening up its device portfolio to the idle hands of hackers. Which is why Auraslate, a recently launched start-up, is stepping in to fill that void, instituting a sea change in how devs translate their unsanctioned software concepts into actual end user products. To do this, the humble outfit's offering up 7- and 10-inch Android tablets that range in price from $139 to $270 and come loaded up with an ARM Cortex A9 CPU, 4GB storage and a Gorilla Glass-coated capacitive touchscreen. Prospective haxxors can choose between two configurations available on the site: an Advance Development Kit which includes a source code disk and a cheaper Novice option. For the money, you'll get that aforementioned hardware, peripherals (usb plug, power adapter), as well as access to Aura's forums and ROM refreshes, although ICS is limited to its top shelf Lifepad 1026. So if you're tired of damning the Man with every OEM-issued, security-patching update and just want to be left to your coding best, it might be wise to bask in this company's glow.

Auraslate opens Android tablets up to developers, welcomes mischief originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 17 Feb 2012 04:29:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink TechCrunch | Auraslate | Email this | Comments

Sony promo lets PS Vita, PS3 hold hands for cross-platform play, because sharing is caring

Joseph Volpe — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 16:11:00 EDT

Need another reason to cough up for that PS Vita? Well, Sony's attempting to sweeten the pot for existing PS3 owners with the launch of a promotional lure that'll make a trio of titles available for cross-platform play. Yes, that portable-to-console bridge has been attempted before and though it's always reeked more of gimmick than true killer feature, that's not stopping the electronics juggernaut from giving it the ol' college try. Gamers that download either Hustle Kings, WipEout 2048 or Ultimate Marvel vs Capcom 3 on the PlayStation Store will be able to transfer and play that content on both devices for the price of one. If you currently claim any of the above as your own, not to worry, you'll still be able to take part in the company's pan-PS content share. So, are you red E? Then hit up the source below for the extended deets.

Sony promo lets PS Vita, PS3 hold hands for cross-platform play, because sharing is caring originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 16 Feb 2012 16:11:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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EPFL's CleanSpace One: clearing up cosmic clutter (video)

Joseph Volpe — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 15:02:00 EDT

Where are Lone Starr and Barf when you need'em? Would that those two (fictional) interstellar handymen-for-hire were real, space agencies like Switzerland's own, could outsource the tricky and costly intergalactic housekeeping that's fast becoming a high-priority. Instead, the famously neutral country is investing 10 million Swiss francs (about $10.8 million USD) into the production of a new breed of satellites dedicated to the collection and destruction of orbital debris. The project, dubbed CleanSpace One, will tackle one of two Swiss-borne, celestial objects -- the SwissCube or Tiasat -- for its initial mission, slated for some time within the next three to five years. While our very own NASA has proposed the use of a laser to redirect these non-operational and potentially hazardous craft, the brains over at EPFL (Swiss Federal Institute for Technology) are in the process of developing a micro-electric propulsion system, in addition to a retrieval mechanism for the unit. So, what'll happen to both this outer space Rosie and her doomed cargo? Well, rather unfortunately, it's a suicide mission, as both are destined for burn-up on re-entry. Yes, it's a rather grim end to an otherwise noble voyage, but such is the price of our scientific spring cleaning.

Continue reading EPFL's CleanSpace One: clearing up cosmic clutter (video)

EPFL's CleanSpace One: clearing up cosmic clutter (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 16 Feb 2012 15:02:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink USA Today | EPFL | Email this | Comments

RIM to release BlackBerry PlayBook OS 2.0 on February 21st? (updated)

Joseph Volpe — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 14:02:00 EDT

By now, you've seen all that RIM's 2.0 software update for the PlayBook is prepared to give -- just not in your own hands. But that could all very well change if news of a February 21st release date, supposedly confirmed by the lips of Waterloo's own during an early morning webcast, prove true. According to BerryReview's sources, the roll out is purportedly scheduled for next Tuesday, falling neatly in line with earlier reports that it would hit users' slates sometime later this month. So, if you've been clinging to that understated tab and looking forward to an OS-future populated by a native email client, address book, BlackBerry Bridge enhancements and social networking integration, well, it appears your dreams are about to come true.

Update: Looks like the reports were too good to be true. A rep from RIM has clarified that while no specific date has yet been announced, the 2.0 update is still on track for a February release.

RIM to release BlackBerry PlayBook OS 2.0 on February 21st? (updated) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 16 Feb 2012 14:02:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink N4BB | BerryReview | Email this | Comments

Apple granted injunction in German patent suit, Motorola phones with slide-to-unlock at risk

Joseph Volpe — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 11:06:00 EDT

Apple scored a huge victory today in Munich's Regional Court where Judge Dr. Peter Guntz found Motorola's implementation of slide-to-unlock on smartphones to be in breach of Cupertino's patent holdings. The ruling has resulted in a permanent injunction that Apple could execute at will, forcing Moto to alter the UX it employs across its device portfolio in Deutschland. The case originally focused on three separate applications of this gesture tech -- two for phones, alone -- but for now, the one used on the Xoom has been deemed outside of Apple's purview. Naturally, both parties are expected to appeal this decision, with Apple gunning for a total victory on every derivation of patent EP1964022 and Motorola seeking to overturn the win. Nonetheless, this particular legal triumph could help to set a precedent for the company as it continues to rage an IP war against fellow mobile industry rivals.

Apple granted injunction in German patent suit, Motorola phones with slide-to-unlock at risk originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 16 Feb 2012 11:06:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | FOSS Patents | Email this | Comments

Ainovo Novo 7 Basic review

Joseph Volpe — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EDT

It's a world's first coming from a company you've never heard of -- if you live outside of China, anyway. Taking Google's newly minted OS and slipping it into an affordable chassis, Ainovo's Novo 7 Basic could very well be a sleeper hit among the tech-obsessed masses. Sure, it may lack the brand equity and tidy content ecosystems that are part and parcel of Amazon and Apple's offerings, but thanks to that $99 price, users may find themselves seduced by the temptation of Ice Cream Sandwich alone. Apart from a small fraternity of devices including the Galaxy Nexus and ASUS Transformer Prime, few devices have officially played host to Android 4.0, lending this 7-inch tab a distinct advantage over the more expensive, Gingerbread-packing Kindle Fire. With a 1GHz Ingenic JZ4770 mobile applications processor based on a MIPS XBurst CPU, an 800 x 480 LED display and VGA front-facing / 2-megapixel rear cameras, this no-frills slate could blaze a bargain trail past Bezos and Co. So, does it manage to hold its own against its well-known competitors? Or will all that corner-cutting reveal this low cost tablet to be just another below-the-bar offering? Follow on past the break as we deliver the answers to these and other burning questions.

Gallery: Ainovo Novo 7 Basic review

Continue reading Ainovo Novo 7 Basic review

Ainovo Novo 7 Basic review originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 14 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Motorola Droid 4 review

Joseph Volpe — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 20:30:00 EDT

Oh, how the mighty have fallen. For a phone that single-handedly resuscitated the business prospects of its parent company, gave a much-needed boost to Google's fledgling Android and finally added a compelling product to Verizon's lineup, the Droid can't get no respect. Initially billed as the anti-iPhone, the OG flagship embodied an aggressively tech for tech's sake design ethos, with its masculine, hard-edged build, geeky OS and Lucasfilm licensed moniker.

That was all once upon a time. Now, two years later and sucked of its disruptive significance, the only legacy remaining for the red-eyed Droid franchise is its brand equity and QWERTY slider appeal. Aside from BlackBerry addicts, most consumers appear none too chuffed to see those slide-out keypads become the stuff of mobile lore, and instead prefer those increasingly ubiquitous slabs (namely, of the 4.3-inch-and-up persuasion). So, where did it all go wrong? Why is the Droid 4, now imbued with LTE, getting the B-list treatment? Does a $200 price tag and a host of minor spec bumps (a 1.2GHz dual-core CPU, 1.3 megapixel front-facer and beefier 1,785mAh battery) merit another spin around the two-year contract pole? Head on past the break to see whether this former trailblazer can still do what its namesake robot supposedly does.

Gallery: Motorola Droid 4 review

Continue reading Motorola Droid 4 review

Motorola Droid 4 review originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 20:30:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nokia 801 adds one part Belle, one part polycarbonate body for 100 percent possibility

Joseph Volpe — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 11:07:00 EDT

See that up there? That slick-looking, Belle-operating beaut is most definitely not Nokia's rumored 801 handset. No, what you're looking at above is simply a mock-up based on recent rumors circling the web, which peg this 12 megapixel-toting unicorn as the successor to the N8 and 701. It's hard to tell which considering the supposed bits of borrowed specs and chassis conspire to blend the polycarbonate stylings of the Lumia 800 and N9 with a 1.4GHz processor, 512MB of RAM and a 4-inch ClearBlack AMOLED display. You might dismiss this gossamer whisper as a mere ghost of Espoo future, but before you do, keep in mind that it has Eldar Murtazin's backing. Sure, there are more concrete paths to credibility (an official announcement for one), but given the existence of the company's 603 -- a Lumia 710 with a Symbian heart -- he might be right on the euro.

Nokia 801 adds one part Belle, one part polycarbonate body for 100 percent possibility originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 11:07:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | @EldarMurtazin (Twitter), Smartphone Geeks | Email this | Comments

Glasses-free 3DeeScreen augments Windows 7 displays, lets Peter Gabriel get in your eyes

Joseph Volpe — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EDT

Glasses-free 3DTVs sporting 4K resolution don't exactly match up to the everyman's budget. Still, the tech needs to trickle down to the masses somehow and it appears Spatial View's keen to take up that three-dimensional, plebeian mantle. Available today, the outfit's inventively titled 3DeeScreen snaps onto 15.6-inch laptops of the Windows 7 variety to translate ordinary 2D images and video into autostereoscopic eye candy. And, unlike prevailing iterations that depend upon strict viewing zones, this ad hoc implementation can adjust to a viewer's position through the use of eye-tracking software, letting their zombified heads loll about while they tune in and drop out. Of course, if you choose to plunk down $130 for this visual pizzazz, you'll be jonesing for a library of compatible media. Good thing then the company's prepared to scratch that imaginary itch with a planned one-stop hub, dubbed 3DeeCentral, that'll offer up a curated mix of free and paid content. Need to know more? Then peruse the official presser below while you wonder how the other one percent lives.

Continue reading Glasses-free 3DeeScreen augments Windows 7 displays, lets Peter Gabriel get in your eyes

Glasses-free 3DeeScreen augments Windows 7 displays, lets Peter Gabriel get in your eyes originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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RIM wrecks its own devices, so you don't have to (video)

Joseph Volpe — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 02:47:00 EDT

Bend, drown, drop and zap? No, that's not your mnemonic device for surviving a fire, it's actually RIM's protocol for destroying their own products. In a trio of behind-the-scenes videos released today, the company's pulled back the curtain on its Hardware Support Lab's process, giving users a peek at the rigorous testing involved with any of its pre-market releases. Designed to keep that pricey kit functioning in top form, these various tests replicate everyday foibles, so when you actually do drop your phone in the toilet, it'll (hopefully) still work. Wondering what sort of travails and pitfalls have been perpetrated upon Waterloo's own portfolio of gadgets? For starters, there's something called a "Moisture Ingress Test" which gauges the quality of a device's seal by dropping it into dyed water -- repeatedly. Or a series of durability tests, that simulate the crushing weight of your posterior upon a defenseless BlackBerry, amongst other potentially embarrassing scenarios. It's the stuff of standard gadget abuse, as well as a panacea for the worries of the accident prone. Click on past the break below to engage in a brief bit of rubbernecking.

Continue reading RIM wrecks its own devices, so you don't have to (video)

RIM wrecks its own devices, so you don't have to (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 02:47:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink MobileSyrup | BlackBerry blog | Email this | Comments

Toshiba Satellite U840 goes official for Australia, still waiting on its US passport

Joseph Volpe — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 19:41:00 EDT

While Toshiba's stateside reps had us convinced its 14-inch Ultrabook wouldn't see the light of day until sometime in June, that message of withholding apparently didn't make it Down Under. Outed by its Australian arm today, that would-be Portege is actually the company's Satellite U840. We already knew the electronics giant had intended on shuffling this Windows 7 machine out under that brand umbrella back at CES, but now we have a $1,500 AUD (about $1,608 USD) price tag to go with a list of confirmed specs. Officially on deck for this aluminum-bodied laptop are an Intel Core i5-2467M processor and HD Graphics 3000 GPU, 720p-capable 1366 x 768 LED display, 8GB of DDR3 RAM, 320GB of storage, in addition to ports for HDMI, mic, headphone and USB (1x USB 3.0 and 2x USB 2.0). We still don't know much about the capacity of the six cell battery powering this svelte notebook entry or a concrete landing date for that matter. But from the looks of this Aussie product page, that release is creeping mighty close.

Toshiba Satellite U840 goes official for Australia, still waiting on its US passport originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 19:41:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink Ultrabook News | Toshiba Australia | Email this | Comments

Nikon D800 slips out for an early bird preview, to be officially unveiled tomorrow?

Joseph Volpe — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 16:05:00 EDT

We've seen Nikon's successor to the D700 slip out a few times this past winter, but this latest leak and its bevy of press images might just be the real deal. According to Brazilian site ZTOP, the company's set to officially debut its 36.3 megapixel D800 tomorrow. So, what's on the spec list? Well, it looks like those rumors were true, as this high-end DSLR apparently boasts that aforementioned CMOS sensor capable of 7360 x 4912 resolution and the ability to toggle ISO from 100 - 6,400. As you'd imagine, this high-end, digital light box also comes equipped with the ability for full 1080p30 HD video capture, recording content in either H.264 or MPEG-4 formats. Naturally, there's also a 3.2-inch LCD screen onboard so you can sift through your sizeable gallery of stills. While we still caution you to take this news with a nigh invisible grain of salt, it's likely all will be revealed in one day's time. Check out the source below for additional shots.

Nikon D800 slips out for an early bird preview, to be officially unveiled tomorrow? originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 16:05:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | ZTOP (Translated) | Email this | Comments

Snow Leopard update wreaks havoc on Rosetta, luddite users contemplate running with Lion (update)

Joseph Volpe — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 16:21:00 EDT

Normally updates are meant to better your OS, delivering necessary tweaks and performance improvements. But this latest batch out of Cupertino's managed to do just the opposite for users running the Lion 10.7.3 package, as it's caused many applications to force crash and bewildered users to restore Time Machine backups. Well, now the hordes clinging to Snow Leopard can join in the commiseration, as forums begin to flood with reports of failed Rosetta compatibility. That software, essential for PowerPC programs to run on Apple's preferred Intel chipset, has been rendered useless by a just released security fix, prompting one community member to craft a DIY patch. While, Apple is reportedly working on a cure-all for these rampant woes, we'd caution any who haven't taken the plunge to sit this one out for a bit.

Update: Good news for those of you on Lion that haven't updated, as Apple's pulled the 10.7.3 delta update (responsible for borked installs), leaving those who haven't taken the plunge to try the larger (and non-problematic) combo one. Unfortunately for users of Snow Leopard, though, the troublesome security update lives on, so until Cupertino rectifies (and we update), sound off on how the temporary fix is treating you in the comments below.

Snow Leopard update wreaks havoc on Rosetta, luddite users contemplate running with Lion (update) originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 04 Feb 2012 16:21:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | MacRumors, Apple | Email this | Comments

AT&T seeks to impose conditions on Dish LTE network, FCC to settle wireless squabble

Joseph Volpe — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 18:44:00 EDT

You know the saying, second place is the first loser? Well, it looks like AT&T, which recently saw its attempt to absorb T-Mobile thwarted, is living up to that adage by petitioning the FCC to impose an "overly aggressive buildout" of Dish's planned mobile network. In a recent filing to the Commission, the satco countered this request for "LightSquared-like" requirements, defining its operation as a strictly retail endeavor, one that faces entirely different hurdles than that of its wholesale competitor. If granted, however, these conditions could see the fledgling network rushed to the marketplace before the completion of an LTE-Advanced standard and widespread availability of compatible devices -- both key elements of the MVPD's service strategy. The company also goes on to contest interference issues surrounding its 700MHz holdings, stating that it has no current plans to repurpose the spectrum for mobile broadband use, despite AT&T's claims to that effect. We'll keep you posted as this wireless battle plays out. In the meantime, hit up the source below to peruse the dense legalese.

AT&T seeks to impose conditions on Dish LTE network, FCC to settle wireless squabble originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 18:44:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink dailywireless, FierceWireless | FCC | Email this | Comments

All PlayBooks go to heaven: Telus leak points to end-of-life status

Joseph Volpe — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 16:39:00 EDT

This is the end, dear PlayBook-admiring friends. That is to say, it's the end-of-life for RIM's first unsuccessful stab at tablet computing. Unsurprisingly, the marketing blitzkrieg that saw J.Lo and the Flash Gordon theme awkwardly peddle the flailing tab hasn't done much to elevate sales or consumer interest, forcing its Canadian overlords to issue Telus an EOL notice. This not unexpected bit of news comes right on the heels of the BB maker's recently leaked device roadmap, in which a spring bow for a higher-specced, 3G+ enabled iteration is clearly denoted. Whatever Waterloo's near future plans for the category are, we know for sure they won't include BB 10 until much later this year. Chin up though, folks. At least we have OS 2.0 to soothe our fraught nerves in the interim.

[Thanks, Jaimie]

Continue reading All PlayBooks go to heaven: Telus leak points to end-of-life status

All PlayBooks go to heaven: Telus leak points to end-of-life status originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 16:39:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Jawbone Big Jambox packs on the pounds, rears its fat head at the FCC

Joseph Volpe — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 09:57:00 EDT

Despite occupying a questionable space on the scale of must-have audio goods, Jawbone's little Bluetooth speaker that could managed to win us over with its ample range. Now, that stylish peripheral is about to get shunted out of the spotlight, making way for a plus-sized sibling. As recent FCC documents have revealed, the company has a Big Jambox in the works which is, presumably, bigger than its diminutive kin. Aside from ports for micro-USB, audio-in and power, not much else could be gleaned from the filing. Given its larger-than-life moniker, however, we'd expect this new offering to be more of a standard dock than kitschy accessory.

Jawbone Big Jambox packs on the pounds, rears its fat head at the FCC originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 09:57:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink Wireless Goodness | FCC | Email this | Comments

Corning and Samsung ink new joint venture, plot Lotus Glass future for OLED devices

Joseph Volpe — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 08:48:00 EDT

Anyone keeping a close eye on the mobile market knows that Samsung and Super AMOLED, much like peanut butter and jelly, are inextricable bosom buddies. So, this recent tech marriage between the Korean electronics giant and Corning (of Gorilla Glass fame) shouldn't come as much surprise for fans of super saturated screens. Under terms of the agreement, both parties will jointly manufacture Lotus Glass for use in smartphones falling under the Galaxy umbrella, as well as Super OLED TVs. The substrate, heralded for its ability to withstand "higher processing temperatures" without compromising structural stability, will help create a range of less power consumptive, high-resolution devices. Unexciting? Sure, but you didn't think those 720p displays were going to make themselves, now did you? Official PR after the break.

Continue reading Corning and Samsung ink new joint venture, plot Lotus Glass future for OLED devices

Corning and Samsung ink new joint venture, plot Lotus Glass future for OLED devices originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 08:48:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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HTC Sensation puts on a white coat to match its Ice Cream Sandwich innards (updated)

Joseph Volpe — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 13:16:00 EDT

You may have already moved on to more Amaze-ing HTC phones, but there's nothing like a new coat of paint to rekindle consumer interest in its older, less Sensational offerings. And so, the handset that ushered in Sense 3.0 and its signature lockscreen is getting a visual refresh and a belly full of Google's latest mobile OS, just not at the same time. A release from Dutch PR firm Whizpr has that handset, newly encased in a White Ice-colored unibody, pegged for a March 1st release overseas running Ice Cream Sandwich. No mention was made as to whether the device would actually ship with the new UI onboard or if it'll bear the marks of Sense 4.0, but knowing the company, you can likely count on it. For the rest of you current Sensation owners, don't despair, an OTA update keeping that O.G. handset up-to-speed should be on the way "soon."

Update: HTC reached out to let us know that this white ice Sensation will actually ship with Android 2.3 Gingerbread out of the box. A planned update to Ice Cream Sandwich is still on track for some time early this year.

HTC Sensation puts on a white coat to match its Ice Cream Sandwich innards (updated) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 13:16:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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3DS adds to its European WiFi arsenal, gains over 5,000 free hotspots

Joseph Volpe — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 02:49:00 EDT

Like any new console, the 3DS has had its share of growing pains. But the awkward acne of its first year has mostly been smoothed over, giving way to an attractive price, a library of compelling content and even DLC freebies. So, what's left for the Big N to do? Well, over in Europe, the company's partnered up with free-hotspot.com giving, you guessed it, more gratis WiFi to owners across 21 different Euro zone countries. These 5,000 or so new access points will be made available at a variety of hotels and fast food chains throughout the continent. So, the next time you're lined up for a Royale with cheese, feel free to hop online and start working through that Netflix queue.

Continue reading 3DS adds to its European WiFi arsenal, gains over 5,000 free hotspots

3DS adds to its European WiFi arsenal, gains over 5,000 free hotspots originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 02:49:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Mushroom Networks ThirdEye makes surveillance mobile, peeping on perps goes wireless

Joseph Volpe — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 12:25:00 EDT

Wires are messy -- especially, if you're running lines for (homeland) security. But for those sectors specifically concerned with keeping tabs on potential miscreants, Mushroom Networks' ThirdEye is poised to get the job done while dispensing with all of that unnecessary, tethered clutter. The currently available device, pictured above, utilizes the company's Broadband Bonding tech to mesh bandwidth across several cellular data cards into one high-speed connection for PTZ cameras (pan-tilt-zoom), letting corporate or government users patrol their perimeters remotely in real-time. The cost of this surveillance freedom won't come cheap for Uncle Sam and friends either, with prices starting at $3,190. Unless you're the Howard Hughes homebound-type, you won't be needing this level of protection. No, that's what the Slomin Shield is for. Official PR after the break.

Continue reading Mushroom Networks ThirdEye makes surveillance mobile, peeping on perps goes wireless

Mushroom Networks ThirdEye makes surveillance mobile, peeping on perps goes wireless originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 01 Feb 2012 12:25:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nikon outs new Coolpix trio: L810 with 26x zoom, waterproof S30 and Intelligent Auto L26

Joseph Volpe — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 23:01:00 EDT

Point-and-shoot refreshes may not get you all hot and bothered like some new, networked DSLRs might, but Nikon's doing its best to reinvigorate the category. Announced today, the new line of Coolpix digital cameras crams an assortment of dedicated features -- Intelligent Auto, ultra-zoom and ruggedization -- into a spread of budget-friendly, 720p HD-capable offerings. The leader of this updated bunch, the L810, combines a 26x (22.5mm-585mm) lens, 19 exposure settings and a 3-inch LCD screen with VR image stabilization for users who want to get up close and personal without compromising detail. While the bar-lowering L26 makes the art of imaging a bit simpler and removes that pesky need for photographic know-how, capturing pictures using a 5x Zoom-NIKKOR lens in tandem with its array of automatically-selected scene modes. And for the accident prone amongst you amateur Ansel Adamses, the company's S30 packs a 10.1MP sensor and 3x wide angle lens into a drop-resistant, waterproof shell. These three digital imaging amigos are available starting this February in an assortment of colors, with the L810 retailing for $280 and its category siblings pegged for $120 each. Head on past the break to peruse the official presser and get the lowdown on the extended feature set.

Gallery: Nikon Coolpix L810, L26 and S30

Continue reading Nikon outs new Coolpix trio: L810 with 26x zoom, waterproof S30 and Intelligent Auto L26

Nikon outs new Coolpix trio: L810 with 26x zoom, waterproof S30 and Intelligent Auto L26 originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 23:01:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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FCC revamps Lifeline phone service, cuts the fat from carriers' bottomlines

Joseph Volpe — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 22:06:00 EDT

With a site redesign freshly under its belt, the FCC's setting its recently honed eye for modernization on other, more pertinent areas of its jurisdiction -- like Lifeline. The universal program, a means of guaranteeing affordable phone service to low-income families, hadn't exactly kept pace with changes in the telecom industry, overlooking consumers' preference for wireless and the growing need for pervasive broadband access. That's all set to change with new measures adopted by the Commission today designed to curb carrier abuse of the antiquated system and automate the enrollment process by eliminating unnecessary duplicate accounts and subsidies. A pilot program to offer and potentially bundle discounted, high-speed internet to eligible participants is also underway, with potential ISP partners currently being solicited for inclusion. All told, the moves could wind up saving the federal agency over $2 billion in misdirected funds over a three-year span, leaving more money on the table to help your average Joe and Jane America step firmly into the 21st century.

FCC revamps Lifeline phone service, cuts the fat from carriers' bottomlines originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 22:06:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sprint grants LightSquared six-week extension for FCC approval

Joseph Volpe — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 18:58:00 EDT

As Carl Icahn prepares to take the wheel, buttressed by a cushion of distressed LightSquared debt, Sprint appears close to ending its ill-fated dance with the upstart LTE provider. After granting the Falcone-backed company a 30-day extension earlier this January, the Hesse-led co is taking one last stab at making that 15-year resource sharing agreement work, giving the beleaguered network an additional six weeks to garner regulatory approval for its controversial spectrum. As it stands, the fate of LS' wholesale 4G operation lies within the FCC's hands and with no hard date for a final ruling in sight, it's easy to read this last lifeline as the end.

Sprint grants LightSquared six-week extension for FCC approval originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 18:58:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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X-ray laser bakes solid plasma from aluminum foil, brings us closer to nuclear fusion

Joseph Volpe — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 10:39:00 EDT

Nuclear fusion, like flying cars, is one of those transparent, dangling carrots that've been stymying the scientific community and tickling our collective noses for decades. But recent research out of the Department of Energy's SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory might help us inch a few baby steps closer to that Jetsonian future. The experiment, conducted by a group of Oxford University scientists, utilized the DOE's Linac Coherent Light Source -- an X-ray laser capable of pulsing "more than a billion times brighter" than current synchrotron sources -- to transmute a piece of aluminum foil heated to 3.6 million degrees Fahrenheit (or 2 million degrees Celsius) into a cube of solid plasma. So, why go to such lengths to fry a tiny piece of metal at that extreme temperature? Simple: to replicate conditions found within stars and planets. Alright, so it's not that easy and we're still a ways off from actually duping celestial bodies, but the findings could help advance theories in the field and eventually unlock the powers of the Sun. Until that fateful day arrives, however, we'll just have to let these pedigreed pyros continue to play with their high-tech toys.

Continue reading X-ray laser bakes solid plasma from aluminum foil, brings us closer to nuclear fusion

X-ray laser bakes solid plasma from aluminum foil, brings us closer to nuclear fusion originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 26 Jan 2012 10:39:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Recon Instruments partners with Contour, makes MOD Live into ski slope viewfinder

Joseph Volpe — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EDT

As if capturing your downhill plunge in full HD and tracking your positioning coordinates wasn't enough, Recon Instruments and Contour are teaming up to make their respective, extreme slope accessories work in tandem. Slated for release in the coming weeks, the Camera Connectivity app for MOD Live allows feeds sent from a Contour+ or ContourGPS helmet cam to display on the goggles' 14-inch virtual 428 x 240 display, giving gnar enthusiasts easy access to recording and settings options. But that's not the only cross-tech handshake being announced here. The company also plans to make the various info (altitude, speed, temperature, etc.) collected by its Android-powered mask available to iPhone 4S users, although you'll have to wait until year-end for that feature to launch. So, if you fancy yourself a connoisseur of the powdery white stuff or even the ski slope version of Bond, be sure to pack these Q-approved goodies and download that app before your next trek to Vail. Official PR after the break.

Continue reading Recon Instruments partners with Contour, makes MOD Live into ski slope viewfinder

Recon Instruments partners with Contour, makes MOD Live into ski slope viewfinder originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 26 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Arduino hack gives a second screen to Android phones, isn't very useful (video)

Joseph Volpe — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 09:28:00 EDT

Who knows why tech tinkerers do what they do. We're just happy to see those idle hands try the untested. Like this latest Arduino hack from modder Michael of Nootropic Design, who's seen fit to rig a 16 x 32 LED matrix up to an Android phone for use as a secondary display. The outputted video, downscaled via OpenCV software to an appropriate resolution and 12-bit color, is admittedly unimpressive, as it chugs along at a paltry four frames per second. But that's not the point of this can-do experiment -- it's all about the possibilities, however blurry and pointless they may be (although, we're sure Barbara Walters would beg to differ). Ready to see this modjob in motion? Then head on past the break for a brief video demo.

Continue reading Arduino hack gives a second screen to Android phones, isn't very useful (video)

Arduino hack gives a second screen to Android phones, isn't very useful (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 25 Jan 2012 09:28:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Acer Iconia Tab A510 to hit European retailers this April?

Joseph Volpe — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 08:01:00 EDT

Amidst the madness that was CES, Acer quietly snuck its Iconia Tab A510 onto the showroom floor, tucking the tablet into the folds of NVIDIA's booth. While the company was more than willing to fess up to the slate's specs -- quad-core Tegra 3 processor, skinned Ice Cream Sandwich UX, 1280 x 800 display -- little in the way of pricing and availability were revealed. If a report out of Germany is to be believed, however, Europeans (sorry, statesiders) might very well see the 10.1-incher hit retail as early as this April, with a €500 price tag in tow. That's all the rumor mill's wrought for now, folks, but we'll keep you posted should the news go official at CeBIT 2012.

Acer Iconia Tab A510 to hit European retailers this April? originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 25 Jan 2012 08:01:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Tokyoflash Kisai Optical Illusion watch is more than meets the eye, smells like teen spirit

Joseph Volpe — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 21:30:00 EDT

Back in the mid-90s, Magic Eye had a brief reign as the monger of stereogram cool -- you know, those hidden 3D images you could only see with crossed vision. While the flames of that mini-craze mercifully died out, it appears some diehard, grunge-era revivalist over at Tokyoflash is prepping a wrist piece comeback for the low-tech made notorious by Mallrats. Reincarnated as the Kisai Optical Illusion, this concept-to-design LCD watch incorporates high-resolution diagonal lines on its touch screen display that reveal the time to trained eyes. But if your peepers are out of practice, don't worry, there's also a handy shortcut button that ought to clarify things a bit. As with all of the outfit's pretty, but pointless chronological kit, this particular limited edition model will retail for $179 as part of a special two-day sale, after which it'll jump to $199. Like what you can't see? Then bust out the flannel, lace up those Docs and prepare your plastic for processing when this digital ticker hits virtual shelves.

Continue reading Tokyoflash Kisai Optical Illusion watch is more than meets the eye, smells like teen spirit

Tokyoflash Kisai Optical Illusion watch is more than meets the eye, smells like teen spirit originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 24 Jan 2012 21:30:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ice Cream Sandwich gets ready for its closeup, would like to thank Kinect for big screen break (video)

Joseph Volpe — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 21:18:00 EDT

Using Microsoft hardware to augment Android? Surely, you can't be serious? Well, confounding as this may be, it is indeed true... and don't call us Shirley. All fanboy-ism and Airplane! references aside, this Kinect hack (yes, another one) manages to move Ice Cream Sandwich out of its 4.65-inch confines and onto the big ~~screen~~ wall. The inventive and involved mod, borne from hacker Recursive Penguin's desire to demo in-development apps at business meetings, allows for gestures made on a projected interface to be deciphered by MS' famous add-on, resulting in real-time responses. While this particular pico-friendly bit looks simple (not to mention fun to use), it's actually a bit daunting: AOSP ROMs, TUIO protocol and multi-touch software, anyone? While there are, undoubtedly, some of you that could pull off such techie gee whizzery, we'll just sit and wait for Google to implement this in version 5.0. Check out the brief video after the break.

Continue reading Ice Cream Sandwich gets ready for its closeup, would like to thank Kinect for big screen break (video)

Ice Cream Sandwich gets ready for its closeup, would like to thank Kinect for big screen break (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 24 Jan 2012 21:18:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Next Xbox console to be six times more powerful, headed for fall 2013 release?

Joseph Volpe — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 18:18:00 EDT

Xbox 720, Xbox Loop -- whatever Microsoft ends up calling it, that hot rod of a console looks to be on deck for a late fall 2013 release. According to IGN's sources, this successor to the Redmond gaming throne is purported to pack a GPU based on AMD's 6000 series of chips and will boast silicon circuitry that catapults its performance past Nintendo's upcoming Wii U by 20 percent. If you're looking for a more apples to green X's comparison, this next-gen console's graphical capabilities are also reportedly six times greater than its 360 progenitor. While MS is likely holding back its monstrous new platform for a big E3 reveal, it appears the company's still whittling down its spec list, with dev kits to be issued later this August. No mention was made of its rumored Kinect 2 integration, but we're more than certain that famous hacking tech will be front and center.

[Image credit: Joseph Dumary]

Next Xbox console to be six times more powerful, headed for fall 2013 release? originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 24 Jan 2012 18:18:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Droid RAZR Maxx hits Verizon on January 26th for $299 on contract

Joseph Volpe — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EDT

While good handsets do tend to come in small packages, longer lasting ones are undoubtedly a bit fatter. And so, dear chubby phone chasing fans, Verizon's girthy revamp on its branding mash-up -- the Droid Razr Maxx -- is set for an official bow. After softly leaking the handset's launch date on its site, the operator's finally ready to roll out the Big Red carpet for the Moto-made device on January 26th. For $299 on contract, you're still getting the same dual-core, Gingerbread handset and 4.3-inch qHD display, but this time the zip and sip of the network's LTE won't do much damage to the truly beefy 3,300mAh battery. See? It's definitely deserving of that clunky, Maxximum moniker. Hop on past the break for the company's official presser.

Continue reading Droid RAZR Maxx hits Verizon on January 26th for $299 on contract

Droid RAZR Maxx hits Verizon on January 26th for $299 on contract originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 24 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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NBC News grows a digital publishing arm, plans 30 titles for 2012

Joseph Volpe — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 05:15:00 EDT

Because you can never have your fingers in too many media pies, the powers that be at NBC News are now extending their reach into the eReader space. Under the company's newly minted NBC Publishing imprint, coverage related to current events, docs and bios, in addition to content culled from other NBC Universal divisions, will get a second life as either digital singles (think: longer than an article, shorter than a few chapters) or straight-up eBooks, with about 30 titles slated for this year. The venture, spearheaded by GM Michael Fabiano, will also reportedly serve as a platform for indie authors that rely heavily upon NBC's own archives for sourcing in their work. So, will this brave, new embrace of a 21st century business model manage to wean news junkies off that 24/7 cable drip and back into the Peacock's ~~greedy~~ eager arms? Hard to say until that first title hits virtual stands next month. But when it does, here's to hoping it's more Brian Williams: A Man Mad About Lana Del Rey, than Telemundo: Inside the Telenovela. Just sayin'.

NBC News grows a digital publishing arm, plans 30 titles for 2012 originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 24 Jan 2012 05:15:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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