Engadget

Apache outs version 2.4 of its HTTP server six years after last full release

Michael Gorman — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 02:58:00 EDT

It's been half a dozen years since Apache last released a new version of its venerable HTTP server, but the day has finally come for version 2.4 to be unveiled to the world. Granted, the old Apache was doing fine -- it's been the most prolific web server in the world since the mid nineties -- but a bit of freshening up couldn't hurt, right? Among the many changes are reduced memory usage, improved performance and efficiency, and more finely-tuned caching support for high-traffic sites. If you want to know more, check out the source link below for an overview and full feature list. Well, what are you waiting for, Tanto... jump on it!

Apache outs version 2.4 of its HTTP server six years after last full release originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 23 Feb 2012 02:58:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink Ars Technica | Apache Software Foundation | Email this | Comments

Chaotic Moon's Board of Awesomeness gains mind controls, becomes Board of Imagination

Michael Gorman — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 18:11:00 EDT

Remember the Board of Awesomeness we took for a spin back at CES? Well, the folks from Chaotic Moon went back to the lab to make it even better with a new control system, swapping out the Kinect sensor bar for an Emotiv EPOC headset and re-christened it the Board of Imagination. So, instead of using your hand to control the throttle, you simply visualize and focus on where you want to go, and the headset tells the board how fast to go to get there. The brains of the thing are still housed in a Samsung slate running Windows 8, and it can still shred asphalt at speeds up to 32mph, but now it's a truly mind-blowing experience. Don't believe us? Check out the Board of Imagination in action after the break.

Continue reading Chaotic Moon's Board of Awesomeness gains mind controls, becomes Board of Imagination

Chaotic Moon's Board of Awesomeness gains mind controls, becomes Board of Imagination originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 18:11:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Google Fiber just got better? Big G asks for permission to provide video service to Kansas City

Michael Gorman — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 14:56:00 EDT

Here we thought the citizens of Kansas City couldn't get any more fortunate after being chosen by Google to get a fiber optic gigabit network. Turns out, Google Fiber may be bringing more than just web access, as the company has asked the state of Missouri to allow it to deliver video services as well. We first heard about Big G's possible foray into pay-TV late last year, as the company was in talks with various content providers to see if it could make it happen. Given this official move towards becoming a video provider in America's heartland, we'd say those conversations must have gone fairly well. Either that, or the folks in Kansas City will be watching a whole lot of YouTube's new niche content.

Google Fiber just got better? Big G asks for permission to provide video service to Kansas City originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 14:56:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Wall Street Journal, New York Post | Email this | Comments

Google and Adobe team up to make Flash Player for Linux (updated)

Michael Gorman — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 12:19:00 EDT

Linux may no longer be getting any more fresh Air, but it's going to get a heaping helping of Flash thanks to a partnership between Adobe and Google. You see, ~~Adobe~~ the pair has been developing a new browser API to work with Flash, code-named "Pepper," to provide Flash Player 11.2 in Chrome on any x86/64 platform -- including Linux. From now on, Linux users will get new versions of Flash Player directly through the Pepper API in Chrome (as opposed to a download from Adobe), but Adobe promises to provide security updates for five years after its release. Don't believe us? Get the good news direct from Adobe at the source below.

Update: To be clear, while this will keep Flash updated in Chrome, it's uncertain what this means for other browsers like Firefox, Konqueror and Midori.

Google and Adobe team up to make Flash Player for Linux (updated) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 12:19:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Dell XPS 13 manuals leak, spill the Ultrabook's guts all over the internet

Michael Gorman — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 06:21:00 EDT

Perhaps you've had your eye on Dell's XPS 13 since we showed you a pre-production model last month, but were looking to learn a bit more about it before buying one? Well, you're in luck, because a spate of manuals for the thing has shown up online, giving you plenty of info on the Ultrabook before its official debut. The owner's manual is of particular interest, as it shows you how to do your very own iFixit teardown -- with pictures and instructions on how to remove many of the Dell's parts, including the keyboard, battery, and even the I/O board, too. Naturally, there's also a quick start guide and a full spec sheet available for download as well, so what are you waiting for? Head on down to the source link for a heavy dose of all the newest, slimmest Dell has to offer.

Dell XPS 13 manuals leak, spill the Ultrabook's guts all over the internet originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 06:21:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Comcast to launch Xfinity Streampix streaming video service, challenge Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon (update)

Michael Gorman — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 13:54:00 EDT

It was only a matter of time, right? The Wall Street Journal reports that Comcast is rolling out a VOD competitor for Amazon, Netflix and Hulu so it can grab a slice of the streaming video pie. Called Xfinity Streampix, it brings shows from NBC and ABC, along with movies from Sony Pictures and Warner Bros. Scheduled to launch this Thursday, the service will be rolled in for free with some existing cable packages and available on its own for $4.99 a month. For your five bucks, you get access to a back catalog of shows and movies on any internet-capable device, though, naturally we don't know exactly how much content will be available when it goes live. What we do know is that price point puts Streampix well beneath the $7.99 asking price of its competition, so here's hoping a VOD price war ensues.

Update: Check out the official PR after the break for more details, including a list of the content coming to Streampix and Comcast's plans to bring VOD to the Xbox 360 and Android.

Continue reading Comcast to launch Xfinity Streampix streaming video service, challenge Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon (update)

Comcast to launch Xfinity Streampix streaming video service, challenge Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon (update) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 21 Feb 2012 13:54:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink Wall Street Journal | Comcast Voices | Email this | Comments

Ubuntu's full desktop OS coming to multi-core Android devices (update: video)

Michael Gorman — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 13:11:00 EDT

What the Atrix 4G first promised, it looks like the folks at Canonical may deliver. Think back to CES 2011, when Motorola showed us a future where our phone was the only computing device we would need -- only to leave us wanting when its webtop app didn't deliver the requisite functionality for such a future. Well, it turns out Ubuntu now runs on multi-core Android devices and your handset can grant a full desktop experience when docked with a display and a keyboard. It's a customized version of Ubuntu that plays nice with Android, the two OS's sharing data and services while running simultaneously. So, you can still access telephony and texts from the Ubuntu environment while enjoying all the computing capabilities it has to offer, including: Ubuntu TV, virtualization tools for running Windows applications, desktop web browsers, and Ubuntu apps built for ARM. It isn't clear exactly what hardware you'll need to run Ubuntu on a handset, but Canonical has said it works on multi-core devices with HDMI and USB connections. We'll get more info next week when it's shown off at MWC, but until then you'll have to settle for the source below and PR after the break.

Update: Have a look at the slick integration in a video we've embedded after the break.

[Thanks, Bekira]

Continue reading Ubuntu's full desktop OS coming to multi-core Android devices (update: video)

Ubuntu's full desktop OS coming to multi-core Android devices (update: video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 21 Feb 2012 13:11:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Google pads IP portfolio, purchases Cuil's pending search-related patent applications

Michael Gorman — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 02:44:00 EDT

Google's been buying a fair amount of IP over the past several months from IBM, and now the Big G has acquired seven new patent applications from the now-defunct search engine, Cuil. Back in 2008, Cuil aimed to take Google's crown as the king of search, but was shut down 2010 because it often failed to provide relevant results (despite its massive site index). Good thing the patent apps Google's gotten are for different methods of displaying search results, as opposed to, you know, finding them. The full list of assignments can be found at the source below, so head on down to get your fill of patent claims and black and white drawings.

Google pads IP portfolio, purchases Cuil's pending search-related patent applications originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 21 Feb 2012 02:44:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink SEO by the Sea | USPTO | Email this | Comments

Oracle drops patent from Google lawsuit, Google moves to strike Oracle's third damages report

Michael Gorman — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 22:37:00 EDT

After much sound and fury in its legal proceedings for IP infringement against Google, Oracle's claims continue to be whittled away. Judge Alsup has been on Oracle's case to downgrade its damages claims for months now, and on Friday, he got yet another reason to do so. Ellison's crew has finally withdrawn the last remaining claim of patent number 6,192,476 from the litigation -- the very same patent that had 17 of 21 claims wiped out earlier during a USPTO re-examination proceeding. Additionally, Google has filed a motion to strike Oracle's third damages report for, once again, artificially inflating the monetary damages in its expert report. No one can say for sure how the judge will rule on that motion, but given that Oracle's got less IP than ever with which to allege infringement, it seems likely that the Court will send it back to the damages drawing board.

Oracle drops patent from Google lawsuit, Google moves to strike Oracle's third damages report originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Feb 2012 22:37:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink The Inquirer | Letter from Oracle (PDF), Google motion to strike (PDF) | Email this | Comments

Rinspeed gives Smart Fortwo ED two extra wheels, more junk in the trunk

Michael Gorman — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 20:02:00 EDT

Rinspeed is a Swiss speed shop that is perhaps best known for making rather outlandish concept cars, from glorified golf carts to Bond-inspired amphibious autos. And now the company has unveiled its latest creation, the Dock+Go, a "backpack" for your Smart Fortwo ED. Essentially, Rinspeed has modified an existing Fortwo EV so that it can connect an extra axle to its derriere, providing extra trunk space, a hot box for pizza delivery or even extra speakers and infotainment options. Not only that, but the automotive add-on also packs extra oomph to give your mini EV additional range with a built-in fuel cell, battery or ICE.

The Fortwo that the Dock+Go mates with has itself gotten a bunch of show-worthy interior upgrades as well. It's got a 12.1-inch in-dash monitor, infotainment system from Harman with Aha radio and gesture control, plus an incredibly safe smartphone cradle built into the steering wheel to give the Smart's cockpit a second screen. Because it's a concept, you won't see the Dock+Go on the streets anytime soon, but you can see plenty more pictures of it at the source below. Oh, and should customer demand be sufficient, Rinspeed's in talks with manufacturers to make it happen. What say you, dear readers, does a Fortwo EV with a fatter caboose appeal to you?

Rinspeed gives Smart Fortwo ED two extra wheels, more junk in the trunk originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Feb 2012 20:02:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Georgia Tech researchers turn an iPhone into a Braille writer with BrailleTouch app

Michael Gorman — Sat, 18 Feb 2012 20:28:00 EDT

It wasn't all that long ago that we saw a student turn a tablet into a Braille writer, and now some researchers from Georgia Tech have done the same thing for smaller touchscreens, too. The Yellow Jackets produced a prototype app, called BrailleTouch, that has six keys to input letters using the Braille writing system and audio to confirm each letter as it's entered. To use the app, you simply turn the phone face down, hold it in landscape mode and start typing. As you can see above, it's currently running on an iPhone, but the researchers see it as a universal eyes-free texting app for any touchscreen. Early studies with people proficient in Braille writing show that typing on BrailleTouch is six times faster than other eyes-free texting solutions -- up to 32 words per minute at 92 percent accuracy. Skeptical of such speeds? Check out the PR and video of the app in action after the break.

Continue reading Georgia Tech researchers turn an iPhone into a Braille writer with BrailleTouch app

Georgia Tech researchers turn an iPhone into a Braille writer with BrailleTouch app originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 18 Feb 2012 20:28:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BlackBerry Playbook OS 2.0 release confirmed for February 21st

Michael Gorman — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 16:13:00 EDT

There's been plenty of back and forth between the web and RIM lately regarding the debut date of the next OS release for the PlayBook, and now we've got some hard evidence showing that the software is set to be let loose on February 21st . As you can see in the picture above, PlayBook users will be able to download version 2.0 in the early hours of an unknown time zone next Tuesday. The much anticipated update will finally give the tablet a native email client, improved BlackBerry Bridge functionality and plenty of other goodies. Not only that, BlackBerry Mobile Fusion will be rolling out that same day, giving IT professionals the ability to manage all BlackBerry devices from a single interface -- with Android and iOS controls coming in March. The picture to prove it is after the break, and now that we got that settled, we can go back to speculating about BlackBerry 10, right?

[Thanks, Anonymous]

Continue reading BlackBerry Playbook OS 2.0 release confirmed for February 21st

BlackBerry Playbook OS 2.0 release confirmed for February 21st originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 17 Feb 2012 16:13:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Doodle Defense game uses Kinect to turn white boards into displays, dry-erase markers into weapons

Michael Gorman — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 23:06:00 EDT

Tower defense games have been done in damn near every way possible: on consoles, mobile apps, and online flash-based games. However, there's a new Kickstarter project, called Doodle Defense, that's putting a new spin on that simple gaming idea using some open source algorithms, a whiteboard, computer, Kinect and a projector. The game works by projecting the battlefield and bad guys on the whiteboard, while users can draw in obstacles using a black marker and towers of varied attack abilities in red, green, and blue. Kinect tracks where your drawings are onscreen, and reroutes the invaders accordingly, while also keeping track of how much ink you have left to use. Check out the video after the break to see the game in action, and if you want to pitch in to the inventor port Doodle Defense to the iPad, hit the source link below.

Continue reading Doodle Defense game uses Kinect to turn white boards into displays, dry-erase markers into weapons

Doodle Defense game uses Kinect to turn white boards into displays, dry-erase markers into weapons originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 16 Feb 2012 23:06:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Google files patent app for unlocking devices, says we don't need no stinking slide-to-unlock

Michael Gorman — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 20:56:00 EDT

Apple's legal assault on Android has ratcheted up another notch with Cupertino's newest complaint against Samsung, in which it alleges a bevy of devices infringe upon its slide-to-unlock patent. Help may be on the way, however, as a recent Google patent application shows Mountain View aims to acquire some device-unlocking IP of its own. Titled "Input to Locked Computing Device," the application claims a method for a device unlocking process using one or more user inputs while simultaneously executing a command -- like calling a specific contact or opening an application. Those user inputs can take the form of passcodes, touch and drag, or audio commands. While the application's drawings depict such a system on a phone, it claims an unlocking system for desktops and laptops as well, so it could easily find its way onto a Chromebook or two. Of course, it's just an application, so there's no telling when, or if, it'll actually become an addition to Android's courtroom arsenal, but feel free to check out the app itself by surfing on over to the source link below.

Google files patent app for unlocking devices, says we don't need no stinking slide-to-unlock originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 16 Feb 2012 20:56:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink Patently Apple | USPTO | Email this | Comments

Apple v. Samsung: Cupertino's latest complaint alleges 17 devices infringe 8 of its patents

Michael Gorman — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 01:24:00 EDT

We were waiting for the details of Apple's new lawsuit in its global battle against Samsung, and now that the court has posted the complaint, we have them. These fresh allegations claim Sammy has... you guessed it, infringed upon Apple's intellectual property. Turns out, there are eight patents at issue, with four of the patents in question having been granted since the last time Apple filed suit against the Korean firm. Among these are patents for missed call management, slide-to-unlock and data-syncing technology. Apple isn't just targeting the Galaxy Nexus with this suit as previously thought, either. In fact, at least 17 devices are alleged to have infringed, including all the US Galaxy S II variants, both the Galaxy Player 4.0 and 5.0, the Galaxy Tab 7.0 Plus and Galaxy Tab 8.9. So, should the Northern District of California decide to grant Apple's request for a preliminary injunction, a hefty chunk of Samsung's mobile products will be barred from store shelves here in the States. It'll be a bit before we hear Sammy's side of the story, but for now, you can see all of Apple's latest legal arguments below.

Apple v. Samsung: Cupertino's latest complaint alleges 17 devices infringe 8 of its patents originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 16 Feb 2012 01:24:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink FOSS Patents | Complaint (PDF) | Email this | Comments

Motorola outs Android 4.0 upgrade schedule, adds Atrix 4G, Photon 4G and others to the ICS party list

Michael Gorman — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 13:06:00 EDT

Ever since the debut of Ice Cream Sandwich, the masses of Motorola owners have yearned to discover when (if?) their devices would receive Android's latest and greatest. Well, Moto's finally let the cat out of the bag, setting out domestic and global timelines for its tablets and phones to get Android 4.0. Xoom WiFi owners here in the states have been enjoying ICS for a month, and Family Edition owners can expect the same tasty treat in Q2 of this year. Folks with RAZRs (including the Chinese MT917 variant) or XT928 (the Chinese evolution of the Droid X) in areas outside the US will be getting ICS in Q2 as well. Atrix 4G, Atrix 2, and Photon 4G owners around the world will have to wait until Q3 of 2012 for theirs, as will Xoom 2 and Xyboard owners. Motorola's blog, Inside Motorola, states that the Bionic, Droid 4, RAZR Maxx, and Electrify will be getting in on the action, too, but its engineers have yet to set a date for their upgrades. Head on down to the source links below to take a gander at the good news yourself.

Motorola outs Android 4.0 upgrade schedule, adds Atrix 4G, Photon 4G and others to the ICS party list originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 13:06:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink PC Mag | Motorola Owners Forum, Inside Motorola | Email this | Comments

LibreOffice updates to version 3.5, brings grammar check, bigger Calc workbooks, and more

Michael Gorman — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 19:34:00 EDT

Microsoft recently outed a preview of MS Office 15, so it's fitting that the Document Foundation has taken the wraps off the next major release of Office's open source competition, LibreOffice. Among the new features is a bundle of upgrades for its word processor, including a built-in grammar checker and a real-time word count window. Its PowerPoint equivalent, Impress, received the ability to embed multimedia and custom color palettes among others upgrades, while the spreadsheet software, Calc, now supports up to 10,000 sheets per workbook. Version 3.5 also reintroduces an online update checker to make it easy to keep LibreOffice up to date. All total, 30,000 code commits went into the improvements, so if you're on the open source office suite bandwagon, don't let that hard work go to waste -- check out the fruits of their labor at the source link below.

LibreOffice updates to version 3.5, brings grammar check, bigger Calc workbooks, and more originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 14 Feb 2012 19:34:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink Slashdot | The Document Foundation Blog, LibreOffice | Email this | Comments

Aereo puts TV antennas in the cloud, streams OTA broadcasts on the internet

Michael Gorman — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 13:33:00 EDT

We've all heard about SlingBox, that nifty bit of kit that lets you stream your cable or satellite television to the mobile device of your choice, and now a new company called Aereo aims to provide a similar service for OTA broadcast television. The service costs $12 dollars a month and will launch March 14th, but is only available to folks in New York City through Aereo's HTML5-powered website. It'll stream all the major networks, and also offers a cloud-based DVR service on the internet-connected device of your choosing, whether it's a media streamer, phone, tablet or TV. Aereo's powered by large devices containing tons of tiny, dime-sized TV antennas connected to the cloud, with individual antennas corresponding to individual users -- giving each the ability to tune into one channel at a time. Intrigued as much as we are? Learn all about Aereo's new service at the source link below.

Aereo puts TV antennas in the cloud, streams OTA broadcasts on the internet originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 14 Feb 2012 13:33:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink New York Times | Aereo, Aereo blog | Email this | Comments

Firefox on Windows 8: Metro build is in the works

Michael Gorman — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 14:28:00 EDT

We all know that Windows 8 will have a split personality, with a Windows 7 style "Classic" desktop environment working hand-in-hand with a finger-friendly Metro UI. Given that Firefox has a significant market share in the PC web browsing market, it's only natural for Mozilla to accommodate both parts of Microsoft's new OS. According to its 2012 Strategy & Roadmap, the company has plans for a proof-of-concept Win8 Firefox release in Q2 of this year. In that document, Mozilla reveals that a "simple evolution" of its existing browser will work with the "Classic" environment, but brand new new front-end and integration code is needed for Firefox to play nice with Metro. The plan is to build a Gecko-based browser that brings full Firefox capabilities and can handle Windows 8's unique requirements like being suspended by the OS when it's not being viewed and supporting multiple "snap" states to ensure a good browsing experience when multiple apps are open. Looks like Mozilla's crew of coders has their work cut out for them, and you can peep the full to-do list at the source link below.

Firefox on Windows 8: Metro build is in the works originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 13 Feb 2012 14:28:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink Ars Technica | Mozilla | Email this | Comments

Iran blocking access to Google's encrypted search, YouTube, and webmail

Michael Gorman — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 14:01:00 EDT

Iran has restricted access to the internet for years now, but it seems the land of Persia is clamping down even further on its citizens' ability to surf the web as they wish. Bloomberg has confirmed with Google that Iranians haven't had access to Google's encrypted search, YouTube and Gmail since February 10th. Iran's Mehr news agency has reported restrictions on other email services, including Hotmail, plus increased difficulties getting to domestic and news websites as well. 30 million folks, give or take, are currently locked out of their email, and there's no indication when, or if, access will be granted again.

Iran blocking access to Google's encrypted search, YouTube, and webmail originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 13 Feb 2012 14:01:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink The Next Web | Bloomberg, AFP | Email this | Comments

iFixit pries apart the Droid 4, strips slider to see its silicon insides

Michael Gorman — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 11:49:00 EDT

Verizon's Droid 4 was officially released last week, so naturally, iFixit spent the weekend pulling the phone apart for all to see. Among the nuggets of knowledge uncovered during the teardown is the discovery that the fourth iteration breaks from Droid tradition in a couple of not-so-positive ways. First off, Moto decided to integrate the keyboard into the motherboard, meaning if one of your keys quits working, you'll have to replace the motherboard, too. Not only that, but the Droid 4's battery is purportedly no longer user-replaceable, though iFixit's deft disembodied hands were able to pry it loose with some effort. It's not all bad, as the teardown did confirm that the handset does, in fact, pack the promised 16GB of onboard storage. Don't take our word for it, though, there's a bevy of pics of the flayed phone for your perusal at the source link below, so hop on over for the full monty.

iFixit pries apart the Droid 4, strips slider to see its silicon insides originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 13 Feb 2012 11:49:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Google makes 'next gen personal communications device,' is testing it in employee abodes

Michael Gorman — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 01:53:00 EDT

We first heard about Google's foray into home-based hardware late last week, when it asked the FCC for Special Temporary Authority (STA) to have employees test an "entertainment device" in their homes (as opposed to a lab). According to the New York Times and Wall Street Journal, it's rumored to be a Sonos-like device related to the Android@Home Tungsten hub we saw at Google I/O last year. It appears, however, that's not all Google's got in store, as some information has trickled out about another Google-branded gadget. Apparently, it's a "next generation personal communication device," and Mountain View has asked the FCC for another STA to test 102 of them in the same cities as the aforementioned entertainment box: Mountain View, LA, New York and Cambridge, Massachusetts.

Why? Well, Google wants to track its Bluetooth performance and evaluate "the throughput and stability of the home WiFi networks that will support the device" in a real-world setting. Other details about the device are scant, but we do know that testing on this second Google-made gadget is ongoing through July 15th, so here's hoping we can get a glimpse of one between now and then. Check out the FCC docs for both devices at the source below, and feel free to sound off on what you think Google's got in store in the comments after.

Google makes 'next gen personal communications device,' is testing it in employee abodes originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 13 Feb 2012 01:53:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink Ars Technica | FCC (1), (2) | Email this | Comments

Hacker spites Symantec, puts pcAnywhere's source code out in the open

Michael Gorman — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 09:24:00 EDT

Symantec said that folks running its pcAnywhere utility were at an "increased risk" when it revealed that the company had been hacked and its source codes pilfered, and advised customers to stop using pcAnywhere for the time being. Sage advice, as a hacker with the handle YamaTough -- who's affiliated with Anonymous -- helped do the deed and has now published the code for all the world to see. Apparently, the hacker and hackee had attempted to broker a deal for $50,000 to keep the code private, but neither side negotiated in good faith -- YamaTough always intended to release the code, and law enforcement was doing the talking for Symantec to catch him and his hacking cohorts. The good news is, Symantec has released several patches to protect pcAnywhere users going forward. As for the stolen code for Norton Antivirus, Internet Security and other Symantec software? Well, the company's expecting it to be disclosed, too, but because the code is from 2006, customers with current versions can rest easy.

Hacker spites Symantec, puts pcAnywhere's source code out in the open originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 09:24:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink CNET | Reuters | Email this | Comments

Congress passes bill giving the FAA $11 billion to get off radar, onto GPS

Michael Gorman — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 15:42:00 EDT

It took awhile, and the price tag is quite a bit steeper than previously thought (shocking, right?), but the FAA is finally getting the funding it needs to bring the nation's air traffic control system up to date. Congress just passed the bill to make it happen, allotting $11 billion to the FAA to upgrade the nation's 35 busiest airports air traffic controls from radar to GPS. The deadline for the conversion is June 2015, and when complete, it'll allow for more precise positioning of aircraft -- GPS pings for the planes' locations every second, while radar updates their locations every 6 to 12 seconds. With such technology enabled, airplanes will be able to take-off and land more closely together while utilizing steeper descents than is currently possible to conserve fuel. So, now that we've got the new traffic control system to improve airline punctuality, we just need the FAA and the FCC to team up and eliminate the "Terrible 10,000 feet" and flying might actually be fun.

Congress passes bill giving the FAA $11 billion to get off radar, onto GPS originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 15:42:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Mobile Tech Today | Email this | Comments

Yahoo's management overhaul continues: Chairman and three board members step down

Michael Gorman — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 19:52:00 EDT

Out with the old, in with the new, eh? Yahoo certainly subscribes to that philosophy, as it's already shuffled out Jerry Yang in favor of Scott Thompson as its CEO, and now the company will be adding four fresh faces to its board. Among those departing Yahoo is Roy Bostock -- which ends his four year reign as Chairman of the board -- who is perhaps most well-known for having a hand in turning down Microsoft's money in 2008. With this most recent shuffling at the top, Yahoo's down to just seven board members, but the search is on to find replacements for the departed directors. Who will be the lucky chosen ones? No one can say for sure, but given Yahoo's declining status, whoever joins up will have their work cut out to get the company back on top.

Yahoo's management overhaul continues: Chairman and three board members step down originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 19:52:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink PC World | USA Today | Email this | Comments

Canon unveils new PowerShot A-Series cameras, brings image stabilization to its entry-level

Michael Gorman — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:00:00 EDT

Thought Canon was done with the point-and-shoot updates after refreshing its ELPH lineup last month? Think again, as the company is updating its PowerShot A-Series shooters with six new models in a variety of colors. All the cameras pack a 16-megapixel sensor, 28mm wide angle lens and can take 720p video. First up is the A4000 IS, which brings image stabilization, 8X optical zoom and a 3-inch LCD for $200 later this month. The A3400 IS and A2400 IS make their debuts in March, and bring the same image stabilization as the 4000, but have a lesser 5X optical zoom. Additionally, the 3400 packs a 3-inch touchscreen LCD and costs $180, while the 2400 gets a smaller non-touchscreen 2.7-inch LCD and retails for $150. Meanwhile, the A2300 has the same specs as the 2400, minus the image stabilization, and will cost ten bucks less than its brother when it drops next month. Finally, the PowerShot A1300 and A810 each come with 5X optical zoom and a 2.7-inch LCD when they debut in April, with the A810 priced at $110 and the A1300 available for $120.

Gallery: Canon PowerShot A-Series

Continue reading Canon unveils new PowerShot A-Series cameras, brings image stabilization to its entry-level

Canon unveils new PowerShot A-Series cameras, brings image stabilization to its entry-level originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Intel SSD 520 review roundup: Intel reliability, SandForce speeds starting at $149

Michael Gorman — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 15:39:00 EDT

There's plenty of SSD options out there, but Intel's NAND drives are among the most well thought of, simply because they're so reliable. But, with the top speed of competing SSDs spiraling higher, Intel's rock-solid reputation may not be enough for some enthusiasts. Enter the SSD 520, with a performance SandForce SF-2281 controller and custom firmware (codenamed Cherryville) on board to ensure the 520 meets Chipzilla's demanding standards for stability. It's the result of a year and a half long collaboration between Intel and SandForce, and is available in both 7mm and 9.5mm thin form factors to fit any machine -- Ultrabook or otherwise. Aside from the SandForce chip, the 520 packs Intel's finest 25nm NAND Flash, a SATA 6GB/s connection and its 550MB/s reads and 520MB/s writes can be had for $149 in 60GB garb and prices escalate up to a grand for 480GB. Naturally, as this is Intel's effort to snatch back the performance market, a raft of reviews have been written about the SSD 520.

So, how does the 520 stack up? Well, Intel's so confident in the 520 that it's backed the SSD with a five-year warranty. Though its performance doesn't drastically outpace its competition, Storage Review found the drive to be on par with the current speed king, OCZ's Vertex 3 in its benchmarks -- and also found performance and stability to be quite good in both enterprise use and in RAID arrays. Meanwhile, AnandTech found that the 520's peak random write speeds quite similar to its sequential reads during testing, which shows how well the optimized firmware works with the NAND. Hot Hardware thought the 520 to be comparable to other SandForce-equipped SSDs, but in terms of power consumption, Tom's Hardware found Intel's latest to be a power hog. Generally, all the reviewers were in agreement: the 520 is a speedy SSD, but you pay a hefty premium for Intel's reputation for churning out reliable drives. Only time will tell if the 520 can deliver the reliability we want, but there's plenty of performance info to be had in the reviews listed below.

Intel SSD 520 review roundup: Intel reliability, SandForce speeds starting at $149 originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 15:39:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Storage Review (1), (2), (3), AnandTech, Tom's Hardware, Hot Hardware, Legit Reviews, The Tech Report, The SSD Review | Email this | Comments

Oops! Motorola sold refurbished Xooms without deleting previous owners' data

Michael Gorman — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 20:52:00 EDT

Usually, when passwords and personal information are exposed, it's because someone hacked a company's not-so-secure system. Motorola, however, managed to put people's info at risk without such malfeasance when it failed to wipe the memory of a batch of refurbished Xooms. The tablets in question were sold by Woot.com between October and December of last year, and Moto is claiming that it made the mistake on only small number of slates. Of course, we don't know exactly how many Xooms were shipped with previous owners' data onboard, but we do know that the company is actively attempting to make amends. Moto's offering two years of Experian identification protection services to those whose info was exposed and owners of affected Xooms are getting a little something too. Just send the device back to Motorola on the company's dime -- where it'll be properly reset and sent back to you, along with a $100 American Express gift card for your efforts. Wondering if you're among the unlucky? Hit the PR after the break for more info, and those with Wooted Xooms can plug in their slate's serial number at the source link below to find out for sure.

[Thanks, Scott]

Continue reading Oops! Motorola sold refurbished Xooms without deleting previous owners' data

Oops! Motorola sold refurbished Xooms without deleting previous owners' data originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 20:52:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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WiFi Kindle Touch gets its passport, now available internationally

Michael Gorman — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 18:21:00 EDT

Ever since Amazon unveiled its cheap-as-chips Kindle Touch, the thing's been selling like mad here in the US. However, our friends on other continents haven't been able to enjoy swiping and tapping its multitouch E Ink display -- until now, that is. Amazon failed to alert the masses with a press release, but a quick gander at the WiFi Touch's product page shows there's an option to ship one just about anywhere on the globe. Unfortunately, people in parts of the world with country-specific Amazon portals like Germany, France and the UK must still settle for the button-dependent Kindle 4. We're glad to see Bezos broadening his touchscreen e-reader's horizons, but let's not keep our friends across the pond Kindle Touch-free for much longer, OK?

WiFi Kindle Touch gets its passport, now available internationally originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 18:21:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink The eBook Reader | Amazon | Email this | Comments

AMD's new plan: focus on tablets, cloud computing and developing markets

Michael Gorman — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 15:44:00 EDT

Chipzilla has long been atop the PC chip manufacturing mountain, with AMD running a rather distant second. That's why AMD's new top man, Rory Read, plans to move the company in a more mobile direction. Speaking at the company's analyst day, Read stated that the chipmaker will focus on outflanking Intel in the tablet space and by growing its business in cloud computing and emerging markets like China (read: entry-level PCs and devices). As to whether AMD would venture into the smartphone space, Read was quite clear in stating that there were no plans to do so. But, he did make mention of being flexible when it came to chip architecture, including using 3rd party IP in developing new silicon -- so a switch to ARM may not be out of the question. How will AMD accomplish its new goals? By focusing on execution of its technology rather than trying to be on the bleeding edge -- sound familiar?

Continue reading AMD's new plan: focus on tablets, cloud computing and developing markets

AMD's new plan: focus on tablets, cloud computing and developing markets originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 15:44:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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German court denies Apple request for preliminary ban on Galaxy Tab 10.1N and Galaxy Nexus sales

Michael Gorman — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EDT

You win some, and you lose some, right, Apple? Hot on the heels of its latest victory in Dusseldorf keeping the Galaxy Tab 10.1 out of Deutschland, Apple was denied similar satisfaction in Munich today. Bloomberg's reporting that the Munich Regional Court denied Cupertino's motion to exclude Sammy's 10.1N and Galaxy Nexus from store shelves due to infringement of a touchscreen patent granted last year. While details of the ruling itself are scarce, the judge apparently rejected Apple's overtures because the patent in question is likely invalid due to the market presence of the same technology before the patent was granted. Of course, the 10.1N's not out of the woods yet, as next week the aforementioned court in Dusseldorf will pass judgment on Sammy's reworked slate. So, pop some popcorn folks, these legal fireworks are far from over.

German court denies Apple request for preliminary ban on Galaxy Tab 10.1N and Galaxy Nexus sales originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 01 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink Electronista | Bloomberg | Email this | Comments

Meet Spark, the 200 euro slate packing Linux-based Plasma Active UX

Michael Gorman — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 04:14:00 EDT

As we all know, the Kindle Fire's hot, Apple's selling bushels of iPads, and there's plenty of Honeycomb slates out there for you to choose from, but what if you want a tablet free from corporate influence? Enter Spark, a seven-inch slate that comes running the Plasma Active UX, an open-source OS based on Linux kernel, KDE's multi-platform Plasma environment and a dash of Qt for good measure. Now, this isn't just a consumer tablet -- Spark's aimed at "those who love writing great software... using the typical Linux tools" -- but it will offer access to ebooks from Project Gutenberg, plus Qt and QML apps, too. It's powered by a 1GHz AMLogic ARM processor, has a Mali-400 GPU and comes with 512MB of RAM, 4GB of internal storage, plus an SD card slot for future expansion. Modest underpinnings, to be sure, but for €200 ($262), you can't expect quad core silicon, right? Naturally, order and delivery dates remain a mystery, but plenty of other info about the open-source slate can be found at the source below.

Meet Spark, the 200 euro slate packing Linux-based Plasma Active UX originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 01 Feb 2012 04:14:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink Ars Technica | Aaron J. Siego | Email this | Comments

Megaupload users' data to be kept another two weeks, EFF to help folks retrieve it

Michael Gorman — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 21:19:00 EDT

Megaupload's digital doors may have been closed due to the presence of pirated materials, but there's still the matter of all that legal content residing on its servers. Naturally, folks want their files back, but now that the government's gotten what it needs, the hosting companies no longer need to keep the data around because Megaupload's no longer paying them to do so. Carpathia Hosting and Cogent Communications, however, have decided to preserve the data for another two weeks while a deal is brokered with the DOJ for its release. In the meantime, the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) has teamed up with Carpathia to create a website that puts folks in touch with EFF attorneys so users can try to retrieve their data. No word as to what legal wrangling the EFF can do to make it happen, but those affected can get the wheels of justice started at the source below.

Megaupload users' data to be kept another two weeks, EFF to help folks retrieve it originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 21:19:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink The Inquirer, CNET | MegaRetrieval.com | Email this | Comments

MasterCard reveals roadmap for our electronic payment future: EMV in, magnetic strips out

Michael Gorman — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 05:42:00 EDT

It's been over fifteen years since MasterCard, Visa and Europay developed EMV technology to make your credit cards more secure, but it has yet to really catch on here in the US. However, MasterCard has created a master plan to help usher in the EMV era and sound the death knell for the magnetic strip. Why? The EMV infrastructure is far more fraud-resistant because each transaction is authenticated dynamically using cryptographic algorithms and a user-specific PIN. That's why MasterCard plans to help build out the EMV POS infrastructure by April of next year and have its secure e-payment system functioning at ATMs, online and with its myriad mobile payment options as well. For now, the nuts and bolts of how the credit card firm plans to bring its plan to fruition are few, but more details will be forthcoming, and there's a bit more info at the source and PR below.

Continue reading MasterCard reveals roadmap for our electronic payment future: EMV in, magnetic strips out

MasterCard reveals roadmap for our electronic payment future: EMV in, magnetic strips out originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 05:42:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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APK puts Windows 95, 98 and XP, plus Linux on the EVO 3D

Michael Gorman — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 22:12:00 EDT

And here you thought Microsoft bringing Windows 8 to ARM was big news. Turns out, a member of the xda-developers forum has managed to make an APK that puts a variety of Redmond's x86 operating systems on the HTC EVO 3D and its 1.2 GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon silicon -- Windows 95, 98, XP and even your favorite flavor of Linux are all available for the three dee-equipped handset. All you need to do is install the Bochs Pentium emulator APK and the OS disk image of your choice, modify a couple files, and you'll be doing yesteryear's desktop computing on a handheld in no time. Feeling nostalgic? Detailed instructions how to do it yourself and the necessary files can be found at the source link below, but all we want to know is: does it do the blue screen of death or the force close dance when things go awry?

APK puts Windows 95, 98 and XP, plus Linux on the EVO 3D originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 30 Jan 2012 22:12:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink xda-developers, Ubergizmo | xda-developers forum | Email this | Comments

US Navy ship-mounted railgun closer to reality, Raytheon and others to make it happen

Michael Gorman — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 16:25:00 EDT

Ah, the railgun. Previously a flight of fancy fit only for wars in works of science fiction, the ultimate in electromagnetic weaponry is one step closer to becoming a reality for the US Navy. We've seen the system working well in the lab, but Raytheon has just gotten $10 million to create the pulse-forming network needed to get a railgun flinging projectiles off the deck of a Naval warship. Making such a network isn't easy, as it must store massive amounts of energy in a small enough package that it can be "used in a modular and versatile way for multiple platforms" -- so that some day, even dinghies will have 33-megajoule stopping power on board. In addition to Raytheon's pulse-forming framework project, the Navy has already tasked BAE and General Atomics to design tactical technologies that'll get future railguns firing up to ten rounds per minute. When can we expect to see such kinetic weapons on the high seas? The goal is 2025, but naturally, finances and politics will dictate its date of deployment, so keep your fingers crossed it's sooner, rather than later.

US Navy ship-mounted railgun closer to reality, Raytheon and others to make it happen originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 30 Jan 2012 16:25:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink CNET | Raytheon | Email this | Comments

Motorola starts selling WiFi Xyboards for $400 and up

Michael Gorman — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 03:11:00 EDT

What's that? You want an eight or ten inch WiFi tab, but failed to place your pre-order for one of Moto's latest earlier this month? Worry not, slate-seeking friend, for both the WiFi Xyboard 8.2 and 10.1 are officially on sale at Motorola's website, with free two-day shipping thrown in for good measure. As a quick refresher, the 8.2 comes in 16 and 32GB flavors for $400 and $500, respectively, while the same amount of memory in the 10-inch form factor will set you back $100 more. Sound good? Head on down to the source links below, credit card at the ready, and Moto will gladly send one your way.

Motorola starts selling WiFi Xyboards for $400 and up originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 29 Jan 2012 03:11:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Motorola (8.2), (10.1) | Email this | Comments

IBM builds 9 nanometer carbon nanotube transistor, puts silicon on notice

Michael Gorman — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 00:34:00 EDT

It's not the smallest transistor out there, but the boffins at IBM have constructed the tiniest carbon nanotube transistor to date. It's nine nanometers in size, making it one nanometer smaller than the presumed physical limit of silicon transistors. Plus, it consumes less power and is able to carry more current than present-day technology. The researchers accomplished the trick by laying a nanotube on a thin layer of insulation, and using a two-step process -- involving some sort of black magic, no doubt -- to add the electrical gates inside. The catch? (There's always a catch) Manufacturing pure batches of semiconducting nanotubes is difficult, as is aligning them in such a way that the transistors can function. So, it'll be some time before the technology can compete with Intel's 3D silicon, but at least we're one step closer to carbon-based computing.

IBM builds 9 nanometer carbon nanotube transistor, puts silicon on notice originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 28 Jan 2012 00:34:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink Technology Review | Nano Letters | Email this | Comments

Sony reveals new 3G/WiFi PS Vita bundles: free data, PSN games and memory cards for everyone

Michael Gorman — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 16:41:00 EDT

Sony's PlayStation Vita hasn't exactly sold like hotcakes over in Japan, so the company has sweetened the pot for the portable's potential Stateside buyers. Those who placed pre-orders will get a couple of extra goodies for their $350. To go with the previously promised limited edition case, 4GB memory card and copy of Little Deviants, you'll also receive 250MB of data from AT&T and a PlayStation Network game gratis as soon as you activate 3G on the device. Furthermore, folks buying a Vita on launch day can look forward to the same free data and PSN game, plus an 8GB memory card in exchange for their $300. So, that enough to get you on the handheld's bandwagon? Sound off in the comments below.

Sony reveals new 3G/WiFi PS Vita bundles: free data, PSN games and memory cards for everyone originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 27 Jan 2012 16:41:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink Joystiq | PlayStation Blog | Email this | Comments

Samsung 2011 Q4 earnings official: $42 billion in sales, $4.7 billion operating profit

Michael Gorman — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 19:37:00 EDT

It might not be making as much money as the competition in Cupertino, but that doesn't mean Samsung isn't raking in cash at an astonishing clip. We reported earnings estimates a few weeks ago, but now it's official that the firm posted a 5.3 trillion won ($4.7 billion) operating profit in Q4 2011. That represents over a 2 trillion won ($1.8 billion) increase year over year. In all, it pulled in 47.3 trillion won ($42 billion) in sales, thanks in no small part to the over 300 million phones Sammy sold last year. While mobile accounted for roughly 40 percent of company sales and half of its operating profit (2.6 trillion won, or $2.3 billion), its semiconductor business did almost as well, raking in 2.3 trillion won ($2 billion) in profit over the same period. Samsung's Display Panel business outperformed 2010 -- buoyed by strong sales in LED televisions -- as sales were up almost 20 percent, to 8.55 trillion won ($7.6 billion).

Well the call just finished up, and Sammy provided some prognosication for 2012. It anticipates the mobile business to continue to grow, with LTE and and new market segments (read: Galaxy Note) helping drive sales. TV sales are also expected to remain on the uptick, as Samsung anticipates demand to continue growing due in part to the London Olympics and roll-out of more Smart TVs. Feel free to check out all the numbers giving Samsung reason for its optimism at the source link below.

Samsung 2011 Q4 earnings official: $42 billion in sales, $4.7 billion operating profit originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 26 Jan 2012 19:37:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Samsung (PDF) | Email this | Comments