Engadget http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Wikipad's Android tablet amps up with Gaikai game streaming, quad-core, 10-inch screen]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/03/wikipad-android-gaming-tablet-adds-gaikai/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/03/wikipad-android-gaming-tablet-adds-gaikai/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/03/wikipad-android-gaming-tablet-adds-gaikai/#comments Image

Wikipad's Android 4.0 gaming tablet still hasn't received a definitive release date despite having just half a season left to meet its launch target, but that hasn't stopped its creator from boosting the feature set. When the tablet does arrive, it will now bake in Gaikai's game streaming service for you to start playing games as soon as the shrink wrap's off the box. In return for the long wait since CES, Wikipad is also giving its slate a heavy makeover: the 8.1-inch screen is ballooning to 10.1 inches, while a lighter body will carry an unnamed quad-core processor and an option for 3G. Otherwise, you're looking at much of the same formula that first emerged in January, which includes traditional gamepad-like controls on either side as well as front and back cameras, 1080p video support and 8GB of space to store your games when you don't want to bring a microSD card. We're looking forward to getting our paws on those dual analog sticks soon, but for now you can check the news release after the break.

Continue reading Wikipad's Android tablet amps up with Gaikai game streaming, quad-core, 10-inch screen

Wikipad's Android tablet amps up with Gaikai game streaming, quad-core, 10-inch screen originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 03 May 2012 05:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidAndroid 4.0Android4.0entertainmentgaikaigaikai-game-servicegamegame streaminggamesGameStreaminggaminggaming tabletGamingTabletInternetquad corequad-coreQuadCorestreamingtablettabletswikipadwikipad tabletWikipadTabletThu, 03 May 2012 05:03:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: Nintendo 3DS firmware update now live in North America]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/25/3ds-firmware-update/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/25/3ds-firmware-update/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/25/3ds-firmware-update/#comments Image

If your 3DS' home screen is looking a little too cluttered, then today's your lucky day. Nintendo is rolling out the firmware update that adds folders to your folder. (You've gotta fold the console closed, geddit?) The only other change evident so far is a redesigned eShop interface that makes better use of the screen's real estate, but pssh, who cares? It's all about the folders for us.

PSA: Nintendo 3DS firmware update now live in North America originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 25 Apr 2012 05:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3DSeShopFirmwarefirmware updateFirmwareUpdateFoldersminipostNintendoNintendo 3DSNintendo DirectNintendo eShopNintendo3dsNintendoDirectNintendoEshopSatoru IwataSatoruIwataWed, 25 Apr 2012 05:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo puts 3DS in the Louvre, France remains generally indifferent]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/12/3ds-louvre/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/12/3ds-louvre/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/12/3ds-louvre/#comments Image
Sharing a birthplace with Arséne Wenger, Jean-Paul Satre and Jules Verne, the Louvre is France's most prized national treasure. In partnership with Nintendo, the museum finally replaced those cumbersome handheld guides with 3DS units a fortnight after the anticipated March launch. The consoles will provide a variety of tours, offering detailed lectures around the entire museum, or the Cliff's Notes edition for the lazy connoisseur. Shigeru Miyamoto popped up to demonstrate that you can examine HD snaps and 3D images of the sculptures on show, just in case looking up and seeing it in the flesh stone would be too traumatic.

Continue reading Nintendo puts 3DS in the Louvre, France remains generally indifferent

Nintendo puts 3DS in the Louvre, France remains generally indifferent originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 12 Apr 2012 13:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsappapplicationartart museumArtMuseumaudio guideAudioGuideconsolefrancefrenchguideipadLouvremuseumNintendonintendo 3dsNintendo3dsparisShigeru MiyamotoShigeruMiyamotosmartphonetablettourismtouristThu, 12 Apr 2012 13:43:00 EST<![CDATA[Shigeru Miyamoto admits he's a fan of Angry Birds, just like the rest of us]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/12/shigeru-miyamoto-angry-birds/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/12/shigeru-miyamoto-angry-birds/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/12/shigeru-miyamoto-angry-birds/#comments Miyamoto likes Angry BirdsMario and Zelda (amongst others) creator Shigeru Miyamoto was in Paris to promote the launch of the Nintendo 3DS as a guide in the Louvre. While company executives have previously dismissed and decried smartphone gaming, Miyamoto was asked about his favorite non-Nintendo game and for the first time, admitted that Angry Birds is his favorite. He said that he can tell Rovio is "having fun developing the game" and that it has a "very creative side," that was "inspiring us to try even harder, and create even more unexpected new things." Except for those moments when he steps into the hallway for a spot of pig-smashing, as you do.

Shigeru Miyamoto admits he's a fan of Angry Birds, just like the rest of us originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 12 Apr 2012 12:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Angry BirdsAngryBirdsBusinessGames IndustryGamesIndustryHandheld GamingHandheldGamingLouvreMobile GamingMobileGamingmobilepostcrossNintendo 3DSNintendo 3DS LouvreNintendo3dsNintendo3dsLouvreParisRovioShigeru MiyamotoShigeruMiyamotoThu, 12 Apr 2012 12:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony pulls another game from PlayStation Store after new Vita exploit found]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/28/sony-psvita-exploit/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/28/sony-psvita-exploit/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/28/sony-psvita-exploit/#commentsImageSony's withdrawn Everybody's Tennis from the PlayStation Store after discovering it could be used to hack the PS Vita. The game was pulled without warning (probably to the consternation of tennis fans) as the company attempts to keep absolute control on its new platform. It's the second title to get the treatment after hacker Wololo discovered an exploit in Motorstorm Arctic Edge that allowed the Vita Half-Byte-loader to be launched on the device. It looks like the game of cat-and-mouse between massive corporation and a single individual will continue for a while, with Wololo claiming they've got access to around 10 more undiscovered exploits. Popcorn, anyone?

Sony pulls another game from PlayStation Store after new Vita exploit found originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 28 Mar 2012 09:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Everybodys TennisEverybodysTennishackhomebrewmotorstormplaystation vitaPlaystationVitaps vitapspPsVitaSonyvideovitawololoWed, 28 Mar 2012 09:44:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation Suite open to all developers from April, full SDK coming 'later']]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/07/playstation-suite-open-to-all-developers-from-april-full-sdk-co/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/07/playstation-suite-open-to-all-developers-from-april-full-sdk-co/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/07/playstation-suite-open-to-all-developers-from-april-full-sdk-co/#comments PlayStation Suite open to all developers from AprilIt's been many months since we first heard about this PlayStation SDK, which entered closed beta for a chosen few back in November. Now we're told the open beta will arrive in April, allowing any interested developer to create content for the PS Suite, which will ultimately be accessible to all PlayStation-certified Android smartphones and tablets as well as the PS Vita. This beta of the SDK will be free of charge, while the official version will come "later this year" and require a $99 annual subscription in return for allowing devs to make their wares commercially available on Sony's platform. This should herald good times for users too: People still have to go to crazy lengths just to access homebrew on their Sony handheld.

Continue reading PlayStation Suite open to all developers from April, full SDK coming 'later'

PlayStation Suite open to all developers from April, full SDK coming 'later' originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 04:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>devdeveloperdevelopmentmobilepostcrossopen sourceOpenSourceplaystation suitePlaystationSuitesdkSoftware Development KitSoftwareDevelopmentKitsonysony playstationsony playstation suiteSonyPlaystationSonyPlaystationSuiteWed, 07 Mar 2012 04:39:00 EST<![CDATA[PS Vita homebrew loader arrives today, but only if you have this hard-to-get game (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/02/ps-vita-homebrew-loader-arrives-today/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/02/ps-vita-homebrew-loader-arrives-today/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/02/ps-vita-homebrew-loader-arrives-today/#comments ...And here's the catch: the game you need is Motorstorm Arctic Edge (or 'Raging Ice' in Japan), and it appears to have already been pulled from the PS Store. Besides, it was never compatible with US-registered Vitas in the first place. Nevertheless, if you happen to have bought this old PSP title for your Vita already, then this may just work. Hacker Wololo claims that later today he'll release Vita Half Byte Loader files, which will give you a "limited PSP homebrew experience" on your lovely new handheld -- and indeed we've already seen it playing Sega Genesis titles. The hack supposedly uses an exploit in this particular Motorstorm title -- but since Sony is already on VHBL's tracks, who knows if it'll really work or how long it'll last? Video evidence after the break.

[Thanks, Patrick]

Continue reading PS Vita homebrew loader arrives today, but only if you have this hard-to-get game (video)

PS Vita homebrew loader arrives today, but only if you have this hard-to-get game (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 02 Mar 2012 04:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hackhomebrewmotorstormplaystation vitaPlaystationVitaps vitapspPsVitavideovitawololoFri, 02 Mar 2012 04:50:00 EST<![CDATA[PS Vita Facebook app officially resurfaces, available for download (again)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/01/ps-vita-facebook-app-officially-resurfaces-available-for-downlo/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/01/ps-vita-facebook-app-officially-resurfaces-available-for-downlo/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/01/ps-vita-facebook-app-officially-resurfaces-available-for-downlo/#comments If you were lucky enough to snag the free Facebook app for the PS Vita last week while it was briefly available, you probably found its performance balky, at best. Shortly thereafter, Sony unsurprisingly pulled it from the PlayStation Store, noting issues stemming from Facebook's side of town. Well, good news just came in from Sony's PlayStation Twitter account -- Zuckerberg's app is "fully restored" and ready for your downloading pleasure. Facebook's relationship with Vita OS will, hopefully, be less "complicated" this time around, but let us know how it's working for you in the comments.

PS Vita Facebook app officially resurfaces, available for download (again) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 01 Mar 2012 21:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appfacebookMark ZuckerbergMarkZuckerbergPlayStationPlayStation Storeplaystation store usplaystation vitaPlaystationStorePlaystationStoreUsPlaystationVitaps vitaPsVitasceasocial networkingSocialNetworkingSONYusvitaThu, 01 Mar 2012 21:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Foursquare PS Vita app hits US PlayStation Store, gives you another reason to consider 3G]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/28/foursquare-ps-vita-app-hits-us-playstation-store/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/28/foursquare-ps-vita-app-hits-us-playstation-store/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/28/foursquare-ps-vita-app-hits-us-playstation-store/#comments Good news for all you socially connected (and hip) regulars of local retail establishments -- who have PS Vitas, of course. Sony's just announced that the free Foursquare app has officially landed at the PlayStation Store (US), and it can be yours for a paltry 4.5MBs of space on your precious proprietary memory card. The app works over WiFi, however, the fine print advises that users may want to use 3G for the best results to help alongside the Vita's GPS. Notably, the rear touchpad and cameras are listed as being compatible with the app, as well. We've poked around the app for a few minutes, and it does feel peppy compared to what we experienced with Facebook (while it was available, anyway) -- the only oddity that's arisen lies with the map functionality, which opens a Google Maps page within the Vita's browser rather than its Maps app. Now that we can watch Netflix over WiFi, and view our Flickr albums along with Tweeting and "Checking In" between our ModNation racing tours, how's about finally letting us get our Skype on? (P.S. We'd really like Facebook back in the store, too!)

Gallery: Foursquare PS Vita app (screenshots)

Foursquare PS Vita app hits US PlayStation Store, gives you another reason to consider 3G originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 28 Feb 2012 21:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3gappcheck inCheckInfoursquarefreemayorpis vita appsPisVitaAppsplaystationplaystation storeplaystation store usPlaystationStorePlaystationStoreUsps storeps vitaps vita foursquareps vita foursquare appPsStorePsVitaPsVitaFoursquarePsVitaFoursquareAppsceasocial networksocial networkingSocialNetworkSocialNetworkingsonyTue, 28 Feb 2012 21:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony updates PS Vita sales figures: 'over 1.2 million units worldwide', 2 million in software]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/28/sony-updates-ps-vita-sales-figures-over-1-2-million-units-worl/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/28/sony-updates-ps-vita-sales-figures-over-1-2-million-units-worl/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/28/sony-updates-ps-vita-sales-figures-over-1-2-million-units-worl/#comments As of recently, the PS Vita has become available in the locales of America, Europe and PAL territories, and now Sony's updated sales figures are in. How does "over 1.2 million units worldwide" sound? Because that's how many systems were purchased as of February 26th. If you'll recall, just two days after its December 19th arrival in Japan, the Vita rushed out of the gate, with Sony citing 321,000 units sold. Sales quickly slowed, however, despite the system making its way across Asia, as that number only rose to 500,000 by the time CES hit in January. Considering that means an additional 700K+ units were moved in less than two months, it seems that Sony's latest handheld isn't doing too shabby. Furthermore, it looks like a healthy amount of early adopters stocked up on games, as Sony also noted that more than two million pieces of software have been sold (out of 25 currently available titles) via retail and the PlayStation Store -- that said, there's no telling how popular those slightly cheaper digital editions have proved. Hit up the press release after the break for all the details, courtesy of the House of Kevin Butler Kaz Hirai.

Continue reading Sony updates PS Vita sales figures: 'over 1.2 million units worldwide', 2 million in software

Sony updates PS Vita sales figures: 'over 1.2 million units worldwide', 2 million in software originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 28 Feb 2012 19:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>digital downloadsDigitalDownloadsgamesgaminghandheldsngpplaystationplaystation storeplaystation vitaPlaystationStorePlaystationVitaps vitaPsVitasalessceasceesoftwaresonySony Computer EntertainmentSonyComputerEntertainmentvideogamesTue, 28 Feb 2012 19:31:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation Vita Facebook app pulled for repairs, Sony blames house of Zuckerberg]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/24/playstation-vita-facebook-app-pulled-for-repairs-sony-blames-ho/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/24/playstation-vita-facebook-app-pulled-for-repairs-sony-blames-ho/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/24/playstation-vita-facebook-app-pulled-for-repairs-sony-blames-ho/#comments After a short, two day stint on Sony's next generation portable, Facebook's Vita app has been pulled from the PSN store. According to a post on the official PlayStation Forums (EU), users were encountering an error code while trying to log into the popular social network, forcing them to close the application. Community team leader PadPoet says the error is a "Facebook specific issue (on their side)," and that the two outfits are working on a solution. "We will announce further details when ready," a Sony rep told Joystiq. Hopefully the app will make a triumphant return shortly, though it's absence doesn't make cripple the handheld's social aspiration's completely -- after all, there's always Twitter.

PlayStation Vita Facebook app pulled for repairs, Sony blames house of Zuckerberg originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 24 Feb 2012 17:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appfacebookMark ZuckerbergMarkZuckerbergminipostPlayStationPlayStation Storeplaystation store usPlaystationStorePlaystationStoreUsps vitaPsVitasceasocial networkingSocialNetworkingSONYusvitaFri, 24 Feb 2012 17:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Facebook PS Vita app hits US PlayStation Store]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/22/facebook-ps-vita-app-hits-us-playstation-store/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/22/facebook-ps-vita-app-hits-us-playstation-store/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/22/facebook-ps-vita-app-hits-us-playstation-store/#comments Although the PlayStation Vita's official US launch brought with it the pleasures of LiveTweeting, WiFi-only Netflix access and Flickr's photo-based networking, its Facebook, Foursquare and Skype apps were curiously absent. Today that's partially changed, however, as Sony's announced that the service that Zuckerberg built is now available as a free 12MB download from the PlayStation Store (on the wall of its PlayStation Facebook profile no less). We've gained access to the social network without a hitch, so be sure to let us know how it goes on your side of the screen in the comments. Hopefully it's more pleasing than AR table soccer.

Gallery: PS Vita Facebook app screenshots (US)



[Thanks, Mauricio]

Facebook PS Vita app hits US PlayStation Store originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 22:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appfacebookMark ZuckerbergMarkZuckerbergminipostplaystationPlayStation Storeplaystation store usPlaystationStorePlaystationStoreUsps vitaPsVitasceasocial networkingSocialNetworkingSONYusvitaWed, 22 Feb 2012 22:43:00 EST<![CDATA[SCEA Senior VP hints Hulu may be headed to PS Vita]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/22/hulu-may-be-headed-to-playstation-vita/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/22/hulu-may-be-headed-to-playstation-vita/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/22/hulu-may-be-headed-to-playstation-vita/#comments SCEA Senior VP hints Hulu app may be headed to PS Vita
By now, we're sure you have that shiny new PlayStation Vita all unboxed and have logged several hours on the thing playing games, Tweeting and watching vids on Netflix. But, if those apps we told you about earlier weren't enough to fulfill your entertainment needs, you'll be happy to know there could be more in stock for you. SCEA Senior VP Guy Longworth may have spilled the beans when he told The Hollywood Reporter "we have a partnership with Netflix and Hulu; this is a new way for them to distribute content." An interesting statement given the fact there's no Hulu app available now that Vita has launched. Good news is, the previously unknown hook-up indicates we may be be able to catch some episodes of Gossip Girl at some point in the future on our monstrous quad-core handheld.

SCEA Senior VP hints Hulu may be headed to PS Vita originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 18:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appapplicationappsguy longworthhuluhulu apphulu plusplaystationplaystation vitaplaystation vita huluportable gamingpsps vitaps vita appsps vita hulusceavitaWed, 22 Feb 2012 18:13:00 EST<![CDATA['Select' PS Vita apps hit the US PlayStation Store: Netflix, LiveTweet and Flickr (Update: video hands-on)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/22/select-ps-vita-apps-hit-the-us-playstation-store-netflix-liv/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/22/select-ps-vita-apps-hit-the-us-playstation-store-netflix-liv/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/22/select-ps-vita-apps-hit-the-us-playstation-store-netflix-liv/#comments Did you just brave the lines of a midnight launch party and snag yourself a PS Vita in the US? Good news ye early adopters, Sony's PlayStation.Blog.US has just announced that select free apps will be available as part of today's PlayStation Store update. Currently, you'll find Netflix, LiveTweet and Flickr, but there's still nary of trace of Facebook or Foursquare among the bunch (nor any official word on release dates for that matter). We gave each app a download and quick spin prior to them being officially listed without much in the way of hiccups -- however, Netflix does take its sweet time to start-up. Disappointingly, Vita's 20MB cap on 3G data is totally in effect on Netflix, as switching to our cellular connection denied us any access to the service. We're giving the apps some extended use to bring you our initial impressions shortly, but for now, you'll find more info at the source link below.

Update: We've added gallery below and a brief video hands-on just past the break to let you grab a taste of each app before downloading them for yourself.

Gallery: PS Vita apps: Netflix, LiveTweet and Flickr (US)

Continue reading 'Select' PS Vita apps hit the US PlayStation Store: Netflix, LiveTweet and Flickr (Update: video hands-on)

'Select' PS Vita apps hit the US PlayStation Store: Netflix, LiveTweet and Flickr (Update: video hands-on) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 01:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsflickrgaminghands-onlive tweetlivetweetnetflixplaystationplaystation blogplaystation blog usplaystation storeplaystation vitaPlaystationBlogPlaystationBlogUsPlaystationStorePlaystationVitaportable gamingportableaudioPortableGamingps vitaps vita appsPsVitaPsVitaAppssceasonytwitterusvideoWed, 22 Feb 2012 01:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Canadian gets PlayStation Vita early thanks to faith, good works]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/10/canadian-gets-playstation-vita-early-thanks-to-faith-good-works/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/10/canadian-gets-playstation-vita-early-thanks-to-faith-good-works/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/10/canadian-gets-playstation-vita-early-thanks-to-faith-good-works/#comments Today's lucky beggar award goes to Graham Innes in Canada, who wrote in to tell us that he found a PlayStation Vita sitting on his doorstep. It wasn't a total surprise, since he'd ordered one from Amazon, but what's weird is just how soon it arrived -- the early-bird First Edition doesn't launch until February 15th and the general release is a whole week after that. We're not sure what Graham did to deserve this, but we do know from our Joystiq buddies that he's not the only one -- Amazon.ca has apparently sent out a few of these premature parcels. If the injustice burns, console yourself with the thought that Graham and his blessed compatriots probably can't access the store to download any games.

Update: Graham emailed again. He has store access. He has games. Joyousness.

Canadian gets PlayStation Vita early thanks to faith, good works originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 07:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonamazon.cacanadaearlyearly-birdgames consoleGamesConsolegraham innesGrahamInneshandheldNGPplaystation vitaPlaystationVitaps vitaPSPPsVitasonysony playstation vitasony ps vitaSonyPlaystationVitaSonyPsVitavitaFri, 10 Feb 2012 07:24:00 EST<![CDATA[No discounted UMD transfers to Vita for US, angel loses its wings]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/08/no-discounted-umd-passport-transfers-to-vita-for-us-psp/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/08/no-discounted-umd-passport-transfers-to-vita-for-us-psp/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/08/no-discounted-umd-passport-transfers-to-vita-for-us-psp/#comments No discounted UMD transfers to Vita for US, angel loses its wings
Hey, America ... no soup for you! Vita apparently means no discounted downloads of your beloved disc-based PSP games as Kotaku reports Sony won't be offering its "UMD Passport" service in the US. Since December, Sony has let existing Japanese PSP owners upgrade UMD games to Vita downloadable copies for around ¥500-1,000 ($6.50 - $13). Penny-pinching US gamers can perhaps console themselves with the fact that they can still get a discount for digital downloads of Vita games. Well, that or make hungry eyes for free at Vitas displayed in kiosks at select stores.

No discounted UMD transfers to Vita for US, angel loses its wings originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 03:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>discountjapanplaystationplaystation vitaPlaystationVitaportable gamingPortableGamingps vitapsppsp downloadsPspDownloadspsvPsVitasonysony playstationsony PSPsony vitaSonyPlaystationSonyPspSonyVitaumdUMD vitaUmdVitavita downloadsvita passportVitaDownloadsVitaPassportWed, 08 Feb 2012 03:11:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony PlayStation Vita charging accessories detailed in Japan]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/07/sony-playstation-vita-charging-accessories-detailed-in-japan/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/07/sony-playstation-vita-charging-accessories-detailed-in-japan/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/07/sony-playstation-vita-charging-accessories-detailed-in-japan/#commentsSony's website now lists Japanese release dates and prices for two PS Vita power accessories that you're likely to need. The PCH-ZPC1 J portable charger is a 135g (4.8-ounce) unit that takes seven hours to charge to its full 5,000mAh capacity and is then good for around one and half charges of your console -- we reckon that'd equate to over 12 hours of mixed-use sessions or at least seven hours of solid gaming. It'll be out on April 5th for ¥4,500 ($60). Meanwhile, the PCH-ZCA1 J car charger will hit retailers a couple of weeks earlier on March 22nd priced at ¥1,500 ($20) -- and there's really not much more to say about it except that a dead Vita on a road trip would be both a travesty and an oxymoron. Oh, just in case it hasn't already been etched into your memory, February 22nd is launch day in the US and Europe.

Sony PlayStation Vita charging accessories detailed in Japan originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 05:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessoriesaccessories-mainbatterybattery packBatteryPackcar adaptercar chargerCarAdapterCarChargerchargerchargingPCH-ZCA1 JPch-zca1JPCH-ZPC1 JPch-zpc1JPlaySation VitaPlaysationVitaplaystation vitaPlaystationVitaportable batteryportable chargerPortableBatteryPortableChargerpower accessoriesPowerAccessoriesps vitaPsVitasonysony playstation vitasony ps vitaSonyPlaystationVitaSonyPsVitavitaTue, 07 Feb 2012 05:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony PS Vita demo hardware drops in at US GameStop locations, lets you go hands-on (update)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/05/sony-ps-vita-demo-hardware-drops-in-at-us-gamestop-locations-le/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/05/sony-ps-vita-demo-hardware-drops-in-at-us-gamestop-locations-le/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/05/sony-ps-vita-demo-hardware-drops-in-at-us-gamestop-locations-le/#comments http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/04/sony-ps-vita-demo-kiosks-at-us-gamestop-locations/
Live within the United State's borders? Fingers itching to spend some quality with Sony's latest portable gaming sensation before the First Edition Bundle lands on February 15th? Good news is here then, since GameStop has equipped "over 3,300" of its retail stores with PlayStation Vita demo kiosks. The rigs will allow you to score some quality hands-on time with many of its upcoming titles, including the likes of Uncharted: Golden Abyss and wipEout2048 -- perfect if you're not sure about reserving one just yet. Hit up the source link below to find a Vita-packing location near you, and don't forget to check out our review of the Japanese variant if you need even more help making up your mind in the meantime. Full press release after the break.

Update: We're hearing from many of you in the comments, noting you're finding Vitas at some GameStop locations locked-up, and for your eyes only. So heads-up: your mileage may vary. We also want to add that according to GameStop's website, it currently has 4,460 stores in US, meaning there's a very solid chance the one near you might not be included in the demo.

Update 2: Also worth note, a few other folks have mentioned that certain BestBuys will also let you get paws on one.

[Thanks for all the feedback, everyone.]

Continue reading Sony PS Vita demo hardware drops in at US GameStop locations, lets you go hands-on (update)

Sony PS Vita demo hardware drops in at US GameStop locations, lets you go hands-on (update) originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 05 Feb 2012 10:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>demo kioskDemoKioskfirst edition bundleFirstEditionBundlegamestopgaminghands onHandsOnngpplaystation vitaPlaystationVitaportable gamingPortableGamingpreorderps vitaps vita demoPsVitaPsVitaDemoreserveretailsceasonySun, 05 Feb 2012 10:49:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo Slide Pad for 3DS review]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/02/nintendo-slide-pad-for-3ds-review/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/02/nintendo-slide-pad-for-3ds-review/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/02/nintendo-slide-pad-for-3ds-review/#comments Nintendo Slide Pad for 3DS reviewFirst impressions stay with you. Take our first look at the Nintendo 3DS, for example. Our first thought? "Hey, where's the second analog stick?" Given all the gaming genres that benefit from it, it's almost unthinkable for a major portable console to launch without an extra analog stick. It's like Mario without the mustache, Charlie Sheen without the tiger blood or Donald Trump without the dead marsupial or whatever the heck that thing is on top of his head. Unfortunately, Nintendo decided to release the 3DS without that second analog. So folks who want to get their dual stick groove on right out of the box can only hope the Big N has a change of heart when it eventually releases the 3DSi Lite XL Advance. (We're just kidding about the name, of course, but you never know...) In the meantime, Nintendo's got a peace offering of sorts to tide by 3DS owners: the Circle Pad Pro. Slated for a February 2012 release in the US, we got our grubby hands on its Japanese equivalent, the "Slide Pad" during a trip to the Land of the Rising Sun. So is it worth the $20 price of admission? Read on to find out.

Gallery: Nintendo Slide Pad for 3DS review

Continue reading Nintendo Slide Pad for 3DS review

Nintendo Slide Pad for 3DS review originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3DScircle pad proCirclePadPromonster hunter 3GMonsterHunter3gnintendonintendo 3DSNintendo3dsresident evilresident evil revelationsResidentEvilResidentEvilRevelationsreviewslide padSlide pad proSlidePadSlidePadProThu, 02 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SNK's new Neo Geo: 20 retro classics in one modern handheld]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/25/snks-new-neo-geo-20-retro-classics-in-one-modern-handheld/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/25/snks-new-neo-geo-20-retro-classics-in-one-modern-handheld/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/25/snks-new-neo-geo-20-retro-classics-in-one-modern-handheld/#comments We rubbed our eyes a little when they first landed on this fine looking specimen, just to make sure they weren't deceiving us. But no, this really does appear to be a new handheld Neo Geo. We've seen SNK make inspired controllers, bring its catalog to other platforms and even make handhelds before, but nothing like this. The iPhone-esque body and 4.3 inch screen house a D-pad, shoulder and front buttons while hiding 2GB of storage inside -- pre-loaded with 20 classic titles (yes Fatal Fury and League Bowling included, and all in English). There's also an SD slot which we really really hope is for more games, as well as an AV output for some good old big-screen action. Famicon Plaza claims it's a licensed product not yet in full production, so there's no whiff of availability just now. When it does finally land, we hope it's not at a 2012 equivalent of grandad's $600+ price tag.

Gallery: SNK Neo Geo portable

SNK's new Neo Geo: 20 retro classics in one modern handheld originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 25 Jan 2012 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>classicsfatal furyFatalFurygamesgaminghand heldHandHeldjapanneo geoneo geo portableNeoGeoNeoGeoPortableportableretrosnkWed, 25 Jan 2012 10:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Theatrhythm Final Fantasy box points to first paid DLC for Nintendo 3DS]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/22/theatrhythm-final-fantasy-box-first-paid-dlc-for-nintendo-3ds/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/22/theatrhythm-final-fantasy-box-first-paid-dlc-for-nintendo-3ds/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/22/theatrhythm-final-fantasy-box-first-paid-dlc-for-nintendo-3ds/#comments3DS owners have been waiting (and waiting) for a chance to take advantage of a downloadable content market, and while Nintendo already accomplished the tough part (read: launching it) a few days back, there's still been no word on when paid content would make an appearance. Pushing those freebies aside is Theatrhythm Final Fantasy, which is seemingly destined to be the first 3DS title in existence to offer up enhancements in exchange for a few yen. The box here is actually an "early retail dummy unit," though the verbiage on the back makes quite clear that downloadable material will be available at a cost. Furthermore, there's a heretofore unseen Nintendo Network badge on the front, which may be a new look for the existing Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection. At any rate, the game is scheduled to ship on February 16th in Japan, after which all of this will-it-won't-it drama will presumably be cleared up.

Theatrhythm Final Fantasy box points to first paid DLC for Nintendo 3DS originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 22 Jan 2012 23:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdlcdownloadable contentDownloadableContentFinal FantasyFinalFantasygaminghandheldhandheld gamingHandheldGamingjapanjapanesenintendonintendo 3dsnintendo networkNintendo3dsNintendoNetworkpaidpaid dlcPaidDlcportable gamingPortableGamingstoreTheatrhythmTheatrhythm Final FantasyTheatrhythmFinalFantasySun, 22 Jan 2012 23:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Kid Icarus: Uprising flies too close to the 3DS, gets bundled with a stand]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/13/kid-icarus-uprising-flies-too-close-to-the-3ds-gets-bundled-wi/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/13/kid-icarus-uprising-flies-too-close-to-the-3ds-gets-bundled-wi/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/13/kid-icarus-uprising-flies-too-close-to-the-3ds-gets-bundled-wi/#comments D'ya know what'd make up for a nineteen-year wait? Well, Project Sora thinks the answer is a plastic peripheral. Yes the long, long awaited Kid Icarus: Uprising looks like it'll be bundled with an official "Nintendo 3DS Stand," according to a tweet by the game's maker. It's no doubt a practical addition, as those analog-plus-touchscreen controls look like they'd make your arms tired -- which is probably what got Icarus in trouble in the first place. No word on price for the goods at this time or even if it'll travel across the pacific, but we're keeping our primary feathers crossed.

Update: We've gotten word that the stand will only be available in the bundle, at least for now. We'll let you know if we hear otherwise, but don't hold your breath for a standalone purchase option.

Kid Icarus: Uprising flies too close to the 3DS, gets bundled with a stand originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 13 Jan 2012 00:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsaccessoriesAccessorybundlegaminghandheldKid IcarusKid Icarus: UprisingKidIcarusKidIcarus:Uprisingminipostnintendonintendo 3dsnintendo 3ds standNintendo3dsNintendo3dsStandperipheralsstandFri, 13 Jan 2012 00:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Imagination Technologies unveils G6200 and G6400, first two GPUs based on PowerVR Series6]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/10/powervr-series6-g6200-and-6400/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/10/powervr-series6-g6200-and-6400/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/10/powervr-series6-g6200-and-6400/#comments First announced in February of last year, Imagination Technologies has officially announced the licensing availability of its first two GPUs based on the Series6 platform. The PowerVR G6200 and G6400 each promise to bring low power graphics to unprecedented levels and are said to deliver up to 20 times more horsepower than the current generation while also being five times more efficient. In tangible terms, the Series6 GPU cores are capable of exceeding 100 gigaflops and are said to approach the teraflop range. All chipsets based on Series6 are backward compatible with Series5 and fully support OpenGL 3.x, 4.x and ES, along with OpenCL 1.x and DirectX 10. Further, specific models will also support DirectX 11.1 with full WHQL compliance. Poised to shake up the mobile gaming ecosystem, Imagination has already lined up partners that include ST-Ericsson, Texas Instruments, Renesas Electronics and MediaTek. The full PR, complete with all the bragging, can be found after the break.

Continue reading Imagination Technologies unveils G6200 and G6400, first two GPUs based on PowerVR Series6

Imagination Technologies unveils G6200 and G6400, first two GPUs based on PowerVR Series6 originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 10 Jan 2012 14:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cesces 2012Ces2012directxdirectx 10directx 11.1Directx10Directx11.1G6200G6400Imagination TechnologiesImaginationTechnologiesMediaTekmobilepostcrossopenclopenglopengl esOpenglEsPowervrPowervr GpuPowervr Series 5Powervr Series 6PowervrGpuPowervrSeries5PowervrSeries6Renesas ElectronicsRenesasElectronicsST-EricssonTexas InstrumentsTexasInstrumentswhqlTue, 10 Jan 2012 14:54:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation Vita shown running Sega Genesis titles (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/02/playstation-vita-shown-running-sega-genesis-titles-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/02/playstation-vita-shown-running-sega-genesis-titles-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/02/playstation-vita-shown-running-sega-genesis-titles-video/#comments Still mulling whether or not to pick yourself up a PlayStation Vita? Obsessed with retro gaming titles? If you answered "yes" to both, you should probably start socking away a few extra coins, buster. YouTube user frwololo has just upped a video showcasing the Half Byte Loader running the Picodrive emulator on Sony's PS Vita -- the first major proof that this kind of wizardry is indeed a possibility. The nuts and bolts of how it happened are being kept under wraps for now, and he seems certain that Sony's inbuilt security will make the mod unusable as soon as it's released. That said, there's still a lot of hope to be found in the clip just after the break, and c'mon -- who doesn't need a little hope to kick off a year where we're all supposed to perish?

Continue reading PlayStation Vita shown running Sega Genesis titles (video)

PlayStation Vita shown running Sega Genesis titles (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 02 Jan 2012 13:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consoleemulationemulatorgaminggaming handheldGamingHandheldgenesishackhackedhomebrewhomebrew emulatorHomebrewEmulatorPicodriveplaystationplaystation portablePlaystationPortableps vitapsppsp vitaPspVitaPsVitaretroROMsegasega genesisSegaGenesisvideovintageMon, 02 Jan 2012 13:39:00 EST<![CDATA[The morning after: PlayStation Vita sales go cold during first full week in Japan]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/29/the-morning-after-playstation-vita-sales-go-cold-during-first-f/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/29/the-morning-after-playstation-vita-sales-go-cold-during-first-f/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/29/the-morning-after-playstation-vita-sales-go-cold-during-first-f/#comments It's hard to set much store by early sales performance, particularly after the evergreen 3DS faced such a rocky road. Nevertheless, the Vita's latest stats do look disappointing for such a highly anticipated -- not to mention high-quality -- console: after shifting a remarkable 321,000 units during its first two days on sale in Japan, it could only muster 72,500 in the whole week between December 19th and Christmas Day. In comparison, the PS3 sold 76,000 units during the same period, while the 3DS rang up half a million. This doesn't necessarily reflect a lack of interest, however: there have been stock shortages, and it's also possible that buyers are waiting to make sure that all the launch bugs get cleaned up. As for us, our alarms remain firmly set for February 22nd.

The morning after: PlayStation Vita sales go cold during first full week in Japan originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 29 Dec 2011 11:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consolegames consoleGamesConsolegaminggaming consoleGamingConsolehandheldJapanngpPlayStation VitaPlaystationVitaportableportable gamingPortableGamingPS VitaPsVitasalesVitaThu, 29 Dec 2011 11:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo introduces paid DLC, lets you complete the games you completed]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/27/nintendo-introduces-paid-dlc-lets-you-complete-the-games-you-co/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/27/nintendo-introduces-paid-dlc-lets-you-complete-the-games-you-co/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/27/nintendo-introduces-paid-dlc-lets-you-complete-the-games-you-co/#comments Did you get a Nintendo shaped bundle of joy for Christmas? Completed the games already? Fear not, as from March Kyoto's gaming veterans will be launching paid downloadable game content for its 3D handheld. The first title to get the goodies will be Fire Emblem, and as yet, there's no clues about what treats you'll get for the reported "several hundred yen" you'll be asked to stump up. Nintendo, however, is understandably keen to stimulate interest in its 3D titles, and more importantly, claw back some of that mobile gaming market-share. With hints of downloadable add-ons coming to the Wii-U also, and Mr. Iwata's previous commitment to deliver the goods, it clearly thinks this is the way to go -- let's just hope all the kinks have been ironed out come release day.

Nintendo introduces paid DLC, lets you complete the games you completed originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 27 Dec 2011 20:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dscontentDLCdownloadabledownloadable contentDownloadableContentfire emblemFireEmblemgamergaminghandheldhandheld gamingHandheldGamingkyotonintendonintendo 3dsNintendo3dsTue, 27 Dec 2011 20:25:00 EST<![CDATA[PS Vita gets first public unboxing treatment, leaves nothing to the imagination (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/16/ps-vita-gets-first-public-unboxing-treatment-leaves-nothing-to/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/16/ps-vita-gets-first-public-unboxing-treatment-leaves-nothing-to/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/16/ps-vita-gets-first-public-unboxing-treatment-leaves-nothing-to/#comments Sure, we've shown you a hands-on, but we know your brain's been working hard imagining what it's like to unwrap Sony's next-gen handheld. The PS Vita could easily be considered one of the -- if not the biggest -- teases of the gadgetverse; since it was first unveiled, it's only had time for a smattering of cameos. Regardless, no one is questioning the Vita's determination to be in as many wish lists as possible by its eventual 2012 release. Folks who tend to enjoy teasers can find precisely that just after the break.

Continue reading PS Vita gets first public unboxing treatment, leaves nothing to the imagination (video)

PS Vita gets first public unboxing treatment, leaves nothing to the imagination (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 16 Dec 2011 17:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>playstation vitaplaystation vita unboxingplaystation vita unboxing engadgetPlaystationVitaPlaystationVitaUnboxingPlaystationVitaUnboxingEngadgetpsps vitaps vita unboxingps vita unboxing engadgetPsVitaPsVitaUnboxingPsVitaUnboxingEngadgetsonysony ps vitaSonyPsVitaunboxingvideovita unboxingVitaUnboxingFri, 16 Dec 2011 17:12:00 EST<![CDATA[P.S. it's not a Vita: Yinlips' Android-based YDPG18]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/12/p-s-its-not-a-vita-yinlips-android-based-ydpg18/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/12/p-s-its-not-a-vita-yinlips-android-based-ydpg18/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/12/p-s-its-not-a-vita-yinlips-android-based-ydpg18/#comments Don't call it a KIRF -- it's a Yinlips "Android Smart Game Player." Which is to say, it's an Xperia Play-like experience wrapped in PS Vita clothing. So basically, yeah, it's a KIRF. This form factor doppelganger hails from China and lacks the internal quad-core pizazz of the Sony next generation handheld it purports to be. Instead of standing on the precipice of portable gaming, this 5-inch pretender will net you a hum drum FroYo / Gingerbread-based (even its own website couldn't decide) OS packed with a slew of old school gaming emulators (from NES to N64), an array of ports including HDMI, a single core 1.2GHz processor complemented by 512MB of DDR2 RAM and WiFi. It's a must have device for, well, no one. But if you're the type who likes to burn money and carry about a virtual collection of video games past, then by all means, import away.

P.S. it's not a Vita: Yinlips' Android-based YDPG18 originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 12 Dec 2011 19:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidChinaemulatorgamingKIRFknockoffvideo gamesVideoGamesYDPG18YinlipsMon, 12 Dec 2011 19:11:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo's 3DS slide pad gets unboxed in Japan, reveals massive 480 hour battery life]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/11/nintendos-3ds-slide-pad-gets-unboxed-in-japan-reveals-massive/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/11/nintendos-3ds-slide-pad-gets-unboxed-in-japan-reveals-massive/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/11/nintendos-3ds-slide-pad-gets-unboxed-in-japan-reveals-massive/#comments
Now that Nintendo's 3DS slide pad is hitting shelves in Japan, it appears that Mr. Blurrycam managed to get in on one owner's early unboxing. Glance at the contents strewn about above and you'll notice what looks to be a copy of Monster Hunter, the secondary joystick-adding peripheral itself and an included wrist strap. According to Andriasang, the owner reports that the add-on is stated to last a whopping 480 hours on its single AAA battery (for the unit itself), which makes the thought of dealing with its screw-secured compartment sting a bit less. Folks in the US will still have to wait until February 7th to experience the slide pad for themselves, but in the meantime, you can hit the source links below for more insight.

Nintendo's 3DS slide pad gets unboxed in Japan, reveals massive 480 hour battery life originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 11 Dec 2011 10:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsadd-onbatterycircle padcircle pad proCirclePadCirclePadProgaminghandheldjapannintendonintendo 3dsNintendo3dsperipheralportableportable gamingPortableGamingslide padSlidePadunboxingvideogamesSun, 11 Dec 2011 10:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Tamagotchi turns 15, wonders why you haven't fed it in a decade]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/23/tamagotchi-turns-15-wonders-why-you-havent-fed-it-in-a-decade/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/23/tamagotchi-turns-15-wonders-why-you-havent-fed-it-in-a-decade/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/23/tamagotchi-turns-15-wonders-why-you-havent-fed-it-in-a-decade/#comments Remember that little Tamagotchi you promised to always love and care for? When was the last time you fed the thing? Twelve years ago? The little guy's probably starving. Bandai's line of pocket pets turns 15 today -- the first Tamagotchi on sale November 23rd, 1996, becoming a downright phenomenon that proceeded to baffle parents everywhere. Since then, the attention demanding key chains have spawned several video games, a TV series and an animated movie. So go, break your Tamagotchi out of shoebox it's been living in for the past decade and treat it to a birthday meal and a driver's permit.

Tamagotchi turns 15, wonders why you haven't fed it in a decade originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 23 Nov 2011 13:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bandaiTamagotchitoysWed, 23 Nov 2011 13:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony limits PS Vita game save options, memory card definitely not optional]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/26/sony-limits-ps-vita-game-save-options-memory-card-definitely-no/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/26/sony-limits-ps-vita-game-save-options-memory-card-definitely-no/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/26/sony-limits-ps-vita-game-save-options-memory-card-definitely-no/#comments We say proprietary and you think, Sony. Isn't that how it usually goes? For the electronic giant's latest reVitalized foray into portable gaming, the same old custom solution is in tow -- now, with limited storage options. According to a report on Kotaku Japan, games made for the handheld will either save your progress to its SD card-like external storage or to the cartridge itself, as SCEI's not offering users any option for overlap or preference. Thinking you might save a few bucks and skip out on the external memory altogether? Well, my frugal gaming friends, think again. Unlike the PSP, titles for the system requiring an external save, in addition to some downloadable content, simply won't play without a memory card on board. Sure, this tidbit of news could prove frustrating to those not indoctrinated to the company's obstinate ways. But, we're willing to bet this device's dazzling innards are enough to help you overlook these minor niggles come next February.

Sony limits PS Vita game save options, memory card definitely not optional originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 26 Oct 2011 18:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>external memoryExternalMemorygame savesgames gameGameSavesGamesGamememorymemory cardmemory cardsMemoryCardMemoryCardsminipostPS VitaPsVitaSonySony PS VitaSonyPsVitavideo gamevideo gamesVideoGameVideoGamesVitaWed, 26 Oct 2011 18:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Nokia Asha brings Angry Birds to the developing world, Mighty Eagle soars (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/26/nokia-asha-brings-angry-birds-to-the-developing-world-mighty-ea/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/26/nokia-asha-brings-angry-birds-to-the-developing-world-mighty-ea/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/26/nokia-asha-brings-angry-birds-to-the-developing-world-mighty-ea/#comments Well we're pretty Angry ourselves, being that Nokia nearly foiled our liveblog plans and made it all but impossible to transmit photos and video thanks to an absolutely miserable attempt at providing internet access. But Nokia World is not without mobile gaming opportunities, and a few minutes with the Birds seemed to do the trick (shifting our moods, at the very least -- there's still no reliable internet).

We met up with Mr. Angry Birds himself, Peter Vesterbacka, who took us through a demo of the game on one of Nokia's new Asha Series 40 devices. The game, which has already seen an absolutely massive 400 million downloads, will come preloaded on the Asha 303, giving Vesterbacka and Rovio a chance to bring the game to emerging markets in China, India and Africa, where touchscreen devices are currently priced out of reach. The game seemed to perform just as well as it does on other platforms, so expect the same Angry Birds experience here as well. Jump past the break for a hands-on with Rovio's Mighty Eagle.

Continue reading Nokia Asha brings Angry Birds to the developing world, Mighty Eagle soars (video)

Nokia Asha brings Angry Birds to the developing world, Mighty Eagle soars (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 26 Oct 2011 10:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>303angry birdsAngryBirdsappappsashafeaturephonegamegameshands-onmighty eagleMightyEaglemobilepostcrossnokianokia 200nokia 201nokia 300nokia 303nokia ashanokia world 2011Nokia200Nokia201Nokia300Nokia303NokiaAshaNokiaWorld2011Peter VesterbackaPeterVesterbackaqwertys40series 40Series40videoWed, 26 Oct 2011 10:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Mario Kart 7 Steering Wheel for Nintendo 3DS should help you drift past Toadie]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/25/mario-kart-7-steering-wheel-for-nintendo-3ds-should-help-you-dri/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/25/mario-kart-7-steering-wheel-for-nintendo-3ds-should-help-you-dri/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/25/mario-kart-7-steering-wheel-for-nintendo-3ds-should-help-you-dri/#comments
It's no secret that Mario Kart 7 is due out in December, but it now appears that a certain 3DS-compatible steering wheel from Hori will be too. (Stoked?) According to Andriasang, Amazon's Japanese site listed the peripheral sans photos, pricing it at a cool ¥1,280 (about $17). Not long after that the blog snagged a few press shots of said unit, which looks like a odd blend of the iPhone-oriented Helix grip and Nintendo's own Wii Wheel. The attachment is said to feature tweaked shoulder triggers and Nintendo's Official Seal of Approval, but won't score you extra SlidePad functionality. You'll find a shot of the back past the break and more details at the links below.

Continue reading Mario Kart 7 Steering Wheel for Nintendo 3DS should help you drift past Toadie

Mario Kart 7 Steering Wheel for Nintendo 3DS should help you drift past Toadie originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 25 Oct 2011 22:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3DSHorihori 3ds wheelhori mario kart wheelHori3dsWheelHoriMarioKartWheelMario kart 7mario kart wheelMarioKart7MarioKartWheelnintendoNintendo 3DSnintendo 3ds steering wheelNintendo3dsNintendo3dsSteeringWheelportable gamingPortableGamingsteering wheelSteeringWheelwheelTue, 25 Oct 2011 22:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Hulu Plus coming to 3DS and Wii, handheld getting 3D video capture]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/21/hulu-plus-coming-to-3ds-and-wii-handheld-getting-3d-video-captu/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/21/hulu-plus-coming-to-3ds-and-wii-handheld-getting-3d-video-captu/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/21/hulu-plus-coming-to-3ds-and-wii-handheld-getting-3d-video-captu/#comments Hulu Plus on Nintendo 3DS Rejoice Nintendo fans, Hulu Plus is coming to your console of choice... provided you're up on the latest in Nintendo hardware. Both the Wii and 3DS will be getting access to the streaming service's vast archives of TV shows and movies some time before the year is out. Though, you shouldn't expect to see the Galactica popping out of your portable -- this is a strictly 2D affair. A software update coming at the end of November will also deliver the ability to record 3D video with the Nintendo handheld (up to ten minutes) or even stitch together stereoscopic images for stop motion animation that jumps out of the tiny screen at you. With both Hulu and Netflix in tow, as well as the ability to create your own content, the 3DS is actually turning into quite a powerful little portable. For more details, including some game release dates, check out the PR after the break.

Continue reading Hulu Plus coming to 3DS and Wii, handheld getting 3D video capture

Hulu Plus coming to 3DS and Wii, handheld getting 3D video capture originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 21 Oct 2011 09:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3d video3ds3dVideohdpostcrosshuluhulu plusHuluPlusnintendonintendo 3dsnintendo wiiNintendo3dsNintendoWiisoftware updateSoftwareUpdatestop motionStopMotionstreaming videoStreamingVideoupdateupgradewiiFri, 21 Oct 2011 09:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Knowles Electronics Mems Joystick for Samsung Galaxy Tab, Nintendo 3DS hands-on (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/07/knowles-electronics-mems-joystick-for-samsung-galaxy-tab-ninten/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/07/knowles-electronics-mems-joystick-for-samsung-galaxy-tab-ninten/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/07/knowles-electronics-mems-joystick-for-samsung-galaxy-tab-ninten/#comments With gaming on tablets, the visual experience is often top-notch, but the controls are unfamiliar at best -- even inadequate at times. But adding a traditional joystick is impractical, especially when aesthetics is a key selling point for manufacturers. Chicago-based Knowles Electronics has a fairly practical solution, however, and hopes that some manufacturers will adopt its Mems Joystick. At just 1.6mm tall, the joystick is slim enough for a device to maintain a svelte profile, and the 40 microamps it consumes during normal operation is relatively negligible, according to company reps. Tablets are just the start -- Knowles built a series of prototypes to demonstrate a variety of potential applications.

We took the joystick for a spin on a Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1, Motorola Atrix, Nintendo 3DS and a pair of laptops. All of the joystick prototypes connected using Bluetooth or USB, and were designed specifically for this CEATEC demonstration -- sadly they won't be available for purchase, though manufacturers could implement the controller into similar products. It took only a few seconds to get accustomed to the pair of joysticks mounted to the back of the Tab. Controlling gameplay felt natural, and we definitely preferred playing with a clear view of the display. We also navigated through Google Maps, and scrolled a web page -- both experiences felt superior to moving around the touchscreen. The 3DS joystick functioned similarly to the native controller included with that device, though Knowles reps noted that it's significantly smaller, and uses less power -- and without compromise, it seems.

Jump past the break for a walkthrough of the devices we saw today, but try not to fall in love -- you won't be able to use the Joystick anytime soon, if manufacturers decide to implement them at all.

Gallery: Mems Joystick KJ-33000 for Samsung Galaxy Tab, Nintendo 3DS hands-on

Continue reading Knowles Electronics Mems Joystick for Samsung Galaxy Tab, Nintendo 3DS hands-on (video)

Knowles Electronics Mems Joystick for Samsung Galaxy Tab, Nintendo 3DS hands-on (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 07 Oct 2011 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessoryceatecceatec 2011ceatec japanCeatec2011CeatecJapanchibacomponentscontrolcontrolsgamegaminghands-oninput deviceinput devicesInputDeviceInputDevicesjapanjoystickknowlesKnowles ElectronicsKnowlesElectronicsmemsMems JoystickMemsJoystickmobilepostcrossoemprototypetablettokyotokyo japanTokyoJapanvideoFri, 07 Oct 2011 12:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft Research celebrates 20 years of crazy innovation]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/28/microsoft-research-celebrates-20-years-of-crazy-innovation/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/28/microsoft-research-celebrates-20-years-of-crazy-innovation/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/28/microsoft-research-celebrates-20-years-of-crazy-innovation/#comments Microsoft Research was founded way back in 1991 as a way of turning cutting edge concepts into products. Over the years, the division has been behind some of the most exciting ideas that have come out of Redmond, from fluffy mice to HIV / AIDS research. The department is celebrating its 20th anniversary by highlighting some of its favorite projects over the next four weeks, so we're beating it to the punch with some of picks. Check out our list below.

Continue reading Microsoft Research celebrates 20 years of crazy innovation

Microsoft Research celebrates 20 years of crazy innovation originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 28 Sep 2011 01:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20 years20th anniversary20thAnniversary20Yearsanniversarye booke bookse readere readerse-booke-bookse-readere-readersmicrosoftmicrosoft researchMicrosoftResearchredmondresearchsurfaceWed, 28 Sep 2011 01:14:00 EST<![CDATA[In case you didn't know, PS Vita will play nice with PSP in ad-hoc mode]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/21/in-case-you-didnt-know-ps-vita-will-play-nice-with-psp-in-ad-h/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/21/in-case-you-didnt-know-ps-vita-will-play-nice-with-psp-in-ad-h/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/21/in-case-you-didnt-know-ps-vita-will-play-nice-with-psp-in-ad-h/#comments
Check out this tasty morsel of PS Vita info making the rounds: you'll be able to face your PSP-totin' friends via ad-hoc mode with games you've snagged from the PS Store (so long as the title supports it). We must've been so enamored by those vibrant PS Vitas at TGS that we missed this sweet bite courtesy of Sony PlayStation Japan. Sure, it doesn't kill the sting of its three to five hour battery life, but hey, we'll just consider it another justification for picking up the hot little number once it hits shelves.

In case you didn't know, PS Vita will play nice with PSP in ad-hoc mode originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 21 Sep 2011 19:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ad-hocad-hoc gamesad-hoc gamingAd-hocGamesAd-hocGaminggaminghandheldjapanminipostplaystationplaystation portableplaystation vitaPlaystationPortablePlaystationVitaportable gamingPortableGamingPS VitapspPsVitasonyvideo gamesVideoGamesvitaWed, 21 Sep 2011 19:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Keiji Inafune: handheld consoles don't need to fear the smartphone... yet]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/19/keiji-inafune-handheld-consoles-dont-need-to-fear-the-smartpho/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/19/keiji-inafune-handheld-consoles-dont-need-to-fear-the-smartpho/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/19/keiji-inafune-handheld-consoles-dont-need-to-fear-the-smartpho/#comments Yeah, we know that the whole mobile-gaming-is threatening-dedicated-gaming thing has been done to death, but when some of the industry's software MVPs start weighing in on the matter, well... that's when our ears perk up. Nintendo has made clear that it's shunning smartphones as a gaming platform, and now it's Mega Man co-creator Keiji Inafune's turn to windmill into the argument. Speaking with our sister site Joystiq, he opines that the two worlds aren't set to eclipse each other just yet, illustrating it wonderfully through the medium of simile: "I think it's very similar between cellphone cameras and professional digital cameras. You don't use a smartphone camera for an interview, and you don't use a really professional camera to take some small pictures when you're going to work." Hard to knock the underlying logic, but it's pretty tough to pretend that handset gaming isn't seriously denting handheld gaming. For the full spiel, be sure to give that source link a tap.

Keiji Inafune: handheld consoles don't need to fear the smartphone... yet originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 19 Sep 2011 08:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Keiji InafuneKeijiInafunemobile gamesmobile gamingMobileGamesMobileGamingnintendo 3dsNintendo3dsplaystation vitaPlaystationVitapspsmartphone gamessmartphone gamingSmartphoneGamesSmartphoneGamingMon, 19 Sep 2011 08:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony PlayStation Vita battery life: as little as three hours on a charge]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/16/sony-playstation-vita-battery-life-as-little-as-three-hours-on/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/16/sony-playstation-vita-battery-life-as-little-as-three-hours-on/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/16/sony-playstation-vita-battery-life-as-little-as-three-hours-on/#comments We've had plenty of QT with the Vita on the floor at TGS, but battery life is hard to judge when you can't take the device away with you. Back at our earlier hands-on in June we were told that longevity should be on a par with first-gen PSPs, which were all rated at 4-6 hours and -- with the PSP-1000 -- achieved around 3.5-5.5 hours in real-world tests. Now though, Sony says the Vita has just enough juice for 3-5 hours' gaming. We need to play this thing to death before we can be sure, but this does sound like a potential 15-25% drop in minimum play time. Do we care at this point? Not particularly. We're too busy salivating over this.

Sony PlayStation Vita battery life: as little as three hours on a charge originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 16 Sep 2011 10:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batterybattery lifeBatteryLifeNGPPlayStationPlayStation VitaPlaystationVitaPSP2shockerSonySony PlayStation VitaSonyPlaystationVitaTGSTGS 2011Tgs2011VitaFri, 16 Sep 2011 10:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo launching 'Misty Pink' 3DS handheld on October 20th]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/12/nintendo-launching-pink-3ds-handheld-on-october-20th/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/12/nintendo-launching-pink-3ds-handheld-on-october-20th/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/12/nintendo-launching-pink-3ds-handheld-on-october-20th/#comments You heard right -- The Big N's own Satoru Iwata just announced that a "Misty Pink" Nintendo 3DS console would be shipping (at least in Japan) on October 20th. Funnily enough, that was just after showing a chart proving that right around half of all DS gamers are ladies. (But Iwata -- what if the dudes dig pink, too?) At any rate, no specific price was mentioned, giving us some level of certainty that no premium will be attached.

Gallery: Nintendo announces pink 3DS gaming handheld in Tokyo


Gallery: Nintendo 3DS Conference 2011

Nintendo launching 'Misty Pink' 3DS handheld on October 20th originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 12 Sep 2011 23:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsbreaking newseventfemalegaminggaming handheldGamingHandheldgirlhandheldiwatajapanladynintendonintendo 3dsNintendo3dspinkSatoru IwataSatoruIwatatgstgs 2011Tgs2011tokyotokyo game showTokyoGameShowMon, 12 Sep 2011 23:19:00 EST