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Live from the HTC press conference at MWC 2012!
Are you endeavoring to see the latest and greatest out of Taiwan? So are we, and we have a couple seats to watch Peter Chou excite us with some fancy new stuff on stage. That doesn't mean, however, that you won't be able to come along for the ride. Our liveblog of HTC's Mobile World Congress press conference is about to begin, so keep your eyes locked here! February 26, 2012 2:30 PM EST
Mobile World Congress 2012 preview: what will we see?
Without hesitation, February always seems to be the most hectic time of the year for the mobile industry, thanks primarily to the annual Mobile World Congress held in Barcelona, Spain. The show has long been considered the proper venue for phone and tablet vendors to show off their latest and greatest innovations. Naturally, the internet is been set ablaze with plenty of rumors and even a few official product announcements from companies hoping to benefit from some solid pre-show buzz.In this guide we'll take you on a tour and walk through the hardware we already know will be shown off at MWC, as well as what we should likely expect to see and the things we'd really love to hear more about but probably won't. Join us after the break, won't you?
More HTC Endeavor whispers: SLCD display, thin chassis, 32GB and no microSD
Months of rumors about the HTC Endeavor (aka the One X, Edge, Ville) have layered up to provide a pretty complete (if not totally reliable) picture of the forthcoming Tegra 3-powered Android handset. There's room for a few more brush-strokes, however, and one of MoDaCo's tipsters is happy to paint them. We're told the new handset will have a Super LCD display, despite earlier rumors of HTC flirting with AMOLED (again). This could be no bad thing, judging from the stunning 1280 x 720 panel on the Rezound, but the Endeavor is expected to have a larger 4.7-inch screen and hence a slightly lower pixel density. The thinness of the Endeavor's chassis will reportedly be a major selling point, as will be the 32GB of onboard memory that will come as standard. However, this storage won't be expandable -- the tipster says there's no microSD on the back, just a microSIM slot and an 1800mAh battery that may or may not be removable. Again, the provenance of these reports is unknown, but MoDaCo's reports have so far tallied closely with what we saw in a leaked Endeavor ROM. Assuming it's all accurate, will it be enough to give HTC the differentiating leg-up it so badly needs? We're not sure, but we do know that more Beats Audio or a music streaming service won't cut it.
HTC Endeavor specs revealed in leaked ROM: Tegra 3, 720p, Sense 4.0 (update: screenshots)
HTC fans spent the last couple of days (i.e., their weekend) unpicking a leaked ROM Update Utility for an officially non-existent handset called the 'Endeavor.' The specs revealed so far include a 1280 x 720 display spread over 4.7-inches, a quad-core Tegra 3 processor, eight-megapixel rear shooter, front-facing camera, NFC, 1GB RAM and the new ICS-adapted version of HTC's Sense UI. These leaked specs tally with an earlier tip-off to MoDaCo, which further hinted at a 1.5GHz clock speed and Beats Audio. There's also a bunch of screenshots showing off the Sense 4.0 skin that we already glimpsed in a fuzzy HTC Ville video -- and it conspires to look both new and deeply familiar.Update: Screenshot gallery just added below, via Android Central.
Epson shoves a Core i7 processor in a chunky nettop, will build it to your specification
Tiny desktops? Good. Wimpy processors? Bad. Epson's Endeavor ST150E? Possibly the best of both worlds. Sure, it's bigger than your average nettop, about twice as tall, but for that extra girth you get a selection of Intel processors ranging from a Celeron P4600 all the way up to a Core i7-640M. It also sports a DVD-R/W drive, up to 8GB of RAM, 640GB on platters or a 64GB SSD, mountability behind an LCD, and power consumption as low as 16 watts -- though we're guessing that's with the Celeron. Indeed you can get this built however you want, with a starting price at 64,890 yen, or just under $800. But, get liberal with the options and you could be looking at a rather less frugal 190,000 yen. That's about $2,300, and an awful, awful lot for a little machine.
Motorola Endeavor HX1 on sale in Sprint stores for $129.99
This one slipped right under our radar, but some Sprint stores have already started taking delivery of the awesome Motorola Endeavor HX1 headset -- so at least one part of the rumor calling it out as a $159.99 Sprint exclusive was true. Fortunately, the pricing part of the rumor was false, because the sticker price you'll find on the shelf is a slightly more palatable $129.99. That's still pricey, yes, but at least it falls in line with the upper echelon of Bluetooth headsets on sale these days. We called around and found that some locations don't have it, some don't expect it until next week, and some already have a few socked away under the counter, so call around before you head out to pick it up.
Epson's Endeavor Na02mini-V netbook won't excite many
Epson's Endeavor Na01 shipped with an astoundingly predictable set of specifications last November, and lo and behold, the unit's successor has a BOM that's equally guessable. If you're not in the mood for playing games (and be honest, you aren't), we'll inform that this bugger touts a 10.1-inch display, 1,024 x 600 resolution, 1.66GHz Atom N280 processor, 1GB of memory, a 160GB hard drive, WiFi, a trio of USB 2.0 sockets and a multi-card reader. It's also sporting one of the classier cases out there, and the built-in VGA / Ethernet ports are also handy. The included Li-ion isn't anything special, but we're told an extended cell that offers up ten hours of life should be coming soon; for those who can hardly wait, it should be ready to purchase this November for ¥39,800, or just north of $427 at current exchange rates.[Via Engadget Korea]
Motorola Endeavor HX1 shows up in retail packaging, rumored for $159.99 in Sprint stores
We know the HX1 is good -- possibly the best -- but is it $160 worth of good? That's a question that we'd frankly rather not have to answer -- we'd be more comfortable with a "is it $120 worth of good" type of situation -- but a poster on HTCPedia has showed up bearing pictures of a retail HX1 in the wild (obviously intended for Asian distribution) along with a hot rumor that it'll be a Sprint exclusive launching within the next month for a whopping $159.99. We're guessing the technology Moto licensed from Invisio wasn't cheap (Invisio's forerunner, Nextlink, was renowned for making excellent but exorbitantly expensive headsets in Bluetooth's early days), but no matter how good the HX1 is, it's tough for the average phone owner to justify spending more on their handsfree than they do on the phone itself. For now, we're hoping this rumor doesn't pan out, but just in case, you might want to start socking away twenties instead of buying 2,000 Nintendo DSi points every other day. Seriously, what are you using them on, anyway?
Motorola Endeavor HX1 ears-on
We've been playing with Motorola's recently-announced Endeavor HX1 for the past few hours, and we're just going to come right out with it: this is the best Bluetooth headset we've ever used. Moto claims that the HX1 is the world's first consumer headset to use "true bone conduction technology," a veiled (but obvious) reference to the external cheek-resting sensor found on Jawbone's devices -- and indeed, the Jawbone Prime is the most obvious direct competitor to the HX1. Both devices offer decent styling, feature optional earloops and a selection of earbuds for a tighter fit, are being positioned as premium headsets, and -- most importantly -- pack a ton of innovative circuitry all in the name of cutting noise in harsh surroundings. Follow the break for our quick impressions!
Motorola's Endeavor HX1 Bluetooth headset packs 'true' bone conduction technology, modicum of style
Motorola isn't shying away from a fight here with its Endeavor HX1 Bluetooth headset -- and if there's anything the Bluetooth headset industry needs, it's some manner of controversy. The company is calling its new HX1 the "only Bluetooth headset to use true bone conduction technology," with a user activated "Stealth Mode" that switches the set from regular mic to an in-ear sensor which picks vibrations right off the bone for talking in particularly noisy environments. Jawbone, on the other hand, picks up vibrations from the outside of the face, but primarily as an "Activity Sensor," though the latest version nabs some audio from those vibrations -- both manufacturers naturally claim a military heritage to their technology. It'll take some actual testing to see who wins out, but it sounds like some good tech from Moto all the same. We do know one thing, however: no amount of in-ear stylings can ever ease your transition into general society. No word on price of a US release date for the HX1, it hits Asia in July.
Epson trots out tiny ST120 HTPC, finds room for Blu-ray / TV tuner
Man, talk about a much needed refreshing. Last we recall, Epson was eliciting "awws" from window shoppers who just couldn't get over how delightfully cute its Endeavor ST100 micro PC was. Fast forward two years, and here we have the equally tiny (albeit entirely more useful) ST120. The all-black box comes equipped with a 2.26GHz Core 2 Duo P8400 CPU, 1GB of RAM, 80GB of hard drive space, an HDMI output, a Blu-ray writer and a digital TV tuner. Too bad the loaded configuration we just spouted off rings up at ¥137,500 ($1,531), but those with less lavish lifestyles can opt for a DVD model that starts at "just" ¥65,100 ($725).[Via Engadget Spanish]
Epson's Endeavor Na01 mini is a netbook
Not much to say here, just an Atom N270 1.6Ghz processor, 10.2-inch 1024 x 600 LCD, 1GB of RAM, 160GB HDD and a dash of Windows XP, doing what they always do. There's a nice complement of completely standard interfaces, like three USB 2.0 plugs, 802.11b/g WiFi, Ethernet, mini VGA out and a multicard reader, all stuffed into a slightly frumpy 1.5-inch thick enclosure, but let's not get off message: Epson's new Endeavor Na01 mini is all Microsoft-proscribed netbook and nothing more. The Japan-only computer is available today for the completely palatable price of 46,800 Yen (about $484). [Via Impress Watch]
Epson, Sanrio team up for two more Hello Kitty laptop designs
Don't bother asking if the madness will ever end; you know good and well it won't. Now that we're clear, let's focus on the latest Hello Kitty-blasted laptop: the May-bound Endeavor NJ2100. Available in either a floral-inspired or airplane-dominated theme, the predominantly Pearl White machine touts rather exceptionally modest specs (shocked?) including a 15.4-inch WXGA display, 1.86GHz Intel Celeron processor, 1GB of DDR2 RAM, an 80GB hard drive, 3-in-1 multicard reader, gigabit Ethernet / WiFi and Windows Vista Home. You'll also find a FireWire socket, four USB 2.0 ports, a PC Card slot and around one measly hour of battery life from the standard cell. Totally not worth the ¥147,000 ($1,409) asking price, but then again, cuteness demands a serious, serious premium these days.[Via Slippery Brick, thanks David]
Epson pops Penryn in 13.3-inch NA801 laptop
For those wondering when you'd see an all new Endeavor from Epson (yes, all six of you), the time has finally come. Astonishingly enough, the outfit's latest 13.3-incher actually isn't half bad, and comes equipped with such niceties as a WXGA panel, your choice of Windows XP / Vista, Intel's 2.1GHz Core 2 Duo T8100, NVIDIA's 256MB GeForce 8600M GT, up to 3GB of DDR2 RAM, between 80GB and 250GB of HDD space, a dual-layer DVD burner and integrated Bluetooth. You'll also find gigabit Ethernet, WiFi, a trio of USB 2.0 ports, HDMI, VGA, an ExpressCard slot, a multicard reader and a battery good for around 3.4-hours on a full charge. Reportedly, the 4.4-pound NA801 is set to ship later this month and start at ¥149,940 ($1,503), but you can drive that figure right on up if you're the CTO type.[Via Impress]
Epson intros Endeavor NJ5100Pro laptop
Epson's Endeavor laptops may not turn many heads (save for the odd Hello Kitty invasion), but the company's latest at least packs some decent specs, as well as a range of configuration options. On the top end, the 15.4-inch NJ5100Pro packs a 2.6GHz Core 2 Duo T7800 processor, along with ATI Mobility Radeon HD 2600 or Mobility FireGL V5600 graphics, some Intel Turbo Memory to speed things up, a max 2GB of RAM, and a 250GB hard drive. You can also get your choice of WUXGA (1,920 x 1,200) or WXGA+ (1,440 x 900) displays, and your choice of Windows XP or Vista, among other options. Look for it to be available in Japan immediately, with prices starting at ¥149,940 and going up to ¥228,690 (or roughly $1,300 to $2,000).[Via Impress]
NASA worker caught in act of sabotage on ISS bound computer
According to breaking news from NASA, a space program worker is alleged to have deliberately damaged a computer that was meant to fly aboard the Endeavour in less than two weeks, in an apparent act of sabotage. NASA says the unnamed individual, who works for one of the space agency's subcontractors, cut wires inside a computer that was headed to the International Space Station (ISS) on the shuttle. The alleged tampering occurred outside of NASA operations in Florida, but the agency isn't naming the subcontractor or where exactly the incident took place. The agency hopes to fix the damage and launch the Endeavour August 7th, as planned. As this appears to be the first ever report of sabotage on the space program, you can expect to hear a lot more on this story in the very near future.[Via TheWolfWeb]
Epson intros 15.4-inch Endeavor NJ2050 laptop
While we've no doubt that you can easily track down a more provocative laptop than the business-minded Endeavor, Epson is apparently updating the NJ2000 to elicit a few more corporate purchases. The Endeavor NJ2050 still sports a 15.4-inch screen in both WXGA and WXGA+ varieties, but gives users the choice of a (nearly archaic) Intel Celeron M or the much preferred Core 2 Duo on the processor front. Additionally, the graphics set found itself updated with ATI's Radeon Xpress 1100, and interested customers have the BTO flexibility to add up to 2GB of DDR2 RAM, a hard drive from 40GB to 160GB in size, and any of Microsoft's latest operating systems (yes, that includes XP). You'll also notice a PCMCIA slot, SD / MMC / MSPro memory card reader, gigabit Ethernet, stereo speakers, FireWire, and a dual-layer DVD burner. Prices will start around ¥69,930 ($589) for the basic configuration, but more thoroughly equipped machines will run you a few hundred more.[Via Impress]
Major League Gaming signs distribution deal with Flame Ventures
Major League Gaming has stepped up its efforts to gain mainstream media coverage, inking a deal with media development and production company Flame Ventures. The partnership is expected to expand the reach of MLG programming, bringing more competitive gaming events to television and mobile video. Could MLG be the next World Series of Poker? Place your bets.See also: Major League Gaming on your TV? Major League Gaming trumps other gaming shows
Epson's NA102 and NA702 laptops: more Vista, less battery
Epson is doing the CPU bump this morning with their 12.1-inch and 14.1-inch Endeavor laptops now packing Vista pre-loads. The NA101 is re-christened the NA102 in celebration of its new 1.2GHz U2500 Core Duo processor option. Otherwise, it brings a Vista Home Basic pre-load and same 1024 x 764 pixel display, Intel 945GMS Express graphics, and up to 1.5GB of DDR2 memory and 100GB of disk. The slab weighs between 2.4 and 3.3-pounds depending upon the options you select such as their chunky 13,000mAh battery. Oh, and get this: if you load Vista, Epson claims a 17% to 20% reduction in battery life, dropping off from 12.6-hours under XP to 10.5-hours under Vista when using that long haul battery, or from 5.6-hours to 4.5-hours off the standard 5200mAh battery. The 14.1-inch NA701 become the new NA702 now with a T7600 Core 2 Duo processor option. It packs that same 1400 x 1050 resolution, up to 1.5GB of DDR2 memory and new 160GB of disk, and any version of Windows Vista you desire since the NA702's brings beefier nVIDIA GeForce Go 7300 graphics with 128MB of dedicated video memory. Both build-to-order models are available starting today in Japan. Picture of the NA702 after the break.[Via Impress]Read -- Epson Endeavor NA102 Read -- Epson Endeavor NA702
Epson goes miniature with Endeavor ST100 micro PC
We know Epson's engineering team prides itself on cranking out the tiniest, most miniscule products they possibly can, and the company has veered from the printing / scanning world for a bit to unveil its Endeavor ST100 "micro PC." While the Endeavor NA101 did its wee thing on the laptop side, the ST100 packs an Intel Core 2 Duo (T7200, T7400, or T7600) processor, ATi's Radeon Xpress 200M graphics chipset, up to 2GB of DDR2 RAM, 40GB to 160GB SATA drive options, and a dual-layer DVD burner. It also sports a ho hum port assortment including VGA, audio in / out, Ethernet, 56k modem, and six USB 2.0 ports with a pair of them being on the front panel. While it doesn't quite undercut the Mac Mini's 6.5- x 6.5- x 2-inch enclosure and 2.9-pound weight, this PC weighs in at just over five pounds while boasting a 7.28- x 7.68- x 2.95-inch package. Those looking for an ultraportable desktop on a budget shouldn't find much to complain about here, as the ST100 starts at just ¥59,850 ($508), but we're sure adding a speedier CPU and gobs of RAM will ratchet that right up.[Via Akihabara News]
