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[Apple secures patent on multiple-arm, multiple-frequency antenna design]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/27/apple-patent-multiple-arm-multiple-frequency-antenna-design/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/27/apple-patent-multiple-arm-multiple-frequency-antenna-design/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/27/apple-patent-multiple-arm-multiple-frequency-antenna-design/#commentsImageIf not for Leap Day, Apple would've seen this one granted a year to the day after it was filed; as it stands, 365 days will just have to do. At any rate, Apple has not only managed to secure a patent this fine morning for an ejectable SIM tray, but also one for an antenna isolation apparatus. In simple(ish) terms, the patent details an antenna structure in a portable electronic device that's comprised of "first, second, and third resonating elements aligned along a common axis parallel to a ground plane," with a multiple-arm, multiple-frequency design taking shape. It's also pretty clear that the intention here is to reduce radio-frequency interference between the antennas -- something that'll prove increasingly important as wave support is added in future iPhones. Unfortunately, there's no word on whether this patent will allow AT&T-infused iPhone 5 handsets to display "7G" in the indicator bar.

Apple secures patent on multiple-arm, multiple-frequency antenna design originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 27 Mar 2012 10:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antennaantennagateapplecallingcommunicationdual antennaDualAntennamobilepostcrosspatentreceptionTue, 27 Mar 2012 10:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Verizon launches 'faster than wired' broadband for the home]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/06/verizon-homefusion-broadband/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/06/verizon-homefusion-broadband/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/06/verizon-homefusion-broadband/#comments Verizon Wireless is making good on that name, aiming to rid your home of those ugly, ugly wires. The carrier wants to substitute them with the not-exactly-subtle, bucket-sized antenna you can see on the left. Its HomeFusion service aims to replace DSL-connected domiciles, with Verizon reckoning its own wireless broadband can offer up better upload and download speeds. According to the Washington Post, the hardware will set potential customers back around $200, but installation costs will be included in the service. The entry-level $60 per month package will net you just 10GB of data, with HomeFusion currently readied for launch in Dallas and Birmingham later this month. Users will be able to connect up to 50 different devices and Verizon intends to roll out the wireless internet package as far as its LTE network tendrils can reach. Plans go up to the dizzying heights of 30GB for $120 per month, with additional gigabytes charged at $10 a pop. For anyone in broadband-unfriendly homes looking for a step up in internet speed, you may want to start looking for somewhere to hide hang that antenna...

Continue reading Verizon launches 'faster than wired' broadband for the home

Verizon launches 'faster than wired' broadband for the home originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 06 Mar 2012 06:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4Gantennabroadbandfusionhomehome fusionHomeFusionhomefusion broadbandHomefusionBroadbandinternetLTEverizonverizon wirelessVerizonWirelesswirelessWireless internetWirelessInternetTue, 06 Mar 2012 06:57:00 EST<![CDATA[TV stations predictably sue Aereo over antenna-to-internet streaming plans]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/01/aereo-antenna-tv-lawsuit/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/01/aereo-antenna-tv-lawsuit/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/01/aereo-antenna-tv-lawsuit/#comments We had to wonder if Aereo / fka Bamboom would actually be able to launch its $12 / month antenna-based live TV over the internet service before the networks tried to sue it out of existence and the answer is in: no. Ahead of Aereo's planned March 14th launch, AllThingsD reports several New York Area broadcasters including Fox and PBS have filed suit in US District Court to stop it from getting off the ground. Put simply, they don't believe copyright law allows Aereo to retransmit their OTA broadcasts on the internet without obtaining a license from them to do so, whether it uses one large antenna or an array of tiny antennas (pictured above) -- one for each subscriber -- as it says it will. Clearly Aereo disagrees, however we don't recall that argument working out so well for Zediva. Hit the source link to read the entire complaint in PDF form for yourself or just peep a press release from the National Association of Broadcasters after the break, we'll let you know if Aereo has any response.

Update: Check out Aereo's response, also included after the break. Just as predictably, it "does not believe that the broadcasters' position has any merit and it very much looks forward to a full and fair airing of the issues."

Continue reading TV stations predictably sue Aereo over antenna-to-internet streaming plans

TV stations predictably sue Aereo over antenna-to-internet streaming plans originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 01 Mar 2012 18:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aereoantennabamboombroadcastersfoxhdpostcrossipad streamingIpadStreaminglawsuitotapbsThu, 01 Mar 2012 18:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Google looks to plant a field of satellite dishes in Iowa]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/21/google-looks-to-plant-a-field-of-satellite-dishes-in-iowa/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/21/google-looks-to-plant-a-field-of-satellite-dishes-in-iowa/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/21/google-looks-to-plant-a-field-of-satellite-dishes-in-iowa/#commentsGoogle seeks to build antenna farm in IowaIowa. Fertile home to 14 million acres of corn, nine million acres of soybeans, and -- if the FCC looks favorably on a recent application from Farmer Google -- a blooming array of 15-foot satellite dishes too. The request for a "receive only earth station" comes from Google Fiber, and the bands it hopes to receive are typical satellite TV frequencies, hinting that the purpose of the station will be to receive audio and video content that will then be piped through a high-speed fiber data service. First stop, Kansas City!

Google looks to plant a field of satellite dishes in Iowa originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 21 Feb 2012 03:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antennaantenna farmAntennaFarmdishfccfiber networkFiberNetworkgooglegoogle fiberGoogleFiberiowasatellitesatellite dishsatellite tvSatelliteDishSatelliteTvTue, 21 Feb 2012 03:42:00 EST<![CDATA[iPhone 4 antennagate class-action lawsuit settled, owners to receive $15 or a free case (update)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/17/apple-iphone-4-antennagate-lawsuit-settlement/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/17/apple-iphone-4-antennagate-lawsuit-settlement/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/17/apple-iphone-4-antennagate-lawsuit-settlement/#comments According to CNET, a class-action lawsuit over the iPhone 4's troublesome antenna, aka Antennagate, has been settled. The planned resolution will net US residents who bought one and presumably either $15 in cash or (another?) free bumper case. CNET quotes co-lead counsel Ira Rothken (who, by the way, also represents Megaupload) saying that he believes the settlement is "fair and reasonable", affecting some 25 million people who will be notified by email and through print ads in USA Today and Macworld. Once they've received the heads up, they can go to www.iPhone4Settlement.com (not up and running yet) to register their claims. When the issue first came to light back in 2010 Apple suggested holding it differently before saying it would tweak its signal display formulas and, eventually, offering the free cases. Hopefully for the company and its users, this resolution puts the issue -- which is not a problem on the new 4S -- to bed.

Update: We spoke to an Apple representative who confirmed that the settlement is for those customers who chose not to take a free case or return their phone back in 2010. It looks like holding out didn't get you much more than the option to take $15 cash instead, but we'll simply consider it a much-needed opportunity to reflect on the International Year of Biodiversity that was.

iPhone 4 antennagate class-action lawsuit settled, owners to receive $15 or a free case (update) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 17 Feb 2012 22:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>15antennaantennagateappleclass actionClassActionfree caseFreeCaseiphoneiphone 4iphone 4 antennaiPhone 4 antenna design flawIphone4Iphone4AntennaIphone4AntennaDesignFlawira rothkenIraRothkenlawsuitmobilepostcrosssettlementFri, 17 Feb 2012 22:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Spray-on antenna revealed: best thing to come in a can since Easy Cheese (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/11/spray-on-antenna-revealed-best-thing-to-come-in-a-can-since-eas/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/11/spray-on-antenna-revealed-best-thing-to-come-in-a-can-since-eas/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/11/spray-on-antenna-revealed-best-thing-to-come-in-a-can-since-eas/#comments Ever found yourself without a signal and wished you could just spray one on like magic? Well, maybe soon, you'll be able to do just that. Chamtech Enterprises has developed a spray-on antenna it says is more lightweight and energy-efficient than current technology. Revealed at Google's inaugural Solve for X shindig, the antenna can be "painted" onto almost anything, including trees, walls and fabrics. Chamtech's already talking with government-based customers, and as such can't spill too much detail on how it works, but said it uses organic elements to tinker with magnetic and radio-frequency fields. The start-up's CTO, Rhett Spencer, claims the antenna could increase mobile energy efficiency by 10 percent. It was also found to work particularly well under water, and being organic, we presume, would make it ideal for sub-aquatic telecom infrastructure, and of course, rainy days.

Continue reading Spray-on antenna revealed: best thing to come in a can since Easy Cheese (video)

Spray-on antenna revealed: best thing to come in a can since Easy Cheese (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 11 Feb 2012 07:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antennachamtechorganic antennaOrganicAntennasciencesignalsignal boostSignalBoostSolve for XSolveForXsprayspray-onspray-on antennaSpray-onAntennaSat, 11 Feb 2012 07:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Let the turkey power your Christmas tree lights]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/12/let-the-turkey-power-your-christmas-tree-lights/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/12/let-the-turkey-power-your-christmas-tree-lights/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/12/let-the-turkey-power-your-christmas-tree-lights/#comments No one's attempted this in a commercial product before, but Nihon Dengyo Kosaku Co has reportedly developed a device that makes it achievable: a 'rectenna' that can fit inside a microwave oven and recycle unused wave energy. The palm-sized gadget combines both an antenna for catching waves and a rectifier for converting them into DC current, with a maximum output of 100 watts. Foods with a low water content have the worst heating efficiency, which means they offer the best opportunity for reclaiming energy -- so stodgy Christmas cuisine would be perfect.

Let the turkey power your Christmas tree lights originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 12 Dec 2011 08:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antennachristmascookingdefrostingDengyomicrowavemicrowave ovenMicrowaveOvenNihon Dengyo KosakuNihonDengyoKosakurectennarectifierrecyclerecyclingMon, 12 Dec 2011 08:12:00 EST<![CDATA[Consumer Reports finds iPhone 4S to have worthwhile antennas, says newer iPhone 4 is still problematic]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/08/consumer-reports-finds-iphone-4s-to-have-worthwhile-antennae-sa/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/08/consumer-reports-finds-iphone-4s-to-have-worthwhile-antennae-sa/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/08/consumer-reports-finds-iphone-4s-to-have-worthwhile-antennae-sa/#comments "Consumer Reports recommends the iPhone 4S." It's only half a dozen words, but to the engineers (and marketers) at Apple, it spells "relief." After being profusely impacted by Consumer Reports' decision to recommend against buying the iPhone 4 due to those Antennagate issues, the entity has allowed all in Cupertino to breath a sigh of relief by effectively declaring the reception issue dead on the newest edition. To quote:

"Apple's newest smart phone performed very well in our tests, and while it closely resembles the iPhone 4 in appearance, it doesn't suffer the reception problem we found in its predecessor in special tests in our labs. In special reception tests of the iPhone 4S that duplicated those we did on the iPhone 4, the newer phone did not display the same reception flaw, which involves a loss of signal strength when you touch a spot on the phone's lower left side while you're in an area with a weak signal. (The iPhone 4, which is still available, continues to exhibit that problem, we confirmed in tests of new samples of the phone. Because of the flaw, we continue to omit the iPhone 4 from our list of recommended models, despite its otherwise fine performance.)"

In other words, even the newer samples of the iPhone 4 (perhaps even that one for Sprint?) continue to have antenna quirks, but at least the latest and greatest seems to have addressed 'em. Hit the source link for the full report.

Consumer Reports finds iPhone 4S to have worthwhile antennas, says newer iPhone 4 is still problematic originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 08 Nov 2011 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antennaantennagateapplecallcallingconnectionconsumer reportsConsumerReportsdeath gripDeathGripfixiphoneiphone 4iphone 4sIphone4Iphone4smobilepostcrossproblemreceptionTue, 08 Nov 2011 09:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Researchers use inkjet acumen to create wireless explosive sensor from paper]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/31/researchers-use-inkjet-acumen-to-create-wireless-explosive-senso/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/31/researchers-use-inkjet-acumen-to-create-wireless-explosive-senso/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/31/researchers-use-inkjet-acumen-to-create-wireless-explosive-senso/#comments
Meet Krishna Naishadham and Xiaojuan (Judy) Song. They're researchers at the Georgia Institute of Technology, and those little devices they're holding may one day save you from an explosive device. This petite prototype is actually a paper-like wireless sensor that was printed using basic inkjet technology, developed by professor Manos Tentzeris. Its integrated lightweight antenna allows the sensor to link up with communication devices, while its functionalized carbon nanotubes enable it to pick up on even the slightest traces of ammonia -- an ingredient common to most IEDs. According to Tentzeris, the trick to such inkjet printing lies in the development of "inks" that can be deposited at relatively low temperatures. These inks, laced with silver nanoparticles, can then be uniformly distributed across paper-based components using a process called sonication. The result is a low-cost component that can adhere to just about any surface. The wireless sensor, meanwhile, requires comparatively low amounts of power, and could allow users to detect bombs from a safe distance. Naishadham says his team's device is geared toward military officials, humanitarian workers or any other bomb sniffers in hazardous situations, though there's no word yet on when it could enter the market. To find out more, careen past the break for the full PR.

Continue reading Researchers use inkjet acumen to create wireless explosive sensor from paper

Researchers use inkjet acumen to create wireless explosive sensor from paper originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 31 Oct 2011 08:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ammoniaantennabombbomb detectorBombDetectorcarbon nanotubesCarbonNanotubesCNTexplosiveexplosive deviceExplosiveDevicegeorgia institute of technologygeorgia techGeorgiaInstituteOfTechnologyGeorgiaTechIEDinkjetManos TentzerisManosTentzerismilitarypaperprintingprototyperesearchsensorsilver nanoparticleSilverNanoparticlesonicationwireless sensorWirelessSensorMon, 31 Oct 2011 08:26:00 EST<![CDATA[LightSquared partners with PCTEL on antenna 'fix' for GPS interference issue]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/28/lightsquared-partners-with-pctel-on-antenna-fix-for-gps-interf/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/28/lightsquared-partners-with-pctel-on-antenna-fix-for-gps-interf/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/28/lightsquared-partners-with-pctel-on-antenna-fix-for-gps-interf/#comments It's the problem that won't go away for LightSquared, and one that has prompted a number of different "fixes" and "solutions." The latest, as announced by the LTE wholesaler last month, is an actual hardware fix that overcomes the interference issue affecting high-precision GPS units -- the only problem being that all existing and future units will need to be upgraded with said fix. Now the company's back with yet more details, announcing that it's partnered with PCTEL to develop an antenna that lets users of high-precision GPS units easily retrofit their devices to make them "LightSquared-compatible." There's still no word on the cost for it, but LightSquared has also announced that Partron America has created a filtering component that costs $6. The company's press release is after the break.

Continue reading LightSquared partners with PCTEL on antenna 'fix' for GPS interference issue

LightSquared partners with PCTEL on antenna 'fix' for GPS interference issue originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 28 Oct 2011 17:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4g4g lte4gLteantennafixgpsgps interferenceGpsInterferencehigh precision gpshigh-precision gpsHigh-precisionGpsHighPrecisionGpslightsquaredltepartron americaPartronAmericapctelFri, 28 Oct 2011 17:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Help for the lost: a fabric antenna to keep you from being a castaway]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/04/help-for-the-lost-a-fabric-antenna-to-keep-you-from-being-a-cas/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/04/help-for-the-lost-a-fabric-antenna-to-keep-you-from-being-a-cas/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/04/help-for-the-lost-a-fabric-antenna-to-keep-you-from-being-a-cas/#comments

Doesn't look like much, does it? But the next time you're lost at sea, you just might be thankful you've got it. That little square of fabric is actually a flexible antenna designed for the Cospas-Sarsat distress signal network, a Cold War-era system built to help pinpoint missing ships, planes and people. Designed to be sewn into a life vest, the antenna broadcasts an emergency beacon at a low frequency for greater range; in field tests, that helped rescuers find it within minutes. It's also tear- and water-resistant, which you'll be grateful for when you're being tossed around like a ragdoll in a sea of whitecaps. The technology was developed by the European Space Agency in partnership with a Finnish company. Next on their agenda? A round, floating companion for the marooned, codenamed Wilson.

Help for the lost: a fabric antenna to keep you from being a castaway originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 04 Oct 2011 21:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventureantennabeaconcold warColdWarCospas-Sarsatdistressemergencyesaeuropean space agencyEuropeanSpaceAgencyfabricfabric antennaFabricAntennarescuesurvivalTue, 04 Oct 2011 21:53:00 EST<![CDATA[Sezmi's cable / satellite alternative TV service to shut down Monday, won't be missed]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/24/sezmis-cable-satellite-alternative-tv-service-to-shut-down-mo/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/24/sezmis-cable-satellite-alternative-tv-service-to-shut-down-mo/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/24/sezmis-cable-satellite-alternative-tv-service-to-shut-down-mo/#comments It's been almost two years since Sezmi launched its hybrid antenna and internet TV service, and now it has announced the dream of pay-TV without cable or satellite is dead. An email went out to customers tonight informing them the ability to view or record programming on their Sezmi systems would be shut off Monday, September 26th. The only compensation given for the sudden disconnect? Free access to the VOD catalog before that disappears too, on November 1st. The $20 / month Select Plus package that offered pay-TV channels over antenna never spread beyond Los Angeles, although users happy to settle for basic channels and online VOD had access in other markets. Still, we predict it won't be missed simply because it doesn't seem like many people ever signed up. Despite nice features like unique profiles for different household members, the limited sports selection cut off many early adopters from the beginning. The company is apparently trying to pivot into selling its technology to other service providers, we'll wait and see if a Moxi-like resurgence is in the cards. Check out the letter to subscribers and our original video demo after the break while we plan a month-long memorial service for those soon-to-be-useless 1TB DVRs.

[Thanks, John]

Continue reading Sezmi's cable / satellite alternative TV service to shut down Monday, won't be missed

Sezmi's cable / satellite alternative TV service to shut down Monday, won't be missed originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 24 Sep 2011 00:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1tbantennabest buyBestBuybreaking newsdvrhdpostminihybridiptvotasezmisezmi selectsezmi select plusSezmiSelectSezmiSelectPlusSat, 24 Sep 2011 00:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Buckeyes embed antennas in clothes, couture to improve radio reception?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/23/buckeyes-embed-antennas-in-clothes-couture-to-improve-radio-rec/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/23/buckeyes-embed-antennas-in-clothes-couture-to-improve-radio-rec/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/23/buckeyes-embed-antennas-in-clothes-couture-to-improve-radio-rec/#comments We like what's in our wardrobe to be multifunctional, and we've seen threads do double duty as keyboards, flashlights and even drum kits in our day. Now, researchers at Ohio State have come up with a way to turn the shirt on your back into an omnidirectional antenna to boost radio reception. To do so, they etched brass wires into plastic film to create flexible antennae, and stitched 4 of them into the shoulders, chest and back of a vest. Using a computer controller the size of a deck of cards clipped to the wearers belt, the system senses body movement and activates the appropriate antenna to get the best signal. You see, antennae don't work so well when touching human skin -- as any iPhone 4 owner can attest -- and the multiple antenna system alleviates that problem while providing "significantly greater signal strength" than a standard antenna. The researchers see the technology having great appeal for the military, law enforcement, and emergency personnel, but here's hoping they make a consumer version, too. It'd be nice to eliminate all those cell-service dead spots by simply donning a jacket, right?

Continue reading Buckeyes embed antennas in clothes, couture to improve radio reception?

Buckeyes embed antennas in clothes, couture to improve radio reception? originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 23 Aug 2011 12:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antennaantennaeclothesclothingohio stateohio state universityOhioStateOhioStateUniversityradioresearchsciencewearable antennaWearableAntennaTue, 23 Aug 2011 12:12:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple to release cheaper, 8GB iPhone 4 within weeks?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/23/apple-to-release-cheaper-8gb-iphone-4-within-weeks/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/23/apple-to-release-cheaper-8gb-iphone-4-within-weeks/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/23/apple-to-release-cheaper-8gb-iphone-4-within-weeks/#comments As the world waits for Apple to release the iPhone 5, Reuters is reporting that Cupertino may be refreshing the iPhone 4, as well. According to two anonymous sources "with knowledge of the matter," an unnamed Korean manufacturer has already begun producing parts for a cheaper, 8GB version of the smartphone, slated to launch within the next few weeks. As for that next-gen handset, the insiders went on to say that the iPhone 4S / iPhone 5 will feature a more spacious touchscreen, better antenna and eight megapixel shooter, and that Apple is indeed aiming for a late September launch, after having already asked manufacturers Hon Hai and Pegatron to prep their facilities for the production of 45 million units, altogether. Details, as usual, are still scarce at this point, but we'll let you know as soon as we get more information.

Apple to release cheaper, 8GB iPhone 4 within weeks? originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 23 Aug 2011 05:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>8 megapixel8gb8gb iphone 48gbIphone48Megapixelantennaapplecameraeight megapixelEightMegapixelflash forwardFlashForwardhon haiHonHaiiosiphoneiphone 4iphone 4siphone 5Iphone4Iphone4sIphone5launchmanufacturermanufacturingmobilepostcrosspegatronproductionrumorsmartphonetouchscreenTue, 23 Aug 2011 05:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Australia's first mobile network celebrates 30th birthday with a quiet night in]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/10/australias-first-mobile-network-celebrates-30th-birthday-with-a/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/10/australias-first-mobile-network-celebrates-30th-birthday-with-a/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/10/australias-first-mobile-network-celebrates-30th-birthday-with-a/#comments Why is this phone staring at the ground in dismay? Because it can't believe that it's been 30 years since it made history. On this day three decades ago, this 14 kilogram beast was used to place the very first call on Australia's very first mobile network -- the Public Automatic Telephone System, operated by Telstra (or Telecom, as it was known at the time). Back then, the network could only support 1,000 users at once and provide coverage for the greater Melbourne area (things have since changed for the better). The device, meanwhile, was known simply as The Mobile Phone and, in retrospect, wasn't all that mobile; the carphone system included a 45 centimeter handset, a transceiver and rooftop antenna -- all for a little over $5,000. It could also store a whopping 16 phone numbers and would notify users of incoming calls by sounding the car's horn and flashing its headlights. The Mobile Phone's Australian reign, however, would be relatively short-lived, with the DynaTAC 8000x ushering in a new handheld era, just two years after Telstra's inaugural call. Dial past the break for a Wagnerian commercial that'll tell you everything you always wanted to know about antiquity, but were too afraid to ask.

[Thanks, Vincent]

Continue reading Australia's first mobile network celebrates 30th birthday with a quiet night in

Australia's first mobile network celebrates 30th birthday with a quiet night in originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 10 Aug 2011 07:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1980s80sanniversaryantennaaustraliabirthdaycarcar phoneCarPhonehandheldhandsethistorymobilemobile networkMobileNetworkmoneynetworkoldphonepricepublic automatic telephone systemPublicAutomaticTelephoneSystemtelstrathe mobile phoneTheMobilePhonetransceiverWed, 10 Aug 2011 07:11:00 EST<![CDATA[Russia's RadioAstron telescope finally set to launch, blanket space with its radio eye]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/17/russias-radioastron-telescope-finally-set-to-launch-blanket-sp/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/17/russias-radioastron-telescope-finally-set-to-launch-blanket-sp/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/17/russias-radioastron-telescope-finally-set-to-launch-blanket-sp/#commentsConsidering all the space nostalgia we've been swimming in recently, it's somewhat appropriate that a Cold War-era telescope is gearing up to make its maiden voyage, after more than three decades of development (and delays). The Russian mission, known as RadioAstron, will finally become a reality on Monday, when a radio telescope launches from Kazakhstan's Baikonur cosmodrome before soaring into orbit some 350,000 kilometers away from the Earth. At just ten meters in width, the craft's antenna is small in comparison to other radio 'scopes, but its reach can be dramatically expanded when combined with signals from those on the ground. This technique, called interferometry, will effectively create the largest telescope ever built, covering an area nearly 30 times the Earth's diameter and allowing RadioAstron to capture interstellar images in 10,000 times the resolution of the Hubble Space Telescope. There remains, however, one major hurdle -- because the spacecraft collects data at about 144 megabits per second, it must constantly transfer information to antennas on the ground. Problem is, there's only one antenna capable of receiving RadioAstron's signals and, unless others are constructed soon, a healthy chunk of its observations could be lost. How do you say "buzz-kill" in Russian?

Russia's RadioAstron telescope finally set to launch, blanket space with its radio eye originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 17 Jul 2011 20:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antennaastronomyBaikonurBaikonur cosmodromeBaikonurCosmodromecold warColdWardatadata collectionDataCollectiongalaxyinterferometrykazakhstanlaunchobservationradio telescoperadioastronRadioTelescoperesearchrocketrussiaspacetelescopeZenit-2SBSun, 17 Jul 2011 20:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple patent app sheds light on wireless charging dreams, NFMR love affair]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/07/apple-patent-app-sheds-light-on-wireless-charging-dreams-nfmr-l/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/07/apple-patent-app-sheds-light-on-wireless-charging-dreams-nfmr-l/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/07/apple-patent-app-sheds-light-on-wireless-charging-dreams-nfmr-l/#comments Apple threw quite the wireless party by introducing PC Free and iCloud at yesterday's WWDC keynote, but it seems that the engineers in Cupertino may have even more tricks up their sleeve. Judging by a recently filed patent application, the company's hoping to add charging to its list of cord-cutting services. Specifically, the patent describes building a NFMR (near-field magnetic resolution) power supply directly into your iMac so it can charge your iPhone, iPad, or even peripherals -- such as a keyboard or mouse, when equipped with a special antenna -- without the assistance of your ol' trusty charging cords or batteries. Sporting a somewhat mature iMac that's operating sans NFMR? Pop a special USB dongle in that bad boy and presto, you're good to go. The patent points out that the range is limited to one meter, though there may be ways to install repeaters in peripherals to extend that distance further. Of course, patents won't guarantee we'll be grabbing the scissors to cut our cords anytime soon, but at least we won't have to rely on these things for the rest of eternity.

Filed under:

Apple patent app sheds light on wireless charging dreams, NFMR love affair originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 07 Jun 2011 09:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antennaapplechargechargingdongleelectricityenergyiMacinductive chargingInductiveChargingiOSiPadiPhoneiPod TouchIpodTouchNFMRpatentpatent apppatent applicationPatentAppPatentApplicationperipheralspowerrepeaterusbUSB dongleUsbDonglewirelesswireless chargingWirelessChargingTue, 07 Jun 2011 09:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Garmin's Astro 320 GPS handheld offers nine-mile coverage, keeps your hunting dogs in line]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/02/garmins-astro-320-gps-handheld-offers-nine-mile-coverage-keeps/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/02/garmins-astro-320-gps-handheld-offers-nine-mile-coverage-keeps/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/02/garmins-astro-320-gps-handheld-offers-nine-mile-coverage-keeps/#comments Before you and your pooches head out to hunt innocent ducks this year, you might wanna check out Garmin's new Astro 320 dog tracker -- a handheld GPS device designed to help hunters keep even closer tabs on their four-legged sentries. The latest addition to the Astro family can simultaneously track up to ten hunting dogs per receiver, with a revamped antenna and three-axis electronic compass covering up to nine miles of flat terrain. Boasting a 20-hour battery life, the 1.7GB handheld can also tell hunters whether their canines are running or pointing, while its mapping capabilities provide their precise coordinates relative to powerlines, buildings, and individual trees. All this information is displayed on a 2.6-inch display, where users will be able to access 100k or 24k topographic and satellite maps. A keypad lock function, meanwhile, will make sure you don't accidentally press any buttons while you're in the thick of a hound-led hunt. The handheld will be available in July for $500, with the full system (including a DC 40 tracking collar) priced at $650. You can flip through the gallery below for images of some antenna-toting doggies, or head past the break for a more testosterone-laced pic and the full PR.

Gallery: Garmin Astro 320

Continue reading Garmin's Astro 320 GPS handheld offers nine-mile coverage, keeps your hunting dogs in line

Garmin's Astro 320 GPS handheld offers nine-mile coverage, keeps your hunting dogs in line originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 02 Jun 2011 12:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.7GB100k2.6-inch24Kanimalantennaastro 320Astro320collardc 40dc 40 collar trackerDC40Dc40CollarTrackerdog trackerdogsDogTrackerelectronic compassElectronicCompassgarmingarmin astrogarmin astro 320GarminAstroGarminAstro320hunthunterhuntingkeypadkeypad lockKeypadLockmappingmapssafetysatellite imagerySatelliteImagerythree-axistopographic mapTopographicMaptrackerThu, 02 Jun 2011 12:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft motion controller concept kicks sand in Kinect's puny face]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/11/microsoft-motion-controller-concept-kicks-sand-in-kinects-puny/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/11/microsoft-motion-controller-concept-kicks-sand-in-kinects-puny/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/11/microsoft-motion-controller-concept-kicks-sand-in-kinects-puny/#comments Think your body's a temple? Turns out it's actually just the antenna the temple's staff uses to watch football when they're done praying. A group of engineers from Microsoft Research showcased a technology at Vancouver's Conference on Human Factors in Computing that offers gesture-based control on a scale that could make the company's Kinect controller downright laughable. The team demonstrated how it could harness the human body's reception of electromagnetic noise to create gesture-based computer interaction that does away with the need for a camera -- though a receiver is worn on the body (the neck, in this case). The system uses the unique signals given off in different parts of the home to help measure the interaction, effectively turning one's walls into giant control pads, which can regulate things like lighting and the thermostat. Hopefully games, too, because we can't wait to play Pac-Man with our bedrooms.

Microsoft motion controller concept kicks sand in Kinect's puny face originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 11 May 2011 21:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antennaConference on Human Factors in ComputingConferenceOnHumanFactorsInComputingcontrolcontrollerelectro magnetic radiationElectroMagneticRadiationhands freeHandsFreekinectMicrosoftmicrosoft researchMicrosoftResearchmotion controllerMotionControllerresearchvancouverWed, 11 May 2011 21:29:00 EST<![CDATA[LG adds 'Tweet-TV' enabled Android phone to its list of Mobile DTV prototypes]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/11/lg-adds-tweet-tv-enabled-android-phone-to-its-list-of-mobile-d/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/11/lg-adds-tweet-tv-enabled-android-phone-to-its-list-of-mobile-d/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/11/lg-adds-tweet-tv-enabled-android-phone-to-its-list-of-mobile-d/#comments Whenever mobile digital television broadcasts finally take off LG will be ready and its latest concept design -- following the autostereoscopic 3D screen shown at CES -- is the Tweet-TV pictured above. At the National Association of Broadcasters show this week it's demonstrating the prototype Android phone with a Harris MDTV antenna that also pulls in relevant tweets and displays them over the broadcast being watched. Whether or not a dose of social networking will help MDTV succeed where others have failed remains to be seen but first we'll see if it manages to reach 40% of the US population later this year. The press release and a bigger picture follow after the break.

Continue reading LG adds 'Tweet-TV' enabled Android phone to its list of Mobile DTV prototypes

LG adds 'Tweet-TV' enabled Android phone to its list of Mobile DTV prototypes originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 11 Apr 2011 05:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antennabroadcastdigital televisionDigitalTelevisionharrislgmobile dtvMobileDtvnabnab 2011Nab2011national association of broadcastersNationalAssociationOfBroadcasterstweet-tvMon, 11 Apr 2011 05:52:00 EST<![CDATA[iPad 2 sliced up again, this time in the name of radio science]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/30/ipad-2-sliced-up-again-this-time-in-the-name-of-radio-science/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/30/ipad-2-sliced-up-again-this-time-in-the-name-of-radio-science/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/30/ipad-2-sliced-up-again-this-time-in-the-name-of-radio-science/#comments By now you've probably watched iFixit's recent iPad 2 teardown video several times while drooling profusely, but we just know you're itching to find out what's different with the innards of the WiFi-only, GSM, and CDMA versions. Well once again, iFixit's got you covered -- via an "exceptionally cool" user-contributed post, this time. A grand total of three iPad 2s were sacrificed in this round, revealing variations in case design, antenna count, WWAN board layout, radio chipset choices, and headphone jack assemblies. Besides clearly visible changes like the black antenna window on the 3G models and the microSIM slot on the GSM version, it's interesting to note that Apple made the same design choices with the iPad 2 and the iPhone 4. The CDMA model features an additional antenna over its GSM sibling, and uses a Qualcomm Gobi dual-mode radio which supports both CDMA and GSM -- the latter being unused -- along with an integrated GPS receiver, just like the iPhone 4 for Verizon. The GSM version, meanwhile, uses an Infineon chipset for GSM and a separate Broadcom module for GPS, just like the global iPhone 4. Follow the source link below for more sordid details plus high-resolution pictures.

iPad 2 sliced up again, this time in the name of radio science originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 30 Mar 2011 03:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>337S3833antennaAppleApple iPad 2AppleIpad2ATTBCM4751BroadcomCDMAGobiGSMiFixitiPad 2Ipad2MDM6600QualcommQualcomm GobiQualcommGobiSIMteardownVerizonWWANWed, 30 Mar 2011 03:37:00 EST<![CDATA[Alcatel-Lucent's lightRadio shoves a base station in a box, minimalists cheer]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/08/alcatel-lucents-lightradio-shoves-a-base-station-in-a-box-mini/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/08/alcatel-lucents-lightradio-shoves-a-base-station-in-a-box-mini/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/08/alcatel-lucents-lightradio-shoves-a-base-station-in-a-box-mini/#comments They've been fashioned after palm trees, Christ on the cross, and what look to be Dyson Ball vacuum attachments. But now, Alcatel-Lucent is giving cellphone towers a makeover that might actually stick. The company's new broadband base station solution, known as lightRadio, eliminates the need for cumbersome huts at the base of cellphone towers and packs antennas into a series of 2.5-inch boxes, while simultaneously improving capacity and reducing cost. These so-called radio cubes combine 2G, 3G, and LTE antennas with an SoC for processing, making them small enough to prop up on a lamp post. They're firmware upgradable, and utilize beamforming to more efficiently connect to wireless devices; according to the company, groups of 'em can not only increase broadband capacity by 30 percent, but also cut operation costs and CO2 emissions in half. Clearly, lightRadio makes a compelling case for narrowing the digital divide, but it won't be available broadly until 2012, which means the creative cover ups will just keep on coming. Sorry, JC.

[Thanks, Nathan]

Alcatel-Lucent's lightRadio shoves a base station in a box, minimalists cheer originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 08 Feb 2011 01:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Alcatel-Lucentantennabase stationBaseStationbroadbandbroadband accessBroadbandAccessCell Towercellphone towerCellphoneTowerCellTowerdigital divideDigitalDividelightRadioradioradio cuberadio cubesRadioCubeRadioCubessystem on a chipSystemOnAChiptowerTue, 08 Feb 2011 01:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Research shocker! Keyless car entry systems can be hacked easily, elegantly]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/16/research-shocker-keyless-car-entry-systems-can-be-hacked-easily/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/16/research-shocker-keyless-car-entry-systems-can-be-hacked-easily/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/16/research-shocker-keyless-car-entry-systems-can-be-hacked-easily/#comments We know you are vigilant enough not to trust your car's security to a wireless system, but plenty of other folks like the convenience of putting away the metallic keys and getting into their vehicles with a bit of Bond-like swagger. Professor Srdjan Capkun of ETH Zurich found himself perched on the fence between these two groups when he recently purchased a vehicle with a keyless entry system, so he did what any good researcher would: he tried to bypass its security measures. In total, he and his team tested 10 models from eight car makers and their results were pretty conclusive: each of the tested vehicles was broken into and driven away using a very simple and elegant method. Keyless entry systems typically work by sending a low-powered signal from the car to your key fob, with the two working only when they're near each other, but the wily Zurich profs were able to intercept and extend that signal via antennas acting as repeaters, resulting in your key activating your car even when it's nowhere near it. The signal-repeating antennae have to be pretty close to both the key and the car, but that's why heist movies stress the importance of teamwork. Hit the source link for all the chilling details.

Research shocker! Keyless car entry systems can be hacked easily, elegantly originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 16 Jan 2011 19:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antennacarcarscrimeencryptionentryeth zurichEthZurichfobhackhackingkeykeylesskeyless entryKeylessEntrylockrelayrepeaterrepeatersresearchsecurityshockerswitzerlandtheftuniversityunlockwirelesszurichSun, 16 Jan 2011 19:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Verizon's iPhone 4 has a CDMA-specific antenna, no other changes made]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/11/verizons-iphone-4-has-a-new-antenna-design/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/11/verizons-iphone-4-has-a-new-antenna-design/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/11/verizons-iphone-4-has-a-new-antenna-design/#comments
 Would you look at that, Verizon's iPhone 4 has four notches punctuating its external antenna array -- one more than you may find on AT&T's version, with the top notch migrating to the side. Before you all jump on conspiracy theories about fixes and such, Tim Cook has just confirmed on stage that changes had to be made to work on the CDMA network, meaning that for users this is pretty much an aesthetic alteration. Otherwise, you're looking at an almost identical device to what AT&T users have been enjoying since June of last year -- savvy nerds will just be able to tell the CDMA version apart at one glance.

Verizon's iPhone 4 has a CDMA-specific antenna, no other changes made originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 11 Jan 2011 11:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antennaapplecdmaces2011eventiphoneiphone 4Iphone4verizonverizon eventverizon wirelessVerizonEventVerizonWirelessvzwTue, 11 Jan 2011 11:17:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple applies for 'logo antenna' patent, hides your resonator behind the brand indicator]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/24/apple-applies-for-logo-antenna-patent-hides-your-resonator-be/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/24/apple-applies-for-logo-antenna-patent-hides-your-resonator-be/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/24/apple-applies-for-logo-antenna-patent-hides-your-resonator-be/#commentsApple applies for 'logo antenna' patent, hides your resonator behind the brand indicator Embedding an antenna in the external body of a phone? Maybe not such a good idea. Hiding it behind the logo sounds a little more practical, and that's the idea Apple wrote up in a patent application dated June 17th, 2009, back before we knew antennas and gates could be so wickedly conjoined. That was also before we knew about the iPad, which seems to have one of these so-called "logo antennas" within it, as found when iFixit did their dirty thing. The same can be said for iMacs, which also have antennas peering through an apple-shaped hole to avoid any reception issues caused by an aluminum chassis. It looks to be a good solution, but not exactly a novel one. In roaming around the USPTO archives we found a similar 2003 patent from Dell also called "Logo Antenna," the big difference being that while Apple's logo forms a window for the antenna the logo in Dell's patent actually is the antenna.

Apple applies for 'logo antenna' patent, hides your resonator behind the brand indicator originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 24 Dec 2010 09:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antennaappleimacipadlogologo antennaLogoAntennapatentpatent applicationPatentApplicationwifiwirelessFri, 24 Dec 2010 09:05:00 EST<![CDATA[CSIRO's Ngara internet transmission project begins in Tasmania, shows hopes for rural broadband]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/20/csiros-ngara-internet-transmission-project-begins-in-tasmania/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/20/csiros-ngara-internet-transmission-project-begins-in-tasmania/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/20/csiros-ngara-internet-transmission-project-begins-in-tasmania/#comments Hard to say if you're aware, but Australia's Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (best known 'round these parts at CSIRO) was the first to develop the WiFi transmission technologies that are widely used on Planet Earth today, and they've got stacks of infringement lawsuits to prove it. Now, the organization is testing out a radical new approach to solve the rural broadband problem, and rather than relying on newly opened spectrum or other forms of black magic, they're simply tasking existing analog TV antennas to work a little overtime. Put simply, Ngara uses the broadcast towers that already exist in rural towns that receive television signals, and then with a new set-top box and a modified TV antenna, it's able to funnel broadband internet into faraway homes. Recent tests in Tasmania -- sections with higher populations of Devils than Earthlings -- have shown the uplink working just fine, but they're still a good ways out from getting data to download. Project manager David Robertson surmises that it'll be around four years before the technology is ready for the commercial market, and you can bet your bottom (Australian) dollar that we'll be counting down the days. And so will everyone else stuck in the Big Apple wondering why Jimmy McMillan didn't get elected for mayor.

[Image courtesy of Geoff Ambler / CSIRO]

CSIRO's Ngara internet transmission project begins in Tasmania, shows hopes for rural broadband originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Dec 2010 02:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antennaaustraliabroadbandCSIROnational broadband networkNationalBroadbandNetworkNgaraprototyperural broadbandRuralBroadbandtelevisiontestingtransmissiontvwifiwirelessMon, 20 Dec 2010 02:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Chevy builds antenna into body of 2011 Camaro convertible, includes free bumpers for all (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/19/chevy-builds-antenna-into-body-of-2011-camaro-convertible-inclu/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/19/chevy-builds-antenna-into-body-of-2011-camaro-convertible-inclu/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/19/chevy-builds-antenna-into-body-of-2011-camaro-convertible-inclu/#commentsChevy builds antenna into body of 2011 Camaro convertible, includes free bumpers for all We know all about the great woes that can befall a company when it tries to integrate an antenna into the body of its product, so we couldn't resist covering Chevrolet's latest attempt to do the same -- but on a larger scale. Early versions of the 2011 drop-top Camaro found themselves rolling out and about with a rather unsightly appendage hanging off the rear, a big whip antenna that was a little too genuinely retro to go with the machine's throwback styling cues. On hardtop Camaros the antenna is integrated into the rear windshield but, given the disappearing nature of this car's roof, that wasn't possible here. For help GM turned to two dedicated Antenna Engineers, Don Hibbard and Gregg Kittinger, who managed to find a way to bury the unsightly thing inside the svelte spoiler perched on the rear deck lid. Problem solved -- well, except that XM and OnStar require a separate shark fin that can sadly still be seen hanging out on the trunk. Maybe the 2012 model will be totally fresh and clean.

Continue reading Chevy builds antenna into body of 2011 Camaro convertible, includes free bumpers for all (video)

Chevy builds antenna into body of 2011 Camaro convertible, includes free bumpers for all (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 19 Dec 2010 03:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 chevrolet camaro2011ChevroletCamaroantennacamarochevroletchevygeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgmspoilervideoSun, 19 Dec 2010 03:03:00 EST<![CDATA[HTC responds to HD7 death grip reports, says some signal drop is 'inevitable']]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/03/htc-responds-to-hd7-death-grip-reports-says-some-signal-drop-is/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/03/htc-responds-to-hd7-death-grip-reports-says-some-signal-drop-is/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/03/htc-responds-to-hd7-death-grip-reports-says-some-signal-drop-is/#comments Oh boy. We'd actually passed over reports that the HTC HD7 suffers from a "death grip" issue this past week, since we think it's been well-proven that you can get almost any phone to drop some signal if you hold it exactly right, but apparently the furor's gotten loud enough to merit an official HTC response. Here's the statement, sent to Computer Weekly:
Quality in industrial design is of key importance to HTC. To ensure the best possible signal strength, antennas are placed in the area least likely to be covered by a person's face or hands while the phone is in use. However, it is inevitable that a phone's signal strength will weaken a little when covered in its entirety by a user's palm or fingers. We test all of our phones extensively and are confident that under normal circumstances reception strength and performance will be more than sufficient for the operation of the phone when network coverage is also adequate.
Yes, that sounds almost exactly like what Apple said during its iPhone 4 Antennagate press conference, but that makes sense -- we wouldn't honestly expect HTC to say anything else, even though John Gruber points out that the company told the Wall Street Journal that Apple's reception problems were "certainly not common" in July. But we do find it extremely interesting that the HD7 is clearly based on the HTC HD2, a handset which came out over a year ago and suffered from reports of similar reception issues. (In fact, a post at xda-developers in June noted that the HD2 has the same death grip issue as the iPhone 4.) Whatever the case, much of the problem seems to stem from the fact that the HD2 / HD7 antenna is located at the bottom of the phone where it's most likely to be covered by a user's hand, so it looks like the ultimate answer for HD7 owners is a familiar one: you're holding it wrong. Video after the break.

Continue reading HTC responds to HD7 death grip reports, says some signal drop is 'inevitable'

HTC responds to HD7 death grip reports, says some signal drop is 'inevitable' originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 03 Dec 2010 10:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antennaantenna bugAntennaBugbugdeath gripDeathGriphd7htchtc hd7HtcHd7issuereceptionstatementvideoFri, 03 Dec 2010 10:17:00 EST<![CDATA[Scientists finally find a practical use for metamaterials: boosting antenna performance (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/24/scientists-finally-find-a-practical-use-for-metamaterials-boost/http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/24/scientists-finally-find-a-practical-use-for-metamaterials-boost/http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/24/scientists-finally-find-a-practical-use-for-metamaterials-boost/#commentsScientists finally find a practical use for metamaterials: boosting antenna performance (video)Metamaterials can do all sorts of cool things in theory, like create invisibility cloaks or focus lasers. In practice, though, they're rather less useful. Or at least they were, before the team at Fractal Antenna figured out that a simple sleeve made out of fractal-based metamaterials triples the bandwidth of a simple monopole antenna and boosts its gain by 3dB. All you need to do is slip the fractal sleeve on and, hey presto, instant super antenna. You can see it demonstrated in the video after the break before reading all the nitty, gritty, infinitely-repeating details in the PR, which is down there too.

Continue reading Scientists finally find a practical use for metamaterials: boosting antenna performance (video)

Scientists finally find a practical use for metamaterials: boosting antenna performance (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 24 Nov 2010 04:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antennafractalfractal antennafractal antenna systems incFractalAntennaFractalAntennaSystemsIncmetamateralmetamaterialsvideoWed, 24 Nov 2010 04:29:00 EST<![CDATA[How would you change Apple's iPhone 4?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/27/how-would-you-change-apples-iphone-4/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/27/how-would-you-change-apples-iphone-4/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/27/how-would-you-change-apples-iphone-4/#comments We know, half of you aren't even going to read past the headline before you start angrily banging away about Apple's admitted antenna gaff and the still-not-totally-fixed proximity sensor, but we're urging you to look deeper. Think harder. Critique your criticisms. In all seriousness, Apple's iPhone 4 garnered more attention (negative or otherwise) than any other phone released this calendar year, and for good reason -- in fact, Apple itself had to hold an emergency press event just to announce what could've been announced in a PR blast: everyone's getting a free case. That said, Cupertino has still managed to move millions of units in just a few months, and that demand doesn't seem to be dropping off at any significant rate. If you're one of the lucky (or unlucky) ones that have managed to procure Apple's latest iPhone, we're overly anxious to hear your thoughts on changing it. How would you have addressed the antenna issue? Would you have preferred a less drastic departure from the 3GS form factor? Would you have offered more colors than white and black? Thrown in Bluetooth 3.0 for kicks? Go ahead, the floor's yours -- just don't abuse it, cool?

How would you change Apple's iPhone 4? originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 27 Aug 2010 22:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antennaantenna issueantennagateAntennaIssueappleapple iphoneapple iphone 4AppleIphoneAppleIphone4attfeaturesfixHow would you changeHowWouldYouChangehwyciosios 4Ios4iphoneiPhone 4Iphone4problemproblemsreceptionreception issueReceptionIssuesmartphoneFri, 27 Aug 2010 22:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Motorola takes another shot at the iPhone 4, says Droid X is 'no jacket required']]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/28/motorola-takes-another-shot-at-the-iphone-4-says-droid-x-is-no/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/28/motorola-takes-another-shot-at-the-iphone-4-says-droid-x-is-no/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/28/motorola-takes-another-shot-at-the-iphone-4-says-droid-x-is-no/#comments Well this is getting good. Motorola was one of the first to take a subtle swipe at Apple's iPhone 4 antenna dilemma with an ad saying you could hold the Droid X "any way you like," Apple came right back with a video purportedly showing the Droid X suffering similar attenuation issues when held in the right hand, and now Moto's responded with this cheeky ad that plays off Apple's free iPhone case solution by saying the Droid X can make calls "without a bulky phone jacket." Yeah, it's pretty good -- particularly because unlike most other phones, we haven't been able to death grip the Droid X with any noticeable effect on 3G reception. (Although, truth be told, we can drop the WiFi signal by a few bars pretty easily.) Either way, we're certainly enjoying this little slice of swagger from Moto -- check a larger version after the break.

Continue reading Motorola takes another shot at the iPhone 4, says Droid X is 'no jacket required'

Motorola takes another shot at the iPhone 4, says Droid X is 'no jacket required' originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 28 Jul 2010 20:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adadsadvertisingantennaantennagateappledroiddroid xDroidXiphone 4Iphone4motorolano jacket requiredNoJacketRequiredreceptionWed, 28 Jul 2010 20:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Best Buy to offer free invisibleSHIELD 4fix to aggravated iPhone 4 owners]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/28/best-buy-to-offer-free-invisibleshield-4fix-to-aggravated-iphone/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/28/best-buy-to-offer-free-invisibleshield-4fix-to-aggravated-iphone/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/28/best-buy-to-offer-free-invisibleshield-4fix-to-aggravated-iphone/#comments It's hard to say for certain what exactly this flyer means, but it sure looks as if at least some iPhone 4 owners will be able to snatch a free invisibleSHIELD 4fix (valued at $9.99 or so) from their local Best Buy. Based on a number of tips that we've received, we're getting the impression that the yellow-tagged retailer could be handing out (and installing) completely free side coverings for any iPhone 4 owner that waltzes into a store, presumably as a proactive measure to fend off returns or to upsell consumers on an entire invisibleSHIELD / separate case. Nothing about this notice makes clear that you actually have to buy your iPhone 4 from Best Buy in order to take advantage, but we probably wouldn't waste a lunch break giving this a go without a verbal confirmation from your local store manager. Until it's made official, of course.

Update: We've heard from another tipster that the deal is indeed legitimate, and it's for any human with an iPhone 4, not just those who purchased their phone from Best Buy. We'd recommend calling your local store to double check, but things are looking up.

Update 2: Ah, so we've finally received the full skinny from another tipster. The offer only applies to those who purchased their iPhone 4 from Best Buy / Best Buy Mobile or for Best Buy Reward Zone members. Granted, it's pretty easy to sign up for the aforementioned reward program, but those are the stipulations. The official BB name for the product you'll be getting is the Zagg SideShield, which would cost you $9.99 otherwise.

[Thanks, Anonymous]

Gallery: Best Buy's free invisibleSHIELD 4fix for iPhone 4 offer

Continue reading Best Buy to offer free invisibleSHIELD 4fix to aggravated iPhone 4 owners

Best Buy to offer free invisibleSHIELD 4fix to aggravated iPhone 4 owners originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 28 Jul 2010 10:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antennaantenna issueantennagateAntennaIssueappleapple iphone 4AppleIphone4Best BuyBestBuycaseexclusiveinvisible SHIELDinvisibleSHIELDinvisibleSHIELD 4fixInvisibleshield4fixiphoneiphone 4Iphone4reception issuereception issuesReceptionIssueReceptionIssuesSideShieldzaggWed, 28 Jul 2010 10:53:00 EST<![CDATA[Switched On: Of guiltlessness and giveaways]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/24/switched-on-of-guiltlessness-and-giveaways/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/24/switched-on-of-guiltlessness-and-giveaways/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/24/switched-on-of-guiltlessness-and-giveaways/#commentsEach week Ross Rubin contributes Switched On, a column about consumer technology.

Beyond an opportunity for a lucky few to visit the surreal and sophisticated wireless testing labs buried deep within the Apple campus, the Steve Jobs "Antennagate" press conference had few surprises in terms of using a tool at Apple's disposal -- its own Bumpers (augmented by those of third parties) -- to address a vulnerability of the iPhone 4 antenna design. The difference between the iPhone 4 and other devices is the clear marking of the spot at which physical contact causes the signal to degrade. Optimists could consider this a visual reminder to avoid contact while pessimists could see a constant reminder of imperfection. Regardless, at its press conference, Apple added - and continues to add -- visual verification of its assertion that multiple handsets (or at least smartphones) can fall victim to a strategic grasp.

Beyond that, the only muted revelation of the day was that AT&T is reporting that the iPhone 4 is monitoring dropped calls on the iPhone 4 at a rate ever so slightly above that of the 3GS. However, the 3GS did not have a reputation for being particularly tenacious at holding on to a call. Indeed, were it not for all the heat the previous iPhone took at AT&T, perhaps Apple would not have had to push for so radical an antenna redesign. Therefore, it would have been interesting to know how the iPhone 4 compared to the AT&T smartphone average (skewed as it is to iPhones anyway), especially given the earlier Apple demonstration of how other smartphones can suffer from attenuation.

Continue reading Switched On: Of guiltlessness and giveaways

Switched On: Of guiltlessness and giveaways originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 24 Jul 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antennaantenna gateAntennaGateapplecolumncolumnsiphoneiphone 4Iphone4switched onSwitchedOnSat, 24 Jul 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple starts refunding Bumper purchases automagically]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/23/apple-starts-refunding-bumper-purchases-automatically/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/23/apple-starts-refunding-bumper-purchases-automatically/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/23/apple-starts-refunding-bumper-purchases-automatically/#comments Automatic refunds, or so the email says. We've been on the receiving end of a deluge of tips this morning pointing out that Apple has begun funneling cash back into its users' pockets -- a most unusual event, to be sure -- to live up to its retroactive promise of free Bumpers for all (who buy their iPhone 4 before September 30). If the particular wording is to be trusted, that should mean that even those who haven't yet bothered to put in a claim, but did purchase a Bumper, will find themselves enriched in due course. Apple estimates this bandaid solution to its antenna problems will cost $175 million in real cash money, but we suspect the biggest price to pay will be in the form of pride and reputation.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Apple starts refunding Bumper purchases automagically originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 23 Jul 2010 01:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antennaantenna issueAntennaIssueappleapple refundAppleRefundbumperbumperscasecasesfreeiphoneiphone 4Iphone4refundFri, 23 Jul 2010 01:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple shows Nokia's N97 Mini can be force choked, too (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/20/apple-shows-nokias-n97-mini-can-be-force-choked-too-video/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/20/apple-shows-nokias-n97-mini-can-be-force-choked-too-video/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/20/apple-shows-nokias-n97-mini-can-be-force-choked-too-video/#comments Nokia claims it always prioritizes antenna performance over physical design, and we'll take them at their word, but that apparently didn't exempt one Espoo handset from Apple's grip of doom. Here's the Nokia N97 Mini going down for the count, from a full seven bars to two. Of course, Apple doesn't mention whether calls or data drop when the handset's held this way. Video after the break.

[Thanks, Lyndon W.]

Continue reading Apple shows Nokia's N97 Mini can be force choked, too (video)

Apple shows Nokia's N97 Mini can be force choked, too (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 20 Jul 2010 23:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antennaantennagateAppledesigniPhone 4Iphone4NokiaperformancereceptionrfsignalwirelessTue, 20 Jul 2010 23:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Antenna-aid bandages your iPhone 4 reception issue, hopes for role in next Eminem video]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/20/antenna-aid-bandages-your-iphone-4-reception-issue-hopes-for-ro/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/20/antenna-aid-bandages-your-iphone-4-reception-issue-hopes-for-ro/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/20/antenna-aid-bandages-your-iphone-4-reception-issue-hopes-for-ro/#comments Oh, Steve -- you should've known better. You show up and remove a laptop from a manila envelope, and Earth's most creative go and create a case fashioned out of one. You go and suggest that Eminem could "come out with a band-aid that goes over the corner" of your controversial iPhone 4, and well... this happens. You could wait for a free case, or you could buy six of these Antenna-aids for five bucks. The choice is obvious.

Antenna-aid bandages your iPhone 4 reception issue, hopes for role in next Eminem video originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 20 Jul 2010 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antennaantenna issueAntenna-aidantennagateAntennaIssueappleapple iphoneapple iphone 4AppleIphoneAppleIphone4band aidband-aidBandAidcomedycoveragefunnyhilariousiphoneiphone 4Iphone4receptionTue, 20 Jul 2010 13:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Samsung joins the crowd, rejects Apple's Omnia 2 antenna claims]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/20/samsung-joins-the-crowd-rejects-apples-omnia-2-antenna-claims/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/20/samsung-joins-the-crowd-rejects-apples-omnia-2-antenna-claims/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/20/samsung-joins-the-crowd-rejects-apples-omnia-2-antenna-claims/#commentsSamsung joins the crowd, rejects Apple's Omnia 2 antenna claims RIM and Nokia aren't the only ones saying "WTF Steve!?" after last Friday's press conference attempted to draw the competition into the Antennagate saga. Samsung has issued its own choice reaction about supposed problems with the Omnia 2, though this one is somewhat less sternly worded than the others:
The antenna is located at the bottom of the Omnia 2 phone, while iPhone's antenna is on the lower left side of the device. Our design keeps the distance between a hand and an antenna. We have fully conducted field tests before the rollout of smartphones. Reception problems have not happened so far, and there is no room for such problems to happen in the future.
Why is Samsung being rather more polite? Because it's full of really nice people? Or, is it because the iPhone 4 is stuffed with Samsung memory chips? We'll let your level of cynicism be your guide here.

Samsung joins the crowd, rejects Apple's Omnia 2 antenna claims originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 20 Jul 2010 09:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antennaantenna issueantennagateAntennaIssueappleiphoneiphone 4Iphone4omnia 2Omnia2samsungstatementsteve jobsSteveJobsTue, 20 Jul 2010 09:31:00 EST<![CDATA[HTC fires back at Apple antenna demo with percentage pew-pew]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/17/htc-fires-back-at-apple-antenna-demo-with-percentage-pew-pew/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/17/htc-fires-back-at-apple-antenna-demo-with-percentage-pew-pew/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/17/htc-fires-back-at-apple-antenna-demo-with-percentage-pew-pew/#comments Apple's Friday press conference may have left a bad taste in some rival handset manufacturer's mouths, but not all of them are taking Cupertino's derision of their devices seriously -- HTC's Droid Eris was arguably the most affected by the grip of doom, its bars dropping to zilch when held, but the Taiwanese company's keeping any controversial opinions to itself for now. Instead, it's sharing a simple percentage to help clear the air. Whereas Apple claimed over 0.55 percent of customers called AppleCare with reception-related complaints, HTC's Eric Lin told Pocket-lint the Droid Eris technical support rate was 0.016 percent, nearly thirty-four times lower -- though even with a seven-month head start, we have to wonder if the Eris sold close to three million by the time Verizon brought the axe down.

HTC fires back at Apple antenna demo with percentage pew-pew originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 17 Jul 2010 20:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antennaantenna issueantennagateAntennaIssueAppledesignDroidHTCHTC Droid ErisHtcDroidErisiPhone 4Iphone4receptionsignalVerizonverizon wirelessVerizonWirelessVZWSat, 17 Jul 2010 20:08:00 EST<![CDATA[Inside Apple's 'black lab' wireless testing facilities (update: video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/16/inside-apples-black-lab-wireless-testing-facilities/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/16/inside-apples-black-lab-wireless-testing-facilities/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/16/inside-apples-black-lab-wireless-testing-facilities/#comments It's not surprising that after Apple finished explaining the iPhone 4 antenna issues to the press today, the company wanted to go one step further and say "yes, actually, we do test the hell out of these phones before we release them to the public." Though Steve Jobs went over the lengthy and intensive kinds of radio evaluation that goes on at Apple's headquarters, it didn't seem to be enough for the folks in Cupertino. And that, we suspect, is why we were invited (along with a small group of other journalists) to take a brief tour of Apple's Infinite Loop labs. Though we weren't allowed to shoot video or take pictures, we can tell you about what we did -- and what we didn't -- see and hear behind closed doors.

Continue reading Inside Apple's 'black lab' wireless testing facilities (update: video)

Inside Apple's 'black lab' wireless testing facilities (update: video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 16 Jul 2010 23:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antennaappleapple black labapple iphoneapple iphone 4apple labapple labsapple testing facilitiesAppleBlackLabAppleIphoneAppleIphone4AppleLabAppleLabsAppleTestingFacilitiesblack labblack labsBlackLabBlackLabsiphoneiphone 4iphone 4 receptionIphone4Iphone4ReceptionlaboratorieslaboratorylabsreceptiontourvideowirelessFri, 16 Jul 2010 23:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple affirms: no software fix for iPhone 4 antenna issue]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/16/apple-affirms-no-software-fix-for-iphone-4-antenna-issue/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/16/apple-affirms-no-software-fix-for-iphone-4-antenna-issue/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/16/apple-affirms-no-software-fix-for-iphone-4-antenna-issue/#comments In case it wasn't obvious enough from Apple's agitated response to our question during today's iPhone 4 Q&A session in Cupertino, there's no software fix in the pipeline for the antenna issues that are plaguing users today. A prior report in the New York Times seemed fairly confident that the troubles could (and would) be solved in the near term by a simple software update, but the company's own Scott Forstall called said report "patently false." So, there you have it -- the only thing that'll be fixed via software is how big your smallest bar of signal is. Beyond that, you'll need to grab some Duct tape, a free case or a white glove if you're looking to avoid attenuation entirely.

Apple affirms: no software fix for iPhone 4 antenna issue originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 16 Jul 2010 17:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antennaantenna issueantennagateAntennaIssueappleapple iphoneapple iphone 4AppleIphoneAppleIphone4debunkiosios 4Ios4iphoneiphone 4Iphone4issueproblemScott ForstallScottForstallsmartphonesoftwareupdateFri, 16 Jul 2010 17:38:00 EST