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[OmniVision's 12.7-megapixel OV12830 can shoot 24 fps photo bursts from your smartphone]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/31/omnivisions-12-7-megapixel-ov12830-can-shoot-24-fps-photo-burst/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/31/omnivisions-12-7-megapixel-ov12830-can-shoot-24-fps-photo-burst/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/31/omnivisions-12-7-megapixel-ov12830-can-shoot-24-fps-photo-burst/#comments ImageOmniVision has been on a bit of a tear introducing new mobile camera sensors this week, and its newest could well have the biggest impact on smartphones in the next year. The OV12830's 12.7 megapixels don't make it as dense as the 16-megapixel sensors we've seen, but it makes up for that with some mighty fast still photography. As long as the attached phone can handle it, the CMOS sensor can snap full-resolution photos at 24 frames per second, or the kind of relentless shooting speed that would make One X and Galaxy S III fans happy. The same briskness musters 1080p video at 60 fps, even with stabilization thrown in. Production won't start until the fall and likely rules out a flood of 12.7-megapixel phones and tablets until 2013, but the OV12830's dead-on match for the size of current 8-megapixel sensors gives it a good shot at becoming ubiquitous -- and guarantees that phones won't need a giant hump on the back for a higher resolution.

Continue reading OmniVision's 12.7-megapixel OV12830 can shoot 24 fps photo bursts from your smartphone

OmniVision's 12.7-megapixel OV12830 can shoot 24 fps photo bursts from your smartphone originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 31 May 2012 01:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>12.7 megapixel12.7-megapixel12.7Megapixelbackside illuminationbackside-illuminatedBacksideIlluminationcameracamera sensorcamerasCameraSensorcellphonecellphonescmosmobilepostcrossomnivisionomnivision ov12830OmnivisionOv12830ov 12830Ov12830photographysensorsmartphonesmartphonestablettablet pctablet pcsTabletPcTabletPcstabletsThu, 31 May 2012 01:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Adafruit modder builds Captain Jack's Vortex Manipulator / Leela's wrist-lo-jacko-mator for real]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/30/wrist-sensor-mod/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/30/wrist-sensor-mod/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/30/wrist-sensor-mod/#comments Image

This impressive wrist / forearm cuff is the brainchild of Adafruit forum member and modder Stephanie, who has built a sensor platform into the fashion accessory. The device can monitor the exposure value, track your movements over GPS, measure your galvanic skin response, tell you the temperature, humidity and even doubles as a watch and flash-light. It was built around Sparkfun's Pro Micro development board and a boatload of sensors purchased from Adafruit. We might just build one ourselves with a radiation detector, so that we can live out our Pip-Boy fantasies down at the mall.

Gallery: Integrated Sensors Electronic Bracer

Adafruit modder builds Captain Jack's Vortex Manipulator / Leela's wrist-lo-jacko-mator for real originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 30 May 2012 18:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AdafruitAdafruit IndustriesAdafruitIndustriesAlarm ClockAlarmClockCaptain JackCaptainJackExposure ValueExposureValueFlashlightGalvanic Skin ResponseGalvanicSkinResponseGPSHackHackerHackingHumidityIntegrated Sensors Electronic BracerIntegratedSensorsElectronicBracerLeelaModModderModdingPip-BoySensorSparkfunSparkfun Pro MicroSparkfunProMicroTemperatureTorchVortex ManipulatorVortexManipulatorWrist CuffWrist-lo-jacko-matorWristCuffWed, 30 May 2012 18:14:00 EST<![CDATA[OmniVision's OV2722 sensor promises 1080p tablet video chats, probably more than you wanted to see]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/29/omnivision-ov2722-sensor-promises-1080p-tablet-video-chats/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/29/omnivision-ov2722-sensor-promises-1080p-tablet-video-chats/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/29/omnivision-ov2722-sensor-promises-1080p-tablet-video-chats/#comments Image

We're seeing rear cameras on smartphones and tablets get better all the time; what about at the front? OmniVision might have that side tackled through the OV2722, a 1080p-native CMOS camera sensor. It won't allow for magnum opuses of photography like the company's own 16-megapixel behemoth, but it's just big enough and thin enough (at 3mm deep) to give a serious upgrade to the 720p-or-lower front cameras that prevail today, including webcams on Ultrabooks. The new sensor is both thinner and better in low light than an earlier iteration, so we'll hopefully see fewer instances of blurrycam self-portraits and video calls. The OV2722 is in mass production now for unnamed clients, although we're worried that the resolution jump will show us a little too much detail in that chat with Aunt Mildred.

Continue reading OmniVision's OV2722 sensor promises 1080p tablet video chats, probably more than you wanted to see

OmniVision's OV2722 sensor promises 1080p tablet video chats, probably more than you wanted to see originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 29 May 2012 17:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameracamera sensorcamerasCameraSensorcellphonecellphonescmosmobilepostcrossomnivisionomnivision ov2722OmnivisionOv2722ov 2722Ov2722photographysensorsmartphonesmartphonestablettablet pctablet pcsTabletPcTabletPcstabletsultrabookultrabooksweb camWebCamTue, 29 May 2012 17:52:00 EST<![CDATA[Engineer Guy shows how a phone accelerometer works, knows what's up and sideways (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/22/the-engineer-guy-shows-how-a-smartphone-accelerometer-works/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/22/the-engineer-guy-shows-how-a-smartphone-accelerometer-works/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/22/the-engineer-guy-shows-how-a-smartphone-accelerometer-works/#comments Image

We love finding out how things work, and arguably one of the most important parts of the smartphones and tablets we thrive on is the accelerometer gauging our device's orientation. Imagine our delight, then, when we see the University of Illinois' Bill Hammack (i.e. The Engineer Guy) giving a visual rundown of how accelerometers work. Although it's certainly the Cliff's Notes version of what's going on in your Android phone or iPhone, the video does a great job of explaining the basic concepts behind three-axis motion sensing and goes on to illustrate how MEMS chips boil the idea down to the silicon form that's needed for our mobile hardware. Hammack contends that it's one of the coolest (and unsung) parts of a smartphone, and we'd definitely agree; you can see why in the clip after the break.

Continue reading Engineer Guy shows how a phone accelerometer works, knows what's up and sideways (video)

Engineer Guy shows how a phone accelerometer works, knows what's up and sideways (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 22 May 2012 20:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accelerometeraccelerometerscellphonecellphoneshow it is madehow it workshow its madeHowItIsMadeHowItsMadeHowItWorksmemsmobilepostcrossmotionmotion sensorMotionSensorsciencesensorsiliconsmartphonesmartphonestablettablet pctablet pcsTabletPcTabletPcstabletsuniversity of illinoisUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-ChampaignUniversityOfIllinoisUniversityOfIllinoisAtUrbana-champaignTue, 22 May 2012 20:06:00 EST<![CDATA[New OmniVision 16-megapixel camera sensors could record 4K, 60 fps video on your smartphone]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/22/omnivision-16-megapixel-camera-sensors-record-4k-video-on-phones/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/22/omnivision-16-megapixel-camera-sensors-record-4k-video-on-phones/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/22/omnivision-16-megapixel-camera-sensors-record-4k-video-on-phones/#comments Image

Nokia has reportedly been dreaming of PureView phones with 4K video; as of today, OmniVision is walking the walk quite a bit earlier. The 16-megapixel resolution of the OV16820 and OV16825 is something we've seen before, but it now has a massive amount of headroom for video. If your smartphone or camcorder has the processing grunt to handle it, either of the sensors can record 4K (3840 x 2160, to be exact) video at a super-smooth 60 fps, or at the camera's full 4608 x 3456 if you're willing to putt along at 30 fps. The pair of backside-illuminated CMOS sensors can burst-shoot still photos at the bigger size, too, and can handle up to 12-bit RAW. Impressive stuff, but if you were hoping for OmniVision to name devices, you'll be disappointed: it's typically quiet about the customer list, and mass production isn't due for either version until the fall. On the upside, it could be next year that we're feeding our 4K projectors with Mr. Blurrycam smartphone videos.

Continue reading New OmniVision 16-megapixel camera sensors could record 4K, 60 fps video on your smartphone

New OmniVision 16-megapixel camera sensors could record 4K, 60 fps video on your smartphone originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 22 May 2012 15:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4k4k video4k x 2k4kVideo4kX2kbackside illuminatedbackside illuminationbackside-illuminatedBacksideIlluminatedBacksideIlluminationcamcordercamcorderscamera sensorcamerasCameraSensorcellphonescmosdigital imagingDigitalImagingmobilepostcrossomnivisionomnivision ov 16820omnivision ov 16825OmniVision TechnologiesOmnivisionOv16820OmnivisionOv16825OmnivisionTechnologiesov 16820ov 16825Ov16820Ov16825photographyrawsensorsmartphonesmartphonesvideo recordingvideographyVideoRecordingTue, 22 May 2012 15:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Insert Coin: Knut WiFi-enabled sensor hub (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/22/insert-coin-knut-sensor/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/22/insert-coin-knut-sensor/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/22/insert-coin-knut-sensor/#comments In Insert Coin, we look at an exciting new tech project that requires funding before it can hit production. If you'd like to pitch a project, please send us a tip with "Insert Coin" as the subject line.

Image

On the surface, Knut (pronounced Kah-noot) doesn't sound terribly exciting -- it's a pocketable WiFi-enabled device that beams you realtime stats over the web. But consider the possible applications, and you'll be much more anxious to pick one up. You can use Knut to measure humidity in your humidor, the temperature in your fish tank or even the status of a door or window. You can monitor stats in realtime, or set alerts so you'll know something's wrong before your goldfish cooks in the tank, those precious Cuban cigars you smuggled through Customs dry up and crumble or someone sneaks into your house through a window after you check in miles away on Foursquare. After popping in a pair of AAA batteries (which are said to last from 2 weeks to 10 years, depending on the battery and syncing options), you assign Knut an email address, which it then uses to communicate. Other Knuts can use the same email address, from which they'll send updates at pre-set intervals.

Knut ships with built-in temperature and battery level sensors, and it's compatible with a variety of add-ons, from humidity and vibration to door and water presence sensors. You can also create your own sensor using the breakout board. The project creators have developed a functional prototype, but they need to raise additional funds to pay programmers and buy materials for mass production. As usual, that's where you come in. The first 200 Kickstarter backers can hop on board the pre-order train with a pledge of $80, while an unlimited number of devices will be available for $95. A $115 pledge will get you a Knut and an additional sensor, while $175 will up the order to one Knut, three sensors and a three-port hub. There's six weeks left to go on the campaign, with a goal of $25,000 and an estimated September ship date. As always, you'll find everything you need in the demo video and source link, just after the break.

Continue reading Insert Coin: Knut WiFi-enabled sensor hub (video)

Insert Coin: Knut WiFi-enabled sensor hub (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 22 May 2012 12:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fundingfundshubinsert coinInsertCoinkickstarterKnutmeasuremeasurementmeasurementsmicro fundingMicroFundingpledgepledgessensingsensorsensorssponsorvideowifiwirelessTue, 22 May 2012 12:12:00 EST<![CDATA[The mysteries of the CCD revealed (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/16/the-mysteries-of-the-ccd-revealed-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/16/the-mysteries-of-the-ccd-revealed-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/16/the-mysteries-of-the-ccd-revealed-video/#comments The Mysteries of the CCD revealed

Sure, we've explained to you why sensor size matters in a digital camera, but maybe you need to take it back a bit. Maybe, you're not entirely sure how those sensors work in the first place. Well, Bill Hammack, better known as The Engineer Guy, is here to help. After breaking down LCDs and hard drives for your amusement and education, Bill has turned his attention to the CCD. The charge-coupled device is the heart and soul of many a digital camera, turning incoming photons into a charge that the impressively complex processor inside can convert into an image. What makes the CCD so impressive is it's rather ingenious solutions to problems such as interference (no wires, just a shift register) and color reproduction (pixel-sized filters and a hue-flattening algorithm). For more, check out the video after the break.

Continue reading The mysteries of the CCD revealed (video)

The mysteries of the CCD revealed (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 16 May 2012 19:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bill hammackBillHammackCCDcharge-coupled deviceCharge-coupledDeviceengineer guyEngineerGuyimage sensorImageSensorsensorsensorsThe Engineer guyTheEngineerGuyvideoWed, 16 May 2012 19:37:00 EST<![CDATA[Sign language translator turns gestures into spoken letters, makes for a better world (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/15/sign-language-translator-turns-gestures-into-spoken-letters/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/15/sign-language-translator-turns-gestures-into-spoken-letters/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/15/sign-language-translator-turns-gestures-into-spoken-letters/#comments Image

By far one of the greatest challenges of sign language has been to translate it for everyday folk that wouldn't know where to begin a conversation with the deaf. Cornell University engineering students Ranjay Krishna, Seonwoo Lee and Si Ping Wang -- along with some help from Jonathan Lang -- used their final project time this past semester to close this gap in one of the more practical solutions we've seen to date. Their prototype glove uses accelerometers, contact sensors and flex sensors to translate complex finger gestures from the American Sign Language alphabet into spoken letters: after converting hand positions to digital signals, the test unit both speaks out the resulting letters and sends them to a computer, where they can be used for anything from a game (shown in the video below) to, presumably, constructing whole sentences. Along with being accurate, the Cornell work is even designed with a mind towards how it would work in the real world, as the glove and its transmitter are both wireless and powered by 9-volt batteries. We hope that the project leads to a real product and an extra bridge between the deaf and the rest of us, but in the meantime, we'll be happy that at least one form of powered glove is being put to the noblest use possible.

Continue reading Sign language translator turns gestures into spoken letters, makes for a better world (video)

Sign language translator turns gestures into spoken letters, makes for a better world (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 15 May 2012 07:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accelerometercornellCornell UniversityCornellUniversitygesturegesturesglovegloveshand gesturehand gesturesHandGestureHandGesturesprojectresearchsensorsensorssign languagesign language translationsign language translatorSignLanguageSignLanguageTranslationSignLanguageTranslatortranslationtranslatorvideoTue, 15 May 2012 07:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Pebble ties itself up in Twine: sounds so rustic, couldn't be any less (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/11/pebble-twine-connectivity/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/11/pebble-twine-connectivity/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/11/pebble-twine-connectivity/#comments Pebble ties itself up in Twine: sounds so rustic, couldn't be any less (video)

Take an e-ink e-paper smartwatch that's got plenty of willing customers, throw in a WiFi-connected sensor box and well, imagine the possibilities. The founders behind Pebble and Twine hope you are, because they have announced that the pair will be connectable through the latter's web-based interface. This means you'll be able to setup text notifications to your wrist when your laundry's done, when someone's at your door and plenty more mundane real-world tasks. A brief video explains how it should all go down, but try not to get too excited -- pre-orders are sadly sold out.

Continue reading Pebble ties itself up in Twine: sounds so rustic, couldn't be any less (video)

Pebble ties itself up in Twine: sounds so rustic, couldn't be any less (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 11 May 2012 16:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AccelerometerArduinoCrowdsourcingDIYHackHackingHTTPKickstarterminipostpebbleProgrammingSensorSmartWatchSupermechanicalThermometertwineTwittervideoWiFi SensorWifiSensorFri, 11 May 2012 16:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Canon EOS 5D Mark III's light leak fix found to be black tape]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/02/canon-eos-5d-mark-iii-light-leak-fix-is-black-tape/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/02/canon-eos-5d-mark-iii-light-leak-fix-is-black-tape/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/02/canon-eos-5d-mark-iii-light-leak-fix-is-black-tape/#comments ImageWhen Canon promised a fix for the EOS 5D Mark III's preview LCD leaking light, photographers wondered just what the "countermeasures" would be to prevent the display from affecting exposure readouts. The remedy, it turns out, is a simple patch -- of the physical kind, not software. Roger Cicala at LensRentals was brave enough to tear down one of the DSLRs shipping with a fix already in place and found black electrical tape covering the LCD area that would otherwise spill light into the exposure meter. While basic, the solution does the trick, and will no doubt be a relief to shutterbugs who want to know exactly what exposure they'll get while snapping photos in the dark.

Canon EOS 5D Mark III's light leak fix found to be black tape originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 02 May 2012 17:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameracanonCanon EOS 5D Mark IIICanonEos5dMarkIiiDisplaydisplaysdslreoseos 5deos 5d mark iiiEos5dEos5dMarkIiilcdlight leakLightLeakminipostphotographysensorsensorsWed, 02 May 2012 17:13:00 EST<![CDATA[Insert Coin: Rowdy Robot creates Bluetooth 4.0 beacons that activate automatic alerts]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/30/insert-coin-rowdy-robot-bluetooth-4-beacon/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/30/insert-coin-rowdy-robot-bluetooth-4-beacon/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/30/insert-coin-rowdy-robot-bluetooth-4-beacon/#comments In Insert Coin, we look at an exciting new tech project that requires funding before it can hit production. If you'd like to pitch a project, please send us a tip with "Insert Coin" as the subject line.

Insert Coin: Rowdy Robot creates Bluetooth 4.0 beacons that activate automatic alerts

It's no secret that Bluetooth 4.0 is energy efficient, but now a startup called Rowdy Robot wants to use it for something rather less predictable than monitoring heart palpitations during your Tour de France training. A network of little beacons ("tōds") interacts with your iPhone or iPad and lets you receive movement-triggered alerts: like when your kid wanders too far, or when they finally return home after hanging out with the corner cartel. Many uses will be similar to NFC tags, but with the advantage of a vastly greater range of up to 500ft -- plus a single beacon can last for years on a single battery. Of course, it could also work with location-based services, triggering automatic updates as you pedal past the Arc de Triomphe -- but none of this will happen unless you check out the video after the break and help Rowdy Robot meet their $50,000 target.

Continue reading Insert Coin: Rowdy Robot creates Bluetooth 4.0 beacons that activate automatic alerts

Insert Coin: Rowdy Robot creates Bluetooth 4.0 beacons that activate automatic alerts originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 30 Apr 2012 18:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>automaticbeaconbluetoothbluetooth 4.0Bluetooth4.0insert coinInsertCoiniosipadiphonekickstartermobilemobile devicesMobileDevicesproximityreal world actionsRealWorldActionsrowdy robotRowdyRobotsensorsmart beaconSmartBeaconstartupvideoMon, 30 Apr 2012 18:11:00 EST<![CDATA[Fujifilm X-Pro1 mirrorless camera review]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/27/fujifilm-x-pro1-mirrorless-camera-review/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/27/fujifilm-x-pro1-mirrorless-camera-review/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/27/fujifilm-x-pro1-mirrorless-camera-review/#comments Fujifilm X-Pro 1 mirrorless camera review

Hear any mention of retro-styled cameras with exorbitant price tags and it's hard not to get suspicious. That kind of talk brings to mind Leica's incessant re-branding of Panasonic Lumix models, or those unicorn limited editions out of Japan that just leave us baffled. But it's okay, you can relax with the Fujifilm X-Pro1. At $1,700 for the body only it's crazily expensive, sure, but not when you compare to an $8,000 Leica M9-P. Besides, it's a legitimate heir to a strong line of Fuji shooters that includes the much-loved X100 and the more accessible X10. That's a strong pedigree, and no matter how deeply you peer into its mirrorless aperture, the X-Pro1 should offer up enough technology to stop you being cynical.

Like what, you ask? Well, a genuinely surprising bespoke 16-megapixel APS-C sensor, for starters, plus a hybrid viewfinder designed to keep everyone happy all of the time, and a Fuji X lens mount that already has a Leica M9 adapter available (plus others, like Nikon, if you scan eBay). It all adds up to something special, but before you go tweeting this article to whimsical rich uncles, there are also some complicating factors you ought to be aware of. Even in a utopian paradise where everyone could afford this sip of photographic luxury, it's far from certain whether everyone would choose it over other interchangeable lens cameras. Read on past the break and we'll explain why.

Gallery: Fujifilm X-Pro1 review

Continue reading Fujifilm X-Pro1 mirrorless camera review

Fujifilm X-Pro1 mirrorless camera review originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 27 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>16-megapixel16-mpaps-cbespokecameraexpensivef1.4fujifujifilmfujifilm x-pro1FujifilmX-pro1ilcinterchangeable lensinterchangeable lens cameraInterchangeableLensInterchangeableLensCameraleicaleica m9LeicaM9luxuriousmirrorlessphotographyprofessionalreviewsensorvideoFri, 27 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sharp readying 1/2.3-inch, 20.2-megapixel CCD destined for noisy point-and-shoots]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/17/sharp-readying-1-2-3-inch-20-2-megapixel-ccd/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/17/sharp-readying-1-2-3-inch-20-2-megapixel-ccd/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/17/sharp-readying-1-2-3-inch-20-2-megapixel-ccd/#comments Sharp readying 1/2.3-inch, 20.2-megapixel CCD destined for noisy point-and-shoots

As you probably know, megapixels aren't everything. In fact, the more of them you cram into a smaller space, the noisier your images will be. So, you'll forgive us if we don't exactly shout from the mountain tops that Sharp has managed to stick a whopping 20.2 megapixels into a CCD only 1/2.3 inches in size. That does, however, give the RJ23G3BA0LT the highest pixel count in that size range. That's gotta count for something, right?

Sharp readying 1/2.3-inch, 20.2-megapixel CCD destined for noisy point-and-shoots originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 17 Apr 2012 16:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20 megapixel20.2 megapixel20.2Megapixel20MegapixelcameracamerasCCDimage sensorImageSensorminipostRJ23G3BA0LTsensorSharpTue, 17 Apr 2012 16:13:00 EST<![CDATA[RED Dragon 6K sensor upgrade eyes-on (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/16/red-dragon-6k-sensor-upgrade/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/16/red-dragon-6k-sensor-upgrade/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/16/red-dragon-6k-sensor-upgrade/#comments

Image

"Obsolescence Obsolete" -- that's RED's tagline for the just-announced Dragon sensor upgrade, which is set to bring 6K resolution to EPIC and Scarlet cameras beginning later this year. The sensor module was on display at the company's NAB booth today, under a backlit case that could only have been designed to make photographing the new chip a near-impossible task. We did manage to snag a few frames of the device, which appears as a mere silhouette to the naked eye. Sensors aren't designed for us to look at, however -- they're supposed to do the looking -- so we won't get any more hung up on the presentation. Existing RED camera owners can look forward to an incredibly impressive 15+ stops of native dynamic range and up to 120 frames-per-second at resolutions up to 5K. And as we discovered earlier today, the upgrade will roll out to EPIC owners sometime in 2012 for $6,000 while Scarlet users will need to hang tight for a release date, and a price tag. That's all we've got as far as details go, so click on through the gallery below for a flashlight-enhanced peek at the Dragon.

Gallery: RED Dragon 6K sensor upgrade hands-on

Continue reading RED Dragon 6K sensor upgrade eyes-on (video)

RED Dragon 6K sensor upgrade eyes-on (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 16 Apr 2012 14:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4k5k6kcameracamerasdragonepichands-onHDHD videohdpostcrossHdVideoimage sensorimage sensorsImageSensorImageSensorsnabnab 2012Nab2012redred camerared dragonred epicred scarletRedCameraRedDragonRedEpicRedScarletscarletsensorsensorsupgradeupgradesvideovideosMon, 16 Apr 2012 14:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Philips' new ErgoSensor desktop display demands that you sit up straight]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/08/philips-new-ergosensor-desktop-display-demands-that-you-sit-up/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/08/philips-new-ergosensor-desktop-display-demands-that-you-sit-up/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/08/philips-new-ergosensor-desktop-display-demands-that-you-sit-up/#comments Philips' new ErgoSensor desktop display demands that you sit up straightRemember those halcyon days when your mother would chide you to sit up straight should you ever start to slouch? Good news, desk jockeys, because Philips' ErgoSensor desktop monitor is here to stop your stooping now that mom's no longer around -- and it doesn't require you to wear some silly plastic pendant or occupy any of your USB real estate. The 24-inch, 250-nit, 1920 x 1080 display has a sensor in its bezel that watches you while you work, and warns you when your posture becomes poor or if you've been staring at the screen too long. It also informs users how to set up the monitor for optimal viewing distance and ergonomic position. Plus, it can tell when you're not around and shut the screen off to conserve power. We don't know how much money the monitor will cost or even when it'll be available to fix your poor sitting form, but we do know you can learn everything else about it at the source below.

Philips' new ErgoSensor desktop display demands that you sit up straight originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 08 Apr 2012 23:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1920 x 10801920X1080desktopdesktop monitorDesktopMonitordisplayergosensorhealthmonitorphilipsphilips ergo sensorPhilipsErgoSensorposturescreenseatingsensorsensorsSun, 08 Apr 2012 23:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on with Smart Monitor's SmartWatch, the seizure sensing wristwatch]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/04/hands-on-with-smart-monitors-smartwatch-the-seizure-sensing-wr/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/04/hands-on-with-smart-monitors-smartwatch-the-seizure-sensing-wr/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/04/hands-on-with-smart-monitors-smartwatch-the-seizure-sensing-wr/#comments Hands-on with Smart Monitor's SmartWatch, the seizure sensing wristwatchMillions of people suffer from epileptic seizures, and the threat of such episodes is a constant concern for those with the condition, their families and caretakers. Smart Monitor knows that the freedom of folks with epilepsy is curtailed by trepidation caused by the unpredictability of seizures, so it's created the SmartWatch. The device is a wristwatch, roughly the size of a WIMM One, that has a GPS module and a proprietary accelerometer/gyroscopic sensor inside to detect the excessive and repeated motions that occur during grand mal seizures. It then records the time, duration and location of the occurrences and sends that information via Bluetooth to the accompanying app on your Android smartphone (an iOS version is in the works). The app tracks and stores the info and automatically calls your designated caretakers to alert them of the seizure, thusly ensuring the safety of the watch wearer. The watch also has physical buttons on the side that allow users to cancel a false alert or manually send one out with a single press.

Gallery: Smart Monitor SmartWatch hands-on


Aside from the real-time safety net that comes with wearing the watch, it also provides valuable information to neurologists over the long term. When and where seizures take place is data that those who study and treat epilepsy find useful, and it can be quite difficult for folks to recall such info after a seizure. SmartWatch can give doctors an accurate long term look at a patient's episodic history that they wouldn't be able to obtain otherwise. Because it's a motion detection unit, the device is only for those who suffer from tonic clonic, or grand mal seizures, so it's not a universal seizure detector. However, the company's clinical trials with the device are ongoing, and Smart Monitor will submit it for FDA approval as a tonic clonic seizure sensor later this year.

Hands-on with Smart Monitor's SmartWatch, the seizure sensing wristwatch originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 04 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidappappsepilepsyepileptic seizureEpilepticSeizurehands-onhealthmotion detectionmotion detectorMotionDetectionMotionDetectorseizureseizuressensorsmart monitor smartwatchSmartMonitorSmartwatchsmartwatchwatchwristwatchWed, 04 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RIM's latest patent details automatic volume adjustments based on handset placement]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/27/rim-patent-adjusting-volume-ear-distance-design/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/27/rim-patent-adjusting-volume-ear-distance-design/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/27/rim-patent-adjusting-volume-ear-distance-design/#commentsImageThat moment when you physically hurt your ear by mashing your cellphone up against it in a futile bid to hear the person on the other end. That's the very moment that RIM's gunning to make history with its latest patent, which was filed way back in November of 2007 but just granted today. The BlackBerry-maker's patent describes an adjustable acoustic speaker output "based on an estimated degree of seal of an ear about a speaker port" -- effectively a system where the volume can automatically increase if a handset jostles further from your ear. Not surprisingly, the description details "at least one touch sensor" used for detecting the distance between one's ear and the device, and the connecting method of adjusting the audio depending on what information the sensor picks up. We're guessing folks who walk and talk would be keen on taking advantage, but then again, you could just walk around with a Bluetooth headset on. (Keyword being could, not should.)

RIM's latest patent details automatic volume adjustments based on handset placement originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 27 Mar 2012 11:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audioblackberrymobilepostcrosspatentproximityresearch in motionResearchInMotionrimsensorsensorsspeakerspeaker outputSpeakerOutputtouch sensorTouchSensorTue, 27 Mar 2012 11:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Fitbit for Android helps track your I/O]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/20/fitbit-for-android-helps-track-your-i-o/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/20/fitbit-for-android-helps-track-your-i-o/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/20/fitbit-for-android-helps-track-your-i-o/#comments Fitbit for Android helps track your I/OThe fitness fanatics from Fitbit are looking to aid and abet the Android-loving, calorie-counting masses. The company has announced the release of its self-titled Android application, which will assist users in tracking their health and dietary goals. Through manual entry, or with the assistance of a wireless sensor, Fitbit tracks your daily activity and creates a dynamic nutrition plan to help you achieve your weight loss and fitness goals. What's more, the app and service keep a log of your progress allowing users to feel shame track their progress. The app is available via Google Play for the always attractive price of $0. Have yourself a download... and a quick jog.

Fitbit for Android helps track your I/O originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 20 Mar 2012 03:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AndroidAndroid MarketAndroidMarketappappsBluetoothCaloriesFitbitFitbit UltraFitbitUltraFitnessGoogle PlayGooglePlayhealthMarketminipostPlaysensorsoftwareTrackingweight lossWeightLossTue, 20 Mar 2012 03:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Switched On: Extra Sensory Perception]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/18/extra-sensory-perception/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/18/extra-sensory-perception/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/18/extra-sensory-perception/#commentsEach week Ross Rubin contributes Switched On, a column about consumer technology.

At Intel's CES 2012 press conference, the giant chipmaker justified calling thin notebook PCs "ultrabooks" by noting how the devices would increasingly be characterized by more than their thinness.

The integration of sensors has become so core to the modern smartphone experience that their absence would make using such devices untenable.

Most of that differentiation was based on plans to integrate the kinds of sensors that have become commonplace in smartphones and tablets, sensors that can detect location, motion, orientation and proximity. The integration of sensors has become so core to the modern smartphone experience that their absence would make using such devices untenable. Imagine if we had to manually reorient a display every time we wanted to play a game or take a photo or if we had to avoid activating a button with our cheeks when holding a phone against them.

But as Switched On discussed in taking on how screen size affects form factors, what is a limitation of form factor today may not hold true tomorrow. Already, of course, smartphones can tap into remote intelligence for applications such as remote camera viewing or unlocking of doors via services from home security companies such as ADT and Vivint. From around the world, you can even remotely start a vehicle using the Viper SmartStart app. But there are increasing opportunities for smartphones to act on information from sensors that are not embedded into their shells.

Continue reading Switched On: Extra Sensory Perception

Switched On: Extra Sensory Perception originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 18 Mar 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accelerometerADTappconnectivitygyroscopeinfraredintegrationintelkickstarterlocationmotionnodesensorsmartphoneSmartStartswitched onswitchedontabletTWINEultrabooksVivintSun, 18 Mar 2012 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[IRL: Rayovac Mobile Power Pack, a TomTom car charger and cleaning a DSLR sensor]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/17/rayovac-mobile-power-pack-tomtom-multi-charger/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/17/rayovac-mobile-power-pack-tomtom-multi-charger/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/17/rayovac-mobile-power-pack-tomtom-multi-charger/#commentsWelcome to IRL, an ongoing feature where we talk about the gadgets, apps and toys we're using in real life and take a second look at products that already got the formal review treatment.

This week's edition of IRL is geekier than usual because really, only the nerdiest of you would be reading a tech site when you could be pretending to be Irish. On tap (har!) we have James and Andy talking about their favorite ways to charge gadgets on the go, while Darren, a man after serious photographers' hearts, tells what happened when he took his beloved D3S in to have the sensor cleaned.

Continue reading IRL: Rayovac Mobile Power Pack, a TomTom car charger and cleaning a DSLR sensor

IRL: Rayovac Mobile Power Pack, a TomTom car charger and cleaning a DSLR sensor originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 17 Mar 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Andy BowenAndyBowenchargerchargersDarren MurphDarrenMurphIRLJames TrewJamesTrewnikon d3sNikonD3sRayovacRayovac Mobile Power PackRayovacMobilePowerPacksensorsensor cleaningSensorCleaningsensorsTomTomTomTom High-Speed Multi ChargerTomtomHigh-speedMultiChargerSat, 17 Mar 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[SoftKinetic brings DepthSense range sensor to GDC, hopes to put it in your next TV]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/08/softkinetic-brings-depthsense-range-sensor-to-gdc-hopes-to-put/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/08/softkinetic-brings-depthsense-range-sensor-to-gdc-hopes-to-put/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/08/softkinetic-brings-depthsense-range-sensor-to-gdc-hopes-to-put/#comments SoftKinetic DepthSense

Microsoft's Kinect may have put depth sensors in the eye of the common consumer, but they aren't the only outfit in the game -- Belgian startup SoftKinetic has their own twist on the distance sensing setup. The literally named "DepthSense" range sensor uses infrared time-of-flight technology, which according to representatives, allows it to not only accurately calculate depth-sensitivity in dark, cramped spaces, but more importantly offers a shallower operating distance than its competition. We dropped by SoftKinetic's GDC booth to see exactly how cramped we could get.

It turns out the sensor can accurately read individual fingers between four to fourteen feet (1.5 - 4.5 meters), we had no trouble using it to pinch our way through a few levels of a mouse-emulated session of Angry Birds. The developer hardware we saw on the show floor was admittedly on the bulky side, but if all goes to plan, SoftKinetic says we'll see OEMs stuff the tech into laptops and ARM-powered TVs in the near future. In the meantime, though, gesture-crazy consumers can look forward to a slimmer version of this rig in stores sometime this holiday season. Hit the break for a quick demo of the friendly sensor in action.

Gallery: SoftKinetic DepthSense hands-on



Dante Cesa contributed to this post.

Continue reading SoftKinetic brings DepthSense range sensor to GDC, hopes to put it in your next TV

SoftKinetic brings DepthSense range sensor to GDC, hopes to put it in your next TV originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 08 Mar 2012 05:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Belgiumdepthdepth sensorDepthSenseDepthSensorgdcgdc 2012gdc2012KinectMicrosoftmotionmotion sensorMotionSensorrange sensorRangeSensorsensorsmart TVsSmartTvsSoftKinetictime-of-flightThu, 08 Mar 2012 05:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Here's the first sample shot from the new iPad's 5MP iSight camera]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/07/heres-the-first-sample-shot-from-the-new-ipads-5mp-camera/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/07/heres-the-first-sample-shot-from-the-new-ipads-5mp-camera/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/07/heres-the-first-sample-shot-from-the-new-ipads-5mp-camera/#comments See that? That's the first shot we've been able to secure using the new iPad and its "iPhone 4S-esque" sensor. For those unaware, it's rocking a five megapixel sensor and plenty of niceties grabbed from the 4S, and the shot here is entirely unedited in any way. To be honest, it's pretty impressive given the exceptionally challenging lighting situation that we were facing in this here room, with a well-lit backdrop and a poorly lit foreground. Looking for the full resolution version to pore over? Hit up the source link, and forgive us if it loads upside-down.

P.S. - It's 1.3MB.

For more coverage of Apple's iPad event, visit our hub!

Here's the first sample shot from the new iPad's 5MP iSight camera originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 15:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleapple new ipadAppleNewIpadcameraiosipadipad 3ipad hdIpad3IpadHdisightnew ipadNewIpadsensorslatetabletWed, 07 Mar 2012 15:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Samsung's latest 8MP cameraphone sensor has backside illumination, zero shutter lag (Update: specs)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/27/samsung-8mp-backside-illuminated-zsl/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/27/samsung-8mp-backside-illuminated-zsl/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/27/samsung-8mp-backside-illuminated-zsl/#comments Samsung hasn't shown off all of its new tech at MWC 2012 yet, but one more early announcement is a new "premium" cameraphone sensor, the 8MP S5K3H7. Its new 1.4um CMOS shown above features backside illumination (BSI) technology for better quality in low light -- just like the iPhone 4/4S camera and HTC's just-announced ImageChip -- as well as the promise of zero shutter lag and 30fps 1080p video all while using less power than previous generations. There's no word yet on which phones will include the new imaging chip, but it should go into mass production in the next couple of months.

Update: Looking for more numbers? The English PR is out now and confirms a slim form factor 8.5mm x 8.5mm camera module with 5.5mm height dimension capable of 120fps 720p or 240fps slow motion video recording. Check the data yourself in the press release after the break.

Continue reading Samsung's latest 8MP cameraphone sensor has backside illumination, zero shutter lag (Update: specs)

Samsung's latest 8MP cameraphone sensor has backside illumination, zero shutter lag (Update: specs) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 27 Feb 2012 01:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1080p30fps8mpbackside illuminationbackside-illuminatedBacksideIlluminationbsicameracellphone cameraCellphoneCameramobile world congress 2012mobilepostcrossMobileWorldCongress2012mwcmwc 2012Mwc2012s5k3h7samsungsensorsmartphonezero shutter lagZeroShutterLagMon, 27 Feb 2012 01:22:00 EST<![CDATA[NHK's new Super Hi-Vision sensor captures 8K at 120fps, fast enough for Usain Bolt?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/25/nhk-super-hi-vision-120fps-cmos/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/25/nhk-super-hi-vision-120fps-cmos/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/25/nhk-super-hi-vision-120fps-cmos/#comments As amazing as Super Hi-Vision televisions are, most of the footage we've seen is of slow-moving cityscapes, nature and portraits. We may get more action sequences soon, thanks to a new CMOS sensor capable of picking up 8K (33MP) footage at 120 frames per second. The joint project between NHK, Shizuoka University and the Research Institute of Electronics is being shown off on the 27th at the International Solid-State Circuits Conference The chip is developed on a .18 micrometer process, with an enhanced analog to digital converter that enables the faster frame rates. That cut down data processing time and power consumption, all key to getting some sweet super high res televisions (16x more pixels than your current HDTV) in our living room sooner rather than later. Our only question? If they can build a new camera around it in time to catch the world's fastest human being do his thing at the 2012 London Olympics.

NHK's new Super Hi-Vision sensor captures 8K at 120fps, fast enough for Usain Bolt? originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 25 Feb 2012 16:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>120120 fps120Fps33 megapixel33Megapixel8kcmosfastfast motionFastMotionhdpostminijapannhksensorshvsuper hi-visionSuperHi-visionSat, 25 Feb 2012 16:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Cirque's proximity and grip sensor knows your left from your right, won't let you turn up your car stereo]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/24/cirques-proximity-and-grip-sensor-knows-your-left-from-your-rig/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/24/cirques-proximity-and-grip-sensor-knows-your-left-from-your-rig/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/24/cirques-proximity-and-grip-sensor-knows-your-left-from-your-rig/#comments
Today's driving laws are awash with restrictions designed to help cut down on distracted driving -- no texting, no TV, no phone calls and no fun. The good 'ol car stereo has managed to stay off the ban list, but rest easy, cautious driver, if it were to be outlawed, the folks at Cirque could build one that wouldn't respond to the driver's commands. The outfit's latest sensor tech can distinguish the user's right hand from their left, making it possible for future vehicle controls to ignore input from the driver. Cirque says the "proximity sensing with grip detection" technology will allow devices to react contextually to how they are used, creating more customized interactions for future automobiles, medical terminals and other consoles. Fine by us, as long as they don't ban our beats. Peep the video up top for a quick demo, or read on for the outfit's official press release.

Continue reading Cirque's proximity and grip sensor knows your left from your right, won't let you turn up your car stereo

Cirque's proximity and grip sensor knows your left from your right, won't let you turn up your car stereo originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 24 Feb 2012 07:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Cirquegrip detectionGripDetectionproximity sensingproximity sensing with grip detectionProximitySensingProximitySensingWithGripDetectionsensorsensor technologySensorTechnologyvideoFri, 24 Feb 2012 07:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Insert Coin: Node helps your smartphone monitor pretty much everything]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/23/insert-coin-node-helps-your-smartphone-monitor-pretty-much-ever/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/23/insert-coin-node-helps-your-smartphone-monitor-pretty-much-ever/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/23/insert-coin-node-helps-your-smartphone-monitor-pretty-much-ever/#comments
In Insert Coin, we look at an exciting new tech project that requires funding before it can hit production. If you'd like to pitch a project, please send us a tip with "Insert Coin" as the subject line.
Fallen out of love with sensor? Don't worry, Variable Technologies is here to help. The company's working to bring the world Node, a project aimed at helping smartphone users "explore the fun and power of sensors." The "Swiss Army knife-sized" modular device communicates with the iPhone 4S and Android devices via Bluetooth. It has a built-in accelerometer, magnetometer and gyroscope and can detect physical motion and space, temperature and elevation, to name but a few. It also has a game control module and eight LEDs that can double as a camera flash, with carbon monoxide and radiation detection on the way. The Node will be compatible with Arduino devices and will have an open API, firmware and source code. There's a month left to help Variable hit its lofty $50,000 goal. Click the source link for more info.

Continue reading Insert Coin: Node helps your smartphone monitor pretty much everything

Insert Coin: Node helps your smartphone monitor pretty much everything originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 23 Feb 2012 16:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidapple iphone 4sAppleIphone4sarduinobluetoothinsert coinInsertCoiniphonekickstartermodularnodesensorvariable technologiesVariableTechnologiesvideoThu, 23 Feb 2012 16:49:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft reportedly working on Kinect-enabled laptops]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/27/microsoft-reportedly-working-on-kinect-enabled-laptops/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/27/microsoft-reportedly-working-on-kinect-enabled-laptops/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/27/microsoft-reportedly-working-on-kinect-enabled-laptops/#comments It remains to be seen when or if they'll turn into actual products, but The Daily reports that Microsoft is at least working on getting its Kinect technology shoved into laptops. While details are light, the iPad-based publication says that it's seen a pair of prototypes that "appear to be Asus netbooks running Windows 8," but which have had their webcams replaced with an array of sensors that run along the top of the screen (a set of LEDs are said to be at the bottom). The Daily also says that it's confirmed with a source at Microsoft that the devices are indeed official prototypes of a Kinect-enabled laptop, and it unsurprisingly suggests that Microsoft would likely license the technology to laptop manufacturers rather than build its own hardware.

Microsoft reportedly working on Kinect-enabled laptops originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 27 Jan 2012 12:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kinectlaptopmicrosoftmotion controlmotion detectingmotion sensingMotionControlMotionDetectingMotionSensingnetbooknotebookprototypesensorFri, 27 Jan 2012 12:48:00 EST<![CDATA[Windows 8 adds sensor support, will be the PC to turn, turn, turn]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/25/windows-8-adds-sensor-support/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/25/windows-8-adds-sensor-support/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/25/windows-8-adds-sensor-support/#comments Windows 8Microsoft is slowly turning its stalwart desktop OS into a mobile powerhouse. The company just keeps rolling out improvements and features for Windows 8 aimed at really making upcoming tablets competitive with their Android and iOS-based market mates. After cramming mobile broadband tools into the tile-happy OS, now Redmond is turning its attention towards sensors. The next version of Windows will offer integrated support for gyroscopes, accelerometers, magnetometers and ambient light sensors among other things. Devs will even be able to use multiple sensors in conjunction for more accurate interaction. Check out the video after the break for more details.

Continue reading Windows 8 adds sensor support, will be the PC to turn, turn, turn

Windows 8 adds sensor support, will be the PC to turn, turn, turn originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 25 Jan 2012 12:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accelerometerambient lightAmbientLightgyroscopemicrosoftmicrosoft windows 8MicrosoftWindows8minipostsensorsensorsvideowin 8Win8windowswindows 8Windows8Wed, 25 Jan 2012 12:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Lytro open to partnering with smartphone makers, executive suggests]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/25/lytro-camera-smartphone-licensing-partnership/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/25/lytro-camera-smartphone-licensing-partnership/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/25/lytro-camera-smartphone-licensing-partnership/#comments Now that its famed light field camera has finally become official, Lytro is looking to the future, with an eye, apparently, toward the cellphone market. During a recent interview with PC World, Lytro executive chairman Charles Chi described his company's new sensor in greater detail, and talked at length about its purportedly superior battery life. He also divulged a few hints about Lytro's roadmap. When asked whether the firm would ever license its technology to a smartphone manufacturer, Chi confirmed that Lytro has "the capital to do that, the capability in the company to do that, and... the vision to execute," before launching into an explanation of what it would take for such an initiative to succeed:

If we were to apply the technology in smartphones, that ecosystem is, of course, very complex, with some very large players there. It's an industry that's very different and driven based on operational excellence. For us to compete in there, we'd have to be a very different kind of company. So if we were to enter that space, it would definitely be through a partnership and a codevelopment of the technology, and ultimately some kind of licensing with the appropriate partner.

Far from a confirmation, to be sure, but it seems like the handset market is at least on Lytro's radar. Read the full Q&A at the link below.

Lytro open to partnering with smartphone makers, executive suggests originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 25 Jan 2012 10:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesscameracellphoneCEOcharles chiCharlesChiindustryinterviewlicensinglight field cameraLightFieldCameralytrolytro light field cameraLytroLightFieldCameramanufacturingmobilepostcrosspartnershipsensorsmartphoneWed, 25 Jan 2012 10:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Photorito disguises your supersized lens as the world's most delicious thing]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/17/photorito-disguises-your-supersized-lens-as-the-worlds-most-del/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/17/photorito-disguises-your-supersized-lens-as-the-worlds-most-del/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/17/photorito-disguises-your-supersized-lens-as-the-worlds-most-del/#comments After the recent rash of burrito robberies that has been plaguing our nation, we're not really sure why anyone would opt to pick up a case that disguised their camera lens as the popular Mexican dish. If you're so inclined, however, you can nab the Photorito, a lens wrap made from Tyvek and neoprene, which promises to protect lenses from 24mm to 200mm from water, dust and bumps. The Photorito ships with a band that will keep it in place -- it'll run you $15 if ordered directly from Photojojo, just don't come crawling to us when you get some guac in your sensor.

Update: Photojojo has written to inform us that the price of the Photorito has been bumped up to $20 -- but really, can you put a price of making your camera lens look like Mexican food?

Photorito disguises your supersized lens as the world's most delicious thing originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 17 Jan 2012 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>burritocameracamera lensCameraLenscamerascaselenslens caseLensCasephotojojophotoritosensorTue, 17 Jan 2012 09:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Intel inks licensing agreement with Plessey Semiconductors, gets into the sensor game]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/10/intel-inks-licensing-agreement-with-plessey-semiconductors-gets/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/10/intel-inks-licensing-agreement-with-plessey-semiconductors-gets/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/10/intel-inks-licensing-agreement-with-plessey-semiconductors-gets/#comments
Intel signed a licensing agreement with Plessey Semiconductors today, giving it access to the UK chipmaker's array of sensors. Founded in 1957, Plessey produces cell phone radios, motion sensors and a host of other chips. The company also licensed its wireless LAN chipset to Apple back in 1994 and, in 1992, became the first licensee of ARM's architecture. Under the deal, Intel will receive the option to buy a financial security in Plessey at a later date, while Plessey, in turn, will be able to support a limited number of Intel's digital tuner products. It remains to be seen what Intel has in store with its new sensor licenses, but we're certainly looking forward to it.

Continue reading Intel inks licensing agreement with Plessey Semiconductors, gets into the sensor game

Intel inks licensing agreement with Plessey Semiconductors, gets into the sensor game originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 10 Jan 2012 13:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ARMbusinesscesces 2012Ces2012chipchipmakercpudealintellicensing agreementLicensingAgreementmoneypartnershipPlessey SemiconductorsPlesseySemiconductorssensorTue, 10 Jan 2012 13:35:00 EST<![CDATA[IBM says mind control next big thing in human-computer interaction; GLaDOS offers cake reward]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/20/ibm-says-mind-control-next-big-thing-in-human-computer-interacti/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/20/ibm-says-mind-control-next-big-thing-in-human-computer-interacti/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/20/ibm-says-mind-control-next-big-thing-in-human-computer-interacti/#commentsFrom the ongoing Google-Apple turf war on voice recognition to Microsoft's gesture tracking with Kinect, humans continue to push the envelope on how to interact with computers and devices. Now IBM says mind control will be the next field to see a big leap, predicting breakthroughs within the next five years. Keep in mind that they're not talking about controlling humans a la Gorilla Grodd ... yet. Instead, they're talking about controlling computer actions and devices via brain waves. IBM software guru and potential Borg recruit Kevin Brown (pictured right) has already been using a headset to move cubes on a computer screen at will. Given the ongoing progress with mind-controlled cars and BrainGate, IBM's prediction might not be too far-fetched.

IBM says mind control next big thing in human-computer interaction; GLaDOS offers cake reward originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 20 Dec 2011 07:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brainbrain controlbrain controlled movementBrainControlBrainControlledMovementmindmind controlMindControlneuralresearchsensorsensorstelekinesisthoughtthought controlThoughtControlTue, 20 Dec 2011 07:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Engadget Primed: Why your camera's sensor size matters]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/16/engadget-primed-why-your-cameras-sensor-size-matters/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/16/engadget-primed-why-your-cameras-sensor-size-matters/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/16/engadget-primed-why-your-cameras-sensor-size-matters/#commentsPrimed goes in-depth on the technobabble you hear on Engadget every day -- we dig deep into each topic's history and how it benefits our lives. You can follow the series here. Looking to suggest a piece of technology for us to break down? Drop us a line at primed *at* engadget *dawt* com.

The first thing I look for when purchasing a camera is something most aren't even aware of. It's not the brand name or the quality of the lens, the touch screen technology or the LCD screen size, and not the array of functions it offers or shooting presets available - it's the size of the image sensor. As a 20-year pro photographer who's captured over a million images during my career, I'm the guy who admires the parts of the engine instead of falling in love with the flashy exterior or high-end sound system. The image sensor is where the rubber meets the photosensitive diodes.

In writing my first installment for Primed, I'll give a few definitions to clear things up a bit when it comes to a camera's image sensors and size, explain in detail the parts of a sensor, how it alters the photos (or video) you capture, where it came from, and why it's important to consider its size - I'll cover the meat and bones, get to the heart of the matter, the nub, the crux, the nuts and bolts, get down to the brass tacks, all while exhausting our thesaurus. Let's dive in, shall we?

Continue reading Engadget Primed: Why your camera's sensor size matters

Engadget Primed: Why your camera's sensor size matters originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 16 Dec 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameracameraphoneCCDCMOSDSLRengadget primedEngadgetPrimedimage sensorImageSensorISOmedium formatMediumFormatMFTmicro four thirdsMicroFourThirdsNikonphotophotographyphotosPhotoshoppoint and shootPointAndShootprimedsensorsensor sizeSensorSizeSLR cameraSlrCameraTexas InstrumentsTexasInstrumentstutorialFri, 16 Dec 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Agile Route's Shopper Tracker brings Kinect hacks, Google Analytics to the grocery aisle (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/07/agile-routes-shopper-tracker-brings-kinect-hacks-google-analyt/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/07/agile-routes-shopper-tracker-brings-kinect-hacks-google-analyt/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/07/agile-routes-shopper-tracker-brings-kinect-hacks-google-analyt/#comments
The Shopper Tracker is one of those devices that does exactly what its name suggests -- and so much more. Developed by Argentina's Agile Route, this Kinect hack uses an array of heat sensors and 3D spatial recognition software to track a consumer's movements and behavior within any brick and mortar retail outlet. These data can then be used by a store owner to find out which shelves and items are appealing to customers, effectively adding a Google Analytics-like dimension to their product displays. The system is also capable of tracking multiple people at once, and can even provide feedback on which products consumers actually pull from the shelves. According to the company, this type of analysis can result in obvious strategic benefits for merchants, while reminding the rest of us that we're totally predictable. Check it out in action, after the break.

Continue reading Agile Route's Shopper Tracker brings Kinect hacks, Google Analytics to the grocery aisle (video)

Agile Route's Shopper Tracker brings Kinect hacks, Google Analytics to the grocery aisle (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 07 Dec 2011 06:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3d spatial recognition3dSpatialRecognitionAgile RouteAgileRouteargentinabrick and mortarBrickAndMortarbusinessconsumerconsumer behaviorConsumerBehaviordatagoogle analyticsGoogleAnalyticsheat mapheat sensorHeatMapHeatSensorkinectkinect hackKinectHackmerchantmicrosoft kinectMicrosoftKinectmoneyproductsensorShopper TrackerShopperTrackershoppingSKUsoftwarestrategytargeted advertisingTargetedAdvertisingtrackingvideoWed, 07 Dec 2011 06:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Insert Coin: Twine connects your whole world to the internet]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/24/insert-coin-twine-connects-your-whole-world-to-the-internet/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/24/insert-coin-twine-connects-your-whole-world-to-the-internet/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/24/insert-coin-twine-connects-your-whole-world-to-the-internet/#commentsIn Insert Coin, we look at an exciting new tech project that requires funding before it can hit production. If you'd like to pitch a project, please send us a tip with "Insert Coin" as the subject line.

Wouldn't it be great if your laundry emailed you when it had finished? You got a tweet every time the room got too cold, or your basement sent you a text if it began to flood? "Easy," says the Arduino expert in the peanut gallery, but what about those with neither the time nor inclination to solder and program it from scratch? Fortunately, the gentlemen who founded Supermechanical feel our pain and have just the tonic for our maladies -- head on past the break to find out more.

Continue reading Insert Coin: Twine connects your whole world to the internet

Insert Coin: Twine connects your whole world to the internet originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 24 Nov 2011 12:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AccelerometerArduinoCrowdsourcingDIYFundingHackHackingHTTPInsert CoinInsertCoinKickstarterProgrammingSensorSupermechanicalThermometerTwineTwitterWiFi SensorWifiSensorThu, 24 Nov 2011 12:18:00 EST<![CDATA[DARPA to develop biometric sensor capable of seeing through walls, pulling your heartstrings]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/21/darpa-to-develop-biometric-sensor-capable-of-seeing-through-wall/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/21/darpa-to-develop-biometric-sensor-capable-of-seeing-through-wall/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/21/darpa-to-develop-biometric-sensor-capable-of-seeing-through-wall/#comments The feds may soon know the way to your heart. Literally. Earlier this month, the forward-thinkers over at DARPA announced plans to develop new technologies capable of identifying human life through walls. The program, known as "Biometrics-at-a-distance," would essentially combine two pre-existing Pentagon projects: the Radar Scope, a device that can see through walls, and 2009's LifeReader, a system that uses Doppler radar to detect heartbeats. Though the military already employs a handful of devices to help soldiers see humans from behind walls, DARPA apparently thinks there's room for improvement. Most contemporary technologies, for example, only work from a maximum distance of eight meters, and aren't as accurate within more densely populated areas. DARPA wants its next project to extend this range beyond ten meters, while sharpening its ability to penetrate thicker obstructions. The agency also wants its sensor to identify individual humans using electrocardiography, which traces the heart's electrical activity. According to DARPA, this could allow users to pinpoint up to ten people at the same time, which could pay dividends during disaster rescue efforts, military operations, or your next Eyes Wide Shut party.

DARPA to develop biometric sensor capable of seeing through walls, pulling your heartstrings originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 21 Nov 2011 17:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armybiometricbiometric IDBiometricIdbiometrics at a distanceBiometricsAtADistanceconceptDARPAelectrocardiographyfederalfedsgovernmentheartheartbeathumanlifereadermilitarypentagonprojectradarradar scopeRadarScopescansensortechnologywallswarwargadgetMon, 21 Nov 2011 17:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft outlines Code Space, looks to include Kinect in conference rooms, PTA meetings (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/14/microsoft-outlines-code-space-looks-to-include-kinect-in-confer/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/14/microsoft-outlines-code-space-looks-to-include-kinect-in-confer/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/14/microsoft-outlines-code-space-looks-to-include-kinect-in-confer/#comments If there's one thing that's certain about the Kinect, it's this; Microsoft wants it to be versatile. Case in point, Code Space -- the next extracurricular activity for the gaming controller which sees it teaming up with smartphones and laptops to present information on a shared screen. The project is aimed at presenting and exchanging code in developer meetings using a large display and simple hand gestures, though we could easily see this being adopted in both the classroom and the boardroom as well. In other news, the Kinect will be able to paint your house this spring, even if you may not be crazy about the final color...

Update: We realize it's a bit slow at times, but if you'd like to see Code Space in action, just hop the break. You'll discover the magic. [Thanks, Andrew]

Gallery: Code Space Gallery

Continue reading Microsoft outlines Code Space, looks to include Kinect in conference rooms, PTA meetings (video)

Microsoft outlines Code Space, looks to include Kinect in conference rooms, PTA meetings (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 14 Nov 2011 21:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameraCode SpaceCodeSpacecontentgallerygestureKinectlaptopsMicrosoftmobileResearchscreensensorsharedsmartphonesMon, 14 Nov 2011 21:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Honda's ASIMO robot sheds a few pounds, gets all autonomous on us (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/08/hondas-asimo-robot-sheds-a-few-pounds-gets-all-autonomous-on-u/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/08/hondas-asimo-robot-sheds-a-few-pounds-gets-all-autonomous-on-u/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/08/hondas-asimo-robot-sheds-a-few-pounds-gets-all-autonomous-on-u/#comments
We've already seen it dance, sing and read minds, but Honda's ASIMO humanoid has now taken that one great leap into decidedly more dystopian territory. The revamped bot, pictured above (and apparently doing its best Herman Cain impression), was unveiled today in Japan, sporting a streamlined physique and scarily adept mind. In fact, Honda claims that its bot is now less "automated" than it is "autonomous" -- all thanks to new behavior control technology that allows it to move and make decisions on its own, independent of human operators. Its external recognition capability and set of onboard visual and auditory sensors enable it to rapidly process information about its environment, which the ASIMO then uses to plot its next move. Combining long- and short-term sensor data, the droid can predict human movements and automatically recognize voices or gestures. Because of this, Honda says, the ASIMO could be more easily integrated within social environments, and peacefully coexist with its human prey counterparts.

Physically, meanwhile, the robot's looking svelter than ever, having shed a full six kilograms. It can now run at a maximum speed of 9 kilometers per hour, jump up and down for as long as it wants, and even hop on one leg, should it ever need to. Plus, its hands are now more dexterous than ever, thanks to new independent finger control functions that allow it to handle the most delicate of tasks -- like pouring you a stiff one after work, or before your inevitable demise. Check out more images in the gallery below, or hop past the break for a video and accompanying press release.

Gallery: Honda Robotics ASIMO robot

Continue reading Honda's ASIMO robot sheds a few pounds, gets all autonomous on us (video)

Honda's ASIMO robot sheds a few pounds, gets all autonomous on us (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 08 Nov 2011 02:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ASIMOautonomousbotcoexistenceengadget awardsengadget awards 2011EngadgetAwardsEngadgetAwards2011finger controlFingerControlhandhondahonda roboticsHondaRoboticshumanoidRobopocalypseRobotApocalypsesensorvideoTue, 08 Nov 2011 02:39:00 EST<![CDATA[NSK developing Kinect-laced robotic guide dog for the blind (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/07/nsk-developing-kinect-laced-robotic-guide-dog-for-the-blind-vid/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/07/nsk-developing-kinect-laced-robotic-guide-dog-for-the-blind-vid/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/07/nsk-developing-kinect-laced-robotic-guide-dog-for-the-blind-vid/#comments Have you ever looked at a robotic dog, scratched your head and thought, "Why?" Well, NSK has just responded with a pretty valid "Because." Turns out, the Japanese manufacturer is working on a new mechanized canine that could one day serve as a guide dog for the blind. The company's latest prototype builds on the work of the University of Electro-Communications (UEC), which unveiled its first model, the NR001, in 2005, followed by an updated version (NR002) in 2007. With this third iteration, unveiled late last month, NSK and UEC have added a Microsoft Kinect sensor, which allows it to more easily identify and navigate obstacles or stairs. The quadrupedal beast can also scamper up and down steps with more grace than its predecessors, which moved more like arthropods than actual dogs. The bot's paws have also been equipped with obstacle-avoiding bumper sensors, and researchers are working on incorporating voice commands, as well. NSK says its guide dog could eventually feature GPS capabilities to provide more accurate directions for the blind and visually impaired, though it'll probably be a while before it hits the pavement; the company hopes to commercialize the dogbot by 2020. Trot past the break to see the pup in action, in a pair of demo videos.

Continue reading NSK developing Kinect-laced robotic guide dog for the blind (video)

NSK developing Kinect-laced robotic guide dog for the blind (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 07 Nov 2011 12:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blindbotcanineGPSguide dogGuideDogjapankinectmicrosoft kinectMicrosoftKinectnskprototyperobot dogRobotDogrobotic dogRoboticDogsensorUECUniversity of Electro-CommunicationsUniversityOfElectro-communicationsvideovisually impairedVisuallyImpairedMon, 07 Nov 2011 12:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Telesar V robot brings new meaning to escapism (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/07/telesar-v-robot-brings-new-meaning-to-escapism-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/07/telesar-v-robot-brings-new-meaning-to-escapism-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/07/telesar-v-robot-brings-new-meaning-to-escapism-video/#comments The esoteric art of telepresence is all about that sweetest of dreams: being somewhere you'd rather be. So far, though, it's hardly teleported much beyond our head movements and kisses. What we really need is a fully-fledged avatar that can also feed sensory information back to us -- and that's exactly what the Telesar V claims to be. The user dons a pair of VR goggles that control the robot's head and see through its eyes. A pair of gloves not only control the Telesar's hands, but also transmit force and temperature data back from its sensors. Drag yourself away from that violent BF3 simulator and check out the smoochiness after the break. (And yes, the inventor's surname is just about perfect.)

Continue reading Telesar V robot brings new meaning to escapism (video)

Telesar V robot brings new meaning to escapism (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 07 Nov 2011 08:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avatargogglesjapanjapaneseKeio UniversityKeioUniversityProfessor TachiProfessorTachisensationsensorsensorssensoryTachitelepresencetelesarTelesar VTelesarVtelexistencevirtual realityVirtualRealityVRVR glovesVR gogglesVrGlovesVrGogglesMon, 07 Nov 2011 08:13:00 EST