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Logitech G teases Blue gaming headphones on the way
Late last year Logitech acquired Blue Microphones, and a tweet indicates their next combo project is for gamers. We've already seen the debut of the Blue Ember XLR microphone for streamers, but it seems likely that this Logitech G product will actually be a new set of Blue-designed headphones for the gaming lineup. All we can see is a logo that's probably located on an ear cup -- that bears little resemblance to the older A Logitech G933 gaming headset pictured above -- but what they'll sound like is what matters, and Blue has come through on that front before. Expect them to be unveiled July 9th -- the usual set of streamers and influencers are already touting the unveiling date on their Twitch channels and social media profiles -- when we should find out how these will help you get more kills and/or talk to the folks in the stream chat a little more clearly.
Dell unveils G-Series and Alienware laptops with NVIDIA's latest GPUs
Dell is taking advantage of the launch of new Intel 9th-generation CPUs and NVIDIA's latest GTX 16-series GPUs to refresh some of its gaming laptops. First up, it's introducing new G5 and G7 laptops today with GeForce GTX 1660 Ti and 1650 Max-Q GPUs, and will introduce RTX models with 9th-generation Intel CPUs starting in June. Those should be speedier than the current GTX 1050 Ti and 1060 models, and cheaper than the RTX-powered laptops. Both models will soon be available with four-zone RGB keyboards and 240 Hz 1080p or 4K OLED displays. Dell has yet to say how much any of these mid-range models will cost, but the current G5 15-inch gaming laptop with GTX 1050 Ti graphics starts at $900.
LG's flagship G7 will launch in May
LG's artificial intelligence technology, ThinQ, first made its way to the Korean company's phones as part of the V30S. Now, the brand has confirmed that ThinQ is also coming to LG's flagship G-series, specifically the G7 that's debuting in New York on May 2nd and Seoul on May 3rd. According to the company's announcement, the G7 ThinQ's 'Empathic AI' -- that's how LG describes its artificial intelligence, which it says is capable of human-like thinking to a certain extent -- is better than its predecessor's. We'll have to wait for the device's official launch to know how exactly it's better than the V30's, though.
Sony's SSDs can withstand the torture of capturing 4K
Aspiring 4K filmmakers who want the best quality can buy pro-level RAW video cameras on the cheap, or use a DSLR with an external 4K recorder like the Atomos Ninja 2. However, the SSDs on such devices often record and dump out high bit-rate 4K video multiple times a week, so they need to be much faster and more durable than the one on your laptop. That's where Sony comes in with its latest G Series Professional SSDs, which can write up to 2,400 terabytes without failing and use tech that prevents disastrous frame dropping.
G-Series wearable tracks sports, sleep and sitting
The language on Movea's site can be a bit broad and tough to parse at times when trying to figure out exactly what the company produces. The simple answer is motion tracking, particularly as it pertains to things like sports and physical therapy. It makes sense, then, that the company was eager to jump on the activity-tracking wearable bandwagon, celebrating CES by teaming up with Texas Instruments for the G-Series. The wristband monitors a pretty broad spectrum of activities and, well, non-activities, counting your steps, tracking running/hiking, analyzing sleep activity and even detecting your posture (whether you're, say, sitting or standing). The wearable promises a greater than 95 percent accuracy rate when it comes to activity classification and the lowest error rates when it comes to counting steps. Maybe we'll try it out -- we've got a few more steps to walk around the Las Vegas Convention Center this week.
AMD reveals G-Series X embedded chips, drops a little ARM-powered bombshell
We're no strangers to AMD's embedded processors, designed for specialist applications such as casino gaming and dashboard infotainment systems. But this latest announcement of an updated G-Series processor reveals something totally unexpected. It's not just that the chip contains four Jaguar cores of PlayStation 4 fame, or that it also includes a Radeon 8000 GPU and I/O module on a single piece of silicon -- although that's all interesting enough. The key thing is actually the "X" in the lower right corner of the logo, which signifies that this is an x86 chip of the type we'd normally expect from AMD. The question is this: Why bother even mentioning the "X" when everyone knows AMD is an x86 stalwart already? Read on and we'll explain its true significance.
Logitech G710+ gaming keyboard boasts quiet, glowing, speed-typing
Is that old pro-gaming keyboard you have finally breaking down from years of use, its blue backlight fading to teal (or worse) as the days go on? Are you ready to spend over $100 to get back in the game? Then you, ideal consumer, sound like a good match for Logitech's newest gaming keyboard, the G710+. "Plus what?" you ask? Well, it's a standard G-series performance keyboard from Logitetch, plus a white LED backlight, anti-ghosting tech, under-key dampening to help with all the clickety-clacketing, and a promised 50-million keystroke life span. A set of "G-keys" along the left side allows for assignable macros and scripts, should you need to suddenly maximize your APM mid-StarCraft 2 match (and let's be honest, you've totally been there) -- sadly, the G710+ only works with Windows Vista and up, so you'll have to maximize those actions exclusively on a PC for now. The Logitech G710+ arrives at retail in the US this October for $150, and heads to Europe starting in December at an undetermined price -- check after the break for full specs and a quick demo video.
Future Panasonic G camera's 72Mbps movie-making prowess teased through speedy drama (video)
If Panasonic didn't have attention from movie producers before, it just might as of this week. Joining the quickly developing tradition of camera makers producing elaborate short movies as technology demos, the company has let cinematographer Philip Bloom wield (and tease) a "brand new G camera" to record Genesis, a fast-paced mini-drama showing a man's race to meet his love before it's too late. While Bloom can't talk much about the hardware in question until the 17th, he's allowed to confirm that the upcoming Micro Four Thirds body relies on a "superb" 72Mbps All-I codec for video -- letting it capture a sprint through the streets without the compression artifacts of the AVCHD format used by most mirrorless cameras. Panasonic's upcoming shooter also touts "much improved" results in the dark, Bloom says. It all sounds very tempting, especially if it turns out that Panasonic's inadvertent leaks are for the same camera we see in action here. The full movie is available after the break, and Bloom has the behind-the-scenes details at the source link.
Huawei Ascend G 302D goes public in FCC docs
It's a curious thing to have gold signify the low-end, but that's just what Huawei's done with its G series smartphone line. That bottom-dwelling, budget tier, first announced at this past Mobile World Congress, has already seen a couple of category cousins come out into the open (see: Vodafone's G 300 and T-Mobile's G 312), so color us unsurprised to find yet another single-core, Googlefied device crop up at the FCC. The associated docs leave little to the imagination, treating us to unobstructed images of the Ascend G 302D -- presumably, a 4-incher. We're not quite sure what software the phone'll run when it ships, though from the looks of those very ICS-like capacitive keys, we wouldn't rule Android 4.0 out. Spec-wise, we have the included manual and some RF testing to go off of, revealing two different sized batteries -- a 1,350mAh and 1,500mAh -- support for Bluetooth, WiFi b/g/n and AT&T-compatible radios. That's not to say this lil' guy's guaranteed an official U.S. slot on that carrier's lineup, but it should make for a decent import option. Hit up the source below for additional shots of this mobile minor leaguer.
AMD outs new G-Series APU, extends platform lifetime until 2017
You may not have thought it possible, but today AMD is introducing a new G-Series APU that's even more efficient than previous models in the series. The G-T16R is built for super-low power, small form factor designs like set-top boxes, medical equipment and industrial control units. These new chips continue the trend of including a multi-core x86 CPU and GPU to ensure compatibility between legacy, current and future technologies. The company has also extended the platform's life until 2017, adding a further five years to its expected lifespan -- ensuring that you won't get left in the cold the next time you need to update your system.
AMD's G-Series APUs now come with Integrity, other ethical constructs due later
AMD's G-Series APUs are the type of chips that'll nurse one pint of power at the bar for hours on end, driving set top boxes, medical equipment and tablet-style devices. Now the manufacturer's adding the equally sensible Integrity real-time operating system from Green Hills Software to the platform. The super-stable RTOS has previously been available as part of the Cortex A15 lineup, but these new chips combine a multi-core x86 CPU and GPU that'll be used in industrial control systems where accuracy is paramount. If you're on the hunt for some silicon to drive your production line robots, head on past the break for the deep dish.
MSI outs new GT60 / GT70 gaming laptops, we go hands-on (video)
MSI already popped up on the rumor-radar this week, and now it's confirmed a pair of new gaming laptops at CeBIT. The main difference between the new boys -- that we can see so far, at least -- is the display, with the GT70 sporting 17 inches against the GT60's 15. Both rock an eye-tingling rainbow-effect "SteelSeries" keyboard, as well as some gaming focused hardware. If one hard drive simply isn't enough, then the G-series' support for two SSDs in a RAID 0 configuration, alongside a regular HD, should definitely keep you going -- and support for up to 32 gigs of RAM should help things tick along nicely. We don't have detailed processor specs to share, unfortunately, and the models that MSI had on-hand at the show were simply mock-ups with older components.After walking up to the duo, the first thing we noticed is how large they are -- especially after spending the day with a handful of Ultrabooks and tablets. The GT60 and GT70 aren't giants in the gaming world, but compared to other slim form-factor devices on offer, these are absolute monsters. We suspect this isn't so much of an issue, however, if you are in the market for this type of machine. The large size isn't wasted, either, with the both housing three USB 3.0 ports, two USB 2.0 ports (only one for the GT60), an SDHC card slot, and full audio in, out, microphone and headphone ports for audio connectivity, plus an optical drive in each. The final machines will likely have Ivy Bridge processors and are penned in for an April release (provided that Intel's latest-gen processors hit the market by then). You'll be able to pick up the GT60 for around €1,999 (about $2,630), with the GT70 coming in at €2,299 (roughly $3,025). Scoot on past the break to catch our hands on with the pair.%Gallery-149718%
Sony's CMT-CX5BiP HiFi system takes a style cue from the S2
Leave it to Sony to deliver odd-ball futuristic designs. The company's latest CMT-CX5 "HiFi" system sure is a looker, and could easily be mistaken as the lovechild of its S2 tablet and B&W's Zeppelin. This made for iPhone rig packs 40 watts of RMS power in its modular design with removable speakers, and can also be wall-mounted if you've cluttered your bookshelves. To get the jams flowing, you'll find an iDevice dock, CD player, USB and aux-in ports, as well as FM and DAB / DAB+ radio tuners; Sony's also added in its Dynamic Sound Generator X-tra processing if you want to give your music a slap of vibrance. You'll be able to pick up the CX5 in either black or white from the UK beginning in August, although pricing remains to be seen. For now, feel free to skim the PR past the break while you decide.
Sony intros G-Series micro HiFi iPhone / iPod systems, blends retro looks with modern features
Sony's got a reputation for pumping out forwardly-designed wares, but its new G-Series micro HiFi systems are a blast from the past -- at a glance, anyway. Both rigs are MP3 and iPhone / iPod-compatible via USB and will be available in two different configurations. To start, the CMT-G1BiP / G1iP feature 60 watts of RMS power with DAB packed into the former for those who find only having AM/FM is passé. Next up, the CMT-G2BNiP / G2NiP add WiFi for getting your stream on from the Web or a PC and can be remote-controlled with a free iOS app. The "HiFi" moniker mixed with iPod connectivity might have audiophiles raising a brow to sound quality, but the brushed metal console and its piano-gloss satellites are lookers none-the-less. A single variant is currently listed on the Sony UK site, although there's not a squeak regarding cost or release dates. For now, we'll refer you to the PR after the break.
AMD announces new, more energy efficient Embedded G-Series APUs
AMD has just rolled out two new additions to its line of Embedded G-Series APUs, combining Fusion-based processing with reduced power consumption. Both the T40E and T40R rock the same 64-bit x86 Bobcat CPU cores and DirectX 11-capable GPUs we've already seen in previous G-Series incarnations, but AMD says the pair can operate using thirty-nine percent less power than its cousins. The single core T40R boasts a thermal design power (TDP) rating of just 5.5 watts, while the dual core T40E offers a TDP of 6.4 watts. The two applications are designed for compact fanless systems, including kiosks and mobile industrial devices, though Axiomtek is apparently planning on incorporating the new APUs in a new Pico-ITX consumer PC, as well. Full PR after the break.
The dual-core Sandy Bridge laptops have arrived! Dell, HP, Lenovo, and Sony start shipping systems
If your eyes have been glued to Engadget this week, you've noticed that there have been quite a few new laptops unveiled. Sure, Samsung's rail-thin Series 9 stole a lot of the glory, but Dell and ASUS also rolled out a few new Intel Sandy Bridge systems. But something else big happened this week in the portable computer world -- a good number of the dual-core Sandy Bridge systems finally started shipping to you laptop-loving people. Wait, but didn't that happen back at CES? Not quite: while Intel announced the availability of Sandy Bridge back in January, it only started to ship its quad-core chips -- now all the dual-core Core i3, i5, and i7s are ready and so are the systems that house 'em. We've gathered a list of the rigs that are now up for order or hitting retailers. Hit that read more link for a breakdown, and start deciding if you need some fresh dual-core power in your life.
HP's Pavilion dv6 and dv7 get Envy-like features, g-series loses the bargain basement looks
We know the story: all you want is an HP Envy 14 or 17, but you just don't have the cash. Well, as it turns out, HP's been thinking long and hard about your issue, and its new Pavilion dv6 and dv7 may very well be what the doctor ordered. Pulling out some of the higher-end Envy features, the new 15.6- and 17.3-inch laptops have been refreshed not only with Beats Audio speakers, HD webcams, and HP's CoolSense technology, but they've also been given "dark umber" metal lids / palm rests. Oh, and did we mention the light-up touchpads? Okay, so it's not the same as the Envy's etched-metal case, but they're certainly a step up in design from the previous glossy rigs, and for their respective $750 and $1,000 starting prices, there's no arguing that it's a pretty sweet deal. Spec-wise the machines are just as impressive -- they boast Intel's latest Sandy Bridge Core i5 and i7 processors, AMD Radeon 6000M graphics, and USB 3.0 ports. Additionally, both models will be available with Blu-ray drives and up to two terabytes of storage. Want it tomorrow? We don't blame you, but you'll have to wait until "sometime in March" to order these bad boys. On the lower end, HP's refreshed its Pavilion g-series, and you know what? For under $500, they don't look half bad. Yep, HP's gone ahead and given its budget mainstream line a total makeover with colorful lids (name a color, they've got it), a pseudo-chiclet keyboard, a touchpad that is totally flush with the palmrest, and Altec Lansing speakers. But while you may be able to take the bargain look out of the laptop, it's hard to remove those bargain specs -- the 14-inch g4, 15.4-inch g6, and 17.3-inch g7 get cut off at AMD's Athlon and Turion and Intel's Pentium and Core i3 processors. Still for the $450 to $600 price points, it's not too shabby. The g-series will be available on March 13th, but until then enjoy the hands-on shots below and the full press release after the break. %Gallery-115866% %Gallery-115873%
AMD announces Fusion-based Embedded G-Series platform
We've just seen what AMD's Fusion platform can do for a laptop, and it looks like we'll soon also be seeing it in a lot more devices -- AMD has just announced its new Fusion-based Embedded G-Series platform, which can be used for things like set-top boxes, in-car computers, small form factor PCs, and more. That platform include the low-power x86 "Bobcat" core we've seen all along and a "world-class" DirectX 11-capable GPU, which AMD says adds up to a level of advanced computing that simply isn't available in the embedded market today. Among the first products based on the platform to be announced are a pair of Mini-ATX boards from Fujitsu and three SFF systems from Kontron, which will be joined by a range of other products from various manufacturers that are expected to launch in the "coming weeks." Head on past the break for the complete press release, plus a video of a G-Series-based car computer that AMD was demoing at CES.
Compulab fit-PC3 offers dual-core AMD power in a case less than an inch thick
Think tablets will kill off the nettop like they're doing with the netbook? Think again -- well, for now, at least. Compulab has released details of its latest little powerhouse, and this one's faster than ever despite being less than an inch thick and about six inches across. Maximum spec sees the insertion of an AMD G-series T56N processor, aka the Fusion Zacate, offering dual cores at 1.6GHz while pulling down 18W TDP, paired with a Radeon HD 6310, the two running cool enough to not need a single fan. (It's the same basic setup found in the HP Pavilion dm1z we recently reviewed.) There's up to 4GB of DDR3 memory, room for a 2.5-inch HDD, HDMI and DisplayPort connectors, a whopping six USB 2.0 ports, and even dual eSATA if you need external storage. No word on price just yet but it's said to be "competitive" compared to its predecessors, like the PC2, which currently costs between $300 and $700 depending on configuration.
MSI fords the sands, announces sixteen laptops with Intel Core 2011 chips (update: all-in-ones, too)
We'd heard MSI was seriously considering a pair of Sandy Bridge all-in-one PCs, but when it comes to laptops the company's definitely going whole-hog -- it just announced no fewer than sixteen new laptops with those fancy new Intel second-generation Core processors. The chunky G-series will sport those new quad-core Core i7 chips, with the 17.3-inch GT780 and 15.6-inch GT680 delivering Dynaudio speakers, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 500 and 400-series graphics and dual SSDs, while the GR620 and GE620 are left to fend with lower specs of some sort. The F-series retains the Core i7 chips, but swaps in switchable NVIDIA GT 500-series graphics, excepting the 14-inch FX420 which makes do with Core i5 and loses the dedicated number pad. Finally, the C-series will shoot for eight hours of battery life. MSI's not dropping terribly detailed specs at this point (though you'll find a few in the gallery below) but if you're aiming high, you won't have long to wait for a rig -- that GT680's hitting later this month for $1,500, and the top-tier GT780 in Q2 of this year. PR after the break. Update: Guess what we saw when the press conference ended, and we stood up to leave? Those Sandy Bridge all-in-one PCs. Find pictures (and specs!) in gallery number three. %Gallery-112594%%Gallery-112600%%Gallery-112611%
