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Sharp and Pioneer resurrect Elite with line of LED LCD TVs, pricing starts at $6,000
Remember Pioneer's Kuro brand of HDTVs? The high-end plasma line became the benchmark for the home theater market, leaving a rather large void in the hearts of the HD obsessive after it kicked the bucket two years ago. Now, Sharp and Pioneer are bringing back some of the technology used in that line, while leaving the Kuro name to rest in peace. The Elite branding will remain, however, with the new line of LED LCD TVs. Available in 60-inch and 70-inch flavors, the new Elites will only be available through high-end retailers, and will be priced at $6,000 and $8,500, respectively. The Pro-60X5FD will ship in the US next week, and the Pro-70X5FD will hit stores later this month. Among the sets' features, Sharp promises excellent contrast ratios, high color fidelity, and very low black levels, thanks to zone-based local dimming. The company claims a frame rate of "about 720hz," thanks to 240Hz quadrupling and scanning backlight technology. The TVs also include Sharp's quad-pixel technology, complementing the typical RGB pixel arrangement with a fourth, yellow sub-pixel. This sounds similar to the company's Quattron technology, though Sharp doesn't appear to be using that name with its new Elite line. There's also 3D functionality, and Internet connectivity, with pre-loaded Netflix, Vudu, and social media apps. The TVs also include Elite Advantage Live, for real-time remote technical support. We're at the Elite event in New York City, so stay tuned for more details and a full hands-on later this morning.
Sharp Aquos SH-12C 3D smartphone hands-on (video)
Towards the end of our recent trip to Taiwan for Computex, just as the hustle and bustle was winding down and we'd settled on a bit of sightseeing, we stumbled upon a rare beast -- a smartphone unicorn of sorts -- the Sharp Aquos SH-12C. This 3D-capable Android handset for NTT's Docomo network was imported from its native Japan by a Hong Kong resident who was also attending the epic trade show. Like the HTC EVO 3D, this device features twin cameras and a glasses-free stereoscopic qHD display, so we decided to combine work and play by getting some hands-on time with this mysterious phone right on the observation deck of Taipei 101. Take a look a our gallery below -- complete with foggy views from the 89th floor at dusk -- and hit the break for our hands-on video, first impressions and some camera samples.%Gallery-125920%
Sharp Aquos Phone SHI12 visits the FCC, flaunts its 3D camera in drawings
It's rare that we see Sharp's Aquos phones here in the US, but one model, at least, could be making the long journey stateside. A handset dubbed the CMDA SHI12 just cleared the FCC, and after comparing the drawings in the report to shots of devices already on the market, we're pretty sure it's the IS12SH that Sharp announced for Japan a few weeks back. Though the report is typically terse when it comes to specs, it does confirm that the phone has an 8 megapixel 3D rear-facing camera, Bluetooth, FeliCa, GPS, and tri-band CDMA (B0 / B3 / B6) connectivity. And though it's not in the filing, if this is indeed the IS12SH, then it also has a 4.2-inch qHD display and runs Android 2.3 (or so we'd hope, anyway). Of course, an FCC filing doesn't mean this will ever reach a carrier or go on sale in the US, period. But in case it does, don't say we didn't give you a heads up.
Sharp begins Eco House evaluation in Japan, aims for eco-friendly tech mecca
Looking at vacation homes in Osaka, are you? If you happen upon a blueprint that looks anything like the crib shown above, we're guessing that it'll cost you a pretty penny. Er, yen. Sharp has just started the evaluation process on its newly completed Eco House -- an abode that aims to emit precisely zero carbon emissions while not compromising on the technology within it. It's outfitted with a cadre of energy-saving appliances and AQUOS TVs, all networked in via HEMS and programmed to display energy usage to whatever landlord decides to stop by for the day. Not surprisingly, some of the energy is being sourced from photovoltaic modules, and we're told that a downright absurd 180-inch LCD will be "evaluated for suitability to today's green-conscious world." Something tells us the company won't have too many issues finding volunteers to occupy the joint.
NTT DoCoMo introduces Palette UI for Android, breathes life into your app tray
If you blinked for even a second during the announcement of NTT DoCoMo's summer lineup, you may have missed the mention of an exclusive Android skin dubbed "docomo Palette UI." At the time, all we knew about this international-interface-of-mystery was that it had a heavy emphasis on app management. After gazing upon a recently-published YouTube video and doing a little digging, we can now wrap our minds visually around what to expect. The demo you'll witness below shows off an app tray that's sorted by categories, rather than one buffet that bundles every app you own. It's a welcome idea that will likely be an added value for consumers, but there's one small concern: we've seen this before, most recently in the latest version of MotoBlur, so we would hardly call it innovative. We should expect to see the Palette UI on at least four Android devices coming out this summer, most notably the superthin Medias WP N-06C and powerful Galaxy S II --though we're curious to see what happens to TouchWiz 4.0 on the latter. [Thanks, Derek]
Sharp Aquos Android clamshell flips open for the FCC
Die-hard flip phone enthusiasts may want to rethink their mid-June flight to Japan -- it looks like Sharp's Gingerbread clamshell might be landing stateside after all. Hitting the FCC this week, the Aquos Phone Hybird 007SH rocks Android 2.3 in a waterproof, retro-future flip phone design featuring a 180-degree swiveling touchscreen. Miss texting with T9? Yeah, neither do we, but it'll be nice to have that satisfying hang-up "snap" back, won't it?
NTT DoCoMo announces 24 new mobile wonders (yes, really) to flood its network
So, Japan... want a new mobile device? How about 24? This grandiose announcement comes straight from NTT DoCoMo, which commonly lays its cards on the table for the delight of consumers. Among the selection you'll find eight new Gingerbread phones, six incredibly high-res shooters (ranging between 12.2 and 16.3 megapixels), eight waterproof handsets, and one embedded with Swarovski crystals. We're particularly thrilled to see the mighty Galaxy S II, 3D-capturing Aquos SH-12C, 700-nit Optimus Bright (contrastingly-named but nearly identical to the Optimus Black), ultra-slim MEDIAS WP N-06C, and mobile payment-enabled Xperia Acro. Oh, and don't forget about the LOOX F-07C -- a multi-talented handset that's running Symbian and Windows 7 Home Premium -- while two LTE-enabled WiFi routers are sneaking into DoCoMo's party, too. That's a lot to absorb, so check out the source for individual release timeframes, which begin now and continue through August -- or just check out the PR after the break.
Sharp Aquos Android clamshell tricks friends into thinking you can't afford a smartphone
Looking for a handset that harkens back to simpler, pre-smartphone era, without losing the Googley luster of Android? We've got the perfect phone for you, and all you've got to do is move to Japan and get a Softbank Mobile account. Sharp, one of the largest smartphone manufacturers in its native country, rolled out the retro-future Gingerbread-packing Aquos Phone Hybrid 007SH, an Android 2.3 flip phone with a 180-degree swiveling touchscreen above the hinge and a numeric dial pad below that all the cool kids in Shibuya crave. It's also got some pretty solid specs, so far are clamshell phones go, including a 16MP camera and a 3D-capable display. The handset will hit Softbank in mid-June followed shortly by Sharp's rotary Honeycomb tablet.
Sharp Aquos Phone SH-12C has 3D cameras, qHD resolution, Gingerbread filling
The HTC EVO 3D and LG Optimus 3D just got themselves a new buddy in the three-dee picture-taking arena in the shape of Sharp's Aquos Phone SH-12C. We know, that name just rolls off the tongue. What's remarkable about the 12C is that the dual cameras on its back go all the way up to 8 megapixels (to the EVO 3D's 5), which will be creating quite the tasty workload for the 1.4GHz Qualcomm MSM8255 chip contained within. A qHD (540 x 960) screen resolution also keeps up with HTC's latest, though the 4.2-inch, 3D-capable display on the Aquos offers more pixel density and less in absolute real estate. Android 2.3, replete with some evident customizations, will serve as the OS, and 720p video recording in 3D will also be available when Sharp launches the 12C in Japan on May 20th. Rest of the world? Well, we can dream about it right now.
Sharp announces WiFi-enabled Freestyle Aquos portable TV for Japan
The phrase "portable TV" may conjure up images of a handheld device or luggable 5-inch CRT for most folks, but it looks like Sharp is intent on changing that perception. It's just announced its new Freestyle Aquos portable TV -- a 20-inch, WiFi-enabled LED set that comes paired with a wireless digital TV tuner so you can roam around your house with it. As you can see above, it also comes complete with a handle (which can be used to hang it on a wall), and a built-in kickstand for some tabletop or countertop viewing. It even packs DLNA support so you can access your media library although, contrary to its tablet-esque appearances, you can just reach out and touch it -- you'll have to do things the old fashioned way with a remote control. There's still no word on any plans for a North American release, but folks in Japan will be able to pick one up in their choice of black, white or pink in early June for ¥100,000 (or roughly $1,220). Head on past the break for a video.
Sharp's new 70-inch LCD HDTV is definitely bigger than the one your friend just bought
At its "Spectacularge" press conference today Sharp announced its new 70-inch LC-70LE732U is the largest LCD HDTV on the market . It sports Quattron four color pixels, full LED backlighting, Netflix, CinemaNow, Vudu Apps and DLNA access among its list of features, but no 3D. That will be remedied by one of the three additional models of 70-inch LCDs Sharp says it will ship this summer but in the meantime we're just enjoying a throwback to the heady days of 2006 when consumer LCDs were last found in this size range. Interested parties with enough green to cover the $3,799 MSRP should be able to order these at their local retailers, while the rest can gawk at the specs in the press release and hands-on shots. Oh, and as for those adjectives you'll see just past the break -- a preview of Sharp's marketing campaign, whose target customer has an "emotional" connection to the word big -- well, somewhere Freud is having a field day. %Gallery-121176% %Gallery-121179%
Sharp delivers three new Blu-ray 3D players
After making their debut at CES 2011, Sharp has started shipping its newest Blu-ray players. Each one is Blu-ray 3D ready with currently standard features like DLNA, Netflix, VUDU, Pandora and YouTube access built in, but are priced a step above the average deck these days. The lower end BD-HP25U lacks the included WiFi and IP control of the higher end models (dongle optional) while the BD-HP35U (pictured above) lacks only the RS-232 control port of its BD-HP75U counterpart. The BD-HP25U ($249) and BD-HP35U ($299) are shipping now while the BD-HP75U ($329) is due to arrive March 14, check the full details in the press release after the break.
Pioneer Elite HDTVs to ride again in 2011... as rebranded Sharp LCDs
It was a dark day when Pioneer announced its mighty Kuro HDTVs would be no more, but the Pioneer Elite brand still has significant cachet and will return in 2011 on new high end TVs. The bad news? They will be LCDs, not plasmas, manufactured by its partner Sharp, a not entirely surprising move since this was actually the original plan for the Kuro brand back in 2008. Apparently both see potential as Sharp will gain access to higher-end AV salesrooms and integrators for its products, while Pioneer will have TVs to match its continuing Pioneer Elite Blu-ray player and receiver lines. Despite an impressive local dimming demo at CES we're still not sure Sharp can create enough new pixels to replace what we once had, but we should find out for sure when the new models arrive the end of the year, check the press release after the break for more details.
Sharp has 70-inch 3D LCD, soundbars and new Blu-ray players on deck for 2011
Sharp intends to keep its position in the large LCD market with the help of two new lines which both top out at 70-inches -- finally. The LC-70LE732U 3DTV sits at the top of the LE835 series which is also set to be available in sizes ranging as small as 40-inches and is expected in February. No word on what any of these sets will cost ya, but they will all feature built-in WiFi and a wide range of streaming options including VUDU and Netflix, as well as other internet apps like Flickr, Facebook and Twitter. The trio of new 3D Blu-ray players, the BD-H25U, BD-H35U and BD-H75U, will also ship this February with many of the same network and streaming options as the TV, but will also be IP controllable for home automation fans. Meanwhile there are five new soundbars on tap starting with a USB model, the CP-USB500, for great sound on the go and ending with the HT-SL70 which can pass 3D signals via HDMI 1.4a and even supports an audio return channel. %Gallery-112757% %Gallery-112760%
Sharp and Samsung's CES posters preview Smart TV apps, 70-inch Quattron LCD
Samsung and Sharp couldn't help but tip their hands regarding CES announcements with some of the posters wrapped around the Las Vegas Convention Center. While Sharp is advertising its largest Quattron LCD ever at 70-inches (up from a mere 68-inch version before) Samsung is taking the opportunity to invite everyone to "join in" its Smart TV platform. No word on whether that encompasses its expected Google TV efforts or just existing Samsung Apps, but icons listed included the already available Google Maps, Facebook, Twitter and more, check out a few more pictures after the break.
Sharp's ultraslim BD-AV70 Blu-ray / BDXL player hitting Japan soon for over a grand
Remember that slimmer-than-slim Blu-ray 3D / BDXL player that Sharp demonstrated at CEATEC? Looks like the world now has a ship date and price, though you aren't likely to be keen on either. The unit itself -- which measures but 35mm thick and looks eerily familiar to the slimmed-down PlayStation 2 -- will tout a Blu-ray recorder while supporting BD 3D and BDXL playback, and there's even compatibility with OTA broadcasts for those looking to toast television to blank Blu-ray media. Naturally, a contraption this awesome is going to be reserved for the Japanese market, with reports suggesting that it'll ship anywhere between mid-December to early January. The real kicker, however, is the price -- at ¥85,000 ($1,047 based on today's exchange rate), we're surmising that only a handful of individuals can afford to give this thing the time of day. And that, friends, is a modern day travesty.
KDDI au outs Winter 2010 and Spring 2011 collections at the same time
A few of these handsets were already public knowledge, but by and large, KDDI's mind-numbing torrent of phones announced as members of its new Winter 2010 and Spring 2011 collections will leave you once again asking why you haven't sold your four-bedroom suburban home and relocated your entire family to a 125 square foot flat in the heart of Tokyo. We've already talked about the X-Ray, a member of KDDI's fashion-forward iida line, and the 16.4 megapixel Sony Ericsson S006 -- but other highlights include the IS04, IS05, and IS06, Android smartphones from Toshiba, Sharp, and Pantech, respectively (which doesn't even include Sharp's IS03 announced at CEATEC a few days ago). Of the three, none matches the IS03's 960 x 640 display nor its low-power secondary LCD, but the Toshiba Regza IS04 notably features a 12.1 megapixel cam. As the iida line goes, the X-Ray will be joined by the G11, a follow-on to 2009's G9 model -- and from what we can discern, it'll be a GSM / CDMA dual mode slider for international roaming with a touch-sensitive area below the 854 x 480 display in place of the G9's physical keys. Highlights among the other models include an upgraded Sharp Aquos Shot SH010 combining a 14.1 megapixel sensor with a waterproof shell, a Bravia-branded Sony Ericsson S005 with a 1GHz processor, and "simple" phones from Kyocera and Pantech -- the K008 and PT002, respectively -- that are designed for the occasional shopper that actually doesn't want ridiculous specs designed to make every phone outside Japan look like a DynaTAC. There's also a new e-reader, the E Ink-equipped Biblio Leaf SP02, featuring integrated solar recharging -- a smart feature for a device designed to sip power in the first place -- and a new mobile WiFi hotspot from Pantech, the WiFi Walker Data05. If you need to know more, follow the source link, but we've got to warn you: it might be hours before you're done.
Sharp trots out AQUOS Quattron 3D HDTVs, complete with Blu-ray recorders
You should know by the inclusion of a Blu-ray recorder that these guys are reserved for the Japanese market, but what's stopping you and yours from drooling over 'em? The 52-inch LC-52LB3 and 46-inch LC-46LB3 are the latest members of the AQUOS Quattron 3D family, and aside from packing 1080p panels and integrated TV tuners, you'll also get a slot-loading Blu-ray drive that plays back BD films and can toast material on BDXL media. Not too shabby, eh? They'll be on sale halfway across the world this November, but pricing remains a mystery -- we're guessing it's one of those 'if you have to ask...' type scenarios.
Sharp intros HDD-equipped AQUOS Blu-ray 3D players, complete with BDXL support
You won't find this trio hitting US shores anytime soon, but those situated in Japan have a new gaggle of Sharp BD decks to ogle. The BD-HDW65 and BD-HDW63 both include a pair of TV tuners, BDXL support and compatibility with Blu-ray 3D titles, with the only difference being the hard drive -- there's a 500 gigger in the former and a 320GB drive in the latter. The BD-HDS65 goes with a single digital tuner, a single analog tuner and a 500GB hard drive, which might prove useful for storing copious amounts of drama from Sky TV. You'll also find WiFi integrated throughout, not to mention an Ethernet jack, HDMI output, component jacks and DLNA support. We're told that the first two should ship in around a month, with the last fellow going on sale in Japan this November; as for pricing, we're hearing a range from ¥90,000 ($1,066) to ¥120,000 ($1,422), which ain't cheap no matter how you slice it.
Sharp releases slew of new Quattron TVs at IFA 2010
Just in case those George Takei commercials didn't clue you in that Sharp was serious about Quattron, the company has announced four new TV lines at IFA sporting yellow as a fourth subpixel color. At the top of the list, the Quattron 3D-enabled LE925 line will be available in 60-inch or 46-inch sizes and feature Sharp's proprietary high-speed FRED LCD signal processing technology along with side-mounted scanning LED backlighting -- which like the LV Series -- is touted to produce 1.8x better brightness than competing sets and reduce 3D crosstalk. Aquos Net+ connectivity is thrown in too, along with 2D-to-3D conversion, a digital triple tuner and 8GB of built-in flash memory for timeshift recording. Playing second fiddle to this overachiever are the 2D-only LE924E, LE824E and LE814E series, which will also feature Aquos Net+. Pricing details for all of the new lines are still unknown, but they're slated to be available in Germany and Austria later this month. Here's hoping Sulu gets his jaw checked out before then.
