ifa2014
Latest
Sony's Xperia Z3 Tablet Compact stuffs full performance into an 8-inch slate
Sony had a minor hit when it unveiled the Xperia Z1 Compact, which crammed a full-power smartphone into a smaller frame; now, it's hoping to repeat that success with tablets. Its new Xperia Z3 Tablet Compact is not only one of the thinnest (6.4mm) and lightest (0.6lbs) waterproof, 8-inch tablet you'll find, but it's also actually more powerful than the full-size Z2 Tablet. It still has a 1080p display, 3GB of RAM, an 8.1-megapixel rear camera and a 2.2-megapixel front shooter, but it runs a speedier 2.5GHz Snapdragon 801 processor. The Compact should also last for a very healthy 13 hours of nonstop video playback.
Sony PS4 Remote Play and Game Control Mount coming to Z3 devices
Sony has announced that its new Z3 lineup will exclusively get PS4 Remote Play, a service that has so far only worked with the Vita. The console will detect your Z3 device over WiFi and unlock it, letting you play with a DualShock4 wireless controller using the new GCM10 Game Control Mount (see the image below). On top of playing games, you'll also be able to use a Z3 device as a second screen to view livestreams (of games, of course) or chat over the PlayStation Network. Sony kept using the word "exclusive" with Remote Play, so if you're using a non-Z3 handset, it seems you'll be out of luck. The mount and service will likely arrive when the Z3s do, along with the pricing.
Sony's Action Cam Mini packs just as much power in two-thirds the size
While some users might not love everything about Sony's current adventure camera lineup, you can hardly fault the Action Cams for being too large. Still, when size and weight really matter, such as when you're mounting a camera on a helmet or a drone, it certainly wouldn't hurt to shave off an inch or two. That's exactly what Sony's done with its Action Cam Mini, which replaces the AS100V we first met at CES with a camera that's two-thirds the size. Fortunately, you won't have to compromise on image quality, and all of the former model's accessories work with the Mini, too.
Sony updates 'lens camera' lineup with QX30, interchangeable-lens QX1
At last year's IFA in Berlin, Sony announced its first two "lens cameras," a pair of point-and-shoot cams that clip onto your smartphone. You use your phone's display to control the camera, and while you can technically fire off shots using the integrated zoom toggle and shutter release, there's no built-in LCD. Given the limitations, they're not for everyone, but there's apparently been enough interest for Sony to keep the QX line going, with a 30x zoom version and a unique interchangeable-lens model that accepts any E-mount optic now making their debut here in Berlin.
Sony announces its latest flagship smartphone, the Xperia Z3
We hope you weren't getting too comfy with the months-old Xperia Z2 -- Sony has just unveiled another range-topping Android smartphone, the Xperia Z3. It's really a subtle evolution of its predecessor. You'll still find a 5.2-inch, 1080p display, a 20.7-megapixel camera and waterproofing, but there's now a more rounded aluminum frame. Sony has also added a new, wide-angle 25mm lens (to fit more into a shot) and extra-high ISO 12,800 light sensitivity. It's a little bit faster as well, with a speed-bumped 2.5GHz Snapdragon 801 processor instead of the 2.3GHz chip you saw in the Z2.
The Xperia Z3 Compact is a cut-down version of Sony's latest flagship
Sony may've decided against making a pint-sized variant of its previous leading device, but not this generation. The company's announced at its IFA press conference the Xperia Z3 Compact, a smaller version of the new flagship also revealed today. Here's the thing to remember about the smaller variant -- it packs the same quad-core 2.5GHz Snapdragon 801 chipset under the hood, 20.7-megapixel rear camera (complete with Sony's Exmor RS sensor) and the same sort of rounded waterproof chassis as its big brother. It's the screen that differs most dramatically -- we're looking at a 4.6-inch Triluminos display running at 720p, a pretty significant step down from the 5.2-inch 1080p panel that graces the full-size Z3. Yeah, we know, a 720p screen seems downright passé these days, but it might be a small price to pay for someone tired of all these pocket-busting phablets floating around out there. Of course, you can also expect that slightly less impressive screen to drive the Z3 Compact's price tag down, though at this point we're not entirely sure how much cheaper it'll be than the Z3 when it launches this fall. Update: Check out our hands-on for a deeper look.
Sony announces the SmartWatch 3 with Android Wear
Sony's been making smartwatches since before they were cool, and with the advent of Android Wear, it was only a matter of time before they made another. Enter the SmartWatch 3, announced at IFA today, running Google's new platform specifically for wearables. The third member of the family comes with a 1.2GHz quad-core processor, 1.6-inch screen and Sony's now trademark IP68 waterproofing. Other key features include 4GB of storage, 512MB of memory, NFC support, GPS and a 420mAh battery (charged over micro-USB).
Sony adds wearable and high-res music players to its Walkman line
Still use a dedicated music player for listening on the go? Sony has two new options in its Walkman line that'll do just that, and the NWZ-WS613 takes the wearable player and has it double as a Bluetooth headset. Connecting to your smartphone lets you beam tracks or listen to tunes loaded directly on the device with a ring-like controller for controls and calls that won't break your stride. A smartphone app is also capable of tweaks and skipping around -- should you want to limit the number of items in that gym bag. As you might expect, the unit is indeed waterproof to keep the sweat at bay and connects to fitness apps to further enhance those workouts. Does the wraparound look sound like a solid addition to your exercise attire? Parting with $160 in October will secure one of your very own, but for those who'd rather keep the music player and headphones separate, there's an option for that, too.
Sony outfits the SmartBand Talk with an e-paper screen and voice calling
When does a fitness band become a smartwatch? We'd argue that an e-paper display is one feature you can use to make that distinction, which is exactly what Sony's added to its "lifelogging" SmartBand. A display isn't the only thing new about the SmartBand Talk, because as the name suggests, you can also make/take calls on the wearable thanks to an embedded microphone and loudspeaker. You can only do this when paired with a smartphone, of course, which will also respond to a limited number of other voice commands barked through the wearable. There's an ARM Cortex-M4 32-bit processor to power the whole thing, with 2MB of flash memory and that 1.4-inch black-and-white display to keep you updated on progress. As you might expect, a Core is at work here as well, with edge-mounted volume and menu buttons to round out the onboard controls. And yes, you can swap out the band as the need arises. The IP68 waterproof and dustproof wearable connects to any Android 4.4 (and above) device via NFC and Bluetooth to wrangle tasks for up to three days before needing a charge. If you're looking to get a bit more active, €160 (around $210) will be the cost of admission when the SmartBand Talk arrives this fall in four different color options.
Sony's Xperia E3 is its next colorful, budget device
Not everyone needs a smartphone that's as fast (and as expensive) as their laptop, and competition in the affordable handset market is fierce. Never one to miss an opportunity, Sony has announced that it's complementing the top-end Z3 handset and Compact sidekick with the more modestly endowed Xperia E3. Of course, that means compromising -- Sony says the E3 features "flagship design" and 4G capability, but that's where the high-end comparisons end. It carries a modest 4.5-inch (854 x 480) screen, quad-core 1.2GHz Snapdragon 400 CPU, a 2,330mAh battery, 1GB of RAM, 4GB of expandable memory, a 5-megapixel camera and Android 4.4 KitKat. Though the specs aren't exactly inspiring, Sony is emphasizing social and camera features like HDR and Timeshift burst. There's no word on pricing or availability yet, but lets hope the young target market it's aimed at will be able to afford it.
Sony's soundbar combo offers another high-definition audio option
Headphones and music players aren't all Sony had on tap in the audio department for IFA, as the company has also announced a new soundbar/wireless subwoofer combo. Having already outed two of the devices earlier this year, the HT-ST5 offers the option of 380 watts of 7.1 surround sound across seven digital amps and nine total speakers with support for both Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HS formats. There's a Bluetooth option that touts one-touch NFC connectivity and handles aptX and AAC audio codecs. For hooking up all of those living room gadgets, a trio of HDMI jacks with 4K passthrough connects to your TV with a single cable. And a mobile app for both Android and iOS streams music from places like Pandora and Spotify while providing remote control for the system as well. Ready to upgrade your flat's theater setup? Well, the pair will hit your wallet for $1,000 when it arrives later this month.
Sony's latest headphones tackle high-res and bass-heavy listening
While several other audio outfits have already unveiled hi-fi minded and bass-heavy options, Sony's looking to add some more of the same. First, the MDR-1a is a high-res set of on-ear cans aimed at listeners who fancy high-end aesthetics, with a bit more sophisticated look than the MDR-1. There are silver accents with leather-like material wrapping both the earcups and headband for "long-term" comfort and silent joints keep movement from muddying the tunes. Inside, sound reproduction ticks the meter at up to 100kHz to keep things clear with 40mm drivers powering beats. Of course, there are two cables included -- for those who prefer in-line controls -- designed to curb signal loss and a folding design that tucks nicely into that rucksack. Sound too good to pass up? The MDR-1a will arrive later this month with a $300 price tag that matches several other high-end options.
Samsung partners with Montblanc on a chic Galaxy Note 4 stylus
At IFA 2014 Unpacked, Samsung has announced that it's partnering with venerable pen maker Montblanc on two custom styluses for its new Galaxy Note 4. The "Pix" and the "e-StarWalker" are done in the pen maker's classic, chunky style for any Note smartphone or tablet user. Montblanc calls it a "digital writing" device, a clear sign it's targeting those for whom a flimsy plastic pen just won't do. It also revealed two flip covers for the Note 4, the "Extreme" in a threaded fabric that mirrors Samsung's Galaxy S5 "Band-Aid" design, and the "Soft Grain" with a classic leather look. There's no word yet on availability or cost, but we don't imagine that a digital writing device comes cheap.
Samsung and Oculus partner to create Gear VR, a virtual reality headset that uses the Note 4 (hands-on)
Facebook's Oculus VR is creating the Rift. Sony's PlayStation is creating Project Morpheus. Google is... well, Cardboard exists. And now Samsung's getting in on the virtual reality action, announcing Gear VR at IFA 2014 today in Berlin, Germany. Gear VR is a virtual reality headset with a removable front cover where Samsung's newly announced Note 4 slips in, acting as the screen. Paired with adjustable lenses built into the headset and a comfy strap, Gear VR turns Samsung's next Note into a virtual reality machine. And what's the first thing you'll see when you strap on Gear VR? Oculus VR's handiwork. The company behind the re-birth of virtual reality is partnering with Samsung on Gear VR: Samsung handles the hardware; Oculus offers up its software prowess. Unlike Sony's, Oculus' and Google's VR projects, though, Samsung's delivering a consumer product this year with Gear VR. But is it too early?
Samsung Gear S preview: What's it like to type emails on a 2-inch screen?
Six. That's how many smartwatches Samsung has unveiled in the past 12 months. If these devices were Friends episodes, there'd be the original Galaxy Gear ("The one announced last year at this time"), the Gear 2 ("The one with fewer bugs"), the Gear Fit ("The one designed for fitness tracking"), the Gear 2 Neo ("The one that didn't cost as much") and the Gear Live ("The one that ran Android apps"). If nothing else, it shows that Samsung is willing to experiment -- and maybe even listen to feedback from users, and reviewers like us. Now, as the original Gear turns one, Samsung is showing off its sixth watch, the Gear S: the one that can run without a smartphone. Thanks to its very own nano-SIM card, the Gear S can make calls, as well as show you emails in full, with the option to reply directly from the device using a tiny on-screen keyboard. To Samsung's credit, it's unlike any other device it's made before. But the age-old question still remains: Was anybody asking for this?
The Galaxy Note Edge: Samsung's first smartphone with a bent display
It's been over a year and a half since Samsung briefly (and from a distance) showed off the Youm, a prototype of a smartphone with a curved display that wrapped around the right-hand side. While it seemed like a far-off reality at the time, Samsung announced today that the Youm's spiritual successor -- aptly named the Galaxy Note Edge -- would be coming out this fall. Sure, mass-producing a phone with a bent screen is a tremendous display of manufacturing prowess, not to mention something to show off at parties, but is there more to this unique handset than eye candy?
The Samsung Galaxy Note 4 looks and feels like a premium device (hands-on)
When Samsung launched the very first Galaxy Note at IFA 2011, the device -- a 5.3-inch behemoth that came with a stylus - seemed absurdly large. But the idea was crazy enough to work: It was the beginning of a brand-new phone genre adopted by nearly every handset maker around the world and beloved by millions. Three years later, we're being introduced to the fourth smartphone in the series, known as the Galaxy Note 4. As you might expect, the device comes with new and improved specs in both hardware and software, but the design of the 5.7-inch phone itself has made a huge step in the right direction: It comes with an aluminum frame, and based on my first impression, it's the best looking of the bunch. It's time to explore Samsung's latest large-screened device.
Live from Samsung's 'Unpacked' event at IFA 2014!
Samsung may have already announced a smartwatch that can make phone calls (and also one covered in Swarovski crystals), but that doesn't mean it's showing up to IFA empty-handed. The company is holding its annual "Unpacked" press event today, where it'll almost certainly unveil a new Galaxy Note phone, like it has every year since 2011. Who knows? We may also see that forthcoming virtual reality headset we've been reading so much about. Something tells us, though, that you won't be seeing another Samsung smartwatch so soon. We don't think so, anyway.
We're liveblogging Sony's IFA 2014 event today at 10:15AM ET!
In about an hour and a half, Sony representatives will be taking the stage at IFA 2014 to introduce a whole bunch of products that have more or less been leaked or rumored in some way. We still don't know all of the details, and Sony's known to toss out a few surprises at its press conferences. That said, we're fairly confident that we'll get officially introduced to the Xperia Z3, the miniature Compact and the Tablet Compact, as well as a couple wearables. It should be fun regardless, so join us at our liveblog here as we report on everything Sony! [Image Credit: Ausdroid]
Samsung's announcing a bunch of new products today, get your liveblog here!
The headline says it all, really: Samsung is one of the biggest, if not the biggest, companies here at IFA, and it's about to unveil some shiny new stuff. Join us at 9AM ET today as the tech giant holds its annual "Unpacked" event. Will we see a new Galaxy Note? Maybe that leaked virtual reality headset? Another smartwatch? We'll be on the ground in Berlin, reporting live -- and you can bet your Galaxy S5 that we'll be getting hands-on afterward. Bookmark our liveblog, and meet us there in exactly one hour. Be there or be square. September 3, 2014 9:00:00 AM EDT
