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Engadget HD Podcast 396 - 4.30.14
Net neutrality is still on the table for discussion this week and FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler even wants to hear your opinion on the situation. Ben and Richard share their two cents on the issue and continue to cover all the cozying up between companies including ISPs and content providers. Hulu, on the other hand, is exhibiting some self control and cracking down on international viewers who are sneaking a peek via VPNs. And those who haven't been streaming or watching TV at all lately may have missed Neil deGrasse Tyson's informative Cosmos reboot. But have no fear, if you prefer the offline experience of physical discs, it will soon be arriving to Blu-ray and DVD. If it's enlightenment you're after, then you've come to the right place. We've got all this and more on this week's episode of the Engadget HD Podcast! Hosts: Richard Lawler, Ben Drawbaugh Producer: Jon Turi Hear the podcast:
You can now use the iPhone for free, as long as you don't mind old gear
To date, FreedomPop's no-cost phone service has been attached to older Android phones. That's fine for many, but not exactly diverse. Your choices are a little better now that carrier has added iPhone support to its lineup, though. You can get 200 voice minutes, 500 messages and 500MB of data per month on Apple's handset without paying a dime; it costs the equivalent of $5 per month if you need unlimited calls and texting. It sounds great, so what's the catch?
Engadget Podcast 394 - 4.25.14
Ben and Terrence are serving up a big bureaucratic burrito this week, chock full of net neutrality, legalese and corporate self-interest. To help you digest this gut-buster of a mind meal, we've enlisted Engadget's Editor-in-chief and self-proclaimed armchair attorney Michael Gorman. It's refreshing to know that the Supreme Court is having an intelligent discussion about Aereo's conflict with the big wigs in broadcast TV, but the outcome is anyone's guess at this point. As always, laws are laden with doublespeak and nebulous terms, leaving lots of wiggle room for greedy corporations that favor the bottom line over customers desires. Please join us for this week's lawyerly edition of the Engadget Podcast. Hosts: Terrence O'Brien, Ben Gilbert Guest: Michael Gorman Producer: Jon Turi Hear the podcast:
​California's smartphone kill-switch bill flops in the state senate
US carriers can all collectively breathe a sigh of relief today: California's mobile kill-switch bill is dead, at least for now. The would have required all smartphones sold in the state to include a remote-kill feature designed to render stolen phones useless. The bill was designed to curb phone robberies by making the crime less lucrative. If carriers didn't comply, the state would have been able to fine them $2,500 for every unsupported device sold. Although the fine would have only been enforceable in California, the bill could have put the remote-kill feature in phones nationwide. In fact, it still might: though the bill failed to garner enough votes to move on to the state assembly, it still has the option to return to the senate in the future.
Engadget HD Podcast 395 - 4.23.14
Let's just cut to the chase: Aereo's battle with broadcast TV hit the Supreme Court this week and it's one of the biggest entertainment-related court confrontations since the Betamax case in 1984. Confusion levels have been high, but Ben and Richard are your legal eagles and they break the situation down into its simplest terms. Time Warner Cable recently announced a potential money-saving alternative to cable box leasing, with its $99 set-top box that will stream cable TV and internet video. Netflix, on the other hand, has stated that it will raise its prices for new customers, although it's giving existing users a two-year grace period. There's a heap of HD news to run though this week, so you'll have to tune in to catch it all. Just head down to the streaming links below for this week's episode of the Engadget HD Podcast. Hosts: Richard Lawler, Ben Drawbaugh Producer: Jon Turi Hear the podcast:
Engadget Podcast 393 - 4.18.14
We have less libations, but more tech-related news than last week's peaty podcast and that's just fine for your sleep-deprived hosts. First up is some informed speculation on Amazon's new smartphone, based on a few inconclusive photos that recently surfaced. Another work in progress is Google's Project Ara, a modular concept that looks to make swappable smartphone parts a reality. The one thing that's all too real and in your face, however, is the recent Heartbleed exploit, which has had widespread impact across the web. While you're racing to update all those passwords -- yes, it's OK to do that now -- it couldn't hurt to get a refresher on exactly what happened and which sites were affected. So head on down to the streaming links and get your brain fix with this week's episode of the Engadget Podcast. Hosts: Terrence O'Brien, Ben Gilbert Producer: Jon Turi Hear the podcast:
Engadget Eurocast 060 - 4.18.14
Matt's been steeped in old timey video over the past few days and it seems to have affected Dan's state of mind and podcast introduction. Once the anachronistic antics subside, the lads dig into the plausibility and potential for Google's Project Ara, a modular smartphone design that still has yet to prove its salt in the real world. On the mobile software side of things, BBC's iPlayer has finally embraced Android wholeheartedly and also wants to get viewers into a binging mood. Sky is also keen to get people consuming more content, but it's struggling with how to communicate its bundled packages to the masses. If you're looking for clarity of voice and intelligent banter, however, then you've probably come to the right place. Just pop on down to the streaming links below and you'll be whisked away into the wonderful world of the Engadget Eurocast. Enjoy! Hosts: Dan Cooper, Matt Brian, Jamie Rigg Producer: Jon Turi Hear the Podcast:
Engadget HD Podcast 394 - 4.16.14
If you can't make it camping this year, perhaps Sir David Attenborough's upcoming wildlife TV project in VR will suffice. And for immersion in something with fewer dimensional dynamics, maybe Sony's lineup of 4K TVs will fit the bill. Yes, it's been a relatively slow week for HD, but Richard and Ben need a breather since Chromecast, Aereo and so many others keep dropping news bombs on a regular basis. Richard's been so busy lately that Must See TV recommendations are at a minimum, but Ben shares an interesting DirecTV ad to keep your eyeballs busy. So, please join us at the streaming links below, as we serve up another entertaining and informative episode of the Engadget HD Podcast. Hosts: Richard Lawler, Ben Drawbaugh Producer: Jon Turi Hear the podcast:
Sony has a 4K TV for every budget (that's at least $2,099)
Sony has nailed down the final launch details for its newest 4K Bravia TVs, and surprise -- they just might be affordable this year. The "entry-level" XBR-X850B series will start at a relatively frugal $2,099 for a 49-inch model, with prices peaking at $5,499 for a 70-inch set. If you've got a bit more cash and want upgrades to both audio and wall mounting, the XBR-X900B line starts at $3,999 for a 55-inch set and scales up to $8,999 for a 79-inch variant. There's still a couple of models for the money-is-no-object crowd, of course. The improved LED lighting of the 65-inch XBR-X950B will set you back $7,999, while the display's 85-inch sibling costs an eye-watering $24,999. All of the 4K sets ship in June.
Broadcasters' backup plans for thwarting Aereo include live TV streaming
The big US broadcasters are primarily leaning on legal action to shut down Aereo's antenna-based streaming TV service, but what if the startup prevails in court? Apparently, the media giants aren't too worried; they have some backup plans. The Wall Street Journal claims that CBS is considering a subscription-based video service of its own that would offer both live and on-demand shows for a few dollars per month. While it would still include ads, there might also be an option to pay for Showtime's premium programming.
Engadget Podcast 392: The whiskey 'sode
After a chance meeting with Distiller app co-founder Mikael Mossberg and in-house whiskey expert Stephanie Moreno at this year's SXSW event, a unique podcast concept was born. In this Very Special Episode, our guests serve as spirit guides, taking us through the business and production end of the whiskey trade. They also offer some sage advice on sampling and understanding the nuances of this popular adult beverage. Feel free to drink along (for those 21 and over) as we discuss and sample a selection of whiskey, scotch and rye. So get comfortable, grab your glass and join us for this special edition of the Engadget Podcast. Cheers! Hosts: Terrence O'Brien, Joseph Volpe, Ben Gilbert Guests: Stephanie Moreno, Mikael Mossberg Producer: Jon Turi Hear the podcast:
TiVo update lets you set recording defaults, when it isn't creating chaos (update: fix on the way)
TiVo has been rolling out a firmware update that has given some DVR users a lot more than they were bargaining for. Officially, the refresh supplies Mini, Premiere and Roamio units with a very helpful page for default recording options as well as a host of bug fixes. However, that's when it's working -- quite a few subscribers have been dealing with glitches instead. Some Mini users have received an error that prevents installing the update without unplugging the set-top box for up to three days. Meanwhile, others have seen some of their gear roll back to older code, which can wipe out customizations and break multi-device setups. There are reports of spontaneous reboots and other hiccups, too.
Engadget Eurocast 059 - 4.11.14
Big changes have been brewing for the Eurocast crew in the fortnight they've been away. Engadget UK has officially launched, providing a home base for all things British and eliminating all the rubbish that has no business being telegraphed across the pond. On that note, there's news about Sky's Now TV box and its brilliant ability to morph into a media streamer. Beyond that, however, there's global headlines to address, including details on the Heartbleed security flaw and Twitter's online makeover. Jamie also gets a chance to flaunt his international style and ability to sidestep stereotypes with ease. As to last week's missing podcast, we've managed to pull something together and stitched it to the end of this week's episode as a little treat. We're sorry we weren't there for you on April 1st when you needed us, but that's just the way the cookie biscuit crumbles. So head on down to the streaming links below for a double dose of the Engadget Eurocast, brought to you by lads in Savile Row's bespoke best and football jerseys (we can only assume). Hosts: Dan Cooper, Matt Brian, Jamie Rigg, Sharif Sakr Producer: Jon Turi Hear the Podcast:
Oppo's bringing another LTE phone to the US (and it might just be affordable)
Oppo has a reputation for clever smartphones, but there's a good reason why you rarely see its devices in the US: it hasn't had local LTE data until the (currently unreleased) Find 7, and that's not exactly cheap. Imagine our surprise when we found a version of the R1 with US-capable LTE, fresh from FCC approval. The high-style, low-cost phone can now handle 4G data on T-Mobile and, to a limited extent, AT&T. It should also run quickly on Canadian providers.
Engadget HD Podcast 393 - 4.10.14
HD news seems to be tumbling out of the sky like big, fat, high-definition raindrops and we've got it all covered in this week's episode. Both Richard and Ben have spent some time with Amazon's Fire TV and now that they've gotten past the unskippable tutorial video, they're ready to share their opinions. Richard also took some time to catch some of the Comcast and Time Warner Cable hearing on C-Span in all its standard definition glory and Ben's just recovering after learning there's yet another Lego videogame that he'll have to tackle -- he hasn't even finished the last one yet. This week's Engadget HD Podcast is chock full of info, so settle in and head to the streaming links below to catch the show. Hosts: Richard Lawler, Ben Drawbaugh Producer: Jon Turi Hear the podcast:
C Spire will carry the Samsung Galaxy S5 in May
C Spire customers had to wait months after the initial launch to get the Galaxy S 4, but they won't have to be nearly so patient with the Galaxy S5. The southern US carrier has revealed that it will be carrying Samsung's Android flagship in May, just weeks after the biggest networks get their turn. While there's no mention of pricing so far, it won't be surprising if the GS5 costs the same $200 on contract that we've seen at the largest providers. The relatively quick launch may not have an immediate effect outside of C Spire's core markets, to be sure. Still, it suggests that Galaxy fans nationwide won't have to leave their favorite regional carriers just to get Samsung's latest and greatest in a timely fashion.
Engadget Podcast 391 - 4.4.14
Things are heating up in the podcast studio this week and it's either Terrence's cardigan, Amazon's new Fire TV or the residual effects of Joseph's encounter with a real action hero. There's also a pile of news that came out of Microsoft's Build conference, which isn't surprising considering how long it dragged on. Redmond's own has released Windows Phone 8.1 -- complete with notifications (!) and the Cortana voice-search tool -- amidst a flurry of other news. Having had a few days with Amazon's new streaming box already, the crew offers insights about the development of the Fire eco-system and its chops as a gaming device. We've got plenty in store, so be sure to head to the streaming links below for this week's episode of the Engadget Podcast. Hosts: Terrence O'Brien, Joseph Volpe, Ben Gilbert Producer: Jon Turi Hear the podcast:
Engadget HD Podcast 392 - 4.2.14
If you have a dozen shows that always seem to overlap and you just can't bear to miss any of them, then Verizon may have just the thing. Its FiOS Media Server has arrived under the name Quantum TV DVR and it's ready to make you master of your multi-room domain. With this week's announcements, some casual competition arises between your hosts regarding the details on what Amazon will (did) release -- congratulations Richard -- and the company has locked in season two of Alpha House, along with six other new shows to satisfy your TV jones. The crew also flashes back to the OG Slingbox and provides you with a pile of Must See HDTV for the week. So grab a seat and head on down to the streaming links below to join us for this week's edition of the Engadget HD Podcast. Hosts: Richard Lawler, Ben Drawbaugh Producer: Jon Turi Hear the podcast:
Engadget Mobile Podcast 202 - HTC One (M8)
This week, your host Brad Molen is joined by Phil Nickinson (Android Central) and Russell Holly (Geek) to dig into the details of HTC's newest One smartphone. They've all spent some quality time with the M8 version of the One and can provide insight into the build quality, software performance and day-to-day functionality. There's lots of laughs, no-nonsense perspective and more than a few anecdotes about the One (M8), Android, HTC and life in general. So put down that peanut butter and jelly, because it's Engadget Mobile Podcast time! Hosts: Brad Molen Guest: Phil Nickinson, Russell Holly Producer: Jon Turi Music: Tycho - Coastal Brake (Ghostly International) Hear the podcast:
Engadget Podcast 390 - 3.28.14
It helps if you're born Luckey, but if you also work hard at building Oculus Rift, the rewards are apparently somewhere in the ballpark of $2 billion dollars. Not Dr. Evil levels, to be sure, but you could certainly equip a school of dolphins with lasers, or buy a ton of dogecoins. If you haven't guessed, Joseph and Ben focus on Facebook's recent announcement to purchase Oculus VR. Terrence is on hand, but seems to be resting his eyes and mumbling something about sheep. In contrast, Ben is feeling well rested, although he has spent most of his vacation playing learning how to play Dark Souls 2. While he displays the smug smile of someone who's finally cracked that nut, Joseph pilots the podcast through a series of bizarre dream sequences. Oh, and if you want to get up to speed on the week in tech news, you've come to the right place for that, too. As for details about accelerated custard, we can't help you there, but everything else you need to know is down below at the Engadget Podcast streaming links. You're welcome. Hosts: Terrence O'Brien, Joseph Volpe, Ben Gilbert Producer: Jon Turi Hear the podcast: