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Kia brings Android Auto and Apple CarPlay to older cars
For many, the biggest problem with Android Auto or Apple CarPlay is getting it in the first place. Unless you buy a very recent car, you're likely stuck buying an aftermarket head unit to drag your vehicle into the smartphone era. Kia thinks it can do better, though. It's promising free updates to both Android Auto and CarPlay for a slew of vehicles that have either the UVO3 infotainment system or a compatible navigation system.
Optima OP5-E resurfaces with English OS, gets lengthy video review
By now, you're sufficiently aware that the Optima OP5-E is the first non-Nokia MID to arrive with a Maemo-based operating system. In fact, you've already seen what this bugger looks like on video. What you probably haven't seen, however, is a finalized version of the handheld for the US market, but all that's about to change if you head on past the break and mash play. Oh, and there's even an unboxing gallery down in the source link -- you know, if a 13 minute video review just doesn't quite cut it.
Optima's Maemo-running OP5-E MID demoed on video, priced
We've already gotten a quick look of Optima's new OP5-E MID, but those really curious about the first non-Nokia Maemo device will no doubt want to check out this new video courtesy of techvideoblog.com, which offers nearly ten minutes of turning, tilting and attempts to decipher a Chinese-language interface. The Optima exec on hand also confirms a few details about the device, including the fact that it does indeed pack built-in 3G, and that it'll apparently sell for "around $500." Head on past the break to check it all out for yourself.
AgfaPhoto intros beginner-friendly Optima 1, 100 and 102 cameras
AgfaPhoto might want you to believe that its Optima range of cams is "perfect for the ambitious photographer," but in truth they're entry-level shooters with a slant toward helping the less technically gifted. The new cameras come with 28 automated functions, such as a 'beauty mode' that masks skin imperfections, and a quirky 1920 x 1080 picture format for making widescreen photos that match your 1080p display. The Optima 1 and 102 (pictured) share a 12 megapixel sensor, but diverge on optical zoom (5x versus 3x) and LCD size (2.7 inches versus 3 inches), while the 100 is essentially a 102 scaled down to 10 megapixels. Shaping up as a decent proposition for the often overlooked untrained photographer, the trio will be available in Europe come September at prices between €129 and €179 ($186-$258) [Warning: PDF read link].[Via ZDNet]
Optima OP5-E MID first non-Nokia MID to run Maemo
Honestly, now that Nokia's hooked up with Intel we didn't think we'd ever see any more straight Maemo devices, let alone random third-party Maemo MIDs, but here we are, looking at the Optima OP5-E. The 4.3-inch touchscreen MID with an 806MHz Marvell processor and 128MB of RAM is said to be going through some final software testing before release, and it apparently will support SMS and telephony in the future, so apparently those KIRF iPhone looks are for more than just confusing tourists. No pricing and likely no availability outside of China, but hey -- Maemo, people. Give it up.[Via Pocketables]
Optoma @ CEDIA - A big look at BigVizion
They weren't lying when they said Optima's BigVizion was big. Man, a 100-inch the display is simply huge! It is powered by a 1080p front projection system (kind of) that is installed behind the display and then projected up onto a mirror and then onto the screen. The whole system allows for a very large, and high-quality, picture without the pain and agony that traditional front-projections can cause. This type of system can cost above the MSRP $19,999 once installation is involved and keep in mind, this system is installed in you wall so there needs to be at least 30-inches available. Inner-working shots after the jump
