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Media Center to live in a separate version of Windows 8?
To the surprise of many, but not all, the same great Windows Media Center from Windows 7 was part of the Windows 8 Consumer Preview. What this means for the final version of Windows 8 is still far from known, however, Winunleaked offers up a new clue with the Pro Pack edition labeled as ProfessionalWMC. It's hard to know however, if this is just a different SKU for the Professional version of Windows 8 or a glimpse of something that will impact multiple version of the new operating system. Media Center started as a separate product from Windows proper and Microsoft has publicly left clues that it might return to its roots -- presumably to avoid making every Windows user pay licensing costs for codecs like Dolby Digital that are required for live TV. For the moment, it's really just more speculation while we wait for the fall to arrive with latest official offerings from Redmond.
Agile Route's Shopper Tracker brings Kinect hacks, Google Analytics to the grocery aisle (video)
The Shopper Tracker is one of those devices that does exactly what its name suggests -- and so much more. Developed by Argentina's Agile Route, this Kinect hack uses an array of heat sensors and 3D spatial recognition software to track a consumer's movements and behavior within any brick and mortar retail outlet. These data can then be used by a store owner to find out which shelves and items are appealing to customers, effectively adding a Google Analytics-like dimension to their product displays. The system is also capable of tracking multiple people at once, and can even provide feedback on which products consumers actually pull from the shelves. According to the company, this type of analysis can result in obvious strategic benefits for merchants, while reminding the rest of us that we're totally predictable. Check it out in action, after the break.
White PS3 coming to Europe and Australia this November
If you're currently taking up residence in Europe or Australia and don't already possess a PlayStation 3, you might want to hold off on making the big purchase until the holiday season. According to retailer listings in the two continents, Sony will launch the 320GB Ceramic White PS3 model (which has been available in Japan for almost a year) in November for €300/£250 or AUD$448. Why would you wait? Isn't this particular SKU of the consoles functionally identical to those currently available? Well, sure, but don't you want as many options available to you as is possible? Do you prefer if someone makes all your decisions for you? You've really gotta start thinking outside the box, man.
Best Buy adding new Apple laptop SKUs to its systems, foreshadows MacBook Pro refresh
Best Buy's laptop discovery tool is doing a slightly overzealous job this morning by listing a set of "new SKU" laptops from Apple Computer before said company has had a chance to announce them. This seems to corroborate recent rumors of a MacBook Pro refresh coming next week, as do the $1,199, $1,499, $1,799, and $2,199 price points, all of which are presently occupied by current-gen 13- and 15-inch MBP variants. There is an additional $2,499 sticker for a laptop identified only as "New SKU I," which presumably points to an upgrade to Apple's 17-incher. Regrettably, there's nothing more than the pricing for us to go on, but feel free to fill your time until Best Buy populates its listings with speculation about the hot new processing, storage, and interconnect options Apple might have in store for us. [Thanks, Michael]
New MacBook Pros may be on the way for March
9 to 5 Mac is reporting increasing signs that new MacBook Pros are on the way. This latest evidence is from Best Buy "dummy SKUs" in its inventory system. If correct, the new laptops will come in at $1199 with a March 11 availability date. Those Best Buy dates aren't always accurate, but it looks like something might be coming. The MacBook Pro line has been getting a bit long in the tooth in terms of basic design. The last release of the MacBook Pro was in April of 2010. The current laptops are in short supply in some countries. Some of the international Apple Online stores are showing 2-3 week delays. At the US store, all MacBook Pro models are shown to be in stock and shipping within 24 hours. [via 9 to 5 Mac]
Three iPad dummy SKUs appear at Best Buy website
There's not much to see here, folks, just a few listings on Best Buy's website for Apple iPads that don't currently exist. They could be the result of a database error, an employee prank, or even just wishful thinking. Still, between well-placed sources informing us that a super-high-resolution, SD-card bearing, dual-mode iPad 2 is on the way and a feeling of déjà vu, we can't help but think there might be a rather exciting prize behind doors number one, two and three. Or perhaps just a Verizon iPad. We're sure that would make someone's day. [Thanks to everyone who sent this in]
HTC Thunderbolt and Samsung i520 bring LTE gravitas to Verizon's stock-keeping systems
So if the HTC Incredible was coded as the ADR6300 in Verizon's internal systems, just what do you think an ADR6400 could signify? A pair of screenshots from a VZW employee living out a Julian Assange daydream have seemingly confirmed the common expectation that Verizon will very soon deliver its Incredible successor -- better known to you and us as the LTE-equipped HTC Thunderbolt. Aiding and abetting the HTC handset in getting the red team's LTE network started will be Samsung's SCH-i520, an Android 2.2 device equipped with that most critical of accessories, a front-facing camera. Both are now standing on the precipice of showing up for sale, those zeroes in the stock column shouldn't remain so round for much longer. [Thanks, Andrew]
Nikon D3100 bundle pops up in Best Buy database with September 18th release?
We still don't know for sure what Nikon has planned for its August 19th press event -- if we did, there wouldn't be much of a reason to have a press event. Whispers, murmurs, and other rabble rousing point to a D3100 digital SLR capable of 1080p video with continuous autofocus -- and now Best Buy is apparently lending credence to such talk. According to Nikon Rumors, SKU 1222817 has popped up in the retailer's database along with the description "Nikon D3100 DSLR w/ 18-55mm v" and a September 18th availability date (no pricing details mentioned by the site). We haven't seen the entry for ourselves yet -- and unreleased product listings in retail databases shouldn't be taken as gospel anyway -- but forgive our excitement as we look for more ways to both keep our Nikon quota and oust the aging D3000 from our arsenal.
New $199 Xbox 360 coming this fall
A Microsoft representative has confirmed to Joystiq that a $199 version of the new "short" Xbox 360 will be available this fall. Kotaku recently reported on a retailer document revealing the cheaper version of the console, along with a SKU containing both the new Xbox system and Kinect. Microsoft declined to comment on the Kinect bundle or offer any further details of the $199 model (beyond the price and release window). At least we now know that Microsoft isn't crazy and hasn't completely given up on having a $199 Xbox 360 to pit against the Wii. It also makes sense that a $199 "Arcade" version would be on the way, given that retailers like Amazon still refer to the new 250GB model as the "Elite." %Gallery-95126%
New PS3 models outed by FCC just days ahead of E3
With the big E3 Expo set to kick off in just four days, we must admit to being more than a little intrigued at finding a new PS3 model bumble its way out of the FCC test labs. PlayStation 3 models CECH-2501A and CECH-2501B are both certified for 802.11b/g WiFi and Bluetooth 2.0+EDR differing only in hard disk drive configurations. We're also seeing a pair of PS3 DECH-2500A and DECH-S2500A debugging stations -- interesting since a debug unit is typically only required when there's been a change in the chips on the motherboard. Feel free to speculate as we prepare for E3 to kick off on June 15th.
PlayStation 3 is finally HDTV ready with an HDMI cable pack-in for Father's Day
It's always seemed a bit ridiculous to us that a console that promised "full HD features from the start" was never capable of playing games or movies in high definition right out of the box, but this special Father's Day PS3 bundle fixes that with an HDMI cable packed in. Of the many PlayStation 3 SKUs so far, none have come with anything other than standard def-only composite cables, requiring add-on component cables (the ones for PS2 always worked) for 720p/1080i or an aftermarket HDMI cable for 1080p, and retailers have been only too happy to limit their supply to $40+ options. The Xbox 360 used to earn a gold star for including component cables and later HDMI in some packages, but recently dropped HD cables in the name of saving a few bucks. We're sure you've already got Monoprice and other bargain cable sellers bookmarked, but at least we can rest easy knowing Dad can enjoy LittleBigPlanet or a Blu-ray movie on his HDTV without having to run back out for the proper cables.
Exclusive: Best Buy playbook for iPad leaked, quantities to be extremely limited
Planning to skip the Apple Store crowds and sneak over to one of the 670+ Best Buy stores that will be selling the iPad on launch day? Better get there early, as each store will be limited to 15 iPads in stock, and those WiFi-only iPads will be evenly distributed among the three price points. Our tipster iSecretApples tracked down the Best Buy sales playbook for the iPad, and we've got the screenshots below. (The playbook is so fresh, iSA reports, that Best Buy district managers and store managers don't have it yet.) Other worthwhile tidbits gleaned from the playbook: The fourth SKU rumored for the Best Buy lineup is indeed the demonstration/not for resale unit. Best Buy's April 11 ad insert will feature the iPad on the front cover, even though not all Best Buy locations will stock the iPad. Stores are expected to receive another 15 iPads for sale on 4/11, but if supplies are constrained they may have to hold some of the initial inventory back. This implies that Apple will be able to tell Best Buy prior to 4/3 whether or not the second round of deliveries will be coming. iPads will not be sold via Best Buy's website, consistent with the original rumor. iPad accessories will also be stocked at Best Buy 15 iPads per store may not last long, but since we're also hearing that in-store reservations at Apple Stores have now been closed -- tipster Travis reports being told by an Apple Store employee that the leftovers will be released 3pm on Saturday, when any reservations that haven't been picked up will be allocated for general sales -- Best Buy may be your best bet for an iPad purchase during the first week. Update: Our amigo Josh T. at Engadget also has some spy shots of the playbook, including a wider view listing the available accessories. %Gallery-89143%
Sony slips two new PS3 Slim models through the FCC
Our favorite pseudonym company out there, Sand Dollar Enterprise, is back with a pair of new filings with the FCC pointing to a refresh of the PlayStation 3 Slim hardware. We don't know specifically what has been overhauled inside, though the two new SKUs, CECH-2101A and CECH-2101B, mimic the coding scheme of the current hardware, which is CECH-2001A and B. The alphabetical differentiation relates to different hard drive sizes inside, with 120GB and 250GB options available today and likely to be replicated in the forthcoming consoles. Looking at the FCC's radio testing, we find the same 802.11b/g and Bluetooth 2.0 + EDR transceivers as are in the current Slim, leading us to believe the changes are elsewhere or, as PS3 News suggests, maybe Sony has just found new manufacturers for the same chips and had to run them through the validation committee again. It's just that the latter is far less exciting than the idea of Sony starting up an upgrades war with some tasty springtime spec bump.
Dummy Apple SKUs materialize in Best Buy's inventory system?
Listen, we know what you're thinking: "Hey Engadget, what's with all the excessive Microsoft coverage today? Where's our Apple rumors?" Here you go! Though the last Best Buy database screencap ended up being even more dubious than we had suspected, today's MacRumors-borne pic has the added bonus of a trio of new entries, aptly titled Dummy SKU A, B, and C, respectively. There's not a lot to go on here, and assuming the shot is legit (we cannot independently confirm at this point), it doesn't really say much. Oft-coveted refreshed MacBook Pros? Those pesky WiFi iPads due out next month? Bobble heads for Steve Jobs, Phil Schiller and Scott Forstall? We may never know for sure. [Thanks, Ryan]
Current MacBook Pro SKU given mark of death in Best Buy database?
We'll admit to not being leading the field of study in Best Buy-ology, but here comes a new quiz for us care of a tipster who sent TUAW a screenshot of the inventory screen that shows what looks to be the current MacBook Pro SKU with status: deleted. What that means is no new orders can be made for that unit, at least for that particular store. Sign of impending MBP refresh? Intel certainly had us riled up last month with that Core i5-infused flier, but we won't get fooled again. Don't hold your breath for this one, but if more telltale signs start popping up, we'll be sure let ya know. Update: Giving credit where due; the image originates from the MacRumors forums. Update II: Another tipster familiar with Best Buy's systems wrote in and noted that "Deleted only means that the that particular store is having it pulled from their planogramed assortment." Sorry to burst your bubble. [Thanks, Jose R]
Leaked back-of-box chart shows Xbox line winnowing down to Arcade and Elite SKUs
And then there were two? After Microsoft got all cute with us and introduced its current lineup of three concurrent Xbox versions, we thought we'd never get that portion of our limited brain matter back for storing more important things -- like the complicated political structures of Frank Herbert's Dune, for instance. Well, if this recently leaked photo of a revised Xbox 360 Arcade box is any indication, the regular "Xbox 360" SKU is on the outs, to make room for just the Arcade and Elite configurations on each end of the spectrum. Hopefully this means the Elite is also going to shuffle on down to the middle SKU's $300 pricepoint, but we'll have to wait and see. Naturally, Microsoft might just want that third slot for a Project Natal-packing Xbox edition next year, or perhaps this whole different box situation is just a Excel spreadsheet mishap that's gotten way out of hand. [Via Electronista]
Pachter: Current console cycle to go on and on, expect lots of SKUs
Wedbush Morgan's Michael Pachter already told us about the inevitable WiiHD (inevitable to him, anyway), and that he thinks this cycle will be the last, and in his massive 201-page report Wedbush Morgan sent out recently, he reiterates both, but pointed out that this console cycle will outlast any other in history's past due to two things: HD displays and console SKUs.Pointing to the small adoption rates for HD displays, Pachter says that unless consumers start coming out in droves to pick up HD displays, these consumers aren't going to feel compelled to pick up a HD-compatible console (or upgrade from their Wii). This, he feels, adds longevity to the current cycle, stating that current-generation console sales will go long tail, and says that the lower-than-expected adoption rates for consoles suggests a longevity not seen in the past. He also suggests that the increased developmental costs of this generation will cause developers and publishers to milk this generation for all its worth, extending its life that much more. And, due to this, Pachter believes that console sales won't reach their peak until early next decade, when HD adoption rates will also supposedly hit their peak. And speaking of higher costs, manufacturers are looking to cut costs, and that's where the value of optional SKUs comes in. Pachter points out that as console manufacturers come up with new ways to cut corners, they will offer SKUs taking advantage of this. Pachter points to the PS3 Slim as an obvious release for later this year, and the numerous different packages we've seen offered for the Xbox 360 as examples of this new mentality.
Best Buy to receive new 80GB PS3 SKU after E3, will cost $399
Click to see the big picture. It looks as though Sony is planning to introduce yet another PS3 SKU in the coming weeks. A reader has tipped us to a new addition to Best Buy's product database -- a "limited edition" PS3 bundle that includes a 80GB system and two games. It sounds similar to Target's post-GDC PS3 bundle, which included MotorStorm and Resistance.According to the database, this new SKU is scheduled for release on June 9th, one week after the start of this year's E3 Expo. The listed price for the bundle is $399, the current price for a PS3 system now. Analysts have repeatedly stated a PS3 price cut is in the works, but this new SKU may suggest otherwise. Conversely, Sony may opt to drop the price on a "bare bones" bundle, while offering this new "elite" package at the now-standard price.For now, this new bundle may be exclusive to Best Buy, similarly to Target's post-GDC bundle. The UPC listed uses a prefix that is typically used in Best Buy's PlayStation products. If Sony packages some newer high-profile games with the system (we have a few in mind), the $399 price point might be a bit more attractive. Oh, and Sony, please don't bundle Lair and Haze with the system, kthanks.
Windows 7 SKUs announced: your worst nightmare has come to pass
Remember that screenshot we saw of all those different Windows 7 versions (pictured above)? Well guess what? It's worse than you could have possibly imagined. The following will be the actual new SKUs for the OS: Windows 7 Starter (limited to three apps concurrently) Windows 7 Home Basic (for emerging markets) Windows 7 Home Premium (adds Aero, Touch, Media Center) Windows 7 Professional (Remote Desktop host, Mobility Center, Presentation mode) Windows 7 Enterprise (volume license only, boot from virtual drive, BitLocker) Windows 7 Ultimate (limited availability, includes everything) This information has been confirmed by Microsoft... who never listens to us. At least most consumers will only see Home Premium and Professional options at retail, which is more akin to the XP options of yore, and means WMC will be "baseline" for most PCs.Update: Just to be clear, we've checked specifically with Microsoft on all six versions, and the placement of Home Basic in emerging markets. There's now a full breakdown after the break.
Ratchet & Clank headline another PSP-3000 bundle; you're simply thrilled
Look, we know how much you love Ratchet & Clank-oriented PSP SKUs, don't try and hide your desire. This latest PSP-3000 bundle to feature the respectively furry / mechanical duo includes a black PSP and Everyday Shooter in addition to Ratchet & Clank Size Matters, instead of the silver PSP and echochrome featured in that other bundle. These are all very important distinctions, we assure you. A 1GB Memory Stick Duo card and the ever-desireable National Treasure 2 are included as well. The new bundle hits on December 15 for the same old $199 pricetag. We're still waiting on that $169 standalone PSP-3000 with bated, Skype-ready breath. [Via PSP Fanboy]
