Google launches Wikipedia rival
Posted July 25, 2008 at 10:24 AM by Leo Blanco
Section: Web, Websites, Google
Google seems to be aiming its crosshairs directly towards the online encyclopedia, Wikipedia, with the official launch of Knol.
Knol, the names comes from the short version of the word knowledge, is a different type of user-generated encyclopedia because every writer is identified with their photo and profile. After 7 months in beta phase, it is now open for everybody to share his or her expertise in diverse topics ranging from backpacking to molecular biology.
In contrast to Wikipedia, it does not rely on the community to add or verify information. Also, readers don’t have the right to edit the content. They can only rate them or write reviews about them. The idea is to make its content more reliable and authoritative. As a way to entice online users to contribute to Knol, Google is dangling revenue-sharing opportunities to writers via its publisher platform, Adsense.
Then again, I don’t think Knol is the Wikipedia-killer. Well, maybe not now, considering the colossal difference in terms of content. Besides, the aim of the Knol platform seems to be multi-directional since it can also hit the likes of About.com and Web 2.0 sites such as Squidoo and Hubpages once it gains traction.
Apple seeds iPhone 2.1 firmware
Posted July 25, 2008 at 09:49 AM by NEWS
Section:
FROM APPLETELL - Apple has just seeded a beta version of iPhone 2.1 Firmware to developers. Apple has apparently included Core Location, which might suggest turn-by-turn GPS. MORE »
Toshiba’s prototype UMPC probably won’t go into production
Posted July 25, 2008 at 09:10 AM by Mark Rollins
Section: Computers, Mobile Computers
Toshiba is very good at dominating the laptop market, and it looks like they have tried to make a new kind of ultra-mobile personal computer (UMPC).
This particular UMPC features an Atom processor with 64GB of SSD storage. It has Windows Vista, as well as a GPS. Not only does it have a lovely silver frame, but a 5.6-inch touchscreen.
As you can see from the picture, the touchscreen allows for an intriguing keyboard for a double-handed interface. I’ve never really seen anything like it before, but I’m certain that I am wrong.
I mean if it were that innovative, wouldn’t Toshiba put this UMPC prototype into production. Can you believe that Toshiba isn’t going to put this out? I believe the reason for this is that they say it is too small.
Maybe they will change my mind after this entry to Gadgetell. That’s right, Toshiba, the people have spoken, or, at least, they will speak.
Via [Gizmodo]
Roku sells 100,000 Netflix players?
Posted July 24, 2008 at 07:52 PM by Robert Nelson
Section: Video, Content, Video Providers, Gadgets / Other, Household
According to recent reports it looks like the Netflix player from Roku has almost hit the 100,000 unit sold milestone. The Netflix player was originally launched back in May of 2008 and was quickly sold out. Overall not a bad set of numbers, especially considering that Apple has sold just 400,000 AppleTV units in two full years.
My question is, assuming that Roku did in fact hit 100,000 units sold, how many of them are actually being used? Personally mine collects dust most of the time, because the current availability of movies is just not where it should be.
Of course, that just brings me to a good point, assuming Netflix had a much larger and more desirable movie selection, can you imagine how many units Roku could have sold.
Via [paidContent]
Chinavasion claims they have created world’s thinnest MP4 player
Posted July 24, 2008 at 06:41 PM by Natesh Sood
Section: Audio, Portable Audio, Video, Portable Video
Chinavasion recently unveiled their new MP4 player that they claim is the world’s thinnest portable media player. It even beats Brando’s disappearing screen MP3 player, in fact this 4GB CVSJ-1304 beats the former record holding device by a whole millimeter!
To give you some perspective on how thin this 4.5mm thin device is, it would take 4 credit cards stacked on top of each other to be at equal thickness. It comes with a 1.8 inch touch screen, with a resolution of 160 x 128, supports media formats such as MP4, MP3, WMA, ASF, and WAV. Additionally, it comes with an FM tuner, a rechargeable battery and USB connectivity. It is already on sale for only $39.55, which is a great price for a 4GB MP4 player, especially one that is this thin.
Via [PMP Today]
Sony opens the Reader; now compatible with other booksellers
Posted July 24, 2008 at 05:39 PM by Robert Nelson
Section: Gadgets / Other, Household, Miscellaneous
Sony has just announced that they are opening up their Sony Reader to be compatible with other booksellers. An update, that is expected to be available today will allow Sony Reader owners to purchase books in the protected EPUB format from any retailer and not just the Sony e-book store.
The EPUB format is supported by publishers which include Simon & Schuster, Penguin Group, HarperMedia, Hachette Book Group, HarperMedia and Harlequin Enterprises Ltd.
This will, at least from Sony’s perspective make the Reader a little more attractive as compared to some others currently on the market, namely the Kindle which has more than 140,000 books available. Sony’s online e-book store has just about 45,000 available.
Of course, I have to point out that while this does make the Reader a much more attractive purchase, it is still lacking the instant access to purchase a book directly from the device like the Kindle.
In addition, Sony also announced that the PRS-505 is now available for pre-order in the UK, of course it will not begin shipping until September, but its still nice to see them get the availability, especially its been available here in the US for quite a while now.
Read [Yahoo! News]
Creative intro’s the artsy-looking ZEN Mozaic media player
Posted July 24, 2008 at 04:24 PM by Arnold Zafra
Section: Audio, Portable Audio, Video, Portable Video
It was only last week when Creative made the ZEN X-Fi PMP available in the US, and here they come again teasing us with a new media device; the ZEN Mozaic. Featuring artsy designs that are rather unusual for media players of such kind. The ZEN Mozaic features a built-in speaker, a 1.8-inch LCD color screen, FM radio and voice recorder.
In addition the Mozaic gives out 32 hours of audio playback with a single charge of the battery. Weighing a mere 18.8-ounces and measuring 3.13 x 1.57 x 0.50-inches, you wouldn’t have a problem carrying this media player around with you.
The Creative ZEN Mozaic media player will be available in Singapore by August and will retail for $72 on the 2GB model and $94 on the 4GB model. Additionally, 8GB and 16GB models are expected to be released later on. No information was announced on whether it be will released in the US market though. But like the X-Fi PMP which was also released first in Singapore, we’re expecting the it will just be a matter of time before Creative makes the Mozaic available for all of us to purchase.
BlackBerry Kickstart 8220 reviews begin to trickle-in
Posted July 24, 2008 at 03:11 PM by Robert Nelson
Section: Communications, Cellphones, Smartphones, Mobile
We have seen plenty of leaked images for the upcoming clamshell-styled BlackBerry Kickstart, so I guess seeing an early hands-on report surface should not be all that surprising.
The crew over at CrackBerry were able to get their hands on RIM’s first venture into the world of the clamshell, and while the BlackBerry Bold and Thunder may be stealing some of the recent spotlight, it seems the Kickstart is going to be a solid offering.
A few items to point out is that the display is big, and although not quite the same quality as what is found on the Bold it was noted as “looks good.” The Kickstart 8220, as indicated by the number pattern will feature Wi-Fi, it also has the “next gen” SureType keyboard which was described as “massive” and easy to use, which sounds like it will be a nicer typing experience as compared to the Pearl.
The Kickstart 8220 also features the Pearl-style trackball, which in this case is set down a little further, most likely in an effort to keep it from rubbing the internal display, but it was noted as being a little trickier to use.
Otherwise the Kickstart will feature a 240 x 320 internal LCD, 160 x 128 external display and 2-megapixel camera. It will also include an external microSD card slot as well as a standard 3.5mm headphone jack.
“All in all, the KickStart’s hardware is good. I was a bit worried the introduction of a flip phone might cheapen the solid reputation of the BlackBerry brand, but based on what I’ve seen of the KickStart so far I think it’s safe to lay that fear at rest.”
So far it sounds very promising, lets just hope that it hits T-Mobile at that rumored price of $49.95.
Via [CrackBerry]
Cowon’s P5 touchscreen media player teases us with haptic UI
Posted July 24, 2008 at 02:08 PM by Arnold Zafra
Section: Audio, Portable Audio, Video, Portable Video
Cowon has announced its latest touchscreen media player, the P5. Featuring a large 5-inch, 800x480 touchscreen display, the P5 boasts of haptic feedback mechanism which simulates a physical button through vibrations. The P5 runs on a fast 700MHz processor and can decode full DVD-resolution video in offline formats including AVI, DivX, MPEG-1/4, WMV and XviD. In addition, it also supports over-the-air TV with a built-in DMB tuner.
Other features of the Cowon P5 player include Bluetooth 2.0 connectivity, supports APE, FLAC, OGG, MP3 and WMA audio formats, FM radio, optional internet access through a USB-based Wi-Fi adapter and it gives out 14 full hours of music playing and 9 hours of video watching despite having a large display screen. The P5 comes with either 40GB, 60GB or 80GB’s of hard drive storage.
Slated for release on July 29 in the Korean market, the P5 will be available in a black, red or silver aluminum design. Unfortunately, no word yet on whether it will get an international release.
Via [electronista]
Samsung offers up the 8MP i8510 camera phone
Posted July 24, 2008 at 12:50 PM by Robert Nelson
Section: Communications, Cellphones, Mobile, Imaging, Digital Cameras
Samsung has officially unveiled their latest handset, the INNOV8 i8510 which is a slider-style model that packs an 8-megapixel camera. The camera, in addition to its high megapixel count also offers a xenon flash and can record video at up to 120 frames per second.
Aside from the camera, the phone itself has a decent set of specs which include a 2.8-inch 16 million color LCD, Wi-Fi, GPS, USB 2.0, Bluetooth 2.0 with A2DP support, FM Radio with RDS and an accelerometer.
The INNOV8 also offers 16GB of internal flash memory with an external memory card slot that has support for up to an additional 16GB of storage.
The i8510 is a GSM phone with HSDPA capability and is running Symbian OS V9.3, S60.
Sadly, at least for now the i8510 will only be available in Europe where it is expected to go on sale in August. As far as availability in other areas, Samsung has announced that it will also be available in “other markets” beginning in September. Of course no word yet on just what markets those will be, they have also not yet announced pricing.
Via [MobileBurn]
It’s a bird, it’s a plane, it’s … a cell phone Superhero?
Posted July 24, 2008 at 11:43 AM by Jodie Andrefski
Section: Communications, Accessories, Cellphones, Smartphones, Mobile, Computers, Security, Software / Applications, Gadgets / Other, Lifestyle, Miscellaneous, Web, Websites
So we’ve all been there. That rush of panic when we’ve lost (or at least momentarily think we’ve lost) our cell phone. When our phone contains lots of confidential data like bank info and emails, the panic level tends to rise even more quickly. Now we don’t have to just worry about Joe Finder using up our minutes, but now Joe Finder could access our bank accounts and read all those spicy emails we sent to Suzy at the office, uh-oh. This not even counting in the fact that the money spent on the phone is now down the drain.
Enter your possible savior, the cell phone Superhero! Nope, it’s not some guy sporting a cape and a mask (regardless of their logo), but a new service just launched yesterday in the US and Canada from YouGetItBack.com. Claiming to be able to protect your confidential data and aid in safely returning your gadget, YouGetItBack.com may just be a lost cell phone users new best friend. The way it works is that once a phone is lost or stolen, subscribers of the downloadable software simply go online and remotely lock their mobile phone. This will prevent anyone else from being able to make calls or access information on the device. Subscribers are also able to retrieve contacts from the phone via the internet.
The only call that is able to be made from a found phone is to the YouGetItBack service, which then works with the finder to get the device back to the owner. A finder is also able to log onto the company website to return the lost gadget. In the instance of the finder being Internet-illiterate (or so honest as to not even open the phone), the company sells adhesive security tags with unique device numbers and a toll-free return number. The tags, which start at under $10 for three years of use, can be used on any mobile gadget or even luggage.
YouGetItBack CEO Frank Hannigan believes that most people don’t have nefarious purposes upon finding a lost phone.
“Industry research indicates that most people want to do the right thing, And if you make it easy and risk free for them...they are more than happy to see that a found item is reunited with its owner.”
The YouGetItBack service costs $20 annually and works with many phones, though not all at this point. It should be noted that compatibility with the popular iPhone is still in the works. They also run a laptop service, but that one currently only works with Windows XP.
If the software and tags are unsuccessful, the lost device will be replaced. The company said that about 75% of it’s tagged and registered gadgets are returned to their rightful owners. At 20 bucks a year, especially depending on what you carry in your phone, this may just be a superhero you want on your side.
Read [CNet]
AT&T’s Navigator now available in 20 countries
Posted July 24, 2008 at 10:36 AM by Natesh Sood
Section: Communications, Cellphones, Cellular Providers, Smartphones, Mobile, Gadgets / Other, GPS/Navigation
If your AT&T smartphone has a built-in GPS chip, then you’ll be pleased to know that AT&T has extended it’s Navigator to global coverage.
What this means is that AT&T Navigator Global Edition comes with voice turn-by-turn directions, or text turn-by-turn directions. Both of these come in different language settings including English, German, Italian, or Spanish.
In addition, coverage is now in 20 countries, which includes many in western Europe, North American, U.S. Caribbean, and six Chinese cities - Beijing, Shanghai, Qingdao, Shenyang, Tianjin and Qinhuangdao. The amazing thing about this service, when you think about it, is that you can get directions to so many places, all on your cell phone, many standalone GPS units support only a few more maps than this service.
Also, the Navigator Global Edition sports a business finder, basically, that searches business matches in the US and overseas countries in it’s 19 million plus business and service database. Phones that are capable of this service include AT&T Tilt, BlackBerry 8800, BlackBerry 8820, BlackBerry Curve 8310, BlackBerry Pearl 8110, BlackJack II and MOTO Q9h.
The service costs $19.98, but it’s probably something worth getting if you travel a lot and don’t already have a stand-alone GPS.
Via [IntoMobile]
Ripple unveils the Atom-powered Mini Chocolate PC
Posted July 24, 2008 at 09:29 AM by Arnold Zafra
Section: Computers, Desktops
Korean PC manufacturer Ripple has released a new mini desktop PC, dubbed the Mini Chocolate PC. Ripple’s new mini computing machine is powered by a 1.6GHz Atom processor and is loaded with 2GB of RAM, four USB ports, two SATA sockets and an IDE socket. You can also plug-in additional optical drive in its extra slot.
Measuring only 15 x 210 x 80mm and looking a lot like the Mac Mini, Ripple’s Mini Chocolate PC is now available in Korea market for 209,000 Korean won (around $200 US). It may a good alternative to the Eee Box if you’re not an Asus fan, but over all nothing special considering the optical drive is an extra add-on and it is limited to just a wired Ethernet connection.
As of now, Ripple has not announced whether the Chocolate Mini will be available outside the Korean market.
Via [Engadget]
Samsung drops Series 7 Plasma HDTVs
Posted July 24, 2008 at 08:14 AM by Indraneel Purohit
Section: Video, HDTV
Samsung has dropped their new Series 7 plasma screens, pushing their “functional art” idealism even further. The new HDTV’s sport Samsung’s trademark Touch of Color bezel, in which red is directly infused into the normally boring black bezel. Most people, those who aren’t watching a bezel for entertainment, will be joyed at the 1 million to 1 contrast ratio and Ultra Filter Bright anti-glare system which keeps the image clear even in bright environments. A night calibration system is also present for those who enjoy watching in a darker environment.
The entire Series 7 also includes the InfoLink RSS service, which serves up USA Today content. Additionally, the TVs have a USB 2.0 port and can recognize and play MP3, JPEG, XviD, and MPEG-4 files. The DLNA-certified devices sport four HDMI 1.3 inputs, and all utilize gorgeous 1080p screens.
Available in August, the Series 7 displays will come in a 50-inch ($2799.99), 58-inch ($4499.99), and 63-inch ($5499.99) varieties.
Read [Business Wire]
New Wii, Fujifilm photo service lets Japanese gamers immortalize their Miis
Posted July 24, 2008 at 07:34 AM by NEWS
Section:
FROM GAMERTELL - Fujifilm and Nintendo have joined forces to bring an online photo service to Wii owners in Japan. Pictures are uploaded to the internet using an SD card that’s plugged into the Wii… MORE »
Hitachi’s new DZ-BD10H HD camcorder comes with a built-in Blu-ray recorder
Posted July 24, 2008 at 07:01 AM by Arnold Zafra
Section: Imaging, Camcorders
Hitachi has announced the new, full HD-capable DZ-BD10H camcorder for the Japanese market. This camcorder touts a built-in Blu-ray recorder as one of its major selling factors. But in addition, it also comes equipped with a 7-megapixel 1/2.7 CMOS sensor complemented by a 10x optical zoom. It has a 2.7-inch LCD screen, a 30GB hard drive, HDMI output, face detection functionality and a much needed SD/SDHC slot for storage expansion.
When recording video, users can select from the following five modes of the DZ-BD10H; HX (1920 x 1080) at 15Mbps, HF at 11Mbps, HS at 7.5Mbps, SX at 9Mbps and the LF at 6Mpbs. We also learned that the DZ-BD10H is a the successor of the DZ-BD9H camcorder which was released early this year.
The DZ-BD10H will set you back around $1,480, no word yet on whether or not Hitachi plans to release this camcorder for the international market.
Via [Akihabara News]
Interesting iPhone tip - play music and a game at the same time
Posted July 24, 2008 at 05:38 AM by NEWS
Section:
FROM APPLETELL - If you want to play your own music while you game on your iPhone, or just find that Super Monkey Ball music annoying, there is an answer. MORE »
Motorola “Ischia” makes it FCC appearance
Posted July 23, 2008 at 08:09 PM by Robert Nelson
Section: Communications, Cellphones, Mobile
Motorola’s latest clamshell has just been spotted on the FCC website, and this one is certainly nothing to get over-excited about. The low-end offering, which is being called “Ischia” is almost screaming why bother.
The Motorola “Ischia” offers the very basic Bluetooth and EDGE support, but lacks any GSM 850 support. While nothing official has been announced, this model may as well have pre-paid written on it.
Based on the image, it does appear to have a dedicated music, and email button, however that is far from enough to win any support over for this particular handset.
Read [FCC] Via [EngadgetMobile]
LG intro’s the fashion phone KF300 Wine in Japan, Europe
Posted July 23, 2008 at 05:46 PM by Arnold Zafra
Section: Communications, Cellphones, Mobile
Call it a fashion phone, but the LG KF300 Wine is certainly a worthy addition to LG’s current line-up. Touting 2 display screens, the LG KF300 features a 2.2-inch QVGA internal display and a 1.3-inch external screen with 128x160 pixel resolution.
Additionally, the tri-band LG KF30 mobile phone also boasts of network support for GSM/GPRS/EDGE, has a 2-megapixel camera with auto-focus, Bluetooth connectivity, 10MB of internal memory, FM radio and microSD memory card support.
The LG KF300 will be initially released in Japan and some parts of Europe. LG has not officially announced the release date or the pricing.
Via [IntoMobile]
Gateway outs the AMD-powered M-2408j, M-2410j laptops
Posted July 23, 2008 at 03:26 PM by Arnold Zafra
Section: Computers, Laptops
Gateway has launched two new laptops with some decent features and specs that seem worthy of their price tags. These new laptops are called the M-2408j and M-2410j and both are equipped with AMD’s Athlon 64 X2 QL-60 processors and boast of a 15.4-inch WXGA screen with a resolution of up to 1280 x 800.
In addition, both laptops also comes with Wi-Fi, a 1.3 megapixel web camera, HDMI output and 5-in-1 card reader. The M-2408j is loaded wit 2GB of RAM, a 250GB hard drive and a super multi-drive DVD. The higher-end M-2410j meanwhile boasts of 3GB memory and a 320GB hard drive.
The Gateway M2408j and M-2410j will both be released by end of July and retail for around $738 and $911 respectively.
Via [Akihabara News]
Verizon preparing to ditch the Treo 755p, lowers price to a Centro-like $99
Posted July 23, 2008 at 02:13 PM by Robert Nelson
Section: Communications, Cellphones, Cellular Providers, Smartphones, Mobile
Some will be sad to see it go, but at the same time many are wondering why its still around. According to a spokesperson from Verizon, the Palm Treo 755p will be phased out over the remainder of the year.
The first thing you will notice is the now much lower price, they have dropped it down to just $99, which of course comes along with a rebate and two-year contract. In addition Verizon will be removing the display units at many of their retails stores and also beginning to reduce the available inventory.
They were also quick to point out that while its being phased out the support will continue for those who either currently own, or purchase the device.
Personally, if I were looking for a Palm device at this point, this may be a good time to react, because as compared to the Centro, which is also $99, I would much rather have the Treo 755p.
Via [TreoCentral]
Gemei shows off new X780 PMP
Posted July 23, 2008 at 01:01 PM by Natesh Sood
Section: Audio, Portable Audio, Video, Portable Video
Gemei has a new PMP called the X780 which is similar to another one of their PMP’s called the X760. This one is the newer and more improved model, and comes with a few improved features.
One of the main features in Gemei’s PMP’s are the gaming-like qualities. Gemei’s previous PMP’s, the X900 and the X590 featured gaming emulators, but weren’t iPod Touch knockoffs at the time. However, with the X780, Gemei seems to hope to create something similar to the iPod Touch, and they sacrifice gaming support to achieve this. Some features include a 3-inch WQVGA touch screen, TV out and FM tuner.
The X780 also has support for a wide variety of media formats to include MP3, WMA, WAV, APE, FLAC, RM, RMVB, FLV, AVI, MPG, MPEG, DAT, ASF, WMV, VOB, 3PG, MP4, JPG, BMP, GIF, and PNG.
Unfortunately, no word on pricing or availability at this time.
Via [PMP Today]
MINI becomes the latest to go electric, hitting the US in 2009
Posted July 23, 2008 at 11:52 AM by Robert Nelson
Section: Gadgets / Other, Green, Transportation
It looks like the MINI will be the next automobile to go green here in the US. Thanks to some recent statements from MINI USA VP Jim McDowell it looks like they will be launching an electric MINI during the summer of 2009.
Of course at this time the details are still very light, and McDowell was not able to comment on just what type of battery will be powering these new models or whether they will be available for sale, lease or both. Its also still unclear if they will initially be released nationwide or just in California. MINI has promised more details before the end of the year.
Based on a company press release the initial release will consist of “several hundred Minis to experiment with electric drive systems.” This experiment is designed to see just how well they will do in the real world market.
Electric cars have been an interesting and growing trend and offer a seemingly dedicated following from those who own one. A release of an electric MINI should prove to be even more interesting considering how loyal many of the current MINI owners already are about their cars.
Via [AutoblogGreen]
Spore creator Will Wright to give opening keynote at San Diego Comic-Con 2008
Posted July 23, 2008 at 11:26 AM by NEWS
Section:
FROM GAMERTELL - Will Wright will talk Spore at this year’s San Diego Comic-con MORE »
Optimus Pultius is the Optimus Prime
Posted July 23, 2008 at 10:43 AM by Mark Rollins
Section: Computers, Peripherals, Mice / Keyboards
The Optimus Maximus is one of those gadgets that is so neat, that it can’t help but be all over gadget blogs. Gadgetell has covered it quite a few times, most recently in April, when it finally appeared for sale on ThinkGeek. I think we can all see why its such a hot topic, because not every keyboard has a fully animated display on each individual key.
Of course, the Optimus Maximus has a pretty el guapo price of around $1,589.99. The Optimus Mini, a smaller version of the Maximus that only has three animated display keys, will cost about $134.99. Now the Optimus family has a new member with the Optimus Pultius.
The Pultius has about fifteen keys, each one a unique display. This will come in handy when doing one-key functions, so it could be called an Optimus Mini-Plus. While the Maximus has two ports in the back, the Pultius has just one.
So far, there is no word on the price, but the expected availability date will either be late 2008 or early 2009.
Via [Gizmodo]
Delusions of Grandeur: Sony wants to sell 10 million more PS3s than PS2s
Posted July 23, 2008 at 10:02 AM by NEWS
Section:
FROM GAMERTELL - Sony’s game chief executive Kaz Harai wants to sell 150 million PS3s. That’s 10 million more PS3s than the number of ridiculously ubiquitous PS2s sold (approx. 140 million) in its nine-year existence so far… MORE »
BlackBerry handsets get Windows Live Messenger
Posted July 23, 2008 at 09:35 AM by Arnold Zafra
Section: Communications, Cellphones, Email / IM, Smartphones, Mobile
RIM maybe a tad late when it comes to bringing the Windows Live Messenger onto their BlackBerry handsets, but it still maybe worth the wait after all, and for some it will be a welcome addition to the BlackBerry’s already useful functionality. Utilizing push technology for receiving e-mails and messages, the Windows Live Messenger features custom status messages, log chats, ability to display pictures, use more than 60 emoticons, and can send and receive pictures and files.
With the simple Windows Live Messenger application now available for the BlackBerry, we could only hope that Microsoft and RIM would also release the Windows Live Hotmail sometime soon. The Windows Live Messenger can be downloaded into your BlackBerry devices by pointing your device’s web browser to http://www.blackberry.com/livemessenger/.
Via [ubergizmo] Via [ars technica]
Canon unveils the iVIS HF11, HG21 AVCHD camcorders
Posted July 23, 2008 at 08:20 AM by Arnold Zafra
Section: Imaging, Camcorders
Canon will soon be releasing two new AVCHD camcorders, the iVIS HF11 and iVIS HG21. Touting 3.31-megapixel CCD sensors, both cameras allow video recording in 5 different modes; MXP at 24Mbps, FXP at 17Mbps, XP+ at 12Mbps, SP at 7Mbps and LP at 5Mpbs. In addition, both cameras also come with a 2.7-inch LCD screen, SDHC media card support, DIGIC DV II technology, 12x optical zoom lens and a 1920x1080 full HD resolution.
What sets these two camcorders apart is the the inclusion of a 120GB HDD in the HG21, while only 32GB of built-in flash memory is loaded in the HF11. The HF11 is a follow-up to the Canon HF10 camcorder released earlier this year.
The iVIS HF11 and HG21 will be released in Japan sometime in August for an expected price of around $1,600.
Product [Canon] Product [Canon] Via [Akihabara News]
Toys R Us midnight Star Wars: Clone Wars event, life-size action figure giveaway
Posted July 23, 2008 at 07:34 AM by NEWS
Section:
FROM GAMERTELL - To promote the toys and collectibles tied into the upcoming aniamted Star Wars: The Clone Wars movie, Toys R Us is opening its doors at the earliest second as well as giving away fiive-feet tall action figures… MORE »
Minimise-Me Creates Customized Emoticons
Posted July 23, 2008 at 07:17 AM by Mark Rollins
Section: Communications, Email / IM
I like using Instant Messaging, but I rarely use the emoticons that are associated with them. Of course, we live an age where some refuse to communicate with anything but emoticons.
If you are one of those people, and are not satisfied with the Mr. Happy Face look of most emoticons, you can now program your own look. Thanks to a program known as Minimise-Me, a user can customize an emoticon with an interface that is very reminiscent of Nintendo’s Mii Creator.
Minimise-Me is located on an MSN UK website, and works with Windows Live Messenger. Not only can users create a custom emoticon, but they have access to emoticons that look like celebrities. I’m guessing that the Tom Cruise emoticon likes to jump up and down on a couch.
Once the 300KB installation is run, the new emoticon character will be in Windows Live Messenger dialog until you tell them to leave.
Man, is it just me, or is everything getting customized these days? Pretty soon, everyone will have their own unique font. Of course, I’m willing to bet good money that this is available already.
Read [MaximumPC]
Appletell Review: Speck PixelSkin case for the iPhone 3G
Posted July 23, 2008 at 06:03 AM by Robert Nelson
Section: Apple, Communications, Accessories, Cellphones, Smartphones, Mobile, Reviews
Developer: Speck Products Price: $24.95 Availability: Out now Pros: Easy to get on and off, soft and comfortable in your hand. Cons: Lack of any screen protector. Overall: Good case, but not my personal favorite.
Keep reading to check out the full review...
Sony Ericsson launches the W902, W595, W302 Walkman phones
Posted July 22, 2008 at 10:48 PM by Arnold Zafra
Section: Communications, Cellphones, Smartphones, Mobile, Imaging
Sony Ericsson continues to expand its line-up of Walkman phones with the announcement of the W902, W595 and W302. All of these Walkman phones feature Sony Ericsson’s music recognition application called TrackID, music and mood matching technology called SensMe and shake control for changing tracks with the flick of the user’s hand. Here are the things that you can expect from these new Walkman phones.
First up, we have the W902 which features the same sound quality as the W980 and is slated for release sometime in the near future and was also honored for its “best audio experience” by the German TESTfactory. ThW902 touts a 5-megapixel camera with video capturing and sharing capabilities, retro music navigation, a scratch-resistant 2.2-inch QVGA screen and lens which is said to be made of mineral glass and an 8GB Memory Stick Micro. The W902 supports UMTS/HSDPA 2100 and GSM/GPRS/EDGE 850/900/1800/1900 and will be available in Volcanic Black, Wine Red and Earth Green sometime in Q4 of 2008.
Next we have the W595 which is geared for those who like sharing music with their friends. This Walkman phone is equipped with stereo speakers, an in-box sharing jack for sharing music with a friend and a Bluetooth connectivity for throwing music into wireless speakers. The W595 comes with a 2.2-inch LCD screen, a 2GB Memory Stick Micro and slew of preloaded games to accompany users during otherwise boring moments. Like the W902, the W595 is also a UMTS/HSDPA 2100 and GSM/GPRS/EDGE 850/900/1800/1900 phone. It will be available in Active Blue, Cosmopolitan White, Jungle Grey and Lava Black sometime in Q4.
Finally we have the slim W302 Walkman phone featuring a 2-megapixel camera, FM radio, TrackID, Bluetooth Stereo and a 512MB Memory Stick Micro. The W302 sports a compact metal finish measuring only 10.5mm wide. The W302 supports GSM/GPRS/EDGE 850/900/1800/1900 networks. It will also be available by Q4 in Midnight Black or Sparkling White.
Read [Sony Ericsson]
Armpit TV, because all the other ad space was taken
Posted July 22, 2008 at 09:39 PM by Mark Rollins
Section: Video, Portable Video, Gadgets / Other, Miscellaneous
Picture this, you’re on a subway, and some guy standing next to you is gripping the hand rail has a terrible odor. Clearly, he did not apply his under-arm deodorant before he left for work. The smell of this man caught your attention, but the sight of him draws you in more as this man has a video display on his armpit.
Yes, this new concept method of advertising is actually being considered. Guess what kind of company wants to use it! That’s right, a deodorant company, specifically Right Guard.
This is one of those stories that is so zany, that it’s too easy to go off on. For example, what is going to be one the armpit screen, a deodorant commercial? I can just see a very attractive woman saying, “Hi, if you’re smelling this, than you should know that this is what you might be smelling like if you’re not using Right Guard”.
I have seen digital displays put on clothing before at trade shows and the like. I found them to be brash and annoying, with only enough memory to play a repetitive video file. However, as you can see in the photo, that woman looks interested. However, I think she’s more interested in the guy rather than the screen.
Via [ubergizmo]
Yahoo! calls Parlay to Icahn
Posted July 22, 2008 at 08:26 PM by Jodie Andrefski
Section: News, Web, Websites
We like you, we like you not. We like you, we like you not. It seems to have been a veritable rollercoaster ride for the past weeks as offers were tossed back and forth about as easily as not so cleverly veiled insults between Yahoo! and billionaire investor Carl Icahn. But it seems as though it may have finally come to some sort of resolution before the August 1 board meeting, as Yahoo! offered Icahn a minority position on the board (he and two other hand-picked candidates will join) in exchange for his agreement to pull back with his “toss the idiots” ideology, and back the rest of the existing board in the August 1 shareholder’s vote. So, it just may be a “keep your enemies close” move.
This kind of unexpected move did occur after influential mutual fund manager Bill Miller of Legg Mason said Friday that he and the 4.4 percent stake he controls would be backing the Yahoo board in the proxy battle.
Yahoo! just really seems to have a bee in their bonnet about Microsoft coming anywhere near them, regardless of the offer. When their unsolicited bid for $33 a share was offered up, (while yes, Yahoo! wanted $37), it was said that Microsoft “wasn’t serious”. Enter fuming shareholders who felt this was more about the board worrying about their tushes than anything else. Still entertaining to watch the circus from afar though.
Back to Yahoo! and Icahn. We now have a marriage of convenience when just a week or so ago they were tossing such zingers around about each other as this flowery compliment Carl Icahn sent to the Yahoo! shareholders about his now bed buddies:
“Over the years I have attempted to make changes at many companies but I have yet to see a company distort, omit and twist events and facts in the manner that Yahoo! has done in their press release issued Saturday night, July 12.”
While of course, not to be outdone, Yahoo! came back with just as much sugary-sweetness.
“How can Yahoo! stockholders trust Mr. Icahn to deliver what he claims he can deliver when his actions have been so contradictory -and when all he has delivered so far is a risky proposal of questionable value from his new friends at Microsoft?”
But, it looks like things are all better in Yahoo!-land. I can practically hear the birds chirping from here. I’m curious to see how it all goes down once the day to day operations actually begin with the new buddies in place. I’d also love to be a fly on the wall in Microsoft headquarters about now.
Read [Wired]
Dr. Dre ready to start shipping out his new headphones, the “Beats”
Posted July 22, 2008 at 07:14 PM by Natesh Sood
Section: Audio, Headphones
Back in January, duringCES 2008, Dr. Dre, an artist Jimmy Lovine, and Monster all teamed up to create a new type of headphone, marketed by Dr. Dre. These new headphones were designed by Dr. Dre and his goal was to create headphones with superior quality, “extreme clarity”, and crystal clear sounds.
With the help of Jimmy Lovine, Interscope Geffen A&M Chairman, and Monster, he created a pair of headphones, called Beats, with quality similar to what artists and producers use in recording studios. Being an artist and producer himself, he knows firsthand what recording studio headphones are like, and he wanted to give the public something similar. Here is what Dr. Dre said about recording studio headphones and what his goals were in his Beats.
“Artists and producers work hard in the studio perfecting their sound, but people can’t really hear it with normal headphones. Most headphones can’t handle the bass, the detail, the dynamics. Bottom line: the music doesn’t move you. With Beats, people are going to hear what the artists hear and listen to the music the way they should – the way I do.”
They were first on display at CES 2008, and are finally ready for retail. They are set to be on sale on July 25 in a few locations including Apple retail stores, and online stores, Best Buy, and Dr. Dre’s official Beats website. These headphones are of the utmost quality, and have noise reducing technology. Unfortunately, they will cost a pretty penny, as they are set to retail for $349.95. I’m sure many hardcore fans of Dr. Dre would consider purchasing these headphones.
Read [Business Wire]
Garmin announces the Nuvi 500, Nuvi 550
Posted July 22, 2008 at 06:08 PM by Natesh Sood
Section: Gadgets / Other, GPS/Navigation
Today, Garmin announced two new GPS units that are similar to each other called the Nuvi 500 and Nuvi 550. The interesting thing about these GPS units is that they are both capable of helping when driving, or when outdoors such as hiking. One of the main differences between the 500 and the 550 is that the 500 provides US only maps, while the 550 comes with maps of North America.
Both of these devices sport 3.5-inch screens, full street maps, waterproof touchscreens, as well as handy topology maps. It comes with a swift toggle system to switch between maps, and it also comes with a compass. The topology maps and the compass should both come in handy when outdoors. They also have support to load photos as well as sharing photos. It has something called Route 66 guide, which means it will display special POI’s or landmarks along highways.
Additionally, they come with the option to receive live traffic updates from Traffic Message Channel, or MSN Direct Information, for gas prices, traffic info, and other local information. These two GPS units are expected to start selling sometime in the near future. The 500 should sell for $500, and the 550 will cost the same.
Read [Garmin] [Garmin] Via [Electronista]
Lexmark intro’s six new all-in-one printers
Posted July 22, 2008 at 04:50 PM by Natesh Sood
Section: Peripherals, Printers / Scanners
Lexmark recently announced six new printer models in the Home & Student department, as well as the Small Office Pro department. Each of these printers are very nice, of high quality, and provide many services.
The first printer comes in the Home & Student series, and is called the X4950 printer. It comes with built-in 802.11g Wi-Fi, a 2.4-inch OLED screen, which shows menus, previews, and available options, it also scans and copies documents at a 4800 x 1200 resolution, outputs at 30 pages per minute in black, or 27 per minute in color. This printer is set to be available sometime in September for $150.
Next up we have the X6650, which comes with a slightly smaller display screen, measuring out at 2-inches, however, it comes with the ability to fax. Similarly to the X4950, it also has Wi-Fi. However, it prints at a slower rate, 25 pages per minute in black and 18 per minute in color.
The base unit in this series is the X5650, which comes with the same features as the X6650, but it doesn’t come with Wi-Fi. The X6650 will sell for $130, and the previously mentioned X5650 will retail for $100.
The next 3 printers are in the Office Pro series, and they are similar to the aforementioned printers, except they come with a few extra features. The X7675, is similar to the X4950, except it comes with Ethernet, faxing, and prints a bit faster at 32 pages per minute. It is set to cost $200.
The next printer, the X4975 loses the Ethernet and faxing support, but it can print on both sides, and only costs $180.
Last up we have the X6675, which prints a bit slower, at 25 pages per minute in black ink, and 18 in color. However, it does come with faxing and Wi Fi. The X6675 is set to retail for $150.
As you can see, each of these printers come with something unique, so it will be easy to choose the printer that fits your needs.
Via [Electronista]