Gadgetell Peep Show: VTech LS6117 cordless phone
Posted July 6, 2008 at 11:58 AM by Adam Berger
Section: Communications, Gadgets / Other, Features, Peep Shows
It’s not everyday that you use an cordless phone (remember what those were?), let alone see one that catches your eye. For those of you who still actually have a landline, you might want to consider upgrading your handsets to this sleek new VTech model. It sports both a great design, the most advanced technology, and the added appeal of customization.
The VTech LS6117 is inspired by skateboard and snowboard designs and can be customized to fit every season. Operating on DECT 6.0 technology for crystal-clear conversations, the LS6117 includes interchangeable graphic inserts for customizing the back plate, and the option to create and print your own artwork online.
Some of the key features are: DECT 6.0, 50 calls Caller ID/call waiting, digital security so people can’t drop in on your calls, and it won’t interrupt/interfere with your WiFi signal. It also has a 50 name/number phonebook, any key answer, is a qualified Energy Star product,
The VTech LS6117 is now available with a MSRP of $44.95.
Be famous! (aka: blog for Gadgetell)
Posted July 6, 2008 at 09:33 AM by Adam Berger
Section: Features, Announcements
We are looking for a few new writers and figured that there may be no better place to look for gear-heads than on Gadgetell itself. With our recent rapid growth we are in need of additional writers to provide regular, high quality, content for the site. To make the cut you must:
have a strong pulse on the consumer electronics/tech industry.
possess unique/creative writing style.
be a wizard in the English language (spelling, grammar, sentence structure).
be able to contribute a minimum of 20 articles (200-400 words per article) per month.
stay up to date on current news stories and have background knowledge on prior product launches.
be willing to take an active role in the site including responding to comments and reacting to readers needs and hot topics.
Currently we are looking for writer to fill the following time slots (times in EST): weekends (top priority), weekdays 4am-12pm, and weekdays 12pm-8pm. We do not expect you to be on for the full shift, though you would be expect to submit 95% of your content during that time and that content should be timely.
To be considered contact us with “Gadgetell Blogger” in the subject at Jobs@Dabbledoo.com: please include 2-3 links to previous work (related to consumer electronics) as well as your resume – attachments will not be opened.
MPAA approves “Military Strength” anti-piracy encryption technology
Posted July 5, 2008 at 07:57 PM by Jodie Andrefski
Section: Video, Content, Computers, Security, Software / Applications, Web, Downloads, Web Apps, Websites, Online Music/Video
In an attempt to be more proactive rather than simply reactive, the MPAA has recently approved the DreamStream system and its 2048-bit “military strength” anti-piracy encryption technology to protect content streamed to viewers online.
First introduced to the MPAA in March of 2008 by Laura Tunberg, MGM’s former vice president of intellectual property enforcement, it was since reviewed by the MPAA and found it to be a viable means for securing digital content. Chief development officer for DreamStream, Ulf Diebel, is excited by this acknowledgment of their product.
“We are very excited to have the MPAA stand behind our technology.”
Diebel also went on to say that, “their recommendation is not something that Hollywood will take lightly.” Diebel makes some bold claims. He says that with DreamStream, digital content can finally be distributed without fear of piracy. That in fact, they make it impossible for movies to be digitally pirated. He says their technology can give back both property rights as well as the commercial success of music and video recordings with a solution “that benefits both producers and consumers.” Not so sure all those folks busy pirating would agree with that statement.
What makes DreamStream so different from other systems out there is that it operates via online streaming instead of file downloads. Because of this, any content that is purchased can’t be stored on a users’ hard disk, which takes away the opportunity to copy or redistribute files. And since the files don’t have to be downloaded, the system is able to transmit media files a significantly higher qualities than anything currently being offered by DS competitors. For example, even with only a 4Mbps Internet connection, Dreamstream’s system can provide HD quality content to consumers. And because it is streaming digital, there is no download or processing delays.
“Pirates are not just found in the movies anymore. Today’s pirate is a twelve-year-old sitting on a couch in Hong Kong. Or, worse yet, an unmanned fleet of Xbox’s all aimed at your server. Hacker attempts are no longer measured in how many per day but how many per second. It is just a matter of time until the pirate comes aboard your ship and breaks into the treasure chest. Unless they cannot see the ship. With DreamStream, your digital information is invisible. Your treasure chest is secured, and the key to it is encrypted with a 2048 bit encryption. Yes, a true digital fortress. A fortress that fits on a very small chip or hard drive!”
Although DreamStream brags that its unpublished encryption has never been compromised by hackers or digital pirates, I really don’t see that this is going to be a forever “brag card.” Give it some time, and that twelve-year-old on his couch will find a way to hack the code. These things always have a workaround and to think otherwise is simply being naive.
Read [PRWeb]
Asus 16GB Eee PC 900 now available
Posted July 5, 2008 at 04:29 PM by Robert Nelson
Section: Computers, Mobile Computers, Laptops
Similar to the recent announcement of the Eee PC 904, this has come with little excitement. However the Eee PC 900 is now available for pre-order online.
The Eee PC 900 features the 8.9-inch display, an Intel Celeron 900Mhz processor, 1GB of RAM and 16GB SSD. The 900 also includes the now standard Eee PC features which include a 1.3-megapixel webcam, built-in card reader and Wi-Fi.
The Eee PC 900 is available in black or white and offers the option to have either Linux or Windows XP installed. The Linux version is priced at $399 and the Windows XP version is $449.
Product [Excaliber PC] Via [jkkmobile]
Use Lazy Brains to control videogame avatars with your mind
Posted July 5, 2008 at 02:08 PM by NEWS
Section:
FROM GAMERTELL - A group of Drexel students has put together a PC game ith special headgear that uses the brain’s concentration levels to move the avatar. MORE »
Leaked images, specs: Sony Ericsson W595 “Linda”
Posted July 5, 2008 at 12:50 PM by Robert Nelson
Section: Communications, Cellphones, Cellular Providers, Mobile
Another newly leaked Sony Ericsson handset, this time it is the successor to the W580, which is dubbed the W595 and comes with a codename of Linda has just surfaced courtesy of Le Journal du Geek.
The W595 is a slider style Walkman handset and will feature an FM radio, the Walkman 3 player and will be running the A2 software platform. Similar to some other recent Sony Ericsson handsets the W595 will include Google Maps pre-installed and also have a 3-dimensional accelerometer.
While SE has been quite on the release date for the W595, it is rumored to be announced during July. Aside from the model pictured, it is also expected that it will be available in a red and white colored model.
Read [Le Journal du Geek] Via [se-nse]
Asus, without fanfare, officially announces the Eee PC 904
Posted July 5, 2008 at 11:46 AM by Robert Nelson
Section: Computers, Mobile Computers, Laptops
Asus has officially unveiled their latest netbook in the Eee PC lineup, the Eee PC 904, however although it is expected to be available soon, they have not announced a specific date.
The 904, seems at least to me, just another small notebook to wear the Eee brand. The specs are pretty much what we have been seeing before and nothing really stands out all that much. The Eee PC 904 will feature an 8.9-inch display with a 1024 x 600 resolution, 900MHz Celeron M processor, 1GB of RAM, 80GB hard drive and running Windows XP.
There is one nicer feature on the 904, and that is the keyboard, which is the slightly larger layout that is taken from the Eee PC 1000.
The Eee PC 904 will retail for £269 (around $535 US) and will be available in mid-July.
Via [TechRadar]
The 8-bit watch; something that can only be loved by a geek
Posted July 5, 2008 at 10:32 AM by Robert Nelson
Section: Gadgets / Other, Miscellaneous
The retro styled 8-bit graphic watch could perhaps be a watch only for the true geek, well that is if they are not already wearing something with a calculator on their wrist.
The retro watch is dubbed the Icon Watch, and was originally designed back in 2005 by a Japanese design firm, however it just recently became available for purchase. The Icon Watch has a polyurethane band, ABS and stainless steel body and is available in black or white.
While exact time would be a difficult thing to offer from this watch it does have a certain appeal to it. I was actually considering a purchase, and then I saw that it was retailing for $75. Not to mention, thanks to always carrying a cellphone with the time on it, I have not worn a watch regularly for a few years now.
Product [MoMA] Via [Oh! Gizmo]
Run Android on your Nokia N810 in three easy steps
Posted July 5, 2008 at 09:24 AM by Robert Nelson
Section: Computers, Mobile Computers, Software / Applications
Android first sprung up on the Nokia N810 internet tablet a few months back, however the install process was a little more challenging. Well as technology goes, things generally have a way of becoming easier with some time and that certainly applies to completing the Android installation process on the N810.
Now its as simple as three easy steps.
1. Download “android.img.bz2” to the memory card in your tablet. That file can be found here or here.
2. Download and install the “android-installer.deb” file. That can be found here or here.
3. Reboot your N810.
Once the reboot is complete, you will have the ability to run and check out Android. The start up for Android can be found in the extra’s menu.
Almost makes me wish I had an N810 to check it out. That said, we have not tested this personally, so I would recommend any important files be backed up first, just in case.
Via [Mobile Computer]
HP offers free online photography classes
Posted July 5, 2008 at 08:18 AM by Jodie Andrefski
Section: Computers, Software / Applications, Imaging, Accessories, Web, Downloads, Websites
For many people just getting into digital photography, the world of photo editing can seem a tad overwhelming. Hewlett Packard offers some help in the foray through the forest of editing your precious snapshots and helping you turn them into all they can be, even if it didn’t happen exactly the way you wanted right from the camera.
The Adobe Photoshop program, a perennial favorite among many photographers is rather tried and true. It’s used by everyone from magazine layout staff and professionals to the Joe Schmoe who captured his son playing flag football at the weekend game. However, if you are first wading into the waters of photo editing...granted, the program may seem a little daunting, especially for those not familiar with any kind of editing or publishing software.
The capabilities of Photoshop are amazingly wide-ranged. You can do the simple crop/adjust color/brightness/contrast etc, all the way to applying different photo filters to your pictures after you shoot them. Layer photos, create collages, Photoshop even offers something called “PS Actions” which is just full of nifty little photo tricks. And the best thing about taking the free online course is that you don’t have to figure out all the buttons on your own. You have an instructor walking you through it showing you how to use the program’s features.
Right now, HP is offering a totally free class on Adobe Photoshop. Enrollment runs from July 4 through July 31, and the class ends August 8, 2008. Previous students ranked the course 4 out of 5 stars. You can sign up for the course by going to the HP website.
Read [HP]
Gigabyte releases the M912V Atom-powered notebook
Posted July 5, 2008 at 07:03 AM by Arnold Zafra
Section: Computers, Mobile Computers, Laptops
Gigabyte has just released the M912V notebook in Taiwan. This tablet style notebook features a touch sensitive swivel LCD panel with a 1280x768 resolution, a 160GB 2.5-inch SATA hard drive,1GB of RAM, an express card slot, a 1.3-megapixel webcam, Wi-Fi, and even has an option for built-in HSDPA support.
The M912V would have been a good competitor to most of the netbooks around if not for its high price. This M912V is expected to retail for around $890 and it will come pre-installed with Windows Vista. Unfortunately for us, there are no words yet as to whether the M912V would be released internationally.
Via [Akihabara News]
Sharp flaunts 26-inch solar-powered LCD TV prototype
Posted July 4, 2008 at 11:03 PM by Leo Blanco
Section: Video, HDTV, Gadgets / Other, Green, Household
Sharp is harnessing the power of the sun to create an energy-efficient and environment-friendly LCD TV. In the forthcoming G8 Summit, the Japanese TV manufacturer will show off a prototype of its 26-inch LCD TV using solar panel as its main source of energy.
Sharp claims this new technology reduces annual energy consumption by about 75% compared to the existing 26-inch LCD TVs available in the market today. Moreover, the new triple-junction thin-film solar module technology is free of toxic materials. Not to mention that using solar panel reduces fossil fuel consumption.
While the company’s main objective is to provide TV to approximately 6 billion people on earth with scarce or no electricity, this prototype is also relevant to all of us in the face of mounting increase in gas prices and our fondness for supporting “green” products.
No word yet on the availability or pricing of this solar-powered LCD TV. I’m hoping this socially responsible product will be affordable to the developing countries considering its objective.
Via [CrunchGear]
In case of emergency, just send a text
Posted July 4, 2008 at 09:58 PM by Mark Rollins
Section: Communications, Cellphones, Email / IM, Mobile
Recently, we reported on how the OpenTable Beta version has made it possible to set up a reservation at your nearest restaurant, however it would appear that restaurant reservations aren’t the only thing that have been updated for mobile technology.
Police departments in Boston, Cincinnati, and 100 other communities have adopted a text message tip-line. So if someone sees a crime being committed, all it would take is a dropped line to alert the authorities.
So far, this new department system has produced “great drug information, specific times, dates, names of suspects, locations, pick-up times, and license plate numbers”.
Boston Police Crime Stoppers commander Michael Charbonnier has been quoted saying “it’s obvious that the future of communication is texting.” I think this man has a point, but I believe that texting is already in our present. After all, some of these teenagers can text-type with one hand faster than I can type with two.
In other words, I think it is high time that a system like this for text-messaging was established for law enforcement. I mean, all it would take some anonymous text tip such as “drugs n car, lic plate 456 AUJ” to bring someone to justice.
Unfortunately, the cops on the other end might not be able to read text-speech that many of these teens are using these days.
Via [Engadget]
Google continues to fire up the masses, this time with “Street View”
Posted July 4, 2008 at 08:42 PM by Jodie Andrefski
Section: Gadgets / Other, GPS/Navigation, Lifestyle, Miscellaneous, Imaging, Web, Websites, Online Music/Video, Google
Google is getting ready to launch their Street View technology in the UK, and it isn’t being met with open arms. Although the mapping tool is already in place in some major US cities, folks in the UK are protesting the implementation on their turf. Street View works by taking photos of, logically enough, streets to match maps. However the photos also include any people on those streets. This is where the problems come in for the UK folk. They feel this is a blatant disregard for privacy; and that permission should be granted by any individual photographed since the pictures are being used in a commercial regard.
Personally, I don’t see how Google is getting away with this. As a freelance photographer myself, I know that any photographs that I take (even in a public setting) must have release forms signed by each recognizable person in the photo, if I am to be using them in any way for profit. (They even consider a person to be “recognizable” if the photo only shows the back of them for the record.) Apparently, Privacy International, a UK rights group, agrees. They believe the technology clearly breaks data protection laws.
According to Simon Davis of the group, “In our view they need a person’s consent if they make use of a person’s face for commercial ends”.
Google has already had people in the United States complaining about their images being used as well. Google says they did remove the photos upon written request. (Amazing that they need to be asked to remove them, yet not to take them). Google also said they have begun to trial “face blurring technology”, by using an algorithm that detects human faces in photographs. However, Privacy International is having a hard time believing too much in this technology. They’ve written and asked for some more technical information on the system, and say if they don’t hear back in seven days they will ask the UK Commissioner to block the Street View tool from being used. The only response they’ve received to date from Google is a snide comment to look more closely at their blogs and that it isn’t ready to be deployed yet.
Google, on the other hand, maintains that they are complying with all local laws. Too bad people aren’t really keen on believing every word flowing out of Google’s mouth these days regarding protecting privacy. Let’s review, we had the promise made by Google to the FTC during the Doubleclick acquisition that “crumbling cookies” would be developed. No proof that this has happened yet. Then we had them promise a “privacy dashboard” to help consumers understand the functionality of their user settings in response to concerns expressed at the time of the 2007 internet privacy rankings. Nope. Hasn’t shown up either. And last, the latest fiasco with YouTube, where Google may be handing over the personal information of anyone that viewed any videos on the YouTube site to Viacom. Granted, this was due to a recent judge ruling; but members are certainly not taking this invasion well either.
It seems for all of Google wanting to claim being “for the planet” as of late, it’s a lot of “for the Google.”
Via [BBCNews]
Flashlight with built-in video camera now in available Japan
Posted July 4, 2008 at 07:33 PM by Leo Blanco
Section: Gadgets / Other, Miscellaneous, Imaging, Camcorders
A Japanese accessory manufacturer has added a unique twist on an ordinary household gadget, the flashlight. They have added a 300,000 pixel CMOS camera and microphone. Carrot Systems created this so-called AD-1500 flashlight to enable security personnel and crime fighters to record the actual events as they happen.
All activities are recorded in MP4 format and it automatically switches to infra-red mode when used at night or in dark areas. The AD-1500 can only cover a distance of up to 4 meters but I think this is enough to capture evidence and actual events in real time. However, internal memory is limited to only 128MB.
This innovative approach to ordinary gadget makes sense. It would be nice though if this could automatically stream the footage online for archiving purposes. Well, that’s looking forward I guess.
Unfortunately, its price of approximately $800 limits its potential, at least for the everyday consumer.
Via [CrunchGear]
Firefox claims a 19% market share in the browser wars
Posted July 4, 2008 at 06:26 PM by Robert Nelson
Section: Web, Downloads, Web Browsers
Mozilla is growing, and it seems that in addition to the recent world record, which was set for the software downloads in a 24 hour time period, they have also risen to 19.03% of the market share. Mozilla saw an increase from 18.41% up to 19.03% from the end of May to the end of June.
Of course, Firefox may be seeing an increase, which is at least partially due to the recent release of Firefox 3, but Internet Explorer still remains on top with a whopping 73.01%.
On the other hand, some are saying that because of the auto-update features within Firefox, that those users are amongst the most users with up to date versions of their browser installed. Firefox was noted as having 83% of their users with an up to date software version, as compared to just 63.3% of Safari users, 56.1% of Opera users and IE having just 47.6% of users with the latest and most stable version.
Read [Yahoo! News]
So Hot Right Now: Top 10 Gadgetell posts for the week of June 29, 2008
Posted July 4, 2008 at 05:10 PM by NEWS
Section:
Haven’t caught all of the Gadgetell news this week? Here’s your chance to catch up on this week’s top 10 articles!
Slimbus: The future of public transportation“ With the absurd increase in gasoline prices almost every week, more and more people will be forced to use buses and other modes of public transportation. Now, here is a very interesting futuristic concept – the Slimbus. Intended for…” MORE »The touchscreen Motorola Blaze for Verizon shows its face“ The touchscreen based devices just keep coming, and seem to be getting more and more interesting. The latest to hit the open, or at least leaked status is the Motorola Blaze, which seems to be a mix-match…” MORE »Asus to introduce the Eee PC 904, 905?“ Asus has yet to even get the Eee PC 901 or the 1000H into the US market, however the latest rumor has them working on getting an Eee PC 904 and 905 ready. The new 904 and…” MORE »BlackBerry Bold for Rogers gets a release date“ The BlackBerry Bold is having it’s trouble with a US release date, AT&T has been rumored to have pushed it’s launch into August, but it is right on track with…” MORE »Creative’s Wi-Fi enabled Zen X-Fi PMP revealed?“ Still missing is the official announcement from Creative, however epiZENter is claiming the above picture of the Creative ZEN X-Fi is the real deal. Based on the image, all we can do is hope that it really is true,…” MORE »Leaked training documents for Sprint’s Treo 800w“ Yet another leak surrounding the upcoming Treo 800w for Sprint. This time thankfully its not some more blurry camera phone style images, but instead something much more useful, what appears to be the official training…” MORE »Blackberry Thunder now officially called Blackberry 9500“ The Blackberry Thunder which we reported before as RIM’s newest Blackberry device now has an official name, the Blackberry 9500. And like we told you, it shall be officially carried with Verizon as a lifetime exclusive offering…” MORE »Verizon’s leaked release schedule for 2008“ Earlier today we saw what AT&T has in store for use device-wise for the remainder of 2008 and now it is Verizon’s turn, and it looks just as exciting as the AT&T lineup. Beginning in August, it looks like we can expect…” MORE »Princeton will soon offer Kindle edition textbooks“ Princeton University has become the latest to announce that they have plans to begin offering Kindle editions of their textbooks. Joining other universities such as Yale, Oxford, and UC Berkeley the Princeton textbooks will be available beginning in the fall semester. While…” MORE »Nikon D3, D300 see firmware fixes“ Good news for those not quite ready to take the plunge to purchase the new Nikon D700, but tiring of some of the problems they may have been experiencing with their D3 or D300; Nikon has made some more adjustments.…” MORE »
YouTube plus stupid or criminal acts is not a good combination, or is it?
Posted July 4, 2008 at 04:07 PM by Robert Nelson
Section: News, Web, Websites, Online Music/Video
Keeping in mind that there are just some things that you should not do. Take “throwing a baby” for example, but assuming you felt the need to do such a crazy thing, then why would you feel the need to not only record it, but also post the video to a popular site as YouTube. Its almost like asking to get in trouble, isn’t it?
The latest teen did just that, he had his friend film himself throwing a baby, well not actually throwing, but sort of launching it. The 16-year old placed the baby on a large inflatable pillow and then jumped on it to send the baby flying across the room. The teens then posted the video online and it was later found by one of the students teachers, who promptly called the police. The 16-year old has since been charged with felony cruelty to a child, and according to Sheriff Harold Breeden;
“It’s not going to be funny when the judge gets through with him.”
Could not have said it any better myself, lets just hope the judge does not go easy, because it was also noted that this particular teen “has never been in trouble before.”
While some people feel that YouTube is a least partially responsible for these acts, personally I am glad YouTube and similar site are around. Its hard to imagine that someone who is dumb enough to do something like this would have not done it in the first place, at least with sites like YouTube and the Internet in general it makes it a little easier on law enforcements ability to catch these stupid criminals.
As expected this video has since been removed from YouTube, but if you click the read link below, you can see the original news clip that covered this story. I will however caution you, its not pleasant to watch.
Cloaking - It’s not just for Harry Potter anymore
Posted July 4, 2008 at 02:58 PM by Jodie Andrefski
Section: Gadgets / Other, Miscellaneous, Imaging
Those that have seen the Harry Potter movies may remember his magic cloak that enabled him to be invisible from those around him. Sounds a bit fantastical and far-fetched doesn’t it? Well, the future may be closer than you think.
The ability to hide something from sight, is usually accomplished by using what is known as a superlens. This type of lens contains a negative refraction index, the “refraction” part obviously meaning bending. In this case it allows it to bend electromagnetic waves back upon themselves. So, as a result, the object appears “invisible.” Voila! No bulky cloak even needed.
Although superlensing isn’t exactly yet feasible for making something huge like a military warship invisible, there is still promise for more standard large objects. This is being done using copper-based meta-materials to create a type of cloaking cylinder. Work is also being done on the lenses by Graeme Millton, of the University of Utah, who is currently working in mathematical models for the superlenses.
“We’ve seen it numerically—not in practice, but we’ve got a theoretical proof that collections of particles become invisible,” said Milton of their superlens work.
The meta-material cylinder which is being worked on at Duke University is different from the lens at Utah in that it causes microwaves to be bent around itself rather than reflected. Its cylinder has patterns invisible to the naked eye on its surface, which act to redirect the waves striking it, instead of allowing them to bounce off.
The Duke cylinder still needs work because there is still distortion which is visible in microwave images, however there are clearly implications for some real applications. Initiate...Stealth Mode.
Via [DailyTech]
Ask.com finalizes Dictionary.com purchase
Posted July 4, 2008 at 01:46 PM by Robert Nelson
Section: Web, Websites
With the deal closed on the Dictionary.com purchase, Ask.com has now become, at least according to comScore, the ninth-largest web property. The all-cash deal originally began back in mid-May and had Ask.com purchasing Lexico Publishing Group LLC. The web properties that were included were Dictionary.com, Thesaurus.com and Reference.com.
Ask.com is reporting that this will give them an increase of around 15 million additional users on a month basis, which would put them up to a monthly audience of around 145 million. Terms of the acquisition, such as how much was paid were not disclosed.
Read [Reuters]
Maverick Software has your iPhone and iPod Touch games
Posted July 4, 2008 at 01:00 PM by NEWS
Section:
FROM APPLETELL - Maverick Software has announced its line of iPhone and iPod Touch games that will be available through Apple’s App Store. All these games are built from the ground up and are fully native to the iPod Touch and iPhone. With four new games, this company really wants to make an… MORE »
Rumor: BlackBerry Kickstart to land with T-Mobile for $49.99?
Posted July 4, 2008 at 12:32 PM by Robert Nelson
Section: Communications, Cellphones, Cellular Providers, Smartphones, Mobile
Some more information has been leaking about in regards to the upcoming BlackBerry Kickstart and thankfully this time it was not another set of blurry images. Instead its some speculation based on just how much RIM is planning to charge for this little clamshell BlackBerry.
We have already heard that it was headed to T-Mobile and it looks like it will land there in September, but the latest information is calling for this to be a very affordable handset. Coming in at just $49.99 with a two-year agreement. Which assuming this is accurate would have it even less expensive than the popular and low-cost Palm Centro. At that price I think that RIM could have a winner on their hands.
Via [CrackBerry] Image [http://blog.berryshack.com/blog/content/new-leaked-blackberry-kickstart-pictures]
Verizon’s new World phone, the Motorola Napoleon Q9 shows its face
Posted July 4, 2008 at 11:29 AM by Robert Nelson
Section: Communications, Cellphones, Cellular Providers, Smartphones, Mobile
It looks like Verizon will be introducing a third variety in their Q9 lineup, and as of now its being code named “Napoleon.” It does however have something special in store for worldwide business travelers as it will not only offer CDMA EV-DO Rev. A support but it will also include full GSM support, meaning you can take and use this worldwide.
The Q9 Napoleon will be running Windows Mobile 6.1 and feature a 320 x 240 display, 2-megapixel camera with flash, Wi-Fi, stereo speakers and ship with a 1500mAh battery. In addition to the added support on the inside, the new world edition Q9 has also gotten a little face lift with a new shiny bezel around the edges.
Also, just good measure they have included a fingerprint scanner on the back, I guess when traveling worldwide you should never have your data unsecured.
As of now, no pricing or release information has been let loose, but as usual we will keep you posted when we find something out.
Via [BGR]
Rumor: Archos new 6th gen 3G PMP coming soon?
Posted July 4, 2008 at 10:17 AM by Natesh Sood
Section: Audio, Portable Audio, Video, Portable Video
There have been some invitations flying around from the good guys at Archos, inviting websites to their press event on July 10 in London. On the invitation, it says that there will be an “exciting announcement.” Such a phrase has led to the reports of a new Archos 6th generation portable media player with 3G connectivity. Around this same time last year, Archos has announced the availability of its 5th generation of players.
If Archos does announce a new PMP with 3G connectivity, it will certainly give them an edge in the market, as they can compete with Apple and Microsoft for the top spot. UK’s managing director of Archos, Tony Limrick, is set to deliver the good news. Hopefully, Archos does announce new 3G capable PMP’s as that would also surely please many current Archos fans. Stay tuned for more information as it becomes available.
Read [DAPreview] Via [PMP Today]
Judge orders YouTube to hand user histories over to Viacom
Posted July 4, 2008 at 08:51 AM by Jodie Andrefski
Section: Web, Downloads, Websites, Online Music/Video, Google
Your right to privacy is no longer as private as you once thought or hoped. By court order, Google is being forced to hand over all the records of every video watched by YouTube users. This information will include users’ names as well as IP addresses, and the request has Google lawyers arguing invasion of privacy. The judge in his ruling, however, found this argument “speculative” and ordered them to turn over the logs on a set of four terabyte hard drives.
The purpose behind the lawsuit is that Viacom intends to prove that infringing material is more prominent than user-created videos. This would most likely increase Google’s liability if they are found guilty of contributory infringement. The suit was originally filed in March of 2007, with Viacom seeking over $1 billion in damages. Google tried to argue that the law provides a “safe harbor for online services so long as they comply with copyright take-down requests.” Apparently Judge Louis L. Stanton, the senior judge on the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York, who issued the opinion and order, wasn’t buying it, since the order also requires Google to supply copies of any video that was taken down for any reason.
The judge actually turned Google’s own defense of its data retention policies, that IP addresses of computers aren’t personally revealing in and of themselves, against it to justify the log dump. As expected, the Electronic Frontier Foundation is already up in arms, loudly proclaiming the order a violation of the Video Privacy Protection act that “threatens to expose deeply private information.”
It seems to me that Viacom is asking for way more information than needed to prove infringement. And if they do get their hands on all that user information like the are asking for, the whole thing just screams lawsuits. Lawsuits by Viacom against individual users, and lawsuits by users against Google. I think with this specific court order, Judge Stanton has opened one heck of a Pandora’s box.
Via [Wired]
eMachines announces new back-to-school desktop deals
Posted July 4, 2008 at 07:49 AM by Natesh Sood
Section: Computers, Desktops, Peripherals, Displays
eMachines is looking to get their desktops popular again by announcing a few new desktops, just in time for the new school year. eMachines has announced a trio of new desktops with widescreen LCD displays under the model numbers—T3656, T5274 and W3653.
Each of these PC’s come with similar specs including a 15-in-1 media card reader, six USB ports, Microsoft Works 9.0, Windows Vista with SP1, a SuperMulti DVD drive and 6 channel HD audio with amplified stereo speakers.
The T3656 features an Intel Celeron processor, 1GB RAM, a 160GB hard drive and retails for $299.99. The T5274 runs on an Intel Pentium Dual-Core processor, has 2GB RAM, a 320GB hard drive and retails for $399.99. Finally, the W3653, comes with a 17-inch widescreen LCD display, runs on Intel Celeron Dual-Core processor, 1GB RAM, a 320GB hard drive and retails for $498.
In addition to the PC’s, eMachines has also introduces two new monitors, a 17 and 19-inch LCD. The 17-inch LCD display costs $189.99 and offers a 1440 x 900 resolution, 600:1 contrast ratio, and 8ms response time. The 19-inch LCD display costs $209.99, and has 720p High-Definition support, an 800:1 contrast ratio, 1440 x 900 resolution and a 5ms response time. Unfortunately, no word on exact shipping dates as of now, however, expect these to start shipping sometime in August, before school starts.
Read [eMachines]
Disney’s new Home of the Future
Posted July 4, 2008 at 06:34 AM by Mark Rollins
Section: Audio, Video, Communications, Computers, Gadgets / Other, Lifestyle
Some of you might remember back when Disneyland had their “House of the Future”. I’m guessing it was located in Tomorrowland, and it featured such futuristic advances like speakerphones, big screen TVs, and microwave ovens. Most homes of the present have these devices now, but during the ten year period that the exhibit was open (1957-1967), this was the future.
Disneyland has just recently opened their new house of the future, otherwise known as the Innovative Dream Home. The 5,000-square-foot house has been built as a collaborated effort with HP, Microsoft, and LifeІware. Visitors can watch the everyday adventures of the fictional Elias family with their more modern advancements.
Some of Microsoft’s contributions include the ever-so-popular Surface, the Home Server, but it also has some advancements we are all familiar with, such as Vista, the Zune, and even the Xbox 360.
Other Microsoft donations include the Magic Mirror, a mirror that can somehow project different clothes, accessories, and hairstyles on the person’s image. It can somehow change to the contours of each family members’ body, and move as the person moves.
The Kitchen of Your Dreams can recognize whatever ingredients you put on your counter, and can even suggest recipes.
What really screams Disney is the Story Time, a child’s room that becomes a fairy land. If someone simply reads a story, it sets off lights, sounds, colors, and video, transforming an ordinary story time into a magical multimedia experience.
HP has gracefully donated the Touchsmart computer, as well as the Mediasmart TV. LifeІware has given the RFID technology and media center solutions.
Let’s hope that the Innovations Dream Home doesn’t become out of date soon.
Via [Gizmodo]
Samsung, Bell Mobility bringing the Instinct to Canada
Posted July 4, 2008 at 12:13 AM by Robert Nelson
Section: Communications, Cellphones, Cellular Providers, Smartphones, Mobile
The Samsung Instinct has been a hot selling handset here in the US, and it would seem that it would only be smart to take advantage of that, and do it quickly. Bell Mobility and Samsung have just announced that the Instinct will be available in Canada beginning August 8.
The features are expected to be the same as the currently available Sprint version, of course, the UI will most likely be just a little less Sprint like. The Instinct is expected to retail for $149.95 with a three-year agreement and also be available for a no commitment price of $449.95.
Also in non-Canadian specific Instinct related news, it seems you can also now follow along with the Instinct on Twitter.
Via [mobilesyrup]
Leadtek intro’s the WinFast ExDTV2300 H TV capture card
Posted July 3, 2008 at 11:06 PM by Mark Rollins
Section: Video, Content, Video Providers, Computers, Hardware
The WinFast ExDTV2300 H, part of the Express Card series from Leadtek, is designed to work with whatever format of television you are watching at the time, be it analog, digital, or even both.
This card comes with a 10-pin connector that supports component video input up to 480p, which makes it easy to capture videos from a CCD camera, camcorder, VCR, DVD player, or even a video game console. The ExDTV2300 H also has full screen stereo/SAP support, and is able to receive DVB-T and FM radio.
The user also has the option of choosing several video formats, including WMV, VCD, DVD, SVCD, as well as MPEG 1, 2, and 4.
The WinFast ExDTV2300 H is powered by WinFast PVR2, and it has many useful functions including Time Shifting, Scheduled Recording, and TwinView. There is even a Live Broadcasting function that turns a laptop into a television broadcasting center. It even comes with an infrared sensor remote with a power on/off function, so it feels like you are in front of your living room television.
Another terrific feature is the WinFast Mobile Video Express, or WinFast MoViE, which has a 3D album creator, plus an iPod and PSP video converter and Orb. The 3D album creator allows a user to create a personal 3D album, and view it on a portable media player such as the iPod or PSP. The Orb application also allows for viewing streaming music or videos on any device connected to the internet.
For those of you who like to watch television on your computer, you should probably check out the WinFast ExDTV2300 H TV capture card from Leadtek.
Read [Leadtek] Via [Maximum PC]
Web-related criminals could soon face the death penalty, in Iran
Posted July 3, 2008 at 09:56 PM by Robert Nelson
Section: Web, Websites
Iran is getting ready to debate a new law that could potentially send web criminals to the death chamber. The newly proposed bill is aimed to “toughen punishment for harming mental security in society,” and would mean that people found guilty of promoting activities such as corruption, prostitution or apostasy online could face the death penalty. Based on wording from the newly proposed law those found guilty “should be punished as ‘mohareb’ (enemy of God) and ‘corrupt on the earth’.”
This would mean that activity as simple as setting up a blog and writing about prostitution could mean death should you be found guilty. Currently Iran has pretty strict Internet rules and they block thousands of sites that are “deemed immoral or religiously and politically inappropriate.” Personally I have no interest in a prostitution blog, but it sounds really bad to think you could be put to death for such a thing.
Read [Gulf News]
Asus offers up the ruggedized B51 notebook
Posted July 3, 2008 at 08:47 PM by Arnold Zafra
Section: Computers, Mobile Computers, Laptops
Asus has announced the new B51 notebook which is being touted as a ruggedized machine that can withstand harsh treatments such as drops, shocks, spills and scratches. The B51 is built with a lightweight strong magnesium alloy chassis and buffered against shock with rubber bumpers along its edges. It also has a protective film to shield it from scratches.
Like all ruggedized notebooks in its class, the B51 was said to have passed military specifications namely the ‘MIL 810F Method 516.5 Procedure IV’ which simply means that it can withstand fall from a height of up to 75 cm (about 2.5-feet). Even the data stored in the hard drive will be protected from corruption by a sponge protection system which also protects its keyboard.
With features such as those, we guess you know by now that the Asus B51 was made for mobile professionals who are always exposed to rugged terrain and environments. If you think you’re in need of this kind of machine, then you might as well know its technical specifications and features. The B51 boasts of an Intel Core 2 Duo Processor, a Mobile Intel GM965 Chipset, up to 4GB RAM, up to 320GB of hard drive storage, a built-in 1.3-megapixel webcam, Bluetooth and ships with an 8-cell battery.
Pricing information and release date for this lean machine are not yet available, which should not surprise coming from Asus. We would expect a release date during the later part of the year though.
Read [Asus]
Linspire acquired by Xandros
Posted July 3, 2008 at 07:37 PM by Robert Nelson
Section: Computers, Software / Applications
Xandros is currently in the process of purchasing Linspire. The agreement, which was signed on June 19 would require Linspire to change their name to Digital Cornerstone Inc, however as of now a purchase price has not been made public. Linspire was originally founded by Michael Robertson and was initially called Lindows, until a certain company forced them to change their name to Linspire.
While Linspire is certainly not as commonly know of a Linux distribution as Ubuntu or Xandros, this sale could potentially mean some interesting things when it comes to making Linux easy to use for non-technical people. Xandros has done good things recently with the Eee PC, but they could take one important item from Linspire and make it even easier for everyone. That feature is called CNR, or Click n Run and it allows for a one-click installation of thousands and thousands of software titles. Think of how much easier the Eee PC could be with a one-click application installer.
Of course, details of the transaction have not yet been made public, and Xandros has not announced any plans they have for the future of Linspire, the current Linspire customers or the possible integration of some Linspire features into Xandros.
Read [Michael Robertson] Read [Slashdot]
Internet Explorer 8 adds more security features
Posted July 3, 2008 at 06:25 PM by Leo Blanco
Section: Computers, Software / Applications, Web, Web Browsers
Perhaps in a catch-up game with the recent launch of the ultra popular Mozilla Firefox 3 and upcoming Opera 9.5, Microsoft has been beefing up its own Internet Explorer 8 (IE8) with plethora of new security features
Currently in public beta phase, this once dominant Web browser hopes to win back the hearts of its disheartened users with its new anti-malware protection and Cross Site Scripting (XSS) filter to fight against the so-called reflection attacks.
On top of these new developments, Microsoft recently announced other security features in IE8 such as the upgraded version of its phishing filter called SmartScreen Filter, improvement on ActiveX controls as well as anti-social engineering features.
However, most of these features are already available in other Web browsers so it won’t do much to help IE8 differentiate itself from competition. To make matters worse, your computer must be running Windows Vista SP1 or Windows XP SP3 for you to enjoy this added protection.
In short, we suggest sticking with Firefox!
Read [InformationWeek]
Not all game systems are green machines
Posted July 3, 2008 at 06:15 PM by NEWS
Section:
FROM GAMERTELL - An Austrailain research company found that the PS3 is the biggest energy offender, followed by the…