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Samsung Galaxy Tab release date announced; pricing, tech specs leaked

2010-09-05T01:18:00.000-07:00

Samsung has officially unveiled its latest tablet device Samsung Galaxy Tab at the IFA consumer show in Berlin. The company although didn't disclose the proposed price of this upcoming device, but the pricing details and full tech specs of this device is already leaked on UK'sExpansys.

Samsung Galaxy Tab will run on Android 2.2 and dispaly a 7-inch capacitive touchscreen. The key features include Adobe Flash Player 10.1, Wi-Fi 802.11b, g and n, all powered by a Cortex A8 1.0GHz processor. The other specs of this tablet device include video calling, augmented reality functionality and a full web browser.

Expansys has already listed Samsung Galaxy Tab on its website for pre-orders at £680 ($1,050). The device will be available on 12th of October, as per the website.

You can check out the official Samsung Galaxy Tab teaser video here.

Source: http://www.knowyourmobile.in/

Samsung Galaxy S vs iPhone 4

2010-09-05T01:13:00.000-07:00

Two mighty phones released recently have been the talk of the town. Samsung has come up with its own Bada-powered high-end Android device Samsung Galaxy S. Whereas, Apple has launched highly-anticipated iPhone 4 with its revamped iOS 4.

Does Samsung Galaxy S poses real threat to the new iPhone 4? Check out the Samsung Galaxy S vs iPhone 4 comparison to know which device ofers the better value for money option to the users.

The Samsung Galaxy S promises a lot - taking the competent Galaxy and making it faster with a stunning display and speedy processor. On the other hand, Apple introduced the latest iPhone 4 to bolster its supremacy in the high-end mobile phone segment.

Can the Galaxy S give a run for money to the iPhone?

Screen:
The Samsung Galaxy S displays a 4-inch, 480x800 pixel super-AMOLED color screen.

It's massive and sharp and we'd say it's the best feature of the Samsung Galaxy S, and probably the best smartphone screen out there.

However, the iPhone 4's 640x960 pixels, 3.5 inch Retina display with a glass, scratch resistant cover, is absolutely stunning too.

The larger, crisper screen of the Galaxy S gets our vote though.

Verdict: Samsung Galaxy S

Camera:
The Samsung Galaxy S sports a 5 megapixel camera mounted on the back. However, it lacks flash or an anti-shake filter, or video calling feature that is available on the iPhone 4.

The Samsung's camera does allow for video recording in HD though, although we're not sure how handy it will be without a flash in low light conditions.

The Samsung Galaxy S also features a secondary camera on the front for making video calls.

Samsung's cameras traditionally produce stunning photos, so we can expect lots from the Galaxy S.

Along with the 5 megapixel camera on the back with LED flash, the iPhone 4 packs in a VGA camera on the front to allow for self-potraits and FaceTime calls.

The more powerful camera on the rear even supports HD video recording, at a resolution of 720p at 30 frames per second.

We see the flash as an advantage here because it means the iPhone is prepared for any low-light situation.

Verdict: iPhone 4

Processor:
Both the Samsung Galaxy S and the iPhone 4 feature a 1GHz processor.

The Galaxy S's processor is ARM's Cortex A8 1GHz processor, while the iPhone4 uses Apple's own Apple A4 processor, alrthough it is built upon the same framework as the Samsung's powerhouse.

We've seen the capabilities of Apple's A4 processor on the iPad and it performs fantastically well.

Samsung has a lot to compete with in this arena, although we're pretty sure Samsung will put up a strong fight and possibly prove victorious.

Verdict: Samsung Galaxy S

Operating System:
The Samsung Galaxy S runs on Android 2.1, with Samsung's TouchWiz UI overlaid.

It's a decent move from Android 1.6 offering Outlook support, more homescreens and Flash Lite v3.1.

Android also offers full multitasking unlike Apple which is always an advantage in our eyes, especially when you consider its speedy processor.

The iPhone 4 runs on the newly innovated iOS 4. Features include interchangeable homescreen wallpapers, multitasking, and a software audio controller that works with any background audio app, not just the iPod app.

However, Apple's App Store will be hard to beat, despite Android catching up on the apps race pretty quickly.

Verdict: iPhone 4

Overall Verdict
It is hard to match the iPhone 4 when going head to head with any phone, but the Samsung Galaxy S certainly puts up a tough fight.

It's a top quality smartphone that has the advantage of the open source Android platform in its favour.

The screen is stunning and large enough to make web browsing a breeze, but we're not convinced the Touchwiz UI is as user friendly as Apple's.

Source :www.knowyourmobile.in

Samsung DualView TL225

2009-12-05T07:09:00.000-08:00

Samsung has announced an innovative camera called the DualView TL225 that features two LCD displays - one on the front and one on the rear - to help users compose their own self-portraits and capture better timed group shots.

The TL225’s 1.5-inch front LCD works as a kind of vanity mirror, giving you similar composition control in front of the lens as you’d expect behind it. This standout DualView feature is backed by some impressive software too, including Child Mode that plays animations through the front LCD to help attract the attention of small kids while clicking a photo, and your baby gives you a better smiling pose. Wow what an idea.

Also, in the self-timer mode, the front display shows the countdown in large numbers so everyone in your to take a perfect group photo. and the best part is, to be doubly sure, the camera can also be set to take a second shot automatically without you running back to set it up.Samsung’s TL225 DualView digital camera is available now from Amazon.com for $349.99.

PC world :

"Pros
Innovative dual-screen display
Cool touchscreen UI with gesture-based controls

Cons
Expensive
Poor battery life
Supports only microSD and microSDHC storage cards

Bottom Line

Packed with innovative features, the dual-screen, touchscreen, gesture-controlled TL225 is more for gadget hounds than for hardcore photographers. Its whistles and bells drain the battery quickly."

The PC World bottom lines hence winds it up..!! Well i stand by the bottom line.

Dell Brings out its new mobile device division into handheld market

2009-12-05T06:43:00.000-08:00

Now this device has a Google android OS in it.

The Dell has got 2 versions, the Mini 3i, a quadband GSM/EDGE only (no 3G) and packs a 3.5-inch nHD, 640x360 touchscreen display just like that found on Nokia's N97. Another version is the 58.35 x 122 x 11.7-mm OPhone, will be available in "Red Passion" and "Oiled Bronze" colors packing Bluetooth, a 3 megapixel auto-focus camera with flash and video capture mode, microSD slot, and GPS with pre-loaded maps.

Dell Mini 3i OPhone Specifications:

Form Factor: Tablet/PDA
Dimensions: 58.35 x 122 x 11.7
Display: 3.5” nHD, 640x360
Bands/Modes: Quadband GSM/EDGE
Weight: <105g (grams)
Bluetooth
GPS
Micro SD (up to 32GB)
Connector: Mini USB

Popular Mini 3i Features:

Entertainment: Access to China Mobile’s Mobile Market suite of services, games, productivity tools, wallpapers, ringtones and applications. Discover China’s popular Internet sites including 51.com, Kaixin and Renren.
Customization: Personalize MP3 ring tones, icons and shortcuts. Run widgets on the home screen: sports, stocks, news and weather tickers.
Navigation: GPS navigation.
Search: Search contacts, appointments and e-mail from the home screen.
Camera: 3 megapixel camera with zoom, auto-focus, flash, video capture and photo-editing capabilities. A 3.5 inch, widescreen (16:9), 640 x 360 display that’s ideal for viewing photos and videos.
Popular Messaging: Support for the wide range of messaging platforms and services, including e-mail, IM, MMS and SMS.

This is only available for China and Brazil, Hence Guys You would have to wait to get that into your Pocket.
Well I after having a look on the Experts saying can say that Dell has to work a lot really now to survive in the Market due to heavy competitions.

All the Best DELL !

source:Internet

GOOGLE's Public DNS.. What is this ?

2009-12-04T17:40:00.000-08:00

Google is expanding over the net like a Big Bang. It has put over its hands now to the DNS.You might have heard about DNS (Domain name System/Server). The DNS is an Internet protocol that acts as both telephone directory and switchboard.Its job is to provide translation of a URL, such as www.goolge.com, into the IP address of the server that hosts the site.

Google has just begun an experimental, but stable, Public Domain Name Server (DNS), described in a Thursday post to Google's Official Blog.
Now you would wonder why this Public Domain for me ?

Google says

"The DNS protocol is an important part of the web's infrastructure, serving as the Internet's phone book: every time you visit a website, your computer performs a DNS lookup. Complex pages often require multiple DNS lookups before they start loading, so your computer may be performing hundreds of lookups a day."

Well the DNS are used to speed up the browsing for a user. You may not see a remarkable change, but surely you may feel that your browser is opening pages bit quickly than before. It may just increase the speed upto 4-6 kbps (on avg) from your current speed, now this is what i feel.

Is the service free ?
Yes. Like many other Popular services of Google even this is free.

What would Google get ?
You may wonder what may Google get through this, wher it has no ads to display as such..!!

Google's Public DNS will give the Internet giant an unparalleled look what people are doing on the Internet. It will, for example, be able to log every DNS request made by every user of its system and find a quick generic and authentic way to find what are poople actually looking at on internet, which will help it to grow more, like never before,It may indeed help us too.

According to Google Why should you try Google Public DNS?
"By using Google Public DNS you can:

Speed up your browsing experience.
Improve your security.
Get the results you expect with absolutely no redirection."

Google Public DNS is a free, global DNS resolution service, that you can use as an alternative to your current DNS provider.

To try it out:

Configure your network settings to use the IP addresses 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4 as your DNS servers or
Read configuration instructions.

Google's Public DNS is very likely to be a better, faster, more secure DNS than what your ISP offers, as the Google Promises backing up by its reputation too.So no harm in trying out and also trusting Google.

Sony Reveals Lightest Vaio P Series 8-inch Netbook

2009-01-10T09:49:00.000-08:00

At the ongoing CES 2009, Sony has announced a new line of P Series Netbooks which are the World’s Lightest 8 inch Netbook. It weighs just 1.4 pounds and is small enough to slip into a jacket pocket or a small handbag. It looks better than most of the Netbooks around and its features are also impressive.

HTC's iPhone rivals

2009-01-10T09:42:00.001-08:00

Taiwan-based HTC has announced three new iPhone rivals. The three touchscreen handsets target different sections of the market. The Touch 3G is aimed at business customers, Touch HD at the high-end media user and Touch Viva at the budget consumers.

All three phones come with Windows Mobile 6.1 and full touchscreen interfaces. HTC Touch 3G includes a 3.2 megapixel camera, and comes in four colours. It also comes with TouchFLO technology.

HTC Touch HD is a multimedia phone, with a 3.8-inch TFT-LCD flat touch-sensitive screen with 480 x 800 WVGA and GPS/A-GPS ability. It also comes with HSDPA, WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity.

Touch Viva has a 2 megapixel camera, WiFi, Bluetooth and microSD slot.

With a touch-sensitive 2.8-inch QVGP display, Touch Viva additionally sports limited EDGE data speeds.

Canon EOS 5D

2009-01-10T09:39:00.000-08:00

The successor to Canon's EOS 5D digital single lens reflex (SLR) camera is finally out, it's Canon EOS 5D Mark II. A 21 megapixel 'full-frame' camera, the Mark II can record high-def video as well.

A full-frame camera is capable of delivering the full range of a SLR lens, such that a 24-to-105 mm lens actually delivers a 24 mm wide-angle view. The ability is useful to photographers who want to shoot scenes like landscapes.

The video option gives a 1920x1080 resolution at 30 frames per second for up to 12 minutes of continuous recording. Output is MPEG-4 with CD-grade audio and it records sound in stereo. Since the SLR flips up to record video, users aren't able to lock the focus, but live view has three different focus modes: quick, contrast and detection.

This is the third full frame camera to be launched in recent weeks. The other two are Nikon D700, a 12.1 megapixel model and Sony Alpha DSLR-A900, a 24.6 megapixel camera. For SLR lovers, the full frame versions now offer a meaningful upgrade.

Hot new gadgets to gawk at!

2009-01-10T09:36:00.000-08:00

The gadget scene is scorching, with past few weeks witnessing some big ticket launches from vendors across categories.

From 21 megapixel camera to ultra-thin laptops, these products either create a brand new product segment or are a tough rival to an existing popular line-up of products. Here's a look into the recent sizzling launches.

Apple: iPhone Update Improves 3G Network Performance

2008-08-24T07:02:00.001-07:00

Apple has more or less taken the fall for iPhone 3G network issues with a terse statement released Tuesday.

Apple spokeswoman Jennifer Bowcock on Tuesday said "The [latest] software update improves communication with 3G networks," according to a USA Today article. Albeit concise, the statement implies that Apple is admitting that widely reported problems with 3G performance are at least partly tied to the handset itself.

To date, AT&T and other iPhone carriers have not taken responsibility for any of the handset's reported network issues. Experts have pointed out, however, that problems do exist with younger 3G networks such as that of AT&T, who has yet to optimize towers for 3G performance.

Though Apple's statement doesn't tell us all that much, I'm relieved the company has publicly said something. At some point the finger-pointing needs to stop, and Apple and AT&T should focus on devising a solution. Perhaps with Apple's statement, that time has come.

Apple's Big Plans: 40 Million More iPhones in the Next Year

2008-08-24T06:51:00.000-07:00

Apple had a stronger-than-expected start with the iPhone 3G, and the company plans to keep upping the ante by producing at least 40 million more iPhones in the next year, Business Week reports.

An Apple insider told Business Week that Apple plans to produce between 40 million to 45 million more iPhone 3Gs by August 2009. Albeit astronomical, this number falls short of Gene Munster's optimistic projection that Apple will sell 13 million more iPhones in 2008 and 45 million in 2009.

There's no doubt that the handset is immensely popular among consumers: In just three days after its launch, Apple sold one million iPhone 3Gs. However, it is questionable whether Apple's sales will be as successful in the coming year, in light of the "defective iPhone 3G" lawsuit it faces, among widespread complaints over the handset's spotty performance on the 3G network.

Apple's Ambitious iPhone 3G Plans [BusinessWeek]

Application Turns iPhone Into Medical Assistant

2008-08-24T06:50:00.001-07:00

A new iPhone application allows doctors to keep their patients' lives in their pockets in addition to their own.

Caretools calls its iChart app a "personal medical assistant," which stores everything from patient data to charts and lists of medications in a streamlined, organized fashion. To ensure diagnostic procedures aren't outdated, the application regularly updates with new medical data pulled from healthcare networks.

Though theoretically such an application could exist on other smartphones, tech-savvy doctors view the iPhone as ideal for medical imaging given its visual, intuitive interface and reasonably powerful processor.

The application is available for $140 through the App Store. Even if you're not a doctor, the app looks pretty cool: Check out the video at Caretools' site.

Also see:

A Tech Rx for Doctors: The iPhone

RFID + Olympic Ceremonies= Oppressively Long Lines and One Security Hole

2008-08-24T06:48:00.000-07:00

Despite cruelly long lines caused by tough security measures (and RFID-enabled tickets) at the Olympic opening ceremonies, the uncontrollable chaos expected at the entrance gates never came.

However, a few reports coming out of Beijing suggest that the security wasn't as good as it seemed and that the closing ceremonies could face even more challenges.

In an effort to stop counterfeiters and make the opening and closing ceremonies secure, the Beijing committee included RFID chips with spectators' passport information and home/e-mail addresses in each ticket.

Before the Games, most security experts predicted one of two things would happen: Ticket lines would create a standstill at the gates, or hackers would 'break' into the tickets and steal personal information.

In the last two weeks, we've compiled personal anecdotes of people who attended that day and asked them about their experience. The results were mostly positive, with one glaring exception.

According to a Dutch businessman, he was asked to drink his sunscreen to prove it wasn't an explosive and when he explained that he couldn’t drink sunscreen, he was let through without further inquiry. "The security was less than professional and not completely thorough," he said.

Continue reading "RFID + Olympic Ceremonies= Oppressively Long Lines and One Security Hole" »

FemiSapien Robot Goes on Sale

2008-08-24T06:42:00.000-07:00

She will slow pose, be your back-up singer, dance with you and blow kisses. And it doesn't take a lifetime's commitment to get there.

WowWee's first female robot FemiSapien has been spotted for sale at Amazon, Target, and the company's online store for just $99.

The little robot can be programmed with a sequence of movements that can be up to 80 steps long.

The FemiSapien can communicate with and, not surprisingly, control other WowWee robots including the Robosapien.

And if you speak within 3 feet of her she will chat with you.

'The Kissing Robot' as she's also known is cute enough to almost fall in love with.

Logitech Spins Out First Steering Wheel for the Wii

2008-08-22T04:03:00.000-07:00

My experience of driving games is limited: Super Mario Kart (the best version, on the SNES), Daytona Racing (the arcade version) and, erm, Chequered Flag on the Spectrum. The only one of these with a real steering wheel was Daytona, and it was awesome.

Now, Logitech has released the first steering wheel for the Wii, and it could just make me buy a Wii to try it out on Mario Kart (I'll also need to buy a TV). The Speed Force Wireless Racing Wheel is, as you might guess from the name, wireless and offers force feedback, so when you take Donkey Kong into a tight corner you should really feel the strain. The wireless part uses Logitech's own 2.4GHz radio, with a dongle to slot into the Wii's USB port, and the whole shebang sits on your lap (no need for one of those dorky gaming chairs).

You'll be able to pick one up in November for $100.

Product page [Logitech. Thanks, Tate!]

Review: Nikon D3 is Light-Years Ahead of Other Prosumer-Grade Shooters

2008-08-22T04:00:00.000-07:00

Nikon D3

Eyes were bugging, mouths were watering, right index fingers were twitching for the longest time in anticipation of Nikon's D3. With no desire to disappoint, the shutter icon pulled out all the stops of speed, durability, accuracy, features and ease-of-use in its first full-framed DSLR. When the news hit, there were a few raised eyebrows at the 12.1-megapixel output, but once the shutter started clacking its considerable improvements shone through and most of its doubters unfurrowed their brows.

Out of the box and straight up to the eye you'll immediately enjoy the spacious and bright viewfinder. The noticeably improved 51-point auto focus system is whip-fast and works in concert with an outstanding 1005-pixel metering sensor that gets it right in the most challenging lighting. Images are beautifully consistent with a wide dynamic range and improved noise reduction settings that give the pictures a more natural look. To achieve that end, Nikon pulled back on the sharpening levels, leaving the choice of added "crunchiness" to a photographer's post production predilections.

Like it's pro-stylie peer, the Canon 1Ds Mark III, it's got some bulk behind it. Grab a handful of the magnesium bodied D3 and it won't be long before people start asking if you've been working out. However, the weight is by no means off putting because of your obviously improved physique and the fact the camera's meant to withstand the kind of brutality that pros dish out.

On the lighter side, Nikon's new three-inch high-res LCD is a revelation. Big and sharp it makes the Jules Verne-like dives into the camera's sensible, yet vast menu system a whole lot easier. If you do take the plunge, be ready to spend a good chunk of time learning the feature set to exploit the D3's capabilities. From resolution to speed, color control, bit-depth and so much more, the D3 is incredibly customizable. Dial it in for lightning-quick 11-frames-per-second sports action, superlow-light shooting (ISO up to 25600), handheld or tripod mounted live view, you name it, whatever and however you want to shoot, the D3 does it exceptionally well. —Jackson Lynch

WIRED High ISO shooting is fantastic with relatively low noise at settings up to ISO 3200 and beyond. Live view function the best of the top end DSLRs. Dual CF card capability.

TIRED So many functions it could take a lifetime to learn them all. No in-camera dust-reduction system.

$5,000 (body only),

Intel Demonstrates Wireless Power Technology

2008-08-22T03:44:00.000-07:00

I have been waiting for this for years: Wireless battery chargers. It'd make life so much easier. Thankfully, Intel demonstrated its progress on this technology at its developer forum Thursday.

Intel's wireless power technology involves a setup of two metal arrays -- resembling the rings of a planet -- connected to a power amplifer. The arrays resonate at a certain frequency to establish an energy link, transmitting power from one array to the other.

While this technology has been in development for some time, Intel boasts achieving the highest efficiency yet. In Intel's demonstration, the unit transferred 60 watts over two feet with 75 percent efficiency, according to an ExtremeTech story.

No worries for us: The technology's currently safe for humans, but not yet for our precious gadgets. Nonetheless, it's great to see people improving this technology and demonstrating that one day we could have something like this in our homes.

(Photo courtesy of Intel)

Shape-shifting materials, wireless power at IDF [ExtremeTech]

2 New NVIDIA Graphics Cards

2008-08-18T09:06:00.000-07:00

If you’re looking for high quality graphics cards for laptops or desktops, then NVIDIA is the name that you would usually look for first. They have consistently produced exceptional quality and continue to push the boundaries in computer graphics, even if you do have to pay a premium for the privilege. They have announced the release of two new graphics cards that will further enhance the graphical capabilities of your laptop computer.

The 9M Series NVIDIA graphics cards are receiving two new additions in the 9700M and 9800M use the parallel processing design in order to deliver exceptional 3D graphics. PhysX technology from NVIDIA helps to deliver 3D graphics in real time, with the end result being excellent 3D graphics delivered quickly reducing lag and frame rate issues that can sometimes be experienced with the most demanding graphics applications.

The two 9M series graphics cards also use new technologies to reduce the operating temperature of the cards, improve battery life, and reduce the noise. Video playback technologies include PureVideo HD technology to improve video quality such as the colour and contrast. While the two graphics cards offer excellent quality for any type of application, it’s gamers that typically benefit and the SLI multi GPU delivers an even higher quality of graphics especially for notebooks.

Pico portable internet radio

2008-08-18T09:02:00.000-07:00

If you fancy taking your internet tunes with you, the Revo Pico RadioStation will go wherever you've got Wi-Fi coverage.

The built in battery will keep it pumping out tunes for a good 12 hours and it's splash proof so you don't need to worry about leaving it out in what passes for summer in England. As it supports internet radio, you can tap into over 11,000 streams from all over the world.

If you fancy something a bit more local instead, then it also includes a DAB receiver and FM tuner. It supports the newer DAB+ standard too, so you'll be able to tap into new services as soon as they launch.

There's a large backlit LCD screen on the front so you can easily see what you're listening too and there's a remote control in the box so you can command it from afar.

We care because...
You can take you internet tunes wherever you've got wireless coverage.
I want one...
Then be ready for

£169.95
as to pay.

Nervian CardReader Pro

2008-08-18T08:57:00.000-07:00

Nervian has announced its new CardReader Pro that is meant to be integrated with your Mac Pro and PowerMac G5 case without causing any disruption in the flow of design. It takes just three steps to install it, where you have a choice of slipping it under the upper or lower handle of the Mac Pro/PowerMac G5 case. It will remain in place securely thanks to a special latch mechanism, and is connected to the computer via a USB 2.0 cable. It will support up to 52 different formats, including the newer SDHC standard. The CardReaderPro will be available in October in two color options, black or white. Currently Nervian is offering a 15% rebate for customers who sigh-up for notification of when the CardReader Pro is released.

RCA's 1969 Two Thousand TV Was Computerized Vision of Future, for $2,000

2008-08-18T08:52:00.000-07:00

Back in 1969 RCA made an attempt at a high-end TV that was a vision of the sets of the year 2000. The Two Thousand was even made in a limited run of 2,000 and cost $2,000. That's around $12,000 in today's money, but for that price you got a 23-inch Hi-Lite tube that had "such a vivid, detailed picture" you could "even watch it in a brightly-lit room." There were even "computer-like "memory circuits" that stored your fave channels, and preserved settings for volume and picture control. That must've seemed like the future indeed in an era of dial-twiddle-tuning to find the right VHF channel. The full advert page makes fascinating reading.

"No motors, no noise and no moving parts to wear out," just computer-designed "electronic memories"... fabulous, especially since I remember hunkering down before our old TV to swirl the dial. My Dad used to get me to change the channels, as a kind of intelligent remote control. Nowadays my cat brushes past the touch-controls on my flat-screen LCD TV and does that job for me. [Paleofuture via Boing Boing Gadgets]

Case Makes MacBook Air Look Like an Old Boiler

2008-08-17T03:30:00.000-07:00

You know when metal is repeatedly heated and it takes on a rather pleasant rainbow aspect? That's exactly what the Ion Factory's Iridium-Air Shell does for the MacBook Air. According to the company's email "it creates the ultimate sci-fi and 'wow' outlook."

Quite so. But the case is even more useless than first glance suggests. The primary purpose of any kind of case is protection, right? Ion Factory seem to have forgotten this and made the polycarbonate case even more delicate than the machine it shields:

Comes with a micro-fiber bag, the ION Iridium-Air Shell may need to treat with special care. In case of dust or such, use only mild soap and water, let it air dry. In return, the ION Iridium-Air Shell really looks impressive ever.

At his point, I would usually send you to the product page, whilst griping about the price. Unfortunately, the URL provided in the email throws a 404 error, and price is not mentioned. Even the Google can't find anything. But to be honest, I don't think either of those points will affect the sales.

Junkie Bike Thief Update: Busted

2008-08-17T03:29:00.000-07:00

You may remember that my bicycle was stolen by a tattooed, be-sutured junkie, its small parking lock apparently swiftly cracked and the whole thing wheeled away. Yesterday, almost three weeks later, I got it back, in almost tip-top condition.

A tribute to the benefits of alcohol and perseverance, the 18 day saga came to end when I spotted the jerk wheeling the bike past my local bar, where I was drinking a beer. He was walking with his mother, and there was a rather nice looking houseplant hanging from my handlebars. But before I tell you about how I interrupted this lovely domestic scene, a quick recap on the intervening adventures.

Continue reading "Junkie Bike Thief Update: Busted" »

How to Use Your Laptop While Driving

2008-08-17T03:28:00.000-07:00

A headset is now the law in most states if you want to use your cellphone while driving. But what about your laptop?

Here’s a low-tech hack from a New York Times reader who uses a laptop while driving to chat with his wife, who has hearing loss.

Use brackets to hold a laptop in the car. Combine it with a lapel mike and a voice recognition software such as Dragon NaturallySpeaking.

Add in a wireless card, and this could also be an easy way to get online and use a laptop from your car. Just be sure to keep your eyes -- and your mind -- on the road.

Back To School Gadgets in the Washington Post

2008-08-17T03:26:00.000-07:00

What are the best gadgets to buy for the upcoming school year? It's really all about what you actually need versus what you think will look cool or is the most expensive.

Earlier this morning, I hosted a Back-To-School online discussion for the Washington Post where I went over similar burning questions from parents and students. The biggest trend spotted through the questions? People want their gadgets cheap, powerful, and efficient. With the mini-notebooks (and others) offering plenty of affordable, Net-plugged rigs, people are now realizing that their options are no longer limited to a few companies and their expensive products.

But there are plenty of other quality educational tools for students beyond laptops. I also blogged about the educational possibilities of the Kindle, a few of the top websites for kids, and why bringing a voice recorder to class is a must.

Terminator Skull Plays DVDs, Reminds You One Day World Will End

2008-08-17T03:25:00.000-07:00

In Terminator 2 it was Arnold's leftover arm that made the Connors fail to stop Skynet. Or was it a terminator skull modified into a DVD player?

Toxel.com stumbled upon pictures of this freakishly awesome gem, although they have no idea who actually made this thing or where to buy it. Just imagine having one of these in your living room: The eyes constantly glowing a fierce red, reminding you that while you sit back and watch that crappy Beowulf movie, the apocalypse is approaching nearer and nearer and one day robots will take over the world and destroy it.

Really ties together the living room, don't it?

Continue reading "Terminator Skull Plays DVDs, Reminds You One Day World Will End" »

Around-the-Neck Camera Design Would Shoot Steady POV Movies

2008-08-17T03:20:00.000-07:00

Shooting point-of-view uh, short films would be a lot easier if you didn't have to hold the camcorder. Industrial designer Johan Frossen's neck cam should fix that.

Frossen's concept design consists of a camera worn around your neck that shoots video in fisheye mode, capturing everything coming toward you; the idea is to stabilize the image with a hands-free device. Using a wireless connection, the camera would transfer video to a cell phone to be converted to standard format for your viewing pleasure.

We've sort of got a new Garrett Brown here, except Frossen's neck cam would probably be used in a video industry less prestigious (and more raunchy) than Hollywood...

Toshiba's HD-A3x third generation HD DVD players get official

2007-08-25T03:33:00.005-07:00

Looks like we won't have to wait 'til CEDIA to learn more about Toshiba's next generation HD DVD players. Amazon had the model number and prices right, which are in-line with the last generation of players, with the exception of the top of the line HD-A35 it has an MSRP of $499 compared to the HD-XA2's $799. The entry level HD-A3 has pretty much the same features set as the last time around, but its bigger brothers include a few extras including 24p support, (HD-A20 and HD-XA2 are expected to get an firmware update in September to enable 24p) and CE-LINK. Both of these features are a must-have if your TV supports them and should help Toshiba move a few more units this time around -- though those new looks won't hurt either.

Expected Pricing and Expected Availability:
HD-A3 ($299.99, October 2007)
HD-A30 ($399.99, September 2007)
HD-A35 ($499.99, October 2007)

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HDTV Listings for August 24, 2007

2007-08-25T03:26:00.000-07:00

What we're watching: Tonight we've got the NFL on CBS, NASCAR on ESPN2-HD and Wedding Crashers on HBO.

Our traditional high-def listings continue below.

Here are some other HDTV programs showing on selected networks today. All times are Eastern and reruns are in italics, finales in bold:

ABC (720p): George Lopez (9 & 9:30 p.m.)

CBS (1080i): NFL: Patriots at Panthers (8 p.m.)

NBC (1080i): Law & Order: SVU (10 p.m.), The Tonight Show with Jay Leno (11:34 p.m.)

Fox (720p): The Animal (8 p.m.)

CW (1080i): N/A

MYNTV (1080i): N/A

Discovery-HD (1080i): Ant Wars (7 p.m.), The Desert Speaks (8, 8:30, 11 & 11:30 p.m.), HD Traveler (9 p.m.), Best of the National Parks (10 p.m.)

TNT-HD (1080i): Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (8 p.m.), The Time Machine (11:45 p.m.)

ESPN-HD (720p): SportsCenter (6 & 11 p.m.), The Bronx is Burning (7 & 8 p.m.), Baseball Tonight (10 p.m.)

ESPN2-HD (720p): NASCAR Countdown (7:30 p.m.), NASCAR Busch Series at Bristol (8 p.m.), Friday Night Fights: Rodriguez vs. Collins (10:30 p.m.)

Mojo HD (1080i): London Live (7, 7:30, 9 & 9:30 p.m.), I Bet You (8 p.m.), King of Miami (8:30 & 11:30 p.m.), Decades Rock Live (10 p.m.)

Universal HD (1080i): Law &Order: SVU (7 p.m.), Six Feet Under (8 & 9 p.m.), The Emperor's Club (10 p.m.)

HDNet (1080i): HDNet World Report (7 p.m.), The Best of Art Mann Presents... (8 & 11:30 p.m.), Deadline! (8:30 p.m.), Art Mann Presents (9 p.m.), Get Out! (9:30 p.m.), Mixed Martial Arts (10 p.m.)

HDNet Movies (1080i): The Ref (8 & 11:30 p.m.), Chain of Fools (9:45 p.m.)

HBO-HD (1080i): Hard Knocks: Training Camp with the Kansas City Chiefs (7 p.m.), Wedding Crashers (8 p.m.), Entourage (10 & 10:30 p.m.)

MAX-HD (1080i): Kiss Kiss, Bang Bang (6:45 p.m.), The Marine (8 p.m.), The Omen (10 p.m.)

STZ HD (1080i): Scary Movie 4 (7:30 p.m.), Flightplan (9 p.m.), Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby (10:45 p.m.)

Showtime (1080i): In the Mix (7:15 p.m.), Californication (9 p.m.), Aeon Flux (10 p.m.)

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Sony's Bravia VPL-VW60: the SXRD black pearl with 35,000:1 contrast

2007-08-25T03:17:00.000-07:00

September 20th: know it home cinema buffs. That's the date Sony releases their SXRD followup to the VPL-VW50 "Pearl" projector in Japan. The new Bravia VPL-VW60 projects a 1,920 x 1,080 image with a 35,000:1 contrast ratio and 1,000 lumens courtesy of its (¥42,000 / $367) 200W high pressure mercury lamp and trio of 0.61-inch SXRD chips. It's also quieter than its predecessor at 22dB while packing a pair of HDMI-CEC class HDMI jacks supporting 1080/60p, 50p, and 24p. Best of all though, Sony managed to seriously up the specs while cutting the introductory list price nearly in half to "just" ¥441,000 (about $3,858).

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Toshiba's REGZA Z3500 series of 120Hz LCDs: 57-inches of love for your home network

2007-08-25T00:05:00.000-07:00

Like TVs do ya? Then go ahead and block off the next few hours to decipher the machine translated Japanese surrounding Toshiba's 11 new HDTVs. Of these, the new top of the line REGZA Z3500 series of 37-, 42-, 46-, 52- and 57-inch LCDs are by far the more interesting. Each offers a 120Hz / 10-bit IPS panel with 3x HDMI (1080/60p and 24p) supporting x.v colour/ Deepcolour, 2x Firewire, and a whopping 3x Ethernet jacks for surfing the internet (browser built-in) or streaming DNLA and DTCP-IP media from Tosh's own VARDIA recorders, Qosmio PCs, your local NAS server, and plenty more. Better yet, sling a few disks off the included 2x USB jacks and you've got an instant DVR -- suuuweet. Prices start at ¥360,000 ($3,123) and run up to ¥950,000 ($8,242) for the biggie 57-incher. We'll bring you the rest of the new sets a bit later, mkay?

Second iPhone software unlock promised tomorrow

2007-08-24T23:51:00.000-07:00

The iPhone is getting used and abused today with a second software-only unlocking solution making itself known. Uniquephones now surprised with word that it will be offering a downloadable software unlock service between 12 and 2 PM EST tomorrow at iphoneunlocking.com. Pricing will be somewhere between $25 and $50 with a 25 to 50 percent discount for people who have already signed up for the service -- apparently as many as 450,000 already have.

Read - iPhone Unlockers Lining Up
Read - iPhoneunlocking.com (not active until tomorrow)

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Forthcoming Netgear WiFi Skype phone caught on video

2007-08-24T23:32:00.000-07:00

While watching Netgear's CEO play around with its "version 2.0" Wifi Skype phone certainly isn't as riveting as seeing the Nissan Dialist mech run around the streets of Ginza, the crew over at LiveDigitally was able to snag a few precious seconds of Patrick Lo's time in order to catch a glimpse of the aforementioned device. The overall design doesn't deviate too much from the existing rendition, and while Mr. Lo didn't get into the nitty-gritty per se, he did drop word that it'll be lighter, smaller, have a much improved GUI, last longer on a single charge, and "work seamlessly" with hotspots. Unfortunately, there wasn't even a hint as to when we'd see this thing hit the market, but click on through if you're interested in seeing the (very brief) interview.

[via link ]

Sun wants investors to recognize it as the Java company

2007-08-24T02:36:00.000-07:00

Apparently it's not enough that Sun peppers any and all discussions of its hardware and software products with liberal mentions of its Java programming language, now the vendor wants Wall Street to sit up and take more note of its homegrown technology too.

As of Monday, Sun Microsystems Inc.'s ticker on the Nasdaq stock exchange will be Java, as the vendor turns its back on the SUNW ticker, which has served the company since it went public in 1986. Sun announced the upcoming change on Thursday.

Sun had its origins on the Stanford campus where three of the California university's graduate students Andy Bechtolsheim, Vinod Khosla, and Scott McNealy, along with Berkeley graduate Bill Joy, came together to found the company in 1982. The name Sun originally stood for Stanford University Network, while the W indicated Sun's first products: workstations.

In a Thursday posting on his blog, Sun president and CEO Jonathan Schwartz heralded the ticker change as recognizing that the Java brand is much better known than Sun, the company behind it.

"The number of people who know Java swamps the number of people who know Sun," he wrote, pointing to the technology's ubiquity as it's present in most of today's PCs, mobile devices and embedded systems. While the SUNW symbol is well known in the financial community, it represents "nostalgic value" and "the past," according to Schwartz. By contrast, the Java brand is "inseparably a part of Sun (and our profitability)," he added.

Schwartz was careful to state that the ticker name change wasn't indicative of any change in strategy for Sun, which will continue to offer a mix of products. "But we are no longer simply a workstation company, nor a company whose products can be limited by one category -- and Java does a better job of capturing exactly that sentiment than any other four letter symbol," he wrote. "Java means limitless opportunity -- for our software, systems, storage, service and microelectronics businesses."

Initial reactions to Sun's ticker change were mostly unfavorable -- "a terrible idea," "a waste of money," "a stupid move," "a joke," and "worst idea ever," according to most of the comments appended to Schwartz's blog. Commentators saw the Java ticker as limiting, not expressive of Sun's overall product portfolio and also very much yesterday's technology. While Java has been widely adopted, its ubiquity and its 12 years in the market add up to a dated technology, they wrote.

Sun began work on what later became Java in 1991 as a project code-named "Oak" initially for use in set-top boxes. The company then re-evaluated the work it had done and repurposed the effort as a new programming language with the mantra of "Write once, run anywhere." In other words, developers could create a program in Java and then have it run without alternation on a wide variety of hardware platforms. Sun unveiled Java in 1995, and, after some initial hiccups, the vendor saw widespread adoption of the language by developers working at all different sizes of companies from very large enterprises to small embedded systems startups.

Google Apps Useful for Businesses as a Microsoft Contender?

2007-08-24T02:18:00.001-07:00

The Burton Group research and consulting firm has released a 55-page report indicating that Google Apps should be used in limited circumstances and should not be leveraged for building extensive services.

This may go against what some Enterprise architects would hope for, considering the costs of Google Apps, the usability and the brand, especially as Google Apps are being heavily published by the company itself. There’s a recognizable shift in market share that the larger software companies like Microsoft must pay attention to. Yet Microsoft Office still has much more functionality and tools for document creation. Google Apps have been noted by the Burton Group as a useful tool for start-ups and small businesses, if used for basic office collaboration or as a replacement of Microsoft Office for “non-power users,” taking advantage of basics like email, spreadsheets, etc. This report is basically indicating that Google Apps is best used for rudimentary, internal purposes within smaller companies.

The Burton Group goes on to compare important features, naming advantages and disadvantages of Google Apps, including potential loss of data. While Microsoft is among the larger corporations that’s taking a proactive approach to having a stronger web presence, even extending their services to web 2.0 structures like social networks such as Bebo, the functionality and features of web-based document creation and management tools are improving, with several companies like Google, Zoho and Thinkfree. What’s really highlighted in The Burton Group report is the standing gap between Microsoft Office and web-based tools. What’s also important to look at is why web-based tools still manage to make a dent in market share, as insinuated by The Burton Group report: how many of Microsoft Office users employ more than 10% of the available features?

Emtec offers up 2GB C230 portable media player

2007-08-24T02:12:00.001-07:00

Try not to yawn too hard on this one, but Emtec has loosed a fairly boring PMP that does manage to do a so-so job in the attractivity department. This 2GB unit sports a 2.2-inch color display, an SD / MMC expansion slot in case a couple gigabytes aren't enough, support for all modern flavors o, USB connectivity, and compatibility with AVI, WMV, MPEG4, MP3, and JPEG file formats. Additionally, you'll find a headphone jack and a rechargeable Li-ion battery, and those who don't mind picking up just the basics can look Amazon's way when depositing their £55.28 ($110)

Google's mobile phone in two weeks? Not likely

2007-08-24T00:42:00.000-07:00

According to reports out of India, Google is currently in talks with country's first and third largest telecos, Bharti Airtel and Vodafone Essar, concerning everyone's favorite mobile rumor: the Google phone. Based on information coming from Rediff's India Abroad, an exclusive launch -- happening in a highly questionable two weeks -- is being discussed between the companies, and would tie into a simultaneous debut of the Gphone in both the US and Europe, coupled with announcements in India and other parts of the world. The only hurdle, they say, is approval from regulatory agencies (such as the FCC, we would assume). The report goes on to suggest that Google has plans to invest $7-8 billion in its telephony plot, though there has been practically zero confirmation from the company. When asked about the possibility of the Google mobile phone making an appearance soon, a spokesperson for the search-portal-giant said, "We don't comment on market rumour or speculation. However, Google is committed to providing users with access to the world's information, and mobile becomes more important to those efforts every day." So, while you can never, truly rule out a sudden showing of the Gphone, definitely don't go banking on it either.