leychay's.world

Visualized: Samsung wants to see the iPhone 5 and iPad 3

2011-05-30T11:13:00.003+08:00

Samsung lawyers recently asked the court to make Apple show them the as-yet-unannounced iPhone 5 and iPad 3, claiming that they need to know what Apple's products will look like ahead of time to avoid future lawsuits and uncanny similarities. If only it were this easy.

Original source: Visualized: Samsung wants to see the iPhone 5 and iPad 3

NVIDIA refreshes notebook graphics with GeForce GTX 560M, attracts ASUS, MSI, Toshiba and Alienware

2011-05-30T11:13:00.001+08:00

If you've enjoyed NVIDIA's fine tradition of merely bumping along its GPUs time and again and affixing a new badge, you'll like the GeForce GTX 560M -- it's much like last year's GTX 460M, but with more bang for the buck than ever. ASUS, MSI, Alienware, Toshiba and Clevo have all committed to new notebooks bearing the graphics processor in light of the potent performance NVIDIA claims it will bring: Namely, those same 192 CUDA cores (now clocked at 1550MHz) and up to 3GB of GDDR5 memory (now clocked at 1250MHz, with a 192-bit bus) should enable the latest games to run at playable framerates on a 1080p screen with maximum detail -- save antialiasing. Of course, that assumes you've also got a recent quad-core Sandy Bridge processor and gobs upon gobs of RAM, but NVIDIA also says that with the built-in Optimus switchable graphics, those same potent laptops should be able to manage five hours of battery life while idling. If you're looking for some inexpensive discrete graphics, however, NVIDIA's also got a refresh there, as the new GeForce GT 520MX bumps up all the clock speeds of the GT 520M. When can you expect a mobile GPU to knock the GTX 485M off its silicon throne, though? Glad you asked: a chart shows a "Next-gen GTX" coming late this year. Meanwhile, see what NVIDIA says the GTX 560M's capable of in the gallery below and a video after the break. Gallery: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 560M brag sheetsContinue reading NVIDIA refreshes notebook graphics with GeForce GTX 560M, attracts ASUS, MSI, Toshiba and Alienware

Original source: NVIDIA refreshes notebook graphics with GeForce GTX 560M, attracts ASUS, MSI, Toshiba and Alienware

Apple testing A5-packing MacBook Air?

2011-05-29T11:13:00.002+08:00

We've seen it put its processing power behind the iPad 2 and heard rumors of its presence in the upcoming fifth-gen iPhone, but could Apple really be considering putting its mobile-minded A5 processor in a MacBook Air? According to Japanese website, Macotakara, a trial of the ARM chip is already underway. Apple's reportedly been experimenting with a Thunderbolt-equipped MacBook Air with the A5 on board, and "according to someone who has seen a model running with [Apple's] A5 processor, the performance is better than had been thought." Two weeks ago, we reported on rumors that the upcoming MacBook Air refresh could be on its way as early as next month, featuring Intel's Sandy Bridge 17W mobile processors -- a claim we'd say could hold water. Of course, this information has trickled a ways down the grapevine, and the presence of an A5-packing test vehicle doesn't mean much anyway, but you can consider our interest piqued, regardless.

Original source: Apple testing A5-packing MacBook Air?

Paypal v. Google: a tawdry tale of trade secret misappropriation

2011-05-29T11:13:00.001+08:00

Google and its poached Paypal employees got sued for trade secret misappropriation yesterday, but we didn't know the dirty details until now. A peek at PayPal's complaint reveals there's a bit more to the story. Apparently, Paypal and Google were in talks last year to use PayPal for payments in the Android Market. Osama Bedier was in charge of those negotiations for PayPal in October of 2010, when the deal was supposed to close, but was allegedly interviewing for a mobile payment position at Google at the same time (holy conflict of interest, Batman!). The complaint claims that Bedier initially rebuffed El Goog's advances, told PayPal of the job offer and professed that he would stay, but jumped ship a month later (bringing some PayPal coworkers with him) after being recruited by Stephanie Tilenius and the almighty dollar. Once it hired Osama, Google reportedly put the brakes on the PayPal deal and created Google Wallet. Then Google, Bedier, and Tilenius got slapped with a lawsuit. A brief rundown of the legal claims awaits you after the break.Continue reading Paypal v. Google: a tawdry tale of trade secret misappropriation

Original source: Paypal v. Google: a tawdry tale of trade secret misappropriation

Telecommunications device for the deaf gets hitched to a rotary phone, hacked to run Zork

2011-05-28T11:13:00.001+08:00

In today's episode of "But will it run Zork?" a chap named Ulysses got the vintage game to run on a TDD (telecommunications device for the deaf) -- a project he built to show off at the Bay Area Maker Faire last weekend. In a move we truly respect, he hunted down a rotary phone lifted straight out of the era when Zork was conceived (that would be the late '70s / early '80s). Then, he modified a modem so that the acoustically coupled TDD could be interfaced -- transmitting at a slow 45.5 baud to make it easy for even ponderous readers to keep up, one line at a time on the TDD's narrow display. Once this was sorted, things weren't exactly smooth sailing when Ulysses started fitting the compressed Zork story file into the system. At first, he tried using an Arduino Pro and an Arduino Mega, but found that neither had enough memory to accommodate the compressed Zork story file. Ultimately, he took a different tack and settled on an embeddable FitPC. We'd love nothing more than to see this thing in action, but in lieu of a video we highly suggest carving out a few minutes and perusing Ulysses' photo blog at the source link.

Original source: Telecommunications device for the deaf gets hitched to a rotary phone, hacked to run Zork

KDDI haptic smartphone prototype promises up to seven layers of touch, only shows off two

2011-05-27T11:13:00.003+08:00

Ah, another possibly vaporous, yet intriguing addition to a long line of haptic patents and prototypes. Today's offering: a KDDI smartphone mockup (utilizing Kyocera display technology) promising to render sensation through multiple layers of applied touchscreen pressure. Imagine depressing a camera shutter on a touchscreen, and you've got the idea. KDDI only had a screen sporting two haptic layers on hand when they demoed the prototype at Wireless Japan this week, but Kyocera reportedly told Akihabara News that the technology is capable of up to seven layers of tantalizing touch. Neat. Maybe we'll get a few authentic haptic touchscreens on the market and do away with all the vibrational fakery we've been seeing.

Original source: KDDI haptic smartphone prototype promises up to seven layers of touch, only shows off two

Omnio's WOWKeys keyboard now shipping, ready to dock your iPhone for $100 (video)

2011-05-27T11:13:00.001+08:00

Remember that Omnio WOWKeys keyboard we mentioned back in November -- the one that brings full-sized QWERTY functionality to your iPhone or iPod Touch? Well, it's now available for your consumption. Once you lock your iDevice into the port on the right, it will automatically begin charging and syncing with iTunes. From there, you can start typing text directly into your handheld, or use the keyboard's twelve hotkeys to control music playback functions, turn off the display, or switch between PC and iPhone mode. You can even use your mobile's touchscreen as a trackpad for your Mac or PC, though you'll need an app like Mobile Mouse Pro to do so. Basically, it's an EeeKeyboard. All told, this kind of synergy will cost you around $100, so if you're interested, hit the source link for more details, or head past the break for a pretty cringe-inducing video.Continue reading Omnio's WOWKeys keyboard now shipping, ready to dock your iPhone for $100 (video)

Original source: Omnio's WOWKeys keyboard now shipping, ready to dock your iPhone for $100 (video)

Cray XK6 supercomputer smashes petaflop record, humbly calls itself a 'general-purpose' machine

2011-05-26T11:13:00.003+08:00

Sure, IBM's ten petaflop supercomputer may sound impressive, but Cray can do you five better -- the outfit just announced the Cray XK6, an upgradable, hybrid supercomputing system capable of more than 50 petaflops of computational muscle. Powered by Cray's Gemini interconnect, AMD Opteron 6200 processors, and NVIDIA Tesla 20-Series GPUs, the XK6 system blends x86 and GPU environments with the firm's own flavor of Linux. The folks at Cray won't resort to bragging, however -- they're humbly declaring the machine to be the first "general-purpose supercomputer based on GPU technology," and not, as they put it, a stunt to place high on any Top 500 lists. Suggestive, aren't they? Check out the unassuming press release after the break.Continue reading Cray XK6 supercomputer smashes petaflop record, humbly calls itself a 'general-purpose' machine

Original source: Cray XK6 supercomputer smashes petaflop record, humbly calls itself a 'general-purpose' machine

Sony announces 160GB PlayStation 3 bundle with Call of Duty: Black Ops

2011-05-26T11:13:00.001+08:00

If you still haven't given in to your hankering for a PlayStation 3, you might want to check out this promotion Sony is teasing. The company just announced a limited edition PS3 bundle pairing Call of Duty: Black Ops with a 160GB console. For $299, Sony's also throwing in the First Strike content pack -- not too shabby, considering that's the standard price for a bare console. Depending on your proclivities, that may or may not trump a complimentary RC toy or Michael Jackson singalong, but if you've got a taste for first-person shooters, it should be right up your alley. First-time buyers can find it next week, starting on May 31.

Original source: Sony announces 160GB PlayStation 3 bundle with Call of Duty: Black Ops

Windows Phone Mango and Bing Vision hands-on

2011-05-25T11:13:00.001+08:00

We're done listening, it's time to start doing. Microsoft had a number of Windows Phone Mango devices scattered about after this morning's intimate event concluded. So we grabbed one, went somewhere quiet, and got a little more intimate with the operating system itself, checking out the new hubs, groups, and Bing Vision search that should make cross-shopping a whole lot easier. Join us, won't you, to see what Mango is -- and what it isn't. Gallery: Windows Phone Mango hands-on!Continue reading Windows Phone Mango and Bing Vision hands-on

Original source: Windows Phone Mango and Bing Vision hands-on

AMD announces new, more energy efficient Embedded G-Series APUs

2011-05-24T11:20:00.003+08:00

AMD has just rolled out two new additions to its line of Embedded G-Series APUs, combining Fusion-based processing with reduced power consumption. Both the T40E and T40R rock the same 64-bit x86 Bobcat CPU cores and DirectX 11-capable GPUs we've already seen in previous G-Series incarnations, but AMD says the pair can operate using thirty-nine percent less power than its cousins. The single core T40R boasts a thermal design power (TDP) rating of just 5.5 watts, while the dual core T40E offers a TDP of 6.4 watts. The two applications are designed for compact fanless systems, including kiosks and mobile industrial devices, though Axiomtek is apparently planning on incorporating the new APUs in a new Pico-ITX consumer PC, as well. Full PR after the break.Continue reading AMD announces new, more energy efficient Embedded G-Series APUs

Original source: AMD announces new, more energy efficient Embedded G-Series APUs

Kogeto Dot brings bite-size panoramic video recording to iPhone 4 (hands-on)

2011-05-24T11:20:00.001+08:00

We've seen panorama add-ons for the iPhone before, but Kogeto's offering is quite a bit more pocketable than other crowd-funded solutions. The Kogeto Dot snaps onto an iPhone 4 in your choice of pastel colors, and catches 360-degree video when placed face down. It's got an accompanying iOS app that will un-distort the video for sharing, or even broadcast it on the net in real time. We got to check out a prototype, and though there's still some residual distortion at this point in time, we're assured that it'll all get straightened out if and when the project meets its funding goal. Interestingly (and annoyingly), this implementation requires your iPhone be held perpendicular rather than upright, making previewing a capture virtually impossible until after you've stopped the recording, which seems unnatural to us. Combine that with a minimum Kickstarter pledge of $98 to secure one of your own, and suddenly the less-portable and lower-degree alternatives start sounding a little more attractive. If you're still interested, hit the source link below and get in on the action. Promo video after the break. Gallery: Kogeto Dot iPhone 4 panoramic camera hands-onContinue reading Kogeto Dot brings bite-size panoramic video recording to iPhone 4 (hands-on)

Original source: Kogeto Dot brings bite-size panoramic video recording to iPhone 4 (hands-on)

Google is blocking Android Market movie rentals on rooted devices because of copy protection

2011-05-23T11:13:00.003+08:00

Rooting your Motorola Xoom won't stop you from getting an LTE hardware upgrade, but it will throw up a roadblock if you're trying to watch movies rented from YouTube / Android Market. Android Central points out a Google support document that details the "Failed to fetch license for [movie title] (error 49)" message users will see when they try to play a movie on a rooted Android device. Only Xooms with Android 3.1 have access to the service right now, but once support rolls out to all Android 2.2 or higher devices in a couple of weeks some will have to choose between their superuser privileges and Google's nascent movie offerings (at least until someone figures out a workaround anyway). So far rooting and jailbreaking hasn't put a stop to other movie rental services for mobiles (iTunes, Netflix) so even if Google blames the movie studios for the policy, it seems like an odd restriction for the company behind the "open" platform to have.

Original source: Google is blocking Android Market movie rentals on rooted devices because of copy protection

Maker Faire 2011, in pictures: Arduinos, Androids, and angry robots (video)

2011-05-23T11:13:00.001+08:00

The rapture has come and gone, but the Maker Faire powers on. Despite warnings of a May 21st doomsday, folks came out in droves for the annual celebration of all things DIY, and we were there to bring you the best in homespun inventions. This year's Maker Faire was light on robots and big on corporate sponsorship. Among the giants supporting the little guys were Google, ASUS, and HP, but El Goog's presence extended beyond its dedicated tents. The new Android ADK was big with at-home tinkerers this year, spawning a number of little robots and at least one DIY alternative. Perhaps no other trend proved more pervasive than 3D printing, however -- every time we turned around there was another MakerBot or RapMan pumping out everything from statuettes of attendees to cutesy salt shakers. There were robotic building blocks, a Heineken-themed R2-D2, DIY drones, custom keyboards, and a ton of repurposed gadgets, but it was an arena of destructo-bots, tucked away in the farthest corner of the San Mateo County Event Center, that really blew us away. We came away sunburned and bedraggled, but lucky for you, we did all the dirty work so you don't have to. To see what made this year's Maker Faire, hop on past the break for a video of our favorite DIY finds. Gallery: Maker Faire 2011 Myriam Joire contributed to this report. Continue reading Maker Faire 2011, in pictures: Arduinos, Androids, and angry robots (video)

Original source: Maker Faire 2011, in pictures: Arduinos, Androids, and angry robots (video)

Google is blocking Android Market movie rentals on rooted devices because of copy protection

2011-05-22T11:13:00.003+08:00

Original source: Google is blocking Android Market movie rentals on rooted devices because of copy protection

Windows Phone 7-style music player for Android arrives from the developer of LauncherPro

2011-05-22T11:13:00.001+08:00

Any Android fans that envied Windows Phone 7's Metro UI style can have it for their media player (the WP7 launcher has been emulated before, try Launcher 7 in the Market), thanks to this app released by the developer of the popular LauncherPro homescreen replacement. As seen in the video above next to a real WP7 device, the look and functionality of the Zune player is present in a remarkably full featured interface despite its early alpha status, complete with features like scrobbling and playlists. The only thing it's really lacking so far is a name, and obviously any Zune software integration; while we wait to see if Microsoft has any reaction to this homage you can sideload the APK yourself from the source link. Update: If you want to see the same app running on Honeycomb (and looking amazing) check out a screenshot after the break. [Thanks @Basil_Knows!]Continue reading Windows Phone 7-style music player for Android arrives from the developer of LauncherPro

Original source: Windows Phone 7-style music player for Android arrives from the developer of LauncherPro

Ask Engadget: best extended battery for power-hungry smartphones?

2011-05-21T11:13:00.002+08:00

We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget inquiry is coming to us from Chuck, who seems to be having an unusual level of difficulty getting his phone through an entire day on a single charge. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "I have the HTC Evo, which has terrible battery life. I've gone through many steps, including rooting it and using SetCPU, however I'm still not getting as much out of it as I would like. I am looking to buy an extended battery, but after researching them I have found prices and reviews to be all over the map. What brand / model has the best results? Thanks!" So, superphone users -- which USB battery pack serves you best? Feel free to toss out Evo-specific solutions, but universal ones could help the masses. And it feels good to help the masses.

Original source: Ask Engadget: best extended battery for power-hungry smartphones?

Comcast's next generation Xfinity Spectrum DVR shows off quad tuners, new menu and apps

2011-05-21T11:13:00.001+08:00

It's been about six months since we heard Comcast was running tests of a brand new set-top box platform but now thanks to one of our tipsters we're able to see it in action and find out what's on the way. From the remote to the box to the menus it's all new, and appears to be a major step forward for the company and already includes familiar apps like Facebook and Pandora. The look of the new guide mirrors what we'd seen in the manual received by the FCC in December and demonstrated on Samsung HDTVs at CES earlier this year, intended for 16x9 displays and moving the main navigation elements to the top. The redesigned remote has a few new buttons and while it hasn't gone the QWERTY route, the software and hardware are designed around T9-style access for searching and messaging, with a button and microphone icon suggesting voice control is a possibility as well. The DVR itself is the Pace box we'd seen previously, although there was differing information on the number of tuners and hard drive space available, suggesting these details may still be up in the air. Check after the break for more details and our tipster's first hand account of the new TV experience. Gallery: Comcast Xfinity Spectrum DVR hands-on [Thanks, Mark van der Linden]Continue reading Comcast's next generation Xfinity Spectrum DVR shows off quad tuners, new menu and apps

Original source: Comcast's next generation Xfinity Spectrum DVR shows off quad tuners, new menu and apps

Phone Oximeter saves lives, puts Journey's lawyers on red alert (video)

2011-05-20T11:13:00.003+08:00

We'll be honest with you, we don't know a lot about marketing healthcare devices to everyday people, so perhaps posting a goofy YouTube video with some re-written classic rock songs is standard practice in the industry. Whatever the case, the University of British Columbia's Electrical & Computer Engineering in Medicine team managed to bring its Phone Oximeter to our attention, and all said, this could be a handy little device for monitoring vitals outside a hospital setting. The meter hooks up to a smartphone -- an iPhone for trials, but we're told it works with Android, Windows, and others -- displaying the wearer's blood oxygen level and heart and respiratory rates, and transmitting the readings to the hospital. The department has already done some field testing with the system, trying it out at the Vancouver General Hospital and bringing it to Uganda, where low cost medical devices and Journey spoofs are in high demand. Video probably only meant for its creators' friends and family after the break. [Thanks, Walter]Continue reading Phone Oximeter saves lives, puts Journey's lawyers on red alert (video)

Original source: Phone Oximeter saves lives, puts Journey's lawyers on red alert (video)

Fujitsu to launch 7-inch Android tablet later this year, might be priced lower than $400

2011-05-20T11:13:00.001+08:00

Fresh off the Japanese launch of its LifeBook TH40/D Windows 7 tablet, it appears that Fujitsu is gearing up to release a new seven-inch Android slate. According to DigiTimes, Fujitsu's forthcoming slab is scheduled to hit the market during the third quarter of this year and will run on Android 3.1 Honeycomb. It's unclear whether or not the device will sport the same stylus support and sliding keyboard that its Windows 7 counterpart features, but Fujitsu is reportedly planning on selling the tablet for anywhere between about $350 and $700, which effectively ranges from "bargain" to "blimey." We're certainly hoping that the final price falls on the low end of that spectrum, but we'll have to wait and see if our dreams become a reality.

Original source: Fujitsu to launch 7-inch Android tablet later this year, might be priced lower than $400

Google confirms Android security issue, server-side fix rolling out today

2011-05-19T11:13:00.003+08:00

No Android security flaw is good news for Google, but the recently discovered ClientLogin issue that left the OS vulnerable to impersonation attacks is surely at least a bit more welcome than some of the alternatives. That's because the flaw can be fixed at the server-side level (rather than on millions of Android phones), and Google has now confirmed that a fix is rolling out today, although it may take a few more days for it to cover all users (there's no action required on your part). The company's not quite out of the woods just yet, though -- while we've confirmed with Google that the fix addresses the issues with Calendar and Contacts, the problem with Picasa remains, and there's still no indication of a fix for it. Incidentally, Google had already fixed the Calendar and Contacts issues on the phone-side with Android 2.3.4 (although that still left 99 percent of phones vulnerable), but it too is still stuck with the Picasa vulnerability.

Original source: Google confirms Android security issue, server-side fix rolling out today

PSN logins exploited again, Sony takes pages offline

2011-05-19T11:13:00.001+08:00

This isn't as bad as it could have been -- Sony's PSN hasn't exactly been hacked again -- but what can only be described as a glaring oversight looks to have forced the company into hastily switching off PSN logins on its websites. The issue? If you legitimately forget your password and need to reset it, previously all you had to do was type in your e-mail address and date of birth, then choose a delightfully cunning new password. Sounds good? The problem is that if you were a PSN member before the hack then both your e-mail address and your date of birth (plus a lot of other frightening stuff) is known to the hackers. So, whoever has the millions of rows of data that were exposed could, in theory, re-exploit any account. Sony was made aware of the issue and those pages are now offline again, which should make the Japanese government feel just a little big smug. Update: Sony has confirmed that there was "a URL exploit that we have subsequently fixed." However, the company indicates there was "no hack involved." So, remember kiddies: exploits are not hacks -- not until someone starts having fun with them, anyway.

Original source: PSN logins exploited again, Sony takes pages offline

Sony's Thunderbolt implementation hiding in plain (web)site, uses USB connector not Mini DisplayPort?

2011-05-18T11:13:00.003+08:00

Look closely at that picture. See that Type-A USB jack? The one with the blue stripe sandwiched between the round AC jack (with its green light) and VGA and HDMI ports? Yeah, that's Sony's Thunderbolt implementation according to a trusted source. A bit of digging reveals that the "Ultimate Mobile PC" teased by Sony above is actually the same VAIO Hybrid PC leaked by Sony Insider back in March said to feature an external dock with one USB 3.0 jack, HDMI, Ethernet, AMD Whistler discrete graphics, and a Blu-ray Disc writer. Naturally, the dock attaches to the VAIO's Thunderbolt jack. What we're trying to get our heads around, however, is Sony's choice for a USB connector instead of the Mini DisplayPort used by Apple's dual-channel 10Gbps Thunderbolt implementation. The decision to go USB was first brought to our attention by site Gula Digital. We've long known that Sony would be a Light Peak partner in some capacity. And the decision to go USB certainly echoes those first prototype interconnects demonstrated by Intel that combined a hybrid USB 3.0 connector with an optical interface and electrical connection to carry power. We also like the idea of being able to connect a USB 3.0 hard disk without first attaching an adapter. What troubles us, though, is a statement made by the USB Implementers Forum last summer expressing reservations with Intel's proposed interconnect: "USB connectors are not general purpose connectors and are not designed to be used in support of other technology applications or standards or as combo connectors." Perhaps Sony has worked out a licensing arrangement with the USB-IF? We don't know. But we're told that Sony's Thunderbolt implementation is definitely using a USB connector and definitely not using Mini DisplayPort. But we'll wait until this thing ships before complaining about Thunderbolt fragmentation too loudly.

Original source: Sony's Thunderbolt implementation hiding in plain (web)site, uses USB connector not Mini DisplayPort?

KDDI announces Android-based INFOBAR A01 smartphone with glanceable iida UI

2011-05-18T11:13:00.001+08:00

There's been a few smartphones exclusive to Japan as of late that we'd like to see available over here, but perhaps none more so than KDDI's just-announced INFOBAR A01, which is set to hit the country in July. It runs Android 2.3, but you wouldn't know it from the interface: a completely custom UI designed by Yugo Nakamura that follows some similar glanceable design principles to Windows Phone 7, or what KDDI describes as a "single band of information." The phone is no slouch hardware-wise either -- it boasts a 3.7-inch qHD display (that's about 300 ppi), an 8 megapixel camera, a 1Seg TV tuner, and dual-mode GSM / CDMA connectivity (no word on the processor, unfortunately). As you can see, it also has some tile-like buttons -- a common theme with previous INFOBAR phones -- and it's available in your choice of four different color schemes, no less, along with some optional silicone and leather cases designed to match the phone (by the phone's designer, Naoto Fukasawa, incidentally). Hit up the gallery below for a closer look, and head on past the break for a pair of videos showing the interface in action. Gallery: KDDI INFOBAR A01Continue reading KDDI announces Android-based INFOBAR A01 smartphone with glanceable iida UI

Original source: KDDI announces Android-based INFOBAR A01 smartphone with glanceable iida UI

Microsoft outlines new enterprise features coming to Windows Phone 'Mango'

2011-05-17T11:13:00.003+08:00

When Microsoft takes the stage May 24th to preview the next release of Windows Phone, will there be any surprises left for the peanut gallery? In the last week we've seen numerous features announced or leaked, an awfully big coincidence given the timing of next week's event. More cats were let out of their bags today at Microsoft's annual TechEd conference keynote, as several enterprise-related capabilities were shown off that both companies and consumers have sorely missed on their phones. First up are pinnable email folders, giving users the opportunity to pin a specific folder of higher priority -- such as emails from your boss or wife -- to your start screen. Toss in email threads complete with conversation view, and now Mango is looking even more drool-worthy. But there's more, folks: Exchange users frustrated by online having access to recent correspondence can look forward to server search -- a new function that'll enable you to sift through your entire email collection if need be. Rounding out the grocery list of new updates is Lync support, complex alpha-numeric passcodes for higher security, Information Rights Management support, and -- hallelujah -- the ability to connect to hidden WiFi networks natively. About time, right? Take a peek at the full breakdown of the new features at the source link. Update: Now with video, after the break!Continue reading Microsoft outlines new enterprise features coming to Windows Phone 'Mango'

Original source: Microsoft outlines new enterprise features coming to Windows Phone 'Mango'

Eldar Murtazin: Microsoft will enter negotiations to buy Nokia's mobile division next week

2011-05-17T11:13:00.001+08:00

Yes, this is a rumor, and by golly it strains the limits of credulity, but take note of its source. Firstly, the details: according to Eldar Murtazin, Microsoft and Nokia will enter talks next week to discuss the potential for the American software giant to purchase the Finnish company's mobile arm, meaning the part that makes all those delectable smartphones. Eldar's not been able to dig up any further intel, but expects a deal could be closed as early as the end of this year. We're inclined to believe there's at least some semblance of truth to Eldar's words because of his track record. Way back in December of last year, when nobody believed Nokia would deviate from its Symbian strategy, Eldar reported the similarly incredible-sounding news that Microsoft and Nokia were in discussions about the latter using Windows Phone as its main smartphone OS. That turned into reality this February, and more recently, the Russian mobile spy managed to also accurately predict Nokia killing off the Ovi brand in favor of an eponymous naming scheme for its services. And that's all on top of Eldar's knack for obtaining Nokia prototypes way ahead of release. So, assuming for a moment that Microsoft does indeed have its eyes set on turning Nokia's handset business into its own mobile hardware division, what would it all mean? Well, we can only see this making sense for Espoo if underwritten by a humongous check from Microsoft, but that might not be a problem. The Redmond camp has recently shown its determination to get what it wants by spending $8.5 billion on Skype, and previously offered north of $44 billion for Yahoo, a good deal more than Nokia's total market cap of around $32 billion. Let's not forget, Nokia once used to manufacture galoshes and tires, so it already has a history of transformative change. And hey, having an ex-Microsoft guy at the top means that if this kind of move were to ever happen, now might just be the right time for it. Update: As Reonhato pointed out in comments, Mark Squires, UK Communications Director for Nokia, has already issued an uncharacteristically pointed non-comment. "We typically don't comment on rumors. But we have to say that Eldar's rumors are getting obviously less accurate with every passing moment."

Original source: Eldar Murtazin: Microsoft will enter negotiations to buy Nokia's mobile division next week

PlayStation Network restoration spreads across the world (update)

2011-05-16T11:13:00.003+08:00

Now that North America has been thoroughly blanketed in the beautiful green light of a working PlayStation Network, it's time for other countries to sign on too, and the first out of the gate are the United Kingdom, Ireland and unspecified nations in the Middle East. Sony's official PlayStation Europe Twitter account reports that parts of the EMEA are beginning to light up now, and while there's no convenient map for you to monitor the rollout this time around, you can still get updates straight from the source -- follow the Twitter feed at our source link and Sony should let you know when to get your game on. Update: Looks like it's not just the EMEA, as PSN's spreading across the world -- as of noon PST, it's lighting up the smiles of bereaved gamers and music lovers in Australia, New Zealand, Mexico and South America as well. Update 2: We're hearing that the UK, Ireland and the Middle East actually went dark again for a tad, but now they should be up again. Update 3: Sony's having a bit of difficulty getting millions of passwords reset in such a short time, due to a number of things, including ISPs that are automatically blocking or delaying the huge influx of email password change requests. Give it time, folks.

Original source: PlayStation Network restoration spreads across the world (update)

Microsoft-approved tool fixes your 'walshed' Windows Phone, helps you get official updates once more

2011-05-16T11:13:00.001+08:00

There are certainly advantages to rooting your Windows Phone 7 device, but there's a heck of a downside too -- Microsoft can't update your handset to the latest and greatest build if you've unofficially patched your phone. Good to know, but what if you've already done the deed? That's why you'll want the application above, a ChevronWP7-tested, Microsoft-approved program for pulling your phone out of Bizzaro World and setting things right. Find it at our source link, follow the instructions carefully, and don't fret if the official update doesn't immediately appear after you're done -- developer Chris Walsh says availability of the build depends on carrier approval. [Thanks, Brianna]

Original source: Microsoft-approved tool fixes your 'walshed' Windows Phone, helps you get official updates once more

Workaround brings Netflix to more (rooted) Android users

2011-05-15T11:13:00.003+08:00

We've already had some success getting Netflix for Android up and running on an officially unsupported phone (a Droid X), but those not able to get it to work simply by transferring and installing the .APK now have another option. As some folks on XDA and Reddit have discovered, you can apparently just edit a few system settings to make your phone (or Nook Color, for that matter) think it's actually an HTC G2, which is apparently all it takes to satisfy the Netflix app. It doesn't work with every phone, of course, but quite a few seem to have had success with it. Unfortunately for some, you'll also need to first root your phone in order to make those changes, but the steps are fairly simple once you've done that. Hit up the links below for all the details, and let us know how it worked out for you in the comments below. Just remember: when in doubt, back up.

Original source: Workaround brings Netflix to more (rooted) Android users

Screen Grabs: futuristic Nokia smartphone answers the product placement call in Real Steel

2011-05-15T11:13:00.001+08:00

Screen Grabs chronicles the uses (and misuses) of real-world gadgets in today's movies and TV. Send in your sightings (with screen grab!) to screengrabs at engadget dot com. In the futuristic world of the would-be summer blockbuster Real Steel, Rock 'em Sock 'em-esque robots have become participants in a very real sport and, it seems, Nokia is still going strong -- although you probably knew that if you've seen the latest Star Trek movie. In fact, this device bears more than a small resemblance to the one used by a young James T. Kirk, with it boasting the same translucent shell that encases what's still unmistakably a Nokia design. Head on past the break for the full trailer, and look for the phone to make an appearance around the 16 second mark -- although we wouldn't recommend taking this as a hint of what's to come for Windows Phone.Continue reading Screen Grabs: futuristic Nokia smartphone answers the product placement call in Real Steel

Original source: Screen Grabs: futuristic Nokia smartphone answers the product placement call in Real Steel

HTC Sensation looks to have signed bootloader, custom ROMs look to be bummed

2011-05-14T11:13:00.003+08:00

Did you think maybe HTC would change its ways after locking down the bootloader on the Thunderbolt and Incredible S? Sorry, no. The upcoming Sensation looks to have been similarly afflicted, with Android Police bringing the bad news that its internals are protected by HTC's private key. This will definitely prove to be an issue for those looking to run custom ROMs that are clean as a whistle, but something tells us the hackers shall overcome. They usually do. [Thanks, Foo]

Original source: HTC Sensation looks to have signed bootloader, custom ROMs look to be bummed

Android 3.1 on the Motorola Xoom: hands-on (video)

2011-05-14T11:13:00.001+08:00

That Android 3.1 update that Google announced during I/O is slowly rolling out to 3G Xoom owners as we speak. How'd we know such a thing? Why, it just landed on our in-house Xoom, of course! Most of the changes to Honeycomb are happening under the hood -- better HTML5 support, faster performance, and USB host functionality for connecting peripherals like game controllers and mice -- but there are some improvements that will be a lot more obvious to the user. Perhaps our favorite is the addition of resizable widgets. For the moment only the email and Gmail inbox, calendar and bookmarks widgets can be stretched or shrunk, but we're sure others will follow. We're particularly appreciative of the expandable calendar widget, which always felt a tad cramped. The task switcher also received a much requested upgrade and now lets you scroll through your last 18 launched apps, instead of just the five most recent. Lastly, the Android Market now offers movie rentals, alongside books and apps, which range in price from $1.99 to $4.99 for 24 hours of playback. There isn't a ton of revolutionary stuff going on here, but it's certainly a welcome and worthwhile update. Check out the video after the break to see Android 3.1 in action.Continue reading Android 3.1 on the Motorola Xoom: hands-on (video)

Original source: Android 3.1 on the Motorola Xoom: hands-on (video)

Google and iRobot team up to put Android apps on Ava telepresence bot

2011-05-13T11:13:00.001+08:00

Remember that Ava telepresence bot that we were gaga over at CES? Well Google has decided to lend iRobot a hand in getting the tablet-topped automaton rolling with some Android apps. The two companies have teamed up to create Ava specific programs that can be run from an Android slate perched on the extending neck of this silicon-brained companion. Apparently any 'ol tablet will do, so you'll still be able to play Angry Birds, but where's the fun in that? The exciting stuff will be apps that can communicate with the robot and pass it directions, meaning we need to figure out what our new, mechanical best friends should do for us. We've already got plenty of options for killing and beer serving -- how about one that folds our laundry? Oh, wait. Well, we'll think of something. While we ponder you check out Ava's cameo at Google I/O and the PR after the break.Continue reading Google and iRobot team up to put Android apps on Ava telepresence bot

Original source: Google and iRobot team up to put Android apps on Ava telepresence bot

Samsung Galaxy Tab 2.3.3 Gingerbread update begins international rollout

2011-05-13T11:13:00.000+08:00

Look, we know all this Honeycomb and Ice Cream Sandwich talk can get you down original Galaxy Tab owners. Unfortunately, that's the risk of being an early adopter. Now chin up, Samsung has just started dribbling out the Gingerbread 2.3.3 update to Italian Tab owners. The update, when it arrives in your location, will be available in Kies as firmware/baseband version P1000XXJQ1/P1000XXJPZ. Those less patient can always jump into the forums of course, and take their chances with a manual download and install. We won't tell. [Thanks, Greg]

Original source: Samsung Galaxy Tab 2.3.3 Gingerbread update begins international rollout

Third Rail iPhone case has detachable battery, probably won't electrocute you

2011-05-12T11:13:00.001+08:00

For humans, coming into contact with the third rail will likely void your personal lifetime warranty, but one accessory manufacturer hopes to apply a similar concept to your iPhone -- in much smaller doses, of course. For $90, the Third Rail System includes an iPhone 4 Slim Case, which always surrounds your device, and a 1250 mAh Smart Battery that you can slide into place whenever you need a boost. The removable batteries can charge other devices over micro USB, and can be stacked up to four deep for charging multiple gadgets at once (at $60 a pop). It's also designed to be compatible with future cases, negating the need to purchase another complete solution each time you upgrade your phone. We'd love to see a similar device that includes inductive charging as well, but for now, this is one of the most intuitive external battery solutions we've seen.Continue reading Third Rail iPhone case has detachable battery, probably won't electrocute you

Original source: Third Rail iPhone case has detachable battery, probably won't electrocute you

Sand-swimming robot gets vertical manipulation via doorstop-shaped head (video)

2011-05-12T11:13:00.000+08:00

So it looks like a half-stuffed sock -- and it is, sort of -- but this sandfish-inspired search and rescue robot has the potential to change the way machines maneuver through disaster zones. Playing off its previous endeavors, a team of Georgia Tech researchers has designed a wedge-shaped head to manipulate the vertical movement of its sand-swimming invention through "complex dirt and rubble environments." By mimicking the pointy snout of the sandfish lizard, and attaching it to the body of its robot -- which sports seven servo-powered segments stuffed in a latex sock and sheathed by a spandex "swimsuit" -- the team found that subtle changes in the positioning of the robot's head made for drastic differences in vertical movement. When it was placed flat on the horizontal plane, the robot descended; when it was inclined above seven degrees, it ascended. For now, the robotic sandfish has been relegated to swimming in a sea of tiny yellow balls, but it's slated to dive into a pool of debris in the name of research soon. You can check out a rather dry description of the project in the video after the break.Continue reading Sand-swimming robot gets vertical manipulation via doorstop-shaped head (video)

Original source: Sand-swimming robot gets vertical manipulation via doorstop-shaped head (video)

Google reaches 100 millionth Android activation, 400,000 Android devices activated daily

2011-05-11T11:13:00.002+08:00

36 OEMs, 215 carriers, 450,000 Android developers all over the world, Google wants to say "thank you!" Android has recently crossed its 100 millionth activation milestone, and is also growing at its fastest pace yet: 400,000 devices activated each and every day. There are now 200,000 Android applications in the Market, which have accumulated a total of 4.5 billion installs, at a rate which Google actually says is accelerating. These figures have all been cited as a way to illustrate Google's mobile momentum, which is evidently not even thinking about slowing down.

Original source: Google reaches 100 millionth Android activation, 400,000 Android devices activated daily

Microsoft's Bill Buxton exhibits gadget collection 35 years in the making

2011-05-10T11:13:00.003+08:00

You don't get to be Microsoft's Principal Researcher without a strong sense of technology and design history, and Bill Buxton certainly has plenty of evidence to show he's well qualified in that respect. That swath of devices pictured above is just a sample of the impressive gadget collection Buxton has amassed over the past 35 years, which he is now exhibiting in public for the first time at a conference in Vancouver, British Columbia this week. Not able to check it out in person? Then you can thankfully settle for the next best thing, as Microsoft Research has also put the entire collection online, complete with Buxton's own notes for each of the items (which range from Etch-a-Sketches to watches to a range of different input devices). Hit up the source link below to start browsing.Continue reading Microsoft's Bill Buxton exhibits gadget collection 35 years in the making

Original source: Microsoft's Bill Buxton exhibits gadget collection 35 years in the making

Apple brand valued at $153 billion, scoots ahead of Google for first place

2011-05-10T11:13:00.001+08:00

What is the world's most valuable consumer-facing brand? If you'd asked the guys behind the BrandZ survey at any point over the last four years, they'd have told you "Google," but in 2011 their answer has changed. Apple is now the hottest property in terms of consumer goodwill, earning an estimated valuation of $153.3 billion and leading a pack that includes the likes of Coca-Cola, BMW, HSBC, and Disney. The tech sector had a very strong year as a whole, with Facebook's brand improving in value by a staggering 246 percent (to $19.1b) and Amazon becoming the world's most valuable retailer (at $37.6b) in spite of having no actual stores. Sadly, there were some downers too, as Nintendo lost 37 percent of its brand worth over the past year, Nokia dropped by 28 percent, and the BlackBerry marque was considered 20 percent less awesome than before. Punch the source link to learn more. [Thanks, Bruce]

Original source: Apple brand valued at $153 billion, scoots ahead of Google for first place

Switched On: RIM's shot

2011-05-09T11:13:00.003+08:00

Each week Ross Rubin contributes Switched On, a column about consumer technology. Much like their home countries, Apple and RIM share much in common, but contrast in important ways. Both companies are among the few that produce their own software for their cellular handsets. Apple, a personal computing pioneer, sees market expansion in smartphones. RIM, a smartphone pioneer, sees market expansion in mobile computing. Looking at the tablets on offer, Apple has been just as adamant in decrying a 7-inch display as RIM has been defending it, the latter saying that it sought to create an ultramobile device with the PlayBook. Apple designs products for consumers that have relevance for enterprises. RIM designs products for enterprises that have relevance for consumers. This has also been evident with the PlayBook, which has taken heat for its lack of native e-mail and calendaring options. RIM consciously put these on the back burner because it wanted to appease CIOs concerned about data theft, even though it meant a less appealing launch product for consumers. Another parallel: RIM has suffered as AT&T delays in supporting Bridge, just as Apple struggled with AT&T supporting tethering on the iPhone.Continue reading Switched On: RIM's shot

Original source: Switched On: RIM's shot

Microsoft patent details a 3D desktop interface with a room for your windows

2011-05-09T11:13:00.001+08:00

Many have tried and failed to bring a 3D desktop interface to an otherwise 2D operating system, but that certainly hasn't stopped others from trying. The latest example to crop up comes courtesy of none other than Microsoft, which recently received a patent for what it describes as a "method and apparatus for providing a three-dimensional task gallery computer interface." In other words, it's an interface intended to help you better manage multiple tasks, which the patent suggests could be done in a 3D environment with a floor, walls and a ceiling. Apparently, you'd be able to group multiple windows at various spots in the "room," which would let you rely on your spatial memory to easily find a given task -- with the room getting deeper and deeper to accommodate more tasks. In the patent's claims, the only means described for navigating around that room is a set of icons that would adjust to suit the 3D environment, although it certainly seems like it could easily be adapted to accommodate gesture controls as well. Hit up the source link below for plenty more line drawings where this one came from.

Original source: Microsoft patent details a 3D desktop interface with a room for your windows

Apple to distribute OS X Lion via the Mac App Store

2011-05-08T11:13:00.003+08:00

Apple this Summer is expected to release Mac OS X Lion. As opposed to other OS X releases,Â however, Lion willÂ also be available for purchase via the Mac App Store.

Original source: Apple to distribute OS X Lion via the Mac App Store

Rand McNally's TripMaker RVND 5510 promises RV-easy navigation, Robin Williams at extra charge

2011-05-08T11:13:00.001+08:00

Are you a mild-mannered California beverage executive tired of having your family vacations degenerate into antics? Do you feel like every time you try to clean the sewage system of your Recreational Vehicle, some (admittedly hilarious) fecal-matter-related mishap occurs? Well, we can't help you with that, honestly, but we can point you toward Rand McNally's TripMaker RVND 5510 -- "the first navigation device designed specifically for RVers." This isn't for supervans or campers: it's for RVs, son, whether they be an Airstream, a Monaco, a sweet South Korean custom job or a hippified veggie-RV. The 5510 features RV-easy GPS routing, keeping you safe and legal on the road. It also has over 14 million points of interest, helping you find everything from campsites to the nearest animal hospital. And its Best of the Road feature threatens to turn your trip into a memorable adventure. The TripMaker RVND 5510 retails for $350 and ships to North America in June (just in time for road trip season) and yes, includes support for Canadian French.Continue reading Rand McNally's TripMaker RVND 5510 promises RV-easy navigation, Robin Williams at extra charge

Original source: Rand McNally's TripMaker RVND 5510 promises RV-easy navigation, Robin Williams at extra charge

IDC: smartphone market grows 80 percent year-on-year, Samsung shipments rise 350 percent

2011-05-07T11:13:00.003+08:00

Smartphones are getting kind of popular nowadays, in case you hadn't noticed. The latest figures from IDC show a 79.7 percent expansion of the global smartphone market between this time last year and today, which has resulted in 99.6 million such devices being shipped in Q1 of 2011. That growth has mostly been driven by Samsung, which has more than quadrupled its output to 10.8 million shipments in the quarter, and HTC, whose growth has been almost as impressive. The other big gainer is Apple, with 10 million more iPhones shipped, but the truth is that all the top five vendors are showing double-digit growth. In spite of Nokia losing a big chunk of market share and RIM being demoted from second to third in the ranking, both of those old guard manufacturers improved on their quarterly totals. IDC puts this strength in demand down to the relatively unsaturated smartphone marketplace, and believes there's "ample room for several suppliers to comfortably co-exist," before ominously adding, "at least for the short term." And after the short term, our break-dancing robot overlords take over. Update: IDC has also released data for Western Europe that shows Nokia has lost the top spot both in terms of smartphones, to Apple, and in terms of overall mobile phone shipments, to Samsung.Continue reading IDC: smartphone market grows 80 percent year-on-year, Samsung shipments rise 350 percent

Original source: IDC: smartphone market grows 80 percent year-on-year, Samsung shipments rise 350 percent

OtherOS++ brings Linux back to the PS3, taunts Sony

2011-05-07T11:13:00.001+08:00

Mourn no more PS3 owners: what Sony hath taken away, the hacker community has given right back. The team at Gitbrew.org have returned Linux to the Cell-based gaming console with OtherOS++, which boasts a number of benefits over Sony's official stab at supporting other operating systems. For one, Linux is no longer relegated to a performance-degrading virtual machine and has full access to the PS3 hardware, and two, it works on both old-school "fat" models and the newer "slim" ones. We warn you, though -- this install is not for the faint of heart, and some older models that use NAND flash instead of VFLASH aren't compatible (check against this list). If you're undeterred, hit up the source link for downloads, instructions, and (most importantly) to stick it to the man.

Original source: OtherOS++ brings Linux back to the PS3, taunts Sony

Intel refreshes Wireless Display with support for DRM-protected DVDs, Blu-rays

2011-05-06T11:13:00.003+08:00

We were bowled over from the start by Intel's Wireless Display technology, which lets you stream HD content from select laptops to an HDTV (with the help of a small adapter, of course). But while WiDi's been good for watching The Colbert Report on Hulu and streaming flicks stored on your hard drive, it hasn't played so nice with DVDs and Blu-rays. At last, though, Intel is supporting HDCP-protected discs (along with some online content) through a free driver update. One catch: it only applies to Sandy Bridge laptops, which just started shipping this spring. If your notebook's a few months too old, well, using an HDMI cable isn't the worst consolation prize.

Original source: Intel refreshes Wireless Display with support for DRM-protected DVDs, Blu-rays

Sprint / Google Voice integration has major issues, major lack of support

2011-05-06T11:13:00.001+08:00

Have you tried Sprint's new Google Voice integration? We know a lot of our readers have -- and many of them have had problems, writing in to us to express their displeasure. We started investigating and found a hoard of complaints, and the deeper we looked, the more issues we found. To make matters worse, Sprint has instructed its representatives to refer all Google Voice-related questions to the Google Voice Forum, which for reasons that frustrate us as much as you, Google itself seems to have forgotten exists. Join us for a full investigation into the issues, including voicemail security holes, accounts accidentally crippled by Sprint, and calls overseas that'll leave you swimming in usage fees.Continue reading Sprint / Google Voice integration has major issues, major lack of support

Original source: Sprint / Google Voice integration has major issues, major lack of support

NVIDIA losing ground to AMD and Intel in GPU market share

2011-05-05T11:13:00.002+08:00

NVIDIA may be kicking all kinds of tail on the mobile front with its ubiquitous Tegra 2 chipset, but back on its home turf of laptop and desktop graphics, things aren't looking so hot. The latest figures from Jon Peddie Research show that the GPU giant has lost 2.5 percentage points of its market share and now accounts for exactly a fifth of graphics chips sold on x86 devices. That's a hefty drop from last year's 28.4 percent slice, and looks to have been driven primarily by sales of cheaper integrated GPUs, such as those found inside Intel's Clarkdale, Arrandale, and most recently, Sandy Bridge processors. AMD's introduction of Fusion APUs that combine general and graphics processing into one has also boosted its fortunes, resulting in 13.3 percent growth in sales relative to the previous quarter and a 15.4 percent increase year-on-year. Of course, the real profits are to be made in the discrete graphics card market, where NVIDIA remains highly competitive, but looking at figures like these shows quite clearly why NVIDIA is working on an ARM CPU for the desktop -- its long-term survival depends on it.

Original source: NVIDIA losing ground to AMD and Intel in GPU market share

Sony responds to Congress: all 77 million PSN accounts compromised, finger pointed at Anonymous

2011-05-05T11:13:00.001+08:00

We've heard Sony explain itself at length regarding the gigantic PlayStation Network breach, but this might be the most useful version of the story yet -- it's the one that Sony's Kaz Hirai is forwarding to US Congress members concerned about your personal information. The official PlayStation.Blog has the full English document up on Flickr for your perusal, and we'll warn you it's much the same tale -- Sony says all 77 million PSN and Qriocity accounts have had information stolen, but the company's still not sure exactly which pieces have gone missing, whether credit card numbers are compromised or not, or who could be behind the hack. Sony does say, however, that it had 12.3 million credit card numbers on file, and 5.6 million of them from the US, and that investigators found a file on one of the servers named "Anonymous" with the words "We are Legion" inside it. Hard to draw many conclusions from that.

Original source: Sony responds to Congress: all 77 million PSN accounts compromised, finger pointed at Anonymous

Android apps on PlayBook eyes-on (video)

2011-05-04T11:13:00.002+08:00

We knew it was coming, but today at BlackBerry World 2011 we were treated to a demo of Android apps running natively on the PlayBook. The end result isn't too far removed from what we saw with Myriad's Alien Dalvik at Mobile World Congress. Android's menu and home buttons are emulated using the standard PlayBook gestures, and the back button is replaced with an on-screen softkey. Of course, you'll have to visit App World to download Android apps for the PlayBook when the Android Player (as it's called) finally becomes available. And speaking of Android apps, the wildly popular Angry Birds is coming to the PlayBook as a native game - no cross-platform trickery required.

Original source: Android apps on PlayBook eyes-on (video)

Tiny CrazyFlie quadrocopter piloted by Playstation controller, does not run Doom (video)

2011-05-04T11:13:00.001+08:00

While autonomous quadrocopters are quietly evolving into Hunter-Killers, there's still one who just wants to be your friend and playmate. Meet CrazyFlie, a tiny (so tiny!) chopper you can hold in the palm of your fleshy, human hand. Built by the trio of hackers at Daedalus Projects, on a printed circuit board that weighs just 20 grams and spans eight centimeters, it's piloted using a Bluetooth Playstation controller; the onboard Cortex-M3 CPU keeps it flying stable by monitoring gyroscopes and accelerometers and adjusting rotor speed accordingly. Enjoy its adorable, gnat-like whirring in the video after the break, and the source link includes a detailed build diary for the truly ambitious.Continue reading Tiny CrazyFlie quadrocopter piloted by Playstation controller, does not run Doom (video)

Original source: Tiny CrazyFlie quadrocopter piloted by Playstation controller, does not run Doom (video)

iOS 4.3.3 rumored to be coming within next two weeks with fix for location tracking issue

2011-05-03T11:13:00.003+08:00

Apple promised last week that it would address the iPhone tracking issue in a software update in the "next few weeks," and BGR is now reporting that the update is coming within the next two weeks, or "possibly sooner." What's more, the site says that it's actually been sent an early version of the iOS update, and that it does indeed no longer back up the location database to iTunes -- the size of the database is also said to be reduced, and it's apparently deleted altogether when Location Services are turned off. Somewhat notably, BGR says that the update includes some further battery life improvements as well, although it also notes that it hasn't actually tried it out just yet -- it is promising additional details, though.

Original source: iOS 4.3.3 rumored to be coming within next two weeks with fix for location tracking issue

iOS 4.3.3 rumored to be coming within next two weeks with fix for location tracking issue

2011-05-03T11:13:00.001+08:00

Original source: iOS 4.3.3 rumored to be coming within next two weeks with fix for location tracking issue

Why Location Will be the Killer App of the 2012 Elections

2011-05-02T11:13:00.003+08:00

Location-based services will change the landscape of all elections to come.

Original source: Why Location Will be the Killer App of the 2012 Elections

Desk Phone Dock review

2011-05-02T11:13:00.001+08:00

With every passing day, more people are ditching their landlines in favor of using their cellular phones as a combination device. Smartphones are no doubt excellent means of contacting other humans and managing our lives, but some of us miss the simpler days -- when a phone was just a phone. If you're a proud owner of an iPhone but looking to head down the retro road, Kee Utility would like to point you in the right direction. When we first saw the Desk Phone Dock, we were pretty intrigued by its looks but had questions about its practicality. What you see here is the $150 answer. Keep reading to see how well we got on with it. Gallery: Kee Desk Phone Dock ReviewContinue reading Desk Phone Dock review

Original source: Desk Phone Dock review

Verizon says it will put location warning labels on all phones sold

2011-05-01T11:13:00.002+08:00

See that rather ominous warning label above? That's a new sticker that will soon be placed directly on the screen of every new device Verizon Wireless sells. Contrary to what you might suspect, however, that's not being done in response to the most recent iPhone 4 tracking fiasco. The label was revealed in a letter to Representatives Ed Markey and Joe Barton, who themselves sent a letter to Verizon (and the three other major carriers) on March 29th inquiring about a New York Times story that raised concerns about how carriers collect and store personal location data. As for the other carriers' responses, they apparently aren't going as far as Verizon has with its warning label, but they do mostly echo Verizon's response in other respects. They all say, for instance, that personal data is secured by a variety of means and stored only as long as needed (which can apparently vary by carrier, though), that they don't rent or sell personal information, and that they request customer consent before accessing location data. Despite those assurances, however, Rep. Markey says he's still left with a "feeling of uneasiness and uncertainty," and he's pointing a finger at third-party developers in particular, who he says must be held "accountable."

Original source: Verizon says it will put location warning labels on all phones sold

Verizon says it will put location warning labels on all phones sold

2011-05-01T11:13:00.001+08:00

Original source: Verizon says it will put location warning labels on all phones sold

Xcom Global's international MiFi rentals getting cheaper, Eurotrips making a comeback

2011-04-30T11:13:00.003+08:00

No sense in beating around the proverbial bush -- we're huge fans of Xcom Global's business model, and frankly, we're saddened that every single nation in the world isn't yet included in its list of supported countries. For those hearing the name for the first time, you'll be doing yourself a solid by catching up with our review of the service, which enables jetsetters to rent MiFis or USB WWAN devices for international destinations before taking off. The end result is an always-on data connection for a reasonable fee (read: no roaming), and it looks as if those fees are about to shrink in the coming months. The company has informed us that it'll be previewing "membership pricing" starting next month, giving consumers the ability to pick up a MiFi for $14.95 per day or a USB WWAN dongle for $12.95 per day. The real story, however, is this: second MiFis for two-country itineraries will no longer incur an additional fee, and if you're setting out on a bona fide Eurotrip, every MiFi beyond that will ring up as a flat $30 fee regardless of trip length. We're told that the pricing scheme will be fully revealed in June, and that it's a permanent endeavor as opposed to a trial run. Membership itself will also be free, and while we're still holding out hope that Xcom can nail down a global MiFi solution, these pricing tweaks will certainly make it easy to nation-hop while across the pond.

Original source: Xcom Global's international MiFi rentals getting cheaper, Eurotrips making a comeback

Xoom Camera Connection Kit makes us lust for Photoshop on Honeycomb

2011-04-30T11:13:00.001+08:00

Soon enough you'll be able to transfer photos from your digital camera straight to your Xoom, provided you're willing to shell out $20 for the Xoom Camera Connection Kit. We already knew that the tablet was capable of reading USB drives with a little trickery, but Motorola's upcoming update will officially unlock that functionality (albeit in a limited form). The glorified micro-USB cable isn't available online yet, but we've heard if you call Verizon and ask nicely for item number MOTMZ600ADPKIT they're more than happy to send one your way. If asking for a random series of letters and numbers seems a little strange, just pretend you're a secret agent and it's some kind of cipher -- preferably one that doesn't remind you to drink your Ovaltine.

Original source: Xoom Camera Connection Kit makes us lust for Photoshop on Honeycomb

iPhone turntable concept brings dropped calls to your record collection

2011-04-29T11:13:00.003+08:00

Any audiophile worth their weight in 180 gram vinyl will gladly tell you that nothing sounds quite as good as a record. Unfortunately, the format has a few major drawbacks, like a lack of portability and the fact that it really sucks at making phone calls. The iPhone, on the other hand, is light years ahead of those fronts -- well, one of out two ain't bad. This new concept from designer Olivier Meynard offers the best of both worlds, embedding a horizontal iPhone dock next to a wheel of steel, so you can play back your favorite LP through the built-in speakers and encode those tracks as MP3s, which are uploaded to your handset as it charges. Finally, a way to turn your long out of print prog rock albums into ringtones, as they were meant to be heard.

Original source: iPhone turntable concept brings dropped calls to your record collection

Android 3.1 gets namechecked by Adobe Flash Player 10.2, will be required to enjoy accelerated 720p video

2011-04-29T11:13:00.001+08:00

Remember how Adobe said Flash 10.2 wasn't living up to its full hardware-accelerated potential on Honeycomb thus far? Well, it seems the company's found a solution by the name of Android 3.1. We've been inundated with tips (and have confirmed with Adobe) that there's a sticky-sweet new build of Android on the way for the recent crop of slates that OEMs and carriers are rolling out, and that -- just like last time -- you'll need that software to take advantage of all the hardware rendering and compositing that your Tegra 2 silicon can afford. With any luck, 720p playback won't burn our eyeballs this time around. By the way, the Android Market item above was updated this morning to read "requires an upcoming release of Android 3" rather than "Android 3.1," but it's unclear whether the original number was inaccurate or whether Adobe got in trouble. [Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Original source: Android 3.1 gets namechecked by Adobe Flash Player 10.2, will be required to enjoy accelerated 720p video

Apple confirms it's working on a traffic service, moving away from Google Maps?

2011-04-28T11:13:00.002+08:00

It wasn't the main thrust of its "Q&A on Location Data" this morning, but Apple did also make a bit of news while it tried to ease those privacy concerns about how it's handling your data. The company says it "is now collecting anonymous traffic data to build a crowd-sourced traffic database," and that it's hoping to provide iPhone users with an "improved traffic service in the next couple of years." It didn't divulge much more than that, unfortunately, but that little detail lines up with some other navigation-related developments out of the company as of late. It acquired web mapping firm Poly9 last July (in addition to Google Maps rival Placebase in late 2009), and just last month a couple of job postings revealed that it was looking for folks to "radically improve" the iOS Maps experience. Add all those together and it's starting to look an awful lot like a shift away from Google Maps in favor of an all-Apple solution -- much like how the company relied on Skyhook until it could roll its own WiFi geolocation service.

Original source: Apple confirms it's working on a traffic service, moving away from Google Maps?

Sony update on PSN / Qriocity outage: 'some services up and running within a week'

2011-04-28T11:13:00.001+08:00

As the PlayStation Network / Qriocity outage stretches into its second week, over on the PlayStation Blog rep Patrick Seybold has just posted an updated Q&A based on the inquiries of concerned users. Beyond the security of our personal information, the most important question is when service might be restored and he reiterates Sony expects to have "some services" up and running within a week from yesterday. When it comes to the most important personal information like credit card numbers, there are assurances that the credit card database was encrypted and there is no evidence anything was taken, but that's a possibility that still cannot be ruled out completely. To keep things secure, Gamasutra reports game developers are getting new SDKs with updated security features as well. When the service comes back up, expect a mandatory system update that requires a new password before getting back to your Mortal Kombat or Portal 2-related plans.

Original source: Sony update on PSN / Qriocity outage: 'some services up and running within a week'

Sony S1 and S2 dual-screen Honeycomb tablets get official (video)

2011-04-27T11:13:00.003+08:00

Sony's hosting a press event in Tokyo today where it just made the first announcement: a pair of Android 3.0 tablets -- yes, the very two Honeycomb slabs we told you about exclusively back in February. The first is the Qriocity-focused 9.4-inch S1 media tablet with both front- and rear-facing cameras and a curved wrap design that resembles a folded magazine. The S1 features a Tegra 2 SoC and customized "Quick and Smooth" touch panel UI with "Swift" web browser. It can also be used as a remote control for Sony gear thanks to integrated infrared. The second tablet is the dual-screen S2 clamshell with its pair of 5.5-inch 1,024 x 480 pixel displays, Tegra 2 SoC, and camera. While it sounds bulky, Kunimasa Suzuki just pulled the hinged tablet from his jacket pocket on stage. Sony takes advantage of the two screens with a custom book-style UI layout for its e-reader app, split keyboard and messaging displays for email, and split display and game controllers for PS One gaming. Both the S1 and S2 are PlayStation Certified, support DLNA, and are WiFi and 3G/4G "compatible" according to Sony. See the Sony tablets codenamed "S1" and "S2" in action after the break on their way to a global release in the fall -- possibly sooner in the US. P.S. While the company isn't ready to talk prices yet, our sources told us back in February that Sony was considering a $599 MSRP on the S1 while the S2 would likely come in at $699. Still no word on the Windows 7 slider but with the other two leaks official, it's now only a matter of time. Gallery: Sony S1 and S2 dual-screen Honeycomb tablets get official Gallery: Sony S1 and S2 tablets press shots Gallery: Sony S1 and S2 tablets eyes-onContinue reading Sony S1 and S2 dual-screen Honeycomb tablets get official (video)

Original source: Sony S1 and S2 dual-screen Honeycomb tablets get official (video)

ChargePoint lets you reserve electric charging stations, cuts down on alternative fueling fistfights

2011-04-27T11:13:00.001+08:00

One day in the future, we'll all drive around in electric cars and gas pumps will be replaced by clean charging stations. Also, free ice cream. Until then, get in line -- or better yet, reserve a spot online courtesy of ChargePoint's online database of alternative fueling stations. The Coulomb Technologies-run site displays charging stations on a Google Map, with a colored pin letting you know in real-time whether someone is currently topping off their Tesla. If you're the type with foresight -- you did buy an electric car, after all -- you can schedule some quality time with an outlet on the site using your ChargePass card. The cost of charging is determined by the station's manager, and appointments can be cancelled up to 24 hours in advance. The site has some serious competition on the EV charging map, courtesy of the newly launched GeoEVSE, a collaboration between US Department of Energy, Google, and 80 other companies. Maybe the new reservations feature will help ChargePoint win the race to your heart.Continue reading ChargePoint lets you reserve electric charging stations, cuts down on alternative fueling fistfights

Original source: ChargePoint lets you reserve electric charging stations, cuts down on alternative fueling fistfights

Editorial: Hey Apple, why does it take an hour to put an album on my iPod?

2011-04-26T11:13:00.003+08:00

This one's been a long time comin', but the iTunes forced backup / syncing issue is no less real today than it was a decade ago when iTunes began to play a larger-than-life role in the operation of Apple's iDevices. As it stands, it's effectively impossible to use an iPhone, iPad or iPod without also using iTunes, and while Apple's done an exemplary job ensuring that it works with most major platforms (yes, Windows included), there's one nagging question that just won't go away: why?Continue reading Editorial: Hey Apple, why does it take an hour to put an album on my iPod?

Original source: Editorial: Hey Apple, why does it take an hour to put an album on my iPod?

Leaked photos reveal purported Apple iPhone prototype on T-Mobile

2011-04-26T11:13:00.001+08:00

Leaked photos supposedly of a prototype iPhone indicate that Apple may be testing the smartphone on the T-Mobile USA network, a new report claims.

Original source: Leaked photos reveal purported Apple iPhone prototype on T-Mobile

Visualized: a Foxconn worker walks into an Apple store...

2011-04-25T11:13:00.003+08:00

... and thinks, "I should ask for another raise."

Original source: Visualized: a Foxconn worker walks into an Apple store...

Could the iPhone 5 look like a beveled iPod touch?

2011-04-25T11:13:00.001+08:00

See that up there? That could be your next iPhone -- or it could be a tear-shaped dream. It's a mock-up of what is said to be the iPhone 5, according to anonymous sources quoted by Joshua Topolsky. A continuation of the concepts laid out in our post-CES look at what's next for Apple, the design here is said to be thin, metal-backed, tapered, and sporting a 3.7-inch display with the same 960 x 640 resolution in the iPhone 4's retina display -- resulting in a slight drop from that phone's vaunted 326ppi density. The home button is quite obviously enlarged, possibly adding some thumbable gestures into the mix. Internals are said to include a "swipable" area, possibly meaning NFC, along with a Qualcomm Gobi chipset with support for CDMA and GSM, so this could be the one phone to rule all the carriers. Or, it might wind up only ever having domain over a single .PSD file. To us, well, it looks a little too thin to be packing all that and a bag of antennas as suggested and, with all the weight at the top, we can see these things flying out of hands left and right. But, we're certainly willing to be surprised. Place your bets in comments below. Update: The source has been updated with a note indicating that the bevel may be "a little exaggerated" in the above mock-up and that the back may not be metal after all.

Original source: Could the iPhone 5 look like a beveled iPod touch?

Could the iPhone 5 look like a beveled iPod touch?

2011-04-24T11:13:00.003+08:00

Original source: Could the iPhone 5 look like a beveled iPod touch?

Norio Ohga, former Sony chairman and multimedia pioneer, dies at 81

2011-04-24T11:13:00.001+08:00

There's more sad news out of Japan this morning, we're afraid -- Sony is reporting that former chairman Norio Ohga passed away in Tokyo yesterday from multiple organ failure. He was 81. You may not personally remember a Sony under his reign -- Ohga directly helmed the company from 1982 to 1995 after decades of service in product planning -- but Norio Ohga was arguably the man responsible for turning Sony from a high-profile analog electronics manufacturer into a digital multimedia conglomerate. He helmed the deals that formed Sony Music, paved the way for Sony Pictures and established the very same Sony Computer Entertainment that would birth the PlayStation, and it was he who pushed the optical compact disc standard that all but replaced the magnetic cassettes and diskettes that held portable media. Without him, DVDs and Blu-rays might have fallen by the wayside, and that's another thought that brings tears to our eyes. You'll find Ohga's official obituary after the break.Continue reading Norio Ohga, former Sony chairman and multimedia pioneer, dies at 81

Original source: Norio Ohga, former Sony chairman and multimedia pioneer, dies at 81

SA Photonics high-res digital night vision system makes you look like Hello Kitty's cyborg cousin

2011-04-23T11:13:00.003+08:00

Given, it might make you look like the love child of Robocop and a cartoon kitten, but SA Photonics' High Resolution Night Vision System (HRNVS) could mean smoother night flights for the US military. The light weight head mounted display couples high resolution imagery and an impressive 82.5 degree field of vision -- previous devices offered a range of only 40 degrees. What's more, it provides clearer peripheral vision, virtually non-existent halo effects, digital image enhancement, and night vision recording. The headset was designed in collaboration with the US Army and the Air Force Research Laboratory, which means these robo Sanrio helmets might actually get some play. Full PR after the break.Continue reading SA Photonics high-res digital night vision system makes you look like Hello Kitty's cyborg cousin

Original source: SA Photonics high-res digital night vision system makes you look like Hello Kitty's cyborg cousin

DirecTV's iPad, iPhone, Android apps will (NOT) have HBO Go streaming May 2nd (Update)

2011-04-23T11:13:00.001+08:00

Just like the web versions of HBO Go and Max Go are accessible both through their own sites and various provider portals, DirecTV has announced it will include access to them in its own apps on iPad, iPhone and "select Android devices" at the same time native Go apps launch. There's no word on what restrictions may be placed on Android, if it's just Froyo or higher hardware with Flash accessibility, then that's one thing, but Netflix-style DRM tie ups could prove to be much more frustrating to our Game of Thrones streaming plans. The announcement came from DirecTV's official Twitter account which indicated the apps would progress beyond mere remote control and DVR scheduling on the same May 2nd date previously teased in HBO's YouTube trailer -- we'll wait and see how long it takes to be integrated into similar apps from competitors like Comcast and Verizon FiOS. Update: We've just heard from DirecTV that this was a "mistweet", as it turns out they won't be adding HBO Go access through their own apps and DirecTV customers will have to use the native HBO Go app just like everyone else. Check the @DirecTV account for the latest tweets, we'll put this one on the shelf next to the DirecTiVo for now.

Original source: DirecTV's iPad, iPhone, Android apps will (NOT) have HBO Go streaming May 2nd (Update)

Verizon CFO suggests next iPhone will be a 'global device'

2011-04-22T11:13:00.003+08:00

We're guessing it wasn't on the company's agenda for its earnings call earlier today, but Verizon CFO Fran Shammo let slip one other interesting iPhone tidbit in addition to its news of 2.2 million iPhone 4 activations. Here's what he said: The fluctuation, I believe, will come when a new device from Apple is launched, whenever that may be, and that we will be, on the first time, on equal footing with our competitors on a new phone hitting the market, which will also be a global device. That pretty clearly suggests that the next iPhone -- supposedly coming in September -- will be a world phone, which just so happens to coincide with rumors to same effect we've heard as recently as this week. Of course, there's been talk of a dual-mode GSM / CDMA iPhone even before that, considering that the Qualcomm baseband chip used in the Verizon iPhone is technically capable of supporting both CDMA and GSM networks -- Apple simply chose not to or wasn't able to take advantage of that particular functionality at the time.

Original source: Verizon CFO suggests next iPhone will be a 'global device'

Apple Stores stocking Square credit card readers

2011-04-22T11:13:00.001+08:00

Jack Dorsey's über-popular credit card readers got a big thumbs-up from Cupertino this week. Square's devices are hitting Apple's 235 US retail locations and Apple.com for $9.95 a pop -- plus the 2.75 percent that the startup takes off the backend each time you use the reader -- or you can always just sign up for a free one over on Square's site. The iPhone / iPad / iPod touch plug-in accepts Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and yes, even American Express. The CEO of VeriFone will no doubt have plenty to say about the matter. Update: It turns out you get a $10 redemption code in the box when you buy a Square reader at an Apple store, so it is still technically free (just not, you know, when you buy it). [Thanks, Michael]

Original source: Apple Stores stocking Square credit card readers

Final Audio Design's Piano Forte earphones promise concert hall sound at bank-breaking prices

2011-04-21T11:13:00.003+08:00

Behold Final Audio Design's latest high-end earphones: the Piano Forte X-VII Series. Each of the four models that comprise the series features a large neodymium magnet driver, nestled inside a rigid metal housing made of alloy powder and natural resin, designed to minimize bad vibrations. The driver is a hefty 16 mm in diameter, and boasts roughly three times the surface area of your garden variety earphones, resulting in enhanced low frequency soundscapes. Final Audio Design also added a proprietary pressure ring to each model's diaphragm (to ward off sound artifacts), as well as special pressure vents (to optimize air pressure around the diaphragm). Internal air pressure, on the other hand, is kept in check thanks to the X-VIII Series' metallic earpads, which allegedly allow your ear to naturally adjust to any barometric shifts. Each of the four models comes in a unique metallic housing, reportedly capable of delivering different audio blends. But they all share one important characteristic -- they're really expensive. At the high end of the price spectrum are the X-G and X-CC models, which will put you back some ¥220,000 ($2,668). Bargain hunters, meanwhile, will have to settle for the VIII, priced at a slightly less obscene ¥80,000 ($970). Granted, these earphones may very well warrant that kind of cash and scientific hyperbole, though it's certainly difficult to gauge their value without taking them out for a spin ourselves.

Original source: Final Audio Design's Piano Forte earphones promise concert hall sound at bank-breaking prices

Apple beats estimates with Q2 earnings: $24.67 billion revenue, $5.99 billion profit

2011-04-21T11:13:00.001+08:00

Apple just announced its earnings for the second quarter of the year, and it's once again beat estimates, with it reporting earnings of $6.40 a share, a total of $24.67 billion in revenue, and a net profit of $5.99 billion. As for the sales breakdown everyone's waiting for, Apple says it sold a whopping 18.6 million iPhones in the quarter (up 113 percent over the previous year, and ahead of estimates of 16 million), plus 4.69 million iPads (actually less than the expected 6.29 million, apparently due to supply issues), and 3.76 million Macs, which represents a 28 percent jump over the same quarter a year ago. Not surprisingly, iPods are the one area that continues to slow, with sales of 9.02 million representing a 17 percent decline over the previous year -- the iPod touch accounted for more than half of those sales. One other big bright spot for the company is the Asia Pacific region, where it saw revenue grow a staggering 151 percent year-over-year. Interestingly, Apple isn't providing any specific sales numbers for the iPad 2 -- it's only saying that it sold every iPad 2 it could make in the quarter, and that it's working hard to get it into the hands of customers as fast as it can. It didn't add much more when pressed on the issue later during its earnings call either, with it only going as far as to say that the iPad has the "mother of all backlogs." Update: The company's press release is after the break.Continue reading Apple beats estimates with Q2 earnings: $24.67 billion revenue, $5.99 billion profit

Original source: Apple beats estimates with Q2 earnings: $24.67 billion revenue, $5.99 billion profit

AMD elevates the low-end with trio of sub-$100 cards: Radeon HD 6670, 6570, and 6450

2011-04-20T11:13:00.003+08:00

Graphics card companies don't live and die by the enthusiast market alone. That may be where the glory is, but it's the budget cards that really bring in the bacon. For the entry level, AMD just unleashed a trio of sub-$100 cards, the Radeon HD 6670, 6570, and 6450. How do they perform? Well, let's just say you get what you pay for. Reaction from reviewers has been one of mild indifference. Depending on manufacturer, fan noise does appear to be an issue, possibly precluding the cards from being a viable HTPC choice. Otherwise, even the lowly, $55 6450 is a worthy upgrade over an integrated graphics chip or a two-year-old discrete card, but it can't match the performance of NVIDIA's GT 430, which can be had for only a few dollars more. Consensus was that, with prices of the older 5000 series being slashed, purchasers can get more bang for their GPU buck by sticking with last generation cards (like the Radeon HD 5750) if they're looking for pure gaming prowess. That said, the GDDR5 flavors of the 6670 provide perfectly playable performance on most modern games (it averaged 45 FPS in Call of Duty: Black Ops) for just $99 (the 6570 runs about $79). Just beware those models shipping with GDDR3. Benchmarks galore below. Read - Hexus Read - techPowerUp 6450 Read - techPowerUp 6670 Read - Guru3D Read - Tech Report Read - Tom's Hardware 6670 and 6570 Read - Tom's Hardware 6450 Read - TweakTown Read - AnandTech Read - HotHardware

Original source: AMD elevates the low-end with trio of sub-$100 cards: Radeon HD 6670, 6570, and 6450

USB iHub is the perfect knockoff accessory for your Apple-centric existence

2011-04-20T11:13:00.001+08:00

So, you waited in line for an iPad 2, snatched up an iPhone 4, and even bought one of those unofficial white conversion kits. You work all day on a MacBook Air with a Steve Jobs figurine sitting next to it on your desk -- you're exactly the person that the $9.99 iHub was created for. It's not an official Apple product but, as far as knockoffs go, this is one of the more accurate facsimiles we've ever seen. This four-port USB hub looks quite a bit like an Apple TV, has a glowing logo up top, and comes in your choice of white or black. Even the packaging is convincingly Apple thanks to the clear plastic lid that lets you peek the wares within. Glimpse the glamor shots and the video below -- we promise they're 100-percent authentic, even if the iHub is not. Gallery: The iHub 2Continue reading USB iHub is the perfect knockoff accessory for your Apple-centric existence

Original source: USB iHub is the perfect knockoff accessory for your Apple-centric existence

Apple sues Samsung for 'copying' the iPhone and iPad

2011-04-19T11:13:00.003+08:00

Whoa! In the world of big-time lawsuits, this must be just about the biggest. The Wall Street Journal is reporting that Apple has sued Samsung Electronics for copying "the look and feel" of its iPad tablet and iPhone smartphone. This relates to the Samsung Galaxy S 4G, which bears more than a passing resemblance to the iPhone 3G / 3GS models, and the slightly less obvious Epic 4G, Nexus S, and Galaxy Tab (presumably the older 7-inch model, since the newer ones aren't out yet) devices. The claim for intellectual property infringement is phrased as follows: "Rather than innovate and develop its own technology and a unique Samsung style for its smart phone products and computer tablets, Samsung chose to copy Apple's technology, user interface and innovative style in these infringing products." The lawsuit was filed in the Northern District of California on Friday and seeks injunctions against Samsung, damages (both actual and punitive), and a finding that the infringement was willful. Lest we forget, the rarest outcome in such legal tussles is for an actual judgment to actually be handed down, so the greatest likelihood is that this will just lead to another round of grudging handshakes and licensing going one way with money going the other way, but still, it's fun to see the big dogs barking at each other. Another aspect to these proceedings that shouldn't be overlooked is that, on the software front, they boil down to iOS versus Android (again). When Apple calls Samsung uninventive in its user interface, it's talking more about Android's perceived imitation of the iPhone's interface than whatever TouchWiz tweaks Samsung has slapped on top. And hey, if you're going to sue Google indirectly, you can't leave a major player like Samsung outside the courtroom, it just wouldn't be fair.

Original source: Apple sues Samsung for 'copying' the iPhone and iPad

Meizu MX to be Jack Wong's next dream phone, coming with HDMI-out by year's end (update: HSPA+)

2011-04-19T11:13:00.001+08:00

It's only been 109 days since Meizu's remarkable launch of the M9 Android, but as we all know, there's nothing stopping our man Jack Wong from teasing his next flagship phone on his forum. Previously known as the M9II, Wong has now renamed this 4-inch handset to MX -- apparently short for "meng xiang" or "dream" in Mandarin Chinese, though X can also cunningly double up as the Roman numeral for 10 here. Also shared is the above real-life shot of an MX mock-up -- not far off from the earlier render -- which is appropriately seen chillaxing on the CEO's bed. In a separate forum thread, we're told that HDMI and coaxial digital audio outputs will be present on the MX, and a 16GB model will be released by the end of the year probably for ¥3,580 ($548). While this is a significant jump from the M9's ¥2,699 ($413), Wong insists that both phones share the same profit margin, and frankly, this will still be a pretty good deal for some Cortex-A9 goodness under a larger screen. We'll be right here waiting for you, Meizu; or we could just pop by your factory again some time. Update: Jack Wong's also confirmed HSPA+ support for some sweet 21Mbps download speed. The phone's getting better by the minute!Continue reading Meizu MX to be Jack Wong's next dream phone, coming with HDMI-out by year's end (update: HSPA+)

Original source: Meizu MX to be Jack Wong's next dream phone, coming with HDMI-out by year's end (update: HSPA+)

Intubation bot lets doctors safely shove tubes down unconscious human throats

2011-04-18T11:13:00.003+08:00

We've seen all manner of medical robots 'round these parts, from bloodbots to surgical cyborgs. And now Dr. Thomas M. Hemmerling from McGill University Health Centre (who also helped develop the McSleepy anesthetic android) has created the world's first intubation robot. Called the Kepler Intubation System (KIS), it's a robotic arm with a video laryngoscope that's controlled via joystick -- allowing MDs to get their Dr. Mario on while sliding an endotracheal tube into any passed-out meatbag with minimal fuss and maximum safety. The first procedure using the device on a real, live human was a success, and clinical testing continues. We're not big on bots shoving anything anywhere (even if it does help us breathe while under the knife), but that's better than android appendages lobbing grenades our way.

Original source: Intubation bot lets doctors safely shove tubes down unconscious human throats

How would you change the Verizon iPhone?

2011-04-18T11:13:00.001+08:00

It's an iPhone 4... but not the original iPhone 4. Verizon Wireless became the first CDMA carrier in the States to call an Apple smartphone one of its own, and the resulting handset is eerily similar to the AT&T variant in most regards. That said, we're sure that a few of you folks would have done things differently if given the design credentials needed to do so, and this is place for you to vent. Would you have added any features to this guy not already found on the GSM iPhone 4? Offered a Big Red-exclusive color? Thrown an LTE radio in there? Changed up the antenna layout? Included a secondary display, Echo-style? Go on and get creative in comments below -- you never know what suggestions may shape the shape of the iPhone 5! (Or something like that.)

Original source: How would you change the Verizon iPhone?

Unity Corporation releases Xtion Pro PC motion sensor in Japan

2011-04-17T11:13:00.002+08:00

We're still waiting for some specific US launch details for the Xtion Pro and Wavi Xtion motion sensors that ASUS showed off at CES earlier this year, but it looks like folks in Japan can now already get their hands on half of that duo. Unity Corportation has just announced that it's releasing the Xtion Promotion sensor (complete with an SDK) in the country for ¥19,980, or roughly $240. That should work similarly to a Kinect considering that PrimeSense is responsible for much of the technology behind it, although you should be aware that this one is aimed squarely at developers looking to create their own games and applications for it. You'll have to wait for the more consumer-friendly Wavi Xtion for something that you can simply plop down in your living room.

Original source: Unity Corporation releases Xtion Pro PC motion sensor in Japan

Discover cardholders can send money to anyone with a cell phone, email address

2011-04-17T11:13:00.001+08:00

With NFC payment systems just starting to roll out in the US, it'll be awhile yet before you can cut up those credit cards for good. But in the present, at least, you can use your handset to make sure you don't get stuck with a $100 bar tab... again. Discover just announced that it will let its cardholders send money to people in 60 countries -- so long as they have either a cell phone number or email address. As AllThingsD notes, Visa and American Express have hatched similar plans, though Discover is the first of the bunch to partner with PayPal. While people sending money don't need PayPal accounts, people receiving moola do -- or, at least, they must be willing to create one. For senders the service is free and, in fact, they get 0.25 percent cash back for the first $3,000 exchanged. As for Discover, a smaller player than Visa and MasterCard, it hopes some of PayPal's 230 million customers will sign up for a shiny new credit card while they're at it.

Original source: Discover cardholders can send money to anyone with a cell phone, email address

Hertz launches hourly EV rentals in London, self-satisfaction comes free

2011-04-16T11:13:00.002+08:00

Contract-free cellphones, declining marriage rates and car-sharing services all tell us you're a bunch of commitmentphobes. Lucky for you the world is willing to oblige your wishy-washy ways, and for those who also happen to have a bit of a green streak, Connect by Hertz offers hourly rentals on electric cars. After launching its EV rental program here in New York last year, Hertz promised to expand to several other cities and countries by the end of 2011, with London being the next to go online this Friday. British urbanites averse to car ownership will be able to pick from a fleet of vehicles including the the iMieV, Nissan LEAF and Renault Kangoo, range anxiety diminished thanks to the city's 16 charging stations. It's not exactly the Jetsons, but if this is the future of transportation, we're ok with that -- we're thinking Mother Earth is too.

Original source: Hertz launches hourly EV rentals in London, self-satisfaction comes free

HTC Sensation versus the rest of the dual-core world: smartphone spec sheet smackdown

2011-04-16T11:13:00.001+08:00

We got to feeling a bit curious about how exactly HTC's latest Android superphone, the Sensation 4G, stacks up against its fellow dual-core competition, so we did what every geek does in such situations, we compiled a chart. Included in this list are the finest and brightest Android handsets from each of the major manufacturers that have gone dual-core so far: the Galaxy S II, the Atrix 4G, the Optimus 2X / G2X, and HTC's own EVO 3D. As it turns out, there are quite a few commonalities among these phones (besides the benchmark-crushing performance). They all boast screens of either 4 or 4.3 inches in size, the minimum amount of RAM among them is 512MB, the smallest battery is 1500mAh, and yes, they all have front-facing video cameras. Basically, it's the future of smartphones, reduced to a stat sheet. As such, it must also come with the warning that specs aren't everything, and user experience will most often depend on the software available on each device and on the preferences of the human holding it. With that proviso fully digested, join us after the break for the data.Continue reading HTC Sensation versus the rest of the dual-core world: smartphone spec sheet smackdown

Original source: HTC Sensation versus the rest of the dual-core world: smartphone spec sheet smackdown

Microsoft confirms IE10 won't run on Vista, millions of IE9 users shrug

2011-04-15T11:13:00.002+08:00

If you're part of the dwindling group still using Windows Vista, you'll have to wait until your next upgrade to take IE10 for a spin -- Microsoft has confirmed that the latest version of its browser won't run on its last-gen operating system, either in developer preview form or when the final software ships. While it's tempting to interpret that as an attempt on Microsoft's part to put the widely loathed Vista in its past, there's actually a precedent for this -- remember that Microsoft cut off XP support when it unveiled IE9. As a Microsoft rep told Computerworld, the company would rather not have to develop software for a lowest-common denominator. At least, if you do have to stick with the newly minted IE9, you can be sure you'll be in good company.

Original source: Microsoft confirms IE10 won't run on Vista, millions of IE9 users shrug

Windows Phone 7â²s IE9 Beats iPhone 4 And Nexus S (Android) In HTML5 Speed Test [Video]

2011-04-15T11:13:00.001+08:00

MIX 2011 is well underway and one of the really cool things that Microsoft showed at MIX 2011 in Las Vegas is the new IE9 for Windows Phone 7 and how it performs against Safari on iOS and Androidâs native web browser.

Original source: Windows Phone 7â²s IE9 Beats iPhone 4 And Nexus S (Android) In HTML5 Speed Test [Video]

Galaxy S II benchmarked, makes other phones cry in shame

2011-04-14T11:13:00.003+08:00

The first benchmarks of Samsung's 1.2GHz Galaxy S II -- we saw the 1GHz variant tested previously -- are rolling in, and it's fast. Almost suspiciously so. Its speedy dual-core Exynos CPU pulled off a 3,053 in Quadrant and scored double what the similarly specced HTC Sensation did in Smartbench2011. Those scores also represent a more than threefold improvement over the original Galaxy S. Of course, these are purely synthetic benchmarks and may not translate into an equally improved experience in day to day use. We'll know for sure when we get our hands on one for a proper review in the coming weeks. Full benchmarks are after the break. [Thanks to everyone who sent this in]Continue reading Galaxy S II benchmarked, makes other phones cry in shame

Original source: Galaxy S II benchmarked, makes other phones cry in shame

Galaxy S II benchmarked, makes other phones cry in shame

2011-04-14T11:13:00.001+08:00

Original source: Galaxy S II benchmarked, makes other phones cry in shame

Intel's first Medfield-based smartphone to be a ZTE?

2011-04-13T11:13:00.003+08:00

It wasn't that long ago that Intel pulled a Dell, Anand Chandrasekher showing off a fancy new thing then quickly hiding it away out of sight. That was a Medfield-based smartphone, an Atom-powered mobile that the company pledges is built on "the most efficient architecture on the planet." Whether that's the case remains to be seen, as we're still waiting on any sort of details on that mystery phone, but according to Businessweek one question has been answered: the manufacturer. Intel is said to be working to design the handset for ZTE, the 32nm processor expected to provide decent performance and high efficiency for a mid-range smartphone. Now, ZTE has certainly been trying to make waves on the US market of late, but we can't help thinking Intel's going to need a somewhat higher profile partner before it really starts hitting ARM where it hurts.

Original source: Intel's first Medfield-based smartphone to be a ZTE?

Intel's Panther Point to include native USB 3.0 support, Z68 chipset to launch May 8th?

2011-04-13T11:13:00.001+08:00

We just saw some fairly big official news about some new Intel silicon yesterday, and we've now got a bit more news of the unofficial sort. According to the seemingly authentic slide above that we've just obtained, it looks like the company's forthcoming Panther Point chipset will indeed include native USB 3.0 as previously rumored, along with support for both Ivy Bridge and Sandy Bridge processors, and support for up to three displays. What's more, a separate rumor is now also pointing to Intel's high-end Z68 chipset being released on May 8th. It supports the latest Sandy Bridge processors, and will allow for performance to be boosted even further with things like overclocking and RST SSD caching.

Original source: Intel's Panther Point to include native USB 3.0 support, Z68 chipset to launch May 8th?

Apple hires carbon fiber expert to posit composites

2011-04-12T11:13:00.003+08:00

If you're going to compete in the consumer electronics business then you'd better have a solid grasp of industrial design and materials science. Otherwise, you're just another manufacturer trying to eke profit from drab slabs of commodity plastic. With the exception of the MacBook, Apple's entire Mac lineup is currently cut from aluminum. However, Apple's been caught experimenting with its newly acquired Liquidmetal materials recently, even as rumors swirl around new ultra-lightweight and durable carbon fiber components and enclosures. Speculation about the latter has been fueled by an Apple patent application for a process that would use carbon fiber materials woven into the reinforced device housings of mobile telephones, laptops, desktops, and tablets. Interestingly enough, the patent app was filed by Kevin M. Kenney (developer of the first all carbon fiber bicycle frame) on behalf of Apple back in 2009, a man who changed his job title to "Senior Composites Engineer at Apple Inc." on LinkedIn at some point after March 1st (according to Google cache). Of course, a carbon fiber laptop is far from unique -- just reference the Sony G11 from 2007 or 2008's Voodoo Envy 133 if you want to see how it's done. But if Apple makes a wholesale shift to carbon fiber in the months ahead then you can expect the horde of me-too OEMs to follow suit a year later. See the before and after LinkedIn profiles for Kenney after the break.Continue reading Apple hires carbon fiber expert to posit composites

Original source: Apple hires carbon fiber expert to posit composites

Sony shoots out CineAlta F65 4K camera and PMW-TD300 3D camcorder at NAB

2011-04-12T11:13:00.001+08:00

The current trend in the world of home theater may seem like 3D cinematography is all the hype these days, but Sony's latest imager in its CineAlta family begs to differ. Unveiled at the 2011 NAB Show, this F65 mammoth camera (pictured right) packs one beastly 20.4 megapixel, Super 35mm CMOS sensor -- a huge leap from the F35's 12.4 megapixel 1080p CCD. Aside from the obvious quantitative difference, what's special about this new chip is that unlike the Bayer BG-GR subpixel matrix on conventional 4K sensors, here we have green pixels forming the 4K grid while an RB-BR matrix fills in the space, thus doubling the number of horizontal pixels to 8K for a finer 4K picture (see illustration after the break), as well as allowing better visual effects editing using the extra data. What's more, this sensor is fast -- not only can it capture up to 72fps on 4K, but it can also crank up to a smooth 120fps on 2K. As for those seeking to squeeze out every bit of detail from their clips, don't worry: the F65's got you covered with a 16-bit RAW output (19Gbps) at 4K resolution, or it can be compressed to 5Gbps for the convenience of recording onto the new SR-R4 portable 4K recorder. Looks like Sony's finally found a candidate that'll put a lid on film stock, but then again, at the end of the day it'll depend on the price tag when it comes out in Q3 this year. Of course, Sony isn't going to just ignore the 3D scene here. Also announced at NAB is the PMW-TD300, which will be the first professional 3D camcorder sporting a shoulder mount. Featuring a pair of Exmor 3CMOS sensors, hardcore cameramen will finally be able to go mobile with this new toy while filming 3D in 1080p. Not sure how the videos will turn out, though -- we're not keen on the idea of watching shaky and potentially nauseating 3D captured by someone running along the sideline. Anyhow, this camera will be up for grabs in Autumn this year. [Thanks, Blackjack]Continue reading Sony shoots out CineAlta F65 4K camera and PMW-TD300 3D camcorder at NAB

Original source: Sony shoots out CineAlta F65 4K camera and PMW-TD300 3D camcorder at NAB

Editorial: Android's problem isn't fragmentation, it's contamination

2011-04-11T11:13:00.003+08:00

This thought was first given voice by Myriam Joire on last night's Mobile Podcast, and the simple, lethal accuracy of it has haunted me ever since. All the hubbub and unrest about whether Google is trying to lock Android down or not has failed to address whether Google should be trying to control the OS, and if so, what the (valid) reasons for that may be. Herein, I present only one, but it's arguably big enough to make all the dissidence about open source idealism and promises unkept fade into insignificance.Continue reading Editorial: Android's problem isn't fragmentation, it's contamination

Original source: Editorial: Android's problem isn't fragmentation, it's contamination

Aurasma's AR iPhone app to turn everyday objects into multimedia triggers (video)

2011-04-11T11:13:00.001+08:00

We've seen augmented reality done what seems like a million different ways, but we've never seen it quite like this. The New York Times reported Wednesday on a forthcoming iPhone app called Aurasma that has the power to turn ink-and-paper publications into interactive mine fields. Aurasma, conceived by enterprise software firm Autonomy, uses a scaled down version of the outfit's IDOL pattern recognizer to identify images stored in a vast database, and then converts those images into related video. Unfortunately, the first release of the app, scheduled for sometime next month, comes in the form of an AR advertisement / game for an unidentified upcoming movie, and the company's founder seems solidly focused on the technology's marketing potential. No word yet on when or if we can expect to see our New York Times come to life, as seen in the video at the source link below, but if this is the future of augmented reality, count us in.Continue reading Aurasma's AR iPhone app to turn everyday objects into multimedia triggers (video)

Original source: Aurasma's AR iPhone app to turn everyday objects into multimedia triggers (video)

Apple investigating 3G issues on some Verizon iPad 2s, software fix expected soon

2011-04-10T11:13:00.003+08:00

Having trouble hooking up your iPad 2 to Verizon's 3G network? Turns out you're not alone, and thankfully, Apple's well aware of this. In a statement to All Things Digital, Cupertino said it's investigating this CDMA connectivity issue as reported by "a small number of iPad 2 customers," and word has it that a software patch will be available soon. Until then, personal hotspot is your friend, or you could just borrow some mobile WiFi from your actual friends -- protip: a smile goes a long way.

Original source: Apple investigating 3G issues on some Verizon iPad 2s, software fix expected soon

House of Representatives votes to block FCC's net neutrality rules

2011-04-10T11:13:00.001+08:00

Well, it looks like Republicans in the House of Representatives weren't about to let this one slip past a possible government shutdown -- they just passed a measure that seeks to block the FCC's net neutrality rules by a largely party line vote of 240 to 179. That follows a House subcommittee vote last month but, as then, the bill still faces an uphill battle in the Senate and with the President, who's expected to veto any such legislation if it somehow got to his desk. Not surprisingly, the rhetoric from both sides is only increasing following this latest development, with Democrat Rep. Henry Waxman saying the Republican bill would "end the internet as we know it," while Republican Rep. Fred Upton argues that "the internet is not broken and this bill will assure that the FCC does not break it."

Original source: House of Representatives votes to block FCC's net neutrality rules

Panasonic gives its in-flight entertainment system an Android makeover, adds 3D displays

2011-04-09T11:13:00.003+08:00

Panasonic has been kicking around the idea of a tricked-out Android-based in-flight entertainment system for awhile, and now it's ready for airlines to start retrofitting their livery. The system, dubbed eX3, runs Android, relieving restless fliers with news, live television, games, and what the company calls on-board social networking, but that's mostly a nod to the Facebook app. Other amenities include broadband internet access and GSM service, touchscreen controllers, capacative screens, proximity sensors, and, in some cases, 3D displays. Not going to front -- we're stoked on the idea of tuning out on-board babies via multi-hour Angry Birds sessions, but we're seriously hoping the airlines ignore one of the system's marquee features: in-flight video conferencing. Gallery: Panasonic's eX3 in-flight entertainment system

Original source: Panasonic gives its in-flight entertainment system an Android makeover, adds 3D displays