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Friday, June 1, 2012

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Washington gets 10 EV charging stations between Seattle, Canadian border

Posted: 01 Jun 2012 03:14 PM PDT

Washington gets 10 EV charging stations between Seattle, Canadian border


Washington gets 10 EV charging stations between Seattle, Canadian border
Filed under: EV/Plug-in, North America, USA Different groups may be arguing about who's going to provide electric-vehicle charging stations along California highways but, a couple states north, they seem to have that issue figured out. The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) and EV-charging-station maker AeroVironment have opened the first 10 electric-vehicle charging stations along Interstate 5 and U.S. Route 2 that will allow EV drivers steady access to charging stations for the 110-mile drive between Seattle and the Canadian border. AeroVironment and the WSDOT, which will install two more stations in the area during the next few weeks, will give EV drivers free charging privileges "for a limited time." Eight of the stations are so-called fast-chargers. The U.S. Department of Energy provided $1.5 million in funding for the project, which is part of a broader effort to provide EV charging capabilities along the West Coast from Mexico to Canada. Of course, much of that effort depends on California, where the state and charging-station makers are squabbling. NRG Energy in March won a settlement from the state which resulted in $102 million being earmarked for the build-out of at least 200 so-called Freedom Station EV chargers throughout the state. Smaller competitor Ecotality subsequently sued the state, saying that the agreement would hinder competition and would cost California taxpayers more than the deal was worth. NRG this week said the project will bring $185 million in economic activity and add 1,500 jobs. AeroVironment, which is based in - wait for it - California, reached its agreement with Washington State last summer.Continue reading Washington gets 10 EV charging stations between Seattle, Canadian borderWashington gets 10 EV charging stations between Seattle, Canadian border originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 01 Jun 2012 17:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Motorola doesn't think two SIMs are enough, launches Motokey 3-Chip in Brazil

Posted: 01 Jun 2012 03:14 PM PDT

Motorola doesn't think two SIMs are enough, launches Motokey 3-Chip in Brazil


Motorola doesn't think two SIMs are enough, launches Motokey 3-Chip in Brazil
Nope, it's definitely not the first handset we've seen that allows to be paired alongside a trifecta of SIM cards all at once. Nonetheless, Motorola's introduced a triple-SIM slab of its own: the Brazil-bound Motokey 3-Chip. Aside from the aforementioned feature, the Motokey also packs a set of physical QWERTY keys, two gigs of internal storage which can be expanded via microSD, an MP3 player / FM radio for tunes and a 2-megapixel rear shooter. Moto's 3-Chip is expected to be up for grabs next week in Pelé's country, with pricing being set at R$349,00, or around $170 in US cash.Motorola doesn't think two SIMs are enough, launches Motokey 3-Chip in Brazil originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 01 Jun 2012 18:02:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink The Verge | Motorola Mobility | Email this | Comments

Toyota to Add Playstation to FR-S?

Posted: 01 Jun 2012 03:14 PM PDT

Toyota to Add Playstation to FR-S?


Toyota to Add Playstation to FR-S?
Convertible Subaru BRZ and Scion FR-S could also be on the way.

iCache Geode claims title of first shipping iPhone e-wallet, asks 'who needs NFC?'

Posted: 01 Jun 2012 03:14 PM PDT

iCache Geode claims title of first shipping iPhone e-wallet, asks 'who needs NFC?'


iCache Geode claims title of first shipping iPhone e-wallet, asks 'who needs NFC?'
Apple has been sending mixed signals as to whether or not it will bring NFC to the iPhone for mobile payments, but iCache clearly isn't waiting for the technology to show its face -- the company just started shipping its Geode e-wallet. As we saw just a few weeks ago, the Geode simply rolls existing credit and debit cards into a proxy GeoCard that's scanned at the store to handle transactions. Although it demands a specially-made case with an e-paper screen and fingerprint reader, not to mention an app to manage the attached cards, the choice lets an iPhone owner buy goods at all the usual places instead of having to hunt down special terminals. We like the one-card universe it creates, although it's clear the shopper has to carry a lot of the responsibility for making this digital payment dream a reality: at $200 a pop, the Geode's wallet-slimming effect carries a premium, especially since it won't work with anything besides an iPhone 4 or 4S.iCache Geode claims title of first shipping iPhone e-wallet, asks 'who needs NFC?' originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 01 Jun 2012 17:40:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | iCache | Email this | Comments

Google Shopping to change formats, charge merchants

Posted: 01 Jun 2012 02:40 PM PDT

Google Shopping to change formats, charge merchants


Google Shopping to change formats, charge merchants
It's just about closing time for Google Shopping's free merchant listings. The iconic search engine has traditionally shown us products regardless of a commercial relationship with sellers, but they'll be required to fork over some coin if they want to join the party after the fall. Currently called Google Product Listings, the platform's name and format have evolved several times since the Froogle days. Google says the older model can lead to some shady and obsolete info, whereas charging vendors will "encourage them to keep their product information fresh and up to date." New shopping formats are already being tested with a small population of users and include bigger pics and the ability to fine tune the search based on brand or product type. As the song goes, every new beginning comes from some other beginning's end.Google Shopping to change formats, charge merchants originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 01 Jun 2012 17:21:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink Search Engine Land | Google | Email this | Comments

Opera Mini 7 comes to feature phones and BlackBerry, upgrade notifications in tow

Posted: 01 Jun 2012 02:06 PM PDT

Opera Mini 7 comes to feature phones and BlackBerry, upgrade notifications in tow


Opera Mini 7 comes to feature phones and BlackBerry, upgrade notifications in tow
Opera Mini 7 has been available via the Google Play market since the end of March, but if you're still milking a feature phone for all it's worth, you haven't been able to enjoy the latest version of the mobile browser. Opera Mini 7 is now available for basic phones and BlackBerry, allowing these devices to store an unlimited number of speed dials and access the new Smart Page feature for shortcuts to favorite sites. In addition to those new features, Opera Mini 7 includes several improvements and tweaks, including upgrade notifications and the ability to close tabs with one click on touchscreen phones. Of course, the browser still promises to cut down on your device's bandwidth usage, so your flip phone can keep on chugging.Opera Mini 7 comes to feature phones and BlackBerry, upgrade notifications in tow originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 01 Jun 2012 17:03:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink All About Symbian | | Email this | Comments

Vizio PCs officially launch in June, home theaters look on with envy

Posted: 01 Jun 2012 02:06 PM PDT

Vizio PCs officially launch in June, home theaters look on with envy


Vizio PCs officially launch in June, home theaters look on with envy
The FCC gave us a clue that Vizio's first-ever PCs would be shipping soon, and the company is now spilling a few beans more directly. Although the official statement is still short on many of the details we've been hoping to know, Vizio is promising that the line will launch before June is up. As a refresher, the normally home theater-focused company is planning to go all-out despite being the new kid on the block, going with a trio of mid-size laptops as well as two sizes of all-in-one desktops that rely on Magic Trackpad-like input to draw attention. Mum's the word on whether or not the 10-inch tablet will be part of the June arrivals, although there's unconfirmed talk that Walmart will carry at least some of the lineup and trigger some jealousy in the 2012 Vizio TVs across the aisle.Vizio PCs officially launch in June, home theaters look on with envy originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 01 Jun 2012 16:45:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Gizmodo | Email this | Comments

2012 Toyota Yaris: First Drive

Posted: 01 Jun 2012 02:05 PM PDT

2012 Toyota Yaris: First Drive


2012 Toyota Yaris: First Drive
A new generation keeps the Toyota Yaris in the subcompact game — barely.

NASA's Robonaut 2 shown pushing buttons, firing lasers on the ISS (video)

Posted: 01 Jun 2012 01:33 PM PDT

NASA's Robonaut 2 shown pushing buttons, firing lasers on the ISS (video)


NASA's Robonaut 2 shown pushing buttons, firing lasers on the ISS (video)
Robonaut 2 is the International Space Station's friendly 300-pound killbot android assistant. It's there to assist the team with science experiments and probably capture alien life at the expense of the crew. After being fitted with more heat-sinks to enable its delicate machinery to work for longer, it was given the job of monitoring the on-board air velocity to ensure the humans didn't choke to death. Since it doesn't have legs (they're still being built on the ground), it was only able to monitor the air in the Destiny Laboratory, but the test proved so successful that NASA hopes future robots will take over the more dangerous or mundane elements of space work -- at least until they become self-aware and unionize.Continue reading NASA's Robonaut 2 shown pushing buttons, firing lasers on the ISS (video)NASA's Robonaut 2 shown pushing buttons, firing lasers on the ISS (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 01 Jun 2012 16:22:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink Robots Dreams | NASA | Email this | Comments

Verizon's Motorola Xoom to get ICS upgrade on June 4th

Posted: 01 Jun 2012 01:33 PM PDT

Verizon's Motorola Xoom to get ICS upgrade on June 4th


Verizon's Motorola Xoom to get ICS upgrade on June 4th
Well, it looks like T-Mobile's Galaxy S II isn't the only device that's gotten some Ice Cream Sandwich upgrade news today. Verizon has now also confirmed that its version of the Motorola Xoom will finally be getting an ICS update of its own on June 4th. That will bring the tablet up to Android 4.0.4, and add features like speech-to-text functionality, a customizable launch bar, a new built-in photo editor, and the ability to dismiss notifications with a swipe. Those having problems with the tablet will also be glad to know that the update brings with it a slew of fixes and promised performance improvements -- the full rundown on those can be found at the second source link below.Verizon's Motorola Xoom to get ICS upgrade on June 4th originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 01 Jun 2012 16:05:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Verizon (1), (2) | Email this | Comments

Verizon to buy Hughes Telematics for $612 million in cash

Posted: 01 Jun 2012 01:33 PM PDT

Verizon to buy Hughes Telematics for $612 million in cash


Verizon to buy Hughes Telematics for $612 million in cash
After a recent round of good, and potentially not so good news for residential customers, Verizon plans to show a little love to its enterprise clients. Big Red is about to spend $612 million of its spare pocket change to buy Hughes Telematics, a company that primarily works within the realm of automotive communications. The board-approved purchase should be wrapped up by Q3 of this year and Hughes' management team will remain intact. The premium offer by Verizon works out to $12 per share for a stock that was trading at just $4.35 as of yesterday's closing bell. Facebook investors: eat your hearts out.Verizon to buy Hughes Telematics for $612 million in cash originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 01 Jun 2012 16:01:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Reuters | Email this | Comments

2012 Toyota Yaris: First Drive

Posted: 01 Jun 2012 01:33 PM PDT

2012 Toyota Yaris: First Drive


2012 Toyota Yaris: First Drive
A new generation keeps the Toyota Yaris in the subcompact game — barely.

Cars.com calls out Consumer Reports over Toyota Prius C verdict

Posted: 01 Jun 2012 01:01 PM PDT

Cars.com calls out Consumer Reports over Toyota Prius C verdict


Cars.com calls out Consumer Reports over Toyota Prius C verdict
Filed under: Hybrid, ToyotaCars.com has evidently taken issue with a Consumer Reports video review featured on Autoblog advising consumers that they would be better off buying a used "regular" Prius instead of a 2012 Prius C.Consumer Reports shouldn't have passed on recommending the Prius C, Cars.com argues: "CR's low testing scores for the Prius C stand in stark contrast to our impressions of the hybrid." Indeed. Cars.com gushes over the tiny hybrid, saying it might even pick the C over the regular Prius. Furthermore, in attempt to poke CR just a little more, Cars.com notes that used Prius prices are the highest they've been in six months, so looking for a deal there might not make for smart consumer advice. In a final twist, Cars.com says it didn't name the Yaris-based C as one of its Best Bets, in part, because it relies on Consumer Reports reliability surveys as one metric to qualify any vehicle as a Best Bet. The 2013 C doesn't have enough data to say how reliable it will ultimately be.Cars.com calls out Consumer Reports over Toyota Prius C verdict originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 01 Jun 2012 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Leave Your Credit Cards At Home: iCache’s Digital Wallet/iPhone Case Is Now Avai...

Posted: 01 Jun 2012 01:01 PM PDT

Leave Your Credit Cards At Home: iCache's Digital Wallet/iPhone Case Is Now Available


Leave Your Credit Cards At Home: iCache's Digital Wallet/iPhone Case Is Now Available
Well, it's about time. Many of us were absolutely floored by the iCache Geode mobile wallet when it first appeared back in April, and now the company has announced that the hotly-awaited accessory is finally available. In case you missed it the first time around, the iCache Geode is an iPhone with a particularly wonderful twist -- in addition to just wrapping a protective layer of plastic around your phone, it also sports a rewritable magstripe card on its rear end. Once the corresponding app has been installed on an iPhone 4/4S, users can store their credit card information on their smartphones and write it onto the so-called GeoCard.

Viper outs SmartStart 3.0, knows where your car is and what it's up to

Posted: 01 Jun 2012 01:01 PM PDT

Viper outs SmartStart 3.0, knows where your car is and what it's up to


Viper outs SmartStart 3.0, knows where your car is and what it's up to
Viper reckons it can be your singular, all-round vehicle app judging by the considerable leap in features for version 3.0 of its Android, iOS or Blackberry SmartStart. On top of previous car lock, security and ignition controls, the aux channels now let you monkey with other parts from afar, like the sunroof, windows, stereo, AC and more. The new SmartSchedule pings you when it's time to (remotely) start 'er up, and vehicle diagnostics flag engine issues through DTC repair codes, if you drive certain models. The jazziest addition is the Directed Cloud Services which let you monitor your car's status and position through GPS, and start it, lock it, or access the other aforementioned controls -- regardless of where in the world you both are. For the true micro-manager, there's no such thing as overkill.Viper outs SmartStart 3.0, knows where your car is and what it's up to originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 01 Jun 2012 15:38:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | PR Newswire | Email this | Comments

T-Mobile Samsung Galaxy S II getting ICS June 11th

Posted: 01 Jun 2012 12:26 PM PDT

T-Mobile Samsung Galaxy S II getting ICS June 11th


T-Mobile Samsung Galaxy S II getting ICS June 11th
If you've been waiting... and waiting... and waiting some more for Ice Cream Sandwich to show up on the US variants of the Galaxy S II, it looks like the upgrade is ready to begin trickling in. T-Mobile is the first to announce an official date for its flavor of last year's flagship device, with its version of the GSII rolling out on June 11th. Unfortunately, it's not an OTA refresh as we'd prefer -- you'll have to surrender yourself to the will of Kies, but at least it's going to be available. AT&T and Sprint, the move is now yours to make. [Thanks to everyone who sent this in]T-Mobile Samsung Galaxy S II getting ICS June 11th originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 01 Jun 2012 15:18:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Twitter | Email this | Comments

Huawei Ascend P1 review

Posted: 01 Jun 2012 12:26 PM PDT

Huawei Ascend P1 review


Huawei Ascend P1 review
More Info Huawei Ascend P1 hands-on Huawei Ascend P1 announced Ascend P1 arriving in May Drastic product strategy adjustments appear to be a hot trend for smartphone manufacturers in 2012, and Huawei is one such example of a company doing its best to hang out with the cool kids. It's hard to blame it, of course: the OEM's previous success has been in its ability to crank out budget-friendly smartphones, feature phones and USB sticks like nobody's business and pushing them out to emerging markets. The story's even more dire within the US, as most carriers have kept Huawei out of the spotlight by choosing very few of its devices, white-labeling each one and selling them as prepaid. In an effort to gain awareness and improve its market share, Huawei's turned to establishing brand recognition and improving device selection as its focal points for 2012. Barely a week into the new year, Huawei took to the stage at the Consumer Electronics Show to showcase the Ascend P1 and P1 S. These two smartphones, nearly identical twins with the exception of the P1 S' thinner profile and (oddly enough) larger battery, represented the first phase in the company's new product strategy. The pair were to be powerful new devices with a classy, stylish look and feel. This was a welcome move since Huawei's best product prior to CES was the Honor, a 1.4GHz single-core device with a 4-inch FWVGA display. Until Huawei launches its top-tier Diamond series of smartphones (including the ultra-powerful D Quad), the Ascend P1 -- which is expected to arrive in Hong Kong, Taiwan and Australia by the end of the month at an unknown price -- will be the company's best offering. Naturally, we were eager to take this Platinum series (second tier) device for a spin. Is the P1 truly a sign of Huawei turning a new leaf? Does it hold its own against similarly specced competition? Follow us past the break to find out. Gallery: Huawei Ascend P1 overviewContinue reading Huawei Ascend P1 reviewHuawei Ascend P1 review originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 01 Jun 2012 15:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Stuxnet pinned on US and Israel as an out-of-control creation

Posted: 01 Jun 2012 11:54 AM PDT

Stuxnet pinned on US and Israel as an out-of-control creation


Stuxnet pinned on US and Israel as an out-of-control creation
Ever since Stuxnet was discovered, most of the accusing fingers have been pointed at the US, Israel or both, whether or not there was any evidence; it was hard to ignore malware that seemed tailor-made for wrecking Iranian centrifuges and slowing down the country's nuclear development. As it turns out, Occam's Razor is in full effect. An exposé from the New York Times matter-of-factly claims that the US and Israel coded Stuxnet as part of a cyberwar op, Olympic Games, and snuck it on to a USB thumb drive that infected computers at the Natanz nuclear facility. The reason we know about the infection at all, insiders say, is that it got out of control: someone modified the code or otherwise got it to spread through an infected PC carried outside, pushing Obama to either double down (which he did) or back off. Despite all its connections, the newspaper couldn't confirm whether or not the new Flame malware attack is another US creation. Tipsters did, however, deny that Flame is part of the Olympic Games push -- raising the possibility that there are other agencies at work. [Image credit: David Holt, Flickr]Stuxnet pinned on US and Israel as an out-of-control creation originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 01 Jun 2012 14:48:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink Ars Technica | New York Times | Email this | Comments

Roku adds Slacker Radio to app locker, Watchlist now live on Amazon Instant Video

Posted: 01 Jun 2012 11:53 AM PDT

Roku adds Slacker Radio to app locker, Watchlist now live on Amazon Instant Video


Roku adds Slacker Radio to app locker, Watchlist now live on Amazon Instant Video
Well, hello there Roku owners. Via its blog site, the creator of the tiny, but entertainment-packed boxes announced it's now giving you access to the renown Slacker Radio application, allowing you to listen in on over 200 music stations -- much like you already do on your iOS and Android slabs. That's not it, though, Roku also notes the recently announced Amazon Watchlist feature is now live on the outfit's channel, which should make Instant Video junkies very happy. The fresh goods are available now, so power on your miniature box and put 'em to good use.Roku adds Slacker Radio to app locker, Watchlist now live on Amazon Instant Video originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 01 Jun 2012 14:34:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Roku (1), (2) | Email this | Comments

Holy Strategic Partnerships, Batman! A Brief History Of Nokia’s Batman Obsession

Posted: 01 Jun 2012 11:53 AM PDT

Holy Strategic Partnerships, Batman! A Brief History Of Nokia's Batman Obsession


Holy Strategic Partnerships, Batman! A Brief History Of Nokia's Batman Obsession
The Nokia Lumia 900 The Dark Knight Rises Edition handset has made its way on the interwebs recently and it's nothing short of a beauty, with a black polycarbonate unibody frame and a laser-etched Batman logo across the back. Moreover, the phone — which is usually limited to either a black or white background and a handful of color themes like Nokia blue, teal, lime, mango, and pink — will also come with a black and grey theme. Of course, plenty of Dark Knight Rises content will come pre-loaded as well, including a game called Claim Gotham City and the Dark Knight Rises app. We had gotten a glimpse of the phone in what appears to be official press shots (or renders) a few days ago, but the first hands-on photos of the phone have surfaced, courtesy of Phonerpt.

Raspberry Pi impressions: the $35 Linux computer and tinker toy

Posted: 01 Jun 2012 11:20 AM PDT

Raspberry Pi impressions: the $35 Linux computer and tinker toy


Raspberry Pi impressions: the $35 Linux computer and tinker toy
The ledgers of history are littered with the rotting corpses of well intentioned, but ultimately unsuccessful, attempts to put computers in the hands of the young, underprivileged or severely impoverished. Some, like Intel's Classmate wanted to put cheap, durable Wintel machines in every American classroom, while others, like the OLPC program, focused their efforts on developing nations. Okay, perhaps it's a bit hyperbolic to compare those initiatives to decomposing bodies, but there's no denying they haven't exactly flooded the world with low-cost PCs the way they were envisioned. So, here comes the Raspberry Pi, another effort with lofty goals, both in terms of purpose and price. Of course, the approach is different here -- more barebones, with a healthy dose of inspiration from Arduino and the DIY movement. The question is, what has it learned from those that have come before it? And, most importantly, where does the Raspberry Pi go right and where does it go wrong? To find out, keep reading after the break. Continue reading Raspberry Pi impressions: the $35 Linux computer and tinker toyRaspberry Pi impressions: the $35 Linux computer and tinker toy originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 01 Jun 2012 14:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

NVIDIA GeForce R302 drivers get Windows 8 certification, available for download...

Posted: 01 Jun 2012 11:20 AM PDT

NVIDIA GeForce R302 drivers get Windows 8 certification, available for download soon


NVIDIA GeForce R302 drivers get Windows 8 certification, available for download soon
With the Windows 8 Release Preview unveiled and available for all to download as of yesterday, you can bet that other companies are hustling to make their products compatible -- and that doesn't just go for hardware. NVIDIA announced that its new R302 graphics drivers have received Windows 8 certification, and they will be available for download early next week from GeForce.com. The drivers support all the new Windows Display Driver Model's features along with NVIDIA 3D Vision and 3DTV Play products. Not only are the R302 drivers Windows 8-compatible, but they also only work with that generation of the OS. Other versions of Windows will continue to use NVIDIA's R300 drivers.NVIDIA GeForce R302 drivers get Windows 8 certification, available for download soon originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 01 Jun 2012 13:44:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | NVIDIA Blog | Email this | Comments

Chevy Volt sales climb to 1,680 in May; Nissan Leaf rebounds to 510 *UPDATE

Posted: 01 Jun 2012 10:48 AM PDT

Chevy Volt sales climb to 1,680 in May; Nissan Leaf rebounds to 510 *UPDATE


Chevy Volt sales climb to 1,680 in May; Nissan Leaf rebounds to 510 *UPDATE
Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Hybrid, Chevrolet, GMC, Nissan March 2012 still stands as the high-water mark for Chevrolet Volt sales. That month, GM sold 2,289 Volts, a number that dropped to 1,462 in April. The news today is that sales climbed back up to 1,680 in May. GM's Twitter account says that demand for the 703 Volt in California is temporarily outstripping supply. We wonder if there are dealers in other states who would be more than willing to send their unsold units westward. When it comes to the Nissan Leaf, the May number - 510 sold - is better than the 370 Nissan sold in April. Of course, it's fewer than the 579 units sold in March and is also less than half of what Nissan sold in May 2011: 1,142. For the record, there were 26 selling days in May 2012 and 24 in May 2011. For another record, while the vehicles aren't really comparable, the Smart Fortwo outsold the Leaf at 703 units in May. Just so you know. As we mentioned last month, Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn has been managing expectations about Leaf sales and saying that month-to-month numbers don't matter that much. Therefore, we won't read anything great into May's uptick just like April's downward slide wasn't a great cause for alarm. From what we understand, Leaf production is still lower than demand is calling for. The Smyrna, TN and Sunderland, UK Leaf plants, when they come online, should change this. Other plug-in vehicle sales numbers were either less good or simply not announced yet. Ford, for example, said it "delivered the first Focus Electric vehicles to retail customers" in May, but did not say how many that was. We're still waiting for Mitsubishi and Toyota to release their plug-in vehicle sales numbers for May. We'll update this post when they do.*UPDATE: Overall Prius sales were 21,477 last month, with the following breakdown: Prius Liftback: 13,053 Prius C: 3,693 Prius V: 3,645 Prius Plug-in: 1,086 Continue reading Chevy Volt sales climb to 1,680 in May; Nissan Leaf rebounds to 510 *UPDATEChevy Volt sales climb to 1,680 in May; Nissan Leaf rebounds to 510 *UPDATE originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 01 Jun 2012 13:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Cisco sues TiVo to nullify four DVR patents, claims TiVo's just a big meanie

Posted: 01 Jun 2012 10:47 AM PDT

Cisco sues TiVo to nullify four DVR patents, claims TiVo's just a big meanie


Cisco sues TiVo to nullify four DVR patents, claims TiVo's just a big meanie
TiVo is known for being more than a bit aggressive in claiming patent rights for its DVRs, and Cisco has apparently had the last straw. Scientific Atlanta's owner has sued TiVo this week in an attempt to negate four patents that TiVo is allegedly using to bully Cisco and other set-top box makers. As long as those patents are active or usable against others, TiVo will refuse to give a fair license, Cisco says -- leaving competitors with little choice but to either agree to a costly settlement or risk a ban. Before championing Cisco as the underdog, remember that it's likely counting on a large patent library as a Sword of Damocles over TiVo's head that could fall if TiVo decides on a countersuit. Regardless of the strategic maneuvering, there's no doubt that Cisco is hoping to avoid a lawsuit on the scale of the epic-length EchoStar case.Cisco sues TiVo to nullify four DVR patents, claims TiVo's just a big meanie originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 01 Jun 2012 13:29:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink Reuters | | Email this | Comments

Denon turns up the volume with 11 new headphone models featuring iOS app integra...

Posted: 01 Jun 2012 10:47 AM PDT

Denon turns up the volume with 11 new headphone models featuring iOS app integration


Denon turns up the volume with 11 new headphone models featuring iOS app integration
If you're looking for something new to wrap around your noggin this coming season, then put it on your radar that Denon will be bringing 11 new sets of headphones to store shelves this August. That number might seem like quite a lot to digest, but it becomes a lot easier when broken down by category. First is the Exercise Freak lineup, a wrap-around earbud design that sells for $149 and will be available in black, blue and yellow. Beyond that, the company has three additional lineups -- the Music Maniac, the Urban Raver and the Globe Cruiser -- and each will be available in earbud and over-the-ear form factors. The Music Maniac headphones ($349 and $499) are designed to cater to audio purists with an acoustically flat signature. Most notable about the Music Maniac lineup is the top shelf Artisan model, which rings in at a healthy $1,199 and pits itself against other audiophile mainstays such as the Sennheiser HD800 and Audez'e LCD2. Meanwhile, the Urban Ravers ($249 and $399) place a heavy emphasis on bass, whereas the Globe Cruisers ($179 and $499) feature noise cancellation. As a nice touch, each of the models feature built-in microphones and volume controls. Denon is supplying iOS apps for each family of headphones, which is a bit of a novel idea, but they vary significantly among lineups. Music Maniac purchasers will be treated to a music app that combines EQ adjustment and integration with TuneIn Radio, while the app for Urban Raver owners focuses on sharing and discovering new music via Facebook and Twitter. Globe Cruiser users will (oddly enough) be treated to a travel app, whereas Exercise Freak owners will find an app that features GPS integration for activity tracking. If it's any redemption for the fragmented assortment of apps, Denon owners may purchase each individual selection in the App Store for $0.99. If your head isn't spinning yet, feel free to check out the PR after the break. Gallery: Denon turns up the volume with 11 new headphone modelsContinue reading Denon turns up the volume with 11 new headphone models featuring iOS app integrationDenon turns up the volume with 11 new headphone models featuring iOS app integration originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 01 Jun 2012 13:17:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Treat Dad to Ferrari Racing Days

Posted: 01 Jun 2012 10:47 AM PDT

Treat Dad to Ferrari Racing Days


Treat Dad to Ferrari Racing Days
Spoil Dad this father's day with a trip to see the 599XX and FXX in action.

AT&T CEO predicts data-only plans within two years

Posted: 01 Jun 2012 10:15 AM PDT

AT&T CEO predicts data-only plans within two years


AT&T CEO predicts data-only plans within two years
The fact that modern smartphones still actually make voice calls may well come as a surprise to many users happy to use their mobile devices as pocket-sized computers. Carriers, on the other hand, seem content to keep the "phone" in smartphone. AT&T's Randall Stephenson told an investor conference this week that he sees a time in which carriers offer up data-only options for subscribers -- a time that may well come in the next two years or so. The CEO said he'd, "be surprised if, in the next 24 months, we don't see people in the market place with data-only plans." It's hardly an announcement, but it certainly comes from a guy who knows a thing or two about where the industry is headed.AT&T CEO predicts data-only plans within two years originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 01 Jun 2012 12:59:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Yahoo! | Email this | Comments

Microsoft Smart Glass coming at E3, AirPlay-style streaming from iOS, Android an...

Posted: 01 Jun 2012 10:15 AM PDT

Microsoft Smart Glass coming at E3, AirPlay-style streaming from iOS, Android and Windows Phone?


Microsoft Smart Glass coming at E3, AirPlay-style streaming from iOS, Android and Windows Phone?
Windows 8 is coming and it features more and better Xbox integration than we've yet seen in an operating system from the company -- but it looks like Microsoft has something even bigger up its sleeve. We've just seen a presentation indicating the company will launch something called Smart Glass next week, a so-called "companion application" that will act much like AirPlay for the Xbox 360. Using the app, users will be able to play video and other media on tablets and phones and, more interestingly, push that content right to their consoles for playback on the big(ger) screen. But, it gets better: this app is said to be available for tablets and phones running Windows, Windows Phone, Android and iOS. Yes, it'll be about as multiplatform as it gets, and if this presentation proves to be legitimate, we'll be learning a lot more next week when E3 gets underway.Microsoft Smart Glass coming at E3, AirPlay-style streaming from iOS, Android and Windows Phone? originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 01 Jun 2012 12:45:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | examiner.com | Email this | Comments

Star Wars Prius commercial gives droids a shot with Toyota's plug-in

Posted: 01 Jun 2012 09:41 AM PDT

Star Wars Prius commercial gives droids a shot with Toyota's plug-in


Star Wars Prius commercial gives droids a shot with Toyota's plug-in
Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Hybrid, Toyota, Japan, Videos Help us, plug-in cars, you're our only hope. In his original deal with Fox for the first Star Wars movie, George Lucas famously kept the licensing rights for himself. That deal - unusual at the time - has resulted in a huge pile of cash for the filmmaker and the ability for his iconic characters to appear on a seriously uncountable pile of merchandise, hawking everything from 1977 Toyota Celicas to Volkswagen Passats (to name just two car-related ones). The latest? The space-age Toyota Prius Plug-In. Like many odd commercial pairings, this one was intended for the Japanese market. Translation of the ad done by friends of Green Car Reports says that everyone's favorite droids keep their know-it-all/ignorance-is-bliss dynamic in full effect. For example, when C-3PO first sees the plug-in hybrid's J1772 connector, he asks R2D2 if it's the little droid's charger. Goldenrod then asks, "You wanna recharge too?" To which R2 replies in his regular beeps and blorts and 3PO says, "Okay, me too!" They then have a discussion about range anxiety, which makes us wonder if Toyota is hinting that the next-gen Prius will come with Twin Ion Engines. But you want to see this all yourself, right? Go ahead and do so for the next 30 seconds down below.Continue reading Star Wars Prius commercial gives droids a shot with Toyota's plug-inStar Wars Prius commercial gives droids a shot with Toyota's plug-in originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 01 Jun 2012 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Hacker pod2g to speak and run hacking workshop at JailbreakCon's WWJC

Posted: 01 Jun 2012 09:41 AM PDT

Hacker pod2g to speak and run hacking workshop at JailbreakCon's WWJC


Hacker pod2g to speak and run hacking workshop at JailbreakCon's WWJC
While WWJC's already got a healthy list of special guests to address fellow iOS hackers, word has it that pod2g -- a well-known and good-looking contributor to the iDevice jailbreak scene -- will be the latest guest to join JailbreakCon's show on September 29th. Better still, the self-professed iOS security researcher will be both speaking and running a workshop there, making it all worthwhile for attendees traveling all the way to San Francisco. For those who want to familiarize yourselves with pod2g, hit the Redmond Pie link below to see his interview by JailbreakCon's Craig Fox. Or, you know, you can head over to WWJC to meet the man up close and personal -- just make sure you get a ticket first before it's too late!Hacker pod2g to speak and run hacking workshop at JailbreakCon's WWJC originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 01 Jun 2012 12:23:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | @poad2g (Twitter) | Email this | Comments