Subscribe:

Monday, July 9, 2012

Shops Online

Shops Online

Samsung EX2F point-and-shoot with f/1.4 lens hands-on (video)

Posted: 09 Jul 2012 02:50 PM PDT

Samsung EX2F point-and-shoot with f/1.4 lens hands-on (video)


Samsung EX2F point-and-shoot with f/1.4 lens hands-on (video)
We've been generally unimpressed with the latest round of basic point-and-shoots, including those from Samsung's mid-range Smart series, but we do tend to take heed whenever a manufacturer opts to focus on optics rather than bumping up the megapixel count to boost sticker appeal. Compared to sub-$200 shooters, there's a fairly limited market for $549 pocketable models -- a price point that often prompts would-be owners to dig beyond superficial specs in search of full manual control, solid high-ISO performance, fast focusing and a lens that enables both low-light shooting and shallow depth of field. Samsung's EX2F appears to fit the bill, offering a 12.4-megapixel 1/1.7-inch CMOS sensor, a top extended ISO setting of 12,800, a 3-inch VGA-res AMOLED display and -- the crown jewel -- an f/1.4-2.7, 24-79mm lens. That optic delivers an additional stop of sensitivity over the EX2F's predecessor, the two-year-old TL500. Other advantages include a lighter magnesium alloy body, an NX power pin-enabled hot shoe for adding an external mic or flash, and a new micro-USB trigger cable. Though the NX2F was noticeably lighter than the 2010 model during our hands-on, it retains much of the TL500's heft -- at least from a size perspective. The camera's footprint makes it too bulky to slip in a pocket, as we were able to do with the Sony RX100, though the flip-out AMOLED display is certainly a welcome addition. An NX-like smart UI mode enables instant access to key settings, as do the dual control dials, which let you adjust shooting modes (on the right) and capture speed (on the left). There's also a new in-camera HDR mode which merges two back-to-back shots (one underexposed and the other overexposed) in order to retain additional shadow and highlight detail. The camera was quite responsive during a quick shoot earlier today, powering on, focusing and capturing an image quickly. We'll need to spend much more time snapping outside of an office environment before passing any formal judgement, but it's easy to see the appeal of such of device -- and the advantage over less-abled point-and-shoots. For now, you can take a closer look in the gallery below, and in our hands-on demonstration after the break.Gallery: Samsung EX2F camera hands-onContinue reading Samsung EX2F point-and-shoot with f/1.4 lens hands-on (video)Filed under: Digital CamerasSamsung EX2F point-and-shoot with f/1.4 lens hands-on (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 09 Jul 2012 17:27:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Noise Free Wireless alleges Apple is tone deaf over sound reduction patent, file...

Posted: 09 Jul 2012 02:18 PM PDT

Noise Free Wireless alleges Apple is tone deaf over sound reduction patent, files lawsuit to match


Noise Free Wireless alleges Apple is tone deaf over sound reduction patent, files lawsuit to match
Apple faces litigation claiming that it's using patented technology all the time, often from small patent holding companies with dollar signs in their eyes. Noise Free Wireless has just filed a patent lawsuit against Apple whose allegations are considerably, well, louder. The firm maintains that it had been pitching its patented noise cancellation to Apple in periodic meetings between 2007 and 2010, only to watch as 1 Infinite Loop used Audience's technology for the iPhone 4 instead -- and supposedly handed some of Noise Free's work to a competitor. An Apple patent filed the same year borrows some of that work, Noise Free insists, in addition to the iPhone in question. Neither side is talking about the details to outlets like Macworld, although we'd be cautious about accepting either company's position at face value. However much Apple may protest its innocence regardless of circumstances, Noise Free certainly has a vested interest in retribution after losing out on such a big contract.Filed under: CellphonesNoise Free Wireless alleges Apple is tone deaf over sound reduction patent, files lawsuit to match originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 09 Jul 2012 17:11:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink Macworld | Noise Free vs. Apple (DocumentCloud) | Email this | Comments

Engadget Mobile Podcast 145 - 07.09.2012

Posted: 09 Jul 2012 02:18 PM PDT

Engadget Mobile Podcast 145 - 07.09.2012


Engadget Mobile Podcast 145 - 07.09.2012
A sub-90-minute Engadget Mobile Podcast is a rare breed, and a sub-90-minute Engadget Mobile Podcast with Joseph Volpe is a sighting of albino liger proportions. Take in this breath of fresh air, tinged with the sweet confectionist scents coming down from the Mountain View and the smell of money their distributors and competitors are either making or losing in other areas of the universe.Hosts: Myriam Joire (tnkgrl), Brad MolenGuest: Joseph VolpeProducer: Trent WolbeMusic: Tycho - Coastal Brake (Ghostly International) 00:27:10 - Motorola ICS UI review: this isn't the Blur we used to know 00:51:49 - Samsung denied: Judge Koh declines to lift injunction against Galaxy Nexus, but Google's got a workaround 00:58:52 - RIM's Thorsten Heins denies company's 'death spiral,' predicts successful transition to BlackBerry 10 01:04:38 - Motorola Atrix HD revealed with 4.5-inch Colorboost HD display, ICS and Droid RAZR looks 01:12:13 - HTC reveals Q2 2012 financial results: 57.8 percent net profit drop blamed on customs issues and weak sales 01:15:45 - Bloomberg: Amazon is planning a smartphone Hear the podcastSubscribe to the podcast [iTunes] Subscribe to the Podcast directly in iTunes [RSS MP3] Add the Engadget Mobile Podcast feed (in MP3) to your RSS aggregator and have the show delivered automatically [RSS AAC] Add the Engadget Mobile Podcast feed (in enhanced AAC) to your RSS aggregator [Zune] Subscribe to the Podcast directly in the Zune MarketplaceDownload the podcastLISTEN (MP3)LISTEN (AAC) Contact the podcast podcast (at) engadgetmobile (dot) com.Follow us on Twitter@tnkgrl @phonewisdom @engadgetmobile @jrvolpeFiled under: PodcastsEngadget Mobile Podcast 145 - 07.09.2012 originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 09 Jul 2012 16:48:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

4D technology coming to 200 US cinemas to help you feel and smell the action

Posted: 09 Jul 2012 01:45 PM PDT

4D technology coming to 200 US cinemas to help you feel and smell the action


4D technology coming to 200 US cinemas to help you feel and smell the action
Booming 64-track soundtrack at the cinema making you yawn? Already jaded about 4K , 3D and high frame-rates? If so, a company called CJ Group out of Korea may be able to blast you from your stupor -- it's bringing so-called 4D to nearly 200 theaters stateside. That extra 'D' won't let you warp spacetime, but instead will bring your other senses into play with seats that move and thump, smells from things like flowers or gunpowder, and artificial wind, rain and lightening. All that extra stimulation could bump the freight of a seat by around eight bucks, and movie house owners will need to shell out half of the $2 million cost to retrofit each salon. But CJ Group claims it's been hugely popular in markets like Asia and Mexico, and theaters there have quickly recouped the cost due to its popularity. Of course, you wouldn't want all that strang and durm on certain films, but lots of cinematic squealers could use a good dose of extra lipstick.4D technology coming to 200 US cinemas to help you feel and smell the action originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 09 Jul 2012 16:24:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | LA Times | Email this | Comments

Opel Adam hatch caught sans camo

Posted: 09 Jul 2012 01:13 PM PDT

Opel Adam hatch caught sans camo


Opel Adam hatch caught sans camo
Filed under: Opel, Europe/EU, UK, Spy Shots Two weeks ago we brought you some of the worst spy shots ever, revealing the forthcoming Opel Adam minicar. Today we've got more. These are remarkably better - yet still low res - shots of Opel's long-gestating competitor to the Volkswagen Up! But hey, they're better than nothing, and at least we've finally got an undisguised look at exactly what Europeans will be getting from the German GM subsidiary when the Adam is revealed at the Paris Motor Show in the fall. We like the overall proportions, the wheels and the contrasting roof. While the front fascia isn't nearly as cute as the Fiat 500, at least it's not scowling. The one thing that rubs us the wrong way, however, is how off the front overhang looks, like it belongs on a larger car. Of course, the caveat here is that these are hardly beauty shots so we'll not prematurely judge the Adam before we see it out in the real world. Check out all the images in our gallery.Opel Adam hatch caught sans camo originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 09 Jul 2012 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

IndoorAtlas uses disturbances in the (geomagnetic) force to map interiors, plot...

Posted: 09 Jul 2012 01:13 PM PDT

IndoorAtlas uses disturbances in the (geomagnetic) force to map interiors, plot a path to aisle 3 (video)


IndoorAtlas uses disturbances in the (geomagnetic) force to map interiors, plot a path to aisle 3 (video)
Interior navigation is only just coming into its own, but IndoorAtlas has developed a technology that could make it just as natural as breathing -- or at least, firing up a smartphone's mapping software. Developed by a team at Finland's University of Oulu, the method relies on identifying the unique geomagnetic field of every location on Earth to get positioning through a mobile device. It's not just accurate, to less than 6.6 feet, but can work without help from wireless signals and at depths that would scare off mere mortal technologies: IndoorAtlas has already conducted tests in a mine 4,593 feet deep. Geomagnetic location-finding is already available through an Android API, with hints of more platforms in the future. It will still need some tender loving care from app developers before we're using our smartphones to navigate through the grocery store as well as IndoorAtlas does in a video after the break.Continue reading IndoorAtlas uses disturbances in the (geomagnetic) force to map interiors, plot a path to aisle 3 (video)Filed under: Cellphones, GPSIndoorAtlas uses disturbances in the (geomagnetic) force to map interiors, plot a path to aisle 3 (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 09 Jul 2012 15:55:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink ArcticStartup | IndoorAtlas | Email this | Comments

Gamification Startup SessionM Brings On Hires From Apple And Google

Posted: 09 Jul 2012 01:13 PM PDT

Gamification Startup SessionM Brings On Hires From Apple And Google


Gamification Startup SessionM Brings On Hires From Apple And Google
SessionM CEO and co-founder Lars Albright says the company has been recruiting aggressively since it raised a $20 million Series B a few months ago. Today, he's announcing three big hires from Apple and Google: Gerald Hewes, who led the analytics, optimization, and insights team for Apple's iAd program, and who's now SessionM's vice president of engineering. Amy Jerusalmi, who joined Apple through its acquisition of Quattro Wireless and led the iAd account management team. She is joining SessionM as vice president of client services. Deborah Powsner, who led product marketing for Google+, and is joining as SessionM's senior director of marketing.

Origin PC wants to put you 'in the fast lane' with back-to-school promo, hands y...

Posted: 09 Jul 2012 12:41 PM PDT

Origin PC wants to put you 'in the fast lane' with back-to-school promo, hands you a free SSD


Origin PC wants to put you 'in the fast lane' with back-to-school promo, hands you a free SSD
You know how some philosophical folks say that great things always come in pairs? Well, as it turns out, sometimes that is indeed the case. Not content with handing its fans a free trip towards the promised Ivy Bridge land, Origin PC's kicking off its 2012 back-to-school promotion with a couple of solid-state goodies to help you save some time during your every-day computer activities. The deal is quite simple: shell out some cash on one of the outfit's qualifying machines and you've got yourself a gratis 128GB or 256GB SSD -- this, naturally, includes the EON11-S, EON15-S, EON17-S and that beastly GENESIS, just to mention a few. As Origin PC points out, the worldwide deal's limited to one per customer, can't be combined with any other offer and it'll run until there's no more supplies to give. If all that sounds good, then head over to the company's site to get in on it, as well as check out the full list of units involved in the BTS promo.Continue reading Origin PC wants to put you 'in the fast lane' with back-to-school promo, hands you a free SSDFiled under: Desktops, LaptopsOrigin PC wants to put you 'in the fast lane' with back-to-school promo, hands you a free SSD originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 09 Jul 2012 15:33:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Origin PC | Email this | Comments

Samsung Galaxy S III for Verizon Wireless review

Posted: 09 Jul 2012 12:41 PM PDT

Samsung Galaxy S III for Verizon Wireless review


Samsung Galaxy S III for Verizon Wireless review
More Info Galaxy S III (I9300) review Galaxy S III review shootout: AT&T vs. Sprint Galaxy S III for T-Mobile review Your girlfriend might be three times a lady, but the Samsung Galaxy S III is four times a smartphone -- at least when it comes to the US. Indeed, the manufacturer's latest flagship device has managed to hit the cellular equivalent of a grand slam stateside, as each of the four national carriers are adding it to their respective smartphone lineups. For the first time since the original Galaxy S series made its debut two years ago, customers won't have to bother switching carriers just for the privilege of using one of the best devices on the planet. But there was a rather significant asterisk associated with the original Galaxy S's reign on American soil: even though all four major networks offered it, none of the carrier-branded iterations used the same name or design as the original model that inspired them. Fast-forward two years to 2012, and it's a completely different ballgame -- the Galaxy S III on each mobile operator bears the same name and design. Hold an AT&T-branded model next to its T-Mobile counterpart, for instance, and you'll have a rather difficult time telling the two apart. Same with Sprint and Verizon; aside from the logos on the back and a couple other tiny differences, you're seeing the same exact phone across the board. Not only has Verizon been waiting in the dugout for its time to step up to the plate, but an untold number of customers undoubtedly have been, too. Given its brand recognition and top-of-the-line features, the Galaxy S III has a shot at becoming the all-star in Big Red's lineup. So how does Samsung's new darling hold up on the country's biggest network? Join us after the seventh inning stretch to find out.Gallery: Samsung Galaxy S III (Verizon) overviewContinue reading Samsung Galaxy S III for Verizon Wireless reviewFiled under: Cellphones, WirelessSamsung Galaxy S III for Verizon Wireless review originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 09 Jul 2012 15:30:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

CEO Heins Wants To Restore “Faith” In RIM, Hints At First BlackBerry 10 Phone In...

Posted: 09 Jul 2012 12:41 PM PDT

CEO Heins Wants To Restore "Faith" In RIM, Hints At First BlackBerry 10 Phone In January


CEO Heins Wants To Restore "Faith" In RIM, Hints At First BlackBerry 10 Phone In January
And RIM's post-earnings PR offensive continues. This time, RIM CEO Thorsten Heins sat down with the folks at CIO for an in-depth interview about himself and the company's future, and as you may expect he had a few juicy tidbits to reveal. The most notable of those little revelations has to do with the company's forthcoming BlackBerry 10 smartphones. Last month RIM infamously delayed the launch of their first BB10 devices until "Q1 2013" and left it at that. Interestingly, Mr. Heins seems to have put a finer point on that launch window.

Ken Block's Gymkhana Five Unleashed

Posted: 09 Jul 2012 12:41 PM PDT

Ken Block's Gymkhana Five Unleashed


Ken Block's Gymkhana Five Unleashed
San Francisco's streets are assaulted by a 650-horse, AWD missile.

MIT researchers develop chip that can harvest energy from multiple sources

Posted: 09 Jul 2012 12:41 PM PDT

MIT researchers develop chip that can harvest energy from multiple sources


MIT researchers develop chip that can harvest energy from multiple sources
We've seen a number of different devices that can harvest energy from various sources, but none quite like this new chip developed by a team of MIT researchers. It's able to harvest energy from three different sources simultaneously: light, heat and vibrations. The key to that is a sophisticated control system that's able to rapidly switch between the three sources at all times to prevent any of that energy from going to waste (and not draw too much power itself), with energy from the secondary sources stored in capacitors to be picked up later -- as opposed to existing systems that simply switch between sources based on what's most plentiful. As doctoral student Saurav Bandyopadhyay explains, efficiently managing those disparate sources could be a "big advantage since many of these sources are intermittent and unpredictable," and it could in turn lead to the chip being used in a range of different applications where batteries or existing energy harvesting methods just aren't enough: everything from environmental sensors in remote locations to biomedical devices.Filed under: Misc. Gadgets, ScienceMIT researchers develop chip that can harvest energy from multiple sources originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 09 Jul 2012 15:06:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink PhysOrg | MIT | Email this | Comments

The 3,000,000 Mile Volvo

Posted: 09 Jul 2012 12:40 PM PDT

The 3,000,000 Mile Volvo


The 3,000,000 Mile Volvo
New York driver and his '66 Volvo prepare to drive into the record books.

Pink Nokia Lumia 900 headed for AT&T July 15th, demands a Psychedelic Furs ringtone

Posted: 09 Jul 2012 12:06 PM PDT

Pink Nokia Lumia 900 headed for AT&T July 15th, demands a Psychedelic Furs ringtone


Pink Nokia Lumia 900 headed for AT&T July 15th, demands a Psychedelic Furs ringtone
That Nokia Lumia 900 Batman edition not quite your thing? Looks like the Windows Phone handset's getting yet another version, this time in an eye-catching pink. The new color joins white, black and cyan, heading exclusively to AT&T this Sunday, July 15th. Need some apps to run on that 1.4Ghz processor? Nokia recommends Groupon, Fruit Ninja and the Instagram-esque Apict, for interested parties.Filed under: CellphonesPink Nokia Lumia 900 headed for AT&T July 15th, demands a Psychedelic Furs ringtone originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 09 Jul 2012 14:44:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Twitter, Nokia | Email this | Comments

D-Link expands Cloud lineup with two new routers and NAS drive

Posted: 09 Jul 2012 12:06 PM PDT

D-Link expands Cloud lineup with two new routers and NAS drive


D-Link expands Cloud lineup with two new routers and NAS drive
D-Link is expanding its Cloud lineup today, announcing two new routers and a two-bay NAS device. The Cloud Gigabit Router N300 is capable of up to 300 Mbps, while the Cloud Gigabit Router N600 hits 600 Mbps. Both products include a USB port for sharing content over a network, along with DLNA support and Gigabit Ethernet ports. The routers will also feature the company's mydlink Cloud Services functionality, which lets users keep tabs on their networks via an app for Android and iOS. D-Link also introduced the new ShareCenter 2-bay Cloud NAS, which supports up to 3TB hard drives and handles RAID 1, RAID 0, Standard and JBOD configurations. Like the two routers, the 2-bay Cloud NAS offers DLNA support and works with the mydlink mobile app for monitoring your network remotely. According to SlashGear, the N300 will go for £64.99 (about $100), while the N600 will cost you £84.99 (about $131). The NAS should set you back about £89.99 ($139), and all three devices will be available for pre-order on July 16th.Filed under: Household, WirelessD-Link expands Cloud lineup with two new routers and NAS drive originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 09 Jul 2012 14:28:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink SlashGear | | Email this | Comments

Mazda Demio EV leasing begins in Japan in October

Posted: 09 Jul 2012 11:31 AM PDT

Mazda Demio EV leasing begins in Japan in October


Mazda Demio EV leasing begins in Japan in October
Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Mazda, Japan Looks like Mazda is going to do some "Zoom Zoom" of the quieter variety. The company will start leasing the Demio EV in Japan in October, as the Japanese automaker takes slow steps towards electric-drive-vehicle availability. The battery-electric version of the Demio, which sells as the Mazda2 in the U.S., will be made available to about 100 corporate and government entities in the Chugoku region of western Japan. No monthly rate was disclosed, though Mazda estimated the (theoretical) purchase price of about 3.58 million yen, or about $45,000. The 2,600-pound Demio EV will deliver about 100 horsepower as well as a single-charge range of about 125 miles, per Japanese testing cycle. Late last year, Automotive News reported that Mazda will start offering an EV in the U.S. by 2018, in part to conform to zero-emissions vehicle mandates in California. The automaker last year set a goal to boost fleetwide fuel economy by about 30 percent over the next three years largely through its SkyActiv program, which employs engine, aerodynamics, transmission and lightweighting improvements to reduce fuel use in its internal combustion engines. Mazda has set a goal to sell as many as 160,000 SkyActiv vehicles annually.Continue reading Mazda Demio EV leasing begins in Japan in OctoberMazda Demio EV leasing begins in Japan in October originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 09 Jul 2012 14:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Verizon blames Samsung for locked bootloader in Galaxy S III

Posted: 09 Jul 2012 10:58 AM PDT

Verizon blames Samsung for locked bootloader in Galaxy S III


Verizon blames Samsung for locked bootloader in Galaxy S III
Verizon cleared up its stance on locking the bootloaders in phones using its network earlier this year. In short: it encourages OEMs to do so to keep its network humming along as Big Red feels it should. Well, it seems that VZW has changed that stance somewhat, as it's laid blame for the Galaxy S III's closed bootloader squarely at Samsung's feet, claiming that it's locked "per the Manufacturer." Now, that doesn't explicitly state that VZW had no part to play in denying users access, but it surely seems like this is a game of PR pass the buck to us. Of course, as we reported earlier, there's a workaround to be had by rooting the GSIII, which revealed a vulnerability allowing non-stock ROMs to be flashed to the device. But it's only a partial workaround, as the kernel's encrypted and implementing a full custom ROM experience is neither for the unskilled nor the faint of heart. We reached out to both Verizon and Samsung for comment on the matter, but have yet to hear back. While you wait for official word, feel free to check out the ongoing conversation at the source link below. [Thanks, @supercurio]Filed under: Cellphones, SoftwareVerizon blames Samsung for locked bootloader in Galaxy S III originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 09 Jul 2012 13:48:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | @VZWSupport (Twitter) | Email this | Comments

AT&T Samsung Galaxy Note ICS update coming tomorrow, offers Premium Suite

Posted: 09 Jul 2012 10:57 AM PDT

AT&T Samsung Galaxy Note ICS update coming tomorrow, offers Premium Suite


AT&T Samsung Galaxy Note ICS update coming tomorrow, offers Premium Suite
How much better will that Samsung Galaxy Note be when you have Ice Cream Sandwich on it? AT&T users are about to find out, as Samsung confirmed to us that the long-awaited upgrade will be knocking on their doors beginning tomorrow (with a few lucky testers getting it later today). As for the new features, the Galaxy Note's latest refresh won't offer anything we weren't already expecting: in addition to the standard suite of ICS features, it'll also come with the same Premium Suite we saw show up on the international Note a couple months ago. The new Suite offers some huge improvements in S-Memo and S-Note, as the latter is now integrated with Wolphram Alpha. Sadly, the software features we've seen highlighted in the Galaxy S III series (S-Beam, S-Voice, Smart Stay and so on) are nowhere to be found, but at least you'll have plenty of other new items to keep you occupied for a while.AT&T Samsung Galaxy Note ICS update coming tomorrow, offers Premium Suite originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 09 Jul 2012 13:30:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

YC-Backed Plivo Launches Its Scalable API Platform For Voice & SMS Apps

Posted: 09 Jul 2012 10:57 AM PDT

YC-Backed Plivo Launches Its Scalable API Platform For Voice & SMS Apps


YC-Backed Plivo Launches Its Scalable API Platform For Voice & SMS Apps
Plivo, a telephony startup from the current Y Combinator batch, is today launching its API platform for voice and SMS applications. Despite the sound of it, Plivo is not a direct competitor with developer-friendly Twilio, but is targeting larger businesses in need of scale. The company's founders, Venkatesh B and Michael Ricordeau (who go by Venky and Mike), met over GitHub two years ago, while each were working on their own telephony applications. Venky has seven years of telecom experience and Mike has ten, so they're both deeply familiar with both the challenges and the opportunities of working in this space. In an effort to "scratch their own itch," as they say, the two began collaborating on what would become Plivo.

Nikon WU-1a wireless mobile adapter for D3200 review: using Android as a remote...

Posted: 09 Jul 2012 10:24 AM PDT

Nikon WU-1a wireless mobile adapter for D3200 review: using Android as a remote trigger / wireless display


Nikon WU-1a wireless mobile adapter for D3200 review: using Android as a remote trigger / wireless display
In the world of DSLR shooting, you can certainly catch one's attention by mentioning one of two things: a wireless display, or a remote trigger setup. Neither of these are exactly fresh concepts, but Nikon has chosen a curious beast to highlight one of its most promising accessories to date. The $60 WU-1a Wireless Mobile Adapter primarily allows two things to happen. First, it enables your Android phone or tablet (and soon, iOS device) to act as a wireless display. You shoot an image, and within seconds, that image is ready for your ogling on a far larger display than the 3-incher found on the D3200's backside. For those looking for a far better way to review each shot without pulling out the laptop, this is it. Nikon D3200 hands-on Triggertrap: nine ways to activate your DSLR with an iOS device Engadget Primed: Cameras The other function -- the one we at Engadget were most intrigued by -- is the ability to use a mobile device to wirelessly trigger a shot. The adapter relies on WPS (WiFi Protected Setup) in order to converse with one's Android device, enabling a connection even when you're away from a cellular data signal or WiFi network. Frankly, we were overly bummed to see the entry-level D3200 gain compatibility before full-frame shooters like the D800, D3S and D4 -- after all, it sure seems that professionals would be seeking these features more than novices. In the end, however, it's probably best that more spendy clients be kept far, far away from the disappointment. Join us after the break as we explain. Gallery: Nikon WU-1a mobile wireless adapter hands-onContinue reading Nikon WU-1a wireless mobile adapter for D3200 review: using Android as a remote trigger / wireless displayNikon WU-1a wireless mobile adapter for D3200 review: using Android as a remote trigger / wireless display originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 09 Jul 2012 13:15:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Thorsten Heins talks BB10 delay, promises to 'reinstall faith in RIM' in January...

Posted: 09 Jul 2012 10:23 AM PDT

Thorsten Heins talks BB10 delay, promises to 'reinstall faith in RIM' in January with full touch device


Thorsten Heins talks BB10 delay, promises to 'reinstall faith in RIM' in January with full touch device
Despite all the doom and gloom at RIM of late, CEO Thorsten Heins is a long, long way from throwing in the towel. After denying a "death spiral" and responding directly to Globe & Mail reader questions, he sat down with CIO's Al Sacco to talk about what he sees coming next year -- and why we're going to have to wait another couple of months for BB10. The reason for delay, he says, "is not because we added stuff to it. The delay is because our software groups were actually so successful in coding the various feature components... we got overwhelmed by integration efforts." In other words, the company didn't add too much stuff, there simply was too much stuff. That's a very different state of affairs. That being the state of play, the decision to delay again was a natural one, says Heins. "What I commit to the public out there is that when we ship BlackBerry 10, we will do it at high quality." And he, of course, has high hopes for what they ship. "In January with the full touch device and the QWERTY coming, I think we will reinstall faith in RIM." That seems to imply a January release for the device, or at least a final media unveiling, which could make the 2013 CES RIM's last, best hope.Thorsten Heins talks BB10 delay, promises to 'reinstall faith in RIM' in January with full touch device originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 09 Jul 2012 13:14:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | CIO | Email this | Comments

Facebook App Center goes globetrotting with 7 new countries, blankets all of the...

Posted: 09 Jul 2012 10:23 AM PDT

Facebook App Center goes globetrotting with 7 new countries, blankets all of the English-speaking world


Facebook App Center goes globetrotting with 7 new countries, blankets all of the English-speaking world
Facebook's App Center is having its passport stamped quite a lot lately. Just days after the HTML5 app portal set foot in the UK, it's making the leap to seven more countries. Brazil, France, Germany, Russia, Spain, Taiwan and Turkey will all get a crack at using web apps both on the desktop as well as in the Android and iOS native clients. The new group is coming onboard in the next few weeks. In the meantime, countries where English makes a frequent appearance -- Australia, Canada, India, Ireland, New Zealand, the UK and the US -- now supply the App Center for every single user. To help speed along the virtual customs claims, Facebook is trotting out a translation tool to get developers on the right track. It shouldn't be long before App Center is a mainstay of the entire Facebook world, even though we may end up cursing the company after hour three of a Jetpack Joyride marathon.Continue reading Facebook App Center goes globetrotting with 7 new countries, blankets all of the English-speaking worldFacebook App Center goes globetrotting with 7 new countries, blankets all of the English-speaking world originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 09 Jul 2012 12:54:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Facebook Developer Blog | Email this | Comments

2012 Audi A8 Hybrid

Posted: 09 Jul 2012 09:49 AM PDT

2012 Audi A8 Hybrid


2012 Audi A8 Hybrid
Filed under: Hybrid, MPG, Audi, First DriveDiesel Versus Electrons Debate Continues When it comes to the hybrid market, we assume - as most of you probably do as well - that the United States is at the top of the list to get whatever hybrid models an automaker builds. That vision is apparently altering for the Germans, though, as Audi is not bringing this A8 Hybrid to the States, instead favoring Western Europe and particularly Asia. The start of deliveries in Europe already commenced in May, and Asian deliveries will start by 2013 as Audi mulls bringing the long-wheelbase version there, as well as a right-hand-drive model. The choice to not invite North American consumers to the party might not be a forever sort of thing, but at least for the next few years, the plan appears to be set in stone. To be honest, Audi's full parallel hybrid strategy, along with that of parent Volkswagen Group's larger cars and SUVs in general, isn't terribly amazing - there's no thinking going on outside of the box here. Across the entire VW corporate family, the better choice for these bigger cruisers is always the range of outstanding diesels that generally weigh less and can cost less than their hybrid brethren. Nonetheless, Audi's high-tech image demands that the brand show it can play in every alternative propulsion sector. With China being Audi's best market by far, this A8 Hybrid has that nation writ all over its business plan.Continue reading 2012 Audi A8 Hybrid2012 Audi A8 Hybrid originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 09 Jul 2012 11:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Huawei Ascend D1 now up for grabs in China, headed to Russia next month

Posted: 09 Jul 2012 09:48 AM PDT

Huawei Ascend D1 now up for grabs in China, headed to Russia next month


Huawei Ascend D1 now up for grabs in China, headed to Russia next month
Being related to that considerably powerful Ascend D Quad could spark some sort of a double-edged sword effect on Huawei's lesser-specced D1, but if all those cores the former has to offer mean nothing to those in China, the latter wouldn't be such a bad choice. In case you've forgotten -- unlike its beefier, quad-core-loaded brother -- this 4.5-inch (1280 x 720) Ascend D1's only sporting a dual-core, 1.5GHz TI OMAP CPU, which is paired next to 1GB of RAM and a tasty bite of Google's 4.0 treat. According to Huawei, the device is set to hit online shelves throughout the Great Wall starting today, with Russia being its next stop come August and "other markets to follow" sometime after. Be sure to pay the source below a visit if you're planning on grabbing one of these for yourself.Continue reading Huawei Ascend D1 now up for grabs in China, headed to Russia next monthHuawei Ascend D1 now up for grabs in China, headed to Russia next month originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 09 Jul 2012 12:35:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Huawei | Email this | Comments

Eruptive Games Takes $1M For Zombie Killing, Action-Adventure Social Games

Posted: 09 Jul 2012 09:48 AM PDT

Eruptive Games Takes $1M For Zombie Killing, Action-Adventure Social Games


Eruptive Games Takes $1M For Zombie Killing, Action-Adventure Social Games
Eruptive Games, a Vancouver-based developer that's shortly set to launch a zombie-killing game called Citizen Grim, just picked up $1 million in funding. Investors include Kevin Colleran, who was one of Facebook's first 10 employees, Guitar Hero creator Kai Huang and Nadeem Kassam of Zynik. A Russian social game developer called Plarium is also putting funding in and will act as an adviser. Mayfield Fund's Tim Chang is also an adviser. Like Kixeye and Kabam, Eruptive isn't targeting casual gamers, but rather more hard-core players. These types of games may not attract the sheer number of users that Zynga games might, but they tend to monetize far better because they attract a more selective audience that is more willing to pay for items in games.

LG Optimus 4X HD review: runner-up to the quad-core throne

Posted: 09 Jul 2012 09:48 AM PDT

LG Optimus 4X HD review: runner-up to the quad-core throne


LG Optimus 4X HD review: runner-up to the quad-core throne
More Info LG Optimus L7 review LG Optimus 4X HD unveiled LG Optimus 4X HD hands-on LG has an ongoing smartphone problem: despite a few valiant efforts (the G2x comes to mind) the company continues to live in the shadow of rival Samsung. Most of this malaise can be attributed to hit-and-miss hardware combined with lackluster software (we're looking at you, Spectrum). Last February, at Mobile World Congress, LG spiced things up with an attractive collection of devices including the Optimus L7, Optimus Vu and Optimus 4X HD -- the latter being one of the first quad-core handsets announced. Now, six months later, we live in a world where the global versions of HTC's One X and Samsung's Galaxy S III dominate the superphone market and share the quad-core crown. With me-too features like a Tegra 3 processor, 4.7-inch HD display, 8-megapixel camera and Ice Cream Sandwich on board, the Optimus 4X HD appears ready to play in the big leagues. Does it succeed or is it just a flash in the pan? Is it all style over substance or does it bring something unique and meaningful to the table? Hit the break for our full review.Gallery: LG Optimus 4X HD reviewContinue reading LG Optimus 4X HD review: runner-up to the quad-core throneLG Optimus 4X HD review: runner-up to the quad-core throne originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 09 Jul 2012 12:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

AT&T U-Verse iPad app adds more streaming video, new sports and sharing features

Posted: 09 Jul 2012 09:48 AM PDT

AT&T U-Verse iPad app adds more streaming video, new sports and sharing features


AT&T U-Verse iPad app adds more streaming video, new sports and sharing features
AT&T launched an iPad app earlier this year and it's recently been updated with a few new features for subscribers to the service bringing it closer to the vision of the ComplenTV app we saw demonstrated at CES. Now, it can link directly to your U-Verse TV box to pull in up to the minute companion content for any sports events might be watching like scores, reviews of previous games and schedules, or share what you're watching to Twitter and Facebook. Also available for all iOS devices is an expanded lineup of video on-demand content including HBO(R), Cinemax(R), Starz, Encore, Movieplex and Music Choice videos. Also recently added for the iPhone and iPod touch is a full remote control with DVR and guide controls, just like the iPad app already had. There's more details on the free apps in the press release after the break, or in their descriptions on iTunes.Continue reading AT&T U-Verse iPad app adds more streaming video, new sports and sharing featuresAT&T U-Verse iPad app adds more streaming video, new sports and sharing features originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 09 Jul 2012 11:47:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | iPad app, iPhone app | Email this | Comments

Twitter for iOS 4.3 gets early teases from Twitter itself and the App Store, pro...

Posted: 09 Jul 2012 09:48 AM PDT

Twitter for iOS 4.3 gets early teases from Twitter itself and the App Store, promises gobs of in-tweet content


Twitter for iOS 4.3 gets early teases from Twitter itself and the App Store, promises gobs of in-tweet content
Twitter has been making a push for expanded tweets in mobile, and there's now some very strong indications that its native apps' tweets will get extra-stuffed in the near future. Some skulking around the future App Store layout from 9to5 Mac reader Sonny Dickson has shown an as yet unreleased Twitter 4.3 release carrying "more interactive experiences" for links within certain posts -- in other words, expect a multimedia extravaganza if a friend really digs that New York Times article. Notifications should also get a much-needed refinement through an end to overly aggressive alerts in-app while bringing in selective, by-user notifications to find out when Mark Zuckerberg finally posts again. While Twitter has stayed mostly hush-hush on the update, the company's own corporate development VP Kevin Thau couldn't contain himself: his attempt to one-up Facebook this weekend showed a slightly redesigned iOS app that most certainly isn't sitting on our own devices. Controversies from The Next Web over the update's identification of third-party apps notwithstanding -- we don't know if it's intentional -- all signs point to Twitter on iOS (and no doubt Android) getting a tune-up before long.Twitter for iOS 4.3 gets early teases from Twitter itself and the App Store, promises gobs of in-tweet content originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 09 Jul 2012 11:22:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink The Next Web | 9to5 Mac, Kevin Thau (Twitter) | Email this | Comments

Honda's versatile little N Box+ hits the scene... in Japan only

Posted: 09 Jul 2012 09:48 AM PDT

Honda's versatile little N Box+ hits the scene... in Japan only


Honda's versatile little N Box+ hits the scene... in Japan only
Filed under: Etc., Honda, Japan Last November, Honda introduced the N Box, an all-new kei car, and it has been a great success to date. Less than a year on and with nearly 100,000 sold, the automaker has introduced the N Box+, an evolution showcasing the additional possibilities of the microvan. Putting the "plus" in the N Box+ are the Universal Bridge and the Multi-space System. The former is an integrated aluminum loading ramp in the cargo floor that can be extended, U-Haul style, to ease loading. The latter is a set of panels that can break the cargo bay into different configurations, from shifting the height of the floor to creating a full-length bed once the two rows of seats are lowered. The N Box+ comes in all kinds of configurations and paint schemes, from ¥1,350,000 ($16,948 U.S.) for the front-wheel, naturally aspirated drive G trim, to ¥1,870,000 for the four-wheel-drive, two-tone G Package Turbo with with paddle shifters. All N Box+ models have 660cc engines (per kei car regulations) and a CVT. Scroll down for the press release and get a load of the funkiness in the attached photo gallery.Continue reading Honda's versatile little N Box+ hits the scene... in Japan onlyHonda's versatile little N Box+ hits the scene... in Japan only originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 09 Jul 2012 10:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

MINI Confirms Paceman Production

Posted: 09 Jul 2012 08:42 AM PDT

MINI Confirms Paceman Production


MINI Confirms Paceman Production
Brand's 7th model will come to the US in 2013.