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Wednesday, August 15, 2012

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Twitter founders create Branch and Medium to keep the conversations, collections...

Posted: 15 Aug 2012 03:08 PM PDT

Twitter founders create Branch and Medium to keep the conversations, collections flowing


Twitter founders create Branch and Medium to keep the conversations, collections flowing
If you've ever been so embroiled in a chat or sharing splurge that you've been told to "take it off of Twitter," you now can -- sort of. Twitter co-creators Biz Stone and Ev Williams have launched Branch and Medium, two companion services that (naturally) use a Twitter sign-in but narrow the focus to just a few subjects. As the name suggests, Branch lets especially vocal Twitter users invite others into conversations that don't clutter everyone's feeds or cut replies off at the 140-character limit. Medium? Think of it as Pinterest turned publishing platform: members can publish either a static collection of favorite articles and media, for reading and rating, or leave it open for more collaborative efforts. There's no rush to open the floodgates to the invitation-only portals, though. Stone and Williams see the quietness of their new services as an antidote to the madness of regular social streams, and we can't help but sympathize.Filed under: InternetTwitter founders create Branch and Medium to keep the conversations, collections flowing originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 15 Aug 2012 16:48:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink The Guardian | Branch, Medium | Email this | Comments

Razer Ouroboros gaming mouse hands-on

Posted: 15 Aug 2012 02:34 PM PDT

Razer Ouroboros gaming mouse hands-on


Razer Ouroboros gaming mouse hands-on
You recall the Ouroboros, right? Nope, not the mythical snake yarn, the latest gaming mouse from Razer that inadvertently broke cover over at the FCC. While it's been official for around a month, Germany's annual gaming convention has offered us our first chance to to get to grips with it. Razer has tied itself in a ergonomic knot over the Ouroboros, with most of the mouse's dimensions happily adjustable to suit practically any gamer hand. We get customizing right after the break. Gallery: Razer Ourobos gaming mouse hands-onContinue reading Razer Ouroboros gaming mouse hands-onFiled under: Gaming, PeripheralsRazer Ouroboros gaming mouse hands-on originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 15 Aug 2012 16:40:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Verizon's LTE network hits 34 new markets tomorrow, set to cover over 75 percent...

Posted: 15 Aug 2012 02:01 PM PDT

Verizon's LTE network hits 34 new markets tomorrow, set to cover over 75 percent of the US


Verizon's LTE network hits 34 new markets tomorrow, set to cover over 75 percent of the US
Big Red's push to blanket the entire US with those lovable Long Term Evolution waves just got a heck of a lot closer, as the carrier's announced it's bringing true 4G to 34 new markets and expanding coverage in other parts of the country. For starters, folks around Hot Springs, Arkansas, Reading, Pennsylvania, Longview, Washington and Laredo, Texas will finally be able to get the most out that marvelous Galaxy S III -- or, perhaps, something like the newfangled Galaxy Tab 2 7.0. Meanwhile, Verizon's also let it be known it's expanding LTE coverage in previously covered markets, including big-name cities such as New York, Boston, Los Angeles, Las Vegas and New Orleans. There are more cities involved in the process, but for that our friends, you'll have to peek at the presser located right after the break.Continue reading Verizon's LTE network hits 34 new markets tomorrow, set to cover over 75 percent of the USFiled under: Cellphones, WirelessVerizon's LTE network hits 34 new markets tomorrow, set to cover over 75 percent of the US originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 15 Aug 2012 16:38:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink Droid Life | Verizon | Email this | Comments

Fisker lands former GM exec and Chevy Volt guru Tony Posawatz as CEO

Posted: 15 Aug 2012 02:01 PM PDT

Fisker lands former GM exec and Chevy Volt guru Tony Posawatz as CEO


Fisker lands former GM exec and Chevy Volt guru Tony Posawatz as CEO
Fisker hasn't had what you'd call the best year so far, but it may have found the ticket to turning its hybrid vehicle business around. Meet Tony Posawatz, Fisker's new CEO -- and, until just weeks ago, GM's Vehicle Line Director. Despite being the second new chief executive at Fisker since Tom LaSorda arrived in February, Posawatz needs little explanation for his sudden rise to power. He's an original member of the Chevy Volt leadership structure and could very well know a thing or two about developing a hybrid car from start to finish. His influence might only be keenly felt when the Atlantic wheels its way towards driveways in 2014, but there's no doubt he's onboard to right the good ship Karma and improve Fisker's reputation in the short term. We wouldn't want to be in GM's shoes as it watches one of its EV-friendly veterans so publicly jump ship, however.Continue reading Fisker lands former GM exec and Chevy Volt guru Tony Posawatz as CEOFiled under: TransportationFisker lands former GM exec and Chevy Volt guru Tony Posawatz as CEO originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 15 Aug 2012 16:23:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Autoblog | Email this | Comments

Has Fisker built 2,000 Karmas already? Sure sounds like it

Posted: 15 Aug 2012 01:28 PM PDT

Has Fisker built 2,000 Karmas already? Sure sounds like it


Has Fisker built 2,000 Karmas already? Sure sounds like it
Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Hybrid As much as we'd like them to, some car companies don't break out their plug-in vehicle sales for our monthly alt-car sale wrap-up posts. Tesla? Guilty. Fisker? You, too. Their lack of data doesn't mean we can't get an insight into the numbers of vehicles built and sold by the California company, we just need a roundabout way to get at it. Enter the eagle-eyed team at Green Car Reports. Fed up with the vague "about 1,000" global sales number for the Karma plug-in hybrid that we've heard for a while now, GCR has been pestering Fisker for a while about how many Karmas have been sold - to no avail. But, when they found one in the wild with a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) that ended with 001992, they figured it was number 1,992 off the line. Then, during yesterday's announcement about new CEO Tony Posawatz, Henrik Fisker happened to mention that "about 1,900" Karmas have been built thus far. As GCR writes, "While it's possible (though unlikely) that Fisker uses non-contiguous VINs, we're going to take his comment as confirmation of our query." We agree. This doesn't get us any closer to actually knowing how many sales there have been, but it's more than we had before.Has Fisker built 2,000 Karmas already? Sure sounds like it originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 15 Aug 2012 16:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Microsoft bans use of Metro name in Windows Store apps

Posted: 15 Aug 2012 01:28 PM PDT

Microsoft bans use of Metro name in Windows Store apps


Microsoft bans use of Metro name in Windows Store apps
If Microsoft can't use the Metro name, no one else can. Not in its company-owned Windows Store, at least. An update to the Windows 8 app criteria guide explicitly tells developers that any submitted Windows Store app with Metro in the title will "fail certification" -- effectively, it's banned. There's a certain irony to the aggressive stance on naming when Microsoft itself still mentions Metro prominently across many of its pages, but the restriction isn't a laughing matter for developers already trying to support an OS that doesn't ship for another two months. One of the most popular apps in the pre-release Windows Store, MetroTwit, likely faces imminent exile without a name change; there's also worries that mass transit apps might get the boot for entirely innocuous uses of the word. We've reached out to Microsoft for comment on its legal rights in the area. In the meantime, it's safe to say that "metro" is only to be spoken in hushed tones anywhere near Microsoft's official content portals.Filed under: SoftwareMicrosoft bans use of Metro name in Windows Store apps originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 15 Aug 2012 16:09:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink MarkedUp, Ars Technica | Windows Dev Center | Email this | Comments

How to make a small home feel bigger

Posted: 15 Aug 2012 01:28 PM PDT

How to make a small home feel bigger


How to make a small home feel bigger
If you're a cramped city dweller who always seems to be running out of room, here are some innovative solutions to make your place seem more spacious.

Motorola's Atrix HD now $50 on Bell Canada with three-year contract

Posted: 15 Aug 2012 12:40 PM PDT

Motorola's Atrix HD now $50 on Bell Canada with three-year contract


Motorola's Atrix HD now $50 on Bell Canada with three-year contract
Canadians who need a new LTE handset, and can make things last, can now get Motorola's Atrix HD LTE from Bell for just $50. The catch? You'll be yoking yourself in matrimony to a whopping 36-month deal, a period longer than most celebrity marriages. The 4.5-inch handset is clad in a Kevlar body and comes with Ice Cream Sandwich, so as long as you're not in the habit of flinging phones against walls, you should be okay.Motorola's Atrix HD now $50 on Bell Canada with three-year contract originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 15 Aug 2012 15:23:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink Talk Android | Bell Canada | Email this | Comments

Engadget's back to school guide 2012: HDTV

Posted: 15 Aug 2012 12:40 PM PDT

Engadget's back to school guide 2012: HDTV


Engadget's back to school guide 2012: HDTV
Welcome to Engadget's back to school guide! The end of summer vacation isn't nearly as much fun as the weeks that come before, but a chance to update your tech tools likely helps to ease the pain. Today, we're settling down in front of a few of our favorite HDTVs, but you can head to the back to school hub to see the rest of the product guides as they're added throughout the month. Be sure to keep checking back -- at the end of the series we'll be giving away a ton of the gear featured in our guides -- and hit up the hub page right here! Students today can catch high-quality video on a variety of screens -- computers, phones and tablets are probably always within reach -- but nothing can truly replace a TV's role as the center of entertainment. Whether it's a quick Madden or Call of Duty session, inviting a friend over to catch a flick or just zoning out after class, having the proper setup makes all the difference, and there are plenty of options at every price point. Of course, walking into any big-box electronics store to peer down aisles of seemingly identical flat screens could drive anyone mad before they ever step on campus, so we've narrowed down the list for you, and even suggested a few other items to plug into those HDTVs. Expanding feature sets and universal pricing have raised average prices a bit over last year, but we can find something to fit whether your budget ranges from a couple of hundred to a couple of thousand dollars. Continue reading Engadget's back to school guide 2012: HDTVFiled under: Home EntertainmentEngadget's back to school guide 2012: HDTV originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 15 Aug 2012 15:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Microsoft offers free 90-day evaluation of Windows 8 Enterprise edition to devs,...

Posted: 15 Aug 2012 12:40 PM PDT

Microsoft offers free 90-day evaluation of Windows 8 Enterprise edition to devs, releases .NET Framework 4.5 and Visual Studio 2012


Microsoft offers free 90-day evaluation of Windows 8 Enterprise edition to devs, releases .NET Framework 4.5 and Visual Studio 2012
Feeling bummed because you're an aspiring Windows 8 developer, but aren't a TechNet or MSDN subscriber, and so can't download the freshly minted Windows 8 RTM? Worry not, for a 90-day evaluation of Win8's Enterprise edition (both 32 and 64-bit versions in a variety of languages) can be had for free at the Windows Dev Center developer downloads page right now. Before you get cracking on apps for Microsoft's new OS, however, you'll need to grab the newly released Visual Studio 2012 as well. The Express version -- which allows for Metro Windows 8-style apps only -- is free, while the full Visual Studio experience is only currently available to MSDN subs. Additionally, the folks in Redmond have made it easier to write those apps by releasing the new .NET Framework 4.5 RTM. More info and all the software goodies can be found at the source links below. Microsoft devs, your downloads await.Filed under: SoftwareMicrosoft offers free 90-day evaluation of Windows 8 Enterprise edition to devs, releases .NET Framework 4.5 and Visual Studio 2012 originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 15 Aug 2012 14:55:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink The Verge | Windows 8 app developer blog, Windows Dev Center, MSDN Evaluation Center | Email this | Comments

Send to Kindle comes to Chrome, Safari and Mozilla support promised 'soon'

Posted: 15 Aug 2012 12:40 PM PDT

Send to Kindle comes to Chrome, Safari and Mozilla support promised 'soon'


Send to Kindle comes to Chrome, Safari and Mozilla support promised 'soon'
Between clients for the PC and Mac and functionality on mobile devices, Amazon's got no shortage of methods for helping users get content onto their Kindles. Just in case you still weren't happy with the available options, however, the mega-retailer has extended the list to include a Send-to-Kindle Chrome extension that lets users send posts, stories and various other content to their e-readers. The extension lets users preview content and limited it to selected text, as well. Amazon's also promising similar functionality for Firefox and Safari "soon." Check the source link below to download the offering.Filed under: Tablet PCs, SoftwareSend to Kindle comes to Chrome, Safari and Mozilla support promised 'soon' originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 15 Aug 2012 14:53:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink The Verge | Amazon | Email this | Comments

Watch Monster Tajima's new electric race car whir up Pikes Peak

Posted: 15 Aug 2012 11:52 AM PDT

Watch Monster Tajima's new electric race car whir up Pikes Peak


Watch Monster Tajima's new electric race car whir up Pikes Peak
Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Racing The car we were most excited to see at this year's Pikes Peak Hill Climb was undoubtedly Nobuhiro "Monster" Tajima's new one-off electric racer. The radically styled car, called the 2012 Monster Sport E-Runner Pikes Peak Special, represents a new challenge for the Japanese racer, who has won the event every since since 2007 and has set the overall course record twice including last year. Of course, with a new race car comes unexpected problems. While Tajima managed to run each of the practice days trouble-free - and fast - he sadly wasn't able to complete the race this past weekend due to electrical problems. His quest to remain king of the mountain and hold the best time not only the Electric division but overall will have to wait until next year. Monster's time on the mountain wasn't completely fruitless, though, as he came away with some great footage of his practice runs from various angles on the car courtesy of GoPro. Scroll down to watch the videos for yourself.Continue reading Watch Monster Tajima's new electric race car whir up Pikes PeakWatch Monster Tajima's new electric race car whir up Pikes Peak originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 15 Aug 2012 13:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Airtime testing new video post features, improved buddy list

Posted: 15 Aug 2012 11:52 AM PDT

Airtime testing new video post features, improved buddy list


Airtime testing new video post features, improved buddy list
Remember Airtime, the Facebook-integrated video calling / media sharing service with a Chatroulette flavor? Well if not, we don't blame you -- usage stats suggest it hasn't quite taken off, but maybe the new features it's testing will secure a few more fans. No longer is the service restricted to the here and now, as the major change is all about video posts. Use Airtime to record a message and you can post it to Facebook, Twitter, YouTube or via a traditional email to get the conversation started. Friends can then reply to your message through Airtime with a video post of their own, and so on. Its buddy list has also been given a little love, so now it shows friends as online, idle or offline, and details your interaction timeline. Whether the features are enough to inspire wider uptake is questionable, but for the few that actively use Airtime, the updates are out in the wild now on a "limited public release."Filed under: InternetAirtime testing new video post features, improved buddy list originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 15 Aug 2012 14:34:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink TechCrunch | Airtime | Email this | Comments

ROCCAT's new Kone Pure mouse streamlines things, while ISKU FX keyboard adds som...

Posted: 15 Aug 2012 11:52 AM PDT

ROCCAT's new Kone Pure mouse streamlines things, while ISKU FX keyboard adds some color (hands-on)


ROCCAT's new Kone Pure mouse streamlines things, while ISKU FX keyboard adds some color (hands-on)
ROCCAT's latest addition to its family of mice is the Kone Pure, toned down to 91 percent the size of the original Kone. Now both smaller and flatter, it's dropped the menu button above the four-direction scroll wheel, and that scroll wheel now goes only up and down. It's a trade-off, but ROCCAT has added a new 'easy shift' side trigger which it hopes will ameliorate that fall in the button-count. This acts as a mouse-based shift function and you can customize how all of the device's other buttons behave when the side-trigger is depressed. ROCCAT also threw in a new FX version of its ISKU keyboard here at Gamescom, adding some customizable color skills and upgraded keys that are far more legible when not backlit -- a common complaint with the original ISKU keyboard. Switching from black to white fittings under the keys has also improved the keys' visibility. Take a tour of both devices in the galleries, then jump after the break for a little more detail -- including a new prototype. Gallery: ROCCAT Kone Pure mouse hands-on Gallery: ROCCAT ISKU FX keyboard hands-onContinue reading ROCCAT's new Kone Pure mouse streamlines things, while ISKU FX keyboard adds some color (hands-on)Filed under: Gaming, PeripheralsROCCAT's new Kone Pure mouse streamlines things, while ISKU FX keyboard adds some color (hands-on) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 15 Aug 2012 14:17:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Netflix rolls out new 'post-play experience' on web player, PS3 (video)

Posted: 15 Aug 2012 11:52 AM PDT

Netflix rolls out new 'post-play experience' on web player, PS3 (video)


Netflix rolls out new 'post-play experience' on web player, PS3 (video)
If you've been marathoning a new favorite TV show on Netflix recently you may have noticed that on the PlayStation 3 (above) and browser-based (after the break, along with a quick demo video) players it's got a new tweak. At the end of each episode as the credits roll it pops up a quick (and very basic cable TV post movie-like) prompt with info about the the next episode and, unless you select a particular viewing option, search or go back to browsing, keeps right on playing. For movies, it pops up three similar recommendations instead. This "post-play" experience takes a couple of remote presses out of long viewing sessions, and on Netflix's end probably makes it easier for folks to choose to sit through "one more episode" and keep those viewing hours boosted. On the other hand, not every one likes the automation, either here or on the Xbox 360 app. Whether that's because viewers need an emotional pause after a particularly gripping episode of Lost or they -- and by they, we mean this blogger in particular -- tend to doze off mid-episode, the good news is that every other episode it prompts the user if they want to keep playing before moving on. Like every other tweak or announcement even this move will probably be debated amongst viewers, feel free to dive into the lone season of Terriers in the name of research before letting us know if you're a fan.Continue reading Netflix rolls out new 'post-play experience' on web player, PS3 (video)Filed under: Gaming, Home EntertainmentNetflix rolls out new 'post-play experience' on web player, PS3 (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 15 Aug 2012 14:13:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Netflix Blog | Email this | Comments

What Will Microsoft And Nokia’s September 5 Press Conference Be About?

Posted: 15 Aug 2012 11:52 AM PDT

What Will Microsoft And Nokia's September 5 Press Conference Be About?


What Will Microsoft And Nokia's September 5 Press Conference Be About?
PROBABLY NOKIA'S NEW WINDOWS PHONE 8 DEVICES. But seriously, Microsoft very publicly revealed the future of its Windows Phone platform a few months back. At the time Nokia though, didn't have much more to announce than some conciliatory apps for all the people whose Lumias wouldn't work with Windows Phone 8. Now it looks like Nokia and Microsoft are finally ready to talk hardware.

Sixth Circuit rules that law enforcement doesn't need a warrant to track your phone

Posted: 15 Aug 2012 11:18 AM PDT

Sixth Circuit rules that law enforcement doesn't need a warrant to track your phone


Sixth Circuit rules that law enforcement doesn't need a warrant to track your phone
If you go through tin foil like there's no tomorrow (or because you think there's no tomorrow), you might want to head down the store. A recent 2 - 1 ruling by the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals has determined that law enforcement agencies can obtain cellphone location data, without the need for a warrant. The decision comes after a defendant in a drug-related case claimed protection from his phone's GPS location data being used under the Fourth Amendment. Judge John Rogers stated that the defendant didn't have a reasonable expectation of privacy for data given off by a voluntarily purchased phone, going on to state that if tools used in such crimes give off a trackable signal, police should be allowed to use it. Rogers likened it to the use of dogs tracking a scent, and criminals complaining they didn't know they were giving one off, or that the dog had picked it up. The use of technology in crime prevention, be it police tools, or that belonging to the greater population, has long been a source of complex discussion, and this latest development is unlikely to be the end of it. But for now, at least one guy is rueing his decision to get a better phone. Hit the source for the full case history.Filed under: Cellphones, Misc. GadgetsSixth Circuit rules that law enforcement doesn't need a warrant to track your phone originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 15 Aug 2012 13:52:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink ArsTecnica | US Court of Appeals (pdf) | Email this | Comments

HP says Surface has not changed its relationship with Microsoft, promises more t...

Posted: 15 Aug 2012 11:18 AM PDT

HP says Surface has not changed its relationship with Microsoft, promises more tablet details 'pretty soon'


HP says Surface has not changed its relationship with Microsoft, promises more tablet details 'pretty soon'
HP has been offering plenty of glimpses of its upcoming Windows 8 tablet, but it so far hasn't been doing much talking about it -- or about Microsoft's own entry into the tablet market with Surface, for that matter. That's now changed thanks to an interview senior sales VP John Solomon gave to CRN, however, where he promises that HP will have more to share about its business-minded tablet "pretty soon." What's more, unlike some other big OEMs, Soloman says that HP doesn't see a problem with Microsoft's Surface plans. He says that he thinks Microsoft "was basically making a leadership statement and showing what's possible in the tablet space," adding that, "our relationship has not changed at all due to Microsoft's announcement. In fact, I applaud it." That's not to say he doesn't take some issue with Microsoft's efforts, though, noting that while the Surface's keyboard accessory is "a great occasional use keyboard," there's "no way" that professional content creators will "use a keyboard like that for everyday use." You can find the full CRN interview at the source link below.Filed under: Laptops, Tablet PCsHP says Surface has not changed its relationship with Microsoft, promises more tablet details 'pretty soon' originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 15 Aug 2012 13:41:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink The Verge, AllThingsD | CRN | Email this | Comments

Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 cases and keyboard dock eyes-on

Posted: 15 Aug 2012 11:18 AM PDT

Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 cases and keyboard dock eyes-on


Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 cases and keyboard dock eyes-on
The Galaxy Note 10.1 is now good and official stateside, and you know that means Samsung has some new accessories to shill. On hand at Lincoln Center were leather cases in a variety of colors (including white, orange and brown) along with versions that mimic the flip covers for the original Galaxy Note and the Galaxy S III -- the difference being that they don't replace the Note 10.1's backing, as that's not removable. Samsung also had a keyboard case on display, though so far we've yet to see more details. For now, you'll have to settle for our eyes-on photos below. Gallery: Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 cases and keyboard dock hands-on Zach Honig contributed to this report.Filed under: Tablet PCsSamsung Galaxy Note 10.1 cases and keyboard dock eyes-on originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 15 Aug 2012 13:29:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Nokia and Microsoft announce September 5th Windows Phone event

Posted: 15 Aug 2012 11:18 AM PDT

Nokia and Microsoft announce September 5th Windows Phone event


Nokia and Microsoft announce September 5th Windows Phone event
We just received an invite from Nokia and Microsoft to attend a Windows Phone-centric event on September 5th. This is the same day as Nokia World's opener, and we have a feeling this isn't a coincidence. Rumors have been rampant that the Finnish company would choose this particular week to announce its lineup of Windows Phone 8 devices, and we're hoping this is indeed the case. Granted, the invite comes with a large reference to Nokia Maps, so it's certainly possible the navigation service could be a primary focus of the event, but we're hedging our bets on new handsets. Either way, we'll be there to share the excitement with you.Filed under: Cellphones, Wireless, SoftwareNokia and Microsoft announce September 5th Windows Phone event originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 15 Aug 2012 13:23:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Next-Gen Range Rover Pics Leaked

Posted: 15 Aug 2012 11:17 AM PDT

Next-Gen Range Rover Pics Leaked


Next-Gen Range Rover Pics Leaked
Land Rover's flagship draws influence from the Evoque.

How people and politicians play politics with plug-in cars

Posted: 15 Aug 2012 10:07 AM PDT

How people and politicians play politics with plug-in cars


How people and politicians play politics with plug-in cars
Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Hybrid, AutoblogGreen Exclusive, Legislation and Policy, USA In a U.S. presidential election season, anything can become political. Remember the height of trees in Michigan? Well, when you're dealing with such a barrage, it's sometimes good to remember that plug-in cars have been political for a long time and, despite some politicians best efforts, progress will continue. Still, it's sometimes enlightening to take a look at how the debate over plug-in cars - which you would think would be a non-partisan issue - is being waged, especially the two biggest right-wing punching bags: the Chevrolet Volt and the Fisker Karma. There are plenty of examples conservative attacks on green cars in our archives (see here and here and here) but they quieted down earlier this year after some conservative push-back from people like Bob Lutz. Now, the attacks are back. We don't agree that the government should, "repeal the costly EV tax credits that do little to help with foreign oil dependence and only further enrich already wealthy electric car buyers." First, the Volt. Last month, Chevy started offering long-term "test-drives" of a sort for new buyers, the Chevy Confidence program, which allows buyers to have a new car for up to 60 days, including the Volt. Unsurprisingly, cries of tax credit abuse quickly rose from the same voices that have been attacking the Volt for ages. Namely, the National Legal and Policy Center's Mark Modica, who published an article called "Chevy Volt 60-Day Return Makes Tax Credit Abuse Likely." Not "reported," just likely, which is interesting. Modica describes a way for people to buy a Volt, submit the paperwork for the $7,500 federal tax credit, then return it after 59 days. The "buyer" would get the federal cash, GM would be stuck with a used Volt, and the taxpayers are on the hook. We don't agree with Modica that the government should, "repeal the costly EV tax credits that do little to help with foreign oil dependence and only further enrich already wealthy electric car buyers" but his suggestion that, "The IRS should also consider a minimum term of ownership for buyers of plug-in vehicles to qualify for tax credits" has merit. We tried to get the IRS to clarify if the Confidence program could be abused in this way, but have not heard back. The terms and conditions of the Chevy Confidence program say, "You may be subject to federal, state, or local tax on any benefit paid." The small print on the TV ads say "Not available with some other offers." So, we're not sure if Modica is right, but we do know that his anti-Volt barrage got him invited onto Fox News to talk about "the Chevy Volt village" aka the Pecan Street Partnership (see inflammatory video below).Continue reading How people and politicians play politics with plug-in carsHow people and politicians play politics with plug-in cars originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 15 Aug 2012 12:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Windows 8 RTM rolls out to developers, IT departments with TechNet subscriptions

Posted: 15 Aug 2012 10:07 AM PDT

Windows 8 RTM rolls out to developers, IT departments with TechNet subscriptions


Windows 8 RTM rolls out to developers, IT departments with TechNet subscriptions
At this point, we're expecting very few surprises when it comes to Windows 8: Microsoft just shipped the final code to OEMs, and the company already published a list of staggered dates when developers, volume licensees and Joe Schmo consumers would be able to download the software. We already knew, then, that on August 15th developers with MSDN subscriptions would be able to get the RTM build, as would IT pros subscribed to TechNet. Now that that day has come, though, it's worth repeating that those of you plugged into either the developer or TechNet program can start exploring the final software now -- a good ten weeks before the rest of the world. Don't have access? Luckily for you, Microsoft granted us early access to the RTM, and we've got a breakdown of the new features waiting for you right here.Filed under: SoftwareWindows 8 RTM rolls out to developers, IT departments with TechNet subscriptions originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 15 Aug 2012 13:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Windows 8 RTM: what's new in the final build of Windows 8?

Posted: 15 Aug 2012 10:07 AM PDT

Windows 8 RTM: what's new in the final build of Windows 8?


Windows 8 RTM: what's new in the final build of Windows 8?
It's been two weeks since Microsoft signed off on Windows 8, and shipped the final code to manufacturers prepping shiny new computers. Today, another round of folks are getting their hands on the code: devs, and IT pros with subscriptions to Microsoft's TechNet program. Of course, you might not be a developer or IT whiz and, if we're being honest, neither are we! Happily for us, though, Microsoft gave us an early peek at the RTM build -- the same software that will ship to consumers October 26th. Granted, Microsoft says it will continue tweaking the built-in apps, with updates coming through the Windows Store. Barring these minor changes, though, what you see here is what you'll get ten weeks from now. Meet us after the break for a summary of what's new.Gallery: Windows 8 RTM screenshotsContinue reading Windows 8 RTM: what's new in the final build of Windows 8?Filed under: SoftwareWindows 8 RTM: what's new in the final build of Windows 8? originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 15 Aug 2012 13:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Microsoft outs Artist Series wireless mice just in time for the fall semester wi...

Posted: 15 Aug 2012 10:07 AM PDT

Microsoft outs Artist Series wireless mice just in time for the fall semester with a $30 price tag


Microsoft outs Artist Series wireless mice just in time for the fall semester with a $30 price tag
If a regular ol' mouse just won't match your back to school wardrobe, Microsoft is looking to help out. The folks in Redmond have unveiled the Artist Series of mice that will definitely spice up your physical desktop. Designs by five artists from around the globe will wrap the topside of the Wireless Mobile Mouse 3500 and will set you back $29.99. For a look at the whole lot, peek at the gallery below while more info about each of the participants awaits at the source. Gallery: Microsoft Artist Series miceFiled under: PeripheralsMicrosoft outs Artist Series wireless mice just in time for the fall semester with a $30 price tag originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 15 Aug 2012 12:41:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Microsoft | Email this | Comments

Best Buy, Walmart, Target, more join forces for MCX mobile payment, deals provider

Posted: 15 Aug 2012 09:32 AM PDT

Best Buy, Walmart, Target, more join forces for MCX mobile payment, deals provider


Best Buy, Walmart, Target, more join forces for MCX mobile payment, deals provider
Mobile payments make strange bedfellows, so it's perhaps not all that surprising that a group of high profile retailers have teamed up to bring the world the Merchant Customer Exchange (MCX). The list includes such biggies as Best Buy, Walmart, Target, Sears, Lowe's and Shell, among others. The venture is set to offer up a mobile-commerce app that will provide payments and deals on "virtually any smartphone." Details are still pretty scarce, though the MCX's official site promises more info on the offering soon, including further details on deals and additional company names. In the meantime, there's a press release after the break.Continue reading Best Buy, Walmart, Target, more join forces for MCX mobile payment, deals providerFiled under: Cellphones, SoftwareBest Buy, Walmart, Target, more join forces for MCX mobile payment, deals provider originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 15 Aug 2012 12:20:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | MCX | Email this | Comments

Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 getting its Jelly Bean on later this year

Posted: 15 Aug 2012 09:32 AM PDT

Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 getting its Jelly Bean on later this year


Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 getting its Jelly Bean on later this year
Need a Jelly Bean surface to drag your S-Pen across? Worry not, while the Galaxy Note 10.1 won't be packing Android 4.1 right out of the box, Samsung is assuring consumers that the tablet will be getting the OS upgrade later this year, a fact the company reiterated during today's press conference. Until then, it's TouchWized Ice Cream Sandwich for you early adopters.Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 getting its Jelly Bean on later this year originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 15 Aug 2012 12:10:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

ClassDojo Lands $1.6M From Paul Graham, Ron Conway To Help Teachers Control Thei...

Posted: 15 Aug 2012 09:32 AM PDT

ClassDojo Lands $1.6M From Paul Graham, Ron Conway To Help Teachers Control Their Classrooms


ClassDojo Lands $1.6M From Paul Graham, Ron Conway To Help Teachers Control Their Classrooms
Sam Chuadhary and Liam Don launched ClassDojo in August 2011 to help teachers win back control of their disruptive classrooms. The free service allowed teachers to leverage their mobile or desktop technology of choice to track and influence student behavior. In fact, using ClassDojo is pretty straightforward: Teachers assign students an avatar and, based on their behavior throughout the day, dole out rewards or consequences (+1 for smiling, -1 for punching) from their laptop, tablet or smartphone. ClassDojo tracks behavioral data over the course of days (and semesters), allowing teachers to share results with parents. The platform quickly found an eager audience among K-12 educators. In fact, since launching just under a year ago, the startup has attracted over 3.5 million teachers and students (in more than 30 countries). To add fuel to this early traction, the startup is today officially emerging from beta and announcing that it has raised $1.6 million in seed funding from a number of familiar names, including Y Combinator co-founder Paul Graham (who invested personally, not through YC), Ron Conway, Jeff Clavier, Kapor Capital, Start Fund and more.

Engadget's back to school guide 2012: HDTV

Posted: 15 Aug 2012 09:32 AM PDT

Engadget's back to school guide 2012: HDTV


Engadget's back to school guide 2012: HDTV
Welcome to Engadget's back to school guide! The end of summer vacation isn't nearly as much fun as the weeks that come before, but a chance to update your tech tools likely helps to ease the pain. Today, we're settling down in front of a few of our favorite HDTVs, but you can head to the back to school hub to see the rest of the product guides as they're added throughout the month. Be sure to keep checking back -- at the end of the series we'll be giving away a ton of the gear featured in our guides -- and hit up the hub page right here! Students today can catch high-quality video on a variety of screens -- computers, phones and tablets are probably always within reach -- but nothing can truly replace a TV's role as the center of entertainment. Whether it's a quick Madden or Call of Duty session, inviting a friend over to catch a flick or just zoning out after class, having the proper setup makes all the difference, and there are plenty of options at every price point. Of course, walking into any big-box electronics store to peer down aisles of seemingly identical flat screens could drive anyone mad before they ever step on campus, so we've narrowed down the list for you, and even suggested a few other items to plug into those HDTVs. Expanding feature sets and universal pricing have raised average prices a bit over last year, but we can find something to fit whether your budget ranges from a couple of hundred to a couple of thousand dollars. Continue reading Engadget's back to school guide 2012: HDTVFiled under: Home EntertainmentEngadget's back to school guide 2012: HDTV originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 15 Aug 2012 12:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Holland America to buy Maine lobster

Posted: 15 Aug 2012 09:32 AM PDT

Holland America to buy Maine lobster


Holland America to buy Maine lobster
Maine officials have convinced Holland America cruise line to purchase locally caught lobsters for its cruise ships when they visit Bar Harbor several times this season.