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Saturday, August 18, 2012

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Alt-week 8.18.12: Graphene sponges, zero-g athletics and tweets in space

Posted: 18 Aug 2012 02:42 PM PDT

Alt-week 8.18.12: Graphene sponges, zero-g athletics and tweets in space


Alt-week 8.18.12: Graphene sponges, zero-g athletics and tweets in space
Alt-week peels back the covers on some of the more curious sci-tech stories from the last seven days. We see a lot of crazy stories here at Engadget, especially when we spend our week poking around in dark and scary corners of the internet specifically in search of them, just so you don't have to. We consider it a service almost. One that we're delighted to provide, we must add. When else would we be able to share such delights as an astronaut triathlete, soft, color-changing robots and a recent response to a thirty-year-old alien broadcast? Exactly. This is alt-week.Continue reading Alt-week 8.18.12: Graphene sponges, zero-g athletics and tweets in spaceFiled under: ScienceAlt-week 8.18.12: Graphene sponges, zero-g athletics and tweets in space originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 18 Aug 2012 17:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Galaxy Tab 2 7.0 Student Edition Bundle officially hits stores tomorrow, yours f...

Posted: 18 Aug 2012 02:01 PM PDT

Galaxy Tab 2 7.0 Student Edition Bundle officially hits stores tomorrow, yours for $250 until Sept.1st


Galaxy Tab 2 7.0 Student Edition Bundle officially hits stores tomorrow, yours for $250 until Sept.1st
After leaking early and then being sold ahead of schedule at Best Buy, Samsung's Galaxy Tab 2 7.0 Student Edition Bundle -- yes, that's really its full moniker -- now has a confirmed street date. Starting tomorrow, $250 the bundle (which includes a 8GB version of the tablet finished in glossy white, a keyboard dock and USB peripheral connector) will be available for purchase until September 1st at Best Buy, Tiger Direct, Fry's Electronics, Amazon, and Costco. Specs-wise this Android 4.0 slate skinned with TouchWiz isn't exactly up to par with the venerable $200 Nexus 7, but it's still a potential step up from B&N's recently discounted Nook Tablets. Beyond that, it also stands out by packing an IR-blaster, microSD card slot and two cameras -- and lest we forget to mention that this particular GTab itself is normally $250. Hit up the press release after the break if your interests are piqued enough to consider hitting the halls with this bundle.Continue reading Galaxy Tab 2 7.0 Student Edition Bundle officially hits stores tomorrow, yours for $250 until Sept.1stFiled under: Tablet PCsGalaxy Tab 2 7.0 Student Edition Bundle officially hits stores tomorrow, yours for $250 until Sept.1st originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 18 Aug 2012 16:04:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Fisker completes investigation of latest Karma hybrid EV fire, issues vehicle-wi...

Posted: 18 Aug 2012 01:28 PM PDT

Fisker completes investigation of latest Karma hybrid EV fire, issues vehicle-wide cooling fan recall


Fisker completes investigation of latest Karma hybrid EV fire, issues vehicle-wide cooling fan recall
Recall Fisker's latest fiery episode last week that left the front left quarter panel of a Karma hybrid EV burnt to a crisp in a Woodside, California parking lot? As promised, the company has completed its investigation with Pacific Rim Investigative Services Group into the scene, reporting that it's "located the ignition source to the left front of the Karma, forward of the wheel, where the low temperature cooling fan is located." As such, Fisker has decided to issue a full-on recall of the unit, although it's currently unclear if this and it affects all Karmas on the road. That said, Fisker is also stressing "that the incident was not caused by the Lithium-ion battery pack, new technology components, engine component packaging or unique exhaust routing of the Fisker Karma" -- naturally, the usual suspects for these types of accidents that keep plaguing the fledgling automaker. At least its new CEO Tony Posawatz is extremely qualified to handle the task at hand -- after all, a few weeks ago he was Volt-maker, GM's, Vehicle Line Director. Hit up the press release after the break for details about the investigation and its findings. Update: When asked about whether the recall affects all Karma models currently on the road, a representative simply (and promptly) replied to us stating, "yes" -- well then.Continue reading Fisker completes investigation of latest Karma hybrid EV fire, issues vehicle-wide cooling fan recallFiled under: TransportationFisker completes investigation of latest Karma hybrid EV fire, issues vehicle-wide cooling fan recall originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 18 Aug 2012 15:28:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

GM, Isuzu recall 258,000 SUVs to fix power windows

Posted: 18 Aug 2012 01:28 PM PDT

GM, Isuzu recall 258,000 SUVs to fix power windows


GM, Isuzu recall 258,000 SUVs to fix power windows
General Motors and Isuzu are recalling more than 258,000 SUVs in the U.S. and Canada to fix short-circuits in power window and door lock switches that can cause fires.

XBMC for Android available in nightly builds for that risky media fix

Posted: 18 Aug 2012 11:23 AM PDT

XBMC for Android available in nightly builds for that risky media fix


XBMC for Android available in nightly builds for that risky media fix
We only just learned in earnest that XBMC was coming to Android last month, and yet we're already looking at workable builds. Kermonine96 at the XDA-Developers forum has started offering his own, unofficial nightly versions of the media center front end, both for regularly supported devices with Neon processor code (most often HTC and Samsung devices) as well as Neon-free hardware, like phones and tablets carrying Tegra 2 chips. Needless to say, the alpha-grade code shouldn't be used as the heart of a mobile media center: hardware decoding isn't functional, battery life is low and even a stable picture isn't guaranteed. That said, anyone who's willing to risk a skip-heavy movie or miss out on plugins now doesn't have to receive the XBMC crew's blessing to get a preview of its Android efforts.Filed under: Cellphones, Home Entertainment, Tablet PCs, SoftwareXBMC for Android available in nightly builds for that risky media fix originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 18 Aug 2012 14:13:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink Redmond Pie | XDA-Developers | Email this | Comments

OnLive's alternative to bankruptcy: just what is an Assignment for the Benefit o...

Posted: 18 Aug 2012 10:14 AM PDT

OnLive's alternative to bankruptcy: just what is an Assignment for the Benefit of Creditors?


OnLive's alternative to bankruptcy: just what is an Assignment for the Benefit of Creditors?
The news is out. OnLive, Inc. is no more, having cut the bulk of its workforce loose and used an Assignment for the Benefit of Creditors (ABC) to absolve itself of massive debts incurred by the expansion of its services without a corresponding increase in its customer base. But what is this alternative to filing for bankruptcy, and why did OnLive choose this particular legal reset button to start over? We spoke with an expert on the matter, Martin Pichinson, co-founder and managing member of Sherwood Partners (which does two or three ABCs in a given week), to help educate us on this little-known tool used by companies irrevocably in the red.Continue reading OnLive's alternative to bankruptcy: just what is an Assignment for the Benefit of Creditors?Filed under: GamingOnLive's alternative to bankruptcy: just what is an Assignment for the Benefit of Creditors? originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 18 Aug 2012 13:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Apple responds to iPhone text message spoofing, reminds us how secure iMessage is

Posted: 18 Aug 2012 10:13 AM PDT

Apple responds to iPhone text message spoofing, reminds us how secure iMessage is


Apple responds to iPhone text message spoofing, reminds us how secure iMessage is
If you're a frequent texter, and the iPhone is your weapon of choice, there's a good chance you've been a wee bit concerned since yesterday's report that the device is vulnerable to a certain SMS spoofing attack. Basically, it's possible for a malicious individual to send a message and specify a reply-to number that is not their own, appearing as if they are someone else. We got in touch with an Apple representative and here's what we were told: Apple takes security very seriously. When using iMessage instead of SMS, addresses are verified which protects against these kinds of spoofing attacks. One of the limitations of SMS is that it allows messages to be sent with spoofed addresses to any phone, so we urge customers to be extremely careful if they're directed to an unknown website or address over SMS. Even if you aren't on an iPhone, we'd like to remind you to be careful when texting. There are numerous services out there that let you send a message that appears to be from anybody you like -- regardless of what model, OS or even carrier the recipient is using. All the more reason to think twice before filing that loan application over SMS.Apple responds to iPhone text message spoofing, reminds us how secure iMessage is originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 18 Aug 2012 11:58:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Apple responds to iPhone text message spoofing, reminds us how secure iMessage is

Posted: 18 Aug 2012 09:36 AM PDT

Apple responds to iPhone text message spoofing, reminds us how secure iMessage is


Apple responds to iPhone text message spoofing, reminds us how secure iMessage is
If you're a frequent texter, and the iPhone is your weapon of choice, there's a good chance you've been a wee bit concerned since yesterday's report that the device is vulnerable to a certain SMS spoofing attack. Basically, it's possible for a malicious individual to send a message and specify a reply-to number that is not their own, appearing as if they are someone else. We got in touch with an Apple representative and here's what we were told: Apple takes security very seriously. When using iMessage instead of SMS, addresses are verified which protects against these kinds of spoofing attacks. One of the limitations of SMS is that it allows messages to be sent with spoofed addresses to any phone, so we urge customers to be extremely careful if they're directed to an unknown website or address over SMS. Even if you aren't on an iPhone, we'd like to remind you to be careful when texting. There are numerous services out there that let you send a message that appears to be from anybody you like -- regardless of what model, OS or even carrier the recipient is using. All the more reason to think twice before filing that loan application over SMS.Apple responds to iPhone text message spoofing, reminds us how secure iMessage is originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 18 Aug 2012 11:58:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

ASUS Transformer Pad TF300 gets Jelly Bean update, TF700 looks at watch impatiently

Posted: 18 Aug 2012 08:54 AM PDT

ASUS Transformer Pad TF300 gets Jelly Bean update, TF700 looks at watch impatiently


ASUS Transformer Pad TF300 gets Jelly Bean update, TF700 looks at watch impatiently
Teasing your customers about forthcoming software updates isn't very nice -- unless you deliver on the very same day, of course. ASUS hinted, just this morning, that Jelly Bean might be on its way to some of its devices via the company's Facebook page. Now, we're getting reports from Transformer Pad TF300 owners that the update has landed. ASUS was even kind enough to beat its own estimate (for the TF300, at least) by a significant measure. Could this mean the TF700 update is on its way? Our advice? Keep mashing that "Check now" just to make sure. [Thanks, James, Godwill]Filed under: Tablet PCsASUS Transformer Pad TF300 gets Jelly Bean update, TF700 looks at watch impatiently originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 18 Aug 2012 11:34:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | ASUS (Facebook) | Email this | Comments

Android Open Source Project targets Sony Xperia S, wants to get experimental

Posted: 18 Aug 2012 08:54 AM PDT

Android Open Source Project targets Sony Xperia S, wants to get experimental


Android Open Source Project targets Sony Xperia S, wants to get experimental
The Android Open Source Project has typically (and understandably) been a very Nexus-focused affair -- until now that is. Technical Lead for the AOSP, Jean-Baptiste Queru, announced this week that for a "new challenge" he'd like to target new hardware -- and Sony's Xperia S is the lucky benefactor. The choice of hardware is said to be due to it being a powerful, current device with an unlockable bootloader, with Queru noting that Sony has always been kind to the project. There's not a lot in the git project right now, but Queru appears keen to rally support from developers to get the ball rolling. Wondering how this might differ from CyanogenMod's device targets? Where CM might have a focus on stability, Queru believes that AOSP will head in a more experimental "bleeding edge" direction. Sound like something you can get behind? Head on over to the source for more info.Filed under: CellphonesAndroid Open Source Project targets Sony Xperia S, wants to get experimental originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 18 Aug 2012 11:16:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink Android Police | Google Groups | Email this | Comments

DSLR gets dollop of Raspberry Pi for future home-baked camera accessories

Posted: 18 Aug 2012 07:43 AM PDT

DSLR gets dollop of Raspberry Pi for future home-baked camera accessories


DSLR gets dollop of Raspberry Pi for future home-baked camera accessories
We love a tasty mélange of gadgets, and that's just what photographer / hacker David Hunt has served up with a Raspberry Pi board inserted into his DSLR's battery grip. He used the handle for power, while exposing the Pi's USB, network and video ports for easy on-camera access, and so far he's managed to transmit images via WiFi and ethernet. But the Raspbian Linux OS opens up a world of potential DIY accessories, like wireless tethered shooting (with the addition of a WiFi dongle), cheap USB instant backup, storage, remote control from anywhere in the world and an intervalometer for timelapse photography. That's just for starters -- with the credit card sized board now in so many hands, the permutations are endless.Filed under: Digital Cameras, Misc. GadgetsDSLR gets dollop of Raspberry Pi for future home-baked camera accessories originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 18 Aug 2012 10:20:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink Hackaday | David Hunt Photography | Email this | Comments

House of the day: Jeffrey Dahmer's former home on the market for $329,000

Posted: 18 Aug 2012 07:03 AM PDT

House of the day: Jeffrey Dahmer's former home on the market for $329,000


House of the day: Jeffrey Dahmer's former home on the market for $329,000
It's also the place where serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer lived and claimed his first victim in 1978.

Toyota Prius V lamely says 'mass matters' with How Stuff Works commercials

Posted: 18 Aug 2012 06:28 AM PDT

Toyota Prius V lamely says 'mass matters' with How Stuff Works commercials


Toyota Prius V lamely says 'mass matters' with How Stuff Works commercials
Filed under: Hybrid, Toyota, Videos Hey there science fans! Want to learn more about the nature of the universe and its elements, and find out what's cool about the new Toyota Prius V hatchback hybrid? Then we've got three science lab commercials for you... In the first episode, "Science on the Go: Mass Matters," Ben Bowlin from How Stuff Works (a Discovery video channel) experiments with his mobile lab, the Prius V. It starts with solid mass, which has a rigid set structure, and then the hybrid gets loaded up with plastic balls - 9,000 of them. But, you just might be asking, happens when we store something that doesn't have fixed volume or shape? That's when we move on to the second episode about liquid mass - this time it's about finding what kinds of liquids can be placed into one cubic foot. So the main point of this commercial is that - surprise! - you can cram more liquids into your Prius V than solids. You can load 18,000 apples in juice form into your Prius V, and you could fill up the car with over 500 gallons of gasoline. Since the Prius V gets 44 mpg in the city, you could drive it 22,000 miles - just shy of being able to drive around the earth. If, you know, oh, forget it - you know. The third episode goes to Ben's favorite element - plasma. Plasma is like gas, but it's ionized, meaning it has free roaming electrons carrying the current and generating the magnetic field. It shows up in flashes of lightning, in fluorescent bulbs and in the sun, which is a "gi-normous" ball of plasma. Bringing this back to planet earth, the question becomes: How many plasma flat screen TVs can you fit into a Prius V? It depends on the different types of televisions you load, of course. You can watch a lot of TV shows, but if you own a Prius V, you'll be too busy driving. Okay, let's see, what can we take away here? U.S. students do lag behind other nations in test scores and gaining solid fundamentals of science and mathematics, but these "Science on the Go" TV spots probably won't help since they lack a couple of things: namely, educational value and marketing merit. Nonetheless, you can watch them below.Continue reading Toyota Prius V lamely says 'mass matters' with How Stuff Works commercialsToyota Prius V lamely says 'mass matters' with How Stuff Works commercials originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Sat, 18 Aug 2012 09:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

MIT 'microthrusters' are the size of a penny, could reposition tiny satellites

Posted: 18 Aug 2012 06:28 AM PDT

MIT 'microthrusters' are the size of a penny, could reposition tiny satellites


MIT 'microthrusters' are the size of a penny, could reposition tiny satellites
Bus-sized satellites require massive engines for even the slightest movements, but as far smaller structures become a possibility, a tiny driving mechanism can offer usable thrust. To serve this next-gen tech, MIT saw a need to develop "microthrusters," which are each the size of a penny and can be mounted to tiny cubed satellites. With thruster components measuring a few microns each, the magnetic levitation system is able to accommodate 500 microscopic tips that emit ion beams in a very small package, serving to push two-pound structures through space. The tiny devices have not made their way into orbit yet, but they have been tested in a vacuum chamber, which simulates the lack of gravity in space. Because of their size, it's possible to add several to each satellite, then enabling sophisticated movements for more precise turns. There are currently two dozen "CubeSats" in orbit, each measuring only slightly larger than a Rubik's cube, but without any thrusters to power them, positioning can't be adjusted once they're released. Because of their current location, CubeSats eventually burn up in the atmosphere, but once they're released farther from Earth, they won't be able to enter the atmosphere on their own, remaining in orbit as "space junk" even after completing their missions -- micro thrusters could also serve to move these satellites closer to the planet so they can burn up during re-entry. There's no word on when, or even if, MIT's invention will make its way to the launchpad, but you can take a closer look in the demo video after the break.Continue reading MIT 'microthrusters' are the size of a penny, could reposition tiny satellitesFiled under: ScienceMIT 'microthrusters' are the size of a penny, could reposition tiny satellites originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 18 Aug 2012 09:06:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | MIT | Email this | Comments

Sky Sports TV app for Android now available, brings live events to the UK and Ir...

Posted: 18 Aug 2012 04:56 AM PDT

Sky Sports TV app for Android now available, brings live events to the UK and Ireland


Sky Sports TV app for Android now available, brings live events to the UK and Ireland
Not to be outdone by The Worldwide Leader in Sports, Sky's just released its own application to keep football enthusiasts entertained while on the go -- at least Premier League fans using Android slabs. Unlike the ESPN app, however, Sky Sports is charging £5 (around $8) per month for its offering, though it will -- with the help of ESPN, no less -- stream over 100 EPL matches live, so you're not limited to only highlights and previews. That being said, Sky Sports TV also lets UK and Ireland folks watch other sporting events, including F1 races, PGA Golf and tennis events like the US Open. The bad news is the app currently doesn't support Jelly Bean-loaded devices, which, for now, will most likely only affect a tiny section of Mountain View's user base -- if that's not you, though, the link to download is down below.Filed under: Cellphones, SoftwareSky Sports TV app for Android now available, brings live events to the UK and Ireland originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 18 Aug 2012 07:25:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Google Play | Email this | Comments

LeapFrog's child-friendly LeapPad 2 goes on sale for $100, is ready for sticky f...

Posted: 18 Aug 2012 03:14 AM PDT

LeapFrog's child-friendly LeapPad 2 goes on sale for $100, is ready for sticky fingers


LeapFrog's child-friendly LeapPad 2 goes on sale for $100, is ready for sticky fingers
You might've already checked out our hands-on time with LeapFrog's next-gen LeapPad, but starting today, now you can finally get your own palms on the kid-friendly slate. The company -- who's also introduced us to the Explorer -- has announced its LeapPad 2 is now up for grabs at an array of online and brick-and-mortar shops, such as Target, Best Buy, Kmart, Amazon and, naturally, its very own site. Now, the $100 LeapPad 2 isn't anywhere near the same class as Mountain View's $200 Nexus 7, though for obvious reasons, as it's targeted at a completely different audience. In other words, those 100 bucks might just be enough to keep kids away from your precious every-day tablet. We'll let you decide that, however.Continue reading LeapFrog's child-friendly LeapPad 2 goes on sale for $100, is ready for sticky fingersFiled under: Tablet PCsLeapFrog's child-friendly LeapPad 2 goes on sale for $100, is ready for sticky fingers originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 18 Aug 2012 05:50:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | LeapFrog | Email this | Comments

CM10 nightly builds now rolling out to select devices

Posted: 18 Aug 2012 01:55 AM PDT

CM10 nightly builds now rolling out to select devices


CM10 nightly builds now rolling out to select devices
Like Jelly Beans, custom Android ROMs tend to have different flavors -- and CyanogenMod happens to be a fan favorite. Good thing then, that the CM10 team is now serving nightly builds of its Jelly Bean-based custom ROM update. According to the CyanogenMod Google+ page, CM10 nightlies are now available for the US Samsung Galaxy S III variants, the original Galaxy S and the Galaxy S II (i9100g), the Galaxy Nexus, the Nexus S and Galaxy Tab 2 7.0 (P3), Galaxy Tab 2 10.1 (P5), Nexus 7, Transformer and Transformer Prime tablets. The list will fill out with more devices when they are ready, the team says, and will continue to have CM9 updates (now weekly, rather then nightly) at their disposal.CM10 nightly builds now rolling out to select devices originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 18 Aug 2012 04:23:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink TalkAndroid | CyanogenMod (Google+) | Email this | Comments

Sony unveils NEX-EA50EH pro camcorder with nary a dog or pony (video)

Posted: 18 Aug 2012 12:48 AM PDT

Sony unveils NEX-EA50EH pro camcorder with nary a dog or pony (video)


Sony unveils NEX-EA50EH pro camcorder with nary a dog or pony (video)
Sony is continuing to build out its NXCAM video camera line with the new interchangeable lens NEX-EA50EH, a surprise entrant that's aimed firmly at the run and gun professional crowd. It sports the same APS-C Exmor CMOS sensor as other cameras in the NEX line, and has notably added a rocker-style zoom lever for its brand new SEL18-200PZ 11x E-mount Servo Zoom Lens. That item is one of the first large sensor servo zooms we've seen, and packs continuous variable isis, auto focus and "Optical Steady Shot" active image stabilization. Another eyebrow-raiser is the model's still photo talent, with the ability to shoot 16MP RAW stills, a mechanical shutter with its own release button and a flash hot-shoe all squeezed in. Video is recorded up to 60fps at 1080P in AVCHD 2.0, presumably at 28 or 17 Mbps, to SD/SDHC/SDXC cards, Sony Memory Sticks or Sony's dedicated external SSD unit, which attaches to the camera. All that is topped off by an onboard shotgun microphone, a shoulder mount form factor and $4,500 price point (which has already changed twice on B&H). That means a lot of pros who want large sensor results -- without all the DSLR foibles -- may be sorely tempted. See the PR and video after the break for all the details.Continue reading Sony unveils NEX-EA50EH pro camcorder with nary a dog or pony (video)Filed under: Digital CamerasSony unveils NEX-EA50EH pro camcorder with nary a dog or pony (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 18 Aug 2012 03:31:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink Sony Alpha Rumors | B&H Blog | Email this | Comments

3D@Home Consortium and International 3D Society combine, don't make 6D

Posted: 18 Aug 2012 12:48 AM PDT

3D@Home Consortium and International 3D Society combine, don't make 6D


3D@Home Consortium and International 3D Society combine, don't make 6D
There are lots of companies behind that 3D content you ogle at the cinema or at home, and all of them are likely to be members of the International 3D Society or the 3D@Home Consortium. Both of these bodies have the same goal -- growing the worldwide 3D industry -- and now they've joined forces to become the creatively named "International 3D Society & 3D@Home." The name might have changed (kind of), but the aim is still to support everyone that has a hand in creating content, software, hardware or deals with the behind-the-scenes logistics to get 3D to your tellybox, school and workplace. They also seek to educate us, the eager consumers, on the magic of three dimensions and to make sure we "feel comfortable" with the cinema sorcery. Is it a good thing for the industry? Certainly, but will it make us don our active 3D spectacles more frequently? Probably not.Continue reading 3D@Home Consortium and International 3D Society combine, don't make 6DFiled under: Displays3D@Home Consortium and International 3D Society combine, don't make 6D originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 18 Aug 2012 02:46:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Steam to debut Big Picture beta soon, make couch potatoes of PC gamers

Posted: 17 Aug 2012 10:29 PM PDT

Steam to debut Big Picture beta soon, make couch potatoes of PC gamers


Steam to debut Big Picture beta soon, make couch potatoes of PC gamers
Early last year, Valve mentioned it was working on something called Big Picture mode for Steam, an alternative user interface with controller support designed specifically for use on televisions. According to Gabe Newell, the distribution services' couch-ready UI is almost upon us. "We should have both Linux and 10-foot betas out there fairly quickly," he told Geoff Keighley in the latest episode of GTTV, noting that the interface would be available on both the current iteration of Steam and the upcoming Linux version. Newell said that Valve has been showing the interface to hardware manufacturers, but ultimately feels that the community will decide its fate. "I think customers will say 'this is really great,' or they'll say it's another interesting but not a valuable contribution, fairly quickly." Check out the interview for yourself (and the full episode) after the break.Continue reading Steam to debut Big Picture beta soon, make couch potatoes of PC gamersFiled under: Gaming, SoftwareSteam to debut Big Picture beta soon, make couch potatoes of PC gamers originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 18 Aug 2012 00:54:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink Joystiq | GameTrailers, Geoff Keighley (Twitter) | Email this | Comments

Top 5 Ford designs

Posted: 17 Aug 2012 09:54 PM PDT

Top 5 Ford designs


Top 5 Ford designs
Henry Ford was a bit of a dour guy and certainly no slave to style or fashion.

Crackle's free movie streaming expands to the Nook Tablet, Android and iOS apps...

Posted: 17 Aug 2012 08:45 PM PDT

Crackle's free movie streaming expands to the Nook Tablet, Android and iOS apps updated for TV playback


Crackle's free movie streaming expands to the Nook Tablet, Android and iOS apps updated for TV playback
It may not have quite the catalog of Netflix (or the same HD quality), but Sony Pictures' Crackle streaming service does have one big thing going for it: it's completely free. It's also found its way onto plenty of different platforms (most recently Windows Phone), and that run has now continued with its expansion onto Barnes & Noble's Nook Tablet (but not the Nook Color). What's more, while there's no release date confirmed just yet, Crackle says that the app is "coming soon" to the Kindle Fire as well. It's also revealed that the app has now seen 11 million downloads across all mobile platforms -- a figure that may now see a boost not only from the new Nook app, but from the just-updated Android and iOS apps, which each boast a redesigned interface and support for TV playback via AirPlay or HDMI.Continue reading Crackle's free movie streaming expands to the Nook Tablet, Android and iOS apps updated for TV playbackFiled under: Home Entertainment, SoftwareCrackle's free movie streaming expands to the Nook Tablet, Android and iOS apps updated for TV playback originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 17 Aug 2012 23:14:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Barnes & Noble, iTunes, Google Play | Email this | Comments

Samsung Galaxy S III on Verizon gets one-click bootloader unlock, freedom is jus...

Posted: 17 Aug 2012 07:59 PM PDT

Samsung Galaxy S III on Verizon gets one-click bootloader unlock, freedom is just a Google Play away


Samsung Galaxy S III on Verizon gets one-click bootloader unlock, freedom is just a Google Play away
We were intrigued to see a bootloader unlock emerge for Verizon's Galaxy S III variant just this week. Unless you're the kind for whom a beta is just too... safe, though, the method on offer to date has been a tad cryptic. Dingus on the RootzWiki forums has taken all the danger out of it through EZ-Unlock, an app that reduces most of the process to a single tap. While it does require existing root access, everything else is sorted out; its most recent forms can also re-lock the bootloader if there's any anxiety about venturing out of bounds. The app is even available through Google Play, which makes unrestricted (if warranty-challenging) firmware just a short hop past the source link.Filed under: CellphonesSamsung Galaxy S III on Verizon gets one-click bootloader unlock, freedom is just a Google Play away originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 17 Aug 2012 21:31:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink RootzWiki, Droid-Life | Google Play | Email this | Comments

Cadillac will debut production ELR at next year's Pebble Beach Concours

Posted: 17 Aug 2012 05:40 PM PDT

Cadillac will debut production ELR at next year's Pebble Beach Concours


Cadillac will debut production ELR at next year's Pebble Beach Concours
Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Hybrid, Cadillac Rumors about the 2014 model-year debut of the confirmed-for-production Cadillac ELR extended-range plug-in hybrid coupe got a little boost today following news out of the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance that a production version of the ELR will be introduced there in 2013. According to Left Lane News, the confirmation came at Pebble Beach from Cadillac marketing VP Don Butler, who also said that next-gen versions of the CTS and Escalade are coming next year. As we already know, the plug-in powertrain in the ELR is an evolution of the one used in the Chevrolet Volt, with a longer electric-only range. After starting sales in North America, the ELR - which was first seen at the 2009 North American Auto Show in Detroit as the Converj concept - will likely go on sale in Europe and China. It should cost less than $57,400.Cadillac will debut production ELR at next year's Pebble Beach Concours originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 17 Aug 2012 19:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

OnLive hits reset after being dragged down by expensive servers, confirms servic...

Posted: 17 Aug 2012 05:40 PM PDT

OnLive hits reset after being dragged down by expensive servers, confirms service will continue


OnLive hits reset after being dragged down by expensive servers, confirms service will continue
OnLive has finally issued an official statement after rumors of mass layoffs first leaked out earlier today, confirming that its assets have been acquired into a newly-formed company with what it claims is "substantial" financial backing. The big news for users is that the OnLive Game and Desktop services will remain operational and continue to be supported. The release also claims a "large percentage" of OnLive staff is being hired into the new company with plans to hire more over time, while PR informs us the leadership team remains intact. Check the words straight from the source after the break, we'll have more information from some of the displaced employees in a few. We've heard from some of the people present for the meeting where the new plan was revealed today, confirming the company is going through a process known as Assignment for the Benefit of Creditors (ABC). A faster alternative to bankruptcy that doesn't involve the courts, it allows OnLive to deal with some of the issues it was facing, most notably an oversupply of servers for the number of users it had signed up. The ABC process allows OnLive to be unshackled from the expensive server contracts and bring in a new source of venture capital. Developing..Continue reading OnLive hits reset after being dragged down by expensive servers, confirms service will continueFiled under: Gaming, InternetOnLive hits reset after being dragged down by expensive servers, confirms service will continue originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 17 Aug 2012 20:06:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Jag Adds AWD, New Engines for 2013

Posted: 17 Aug 2012 05:40 PM PDT

Jag Adds AWD, New Engines for 2013


Jag Adds AWD, New Engines for 2013
The XF and XJ models see powertrain upgrades, new ZF transmissions.

Post-acquisition Motorola files fresh ITC complaint against Apple

Posted: 17 Aug 2012 04:30 PM PDT

Post-acquisition Motorola files fresh ITC complaint against Apple


Post-acquisition Motorola files fresh ITC complaint against Apple
We hope you didn't think that Motorola would fight a purely defensive patent war against Apple after Google's acquisition closed. Just days before a final ruling on its initial complaints, the RAZR maker has filed another dispute with the International Trade Commission that accuses Apple of violating patents through some iOS devices and Macs. Exact details of the dispute are under wraps for now; Motorola, as you'd imagine, only contends that it has no choice after Apple's "unwillingness to work out a license." While Apple hasn't said anything about the subject, we already know how much it disagrees with Motorola's previous licensing strategy -- it's unlikely Apple will just roll over, no matter what's at stake.Filed under: Cellphones, Desktops, LaptopsPost-acquisition Motorola files fresh ITC complaint against Apple originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 17 Aug 2012 19:25:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Bloomberg | Email this | Comments

FCC Fridays: August 17, 2012

Posted: 17 Aug 2012 03:54 PM PDT

FCC Fridays: August 17, 2012


FCC Fridays: August 17, 2012
We here at Engadget tend to spend a lot of way too much time poring over the latest FCC filings, be it on the net or directly on the ol' Federal Communications Commission's site. Since we couldn't possibly (want to) cover all the stuff that goes down there individually, we've gathered up an exhaustive listing of every phone and / or tablet getting the stamp of approval over the last week. Enjoy!Continue reading FCC Fridays: August 17, 2012Filed under: Cellphones, Tablet PCsFCC Fridays: August 17, 2012 originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 17 Aug 2012 18:52:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Confused about the C-Max Energi abilities? Ask the chief engineer

Posted: 17 Aug 2012 03:20 PM PDT

Confused about the C-Max Energi abilities? Ask the chief engineer


Confused about the C-Max Energi abilities? Ask the chief engineer
Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Hybrid, MPGTo get an accurate reading of how a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle performs in battery-only mode and in overall extended range, two experiences are useful: lots of behind-the-wheel driving time under various driving conditions (altitude, climate temperature, average speed driven, stop-start, etc.) or a detailed conversation with the chief engineer who designed the car. Brad Berman, editor of PluginCars.com and HybridCars.com, got a bit of both. He had a conversation with John Davis, Ford's chief engineer for the C-Max in North America, that clarified how the upcoming C-Max Energi differs from the Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid in battery only and extended range modes. Berman issued a mea culpa after having criticized Ford for seemingly hyping up the superior capabilities of the C-Max Energi. "I learned that the C-Max Energi is indeed substantially more capable of driving purely as an EV than the Prius Plug-in," Berman writes. Berman drove the Prius Plug-in Hybrid during a three-day loan and found it could go about 11 miles on all-electric driving, which matches the official EPA estimate, versus Ford's claim that the real number is six miles of battery only range. The distinction that Berman was able to clarify in talking to Davis is how to determine the vehicle's true "keep this thing in all-electric mode." Ford's "EV Now" button in the C-Max Energi allows the driver to access the battery-only driving experience better compared to the Prius Plug-in Hybrid's "relatively wimpy all-electric experience." The "EV Now" feature makes the C-Max Energi much more like a Chevy Volt, Berman says. C-Max Energi drivers also have the option of using its "EV Later" button, which is similar to the Volt's Mountain Mode, to save battery power for later use, or they can keep the plug-in in "EV Auto" mode, in which the car operates more like the conventional C-Max hybrid.Confused about the C-Max Energi abilities? Ask the chief engineer originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 17 Aug 2012 18:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Source: OnLive undergoing buyout in wake of dire financials, laying off 'at leas...

Posted: 17 Aug 2012 03:20 PM PDT

Source: OnLive undergoing buyout in wake of dire financials, laying off 'at least 50 percent' of staff


Source: OnLive undergoing buyout in wake of dire financials, laying off 'at least 50 percent' of staff
After a lot of back and forth from the rumor mill and official OnLive channels, we now have what we believe to be a far clearer view of precisely what is happening right now at OnLive headquarters in Palo Alto. We've spoken with a (now former) employee of the gaming service who ran down today's events for us. According to the account, a meeting was held at OnLive's offices at 10AM this morning, wherein the company's CEO announced a massive staff layoff -- at least 50 percent of the staff, according to our source's numbers. The layoffs come as part of across the board cuts to the company, and all those out of a job will have their key cards deactivated as of 4PM local time today. The source was understandably baffled by the abruptness of the news, along with the added blow that no severance will be offered and stock holdings are essentially worth nothing. The move apparently comes as OnLive is being purchased by an unknown party. Those being kept on have reportedly received offer letters from the new company. Why the sudden move? The source believes it may have something to do with the company's massive operating costs, which we're told are around $5 million a month. Certainly those concerns line up with a story dug up by Kotaku highlighting the company's plans to file for Assignment for the Benefit of Creditors as a result of the company's troubled financial situation. We're still gathering information as to the nature of the buyout. We've been promised more information on this topic soon -- naturally we'll be bringing it to you as soon as we get it.Source: OnLive undergoing buyout in wake of dire financials, laying off 'at least 50 percent' of staff originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 17 Aug 2012 17:47:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments