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Monday, August 20, 2012

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NASA InSight tapped for Mars drilling mission in 2016

Posted: 20 Aug 2012 02:49 PM PDT

NASA InSight tapped for Mars drilling mission in 2016


NASA InSight tapped for Mars drilling mission in 2016
The surface of Mars? Psh... been there. With the Curiosity stage well under way, our exploration of the Red Planet is about to take a dive beneath the dust. Interior Exploration using Seismic Investigations, Geodesy and Heat Transport -- InSight, for short -- was just confirmed as a new NASA mission, with the space agency set to launch in March of 2016. Based on the Phoenix lander, the craft is tasked with giving us a peek beneath the planet's surface, armed with tools that include a geodetic instrument from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, which will be used to calculate Mars' rotation axis, a seismic wave sensor and a subsurface heat probe, to measure the planet's internal temperature. The program has a $425 million budget -- a bit shy of the $2.5 billion allocated for Curiosity -- not including the costly launch vehicle. NASA Administrator Charles Bolden said that InSight will help pave the way for future human missions to Mars, and represents just one of the related projects to come. Hit up the source link below for a closer look at JPL's latest endeavor.Filed under: ScienceNASA InSight tapped for Mars drilling mission in 2016 originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Aug 2012 17:45:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Jet Propulsion Laboratory | Email this | Comments

Motorola Xyboard WiFi, Verizon 4G models get Android 4.0 updates

Posted: 20 Aug 2012 02:49 PM PDT

Motorola Xyboard WiFi, Verizon 4G models get Android 4.0 updates


Motorola Xyboard WiFi, Verizon 4G models get Android 4.0 updates
If you've embraced Motorola's vision of tablets warmly enough to have picked up a Xyboard 8.2 or 10.1, your loyalty is being rewarded. Both the WiFi versions and Verizon's Droid Xyboard variants should be receiving their Android 4.0 updates starting now, with everyone onboard over the course of the weeks ahead. Don't anticipate a Droid RAZR-style visual revamp: much like Google's regular jump from Android 3.2 to 4.0, the changes involve subtler components like the improved built-in browser and Face Unlock. The release is no Jelly Bean update, but we'd still call it a big step forward for fans of sharply-angled slabs.Filed under: Tablet PCsMotorola Xyboard WiFi, Verizon 4G models get Android 4.0 updates originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Aug 2012 17:39:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink Phonedog, Android Central | Motorola (1), (2), Verizon | Email this | Comments

Rumored Samsung Galaxy S II Plus resurfaces: adds purported specs and pictures

Posted: 20 Aug 2012 02:49 PM PDT

Rumored Samsung Galaxy S II Plus resurfaces: adds purported specs and pictures


Rumored Samsung Galaxy S II Plus resurfaces: adds purported specs and pictures
It's been a long, long time since we first saw the unannounced Galaxy S II Plus show up in some leaked benchmarks. Today, however, Sammy's souped-up flavor of that famed S2 is making the rounds on the interwebs once more, and better yet, we've got an idea of what it could look like physically come its official revelation. According to Chilean carrier VTR, Samsung's Galaxy S II Plus will be sporting a 4.5-inch AMOLED display, which is said to be paired alongside a dual-core, 1.5GHz Exynos CPU, 1GB of RAM, 16GB of built-in storage and an 8-megapixel rear camera -- notably, the site's also listing it as an Ice Cream Sandwich device, making it slightly different than what we'd seen previously in earlier benchmark scores. Either way, all signs point toward the Korean outfit being close to legitimately introducing its S II Plus sooner rather than later; while we wait for that to happen, though, the angled shots after the break will have to suffice.Continue reading Rumored Samsung Galaxy S II Plus resurfaces: adds purported specs and picturesFiled under: CellphonesRumored Samsung Galaxy S II Plus resurfaces: adds purported specs and pictures originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Aug 2012 17:14:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink SamMobile | VTR | Email this | Comments

In Desperate, Successful Ploy For Coverage, ShoutOut Radio Turns TechCrunch Agai...

Posted: 20 Aug 2012 02:15 PM PDT

In Desperate, Successful Ploy For Coverage, ShoutOut Radio Turns TechCrunch Against Itself


In Desperate, Successful Ploy For Coverage, ShoutOut Radio Turns TechCrunch Against Itself
Oh, this is shameless. Productivity at TechCrunch offices around the world have taken a blow over the past couple of hours, thanks to the Great TechCrunch Race, a website where TechCrunch staffers (or rather, uh, farm animals that share our names) race each other across the screen. It turns out that watching a turtle with my name on it going head-to-head with chickens, horses, and pigs named after my bosses and coworkers is weirdly addictive. (While on the Caltrain, I only barely restrained myself from shouting, "Die, Rip Empson, die!")

Adobe begins regular updates to Creative Cloud applications, details future impr...

Posted: 20 Aug 2012 02:15 PM PDT

Adobe begins regular updates to Creative Cloud applications, details future improvements for Creative Suite


Adobe begins regular updates to Creative Cloud applications, details future improvements for Creative Suite
Adobe's subscription-based software service is three months old and the outfit is rolling out the first of its regular updates to the Creative Cloud set of applications. Alongside a new preview of Adobe Edge, added features to Adobe Muse highlight this round of improvements -- set to go live for members at 12:01 AM EDT tonight. The app that allows users to create websites without writing a line of code now includes custom contact forms, links to downloadable files (PDFs and such) and the option of using HTML5 animations from Edge and other programs. Other tweaks range from align / distribute and ruler guides that you've grown accustom to using on the fly in Creative Suite to a few FTP and publishing enhancements. Also included in the news is that the company plans to roll out select new features to the regular ol' Creative Suite offerings ahead of the annual release schedule to Creative Cloud subscribers. Some of the newfangled features that will arrive in CS7 will arrive early for those who opt for the membership route as each product team sees fit. For example, a file-packaging feature for Illustrator that was previewed recently is on its way soon. In order to get the entire truckload of new tech that the aforementioned release stands to haul, though, you'll have to wait until the entire lot hits in properly licensed form. Sound like the kind of early access you'd enjoy? Well, those looking to switch from the normal CS license model (CS3 and later) can join the Cloud for $29.99 per month for the first year instead of the usual $49.99 until August 31st.Continue reading Adobe begins regular updates to Creative Cloud applications, details future improvements for Creative SuiteFiled under: SoftwareAdobe begins regular updates to Creative Cloud applications, details future improvements for Creative Suite originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Aug 2012 16:52:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Creative Cloud | Email this | Comments

Football fans score additional content in Sky Sports for iPad update

Posted: 20 Aug 2012 02:15 PM PDT

Football fans score additional content in Sky Sports for iPad update


Football fans score additional content in Sky Sports for iPad update
The app devs over at Sky Sports are having a busy year, and after improving their iPad offering for the F1 season, they're back with a "second screen" update for football (soccer) fans. Just in time for the start of the UK Premier League season, the new Football Match Centre adds a content bar alongside your chosen stream showing team and player info, in-depth stats of the match in progress and a hand-picked Twitter feed for related musings. You might think the devs deserve a break, but sadly there's no time -- next on the agenda is a similar update for the Champions League tournament, then they're bringing the second screen to golf fans before the Ryder Cup starts next month.Continue reading Football fans score additional content in Sky Sports for iPad updateFiled under: SoftwareFootball fans score additional content in Sky Sports for iPad update originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Aug 2012 16:29:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | iTunes | Email this | Comments

Engadget Primed: The crazy science of GPU compute

Posted: 20 Aug 2012 02:15 PM PDT

Engadget Primed: The crazy science of GPU compute


Engadget Primed: The crazy science of GPU compute
Primed goes in-depth on the technobabble you hear on Engadget every day -- we dig deep into each topic's history and how it benefits our lives. You can follow the series here. Looking to suggest a piece of technology for us to break down? Drop us a line at primed *at* engadget *dawt* com. As you're hopefully aware, this is a gadget blog. As a result, we're innately biased towards stuff that's new and preferably fandangled. More cores, more pixels, more lenses; just give it here and make us happy. The risk of this type of technological greed is that we don't make full use of what we already have, and nothing illustrates that better than the Graphics Processing Unit. Whether it sits in our desktops, laptops, tablets or phones, the GPU is cruelly limited by its history -- its long-established reputation as a dumb, muscular component that takes instructions from the main processor and translates them into pixels for us to gawp at. But what if the GPUs in our devices had some buried genius -- abilities that, if only we could tap into them, would yield hyper-realistic experiences and better all-round performance from affordable hardware? Well, the thing is, this hidden potential actually exists. We've been covering it since at least 2008 and, even though it still hasn't generated enough fuss to become truly famous, the semiconductor industry is making more noise about it now than ever before. So please, join us after the break as we endeavor to explain why the trend known as "GPU compute," aka "general purpose GPU (GPGPU)," or simply "not patronizing your graphics processor," is still exciting despite having let us down in the past. We'll try to show why it's worth learning a few related concepts and terms to help provide a glossary for future coverage; and why, on the whole, your graphics chip is less Hasselhoff and more Hoffman than you may have imagined.Continue reading Engadget Primed: The crazy science of GPU computeFiled under: Cellphones, Desktops, Tablet PCsEngadget Primed: The crazy science of GPU compute originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Aug 2012 16:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

McDonald's, PayPal join forces for mobile payment test

Posted: 20 Aug 2012 01:43 PM PDT

McDonald's, PayPal join forces for mobile payment test


McDonald's, PayPal join forces for mobile payment test
You may soon be able to buy burgers and fries on your smartphone.

BMW introduces DriveNow carsharing, ParkNow service to San Francisco

Posted: 20 Aug 2012 01:03 PM PDT

BMW introduces DriveNow carsharing, ParkNow service to San Francisco


BMW introduces DriveNow carsharing, ParkNow service to San Francisco
Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Transportation Alternatives, BMW A little over a year ago, BMW announced its DriveNow partnership with Sixt. That car-sharing service - which is active in three cities in Germany: Berlin, Munich and Dusseldorf - made its U.S. debut in San Francisco in June. Today, BMW gave more details on the San Francisco service and announced the upcoming launch of ParkNow.DriveNow is a short-term rental scheme that is awfully similar to Daimler's Car2go program. Using your smartphone or a computer, you can locate a nearby available car and then rent it for 29 cents a minute. When you're done, you can park it anywhere within the defined business area and call it good. At least, that's how it works in Europe. In San Francisco, you pay $12 for the first 30 minutes, then 32 cents for each minute. Oh, and you need to return the car to a DriveNow location (there are currently eight) when finished. DriveNow in San Francisco uses 70 all-electric ActiveE vehicles, whereas other cities use some Mini models as well. ParkNow is a service that will help you find open parking spaces. This is important because BMW says there are "an estimated 505,000 vehicles in San Francisco, yet only 448,000 parking spaces available at any given time." With ParkNow, you can shorten your rental time by reserving a parking space ahead of time. You can find a spot, reserve it and prepay through your cell phone or the web. When using the mobile app, you can also get directions to "your" spot. There are currently 14 locations in San Francisco beta testing ParkNow and 100 more will be added in the next few weeks. ParkNow, a part of BMW i, is a joint venture between BMW and Urban Mobility and will officially start up in September. BMW said that both DriveNow and ParkNow will be coming to other cities in the future.Continue reading BMW introduces DriveNow carsharing, ParkNow service to San FranciscoBMW introduces DriveNow carsharing, ParkNow service to San Francisco originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 20 Aug 2012 15:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

The Zaphat Can Turn You Into A Zombie…Sorta

Posted: 20 Aug 2012 01:03 PM PDT

The Zaphat Can Turn You Into A Zombie…Sorta


The Zaphat Can Turn You Into A Zombie…Sorta
Here's an interesting approach to Augmented Reality marketing: turn hats into Zombie heads. The Zaphat (pronounced like Zap Hat, not Zafat) is a new line of fashion apparel where the logo on the accouterment acts as the target for an iOS/Android app that uses Augmented Reality to transform the wearer into an avatar of their choice. In other words, when you wear a special hat, people can look at you with an app and see a Zombie instead of your head and then take a picture of you.

Olympus confirms new high-end Four Thirds DSLR 'currently under study' following...

Posted: 20 Aug 2012 01:03 PM PDT

Olympus confirms new high-end Four Thirds DSLR 'currently under study' following vague Facebook post


Olympus confirms new high-end Four Thirds DSLR 'currently under study' following vague Facebook post
Visitors to Olympus' UK Facebook page were met with some "BREAKING NEWS!!" on Friday. According to the post, the camera maker is developing a new DSLR that would theoretically offer focusing performance on par with the OM-D, while providing native compatibility with the company's high-end Zuiko Digital ED lenses, such as the 90-250mm f/2.8. We reached out to Olympus reps in the US, who added the following: "A new camera body is currently under study to complement our line of Zuiko Digital Specific Four Thirds lenses. However, Olympus has NOT issued a press release on this new camera body." With Photokina just a month away, it's unclear whether or not this new mystery DSLR will make its debut there, but it's certainly a possibility. As for looks -- that's anyone's guess, though the company's social media arm opted to include a picture of the E-5, which serves as Olympus' current full-size flagship. You'll find the full Facebook post at the source link below.Filed under: Digital CamerasOlympus confirms new high-end Four Thirds DSLR 'currently under study' following vague Facebook post originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Aug 2012 15:46:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink Imaging Resource | Olympus UK (Facebook) | Email this | Comments

IBM alliance sets efficiency record for solar power cells using common materials

Posted: 20 Aug 2012 01:03 PM PDT

IBM alliance sets efficiency record for solar power cells using common materials


IBM alliance sets efficiency record for solar power cells using common materials
There have been more than a few solar power efficiency records set in the past few months, let alone years. What makes IBM, DelSolar, Solar Frontier and Tokyo Ohka Kogyo think they can just waltz in and claim a record of their own? By using more commonplace elements in the periodic table, that's how. The partnership's new photovoltaic cell based on copper, zinc and tin (CZTS for short) can convert light rays to electric power with a 11.1 percent efficiency rate -- still nothing to upset traditional silicon power, but a large 10 percent more efficient than anything else in the class. In its early form, CZTS can already be manufactured through ink printing and could be produced in quantities equivalent to about 500 gigawatts of power per year, or five times more than some of the next-closest alternatives. The group wants to improve CZTS' efficiency over the course of the next several years, ideally reaching the point where it's useful as a truly cheap, ubiquitous source of power. We're looking forward to the day when there's a little slice of solar energy in just about everything, hopefully including a few more hybrid cars and private aircraft.Filed under: ScienceIBM alliance sets efficiency record for solar power cells using common materials originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Aug 2012 15:27:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink MIT Technology Review | IBM Research | Email this | Comments

Y Combinator-Backed Mth Sense Aims To Improve Mobile Ad Targeting Based On Your...

Posted: 20 Aug 2012 01:03 PM PDT

Y Combinator-Backed Mth Sense Aims To Improve Mobile Ad Targeting Based On Your App History


Y Combinator-Backed Mth Sense Aims To Improve Mobile Ad Targeting Based On Your App History
As mobile publishers and advertisers struggle to know more about the users who are seeing their ads, a Y Combinator-backed startup called Mth Sense is offering a new approach to the problem — it looks at consumers' app usage data to create a profile of their demographics and interests. This is an area that's attracting investor dollars. Perhaps most notably, both Sequoia Capital and Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers invested in a startup called Drawbridge, which connects user data on mobile and desktop devices. So what's Mth Sense doing differently? CEO and co-founder Mandar Agte says there are existing solutions to target mobile ads based on the app you're using when the ad is served, but that provides a pretty limited view of the user.

Editorial: Cutting the cable cord is a young trend going in the right direction

Posted: 20 Aug 2012 01:03 PM PDT

Editorial: Cutting the cable cord is a young trend going in the right direction


Editorial: Cutting the cable cord is a young trend going in the right direction
This week I bought a Roku. Late to the party? Yes, but not as late as you might suppose. Roku has sold about 2.5 million streaming media boxes since the product launched in 2008. Approximately 1.5 million of those units moved in 2011, indicating an acceleration of demand. Coincidentally, those numbers roughly represent the cord-cutting movement: Reportedly, 2.65 million cable subscribers ditched their service between 2008 and 2011, with about 1.5 million of those defections happening in 2011. While cable cord-cutting is a trend, the movement is occurring in the context of customer inertia. About 100 million customers subscribe to cable, satellite, and other pay-TV providers (e.g. AT&T's U-Verse). The problematic value proposition of cutting the cord will probably keep massive inaction in place for the short term, but cannot, I believe, withstand long-term marketplace demands.Continue reading Editorial: Cutting the cable cord is a young trend going in the right directionFiled under: Home EntertainmentEditorial: Cutting the cable cord is a young trend going in the right direction originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Aug 2012 15:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Warner quietly extends the expiration dates of digital copies, discs remain orna...

Posted: 20 Aug 2012 11:53 AM PDT

Warner quietly extends the expiration dates of digital copies, discs remain ornamental


Warner quietly extends the expiration dates of digital copies, discs remain ornamental
Missed out on claiming digital copies of video included with your discs because the expiration dates have passed? Well, Warner Bros. wants to make such frustrations a mere memory, as Tech of the Hub has found it's silently updated the use-by dates of a significant portion of its catalogue. By browsing the WB digital copy support page, it's evident most titles are now available until May 17th 2017, although we did find several exceptions. Some may discover that despite the extension their original codes won't work, but Gabe at Tech of the Hub was swiftly provided with fresh and functional ones when he notified WB, so we assume you'll get the same treatment. With streaming support now available for many of these digital copies through iCloud and expiration dates a thing of the far future, there's never been a better time to pack those shelves with limited editions and classic re-releases.Filed under: Home EntertainmentWarner quietly extends the expiration dates of digital copies, discs remain ornamental originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Aug 2012 14:39:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Tech of the Hub, WB Digital Copy | Email this | Comments

Honda's new 'Earth Dreams' drivetrains go into production

Posted: 20 Aug 2012 11:18 AM PDT

Honda's new 'Earth Dreams' drivetrains go into production


Honda's new 'Earth Dreams' drivetrains go into production
Filed under: Manufacturing/Plants, MPG, Honda Production of the "Earth Dreams" powertrains that will slot into the 2013 Honda Accord has begun at the Japanese automaker's Anna Engine and Honda Transmission Mfg. plants, both of which will supply the Ohio assembly lines where the Accord is built. As one would expect with car as important to Honda as the ninth-generation Accord, the company has made a huge investment in the North American debut of its new direct-injected, 2.4-liter four-cylinder, a new CVT transmission, and a 3.5-liter V6 and its optional six-speed automatic. Honda has spent $220 million on expansions, casting operations and automated lines for its associates, and the plant is now able to make 1.8 million Earth Dreams engines annually. The new engines are said to be good for a 10-percent improvement in fuel economy compared to current offerings, and the powerplants will eventually migrate to other models in Honda's lineup. Check out the press release below for more information.Continue reading Honda's new 'Earth Dreams' drivetrains go into productionHonda's new 'Earth Dreams' drivetrains go into production originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 20 Aug 2012 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Toshiba Satellite U845 review: an inexpensive Ultrabook worth considering

Posted: 20 Aug 2012 11:18 AM PDT

Toshiba Satellite U845 review: an inexpensive Ultrabook worth considering


Toshiba Satellite U845 review: an inexpensive Ultrabook worth considering
More Info Toshiba shows off 14-inch Ultrabook, we go hands-on Toshiba intros 14-inch Satellite U845 Ultrabook Toshiba Satellite U845W review Toshiba's most recent Ultrabook offerings have something of a split personality. On the one hand, there's the Satellite U845W, a high-end machine with solid quality and a funky, 21:9 display. Announced alongside it, though, was the Satellite U845, a more modest sort of machine for folks who can't afford to spend $1,000 on their next laptop. Starting at $750, it offers all the specs you'd expect from a mid-range laptop: Ivy Bridge, Intel Wireless Display and a backlit keyboard. And, given that it's a slightly larger Ultrabook, it also makes room for key ports like HDMI and an Ethernet jack. But the U845 is hardly the only 14-inch thin-and-light on the block, and it's definitely not the only sub-$800 system aimed at the back-to-school crowd. Read on to see if there's enough pizazz here to make this a memorable machine.Gallery: Toshiba Satellite U845 reviewContinue reading Toshiba Satellite U845 review: an inexpensive Ultrabook worth consideringFiled under: LaptopsToshiba Satellite U845 review: an inexpensive Ultrabook worth considering originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Aug 2012 14:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

2013 Dodge Dart: First Drive

Posted: 20 Aug 2012 11:18 AM PDT

2013 Dodge Dart: First Drive


2013 Dodge Dart: First Drive
Dodge finally delivers a refined compact sedan.

1928 Mercedes Wins Best of Show

Posted: 20 Aug 2012 11:18 AM PDT

1928 Mercedes Wins Best of Show


1928 Mercedes Wins Best of Show
Mercedes 680S Saoutchik takes top honors at Pebble Beach.

Curiosity landing video assembled from high-res images (video)

Posted: 20 Aug 2012 10:46 AM PDT

Curiosity landing video assembled from high-res images (video)


Curiosity landing video assembled from high-res images (video)
A new video has been compiled by Spaceflight101.com showing Curiosity's final minutes of terror in glorious HD (though a dearth of frames and lack of stabilization make it a bit herky-jerky). It's an assembly of all the high-res photos taken by the buggy on the way down to its now familiar perch, rolling at the not-exactly-HFR speed of 4 fps, but still trumping a previous low-res thumbnail version. It gives a much clearer, rover's-eye-view of the journey, starting with the heat shield ejection and finishing with the dusty, butterfly-like touchdown. Check it out below the break to see the precarious descent -- and don't forget your Dramamine.Continue reading Curiosity landing video assembled from high-res images (video)Filed under: ScienceCuriosity landing video assembled from high-res images (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Aug 2012 13:40:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink Gizmodo | Spaceflight101 (YouTube) | Email this | Comments

BBC not bringing iPlayer or live streaming to Windows Phone 8, blames Microsoft

Posted: 20 Aug 2012 10:46 AM PDT

BBC not bringing iPlayer or live streaming to Windows Phone 8, blames Microsoft


BBC not bringing iPlayer or live streaming to Windows Phone 8, blames Microsoft
Microsoft is getting brickbats from developers unenthused by its forthcoming operating system(s), and the BBC is the latest to join the chorus. When asked about bringing iPlayer to Windows Phone, the corporation's on-demand honcho, Daniel Danker, responded by saying it's not cost-or-time effective for the system -- thanks to a lack of support for HTTP Live Streaming. Mr. Danker confirmed to us that HLS is not the proprietary format it's believed to be, used on a wide variety of devices including Smart TVs and consoles -- but is not included in Redmond's mobile OS. Live streaming is also impossible thanks to a "bug" in the software that can't secure the session, breaking the corporation's copy protection system which only affects mobile devices. Redmond's known of the problem for some time, and is working on a solution, but has yet to make any official announcement otherwise. He's optimistic that a solution might arrive, perhaps on October 26th, but until then, BBC iPlayer won't be arriving on your Windows-powered handset. After the break we've included the full text of the email if you'd like to hear it from the source.Continue reading BBC not bringing iPlayer or live streaming to Windows Phone 8, blames MicrosoftFiled under: Cellphones, Home EntertainmentBBC not bringing iPlayer or live streaming to Windows Phone 8, blames Microsoft originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Aug 2012 13:19:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink WMPowerUser, WP Central | | Email this | Comments

Ahead Of Droid Razr HD Launch, Verizon Slashes Prices Of Motorola’s Droid Smartp...

Posted: 20 Aug 2012 10:46 AM PDT

Ahead Of Droid Razr HD Launch, Verizon Slashes Prices Of Motorola's Droid Smartphones


Ahead Of Droid Razr HD Launch, Verizon Slashes Prices Of Motorola's Droid Smartphones
Motorola has a big push coming. We have an invite for September 5 to a some secret event, and even more evidence of a Droid Razr HD has hit the web, confirming that Google's mobile hardware team is ready to go toe-to-toe with the Samsung Galaxy S III in a couple of weeks. And just as the iPhone price gets slashed before the next-gen model hits the market, so shall Verizon cut the prices of all of its Motorola "Droid" branded handsets, including the Droid Razr, Droid Razr Maxx, and Droid 4. Currently, the Razr Maxx is listed for $199 on Verizon's website, while the Razr and the Droid 4 are going for $99.

Ben Heck creates hands-free wheelchair attachment for expectant father

Posted: 20 Aug 2012 10:46 AM PDT

Ben Heck creates hands-free wheelchair attachment for expectant father


Ben Heck creates hands-free wheelchair attachment for expectant father
Ben Heck may have cut his teeth on hacked gaming consoles, but these days, the modder-turned-show-host has turned a good deal of his focus to projects aimed at improving accessibility and mobility for the disabled. The latest episode of the Ben Heck Show offers up the perfect example of this noble pursuit, built when an expectant father came to him requesting a wheelchair that could be controlled while caring for his newborn. Heck designed a motor assembly add-on for Josh Benhart's chair with a foot-controlled joystick that lives under a 3D printed dome. Given a short amount of lead, Heck, sadly, wasn't able to complete the project in time, though you can check out his progress in the video embedded after the break.Continue reading Ben Heck creates hands-free wheelchair attachment for expectant fatherFiled under: Misc. GadgetsBen Heck creates hands-free wheelchair attachment for expectant father originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Aug 2012 13:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Sony sells 2.2 million PS Vitas worldwide, will redirect marketing toward 'young...

Posted: 20 Aug 2012 10:46 AM PDT

Sony sells 2.2 million PS Vitas worldwide, will redirect marketing toward 'younger audience'


Sony sells 2.2 million PS Vitas worldwide, will redirect marketing toward 'younger audience'
Sony confirmed to us that it sold 2.2 million PlayStation Vitas worldwide as of June 30th, roughly 250,000 a month since it passed the 1.2 million mark back in February. In an interview with PlayFront, German boss Uve Bassendowski blamed the slow sales on the company ignoring young customers to court a more grown-up demographic -- but would redress that balance soon. Compared to the 3DS at the same point in its life, it had sold over three million units worldwide even before Nintendo scythed $80 from the ticket -- the sort of cut that Sony has ruled out for this yearFiled under: GamingSony sells 2.2 million PS Vitas worldwide, will redirect marketing toward 'younger audience' originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Aug 2012 12:37:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | PlayFront (Translated) | Email this | Comments

China's dragon takes on wine

Posted: 20 Aug 2012 10:45 AM PDT

China's dragon takes on wine


China's dragon takes on wine
Is China threatening to take on the wine industry? That almost makes me chuckle. But it's true, says one wine expert.

Infiniti sets 2014 due date for all-electric LE with wireless charging

Posted: 20 Aug 2012 09:35 AM PDT

Infiniti sets 2014 due date for all-electric LE with wireless charging


Infiniti sets 2014 due date for all-electric LE with wireless charging
Filed under: EV/Plug-in, InfinitiInfiniti has re-confirmed it will sell the production version of the LE, and it has now given us a year: 2014. This makes it likely that Nissan's upscale arm will be the first OEM to sell a production inductive charging vehicle.USAToday reports that Infiniti officials made the announcement in California alongside the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance this past weekend. The high-end event is a good place to discuss launching a beefier, prettier luxury cousin to the Nissan Leaf, especially one that could have the cachet of being able to offer completely hassle-free electric miles (one you install the pads in your garage, of course). Infiniti's Ben Poore told USAToday that, "It's a new technology. We're being a little bit bold on this." The LE - which stands for Luxury, Electric - also allows standard, wired charging. While we don't know what the specs will be for the production version, the LE Concept has a Leaf-like 24kWh lithium-ion battery pack and a 100-kw electric motor that offers 134 horsepower and 240 pound-feet of torque. That's 24 hp and 30 lb-ft more than the Leaf. The LE will be most likely be built at Nissan's factory in Smyrna, TN, the one that will start making the Leaf later this year. The race is on to bring wireless charging to the masses, with companies like Mitsubishi and Audi working privately and the U.S. government dabbling as well.Infiniti sets 2014 due date for all-electric LE with wireless charging originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 20 Aug 2012 12:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Engadget's back to school guide 2012: portable audio

Posted: 20 Aug 2012 09:34 AM PDT

Engadget's back to school guide 2012: portable audio


Engadget's back to school guide 2012: portable audio
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 taking our audio with us -- and 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 month we'll be giving away a ton of the gear featured in our guides -- and hit up the hub page right here! With all of the studying and on-campus traveling you're about to delve into, sometimes adding a bit of music to your step can spice up those mundane times in your daily routine. That's why we've rounded up a selection of portable speakers and headphones that'll not only help you rock out whenever the mood strikes, but also go a step further by letting you take phone calls without skipping a beat. It may not be audiophile-grade gear in the official sense, but it won't matter when you're enjoying good sound just about anywhere your smartphone-connected life takes you. Continue reading Engadget's back to school guide 2012: portable audioFiled under: WearablesEngadget's back to school guide 2012: portable audio originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Aug 2012 12:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

StatCounter: Windows Phone Will Blow Past BlackBerry By November 2012

Posted: 20 Aug 2012 09:34 AM PDT

StatCounter: Windows Phone Will Blow Past BlackBerry By November 2012


StatCounter: Windows Phone Will Blow Past BlackBerry By November 2012
At least three major research firms believe that Windows Phone will overtake iOS by 2015, but peering that far into the mobile ecosystem's future is damn near impossible. We can, however, get an idea of what will be happening in the next few months, and StatCounter predicts that Windows Phone will overtake BlackBerry very soon. According to WMPowerUser, Microsoft's mobile platform will surpass BlackBerry in the United States by November of this year. However, that has very little to do with Windows Phone's success, and far more to do with BlackBerry's almost impressive failure.

Green Day make cameo in Angry Birds Facebook offering as mascara-wearing egg thi...

Posted: 20 Aug 2012 09:34 AM PDT

Green Day make cameo in Angry Birds Facebook offering as mascara-wearing egg thieves


Green Day make cameo in Angry Birds Facebook offering as mascara-wearing egg thieves
Punk's not dead, it's just diversifying its portfolio. Having already conquered Broadway, East Bay pop-punkers Green Day are hitting the world of casual gaming with a new episode of Facebook's Angry Birds Friends that features pig opponents "inspired by band members Billie Joe Armstrong, Mike Dirnt, and Tre Cool." The offering also features "Troublemaker," an exclusive song that is most likely a tribute to the hard living ways of porcine egg thieves. Asked to justify his pro-swine stance, Pinhead Gunpowder member Armstrong answered, "We're all fans of Angry Birds. It's such an addictive game that when we first started playing it we couldn't stop. Go Team Green!"Continue reading Green Day make cameo in Angry Birds Facebook offering as mascara-wearing egg thievesFiled under: Gaming, InternetGreen Day make cameo in Angry Birds Facebook offering as mascara-wearing egg thieves originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Aug 2012 11:32:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Curiosity rover warms up its laser with basaltic rock blast

Posted: 20 Aug 2012 08:25 AM PDT

Curiosity rover warms up its laser with basaltic rock blast


Curiosity rover warms up its laser with basaltic rock blast
Intrepid 6-wheeler Curiosity perhaps protested too much when it tweeted "Yes, I've got a laser beam attached to my head. I'm not ill tempered; I zapped a rock for science." NASA turned the rover's high-powered laser loose with 30 pulses of a million watts each, reducing a thin layer of the chosen stone, dubbed N165 "Coronation," to plasma. The resulting spectrum was then analyzed by the on-board "ChemCam" to determine its composition, and the US/French team who developed the system said it's working even better on Mars than it did on terra firma. The results are now being studied, but if we had a laser beam on another planet, we'd be firing it all over the place -- in the name of "science," of course.Filed under: ScienceCuriosity rover warms up its laser with basaltic rock blast originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Aug 2012 11:06:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink Forbes | NASA | Email this | Comments