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Wednesday, August 29, 2012

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Intel, IDT to make resonance charging a reality, see reference chipset coming in...

Posted: 29 Aug 2012 02:50 PM PDT

Intel, IDT to make resonance charging a reality, see reference chipset coming in first half of 2013


Intel, IDT to make resonance charging a reality, see reference chipset coming in first half of 2013
Intel has been talking up wireless charging for years, to the point where we thought its implementation would forever remain a concept for the lab. Not so: Intel is having Integrated Device Technology (IDT) build a real-world chipset to support resonance charging in our gadgets. The lofty goal is to have a ready-made platform for charging up a mobile device or peripheral just by keeping it close to another device with a charger built-in, such as an Ultrabook; there's none of the unseemly contact plates used with inductive wireless power. Intel's commitment is still very much early and won't put a full, two-way resonance chipset into the hands of hardware makers until sometime during the first half of 2013, let alone into a shipping product. We'll take it all the same, as it just might be the first step toward embracing wireless power on a truly large scale.Continue reading Intel, IDT to make resonance charging a reality, see reference chipset coming in first half of 2013Filed under: Cellphones, Laptops, PeripheralsIntel, IDT to make resonance charging a reality, see reference chipset coming in first half of 2013 originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 29 Aug 2012 17:41:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink AllThingsD | Intel | Email this | Comments

Jelly Bean pre-release for Verizon Galaxy Nexus now available from Google

Posted: 29 Aug 2012 02:50 PM PDT

Jelly Bean pre-release for Verizon Galaxy Nexus now available from Google


Jelly Bean pre-release for Verizon Galaxy Nexus now available from Google
More timid users might want to sit this one out, but for everyone else, you'll be glad to know that a pre-release build of Android 4.1 is now available for installation on the Galaxy Nexus from Verizon. Many of you are likely aware that custom Android builds such as AOKP and CyanogenMod have provided an early taste of Jelly Bean for a while now, but this time around, the flashable zip files are available directly from Google -- that's right, this is pure AOSP. Specifically, users will be treated to build JRO03O, which is an incremental update over the previously released binaries. The caveat here is that the software has yet to receive certification from Verizon, and you'll need to unlock your bootloader to join in the fun. For experienced users who've already installed a custom recovery utility such as ClockworkMod Recovery, the process couldn't be easier. Naturally, if you're already on a custom build, you should perform a data wipe within the recovery utility, then install the IMM76Q package and then flash the JRO03O build on top of that. Regardless of your experience level, anyone with the proper motivation should be able to pull this one off. Those starting at square one will find a complete list of instructions at the source link below.Filed under: Cellphones, Software, MobileJelly Bean pre-release for Verizon Galaxy Nexus now available from Google originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 29 Aug 2012 17:22:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink Android Central | Android Central forums | Email this | Comments

Prius C is first hybrid in Toyota's College Grad rebate program

Posted: 29 Aug 2012 02:19 PM PDT

Prius C is first hybrid in Toyota's College Grad rebate program


Prius C is first hybrid in Toyota's College Grad rebate program
Filed under: Hybrid, Toyota, North America, USA You may have a six-figure mountain of debt but, hey, you'll get $1,000 off of a Prius C. The new compact hybrid from Toyota is the first hybrid to be added to the Japanese automaker's College Grad Rebate Program, which offers $1,000 off for buyers of lessees of the model. Toyota Financial Services recently added the Prius C to the list of models that so far includes the Corolla, Matrix, RAV4 and Yaris. New buyers who use the program can also benefit from no money down and no payments for three months. All qualifiers have to do is show proof of graduation within the past two years or within the next six months - oh, and proof of a job. The Prius C, which gets a combined 50 miles per gallon, has accounted for about third of all Prius models sold in the U.S. since being introduced this spring.Continue reading Prius C is first hybrid in Toyota's College Grad rebate programPrius C is first hybrid in Toyota's College Grad rebate program originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 29 Aug 2012 16:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Meet your desktop's ancestors: AT&T exhumes footage of the Bell Blit (video)

Posted: 29 Aug 2012 02:19 PM PDT

Meet your desktop's ancestors: AT&T exhumes footage of the Bell Blit (video)


Meet your desktop's ancestors: AT&T exhumes footage of the Bell Blit (video)
AT&T's video archives are rich seams of juicy historical tidbits, and today's offering is a fine example. It's sharing footage of the Bell Blit, a graphic interface that Bell Labs developed after being inspired by the Xerox Alto. Originally named the Jerq, it was created by Rob Pike and Bart Locanthi to have the same usability as the Alto, but with "the processing power of a 1981 computer." Watch, as the narrator marvels at being able to use multiple windows at once, playing Asteroids while his debugging software runs in the background on that futuristic green-and-black display. The next time we get annoyed that Crysis isn't running as fast as you'd like it to, just remember how bad the geeks of yesteryear had it.Continue reading Meet your desktop's ancestors: AT&T exhumes footage of the Bell Blit (video)Filed under: Desktops, Software, AltMeet your desktop's ancestors: AT&T exhumes footage of the Bell Blit (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 29 Aug 2012 16:53:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink Gizmodo | | Email this | Comments

President Obama's doing an AMA on Reddit today, invites the people to pose their...

Posted: 29 Aug 2012 01:47 PM PDT

President Obama's doing an AMA on Reddit today, invites the people to pose their digital questions


President Obama's doing an AMA on Reddit today, invites the people to pose their digital questions
His competition from the GOP, Mitt Romney, already answered the people's questions on Yahoo! Answers, and now the Commander in Chief has decided to take on any and all internet queries too. The virtual Q&A with Obama is set to start at 4:30 ET today via an ask me anything session on Reddit, so head on over to the source link and see if your President will see fit to answer your questions -- be they about health care, net neutrality or even the Cubs non-existent playoff chances.Filed under: Internet, AltPresident Obama's doing an AMA on Reddit today, invites the people to pose their digital questions originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 29 Aug 2012 16:25:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink @panzer (Twitter) | Reddit, Twitter (Barack Obama) | Email this | Comments

Windows Phone 8 may land October 29th, just days after its desktop brother

Posted: 29 Aug 2012 01:47 PM PDT

Windows Phone 8 may land October 29th, just days after its desktop brother


Windows Phone 8 may land October 29th, just days after its desktop brother
Word on the street is that Windows Phone 8 will get its official launch on October 29th. When asked for confirmation, Microsoft issued a pretty standard "no comment," which leads us to believe there might actually be something to this rumor. With Windows 8 slated to land on October 26th, we wouldn't be surprised to see its portable counterpart hit the market just a few days later, as ZDNet's Mary Jo Foley is suggesting. October is already expected to be a rather hectic month for Microsoft, with launch of countless Windows 8 tablets scheduled. Putting WP8 out alongside its first batch of handsets (hello ATIV S!) would only make sense, really. We can think of a reason or two that Microsoft might want to utterly dominate a few news cycles.Filed under: Cellphones, MobileWindows Phone 8 may land October 29th, just days after its desktop brother originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 29 Aug 2012 16:19:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | ZDNet | Email this | Comments

Novation launches MiniNova compact hardware synth with 'VocalTune' (video)

Posted: 29 Aug 2012 01:47 PM PDT

Novation launches MiniNova compact hardware synth with 'VocalTune' (video)


Novation launches MiniNova compact hardware synth with 'VocalTune' (video)
Phones, tablets and huge TVs not your thing? Then thank the stars it's not just the gadget-mega-brands releasing products today. Maker of fine music gear, Novation, has just revealed its latest offering too -- the MiniNova. The more astute among you might have worked out from the nomenclature that this is a compact synth, but we're assured it has full-size features. There's 37 ivories (ok, plastics) for you to tickle, while the sound and effects engine has the same DNA as the maker's flagship UltraNova. You may have noticed that goose-neck microphone up top, and that'll come in handy with the new "VocalTune" and vocoder features. It'll land in your studio with 256 preset sounds, but there's space for another 128 of your own creations. Sound like something you can get down with? Then if you sing a song to the tune of £300 ($629 MSRP / $400 at dealers), you'll be able to call one your own from October. Excitement-stirring demo video after the break.Continue reading Novation launches MiniNova compact hardware synth with 'VocalTune' (video)Filed under: MiscNovation launches MiniNova compact hardware synth with 'VocalTune' (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 29 Aug 2012 16:04:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Novation | Email this | Comments

Volkswagen's 235-mpg XL1 caught hot-weather testing

Posted: 29 Aug 2012 01:08 PM PDT

Volkswagen's 235-mpg XL1 caught hot-weather testing


Volkswagen's 235-mpg XL1 caught hot-weather testing
Filed under: Diesel, EV/Plug-in, Hybrid, Volkswagen, Spy Shots Earlier this year, we caught the Volkswagen XL1 testing in some cold-weather climates, and as the ultra-fuel-efficient hybrid gets closer to production, some more spy photos have surfaced showing the car performing hot-weather tests. A production version of this diesel plug-in hybrid car is expected to return 235 miles per gallon, and it could be on sale in limited numbers by next year. Looking very much like the 2011 Volkswagen XL1 Concept, this prototype stands out with its streamlined shape and its inset, narrow rear track. The last time we saw the XL1 in prototype form, it had door mirrors mounted outside the car either as camouflage or in place of the side cameras, but these latest shots show that the car will in fact rely on cameras for driver visibility. The lack of door mirrors should help keep the car sleek - Volkswagen listed the concept's drag coefficient at just 0.186. This car is also missing the full rear-wheel covers that will give the car optimal aerodynamics. With the gullwing-like doors open, we can also see some of the interior, which has a very similar appearance as the concept including the large gauge cluster, navigation screen, shift lever and center stack controls. The instrument panel and A-pillar look to made from carbon fiber. One thing we can't see from this shot is the arrangement of the passenger seats. The concept car featured an offset seating configuration, and it isn't clear if this will carry over to the production design. From these shots we can also see into the rear engine compartment showing a large cooling fan over what is expected to be a small, two-cylinder diesel engine. This efficient engine combined with a 27-horsepower electric motor and seven-speed DSG transmission is what will help give this car its triple-digit fuel economy numbers.Volkswagen's 235-mpg XL1 caught hot-weather testing originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 29 Aug 2012 15:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Logitech unveils lineup of UE headphones for in, on and around your ears (hands-on)

Posted: 29 Aug 2012 01:08 PM PDT

Logitech unveils lineup of UE headphones for in, on and around your ears (hands-on)


Logitech unveils lineup of UE headphones for in, on and around your ears (hands-on)
Logitech acquired Ultimate Ears awhile back to take advantage of its experience with professional audio, and now it's leveraged some of that institutional knowledge to create a UE line of headphones aimed at consumers. First up, there's the $100 UE 4000 on-ear model that comes in three colors: black, blue and magenta, plus a detachable cord with an in-line mic and audio controls compatible with iOS devices. The UE 6000 model takes things up a notch with an over-ear design that folds up for easy storage on the go, has an in-line remote, plus it adds active noise cancellation technology for $200. Then there's the UE 9000 Bluetooth wireless cans that also have ANC and a full suite of on-ear controls for iPhone or iPad, which can be had for $400. Lastly, there's the $400 UE 900 in-ear headphones sporting a quad-armature design and two sets braided cables -- one with in-line controls, and one without. All of the UE models start shipping in the US today, and will be available in Europe next month. We got to try on and try out all of Logitech's new gear for a brief listening session awhile back, so join us after the break for our impressions.Gallery: Logitech UE 4000, 6000, 9000 and 900 headphones hands-onContinue reading Logitech unveils lineup of UE headphones for in, on and around your ears (hands-on)Filed under: Portable Audio/VideoLogitech unveils lineup of UE headphones for in, on and around your ears (hands-on) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 29 Aug 2012 15:36:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Logitech | Email this | Comments

Neil Armstrong's Corvette still for sale

Posted: 29 Aug 2012 12:37 PM PDT

Neil Armstrong's Corvette still for sale


Neil Armstrong's Corvette still for sale
Very unique piece of history up for grabs.

Need a case for that Galaxy Camera? Samsung's got you covered (eyes-on)

Posted: 29 Aug 2012 12:37 PM PDT

Need a case for that Galaxy Camera? Samsung's got you covered (eyes-on)


Need a case for that Galaxy Camera? Samsung's got you covered (eyes-on)
We've seen the ins and outs of Samsung's first Android-based digital camera, but how about an outer shell? You likely won't be transporting this junbo point-and-shoot in your pocket, making a variety of protective options a necessity. First up is the Flip Cover -- a camera-friendly variant of the Galaxy original, with a slide-in design and a large protective flap to cover up the LCD. There's also a full-on carrying case, which slips open to reveal the lens while offering a bit more protection. And, if you're going au naturel, you'll want to suit up with a wrist strap at the very least, offering a bit of insurance against potential slips and spills. We don't have pricing and availability info to share, but like the camera itself, it looks like there's a bunch of color configurations to choose from, all pictured in the gallery below.Gallery: Samsung Galaxy Camera accessories eyes-onFiled under: CamerasNeed a case for that Galaxy Camera? Samsung's got you covered (eyes-on) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 29 Aug 2012 15:17:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Logitech's UE Smart Radio, Boombox, and Mobile Boombox give you wireless audio o...

Posted: 29 Aug 2012 12:37 PM PDT

Logitech's UE Smart Radio, Boombox, and Mobile Boombox give you wireless audio on the go (hands-on)


Logitech's UE Smart Radio, Boombox, and Mobile Boombox give you wireless audio on the go (hands-on)
In addition to producing a slew of new headphones, Logitech's latest collaboration with Ultimate Ears has produced a pair of Bluetooth speakers and a Smart Radio. The UE Smart Radio comes equipped with 802.11b/g WiFi on board to pull audio from directly from the likes of Spotify and Pandora or from local sources like Mac, PC, iOS or Android devices. A 2.4-inch LCD is on the front, along with the usual audio controls, plus there are six preset buttons that can be programmed to easily access playlists from myriad locales. It's also got a rechargeable battery, good for a claimed six hours of playback, and will set you back $180 when it goes on sale next month.Gallery: Logitech UE Smart Radio, Boombox and Mobile Boombox hands-on Logitech's UE Mobile Boombox replaces the firm's Mini Boombox, but keeps its $100 price. It comes in five colors (red, yellow, blue, white and black) and can both stream your tunes via Bluetooth and serve as a speakerphone using its omni-directional mic. You can pair up to eight devices with the Mobile Boombox, and its rechargeable battery promises up to ten hours of listening pleasure. In our brief ears-on, we found it offered clear sound, though unsurprisingly, it struggled to pump out much bass. That said, we really liked its solid rubber construction, and can see it holding up well to abuse. Its big brother, the $250 UE Boombox, has much better low-end response and a fuller sound generally thanks to its eight drivers. Like the Mini, it also can pair with eight devices and has a rechargeable battery, though it promises only six hours of audio. We really dig its cast aluminum chassis and clean lines, and the handle on top begs to be used in old-school fashion -- with the Boombox propped up on your shoulder bumping some choice hip-hop. Both of these Bluetooth speakers start shipping this month, and our friends in grand Europa get them in September.Continue reading Logitech's UE Smart Radio, Boombox, and Mobile Boombox give you wireless audio on the go (hands-on)Filed under: Portable Audio/VideoLogitech's UE Smart Radio, Boombox, and Mobile Boombox give you wireless audio on the go (hands-on) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 29 Aug 2012 15:09:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Logitech | Email this | Comments

Gamera II hits new high with unofficial human-powered helicopter altitude record...

Posted: 29 Aug 2012 12:37 PM PDT

Gamera II hits new high with unofficial human-powered helicopter altitude record (video)


Gamera II hits new high with unofficial human-powered helicopter altitude record (video)
The University of Maryland team responsible for the Gamera II human-powered helicopter NAA flight time record may be on its way to bagging another one -- this time for altitude. With new freshman pilot Henry Enerson spinning the cranks, the gigantic four-rotor design ascended to eight feet, an unexpectedly lofty level, according to the team. The well-controlled 25 second flight was far less than the record 49.9 seconds Gamera achieved earlier, but the new altitude bodes well for its upcoming Sikorsky Prize attempt. That $250,000 award, unclaimed since 1980, requires a 10-foot altitude to be maintained for one minute, and now looks to be distinctly in the UMD group's sights. Check the video after the break, and marvel at the ungainly quadrocopter's latest aerial exploit.Continue reading Gamera II hits new high with unofficial human-powered helicopter altitude record (video)Filed under: Transportation, AltGamera II hits new high with unofficial human-powered helicopter altitude record (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 29 Aug 2012 14:48:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Team Gamara (YouTube) | Email this | Comments

Netgear intros sharing-savvy N750 Premium Edition router, powerline and WiFi ada...

Posted: 29 Aug 2012 12:37 PM PDT

Netgear intros sharing-savvy N750 Premium Edition router, powerline and WiFi adapters for media fans


Netgear intros sharing-savvy N750 Premium Edition router, powerline and WiFi adapters for media fans
Netgear is giving its home networking the same sort of tuneup going into the fall that you'd give your car -- not a complete overhaul, but enough to keep it running in top form. Headlining the pack, the N750 Premium Edition router you're looking at above upgrades the original N750 through a better ability to play with others: the dual-band WiFi hotspot's ReadyShare file access expands to the cloud, while its USB support now envelops Apple's AirPrint and Time Machine as well as TiVo Storage. Media sharing mavens also get their own, more specific add-ons. The Powerline Media Extender can pipe audio (and USB printing or storage) over a 200Mbps link, with a major emphasis on AirPlay streaming; the N900 4-port WiFi Adapter is a slightly less exotic, 450Mbps wireless-to-Ethernet bridge for multi-device home theaters. If Netgear's refresh is tempting enough to prompt a trade-up, you can snag the N750 Premium Edition immediately for $120 or wait until September and October for the respective launches of the N900 adapter for $80 and the Powerline Music Extender in its single pack ($99) or dual-device starter kit ($139) editions.Continue reading Netgear intros sharing-savvy N750 Premium Edition router, powerline and WiFi adapters for media fansFiled under: Home Entertainment, NetworkingNetgear intros sharing-savvy N750 Premium Edition router, powerline and WiFi adapters for media fans originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 29 Aug 2012 14:31:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Netgear (N750 Premium), (Powerline Music Extender), (N900 WiFi Adapter) | Email this | Comments

Hands-on with the Samsung ATIV Smart PC (aka the Series 5 Slate)

Posted: 29 Aug 2012 12:37 PM PDT

Hands-on with the Samsung ATIV Smart PC (aka the Series 5 Slate)


Hands-on with the Samsung ATIV Smart PC (aka the Series 5 Slate)
Would a Series 5 Slate be just as sweet under any other name? We've already got hands-on with the ATIV Smart PC Pro (called the Series 7 Slate in the US) and now we're going to show you the wonder that is the ATIV Smart PC -- aka, the Series 5 Slate on this side of the Atlantic. And what can we say? It's a lot like the Series 7 we checked out, though this guy is of course a smidge thinner and lighter, given the fanless design and inclusion of an Atom-based Clover Trail processor instead of something in the Ivy Bridge family. Another difference: that 11.6 inch display. It's still bright, of course, but the resolution is a lower 1,366 x 768, as opposed to the 1080p panel used in the Series 7 / Smart PC Pro. That caveat aside, the Series 5 / Smart PC is still pretty sexy, with that vibrant display and brushed metal back -- though, as mentioned in our hands-on with the dock, that beauty clashes a bit with the relative cheapness of the keyboard. As you may have read, the two slates also have stylus slots, though the S Pen was nowhere in sight during our demo -- perhaps to keep it out of the hands of sneaky bloggers. In the meantime, we've got some hands-on photos, but we encourage you to refer back to our Series 7 / Smart PC Pro hands-on to compare the designs, and get a better feel for the custom apps Samsung has bundled.Gallery: Samsung ATIV Smart PC tablet hands-on Dana Wollman contributed to this report.Continue reading Hands-on with the Samsung ATIV Smart PC (aka the Series 5 Slate)Filed under: Laptops, TabletsHands-on with the Samsung ATIV Smart PC (aka the Series 5 Slate) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 29 Aug 2012 14:31:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Samsung brands its dockable, S Pen-touting Windows 8 tablets as ATIV Smart PC an...

Posted: 29 Aug 2012 12:37 PM PDT

Samsung brands its dockable, S Pen-touting Windows 8 tablets as ATIV Smart PC and Smart PC Pro


Samsung brands its dockable, S Pen-touting Windows 8 tablets as ATIV Smart PC and Smart PC Pro
Samsung didn't leave its ATIV introductions to just an ARM tablet and a phone. We first saw them as the Series 5 and Series 7 tablets, which will likely be their final US names; to recap, though, the newly branded ATIV Smart PC and ATIV Smart PC Pro both look to capture some of that Transformer-like aura by mating an 11.6-inch tablet with a detachable keyboard dock for a laptop experience. Some of Samsung's own Galaxy Note vibe rubs off on them, too -- both carry an S Pen and a bundled S Note app for some on-the-spot writing. They likewise share support for 3G and 4G as well as micro-HDMI and USB, but there's a clear difference depending on what you buy. Going for the regular Smart PC loads in a modest Clover Trail-based Intel Atom processor and a 1,366 x 768 display, but offers a lengthy 13.5-hour battery life, 2GB of RAM, up to a 128GB flash drive, a rear 8-megapixel camera and a 2-megapixel front camera. Slap that "Pro" moniker on the front and you have to drop to eight hours of battery life and a 5-megapixel rear camera, but you'll get a much faster Core i5 processor, a 1080p display, 4GB of RAM and as much as a 256GB SSD. Unlike the ATIV Tab, we do know the Smart PCs will be available in the US on October 26th at $649 for a base Smart PC/Series 5, $749 for a bundle with the keyboard and $1,119 for a Smart PC Pro/Series 7 with a 128GB SSD built-in. Gallery: Samsung ATIV Smart PC and Smart PC Pro Press ShotsContinue reading Samsung brands its dockable, S Pen-touting Windows 8 tablets as ATIV Smart PC and Smart PC ProFiled under: TabletsSamsung brands its dockable, S Pen-touting Windows 8 tablets as ATIV Smart PC and Smart PC Pro originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 29 Aug 2012 14:25:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Samsung says Jelly Bean update coming to Galaxy S III and Note 10.1 'very soon'

Posted: 29 Aug 2012 12:37 PM PDT

Samsung says Jelly Bean update coming to Galaxy S III and Note 10.1 'very soon'


Samsung says Jelly Bean update coming to Galaxy S III and Note 10.1 'very soon'
It's not as specific as we're guessing some would like, but Samsung confirmed during its IFA 2012 keynote today that a Jelly Bean update is coming to both the Galaxy S III and Galaxy Note 10.1 "very soon." That is at least a bit more encouraging than the "later this year" that we last heard for the Note 10.1, and follows a leak of an official GS3 Jelly Bean build earlier this month. The original Galaxy Note wasn't specifically mentioned on stage, but it did make an appearance on the company's Jelly Bean slide, so we'd assume an update for it is coming as well, if not necessarily "very soon."Filed under: Cellphones, Tablets, MobileSamsung says Jelly Bean update coming to Galaxy S III and Note 10.1 'very soon' originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 29 Aug 2012 14:16:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Flipboard adds dedicated video channels, decides reading isn't everything

Posted: 29 Aug 2012 12:37 PM PDT

Flipboard adds dedicated video channels, decides reading isn't everything


Flipboard adds dedicated video channels, decides reading isn't everything
Flipboard supports video, but it's always been focused on modernizing the reading experience. Until today, that is. The app is taking advantage of YouTube channels to give readers -- sorry, viewers -- a steady stream of video pattered along common themes. Basic feeds for concepts like cooking, music and news sit side-by-side with more esoteric sections for 'influencers,' fashion and (our favorite) science. Is it the end of reading? We don't think so, but it does mean we won't have to hop to another app to get our moving picture fix, which we're sure is as much Flipboard's dream come true as it is ours.Filed under: Cellphones, Tablets, SoftwareFlipboard adds dedicated video channels, decides reading isn't everything originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 29 Aug 2012 14:15:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink PaidContent | Flipboard | Email this | Comments

Samsung ATIV Smart PC dock hands-on

Posted: 29 Aug 2012 11:33 AM PDT

Samsung ATIV Smart PC dock hands-on


Samsung ATIV Smart PC dock hands-on
And hey, what's a Windows 8 tablet without a docking station? Sure enough, Samsung was showing off a snazzy one tonight that turns your bright and beautiful ATIV Smart PC (which is a bit chunkier than its brother) into a notebook. The tablet slots into the top of the keyboard dock, with the Windows 8 button obscured slightly by the top of the dock. The device does look a fair amount like a netbook when it's firmly nestled inside. But we have to say, the quality of the dock doesn't match the beauty of the tablet itself, the plasticky bottom clashing with the brushed aluminum backing, particularly where the lip shows up slightly on the rear of the device. When using the dock, you're likely going to spend most of your time in the classic UI -- and when you want to switch, you can just hit the button at the top of the dock to release the tablet from its docky prison. The buttons and trackpad feel a bit like a low-end netbook, and we had to do some fiddling to get that mouse across the desktop. We're hoping that Samsung will either release a slicker version or we'll be seeing something from a third-party manufacturer. In the meantime, the dock feels more like a second home for the tablet, best saved for those rare occasions when you'll need to do, say, some serious word processing.Gallery: Samsung ATIV Smart PC hands-onSamsung ATIV Smart PC dock hands-on originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 29 Aug 2012 14:05:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Job creation a big part of selling 54.5 MPG fuel economy standard

Posted: 29 Aug 2012 11:02 AM PDT

Job creation a big part of selling 54.5 MPG fuel economy standard


Job creation a big part of selling 54.5 MPG fuel economy standard
Filed under: MPG, Legislation and Policy, USA The White House is taking its time to issue final federal rules for automakers to reach the 54.5 MPG by 2025 fuel economy standard. To fill the open space, many people are having their say in the matter, to influence the outcome. Three Republican Congressmen, for example, would like to see a delay to further consider higher fuel economy rules on "consumer safety." On the positive side, DrivingGrowth and the Consumer Federation of America say that jobs are being created by fuel efficiency and that consumers look forward to saving more money at the gas pump. Forbes contributor Mindy Lubber says that the "shift toward efficiency and advanced technology is driving job creation, investment and innovation across the country." Lubber says automakers and suppliers will have better sales, profits and more jobs with the increase to 54.5 mpg. Ford is investing $135 million more in hybrid and electric production, and doubling the size of its team on forward-looking energy technologies. Honda is planning to hire 300 more workers next year at its Greensburg, IN, plant, which is slated to start producing the Civic Hybrid. Volkswagen is adding a third shift at its Chattanooga, TN plant to build more of its fuel-efficient Passats. And tier-one supplier Continental pursuing electrification technologies. Also mentioned is a report issued by Ceres, a nonprofit that leads a coalition of organizations and public interest groups to address sustainability and global climate change. The Ceres commissioned report, More Jobs Per Gallon, states that the 54.5 mpg rule would create nearly 700,000 new jobs nationwide and more than 63,000 in the auto industry. It's similar to the DrivingGrowth report, which is also supported by environmental groups.Job creation a big part of selling 54.5 MPG fuel economy standard originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 29 Aug 2012 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Time Warner Cable expanding fiber broadband coverage in NYC, only businesses to...

Posted: 29 Aug 2012 11:02 AM PDT

Time Warner Cable expanding fiber broadband coverage in NYC, only businesses to benefit


Time Warner Cable expanding fiber broadband coverage in NYC, only businesses to benefit
Google, we're not in Kansas anymore, we're in New York, where Time Warner Cable is planning to drop $25 million on expanding its (up to) 1Gbps fiber broadband infrastructure. Specifically, the additional network is hitting neglected areas in Brooklyn and Manhattan, but it's not for general consumption -- it's strictly for businesses. Don't feel too disheartened though -- you might not be getting a slice of this particular fiber pie, but it's all you can eat, all the time at the free WiFi buffet.Continue reading Time Warner Cable expanding fiber broadband coverage in NYC, only businesses to benefitFiled under: NetworkingTime Warner Cable expanding fiber broadband coverage in NYC, only businesses to benefit originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 29 Aug 2012 14:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink CNET | | Email this | Comments

If Content Is King, Multiscreen Is The Queen, Says New Google Study

Posted: 29 Aug 2012 11:01 AM PDT

If Content Is King, Multiscreen Is The Queen, Says New Google Study


If Content Is King, Multiscreen Is The Queen, Says New Google Study
New research out from Google, working with market analysts Ipsos and Sterling Brands, puts some hard numbers behind the often-noticed trend of how people in the U.S. are using a combination of phones, tablets, computer and TVs to consume digital content. While each of these has a significant place in our consumption today, their real power lies in how they are used together -- in combination, 90% of all of our media consumption, or 4.4 hours per day, is happening across all four (which doesn't leave much room for paper-based books and publications; or for radio). This not only has implications for how content is designed, but also for how companies like Google will continue to hedge their bets across all four screens.

Samsung Galaxy Note II: what's changed?

Posted: 29 Aug 2012 11:01 AM PDT

Samsung Galaxy Note II: what's changed?


Samsung Galaxy Note II: what's changed?
It's hard to believe that the word "phablet" has now been in our vocabulary for exactly a year. Perhaps even more difficult to believe is that it's still in our lexicon, but it doesn't look like the term is going anywhere anytime soon. Today, Samsung introduced the Galaxy Note II, a followup to the company's S-Pen equipped sleeper hit introduced at last year's IFA. But what does the sequel have that the original doesn't? Head below with us as we take a closer look at how the two devices compare. Note: We'll continue filling out the chart as details surface. Gallery: Samsung Galaxy Note II hands-on Gallery: Samsung Galaxy Note II Press ShotsContinue reading Samsung Galaxy Note II: what's changed?Filed under: Cellphones, Tablets, Wireless, MobileSamsung Galaxy Note II: what's changed? originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 29 Aug 2012 13:46:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Samsung Windows 8 ATIV Tab hands-on (video)

Posted: 29 Aug 2012 11:01 AM PDT

Samsung Windows 8 ATIV Tab hands-on (video)


Samsung Windows 8 ATIV Tab hands-on (video)
Well, well, well, what have we here? It's yet another beautiful tablet from the folks at Samsung. We've got our hands on the Samsung ATIV Windows 8 Tab, and it looks and feels fantastic -- and familiar. Yep, if you've ever seen or played with a Samsung Galaxy Tab, you'll know what you're in for, a solid and beautiful tablet with a brushed aluminum back. The screen is extremely vivid, and yeah, we had to turn it down to get some decent shots of the thing. The big tell, however, is the new square Windows button on the bottom bezel. Yep, this thing is rocking Windows 8, in all of its glory. The other big tip off: there's no stylus on the slate. You're going to be using you finger to navigate through the operating system -- sorry S-Pen fans. The tablet is extremely zippy, as well -- and no question why -- the device is rocking a 1.5GHz Snapdragon S4 processor on top of 2.00GB of memory. Obviously the tablet is best suited to the tile UI, though you can swap between that and the older familiar one by clicking the right tile. We'll get you more information as it become available -- in the meantime, please enjoy the following image gallery.Gallery: Samsung ATIV Windows 8 tablet hands-onFiled under: TabletsSamsung Windows 8 ATIV Tab hands-on (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 29 Aug 2012 13:45:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Samsung Galaxy Note II getting redesigned S Pen with rubber tip, improved grip

Posted: 29 Aug 2012 11:01 AM PDT

Samsung Galaxy Note II getting redesigned S Pen with rubber tip, improved grip


Samsung Galaxy Note II getting redesigned S Pen with rubber tip, improved grip
Today at its IFA 2012 press conference, Samsung confirmed that the newly announced Galaxy Note II will make use of a new, redesigned S Pen. In addition to boasting an improved 8mm grip, it has a rubber tip. It also recognizes 1,024 levels of pressure sensitivity, which is already true of the Galaxy Note 10.1 tablet. Other than that, Samsung hasn't shared much in the way of specifics, but if you'd like to see video of the new Note in action, we can at least offer that.Filed under: TabletsSamsung Galaxy Note II getting redesigned S Pen with rubber tip, improved grip originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 29 Aug 2012 13:33:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Samsung introduces ATIV Tab: a 10.1-inch Windows RT tablet

Posted: 29 Aug 2012 11:01 AM PDT

Samsung introduces ATIV Tab: a 10.1-inch Windows RT tablet


Samsung introduces ATIV Tab: a 10.1-inch Windows RT tablet
Samsung's busy cranking out its fall lineup here in Berlin, and among the new entries is the ATIV Tab, a Windows RT-packing cousin of the Galaxy Note 10.1. The new 10.1-inch slate isn't quite as aggressive as its Android counterpart and centers on a 1,366 x 768 display, a 1.5GHz dual-core processor, a 5MP rear camera paired with a 1.9MP front-facing cam, and ports for micro-HDMI as well as USB. Dimensionally, the tablet is as light and skinny as you'd hope: it weighs 20.1 ounces (570g) and measures a slim 8.9mm thick. The 32GB and 64GB storage options aren't shockers given the extra space Windows and the bundled copy of Office 2013 Home and Student 2013 will demand, but there's a treat for long-haul users in the battery -- it's been upgraded from the 7,000maH pack of the Note 10.1 to an ample 8,200mAh unit. Samsung hasn't handed out launch details, but it's safe to say that the ATIV Tab won't arrive any sooner than October 26th. Check out all of our IFA 2012 coverage at our event hub!Filed under: Tablets, WirelessSamsung introduces ATIV Tab: a 10.1-inch Windows RT tablet originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 29 Aug 2012 13:32:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Man caves of the rich and famous

Posted: 29 Aug 2012 11:01 AM PDT

Man caves of the rich and famous


Man caves of the rich and famous
Of course, man caves aren't just for regular joes. Rich and famous men also love having a little grotto devoted to manly pursuits. Here are some of the man caves of the rich and famous, and some lessons you can learn to transform your own cave.

Samsung announces EK-GC100 Galaxy Camera with Android Jelly Bean, massive 4.8-in...

Posted: 29 Aug 2012 11:01 AM PDT

Samsung announces EK-GC100 Galaxy Camera with Android Jelly Bean, massive 4.8-inch display, 21x zoom, WiFi and 4G connectivity (hands-on)


Samsung announces EK-GC100 Galaxy Camera with Android Jelly Bean, massive 4.8-inch display, 21x zoom, WiFi and 4G connectivity (hands-on)
During a visit to Samsung's headquarters in Korea earlier this year, we had a chance to talk shop with company execs. The electronics maker's existing mirrorless and point-and-shoot lineups were the primary topic of discussion, but we did catch wind of a Galaxy product possibly to come, from the camera division. A Galaxy camera? That could only mean Android, and a heavy heaping of touch and connectivity. At the time, reps admitted only that they were "considering" such a device, and declined to provide any hint as to design or functionality. And we haven't heard a further peep, until today. As you may have gathered from recent rumors, Samsung's Galaxy Note II is not the only product to be Unpacked this afternoon. Sure enough, the anticipated Galaxy Camera is also on order, and we have all the juicy details just past the break.Gallery: Samsung Galaxy Camera hands-onGallery: Samsung Galaxy Camera Press ShotsContinue reading Samsung announces EK-GC100 Galaxy Camera with Android Jelly Bean, massive 4.8-inch display, 21x zoom, WiFi and 4G connectivity (hands-on)Filed under: CamerasSamsung announces EK-GC100 Galaxy Camera with Android Jelly Bean, massive 4.8-inch display, 21x zoom, WiFi and 4G connectivity (hands-on) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 29 Aug 2012 13:30:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Samsung ATIV S Revealed: Windows Phone 8, 4.8″ HD Display, 1.5GHz Dual-Core Proc...

Posted: 29 Aug 2012 11:01 AM PDT

Samsung ATIV S Revealed: Windows Phone 8, 4.8″ HD Display, 1.5GHz Dual-Core Processor


Samsung ATIV S Revealed: Windows Phone 8, 4.8″ HD Display, 1.5GHz Dual-Core Processor
Sorry Nokia, consider your thunder stolen. It hasn't yet made an appearance at Samsung's big IFA press conference inside the Berlin Tempodrom, but Samsung's first Windows Phone 8 device has just been made official thanks to a post on Microsoft's Windows Phone Blog. That device in question is the ATIV (EYY-tiv? Ah-TEEV?) S, a rather handsome new handset that sports a (sadly unspecified) 1.5GHz dual-core processor, 1GB of RAM, an 8-megapixel rear camera, and a 1.9-megapixel front-facing counterpart to boot. The spec sheet may not be the most riveting you'll ever see -- Windows Phone has never really required bleeding edge hardware -- but the move puts the pressure on Nokia to unveil something tremendous next week.

Meet The Galaxy Note II, Samsung’s Most Important Phone Yet

Posted: 29 Aug 2012 11:01 AM PDT

Meet The Galaxy Note II, Samsung's Most Important Phone Yet


Meet The Galaxy Note II, Samsung's Most Important Phone Yet
The original Samsung Note was huge -- in both physical size and popularity. Samsung sold over 10 million units of the huge phone, or rather, if you prefer, mini tablet. The Note II is more of the same, really. It sports a much more capable mobile SoC, which should make the Jelly Bean Android build run as smooth as, well, butter. Strangely, the new model features a lower resolution screen than the original, but that likely won't hurt sales. In all, the new Note is like the old Note. Engadget likes what they see so far. That's a good thing. It's still a massive thing, likely too big for some users. But that's fine with Samsung. The Note II shows Samsung's swagger. It might not be the best selling phone in Samsung's lineup, but it's the most important.