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Friday, August 31, 2012

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Engadget Podcast 308: IFA Edition - 08.31.2012

Posted: 31 Aug 2012 03:17 PM PDT

Engadget Podcast 308: IFA Edition - 08.31.2012


Engadget Podcast 308: IFA Edition - 08.31.2012
Live from a hotel room deep within the Euro Zone, it's the Engadget Podcast. This week it's all IFA all the time; if you're not quite sure what IFA should mean to you, we'll just put it this way: it's a lot like CES, but with more stollers. ¡Prost! Hosts: Brian HeaterGuests: Joseph Volpe, Mat SmithProducer: Trent WolbeMusic: Orbital - Never 06:28 - Huawei shows off early version of Emotion UI for Android, packs a 'stock' skin too (hands-on) 10:00 - Sony @ IFA 12:15 - Sony Xperia sola: a pint-sized Android handset with floating touch (hands-on) 22:05 - Hands-on with the Samsung ATIV Smart PC (aka the Series 5 Slate) 27:10 - ASUS 15-inch Zenbook U500: Ivy Bridge, optional NVIDIA graphics and a full numpad (update: hands-on) 29:19 - HTC Desire X hands-on (video) 30:12 - Panasonic's 145-inch 8K PDP eyes-on (video) 34:00 - Haier celebrates IFA with ultra high def 3D, transparent and eye-controlled TVsHear the podcast Subscribe to the podcast [iTunes] Subscribe to the Podcast directly in iTunes (enhanced AAC). [RSS MP3] Add the Engadget Podcast feed (in MP3) to your RSS aggregator and have the show delivered automatically. [RSS AAC] Add the Engadget Podcast feed (in enhanced AAC) to your RSS aggregator. [Zune] Subscribe to the Podcast directly in the Zune Marketplace. Download the podcastLISTEN (MP3)LISTEN (AAC) Contact the podcast Send your questions to @tim_stevens. Leave us a voicemail: (423) 438-3005 (GADGET-3005) E-mail us: podcast at engadget dot com eeFiled under: PodcastsEngadget Podcast 308: IFA Edition - 08.31.2012 originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 31 Aug 2012 17:48:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Walmart testing 'Scan & Go' iPhone self-checkout app, cashiers becoming endanger...

Posted: 31 Aug 2012 02:45 PM PDT

Walmart testing 'Scan & Go' iPhone self-checkout app, cashiers becoming endangered species


Walmart testing 'Scan & Go' iPhone self-checkout app, cashiers becoming endangered species
Reuters was tipped off to a survey that reveals Walmart, the world's largest retailer, is testing a new system that would allow customers to scan items with their iPhone then quickly pay at a self-checkout counter. The "Scan & Go" feature won't let you pay with your phone, at least not yet, but rather than scanning each item individually in line, shoppers will be able to quickly transfer their list to the kiosk and pay in one quick step. The hope is that the new system will dramatically speed checkout times and reduce congestion in the stores. The trial is taking place at the supercenter Rogers, AR, where the entire event will be monitored and recorded for research purposes. Participants are being rewarded with $100 and a $25 gift certificate towards their shopping experience. When or if "Scan & Go" will be delivered to John Q. Public remains to be seen. But we're sure fans of rolled back prices are eager to see it go live.Filed under: Cellphones, Software, MobileWalmart testing 'Scan & Go' iPhone self-checkout app, cashiers becoming endangered species originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 31 Aug 2012 17:21:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Walmart (Survey Monkey), Reuters | Email this | Comments

RIM details BlackBerry Enterprise Service 10: IT guys get a single web console f...

Posted: 31 Aug 2012 02:12 PM PDT

RIM details BlackBerry Enterprise Service 10: IT guys get a single web console for their various tools


RIM details BlackBerry Enterprise Service 10: IT guys get a single web console for their various tools
We already knew that RIM was readying a new version of its BlackBerry Enterprise Server to ship alongside the first BB10 devices in early 2013. Today, the company detailed the package, formally known as BlackBerry Enterprise Service 10. The big story here is that already-existing IT tools like BlackBerry Mobile Fusion, BlackBerry Device Service and Universal Device Service will be accessible from a single web console. The company also clarified that BlackBerry Device Service and Universal Device Service can run off separate servers, or just one. Take note, though, that the older BES 5+ will still need its own server for the time being. As we previously reported, too, the newest version of BES will offer legacy support to older devices -- specifically, it can support PlayBook tablets, phones running BlackBerry 7 OS or higher as well as iOS and Android devices.Filed under: Software, MobileRIM details BlackBerry Enterprise Service 10: IT guys get a single web console for their various tools originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 31 Aug 2012 16:55:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink TheNextWeb | RIM | Email this | Comments

WSJ: Amazon is building an ad-supported tablet

Posted: 31 Aug 2012 02:12 PM PDT

WSJ: Amazon is building an ad-supported tablet


WSJ: Amazon is building an ad-supported tablet
If you can't quite scrounge up the $200 it takes to buy a quality 7-inch slab these days, Amazon may have a solution for you: sell them your attention. According to the Wall Street Journal, the company plans to develop a ad-supported tablet that would display advertisements whenever the screen is turned on. Sound familiar? Like the ad-supported Kindle readers Amazon's already dabbled with, subsided tablets would ring in at a lower price tag then their ad-free counterparts. WSJ sources also mentioned that some versions of the device would be WiFi only, potentially lowering the price even further. No word yet, if you'll be able to buy yourself out of the ads later, of course.Filed under: TabletsWSJ: Amazon is building an ad-supported tablet originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 31 Aug 2012 16:40:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Wall Street Journal | Email this | Comments

YouTube live streaming this year's London Paralympics in the US and Canada

Posted: 31 Aug 2012 02:12 PM PDT

YouTube live streaming this year's London Paralympics in the US and Canada


YouTube live streaming this year's London Paralympics in the US and Canada
Now that the Usain Bolt and Michael Phelps show in London is well behind us, it's time for this summer's Paralympics to get started -- in fact, they've been underway since this past Wednesday, August 29th. But in case you've been missing out on all the action due to shortage of viewing options, YouTube just announced it'll be streaming over 500 hours of live competitions to folks in the US of A and Canada. The real-time streams are being brought to you via the ParalympicSportsTV channel, which will also offer more than 1000 hours of on-demand content, such as daily highlights, behind-the-scenes footage and athlete interviews. The only thing left to do now is grab some popcorn and hope your country of choice leads that glorious medal count -- so far, it's China with the celebrated number one spot.Filed under: Internet, HDYouTube live streaming this year's London Paralympics in the US and Canada originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 31 Aug 2012 16:37:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | YouTube Blog | Email this | Comments

Toyota shows off RAV4 EV's eco tricks with new videos

Posted: 31 Aug 2012 01:41 PM PDT

Toyota shows off RAV4 EV's eco tricks with new videos


Toyota shows off RAV4 EV's eco tricks with new videos
Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Toyota, Videos If a picture paints a thousand words, Toyota's hoping that a couple videos do a little better than that for its RAV4 Electric Vehicle. The Japanese automaker recently released a couple of videos touting the EV and its evolution through the company's partnership with Tesla Motors. The first five-plus-minute video features engineers discussing the benefits of collaborating with Tesla, including software advancements and battery technology that complemented Toyota's engine-packaging expertise. The other video, clocking in at almost five minutes, delves into the issue of aerodynamics and how engineers cut drag coefficient in an effort to boost range and chip away at drivers' potential feelings of "range anxiety." Toyota used its sleekest wheels, tires and headlamp lenses while customizing the front facia, adding a rear spoiler, removing the roof rack and smoothing out the underbody in order to allow the SUV to better cut the wind. Toyota, which first announced the RAV4 EV in 2010, said in May that the SUV will have a 100-mile single-charge range and will be priced at $49,800, with sales starting by the end of this year. Initial markets will be contained to California and Toyota is only expecting to make and sell around 2,600 vehicles during the first three years. You can see the videos below.Continue reading Toyota shows off RAV4 EV's eco tricks with new videosToyota shows off RAV4 EV's eco tricks with new videos originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 31 Aug 2012 16:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Google Play's End of Summer Sale outed by discounted apps, lets the Lorax speak...

Posted: 31 Aug 2012 01:41 PM PDT

Google Play's End of Summer Sale outed by discounted apps, lets the Lorax speak for the savings


Google Play's End of Summer Sale outed by discounted apps, lets the Lorax speak for the savings
It looks like a handful of select apps have outed Mountain View's Labor day plans: Google Play's End of Summer Sale. SwiftKey 3, The Lorax -- Dr. Seuss, Square Enix's Crystal Defenders, and other apps are now brandishing deep discounts, almost uniformly attributing the savings to the End of Summer Sale. Not every title on discount claims to be part of the unannounced event, however -- Max Payne Mobile slashed its price by 67 percent without so much as a hint at the alleged festivities. Google hasn't made the event official just yet, but we'd be willing to wager the deals will run through the holiday weekend. Check out the source link below to start making the most of your Google gift cards.Filed under: Gaming, Software, MobileGoogle Play's End of Summer Sale outed by discounted apps, lets the Lorax speak for the savings originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 31 Aug 2012 16:11:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink Android Police | Google Play | Email this | Comments

Intel opens up about its 'Knights Corner' supercomputer co-processor

Posted: 31 Aug 2012 01:07 PM PDT

Intel opens up about its 'Knights Corner' supercomputer co-processor


Intel opens up about its 'Knights Corner' supercomputer co-processor
HotChips is the show where chip makers come to show off their latest slices of silicon, and Knights Corner architect George Chrysos spilled the beans on Santa Clara's Xeon Phi co-processor. The unit's designed to bolt onto Xeon chips to help supercomputers crunch the numbers faster, by handling the "highly parallel" grunt work necessary for genetic and climate modeling, among other things. Chrysos has lofty goals for the hardware, hoping that it'll contribute to "scientific and technical progress," while we're just excited to see if it can help the company reclaim its Top 500 crown from IBM.Filed under: DesktopsIntel opens up about its 'Knights Corner' supercomputer co-processor originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 31 Aug 2012 15:46:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink Intel | Intel, (2) (PDF) | Email this | Comments

The Value Of Your iPhone Drops Every Second, So Try This

Posted: 31 Aug 2012 12:36 PM PDT

The Value Of Your iPhone Drops Every Second, So Try This


The Value Of Your iPhone Drops Every Second, So Try This
The value of your current iPhone is going down as I write this very sentence. And according to Gazelle, current iPhone models traditionally depreciate about 25 percent a couple weeks before the next generation iPhone is unveiled. And guess what? The new iPhone is about two weeks away. As Rafiki would say in the Lion King, "it is time." But what do you do?

Kyocera Rise arrives on Virgin Mobile with ICS, 3.5-inch display and slide-out Q...

Posted: 31 Aug 2012 12:35 PM PDT

Kyocera Rise arrives on Virgin Mobile with ICS, 3.5-inch display and slide-out QWERTY keys


Kyocera Rise arrives on Virgin Mobile with ICS, 3.5-inch display and slide-out QWERTY keys
Just as we'd heard, today's the day that budget-minded (and not-so-shy) Kyocera Rise hits the Virgin Mobile USA shelves. Available now for a mere $100 -- without any contracts, of course -- this 3.5-inch, Ice Cream Sandwich device boasts some pretty run-of-the-mill features, including an HVGA LCD (no word on the resolution), a single-core, 1GHz Snapdragon CPU, 2GB of built-in storage which can be expanded to 32GB via microSD and, as you can see above, a full-on, slide-out QWERTY keyboard. Naturally, Virgin Mobile's betting on folks to bundle the cheap handset with one of its unlimited data plans -- not to mention Kyocera's handset is yet another addition to the prepaid carrier's rising smartphone lineup. Those interested can give the Rise a better look down below, where a nice gallery filled with charming press shots awaits. Gallery: Kyocera Rise for Virgin Mobile press shotsContinue reading Kyocera Rise arrives on Virgin Mobile with ICS, 3.5-inch display and slide-out QWERTY keysFiled under: Cellphones, MobileKyocera Rise arrives on Virgin Mobile with ICS, 3.5-inch display and slide-out QWERTY keys originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 31 Aug 2012 15:19:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Virgin Mobile USA | Email this | Comments

Gmail advanced search gets autocomplete in 'from' and 'to' fields, three lab fea...

Posted: 31 Aug 2012 12:00 PM PDT

Gmail advanced search gets autocomplete in 'from' and 'to' fields, three lab features become standard


Gmail advanced search gets autocomplete in 'from' and 'to' fields, three lab features become standard
Coming on the heels of Google announcing additional languages for Gmail search, the dev team out in Mountain View is rolling out a few more tweaks. For starters, when you use advanced search, you'll now see autocomplete predictions in the "from" and "to" fields. Google is also "graduating" three labs: Refresh POP accounts, Filter import / export and Navbar drag and drop. Starting with that POP feature, you'll be able to click the refresh link at the top of the inbox to populate your inbox with new messages, and also fetch messages from any other POP address you've got set up. Moving on, that filter import / export feature should come in handy if you ant to share filters with friends or feel the need to back them up. Wrapping things up, the ability to drag and drop gadgets on the left-hand pane is good for, well, you get the idea.Filed under: SoftwareGmail advanced search gets autocomplete in 'from' and 'to' fields, three lab features become standard originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 31 Aug 2012 14:52:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Google (Google+) | Email this | Comments

MP4-12C Spider Makes Detroit Debut

Posted: 31 Aug 2012 12:00 PM PDT

MP4-12C Spider Makes Detroit Debut


MP4-12C Spider Makes Detroit Debut
McLaren's latest drop top is now on sale in North America.

LG E970 Eclipse for AT&T cruises through FCC approval

Posted: 31 Aug 2012 12:00 PM PDT

LG E970 Eclipse for AT&T cruises through FCC approval


LG E970 Eclipse for AT&T cruises through FCC approval
The Eclipse, LG's rumored "superphone" heading to AT&T, has just made it through the FCC approval process and is one step closer to seeing availability in time for the holiday season. Known also as the E970, the device unsurprisingly offers the usual AT&T LTE radios (band 4 and 17) but much like we've seen in other FCC applications recently, it also tacks on an additional two next-gen radios (bands 2 and 5), likely to get ready for an impending spectrum refarm attempt. From the docs we also learn that the Eclipse will have NFC along with the expected HSPA+ / UMTS / EDGE connectivity. As a recap, the device is rumored to offer a quad-core Krait APQ8064 and a 4.67-inch display with 1,280 x 768 resolution. So it looks like this particular handset is still on course for a Halloween launch, and we'll keep our eyes peeled for additional information.Filed under: Cellphones, Wireless, MobileLG E970 Eclipse for AT&T cruises through FCC approval originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 31 Aug 2012 14:24:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | FCC | Email this | Comments

Tips for hosting a wedding at home

Posted: 31 Aug 2012 12:00 PM PDT

Tips for hosting a wedding at home


Tips for hosting a wedding at home
Although at-home weddings are intimate and sentimental, they generally require more money and preparation than people realize. That being said, if done correctly, hosting a wedding at home can be an incredible experience.

Elon Musk might start Tesla, SpaceX holding company; talks electric supercar

Posted: 31 Aug 2012 11:25 AM PDT

Elon Musk might start Tesla, SpaceX holding company; talks electric supercar


Elon Musk might start Tesla, SpaceX holding company; talks electric supercar
Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Tesla Motors Elon Musk is talking about maybe forming a holding that would own stock in both of the companies he's incredibly busy with these days - Tesla Motors Inc. and Space Exploration Technologies Corp. (SpaceX) - basically to simplify his life. "No actual plans under way," he said. "[It] gets unwieldy to have lots of companies with me as the only connection." The holding company may own public shares of both California-based companies. Tesla Motors went public in 2010, and Musk is looking at launching an initial public offering of SpaceX next year. SpaceX has been doing pretty well lately. In May, it became the first private company to send a spacecraft to supply the International Space Station. In August, SpaceX landed a $440 million U.S. government contract to develop spacecraft for future cargo missions. Tesla Motors is looking forward to becoming profitable, and that may happen in 2013 through sales of its Model S battery-powered sedan. Next year will see the launch of its all-electric Model X crossover sport-utility vehicle. Musk also mentioned on a Web chat on Jalopnik that Tesla is thinking about rolling out an electric "supercar." This would cost more than the Tesla Roadster - supercars from brands such as Ferrari and Lamborghini can cost more than $200,000. This will need to wait about four-to-five years, he said. It was going to happen right after the Model X, but it might be a good idea to make a less expensive electric car, since it is "more important to the world that we do a more affordable electric car." As automakers are learning, offering more affordable electric cars is a good idea. A $7,500 federal tax credit is usually available, but on cars like Model S, it probably doesn't make much of a difference. The Model S, which began production in June, has a starting price of $57,400 and can cost more than $100,000, depending on battery pack size and other options. If you're thinking about buying one of these or a $200,000-plus Tesla supercar, a $7,500 tax credit is, proportionally, peanuts.Elon Musk might start Tesla, SpaceX holding company; talks electric supercar originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 31 Aug 2012 14:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Listen to the Engadget Mobile Podcast, live at 3pm ET!

Posted: 31 Aug 2012 11:25 AM PDT

Listen to the Engadget Mobile Podcast, live at 3pm ET!


Listen to the Engadget Mobile Podcast, live at 3pm ET!
A giant man is burning somewhere in the desert, and Myriam is currently gazing upon him. In her absence, Brad will be joined by fellow Engadgeteers Dana Wollman and Jon Fingas to discuss the latest happenings at IFA (as well as the rest of the world). We've got a lot to discuss in a very short period of time, so the ratio of mobile geekery / minute is going to be pretty dang high. Join us at 3pm! August 31, 2012 3:00 PM EDTContinue reading Listen to the Engadget Mobile Podcast, live at 3pm ET!Filed under: Announcements, MobileListen to the Engadget Mobile Podcast, live at 3pm ET! originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 31 Aug 2012 14:01:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Samsung's dual-display Windows 8 laptop and other prototypes, hands-on

Posted: 31 Aug 2012 11:25 AM PDT

Samsung's dual-display Windows 8 laptop and other prototypes, hands-on


Samsung's dual-display Windows 8 laptop and other prototypes, hands-on
See that? It's not your daddy's flip hybrid tablet -- it's the new dual-display laptop prototype from the fine people at Samsung. The body of the notebook is certainly in the vein of a MacBook Air or ultrabook, with slim metal slides that taper off into a point. The palm rests, meanwhile, are a brushed metal, with black chiclet-style keys above. On the bezel above the screen is a camera. The magic, however, doesn't happen until you close the thing, turning on a display on the hood. Yep, it's yet another attempt to capitalize on Windows 8's dual-nature. Inside, you've got a fully functioning laptop and outside you've a touchscreen tablet that, yes, utilizes everyone's favorite proprietary stylus, the S-pen, and there's also a rear facing camera on the outside. Perhaps it's all that functionality packed inside, but this prototype is certainly heavier than your standard ultrabook, and unlike most systems, a lot of that weight is located in the display -- we're sure there's a fair amount of internals located up there. This being a prototype, the Samsung rep we spoke with had no clue on what such a device might cost or when it might come to market -- or even if this thing will ever see the light of day, so don't get your dual-hopes up just yet. The hybrid was sitting right next to the 2,560 x 1,440 Series 9 prototype we recently scoped out and in front of a wall of concepts that explore the brave new world of elastic form factors to their fullest. Check out a video and some notes on the other devices after the jump.Gallery: Hands-on with Samsung's concept laptopsContinue reading Samsung's dual-display Windows 8 laptop and other prototypes, hands-onFiled under: Laptops, TabletsSamsung's dual-display Windows 8 laptop and other prototypes, hands-on originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 31 Aug 2012 13:45:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Mophie readies Galaxy S III Juice Packs, coming very soon

Posted: 31 Aug 2012 11:25 AM PDT

Mophie readies Galaxy S III Juice Packs, coming very soon


Mophie readies Galaxy S III Juice Packs, coming very soon
If you thought Mophie was planning to keep its smartphone Juice Packs exclusively Apple-based -- we'd have probably agreed with you. But then we got to take a look at this pair of cases crafted for Samsung's Galaxy S III. Yep, the battery-packing cover (which looks likely to fit all the current iterations) promises to give "over double the battery life" of your un-augmented handset. This was just a brief peek -- but expect the (as-yet unpriced) cases to appear in stores around the end of October, early November.Filed under: Cellphones, Peripherals, MobileMophie readies Galaxy S III Juice Packs, coming very soon originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 31 Aug 2012 13:42:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

More Samsung Galaxy Stellar details spill, September 6th launch appears likely

Posted: 31 Aug 2012 11:25 AM PDT

More Samsung Galaxy Stellar details spill, September 6th launch appears likely


More Samsung Galaxy Stellar details spill, September 6th launch appears likely
More details about the Samsung Galaxy Stellar 4G LTE, Verizon's upcoming budget offering, are now surfacing from the midst of the carrier's internal systems. Our source has confirmed that the Stellar is now expected to launch on September 6th, and has provided some documentation that reveals the vast majority of the phone's spec sheet. Starter Mode once again gets mentioned here -- according to the docs, it's a "new, simple way to interact Access apps and control device settings with ease." As far as specs go, these docs back up the details leaked on Best Buy's website earlier: Android 4.0, a 1.2GHz dual-core CPU, 3.2MP rear camera and 1.3MP front-cacing cam and 800 x 480 WVGA display. Additionally, Amazon Kindle, Audible and Zappos apps are mentioned, as well as Bluetooth 4.0 and 4GB internal storage. Dimensionally, the phone will weigh 4.73 ounces and measures 121.92 x 63.75 x 11.94mm (yes, that last measurement is for thickness). Given the lower-end specs, the Stellar likely won't launch to a grand amount of fanfare -- especially if the $100 price point is accurate. Check out our gallery below to see a few more images of the crucial docs. As a sidenote, many of the images will have creatively blurred-out sections in order to protect the identity of our source. Gallery: Samsung Galaxy Stellar 4G LTE details [Thanks, Anonymous!]Filed under: Cellphones, Wireless, MobileMore Samsung Galaxy Stellar details spill, September 6th launch appears likely originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 31 Aug 2012 13:38:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Mix-Up Or Must-Buy Phone? Motorola May Reveal Smartphone With Edge-To-Edge Scree...

Posted: 31 Aug 2012 11:25 AM PDT

Mix-Up Or Must-Buy Phone? Motorola May Reveal Smartphone With Edge-To-Edge Screen Next Week


Mix-Up Or Must-Buy Phone? Motorola May Reveal Smartphone With Edge-To-Edge Screen Next Week
Motorola is dead-set on showing off some new hardware at its New York press event next week, but could it have more up its sleeve than we all expected? A handful of leaks (accidental and otherwise) have already outed the Droid RAZR M and the long-awaited RAZR HD, but Bloomberg seems to have confirmed the existence of another new Motorola handset whose description doesn't seem to match up with anything I've seen recently.

Chocolate eclair hot dog hits the Canada National Exhibition

Posted: 31 Aug 2012 11:25 AM PDT

Chocolate eclair hot dog hits the Canada National Exhibition


Chocolate eclair hot dog hits the Canada National Exhibition
Delicious or disgusting? The Canada National Exhibition is serving up some interesting meat-and-sweets combinations.

HP Launches The Beta Release Of Open WebOS

Posted: 31 Aug 2012 10:52 AM PDT

HP Launches The Beta Release Of Open WebOS


HP Launches The Beta Release Of Open WebOS
Gone are the days of HP's TouchPad and Palm ambitions, but HP is moving ahead with its plans to make webOS, it beleaguered mobile operating system, live on as open-source supported platform. Today it's launching the beta release. The news is getting announced in a blog post: "It has taken a lot of hard work, long hours and weekend sacrifices by our engineering team to deliver on our promise and we have accomplished this goal," the developers write. The plans to take webOS open source were first announced eight months ago.

Inside Line pits Tesla Model S against Porsche Panamera GTS

Posted: 31 Aug 2012 10:21 AM PDT

Inside Line pits Tesla Model S against Porsche Panamera GTS


Inside Line pits Tesla Model S against Porsche Panamera GTS
Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Porsche, Tesla Motors Well, that must've been fun. Inside Line really took one for the team by road-testing the battery-electric Tesla Model S and the Porsche Panamera GTS against each other. It's a tough life. Inside Line decided the Panamera GTS was the closest competitor to the Model S based on performance, price and size, even though the Porsche's base price of almost $112,000 is around $18,000 more than the "base" Model S Signature, the only version currently available (but who's going to quibble about that when you're in that type of tax bracket). Not surprisingly, performance was off the charts by any vehicle standards, let alone two vehicles with an average weight of about 4,500 pounds. Both vehicles were in the low four-second range when it came to 0 to 60 mile-per-hour acceleration testing, with the Tesla showing "just endless forward thrust," while the Porsche was "unreal" in the slalom. The Model S "felt pretty precise" in the handling tests and IL was also impressed with the suspension in the slalom runs, especially using the "standard" suspension mode. And in the true, apples-to-oranges fashion of testing an EV against a conventional "super-sedan," no winners were declared. Except for the guys running the tests, of course. For all the numerical test results, click here.Inside Line pits Tesla Model S against Porsche Panamera GTS originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 31 Aug 2012 12:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Open webOS now available to developers in beta

Posted: 31 Aug 2012 10:21 AM PDT

Open webOS now available to developers in beta


Open webOS now available to developers in beta
Just like that, HP is making good on its promise to release Open webOS in beta. The code is available today under the Apache 2.0 license, and is landing slightly ahead of schedule (HP long ago said the software would arrive in September.) All told, the beta release is comprised of 54 components, totaling over 450,000 lines of code. As you'd expect, too, the desktop build incorporates all the elements released so far on Ubuntu. The software also includes an ARM emulator, running db8, node.js and other services. Other highlights: the System Manager now has support for applications, including key ones like Calendar and Contacts. Many third-party Enyo apps are supported too, HP says. Been waiting all these months to get your coding on? Hit up the source link below for more information.Filed under: Software, MobileOpen webOS now available to developers in beta originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 31 Aug 2012 13:12:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | HP | Email this | Comments

Gnome-flavored Ubuntu desktop environment coming for purest purists

Posted: 31 Aug 2012 10:21 AM PDT

Gnome-flavored Ubuntu desktop environment coming for purest purists


Gnome-flavored Ubuntu desktop environment coming for purest purists
If you're a Linux user squarely in the Gnome desktop camp and sneer with disdain at the mention of Unity, there's good news -- your preferred flavor is coming, uncontaminated, to Ubuntu. Though "GNOMEBuntu" was originally floated as a name for the new environment, that idea was apparently kiboshed by the Gnome Foundation, leaving "GNOBuntu" and "Gnubuntu" as possible monikers, according to Mutkware. Neither Unity, nor cloud service Ubuntu One will be included in the distro, but you'll find a library of apps pre-installed, including the Epiphany browser and Rhythmbox music player. Customized settings will let you further tweak the purity level to suit your zeal -- so, if you're thinking about grabbing the upcoming alpha, check the source for more info.Filed under: Desktops, SoftwareGnome-flavored Ubuntu desktop environment coming for purest purists originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 31 Aug 2012 12:49:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink PC World | Muktware | Email this | Comments

Nokia 820 prototype breaks cover in photos, confirms little else

Posted: 31 Aug 2012 10:21 AM PDT

Nokia 820 prototype breaks cover in photos, confirms little else


Nokia 820 prototype breaks cover in photos, confirms little else
Renders, shmenders. According to Coolxap.com what you see above is a real-world prototype of the Nokia 820 -- aka Nokia Arrow. As well as some tantalizing hardware shots, we get a sneaky glimpse at that all important "About phone" page. All we can see, though, is that it's running Windows Phone 8 (shock) and has only 335MB of RAM? Though, being a prototype, that's likely to change. Sadly little else of note, but it's at least good to see that while the mock-ups were close, the real thing has a little more going for it.Filed under: Cellphones, MobileNokia 820 prototype breaks cover in photos, confirms little else originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 31 Aug 2012 12:27:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink WMPoweruser, WeLoveWP | Coolxap.com (Chinese) | Email this | Comments

Did Ford steal engine tech?

Posted: 31 Aug 2012 10:21 AM PDT

Did Ford steal engine tech?


Did Ford steal engine tech?
Inventor says automaker stole fuel injection system.

Engadget's back to school guide 2012: fun stuff!

Posted: 31 Aug 2012 10:21 AM PDT

Engadget's back to school guide 2012: fun stuff!


Engadget's back to school guide 2012: fun stuff!
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. The good news? We're on to the fun stuff, the gear that isn't always practical but will definitely help you let off some steam after a tough mid-term. 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! Laptops, phones and e-readers might be slick pieces of tech, but they'll all be used for business while you're buried in term papers during the semester. We're rounding up a set of gadgets meant purely to lift your spirits -- whether it's zapping fellow froshmates in a game of Lazer Tag or an electric motorbike to blast through the countryside on a long weekend. We've even got a few borderline sensible gadgets, such as a robot that will clean up after a wild party at the dorm. Jump past the break for our full collection of antidotes to the end-of-summer blues. Continue reading Engadget's back to school guide 2012: fun stuff!Filed under: MiscEngadget's back to school guide 2012: fun stuff! originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 31 Aug 2012 12:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Samsung smuggles new Series 9 prototype into IFA: 2,560 x 1,440 on a matte displ...

Posted: 31 Aug 2012 10:21 AM PDT

Samsung smuggles new Series 9 prototype into IFA: 2,560 x 1,440 on a matte display (hands-on)


Samsung smuggles new Series 9 prototype into IFA: 2,560 x 1,440 on a matte display (hands-on)
Well, this snuck up on us. Close to the end of the first official open-floor day at IFA, Samsung managed to eke out yet another product we want to get our hands on, soonish. This 13-inch Series 9 WQHD Ultrabook beams Windows 8 on 2,560 x 1,440 display (oh yes), making a visible leap beyond the existing Series 9 13-incher, which sticks to a more typical 1,600 x 900. Better still, the surface of the screen has a gentle matte finish. The engineering sample arrived in the Samsung spokesperson's hands just seven days ago. The resolution matches ASUS' high-grade gamer monitor in pixels, if falling ever so slightly short of the Retina Display on Apple's newest MacBook model. There was no news on what the manufacturer will call the new display tech, further specifications, or even whether this was just a proof of concept -- the device was chilling in the corner of the electronics giant's innovation gallery. Hopefully, Samsung won't hold out on those details for much longer. Take a look for yourself in our hands-on video after the break.Gallery: Samsung Series 9 WQHD concept hands-onContinue reading Samsung smuggles new Series 9 prototype into IFA: 2,560 x 1,440 on a matte display (hands-on)Filed under: Displays, LaptopsSamsung smuggles new Series 9 prototype into IFA: 2,560 x 1,440 on a matte display (hands-on) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 31 Aug 2012 11:56:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink MobileGeeks (YouTube) | | Email this | Comments

Sennheiser's Momentum headphones bring their leathery, metal goodness to IFA, we...

Posted: 31 Aug 2012 10:21 AM PDT

Sennheiser's Momentum headphones bring their leathery, metal goodness to IFA, we go hands-on (video)


Sennheiser's Momentum headphones bring their leathery, metal goodness to IFA, we go hands-on (video)
Now these are some seriously nice-looking headphones -- and really, that's sort of the thing here. After all, internally, these cans are quite similar to older models from Sennheiser, and spending a little time underneath them was a fully engrossing experience, the cups dampening out a lot of noise of the show floor even without music playing. What was even more immediately noticeable about the Momentum, however, was just how comfortable they were, thanks in no small part, to the use of hair-sheep skin straight out of Somerset, England -- yep, if you're anti-leather, these aren't the headphones for you. But man, the material feels really, really nice. The headphones are also quite light, which helps, so they shouldn't be too much of a strain when you wear them on the go -- and the Sennheiser rep we spoke with assured us that your ears still breathe well with them on, unlike a lot of over-ear pairs. The headband is made of a brushed stainless steel, which meets even more leather on the top of the headphones. Move down the wire and you'll see a panel with three buttons -- these control volume and let you pick up calls on your iPhone. Further down still ia a metal jack that bends, so you can keep the headphones at either a 180- or 90-degree angle from your device. Of course, all that fine sheep leather and metal doesn't come cheap -- these guys will run you a cool $350 when they hit the states this fall. Check out a hands-on video after the break.Gallery: Sennheiser Momentum ears-onContinue reading Sennheiser's Momentum headphones bring their leathery, metal goodness to IFA, we go hands-on (video)Filed under: Home Entertainment, Portable Audio/VideoSennheiser's Momentum headphones bring their leathery, metal goodness to IFA, we go hands-on (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 31 Aug 2012 11:49:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments