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Monday, September 24, 2012

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Sony announces new line of slim external batteries for smartphones and tablets

Posted: 24 Sep 2012 03:06 PM PDT

Sony announces new line of slim external batteries for smartphones and tablets


Sony announces new line of slim external batteries for smartphones and tablets
Sony announced on Monday that it will introduce a new line of external batteries for smartphones and tablets. Shipping in capacities of 3,500 to 7,000mAh, these external juice boxes weigh around 198 grams and measure 130.6mm by 12.9mm, making them about the size of a modern smartphone. Charging devices via USB, Sony claims that these portable pick me ups can be recharged up to 500 times and can charge most smartphones in an hour and a half. If toting another smartphone-like device around doesn't sound ideal to you, Sony will also be releasing smaller "stick-type" (think flash drives) external batteries in assorted colors. Both battery types are set to launch this fall, with prices ranging from 2,300 yen ($30) to 7,000 yen ($90). Wouldn't it just be easier to sell a marginally thicker phone with world-class battery life? A boy can dream...Filed under: Cellphones, Tablets, MobileSony announces new line of slim external batteries for smartphones and tablets originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 24 Sep 2012 18:02:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink TechHive | Sony (translated) | Email this | Comments

Must See HDTV (September 24th - 30th)

Posted: 24 Sep 2012 03:06 PM PDT

Must See HDTV (September 24th - 30th)


Must See HDTV (September 24th - 30th)
We are officially in the fall premiere season. From freshly-minted Emmy winners like Homeland to newbies like Last Resort, 666 Park Avenue and Elementary, the prime time schedule is suddenly full of shows jostling for our attention. Add in a full slate of movie releases, football games and even WNBA playoffs, well, and our DVRs have their work cut out for them. Look below for the highlights this week, followed after the break by our weekly listing of what to look out for in TV, Blu-ray and videogames.The Avengers One of the summer's biggest hits is here on disc, in two discs Blu-ray / DVD combo pack (no digital copy) and four disc Blu-ray 3D edition (with digital copy). We got a chance to check it out early and there's certainly enough extras here to keep the fans happy, along with a slick and fast-loading menu system. We did not get an opportunity to try out the Second Screen app yet, but with the price of the four disc pack down to $25, we figure most fans will getting thier money's worth -- unless of course they're waiting for the delayed Marvel Cinematic Universe edition. (September 25th, $24.99 on Amazon) Last Resort We're sure there's more to this military drama than just trying to be the next Lost, but when you start off stranded on a fictional island then throw in conspiracy theories and a submarine, our magnets start to tingle. From the trailer (embedded after the break)it certainly has an interesting plot, as the crew of a US military vessel is fired upon by its own country, and subsequently goes rogue in an attempt to find out why and get back home, but we've seen many of these mysterious shows come and go very quickly -- it will need to find its own hook, and fast. (September 27th, ABC, 8PM) Louie As we welcome in a slew of new shows, we say goodbye to one for now. Comedian Louis CK's show was also an award winner last night, and it was well deserved. After a Rocky-style take on the late night wars the show wraps up its season this week with what appears to be a New Year's themed episode. If you haven't checked it out yet and are a fan of CK's comedy style, this is probably the time. (September 28th, FX, 10:30PM)Continue reading Must See HDTV (September 24th - 30th)Filed under: Home Entertainment, HDMust See HDTV (September 24th - 30th) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 24 Sep 2012 17:38:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

YouTube gains translated caption support, tears down another language barrier

Posted: 24 Sep 2012 02:33 PM PDT

YouTube gains translated caption support, tears down another language barrier


YouTube gains translated caption support, tears down another language barrier
Aside from being powered by memes, likes and tweets, today's internet is strongly fueled by viral videos. King of the latter, YouTube has added yet another trendsetting feature to its repertoire. The Google owned video sharing service now gives its content producers the ability to add subtitles to their videos in over 300 languages. Leaning on Google Translate's software, this new feature gives YouTubers the option to add or request translated captions for their videos anytime during the content's lifespan. So, whether you're a casual vlogger, or an aspiring director hoping to have your recent short reach a broader audience, you now have to opportunity to snag some views on a global scale. Just be sure to remember us little people when those awards for best foreign film start rolling in.Filed under: Internet, HDYouTube gains translated caption support, tears down another language barrier originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 24 Sep 2012 17:23:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | YouTube | Email this | Comments

Join the Engadget HD Podcast live on Ustream at 5:30PM ET

Posted: 24 Sep 2012 02:33 PM PDT

Join the Engadget HD Podcast live on Ustream at 5:30PM ET


Join the Engadget HD Podcast live on Ustream at 5:30PM ET
It's Monday, which means it is time for you to listen into the recording booth when the Engadget HD podcast goes to mp3 at 5:30PM. Please be a part of it by reviewing the list of topics after the break, and then participating in the live chat too.Continue reading Join the Engadget HD Podcast live on Ustream at 5:30PM ETFiled under: HDJoin the Engadget HD Podcast live on Ustream at 5:30PM ET originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 24 Sep 2012 17:11:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Google updates Chrome app for iOS 6, makes it friendly with the iPhone 5

Posted: 24 Sep 2012 02:33 PM PDT

Google updates Chrome app for iOS 6, makes it friendly with the iPhone 5


Google updates Chrome app for iOS 6, makes it friendly with the iPhone 5
Over the next few weeks, we can surely expect iOS developers from all over the globe to start pushing out updates to make their applications better interact with Apple's iOS 6 and that all-new screen found on the iPhone 5. And, because we know some of you choose Chrome over Cupertino's built-in Safari browser, we thought we'd single out the fact that Google has outed a new version of the app which makes it friendly with the new iPhone's larger display as well as the most recent variant of iOS. Aside from the iPhone 5 / iOS 6 compatibility, though, Mountain View also bundled in some undisclosed stability and security improvements in version 21.0.1180.82 (!) of the web browsing application. As is usually the case, you'll find the updated Chrome goods in the App Store -- link for that is just down below.Filed under: Cellphones, Tablets, Software, MobileGoogle updates Chrome app for iOS 6, makes it friendly with the iPhone 5 originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 24 Sep 2012 16:59:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | iTunes (App Store) | Email this | Comments

Amazon App Store Zeroes In On Strengths: Real Goods Purchasing And Recommendations

Posted: 24 Sep 2012 02:00 PM PDT

Amazon App Store Zeroes In On Strengths: Real Goods Purchasing And Recommendations


Amazon App Store Zeroes In On Strengths: Real Goods Purchasing And Recommendations
At just a year of age, Amazon's app store is a relative newcomer against both Google Play and Apple's app store. Yet given Amazon's prowess in e-commerce plus the Seattle-based company's willingness to aggressively court top-tier mobile developers, the store has certainly made itself noticed in the app ecosystem. We caught up with Aaron Rubenson, who has overseen the app store over the last two years as a director, to see how it's evolved over the past year. So first off, Amazon is notoriously private about any of its sales figures, so there are no numbers on total downloads beyond "hundreds of millions" and there no stats on the active installed base of Kindle owners either.

Kid Koala bundles working cardboard gramophone with album, spurs on budding turn...

Posted: 24 Sep 2012 01:59 PM PDT

Kid Koala bundles working cardboard gramophone with album, spurs on budding turntablists (video)


Kid Koala bundles working cardboard gramophone with album, spurs on budding turntablists (video)
If you've been enough of a Kid Koala fan to have heard his original Scratchcratchratchatch mixtape, you'll remember a sample that mentioned building a "finger-powered record player." Kid Koala, also known as Eric San, certainly does -- buy the Limited Edition of his recently launched 12 Bit Blues album and you'll get your own functional, build-it-yourself cardboard gramophone along with a playable disc. The only further requirements are a sewing pin and some hand power. It's cheaper than tracking down the real thing, and a nod both to San's turntablist style as well as the back-to-basics nature of the music. We call it clever and potentially inspiring; just remember that you'll want some proper equipment before you DJ any house parties.Continue reading Kid Koala bundles working cardboard gramophone with album, spurs on budding turntablists (video)Filed under: Misc, Portable Audio/Video, AltKid Koala bundles working cardboard gramophone with album, spurs on budding turntablists (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 24 Sep 2012 16:40:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink PSFK | Ninja Tune, Kid Koala | Email this | Comments

Burger King Japan's 'Premium Kuro Burger' comes with black bun

Posted: 24 Sep 2012 01:59 PM PDT

Burger King Japan's 'Premium Kuro Burger' comes with black bun


Burger King Japan's 'Premium Kuro Burger' comes with black bun
This brings new meaning for those who like their burgers black.

Justin Bieber gifts chrome Fisker Karma to Sean Kingston

Posted: 24 Sep 2012 01:26 PM PDT

Justin Bieber gifts chrome Fisker Karma to Sean Kingston


Justin Bieber gifts chrome Fisker Karma to Sean Kingston
Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Hybrid, Fisker "When you're best friends with one of the biggest artists in the world, you know what I'm saying, you get all different types of gifts, and this is one of them." That's how Jamaican-American rapper Sean Kingston described to random outside-on-the-sidewalk-with-a-camera interviewers the fact that he's now driving the famous chrome Fisker Karma that used to belong to Justin Bieber. Guess all that unwanted attention wasn't exactly something Bieber wanted, even though the two have worked together on multiple songs, including "Eenie Meenie." See Kingston describe the transaction in the video below. More interesting, Kingston told the gathered paparazzi that Bieber will get the "new model" Fisker, which makes it sound like at least one person is anxiously awaiting the Fisker Atlantic.Continue reading Justin Bieber gifts chrome Fisker Karma to Sean KingstonJustin Bieber gifts chrome Fisker Karma to Sean Kingston originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 24 Sep 2012 16:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Gyft for iOS now compatible with Passbook, adds gift cards from more than 200 re...

Posted: 24 Sep 2012 01:26 PM PDT

Gyft for iOS now compatible with Passbook, adds gift cards from more than 200 retailers


Gyft for iOS now compatible with Passbook, adds gift cards from more than 200 retailers
With Apple having recently introduced its novel Passbook feature in the latest version of iOS, it's only natural for app makers to try and take advantage of such miscellaneous hub. With that in mind, Gyft -- a 2012 TechCrunch Disrupt finalist -- has made its application fully compatible with Cupertino's newfangled iOS 6, adding support for the iPhone 5's 4-inch screen and, most importantly, the ability to add gift cards from many retailers to Passbook; some of which include Amazon, Target, Lowe's, GAP, American Eagle and Starbucks. You can grab the Gyft (v1.2) application now directly from your iDevice, or there's always the link below if that makes it slightly easier for you.Filed under: Cellphones, Tablets, SoftwareGyft for iOS now compatible with Passbook, adds gift cards from more than 200 retailers originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 24 Sep 2012 16:20:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink TechCrunch | iTunes (App Store) | Email this | Comments

Marissa Mayer planning to reveal her plans for Yahoo's turnaround tomorrow

Posted: 24 Sep 2012 01:26 PM PDT

Marissa Mayer planning to reveal her plans for Yahoo's turnaround tomorrow


Marissa Mayer planning to reveal her plans for Yahoo's turnaround tomorrow
The first "all hands" meeting of a CEO is always a time for high drama, so we're expecting big things tomorrow. New boss Marissa Mayer is telling employees about her plans to turn around the faded internet giant on Tuesday, with the same slides she used in closed-door board meetings in an act of "radical transparency." Yahoo's fortunes have been on the slide for a while, after Scott Thompson's scandal-ridden departure, patent clashes, security breaches and the sale of its Alibaba stake in order to spend $3.65 billion on quelling a shareholder revolution. A report from AllThingsD says that Mayer's likely to introduce progress and goal tracking as a measure of performance. The new system will run from the company as a whole right down to individual employees, something that she picked up from her tenure at Mountain View. The same report has revealed that Mayer's pushing to improve the consumer experience in its Homepage, Mail and Flickr offerings (amongst others) at the expense of advertising -- a move that'll win her plenty of fans used to the minimalist Google homepage.Filed under: InternetMarissa Mayer planning to reveal her plans for Yahoo's turnaround tomorrow originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 24 Sep 2012 16:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | AllThingsD | Email this | Comments

Editorial: Apple's smart Maps maneuver

Posted: 24 Sep 2012 12:54 PM PDT

Editorial: Apple's smart Maps maneuver


Editorial: Apple's smart Maps maneuver
More Info Nokia stacks up its maps next to Apple's and Google's, politely suggests it comes out on top (update: more detail) Apple says it's 'just getting started' on Maps for iOS 6, are you willing to wait? (poll) MapQuest picks TomTom Maps to power iPhone and Android turn-by-turn navigation apps It might seem as if Apple chose its iOS 6 release last week to practice the biblical directive to love one's enemy. For, by ejecting Google Maps from updated iPads and iPhones, Apple hath caused glorious comparisons to shine upon its foe. If most people were unaware of comparative feature sets and quality aspects that distinguish Google Maps from Apple Maps, every tech-loving person on God's earth is an expert now. The media love a bloodbath, and Joe Nocera led the rhetorical pack by calling Apple Maps an "unmitigated disaster" in a NY Times piece. He wondered whether such calamity would have ensued if Steve Jobs (who called the 1998 "hockey puck" mouse the world's best pointing device) were guiding the company's product evolution. Mr. Nocera argues the Maps replacement as an indicator that Apple has peaked. I argue that replacing Google Maps with Apple Maps was shrewd, inevitable and an indicator that Apple understands the true battle it wages.Continue reading Editorial: Apple's smart Maps maneuverFiled under: Transportation, Wireless, SoftwareEditorial: Apple's smart Maps maneuver originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 24 Sep 2012 15:30:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Verizon has no plans to re-lock iPhone 5's GSM and 3G sides

Posted: 24 Sep 2012 12:54 PM PDT

Verizon has no plans to re-lock iPhone 5's GSM and 3G sides


Verizon has no plans to re-lock iPhone 5's GSM and 3G sides
When we learned that Verizon wouldn't lock the GSM-related components of the iPhone 5, we were waiting for a "gotcha" moment. Surely the carrier would clamp down and steer us back towards its more expensive roaming plans, right? Not according to Verizon spokeswoman Brenda Raney: she says there's no plans to lock Apple's handset at a later point. In other words, you should be free to use a Verizon-locked iPhone 5 on any compatible GSM and HSPA+ networks for as long as you'd like, including with AT&T and Canadian carriers. Of course, this still brings the caveats of having to both buy a Verizon model, either at full price or with a contract attached, and track down a nano-SIM for the carrier of choice. It could nonetheless settle the question of what carrier to pick if you regularly need a passport when you travel -- especially knowing that neither AT&T nor Sprint will be quite so open-minded.Filed under: Cellphones, MobileVerizon has no plans to re-lock iPhone 5's GSM and 3G sides originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 24 Sep 2012 14:58:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | AP | Email this | Comments

Growing Up Geek: Ben Gilbert

Posted: 24 Sep 2012 12:20 PM PDT

Growing Up Geek: Ben Gilbert


Growing Up Geek: Ben Gilbert
Welcome to Growing Up Geek, a feature where we take a look back at our youth, and tell stories of growing up to be the nerds that we are. This week, we have our very own Ben Gilbert! He likes ninja turtles, obviously. To me, being a "geek" about something -- anything, really -- is being super, super passionate about that subject. It's that passion that drew me to documentaries like Helvetica, or King of Kong. It's that passion, witnessed in speeches and conversations with colleagues, that renews my love of video games every year I attend GDC. It's that passion that endears me to people like Stephen King and Trent Reznor. And it's that passion -- that nerdery -- that I've brought to music, journalism, and the medium of video games. But that's always something I took for granted. My father's passion for art meant growing up in a house filled with his incredible paintings. Didn't everyone? My mother's passion for learning meant she had three degrees, including a Ph.D., despite having little financial assistance and coming from another country. Totally normal! My point isn't to brag (though, come on, my parents are basically superheroes), but to say that the concept of being a "geek" was never a foreign one to me. Being an obsessive weirdo was always pretty normal in my family. I mean that in a good way.Continue reading Growing Up Geek: Ben GilbertFiled under: Meta, AltGrowing Up Geek: Ben Gilbert originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 24 Sep 2012 14:25:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Verizon: Our iPhone 5 SIM Slot Will Never Be Carrier Locked

Posted: 24 Sep 2012 12:19 PM PDT

Verizon: Our iPhone 5 SIM Slot Will Never Be Carrier Locked


Verizon: Our iPhone 5 SIM Slot Will Never Be Carrier Locked
Verizon has officially told the AP that the SIM slot on its iPhone 5, which shipped unlocked, won't be re-locked later on, as was the case with the initial shipment of Sprint iPhone 4S devices sold last year. That means that Verizon iPhone 5 owners can effectively use their devices with any GSM carriers around the world, including AT&T in the U.S.

Apple TV update 5.1 brings shared photo streams and iTunes account swapping, ava...

Posted: 24 Sep 2012 11:45 AM PDT

Apple TV update 5.1 brings shared photo streams and iTunes account swapping, available now


Apple TV update 5.1 brings shared photo streams and iTunes account swapping, available now
Apple TVs of the second and third-gen variety are getting update 5.1 today, which brings two long-awaited features. Both shared photo streaming and iTunes account switching are now part of Apple's set-top box -- the combination of those two finally freeing parents from the potential nightmare of discovering their child's "not safe for parents" photo streams, of course. The update, spotted by MacRumors, also adds some new AirPlay functionality, enabling users to "send audio content from Apple TV to AirPlay-enabled speakers and devices (including AirPort Express and other Apple TVs)." Beyond those two biggies, however, the rest of the update is rather nuts and bolts oriented -- head below for the full list.Continue reading Apple TV update 5.1 brings shared photo streams and iTunes account swapping, available nowFiled under: Household, Software, HDApple TV update 5.1 brings shared photo streams and iTunes account swapping, available now originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 24 Sep 2012 14:12:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink MacRumors, The Next Web | Apple | Email this | Comments

Sony Xperia Tablet S review: Sony's second-gen Android slate has a slimmer desig...

Posted: 24 Sep 2012 11:12 AM PDT

Sony Xperia Tablet S review: Sony's second-gen Android slate has a slimmer design, faster guts


Sony Xperia Tablet S review: Sony's second-gen Android slate has a slimmer design, faster guts
More Info Sony Xperia Tablet S official Sony Xperia Tablet S hands-on Sony's Xperia Tablet S gets the full tear-down For Sony, it's all about the presentation. To be sure, since the company put all of its mobile products under one roof, it's achieved more of a balance between style and substance than it did with the original Tablet S and Tablet P -- two devices that had a lopsided emphasis on unique, proof-of-concept designs over user experience. It's fair to say those initial tablet efforts failed to resonate with consumers, leaving the company with little recourse other than an all-out do-over. Which is why the new Xperia Tablet S has a lot to prove: it can't get by based on looks alone. Running skinned Ice Cream Sandwich and packing a quad-core Tegra 3 SoC, this 9.4-incher maintains the same 1,280 x 800 IPS LCD panel used on the first-gen S, and even assumes the same folded-over magazine shape -- albeit, in thinner form. Yes, that full SD slot remains, but you might not need to rely on it now that the tablet comes with up to 64GB of built-in storage. So, will an emphasis on OS, ecosystem (Video Unlimited, Music Unlimited, Crackle, Reader, etc.) and a slimmed-down build make up for the blunders of the first-gen Tablet S? Will a $399 starting price help this WiFi-only tab stand out amongst the Android competition? Stick around as we find out whether this S is more than initially meets the eye.Gallery: Sony Xperia Tablet S reviewContinue reading Sony Xperia Tablet S review: Sony's second-gen Android slate has a slimmer design, faster gutsFiled under: TabletsSony Xperia Tablet S review: Sony's second-gen Android slate has a slimmer design, faster guts originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 24 Sep 2012 14:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Toyota builds assistive robot to help the disabled around the home

Posted: 24 Sep 2012 10:34 AM PDT

Toyota builds assistive robot to help the disabled around the home


Toyota builds assistive robot to help the disabled around the home
Toyota has built the Human Support Robot, a 70 pound 'droid designed to help the elderly and less-able around the home. The tablet-and-voice-controlled unit can open your curtains, fetch items and even pick up after you, thanks to its single telescopic arm that stretches up to 2.5 feet. A tablet slot on top of its head lets you use the hardware as a telepresence device, although we're more interested in teaching it some attitude so we can live out our "sassy housekeeper" sitcom fantasies in peace.Filed under: RobotsToyota builds assistive robot to help the disabled around the home originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 24 Sep 2012 13:33:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink The Verge, Gizmag | Toyota (Translated), Zaikei | Email this | Comments

Toyota plans dialed-back launch of eQ and iQ EV city cars in December

Posted: 24 Sep 2012 10:34 AM PDT

Toyota plans dialed-back launch of eQ and iQ EV city cars in December


Toyota plans dialed-back launch of eQ and iQ EV city cars in December
Toyota's just-arrived RAV4 EV will soon get a much smaller cousin -- albeit a very elusive one. An electric version of the iQ city car will arrive in Japan (as the eQ) and the US (as the iQ EV) this December, but the automaker is significantly scaling back its 2010 promises of several thousand cars sold per year to just 100 fleet-oriented vehicles. The charging times, costs and range of EVs "do not meet society's needs," vice chairman Takeshi Uchiyamada says to explain the smaller ambitions. It's easy to understand the cautious approach after seeing the car's final details. While they're not out of line with the specs of other EVs, the eQ's 3-hour fast charge, 62-mile range and ¥3.6 million ($46,130) price wouldn't have regular customers flocking to dealerships. Most of Toyota's energy is instead being funneled into its tried-and-true hybrids, with 21 due on the market by 2015, as well as plans to deliver the company's first hydrogen fuel cell car by the same year. Eco-conscious drivers may be disappointed that Toyota isn't moving as aggressively into a pure electric realm as some of its rivals, but we'd rather see smartly planned baby steps than an overly risky plunge.Filed under: TransportationToyota plans dialed-back launch of eQ and iQ EV city cars in December originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 24 Sep 2012 13:17:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink Reuters | Toyota (PDF, translated) | Email this | Comments

Coda ready to increase production, sales in 2013

Posted: 24 Sep 2012 10:10 AM PDT

Coda ready to increase production, sales in 2013


Coda ready to increase production, sales in 2013
Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Coda Automotive Could it be possible that around one in seven of the non-luxury electric vehicles sold in the U.S. will be made by Los Angeles-based startup Coda Automotive? That's what CEO Phil Murtaugh told Plug In Cars recently, despite the fact that the company has delivered a mere 100 Coda Sedans to the general public. Murtaugh said he hoped Coda would eventually account for at least 15 percent of non-luxury (read: non-Tesla) electric vehicle sales, adding that about 1,000 more cars have been ordered. He called the period from March, when the Coda Sedan went on sale, through July a "soft launch." Murtaugh recently made similar claims of sales growth in an interview with Bloomberg News, saying that the company planned to broaden its U.S. dealership network to about 30 next year, including locations in Oregon and Florida. While the Coda Sedan has been rated by the EPA to have a single-charge range of 88 miles - 15 miles more than the Nissan Leaf - it's also about $2,000 more expensive. Coda opened its LA headquarters late last year and is said to have raised more than $300 million in private funding.Coda ready to increase production, sales in 2013 originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 24 Sep 2012 12:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Engadget visits Nokia House, walks down memory lane (video)

Posted: 24 Sep 2012 10:10 AM PDT

Engadget visits Nokia House, walks down memory lane (video)


Engadget visits Nokia House, walks down memory lane (video)
It's not the first time Engadget editors have stepped foot at Nokia House -- the company's HQ in Espoo, Finland -- but it's always a treat, and our visit this week is no exception. Today we took a walk down memory lane, and spent some time with several Nokia handsets -- from one of the very first mobile phones to the Lumia 920. We played with some of the more iconic models and designs, such as the 1011 (first GSM handset), 7700 / 7710 (S90), 7280 (lipstick phone), 770 tablet, N-Gage / QD, 8800, 8110 (from the Matrix movie), N93 / N93i, N91, N92, N76, N95 and finally the 7650 (the first handset running Symbian). In addition, we also got to handle some of the Lumia 820 and 920 accessories, including the Fatboy wireless charging pillow and JBL-branded Power Up speakers. Check out the gallery below then hit the break for our hands-on video. Oh, and don't forget to tune in tomorrow for our live Q&A with Nokia's CEO Stephen Elop. Update: That music-centric handset which uses an IBM Microdrive is the N91 (not N90) and was announced in 2005 (not 1995), and that flip-phone wa steh N76 (not the N75) -- sorry for the slip in the video.Gallery: Nokia House tour Zach Honig contributed to this report.Continue reading Engadget visits Nokia House, walks down memory lane (video)Filed under: Cellphones, MobileEngadget visits Nokia House, walks down memory lane (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 24 Sep 2012 13:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Google Toying With A New Hangout UI With Bigger Icons, Pointing To A Touchscreen...

Posted: 24 Sep 2012 10:09 AM PDT

Google Toying With A New Hangout UI With Bigger Icons, Pointing To A Touchscreen-Friendly Interface


Google Toying With A New Hangout UI With Bigger Icons, Pointing To A Touchscreen-Friendly Interface
Google has been sprucing up its Hangouts video calling service with an updated API for features like private messages, and the ability to block people and change a Hangout from private to public. A video celebrating Hangouts gives us a glimpse of even more changes that could be coming up ahead. Specifically, a vertical, icon-based menu bar in the left column; and the removal of the menu bar at the top of the screen -- simplifying moves that could point to a more touchscreen-friendly version of Hangouts in the future.

Slickdeals' best in tech for September 24th: Dell UltraSharp display, 50-inch LG...

Posted: 24 Sep 2012 10:08 AM PDT

Slickdeals' best in tech for September 24th: Dell UltraSharp display, 50-inch LG HDTV and a Canon Rebel T3 bundle


Slickdeals' best in tech for September 24th: Dell UltraSharp display, 50-inch LG HDTV and a Canon Rebel T3 bundle
Looking to save some coin on your tech purchases? Of course you are! In this round-up, we'll run down a list of the freshest frugal buys, hand-picked with the help of the folks at Slickdeals. You'll want to act fast, though, as many of these offerings won't stick around long. Sometimes your gadget needs are a bit more diverse. For those who are in need of devices that do more than enhance your current computer, this round of links may be just what you're looking for. From living room speakers to a 50-inch plasma HDTV, there's a duo that could make football season more enjoyable. If you're home entertainment setup is already covered, perhaps a new 24-inch display or a digital SLR kit could get some use in your arsenal. Enough with the chatter, though, head on past the break to take a look -- but keep a careful eye on those discount codes and rebates.Continue reading Slickdeals' best in tech for September 24th: Dell UltraSharp display, 50-inch LG HDTV and a Canon Rebel T3 bundleFiled under: Cameras, Displays, Home Entertainment, PeripheralsSlickdeals' best in tech for September 24th: Dell UltraSharp display, 50-inch LG HDTV and a Canon Rebel T3 bundle originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 24 Sep 2012 12:45:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Slickdeals | Email this | Comments

The extremes of technology customer service: how common sense and empathy create...

Posted: 24 Sep 2012 10:05 AM PDT

The extremes of technology customer service: how common sense and empathy create unmatched loyalty


The extremes of technology customer service: how common sense and empathy create unmatched loyalty
Allow me to explain how two discussions started off in very similar ways, and ended... shall we say, differently. This is me, attempting to muster any sort of pleasantness in my voice at some ungodly hour of the morning on a Google Voice connection from Dubai back to the US: "Hey! I'm having to cut a trip short due to an emergency back home. I actually purchased a trip protection plan when I checked out online -- would it be possible to provide a refund for this flight now that I need to cancel it?" From here, I was told that this was too vague. That I would need medical proof of an injury or illness, and that if it were a pre-existing condition -- something like reoccurring cancer -- that simply wouldn't do. Oh, and if it's a home emergency, you'll need proof from your home insurance company that your abode is "uninhabitable." "So... I'm basically hosed here? This trip protection plan doesn't really protect very much, does it?" "... Do you want to file the claim?" "No. That's okay. Thanks for your time." It doesn't have to be this way.Continue reading The extremes of technology customer service: how common sense and empathy create unmatched loyaltyFiled under: MiscThe extremes of technology customer service: how common sense and empathy create unmatched loyalty originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 24 Sep 2012 12:20:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Engadget Live: Join us at 4AM ET for an 'ask me anything' Q&A with Nokia CEO Ste...

Posted: 24 Sep 2012 09:16 AM PDT

Engadget Live: Join us at 4AM ET for an 'ask me anything' Q&A with Nokia CEO Stephen Elop!


Engadget Live: Join us at 4AM ET for an 'ask me anything' Q&A with Nokia CEO Stephen Elop!
You may have since forgotten, but today was the original kick-off day for Nokia World 2012. With the big show canceled and the devices already launched, we instead opted to drop by the smartphone maker's headquarters just outside Helsinki. We're spending three days here in Finland, meeting with executives to get an inside look at the company's next-generation smartphone lineup. Our first face-to-face is with Nokia's chief executive himself, Stephen Elop, who has generously offered up 30 minutes to answer your questions. Because of the time constraints, we won't be able to accommodate every request, but we'll certainly do our best. There are two ways to submit your questions: leave a comment below, or you can send us a tweet @EngadgetLive -- once the session begins, we'll only be able to accept messages through Twitter, and you're welcome to ask questions before we start and as a follow-up to Stephen's responses, as well. In order to accommodate the largest possible audience, we'll be using our liveblog tool to post both questions and answers, so bookmark this page and hop on over there at 4AM Eastern tomorrow. As always, you'll also find the local time just below. Now about those questions... September 25, 2012 4:00 AM EDTFiled under: Cellphones, MobileEngadget Live: Join us at 4AM ET for an 'ask me anything' Q&A with Nokia CEO Stephen Elop! originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 24 Sep 2012 12:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Sprint brings LTE to parts of Kansas, Illinois and Massachusetts

Posted: 24 Sep 2012 08:41 AM PDT

Sprint brings LTE to parts of Kansas, Illinois and Massachusetts


Sprint brings LTE to parts of Kansas, Illinois and Massachusetts
Has anyone else noticed a surge in locations getting newly-minted LTE of late? Sprint has, and it's joining the bandwagon with a further five areas from today. Users in Lawrence, Topeka and Wichita in Kansas, Waukegan-Lake in Illinois and Barnstable-Hyannis in Massachusetts will be able to slurp down Big Yellow's new service soon, if they can't already. The company has also revealed that Chicagoans, Angelenos and New Yorkers will be getting 3G service thanks to the company's Network Vision program, as it continues to swap out its aging Nextel hardware for something a little more futuristic.Continue reading Sprint brings LTE to parts of Kansas, Illinois and MassachusettsFiled under: Cellphones, Wireless, MobileSprint brings LTE to parts of Kansas, Illinois and Massachusetts originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 24 Sep 2012 11:33:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Video catches car flipped over by downed power cables

Posted: 24 Sep 2012 08:41 AM PDT

Video catches car flipped over by downed power cables


Video catches car flipped over by downed power cables
Incredible, unintentional stunt.

MAN unveils super-streamlined semi truck

Posted: 24 Sep 2012 08:41 AM PDT

MAN unveils super-streamlined semi truck


MAN unveils super-streamlined semi truck
This gives the phrase "Keep on Truckin'" a whole new meaning.

Engadget Giveaway: win a Nexus 7, courtesy of Amzer!

Posted: 24 Sep 2012 08:08 AM PDT

Engadget Giveaway: win a Nexus 7, courtesy of Amzer!


Engadget Giveaway: win a Nexus 7, courtesy of Amzer!
We can't get enough of the Nexus 7, and we'll wager that you feel the same way. That's why we're teaming up with Amzer to hook you up with another chance to win one of Google's signature tablets. If the name doesn't ring a bell, Amzer sells cases for nearly every phone and tablet available on the market, but today it's promoting ShatterProof, a screen protector that's certified to be resistant to scratches, stress and drops. So feel free to leave a comment below to enter and then head over to the company's Twitter or Facebook accounts (linked below) to express your undying gratitude for the opportunity.Continue reading Engadget Giveaway: win a Nexus 7, courtesy of Amzer!Filed under: Announcements, HD, Mobile, AltEngadget Giveaway: win a Nexus 7, courtesy of Amzer! originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 24 Sep 2012 11:01:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Microsoft deliberately wasted energy at data center to avoid fine, says NY Times

Posted: 24 Sep 2012 08:08 AM PDT

Microsoft deliberately wasted energy at data center to avoid fine, says NY Times


Microsoft deliberately wasted energy at data center to avoid fine, says NY Times
Microsoft's desire to avoid a fine combined with a power company's strict electricity usage rules resulted in the software giant deliberately wasting millions of watts of power, according to the New York Times. Redmond's Quincy data center, which houses Bing, Hotmail and other cloud-based servers, had an agreement in place with a Washington state utility containing clauses which imposed penalties for under-consumption of electricity. A $210,000 fine was levied last year, since the facility was well below its power-use target, which prompted Microsoft to deliberately burn $70,000 worth of electricity in three days "in a commercially unproductive manner" to avoid it, according to its own documents. The utility board capitulated and reduced the amend to $60k, but the messy situation seems a far cry from Redmond's pledge to become carbon neutral by this summer. [Image credit: New York Times]Filed under: Misc, AltMicrosoft deliberately wasted energy at data center to avoid fine, says NY Times originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 24 Sep 2012 10:44:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink The Verge | New York Times | Email this | Comments