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Saturday, September 29, 2012

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Hard drive shipments recover from floods in Thailand, expected to reach record high

Posted: 29 Sep 2012 02:30 PM PDT

Hard drive shipments recover from floods in Thailand, expected to reach record high


Hard drive shipments recover from floods in Thailand, expected to reach record high
Last year's floods in Thailand caused hard drive shortages after wreaking havoc on a number of electronics manufacturers, but new stats from IHS iSuppli indicate that the HDD market for PCs has fully recovered and is poised to hit an all time high. The firm expects 524 million units for internal use in PCs to ship this year, besting the previous record by 4.3 percent. What's giving the recovery an added boost? According to the analytics group, the extra demand comes courtesy of Windows 8 and Ultrabooks. Unfortunately for deal hounds, the company noted in a report earlier this year that prices aren't expected to dip below the pre-flood range until 2014. If IHS iSuppli projections hold true, total annual hard drive shipments could reach 575.1 million by 2016.Filed under: StorageHard drive shipments recover from floods in Thailand, expected to reach record high originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 29 Sep 2012 16:48:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink Computerworld | IHS iSuppli | Email this | Comments

Lexus Eco Challenge entices teens with $500,000 in grants, scholarships

Posted: 29 Sep 2012 01:57 PM PDT

Lexus Eco Challenge entices teens with $500,000 in grants, scholarships


Lexus Eco Challenge entices teens with $500,000 in grants, scholarships
Filed under: Green Culture, Hybrid, Lexus The sixth annual Lexus Eco Challenge has launched, giving young students a shot at winning part of $500,000 in grants and scholarships. More than 22,000 middle school and high school students have been included in past programs, where more than $3.5 million has been awarded to students, teachers and schools. Last year, for example, Lexington, KY's "One-Towel Wonders" team was a grand prize winner by showing how big an impact using just one towel per person per week could have on the environment. Part of the program is based on providing teachers with standards-based supplementary educational materials to teach students about the environment. The second part, which we suspect students can get more excited about, is a competition that rewards action through environmental team challenges. Each of the challenges will have 16 winning teams - eight middle school and eight high school teams. The winning teams will each receive $10,000 in scholarships and grants to be shared among the students, teacher and school. For each of the challenges, teams define an environmental issue that is important to them, develop an action plan to address the issue, implement the plan, and report the results. Submission deadlines for Challenge #1 (land/water) is October 29, 2012 and, for Challenge #2 (air/climate), December 17, 2012. What do Lexus and parent company Toyota get out of it? The Lexus Eco Challenge is part of The Lexus Pursuit of Potential, a philanthropic initiative that generates up to $3 million in donations each year for organizations that help build, shape and improve children's lives, the company says. Marketing low-emission hybrid vehicles to GenY doesn't hurt, either. Lexus has been right behind Toyota in making and marketing hybrids, and has five of these models in its product lineup.Continue reading Lexus Eco Challenge entices teens with $500,000 in grants, scholarshipsLexus Eco Challenge entices teens with $500,000 in grants, scholarships originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Sat, 29 Sep 2012 16:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Facebook Updates Messenger For iOS With New Chat UI, iOS 6 And iPhone 5 Support

Posted: 29 Sep 2012 12:52 PM PDT

Facebook Updates Messenger For iOS With New Chat UI, iOS 6 And iPhone 5 Support


Facebook Updates Messenger For iOS With New Chat UI, iOS 6 And iPhone 5 Support
Facebook just launched a new version of its Messenger app for iOS. Messenger, the company's stand-alone chat app, got a bit of a user interface refresh with this update, as well as a speed boost and official support for iOS 6 and the iPhone 5's larger display. Today's update comes just a bit more than a week after Facebook also launched an update to its Messenger app for Android and, for the most part, this update brings the iOS app's design on par with the Android app.

Cubify lets you skin, 3D print your own personal Android

Posted: 29 Sep 2012 12:15 PM PDT

Cubify lets you skin, 3D print your own personal Android


Cubify lets you skin, 3D print your own personal Android
Sick of letting everyone else skin your Android for you? 3D printing service Cubify is helping you fight back with Bugdroids, a customizable version of Google's lovable green mascot. You can change its colors, add accessories like hats, horns glasses, mustaches and bling (that's "bling," not Bing, mind), and then the service will 3D print one out and ship it to you -- well, after you drop an admittedly pricey $30 to $40, figurine size depending.Filed under: Peripherals, GoogleCubify lets you skin, 3D print your own personal Android originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 29 Sep 2012 15:03:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Cubify (Blog), (Store) | Email this | Comments

Facebook Messenger 2.0 for iPhone brings new design to conversations, swipe left...

Posted: 29 Sep 2012 11:05 AM PDT

Facebook Messenger 2.0 for iPhone brings new design to conversations, swipe left for friends list


Facebook Messenger 2.0 for iPhone brings new design to conversations, swipe left for friends list
Facebook debuted the new look of its dedicated Messenger app on Android last week and and just as promised, now it's available on the iPhone as well. Facebook Messenger 2.0 brings a new SMS-style bubble layout to conversations, a swipe left gesture to reveal one's friends list and the ability to push the friends you message most to the top of the list. As mentioned along with the Android update this is a part of a new release schedule cycle that should see updates arriving every 4 - 8 weeks. That means you can mark your calendar for the next refresh if this is your social network of choice, but for now just grab the latest version from iTunes.Filed under: Cellphones, Software, MobileFacebook Messenger 2.0 for iPhone brings new design to conversations, swipe left for friends list originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 29 Sep 2012 13:41:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | iTunes | Email this | Comments

US Cellular expands its Windows Phone catalog with the ZTE Render for $80

Posted: 29 Sep 2012 09:28 AM PDT

US Cellular expands its Windows Phone catalog with the ZTE Render for $80


US Cellular expands its Windows Phone catalog with the ZTE Render for $80
Most Windows Phone enthusiasts have their sights set on large trophy-like targets, but if you have more modest goals in mind, then US Cellular's latest acquisition might be just what the doctor ordered. If the device pictured above looks familiar, that's because it should. Rebranded as the Render, most of you know this handset as the ZTE Orbit, an entry-level device that features a 4-inch 800 x 480 display, a 1GHz Qualcomm processor, 512MB of RAM, 4GB of internal storage, a 5-megapixel camera and Windows Phone 7.5 Tango. So, if US Cellular is your wireless carrier of choice and you're seriously crushing on Windows Phone, the ZTE Render will run you $80 after a $100 mail-in rebate.Filed under: Cellphones, MobileUS Cellular expands its Windows Phone catalog with the ZTE Render for $80 originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 29 Sep 2012 12:13:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink WPCentral | US Cellular | Email this | Comments

GM recalling 40,859 cars for potential fuel leaks

Posted: 29 Sep 2012 08:53 AM PDT

GM recalling 40,859 cars for potential fuel leaks


GM recalling 40,859 cars for potential fuel leaks
General Motors is recalling more than 40,000 cars because a plastic part might crack and cause a fuel leak.

Modbook Pro to launch with SSD storage, up for pre-order October 3rd

Posted: 29 Sep 2012 07:40 AM PDT

Modbook Pro to launch with SSD storage, up for pre-order October 3rd


Modbook Pro to launch with SSD storage, up for pre-order October 3rd
It wasn't all that long ago that Modbook Inc's CEO, Andreas Haas, made the mac-in-tablet Modbook Pro official, now we're learning that the super-slate will launch with high performance SSD storage. So, as you wield your MacBook Pro come tablet, you'll be free from spinning disks. Great, but what impact will this have on capacity? Well, according to the firm, storage will start at 64GB as standard, with upgrades possible all the way up to a, not-unreasonable, 480GB. Pre-orders go live on October 3rd, along with the all important reveal on price. Regardless of cost, if that void between the iPad and full-fat Windows 8 slates had been irking you, here's your answer.Continue reading Modbook Pro to launch with SSD storage, up for pre-order October 3rdFiled under: Tablets, AppleModbook Pro to launch with SSD storage, up for pre-order October 3rd originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 29 Sep 2012 10:23:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

4 Good ways to get rid of mosquitoes in your yard

Posted: 29 Sep 2012 06:33 AM PDT

4 Good ways to get rid of mosquitoes in your yard


4 Good ways to get rid of mosquitoes in your yard
Stay safe from West Nile virus and put an end to irksome itches with these tools and methods for a porch, patio or yard.

France wants top EV spot but faces hurdles seen 'round the world

Posted: 29 Sep 2012 06:00 AM PDT

France wants top EV spot but faces hurdles seen 'round the world


France wants top EV spot but faces hurdles seen 'round the world
Filed under: Emerging Technologies, EV/Plug-in, Legislation and Policy, Renault, Citroen, Peugeot, Europe/EU French Minister of Industrial Renewal Amaud Montebourg wants his nation to be considered the world's electric-vehicle leader. "France can guide the electric revolution. We want electric vehicles to be for everyone," he said during the recent welcome-home ceremony for the Citroen C-Zero driving team that finished an eight month, 15,535 mile road trip on $300 worth of electricity, the Electric Odyssey. Montebourg's pronouncement was made on the eve of the Paris Motor Show, where French automakers are ready to show off displays of electric vehicles. Renault is showing its full lineup of Zoe, Twizy, Kangoo and Fluence EVs. Citroen is displaying its DS3 electric concept car and its C-Zero. Peugeot will show the iOn, sister to the C-Zero and Mitsubishi iMiEV. Two startup makers will also show their wares - Mia is displaying small EVS and Courb will bring its C-Zen. Government incentives are available to move this vision forward. For example, there is a $9,100 tax credit available for the Renault Zoe, which brings the price down to the level of the Renault Clio or Peugot 208, Montebourg said. The question the French government and auto industry needs to have answered is similar to other locales, such as California and Washington, D.C.: what will it for EVs to take root? The Ministry of Industry Renewal will be announcing increased consumer incentives to buy EVs, including free parking, free passage on urban toll roads and financial aid for installing recharging stations. The French government is following a similar path as the state of California, having pushed for the technology in the 1990s. Back then, in France, Peugeot-Citroen and Renault converted 10,000 small cars to electric power before the experiment petered out. Limited range from lead-acid batteries, high prices and lack of charging stifled the plug-in revolution. Now, with the tax credit making these cars more attractive to consumers, it looks like charging infrastructure remains the largest hurdle. The government is pushing for infrastructure development through various methods, such as meeting with local governments to assist with the installation of public charging stations and changing regulations on underground parking garages in apartment complexes to make installations viable. One of the hurdles for infrastructure development is deciding on what type of plug to use for fast charging. The government has committed to making its decision in the next few months, even though the plug-in industry doesn't know itself. A second problem is starting up fees for charging, when people were used to free public charging.France wants top EV spot but faces hurdles seen 'round the world originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Sat, 29 Sep 2012 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

BlackBerry 10 L-series tutorial videos surface online, give a literal peek at th...

Posted: 29 Sep 2012 06:00 AM PDT

BlackBerry 10 L-series tutorial videos surface online, give a literal peek at the future (video)


BlackBerry 10 L-series tutorial videos surface online, give a literal peek at the future (video)
Those of us who've used a BlackBerry PlayBook will be familiar with the inevitable first-boot tutorials showing how to navigate the swipe-driven interface before we're let loose. Thanks to a series of demonstration videos leaked by BlackBerryItalia, it's apparent that we won't escape that educational process on BlackBerry 10 devices, either. The four clips show the basics of what we know the gesture experience will be like on full-touch L-series phones, including the signature BlackBerry Peek to check notifications and the unified inbox. Anyone looking for a direct clue as to what production BlackBerry 10 hardware will entail might be frustrated, mind you -- the rendered phone appears to be a placeholder rather than the L-series or a Dev Alpha B, and the device name is censored in an attempt to protect the source. That said, the clips provide a very straightforward explanation of the new interface concept and give us one more indication that RIM is closer to launch.Continue reading BlackBerry 10 L-series tutorial videos surface online, give a literal peek at the future (video)Filed under: Cellphones, Mobile, RIMBlackBerry 10 L-series tutorial videos surface online, give a literal peek at the future (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 29 Sep 2012 08:38:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink CrackBerry | BlackBerryItalia (translated) | Email this | Comments

Logitech promises continued support for Squeezebox, says it won't force a switch...

Posted: 29 Sep 2012 04:47 AM PDT

Logitech promises continued support for Squeezebox, says it won't force a switch to UE Smart Radio


Logitech promises continued support for Squeezebox, says it won't force a switch to UE Smart Radio
With Logitech's Squeezebox platform having quietly and unexpectedly reached its EOL status, the company found it necessary to let its customers know where they stand going forward. In a very detailed letter from UE product director Ariel Fischer, the Harmony maker reassured current Squeezebox owners it will continue to offer support for these products, adding that the current "mysqueezebox" website and certain apps will still work with existing devices. What's more, those who managed to snag one of those Squeezebox Radios will have the option to upgrade to the outfit's new UE Smart Radio service -- which, according to Logitech, can play nicely alongside existing Squeezebox products, though this "will operate and be controlled separately." All in all, it could be worse -- and, in age where customer service can sometimes be rather unpleasant, we're sure most of us can appreciate the transparency being shown in the open letter. Speaking of which, you'll find that at the source link below.Filed under: Misc, Portable Audio/Video, SoftwareLogitech promises continued support for Squeezebox, says it won't force a switch to UE Smart Radio originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 29 Sep 2012 06:56:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Logitech | Email this | Comments

10 low-sodium substitutes

Posted: 29 Sep 2012 03:37 AM PDT

10 low-sodium substitutes


10 low-sodium substitutes
Easy and healthy ways to replace the sodium in your diet without doing away with flavor.

Scape, Brian Eno's new ambient music creation app is now available on the iPad (...

Posted: 29 Sep 2012 02:31 AM PDT

Scape, Brian Eno's new ambient music creation app is now available on the iPad (video)


Scape, Brian Eno's new ambient music creation app is now available on the iPad (video)
Music making apps for the iPad are ten-a-penny, but when it's the brainchild of a super-producer like Brian Eno, you have to take notice. Scape is the third of his collaborations with Peter Chilvers after Bloom and Trope, an app that lets you generate ambient music with Eno's own sounds on a colorful, conceptual interface. Unlike standard beats'n'loops setups, each sound is tied to a series of rules -- including the time of day -- that ensures the tunes you create never play the same way twice. It's available from iTunes for $5.99 / £3.99, and who knows, maybe in a few years time, Coldplay'll come calling for your professional expertise.Continue reading Scape, Brian Eno's new ambient music creation app is now available on the iPad (video)Filed under: Portable Audio/Video, Tablets, Software, AltScape, Brian Eno's new ambient music creation app is now available on the iPad (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 29 Sep 2012 05:11:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink The Guardian, Wired | iTunes | Email this | Comments

Touch Bionics releases new prosthetic fingers, flip the old ones the bird

Posted: 29 Sep 2012 12:41 AM PDT

Touch Bionics releases new prosthetic fingers, flip the old ones the bird


Touch Bionics releases new prosthetic fingers, flip the old ones the bird
The only upgrades available for our puny human hands are gaming controller calluses, but if you're sporting an i-LIMB digits hand prosthesis, you can now grab a set of improved fingers. Touch Bionics' "smaller, lighter and more anatomically accurate" appendages are now available worldwide, as well as a new wrist-band unit which houses all the necessary computing power and juice for their function. Best of all, these developments allow more people to adopt the tech than the previous generation, including those with more petite hands or finger amputations closer to the knuckle. We don't know how much it'll cost for a fresh set, but we'll let health agencies and insurance companies deal with that part. With these upgrades and RSL Steeper's latest offering, it won't be long before our flesh-based variants are meager in comparison.Continue reading Touch Bionics releases new prosthetic fingers, flip the old ones the birdFiled under: Misc, Robots, WearablesTouch Bionics releases new prosthetic fingers, flip the old ones the bird originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 29 Sep 2012 03:26:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Sony starts delivering Ice Cream Sandwich update to Xperia go, Xperia U and Xper...

Posted: 28 Sep 2012 11:03 PM PDT

Sony starts delivering Ice Cream Sandwich update to Xperia go, Xperia U and Xperia sola


Sony starts delivering Ice Cream Sandwich update to Xperia go, Xperia U and Xperia sola
Well, it looks like Sony's in-house software developers have decided this is the perfect week to deliver delicious treats to a large portion of the company's mobile lineup. Not long after outing updates for the Tablet S and Xperia Ion (in the US), the electronics giant is now bringing Ice Cream Sandwich to handsets such as the Xperia go, Xperia U and Xperia sola. The refresh itself brings a slew of novel traits to the trio of Xperia slabs, including a "new way to experience" music, photos and video, improvements to the lockscreen, the ability to resize widgets and the addition of a "multitasking" button. While the standout features remain the same across the board, the Xperia sola does get an added bonus in the form of a so-called, self-explanatory glove mode -- which is made possible by the device's "floating touch" technology. Sony does note that availability of the 4.0 upgrade will vary by market and, not surprisingly, carrier requirements. Let's just hope you get to enjoy the changes soon.Continue reading Sony starts delivering Ice Cream Sandwich update to Xperia go, Xperia U and Xperia solaFiled under: Cellphones, Software, Mobile, SonySony starts delivering Ice Cream Sandwich update to Xperia go, Xperia U and Xperia sola originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 29 Sep 2012 01:41:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Sony (1), (2) | Email this | Comments

14 Hot Rides From Paris

Posted: 28 Sep 2012 10:31 PM PDT

14 Hot Rides From Paris


14 Hot Rides From Paris
This show's themes: legacy projects and — surprisingly — wagons.

Xi3 goes the crowdfunding route for future X3A, X7A modular PCs (video)

Posted: 28 Sep 2012 10:31 PM PDT

Xi3 goes the crowdfunding route for future X3A, X7A modular PCs (video)


Xi3 goes the crowdfunding route for future X3A, X7A modular PCs (video)
Xi3 has been one of the more inventive PC builders in the field, designing its Modular Computers in the belief that small, more upgradable desktops are the way of the future. The company is planning two new systems to further that dream, the X3A and X7A, but it wants our help: it's running a Kickstarter funding drive until October 28th to assist the development and garner some early adopters. Put down $503 or $603 and you'll get the entry-level X3A, a dual-core 1.65GHz (likely AMD E-450-based) PC with 4GB of RAM, a 32GB SSD and either Linux or Windows installed; splurge with $1,103 or more and you'll get the more performance-driven X7A, which jumps to a quad-core chip with a 3.2GHz peak speed, a Windows-loaded 64GB SSD and faster graphics. Assuming Xi3 makes its target, we should see the X3A and X7A arrive in January and February respectively, with Kickstarter supporters beating the larger herd by a week. Even existing owners are accounted for through a Primary I/O Board upgrade, due before the end of this year, that carries more Ethernet and USB 3.0 ports. Crowdfunding is an unusual approach to buying that next PC, without the certainties of shopping at an online store -- but we're also dealing with an unusual PC from the get-go.Continue reading Xi3 goes the crowdfunding route for future X3A, X7A modular PCs (video)Filed under: DesktopsXi3 goes the crowdfunding route for future X3A, X7A modular PCs (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 28 Sep 2012 23:59:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Kickstarter | Email this | Comments

PBS draws link between digital music ethics and magic spells, somehow makes it l...

Posted: 28 Sep 2012 07:42 PM PDT

PBS draws link between digital music ethics and magic spells, somehow makes it look simple (video)


PBS draws link between digital music ethics and magic spells, somehow makes it look simple (video)
AAC files and the arcane don't have much in common on the surface. After some digging, however, PBS' Idea Channel has found that magic is an uncannily good analogy for digital music rights and explaining the thorny ethical issues that come with them. Both music and spells stem from grassroots cultures that give away their content for free, but (at least until an anti-magic clampdown at eBay) have since become businesses. That nature poses a key ethical question: when we're used to a free experience and can copy songs or spells as much as we like, what does it take to keep us as honest customers? As show host Mike Rugnetta suggests, it's a matter of personal responsibility -- if we want more of either, we have to think of the commerce as showing support for future work. You can catch Mike's clever train of thought after the break, and ponder what constitutes DRM for a potion while you're at it.Continue reading PBS draws link between digital music ethics and magic spells, somehow makes it look simple (video)Filed under: Portable Audio/Video, Internet, AltPBS draws link between digital music ethics and magic spells, somehow makes it look simple (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 28 Sep 2012 22:32:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | PBS (YouTube) | Email this | Comments

FCC votes in favor of rethinking spectrum holding rules, goading broadcasters in...

Posted: 28 Sep 2012 07:10 PM PDT

FCC votes in favor of rethinking spectrum holding rules, goading broadcasters into wireless selloffs


FCC votes in favor of rethinking spectrum holding rules, goading broadcasters into wireless selloffs
FCC meetings can be momentous occasions under the right circumstances, although it's seldom the case that we see the agency pass two potentially far-reaching measures in one sitting, like we just saw on Friday. To start, regulators have voted in favor of a proposal that will review spectrum sale rules and might drop the case-by-case determinations in favor of a more consistent screening mechanism. The reexamination will also consider a change to the ownership rules surrounding wireless frequencies that treats bands below 1GHz differently than those above -- the better to address a chorus of smaller carriers that don't like all the prime spectrum going to the companies with the most existing clout, namely AT&T and Verizon. FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski argues that reform could spur innovation through more competition, although dissenting Commissioner Robert McDowell is worried that consistent rules will somehow create "uncertainty." Side-by-side with the review, the FCC is proposing an incentive-based reverse auction strategy to have TV broadcasters voluntarily give up their spectrum for cellular and data use. The multi-phase approach would have TV providers set the price at which they're willing to sell their spectrum to the FCC; those that just can't bear to part with their airwaves would be corralled into a tighter band range to make for larger available frequency blocks in the auction that follows. As with other FCC proposals, there's likely to be a long interval between the auction vote, the review and any definitive rulemaking, let alone an impact -- auctions by themselves can take years to play out. Still, any success with the measures could head off spectrum crunches while simultaneously preventing any solutions from consolidating too much power and creating their own problems. [Tower photo via Shutterstock]Filed under: Cellphones, Wireless, MobileFCC votes in favor of rethinking spectrum holding rules, goading broadcasters into wireless selloffs originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 28 Sep 2012 21:36:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink FierceWireless, Ars Technica | FCC (1), (2) | Email this | Comments

Range Rover Goes Even More Upscale

Posted: 28 Sep 2012 07:10 PM PDT

Range Rover Goes Even More Upscale


Range Rover Goes Even More Upscale
Land Rover ups the luxe in its top-of-the-line utility vehicle.

Maserati Looks to the Future

Posted: 28 Sep 2012 06:37 PM PDT

Maserati Looks to the Future


Maserati Looks to the Future
Italian automaker unveils the GranCabrio, confirms three future models.

Prometheus Blu-ray specs unveiled, arrives with seven hours of extras October 9t...

Posted: 28 Sep 2012 06:05 PM PDT

Prometheus Blu-ray specs unveiled, arrives with seven hours of extras October 9th (video)


Prometheus Blu-ray specs unveiled, arrives with seven hours of extras October 9th (video)
While Ridley Scott's latest flick is already available on just about every downloadable movie store you could name, Prometheus is still a few weeks away from making its debut on disc and now Fox has officially released all the details. The extras listed in an earlier leak appear to be accurate, with a Second Screen iPad app that promises access to character Peter Weyland's archives, while much of the 15 minutes or so of deleted and alternative scenes have already been posted on the internet (search around if you absolutely must know what else there is and can't wait / don't want to spend the cash). Arriving October 9th, there's a four disc set with both a Blu-ray 3D edition and bonus extras disc with featurettes for a total of seven hours of bonus materials, while the two disc set trims it to just one Blu-ray and DVD / digital copy. The two disc set is currently selling for $24.99 on Amazon, while the four disc edition bumps the price another $5. A trailer with a peek at some of those extras and the full list of details awaits after the break, but an explanation for why anyone would ever try to touch some weird space snake is something you'll have to find on your own.Continue reading Prometheus Blu-ray specs unveiled, arrives with seven hours of extras October 9th (video)Filed under: Home Entertainment, HDPrometheus Blu-ray specs unveiled, arrives with seven hours of extras October 9th (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 28 Sep 2012 21:01:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Amazon | Email this | Comments

Samsung Galaxy Note II variants for AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon possibly caught at t...

Posted: 28 Sep 2012 06:05 PM PDT

Samsung Galaxy Note II variants for AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon possibly caught at the FCC


Samsung Galaxy Note II variants for AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon possibly caught at the FCC
It's no secret that Samsung plans to bring the Galaxy Note II to many US carriers by mid-fall. Even so, getting there requires the FCC's blessing -- which makes us glad to see the regulator approve what might be three carriers' variants of the giant Android phone. The SGH-i317 looks to be the model for AT&T and Canadian carriers, having been greenlit for their key 3G and 4G bands while lining up with a briefly available benchmark of the device sharing the Note II's HD screen and use of Jelly Bean. The SCH-i605? Based on its inclusions of both CDMA and GSM, a lone 700MHz LTE band and a past screen capture leak, it's a dual-mode Note II destined for Verizon. As for the SGH-T889, it's even more conspicuous beyond what we've already seen: the T889's HSPA includes the 1,700MHz AWS frequency that T-Mobile will still call home for a long while. LTE likewise exists on the 1,700MHz and roaming-friendly 700MHz bands in possible instances of futureproofing. While we rarely want to say a mobile device is confirmed until we see it first-hand, the convenient timing and natures of the three FCC approvals only help to fuel suspicions that Samsung's pen-focused event on October 24th is all about the Note II's American launch.Filed under: Cellphones, MobileSamsung Galaxy Note II variants for AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon possibly caught at the FCC originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 28 Sep 2012 20:41:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | FCC (1), (2), (3) | Email this | Comments

Maserati Looks to the Future

Posted: 28 Sep 2012 06:04 PM PDT

Maserati Looks to the Future


Maserati Looks to the Future
Italian automaker unveils the GranCabrio, confirms three future models.

Nokia Parking helps you find and pay for a spot, we go hands-on (video)

Posted: 28 Sep 2012 05:32 PM PDT

Nokia Parking helps you find and pay for a spot, we go hands-on (video)


Nokia Parking helps you find and pay for a spot, we go hands-on (video)
Parking in Paris is a nightmare. No, it's worse -- it's bad enough to keep you awake at night, worrying that your precious machine will be scratched up or simply missing the next morning. Nokia, at least, is trying to make things a little easier with an upcoming service it's just calling Nokia Parking. It's a comprehensive parking database launching in Europe in November that can not only help you find parking but even help you pay for it once you do. More details, and a video demo, after the break.Continue reading Nokia Parking helps you find and pay for a spot, we go hands-on (video)Filed under: Software, NokiaNokia Parking helps you find and pay for a spot, we go hands-on (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 28 Sep 2012 20:21:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Audi A7 'coasting' hybrid knows when to be quiet [w/video]

Posted: 28 Sep 2012 04:53 PM PDT

Audi A7 'coasting' hybrid knows when to be quiet [w/video]


Audi A7 'coasting' hybrid knows when to be quiet [w/video]
Filed under: Emerging Technologies, Hybrid, Audi It looks like Audi is the latest automaker to equip a car with technology that makes humans look plain ol' dumb by comparison. In this case, the German automaker is developing a so-called "coasting" hybrid, which is a variation of the stop-start feature being included in an expanding stable of vehicle models. In fact, the system is similar to what we saw on the Volkswagen Golf Twin Drive in 2008, but Audi uses a three-cylinder gas-powered TFSI engine instead of the four-cylinder diesel that was found in the Golf. A version of Twin Drive was developed for the Audi A3, as well. The iHEV (Intelligent Hybrid Vehicle) is now being developed for the Audi A7 sedan, though the automaker hasn't said anything about timeframe, cost or availability. Still, the company came out with a nifty video (see it below), complete with computer-created graphics showing the car climbing and descending hills with the help of the hybrid system. The video's explanation was minimalist, but UK's Autocar laid out the details of the system, which includes a 48-volt electric motor powered by a 48-volt lithium-ion battery that, unlike current stop-start systems that cut the engine when the car is at a standstill, actually cuts or idles the engine when the car's in motion in order to save fuel. In other words, it can coast. Audi goes one step further by equipping the A7 with a navigation system that collects data on the inclines and declines down the road (literally) and uses the information to speed up, slow down or shut down the gas engine appropriately. The upshot is that the car, when tested on 38 miles of winding country roads, was able to shut down its gas engine during 28 percent of the journey and boosted fuel economy compared to a conventional A7 by about 10 percent.Continue reading Audi A7 'coasting' hybrid knows when to be quiet [w/video]Audi A7 'coasting' hybrid knows when to be quiet [w/video] originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 28 Sep 2012 19:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Apple Adds A Clarifying Description To Its “Apps For Passbook” Page In The App S...

Posted: 28 Sep 2012 04:53 PM PDT

Apple Adds A Clarifying Description To Its "Apps For Passbook" Page In The App Store


Apple Adds A Clarifying Description To Its "Apps For Passbook" Page In The App Store
Apple has made a small but significant tweak to its App Store for iOS 6 users, changing the Apps for Passbook section of the store. Before, when you clicked through in Passbook the link that brings you to a list of apps, that's all you saw: a simple listing of compatible apps. Now, there's a new paragraph describing what Passbook is, and what apps that are Passbook-enabled are capable of.

PSA: $25 Google Play credit for Nexus 7 ends this weekend

Posted: 28 Sep 2012 04:52 PM PDT

PSA: $25 Google Play credit for Nexus 7 ends this weekend


PSA: $25 Google Play credit for Nexus 7 ends this weekend
Those who have been keeping a close eye on Google's 7-inch, Jelly Bean-loaded Nexus 7 would know that the company kindly includes 25 bucks worth of Play credit with any purchase of said tablet. Unfortunately, as the famed cliché would tell us, all good things must come to an end -- and, well, such is the case with this neat promotion, which will expire on Sunday, September 30th. Here's the good news, however: there's still a relatively good amount of time for folks interested to get it on the Google Play deal, so now would be the perfect moment to snag what some are calling the best $200 tablet -- and who knows, this might even lead to a post-order Gangnam Style celebration of your own.Filed under: Misc, Tablets, GooglePSA: $25 Google Play credit for Nexus 7 ends this weekend originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 28 Sep 2012 19:44:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Google | Email this | Comments

US Appeals court rules Motorola can't enforce injunction against Microsoft in Ge...

Posted: 28 Sep 2012 04:52 PM PDT

US Appeals court rules Motorola can't enforce injunction against Microsoft in Germany... again


US Appeals court rules Motorola can't enforce injunction against Microsoft in Germany... again
In another face of the ever turning world of patent battles, Reuters reports Microsoft has snagged a victory over Motorola as the 9th US Circuit Court of Appeals ruled in its favor today. Motorola had obtained an injunction in Germany against Microsoft products -- including the Xbox 360 and Windows 7 -- based on its h.264 patents back in May, but today the court upheld a previous decision putting enforcement on hold because of Microsoft's existing lawsuit against Moto for breach of contract. Microsoft's push to leverage its patents into licensing payouts from manufacturers of Android devices have seen the two at each other's throats since at least 2010, when the folks from Redmond lodged an ITC complaint over nine patents and followed up with another suit accusing Motorola of charging unfair license fees for its patents. Motorola fired back with its own pair of lawsuits -- all of this a year before we heard it would be acquired by Google -- and the battle was on. Whether or not this moves us any closer to any resolution remains to be seen, but at least Bavarian gaming consoles are safe, for now.Filed under: Cellphones, Mobile, Microsoft, GoogleUS Appeals court rules Motorola can't enforce injunction against Microsoft in Germany... again originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 28 Sep 2012 19:22:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Dan Levine (Twitter), Reuters | Email this | Comments