Subscribe:

Thursday, October 11, 2012

Shops Online

Shops Online

D-Link PowerLine AV+ Mini Adapter kit keeps wired networks as subtle (and cheap)...

Posted: 11 Oct 2012 04:40 PM PDT

D-Link PowerLine AV+ Mini Adapter kit keeps wired networks as subtle (and cheap) as possible


D-Link PowerLine AV+ Mini Adapter kit keeps wired networks as subtle (and cheap) as possible
D-Link still sees there being a place for powerline networking, such as a basement home theater, but knows that many of us don't want an overly clunky set of adapters or to effectively buy a second network. Its new (if slightly awkwardly named) PowerLine AV+ Mini Adapter Starter Kit caters just to that desire for a no-hassle network in places WiFi won't reach. The bundle carries a pair of small, 200Mbps adapters that won't monopolize the wall outlets, a pair of Ethernet cables to link up... and that's it. Apart from the optional 128-bit AES encryption, there's nothing else needed to either make a direct connection or graft powerline technology into an existing network. At $60, the already shipping kit is also just low enough in price that there's very little standing between us and a reliable connection for a console or placeshifter.Continue reading D-Link PowerLine AV+ Mini Adapter kit keeps wired networks as subtle (and cheap) as possibleFiled under: NetworkingD-Link PowerLine AV+ Mini Adapter kit keeps wired networks as subtle (and cheap) as possible originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 11 Oct 2012 19:31:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | D-Link | Email this | Comments

Welcome to the new Engadget commenting system, Livefyre

Posted: 11 Oct 2012 04:39 PM PDT

Welcome to the new Engadget commenting system, Livefyre


Welcome to the new Engadget commenting system, Livefyre
Greetings readers and commenters. We here at Engadget are always working hard to provide you with the best reading experience we possibly can. To do this, we're making a clean break from our old commenting system -- starting anew in the interests of elevating the discourse that occurs in our comments. Yes, we know that change can be inconvenient at best and scary at worst, but fear not, dear readers, for Livefyre is here to improve your Engadget commenting experience. All you have to do is create a Livefyre account or login using your existing Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn or OpenID credentials. And before you ask, no, your Disqus account cannot be ported to the new system. Everyone needs a fresh start sometimes, okay? This is one of those times. Eager to learn more? Want to help make our comments better? The answers you seek are after the break.Continue reading Welcome to the new Engadget commenting system, LivefyreFiled under: Announcements, HD, MobileWelcome to the new Engadget commenting system, Livefyre originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 11 Oct 2012 19:01:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Sony VAIO Tap 20 battery-powered all-in-one arriving this month for $880 and up

Posted: 11 Oct 2012 04:39 PM PDT

Sony VAIO Tap 20 battery-powered all-in-one arriving this month for $880 and up


Sony VAIO Tap 20 battery-powered all-in-one arriving this month for $880 and up
Sure, you were expecting PC makers to announce loads of Windows 8 hybrids, but a battery-powered all-in-one? Probably not. Nonetheless, that's exactly what Sony unveiled last month at IFA when it showed off the VAIO Tap 20. Designed with families in mind, it could stay plugged into an outlet, but it's built so that you can carry it easily enough from the kitchen to the living room, if that's where the kids are hanging out. (It's 11.4 pounds, so we're guessing you won't want to schlep it much farther.) Though we've already gotten a sneak peek at the machine, Sony announced today that it will go on sale in the US on October 26th (the day Windows 8 launches), starting at $880. At that entry-level price, you'll get a laptop-grade Core i3 processor, 4GB of RAM and a 500GB hard drive, though you can also configure it with i5 and i7 CPUs and an SSD. As the photos suggest, that 20-inch, 1,600 x 900 display can lie flat, which should come in handy with drawing apps and certain games, like jigsaw puzzles. In keeping with that kitchen-friendly, kid-proof theme, Sony's also billing the display as "drop-resistant" -- there's a rubber seal around the bezel that promises to keep water far, far away from the motherboard. Oh, and though this isn't exactly a premium desktop, the display at least uses IPS technology, so it's safe to say you can expect decent viewing angles if you're crowding around to watch a movie or have the screen lying flat. Rounding out the spec list, the Tap 20 also has built-in NFC, a 1.3-megapixel webcam, dual speakers and a subwoofer. Software-wise, the Tap 20 comes with Artrage Studio Pro, along with Fingertaps, a Sony-made app that combines drawing functions with to-do lists and reminders, all arranged in a cute clothes-pin-style interface. Head over to the Windows Store and you'll also find some other Sony apps ready for download, including the Socialife aggregator, Music by Sony, VAIO Movie Creator and Album by Sony (the latter is a photo and video organizer). Again, this thing won't go on sale for another two weeks, but if you're curious we'll point you toward our earlier hands-on post for photos and video.Continue reading Sony VAIO Tap 20 battery-powered all-in-one arriving this month for $880 and upFiled under: Desktops, SonySony VAIO Tap 20 battery-powered all-in-one arriving this month for $880 and up originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 11 Oct 2012 19:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Sony's VAIO Duo 11 Windows 8 slider goes on sale this month, starts at $1,100

Posted: 11 Oct 2012 04:39 PM PDT

Sony's VAIO Duo 11 Windows 8 slider goes on sale this month, starts at $1,100


Sony's VAIO Duo 11 Windows 8 slider goes on sale this month, starts at $1,100
At least in the beginning, most of the made-for-Windows-8 devices you're going to see will have a very similar form factor -- namely, a tablet that slots into a detachable keyboard dock. Sony, though, is taking a different tack: the outfit is ignoring the hybrid trend altogether and will instead sell the VAIO Duo 11, one of a select few slider PCs to hit the market. Though we already got hands-on, we're just now learning about pricing and availability: the company just announced that the Duo is coming out October 26th (the same day as Windows 8) and will start at $1,100. That's a lofty price, to be sure, but with a spec sheet that includes Ultrabook guts, a backlit keyboard, NFC, GPS and a 1080p, IPS, Gorilla Glass display, we don't see how it could've cost much less. Take a gander at the design, and you'll see it's mostly made of magnesium alloy and, having handled it ourselves, we can attest to the sturdiness of the hinge mechanism. Compared to other sliders, which often make do with cramped keyboards, this offers a reasonably spacious layout, though it comes at the expense of a trackpad. Indeed, there's no touchpad here; just an optical pointing stick. (Thankfully, it seems pretty precise.) Additionally, the Duo 11 supports pen input, and comes with a dual digitizer pen that can recognize 256 levels of pressure sensitivity. As a tablet-like device, it has not one, but two cameras, both capturing at 2.4-megapixel resolution. Continuing our tour of the device, the 2.84-pound system is home to a surprisingly robust collection of ports, including HDMI-out, two USB 3.0 sockets, an Ethernet jack (!), memory card slot, headphone jack and VGA. Yes, VGA. This might be a good time to clarify that Sony envisions this as a machine for road warriors, though it comes not with Windows 8 Professional, but Home Premium. That would also explain the battery situation: in addition to the built-in 4,960mAh cell, it will be offered with an optional slice battery that promises to double the runtime. Bonus: the spare has its own AC port, so you can plug it directly into the outlet. Again, the Duo 11 starts at $1,100 with a Core i3 processor, 4GB of RAM and a 128GB SSD (you can upgrade to a 256 drive and a Core i5 or 7 CPU if you wish). That's all she wrote for now, but check out our hands-on for more photos and a quick video.Continue reading Sony's VAIO Duo 11 Windows 8 slider goes on sale this month, starts at $1,100Filed under: Laptops, SonySony's VAIO Duo 11 Windows 8 slider goes on sale this month, starts at $1,100 originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 11 Oct 2012 19:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Sony announces 14-inch VAIO T14 Ultrabook, says it will offer the T13 with an op...

Posted: 11 Oct 2012 04:39 PM PDT

Sony announces 14-inch VAIO T14 Ultrabook, says it will offer the T13 with an optional touchscreen


Sony announces 14-inch VAIO T14 Ultrabook, says it will offer the T13 with an optional touchscreen
In case you haven't noticed, Sony just announced pricing for all sorts of touch-friendly Windows 8 products -- namely, the VAIO Duo 11, Tap 20 and the E14P multimedia laptop. But not everything in the company's lineup needs to have a touchscreen. The outfit just announced the VAIO T14, a reasonably priced 14-inch Ultrabook that you'll have to use the old-fashioned way: with a keyboard and trackpad. So far as we can tell, it's the same metal-and-plastic industrial design as the existing T13, except now the speakers sit above the keyboard, instead of on the front edge. As you can imagine, the 14-inch version (pictured above) is a bit thicker and heavier than the 13-inch model (3.77 pounds, up from 3.54), which means the chassis is now wide enough to accommodate an optical drive. What's slightly disappointing, though, is that while the T14 has a larger footprint, it doesn't add any additional ports. As with the T13, you get two USB ports (one 3.0, one 2.0), HDMI output, an Ethernet jack, audio-out and a VGA socket. Another USB connection or two would've been nice, is all. In addition to announcing the T14, Sony also revealed that it will start offering the T13 with an optional touchscreen -- a $100 upgrade you can add during the configuration process. (Sony's Japanese and UK divisions already announced a touch-enabled version of the T13, but until now it was unclear whether it would ever go on sale in the US.) As you might have guessed, that touchscreen adds a few ounces to the weight. The upside, though (aside from having a touchscreen, if that's what you're into) is that it has a prettier, edge-to-edge glass display -- a definite improvement over that standard wide bezel. (Check out the shot after the break to see what we mean.) The T13 will continue to sell for $670 and up, with the touch option becoming available this month. The T14 will also go on sale in the coming weeks starting at at $670.Continue reading Sony announces 14-inch VAIO T14 Ultrabook, says it will offer the T13 with an optional touchscreenFiled under: Laptops, SonySony announces 14-inch VAIO T14 Ultrabook, says it will offer the T13 with an optional touchscreen originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 11 Oct 2012 19:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Sony intros 17-inch VAIO E17 multimedia laptop, will offer the current E14P with...

Posted: 11 Oct 2012 04:38 PM PDT

Sony intros 17-inch VAIO E17 multimedia laptop, will offer the current E14P with a touchscreen


Sony intros 17-inch VAIO E17 multimedia laptop, will offer the current E14P with a touchscreen
If you cried when Sony discontinued its performance-heavy VAIO F Series, it looks like the company's marketing team heard your complaints: Sony just announced the VAIO E17, the closet thing it's had to a proper multimedia machine since discontinuing the F line. As the name suggests, the E17 (pictured) has a 17-inch panel, which is good news for anyone who's gone shopping for an oversized notebook lately -- there simply aren't that many non-gaming-laptops this size. As befits a system in this class, it has a 1080p screen, and can be configured with a quad-core Core i7 processor and discrete AMD Radeon HD graphics. Meanwhile, Sony also announced that it's going to offer the existing VAIO E14P with a touchscreen -- a $100 upgrade. Look for both of these to land before the end of the month, with the E14P starting at $690 (sans touchscreen) and the E17 going for $730 and up.Continue reading Sony intros 17-inch VAIO E17 multimedia laptop, will offer the current E14P with a touchscreenFiled under: Laptops, SonySony intros 17-inch VAIO E17 multimedia laptop, will offer the current E14P with a touchscreen originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 11 Oct 2012 19:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Republican groups turning focus to House races

Posted: 11 Oct 2012 04:38 PM PDT

Republican groups turning focus to House races


Republican groups turning focus to House races
A late spending splurge by outside political groups helped Republicans take over the House two years ago. The floodgates are opening again, but this time Democrats say they're better prepared.

Land Rover says plug-in hybrid Range Rover on the way

Posted: 11 Oct 2012 03:40 PM PDT

Land Rover says plug-in hybrid Range Rover on the way


Land Rover says plug-in hybrid Range Rover on the way
Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Hybrid, Land Rover Think of it as an SUV for the environmentally conscious gentry.Land Rover might make a plug-in hybrid-electric vehicle (PHEV) version of its Range Rover as early as 2015, UK's Auto Express reports, citing Jaguar Land Rover Hybrid Technology Chief Engineer Peter Richings. Land Rover, whose Jaguar affiliate has already produced a PHEV prototype that gets an estimated 73.5 miles per gallon equivalent, is eying the Range Rover as a possible production PHEV because the model's buyers would likely be able to afford the cost of the new technology. Richings said the model would debut sometime between 2015 and 2020. Land Rover confirmed at its 2013 model unveiling in September that it would get a hybrid variant that would pair a 3.0-liter diesel V6 with an electric motor. That model, which won't be available in the U.S., will have 333 horsepower and 45 miles per gallon (on the more lenient European driving cycle). Land Rover said in April that it may also get an extended-range plug-in variant as early as 2014. Pictured above is the diesel-powered hybrid Range_e concept from the 2011 Geneva Motor Show.Land Rover says plug-in hybrid Range Rover on the way originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 11 Oct 2012 18:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Panasonic releases the Toughbook SX2, a laptop that'll take no prisoners at the...

Posted: 11 Oct 2012 03:40 PM PDT

Panasonic releases the Toughbook SX2, a laptop that'll take no prisoners at the quarterly conference


Panasonic releases the Toughbook SX2, a laptop that'll take no prisoners at the quarterly conference
If you're in the market for a laptop that won't buckle if you start flinging it across the room, Ballmer-style, then Panasonic's "business ruggedized" Toughbook SX2 might be for you. Resembling one of the company's Let's Note units, the 12.1-inch unit boasts of a difficult-to-believe 14.5 hours of battery life, a slim yet sturdy magnesium alloy body and a 3.3 GHz Intel Core i5-3320M Turbo-boosted CPU. It'll arrive later this month, with the base model making a $2,649 sized hole in your company's procurement budget -- and if you'd like to know more, there's the obligatory hairy-chested press release after the break.Continue reading Panasonic releases the Toughbook SX2, a laptop that'll take no prisoners at the quarterly conferenceFiled under: LaptopsPanasonic releases the Toughbook SX2, a laptop that'll take no prisoners at the quarterly conference originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 11 Oct 2012 18:01:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Atari and Zynga team up to reboot Breakout in 'Super Bunny Breakout' on iOS

Posted: 11 Oct 2012 02:44 PM PDT

Atari and Zynga team up to reboot Breakout in 'Super Bunny Breakout' on iOS


Atari and Zynga team up to reboot Breakout in 'Super Bunny Breakout' on iOS
Atari may be little more than a vestige of its former self, but that isn't stopping the publisher from crafting new versions of its classic games. "Super Bunny Breakout," for example, is a project created with Ville-crafter Zynga, and it's a new spin on Atari classic Breakout. Not to be outdone, Zynga's added its own Zynga-esque flavor to the game, which means ... in-app purchases. Yes indeed, rather than a regular ol' ball bouncing around a stage, Super Bunny Breakout has players bouncing "a daredevil rabbit with an appetite for revenge -- sadly, that rabbit (and his friends) have seasonal affective disorder (or something) and can't help but lose energy. How to replenish that energy? You'll "collect or purchase coins via in-app purchase," apparently. Despite the stink of in-game purchases, Super Bunny Breakout costs $0.99 and is currently available on iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch through iTunes.Continue reading Atari and Zynga team up to reboot Breakout in 'Super Bunny Breakout' on iOSFiled under: Gaming, Mobile, AltAtari and Zynga team up to reboot Breakout in 'Super Bunny Breakout' on iOS originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 11 Oct 2012 17:35:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Which Trendy New 4-Inch Phone Is For You?

Posted: 11 Oct 2012 02:44 PM PDT

Which Trendy New 4-Inch Phone Is For You?


Which Trendy New 4-Inch Phone Is For You?
It was inevitable. Smartphone displays have gone from a standard 4 inches to ~5-inches in a short time, and the truth is that phones can only get so big before being too big. And so, as the tide ebbs and flows, so do smartphone design trends, and it would appear that "small" displays are so in. Now, to be perfectly clear, I have no problem with big phones like the Galaxy S III and Galaxy Note II (and all the others). They are excellent phones, and other people (not myself) seem to enjoy their massive displays quite a bit. More power to you, big-handed friends!

Google announces simplified Zagat ratings, launches new application for Android

Posted: 11 Oct 2012 02:44 PM PDT

Google announces simplified Zagat ratings, launches new application for Android


Google announces simplified Zagat ratings, launches new application for Android
Avid Zagat users may or may not tell you that the Google-owned restaurant finder service hasn't exactly been offering the best rating system possible. With the most recent update, however, the hard-working devs from Mountain View are aiming to fix those woes, announcing that it's now "easier than ever" to publish reviews on the platform. The new rating system, as you can see above, will let users in on a more simplified scoring method, with the ability to simply rate as "poor-fair," "good," "very good" or "excellent." Meanwhile, Google also launched a revamped, free-of-charge Zagat app for Android, which brings all the features you love to both handsets and slates. You'll find the fresh application at the Google Play link below.Filed under: Internet, Software, MobileGoogle announces simplified Zagat ratings, launches new application for Android originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 11 Oct 2012 17:07:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink 9to5Google, TechCrunch | Google+, Google Play | Email this | Comments

Republican groups turning focus to House races

Posted: 11 Oct 2012 02:44 PM PDT

Republican groups turning focus to House races


Republican groups turning focus to House races
A late spending splurge by outside political groups helped Republicans take over the House two years ago.

Plug In America releases guidebook for Hawaii EV drivers

Posted: 11 Oct 2012 01:51 PM PDT

Plug In America releases guidebook for Hawaii EV drivers


Plug In America releases guidebook for Hawaii EV drivers
Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Green Culture Plug In America is saying Aloha to Hawaii's growing legion of electric-vehicle drivers. The electric vehicle advocate group used a $50,000 grant from the State of Hawaii to produce a 48-page guidebook (PDF) designed to help novices adopt their first electric vehicle. The document - downloadable for free from Plug In America's website - covers issues such as charging costs and installation expenses. It also discusses ways to install a charger in places like a single-family home or multi-unit dwelling and other factors to consider. Along with California, Hawaii's been a leading U.S. state when it comes to alt-fuel vehicle adoption (rightly so) because of the combination of relatively high gas prices and short driving distances that take the edge off of range anxiety. Interested in the first EV in Hawaii? We've got that story for you right here. In fact, for those keeping track, the U.S. Department of Energy says Hawaii has 260 EV charging stations, or about one for every 1,700 vehicles there. That's pretty impressive, considering that the U.S. in total has almost 10,000 vehicles per charging station.Plug In America releases guidebook for Hawaii EV drivers originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 11 Oct 2012 16:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

South Korea delays ban on iPads and iPhones until Apple can appeal

Posted: 11 Oct 2012 01:51 PM PDT

South Korea delays ban on iPads and iPhones until Apple can appeal


South Korea delays ban on iPads and iPhones until Apple can appeal
Apple and Samsung have been recreating the Cold War through their own mutually assured destruction policy, and nowhere is that more apparent than their Pyrrhic victories in South Korea. For Apple, however, the pain will be just a little easier to bear. A Seoul court has confirmed that it's staying the ban on older iPads and iPhones until Apple can complete the appeals process; the Cupertino crew won't face the full penalty unless the appeals court upholds the verdict. Samsung hasn't yet asked for a similar pause on a ban covering some of its Android devices, though, which could lead to at least a momentarily lopsided situation in Samsung's home country. It's nonetheless a brief reprieve in a war that sadly won't end anytime soon.Filed under: Cellphones, Tablets, Mobile, Apple, SamsungSouth Korea delays ban on iPads and iPhones until Apple can appeal originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 11 Oct 2012 16:38:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Bloomberg | Email this | Comments

The 2012 Deals of Christmas

Posted: 11 Oct 2012 01:50 PM PDT

The 2012 Deals of Christmas


The 2012 Deals of Christmas
Seven of the 10 best days of the year to buy a new car are in December.

The Engadget Podcast is live tonight at 4PM!

Posted: 11 Oct 2012 01:50 PM PDT

The Engadget Podcast is live tonight at 4PM!


The Engadget Podcast is live tonight at 4PM!
Tim's back! Remember him? We're so excited to get the old team back together that we just couldn't wait until 5:00 to do this week's show. So join Tim, Brian and Dana tonight at 4PM ET tonight for gadgety goodness.Continue reading The Engadget Podcast is live tonight at 4PM!The Engadget Podcast is live tonight at 4PM! originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 11 Oct 2012 15:30:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

F1 driver who lost eye recalls crash terror

Posted: 11 Oct 2012 01:50 PM PDT

F1 driver who lost eye recalls crash terror


F1 driver who lost eye recalls crash terror
"The worst is now behind."

Heyzap’s ‘Play With Friends’ Feature Connects You With Other Players In Any Mobi...

Posted: 11 Oct 2012 01:50 PM PDT

Heyzap's 'Play With Friends' Feature Connects You With Other Players In Any Mobile Multiplayer Game


Heyzap's 'Play With Friends' Feature Connects You With Other Players In Any Mobile Multiplayer Game
Heyzap has added a cool new feature to its social platform for mobile games — the ability to actually start playing games with other users. The app already allowed users to check-in to games that they were playing (either manually in the Heyzapp app, or automatically through its many SDK integrations), to earn badges, and to find other players and games. However, in order to actually start playing a game with someone else, users had to manually share their in-game usernames with each other. That's something "tons of users" were doing, says co-founder Jude Gomila, but it's not exactly a graceful solution.

Facebook’s First Mobile Advertising Interface Was Built By An Intern

Posted: 11 Oct 2012 01:50 PM PDT

Facebook's First Mobile Advertising Interface Was Built By An Intern


Facebook's First Mobile Advertising Interface Was Built By An Intern
Facebook has assembled one of the tech world's best and brightest team of engineers, and today we get a little glimpse at one process it uses to find and nurture that talent: trials by fire. It turns out that an intern by the name of Peter Cottle was responsible for Facebook's first product that let people buy mobile ad space, via a mobile device. The story, as told in a blog post that he's written, goes like this:

BYD buses win MPGe tests in Colombia

Posted: 11 Oct 2012 01:50 PM PDT

BYD buses win MPGe tests in Colombia


BYD buses win MPGe tests in Colombia
Filed under: EV/Plug-in, South/Latin America, BYD The energy efficiency of electric buses from BYD didn't get lost in translation, apparently. The Chinese company entered its all-electric buses in a fuel-efficiency testing program put on in Colombia by the Clinton Climate Initiative (CCI) and InterAmerican Development Bank (IABD), and the buses came up big. Running against diesel and CNG-hybrid buses on a 12-mile route through Bogota that took between 60 and 90 minutes to complete, BYD's bus achieved a 7.3 km/liter-equivalent by measuring costs and 11 km/liter-equivalent measuring by energy output, which was the best among the buses tested. By our math, that comes out to between 17 to 26 miles per gallon equivalent, which doesn't sound great relative to cars, but is three to four times what the typical smoke-belching diesel bus gets. BYD says the 200-plus electric buses it has put into service in Shenzhen, China have put on more than 5.5 million miles. In June, the company sold six buses to the Dutch island of Schiermonnikoog. In May, BYD won a contract to sell the city of Windsor, Ontario, for what was said to be the first North American municipal fleet of all-electric buses. BYD's press release is available below.Continue reading BYD buses win MPGe tests in ColombiaBYD buses win MPGe tests in Colombia originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 11 Oct 2012 14:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

V-Moda's M-100 audiophile headphones get ready for mass production, we go ears-on

Posted: 11 Oct 2012 01:50 PM PDT

V-Moda's M-100 audiophile headphones get ready for mass production, we go ears-on


V-Moda's M-100 audiophile headphones get ready for mass production, we go ears-on
V-Moda's been seriously edging for the audiophile crowd lately -- namely with its Crossfade M-80 on-ear headphones, the VAMP headphone amp for the iPhone 4/4S, and a soon-to-be disclosed followup dubbed as Vamp Versa. That brings us to its soon-to-be released M-100 headphones, which haven't really been a secret since their inception, making them a special set. Unlike many companies who strive for secrecy in regards to upcoming products, V-Moda's taken a drastically different approach with its latest cans, with owner Val Kolton stating that they're effectively the first crowd-sourced set of headphones. Many headphone lovers out there likely know that Kolton's been heavily in contact with the Head-Fi community, hoping to craft the best sounding, looking and fitting ear-gear possible. As he puts it, "the easter egg and inside joke is that the [M-100 headphones] can actually stand up. It is the first headphone that we know of that 'stands above the rest' and all others fall down/crawl. It also can stand on top of a few other new brand's models almost like Cirque De Soleil." It may be hard to tell based on the fashion-focused looks, but the company is adamant that its audio gear goes through more stringent research and testing than some of the biggest names out there, and that it'll show in the end products. Most notably, its TrueHertz testing where, for the M-100, "six points from 5hZ to 12kHz are measured to be within [its] obsessive quality control levels." According to Kolton, most companies only check at 1Khz, and allow for much wider variances. He followed up stating that "like fine wine, a headphone is only as good as its fit (taste buds) and its driver variances (grapes/cork). To us, all brands advertising 'HD' sound [aren't being forthright] unless they believe or even know these key components are "'fugazi.'" Gallery: V-Moda M-100 (hands-on) For perspective, the M-100 is essentially the third iteration of the Crossfade LP over-ear headphones. Aside from a few tweaks to the design, it's packing an audiophile-focused tuning (rather than DJ) that's based on blending the voicings of its M-80 on-ears and the LP2 over-ears. It wouldn't be unfair to say the company is aiming for a flat, yet fun sound -- all in a package that's fit to take to the streets like its earlier offerings. Those familiar may know that just under 150 of the first 200 production-quality models are currently floating around as early stock and test units for a final bit of real-world feedback before mass-production begins -- and this editor's been lucky enough to get his mitts on a set for some initial impressions. So, is the product shaping up to match all the hype? Click on past the break our take.Continue reading V-Moda's M-100 audiophile headphones get ready for mass production, we go ears-onFiled under: Portable Audio/Video, WearablesV-Moda's M-100 audiophile headphones get ready for mass production, we go ears-on originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 11 Oct 2012 15:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Motorola Droid Razr HD, Razr Maxx HD To Hit Verizon Stores October 18

Posted: 11 Oct 2012 01:50 PM PDT

Motorola Droid Razr HD, Razr Maxx HD To Hit Verizon Stores October 18


Motorola Droid Razr HD, Razr Maxx HD To Hit Verizon Stores October 18
Verizon has officially announced the release of the Droid Razr HD and Droid Razr Maxx HD on October 18. That's a Thursday.

Isis, MCX, Barclaycard And Others On Mobile Payments And The Challenge Of “Conve...

Posted: 11 Oct 2012 01:50 PM PDT

Isis, MCX, Barclaycard And Others On Mobile Payments And The Challenge Of "Convening An Industry"


Isis, MCX, Barclaycard And Others On Mobile Payments And The Challenge Of "Convening An Industry"
At CTIA MobileCon's third day keynote in San Diego, a panel of mobile commerce industry leaders discussed the state of mobile payments, the challenges it faces in terms of adoption and regulatory concerns, and where we might be headed next. The bottom line: it's the wild west out there, and unlikely to gain any clarity any time soon.

Sony Alpha A99 DSLR sample shots and video, plus comparison with the RX1 full-fr...

Posted: 11 Oct 2012 01:49 PM PDT

Sony Alpha A99 DSLR sample shots and video, plus comparison with the RX1 full-frame compact


Sony Alpha A99 DSLR sample shots and video, plus comparison with the RX1 full-frame compact
Sony's A99 marks the first time in years that the company has built a full-frame pro rig to compete with the big boys from Canon and Nikon. The hardware impressed when we got our hands on one a month ago, but the proof, as they say, is in the pudding -- or in the photos in this case. So, we jumped at the chance to spend some time shooting with an A99 equipped with a 24 -70mm f/2.8 Carl Zeiss Vario Sonnar T Zoom Lens. Want to know how Sony's latest and greatest performed? Head on past the break to find out.Gallery: Sony Alpha A99 DSLR sample shotsContinue reading Sony Alpha A99 DSLR sample shots and video, plus comparison with the RX1 full-frame compactFiled under: Cameras, SonySony Alpha A99 DSLR sample shots and video, plus comparison with the RX1 full-frame compact originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 11 Oct 2012 14:38:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Samsung’s Galaxy Nexus Gets A Reprieve As Appeals Court Overturns Sales Injunction

Posted: 11 Oct 2012 01:49 PM PDT

Samsung's Galaxy Nexus Gets A Reprieve As Appeals Court Overturns Sales Injunction


Samsung's Galaxy Nexus Gets A Reprieve As Appeals Court Overturns Sales Injunction
After stating that a California district court "abused its discretion," the U.S. Court Of Appeals for the Federal Circuit has officially reversed a previously-issued sales injunction on the Samsung Galaxy Nexus, Reuters reports. This whole kerfuffle is centered on one particular patent -- #8,086,604 to be specific -- which deals with a pretty broadly-defined universal search mechanism.

Amazon extending Kindle Owners' Lending Library to the UK, Germany and France th...

Posted: 11 Oct 2012 01:49 PM PDT

Amazon extending Kindle Owners' Lending Library to the UK, Germany and France this month


Amazon extending Kindle Owners' Lending Library to the UK, Germany and France this month
Amazon's Kindle Owners' Lending Library has grown considerably since launching in the US, and it looks like the company's finally decided it was time to let some other countries in on the service as well. It announced today that Amazon Prime members in the UK, Germany and France would all have access to the service "later this month," although it's not providing a specific date just yet. As in the US, it will let folks borrow up to one book a month for free, with over 200,000 titles available to choose from (including "thousands" in the countries' local languages). Alongside that expansion, Amazon has also announced yet another increase (of $100,000) to its Kindle Direct Publishing Select fund -- which pays independent authors who include their books in the Lending Library -- with an even bigger one planed for November. No word yet on any additional countries next in line.Continue reading Amazon extending Kindle Owners' Lending Library to the UK, Germany and France this monthAmazon extending Kindle Owners' Lending Library to the UK, Germany and France this month originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 11 Oct 2012 14:16:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.de, Amazon.fr | Email this | Comments

Smartphone on wheels: Chevy Spark adds apps to driving experience

Posted: 11 Oct 2012 01:49 PM PDT

Smartphone on wheels: Chevy Spark adds apps to driving experience


Smartphone on wheels: Chevy Spark adds apps to driving experience
The 2013 Chevrolet Spark minicar integrates your smartphone for navigation, audio capabilities, handfree calling and more.

Wendy's logo gets first makeover since 1983

Posted: 11 Oct 2012 01:48 PM PDT

Wendy's logo gets first makeover since 1983


Wendy's logo gets first makeover since 1983
Wendy's pigtails are getting a tweak.

Samsung Galaxy S III mini pops up, we go hands on

Posted: 11 Oct 2012 10:28 AM PDT

Samsung Galaxy S III mini pops up, we go hands on


Samsung Galaxy S III mini pops up, we go hands on
When word first started trickling out that Samsung planned to make a mini version of the Galaxy S III, it had the air of plausibility. Then, a press invitation confirmed that "something small" was in the works, and finally mobile chief JK Shin confirmed that a smartphone of that name would be announced today in Frankfurt, Germany. Now Samsung's spilled all the beans, and revealed the new Galaxy S III mini, a slightly paler version of its bigger brother in specs as well as screen size. Our own short time with the phone certainly revealed that its pushing all the same "inspired by nature" buttons of the original Galaxy S III (and the Galaxy Note II), with the same exact rounded pebble shape and layout. The marketing rep we spoke to from Germany said that the company's research found that users wanted the same phone design as the 4.8-inch Galaxy S III, but in a smaller form factor -- to more easily fit smaller hands and pockets. Samsung said those folks don't necessarily need or want the most powerful phone they can get their hands on and are content to have those mid-level specs -- 1GHz dual-core processor, 1GB RAM, a 4-inch, WVGA AMOLED screen and 32GB max of memory. It remains to be seen if those specs will dilute the Galaxy S brand, but in any event, we found the phone certainly doesn't give our regular-sized hands cramps like its older brother can (let alone the Note II), and the comfortable shape of the original works even better with the mini version. The button placement is identical to the larger handset, and the phone will come out of the box with nearly identical Android 4.1.1 Jelly Bean functionality -- with the added Samsung Touchwiz twist, of course. That includes new niceties like the multi-screen option, and a brief play with the phone shows the same butter factor, even with the lesser dual-core processor. So might this mini-me Galaxy S III model sway you over to the Samsung Galaxy family if you disdain the giant screen of its predecessor? Check out the gallery below to see how the size compares with the rest of the family, with a video coming soon. Gallery: Samsung Galaxy S III miniFiled under: Cellphones, Mobile, SamsungSamsung Galaxy S III mini pops up, we go hands on originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 11 Oct 2012 13:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments