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Sunday, October 7, 2012

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Switched On: Hail to the hybrids

Posted: 07 Oct 2012 02:38 PM PDT

Switched On: Hail to the hybrids


Switched On: Hail to the hybrids
Each week Ross Rubin contributes Switched On, a column about consumer technology. In the world according to Apple, there are OS X-based Macs and iOS-based iPads and, as it stands now in the era of disparate kitchen appliances, never the twain shall meet, even if they tend to borrow features from each other. Point the finger of blame at synthetic pointing devices that offer precision at the expense of intimacy. Google has played it a little looser with its two-pronged operating system strategy. It has reserved Chrome OS for such traditionally touch-deficient computing form factors as desktops and notebooks while allowing Android to support keyboards and mice. However, as Switched On noted nearly a year ago, we've seen few pure clamshells that use Android. Microsoft, however, has thrown these distinctions out the window, or at least with Windows. The latest release of its PC operating system seeks to dissolve the interface differences between laptops and tablets. It will appear on both types of devices as well as touch-enabled all-in-ones and desktops. But Windows 8 -- with its tablet-friendly face and ability to run traditional productivity applications -- will also turn more PC manufacturer attention toward portable devices that live somewhere between a completely unadorned tablet and a notebook. We can expect two main kinds of these hybrids.Continue reading Switched On: Hail to the hybridsFiled under: Handhelds, TabletsSwitched On: Hail to the hybrids originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 07 Oct 2012 17:30:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Skullcandy unveils Navigator on-ear headphones, we take a first listen to the Av...

Posted: 07 Oct 2012 02:37 PM PDT

Skullcandy unveils Navigator on-ear headphones, we take a first listen to the Aviator's petite "sibling"


Skullcandy unveils Navigator on-ear headphones, we take a first listen to the Aviator's petite "sibling"
Believe it or not, what you're looking at above is a set of headphones -- let us explain. It's no secret that Skullcandy has been working steadfast to improve its tattered repertoire with headphone junkies for the past two years. Nowadays, it's not uncommon to hear generally favorable opinions about its Jay-Z-endorsed Roc Nation Aviators ($150), and the company has apparently taken notice. Aiming to build on that success it's had blending sunglasses with headphones, it's now ready to let loose a "smaller sibling" into the lineup -- and we've been able to get an exclusive first look and listen. Without further ado, say hello to the Navigator. Priced at $99, it features a similar aviator-esque style to Jay-Z's model, albeit in a petite on-ear package -- we'd say the design direction this time is even better looking, too. The cans feature collapsible earcups with flat earpads and metal construction (just like you'd find on sunglasses) with a faux leather-wrapped headband and a flat tangle-resistant cable (detachable) which houses an iDevice-compatible three-button remote and microphone. Skullcandy is being light on technical details at the moment, but we do know that headphones will come in your choice of black or black with blue lenses earcups. Interests piqued? Both colors of the Navigator will officially land at Apple stores tomorrow, where they'll be an exclusive offering until the end of the month -- in the meantime, join us past the break for our initial impressions. Gallery: Skullcandy Navigator on-ear headphone hands-onContinue reading Skullcandy unveils Navigator on-ear headphones, we take a first listen to the Aviator's petite "sibling"Filed under: Portable Audio/Video, WearablesSkullcandy unveils Navigator on-ear headphones, we take a first listen to the Aviator's petite "sibling" originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 07 Oct 2012 16:20:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Motorola phases out Webtop, points to a Lapdock-shy world

Posted: 07 Oct 2012 11:22 AM PDT

Motorola phases out Webtop, points to a Lapdock-shy world


Motorola phases out Webtop, points to a Lapdock-shy world
When Motorola launched its Webtop concept alongside the original Atrix 4G, it had grand visions of replacing our PCs with a smartphone, a Lapdock and some optimism for a mobile-focused future. Most of us don't appear to have shared that rose-tinted view, as Motorola has confirmed that devices from the Photon Q 4G LTE and Droid RAZR M onward don't carry Webtop and won't get it in the future. The firm is blunt in explaining the cut and says that "adoption has not been strong enough" -- we just weren't buying those desktop- and laptop-oriented docks in the large numbers Motorola would need to devote further attention. As CNET explains, the move isn't surprising in light of Google's cost cutting as well as an initial $500 Lapdock price that likely chilled any momentum, even after prices dropped to as little as $200 in the Atrix 2 era. We'd also point to a market that still favors budget laptops and tablets: when $400 will get you an entirely separate Transformer Pad TF300, albeit without a keyboard, it's hard to justify buying what amounts to an empty shell. At least we'll still have our PadFone to keep us company while you read the full statement below. Motorola's Webtop app helps users extend their smartphone experience to larger screens. While consumers around the world have adopted Webtop and the concept spurred a lot of innovation in the industry, the adoption has not been strong enough to justify continued resources being allocated to developing Webtop on future devices. We have also seen development of the Android operating system focus on the inclusion of more desktoplike features. Beginning with Photon Q and Droid Razr M/Droid Razr HD/Droid Razr Maxx HD, we will no longer be including Webtop on our products moving forward.Filed under: Cellphones, Peripherals, Mobile, GoogleMotorola phases out Webtop, points to a Lapdock-shy world originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 07 Oct 2012 13:20:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | CNET | Email this | Comments

How to handle your cookware like a pro

Posted: 07 Oct 2012 08:02 AM PDT

How to handle your cookware like a pro


How to handle your cookware like a pro
The vice president of merchandising at Sur La Table helps The Daily Meal master the intricacies of buying and maintaining cookware.

Inhabitat's Week in Green: solar panel printer, gold producing bacteria and a li...

Posted: 07 Oct 2012 08:02 AM PDT

Inhabitat's Week in Green: solar panel printer, gold producing bacteria and a life-size of horse made of computer keys


Inhabitat's Week in Green: solar panel printer, gold producing bacteria and a life-size of horse made of computer keys
Each week our friends at Inhabitat recap the week's most interesting green developments and clean tech news for us -- it's the Week in Green. Inhabitat is always interested in finding innovative uses for old technology, and this week we saw artists and designers from around the world produce new things from old, unused or outmoded gadgets. In Osaka, a local goldfish club has been transforming old phone booths into gigantic public fish tanks. In another large-scale art installation, Babis Panagiotidis used 18,000 recycled computer keys to make a life-size rocking horse. London artist Leonardo Ulian also makes beautiful, ornate mandalas from bits and pieces of old circuitry. And Benjamin Yates makes his unique coffee tables from recycled circuit boards, old VCRs and computer components.Continue reading Inhabitat's Week in Green: solar panel printer, gold producing bacteria and a life-size of horse made of computer keysFiled under: Misc, ScienceInhabitat's Week in Green: solar panel printer, gold producing bacteria and a life-size of horse made of computer keys originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 07 Oct 2012 10:30:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

8 Wonderfully creative window treatments

Posted: 07 Oct 2012 08:02 AM PDT

8 Wonderfully creative window treatments


8 Wonderfully creative window treatments
If regular curtains and rods feel too off the rack, look to these imaginative alternatives for one-of-a-kind windows.

Fisker responds to Romney's 'loser' debate comment

Posted: 07 Oct 2012 05:41 AM PDT

Fisker responds to Romney's 'loser' debate comment


Fisker responds to Romney's 'loser' debate comment
Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Legislation and Policy, USA, Fisker We're guessing Mitt Romney won't be hanging out with Cee Lo, Leo or the Bieber anytime soon. Or Fisker spokesman Roger Ormisher, for that matter. Those are the celebs that got their own Fisker Karma extended-range plug-in vehicles before the Republican presidential candidate called the California-based automaker a "loser" in last week's presidential debate with Barack Obama, according to Wired. Romney lumped Fisker in with Solyndra, Tesla and Ener1, all of which are green-oriented companies that Romney says shouldn't have received U.S. Department of Energy loans. Fisker spokesman Roger Ormisher responded by pointing out to Wired that the automaker has sold 1,500 cars and raised more than $1.2 billion in private equity, which he said was "quite an achievement for a small American business." Meanwhile, Tesla Motors has since reaffirmed that it would start repaying its loan earlier than mandated and got support from its Twitter community. One example: "Wait, did he just call Tesla a loser? Have you driven one? They are awesome." On the Fisker negativity, Romney may have company with Consumer Reports, which pretty much took apart the Karma in a review last month for, among other things, its long battery-recharge times, its cramped interior and its handling. That said, Delaware Online reported last month that Romney's running mate, Paul Ryan, appeared to support giving the U.S. Department of Energy enough "flexibility" to make its $529 million loan to Fisker. Ryan spokesman Brendan Buck denied that charge. Fisker drew down almost $200 million of the loan before funds were frozen because the company didn't meet delivery deadlines for the Karma.Fisker responds to Romney's 'loser' debate comment originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sun, 07 Oct 2012 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

SpaceX Dragon capsule launch gets go signal from NASA

Posted: 07 Oct 2012 05:41 AM PDT

SpaceX Dragon capsule launch gets go signal from NASA


SpaceX Dragon capsule launch gets go signal from NASA
One small step in May is poised to turn into one giant leap for space capitalism as NASA approved the Sunday evening launch of SpaceX's Dragon capsule. The scheduled trip comes just a little over four months after the project successfully completed a docking test by the unmanned private spacecraft with the International Space Station. The Sunday flight -- dubbed CRS-1 -- will have the Dragon capsule piggybacking on a Falcon 9 rocket to punch through the atmosphere while carrying more than a thousand pounds of cargo. The capsule will then dock with the station for about three weeks before being sent back to Earth to deliver more than a ton of scientific samples and used hardware from the ISS. The launch is scheduled for 8:35PM ET from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station barring a tantrum from Mother Nature (we've also seen our share of aborted SpaceX Dragon launches before so we're keeping our proverbial fingers crossed). NASA says that Orbital Sciences' competing Cygnus spacecraft and Antares rocket will also make a demo flight later this year. [Image credit: Jim Grossmann, NASA]Filed under: Transportation, Science, AltSpaceX Dragon capsule launch gets go signal from NASA originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 07 Oct 2012 08:01:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink SPACE.com | NASA | Email this | Comments

US and Russian space agencies to launch first year-long mission on the ISS

Posted: 07 Oct 2012 04:44 AM PDT

US and Russian space agencies to launch first year-long mission on the ISS


US and Russian space agencies to launch first year-long mission on the ISS
If you thought that year out around Europe was an eye opener, how about 12 months on the International Space Station? That's what's in store for two unnamed astronauts. Currently, the maximum stay on the ISS is six months, but in 2015, one Russian, and one American will work their way through the whole calendar, in a trip that could help pave the way for deep space travel. Plenty of data has already been collected about the effect microgravity has on the body, but less is known of the longer-term implications. NASA is already considering sending manned expeditions to near-Earth asteroids and Mars in the coming decades -- but the results from this excursion could prove invaluable. The names of the chosen two haven't been revealed, and the Soyuz capsule's (currently unaccounted for) third-seat has also sparked talk of another person possibly coming along for the ride. Time to re-plan that gap year?Filed under: Misc, Science, AltUS and Russian space agencies to launch first year-long mission on the ISS originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 07 Oct 2012 06:32:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Space.com | Email this | Comments

Pioneer's latest Raku Navi GPS units take commands from hand gestures

Posted: 07 Oct 2012 02:47 AM PDT

Pioneer's latest Raku Navi GPS units take commands from hand gestures


Pioneer's latest Raku Navi GPS units take commands from hand gestures
An AR heads-up display wasn't the only navigation hardware Pioneer showed off at CEATEC 2012. The firm also took the opportunity to tear the wraps off a new line of gesture-controlled Raku Navi GPS units. With the infrared-powered Air Gesture feature, drivers can wave their hand in front of a device to pull up a menu with commands such as setting their home or a personal haunt as a destination or skipping to the next tune on a playlist. Once a hand is retracted, the menu will be replaced with the usual map interface. Though the solution isn't completely hands-free, horizontal hand waves can be assigned one of ten different functions. Japanese store shelves will be lined with two dashboard-embeddable units by mid-October, while four console-independent models will join them in early November. As of now, there's no word if the hardware will make the pilgrimage stateside.Filed under: GPS, TransportationPioneer's latest Raku Navi GPS units take commands from hand gestures originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 07 Oct 2012 04:56:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink Gizmodo, Tech-On! | Pioneer | Email this | Comments

Sharp 'Moth Eye' LCD Panel demo shows off future HDTVs with less glare

Posted: 06 Oct 2012 11:57 PM PDT

Sharp 'Moth Eye' LCD Panel demo shows off future HDTVs with less glare


Sharp 'Moth Eye' LCD Panel demo shows off future HDTVs with less glare
While its high pixel density mobile displays stole much of the attention at CEATEC 2012, Sharp also has tech destined for bigger screens like this "Moth Eye Panel" that Engadget Japanese took a look at during the show. Thanks to nanoscale irregularities on its surface similar to the eye of a moth it claims to give bright colors and high contrast while cutting down glare as seen above (moth eye panel on the left) The technology isn't in use yet, but Sharp says the film has been produced in 60-, 70- and 80-inch sizes already, so if you thought the company's extra large and Elite HDTVs couldn't get any better, next year's model will probably have at least one way to prove you wrong.Continue reading Sharp 'Moth Eye' LCD Panel demo shows off future HDTVs with less glareFiled under: Displays, Home Entertainment, HDSharp 'Moth Eye' LCD Panel demo shows off future HDTVs with less glare originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 07 Oct 2012 02:23:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Engadget Japanese | Email this | Comments

Apple extends iCloud storage upgrade for MobileMe users another year

Posted: 06 Oct 2012 10:02 PM PDT

Apple extends iCloud storage upgrade for MobileMe users another year


Apple extends iCloud storage upgrade for MobileMe users another year
Apple's done its level best to lure help you over to iCloud from MobileMe, and it looks like it's not quite done yet. We're seeing reports from users who have received messages advising that the additional storage offered to ease the transition has been extended for another 12 months, sans cost to you. Whether a charge will kick in right away when that period ends, and at what price isn't made clear. But if you like to drag your data heels, or want to take your sweet time deciding if the new service is for you, it looks like luck is on your side. [Thanks, Jonathan C]Filed under: Desktops, Laptops, AppleApple extends iCloud storage upgrade for MobileMe users another year originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 07 Oct 2012 00:20:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Ask Engadget: best online 3D printer?

Posted: 06 Oct 2012 08:09 PM PDT

Ask Engadget: best online 3D printer?


Ask Engadget: best online 3D printer?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, then here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget inquiry is from Paul, who wants to experiment with additive manufacturing that's beyond the capacity of his Makerbot. If you're looking to ask one of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "Hi! I'd like to prototype some seriously complex jewelry and my Makerbot isn't up to the task. Can someone suggest a good online 3D printing service that also offers international shipping? Thanks!" 3D printing is so new that no service has made a name for itself above all others, so let's throw it open to the world's finest minds, our trusty readers. Hold your breath, count to ten, feel the Earth move... and then share your experiences in the comments below.Filed under: Misc, InternetAsk Engadget: best online 3D printer? originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 06 Oct 2012 22:27:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Mobile Miscellany: week of October 1st, 2012

Posted: 06 Oct 2012 07:12 PM PDT

Mobile Miscellany: week of October 1st, 2012


Mobile Miscellany: week of October 1st, 2012
If you didn't get enough in mobile news during the week, not to worry, because we've opened the firehose for the truly hardcore. This past week, FCC Chairman Genachowski weighed in on what must be done to keep the spectrum crunch from becoming a crisis, pricing leaked for the Motorola RAZR HD LTE at Rogers and Japan got a version of the Xperia V to call its own. These stories and more await after the break. So buy the ticket and take the ride as we explore the "best of the rest" for this week of October 1st, 2012.Continue reading Mobile Miscellany: week of October 1st, 2012Filed under: Cellphones, Wireless, Mobile, Samsung, SonyMobile Miscellany: week of October 1st, 2012 originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 06 Oct 2012 21:08:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments

Nano-SIMs reportedly popping up at T-Mobile stores, ready to welcome your iPhone 5

Posted: 06 Oct 2012 03:23 PM PDT

Nano-SIMs reportedly popping up at T-Mobile stores, ready to welcome your iPhone 5


Nano-SIMs reportedly popping up at T-Mobile stores, ready to welcome your iPhone 5
The iPhone 5 may not be ready for sale unlocked officially just yet, but that doesn't mean T-Mobile isn't ready to be your service provider. As evidenced by the photo above, the folks at TmoNews and YouTuber BigRicksChannel have confirmed the that the service provider is now selling iPhone 5-compatible Nano-SIMs. Of course, these'll work just fine with the Verizon-variant of the the 4-inch device, as it's technically unlocked out of the box. Need proof beyond a photo? Catch the the video after the break to see it connecting to T-Mobile's network for yourself.Continue reading Nano-SIMs reportedly popping up at T-Mobile stores, ready to welcome your iPhone 5Filed under: Cellphones, Mobile, Apple, T-MobileNano-SIMs reportedly popping up at T-Mobile stores, ready to welcome your iPhone 5 originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 06 Oct 2012 18:19:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink The Verge | TmoNews | Email this | Comments

Honda recalls 2002-2006 CR-V for fire risk

Posted: 06 Oct 2012 03:23 PM PDT

Honda recalls 2002-2006 CR-V for fire risk


Honda recalls 2002-2006 CR-V for fire risk
Honda Motor Co. is recalling CR-V crossovers from the 2002 to 2006 model years because an electrical switch in the driver's side door could melt and cause a fire.

Alt-week 10.6.12: supercomputers on the moon, hear the Earth sing and the future...

Posted: 06 Oct 2012 03:23 PM PDT

Alt-week 10.6.12: supercomputers on the moon, hear the Earth sing and the future of sports commentary


Alt-week 10.6.12: supercomputers on the moon, hear the Earth sing and the future of sports commentary
Alt-week peels back the covers on some of the more curious sci-tech stories from the last seven days. Normally we try to encourage you to join us around the warm alt-week campfire by teasing you about what diverse and exotic internet nuggets we have for you inside. Sadly, this week that's not the case. There's nothing for you here we're afraid. Not unless you like totally mind-blowing space videos, singing planets and AI / sports commentary-flavored cocktails, that is. Oh, you do? Well what do you know! Come on in... this is alt-week.Continue reading Alt-week 10.6.12: supercomputers on the moon, hear the Earth sing and the future of sports commentaryFiled under: Misc, Science, AltAlt-week 10.6.12: supercomputers on the moon, hear the Earth sing and the future of sports commentary originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 06 Oct 2012 17:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | | Email this | Comments