It's August 21st, which equates to good news for hopeful buyers of the Samsung Conquer 4G. The latest device cranking out the WiMAX is available for a Benjamin starting today, both online and at Sprint stores. As a refresher, the Conquer brings a 1GHz CPU with Android 2.3.4 and 512MB of RAM, and does so using a 3.5-inch HVGA display. So no more rumors, no more Blurrycam shots, and definitely no more presales -- it's time for the real deal, if you're so inclined to make the two-year commitment.
Sony NEX-VG20E Handycam, Sony camcorder, Full HD video, high resolution, still photo, HD camcorder, Handycam, NEX VG20E
The new Handycam NEX-VG20E camcorder from Sony broadens creative possibilities for shooting cinematic Full HD video and high-resolution still photos. Offering comprehensive manual controls, the NEX-VG20E lets videographers explore the artistic potential of the growing range of E-Mount lenses. With refined ergonomics, improved imaging quality and upgraded sound, it provides several enhancements over the acclaimed NEX-VG10E – the world’s first consumer HD camcorder with interchangeable lenses.
With a resolution of 16.1 effective megapixels, the Exmor APS HD CMOS sensor assures outstanding video image quality, with extremely low noise in low light. It also captures pristine 16 megapixel still photos, with RAW format support for all the post-processing flexibility that’s familiar to DSLR users.
Whether you’re shooting video or stills, the large sensor rivals the expressive picture quality of a DSLR camera. This allows the creation of beautiful background defocus (‘bokeh’) effects with your E-mount lens collection.
Full HD video shooting in AVCHD format is now complemented by a choice of 50p and 25p (progressive) frame rate options. Footage shot at 25p can be enhanced with Cinema Tone Gamma and Cinema Tone Colour for an even richer, more cinematic look.
Dialogue and other sounds are captured by the precision Quad Capsule Spatial Array Microphone that now supports stereo and 5.1 channel surround. There’s a new audio level control, plus pro-style jacks for an external mic and monitoring headphones.
Several ergonomic refinements let videographers shoot HD video and stills in even greater comfort. The camcorder’s handgrip has been redesigned that offers excellent stability. Allowing manual adjustment of exposure, iris and other settings, the pro-style control dial can now be accessed even when LCD panel is closed.
Button layout has also been revised with ‘hard’ function keys, direct access to each shooting mode (Iris, Shutter speed, Program AE), a second REC button for low-angle shots and expanded focus button – all sited for intuitive operation without taking your eye from the electronic viewfinder.
Shots can also be framed and reviewed on the 7.5cm/3″ Xtra Fine LCD that features TruBlack technology for clear, high contrast images. The screen can be rotated over a 270 degree range for easy framing in any position, even with the camera held low. Touch panel operation simplifies fingertip operation of shooting functions.
The Handycam NEX-VG20EH comes with the SEL18200 F3.5-6.3 E-mount lens. With a wide 11x optical zoom range and built-in Optical SteadyShot, this versatile lens offers smooth, quiet autofocus operation during movies and still shooting.
There is now a choice of seven E-mount lenses to cover virtually any shooting situation. Also available, the optional LA-EA2 lens mount adaptor gives even wider compatibility with the established family of A-mount optics. Translucent Mirror Technology supports high-speed phase-detection AF that keeps even fast-moving subjects in focus.
The Handycam NEX-VG20E Full HD E-mount system camcorder from Sony is available from November 2011.
The US Department of Agriculture announced this week that it will make available more that $103 million aimed at bringing broadband to areas of the US with little or no access to the technology. The money will go toward 23 projects in areas including parts of Oklahoma damaged by a recent tornado and a mountainous region in Northern California, which will provide internet access to native tribes. For the full list of recipients, check the source link below.
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Agriculture Secretary Vilsack Announces Projects to Provide Broadband to Rural Communities
WASHINGTON, D.C., August 22, 2011 – Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced today that 18 recipients will receive more than $103 million in funding for 23 projects to provide broadband services to unserved and underserved rural communities. Residents and businesses that will benefit from this funding include those in an Oklahoma community damaged by a tornado earlier this year.
"Without broadband, rural communities, agricultural producers and business owners face a substantial challenge," Vilsack said. "These loans and grants will bring the benefits of broadband, including new educational, business and public health and safety opportunities, to residents living in some of the most remote parts of our Nation."
One of the successful applications is from Wichita Online, Inc., which will use a USDA Rural Development Community Connect program grant to provide broadband to the rural community of Tushka Town, Okla. The community was hit by a tornado on April 14, 2011, that killed two people and destroyed or damaged a number of buildings in the community. Rural Development's $480,000 grant to Wichita Online, Inc. will provide residents with broadband service and new opportunities for economic development.
The Community Connect program has been instrumental in providing broadband access to residents in remote areas and low-income communities. This year, the Karuk Tribe in Orleans, Calif., will receive a Community Connect grant to provide Internet services to 570 tribal members in a mountainous region of Northern California. Of the Community Connect grants being announced today, seven grants will provide broadband to communities that are plagued by persistent poverty.
In addition to the Community Connect grants, Secretary Vilsack announced $90 million in loan funding for five broadband infrastructure projects. For example, the Dubois Telephone Exchange, for example, has been selected for an $11.4 million loan to provide broadband to nearly all of the businesses and residents in Wyoming's Upper Wind River country and Little Snake River Valley. The loan is expected to create 100 jobs and save up to 150 others. Recreation and tourism are the leading industries in Dubois and the Upper Wind River Country, and broadband will enable those industries to thrive. The Vernon Telephone Cooperative, in Westby, Wis., has been selected for a $24 million loan to build a Fiber-To-The-Premises (FTTP) system in areas outside the town. Vernon also plans to make other system improvements in several area exchanges.
The infrastructure loans announced today are in addition to $192 million in loans Secretary Vilsack announced on July 27, 2011, through USDA Rural Development's Telecommunications Infrastructure Program.
The Community Connect program provides grants to rural, economically challenged communities. Funds can be used to construct, acquire or lease facilities to deploy broadband to community facilities such as schools and public safety buildings, as well as residents and businesses in the community. Each project requires a matching contribution and must serve an area where broadband is not available. The grantee must agree to provide local community centers in the selected towns with at least 10 computers which are accessible free for two years. USDA funding for all loans and grants is contingent upon the recipient meeting the terms of the loan or grant agreement.
For a complete list of the awardees, click here.
In June, President Obama signed an Executive Order establishing the first White House Rural Council, chaired by Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. The White House Rural Council will work throughout government to create policies to promote economic prosperity and a high quality of life in rural communities.
Since taking office, President Obama's Administration has taken significant steps to improve the lives of rural Americans and has provided broad support for rural communities. The Obama Administration has set goals of modernizing infrastructure by providing broadband access to 10 million Americans, expanding educational opportunities for students in rural areas, and providing affordable health care. In the long term, these unparalleled rural investments will help ensure that America's rural communities are repopulating, self-sustaining and thriving economically.
USDA, through its Rural Development mission area, administers and manages housing, business and community infrastructure and facility programs through a national network of state and local offices. Rural Development has an existing portfolio of more than $155 billion in loans and loan guarantees. These programs are designed to improve the economic stability of rural communities, businesses, residents, farmers and ranchers and improve the quality of life in rural America.
We always appreciate a good 2001 reference, but we can't say we expected to see one crop up in Samsung's ongoing legal dispute with Apple. As noted by FOSS Patents' Florian Mueller though, that's just what Samsung has done in an opposition brief filed last night, which cites the tablet-like devices pictured above as an example of prior art for Apple's iPad-related design patent. Of course, that's just one small part of Samsung's overall defense, but it is certainly one of the most interesting we've seen so far. Head on past the break for the film clip in question.
Logitech Tablet Accessories, Logitech Joystick, Logitech Keyboard, iPad 2Fold Up Keyboard, Fold Up Keyboard, Logitech Joystick for iPad, Logitech Joystick for iPad
Today Logitech unveiled two new accessories that help you make the most of your tablet. The Logitech Fold-Up Keyboard for iPad 2 is the ideal tool for comfy, on-the-go typing, and the Logitech Joystick for iPad offers more accurate, immersive game play. Moving tablet use beyond the traditional touchpad strokes, both devices empower you to interact with your iPad more efficiently, extending your tablet experience into the world around you.
“Many people are using tablets in ways that require more than fingertip scrolling, pointing and pressing on the touchpad,” said Azmat Ali, Logitech vice president of mobile and tablet products. “Whether you’re typing notes, emailing, or playing games, both devices greatly extend flexibility when it comes to creating content or enjoying entertainment.”
Highlights of Logitech’s new iPad tablet accessories:
Logitech Fold-Up Keyboard for iPad 2
The Logitech Fold-Up Keyboard for iPad 2 is your perfect on-the-go solution. With a full-size, Bluetooth keyboard and stand, you simply open and type, and close and forget. Closed, the keyboard rests securely underneath your iPad 2. Open, it holds the tablet at an ideal angle for typing and taking notes. Unlike folio-style Bluetooth keyboards, the Logitech Fold-Up Keyboard for iPad 2 is full-sized for comfy typing. And it charges over USB, so you never need to worry about replacing batteries. The device wakes up and is ready to use as soon as it’s unfolded, and turns itself off automatically when folded to save battery power.
Logitech Joystick for iPad
The Logitech Joystick for iPad is the perfect gaming companion for your iPad or iPad 2. No one likes to lose a point or go down in defeat because their thumb misses the control area. The Logitech Joystick for iPad gives you a thumb-stick style game controller that you can use with just about any game with an on-screen joystick or d-pad. The device attaches to your iPad with suction cups that are easy to apply and easy to remove. And the coiled spring provides force feedback that automatically returns the joystick to the center position.
Pricing and Availability
The Logitech Fold-Up Keyboard is expected to be available in the U.S. and Europe beginning in September, for a suggested retail price of $129.99 (U.S.). The Logitech Joystick is expected to be available in the U.S. and Europe beginning in September, for a suggested retail price of $19.99 (U.S.).
Poor Plastic Logic, one of the early innovators and hype builders in the e-reader race, has never been able to get its act together. But, following an initial investment of $150 million from Russian firm Rusnano in January, it seems the company has finally found a home for its beleaguered readers. After demoing the units for Prime Minister Vladimir Putin, the new investors secured a deal for 1,000 of the Que descendents to be given a trial in Russian schools. Perhaps redemption will come for Plastic Logic by succeeding where the Kindle was deemed such an absolute failure.
Now that you've seen high-quality images of the HTC Bliss with the screen turned off, are you curious to see what it looks like when it's on? The same folks at XDA.cn who got hands-on time with the Bliss have now come forth with possible screenshots showing the phone is indeed running on a beta version of Sense UI 3.5. What's new here? Even though the lock screen uses the same ring-style unlocking feature as its predecessor, it appears that the new UI will feature two dedicated buttons at the bottom of the home panel -- for the app tray on the left and phone on the right -- and refreshed widgets (including a larger weather panel), among other minor changes. Word also has it that HTC is removing hardware requirements that restricted version 3.0 to the company's highest-end devices, which gives hope to millions of Sense users still on an older, more streamlined UI. More screenshots can be found at the source link.
The UK has plenty of endearing olde worlde attributes, but its lack of fast mobile data access isn't one of them. The country has yet to enter the LTE era and, according to a crowdsourced survey by the BBC, it's still plagued by "not spots" where you can't get 3G reception either. More than 40,000 Brits downloaded a tailor-made Android app that recorded their local street level access and their results proved that many city centers and rural areas are effectively no-go swamplands for smartphone users -- although coverage was good over 70- to 80-percent of Her Majesty's territory. It's about time we did a similar survey in the US. Oh, and check out the source link to watch a Galaxy II-owning village vicar vent his frustrations in the politest possible way.
Just because you're packing an S40 or S60 device doesn't mean you should have to miss out on the haps. That's why Nokia Beta Labs is debuting a pilot app called Nokia Nearby, a hyper-local search app -- geared toward emerging markets with a heavy concentration of S40 handsets -- that helps you find restaurants, movie theaters and other locations within close range of your current location. Fortunately, GPS isn't required for the service to work properly, which makes it even more tempting to at least try out. Glance at the video below the break to get a quick demonstration, and move over to the source link to download the beta program.
Nokia today announced the Nokia 600, its third smartphone built for the new operating system update, Symbian Belle. The Nokia 600 is designed to provide an all-in-one entertainment hub and is Nokia's loudest smartphone to date. See video above.
The Nokia 600 is made to get the party moving with a super loud speaker inside (it’s rated at a window-rattling 106 phon). Option two for music is an FM transmitter so you can blast your music through the nearest radio; and third, the FM receiver has an internal antennae, so you don’t have to plug in earphones to listen.
So you spent all of that money on an iPhone 4 -- do you really want to cover it up with some discount protection? Graft Concepts' new case is nearly as snazzy as the handset it was designed to protect. The Leverage is made out of polycarbonate with a matte finish and features a metal latch that secures it to the handset. The case is up for sale now, at a fittingly pricey $60. You can pick up additional backplates for $7 a piece.
This new bunch all began with a paper leak way back in late June, remembering the new naming scheme with codenames Fate, Cindy, Zeta, and Helen. All of this now ends as Nokia has formally unveiled three new phones that would be having the new Symbian Belle operating system. The official page mentions of the loudest, brightest, and the smallest smartphones Nokia has to offer.
The 600, being the loudest, has a unique feature that goes around music. From the speakers, FM Radio, and the MP3 player, down to the long battery life for accommodating constant media play, the 600 is perfect for the audiophile. The 700 is known to be the smallest but has the biggest features. First of all, the body and screen are scratchproof; the browser has fast connection speeds, and it also has NFC just like 600. The brightest 701 relies on the quality of its visuals to provide a richer mobile experience.
Source: Nokia Symbian Belle Page
Cricket Communications, Inc. and Samsung Telecommunications America today announced the launch of the Samsung Comment (SCH-r380).
Built with messaging in mind, the Comment is ideal for consumers looking for a fast and convenient way to stay connected on Cricket's reliable data network. The Comment features a stylish bar design with a full QWERTY keyboard to send threaded/chat-style text messages. It is also preloaded with Cricket Navigator; MyBackup which conveniently and safely backs up your contact list; and MyHomeScreen for one touch access to weather, news, sports, horoscope, MyAccount, social networks, email and more. Users can expect a premium multimedia experience with the Comment's built-in mobile web browser, MP3 music player, 3.5mm headset jack and a 1.3MP camera. Additional features include a 2.4" QVGA display, stereo Bluetooth, voice recognition and tools to organize your day. Users can personalize the Comment by using Cricket Storefront to download applications, games, ringtones and wallpapers.
"Cricket is excited to offer the Samsung Comment to our customers who are looking for an easy to use QWERTY bar phone with an impressive thin and modern design," said Matt Stoiber, vice president and general management.
If you don't pay close attention, you may not even notice it, but Samsung sneaked a preview of an American Galaxy S II variant into a promo video it released earlier today. For the entire clip you stare at the version we're all familiar with, which sports a large home button on the bottom. Then, at the very end, a slightly rounder handset with four capacitive buttons and no large home key pops up on the screen. It looks a bit like the T-Mobile-bound Hercules, but not quite as curvy around the edges. It could be Sprint's Epic 4G Touch or perhaps an as yet unseen model destined for AT&T or Verizon. Check out the full promo video after the break.
[Thanks, Daniel]
Want to get your BBM on in style without spending a fortune on RIM's latest trio? Say hello to the new 11mm (0.43 inch) thin BlackBerry Curve, now official in 3 variants -- the dual-mode GSM / CDMA 9370, the GSM / UMTS 9360 and the CDMA-only 9350. These long rumored handsets feature an 800MHz CPU, 512MB RAM, a tiny 2.44-inch HVGA+ (480×360 pixel) display, a five megapixel EDoF camera (with LED flash and VGA video recording), Bluetooth, WiFi b/g/n with UMA, GPS / aGPS and NFC. While there's no sign of that new-fangled touch screen technology, you'll find BlackBerry 7 under the hood, along with a 1000mAh battery to keep it ticking all day long, 512MB of built-in storage (1GB on the 9370) and microSD card support (up to 32GB). RIM is still mum on pricing, but the new BlackBerry Curve is "expected to be available from carriers in Canada this month and from other carriers around the world beginning in September" -- including Vodafone, based on the video (and PR) after the break. We'll have a hands-on later today so stay tuned for more.
Update: It's official, the BlackBerry Curve 9350 will be coming to Sprint on September 9th for a perfectly reasonable $80 -- provided you're willing to sign a two year contract and after a $50 mail-in rebate. We've tacked on the PR after the break.
BlackBerry Curve 9350/9360/9370
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RIM Introduces New BlackBerry Curve Smartphones
Sleek, fast and easy-to-use smartphones feature next-generation BlackBerry 7 OS and deliver smooth social experiences wherever you go
Waterloo, ON - Research In Motion (RIM) (NASDAQ: RIMM; TSX: RIM) today announced three new BlackBerry® smartphones featuring the BlackBerry® 7 Operating System (OS). The all-new BlackBerry® Curve™ 9350, BlackBerry® Curve™ 9360 and BlackBerry Curve™ 9370 smartphone are exciting additions to the popular BlackBerry Curve series.
These new models are designed to address a large and important segment of the global mobile phone market where customers are looking to upgrade their existing feature phone or existing BlackBerry Curve with an affordable, easy-to-use, full-featured and socially-connected smartphone.
"These new models will build on the incredible success of the BlackBerry Curve line and further expand the largest global launch of BlackBerry smartphones in our history," said Mike Lazaridis, President and Co-CEO at Research In Motion. "The new BlackBerry Curve smartphones are absolutely stunning and offer a significant performance upgrade with an unmatched mobile social experience for the millions of feature phone users in the market as well as our existing Curve customers."
Everything You Need
The new BlackBerry Curve smartphones are slim, stylish and simply beautiful. They are ergonomically designed with a comfortable and iconic keyboard for fast, accurate typing and an optical trackpad for easy, one-handed navigation. GPS and Wi-Fi® support are also included, as well as a 5MP camera with flash and video recording so that memories can be captured and instantly shared on social networks. The microSD/SDHC slot supports up to 32 GB memory cards for additional media storage.
In addition to supporting the new BlackBerry 7 OS, the new BlackBerry Curve smartphones feature a range of powerful hardware enhancements including upgraded processors, displays and memory, and built-in support for NFC (Near Field Communications), a new technology that is enabling many exciting capabilities, including the ability to pair accessories or read SmartPoster tags with a simple tap of the smartphone.
Next-Generation BlackBerry 7 OS
BlackBerry 7 introduces a next generation BlackBerry browser which combines the dramatically improved performance of the advanced WebKit browser engine with the hardware enhancements in the new BlackBerry Curve smartphones to deliver a significantly faster, more fluid web browsing experience. Additional enhancements to this next generation BlackBerry browser have also enabled smoother navigation and optimized HTML5 performance for incredible gaming and video experiences.
BlackBerry 7 OS also includes a number of other pre-loaded applications and integrated functionality for increased productivity and collaboration right out of the box. The Premium version of Documents To Go is included free of charge, offering users powerful document editing features as well as a native PDF document viewer. BlackBerry® Protect is also pre-loaded*, offering customers the peace of mind that personal data can be backed up and secured in the cloud. With BlackBerry Protect, users can locate their misplaced BlackBerry smartphone using GPS or remotely turn up the ringer for an audible notification if their handset is close-by. BlackBerry® Balance (announced May 2, 2011) is integrated in BlackBerry 7, allowing users to enjoy the full BlackBerry smartphone experience for both work and personal purposes without compromising the IT department's need for advanced security and IT controls. The popular universal search capability has also been enhanced with support for voice-activated search, so users can now simply speak to begin searching their device and the web for information.
Best In Class Communications and Social Experiences
The next generation BlackBerry Curve smartphones deliver the world's best mobile communications and social experiences with a highly refined and integrated suite of phone, email, messaging and social apps to keep users connected and productive throughout the day.
The latest release of BBM™ (BlackBerry® Messenger) is pre-loaded and now extends the real time BBM experience to a range of other apps, such as Foursquare, allowing users to easily interact with each other from within the 'BBM connected' app (see separate announcement on July 28, 2011).
The updated Social Feeds (2.0) app has been extended to capture updates from media, podcasts, and favorites all in one consolidated view. The new Facebook® for BlackBerry smartphones (2.0) app introduces features like Facebook chat and BBM integration that makes it easier for users to connect with their Facebook friends in real time utilizing push notifications. Twitter for BlackBerry smartphones also delivers a deeply integrated experience including use of real time push notifications and Social Feeds integration.
Availability
The BlackBerry Curve 9350, 9360 and 9370 smartphones are expected to be available from carriers in Canada this month and from other carriers around the world beginning in September. Availability dates and pricing for specific devices from specific carriers will be announced in conjunction with RIM's partners.
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BlackBerry Curve 9350 Debuts Sept. 9 for Just $79.99 from Sprint
Stunning new BlackBerry Curve 9350 is fast, affordable, easy-to-use, full-featured and socially connected
OVERLAND PARK, Kan.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The next generation of Research In Motion's (RIM) (NASDAQ: RIMM; TSX: RIM) popular BlackBerry® Curve™ series of smartphones, the stunning new BlackBerry Curve 9350, comes to Sprint (NYSE: S) on Friday, Sept. 9, offering the latest BlackBerry operating system – BlackBerry® 7. The new BlackBerry Curve 9350 is a fast, affordable, easy-to-use, full-featured and socially connected smartphone that is as beautiful as it is functional.
The slim and stylish smartphone will cost just $79.99 (excluding taxes) with a new line or eligible upgrade and two-year service agreement, after a $50 mail-in rebate via reward card1 and be available in all Sprint sales channels, including Sprint Stores, Business Sales, Telesales (1-800-SPRINT1) and web sales (www.sprint.com). Sprint Business customers may qualify to get BlackBerry Curve 9350 for $49.99 (excluding taxes) on a business account with a new line or eligible upgrade and new one- or two-year service agreement, after a $50 mail-in rebate via reward card1.
"It is exciting to see the BlackBerry Curve line continue to evolve, building upon past success," said David Owens, vice president – Product Development, Sprint. "This latest iteration offers the recognizable form factor our customers have come to enjoy, while adding powerful new features and innovative apps of BlackBerry 7 to deliver the smoothest and fastest BlackBerry Curve experience to date."
The BlackBerry Curve 9350 smartphone offers a full QWERTY keyboard and trackpad for easy one-handed navigation and keeps users connected by allowing them to easily share moments through pictures and videos via MMS, as well as by instant message with world-class IM services like BBM™ (BlackBerry® Messenger). With easy access to social networking sites like Flickr®, MySpace and Facebook®, this smartphone provides smooth integration to keep users up to speed on what's happening in their personal and professional lives.
Key features include:
BlackBerry App World™, the official app store front for BlackBerry smartphones offering customization, fun and productivity
Near Field Communications (NFC) support for a secure exchange of information between NFC-enabled devices over a very short distance
5MP camera with HD video capture, flash and zoom
512MB RAM
2GB microSD card included, with support for up to 32GB microSD card
BlackBerry PlayBook support with BlackBerry Bridge™ (BlackBerry Bridge is available as a free download on BlackBerry App World)
DataViz Docs To Go® Premium suite preloaded, for editing Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint files from anywhere
Wi-Fi® (802.11 b/g/n)
Bluetooth® 2.1+EDR support
Smoother and Faster with BlackBerry 7
With BlackBerry 7, the BlackBerry Browser is significantly enhanced to provide a faster and more fluid user experience and includes optimized HTML5 performance for incredible gaming and video experiences.
Building upon the Universal Search feature introduced in BlackBerry 6, BlackBerry 7 expands the capability to include voice-activated search. This new capability makes it easier and more convenient to search for content on the smartphone or web.
BlackBerry 7 also integrates BlackBerry® Balance™, which separates personal content from corporate content, giving users the freedom and flexibility to use the smartphone for personal email, Facebook®, Twitter®, multimedia, games and other apps, while satisfying the very real need for corporate data to be highly secure and manageable. BlackBerry Balance works in conjunction with BlackBerry® Enterprise Server 5.0.3, which provides a number of unique IT policy controls, such as wiping only corporate data or blocking work-related content and apps from being copied or forwarded to personal contacts.
BlackBerry Curve 9350 requires activation on one of Sprint's Everything Data plans plus a required $10 Premium Data add-on charge for smartphones. Sprint's Everything Data plan with Any Mobile, AnytimeSM includes unlimited web, texting and calling to and from any mobile in America while on the Sprint Network, starting at just $69.99 per month plus required $10 Premium Data add-on charge – a savings of $40 per month versus Verizon's comparable plan with unlimited talk, text and 2GB web or $10 per month versus Verizon's 450-minute plan with unlimited text and 2GB web. (Pricing excludes taxes and surcharges.)
Sprint was unbeaten among major wireless carriers for customer satisfaction according to results from the 2011 American Customer Satisfaction Index. In addition to tying for first place among wireless carriers, Sprint was also the number one most improved company in customer satisfaction, across all industries, during the last three years, according to the survey.
About Sprint Nextel
Sprint Nextel offers a comprehensive range of wireless and wireline communications services bringing the freedom of mobility to consumers, businesses and government users. Sprint Nextel served more than 52 million customers at the end of 2Q 2011 and is widely recognized for developing, engineering and deploying innovative technologies, including the first wireless 4G service from a national carrier in the United States; offering industry-leading mobile data services, leading prepaid brands including Virgin Mobile USA, Boost Mobile, and Assurance Wireless; instant national and international push-to-talk capabilities; and a global Tier 1 Internet backbone. Newsweek ranked Sprint No. 6 in its 2010 Green Rankings, listing it as one of the nation's greenest companies, the highest of any telecommunications company. You can learn more and visit Sprint at www.sprint.com or www.facebook.com/sprint and www.twitter.com/sprint.
1The American Express Prepaid Reward Card ("Card") provided in connection with this Rebate offer is a prepaid Card that is usable only at U.S. merchants that accept American Express Cards. Some limitations apply. Offer valid only in the U.S. and Puerto Rico. The Card is not redeemable for cash (except where required by law) and does not provide ATM access. Use of Card constitutes acknowledgement that it is given as a reward and no consideration, value, or money has been paid by the holder to American Express in exchange for this Card. USE OF CARD IS SUBJECT TO THE CARDHOLDER AGREEMENT. SUBJECT TO APPLICABLE LAW, A $3.00 MONTHLY FEE WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST CARD BALANCE, STARTING SIX MONTHS AFTER CARD ISSUANCE. Card expires six years after the date of issuance if not depleted before. For BALANCE, customer service and Cardholder Agreement, visit americanexpress.com/sprint or call 1-866-608-3756. Card issued by AEPCMC under license from American Express Prepaid Card Management Corporation, Travel Related Services Company, Inc.
The BlackBerry and RIM families of related marks, images and symbols are the exclusive properties and trademarks of Research In Motion Limited.
The HTC Bliss is undoubtedly going through the typical pre-launch routine: it's passed through the ranks of the FCC, received its first Blurrycam session, and now we're finally seeing the upcoming device up close and personal. The folks at XDA China got their hands on one and took a few high-quality images for the world to see, which means we're probably not too far away from the phone's forthcoming release. They confirmed that the Bliss will in fact run on HTC Sense 3.5, feature a front-facing camera, and that it will come in a variety of colors. So, will we find this on display at next week's HTC meetup? Or maybe our team will get some hands-on time at IFA? And will this "female-oriented" smartphone find a place with its intended demographic? Hopefully the wait is almost over.
Because tablets were made to consume data, Sprint's launching an alternative pay model for those hesitant to enter into long-term contracts. Available now from the Hesse-led carrier, HTC EVO View 4G owners can select a per day, week, or even month data pass according to their wireless appetite. If you're amongst the shackled hordes currently subscribing to a monthly package, you're gonna have to sit this one out. For the commitment-phobic, however, there's a $14.99 day plan that nets users 150MB of 3G / 4G use, a $29.99 week plan that ups the ante to 500MB, and the top end $49.99 month pass that serves up 1.5GB of wireless radio soup. In the event you haven't been sufficiently seduced, the third place network's even thrown in a "free day" promo pass to get you hooked started on that "third device." Be sure to head to the source for the full à la carte breakdown.
BlackBerry Curve 9350
The next generation of Research In Motion’s (RIM) popular BlackBerry Curve series of smartphones, the stunning new BlackBerry Curve 9350, comes to Sprint on Friday, Sept. 9, offering the latest BlackBerry operating system – BlackBerry 7. The new BlackBerry Curve 9350 is a fast, affordable, easy-to-use, full-featured and socially connected smartphone that is as beautiful as it is functional.
The slim and stylish smartphone will cost just $79.99 (excluding taxes) with a new line or eligible upgrade and two-year service agreement, after a $50 mail-in rebate via reward card1 and be available in all Sprint sales channels, including Sprint Stores, Business Sales, Telesales (1-800-SPRINT1) and web sales (www.sprint.com). Sprint Business customers may qualify to get BlackBerry Curve 9350 for $49.99 (excluding taxes) on a business account with a new line or eligible upgrade and new one- or two-year service agreement, after a $50 mail-in rebate via reward card1.
“It is exciting to see the BlackBerry Curve line continue to evolve, building upon past success,” said David Owens, vice president – Product Development, Sprint. “This latest iteration offers the recognizable form factor our customers have come to enjoy, while adding powerful new features and innovative apps of BlackBerry 7 to deliver the smoothest and fastest BlackBerry Curve experience to date.”
The BlackBerry Curve 9350 smartphone offers a full QWERTY keyboard and trackpad for easy one-handed navigation and keeps users connected by allowing them to easily share moments through pictures and videos via MMS, as well as by instant message with world-class IM services like BBM (BlackBerry Messenger). With easy access to social networking sites like Flickr, MySpace and Facebook, this smartphone provides smooth integration to keep users up to speed on what’s happening in their personal and professional lives.
Key features include:
BlackBerry App World, the official app store front for BlackBerry smartphones offering customization, fun and productivity
Near Field Communications (NFC) support for a secure exchange of information between NFC-enabled devices over a very short distance
5MP camera with HD video capture, flash and zoom
512MB RAM
2GB microSD card included, with support for up to 32GB microSD card
BlackBerry PlayBook support with BlackBerry Bridge (BlackBerry Bridge is available as a free download on BlackBerry App World)
DataViz Docs To Go Premium suite preloaded, for editing Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint files from anywhere
Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g/n)
Bluetooth 2.1+EDR support
Smoother and Faster with BlackBerry 7
With BlackBerry 7, the BlackBerry Browser is significantly enhanced to provide a faster and more fluid user experience and includes optimized HTML5 performance for incredible gaming and video experiences.
Building upon the Universal Search feature introduced in BlackBerry 6, BlackBerry 7 expands the capability to include voice-activated search. This new capability makes it easier and more convenient to search for content on the smartphone or web.
BlackBerry 7 also integrates BlackBerry Balance, which separates personal content from corporate content, giving users the freedom and flexibility to use the smartphone for personal email, Facebook, Twitter, multimedia, games and other apps, while satisfying the very real need for corporate data to be highly secure and manageable. BlackBerry Balance works in conjunction with BlackBerry Enterprise Server 5.0.3, which provides a number of unique IT policy controls, such as wiping only corporate data or blocking work-related content and apps from being copied or forwarded to personal contacts.
BlackBerry Curve 9350 requires activation on one of Sprint’s Everything Data plans plus a required $10 Premium Data add-on charge for smartphones. Sprint’s Everything Data plan with Any Mobile, AnytimeSM includes unlimited web, texting and calling to and from any mobile in America while on the Sprint Network, starting at just $69.99 per month plus required $10 Premium Data add-on charge – a savings of $40 per month versus Verizon’s comparable plan with unlimited talk, text and 2GB web or $10 per month versus Verizon’s 450-minute plan with unlimited text and 2GB web. (Pricing excludes taxes and surcharges.)
We've been wondering what would happen if the infinitely resourceful Ben Heck got his hands on the powerful Android ADK. Thankfully, in the most recent episode of the accomplished modder's show, our curiosity is satiated. The crafty Wisconsinite tackles a reader request -- to recreate the soothing motion of a car ride and help put a three-month-old baby to sleep. Mr. Heck uses the accelerometer in his phone to record the bounce and sway from the backseat as he drives around. He then draws up some code that will feed that data to the Arduino-powered ADK and move a series of servos that will tilt and shake a child's car seat. Sadly, the completion of the project will have to wait till the next exciting episode, but by the end of the installment embedded after the break you do get to see a scale model. What are you waiting for? Click that little read more link for PR and video... you know you want to.
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Ben Heck Uses Google's Arduino-Based ADK to Mod Baby Car Seat Motion Simulator in element14's "The Ben Heck Show"
Ben explores new Android Open Source accessory standard to build motion simulator that helps new parents soothe fussy babies
CHICAGO – Aug. 22, 2011 – In the latest episode of the "The Ben Heck Show," sponsored by element14, the first collaborative community and electronics store for design engineers and electronics enthusiasts, modding guru Ben Heck employs Google's Android Open Accessory Development Kit (ADK) to fulfill a viewer's request to create a baby car seat that simulates the calming motion of riding in a car. The kit's Open Accessory standard allows enthusiasts and developers alike to build accessories that can interact with an assortment of Android-powered devices.
"Smartphones are chock-full of applications and capabilities, but few users actually get the chance to unleash their full potential – using software development to go beyond in-phone applications," said Ben. "The car seat motion simulator is a great way to showcase how creative integration with the ADK can perform real world tasks – in this case, calming a fussy baby without emptying your gas tank!"
Ben walks viewers through the preliminary steps of loading the ADK software and code onto his computer and smartphone. Once programming is completed, a quick how-to and demo of the platform's I/O functionality prompts Ben to put his new gadgets to work as he recruits programmer and friend Chris Kraft to create an Android application that senses car motion using an accelerometer. After a cruise around the block to collect motion data with his smartphone, Ben uses the ADK to build a mock-up of his simulator design to test servos that will simulate car motions for the car seat.
"Ben's latest quest gives viewers a glimpse at the design power of Open Source technology and collaboration," said Kevin Yapp, chief marketing officer, Premier Farnell. "Modders, developers and even parents will enjoy watching Ben turn a piece of technology into something that has practical, real world applications."
Fans of the show are invited to join the element14 community to send Ben a challenge for a future build, engage with community members, and enter for a chance to win one of Ben's builds.
About "The Ben Heck Show"
"The Ben Heck Show" is a bi-weekly online television series aired in English that's dedicated to the science and art of system and hardware modding with a global audience of design engineers, students and electronic enthusiasts. Sponsored exclusively by element14, each episode spotlights Ben's mods of popular electronic devices while educating viewers on the underlying technology powering each project.
About element14
Launched in June 2009, element14 is the first, innovative information portal and eCommunity specifically built for electronic design engineers. The community recently unveiled its element14 knode, a unique gateway to solutions that enables engineers to quickly research, design, develop and prototype in a single, intelligent environment. element14 is an innovative offering from Premier Farnell plc (LSE:pfl), FTSE 250, a leader in multi-channel electronics distribution trading throughout Europe (Farnell), the Americas (Newark) and Asia Pacific (element14). The company had group sales of £990.8m and underlying profits of £93.3m last year.
After multiple spec and picture leaks, we seem to have finally hit the mother-lode with even more details of Sony's soon-to-be-released A77 DSLR. With a reported Exmor HD CMOS sensor, the camera is said to work at ISO 100-16000 with an expandable ISO 50 option and 1/8000 shutter speed. Rumors are swirling that the camera has a 19 point AF sensor and 12fps burst, rather than the previously leaked specs citing an 11 point AF and 10fps burst. It reportedly runs on a Bionz processor and has built-in flash and GPS as well, and has enough juice to capture 500 shots on a single charge. Word on the street is that there's a TrueBlack 921k swiveling display round back and a three million dot OLED viewfinder. Of course, we won't be able to separate fact from fiction until the camera launches later this week. If you can't hold your breath that long, check the source for more leaked pics of Sony's slick new shooter.
We knew the Android Market was coming to Google TV and yesterday product manager Ambarish Kenghe announced the tools to make it a reality. The Google TV add-on to the Android SDK has been released to developers so they can begin the process of porting their apps to your 40-inch flatscreen. At the moment, only developers using Linux with KVM can use the kit but Kenghe says they're working on support for other platforms. Apps that require unsupported tech like touchscreens won't be visible on the market, so developers need to make sure their software is optimized for TVs before they make their living-room debut. Hammer your finger on the source link below for the inside skinny from Mr Kenghe himself.
We like what's in our wardrobe to be multifunctional, and we've seen threads do double duty as keyboards, flashlights and even drum kits in our day. Now, researchers at Ohio State have come up with a way to turn the shirt on your back into an omnidirectional antenna to boost radio reception. To do so, they etched brass wires into plastic film to create flexible antennae, and stitched 4 of them into the shoulders, chest and back of a vest. Using a computer controller the size of a deck of cards clipped to the wearers belt, the system senses body movement and activates the appropriate antenna to get the best signal. You see, antennae don't work so well when touching human skin -- as any iPhone 4 owner can attest -- and the multiple antenna system alleviates that problem while providing "significantly greater signal strength" than a standard antenna. The researchers see the technology having great appeal for the military, law enforcement, and emergency personnel, but here's hoping they make a consumer version, too. It'd be nice to eliminate all those cell-service dead spots by simply donning a jacket, right?
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Antennas in your clothes? New design could pave the way
COLUMBUS, Ohio – The next generation of communications systems could be built with a sewing machine.
To make communications devices more reliable, Ohio State University researchers are finding ways to incorporate radio antennas directly into clothing, using plastic film and metallic thread.
In the current issue of the journal IEEE Antennas and Wireless Propagation Letters, they report a new antenna design with a range four times larger than that of a conventional antenna worn on the body – one that is used by American soldiers today.
"Our primary goal is to improve communications reliability and the mobility of the soldiers," said Chi-Chih Chen, a research associate professor of electrical and computer engineering at Ohio State. "But the same technology could work for police officers, fire fighters, astronauts – anybody who needs to keep their hands free for important work."
For typical foot soldiers, mobility and communications are often at odds. An antenna can be a large and unwieldy addition to an already heavy load.
The idea of embedding communications devices in clothing to address this problem is not new, Chen explained. The Ohio State system takes elements from previous research and combines them in a new way, with the addition of a unique computer control device that lets multiple antennas work together in a single piece of clothing.
The result is a communications system that can send and receive signals in all directions, even through walls and inside a building, without a need for the wearer to carry an external antenna.
John Volakis, the Roy & Lois Chope Chair Professor and Director of the ElectroScience Laboratory at Ohio State, found a common analogy for the new design.
"In a way, we're doing what's already been done on a cell phone. You don't see cell phones with external antennas anymore, because the antenna is part of the body of the phone," Volakis said.
When antennas make contact with the human skin, however, the body tends to absorb radio signals and form a short circuit – a fact driven home by the recent difficulties with the antenna placement on the iPhone 4. Also, if an antenna is improperly placed, a person's body can block it when he or she moves against a wall or other obstacles.
The Ohio State system overcomes these problems by surrounding the body with several antennas that work together to transmit or receive a signal, no matter which way a person is facing. An integrated computer control device senses body movement and switches between the antennas to activate the one with the best performance given the body's position.
The engineers created a prototype antenna by etching thin layers of brass on a commercially available plastic film, called FR-4. The film is light and flexible, and can be sewn onto fabric.
They attached it into a vest at four locations –chest, back, and both shoulders. The computer controller – a metal box a little smaller than a credit card and an inch thick – was worn on a belt.
In laboratory tests, the experimental antenna system provided significantly greater signal strength compared to a conventional military "whip" antenna, enabling a range of communications four times larger.
Perhaps most importantly, the new antenna system worked in all directions, even as researchers tested it inside the hallways of the ElectroScience Lab, where doors and windows would normally interfere with the signal.
Key to the technology was the engineers' development of network communications coding to coordinate the signals among the antennas. Doctoral student Gil-Young Lee developed a computer module to make the antenna control automatic. Lee, Chen, and Volakis co-authored the IEEE paper with Dimitrios Psychoudakis, senior research associate at the ElectroScience Lab.
They are partnering with an antenna design company, Applied EM of Hampton, VA, to commercialize the research, which was funded by a Small Business Innovation Research grant.
Chen currently estimates that the antenna systems, as demonstrated in the prototype, would cost $200 per person to implement, but mass production would bring that cost significantly down.
In the meantime, the engineers are working on printing antennas directly onto clothing, and embroidering antennas into clothing with metallic threads. A typical home sewing machine is now part of their laboratory equipment, and early tests have shown that the swirly designs they've embroidered into fabrics such as cotton – and even taffeta – can work as functional antennas.
That's why Volakis envisions the technology to be adaptable for the general public. The elderly or disabled could wear clothing that would let them communicate in case of emergency, without the stigma they might feel in wearing a more visible assistive device.
"Imagine a vest or shirt, or even a fancy ball gown made with this technology," he said, scrunching a sample of embroidered taffeta in his hand. "The antennas would be inconspicuous, and even attractive. People would want to wear them."
If you don't pay close attention, you may not even notice it, but Samsung sneaked a preview of an American Galaxy S II variant into a promo video it released earlier today. For the entire clip you stare at the version we're all familiar with, which sports a large home button on the bottom. Then, at the very end, a slightly rounder handset with four capacitive buttons and no large home key pops up on the screen. It looks a bit like the T-Mobile-bound Hercules, but not quite as curvy around the edges. It could be Sprint's Epic 4G Touch or perhaps an as yet unseen model destined for AT&T or Verizon. Check out the full promo video after the break.
[Thanks, Daniel]
It's been a while coming, but Lenovo's ThinkPad tablet has finally made its way to market. As expected, the line of Honeycomb slates is now available for order on the company's product page, with the 16GB, WiFi-only model priced at $500 and 3G-enabled versions going for $570 (32GB) and $670 (64GB). The 10.1-inch, NVIDIA Tegra 2-powered tablets are expected to begin shipping on August 29th, but you can order one now, at the source link below.
[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]
Sony has unveiled details of its new “Live with Walkman” phone running Android Gingerbread 2.3 as operating system. The “Live with Walkman” smartphone designed and created by Sony to deliver a unique social music to users. Equipped with deep Facebook integration that allows you to access their Facebook pages through the photo gallery of the phone, music player, calendar and schedule, and include a Facebook feature music recommendations.
It is also equipped with a 3.2 inch touch screen and a 5 megapixel camera with 8x zoom, autofocus and face detection, as well as labeling and record video GEO HD (720p). The new Android phone is also packed with Sony technology xLOUD designed to enhance the audio output from the internal speakers, and an “Infinite button” in the media player that offers new content on their favorite artists, along with videos, artist information and an installation of hand-search letters.
Sony explains:
“Consumers want smartphones to offer a rich entertainment experience and social development. Instead of a musical experience of a single dimension, they want a transparent and instant access to new content in combination with the ability to share and connect with friends. The Sony Ericsson Walkman offers live with just this in a powerful package with great style. ”
The Sony “Walkman Live” will arrive in the store in the last quarter of 2011 and measure 56.5 x 106 x 14.2 mm weighing about 115g. No details on pricing have not yet been released.
A new Deloitte report states that wireless telecommunications companies in the United States could invest $25 to $53 billion in fourth generation cellular wireless networks (4G) between 2012 and 2016, triggering $73 to $151 billion in gross domestic product growth and creating 371,000 to 771,000 jobs. Additional growth could occur as high-tech companies create new mobile broadband products and services, further changing the way people live, work and learn.
The Deloitte report, “The Impact of 4G Technology on Commercial Interactions, Economic Growth and U.S. Competitiveness,” investigates the economic dynamics surrounding 4G technology and explains how the U.S. can maintain the global leadership position in mobile broadband innovation it won during the 3G era.
McAfee Co., Ltd., the Japanese subsidiary of McAfee, today announced that NEC Corporation (Headquarters: Minato-ku, Tokyo; President: Nobuhiro Endo) will offer McAfee Mobile Security pre-installed on its “LifeTouch” series cloud communicator starting August 26, 2011. McAfee Mobile Security is the industry’s most comprehensive and powerful mobile security suite. The pre-installation of this security suite on the NEC “LifeTouch” series represents the first service bundle of its kind to be made available in Japan.
“We are pleased to partner with McAfee in bundling the globally-proven McAfee Mobile Security together with our “LifeTouch” series cloud communicator,” said Kazuo Nishidai, Vice President and Executive General Manager Personal Solutions Operations Unit at NEC Corporation. “Working with McAfee enables us to address a wide range of customer needs, from consumer side to business side. Through our partnership with McAfee, we remain committed to building up our portfolio of “LifeTouch” products as a series that offers enhanced security.”
BlackBerry Curve 9360
The new BlackBerry Curve 9360, slim in design, features the much-loved BlackBerry QWERTY keyboard, but with the updated 7.0 OS, providing an easier and faster user experience. The Smartphone offers improved browsing, voice-activated searches, maps with gps support as well as additional personal and productivity apps out of the box. Plus, the BlackBerry Curve 9360 is also near field communication (NFC) compatible.
Sylvia Chind, head of handsets said, “This exciting new BlackBerry Smartphone offers a faster browsing experience as well as access to familiar favourite features we know our customers love, such as BBM, on Three’s award-winning 3G network.”
Key features:
BlackBerry 7.0 OS
NFC technology
Fast internet and e-mail access with HSDPA and WiFi
5.0 MP camera with flash
Dimensions: 60×108.9x11mm
GPS, Bluetooth 2.1
Sprint Merlin CC208 3G 4G 2-in-1 Card, Merlin CC208, 3G, 4G, 2-in-1 Card
The Industry’s first dual-mode 3G/4G mobile broadband card, Merlin CC208 3G/4G 2-in-1 Card from Sprint, allows customers to take advantage of Sprint’s 4G network to accelerate productivity on the go. With the locking 2-in-1 adapter, users can swap between PC Card and ExpressCard slots quickly and easily, freeing up USB ports for other devices. It’s ideal for the frequent business traveler browsing the Internet, checking email and uploading and downloading presentations. With turbo-charged 4G speeds, users can connect to their corporate server quickly, hold video-conferences without buffering, and download files in just seconds.
Features:
· 3G EV-DO Rev. A and WiMAX capable; Transition between 4G and 3G without requiring user interaction
· 2-in-1 Card is designed to work with both ExpressCard and PC Card slots. Merlin CC208 has a locking 2-in-1 adapter that allows users to swap between PC Card and ExpressCard slots quickly and easily, freeing up USB ports for other devices
· 4G data speeds (WiMAX) – Average download speeds of 3-6 Mbps and peak speeds of more than 10 Mbps; 3G data speeds (EV-DO Rev. A) – Peak download speeds up to 3.1 Mbps
· Datalink 3G/4G
· Works with Sprint SmartView Connection Manager software
· Automatically connects to the fastest Sprint Mobile Broadband network available
· GPS enabled
Basics:
· Compatibility: Mac OS X 10.4 and higher, as well as Windows 7, XP and Vista
· Dimensions: 138 x 54 x 22 mm (PCMCIA); 124 x 34 x 22 mm (Express)
· Weight: 1.4 ounces (Express Card); 2.4 ounces (ExpressCard and PCMCIA)
· Slots: PCMCIA Type II / ExpressCard
Sony Sony DEV-5 digital binocular
Life’s “can’t miss” moments are now easier to observe and capture with the world’s first digital binoculars to record in AVCHD 2.0 format, from Sony. The new models, DEV-3 and DEV-5, are ideal for nature/bird watching, they can record Full HD video with stereo sound at the touch of a button, and even add a 3D mode that records scenes as thrilling stereoscopic video footage for playback on most 3D HDTVs.
“Now consumers can watch birds, wildlife, sports action and more in steady, sharply-focused close-up views, while capturing their subjects in crisp Full HD,” said Andy Bubala, director of the camcorder business at Sony Electronics. “These new models add entirely new levels of flexibility and convenience to viewing, recording and enjoying your favorite images and scenes.”
Users can select the variable zoom on both models to scan a wide area at low magnification before zooming in seamlessly to pinpoint a subject, such as birds in a field. Turning on the digital zoom at magnification settings over 10x boosts the DEV-5 model’s total magnification range from 0.9x up to 20x digital (image quality is reduced when digital zoom is on and recording 2D video at magnifications higher than 10x), rivalling many high-powered conventional binoculars. The DEV-3 model pulls wildlife, sporting subjects and architectural details closer with a maximum magnification of 10x optical. In 3D mode, the binoculars’ maximum magnification is 5.4x optical.
Unlike traditional binoculars, electronic autofocus keeps moving subjects sharply in focus at all times. A comfortably positioned dial allows fingertip adjustment of manual focus – ideal for focusing selectively on a subject, rather than overhanging branches or other obstructions in the field of view.
Electronic autofocus allows both binoculars to focus cleanly on subjects less than half an inch away when recording in 2D (minimum of 32 inches when recording in 3D).
Separate images for left and right eyes are captured by a matched pair of precision G Lens optics by Sony with “Exmor R” CMOS sensors and powerful BIONZ processors. Independent electronic viewfinders provide clear, detailed images for left and right eyes, offering a stereoscopic viewing experience that’s comfortable, natural and highly immersive.
The DEV-3 and DEV-5 digital binoculars feature Optical SteadyShot image stabilization (Active mode), the optical stabilization system that’s found on Sony Handycam camcorders and Cyber-shot cameras. Optical SteadyShot image stabilization helps keep images clear and stable, even when viewing at high magnifications. The binoculars can be connected via HDMI to a Sony BRAVIA HDTV or any HD television with HDMI input for viewing images (cable sold separately). 3D videos can be enjoyed on virtually any 3D-compatible TV, including Sony BRAVIA models. There’s also a USB connection for transferring video clips to a PC for storing, editing and sharing.
The binoculars feature a “stealth” design that eliminates distracting buttons or external details that could reveal a user’s position to wildlife.
Both binoculars feature an ergonomic grip area that’s coated with an elastomer material for sure handling and stable operation. Top-mounted controls allow easy operation with gloved fingers, while dual buttons are provided to start recording instantly with either hand.
The DEV-5 model includes an on-board GPS receiver that automatically geo-tags video clips and photos. Tagged images can be viewed after shooting in online maps (requires compatible software).
Both binocular models come with a high-capacity rechargeable battery pack (NP-FV70) that allows up to approximately three hours of 2D recording on a single charge. Remaining battery time (minutes) is displayed in the electronic viewfinder.
The DEV-3 and DEV-5 models also include a battery charger/adaptor, A/V connecting cable and USB cable for PC connection. In addition, the DEV-5 binoculars are supplied with lens cover, finder cap, large eye cups, a carrying case and neck strap.
The new DEV-3 and DEV-5 digital recordable binoculars from Sony will be available in November 2011 for about $1400 and $2000, respectively, at http://store.sony.com, Sony retail stores and other authorized retailers nationwide.
T-Mobile new Value plan
On Saturday, Aug. 20, 2011, T-Mobile USA, Inc. will give its Facebook fans another reason to “like” the company. To celebrate the launch of its new Value plans, including its unlimited talk, text and data plan for $49.99 per line for two lines, T-Mobile will give away 49 T-Mobile gift cards, each worth $49, for one day only. To enter the sweepstakes, consumers must become a fan of T-Mobile’s Facebook page and fill out the sweepstakes form on the “$49 Value Plan” tab on Saturday.1 Existing T-Mobile Facebook fans also can fill out the sweepstakes form for a chance to win.
The celebration of $49.99 also will extend to select T-Mobile retail stores in 13 states across the country. On Saturday, a total of 57 T-Mobile retail stores in California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New York, Texas, Utah and Washington will offer a one-day-only, free-phone giveaway. The first 49 new, two-year activations on any of T-Mobile’s new qualifying Value plans with unlimited data — including the $49.99 unlimited talk, text and data plan — at one of the select store locations come with a free Samsung Exhibit™ 4G or T-Mobile Sidekick 4G.
In July, T-Mobile launched its featured Value plan, with unlimited talk, unlimited text and unlimited data — with 2 GB of high-speed data — for just $49.99 per line for two lines.
“T-Mobile is grateful for the enthusiasm our Facebook fans show us, and we wanted to thank them and also continue to celebrate the launch of our new Value plans,” said John Clelland, senior vice president, Marketing, T-Mobile USA. “The new Value plans make it more affordable than ever for customers to step up to unlimited data and enjoy the benefits of America’s Largest 4G Network™. Our one-day, in-store promotion also offers customers even greater savings by eliminating the cost of a handset for the first 49 activations.”
Logitech, Wireless Solar Keyboard, K750, Mac Keyboard, K750 for Mac, Logitech Wireless Solar Keyboard, K750, Mac K750
Today, Logitech brings the power of light to Mac users with the Logitech Wireless Solar Keyboard K750 for Mac. With the same award-winning design and feature set as the Logitech Wireless Solar Keyboard K750, this newest version – available in multiple colors – makes battery hassles a thing of the past thanks to its onboard solar cells that power the keyboard using ambient light.
“We hear from consumers all the time that they want to see more Mac products from us,” said Rory Dooley, Logitech senior vice president and general manager of the Control Devices business unit. “I’m proud to say we’ve listened, and are excited to offer one of our most innovative keyboards designed specifically for Mac users.”
Available in five colors – four exclusively for Mac users – the Logitech Wireless Solar Keyboard K750 for Mac is powered by light – even indoors. It powers itself with ambient light in the room – there’s no need for direct sunlight – so you’ll never have to hassle with changing batteries. And on a full charge it can work for up to three months in total darkness. Plus, you can download the solar power app that gives you at-a-glance information about battery levels, and even alerts you when you need more light.
With its PVC-free construction and fully recyclable box, this keyboard is designed to help minimize its environmental footprint. A full-size wireless keyboard, the Logitech Wireless Solar Keyboard K750 for Mac includes a number pad and features a layout designed for Mac users, so everything is where you expect it to be. Combining the best of traditional keyboards and laptops with a Logitech-only concave key-cap design, the keyboard lets you enjoy faster, quieter, feel-good typing – hour after hour. With sleek lines and a thin profile, this stylish, streamlined keyboard adds style to your workspace—whether you’ve got a laptop or desktop.
The Logitech Wireless Solar Keyboard K750 for Mac comes with advanced 2.4 GHz wireless connectivity to virtually eliminate delays or dropouts, and a plug-and-forget Unifying receiver that is so small it stays in your laptop, so your keyboard is always ready to use.
Pricing and Availability
The Logitech Wireless Solar Keyboard K750 for Mac is expected to be available in the U.S. and Europe beginning in August, for a suggested retail price of $59.99 (U.S.). To see available colors in your area or to order yours today please visit www.logitech.com
Skype PlayStationVita, Skype in PS Vita
Today, Skype team announced that Skype will be enabling even more conversations with its upcoming availability on PlayStationVita (PS Vita). PS Vita users will have the opportunity to talk with friends and family around the globe with free Skype-to-Skype voice calling, as well as take advantage of Skype’s low-cost calls to landlines and mobiles internationally. With more than 170 million monthly connected users on Skype, PS Vita users will be able to connect with a wide range of friends and family while on-the-go, using the next generation portable entertainment system’s built-in network connectivity.
We've seen a few leaks from HTC lately, and now we've got the scoop on two more. And get this: one is being developed just for aspiring hip-hop moguls! Okay, not really... but a couple of new names were filed with the USPTO last week, as it keeps spittin' game in the mobile marketplace. Four total trademark applications were filed for the HTC Enamor and HTC Rhyme -- covering smartphones and tablets along with their hardware and software cohorts. No specs have been revealed (or much else) as of yet, but if you'd like to scope out the particulars for yourself, hit the source links below.
The most telling moment of our conversation with Chandra Rathakrishnan came at the end, just before the recording device shut off. The interview wrapped, and we politely thanked the Fusion Garage CEO for taking the time to speak with us. "Thank you for taking the time," he echoed, adding, "And for giving us another chance." Rathakrishnan never goes so far as to use the word "failure" to describe the company's poorly received JooJoo tablet -- at least not during the course of our interview -- but it seems clear that he harbors few illusions with regards to what the device truly was: a misfire. A grandiose experiment that was rushed out the door far too fast, with far too few resources.
The device's origins weren't all that pretty, either. The company teamed up with TechCrunch to offer up a $200 internet tablet dubbed the CrunchPad -- a plan that soon soured, with the two parting ways on a less-than-positive note. Fusion Garage rebranded the CrunchPad the JooJoo, and began a long journey of delays and price hikes. Despite its best efforts, it missed the boat, failing to release the device ahead of Apple's industry shaping iPad. When the 4GB tablet finally hit the market, it carried a $499 price tag -- more than double its initial utopian target.
Read on for the full interview.
The reviews weren't kind either. We gave the slate a three out of ten. Not surprisingly, the device failed to catch fire -- and while Rathakrishnan insists that sales weren't quite as dismal as reported, it's hard to imagine a yardstick by which the JooJoo might be considered a success. A firmware update did help matters a bit, but it was too little too late. So Fusion Garage regrouped, and in an industry where second chances for startups seem far-fetched at best, the company went undercover, working on a mystery campaign launched to coincide with the Steve Jobs keynote at WWDC.
A lot of money and resources were clearly poured into the promotion, which included a series of viral videos and the purchase of a sponsored tweet for the duration of August 15th -- the day of the company's big reveal. Whether that price actually bought the Rathakrishnan and Co. a second chance is debatable -- it did, however, afford Fusion Garage a level of press it might not have earned had it continued with business as usual. Whatever their reactions may have been to the actual announcement, people did genuinely want to know who precisely this TabCo company was.
Rathakrishnan dominated the stage during the strange little press conference, debuting the Grid 10 tablet, the Grid 4 phone and the Grid operating system, which tied the whole show together. In spite of building the OS on top of the Android kernel, Rathakrishnan also used the platform to tear into the Google mobile OS and the tablets that utilize it. The company, it seems, has no illusions about going toe to toe with Apple this time around, but the CEO is maintaining a sense of unflinching faith in the product's ability to succeed on its own merits -- even if convincing users to actually give the thing a shot will be an uphill battle.
We sat down with Rathakrishnan the night of his company's big unveiling to discuss the mistakes of the JooJoo, the importance of the Grid OS and why he believes that Fusion Garage deserves that second chance.
Have you learned your lessons from the JooJoo? Is this new tablet the result of those lessons?
I think [the JooJoo was] product that was delivered ahead of it being ready. I think we tried to rush it to the market too fast, with too little resources. We were a 14-man company then, and as much as we were earnest, we were a little overstretched in believing we could deliver a product that could challenge or create a category. So, I definitely think that was one lesson learned. The second one was that the world is going towards the web or the internet, but I don't think it's quite ready yet. I think we basically need to look at a hybrid world before that's gonna happen. I don't think that anyone is trying to do that really well today. You've seen that with the Chrome OS, trying to be completely web and nothing else. I think that's not the right path to pursue, given the expectations of the market today.
Obviously there were some things that you applied from that experience. The Grid 10 has built-in memory and expandable memory as well. Are there any other clear things that you can point to -- hardware differences between the two devices that were a direct result of the JooJoo's failings?
I think that goes beyond the hardware, because if you look at the OS itself, it's completely different right now. It's a new generation built on the Android kernel. Everything on top of that kernel has been changed almost beyond recognition to deliver what we've delivered today. It's night and day, the JooJoo was a web-only OS, and this is really what I would call groundbreaking. It's innovative, it's completely different from anything that anyone has tried to deliver since 2007, after the iPhone. So, I think that's one critical difference, having a new generation OS that's completely different in its functionality -- a different approach to UI, how we deal with the animations, all of that.
The second one's apps -- the ability to have local and native apps. I think this is a very critical thing. We obviously delivered that today in two ways: One with the support for Android apps. The API framework is being retained. You get almost immediate app support, because through the Amazon app store, you can download any of these Android apps on the Grid 10. And with the Grid Shop, I think what we are trying to do is trying to get the best of both worlds -- leverage the Android ecosystem of app developers and let them leverage the additional APIs and the wrappers that we have created to take advantage of the significant UI work and functionality that goes with the OS. So I think that's another area that is critically different.
When you look at the hardware itself, while I thought the JooJoo was pretty good hardware, it was a little too big -- 12 inches was pushing it. I think the market has clearly shown that somewhere between nine and 10 inches is probably the sweet spot, and that's exactly what we've tried to deliver this time around. So obviously there's 16GB of on-board storage that we didn't have last time around. There's expandable memory with the microSD slot. It's really different from a hardware standpoint, and this is one hell of a sexy design -- it's really sleek, it's slim, it's a 10.1 inch that is 16 x 9 aspect ratio which gives you a 1366 x 768 resolution.
It seemed as though you were rushing the clock with the release of the JooJoo -- that you were trying to beat the iPad to market. Was that what it felt like at the time?
Yeah, I think that was part of the reason, and also, with the time we had and the resources we had, it was just unbalanced. It's a very difficult thing to try and do hardware and an OS with the people that we had. But it's very different now, we have 100-plus people. We've raised tens of millions of dollars, and we've grown to a point where we are not just doing the OS, we're trying to make sure that the experience is complemented with the various things that you need to make this product a success.
You mentioned how much the staff has grown recently, and obviously a lot of money went into the ad campaign. Where is the money is coming from?
The funding is coming largely from Asia. Angel investors and professional investors from the region. That tells you the amount of confidence people have in our vision. Like you said, the JooJoo wasn't a successful product. We all know that. We're not hiding from the fact that we rushed the product and knew it wasn't good enough, so we discontinued sales the moment we realized we weren't going to be able to make that better than it already was. And we want to give [JooJoo buyers] a free Grid 10 as a token of appreciation on our part, to say "thank you for supporting us during the period where we didn't get this right." But we're gonna nail this one, and the investment that we are getting is helping us to provide the resources to do this the right way.
How many JooJoos did you actually sell?
Well, we are not revealing numbers, but I can guarantee you that it is way more than the rumored numbers you were getting.
At today's press conference, it seemed that you were essentially telling us that you presented the device [as TabCo] to give the product a fair shake. Do you feel like you were treated unfairly by the press?
Previously? I think it was balanced. I mean, if the production is not good enough and people are calling it out for what it is, you can't hide from that. We've never tried to hide from that. I think we just needed the time away. We had to show them what we were capable of, and that's what we have done. The press gave us a fair deal. They heard us. They wanted us to succeed. I don't think anyone wanted us to fail, but the hype of the product didn't live up to its performance. I think the press was doing its job.
Taking all of that into consideration, was it difficult when you were pitching this product around, trying to get all that funding?
It's never easy, especially with the economy the way it is. You need to have a special vision, and you've got to have the ability to assure that you can make money. We obviously need to have the right financial support, otherwise we would not be attempting to do what we are doing. While it was difficult, I think the investors showed faith in the vision we had, and I think they were patient enough to let us execute it within the time we needed. We had been away for a year. We had our heads down. We were focusing on getting the product right before getting it out there.
So there never was any question that there was going to be a new tablet coming out from Fusion Garage?
Back in the day, when the [expletive] was hitting the fan, I think I would be lying to you if I said we were sure that this would all pan out the way it has. We knuckled down and accepted reality for what it is. The team that stayed behind believed in the vision as well, and we had the passion to just take the pressure -- take the hit -- and focus on what we had to do. People were saying we were not communicating, people were saying we had left all our customers in a lurch, but we had to be patient through all that process.
Did you consider a more traditional Android route when you were working on all the prototypes?
No, I don't think that's in our DNA at all. If you look at what we were trying to do with the JooJoo, while it wasn't successful, I don't think anyone can take away from the fact that we were trying to create a category that didn't exist. There was no lack of trying on our part. Like I said, we were earnest, but I don't think we realized the size of the task, along with the resources we had, and the fact that we had to rush it so that it came out at the same time as the iPad was just insane.
Are there any Android tablets out there that are doing a good job?
No. I think the benchmark is the iPhone and the iPad, and that's the benchmark that we're trying to raise up. I don't think Android has been good enough.
So why use the Android kernel if it's a flawed system?
There are two things that Android has that are pretty solid. One, the fact that there is a very strong kernel that has been worked on for years. Even Apple did not try to start from scratch. They built on top of UNIX. We approach Android in a similar fashion. We took the kernel and completely branched out. This is no re-skin. This is a complete change from what Android is. It was stable, and it was in a good position for us to leverage and build on top of it.
The second thing is the app support. I think it is one thing to say you are going to have a lot of apps eventually, but I think it is another thing to say that you have app support from day one. Android has an ecosystem that is maybe not as striving as Apple, but it is there, and I think it was important to leverage that ecosystem right from the beginning.
The Android ecosystem is thriving, the iOS ecosystem is thriving. Palm / HP, on the other hand, is having difficulty bringing developers over to its side. Do you foresee difficulty on your end getting people to develop for your specific app store?
No, for two reasons. One, the compelling experience that we give will see consumer adoption, and the developers will come. The second thing is, if we were asking people right from day one to trust that it's going to get adopted, trust that its going to be great, trust that we are going to be able to deliver this so you should start writing for us from day one, that's not going to work. That's what webOS is trying to do, and that's what everyone else coming up with something new is trying to do. What we are telling people is that you already have an Android app, it already works well. We have the Grid Shop, we'll have it for our devices, and if this goes the way we say it's going to go, then you can easily extend upon that and use our API to provide a way better experience that ties in back to the innovations that we have created.
How do you convince consumers, when all everyone knows is the iPad and a handful of Android tablets? How do you convince users that this is a better experience for them?
While Apple is thriving, I'm not sure that everyone is really happy with the current conditions in the App Store. You see it with all the newspapers and magazines that are all trying to come out with their own HTML5 version to try and bypass the App Store. That tells you that they do not want to be held for ransom. We are starting to see people rebel, they are looking for alternatives that can let them rise to that challenge. I think we are seeing that in discussions we've been having in private as well.
The second thing is, if you're looking at Android, it's one thing to say the Galaxy S is selling very well, and it's another to say how Android marketplace actually works, and is it easy for people to find apps on these devices? I don't think this is happening in the way that this is happening with Apple. Both sides have a different set of problems, and I think that presents an opportunity for someone to take advantage of it. That's exactly what we are trying to do with the innovations that we have created.
What kind of goals do you have? What would you consider a successful amount of units shipped by the end of the year?
If you are spending the kind of money we are spending with the marketing campaign and the product development that we've invested over a year in, we clearly have financial goals. We clearly have business goals that we are looking to achieve, but I don't think it's about that right now. I think it's about awareness and about market acceptance and penetration, which is our focus. I think it's too early to talk about numbers right now. We want people like yourself to pick up the device when we give you a review unit and for you to say, "Wow, these guys have a chance. These guys have come up with something that is completely different." And I think that's exactly what we are looking for in the first phase of this roll-out. That's what we are expecting from consumers who are picking the device up from us.
Do you feel like you're overreaching at all by launching two devices in two totally distinct spaces?
It is two very different spaces. But the way we built this allows it to power more than one device, and I think it shows the seriousness of what we are trying to embark on and the commitment to the market when we launch two devices. I think it sends a completely different message about how serious we are about this, how confident we are about this, and how we believe this will shape both those spaces.
You did mention that you will be announcing carriers at some point. Do you have carriers lined up for this handset?
It's very early to say this right now. We are still in discussions. As the new Fusion Garage, we'd rather have the news first and then make the announcement, rather than promise and not deliver on it.
How many people attended the event today?
It wasn't a public event for sure. It was an event that had friends of the company, our suppliers and relationships and people working on the content side. This was a closed event that was attended by people who are part of the extended family, rather than by the public.
You weren't really reaching out to the press at that point?
The press was there. We obviously wanted the media to attend. That's why we did reach out to the media. I think the announcement was done the way it was done to show the seriousness of what we are trying to do, and to show how much we believe in the innovation that we've created.
We're not Apple. If I were to call you guys and say that Fusion Garage is trying to make an announcement about how they are coming back into the market, how many of you would really attend the event? And how many would have taken us seriously given what has happened in the past? So we're definitely confident. I know who I am, but I also know who I'm not.
HTC Flyer
HTC today announced the upcoming release of the HTC Flyer tablet, a new Android powered 7-inch tablet that delivers the immersive HTC Sense experience allowing you to personalize your device to fit your lifestyle. The HTC Flyer features HTC Scribe Technology so it is compatible with an HTC Scribe digital pen , enabling you to draw pictures, get creative with photos, sign digital documents, highlight books, take notes that synch with recorded audio, and more.
“Canadians demand a lot from their mobile devices and the HTC Flyer rises to the challenge with fully immersive visuals, on-demand entertainment and the ability to seamlessly capture, create and share anything from memos to videos and family photos,” said Rick Babington, executive director HTC Canada. “The portability and web browsing ability of the HTC Flyer, make it the perfect device to stow in your backpack or briefcase. With note taking and networking options, it’s the perfect companion for a student in class or an executive in the boardroom – and when the work is done, the play begins with gaming and social media options.”
The HTC Flyer features a 7-inch, LCD capacitive touch screen, 5-megapixel camera with auto focus and a 1.3 megapixel front-facing camera, allowing you to capture crisp, clear images when on the go or conduct a video conference with clients or classmates. The HTC Flyer also features the HTC Watch movie downloading service, allowing you to download movies over Wi-Fi® to watch any time on up to as many as five HTC Watch enabled devices on your account. Making the cinematic experience even richer, the HTC Flyer is equipped with dual speakers with SRS WOW HD surround sound.
The HTC Flyer also features:
Platform: Android + HTC Sense
Display: 7-inch 16.7 M-colour LCD capacitive touch screen with HTC Scribe compatibility
Network: Wi-Fi b/g/n (2.4GHz)
Processor: 1.5 GHz processor
Memory: 16 GB eMMC, 1 GB RAM, microSD card slot 16GB card included
Battery: 4000 mAh
Camera resolution: 5 MP main camera with autofocus, 1.3 MP front-facing camera, 720 video capture
Bluetooth®: 3.0 +HS
GPS: GPS / AGPS
Sound: Dual speakers with SRS WOW HD surround sound
The HTC Flyer tablet will be available in Canada from The Source. Customers can find it in store beginning August 16, 2011, for $499.99. The HTC Scribe pen accessory is sold separately and is only available online for $79.99. For more information, please visit www.thesource.ca.
Just a couple months after making its grand debut at this year's E3, Minecraft has finally made its way to the Android Market, much to the delight of cube enthusiasts and time-wasters everywhere. With this new, Pocket Edition app, Mojang is hoping to faithfully recreate the Minecraft experience on mobile platforms, with a special emphasis placed on the game's creative side. In version Alpha 0.1, users will be able to explore randomized worlds, invite friends to play along in their worlds and save multi-player realms directly to their phones -- all while manipulating 36 different kinds of blocks from the comfort of their touchscreens. For now, the game will only be available for Sony Ericsson's Xperia Play, though Mojang plans to release it for other Android handsets "in the near future." You can grab it now for $6.99, or swerve past the break for more information, in the full press release.
Show full PR text
Say hello to Minecraft - Pocket Edition
Today we are releasing the first version of Minecraft – Pocket Edition. The game will be exclusive to Xperia Play for a limited time and released to other Android devices in the near future.
The first version (Alpha 0.1) will focus on the creative aspects of Minecraft. We have tried to put in the features that make sense for playing on a mobile device while still keeping the core of the Minecraft experience. You will be able to select blocks on the touchscreen or just scroll through them with the circle and square buttons on the Xperia Play device. The first version also supports multi-player on a local wireless network allowing you to create a world and invite friends to build together. Some of the features in this release include:
• Randomized worlds
• Build anything you can imagine
• Build with 36 different kinds of blocks
• Invite and play with friends to your world (local wireless network)
• Save multi-player worlds on your own phone
Just like the PC/Mac/Linux version of Minecraft we're planning to continue developing the Pocket Edition for a long time with frequent updates. We are eager to hear what the Minecraft community thinks about our new game and what you all want to see in future updates.
Minecraft – Pocket Edition is now available in Android Market (only visible to Xperia Play devices) for $6.99