Dr. Augustine Fou's Online Scrapbook

Monday, January 05, 2009

VortexBox Turns Your Old Computer into a Music Server [Media Server]

Source: http://feeds.gawker.com/~r/lifehacker/full/~3/GTQPywR_C0k/vortexbox-turns-your-old-computer-into-a-music-server

VortexBox is an open-source CD ripping and media server solution. Based on Fedora 10, VortexBox is capable of streaming in multiple formats allowing you to hear your music on your other computers, iTunes, media centers, slim devices like squeezeboxes and other media devices. Installation is straight forward, download the ISO file, burn it to a disc, pop the disc in the unused computer you want to turn into a jukebox and you're on your way. Once the installation is complete you can access the box remotely with the build in web server. Ripping is completely automated, just pop in the disk you want it to rip and it rips, tags, and gets the cover art. VortexBox is an open-source linux-based media server.

VortexBox [via Freeware Home]

Rumored Samsung 6.5mm HDTV Prototype Could Be Thinnest LCD TV Yet [HDTV]

Source: http://feeds.gawker.com/~r/gizmodo/full/~3/CGjUSEJ7VHs/rumored-samsung-65mm-hdtv-prototype-could-be-thinnest-lcd-tv-yet

PC World is reporting today that Samsung has managed to cram an LED backlit HDTV into a housing that's no more than 6.5mm thick. Don't sneeze or breathe too hard around this one.

We've previously covered the Samsung HDTV sets that are scheduled to make an appearance in 2009, but this super svelte one wasn't on the list, meaning it's most likely prototype fodder for the "thinnest HDTV" category that will surely get an exercise at CES 2009 this week.

The current record holder for thinnest HDTV is Philips with its 8mm prototype LCD, which was shown in Berlin last year at the IFA electronics show. Sony, on the other hand, takes the prize for having the thinnest retail television, a 9.9mm set that's already on store shelves. For more on the thinnest of the thin and their insane asking prices, check out Wilson's review of the top three on the market today. Of course, there's always the XEL-1 OLED set from Sony, at 3mm, if these are too thick for you.

Note: Pic is NOT of the rumored Samsung HDTV. [PC World]

Lenovo IdeaPad Y650 Is Thinnest, Lightest 16-Inch Notebook Thanks to Carbon Fiber [Ces 2009]

Source: http://feeds.gawker.com/~r/gizmodo/full/~3/_hbJkewQxTI/lenovo-ideapad-y650-is-thinnest-lightest-16+inch-notebook-thanks-to-carbon-fiber

Lenovo's IdeaPad Y-series consumer notebooks are all going 16:9 widescreen, teed off by the 16-inch Y650, which is the thinnest, lightest notebook in that class, thanks to carbon fiber.

Rounding out the series are the Y550 and Y450, which are the 15 and 14-inch versions of the same notebook. They're all LED-backlit, and weirdly, at least according to the spec sheet all have the same 1366x768 resolution. Also bizarre is that the 15.6-inch Y550 weighs more than the Y650—6 pounds to 5.6. Blu-ray and discrete graphics options in all (though not the kind you can turn off or off like in the unibody MacBook Pros or some of Toshiba's notebooks).

Still, they do start fairly cheap: $1200 for the Y650, $830 for the other two when they roll out in March.

IdeaPad Y650, Y550, Y450 Laptops
Lenovo's latest IdeaPad Y Series laptops deliver powerful Hi-Definition entertainment in new sizes that are smaller, thinner and lighter than the previous generation to give more choices to consumers. The three Y Series laptops – the Y650, Y550, and Y450 – share the same modern soft black design featuring an interlocked hexagon pattern on the top cover along with a discrete copper accent around the perimeter of the laptop.

Lenovo delivers its first 16-inch widescreen laptop, the IdeaPad Y650, to the distinction of being the thinnest and lightest laptop in its class1. In fact, the laptop weighs even lighter than many 15-inch laptops, providing users with an additional inch of screen space without compromising on mobility. Making use of special materials like carbon fiber, as used in the aerospace and automotive industries, Lenovo has engineered the laptop down to a slender one-inch at its thinnest point with a! weight of just 5.6 pounds.

The expanded Y Series add three new 16:9 screen sizes: the 16-inch Y650, the 15.6-inch Y550, and the 14-inch Y450 laptops. The new Y Series laptops are configurable with up to 500GB of hard drive storage space and up to 4GB of DDR3 memory.

Designed for HD and Multimedia
To provide an exceptional Hi-Definition entertainment and multimedia experience, the Y Series laptops are equipped with 16:9 format glossy widescreen panels, optional latest generation NVIDIA GFX graphics for gaming and smooth HD video playback and Dolby® Home Theater™ surround sound. The IdeaPad Y650 laptop also features JBL speakers for a rich, resonate sound.

The Y Series includes the new Lenovo OneKey™ Theater software to enhance the audio and visual experience. By pressing a button, OneKey Theater gives users an easy way to adjust the PC's display and sound effect settings. Users can switch from normal mode to movie mode on the fly to optimize the picture when watching movies or playing games. The Y Series also includes Lenovo Desktop Navigator so users can toggle between shortcuts, files and other frequently used programs just by placing their finger along the touch-sensitive slide bar. For extra convenience, users can simply use the multi-touch touchpad below the keyboard and use their fingertips to enlarge or reduce image size. Additionally, an ambient light sensor on the IdeaPad Y650 laptop automatically adjusts screen brightness based on surrounding light conditions, helping to reduce eye strain.

Lenovo has added new levels of performance to its Y Series by equipping them with the latest Intel processors as well as DDR3 memory to help applications respond more quickly under multi-tasking conditions. Now users can burn DVDs in less time, compress and open large documents more easily and enjoy smoother, more realistic gaming. Y Series laptops have several wireless connectivity options including WiFi and optional Bluetooth.

For added convenience, Lenovo's latest Ve! riFace� � facial recognition technology combines Windows log-in and file encryption for logging onto the PC and for password-protecting individual files.

The new Y Series also features Lenovo's OneKey™ Rescue System to help users to recover their data and restore critical system files after system failures, viruses and other mishaps.

IdeaPad S10 Netbook
Lenovo's IdeaPad S10 netbook – an affordable secondary PC for the home or for the first-time PC user – is ideal for connecting to the Internet, messaging with friends, completing homework or even making Skype calls. Lenovo is updating the popular IdeaPad S10 netbook with new multimedia and networking tools for social networking enthusiasts ranging from newbie's to the most social of socialites.

While many early adopters are familiar with the world of social networking, some mainstream consumers are only taking the first steps. Through a new Lenovo tool called LenovoSocial, that comes preloaded on the netbook, users can easily connect to a resource portal that will help them navigate the vast options for participating in social networking.

Other new features on the IdeaPad S10 netbook include Lenovo Quick Start. With this functionality, users will have the ability to access a number of frequently used applications including a web browser, music player, photo viewer, instant messaging tools and Skype. New to the netbook is Lenovo's VeriFace™ facial recognition technology, a convenient tool for easy log-in. Similar to the IdeaPad Y Series laptops, the netbook features multi-touch functionality on the trackpad and Lenovo's OneKey™ Rescue System.

The new IdeaPad S10 netbook's 10.2-inch LED backlight display, 0.9 inch thick frame and 2.4 pound weight make it an ideal companion to tote in a backpack or shoulder bag. Color choices include black, white, red, blue, or pink.

Pricing and Availability4
The new IdeaPad Y650, Y550, Y450 laptops and S10 netbook will be available beginning in March. Manufactu! rer sugg ested retail pricing (MSRP) for models starts at $1,199 for the IdeaPad Y650, $829 for the IdeaPad Y550 and Y450, and $349 for the IdeaPad S10 netbook. The IdeaCentre A600 all-in-one desktop will be available beginning in April with MSRP for models starting at $999.

IdeaPad Y650
16:9 16-inch HD 1366 X 768 WLED type display
Intel Centrino 2 – Intel Core 2 Duo processors, 1066 MHz FSB and 6 MB L2 cache, Intel GM45 Chipset, Intel GMA 4500 MHD graphics
Memory - Up to 4 GB, DDR3 800/1066 MHz DRAM
Graphics - Up to Discrete nVidia N10M-GE1/256M GDDR3 VRAM
Storage - Up to 500 GB, 5400 rpm
Battery – 3.5 hours with UMA, 2.5 hours with discrete, 6-cell 2000mAH
Weight – 5.62 pounds
Dimensions – 390 X 260 X 26.1 mm
Intel® WiMax/ WiFi Link 5100 a/g/n, 10/100/1000 Ethernet, Bluetooth® (Option)
9.5 mm SATA Optical (DVD Rambo, Optional Blu-Ray Combo & Rambo)
Dolby Home Theatre sound
Lenovo Desktop Navigator
Ambient Light Sensor technology
VeriFace 3.5 facial recognition
2 X 2 watt JBL speakers
Integrated 1.3 megapixel USB 2.0 LCD camera
6-in-1 multicard reader
2 USB 2.0 ports, E-sata, RJ45, VGA, Mic-In, Headphone, HDMI, TV, optional 34 mm Express Card slot, mini-PCIe slot (WLAN)
VeriFace™ 3.5, EasyCapture 3.5, Power2GOBD 5.5 (w/ BD optical support), Power2GO(W/O BD optical support), PlayMovie 1.51.3928(For Home Premium and BD optical), WinDVD(For Home Basic w/o BD Optical ), Dolby control center, OneKey Theater, Napster 4.1.0.4(Only for US), Wild Tangent, Norton Internet Security 2008, Lenovo Energy Management Software 3.1, OneKey Rescue System, Lenovo ReadComm 4.0, Carbonite, Microsoft/Lenovo Portal, Microsoft Office Ready, Adobe Reader 8.1, Windows Live 1.0, Office Ready 2007, Lenovo Desktop Navigator, DDNi (Only for USA)

IdeaPad Y550
16:9 15.6-inch HD/full HD, 1366 x 768 display
Intel Core 2 Duo processors, 800 MHz FSB and 2 MB L2 cache, Intel GM45 Chipset, Intel GMA 4500 MHD graphics
Memory - Up to 4 GB D! DR3 800/ 1066 MHz DRAM
Graphics - Intel GMA x4500, Up to Nvidia NB10P-GE1 w/512 MB GDDR3 VRAM
Storage - Up to 500 GB, 5400 rpm
Battery – 4.5 hours with UMA, 3.5 hours with discrete
Weight – 6 pounds
Dimensions – 385 x 255 x 26-37 mm
Latest 5100 a/g/n wireless, Ethernet, optional Bluetooth
Dolby Home Theatre sound
Lenovo Desktop Navigator
VeriFace 3.5 facial recognition
Touch sensitive controls
One Key Theatre, One Key Rescue software, Easy Capture 3.5, Power2Go, Lenovo Ready Comm 4.0, Win DVD, Dolby control center, Napster 4.1.04, Wild Tangent, Norton Internet Security 2008, Lenovo Energy Management Software 3.1, Carbonite, Microsoft/Lenovo Portal, Microsoft Office Ready, Adobe Reader 8.1, Windows Live 1.0, Office Ready 2007, DDNi
Home Premium SP1 32/64 bit

IdeaPad Y450
16:9 14-inch W LED 1366x768 display
Intel Core 2 Duo processors, 800 MHz FSB and 2 MB L2 cache, Intel GM45 Chipset, Intel GMA 4500 MHD graphics
Memory - Up to 4 GB DDR3 800/1066 MHz DRAM
Graphics - Intel GMA x4500, Up to Nvidia NB10P-GE1 w/512 MB GDDR3 VRAM
Storage - Up to 500 GB, 5400 rpm
12.7 mm SATA optical (DVD Rambo, optional Blu-Ray Combo and Rambo)
Battery – 4.5 hours with UMA, 3.5 hours with discrete
Weight – 4.6 pounds
Dimensions – 340 X 232 X 21-34.8 mm
Dolby Home Theatre sound
Lenovo Desktop Navigator
Touch sensitive controls
VeriFace 3.5 facial recognition
One Key Theatre, One Key Rescue software, Easy Capture 3.5, Power2Go, Lenovo Ready Comm 4.0, Win DVD, Dolby control center, Napster 4.1.04, Wild Tangent, Norton Internet Security 2008, Lenovo Energy Management Software 3.1, Carbonite, Microsoft/Lenovo Portal, Microsoft Office Ready, Adobe Reader 8.1, Windows Live 1.0, Office Ready 2007, DDNi
Home Premium SP1 32/64 bit

More 10-inch Acer Aspire One rumors trickle out

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/03/more-10-inch-acer-aspire-one-rumors-trickle-out/

We'd already gotten a solid word from Acer Taiwan president Scott Lin that there would indeed be a 10-inch Aspire One in early 2009, and now we've got some purported pictures and informations to chew on. According to the Aspire One fan-blog macles*, the upcoming revision will come in white, black and red flavors, with a 10.1-inch screen (at the same 1024 x 600 resolution of the existing model) and options for 3G and Bluetooth 2.0+EDR. Perhaps most exciting -- to us non-mutants, anyways -- is the removal of those pesky trackpad-flanking mouse buttons, with a regular-looking button below the trackpad instead doing the honors. Less exciting, however, is the purported lack of Linux and SSD SKUs. The laptop also dropped its Storage Expansion slot in lieu of a good old-fashioned multi-card reader. All-in-all, it sounds like some very mainstream tweaks to an already ultra-popular netbook, and we can't fault Acer for that. Word is the new Aspire One will be landing in February, no mention of price just yet.

[Via jkkmobile]

Filed under: Laptops

More 10-inch Acer Aspire One rumors trickle out originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 03 Jan 2009 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink! |& nbsp;Email this | Comments

Windows 7 build 7000 already outperforming Vista and XP in "real-world" tasks

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/03/windows-7-build-7000-already-outperforming-vista-and-xp-in-real/

You might've heard that crazy rumor making the rounds that Microsoft leaked the Windows 7 beta on purpose to build some positive buzz, and while there's no real evidence (or likelihood) of that of any sort, the seemingly-magical build 7000 is certainly doing well for itself. Following up on wide praise for the fledgling OS, ZDNet's Adrian Kingsley-Hughes pitted the beta up against XP and Vista in some informal "real-word" tasks like boot up, shut down, file maneuvers, installations and other common tasks. On both test systems, an AMD Phenom 9700 setup and an Intel Pentium Dual-Core E2200 number (with ATI and NVIDIA graphics, respectively), the Windows 7 install soundly bested XP and Vista task by task, with few exceptions. Performance testing is never an exact science, but it's clear that Microsoft is taking performance very seriously this time around -- we can't wait for the next conveniently-leaked beta to bolster this rep even further. Next on the benchmarking agenda? Real World: Brooklyn tasks.

[Via Ars Technica]

Filed under: Desktops, Laptops

Windows 7 build 7000 already outperforming Vista and XP in "real-world" tasks originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 03 Jan 2009 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

New HP laptop releases rumored, Mini 1000 Mi included

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/03/new-hp-laptop-releases-rumored-mini-1000-mi-included/

With CES just around the corner, it's no surprise to hear whispers of a new lot of laptops from HP (or anyone else, for that matter). A smattering of from reports around the web have it that Hewlett-Packard is looking to debut a few new machines here in the near future, starting with the AMD-powered 13.3-inch Pavilion dv3z ($799.99), the 16-inch dv6t entertainment notebook ($679.99) and the 17-inch Pavilion G70 ($799.99). We're also clued in on a Compaq Presario CQ60, which will tout a 15.4-inch panel, AMD CPU and not much else considering the $469.99 price tag. Finally, it looks as if the company could introduce a new "Mi" (for Mobile Internet, duh) Mini 1000 edition, which could ship as early as next week with a Linux-based OS and a $379.99 starting tag. Check the links below for all the details, and keep it locked right here for any updates from HP.

Read - HP Pavilion dv3z
Read - HP Pavilion dv6t
Read - HP Pavilion G70
Read - HP Mini 1000 Mi
Read - Compaq Presario CQ60

Filed under: Laptops

New HP laptop releases rumored, Mini 1000 Mi included originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 03 Jan 2009 19:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

3M's MPro110 pocket projector reviewed: okay for geeks, so it's okay for you

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/04/3ms-mpro110-pocket-projector-reviewed-okay-for-geeks-so-its/

3M's MPro110 never set out to blow minds, just to wow those who thought projectors could never be this small. According to Gadling's hands-on review, it achieved its goal(s). With a brightness of just 7 lumens, the actual image that it produced wasn't exactly stunning, but it was deemed "far from useless." The biggest knock was just how limited it was in terms of real-world usage; unless the room was perfectly dark, it wasn't the most gorgeous thing to look at, which means those midday sales presentations may not fly if there's a window in the room. In the end, the MPro110 was found to be more of a geek's toy than a proper presentation tool, but who says that's a bad thing?

Filed under: Displays

3M's MPro110 pocket projector reviewed: okay for geeks, so it's okay for you originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 04 Jan 2009 01:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Researchers tapping into nanotechnology for sharper images

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/04/researchers-tapping-into-nanotechnology-for-sharper-images/

A team of scientists at the University of Glasgow just came into all sorts of cash, and they'll be using it to advance imaging. If you're looking for specifics (and we're assuming you are), a £489,234 grant from the Engineering & Physical Sciences Research Council will be used to study a certain phenomenon called surface plasmon resonance, "which is an effect exhibited by certain metals when light waves fall onto their surfaces." In short, the gurus behind the research are hoping to discover a method of "creating patterns or small nanostructures in the metal film on the CMOS, which should increase the sensitivity of the sensor and result in higher quality images." The bad news? The project is expected to last until 2012, which is like, forever from now.

[Image courtesy of Photo]

Filed under: Digital Cameras

Researchers tapping into nanotechnology for sharper images originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 04 Jan 2009 04:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

PQI showcasing microSATA SSD, ExpressCard SSD and more at CES

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/04/pqi-showcasing-microsata-ssd-expresscard-ssd-and-more-at-ces/

Good heavens, it's been years since we've seen anything noteworthy leave the labs of Power Quotient International. Thankfully, the outfit will be relevant once more when CES rolls around, as its forthcoming SSD line has quite a few big hitters. First up is the 1.8-inch microSATA SSD S518, which is destined to squeeze into tight spaces in capacities of up to 125GB, while the 32GB ExpressCard SSD S520 finally gives you a reason to utilize that funky slot over there that's gone untouched for months. There will also be a 2.5-inch SATA SSD S525 (available in sizes up to 125GB) and an elusive e-SATA Combo Card S530. As for details on pricing and availability? You'll have to wait till the show gets rolling for that, but the full release is waiting just past the break to tide you over.

[Via PC Launches]

Continue reading PQI showcasing microSATA SSD, ExpressCard SSD and more at CES

Filed under: Storage

PQI showcasing microSATA SSD, ExpressCard SSD and more at CES originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 04 Jan 2009 11:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Kodak delivers Z980 24x megazoom, M380 point-and-shoot cameras

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/04/kodak-delivers-z980-24x-megazoom-m380-point-and-shoot-cameras/

PMA may be but a few months off, but that's not stopping Kodak from dropping a few show-stoppers here at CES. Up first is the Z980 megazoom ($399.95; Spring 2009 availability), which offers up a 26-millimeter wide angle lens with a mind-boggling 24x image stabilized optical zoom. You'll also find a 12-megapixel sensor, a vertical shutter release, HD video capture and a detachable vertical grip. On deck is the March-bound EasyShare M380 point-and-shoot ($179), a 10-megapixeler with a 5x optical zoom, 2.7-inch LCD monitor and your choice of black, red, or teal color schemes. Finally, we've got a few new SDHC cards from the outfit, with 4GB, 8GB and 16GB variations coming soon for undisclosed amounts. Full release is just past the break.

Continue reading Kodak delivers Z980 24x megazoom, M380 point-and-shoot cameras

Filed under: CES, Digital Cameras

Kodak delivers Z980 24x megazoom, M380 point-and-shoot cameras originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 04 Jan 2009 14:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

17-inch unibody MacBook Pro with non-removable battery rumored for Macworld

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/04/17-inch-unibody-macbook-pro-with-non-removable-battery-rumored-f/

9to5Mac is reporting that a unibody, 17-inch MacBook Pro will be announced at Macworld, following in the footsteps of the previously released unibody 13 and 15-inchers. The rumor, backed up by some "whisperers" at Macrumors, isn't really an earth-shattering surprise -- though the accompanying revelation that this model is expected to have a slim, extended-life, non-removable battery is rather eye-opening -- and somewhat disappointing, considering the lameness of non-removable batteries. We'll know for sure on Tuesday at the keynote.

Update: Apple Insider is now independently confirming the imminent arrival of the unibody 17-incher, and also corroborating the fixed internal battery theory.

Read - Apple 17-inch MacBook Pro to go Unibody, sans removable battery (Silver-Zinc replacement?)
Read - 17" Unibody MacBook Pro with Non-Removable Extended-Life Battery?
Read - Sources: 17-inch MacBook Pro, NVIDIA Mac mini due shortly

Filed under: Laptops

17-inch unibody MacBook Pro with non-removable battery rumored for Macworld originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 04 Jan 2009 16:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Mac mini update with dual display support, banner unfurling rumored for Macworld festivities

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/04/mac-mini-update-with-dual-display-support-banner-unfurling-rumo/

We've got less than 48 hours until Apple's last Macworld keynote, and the rumor mill keeps hinting that Phil's gonna announce new Mac minis, which so far are purported to have the Macbook's NVIDIA chipset, aluminum casing, and an SATA optical drive that can be swapped out for a second HDD. Go ahead and add dual display support to that list, which is what Apple Insider is speculating based on their sources saying the new minis will sport both a mini DisplayPort and a mini DVI connector. Additionally, the site has managed to snap some shots from the Moscone Center of the expo being set up. There's a picture of a monitor showing what's presumed to be a live feed of the keynote rehearsal with a blurred figure that kind of looks like Al Gore, and inside the south hall there are several mysterious banners concealed in white cloth. So pretty much status quo, though is it just us or do the banners seem to look a little tired and thin this year?

[Via Boy Genius Report]

Read - Apple's next-gen Mac mini to get dual display support
Read - Macworld site rife with concealed banners

Filed under: Desktops

Mac mini update! with du al display support, banner unfurling rumored for Macworld festivities originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 04 Jan 2009 20:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Lenovo adds multi-touch, facial recognition to its S10 netbook

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/05/lenovo-adds-multi-touch-facial-recognition-to-its-s10-netbook/

Lenovo has announced today that its dapper young netbook will be getting an upgrade, starting with a modest boost in screen size -- from 10-inches to 10.2-inches. In addition to this embarrassment of riches, the new IdeaPad S10 netbook will pack LenovoSocial, a suite for "social networking enthusiasts," VeriFace facial recognition tech and a multi-touch trackpad. The MSRP is $349 and you should be able to get this guy sometime in March. Available in black, white, red, blue, or pink. Check out a photo and the full press release after the break.

Continue reading Lenovo adds multi-touch, facial recognition to its S10 netbook

Filed under: Laptops

Lenovo adds multi-touch, facial recognition to its S10 netbook originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 05 Jan 2009 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Samsung prepping 6.5mm LCD for debut at CES

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/05/samsung-prepping-6-5mm-lcd-for-ces/

Samsung Korea has announced it will reveal an ever-so-thin HDTV prototype at CES this week -- a clear trend going into the show. There's a paucity of info about it as of now, but it's going to be between 6.5 and 7mm thick -- and it doesn't appear to be part of the possible lineup we saw leaked a while back. "Thinnest HDTV" ever, huh? We'll see about that soon enough: Samsung's Vegas press conference is scheduled for Wednesday.

Filed under: Displays, HDTV

Samsung prepping 6.5mm LCD for debut at CES originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 05 Jan 2009 01:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Freescale's i.MX515 netbook processor promises low cost, long battery life

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/05/freescales-i-mx515-netbook-processor-promises-low-cost-long-ba/

Look out, Intel -- the whole world's gunning for you, with both VIA (possibly, anyway) and now Freescale looking to snag a sliver of the netbook CPU pie. Reportedly, the latter company will be debuting a netbook-centric chip at CES this week from its i.MX line. More specifically, the i.MX515 -- which is based on the Cortex-A8 core from ARM -- will aim for miniature laptops that sit at or below the almost mythical $199 price point. It's being reported that Freescale will showcase a Pegatron (ASUS spinoff) built netbook in Vegas, though it's not clear just yet if similar models will actually be available for purchase in the near future. The real kicker, however, is the potential battery life of machines with this here chip installed -- we're talking up to eight hours, though there's no indication of what size battery pack would be required to reach that goal. It should be noted that the low-power CPUs won't support Windows at all, so you'll only see 'em within machines with Linux-based operating systems.

[Via PC World]

Filed under: Laptops

Freescale's i.MX515 netbook processor promises low cost, long battery life originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 05 Jan 2009 02:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

JVC 5kg 32-inch LCD to be the lightest, greenest at CES?

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/05/jvc-5kg-32-inch-lcd-to-be-the-lightest-greenest-at-ces/

While Samsung's latest may be slightly narrower, JVC swears its CES prototype will be the lightest 32-inch LCD out, weighing a mere 5kg its perfect for ceiling mounted installations. At 7mm thick they've managed to squeeze 1080p resolution and LED backlighting out of 50% of the materials and less mercury used to produce current designs. A hands on should settle the battle of the thin, expect iPhone comparison pics and contentious weigh ins usually reserved for heavyweight bouts this week in Las Vegas.

Gallery: JVC 7mm, 5kg HDTV

Filed under: CES, HDTV, Home Entertainment

JVC 5kg 32-inch LCD to be the lightest, greenest at CES? originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 05 Jan 2009 03:08:00 EST. Please see ! our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

LG's super slim LED backlit LCD packing wireless HD, DivX HD

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/05/lgs-super-slim-led-backlit-lcd-packing-wireless-hd-divx-hd/

Finally ready to give up further details on its 24.8-mm thick LED backlit LH95 (apparently dubbed the LH9500 in the UK), revealing to Stuff.tv we can expect a 55-inch HDTV with wireless HD box included. DivX HD support on the panel itself (sorry, no word about any Netflix streaming abilities just yet) via USB or Bluetooth makes sure there will be plenty to watch on the 2,000,000:1 contrast screen with 240Hz technology. At least on paper, one of the slimmest, best looking LCDs we've heard about so far, we'll see if it impresses in person shortly.

Filed under: CES, Displays, HDTV

LG's super slim LED backlit LCD packing wireless HD, DivX HD originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 05 Jan 2009 03:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Com ments

Intel, Adobe plan a chicken in every pot, Flash on every HDTV

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/05/intel-adobe-plan-a-chicken-in-every-pot-flash-on-every-hdtv/

Intel's been talking up the CE 3100 (née Canmore) processor for quite some time now, and with Adobe as its newest partner -- late again Yahoo? -- pushing HD Flash streams to Internet connected TV's and set-top boxes. Frankly, we've already gotten quite used to YouTube and other online video access in the living room, but with the first Flash Lite-enabled system-on-a-chip due by mid-2009 and everyone and their mom watching TV on Hulu this could be the push that takes online video to the TV mainstream. Still, Intel must know that only Flash support so 2008, we'll be expecting more widgets to come.

Filed under: CES, HDTV, Home Entertainment

Intel, Adobe plan a chicken in every pot, Flash on every HDTV originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 05 Jan 2009 04:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

LG gets official with Netflix-enabled Broadband HDTVs

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/05/lg-gets-official-with-netflix-enabled-broadband-hdtvs/

Yup, it's official. LG will be showcasing the world's first Netflix-enabled HDTVs at CES this week. The so-called Broadband HDTVs will arrive in plasma and LCD flavors, though exact screen sizes and model names have yet to be disclosed. They'll arrive with Netflix streaming software baked right in, meaning that no external set-top-box will be required to suck down Watch Instantly material. Best of all, it sounds like HD Netflix content will also be supported, and with the accompanying remote, viewers will be able to "read synopses, rate movies and fast-forward / rewind the video stream." No word on pricing, but the family of sets should be shipping this Spring. Hop on past the break for a look at the full release.

Continue reading LG gets official with Netflix-enabled Broadband HDTVs

Filed under: Displays, HDTV, Home Entertainment

LG gets official with Netflix-enabled Broadband HDTVs originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 05 Jan 2009 07:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Clickfree Transformer Cable gives any USB hard drive auto backup functionality

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/05/clickfree-transformer-cable-gives-any-usb-hard-drive-auto-backup/

If you're not about to sell off your current stable of external USB hard drives just to experience the wonders of Clickfree backups, you're staring your solution right in the face. Clickfree has just introduced its new Transformer Cable, which is "the first and only USB cable that turns ordinary external hard drives into truly automatic Clickfree backup solutions." Put simply, users just connect their USB HDD to their PC via this here cable, and without any software installations or black magic, the external drive automatically begins to search through, organize and backup your data. The painfully simple cord should be available right now for the mildly reasonable price of $59.99; full release is after the break.

Continue reading Clickfree Transformer Cable gives any USB hard drive auto backup functionality

Filed under: CES, Storage

Clickfree Transformer Cable gives any USB hard drive auto backup functionality originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 05 Jan 2009 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | ! Email th is | Comments

Wednesday, December 31, 2008

Rumor: Apple Launching Giant iPod Touch Next Fall [Rumor]

Source: http://feeds.gawker.com/~r/gizmodo/full/~3/msTTwVIXbec/rumor-apple-launching-giant-ipod-touch-next-fall

Citing "three independent sources close to Apple," one who has "actually held the device," TechCrunch says Apple is planning to release a giant iPod touch device with a seven- or nine-inch screen next fall.

In other words, it's a tablet running the scaled down version of OS X that's on the iPod touch and iPhone—not the MacBook touch tablet fanboys have been dreaming of since multitouch became a part of their fantasy lexicon, but very much like the Son-of-Newton PDA with an embedded version of OS X we'd heard about a year ago. What makes this giganto iPod touch worthwhile, according to Arrington—over a full-fledged MacBook tablet—is the App Store. (Of course, we'd heard rumors of touch tablet running both the App Store and real Mac apps, though the inherent philosophical dissonance of an App Store + real Mac apps approach never quite neatly resolved itself in our minds.)

One piece of evidence pointing to something like Arrington describes (besides those earlier Son-of-Newton tablet whispers) however, was the mysterious tidbit in October about an Apple product with "a display somewhere between an iPhone and a MacBook" spotted surfing the internets. An iPod touch ! HD w ith 800 or 720x480 resolution would fit in that space pretty nicely, and be an "interesting" take on the netbook.

Still, TechCrunch doesn't say this is an absolutely guaranteed happening: "I'm not saying Apple is definitely launching a large form iPod Touch." As with all rumored Apple products, we'll see it when we see it, probably 12 hours before it's actually announced (if it ever is) in a slightly grainy photo. [TechCrunch]

VuNow PoD Media Streamer Is Cheap and BitTorrent-Ready [Media Streaming]

Source: http://feeds.gawker.com/~r/gizmodo/full/~3/ZuLoo8yqwPQ/vunow-pod-media-streamer-is-cheap-and-bittorrent+ready

While even Blu-ray players are getting into the media streaming business, Verismo Networks has announced the $100/$150 VuNow PoD, promising everything from YouTube to BitTorrent in a clean Apple TVesque interface.

The palm-sized $100 VuNow PoD is standard def and equipped with ethernet, Wi-F and 2 USB ports out of the box.

It's almost hard to summarize everything that the VuNow plays back if you spring for the full (extra $30) codec package. It streams YouTube, Cinemanow, and all sorts of internet-based TV while magaging BitTorrent downloads. Plus it recognizes every codec under the sun through a NAS, networked PC, or just good old USB-based storage.
I know, many of you are shaking your heads at the standard def thing, but the VuNow will also be available in high definition (with HDMI) for $150. Luckily, the high def version includes that whole "premium codec package" thing for free.

Both models are available now on VuNow's site. [VuNow via Wired]

Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)