New Metamaterial Camera Has Super-Fast Microwave Vision
Source: http://www.wired.com/wiredscience/2013/01/new-metamaterial-camera/
Monday, January 21, 2013
How Keys Work Explained In One Perfect Animated GIF
Source: http://gizmodo.com/5977794/how-keys-work-explained-in-one-perfect-animated-gif
Micromax's five-inch, quad-core Canvas HD hitting India first week of February
Source: http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/21/micromax-canvas-hd/
What better time to announce a smartphone than in the lull between CES and MWC? Micromax is using the occasion to reveal another five-inch handset, the Canvas HD. The display packs a 1,280 x 720 resolution, and inside you'll find a MediaTek MT6589 1.2 GHz quad-core processor and a 2100mAh battery. The phone's also got an 8-megapixel rear camera and expandable storage up to 32GB. All of that's powered by Android 4.1. The Canvas HD is coming to India the first week of February, carrying a Rs. 15,000 ($279) price tag. Assorted additional information can be found in the press release after the break.
Show full PR text
Micromax launches Canvas HD to strengthen phablet leadership
Micromax, India's leading handset manufacture today announced its partnership with MediaTek, the leading chipset manufacturers for the launch of their first quad core processor phone -A116 Canvas HD.
Designed for comfort and convenience, the Canvas HD is powered by MediaTek's MT6589 1.2 GHz quad core processor and run on Android Jelly Bean. With an HD IPS screen with a HD resolution of 1280x720 and a color depth of 16.7 million, the phone comes with superb graphics and HD viewing experience. Supported by a 2100mAh battery, it is the ideal phone for the young generation who is always on the lookout for better, faster and savvier smart phones on the go!
Commenting on the launch and association with MediaTek, Mr. Deepak Mehrotra, Chief Executive Officer, Micromax said, "At Micromax, we constantly strive to innovate and develop great technological experiences for our consumers. Today's launch ma! rks our association with MediaTek to bring forth our first quad core phone in this segment, offering consumers a great user experience with latest features and added functionality." He further added, "We are excited with the success of Canvas 2, which has clearly established Micromax as number one player in the new 5" phablet category in India. We are looking forward to similar success with the new phone being unveiled today."
The A116 Canvas HD promises superior quality graphics, multi-tasking and improved application performance. The phone sports an 8MP rear camera with LED flash and multiple camera settings such as night mode, 4X zoom - to further enhance the superiority of the memorable moments. 3G enabled A116 will help users in faster browsing, downloading attachments and watching streaming videos with excellent quality. The users can download HD quality videos and watch them on their phone without compromising with the quality. Users now can get to keep all their downloaded music by storing them in the phone's external memory which is expandable up to 32GB.
Speaking at the occasion, Dr. Finbarr Moynihan, General Manager - Business Development at MediaTek, said, "In less than 2 years of launching our first smartphone chipset, MediaTek's shipments in this category have grown more than ten times, with 110 million units in 2012. As the world's first commercialized quad-core Cortex-A7 SoC, the MT6589 is an innovative solution that accelerates product development, simplifies differentiation, and offers the best possible experience that mid to high-end smart device owners desire. Micromax shares our core philosophy of pushing the bar on innovation and bringing it within the reach of the masses. We are delighted that India's leading youth mobile brand has chosen MediaTek to power its top-end mobile smartphones."
Filed under: Cellphones, Mobile
Planetary Resources shows off Arkyd-100 prototype, gives a tour of its workspace
Source: http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/21/planetary-resources/
We last heard about Planetary Resources back in April of last year, when the team formally announced plans to mine asteroids for things like water and precious metals like platinum. Chris Lewicki, who sports the unspeakably cool title of president and chief asteroid miner, assures us all that his team has been very hard at work in the interim. While he's not quite ready to show everything off just yet (due, in part, to intellectual property concerns), the space executive gave the internet a glimpse of the Arkyd-100 mechanical prototype, a space telescope and technology demonstrator packed into a dense 11 kilograms.
In the below video, Lewicki give a quick walk around the lightweight, low-cost prototype. There's also a glimpse of the of the company's Class 10,000 clean room and Arkyd-100 manufacturing facility.
Filed under: Science
Source: Planetary Resources
Swann Bolt HD action camera shoots 1080p video, 12MP stills with laser targeting
We're starting to wonder where introducing lasers doesn't make everything better. Case in point: Swann's just-shipping Bolt HD action camera. While the 1080p video, microSD storage and 135-degree lens will be familiar from the Freestyle HD we saw in 2011, there's now a laser pointer to make sure the camera is on target when it isn't an option to peek through the detachable LCD. A sleeker look and an upgrade to 12-megapixel still photos also give us reason to upgrade. It's not a uniform move upwards from the Freestyle HD, however -- the Bolt HD can only submerge to 32 feet versus the 65 of its ancestor. As long as your scuba dives don't run that deep, however, the lower $200 price for the new camera might prove tempting.
Show full PR text
Swann Security Unleashes Bolt HD[TM], A High Definition Waterproof and Wearable Mini Action Camera
Waterproof camera and DVR combo lets adrenaline junkies capture their most extreme moments
Santa Fe Springs, Calif. - (January 20, 2013) - Swann Security, the global leader in security monitoring solutions, proudly debuts the Bolt HD[TM] mini high definition action camera. Making its debut at the 2013 International CES, this mini HD camera / DVR combo is rugged, waterproof and comes with a myriad of mounting options so outdoor enthusiasts can live and relive their most extreme moments. The Bolt HD is available at ww! w.swann. com for $199.99.
At the core of Bolt HD is a color camera that can record 1080p or Full HD high resolution video at real time or 12 MP still images. With a built in laser pointer, Bolt HD allows the user to confirm the camera is on target and ready to shoot. The protected lens allows the user to record more with a 135 degree angle lens. The Bolt HD has an included stereo microphone that enables audio recordings to not only see but hear the action. The device stores approximately 10 hours of video recordings on a removable MicroSD card (up to 32GB), so users can easily swap out cards while on the go. Bolt HD's mini HDMI connection allows the user to connect right in to their home TV to relive the action in HD right away. Bolt HD is powered by a lithium-ion battery that recharges via USB and gives the user hours of life per charge.
Not only is the Bolt HD shockproof, but it's also waterproof up to 32'. Equipped with a number of mounting options, Bolt HD is an ideal solution for a variety of sports and outdoor applications. With no dials, gauges, knobs or any preferences to configure, users simply turn it on, strap it on and hit record.
Bolt HD Features Include:
* Record professional high definition action videos at 1080p (1920 x 1080 pixels) in real time (30fps) with stereo audio
* Use the laser pointer to check the camera is on target and shoot in any conditions with waterproof casing to 32ft below the surface
* Relive the action in high definition with mini HDMI connection
* Record footage to MicroSD card (up to 32GB), or use the USB cable to transfer to PC or Mac for easy uploading to your favorite websites
* Convenient lithium-ion battery is rechargeable via USB with hours of recording per charge
* Wearable mounts include: curved surface mount, Helmet mount, flat surface mount
* ! Wireless Remote
Availability
Swann's Bolt HD (MSRP-$199) is available through Swann's network of retailers and at www.swann.com.
Filed under: Cameras
Source: B&H
ASUS MeMo Pad 10 makes unexpected appearance, could become official at MWC (video)
Source: http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/21/asus-memo-pad-10-video/
It's been but a mere few days since ASUS quietly introduced that Jelly Bean-loaded, 7-inch Memo Pad, though if a recent video shown off on YouTube is to be believed, the company's got yet another, larger Memo Pad up its sleeve. Such tablet's said to be the MeMo Pad 10, which has yet to be officially unveiled by the Taiwanese firm but has somehow made its way to the folks over at MobileArena. Just like its smaller sibling, the MeMo Pad 10 is reportedly sporting a flavor of Android's latest, but, as its moniker would imply, a 10-inch (1280 x 800) display is among the highlights here -- other purported specs include a 1.2GHz Tegra 3 CPU, 1GB RAM and 16GB of built-in storage (which could be expanded via microSD). We'll have to wait and see if ASUS makes a MeMo Pad 10 announcement in a few weeks at Mobile World Congress; until then, however, there's a video after the break for anyone interested in getting an early peek at the slate.
Via: Android Communit! y
Source: MobileArsenaldotcom (YouTube)
Report: The Next BlackBerry Will Cost Less Than $199 (RIMM)
Source: http://www.businessinsider.com/blackberry-z10-pricing-2013-1
BGR has a huge feature on BlackBerry 10 with a 100-screenshot tour of RIM's next operating system.
BGR says this version of BlackBerry 10 is the "Gold Master," or the final version that will appear on new BlackBerry phones when they launch in a few weeks.
The source who provided the images also told BGR the new phone, called the BlackBerry Z10, will cost less than $199 on contract.
That leaves a lot of wiggle room, but it sounds like RIM is willing to sell its new phone on the cheaper side in the hope that people will choose it over other top-tier phones that cost $199 and up.
Now go to BGR and look at all the screenshots of BB10 >
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Scientists Spot Quadruple Helix DNA Working in Human Cells
Source: http://gizmodo.com/5977579/scientists-spot-quadruple-helix-dna-working-in-human-cells
The researchers have published a paper in Nature Chemistry which demonstrates the existence and function of quadruple helix human DNA. The researchers believe it might be related to cancer—and that understanding it could be key to treating the disease in the future. Prof Shankar Balasubramanian from Cambridge University explains to the BBC:
"The existence of these structures may be loaded when the cell has a certain genotype or a certain dysfunctional state. We need to prove that; but if that is the case, targeting them with synthetic molecules could be an interesting way of selectively targeting those cells that have this dysfunction."
The four-stranded DNA is known as the G-quadruplex. That "G" refers to guanine, which is one of the four chemical bases which form DNA, and it seems the quadruple helix tends to form wherever there are unusually high concentrations of the base. The team were able to spot the G-quadruplex in human cells by creating proteins that bind to its structure—made possible by the fact that it's been spotted before in microscopic organisms called ciliates. The scientists watched as the quadruplex became more prevalent during cell division.
Now the researchers know that the four-stranded DNA is present in humans, they're set to explore its implications for cancer treatment. "I'm hoping now that the pharmaceutical companies will bring this on to their radar and we can perhaps take a more serious look at whether quadruplexes are indeed therapeutically viable targets," Balasubramaninan told the BBC. Here's hoping he's onto something. [Nature Chemistry via BBC]
Permaduino makes your Arduino projects permanent (video)
Source: http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/20/permaduino-makes-your-arduino-projects-permanent-video/
Arduinos are fun to tinker with, but there's one problem. Once you've built something cool, you pretty much have to tear it down to use your board for another project. Sure, you can always buy multiple Arduino boards or proto shields, but what if you want to turn your creation into something a bit more permanent and a lot more compact? Say hello to Permaduino, a small battery-powered Arduino prototype board that just launched on Indiegogo. It features an Atmega328P (natch), two AAA battery holders with a 3 to 5V DC-DC converter (up to 180mA), a 25-column breadboard with VCC and ground, plus FTDI, AVR-ISP and USB interfaces. Best of all, Permanuino conveniently fits inside a standard 8mm videotape case (as long as you don't mount large components on that breadboard). Interested? Hit the break for the Indiegogo link and campaign video.
Filed under: Misc
Source: Permaduino (Indiegogo)
Sony's Xperia Tablet Z announced: 1.5GHz quad-core, 10.1-inch 1,920 x 1,200 screen and 6.9mm thickness
Source: http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/20/sony-xperia-tablet-z/
Announced bright and early in Japan today is the Sony Xperia Tablet Z that we've been hearing about. As you'd expect, this 10.1-inch Android 4.1 tablet features the same design language as its smartphone counterpart, but it's what's inside that really sells this device: a Qualcomm 1.5GHz quad-core APQ8064 processor, 2GB RAM, 32GB storage, a 10.1-inch 1,920 x 1,200 screen (with Mobile Bravia Engine 2), an 8.1-megapixel Exmor R camera, NFC, LTE (MDM9215M radio), microSD expansion and Sony's very own "S-Force" virtual surround sound technology. Amazingly, these are all packed tightly into a 6.9mm-thick, 495g-heavy body which not only takes a huge leap from the retiring Xperia Tablet S, but it also beats the Toshiba Excite 10 LE that was once the champion in both fields. That's right, Sony now has the world's thinnest and lightest 10-inch tablet! Oh, and did we mention that the Tablet Z is both waterproof and dustproof as well? We'll update you guys once we get hold of info on pricing and availability.
Update: For those wondering, Blog of Mobile says this new tablet packs a 6,000mAh battery, which is actually a tad smaller than the Excite 10 LE's 6,690mAh cell. Hopefully Sony's power management will bring its tablet up to about the same mobility performance.
Source: Sony Mobile
HTC M7 purportedly spied brandishing Sense 5.0
Source: http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/20/htc-m7-purportedly-spied-brandishing-sense-5-0/
It's that special time again -- that time when Mobile World Congress looms, and HTC fans wonder what design philosophy they'll live with for the next year. We might have just been given a peek at their future. Android Police claims to have a photo and screenshots for the M7, a prototype HTC smartphone that previously only existed in a slightly sketchy 3D render. The design appears to take a handful of cues from the Droid DNA, although there's touches front and back (such as different front camera and rear flash positions) that suggest it's not a carbon copy. What may matter most is the software: the M7 appears to be running Sense 5.0, which could bring a stripped-back look while adding new widgets for at-a-glance news and tips.
Before we declare this a preview of what we'll see in Barcelona, though, we'd do well to point out some of the more glaring uncertainties beyond just the lack of internal hardware details. The capacitive buttons sit unusually high on the front, for one; and they are in an unusual order -- the home button isn't in the middle. There's also none of the usual regulatory markings on the back -- even if authentic, this may be a prototype that doesn't reflect the final result. Whether it's the real thing or just wishful thinking, we may find out in a little over a month's time.
Update: It is worth pointing out that the time, weather and the length of the black bar over the location name in the widget suggest this device was spied in Taipei, the home of HTC. Unless, of course, this was a carefully calculated hoax.
Filed under: Cel lphones, Mobile, HTC
Source: Android Police
Sunday, January 20, 2013
Cyber-Espionage Platform Red October Is Already Pulling Its Tendrils Back Into the Dark
It looks like Red October is a bit bashful. After the big reveal, Red October's infrastructure started going offline. Domain names associated with the project have begun to disappear, as well as hosting for command and control servers. It's like the whole project is packing up and going home now that the secret' is out.
While that could be the case, to a certain extent, Red October is known for being resilient and having layers upon layers of proxy defense. The "mothership" has not been located, so there's still a juicy core of stolen intel somewhere out there. The retraction of recently discovered feelers only makes sense as a move to protect it. The question is: has Red October been thwarted by being found out, or is it just pulling into hibernation until everyone forgets about it, only to come back with new tools and now proxies? My money is on the latter. [Threatpost via Ars Technica]
LG Optimus G sales hit 1 million worldwide
Source: http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/20/lg-optimus-g-sales/
LG proved with the Optimus G that it can produce a smartphone that stacks up with the best of 'em, and according to the company's newly released sales figures, consumers are starting to take notice. As it stands, more than 1 million Optimus G's have been sold since the handset's September debut. While the figure pales in comparison to heavyweights like the Galaxy S III and iPhone 5, that's not too shabby for a phone that's only been available in North America since November. Given the similarities between the Optimus G and the Nexus 4, we're quite curious to know how sales of the two smartphones compare, but Google's currently keeping those numbers close to its chest. That said, there's little doubt that LG currently has its hands full at the production line.
Filed under: Cellphones, Mobile, LG
Via: GSM Arena
Source:! Yonhap News
The Simplest Stock Market Indicator In The World Continues To Work Amazingly
Source: http://www.businessinsider.com/january-20-sp-500-vs-initial-claims-2013-1
We've run this chart a million times, but we're not getting bored of it.
The S&P 500 vs. weekly initial jobless claims continues to be a beautiful chart, as the two lines have moved in virtual lockstop through the last five years. When Jobless Claims improve, stocks improve. When the opposite happens, stocks down down.
The primary takeaway from the chart: The market rally is based on fundamentals of the economy. Forget headlines or great rotations or the Fed. It's still all about the economy.
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Saturday, January 19, 2013
Google Handwrite gets better at interpreting your multi-lingual finger scribbles
Source: http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/18/google-handwrite-update/
When Google's Handwrite feature launched this past summer, we welcomed the ability to compose our queries instead of pecking keys. Problem is, Handwrite had a bad habit of confusing our 1's and l's -- and despite the growing size of smartphone screens, it's still difficult to fit written words on them. Well, Big G has solved those problems with the latest Handwrite upgrades. The system now provides alternative interpretations of ambiguous characters so you can choose what's propper, and it lets you write letters on top of one another instead of spelling them out across the width of the screen. Not only that, folks who search using Chinese characters are no longer limited to single-character input. Want to know if it can interpret your chicken scratch? Head on over to Google.com and enable Handwrite under settings on the iOS or Android device of your choosing.
Filed under: Cellphones, Tablets, Google
Source: Inside Search: The official Google Search Blog
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