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Monday, April 07, 2014

drag2share: Samsung Chromebook 2 pre-orders begin in US with 2â3 week delivery

Source: http://gigaom.com/2014/04/07/samsung-chromebook-2-orders-launch/

Both the 11.6- and 13.3-inch Samsung Chromebook 2 can now be ordered in the U.S. OMG Chrome noticed the product pages showing the order information on Monday. Expect to pay $319.99 or $399.99, respectively, and wait a few weeks: Samsung’s product page says the devices will ship in 14–21 business days.

The company announced the pair of Chromebooks on March 3, saying that it was targeting an April launch. The two new Chromebooks are expected to offer a big performance boost over the old $249 model because Samsung is using its own eight-core Exynos 5 in the Chromebook 2 laptops. The 2012 model came with a dual-core Exynos chip. As a result, Samsung says to expect a 125 percent performance boost in the new devices.

The pair also come with 4 GB of memory — helpful for running multiple Chrome apps and having many browser tabs open at the same time. Chromebooks with 2 GB of memory are more prevalent these days and can suffer from page reloads after hours of continuous use or when keeping many tabs open at the same time in Chrome OS. One key difference between the two models is the display resolution, along with the obvious size variance. The larger Chromebook 2 uses a 1920 x 1080 display, while the smaller model has a typical 1366 x 768 screen.

For a limited time, Samsung is adding a bonus item with Chromebook 2 pre-orders: A slim-case to carry the laptop. Both Chromebooks are eligible for the offer.

Related research and analysis from Gigaom Research:
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drag2share: Thanks to Livestream, you can send live broadcasts from Google Glass

Source: http://gigaom.com/2014/04/07/thanks-to-livestream-you-can-send-live-broadcasts-from-google-glass/

Google Glass is shaping up to be a nice little journalism tool. The wearable computer could already take and share photos and as of today, it can broadcast live events. Livestream announced its newest app for Glass on Monday in tandem with the National Association of Broadcasters 2014 conference.

Livestream for Glass isn’t an official Glassware app, meaning Glass owners will have to install it outside of Google’s software repository. Livestream has sideload installations for Glass available for Windows and Mac computers; once installed on Glass through a computer, you can say “OK Glass, Livestream” to show an event online around the world using Livestream’s video platform. The app can also show viewer comments on Glass, which can be responded to through voice using Glass.

Glass could already share video in a Google+ Hangout, but that’s generally with a limited audience. And it doesn’t allow for voice responses to comments. The new Livestream app offers more options that are ideal for reporters on the street to show breaking news on camera. While I wouldn’t expect traditional photojournalists to be replaced by Glass any time soon, Livestream for Glass looks very useful for impromptu news without loads of gear.

Related research and analysis from Gigaom Research:
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drag2share: AT&T is currently experiencing a nationwide blackout in U-verse service.

Source: http://gizmodo.com/at-t-is-currently-experiencing-a-nationwide-blackout-in-1560246976

AT&T is currently experiencing a nationwide blackout in U-verse service. The company says the outage is "due to a power-related issue triggered by a third-party at our video hub." [Mashable]

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drag2share: Strap On Oculus Rift Goggles And Control A Drone With Your Head

Source: http://gizmodo.com/strap-on-oculus-rift-goggles-and-control-a-drone-with-y-1560229495

Strap On Oculus Rift Goggles And Control A Drone With Your Head

Oculus Rift enables you to escape into incredible virtual (or live-action ) worlds, but strapping on the goggles is precisely that—an escape. Which is what makes this new open-source project by Diego Araos so crazy: using the goggles' head-motion tracking feature and live video feed, you can actually navigate an AR drone with a tilt of your noggin.

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drag2share: HP's new DreamColor displays show a billion colors, one is actually affordable

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2014/04/07/hp-dreamcolor-z27x-z24z/

HP's new DreamColor displays show a billion colors, one is actually affordable

Fun fact: as of this writing, HP is still selling a display that came out back in 2008. That would be the DreamColor LP2480xz, a billion-color monitor that got lots of attention by dint of the fact that DreamWorks (yep, that DreamWorks) helped design it. Also, it cost an obscene $3,499, so that raised some eyebrows too. After six years, though -- and many a price cut -- the ol' DreamColor is about to go the way of the dodo. HP just announced two models, both of which have billion-color displays, and one of which costs just $599. (How the times have changed, eh?) Starting with the cheaper model, the Z24x, it has a 24-inch screen, as the name suggests, with 1,920 x 1,080 resolution and a color gamut that include 99 percent of the AdobeRGB range. The Z27x ($1,599), meanwhile, steps up to a 2,560 x 1,440 panel, and covers 100 percent of sRGB, 100 percent of AdobeRGB and 99 percent of DCI-P3. Both are available today, but it's unclear how sweet a deal you'll get if you wait until 2020 to buy.

Filed under: Displays, HP

Source: HP

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drag2share: Uber for deliveries? Courier service to begin in New York City tomorrow

source: http://www.engadget.com/2014/04/07/uber-courier-rumor/?utm_source=Feed_Classic_Full&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget&?ncid=rss_full

The handlebar view of a bike courier in New York City.

It's not just a taxi service anymore -- starting tomorrow, Uber might be getting into the delivery business. According to a NYC Craigslist ad, the company is hiring foot and bike couriers to fill on-demand item pickup and delivery requests in Manhattan, issued and received via the company's smartphone app, naturally. The full details of the service haven't been officially released, but Uber's NYC Twitter account teased a Tuesday reveal.

Update: It's already official. Uber NYC's Josh Mohrer told CNBC that the service is called UberRUSH, and local same-day delivery will cost users between $15 and $30, depending on how far it has to travel. The service's app will allow users to track their parcel's progress too, and deliveries will be available 24-hours a day. Looking for work, or just need a new phone? Check out the want-ad for yourself: employment apparently comes with a free iPhone 4S.

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drag2share: Researchers teach smartphones to recognize your activity, lock out everyone else

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2014/04/07/ga-tech-research-latentgesture/

Swipe patterns, passwords and fingerprint scanners are useful for keeping that mobile device locked down from the outside, but what happens once that code is cracked? Well, cybersecurity researchers at Georgia Tech have developed LatentGesture that continuously monitors gadgets for intruders based on taps and swipes. If the system detects any use patterns that vary from the observed user profiles, it locks the device down. "The system learns a person's 'touch signature,' then constantly compares it to how the current user is interacting with the device," said College of Computing assistant professor Polo Chou.

To create that "touch signature," user activity is monitored in terms of swipes, taps and check boxes, making a custom profile for up to five authorized users. What's more, those accounts can also be used as parental controls to keep kids out of the App Store. The software was found to be 98 percent accurate on phones and showed a 97 percent accuracy on tablets when tested on Android devices during the trial phase. Chau goes on to say that just like our fingerprints, how we interact with touchscreen devices is unique to each person, so having this software running in the background is a non-intrusive way to keep those trusty devices secure. This means that in the future, if someone happens to peep your passcode, you may still have a hope of locking them out before any major damage is done.

Filed under: Software, Mobile

Source: GA Tech

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drag2share: Raspberry Pi's computer now fits in the space of a tiny memory stick

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2014/04/07/raspberry-pi-compute-module/

Raspberry Pi Compute module on the left, original Pi on the right

Didn't think that Raspberry Pi's namesake computer could get any more miniscule? Think again. The organization has unveiled the Compute Module, a board that stuffs the Pi's processor and 4GB of storage into the space of a stick of DDR2 laptop memory; you're looking at the tiny new device on the left. This isn't meant to show off Raspberry Pi's miniaturization skills, though. Fitting the system into a small standard connector lets circuit board builders attach whatever interfaces they like, rather than make do with the built-in ports on a conventional Pi design. You'll have to buy the Compute Module alongside a starter IO Board when the hardware launches this June, but it will eventually be possible to get the modules by themselves. Individual pricing isn't available just yet. However, Raspberry Pi says that large-scale buyers (think educators and entrepreneurs) can buy batches of 100 at about $30 per piece.

Filed under: Misc

Source: Adafruit, Raspberry Pi

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drag2share: There Is Not Yet A Clear Cloud Service Winner On Mobile

source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/businessinsider/~3/9DgXQTR62Bw/there-is-not-yet-a-clear-cloud-service-winner-on-mobile-2014-4

Cloud services are becoming increasingly important in the context of mobile. Many Internet users now conduct related tasks across desktop PCs, tablets, and smartphones, which is why the cloud's ability to sync files across devices is becoming so critical.

And the battle between several prominent cloud services companies is heating up. Box recently filed for a $250 million IPO. And Google and Microsoft both recently announced significant price drops for their services.

Data provided to us by mobile analytics platform Mobidia shows that for now, there isn't yet a clear-cut leader in terms of which mobile cloud services are proving the stickiest with users.

Mobidia's data looked at mobile usage among users of five prominent cloud services on Android in three developed mobile markets — the U.S., U.K., and South Korea — and found that there is a different leader in each market in terms of the time cloud users spent with an individual service. Moreover, the leader in each market doesn't have a terribly huge leg up.

In the U.S., Google Drive saw the highest average weekly usage on mobile at roughly 4.67 minutes per user, followed by Box with just under 4 minutes.
In the U.K., Box led the way with 4.2 minutes per week followed by Microsoft's OneDrive (formerly known as SkyDrive) with 3.75 minutes per week.
In South Korea, Dropbox is used for 3.5 minutes per week on average, followed by Microsoft's OneDrive at about 3.2 minutes per week. Interestingly, Box and Google Drive see about one-quarter as much usage in South Korea as in the U.S. This suggests that users of these services in South Korea are not bothering to turn to them often.

While time spent by users of each mobile cloud service isn't a clear indicator of which service is winning the race to attract users, we think that average time spent does provide a good early indicator of which services are catching on. Those services that early adopters integrate into their mobile lives first are the ones most likely to reach a broader audience.

For now, no one service is winning out for time-spend, and this may be because each offers different features. For example, Box is geared toward the enterprise market, while Google Drive and Microsoft's OneDrive work with other Google or Microsoft services. These services appeal to users who would like to have all of their data and files synced seamlessly.

As app development progresses, it's likely more apps will add cloud syncing functionality, giving greater opportunity for one company to step in and take over. Although the race is seemingly wide open at this point, look for one or several of these companies to attempt to lock-down the mobile-cloud service space.

Click here to download the chart and data in Excel.

CloudStorageMobileUse

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drag2share: The Micro is a $200 3D printer that can make a teacup in an hour

source: http://www.engadget.com/2014/04/07/The-micro-3d-printer/?utm_source=Feed_Classic_Full&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget&?ncid=rss_full

There are more than a couple of reasons why 3D printing hasn't truly hit critical mass, and the team at M3D thinks it's sidestepped them with The Micro, its $200 - $300 3D printer. The Micro is hitting Kickstarter today with the sole intention of becoming the first consumer 3D printer that's at once accessible, affordable and easy on the eyes.

"The dream here is definitely that you take something and install it as fast as the fastest plug-and-play device that you've ever seen and you're focused on the end result," Michael Armani, M3D's CEO tells us. "You take the design, put it in the printer, it prints as quickly as possible. The focus here isn't on the 3D printing process ... [it's] on 'yeah, I want to make a mold for chocolates.' It went to the fun part so you can enjoy it as much as possible."

For example, we asked how long it would take from initial unboxing to having a spot of tea from the cup in the project's pitch video. The only reasons there'll be more than an hour between you and that first cup of Earl Grey are your teakettle and steeping preferences.

But even then, ease-of-use doesn't particularly matter if one of 3D printing's biggest barriers to entry doesn't change: price. Should you miss out on The Micro's limited early-bird $200 backing tier, getting a fully-assembled unit in your home will still only run $300.

"When we looked at 3D printers, we saw that the field was becoming hyped and that everyone was super curious about it," Armani says. "They can't go to Brookstone and try something that's in the price range of a present or a college gift, or something to try out and risk a little money on - they're all $2,000 or more."

The Micro doesn't come off like an Erector set project, it looks like a gadget.

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drag2share: Microsoft announces Skype TX with studio-grade audio and video for broadcasters

source: http://www.engadget.com/2014/04/07/skype-tx-for-broadcasters/?utm_source=Feed_Classic_Full&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget&?ncid=rss_full

Today, Microsoft's unveiling Skype TX, a new version of its VoIP service geared toward broadcasters. The service uses technology developed by Cat and Mouse -- a recent MSFT acquisition -- to offer the higher-quality audio and video output that media professionals require. (It also supports the broadcast-standard HD-SDI interface.) Skype TX can handle multiple calls at once through a single interface, and it will eliminate distractions such as call notifications and ads. Considering how often radio stations both big and small rely on Skype to beam in guests, TX definitely has a target audience. Microsoft hasn't addressed pricing or release timing, but we'll likely be getting a look at the product in action here at NAB.

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drag2share: GoPro Channel with exclusive content launches on Xbox 360 tomorrow

source: http://www.engadget.com/2014/04/07/gopro-channel-launches-on-xbox-360/?utm_source=Feed_Classic_Full&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget&?ncid=rss_full

Back in January, GoPro tipped us off that it was bringing a dedicated channel to Xbox 360 and Xbox One. At the time, we didn't really have much more info, other than it was a port of the company's existing offering that had been entertaining Virgin America customers since last fall. ~~Today~~ Tomorrow we get to see it for real. Well, that's if you're an Xbox 360 owner -- because as promised it's landing there first. If you're an Xbox Live Gold subscriber, then you're basically all set, ready to enjoy some of the exclusive content that GoPro is slinging onto the channel by means of launch celebration (teasers for which, are after the break). As well as viewing curated GoPro videos, users will also (handily) be able to purchase cameras and accessories without even putting down the controller, including the exact kit used in that particular video. While there's still no word on when it will land on the latest generations Xbox (other than "summer"), we're fairly confident you'll be able to view your fave triple cork videos on even more devices and platforms by the end of the year.

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drag2share: NVIDIA's Shield can now stream your PC games when you're out of the house

source: http://www.engadget.com/2014/04/07/nvidia-shield-april-update/?utm_source=Feed_Classic_Full&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget&?ncid=rss_full

People scoffed when NVIDIA first revealed the Shield (just check out these comments), but a slew of software updates are turning it into one of the best Android gaming gewgaws out there. Speaking of which, this month's update has just gone live and it's a doozy. Once installed, you can use your Shield to remotely play up to 100 supported games that live on your home PC (assuming you've got a solid network connection, that is) as well as stream games running on properly equipped laptops too. Throw in support for Bluetooth keyboards and mice for games that require plenty of precision (we're looking at you, Civ 5) and you've got yourself a hefty little package to install. Between all these updates and that temporary $50 price cut NVIDIA announced last month, it's clear that the company is committed to the Shield vision -- now we just need to see if consumers inundated with mobile gaming options finally take the plunge.

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drag2share: Blackmagic's 4K URSA camera features massive 10-inch 1080p display, ships in June for $6,000

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2014/04/07/blackmagic-ursa/

Consumers may not be familiar with Blackmagic Design, but the firm's cameras are all the rage with filmmakers at NAB, drawing enormous crowds within seconds of the show floor opening up to attendees. This year's flagship is the URSA, a relatively massive 4K camera with an enormous 10-inch 1080p flip-out display. There are also two five-inch monitors on each side, displaying everything from camera settings to a duplicate preview. Another highlight is the Super 35 image sensor (the same used in Blackmagic's existing 4K cam), which is upgradeable should you wish to swap in a refreshed version down the line. You also get plenty of SDI inputs and outputs, XLR mic jacks and either a Canon EF or PL lens mount.

We spent a few minutes shooting with the EF version with a Canon 85mm f/1.2 lens. The preview looked fantastic -- with such a large, high-res display, it's easy to confirm focus without enlarging, though you'll want to take extra care when capturing in 4K. There's definitely no shortage of readouts, with the secondary LCDs providing all the necessary info. The EF version will retail for $6,000, while the PL flavor is set to ship for $6,500 (though you can swap lens mounts later on if you upgrade the sensor module). Both models are expected in stores this June or July. Check 'em out in our hands-on video.

Sarah Silbert contributed to this report.

Filed under: Cameras

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drag2share: Thunderbolt 2 Networking enables 10 Gbps Ethernet connection, supports Macs and PCs

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2014/04/07/thunderbolt-2-networking/

Intel's Thunderbolt 2 connectivity standard is getting an update here at NAB 2014 with the addition of Thunderbolt Networking. Put simply, this new feature will let you pair computers with a Thunderbolt cable, with a throughout of 10 Gbps between the two machines for super-fast file-sharing. Additionally, thanks to a driver currently available on OS X Mavericks, you'll be able to connect a Mac to a PC (or Mac to Mac) with the new technology. Of course, the ability to quickly transfer data between PCs is important to filmmakers and photographers -- especially those working with 4K footage. Intel's on hand here with a demo that will likely mimic the workflow of the media types at this show. We'll be back with footage soon -- stay tuned!

Filed under: Networking, Intel

Source: Intel

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