Dr. Augustine Fou's Online Scrapbook

Friday, July 23, 2010

$35 Dollar Tablet Will Cost $20, Eventually $10 [Computers]

Source: http://gizmodo.com/5594441/35-dollar-tablet-will-cost-20-eventually-10

Dollar Tablet Will Cost , Eventually The Indian government has revealed its super-super-low-priced tablet computer, which it says it'll start selling to students this year—for $35. It's a bit bulky, but for $35 you can't really whine about the bezel size.

Indian authorities expect to be able to make and sell the chunky computer for $35 at first, before economies of scale bring that down to $20—and eventually $10. But it won't be a stripped-down, feature-light machine—the impressive hardware spec includes support for video conferencing, PDF and multimedia compatibility, internet access (with Flash!) and much more.

The full press release from the Indian government's HR department can be read here. [TNW]

Apple starts refunding Bumper purchases automagically

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/23/apple-starts-refunding-bumper-purchases-automatically/

Automatic refunds, or so the email says. We've been on the receiving end of a deluge of tips this morning pointing out that Apple has begun funneling cash back into its users' pockets -- a most unusual event, to be sure -- to live up to its retroactive promise of free Bumpers for all (who buy their iPhone 4 before September 30). If the particular wording is to be trusted, that should mean that even those who haven't yet bothered to put in a claim, but did purchase a Bumper, will find themselves enriched in due course. Apple estimates this bandaid solution to its antenna problems will cost $175 million in real cash money, but we suspect the biggest price to pay will be in the form of pride and reputation.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Apple starts refunding Bumper purchases automagically originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 23 Jul 2010 01:32:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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iMac refresh is imminent, according to reseller sources

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/23/imac-refresh-is-imminent-according-to-reseller-sources/

The latest word from behind Apple-authorized cashiers is that Cupertino has stopped shipping out fresh stock of its entry-level 21-inch iMac. The Core 2 Duo-equipped machines were already looking long in the tooth in this Core i-something era, and so predictably the latest speculation centers around the idea of Apple taking its full iMac range into Core i3, i5 and i7 territory. Nobody really knows any of the specs for the moment, but resellers are apparently being advised to sell through what stock they have and to "keep inventories lean" for the next few weeks. Considering Apple's last all-in-one overhaul coincided with the introduction of the Magic Mouse, we're starting to suspect the company might have another iMac plus touch input device combo coming -- potentially in the very near future.

iMac refresh is imminent, according to reseller sources originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 23 Jul 2010 05:05:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Electronista | source

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AppleInsider | Email this | Comments

Microsoft Uses Forensic Tech To Catch Software Counterfeiters [Counterfeiting]

Source: http://gizmodo.com/5594134/microsoft-uses-csi+style-forensic-tech-to-catch-software-counterfeiters

Microsoft Uses Forensic Tech To Catch Software Counterfeiters Microsoft takes fighting software counterfeiting so seriously that it's looking at crime-scene forensic technology for inspiration. Apparently the software maker is using custom microscopes to match counterfeit discs to their creators—just like bullets to guns:

At a crime lab in Dublin, Microsoft's Donal Keating uses a custom-built microscope to take 72 high-resolution images of a counterfeit software disc. Just as police use ballistics to match bullets to a suspect's gun, Keating, the company's senior forensics manager, will use the abrasions and grooves on the stacking ring, a raised ridge around the disc's center, to match it to other fakes. He'll then try to trace the counterfeit disc to the factory and the crime syndicate that produced it.

In addition to using these specialized microscopes and ballistics matches, Microsoft is also using a technique that "involves identifying digital traces left behind by the laser that stamped the disc."

Surely these techniques are used by large forensic teams, but I'm just picturing a dimly lit crime lab with Microsoft's version of Abby Sciuto telling her boss just where a fishy copy of Microsoft Office was produced. [Business Week]

Image via Fanpop

Front rendered surround sound is not a gimmick

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/22/front-rendered-surround-sound-is-not-a-gimmick/

Vizio Soundbar with SRS TruSurround HD

Yes, we know what you're thinking because it is what we used to; but after some extensive testings with the latest SRS front rendered surround sound technologies, we can't call it a gimmick anymore than any other surround sound we've tried. Now that we've gotten that off our chest, we would like clarify what technologies like SRS TheaterSound and SRS TruSurround HD are; both are sound processing technologies that enhance two speaker systems, and while we won't call them a gimmick, we won't be throwing our rear speakers away just yet. That doesn't mean they don't have a place in any home theater, but if you're interested in knowing where they do fit in, well, you'll just have to click through and read the rest for that tidbit.

Gallery: SRS TheaterSound and TruSurround HD

Continue reading Front rendered surround sound is not a gimmick

Front rendered surround sound is not a gimmick originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 22 Jul 2010 11:59:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Microsoft confirms Windows Phone 7 manufacturers: ASUS, Dell, HTC, LG, and Samsung all on board

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/22/microsoft-confirms-windows-phone-7-manufacturers-asus-dell-ht/

Microsoft is no stranger to having partners galore in the phone business, but its lineup of manufacturers for the upcoming, surprisingly promising Windows Phone 7 launch is no less impressive. After plenty of rumoring, Microsoft has confirmed that Dell and HTC will be making Windows Phone 7 phones, in addition to ASUS, LG, and Samsung who had already been confirmed. All of these companies should have their stamp on hardware by the end of the year, with the launch of the OS still vaguely slated for the "holidays." We have no doubt that all five manufacturers can build some compelling, sexy hardware, but we're particularly enthused to see Dell really getting into the game after the impressive Streak and that drool-worthy leak a little while back. It's a good time to be alive if you're a person who buys or uses phones.

Microsoft confirms Windows Phone 7 manufacturers: ASUS, Dell, HTC, LG, and Samsung all on board originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:14:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

The Inquirer | source

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Pocket-lint | Email this | Comments

AmpliTube for iPad available, Yngwie Malmsteen en route to Apple Store

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/22/amplitube-for-ipad-available-yngwie-malmsteen-en-route-to-apple/

Just a quick note for all of you virtual amping enthusiasts: IK Multimedia has announced that the AmpliTube is now available for iPad. As you'd expect, it works with your iRig hardware and the UI seems benefit from the extra screen real estate (let's be honest -- twiddling all those knobs and stomp boxes on the iPod Touch was a little bit much for us to take). It comes in two flavors: free (three effects, one amp, one cab, two mics) or $20 (11 effects, five amps and cabs, two mics). Either way it's cheaper than spending $350 for the OS X version. PR after the break.

Continue reading AmpliTube for iPad available, Yngwie Malmsteen en route to Apple Store

AmpliTube for iPad available, Yngwie Malmsteen en route to Apple Store originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 22 Jul 2010 16:51:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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IK Multimedia | Email this | Comments

Samsung Galaxy S review shootout: Captivate for AT&T and Vibrant for T-Mobile

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/22/samsung-galaxy-s-review-shootout-captivate-for-atandt-and-vibrant/

We've got to hand it to Samsung with its Galaxy S line. Coordinating the launch of a single family of devices across all four national US carriers (plus a regional or two) is a feat very rarely accomplished, and usually reserved for really unique handsets that those carriers wouldn't be able to effectively source from anyone else; HTC's Touch Pro2 is a prime example of that. Add to that the murky issue of exclusivity periods... and, well, yeah, Samsung definitely has reason to be proud here -- on the business end of things, anyway. Never mind the awesome contractual maneuvering that undoubtedly took place to make this all happen, though -- we all know that it's the hardware (and software) that really counts. Today we're looking at the first two models of the American run, the Captivate for AT&T and the Vibrant for T-Mobile; Verizon's Fascinate and Sprint's QWERTY- and WiMAX-equipped Epic 4G are still forthcoming, though we expect the Fascinate to be largely similar to these first two.

Beyond their simple appeal as sexy, high-end Android phones, what makes the Captivate and Vibrant especially interesting is that they are actually their respective carriers' only high-end Android phones at the moment. In other words: if 1GHz processors and high-res AMOLED displays are how you roll, these are basically the only game in town if you're on AT&T or T-Mobile -- particularly now that Nexus One sales are winding down. Do they rise to the challenge? Let's have a look.

Gallery: Samsung Galaxy S review shootout: Captivate for AT&T and Vibrant for T-Mobile

Continue reading Samsung Galaxy S review shootout: Captivate for AT&T and Vibrant for T-Mobile

Samsung Galaxy S review shootout: Captivate for AT&T and Vibrant for T-Mobile originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 22 Jul 2010 16:20:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Thursday, July 22, 2010

RT @glenngabe: Despite Enormous Popularity, Old Spice Guy Not Helping Sales http://ping.fm/xC38v h/t @wilreynolds viral does not = $

Droid X users gobbling up 5x the data of other Verizon smartphones

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/22/droid-x-users-gobbling-up-5x-the-data-of-other-verizon-smartphon/

Been wondering why Verizon would seek to curb its unlimited data plans with bogus restrictions? Wonder no more. Jennifer Byrne, a business development executive director at Big Red, has shared with us the shocking stat that early data usage from Droid X owners is five times what other smartphones are suckling down. Clearly, the jumbo screen is being used to the fullest by those lucky enough to get an X when they wanted one, and Verizon is (outwardly, at least) really, really excited to see such keen use of its network. Enjoy it while it lasts, Droidsters!

Droid X users gobbling up 5x the data of other Verizon smartphones originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 22 Jul 2010 07:52:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Pocketnow, AndroidSPIN | source

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paidContent.org | Email this | Comments

Droid X can now be counted among the rooted

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/22/droid-x-can-now-be-counted-among-the-rooted/

It's recently come to our attention that Birdman over at the AllDroid.org forums has rooted the Droid X. By all accounts (which, at the time of this writing, consists of two forum posts that exclaim "it works!") things are going beautifully, so what do you think? Ready to pierce the soft underbelly of your smartphone's OS? Been dying to get a hot session of ADB going? Hit the source link, and remember: if you brick your phone, you only have yourself to blame.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Droid X can now be counted among the rooted originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 22 Jul 2010 09:14:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Olive Pad VT100 brings a voice-capable, 7-inch Android tablet to India's airwaves

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/22/olive-pad-vt100-brings-a-voice-capable-7-inch-android-tablet-to/

Ha, and you thought Dell's Streak was pushing the boundaries of what's acceptable to hold to one's ear. In a bid to make even the xpPhone look diminutive, Olive Telecom has just announced India's first 3.5G Android (2.1 for now) tablet in the Olive Pad VT100. This 7-inch slate is said to boast an 800 x 480 resolution on a capacitive touchpanel, not to mention Bluetooth, WiFi, an SD card slot, 512MB of internal memory (plus 512MB ROM), a 3.5mm audio jack, 3 megapixel camera, mini USB socket and a 3,240mAh battery. There's also a mysterious front facing camera for video calls, and sure enough, this thing actually supports voice, which may very well make it the largest smartphone to launch in 2010. If all goes well, it'll seep out in India next month, with a price of around Rs.20000 to Rs.25000, or $425 to $530 in terms of Greenbacks. We wouldn't get our hopes up for an immediate launch in North America, but word on the street has it that Russia and Europe could see this bad boy in the not-too-distant future.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Continue reading Olive Pad VT100 brings a voice-capable, 7-inch Android tablet to India's airwaves

Olive Pad VT100 brings a voice-capable, 7-inch Android tablet to India's airwaves originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 22 Jul 2010 10:25:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Olive Telecom, fone arena | Email this | Comments

Nook for Android now available to download, offers eBook lending

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/22/nook-for-android-now-available-to-download-offers-ebook-lending/

Well, what do you know? Turns out you don't actually need to invest in a Nook e-reader to enjoy the experience on your existing smartphone. And considering that the average Android smartphone will boast a display larger than your face within 2 years (if current trends continue, anyway), we'd say we could be onto something good here. At any rate, B&N's own eBookstore app is now available for Google's dear mobile OS, landing just weeks after Amazon pushed its Kindle app out into the same marketplace. Of course, B&N's not shying away from the competition, dubbing its app "the only Android e-reader application to offer eBook lending." It's available to download now on devices rocking Android 1.6 or above, and yes, even Android users can pick up on another platform where you leave off on your phone. Fancy.

Continue reading Nook for Android now available to download, offers eBook lending

Nook for Android now available to download, offers eBook lending originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 22 Jul 2010 11:11:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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What kind of fishing do you do? net, pole, or pod? do my fishing analogies for advertising work for u? - http://bit.ly/cC5sRY

Navigate The 3D Globe of News [Ipad]

Source: http://gizmodo.com/5593410/navigate-the-3d-globe-of-news

Navigate The 3D Globe of News TV network ABC has released a custom ABC News iPad app that's interesting for two reasons—its clever use of HTML5 and the amazing rotating Globe of News.

Oh no, news isn't just listed in a list like some boring old RSS reader here, instead your lead stories are warped around a navigation globe, giving today's attention-lacking users a nice, easy, visual way of finding the very latest in Lindsay Lohan developments. [ABC News for iPad via PaidContent]

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