Titan supercomputer to be loaded with 'world's fastest' storage system

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2013/04/16/titan-supercomputer-to-be-loaded-with-worlds-fastest-storage-system/

If you figured Titan's title of the world's most powerful supercomputer would give the folks at Oakridge National Laboratory reason to rest on their laurels, you'd be mistaken. The computer is set to have its fleet of 18,688 NVIDIA K20 GPUs and equal number of AMD Opteron processors paired with what's said to be the planet's speediest storage system, making its file setup six times faster and giving it three times more capacity. Dubbed Spider II, the new hardware will endow the number cruncher with a peak performance of 1.4 terabytes a second and 40 petabytes of storage spread across 20,000 disk drives. Behind the refresh are 36 of Datadirect Networks' SFA12K-40 systems, which each pack 1.12PB of capacity. For more on the herculean rig's upgrade, hit the jump for the press release.

Filed under: Misc, Storage, Science

Comments

Read More...

Summary only...

BitTorrent Surf plugin launches in beta on both Chrome and Firefox

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2013/04/16/bittorrent-surf-plugin-beta/

After four months in the alpha incubator, BitTorrent has released its Surf file-sharing plugin in beta not just for Chrome, its initial browser, but for Firefox as well. In an effort to make downloading and discovery easier, the new plugin has a status window for monitoring file progress plus a recommendation engine that'll offer suggestions based on search terms. BitTorrent claims the results "prioritize legitimate content" and will "help creators and fans connect." With ventures like SoShare, Sync and live-streaming in the works, this is yet another sign that a brand (arguably) once synonymous with illicit activities is at least trying to go legit.

Filed under: Internet

Comments

Source: BitTorrent (1), (2)

Read More...

Summary only...

Thanks to HTML5, Streaming Movies on Netflix Might Suck Less

Source: http://gizmodo.com/5994732/streaming-movies-on-netflix-might-suck-less-soon-thanks-to-html5

Netflix currently uses Microsoft's Silverlight plugin to run its streams. It's an inelegant solution that sometimes makes for subpar and bogged down streaming experiences. But Silverlight is possibly dying! And Netflix wants to get better! So Netflix is planning to move on from streaming on Silverlight and move towards HTML5 video. When that happens, streaming movies on Netflix might suck less.

Netflix detailed its goals to move away from Silverlight because of the limitations of browser plugins in general: Users have to install a plugin, users may be wary of security and privacy risks that come with plugins and probably most importantly for Netflix, not many mobile browsers support plugins. The future for browser plugins such as Silverlight is not bright. Enter HTML5.

Netflix has been trying to make HTML5 ready for "premium video playback" (which basically means putting all those DRM chains on its movies) by working on three W3C initiatives: streaming media through JavaScript, slapping DRM on its streams and maintaing the security of its streams. Two of those extensions are already working on ChromeOS (WebCrypto—the security one is not, Netflix is using a plugin for that right now). Eventually HTML5 Netflix streaming will trickle down to everybody else. Or that's the idea, at least. [Netflix via The Verge]

Read More...

Summary only...

Comcast to encrypt basic cable channels, require set-top box for all content

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2013/04/15/comcast-encrypt-basic-cable/

Well, this is quite a blow to basic cable viewers. Up until recently, Comcast has allowed subscribers to access certain channels without adding a set-top box for every TV -- instead, you'd simply connect your TV directly via coax (how quaint!). Now, certain customers have received word that their free ride will soon be coming to an end. The media giant will begin is expanding the area where it encrypts basic cable channels, requiring a single STB for each and every television that you plan to use. A Comcast Q&A document only addresses home users, so it's unclear whether enterprise subscribers would also be affected -- though that wouldn't be out of the question.

We think the move could mean a more complicated (and pricey) installation at hospitals, university dorms and even neighborhood gyms, where TVs installed in cardio equipment often plug directly into wall jacks, not to mention the inconvenience you'll be facing at home. This latest setback, of course, follows an FCC decision to allow companies to encrypt their basic cable channels -- the authorization was reportedly granted to cut back on service theft, among other concerns. Comcast will be issuing up to two adapters to each subscriber at no charge for up to two years, assuming you request your equipment within four months of the date of encryption. That's the good news, but encrypted content is quite a bummer, nonetheless.

Update : Comcast has already implemented encryption in certain areas -- this latest move simply represents a wider rollout. Additionally, Comcast-issued set-top boxes are not required when a CableCard solution is in use. Boxee TV owners can receive a new E-DTA that turns Comcast's encrypted cable channels into IP streams, as specified in an earlier agreement.

Filed under: Home Entertainment, HD

Comments

Via: GigaOM

Source: Comcast

Read More...

Summary only...

Galaxy S 4 pre-orders live in Canada today, $199 on a three-year commitment

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2013/04/15/galaxy-s-4-pre-orders-live-in-canada-today/

Samsung's next Galaxy flagship is seeking a new home in the land of hockey, maple syrup and politesse. Starting today, Canadian subscribers on Telus, Rogers or Bell will be able to pre-order the 16GB Galaxy S 4 for $199 on a three-year plan. Shipments of the TouchWiz-laden überphone are slated to begin later this month on the 27th, with Telus committing to an in-store date of May 3rd. Of course, you needn't sign away such a significant chunk of your wireless life for subsidized GS4 privileges -- the handset can be had outright for $700 CAD. Whether you go all in or opt for the monthly payment package, you'll at least have your pick of carrier poison.

Filed under: Cellphones, Wireless, Mobile, Samsung

Comments

Source: Rogers

Read More...

Summary only...

Seiki officially prices its 50-inch 4K TV at $1,500 with a late April launch

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2013/04/15/seiki-offcially-prices-its-50-inch-4k-tv-at-1500-for-late-april/

When Seiki's 4K TV set popped up on retail listings with a price that's just a fraction of what we've seen from its more expensive rivals, we were almost convinced it was a site glitch -- that couldn't be real, could it? The company would like to reassure us that it's quite serious. The 50-inch Ultra HD set is officially shipping to the US later in April, and it will still carry that regular $1,500 price tag when sales expand from TigerDirect (which claims to have stock today) to include Amazon and QVC, among others. We'd remain cautious about leaping in when Seiki is trying to skip a year or three of the usual commoditization process, but those who insist on their 4K bragging rights won't have long to wait before they can start boasting.

Filed under: Home Entertainment, HD, Amazon

Comments

Source: Seiki, TigerDirect

Read More...

Summary only...

13-inch ASUS Taichi 31 with dual 1080p displays finally shipping after long delay

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2013/04/15/asus-taichi-31-availability/

If you saw our review of the 11.6-inch Taichi 21, you'll know that its unusual dual-screen design had a pretty bad impact on battery life. ASUS is taking another crack at the whip, however, this time with the 13.3-inch Taichi that is finally shipping after a major hold-up in the US and promises a big boost to stamina -- a max of seven hours of use rather than five. If this claim stands up to scrutiny, the Ultrabook's other advantages should come back into play: namely the presence of pen or multi-touch input on the outer screen, excellent viewing angles and speakers, and a range of configurations based on either a Core i5 or i7 with SSD storage. We have no idea how pricing will compare to the $1,300 base of the 11-incher and the Taichi 31 hasn't appeared at any major retailers yet -- i.e., it still isn't quite as "available" as ASUS claims -- but we'll bring you an update when that changes.

Filed under: Laptops, Tablets

Comments

Via: TechPowerUp

Source: ASUS< /p>

Read More...

Summary only...

ASUS Qube to launch on April 23rd, says GTV Source, will cost $129

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2013/04/11/asus-qube-april-23rd-launch/

Remember that Google TV device ASUS brought out at CES? It could be available later this month. When the ASUS Qube's March 2013 release window passed without fanfare, the folks at GTV Source took note and did some probing -- eventually uncovering an April 23rd launch date. ASUS hasn't made a statement regarding pricing or availability, but the site says the release date and a $129 sticker price were confirmed by the manufacturer. When the streaming box does get here, it'll feature its own shape-themed UI, controllable by either the Qube's own remote, or via any Android device running a companion app. We'll let you know when ASUS makes things official. In the meantime, feel free to check our hands-on to see if it's hip to be square.

Filed under: Home Entertainment, HD, ASUS

Comments

Source: GTV Source

Read More...

Summary only...

Creative T3150 delivers stealthy, 2.1-channel Bluetooth audio on the cheap

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2013/04/11/creative-t3150-delivers-stealthy-2-1-channel-bluetooth-audio/

Bluetooth speakers still tend to revolve around portable designs, but there's been a gradual shift toward traditional-looking speakers that just happen to have short-range wireless as an option. Creative's T3150 is proof positive: while it's an entry-level, 2.1-channel PC speaker on the outside, it stuffs in stereo Bluetooth audio to handle mobile devices in a pinch. Mind you, that's not the only thing Creative is stealthy about. Although the company is willing to say that the T3150 has an Image Focusing Plate to widen the listening sweet spot, there's no mention of the power output; we've reached out for more detail. At prices of £60 and €70 (around $100) for the planned May launch, though, we'd expect a modest amount of wireless audio power.

Filed under: Peripherals, Portable Audio/Video

Comments

Source: Creative

Read More...

Summary only...

Samsung Series 9 Premium with Intel Core i7 and 1080p display available now for $1,400

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2013/04/11/samsung-series-9-premium-with-1080p-display-available-now/

Last month, Samsung outed an update to the 13-inch Series 9 that saw its 1,600 x 900 LCD display replaced with the glory of full 1080p. And starting today, that Windows 8 Ultrabook is going on sale with pretty much the same internal configuration it had in a previous, less Premium life -- save for the 2GHz Core i7 inside. For a cool $1,400, you're looking at 4GB of RAM, an integrated Intel HD Graphics 4000 GPU, WiFi a/b/g/n and a 128GB SSD all neatly packed into an aluminum unibody design. So, you can do your eyes a favor (and your wallet some significant damage) by trading up now. Or stick with what you've got. Don't worry, if they don't ask, you don't have to tell Intel.

Filed under: Laptops, Samsung

Comments

Read More...

Summary only...

Samsung NX1100 ILC now shipping for $600 with bundled Lightroom 4

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2013/04/11/samsung-nx1100-bundled-lightroom/

Samsung's quietly introduced replacement for the NX1000, the NX1100, just hit stores today with a $600 price tag. The camera, which sports a 20.3-megapixel CMOS sensor, 921k-dot, 3-inch LCD, 8 fps RAW and JPEG shooting, a top sensitivity of ISO 12,800, 1080p video capture, built-in WiFi and an Android and iOS companion app, comes bundled with a copy of Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 4, which typically carries a sticker price of around $125. You also get a 20-50mm f/3.5-5.6 lens and an external flash in the box, making this quite an appealing offer for beginners looking to step up from a point-and-shoot.

Filed under: Cameras, Samsung

Comments

Read More...

Summary only...

More US Customers Are Returning The New BlackBerry Phone Than Keeping It, Analyst Report Says

Source: http://www.businessinsider.com/more-people-are-returning-blackberry-z10-2013-4

BlackBerry's stock is tanking this morning following a report from ITG Investment research that says sales of the company's new BlackBerry Z10 phone are weak in the US.

In many cases, ITG says more people are returning the Z10 than keeping it and overall demand for the phone in the US is very weak.

The Z10 launched in late March on Sprint, T-Mobile, and AT&T, but early reports say those carriers haven't done a great job at promoting the phone. AT&T was the first carrier to sell the phone and many stores didn't even have demo units on display on launch day.

BlackBerry's stock is down 5.4% as of this writing, trading at $13.89 per share.

Please follow SAI on Twitter and Facebook.

Join the conversation about this story »

Read More...

Summary only...

Status Board: Get Control Over More Information Than You Know What to Do With

Source: http://gizmodo.com/5994326/status-board-get-more-control-over-information-than-you-know-what-to-do-with

Information-hungry iPad users are in luck with Panic's newest release: Status Board, a customized, at-a-glance display of more tidbits than you could possibly consume.

While the $10 price tag might seem steep, you're immediately treated to a friendly, soothingly-soundtracked setup assistant who guides you through the entire process of picking and choosing your knowledge-to-be. You can still adjust after the fact though, adding things like email, weather, reminders, news feeds, Twitter—anything, really. The app is your oyster.

And you can even use whatever personal data you have handy to throw into a widget. So if you happen to own a business (which is where it seems they're really going with this feature) you can use it to display all sorts of fun stats (company earnings, major goals, which employees are closest to getting fired to incite healthy competition—whatever you want!) and on an even bigger screen for all to see.

So while this probably isn't going to be useful for the more casual consumer, those who do need it (and you most likely know who you are) will highly benefit. You can get it at the iTunes store here.

Read More...

Summary only...

Beamz teams up with Virtual DJ on interactive music system, we go lasers-on (video)

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2013/04/10/beamz-teams-up-with-virtual-dj/

Beamz has been firing lasers in the name of limb-flailing performance for a few years. Today, it's announced it's working with popular music-mixing software Virtual DJ to provide the aural filling in its laser sandwich. The controller is the same four-beamed multi-button affair we've seen before, but now with a custom version of the aforementioned DJ application to call its own, and make the set-up a cinch. On screen you'll see two representations of the Beamz controller (instead of decks) with instant visual feedback to let you know which beam is mapped to what. You can configure four different triggers at one time, controlling cue points, looping and so on. To add functionality, you can then use the large buttons at the base of the device to rotate through different mappings. The emphasis, of course, is on performance here with nary a rotary nor fader in sight (we imagine you'd be using your other controller for that, right?). The software and hardware combo are being bundled together as a deal, and if you want in, you can do so right away for $200. Not sure if it'll fit in your workflow? Perhaps head past the break, and see if that video doesn't change your mind.

Filed under: Misc, Peripherals

Comments

Read More...

Summary only...

LG Optimus G Pro update features detailed in a walkthrough video (update: arrives April 12th)

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2013/04/10/lg-optimus-g-pro-value-pack-video-preview/

While the biggest question concerning LG's 5.5-inch Optimus G Pro -- when will it ship in the US -- remains officially TBA, the company has posted a video preview (embedded after the break) of the software update it's sending Korean early adopters this month. There's also no launch date for the "Value Pack" upgrade listed, but the video does give a clear demonstration of things like Smart Video that recognizes when the viewer looks away using eye tracking technology, Dual Camera using the front and back cameras at the same time for stills (it previously did this for video), and Pause & Resume recording that brings Vine-style seamless video cuts. Check out the video to experience it for yourself, we'll see if LG's phablet can beat the Galaxy S4 -- and, presumably, the next Galaxy Note -- to market in the US with these features.

Update: We've got the English press release now, which details all the new features mentioned above plus a few more that are getting upgraded, and reveals the update will start going out to users on April 12th. Check out the full text after the break.

Filed under: Cellphones, Mobile, LG

Comments

Source: LGMobileHQ (YouTube), LG Newsroom Korea

Read More...

Summary only...