Category Archives: News

Applications, Media Players, News, Operating Systems, Phones

iPhone Firmware 2.1 Announced, Will Fight The Bugs And The Crashes

Apple is desperately looking for new solutions to fix those pesky iphone/ipod touch bugs, crashes, call drops and bad reception, announcing new firmware update, to be available on Friday for a free download (regretfully, ipod touch owners will have to pay $10 for it). Also, the coming 2.1 version will apparantly improve battery life and backup synchronization, but won’t tackle with the copy & paste problem – hopefully it will – one day.

Update1: You can download it RIGHT NOW from here.

Update2: iPod Touch owners with firmware version 2.0 are entitled to download the new update for free.

Slashgear

[Image courtesy: Slashgear]

Applications, Audio, Events, Music, News

iTunes 8 Goes Live With HD Shows, Genius Playlists And The Great Magnetosphere Visualizer

1 Comment

iTunes 8 officially goes live at Apple’s “Let Us Rock” event, introducing HD shows from ABC, NBC and Showtime, to run for $2.99 per episode (the rest priced at $1.99). In addition, the 8 version comes with the new “Genius” sidebar feature, which lets you automatically create playlists from songs in your music library that go great together. Meaning, iTunes has a smart music reccomendation tool that helps users to rediscover favorite songs in their existing music library and suggests related music on the iTunes Store they might want to add to their music collection (sort of Pandora like). Furthermore, you can visualy browse your iTunes’ music / video libraries, using your album or video cover art and enjoy some new stunning Magnetosphere visualizations, once you turn your favorite music on. Tunes 8 is now available for download via Apple’s website.

[Apple]

Audio, Media Players, News, Video

Microsoft To Launch a Blue 8GB Flash Zune, Together With Zune 3.0 Firmware Update

3 Comments

Following last week’s Zune 16GB and Zune 120GB appearance, turns out there’s another kid on the block, joining the forthcoming lineup, a blue 8GB flash Zune, to be released in September with a 320 x 240 LCD display, wireless sync capabilities, Zune to Zune wireless sharing, an FM tuner and other alternative flavors, including black or silver. The new Zune supports wide variety of formats, like WMA, AAC, MP3, MPEG-4, WMV, H.264, or JPEG to play all your videos, music and images.

In addition, Microsoft will launch the Zune 3.0 platform, which includes some new features, such as Buy from FM, which lets you listen to your favorite FM radio stations and click to tag the songs you like for later purchase when you sync your device with your PC1. Zune Pass that lets you download millions of tracks, whole albums or playlists with Zune Pass subscription service. Device to Cloud that allows you to access thousands of wireless hotspots around the country to automatically update your collection, browse Zune Marketplace, refresh Channels, exchange favorites with friends, or buy songs you’ve tagged from your FM radio. Channels are custom programming stations that deliver personalized playlists to your Zune from a variety of sources you select, such as music experts, celebrities, or top radio stations. Games Zune Players now come with a selection of fun free games to choose from. Play and challenge yourself with Hexic, and make sure you play your favorite song from your collection to create your own personal game soundtrack. Video/TV Shows you can choose from a growing selection of TV shows now available on the Zune Marketplace video store. Recorded TV shows or movies from Windows Media Center in Windows Vista can be imported and synced to your Zune.

The 8GB flash-based model will be available for $149.99 and we look forward to play with the new models.

Update1: Redmond has confirmed the new lineup, to be scheduled for September 16th. Prices, as expected, stand at $250 for the 120GB Zune, $199 for the 16GB flash version and $149 for the latest 8GB model. Mind you, the new Zune 3.0 software supports all Zune players, so if you hold in your pockets older devices, you’re covered. Hit the jump to see the video from CNET News, hosting Joe Belfiore from Microsoft.

Update2: As promised, Microsoft has launched Zune 3.0 update, now available to download from here. Mind you it’s one hefty file, sized 165MB(!).

[via Zunerama]

Continue reading Microsoft To Launch a Blue 8GB Flash Zune, Together With Zune 3.0 Firmware Update →

Computers, News

Dell's Inspiron Mini 9 Netbook Officially Goes Live

As promised, the new Dell Inspiron Mini 9 makes an official debut right on time, with a $349 starting price, for basic Ubunutu specs, which climbs up to $449 for the XP Edition version, or dramatically drops down to an imperceptible $99 bargain if you buy a Studio 15, XPS M1530 or XPS M1330 machine from Dell, until 6AM September 9th (neat). Although there’s a minor change with the brand’s name, switching from the rumored “Dell Mini Inspiron 910” into the official Dell Inspiron Mini 9, the rest of the details pretty much stay the same, with an Intel Atom 1.6GHz N270 processor, an 8.9-inch WSVGA TL screen (1024 x 600), 3-in-1 card reader, 512MB/1024MB DDR2 internal memory, three USB2.0 ports, RJ-45 Ethernet connection, VGA output, a 1.3M built-in webcam, 802.11g Wi-Fi/Bluetooth 2.1 connectivity and a flash SSD drive with storage capacities, ranged from 4GB up to 8GB (at the moment). Shipping is scheduled for September 16th in black or white flavors. Meanwhile, checkout the official announcement and the video from Dell, after the break.

[Dell]

Continue reading Dell's Inspiron Mini 9 Netbook Officially Goes Live →

Audio, Media Players, News, Video

Presumed New iPod Nano and iPod Touch Dimensions Slings Out

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With Apple, it’s all about enigma, spiced with some mystery and tidbits that show up in the wild from time to time, make you wondering if it’s fake or real, specially when unofficial images emerge to the cybernetic medium, introducing new ipod Nano and ipod Touch players with a refreshing design and mint dimensions.

This time, these are the guys from iLounge who break the news with sketchy pictures of the presumable future devices, that will probably make it official at the Apple event on Thursday the 9th this month. From those pictures, we learn that Apple plans to release a 4th generation iPod nano and a 2nd generation iPod touch, while the new Nano measures at 90.75mm x 38.75mm x 6.08mm (compared to 90mm x 40mm x 6.5mm 2nd Gen nano), and the new iPod touch looks like the iPhone 3G, with a curved back and tapered edges, sized at 111mm x 61.8mm x 8.4mm (against 110mm x 61.8mm x 8mm at the first ipod touch version) with the same headphone jack and dock ports. Mind you, these are unofficial images, so you’d better hold your breath for the real thing next week.

[via iLounge]

Continue reading Presumed New iPod Nano and iPod Touch Dimensions Slings Out →

Computers, News

Asus Rolls Out The New High-End N10 Netbook

Following the great Eee PC success and the dominance within the netbooks market,  Asus keeps going forward, introducing a new lavish netbook, sans the Eee brand logo that has characterized their lineup. The new N10 was designed for the higher-end market, introducing a 10.2-inch LED backlight display (1024 x 768) and an Intel Atom-based N270 processor, together with a strong GeForce 9300GS graphics card. In addition, it packs Windows Vista Business, Altec Lansing speakers, a 250GB hard drive, a fingerprint reader and even an HDMI output, all for estimated prices, ranged from $450 up to $600. Korean launch is scheduled to mid-end September, so stay tuned for more to come.

Update: turns out Asus will offer 3 configurable netbooks, including the N10E-A1 that will have the basic specs without the HDMI connection, Nvidia 9300GS graphics, fingerprint reader, wireless connector N or Bluetooth. Instead, it will pack Windows XP, together with Intel Atom CPU, 10.2-inch display, a 160GB hard drive, 1GB RAM, 6-cell battery, 1.3M webcam and wireless 802.11 B/G connectivity, all for $649. N10J-A1that will house Windows Vista Premium, together with Intel Atom CPU, 10.2-inch display, a 160GB hard drive, 2GB RAM, Nvidia 9300GS graphics card, Bluetooth/WiFi 802.11B/G/N connectivity, 6-cell battery, 1.3M webcam and HDMI connector, all for $749. N10J-A2 that will sport the same specs as the N10J-A1model, only with a 250GB hard drive, all for $849.

[via Aving]

Computers, News

Msi To Introduce The New 8.9" Wind U90 Netbook

Truth to tell, the new 8.9-inch ( 1,024 x 600) netbook version, first showed up back in June at the Computex show, but after having an enormous success with the 10-inch U100 model, Msi has finally decided to officially release the Wind U90, to be shipped with an Intel Atom N270 processor, 512MB or 1GB of RAM and 80GB storage capacity. In addition, the U90 will have a windows XP system, a built-in 1.3M camera, a microphone, 802.11b/g WiFi, Bluetooth connectivity, 2 channels stereo speakers, VGA output and 3-cell battery (6-cell battery is optional). Still, no word on price or availability, but be sure this 2.2 lbs lappy will be here very soon.

Update1: turns out MSI has included the SUSE Linux OS within the new model, which will be available at the end of September for 339 Euro. The rest of the specs remain the same, including the keyboard size.

Update2: It seems like MSI is ready to deliver the Wind netbooks with a 6-cell battery onboard, offering longer battery life, for merely $550.

Update3: checkout the unboxing video after the break.

[MSI]

Continue reading Msi To Introduce The New 8.9" Wind U90 Netbook →

Audio, Media Players, News

Zune 16GB and 120GB Pop Up In The Wild

Assuming those images are real, and we do get a confirmation from B&H they are, then Microsoft is about to launch two fresh Zune models, including a 16GB flash player and a 120GB HDD-based version, already available for pre-order for $249.95. Still, no info when exactly these new players will hit the stores but i guess it’s just a matter of month or so. Stay tuned for more to come.

[via zunited]

Computers, IFA, News

IFA 2008: LG X110 Netbook Shows Up With Built-In 3G HSPDA Capabilities

LG has decided to jump into the netbooks trend, introducing the X110 UMPC at the IFA 2008 in Berlin, coming up with almost an identical MSI Wind design, but also with some pretty neat features, including built-in 3G HSPDA and GPS capabilities (optional) that can make our internet life much easier when it comes to out-of-wifi places. In addition, the new X110 packs a 1.6GHz Intel Atom processor, 8.9-inch display (1024×600), 120GB storage capacity (optional 6GB SSD), WLAN 802.11 b/g, 1GB of RAM and more. It runs Windows XP operating system and expected to be released in Europe at the end of September for €399 up to €499 ($590 up to $740), not so cheap prices, compared to the competitors, but with a top-notch technology.

[via jkkmobile]

Audio, IFA, Media Players, News, Video

IFA 2008: Samsung To Introduce The New YP-Q1 PMP

4 Comments

It’s not official yet, but word on the street says that Samsung is about to announce their latest YP-Q1 media player at the IFA 2008 in Berlin. The new YP-Q1 is expected to have a 2.4-inch QVGA screen, together with a microphone, an FM RDS tuner, 4GB/8GB or 16GB capacities to choose from, and USB2.0 connectivity. It will support wide formats range, including MP3, WMA, WAV, Ogg, FLAC, MPEG4 or WMV and suppose to deliver 30 hours of audio or 4 hours of video. No word on price or availability, but Samsung will offer the Q1 black, white, silver or pink flavors. Stay tuned for more to come.

Update: Samsung has officially confirmed the new YP-Q1player, to go live in October, together with the YP-U4 version that is already available. Checkout the video after the break.

[via gmp3]

Continue reading IFA 2008: Samsung To Introduce The New YP-Q1 PMP →

Audio, IFA, Media Players, News, Video

Cowon Unveils The New O2 Touchscreen PMP

Korean company Cowon has just introduced some of its latest products, to be officially released next week, during IFA 2008 at Berlin. Together with the sexy curved S9, we find the O2, a 4.3-inch touchscreen (480 x 272) PMP, coming up with a T-DMB tuner, a microphone, a loud built-in speaker, an SD slot, a TV output and storage capacities, range from 8GB up to 32GB. The O2 supports wide variety of formats, including MP3, WMA, AC3, AAC, FLAC, OGG, Apple Lossless, WAV, G.726, PCM, True Audio, Monkey Audio, MusePack, DivX, XviD, WMV, H.264, M-JPEG, MPEG-4 SP / ASP, and MPEG1. The battery can play 18 hours of audio and up to 8 hours of video, which is very impressive in terms of media players. Still no word on price or availability, but you will be able to get one of those in black, white or pink flavors.

Update1: The O2 is set to be released around October.

Update2: Cowon has announced O2 European pricing as follows:

  • O2 iAudio 8GB White – €289.99 ($400)
  • O2 iAudio 8GB Pink – €289.99 ($400)
  • O2 iAudio 16GB White – €309.99 ($428)
  • O2 iAudio 16GB Black – €309.99 ($428)
  • O2 iAudio 32GB White – €365.99 ($505)

[Cowon]

Continue reading Cowon Unveils The New O2 Touchscreen PMP →

Accessories, Games, News

Sony To Introduce a Wireless Keypad Attachment For Your PS3 Game Controller

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How many times have you encountered with difficulties to write on your PS3 game console through the lame virtual keyboard UI and the retard SIXAXIS controller? Well, guess what, hot news are coming from the Leipzig Games Convention, as Sony unveils a wireless keypad attachment, that hooks onto your SIXAXIS/DIALSHOCK3 game pad and lets you use the built-in keypad comfortably, whenever you need it. Mind you, the unit is compatible with other Bluetooth enabled devices, such as mobile phones and other gadgets. Still no word on price but we do know it will go live around November 2008, in 8 different assimilated languages.

Update: you can now pre-order it at Amazon for $49.99. Regretfully, you will have to wait until November for shipping.

[via joystiq]

Continue reading Sony To Introduce a Wireless Keypad Attachment For Your PS3 Game Controller →

Games, News

Sony PSP 3000 Officially Goes Live In Europe On October 15th

Some internet rumors become real, some don’t. This one is now official, as Sony has announced the new PSP-3000, at the Leipzig Games Convention, to be released on October 15th across Europe, with the same PSP-2000 design, but  with a better “Outside Friendly” screen visibility, a built-in microphone for your Skype experience and a new ‘PS’ button, to be defined later-on. Price is set for €199 ($291) and we tune in for more details to come.

Update: October 14th – it is now available across North America for $199.99.

[via slashgear]

Audio, Internet, Media Players, Mobile, Music, News, Video

Archos To Introduce "Internet Media Tablets" Lineup, Including 5, 7 & 5G PMP Models

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Archos has officially unveiled their 6th generation PMPs lineup, known as “Internet Media Tablets”, including Archos 5, Archos 7 and Archos 5G models, to make a debut across the world from September 2008. The 6th Gen comes with new clean sleeky design, as Archos decides to dump the side tactile buttons from the 5th Gen and focus on bigger touchscreen and slim look.

Archos 5 & Archos 7

are equipped with a strong bullet ARM Cortex processor, storage capacities, starting from 60GB up to 320GB, three on top buttons, including power and Volum +/-, high-resolution 800 x 480 touchscreen, as the Archos 5 comes with a 4.8-inch display and the Archos 7 packs a 7-inch screen. In addition, both models feature Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g connection, 3.5mm mini jack for headphones, free Opera web browser, built-in speaker, HD video support and DVR station dock/DVR snap-on accessory (optional) to record your favorite TV shows or play 5.1 audio via your stereo Hi-Fi. Mind you, the new DVR station houses an HDMI output to display high-definition 720P video content.

Archos 5G

One of the most interesting devices from the new series, packs 30GB storage capacity, together with 3.5 HSPDA 3G cellular modem that lets you surf the internet wherever you want, without the need to be around a Wi-Fi hotspot. It comes with the same 4.8-inch high-resolution touchscreen (800 x 480) and same video/audio capabilities, supporting MP3, WMA, WMA Pro 5.1, WAV (PCM / ADPCM) for audio, MPEG-4 (ASP @ L5 AVI), WMV, M-JPEG (Motion JPEG video) QVGA resolution, for video and JPEG, BMP, PNG, GIF, PDF, SRT for the rest.

Estimated shipping dates & prices

Archos 5 – September: 60GB – $350, 120GB – $400, 250GB – $450
Archos 7 – October: 160GB – $450, 320GB – $550
Archos 5G – December: 30GB – $550

The Archos 5g, could be subsidized by carriers.

Checkout the initial video and full specs after the break.

Update: early than expected, the Archos 5 & 7 “internet media tablets” go live on Amazon with a wide range of accessories, including DVR Station ($99), a DVR Snap-On ($80), a Mini Dock ($30), a Battery Dock ($50), a Helmet Camcorder ($130), and more.

[via Archos]

Continue reading Archos To Introduce "Internet Media Tablets" Lineup, Including 5, 7 & 5G PMP Models →

Communication, Internet, Media Players, Mobile, Music, News

Lenovo IdeaPad U8 MID Goes Live at The Olympics

The new Lenovo IdeaPad U8 MID makes a debut right on time, as the Beijing Olympic games take place these days and new world records are getting smashed. Official specs include a 4.8-inch touchscreen, Intel Atom Z500 800MHz processor, GPS navigation system, front/rear cameras, 802.11 b/g WiFi, Bluetooth, EDGE, 3G and even Wimax support (wow!). In addition it has 1GB of RAM, 6GB flash storage and a place for a dongle, to receive China Multimedia Mobile Broadcasting signals, in order to watch the Olympics for free, if you happened to be in China, all for the size of 21 x 173 x 84mm and 350 grams. No word on price, but you should expect a smartphone costing, so start saving.

Update: Price is set to be around $730 (4,999 yuan) which is not that cheap, considering you can get a laptop, but sometimes you have to pay for light portability.

[Via Pocketables]

Computers, News

Dell Mini Inspiron 910 Gets More Details, Has Intel Atom Processor And SSD Drive

2 Comments

The rumored Dell Mini Inspiron (AKA: Inspiron 910) gets more details, as the guys at Gizmodo have managed to put their hands on the web documentation, including specs, pricing and some new images. As reported, the new Inspiron 910 features an 8.9-inch WSVGA TL screen (1024 x 600), 3-in-1 card reader, 512MB/1024MB DDR2 internal memory, three USB2.0 ports, RJ-45 Ethernet connection, VGA output, a 1.3M built-in webcam and more. Today, we can be certain it is equipped with an Intel Atom-based 1.6GHz N270 processor with 945GME chipset and runs either Windows XP Home or Ubuntu Linux OS. In addition, we learn it has a flash SSD drive with storage capacities, ranged from 4GB up to 16GB. Release date is expected to August 22nd with a competitive $299 starting price. Stay tuned, we definitely look forward to see this one in action.

Update: The Wall Street Journal reports that the Dell Inspiron 910 Mini netbook is set to to be released on Thursday the 4th for less than $400.

[via Gizmodo]

Computers, News

Fujitsu LifeBook U2010 Officially Goes Live In Asia

Now it’s official. Fujitsu LifeBook U2010 has been released in Asia with a  5.6-inch WXGA display and a 1.6GHz Intel Atom processor. The new convertible UMPC is equipped with 4-cell extended battery (7.2V, 5800mAh), provides up to 8 hours of continuous work, and 60GB HDD capacity or an optional 64GB SSD storage. In addition, the minuscule laptop has a built-in fingerprint reader, a digital microphone and a 1.3M camera to conduct video conference calls via Skype. You can choose out of 5 different colors, including Ocean Black, Pink Gold, Cool Silver, Fuschia Red, or Luminous Blue and play wireless music in your car, thanks to the FM transmitter inside. So far, no official word on prices, but we do hope to learn more as soon as the Fujitsu U820 version, which was recently approved by the FCC, will make its debut Stateside.

[Fujitsu via pocketables]

Computers, Internet, News, Phones

Aigo P8860 MID Goes Live In Asia

First time we had a chance to see this amazing Atom-based MID (Mobile Internet Device) was back at the CES show in January, as Intel introduced its latest Menlow system on the Aigo devices. Now we hear that this amazing Aigo P8860 MID is about to go live in Hong Kong with a 800MHz Atom Z500 processor, a 4.8-inch display, Bluetooth, Wifi, microSD slot expansion, 4GB SSD storage capacity, sliding QWERTY keyboard, GPS navigation system and HSPDA, running on MIDLinux system, also known as Midinux. Prices start at $5,228 HKD ($679) and a Windows XP version is expected later on. Stay tuned for more to come. Meanwhile, checkout the video after the break.

Update: September 29th – The Aigo P8860 makes a worldwide debut, via an official reseller, named Direct From Japan. Just log in and order your device from all over the world, for $699 (including free shipping).

[via Pocketables]

Continue reading Aigo P8860 MID Goes Live In Asia →

Computers, News

Asus Eee PC S101 High-End Mini Laptop Introduced In Taiwan

Asus wants to target the ultra portable high-end laptops market, unofficialy introduces the new EEE PC S101, coming up with a 10.2-inch 16:9 LED backlit display, Intel Atom-based 1.6GHz N270 processor with 945GME chipset and a coffee brown and white flavors. The S101, which suppose to get mass production around September, weights less than 1KG and features only 2.2cm thick measures. Apparently, it will offer 32GB SSD ($699) or 64GB SSD ($899) storage capacities, together with a shiny casing surface, carrying the Eee logo. Stay tuned for more to come.

[via umpcfever]

Computers, News

Lenovo To Release The New IdeaPad S10 Ultra-Mini Laptop

Another ultra-mini notebook joins the group, as Lenovo officially announces the release of the new IdeaPad S10, coming up Stateside in early October with a Windows XP operating system, Powered by Intel Atom processor, together with a 10-inch LED backlit display (1024 x 600). In addition, the new IdeaPad features an integrated multi-touch touchpad, a built-in 1.3M Camera, 4 in 1card Reader, Bluetooth, wireless 802.11 b/g connection and 3 cell / 6 cell battery, delivering 3 to 6 hours, respectively. Lenovo will be offering the S10 in different configurations, including a 512MB memory with 80GB storage capacity for $399 or a 1GB model with 160GB capacity for $450. You will be able to choose out of red black or white flavors and Lenovo promises to launch a 9-inch version with Linux OS aboard in other countries, later on. Meanwhile, checkout the quick video after the break.

[via businesswire]

Continue reading Lenovo To Release The New IdeaPad S10 Ultra-Mini Laptop →

Computers, News

Fujitsu Amilo Mini Unofficially Introduced

Yes, another UMPC notebook joins the “gang”, this time it’s Fujitsu with the new Amilo Mini, coming up later this year with an 8.9-inch display and revolutionary interchangeable colorful lids. Apparently, it will run Windows Xp (there’s a special Windows key on the keyboard) and embrace Intel Atom processor to live with the mighty competitors. Estimated price is believed to be around $470 to $630, depends on the configuration. Meanwhile, checkout the videos after the break.

[via slashgear]

Continue reading Fujitsu Amilo Mini Unofficially Introduced →

Applications, Media Players, Mobile, News, Operating Systems, Phones

iPhone 3G: Windows PC Jailbreak Goes Live

Windows OS users, this is your day, as Pwnage 2.0 version for your PC (AKA: WinPwn 2.0) has been released, allowing iPhone 1st Gen, iPhone 3G and iPod Touch users to jailbreak their devices and unlock their sim cards if necessary. Although it was already available, for early adopters, only 24 hours after the official Dev-Team Mac release, this one is much easier, especially with the ability to make your jailbroken handset – Sim Free – in one click. Mind you, this is only a preliminary version and it might have some bugs, so stay cautious while updating your device.

You can download the software from here or here or here.

read the instructions after the break.

Update: There are new versions available in here.

[via WinPwn]

Continue reading iPhone 3G: Windows PC Jailbreak Goes Live →

Computers, News

Ripple Mini Chocolate PC Goes Live, Has Intel Atom Inside

Korean company Ripple has introduced the new Mini Chocolate, one of the first Atom-based PC desktops to make a debut these days with the Mini-ITX form factor and a 1.6GHz Atom processor. In addition, the new mini PC houses four USB ports, two SATA sockets, a single IDE socket, 10/1000 ethernet connection, a place for a slot-loading optical drive and up to 2GB of DDR2 RAM, which will be enough to run all of your basic home-office activities. It comes in 3 different colors, including black, red or silver and a $200 price tag. Unfortunately, there’s no word if or when it will hit Stateside, but i’m sure we are going to see plenty of those in the near future.

[via Aving]

Audio, Media Players, News, Video

Cowon P5 PMP Officially Introduced

Cowon has officially announced the release of the new P5 PMP, coming up at the end of July and suppose to replace the Q5W version. The new P5 features an impressive brushed metal body in 3 different flavors, including red, black and platinum. Like the previous version, it runs Windows CE 5.0 and offers 40GB, 60GB or 80GB capacities, at your choice. In addition it has an FM tuner, a microphone, a built-in speaker, strong Alchemy AU1250 700Mhz processor, Bluetooth 2.0, WiFi connection to surf the internet, TV output (Composite, S-Video, Component), a T-DMB tuner USB2.0 host and a 5-inch touchscreen, 16M colors (800×480). The player supports wide range of formats, like MP3, WMA, ASF, OGG, WAV, FLAC, APE, MPC, WV, AVI, ASF, WMV, MPG, DivX, XviD, MPEG4, WMV9, JPG, BMP, PNG, RAW, TXT, CXD, SMI, and SRT. Battery improves, comparing to previous model, as it can play 14 hours of music or 9 hours of video, where dimensions stand at 138.8 x 88.5 x 20 mm 380g. The new P5 is planned to make a debut in Korea on July 29th for an estimated price of $435. More pictures after the break.

[via Cowon]

Continue reading Cowon P5 PMP Officially Introduced →

Games, News

Playstation 3 80GB Core Pack Version Goes Live In September

2 Comments

Sony has officially announced a new 80GB PS3 package, to go live in September for $399 price tag. The new expected version has exactly the same 40GB features, including a Blu-ray player, HDMI output, an integrated Wi-Fi connection, and Cell Broadband Engine, but you also get double storage capacity for the same price. checkout the press release after the break.

Meanwhile, we hear that the PS Store video service goes life, offering movies and TV shows available for renting or buying.

Update1: It seems like Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Australia and New Zealand are going to get the new 80 gigs model on August 27th, with prices standing at €399 in Europe and £299 in the UK.

Update2: 19.8.08 – earlier than expected, the 80GB model arrives to Best Buy and unofficially available for purchasing. European retail launch suppose to be on Friday 22nd.

PS3-80GB-core-pack

[via feedmoo]

Continue reading Playstation 3 80GB Core Pack Version Goes Live In September →

Hardware, News, Phones

iPhone 3G Gets Unlocked With a Special Sim Card

4 Comments

Well, it’s not a software unlock, but it looks pretty much the same as the first generation unlock SIM card, as it misleads the handset to think it is actually using your local carrier. Still, no word on price or availability but there’s a video to prove it actually works. Stay tuned for more info to come.

[kml_flashembed movie="http://www.youtube.com/v/S1lQWH24hv4" width="425" height="350" wmode="transparent" /]

______________________________________

[via gizmodo]

Media Players, Mobile, News, Phones

iPhone 3G Officialy Goes Live Stateside And 21 Countries More

1 Comment

iphone-3G-whiteToday, After tons of rumors, speculations and some unsuccessful mockups, Apple is finally releasing the new iPhone second generation – known as the iPhone 3G, across 22 countries, on 8:00 AM local time. The new iPhone 2 will have a 3G HSDPA connection which will allow users to surf the web, download emails, get directions, and watch videos 2.4 x times faster than previous model and 36% faster than the Nokia N95 and Palm Treo 750 devices in pageloads (according to Apple).

The second biggest thing, other than moving to 3G network, is the built-in GPS navigation system that was added to the new iPhone 3G. GPS technology and iPhone software come together to bring users mobile phone mapping, enabling fast fix on your location, track your progress as you go, help you get from point A to point B, by using GPS-based iPhone maps and A-GPS technology, which assists getting the signals from GPS satellites, Wi-Fi hot spots, and cellular towers. Once you get the signal, a GPS blue indicator will turn on, so you will be able to start using the relevant applications. However, GPS on iPhone is active only when you need it. iPhone powers the GPS unit on and off quickly and automatically, so it won’t adversely affect the battery life. With the new technology, assimilated inside the handset, you will be able to get from the App store some cool applications that will let you take a photo with the camera, for example, and iPhone will geotag it with GPS location information. Another neat application is the Loopt, that will let you use location feeds to help you find friends on the go, within your range, wherever you are. Moreover, you will be able to receive live traffic information, indicating traffic speed along your route in easy-to-read green, red, and yellow highlights.

iphone-3G-black

As for look and specifications, the new iPhone 3G has a nice rounded sleeky design with a curved glossy back, coming in black or white flavors. It has the same good old 3.5-inch multi-touchscreen, identical 2 megapixel camera at the back (no front camera for video chats) and a flush 3.5mm headphone jack. Battery life presents substantial improvement, with 300 hours of standby, 5 hours of 3G talk, 8-10 hours of 2G talk, 7 hours of video and 24 hours of audio. Dimensions pretty much stay the same, although the new iPhone 3G is a little bit thicker, with 12.3 mm or 0.48 inches. However, we hear that it is hard to feel this extra inch difference and the sleeky arched design makes it much more comfortable in your hands.

You can find the complete keynote video here.

To learn more about the 22 countries to launch the new iPhone 3G and to see full specs and tips, just hit the jump and move forward, after the break.

Continue reading iPhone 3G Officialy Goes Live Stateside And 21 Countries More →

Audio, Events, Media Players, Mobile, News, Phones, Video

Apple WWDC 2008 Event: Keynote Summary

Originally written on June 9th:

apple-wwdc-2008Apple WWDC 2008 event in San Francisco has answered our expectations with some major announcements from Steve Jobs, including the new iPhone 3G revelation. The keynote has introduced us as follows:

  • New iPhone games for $9.99.
  • New iPhone mashups.
  • New MobileMe syncing service.
  • iPhone 2.0 firmware available in early July.
  • iPhone 3G officially goes live on July 11th for $199 (8GB) or $299 (16GB), with a built-in GPS.

Again, rumors prove to be right and today they just get the official stamp from Apple. Lets view some of them in a nutshell:

Continue reading Apple WWDC 2008 Event: Keynote Summary →

Audio, Media Players, News, Video

Creative Zen X-Fi Wifi Officially Introduced

2 Comments

reative has officially unveiled the new Zen X-Fi PMP, coming out in Singapore at first mid-July, offering 8GB, 16GB and 32GB versions for $149.99, $199.99, $279.99 respectively. In addition, the new Zen X-Fi boasts 802.11 b/g wifi connectivity with Yahoo and MSN built-in messaging clients, a 2.5-inch LCD screen (320 × 240), an FM tuner, SD/SDHC slot expansion, 9 EQ,  9-pad keys and a speaker onboard. It will host some PDA features, including a calendar and an alarm clock and will support WMV9, MPEG4-SP, DivX 4 / 5, XviD, MP3, WMA, AAC (. M4a), WAV (ADPCM), Audible 4, JPEG file formats. Battery will be able to play 5 hours of video or 36 hours of audio, as dimensions are 83 x 55 x 12.8 mm to 68.75 g. The bundle includes a pair of EP-830 earbuds, for maximum music quality, as you listen to your favorite melodies. Moreover, Creative plans to release various accessories for the new player, like wireless TravelSound docking speaker, Silicone / Leather cases, Armbands, and more.

But wait, there’s more, Creative will offer limited edition 8GB/16GB Red Cliff versions (pictured after the break) which will include pictures of the film cast and the movie trailer preloaded – all for the same prices.

Checkout the videos and the other pictures after the break. You can read a full review in here.

creative-zen-x-fi-2 [via slashgear]

Continue reading Creative Zen X-Fi Wifi Officially Introduced →

Computers, News

Acer Wants To Compete With The Eee PC: Officially Introduces The New Aspire One Mini Laptop

20 Comments

Originally written on June 5th:

After Asus, MSI, HP and Dell, there’s another player who wants to take part in the mini-laptop party, as Acer has introduced its new Aspire One notebook at Computex in Taipei. Nothing much to say, but we do know it will be equipped with a 1.6GHz Intel Atom processor, 8.9-inch LED-backlit display (1024 x 600), a built-in 1.3 MP camera, three USB 2.0, card reader slot, 802.11b/g and Ethernet connectivity. You will be able to choose between a Linux model with 8GB SSD storage capacity or a Windows XP model with 80GB hard drive. The Acer Aspire One will be available this month in white or blue flavors, for prices ranged from $400 (Linux version) up to $600 (XP version).

Update1: checkout the video (by Tech Digest) after the break.

Update2: Turns out there is a problem, once playing music at maximum level through the speakers. According to several reports, a guy who played U2’s “Hold Me, Thrill Me…” at full sound, caused a vibration of the speakers which completely trashed the hard drive. The problems occurs only in hard drive devices but skips out in case you have SSD drives.

Acer-Aspire-One [[via Acer]

Continue reading Acer Wants To Compete With The Eee PC: Officially Introduces The New Aspire One Mini Laptop →

News, Operating Systems

Microsoft Windows 7 Multi-Touch Demonstration

Microsoft has revealed a very nice demonstration, at the All Things Digital conference, showing some snippets of the next windows 7 OS (coming up in 2009) with amazing multi-touch capabilities that were shifted from the Microsoft Surface to a Dell Latitude XT tablet PC. The images undoubtedly prove that Microsoft wants to change the user interface experience by assimilating finger gestures that let you move, rotate or shrink images, navigate maps, play the piano and a lot more, with a simple touch of a finger. Checkout the video to see the future:

[kml_flashembed movie="http://www.youtube.com/v/eFFMW13q3zc" width="425" height="350" wmode="transparent" /]

[via windowsvistablog]

Mobile, News

Is This The New iPhone 3G?

8 Comments

I can’t be sure those images are real, but they sure look great, presenting the “so called” iphone 2. As you can see, the “new” 3G models come in 3 flavors, including white, black and reddish, something we’ve heard before. In addition, you can find the front built-in video cam, together with the rear one, implying for video conference capabilities. The only drawback is the “slim” slogan, which stands in contradiction to the latest rumors, pointing on a thicker device, due to GPS chipset add on. I guess I’ll have to wait couple more weeks to get an answer. Check the other images after the break.

Update: Apparently, this was not the iPhone 3G, just a good mockup. You can find the real iPhone 3G in here and here.

iphone-3G-1

Continue reading Is This The New iPhone 3G? →

Computers, News

Asus Eee PC 901 Gets a New Design And an Intel Atom Processor

As planned, Asus preps to release its own Atom-based Eee PC version and we get a chance to glance at the Eee 901, coming up in June, a month after the Eee 900 was launched in the US and days after the MSI Wind has emerged with the Atom processor. As you can see, it looks a tad different from the first models with the metal sides on the screen hinge, Asus logo is vanished, metal framing around the trackpad and some other buttons and outputs rearrangements.

Update: June 3rd is the date of release and the price is expected to be around $650 for the XP version.

asus-eee-pc-901-front

[via jkkmobile]

Continue reading Asus Eee PC 901 Gets a New Design And an Intel Atom Processor →

News, Phones

Philips Introduces The New Xenium X800 Touchscreen Phone

Philips jumps on Apple’s board with the new Xenium X800 touchscreen phone, housing a 2.9-inch 262k colors touchscreen (240 x 400), a 2MP camera, microSD slot, Bluetooth connectivity and more. The new X800 will also include a Windows Mobile 6 OS and battery that can last up to 8 hours of talk or 850 hours of standby time, which is very impressive. No word on price or availability but we hope Philips will be smart enough to add wifi connection and a built-in browser for internet usage.

philips-xenium-x800

[via slashgear]

Computers, News

MSI Wind Goes Live With Intel Atom Processor And 10" Screen

The competition is getting warmer, as MSI has officially released the MSI Wind specs, coming in 8.9-inch and 10-inch display versions, running XP or Linux operating systems. But the most alluring detail is the Intel-Atom-based processor, which set a new mini-laptops mark. Both models will be available on June 3rd with starting price of $399 up to $549. Click on the table, to clearly see the full specs. You can find more pictures in here. Checkout the video after the break:

Update: a 6-cell battery version will cost $50 more.

msi-wind-specs

[via gizmodo]

Continue reading MSI Wind Goes Live With Intel Atom Processor And 10" Screen →

Computers, News

Asus Eee PC 900 Goes Live Stateside

Asus-Eee900-US As planned, the Eee PC 900 goes live in the US right on time, coming in 2 versions: The first, running Windows XP with 12GB of storage (4GB Built-in + 8GB Flash based), priced at $600. The second, running Linux with 20GB of storage (4GB Built-in + 16GB Flash based), priced at $566. The rest pretty much stays the same, including 8.9-inch WSVGA display (1024×600), 1GB DDR2 RAM, 1.3 megapixel camera, MMC/SD/SDHC Card Reader, WLAN 802.11 B/G connectivity and more. Surprisingly, the prices are a bit higher than previous declarations but i guess early adopters always pay some extra cash. Both models are available in Buy.com and ZipZoomfly, so if you can’t hold your breath anymore, this is your time to get one.

[via engadget]

News, Phones

iPhone Is Officialy Heading To Asia And The Pacific

iphone-singtel Singapore telecoms company, SingTel announces a confirmed agreement to distribute the iPhone in Asia and some other pacific countries, together with 3 more associates. The company has plans to bring the handset and sell it “later this year” in Singapore, India (via Bharti Airtel), the Philippines (via Globe Telecom) and Australia (via Optus). No clue whether this would be 3G iphone devices or regular iphone handsets, but one thing is for sure, they will officially get something, sometime this year.

Update: Orange has officially announced that it has secured rights to release the iPhone in Switzerland, Austria, Belgium, Poland, Portugal, and Romania.

[via zdnet]

News, Phones

iPhone Firmware 2.0 Implies For 3G Capabilities

iPhone 3G rumors, keep floating around, as new firmware 2.0 image has just emerged, suggesting integrated 3G capabilities within the next update, coming out this June. Although it is a common feature, no one really knows if this beta release shot is real or fake, but as you can see the new firmware includes 3G radio control function, allowing users to turn it off, whenever they want to save some battery life, so i guess there is a tangible hope for an imminent release of the new iPhone 2.

iphone-3g-firmware

[via engadget]

Internet, Media Players, Music, News, Video

Zune 2.5 Update Goes Live With a New Video Store, TV Shows And Social Playlist Sharing

Zune 2.5 spring update goes live with some cool modish features, including a video store that houses 4,800 music videos and a wide vriety of TV shows (no movies yet), available to download for $2 each or 160 MS Points (from the libraries of NBC, Nickelodeon, Comedy Central and Cartoon Network). In addition, Microsoft has integrated the Zune Card sharing, which allows you to build a social network, present your dynamic friends’ list and automatically grab their recent playlist, albums and favorite artists, as long as you subscribe to Zune Pass (similar to last.fm). Furthermore, the new update integrates Windows Live Messenger “now playing” function, album review fields, to let you express your personal opinion on different albums and publish it to the world, Auto Playlists, meta data editing, easy syncing controls and finally, Gapless playback support. Needless to say, the new 2.5 Spring Update is free of charge and ready for your downloads. Check the video after the break.

zune-video-marketplace

[via engadget]

Continue reading Zune 2.5 Update Goes Live With a New Video Store, TV Shows And Social Playlist Sharing →

News, Phones

iPhone To Land In 10 More Countries

iphone-vodafone After making a huge impact in the US and plenty of noise in countries like Canada, United Kingdom, Germany, Switzerland and France, the iPhone is about to arrive to 10 more places, including Australia, the Czech Republic, Egypt, Greece, Italy, India, Portugal, New Zealand, South Africa and Turkey, as Vodafone has signed an exclusive agreement with Apple to distribute the most desired handset to its customers in the aforementioned countries, later this year – Lucky them.

[via gizmodo]

Internet, News

Microsoft-Yahoo Affair : End Of Story?

yahoo-microsoft Alright, so Microsoft has officially backed off from bidding on Yahoo, after a roller coaster of ups and downs, that started with an official offer to buy the company for $44.6 Billion, price that reflected $31 per share, back in February. The generous bid has never made any impression on Yahoo’s management, as the company’s directors has officially decided to turn off Microsoft’s hostile acquisition, claiming the bid is substantially lower than its real value, and whoever wants to buy them should hit $40 per share, meaning extra $9 to Steve Ballmer’s offer. Still, Microsoft clutched to its original bid (desperately trying to stay a major internet player in the growing online advertisement and searching markets) and considered an hostile takeover, by pursuing Yahoo share holders, but at the end of the day, after taking off their threatening suit, the Redmond’s were willing to raise the bid to $33, which was rejected by Yahoo as well and lead to today’s proposal withdraw announcement.

“Despite our best efforts, including raising our bid by roughly $5 billion, Yahoo! has not moved toward accepting our offer. After careful consideration, we believe the economics demanded by Yahoo! do not make sense for us, and it is in the best interests of Microsoft stockholders, employees and other stakeholders to withdraw our proposal,” said Ballmer.

Again, that wasn’t much of a squall to Sunnyvale, as Yahoo’s CEO, Jerry Yang, has apathetically responded:

…”With the distraction of Microsoft’s unsolicited proposal now behind us, we will be able to focus all of our energies on executing the most important transition in our history so that we can maximize our potential to the benefit of our shareholders, employees, partners and users.”

End of story? I’m not so sure, Temporary cease-fire? definitely yes.

[via Microsoft]

Media Players, News

Creative Might Face Huge Class-Action Payments Due To Hard-Drive Capacity Manipulations

If you purchased a Creative Labs MP3 player between May 5th 2001 and April 30th 2008 you might be privileged to a class-action settlement, concerning false quoted hard-drive capacity, allegedly made by Creative during this period of time. According to sources, the company has apparently deceived the customers by adding 7% more storage capacity to its media players, as real data proved different. Although Creative has never submitted an admission, it seems the company is urging for an agreement that will grant anyone who apply for the payout, to get either a 50% discount on a 1GB player or 20% off on any Creative product from their online store. Mind you, claim forms need to be submitted by August 7th, at the latest, so if you bought a player between those dates, it’s your chance to get a fair discount.

Update: Creative has lost. The company will be forced to offer the plaintiff 50% discount on a 1GB ZEN Stone mp3 player or 20% off on any Creative product from their online store.

creative-zen-32gb

[via anythingbutipod]

Applications, Media Players, News

Archos Announces The Release Of Web TV/Radio And TV Portation Plugins

Big day for Archos, as the company has launched its new GPS device for the Archos 605 player, coming with maps of 22 European countries and equipped with lots of road and traffic services. In addition, Archos has launched 2 revolutionary plugins for the 605 devices, the first is the WebTV & Radio which enables wide variety of TV channels and radio stations, live via WiFi connection on the internet, thanks to a team up with TV Tuner. This plugin is available to purchase from Archos website for $19.99. The second plugin is the TV Portation which enables Archos TV+ owners to stream TV shows, directly from the living room into the Archos 605 PMP, wherever they are, on the go, which turns the TV+ device into a streaming media server, similar to the Sling box. This plugin will be available to purchase from Archos website next month for $49.99, but if you have a registered TV+ device it will be available for free.

Update 1: It will also feature full support for Flash 9 and WMV9 formats, free of charge, at the next firmware update, coming up next month.

Update 2: Check out the plugins demo videos after the break.

archos-plugins

[via Archos]

Continue reading Archos Announces The Release Of Web TV/Radio And TV Portation Plugins →

Media Players, News

Archos 605 Gets GPS Navigation Capabilities

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Archos announces the release of a new GPS navigation device for its fifth generation PMPs. Equipped with an integrated SiRF Star III chip, the new in-car GPS cradle turns your entertainment 605 player into a full-fledged navigation system, by simply snapping the Archos into the GPS In-Car Holder, which is connected to the car windshield. By doing so, you get an intuitive interface that allows you to easily pick any address, remarkable location or point of interest and find the best way to get there, with a full voice and video navigation system, presenting the sharp, precise and fast solution. The new system provides any road info you want, including traffic assistance, route planning, tunnel simulation, radar locations and even speed control assistance in some countries. The ARCHOS GPS In-Car Holder is compatible with any Archos 605 player and will cost you only $129.99. You can also buy this GPS device bundled with a 30GB Archos 605 player, for $399.99. Both packages will be available in May 2008.

Update: Check out the video preview after the break.

Archos605-gps

[via Archos]

Continue reading Archos 605 Gets GPS Navigation Capabilities →

General, Hardware, News, software

Is Microsoft Planning To Open Unique Retail Stores?

Headstrong rumors claiming that Microsoft considers the opening of unique retail stores that will conspicuously market its own products. There is no doubt that Microsoft managers jealously squint at Apple’s success, thinking they can do the same, if not better. The only problem is that Apple has more hardware products to sell rather than Microsoft’s dominant software-based assortment. I mean, it’s not that Microsoft doesn’t have tangible things to offer, after all it does sell some great products like the Xbox 360 console, the Zune player, or complementary goods like video games and the accessories involved, not to mention the other peripherals such as webcam, keyboard or mouse. In addition, Microsoft sell retail software like Windows Vista and Microsoft Office, via affiliate partners and retailers. However, I’m not so sure it is the same variety as Apple’s products, including Mac, iPod and iPhone, with all the assorted accessories. Still, these are just rumors and I haven’t seen some major steps, coming from Microsoft direction, to carry out this project, but I am more than sure it crossed some Redmond minds. True or false, great or wrong, only time would tell.

microsoft-retail-store

[via macobserver]

Computers, News

Is This The New Asus Eee PC Desktop?

Encouraged by the huge Eee PC ultra-mini laptop success around the world, Asus wants to harness the momentum to its favor. The company has driveled some pieces of information about launching an Eee PC desktop version, somewhere in 2008, and the following picture, leaked only recently, might be the rumored prototype Asus was talking about. No official confirmation yet, but I do hope it is authentic because I really like the way it looks.

Asus-eee-pc-desktop

[via engadget]

Applications, Events, News, Phones

Apple iPhone SDK Event: Keynote Summary

3 Comments

iphone-sdk
Apple’s iPhone roadmap SDK event at “Town Hall” in Cupertino has answered our expectations with 7 major announcements from El Stivo. The keynote has introduced us as follows:

  • Apple announces iPhone SDK package.
  • iPhone gets multi-touch games.
  • iPhone receives AIM services.
  • Apple enables VOIP over WiFi.
  • iPhone gets native Exchange support, including push E-mail, calendars, and ActiveSync.
  • iPhone SDK available for free from today, requires $99 developers membership.
  • iPhone firmware update version 2.0 hits in June.

It’s not that we were strangers to most of today’s new announcements, on the contrary, we’ve been craving for them since the day the iPhone was launched, and finally they are here. Lets view some of them in a nutshell:

Apple’s iPhone SDK

For months we’ve been hearing tons of speculations about it, but today, we finally get a chance to look at Apple’s long-awaited iPhone SDK pack and stand on this exciting developer kit essence. Based on OS X Xcode source code, Cupertino will provide iPhone developers the same API and developing tools, used by Apple, including Cocoa Touch app framework, 3-axis accelerometer, access to an interface builder – providing drag n’ drop structuring of the GUI and automated power management, location enabled app, 3D graphics accelerators, full access to media capabilities and to the iPhone simulator, in order to experiment and run the developing application on OS X.

Continue reading Apple iPhone SDK Event: Keynote Summary →

CeBit, Events, Media Players, News, Phones

CeBIT 2008: Meizu M8 mini One Prototype Shows Up

3 Comments

After months of speculations, we finally can take a glimpse on the new Meizu M8 mini One. Although it is just an early prototype without any functional features, except the home screen, dialer and media player, we’re able to get a first impression and learn what to expect for. Suspiciously, The M8 looks similar to the iPhone, both from the outside and the inside GUI, it has a TV-output, 3 buttons downside and a touchscreen (not a multi-touch like the iphone’s). The final device will feature a Windows CE 6.0 OS, WiFi, Bluetooth 2.0+EDR, 3.4″ display (720 x 480), 3MP camera and many more. Meizu says the final hardware is complete and ready to be launched in China, somewhere around August.

meizu-m8-minione-vs-iphone

meizu-m8-minione-4 meizu-m8-minione-2 meizu-m8-minione-4

[via engadget]

Check out the videos and the specs after the break.

Continue reading CeBIT 2008: Meizu M8 mini One Prototype Shows Up →

Audio, Games, Media Players, News, Video

Microsoft Zune Gets Xbox 360 XNA Games

Microsoft inflames the masses, announcing games for Zune players, through XNA Studio 3.0. Although it is just an early announcement and most details are concealed, we know the games will be designed for both first and second Zune generation, with stress on trackpad capabilities in second-gen models. Zune owners will be able to play with their friends wirelessly, PSP style, though there are no plans for game sharing. XNA platform provides 2D graphics so don’t expect running Doom 3 or GTA IV on your Zune, but releasing a development kit might broaden the number of titles to offer. More details to be provided in Spring 2008.

zune-gaming

[via tech2]