Tag Archives: Media Players

Google Buzz Gets More Updates And Improvements, Reaching Over 9 Million Posts and Comments

Only two days after turning the Buzz official within Gmail accounts, Google seems to roll out more tweaks and improvements, based on feedbacks and user requests, sent directly or to its help desk account. First and foremost, Google has closed security breach where people could actually see lists of friends and followers which automatically appeared on new Google Pages that people initially created to post their Buzz feeds. Those lists created based on interaction with people you email and chat with the most, could literally expose to the world details no one wanted to unveil. There for, from now on the first time you create a post or comment in Buzz, you will be asked to initiate a limited public profile with minimal info released outside. In addition, you can easily choose whether to turn on publicly the lists of people you follow or that follow you back and which of these species can appear publicly on your profile or not. Furthermore, Google adds the ability to block followers or unfollow them with a simple click of a button. Stay tuned.

Update1: Google says that since launched, tens of millions of people have checked Buzz out, creating over 9 million posts and comments, overwhelmingly added to the growing 200+ posts per minute, initiated from mobile phones around the world.

Update2: So you’re already involved with the Buzz, posting your stuff and following others, but you’re not exactly familiar with all those tricks and tweaks the service offers and wonder where you could have learned them all in a matter of minutes. For that reason specifically, we’ve added a Google Buzz cheat sheet where you can find all the keys and shortcuts that would make it easier for you to use the Buzz. Check it out after the break.

Update3: Google has wisely decided to remove the Buzz auto-follow model in which you automatically follow the people you email and chat with most, whenever initiate a new Google profile page. Instead of this auto-suggest model you will be taken into a welcome page, where you will be reviewing the people in your lists that you’re interested outing to the public and others, you prefer keeping them hidden (third image after the break). In addition, your Buzz will not connect with your Google Reader and Picasa shared items automatically, so your “Unlisted” albums or “Protected” reading sources won’t be revealed, unless you decide to. And last but not least, Google has confirmed it will soon add a Buzz tab to the Gmail account that would create a clear distinction between your day-to-day mailing content and your Googlr Buzz feeds (fourth image). Stay tuned.

[Google]

Continue reading Google Buzz Gets More Updates And Improvements, Reaching Over 9 Million Posts and Comments

Google Buzz Announced, Turns Your Web Mail Socialized And Your Mobile Device Localized

Google officially released the Buzz. What is it, you’re asking? It’s Mountain View’s new platform that integrates into your Gmail account and turns it into a social community center (sort of), where you can share things like updates, photos, videos and a lot more with people you email and chat with the most. Additionally, the Buzz allows you to start interacting with those people and make in-mail conversations about anything you’d like in a simple and attractive way. The purpose, according to Bradley Horowitz, Google’s vice president for product management, is to simplify things and help people …”to find signal in the noise”. The target, in our humble opinion, is to launch a successful email product that would make people stick around all day long, and by that, create their own personal streaming platform that would eventually attract potential web users to follow their buzz and turn their voice even louder. Is it a war declaration against popular services like Twitter and Facebook? Time would tell. Google’s buzz  integrates with existing social networks and people can easily add their Flickr, Picasa, Twitter, Yahoo or Facebook accounts, and even Google Reader feeds, into the Buzz while creating  a new social networking interface/aggregator that would gather both mailing usage and media streaming in one accessible place. So, direct war? not sure, but challenging Facebook’s social media domination? definitely yes.

Basically, no special setup is needed and Gmail users should expect seeing the Buzz in their mail accounts immediately, or later on this week, as Google rolls out its new platform across the web, at these very moments . Once receiving it you will automatically start seeing lists of people, who you have emailed on Gmail, added to your Buzz. At that point you can start sharing with them whatever you want, including pictures, messages, videos, articles, news feeds and more, either publicly or in private. It’s a dual direction platform, so in that case you will see their updates as well, but also a few “Recommended Buzz” from friends of your friends, adjusted to your personal feedback.

As for mobile phones, Google also announced mobile integration for Buzz with dedicated apps and maps and an updated homepage you can log into at google.com/buzz. Buzz for mobile makes your sharing a lot easier than expected, it ” brings location to the forefront and makes it easy to have conversations about places”. To start, just type buzz.google.com in your mobile browser address line and begin posting buzz from your phone. You can tag your location or use the suggested tag if correct and later on, search all the public buzz created by your friends or nearby strangers around you in any given location you’ve personally tagged. This way you get yourself a personal location and recommendation platform, based on people’s most basic and common opinions, carried by their smartphones. As mentioned, you can use Google Maps and create public buzz directly from the layer, and attach photos into it from your mobile phone. You can create Textual Buzz shortcuts which appear as a small conversation bubble that everyone can see and read, or go even cooler by creating Voice Buzz shortcuts which let you post buzz without typing a word – Neat! Hit the break to watch the videos.

Update1: Looks like Google Maps 4.0 with Buzz support now available in the Android Market for those who own Android-based smartphones like G1, Droid or Nexus One. Feel free to download it right away and share the Buzz with your friends!

Continue reading Google Buzz Announced, Turns Your Web Mail Socialized And Your Mobile Device Localized

Apple To Significantly Cut Prices Of iPod Touch, Nano And Classic PMPs (Update: iPod Touch 3G Included)

With one more hour to go before announcing some new players, Apple is now reported to quietly slash down iPod Touch, Nano and Classic iPod prices on Cupertino’s on-line store, as follows:  iPod Touch – Apparently, the 8GB model is now priced at $189 (instead of $229), while 16GB version now stands at $249 (instead of $299), and the 32GB flavor is merely $279 (was $399 before). iPod Nano – The 8GB model will now set you back for $129 (instead of $149), as the 16GB Nano is now offered for only $149 (instead of previous $199). iPod Classic – Gets the competitive price of $229 instead of $249.

Update1: Turns out a new whopping 64GB iPod Touch version is now up and available for $399.

Update2: Looks like the $249 iPod Classic player is now being offered in 160GB storage. That’s extra 40GB to its predecessor.

Update3: So it seems a new iPod Touch 3G is out after all, but regretfully without a camera inside. Prices remain the same but the UI looks a little snappier than previous gen. Surprisingly, the guys at iFixit have managed to find a potential spot for a video camera, that Apple has probably allocated in the top of the device. That said, Steve Jobs already made it clear that Apple won’t integrate any footage features at this point. Stay tuned.

Update4: The guys at engadget have thrown themselves all over the “new” iPod Touch 3G, moments before it goes live. Hit the jump to take a look.

iPods-september-nine-pricecuts

[Apple]

Continue reading Apple To Significantly Cut Prices Of iPod Touch, Nano And Classic PMPs (Update: iPod Touch 3G Included)

iRiver's B30 PMP Abruptly Surfaces Up In Korea

In case you haven’t heard, South Korean iRiver has just released a new PMP device for the Asian market, with minor chances to hit some western shelves in the near future. Nevertheless, the new B30 device is claimed to have a 2.8-inch QVGA display, along with an FM tuner, T-DMB connectivity, a microSD expansion slot, and either 4GB, 8GB or 16GB storage capacities to choose from. Additionally, this wide range codecs-compatible unit is offered in various flavors, including Black, White or Silver hues, while battery should provide up to 40 hours of audio playback or 5.5 hours of video time – all competitively priced at $155 (4GB) and $183 (8GB), with flight costs excluded.

Update1: Checkout iRiver’s B30 promotion video after the break.

Update2: You should also check the other video in the line, featuring iRiver’s B30 UI , navigated via the touch sensitive buttons

Update3: Looks like the B30 is now available on a UK online shop, DAD, listed for £139. Hit the link for more images.

iriver-b30-pmp

[iriver via dapreview]

Continue reading iRiver's B30 PMP Abruptly Surfaces Up In Korea

Archos 2 / 4 Flash Players Show Up In The Wild (Update: Now Official)

After an unsuccessful effort to get into the mp3 players world with the 105 mediocre device, French company Archos is retrying to take a foothold within this category by releasing two flash players out of the blue, to be available in different hues and different capacities. First one, which already is available in Amazon for few hours and known as the Archos 2 packs either 8GB ($60) or 16GB ($92) capacities, together with a 1.8-inch 128 x 160 display, a microSD slot expansion, an FM tuner, a mic and a battery that can play up to 12 audio hours or 4, in case you prefer video files. The second, which is yet to be revealed, also known as the Archos 4, and is expected to have a 4-inch display with up to 32GB capacity inside. Other than that, there are no further details to share, so stay tuned for more to come.

Update1: Looks like Archos2 just turned official and is now available for purchasing  at the company’s website, as the 8GB version, which is still in “coming soon” status goes for $59.99, while the 16GB model will set you back for $99.99. Additionally, a blue version should be released somewhere this year, but we have no specific date to share yet.

Update2: Checkout Archos 2 video preview from Charbax, after the break.

Update3: Archos has re-branded both the 2 & 4 players, which are now called 2 Vision and 4 Vision. Both devices will go on a UK sale very shortly, a 1.8-inch display with optional 16GB capacity and a £50 ($80) price tag, and a £20 ($32) release, in case you settle with the 2GB version.

[via ArchosLounge]

Continue reading Archos 2 / 4 Flash Players Show Up In The Wild (Update: Now Official)

Cowon’s S9 PMP Gets a Chrome Black Limited Edition In Japan

Now that Cowon’s S9 PMP is already out to the market with its stylish curvy design and sharp 3.3-inch OLED display, the Koreans have decided to release a limited version for those who want to distinguish themselves from others. The few lucky ones will get a 16GB model, adorned with Chrome-Black hues, which give the player a prestigious look from bottom to top.  Other than that, it’s the same S9, sporting the same specs, including FM tuner, T-DMB TV, A2DP Bluetooth 2.0 connection, TV output, G-Sensor accelerometer, strong battery, delivering  up to 55hrs of audio playback or 11hrs of video, and wide range of codecs support. Regretfully, no other details to share at this point, but as far as we know, whenever you catch a “Limited Edition” release, you always pay more.

[via Akihabaranews]

Archos To announce New Generation Of 10S Netbooks, 9" Tablet PCs and Intel's Moorestone Platform Devices

Only a month after releasing its unattractive Archos 10 netbook model, the French corporation is looking forward, announcing a new generation of ultra-portable Mini PCs, which is expected to be released somewhere in April this year. The fresh Archos 10S lineup packs a 20mm chassis together with 3.5G functions, 1GB of RAM and up to 160GB hard drive. In addition to the 10S version, Archos plans to release in 2009 a 9-inch tablet PC with a virtual keyboard plus handwriting recognition feature that will join Intel’s Menlow-based Atom Z5xx processor and the 160GB HDD. Further more, Archos claims that both new portable computers will support high-def video playback, VOD and digital TV, while revolutionary 9″ tablet is said to have even more stronger edition, powered by Intel’s Moorestone MID platform that will presumably make a debut in 2010.

Update1: Archos officially rolls out the 10S  Mini PC and the 9-inch Tablet PC, both to be available somewhere this Fall.  The new 10S netbook will apparently include a 0.866’’ Ultra-thin chassis, packing a 10.2-inch display, an Intel ATOM 1.6 Ghz CPU with 1 GB of RAM, and 80GB hard disk storage.  Price wasn’t given up to this point but we’ve added a new image to the post.

Update2: First video of the Archos 10S is finally up, courtesy of Charbax. Hit the break to take a look.

archos-10s-netbook

[Archos][PDF link]

Continue reading Archos To announce New Generation Of 10S Netbooks, 9" Tablet PCs and Intel's Moorestone Platform Devices

Archos 10 Netbook Gets a Closer Look

Only days after launching the Archos 10 netbook, the guys at ArchosLounge have taken it for a closer roundup. From their impression, it’s just another version of MJ125 Hase, featuring specs like 1.6 Ghz Intel Atom N270 processor, 1GB of RAM, 3 cells battery, and 160GB hard drive, along with the usual 10/100 M Ethernet controller, 802.11b/g WiFi, 1.3MP webcam, or a 4-in-one card reader. Nevertheless, the potential is there, specially if you load inside a 6-cells battery and Ubuntu Satanic instead of the dull Windows XP system. Hit the link below for more images.

[via ArchosLounge]

Archos 10 Netbook Pops Out In The Wild (Update: Now Official)

For many of us, the name Archos relates to advanced multimedia players with quality video display and robust frame. But the French brand has already realized that the trends shift to some other directions, binding them to move forward and to be straightened with global tendencies. As a result, the company has joined the overcrowded market, introducing the Archos 10, a 10.2-inch netbook with ordinary specs like 1.6 Ghz Intel Atom N270 processor, 1GB of RAM, a 3 cells (6 optional) battery, 160 GB hard drive and Windows XP onboard. Nothing special in terms of design, but you also get a 1.3MP webcam, a card reader (4 in 1), 3 USB 2.0 ports, and the usual internet connectivity stuff. Still no word on price or availability, but we sure hope to hear more from this direction.

Update1: Archos 10 is now official and ready to go. The specs remain similar to those we’ve already noted up . In addition, you get 10/100 M Ethernet controller, 802.11b/g WiFi, PCI-E interface, 2 stereo speakers, VGA output, and a mic. Archos also loaded up various software, including Lotus Symphony Working Suite, XnView photo editor, Vtuner Web Radio & TV Player, BitDefender Antivirus 2009 and Parental Filter. As for the numbers, the Archos 10 is priced at $399 for the 3-cell battery version, or $449 in case you’re a 6-cell avid.

Update2: The Archos 10 is now available to order, starting at $399 for the basic package.

Update3: In case you’re keen of Barbie style, the French company has just released a Pink Archos 10 edition, to be available across Europe with the same specs and prices we’ve already mentioned earlier.

Update4: Now you can get even more, as Archos 10 Ubuntu Edition is up and available for 375 Euros (around $525), including the same specs, only with Ubuntu Linux OS inside, paired with 2GB of RAM, and a 500GB hard drive.

[via archoslounge]

Continue reading Archos 10 Netbook Pops Out In The Wild (Update: Now Official)

Cowon's S9 Curvy PMP To Make a Debut In Korea First (Update: Then In The US)

Remember Cowon’s S9 PMP that was first introduced at IFA 2008 in Berlin? Turns out it will make a debut in Korea on December 16th in 4GB / 8GB / 16GB versions, for 219,000 won ($150), 259,000 won ($178), or 309,000 won ($213), respectively. Truth to tell, we were skeptical about this one, specially after discernible delays in the European launch and due to the lack of information concerning a US release. However, Cowon has proved it can live up to its promis and according to yesterday’s official announcement, the Korean company will deliver the goods, despite some “problems in production”. In other words, we are expected to see the S9 player landing on western shelves, somewhere around the beginning of 2009.

In any case, this stylish curvy 3.3-inch AMOLED touchscreen player boasts some impressive specs, including a strong Dual Core processor, an FM tuner, T-DMB tuner, A2DP Bluetooth 2.0 connection, a TV output and even a G-Sensor accelerometer (probably for future games). Furthermore, it supports MP3, WMA, OGG, FLAC, WAV audio formats and MPEG-4 SP, WMV9 SP, H.264 BP video formats, while the battery provides up to 55hrs of audio playback or 11hrs of video playback.

Additionally, first GUI screen shots imply for a wide range of usability, and  plenty of touchscreen features that Cowon plans to bring into the S9, as some of them resemble the iPod touch and some carry their own identity. Stay tuned for more to come.

Update1: checkout the new video and full specs after the break.

Update2: UK release is scheduled to December 15th. Price wise, the Cowon S9 will be priced at £169 ($252) for the 8GB and £199 ($297) for the 16GB.

Update3: forget the delays, Cowon has officially announced that the S9 US release will go live on December 19th, priced at $199.99 (8GB) / $239.99 (16GB). You will be able to find it at Amazon.com, eBay.com, Newegg.com, B&H, and ZipZoomFly.com.

Update4: Cowon has already issued the first S9 firmware update, fixing some bugs and UI corrections.

Update5: You can get over 250 flash games for your S9, in 3 packs, compressed in RAR. Just open the files and copy to the flash library –  Game Pack 1 ; Game Pack 2 ; Game Pack 3

Update6: April 16, Cowon releases a 32GB version in South Korea, to be available for ?379,000 ($287). Still no word about a US release for this one.

Update7: May 3rd – Cowon’s 32GB S9 PMP finally arrives Stateside and can be found at Amazon.com for $299.99, either in Black or Titanium flavors.

Update8: As if any of you had any doubts about the possibility that someone out there will eventually open up this sleeky device and start playing with the inner parts, think twice, as the guys at Anything But iPod recently introduced in their Cowon forum some neat images of the S9 cracked open and dissected into small parts, offering a rich look of the touchscreen PMP from the inside. Hit the link for more pictures of the disassembled unit.

[via AnythingButiPod]

Continue reading Cowon's S9 Curvy PMP To Make a Debut In Korea First (Update: Then In The US)

Cowon O2 PMP Gets a First UI Video Impression

The new Cowon O2 will make its way to the market in early November. Meanwhile, we get a chance to look at some of the early images that popup from different directions. First impression unveils an elegant look with a nice 4.3-inch 480 x 272 touchscreen, sans buttons, and a traditional Cowon slot that contains an SD port, a TV output and a mini USB connection. Format wise, the O2 supports almost every available codec on earth, including MP3, WMA, FLAC, OGG, AAC, ASF, WAV, APE, WavPack, True Audio Lossless, MusePack, Monkey’s Audio, AVI, WMV, MPEG-4 SP, MKV, OGM, MPEG-2, DAT and MTV. As for storage, the flash-based PMP offers 8GB/16GB or 32GB capacities to choose from. Hit the jump to catch the video, presenting the UI.

Update: It is now available on JetMall, Amazon, NewEgg and others, priced at $219.99 (8GB), $249.99 (16GB) or $299.99 (32GB).

[via Crave]

Continue reading Cowon O2 PMP Gets a First UI Video Impression

Archos 5 Gets an Official Guided Tour

Following Apple’s steps, French multimedia manufacturer, Archos, has just released a 13 minutes guided tour video, introducing its latest Internet Media Tablet lineup, together with some of the main key features and the optional plugins/accessories you can get, in order to enhance your experience. It is the first time that Archos releases such a video tour, as part of its new global marketing strategy, to push forward the new Archos 5 and the Archos 7 media tablets. Checkout the video after the break.

[Archos]

Continue reading Archos 5 Gets an Official Guided Tour

MobiBlu Rolls Out The New T20 PMP

Korean company MobiBlu has released their latest T20 media player, coming with a 2.4-inch 320 x 240 display, an FM radio, a voice recorder, and flash storage, ranged from 1GB up to 8GB. It is compatible with MP3, WMA, FLAC, AAC, APE, RM / RMVB, AVI, JPG, BMP, TXT file formats and already available in Asia for around $200 (8GB). I guess there are some other alluring alternatives to spend the money on. Meaning, we need a better price.

[via gmp3]

Presumed New iPod Nano and iPod Touch Dimensions Slings Out

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

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]

Onda Intros The New VX787 Touchscreen PMP

Onda has introduced its latest VX787 PMP, coming up with a 4.3-inch touchscreen (480 x 272), a microphone, a speaker, an FM tuner, 7 EQ, microSD slot, a TV output and storage capacity, ranged from 2GB up to 16GB. This player, which is about to make a debut in September, supports wide variety of formats, including MP3, WMA, ASF, WMV9 SP, MPEG-4 SP, RM / RMVB, AVI, FLV, ASF, MP4, MPG, MOV, WMA, WMV, 3GP, SWF, TXT, JPEG, BMP, GIF, PNG, and plays 30 hours of audio against 10 hours of video. Count $200 for the 16GB version. There’s a video preview after the break.

[via mp4global]

Continue reading Onda Intros The New VX787 Touchscreen PMP

IFA 2008: Sony Officially Introduces S, E And B Walkman Series

Following Sony’s recent Walkman lineup revelation, the company has decided to go official, introducing “S”, “E”, and “B” Walkman players, to be released in the coming September with prices ranged from $45 up to $180.

The S series

Includes the 4GB NWZ-S736F and 8GB NWZ-S738F Walkmans, coming up with a light 7.5mm thick design, a 2-inch QVGA LCD display, an FM tuner, noise-cancelling technology, drag-and-drop file management and wide formats support, like MP3, WMA, AAC, Linear PCM, JPEG, and MPEG-4. Battery life is very impressive and can deliver up to 40 hours of audio playback or 10 hours of video.

[via cellphonehits]

Continue reading IFA 2008: Sony Officially Introduces S, E And B Walkman Series

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

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

Maxian To Introduce a New Lineup, Including The L900S, M1 & T2 PMPs

Moments before the beginning of IFA 2008, Korean company Maxian announces the release of a new media players lineup, including the L900S, T2 and the M1, coming up with hefty storage capacities and wide screens.

Maxian L900S

Packs a 4.3-inch WVGA TFT LCD screen (800 x 480), T-DMB tuner, 160GB HDD capacity and wide codex support, including MP3, WAV, WMA, OGG, AC3, AAC, FLAC , EPA, MKA, TTA, AVI, JPG, WMV, ASF, DAT, VOB, MP4, TS, MKV, and JPG.

[via gmp3]

Continue reading Maxian To Introduce a New Lineup, Including The L900S, M1 & T2 PMPs

Trekstor To Boost Up New Players, Including Vibez, i.Beat Organix & Nova

It’s been a while since we last heard from Trekstor. This time, it announces the release of some new players, including the company’s flagship PMP, the Vibez, coming up with a new 32GB flash memory version, coated with the same shape and features. The other players include the i.Beat Organix, available in 4GB/8GB versions, 55 hours of battery life, a small OLED display and four colors to choose from, while the i.Beat Nova, which is considered to be the smaller in the group, comes with a tiny OLED screen, 2GB, 4GB, or 8GB flash capacities and a USB stick design. Prices start from €29 ($43) for the Nova models and climb up to €129 ($191) for the high-end Vibez, when they will be launched across Europe around September.

[Via DAPreview]

Continue reading Trekstor To Boost Up New Players, Including Vibez, i.Beat Organix & Nova

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

Cowon To Introduce The S9 Stylish Curved PMP

Cowon announces some new products to be officially released next week, during IFA 2008 show at Berlin. One of the most interesting devices within the new lineup is the S9, a nice curved PMP with a 3.3-inch 16M colors capacitive AMOLED  touchscreen (480 x 272) and a strong 500MHz DualCore processor. It packs a T-DMB television tuner for Korean market, an FM tuner, a bluetooth connectivity, TV output and even a G-Sensor accelerometer. Still, no info about storage capacities or codecs support, but you can trust Cowon to be generous as usual. Battery life, on the other hand, was confirmed and will deliver up to 40 hours of continuous music. Stay tuned for more to come later this week.

Update: The S9 will be available next month with 8GB or 16GB storage capacities, while a 32GB version will hit later on. As mentioned, it will support many codecs, including MP3, WMA, OGG, FLAC, WAV audio formats and MPEG-4 SP, WMV9 SP, H.264 BP video formats.

[Cowon]

YAMAHA To Release BODiBEAT, First Music Player That Matches Songs to Workout Pace

YAMAHA starts shipping the new BODiBEAT PMP, which is considered to be the world’s first music player that selects songs to match the pace of the user’s workout and automatically syncs music selections with the steps of the user’s walk or run, making exercises more fun than ever before. In addition, you get a BODiBEAT Station, software that automatically categorizes each downloaded song by beats per minute (bpm), and a small heart rate monitor that clips onto the user’s ear, allowing BODiBEAT to track the metrics of your workouts, including distance, time, pace and heart rate. To make it more comfortable, YAMAHA added an armband, designed for ease-of-use during active pursuits. The player itself packs only 512MB of internal flash memory and a 12 hours battery life when fully charged. There are four main operating modes, like Free, Fitness, Training and Music.

Free mode: BODiBEAT automatically matches the music to the exercise pace.

Fitness mode: you get Walk Fitness and Jog Fitness, each of which works in conjunction with the heart rate monitor to select the most appropriate music for optimal aerobic exercise at the user’s fitness level.

Training mode: tells users when to speed up and slow down for ideal results, and it does so while playing their favorite music.

Music mode: BODiBEAT functions as a standard portable audio player.

As for prices, the suggested retail price of $299 seems expropriated, considering the poor 512MB internal memory, but somehow, we get the impression it will be around $199 (just a hunch).

[YAMAHA]

Continue reading YAMAHA To Release BODiBEAT, First Music Player That Matches Songs to Workout Pace

Creative Announces The Release Of The Zen Mozaic PMP

Creative seems to be very dominant lately, as the company rolls out yet another player after recent introductions of the X-Fi and the Krystal. The new Zen Mozaic lives up to his name, coming up with a 1.8-inch TFT display (128 x 160) and three optional storage capacities, including 2GB, 4GB, or 8GB flavor. It has an FM tuner, a microphone, 8EQ, built-in speakers and USB 2,0/MTP connectivity. You get three colors to choose from, black, silver and pink, when all versions support MP3, WMA, WAV, Audible, JPEG file formats and 36 hours of battery life. The player is set to be released in Singapore somewhere around August for $99, $129 or $169 respectively.

Update: the player is now available, as promised, only in 2GB ($59.99) and 4GB ($79.99) versions at the moment.

[via Creative]

Continue reading Creative Announces The Release Of The Zen Mozaic PMP

JVC Publio TX-700 Runs Promotional Ads In Public

This new Publio TX-700 from JVC was primarily created to run video advertisements and promotional stuff in stores or retailers. The bulky PMP comes with a 7-inch display, an SD card slot, built-in stereo speakers, USB 2.0 connection, and some programming options. It is compatible with video codecs as MPEG-1, MPEG-2, MP3 audio format and JPEG/BMP files. Regretfully, there is no word on price or availability but you may see this player updating you with sales and advertising campaigns in Japan.

 jvc-publio-tx700

[via akihabaranews]

Archos 705 Vs. Cowon Q5W – The Duel

archos705-vs-cowonQ5W

Audio, Video, WiFi, internet surfing, today’s mega gadgets are not just a simple player, they are all-in-one devices, cramming advanced multimedia features into a relatively small box. Cnet has decided to make a comparison duel between top 2 mega PMP players, the Archos 705 and the Cowon Q5W, in order to determine which device is the one true king of the non-pocketable media players. Cnet has gathered three gadgets experts to judge both devices according to 5 categories: Navigation, Sexiness, Compatibility, Sound and Science, Wallet Factor. The results are as plain as the nose on one’s face, Archos 705 is the undoubtable winner, collecting 56 points against 50 of the Q5W. Check the full details here.

[via Cnet]

Teac Introduces a New PMPs Lineup

Teac announces the release of three media players with very basic features and a standard design. All models come with FM tuner, LCD screen and recording capabilities.

Teac MP-370 : 1.5 “LCD display, 1GB/2GB/4GB storage size, FM tuner, 19 EQ, mic, USB 2.0, compatible with MP3, WMA, JPG, SMV. Dimensions: 10 x 70x 40mm, 40gm. Priced at $69.90 for the 4GB.

Teac-MP-370

[via gmp3]

Check the other models after the break.

Continue reading Teac Introduces a New PMPs Lineup

Creative Zen 4GB/8GB Get a Price Cut

Creative wants to increase the competition, the company has decided to cut down the prices of the Zen 4GB and 8GB models, in order to place an alternative to the costly players, and when we say “costly” we refer to iPods. The 4GB model is now $99, and the 8GB model drops to $149. That’s an impressive move that might influence other manufacturers to go all the way down with their prices.

creative-zen-32gb

[via creative]

iPod Video 5G Gets A Bluetooth Modification

Fifth generation 30GB iPod Video owners, who wish to add a Bluetooth connectivity to their players, can easily do so with ipodhackers step-by step tutorial. First thing you have to do is to disassemble the device, then integrate a Bluetooth module into it, remove the hard disk and replace it with a Compact Flash card. The last is needed since the 30GB model is tight to house both the Bluetooth module and the original hard drive. If you are not tech geeks, don’t try to get into this advemture !

ipod-video-5G-bluetooth-hack-2

[via ipodhackers]

MyRacer MF101 Gaming Device Is Forgettable

Korean company, MyRacer, introduced their latest portable gaming device, equipped with a 2.4-inch (320 x 240) display and a media player. Personally, i don’t think Sony has to be fearful for its PSP gaming consoles, but the MF101 does support AVI, MP3, WMA, WAV, JPEG and BMP. Additionally, it has 1GB internal flash memory, expandable SD slot and 2 keypads on both sides. The MF101 sports a flash interface and supports Adobe Flash-based games. The device is available in S.Korea for 104$.

  myracer-mf101

[via technabob]

Sony Launches Two Walkmans With Bluetooth support

Sony unveils the A-series media players lineup with a 2.4-inch LCD display (320 × 240) and a Bluetooth2.0 A2DP connectivity, delivering wireless music to your bluetooth headset/speakers. The new PMPs feature 8GB (NW-A820) or 16GB (NW-A829) storage size, support MP3, AAC, ATRAC Advanced Lossless, DRM WMA, linear PCM audio formats, and MPEG4, AVHC, H.264 video formats. The battery is very strong, providing 36 hours of music and 10 hours of video. Dimensions are 93.9 × 51 x 9.3mm, 59gm. An optional VRC-NW10 dock, enabling scheduled TV/Radio recording, will be available during this year. All players will be equipped with a 13.5mm EX headset and we expect to see them retailed in Japan around March and a month later in Europe. The NW-A820 is priced at $260, the NW-A829 at $353 and the optional cradle at $186. You will be able to choose between black, silver, pink and gold colors.

Sony-NW-A-series

[via gmp3, slashgear]

Check out the pictures and video after the break.

Continue reading Sony Launches Two Walkmans With Bluetooth support

TG Introduces The Favicon PMP With Navigation Capabilities

TG presents the Favicon, a new PMP-navigation device with dual DMB – PIP functionality (thats two TV channels at once) and a 532MHz Freescale CPU. This 7? WVGA player houses TPEG GPS navigation system (providing traffic info), 4GB storage size, SD card slot, multimedia player and a Windows Vista OS (!). Release date is unknown but you will be able to find it only in Korea for 420$ .

TG-Favicon-PMP

[via akihabaranews]

Sumvision Introduces The ICE1000 Mini PMP With A Touchscreen

Sumvision unveils the ICE1000, a mini PMP with a 2.8″ touchscreen. It seems everyone wants to have their own touch device and the iPod Touch is the one to set the rally. We’re not so sure this is the right killer but the market votes for the buttons-less players. With a clean design, the Ice1000 might be just the cheaper alternative. Check out the specs:

specifications:

  • Display: 2.8? TFT LCD (320 × 240).
  • Storage Size: 4GB internal flash memory.
  • Audio: MP3, WMA.
  • Video: MP4, WMV, XviD, AVI.
  • Pictures: JPEG, RSC, TXT.
  • Features: microSD slot, FM radio tuner, a microphone, USB 2.0, external speaker, e-book reader, 7 EQ, multi-language interface.
  • Battery Life: audio-10 hours, video-4 hours.
  • Size: 90 × 55 x 12mm, 62 gm.
  • Price: $88.00.

Sumvision-ICE1000

[via gmp3]

Coby Introduces The MP-835 PMP

Coby aims the touch market, as the company unveils the new MP-835 PMP with a slick design and a 3-inch touchscreen. The new player already received FCC certifications, so you might find it on US retailers very soon. With a smooth look and the right features, it might be a cheaper alternative to other touchscreen players available on the market. Check out the specs:

specifications:

  • Display: 3? TFT LCD (480 × 272).
  • Storage Size: 2GB or 4GB.
  • Audio: MP3, WMA, OGG.
  • Video: WMV, AVI.
  • Pictures: JJPG, BMP, GIF and TXT.
  • Features: microSD slot, FM radio tuner, USB 2.0, multi-lingual interface.
  • Size: 52 × 97 x 10mm.
  • Price: Not Available

Coby-MP835

[via gmp3]

Sony Ericsson W980 Walkman Gets Clamshell Design

Sony Ericsson has just introduced the new W980 quad-band HSDPA 2100 Walkman lineup, with nice rounded black shell design and “Walkman on Top” function, allowing full player control without opening the shell. The W980 sports the following features:

  • Display: 262,144 colors (240 x 320).
  • Storage: 8GB internal capacity
  • 3.2MP camera with video recording.
  • Features: HSDPA high speed connectivity, FM radio transmitter, Bluetooth A2DP, MP3/AAC audio compatibility, Shake Control Technology – shake your phone and change the song.
  • Availability: Q3 2008.
  • Price: Unknown.

sony-ericsson-w980

[via gizmodo]

More pictures after the break.

Continue reading Sony Ericsson W980 Walkman Gets Clamshell Design

Archos 405 Gets 30GB Storage

Archos released an upgraded version for the 405 PMPs. The new model features 30GB hard drive storage instead of the previous flash memory, 3.5” TFT screen 16M colors, a microphone, ext. speaker, TV output and more. Archos removed the previous SD / SDHC slot configuration and fixed the price on 290$ (€199). The new 405 is expected to be available immediately in Europe.

Archos-405

[via archoslounge]

Toshiba Storms With New Gigabeat PMP Series

Toshiba announces an update release for its Gigabeat lineup, including the Gigabeat V81, T802, U407 and U408 players.

Gigabeat V81 (Replacing the V41 model)

  • Display: 3.5? LCD TFT screen (320×240).
  • TV Tuner: 1Seg (Japanese digital signal).
  • Storage: 8GB.
  • Audio: WMA , Lossless, MP3, WAV.
  • Video: AVI, WMV.
  • Pictures: JPEG.
  • Features: portable digital TV, USB 2.0, SD slot.
  • Battery: audio – 40 hours, video – 13 hours, broadcasting – 10 hours.
  • Size: 115 x 75 x 14.2 mm 168gm
  • Price: $330. Available in Japan from this month.

toshiba-gigabeat-v81

Continue reading Toshiba Storms With New Gigabeat PMP Series

Novodio Miniplug Helps Charging Your iPod On The Go

This new USB mini-plug adapter from Novodio can easily connect your iPod player (or your iPhone) into the wall and charge it without other accessories. The tiny plug has a USB hub on one side and an outlet connection on the other side, for direct charging. Being so small, it takes no place in your luggage and costs around 22$.

novodio-usb-miniplug-adapter

[via gmp3]

Another picture after the break.

Continue reading Novodio Miniplug Helps Charging Your iPod On The Go

Newman Introduces The X2 And X5 Media Players

The Chinese corporation, Newman, storms the market with plenty of new media players. Two of the latest are the Momo X2 and Momo X5 which remind us the Meizu M6 and M3 players.

Momo X2

  • Display: 1.5? QVGA screen.
  • Storage size: up to 4GB.
  • Audio: MP3, WMA, APE, FLAC.
  • Video: AVI.
  • Features: two audio chipsets RK2706 and Wolfson WM8987, FM tuner, microphone.
  • Unknown price and availability.

newman-momo-x2

Momo X5

  • Display: 2.4? QVGA screen.
  • Storage size: 2GB and 4GB.
  • Audio: MP3, WMA, APE, FLAC.
  • Video: AVI, RMVB, FLV.
  • Features: two audio chipsets RK2706 and Wolfson WM8987, FM tuner, microphone.
  • Unknown price and availability.

 newman-momo-x5

[via gmp3]

Teclast T50 PMP Sports A Multi-Touch Screen

Teclast unveils a new PMP with a multi-touch screen. The T50 might be just another multimedia player, but with multi-point touch sensors, it pretends to compete with the iPod Touch. The player features a wide ultra-high-resolution screen with the same iPod Touch capacitive touch-screen, RMVB / RM / FLV / AVI video support and dual-core independence high-quality audio processor. Teclast says a new T59 version is in development and will be released with larger screen, GPS, DMB-TV, multi-point touch and more. No further details regarding price or availability.

teclast-t50

[via engadget]

iPhone 16GB & iPod Touch 32GB Officialy Released

Super Tuesday is a big US political celebration but also Apple’s announcements day. As we speak, the Cupertino company unveiled the rumored 16GB iPhone for retail price of 499$ and the surprising 32GB iPod Touch for the same price of 499$. Both devices are available immediately worldwide and no other changes were reported. I guess we should be wondering if a 32GB iPhone is coming out this year.

iphone16gb+ipod-touch-32gb

[via Apple]

Newman Red Heart Player Designed For Valentine’s Lovers

To those of you who haven’t decided what to buy to your partner for Valentine’s day, this new mp3 player from Newman might be a reasonable solution. “Couples” mp3 music device is actually 2 individual players, turning into one big red heart, once combined together. The players come with 1/2GB storage capacity, mp3 and WMA audio support, clean two touch buttons design, FM tuner, recording function and strap attached, so you can…you know, put them around the neck, like those corny necklaces we had 20 years ago. Price is around 55$ so you have 10 days to decide.

Newman-Hearts-Player

[via imp3]

More pictures after the break.

Continue reading Newman Red Heart Player Designed For Valentine’s Lovers

Microsoft Zune 8GB Gets Cheaper

Now it’s official, the Zune 8GB gets 20$ price cut, so you can find the player across the US for just $179. The reason for the latest discount wasn’t stated but I believe Microsoft wants to increase the competition with Apple’s iPod players. The reduction brings the Zune 4GB only 30$ away from the 8GB player, which makes it dispensable.

 zune-8gb-price-down

[via engadget]

Samsung P2 Firmware Update 3.07 Goes Live

Samsung released the second part of the Blue Wave firmware update for P2 players. The first part unveiled Bluetooth support, enabling wireless file sharing with other supported devices and Bluetooth phone integration to handle cellphones via the players. The new 3.07 update version features the following:

  • Gui improvements, including 3D icons.
  • Radio music saving.
  • Album art view.
  • 3 games.
  • Video zooming.
  • Picture zooming and rotating.
  • Text rotating.
  • Alarm Clock.
  • Customized equalizer.
  • and many more.

Download the new update here.

Check out the video.

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

[via gmp3]

Slacker Portable Internet Radio Player Goes Live

To those of you who haven’t heard about Slacker, we are talking about an internet radio service that hosts hundreds of radio stations. Slacker announced the release of a portable internet radio player, back in January 2008 at the CES show and now it goes live and getting shipped to retailers. The new Slacker player comes with three 4-inch screen models:

  • 2GB – stores 15 stations and free 500MB for your personal media – 200$.
  • 4GB – stores 25 stations and free 1.5GB for your personal media – 250$.
  • 8GB – stores 40 stations and free 4GB for your personal media – 300$.

The stations are loaded to the player through your USB-PC sync or through wireless hotspots, via the WiFi connection. Each station is presumably loading 100 songs to the player and it seems they are doing a good job in learning your music taste, Pandora style. A satellite car dock is expected to be released in the near future.

slacker-player

[via slashgear]

Check the video after the break.

Continue reading Slacker Portable Internet Radio Player Goes Live

Garmin Introduces The Nuvifone Smartphone Device

Garmin announces the release of the Nuvifone, a new 3.5G GSM HSDPA smartphone, combined with a media player, full GPS navigation system, proprietary OS and many advanced elements. The Nuvifone sports the following features:

  • Display: 3.5? touchscreen.
  • 3 major icons: Call, Search, Maps
  • Built-in camera with longitude / latitude tagging system.
  • Full GPS navigation system, loaded with North America and European maps.
  • Google local search capability.
  • Garmin Online Service: an online updates information service, including weather, traffic, stocks, news, sports, hotels, etc.
  • WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity.
  • Email, SMS/MMS and IM support.
  • Nuvi navigation service, providing “Where Am I ” function, for an accurate location info, on and off the road.
  • Integrated media player, supports MP3 and MPEG4/AAC .
  • Availability: Q3 2008.
  • Price: Unknown.

I’m definitely looking forward to snack one of those and see it in action.

garmin-nuvifone

[via gizmodo]

More pictures after the break.

Continue reading Garmin Introduces The Nuvifone Smartphone Device

Kenwood MGR-A7 Features A Personal Recorder With An MP3 Player

Kenwood announces the release of Media Keg MGR-A7 series that combines a recording device with an mp3 player in one unit. The MGR-A7 is a high-performance 3-mounted microphone recorder with three levels of automatic recording feature set, to prevent noise incorporation. The device features 2GB of internal memory, SD/SDHC slot, small LCD screen, USB 2.0, multi-language support, MP3, WMA, WAV audio formats support, 19 hours continuous playback and recording sustained, 7EQ compatibility and the size of 52.7 x 100 x18 mm for 95gm. It is available in Japan in Black and Red colors.

kenwood-MGR-7

[via gmp3]

Pasen to Introduce the F10 MP3 Player

Pasen revealed a new mp3 player, the F10. The new device features the following specifications:

  • Display: 2.6?, 16:9, 260k colors (400 x 240).
  • Storage size: 4GB (90 Euros), 8GB (120 Euros).
  • Audio: MP3, WMA, APE, FLAC, AAC.
  • Video: AVI, XviD, Divx, RMVB.
  • Features: microSD slot, microphone, FM tuner,  touch pad,  8 EQ effects.
  • Pictures: JPEG, BMP, GIF, RSC, TXT.
  • Size:  102x47x7 mm.

pasen-F10

 [via gmp3]