Tuesday, January 8, 2013

Android Authority

Android Authority


AT&T offers video-on-demand service to discourage cord cutting

Posted: 08 Jan 2013 02:46 AM PST

AT&T_U-Verse

The discussion about cord cutting has been growing louder as more and more people consider ditching expensive cable packages and replacing them with video-on-demand services offering libraries of content. The popularity of Netflix, Amazon Instant Video, Redbox Instant, and Hulu has got some traditional providers worried. AT&T is the latest company to introduce some kind of video-on-demand service for existing customers, possibly to try and combat the lure of Netflix and the gang.

Announced at CES in Las Vegas yesterday, the new service is called the U-Verse Screen Pack and it will cost $5 per month. It's only available to existing U-Verse TV subscribers and currently it offers a library of 1,500 movies which can be viewed on TVs, laptops, tablets or smartphones. AT&T is offering a free preview week which ends on January 13th.

The service is focused on movies, unlike Netflix which also offers TV shows, and AT&T has promised that more titles will be added as they strike deals with studios. Currently 1,500 movies puts it a long way behind the competition.

When you consider the economic imperative for many people to consider cutting the cord in the first place, you have to wonder why AT&T is charging extra for this. Subscribers to U-Verse are already paying monthly fees, charging them an extra $5 per month for a service that sounds far inferior to the video-on-demand competition doesn't seem like a sure fire way of retaining customers. What do you think?

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Sony Xperia Z coming to Phones4U UK on March 1 for unspecified price

Posted: 08 Jan 2013 02:30 AM PST

Sony-Xperia-Z

Sony's new flagship, first known as the Yuga and then as the Xperia Z, stopped being a secret a while ago, so you can't say we're very surprised to see it on display at CES. Even the 5-incher's spec sheet was more or less an open book for weeks now, so no surprises there either.

But what we didn't know and hoped to hear about in Las Vegas was the monster phone's ETA and pricing. Unfortunately, Sony insists to keep us on our toes, so we only got an ambiguous Q1 2013 as a release timeframe during the company's CES press conference.

Then again, Sony can't stop retailers and carriers from spilling the beans to build the hype, so we now have the first official word from a future Xperia Z seller. Phones4U in UK will have the big guy up for grabs starting on March 1 both online and in retail stores.

Sony Xperia Z-2

Naturally, pricing is kept under wraps by the British retailer too, but if you pre-register on Phones4U's website, you should be updated with further news in the coming weeks.

As for carriers expected to sell the Z, the only one who's being able to confirm anything at this time is Vodafone (though no ETA has been announced). However, we know from Phones4U that the handheld is due to land on "a range of networks", so launches on EE, O2 and Three are all in the cards.

Meanwhile, we still don’t know a single thing about ZL’s release in “selected markets” or Z’s landing in the US, but we’ll be keeping an eye out for you and come back with whatever news we get ASAP.

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Samsung’s Galaxy S4 might be unveiled as early as March

Posted: 08 Jan 2013 02:28 AM PST

galaxy-s4-hands-on-mockup-1

Seeing that it was never expected in the first place, we're not too disappointed about the Samsung Galaxy S4 not making a cameo at the International Consumer Electronics Show.

While Las Vegas hasn't brought us any information about the smartphone, a new report from Samsung's home country reveals that the Galaxy S4 might be unveiled earlier, with March being put down as the tentative date.

The date was revealed by a Samsung official, who also said that the company is still deciding whether to officially launch its next flagship device in South Korea, America, or the UK. If you remember, Samsung held a coming out party for the Galaxy S3 in the UK in May 2012, so there's a good chance that they may try to recreate the magic the second time around.

Speaking of rumors – maybe, just maybe, that dodgy-looking invitation isn't a fake after all? Nah. What we do know for sure is the Galaxy S4 name has been confirmed. Also, the phone is likely to carry the GT-i9500x model number.

The next few months will be exciting/frustrating. Are you ready for the Galaxy S4 ride?

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Samsung to preload Dropbox on its PCs and smart cameras

Posted: 08 Jan 2013 12:38 AM PST

Dropbox

The partnership between Samsung and Dropbox started with the Galaxy S3, the first smartphone from Sammy that comes with a free 50GB online storage courtesy of the cloud company. With the app seemingly becoming a permanent fixture on Samsung's phones and tablets, Dropbox has announced that its cloud service will be integrated into more Samsung devices.

The official announcement, which was made yesterday, means that Dropbox will make its way to Samsung PCs and smart cameras starting from March 2013.

“Extending our successful relationship with Samsung from mobile phones to cameras gives users more opportunities to access and share photos, videos and documents, regardless of what device they are on," said Lars Fjeldsoe-Nielsen, Dropbox Head of Mobile Business Development.

Dropbox reached 100 million users back in November. The expanded availability of the cloud service on various Samsung devices will definitely help it gain more users and stay ahead of the competition.

 

Show full PR text

Dropbox Continues to Grow Samsung Partnership with Several New Integrations

Dropbox to be embedded on new Samsung GALAXY Grand and Samsung SMART CAMERAs

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. – January 7, 2013 – Dropbox, a free service that lets you bring your documents, photos and videos everywhere and share them easily, today announced a deep integration with several new Samsung devices, including the upcoming Samsung GALAXY Grand smartphone and SMART CAMERAs .

This marks the next step in the partnership between Dropbox and Samsung, which began in 2012 with Dropbox integrations on the Samsung devices, including Samsung GALAXY S III, Samsung GALAXY Note II, and Samsung GALAXY Camera.

“Dropbox and Samsung share a common goal when it comes to connectivity across devices. We believe that the things that matter most to people should be accessible at all times,” said Lars Fjeldsoe-Nielsen, Head of Mobile Business Development at Dropbox. “Extending our successful relationship with Samsung from mobile phones to cameras gives users more opportunities to access and share photos, videos and documents, regardless of what device they are on.”

Beginning in March 2013, Dropbox will also be integrated on Samsung PCs and a number of Samsung SMART CAMERAs being released throughout 2013.

The GALAXY Note II was the first Samsung device to launch with Dropbox deeply integrated in the photo and video gallery. Every photo or video users take on their Samsung device will be automatically uploaded to their Dropbox folder. This eliminates the need to hook up cables or remove SD cards to transfer photos to a PC, making it even easier to access and share content across devices and furthering Dropbox’s mission of simplifying people’s lives.

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Qualcomm announces the Snapdragon 800 and 600, says goodbye to the S4

Posted: 07 Jan 2013 10:52 PM PST

You know how Qualcomm’s chips used to be called the S3, but then last year we started seeing devices featuring chips known as the S4? Chances are you were expecting the S5 to be announced this year, right? Well, we’re sorry to say this, but Qualcomm has gone ahead and switched things up. Instead of having S1, S2, S3, and S4, from now on we’ll be using Snapdragon 200, 400, 600, and 800. The last two have just been announced.

Starting with the 800, it’s built using TSMC’s new 28 nanometer process called HPm. Think of it like a more efficient version of the 28 nanometer process that’s currently being used by the S4 and S4 Pro. The 800 has four Krait 400 processors that can go as high as 2.3 GHz. There’s also a new GPU called the Adreno 330 that’s twice as fast as the Adreno 320. The memory interface gets updated to 800 MHz LPDDR3 RAM, which is said to deliver 12.8 gigabits per second. On the wireless side, LTE speeds get bumped up to 150 megabits per second (maximum theoretical), and 802.11ac support (1 gigabit per second) gets added. The total package should be 75% faster than today’s fastest S4 Pro.

Now as for the 600, it can best be thought of as a lightly tweaked version of the S4 Pro. It has a faster memory interface, faster graphics processor, and the Krait architecture has been rejiggered to deliver more performance at equivalent clock speeds. Speaking about clocks, the Snapdragon 600 should hit 1.9 GHz. When all is said and done, the 600 should be 40% faster than the S4 Pro.

When will these chips come out? The Snapdragon 600 should be in retail devices on store shelves by the end of Q2 of this year. The Snapdragon 800 is going to take a little while longer.

If you want more information, we can’t recommend this article on AnandTech enough. There’s also the whole question of benchmarks. We obviously can’t run those just yet, but as soon as we get our hands on retail hardware, except some pretty charts from us.

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LG’s futuristic smart home appliances officially unveiled

Posted: 07 Jan 2013 10:50 PM PST

LG-smart-appliances

We may not be getting any announcement about LG's 5.5-inch 1080p smartphone at CES 2013, but as hinted before, the electronics giant is introducing a slew of connected home appliances. Keeping up with The Jetsons won't be too hard if you got LG's smart refrigerator, washing machine, cooking oven, and HOM-BOT – a vacuum cleaner that you can remotely start and steer.

LG Smart Refrigerator

What exactly makes LG's offering smarter? Aside from sporting an LCD display, LG's smart fridge also comes with a Smart Manager feature, which allows you to record and check food items stored along with their expiration dates, as well as getting recommended menus and recipes from the available ingredients based on your personal profiles.

LG-smart-fridge

With the help of your smartphone, you can input food item list by simply scanning the grocery receipts, or check for items that are almost running out when you're in the grocery store.  Other features and functions include digital photo albums, calendars, news reports and text memos.

LG Smart Washing Machine

Similar to the connected refrigerator, you can get updates on the operational status of the washing machine on your smartphone, such as whether your socks are still being washed or dried, as well as when the washing cycle is completed. The smart washing machine can self-diagnose problems, download new washing cycle programs, and more.

LG-smart-wash-machine

LG Smart Oven

Using LG's Smart Oven, budding chefs can easily check and change cooking settings via their smartphones. The oven can communicate with its smart refrigerator cousin for easy sending of recipe and automatic oven setting.  It also comes with LG's Infrared Grill technology, which helps it run more efficiently.

LG-smart-oven

LG Smart Vacuum Cleaner / HOM-BOT

The HOM-BOT definitely isn't your ordinary vacuum cleaner. Thanks to the embedded Smart Access feature, not only can you remotely start the vacuum cleaner via your mobile device, but you can also steer the HOM-BOT!  You see, it comes with an all-seeing “eye” of its own for remote navigation. Maybe it can double as a surveillance camera?

LG-smart-vacuum

If you’re strangely excited by these smart appliances like we are, you can check out the press release below for more details.

Show full PR text

LG SMART APPLIANCES FOR 2012 DELIVER CONNECTIVITY, EFFICIENCY THROUGH SMART THINQ™ TECHNOLOGIES

Device-to-Device Connectivity and Unique Home Energy Management System Enhance Efficiency in Time, Energy and Costs

Device-to-Device Connectivity and Unique Home Energy Management System Enhance Efficiency in Time, Energy and Costs

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 9, 2012 – LG Electronics (LG) today unveiled a new series of smart appliances at the 2012 International Consumer Electronics Show (booth #8204) that reflect the company's vision for a more connected, eco-friendly lifestyle. Centered on LG's proprietary Smart ThinQ™ technology, LG's new smart appliances are equipped with innovative device-to-device connectivity features and the LG Home Energy Management System (HeMS), opening up a new era in convenient and efficient home management.

"LG's direction in smart appliance development has been in pursuing technological advancements that will make consumers' lives more convenient and ultimately upgrade their quality of life," said Moon-bum Shin, CEO of LG Electronics Home Appliance Company. "Device-to-device connectivity with smartphones and among LG appliances is a new and exciting way for us to realize this goal, helping consumers handle housework in a smarter manner by saving time, money and energy."

LG has differentiated its smart appliances with its advanced and highly complementary technologies. These four core technologies – the Linear Compressor, the Inverter Direct Drive™, the Infrared Grill and the KOMPRESSOR® – enable superior performance. At the same time, Smart ThinQ™ technologies – Smart Manager, Smart Diagnosis™, Smart Access, Smart Adapt and Smart Grid – bring smart savings and enhanced convenience to consumers. Technology enthusiasts will notice that LG's Smart ThinQ™ technologies have evolved considerably since their introduction at CES 2011. For example, LG's smart refrigerators and smart washing machines are now connected to Smart TVs and smartphones, which enables convenient monitoring of the operational status of the two appliances*.

Device-to-Device Connectivity: Building a Smarter Home*

One of the most compelling features in this year's LG smart appliances is enhanced device-to-device connectivity, which enables LG's smart refrigerators and smart washing machines to be monitored from a Smart TV or smartphone. For instance, individuals can monitor the status of their laundry cycles from their TV screen without being physically present in the laundry room.

The Smart Refrigerator Gets Smarter with the Enhanced Smart Manager*

Built around the company's signature Linear Compressor, which comes with a 10-year manufacturer's limited warranty, LG's flagship smart French-door refrigerator is equipped with a full range of Smart ThinQ™ technologies. Key among them is Smart Manager, which transforms the refrigerator into a complete food management system. Consumers can use the refrigerator's LCD panel or their smartphones to check the food items stored inside, as well as their location and expiration date. Using the Smart Manager's Freshness Tracker, users can also enter various food items, such as eggs, milk and vegetables, and check their suggested expiration dates. Additionally, the refrigerator recommends dishes that can be cooked using the ingredients available in the refrigerator.

There are multiple ways to record the food items stored in the refrigerator including selecting icons from the panel or using voice recognition technology. Additionally, grocery receipts can be scanned using smartphones, allowing the refrigerator to automatically download the food item list. Barcodes can also be scanned with smartphones to input food items.

Smart Shopping is another new aspect of the Smart Manager feature. It offers online grocery shopping directly from the refrigerator's LCD panel or smartphone. A shopping list is created by selecting food items from the inventory, which will be loaded onto Smart Shopping by pressing the "Go Shopping" button. Consumers can purchase these food items from the refrigerator's LCD panel or smartphone, while items not on the list can be searched for and selected manually. These features eliminate the hassle of having to write down grocery shopping lists the old-fashioned way or the need to visit the grocery store, saving time and increasing convenience.

The Smart Manager also now includes LG's unique Health Manager feature, which recommends recipes and menus based on personal profiles that take into account factors such as an individual's age, gender, weight, height and Body Mass Index (BMI). The information is used to determine options that may be more suitable to the person's physical condition and might be particularly useful for consumers with medical conditions that require special diets, such as diabetes, high blood pressure or food allergies, and for those on a weight-loss program**. The Health Manager even recommends daily or weekly meal plans based on personal profiles, while also providing recipes for each dish. Should consumers wish to cook a recommended dish, they can select the dish and press "Send to Oven," which sends the necessary information to a LG Smart Oven and automatically arranges the proper oven settings.

The Smart Access feature lets users check the status of their LG appliances via smartphones, regardless of their geographic location. For refrigerators, consumers can check food items that are running low in quantity while they are at a grocery store. That can help reduce accidental double purchases and save money on groceries.

Meanwhile, LG's Smart Diagnosis™ feature helps customer service representatives to quickly and efficiently troubleshoot mechanical issues. Once the consumer contacts the LG service center by phone, a technician will direct her to press the "Smart Diagnosis™" button, which then triggers a series of signals that the service center uses to determine the faults and errors and whether a service call is required. In addition, consumers can be directly alerted through their smartphones about minor issues, such as when the door is left open or the ice-maker is switched off.

The refrigerator is also Smart Grid-ready. As local utility companies begin offering Smart Grid-compatible, differentiated energy-rate time slots, the refrigerator will be able to automatically readjust its temperature and function settings to take advantage of optimum energy rates on a daily basis, offering a smart energy-saving solution. In addition to the Smart Grid-ready feature, LG's smart refrigerator also offers the "Night Saving Mode," which reduces energy consumption for up to four hours at nighttime and a "Customize Saving Mode" that lowers energy use during periods pre-set by the user.

The smart refrigerator also offers useful and entertaining functions, such as access to digital photo albums, calendars, text memos and news reports. Additionally, a voice memo function is planned for the future.

A Smart Washing Machine with Wi-Fi Smart Diagnosis™*

Another highlight at CES 2012 is LG's smart washing machine, which incorporates Smart Diagnosis™, Smart Access, Smart Adapt and Smart Grid-ready features. Smart Diagnosis™ has undergone an impressive upgrade for the smart washing machine, an effort which resulted this year in Wi-Fi Certification for a washing machine from the Wi-Fi Alliance. This addition enables LG's washer to self-diagnose its problems via Wi-Fi connection. Should a problem, such as a water input issue, occur with the washer, Wi-Fi Smart Diagnosis™ quickly and efficiently helps troubleshoot, limiting costly, inconvenient service calls and in-home visits. Also, a downloadable smartphone application alerts consumers about less significant problems, such as when the door is left open.

Like the refrigerator, the washing machine uses Smart Access to keep owners connected regardless of their location. Consumers no longer need to worry when leaving the house with the washer running as Smart Access makes it possible to monitor the overall operational status of the washer and dryer, such as the stage of operation and remaining time. Certain functions, such as changing the pre-programmed wash time or adding fabric softner, can be adjusted remotely controlled and pop-up messages on the smartphone signal when the wash cycle is finished. In addition, consumers can check the washing status from their living room through a Smart TV. Meanwhile, Smart Adapt makes it possible to download new washing cycle programs, such as Super Rinse and Baby Sanitize, through smartphones or the washing machine's LCD panel.

Smart HOM-BOT:A Vacuum and So Much More*

The LG Smart HOM-BOT is a remotely controlled vacuum cleaner that uses the Smart Access feature to allow users to start their Smart HOM-BOT and monitor the vacuum's progress from remote locations. Techies will love its advanced control features, as the HOM-BOT can be steered via smartphones in a manner similar to a remote-control car. In turn, users can remotely roam their house while using the HOM-BOT's camera eye for navigation. Furthermore, while outside their homes, consumers can use a smartphone application to use their roving HOM-BOT to communicate with their family in any room.

In addition, the smart mapping navigation enabled by the robotic vacuum cleaner's triple eye camera helps LG's vacuum to clean smarter, faster and more efficiently. The Smart HOM-BOT is equipped with LG's innovative learning algorithm, which memorizes mapping information to calculate optimal paths for future cleaning sessions.

A Smarter Oven for Smarter Cooking*

LG's Smart Oven comes equipped with a suite of Smart ThinQ features, including Smart Access, Smart Adapt and Smart Diagnosis™, which opens up a whole new array of smarter cooking possibilities. Smart Access enables home chefs to monitor cooking settings, such as time and temperature, via their mobile devices. With Smart Adapt, users can send cooking time information by smartphone directly to the oven to make sumptuous dishes via the oven's auto-cooking function. Smart Diagnosis™ makes it easy to diagnose simple problems, using a smartphone application or through direct contact with the customer service center for quick and efficient diagnosis and troubleshooting.

The smart oven is also equipped with LG's unique Infrared Grill technology, a unique technology that helps cook food more efficiently and evenly. The Infrared Grill is another new way to enjoy convenient, gourmet cooking. The freestanding electric single oven is extremely large at 6.2 cubic feet, allowing consumers to cook large dishes with ease, a welcome addition for holiday meal preparations and when entertaining for large groups.

Extending the Smart Concept from Connectivity to Total Home Management*

LG's new Home Energy Management System (HeMS) is an ultra-intelligent companion to the Smart Grid technology that helps manage smart appliances, lighting and HVAC in a more power-efficient manner. Through a smart meter, HeMS collects energy usage data throughout a home. Consumers can monitor the electricity usage of each smart appliance by the hour, day, month or year; the overall energy consumption in a home; and the resulting costs. The collected data can be viewed anytime, anywhere through PCs and smartphones. HeMS even suggests ways through which overall energy consumption can be reduced, enlightening users with ways to save on their electricity bills, while doing their part in helping the environment.

For more information and product images, please visit LG's online press kit at www.LGnewsroom.com/ces2012./main.php

# # #

* Wireless Internet connection required and sold separately.

**The Heath Management feature is not a substitute for medical or healthcare advice. Users should consult a healthcare professional for any special dietary needs.

About LG Electronics, Inc.

LG Electronics, Inc. (KSE: 066570.KS) is a global leader and technology innovator in consumer electronics, mobile communications and home appliances, employing more than 93,000 people working in over 120 operations around the world. With 2010 global sales of KRW 55.8 trillion (USD 48.2 billion), LG comprises four business units – Home Entertainment, Mobile Communications, Home Appliance, and Air Conditioning & Energy Solutions. LG is one of the world's leading producers of flat panel TVs, mobile devices, air conditioners, washing machines and refrigerators. For more information, please visit www.LGnewsroom.com.

About LG Electronics Home Appliance Company

The LG Electronics Home Appliance Company is an innovator in the home appliance industry, dedicated to offering healthier and greener products, blending smart technology and trend-setting design and providing a complete solution for improving daily life. LG's insightful products, including refrigerators, washing machines, dishwashers, cooking appliances, vacuum cleaners, and built-in appliances, are designed to resonate with consumers around the world. LG's innovative technologies and convenient features, including the world's first interactive refrigerator, steam washing machine and combination oven and microwave, set new trends in the appliance industry, helping to establish LG as a global leader.

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Google on track to have over a million apps in the Play Store this June

Posted: 07 Jan 2013 10:29 PM PST

Look, I’m not going to lie to you, I really don’t care about how many apps are in one app store versus another app store. Now don’t get me wrong, this used to be quite an important metric just a few short years ago when people were wondering which platform had more users and which platform had more revenue potential for developers, but these days you can find pretty much anything you want on either iOS or Android. If you’re a RIM user or you’re one of the crazy people trying to get on-board the Windows Phone train, then yes, the number of apps available in your respectieve app store is significant. When and if those two platforms start gaining traction, then we’ll start the app store battles again, but until then … just forget about it.

There is one number though that’s bound to generate some headlines: one million. Will Apple’s iOS App Store be the first platform to break a million apps or will it be Google’s Play Store? According to data gathered by The Sociable, Google is on track to break the million barrier faster than Apple. When exactly will this happen? They say June, but again, it’s just a guess at this point.

Should Google or Apple publish the “one million apps available” press release first, you shouldn’t care about it either way. Some of you will and you’ll probably start trolling the opposing team. Please note that anyone I catch banging on their chest will get an evil stare from me and the rest of the Android Authority team. We all love Android here, in case you haven’t noticed, but being an Android fan doesn’t mean you have to spend your free time hurling insults at iPhone owners.

That kind of behavior is just plain not cool.

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More HTC Sense 5 screenshots hit the internet, and damn they look good

Posted: 07 Jan 2013 10:06 PM PST

We caused quite a bit of uproar yesterday when we said we weren’t huge fans of HTC Sense. Admittedly, the company does have quite a few fans out there, but just one look at their current financial situation shows that they don’t have as many as they need to stay healthy. But enough about that, let’s talk about the future. Yesterday we stumbled upon two images of what was alleged to be the next version of HTC’s Android skin, Sense. Today, courtesy of Pocketnow, we have a few more. We’re happy to say that the same clean lines are there, along with an updated homescreen that looks a bit something like what we saw in the HTC Rhyme. The most obvious question if of couse when will HTC formally announce their new software?

Let’s think about this logically. Mobile World Congress is next month. We think that a device that’s codenamed the “M7″ will be announced there. It’s set to be similar to the Butterfly/DNA, but have a better camera, and a design language that’s more polished than anything we’ve seen from HTC in the past. So could Sense 5 show up on the M7? Possibly, but the number 5 just bugs us a little bit. Shouldn’t it be reserved for the next version of Android? If so, does that mean HTC is going to do what Samsung did in 2012 and announce the M7 by holding their own event? Google I/O is in May this year. See where we’re going with this? HTC could launch Sense 5 on top of Android 5 either at Google’s event or shortly thereafter.

Yes, we know we sound like conspiracy theorists, but we can’t help but think deeply about HTC. They were the first company to produce an Android phone, they were the first company to make a Nexus, and for many of us, they’re a company that’ll never leave our hearts.

But given the choice, we’d rather own a Samsung. Maybe that’ll change this year.

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Polaroid makes the iM1836 official, anyone want an Android camera with interchangeable lenses?

Posted: 07 Jan 2013 09:41 PM PST

Polaroid has finally made their Android powered camera phone, the iM1836, official. The specs match up exactly with what the first leak said in mid-December. Let’s start with the camera. This thing packs a massive 18 megapixel sensor, making it one of the highest resolution Android devices we’ve ever seen. The lenses are interchangeable, but there’s a small catch. You have to buy them from Polaroid. You can use Micro Four Thirds (MFT) lenses, but you’re going to need an adapter. As for the screen, we hate to tell you this, but it’s only 3.5 inches diagnol, so don’t expect to make this your daily driver. Android 4.1 is on-board, but we’re not sure about the guts. What SoC is inside? How much RAM? What we do know however is that it’s going to cost $399 when it lands in Q1 2013.

Should you buy this thing? Without even reviewing the device, we’re going to say no. If you really care about imaging, then the best thing you can do right now is wait. The Galaxy Camera, arguably the best Android powered camera currently on the market, doesn’t produce images that are significantly better than the Galaxy S3. That’s got to make you wonder, how much better will the camera be in the Galaxy S4 when it gets announced in a few months? There’s also Mobile World Congress in February, what sort of awesome camera phones are we going to see there?

We think there’s a huge market potential for devices that look like cameras from the front, but from the back they’re just like any other Android phone. That being said, it’s early days. Remember how awkward the first Galaxy Note was, but then when the successor came out it was that much better? The same thing is likely going to happen to devices like the iM1836.

What do you guys thing, is this product category viable?

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Sony Xperia Z official: specs, features, pricing and release date

Posted: 07 Jan 2013 05:41 PM PST

sony-xperia-z-official-image-1

While we didn't expect Samsung to unveil its 2013 flagship device at CES, we certainly waited for Sony to announce its own high-end super Android phone at this year Las Vegas trade show.

And Sony delivered, presenting to the world a very interesting new device, the Xperia Z that was featured in so many rumors in the preceding weeks – you may know it as the Yuga.

Specs and Features

So what is the Xperia Z all about? We'll show you its most important features now that the handset is official.

  • 5-inch 1920 x 1080 Full HD Reality Display with Mobile BRAVIA Engine 2
  • 13-megapixel Fast Capture camera with Exmor RS for mobile, HDR video, Superior Auto and Noise Reduction to effortlessly capture razor sharp pictures and videos in any conditions
  • Dust and water resistant (IP55 & IP57) with a durable glass display
  • 1.5 GHz asynchronous quad-core Snapdragon S4 processor
  • 2GB RAM
  • microSD support
  • 4G LTE support
  • NFC support
  • Battery STAMINA mode improves standby time by at least 4 times
  • Android 4.1 Jelly Bean upgradeable to Android 4.2 "shortly after launch"
  • Size: 7.9mm thin

The device certainly look interesting, and we’re particularly impressed with that home button that’s placed on the side of the handset, not under the display as you would have expected. Is this an anti-patent action measure?

sony-xperia-z-official-image-2

Pricing and Release date

While we don't have pricing details for the Xperia Z at this time, we do know it's launching globally in Q1 2013 – one rumor did say the Xperia Z is going to be released a week after CES, but that doesn't appear to be the case yet. In fact, it looks like the phone will hit stores at some point in March.

In addition to the Xperia Z, a smaller Xperia ZL will also be available in "selected markets" and will launch around the same time.

Are you buying a Sony flagship smartphone this year?

Show full PR text

Introducing Xperia™ Z –the best of Sony in a premium smartphone

Full HD 5″ Reality Display with Mobile BRAVIA Engine 2 for super brightness and clarity
Sony’s media applications deliver rich user experiences and instant access to entertainment services
Easy and fast One-touch functions to wirelessly share music, photos and videos across devices
New stand-out Sony design with water and dust resistance

January 7th 2013, Las Vegas, USA – Sony Mobile Communications (“Sony Mobile”) today introduces its new flagship Android smartphone, Xperia Z. With a 5″ Full HD 1080p Reality Display, Snapdragon™ S4 Pro quad-core processor, 13 megapixel fast-capture camera and 4G LTE, Xperia Z has all the specifications expected from a premium smartphone. On top of this, it brings the best of Sony’s unique technology, content, design and connectivity to deliver rich user experiences. Xperia Z will launch globally in Q1 2013.

“With Xperia Z, we are bringing over half a century of innovation in TV, imaging, music, film and gaming to create a superphone experience that truly stands out,” said Kuni Suzuki, President and CEO, at Sony Mobile Communications. “With great specifications, Sony’s media applications and One-touch functions,

Xperia Z is well positioned for leadership in the smartphone market. By putting smartphones at the heart of our strategy, Sony is enabling people to create, enjoy and share content and experiences like never before.”

Intelligent Sony Technology
Xperia Z’s razor sharp Reality Display, powered by Mobile BRAVIA® Engine 2, brings Sony’s long-standing TV expertise to the smartphone and delivers an immersive viewing experience with super brightness and clarity. The smartphone shares capabilities with Sony digital cameras and features Exmor RS for mobile, the world’s first image sensor with HDR (High Dynamic Range) video for smartphones. HDR technology gives clear images against strong backlight, so users can capture razor sharp pictures and videos whatever the conditions.

Xperia Z also includes Battery STAMINA Mode that can improve the standby time by four times or more*by automatically shutting down battery-draining apps whenever the screen is off and starting them up again when the screen is back on.

Discover, enjoy and share entertainment with Sony’s media applications and One-touch functions

Sony media applications offer a consistent entertainment experience across a range of Sony devices. Pre-loaded on Xperia Z, the “WALKMAN”, Album and Movies apps, enable discovery of on-line and off-line content through a single access point with new ways to enjoy and share that content. The “WALKMAN” application provides access to all your downloaded music, a library of 18 million songs to explore from Music Unlimited and Facebook social integration. The Movies application gives consumers access to over 100,000 movies and TV series from Video Unlimited while the Album application enables easy access to Facebook friends’ photos as well as browsing photos by location.**

One-touch functions enable consumers to easily share music, photos and videos from their smartphone to an array of NFC-enabled Sony devices, including speakers, headphones and now TVs. With the new BRAVIA TV, also announced today, simply touch Xperia Z to the remote control of the TV to instantly enjoy your photos and videos on the big screen.

Two additions to Sony’s range of NFC-enabled headsets were also introduced today, the Stereo Bluetooth™ Headset SBH20 and the Wireless Headset DR-BTN200M. Touch Xperia Z to either headset and begin listening to tracks instantly.

Stand-out design and durability

Precision engineered with premium materials, Xperia Z introduces a unique OmniBalance design with subtly rounded edges and smooth reflective surfaces on all sides. Despite its slim 7.9mm body, Xperia Z is highly durable with tempered glass and anti-shatter film on the front and back, as well as the highest levels of dust and water resistance*** (IP55 and IP57) found in a premium smartphone.

In selected markets, a design variant of Xperia Z – Xperia ZL – will also be released in Q1 2013. Xperia ZL delivers the same immersive entertainment experiences as Xperia Z but in a smaller form factor.

Xperia Z and Xperia ZL will launch on Android 4.1 (Jelly Bean) and will be upgraded to 4.2 shortly after launch for the latest Android user experience.

Key features for Xperia Z

· 5″ 1080 x 1920p full HD Reality Display with Mobile BRAVIA® Engine 2
· 13MP Fast Capture camera with Exmor RS for mobile, HDR video, Superior Auto and Noise Reduction to effortlessly capture razor sharp pictures and videos in any conditions

· Dust and water resistant (IP55 & IP57) with a durable glass display
· 1.5 GHz asynchronous quad-core Snapdragon S4 processor with 2GB RAM

· Battery STAMINA mode improves standby time by at least 4 times

Related Posts

Android Phone Fans

Android Phone Fans


Ubuntu Phone image for Galaxy Nexus to be available for download late February

Posted: 07 Jan 2013 06:14 PM PST

The first question we had when Canonical showed Ubuntu for Phones off is “when can we get our hands on this.” At the time, we were only afforded a window of “in the coming weeks,” and which devices would get the treatment weren’t disclosed (though we had strong suspicion that the Galaxy Nexus would be one of them).

Well, it looks like Canonical is keeping its word as the company’s Alan Pope has reportedly confirmed a late February distribution date to OMG Ubuntu. As we suspected, since the Galaxy Nexus was the first public reference device shown off to the public then it will be the first device to get a flashable image. We want to assume that this will only apply to the unlocked HSPA+ version of the phone, of course, because Verizon and Sprint’s proprietary cellular code will create quite the obstacle.

That said, the source code will also be released so the fine developers around the Android community will do everything they can to make sure every Galaxy Nexus owner can get in on the fun. And who knows — perhaps some coding mastermind will find a way to get this onto other devices, as well.

Note that Canonical will distribute the OS in an unfinished state. A lot of stuff will work, but a lot might not be implemented or properly working right away. We can at least expect basic phone calling and messaging to work, though, so those looking to download it for laughs can probably use it as a daily driver if they really wanted to. We’ll be getting a closer look at this thing in Vegas very soon.

Sony Xperia Z & ZL Specs & Announcement

Posted: 07 Jan 2013 05:14 PM PST

Ahead of Sony’s Press Conference (which is underway now), we got our hands on the press specs of two Android phones which are just about to be announced: the Sony Xperia Z & Sony Xperia ZL. We’ll bring you as much info as we possibly can on the breaking story, with hands-on video if possible, but for now… revel in the Xperia glory.

Sony Xperia Z:

  • 5-inch Full HD 1080 x 1920 Reality Display with Mobile BRAVIA Engine 2
  • 13MP fast capture camera with Exmor RS for mobile & HDR video
  • Dust & water resistant (IP55 & IP57)
  • 1.5 GHz asynchronous quad-core Snapdragon S4 processor with 2GB
  • Battery STAMINA mode improves standby time by at least four times
  • One-touch mirroring
  • 4G LTE for superfast entertainment
Sony Xperia ZL:
  • 5-inch Full HD 1920 x 1080 Reality Display with Mobile BRAVIA Engine 2
  • 13MP fast capture camera with Exmor RS for mobile & HDR video
  • 1.5GHz quad-core Snapdragon S4 processor with 2GB RAM
  • Maximized display with the highest ratio of screen to phone size
  • Battery STAMINA mode improves Standby time by at least four times
  • One-touch mirroring
  • 4G LTE for superfast entertainment

Stay tuned for more as we update this story!

Until then visit the Sony Xperia Z Forum and the Sony Xperia ZL Forum!

Netgear tries its hand at Google TV with NeoTV PRIME; introduces home monitoring and screen mirroring products

Posted: 07 Jan 2013 04:28 PM PST

It looks like Google will get another name into the Google TV world as Netgear has decided to release a product with the internet TV operating system. The company has announced the NeoTV PRIME, a set-top streaming box that delivers the same Google TV experience we’ve always been used to, except with Netgear’s expertise in media streaming hardware. It’s an exciting marriage that should give Google’s struggling platform a decent boost in conjunction with other OEMs stepping into the fold.

Like most Google TV devices, the NeoTV PRIME comes with a dual-sided remote control — one side will give you traditional video and navigation controls, while the other side houses a mini keyboard for typing. Netgear’s controller is quite nice with dedicated buttons for Netflix, YouTube, Amazon Instant Video, Vudu and more.

Netgear makes use of aVia, a media playing app that can find photos, audio and video from any form of digital storage, including your Android phones and tablets. At the end of the day it’s yet another Google TV device, but at $130 it’s worth giving it a shot if you’ve been looking for something quite recent. The device is supposed to be available right now in major retailers across the United States so be sure to check out your local Best Buy or Walmart if you’re interested. Find the full press release below.

That wasn’t all Netgear came to Vegas with, though. The company introduced a night vision add-on camera which is compatible with many of its NeoTV products. The camera can stream its feed to an Android device so you can monitor your couch (or wherever your TV might happen to be pointed at) from afar.

They also introduced the Push 2 TV wireless display adapter, a plug-and-play adapter that’ll allow you to mirror your smartphone, tablet, laptop and more right to your television. It’s not unlike Intel’s WiDi or the proprietary adapters from the likes of Samsung and HTC, but this product is device agnostic so there is a lot more in the compatibility department. Push2TV supports both WiFi and Miracast so if any of your products support these two technologies you’ll be able to stream your screen all the same.

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 7, 2013 /PRNewswire/ – NETGEAR®, Inc. (NASDAQGM: NTGR) (www.netgear.com), a global networking company that delivers innovative products to consumers, businesses and service providers, announced today at the International Consumer Electronics Show (CES®) the new NETGEAR NeoTV® PRIME with Google TV (GTV100) streaming player. As the newest addition to the NETGEAR family of streaming players for connected home theater entertainment, NeoTV PRIME enables you to easily find what you love to watch —whether it’s on live TV, streaming entertainment, apps, or the web— using one small NeoTV player.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130107/SF37462)

Building on the features of NETGEAR NeoTV, NeoTV PRO and NeoTV MAX family of streaming players, the new NeoTV PRIME with Google TV extends your entertainment experience beyond just streaming video or even basic TV viewing. NeoTV PRIME opens up the world of apps from Google Play, delivering access to a growing library of entertainment including movies, TV shows, and music from streaming services such as Netflix, Amazon Instant Video, HBO Go, Crackle, Flixter, Rhapsody, Pandora and many more. Google Play gives you movies and new releases in HD, music albums, and apps designed specifically for the TV.

NeoTV PRIME supports playback of your personal media from external USB hard drives and home media servers. With the pre-installed aVia media player app on NeoTV PRIME, you can play, manage and share your videos, music, and photos from any of your digital storage and Google Android devices to your big screen TV. Thanks to the ‘My Media’ quick-start button on the NeoTV PRIME remote control, you easily access the media player app with the mere push of a button.

“Today, more than ever, consumers have to go back and forth through a number of home theater devices to find the entertainment they want to watch,” said Damir Skripic, product line manager for connected entertainment at NETGEAR. “With your NeoTV PRIME, you can access apps, live TV programming, and the web through one home theater device that continues to learn as you watch.”

NeoTV PRIME with Google TV offers PrimeTime, an app that helps you find and watch your favorite movies and TV shows all in one place, whether they are on live TV, an app, or the web. The remote control has a keyboard that makes it fast and easy to search for the shows that you want. With the press of a button, PrimeTime finds content recommended for you by learning what you like to watch and organizes it so you don’t need to scroll through the numerous pages of a live TV guide, or browse different apps to find the right movie.

The Chromebrowser offers access to the entire web directly on the TV, while Search enables you to look across multiple sources simultaneously to find your favorite entertainment. Even more, with the picture-in-picture feature, you can surf the web while watching live TV, all at the same time.

Thanks to NeoTV PRIME with Google TV, it’s never been easier to watch YouTube on your big-screen TV. Furthermore, when you update the YouTube mobile app on your Android smartphone or tablet, you will see a new button within the YouTube mobile app making it possible to send videos from your mobile devices to NeoTV PRIME with a single tap. Find a video on the YouTube app for Android, click the TV icon that appears on the app when your Android device and NeoTV PRIME are connected to the same WiFi network, and the video will play instantly.

NeoTV PRIME comes with a two-sided remote control, featuring a touchpad and directional pad on one side and a full-featured QWERTY keyboard on the other, giving you fast and easy control of all your applications and helping you to effortlessly search across the web, apps and television listings.

Pricing and Availability

The NETGEAR NeoTV PRIME with Google TV (GTV100) is available now in the United States from major retailers in stores and online at a suggested retail price of USD $129.99.

More Information

Visit www.netgear.com/gtv100 to learn more about NeoTV PRIME with Google TV. For information on other NETGEAR connected entertainment products, please visit www.netgear.com/stream.

NETGEAR launched a number of new WiFi, networking and media streaming products today during a press conference held in conjunction with the opening of CES in Las Vegas. Read the other CES-related announcements from NETGEAR atnetgear.com/about/press-releases/.

About NETGEAR, Inc.

NETGEAR (NASDAQGM: NTGR) is a global networking company that delivers innovative products to consumers, businesses and service providers. For consumers, the company makes high performance, dependable and easy to use home networking, storage and digital media products to connect people with the Internet and their content and devices. For businesses, NETGEAR provides networking, storage and security solutions without the cost and complexity of big IT. The company also supplies top service providers with retail proven, whole home solutions for their customers. NETGEAR products are built on a variety of proven technologies such as wireless, Ethernet and Powerline, with a focus on reliability and ease-of-use. NETGEAR products are sold in approximately 25,000 retail locations around the globe, and through approximately 40,000 value-added resellers. The company’s headquarters are in San Jose, Calif., with additional offices in over 25 countries. NETGEAR is an ENERGY STAR® partner. More information is available at www.NETGEAR.com or by calling (408) 907-8000. Connect with NETGEAR at twitter.com/NETGEAR and www.facebook.com/NETGEAR.

©2013 NETGEAR, Inc.  NETGEAR, the NETGEAR logo, and NeoTV are registered trademarks of NETGEAR, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries in the United States and/or other countries. Android, Chrome, Google Play, Google TV and YouTube are trademarks or registered trademarks of Google Inc. Other brand names mentioned herein are for identification purposes only and may be trademarks of their respective holder(s). Information is subject to change without notice. All rights reserved.

Safe Harbor Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 for NETGEAR, Inc.: This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Specifically, statements concerning NETGEAR’s business and the expected performance characteristics, specifications, reliability, market acceptance, market growth, specific uses, user feedback and market position of NETGEAR’s products and technology are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Safe Harbor. These statements are based on management’s current expectations and are subject to certain risks and uncertainties, including, without limitation, the following: the actual price, performance and ease of use of NETGEAR’s products may not meet the price, performance and ease of use requirements of customers; product performance may be adversely affected by real world operating conditions; failure of products may under certain circumstances cause permanent loss of end user data; new viruses or Internet threats may develop that challenge the effectiveness of security features in NETGEAR’s products; the ability of NETGEAR to market and sell its products and technology; the impact and pricing of competing products; and the introduction of alternative technological solutions. Further information on potential risk factors that could affect NETGEAR and its business are detailed in the Company’s periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including, but not limited to, those risks and uncertainties listed in the section entitled “Part II – Item 1A. Risk Factors,” pages 46 through 65, in the Company’s quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the fiscal quarter ended September 30, 2012, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 6, 2012. NETGEAR undertakes no obligation to release publicly any revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

(Logo:  http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20030730/NETGEARLOGO)
PR Newswire (http://s.tt/1y4OD)

Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 headed for Verizon [VIDEO]

Posted: 07 Jan 2013 02:47 PM PST

We’re live at Samsung’s press conference in Las Vegas where the company has just announced it would be sending its Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 to Verizon’s store shelves. You can expect 4G LTE in tow, of course, as well lesser data radios for those areas without coverage. Other than Big Red’s super-fast data antennae this will be the same Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 we’ve come to know and love.

The device will launch with Jelly Bean out of the box, and supports Samsung’s improved multi-view. Specs include a 10.1 inch display with Wacom digitizer support, a 1.4GHz quad-core processor, a 5 megapixel rear camera with a 2 megapixel shooter on the front, 2GB of RAM and more.

Samsung said the device would be headed to stores “this month,” but didn’t offer a specific date or any price points. We imagine Verizon will take care of sending that information out soon enough, though. And, hey, at least we know the wait won’t be long. Anyone going to spring for one of these?

SAMSUNG MOBILE UNVEILS 4G LTE-ENABLED SAMSUNG GALAXY NOTE™ 10.1 wITH VERIZON WIRELESS

 

Portable, lightweight tablet offers true multitasking, interactive entertainment and creative capabilities with LTE connectivity

 

LAS VEGAS, NV – January 7, 2013  From the 2013 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES), Samsung Telecommunications America (Samsung Mobile), the No. 1 mobile phone provider in the United States and the No. 1 smartphone provider worldwide1, today announced the Samsung Galaxy Note™ 10.1 will be available on the Verizon Wireless 4G LTE Mobile Broadband network in the coming weeks.

 

The Galaxy Note 10.1 optimizes productivity with multiscreen viewing and advanced S Pen functionality, offers entertainment features at home and on-the-go, and allows for creativity through S Pen-specific applications.

 

MULTITASKING & PRODUCTIVITY

The Galaxy Note 10.1 is the ideal tool to be more efficient. The multiscreen feature on the Galaxy Note 10.1 gives users the ability to effortlessly utilize two different applications side-by-side simultaneously for true and easy multitasking. Users can view Web pages or videos, or launch other applications while writing or sketching ideas with the S Pen on the other half of the screen without having to toggle back and forth between apps.

 

Polaris® Office provides robust word processing, spreadsheet and presentation capabilities on the Galaxy Note 10.1, and the S Pen support makes it a snap to mark up and annotate documents. Additionally, the Galaxy Note 10.1 is available with Kno education software available for K-12 and high education students. The e-textbook software allows Galaxy Note 10.1 users to download thousands of interactive textbooks.

 

ENTERTAINMENT

 

The Galaxy Note 10.1 is also the perfect living room companion. The Galaxy Note 10.1 features Samsung Smart Remote, which transforms the device into a universal remote control that can control an entire home entertainment system and even recommend programs. With Smart Remote, users can easily discover new TV shows and movies, and change the channel directly from the tablet.

 

The Galaxy Note 10.1 carries over several features first introduced on the Samsung Galaxy S III smartphone, including:

  • AllShare® Play enables users to seamlessly pass content from the Galaxy Note 10.1 to other Samsung devices. AllShare Play automatically notifies the Galaxy Note 10.1 of other devices on the same network that are ready to receive video files (Samsung HDTVs, mobile tablets, laptops and other consumer electronic devices).Users can also remotely access files from devices on other networks.
  • Pop up Play – Galaxy Note 10.1 users can watch side-loaded video content while operating any application in full-screen, background view at the same time, providing a "picture in picture" experience.
  • Group Cast allows users to share and collaborate on documents, presentations or images in real-time with multiple friends or co-workers without loading the file separately.

 

CREATIVITY

Creativity is taken to a new level with the intuitive S Pen that boasts 1,024 levels of pressure sensitivity. The S Pen is embedded directly into a slot in the Galaxy Note 10.1, which activates a taskbar with quick access to optimized S Pen apps such as S Note™, Adobe® Photoshop® Touch, Polaris Office and Kno.

 

The S Note application on the Galaxy Note 10.1 gives users the ability to combine notes and sketches with other digital content in ready-to-use templates. S Note also features productivity tools such as Shape Match, which converts hand-drawn shapes into perfect versions instantly, and Formula Match, which translates hand-written formulas into type and solves them with the Wolfram Alpha search engine.

 

Preloaded with Adobe Photoshop Touch, Galaxy Note 10.1 users can utilize popular Photoshop Touch features such as layers, selection tools, adjustments and filters to customize and edit images, remove people or objects from a photo, or blend two photos together. Photoshop Touch is integrated with Adobe Creative Cloud that gives users free access to file syncing and sharing features and 2 GB of storage space. User's files can be synched to the Creative Cloud and opened in Photoshop Touch on the desktop or online for further refinement.

 

HARDWARE PERFORMANCE & CONNECTIVITY

The Galaxy Note 10.1 boasts a brilliant touchscreen display, allowing customers to watch movies, view pictures and play games that come to life in high-definition (1280×800). The Galaxy Note 10.1 runs on the Android™ 4.1 operating system and is equipped with a 1.4 GHz quad-core processor that allows users to surf the internet at blazing speeds using the Verizon Wireless 4G LTE network.  Measuring just 8.9 millimeters thin (less than half an inch) the Galaxy Note 10.1 weighs only 597 grams (roughly 21 oz.), making this tablet one of the most portable, premium and stylish tablets available. The device also includes a 5-megapixel main camera and a 1.9-megapixel front-facing camera.

 

ENTERPRISE READY

The Galaxy Note 10.1 is enterprise-ready and SAFE™ (Samsung for Enterprise) out of the box, meaning that enterprises across multiple industries can fully utilize these phones for business, including emerging Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) programs. Samsung SAFE smartphones and tablets provide stronger security to corporate employees using IT policy management through Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync (EAS), top-tier, multi-vendor Mobile Device Management (MDM) and Virtual Private Network (VPN) support, as well as on device encryption (ODE). In addition, it provides the most extensive Software Development Kit (SDK) to Solution Partners, which allows them to develop differentiated solutions on Samsung devices. This security-oriented SDK support applies to horizontal and various vertical solutions.

 

Editor's Note: The Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 will be on display at CES 2013 in the Samsung booth (Las Vegas Convention Center, Central Hall, Booth #12004).

 

# # #

Samsung Mobile is the No. 1 mobile phone provider in the United States according to Strategy Analytics, North America Handset Vendor Marketshare, Q2 2012.  Samsung Electronics Company is the No. 1 smartphone provider worldwide according to Strategy Analytics Global Smartphone Vendor Market Share by Region: Q2 2012.

 

Samsung, Galaxy S, Galaxy Note, and TecTile are trademarks of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.  Android is a trademark of Google Inc.  Other company names, product names and marks mentioned herein are property of their respective owners and may be trademarks or registered trademarks.

 

SAFE Disclaimer: Disclaimer of Warranties:  EXCEPT AS OTHERWISE PROVIDED IN THEIR STANDARD END USER LICENSE AND WARRANTY, TO THE FULL EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD., SAMSUNG TELECOMMUNICATIONS AMERICA, LLC, AND THEIR AFFILIATES (COLLECTIVELY REFERRED TO HEREIN AS THE "SAMSUNG ENTITIES") EXPRESSLY DISCLAIM ANY AND ALL WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING ANY WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, INTEROPERABILITY OR NON-INFRINGEMENT, WITH RESPECT TO INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SECURITY PROTECTION, SAFE™ DEVICES AND APPLICATIONS TESTED WITH SAFE™ DEVICES. IN NO EVENT SHALL THE SAMSUNG ENTITIES BE LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, PUNITIVE, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OF ANY KIND WHATSOEVER WITH RESPECT TO INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SECURITY PROTECTION, SAFE™ DEVICES OR APPLICATIONS TESTED WITH SAFE™ DEVICES. In addition, information technology security protection will be affected by features or functionality associated with, among other things the e-mail platform, master data management, and virtual private network solutions selected by the software provider, solution provider or user.  Choice of an e-mail, master data management, and virtual private network solution is at the sole discretion of the software provider, solution provider or user and any associated effect on information technology security protection is solely the responsibility of the software provider, solution provider or user. For complete statement of limited warranty, please refer to www.samsung.com/us/safe, available on the web and where Samsung smartphone and Galaxy Tab™ devices are sold.

 

About Samsung Telecommunications America

Samsung Telecommunications America, LLC, (Samsung Mobile) a Dallas-based subsidiary of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., researches, develops and markets wireless handsets, wireless infrastructure and other telecommunications products throughout North America. For more information, please visit www.samsung.com.

 

About Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. is a global leader in consumer electronics and the core components that go    into them. Through relentless innovation and discovery, we are transforming the worlds of televisions, smartphones, personal computers, printers, cameras, home appliances, medical devices, semiconductors and LED solutions. We employ 227,000 people across 75 countries with annual sales exceeding US$143 billion. Our goal is opening new possibilities for people everywhere. To discover more, please visit www.samsung.com.

Huawei announces 6.1-inch Ascend Mate and 5-inch Ascend D2

Posted: 07 Jan 2013 01:46 PM PST

The days of Huawei as a manufacturer of low-tier phones are officially over, as the company today revealed not one but two quad-core Android powerhouses. The Huawei Ascend Mate (above) and Huawei Ascend D2 (below) , which feature displays measuring in at 6.1 and 5 inches respectively, both run Android 4.1 and are a far cry from the sort of devices the Chinese company was unveiling only a few short years ago.

The latest Ascend models continue a trend that began with the Huawei Ascend P1 and Ascend D Quad, putting an emphasis on design and performance. The Ascend Mate, which boasts the biggest screen on a device billed as a smartphone that we have ever seen, and also carries an 8MP camera.

Speaking of cameras, Huawei is putting a new emphasis on imaging technology. The Ascend D2 carries a 13MP camera and f/2.2 aperture. The sensor is capable of HDR video recording. Also emphasized is battery life and performance among the new models. The D2 carries a 3000mAh battery while the Mate holds a whopping 4000mAh within. Huawei claims two days of use on a single charge for that device.

Finally, Huawei has made sure their latest phones are resistant to all the dangers that may befall our beloved handsets, including dust, water, and falls from height. The displays have been engineered with technology that can sense touch through gloves.

All things considered, there is little reason to not be impressed with what Huawei has shown this year at CES. Based on the limited showing of other manufacturers so far, we the Ascend Mate and Ascend D2 might just be some of the best handsets of the show. We can’t wait to get some hands-on time at Hauwei’s booth.

[via Huawei 1, 2]

 

Alcatel announces three new smartphones at CES

Posted: 07 Jan 2013 01:45 PM PST

The folks at Alcatel came to Vegas to prove that there’s still life in their smartphone aspirations, and have decided to announce three decent-looking phones for the public to drool over. The OEM announced the ONE TOUCH Idol, ONE TOUCH Idol Ultra and the ONE TOUCH Scribe HD.

The Idol Ultra looks to claim the “world’s thinnest smartphone” tag, a title which changes hands quite often in this day and age. Coming in at just 6.45mm thin, the Idol Ultra features a 4.7 inch HD display, a 1.2GHz dual-core processor, an 8 megapixel camera with 1080p HD video recording and will run Android Jelly Bean to start.

 

The One Touch Idol is a smidgen thicker than the Idol Ultra, and it comes in at a weight of just 3.88 ounces. The specs are quite similar to the Idol Ultra with a 4.7 inch IPS display, a dual-core processor, an 8 megapixel HD camera, a 2 megapixel front camera and Android Jelly Bean. The device will come in brushed metallic finishes so it should feel like a premium experience.

The One Touch Scribe HD is really interesting, though. It boasts a 5 inch HD display (resolution unknown) and is powered by MediaTek’s quad-core MT6589 chipset, has an 8 megapixel HD camera, a 720p webcam on the front and Android Jelly Bean.

Alcatel has a lot of ground to make up if it wants to come within reach of the likes of Samsung, Motorola and HTC, but if you needed a line of smartphones to start a journey with I’d say this is a pretty good one to get behind. Stay tuned as we look to get hands on with all of these new wares, and read on for full press details.

World's Slimmest Smartphone, ALCATEL ONE TOUCH Idol Ultra, Unveiled at 2013 Consumer Electronic Show

Las Vegas, Nevada (Consumer Electronic Show) – January 7, 2013 – TCL Communication, the leading global designer and manufacturer of ALCATEL ONE TOUCH branded mobile devices, today announced the brands 2013 smartphone lineup, including the world's slimmest smartphone, the ONE TOUCH Idol Ultra and the first phone to feature the new MediaTek MT6589 quad-core chipset, the ScribeHD.

"The Alcatel ONE TOUCH brand has grown exponentially since entering the U.S. market eight years ago," said Nicolas Zibell, President, Americas & Pacific for ALCATEL ONE TOUCH. "And with the launch of our new smartphone collection we plan to take things to the next level."

ONE TOUCH Idol Ultra

The ONE TOUCH Idol Ultra smartphone is the thinnest smartphone yet. The device breaks current market records at 6.45mm thin. Performance is not compromised in this design with features such as a stunning 4.7'' HD AMOLED display, a 1.2GHz dual-core processor, 8MP camera that captures 1080p video, and running on Android Jelly Bean.

ONE TOUCH Idol

In the same product line, the ONE TOUCH Idol also breaks current records, weighing in at 110 grams (3.88 oz) making it the lightest smartphone in its category. The device's dual-core processor and Android platform provides a feature-rich experience and supports a large, bright 4.7" IPS display, 8MP camera and 2MP front camera, running on Android Jelly Bean and offered in premium brushed metallic finishes.

"The ONE TOUCH Idol device series represents a breakthrough in technology," said Alain Lejeune, Head of Research and Development for ALCATEL ONE TOUCH. "We've pushed the barriers on design, resulting in devices that offer the perfect balance between ultra-slim form factor, large display, outstanding performance, and rich user experience, while keeping the devices affordably priced to consumers."

ONE TOUCH Scribe HD

The ONE TOUCH SCRIBE HD introduces new creative tools for personal expression and productivity. The 5″ HD smartphone is first to debut the new MediaTek MT6589 quad-core chipset, providing faster Internet performance, smoother user-experience to simultaneously run power-hungry apps & games, along with premium multimedia & graphics capabilities. Beyond running a quad-core CPU, the ONE TOUCH Scribe HD also supports 4G speeds, 8MP camera plus 720p HD front camera, and operates on Android Jelly Bean.

A perfect blend of technology and design, these phones offer both form and function and are available in a wide collection of fresh and trendy colors. Additionally the company will be showcasing the exciting and colorful ONE TOUCH POP series of smartphones that redefine simplicity, as well as a series of thinner, sharper and faster tablets and new innovative connectivity devices.

Nokia CEO Stephen Elop might pee pants, launch Android phone

Posted: 07 Jan 2013 01:25 PM PST

A couple years ago, Nokia CEO Stephen Elop said they wouldn’t use Android because it was like being a Finnish boy that pees in his pants to stay warm throughout the winter. The latest rumors suggest the company might do exactly that and now further speculation is being made based on a comment Elop made himself that apparently leave the Android door open (and zipper down?).

"In the current ecosystem wars we are using Windows Phone as our weapon. But we are always thinking about what's coming next, what will be the role of HTML 5, Android… Today we are committed and satisfied with Microsoft, but anything is possible."

It was one of our 12 predictions for Android in 2013: Nokia ends Microsoft partnership and embraces Android. Sure it sounded like a long shot — what with Nokia CEO Stephen Elop’s harsh words about the Android platform. But it seems lackluster sales and a not-so-bright future could signal the end of their exclusivity agreement with Microsoft.

Nokia’s sword is definitely getting duller and turning to Android may be their last hope at giving the company their edge back. The Nokia 920 running stock Android 4.2 Jelly Bean is a mighty fine proposition and Android could always use another player entering the market. It’s no fun having Samsung dominate the industry.

Naysayers will point to the comment and say a Nokia Android phone is hogwash, claiming a high profile company exec needs to maintain neutrality to some degree; playing it safe is a classic PR move. That luxury would normally be granted, but when you’ve likened an operating system to pants peeing, and then later to decry said pants peeing platform, you’ve got to wonder if that Microsoft Gerber 8 did something to baby Nokia’s belly.

If Stephen Elop and Nokia do enter the Android space, I’ll welcome them with open arms. After all, I am a huge Billy Madison fan:

And if peeing in your pants is cool… I hope to consider Nokia as Miles Davis.

[via WinSource]

Panasonic TV Touchpen allows big-screen doodling on your Android’s pics (Where’s GTV?)

Posted: 07 Jan 2013 12:38 PM PST

For Android fans, Panasonic didn’t have the most exciting press conference. In fact, this year’s CES is shaping to be big for the television industry with mobile stepping a bit out of the limelight. Panasonic announced a full range of products – from beauty and hair care appliances to televisions and cameras – but the most interesting announcements came on the software side.

Take this video demo, for example, where Panasonic demonstrates their new TV Touchpen feature:

(Best video moment: 20-second mark where a “let’s shake hands” gets confused for a “ehrmagerd gimme muh iPad”)

While not Android-specific and not ground breaking, I found it cool enough to share. And I think the non-story here is a pretty big story itself. Google TV has failed to gain traction. Android-based gaming devices are currently the hot thing, with the announcement of NVIDIA Shield and the imminent release of OUYA. But television manufacturers are largely reluctant to hop onboard the Android bandwagon.

Instead, TV manufacturers are banding together to continue development of their own ecosystems and services. Whereas Android was able to consolidate and unify an incredibly broad mobile ecosystem that previously refused to adapt, the television industry may be looking on, unwilling to give up control to Android.  I can’t say I blame them… once that happens, Android is pretty much in the TV driver’s seat.

Above is Panasonic’s new MyScreen feature that allows each member of the family to have their own start screen. This is a feature recently offered by other home entertainment solutions, most recently the Nintendo Wii U. It almost seems like the battle for mobile os over, won by Apple and Google with Microsoft clinging on; the next tech war frontier is the television, and before the big guys go from a gaze to stare, the TV makers are putting a stake in their ground.

If all the TV makers were able to band together and make it happen, I’d be enthused. But the ecosystem is still fractured, preventing developers from producing far reaching solutions, which in the end limits the speed of innovation and value to consumers. Take for example this “innovative” app for the Home Shopping Network (HSN) available on Panasonic’s new Smart TVs:

This is disappointing for a few reasons:

  • They chose this app of all the options to showcase their product
  • It’s basically an on-demand “spam-yourself-with-shopping” catalog and strays from the reasons HSN and QVC are successful in the first place (the concept of “live TV” and limited quantities/deals)
  • The UI is horribly disgusting and outdated… and that’s being generous

So will HSN make this half-willed attempt at an app on a bunch of different provider’s television systems? Wouldn’t HSN, Panasonic’s customers, and consumers all be better off if HSN could focus on one platform (say… Android?) and focus on creating one app to work across many TVs that was actually… good?

Panasonic has some incredibly compelling products at CES 2013 and I’m eager to see them on the show floor, but I can’t help but see the comparisons and parallels of the mobile industries former challenges and television’s current challenges. The next several CES events could very well be focused on the tech battle for the television and seamless home entertainment for the entire family.

Based on the way my words project, I assume you’ve understood my opinion. Now I’d like to hear yours.

AT&T announces Pantech Discover, coming January 11th for $50

Posted: 07 Jan 2013 12:16 PM PST

Amid all the crazy CES happenings, AT&T saw fit to sneak this presser into the busy news day. The Pantech Discover will be headed to America’s second biggest carrier starting January 11th, and will cost you just $50. This price point may lead you to believe the Pantech Discover doesn’t have much to offer under the hood, but the truth of the matter is that this is one impress smartphone.

The device features a 4.8 inch 1280×720 display, a 12 megapixel camera with 1080p HD video recording, a 1.5GHz dual-core processor, 1GB of RAM, 16GB of internal storage, 2,100mAh battery, NFC and more. Software wise, we know this thing will come with at least Android 4.0 as the older Pantech Flex does, but we aren’t 100% sure. We’ll look to get more information about the version of Android, but we imagine those details were left out of the press release for a reason.

No matter which exact version of Android it has, though, you can expect to find the same Easy Experience mode that was featured on the Pantech Flex. This feature allows you to switch between a more traditional, customizable Android experience and a simplified experience for those new to Android. I reviewed Easy Experience mode a while ago, and while I’m personally too advanced for it to be satisfying I can see how an inexperienced user would love it. Read on for full press details.

DALLAS, Jan. 7, 2013/PRNewswire/ – Kicking off 2013 with one of Pantech’s most impressive Android smartphones to date, AT&T* announces the Pantech Discover™, available for $49.99** with a two-year agreement, in all AT&T channels beginning Jan. 11.  Pantech Discover will be the first AT&T smartphone pre-loaded with the AT&T DriveMode® application, an app designed to help prevent texting while driving.

A 4G LTE smartphone, the sleek Discover boasts a large 4.8-inch HD display (1280 x 720) and an impressive 12.6-megapixel camera with 4X zoom, as well as the ability to record and playback video in HD 1080p (1920 x 1080) at 30 frames per second.  The Discover’s dual 3D surround sound speakers provide a rich audio experience, ideal for listening to music and watching movies, while the built-in near field communication (NFC) technology allows users to share content, read smart tags, or pay for goods and services right from their phone.  Packed with high tech features for an affordable price, the Discover provides tremendous value, fast data speeds, and high performance to entertainment seekers and business professionals alike.

The Discover features AT&T DriveMode®, an app that helps curb texting and driving .  The app can be set-up to automatically send a customizable reply to incoming messages once a vehicle starts moving 25 mph. The auto-reply message is similar to an “out-of-office alert” and can reply to texts, emails and wireless callers letting your friends know that you are driving and unable to respond. The app will automatically send all calls directly to voicemail; however, the user has the option to create an “allow list” or it can also be turned off manually at any time if the user needs to make a call immediately. ***

“The Pantech Discover combines a feature-packed experience – complete with a 12.6-megapixel camera and HD display –  with a cost-effective price point, giving AT&T customers yet another strong option in our 4G LTE portfolio,” said Jeff Bradley , senior vice president- Devices, AT&T.  ”AT&T is dedicated to educating customers about the dangers of texting while driving and providing real solutions to help prevent the behavior.  With DriveMode pre-loaded on the Discover, we hope that users will be less likely to text and drive.”

First announced for AT&T on the Pantech Flex in September 2012, Pantech’s exclusive Easy Experience and Standard Experience modes, are also available on the Discover. The Easy Experience mode prioritizes customers’ apps on the home screen in a clearly organized and easy-to-read format. Customers can easily switch between Easy Experience and the Standard Experience, a classic Android format available for users who prefer to access Discover’s wide range of features – social media, video, email – in a highly customizable interface.

In addition, the Discover is a great option for business users as it comes with full VPN and EAS support, plus device encryption for secure access to corporate email and intranets.  Its 1.5 GHz dual-core processor, 16 GB on-board memory plus SwiftKey app allow for maximum efficiency, while its 2,100 mAh battery makes it easier to be productive all day.

“Pantech is taking 2013 by storm with the launch of Discover,” said Gary Cherner , vice president of marketing and sales at Pantech. “By launching products at very competitive price points, Pantech is continuing to prove that high quality smartphones don’t need to come with a high price tag.”

AT&T customers have access to the nation’s largest 4G network , covering 288 million people. AT&T’s 4G LTE network covers more than 170 million people.****

More information on the Pantech Discover can be found at http://www.pantechusa.com/discover .

*AT&T products and services are provided or offered by subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. under the AT&T brand and not by AT&T Inc.

** Requires 2-yr wireless agreement with qualified voice and data plans or Mobile Share.  Other charges and restrictions apply.

***Data and text messaging charges may apply for download and app usage. Standard messaging rates apply to auto-reply messages. AT&T DriveMode is free to AT&T customers only. Compatible device required.

**** 4G speeds not available everywhere. Limited 4G LTE availability in select markets. LTE is a trademark of ETSI. Learn more at att.com/network.

About AT&T

AT&T Inc. (NYSE: T) is a premier communications holding company and one of the most honored companies in the world . Its subsidiaries and affiliates – AT&T operating companies – are the providers of AT&T services in the United States and internationally. With a powerful array of network resources that includes the nation’s largest 4G network, AT&T is a leading provider of wireless, Wi-Fi, high speed Internet, voice and cloud-based services. A leader in mobile Internet, AT&T also offers the best wireless coverage worldwide of any U.S. carrier, offering the most wireless phones that work in the most countries.  It also offers advanced TV services under the AT&T U-verse® and AT&T │DIRECTV brands. The company’s suite of IP-based business communications services is one of the most advanced in the world.

Additional information about AT&T Inc. and the products and services provided by AT&T subsidiaries and affiliates is available at http://www.att.com .  This AT&T news release and other announcements are available at http://www.att.com/newsroomand as part of an RSS feed at www.att.com/rss . Or follow our news on Twitter at @ATT .

© 2013 AT&T Intellectual Property. All rights reserved. 4G not available everywhere. AT&T, the AT&T logo and all other marks contained herein are trademarks of AT&T Intellectual Property and/or AT&T affiliated companies. All other marks contained herein are the property of their respective owners.

About Pantech Wireless, Inc.

Pantech Wireless, Inc., an Atlanta, GA based subsidiary of Pantech Co., Ltd., researches, markets and develops wireless handsets, tablets and telecommunications products throughout North America as part of the Pantech Group.
PR Newswire (http://s.tt/1y3RW)

Hz0 Waterproofing: beer and Android play nice

Posted: 07 Jan 2013 11:39 AM PST

In previous years at CES we’ve seen several different interesting waterproofing technologies, for example Liquipel’s magical waterproofing last year and Zagg has similar solutions. In fact, this isn’t the first time we’ve seen Hz0 either: you may recall when we reported their waterproofing of the Galaxy S2 way back in November 2011.

Well they’re back and this time they’re bullying demo Android devices with beer, orange juice, fruit punch, water, and other nasty liquids. If anyone was foolish enough to think beer and Android didn’t mix delightfully, think again:

The difference between Hz0 and their competitors? Hz0 representatives claims it’s the difference in sealing technology. Hz0′s product is based on nanotechnology, allegedly less porous than the competition and therefore offering greater protection. According to Hz0, that’s why Liquipel and Zagg wouldn’t dare rip open the battery case, expose some internals, yet still drop a phone into a bucket of water with music still playing.

If you ask the folks at Liquipel and Zagg, I’m sure they would tell you a much different story. Regardless of what story they tell you, I want to hear the story from OEMs and carriers: why aren’t these waterproofing services included by default on every phone you offer? Oh, let me guess: because you make more money selling replacements for broken water damaged phones than tacking on additional costs on each device.

Exactly. Let’s hear from you in the comments if you think the majority of high end phones should be waterproofed by default. And, well, let’s hear from you if you disagree as well.

OUYA CREATE will give developers a chance to win $45,000 in prizes for showcasing game prototypes

Posted: 07 Jan 2013 11:04 AM PST

While OUYA has been hard at work compiling its impressive list of development partners for the console’s spring launch, the folks behind the Kickstarter sensation wants to encourage developers everywhere to create wares for the console. It’s easy enough to create and port games to OUYA with the ODK, but perhaps a little bit of a fruitful nudge will get a few more independent developers excited for the Android console.

That’s where OUYA CREATE comes in, a new development competition that will deliver $45,000 in cash and prizes for developers to create working game prototypes for OUYA. The games have to be new, meaning no porting existing titles, and the prototypes have to be whipped up by January 23rd. If you can buckle down and get knee deep into some code you could find yourself in line for some nice prizes. Here’s a more detailed account of how things will go down:

  1. Create a *new* game for OUYA – any style, any genre as long as it's playable (and, of course, fun).
  2. Submit your playable OUYA game prototype between January 14 and 23 to Kill Screen for review.
  3. Show off a video of your demo on YouTube, tweet it up on Twitter, gather your fans on Facebook to gain gamer support and awareness of your OUYA game. Social media support will be one of the criteria used to select finalists.

Kill Screen is OUYA’s partner on the competition, and they — alongside some other industry names — will be the ones reviewing and judging entries. Winners will be picked based on purposely subjective views of the games’ “sheer greatness,” community support for the game (meaning you need to get those “likes” and “thumbs up” campaigns going), and successful use of the OUYA to its full potential.

The grand prize will be $20,000, nothing to sneeze at for most budding independent game developers. The grand prize winner will also get a “you did it” bonus once the game is complete and fully launches on OUYA. Five runner ups will receive $5,000 for winning one of the following categories:

  • “Most Surprising” Award: For the game that does something new and unexpected.
  • “Four Bright Buttons and Two Joysticks” Award: For the game demonstrating the best controls.
  • “Most Immersive” Award: For best demonstration of how a game feels in your living room, instead of your pocket.
  • “Best Couch with Friends” Award: For the game that makes us most nostalgic for the days of all-nighters and Goldeneye in our friend’s basement.
  • “Pop Your Eyes Out” Award: For the game that astounds, visually.

And should those winners complete and launch their games, they will get $1,000 bonuses. It sounds great to me. I would be quick to download the ODK if I were a developer because these are some great prizes to be had, and if you were looking to expand your portfolio and get some more eyes on your wares then this is a great way to do just that.

Entries will be accepted starting January 13th and will continue to be accepted through January 24th. Head to the OUYA CREATE site for more details. Oh, and if you’re looking for an awesome community to share ideas with why not head to OUYABoards.com and sign up? It only takes a minute, and you’ll be mingling with some of the most enthusiastic OUYA fans you’ll find.

ASUS Qube bringing unique Google TV experience in a sleek-looking box

Posted: 07 Jan 2013 10:07 AM PST

The folks at ASUS have announced one of the most exciting Google TV devices we’re probably going to see this year. It’s the ASUS Qube, and it’s the first device which aims to break the traditional model of long set-top boxes or Google TV embedded directly into television sets. This little sucker is a cube, and it will deliver a Google TV experience unlike anything we’ve seen before.

ASUS has employed a custom user interface that uses “cubes” for navigation, allowing you to find the content and apps you want in a very awesome way. It almost sounds like what Samsung tried to do with its old Behold phones, though we expect the implementation to be much better and a lot more user friendly.

One of the unique features of the Qube is its motion-enabled remote. You can navigate the Qube interface by waving the remote around, and although other uses haven’t been unveiled just yet we’re expecting ASUS to do even more with it. There weren’t any other details or specs to be had, but we imagine the box will pack enough of a punch to handle anything Google TV has to offer.

Pricing and availability couldn’t be had right away, natch, but we hope to hear a lot more very soon. We’ve been saying for a while that Google TV needs an injection of something exciting, and ASUS might be the first to deliver in 2013 with the most interesting device we’ve seen thus far. PS: Google, this is what the Nexus Q should have been. Just sayin’.

LG unveils Google TVs for 2013 at CES

Posted: 07 Jan 2013 10:06 AM PST

We know about LG’s 2013 Google TV lineup, but until today we haven’t been able to see them live. The new sets have been officially unveiled today at CES, and they are looking nice, guys. As expected, they will come in 42, 47, 50, 55 and 60-inch versions. More than enough to cover any room in the house!

These are as bezel-less as you have seen, and look gorgeous. One can also use all the new features from Google TV 3.0, like Voice Search, the new PrimeTime and more. LG is also showcasing its new remote, but it is not much different. They just moved the D-pad a little higher. We weren’t able to use the set so we can’t say much about performance and software, but we will definitely be looking for some hands-on action at the showfloor.

LG wouldn’t comment on price either, but they said it would be released by March and be equally similarly to last year’s sets. Last year’s 47-inch LG Google TV was $1600 upon release, while the 55-inch version was $2100. So, you get an idea – they are not cheap.

That is all we could get from LG for now, but we will find more details at the show floor. Stay tuned! Are you guys buying one of these, now that we know what the average price will be?

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Tobii eyesight controlled computer to be Google Glass partner?

Posted: 07 Jan 2013 09:58 AM PST

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Tobii (tobii.com) isn’t a new company – they’ve been around for over a decade – but what they’re showing this year at CES is nothing short of outrageously innovative. You look at your computer monitor, it tracks your eye movement, and you use only your eyes to scroll, click, and perform actions. While we’ve heard of this idea in practice there is a difference with Tobii: it’s working and I tried it successfully for myself.


(video from WinSource.com

The Tobii Rex, which will first be available to developers for $995, plugs in through any USB port and works instamagically. But as you can see from the above video, only (at least for the moment) works with Windows 8 devices. So why are we covering it on Phandroid? You’ll likely see Tobii technology built into Google Glass when it launches.

Below is a picture of an existing Tobii product… look familiar? As I mentioned, Tobii has been around for 10+ years, only not in the consumer technology space. Tobii is mostly focused on in the B2B space as a research company. For example, take 100 consumers, ask them to wear the Tobii glasses, put them in a grocery store aisle, and see exactly where there eyes wander. The resulting information offers invaluable information to marketers about product placement, packaging, and other critical information that helps companies make decisions and sales.

Privacy concerns aside, Google is the type of company that loves analytics, collecting information about consumers, and crowd sourcing that data to create valuable resources for others.

I want to make something very clear: I’m only speculating that Tobii will be a Google Glass Partner. When asked directly, VP of the Silicon Valley Tobii location said explicitly that he could not disclose any partnerships with Google or Google Glass. But it doesn’t take a genius to connect the dots. Just browsing around their website lends itself some interesting ideas on how they might leverage their “Gaze Interaction” and “Eye Tracking Research” down the road.

Tobii’s technology is truly fascinating, partly because of the innovative concept, but even moreso because it actually works. If you couldn’t understand how Google Glass might create opportunities for new interactive experiences, I highly suggest you watch the video above and discuss in the comments below. And even then, watching someone control the Tobii made it seem like a tech demo that somehow cheated its way to seeming cool. Controlling it yourself? Blown away.

Watch for Tobii in 2013 and beyond, whether it’s with the Tobii Rex and Windows 8, Google Glass, or other platforms and opportunities. They specifically mentioned the potential opportunities in the gaming sector… think about THAT! How about a gun-slinging first person shooter where you use only two things: your eyesight and the trigger button.

Tobii is definitely a company to keep your eye on and we’ll make sure to keep you up to date with the latest developments.

LG introduces Panorama Note feature for Optimus Vu: II; saving big announcements for Mobile World Congress

Posted: 07 Jan 2013 09:26 AM PST

We just got back from LG’s CES 2013 showing, and while much of the OEM’s announcements regarded Smart Home appliances, LG threw a sliver of Android news in there for us to sink our teeth into. The company announced Panorama Note, a feature not unlike Samsung’s S Note that’ll allow you to draw to your heart’s content.

Coming to the LG Optimus Vu: II, Panorama Note’s claim to fame will be that you can create your masterpieces on the odd 3:! aspect ratio display instead of the normal ratio we’re used to. Yep, that’s all it is. LG Mobile CEO Jong-Seok Park says that the company’s phone will continue to come with industry-leading specs, but that its user experience will remain just as big of a focus as LG looks to continue to differentiate itself throughout 2013.

Oddly enough, the South Korean manufacturer opted to save its biggest mobile news for a later date. It will wait until the tech industry converges on Barcelona, Spain this February for Mobile World Congress. We’re sure to see a round of smartphones, and perhaps LG will take another crack at the tablet market. Whatever happens, though, you can bet we’ll be in attendance to get a nice, long look at all the latest LG has to offer. Read on for full press details.

SEOUL, Jan. 7, 2013 -– LG Electronics will introduce a new feature, Panorama Note, on the Optimus Vu: II for the first time at the 2013 International CES, held in Las Vegas, Nevada. Panorama Note allows users to create extra wide 3:1 ratio memos and drawings directly on smartphone displays.

 

Panorama Note feature was developed from the analog philosophy of scribbling freely on a large canvas and allows users to write, draw or jot notes while navigating the wide 3:1 ratio image. Panorama Note features 5.8 times zooming capability, easy navigation of the screen both vertically and horizontally via cursors and a Mini Map that shows the location of the viewed image in the original image.

 

"Panorama Note is just one of many user experience features that LG will be introducing this year to differentiate our mobile devices," said Dr. Jong-seok Park, president and CEO of LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company. "Our UX features will be deeply integrated with our devices to take advantage of the smartphones' specific hardware. The battle of smartphone specs will continue but we're going to take the competition to the next level."

 

At CES LG will provide an experimental zone where visitors can personally experience LG's innovative UX such as QSlide, Live Zooming and Dual Screen Dual Play on LG handsets. The new Vu: Talk feature will also make its international debut at CES on Optimus Vu: II. The Panorama Note will be available on specific target devices in 2013.