Jumat, 24 Desember 2010

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What's new on SlashGear.com

When Should a Developer Step In?

Posted: 24 Dec 2010 12:18 PM PST

With the holiday spirit in full effect, and people talking about giving gifts to everyone they know, and hopefully receiving gifts from everyone they know, I realized that I’ve been thinking a lot about developer Treyarch’s Call of Duty: Black Ops. Why? Because a few comments in our recent stories about the poor connectivity for online sessions, and the fact that some people expect something from either Treyarch, or publisher Activision, have made me start wondering if that’s actually an option. When should a developer step in, and start proactively trying to make those who purchased their title happy? After all, the plan that just buying the game would make them happy isn’t working out. So, if there’s a next step, what should it be?

First, I’ve got to make it clear that I don’t own Call of Duty: Black Ops for the PlayStation 3. I own it for Microsoft’s Xbox 360. Second, while the majority of online connectivity issues seem to be plaguing PlayStation 3 owners, I want to point out that I’ve never had an enjoyable online experience with any Call of Duty title. At least, starting from developer Infinity Ward’s Modern Warfare. Since that title released, and with every subsequent entry into the series after that, I’ve always suffered from some form of heinous online connectivity issue. Lag in games was a problem off and on, but that’s something I’ve come to expect over the years of online gaming. But, the big issue with Call of Duty titles, recently at least, is the party system.

“Okay, I’m starting the next match. Everyone hold hands, and stay together!” That’s what one of my Xbox LIVE friends used to say in Modern Warfare. (And yes, it’s corny, but that’s what it feels like. Like we’re kids on a school field trip, trying not to lose one of our classmates.) It carried over to the second title in that story arc, and I remember us making jokes about it in Call of Duty: World at War. Before we finally decided to put Black Ops to the side, and focus on other games that didn’t suffer from these issues, we were joking about it yet again. The party system in Call of Duty is broken, and it’s a poor excuse for how it should work. You don’t even need to compare it to competitive titles like Bungie Studios’ Halo series to realize it’s broken. It just doesn’t work.

Truth be told, while my friends and I were suffering from these issues, and I know there were a few scattering reports of the same problem happening to others on the Xbox 360, it pales in comparison to what’s happening to PlayStation 3 owners. And even if I hadn’t gone through the same problems, I would still be sitting here, feeling your pain. I would still be wondering what, exactly, a developer can do to assuage those who bought their game, and feel like they literally got robbed. Of course, there’s no denying that developers put a ridiculous amount of time in their games; as well as energy, skill, and creativity. (Even if some people don’t think a certain game is creative, it was to at least one person out there, so that’s enough.) And I’m not here to point out any problems with how developers make their games. The trouble –the problem– comes afterwards.

So what should a developer do? Some say they should reimburse players affected by the issues — and with the money that Black Ops is making, that probably wouldn’t be too hard to do. Others think that even just a free add-on would suffice. While still others believe that just giving the game up entirely, and writing off the developer and title is what’s best for everyone. Obviously, Treyarch doesn’t want you to do that. And neither does Activision. But when you’ve got a game like Black Ops, with one of the main selling points its online multiplayer function, and it doesn’t work? A developer shouldn’t be surprised that people are calling them out, threatening to do all sorts of things.

And let’s not forget about the fact that Black Ops‘ first piece of downloadable content (DLC) is heading to the Xbox 360 first, and won’t even be available for PlayStation 3 owners until a month later, at least. Another stab at PS3 owners. And one that just drives home the point that their console of choice is being shunned, at least when it comes to this game, and there doesn’t seem to be much hope. Should Treyarch and Activision let PlayStation 3 owners download the map pack, called First Strike, for free, when it comes out? There would surely be an uproar from 360 owners, especially those who have suffered from online connectivity issues.

So, what, then? What does a developer do? Is there anything for them to do, except continuously say that they are working tirelessly to fix the problem with patches and hot fixes? And then, what happens when the patch actually makes things worse, like patch 1.04? Perhaps a developer’s tactic should be to try and fix the problem, keep trying to fix it, but if nothing they’re trying is working, they provide an extra goodie to gamers. A free map? Maybe credits to use in the game, so they can buy more weapons, perks, or anything else they want? How about offer some money into their digital wallets?

I can’t say for sure what I believe a developer should do. If a game gets to the point that Black Ops has, with no sign of it getting better (or the console getting any real support, before the competition’s system), I’m not sure there’s any way to really come back. If you’ve already gotten rid of the game, and you start hearing that everything has been fixed, are you really going to buy it again? I’m sure there will be some people out there, but the trade-in has already been finalized. Treyarch and Activision will lose out on those used games being sold back to gamers.

Let me know what you think a developer should do. If you think they should do anything at all. Even if you don’t have a PS3, or you aren’t suffering from the problem. Do you think the developers out there owe it to gamers who bought the game some kind of additional content, or even money, because the game isn’t up to par? Or do they just keep trying to fix it, and leave it at that?

Bang & Olufsen Beo6 Home Theater System Remote Unveiled

Posted: 24 Dec 2010 11:30 AM PST

One day before Christmas, and Bang & Olufsen have decided to introduce a brand new home theater system remote. The new model, called the Beo6, is a replacement for the Beo5. And, as you might expect, brings new features along for the ride. Most importantly, though, is the added WiFi connectivity. The remote is unique in its design, as B&O have stuck a square display with soft-touch keys, on top of a round ball that features its own hardware buttons, along with a volume wheel.

The display on top of the ball is where owners will be able to see all the pertinent information, like channels and menus. If you’ve got your whole house set up to allow for B&O integration in multiple rooms, then you’ll be able to control all of them independently, thanks to the Beo6. The device will also offer up programmable macros, to let owners do simple tasks, like dim the lights or turn on a piece of equipment, without having to dig through menus.

Bang & Olufsen have confirmed that the Beo6 will come in either gold or aluminum colors, but there isn’t any word on when the device will ship, or for how much.

[via Electronista]

Samsung Fascinate for Verizon Might See Android 2.2 Upgrade by End of 2010

Posted: 24 Dec 2010 11:02 AM PST

Despite the fact that the talk around town is focused on Android 2.3, or Gingerbread, there’s still a few handsets out there that need to get updated to Android 2.2. While the Droid lineup of devices on Verizon have already made the leap to Android 2.2, or Froyo, and with LG confirming that the Ally will be seeing its own update in the first quarter of 2011, there’s the little matter of updating the Samsung Galaxy S variant for Verizon, better known as the Fascinate.

According to a leak that was tipped over to Android Central, it looks like the Fascinate may be seeing Android 2.2, and Adobe’s Flash Player, by the end of 2010. The photo, which shows a comparison chart of devices available on Verizon, compares the Fascinate to the recently released Droid 2, and Droid X — both manufactured by Motorola, and brandishing the Droid trademark. However, it’s curious to note that the Droid X is listed as having Android 2.1 under the hood, and not 2.2, which is telling us that this comparison chart isn’t exactly new.

So while we’re still hoping that the Fascinate for Verizon does indeed get updated to 2.3 before the start of 2011, especially with rumors that Sprint’s variation, the Epic 4G, is getting updated in just a couple of days, we’ll have to hold our breath a bit longer, we imagine. Hopefully Samsung’s and Verizon’s plans for the upgrade haven’t changed since this chart was released.

[via Android Community]

Baby’s First iPad

Posted: 24 Dec 2010 10:30 AM PST

The first thing my son says when I come into his room in the morning is “iPad.” He’s not quite 2 years old. He can talk in some basic sentences, and will repeat just about anything you say. He can’t dress himself yet, except for his shoes, a pair of Crocs, which are easiest for toddlers to put on themselves. He’s a wiz with the iPad. At first, I was impressed when he could simply unlock the screen. Now he can navigate to his favorite apps, open the photo album, and even manage some pinch-to-zoom gestures when he wants to see faces up close. He can’t yet peddle a tricycle, but he can already catapult an angry bird, though he hasn’t yet killed any pigs. Any day now, those pigs will pay.

[Photo credit: Steve Paine]

At first, I was disheartened when iPad was the first word out of his mouth in the morning. I would have rather he said “Daddy,” or “Good Morning,” or something else more personal and friendly. But that’s not how toddlers work. He doesn’t need to say Daddy at that moment, because I’m already there, he already has me. He says iPad because that’s what he wants. Also, because he knows I’ll give it to him.

With my wife, he says “ba-ba,” which is still his word for bottle. He can say “bottle,” he just prefers ba-ba. If he’s too young for an iPad, he’s also getting too old to drink milk from a baby’s bottle. It could be much worse. When my mother is visiting and she’s the one to see him first thing in the morning, he says “cookie.” He knows what to ask for, and what we’ll each give him. I would much rather he say “iPad” than “cookie.”

But there is a debate raging about whether the iPad, or any advanced technological gadget, is a good idea for children, especially children as young as my son. There are really two debates going on here. The first is whether we should give into the excessive demands of our children. If your child wants an iPad because he’s seen the commercials, or because her friend has one, is it okay for you to buy one for him or her? Should you buy your kid an iPad so that he doesn’t monopolize yours? I know families in each of these predicaments.

It’s a tough question. On the one hand, you don't want to indulge your child. On the other hand, you don’t want to deprive them either. Indulgence can lead to a spoiled kid who doesn’t appreciate the things he’s been giving. Deprival can lead to a kid who feels like they never got the things they wanted, and they might end up indulging themselves later when they finally take control of their own spending.

If there’s one thing I hate, it’s parental debates that seem like the writer is giving you the one thing you must do, with no alternatives. I’m not really offering advice here, and I’m certainly not telling anyone what to do. This is just my thinking on these issues, based more on my years of experience following the way technology has become a part of our lives, and less on my months of experience raising my child.

It’s very possible my son will have his own iPad someday soon. When the next generation iPad comes out, I will probably buy one. It’s not because I’m an early adopter, I’m actively trying to shake that habit. It’s because I cover technology for a living, so I like to have the most iconic products on hand for comparison and testing. At least that’s what I tell myself.

In any case, if I get the new iPad, the old one has to go somewhere. It could go to my wife, but she and I share much better than our 2 year old. He’ll probably get the old one, and we’ll take turns with the new one. I know, I’m missing a major teachable moment there, but you have to pick your battles.

So, is it right to give a toddler such an extravagant gift? Beyond the issue of cost, is it right to indulge his whim? I don’t think there’s a right or wrong answer to that question. I think it’s all about how you handle the situation.

It doesn’t matter what you give a child, so long as they learn to appreciate it. They should value the things they have. They should care for their possessions. There is nothing intrinsic about the iPad that makes it a good or bad present. It’s how the gift is received, and how he thinks about it that truly matters. If my son learned that he wanted an iPad from seeing someone else play with one, I don’t think it’s wrong to give him one, so long as he learns to enjoy it appropriately and take care of it properly.

If he doesn’t? I take it away. It’s all about logical consequences. If I don't take care of my car, it breaks down. If I don’t take care of my computer, it stops working. If my son doesn’t take care of his iPad, I’m not going wait until it’s broken and useless before I take it away. But the lesson will be the same. If you don’t take care of it, you won’t have it very long.

I would also try my hardest to keep him from choosing the iPad over people. That’s a lesson to be learned with anything you give a child. Action figures, dress-up dolls, model train sets, any of these can distract a child so much that they ignore the people around them. The iPad will be for times when he doesn’t have an opportunity to interact with others.

The car will be difficult. Kids can be a real pain while you’re driving, especially long distances. I know I can slip my son the iPad and he’ll be enthralled for a two hour car ride, no problem. But there is something to be said for boredom. Boredom makes you creative. It makes you find things to do. Would anyone play license plate bingo, or sing car songs, if not for the extreme boredom of a road trip? Of course not. So, occasionally we’ll keep the iPad from him for a few hours. We’ll sing, we’ll talk. We’ll try our best to have a good time. Then, we’ll take a break and turn on the radio, so I can listen to NPR while he plays Angry Birds.

The second argument has to do with the effect that digital toys have on a child’s development. I’ve read plenty of advice on how long to wait before letting a child watch television. My wife and I settled on 2 years before he can sit and watch kid’s TV. We’ve been pretty good about sticking to that goal. When the TV is on while he’s in the room, I try to keep it to something educational with lots of words. I watch Jeopardy, and save CSI for when he goes to bed. He loves dancing to the Jeopardy theme music.

My father recently bought a MacBook Pro, the smallest model. He’s a neophyte when it comes to computers, though he’s a smart and capable guy in every other facet of his life. I recommended an iPad to him, but I was probably wrong in that recommendation. He owns an iMac at home. As my mother pointed out, buying an iPad would mean learning an entirely new system, a new interface paradigm. It may seem like a simple interface to those of us who have been using this tech since it’s inception, but when he sees the iPad, it does not seem approachable to him. It seems foreign and a bit confusing. He’s spent years learning how to use his iMac (and he still manages to erase his Mail.app from time to time). At least the MacBook gives him something he can use from day one with no learning curve.

When my father came to visit, he sat my son on his lap while my boy played with the iPad. My son showed him all the tricks. He found his favorite sing-a-long apps for Grandpa to share, and he showed my father pictures from his last visit. When he got bored with an app, he showed Grandpa how to hit the home button, or how to turn up the volume so you can hear the music better. These things might sound obvious to you, but I promise my father would have asked for help on any one of these tasks if I left him alone with that device.

I don’t think that an iPad can educate a child, obviously, but there is value in learning the design language behind the device. It’s a simple, common language, of app icons and homescreens. It’s showing up on devices like smartphones and point-and-shoot cameras, and it might be the direction where computers are headed. Like I said, I don’t think the iPad should replace time with real, live people, but I also think it’s important to learn that design language early, to build the familiarity while he’s young.

So, when is the best time to buy your child an iPad? Whenever you are ready. Whenever you feel like laying down the law, and dealing with the kicking and screaming when it’s time to take the iPad away. Whenever you think your child can take care of such an expensive and relatively delicate device. When you won’t mind the word “iPad” being the first thing you hear in the morning. But wait until you are prepared, because if your child is like mine, he was born ready.

Harmonix Confirms They’ll Keep IP Rights to Rock Band and Dance Central

Posted: 24 Dec 2010 10:20 AM PST

With the official announcement from Viacom and developer Harmonix that the two companies would be splitting up, and the latter would be considered an independent studio again, there was some confusion as to what the future of downloadable content (DLC) would look like for both games. We previously reported that Harmonix said that DLC for Rock Band would continue right on schedule, but there was some confusion as to whether that had anything to do with Viacom, or if it could change at any given moment. The developer has confirmed to Joystiq that they do indeed still own the IP rights for both games, and that everything is still up to them.

While this means that DLC is still planned for the games, it also confirms that if Harmonix chooses, they can issue new releases with the franchise titles. So, there’s the option for a Dance Central 2 coming from Harmonix, and not any other developer that Vaicom chooses. Furthermore, distribution agreements with Microsoft for Dance Central, along with Mad Catz and EA for Rock Band have not been affected.

As Joystiq sees it, Harmonix just doesn’t need Viacom’s backing anymore. With the music game market a substantial part of gaming, and Harmonix’s name tied to it, they no longer need Viacom’s presence or licensing muscle to make games, or get content. Harmonix has put in the work to build relationships on their own, especially over the last four years, and therefore they simply have what it takes to break way from Viacom, and they succeeded.

[via Joystiq]

ET3 Tube System Wants to Take You From New York to Beijing in 2 Hours

Posted: 24 Dec 2010 09:54 AM PST

If you’re claustrophobic, then travelling on any kind of vehicle for transportation is probably pretty rough. Especially an airplane, where you’re sitting right next to a lot of people, in a relatively small space (depending on how you fly, of course). So maybe a giant tube system wouldn’t be to your liking. But, if you’ve got to get somewhere, even somewhere around the world, in a hurry, the ET3 system could be just what the world has been waiting for.

The designers behind the ET3 tube system believe that transportation should be green, affordable, and quick. In their efforts to make this happen, they’ve managed to dream up “space travel on Earth.” The result of that dream is giant tubes that would criss-cross not just over a country, but over the entire globe like a highway system. They say that the “speed in initial ET3 systems is 600km/h (370 mph) for in state trips, and will be developed to 6,500 km/h (4,000 mph) for international travel that will allow passenger or cargo travel from New York to Beijing in 2 hours.” The ET3 stands for Evacuated Tube Transport Technologies.

As of right now, the designers are building an immersive 3D Virtual Ride for their tube system, and they have a sign-up site that you can put your name down for a chance to access it, when they release it. Anyone else think that this is the future of transportation?

[via Oobject]

ET3-System ET3 System2 ET3 System3


Thin-Film Transistors to Cover Paper Money, Make Counterfeiting Harder

Posted: 24 Dec 2010 09:22 AM PST

Counterfeiting is an arm’s race to nowhere. An endless struggle, with both sides trying to out-wit the other. While treasuries all around the world try to find new ways to make counterfeiters sweat, and ultimately unable to make fake money, the counterfeiters in the world just need to figure out how those individuals are making new money, and copy it. There have been plenty of options in the past, like watermarks, ink that never dries, holograms, and colors that can’t be copied. But, they’ve all been figured out in one way or another. But now, thanks to thin-film transistors, it may be almost impossible for counterfeiters to get the job done.

The new technology, which is still being fleshed out, is designed to literally wrap around paper money. The thin-film transistors are made out of gold, organic molecules, and aluminum oxide. The transistors are then set into a patterned mask, and laid on top of the money. How would merchants be able to tell if it’s the real deal? Once the film is in place, there would be about 100 different organic and invisible transistors on each side of the paper note. Thanks to a small 3 volt current, the note would seem to turn “on and off.”

So instead of having to use a special marker, a person would just pass the bill over a sensor, and if it manages to generate the required voltage, the bill is real, and they can buy whatever it is they intended on purchasing. There’s no doubt that this seems like a huge step to fight counterfeiting, but let’s face it: it’s necessary. Will it solve the problem? We can probably hope it does for a long time, but it’s probably not a permanent fix.

[via TG Daily]

OCZ Vertex 2 SSD Review

Posted: 24 Dec 2010 09:12 AM PST

Fast, silent and power-efficient; it seems like the only thing not to like about SSDs is the price. OCZ has sent over its Vertex 2 SSD, a 120GB model that straddles the performance/price boundary at around $220. Check out the full SlashGear review after the cut.

Hardware

The OCZ Vertex 2 on our test bench is a 2.5-inch 120GB model weighing in at 77g and 9.5mm thick. In the retail box, OCZ bundles a 3.5-inch adapter bracket, for using the drive in a desktop rather than a notebook. Maximum speeds on the box are up to 285 MB/s read rate, 275 MB/s write rate and up to 250 MB/s sustained writes.

The Vertex 2 uses the well-esteemed SandForce SF-1200 controller, which has quickly moved to a strong position particularly among OS X users for whom the Mac OS lacks Windows’ TRIM support. TRIM – which the Vertex 2 does support – is used by some platforms to notify not only the OS file system that a file has been deleted but the SSD itself; that means slightly slower deletes but less degradation of performance over time. Apple is yet to add TRIM support to OS X, but the SandForce controller works around that absence with its own “garbage collection” routines at the drive level.

One unfortunate side effect of the SandForce firmware initially used on the Vertex 2 is the amount of NAND memory set aside for over-provisioning leaving a grand total of 119.69GB left of usable storage space. This is used to boost overall write performance and reliability, the latter by replacing bad memory blocks from the reserved memory. On the original Vertex 2, a huge 28-percent of the memory was set aside; newer firmware has slimmed this down to just 13-percent.

Performance

We installed the Vertex 2 into a MacBook Pro running OS 10.6.5 and tested it using Xbench 1.3. In sequential write testing, the SSD managed 191.00 MB/sec with 4K blocks and 153.53 MB/sec with 256K blocks. In random write testing, it achieved 148.42 MB/sec with 4K blocks and 165.07 MB/sec with 256K blocks.

As for read rates, in sequential read tests the SSD scored 29.09 MB/sec with 4K blocks and 179.13 MB/sec with 256K blocks. Finally, in random read tests it managed 22.53 MB/sec with 4K blocks and 172.99 MB/sec with 256K blocks.

Compared to the Samsung 470 Series SSD we tested last month, the OCZ is generally stronger at random reads and writes, but slower at sequential read and writes.

Wrap-Up

As ever, when you’re coming at an SSD from a HDD perspective, it’s tough to argue with the speed increase and the sudden disappearance of noise and vibration from a spinning drive. However, not all SSDs are created equal, as the OCZ’s benchmarks prove.

Samsung’s 470 Series bests it on sequential performance, but the OCZ fights back with random performance; it’s also cheaper, coming in at around $220 street price versus the 128GB Samsung’s roughly $260. Given daily use is more likely to throw up random I/O with various cache files and other temporary documents, and the benefit of the SandForce controller, we’d opt for the OCZ in preference.

OCZ-Vertex-2-SSD-6-SlashGear OCZ-Vertex-2-SSD-5-SlashGear OCZ-Vertex-2-SSD-4-SlashGear OCZ-Vertex-2-SSD-3-SlashGear OCZ-Vertex-2-SSD-2-SlashGear OCZ-Vertex-2-SSD-1-SlashGear OCZ-Vertex-2-SSD-2-2-SlashGear OCZ-Vertex-2-SSD-2-1-SlashGear


Flutter in Pinhole pop-up camera concept has instant appeal [Video]

Posted: 24 Dec 2010 08:45 AM PST

The great thing about the rise of digital cameras is that we’re no longer limited by film and processing in our attempts to preserve memories; however, it’s also possible that we end up devaluing photos in the process. Korean designers Yoo Geun-hyuk & Yoon Bo-jung have come up with Flutter in Pinhole, a disposable, collapsable instant pinhole camera which produces a pair of snaps intended for sharing.

Video demo after the cut

The way the designers envisage it, buyers would order a bundle of Flutter in Pinhole cameras that would arrive with a pre-printed message inside. Each is sent flat: you pop the camera open, rip off the tape across the front, and expose both Polaroid frames simultaneously with the same image. A white pencil is included, which is rubbed over the back of the camera to develop the two shots.

After being cut down the middle, the cardboard unfolds to reveal one frame with the printed message and another with a blank space which you can use the pencil to write or draw on – then you leave the printed side with the subject of the photo, and take the other with you as a keepsake. Alternatively, it could be sent on as a postcard. No word on whether we’ll ever be able to buy them, however.

[via CNET]

EA Android game sale sees $0.99 FIFA 10 & more

Posted: 24 Dec 2010 08:23 AM PST

Electronic Arts’ iPhone App Store 99 cents games sale helped propel them to the top of the leader-board ahead of the all-important holiday Top 10 freeze, and now they’re sharing some love with Android gamers as well. Of the six titles on offer in the Android Market, two are down to $1.99 and four are down to under a dollar.

The two $1.99 titles are Monopoly and The Game of Life. Meanwhile, the $0.99 games include Tetris, FIFA 10, The Sims 3 and Need For Speed Shift. It looks like EA are targeting new Android device owners who might be getting smartphones running Google’s OS as Christmas presents this weekend, and if the sale is anything as successful as it has been on iOS devices, they could be giving indy developers even more to worry about.

[via Android Community]

Canon wants your NFC smartphone as a DSLR screen in new patent application

Posted: 24 Dec 2010 07:55 AM PST

As patent application illustrations go, Canon hasn’t exactly pushed the boat out this time, but there’s enough to see that the company is interested in how digital cameras and cellphones might one day talk among themselves. In an application titled “Communication Device and Control Method Thereof“, Canon outlines a system whereby NFC – or another short-range wireless technology – could be used to turn your cellphone display into an ad-hoc viewer for content on your digital camera, as well as transferring content across or updating settings.

As soon as the camera and phone are moved within wireless range, the processors in each bump heads and figure out the exact capabilities on offer: so, if your phone has a data connection, you may be offered uploading functionality to put your pictures onto Flickr or another online gallery. Meanwhile, Canon expects the same wireless negotiation protocols to be used in other hardware, such as printers, so that moving the camera close to a printer would offer task-specific choices such as producing thumbnail previews or whole-page images.

Considering we’re seeing a push for NFC in mobile devices by Google, with Android 2.3 and the NFC hardware in the Nexus S, together with companies like Apple seemingly looking to the short-range wireless as well, this could well be a useful system for getting DSLR content online more easily and without a computer.

Strand Design 166 superyacht has sportscar garage, optional bullet-proof Samurai leather

Posted: 24 Dec 2010 06:45 AM PST

You might remember Gray Design’s Strand Craft 122, a sleek, curvaceous yacht which integrated a garage for a sports car to take you from the marina to your choice of restaurant. For some, though, a mere 122 feet is far too unimpressive; what they’ll be wanting is the Strand Craft 166, a new superyacht that has the same handy garage but a whole lot more space on-board.

Video after the cut

There are a full five en-suite double staterooms, each lavishly equipped with iPad control units and 52-inch Bang & Olufsen TVs. The carbon-fiber foredeck has a jacuzzi and wet bar, while the flybridge and radar mast both retract – as you can see in the animation below – so as not to spoil the aesthetic when they’re not required. You get the feeling the Strand Craft’s designers have spent a little too long in dank, underground nightclubs: there are lashings of red leather on the walls, chrome and brushed aluminum, and you can optionally have the whole interior clad in bullet-proof Samurai leather.

The car itself is a custom creation by Gray Design, though you could easily slot in your own Ferrari or Lamborghini instead. A 40 knot top-speed rounds things out nicely. No word on pricing – let’s just imagine lots of zeros – and no sign of a date as to when we might see the first Strand Design 166 take to the waves; this may well end up another design exercise that never actually gets wet.

strand_craft_166_4 strand_craft_166_3 strand_craft_166_2 strand_craft_166_1

[via Autoblog]

Press Release:

Strand Craft 166 by Gray Design

The Strand Craft 166 is an uncompromising superyacht that is as outrageous as it is daring. Designed entirely around an automotive theme, this yacht is ideal for owners who are addicted to that new leather smell. Her low stance, enormous length and curled haunches give this vessel a dynamic aesthetic that is guaranteed to turn heads in the the most well appointed marinas.

Retractable flybridge
Contributing to the sleek profile of the yacht is the retractable flybridge and radar mast that retreat into the skin of the yacht when not in use. Both can be deployed independently of each other and are available only when they are required, ensuring the yacht keeps the cleanest possible lines for making that first impression. Strengthening this philosophy are the twin concealed entrances to the yacht, hiding the stairway to the upper aft deck as well as providing access to the garage, bar and lounge areas.

Hidden jacuzzi deck
Concealed beneath the carbon fibre inlaid fore deck is a sun deck equipped with a large jacuzzi, sporting a built-in bar to ensure that every party is well catered for. Access is through a vertically sliding glass door in the windscreen of the pilot house where there is ample seating for 8 guests. The pilot house itself opens up to the lounge to provide a smooth transition and connection between the driver and the main guest area and at the same time letting in light from the main windscreen to the spaces below.

Supercar tender
Following Strand Craft’s automotive tradition, the SC166 comes equipped with it’s own custom supercar tender. Created in the same design language as it’s carrier, the tender ensures you can roll out at your favorite port in ultimate style. With a V8 engine producing 620 horsepower and a top speed of 305 kph, the tender is an accessory that will certainly put a smile on your face.

Alternatively, you can order your own choice of conveyance to accessorize your superyacht. Be it Koenigsegg, Maybach, Lamborghini, Ferrari, or a waterborne tender, the choice is yours.

Interior and exterior automotive styling
The automotive theme is rich in the SC166, from the cockpit like glasshouse on the upper deck to the red leather covered upholstery that adorns large surfaces of the interior. Chrome highlights sparkle in every part of the cabin and the walls are treated to a highly polished gunmetal automotive lacer. Brushed aluminum trims the windows and bar area and the hallways are bathed in soft LED spotlighting.

Bulletproof
The SC 166 comes with the option of having upholstery made from an exclusive Japanese Samurai tread leather. These custom designed leathers are woven from a bullet-proof textile made of Vectran fibres. Optionally all walls can be covered in Samurai leather to make it a bullet proof yacht

Completing the specification list, there are five double en-suite staterooms, each equipped with 52 inch Bang & Olufsen TVs, top of the line sound systems, LED mood lighting and a iPad control and information center from Poets Road to allow you to activate any function from wherever you are on the yacht as well as providing essential information about the running and status of the vessel and it’s massive engines.

Powered by two MTU 20V4000 M93L 2x4300KW (2x5766hp) engines with a Vericor TF50 4177KW (5600hp) booster engine the SC166 is capable of cruising speeds of 30 knots with a top speed of 40 knots.

SC166 Specifications

LOA—————————————50 m
BEAM—————————————9 m
CONSTRUCTION————–High Tech Composites
DRAUGHT (loaded)————————-1.9 m
WEIGHT———————————230 Ton
ENGINES——————-2 x MTU 20V4000 M93L
BOOSTER—————————Vericor TF50
PROPULSION——-Water Jets Rolls-Royce KAMEWA
TOP SPEED—————————~ 40 Knots
FUEL CAPACITY————————–35000 L
FRESHWATER CAPACITY———————5000 L
BOW THRUSTERS——————————TBA
STABILIZERS——————————–TBA
GENERATORS———————————TBA
WATERMAKERS——————————–TBA
GREY / BLACK WATER CAPACITY—————-TBA

SC166 Tender Specifications

ENGINE—————————-4.3 liter V8
TORQUE——————————-347 lb-ft
HP—————————510 hp @ 8500 rpm
0-62 MPH—————————3.7 seconds
TOP SPEED——————————196 mph

Comcast/NBC deal could see Hulu exclusivity bypassed

Posted: 24 Dec 2010 06:23 AM PST

Hulu‘s exclusivity deal with NBC could be under threat, depending on interpretations of proposed FCC limitations on the Comcast/NBC deal. According to AllThingsD, FCC head Julius Genachowski could be looking to bypass Hulu as an exclusive NBC content provider, but the dialog around the conditions are so vague it’s difficult to tell whose interests the FCC is serving.

According to the WSJ, one of Genachowski’s key goals is to ensure that online video content would be broadly available, even after the proposed deal goes ahead:

“Comcast would be required to offer NBC Universal programming to any online video provider that has reached a similar deal for content with some of NBC's competitors, such as Walt Disney Co. or Fox Television, a division of News Corp.” WSJ

However, it’s not entirely clear what Genachowski hopes to achieve by that. As AllThingsD suggest, it could mean that NBC would not be allowed to prevent Hulu from syndicating its content to other sites, as is currently the case. Alternatively, it might be a sign that NBC has to directly offer its content to other sites, in effect cancelling out Hulu’s exclusivity agreement and potentially bypassing the site altogether.

The proposed deal will be voted on in 2011.

Apple Remote gets AirPlay video streaming support

Posted: 24 Dec 2010 05:46 AM PST

Apple has updated its free Apple Remote app for iOS devices, adding in AirPlay video support. The app [iTunes link] now allows you to choose from video media stored on your computer and control its streaming to an Apple TV. Meanwhile, there’s also control over internet radio playback, along with access to rented TV shows and movies on iTunes on your desktop.

As before, you can also use the app to create and edit playlists (including Genius playlists), send audio via AirPlay to speakers, and to generally operate as a more comprehensive remote control for the Apple TV. You’ll need an iPhone, iPod touch or iPad to use it; you can download it here.

Samsung drops Froyo on Galaxy S users in the UK

Posted: 24 Dec 2010 05:00 AM PST

If you are using the Samsung Galaxy S, smartphone in the UK Samsung just made an announcement that will make your day. Samsung is now offering the Froyo Android 2.2 update on all carriers in the UK for the Galaxy S.

The announcement was made just a bit ago so the traffic and waiting queues to download the update should still be decent. The Samsung support site also has the full Froyo version of the user manual for download as well.

Samsung made the update official via a Tweet that read, “We have some good news for the festive season; 2.2 is now available for the Galaxy S on all networks. For more info – http://bit.ly/fELjjK”

Via Android Community

Rollei unveils slick 3D camera and 3D digital frame

Posted: 24 Dec 2010 04:43 AM PST

A few cameras and accessory lenses on the market today allow us to shoot 3D photos. All of those photos need either a 3D TV to view or a special digital photo frame for showing them off. A company called Rollei has unveiled a new digital camera that shows 3D photos and a new digital photo frame for showing those photos off.

The camera will hit the market for purchase next year and it is called the Power Flex 3D. It takes 3D photos by shooting two pics at the same time with dual 5MP sensors. The camera also has the ability to record video in 720p resolution. The rear LCD is a 2.8-inch unit that can show 3D images without needing glasses.

The camera also shoots in 2D mode with 8x digital zoom and it has an HDMI output. The digital photo frame is a 7-inch screen mode and shows images at 800 x 480 resolution. The frame ships with software for making 2D photos into 3D. The frame also has an internal rechargeable battery good for up to 3-hours. The frame will ship at the end of January for 299.95 euro and the price of the camera is unknown.

rollei-1 rollei-2


Kinect becomes gesture remote for Boxee and XBMC media portal

Posted: 24 Dec 2010 04:28 AM PST

I have to say that most of the Kinect hacks that I have seen have been cool, but had no real use for me or most other geeks that don't hack just for fun. A new hack for the Kinect has surfaced dubbed KinEmote and this is one hack that would be useful to many people.

The KinEmote hack turns the Kinect into a gesture controller that allows the user to navigate the menus of a Boxee device and the XBMC media portal using nothing but hand gestures captured by the Kinect. The hack will also work with any other OpenNI compliant camera according to the maker.

The KinEmote hack was created by a couple of geeks called John Simons and Joel Dodd. You can download the software needed to do this in your own home right now. If you try it out let us know how it works.

Nokia N8 shoots pics for PiX Magazine cover

Posted: 24 Dec 2010 04:15 AM PST

Being a full time tech geek is a pretty sweet gig and typically, I think I have it pretty good. I get to play with gadgets and spend my days getting paid for doing things I would do even if I had a real job and getting dressed up only involves wearing pants. As cool as being a pro geek is, the sweetest gig ever would have to be a fashion photographer. You get to hang out with hot chicks all day after all.

A photography magazine called PiX has announced that the cover photo for the December/January edition was shot with a Nokia N8 smartphone. The pic looks really, really good. I have seen photographers take some shots with the iPhone that are really good too. I guess the problem with crap pictures that I take isn’t the camera phone it's the camera user.

You can check out the video below to see the cover shoot and the N8 in action. The vid is ok if you are at work so watch and enjoy. This is so much cooler than that N8 fridge stunt we talked about earlier today.

Via PhoneArena

Best Buy to open early December 26 with special deals

Posted: 24 Dec 2010 03:58 AM PST

Let’s face it gang, we all know that there is a chance that the gadget you asked for Santa to bring you might not be the right gadget. Little details like processor speed and 3G or non-3G version tend to escape the non-geek when they are shopping. If you end up with a gift that came from Best Buy tomorrow that isn't exactly what you wanted you will have to take it back.

Best Buy has announced that it will be opening early on December 26 at 7am to let geeks and shoppers get into the store to exchange and return things. If you got a gift certificate or money that you need to blow there will be some deals in the store too that you can take advantage of.

Best Buy will have a HP AMD Turion notebook with 3GB of RAM and 320GB of storage for $399.99. Peripherals like laptop mice will be on sale starting at $5.99. If you got a new TV and home theater gear, you need the awesome Logitech Harmony One remote that will be on sale from $159.99, $90 off regular price. Select iPhone 4 cases will be 50% off and some Blu-ray flicks will be offered for $12.99.

Mac App Store details and pics surface

Posted: 24 Dec 2010 03:47 AM PST

If you are a Mac fan, you have probably been waiting with anticipation for the Mac App Store that ol’ Steve promised a while back. Some new screen shots and details on the Mac App Store have now surfaced for you to peruse and get excited bout.

One of the pics shows the login screen for the Mac app Store and you will need your login ID from iTunes or MobileMe to get in. The store will apparently have parental controls to block kids from getting apps that aren't appropriate. The categories will apparently be over four, over nine, over twelve, and over seventeen.

9to5 Mac even came up with a pic of the Mac App Store icon sitting on the OS X 10.6.6 dock on the screen. The icon looks like the one on your iPad or iPhone. 9to5 Mac also says that they have confirmed that apps on Mac and iOS devices aren't compatible.

MacApp-1 MacApp-2


ZAGGmate adds a keyboard to your iPad

Posted: 24 Dec 2010 03:31 AM PST

ZAGG launched a cool case back on Black Friday that I missed somehow designed for the iPad. There are two version of the case called the ZAGGmate. One of the versions is just a case that lifts the screen for you to watch more comfortably. The more interesting version of the case also has a keyboard that hides under the iPad.

The keyboard version has a keyboard that is inside the case and the iPad lifts up and is propped by a stand to revel the little keyboard. It’s a pretty slick system. ZAGG has announced that it has sold and shipped a bunch of the cases so far, to the tune of about $2 million worth.

ZAGG is also talking up its plans for CES where it will unveil more versions of the ZAGGmate. I wonder if the new version will be for iPad or if they will be for other devices. The coolest part about the ZAGGmate is that ZAGG claims it only adds a quarter inch of thickness when installed on the iPad. The keyboard version sells for $99.99 and the non-keyboard version is $69.99.

zaggmate-1 zaggmate-2 zaggmate-3


Dev-Team looks for redsn0w testers for 4.2.1 untethered jailbreak “backup plan”

Posted: 24 Dec 2010 03:15 AM PST

Back in November, we first talked about redsn0w and outlined a bit of the downsides about trying it out. Those downsides were significant with the fact that the jailbreak uses techniques to set your iPhone free that didn't leave a route back to normal and would void your warranty because Apple could tell you modded the phone.

Another important factoid in November when the tool surfaced was that it only supported the iPhone 3G and 3GS smartphones. The Dev-Team Blog is seeking redsn0w testers that want to try out a “backup plan” for them to the 4.2.1 untethered jailbreak. They are wanting these testers to help them find bugs before the new tool is offered in open release.

There are some caveats to the test program. They only want people using Macs and they want anyone who tests to not need the ultrasn0w unlock. If you are interested in using the new tool, you need to have 4.2b3 IPSW on your Mac.

BenQ R100 slate bringing 12hrs of Android in Q1 2011

Posted: 24 Dec 2010 03:06 AM PST

BenQ’s Android tablet plans have been previewed ahead of the new year, with the company apparently launching their 10.1-inch Froyo slate in Q1 2011. The BenQ R100 has a 10.1-inch 1024 x 600 resistive touchscreen – complete with a stylus for Chinese handwriting recognition – and runs Android 2.2 on an 833MHz Samsung processor.

Connectivity includes WiFi b/g/n, Bluetooth, HDMI and mini USB, along with a headphones socket. There’s also 8GB of onboard storage and a memory card slot, and BenQ is apparently lining up a digital content store for ebooks and magazines.

Although the resistive touchscreen is likely to dissuade some buyers, the R100′s estimated battery life may still turn heads; BenQ expect the tablet to last around 12 hours on a full charge. No word on pricing at this stage.

[via MP4 Nation and via Android Community]

Ubitus shows off LTE cloud gaming chops

Posted: 24 Dec 2010 03:02 AM PST

With more and more LTE networks coming on line all around the world and bring with them blazing fast 4G data speeds there are a lot of gamers out there looking to play some video games using their new and speedy wireless connections. A company called Ubitus was on hand to show off its CloudGaming solution when NTT DOCOMO launched its latest LTE network recently.

The GameCloud solution allows all major terminal devices with the ability to stream video to play any games from PC games to online 3D games and games on social networks like Farmville. The speedy LTE network allows the user to enjoy dynamic and adjustable streaming rates and seamless user interaction.

GameCloud tech specializes in rendering games that require heavy graphic computing on the server cloud and processes the game media into streaming video. Streaming protocols used by the system allow mobile devices with a thin client to interactively control the game remotely through a dynamically rendered user interface. Ubitus promises minimal latency and processing time.

Arctic Cooling rolls out new presenter peripheral

Posted: 24 Dec 2010 02:50 AM PST

Arctic Cooling is mostly known for cooling gear, but the firm has a lot more to offer. It has rolled out a new peripheral for computer users that do lots of presentations called the Presenter 1. The device is a controller that uses a wireless connection to your PC with a USB dongle to control your presentation on a screen.

The device has control for all functions of your presentation with buttons for volume, darkening the screen and escape as well as previous and next slide. It also features a red laser pointer so you can point at stuff.

The wireless receiver is plug and play with no drivers needed for functionality and power for the presenter comes from a pair of AAA batteries that are included. The wireless connectivity is 2.4GHz and the device has a range of 15 meters. You can pick one up now for $31.90.

Nokia N8 vibe motor shows its strength in bizarre refrigerator stunt [Video]

Posted: 24 Dec 2010 02:12 AM PST

It’s not entirely clear why you’d want to prove that the Nokia N8‘s vibration motor is capable – with some suitable gearing – of lifting a 60kg+ refrigerator, but that’s just what some Chinese engineers have decided to prove. As you can see in the video after the cut, having dismantled the Symbian smartphone (something we already know is pretty straightforward) they then turned to the awesome power of whiteboard calculations to get the fridge off the ground.

Video demo after the cut

To be fair, this isn’t so much a victory for the N8 as it is for the awesome power of gears, but we’ll give the Nokia credit for not burning out its vibration motor in the process. Although this is unlikely to spawn an app in the Ovi Store, it’s useful to know that, should you crash land on a desert island and find yourself pinned under a chunk of broken-up airplane, all you need to extract yourself is Nokia’s finest, a small team of engineers and a shed full of spare parts.

[via MIC Gadget]

Nokia N900 gets Parrot AR.Drone remote control [Video]

Posted: 24 Dec 2010 01:59 AM PST

The Nokia N900 continues to show its appeal this week; after getting Android 2.3 Gingerbread on Wednesday, now the Maemo smartphone has become the next way to control Parrot’s AR.Drone. As we found in our AR.Drone review, Parrot only offers iOS remote control apps officially, and has left the APIs open for developers to create Android and other apps themselves. That’s just what Maemo chief engineer Kate Alhola has done with her N900.

Video demo after the cut

Unlike the iOS versions, the N900 app for controlling the AR.Drone uses two on-screen joysticks rather than the accelerometer to control the quadricopter. Still, we’re guessing that could be addressed in future versions. Otherwise you get the same live video stream and direct WiFi connection, together with all the AR.Drone’s own intelligent auto-hover and object avoidance.

While the project has been a way of letting the N900 work with a new toy, Alhola also has another motivation: to prove that neither the N900 nor Maemo are dead. Responding to speculation that both device and platform are facing an imminent demise, she instead suggests that “the best option today is to develop with maemo5 with Qt and Qt Quick and when a MeeGo handset is released, just deploy your application for it, it is that easy.”

[via My Nokia Blog]

Sony confirms Toshiba Cell chip plant buy-back

Posted: 24 Dec 2010 01:46 AM PST

Sony has confirmed that it is buying back the Nagasaki Semiconductor Manufacturing Corporation (NSM) Cell production facility from Toshiba, as rumored earlier this week. The plant was sold to Toshiba back in 2008 and then leased to NSM, a joint venture in Cell chip production between Toshiba, Sony and SCEI; once Sony has purchased the plant, the NSM partnership will also be terminated.

The sale is expected to be completed early in the fiscal year ending March 31 2012, after which it’s unclear if Toshiba will continue to use the Cell chips in their high-end Qosmio notebooks. Sony uses the Cell technology in the PS3 console.

Press Release:

Toshiba and Sony Sign Memorandum of Understanding for the Transfer of Semiconductor Fabrication Facilities

Tokyo, Japan, December 24, 2010 — Toshiba Corporation (“Toshiba”) and Sony Corporation (“Sony”) today announced that they had signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding expressing their intent to transfer from Toshiba to Sony the semiconductor fabrication facilities owned by Toshiba and operated by Nagasaki Semiconductor Manufacturing Corporation (“NSM”), a joint venture among Toshiba, Sony and Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. (“SCEI”), and, following the contemplated transfer, terminate their NSM joint venture relationship.

NSM, which was established in March 2008 and is located in the Nagasaki Technology Center of Sony Semiconductor Kyushu Corporation (“SCK”), has been manufacturing the high-performance “Cell Broadband Engine™” processor, the graphics engine “RSX” and other high-performance semiconductors and leading-edge SoC (system-on-a-chip) for applications in digital consumer products of Toshiba and Sony. The facilities to be transferred would be the fabrication facilities and equipment for the 300 mm wafer line located within the Nagasaki Technology Center purchased by Toshiba from Sony and SCK and leased to NSM in 2008 and other facilities that Toshiba and Sony will agree to transfer among those in which Toshiba invested in connection with the operation by NSM after the purchase.

After due diligence on the facilities to be transferred and continuing negotiations, Toshiba and Sony aim to execute definitive agreements (with respect to the contemplated transfer of the semiconductor fabrication facilities) as soon as possible before the end of the fiscal year ending March 31, 2011. Thereafter, Toshiba and Sony aim to complete the transfer early in the fiscal year ending March 31, 2012, subject to any necessary government approvals.

LG HX996TS and HB906SB 3D home theater systems & BD960 Blu-ray/media server outed

Posted: 24 Dec 2010 01:38 AM PST

LG has outed its CES 2011 line-up of 3D AV kit, seemingly deciding that pre-holiday press is better than the early January crush. Star of their show will be the LG HX996TS, a 3D home theater system, along with the LG HB906SB Blu-ray 3D home theater system, and the LG BD690 network 3D Blu-ray player.

The two home theater setups have USB inputs for creating MP3s from CDs (you’re bound to get a few in your Christmas stocking) along with dual HDMI inputs, WiFi, ethernet and an iPod/iPhone dock. The HX996TS packs 7.2-channel speakers and a 1280W amp, while the HB906SB makes do with 5.1-channel and 1100W.

As for the BD960, that has a 250GB hard-drive, 3D Blu-ray support and WiFi, and can act as both a DLNA client and server for wireless media streaming. Like the two home theater systems it supports LG’s Mobile Remote App, and all three units get access to the company’s LG App Store and streaming content. No word on pricing, but all three should go on sale in early 2011.

lg_ces_2011_3 lg_ces_2011_2 lg_ces_2011_1

Press Release:

LG to unveil complete range of superior 3D AV devices at CES 2011

New 3D Home Theater Systems and Network Blu-ray 3D Disc™ Players Deliver Optimum Technology for Complete 3D Entertainment Experience

SEOUL, Dec. 23, 2010 –- LG Electronics (LG) is set to greatly expand the 3D home entertainment experience as it unveils a full range of 3D AV devices at CES 2011 in Las Vegas. The showpiece 3D devices include the HX996TS, a Real 3D Sound Home Theater System; the HB906SB, a premium Blu-ray 3D DiscTM Home Theater System; and the BD690, a Network Blu-ray 3D Disc™ Player that delivers the perfect 3D entertainment experience for every occasion and setting.

"3D entertainment is set to explode in the year ahead and LG is setting the pace with our new 3D AV line-up," said Havis Kwon, President and CEO of LG Home Entertainment Company. "From picture to connectivity to sound, we've tailored all our products to produce the best 3D home entertainment experience possible and we're eager to show these off at the largest consumer electronics show in the world."

The HX996TS, LG's Real 3D Sound Home Theater System, complements 3D home entertainment with a sound as deep and lifelike as any 3D image. Its innovative new approach to audio includes the Vertical 3D Effect Channel, which works by emitting sound through the tops of the system's four Tallboy Speakers. The resulting audio waves completely fill the space above viewers' heads, creating the illusion that they're right in the middle of the movie. The HX996TS was the recipient of a 2011 CES Innovations Honoree Awards.

The HB906SB, a premium Blu-ray 3D Disc™ Home Theater System, is the ideal platform for bringing 3D films to life. Boasting 1,100 watts of output, the HB906SB's lush, powerful sound can be tailored to users' needs with the seven different modes of LG's signature Sound Gallery, which is further strengthened by LG's new Digital
Signal Processing (DSP).

Both of LG's new Home Theater Systems have superb connectivity with full support for USB recordings and HDMI. They also support built-in Wi-Fi applications, iPod/iPhone dock cradle, and a number of options for providing superior sound for 3D HDTVs and a other home entertainment devices.

Lastly, the BD690, a Network Blu-ray 3D Disc™ Player, provides the ultimate companion to HDTV with Blu-ray 2D and 3D Disc™ playback and an on-board digital media library. Additionally, the BP650 Network Blu-ray 3D Disc™ Player is a great portable option, with its compact design and internet and HDMI connectivity.

All of LG's new 3D AV devices complement their first-class technology with slim and innovative designs. Audio files in most major markets will be able to experience LG's new 3D AV devices starting in early 2011.

HX996TS Specifications:
· 7.2ch 1280W total output power with 3D sound
· LG Sound Gallery with parabolic speaker
· USB recording (MP3 file creation from music CD)
· 2 HDMI In (HDMI 1.4), ARC (Audio Return Channel)
· Firmware upgrade for advanced function and services
· External HDD playback (DivX HD, MKV)
· Music ID capture and streaming (Gracenote)
· iPod / iPhone cradle
· Wi-Fi direct, Ethernet, DLNA compliant
· Smart TV Technology: Premium Content and LG App. Store
· Mobile Remote App.

HB906SB Specifications:
· 5.1ch 1100W total output power
· LG Sound Gallery with parabolic speaker
· USB recording (MP3 file creation from music CD)
· 2 HDMI In (HDMI 1.4), ARC (Audio Return Channel)
· Firmware upgrade for advanced function and services
· External HDD playback (DivX HD, MKV)
· Music ID capture and streaming (Gracenote)
· iPod / iPhone cradle
· Wi-Fi direct, Ethernet, DLNA compliant
· Smart TV Technology: Premium Content and LG App. Store
· Mobile Remote App.

BD690 Specifications:
· Smart TV Technology: Premium Content and LG App. Store
· Store Digital Media in Built-in HDD (250GB)
- Audio CD Archiving
- Photo Download
- User Made Contents Copy to HDD
· Blu-ray 3D Playback
· Built-in Wireless LAN (Wi-Fi) / Wi-Fi Direct
· Stored Contents Sharing
- Bi-Directional Content Sharing (DLNA Server and Client)
· Mobile Remote App.

Kinect Sign-Language hack is work-in-progress [Video]

Posted: 24 Dec 2010 01:03 AM PST

Sign language recognition support was one of the surprising potential use-cases for the Kinect beyond simple motion gaming in the run up to the peripheral’s release, and a team of researchers at Georgia Tech College of Computing are hard at work making it a reality. They’re looking to use Kinect in their ongoing CopyCat project, a video game intended to teach young people American Sign Language (ASL).

Video demo after the cut

Previous versions of CopyCat used a single camera and relied on tracking colored gloves embedded with accelerometers to interpret ASL movements. However, thanks to Kinect’s virtual skeleton recognition, the team can do away with that.

In early testing – with a limited vocabulary – the Kinect-powered system was able to achieve 98.8-percent accuracy in tracking signed sentences. There’s still plenty of work required, however; the team is looking to boost the system’s vocabulary as well as support longer sentences, more complex ASL constructs, and signer-independent vocab. They’ll also look at recognizing hand-shape features, rather than arm movements, for higher-resolution support. It remains to be seen how Microsoft will react, given that the company already holds a patent on Kinect sign language support.

[via SiliconANGLE and via Kinect Hacks]
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