Senin, 07 Februari 2011

What's new on SlashGear.com

What's new on SlashGear.com

Best Buy Inventory Shot: New MacBook Pros on March 11

Posted: 07 Feb 2011 03:14 PM PST

Early this morning we reported that low inventory levels pointed towards a MacBook Pro refresh. The announcement was tipped as coming on February 9. Now a Best Buy inventory screenshot has seemingly confirmed the imminent MacBook Pro update. The in-stock date is given as March 11, which is when we can expect these babies to launch.

One of the shots revealed a $1,199 price tag for one model, thought to be the 13″ Pro. A refresh of the Mac Pro and a new “mainstream” iMac are also expected for the near future. The new machines were delayed by a serious issue with the Sandy Bridge processor. Apple’s most optimistic estimate was given as March. It appears they were right.

[Via 9to5 Mac]

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Apple May Do Away With Boxed Software

Posted: 07 Feb 2011 03:01 PM PST

Apple's Mac App Store might be the main source of purchasing software for Apple customers in the future. The success of the Mac App Store's launch could be ushering an era where Apple will only carry digital copies of software in their retail stores.

Evidence of Apple moving in that direction can be seen when you buy a new Mac:

When you purchase a Mac at an Apple Retail store an employee will help you setup your e-mail accounts, walk you through the Mac App Store, setup an iTunes account for you, and show you the basic pointers of owning a Mac. Some stores will even have dedicated Mac setup stations.

The new MacBook Air comes with a USB drive with reinstall software loaded on it. USB flash drives are pretty cheap now so it makes economical sense to use that instead of using DVD-ROMs. The boxed software also takes up valuable retail space from the more profitable and prominent iPods, iPhones, and Macs. It could lead to the eventual elimination of optical drives too since we would no longer need one with our USB flash drives carrying all our digital software.

[Via MacRumors]

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Trouble At Notion Ink: UI Director Leaves, Adam Battery Issues Surface

Posted: 07 Feb 2011 02:46 PM PST

Notion Ink put on one hell of a show at CES 2011. The Adams they showed us were extremely polished. But one thing you can’t test in a floor review is battery life. Which is why it’s taken until the first wave of Adam’s for a major battery issue to pop up.

Initially, it was claimed that the Adam could support looping 1080p video on full volume/brightness for 6 hours. Real in-use life estimates started at fifteen and went up from there. The iPad’s outstanding 10 hour battery and the super-efficient Pixel Qi display made this claim plausible.

But now two threads on the Notion Addicts forums have popped up, filled with complaints about the battery. User happy1′s response was characteristic of issues experienced by several users:

“The update did not fix the battery. I lose 22% every hour. Basic surfing, some app dowloading, some setting up. Wifi on, airplane on, sync off, cell off, brightness 80%. At this rate i will get about 4:45. I have the pq model.”

A few users did claim to have experienced battery life that measured in with Notion Ink’s claims, but they appeared to be in the minority. User kaozskyblade looped standard def video at 65% brightness with the WiFi on and saw a little under 6 hours. That would put the Adam in line with the Galaxy Tab…and far away from the iPad.

I’ve yet to find a rigorous test of the Adam’s battery life by a reviewer under controlled conditions. Until that happens- several times- we won’t know for certain if this is a flaw in the Adam or a manufacturing issue.

This isn’t the only worrisome sign to come from the promising Indian gadget-maker. Notion Ink’s design director Andre Rodrigues appears to have left the company. He tweeted his return to Mumbai recently, and updated his bio to reflect the change. This is an ominous portent for the fledgling Eden UI.

[Via Notion Addicts]

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Verizon iPhone 4 Jailbreak Successful

Posted: 07 Feb 2011 02:30 PM PST

It didn't take long for the just released Verizon iPhone 4 to be successfully jailbreaked. The first screenshots of the jailbreaked device was released over at BlogsDNA showing the Verizon iPhone 4 iOS 4.2.6 running with Cydia.

Initial attempts did not work out using Greenpois0n RC5, but after updating to RC 5.4, it seems to be smooth sailing. The process should take no more than a minute to complete and video tutorials seem abundant on the web.

Chronic Dev, the team behind Greenpois0n, has just officially released version RC5.4. However, only the Mac version is available for now.

[Via BlogsDNA]

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NFL Teams May Replace Playbooks with Tablets

Posted: 07 Feb 2011 02:01 PM PST


The NFL is considering trading in the hefty playbooks with a tablet. The move would be a great win for environmentalist as one NFL team easily goes through 5,000 pages of plays and video printouts each game. The image of tablets on the sidelines may seem strange but after looking at the futuristic design of Cowboys Stadium where the Super bowl was just played, it might fit right in.

The number one concern about traditional playbooks has always been security, making sure they don't end up in the wrong hands. Tablets could have security measures like remotely wiping the device if one was ever lost. Cost could be lowered as well since teams could just download the new playbook to tablets, rather than reprinting an entire playbook. It does make sense using tablets during a game though because the device would let coaches and players study and sift through dozens of plays and video replays.

The idea is still in preliminary stages and there are worries about beefing up wireless security on the tablets. They want to make sure hackers can't access the devices remotely. Peter Walsh, the Dallas Cowboys' head of technology, told CNET that the organization and many other NFL organizations are considering both Android tablets and the Apple iPad. When and if the conversion does take place, it won't be long until we get flooded with in-game tweets from players.

[Via CNET]

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T-Mobile: All Smartphones Free February 11 & 12

Posted: 07 Feb 2011 01:55 PM PST

T-Mo has just announced one of the crazier deals in their long, storied history of crazy deals. As a Valentines Day celebration, the carrier will offer all of their smartphones for free. This deal will only be good on Feb 11 and 12. Customers will be able to take advantage of the craziness both online and in retail outlets.

Supplies of the better T-Mobile phones- like the Vibrant and the G2, are likely to be rather constricted. If you plan to hit up a store, you’d better get there early. Nothing gets people to commit to expensive, multi-year contracts like a shiny free phone.

That’s what T-Mo’s betting on, anyway. The imminent Verizon iPhone has them quaking in their magenta boots. This is a (slightly desperate) attempt to reduce the potential pool of Big Red iPhone owners. Two million or more are expected to sell, so T-Mobile has their work cut out for them.

[Via T-Mobile]

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Verizon iPhone 4 teardown: World Phone CDMA/GSM radio inside

Posted: 07 Feb 2011 01:39 PM PST

iFixit has been at it again, whipping out the adjustable spanner set (well, a selection of Torx screwdrivers actually) and taking on Verizon’s iPhone 4. We’ve already given the CDMA smartphone a good going over in our full Verizon iPhone 4 review, but now we get to see the changes inside the iOS handset too. The biggest point of interest is the Qualcomm MDM6600 radio chipset, which actually could’ve been used to make the Verizon iPhone 4 into a so-called world phone.

While the outside of the smartphone looks little changed from the original GSM version, inside it’s a completely different story. iFixit found that all of the RF components, including antenna placement, EMI (electromagnetic interference) shields, connector locations, and even the board layout have changed. Even the vibration motor has been modified and shifted in the chassis.

Since the antenna design was pretty much locked in, it seems even more time than normal has been spent “polishing” the concept, as iFixi says, to keep the familiar appearance. The radio chipset is the same as in the Verizon DROID Pro, and could in fact support both CDMA and GSM/WCDMA; the teardown team speculates that Apple chose not to because of the antenna design hassles.

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Verizon’s iPhone 4: I Was Wrong. Here’s Why.

Posted: 07 Feb 2011 01:30 PM PST

“The surest way for an analyst to generate attention is by making an Apple prediction. Apple has a cult following, and its product development and launch strategy is famously secretive, so the fact that your source is the lunch counter guy across the block from the Hon Hai factory in Taiwan won't be discovered (or may even be considered authoritative!)”

Those were the opening lines in my first column for SlashGear back in October of 2009. I went on to note that while I don’t usually make specific product predictions, I would go out on a limb and provide a guess on when we'd see an iPhone on Verizon Wireless: in 2014, when Verizon Wireless completed its LTE rollout.

By then, Apple could provide a single iPhone that worked across both AT&T and Verizon Wireless LTE networks. I later adjusted that estimate to 2012 once Verizon Wireless accelerated the expected completion date of its national LTE rollout.

Proof that I should never had made specific predictions came a few weeks ago when I attended a press conference in New York and got hands-on with an iPhone 4 specifically designed for Verizon Wireless' CDMA network. It started shipping earlier this month.

Apple isn't building a CDMA iPhone just to sell a lot of phones. There are certainly financial considerations here – Apple was leaving a lot of money on the table by offering its phone through just a single U.S. carrier (Current Analysis doesn't create sales forecasts, but if we did, it would be a very big number). However, Apple's business model is to build a hardware platform once and then focus on software and services.

Other handset vendors build both CDMA and GSM devices, or even multi-mode devices, but for Apple to justify building an entirely separate hardware platform, it needed more than just the promise of additional device sales. Verizon Wireless admitted as much when it noted that it was never in the running for the original 2007 iPhone, and that it had to approach Apple in 2009 rather than the other way around. In addition to being an exceptionally profitable endeavor, Apple had three reasons to build a CDMA iPhone:

1. Blunt the rise of rivals. Without an iPhone, Verizon Wireless was forced to back other operating systems. The carrier proved to be a powerful backer, first fueling sales of miserable touchscreen products from RIM and then increasingly strong Android devices. To some extent, the damage has already been done with Android, which evolved extremely quickly from an OS only a geek could love just eighteen months ago, into a polished user experience with 2.2 and later. Still, an iPhone at Verizon Wireless should slow Android sales going forward and prevent Verizon Wireless from overinvesting in webOS or Windows Phone 7.

2. Offload some of AT&T's network traffic and disassociate Apple's brand from AT&T in the U.S. AT&T's network has repeatedly failed in three locations: the San Francisco bay area (where Apple is located), New York City (where much of the media and most of the financial industry is located), and anywhere a few hundred journalists converge (such as CES press conferences at the Venetian). AT&T has made strides in improving the network performance in Manhattan and the AT&T-Apple relationship remains strong, but Steve Jobs is a perfectionist, and a large part of the consumer experience of a phone is the network it is on.

3. Finally, it turns out that waiting and doing a single LTE/HSPA iPhone is not really an option. Verizon Wireless and AT&T are both migrating to LTE for their 4G network deployments, but, at least initially, both companies are using LTE just for data, not voice. This means that Apple cannot wait for the national LTE rollouts to be complete and then create just a single LTE iPhone, because it still will not function as a phone on Verizon Wireless without CDMA in there, too. (A single LTE device may not work properly on both AT&T and Verizon Wireless in any case; while both carriers are deploying on the 700 MHz band, the specific frequencies used within those bands is far enough apart that the antenna may have to be tuned to one network or the other for best performance.) Given these circumstances, building a CDMA/EV-DO iPhone is a necessary prelude to any LTE iPhone in the future.

So, now that we have a CDMA iPhone, when will Apple build an LTE iPhone? I think I should probably quit making these sorts of predictions once and for all. Sorry.

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Groupon Super Bowl Ad Makes Fun of Tibet & Whales, Provokes Ridiculous Controversy

Posted: 07 Feb 2011 01:23 PM PST

The group coupon buying site Groupon may have damaged its image forever, thanks to a series of Super Bowl ads that were…actually pretty funny. The first one leads in with Timothy Hutton doing a charity commercial-style introduction about the horrors of Chinese-dominated Tibet…and then abruptly bragging about a groupon deal for dirt cheap Tibetan food. The follow-up ad was a plea from Cuba Gooding Junior to protect the whales…that is almost immediately abandoned because whale-watching is “more fun”.

Both the commercials are fairly well done spoofs of legit charity ads, and there doesn’t really seem to be any malicious intent behind them. Groupon intended them to be a fun way to announce their intent to donate to Greenpeace, The Tibet Fund and other charities. Many found the ads offensive and insensitive, throwing their complaints onto twitter and private blogs by the thousand.

The Tibet video has more dislikes than likes on YouTube, and China is pretty much unhappy with anyone mentioning Tibet for any reason. Which doesn’t bode well for the service’s plans to expand in that region. With any luck, most people will take this for the joke (arguably in poor taste) that it was. But Groupon may have to sweat the fallout from this for a long time to come.

[Via Switched.com]

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SkinDisplay Prints Phone and Text Messages On Skin

Posted: 07 Feb 2011 01:04 PM PST

With mobile phones dominating our lives these days, we seem constantly connected virtually yet ever more easily disconnected in person. To limit this intrusion of mobile distraction from our daily face-to-face connections, a company called Vitamins Design has developed two interesting concepts—Smart Call and SkinDisplay. The latter concept involves printing messages directly on to your skin.

The two projects are sponsored by Research in Motion (RIM)—makers of the BlackBerry—and the Royal College of Art's Helen Hamlyn Center. The first concept, SmartCall, allows callers to indicate the urgency, subject, and deadline to respond for their calls. Although still an initial concept, RIM is already seeking to patent the idea for development.

The seemingly more outlandish concept, SkinDisplay, actually requires a physical mechanism on a phone that could translate digital code into small raised messages on the phone's surface. By then pressing your finger against the raised message you could then imprint the message temporarily onto your skin.

When you get a call during an important business meeting, you can simply reach into your pocket and imprint the caller ID on your finger without ever taking out the phone and risk being impolite.

And apparently with developments in piezoelectric technology, where electricity can deform a material, and the reverse, the SkinDisplay concept may not be as impossible as it seems.

[Via Recombu]

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2% of Soldiers in Afghanistan are Robots

Posted: 07 Feb 2011 12:46 PM PST

Today, in 2011, one out of every fifty soldiers in Afghanistan has battery acid and lubricant instead of blood, sweat and tears. This means that, based on total army enlistment, “robot” is roughly as large a demographic as “asian”. At least among the troops stationed in that theater.

It’s worth noting that most of these droids are very simple, in terms of their higher-functioning capabilities. They work to disable (or set off) explosive devices and inspect vehicles and blaze trails and other dangerous tasks that are best handled by something that doesn’t mind bullets. As it stands, our “AI” programming is too limited to allow any of these robots very much autonomy.

There are plenty of armed robots “over there”, though, and there is a great deal of debate over how they should be used. The Conflict Monitoring Centre reported that the last five years saw as many as 2043 people killed in US drone attacks in North-East Pakistan. The majority were civilians- although identification either way is made difficult by the fact that robots can’t tell the difference between civilian farmers with rifles and dangerous bandits with rifles.

So yeah…maybe those unmanned stealth bombers aren’t the best idea ever.

[Via Wired]

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The New MacBook Pros: February 9?

Posted: 07 Feb 2011 12:00 PM PST

Late last month we reported that low stocks of 15″ and 17″ Macbook Pros might be a sign of an imminent refresh. That shortage has only deepened over the last few days, with some areas reporting 2-3 week waits for new stock. New rumors point to February 9 as the day we’ll see the next-gen Pros unleashed.

The next iteration of the MacBook Pro line was earlier tipped to launch in 1H 2011. The new Mac and MacBook pros will run Sandy Bridge processors. A “mainstream” iMac is also expected to launch during the first half of this year. Four new MacBook Pros gave been tipped.

Intel’s terribly embarrassing Sandy Bridge recall is believed to have delayed the new MacBook Pros and Mac Pros. Apple is reported to have estimated no chance of shipping until March. Intel believes that the fixed chipsets will not be ready in volume until April.

Whatever the truth is, we won’t have to wait long to learn it. If Wednesday passes with no announcement, expect a long wait for the MacBook refresh.

[Via 9to5 Mac]

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iPhone 5 Rumored To Debut June 5th – 9th

Posted: 07 Feb 2011 11:54 AM PST

So the rumor is that the iPhone 5 may be revealed sometime between June 5th and June 9th during Apple’s WWDC 2011 event. This speculation was stirred up after the Moscone Center website published a schedule indicating that a mysterious event dubbed "Corporate Meeting" was booked by Apple for those dates. Apple has traditionally unveiled new generations of their iPhones at the WWDC event each year.

However, there are two other Apple "Corporate Meetings / Events" listed on the Moscone schedule for May 10-11 and June 22-23. It is speculated that the May event could be related to announcements for the iPad 2.

The June 22-23 event seems to be scheduled too closely to the dates of the WWDC for any sort of important announcement, but those dates almost exactly one year after iPhone 4's release.

[Via Cult of Mac]

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Police Find $10 Million in Fake iPhones, Other Gadgets

Posted: 07 Feb 2011 11:38 AM PST

High-tech forgery is the criminal growth industry of the future. As cash money becomes less common and more difficult to imitate, the shady smugglers of our connected future deal in counterfeit devices. Port coppers in Los Angeles recently busted a faux-gadget operation that was responsible for an estimated $7 million in profits. The gadgets seized may have valued as much as $10 million.

Something like an iPhone or an iPod is basically as good as cash. If the price is right, you’ll find buyers. Especially since some of these Chinese knock-offs are actually better than many comparably cheap American devices. As long as you don’t pay Apple prices, these Shenzhen iPods aren’t always a bad deal.

In Spring 2010, some 2,000 counterfeit iPhones were busted flying in to San Francisco. An estimated 81% of all imitation electronics come from mainland China. Some one in five Americans admitted to buying some form of counterfeit good in 2009.

We’re hungry for cheap knock-offs. Which is why this victory by the port police won’t matter much in the end. As long as we keep buying, they’ll keep selling.

[Via Cult of Mac]

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Square: Aiming To Replace Receipts and Registers

Posted: 07 Feb 2011 11:22 AM PST

The folks over at All Things Digital recently caught up with Jack Dorsey, the cofounder of Twitter and the CEO of Square–a company focused on advancing mobile payments. Square's COO, Keith Rabois, demoed the amazingly simple and convenient device while Dorsey shared his thoughts on the future of accepting credit card payments and how Square intends to replace traditional registers and receipts.

Small business owners may benefit the most as they can start accepting payments without the traditional investment in processing equipment and can more quickly transact at trade shows, farmers markets, or just simply on the go. The tiny card swipe accessory—roughly 1-inch squared—easily attaches to an iPhone, iPad, or Android device. Rabois, says that 50,000 to 60,000 new users are signing up each month.

For merchants to sign up, it's as simple as downloading the app to their mobile device, creating an account, and then receiving the Square card swipe accessory in the mail. However, the convenience does come at a cost. Square charges 2.75 percent plus 15 cents for each swiped transaction. Typed in transactions cost slightly more.

Dorsey envisions completely replacing the traditional register checkout process with one more efficient and connected such that a patron could broadcast their location on Twitter and receive loyalty points with one swipe of their card.

He also envisions revolutionizing receipts so that they become useful rather than just throw-aways. Receipts emailed to the patron would display images of the merchant and details of what they purchased, a map of where they purchased the items, links to other relevant information, and would automatically track any rewards cards and points.

[Via All Things Digital]

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SG Comics Presents: Verizon vs. AT&T

Posted: 07 Feb 2011 10:10 AM PST

With Verizon’s CDMA iPhone 4 already in some users’ hands, it’s full steam ahead for Apple’s smartphone. Figuring out whether AT&T or Verizon’s version is right for you, though, means you have to look where you’re going…

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Nokia: E7 sales expectations “by far the most important” in 2011

Posted: 07 Feb 2011 09:55 AM PST

Nokia may have promised a MeeGo device sometime in 2011, but the company is still looking to Symbian for the bulk of its sales this year. According to Nokia VP Ukko Lappalainen, ”the E7 is by far the most important model for us this year when looking at sales expectations,” referring to the QWERTY slider Nokia announced was shipping in select markets earlier today.

The news will come as a disappointment to those hoping 2011 would mark a significant break with tradition, as has been well-rumored since new Nokia CEO Stephen Elop hinted at broad-sweeping platform changes in the company’s recent financial results call. Nonetheless, while a Symbian device may be the mainstay of Nokia’s range this year, future devices may have a far more North American focus.

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TI OMAP 5 outed: twin Cortex-A15 cores, Kinect-style tracking, more

Posted: 07 Feb 2011 09:08 AM PST

Texas Instruments has officially announced the TI OMAP 5 platform, the company’s latest multi-core chipset complete with two 28nm ARM Cortex-A15 MPCores running at up to 2GHz. The new OMAP5430 and OMAP5432 processors offer up to 3x the performance of the previous-gen OMAP4430, with support for Kinect-style gesture recognition, 5x the graphics performance, and the ability to drive up to four simultaneous displays.

As well as running three LCD displays (each up to QSXGA resolution) and an external HDMI 1.4a 3D display, the OMAP 5 processors can handle up to four cameras in parallel, recording  and playing back S3D 1080p HD video. They’re also capable of real-time conversion of 2D content to S3D at 1080p resolution, and – with a TI DLP pico-projector and a camera – can create interactive projections allowing users to “touch and drag” projected images on a table-top or wall.

There’s also USB 3.0 OTG, SATA 2.0, SDXC and object/facial/text recognition, along with support for up to 8GB of memory. TI expects the OMAP5430 and OMAP5432 processors to begin sampling in the second half of 2011, with the first smartphones, tablets and other devices using the chips to hit retail in the second half of 2012.

Press Release:

Not just a faster horse: TI's OMAP™ 5 platform transforms the concept of 'mobile'

New OMAP 5 platform creates disruptive mobile experiences akin to Henry Ford's transformative automobile advancements

Mobile computing, stereoscopic 3D, gesture recognition and computational photography intensified by TI's best-in-class applications platform

Sophisticated multi-core processing, including ARM® Cortex™-A15 MPCore™ processors

DALLAS (Feb. 7, 2011) – Texas Instruments Incorporated (TI) (NYSE: TXN) announced today the next generation of its popular OMAP™ family: the OMAP 5 mobile applications platform, which is positioned to transform how mobile devices, such as Smartphones, tablets and other mobile form factors are used, making them even more valuable in our daily lives. More information on the OMAP 5 platform can be found here: www.ti.com/wbu_omap5_pr_lp.

Imagine carrying only one productivity tool while in the office, on the road or at home – a single mobile device which provides PC-like computing performance with mobile power levels. Imagine using the same device to conduct a stereoscopic 3D (S3D) video conference for work. Imagine being in a meeting and projecting a document from this device, which you can edit by simply touching the projected image on a surface. Imagine going home and switching the device to your personal operating system to drive a next-generation game on your HDTV using wireless display technology. These capabilities are only highlights of what the TI OMAP 5 platform uniquely delivers. To see more experiences enabled by the OMAP 5 platform, view a video here: www.ti.com/wbu_omap5_pr_v.

Highest performance, lowest power…yet again
The 28 nanometer OMAP 5 applications processors carry on the OMAP family tradition of delivering significant increases in performance and functionality, while lowering power consumption compared to their predecessors. Specifically, they offer up to 3x processing performance and five-fold 3D graphics improvement, yet provide a nearly 60 percent average power reduction compared to a sample user experience on the OMAP 4 platform. Additionally, the OMAP 5 platform's software is designed for maximum reuse to ease migration from the OMAP 4 platform.

"The next decade will bring a revolution in mobile computing, as devices continue to converge, attempting to become one single device that meets all of our computing, entertainment, and complex day-to-day needs and interests. However, the bridge to true mobile computing enablement was missing until today. The OMAP 5 platform will be at the heart of driving the mobile computing revolution by delivering the highest computing, graphics and multimedia performance possible within the low power budget required by mobile form factors," said Remi El-Ouazzane, vice president, OMAP platform business unit, TI.

Sophisticated, multi-core processing: harmonized for the best possible user experience
The OMAP 5 processor leverages two ARM® Cortex™-A15 MPCores™ – the most advanced ARM architecture to date – capable of speeds of up to 2 GHz per core in the OMAP 5 implementation. With a 50 percent boost in performance over the Cortex-A9 core (at the same clock frequency), combined with up to 8GB of dynamic memory access and hardware virtualization support, the Cortex-A15 core can enable true mobile computing experiences, such as the ones referenced above.

The OMAP 5 architecture utilizes an intelligent combination of many different processing cores – each tailored and power-optimized for specific functions – and all harmonized to provide the best possible user experience. In addition to the two Cortex-A15 cores, the OMAP 5 processor includes individual, dedicated engines for: video, imaging and vision, DSP, 3D graphics, 2D graphics, display and security. The processor also includes two ARM Cortex-M4 processors for offloading real-time processing from the Cortex-A15 cores to improve low-level control and responsiveness of mobile devices.

"We continue to see high performance mobile devices, such as advanced Smartphones and tablets, requiring increased processor performance while remaining within the restricted mobile power consumption boundaries," said Mike Inglis, EVP and general manager of the ARM Processor Division. "The OMAP 5 processor highlights the advantage of the ARM business model. The relationship enables product differentiation through the integration of low power multi-core ARM processor cores with the partners' own system-on-chip technologies, including power management, audio and video processing. ARM is proud to have contributed to the OMAP 5 platform, which enables OEM customers to leverage the extensive ARM software ecosystem to quickly deliver innovative new mobile solutions."

Next-generation natural user interfaces
Natural user interfaces (NUI) – how we interact with the world around us in an intuitive, natural way – are taken to the next level with the OMAP 5 platform's advanced support for S3D, gesturing (including proximity sensing), and interactive projection.

The OMAP 5 processor can support up to four cameras in parallel, as well as record and play back S3D video in 1080p quality, and perform real-time conversion of 2D content to S3D at 1080p resolution. The new processor can also deliver advanced short- and long-range gesturing applications, as well as full-body and multi-body interactive gestures, utilizing either 2D or S3D cameras. The OMAP 5 processor, coupled with a TI DLP® Pico™ projector and a camera, can also enable interactive projection where the user can actually "touch and drag" projected images on both a table top or wall.

Additionally, the OMAP 5 processor can interface with and leverage a wide variety of sensor technologies to enable touchless sensing, such as proximity sensing, capacitive sensing and ultrasonic sensing.

Computational photography – the industry's next frontier
Today, most mobile devices are equipped with built-in cameras; however, due to the physical limitations of the device, picture and video quality is not on par with stand-alone consumer electronic products, such as digital SLR cameras. In order to close this quality gap, computational algorithms are used to compensate for these limitations. The OMAP 5 processor includes hardware and software resources that enable the development and deployment of such algorithms, such as camera stabilization, motion blur reduction, noise reduction, high dynamic range and face-based processing. The new processor also goes a step further by using the same OMAP 5 hardware resources with vision algorithms to extract features and data from the picture, in order to implement applications such as face recognition, object recognition and text recognition. These vision capabilities can also be used as the foundation for many different and exciting augmented reality applications.

Industry's best all-around applications processor platform
The OMAP 5 platform sports an impressive list of features and benefits supporting everything from open source platforms to complementary TI technologies, including:

Strengthening the OMAP 5 platform's value, TI leverages its open source community involvement to benefit customer product development. Early extensive work in community projects translates to a significant quality and schedule advantage for device manufacturers, including power, memory and performance optimization. Additionally, TI's pre-integrated software packages for popular Linux-based distributions help manufacturers achieve maximum system-level performance while driving a faster time-to-market.

Availability
TI's OMAP 5 platform is expected to sample in the second half of 2011, with devices on the market in the second half of 2012. The OMAP5430 processor is offered in a 14x14mm Package-on-Package (PoP) with LPDDR2 memory support. The OMAP5432 processor is offered in a 17x17mm BGA package with DDR3/DDR3L memory support.

These products are intended for high-volume mobile OEMs and ODMs and are not available through distributors. TI also plans to develop compatible ARM Cortex-A15 processor-based solutions for broader market applications across TI's product portfolio.

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Sprint dual-touchscreen Kyocera Echo unveiled today?

Posted: 07 Feb 2011 08:37 AM PST

Sprint’s surprise device later today will be a dual-touchscreen Android smartphone with a clever pivoting hinge, according to the latest leaks, with the double displays used for multitasking. That’s the word from the WSJ‘s sources, who claim the Kyocera Echo smartphone will bridge the handset and tablet segments.

Functionally, the Echo is expected to either multitask, with an app to each display, or to allow items to be dragged between panes. The hinge – which we’re assuming is a double-jointed arrangement – will apparently allow the Echo to be folded with one screen flat behind the other, turning it into a more traditional single-touchscreen device.

The whole concept sounds similar to what Fujitsu showed off in prototype form at last year’s CEATEC, shown above, though obviously a whole lot more commercially-ready. However, the WSJ suggests the Kyocera Echo will be 3G-only, rather than use Sprint’s 4G WiMAX network. SlashGear will be at the Sprint event later today, so we’ll be bringing you back all the details no matter what the carrier unveils.

[via Android Community]

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Last.fm demands premium radio subscriptions for iOS, Android & more

Posted: 07 Feb 2011 07:58 AM PST

Last.fm has announced mandatory paid subscription plans for mobile and home entertainment devices accessing its streaming radio service, with the new premium subscriptions affecting anybody listening on their Android or iOS device, or indeed via Logitech’s Squeezebox system. According to the company “it is not practical for us to deliver an ad supported radio experience” beyond the website and desktop app, though Windows Phone 7 users will still get free service in 2011.

Full list of affected devices after the cut

If you only use Last.fm for scrobbling, music and event recommendations, social networking and community forums, and the wiki-based artist information pages, you can still access those free no matter the platform. Similarly, Xbox Live users in the US and UK will get radio service with their Microsoft accounts.

Full details of all the platforms impacted are in the list below. Subscriptions are $3/£3/€3 per month.

Google Android - free app; subscription required for radio in US, UK and Germany
Apple iPhone – free app; subscription required for radio in US, UK and Germany
Microsoft X-Box Live (also with Kinect) – App free with X-Box Live Membership in US and UK
Microsoft Windows Mobile 7 – Free in 2011 in US and UK; subscription required for radio in Germany
All Logitech Squeezebox products – subscription required in US, UK and Germany
All Sonos products – Free until mid-summer 2011 for US, UK and Germany; subscription required thereafter
Revo AXiS, Ikon, Domino, Heritage – subscription required in US, UK and Germany
Roberts Stream 63i, 205, Colourstream, 83i – subscription required in US
M3 Muvid Products – subscription required in Germany
Teufel Audio Raumfeld – subscription required in UK and Germany
Selected Onkyo AV receivers – subscription required in US, UK and Germany
Denon and Marantz selected AV receivers – subscription required in UK and Germany

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Samsung PL20 and ES80 budget point-and-shoots revealed

Posted: 07 Feb 2011 07:44 AM PST

Samsung has outed a pair of new digital cameras, the PL20 and ES80, each priced at under $120 but still offering up to 14-megapixel resolution. The Samsung PL20 is the most interesting of the two, with a 14-megapixel CCD, 5x optical zoom, 720p HD video recording and digital image stabilization.

The Samsung ES80 lacks the video recording functionality and only has a 12-megapixel CCD, but it still gets stabilization and a 5x optical zoom. Each camera also has Samsung’s various smart-auto modes, including face detection, smile shot, beauty shot – the 21st century equivalent of smearing Vaseline on the lens – and an intelligent self-portrait mode.

Neither will change the world of photography, but neither will they break the bank. THe Samsung PL20 will be priced at $119.99 when it drops in March, while the Samsung ES80 will be $99.99 when it arrives in April.

Press Release:

Samsung Launches the Value Packed PL20 and ES80 Compact Cameras

Samsung innovations put the fun and simplicity into taking and sharing photos

SEOUL, Korea – February 7, 2011 – Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd, a global leader in digital media and digital convergence technologies, today announced two new compact cameras, the PL20 and ES80 –stylish point-and-shoot cameras which will bring fun and great quality photography to everyone. The cameras make clear, sharp images accessible to all users, through a combination of high-quality features and cutting edge innovation, all at an affordable price.

The PL20 packs a 14-megapixel sensor, a 27mm wide angle and a 5x optical zoom, plus HD movie recording, into a simple to use and stylish device. It also removes the need for the ongoing purchase of AA batteries with a unique Li-ion rechargeable battery to keep the fun lasting longer.

The ES80 provides another smart point-and-shoot option for consumers who seek affordability and value in their camera technology. The camera offers easy-to-use features such as an internal charging system which helps to ensure that power isn't lost at that crucial photo moment. The ES80 also boasts 12-megapixel resolution and a 5x optical zoom to make taking great quality images effortlessly simple.

Both the PL20 and the ES80 come in four vibrant colors – Silver, Tomato Red, Pink and Black – meaning there's a model to suit every taste.

"The PL20 and ES80 are fantastic point-and-shoot cameras, designed to create a fun and easy photography experience which can be enjoyed by everyone," said Mr. Hyunho Chung, executive vice president and head of the Digital Imaging Business, Samsung Electronics. "Together they make taking great pictures simple and fun for any photographer, and are driven by our desire to add value for users while retaining an affordable price. The PL20 and ES80 are further evidence of Samsung's commitment to meeting the needs of each and every photographer out there, regardless of their level of expertise or their budget."

Smart Auto selection

Both cameras include Samsung's innovative Smart Auto feature, with multiple modes for automatically selecting the best setting for the photographer's chosen theme, and automatically adjusting that mode to match with the surroundings in which you're shooting. So no matter if you're taking pictures during the day or at night, in portrait or landscape, the cameras produce beautiful photos.

HD Movie and Special Effects on the move

The PL20's ability to record 720p HD quality movies at 24 frames per second means even if you leave your camcorder at home, the PL20 can fill the gaps easily, and with a high quality result. The PL20 also includes Samsung's Smart Filter technology – artistic filters in modes such as 'fish-eye', 'miniature' and 'sketch' – so you can add special effects to your pictures in an instant.

Powerful Portrait technology

The ES80 packs a number of additional features into the affordable model. Face Detection automatically detects and recognizes up to 10 different faces at the same time, guaranteeing that your favorite faces will be focused, even when taking a group picture. Beauty Shot adjusts brightness and face tone, and Smile and Blink detection mean that if your eyes are closed during shooting, the camera will automatically shoot another shot for you. The Self Portrait feature automatically focuses on your face and emits a guiding sound, so you know when it's ready to shoot with you in the frame for great shots!

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Nokia CEO weighing “Finnish talent” value as board hangs in balance

Posted: 07 Feb 2011 06:42 AM PST

Rumors of an imminent cull across the Nokia board continue to make headlines, with CEO Stephen Elop reportedly considering “how much he wants to keep Finnish talent in the leadership team” in what’s being described as an essential play “to take advantage of the North American consumer.” Following initial reports over the weekend of the impending executive shake-up – which could see executive VP of phones Mary MacDowell and executive VP of markets Niklas Savander both lose their jobs – the WSJ has stepped in with further sources claiming Elop is prioritizing a North American focus for Nokia moving forward.

According to a second source, Nokia narrowed down a shortlist of potential North American leaders within the last six months but Elop decided to “put the whole thing on hold while he figured out the new management structure.” Rumors of a platform change have proliferated after the CEO admitted Nokia “must build, catalyse or join a competitive ecosystem” and reframe itself as a “challenger” in the smartphone market.

The leaks could herald ominous changes for Nokia, and for those fans of the company who respond to its European flavor of design and product identity. However, no source has been able to conclusively confirm that Nokia plans to either abandon one of its currently favored OSes – Symbian and MeeGo – or indeed adopt a third-party platform such as Android or Windows Phone 7.

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Huawei teases S7 Slim tablet ahead of MWC 2011 reveal

Posted: 07 Feb 2011 06:33 AM PST

Details are scant right now, but Huawei has joined the line-up of manufacturers teasing a new tablet for MWC 2011. The Huawei S7 Slim is presumably an updated, svelte version of the original S7 we looked at back in November 2010, more than likely running Android and carrying a relatively budget price tag.

Full specifications – including processor and OS version – are unknown, though given the name a 7-inch display seems likely. Hopefully that’s a capacitive panel rather than the S7′s resistive touchscreen; there’s also what looks to be a front-facing webcam, but fewer physical controls than we saw on the S7 Slim’s predecessor.

Huawei is making a name for itself offering low-cost alternatives to big-brand smartphones, and the S7 Slim should hopefully ratchet up the pressure in the tablet segment too. We’ll be bringing back all the details from MWC 2011 next week.

[via Android Community]

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HTC invests in digital media delivery specialists Saffron Digital; HTC Sense to get games, music, more?

Posted: 07 Feb 2011 06:02 AM PST

HTC‘s digital media ambitions continue to progress, with the company picking up investing in digital multimedia delivery specialists Saffron Digital. According to HTC CEO Peter Chou, the “ability to deliver optimised content in the future will be a key asset,” and HTC will use the company’s skills to “increase our global service delivery capabilities and expertise.” The news follows suggestions that HTC saw its Sense experience spreading to the living room and other areas.

Saffron Digital already supplies – and will continue to support – Nokia, Sony Ericsson, HTC, LG and Samsung with DRM-encrypted media products, and has existing contracts with Sony Pictures, NBC Universal, Paramount, 20th Century Fox, Sky, T-Mobile and Vodafone. The company already has plans to offer games and music services.

Press Release:

HTC MAKES STRATEGIC INVESTMENT IN SAFFRON DIGITAL, A LEADER IN DIGITAL MULTIMEDIA DELIVERY

Taoyuan, Taiwan, Feb 7, 2011 – HTC, a global leader in mobile innovation and design, today announced it is making a strategic investment in London-based Saffron Digital, a global leader in digital multimedia delivery.

"Saffron Digital has developed an incredible expertise in mobile multimedia delivery. This ability to deliver optimised content in the future will be a key asset as content becomes more and more complex and localised, " said Peter Chou, CEO of HTC Corporation. "We are excited to be working with Saffron to increase our global service delivery capabilities and expertise."

Saffron Digital has experienced a phenomenally successful year with its innovative technology integrated into products and services in Europe by HTC, LG, Paramount Digital Entertainment, Sony Ericsson, T-Mobile and Nokia, among others, and in the US by Samsung. It has entered into partnerships with industry-leading companies such as Microsoft, and Widevine, to ensure that customers are given the best possible video experience across a range of devices.

"HTC's investment increases our global expansion capabilities and provides us with an opportunity to expand into new markets like Asia and new sectors like games and music delivery," says Shashi Fernando, CEO of Saffron Digital. "We have grown Saffron Digital into one of the best and most exciting digital service providers in the world and this enables us to take digital content delivery to a new level for our customers around the world."

Saffron Digital will continue to provide its cutting edge media and content services to its third party partners, which include device manufacturers, network operators and content providers in 26 countries. The company's headquarters will remain in London and Los Angeles while its management team will continue unchanged.

About Saffron Digital
Saffron Digital is a global mobile delivery platform company, whose products and services are live in 26 countries and 14 languages. Its proprietary technologies, which include the ability to support multi-device media delivery, superfast encoding and Domain Based DRM, have been integrated into products by clients including Nokia, Sony Ericsson, HTC, LG and Samsung, as well as services for Sony Pictures, NBC Universal, Paramount, 20th Century Fox, Sky, T Mobile and Vodafone. Shareholders in the company include Beringea, NewSmith Capital and Duet Asset Management.

Saffron Digital is listed in the Deloitte Technology Fast 50 and Technology Fast 500 EMEA for 2010, and also won the Best Video Service Provider at this year's Mobile Entertainment awards.

About HTC
HTC Corporation (HTC) is one of the fastest growing companies in the mobile phone industry. By putting people at the center of everything it does, HTC creates innovative smartphones that better serve the lives and needs of individuals. The company is listed on the Taiwan Stock Exchange under ticker 2498. For more information about HTC, please visit www.htc.com.

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Gingerbread rebaked as Android 2.4 in April for dual-core app support?

Posted: 07 Feb 2011 05:47 AM PST

ViewSonic has tipped Google’s hand on an incoming update to Android, though it’s not the Ice Cream Sandwich we’ve been waiting for. According to Pocket-lint‘s source at the company, Google’s engineers expect to release Android 2.4 in April 2011 under the Gingerbread name, with the only change being support for dual-core apps on single-core devices like the Nexus S.

The update would mean that titles coded to run on Android 3.0 Honeycomb devices, like Motorola’s XOOM tablet, which have dual-core processors, would also be compatible with handsets using single-core chips. That’s not currently the case with Android 2.3 or earlier, potentially opening up another fragmentation issue for the Nexus S and other devices.

Interestingly, the speculation – so far unconfirmed by Google – fits in with information passed to Android Community back in January, which suggested that Google had requested manufacturers hold off from offering Android 2.3 Gingerbread devices or updates until the start of Q2 2011. At the time it was suggested that Google’s ambition was to give the Nexus S an artificial window in which to retain its flagship status, though it now seems possible that Google engineers were in fact hard at work readying v2.4 instead.

It’s not the first time we’ve heard of Android 2.4, either; Sony Ericsson was forced to describe screenshots showing the XPERIA Arc running the unannounced version as a “misconfiguration” glitch. Meanwhile Ice Cream, ViewSonic’s loose-lipped source suggests, won’t be with us until Android 3.1 is released, following Honeycomb’s official debut.

[via Android Community]

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Haptica Brail watch designs by David Chavez seeks funding on Kickstarter

Posted: 07 Feb 2011 05:31 AM PST

We see all sorts of watches that are expensive and really cool around these parts. The thing that they all have had in common is that they are for people that can see. Those with no eyesight or impaired eyesight can’t use a normal watch to tell time.

A new concept watch by designer Davis Chavez called the Haptica Braille Watch has turned up and is seeking some serious funding on Kickstarter. The watchmaker is looking to get $150,000 to start his project and bring it to market.

The Haptica watch uses Braille on the face to let the wearer feel the time and the thing looks cool too. So far, the project has raised over $35,000 and has 25 days to raise the full $150,000. See more below in the official here.

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HP TouchSmart 610 and 9300 Elite all-in-ones get deep-tilting desk stand

Posted: 07 Feb 2011 05:21 AM PST

HP has outed a pair of new TouchSmart all-in-one PCs, the HP TouchSmart 610 Consumer PC and HP TouchSmart 9300 Elite Business PC, each of which feature a new reclining hinge that allows them to tilt back by up to 60-degrees for easier desktop use. Each new TouchSmart has a 23-inch LED-backlit HD display (the 610 gets Beats audio, too), and HP reckons that, because of the flexible mount, they’ll be a hit with families wanting to share multimedia and with businesses wanting to interact with customers on the same display.

The HP TouchSmart 610 comes preloaded with the company’s TouchSmart UI, while the TouchSmart 9300 Elite makes do with pure Windows 7. The 9300 can also be specified with up to 16GB of RAM and a 160GB SSD, and there’s facial-recognition using the adjustable webcam.

HP expects the TouchSmart 610 Consumer PC to arrive first, this coming Wednesday, February 9 in fact, priced from $899.99. The HP TouchSmart 9300 Business PC will follow on in May, pricing tba.

Press Release:

HP Redesigns the TouchSmart PC Experience

HP TouchSmart PCs offer high style and performance with reclining display for exceptional comfort

PALO ALTO, Calif., Feb. 7, 2011

HP today unveiled its first touchscreen desktop PCs to feature a 60-degree reclining display, enabling users to adjust the display's position for a comfortable user experience.

With a sleek, clean appearance, the new HP TouchSmart610 Consumer PC and HP TouchSmart 9300 Elite Business PC recline from upright to almost flat, providing consumers and business users increased comfort for longer-term use and making it easier for businesses to engage customers.

"As a leader in touch computing, HP has made each iteration of the TouchSmart PC more intuitive, resourceful and fun for users," said James Mouton, senior vice president, Desktop Organization, Personal Systems Group, HP. "The latest generation is no exception with a new design that makes it easier and more comfortable to use, and it allows businesses to integrate the TouchSmart where convenience, space constraints and appearance matter."

Ergonomic design enables users to do more and share more

From creating art projects, to playing games, to enabling natural front-desk interaction where eye contact is important, the new HP TouchSmart PCs offer consumers and businesses increased range of motion, superior viewing and an intuitive touch experience.

Both the TouchSmart610 Consumer PC and TouchSmart 9300 Elite Business PC feature a 23-inch diagonal high-definition (HD) display(1) that reclines up to 60 degrees and tilts forward up to five degrees.

The wide-angle, LED backlit LCD screen provides optimal viewing angles, even when reclined, while advanced multitouch technology allows for an accurate response.

The TouchSmart PCs' simple one-cord setup and slim, all-in-one design save space and allow them to fit into any room or business environment. For a clean and uncluttered appearance, control features are conveniently located to the right and left sides of the display.

Intuitive software, Beats Audio for immersive, personalized entertainment

With its refined industrial design and the latest version of HP TouchSmart software, the TouchSmart610 consumer PC makes it easier and more comfortable than ever to surf the web, edit photos or access social networks.(2)

In addition to touch-optimized applications from Hulu, Netflix, Rhapsody® and Twitter, as well as HP's exclusive RecipeBox and webcam applications, users can add new applications via the TouchSmart Apps Center.(2) The TouchSmart610 also features Beats Audio™. A high-performance technology developed by HP and Beats by Dr. Dre™, Beats Audio allows listeners to hear music the way the artist intended it – just as it sounds in the studio.

For the gaming enthusiast, select models of the TouchSmart610 are available with Ubisoft®'s real-time strategy game, R.U.S.E.™ – a $49.99 value. Users will enjoy using multitouch navigation to deceive and manipulate enemies as they lead their nation to victory.

The TouchSmart610 also features the new HP LinkUp application, which allows users to wirelessly link a notebook PC to the TouchSmart using a home network.(3) Accessing and viewing applications, files and content from a notebook on the TouchSmart's large HD screen creates a more comfortable and productive experience.(1) Changes are saved directly to the notebook so there are no file transfer hassles.

Innovative touchscreen PC technology for businesses

Ideal for customer-facing environments in hospitality, retail and healthcare, the HP TouchSmart 9300 Elite Business PC combines HP's powerful touchscreen technology with essential business benefits. Businesses can configure the TouchSmart 9300 to meet a variety of workplace preferences, including desk or counter positioning, wall mount(4) or kiosk placement.

The TouchSmart 9300 delivers superb computing performance with second-generation Intel® Core™ processors and a choice of Windows® 7 operating systems. It also offers up to 16 gigabytes (GB)(5) of memory and an optional 160 GB(5) solid-state drive to enhance productivity and interaction with touchscreen applications. In addition, employees can log in using the HP TouchSmart Elite 9300 Business PC's high-resolution, adjustable webcam(2) with facial recognition software for enhanced security.

The HP Interactive Solutions Partner Program for independent software vendors (ISVs) delivers touch-based customer solutions to businesses. Tikatok, a division of Barnes & Noble, has piloted several interactive kiosks as part of Barnes & Noble's new Educational Toys & Games department. The kiosk, designed as a life-size book, features an interactive demo of Tikatok's proprietary online application. The demo is hosted on HP TouchSmart PCs and allows children to try out the book creation module or read books that other children have created at Tikatok.com.

Chico's FAS, which offers women's clothing and accessories through Chico's, White House|Black Market and Soma Intimates stores, has rolled out HP Business TouchSmart PCs in almost 1,100 stores. The PCs provide one-touch application access, enhanced employee training sessions with full-motion video and a technology platform for management packages.

Pricing and availability(6)

The HP TouchSmart610 Consumer PC is expected to be available on Feb. 9 in the United States at a starting price of $899.99. The HP TouchSmart 9300 Business PC is expected to be available in May in the United States; pricing will be provided closer to availability.

Additional information is available at www.hp.com/personal.

24/7 service and support

HP PCs are backed by HP Total Care, the company's award-winning service, solutions and support, both in and out of warranty. With HP Total Care, consumers can reach support agents 24/7 by phone or online support options like the HP consumer support forum, which features mobile functionality that allows visitors to browse content and post questions or comments from any mobile device, no download required.

HP PCs also come with built-in support through the HP Support Assistant, a simple software application that allows PCs to run smoothly right from the start. The software maintains PC performance and resolves problems with automated updates and tune-ups, onboard diagnostics and guided assistance.

About HP

HP creates new possibilities for technology to have a meaningful impact on people, businesses, governments and society. The world's largest technology company, HP brings together a portfolio that spans printing, personal computing, software, services and IT infrastructure to solve customer problems. More information about HP (NYSE: HPQ) is available at http://www.hp.com/.

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DIY Android mascot crochet figure is cool

Posted: 07 Feb 2011 05:17 AM PST

I am not the artsy craft sort. My grandmother was serious crochet machine and she could crochet like the wind. It was like watching one of those continuous feed printers going at it. If you can crochet or are willing to learn, you can make your own Android mascot using the instructions that have turned up online.

The company offering the instructions is bethsco blog and they sell finished bots too. The catch is that the robots are backordered for 2-3 weeks. This is where the DIY action comes in. The site offers the instructions for making your own.

You need some green yarn, an H hook, and some time. The finished droid mascot stands 5.5″ tall and looks cool. The only thing the site asks is that you don't sell the finished product or sell the pattern. I want one with human thumbs grafted on.

Via Android Community

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Verizon iPhone TeleNav GPS App Available Now

Posted: 07 Feb 2011 05:01 AM PST

Popular and ever-expanding GPS location and mapping service TeleNav is newly available today on Verizon’s iPhone 4. TeleNav is now a free app in the Apple App Store – this app will only be activated for download following the expected launch of Verizon’s iPhone 4 on February 10. Users who download this app will receive free maps and local search in addition to free access to advanced navigation features like spoken turn-by-turn directions and fabulous 3D moving maps.

These features will be available for the first 30 days after download at which point the advanced navigation features will switch over to pay-as-you-go costs of $2.99 per month or $21.99 per year. On the other hand, GPS map and local search capabilities remain free either way.

Some of the Advanced Navigation features you’ll be receiving if you continue with the subscription service are thus:

• Spoken Turn-by-Turn Directions with Street Names
• 2D and 3D Moving Maps – view in your choice of either, zoom in or out, both options moving in real time as you advance down the map.
• Automatic Reroute – in case of an obstruction.
• Automatic Map Updates – at no additional update cost and totally automatic.
• Nighttime Optimized Navigation – automatic brightness adjustment based on the time of day
• iOS Multitasking Support — TeleNav runs in the background whilst other iPhone apps work in the foreground (like music, for example.)

TeleNav is designed to work with the user to provide as personalized an experience as possible – which is great since leading a fellow around to the places he’s gotta go is about the most personal thing a program can do! Some of the personalization features included in this version of TeleNav are:

• Shake-to-Go – Shake your phone at any point while TeleNav is open to change your destination back to whichever place you’ve designated as “Home.”
• My Favorites – Save a list of your most visited places for easy access.
• My Contacts – Use your contact list’s addresses to find your friends homes and give them a visit!
• Route Preferences – Avoiding HOV lanes, Toll Roads, and just about any other sort of undesirable road condition by telling your TeleNav what your driving preferences are.
• iPod Control – In-app iPod controls allow users to search songs, artists, or playlists from within TeleNav GPS.

Local Search is one of the primary elements in TeleNav GPS in that its both comprehensive and completely up-to-date. You’ll find over 22 million local listings in the USA including businesses, landmarks, airports, ATMs, movie theaters and more. Automatic updates and detailed listings make this experience as accurate and enjoyable as possible. Local Search is available in both the free and the subscription versions of TeleNav GPS for iPhone.

Check out the full press release below:

TeleNav GPS™ Navigation and Local Search App Launching for
iPhone® 4 on Verizon Wireless
Advanced Turn-by-Turn Navigation Features Available for Free for First 30 Days After Download

Sunnyvale, Calif. – Feb. 7, 2011 – TeleNav, Inc. (NASDAQ: TNAV), one of the largest global wireless location-based services providers, today announced that TeleNav GPS (http://www.telenav.com/gps-navigator/apple-iphone/verizon/ ) will be available on the Apple® App Store as a free download on the iPhone 4 on Verizon Wireless upon certification following the expected device launch on February 10, 2011. Individuals who download TeleNav GPS will receive free maps and local search capabilities, as well as free access to advanced navigation features, such as spoken turn-by-turn directions and 3D moving maps, for the first 30 days after download. Following the free 30-day period, customers may continue using the advanced navigation features for a pay-as-you-go cost of $2.99 per month or $21.99 per year. Alternatively, they can choose to use only GPS map and local search capabilities for free.

"We designed this app and the pricing structure to give people a choice when it comes to meeting their GPS needs," said Sal Dhanani, co-founder and vice president of products for TeleNav. "Users can choose to use the app as a free map and local search application, or choose to upgrade and buy the advanced turn-by-turn navigation features. Our goal is to make it easy for people to find where to go and how to get there with the best choice in personalized navigation."

Advanced Navigation Features
Users choosing to pay $2.99 per month or $21.99 per year for the advanced TeleNav GPS navigation experience will have access to features including:

· Spoken Turn-by-Turn Directions with Street Names – Unlike basic map applications that show a static route on a map, when using the advanced navigation features available with TeleNav GPS, users receive spoken turn-by-turn directions with street names to guide them to their destination.

· 2D and 3D Moving Maps – Users can see their current location and nearby streets with accurate, moving maps viewable in 2D or 3D with zoom in and out options.

· Automatic Reroute – TeleNav GPS users don't have to worry about missing a turn while navigating. The application will quickly update the route and redirect them to their destination.

· Automatic Map Updates – TeleNav GPS features regular map updates to ensure that users are being routed using the most up-to-date maps available. Updates are automatic, so users aren't required to perform a manual installation or buy updated content.

· Nighttime Optimized Navigation – TeleNav GPS adjusts brightness levels to make viewing easier during nighttime driving.

· iOS Multitasking Support—Users can access and use other iPhone applications with TeleNav GPS navigating in the background.

A Personalized Navigation Experience
The advanced TeleNav GPS navigation option also includes a number of personalized features designed to make the navigation experience unique for each user. These features include:

· Shake-to-Go – Allows users to simply shake their iPhone 4 while using TeleNav GPS and they will automatically be routed to a location they have previously set as their home address.

· My Favorites – Users can easily save the locations they visit most often, or would like to visit, for instant access to their favorite places.

· My Contacts – TeleNav GPS connects to contacts stored in the user's iPhone 4.

· Route Preferences – Users have the option to receive routes based on their driving preferences, such as avoiding HOV lanes and Toll Roads.

· iPod Control – TeleNav GPS users can play their favorite songs while navigating, using enhanced, in-app iPod controls with the ability to search through songs, artists, or playlists from within TeleNav GPS.

More Comprehensive Local Search
TeleNav GPS makes it easy to find where to go and how to get there with accurate, fast, and comprehensive local search. Whether customers choose the advanced navigation experience or the free maps and local search option, they will have access to:

· More Than 22 Million Local Listings in the U.S. – TeleNav GPS provides easy local search capabilities for business locations, historical landmarks, airports, ATMs, movie theaters and more.

· Automatic Listing Updates – TeleNav GPS local search listings are automatically updated to ensure the listings are accurate and new listings are added regularly.

· Detailed Listing Information – Local listings include detailed information to help users make more educated decisions such as ratings, reviews and merchant info.

"We're constantly monitoring the accuracy and breadth of our local search," said Dhanani. "We are committed to offering the best experience for customers as they prepare to hit the road and drive to their destination. We'll continue to update TeleNav GPS on the iPhone 4 and offer new features to enhance our customers' experience."

Availability
TeleNav GPS will be available on the Apple App Store as a free download upon certification following the expected device launch on February 10, 2011. The app is free to download and includes free access to advanced navigation features for the first 30 days. Individuals interested in receiving an e-mail notification when TeleNav GPS becomes available on the Apple App Store should visit http://www.telenav.com/gps-navigator/apple-iphone/verizon/ to sign up.

About TeleNav, Inc.
TeleNav, Inc. is a leading provider of consumer location-based services (LBS), enterprise LBS and automotive LBS with more than 20 million paying subscribers as of December 31, 2010. TeleNav’s solutions provide consumers, wireless service providers, enterprises and automakers with location-specific, real-time, personalized services such as GPS navigation, local search, mobile advertising, mobile commerce, location tracking and workflow automation. TeleNav’s technology is available across more than 600 types of mobile phones, all major mobile phone operating systems and a broad range of wireless network protocols. TeleNav’s service providers and partners include AT&T, Bell Mobility, Boost Mobile, China Mobile, Cincinnati Bell, Ford Motor Company, NII Holdings, Rogers, Sprint Nextel, Telcel, T-Mobile UK, T-Mobile USA, U.S. Cellular, Verizon Wireless and Vivo Brazil.

For more information on TeleNav, please visit www.telenav.com. Follow TeleNav on Twitter at www.twitter.com/telenav or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/telenav.

###

Copyright 2011 TeleNav, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

“TeleNav," the TeleNav logo, and “telenav.com” are registered and unregistered trademarks and/or service marks of TeleNav, Inc., unless otherwise noted, all other trademarks, service marks, and logos used in this press release are the trademarks, service marks or logos of their respective owners.

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Alcatel-Lucent lightRadio promises tiny 2G/3G/4G cell base-stations

Posted: 07 Feb 2011 04:49 AM PST

Cellular base-stations generally aren’t all that interesting or visually endearing, but at least Alcatel-Lucent’s new lightRadio technology promises to make them easier to ignore. Billed as a way to break down existing base stations into a combination of individual antenna and cloud-based components, rather than demanding multiple 2G, 3G and 4G antennas the lightRadio system has a single, 5cm cube with a software-defined radio.

That single radio supports 2G, 3G and LTE, and can be tuned to suit everything from 400MHz to 4GHz. It’s connected to the rest of the system via a fiber optic broadband link, with power courtesy of a custom Freescale SoC, using new compression technology that reduces bandwidth requirements and allows everything to be crunched in an HP-powered cloud system of network controllers and gateways. Multiple cubes can be stacked to boost macro coverage.

In short, it’s more flexible than traditional base stations, can be deployed in a smaller space, is up to 50-percent more power efficient and can be 50-percent cheaper, all the while doubling capacity. The first active array antennas will be launched in 2012, with more hardware in 2014, and Alcatel-Lucent envisage future setups using off-grid power (like localized wind or solar generators) together with microwave links to create truly independent coverage spots. Orange, Verizon and France Telecom have all expressed an interest, and Alcatel-Lucent says it’s in planning with several carriers – including China Mobile – to roll out field trials.

[via Light Reading]

Press Release:

The Disappearing Mobile Masts and Towers

lightRadio™ – Solving Network Gridlock and Universal High-Speed Coverage

PARIS & LONDON, February 7, 2011 – The looming global gridlock in mobile communications promises to be averted following the launch today of pioneering technology which will remove the bottlenecks constraining mobile networks and help deliver universal broadband coverage.

Alcatel-Lucent (Euronext Paris and NYSE: ALU), the leading network technology group, has joined forces with industry partners to develop lightRadio™, a new system that signals the end of the mobile industry's reliance on masts and base stations around the world.

Ben Verwaayen, Chief Executive Officer of Alcatel-Lucent, said: "Today's and tomorrow's demands for coverage and capacity require a breakthrough in mobile communications."

He added: "lightRadio will signal the end of the basestation and the cell tower as we know it today."

Governments and regulatory bodies are expected to welcome the technical development, which will help meet targets for universal broadband access by laying the foundation to address the so-called "digital divide."

Other major benefits from lightRadio™ include:

• Shrinking the carbon footprint of mobile networks by over 50%

• Reducing the Total-Cost-of-Ownership of mobile operators by up to 50%

• Improving end user services by significantly increasing bandwidth per user thanks to the deployment of small antennas everywhere

Wim Sweldens, President of Alcatel-Lucent's Wireless Division said: "lightRadio will help mobile operators evolve their networks to address the mobile broadband deluge."

lightRadio represents a new approach where the base station, typically located at the base of each cell site tower, is broken into its components elements and then distributed into both the antenna and throughout a cloud-like network.

lightRadio also shrinks today's clutter of antennas serving 2G, 3G, and LTE systems into a single powerful, Bell Labs-pioneered antenna that can be mounted on poles, sides of buildings or anywhere else there is power and a broadband connection.

The innovation coincides with growing demand for third-and-fourth generation mobile networks and devices, involving the mass adoption of wireless television services and other forms of broadband content. The total addressable market for the radio technology necessary to serve such networks and devices is expected to exceed €100bn1 over the next seven years.

Alcatel-Lucent announced the lightRadio™ technical specifications and launch timetable at an industry event in London today. Visit www.alcatel-lucent.com/lightradio for product press release and link to event replay (available at 2:30 GMT).

[1] This is the total addressable market for multi-technology radio solutions that consist of radio access base stations that simultaneously support 2G, 3G, and LTE, and multiple frequencies in the same platform

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