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U of M laser mimics helicopter heat signatures to thwart missiles

LPF Blog - Tech RSS — Tue, 07 Sep 2010 00:08:00 +0000

Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed a new laser-based countermeasure for aircraft, and unlike others we've seen (and we've seen a few) this technology aims to "blind" missiles rather than knock 'em out of the sky. The system uses a mid-infrared supercontinuum laser to mimic the heat signature of a helicopter, and it has no moving parts -- making it rugged enough to last a long time on rotor-based aircraft. The school has even spun off a company, Omni Sciences, to develop the thing, and has received some $1 million in grants from the Army and DARPA to build a second-generation prototype. Of course, questions remain: is it really a wargadget if you can't blow something up with it? And even if it is, where's the fun in that?

Entelligence: A tale of two TVs

LPF Blog - Tech RSS — Mon, 06 Sep 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Entelligence is a column by technology strategist and author Michael Gartenberg, a man whose desire for a delicious cup of coffee and a quality New York bagel is dwarfed only by his passion for tech. In these articles, he'll explore where our industry is and where it's going -- on both micro and macro levels -- with the unique wit and insight only he can provide.

This week at what's become Apple's fall music event the company unveiled a revised Apple TV. The small $99 device delivers a new rental model and support for Netflix, but there are no apps, contrary to much of the speculation leading up the event. That's in stark contrast to the Google TV project announced at I/O last spring. Unlike Apple, Google is looking to provide DVR functionality, search, and an app marketplace. Some say Apple isn't being bold enough, but I think Apple might be right.

Google wants input one on your TV. Apple wants input two. The difference? Input one is where your cable box goes. Input two was where your VCR or DVD player used to live. It's a port that's up for grabs.

There's nothing wrong with Google's approach, except it's hard. Really hard. It's like trying to take the Russian front hard. In winter. No one's succeeded in the past nor are they likely to in the future -- and certainly not with any weapon that requires an IR blaster. The cable companies have a very firm lock on the cable box. They don't want to open it. They don't want to share it. They want to keep it to themselves. The last thing they're going to do is allow themselves to be commoditized by Google or anyone else. While I think Google TV will have some appeal with enthusiasts, it's too ambitious too soon and it's going to need some iterations quickly.

With a solid position on input two Apple can safely do an end run around cable companies without having to make a direct assault.

That's why I think Apple's approach makes sense. It's not a guaranteed win but it has a good chance of success. The DVD player is looking long in the tooth. The problem is that the TV experience has entrenched behaviors that won't change soon, and Apple needs to educate the consumer. Apple released the iPhone with no app marketplace at first to teach new ways of using a phone, and it's doing the same with this Apple TV reset (it's not even called Apple TV 2). Apple needs to get into the market, secure additional devices and services and slowly evolve the behavior of the consumer in the living room. With good positioning in Apple retail stores, some marketing and growing content deals Apple can slowly educate, evangelize and evolve the usage of connected TV. With a base to show to developers Apple can then safely unveil an SDK and get the developer machine in gear. With a solid position on input two Apple can safely do an end run around cable companies without having to make a direct assault. And from that position it's a lot easier to make a run at input one.

Apple's shown the ability to do the two things that will make Apple TV a success over time: engineer content deals once thought impossible and evangelize developers. What we saw this week is likely just the next step in the larger iOS platform play -- although the TV is the next battleground for connected screens and applications, the platform is what matters in the long term, and Apple should treat the battle for the living room as a marathon, not a sprint.

Michael Gartenberg is a partner at Altimeter Group. His weblog can be found at gartenblog.net. Contact him at gartenberg AT gmail DOT com. Views expressed here are his own.

Mr. Extreme Closeup suggests next-gen iPad is testing FaceTime… right now

LPF Blog - Tech RSS — Sun, 05 Sep 2010 00:01:00 +0000

Honestly, from this distance it's hard to tell what's going on, but 9 to 5 Mac says we're looking at a next-gen camera-equipped iPad fielded specifically to test video calls. As you may recall, iPhone software surfaced with a very similar menu just weeks before the iPhone 4 came out, which either means someone was inspired to create a clever 'shop, or that we just got our first real glimpse at iProd 4,1. Oh, and Mr. Extreme Closeup? He's our friend Blurrycam's old college roommate, didn't you know?

Panasonic’s prototype Micro Four Thirds 3D lens and body arrive in Berlin

LPF Blog - Tech RSS — Sat, 04 Sep 2010 00:20:00 +0000

And here it is, Panasonic's prototype G-series micro-four-thirds shooter with new interchangeable 3D lens. We caught the pair hanging out at IFA with nary a soul around to take notice. Too bad for them, good for you if you've made the jump to a panny MFT as the lens will ultimately be compatible with your Lumix G micro system... probably -- unfortunately, Panasonic isn't saying which cams will be eligible for the software update. From the sound of it, the whole kit will get official in just a few week at Photokina with a new G-series body playing host to the new 3D lens. Here in Berlin, however, we've got a G2 body with an updated 3D image processing system doing the dirty work. Nevertheless, it was fully functional and produced a reasonable 3D image with plenty of pop that was ready to view on a brand new Panasonic 3D television. Come on, a 3D televsion is nothing without 3D content. Sneaky Panasonic, sneaky.

Panasonic's prototype Micro Four Thirds 3D lens and body arrive in Berlin

Toshiba goes all LED with new HDTVs at IFA 2010

LPF Blog - Tech RSS — Fri, 03 Sep 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Besides that Android tablet, Toshiba's brought a whole slew LED-lit LCD televisions to IFA 2010. The REGZA WL Series is the company's first range of 3DTVs, available in 40-, 46- and 55-inch sizes (pictured above) with LED backlighting, 7,000,000:1 contrast ratios, it 3D Resolution+ upscaling tech and one pair of active shutter glasses bundled with each one. They're also DLNA enabled and ready for Windows 7, with the Toshiba Media Controller software making streaming content as easy as dragging and dropping a file. The rest of the lineup includes the high end VL series with LED backlighting, midrange REGZA 42SL738 42-inch HDTV and edge-lit SL738 series LCDs in smaller sizes from 9- to 32-inches. Check the press site or YouTube trailers embedded after the break for more details, and don't be surprised to see the 200Hz motion technology, millimeter measurements, DVB-T tuners and BBC streaming while these are due in October across the pond, we'll be keeping an eye out at CEDIA for US-bound variants.

FCC tears apart the new iPod touch, while iFixit wistfully looks on

LPF Blog - Tech RSS — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 00:25:00 +0000

We're not quite sure when the Federal Communications Commission got into the habit of tearing devices limb from limb after testing their wireless radiation levels, but we have to say we're loving the trend -- and there's quite nothing like peering into the juicy innards of a new Apple device. Here, the FCC got its greasy paws on the new Retina Display-packing iPod touch, aka "Apple A1367," and in the gallery below you can see exactly where Cupertino keeps that A4 processor, 3.44 watt-hour battery, internal antenna, and 802.11 b/g/n 2.4GHz WiFi.

Apple iPod touch (2010) - FCC teardown

Samsung Galaxy Tab falls into FCC hands with GSM radio frequencies, 5GHz dual-band WiFi

LPF Blog - Tech RSS — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 00:27:00 +0000

When Samsung's 7-inch tablet finally sees the states, it might indeed be more than a giant Galaxy S -- for one thing, it may have Froyo, but for another, it could have faster, more building-penetrating WiFi than most comparable devices on the market. That's because when the Galaxy Tab hit the FCC by the name "SHW-M180S," it came loaded with dual-band 2.4GHz and 5.8GHz 802.11 a/b/g/n WiFi capable of speeds up to 150Mbps. It also intriguingly sports the GSM 1900 radio frequency, meaning an AT&T launch might be in the cards alongside the CDMA one rumored for Verizon. Browsing through the WiFi Alliance databases in an attempt to track the tablet down, we spotted both a "GT-P1000T" and a "GT-P1000L," each with dual-band WiFi, suggesting that there are multiple versions in the works... and the Global Certification Forum shows one of them actually has quad-band GSM and HSDPA connectivity. Not bad, Samsung. Now, let's hear about battery life.

Motorola says leaked Droid X Android 2.2 build won’t be updated to the official release

LPF Blog - Tech RSS — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 01:03:00 +0000

Can't say this is a surprise, but Motorola posted a note on its support forums today warning Droid X users against upgrading to that leaked Android 2.2 build or any of those custom ROMS that're out there -- they'll be cut off from the official upgrade when it hits in early September and potentially "stuck on the leaked version." Ouch. Of course, that's the risk you take when you start flashing your phone with unofficial firmware, but between this, eFUSE, and those cease and desist letters, it certainly feels like Motorola is decidedly unhappy that anyone would have the gall to hack or tweak one of its handsets, even if the phone in question is the size of a small tank and marketed by aggressive murderous robot hands insisting that it "does" everything one can think of with no restrictions. Contrast that with HTC, which is not only at peace with the hacking community, but even takes the initiative to resolve similar problems.

Of course, no one would care about any of this if Motorola would just release stock Android builds for its devices as soon as they're ready, but why learn that lesson when it's possible to waste money developing Blur and adopting painfully annoying staggered OTA rollout schedules at the behest of carriers? That would just be silly.

[Thanks, Matthew]

LG to unveil LEX8 3DTV at IFA featuring ‘Nano LED’ backlighting

LPF Blog - Tech RSS — Mon, 30 Aug 2010 00:07:00 +0000

Now that LED backlighting has trickled down to nearly every HDTV lineup, it appears the big manufacturers will have to find new ways to differentiate their products, like LG's upcoming LEX8 television. Set to debut at IFA in Berlin before going on sale in Germany and Korea next month (no word on the US), LG claims that thanks to a 'thin film of miniscule dots positioned in front of a full array of LEDs' its Nano Lighting technology makes for a clearer, smoother picture, with the slimmest and narrowest outline of any LED TV, ever, at just .88cm thick with a 1.25cm bezel. Of course LG's NetCast widgets and Magic Motion remote are along for the ride as well, while we'll have to wait until the show opens later this week to get our eyes on this beauty, check after the break for a few more pictures.

Show full PR text

LEX8 DELIVERS THE ULTIMATE IN PICTURE QUALITY USING NANO LIGHTING TECHNOLOGY
LG's First Ever TV with Nano Technology, LEX8 Delivers Stunning Picture Quality with Alluring INFINIA Design

SEOUL, Aug. 29, 2010 – At this year's IFA in Berlin, LG Electronics (LG) will unveil the LEX8, the next generation of flat panel televisions feature NANO Lighting Technology which will redefine the meaning of "clarity" in FULL LED TVs.

The LEX8 NANO FULL LED TV pushes the boundaries of viewing pleasure with its NANO Lighting Technology, which produces LG's brightest, clearest and smoothest picture yet. An extremely thin film printed with minuscule dots positioned in front of a full array of LEDs disperses light more evenly and effectively across the screen, creating pictures that are clearer, enticingly smoother and more refined. What's more, an Anti-Reflection Panel on the LEX8 screen minimizes reflection from an external light source – including sunlight -- ensuring the picture always stays crystal clear.

The LEX8 boasts improved localized dimming in both 2D and 3D with its Micro Pixel Control. By manipulating individual LED blocks, Micro Pixel Control adds even greater range and life to colors, from the deepest, darkest blacks to the most natural colors. The LEX8 is further enhanced by LG's TruMotion 400Hz, which delivers super-fast processing rate for moving images making them virtually blur-free. The overall effect is a picture so smooth, sharp and realistic, it's as if the action is playing out right in viewers' living rooms.

"In creating our first television using nano technology, LG is continuing to set new standards in TV technology and demonstrating once again that we're pushing the envelope of home entertainment," said Simon Kang, President and CEO of LG Home Entertainment Company. "Just as difficult as it is to watch standard TV after experiencing high definition, people will resist going back to regular LED LCD TVs after viewing the LEX8."

As LG's picture continues to evolve, so does its innovative INFINIA Design. Thanks to NANO Lighting Technology and FULL LED Panel, the LEX8 is still only 0.88cm thick with a bezel just 1.25cm wide, indisputably the slimmest and narrowest of any FULL LED TV in the world. With a bezel this narrow, the LEX8 leaves nothing in the way of viewing, while its elegant, understated INFINIA Design allows the LEX8 to complement any interior. Combining the ultimate picture quality with an alluring design, the LEX8 delivers perfect visual harmony.

And the LEX8 delivers LG's best 3D images yet. By ensuring a uniform distribution of light from the LED backlight panels, the LEX8 illuminates the screen more effectively, for 3D pictures of unprecedented clarity and brightness.

The LEX8 also comes with a raft of functions and features that provide unparalleled connectivity. NetCast™ opens the door to a world of online content, including web albums and video calling. In addition, the LEX8 can connect easily with any DLNA-capable storage device or computer, allowing users to delve seamlessly into their multimedia libraries. Making the LEX8 an even more user–friendly experience, the Magic Motion Remote Control lets viewers change TV settings and play games by pointing the remote at the screen and manipulating a cursor. With only power switch, volume control and single, all-purpose button, the Magic Motion Remote Control is the epitome of simplicity.

Using NANO Lighting Technology, LG has taken its industry-leading FULL LED picture and made it even more exhilarating. Whether in 2D or 3D, NANO FULL LED TV raises the bar for television viewing with pictures that are as engrossing as they are strikingly realistic. With the exceptional picture of LG's LEX8, viewers can now see FULL LED in a whole new light.

LEX8 Main Features:
ï NANO FULL LED TV
ï NANO Lighting Technology
ï Micro Pixel Control
ï Infinite Contrast Ratio
ï INFINIA Design: 0.88cm Depth, 1.25cm Bezel
ï TruMotion 400Hz
ï 3D TV (Dynamic 3D)
ï Picture Wizard II
ï NetCastTM (Broadband TV)
ï DLNA Ready
ï Magic Motion Remote Control
ï USB 2.0 (DivX HD, MP3, JPEG, etc.)
ï Invisible Speakers (7W+7W)
ï Infinite Sound
ï Clear Voice II

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The Persistence of FAKEAV

LPF Blog - Tech RSS — Sun, 29 Aug 2010 01:36:44 +0000

Despite the consistent media exposure that FAKEAV malware receives, it has always been business-as-usual for the FAKEAV proponents. To find out why the notorious malware persists, Trend Micro researchers looked into three important aspects.

These include: 1) social engineering techniques; 2) FAKEAV technology; and 3) the FAKEAV business itself.

Social Engineering

Social engineering is a technique prevalently used in furthering malicious activities both online and offline. Online, however, FAKEAV is a good example of a social engineering success story. By leveraging human weakness, FAKEAV effectively utilizes social engineering techniques such as “Black Hat” search engine optimization (SEO) to trick users.

The Technology Behind FAKEAV

Behind the professional looking GUIs, annoying pop-ups and other scareware tactics used by FAKEAV lies a simple technology. It can thus be said that FAKEAV technology is more tricky than complex. Despite the relative simplicity of FAKEAV technology, however, it plays a critical role in the success of FAKEAV’s social engineering tactics.

The FAKEAV Business

Of course, a malicious campaign is meaningless if it does not benefit its proponents. When it comes to the FAKEAV business, the stakes are high. Apart from taking away about US$ 40–100 from a user’s account as payment for rogue software, the more pressing concern with FAKEAV is information theft.

Learn more about the persistent FAKEAV and its three fundamental aspects with Security Spotlight article, “