Nokia's HumanForm concept oozes appeal

2011-11-16T13:09:00.000-08:00

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CNET News Crave Nokia's HumanForm concept oozes appeal by Christopher MacManus November 14, 2011 4:21 PM PST Follow @sonyinsider Everything you know about smartphone design will change one day.

(Credit:Nokia)

There seems to be a big brainstorm at the Nokia Research Center lately. It recently showed off the all-touch-screen Gem concept and a mind-bending flexible device interface.

One of its latest innovations is a radical new piece of concept hardware called HumanForm.

This fish-shaped concept is a departure from the rectangular devices we gawk over these days, and gives us an peek at a future where smartphone design has evolved beyond limitation. The soul of HumanForm contains part nanotechnology, a flexible display, and kinetic interaction.

Related storiesNokia Gem concept phone begs to be touchedFlex it, baby! Nokia's new interface is seriously twisted

Nokia bills the concept as "a visionary solution beyond touch screen and voice communication where technology becomes invisible and intuition takes over."

If HumanForm ever becomes real, users can bend the transparent display to navigate around the social-network-oriented interface. Aside from the entire phone being touch screen, it would also have support for gestures. Browsing images could occur simply by twisting the phone or bending it backward to zoom in.

HumanForm could also have an "electro tactile" enhanced display, which could, for example, give an image of rocks a bumpy feel. Be sure to check out some real-life images of a HumanForm mockup at Pocket-Lint.

Christopher MacManus Crave freelancer Christopher MacManus is now investing his energy writing for CNET after covering the Sony brand on various Web sites of his own for nearly a decade. In his free time, he enjoys cycling, FPS gaming, and his miniature Australian shepherd. Christopher is a member of the CNET Blog Network and is not an employee of CBS Interactive. E-mail Christopher.

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Less than half of app users have paid for an app

2011-11-16T08:29:00.000-08:00

Less than half of app users have paid for an app | Crave - CNET CNET Home Reviews Cell Phones Camcorders Digital Cameras Laptops TVs Car Tech Forums Appliances Cell Phone Accessories Components Desktops Games and Gear GPS Hard Drives & Burners Headphones Home Audio Home Video Internet Access Monitors MP3 Players Networking and Wi-Fi Peripherals Printers Software Tablets Web Hosting You are here: News Latest News Webware Crave Business Tech Green Tech Mobile Security Blogs Video Photos Media Cutting Edge Apple Politics & Law Gaming & Culture Microsoft Health Tech RSS Download Windows Software Mac Software Mobile Apps Web Apps CNET TV How To Phone Tablet Computer Web Home Theater Marketplace Log In | Join Log In Join CNET Sign in with My profile Log out

CNET News Crave Less than half of app users have paid for an app by Amanda Kooser November 14, 2011 4:33 PM PST Follow @akooser I paid $5.99 to stab this mythical creature on my iPad.

(Credit:Screenshot by Amanda Kooser/CNET)

App users are a tight-fisted bunch, according to a recently released Pew Internet & American Life study. Pew reports that only 46 percent of U.S. cell phone andtablet users who have downloaded apps have paid for one.

That means that 16 percent of adults in the United States have paid for an app. That's a boost from the 13 percent polled by Pew who reported parting with their cash in May 2010.

Pew queried 2,260 adults over the age of 18 between July and August of this year, including 916 interviews conducted over cell phones. The numbers might not look so rosy for app developers who would much rather have paying customers than freeloaders.

Those same app developers might want to look into tablet apps as potential cash cows. The study found that tablet users are more likely to a pay for apps--and pay higher prices.

There must be some lure to a big screen that makes all those pretty apps so hard to ignore. I remember back when Infinity Blade first followed my iPad home. I felt compelled to cough up the $5.99 adoption fee.

For people who do pay for apps, 52 percent report spending $5 or less on an app. On the higher end, 17 percent report paying more than $20 for a single app.

Do you shell out for apps? Vote in our poll and tell us in the comments how tight your purse strings are.

(Via CNET UK)

Amanda Kooser Freelance writer Amanda C. Kooser covers gadgets and tech news with a twist for CNET's Crave blog. When not wallowing in weird gadgets and iPad apps for cats, she can be found tinkering with her 1956 DeSoto. Amanda is a member of the CNET Blog Network and is not an employee of CBS Interactive.

Follow @akooser Topics: Smartphones, Tablets, iPad Tags: apps, tablet, Pew Internet & American Life @import "http://i.i.com.com/cnwk.1d/Ads/common/info_board/info_board.css"; Explore the BlackBerry Mall on CNET Learn about the new BlackBerry smartphones, read CNET editors' reviews, check out the latest BlackBerry videos and participate in the BlackBerry forum Visit the BlackBerry Mall on CNET

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Polaroid Z340 Instant Digital Camera: Say cheese!

2011-11-16T03:45:00.000-08:00

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CNET News Crave Polaroid Z340 Instant Digital Camera: Say cheese! by Amanda Kooser November 14, 2011 12:02 PM PST Follow @akooser Where are the bell bottoms?

(Credit:Polaroid)

Polaroid instant cameras conjure up images of bell bottoms and avocado-colored appliances from the boom days of the 1970s. You can get in on the retro wave with the new Polaroid Z340 Instant Digital Camera.

The Z340 pretty much takes the original Polaroid concept and updates it. It's a 14MP camera with a 2.7-inch LCD display and an integrated printer that spits out 3x4-inch color prints.

The printer part uses inkless printing technology from Zink Imaging. The special Zink paper has embedded dye crystals with a polymer overcoat for protection. Heat activates the crystals to form the image.

Polaroid has dipped its toes into the instant digital camera waters before. The C-211Z came out in 2000 with a $799 price tag, but sunk into tech oblivion. It didn't help that it cost $1 per print to use the contraption.

Prices have improved a little. A pack of 30 Zink sheets for the Z340 costs $19.99.

Lady GaGa unveiled a preview of Polaroid's efforts atCES early this year. She sported some Polaroid shades and showed off the GaGa-inspired GL30 Instant Digital Camera. The GL30 didn't appear as promised, but we now have the Z340 available instead.

The Z340 is a little on the chunky side, weighing almost 1.5 pounds. It costs $299.99 and gives you up to 25 prints on a battery charge.

Weight and pricing aside, this is really all about instant gratification and reveling in the retro without having to hunt down original Polaroid film or wear a beige polyester turtleneck.

Follow @akooser Topics: Cameras, Gadget news, Retro, Geek culture Tags: Polaroid, Z340 Instant Digital Camera, camera, Zink Imaging @import "http://i.i.com.com/cnwk.1d/Ads/common/info_board/info_board.css"; Explore the BlackBerry Mall on CNET Learn about the new BlackBerry smartphones, read CNET editors' reviews, check out the latest BlackBerry videos and participate in the BlackBerry forum Visit the BlackBerry Mall on CNET

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Six 5.1 speaker systems under $500 (roundup)

2011-11-16T00:11:00.000-08:00

Pioneer's SP-PK21BS delivers exceptional sound quality and only costs $400.

(Credit: Pioneer)

Sound bars and home-theater-in-a-box (HTIB) systems can sound "good enough," but if you want a home theater experience that's actually exciting, you need a bona fide 5.1 speaker system. And they're less expensive than you might think.

We've rounded up six 5.1 speaker systems that cost less than $500. You can find 5.1 packages for less than that, but around $500 is the sweet spot where sound quality starts to get pretty good. And we've also thrown in an ultrabudget option that comes in at just $84 and holds its own against the pricier competition.

One quick note before we get to the speakers. Unlike an all-in-one system like a sound bar or HTIB system, the speaker packages require a separate AV receiver. Check out CNET's list of best AV receivers for recommendations.

Best overall budget speaker system

Energy Take Classic 5.1

(Credit: Sarah Tew/CNET)

The Energy Take Classic 5.1 ($400 street price) is our Editors' Choice and the hands-down best overall speaker system we tested in this price range.

While most of the systems we've reviewed have trade-offs, the Energy is seemingly without compromises, with excellent sound quality, a compact and elegant design, and a $400 street price. It's one of the best home theater values we've ever seen and it's an investment likely to last you at least 10 years--much longer than the average gadget purchase.

•Read the full review: Energy Take Classic 5.1

Even with its budget price, the Energy Take Classic has significantly better sound quality than all of the other speakers in our roundup, except...

Best-sounding budget speaker system

Pioneer's SP-PK21BS

(Credit: Sarah Tew/CNET) Pioneer's SP-PK21BS ($400 street price) blew us away with the kind of sound it offers.

The catch here is that the speakers are huge, especially compared with most of the compact systems in our roundup. (And the center channel is enormous by any standard.) The speakers also sport a plain, black wood-grain finish, which isn't an eyesore, but it's not stylish, either.

•Read the full review: Pioneer SP-PK21BS

If you don't mind the bulk and have the space, the Pioneer SP-PK21BS offers the best sound quality for the money, but it's more speaker system than many buyers need.

Best ultrabudget speaker system

Monoprice's 8247

(Credit: Sarah Tew/CNET) The two things you need to know about Monoprice's 8247 speaker system are that it costs $84 and it sounds "good enough."

While we'd consider all of these speaker systems to be affordable, the Monoprice 8247 costs hundreds less and delivers a true surround-sound experience. The build quality is also surprisingly decent for the price and Monoprice even throws in four swivel wall-mounts.

•Read the full review: Monoprice 8247

Don't get us wrong: this isn't an audiophile system, so set your expectations accordingly. But it's a perfect starter system or option for a secondary room.

Best ultrasmall budget speaker system

Boston Acoustics SoundWare XS 5.1 system

(Credit: Sarah Tew/CNET) We think the Energy Take Classic 5.1 is plenty compact, but if you want to go even smaller, check out the Boston Acoustics SoundWare XS 5.1 system ($500 street price).

The speakers are each just a little larger than a baseball, but they sound surprisingly good for their size. (But don't expect miracles. The larger Energy and Pioneer systems sound much better.) Their unique cubelike shape also helps them fit into tight corners where standard speakers won't fit.

•Read the full review: Boston Acoustic SoundWare XS 5.1

Our major knock is that it's tough to fit speaker wire into the cramped connectors in the back, but you'll only put up with that during the initial setup process.

Alternatives

Harman's HKTS 20BQ isn't our top choice, but it sounds good and is plenty stylish.

(Credit: Sarah Tew/CNET) Filling out the roundup are the Harman Kardon HKTS 20BQ (often available under $500, but currently closer to $540) and the Klipsch HD Theater 500 ($500 street price).

Both of these systems are good, but it was hard for us to find a reason to recommend them over the other options. Specifically, both systems are similar in size, price, and design to the Energy Take Classic 5.1, and we prefer the Energy in both cases. However, if you find the Harman or Klipsch at a significant discount, they'll do the job.

Honorable mention: While the Mirage Nanosat 5.1 system wasn't included in this roundup, we've reviewed it in the past and were impressed. The list price is more than $800, but we've occasionally seen it discounted for less than $500 online.

Editors' note, November 14, 2011: This roundup has been updated to include the Monoprice 8247 speaker system.

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Leaked BlackBerry pic could point to first BBX OS phone

2011-11-15T21:10:00.000-08:00

Leaked BlackBerry pic could point to first BBX OS phone | Dialed In - CNET Blogs CNET Home Reviews Cell Phones Camcorders Digital Cameras Laptops TVs Car Tech Forums Appliances Cell Phone Accessories Components Desktops Games and Gear GPS Hard Drives & Burners Headphones Home Audio Home Video Internet Access Monitors MP3 Players Networking and Wi-Fi Peripherals Printers Software Tablets Web Hosting News Latest News Webware Crave Business Tech Green Tech Mobile Security Blogs Video Photos Media Cutting Edge Apple Politics & Law Gaming & Culture Microsoft Health Tech RSS Download Windows Software Mac Software Mobile Apps Web Apps CNET TV How To Phone Tablet Computer Web Home Theater Marketplace Log In | Join Log In Join CNET Sign in with My profile Log out

CNET Dialed In Leaked BlackBerry pic could point to first BBX OS phone by Jessica Dolcourt November 14, 2011 1:27 PM PST Follow @jdolcourt (Credit:The Verge)

We all know that RIM needs a new game plan to stay relevant in the super-smartphone age, and its name is BBX.

The forthcoming BBX operating system converges QNX, the OS behind the unsuccessful BlackBerry PlayBooktablet, and BlackBerry OS, which continues to run current BlackBerry smartphones.

Even when RIM announced its plan to develop BBX last month at the BlackBerry Developer Conference in San Francisco, it didn't tell us much else about it--what it'll really do, how it will look, and when it will launch. What we did know is that it'll succeed the BlackBerry PlayBook 2.0 software...and that RIM doesn't even own the rights to the name.

The design we see here in this leaked image, which could be of a BBX phone (or may not be), has a large, edgy design with an all-touch display and no keyboard. That tidbit is consistent with reports that BBX phones will eschew the physical keyboard for which RIM is so famous.

(Via The Verge)

Jessica Dolcourt Jessica Dolcourt pits phone against phone in the ongoing epic battle of the latest and greatest smartphones. Before that, she sat in judgment of smartphone and desktop apps. In her personal life, Jessica remains tireless in her quest for the world's most perfect cheese.

Follow @jdolcourt Topics: Smartphones, Cell phones, BlackBerry Tags: BBX, BlackBerry

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About Dialed In

Whether it's for just making calls or for cramming your entire life into one device, the ubiquitous cell phone continues to evolve. Each Wednesday cell phone editors Kent German, Bonnie Cha, Nicole Lee, and Jessica Dolcourt meet to discuss the latest cell phone news and answer your questions. Join us to find out what's in, what's out, and what's coming next.

Send us e-mail at dialedin@cnet.com or call us at 1-866-402-2638 (CNET) and be a part of the show.

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SNL shows best sexual couplings of gadgets

2011-11-15T16:49:00.000-08:00

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CNET News Technically Incorrect SNL shows best sexual couplings of gadgets by Chris Matyszczyk November 14, 2011 10:55 AM PST

It's Monday, all the more reason to offer you a little fantasy to help you through what might be a difficult week.

So please lean back a little and make sure there's no one close by whom you might accidentally nudge with a flinging arm or head. For I am going to show you gadgets having sex with each other.

You see, on Saturday, the kind and thoughtful folks at "Saturday Night Live" decided that given gadgets' new societal podium of sexual desirability, they should be shown having sex.

No, this is not pornography. There is foreplay.

Within these three minutes, you will see a Droid and a digital camera getting it on.

You will see aniPad removing lace panties after offering anXbox controller "a lifetime of love."

You will see presenters Emma Stone and Andy Samberg--yes, he who plays Mark Zuckerberg on a good day-- introducing all sorts of gadget relationships that you had never imagined, or at least never thought possible.

There's some interesting and moving dialogue too.

I can only hope that the knowledge of what a GPS and a curling iron are capable of doing together will send your mind into paroxysms of joy and flights of rare fantasy.

In technology, you see, anything is possible--if you just keep an open mind.

Chris Matyszczyk Chris Matyszczyk is an award-winning creative director who advises major corporations on content creation and marketing. He brings an irreverent, sarcastic, and sometimes ironic voice to the tech world. He is a member of the CNET Blog Network and is not an employee of CNET.

Topics: Music, Media, Social networking, Advertising Tags: sex, Saturday Night Live, gadgets

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About Technically Incorrect

Chris Matyszczyk brings a fresh and irreverent perspective to the tech world in his CNET blog, Technically Incorrect. He is a member of the CNET Blog Network and is not an employee of CNET.

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PETA goes after Mario and his Tanooki suit

2011-11-15T13:22:00.000-08:00

PETA goes after Mario and his Tanooki suit | Crave - CNET CNET Home Reviews Cell Phones Camcorders Digital Cameras Laptops TVs Car Tech Forums Appliances Cell Phone Accessories Components Desktops Games and Gear GPS Hard Drives & Burners Headphones Home Audio Home Video Internet Access Monitors MP3 Players Networking and Wi-Fi Peripherals Printers Software Tablets Web Hosting You are here: News Latest News Webware Crave Business Tech Green Tech Mobile Security Blogs Video Photos Media Cutting Edge Apple Politics & Law Gaming & Culture Microsoft Health Tech RSS Download Windows Software Mac Software Mobile Apps Web Apps CNET TV How To Phone Tablet Computer Web Home Theater Marketplace Log In | Join Log In Join CNET Sign in with My profile Log out

CNET News Crave PETA goes after Mario and his Tanooki suit by Jeff Bakalar November 14, 2011 12:34 PM PST Follow @jeffbakalar (Credit:PETA.org)

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals recently began calling the new Super Mario 3D Land for the Nintendo 3DS insensitive to the hunting and killing of real-life tanuki racoon dogs for fur. I guess PETA never had an issue with everyone's favorite plumber stomping on turtles and using their shells as weapons all these years.

From the "Mario Kills Tanooki" section of PETA's site: "Tanooki may be just a 'suit' in Mario games, but in real life, tanuki are raccoon dogs who are skinned alive for their fur. By wearing Tanooki, Mario is sending the message that it's OK to wear fur."

There's even an accompanying Flash game that encourages players to help a skinned and bloodied Tanooki reclaim his fur.

I'm all for animal rights and the ethical treatment of them and I don't think wearing real fur (tanuki or any other animal) is especially humane. But I do think it's safe to say no animals are or were harmed as a direct result of Super Mario 3D Land.

Instead, PETA is exploiting a game that's marketed to kids to propagate its agenda. Splattering animated blood on their site and flashing "Mario Kills Tanooki" is a bit harsh, even for a organization that has links to known arsonists and the ALF, a group declared by the Department of Homeland Security to be a "terrorist threat."

But don't worry kids, I actually recently had a chat with the big man himself, and he assured me that the Tanooki suit he wears in the game is made completely of faux fur.

(Credit:Bridget Carey/CNET)

(Via PETA via Kotaku)

Jeff Bakalar Before covering video games and gear for CNET Reviews, Jeff Bakalar worked in film and video production. He's a gamer, comic book nut, and a diehard New Jersey Devils fan. Off the ice you can catch him live every day as the co-host of CNET's infamous podcast, The 404, or every week on preGame.

Follow @jeffbakalar Topics: Games and gear, Entertainment Tags: Mario, suit, tanuki, Tanooki, PETA, Nintendo, Super Mario 3D Land @import "http://i.i.com.com/cnwk.1d/Ads/common/info_board/info_board.css"; Explore the BlackBerry Mall on CNET Learn about the new BlackBerry smartphones, read CNET editors' reviews, check out the latest BlackBerry videos and participate in the BlackBerry forum Visit the BlackBerry Mall on CNET

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Thumbs on with the Samsung Captivate Glide

2011-11-15T08:43:00.000-08:00

Thumbs on with the Samsung Captivate Glide | Android Atlas - CNET Reviews .mad_center {text-align:center;} .mad_center div, .mad_center table, .mad_center iframe, .mad_center a img {margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;} CNET Reviews Home You are here: Reviews Cell Phones Camcorders Digital Cameras Laptops TVs Car Tech Forums Appliances Cell Phone Accessories Components Desktops Games and Gear GPS Hard Drives & Burners Headphones Home Audio Home Video Internet Access Monitors MP3 Players Networking and Wi-Fi Peripherals Printers Software Tablets Web Hosting News Latest News Webware Crave Business Tech Green Tech Mobile Security Blogs Video Photos Media Cutting Edge Apple Politics & Law Gaming & Culture Microsoft Health Tech RSS Download Windows Software Mac Software Mobile Apps Web Apps CNET TV How To Phone Tablet Computer Web Home Theater Marketplace Log In | Join Log In Join CNET Sign in with My profile Log out .mad_center {text-align:center;} .mad_center div, .mad_center table, .mad_center iframe, .mad_center a img {margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;}

CNET Reviews Android Atlas Thumbs on with the Samsung Captivate Glide by Bonnie Cha November 14, 2011 11:11 AM PST Follow @bonnieCNET Samsung Captivate Glide

It's been a while since AT&T has had a higher-end, QWERTY smartphone in its lineup, but keyboard-loving customers should start warming up their thumbs for the upcoming Samsung Captivate Glide.

Announced at CTIA 2011, the Captivate Glide sports a slider design that combines a 4-inch Super AMOLED touch screen with a four-row QWERTY keyboard. TheAndroid Gingerbread device also rocks Nvidia's 1GHz dual-core processor, an 8-megapixel camera with 1080p HD video support, a front-facing 1.3-megapixel camera, and enterprise-friendly features.

Though the carrier has yet to announce a release date and pricing, we suspect that its launch is near. Meanwhile, Samsung dropped by CNET's offices a little while ago to give us a preview of the Captivate Glide, as well as the Samsung DoubleTime, so be sure to check out our First Look video and hands-on photo gallery for a closer look.

Samsung Captivate Glide hands-on (photos) 1-2 of 10Scroll LeftScroll Right

Bonnie Cha Bonnie Cha is a senior editor for CNET, covering smartphones. When she's not testing the latest gadgets, you can find her chasing after her crazy lab or surfing in the chilly waters of Northern California.

Follow @bonnieCNET Topics: Phones Tags: Samsung Captivate Glide, smartphones, AT&T, cell phones, Gingerbread

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About Android Atlas

News, analysis and tips on the Google Android operating system and devices. Got a tip? Want to contact us? E-mail androidatlas@cnet.com. Follow us on Twitter.

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When Siri met the Terminator

2011-11-15T04:28:00.000-08:00

When Siri met the Terminator | Crave - CNET CNET Home Reviews Cell Phones Camcorders Digital Cameras Laptops TVs Car Tech Forums Appliances Cell Phone Accessories Components Desktops Games and Gear GPS Hard Drives & Burners Headphones Home Audio Home Video Internet Access Monitors MP3 Players Networking and Wi-Fi Peripherals Printers Software Tablets Web Hosting You are here: News Latest News Webware Crave Business Tech Green Tech Mobile Security Blogs Video Photos Media Cutting Edge Apple Politics & Law Gaming & Culture Microsoft Health Tech RSS Download Windows Software Mac Software Mobile Apps Web Apps CNET TV How To Phone Tablet Computer Web Home Theater Marketplace Log In | Join Log In Join CNET Sign in with My profile Log out

CNET News Crave When Siri met the Terminator by Bonnie Cha November 14, 2011 2:22 PM PST Follow @bonnieCNET Who would you choose as your personal assistant? Siri or the Terminator?

(Credit:Screenshot by Bonnie Cha/CNET)

Look out Siri, there's a new virtual assistant in town--and you definitely don't want to get on his bad side.

YouTube user programmer4fun has created his own virtual personal assistant using a 3D model of the Terminator T-800 cyborg and his Microsoft Kinect.

In his video description, programmer4fun explains that he used the Kinect SDK to make use of the head tracking and speech recognition software. The Kinect sits behind him, though he notes it can be anywhere, while a small LED projector beams the Terminator's head onto the wall. He's even built in code to support anaglyph 3D if you really want to get up close and personal with the Terminator.

Programmer4fun goes on to note that the speech recognition software is able to understand his questions, despite his Belgian accent. Sadly, the Terminator doesn't answer your questions in Arnold Schwarzenegger's voice, but it's still got plenty of attitude.

As you'll see in the video, he's not too keen on giving you weather reports, and don't even think about asking him for a favor when he's got a date with Siri. If you're curious about how many days have passed since Judgment Day though, the Terminator is your man.

(Via Technabob)

Follow @bonnieCNET Topics: Phones, Games and gear, Smartphones, iPhone Tags: Terminator, voice recognition, Microsoft Kinect, smartphones, Siri, iPhone 4S

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Sound ID Six headset works with EarPrint app for better sound

2011-11-15T01:22:00.000-08:00

Sound ID Six headset works with EarPrint app for better sound | Dialed In - CNET Blogs CNET Home Reviews Cell Phones Camcorders Digital Cameras Laptops TVs Car Tech Forums Appliances Cell Phone Accessories Components Desktops Games and Gear GPS Hard Drives & Burners Headphones Home Audio Home Video Internet Access Monitors MP3 Players Networking and Wi-Fi Peripherals Printers Software Tablets Web Hosting News Latest News Webware Crave Business Tech Green Tech Mobile Security Blogs Video Photos Media Cutting Edge Apple Politics & Law Gaming & Culture Microsoft Health Tech RSS Download Windows Software Mac Software Mobile Apps Web Apps CNET TV How To Phone Tablet Computer Web Home Theater Marketplace Log In | Join Log In Join CNET Sign in with My profile Log out

CNET Dialed In Sound ID Six headset works with EarPrint app for better sound by Nicole Lee November 14, 2011 3:07 PM PST Follow @nicoleleeCNET Sound ID Six

(Credit:Sound ID)

Sound ID's latest Bluetooth headset is called the Six, and it promises to be the company's most advanced headset yet.

Sound ID stands out in the field of Bluetooth headset makers because the company was founded by an ear doctor from Stanford University, and the headsets are therefore designed with strong knowledge of the human ear. Sound ID headsets have usually prized comfort and audio clarity because of this.

The Six headset is also highly stylized with a new contemporary design. Notable features include background noise management, improved voice recognition due to a VoiceMenu system, an ActiveConnect feature that can connect to two A2DP devices simultaneously, and a Smart Touch Surface that lets you access a variety of controls (volume, voice mail, voice dial, and so on) simply by tapping the headset. You also get a Pass Thru Mode that amplifies surrounding noise when you're not in a call, so that you can listen to your environment with your headset still in your ear.

The headset also works in concert with a new EarPrint 3.0 smarphone app for iPhones, BlackBerrys, andAndroid handsets. The app lets you access the voice command menu, a text-to-speech feature for Android devices, a Find Me option to locate a missing headset, a Personal Sound setting to customize listening preferences, and other options.

The Sound ID Six Bluetooth headset retails for $129.99.

Nicole Lee Nicole Lee is a senior associate editor for CNET, covering cell phones, Bluetooth headsets, and all things mobile. She's also a fan of comic books, video games, and of course, shiny gadgets.

Follow @nicoleleeCNET Topics: Accessories Tags: Bluetooth Headset, Sound ID Six

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The 404 946: Where our hand is on Fire (podcast)

2011-11-14T20:47:00.000-08:00

The 404 946: Where our hand is on Fire (podcast) | The 404 Podcast - CNET Blogs CNET Home Reviews Cell Phones Camcorders Digital Cameras Laptops TVs Car Tech Forums Appliances Cell Phone Accessories Components Desktops Games and Gear GPS Hard Drives & Burners Headphones Home Audio Home Video Internet Access Monitors MP3 Players Networking and Wi-Fi Peripherals Printers Software Tablets Web Hosting News Latest News Webware Crave Business Tech Green Tech Mobile Security Blogs Video Photos Media Cutting Edge Apple Politics & Law Gaming & Culture Microsoft Health Tech RSS Download Windows Software Mac Software Mobile Apps Web Apps CNET TV How To Phone Tablet Computer Web Home Theater Marketplace Log In | Join Log In Join CNET Sign in with My profile Log out

CNET The 404 Podcast The 404 946: Where our hand is on Fire (podcast) by Justin Yu November 14, 2011 12:28 PM PST Follow @malusbrutus

We're going hands-on with the Amazon Kindle Fire tablet, released ahead of schedule to a few lucky customers today.

(Credit:Smileecards)

Also leaked from today's 404 podcast: Apple replacing original iPod Nanos, breaking up on Facebook, waging war on infographics, and tap-to-pay apps coming to Ultrabook laptops.

Also, a big congrats to CNET's Bonnie Cha, the new chief correspondent at Crave!

Stream the podcast on audio or video after the page break!

The 404 Digest for Episode 946

Ep. 946: Where our hand is on FireApple now replacing originaliPod Nanos due to overheating batteries.Artist prints out every photo uploaded to Flickr in a 24-hour period.Kindle Fires ship early with positive feedback.Meet Crave's new chief correspondent, Bonnie Cha.Schools grab .xxx sites to protect names from porn.1/3 of people have broken up over Facebook.Bathroom break video 1: Skyrim Trailer, retro editionBathroom break video 2: The future is Catvertising.

Episode 946Listen Now:Download Today's Podcast

Subscribe in iTunes (audio) | Subscribe in iTunes (video) | Subscribe in RSS Audio | Subscribe in RSS Video

Follow us on Twitter!The 404Jeff BakalarJustin YuWilson Tang
Add us on Facebook!The 404 Fan PageThe 404 GroupJustin YuJeff BakalarWilson Tang
Justin Yu Justin Yu covers headphones and peripherals for CNET. When he's not scouring eBay for useless ephemera or eating hot dogs for breakfast, he spends his time making fun of Internet culture every morning on The 404 podcast.

Follow @malusbrutus Topics: Show notes, The 404 podcast Tags: Justin Yu, Flickr, Kindle, Fire, breaking up, iPod, Skyrim, Facebook, Jeff Bakalar, porn, Apple, The 404 Podcast, tablet, Nano, XXX, Wilson G. Tang, domain, Amazon, review, Ultrabook, Square

Popular headlines The 404 945: Where wow, you guys are a lot taller than I thought you were (podcast) The 404 944: Where Skyrim? We hardly know him! (podcast) The 404 943: Where can you turn off the Flash real quick? (podcast) The 404 942: Where we're ready to believe you (podcast) The 404 941: Where we did it all for the Nook (podcast) Latest Tech News iTunes Match: A solution for a problem Apple helped create Senators want probe of NetApp, Blue Coat's ties to Syria T-Mobile may be part of Google Music launch Did Google throw kink into RIM's device management plan? Another iOS/Android stat: Two iPhones outsell all Android phones F-Secure finds rare digitally signed malware At Techonomy, innovation is the hot topic Supercomputers connected at 100 gigabits per second CNET Blogs Buzz Out Loud: Kindle Fire: your questions answered (Podcast) Buzz Out Loud Podcast

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About The 404 Podcast

A pop-cult fix for a generation that grew up playing Nintendo and watching Saturday morning cartoons, the 404 podcast, with hosts Jeff Bakalar, Wilson Tang, and Justin Yu, gives you the latest news in gadgets, social media, video games, and movies with snarky commentary and the occasional tasteless joke.

Get in on the show by e-mailing us at the404@cnet.com, or leave us a message at 1-866-404-CNET (2638). Or join up with our Facebook group and get in on the action.

RSSSubscribe my YahooAdd this Feed GoogleAdd this Feed MSNAdd this Feed Topics Announcements Gadgets News Show notes Technology The 404 podcast CNET on the Go Android Market iPhone App Store

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'Camera Size'-up your digital SLR

2011-11-14T16:22:00.001-08:00

'Camera Size'-up your digital SLR | Crave - CNET CNET Home Reviews Cell Phones Camcorders Digital Cameras Laptops TVs Car Tech Forums Appliances Cell Phone Accessories Components Desktops Games and Gear GPS Hard Drives & Burners Headphones Home Audio Home Video Internet Access Monitors MP3 Players Networking and Wi-Fi Peripherals Printers Software Tablets Web Hosting You are here: News Latest News Webware Crave Business Tech Green Tech Mobile Security Blogs Video Photos Media Cutting Edge Apple Politics & Law Gaming & Culture Microsoft Health Tech RSS Download Windows Software Mac Software Mobile Apps Web Apps CNET TV How To Phone Tablet Computer Web Home Theater Marketplace Log In | Join Log In Join CNET Sign in with My profile Log out

CNET News Crave 'Camera Size'-up your digital SLR by Shawn Low November 14, 2011 1:18 PM PST (Credit:Screenshot by PetaPixel)

Shopping for a new shooter? Newly launched Web site Camera Size lets shutterbugs compare two camera models head to head.

After a user makes a selection from dual dropdown menus, the site displays a visual comparison of the cameras, together with information such as width and height, as well as how much larger/smaller one model is.

The portal also lets you configure the way comparisons are displayed. Users can switch sides, stack a camera in front of the other, and alternate between orientations. An graphic showing a AA battery can also be dragged around the page as a size reference.

We think this site will come in useful when comparing the physical dimensions of competing models. It'll definitely save a lot of time, considering the hassle of gathering images and camera specs from different sites just to draw a decent comparison. Do note that the site's camera list is limited to recent models.

On a related note, there's a similar Web site called Phone Size for mobile phones. Unlike Camera Size, Phone Size allows users to compare 15 models at a time, and each phone will have its specifications--such as measurements, screen size and resolution--displayed, too.

(Source: Crave Asia via PetaPixel)

Topics: Cameras Tags: Camera Size @import "http://i.i.com.com/cnwk.1d/Ads/common/info_board/info_board.css"; Explore the BlackBerry Mall on CNET Learn about the new BlackBerry smartphones, read CNET editors' reviews, check out the latest BlackBerry videos and participate in the BlackBerry forum Visit the BlackBerry Mall on CNET

Popular headlines Sound ID Six headset works with EarPrint app for better sound When Siri met the Terminator Leaked BlackBerry pic could point to first BBX OS phone Six 5.1 speaker systems under $500 (roundup) PETA goes after Mario and his Tanooki suit Latest Tech News iTunes Match: A solution for a problem Apple helped create Senators want probe of NetApp, Blue Coat's ties to Syria T-Mobile may be part of Google Music launch Did Google throw kink into RIM's device management plan? Another iOS/Android stat: Two iPhones outsell all Android phones F-Secure finds rare digitally signed malware At Techonomy, innovation is the hot topic Supercomputers connected at 100 gigabits per second Inside CNET News

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About Crave

The name says it all. Crave is our blog about gorgeous gadgets and other crushworthy stuff. If you would like to contact Crave with a tip or comment, please write to: crave@cnet.com

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Acer offers up new all-in-one desktops for the holidays

2011-11-02T14:04:00.000-07:00

Acer offers up new all-in-one desktops for the holidays | Crave - CNET CNET Home Reviews Cell Phones Camcorders Digital Cameras Laptops TVs Car Tech Forums Appliances Cell Phone Accessories Components Desktops Games and Gear GPS Hard Drives & Burners Headphones Home Audio Home Video Internet Access Monitors MP3 Players Networking and Wi-Fi Peripherals Printers Software Tablets Web Hosting You are here: News Latest News Webware Crave Business Tech Green Tech Mobile Security Blogs Video Photos Media Cutting Edge Apple Politics & Law Gaming & Culture Microsoft Health Tech RSS Download Windows Software Mac Software Mobile Apps Web Apps CNET TV How To Phone Tablet Computer Web Home Theater Log In | Join Log In Join CNET Sign in with My profile Log out

CNET News Crave Acer offers up new all-in-one desktops for the holidays by Rich Brown October 31, 2011 9:01 PM PDT Follow @richbcnet Acer's new 23-inch AZ5 Series all-in-one

(Credit:Acer)

Acer announced a variety of new desktops today for consumers and business buyers. Among the highlights are two new all-in-ones, each for under $1,000.

The Acer-branded AZ5 is Acer's new flagship all-in-one. Starting at $750, the 23-inch AZ5 will feature second-generation Intel Core i3- and Core i5-series CPUs, along with a touch screen and Acer's Clear.fi media-streaming software.

Although this is a touch-screen-based desktop, the AZ5, in keeping with Acer's older all-in-ones, doesn't seem to offer an equivalent to HP's well-conceived touch software suite. At least the overall design of the AZ5 has a certain future-pop appeal. Acer will also offer a smaller 21.5-inch AZ3 model, starting at $650.

Acer offers up new all-in-ones for holiday shoppers 1-2 of 5Scroll LeftScroll Right

Joining the AZ5 in Acer's ever-confusing brand portfolio is the similarly 23-inch Gateway ZX6971. This system will also feature a touch screen and second-gen Core i3 chips, and starts at a remarkably similar $730.

We understand that the Gateway brand still has a certain cachet here in the States, and that's why Acer has kept it alive since it acquired Gateway in 2007. What we don't understand is why Acer still insists on forcing its Acer-branded desktops into that same mold. Is it too much to ask for meaningful differentiation?

Alongside these two consumer all-in-ones, Acer also has a few new models in its Veriton line of corporate desktops, as well an updated Gateway SX-series small tower PC, and a new Aspire AM3 midtower PC.

Rich Brown Rich Brown wrote his first review, of the CD-ROM game Voyeur, for "PC Magazine" in 1993. He parlayed that acclaim into his current role as a senior editor in charge of CNET's desktop, printer, and peripheral device reviews. He also writes about the occasional present-day game for CNET, despite their confounding lack of FMV.

Follow @richbcnet Topics: Desktops Tags: Gateway, Acer

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Smartphones with long battery life (roundup)

2011-11-02T09:05:00.000-07:00

Smartphones with long battery life (roundup) | Dialed In - CNET Blogs CNET Home Reviews Cell Phones Camcorders Digital Cameras Laptops TVs Car Tech Forums Appliances Cell Phone Accessories Components Desktops Games and Gear GPS Hard Drives & Burners Headphones Home Audio Home Video Internet Access Monitors MP3 Players Networking and Wi-Fi Peripherals Printers Software Tablets Web Hosting News Latest News Webware Crave Business Tech Green Tech Mobile Security Blogs Video Photos Media Cutting Edge Apple Politics & Law Gaming & Culture Microsoft Health Tech RSS Download Windows Software Mac Software Mobile Apps Web Apps CNET TV How To Phone Tablet Computer Web Home Theater Log In | Join Log In Join CNET Sign in with My profile Log out

CNET Dialed In Smartphones with long battery life (roundup) by Bonnie Cha October 31, 2011 1:24 PM PDT Follow @bonnieCNET

Smartphones are the Swiss Army Knives of the tech world. They're cell phones, music and video players, mobile Web browsers, and personal organizers, among other things. Not surprisingly, all this can take a toll on battery life, and when you depend on your smartphone for so much, the last thing you want is for it to run out of juice when you need it most.

Generally speaking, with moderate use, smartphones can give you a full day's performance before needing to be recharged, but not all gadgets are created equal--some simply run out of steam early, whereas others will hang in there for the long haul. Here are five smartphones that fall into the latter group; they scored some impressive numbers in our CNET Labs battery tests and also performed better than their competitors in real-world tests. So all you movers and shakers out there who don't have time to charge your smartphone's battery every few hours, give one of these devices a try.

Samsung Galaxy S II
When it came to testing the Galaxy S II, let's just say a certain editor was stuck at the office late waiting for the smartphone's battery to die. Read the full review.

Motorola Droid Bionic
The Motorola Droid Bionic has a ton of features and power packed into it, so we were afraid that battery life would suffer, but the smartphone proved us wrong. Read the full review.

HTC Rhyme
Perhaps purple isn't your favorite color, but if you like compact smartphones with good battery life and extra accessories, then the HTC Rhyme is worth a look. Read the full review.

Motorola Photon 4G
The Photon 4G makes a great travel buddy not only because of its world-roaming capabilities, but also because of its long-lasting battery. Read the full review.

LG Enlighten
One of the biggest adjustments when jumping from a feature phone to a smartphone is the difference in battery life, but the entry-level LG Enlighten does a pretty good job of softening that blow. Read the full review.

Curious to see how your smartphone stacks up? Check out CNET's cell phone battery life charts.

Follow @bonnieCNET Topics: Smartphones, Cell phones Tags: Smartphones, Battery Life, CNET Labs, Long Battery Life, Cell Phones

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QR code Star Trek costume for Halloween slacker

2011-11-02T04:55:00.000-07:00

QR code Star Trek costume for Halloween slacker | Crave - CNET CNET Home Reviews Cell Phones Camcorders Digital Cameras Laptops TVs Car Tech Forums Appliances Cell Phone Accessories Components Desktops Games and Gear GPS Hard Drives & Burners Headphones Home Audio Home Video Internet Access Monitors MP3 Players Networking and Wi-Fi Peripherals Printers Software Tablets Web Hosting You are here: News Latest News Webware Crave Business Tech Green Tech Mobile Security Blogs Video Photos Media Cutting Edge Apple Politics & Law Gaming & Culture Microsoft Health Tech RSS Download Windows Software Mac Software Mobile Apps Web Apps CNET TV How To Phone Tablet Computer Web Home Theater Log In | Join Log In Join CNET Sign in with My profile Log out

CNET News Crave QR code Star Trek costume for Halloween slacker by Amanda Kooser October 31, 2011 1:01 PM PDT Follow @akooser Redditor adriannezy displays enthusiasm for her Halloween costume.

(Credit:adriannezy, via Reddit)

I dressed up as a train engineer for a Halloween party, and it took half an hour to get the straps on my overalls adjusted right. Life would have been a lot easier if I had just gone with a QR code like Reddit user adriannezy.

And here's the big reveal, Scotty.

(Credit:adriannezy, via Reddit)

She works in an IT department and wanted to participate in Halloween at an absolute minimum level. So she went with a QR code on her shirt.

The QR code links to a photo of her in a Star Trek costume that looks like a cross between Uhura and Spock. This represents geek chic on multiple levels.

I'm not sure why adriannezy didn't want to wear that outfit at work. A tricorder should be very helpful for diagnosing computer problems on the job.

I also have one of those Star Trek uniform dresses and I'm guessing the real issue is the itsy-bitsy mini-skirt.

The costume idea has racked up a lot of comments on Reddit. Adriannezy chimed in on the experience. "I've had groups of guys holding phones up to my chest all day. It's been awkward," she wrote.

This isn't surprising. We've seen the boob-scanning phenomenon with QR codes before.

Next Halloween, I may QR code link back to a picture of one of my costume glories of the past--like Dolly Parton or young Elvis--and save the hassle of a new costume.

Follow @akooser Topics: Fashion, Geek culture Tags: costume, Reddit, QR code, Halloween @import "http://i.i.com.com/cnwk.1d/Ads/common/info_board/info_board.css"; Explore the BlackBerry Mall on CNET Learn about the new BlackBerry smartphones, read CNET editors' reviews, check out the latest BlackBerry videos and participate in the BlackBerry forum Visit the BlackBerry Mall on CNET

Popular headlines Skinny iPad 2 case puts keyboard on a diet HTC Evo Design 4G review: All-around excellent value iRoc plans to turn your iPad into a car stereo RIM BlackBerry Curve 9360 review: BlackBerry for beginners Space beer a step closer to coming right up Samsung Focus S, Focus Flash hitting AT&T Nov. 6 Latest Tech News Symantec uncovers cyber espionage of chemical, defense firms CTO for HP's PC unit announces retirement China launches unmanned capsule for key docking test South Korea fines six LCD makers for price fixing Copyright bill controversy grows as rhetoric sharpens Urban Airship to acquire SimpleGeo P2P marketplaces: Reach out and hire someone Space beer a step closer to coming right up Inside CNET News

1-2 of 12

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Add a keyboard case to your iPad 2 without completely losing its girlish figure. The Skinny weighs 10.4 ounces and offers a slim alternative to chunkier cases.

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Land Rover seen testing diesel hybrid plug-in

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Ford tech keeps drowsy drivers in check

2011-11-02T00:51:00.000-07:00

Ford tech keeps drowsy drivers in check | The Car Tech blog - CNET Reviews CNET Reviews Home You are here: Reviews Cell Phones Camcorders Digital Cameras Laptops TVs Car Tech Forums Appliances Cell Phone Accessories Components Desktops Games and Gear GPS Hard Drives & Burners Headphones Home Audio Home Video Internet Access Monitors MP3 Players Networking and Wi-Fi Peripherals Printers Software Tablets Web Hosting News Latest News Webware Crave Business Tech Green Tech Mobile Security Blogs Video Photos Media Cutting Edge Apple Politics & Law Gaming & Culture Microsoft Health Tech RSS Download Windows Software Mac Software Mobile Apps Web Apps CNET TV How To Phone Tablet Computer Web Home Theater Log In | Join Log In Join CNET Sign in with My profile Log out

CNET Reviews The Car Tech blog Ford tech keeps drowsy drivers in check by Liane Yvkoff October 31, 2011 1:25 PM PDT Follow @faildater

Ford is the latest manufacturer to tackle the problem of drowsy driving by adding Lane Keeping Technology to the Ford Explorer in early 2012.

Drowsy driving causes more than 100,000 crashes a year, resulting in 40,000 injuries and 1,550 deaths, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. To keep drivers awake behind the wheel, Ford is using a set of three safety features in its Lane Keeping Technology: the driver alert, lane keeping alert, and the lane keeping aid.

The Driver Alert technology monitors the vehicle's driving pattern, and if it detects a pattern consistent with drowsy driving, it issues a chimed warning along with a message recommending a break. If the driver does not respond to the warning, it issues more urgent audio warnings. Taking periodic breaks is recommended to break up the monotony of long drives and keep drivers attentive.

And if that doesn't work, the Lane Keeping Alert recognizes when a vehicle unintentionally drifts too close to another lane and warns the driver. It uses small forward-facing cameras mounted on the windshield behind the rearview mirror to identify lane markings on both sides of the vehicle and predict where the vehicle should be.

If the system detects the vehicle drifting too close to the lane markings, it vibrates the steering wheel to grab the driver's attention. However, the system is only as good as the lane markings it monitors. Grayed-out lines on the instrument cluster indicate when the Lane Keeping Alert isn't working, such as when the vehicle is traveling below the 40-mph activation speed, the road is poorly marked, or adverse environmental conditions do not allow the camera to determine road markings.

The Lane Keeping Aid issues a warning when it detects the driver's hands are not on the wheel.

(Credit:Ford)

Should the driver drift too close to the lane markings, the Lane Keeping Aid provides steering torque to nudge the vehicle back into its proper lane position. The technology calculates how much steering is required based on information gathered from cameras and sensors, such as the vehicle's position relative to lane marking, yaw angle, and curve radius. However, this semi-autonomous driving technology could be abused by drivers who may prefer to let the vehicle do the steering for them. If the system detects that the driver's hands are not on the wheel, it will issue warnings to discourage the practice.

But just because the technology is available doesn't mean you have the use it. The default setting for this optional technology is set to off, and the driver must enable it each time he wants to use it. In addition to setting the system sensitivity, the driver can choose to use the lane keeping alert, lane keeping aid, or both.

Ford isn't alone in implementing antidrowsy driving technology. Its Lane Keeping Technology system is similar to the lane-departure technology used in Mercedes, Lexus, Toyota, and Volvo vehicles.

Liane Yvkoff Liane Yvkoff is a freelance writer who blogs about cars for CNET Car Tech. She is a member of the CNET Blog Network and is not an employee of CNET. E-mail Liane.

Follow @faildater Topics: News, Safety, Web video Tags: Ford, drowsy driving

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A third serving of Uncharted territory

2011-11-01T20:26:00.000-07:00

The Uncharted series, which has quickly become the staple franchise of the PlayStation 3, has won over hard-core and casual gamers alike with its lighthearted action gameplay, witty characters, and amazing sense of adventure.

The third title in the series promises to raise the ante even higher, so it's back to the jungle we go with our look at Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception.

Jeff:
Nathan Drake has got to have the best and worst luck in the history of video game characters. But that's why Uncharted games are such a thrill to play. Each sequential title in the franchise puts Drake in a bigger mess than before, tasking players to find new ways to save his life over and over again.

Maybe more so than any other game out there, Uncharted 3 plays much more like a Hollywood blockbuster than it does a conventional video game. It's the first title you'd want to show off to non-gamers, with the hope they would then realize all the fun they're missing out on.

Veterans and newcomers to the Uncharted series will get sucked right in, as the early hours of gameplay are much more varied than what's been presented in the past. Naughty Dog has also again raised the bar on dictating compelling narrative, as Uncharted 3 makes the characters even more relatable and likable than ever before. Plus, I'm not sure there's a better musical score in all of games.

Drake has a huge new arsenal of immediately noticeable animations. Some of them tend to trigger inappropriately, but nevertheless, all make for the most human-feeling Nathan Drake ever. Cut scenes flow seamlessly into the action, which at times makes it difficult to discern whether or not it's time to start playing again--that's how good everything looks.

(Credit: Naughty Dog)

Uncharted 3 has a healthy amount of puzzle-solving this time around, which does a great job of breaking up the action. There was never a point in the campaign where I rolled my eyes and thought "here we go again."

The third game also seems to push melee combat more so than the first two titles, which definitely works, but is still light years behind the excellent system in place in Batman: Arkham City. I found myself attempting melee more often than I probably should have, though there's really nothing better than pulling off a stealth kill while hanging from a ledge and watching your victim fall into the cavernous void below.

The Naughty Dog team made a statement in Uncharted 2 with the introduction of multiplayer modes, and Uncharted 3 carries the torch to a surprising level of depth. The co-op and multiplayer online modes really extend the shelf-life of the game giving the title a much larger overall sense of a complete package. I'd recommend making your way through the campaign first, then diving into online matches.

(Credit: Naughty Dog)

Playing the first two Uncharted titles has trained me to look out for certain shiny ledges and always be aware of my surroundings. But perhaps it's also desensitized me to the point that I already expect to be wowed by striking visual effects, crisp gameplay, and cut scenes and voice acting on the highest level of production values. Of course all this exists in Uncharted 3, but I begin to wonder if the team at Naughty Dog ever struggles with a similar conundrum. It reminds me of my honeymoon in Hawaii. After seeing half a dozen rainbows spawning from the tops of natural waterfalls, what else left is there?

Dan:
Remember the television commercials for Uncharted 2, with faux Sony VP Kevin Butler describing that game as being indistinguishable from a big budget action movie to casual observers? At the time, I thought the commercials were clever, but a bit of an optimistic portrayal of what was still a very good game. It turns out those commercials were dead on, but just a couple of years early.

It's the new Uncharted 3 that's so filled with heart-pounding stunts and quick-cut shocks that it feels like a video game gene-spliced with equal parts Michael Bay and Stephen Spielberg (take that how you will). In fact, to paraphrase one comment I saw on Facebook from someone else who had played a pre-release copy of the game, someone should have hired the Uncharted team to make, or at least write, the fourth Indiana Jones film.

(Credit: Naughty Dog)

The cinematic qualities extend to the pre-rendered cut scenes, which are long enough that they could have easily devolved into Metal Gear Solid self-parody territory, but instead, better-than-expected writing and voice acting (and motion capture/animation) make this the kind of franchise that could actually pull off a full-length animated feature, unlike, say, Final Fantasy or Resident Evil, both of which tried that format unsuccessfully.

After thinking that the current generation of living room consoles were well past the point of showing their age, we've seen something of a renaissance recently, with frankly stunning-looking games, including the otherworldly but otherwise-vapid Rage, the gritty realism of Battlefield 3, and now, the sun-drenched postcard locales of Uncharted 3. It's one of those rare games that's fun to even just sit back and watch (again calling back to the Uncharted 2 "Is it a movie?" commercials).

(Credit: Naughty Dog)

Stereoscopic 3D is supported, as it is on most high-profile PlayStation 3 exclusives. The implementation is decent but not perfect. The default view has the adjustable 3D depth slider set to full, I had to dial it back to about halfway to get a comfortable view. The effect of depth perception added to the exploring, climbing, jumping scenes, but the loss of resolution inherent in 3D gaming led to an unfortunate side effect. Those sun-drenched scenes, with lush dynamic lighting that looked so good in 2D, got very jagged and rough-looking in 3D. But overall, the game had much less of what I've called the "dirty fish tank effect" that games such as Killzone 3 or Resistance 3 displayed.

A final note on gameplay. As an observant follower of these games might have already expected, the exploration and puzzle-solving portions are almost perfectly enacted, but the obligatory, and often extended, firefights are less so. Partly, it's because the game's mechanics for it don't feel natural, especially the kind of close quarters combat that can lurk around any corner, where you may end up flailing away with a gun trying to hit a target right in front of you. We'd rather have more scenes like the dramatic castle escape that comes a few chapters into the game, which provides more thrills in a few minutes than a whole game's worth of gunfights.

Uncharted 3 is out exclusively for the PlayStation 3 on November 1, 2011.

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iRoc plans to turn your iPad into a car stereo

2011-11-01T15:53:00.000-07:00

iRoc plans to turn your iPad into a car stereo | The Car Tech blog - CNET Reviews CNET Reviews Home You are here: Reviews Cell Phones Camcorders Digital Cameras Laptops TVs Car Tech Forums Appliances Cell Phone Accessories Components Desktops Games and Gear GPS Hard Drives & Burners Headphones Home Audio Home Video Internet Access Monitors MP3 Players Networking and Wi-Fi Peripherals Printers Software Tablets Web Hosting News Latest News Webware Crave Business Tech Green Tech Mobile Security Blogs Video Photos Media Cutting Edge Apple Politics & Law Gaming & Culture Microsoft Health Tech RSS Download Windows Software Mac Software Mobile Apps Web Apps CNET TV How To Phone Tablet Computer Web Home Theater Log In | Join Log In Join CNET Sign in with My profile Log out

CNET Reviews The Car Tech blog iRoc plans to turn your iPad into a car stereo by Liane Yvkoff October 31, 2011 4:00 PM PDT Follow @faildater The iRoc for iPhone car stereo.

(Credit:Jackson Electronics)

Acar audio startup in Texas is hoping to capitalize on thetablet boom by creating an aftermarket stereo that you control with youriPad.

Last summer, Jackson Electronics launched its iRoc stereo, which uses the driver's iPhone mounted on the deck's face. The Austin-based company recently announced that it's working on a special adapter that will enable drivers to mount an iPad on the head unit, according to an article in CEoutlook.

The iRoc stereo is equipped with a 40-watt amplifier and six line-outs for subwoofers and speakers. The unit is controlled by the iPhone's touch screen, and works with all of your favorite entertainment and navigation applications on the handset. With the iRocEQ iPhone app, available to download for free on iTunes, you can control advanced equalizer settings for the deck.

No new specs for the iPad-compatible iRoc were announced, and it's not clear how the deck will support the weight of the iPad over bumpy roads, or how the larger display screen will avoid interfering with other controls on the center stack. Another problem an iPad-centric car stereo presents is the lack of iPhone--or any phone--integration. If the vehicle is not equipped with Bluetooth hands-free call technology, then the driver will need to use a headset or purchase an aftermarket Bluetooth phone speaker. The new iRoc iPad adapter will be available in the first quarter of next year.

Gartner expects Apple to sell 46.7 million iPads this year, and other aftermarket suppliers, such as Scosche, are also exploring ways to find a home for tablets on the dash.

Source: CE Outlook

Liane Yvkoff Liane Yvkoff is a freelance writer who blogs about cars for CNET Car Tech. She is a member of the CNET Blog Network and is not an employee of CNET. E-mail Liane.

Follow @faildater Topics: In-car entertainment, Communications Tags: iRoc, iPad

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Space beer a step closer to coming right up

2011-11-01T12:17:00.000-07:00

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CNET News Technically Incorrect Space beer a step closer to coming right up by Chris Matyszczyk October 31, 2011 3:38 PM PDT

You are probably so stunned about the news of Kim Kardashian's pending divorce and Tony LaRussa's retirement that you feel like a beer right this minute.

But imagine if you were up in space. Shocking news filters through, you need to sip on a cold one, and well, there are certain logistical problems. Like burping.

When you burp in space, the liquid tends to come up with the bubbles and, well, what results wouldn't go down well at the French Laundry.

You might, however, be familiar with Vostok 4-Pines Stout. This is the beery brainchild of Justin Mitchell, a gastro pub owner, and Jason Held, an aeronautical engineer.

They announced their project last year. However, the way that Bloomberg Businessweek serves it, this beer is very much closer to being a celestial breakthrough in beverages.

Held, who once worked for NASA, and Mitchell got the idea for 4-Pines Vostok when they got drunk together. Actually, that is just my imagination, but when Held moved to Australia, Mitchell's 4-Pines Brewery happened to be Held's local pub, so please allow me the flight of fancy.

The problems they faced were considerable.

As well as the carbonation problem, the two had to decide how to make the beer taste like, well, beer. In space, your tongue tends to be as numb as the skull of a Kardashian-watcher. So this beer has to be robust in the tongue-delivery department.

So they brewed away and then took their beer into its first footage of the initial zero gravity experiment, which sought to see if Vostok 4 was flat enough and tasty enough. It seemed like quite a party.

One assumes that it already tastes better than Coors Light--and a lot better than Bud. So all that's left is to find a form in which it can be transported. This is an issue that Held's company, Saber Astronautics, is currently drinking in. Somehow, it would be a shame if they had to powderize it.

Then there's the small problem of getting approval from all the authorities that regulate flying into outer space-- something that will entail repeating the zero-gravity test. But surely the regulators will look kindly on an innovative and tasty finished product.

Alcohol has been in space before. Buzz Aldrin apparently took communion wine with him. A Ukrainian astronaut Yuri Melenchenko took a swig of (what he said was) vodka on the International Space Station in 2007.

But surely, if we're all going to have to live up there because soon down here will explode into billions of tiny pieces, we'd better get a move on with sending some space beer up there.

What else are we going to do up there? Watch satellite TV? And wouldn't you want to be the first to say to your Russian space bartender: "Vlad, a Vostok."

Topics: Random Tags: Vostok 4, NASA, space, beer

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About Technically Incorrect

Chris Matyszczyk brings a fresh and irreverent perspective to the tech world in his CNET blog, Technically Incorrect. He is a member of the CNET Blog Network and is not an employee of CNET.

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Skinny iPad 2 case puts keyboard on a diet

2011-11-01T08:42:00.000-07:00

Skinny iPad 2 case puts keyboard on a diet | Crave - CNET CNET Home Reviews Cell Phones Camcorders Digital Cameras Laptops TVs Car Tech Forums Appliances Cell Phone Accessories Components Desktops Games and Gear GPS Hard Drives & Burners Headphones Home Audio Home Video Internet Access Monitors MP3 Players Networking and Wi-Fi Peripherals Printers Software Tablets Web Hosting You are here: News Latest News Webware Crave Business Tech Green Tech Mobile Security Blogs Video Photos Media Cutting Edge Apple Politics & Law Gaming & Culture Microsoft Health Tech RSS Download Windows Software Mac Software Mobile Apps Web Apps CNET TV How To Phone Tablet Computer Web Home Theater Log In | Join Log In Join CNET Sign in with My profile Log out

CNET News Crave Skinny iPad 2 case puts keyboard on a diet by Amanda Kooser October 31, 2011 5:16 PM PDT Follow @akooser The Skinny's light weight could make it an iPad 2 case contender.

(Credit:Hatch & Co.)

There's an ongoing debate about how to dress up aniPad. Do you engulf it in an overly protective case or let it bare all of its naked aluminum glory? Do you sacrifice screen space for the virtual keyboard or add an external one?

You may not have to make quite so many compromises with the Skinny Keyboard Case from Hatch & Co. The manufacturer claims it's the world's slimmest iPad 2 case with a built-in keyboard.

The Skinny weighs 10.4 ounces with a Bluetooth keyboard that has keys in various shades of brown or gray. The $90 case is available in either white or black.

These aren't the chunky keys you're used to with a standard keyboard. The Skinny has a flat, spill-proof keyboarding surface, so you'll still get a bit of that virtual keyboard feeling when you use it.

You can compare the Skinny with some of the popular iPad 2 cases already on the market. The ClamCase for iPad 2 weighs 1.7 pounds while the relatively lightweight Logitech Keyboard Case comes in at 12.2 ounces and doesn't offer protection for the iPad's back.

If you fall on the case + keyboard side of the iPad protection equation, then the Skinny offers an intriguing alternative that won't completely turn your sleek machine into a chunky monkey.

Yes, it's pencil-thin.

(Credit:Hatch & Co.)

Follow @akooser Topics: Tablets, iPad Tags: case, Skinny Keyboard Case, iPad 2, Hatch & Co. @import "http://i.i.com.com/cnwk.1d/Ads/common/info_board/info_board.css"; Explore the BlackBerry Mall on CNET Learn about the new BlackBerry smartphones, read CNET editors' reviews, check out the latest BlackBerry videos and participate in the BlackBerry forum Visit the BlackBerry Mall on CNET

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Samsung Focus S, Focus Flash hitting AT&T Nov. 6

2011-11-01T04:32:00.000-07:00

Samsung Focus S, Focus Flash hitting AT&T Nov. 6 | Dialed In - CNET Blogs CNET Home Reviews Cell Phones Camcorders Digital Cameras Laptops TVs Car Tech Forums Appliances Cell Phone Accessories Components Desktops Games and Gear GPS Hard Drives & Burners Headphones Home Audio Home Video Internet Access Monitors MP3 Players Networking and Wi-Fi Peripherals Printers Software Tablets Web Hosting News Latest News Webware Crave Business Tech Green Tech Mobile Security Blogs Video Photos Media Cutting Edge Apple Politics & Law Gaming & Culture Microsoft Health Tech RSS Download Windows Software Mac Software Mobile Apps Web Apps CNET TV How To Phone Tablet Computer Web Home Theater Log In | Join Log In Join CNET Sign in with My profile Log out

CNET Dialed In Samsung Focus S, Focus Flash hitting AT&T Nov. 6 by Jessica Dolcourt October 31, 2011 2:54 PM PDT Follow @jdolcourt

America's first "4G" Windows phone is right around the corner. AT&T recently announced pricing and availability for the Samsung Focus S, which will run on AT&T's HSPA+ network (not AT&T's 4G LTE).

Starting November 6, you'll be able to pick up the higher-end Focus S for $199.99, along with the budget and Samsung Focus Flash for just $49.99. Both require a new two-year contract and a minimum $15-per-month data plan.

Samsung Focus S, Focus Flash (photos) 1-2 of 6Scroll LeftScroll Right

The Samsung Focus S will feature a 1.4GHz processor and a 4.3-inch Super AMOLED Plus touch screen (from which I expect great things.) It will also have a rear-facing 8-megapixel camera to upgrade the 5-megapixel camera on the original Samsung Focus, and a 1.3-megapixel front-facing camera, which supports new software released in this fall's Mango update.

Meanwhile, the decidedly budget Focus Flash keeps the 1.4GHz processor and 5-megapixel camera, but adds a front-facing camera above its 3.7-inch Super AMOLED screen. In addition to these two Samsung phones, AT&T will also expand its Windows Phone offering with the HTC Titan.

Jessica Dolcourt Jessica Dolcourt pits phone against phone in the ongoing epic battle of the latest and greatest smartphone. Before that, she sat in judgment of smartphone and desktop apps. In her personal life, Jessica will not rest in her quest for the world's most perfect cheese.

Follow @jdolcourt Topics: Smartphones, Windows Phone 7 Tags: Windows Phone 7, Windows Phone Mango, Windows Phone 7.5 Mango, Samsung Focus S, Windows Phone, Samsung Focus Flash

Popular headlines HTC Evo Design 4G review: All-around excellent value RIM BlackBerry Curve 9360 review: BlackBerry for beginners Smartphones with long battery life (roundup) Dialed In #197: Zombie phones returned from the dead For car lovers, a Porsche-designed BlackBerry Latest Tech News Symantec uncovers cyber espionage of chemical, defense firms CTO for HP's PC unit announces retirement China launches unmanned capsule for key docking test South Korea fines six LCD makers for price fixing Copyright bill controversy grows as rhetoric sharpens Urban Airship to acquire SimpleGeo P2P marketplaces: Reach out and hire someone Space beer a step closer to coming right up CNET Blogs Copyright bill controversy grows as rhetoric sharpens Privacy Inc.

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HTC Evo Design 4G review: All-around excellent value

2011-11-01T00:28:00.000-07:00

HTC Evo Design 4G review: All-around excellent value | Android Atlas - CNET Reviews CNET Reviews Home You are here: Reviews Cell Phones Camcorders Digital Cameras Laptops TVs Car Tech Forums Appliances Cell Phone Accessories Components Desktops Games and Gear GPS Hard Drives & Burners Headphones Home Audio Home Video Internet Access Monitors MP3 Players Networking and Wi-Fi Peripherals Printers Software Tablets Web Hosting News Latest News Webware Crave Business Tech Green Tech Mobile Security Blogs Video Photos Media Cutting Edge Apple Politics & Law Gaming & Culture Microsoft Health Tech RSS Download Windows Software Mac Software Mobile Apps Web Apps CNET TV How To Phone Tablet Computer Web Home Theater Log In | Join Log In Join CNET Sign in with My profile Log out

CNET Reviews Android Atlas HTC Evo Design 4G review: All-around excellent value by Jessica Dolcourt October 31, 2011 4:20 PM PDT Follow @jdolcourt (Credit:Josh Miller)

MostAndroid smartphones sold for $100 or less are basic hardware shells that do an adequate job, but won't blow you away with their features. Not so the HTC Evo Design 4G. Sprint's fifth member of the Evo family is a slightly smaller (but hardly tiny) handset that's beautifully designed and imbued with a robust set of features, including 4G speeds and a decent front-facing camera.

The good: The HTC Evo Design 4G has an understated black-on-black design, Android 2.3 Gingerbread, and two cameras, and is a world phone. It comes with 8GB of memory preinstalled.

The bad: The stubborn back cover is hard to remove and the speakerphone could be better. A dedicated hardware shutter button wouldn't go amiss.

The bottom line: The HTC Evo Design 4G gives you a lot of smartphone for the money--fast 4G speeds, a good camera, a strong processor, and a sophisticated design. It's an excellent choice for Sprint customers, except those who are specifically looking for a dual-core phone.

Watch the video, see the pictures, and read about all the pros and cons of Sprint's HTC Evo Design 4G.

Follow @jdolcourt Topics: Phones Tags: Smartphones, Android, HTC Evo Design 4G, Sprint, Android 2.3, Gingerbread

Popular headlines The zombie apocalypse is here Smartphones with long battery life (roundup) Motorola Xoom 2 rumored to offer 64GB storage, 4G LTE support T-Mobile MyTouch and MyTouch Q available November 2 Verizon promoting HTC Rezound ahead of announcement Latest Tech News Symantec uncovers cyber espionage of chemical, defense firms CTO for HP's PC unit announces retirement China launches unmanned capsule for key docking test South Korea fines six LCD makers for price fixing Copyright bill controversy grows as rhetoric sharpens Urban Airship to acquire SimpleGeo P2P marketplaces: Reach out and hire someone Space beer a step closer to coming right up CNET Blogs Copyright bill controversy grows as rhetoric sharpens Privacy Inc.

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About Android Atlas

News, analysis and tips on the Google Android operating system and devices. Got a tip? Want to contact us? E-mail androidatlas@cnet.com. Follow us on Twitter.

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RIM BlackBerry Curve 9360 review: BlackBerry for beginners

2011-10-31T20:03:00.001-07:00

RIM BlackBerry Curve 9360 review: BlackBerry for beginners | Dialed In - CNET Blogs CNET Home Reviews Cell Phones Camcorders Digital Cameras Laptops TVs Car Tech Forums Appliances Cell Phone Accessories Components Desktops Games and Gear GPS Hard Drives & Burners Headphones Home Audio Home Video Internet Access Monitors MP3 Players Networking and Wi-Fi Peripherals Printers Software Tablets Web Hosting News Latest News Webware Crave Business Tech Green Tech Mobile Security Blogs Video Photos Media Cutting Edge Apple Politics & Law Gaming & Culture Microsoft Health Tech RSS Download Windows Software Mac Software Mobile Apps Web Apps CNET TV How To Phone Tablet Computer Web Home Theater Log In | Join Log In Join CNET Sign in with My profile Log out

CNET Dialed In RIM BlackBerry Curve 9360 review: BlackBerry for beginners by Nicole Lee October 31, 2011 3:49 PM PDT Follow @nicoleleeCNET (Credit:Josh Miller)

While the RIM BlackBerry Curve 9360 is a decidedly lower-end phone than RIM's Bolds and Torches, we think it's a great option for those still loyal to the BlackBerry brand.

It comes with the company's latest mobile operating system, BlackBerry 7 OS; it has a decent physical keyboard; and it's definitely an improvement over the previous Curves with its faster processor and better feature set. It even has support for NFC and for T-Mobile's UMA-based Wi-Fi calling service. For only $79.99 after a new two-year service agreement, the Curve 9360 is good entry-level smartphone for those wanting to give BlackBerry 7 OS a shot.

The good
The RIM BlackBerry Curve 9360 is slim and compact with a tactile physical keyboard. It supports NFC and the BlackBerry 7 OS, and can make calls over Wi-Fi.

The bad
The RIM BlackBerry Curve 9360's side buttons are a little too skinny for us, there's no HD video capture, and it doesn't support T-Mobile's high-speed HSPA+ network.

The bottom line
The RIM BlackBerry Curve 9360 makes a great entry-level offering for those already in the BlackBerry camp.

Watch the video, see the photos, and read the full RIM BlackBerry Curve 9360 review.

Follow @nicoleleeCNET Topics: Smartphones, BlackBerry Tags: T-Mobile, RIM, RIM BlackBerry Curve 9360, BlackBerry

Popular headlines HTC Evo Design 4G review: All-around excellent value Samsung Focus S, Focus Flash hitting AT&T Nov. 6 Smartphones with long battery life (roundup) Dialed In #197: Zombie phones returned from the dead For car lovers, a Porsche-designed BlackBerry Latest Tech News Symantec uncovers cyber espionage of chemical, defense firms CTO for HP's PC unit announces retirement China launches unmanned capsule for key docking test South Korea fines six LCD makers for price fixing Copyright bill controversy grows as rhetoric sharpens Urban Airship to acquire SimpleGeo P2P marketplaces: Reach out and hire someone Space beer a step closer to coming right up CNET Blogs Copyright bill controversy grows as rhetoric sharpens Privacy Inc.

A third serving of Uncharted territory Crave

Coldplay snub sounds alarm for streaming music Media Maverick

Can Apple make more stuff in the USA? Nanotech - The Circuits Blog

High-tech 'fertility chip' measures sperm count, motility News - Health Tech

What's Hot

Apple reportedly investigating iPhone 4S battery drain 121 comments

Will Redbox pull a Netflix with its price hike? 106 comments

Bill Gates: Being very rich is 'the same hamburger' 90 comments

iPhone battery drain--'Setting Time Zone' may be culprit 86 comments

About Dialed In

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