Tech Explorer

Hulu Japan lands HBO content, but don't expect any changes in the US

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 06 Jul 2012 20:23:00 +0000

Hulu Japan has mailed in a status update noting that its content library has increased by more than 300 percent since launching last fall, now amounting to over 800 films and around 6,900 TV shows. Newly added to that list is Mad Men and more notably, "select HBO shows" including Entourage and Sex And The City today, followed by Entourage and Band of Brothers later this year. Of course, similar to the situation that sees Showtime favorites like Dexter available on Netflix in Latin America but not here in the States, it doesn't make it any more likely HBO will suddenly become cord-cutter friendly at home -- this is an international deal only. Hulu does have more good news in Japan though, now that it works on more devices with the Wii coming soon and "aggressive expansion" planned for the rest of 2012. While it doesn't help the list of Hulu Plus-compatible Android phones grow any faster, there is a quick trailer celebrating the new content, viewers on either side of the Pacific can check it out after the break.

View the original article here

Nike+ FuelBand iOS app updated to run along your Path, sync in the background

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 06 Jul 2012 17:21:00 +0000

If you decided to snag the latest Nike+ wristband earlier this year, you're about to get some added functionality thanks to an iOS application update. First, the outfit has added Path integration to the mobile software. Users can now keep track of the sights they've visited while out for a jog or bike ride and share said moments / achievements with their mates. When the day comes to a close, those points-of-interest along the trail will appear on the app's progress graph. You'll also encounter background syncing by holding down the FuelBand's button alongside the ability to check battery status, offline data access and setting the time with your iPhone or iPod touch. For a quick look at what you can expect to see with the refresh, sprint to the gallery below.

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HTC One V now available from Virgin Mobile

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 06 Jul 2012 14:04:00 +0000

Rounding out the US launch of the HTC One lineup, the retro-inspired HTC One V has launched over at Virgin Mobile. The Ice Cream Sandwich device shares its Sense 4.0 software with big brothers the HTC One X and HTC One S, but other specs place the phone in a lower tier. It features a 1GHz Snapdragon S3 processor, 3.7-inch display, and 5MP camera. What stands out about the One V, though, is its design that harkens back to older HTC handsets, including the protruding “chin” of models like the Hero and G1.
The HTC One V is available contract-free from Virgin Mobile today for the affordable price of $199.99. Other than it’s low cost, the name makes it a perfect fit.

[via VirginMobile]

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Shuttle takes quiet nettops down the Cedar Trail, intros XS35V3 and XS35GTA V3

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 06 Jul 2012 10:16:00 +0000

Nettops have slipped a bit out of vogue, but Shuttle is keeping the flame alive for those who like their desktops tiny and hushed. The XS35V3 and XS35GTA V3 have moved on to more contemporary Cedar Trail-era, 2.13GHz Atom D2700 processors that keep the power draw to a fanless 27W, even when everything is churning at full bore. That limit might get tested with the GTA variant, which brings in Radeon HD 7410M graphics for a lift to 3D performance, but neither mini desktop will exactly make the power company beg for mercy. Either is a barebones kit with the laptop-sized hard drive, optical drive and OS left to the buyer -- if you don't get them at the same time, you'll have only the HDMI, VGA, USB and card reader to keep you company. Europeans are currently the only ones getting a crack, where it costs €172 pre-tax ($214) for the XS35V3 and €233 ($290) to get its faster GTA cousin.

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Inside Google's amazing Accessory Development Kit demo hardware (video)

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 06 Jul 2012 07:10:00 +0000

The coolest thing at Google I/O this year isn't a cheap tablet or a pair of overpriced glasses or even a killer keyboard. It is, believe it or not, an alarm clock. But not just any alarm clock -- this is an alarm clock with potential. What you see above, and demonstrated in the video after the break, is the gadget that was handed out to attendees who went to learn about the Android Accessory Development Kit. It has an array of RGB LEDs on the front which it can use to display simple numerals and digits, but thanks to a bevy of sensors -- and plenty of connectivity options -- that's just the beginning. USB? Check. NFC? Definitely. Accelerometer, colorimeter, magnetometer, barometer, hygrometer, thermometer? Yes, all that and more.

What starts out as an oddly shaped clock held together only with magnets has the potential to be hacked into something truly amazing -- and that's the point. With this, developers have what they need to try out all sorts of crazy ideas relying on a wide assortment of sensors. It's an empowering collection of abilities and, when a dev finds some combination that works, they can turn around and spin that into something new. We're very eager to see what eager engineers do with their ADK demo units, but for now you can see what it can do right out of the box in the video below.

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Fraudster Cons Customers Into Buying Potatoes Packaged In iPhone And iPad Packaging

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 06 Jul 2012 04:04:00 +0000

In the least offensive way possible and speaking as an Englishman, this type of scam could only be dreamt up in the north of England. A conman has been making cash packaging up potatoes and water bottles in original iPhone packaging and selling them as iPhones to unsuspecting customers, This is Hull and East Riding reports.

The first con happened on Sunday, June 17, when a man was approached at Walton Street market and was offered a deal for a laptop or a mobile phone. After being shown a selection of iPhones, MacBooks and laptops and agreeing a price for a number of items, he was driven to a cash point by the suspect to withdraw the money. A laptop bag was handed to the man but after the conman had driven off, the victim opened it to discover bottled water inside.

The second crime happened on Saturday, June 23, on the Kingston Retail Park and involved a man being approached by a man offering an iPad for sale. The victim went to the bank with the man offering the sale and handed over cash in exchange for the boxed product. The fraudster then left before the box was opened and afterwards the victim found a bottle of water inside.

A third victim was targeted outside Sainsbury’s in Spring Bank on Sunday when a man handed over cash for an iPhone. Opening the bag after his purchase, he discovered it contained only potatoes.

It’s amazing to think how stupid you have to be to fall for this kind of trick. The scam also reportedly involved MacBooks and iPads, with customers falling for the con in much the same way. To firstly hand over lots of money to a stranger and secondly not to even check the item was indeed there before he left is unbelievable, and they sort of only have themselves to blame.

The suspect hasn’t yet been arrested, but he must have been pretty surprised that his scam worked. I certainly wouldn’t have bothered with it if I was trying to rip people off.

Author
Henry is a student who is a huge Apple fan, and has used their products since day one. He can remember how happy he was when he received the first iPod back in 2001 as a birthday present. He has an international background, having spent most of his life in France but he now lives in the UK. He is also a native French speaker and can also speak Spanish at a decent level. In addition to tech, Henry is an avid sports fan and has his own sports blog.

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Meet the New ModBook Pro: A Full-Fledged OS X Tablet Built From a 2012 13-Inch MacBook Pro!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 06 Jul 2012 00:29:00 +0000

It’s been a long time since I’ve heard the name AxioTron. Back in 2007, the company created a unique modified MacBook called the ModBook – a full OS X based tablet computer (several years before the iPad!). Well, I’ve got two words for you: They’re back!

The company this morning announced a new ModBook Pro conversion kit, using the new 13-inch MacBook Pro as its base. From the website (via The Verge):

Built from a unique enclosure conversion kit, the Modbook Pro incorporates and completely encases the original hardware of a new Apple® MacBook® Pro 13.3-inch base system. Its Wacom® digitizer delivers 512 levels of pen pressure sensitivity — more than any other tablet computer on the market. And its ForceGlass™ screen provides an etched, paper-emulating drawing surface.

The result is a sleek tablet computer run by a powerful Mac base system, with a highly sensitive pen interface and a natural drawing surface, all fused into one device you can take with you and use anywhere.

The custom tablet is expected to get 7 hours of battery life, and will be available early this fall. No word has been given on pricing so far – but if the previous ModBooks are any indication, you can expect to pay a pretty penny to get your hands on one!

For more information, check out the official press release, or the new ModBook Pro website!

Author
Glenn is Managing Editor at MacTrast, and has been using a Mac since he bought his first MacBook Pro in 2006. Now he's up to his neck in Apple, and owns an old iBook, a 2011 MacBook Pro, a MacBook Air, a third-generation iPad, 2 iPhones, and a Mac Mini that lives at the neighbor's house. He lives in a small town in Utah, enjoys bacon more than you can possibly imagine, and is severely addicted to pie.

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No profit in Nexus 7 pricing, says Rubin

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 05 Jul 2012 21:29:00 +0000

How do you take a tablet featuring a 7-inch display and quad-core Tegra 3 processor and sell it for $200? You leave no room for profit. And that is exactly what Google and ASUS are doing with the Nexus 7, the newly unveiled tablet that seeks to carve out a place for itself right alongside Amazon’s Kindle Fire. Google has a lot more at stake with the project, agreeing to shoulder all marketing costs and more in exchange for a tablet that was designed from the ground up by ASUS in a time period spanning only four months.

“Our engineers told me it is like torture,” said ASUS chairman Jonney Shih in an interview with All Things D. As to the mix of high-end specs at a $200 price point, Shih said of Google, “they as a lot.” According to Android head honcho Andy Rubin, when the Nexus 7 is sold via Google Play it is sold at no margin. Google is further taking a hit by offering a $25 Google Play credit during the initial round of sales.

It’s clear that Google is hoping to copy more than just the Kindle Fire’s low cost. Just as Amazon relies on the Kindle Fire bolstering the sale of Amazon’s digital and physical goods as a means of turning a profit off the device, so will Google rely on Google Play purchases and advertising revenue to make up for the lack of profit built into the Nexus 7's price. But Google won’t feel the squeeze. The company has been known to try out all sorts of strange products and strategies with little concern about making money, as they did with the original Nexus One sales strategy and continue to do with the strange and futuristic Project Glass. But in the case of the Nexus 7, Google’s willingness to meet customer needs and challenge the tablet marketplace might just pay off.

[via AllThingsD]

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FCC filing suggest Verizon could soon host the LG Optimus Vu

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 05 Jul 2012 17:48:00 +0000

A filing uncovered over at the FCC site shows us the outline of a device that looks remarkably similar to the LG Optimus Vu. If the 4G LTE logo didn’t give it away, the LG VS950 appears destined for Verizon. A quick check of the radios reveals LTE Band 13 support as well as CDMA and GSM radios. Other transmitters checked out include Bluetooth, WiFi, and NFC.

The Optimus Vu launched as a Galaxy Note competitor with a large 5-inch display and unique 4:3 aspect ratio. We haven’t heard much on the device since Mobile World Congress, but if this is any indication, we can expect a Verizon launch at some point in the future.

[FCC via Engadget]

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RIM to join forces with Windows Phone in bid to survive?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 05 Jul 2012 13:48:00 +0000

Good bye BlackBerry, hello Windows Phone?

Research in Motion may have to bite the bullet and admit it's in serious trouble, with executives under pressure to do something radical in a bid to save the company, such as joining forces with Microsoft.

Earlier today we heard that RIM was going to delay its BlackBerry 10 operating system launch until next year, and cut a further 5,000 jobs, as the firm recorded larger than expected losses.

Reuters' sources say the RIM board is under increasing pressure to explorer other drastic options, one of which is ditching BB10 altogether, in favour of Windows Phone 8.

RIM is in deep do-do

The sources suggest that RIM is considering a partnership similar to the one Nokia has with Microsoft, where it would continue to manufacturer devices, but the software would come from the computing giant.

Apparently Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer had already approached RIM, in an attempt to set up a Nokia-esque deal.

Unsurprisingly RIM CEO Thorsten Heins remains positive about the company's future: "I am confident that the first BlackBerry 10 smartphones will provide a ground-breaking next-generation smartphone user experience."

RIM has always prided itself on offering the complete package of hardware, software and services, and the Canadian firm won't give up on its operating system easily, but it does need to do something drastic to avoid going under completely.

From Reuters

In Depth: 10 best tech comebacks of all time

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 05 Jul 2012 10:42:00 +0000

Sometimes the right person, product or company can be in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Brilliant ideas can be buried by bean-counters, the brightest firms can become bogged down in bureaucracy, and fickle fashions can doom perfectly decent designs.

Sometimes, though, the world of tech gives them a second chance — and the comebacks can be anything from amusing to awe-inspiring. These are our favourite tech comebacks. Have we missed any of your favourites?

10. The stylus

We had them for our PDAs, but then styluses fell out of fashion — and things weren't helped by a certain Steve Jobs, who said that if a firm's product used a stylus, "they blew it". But styluses are back! Back! BACK! Samsung and HTC are using them, and Microsoft's sticking digital ink into its Surface tablets too.

9. 3D

3D hasn't had one comeback, but many: it's been around since the early 20th century, boomed in the 50s, fell out of favour, came back in the 80s, bubbled under the radar a bit and then exploded with the help of CGI movies and James Cameron. Today it's in TVs, games consoles and even phones, although history suggests it's probably due to bugger off again any day now.

8. IBM

In the early 1990s, IBM was in trouble. It had become flabby and bureaucratic, was outgunned by younger, fitter rivals and was losing billions. Then, in 1993, new boss Louis Gerstner began to change what he described as an "inbred and ingrown" corporate culture by reversing the breakup of IBM into individual units, shutting projects such as OS/2 and tying staff salaries to company, not division, performance. In 1993 IBM was on Death Row; today it's worth $235 billion.

Watson was one of IBM's innovations

7. Adventure games

Many of us have fond adventures of point and click adventure games, but publishers reckon there's no money in making them any more — or at least they did until games legend Tim Schafer turned to crowd-funding website Kickstarter to try and raise $400,000 for a new adventure game. He made a bit more than that: $3,336,371. It seems that there's a market for adventure games after all.

6. Bigtrak

The eighties weren't all Thatcher and pop stars wearing tea towels: we also had Bigtrak, the programmable truck that was great for frightening pets and bringing you sweets very, very slowly. It made a comeback of sorts in 2010 with a small Bigtrak Jr model, but a much more fun, smartphone-controllable XTR version is due any day now.#

5. Nintendo

By the mid-2000s Nintendo had lost its console crown: its DS may have had the handheld, casual market, but you were more likely to see a Sony or Microsoft console under a TV. That changed with the Wii, which targeted — and still targets — a completely different demographic from its specs-obsessed rivals. Casual gamers bought them by the truckload, while hardcore gamers often bought Wiis to sit next to their PS/3s and Xbox 360s.

Nintendo's Wii brought console gaming to a whole new audience and outsold more powerful rivals

4. Windows phones

We've owned stacks of Windows Mobile devices, but the release of Apple's iPhone in 2007 hammered nails into the coffin of desktop-inspired mobile operating systems. It would be another three years before Microsoft did the right thing, took Windows Mobile into the woods and shot it in the head, but when it did it replaced it with something much tastier: Windows Phone. Credit where credit's due: Microsoft did a sterling job and made mobile Windows cool again.

3. Acorn Computers

The firm that produced the BBC Micro and Acorn Electron fell out of favour by the late 1990s, with its powerful Archimedes computer struggling to find sales outside of the education sector. Its processor, though, lived on: Apple, Acorn and VLSI Technology teamed up to form a new company, Advanced RISC Machines Ltd, which later became ARM— the firm whose processor designs power today's mobile devices from iPads to Samsung Galaxy S3s.

Even Windows is getting in on the ARM act: ARM's designs are everywhere

2. Tablets

If at first you don't succeed, try, try again: Apple's Newton didn't set the world on fire in the 1980s, and Microsoft's Tablet PC didn't take off in the early 2000s. It took a while for the technology to catch up with the vision, with low-power processors and multi-touch displays delivering what tablet computers had long promised, but it was worth the wait. Today, some analysts predict that tablets will soon become our main computing devices.

Ten years ago, tablets were a niche product. Now even your gran wants one

1. Apple

Fifteen years ago, people were praying for Apple's survival; now, it's the most valuable company on Earth. Apple's success turned out to be not one comeback, but two: its purple patch began when Steve Jobs returned from exile to regain control of the firm he co-founded. They'll be teaching this one in business schools until the end of time.

View the original article here

Virgin Mobile Now Selling Prepaid iPhone in Its Stores

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 05 Jul 2012 07:10:00 +0000

Virgin Mobile began selling the iPhone on Thursday, becoming the second prepaid carrier in the U.S. to offer the popular device.

The carrier, a Sprint subsidiary, is currently selling the iPhone 4 and 4S online, and beginning tomorrow, will begin sales of the two handsets in its new stores. The new stores are the first retail locations for Virgin Mobile, and will open in the Chicago area. If they prove successful, Virgin plans to open additional locations nationwide.

Virgin is selling the phones contract-free. The iPhone 4S 16GB model will go for $649, and the 8GB iPhone 4 will sell for $549. Plans for the phone start at $35 per month and include 300 minutes of talk time and unlimited data and messaging.

Author
Chris Hauk owns Phoenix Rising Services and writes for everyone's favorite "bad movie" website, Big Bad Drive-In. His first Apple product was an iPod Classic 5 years ago, and he has since added a MacBook Pro, iPad, iPhone, and 2 Apple TVs to his collection. He lives somewhere in the great Southwest.

View the original article here

Distro Issue 47: Made in the USA edition

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 05 Jul 2012 03:56:00 +0000

It's that time of the year when folks in the US of A tend to get a tad bit patriotic. Pretty soon, those of us in the States will be all about grilling and putting back a few hot dogs and / or hamburgers before rushing off to catch some fireworks. We're looking to keep the spirit alive in our weekly, too. This time around, we offer up a Made in the USA edition with editorials that tackle Nevada's solar-geothermal hybrid power plant and just how much coin it takes to offer internet in American Samoa -- along with a few more stops in between. The Nexus 7 and Nexus Q were revealed at Google I/O and we offer some initial thoughts on the pair of gadgets from the folks in Mountain View. Find yourself jonesin' for a closer look at that fancy Tesla S? You're in luck. You'll find some detail shots of the new $50,000 EV in "Eyes-On" this week. So what are you waiting for? There's a monster truck on the cover for crying out loud! Dive right in to the latest issue via your download method of choice.

Distro Issue 47 PDF
Distro in the iTunes App Store
Distro in the Google Play Store
Distro APK (for sideloading)
Like Distro on Facebook
Follow Distro on Twitter

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Google Drive for iOS Hits the App Store

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 04 Jul 2012 23:57:00 +0000

Shortly after announcing Google Chrome for iOS at the Google I/O conference, Google has now released Google Drive for iOS, bringing their recently launched cloud service to the iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch (available now from the App Store).

From the App Store description:

Google Drive lets you create, share, collaborate and keep all your stuff in one place. Upload all your files from your computer – even the big ones – and you can access them anywhere, including your iPhone or iPad. We get you started with 5 GB free.

Quickly share a photo with a friend 1000 miles away. Read the most up to date version of your document whether you’re at home, at the office, or on the go. Make items available offline so you view them while you’re on a plane. No matter what happens to your devices, even if your iPhone goes for a swim, your files are safely stored in Google Drive.

The app include a number of useful features, including the ability to share files with others, offline file access, and quick, easy access to your Google Drive content. The app should provide a decent challenge to DropBox and other multi-platform cloud storage services.

Google Drive for iOS is available immediately as a free download from the App Store (link). A video overview and full list of features can be found below:

Features:
- Quickly and easily access and view your documents, photos and videos anywhere
- Make files available offline so you can view them even when you don’t have Internet connection
- Easily share files with collaborators on the go
- Sync files across your desktop and all your devices
- Open files from Drive with other apps installed on your device
- Star your most important files to easily find them later

Author
Glenn is Managing Editor at MacTrast, and has been using a Mac since he bought his first MacBook Pro in 2006. Now he's up to his neck in Apple, and owns an old iBook, a 2011 MacBook Pro, a MacBook Air, a third-generation iPad, 2 iPhones, and a Mac Mini that lives at the neighbor's house. He lives in a small town in Utah, enjoys bacon more than you can possibly imagine, and is severely addicted to pie.

View the original article here

After more delays, Sprint’s Galaxy S III available from all channels starting July 1

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 04 Jul 2012 20:15:00 +0000

I think we’ve finally got it now, the official date that Sprint customers can walk into their local shop and plop down a couple hundo for the Samsung Galaxy S3. According to a post on the Sprint Community Forums, the 16GB version of the GS3 will be available in stores, online, and via telesales starting July 1st. The 32GB handset will be available online and through phone sales only. Pricing remains at $199 and $249 respectively.
There has been some confusion about the phone’s ship date after Sprint delayed the launch of the Galaxy S III on several occasions. The issue was further compounded through the fulfillment (or lack of fulfillment) of certain pre-order sales. For the sake of all those Sprint users awaiting the device, we hope this date sticks. And look on the bright side, at least now you will only have to wait 15 days to enjoy LTE speeds on your new handset.

[via Sprint]
View the original article here

GameStop plans to sell Nexus 7, starts taking Android tablet trade-ins

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 04 Jul 2012 13:07:00 +0000

Google's Andy Rubin suggested the Nexus 7 would reach third-party US stores eventually -- we just didn't think it would be this quickly. GameStop says it's taking pre-orders for the 16GB version of the Android 4.1 tablet starting today. At $249, it will cost exactly what it does in its currently exclusive Google Play home; in other words, one of the parties involved could be taking a voluntary hit on the already razor-thin profit margins. The 7-inch slate should be arriving roughly at the same mid-July timeframe as it is for those ordering straight from the Google source.

It wouldn't be GameStop if there weren't trade-ins involved, and sure enough, the game retailer is using the Nexus 7 as the lure. Confirming an earlier leak, the chain is now accepting Android tablet trade-ins worth up to $200 in cash (or $250 in store credit) depending on how pristine the hardware is coming into the store. Play your cards right, and you're very nearly getting the Google-blessed tablet for free. As an extra incentive, any gear whose exchange goes directly towards buying the Nexus 7 will get a 30 percent boost in value. Knowing the buzz surrounding the price-to-performance ratio of the ASUS-made Nexus, we won't be surprised if GameStop suddenly faces a glut of older Android tablets in its backrooms.

PRESS RELEASE

GameStop Taking Pre-Orders on New Google Nexus 7 Tablet
Trades of popular Android tablets now accepted in all U.S. stores
GRAPEVINE, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--GameStop (NYSE: GME), the world's largest multichannel retailer of video games, has again expanded its mobile electronics business with new trade-in and pre-order programs. The company is now accepting trades on a wide range of Android tablets and is taking pre-orders on the brand new Google Nexus 7 tablet (16GB). The Nexus 7, which was just announced at Google's I/O developer conference, is the first tablet to feature the latest Android OS – Jelly Bean – and will be available for $249 in mid-July.
"With the increasing popularity of Android tablets and the emerging multiscreen gaming trend, this is the ideal time to expand the program to meet the needs of our hybrid customers."
Beginning tomorrow, consumers can pre-order the Nexus 7 at all U.S. GameStop stores. GameStop customers can also take advantage of a 30% trade bonus on all items traded towards the pre-order of the Nexus 7. This includes trades of video game hardware, software and accessories as well as iDevices and eligible Android tablets.
"We've seen great consumer enthusiasm for our recommerce initiatives, particularly our iDevice trade program that launched last fall," stated GameStop president Tony Bartel. "With the increasing popularity of Android tablets and the emerging multiscreen gaming trend, this is the ideal time to expand the program to meet the needs of our hybrid customers."
For consumers looking to trade in an Android tablet, all U.S. GameStop stores are now offering instant cash or in-store credit for Android tablets from a variety of top brands. Trade values, ranging up to $250 in-store credit or $200 cash, are based on model, memory size and physical condition. GameStop also offers a recycling option to help consumers properly dispose of non-working or damaged tablets.
To learn more about GameStop's latest tablet offerings, visit www.GameStop.com/Tablets.

View the original article here

Review: Ion iCade Mobile – An Affordable Classic Gamepad for iPhone and iPod touch!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 04 Jul 2012 09:07:00 +0000

The original iCade arcade cabinet for iPad (review) was a magical device – the first of its kind, allowing users to play classic games otherwise lost in time, and enjoy a real arcade-like experience while doing it. While at CES 2012 in January, I noticed that the iCade now has a little brother: The iCade Mobile.

Overview

Like the original iCade, the iCade Mobile allows you to use traditional buttons and gaming controls to play a variety of classic (and modern, in some cases) games. But where the original iCade was designed for the iPad, the iCade Mobile was designed with iPhone and iPod touch users in mind, transforming your device into a Sony PSP-like mobile gaming powerhouse!

Design / Durability

The iCade Mobile is incredibly visually appealing, featuring design aspects similar to the iPhone itself, sporting a black exterior with silver/chrome trim. It just can’t be denied (at least in my eyes) that this is one gorgeous piece of gaming hardware.

In terms of size and shape, the iCade Mobile closely resembles the feel of the Sony PSP. The device is also extremely light, which is generally a good thing. Unfortunately, in this case, the build quality suffers somewhat as a result. The iCade Mobile is far less rugged and durable than I’d hoped, and in fact feels somewhat flimsy, especially when gripping the controller tightly during high-intensity gaming.

Despite its lack of durability, the buttons (4 action buttons, a D-pad, and four shoulder buttons) are firm against the fingers, while remaining easy to press, and avoiding that “mushy” feeling that low-budget game controllers are often known for. It also does a great job of nestling the iPhone in a secure silicon holster, which rests in the center of the device.

The iCade Mobile is powered by two AA batteries, which makes it ideal for longer gaming sessions. Unfortunately, the way the iCade Mobile cradles the iPhone counteracts the benefit of replaceable batteries. The silicon iPhone and iPod touch cradle blocks access to the 30-pin connector, making it impossible to recharge the iPhone while gaming. It also blocks the volume buttons, making it difficult to adjust your volume depending on your gaming environment.

Depending on which game you choose, this could significantly reduce the duration of your gaming sessions. I would find the design much more appealing if the device connected with the iPhone’s 30-pin connector, and featured a rechargeable battery that could power both the controller and the iPhone, and which could be used while plugged in via micro-USB in order to extend play time in a pinch.

Gameplay/Comfort

While the iCade Mobile does have some design concerns, and is certainly not perfect, it does have several redeeming factors. The iCade Mobile offers an exceptional gameplay experience, and is designed for maximum comfort. I found myself able to comfortable use the device for several hours at a time without significant fatigue. It feels great, matches the contours of your hand, and offers nearly ideal button action.

Another notable plus to the iCade Mobile is compatibility – it works with any game that supports the original iCade, including the well loved iMame emulator that was rejected from the App Store (although you can still get it on a jailbroken device). Right out of the box, it can be used with hundreds of available App Store titles (any game supported by the original iCade, click here for a full list)!

While the gameplay of the iCade Mobile is generally good, there are a few cases where things don’t always work well. Some games that were specifically designed for the original iCade use control schemes that make them difficult to play with the iCade Mobile – perhaps building two or even three “controller modes” into the iCade API could help counter this.

Another issue I encountered (although it should be noted that this is certainly nor the fault of Ion or the iCade Mobile), is that some iPad games support the iCade, while their iPhone and iPod touch counterparts lack iCade support.

Verdict

Although the iCade Mobile does have a few flaws and areas for improvement, it does provide a fantastic gameplay experience overall, and is a great way to bring a hefty dose of retro to the iOS gaming experience. For those who understand and accept its flaws, the iCade is a fun and relatively affordable way to take your iPhone gaming to the next level.

The iCade Mobile is available now on store shelves (such as GameStop/EB Games stores in the U.S.), and is priced at $79.99 MSRP. It is commonly available for the street price of $59.99, however, and can be purchased from Amazon for $62.50 with free shipping. For more information, check out the iCade Mobile product page.

Pros
Extremely easy to set up and use.Compatible with a large base of games.Attractive iPhone-like design.Very comfortable to use, even for long periods.Relatively affordable ($60-70, average).

Cons
Does not work with iPhones in cases.Lack of rechargeable battery can be frustrating.iPhone cradle blocks volume buttons, mute switch, and 30-pin connector.Build quality feels somewhat cheap.

Google Confirms: Chrome Could Be Crashing Your MacBook Air!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 04 Jul 2012 05:32:00 +0000

Following numerous reports of freezing and crashing issues with new MacBook Airs in the Apple Support Communities, many (notable, Gizmodo) suggested that Google Chrome might be the cause of all of this grief. Google has now stepped forward to confirm those rumors.

In a statement to Gizmodo, Google states:

We have identified a leak of graphics resources in the Chrome browser related to the drawing of plugins on Mac OS X. Work is proceeding to find and fix the root cause of the leak.

The resource leak is causing a kernel panic on Mac hardware containing the Intel HD 4000 graphics chip (e.g. the new Macbook Airs). Radar bug number 11762608 has been filed with Apple regarding the kernel panics, since it should not be possible for an application to trigger such behavior.

While the root cause of the leak is being fixed, we are temporarily disabling some of Chrome’s GPU acceleration features on the affected hardware via an auto-updated release that went out this afternoon (Thursday June 28). We anticipate further fixes in the coming days which will re-enable many or all of these features on this hardware.

Google has temporarily patched the issue by pushing a patch that disables some of Chrome’s GPU acceleration, and is working on a permanent fix, which will be released in an upcoming update to Google Chrome.

Have you experienced freezing and crashing on your new MacBook Pro? Let us know!

Author
Glenn is Managing Editor at MacTrast, and has been using a Mac since he bought his first MacBook Pro in 2006. Now he's up to his neck in Apple, and owns an old iBook, a 2011 MacBook Pro, a MacBook Air, a third-generation iPad, 2 iPhones, and a Mac Mini that lives at the neighbor's house. He lives in a small town in Utah, enjoys bacon more than you can possibly imagine, and is severely addicted to pie.

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Unboxing the Nexus 7 [Video]

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 04 Jul 2012 01:42:00 +0000

You’ve already seen us go hands-on with the newly unveiled Nexus 7 tablet from Google and ASUS, so let’s rewind things a bit. This is the Nexus 7 before it has been ripped from its packaging and all the anxiousness and anticipation that goes along with it. What’s in the box? Well you’ll just have to watch to find out.

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AT&T Wanted RIM to Create an iPhone Competitor

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 03 Jul 2012 21:52:00 +0000

Back in 2010, while AT&T was the exclusive carrier for the iPhone in the U.S., it asked Research in Motion to develop a touchscreen smartphone to compete with the iPhone.

AppleInsider:

AT&T wasn’t alone in worrying that the popularity of the iPhone could give Apple too much power, according to The Wall Street Journal. While AT&T and RIM collaborated to make the BlackBerry Torch, Verizon and Vodafone also worked with RIM on the first BlackBerry touchscreen device, the Storm.

The Journal’s report lists RIM’s many mistakes over the years in anticipation of the company’s earnings report, which is to be released later Thursday. RIM is expected to report a quarterly loss.

Reported issues at RIM include what former execs call a “split personality in the executive suite” between former co-CEOs Mike Lazaridis and Jim Balsillie.

Lazaridis is said to have wanted to focus on a next-gen BlackBerry with a new operating system, while Balsillie wanted to license out some of RIM’s proprietary technologies. Balsillie’s were plans to use RIM’s network to offer inexpensive data plans and services to non-BlackBerry devices.

When RIM’s co-founders stepped down as charimen and CEOs of the company in January, they were replaced by Thorsten Heins. The company’s fortunes have continued to flounder, as earlier this month RIM stock fell to single digits for the first time in eight years.

Author
Chris Hauk owns Phoenix Rising Services and writes for everyone's favorite "bad movie" website, Big Bad Drive-In. His first Apple product was an iPod Classic 5 years ago, and he has since added a MacBook Pro, iPad, iPhone, and 2 Apple TVs to his collection. He lives somewhere in the great Southwest.

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Sprint launching LTE network July 15, starts with Atlanta, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, and San Antonio

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 03 Jul 2012 18:35:00 +0000

Ready to finally use your 4G LTE Sprint smartphone on an actual 4G LTE network? July 15th is the date to watch, at least if you live in Atlanta, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, or San Antonio. Sprint will be rolling out their next-gen network in those five cities first and join the likes of Verizon and AT&T as the three main providers of LTE coverage in the States. More markets will follow as part of a nationwide rollout, though Sprint hasn’t given any timeframe.

Sprint once stood alone as the nation’s sole provider of 4G coverage, but that was at a time when the company was banking on WiMAX as the future standard. The rest of the world went with LTE, practically forcing Sprint’s hand as they shifted their WiMAX network to subsidiary networks and focused on building up a network based on the more widely used wireless technology. The LTE network upgrade is not without other benefits, which Sprint says should include improved 3G performance and reception as well as a wider coverage area. Read on for the full press release.

Sprint to Unleash the Speed and Power of 4G LTE in Atlanta, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City and San Antonio on July 15
ATLANTA (BUSINESS WIRE), June 27, 2012 - As summer begins to sizzle, Sprint (NYSE:S) CEO Dan Hesse today invited Atlanta, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City and San Antonio customers to harness the speed and power of 4G LTE on July 15 and to further enjoy the top-rated customer satisfaction experience among all national carriers, according to the 2012 American Customer Satisfaction Index.
To better meet the growing voice and data demands of wireless customers, Sprint is building an all-new, nationwide 3G and 4G LTE network through the Network Vision program. This means that whether a Sprint customer is using a smartphone to share a picture or to check the Web, Sprint 4G LTE will make it faster. Coupling the speed of 4G LTE with the industry’s only truly unlimited data plan for smartphones makes Sprint the best choice in wireless.* Additionally, the new network provides significant enhancements to Sprint 3G service. Customers will experience better signal strength, fewer dropped/blocked calls, faster data speeds, expanded coverage and better overall performance as the improvements roll out across the country.
"The performance of both the 4G LTE and improved 3G networks are exceeding our expectations and we are pleased with the progress of the entire Network Vision program," said Hesse.
With the launch on July 15, Sprint will have debuted 4G LTE to millions of people in five major metropolitan areas with more market launches in 2012 to be announced later this year. By the end of 2013, Sprint expects to have largely completed the build out of its all-new 4G LTE nationwide network - with an enhanced 3G network - covering 250 million people across the United States.
The Wireless Industry’s Most Customer-Friendly Data Plans
In today’s competitive wireless market, the value of unlimited has never been more apparent. Sprint’s Everything Data plan with Any Mobile, AnytimeSM includes unlimited data, texting and calling to and from any mobile phone in America while on the Sprint network, starting at just $79.99 per month for smartphones.
Sprint continues the trend of delivering value to customers through its portfolio of 4G LTE-capable devices and unlimited data experience with Sprint Everything Data plans. Sprint has already launched five 4G LTE-capable devices for less than $200 - HTC EVO™ 4G LTE ($199.99); LG Viper™ 4G LTE ($99.99); Samsung Galaxy Nexus ($199.99); Samsung Galaxy S III ($199.99 for 16GB version) and Sierra Wireless™ 4G LTE Tri-Fi Hotspot, the nation’s first to support 4G LTE, 4G WiMAX and 3G ($99.99) (all pricing excludes taxes).
Over the past several years, Sprint has been working hard to deliver the best customer experience. Recently, the American Customer Satisfaction Index ranked Sprint No. 1 among all national carriers and most improved in customer satisfaction, across all 47 industries, over the last four years. Building an all-new network is the linchpin to make Sprint the company customers want to do business with.
The launch of these metropolitan areas demonstrates the continued commitment by Sprint to invest in its network through Network Vision. For the most up-to-date details on Sprint’s 4G LTE portfolio and rollout, please visit www.sprint.com/4GLTE.

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In Depth: 10 best free lightweight troubleshooting tools

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 03 Jul 2012 15:19:00 +0000

Figuring out exactly why a PC isn't working can be a complicated process, even for experts - there's just so much that can go wrong.

Our latest collection of Tiny Tools can help, though, by providing easy access to hundreds of lightweight, (mostly) portable and free utilities.

Whether you're suffering unexpected crashes or internet issues, Windows update or performance problems, there's something here to help you restore your system to normal working order.

And they're not just for geeks. Many of these tools are so simple that just about anyone can use them to troubleshooting their system problems.

1. WinAudit 2.29 - 924KB

When your computer starts misbehaving then it's usually a good idea to check how it's set up. You could head off to Control Panel, but it's quicker and easier to launch WinAudit, which shows you far more information in a single interface: hardware details, Windows configuration, installed applications, Windows services, startup programs, network settings, it's all here.

This really is an amazing system information tool for its size, then. And even if you don't understand all of it, you can save the report. Email this to a helpful friend and they may spot your problems.

2. Patch My PC 2.1.8 - 353KB

Another good first step when troubleshooting PCs is to make sure you're running the latest versions of your installed applications. Doing this manually can be very tedious, of course - but Patch My PC makes the process very straightforward.

Just download the program's single small executable, run it, and in a second or two you'll be notified about any missing updates for a host of common applications and utilities: Adobe Reader, Flash, Java, Firefox, Chrome, Opera, QuickTime, iTunes, 7-Zip, LibreOffice, OpenOffice.org and more, 56 in total.

3. Complete Internet Repair 1.3.1.1315 - 656KB

Manually fixing network and internet-related issues can be extremely complicated, but fortunately Complete Internet Repair is here to simplify operations. And it really couldn't be much simpler.

Step one: check the box relating to the problem you're having. So if IE is having problems, say, select "Repair Internet Explorer". Or if Windows Updates no longer work, click "Repair Windows / Automatic Updates".

Step two: click "Go", and the program handles everything else - there is no step three.

Be careful, though, don't apply a fix unless you have the problem specified (and, ideally, a system backup to hand), or you might make things worse.

4. System Restore Manager 2.0 - 716KB

System Restore is one of the most important Windows troubleshooting tools, so it's unfortunate the operating system does such a great job of hiding its various controls and settings. Still, it doesn't really matter, as the compact and portable System Restore Manager makes them all accessible from one location.

You can view your recent restore points, for instance; delete any you don't need; create a new restore point, or choose one to restore your system.

And whether you want to choose the amount of drive space allocated to system restore, or decide how frequently restore points will be created, the program makes it just as easy.

5. GPU Shark 0.6.3 - 535KB

If you're seeing crashes or other PC instabilities when you run graphics-intensive software (playing a fast 3D game, say), then it's possible that your graphics card is overheating.

To find out more, just run GPU Shark. You'll be able to monitor GPU temperatures, fan speeds, memory and clock speeds, voltages and other low-level essential technical details, more than enough to help experienced users figure out what's going on. (And a remarkable level of detail considering the program is so lightweight, running from just a single 535KB executable.)

6. GeekUninstaller 1.0.2.4 - 1.75MB

Regular uninstall programs are generally useless, leaving behind a host of junk files and Registry keys to clutter your system and slow your PC down. GeekUninstaller can help, though, scanning your PC for leftovers and making sure it's cleaned up properly.

It can remove programs even if the regular uninstall tool doesn't work. And best of all it requires no installation itself: just run the program and it's ready to go immediately.

7. Recuva 1.42 Portable - 2.08MB

Every troubleshooting toolkit needs a decent Undelete program, and Recuva is a very good indeed. Choose the type of files you'd like to recover (pictures, music, documents, more), and it'll scan the relevant drive (or your entire system) in a flash. A Preview window makes it easy to find your lost files, and you can restore them in a couple of clicks.

The only problem: Recuva isn't quite as tiny as we'd like for this particular set of tools. That's because it includes both the 64 and 32-bit edition, though, and deleting Recuva64.exe takes this portable installation down to just a little over 2MB.

8. Snap2HTML 1.5 - 325KB

When you're trying to troubleshoot a PC problem then it often helps to be able to browse the files on its drive. The PC is on the other side of the world? That's where Snap2HTML comes in. Point the program at a drive and it'll create an in-depth HTML report recording every file. And this isn't just a static list, it's a dynamic HTML file which you can browse just like Explorer, making it incredibly easy to find the information you need.

(Beware, the report can become very large on a big drive, making it slow to load. Point it to the particular root folder you need to check, if possible - C:\Program Files, say.)

9. Complete windows Repair 1.7.5 - 4.31MB

If you're struggling with a complex PC problem and not getting anywhere, Complete windows Repair may be worth a try. This one program can fix issues with the IE, the Windows firewall, your Registry, network, DVD drives, Windows services, sidebar/ gadgets, Windows Update, the Windows Installer and more, all virtually automatically while you sit back and watch.

Please note, though, this is strong medicine, and can sometimes cause more problems than it solves. Make sure you create a system restore point before running any fixes, as the program recommends. And ideally you should have a full system backup available, too.

10. Windows System Control Centre 2.0.5.0 - 3.37MB

Nirsoft and Sysinternals produce the best tiny troubleshooting tools to be found anywhere. But with more than 250 in total, finding those you need, downloading and managing them can be a problem - unless you install Windows System Control Centre (WSCC).

This fabulous program has a central console which organises both suites of tools into sensible categories: "File and Disk", "Network", "Video/ Audio", "Web Browser" and more.

Helpful descriptions ensure that, whatever your PC problem, you'll quickly find a program to help. And in a couple of clicks you can download and install everything, ready for running on any USB flash drive: the perfect portable troubleshooting toolkit.

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Does Apple Have Big Plans for Podcasts?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 03 Jul 2012 11:40:00 +0000

Podcasts were first brought to iTunes in 2005, and after a strong push, they seem to have fallen to the wayside. With the release of Apple’s Podcasts app this week, could Apple be announcing to the world that they’re finally taking podcasts seriously?

Cult of Mac:

No longer are podcasts simply another section in the iTunes app, they’ve now been brought to the forefront with a great dedicated app, similar to what Apple did with iTunes U not long ago. There are several reasons why Apple may have decided to do this. The first, and most obvious reason is that podcasting as a medium of distributing information has surged in popularity recently. Even just within the technology space podcasts are becoming a popular way to spread information.

Apple is always on the lookout for ways to monetize content, and podcasts could become a perfect way to add to their cash pile. Currently, Apple makes nothing from having podcasts available on iTunes, and podcast creators need to find sponsors to make their ventures profitable.

iOS 6 may change all this. The new Podcasts app Apple released has a feature only visible currently to iOS 6 beta users. A “Redeem” button, similar to ones found in the iTunes and App Stores, is present in the app, if you’re running iOS 6 on your device. Currently all podcasts are free, so a “Redeem” button makes no sense. But, if Apple started a paid subscription model for podcasts, then it all starts to come together.

A subscription system could be handled the same way Apple does the App Store. Publishers would charge a subscription fee, and Apple would take its 30% commission right off the top. Everyone wets their beak. It’s an income stream for the content providers, and for Apple. Apple would then have some incentive to start promoting podcasts more than they currently do.

This is all speculation at the moment, but it’s an intriguing idea. I think we all look forward to seeing how Apple “Redeems” this.

Author
Chris Hauk owns Phoenix Rising Services and writes for everyone's favorite "bad movie" website, Big Bad Drive-In. His first Apple product was an iPod Classic 5 years ago, and he has since added a MacBook Pro, iPad, iPhone, and 2 Apple TVs to his collection. He lives somewhere in the great Southwest.

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Did the DROID Incredible 4G drop the “G” or was this simply a marketing mistake?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 03 Jul 2012 08:03:00 +0000

We were excited to see that a supposed HTC DROID Incredible 4G may exist thanks to marketing materials posted over at AndroidForums.com, but this isn’t a new device at all: it’s the HTC DROID Incredible 4G we got our hands on last month, but this ad refers to it as the HTC DROID Incredible 4.

A possibility is that Verizon dropped the “G” in 4G, but this would be a long shot considering there has yet to be a third device in the DROID Incredible series.

This device will be worthy of donning the Incredible name, though, as it has exceptional build quality and a nice S4 processor to make for a very smooth experience. Be wary, though, as this isn’t being touted as a Hero device.

While the S4 processor is comparable to the one inside the Hero devices on the other three big US carriers, the Incredible 4G is notably missing the “ImageSense” technology that allows you to take a series of photos in quick succession. The 8 megapixel HD camera is still nice, though, and it should please anyone who doesn’t need that continuous burst. Take a look at the image above. [via AndroidForums.com, thanks valorian!]

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Coca-Cola's A011 vending machine keeps drink cool without using (much) power

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 03 Jul 2012 04:45:00 +0000

So maybe that self-chilling soda didn't pan out, but Coca-Cola is working on another method for keeping its beverages cool without using power. In partnership with Fuji Electric Retail Systems, the company has developed the A011 vending machine, which is capable of keeping drinks frosty for up to 16 hours a day without using energy. The A011 works by shifting the cooling process from mid-day, when energy use is higher, to nighttime, when there is a higher power capacity. Even after the machine stops powering the chilling, the unit's temperature only rises slightly, thanks to vacuum insulation and an airtight design. Great in theory, right? Well Coca-Cola Japan will put the product to the test this summer with a two-month pilot program in two of Japan's toastiest areas, Tajimi City in Gifu Prefecture and Kumagaya City in Saitama Prefecture. If things go well, the company will tweak the A011 to extend the amount of time it can go without power. Room-temperature soda is the worst, so here's hoping it works.

PRESS RELEASE

TOKYO, June 27, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Coca-Cola (Japan) Co., Ltd., together with Fuji Electric Retail Systems Co., Ltd. announced on June 27 they have succeeded in developing the "A011" peak-shift vending machine. This vending machine, developed as part of the "Apollo" ultra-energy-saving vending machine development project, can operate without using power for cooling for up to 16 hours per day. The A011 vending machine will be field-tested beginning on July 2.
The successfully developed A011 peak-shift vending machine "shifts" use of power for cooling from the usual "peak" midday times to the nighttime, when there is relative surplus power capacity.
In conventional vending machines, the temperature in the machine would rise slowly if cooling was stopped for long periods of time since only a portion of the products stored inside of it were cooled in response to sales in order to limit electricity consumed. However, in the peak-shift vending machine, "A011", all products stored in it are cooled during the nighttime when there is relatively more power available. By bringing about cooling effects to all products stored in it even after cooling functions have stopped, the rise in temperature in the storage unit is limited even after cooling has been stopped for a long period of time. In addition, by using more vacuum insulation materials, insulation has improved and the machine is not affected as much by outside temperature. In addition, we made efforts to make it difficult for cold air to escape by making the doors more air-tight. With these efforts, we are able to respond to government requests to save energy and to provide cold products.
In preparation for full-fledged market launch, the A011 peak-shift vending machine will be field-tested for two months, starting from July 2, in Saitama Prefecture's Kumagaya City and Gifu Prefecture's Tajimi City, the hottest regions in Japan. After verifying the new model's performance, Coca-Cola will work to maximize their peak-shift functionality, extending the amount of time they can go without using power for cooling during time slots when power is generally in short supply.
Since the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011, Coca-Cola Japan has led the industry in announcing and implementing specific round-robin cooling suspension measures in its vending machines. In winter 2011, the geographical scope of these power saving efforts was expanded. Coca-Cola Japan has announced that in summer 2012, round-robin cooling suspension will be used in all areas except Okinawa Prefecture, cutting power usage by 15%. These initiatives will start from July 2.
All newly purchased can and PET vending machines have been HFC-free since 2011, and LED lighting is being used in all vending machines since 2012. As a company that exists in harmony with society, Coca-Cola Japan is always at the forefront of identifying and responding to society's needs.
(*) The maximum number of products that can be stored were cooled for eight hours at night in a 32C test environment, and these products were able to be provided at below 5C without using electricity for cooling after this. Daytime energy use reduced by 95%.

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