Gadgetell

AT&T creates Verizon attack ad. Could this get any better?

NEWS — 2009-11-20T21:06:43+00:00

FROM APPLETELL - I’m sure the advertising departments at both Verizon and AT&T are having a lot of fun with this battle over each company’s 3G service, and AT&T has just fired back.
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Wine the geek way: mini-survey+QR code+iPhone app=wine for you

JG Mason — 2009-11-20T20:39:11+00:00

Section: Communications, Smartphones, Gadgets / Other, Household

If you are like me, you can’t remember what wines you love and what you just end up pouring down the sink. 94 Wines looks to solve that problem by offering 94 different, purportedly high quality wines and an ultra-geeky way to find out which you might like.

94 Wines uses a quick 6-question survey that pits flavors and textures against one another. Questions like sorbet or ice cream? Tapas or full meal? Butter or olive oil? The questions end result is three wines that would suit your tastes. But the fun doesn’t end there.

A QR code (fancy bar code) is on each bottle. With their mobile phones, users can snap an image of the code with their phone and decode it with available apps, even for the iPhone. Each bottle can be labeled with a custom QR code for your order. Users can leave messages for one another, private messages sent to your user profile, images, you name it. Making wine more social is the name of the game.

The bottles are simple, attractive and if there is good wine in them, the more the better. Each bottle costs about $12 which certainly isn’t expensive.

The concept is great. Unfortunately, 94 wines is currently only available in the Netherlands. You’ve been thinking about moving anyway right?

Company site: [94Wines]

Full Story » | Written by JG Mason for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

So Hot Right Now: Top 10 Gadgetell posts for the week of November 15, 2009

NEWS — 2009-11-20T19:16:37+00:00

Section:

Haven’t caught all of the Gadgetell news this week? Here’s your chance to catch up on this week’s top 10 articles!

Radio Shack slashes netbook $100 for Black Friday
” Now preferred to be known as the Shack, Radio shack is offering the Acer Aspire One, A0751h-1279, for $100 less on Black Friday. This netbook will sell for $249 instead of $349. This model has…” MORE »
Black Friday 2009: Office Depot’s Black Friday deals leaked
” Office Depot’s Black Friday ad had been leaked. Here’s a look at some of the deals they will be offering this year. Computers: Acer Aspire 15.6” Widescreen Notebook Computer w/AMD Athlon X2 Dual-Core Processor…” MORE »
Black Friday 2009: Score a $78 Blu-ray player (and more) from Walmart
” We have seen a few good deals coming from Walmart including the $30 Pixi and the BlackBerry offers. Not to mention the sales on video games. But after digging through the leaked sales flyer for…” MORE »
BlackBerry Bold 9700 now available with T-Mobile
” As of this morning, the BlackBerry Bold 9700 is now available with T-Mobile. Price wise, the Bold 9700 will set you back $199.99 on a two-year agreement. Of course, T-Mobile also has the new Even More…” MORE »
Simple Mobile launches, offers cheap voice on any GSM phone
” New MVNO (mobile virtual network operators) are rare these days. There was a time when there were many MVNOs, but not any more, let alone new ones launching. Even rarer among those MVNOs are GSM networks. Most use CDMA like Verizon…” MORE »
Pioneer files suit against Garmin over GPS technology
” Japanese electronics giant Pioneer has filed suit against Garmin claiming the company is infringing on some of its patents that cover in car navigation technology. Pioneer has asked the International Trade Commission to block Garmin from importing the products that use…” MORE »
Samsung Go netbook heading to AT&T, available as of November 22
” I cannot stress one device enough—a MiFi. They allow you to take a 3G connection with you and share it with up to 5 devices at any time and they can be…” MORE »
Dell tablet coming to AT&T next year?
” While phone freaks are all up in arms about Dell’s decision to launch the Mini 3 touchscreen smartphone in China and Brazil before even mentioning when it will come home to the US,…” MORE »
Warning: Barnes & Noble gift cards cannot be used towards ebook purchases [UPDATED]
” We know that the Barnes & Noble Nook will be shipping pretty soon, and for some it may be an early holiday gift. But with that…” MORE »
The Palm Pre price drops continue, now $49.95 with Bell in Canada
” It looks like the price of the Palm Pre has just been lowered for those north of the border in Canada. Wireless reseller WirelessWave has recently lowered the Pre…” MORE »

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Amazon to offer a better Kindle library content management system in first half of 2010

Robert Nelson — 2009-11-20T18:07:46+00:00

Section: Gadgets / Other, ebooks

As many people who use a Kindle have most likely realized—the management of your books on the device is less than stellar. Personally, I have taken to just removing books after I have read them in order to keep my reading list manageable, or at least a little nicer to look at.

And with that it looks like I am not alone in that thought and it seems that Amazon has some plans to address this issue. The details were announced by way of their official Facebook page, but unfortunately those details are pretty light.

What we do have is that Amazon is “currently working on a solution that will allow you to organize your Kindle libraries.”

Furthermore, this solution is expected to be released sometime in the first half of 2010 and when ready it will come as an over-the-air update.

Read [Facebook Amazon Kindle] Via [Kindle Review]

Full Story » | Written by Robert Nelson for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

Who’s on Crack in Tech: 11.20.09

JG Mason — 2009-11-20T17:04:52+00:00

Section: Video, Portable Video, Communications, Cellphones, Smartphones, Mobile, Computers, Gadgets / Other, Features, Originals, Columns, Who's On Crack

This has got to stop. Holidays have got to stop creeping further and further toward summer. The nutjobs that scheme, “well, if we get our sale out first we’ll be the richest in the tri-state area” are morons. Seriously, the ABC Family channel is doing a countdown to the 25 days of Christmas. A frickin’ countdown to a countdown? Could it get more ridiculous? Here are 4 entries that attempt it:

Ah crap, the rumors been delayed.
Prepare for Black Friday
FLO TV for straight to TV movies and straight to sale bin hardware
Palm eats its young

An unannounced product gets an set back from an unannounced launch window.

This is just getting crazy. I blame everyone in media for this: from the big hitters like CNN Money to countless magazines who are reporting on Apple’s coming tablet. Apple hasn’t announced anything yet we are chomping at the bit to talk about. Even if launched yesterday, there is no way this tablet could ever live up to the hype. Not that we as consumer are even sure we want such a thing. I propose a month moratorium on not mentioning Apple’s iTablet. Who is with me?

Yeah, I didn’t think it would work.

Black Friday sales in the toilet

Anyone want to bet on something with me? The economic data that will come from Black Friday will be dark and gloomy. They’ll report consumer spending will skip this Christmas much like Kris Kringle wanted to do in the old TV movie. It is an all but sure bet. Why?

The monkeys are messing with the date. These Pre-Black Friday sales are very tempting and are going to lower how much we spend on that one day we use as an indicator. By stretching the buying season out, we’ll be so frickin fed up with the holidays we’ll throw in the towel before the season even starts. My inbox won’t stop the deluge of sale announcements, each one, killing a little bit of Santa.

FLO TV for the masses

Qualcomm’s little TV player sure is cute. The device plays TV, costs $250 and has a $9 monthly fee with 3-year commitment. That’s a total cost of $574 to watch, you know, free TV. The device is roughly the size of a cell phone, a cell phone that you can probably play some TV on for a fee. The cell phone in your pocket is free (at this point) and you know, in your pocket. So watch TV on that.

Even our ever positive editor, Robert Nelson can’t hold back, ” but thinking positive, 9 bucks a month could be worth it for the simple reason that this little device could serve as a nice entertainment device for the child in your back seat. As long as you do not mind handing them a $250 gadget to play with.” Nice try Robert.

This brings me right back the awesome gadget that just delivers RSS feeds. I love gadgets as much as the next idiot but come on, quit repeating stuff that is already out there in a better form factor. Now get to work on flying cars.

Palm eats its young

How are customers supposed to respect a phone that tumbles in price more than $70 its first 5 days on the market??? The 2nd entry in the webOS world from Palm, the Pixi, is so cute and cuddly, we thought it a smash at $79. But then anarchy reigned and Wal-Mart upset the apple cart at $29.99, then Amazon one-upped even Wal-Mart with $24.99.

Why devalue the phone so quickly? Too much Pre inventory seems to be the root cause. The Pre’s price has fallen down like a drunk senior citizen in the early morning. The Pre began at a reasonable $149 but now lives at the $79 price on Amazon. The welcome the sibling Pixi got is move over in the sale bin. Odd reception, even for a sibling.

At the very least, Palm commercials for the Pixi didn’t give anyone the willies as did the Pre versions. Bonus points to Palm.

Full Story » | Written by JG Mason for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

Amazon lowers Palm Pre price down to $79.99

Robert Nelson — 2009-11-20T16:26:51+00:00

Section: Communications, Cellphones, Cellular Providers, Smartphones, Mobile

That $24.95 Palm Pixi suddenly does not seem like such a great offer now that we learn Amazon has temporarily lowered the pricing for the Palm Pre.

The new price for the Pre is now $79.99, which just to begin with is much nicer than $149.99 (after a $100 mail-in-rebate) that Sprint currently has it priced at.

But additionally, by purchasing your Palm Pre by way of Amazon you will also get free activation (a $36 saving) and not have to deal with any mail-in-rebates. Its just a flat $79.99. Of course, you do still need to sign a two-year commitment with Sprint.

Finally, it is worth mentioning that this offer is only valid until November 23.

Product [Amazon] Via [9to5Mac]

Full Story » | Written by Robert Nelson for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

ViewSonic unveils the VPC101 all-in-one desktop PC

Robert Nelson — 2009-11-20T15:03:16+00:00

Section: Computers, Desktops

ViewSonic has recently introduced the VPC101, and it appears to be a nicely priced all-in-one desktop style PC. Of course, that nicely priced statement will most likely depend on your needs, but I am thinking extra house computer—something that will be able to stream some Pandora, play photo slideshows and maybe do some light surfing.

With that, the VPC101 is similar in specs to a netbook. And I say that because it has an all-to-familiar set of specs which include a 1.6GHz Intel Atom 230 processor, integrated GMA 950 graphics, 1GB of RAM and a 160GB hard drive. And being an all-in-one PC it also has an 18.5-inch display that offers a 1366 x 768 resolution. Additionally, this particular model is running Windows 7 Home Premium and that means it comes with the touchscreen features.

Price wise, the list is $650 and it is expected to be available sometime next month.

Read [ViewSonic] Via [Liliputing]

Full Story » | Written by Robert Nelson for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

Multitouch comes to Dell laptop in time for the holidays?

JG Mason — 2009-11-20T14:02:55+00:00

Section: Computers, Mobile Computers, Laptops

In the still of the night, Dell quietly gave the nod to the Studio 17 laptop addition to the touchscreen lineup. The laptop features multi-touch gestures for manipulating the screen as well as its own set of touch-enabled applications. The laptop is expected to ship next month for $899.

The base Studio 17 received high marks for design and user experience. The touch version adds only the touchscreen and apps. Unlike other touchscreen laptops of late, the Dell Studio does not turn into a tablet (by swiveling the screen).

All this is great right? Ready to head over and buy it? Hold up, the product page is gone from Dell’s site. We are unsure why Dell has removed the page from their site. The link to the non-existent Dell page is here. Perhaps an early test?

Either way this looks like an interesting laptop that might usher in an era where all screens will be touch-enabled. Are consumers willing to pay for this?

Read: [Electronista]

Full Story » | Written by JG Mason for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

Second generation Pogoplug unveiled, available today as a pre-order for $129

Robert Nelson — 2009-11-20T14:00:56+00:00

Section: Computers, Hardware, Networking, Peripherals, Storage

We at Gadgetell first found the Pogoplug last year during CES and since then it has remained a favorite gadget. But with that, the good news is that Cloud Engines Inc have just announced the follow up to the original, and with that comes a new look and some new features.

Just to backtrack a little, for those unfamiliar with what the Pogoplug is or does;

“Pogoplug acts like a gateway from your home or office through the Internet. It allows you to access, share and even stream your personal digital media directly to anybody, anywhere in the world.”

With that, the second generation comes complete with a new design which not only looks nicer but also allows the user to connect up to four external USB drives. New features include;

Automatically Synchronize Photos, Videos, Music and Other Selected Content
Drag-and-Drop Music and Photo Slideshows
Easier Sharing with Pogoplug Address Book
Global Search Across Multiple Drives and Pogoplugs
Organize Your Music, Photos and Videos
Play movies directly from my.pogoplug.com, or even to the iPhone

In terms of pricing, the second generation Pogoplug is selling for $129. As of now it is available for pre-order and expected to be shipping before the end of the year.

Product [Pogoplug]

Keep reading to check out the full press release…

Second Generation Pogoplug™ Unveiled Today
Next-generation Hardware Design and Software Provide Enhanced Storage, Multimedia and Social Media Capabilities
San Francisco, Calif. – November 19, 2009 – Cloud Engines, Inc. unveiled the second generation of the award winning Pogoplug multimedia sharing device today giving consumers more flexibility to store personal content safely in the home and access, manage, and share it from anywhere on the Internet. The new Pogoplug hardware sports an new design boasting multiple USB ports supporting up to 4 external drives for expanded data capacity. The new Pogoplug also gives users improved sharing capabilities, an easy drag-and-drop interface to create engaging multi-media slide shows, seamless media playback, and enhanced sharing with friends on Facebook, Twitter and MySpace.
Pogoplug acts like a gateway from your home or office through the Internet. It allows you to access, share and even stream your personal digital media directly to anybody, anywhere in the world. Your content always remains physically in your home or office, making it secure, convenient and available on your terms. Pogoplug is perfect for those individuals with increasingly mobile lifestyles and small businesses in need of simple, inexpensive mobile data access solutions.
“The reaction to the Pogoplug has been incredible. By listening to user feedback and following our own product roadmap, we are bringing a great second-generation product that gives our customers access to a host of new features that both improve the function of the Pogoplug, and add to the fun of using it as well.” said Daniel Putterman, CEO of Cloud Engines, Inc. “We are committed to giving our customers the best way to access their data from anywhere in the world, pushing the envelope with both product quality and design aesthetic. The result is what you see here today.”
NEW HARDWARE
The new Pogoplug design retains the simplicity and ease of use of the original while listening to consumer feedback and adding the ability to directly connect up to 4 external hard drives at once. The resulting product boasts an improved design with greatly improved functionality for users with multiple drives and an increasing need for easy synching and sharing of their digital libraries. This upgrade turns the Pogoplug into an even more prominent feature in the modern digital home or small business.
NEW FEATURES
Automatically Synchronize Photos, Videos, Music and Other Selected Content
Users can synchronize their Pogoplug with their PC or Mac to automatically import new content from popular applications such as iTunes, Windows Media Player, and iPhoto. This feature allows Pogoplug owners to “set it and forget it” and always have access to new photos, videos and music from anywhere on the Internet.
Drag-and-Drop Music and Photo Slideshows
Users can easily create and share fun and engaging slideshows using their stored photos, videos and music. Creating a slideshow with Pogoplug is as simple as drag and drop, and sharing these slideshows is just as easy as ever. Once a user’s link is shared and viewed, their slideshow will immediately begin with the photos, videos and music they selected, playing seamlessly in the viewer’s browser.
Easier Sharing with Pogoplug Address Book
Pogoplug Address Book greatly improves the speed and ease of use of sharing with a user’s friends and family. Pogoplug automatically remembers all email addresses entered in a user’s previous shares - even if that share no longer exists – and makes them available in an easy to use address book to make sharing truly one click away.
Global Search Across Multiple Drives and Pogoplugs
With support for multiple drives on a single Pogoplug (and multiple Pogoplugs on the same account) Pogoplug has added “global” search support across all of a user’s Pogoplugs and drives. Search filters are now a distinct feature, allowing users to view all of their photos, videos and music in a single organized view, or to search for a specific file across all Pogoplugs and drives.
Organize Your Music, Photos and Videos
Pogoplug automatically displays music by Album, Artist and Genre, and shows cover art for quick access to a user’s favorite music. Photos are now displayed by photo timeline and videos are only a click away, including the ability to watch a preview in the thumbnail itself.
Play movies directly from my.pogoplug.com, or even to the iPhone
Pogoplug now supports the playback of videos directly from a Pogoplug, with support for the most popular cameras, video cameras and mobile phones. Movies can be shared and viewed directly from the Pogoplug website – or even from an iPhone!
Pricing and Availability
We are currently taking Pre-Orders for Pogoplug at www.pogoplug.com Units will ship before the end of the year – just in time for the Holiday Season. The Pogoplug has a suggested retail price of $129, with no additional service fees.

Full Story » | Written by Robert Nelson for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

Apple Tablet delayed until late 2010?

NEWS — 2009-11-20T13:35:01+00:00

FROM APPLETELL - The latest rumor from DigiTimes claims we’ll have to wait even longer to get our hands on that Apple Tablet we all want so badly. But don’t get too sad…
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Haptic touchpad messaging phone from Pantech launches on AT&T

JG Mason — 2009-11-20T12:09:24+00:00

Section: Communications, Cellphones, Cellular Providers, Email / IM, Mobile

Pantech’s new Impact is now officially part of the AT&T line up today according to Pantech. The quick messaging device features a haptic touchpad that side flips to reveal a long qwerty keyboard. The phone will sell for $99 after rebates and contracts.

Remember haptic feedback? When users press on a touchscreen the phones buzzes to give the sensation of pushing a button is how it is often described. Pantech uses haptic feedback to give new users the confidence in using a touchpad . Almost all phone and messaging functions can be performed on the haptic touchpad or users can flip open the screen to bang on the keys.

Instead of a full screen on the front of the phone, the screen is extremely small and the rest is a large touchpad. The effect looks like a large touchscreen, common on many of today’s phones. It is a risky move, looking like something you are not.

The Pantech Impact runs on the AT&Ts 3G network for fast data speeds and comes preloaded with AT&T’s new browser The Impact’s large inner color screen is surrounded by speakers. The device also takes stills and video.

At the moment, I don’t see AT&T’s page for the Impact. It should be up sometime today.

Press release: [VPO] and [PantechUSA]

Full Story » | Written by JG Mason for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

Black Friday shopping help via SMS text or Twitter

NEWS — 2009-11-20T11:27:48+00:00

FROM APPLETELL - Get live Black Friday shopping help and tips from Retrevo via SMS and Twitter with their new RetrevoQ services.
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AT&T loses first court battle against Verizon, but says the war isn’t over

Sue Walsh — 2009-11-20T01:36:48+00:00

Section: Communications, Cellphones, Cellular Providers

AT&T Wireless’ war against Verizon was dealt a blow when a judge denied the company’s request for a restraining order barring Verizon from airing their “There’s a Map for That” ads that highlight AT&T’s truly pathetic 3G coverage. AT&T is furious over the new ad campaign, insisting it is misleading to consumers, and vows to continue the fight. Verizon responded in a legal filing:

“This motion is a blatant effort to ask the Court to do what the marketplace will not do: shield AT&T from truthful comparative advertisements that Verizon has a right to air and that consumers have a right to see.”

One wonders if AT&T would be better off spending money on increasing its 3G coverage than on this silly lawsuit. It’s inexcusable that a major carrier offers such lame 3G coverage when fellow carriers like Sprint are already offering 4G coverage. Its clear AT&T made the mistake of resting its laurels on the iPhone and for whatever reason, couldn’t be bothered to invest in its own infrastructure. This has resulted in a legion of angry iPhone users, who lament having a cutting edge cell phone with little high speed coverage, and angry non iPhone coverage who are unhappy at the burden the iPhone users have placed on the network.

GSM may be the more popular technology, but here in the U.S., given the troubles both T-Mobile and AT&T are having, CDMA carriers Verizon Wireless and Sprint seem to be better choices. Now if only Sprint could find a competent advertising team…

Read [PCWorld]

Full Story » | Written by Sue Walsh for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

Google finally outlines what to expect from Chrome OS

Shawn Ingram — 2009-11-20T00:13:43+00:00

Section: Computers, Laptops, Netbooks, Software / Applications, Web, Web Apps, Web Browsers, Google

After a few months of speculation, Google today finally decided to show us just what Chrome OS is going to be. Contrary to what some were hoping, there is no real beta to be had as of now, and Google doesn’t expect to have one for another year. What we do get today, is an outline of what Google is trying to do with the new OS, and what it would do.

First thing you need to know about Chrome OS, as Google stated before, is that as of now it is mainly focused at secondary computers like netbooks and laptops. The idea behind Chrome OS is that it will launch in seconds, bringing you straight to the Internet before most computers even boot. The entire OS is based around the Internet, including all of the apps. There will be no apps actually stored on Chrome OS, instead all of your apps will be web apps. There’s no need, according to Google to store anything on the netbook, the main focus is to use Chrome OS as a secondary computer to access web apps and the Internet.

While there is no beta as of now, it is possible to compile your own version of Chromium OS, as the source code was put up today just prior to the Chrome OS event (Chromium is the open-source, developer-focused section of Chrome). There are instructions on how to compile the OS from source. It might be a bit long and confusing for some, and it does require a Linux OS to compile it, but it looks to be a worthwhile weekend project if you happen to have a netbook with an SSD to wipe. While there are certainly arguments for and against having an OS that is only a browser if anyone can pull it off, it might be Google. Either way, I know I’ll be spending part of my weekend compiling code to try it out.

Read [Official Google Blog]

Full Story » | Written by Shawn Ingram for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

Appletell reviews Sonos ZonePlayer S5 with ZoneBridge wireless music system

NEWS — 2009-11-19T18:57:47+00:00

FROM APPLETELL - The Sonos ZonePlayer S5 wireless music system is meant to simply be placed in a room, quickly set up, and then used to stream the user’s audio to that room.
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TiVo slashes price on HD and HD XL - get Netflix, Amazon, Blockbuster and YouTube all for less

JG Mason — 2009-11-19T17:34:56+00:00

Section: Video, Accessories, Content, HDTV, Gadgets / Other, Household, Web, Online Music/Video

TiVo has reduced prices on their HD and HD XL units by up to $100 for the holidays. TiVo revolutionized DVR functionality and continues to drive services forward with integration with companies like Netflix, Amazon and BLOCKBUSTER allowing users to stream movies, even in HD, to their home TVs. It is unknown if the sale is a move to clear stock for a new intro or a reaction to recessionary consumer spending or lack thereof.

The HD and HD XL offer TiVo’s world class navigation and time-shifting recording. As a TiVo user, I am continually impressed with how easy the unit makes it for my family to watch videos and movies from an increasing number of sources. Even my 7 year old can navigate to Netflix and begin watching a movie.

While HD menu’s still continue to be absent from TiVo’s line up and access to your content providers On Demand content is still not possible (in most cases) TiVo is the gold standard of DVRs. Add to it streaming from popular services and it keeps getting better.

TiVo’s sale takes $50 off the HD to $299 and $100 off the HD XL to $499. It might be interesting to note shoppers can pick up the a refurbished HD for just $200.

Source: [TiVo Blog]

Full Story » | Written by JG Mason for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

HD HiFI music server blows away CDs, like Blu-ray for music

JG Mason — 2009-11-19T16:34:34+00:00

Section: Audio, Audio Receivers, Home Audio, Satellite / HD Radio

Today, Olive introduces some high-end audio gear that is said to have 250 times the resolution of a CD. The Olive 4HD Music Server not only holds up to 20,000 songs at HD quality, but will record at 24 bit. The unit is backed up by a host of accessible options that allow you to control your server from your HDTV or iPhone.

Removing the need to keep a music collection on a computer, the 4HD Server will store your music, convert CDs and even burn CDs. To get users started, the company offers to import up to 100 of your CDs for free, so the new system is delivered to them complete with your music already digitized. After the first 100, there is a nominal fee per CD.

“With a proprietary DAC featuring TI’s best-of-breed BurrBrown 1792A 192Khz/24-bit DAC, optimized circuit design, HD quality digital sound, ultra-quiet hard drives and passive cooling to eliminate fan noise, the Olive 4HD Hi-Fi Music Server delivers the best possible HD hi-fi audio experience. You’ll never hear anything like this on your computer, iPod or any other MP3 music player.”

To find music, users can interact with the 4.3 touchscreen on the server, use the HDMI interface that allows selections to be made on your HDTV or even use the company’s iPhone app. Each choice offers beautiful (in my opinion) graphics, clean and clear navigation, an impressive collection of ways to interact with music. Each offers full color album cover images.

Other features include the ability receive internet radio stations, more information about your music, infrared remotes to work through closed doors and has WiFi (802.11n) as well as a wired connection.

The 4HD Music Server costs $1,999 and is backed with a 60-day money back guarentee. The company says you will hear a difference in your music from the first note.

Company site: [Olive]

Full Story » | Written by JG Mason for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

Google Voice adds new options to display your number when sending SMS messages

Robert Nelson — 2009-11-19T15:16:29+00:00

Section: Communications, Web, Google

I have not made any secret as to my love affair with Google Voice, and thankfully that is backed up by the fact they seem to be improving and adding to the service little by little. And the latest little tidbit that was updated within Google Voice is dealing with SMS messaging. Or more specifically, the number that will be displayed when you send an SMS message using your Google Voice account.

“But when you - a Google Voice user - send a text message to another Google Voice number from one of the forwarding phones on your account, you probably want Google Voice to display the SMS as from your Google Voice number rather than from a (406) number. This way, the Google Voice user to whom you sent the SMS will see your Google Voice number as the originating number, the single number that reaches you everywhere.”

Personally I chose the “display my Google Voice number” option because, well, I am not sure why I would not want my number displayed.

Anyway, to check your settings or make any adjustments, just click Settings -> Calls and then go down to Caller ID (out). Once there you will see “When I SMS a Google Voice number from one of my forwarding phones.” From there you will have the option to stick with the default, or to have your Google Voice number displayed.

Unfortunately this setting currently only works with SMS messages, but it was noted that “calls will be included soon.” Of course, that just means more Google Voice updates in the future.

Read [Google Voice Blog]

Full Story » | Written by Robert Nelson for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

Black Friday 2009: Toys R Us holds pre-Black Friday game sales, allows layaway for consoles and more

NEWS — 2009-11-19T14:31:12+00:00

FROM GAMERTELL - Toys R Us is going to start holding pre-Black Friday sales from November 20-26, 2009. It will also allow people to trade in select game systems starting November 20, 2009. Game consoles can also now be put on Big Gift Layaway.
MORE »

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MSI Wind Top AE2220 all-in-one desktop PC now available

Robert Nelson — 2009-11-19T13:52:40+00:00

Section: Computers, Desktops

MSI has just announced that their latest all-in-one style desktop computer is now shipping. That model is the 21.5-inch multi-touch capable Wind Top AE2220.

Feature wise the AE2220 offers a choice between a 2.2GHz Intel Core 2 Duo T6600 or 2.1GHz Pentium Dual Core processor and comes with 4GB of RAM and a 500GB hard drive. Other features include a built-in card reader, 1.3-megapixel webcam, Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n and remote control. This model is also compatible with VESA wall mounts and offers an optional Blu-ray optical drive. Finally, the Wind Top AE2220 will be running Windows 7 Home Premium.

As for pricing and availability, the AE2200 is priced from $749.99 and up depending on configuration and is just beginning to show up with online retailers. Currently Amazon has it listed as a pre-order item, but at a slightly lower price of $699.

Read [PR Newswire]

Full Story » | Written by Robert Nelson for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

Speedy Android smartphone announced with Snapdragon processor

JG Mason — 2009-11-19T13:11:07+00:00

Section: Communications, Cellphones, Email / IM, Smartphones, Mobile

Sony Ericsson announced their first Google Android based phone yesterday, the XPERIA X10. The phone sticks with the Xperia slide out qwerty form factor but offers up a new user experience laid on top of Android. Sony Ericsson showed off a non-retail prototype with an expected release date in Q1 of 2010.

Sony Ericsson needs a hit. They’ve only two supporting carriers in the US, AT&T and T-Mobile, while they’ve done much better in Europe. Despite a strong following there, Sony Ericsson continues to lose market share. Sales were off by 45 percent at the last quarter check-in, year-over-year. Is this new phone just what the doctor ordered?

Maybe. The prototypes were running Android 1.6, the penultimate version of Android. It lacks all the flash and excitement around the newly launched 2.0, but perhaps an update is coming. The new UI or UX as Sony Ericsson likes to refer to as users experience looks impressive. Dubbed Nexus, the UI does what all new UIs are attempting to do today: combine social integration into everyday simplicity. Contacts from Facebook, Twitter, email, and other social interactions are combined and presented in unobtrusive ways to keep you connected to people that matter most. That is the idea, anyhow.

The phone features Qualcomm’s 1GHz Snapdragon processor and should scream, yet there seemed to be some lag in the prototypes. Many press and analysts found the UI to be impressive, but less so than competing Android overlays from companies such as HTC (Sense UI) and Motorola (Blur). The phone didn’t scream unique. While way too early to judge, using the press and analysts at their announcement yesterday as a sounding board may not have been the best route. We’ll reserve judgment until we see the full retail product.

At the moment, we’ve no launch date or carrier information to speak of. The off-contract price is expected to be astronomical, $879, according to the Wall Street Journal, a subsidized price from a carrier should be much less.

Read: [BoyGeniusReports] and [ title="AndroidandMe">AndroidandMe]

Full Story » | Written by JG Mason for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

Cisco unveil plans to include Wi-Fi in future Flip Video cameras

Robert Nelson — 2009-11-19T12:31:03+00:00

Section: Video, Portable Video

Flip Video fans will soon have another reason to get excited, and that reason will also make it even quicker and easier to upload and share your video. That reason—built-in Wi-Fi. According to recent reports, Cisco has confirmed plans to include Wi-Fi in the next version of the Flip Video camera. Additional details about that future model include that it will have “a large screen that slides to reveal the record and menu buttons underneath.” Unfortunately that large screen will not be touchscreen though. Otherwise details are pretty light, but this Wi-Fi equipped Flip is expected to be available sometime in the “early half of 2010.”

Read [Pocket-lint] Via [CrunchGear]

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Microsoft Store proves yet again their power to imitate; and rather embarrassingly.

NEWS — 2009-11-19T12:20:36+00:00

FROM APPLETELL - In the following video, Microsoft Store employees randomly start clapping and dancing the electric slide. Shouldn’t they be helping customers instead of trying to act hip?
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Office 2010 beta open to the public

Shawn Ingram — 2009-11-19T01:45:59+00:00

Section: Computers, Software / Applications

With Windows 7 now out in the wild for almost a month, Microsoft has time to unleash another beta product on us for testing. This beta comes in the form of Microsoft Office 2010. The Office 2010 beta will feature everything minus the online version, which is currently being tested within Microsoft.

Somewhat surprising for a public beta, the Office 2010 beta offers everything in the office suite. So it has Word, Powerpoint, Excel, Outlook and all those other programs most people don’t know how to use like OneNote, Access and Publisher. Office 2010 apps still feature the “ribbon” UI found in Office 2007, but it has been changed somewhat. In terms of entirely new features, Outlook will be able to be linked to social networking sites. First offered is Windows Live (obviously), and LinkedIn will be added sometime early next year. There is also the aforementioned online version, which will be paired with the new SkyDrive feature to give users 25 GB to store and sync their office documents.

Office 2010 is said to have improved interaction with Windows 7 and its taskbar, which makes sense. That doesn’t mean other users can’t download the beta, it’s free for anyone using Windows XP SP3 and later. With the forthcoming Starter edition which is said to be free for new computers, maybe Microsoft will be able to increase usage of the newest version of Office. Outside of a work environment, or after buying a new PC, users seem to not upgrade their office suite very often. For example, the .docx file format still hasn’t really achieved full support from users, with some just ending up confused. The new features do seem interesting, hopefully Microsoft will add them to the Mac OS X releases soon as well.

Read [CNet News]
Read [Microsoft]

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Appletell reviews Shortcovers eBook reader for iPhone, iPod Touch

NEWS — 2009-11-19T01:30:04+00:00

FROM APPLETELL - Shortcovers has a great selection of eBooks available in their store, and numerous ways to consume that media. I would almost describe it as the Audible of eBooks.
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T-Mobile suffers yet another black eye thanks to data breach

Sue Walsh — 2009-11-19T01:06:52+00:00

Section: Communications, Cellular Providers

If T-Mobile is trying to drive themselves out of business they are doing a pretty good job. First there was the great Sidekick Nightmare, which caused most U.S. users of the device to lose their data and the company to temporarily halt sales, and then a few weeks ago T-Mobile customers had to contend with an outage that left them unable to make calls or send text messages. Now it gets even worse.

The company is now reporting that it has discovered a data breach at its U.K. headquarters. Staff there was caught selling customers’ personal information to numerous third parties. Those parties then approached customers who were soon to be out of contract with sales pitches for other carriers. T-Mobile said this was done without its knowledge and that those responsible will be prosecuted.

T-Mobile, which recently announced plans to merge with fellow U.K. provider Orange, seems to be a company totally out of control. The constant service issues, and the severity of them, paired with this latest news, have left them with a very black eye that won’t soon heal. Their advertising and P.R. people have their work cut out for them!

Read [PC World]

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Sony Reader Daily Edition now available for pre-order

Robert Nelson — 2009-11-19T00:32:41+00:00

Section: Gadgets / Other, ebooks

Sony has just added the Reader Daily Edition to the available category, well a little more specifically, the available for pre-order category. That said though, there are not many more details than what we first learned back in late-August.

But just as a refresher, the Reader Daily Edition will sell for $399.99 and is expected to begin shipping sometime in December. Feature wise the Reader Daily Edition will offer a full-touchscreen 7-inch display and an aluminum exterior casing.

This model will also feature built-in 3G (tied to the AT&T network) and be able to offer users on the go access to the Sony eBookstore as well as newspaper and magazine content. Of course, the newspaper and magazines have not yet been finalized and will be “unveiled within the next month.”

Read [Sony]

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Video game deals in Kmart’s Thanksgiving 2009 sale ad

NEWS — 2009-11-18T23:30:51+00:00

FROM GAMERTELL - The Kmart Thanksgiving 2009 sale ad has been leaked onto the internet. While there are no doorbusters, you can get $25 gaming coupons if you buy a PSP or Wii. There are quite a few games on sale.
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Black Friday 2009: Score a $78 Blu-ray player (and more) from Walmart

Robert Nelson — 2009-11-18T22:18:10+00:00

Section: Video, DVD/DVR/Blu-ray, Communications, Cellphones, Computers, Mobile Computers, Laptops, Gadgets / Other

We have seen a few good deals coming from Walmart including the $30 Pixi and the BlackBerry offers. Not to mention the sales on video games. But after digging through the leaked sales flyer for Black Friday, we now have a complete list of nice prices—including a Blu-ray player for $78. Of course this is a lower end model, its the Magnavox NB500 and it normally retails for $129, but still $78.

Anyway, in addition to the low-priced Blu-ray player, Walmart also has a good selection of HDTV’s, computers, digital cameras, GPS units. Here is a quick rundown of some of the deals that can be found, but the full list can be found by hitting the ‘read’ link below.

DVD Players

Magnavox NB500 Blu-ray Disc Player - $78.00
Samsung BD-P1590 Blu Ray Player (Saturday) - $148.00
Sony BDP-S369 Blu Ray Player - $148.00

Televisions

Emerson 32” LC320EMFX LCD 720P HDTV - $248.00
Emerson 42” PL-P42W-10A Plasma 720P HDTV - $448.00
Flat-Panel TV Stand - $89.00
Philips Large Fixed TV Mount - $69.00
RCA 46” LCD 1080p HDTV (Online Only) - $688.00
Samsung 32” LN32B360 LCD 720P HDTV (Saturday) - $398.00
Samsung 42” LN40B500 LCD 1080P HDTV (Saturday) - $598.00
Samsung 42” PN42B400 Plasma 720P HDTV (Saturday) - $548.00
Samsung 46” LN46B500 LCD 1080P HDTV (Saturday) - $848.00
Samsung 50” PN50B400 Plasma 720P HDTV (Saturday) - $698.00
Sansui 19” HDLCD1909 LCD HDTV - $128.00
Sayno 50” DP50719 Plasma HDTV - $598.00
Sony Bravia 32” KDL32L504 LCD 720P HDTV - $378.00
Sony Bravia 40” KDL40S504 LCD 1080P HDTV - $598.00
Sony Bravia 46” KDL465504 LCD 1080P HDTV - $798.00

Computers

Acer 17.3” Blue Laptop w/4GB Memory, 320GB Hard Drive and Windows 7 Premium (Online Only) - $498.00
eMachines 15.6” Notebook w/AMD Processor, 2GB Memory, 160GB Hard Drive (Model # EME627) - $198.00
HP 15.6” Notebook w/Intel Processor, 3GB Memory, 250GB Hard Drive (Model # G60-519WM) - $298.00
HP 17” Notebook w/4GB Memory, 320GB Hard Drive (Model # G71-329WM) - $398.00
HP Pavilion All-In-One 19” Desktop w/4GB Memory, 500GB Hard Drive, MS213 AMD - $598.00
HP Pavilion Desktop w/AMD Processor, 3GB Memory, 320GB Hard Drive, w/20” Monitor (Model # P6243w-b) - $398.00

Digital Cameras

Kodak C182 12.0 Megapixel Digital Camera - $69.00
Nikon CoolPix S230 10MP Digital Camera - $139.00
Sony Cyber-Shot DSC S930 10.0 Megapixel Digital Camera - $79.00

GPS

TomTom One 125-SE GPS - $59.00
TomTom XL325-SE GPS - $89.00

Read [BlackFriday.info] Via [Gizmodo]

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Black Friday 2009: Walmart’s video game sale items revealed

NEWS — 2009-11-18T21:30:38+00:00

FROM GAMERTELL - The Walmart Black Friday 2009 ad is out! Get a DS lite for $98. Get an eMachine laptop for $198. Get a Sansui 19” HDTV for $128. Xbox 360 Arcade Madagascar bundle with 1 game and 2 movies $199. 120gb PS3 with 2 games and 1 movie $299.
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Amazon now offering the Palm Pixi for just $24.99

Robert Nelson — 2009-11-18T21:06:08+00:00

Section: Communications, Cellphones, Cellular Providers, Smartphones, Mobile

So much for having to head in to Walmart to score a low priced Palm Pixi because Amazon now has an offer of their own. For a limited time, well actually until November 23 customers can get a Palm Pixi for just $24.99. Which means you can save yourself five bucks, but better still, you can do so from the comfort of your own home.

Of course, there are a few catches with that price, but honestly would you expect otherwise. First, like I mentioned that offer is for a limited time only. But more importantly, you will have to agree to and sign a two year commitment with Sprint.

With price drops like this, it seems like it is just a matter of time before the Pixi becomes free on contract. Still $24.99 is not all that bad.

Product [Amazon]

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Gravity, water, cold - Casio’s toughest camera ever laughs at them

JG Mason — 2009-11-18T19:56:48+00:00

Section: Imaging, Digital Cameras

Drop it from seven feet up, keep it under water for 60 minutes, let water freeze next to it; the new 12.1mp Casio Exilim G EX-G1 laughs it off. Dusting off the Exilim rectangle look, this new design is one of many that will fill in the adventure series says Casio. Available this December for $299, I expect to see this camera on a bunch of wish lists.

This new Casio is just .78” thick, keeping it in the slender category. I am already appreciating the groove in the front to help with one hand operation while the large and well-spaced buttons on the back look perfect for gloved operation, nice when you are on the slopes. There is even an underwater bestshot setting, sweet.

One of my favorite features of the Exilim cameras is the super-easy instant video capture button. You can always find it, as they mark it red and you can see it on the G1 meaning videos are a snap. The camera even has a interval mode that will take stills or movies at predetermined intervals which would be handy when you are bombing down a ski run or on the trail.

Product site: [Exilim]

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History of Apple [video]

NEWS — 2009-11-18T19:34:54+00:00

FROM APPLETELL - There’s plenty of nostalgia to be found here. Sure, there’s “1984,” but how can you not love seeing those spinning, candy-like iMacs again? Even “Myst” makes a cameo.
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Is a free Gphone really coming this time?

JG Mason — 2009-11-18T18:15:23+00:00

Section: Communications, Cellphones, Cellular Providers, Smartphones, Mobile

TechCrunch is stacking up a bunch of rumors and is purporting that Google really does have a phone of its own brewing that they will bring to market on their own. This pinnacle of Android phone will be all Google power, optimized for every Google service (surely including Google Voice, now with VOIP???) and will be a thing of beauty and amazement for all to drool over. Forgive my sarcasm and hesitation on this one, I’ve been down this road before.

Way back, in 2007, Google said cell phone should be free, supported by advertising. That got me to thinking, they could actually pull that off. After all, Google is an advertising company. Could they finally be prepping a way to make that happen?

Free phones is nothing new but free service, well that would get some attention. After all, those of us with smartphones know the high price we pay to walk around with the internet in our pockets. Could Google be moving to provide free service in exchange for access to our eyeballs?

How could they monetize it? Ads tacked onto emails sent from the phone, ala hotmail? Ads texted to you periodically? I’d put up with that to save the $70+ I spend monthly for service. With pre-screening surveys, Google could make it extremely targeted and a high value ad buy and we’d all agree to it. OK, not all.

Telecoms would have to push the privacy issue to compete. They’d need to raise the fear in handing over all your data and preferences to Google. Their bread and butter are service charges. Google would provide a major disruption here.

What do you think? Is the Google Phone real this time?

Read: [TechCrunch]

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Xbox Live update includes new features, Facebook and Twitter account access

NEWS — 2009-11-18T17:59:59+00:00

FROM GAMERTELL - Update your Twitter and Facebook accounts along with other cool features with the latest Xbox Live update…
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Vonage makes $3 million settlement with 32 states

Robert Nelson — 2009-11-18T16:56:36+00:00

Section: Communications, VoIP

It has been sometime since we last heard Vonage related news, well aside from the unveiling of Vonage World anyway. This latest bit is not a new product announcement, but may still come as good news for previous customers.

It seems that Vonage has reached a $3 million dollar settlement with 32 states. And this settlement means that previous customers, those that had trouble canceling and were billed after the fact may be eligible for a refund.

The affected states include Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Connecticut, Florida, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Michigan, Missouri, Montana, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin and West Virginia.

But more specifically, the issue at hand deals with certain incentive programs that Vonage customer service reps were offering in an attempt at keeping you as a customer. And according to the Jacksonville Business Journal, those CSR’s were “sometimes too eager to earn their bonuses” and in turn made it “extremely difficult, and sometimes impossible” to cancel your service.

Anyway, if you were one of those affected, or believe you were affected, you may want to pay attention and although your word alone will not guarantee a refund, it was suggested that if “you think you might qualify for a refund, contact your state attorney general’s office.”

Read [Jacksonville Business Journal] Via [Consumerist]

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Gadgetell is looking for bloggers, apply now to join the team

Robert Nelson — 2009-11-18T16:01:01+00:00

Section: Features, Gadgetell Announcements

Normally I would not double post an announcement so quickly, but we are looking for both a weekend and weekday blogger, that said, here is the (re)post of this announcement for anyone that may not read regularly over the weekend.

Listen up, Gadgetell is looking for a few good bloggers, well more specifically we are looking to fill two positions.

The first being someone who can contribute often, and by often I mean on a daily, or at least an almost daily basis to include weekdays and weekends. I would say this person would average roughly 10 posts per week.

The second being someone who wants to write primarily on the weekends. Of course, anyone who fills this role will be welcomed to post during the week. But the main focus is for weekend coverage. This person would most likely average about 4-6 posts per weekend.

Assuming you are good with those roles and posting expectations—we need someone who loves tech. You know the type—the person who loves tech so much that other people get tired of hearing them talk because that is all they talk about.

If interested, here is what you need to do to apply. Send an email to robert (at) gadgetell (dot) com and include;

* For new bloggers, three sample posts that would fit on Gadgetell. Don’t worry they will not be used, but we want to see what you are capable of.
* For experienced bloggers, show us some links to other writing that you have done. These should be relevant to tech and should also be current.

Also tell us a little about you, what you currently do, how much time you can realistically dedicate to Gadgetell and why you think you would be a good fit. And make sure you let us know how to get back in touch with you, just in case we like what you submit.

And, yes these are paid positions.

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Deal of the Day: Buy a PSPgo via Amazon, get $50 PlayStation Network credit

NEWS — 2009-11-18T15:30:45+00:00

FROM GAMERTELL - Amazon is offering a $50 credit to use in its PlayStation Network store after purchasing a PSPgo for $244.99
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Google to officially unveil Chrome OS tomorrow

Robert Nelson — 2009-11-18T14:52:16+00:00

Section: Computers, Software / Applications, Web, Google

We heard the latest Chrome OS rumor last week, and it looks like it will at least be partially true. The news is official and comes courtesy of Google who have stated that they will be offering a “complete overview” of Chrome OS and giving some demos tomorrow November 19, 2009.

That said it also looks like we may also be getting a better idea of when we will be able to download and begin using Chrome OS. But unfortunately the “complete overview” comment is not really exact and a lot could be speculated from something as general as that.

Anyway, you can be sure that we here at Gadgetell will pass on whatever new information becomes available about Chrome OS. I for one am anxious to give it a run through, but it looks like I still have a while for that as it was also noted that it will be launching “next year.”

Read [TechCrunch]

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Most reliable laptops: Asus and Toshiba

JG Mason — 2009-11-18T14:19:10+00:00

Section: Computers, Laptops, Netbooks

SquareTrade set off an ambitious study to compare netbooks and laptops failure rates of their customers. SquareTrade provides warranties on electronics as an aftermarket sale, so when something fails, they should know, right? Their study shows Asus and Toshiba tops the list in reliability but just how reliable are these devices?

The study performed by SquareTrade included laptops with sales over 1,000 units in an attempt to provide statistical significance. Unfortunately, we don’t know if there were 1,001 Asus machines vs 11,000 HP (who scored worst in the study). So there is some wriggle room. Overall, the 3-year malfunction rate for Asus is 15.6% while HP was 25.6%.

The study also shed light on some other interesting questions. What is more reliable: netbooks or laptops? The study’s answer is in the 3-year range, netbooks have a 25.1% malfunction rate while laptops score 20.6% and premium laptops rate 18.1%. In short, the more you spend, the more reliable you gear is.

Overall, 1 in 5 laptops fail in the first three years. The brand info is interesting but take it with a grain of salt.

Study page: [SquareTrade]

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