6:18pm
They’re showing off commercials now – one of Microsoft Windows Phone 7 and one of the Microsoft Store (I’ve yet to check out the store myself.. one of these days maybe). You know, if it wasn’t for the Apple iPhone, I would be all over Windows Phone 7. Then again if Verizon doesn’t come out with the Apple iPhone, I might just decide to switch to a Windows Phone 7 device given my utter hatred for AT&T right now.

Sigh – another delay with the start of the pre-keynote. Wouldn’t it be nice if the pre-keynote actually started on time?

6:38pm
The pre-keynote is finally starting up and leading the way is of course Gary Shapiro. He’s out spewing some facts and numbers about CES. Basically, the economy is starting to come back and many new products will be on display here including over 20,000 new products from 2700 companies. Shapiro is also plugging his new book called “The Comeback”

And now, it’s Ballmer time!

Ballmer starts off by reviewing some of the successes of 2010 for Microsoft and gives a big thanks to all the customers of Microsoft.
The three most important consumer devices – the TV, Windows Phone, and PCs.

TV:
* Ballmer starts off with a review of the Xbox successes in home entertainment including the games, Xbox LIVE and of course KINECT.
* With KINECT for the Xbox 360 the broad world of entertainment opens up to the entire family. With KINECT, you are the controller.
* Xbox 360. Xbox Live, and Kinect made 2010 the biggest year of Xbox history
And now..
Ron Forbes from the Interactive Entertainment Biz comes on stage to show off what you can do with KINECT now and in the future.
* Zune: Watch movies in full 1080p with 5.1 surround sound. It;s available in 20 countries. Use KINECT to control your movie viewing experience within Zune. Ron now shows off controller free access to more than 11 million songs in the Zune catalog
* Netflix: Two years, Xbox was the 1st console to bring Netflix to the living room. This spring, Microsoft will bring KINECT to the Netflix.
* Hulu Plus is coming to Xbox and KINECT later this spring!
* Controller free Zune, Netflix, and Hulu Plus!

Ballmer comes back on stage.. as an avatar.
So why an avatar? Ballmer shows off Avatar KINECT. Avatar KINECT leverages KINECT to track your body movements, facial expressions and movements – with your Xbox LIVE avatar mimicking those movements. Raise your eyebrow and your avatar does it too. Body and facial tracking brought to a whole new level. Avatar KINECT will be coming this Spring for free for all Xbox LIVE Gold members.

* 30 million Xbox LIVE members now.
* Xbox console sales have been #1 for the last 6 months here in the US
* 50 million units of Xbox worldwide
* Microsoft sold over 8 million KINECT sensors worldwide in the first 60 days

Ballmer moves to Xbox LIVE on Windows Phone 7.
* Fable is coming to Windows Phone 7.

A quick video showcasing some of the games coming to Windows Phone 7 this year
* Rise of Glory
Zombies!!
* PAC MAN
* Halo Waypoint
* Fruit Ninja
* Tetris
* Asteroids Deluxe
* Assassins Creed
* Pocket God
* Monopoly
* PES 2011
* The Sims 3
* Need for Speed undercover
* and much much more

Windows Phone 7
* 9 phones across 60 mobile operators in 30 countries
* 5500 apps available for Windows Phone customers
* 100 new apps every day
* More than half of customers download a new app everyday
* More than 20K developers registered
* 9 out of every 10 Windows Phone customers at AT&T would recommend the product to others
* A series of updates will be coming out over the next few months
* Copy and Paste is coming
* Optimizations for loading and switching apps
* Sprint and Verizon network phones coming in 1st half 2011
Liz Sloan from the Windows Phone Team comes on stage
* Liz will show 7 great things about Windows Phone 7 (there’s really nothing different here)
* Camera: Pocket to picture in seconds. Every Windows Phone 7 has a dedicated camera button. Button works even when the screen is locked.
* Glance and Go: Lock screen shows all the important information you need while you’re on the go. Start screen also shows all this information. As you all know, the start screen is composed of Live Tiles.
* Voice Search: Voice recognition used to perform search queries.
* Bing to the phone: (if this matter to any of you).
* Hubs: The stuff you care about in one place
* (Shoot.. forgot what the 6th item is.. but I think it was apps..)
* Xbox LIVE on the phone

Ballmer comes back on stage to talk about one last thing – Windows PC.
* Windows 7 PCs are the fastest selling PCs in history.
* 7 copies are sold every second
* Internet Explorer 9 beta in the hands of 20 million users
* Windows Live has 5000 million users
* More new innovative hardware PC designs this year than ever before

Mike Angiulo from the Windows Team comes on stage to show off some of the new Windows PCs
Mike shows off some of the latest new PCs including systems showcasing Intel and AMD’s latest processors.

A brand new version of Microsoft Surface. Microsoft worked with Samsung.
* It’s only four inches thin.
* Biggest piece of gorilla glass bonded to an LCD ever
* Pixel sense – new technology which uses infrared sensors all across the screen. Vision based interaction

* Surface can now be used as a kiosk – it’s no longer just a table
* New lower price – surface pc should be available in many more places

To wrap things up, Microsoft demo’d the next major version of Windows which will add support for System on a Chip (SoC) systems – both x86 and ARM.

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-Felix and the Krunker Team

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10:01: Steve Jobs comes out on stage and introduces Woz (is he trying to make amends??

• Steve is going over the retail stores – showing off the new Paris store (Hey – visit Paris and visit the Apple store right? Why not?)
• Now talking about the recent opening of the 2nd store in China over in Shanghai. 40 foot high glass cylinder.
• Third big store which opened recently was in London (2nd large store in London). Right in the heart of Covent Garden. This was Apple’s 300th store. Apple is now in 10 countries and will soon open up in Spain which would make it the 11th country.
• 1 million visitors some days to Apple stores. 50 percent of visitors are buying their first Mac

10:05: Steve shifts to iOS:

• 120 million iOS devices shipped in total
• Activating 230K iOS devices per day. (These are new activations – NOT upgrades)
• 6.5 billion downloads from the App store so far. 200 apps every second.
• 250,000 apps now in the App store. 25K of the 250K apps are now iPad apps

10:08: Apple introducing iOS 4.1

• Lots of bugs being fixed.
• High Dynamic Range (HDR) photos comes to iOS 4.1
• HD video upload over Wi-Fi
• TV show rentals
• Game Center debuting to end-users

Jobs now goes over some of the new features:

High Dynamic Range (HD) photos:

• Take a picture and the OS will take three pictures – one normal exposure, one under-exposed and one over-exposed. Taken together, the OS will enhance the shot taken to extract details and colors you wouldn’t otherwise see.  You’ll see the normal photo and the HDR enhanced photo.

Game Center:

• It’s an API and an App
• It’s all about multiplayer games. Allows you to challenge your friends in games. Should you not have any friends, it will match you with others online.
• Comes with achievements and leaderboards
• Steve introduces Epic’s upcoming new game, code-named project “sword” – a role playing adventure. (This looks like one sweet game folks – wish I had a snapshot to show you). Game Center provides all the social interaction allowing game developers to focus on gaming and content. (oh this game is powered by Unreal tech). Will be available on iPod touch, iPhone and iPad this holiday season.

iOS 4.1 coming out next week – will be a free download via iTunes.

10:16 am: Steve now talking about iOS 4.2 coming out later on. This releasei s all about the iPad

• All the things you’ve come to expect in iOS 4 will be coming to the iPad
• Adding wireless printing (YAY!)
• Stream audio, video, and photos over Wi-Fi

Steve is now demoing iOS 4.2. Shows off multitasking (Pandora in the background and checking email at the same time – oh and then browsing the web); Shows off folders support (same drag and drop feature for apps into folders);

iOS 4.2 is coming out in November – free update for all iOS devices.

10:20am: Steve moves to the entree today – all about iPods.

• 275 million iPods have been sold so far

ALL NEW IPODS for every single model of iPod being announced today.

iPod Shuffle:

• Smaller than 2nd generation and comes with buttons and playlist support
• Comes with clip making it instantly wearable
• Genius mixes support coming to shuffle
• VoiceOver support
• 15 hours of music
• 5 colors
• Sells for $49 dollars

iPod nano:

• Smaller than ever (it’s practically square folks)
• No  more click-wheel
• Adding multi-touch display to iPod nano
• Comes with clip
• 46 percent smaller and 42 percent lighter
• Volume buttons
• VoiceOver
• FM radio
• Nike+ support (nice!)
• 29 languages
• 24 hour battery life
• Genius support
• You can move icons around just like you would on the iPod touch/iPhone
• Rotate the screen using your fingers (guess there’s no accelerometer)
• (Whoops. Steve called the nano the iPod touch)
• Comes in 6 colors total (4 + two new colors)
• Sells for $149 dollars for 8GB; $179 for 16GB

iPod touch:

• This is now the most popular iPod
• Steve claims the iPod touch is now the #1 portable game player in the world. iPod touch outsells Nintendo and Sony portable game players combined. Has 50+ percent of the market share
• 1.5 billion game and entertainment downloads just to iPod touch alone
• New iPod touch introduced. Thinner than ever. Basically the same look as the iPod touch (though slightly slanted at the edges)
• Comes with retina display – same as the one on the iPhone
• A4 chip
• 3 axis gyro
• iOS 4.1 + Game Center
• Front Facing Camera
• Rear Camera with HD recording
• 40 hours of music playback
• FaceTime support
• 8GB for $229
• 32GB for $299
• 64GB for $399

All new iPods available starting next week with preorders available now.

10:36am: Steve now showing off some new ads.

Wait.. was that a Beatles picture I see?

10:38am: Steve moving onto iTunes..

• 11.7 billion songs downloaded from iTunes
• 450 million TV episodes have been downloaded
• 100 million movies downloaded
• 35 million books downloaded
• 160 million accounts with credit cards and one-click shopping in 23 countries

Steve announces iTunes 10.

• New logo for iTunes 10 – they’re ditching the CD
• New hybrid view showing off album art if you have more than 5 songs for an album

Announces “Ping” in iTunes 10. It’s a social network for music. Facebook and Twitter meets iTunes.

• Follow your favorite artists and friends
• Discover the music they’re talking about and downloading
• Follow your friends and artists posts, photos, comments; see charts of music that your friends are downloading.
• See your favorite artists posts, music, and upcoming concerts
• Social music discovery
• Follow and be followed
• You can allow anyone to follow you OR you can control who can follow you (basically an approval mechanism). Be as public or private as you want.
• Over 17,000 concert listings
• 160 million iTunes users in 23 countries

Ping is also available on the iPhone and iPod touch. Ping will be in the iTunes App Store.

iTunes 10 is available today

But wait..

one more thing.

“One more hobby” to announce.. (of course it’s about Apple TV)

Steve acknowledges Apple TV has never been a huge hit.

People want:

• Hollywood movies and TV shows whenever they want them. They don’t want “amateur hour”
• everything in HD. HD won.
• Lower prices for content
• Don’t want a computer on their TV.
• Don’t want to manage storage
• Don’t want to sync to a computer (AMEN to that!)
• Want hardware to be silent, cool and small

10:53am: Steve introduces the new 2nd generation Apple tV – one quarter the size folks!

• Matte black color
• HDMI, USB, optical audio, Ethernet ports
• 802.11n Wi-Fi
• All new rental model. You rent everything. There’s nothing to store on the Apple TV
• Stream content from your computer if you want to – no syncing required.
• Movies, TV shows and music
• All HD when available
• No storage management
• Stunning photo slideshows
• Silent, cool and tiny
• $4.99 first run HD movies to rent
• 0.99 cent HD TV shows to rent
• Streaming Netflix support
• Rotten tomatoes ratings now in the UI

Time for a demo. Steve is renting Iron Man 2 (which isn’t coming out till the end of the month)

Some details on renting – you have 30 days to watch it and once you’ve started watching the show, you have 48 hours to finish it.

Showing off Netflix now. This is one beautiful user interface – arguably one of the best (if not the best) UI for Netflix yet.

Now talking about AirPlay. You can stream content from an Apple device to another Apple device – such as iPad to Apple TV. Watch a movie on your iPad then push it to your TV to finish it up.

Apple TV price lowered to $99 dollars.

Available in 4 weeks – pre-order today.

New iPods, new Apple TV, new iTunes, new iOS…

Chris Martin from Coldplay is now performing. Nice.

Technorati Tags: Apple, iPod touch, iPod shuffle, iPod nano, Apple tV

Sony also announced two other ? series digital cameras today – the SLT-A55V (above) and SLT-A33 (below) – both of which feature Sony’s newly developed “Translucent Mirror Technology” which achieves the “highest level of auto focus speed for both still image and movie shooting.”

Both cameras feature a translucent mirror which enables light passing through the lens to be simultaneously received by the image sensor and the auto focus sensors resulting in speeds previously unattainable using traditional DSLR technology. Cameras with this technology can continuously and quickly focus while shooting stills and recording videos even in full HD. The A55 can shoot up to 10 frames per second on the A55 while the A33 can shoot up to 7 frames per second.

Other key features and specs for both cameras include:

• Continuous Advance Priority AE mode
• 15 point AF system
• Continuous phase detect AF – even when shooting video
• 16.2 megapixel resolution for the A55 and 14.2 megapixel resolution for the A33
• Exmor APS HD CMOS Sensor
• Full-time Live View
• 3 inch LCD with TruBlack technology
• BIONZ high-speed image processing engine
• Ultra-high ISO sensitivity (ISO 100 to ISO 12,800)
• Auto HDR support
• 3D Sweep Panorama technology – creates two images from a single frame
• A55 comes with built-in GPS
• Memory Stick PRO Duo and SD card support

The A55 will cost around $750 and is expected in October while the A33 will cost around $650 and is expected in Sept.

For more information, check out the below press release:

DSLR REDEFINED: SONY INTRODUCES NEW CAMERAS POWERED BY WORLD’S FIRST TRANSLUCENT MIRROR TECHNOLOGY ENABLING SIMULTANEOUS AUTO FOCUS AND CAPTURE IN AN INTERCHANGEABLE LENS DIGITAL CAMERA

New Models Offer Continuous Phase Detect AF During 10 fps High-Speed Shooting and Full HD Movie Shooting

SAN DIEGO, August 23, 2010 –Sony today introduced two new ? cameras (models SLT-A55V and SLT-A33) that adopt Sony’s newly-developed Translucent Mirror Technology™, which achieves the highest-level of auto focus speed for both still image and movie shooting.

Translucent Mirror Technology™ provides performance previously unattainable with traditional DSLR technology. Using the new technology, the?55 and?33 models can continuously and quickly focus (with TTL phase-detection) while shooting stills and recording video—even in full HD, allowing desired moments to be captured in tack sharp focus, high-definition video. They can shoot continuously at up to 10 frames per second on the?55 (and up to seven on the?33), achieving shooting speeds that are the fastest in the industry for an APS-C size sensor-equipped interchangeable lens cameras under $1000.

“This is the most innovative Interchangeable Lens Digital Camera that Sony has ever created,” said Kristen Elder, director of the digital imaging business group. “Our Translucent Mirror Technology is one of the most significant SLR structural changes in more than a decade.”

By displaying the images received by the Exmor™ APS HD CMOS Sensor, picture quality of the camera’s live view image has enhanced drastically. Coupled with the quick and accurate phase detect AF and 100 percent coverage Tru-Finder™ electronic viewfinder, the Quick AF Live View feature has been further advanced.

Translucent Mirror Technology

Both cameras are equipped with a translucent mirror, which enables light passing through the lens to be simultaneously received by the image sensor and the auto focus sensor, allowing continuous shooting and continuous focusing at speeds never before possible. The ?55 offers the world’s fastest 10 fps high-speed burst shooting with continuous AF (TTL phase-detection) in an interchangeable-lens digital camera with APS-C sensor.

Because of its structure, the Translucent Mirror Technology™ does away with the motion of raising and lowering the mirror. The absence of the moving mirror mechanism contributes to making the whole body size significantly compact compared to traditional DSLR cameras.

By eliminating the need to raise and lower the mirror between shots, the technology makes it possible to achieve focusing while images are captured. Existing systems can only focus in the interval between image capture, limiting the ability to track fast moving subjects. The cameras also have continuous Advance Priority AE Mode and will automatically adjust for the best exposure to help you get the most professional looking results.

High-Speed Capture with Auto Focus

Additionally, a newly developed 15-point AF system assures ultra-fast, high precision focusing. The high-speed shooting with continuous Phase Detect AF tracks rapidly moving subjects accurately. You can capture the decisive moments that you might have otherwise missed.

Creative Video Capture

The continuous phase detect AF also works in movie shooting for the first time in the world. The Translucent Mirror Technology™ also allows the ?55 and ?33 to be the first cameras to ever maintain continuous phase detection AF while recording Full HD AVCHD video. With fast, precise phase detection AF continually tracking subject movement, even fast action and subjects that move quickly towards or away from the camera are easy to keep in focus.

With a large 16.2 megapixel (for the ?55) and 14.2 megapixel (for the ?33) Exmor™ APS HD CMOS sensor, background defocusing effects can be easily captured. The APS-C sensor size is nearly 20 times larger than a traditional compact camcorders’ 1/2.88 type image sensor, providing more creative control.

Compatible with all A-mount lenses, video and photography enthusiasts alike can choose from macro to telephoto lenses to achieve their desired artistic effect.

Full-time Live View

Full-time Live View offers unprecedented freestyle shooting versatility with fast, precise AF using either the viewfinder or LCD monitor. The ?55 and ?33 have a fully articulated 3-inch 921,600 Xtra Fine LCD with TruBlack™ technology with 100 percent coverage.

The Tru-Finder eye-level viewfinder provides an unprecedented combination of 100 percent coverage and 1.1x magnification for easy and natural framing. By combining Translucent Mirror and Tru-Finder technologies, ?33 and ?55 are the first interchangeable lens digital cameras to offer movie recording with the familiar eye-level shooting style – a significant advantage in fast moving and extreme lighting conditions (bright sunlight and low-light situations).

The variable angle tilt LCD is adjustable to accommodate shooting from low or high angles. The electronic view finder has a high-resolution effective 1.15 million dots conversion Xtra Fine LCD™ display, is bright and easy to see even in low light, has a selectable shooting parameter display and shows the effects of exposure and white balance adjustments.

Advanced Shooting Features

With an Exmor™ APS HD CMOS sensor, BIONZ® high-speed image processing engine and ultra-high ISO sensitivity (ISO 100-12,800), the ?55 and ?33 cameras offer advanced shooting features. These make it easy to get the best shot, even in difficult lighting conditions.

Auto HDR shoots and combines three frames into a single high dynamic range (HDR) photo with rich shadow and highlight detail. Multi frame NR shoots and combines six frames into a single photo, enabling smooth low-light imaging at half the noise level. Hand-held Twilight shoots and combines six frames into a single photo, suppressing blur to enable clear night-scene imaging without a tripod or flash.

3D Sweep Panorama™ technology creates two images from a single frame, enabling panoramic photos to be viewed in 3D on compatible 3D systems and other devices that support 3D technology. Using the ?55 model, built-in GPS capability enables global positioning coordinates to be recorded along with the date and time. HDMI™ connectivity enables stunningly beautiful PhotoTV HD display of images on compatible Sony BRAVIA® TVs.

AUTO+ (Advanced Auto) mode offers the same benefits as Auto mode and more, resulting in cleaner, more dynamic pictures and fewer missed shots. The camera automatically recognizes the correct scene mode, then quickly shoots and combines up to six shots to produce images with greater clarity, optimum dynamic range using Auto HDR technology and lower image noise using 6 shots layering technology.

Accessories

The new cameras accept both Memory Stick PRO Duo™ (including Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo™) and SD (including both SDHC and SDXC formats) media (all sold separately). With a 30MB per second transfer rate, Sony’s Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo HX offers the best performance of all memory cards whether in continuous shooting mode or transferring data to other media.

A new dedicated microphone (models ECM-ALST1 and ECM-CG50) will also be available.

Pricing and Availability

The ?55 and ?33 cameras will cost about $750 and $650 (respectively) for the body only and about $850 and $750 (respectively) for the body and 18-55mm zoom lens. The?33 camera will be available in September and the?55 model will be available in October at Sony Style® retail stores www.Sonystyle.com/retail) and at authorized dealers nationwide.

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: Sony, Sony SLT-A55V, Sony SLT-A33, Digital SLR, Translucent Mirror Technology

Sony announced several ? (alpha) digital cameras today including the new SLR-a560 DSLR. Features and specs of the SLR-a560 include:

• 14.2 megapixel resolution
• Latest Sony Exmore APS HD CMOS sensor with low-noise processing for high quality pictures
• BIONZ image processor with color-noise reduction
• Multi-Frame Noise Reduction stacks a high-speed burst rate of six frames creating a single low-noise exposure that boosts effective sensitivity to as high as ISO 25600
• Sweep Panorama mode – capture up to 180 degree horizontal or 126 degree vertical shots
• 3D Sweep Panorama mode – shoot 3D panoramic still images with a single lens. Files can be enjoyed on compatible 3D displays
• Full HD 1920 x 1080 60i video capture
• Quick AF Live View with two sensors that maintain the same focusing speed as with the optical viewfinder
• Two Live View functions
• 3 inch LCD display which tilts 90 degrees up or down
• 7 frames per second shooting spped
• Built-in HDMI port
• Built-in stereo microphone
• In-camera High Dynamic Range (HDR) enhanced by incorporating highlights, midtones, and shadows
• Supports Memory Stick PRO Duo, SD (SDHC/SDXC)

The ?560 with the body and a 18-55mm kit lens will be available in October for approximately $750 dollars. The body itself costs $650 dollars. For more information on the DSLR and several new lens introduced today, check out Sony’s press release below.

SHOOTING FOR THE STARS: SONY BREAKS NEW GROUND AGAIN IN DSLR SPACE WITH NEW CAMERA, LENSES

Latest ? (alpha) Offers Full HD Movie Capture, 3D Sweep Panorama and More

SAN DIEGO, Aug. 23, 2010 – Sony today introduced an ? (alpha) DSLR camera (model SLR-a560) that leverages Sony’s Exmor ™ APS HD CMOS sensor to make it easier for active shooters to get the best shot without missing a moment. Along with the a33 and a55 cameras (also announced today), the ?560 model is one of the only DSLR cameras with Multi-frame Noise Reduction, Sweep Panorama™ mode, 3D Sweep Panorama and Full HD 1920×1080 60i video capture.

This 14.2 megapixel ?560 camera offers the same features of its predecessor, the innovative ?550, which introduced Quick AF Live View, 7fps continuous shooting and Auto HDR to the step-up DSLR class.

Additionally, Sony is adding to its already strong line-up of more than 30 A-mount lenses with new models made for seasoned photographers and those new to the DSLR space. Today, Sony expands its A-Mount lens line-up for ? DSLR cameras with three new lenses—a Carl Zeiss® Distagon T* 24mm F2 ZA SSM (model SAL24F20Z), a DT 35mm F1.8 SAM (model SAL35F18) and an 85mm F2.8 SAM (model SAL85F28).

“These new lenses and camera show our commitment to the DSLR market and that we will never stop innovating.” said Kristen Elder, director of the Digital Imaging business at Sony Electronics. “These products complement our overall Sony® Alpha™ lineup, which we are significantly expanding today. The camera offers a choice to those consumers who want to gain the benefits of professional level shooting speed as well as be able to capture video with in a traditional style DSLR.”

The ?560 camera provides excellent picture quality, particularly in low-light scenarios. A new generation of Sony Exmor ™APS HD CMOS sensor employs low-noise processing for high-quality pictures. The BIONZ ® image processor has color-noise reduction that helps achieve low noise up to ISO 12800, without sacrificing fine detail. Multi-frame Noise Reduction stacks a high-speed burst of six frames, creating a single low-noise exposure that boosts effective sensitivity as high as ISO 25600.

Quick AF Live View

With Quick AF Live View, the ?560 camera can focus just as quickly in Live View as when shooting through the eye-level viewfinder, which is unlike any other DSLR in its class.

Because composing shots on the LCD monitor is becoming increasingly important to DSLR users, Sony has equipped this camera with two Live View functions and a 3-inch (measured diagonally) LCD screen that tilts 90 degrees up or down. The ?560 has a high resolution 921,600 pixel Xtra Fine LCD™ display.

Sony’s Quick AF Live View uses two sensors to maintain the same focusing speed as with the optical viewfinder. While the speed of Quick AF Live View is ideal for every day shooting, Focus Check Live View enables critical framing and magnification for setting precise focus in macro and tripod shooting.

Focus Check Live View mode simplifies critical assessment of the finest image details. A real-time ‘feed’ from the main sensor can be viewed on the LCD monitor, with switchable magnification allowing close-up confirmation of delicate manual focus adjustments. Contrast AF method is selectable in focus check Live View mode.

Temporary 7x and 14x zoom views enable you to focus on extremely fine detail while the 1x view shows 100 percent framing in the LCD.

Fast Shooting Speeds

With its unique sensor-processor combination, the ?560 camera is a leader in its class with up to seven frames per second shooting speed for under $1,000. Using the optical viewfinder, you can shoot up to three frames with Quick AF Live View, which helps you capture the decisive moment when shooting fast moving subjects like in sports.

HD Movie Recording

The ?560 ? camera offers the extra convenience of high-definition video recording. This model also captures Full HD (1920 x 1080i) video in high-quality AVCHD™ files that can be easily enjoyed on a compatible HD television via the cameras built-in HDMI™ terminal (cable not included). The camera includes built-in stereo microphones for high-quality audio recording.

With multi-shot technology, the ?560 camera’s high-speed sensor and processor rapidly captures and assembles many frames to realize unmatched low-noise, extended dynamic range, wide panoramas and 3D images.

The ?560 offers versatile creative control even when shooting movies. Creativity is also enhanced by the ability to apply white balance and Creative Style settings, as well as Aperture Priority (A) mode aperture settings, to movies. What’s more, exposure compensation can be adjusted even while movie shooting is in progress.

Sweep Panorama Technology

Featuring Sweep Panorama technology, the ?560 model captures breathtaking shots up to 180 degree horizontal or 126-degree vertical shots (18 mm focal length).

With 3D Sweep Panorama mode, the camera can shoot 3D panoramic still images with a single lens. The high-speed burst of frames is stitched together using innovative processing techniques to automatically create detail-packed 3D panoramas. These files can be enjoyed in stunning 3D on compatible 3D televisions (other accessories are required).

In-Camera High Dynamic Range

In-camera High Dynamic Range (HDR) has been further enhanced incorporating three shots. It can capture highlights, midtones and shadows. Unlike HDR features in other DSLR cameras, Sony’s unique positional interpolation technology can overcome slight changes in camera position and align individual shots so that a tripod is not required.

The feature handles severe backlighting and other high-contrast scenes like looking out a window into bright daylight. The in-camera auto HDR technology combines the highlight, midtone and shadow detail of three separate captures into one remarkably natural looking image. The ?560 offers a maximum Auto HDR range of 6EV.

Multi Frame NR is a new function where, when the shutter is released, the camera automatically takes 6 frames at the currently selected shutter speed, aperture, and ISO setting, and then combines them into a single JPEG image with a reduction in noise at the selected aperture and shutter speed that is equivalent to approximately two ISO steps. In addition, ISO expansion achieves class-leading, ultra-high sensitivity equivalent to ISO25600, while accurate subject detection assures high-precision alignment of the 6 frames during compositing.

Accessories

The new camera accepts both Memory Stick PRO Duo™ (including Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo™) and SD (including both SDHC and SDXC formats) media (all sold separately). With a 30MB per second transfer rate, Sony’s Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo HX offers the best performance of all memory cards whether in continuous shooting mode or transferring data to other media.

Lenses for Active Shooters

Made for experienced and budding photographers alike, the Carl Zeiss Distagon T* 24mm F2 ZA SSM (model SAL24F20Z) functions as a wide-angle 24mm lens on full-frame cameras with 36mm (35mm equivalent) lens sensors, or as a 36mm equivalent lens ideal for general use on cameras with APS-C sensors. Jointly developed with Carl Zeiss, it features the highly-regarded Carl Zeiss Distagon designed for wide-angle lenses.

This lens is distinguished by its fast response focus and extremely quiet, very smooth operation thanks to its built-in SSM (Super Sonic wave Motor).

It offers a wide and therefore highly versatile focal range from 0.19m to infinity, and features a nine-blade circular aperture that along with the large F2 maximum aperture contributes to smooth, natural bokeh effects.

In keeping with traditional Carl Zeiss design, the all-metal lens barrel has been finished to a very high standard resulting in a visibly high-quality appearance.

Offering photographers at all levels great value and performance in a compact and lightweight design, the new DT 35mm F1.8 SAM (SAL35F18) weighs just 6 ounces. It can be added to a lens kit system and carried without noticeably increasing the weight of the bag.

With an approximately 50mm (35mm equivalent) focal length on an APS-C sensor, this lens is ideal for snapshots and portraits under a wide range of shooting conditions. The high-speed F1.8 maximum aperture is particularly advantageous for hand held shooting in low light.

At just 0.8 feet, the DT 35mm F1.8 SAM (SAL35F18) has the shortest minimum focus in its class, making it an excellent choice for dramatic close-ups too. Whatever the shot, the internal Smooth Autofocus Motor (SAM) drives the focusing group directly and ensures responsive and fluid autofocus operation.

The new 85mm F2.8 SAM (SAL85F28) lens is a full-frame lens in that offers performance and affordability. The 85mm focal length is a standard for portraiture because of the natural perspective that it provides. On an APS-C sensor camera the 85mm F2.8 SAM functions as a 127.5mm (35mm equivalent) telephoto lens – and features a Sonnar-type optical design that is considered ideal for mid-range telephoto lenses.

The lens is sharp center to corner, and features smooth defocusing thanks to its large F2.8 maximum aperture and circular aperture design. At two feet, the minimum focusing distance is the shortest in its class, and SAM motor technology ensures smooth autofocus operation.

The quality optical and mechanical features of the lens mean it is suitable for serious photography and should more than satisfy intermediate and advanced users alike.

Pricing and Availability

The ?560 model with the camera body and 18-55mm kit lens will cost about $750 and will be available in October. With the body only, it will cost about $650. The Carl Zeiss Distagon T* 24mm F2 SSM (model SAL24F20Z), DT 35mm F1.8 SAM (model SAL35F18) and 85mm F2.8 SAM (model SAL85F28) lenses will be available in October for about $1,250, $200, $250 respectively.

The cameras, lens and a range of accessories will be available at Sony Style® retail stores (www.sonystyle.com/retail) and at authorized dealers nationwide.

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: Sony SLR-a560, Digital SLR

I was wondering why Kodak portable video camcorders were being reduced in price over at Best Buy – and now I know. Kodak announced the new Kodak PLAYTOUCH Video Camera yesterday complete with a 3 inch capacitive touch-screen display and the ability to capture full 1080p HD video.

The touch-screen display allows users to easily navigate through HD videos with the swipe of a fingertip. Kodak even provides on-camera editing capabilities with the PLAYTOUCH – allowing you to trim/edit videos and extract still images from captured video clips.

Other key features of the new PLAYTOUCH include:

• Full 1080p HD at 30 fps
• 720p HD at 60 fps
• 720p HD at 30 fps
• WVGA at 30 fps
• Built-in image stabilization
• LCD glare shield
• External microphone jack
• Built-in USB arm
• Kodak Share button – allowing for easy video uploads to YouTube and Facebook, as well as email
• 5 megapixel HD still images
• Smart face tracking technology
• 4 capture effects including B&W, sepia, high saturation, and 70s film look
• HDMI output (even includes an HDMI cable)
• Up to 10 hours of HD video with SD/SDHC card slot (supports up to 32GB)
• Li-Ion rechargeable battery with in-camera charging

About the only feature missing is water-proofing.

The Kodak PLAYTOUCH Video Camera will be available this fall in Smoke Gaze (Black), Chrome, Wine Country (Magenta), Cabana (Orange), and Spa Blue (Teal) for $229.95.

Technorati Tags: Kodak, Kodak PLAYTOUCH Video Camera, Portable Video Camcorder

Kodak announced a larger 10 inch version of their popular PULSE digital frame yesterday to be available this fall at a suggested price of $199.95. The 10 inch PULSE features everything available in the current 7 inch including Wi-Fi connectivity, customizable email address, and the ability to connect to Facebook and Kodak Gallery photo albums. You can pre-order the 10 inch PULSE over at the Kodak Store with delivery expected around the beginning of October.

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: Kodak, Kodak PULSE Digital Frame, Digital Photo Frame

Kodak announces today the new EASYSHARE M590 digital camera which the company claims is the “world’s thinnest 5x optical zoom digital camera.” Featuring a dedicated share button, the M590 makes it a snap to tag and share photos and videos captured on the camera to social networking websites such as Facebook, Flickr, YouTube, and Kodak Gallery as well as email.

Key features of the EASYSHARE M590 include:

• 14 megapixel resolution
• SCHNEIDER-KREUZNACH VARIOGON lens
• Built-in image stabilization
• Facial Recognition technology
• Smart Capture feature

• Intelligent scene detection – automatically analyzes the scene
• Intelligent capture control – automatically sets camera settings
• Intelligent image processing – reduces noise and clears up dark shadows

The Kodak EASYSHARE M590 is available now in silver, red, purple, and blue for a suggested retail price of $199.95.

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: Kodak, Kodak EASYSHARE M590

Epson PowerLite 1220:

• XGA resolution
• USB Plug ‘n Play setup
• Additional USB port for direct connection of a USB memory device for PC-free slideshow capabilities
• Automatic keystone correction
• 1.2x optical zoom
• Direct Power On/Off – allows an installed projector to be powered on and off with a flip of a wall switch
• A/V Mute Slide instantly turns off the sound and images
• 3LCD 3 chip technology
• E-TORL lamp technology
• MSRP of $649

Epson PowerLite 1260:

• Widescreen WXGA resolution (16:10 aspect ratio)
• HDMI port
• USB Plug ‘n Play setup
• Additional USB port for direct connection of a USB memory device for PC-free slideshow capabilities
• Automatic keystone correction
• 1.2x optical zoom
• Direct Power On/Off – allows an installed projector to be powered on and off with a flip of a wall switch
• A/V Mute Slide instantly turns off the sound and images
• 3LCD 3 chip technology
• E-TORL lamp technology
• MSRP of $749

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: Epson PowerLite 1220, Epson PowerLite 1260

Above is the new Verizon Wireless Salute – the first handset from ZTE USA to be available on Verizon Wireless. The Salute is a slim slider phone featuring:

• 2.4 inch display
• Built-in 1.3 megapixel camera
• Speakerphone and Bluetooth headset support
• Mobile Web capable
• Text/Picture/Voice messaging
• Mobile email/Mobile web email, and chat capable
• Media Center provides access to downloadable games, ringtones, wallpapers, location-based services etc
• Social Beat app for accessing social networking sites like Facebook, Twitter, and MySpace
• Backup Assistant app saves and updates a copy of the phone’s address book to a secure website
• VZ Navigator support
• Bing Search
• English/Spanish interface
• Micro USB 2.0
• 240 minute talk time and 220 hour standby time

The Verizon Wireless Salute is available now for a price of $19.99 after a $50 dollar mail-in rebate and a new two-year agreement.

Technorati Tags: Verizon Wireless Salute

The Nikon D3100 digital SLR is the company’s latest entry into the enthusiast DSLR market place featuring a 14.2 megapixel resolution, easy-to-use operations, full HD video recording, and a simple graphics interface.

Ideal for those of you just getting into photography, the Nikon D3100 comes with a Guide Mode featuring an easy-to-use interface which guides through shots via an on-demand, step-by-step assistance. The Guide Mode is easily accessed through the Mode Dial on the top of the camera and features sample assist images that change with the camera settings. Nikon claims users can achieve “professional looking photographs” by simply following the guidance displayed on the 3 inch LCD display.

Key features of the D3100 include:

• EXPEED 2 image processing engine
• 14.2 megapixel DX format CMOS sensor
• 11 point AF system
• ISO 100-3200 (expandable to 12,800)
• Full HD 1080p (1920 x 1080) resolution video capture at 24p
• 720p video capture at 24 or 30 fps
• First DSLR to feature full time AF for D-Movie video shooting and while in Live Mode
• Face Detection technology locks focus on up to 35 human faces
• Movies are recorded in H.264 AVCHD codec
• Edit recorded videos from within the camera
• Built-in HDMI port
• Active D-Lighting automatically fixes dark or backlit images
• 420 pixel RGB color 3D Matrix Meter
• 6 Automatic Exposure Scene Modes – Portrait, Landscape, Child, Sports, Close-up or Night Portrait
• Picture Control – choose from Standard, Neutral, Vivid, Monochrome, Portrait, or Landscape
• Built-in pop-up flash
• Auto Scene Selector feature in Live View
• Quiet Shutter Release mode which substantially reduces the sound of the mirror while shooting
• Apply effects using in-camera Retouch Menu
• Integrated Dust Reduction System
• 3 inch monitor with one-touch Live View shooting and movie capture

The D3100 will be available beginning in the middle of September for an estimated price of $699.95.

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: Nikon D3100 Digital SLR, Nikon D3100

Above is the new SANYO Full HD Pocket-Size Dual Camera, model VPC-PD2BK, featuring full HD video recording, 10 megapixel photo shooting, and 3x optical zoom all in a form factor the size of a deck of cards. The camera also comes with embedded software for easy use and sharing on social networking websites.

Key features of the VPC-PD2BK include:

• Shoot full HD videos at 30 frames per second
• Capture 10 megapixel stills
• 37 mm wide-angle lens
• Mini-HDMI port
• High-Speed Sequential Shooting Mode
• Two microphones on the sides of the camera for recording stereo sound
• Built-in USB connector
• Rechargeable lithium-ion battery
• Support for SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards
• Measures 2.48 x 0.87 x 4.36 inches and weighs 3.7 oz

The VPC-PD2BK will be available in September for a suggested price of $169.99.

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: SANYO Full HD Pocket-Size Dual Camera VPC-PD2BK, SANYO VPC-PD2BK

We’re officially lusting after Salamander Design’s new lineup of Home Theater Seats. The company announced yesterday they were adding a layer of memory foam to the cushion and backs to all of its premium home theater seats making it even more comfortable than ever before. Lineups featuring the new memory foam include the Alex, Talia, and Matteo lines.

== Press Release ==

MEDIA CONTACT: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
J. B. Stanton Communications
860/542-1234 Voice  •  860/542-0005 Fax
Bryan Stanton / jbs@jbstanton.com
www.JBStantonPressRoom.com

Booth 3546 at CEDIA EXPO

Salamander Adds Memory Foam for Extra

Comfort to All Premium Home Theater Seating

Memory Foam Increases the Customer Comfort of Company’s Entire Collection

CEDIA EXPO, ATLANTA, Aug. 19, 2010 — Salamander Designs, Ltd., a leading designer and manufacturer of modern furniture, seating and mounting products for Home Theater and audio/video entertainment systems, is increasing both the customer comfort and environmental responsibility of its premium Home Theater seating collection.

Salamander Designs is adding a layer of memory foam to the cushions and backs of all its theater seats. This will make all the seats more comfortable. Eco-friendly, soybean-based foam will continue to be used as the core for all seating. This soy foam reduces the amount of petroleum used in polyurethane foam (a core material in cushions). The new combination of foams is more comfortable, more durable and more eco-friendly than the combination of materials used previously.

Talia Home Theater Seat cutaway shows yellow layer of dense, comfort-enhancing memory foam added by Salamander to all its premium seating.

The memory foam, similar to that used in Tempur-pedic® mattresses, is much denser than conventional foam, with an open-cell structure that provides better support. As a seated person shifts his or her weight, the foam constantly and subtly readjusts itself to provide continuous support.

The new combination of materials further demonstrates Salamander Designs’ dedication to its philosophy of continuous innovation and Environmentally Friendly Operations. “We are committed to making business decisions that are globally responsible and environmentally friendly,” said company president Salvatore Carrabba. “As alternatives present themselves, we make every effort to take advantage of Green opportunities in all aspects of our business.”

Salamander Designs is applying the memory foams to its entire collection of premium Home Theater seating, including the Alex, Talia and Matteo lines. All the seats are hand-made in the USA by dedicated artisans. The company pays attention to every detail to ensure maximum reliability, durability and comfort. The three basic styles come in 27 high-fashion colors and four cover materials, including leathers that use an eco-friendly tanning process. Consumers can still customize their seating selections as simply as before, while enjoying the satisfaction of defining a solution, that is uniquely their own. The Salamander process allows customized seating to be shipped quickly, thus eliminating the usual penalty of a long wait for customization.

Salamander Designs can be seen at the CEDIA Show, Booth 3546, Georgia World Congress Center.

About Salamander Designs

Salamander Designs, Ltd. is a leading manufacturer and marketer of furniture for the Consumer Electronics and Audio/Visual markets. Its versatile, advanced product lines feature a high level of configurability and customization that allow consumers to define specific product configurations to meet their needs. Salamander’s Chameleon Collection offers 9 different styles in each of 18 different configurations. The Synergy System is completely modular and allows for a virtually limitless number of product configurations. These, plus the Archetype System accommodate virtually any design preference and A/V requirement. Salamander’s handsome Home Theater Seating can be similarly customized with a variety of materials, styling options and accessories, and its flat-panel display mounting systems make it easier than ever to integrate with A/V furniture or independently mount onto a wall or ceiling. Salamander Designs is based at 811 Blue Hills Avenue, Bloomfield CT 06002.

For further press information, visit www.JBStantonPressRoom.com.

For further technical information, visit Salamander’s website at www.salamanderdesigns.com

# # #

Technorati Tags: Salamander Designs, Home Theater Seating

Why purchase McAfee? Here’s a couple of reasons why Intel made this move today:

Security is a fact of life and is a major priority at Intel.

Whether we like it or not, security is a fact of life in this day and age. We’re inundated with connected devices – everything from Bluetooth-enabled cars to Internet-enabled TVs to mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets to of course your standard PC. The common theme across all of these devices and components? They’re all viable targets for criminals.

Consequently as these devices become more pervasive in our lives so does the overall importance of security. Gone is the notion that we’re safe simply by installing a firewall and an anti-virus application. Threats can come in via so many different avenues and as such Intel clearly recognizes this as a business priority and of course a business opportunity.

Security expands Intel’s product mix.

Most of us think of Intel as a hardware company but the chip behemoth actually has a sizeable software presence too. Software is of incredible importance to Intel as it helps power their processor sales. There are whole divisions within Intel dedicated to helping third party application vendors optimize their code base for the Intel architecture. There are also groups within Intel dedicated to ensuring Intel processors work across a wide range of operating systems and applications thereby encouraging vendors choose Intel-based systems over competing architectures.

Adding McAfee into the mix expands Intel’s ever-expanding software portfolio and allows the company to become a near one-stop shop for software and hardware products/services. Want a new network storage appliance? How about one that comes with security software installed already? Need a firewall? How about one with McAfee security products built right in? Security fits nicely into their product portfolio.

Software is a predictable, high-margin business.

At the end of the day it’s all about business and the software biz can be a very predictable, high-margin business if you have a large customer base (which McAfee has). Some of you may not realize this but Intel almost never goes after products or businesses that doesn’t at least deliver 50 percent gross profit margins. McAfee delivers 80 percent gross margins. Not bad!!

But..

Now the only hitch we could think of at this time would be regulatory ones. Would Symantec or AVG Technologies stand up and complain the purchase is anti-competitive? Having McAfee closely aligned with Intel would certainly give McAfee a competitive edge – especially if Intel decides to marry McAfee software/services more closely with the hardware products. Competitors could claim this purchase would shut them out of markets and industries formerly open to them.

Interesting move by Intel but one that makes sense business wise.

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: Intel, McAfee

• Anandtech reviews the Dell Streak
• Benchmark Reviews looks at the nMedia HTPC 1080p Micro ATX chassis
• CCE Reviews looks at the Eagle Arion ET-AR508LR-BK 2.1 Soundstage Speakers
• FrostyTech reviews the Akasa Venom Nano Heatsink
• FutureLooks reviews the Antec DF-85 Dark Fleet Series Full Tower ATX Computer Case
• [H]ard|OCP reviews the Astro A40 Gaming Headset and MixAmp
• Hardware Secrets reviews the NZXT HALE90-850-M Power Supply
• HEXUS reviews the Inno3D GeForce GTX 460 OC 1GB video card
• PC Mag reviews the ASUS N82Jv-X1
• PC Mag reviews the Sierra Wireless AirCard 250U for Sprint
• PC World reviews the Motorola DROID 2
• PC World reviews the Sony Ericsson XPERIA X10
• TechGage reviews the Gigabyte H55N-USB3 Mobo
• TechwareLabs reviews the Thermaltake Armor A90 computer case
• TestFreaks reviews the Lian Li USB 3.0 3.5 inch External Enclosure EX-103
• TestFreaks reviews the Samsung Captivate SGH-i897
• Think Computers reviews the ASUS AT3IONT-I Deluxe Atom 330/NVIDIA ION Mobo
• Top Review Shop reviews the Choiix Cruiser Wireless Mouse
• TweakNews reviews the ASUS DRW-24B1ST SATA DVD-RW drive

Did we miss anything? Send us your news, reviews, and tips to news@krunker.com

Technorati Tags: Krunker, Reviews of the Day - August 18th, 2010

Verizon announced today it is currently developing applications for several mobile platforms (including tablets, notebooks, and of course the Apple iPad) allowing FiOS customers to stream live television programming directly to their respective mobile device.

The application, expected sometime next year, will allow customers to roam their homes while continuing the TV viewing experience. It will also leverage the Verizon FiOS network allowing customers to see in real time what shows are popular among viewers in a given region.  Verizon is currently in talks with content providers in the hopes of getting their permission to stream their content onto FiOS customer devices.

Verizon also announced plans to release another app later this year which allows customers to watch movies purchased and rented from FiOS on BlackBerrys, Android devices, and the Apple iPad.

Update (12:47PM). Check out a picture of Verizon FiOS demoing the app on the iPad over at eHomeUpgrade

Technorati Tags: Verizon FiOS, FiOS, video streaming, Apple iPad

The next time you catch a 3D movie in the theaters you might find yourself using more stylish 3D glasses thanks to a new global license agreement announced today between Polaroid Eyewear and RealD Inc. The agreement allows Polaroid to use the RealD brand on their new generation of curved 3D glasses known as the Polaroid Premium 3D Eyewear (which also happen to be RealD certified).

More importantly for consumers, the new Eyewear lineup will feature a range of custom frames and designs that should meet the needs of practically all types of movie-goers, even folks wearing prescription lenses. All the new styles will feature Polaroid Eyewear’s unique 3D formed lenses which are also fully UV-protective.

For more information on the 3D eyewear lineup, check out http://www.polaroideyewear.com/en/collection/Premium3DGlasses.aspx

Technorati Tags: Polaroid Eyewear, Polaroid Premium 3D Eyewear, RealD

-Felix and the crew

Technorati Tags: Krunker, Krunker Site News

• Anandtech reviews the latest Apple Mac mini
• Apple Related reviews the Apple Magic Trackpad
• Benchmark Reviews looks at the ASUS ENGTX460 DirectCU TOP/2DI/1GD5
• Crunchgear reviews the Orb Home Theater Speakers
• DPreview looks at the Panasonic Lumix G10
• Overclock3D reviews the MSI P55A Fuzion
• PadGadget reviews the OtterBox Defender Case for the iPad
• PC Mag reviews the Samsung YP-R0
• PC World reviews the Dell Studio XPS 7100
• Hardware Secrets reviews the SilverStone Sugu SG07
• Insanely Great reviews the Griffin Motif iPhone 4 case
• Macworld reviews the V-Moda Remix Remote
• SlashGear reviews the Scosche IDR655m Earphones
• Techgage reviews the Thermaltake Armor A90 Mid-Tower Case
• Techware Labs reviews the NZXT HALE90 Modular Power Supply
• TweakTown reviews the Dell U2211H 21.5 inch LCD Monitor

Did we miss anything? Send us your news, reviews, and tips at news@krunker.com

Technorati Tags: Reviews of the Day August 9th, 2010, Reviews of the day

Papermaster joined Apple in late 2008 after working at IBM for 25 years. However, IBM took issue with the change of employment and filed a complaint in federal court against Papermaster claiming he had several highly confidential trade secrets of IBM. The two parties settled the case in January of 2009 with Papermaster testifying he had not revealed any trade secrets and also deferring employment with Apple until April 2009.

Papermaster declined to comment on his departure from Apple.

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: Apple, Apple antennagate, Mark Papermaster