Skype Debuts New Lite Mobile Client
January 8, 2009 by Laura
Filed under Applications, CES 2009, Cell Phones, News/Events
Skype today announced the release of a lite version of Skype, a ‘thin’ client for Skype that can be downloaded on Android-powered devices, as well as more than 100 other Java-enabled mobile phones.
This launch builds on public testing last year and the incorporation of user feedback to an earlier beta version which was only available on a limited number of mobile devices. The updated beta now makes Skype software broadly available to millions of mobile users worldwide, including for the first time, mobile users in the U.S. The lite version delivers core Skype capabilities including:
- Make Skype-to-Skype calls to other Skype users anywhere in the world
- Send/receive instant messages to/from individuals or groups
- Make Skype calls at low rates to people on landline or mobile phones
- Receive calls to your online personal phone number on Skype
- See when your Skype contacts are online/available to chat
By bringing the world’s leading Internet communications software to mobile phones, Skype users can save money on calls to landlines and mobiles abroad, and stay connected with friends and family over Skype while on the go. The lite version of Skype works wherever your mobile phone works, without requiring a WiFi connection. The lite version of Skype uses local air time and a mobile internet connection in order to sign in to Skype, update your contact list, update presence and send/receive calls or messages, so you must have both a calling plan and a data plan on your mobile phone to use it.
“Making the Skype experience available for download to Android-powered devices, as well as hundreds of other mobile phones from the world’s leading handset manufacturers is a major step forward for Skype,” said Scott Durchslag, COO of Skype. “Nearly half the world’s population are mobile phone users today and we know that many people who already use Skype want the option to use Skype on their mobile phones. We are committed to working towards our goal of getting Skype into the pockets of the mobile masses.”
The lite version of Skype is currently available for Android devices, which today include the T-Mobile G1, the first Android-powered mobile phone currently available in the United States and the United Kingdom. It is expected to also work on other future Android devices. Android device users can download this beta version of Skype by visiting Android Market.
It also works on more than 100 of the most popular Java-enabled phones from the world’s top five handset manufacturers – LG, Motorola, Nokia, Samsung and Sony Ericsson. For instructions on downloading the lite version of Skype to LG, Motorola, Nokia, Samsung and Sony Ericsson phones, users can visit www.skype.com/m using the mobile browser on their phone or www.skype.com/go/mobiledownload from a computer. The web page includes a directory of the mobile phones currently supported.
The lite version of Skype is available globally, with the ability to make Skype-to-Skype calls and low cost calls to landlines and mobiles abroad currently available in ten countries: the United States, United Kingdom, Poland, Brazil (Rio and Sao Paolo), Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Estonia, Australia and New Zealand.
JVC Intros Advanced In-Dash Navigation
January 8, 2009 by Laura
Filed under CES 2009, GPS, Gadgets, News/Events
JVC has announced the release of the new KW-NT1 includes an advanced Intelligent Navigation with Text-to-Speech, and a 6.1-inch detachable faceplate for extra security. Also included is a high quality DVD pick-up & mechanism, built in Bluetooth wireless technology with high-quality external microphone and front mounted full-speed USB 2.0 and AV-input connections. These connections allow the user to connect their iPod/iPhone or other audio/video devices directly into the front of the receiver via USB or using the included AV mini-jack cable. While connected through the front USB, 2-way control for iPod/iPhone allows the option to control music selections from the receiver’s touch panel or iPod/iPhone itself. An SD card slot for MP3 audio playback is also integrated.
The KW-NT1’s intelligent navigation software provides an interface with magnified viewing, on-screen lane guidance and speed limit display. Points of Interest are searchable by: name, vicinity, business phone number, address, zip code, or coordinates. Up to 100 favorite destinations can be stored, as well as 50 previously searched destinations. A “Favorites” tab allows quick access to frequently used destinations while “text-to-speech” is provided to give directions audibly in one of three languages: English, Spanish, or French. A personalized spoken message also can be created to sound when the system is powered on and powered off.
The KW-NT1’s built-in Bluetooth wireless technology allows for stress-free driving and includes flexible set up options with an external wired microphone. The unit provides storage for phone book entries plus previously dialed and received calls. Also provided is an on-screen Dial pad and “POI Touch Dialing” which allows hands-free calling to Points of Interest which can been searched using the receiver’s internal POI listings.
The KW-NT1’s iPod/iPhone controls are displayed on-screen and categorized using the same familiar categories and layers as the iPod interface. GUI (Graphical User Interface) for Shuffle and Repeat allows playing mode selection without requiring to change the display. Category Tab and Alphabetical Search provide easy iPod/iPhone like operations while the scroll bar allows large archive searching.
Other features of the KW-NT1 include 6 Million Points of Interest, built-in comprehensive map coverage including: United States, Alaska, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico, 3D Map viewing, excessive speed alert, adaptive volume control, MOS-FET 50W x 4, rear view camera input, J-BUS terminal, steering wheel remote ready, and gold-plated input and output terminals. The KW-NT1 is available in March at an MSRP of $1,099.05.
The KW-NT1 joins the 2009 lineup to accompany the new KW-NX7000BT AV Navigation receiver bundle, which now includes the KW-NX7000 in-dash AV Navigation receiver and JVC’s KS-BTA200 Bluetooth adapter. The KW-NX7000 has recently received the CES Innovation Design & Engineering Showcase Honors for 2009. Feature highlights of the KW-NX7000BT include: Built-In Navigation with 12 Million Points of Interest, DVD/CD/USB/SD playback, 7-inch touch panel monitor with detachable panel, and proximity sensor. Included KS-BTA200 adapter features hands-free calling capability, wireless audio streaming with control, text message notification, phonebook transfer, and voice recognition dialing. The KW-NX7000BT is available in March at an MSRP of $1,199.95.
Horizon Intros Hydrogen Cell Phone Charger
January 8, 2009 by Laura
Filed under CES 2009, Cell Phones, News/Events
Horizon’s pocket-sized fuel cell device named MiniPak will be unveiled for the first time today at the opening of the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. Pursuing its plan to “start small”, Horizon pioneered the mass production of fuel cells in popular model scale fuel cell cars that have been sold to consumers worldwide for over two years. With continued progress in technology and product development, Horizon is now moving forward with a first hydrogen powered cell phone charger.
Horizon’s MiniPak cell phone charger integrates a newly developed high-capacity solid hydrogen battery. The eco-friendly energy storage device does not contain any mercury, lead or cadmium and can be used and re-used hundreds of times, while storing hydrogen safely as a solid hydride. These small refuelable devices are designed to create a small-scale hydrogen supply infrastructure that can later expand to benefit numerous other applications from stationary power to long range electric transport.
The newly created MiniPak is now part of the company’s emerging portable power fuel cell product line, which includes the HydroPak, an emergency power unit that runs on water-activated 270Wh cartridges. Both products are designed to be cost competitive with conventional battery-based chargers while providing longer-lasting power to users.
Dell Announces USB Digital TV Tuner for Inspiron Mini Family
January 8, 2009 by Doug
Filed under CES 2009, Hardware, News/Events, PC Hardware
Dell today unveiled a USB digital TV tuner that allows individuals to watch broadcast TV on the Inspiron Mini. Dell will offer region-specific versions, designed to receive local broadcast standards. Dell expects the tuner to be available later this quarter, first in Europe, followed by North America and Asia-Pacific and China.
The Dell USB Digital TV Tuner will receive live and free over-the-air local digital and HD TV broadcasts where available and full ready for the DTV switch over happening in the US in February. Similar in size to a USB key or “thumb drive,” the Digital TV tuner includes a built in telescoping and articulating antenna that retracts into the sleek glossy black case.
Dell plans to offer regional-specific versions of the Digital TV Tuner, designed to receive local broadcast standards, including mobile digital television standards like ATSC in the U.S., DVB-T in Western Europe, ISDB-T 1-seg (a.k.a. One Seg) in Japan, and the emerging CMMB standard in China.
Dell teamed up with Siano Mobile Silicon and Hauppauge Computer Works to designed the product. It is compatible with Ubuntu Linux (8.04), Windows XP and Windows Vista Basic. The price will start at $50.
iRiver Wave-Home Makes Communications Easy
January 8, 2009 by Laura
Filed under CES 2009, Hardware, Home Audio, Home Electronics, Networking, News/Events
iriver, has announced the release of it’s new home networking device, the Wave-Home. It is designed to be the ultimate all-in-one solution that provides advanced multimedia, web and phone capabilities – a comprehensive communications handler. Featuring a sleek base station and portable handset, the Wave-Home manages and integrates phone, Internet, home entertainment and lifestyle needs.
Kuno Kim, President, iriver, said, “The Wave-Home is a milestone introduction for iriver as we expand our product innovation and design into exciting new areas such as life and home networking. Our mission has always been to help consumers easily connect with the things they value most in life. Our new networking devices take this concept to the next level by providing a stylish and powerful way to stay completely connected to every aspect of your home and business life and relationships.”
The Wave-Home comes with a stylish base station with a 7″ color LCD touch screen and is designed to integrate all of your personal digital content such as music, photos, movies, digital photo frame, hand drawing, Internet and phone services. Music, video, and FM radio can all be enjoyed in pristine sound thanks to the Wave-Home built-in, high-quality stereo speakers.
Wave-Home is not just a VolP telephone, it’s an internet multimedia communication device that combines a wide variety of activities at home or in the office. It can be used privately or in a broader context, such as creating new business opportunities via broadband internet such as VoIP. When connected to broadband Internet, the Wave-Home offers Web surfing, and also supports Internet phone service at home and in the office with VoIP Phone, VoIP Video Phone, SMS/MMS, MMCID/MMRB, live Phonebook sync, and more. Phone calls can be made by using either the internal speaker phone or the wireless handset that also supports a remote controller. Wave-Home also features a 1.3M pixel CMOS camera for taking sharp photos that can be instantly presented via the photo viewer.
Another exciting feature is the intelligent Widget that provides instant weather, stock and traffic updates, as well as web and multimedia services that users can enjoy without a computer since the device is connected to broadband internet. The Widget utilizes a graphical user interface (GUI) and displays an individual information window or a text box. The defining characteristic of a Widget is to provide a single interaction point for the direct manipulation of a given kind of data. Therefore, the user can arrange his or her data with several Widget functions such as Widget Connector, Widget Icon, Widget Manager and Widget Gallery. It provides many options on the 7” color touch screen. The interface has also been designed to be easy to use and features touch screen capability.
iRiver Releases New WiFi Line-up
January 8, 2009 by Laura
Filed under CES 2009, Gadgets, Hardware, Home Audio, Home Electronics, MP3 Players, Networking, News/Events
iriver, is giving consumers more ways to stay connected in 2009 with a host of new Wi-Fi based networking devices. Iriver’s new line up includes the iriver WAVE multimedia internet phone, the D50N Multimedia Networking Device with Keyboard and the P35 Portable Media Player with Wi-Fi capability.
iriver’s WAVE Internet Phone
The iriver WAVE heralds the next wave in Internet mobility and multimedia enjoyment. This powerful networking device uses Wi-Fi for telecommunications, enabling voice over Internet, text messaging, and music from Bugs Music, at a higher quality than in the PC environment. The iriver WAVE can also be used in areas where no wireless networks are available as a call forwarding service is possible.
The iriver WAVE has a graphic user interface based around a 3″ LCD touch screen, and enables a host of functions, including: Internet Phone, SMS texting, downloading music from Bugs Music, Music, Video, Photo viewer, E-Dictionary, Flash Game, and FM Radio.
Kuno Kim, President, iriver said, “iriver is very committed to delivering networking devices as part of its 2009 product vision. The iriver Wave phone is a new-concept network device that is perfect for Wi-Fi environments. Telecommunications services are evolving by delivering various values according to the lifestyles of the customers. The release of the iriver Wave will accelerate the trend of equipping mobile multimedia devices with telecommunications via Wi-Fi.”
The iriver Wave phone comes with a set of earphones, a USB cable, a stylus pen, a battery holder, an adapter, a quick start guide, the warranty card, and the installation CD. Additional features include a built-in mom speaker, SRS WOW HD, 7 Preset EQ settings, 4GB Nand Flash, USB 2.0, and Flash Lite 2.0.2.
P35 PMP with Wi-Fi
Iriver’s P35 is a portable media player that goes where others don’t with its built-in Wi-Fi capability and G-sensor, which allows the user to pivot the interface by simply turning the device. The G-sensor also gives the user the cool and convenient ability to change the song they are listening to by shaking the player, instead of using buttons.
The versatile device offers Music, Video (30fps), Photo viewer, Drawing, FM Radio, Voice Recording, Flash game, Office viewer and DMB (in regions where available),
The P35 utilizes iriver’s award-winning SPINN technology that matches digital performance with the retro feel of analog user controls. Other features include A 4.3” TFT-LCD with Touch screen, Built in Mic and TV-out, support of Full Movie CODEC, a built-in speaker, 16 GB and 32GB Nand Flash (Micro SD Slot), and USB 2.0.OTG The P35 supports DSLR Raw file viewing.
D50N Multimedia Networking Device with Keyboard
Iriver’s powerful new D50 is a compact, keyboard-based networking and multimedia device that offers full Internet browsing and Instant Messaging in Wi-Fi environments. Featuring a large 4.8” TFT LCD (WVGA 800×480) with full touch screen interactivity, the D50 lets you enjoy multimedia on the fly, including Video, Music, Photo viewer, Office viewer, FM Radio, Voice Recording, and Dictionary. It provides 16GB Nand Flash (Micro SD Slot) and USB2.0.
Vizio Expands HDTV Line-up
January 7, 2009 by Laura
Filed under CES 2009, Home Electronics, News/Events, Televisions
VIZIO has unveiled several new models to the XVT Series expanding the performance line with five NEW models. First in the line-up is the use of LED panels featuring 240Hz with Scanning Backlight and VIZIO’s Smooth Motion II technology in their largest model the 55” VF551XVT. LED backlight technology provides better picture quality with 1,000,000:1 Mega Dynamic Contrast with local dimming. LED also provides faster response times and higher color saturation. It is also mercury free. The VIZIO VF551XVT has 5 HDMI Inputs and a speaker bar designed into the TV.
Vizio is also expanding their collection of 42” and 47” XVTs to include 240Hz with scanning backlight using Smooth Motion II technology and Mega Dynamic Contrast ratio of 50,000:1. All new XVT models integrate the latest SRS sound technologies like SRS TruSurround HD, and SRS TruVolume for a complete all-in-one home theater solution.
“VIZIO is committed to providing the absolute latest advanced technologies to consumers at a value. Consumers expect great performance and style from VIZIO” says Laynie Newsome, VIZIO Co-Founder and VP Sales and Marketing Communications. “You will see this demonstrated in the many new products we are introducing at CES, our prestigious XVT Series exemplifies what we believe is the best performing leading edge HDTV technology for consumers.”
The expanded XVT Series offers more advanced features than any previous VIZIO product line with a complete line of Full HD 1080p performance coupled with both 120Hz and 240Hz with Scanning Backlight.
Using advanced LED backlight control local dimming, the VF551XVT is capable of delivering the brightest highlights and the deepest blacks. Coupled with VIZIO’s Mega Dynamic Contrast Ratio these sets can provide a contrast ratio designed to rival the performance of the best plasma displays. The use of local dimming to increase overall contrast ratio and picture quality, especially in brightly lit rooms, allows these LED models to exhibit deep, three-dimensional-like images.
VIZIO’s Smooth Motion II technology steps up the game with 240Hz Refresh Rate in the SV421XVT and SV471XVT eliminating motion blur from fast-action sequences.
Every LED and LCD model in the series is outfitted with the Advanced Glare Polarizer (AGP) and Enhanced In-Plane Switching (IPS). AGP provides up to 60% better contrast ratio in bright room environments. Earlier Anti-Glare screens tended to create an overall haze on the TV image; however, VIZIO’s solution counteracts the effects of ambient light, while keeping images bright and clear. By reducing the reflections that are produced by ambient light, the overall picture contrast can be preserved. IPS produces truer colors at wider viewing angles ensuring vivid and clear pictures even when sitting off-axis.
VIZIO’s advanced HD/SD noise reduction removes noise and artifacts caused by signal compression from cable and satellite providers. Each model is outfitted with multiple HDMI inputs for maximum connectivity with DVD/Blu-ray players, digital cable and satellite set-top boxes, gaming consoles, and HD camcorders. All XVT series sets have a Game Port on the side of the set with inputs (including HDMI) for fast, easy connection of other devices.
Every model is also equipped with audio enhancement technologies from SRS Labs to ensure the best possible audio performance from built-in speakers. The 55″ VF551XVT and VF550XVT1A take audio performance to a new level with the integration of a Sound Bar that delivers 30W of power (15W x2-speakers), enhanced by SRS TruSurround HD and TruVolume HD. All the other new XVT models (SV320XVT, SV370XVT, SV422XVT, SV472XVT) also take advantage of SRS TruSurround and TruVolume.
SRS TruSurround HD makes it possible to enjoy realistic surround sound without running cables or adding additional speakers. Providing a suite of processes, TruSurround HD uses the improved SRS TruBass to optimize the low frequency performance of the VIZIO Sound Bar for cleaner bass tones. 
SRS’ latest innovation, TruVolume HD allows customers to set their volume level at a pre-defined position. SRS uses Intelligent Multi-band Monitoring and Analysis to establish a consistent volume.
VIZIO is committed to making more eco-friendly products and designs. To that end, the VF551XVT use LED panels rather than CCFL panels. LED panels do not use mercury, and are highly efficient requiring less power.
Also being introduced in these same models is Dynamic Power Control (DCP), which lowers power consumption by up to 15% more than Energy Star 3.0 requirements without sacrificing picture quality. DCP analyzes image data to optimize the amount of backlight produced, minimizing image distortion. According to CNET tests, TVs that meet Energy Star 3.0 requirements can save up to $100 a year, so it is possible to save even more using VIZIO’s latest products with DCP.
VIZIO guarantees zero bright pixel defects for the duration of the limited one-year warranty on all their products. Additionally, they provide free one-year on-site service and lifetime technical support.
XVT Models and Features:
Model: SV320XVT
Size: 32″ 120Hz FULL HD 1080P LCD HDTV
Contrast: Mega Dynamic 50,000:1
Refresh Rate: 120 Hz
HDMI inputs: 3
Audio Enhancements: SRS TruSurround HD & TruVolume
Availability: Fall 2009
Price: $749.99
Model: SV370XVT
Size: 37″ 120Hz FULL HD 1080P LCD HDTV
Contrast: Mega Dynamic 50,000:1
Refresh Rate: 120 Hz
HDMI inputs: 3
Audio Enhancements: SRS TruSurround HD & TruVolume
Availability: Fall 2009
Price: $999.99
Model: SV421XVT
Size: 42″ LCD
Contrast: Mega Dynamic 50,000:1
Refresh Rate: 240 Hz
HDMI inputs: 4
Game Port: Yes
Audio Enhancements: SRS TruSurround HD & TruVolume
Availability: Summer 2009
Price: $1099.99
Model: SV471XVT
Size: 47″ LCD
Contrast: Mega Dynamic 50,000:1
Refresh Rate: 240 Hz
HDMI inputs: 4
Game Port: Yes
Audio Enhancements: SRS TruSurround HD & TruVolume
Availability: Summer 2009
Price: $1399.99
Model: VF551XVT1A
Size: 55″ LED
Contrast: 1,000,000:1 Mega Dynamic Contrast Ratio
Refresh Rate: 120 Hz
HDMI inputs: 5
Game Port: Yes
Audio Enhancements: Integrated Sound Bar, SRS TruSurround HD & TruVolume
Availability: Summer 2009
Price: $1999.99
Sony Ericsson Announces C905 Software Update and New Color
January 7, 2009 by Doug
Filed under Applications, CES 2009, Cell Phones, News/Events
Starting in mid-February, C905 owners can download a software update from Sony Ericsson’s Web site that will bring new features to the camera phone. They include smile shutter, a feature that will automatically shoot a picture when the camera detects a smile, and app support for YouTube and Snapfish. The upgrade also will add WayFinder 8 for GPS navigation.
Sony Ericsson also announced a new version of the C905 in pink (tender rose). It will be available in the first quarter of this year.
New Budget Minded Sony Ericsson Cyber-Shot
January 7, 2009 by Doug
Filed under CES 2009, Cell Phones, News/Events
The new Sony Ericsson Cyber-Shot C510 should be the new low end model for the first part of 2009. It has a3.2-megapixel shooter with a flash, a 3.2x digital zoom, face detection, smile shutter (the camera will snap a photo automatically when it detects a smile), a lens cover, and built-in editing features.
The cell supports YouTube and Snapfish , a 262,144-color display, an audio recorder, video recording, a speakerphone, video calling, polyphonic ringtones, messaging and e-mail, a music player, USB mass storage, 3G support, PC syncing, modem support, and geotagging for photos.
The C510 should be available in the first quarter of this year in silver and black. No US carriers have been announced as picking it up at this time. The C510a version will be quad-band GSM with support for both North American and European 3G bands.
Verizon Intros Fios DVR Programming for Cell Customers
January 7, 2009 by Doug
Filed under Applications, CES 2009, Cell Phones, News/Events
Verizon will soon allow some Fios TV customers to remotely access their DVRs online from a computer or via a Verizon Wireless cell phone, the offical word will come Thursday.
So via supported phones or a browser, Fios TV subscribers will be able to remotely review, change or add recording requests, delete recorded programs, browse and search TV and video-on-demand listings, and set parental controls.
To use the service on your cell phone, you will need to download software from Verizon and own one of the select Verizon Wireless handsets. The LG enV2, LG Voyager and LG Chocolate 2 handsets are known to be supported. More phones wil be added later in the year