HP Releases New Companion PC’s
October 30, 2008 by Laura
Filed under Hardware, PC Hardware
HP has expanded the HP Mini family with three models of a new HP Mini 1000 line. Following the launch of its education-focused mini PC introduced in April.
This array of mini is designed to address the needs of Internet-centric consumers, mobile professionals, always-on social media enthusiasts and fashion-forward women.
“Staying connected to your world – however you define it – is increasingly important to people on the go,” said Ted Clark, senior vice president and general manager, Notebook Global Business Unit, Personal Systems Group, HP. “That’s why HP is excited to address this new high-growth market with a portfolio of head-turning mini companion PCs that are fun and easy to use.”
Each is less than 1-inch thick, weighs a little more than 2 pounds and has a keyboard that is 92 percent the size of a standard notebook PC keyboard. All come with a BrightView widescreen Infinity display (1,024 x 600 resolution) with flush glass and LED backlight, built-in webcam and microphone.
Powered by Intel Atom N270 1.6-gigahertz (GHz) processors, HP Minis will be made available worldwide in an array of configure-to-order options. Mini PCs are geared toward information “snacking” and content enjoyment, as opposed content-creation capabilities found in fully functional notebook PCs.
The three models are as follows:
The HP Mini 1000 features a piano-black finish with HP Imprint swirl design is pre-installed with Windows XP Home, making access to the web,critical files and PC applications easily portable. It includes an Ethernet jack, two USB ports, and Wi-Fi and Bluetooth wireless capabilities. Versions with 3G capabilities are expected to be available in December. Configuration choices include screen size – 8.9-inch or 10.2-inch diagonal BrightView display – and solid-state or mechanical hard-drive options.
The HP Mini 1000 Vivienne Tam Edition was first unveiled on the runway of Tam’s Fall 2009 Fashion Week show in Battery Park in New York, although many on the scene mistook it for a purse rather than the companion PC that it is. Tam labeled it the world’s first“digital clutch.” It runs Windows XP Home, making the web,critical files and PC applications easily portable. It includes an Ethernet jack, two USB ports, and Wi-Fi and Bluetooth wireless capabilities. Versions with 3G capabilities are expected to be available in December.
The HP Mini 1000 with MIE (Mobile Internet Experience) was created as a simple, mobile Internet companion. THe MIE comes with instant messaging, email and Skype for online video chat. Applications enabling browsing, email and online video are pre-loaded and run from the MIE dashboard, to minimize startup time. Favorite websites that are added to the dashboard stay live and can be accessed from the taskbar. The HP Mini 1000 with MIE runs the Linux operating system. It includes an Ethernet jack, two USB ports, and Wi-Fi and Bluetooth wireless capabilities.
- The HP Mini 1000 is available today in the United States at www.hpdirect.com with a starting price of $399.
- The HP Mini 1000 Vivienne Tam Edition is expected to be available in the United States in mid-December via www.hpdirect.com and at Tam’s designer boutique in New York City. It is expected to be priced at $699.
- The HP Mini 1000 with MIE is expected to be available in the United States in January via www.hpdirect.com with a starting price of $379.
Flightview Mobile Makes Travel Easy
October 30, 2008 by Laura
Filed under Applications, Cell Phones
Flightview, providers of online flight information, have announced the release of their new free offering for mobile users. FlightView’s mobile tracker is designed to deliver the information travelers need in a format customized for smart phones, PDAs and other handhelds.
With delays, surcharges and inconvenience being the norm in air travel today, Flightview’s mobile application endeavors to empower travelers with the information they need to make well-informed and immediate choices. From checking flights while on-the-go to knowing they can make a connection in the next terminal.
“Our number one goal is to continue to find ways to make air travel less difficult for both the casual and savvy traveler,” said Michael Benjamin, CEO of FlightView. “With more than 80 percent of the public relying on some sort of mobile device, we’re very pleased to be putting the information they need in their hands – literally.”
Users simply log on to flightview.com and enter an airline code and flight number or a route and within seconds the information they need appears on the screen in a format specifically designed for the mobile device.
Users get:
- An accurate display of up-to-the-minute information on the flight’s status - whether it’s in-air, scheduled, landed, delayed or cancelled.
- The ability to quickly see a flight’s current location while en route on a map. The flight tracking map centers the aircraft’s flight path, making it easier to view.
- A translucent radar weather overlay which shows the impact that weather may have on a flight’s arrival or departure time.
EA Mobile Plans Games for Android
October 30, 2008 by Laura
Filed under Cell Phones, Games
EA Mobile has announced the development of two games for the T-Mobile G1, the first Android powered mobile phone. Tetris is available today and Bejeweled and Monopoly Here & Now Edition will become available in November. All three games will be available in the United States for purchase and download directly from www.eamobile.com.
“Android is another exciting new platform to offer customers great games with enhancements like touch and tilt capabilities,” said Adam Sussman, VP Publishing Americas and Asia for EA Mobile. “Tetris, Bejeweled, and Monopoly Here & Now Edition are the first titles we’re launching on the platform, with more games in development.”
Tetris for Android has a touch screen lets you spin, flick and move Minos in three challenging modes. Players clear lines and rows as fast as they can to rack up a big score in thrilling 40 Lines mode. They race against the clock to earn points in action packed Ultra mode.
The Android version of the gem-swapping puzzle game Bejeweled features touch screen controls that let players line up sparkling diamonds, gleaming sapphires, twinkling rubies and more in both portrait and landscape displays. They play until no more rows or columns of gems are possible in Classic mode. Or players can race against the clock on their mission to fill the progress bar and advance to the next level in Action mode.
Monopoly Here & Now Edition on Android, allows players to touch the screen to control the game. They buy and sell properties like Waikiki Beach, Fenway Park, and more. Dynamic animated tokens include a hybrid car, a mobile phone, and a labradoodle. Players demonstrate their trading savvy as they buy, sell, and put their competitors out of business and compete to win all the Monopoly cash!
For information on carrier availability and pricing for all EA Mobile games, please visit www.eamobile.com.
AT&T Debuts “World’s Thinnest QWERTY Keyboard” Handset
October 29, 2008 by Doug
Filed under Cell Phones
Pantech Wireless, one of Korea’s largest mobile phone manufacturers – today announced the availability of the “World’s Thinnest QWERTY Keyboard” handset, the Pantech Slate. The Slate is less than one centimeter deep and is custom-made for sending texts, pictures, instant messaging and email.
The phone is aim those that want both function and fashion in a headset. The Slate has raised buttons for good tactile input, a colorful screen, and a rubberized back panel for comfort gripping.
“We are proud to bring yet another design first to Pantech customers,” said Patrick Beattie, vice president of sales and marketing for Pantech Wireless, Inc. “Experience shows that users want increasingly unique devices that are easy to use. The Slate, debuting as the world’s thinnest phone with a full QWERTY keypad, ushers in a new level of style and convenience for customers who need to text and email.”
Featured in black and royal blue to complement its form-factor, Slate offers:
- Immediate access to a range of messaging services, including text messaging, multimedia messaging, instant messaging, and email
- Multimedia functionality including support of AT&T’s MEdia Net and custom content
- Bluetooth
- Video recording and picture taking with a 1.3 megapixel camera
Adobe Releases New Updates
October 28, 2008 by Laura
Filed under Digital Imaging, Digital Still, Mac Software, PC Software, Software
Adobe has released updates to Photoshop Lightroom and the Photoshop Camera Raw plug-in, both available immediately as free upgrades for Lightroom 2 and Photoshop CS4 users.
The releases provide added raw file support for 15 digital cameras including the Nikon D90, Nikon D700, Canon EOS 50D and Canon EOS 1000D. The Lightroom 2.1 update also includes improvements to Photoshop integration, Web module stability for Microsoft Windows Vista 64-bit operating systems, performance with 64-bit Mac OS X 10.5 Macintosh computers, and Keyword migration from Lightroom.
Adobe has also released a new set of camera profiles available at Adobe Labs. The camera profiles are targeted at improving Adobe’s default raw processing and emulating the color rendering provided by camera manufacturers. The update includes added support for the Leica M8, Canon EOS 50D, Canon G9, Nikon D90 and Pentax models.
The 15 new digital cameras supported in Lightroom 2.1 and Camera Raw 5.1 include the Canon EOS 1000D, Canon EOS 50D, Fuji FinePix IS Pro, Kodak EasyShare Z1015 IS, Leaf AFi II 6, Leaf AFi II 7, Leaf Aptus II 6, Leaf Aptus II 7, Nikon D700, Nikon D90, Nikon Coolpix P6000, Olympus SP-565 UZ, Pentax K2000, Sigma DP1, and Sony A900. Additionally, Adobe recently released Camera Raw 4.6, which includes the same raw file support for Photoshop CS3 customers.
The Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 2.1 is available as a free download for existing customers at www.adobe.com/downloads/updates/. Photoshop Lightroom 2 can be purchased through the Adobe Store at www.adobe.com/store. The estimated street price is $299 for new users with an upgrade price of $99 for registered users of qualifying Lightroom customers. The updated camera profiles are available as a separate download on Adobe Labs at http://labs.adobe.com. The Photoshop Camera Raw plug-ins are available as free downloads for existing customers. Camera Raw 5.1 for Photoshop CS4 users and Camera Raw for Photoshop CS3 users are available at www.adobe.com/downloads/updates/.
Dell Looks For Tweeters With Inspiron Mini
October 28, 2008 by Laura
Filed under Hardware, PC Hardware
Dell has introduced the Inspiron Mini 12, a small, easy-to-carry Internet companion that people can customize to fit their specific needs and deeds. Like its counterpart the Inspion Mini 9, the Mini 12 is designed for teens, tweens, travelers and ”Tweeters” to surf the Web, chat with friends, blog, stream content, upload photos or enjoy online videos, music and games.
The Inspiron Mini 12 is available initially only in Japan through Bic Camera, Kojima and Sofmap stores and other retail outlets. It will launch online globally by late November with configurations starting under $600. Ubuntu and Windows XP operating systems will also be available before the end of the year.
Features include:
- Starting weight of only 2.72 lbs. and only 0.92 in. thick
- Windows Vista Home Basic, built-in webcam, 1GB of RAM and a choice of 60 GB or 80 GB hard drive, providing ample capacity for mobile applications, content creation and storage.
- Built-in Bluetooth and 802.11b/g wireless.
- A sharp 12.1-inch WXGA display, offering wider viewing angles and exceptional brightness.
- Service offerings and add-on options designed to help ensure devices are easy to use and maintain optimal performance, including: Dell Support Center and Dell Connect Remote Assistance.
Dell is encouraging Twitter users to join in the conversation about the Inspiron Mini 12 by following www.twitter.com/hashtags, typing their comment and ending the tweet with #min.
Handmark Sudoku Available for iPhone
October 21, 2008 by Laura
Filed under Cell Phones, Games
Handmark has announced the availability of Astraware Sudoku for iPhone and iPod touch on the Apple App Store. Astraware Sudoku uses the Multi-Touch user interface to offer an experience optimized for iPhone and iPod touch users with gameplay for all levels and abilities.
”The Astraware team has many years of experience in touch screen gaming and has earned a fantastic reputation in the industry for the quality of games developed,” said Paul Reddick, Handmark CEO. “We are pleased to expand our offerings in the Apple App Store with what we believe is the best Sudoku game available for iPhone and iPod touch.”
“We wanted to make a game that was extremely enjoyable and playable, with the smart features seamlessly incorporated so they are available without getting in your way,” said Howard Tomlinson, Director of Games
Development, Astraware. “Our hints help you to look for answers rather than giving them to you straight away, so you still get the pleasure of finding and solving the puzzle for yourself. That way, players improve and find themselves attempting – and completing – the trickier puzzles.”
A Puzzle of the Day feature allows players to download daily puzzles directly to their device using Wi-Fi or a cellular data connection. Players can select their difficulty level and, on completion of the puzzle, submit their time to Sudoku of the Day to see how they compare against other players around the world.
In addition, Astraware Sudoku includes a puzzle generator that can create an unlimited number of true Sudoku puzzles. Players can also enter Sudoku from newspapers or magazines and complete them within the game, and use all of the included assistance features to help solve them.
Astraware Sudoku is available for $1.99 worldwide from Apple’s App Store on iPhone and iPod touch or at www.itunes.com/appstore/. For more information and view a video demonstration of the game, visit http://www.astraware.com/iphone/sudoku.
Alltel Wireless has Rhythm
October 21, 2008 by Laura
Filed under Cell Phones
Alltel Wireless and LG have announced that the LG Rhythm is available in Alltel retail stores and online at shopalltel.com. The LG Rhythm was created with music enthusiasts in mind and is equipped with an advanced music system.
The LG Rhythm offers customers a music player with Digital Signal Processing, as well as a graphic equalizer professionally tuned by Mark Levinson. The phone also includes an FM transmitter that streams songs to a car stereo or other receiver from up to 10 feet away. The LG Rhythm also comes with a 3.5 mm stereo headset with a microphone that allows users to toggle between music and incoming calls.
“We recognize our customers are seeking a multifunctional handset that is both fun to use and enhances their mobile lifestyle,” said Brian Ullem, vice president of device strategy for Alltel Wireless. “With the introduction of the LG Rhythm, Alltel remains dedicated to providing customers with entertainment-focused handsets and a world class wireless experience.”
“The LG Rhythm is a great option for consumers who are looking for a multi-faceted music phone with premium sound,” said Ehtisham Rabbani, vice president of product strategy & marketing for LG Mobile Phones. “There is no question that consumers crave more out of their mobile devices and LG continues to bring the features and functions that truly enhance their mobile lives.”
The LG Rhythm is designed to have the functionality of a wireless phone with the entertainment options of an MP3 player. With 120 MB of internal memory, users can store their favorite songs or video files access the files using a designated music hot key and 1-inch circular touchscreen. Other features include a 2-inch main LCD display screen, a 1.3 megapixel camera with zoom and camcorder, Bluetooth 2.0 capabilities, background music mode and a microSD external memory port supporting up to 16 GB.
Alltel Wireless is offering the LG Rhythm in black or white for $119.99 after $50 mail-in-rebate and a two-year service agreement. The LG Rhythm is available in Alltel retail stores and online at shopalltel.com.
MacSpeech Dictate 1.2 Now Available
October 21, 2008 by Laura
Filed under Mac Software, Software
MacSpeech today released MacSpeech Dictate v1.2, the first major update to their speech recognition solution for the Macintosh. Now for the first time, MacSpeech Dictate customers can dictate any specific word, no matter how obscure, by spelling it letter-by-letter with the new Spelling mode.
“MacSpeech Dictate 1.2 makes amazing accuracy get even better as you use it,” explained Andrew Taylor, founder and CEO of MacSpeech, Inc. “We’re thrilled with the huge leap forward this update provides our customers, who can now dictate precise spellings, move their cursor using their voice and improve their recognition accuracy toward the holy grail of 99%.”
The new Spelling mode in version 1.2 makes it possible to spell-out acronyms, names and unusual words. The new Move command, introduced in version 1.2, was created to allow people to use their voice to relocate the cursor within a document for easier vocal editing.
Version 1.2 also includes new Phrase Training, what speech recognition applications on other platforms refer to as “Correction,” to improve speech recognition accuracy over time. The new Phrase Training capabilities enable people to act immediately when they notice text has been recognized differently than intended, and promptly train the application to recognize the word or phrase. The applicable profile stores the Phrase Training data for future reference. MacSpeech Dictate is designed to continually increase accuracy over time from what was established during the initial voice training, or from specific execution of vocabulary training.
MacSpeech Dictate requires Intel-based Macintosh hardware and requires Mac OS X 10.4.11 or Mac OS X 10.5.2 and higher. MacSpeech Dictate is currently available in English at http://www.macspeech.com in the U.S., athttp://www.macspeech.co.uk in the U.K., and in other English-speaking countries through International resellers and distributors listed at http://www.macspeech.com/resellers/.
Freeverse and Strange Flavour Release Plank for iPhone
October 20, 2008 by Doug
Filed under Cell Phones, Games
Freeverse today announced the release of Plank, the steampunk styled, tilt-based puzzle game for the iPhone and iPod touch. Plank was developed by Strange Flavour, creators of the Apple Design Award winning ToySight and best selling Airburst and Airburst Extreme games.
Plank is a puzzle game where the gameplay is based almost exclusively on the accelerometer. Tilt the steam powered hydraulic plank to catch colored marbles and roll them to match each other as they fall. Too many marbles and the plank will collapse under the weight, so you have to match them fast. Watch out for all the amazing power-ups and specials, including the “Shake” smart bomb! Just as you’re starting to panic, shake the device and one of your limited number of Shakes will destroy a whole line of marbles. Other power-ups drop more marbles, make everything faster, slower or even make the plank slippery.
“Plank is an ideal game for the iPhone,” said Aaron Fothergill, Managing Director of Strange Flavour. “It seems easy and casual at first, but a few levels into the “Nnnaaarrrgh!” difficulty game and you’ll be twitching!”
Plank is immediately available for $1.99 on the iTunes App Store.