Engadget9/20/2012 12:51:00 PM As a species, we've spent a lot of time learning how the human brain works, but we've had to go without a true, thorough map of how genes manifest themselves in our craniums; previous maps have been limited to the simpler minds of mice. The Allen Institute for Brain Science is now known to have solved that mystery by recently finishing an extensive, detailed 3D atlas of genetic expression within our own brain tissue. Accomplishing the feat required no small amount of resources, including the definition of 900 subdivisions, conducting over 62,000 gene expression probes and producing the MRI scans of two and a half brains, but the result is a potentially vital tool for neuroscience and education. Curious web users can see a visual map of gene expression based on virtually any criteria they need, whether it's a physical region of the brain, a disease type or the exact gene they'd like to track down. For many, the best news about the map may simply be that it's free and public: anyone with enough experience in genetics can learn more about what makes the mind tick through their browsers, and what they find might just lead to new discoveries. Allen Institute completes gene expression map of the human brain in high-resolution 3D originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 20 Sep 2012 00:51:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink NewScientist |  Allen Brain Atlas, Nature (paid access required) | Email this | Commentshttp://www.engadget.com/2012/09/20/allen-institute-completes-gene-expression-map-of-the-human-brain/#comments 9/20/2012 12:40:00 AM Things aren't all Champagne and caviar over at American Airlines, not that you'd know it from the company's latest press release. The Dallas-based air carrier just shared a plan to outfit all of its flight attendants with Samsung Galaxy Notes beginning later this year. The rollout will continue through the middle of 2013, at which point each of the airline's 17,000 cabin crew members will have their very own "tablet," which they'll use to manage flight manifests, track premium passenger meal preferences and monitor weather and gate information in real-time, on WiFi-equipped flights. Eventually, the handsets will also include the flight attendant manual, along with additional features, such as processing for in-flight meal and drink purchases (pending FAA approval). Though the Galaxy Note II will likely be available by the time the program begins, the press release references a 5.3-inch display, which would imply the previous-gen handset. Sadly, this Note of excitement comes alongside news that some 11,000 American mechanics and ground workers could get a pink slip come November -- as frequent air travelers ourselves, we're genuinely sorry to hear that, and we don't want any gadget to overshadow the airline's ongoing troubles and the unfortunate fate of hardworking employees. You can catch that angle at the coverage link below, then read all about the Note program just after the break. Filed under: Cellphones, Transportation American Airlines to hand out Galaxy Note 'tablets' to 17,000 flight attendants (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 Sep 2012 12:40:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink |American Airlines | Email this | Commentshttp://www.engadget.com/2012/09/19/american-airlines-galaxy-note/#comments 9/20/2012 10:19:00 AM These days, just about every Apple product is defined by a non-removable battery. It's with no small hint of irony, then, that Apple just received a US patent for a universal removable battery system. As proposed, the technique would let Apple cut batteries from lithium-polymer or similar materials into commonly sized packs that could then be swapped between devices, providing all the benefits of removable, rechargeable batteries with a longer lifespan than an old set of AAs. Batteries could have serviceable cores for when they finally give up the ghost, and computers could even alternate between charging the batteries (when plugged in) or using them to extend the runtime of MacBooks. We'd recommend against basing any purchasing strategy around Apple's filing, though. The Cupertino team originally applied for the patent in 2010, and in turn broke out the technology from a patent it had filed in 2007 -- there's no guarantees Apple is still interested in replacing those disposables, let alone any sealed-in batteries. That won't stop us from yearning for the day when a Magic Mouse lasts for more than a week of heavy use. Filed under: Peripherals Apple gets patent for universal batteries, edges closer to long-lasting wireless peripherals originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 Sep 2012 22:19:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink |USPTO | Email this | Commentshttp://www.engadget.com/2012/09/19/apple-gets-patent-for-universal-batteries/#comments 9/20/2012 1:27:00 AM Looks like one major software update wasn't enough, as Apple is following its push of iOS 6 with OS X 10.8.2. Weighing in at 697.54MB, it's a pretty substantial update for Mountain Lion users, with that long-awaited Facebook integration chief among the changes. As Twitter presently operates within the OS, Facebook will now too enjoy single sign-on simplicity, and all of OS X's sharing portals will now include Facebook as an option. You'll get Facebook notifications in Notification Center, and you can share Game Center scores with your Facebook pals. It's also being reported that this build restores laptop battery life levels to those seen with Lion. Other new features include the addition of Power Nap for the Late 2010 MacBook Air, a few iMessage tweaks (iMessages sent to your phone number will now appear on your Mac), a new shared Reminders list and the ability to receive FaceTime calls initially sent to your phone number. Passbook users will also enjoy the newfangled ability to add passes right from Safari and Mail, and Dictation now understands Mandarin, Cantonese, Spanish, Korean, Canadian English (!), Canadian French and Italian. We're installing the update now, and you can peek the full changelog after the break. Feel free to toss your post-install impressions in comments as well. Filed under: Desktops Apple releases OS X 10.8.2 update for Mountain Lion: Facebook integration, iMessage fixes and more originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 Sep 2012 13:27:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink |Apple | Email this | Commentshttp://www.engadget.com/2012/09/19/apple-os-x-10-8-2-update-download-facebook-changelog-available/#comments 9/20/2012 6:43:00 AM If you didn't already know that iOS 6 was out in the wild, Apple just delivered a torrent of mobile app updates to make it perfectly clear. Virtually every app that isn't preloaded now has explicit iOS 6 support to keep it running smoothly, and some of the upgrades are thankfully more than just skin-deep compatibility tweaks. Among the highlights are Podcasts' new subscription list syncing through iCloud, ringtone creation with GarageBand and iPhoto support for 36.5-megapixel image editing on the latest devices -- you know, for that moment you need to tweak Nikon D800 photos on an iPhone 5. We're including direct links to a few of the juicier updates, but we'd recommend checking AppleInsider's comprehensive list to see everything that you're missing. Filed under: Cellphones, Tablets Apple updates nearly every app for iOS 6, sneaks in key GarageBand, iPhoto and Podcasts updates originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 Sep 2012 18:43:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. PermalinkAppleInsider | App Store (GarageBand), (iPhoto), (Podcasts) | Email this | Commentshttp://www.engadget.com/2012/09/19/apple-updates-nearly-every-app-for-ios-6-sneaks-in-key-updates/#comments 9/20/2012 3:28:00 AM Remember how the BBC was asking Adobe to keep Flash for Android on life support for a short while? The broadcaster just removed any doubts as to why with the launch of BBC Media Player, its solution for that day when the mobile plugin is well and truly buried. Starting with iPlayer on the mobile web and moving on to both radio as well as an updated version of the Android app due next week, the BBC will be using close Flash cousin Adobe AIR for streaming playback on Android phones and tablets. It can't quit Flash technology cold turkey given the sheer number of devices still running Gingerbread or earlier, which rules out HTTP Live Streaming for now. Media Player isn't necessarily the most elegant solution -- we're seeing reports of sub-par video and other hiccups -- but it will keep those episodes of Doctor Who rolling on most Android hardware and let the BBC push out updates that address as many of the Google-inclined as possible. Filed under: Cellphones, Tablets, Mobile BBC Media Player to give Android users their iPlayer fix in a mostly Flashless world originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 Sep 2012 15:28:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink |BBC | Email this | Commentshttp://www.engadget.com/2012/09/19/bbc-media-player-to-give-android-users-their-iplayer-fix/#comments 9/20/2012 3:42:00 AM CompactFlash Association announces 600MB/sec CFast2.0 spec, SanDisk developing cards originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 Sep 2012 15:42:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | | Email this | Commentshttp://www.engadget.com/2012/09/19/compactflash-association-announces-600mb-sec-cfast2-0-spec-sand/#comments 9/20/2012 1:39:00 AM The National Optical Astronomy Observatory (NOAO) puts it into perspective right away: "Eight billion years ago, rays of light from distant galaxies began their long journey to Earth." It's important to hold that fact in mind, as we marvel at the first images from deep in the belly of our universe to arrive from the Chile-based Dark Energy Camera (DECam). As that name might suggest, peering at remote galaxies for purely visual gratification isn't the camera's primary purpose. The result of eight years of planning and hard work, involving engineers and scientists from three continents, the DECam is mounted on the Victor M. Blanco Telescope at the Cerro Tololo Inter-American Observatory in Chile. Sitting atop a 7,200-foot mountain, the camera is part of the Dark Energy Survey, which intends to gather information on over 300 million galaxies. The goal is to better understand dark energy -- a concept that represents our best explanation for why the universe's rate of expansion is speeding up, rather than slowing due to gravity. Gaze past the break for the background on the project. Continue reading DECam: Gazing deep into the final frontier in search of dark energy DECam: Gazing deep into the final frontier in search of dark energy originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 Sep 2012 13:39:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink |NOAO, Fermilab | Email this | Commentshttp://www.engadget.com/2012/09/19/decam-gazing-deep-into-the-final-frontier/#comments 9/20/2012 2:18:00 AM After debuting them on iPad and Android, DirecTV has finally brought "Everywhere" features to the iPhone. That includes video on demand access to a number of shows and movies no matter where you are, as well as the in-home only live TV streaming feature previously seen on the iPad (but not on Android, yet.) DirecTV has also added its own exclusive Audience Network to the list of streaming channels which should add additional content to watch. The one drawback? Like many other TV provider apps, we're hearing this one isn't meant to work on jailbroken devices and after users update it won't even open, cutting off other features like DVR scheduling. If that's not a problem, grab version 2.2 at the source link below and input your DirecTV account info to get started. Filed under: Cellphones, Home Entertainment, HD, Mobile DirecTV Everywhere VOD and live TV streaming finally arrives on the iPhone originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 Sep 2012 14:18:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink |iTunes | Email this | Commentshttp://www.engadget.com/2012/09/19/directv-everywhere-iphone/#comments 9/20/2012 6:12:00 AM While Google Maps may have found itself on the outside looking in on the just-released iOS 6, it's got a fresh update for Android devices that makes sure any locations you've searched are right at your fingertips. Rolling out now in Google Play, it includes results from your search and directions history (whether on your phone or on a PC that you were logged in to) whenever you start a new search, and in the search or directions tab under My Places. The other tweak noted in the changelog is the ability to zoom with just one finger -- double tap the map then hold down your finger and slide. There's no word specifically on what's in store for Apple's hardware but the final line of the blog post mentions improving the Google Maps experience across all devices -- draw your own conclusions from that. Filed under: Cellphones, Tablets, Software, Mobile Google Maps for Android update brings your full location search history to handhelds originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 Sep 2012 18:12:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink |Google Lat-Long Blog, Google Play | Email this | Commentshttp://www.engadget.com/2012/09/19/google-maps-for-android-update-brings-your-full-location-search/#comments 9/20/2012 5:36:00 AM Earlier today we had a nice sit-down with Kobo, where we got some quality hands-on time with the company's Arc Android tablet. As you can imagine, that was the marquee product on display, but we also had the chance to handle the outfit's newest e-readers: the Glo ComfortLight, which has built-in frontlighting, and the Mini, which is exactly what it sounds like. Both will be available October 1st, with the 6-inch Glo going for $129 and the 5-inch Mini priced at $79. Neither will have ads, which might be one of the biggest differentiators between these and some of Amazon's offerings. If you're short on time, we've got some hands-on photos below, but if you've got a few minutes to spare, a walk-through video awaits after the break. Continue reading Hands-on with Kobo's Glo and Mini e-readers (video) Hands-on with Kobo's Glo and Mini e-readers (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 Sep 2012 17:36:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | | Email this | Commentshttp://www.engadget.com/2012/09/19/hands-on-with-kobos-glo-and-mini-e-readers-video/#comments 9/20/2012 12:01:00 PM Remember the Pavilion m6? It was one of many, many lightweight laptops HP announced last spring. To recap, it didn't technically fit Intel's Ultrabook specifications, but it was still quite thin, and offered features not normally found on ultraportables -- things like discrete graphics and a subwoofer. In any case, HP is expanding that particular line: it just announced the Envy m4, a 14-inch companion to the 15-inch m6 that went on sale this summer. Like the m6, it has an aluminum design, along with Beats Audio and a subwoofer. Spec-wise, it'll be offered with Core i3 and i5 processors, up to 8GB of RAM and either a solid-state drive or up to 1TB of HDD storage. The display resolution is fixed at 1,366 x 768 -- typical for mid-range laptops. (Note: only one configuration will be available in the US, though additional variants will be offered in other countries.) Intel Wireless Display is standard, and the battery promises up to eight hours of runtime. It also has a fingerprint reader, which you can use with HP's SimplePass technology to log into the PC and as well as websites. Meanwhile, HP added two models to its growing line of Sleekbooks (read: thin-and-light laptops that for whatever reason don't meet Intel's Ultrabook requirements). These new models include the Pavilion Sleekbook 14 and 15, which look like the company's entry-level G series, but are significantly trimmer. The laptops, available in black and red, will be offered with Ivy Bridge chips, optional discrete graphics, 1080p displays, up to 8GB of RAM and up to 1TB of HDD storage. In both cases, the battery life is said to max out at six hours -- less than the m4 or most Ultrabooks, but still decent. Last thing -- and this really is apropos of nothing -- HP also mentioned in its press release that the existing 11-inch Pavilion dm1 will be offered with an HSPA+ radio capable of running on T-Mobile's network. HP says it will offer up to 200MB of free data per month, for two years. That deal is effective next month, on October 26th. The Envy m4 will start at $900 while the Pavilion Sleekbook 14 and 15 will go for $500 and $560, respectively. These, too, will arrive on the 26th, the day Windows 8 launches. For now help yourself to photos galore past the break. Continue reading HP announces Envy m4 thin-and-light, along with two slimmed-down Sleekbooks Filed under: Laptops HP announces Envy m4 thin-and-light, along with two slimmed-down Sleekbooks originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 20 Sep 2012 00:01:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | | Email this | Commentshttp://www.engadget.com/2012/09/20/hp-envy-m4-pavilion-sleekbook14-sleekbook-15/#comments 9/20/2012 12:01:00 PM Buried in its press release announcing new laptops, desktops, monitors and accessories, HP made an interesting admission: it's not done yet. At the tail end of the PR, even after it broke down the various prices and shipping dates, the company added: "An enterprise-ready tablet will be announced soon." No hint at the specs, though we have to wonder if it's the rumored Windows 8-powered "Slate 8" tablet we've heard about in the rumor mill. And now that HP has announced most of its fall products, we're wondering if that slate is actually the same tablet that made an appearance in those ads that ran during the Olympics this summer -- after all, HP's yet to acknowledge the thing with an official name. We suppose we'll find out soon, whenever that is. Continue reading HP planning to launch an enterprise-friendly tablet 'soon' Filed under: Tablets HP planning to launch an enterprise-friendly tablet 'soon' originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 20 Sep 2012 00:01:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | | Email this | Commentshttp://www.engadget.com/2012/09/20/hp-planning-to-launch-an-enterprise-friendly-tablet-soon/#comments 9/20/2012 12:01:00 PM If you've been waiting for some spankin' new designs for HP's business machines, we hate to disappoint you, but we've only got a spec bump to report here. The company just announced that it's freshening up its ProBook 4445s, 4446s and 4545s with AMD's newish Trinity-series APUs. While it was at it, the outfit also announced the Compaq Pro 6305 desktop, which is also powered by AMD's A-Series chips (the A10, A8, A6 and A4, to be exact). The refreshed ProBook 4545s is available now, starting at $499. (The 4445s and 4446s will only be available in Japan and other Asia-Pacific countries.) Meanwhile, the Compaq Pro 6305 desktop lands October 8th, starting at $539 with both Windows 7 and Win 8 configurations available. Continue reading HP refreshes four of its business PCs with AMD Trinity chips Filed under: Desktops, Laptops HP refreshes four of its business PCs with AMD Trinity chips originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 20 Sep 2012 00:01:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | | Email this | Commentshttp://www.engadget.com/2012/09/20/hp-refreshes-four-of-its-business-pcs-with-amd-trinity-chips/#comments 9/20/2012 12:01:00 PM It was just a few months ago that HP refreshed its Envy Phoenix h9 desktop tower with Ivy Bridge processors, and now it's gone back to the drawing board to re-tool the design itself. In its latest incarnation, it has an "armor-plated" design and toolless hard disk bays that can support up to three drives. HP says it also fine-tuned the cable dressing to improve airflow and cooling performance. As ever, the machine will be offered with third-generation Intel Core processors and your choice of NVIDIA or AMD graphics. Solid-state drives are also an option. Curious? You'll have to wait until the Windows 8 launch on October 28th to get one. An odd move, if you ask us, since the h9 isn't a Win 8-optimized system, and the changes here appear to be purely hardware-related. HP retools its Envy Phoenix h9 desktop, says the new version will go on sale October 26th originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 20 Sep 2012 00:01:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | | Email this | Commentshttp://www.engadget.com/2012/09/20/hp-envy-phoenix-h9-refresh/#comments 9/20/2012 12:01:00 PM In addition to unveiling all those laptops, HP just announced a boatload of peripherals. Of the bunch, the most compelling might be the NFC-enabled Touch to Pair Mouse, which, as the name suggests, can be paired with another device simply through tapping. (Good thing lots of computers currently have NFC, right?) If, by chance, you don't have NFC on your laptop -- and you probably don't -- the mouse will function just fine as a regular old Bluetooth device. Look for it in November for $39. Elsewhere on the wireless mouse front, HP announced the X6000 (pictured), which has four-way tilt scrolling and can be used on most surfaces, including glass. That arrives this month for $59. Finally, if your tastes are a bit simpler, there's also the Wireless Mouse X4500 and X5500, which will be available this month for $29 and $39, respectively. Beyond mice, HP also trotted out the $29 Wireless Classic Desktop keyboard, along with the $49 Wireless Elite v2. For audio lovers, there's the HP Portable Bluetooth Speaker, which will go on sale next month for a cool $79. Eighty bucks (or thereabouts) will also get you a 90W universal power adapter that claims to be compatible with most notebooks. It also has a built-in USB port, allowing you to charge a mobile device at the same time. Rounding out the list is the Webcam HD 4310, an $89 shooter capable of 1080p video, autofocus, autoexposure and three-way video calling. All that in more digestible form in the PR after the break. Continue reading HP unveils first NFC-enabled mouse, various other PC accessories Filed under: Peripherals HP unveils first NFC-enabled mouse, various other PC accessories originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 20 Sep 2012 00:01:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | | Email this | Commentshttp://www.engadget.com/2012/09/20/hp-unveils-first-nfc-enabled-mouse-other-pc-accessories/#comments 9/20/2012 12:01:00 PM It wouldn't be a seasonal HP product launch without dozens of PCs and at least one monitor, right? This go-round, the company is launching the x2401, a 24-inch, 1080p display with a slim, 11mm-thick frame. Though the last two monitors we saw from HP were IPS, this one makes use of MVA technology to help ensure wide viewing angles. If you're looking to add a display to your setup, this one has a DisplayPort socket and HDMI-in. (You can also mount it to the wall, if that's your bag.) Expect it to arrive on November 7th for $249. Additionally, HP will sell a business-oriented version, the L2401x, the main difference being that the commercial version has a three-year warranty, instead of one. Not bad, considering the business version costs only ten bucks more. Continue reading HP's 24-inch x2401 monitor is just 11mm thick, arrives in November for $249 Filed under: Displays HP's 24-inch x2401 monitor is just 11mm thick, arrives in November for $249 originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 20 Sep 2012 00:01:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | | Email this | Commentshttp://www.engadget.com/2012/09/20/hps-24-inch-x2401-monitor-LX2401/#comments 9/20/2012 8:03:00 AM HTC and Microsoft have been cautious about what they'll let us see of the software on the Windows Phone 8X and its 8S counterpart. Apparently, they don't have any such compunctions about leaving the phones' naked components hanging in the breeze. Along with outlining the essentialist, Metro-inspired philosophy behind the Windows Phone 8 devices' design, HTC's new behind-the-scenes video (after the break) shows the internals without that extra-colorful shell getting in the way. The exposé is more about the sheer demand for customized hardware to match those distinctive enclosures than anything too scandalous -- that tapered shape requires some finessing on the inside, we're told. Whatever you think of HTC's guided tour, the company has at least learned its lesson and decided against including any unexpected prototypes this time around. Continue reading HTC shows design work for Windows Phone 8X and 8S, strips them bare (video) Filed under: Cellphones, Mobile HTC shows design work for Windows Phone 8X and 8S, strips them bare (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 Sep 2012 20:03:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink |HTC Blog | Email this | Commentshttp://www.engadget.com/2012/09/19/htc-shows-design-work-for-windows-phone-8x-and-8s-strips-them-bare/#comments 9/20/2012 2:55:00 AM HTC's unveiled a pair of Windows Phone 8 devices that seem destined to square off against Nokia's similarly polycarbonated handsets. You may not be able to easily pick 'em out of a crowd, but there's plenty of differences on the inside, and let's be frank, that's where it counts. We've pitted the Windows Phone 8 flagships from HTC, Samsung and Nokia against each other to see which one's going to be getting your cash when it comes to renewal time, and Round One begins just as soon as you jump past the break... ding, ding, ding. Continue reading HTC's Windows Phone 8X vs. the competition: fight! Filed under: Cellphones, Software, Mobile HTC's Windows Phone 8X vs. the competition: fight! originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 Sep 2012 14:55:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | | Email this | Commentshttp://www.engadget.com/2012/09/19/windows-phone-8-fight/#comments 9/20/2012 12:50:00 AM Cupertino's newest hardware may have us purring, but Apple hasn't left those of us with existing hardware out in the cold. iOS 6 should be appearing as an available update right now, or at least very shortly -- depending on how taxed those servers get. It'll be compatible with every iPhone since the 3GS, iPod touch 4G / 5G and this-and-last-year's vintage of the iPad. Given the inexorable march of technology, some of the newer features won't work on the older devices, but you can use our compatability checker to determine what new things you'll be able to do in the next few hours. We've had notes from our tipsters that the update is arriving a few minutes early (with photographic proof above), but so far we've had nothing here. [Thanks, Jim] Filed under: Cellphones, Software, Mobile iOS 6 now available to download for iPhone, iPad and iPod touch (update: full changelog) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 Sep 2012 12:50:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink |Apple | Email this | Commentshttp://www.engadget.com/2012/09/19/ios-6-now-available/#comments 9/20/2012 1:24:00 AM As often as companies love to toy with flexible displays, we're seldom told how we'd control that newfound freedom. Are we supposed to make e-paper cranes? Credit LG for some forward thinking -- it's just receiving a US patent for a 2008-era user interface invention that would use a bending screen to its advantage. The implementation includes two displays, one of which flexes while the other accepts touch; bend or fold the first display, and the touchscreen changes to suit the context. Having two closely linked displays would also let the panels run either in unity or independently. Suffice it to say that the technology is unlikely to roll out as-is on a smartphone, if ever: LG's attention has swung towards having one big touchscreen as of late. However, the interface does give the Korean firm a place to start if it develops devices to match its new flexible batteries. Filed under: Cellphones, Displays, Mobile LG gets patent for mobile UI that reacts to flexible displays, encourages origami originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 Sep 2012 13:24:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink |USPTO | Email this | Commentshttp://www.engadget.com/2012/09/19/lg-gets-patent-for-mobile-ui-that-reacts-to-flexible-displays/#comments 9/20/2012 5:57:00 AM After the news-filled event MakerBot held, just down the street from the Atlantic Terminal in Brooklyn, we found a fleet of cars ready to ferry us back to Manhattan. The cars weren't there to return the press to their various offices, instead they shuttled us en-masse to the brand new MakerBot Store that opened today in NOHO. The small shop sits on Mulberry St., just half a block north of Houston -- number 298 to be specific. Out front is a small discreet sign that reads "MakerBot." What will really draw people inside is the six-foot tall 3D-printed track that guides giant ball bearings through a maze of curves and spirals in the window. Step inside and the sculpture becomes interactive. You spin a large wheel (also printed) and a magnet slowly moves the orbs up the wall before depositing them at the starting point and sending them hurtling through the multi-track course (video after the break). Almost everything in the shop, down to the posts and locks on the display cases, is also printed out on the company's flagship product, the Replicator 2. In addition to buying the printers and compatible spools of plastic, you can also pick up trinkets created with them, such as the MixTape. If you want a less expensive example of the Replicator's wares, there's a gumball-style vending machine that dispenses toys when you insert a $5 token and give the knob a satisfying twist. For more, check out the gallery below.
Edgar Alvarez contributed to this report. Continue reading MakerBot Store tour (video) Filed under: Misc MakerBot Store tour (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 Sep 2012 17:57:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | | Email this | Commentshttp://www.engadget.com/2012/09/19/makerbot-store-tour/#comments 9/20/2012 3:53:00 AM The Replicator may have just been pushed off this writer's Christmas list. (Note to self: send updated letter to Santa.) But, this isn't a loss for MakerBot Industries, because it's being replaced by the Replicator 2, the newest model of 3D printer from the company. This is a big boy version of its previous devices that were aimed more at tinkerers than serious designers, and that's reflected in the $2,199 price. The build plate is significantly bigger, with the ability to spit out creations that measure 11.2 x 6.1 x 6.0 inches (410 cubic inches). That's a full 37 percent larger than the original Replicator, but the machine itself is the same exact size. The frame is no longer assembled from laser-etched wood, instead there's a powder-coated steel frame with PVC plastic sides to help shield the various moving parts and lend an air of professionalism to the affair. The extruder is designed specifically for use with MakerBot PLA, a new plastic material based on corn, that Bri Pettis claims wont expand when exposed to the heat -- which means it wont contract when it cools, leading to smoother printed objects and less cracking. The new printer has a resolution of 100 microns, by comparison, the original Replicator had a layer resolution of 270 microns. Now each layer of plastic is as thin as a sheet of copy paper, resulting in smooth printed prototypes.
In a departure from previous models, the Replicator 2 is shipped fully assembled. You need only lift it out of the box and plug it in to get started. And one of our biggest complaints about the setup process, leveling the build plate, has been addressed. The new model now has a simplified three-point leveling system, what should eliminate some of the opportunity for error in the four-point system of its predecessor. The Replicator 2 even comes in an experimental dual-extrusion model for those that like life on the cutting edge, called the Replicator 2X, that retails for $2,799. To run all this there's a new software tool, called MakerWare that greatly simplifies the act of printing objects. You can even drag and drop multiple models into a virtual build platform, scale them and tweak them (either independently or simultaneously) before sending them to the Replicator 2. Perhaps, most interesting of todays announcements is the MakerBot Store -- an actual physical shop -- in Edgar Alvarez contributed to this report. Filed under: Misc MakerBot unveils Replicator 2, 2X and launches retail store, we go eyes-on originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 Sep 2012 15:53:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | | Email this | Commentshttp://www.engadget.com/2012/09/19/makerbot-unveils-replicator-2/#comments 9/20/2012 2:40:00 AM Microsoft brought Office for Mac 2011 up to speed with Mountain Lion this summer, and it's now back with another update that finally adds support for the MacBook Pro's Retina display. That comes courtesy of version 14.2.4 of the software suite, and that added sharpness naturally extends across Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook. You can find the update waiting for you in the Microsoft AutoUpdate tool if you haven't been prompted to download it already. Filed under: Software Microsoft brings Retina display support to Office for Mac originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 Sep 2012 14:40:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink |Microsoft | Email this | Commentshttp://www.engadget.com/2012/09/19/microsoft-brings-retina-display-support-to-office-for-mac/#comments 9/20/2012 4:00:00 AM Over the summer, Microsoft took a break from showing off Windows 8 hybrids and turned its attention to unleashing a bunch of portable mice and keyboards. Turns out, Redmond wasn't quite done refreshing its accessories collection: the company just announced the Sculpt Comfort Keyboard, a full-size desktop model meant to complement all those mobile products announced back in July. Like some of Microsoft's older keyboards, it makes use of the company's ergonomically friendly Comfort Curve layout. In this case, though, there's a split space bar, whose left end can be programmed as a backspace key (Microsoft's rationale is that your fingers are constantly near the space bar anyway). Additionally, there's a padded palm rest, which you can detach if for some reason the extra cushioning isn't doing anything for your wrists. And, being a Microsoft-made keyboard, you'll find Windows hotkeys -- specifically, keys that correspond to new features in Win 8, like the Charm Bar. Speaking of the sort, you can use the keyboard with Windows 7, 8 and Vista, meaning those of you still using XP are out of luck. It will be available "soon," according to Microsoft, at which point it'll sell for $60. Filed under: Peripherals Microsoft intros Sculpt Comfort Keyboard, left end of the space bar can be used as a backspace key originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 Sep 2012 16:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | | Email this | Commentshttp://www.engadget.com/2012/09/19/microsoft-sculpt-comfort-keyboard/#comments 9/20/2012 7:22:00 AM It's been nearly two months since Google quietly posted that initial batch of Jelly Bean images for its ever-growing family of Nexus handsets. And while today a few members of the pack are being left out, those with a Nexus S (save for the Korean version) or its 4G flavor can now grab the refreshed Android 4.1.1 images (JRO03L, JRO03R) straight from Mountain View's developer site. You'll find all the necessary download links at the source below, and you can be sure we'll let you know as soon as the rest become available. Filed under: Cellphones, Software, Mobile New Android Jelly Bean factory images now available for Nexus S models originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 Sep 2012 19:22:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. PermalinkAndroid Police | Google (Developers) | Email this | Commentshttp://www.engadget.com/2012/09/19/new-android-jelly-bean-images-nexus-s/#comments 9/20/2012 1:52:00 AM It was going to happen eventually, but we're big fans of the "better soon than later" mentality. The global edition of Nokia's Windows Phone 8 flagship, the Lumia 920, has been given the thumbs-up from the FCC. The device, which supports five LTE bands used outside of the US and zero within, has already been WiFi-certified (the certification papers actually specify this model, the RM-821, as the Lumia 920.1, which leads us to assume the AT&T-friendly version might be the 920.2). We're quite certain this won't be widely available stateside -- and certainly not through a major national carrier -- so we'll remain on the hunt for another Lumia 920 to pass through the federal halls sometime soon. Filed under: Cellphones, Wireless, Mobile Nokia Lumia 920 gets the FCC nod originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 Sep 2012 13:52:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink |FCC | Email this | Commentshttp://www.engadget.com/2012/09/19/nokia-lumia-920-fcc/#comments 9/20/2012 1:55:00 PM Remember that disassembly friendly, unnamed Xbox 360 arcade stick Razer trotted out at TGS last year? It's back, and while it hasn't gained any traction in the moniker category, it's received a few notable hardware tweaks. Razer's TGS team told us the stick has been through a total of thirteen revisions since it entered closed beta last year, and is now entering its final beta before production. Leveraging feedback from over 200 enthusiasts, Razer has made a number of tweaks to the controller, including alternative joystick tops, an included miniature screwdriver and a honeycomb screw-mount bottom so modders can install custom PCBs. The new unit also wears an acrylic cover, allowing perspective buyers to swap Razer's default artwork for a custom inlay. Just like last year, this unit features Sanwa Denshi components -- but picky players will be able to swap them out for their preferred parts without fear of voiding their warranty. Razer couldn't tell us how long the final beta phase would last, and only said that the stick would be released once it was "perfect." Our host did hazard a guess, however, that it would be out by early next year. Want to see more? Relive our TGS booth visit after the break. Filed under: Gaming, Peripherals Razer's customizable fight stick returns to TGS for final beta, is still nameless (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 20 Sep 2012 01:55:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | | Email this | Commentshttp://www.engadget.com/2012/09/20/razer-fight-stick-returns-to-tgs-for-final-beta/#comments 9/20/2012 10:58:00 AM After breaking from cover at yesterday's pre-TGS presser, the two new PlayStation Vita color variants have gotten cozy at the Sony booth on the show floor. Unlike the quick photo opp that we snagged a few hours ago, we were able to actually fondle the "sapphire blue" model in all its metallic-hued glory. Speaking of shiny exteriors, both the blue and red schemes feature a bit of sparkle along with the slathering of new paint. The duo look quite glittery, giving the two some added flair over the regular ol' black and white versions in addition to the color change. The hardware is the same as the existing models and the key difference is strictly visual. As you can see in the gallery below, the backsides of these Vitas is also covered with the same shimmering color as their facades. The pair will arrive in Japan in November and we're keeping a close watch on availability elsewhere. Continue reading Sony PlayStation Vita Sapphire Blue hands-on (video) Filed under: Gaming Sony PlayStation Vita Sapphire Blue hands-on (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 Sep 2012 22:58:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | | Email this | Commentshttp://www.engadget.com/2012/09/19/sony-playstation-vita-sapphire-blue-hands-on/#comments 9/20/2012 1:12:00 AM We witnessed the Sony Xperia T make its way through the FCC approval process a few days ago, but there was still something drastically missing: compatibility with AT&T LTE. But as some images published by UK retailer Phones4U attested to, we figured it was only a matter of time. Now that time has come, as the FCC pushed through the Xperia Mint Amy LT30at (the global Xperia T is the Mint Rita LT30p, if you're keeping track) today. Not only does the Amy sport the requisite AT&T-friendly bands (4 and 17, with support for bands 2 and 5 as well), some of the docs specifically call this device out as the AT&T version. We've always admired Sony's bluntness around FCC docs when other manufacturers attempt to hide as much information as possible. To do some digging of your own, have a look-see at the source link. Filed under: Cellphones, Wireless, Mobile Sony Xperia T for AT&T achieves FCC victory originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 Sep 2012 13:12:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink |FCC | Email this | Commentshttp://www.engadget.com/2012/09/19/sony-xperia-t-att-fcc/#comments 9/20/2012 1:58:00 AM There's a big frame in Polaroid's Photokina booth -- a giant, blown up version of the iconic white border that graced the company's instant photos for so many decades, beckoning passersby to stand behind it and pose, like muscle man cutouts at a traveling carnival. Directly to its right, attendees stand around a row of product from the company aimed at recapturing some of the nostalgia inherent in the Polaroid name. It's nothing compared to the gathering at a booth 20-or-so feet across the room, where international guests stand fascinated by the Instant Lab, an accordion-style gizmo that transforms iPhone images into instant photos, utilizing film produced at the last remaining Polaroid factory, since purchased by a company fittingly named "Impossible." The early 21st century is a strange time to be the head of a company like Polaroid, standing at a bit of a crossroads between new and old technologies, attempting to harness the cache (and nostalgia) that comes with 75 years of history, while keeping up with the latest trends in digital imaging and slates. We sat down with the company's CEO Scott Hardy to discuss precisely what it means to be Polaroid in 2012, where the company goes from here and how much looking back is necessary to keep it moving ahead. Continue reading The Engadget Interview: Polaroid CEO Scott Hardy (video) The Engadget Interview: Polaroid CEO Scott Hardy (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 Sep 2012 13:58:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | | Email this | Commentshttp://www.engadget.com/2012/09/19/the-engadget-interview-polaroid-ceo-scott-hardy-video/#comments 9/20/2012 6:00:00 AM Each week Joshua Fruhlinger contributes This is the Modem World, a column dedicated to exploring the culture of consumer technology. I think I figured out why we love to argue about technology. It came to me via the wisdom of my mom, not surprisingly. It started last Sunday, when I was at her house to mooch some lunch while helping her get photos off of her digital camera and onto a sharing site so she could, ahem, share them. She was complaining that younger generations won't have photo albums, those lovely, physical relics of days gone by that mother and son can pore over and share memories. "But, we'll have Facebook Timelines," I replied, sheepishly. She glared. I glared back. Continue reading This is the Modem World: Why we fight This is the Modem World: Why we fight originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 Sep 2012 18:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | | Email this | Commentshttp://www.engadget.com/2012/09/19/why-we-fight/#comments 9/20/2012 2:36:00 AM Tobii's eye tracking Gaze UI hasn't been especially portable so far, but we'll soon see that change through a new collaboration involving Fujitsu and NTT DoCoMo. The trio plan to reveal the ibeam, an Android tablet with Tobii's smaller IS20 (formerly the IS-2) detector taking input just through glances. Together, the partners want to show that an eye-driven interface can be more reactive than plain old multi-touch: think turning a page in an e-book while you're holding on to a subway car strap. We're only getting a brief preview as of today, but we're teased with the prospect of a full look at NTT DoCoMo's CEATEC booth in early October. Whether or not ibeam leads to more than a well-that's-nice prototype, though, is still up in the air. Filed under: Tablets Tobii, Fujitsu and NTT DoCoMo partner on eye tracking ibeam tablet, promise a peek in October originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 Sep 2012 14:36:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink |NTT DoCoMo (translated) | Email this | Commentshttp://www.engadget.com/2012/09/19/tobii-fujitsu-and-ntt-docomo-partner-on-eye-tracking-ibeam-tablet/#comments 9/20/2012 3:13:00 AM Toshiba might have missed the summer vacationers by just a bit, but with the beautiful fall season just around the corner in the US, it's that period to introduce a new Camileo to the group. This time out it's the the follow-up to the company's rather colorful BW10 from last year. Enter the adequately named BW20. Aside from nabbing a numerical bump on its moniker, the BW20 brings the same 1080p video recording found on its predecessor, plus improved waterproof capabilities that now allow the camcorder to handle up to 16 feet below water. Perhaps, the most interesting fact here is the BW20's new price tag, which is now $130 -- 20 bucks less than the BW10. You can snag one for yourself now at the source link below; in the meantime, there's an appealing press shot gallery for your viewing pleasure down below. Continue reading Toshiba intros Camileo BW20 waterproof camcorder, available now for $130 Filed under: Cameras Toshiba intros Camileo BW20 waterproof camcorder, available now for $130 originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 Sep 2012 15:13:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink |Toshiba | Email this | Commentshttp://www.engadget.com/2012/09/19/toshiba-camileo-bw20-waterproof-camcorder/#comments 9/20/2012 11:25:00 AM Nintendo may be MIA at TGS this year (as usual), but that hasn't stopped Turtle Beach -- it brought a pair of Wii U headsets to the show anyway. We dropped by the outfit's booth to take a peek, finding seemingly empty boxes in lieu of product. Turns out they weren't so empty -- the Ear Force N11 and NLa headsets are so lightweight, we didn't even notice they were there. After a brief unboxing, this editor wrapped each set around his head, finding the headband tension of both the over-ear N11 and the on-ear NLa to be just as light as the accessories themselves, squeezing my skull with only the gentlest of pressure. The sets' earmuffs seemed built for comfort as well, soft, and not the least bit irritating. Staff on hand told us that the internals weren't quite final, but sound quality aside, we could easily see settling in with either of these products for a long, comfortable gaming session. Both sets arrive later this year -- $35 for the white, on-ear Ear Force NLa cans, and $50 for its black over-ear cousin. See our impressions for yourself in the video after the break. Continue reading Turtle Beach Ear Force NLa and N11 stereo Wii U headsets hands-on (video) Filed under: Gaming, Peripherals, Portable Audio/Video Turtle Beach Ear Force NLa and N11 stereo Wii U headsets hands-on (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 Sep 2012 23:25:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | | Email this | Commentshttp://www.engadget.com/2012/09/19/turtle-beach-ear-force-nla-n11-hands-on/#comments 9/20/2012 4:31:00 AM Look, up in the sky. It's a bird, it's a plane -- it's... a lifeguard? Aiming to keep a robotic eye out for distressed swimmers and dangerous marine life, Surf Life Saving Australia will soon deploy flying safety drones across beaches in Queensland, Australia. Starting off on a trial basis, the unmanned bots have a wingspan of one meter (about three feet) and will feature detachable safety buoys and alert sirens. While it could be the next thing in oceanside safety, we'd image that some folks won't be too fond of being watched sans any say in the matter. That said, we'd be remiss not to mention to that SLS head Brett Williamson frankly stated to ABC that "at the end of the day this is about public safety." Big brother conspiracy aside, we're sure some folks could be swayed if these bad boys play Flight of the Valkyries while in formation. [Image credit: Kim Powell] Filed under: Science UAV Lifeguards to patrol Australian beaches, Hasselhoff given notice originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 Sep 2012 16:31:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. PermalinkGizmodo | ABC | Email this | Commentshttp://www.engadget.com/2012/09/19/uav-lifeguards-to-patrol-australian-beaches/#comments 9/20/2012 5:00:00 AM Unity Engine is best known for supporting mobile and digital games, but Unity Technologies CEO David Helgason sees his company's game development engine as more flexible than that. Nintendo apparently does as well, partnering with Unity on a worldwide licensing agreement that offers first- and third-party developers Pro level engine access to Unity's tools for Wii U development. The partnership also grandfathers in the existing 1.2 million Unity licensees to the Wii U platform, which Helgason tells us is, "extremely easy" to port to -- Unity's calling the partnership an "excellent opportunity" to port existing Unity games from "thousands of studios currently developing mobile and social games." The partnership's effects aren't immediate, however, as Unity Engine's Wii U support won't go live until 2013, which tells us that we won't see any fruit from the collaboration until some point in 2013 at the earliest. When pushed, Helgason wouldn't out any potential games headed to the Wii U via Unity, nor would he offer up names of studios interested in working with Nintendo's next console. It's not hard to imagine big Unity games like Slender and Rochard ending up ported to the Wii U, of course, but it sounds like we'll have to wait a bit longer before we hear which games will benefit from the partnership first. Filed under: Gaming Unity and Nintendo partner to bring Unity Engine, and its 1.2 million devs, to Wii U originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 Sep 2012 17:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | | Email this | Commentshttp://www.engadget.com/2012/09/19/unity-nintendo-partnership/#comments 9/20/2012 1:40:00 PM
Last week Valve showed off an impressive Portal turret replica, but didn't mention where the thing came from, or why. Now it's posted another video of the original unboxing, and mentions that like its earlier TF2 turret, this is a Weta Workshop project complete with motion sensor for tracking. Those flashing lights appear to be just for show, but with both of those monoliths patrolling the lobby we'll probably wait for an invitation before stopping by. Valve's full-scale Portal turret is another treat from Weta Workshop, check out the unboxing video originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 20 Sep 2012 01:40:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink |The Valve Store (Facebook) | Email this | Commentshttp://www.engadget.com/2012/09/20/valves-full-scale-portal-turret-is-another-treat-from-weta-work/#comments 9/20/2012 9:06:00 AM Boost Mobile has a history of recycling Sprint's smartphones, but every now and then it releases a first-run phone of its own. This time around we're looking at the ZTE Warp Sequent, a fitting follow-up to last year's ZTE Warp. Packed to capacity with entry-level goodness, the Warp Sequent features a 4.3-inch qHD display, a 1.4GHz processor, a 5-megapixel rear-facing camera, a 1.3-megapixel front shooter, 768MB of RAM, 4GB of internal storage and Android 4.0. So, if you've got a serious hankering for an off-contract Android running last year's operating system, the ZTE Warp Sequent can be yours for $200. Filed under: Cellphones, Wireless, Mobile ZTE Warp Sequent now available on Boost Mobile for $200 originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 Sep 2012 21:06:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. PermalinkPhone Scoop | Boost Mobile | Email this | Commentshttp://www.engadget.com/2012/09/19/zte-warp-sequent-now-available-on-boost-mobile-for-200/#comments Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. |
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