smartech

Samsung has been very active lately within the media players market, and even when we were thinking we’ve seen them all, the South Korean giant has given us yet another prove  it ain’t going to halt any production. In fact, not only the company has never stopped, it was actually shifting gear and going official with another PMP player, this time the Samsung YP-R1, which is scheduled to go live at the Berlin IFA trade show, next month, for a starting price of $180. Specs wise, the new player will presumably pack a 2.6-inch 400 x 260 touchscreen, while the TouchWiz interface will give you the freedom to enjoy any audio/video files anywhere, and the BeatDJ feature will enable users adding their own voice and sound effects to their favorite songs. Besides that, the 8.9 millimeter-thick player will eventually come with a choice of 8GB or 16GB memory capacities, while Samsung’s DNSe 3.0 digital sound engine is about to be the first to support DivX format. Regretfully, no other details, nor video previews were popping up at this point, so stay tuned for more updates to come.

[via Newswire]

Turns out a staff member named DaHarder, at DAP Review website, was lucky enough to get his hands on one of the few Creative Zii EGG multimedia prototypes available in the market, and kindly shared his recent experience on two short preview videos, that can be found after the break. From his impressions, one can learn the Zii EGG machine (that Creative was just beginning to ship), boasts a 3.5-inch screen display which “compares very favorably” to Sony’s S series OLED, with “shockingly” bright and vibrant colors, while sound quality is described as “the best sounding Creative player” ever heard “and that’s without any EQ/Z-F”. Pretty exciting, isn’t it? Hit the jump to take a look.

Update1: And, in case you were looking for one more evidence that will make you believe Creative’s new prototype machine is rockin’, the good guys at AnythingButiPod have managed to put their hands, as well, on one of those Zii EGG developer editions available at the market, and posted their impressions on a clear and bright video that can be watched after the break, still with Plazma OS only rather than Android.

Update2: It’s not out yet, but Creative has just released a firmware update for the Zii EGG machine, version 92.02, which apparently adds media playback support for SD cards, along with some other cool features, including a neat 3D “clothesline”  add-on for landscape view, and a one of a kind stretching feature for browsing lists, that may influence the way we flip long screens. Hit the break to see the news.

[Via DAP Review]

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The moment you were thinking you’ve seen them all, another company has joined the netbooks pond. This time it’s Comby that officially unveils two mini-laptop models which recently showed up on Amazon for pre-order, as the first version, Coby NMPC1220XPBLK, comes with a 12.1-inch display, together with traditional specs, including Intel’s 1.6GHz Atom N270 processor, 1GB of RAM, and 160GB hard drive, while second device, Coby NBPC1022XPBLK, is a 10-inch machine that literally packs the same traits like its elder brother, only for less the price. And speaking about prices, Coby’s new netbook devices will set you back for $423 and $318, respectively. Too bad they’re only being offered in this fugly Gray hues.

[Via Liliputing]

We’re already used to names like Asus, Toshiba, LG, Lenovo, Samsung and MSI when speaking about netbooks, but hey, look who’s here – it’s Nokia – who tries to make its first steps within this arena, by distinguishing itself from others with a brand new booklet device that packs some very cool specs, including the usual Atom processor, paired with an SD card reader and integrated Bluetooth connection, but also with some unique and advanced features like built-in A-GPS (works with OVI Maps), 3G/HSPA broadband, SIM card slot, an HDMI output, n module WiFi connectivity and 10.1-inch high-def resolution display, to run your entire video depository, sharply. Surprisingly, the 2.75 pounds (1.25 kg) ultra-portable aluminum chassis is claimed to deliver up to 12 hours of battery usage (impressive!), while colors wise, it has Black, White and Turquoise flavors to offer. Unfortunately, there’s no word on price or availability at this early stage, but we promise to update as soon as any relevant info pops out. Until then, hit the break and watch the videos.

Update1: Looks like Nokia’s new Booklet machine will boast a 1.6GHz Intel Atom Z530, paired with a 120GB hard drive and integrated 3G connectivity. Price wise, it will set you back for somewhere around $799, but these are just rumors.

Update2: More details about Nokia’s Booklet 3G netbook device start surfacing up above the ground and shedding more light on this cool and expensive Finnish wonder. Apparently, Nokia’s new mini-laptop device is claimed to be shipped with that 1.6GHz Atom Z530 processor we’ve been talking about earlier, while battery’s longevity was also confirmed – 12 hours working time, with Windows 7 running the entire operation and SIM card slot, added as well, to handle all 3G communication. Other than that, you get to choose from black, ice (white) and azure (blue) colors, all measured at 0.78-inches thick frame that includes 1GB of DDR2 RAM, a 120GB hard drive, a 10.1-inch LCD (1,280 x 720 resolution), integrated GPS navigating system paired with Bluetooth 2.1+EDR, WiFi, a 1.3 megapixel webcam, an SD card reader, three USB 2.0 ports and even an HDMI connection. Release dates are yet to be determined, but with staggering price that stand at €570 ($810), seems like no one will actually be waiting for it outside.

Update3: Nokia’s Italian online store has it now, up for pre-order, but the price is even higher than expected, as the 3G Booklet netbook is listed there for €699 ($1,021 USD), which apparently includes VAT and some other increment. Too bad, and ridiculous if we may add.

Update4: We’re not sure either it’s Greece or some other languages, but the new unboxing video, which can be found right after the break, is definitely one of the first ones that shows Nokia’s new 3G Booklet machine live.

Update5: According to Nokia itself, the Booklet 3G is about to hit O2 Germany in two different flavors, as first one, O2 MyHandy package, is being offered with a one time fee of €249 and a monthly tariff of €20 over the next 24 months, while the second,  O2 wireless deal is €25 a month, including the service price, two years sharp. Not exactly the best bargain around.

Update6: We’re getting there. AT&T is one carrier that will offer Nokia’s highly-priced 3G Booklet for “just” $299 with a 2-year contract and a $60 monthly fee. Someone’s getting affordable, eh?

[Nokia]

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With strong and powerful audio brands like Cowon, iRiver or Samsung, it’s probably hard for unknown Asian companies to get their 15 minutes of fame in such an overcrowded market of dominant media players. But brands and popularity aside, sometimes you pay a lot more for much less and today, when recession keeps knocking our windows (or bank accounts), maybe it’s time for other names to make their debut. And, one of the companies that recently decided to go out with a new player is Atree, that has rolled out the J100 machine, which boasts a 3-inch touchscreen, together with a microSD expansion, DMB digital TV tuner, 4GB of internal flash storage and even an e-dictionary support. Formats wise, the J100 is compatible with MP3, WMA, OGG, FLAC and APE lossless audio files while video playback will presumably run any AVI, DivX, Xvid and WMV footage. Hence, if you happen to visit the southern part of the country and find it attractive having an “anything but iPod” DAP in your pocket, you should start counting 198,000 KRW (about $158), the price it costs.

[Atree]

Yes, we all heard about it time after time on recent weeks, but now it’s for real, as Sony finally makes the PS3 Slim edition official, at GamesCom show, ending up months of rumors and speculation about the new gaming console. And speaking about the slim console, turns out it will be available in the first week of September, worldwide, priced at merely $300 (that’s 300 Euros, or 29,980 Yen) and packing a 120GB HDD along with all the good features we know from the regular PS3. In addition, the slimmer version actually have clickable buttons on front, while sized 32 percent less than previous model. Furthermore, the new edition apparently consumes 34 percent less power and the bundle includes a wireless DualShock3 controller to comfortably rock your gaming experience from your living room sofa, as vertical stand is optional for extra $24. Sony will also release Firmware version 3.0, next to the Slim debut, so you will enjoy animated themes with avatars, some cool UI changes, modified friends lists and even a new status indicator, when running your brand new matte black console for the first time. For more details about the PS3 Slim announcement, the full specs, and some video footage to watch, hit the jump or pass the break.

Update1: Apparently, you won’t be able to play any Playstation 2 games with your new PS3 Slim console, which is a bummer (!) if you think about it, since not having a PS2 backwards compatibility will force everyone get rid of their cool games collection, but this way or another, if you keep searching for some cool advantages inside the latest Slim edition, then mind you this hot box will presumably support Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio bit-streaming through your fancy hi-fi receiver. Huzzah!

Update2: Looks like Sony’s new PS3 Slim console is officially up and available across US retailers like Best Buys and GameStops (earlier than expected) for $299, so you can go down to your local store and get it NOW. Meanwhile, If you happen to have it at your disposal, already, and curious to see the inside parts of the box, hit the break and take a look, both at the image (one of few) and video footage that iFixit group has recently published.

Update3: A 250GB PS3 Final Fantasy XIII edition officially announced, set to be released in Japan somewhere around December for ¥41,600 Yen. Image is right after the break.

Update4: And moments after, Amazon.co.uk has listed a 250GB version as well, but this time you’ll have to settle with the ordinary black. Pre-order price is set for £285 ($455) and delivery is scheduled to October 1st.

Update5: Apparently, the 250GB Playstation Slim version is about to hit US shelves on November 3rd for $349.99, so you have only couple of weeks to get yourself this extra capacity-size edition.

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Korean giant LG announces another X-Note netbook edition, this time it’s the Mini X130, which apparently looks pretty much similar to previous versions, only with a 9-cell battery that can deliver up to 12 hours of working hours and up to 7 and a half hours of video playback – very cool, isn’t it? And while price tag stands on 789,000 Won ($639), you might consider getting one either in Black, White, or Pink colors, the company offers. Battery aside, the new X130 boasts the usual specs, including a 10-inch 1024 x 600 display, along with a 1.6GHz Atom N270 processor, 160GB hard drive, 1GB of RAM, 802.11 b / g / n WiFi connectivity, Bluetooth 2.0 + EDR support, and the standard Windows XP OS onboard. Not sure when this thing is about to make a US appearance, but be sure it will. Meanwhile, hit the link at the bottom, there’s a short video to watch.

[LG]

[digg-me]

First come the rumors, then you see the  mock-ups, and moments before any official announcement is made, some blurred and unfocused images surface up. Have you guessed already? Of course you did, it is a mandatory process for any Apple product to go through, before getting released, and make no mistake, iPod Touch next gen (AKA: iPod Touch 3G) is not different from others. And with so many “yes camera no camera” speculations floating around, It is for you to decide either these latest footage images are fake or legit. Hit the break to see the video.

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With so many rumors and speculations floating around, it’s time to organize the latest details we know about the coming release of the Zune HD. Apparently, according to a Gizmodo tipster, the official debut is now scheduled to September 15th (one week past September 8th). In addition, both Zune HD 16GB and 32GB models are already available for a pre-order in Amazon and Newegg, priced at $219.99 and $289.99, respectively (requires a $25 deposit).  From what we know, the player itself will be equipped with a tiny impressive on-screen keyboard that brings up a nice small arch graphic whenever you tap a letter, to distinguish it from its neighbors (See image after the break). Other than that, the internet browser is claimed to be an Opera one, but we can’t be 100% sure, yet. Meanwhile, until things get more clear (and there’s not much time left), checkout the latest hands-on video from CrunchGear, or the Grand Tour video (courtesy of Tech Flash Videos), featuring Brian Seitz of Microsoft’s Zune team demonstrates the Zune HD. Hit the jump, to read the updates.

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Apparently, Gigabyte wants even more when it comes to netbooks in general and tablet netbooks to be more specific. And while recent models like M1022, S1024 And T1028 are already available in the market, the company releases the new T1028X version in Europe, equipped with even better specs, that include a 10.1-inch 1366 x 768 swivel display, along with an Atom N280 processor (instead of N270 on previous models), up to 2GB of RAM, built-in microphone, 802.11b/g/n wifi connectivity, dual stereo speakers, a 6-cell 7650 mAh battery, 160GB HDD, 4-in-1 card reader, three USB 2.0 ports and a 1.3MP webcam. As mentioned, the T1028X machine is up and available to buy, offering some optional add-ons like embedded HSDPA and Wimax support, but bare in mind it will cost you, and a lot, as basic device will set you back for  €622 ($875), which is pretty expensive for this category, to say the least. In any case, you won’t find a lot of competition around the 10-inches models, so there you go – a good excuse to get one.

[Via Slashgear]

If you can’t hold your breath and patiently wait for Microsoft’s Zune HD to make a debut on September 8th, Chinese company, RAmos has a new device, the T11 RK, that will let you play your 720P HD library in a snap, thanks to the Rockchip RK2806 processor, built inside, together with a 5-inch, 800 x 480 display, 720p TV out, 8GB of internal memory (we’d expect a lot more), and the usual FM radio tuner to set you up on the go. Other than that you should expect a wide range of HD files support, like  H.264 HD, DivX, XviD, MPG, and FLV, as you come to pay 699 Yuan (about $100) on your coming Asian trip.

Update: You can watch the RAmos T11 RK video right here.

[via engadget]

It’s getting hard to follow Sony lately, with all its media players activity, which gets into high gear on recent weeks, especially in Europe, with the E-Series showing up almost� a month ago, and now the S-Series that was listed up on a French retailer website called Materiel’s , featuring the 8GB NWZ-S544 and 16GB NWZ-S545, both equipped with a 2.4-inch QVGA wide-screen display, along with an FM tuner, a mic, built-in stereo speakers, an integrated stand for landscape video watching, and a strong Li-ion battery that can deliver up to 42 hours of audio or 6.5 hours of video, whenever it plays one of the supported formats, including MP3, non-DRM AAC, WMA, H.254, MPEG4, and WMV. In terms of pricing, the S-Series is priced at 129 Euros (about $180) for the 8GB model and 149 Euros ($211) for 16GB flavor. Still no official announcement from Sony, nor any Stateside availability details, so stay tuned for even more to come.

Update1: Apparently Sony America has just gotten official with the S-Series walkmans. The new lineup will include the 8GB NWZ-S544 and 16GB NWZ-S545, both equipped with the aforementioned specs. Mind you, playing music via speakers will make your battery going drained after only 17 hours of audio workout or 5 hours of video playback. The good news are that Sony has plans making them available Stateside (either in black, pink, violet, or red), next month, priced at $110 and $130, respectively. Hit the jump to read the official announcement.

Update2: And if you care watching Sony’s latest sleek and thin S-series walkman in action, looks like Sony Europe’s marketing division is now up with a new promotional video footage, featuring this minuscule bad boy in all its glory. Hit the jump to see the rest.

Update3: Sony adds two more version to its all new S series of players. Both walkmans, S640 and S740 boast a 2-inch display, pumped to 720×480 screen resolution via TV-output. And while the first (S640) houses either 8GB or 16GB capacities, the second (S740) has an additional 32GB model to offer aside from the other two. Other than that, both machines are equipped with noise cancellation filters and presumably expected to go out in Japan somewhere this month, with prices ranging from Â¥16,000 ($155 USD) to Â¥25,000 ($278 USD). Colorful image of the new joiners is right after the break.

[Via Sony Insider]

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While anxiously waiting for ION-based netbooks to finally show up in the market, Korean giant, Samsung, has already made it available for a pre-order, with its latest N510 netbook machine, which is expected to go live in Europe somewhere around September, priced at €499 (about $718), packing  an 11.6-inch 1 366 x 768 display, along with Atom N280 processor, 6.5 hours battery NVIDIA’s ION chipset, paired with 9400M graphics, to handle 1080p high-def videos smoothly. Other specs include expandable 1GB of RAM, 1.3 megapixels webcam, 3 x USB 2.0 ports, an HDMI output, WiFi 802.11b/g/n connectivity, Bluetooth 2.1 + EDR,  3 in 1 card reader slot and  160GB SATA II HDD. Stay tuned for more to come.

Update1: Apparently, Samsung’s desirable N510 ION-based netbook  will make its way Stateside somewhere around September for a whopping price of $599. Sometimes, you have to pay to be one of the first, experiencing top-notch technologies, eh?

Update2: The good guys at Netbooknews.de were kind enough to share with us some real photos of the ION-based Samsung N510 netbook they got to play with, moments before it goes life in Europe. But if images are not your cup of tea, they also added a short video preview, showing the powerful wonder sitting side-by-side next to another Samsung phenomena, the legendary NC10. hit the jump to take a look.

[Via Blogeee]

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While most details are still missing, Korean giant Samsung is about to release another PMP device to the market, this time it’s the YP-R0 player, which suppose to be available in the following months with a 2.6-inch touchscreen, a slim chassis (only 60g weight), 8GB of flash storage, an FM tuner (RDS compatible), a microSD card slot expansion and wide range of codecs support, including MP3, OGG, WMA, ASF, FLAC, WAV, AAC, MPEG4, WMV, JPEG, PNG, BMP, and GIF. In terms of pricing, you should expect shelling out about KRW 130,000 ($185) when it gets available. Stay tuned.

Update: Word on the street says that Samsung’s R0 PMP is finally up in Korea, either in Indie Black, Techno Silver, or Rap Pink hues, and includes a 2.6-inch TFT display, along FM radio, microSD card slot, an integrated photo viewer and wide range of codecs support. Storage wise, you get to choose between 4GB and 8GB, while prices stand at KRW139,000 ($120) or KRW179,000 ($155), respectively.

[via journaldugeek]

Apple has finally released iPhone OS 3.0.1, to handle those SMS vulnerability problems that allowed evil backdoor malwares to penetrate your machines and viciously attack them – Now it won’t happen, thanks to the new patch Cupertino has delivered. The new iPhone OS 3.0.1 update is up and available for downloading via your iTunes, sized at 280MB, so hit the app and get it now.

Update: Here’s what Apple’s speaker, Tom Neumayr, had to say about the issue:

“We appreciate the information provided to us about SMS vulnerabilities which affect several mobile phone platforms. This morning, less than 24 hours after a demonstration of this exploit, we’ve issued a free software update that eliminates the vulnerability from the iPhone. Contrary to what’s been reported, no one has been able to take control of the iPhone to gain access to personal information using this exploit.”