smartech

This isn’t the best year to find new media players at the CES show in Vegas. Still, if you look closer, you just might see a few, hidden, while walking down the halls. One of them, which looks quiet similar to the Cowon S9, is iRiver’s 3.5-inch K1, also known as “Smart HD”, which may give you a sense of what it can play, besides the usual batch of formats we all know. Screen resolution is at 480 x 320 and the PMP itself boasts a DMB TV tuner,along WiFi, web browser, a built-in mic and integrated FM tuner. Internet support is definitely the trigger that caught our attention here, but mind you, it can also be used as a mini e-book reader, out of the box, the moment it comes out in South Korea at the end of the month. No price or US release info at the moment.

Update: It looks like iRiver’s K1 PMP will go live initially in Korea only. It will be offer in variant flavors, including the basic 8GB version, priced at â‚©229,000 (about $205), while a DMB mobile TV tuner add-on will run for â‚©279,000 (about $250) and the 16GB model for â‚©299,000 (about $265). In case you’re into the full fledged pack with WiFi, DMB tuner and 16 gigs of storage, the K1 will cost you â‚©349,000, or $310 US dollars.

It looks great, it sports a 10-inch capacitive display, runs a powerful Tegra 2 chipset and called Harmony. That’s pretty much what we  know about MSI’s new Android tablet that recently showed up at the CES show in Vegas. The platform is actually an Android 2.1 and the slate is literally tagged as an E-book machine.  It has both WiFi and 3G WWAN connectivity included, and apparently, wants to be “your office to go” solution.  Check out the videos we’ve added half past the break.

[via phandroid]

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We’re not used to such big players, the kind that recently announced by Aluratek at the CES show in Vegas, but that’s probably the fun part of discovering new gadgets, isn’t it? Well, maybe, depends who you’re asking and how portable it is. This one, the 8.9-inch Cinepal media player, doesn’t look so handy, especially when it’s hard to determine whether it’s a digiframe, a tablet, a PMP or just an e-reader. The answer probably falls somewhere in between. Anyway, you can get it next month for $179, that will grant you 4GB of internal storage, together with an SD / SDHC expansion slot, a 6 hours of battery time and wide range of codecs compatibility, including DivX DRM, AVI, VOB, DAT, MPEG, H.264, MKV, MP3, WMA and JPEG files support. It would also run your 720p video files wherever you go, but frankly, we can’t imagine ourselves taking it for a journey or a quick short walk. PR stuff after the jump.

[via laptopmag]

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The King of Pop is dead, but his legacy is live N kickin’, and it seems like it’d get even bigger as time goes by. One company that has recognized Jakson’s extremely attractive merchandising potential is Sony Japan that recently announced it would release a limited edition This is it! package of the king that suppose to include a slim PS3 console, boasting a 120GB storage and a nifty Blu-ray drive. This special pack – a result of the collaboration between Sony Pictures Entertainment and Sony Computer Entertainment Japan – is set to go live on January 27, either in Black or White colors, priced at Â¥33,500 (about $361), nothing a fan can’t afford these days.

[via SCEJ]

We would like to wish all of our readers a very happy, peaceful and inspiring New Year

Tablets, Androids, portable devices, we keep hearing them a lot, everywhere we go, in/off cyber world. The latest, is from Camagni, a Taiwanese group that brings us the Webstation, an Android-based tablet device which sports a 7-inch 800 x 480 glass touchscreen, paired with a 624MHz Marvell PXA303 processor, 128MB of RAM, 256MB of internal storage, a microSD card slot (expandable up to 8GB capacity) and a nice slick whitish frame, that comfortably fits the palm of your hand. Communication wise, you’ll find the Webstation equipped up to date with 3G WWAN, 802.11b/g WiFi and even a GPS navigation system, that was tucked in order to guide your way out there. Price suppose to stand at $399 in Japan while availability dates are still a mystery – although we do know – that basic white flavor is not alone and Pink or Black hues will hit the shelves as well. Hands on videos were added after the jump, hit them up and catch with the updates.

Update1: Turns out you can pre-order the Webstation Android tablet right now from Camagni’s online store, equipped with that 7-inch glass touchscreen, a 624MHz Marvell PXA303 and 256MB of flash storage, for $389 in case you’re one of those “early birds” or $399 if you decide to do a thorough market research before getting now.

Update2: Looks like Camangi’s Android-based Webstation has finally landed on US shores and the guys at Gear Diary have taken it for a series of unboxing shots. Hit the break to see the results (third video).

Update3: It seems the guys at Laptop aren’t pleased with Camangi’s  performance, stating it’s sluggish and a bit limited at the moment. Design wise, they were very satisfied.

[via engadget]

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While most Nvidia ion-based netbooks are scheduled to go live at the end of this year, HP seems to be the one to take matters into its own hands and be the first to hit the scene with a graphics-boosted netbook device. The model we’re talking about is the Mini 311, which recently showed up on HP’s online shop with an HD compatible 11.6-inch (1,366 x 768) display, Atom N270 processor, an integrated 802.11b/g wireless LAN, 1GB of RAM, a 160GB hard drive and built-in VGA and HDMI ports for external image use. Microsoft’s Windows XP stuffed inside to handle this powerful system, while a near-full-size (92%) keyboard, three USB hubs and Altec Lansing speakers are all part of the deal. Starting price looks pretty attractive, at $399, but any add-on will set you back an extra cash. Thus, an Atom N280, Bluetooth and 802.11n will charge you $25 each, while white flavors are listed for another $20 and 3G WWAN connection is set for $125 more. Nevertheless, we still think it’s a good bargain, especially when it runs a 720p flash video flawlessly. See for yourself after the break.

Update1: It’s not that we needed any further proof to make us believe that HP’s Mini 311 netbook is capable handling advanced high-def media files better than others, but just in case, here are some facts – risen from LaptopMag’s benchmark tests – to maintain our claims: on the PCMark 05, the 311 has scored 1,917 points, that’s 500 points above the average, while the PCMark 06 review has given the 311 a 1,386 score, which is  1,200 on top of the ordinary and just about the same score as a MacBook Air. Very impressive, isn’t it?

Update2: If you have any plans on getting one, the guys at MyHPMini discovered interesting details from HP’s service manual. In general, the 311 will soon be out in different Windows 7  versions, including Windows 7 Starter, Basic, Premium, and Professional flavors. Additionally, you’ll also get a chance to upgrade your netbook and stuff inside cool specs like:

• NVIDIA ION, the FULL platform, only with Windows 7
• 1GB RAM (plus 1GB on-board ram), total 2GB
• 2GB RAM (plus the 1GB on-board), total 3GB
• 80GB Solid-State-Drive (SSD)
• 250GB Hard Drive, 5400rpm, only with Windows 7
• 320GB Hard Drive, 5400rpm, only with Windows 7

Now that’s what we’re looking for.

[HP]

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[digg-me]

Recently, we find it hard to ignore the hefty buzz around Twitter. It seems the service is in its peak nowadays and every news channel or media network across the globe, already covered this microblogging revolution in one way or another. Not to mention the massive popularity that Twitter is getting from mega celebs like Oprah Winfrey, Ashton Kutcher and many others, who find the service convenient enough to transfer their notions to the masses (AKA: followers). But famous people aside, using Twitter for quite a long time, made us realize there are many rules and norms people should acquire before getting into the service. Truth to tell, with more than 30 million Twitter members around, we’re not convinced all users will necessarily adopt every single idea or belief we share – but hey, we’re open for suggestions.

Hit the jump to read a list of 36 tips and advices for the average Twitter starters:

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Remember the Eee PC T91 tablet netbook that showed up at the CES show back in January? Turns out Asus has even a newer version, which was recently introduced in Cebit and answers the name T91GO. This latest tablet device sports a slim and impressive design, together with an 8.9-inch swivel touchscreen, 1GB of RAM, 16GB SSD and Atom Z520 processor. But one thing that distinguish the T91GO from its older version is the integrated quadband 3G HSPA modem that lets you hook up to the internet from any place you want, without the need to be around hotspots. Other than that, you get the same WiFi / Bluetooth connections, battery that can provide up to 5hrs time and Windows XP, combined with a designated Eee PC Touch UI. Still no word on priceor availability, but you can checkout the video from UMPC Portal after the break.

[via Eee-PC.de]

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For many of us, Gachapin (Dinosaur) and Mukku (Bigfoot) are totally strangers, but for the vast majority of Japanese kids they are huge TV stars, that conquer their screens for long hours. To leverage these characters, Kohjinsha and Bandai Creation have decided to bring the two into an ML-based netbook edition, boasting a vivid green chassis, combined with a whitish keyboard. Other than that, it’s just another regular netbook with Intel ATOM N270 processor inside, 1GB of RAM, 160GB HDD, 8.9-inch 1024 x 600 display, a 1.3 megapixel webcam, WiFi connection and the usual outputs. Interestingly, this new device will sport a 1Seg Digital TV Tuner, to let the children watch their heroes on the new lappy, rather than your telly. Still no word about price or availability but we like the idea of teenagers hanging with netbooks, instead of just books.

Update: Shockingly, you’ll have to spend ¥79,800 ($866) in order to get this one for your kids.

[via akihabaranews]

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We know many users who wish to have a simple mp3 player, the kind you take in your bag wherever you go and simply connect whenever you want, without any tricks or complexity, just pure music. For this target specifically, Korean manufacturer MyRacer has launched its latest Lisse S10 player which packs a four lines 128 x 64 OLED display, together with an FM tuner, a microphone, 2GB/4GB internal storage and a four-way pad to navigate the menu. Although we have no details concerning price or availability, this small 46x40x10mm DAP is promised to be released in a wide batch of colors to choose from, so stay tuned.

[via gmp3]

We’re not sure either it’s just a holidays gift or recession circumstances, but Korean company, iRiver, has decided to cut the Spinn‘s expropriated prices and make them more affordable for the audiophiles. Thus, you get a chance to buy the 4GB player for $189.99 ($10 cut) or the 8GB version for $229.99 ($20 cut). Expect changes to take place starting from today.

Update: it seems these price cuts will include the E100 and the LPlayer.

[via Crave]

AMD is expected to announce a break up tomorrow morning, due to growing demand for independent, leading-edge foundry production capabilities and increasing R&D costs. According to sources, the giant chipmaker will be splitting up into two companies, as the first one will be responsible for chips designing and the second, for the manufacturing. Additionally, the company has issued a PR release, saying:

“AMD and Advanced Technology Investment Company of Abu Dhabi to Create New Leading-Edge Semiconductor Manufacturing Company. Mubadala increases investment in financially-stronger AMD, which is simultaneously unlocking the value of its manufacturing assets”

The meaning is that Advanced Technology Investment Company will strengthen AMD’s financial position by purchasing 55.6 percent of The Foundry (manufacturing company), for $5.1 billion dollar, and both sides will cooperate together, in order to create a clear stand alone leader in global semiconductor manufacturing, that will be able to equally confront Intel. Stay tuned.

[AMD]

Online digital music market is getting warmed up, as US retail giant, Best Buy, announces it will acquire Napser for an astonishing $121 million price tag. The transaction is set to be accomplished in Q4 of this year and we have no doubt it was carried out in order to try snatching a substantial share from iTunes’ market dominance. Napster allows its 708,000 subscribers to access an unlimited library of music or using the “Napster Mobile” platform, on their mobile phones, for a small monthly fee of $15. Having said that, the company has never turned a profit, during its long years of existence.

Best Buy president Brian Dunn confirms the company’s desire to expand Napster services and to use “Napster’s capabilities and digital subscriber base to reach new customers with an enhanced experience for exploring and selecting music and other digital entertainment products over an increasing array of devices.” Be sure it’s just the beginning and we expect more developments to take place in the near future. We do hope this move will increase the competition and at the end of the day, will be profitable for the consumers.

[via ZDNet]

Although earphones are no stranger to Logitech, the company has announced it’s aquiring US-based company Ultimate Ears, a market leader in custom in-ear monitors for on-stage musicians and iPod or iPhone consumers. The $34 million price tag is fairly reasonable, as it gives Logitech the abillity to strongly penetrate the mp3 players niche with quality in-ear earbuds, and to expand its portfolio of digital audio products. The acquisition is subject to customary closing conditions and is expected to close in August.

[via Ultimate Ears]

Summer is the festivals season, where thousands of groupies gather around stages, equipped with camping tents and cellphones, dancing all day long, as the music rocks and the beer pours down for 3 days of euphoria. To keep your mobile devices charged, telecoms company Orange has decided to test a new mobile phone dancing charger at the Glastonbury Festival in the UK. This experimental Dance Charger prototype works on kinetic elements, allowing to convert your movements into generated energy in order to charge your attached handset. Designed as an arm strap, the 4.25 x 2.5-inch velcro and elastic band houses weights and magnets that produce an electric charge, once you wave with your hand or shake your body. As mentioned, it was presented at Glastonbury 2 weeks ago, but you might find it in some other places, so if you happen to be in one of those summer festival and need to charge your phone, just hand it to Orange’s Dance Charging Man to see if it works.

[via smartplanet]

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Originally written on June 22nd:

John McCain is a war hero, no doubt, but if you have seen his latest campaign ad, you might have had a deja-vu feeling. The reason for that is the commercial’s background music, originally created for EA’s Medal Of Honor:European Assault by Christopher Lennertz, an Obama supporter, who wasn’t pleased to see his videogame composition, used in McCain’s campaign, without any granted authorization. Still, Lennertz made it very clear that there was just a mix-up over rights, and nothing illegal took place. To read Lennertz official statement on the McCain ad, hit the jump.

Please enable Javascript and Flash to view this Flash video.

[via kotaku]

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After the game comes the watch, as Metal Gear Solid 4   limited-edition wristwatch is up for pre-order at UK online retailer Gamestation, featuring stailess steel body, exclusive serial number along with a certificate of authenticity from Konami, all packed in an adorned black box with a silver MGS4 logo on top. Mind you, there are only 500 pieces to be released on October 31st for estimated price of £99.99 ($196), so hurry up!

[via Tech Digest]

First time I’ve encountered with the iRiver Spinn was back in January at the CES show in Vegas. Now it seems the player goes live in the UK around mid-August, coming up in 4GB, 8GB, or 16GB capacities and some cool features, including a 3.3-inch AMOLED display (480 x 272), a 3D graphics chip, DMB TV, FM radio tuner, Bluetooth 2.0, microSD slot, a microphone, flash support and many more. Still, no word on price or US release date but you have to admit it looks great.

Update: September 29th – The Spinn is up for pre-sale, priced at 4GB ($249.99) and 8GB ($289.99). Shipping is scheduled to October 3rd.

[via Crave UK]

I don’t want to put you into panic, but i guess it is important for gamers to be aware of the possibility that game consoles might contain some hazardous chemicals with an impact on their memory and learning capabilities for the long term. The source for this latest alert is Greenpeace, who tested 3 major gaming consoles, including Xbox, PS3 and Nintento Wii. The organization has found those dangerous materials, like phthalates and bromine, in each one of the consoles, on different parts, so next time you crash your car on GTA IV, just think of the consequences. Mind you, Greenpeace offers a direct contact to the manufacturers in order to put some pressure and demand a clean up consoles. Interestingly, only Nintendo’s email has worked out.

[via slashgear]