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Samsung announces the new Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 at IFA

Andrew Edney

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Sep 4, 2013

Tonight at IFA, Samsungunveiled the Galaxy Note 10.1, 2014 Edition, an original approach to balancing productivity, powerful content creation and consumption in one portable tablet device.

Equipped with WQXGA Super clear LCD (2560×1600) resolution in a stunning 10-inch display, 1.9 GHZ Octa Core processor (for 3G / WiFi only version) and 3GB RAM, the Galaxy Note 10.1 (2014 Edition) demonstrates Samsung’s innovation leadership by delivering ultimate productivity capabilities while remaining extremely thin and light.

The new Galaxy Note 10.1 expands on the advanced productivity and creativity leadership delivered by the original Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1. In addition to enabling productivity, the device has been redesigned with a sleek, light, slim frame that is both fashionable and portable.

Richer viewing experience, enhanced multitasking

The large, bright and crystal clear screen delivers four times the pixel density of the original Galaxy Note 10.1, providing a premium content viewing experience.

The magazine style UX allows users to organise their favourite resources in an easy-to-use dashboard and then access that content for a stylish reading experience. Whether watching videos or reading magazines and e-books, the new Galaxy Note 10.1 provides an immersive media consumption experience. New design characteristics, like a warm and textured back cover with stitching, inspire a sense of elegance and sophistication.

The device’s screen size also enables enhanced multitasking. With Multi Window, users will be able to run separate instances of the same application, and use an enhanced S Pen to drag and drop content from one window to another. Pen Window enables users to simply draw a window of any size on the screen, and instantly access unique in-application features such as YouTube or calculator.

Improved S Pen and S Note functionality

The updated S Pen included with Galaxy Note 10.1 improves responsiveness, delivers day-to-day efficiency enhancements and produces more creative input capabilities. The tablet also includes Galaxy Note 3’s updated S Pen features such as Action Memo, Scrapbook, Screen Write and S Finder. Combined with the tablet’s larger screen, these enhanced S Pen capabilities present users with unique creative opportunities and the space to explore them.

With new Scrapbook capabilities, users can easily indicate any interesting content with the S Pen and organise it into individualised scrapbooks, creating a log of discussion points for a future work conversation, a wish list for new clothes or a home redesign project, or a personal favourites list.

S Note has been upgraded with a more intuitive, easy-to-use interface. Users will have access to both note files and notepads, with the ability to use the S Pen to take handwritten notes. With Easy Chart, hand-drawn visualisations of data can be instantly transformed into more formal charts and graphs.

Offering content for enhanced entertainment and creativity

The new Galaxy Note 10.1 will also offer a host of exciting partner content that complements the device’s entertainment, productivity and creativity properties. With premium partner applications and free memberships and services, the new Galaxy Note 10.1 provides everything a user might need in one place. The Samsung Content Gifts include content from leading news sources such as Bloomberg Businessweek+, The New York Times, Autodesk Sketchbook for Galaxy for painting and sketching, a redesigned version of social broadcast network Twitter optimised for the device, and much more.

In addition, the Galaxy Note 10.1 (2014 Edition) will also include a Samsung Apps widget that will direct users to additional beneficial content provided by Samsung. The widget will live on the home screen and include a “Special Offer for Galaxy” section that will highlight unique, country-based content for users.

Samsung KNOX, comprehensive mobile security for consumers and enterprise

The new Galaxy Note 10.1 comes with enhanced privacy and security protection provided by Samsung KNOX. Users can activate Samsung KNOX with ease which allows them to run and store security-sensitive applications and data inside a protected execution environment called Container. The security inside the Container is strengthened by system-level protection of Samsung KNOX against malware and phishing attacks as well as hacking attempts on physical devices when devices are stolen or lost. For instance, important personal pictures or video can be stored in the Container with no worries for data leakage due to hacking. In addition, users may choose to store enterprise applications and data such as corporate email, contacts and calendar and allow the IT department to manage the container through EAS (Exchange ActiveSync Server). These features make the Galaxy Note 10.1 (2014 Edition) an ideal device for BYOD (Bring-Your-Own-Device to work).

The Galaxy Note 10.1 (2014 Edition) will come in three connectivity options: WiFi Only, WiFi and 3G, WiFi and LTE, available in 16/32/64GB + Micro SD. There are two colour options, Jet Black and Classic White and the Galaxy Note 10.1 (2014 Edition) will be available globally starting from Q3, 2013.

Samsung Introduces the Galaxy Gear wearable device

Gadgets
News

Andrew Edney

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Sep 4, 2013

0

Tonight at IFA in Berlin, Samsung introduced the Galaxy Gear, a perfect companion device that further integrates the Samsung Galaxy experience into everyday life. Samsung Galaxy Gear combines smart device connectivity, tailored technological features and stylish design as a single premium accessory.

Samsung Galaxy Gear lets users live in the moment while staying connected to their Samsung Galaxy devices. It notifies users of incoming messages, such as calls, texts, emails and alerts, delivers a preview of those messages and creates the opportunity for users to accept or discreetly ignore those messages. When an incoming message requires more than a quick glance, users can simply pick up their Samsung Galaxy devices and the Smart Relay feature will instantly reveal the full content on the screen.

Voice operation

The built-in speaker allows users to conduct hands-free calls directly from the Gear, maintaining connections to their mobile communications without disrupting their daily routines. For example, a user leaving the grocery store, whose hands are full with shopping bags, could still make a call by speaking into the Galaxy Gear without touching the screen. Users can also draft messages, create new calendar entries, set alarms, and check the weather on the Galaxy Gear with S Voice.

Capture daily life from your wrist

In addition to enabling smart device controls, Samsung Galaxy Gear introduces several features that help users easily capture life’s meaningful moments which otherwise might be missed. With the Memographer feature, a 1.9 Megapixel camera, users who are on the move or participating in physical activities can record both photos and video to create quick, visual records of important information or events from their daily lives, as well as share them on their social networks. Extending the quick-record concept, Voice Memo lets users capture important thoughts or conversations from their wrists and save those voice recordings into texts on their Samsung Galaxy devices.

A growing list of controls for favourite features

With the Galaxy Gear, users gain a wide range of favourite features that further increase the benefits of this new accessory. New security enhancement Auto Lock automatically secures the companion smartphone screen any time that Galaxy Gear is more than 1.5 meters away from the smartphone, and then unlocks the smartphone when the companion devices are near each other again. Find My Device helps users find the location of their smart devices when they have been misplaced by making them beep, illuminate and vibrate. With Samsung Galaxy Gear, users can also control the music played on their Samsung Galaxy devices. As with traditional music players, it helps users browse, play and pause songs even when their smart device is not within reach. Finally, the Galaxy Gear also works like a Pedometer to track physical activity via enhanced, built-in sensor technology. This feature systematically and automatically monitors users so they can track key personal data such as calories burned, steps taken and distance covered.

Standalone watch and iconic fashion accessory

Samsung Galaxy Gear embodies understated elegance. Its refined design, executed in high-quality finishes, conjures images of luxury jewellery while still being understated enough to go well with any outfit. A rounded and simple-flowing form wraps around the body, integrating with the user’s personal environment, and maintaining comfort at all times. The Galaxy Gear also serves as a wristwatch and includes several face options that create the opportunity for users to personalise their watch face. It will come preloaded with 10 different clock options and more choices will be downloadable via Samsung Apps. The Galaxy Gear experience can be further personalised by selecting from six colours that will be available at launch: Jet Black, Mocha Gray, Wild Orange, Oatmeal Beige, Rose Gold, and Lime Green.

Samsung Galaxy Gear will be launched with the Galaxy Note 3 in more than 140 countries around the world from September 25^th, 2013.

Samsung Galaxy Gear will be on display at the Samsung booth #20 at IFA 2013, September 6 through September 11, 2013. Full details and product images are available at www.samsungmobilepress.com.

For more information please visit www.samsung.com/uk/galaxygear

Call of Duty : Black Ops 2 Apocalypse DLC coming September 26th for PS3 and PC

Gaming
News

Andrew Edney

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Sep 4, 2013

0

On September 26, the epic season of DLC for Call of Duty: Black Ops II culminates with the release of Apocalypse for PlayStation 3 and PC fans.

Call of Duty: Black Ops II Apocalypse marks Treyarch’s fourth and final DLC map pack for Call of Duty: Black Ops II, capping-off the year with two all-new Multiplayer Maps, two re-imagined fan-favorite Multiplayer classics, and an alternate-reality Dieselpunk Zombies experience that transports players to the undead-infested trenches of a World War I battlefield.

MULTIPLAYER:

Pod: A failed utopian community from the 70’s has left stacks of dilapidated residential pods nestled into an abandoned cliff side. Its residents long gone, the modernist compound now hosts frenetic combat as players must run atop the pods and navigate their multi-tiered interiors for a strategic edge.

Frost: Fresh snow meets explosive gunpowder in this snow-capped European city, where the bridge over a frozen canal separates it into two sides, requiring players to employ multi-level traversal strategies to outsmart and ultimately outshoot their enemies.

Takeoff: Though marooned in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, this remote launch site is all about the close-quarters combat, combining tight corners with open spaces for combat encounters reminiscent of the multiplayer map “Stadium” from Call of Duty: Black Ops “First Strike.”

Dig: Two archeological dig sites in Afghanistan have unearthed the perfect playground for combatants eager for hectic, unceasing battle, as this re-imagining of the fan-favourite Call of Duty: World at War map “Courtyard” delivers two major chokepoints, a wide open layout, and raised platforms.

ZOMBIES:

With Call of Duty: Black Ops II Apocalypse, Treyarch reveals Origins, the most horrifying and imaginative Zombies experience yet. Players will be deployed to Dieselpunk-stylized World War I-era France where they will encounter the return of the four original heroes from the very first Zombies map, as well as hordes of zombies that have overrun trenches and fields, as well as the ruins of a mysterious and ancient location.

Sony and the New VAIO Tap 11 Windows 8 Tablet PC

Chris Hare

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Sep 4, 2013

0

Sony and the New VAIO Tap 11 Windows 8 Tablet PC

Sometimes you need the performance of a PC, sometimes the convenience of a tablet. Now you can have them both with the new VAIO Tap 11 from Sony, your everyday companion from the lecture hall to the living room.

Slipping effortlessly into a student bag, the super-light VAIO Tap 11 is a power-packed Windows 8 tablet PC that’s ready for anything. Thanks to the latest Intel processors and speedy SSD storage, you’ll breeze through daily tasks with the fluid, intuitive responses of Windows 8.

Browse the web, re-touch photos and explore apps on the 11.6” Full HD touchscreen. Movies and games look even more impressive with beautiful sharpness and clarity. X-Realityfor mobile (on selected models) brings entertainment to life with astonishing precision and detail, while TRILUMINOS Display for mobile offers a wide palette of gorgeously rich, natural colours.

Typing is a pleasure on VAIO Tap 11’s slim, full-pitch wireless keyboard with touchpad. The keyboard can also be attached to the screen when not being used, doubling as a protective cover for the PC screen. Whenever you want to, remove the cover and type comfortably with the keyboard on your lap or on a desk. Then, when you’re ready to move, just re-attach the keyboard and it automatically re-charges as you go.

Inspiration can strike at any time, and the VAIO Tap 11 makes a perfect note-taking partner in the lecture theatre, office or at home. Scribble down notes, take memos and sketch ideas with the responsive digitizer stylus. Take crisp photos of a textbook, report or slide presentation with the high resolution 8 megapixel rear-facing camera powered by “Exmor RS for PC”. Then sketch, draw or annotate with your own handwritten notes and slip the results into your own work.

The slim, versatile VAIO Tap 11 also makes a great partner to control your TV and home entertainment system. Browse schedules, get in-depth details about the show you’re watching and discover more great content with TV SideView (available free from the Window Store) – the app that’s like a ‘second screen’ for your BRAVIA TV. The VAIO Tap 11 even doubles as a handy infrared remote, letting you change channels, adjust TV volume and control other IR devices from the comfort of your couch.

Give your music collection and movies the soundtrack they deserve. ClearAudio+ mode immerses you in crisp, super-clear sound that’s optimised for your favourite content. There’s a choice of four different preset settings to suit any tastes, plus an equaliser and effects to fine-tune your listening via the intuitive touch interface.

Sharing your music is simple, too. One-touch listening easily links the VAIO Tap 11 with your NFC-enabled speakers, headphones and other audio devices. It’s the fun, convenient way to stream music without wires to slow you down.

Available in a choice of black or white finishes, the new VAIO Tap 11 Windows 8 tablet PC is available in the UK from October 2013.

Model	VAIO® Tap 11
Processor	Latest 4th Generation Intel ® Core (TM) processor based on Y-processor lines
Operating System	Windows 8 or Windows 8 Pro
Memory	Up to 4GB DDR3L 1600MHz SDRAM
Storage	Up to 512GB SSD
Screen	29.4mm (11.6”) TRILUMINOS Display for mobile; OptiContrast Panel; Full HD (1920×1080) with wide (16:9) aspect ratio; X-Reality for mobile; 10 points capacitive touchscreen
Graphics	Intel® HD Graphics 4200 or Intel® HD Graphics
Others	digitizer stylus; Optional Mobile Broadband Module (LTE or HSPA+, UMTS, EDGE/GPRS); 8 Megapixel Rear Camera powered by ‘ExmorRS for PC’ with Auto-Focus; Front facing HD camera powered by ‘Exmor R for PC’ ; WLAN 802.11a/b/g/n; USB 3.0 with USB charge (x1); Bluetooth® standard Ver. 4.0 + HS; Micro HDMI out; microSD memory card slot; stereo speakers with ClearAudio+ ; Sensors (NFC, GPS, Accelerometer, Gyro, Digital Compass); Micro HDMI to VGA adapter (optional); AC powered Ethernet to Wi-Fi Router (optional)
Dimensions WxDxH	Approx. 304.6 mm x 9.9 mm x 188 mm (main unit without Mobile Broadband and without keyboard)
Weight	Approx. 0.78kg (main unit without Mobile Broadband and without keyboard)
Battery life	Not available yet

Sony Shows off the Bravia W85 65″ TV

Chris Hare

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Sep 4, 2013

1

See the big picture with the new BRAVIA W85 – it’s a revelation in colour, sound and smart connections. Sony’s largest Full HD LED television (65”) partners impressively detailed pictures with powerful, bass-rich audio and One-touch connection to your mobile.

Sony’s powerful X-Reality PRO picture engine cleans and refines TV signals for extraordinary detail, colour and contrast, whether you’re watching movies on Blu-ray Disc™, regular broadcasts or even internet video.

Unique to Sony, TRILUMINOS Display enriches your viewing with a wider palette of richly realistic colours, from lush meadows and shimmering seascapes to skies, flowers and faces. The BRAVIA W85 transports you into the world of rich, vibrant colour you’ve always dreamed of.

Fabulous pictures are matched with full-range, distortion free audio, courtesy of Sony’s unique Signal-to-Sound architecture. Advanced digital processing technologies enhance the emotion and detail of whatever you’re watching. It’s complemented by a Bass Reflex speaker system with three separate drive units – one for rich low frequencies, a separate tweeter for crystalline highs, and an assist speaker on the TV’s rear that delivers solid, powerful bass.

It’s easy to share content wirelessly from your mobile with everyone in the room. Just touch your NFC-compatible Xperia smartphone or tablet against the supplied One-touch remote. Then mirror the screen of your portable device, letting everyone see photos, videos, games and apps on the big screen of BRAVIA with vibrant colour and detail.

Available for free download, TV SideView is a free app that turns your smartphone, tablet or PC (Android/iOS/Windows 8) into a ‘second screen’ for BRAVIA. Control your TV, browse listings, get more information on shows, check friends’ viewing recommendations via social media, and more. It’s relaxed, intuitive and fun.

As you’d expect, stunning pictures and sound are complemented by equally arresting looks. The latest evolution of Sony’s signature ‘Sense of Quartz’ styling takes its cues from cutting-edge interior design, giving BRAVIA an unforgettable presence to any living space.

The new BRAVIA W85 65” Full HD LED television is available in the UK from October, priced at £2999 from http://www.sony.co.uk

New Wireless Server from Sony

Chris Hare

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Sep 4, 2013

0

Wirelessly view and share your personal content – easily, safely and securely – with the new WG-C20 Portable Wireless Server from Sony.

Measuring just 14.4 x 7cm and 9mm thin, the pocket-sized server is evolved from the WG-C10, now adding even more possibilities to manage all your content while you’re on the move or at home. Styled to match the latest Xperia smartphone, it’s also a great companion for other phone and tablet users.

Slip in an SD memory card and use the WG-C20 to view and share all those photos, videos and MP3 music, and even office documents and other PC files. For even more storage capacity, hook up USB devices like a flash memory, a digital camera or portable hard drive¹.

It’s the first Portable Wireless Server from Sony that supports NFC for fuss-free wireless connection. Just touch your Xperia or other NFC-equipped mobile device briefly against the WG-C20; the app wakes up and automatically makes a direct Wi-Fi connection with no fiddly set-up codes. Then enjoy wireless streaming of photos and movie clips from the server onto your smartphone.

Just slip in an SD card to wirelessly play and share content
NFC for easy one-touch wireless connection with your phone
Charge your smartphone or tablet battery
Play content on DLNA-enabled TVs or home audio devices
Share files with up to 8 other wireless users simultaneously, with easy, secure access control

Slim, colourful looks style-matched to new Xperia phone

With support for DLNA, the WG-C20 is just like a mini home media server. Stream stored video, photos and music to your TV, hi-fi, PCs, tablets and other networked DLNA client devices around the house, with no cables required. You can also hook up an external hard drive via USB cable and share the contents.

Digital camera users will also love the WG-C20. After shooting, slip your camera’s memory card into the server and view all those precious memories wirelessly on your smartphone or tablet, or upload to social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter.

The WG-C20 makes a handy tool for sharing content wirelessly with friends, family and co-workers when there’s no Wi-Fi hotspot nearby. Insert an SD memory card or connect a USB drive containing photos, PC documents or slide presentations. Then stream and share your files with up to eight users via their smartphones, tablets or PCs. It’s great for meetings, car journeys or impromptu get-togethers when others want to view your digital stuff. It’s secure, too – access control only lets friends or co-workers see and access a shared folder that you specify. For extra security you can also set a password allowing other devices to access content on the WG-C20.

You can even use the Internet while the server’s linked via peer-to-peer wireless connection with your smartphone, tablet or PC. The WG-C20 can ‘bridge’ an Internet connection from your normal Wi-Fi router, letting you explore the web and upload content and more from your mobile.

The WG-C20 also doubles as a handy power source for your smartphone, tablet or digital camera, quickly charging other devices via USB from its high-capacity battery when there’s no mains socket nearby.

It’s easy to control the WG-C20 using the File Manager app from Sony. Just touch your Xperia or NFC-equipped mobile devices to the WG-C20 and you’re directed to Google Play Store to download the free app to your mobile. File Manager for Android devices will be available by November 2013.

The new WG-C20 Portable Wireless Server is available in the UK in white, black and purple from October 2013. It will be priced at £99 from http://www.sony.co.uk

Watch 14 minutes of Watch Dogs open world gameplay

Andrew Edney

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Sep 4, 2013

0

Get a sneak peak of seamless multiplayer in action as Aiden becomes the target and takes revenge on an infiltrating hacker.

Here is the video:

In Watch Dogs, players will be immersed in a living, breathing and fully connected recreation of Chicago. Players will assume the role of Aiden Pearce, a new type of vigilante who, with the help of his smartphone, will use his ability to hack into Chicago’s central operating system (ctOS) and control almost every element of the city. Aiden will be able to tap into the city’s omnipresent security cameras, download personal information to locate a target, control systems such as traffic lights or public transportation to stop a chase, and more. The city of Chicago is now the ultimate weapon.

Watch Dogs will be available on PlayStation 4 and Xbox One at launch. The game will be available on November 19 for PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Wii U and PC.

Sony Shows Off The DSC-QX10 and DSC-QX100 Phone Lens

Chris Hare

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Sep 4, 2013

0

Sony Shows Off The DSC-QX10 and DSC-QX100 Phone Lens

Sony introduces two new products – the Cyber-shot DSC-QX10 and DSC-QX100 – which unite the creative power of a premium camera with the convenience of your smartphone. The lens-style cameras dramatically improve the quality of digital photographs captured on smartphones.

Shoot and share fantastic photography and HD video using your phone, with image quality and creative options to rival a premium standalone camera. The Cyber-shot DSC-QX10 and DSC-QX100 lens-style cameras are a perfect partner for the new Xperia Z1 and other smartphones, transforming your mobile into a power-packed camera.

It’s a dream come true for anyone who loves their smartphone but wants the photo quality that only a dedicated camera can deliver. And whilst they look like lenses, the DSC-QX10 and DSC-QX100 are complete cameras in their own right.

Links with your phone via Wi-Fi, shoots fabulous photos
NFC for easy One-touch connection
Get better-looking pictures with high resolution sensor, optical zoom, Optical SteadyShot and manual controls
Shoot from any angle then frame scenes and adjust settings on your phone’s touchscreen
A perfect partner for new Xperia Z1 and other Android and iOS smartphones

The DSC-QX10 and DSC-QX100 attach easily with the supplied smartphone attachment that fits several popular smartphone models (width 54-75mm/max. thickness 13mm).

Connection to your phone is made via Wi-Fi, and the latest version of Sony’s PlayMemories Mobile. For NFC smartphone owners, linking is even simpler with easy One-touch connection established without any complicated settings.

Explore a whole new world of creative imaging possibilities – use your phone screen to view shots, adjust settings and share images instantly via any of your phone apps.

You don’t even need to have the phone and camera attached for it to work. The phone can act as a handy ‘remote’ – simply place the new lens-style camera exactly where you want it and fire the shutter direct from your mobile; perfect for grabbing high-angle shots or self-portraits.

Weighing just 105g (with battery and Memory Stick Micro), the Cyber-shot DSC-QX10 partners an 18.2 effective megapixel Exmor R CMOS sensor with a high-quality Sony G Lens and boasts a powerful 10x optical zoom range. It is great for power-packed close-ups of people, fun-filled events and distant landmarks that are just not possible without a dedicated zoom lens. Built-in Optical SteadyShot combats camera shake, keeping handheld pictures and videos steady and blur-free, even in low-light conditions.

The Cyber-shot™ DSC-QX100 features a large 1.0-type Exmor R CMOS sensor with 20.2 effective megapixels. You’ll really see the difference with sumptuous, ultra-low noise images, even indoors or at dusk when many cameras and camera phones struggle. It’s simple to frame shots and change camera settings like aperture control and exposure compensation and photo/video record mode on your smartphone’s big touchscreen. There is far more creative control than you can ever get with your phone’s regular camera, enabling the user to capture beautifully background defocused shots. Everything is easily accessible, with extra dedicated keys for fingertip control of zoom and shutter release on the camera body. Teamed with a wide-aperture Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* lens with 3.6x optical zoom with Optical SteadyShot, it allows all the picture quality you’d expect from a premium pocket camera.

The powerful BIONZ processor in the DSC-QX100 and DSC-QX10 refines your image for beautifully natural, detail-packed stills and HD video. Superior Auto helps get the best from any scene, automatically recognising dozens of different shooting conditions and adjusting camera settings to suit. As an extra refinement, the DSC-QX100 sports a dedicated control ring for camera-like adjustment of manual focus and zoom.

Accessory options include a soft carrying case[1] and dedicated camera attachment case[2] for a perfect fit with latest models from Sony Mobile including the brand new Xperia™ Z1.

The new Cyber-shot™ DSC-QX100 and DSC-QX10 from Sony are available to pre-order from sony.co.uk now, and will be on general sale in the UK from the end of September 2013, priced at £399 and £179 respectively.

Meet the Sony HDR MV1 Music Video Recorder

Chris Hare

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Sep 4, 2013

0

Meet the Sony HDR MV1 Music Video Recorder

The new HDR-MV1 Music Video Recorder from Sony lets you shoot and share every performance with crisp, clear pictures and studio-quality sound to match.

Ideal for band rehearsals, practice sessions and live gigs, the slim, portable HDR-MV1 makes a great partner for recording groups, solo voices and instruments. Capturing Full HD video and uncompressed hi-fi stereo digital audio, it is a big step up from recording muffled clips on your camera phone. Plus, when you’re done, it’s easy to connect wirelessly with a smartphone or tablet for on-the-spot web uploads.

HDR-MV1 Music Video Recorder lets you record and instantly share Full HD videos with hi-fi stereo sound

Record live musical performances, demos and rehearsals with studio-quality Linear PCM sound
Superb Full HD video quality with wide-angle lens and high sensitivity for low-light shooting
Quick, easy sharing with Wi-Fi and NFC for One-touch transfers

The HDR-MV1 resolves every detail of your musical efforts with full-range, beautifully rich audio you’d expect from Sony – whether you’re recording a delicate flute or the action of a heavy metal rock band. The high quality 120-degree X-Y stereo microphone stands out of the recorder body, guaranteeing superb depth and separation. An on-screen meter allows easy checking and adjustment of mic levels for clear, undistorted recordings. And as an extra pro-style refinement, there’s an on-board limiter that guards against signal clipping when volume levels start climbing. If you want, plug in an external microphone or connect instruments directly to capture a totally pure performance.

Linear PCM recording assures uncompressed sound that’s even better than CD – making the HDR-MV1 ideal as a ‘standalone’ audio recorder even when you don’t need to shoot video. Alternatively, switch to web-friendly AAC format that is great for speedy Internet uploads or there is also a handy speaker in-built for checking your recordings instantly.

Vibrant, dynamic sound is matched by pristine video quality to match. From cramped rehearsals to expansive stages: the wide-angle 120-degree Carl Zeiss lens captures the whole scene, so no-one in the band gets left out of the action. Even dimly-lit clubs and practice rooms are no problem: the back-illuminated Exmor R™ CMOS sensor grabs detail-packed Full HD video with extremely low noise.

Poor quality clips with out of sync sound and screen are a thing of the past with the Audio lip sync feature – making sure the music stays precisely matched to the live view image.

Built-in Wi-Fi connects the HDR-MV1 with your smartphone or tablet for easy wireless uploads of your clips with no PC needed. Just touch the recorder against your NFC-equipped Android device for one-touch sharing (movie only). Even use your mobile as a handy remote to start recording and check camera angles on screen.

MVR Studio software (PC and Mac) is available as a download from the Sony website for easy editing, polishing and web uploads of your recordings. Available as an option, the LCS-MVA carry case protects the Music Video Recorder while you’re out and about, gigging or travelling.

The new HDR-MV1 Music Video Recorder from Sony is available in the UK from the end of November 2013, priced at £260 from www.sony.co.uk.

Sony Announces 4K and 3D Home Projectors

Chris Hare

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Sep 4, 2013

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Sony Announces 4K and 3D Home Projectors

Today at IFA, Sony announced two market-leading home cinema projectors – the 4K VPL-VW500ES and a Full HD 3D home projector, the VPL-HW55ES. Both projectors are designed to bring the high quality images of a big screen cinema experience into the home via the power of Sony’s cutting edge technology.

4K VPL-VW500ES home cinema projector

The VPL-VW500ES home cinema projector has been introduced to expand Sony’s 4K home cinema range. It will sit alongside the VPL-VW1000ES, the world’s first 4K native home cinema projector, launched in January 2012.

The VPL-VW500ES offers DCI based 4096 x 2160 resolution, delivering the very highest quality 4K content. The 4K experience is created using native 4K SXRD panels that utilise Sony’s 4K expertise from the professional digital cinema market. In addition, the projector has the latest HDMI standard (HDMI 2.0) to accommodate 4K/60P* content, which allows action to appear smoother, without the need for the electronic enhancement of pixels. Supporting 4K native resolution, the VPL-VW500ES also features an exclusive Super Resolution 4K upscaler called Reality Creation. This dramatically enhances high definition 1080p content, allowing viewers to enjoy 4K images with their existing Blu-ray Discs, even in 3D. Furthermore, the VPL-VW500ES has an original 4K up-scaling algorithm designed for “Mastered in 4K” Blu-ray Discs from Sony Pictures Entertainment, which enable the viewer to enjoy more accurate 4K native picture quality.

The VPL-VW500ES has 1,700 ANSI-lumen brightness and a 200,000:1 contrast ratio, which delivers a sharper picture quality. The projector has rich colour reproduction thanks to TRILUMINOS display technology, an enhanced optical engine design and auto-calibration features. Its manual colour correction tool allows users to adjust the hue, saturation and brightness to obtain a picture quality customised to their tastes. Motionflow picture technology also works to deliver clearer, less blurry images when watching fast-paced, cinematic action.

The VPL-VW500ES is compact and has a front air exhaust cooling system. Its flexibility means it is cable of projecting large distances without having to alter the projector’s position in the room. The projector uses a 2.06 zoom powered lens with a wide shift range, which removes the requirement for additional platform extensions in ceiling mounts. A built-in RF transmitter provides further installation flexibility with a strong wireless signal for wider coverage.

Full HD 3D VPL-HW55ES projector

The Full HD 3D VPL-HW55ES projector is the next generation of Sony’s industry-acclaimed and multiple-award winning VPL-HW50ES, announced at IFA in 2012.

Enhanced light efficiency and an optimised optical block enable the VPL-HW55ES projector to reach 1,700 ANSI lumen brightness, delivering clearer images in well-lit environments. The VPL-HW55ES also has an approximately 5,000 hour long lasting lamp due to its improved lamp cooling system.

An optical engine upgrade, contrast enhancer technology and Advanced Iris 3 technology enable a dynamic contrast ratio of more than 120,000:1. This increases black and white levels without diminishing peak brightness to maximise detail during darker scenes. Additional features such as Sony’s Bright Cinema and Bright TV mode, with SXRD panels, enhance the 3D image even further. The projector also has Sony’s Reality Creation technology.

The VPL-HW55ES has a built-in 3D IR transmitter. It is also compatible with an external 3D RF transmitter which provides further 3D synchronisation stability and coverage.

Both projectors have wireless HDMI compatibility as optional accessories. This enables them to receive a video signal from Blu-ray players and game consoles, allowing the AV environment to remain clutter free.

Commenting on the 4K VPL-VW500ES home cinema projector and the Full HD 3D VPL-HW55ES, Tak Nakane, Product Manager at Sony Europe said: “The VPL-VW500ES brings the cinema experience into the home like never before and reinforces Sony’s commitment to lead in 4K innovation from lens to living room. Innovations such as Sony’s 4K SXRD panels provide unrivalled picture quality at high resolution to make the 4K dream a more affordable reality. The addition of the VPL-HW55ES provides a premium 3D home cinema experience and expands the product range from which our customers can choose.”

Both the VPL-VW500ES and the VPL-HW55ES are available from the end of October.

Microsoft Announces New Forza 5 Xbox One Day One Edition

Gaming
News

Chris Hare

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Sep 4, 2013

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Microsoft Announces New Forza 5 Xbox One Day One Edition

Now after Microsoft announced the launch date of the Xbox One with 22nd November now the Xbox One One Day Edition that comes with Fifa 14 announced at Gamescom a few weeks ago. Now Microsoft has announced a new bundle Xbox One’s Day One Edition will be available with a free copy of Forza Motorsport 5 via download.

The Forza Motorsport 5 bundle is available to pre-order for £429 from GAME and Amazon.

Castle of Illusion Starring Mickey Mouse Out Now

Gaming
News

Chris Hare

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Sep 4, 2013

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Castle of Illusion Starring Mickey Mouse Out Now

Watch the launch trailer for Castle of Illusion Starring Mickey Mouse that is now available for download. Castle of Illusion Starring Mickey Mouse will be available worldwide from today (September 4) for PlayStation Network, PC and Xbox Live.

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gb7KNMvCz00?feature=player_detailpage%5D

Stan Lee Powers Up in LEGO Marvel Super Heroes

Gaming
News

Chris Hare

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Sep 4, 2013

0

Stan Lee Powers Up in LEGO Marvel Super Heroes

The LEGO Marvel Super Heroes are calling for back-up from a comic book legend, the one and only Stan Lee! Check out Stan Lee in LEGO form and his Marvel super skills in action as he joins the cast of more than 100 playable Super Heroes and Super Villains from the Marvel Universe.

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eiq6u0okJNo?feature=player_embedded%5D

Set for release this autumn, the game will be available for Xbox 360, PlayStation3, Wii U, Nintendo DS, Nintendo 3DS, PlayStation Vita, PC, as well as next-gen consoles Xbox One and PlayStation 4.

Release Date for the Xbox One has been Announced

Gaming
News

Chris Hare

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Sep 4, 2013

0

Release Date for the Xbox One has been Announced

Today Microsoft has announced the release date for the Xbox One coming out. Friday 22nd November, 2013 in all 13 of our initial launch markets – Australia, Austria, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Mexico, New Zealand, Spain, UK, and USA. Many more markets will follow in 2014. The release date for the console was told to me will a very good source a while ago and you can see from this article a week ago. If the date of 22nd November looks like you seen it before that’s because it was the original release date for the Xbox 360 in the USA.

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1GSs6CxTecw?feature=player_detailpage%5D

GeekWire reports Xbox chief marketing officer Yusef Mehdi also confirmed that the custom AMD Jaguar processor powering the Xbox One will be clocked at 1.75 GHz rather than 1.6GHz as Microsoft had previously announced.