Logitech Announce the Logitech Cube

Andrew Edney
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0
Logitech Announce the Logitech Cube

Logitech have today announced the Logitech Cube – a very small mouse and presenter all rolled into one!

Logitech Cube

With its breakthrough design, Logitech Cube redefines the computer mouse with a shape that fits in your hand and will fascinate your friends and family, colleagues and clients.

When used as a mouse, Logitech Cube scrolls when you swipe your finger along the main panel. But lift the Cube in the air—and a moment later it’s in Presenter mode. Clicking the Cube advances to the next slide. Go to back? Simply turn the Cube over in your hand and click again.

Here is the press release:

Mouse Helps You Make an Impression, in a Size That Fits in Any Pocket

FREMONT, Calif. — Jan. 5, 2012 — Once again redefining the way we interact with the digital world, today Logitech (SIX: LOGN) (NASDAQ: LOGI) unveiled the Logitech® Cube. With a unique design that re-imagines what a mouse can be, the Logitech Cube offers everything you want in a mouse, and effortlessly becomes a presenter when you need it.

When used as a mouse, the Logitech Cube scrolls when you swipe your finger along the main panel, thanks to Logitech’s Flow Scroll software that delivers a smooth scrolling experience similar to your favourite touchscreen smartphone.

“With its sleek design, the Logitech Cube catches your eye immediately,” said Todd Walker, brand manager at Logitech. “But it doesn’t stop with distinctive design. The Cube has just the right set of features, whether you’re working through an international flight or making a critical presentation – all in a beautiful tiny package.”

To use the Logitech Cube as a presenter, all you need to do is lift it in the air and moments later it’s in presenter mode. Clicking the top of the mouse advances to the next slide, and if you need to go back simply turn the mouse over in your hand and click again.

And, this pocket-perfect mouse travels light, so whether you’re travelling from your desk to the conference room or taking your computer from the living room to the kitchen you can easily carry your mouse with you wherever you go.

The Logitech Cube also comes with the tiny Logitech Unifying receiver, featuring Logitech Advanced 2.4 GHz connectivity and a small-enough form factor to stay plugged into your computer when you move around. This gives you the reliability of a cord with the convenience of wireless, along with the option to connect up to six compatible devices. Add a keyboard or a number pad, or even another mouse, without the hassle of multiple USB receivers.

The Logitech Cube has been named an International CES Innovations 2012 Design and Engineering Awards Honoree in the Computer Peripherals product category and will be featured in the Innovations Design and Engineering Showcase at the 2012 International CES, which runs Jan. 10-13, 2012 in Las Vegas, USA.

Pricing and Availability
The Logitech Cube is expected to be available in Europe beginning in January 2012. It will be available online only at www.logitech.com for a suggested retail price of £59.99

Refreshing and Resetting Your Windows 8 PC

Andrew Edney
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0
Refreshing and Resetting Your Windows 8 PC

Microsoft have published another article on Windows 8 – this time all about refreshing and resetting your PC.

Win8

This is part of what Microsoft posted:

With Windows 8, there are a few key things that we set out to deliver:

  • Provide a consistent experience to get the software on any Windows 8 PC back to a good and predictable state.
  • Streamline the process so that getting a PC back to a good state with all the things customers care about can be done quickly instead of taking up the whole day.
  • Make sure that customers don’t lose their data in the process.
  • Provide a fully customizable approach for technical enthusiasts to do things their own way.

As we began planning for Windows 8, we asked ourselves: “Wouldn’t it be great if you could just push a button and everything is fixed?” We really wanted to focus on the concept of “push button”, which translated into a design goal that represents a simple to use, predictable, and fast solution. We also wanted to build on the process many people already use today when they need to start over: back up your data, reinstall Windows and apps, and restore your data. The strength of this approach is that you start over from a truly clean state, but you still get to keep the things you care about. With that as the basis of the solution, our goal was to make the process much more streamlined, less time-consuming, and more accessible to a broad set of customers.

Our solution in Windows 8 consists of two related features:

  • Reset your PC – Remove all personal data, apps, and settings from the PC, and reinstall Windows.
  • Refresh your PC – Keep all personal data, Metro style apps, and important settings from the PC, and reinstall Windows.

You can read the rest of the article here. I am really looking forward to getting the Windows 8 beta – not too long to wait now!

Lenovo Announce New ThinkPad Edge and B Series Laptops

Andrew Edney
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0
Lenovo Announce New ThinkPad Edge and B Series Laptops

Lenovo are full of announcements today, now its the turn of their new ThinkPad Edge and B Series laptops.

lenovo-thinkpad-S430

Here is the press release:

New ThinkPad Edge Laptops Fuse Small Business with Lifestyle Computing

Portfolio Includes Essential, Mainstream and Premium Laptops

 

Hook, UK – 5 January 2012: Lenovo (HKSE: 992) (ADR: LNVGY) today announced its new portfolio of small-to-medium business (SMB) laptops loaded with serious business technology and personal lifestyle computing features. The portfolio includes the premium ThinkPad Edge S Series to the mainstream ThinkPad Edge E Series to entry-level laptops in the essential Lenovo B Series, available in select markets. The chic ThinkPad Edge S430 laptop comprises high style and genuine substance with performance technologies and innovations like the latest Intel Core processors and Thunderbolt technology. The ThinkPad Edge 11, 13, 14 and 15-inch laptops include new useful technologies like Lenovo Solution Center to solve common IT tasks, while simultaneously addressing users’ entertainment needs with rich visual and deluxe audio features.

“Small businesses are demanding a laptop that can do it all – they want great performance for work tasks and an excellent experience for their own personal computing,” said Luis Hernandez, vice president, ThinkPad Edge Business Unit, Lenovo. “The new ThinkPad Edge laptops exceed these expectations with extras like a new progressive design, speedy boot up and easy management features.”

Style & Substance to Succeed – ThinkPad Edge S430

Image conscious professionals need look no farther than the ThinkPad Edge S430 laptop. This striking laptop in Mocha Black measures less than one-inch thick and has metal accents, a soft-touch finish encased in an elegant thin and light design.

 

The 14-inch laptop also comes packed with the features SMBs need to succeed, with choices of the latest Intel Core processors, a DVD burner or a second hard drive for up to 1 TB of storage, options of Intel integrated or NVIDIA Optimus graphics, Dolby Home Theatre v4, USB 3.0 ports and Intel Thunderbolt™ technology. With Thunderbolt, users can transfer a full-length HD movie in less than 30 seconds and backup a year of continuous MP3 playback in just over 10 minutes.1 The laptop also comes with Lenovo Solution Center powered by Intel Small Business Advantage, a set of tools allowing remote management for energy savings and deploying updates.

 

Designed to Perform – ThinkPad Edge Laptops

The new ThinkPad Edge 14-inch E430 and 15-inch E530 laptops give SMBs the freedom to choose their level of performance with options of the latest Intel Core processors or AMD Fusion APUs (on the E435 and E535 models) with choices of integrated or discrete graphics. The laptops also feature fast boot up, up to 1 TB of storage that can be combined with solid state drive storage, USB 3.0 ports and a high resolution web camera. The laptop models with the latest Intel Core processors include Lenovo Solution Center powered by Intel Small Business Advantage. The smaller 11.6-inch ThinkPad Edge and 13.3-inch laptops give SMBs the ability to optimise their performance and mobility with the latest Intel Core processors on the E130 and E330 or AMD Vision Accelerated processors on the E135 and E335 laptops.

 

The mainstream ThinkPad Edge laptops has an attractive graphite grey interior with choices of Midnight Black, Heatwave Red or Cobalt Blue covers, featuring the same progressive design of the ThinkPad Edge S430 laptops.

 

Essential Computing – Lenovo B Series

The Lenovo B Series laptops provide entry users the essential technologies they need to affordably accelerate their productivity. Equipped with choices of the latest Intel Core processors (on the B480 and B580) or AMD Fusion APUs (on the B485 and B585 models) along with integrated or discrete graphics, these laptops offer extreme value, starting at just £224. Users can also extend their productivity with features including up to 1 TB of storage, USB 3.0 ports, an HDMI out port and 4-in-1 multicard reader. Like the other laptops with the latest Intel Core processors, the B Series laptops come with Lenovo Solution Center powered by Intel Small Business Advantage.

 

Pricing and Availability

ThinkPad Edge E130/135, E330/335 and Lenovo B480/485, B580/585 Series laptops will be available only in select markets, while the ThinkPad Edge E430/435, E530/535 laptops will be available worldwide starting in April from business partners and on www.lenovo.com. The ThinkPad Edge S430 laptop will be available in June in select markets. Pricing for models starts at approximately £224 for the ThinkPad Edge laptops, £224 for the Lenovo B Series laptops and £480 for the ThinkPad S430 laptop.

Download the Windows Phone 7.5 Training Kit

Andrew Edney
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0
Download the Windows Phone 7.5 Training Kit

If you fancy yourself a Windows Phone 7 developer then you might want to take a look at the Windows Phone 7.5 Training Kit from Microsoft – and it’s free!

Win Phone 7 training

Two sets of hands on labs for Windows Phone 7.5 application development. These are packages that support a full offline installation of the labs that are available live online.

Download the Windows Phone 7.5 Training Kit

Windows Phone OS Updates Start Rolling Out

Andrew Edney
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0
Windows Phone OS Updates Start Rolling Out

The latest Windows Phone OS (OS build 8107) has started rolling out, according to various sources.

WP7_thumb1_thumb

Don’t necessarily expect your Windows Phone to get the update immediately, these things always seem to take ages!

Here are some of the changes:

  • It solves a problem of the keyboard on the screen, preventing the keyboard to disappear while typing
  • Resolves an issue with syncing Gmail
  • It solves a problem of access to the location. After the upgrade, the function IO hub sends to Microsoft anonymous information contact the Wi-Fi access points and antennas for mobile phones in the vicinity, only if you have allowed access to and use of location information from part of the “I’m here.”
  • Revocation of certificates issued by DigiCert Sdn Bhd to solve a problem of encryption
  • Fixes a problem with the e-mail related to Microsoft Exchange Server 2003. When you reply to or forward an email, the original message is now included in the response.
  • Fixes an issue of notification of voicemail

via: WPCentral

Lenovo Unveils First ThinkPad Hybrid Laptop and Company’s First Business Ultrabook

Andrew Edney
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0
Lenovo Unveils First ThinkPad Hybrid Laptop and Company’s First Business Ultrabook

With CES just around the corner, more Ultrabooks are being talked about. Today it’s the turn of Lenovo with their ThinkPad T430u Ultrabook. They have also announced a new ThinkPad X1 Hybrid.

x1-hybrid

Here is the press release:

Hybrid Technology Doubles Battery Life with Instant Media Mode

Hook, UK – 5 January 2012: Lenovo (HKSE: 992) (ADR: LNVGY) today announced the ThinkPad X1 Hybrid laptop, combining the thin, light and performance benefits of its predecessor – the X1 – with double the battery life, up to 10 hours1, via the hybrid’s Instant Media Mode, powered by a second processor and operating system. Lenovo also introduced the ThinkPad T430u ultrabook, the company’s first business ultrabook giving professionals exceptionally thin and light design without sacrificing performance and productivity.

“The ThinkPad X1 Hybrid and T430u ultrabook represent the next generation in thin and light computing,” said Dilip Bhatia, vice president, ThinkPad Business Unit, Lenovo. “From small businesses that literally live their life on the road to corporate professionals working in a managed environment, these new crossover laptops fundamentally change the way people think about mobile computing technology.”

Instant Media Mode – Double Battery Life, Instantly

The hybrid doubles as a second PC thanks to its battery-stretching Instant Media Mode (IMM). IMM includes a Qualcomm dual core processor, up to 16 GB of memory and a custom Linux-based operating system. To switch to IMM from Windows, users simply click on an icon on the laptop’s home screen. With IMM, the laptop operates much like a smart phone, remaining turned on and requiring fewer charging sessions.

Via IMM, users can watch videos, view photos, listen to music and browse the web while preserving precious battery life. Pioneered by ThinkPad, the ThinkPad X1 Hybrid laptop also includes Rapid Charge2, technology that charges the battery up to 80 percent in just 30 minutes.

The Best of ThinkPad X1

Measuring less than 0.6-inches and weighing less than four pounds, the 13.3-inch ThinkPad X1 Hybrid goes heavy on performance by doubling the CPU performance and quadrupling the graphics performance of previous Lenovo 13-inch laptops. The hybrid comes equipped with choices of the latest Intel Core i3, i5 and i7 processors and the Windows 7 operating system.

While a great crossover PC, the ThinkPad X1 Hybrid remains a business-class laptop first with features like optional mobile broadband, a high definition display that includes Corning® Gorilla® Glass and a high definition web camera and microphones for video and voice calling. It also has robust security layered with Intel vPro3 technology, encrypted hard drives with remote management support and a fingerprint reader. Content on the ThinkPad X1 Hybrid looks good and sounds good in both Windows and IMM. The laptop features Dolby Home Theater v4 sound, an HDMI port and Intel Wireless Display technology to connect and stream 1080p video wirelessly to a TV or projector.

Ultrabook That’s All Business

Lenovo’s first business ultrabook, the ThinkPad T430u, equips business users with the same thin and light designs found in consumer ultrabooks without sacrificing business-class performance, and it comes at a mainstream price starting at £544.

The stylish ThinkPad T430u ultrabook borrows some of the elements typically found on premium laptops, such as a matte finish that’s soft to the touch and an aluminum top cover that complement its small – less than 0.8-inches and less than four pound – frame. It also sports ThinkPad’s new modern and minimalist island-style keyboard.

The 14-inch laptop has business-primed features including:

  • Choices of the latest Intel Core processors and Intel integrated or NVIDIA graphics
  • Choice of SSD storage or up to 1 TB of HD storage
  • Up to six hours of battery life
  • Quick resume and fast boot up
  • Lenovo Solution Center powered by Intel Small Business Advantage, a set of productivity and security tools helping to enable overnight energy savings and automatic patch updates

Pricing and Availability

The ThinkPad X1 Hybrid laptop and ThinkPad T430u ultrabook will be available starting in Q2 2012 and Q3 2012, respectively, through business partners and online at www.lenovo.com/uk. Pricing for models starts at approximately £1,025 and £545, respectively.

The Home Server Show Episode 168 Out Now

Andrew Edney
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0
The Home Server Show Episode 168 Out Now

Dave at the guys at the Home Server Show have released episode 168.

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Here’s what Dave has to say about this weeks show:

On the road again. Jim Skype’d in from the road and John and I try to hold it together while we discuss the week’s storage news and give a preview of all we will cover at CES 2012.

As usual you can listen to the show from here.

Apple’s 12 Days of Christmas : Day 11 – Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2012 Book

Andrew Edney
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1
Apple’s 12 Days of Christmas : Day 11 – Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2012 Book

Apple’s annual 12 Days of Christmas continues, and for Day 11 it’s Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2012 Book.

IMG_1194_thumb_thumb_thumb_thumb_thu[1]

You and your friends can download a fantastic selection of songs, music videos, apps and books for free. Each download will only be available for 24 hours. Get our special 12 Days of Christmas app to make it even easier to access your gifts while you’re on the go. Don’t have an iPhone, iPad or iPod touch? Don’t worry. Come back 26 December to download gifts from your computer.

You need to download the app and then each day for 12 days there will be something free.

Day 11 – Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2012 Book

IMG_1224IMG_1225

I wonder what it will be tomorrow?

Microsoft Flight Coming Very Soon Now

Andrew Edney
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0
Microsoft Flight Coming Very Soon Now

Today Microsoft revealed some more information about it’s forthcoming title Microsoft Flight. I for one cannot wait!

04-01-2012 18-39-42

Microsoft Flight Takes to the Skies

Today, Microsoft Studios premiered Microsoft Flight, a PC game that lets players jump into the challenge, fun, and freedom of flight. Microsoft Flight will be available as a free download this spring, giving players the freedom to fly the skies over the beautiful Big Island of Hawaii, complete a variety of exciting missions, test their skills in flying challenges, or find hidden aerocaches on the island.

In Microsoft Flight, players view the world from above in a visually stunning and realistic representation of the earth, complete with region-specific weather patterns, foliage, terrain and landmarks. Players can choose to take the helm using highly rendered, accurate cockpits and authentic piloting procedures, or simply use their mouse and keyboard to control the plane in an exterior view. More experienced players can tailor the flight controls to match their skill level, making Microsoft Flight easy for beginners while still challenging for the most accomplished PC pilots.

“Many people dream of flying, but few have the chance to experience the fun of exploring the world from above. Microsoft Flight provides players the opportunity to explore that curiosity and interest,” said Joshua Howard, executive producer of Microsoft Flight. “Aviation can be incredibly technical, but we’ve taken great care to build an experience that makes taking to the skies thrilling and accessible for everyone.”

Start Exploring For Free

After downloading Microsoft Flight for free, players can jump into hours of exciting gameplay on the Big Island of Hawaii.

In addition, players who sign in to their Games for Windows – LIVE account automatically receive additional free content, including the legendary Boeing Stearman plane, supplementary missions, and access to Achievements and an Online Pilot Profile. Those looking to deepen their experience can purchase and download additional content that adds new aircraft, regions and customization options. The frequently released new content for Microsoft Flight includes daily aerocache challenges and updates that make every flight unique and fun.

Be the First to Fly the Definitive Light Sport Aircraft ICON A5

Microsoft Studios worked with the personal airplane manufacturing team at ICON Aircraft to give aviation fans the exclusive opportunity to fly the all-new ICON A5 before real-world production starts at the end of 2012. Designed by the world-class aeronautical engineers behind the Voyager spaceship, X-Prize winning SpaceShipOne, and Virgin Galatic’s SpaceShipTwo, the ICON A5 is the “jet ski for the skies,” a high-wing amphibious monoplane with a carbon fiber airframe and a comfortable, automobile-inspired cockpit with space for two. The ICON A5 will be the first aircraft available to players for free in Microsoft Flight.

“ICON Aircraft and Microsoft Flight both share the goal of making the fun of flying accessible to everyone who’s ever dreamed about it. ICON does this by fusing world-class product design with the very best engineering, and Microsoft by combining the excitement of a great gaming experience with the authenticity of a top notch flight simulator,” said ICON Aircraft CEO Kirk Hawkins.

Be the First to Experience Microsoft Flight

Today the team behind Microsoft Flight released an exclusive video that features all-new footage of Microsoft Flight. To view it, click on the ‘Video’ tab.

Additionally, sign-ups for beta are still open! Be among the first to try Microsoft Flight by applying for the closed beta at:
https://connect.microsoft.com/site1134/InvitationUse.aspx?ProgramID=6087&InvitationID=FLY-BRQX-BXTB.

The voyage continues at this year’s Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas from January 10 – 13. Those that attend will have the chance to play Microsoft Flight before it releases this spring at the Microsoft booth, located in the Central Hall.

Learn more from the Microsoft website

Siri On Your Windows Phone? That Will Be Ask Ziggy

Andrew Edney
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0
Siri On Your Windows Phone? That Will Be Ask Ziggy

If you are craving Siri like functionality for Windows Phone and more, look no further.

00dc9576-af43-445f-b96d-7f333b087703

According to the developer:

Ask Ziggy is your Personal Assistant that goes beyond Siri functionality.

You can Call, Text, Email your contacts, Update Windows Live, Facebook, and Twitter, Get Weather, Stock Values, Flight Statuses, Get Ziggy to do Math, or ask any question you want (i.e. Who is the tallest person?) all by speaking to your phone.

You can even change the voice from male to Female.

The best thing about Ask Ziggy is that it is completely free!

Check out www.ziggybot.com for help.

3f50c0a9-99b7-4704-951e-ba07adcb912607b8a768-be5c-482b-b3e6-ceee1bece7cd83ad8c22-6c2c-45d6-988c-5709f83723116158b422-2ac0-4c33-bc11-dd49375ab788b149efc9-0465-42fb-9b67-524fd389a9efbf328f57-73b5-4ac0-aa45-c920b9b17f27

Download Ask Ziggy now

Roku Announce the Roku Streaming Stick

Andrew Edney
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0
Roku Announce the Roku Streaming Stick

Roku are famous for making small streaming boxes, but now they have announced a streaming stick for use with SmartTVs!

roku-streaming-sticktvunitoutzoomed

Don’t rush looking for the Streaming Stick just yet though as it is not scheduled to appear until late 2012. No news yet on pricing either, but it is expected to be a similar price to their current boxes.

Here is the press release:

Roku Breaks the Smart TV Mold

New Roku Streaming Stick Integrates “Smart” Experience into TVs Instantly

Saratoga, Calif. – Jan. 4, 2012 – Building on the success of the award-winning Roku streaming players, Roku® today unveiled a new solution to make a better Smart TV. The new Roku Streaming StickTM is a cordless device about the size of a standard USB flash drive that will plug into a TV to instantly transform it into a Smart TV. The Roku Streaming Stick will feature built-in WiFi, processor, memory and software to deliver Roku’s growing collection of streaming entertainment. With these new Smart TVs, consumers will enjoy a fully integrated high-definition streaming experience.

“Insignia is proud to be among the first manufacturers to pair the Roku Streaming Stick with a TV,” said Scott Jacobi, Director of Exclusive Brands at Best Buy. “The Roku Streaming Stick provides an elegant and easy over-the-top streaming solution for customers who want the full experience of a Smart TV without adding an external set box, HDMI cable and power adapter to their TV. Insignia looks forward to rolling out our first MHL-enabled TVs compatible with the Roku Streaming Stick in 2012 at Best Buy.”

“Roku was the first to stream Netflix to the TV and since then has been applauded for delivering a first rate Netflix experience,” said Greg Peters, vice president at Netflix. “Now Roku is taking streaming innovation to the next level and giving consumers a seamless Smart TV experience. The Roku Streaming Stick is a great solution for Netflix because it allows us to deliver the Netflix experience found on the Roku platform to potentially any TV.”

Today’s Smart TVs become outdated in just a couple years because as software changes are made the hardware needs upgrading – that is if the software is even updated. That kind of short hardware product cycle is expected with a mobile device such as a smart phone, but consumers generally keep their TVs for six to eight years. By moving the streaming platform to a stick that’s easily replaceable, consumers no longer have to worry about their large-screen Smart TV becoming obsolete before its time.

“The Roku platform has been extremely successful as a stand-alone streaming device,” said Roku Founder and CEO Anthony Wood. “Extending the Roku streaming experience through the Roku Streaming Stick to Smart TVs is a natural next step for the market.”

“Smart TV manufacturers have struggled to find an application platform that sticks with consumers especially since software is not their area of expertise,” said Kurt Scherf, vice president and principal analyst at Parks Associates. “The Roku Streaming Stick is a game changer for the Smart TV market. It takes the leading streaming platform and integrates into the TV in a way that no one has been able to do The Roku Streaming Stick will not require any cables including a separate power source, and can be controlled by the TV remote. Like Roku players, it will deliver the more than 400 channels found on the Roku platform today and will benefit from regular, free software updates and channel enhancements.

The Roku Streaming Stick will be available this fall. It can be bundled with a TV in retail or sold separately for consumers to use with their own TVs.

The Roku Streaming Stick will plug into MHL-enabled HDMI ports on TVs. MHL is a new standard that uses the HDMI connector on TVs to deliver power and other critical elements for the streaming experience. MHL is currently adopted by nearly 100 hardware and manufacturing vendors including Nokia Corporation; Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.; Silicon Image, Inc.; Sony Corporation; and Toshiba Corporation who are joint founders of the MHL Consortium.

Roku is the leading streaming platform. Since launching the first Netflix streaming player in 2008, Roku has delivered entertainment to nearly 2.5 million streaming players in the U.S. Roku features more than 400 entertainment channels including Netflix, Amazon Instant Video, Hulu Plus, Pandora, Angry Birds and HBO GO. Award-winning Roku streaming players are renowned for their ease of use, value and selection of content. Roku players are sold through leading retailers in the U.S.

Roku is founded by Anthony Wood, inventor of the DVR. For more information about Roku, visit www.roku.com.

Roku and Roku Streaming Stick are trademarks or registered trademarks of Roku, Inc.

ASUS Talk Transformer Prime Bootloader and Ice Cream Sandwich Updates

Andrew Edney
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0
ASUS Talk Transformer Prime Bootloader and Ice Cream Sandwich Updates

ASUS have posted a message on their Facebook page detailing the issues around their bootloader on the Transformer Prime and also when it will get the Android 4.0 ICS update.

asus-transformer-prime

This is what ASUS posted on their Facebook page:

Thank you very much for all of the support you have given to ASUS. Eee Pad Transformer Prime received excellent reviews and great demand when it launched in December 2011. Now, we are continuing to make the Transformer Prime available in the worldwide market, and doing our best to fulfill the incredible demand. ASUS strives to create the best products and provide the best service for our customers, and will be releasing an FOTA update for the Transformer Prime shortly. This update, version 8.8.3.33, will improve the focus of the camera, the fluidity of the touch experience, and the APK capabilities in Android Market.

ASUS has been working hard to make the highly anticipated Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich available on the Transformer Prime, and today, we have good news for you. Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich FOTA worldwide update for the Transformer Prime will start from Jan 12th, 2012. Thank you for your patience and support through this process.

In addition, we would like to address your concerns related to GPS and bootloader on the Transformer Prime.

The ASUS Transformer Prime is made from a metallic unibody design, so the material may affect the performance of the GPS when receiving signals from satellites. Please note that this product is not a professional GPS device, and signal performance can be easily influenced by factors including, but not limited to: weather, buildings, and surrounding environments. Please understand there are limitations when using the GPS function. To avoid inconveniencing users who demand a powerful GPS device, we made the decision to remove it from our specification sheet and marketing communications. We apologize for any inconvenience this has caused.

Regarding the bootloader, the reason we chose to lock it is due to content providers’ requirement for DRM client devices to be as secure as possible. ASUS supports Google DRM in order to provide users with a high quality video rental experience. Also, based on our experience, users who choose to root their devices risk breaking the system completely. However, we know there is demand in the modding community to have an unlocked bootloader. Therefore, ASUS is developing an unlock tool for that community. Please do note that if you choose to unlock your device, the ASUS warranty will be void, and Google video rental will also be unavailable because the device will be no longer protected by security mechanism.

Thank you for all the understanding and support for the ASUS Transformer Prime. Happy New Year!

Do you have an ASUS Transformer Prime? What do you think of it? Let us know…

HP Announces New All-in-One PC and Magic Canvas

Andrew Edney
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0
HP Announces New All-in-One PC and Magic Canvas

Today HP have announced it’s first 27-in All-in-One PC and that it’s renaming it’s TouchSmart software to Magic Canvas.

magic-canvas

Here is the press release:

HP Unveils Its First 27-inch All-in-One PC
New lineup also includes most powerful HP Pavilion PC to date, affordable commercial displays

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 4, 2012 – HP today unveiled new consumer PCs and commercial displays that offer consumers and professionals superb design, performance and convenience.

Launched in advance of the 2012 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES), the new lineup includes:
– HP Omni27 PC – the company’s first 27-inch all-in-one PC, and the first non-touch HP PC to feature HP’s exclusive Magic Canvas software for a truly engaging experience.
– HP Pavilion HPE h9 Phoenix PC – the most powerful HP Pavilion PC to date, it is engineered to run power-hungry applications, such as video editing and games, with ease.
– HP Compaq L2311c Notebook Docking Monitor – built to pair with a notebook PC via its USB port, creating an efficient, comfortable workspace for mobile professionals.
– Affordable HP LV1911 and LV2011 LED Backlit LCD Monitors – delivering intelligent design and reliable business performance at a great value.

Standout style, performance and simplicity

The HP Omni27 All-in-One PC is crafted for consumers who demand meticulous design, enhanced performance and an expanded viewing experience. Its elegant flat-panel display features edge-to-edge glass and tilts up to 25 degrees, allowing users to adjust the 27-inch-diagonal high- definition (HD) screen to their comfort level.

The HP Omni27 features HP Magic Canvas software, enabling users to expand the desktop horizontally to accommodate photos, videos and applications. Microsoft Windows® desktop shortcuts, task bar and start menu can all be accessed through the HP Magic Canvas, so users can work without ever leaving the interface. HP LinkUp lets users access and edit content from a notebook PC on the HP Omni27 PC’s large display with virtually no file transfer hassles.

The HP Omni27 offers multicore processors, advanced HD graphics and up to 2TB of storage. Additionally, features such as Beats AudioTM, HDMI-in, and an optional Blu-Ray disc drive or TV tuner make it the ultimate multimedia machine. Users also can connect the optional HP Pulse Subwoofer to complement the rich sound of Beats Audio and add depth of sound to movies and games.

Attention-grabbing design that exudes power

The HP Pavilion HPE h9 Phoenix is the most powerful HP Pavilion PC to date and offers a cutting-edge design and expandability for users focused on content creation and immersive gaming.

Distinct hardware details, including an armor-plated design that extends across the top and front of the bezel, attention-grabbing lighting and a slanted window on the side of the chassis to see its inner technology, make the HPE Phoenix a standout among desktop PCs. It also offers a valet tray equipped with USB ports for easy access and charging of smartphones, digital cameras and MP3 players. Exclusive features such as HP Magic Canvas, HP LinkUp and Beats Audio offer users the latest in convenience and sound. Users also can enjoy playing “RIFT,” the dynamic role-playing game from Trion Worlds Inc., included at no additional cost with the HPE Phoenix.

The HPE Phoenix includes four dual in-line memory modules (DIMM) to accommodate up to 16GB of DDR3 memory and three internal hard drive bays, while its high-end discrete graphics cards, up to 250W, can support multiple displays and deliver captivating video performance and picture quality. An optional liquid cooling system draws heat away from high-performance processors, helping to protect sensitive components from heat overload and extending the life of the PC.

Convenient display solutions for businesses on any budget

HP also announced the HP Compaq L2311c 23-inch Notebook Docking Monitor, designed to provide mobile professionals with a desktop experience via one easy connection from a USB cable to any notebook PC with a USB 2.0 or 3.0 port.
Ideal for notebook users in shared or permanent work spaces, the Compaq L2311c sports a full HD, LED backlit LCD display panel and features HP Smart AC Technology that powers and charges HP notebook PCs while also detecting and regulating the capacity of the electrical current.

The HP Compaq L2311c efficiently creates an expanded plug-and-play workspace for increased productivity with one USB connection that provides full HD video, Internet connectivity and access to peripherals directly from the monitor’s integrated Ethernet, SuperSpeed USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 ports.

The monitor also features a built-in 720p HD webcam and is equipped with HP MyRoom business edition software and Cyberlink YouCam, a productive webcam tool that eases communication with coworkers and clients in any location.

Also new from HP are the HP LV1911 and LV2011 LED Backlit LCD Monitors, which provide business performance at budget-friendly prices. The LED backlighting employed in all three new displays reduces the number and overall size of panel components for an attractive, slim form factor, while also minimizing power consumption when compared to previous CCFL panel monitors. The HP LV1911 and LV2011 respectively measure 18.5 and 20 inches diagonally and offer VGA inputs, 3,000,000:1 dynamic contrast ratios and 5 millisecond response times.

Pricing and availability

– The HP Omni27 All-in-One PCs are expected to be available on Jan. 8 in the United States at a starting price of $1,199.99.
– The HP Pavilion HPE Phoenix h9 PCs are expected to be available on Jan. 8 in the United States at a starting price of $1,149.99.
– The HP Compaq L2311c 23-inch Notebook Docking Monitor is expected to be available in February in the United States at a starting price of $319.
– The HP LV1911 and LV2011 LED Backlit LCD Monitors are expected to be available in March and February in the United States at starting prices of $125 and $135, respectively.

via: Engadget

I wonder if we will see much from HP next week at CES?

Microsoft Suing Comet Group in UK for Allegedly Selling Counterfeit Windows Recovery CDs

Andrew Edney
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Microsoft Suing Comet Group in UK for Allegedly Selling Counterfeit Windows Recovery CDs

Microsoft today started legal action against the Comet Group here in the UK for allegedly selling counterfeit Windows Recovery CDs.

microsoft

Here is the press release:

READING, England, and REDMOND, Wash. — Jan. 4, 2012 — Microsoft Corp. today issued proceedings against Comet Group PLC for allegedly creating and selling more than 94,000 sets of counterfeit Windows Vista and Windows XP recovery CDs. The alleged counterfeits were sold to customers who had purchased Windows-loaded PCs and laptops.

“As detailed in the complaint filed today, Comet produced and sold thousands of counterfeit Windows CDs to unsuspecting customers in the United Kingdom,” said David Finn, associate general counsel, Worldwide Anti-Piracy and Anti-Counterfeiting at Microsoft. “Comet’s actions were unfair to customers. We expect better from retailers of Microsoft products — and our customers deserve better, too.”

The suit charges Comet with producing the counterfeits in a factory in Hampshire and then selling the media to customers from its retail outlets across the U.K.

Comet is currently owned by French retail company Kesa Electricals PLC, although it is reportedly being purchased by private equity firm OpCapita LLP later this year.

With an emphasis on education, engineering and enforcement, Microsoft seeks to protect its customers from counterfeiting and piracy — and ensure people get what they pay for. If customers ever question the legitimacy of their software, be it a shrink-wrapped product or recovery media, they are advised to visit http://www.howtotell.com to learn more and, if they have any doubt, report the suspicious software to Microsoft.

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