If you want to get your hands on a PlayStation 3 this Christmas, Amazon are doing the 12GB Slim for £119.99 including free shipping.
Why not get one today?
One Piece Pirate Warriors 2 screenshots and trailer released
The Straw Hats Pirates strike back on PlayStation 3 with the sequel of the hit One Piece Pirate Warriors!
Join Captain Monkey D. Luffy and his teammates for crazy new adventures set in the mysterious and dangerous ‘New World’.
The game will also include previously unreleased arcs such as Skypiea and new characters including Eneru for the first time ever on PS3.
One Piece Pirates Warriors 2 will be available in Summer 2013 on PlayStation 3.
In the meantime, check out the trailer below:
Elgato Game Capture HD 1.2 software update brings Live Streaming
Elgato has introduced a new live streaming feature for Elgato Game Capture HD that makes broadcasting gameplay on Twitch easier than ever.
Click. Live on Twitch.
Capturing gameplay is great – but what if you want to entertain your audience in real-time? It doesn’t get easier than with the new Live Streaming feature, built directly into Elgato Game Capture HD. Oh, and in case you’ve wondered: of course you can still simultaneously capture your gameplay while you’re streaming.
Now with live commentary.
Use any microphone that’s connected to your computer, find the perfect balance with your game audio and even automatically lower the volume of your game whenever you speak. With the new Live Commentary feature, all of this is only a click away. Now it’s up to you to think of something brilliant to say.
Retro gaming approved.
We know, you’ve bought Elgato Game Capture HD to capture, well, HD. But now you can also connect your standard definition gaming systems to capture and even stream the glory of ye olde days. The best part? You can use the included component adapter to connect the composite output of your console, and still leave your TV connected via HDMI.
More options. Less clutter.
Just as with the last release, there’s a lot more to this update than we could possibly mention in these few lines. Among those things:
- We’ve tested the Wii U and think it’s awesome, and since it also plays nice with Elgato Game Capture HD via HDMI, you can now specifically select it as an input device.
- If you fancy capturing your iPad or iPhone gameplay, you can now automatically crop the capture to the size of your app.
- With digital gain, you can now better control the volume of your game audio.
- There’s a lot you can tweak – but with collapsible sections and the new tabbed settings window, you’ll see that finding the options you want has never been easier.
The Elgato Game Capture HD 1.2 software update is available as a free download at http://gamecapture.com for PC and Mac.
Win the trip of a lifetime with TomTom and a Via 135 with CDW
TomTom are running a great online competition – TomTom Gives You More – and we’ve teamed up with the sat nav firm to give you an even better chance of winning!
The game gives players the chance to “unwrap the world” and win one of six unforgettable driving adventures, including the Grand Alpine Tour and the South African Garden route. Plus, there are thousands of other prizes to be won every hour.
Just visit http://www.tomtom.com/more to play. Enter the special code: digitalworld_tomtom which will enable you to claim 250 virtual credit coins in the game.
You then pick a route to follow and help Christopher unwrap presents along the way. Once you’ve successfully unwrapped an entire route, you’ll be asked to create and upload a file that explains why you think you should win the holiday. It could be a video, a song, a short story or even a short poem. The most original and fun entry will win the route you just unwrapped.
TomTom has also created a special video for the campaign: watch it here
Win a TomTom Via 135 with us…!
The thousands of runner up prizes up for grabs as you put your virtual unwrapping skills to the test include the TomTom Via 135 Europe sat nav device. And we’re giving our readers an extra opportunity to win one!
The Via 135 has a “Speak & Go” function so you can control it with your voice – just say an address or ‘take me home’ and it plans the route straight away. Bluetooth enables you to make and answer calls safely whilst driving, and advance lane guidance gives clear directions when navigating difficult junctions. It uses travel info shared by millions of drivers to get the best routes and most accurate arrival times, whatever the time of day.
And in a special Christmas promotion, TomTom is offering free maps for the lifetime of the product – worth £79.99. You’ll be able to download four brand new maps every year, totally free, meaning you receive all the latest updates to the road network, addresses and points of interest. Redemption is online with proof of purchase and the promotion runs until 24 December on all TomTom Via models.
For your extra chance to win the TomTom Via 135, just answer the question below:
What is the name of the guy who unwraps the presents in the TomTom Gives You More campaign?
To enter, click on the Contact Us button at the top of each page in the header and let us know the answer by 31st December 2012.
This contest is only open to residents of the United Kingdom – sorry to everyone else.
First correct entry selected at random wins the prize. The editor’s decision is final. No cash alternatives offered.
LG to introduce two new Google TVs at CES 2013
LG Electronics (LG) will introduce an extended Google TV lineup at the 2013 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. LG’s new models GA7900 and GA6400 deliver an outstandingly intuitive user experience at various sizes and new design to meet more consumers’ expectations.
![LG%20Google%20TV[20121224094316033]](https://i0.wp.com/moviesgamesandtech.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/LG20Google20TV20121224094316033.jpg?ssl=1 "LG%20Google%20TV[20121224094316033]")
Google’s latest platform and LG’s redesigned Magic Remote Qwerty work together to enhance the effectiveness of Voice Search and the PrimeTime quick guide. The updated Smart Home also adds to the user experience by offering convenient, streamlined access to VoD, YouTube and more apps. Discovering exciting new content from the rich pool of choices available on LG Google TV has never been easier. Additionally, the premium model will incorporate LG’s advanced CINEMA SCREEN design for an undeniably sleek and modern finish.
“LG is committed to providing diverse home entertainment options that offer the most satisfying user experience and the latest LG Smart TVs with Google TV do just that,” said Havis Kwon, President and CEO of the LG Electronics Home Entertainment Company. “They deliver a stellar user experience by merging the latest Google TV platform with LG’s proven Smart TV technology. The result is a comprehensive system that is groundbreaking in its simplicity.”
LG Google TV aims to redefine the user experience. The platform offers the ease of use that recalls the simplicity of earlier television sets. The new Smart Home offers varied types of “cards” that act as folders for apps and other content. The new My Interest Card can even display useful information including real-time weather and customizable news.
The entire user interface can be navigated using the redesigned Magic Remote Qwerty, which combines a complete keyboard with the convenient benefits of the Magic Remote’s point-and-click control. The enhanced natural language recognition incorporated in the revamped remote is a perfect match with Google’s outstanding search functionality. The overall voice-based capabilities multiply the effectiveness of the PrimeTime quick guide to provide an unparalleled user experience and make browsing through the more than 100,000 available movies and TV episodes on LG Google TV a breeze.
LG Smart TV’s dual core CPU enables easy menu navigation, fast internet browsing and video streaming. The additional processor power allows the TruPicture XD Engine to process images quickly and precisely, resulting in richer colors, deeper contrast and greater overall picture clarity.
And LG has applied its advanced CINEMA SCREEN design to the premium model to offer a sleek, modern look. This design further minimizes width of the bezel, giving the TV a streamlined appearance while creating the impression of a borderless display. Along with the LG Google TV’s unique stand design, it integrates perfectly with interior design of a living room.
The LG Smart TV with Google TV offers superb connectivity options and can connect to a variety of devices wirelessly. With the latest YouTube app update for Android, smartphones and tablets can be automatically paired with Google TV over the same home network via Wi-Fi, making it easy to send videos from your device to your TV.
Gamers will be pleased to know that LG Google TV will offer the OnLive app pre-installed, which transforms the TV into an incredible gaming platform without a console. The app makes hundreds of high quality video games available instantly from the cloud. Also offering CINEMA 3D TV functionality, the LG Google TV employs FPR technology to give movie buffs and gamers a great 3D effect without the distracting flicker.
Merry Christmas 2012 to everyone
From everyone here at CDW we would like to wish you all a very merry and safe Christmas.
So everyone have a safe and joyful Christmas and thank you for making CDW what it is.
VLC for Windows 8 meets Kickstarter target, one step closer to reality
The Kickstater project to bring VLC to Windows 8, including RT, has met its target.
This is how the Kickstarter project is described:
This project’s goal is a fully featured port of VLC media player to the new Windows 8 User Experience. A second release will also add support for Microsoft’s Surface tablets.
VLC media player for Windows is currently installed on about 100,000,000 devices worldwide. The existing version runs on Windows 8’s desktop mode, and is available only for Intel-based PCs. This new port will be natively integrated within the new User Experience and will also support ARM-based tablets in a subsequent release
Similar to the desktop version of VLC media player, you will be able to play all files, all your discs and all your network streams. All of that in a native, beautiful and easy-to-use interface.
In contrast to the built-in media player, VLC for Windows 8 we intend to add support for DVDs and VCDs out-of-the box as well as unencrypted Blu-Rays. All the features known from our current releases will be retained like a full fledged equalizer, video filters and superior support for subtitles.
We will pursue a fully-compliant app for submission to the Windows Store in order to reach as many users as possible, and to provide a consistent installation and update experience.
This fundraiser is run to allow experienced core members of the VideoLAN team to work on this new port full-time. We expect an initial release within three months after finishing the fundraiser. This would not be possible to do with volunteers.
The target was £40,000 and with 5 days still to go, as for 9am UK time, the amount raised is £41,167.
Nice work guys!
Learn more and pledge to the Kickstarter hereAmazon updates Kindle app for Windows 8 and bring in-app store for touch optimized devices
Amazon today updated their new Kindle app tailored for Windows 8.
Customers around the world can now download this free app and enjoy Amazon’s selection of over 1.5 million books at the best prices, including over 200,000 exclusive titles. Kindle books are “Buy Once, Read Everywhere” – customers can read Kindle books on any Kindle e-reader or Kindle Fire, as well as on iPad, iPod touch, iPhone, PC, Mac, BlackBerry, Windows Phone, Android phones and tablets, in web browsers with Kindle Cloud Reader and now on Windows 8 devices.
What’s New
This release includes an in-app store for touch optimized devices along with improvements to the reading and library experiences.
Download now from the Windows StoreHave you downloaded it yet? Let us know by leaving a comment below.
Two Minute review of the Belkin Portable Keyboard Case for the Apple iPad Mini
Having got an iPad Mini I wanted to make sure it was protected and this time I wanted a keyboard too, so I took a look at the Portable Keyboard Case from Belkin, and here is our two minute review.
Designed to provide a better typing experience in a smaller package, the Belkin Portable Keyboard Case combines a removable keyboard and convenient folio in one slim, lightweight design.
Who are Belkin?
From their website:
At Belkin, we make people-inspired products and solutions. For nearly 30 years it has been our passion and our mission to create products that make people’s lives better, easier and more fulfilling. From wireless home networking and entertainment to mobile accessories, energy management and an extensive range of cables; Belkin products enhance the technology that connects us to the people, activities and experiences we love.
Our diverse and far-reaching product mix also includes high-quality security, infrastructure, energy and server-room solutions for public and private sector organisations. Our commitment to innovation, research and design has inspired over 2,000 products and 200 patented designs.
Features
- Well-spaced keys with tactile feedback for accurate typing
- Shortcut keys for easy media control
- Connects to iPad mini via Bluetooth
- Durable exterior and soft inner lining
- Removable keyboard for more comfortable, convenient typing angles
- Keyboard folds flat when not in use, making it ideal for on the go
- 155 hours active battery life
- Includes USB-to-mini-USB cable for easy recharging
- Camera-lens cut-out
What’s in the Box?
- Belkin Portable Keyboard Case for iPad mini
- USB-to-Micro-USB charging cable
- User manual
A Closer Look
Using the Cover
Fitting the iPad Mini into the Portable Keyboard Case was simple.
The top of the case also acts the stand and you can easily adjust the angle to suit you.
Charging is easy, and relatively quick – just connect the USB cable and away you go. The orange light shows that it is charging.
When the iPad Mini is in the case, and its folded up it looks very stylish.
Connecting the keyboard to the iPad Mini is as simple as enabling Bluetooth and following the instructions.
Using the keyboard is great – although it takes a little to get used to as its smaller than I am used to.
Final Thoughts
I really like this case – mostly because of they keyboard, although the actual case part is very good too!
There is a small hole on the back for the rear camera and all the buttons and ports are easily accessible.
Fitting and removing the iPad Mini to case was easily too, as was pairing the keyboard with the iPad Mini. It is also light-weight so carrying it around isn’t going to cause you any discomfort, especially over extended periods.
They keyboard itself is relatively small (it’s the same size as the iPad Mini to give you an idea) and so it takes a little time to get used to typing on it. If you type relatively quickly then like me you will probably make a few little mistakes to begin with (see the picture above to see what I mean). If you are a slow typer, or a single finger typer then you probably won’t have a problem at all.
Belkin claim the battery on the keyboard lasts for 155 hours of active use – so far this claim rings true as I haven’t yet had to recharge it, so I am very happy! I can be safe in the knowledge that as long as it’s charged up or hasn’t been used too much since the last charge that it is going to last me for a long time!
The keyboard is actually stuck onto the inside of the case and cannot be removed – not that this is a problem and actually works very well.
The Portable Keyboard Case retails for £69.99, so it is very reasonable for both a keyboard (which works very well) and also a case, which protects!
Microsoft launch Twelve Steps from Santa campaign for parents
This Christmas, parents are being urged not to miss the critical 24-hour Safe Setup window, as part of a campaign launched by Microsoft to help parents manage safety settings across all the web connected devices in their home, new and old – including PCs, laptops, tablets, games consoles and smartphones.
With UK retailers like Currys & PC World reporting a surge in demand for new technology, Christmas Day 2012 is likely to see more internet-connected devices given as gifts than ever before. However research shows that parents need help to set them up safely and quickly, ideally the moment they come out of the box.
To help parents and guardians activate safety settings within a critical 24-hour safety window, Microsoft has released a Twelve Steps from Santa checklist with twelve easy steps that parents can take on Christmas Day to ensure any new computers, phones or console are set up safely for all the family to use.
So your family has found their way onto Santa’s ‘nice’ list this Christmas, and are now the proud owners of a host of new devices. But you’re not sure how to make them safe to use for each age-group?
Well, here is Santa’s checklist for the simple steps you can take on Christmas Day to give you peace of mind:
- Rip off wrapping in a frenzy or carefully open and fold paper, depending on your family tradition, then set up any new computers or games consoles in a family room. You can use the KNOWHOW tutorials if you get stuck.
- Create separate user accounts for each member of your family as soon as you start up a new PC, laptop or tablet. If you’re not sure how to do this, check out our Your Devices pages for specific advice.
- Add web content restrictions to any new device connected to the internet, including your smartphone – essential when you have as many tiny feet running around the place as I do. You can read my tips on how to do this here.
- Download internet security software onto your new PC or laptop. No, Elf bowling doesn’t count!
- Check the PEGI rating of any new computer games, so you can judge whether the game’s content is suitable for the people in your family. Now, if I can just figure out the age of all our elves this will be a doddle.
- 6Set up timing restrictions on your new games console, so you can control how long games can be played on a daily or weekly basis. Go to the Games Consoles page for helpful instructions on how to do this.
- For online gaming, create user profiles for each member of the family and configure appropriately. This needn’t be as complicated as you think – the Games Consoles page has some useful tips. We tested them on Mrs Claus, and now even she has her own online avatar!
- Enable strict safety settings on the search engines you use on your new computer, laptop or tablet.
- Sit with your young children the first time they use any new console or computer – especially if it is connected to the internet.
- Set up an email address for the whole family. We have one for online shopping to make it easy to keep tabs of any purchases our elves make – they are always searching for the latest workshop tools online!
- Collapse in a heap in front of the Queen’s speech.
- Check out the Safer Online Facebook page for more tips and advice.
Parallels Desktop for Mac updated to build 8.0.18354.823166
If like me you run Parallels Desktop for Mac version 8, then there is an update for you.
This update for Parallels Desktop 8 for Mac (builds 8.0.18354, 8.0.18356) addresses overall stability issues and includes the following fixes:
- Resolves an issue with the built-in camera not working with Windows.
- Resolves an issue with some USB devices not working in virtual machines.
Go download the update now.
Namco Bandai release information on Earth Defense Force 2025
Recently Namco Bandai released information on their forthcoming game Earth Defense Force 2025.
Earth Defense Force 2025 is the long awaited follow-up in the Earth Defense Force (EDF) series from Japanese developer Sandlot. The insects return from dormancy to end humanity with over-the-top action and massive city-levelling explosions that will entrench the EDF and the citizens of Earth into a state of emergency.
Earth Defense Force 2025 is an action shooting bonanza that arms players with their choice of EDF soldier classes equipped with more weapons ever in the series and the elite training to exterminate menacing insects of all sizes in the global quest to protect the world from alien invasion.
Featuring tons of missions, making it the most ever seen in the series and the first to feature four-player multiplayer on home consoles, Earth Defense Force 2025 is an all-out battle against the terrifying ravagers that have come back stronger than ever in their mission to destroy the planet. Be prepared to heed the warnings of the upcoming insect raid in 2013 for the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3.
So what do you think of Earth Defense Force 2025? Let us know by leaving a comment below.
Sony sells 30 million PlayStation 3 consoles across Europe and the PAL territories
Sony Computer Entertainment this week announced that the cumulative sales of the PlayStation 3 reached a milestone of 30 million units Europe and the PAL territories as of December 17, 2012 – less than six years after the platform launched in 2006.
The PS3 system has delivered high quality, award-winning entertainment experiences since its launch. Throughout its lifecycle, the PS3 system has continued to evolve with more streamlined design, larger Hard Disk Drive (HDD) capacity, and new features through software updates. In September 2012, SCE launched the new PS3 system, which has a reduced volume and weight of more than 50 percent compared to the original PS3 model, and of 25 percent and 20 percent respectively compared to the slim PS3 model launched in 2009. The new PS3 has been well received by consumers around the world.
Along with the introduction of PS3 in November 2006, SCE launched PlayStation Network, which now operates in 59 countries and regionsaround the world. PlayStation Network supports free community-centric online gameplay, exclusive games from independent developers and major publishers, and a broad range of entertainment applications across movies, music, and sports. PS3 owners can access 170,000 downloadable digital content including 57,000 game content worldwide from PlayStation Network. In October 2012, SCE redesigned PlayStation Store for PS3, offering a more streamlined and accessible store experience, including a stunning new user interface, simple search, and powerful content discovery. The new store is now available in Europe and North and Latin America with more countries and regions to follow.
PlayStation Plus, the subscription service package on PlayStation Store that offers exclusive benefits such as discounts on games or online storage for game saves, started to offer an “Instant Game Collection” in North America and Europe in July 2012. The Instant Game Collection enables PS Plus members to enjoy popular titles from third party developers and publishers as well as SCE Worldwide Studios at no extra cost. SCE has also enhanced the content offering for PS Plus members in Japan in November.
Assassin’s Creed III and Assassin’s Creed III Liberation On-Sale with the PlayStation Network Flash Sale
Assassin’s Creed III and Assassin’s Creed III Liberation is available in Ubisoft’s first-ever PlayStation Network Flash Sale – so grab yourself a bargain while you can.
The following items are included in the sale:
• Assassin’s Creed III – 35% off
• Assassin’s Creed III Liberation – 35% off
• Assassin’s Creed III Gold (full game and season pass) – 35% off
• Assassin’s Creed III Gold & Assassin’s Creed III Liberation – 50% off
The sale is now available in North America (United States, Canada and Mexico) and is only available this weekend.
Check out our review of Assassin’s Creed III here Check out our review of Assassin’s Creed III Liberation here