The long-awaited (previously confirmed) iPhone 3G tethering plan for AT&T is coming this week for Macworld, says TUAW. Standard AT&T tether plan pricing: $30/month with a 5GB cap. Who’s excited??? [TUAW]

Remember that proof-of-concept you saw way back in June of last year? You know, that one involving SlingPlayer Mobile for iPhone? Here at Macworld, Sling Media is doing its darnedest to take the spotlight away from the looming Apple keynote by announcing that said app is almost ready for consumption. It’ll be demonstrating a functional version in San Francisco, and it’s planning to submit the software to Apple for certification sometime this quarter. In case you couldn’t care less, it’ll also unveil a prototype SlingPlayer for Mac HD, which will enable Mac-using Slingbox PRO-HD owners to stream high-def material to their Mac. As for the good stuff, pricing has yet to be determined for the SlingPlayer iPhone app, but the SlingPlayer for Mac HD will be made available gratis. Full release is after the break.

Continue reading SlingPlayer Mobile for iPhone, SlingPlayer for Mac HD make debuts

Filed under: Cellphones, HDTV, Home Entertainment, Portable Audio

SlingPlayer Mobile for iPhone, SlingPlayer for Mac HD make debuts originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 06 Jan 2009 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rather than simply adding a new capacity option or throwing another adjective on the end (i.e. Ultra, Xtreme, Gnarly, etc.), SanDisk is actually launching something in the flash drive sector that’s worth paying attention to. The Ultra USB Backup is hailed as the planet’s first USB key with simple backup software activation at the touch of a button, and with capacities up to 64GB, we’d say this is a pretty decent option for keeping your digital paraphernalia backed up sans an external HDD. In related news, the outfit has redesigned the long-standing Cruzer to fall more in line with today’s trends, effectively stripping the retro pastel hues and adding in “iconic new design language developed by global innovation firm frog design.” The new bunch is expected in stores this April, with prices ranging from $24.99 to $99.99 for the Cruzer and $39.99 to $199.99 for the Ultra Backup. Full release is after the break.

Continue reading SanDisk showcases new Ultra Backup / Cruzer USB flash drives

Filed under: CES, Storage

SanDisk showcases new Ultra Backup / Cruzer USB flash drives originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 05 Jan 2009 22:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Watch out, MP3 — you’ve got a formidable opponent creeping up on you. All kidding aside (yes, we were kidding), Fraunhofer IIS is hoping that at least four people will turn from their MP3 / AAC addictions and embrace yet another one of its audio formats at CES, which is simply christened MPEG Surround. Harald Popp, head of the Multimedia Realtime Systems department at the company, has asserted that the firm believes that “MPEG Surround will become a major online distribution format when downloading music, movie and TV content,” noting that it offers “the music industry a way to sell iPod-compatible surround content through the existing stereo download infrastructure.” We suppose the multi-channel aspect is at least somewhat noteworthy, but we still see a hard road ahead for it to gain “global acceptance” in 2009.

Filed under: Portable Audio

Fraunhofer IIS to push MPEG Surround as next big downloadable audio format originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 05 Jan 2009 17:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Kotaku’s put their game of the year awards up, and it’s a pretty good start to building your gaming collection if you’ve just gotten an Xbox 360, PS3 or Wii over the holidays.

Although their categories, like best art, best sound and best innovation may not be a great template for finding a game in a genre that YOU like, it is a jumping board to checking out quality games—which all of these are. We’d definitely go with GTA4, Metal Gear Solid 4, plus Dead Space (if you like shooters). [Kotaku]

You think we’re kidding, but after spending around £800 ($1,164) on Denon’s absolutely stunning AH-D7000 over-ear headphones, are you really about to squeeze your sweaty noggin in there without feeling the slightest bit guilty? The cans, which vaguely remind us of Audio Technica’s ATH-ESW9, tout wooden ear cups made from natural mahogany, microfiber diaphragms, Acoustic Optimizer technology, a cloth-wrapped cable, gold-plated connector, magnesium frame / duralumin slider and leather ear pads. You’ll also get a fanciful box to house ‘em in when you’re not enjoying the sweet sounds of twin 2-inch drivers, but sadly, a set of handcuffs aren’t included for wearing them while waltzing through the occasionally dodgy streets of London. Two more looks are after the break.

[Via TechDigest]

Continue reading Denon’s luxurious AH-D7000 headphones are nearly too pretty to use

Filed under: Portable Audio

Denon’s luxurious AH-D7000 headphones are nearly too pretty to use originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 05 Jan 2009 17:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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More info on LG’s flagship LED-backlit LH95 at CES: Despite being just 24.8mm thick, it apparently crams in wireless HD and HD Divx support. Still no word on its fatass price though. [Stuff.TV via EngadgetHD]

While you and HP can argue the rest of the night away about the most accurate moniker for its Pavilion dv2, the dv3 is definitely an ultraportable. The AMD-powered machine comes in a plethora of configurations with CPUs ranging from 2GHz (Athlon X2 QL-62) to 2.4GHz (Turion X2 Ultra ZM-86), ATI’s Radeon HD 3200 graphics, up to 8GB of DDR2 RAM, 160/250/320/400GB hard drive choices, WiFi / Bluetooth, a dual-layer DVD burner, gigabit Ethernet, an ExpressCard slot and a satisfactory array of ports including three USB 2.0 sockets, VGA, HDMI, eSATA combo (with a third USB port) and audio in / out. Users can select from a six or nine-cell battery, and there’s even an optional fingerprint reader if you’re unashamedly paranoid. Interested? It’s available today, junior, for $799 and up.

Filed under: CES, Laptops

HP greets us with 13.3-inch Pavilion dv3 entertainment laptop originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 06 Jan 2009 00:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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A new study finds that 54 percent of teens talk about sex, alcohol use, and violence on the social networking giant MySpace — presenting potential risks even if all they’re doing is talking.

The CES countdown is nearing its end, and JVC has let loose details on its Japanese site of a prototype LCD TV that will be more waifish than even the most figure-conscious booth babe.

JVC is claiming the world’s lightest 32-inch LCD TV here, and by the looks of this somewhat sparse press release, they’re achieving that with a modular design (meaning, as many components as possible offloaded to a companion box), and a “new optical system” covering the backlight. They’re also pushing the green message with “50% less materials and 10% fewer LCD module parts.” We’ll have more from Vegas in just a matter of days. Yikes, is it really that soon? [JVC Japan (translated)]

JVC Develops Next-Generation Super-Thin LCD Technology
Super Thin and Light at .28 inch (7mm) and 11lbs (5kg)
Energy Efficient LCD Makes Possible Flexible Visual Environments

Tokyo, Japan, January 5, 2009 - Victor Company of Japan, Limited (JVC) is pleased to
announce that it has developed next-generation super-thin LCD technology for 32-inch television
displays. The significant reduction in thickness and weight allow greater flexibility in the design
and layout of commercial and household visual environments.

1. Integrating a new optical system and modular LCD construction, JVC technology has made
possible the companys thinnest and lightest LCD television display at just .28 inch (7mm) in
depth and 11lbs (5kg) in weight.

2. The technology uses approximately 50% less material resources and approximately 10% fewer
LCD module parts than current comparable JVC displays, while maintaining optical, intensity and
low-heat radiation performance. Notably, use of LED as the light source eliminates the need for
mercury.

3. JVC developed new optical elements to realize this new LCD technology, overcoming
technological restraints on thin displays to deliver an energy-efficient, high-resolution display
exhibiting high contrast and luminance uniformity and a wide color palette.

JVC will be exhibiting a 32-inch LCD TV prototype equipped with the technology at a private
venue in Las Vegas, Nevada from Wednesday, January 7 through Saturday, January 10. The
International Consumer Electronics Show (CES), the worlds biggest home electronics exhibition,
is also held at this time.

Two new ones have arrived today from the labs of LaCie, and neither are destined to ever end up inside of your PC. Up first, we’ve got the slightly speedier d2 external DVD±RW drive with LightScribe, which toasts discs at up to 22x and connects to PCs via USB 2.0 or FireWire (400, presumably). For those in need of HDD-based storage, the glossy black Hard Disk MAX comes with a pair of 1TB drives that can be set in either a RAID 0 or RAID 1 configuration with the simple flick of a switch on the back panel. There’s also a USB port on the front for additional expansion, and the USB 2.0 socket ’round back is what links it up with your computer. Both are available right now for $119.99 / $269.99, respectively.

Read - d2 external DVD burner
Read - Hard Disk MAX

Filed under: Storage

LaCie intros 22x d2 external DVD burner, 2TB Hard Disk MAX originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 05 Jan 2009 20:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Is Vudu feeling okay? There seems like little other reason to explain why they’ve slashed the price of their box to $99 straight up, no extra $50 for movie credits or catches. [Vudu via Electronic House]

Lenovo’s IdeaPad Y-series consumer notebooks are all going 16:9 widescreen, teed off by the 16-inch Y650, which is the thinnest, lightest notebook in that class, thanks to carbon fiber.

Rounding out the series are the Y550 and Y450, which are the 15 and 14-inch versions of the same notebook. They’re all LED-backlit, and weirdly, at least according to the spec sheet all have the same 1366×768 resolution. Also bizarre is that the 15.6-inch Y550 weighs more than the Y650—6 pounds to 5.6. Blu-ray and discrete graphics options in all (though not the kind you can turn off or off like in the unibody MacBook Pros or some of Toshiba’s notebooks).

Still, they do start fairly cheap: $1200 for the Y650, $830 for the other two when they roll out in March.

IdeaPad Y650, Y550, Y450 Laptops
Lenovos latest IdeaPad Y Series laptops deliver powerful Hi-Definition entertainment in new sizes that are smaller, thinner and lighter than the previous generation to give more choices to consumers. The three Y Series laptops the Y650, Y550, and Y450 share the same modern soft black design featuring an interlocked hexagon pattern on the top cover along with a discrete copper accent around the perimeter of the laptop.

Lenovo delivers its first 16-inch widescreen laptop, the IdeaPad Y650, to the distinction of being the thinnest and lightest laptop in its class1. In fact, the laptop weighs even lighter than many 15-inch laptops, providing users with an additional inch of screen space without compromising on mobility. Making use of special materials like carbon fiber, as used in the aerospace and automotive industries, Lenovo has engineered the laptop down to a slender one-inch at its thinnest point with a weight of just 5.6 pounds.

The expanded Y Series add three new 16:9 screen sizes: the 16-inch Y650, the 15.6-inch Y550, and the 14-inch Y450 laptops. The new Y Series laptops are configurable with up to 500GB of hard drive storage space and up to 4GB of DDR3 memory.

Designed for HD and Multimedia
To provide an exceptional Hi-Definition entertainment and multimedia experience, the Y Series laptops are equipped with 16:9 format glossy widescreen panels, optional latest generation NVIDIA GFX graphics for gaming and smooth HD video playback and Dolby Home Theater surround sound. The IdeaPad Y650 laptop also features JBL speakers for a rich, resonate sound.

The Y Series includes the new Lenovo OneKey Theater software to enhance the audio and visual experience. By pressing a button, OneKey Theater gives users an easy way to adjust the PCs display and sound effect settings. Users can switch from normal mode to movie mode on the fly to optimize the picture when watching movies or playing games. The Y Series also includes Lenovo Desktop Navigator so users can toggle between shortcuts, files and other frequently used programs just by placing their finger along the touch-sensitive slide bar. For extra convenience, users can simply use the multi-touch touchpad below the keyboard and use their fingertips to enlarge or reduce image size. Additionally, an ambient light sensor on the IdeaPad Y650 laptop automatically adjusts screen brightness based on surrounding light conditions, helping to reduce eye strain.

Lenovo has added new levels of performance to its Y Series by equipping them with the latest Intel processors as well as DDR3 memory to help applications respond more quickly under multi-tasking conditions. Now users can burn DVDs in less time, compress and open large documents more easily and enjoy smoother, more realistic gaming. Y Series laptops have several wireless connectivity options including WiFi and optional Bluetooth.

For added convenience, Lenovos latest VeriFace facial recognition technology combines Windows log-in and file encryption for logging onto the PC and for password-protecting individual files.

The new Y Series also features Lenovos OneKey Rescue System to help users to recover their data and restore critical system files after system failures, viruses and other mishaps.

IdeaPad S10 Netbook
Lenovos IdeaPad S10 netbook an affordable secondary PC for the home or for the first-time PC user is ideal for connecting to the Internet, messaging with friends, completing homework or even making Skype calls. Lenovo is updating the popular IdeaPad S10 netbook with new multimedia and networking tools for social networking enthusiasts ranging from newbies to the most social of socialites.

While many early adopters are familiar with the world of social networking, some mainstream consumers are only taking the first steps. Through a new Lenovo tool called LenovoSocial, that comes preloaded on the netbook, users can easily connect to a resource portal that will help them navigate the vast options for participating in social networking.

Other new features on the IdeaPad S10 netbook include Lenovo Quick Start. With this functionality, users will have the ability to access a number of frequently used applications including a web browser, music player, photo viewer, instant messaging tools and Skype. New to the netbook is Lenovos VeriFace facial recognition technology, a convenient tool for easy log-in. Similar to the IdeaPad Y Series laptops, the netbook features multi-touch functionality on the trackpad and Lenovos OneKey Rescue System.

The new IdeaPad S10 netbooks 10.2-inch LED backlight display, 0.9 inch thick frame and 2.4 pound weight make it an ideal companion to tote in a backpack or shoulder bag. Color choices include black, white, red, blue, or pink.

Pricing and Availability4
The new IdeaPad Y650, Y550, Y450 laptops and S10 netbook will be available beginning in March. Manufacturer suggested retail pricing (MSRP) for models starts at $1,199 for the IdeaPad Y650, $829 for the IdeaPad Y550 and Y450, and $349 for the IdeaPad S10 netbook. The IdeaCentre A600 all-in-one desktop will be available beginning in April with MSRP for models starting at $999.

IdeaPad Y650
16:9 16-inch HD 1366 X 768 WLED type display
Intel Centrino 2 Intel Core 2 Duo processors, 1066 MHz FSB and 6 MB L2 cache, Intel GM45 Chipset, Intel GMA 4500 MHD graphics
Memory - Up to 4 GB, DDR3 800/1066 MHz DRAM
Graphics - Up to Discrete nVidia N10M-GE1/256M GDDR3 VRAM
Storage - Up to 500 GB, 5400 rpm
Battery 3.5 hours with UMA, 2.5 hours with discrete, 6-cell 2000mAH
Weight 5.62 pounds
Dimensions 390 X 260 X 26.1 mm
Intel WiMax/ WiFi Link 5100 a/g/n, 10/100/1000 Ethernet, Bluetooth (Option)
9.5 mm SATA Optical (DVD Rambo, Optional Blu-Ray Combo & Rambo)
Dolby Home Theatre sound
Lenovo Desktop Navigator
Ambient Light Sensor technology
VeriFace 3.5 facial recognition
2 X 2 watt JBL speakers
Integrated 1.3 megapixel USB 2.0 LCD camera
6-in-1 multicard reader
2 USB 2.0 ports, E-sata, RJ45, VGA, Mic-In, Headphone, HDMI, TV, optional 34 mm Express Card slot, mini-PCIe slot (WLAN)
VeriFace 3.5, EasyCapture 3.5, Power2GOBD 5.5 (w/ BD optical support), Power2GO(W/O BD optical support), PlayMovie 1.51.3928(For Home Premium and BD optical), WinDVD(For Home Basic w/o BD Optical ), Dolby control center, OneKey Theater, Napster 4.1.0.4(Only for US), Wild Tangent, Norton Internet Security 2008, Lenovo Energy Management Software 3.1, OneKey Rescue System, Lenovo ReadComm 4.0, Carbonite, Microsoft/Lenovo Portal, Microsoft Office Ready, Adobe Reader 8.1, Windows Live 1.0, Office Ready 2007, Lenovo Desktop Navigator, DDNi (Only for USA)

IdeaPad Y550
16:9 15.6-inch HD/full HD, 1366 x 768 display
Intel Core 2 Duo processors, 800 MHz FSB and 2 MB L2 cache, Intel GM45 Chipset, Intel GMA 4500 MHD graphics
Memory - Up to 4 GB DDR3 800/1066 MHz DRAM
Graphics - Intel GMA x4500, Up to Nvidia NB10P-GE1 w/512 MB GDDR3 VRAM
Storage - Up to 500 GB, 5400 rpm
Battery 4.5 hours with UMA, 3.5 hours with discrete
Weight 6 pounds
Dimensions 385 x 255 x 26-37 mm
Latest 5100 a/g/n wireless, Ethernet, optional Bluetooth
Dolby Home Theatre sound
Lenovo Desktop Navigator
VeriFace 3.5 facial recognition
Touch sensitive controls
One Key Theatre, One Key Rescue software, Easy Capture 3.5, Power2Go, Lenovo Ready Comm 4.0, Win DVD, Dolby control center, Napster 4.1.04, Wild Tangent, Norton Internet Security 2008, Lenovo Energy Management Software 3.1, Carbonite, Microsoft/Lenovo Portal, Microsoft Office Ready, Adobe Reader 8.1, Windows Live 1.0, Office Ready 2007, DDNi
Home Premium SP1 32/64 bit

IdeaPad Y450
16:9 14-inch W LED 1366×768 display
Intel Core 2 Duo processors, 800 MHz FSB and 2 MB L2 cache, Intel GM45 Chipset, Intel GMA 4500 MHD graphics
Memory - Up to 4 GB DDR3 800/1066 MHz DRAM
Graphics - Intel GMA x4500, Up to Nvidia NB10P-GE1 w/512 MB GDDR3 VRAM
Storage - Up to 500 GB, 5400 rpm
12.7 mm SATA optical (DVD Rambo, optional Blu-Ray Combo and Rambo)
Battery 4.5 hours with UMA, 3.5 hours with discrete
Weight 4.6 pounds
Dimensions 340 X 232 X 21-34.8 mm
Dolby Home Theatre sound
Lenovo Desktop Navigator
Touch sensitive controls
VeriFace 3.5 facial recognition
One Key Theatre, One Key Rescue software, Easy Capture 3.5, Power2Go, Lenovo Ready Comm 4.0, Win DVD, Dolby control center, Napster 4.1.04, Wild Tangent, Norton Internet Security 2008, Lenovo Energy Management Software 3.1, Carbonite, Microsoft/Lenovo Portal, Microsoft Office Ready, Adobe Reader 8.1, Windows Live 1.0, Office Ready 2007, DDNi
Home Premium SP1 32/64 bit

Just in case counting every last pico projector on or coming to the market was too easy for you, Nextar’s hoping to boggle your hippocampus by adding one more to the furiously growing list. The outfit’s LCoS-based Z10 is being launched alongside the equally portable PS-001 20-inch screen, and it’ll check in weighing under 2.5-pounds and boasting a 640 x 480 resolution. As for additional specifications, you’re looking at a brightness level between 7 and 12 lumens, a 360-degree lens shift capability with manual adjust and a 4:3 aspect ratio. To its credit, it will accept a litany of file formats and can be fed data via microSD / TF cards, a USB port and L/R audio ports. Both products are slated to hit retailers in the Spring for $299.99 and $39.99 in order of mention, and you can catch two more looks and the full release just after the break.

Continue reading Nextar hops on the bandwagon with Z10 LCoS micro projector

Filed under: CES, Displays, Home Entertainment

Nextar hops on the bandwagon with Z10 LCoS micro projector originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 05 Jan 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Twitter accounts of President-elect Barack Obama, CNN anchor Rick Sanchez, Britney Spears, Fox News and 29 others were hacked Monday according to the microblog site, leading to false and inappropriate messages being posted on their accounts.

Ever since Doc Brown added a Mr. Fusion to the Delorean, many of us have longed to fuel our car with banana peels and beer. Now you can, thanks to the magic of gasification.

Gasification is the use of heat to transform solid biomass, or other carbonaceous solids, into a synthetic “natural gas like” flammable fuel. Through gasification, we can convert nearly any solid dry organic matter into a clean burning, carbon neutral, gaseous fuel. Whether starting with wood chips or walnut shells, construction debris or agricultural waste, the end product is a flexible gaseous fuel you can burn in your internal combustion engine, cooking stove, furnace or flamethrower. Or in this case, your DeLorean. OK, how about a Honda Accord?

Gasifiers are nothing new, but this instructable teaches you how to build a small scale version powerful enough to run your car. Since we are talking about dry organic matter here, I suppose banana peels and beer are out—but fueling up on pinecones is still better than paying for gas. Hit the link for a complete set of instructions. [Instructables via DVICE]

You think we’re kidding, but after spending around £800 ($1,164) on Denon’s absolutely stunning AH-D7000 over-ear headphones, are you really about to squeeze your sweaty noggin in there without feeling the slightest bit guilty? The cans, which vaguely remind us of Audio Technica’s ATH-ESW9, tout wooden ear cups made from natural mahogany, microfiber diaphragms, Acoustic Optimizer technology, a cloth-wrapped cable, gold-plated connector, magnesium frame / duralumin slider and leather ear pads. You’ll also get a fanciful box to house ‘em in when you’re not enjoying the sweet sounds of twin 2-inch drivers, but sadly, a set of handcuffs aren’t included for wearing them while waltzing through the occasionally dodgy streets of London. Two more looks are after the break.

[Via TechDigest]

Continue reading Denon’s luxurious AH-D7000 headphones are nearly too pretty to use

Filed under: Portable Audio

Denon’s luxurious AH-D7000 headphones are nearly too pretty to use originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 05 Jan 2009 17:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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If you are an early adopter like myself, you have probably left a trail of iPods in your wake. This little DIY project is a great way to repurpose those obsolete players as desktop speakers.

All-in-all, the conversion cost around $100, with most of the cost tied up in shipping. In the end, a little soldering, gluing and dremmeling resulted in some sweet looking speakers that would naturally go well with any Mac setup. Hit the link for complete instructions. [Voiding Warranties via Hacked Gadgets via CraziestGadgets]

When the FCC’s Kevin Martin asserted that the 2009 digital TV transition subsidy program was nearing the end of its financial rope back in October, no one really paid him any mind. After all, this ain’t the FCC’s gig. Now, however, an AP report on the topic is confirming the fears, noting that the NTIA itself is “warning that unless lawmakers step in quickly with more funding or new accounting rules, it will have to create a waiting list for coupon requests.” Should this occur, new vouchers would only be sent out once previously mailed vouchers expired without being used. As of now, only $68.2 million of the $1.34 billion set aside for this program remains free, and after February 17th comes and goes, you can bet the interest will skyrocket. Moral of the story? Get your request in now if you’re in need (check here to see if you are).

[Via ShellyPalmerMedia]

Update: The well is dry! Yikes!

Filed under: HDTV, Home Entertainment

Digital TV subsidy program nearly dry: get your vouchers now originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 05 Jan 2009 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Finally ready to give up further details on its 24.8-mm thick LED backlit LH95 (apparently dubbed the LH9500 in the UK), revealing to Stuff.tv we can expect a 55-inch HDTV with wireless HD box included. DivX HD support on the panel itself (sorry, no word about any Netflix streaming abilities just yet) via USB or Bluetooth makes sure there will be plenty to watch on the 2,000,000:1 contrast screen with 240Hz technology. At least on paper, one of the slimmest, best looking LCDs we’ve heard about so far, we’ll see if it impresses in person shortly.

Filed under: CES, Displays, HDTV

LG’s super slim LED backlit LCD packing wireless HD, DivX HD originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 05 Jan 2009 03:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Iomega’s Home Media Network Hard Drive comes in 500GB and 1TB packages for $160/$230 repsectivelya good look, especially when considering the drive’s AFP/SMB support, UPnP/iTunes servers and Gigabit Ethernet.

If you recall our guide to choosing a network-attached disk (something no Gizmodo household should be without), you’ll remember that low-end drives often skimp on features like AFP for Apple networks, etc. Not so here. Good to keep in mind that drives that look good on paper could always have an unseen performance setback (like the Synology drive in our tests), and that these are single-disk models with no RAID redundancy for auto backups. But still, a good value for some quick network storage, as those prices aren’t too much of a premium over a non-networked USB disk at those sizes.

[Iomega]

With the new economical Iomega Home Media Network Hard Drive, consumers can easily share and access photos, videos and music between home computers and other networked devices.

This new network hard drive provides easy-to-use, yet powerful, network storage for the home user and the three step setup is very simple, even if you’ve never used a network drive before.

Home users can save all their digital files to one central location and share them between computers and other networked consumer devices on the home network, including playing back pictures, videos and music from digital media adapters such as game consoles, digital picture frames or high-end TVs.

The Home Media Network Hard Drive also has a built-in iTunes server which automatically feeds music into iTunes for easy playback, allowing users to share one printer over the network, even control which family members have access to certain folders. Plus, home users can secure their digital memories and backup automatically to this device with award winning EMC Retrospect software (PC/Mac) and for extra protection backup online with MozyHome Online Backup service with 2GB free.

The Iomega Home Media Network Hard Drive is available in 500GB and 1TB capacities and starts at just $159.99.
Iomega Home Media Network Hard Drive Features:

Capacity: 500GB or 1TB (both are single drive units)

Simple to use: Three step set-up simply plug into your router, power on, and install the software CD. Friendly web screens for easy management.

Sharing: Access files from any networked Apple computer for easy file sharing

High Performance: Gigabit Ethernet connectivity combined with a high performance processor

UPnP AV Media Server: Compatible with DLNA certified media players, able to stream photos, audio content and videos to a variety of media devices like game consoles, audio bridges, DMAs (digital media adapters), picture frames and more

iTunes Server: Store your audio content in one central location and share it across your iTunes players

Network File Protocols Supported:

CIFS/SMB (Microsoft), AFP (Apple), HTTP 1.1

Expandability: Add storage capacity by connecting external USB Hard Disk Drives. Supports FAT32 and NTFS formatted hard drives

Network Discovery: Automatic network discovery by Apple Bonjour and Microsoft Windows Rally devices

Data Protection: Touch-free professional-level backup for all your critical data with EMC Retrospect HD backup software. Effortlessly back up files on a pre-set schedule

Print Server: Intelligent network print sharing capability for one USB printer directly attached to the Home Media drive

We had a chance to sit down with VIA’s VP of sales and marketing, Richard Brown, earlier today to discuss the finer points of the company’s position in the marketplace. While it was a intriguing conversation (mostly about the state of netbook and smartphone CPUs in 2009), our eye was caught by a prototype netbook he’d brought with him. The ‘book in question is a Nano-driven model that will be sold under the “Dr. Mobile” brand name and dubbed the “FreeStyle.” The system boasts a 1.3GHz CPU (which can be clocked to 1.6GHz), runs atop the VX800 chipset, features an 11.6-inch (1366 x 768) display, a proper trackpad with two real buttons, and sports 802.11b/g, Bluetooth, and optional onboard mobile broadband. Besides having a truly healthy amount of screen real estate for such a small display, the laptop was surprisingly stylish and lightweight — a welcome change from the stream of generic netbooks we’ve seen as of late. The company expects it to clock in at $500 when it hits around February, and says that the CPU outperforms similarly-spec’d Atom chips, with decent support for Vista. We should see a working model on the floor at CES, so keep your eyes peeled for a followup. For now, enjoy the hands-on!

Filed under: Laptops

Nano-powered “FreeStyle” netbook hands-on originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 05 Jan 2009 16:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Answering recent coverage about his health, Steve Jobs has published this letter. Looks like our source was partly right: Jobs’ condition was the a reason for his Macworld no-show. But he will get healthier. Updated

Dear Apple Community,

For the first time in a decade, I’m getting to spend the holiday season with my family, rather than intensely preparing for a Macworld keynote.

Unfortunately, my decision to have Phil deliver the Macworld keynote set off another flurry of rumors about my health, with some even publishing stories of me on my deathbed.

I’ve decided to share something very personal with the Apple community so that we can all relax and enjoy the show tomorrow.

As many of you know, I have been losing weight throughout 2008. The reason has been a mystery to me and my doctors. A few weeks ago, I decided that getting to the root cause of this and reversing it needed to become my #1 priority.

Fortunately, after further testing, my doctors think they have found the cause — a hormone imbalance that has been “robbing” me of the proteins my body needs to be healthy. Sophisticated blood tests have confirmed this diagnosis.

The remedy for this nutritional problem is relatively simple and straightforward, and I’ve already begun treatment. But, just like I didn’t lose this much weight and body mass in a week or a month, my doctors expect it will take me until late this Spring to regain it. I will continue as Apple’s CEO during my recovery.

I have given more than my all to Apple for the past 11 years now. I will be the first one to step up and tell our Board of Directors if I can no longer continue to fulfill my duties as Apple’s CEO. I hope the Apple community will support me in my recovery and know that I will always put what is best for Apple first.

So now I’ve said more than I wanted to say, and all that I am going to say, about this.

Steve

What does this mean? First and foremost, that his health is not declining rapidly now, as our source affirmed. Thank god for that. Like I said in the original article, I hoped our source was wrong about this point, and they were.

The source’s information was probably from earlier in the year. But as Steve Jobs says in his letter, the doctors found the cause of his declining health and he’s now under a “relatively simple and straightforward” treatment. He says he is recovering. That’s excellent news.

But our source was right that a big part of the reason why Steve Jobs is not doing the Macworld 2009 keynote is his health. The letter above states that he’s putting priority #1, his health, ahead of doing the last Macworld Keynote. The truth, as written by Steve Jobs himself, is that he has to recover from a medical condition. He didn’t want to put himself through the ordeal of preparing the keynotethe hardest partand delivering it for two hours. That’s why he decided to take time off with his family and keep recovering.

While there are plenty of other reasons why it makes sense to put other executives on stage — to let the public know that there are other capable people leading apple, for one, or because the products this year are not worthy of Steve’s presentation — none of them make as much sense as this personal decision. Apple PR muscle tried to mislead the public again saying that the entire reason was the irrelevance of Macworld. They said they didn’t want to give importance to a show that Apple was pulling away from.

Other media, actually only CNBC’s Jim Goldman and some followers, railed against Gizmodo saying that Steve’s health had nothing to do with him not showing up for the Macworld keynote:

I spoke to Apple after these headlines crossed and the company, which officially doesn’t comment on rumors, reiterated the reasons it offered two weeks ago: Apple was pulling out of Macworld because the company didn’t see the need to continue its investment in the expo, which included Steve Jobs’ keynote.

While I can understand Apple not telling the truth, perhaps a brilliant journalist and blogging aficionado like Goldman should have known better than trusting Apple’s VP of Worldwide Corporate Communications Katie Cotton, specially when she lied before. On the other side, coming from a guy who writes things like this:

AppleTV, take two, has a real shot. The power of technology. The power of Apple and Steve Jobs.

Well, I’m not surprised.

Anyway, who cares. I’m happy to know Steve is recovering and happy to know that he’s doing fine despite his weight loss and health problems. I’m happy to know that his doctors have discovered the cause now, and he has already begun treatment. Iand everyone at Gizmodowish his recovery process goes perfectly well and that this spring he’s again in top form.

Update: Apparently Jim Goldman is kind of correcting his previous story on CNBC now. He said that if they he didn’t have information that contradicts what Apple is saying, he had to take the company at its word. He’s also saying that Steve can be sick but still be able to function as CEO and talking about people who can “easily step in” as CEO: “There are people who can take over, when…if…he decides to leave.”

[Macworld 2009 coverage]

In case you haven’t noticed, 3D is the topic of this year’s CES. And we’re not talking about 3D HDTVs exclusively — we’re talking about 3D figurines that double as webcams. To be quite honest, the USB 2.0 Minoru 3D Webcam is ripe for a Billy Mays plug, but considering that he’s charging like seven figures per promotion these days, Minoru is settling for the spotlight in Vegas. The device features two cameras spaced “roughly the same distance apart as human eyes” in order to create a stereoscopic effect, and buyers get five pairs of 3D glasses just in case you lose one (or four). For those interested in seeing even more depth in their video chats, you can snag one from Amazon on January 8th for $89.95. Full release is after the break.

Continue reading Minoru 3D Webcam ships this week, still looks freaky

Filed under: CES, Digital Cameras

Minoru 3D Webcam ships this week, still looks freaky originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 05 Jan 2009 16:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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For $7, you can grant your Nintendo DS the fantasy it has kept secret until today: That it could one day charge alongside a Game Boy Advance SP, DSi, and PSP via a USB port.

Hot!

Sure, this cable is from Brando, and could very well toast all your handhelds with questionable craftsmanship, but just think of the tag team fun you’ll grant your Game Boy and PSP on their way out.

Seven bucks to make a handheld’s day. What’s to lose? Oh, it’s Brando. Might ’splode [Brando via DSFanboy]

So, how’s about some news not originating from Las Vegas? Dell has chosen today to take the wraps off of its cleanly styled Inspiron 15 notebook, and while there’s nothing here to write home about, the price accurately reflects the low-key nature of the machine. Prospective buyers will notice a 15.6-inch widescreen panel, up to 4GB of RAM / 320GB of hard drive space, an optional Blu-ray drive, integrated webcam, Intel’s Core 2 Duo powering the ship and optional Bluetooth / facial recognition software. The rig is expected to be available online later this month starting at $600, though impatient souls can find non-configurable versions right now at Best Buy (USA) and Curry’s (UK).

Filed under: Laptops

Dell introduces 15.6-inch Inspiron 15 notebook: starts at $600 originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 05 Jan 2009 15:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Intel’s been talking up the CE 3100 (née Canmore) processor for quite some time now, and with Adobe as its newest partner — late again Yahoo? — pushing HD Flash streams to Internet connected TV’s and set-top boxes. Frankly, we’ve already gotten quite used to YouTube and other online video access in the living room, but with the first Flash Lite-enabled system-on-a-chip due by mid-2009 and everyone and their mom watching TV on Hulu this could be the push that takes online video to the TV mainstream. Still, Intel must know that only Flash support so 2008, we’ll be expecting more widgets to come.

Filed under: CES, HDTV, Home Entertainment

Intel, Adobe plan a chicken in every pot, Flash on every HDTV originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 05 Jan 2009 04:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Even if you can’t afford a luxury supercar like the Audi R8, take solace in the fact that its cutting edge all-LED design will trickle down to your jalopy. Eventually.

Of course we all know efficient LEDs will eventually find their way into every automobile, but the Audi R8 V10 takes the prize for being the first commercial vehicle to sport LEDs in everything. Headlights, running lights, turn signals—you name it there’s an LED shining bright inside.

And not just shining, but “smartly” shining and adapting to the driver’s needs.

Audi developers are convinced that future generations of headlights will react to weather conditions, a vehicles speed, the distance between vehicles, and potentially dangerous objects. Were striving to create intelligent headlights and taillights which think and anticipate in the interest of enhancing a drivers safety and comfort. For example, there are already high-beam headlights in pre-series development which will allow drivers to navigate roads at night without temporarily blinding oncoming drivers. This is made possible by a variable distribution of light: An electronic system continuously calculates the distance to any approaching vehicles to ensure that the road ahead is ideally illuminated at all times without irritating oncoming drivers,” said Dr. Wolfgang Huhn, Head of the Light and Visibility Department at Audi.

Sheesh. You know you’re a luxury car manufacturer when you have a Light and Visibility Department. [Gizmag and Jalopnik]

For those with a whiteboard full of Apple rumors, you’ll been keenly aware of the fact that the whole iPhone Air terminology has been tossed around before in a joking manner. This, however, is not a joke. In fact, it’s a very real KIRF, and it’s possibly one of the most awesome we’ve ever seen. We mean, who’d ever want an iPhone nano when one could have — wait for it — the iPhone Air. Aside from clean, beautiful, streamlined edges, those fortunate enough to procure one from China will also find dual SIM card slots, an FM radio, Bluetooth, a multimedia player and a built-in camera. The KIRF game just got stepped up good fashion, and we love it.

[Thanks, David]

Filed under: Cellphones

Keepin’ it real fake, part CLXXVI: iPhone Air jockeys for “best ripoff ever” award originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 05 Jan 2009 08:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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