Tuesday, April 24, 2007

Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 or Nintendo Wii, what is better

Here are three top consoles nowadays that you can choose from. Sony PlayStation 3 the next generation console that continues a glorious path of PlayStation and PlayStation 2. Xbox 360: the next console from Microsoft is created in continuation of Xbox. Finally Nintendo Wii the least expensive and shows the least performance.


So we are going to review and compare them on several parameters, so that you can decide which is better for yourself.

Hardware

Xbox 360 is on the second place by hardware parameters. First of all there are two models that you can buy. One of them is a regular white Xbox 360 with wired controllers and no hard drive. The upgraded model has wireless controllers and a 20 GB hard drive to save photos, videos and audio files. It also has a standard DVD optical drive that allows the console to show HD videos. The last thing that should you should be notified is that Microsoft will upgrade your Xbox 360 for free for it to support full GD 1080p video output.

Sony PlayStation 3 is on the first place if judged by hardware. It has Blue-ray drive that is not available on basic or premium Xbox 360 (You can buy it for additional $ 200 which makes Xbox 360 cost just like PS3.) Besides, the 20 GB hard drive comes in basic model and 60 GB drive comes in upgrade model. Besides the premium version of PS3 has WiFi built in.

Nintendo being the least expensive has the worst hardware built in therefore it shows the least productivity among Xbox 360 and PS3. It has a DVD drive but there is no ability to play DVD movies on it. However, it has WiFi built in to surf the web.

Games

Xbox 360 and PS3 are somewhat even in this classification because the number and the quality of games that are out there on the market are pretty even. PlayStation 3 is supposed to be better in graphics however there are still no games that would show the full possibility of this console.

Xbox 360 will run most of the games that have been created for Xbox but not all of them. On the other hand PlayStation 3 will run all the games of PS and PS2. However, these possibilities will have only the North American and Japan versions of PS3 but not the European version.

Nintendo supports all the games made for earlier consoles: GameCube, NES, SNES and Nintendo 64. However the graphics quality of the games is not that good as it is in Xbox 360 and PS3 games.

Multimedia

First of all I would like to say that Nintendo does not support of big movies playback or storage, so we will leave this console out of this part of comparison. Although you can view photos, MPEG and QuickTime movies, MP3 music files on this console; and all that only from SD storage.

The real battle comes between the two mega consoles: Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 here. Fist PS3 was the only console that supported full HD, 1080p, but now Microsoft will upgrade all the Xbox 360 consoles to the same HD. So that evens them out.

Blu-ray drive gives an advantage to Sony PlayStation 3 in storing videos and any files on the disc as they can store much more info and a better game will fit on a bigger Disc.
HD Media Center Extender of Xbox 360 beats PS3 in everything that they can offer. It can show live and recorded HDTV over your network, besides it can download movies and TV shows from the web. The other thing that gives Xbox 360 an advantage is a support of Apple's iPod and Sony PSP. It is the only console that supports video and audio streaming from PC.

Audio support: PS3 has a 5.1 Dolby Surround sound which is not bad until you hear that Xbox 360 has a Multi-channel system that supports up to 256 discrete channels. Wii on the other hand supports Dolby Pro-Logic II.


Smooth Creations Diablo

Custom Desktop

The Diablo is now unleashed. Now from Smooth Creations you can get every peripheral you wanted with your system painted to match! We will apply the same high quality paint job that comes with our computers to everything you order. We will paint the interior of the system, your LCD, speakers, mouse, keyboard, even an iPod to match! All of these items also come with the same warranty that is provided with your new system.
Chassis
The Diablo is built in a custom edition of the CoolerMaster Stacker. This case provides a great canvas for graphics and artwork for your system as well as providing plenty of room on the interior to support the fastest hardware available.

Window and Lighting
Want to show off whats under the hood? Get a colored window and light it up! We will etch our Smooth Creations logo into the window (optional), and load it with enough lights to brighten things up.

Paint
Included with the purchase of any Diablo system is a single color paintjob and minor graphics work. We even paint the interior of the case for you. You can choose any color you imagine and we can bring it to life on your system. We will also incorporate a minor graphic such as our "Stitch" theme which is in our Gallery.
Interested in going all out on your graphics? You can really spice up your system by adding any level of custom graphics. Anything you can think up, our artist can make a reality on our systems. Contact us for pricing and time estimates for custom graphic work.

Graphics
Bring your gaming performance to a new level by equipping your Diablo system with the latest in graphics technology! If it is available, you can put it into your system!

Painted LCD Display
Purchase a LCD display with your system and we will paint it to match. Your LCD will be covered under the same warranty as your system.
Processor
The Diablo case can handle even the hottest of processors. Choose the best solution that fits your needs.

Water Cooling and Overclocking
Want to get even more out of your system? Get it water cooled and overclocked! We will overclock your system here at Smooth Creations and run it through a gauntlet of torture test to ensure it is 100% stable when pushed to the edge.
Memory
A wide array of memory is available, choose the size and speed that best suits your system. If you are getting an overclocked system, the higher memory speeds are better to achieve the highest in overclocking.

Networking and Communications
Make sure your system is equipped with everything you will need to connect to any network needed. Available are options for both wired and wireless networking.

Drives and Storage
Take up to four hard drives in a RAID configuration for a boost in speed and storage capacity. You can choose the RAID option that best suits your needs. Capable of RAID 0 (striping, faster performance) and RAID 1 (mirrored, data protection), the Specter can be tailored for many different applications. Graphic artist doing work projects on their laptop would probable select RAID 1 to protect their work from data loss, whereas gamers would opt for RAID 0 to get their system even that much faster.
Select any combination of optical drives you desire. Looking at backing up a lot of media, combine a pair of Dual Layer DVDRW drives for reliable backups. Need to label all your disc for later, get a drive with Lightscribe technology!

Sound Solutions
There are a lot of audio solutions available for the Diablo. Select the sound card that best fits your needs for gaming, music, or movie watching.
Painted Speakers
Get a sweet set of speakers painted to match your new system. Your speaker setup will be covered under the same warranty as your system.
MP3 Players
Like to take music and video on the go? Get a Video iPod with your system and we will spice it up with a paintjob that matches your computer. We will even paint your docking station if you choose to get one.
Software
Your system comes preloaded and preconfigured with your choice of the latest Windows operating system. Your software load will be streamlined for maximum performance.
Want a specific application installed on your system. We will install any game or program you have for you. We will patch it to the newest possible version and make sure it works on your system. Just send in the software package and save yourself the time.

System Recovery
Your system will include a system recovery disc that will allow you to restore your system to factory defaults. With this tool, your can return your computer to the state it was in when you removed it from the box for the first time.

System Warranty
The Diablo includes our Smooth Creations 1 year desktop system warranty. Included with this warranty is our desktop upgrade service. This warranty also covers all peripherals that are purchases with your system.

You have the option to extend your warranty to a period of three years. This extension will cover all peripherals purchased with your system.


Radia Cell Phone

As cellular phones become a standard, the statement they make as a symbol and a fashion accessory has become increasingly important. The Radia phone concept expresses simplicity in form and sophistication in function and user interface. The outer rim, which is made of brushed aluminum makes both a refined professional statement.

The touch-display is large enough to read and display many types of information, yet small enough to maintain a pocket-sized device. Simplicity is also expressed in the power button, which is flanked by the earpiece speaker, and balanced by the microphone which is 180 degrees around the perimeter.

Floating pictures in a magnetic frame..

Imagine your pictures just floating around your room, amazing view huh? This is still impossible nowadays but you can make one or two pictures floating around a small magnetic field of this gadget.

An electromagnetic photo frame can hold your pictures floating in the air. It has a very clever system of holding it in place, "in the frame". It has a magnetic field sensor that is situated on the top and has a microprocessor and all the needed electronics to calculate the distance between the photo and the frame.

The photos will always be in place no matter what happens because the magnetic field is automatically changed to not let it fall. Of course if you don’t drop it on the floor or something like that.

This gadget can hold up to two pictures in oval shape and it measures 4.88 x 3.27 inches. Not big but still cool. The entire frame will is 6.69 inches tall.

As the pictures float freely in the air they react on every small breeze of air. This why the pictures almost always turn around so you will be able to see both photos that are in the frame. Smart, huh?

Another smart thing is that if the electricity is off or when you turn off the magnetic photo frame there is a magnet on the bottom of the frame that will hold the photos on the frame.

Last but not the least; the frame has two LED lights that will illuminate your photos. The lights can glow in different colors so you can give some special effects to the photos in the frame.

High tech style is modern now, and you can make your room even better with this high tech electromagnetic photo frame. Having a cool gadget costs a lot, and this particular one costs.

LCD Glasses : Personal Home Cinema

If to you has bothered to look video, films or to play games on small screens of portable devices, we recommend you to pay the attention to glasses iCuiti AV230 as a variant of the decision of this problem. Liquid crystal glasses or as still they can be named, personal носимый the monitor, are capable to transform the small display of your handheld computer, a portable mediaplayer or the portable game console in big 44-inch ” a house cinema “. And AV230 manufactures of the company iCuiti.

Characteristics iCuiti AV230:
- two LCD-displays the sanction 320ù240 pixels (230 000 pixels), equivalent to the screen a diagonal of 44 inches on distance of 3 meters from the spectator;
- 24-bit color (16 million colors);
- independent fine tuning of each eyepiece (from +2 up to-5 dioptries);
- a corner of sight - 23 degrees;
- distance from an eye - 18.9 mm;
- distance between eyepieces - 59 mm;
- the built in accumulator providing till 5 o’clock of continuous work;
- built in high-quality demountable
The complete set together with glasses includes a handbag for transportation, miniUSB (110-220) with USB a socket, cable USB / MiniUSB, a cable-splitter, a cable-splitter of type “tip”, the instruction of the user.
The important question is cost which makes on different data on similar devices, from 250 up to 349 $

Gamers Go Wii, Wii, Wii All the Way Home

As rumors swirl that Sony is planning price cuts for its PlayStation 3, Nintendo continued to lead the market for next-generation console sales in March with its low-cost Wii.

According to the NPD Group, consumers in the U.S. bought 259,000 Wii consoles in March, increasing the first-quarter total for its new model to 1.03 million. The sales helped to double first-quarter console shipments in the industry.

Overall, console and portable player sales rose from $659 million to $1.3 billion in the three months ended March 31, NPD reported. Microsoft's
Xbox 360 ranked second last month with sales of 199,000 units, while the PlayStation 3 sold a mere 130,000, less than half the number of Wiis that consumers took home.

House on Fire

NPD's report is becoming a familiar one. Since Nintendo introduced the Wii last November, the console has outperformed both Sony's PlayStation 3 and Microsoft's Xbox 360 products.

The Wii's performance is typical of Nintendo's historical success patterns, according to Mike Goodman, an analyst at Yankee Group. "Nintendo comes out like a house on fire and gets off to a good start, but it doesn't have legs for the long haul," he said, noting that Nintendo's target market -- youth and nontraditional gamers -- is much smaller than the potential market for Sony's PlayStation 3.

Nintendo has turned heads with its innovative wireless controller, called the Wiimote, that lets players simulate movements of characters in the games. Gamers can swing virtual golf clubs, tennis rackets, or fishing poles, for example. Other games let players wield a virtual orchestra baton or drumstick. But analysts sometimes say the device does not have wide appeal to hard-core gamers.

The Price Debate

This week, speculation emerged in the gaming world that Sony is preparing to slash the price of the PlayStation 3. Sony answered speculators on Thursday when it publicly stated that it has no specific plans to reduce prices.

"PS3 prices and shipment plans for the future should be determined by market trends and competition," the company said in a statement. However, news reports from the United Kingdom indicate that some retailers are selling the consoles for �37 ($74) less than the suggested retail price in an attempt to spark sales.

"Unless Sony cuts $200 of the price of the console, a price cut is not going to make a big difference in the marketplace right now," Goodman argued, explaining that Sony is hard pressed to make significant price cuts until it sells enough units to achieve the scale that can drive prices down. "It's the classic Catch-22," he said.

Long-Term Play

Many analysts believe that, long-term, Sony will be a winner in this generation of consoles with its PlayStation 3. The
PlayStation 2 is still leading overall console sales, selling 280,000 players in March.

And PlayStation 2 gaming titles are still performing well in the market, demonstrating that the games are an important element in the equation. According to NPD, the best-selling title this year is Sony's "God of War II" for the PS2, with 833,000 units sold. Nintendo's "Wii Play," by contrast, came in second with 644,000 units.

Video game related sales rose 54 percent in the first three months of 2007, to $3.3 billion, NPD said.


Sunday, April 22, 2007

Blu-ray


Blu-ray, also known as Blu-ray Disc (BD), is the name of a next-generation optical disc format jointly developed by the Blu-ray Disc Association (BDA), a group of the world's leading consumer electronics, personal computer and media manufacturers (including Apple, Dell, Hitachi, HP, JVC, LG, Mitsubishi, Panasonic, Pioneer, Philips, Samsung, Sharp, Sony, TDK and Thomson). The format was developed to enable recording, rewriting and playback of high-definition video (HD), as well as storing large amounts of data. The format offers more than five times the storage capacity of traditional DVDs and can hold up to 25GB on a single-layer disc and 50GB on a dual-layer disc. This extra capacity combined with the use of advanced video and audio codecs will offer consumers an unprecedented HD experience.


While current optical disc technologies such as DVD, DVD±R, DVD±RW, and DVD-RAM rely on a red laser to read and write data, the new format uses a blue-violet laser instead, hence the name Blu-ray. Despite the different type of lasers used, Blu-ray products can easily be made backwards compatible with CDs and DVDs through the use of a BD/DVD/CD compatible optical pickup unit. The benefit of using a blue-violet laser (405nm) is that it has a shorter wavelength than a red laser (650nm), which makes it possible to focus the laser spot with even greater precision. This allows data to be packed more tightly and stored in less space, so it's possible to fit more data on the disc even though it's the same size as a CD/DVD. This together with the change of numerical aperture to 0.85 is what enables Blu-ray Discs to hold 25GB/50GB.



Blu-Ray is presently supported by its inventor, Sony, and Dell, Hitachi, Hewlett-Packard, Panasonic, Pioneer, Philips, Samsung and other IT equipment producers. But, as the format will have a big word to say in the movie industry, the movie studios supporting it are also important. So far, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer and Walt Disney declared their support for Blu-Ray. The format had also two of the major game companies announcing their support: Electronic Arts and Vivendi

Overall, the figure behind this association, with Apple the most recent joining member, is around 450 billion USD. But things are not very clear. The movie studios support is not exclusive, so if the rival format manages to get ahead sooner, we may witness important forsakings.


Beyond the financial aspects, Blu-Ray is a more important technological development compared to the DVD. The laser ray used for reading CDs and DVDs belongs to the red spectrum, with wavelengths of 708, respectively 650 nm.

Blu-Ray uses a blue spectrum laser (violet-blue, in fact), which operates on a wavelength of 405 nm, meaning a bigger quantity of information can be written on the same surface as a CD/DVD.

But the minimum "spot size" that a laser can be focused is limited by diffraction, and depends on the wavelength of the light and the numerical aperture of the lens used to focus it. By decreasing the wavelength (moving toward the violet end of the spectrum), using a higher dual-lens system, and making the disk thinner, the laser beam can be focused much more tightly at the disk surface. This is, in a few words (in addition to the optical improvements), the technological advancement proposed by Blu-Ray.

The protecting layer for CDs and DVDs (cover layer) is 0.6 mm. in thickness, while Blu-Ray's cover layer is only 0.1 mm. thick, which, roughly, means a better access to the recording area.

The advantage? On the same 12 cm. surface (standard dimension of a CD/DVD), 25 GB of data can be stored (single layer), which translates to 2 hours of HDTV video and audio content. And this, with MPEG-2 encoded data, the same as for DVDs.

And while using MPEG-4 H.265/AVC or VC-1, a codec derived from Windows Media 9, up to 4 hours of HDTV content can be stored.
The transfer rate for such a disc is 36 MB/s, compared to the 5MB DVD can provide, and Blu-Ray discs 2x (72 MB/s) are already under study.

And Blu-Ray is not going to stop here. 100 and 200 GB discs are under study, evolving from dual-layer to 4 or 8 layer.

T-Mobile Sidekick iD

BELLEVUE, Wash. – April 13, 2007 – T-Mobile USA, Inc. today announces the new T-Mobile® Sidekick® iD, offering the latest in personalization on a communication device at an accessible price of $99.1 Designed to include the spontaneous communication features synonymous with the iconic brand, the T-Mobile Sidekick iD also offers spur-of-the-moment personalization with easily removable and replaceable exterior panels.

Sidekick iD

The customizable exterior of the T-Mobile Sidekick iD provides quick modification of the outside of the device with fashionable colors to match anyone’s style, mood or that evening’s outfit. Inside the device, customers will feast on the famous buffet of communications capabilities that make it simple to stay directly connected with family and friends, or stay on top of their favorite social networks and other Web sites.2

The T-Mobile Sidekick iD is designed for virtually anytime, anywhere communication through voice calling and a robust variety of options for messaging-based communication. The signature swivel screen is designed to be a large, color window into one’s own personal life. The screen moves to reveal the full QWERTY keyboard providing the luxury of staying connected through the always-on access to e-mail, instant messaging (AIM®, Yahoo!® and Windows Live Messenger), and text messaging.

“The T-Mobile Sidekick has always been about freedom of expression and communicating with style,” said Greg Andrews, director, marketing, T-Mobile USA. “With the T-Mobile Sidekick iD, we’re expanding on the theme of individuality by increasing the personalization aspect and providing pricing that is accessible to a wide range of consumers.”

The T-Mobile Sidekick iD will have T-Mobile’s myFavesSM available out of the box. The unique myFaves experience provides additional customization as the home screen contains images of the five people that matter most or are called the most often. The myFaves interface also enables access to a straightforward communications menu for effortless calling, texting, multimedia messaging and e-mail. Customers can choose from a range of myFaves plans to get unlimited calling to those five designated people — to any number in the U.S., even land lines (excluding toll-free and 900 numbers) — that make up their personal network.3

Sidekick iD

Key features of T-Mobile Sidekick iD include the easily personalized hardware to express individuality and style as well as the following:
  • T-Mobile Sidekick’s signature swivel screen with a large landscape color display (2.4-inch screen with 65K colors and 240X160 pixels) for improved viewing of Web pages and contacts
  • A full HMTL Web browser with enhancements for faster downloading and optimized viewing2
  • Beneath the screen, a full QWERTY keyboard ideal for speedy instant messaging and other text-based communication
  • Dedicated support for three major instant messaging clients (AIM, Yahoo! and Windows Live Messenger) with the ability to hold up to 10 IM conversations at one time to stay constantly connected to a social circle
  • Support for personal e-mail with a dedicated “t-mail” account or use of an already existing personal e-mail account
  • Inclusion of myFaves for additional personalization and the benefit of unlimited calling to any number on any network, including landlines, to stay connected to the five people who matter most
  • A convenient trackball for one-handed navigation and an improved gaming experience
  • A speedy ARM9 processor to handle the massively multitasking communicators
  • Replaceable battery with up to 5.3 hours of talk time and 6 days of standby
  • Dimensions: 5.12 x 2.48 x 0.87 inches; 6.2 ounces with standard battery
  • Accessories available in black, yellow, blue, white, purple and glow-in-the-dark

The T-Mobile Sidekick iD will be available for $99.99 (with a qualifying two-year contract and mail-in rebate) at T-Mobile retail locations and online at www.t-mobile.com beginning April 25. For more information on T-Mobile Sidekick, please visit www.sidekick.com


24ct Golden iPod

iPod skins and laser etching are so bourgeois. If you are down with the Gizmodo, you know the only way we roll is in gold. That's why we are happy to present Amosu's new line of 24 carat gold (plated) iPods. Covered in hardened mirror gold, users can stare triumphantly at their beautiful, golden visage while rocking out to the new [fill in harp pop star of choice].

So how much will a golden iPod set you back?

30GB = $600
80GB = $800

Their Nanos don't seem to be listed.

I know what you are thinking—"that's way less than my golden sunglasses/yacht/pet cost me". The only downfall is that the face is not covered in the glorious godmetal, so onlookers from certain angles will think that you are just some middle class hobo. Just flash them your best gold-toothed smile and they'll know who's boss.

Nokia N95

With the introduction of the N-series phones, Nokia started offering devices with advanced multimedia capabilities. N90, Nokia's first phone with Carl Zeiss optics was a hint about the company's intentions of creating a device which one day can substitute a stand-alone camera from the mid-class. With time, the top-level Nokia models have continued to use the same optics while also have developing better software and image sensors, thus raising the megapixels. The N73 came out. But Nokia decided that a 3-mega pixel resolution and brand-name optics are not the only thing, which a top-of the-line multimedia phone should be able to do. N93 demonstrated an optical proximity /zoom/ and video recording with resolution allowing “ TV quality of the picture “- 640 x 480 pixels at 30 frames per second. This turned the phone not only into a camera, which you can always bring with you, but also to a comparatively small camcorder to record those precious moments.


Nokia N95 is the logical heir uniting the previous models in one, making it the top-model in the line for 2007. N95 combines the positive features of a few top-models and it is a multi-functional device with standard size. For its design, the slider form-factor of the N80 has been borrowed along with with some features of the N73. The camcorder offers the same capabilities as the one in N93 and the camera is again with Carl Zeiss optics, but this time with the enviable 5-megapixels. But this is not all. In its pocket dimensions the telephone embrace Symbian operating system typical for all Nokia smartphones and among its feature we have no choice but to mention a 3G HSPDA high-speed connection, a Wireless Lan /WiFi/ and a build-in receiver for localization (GPS). Whether N95 is really this unbelievable phone, offering so much in such small package, you will read in the review below.

The sales package of Nokia N95 demonstrates that it is a device of the highest technological and price class. In the box you will find wired remote control controlling the music features, stereo headphones, a cable for connection to a computer and another one for connection to a TV set in order for you to view your photos and videos on a big screen. There is also a charger, user manual and a CD with software. Most boxes lack a carrying case, while the Malaysian version has a very nice leather one along in 1GB of microSD memory.

Monday, April 16, 2007

PSP ® ( PlayStation ® Portable )

The PSP® (PlayStation® Portable) system is the first truly integrated portable entertainment system designed to handle multiple applications – music, video, photo, internet, and wireless connectivity, with games as its key feature. The PSP® system features an unmatched library of entertainment content, combining more than 135 games and more than 430 feature films, TV programs, and videos on UMD™ from major studios and record labels, as well as downloadable content from the internet.

Multiplayer
Choose whom to play, where to play and when to play - two multiplayer modes let you take on the world or just your buddies.

Enhancements
Make your PSP® go further. Watch recorded TV with TiVoToGo™. Watch live TV wirelessly with LocationFree® TV. Connect to the internet with T-Mobile.

Evolution
The PSP® is constantly evolving with exciting new features in each system software update.

Official PSP® Website on your PSP®
Discover the potential that internet access brings to your PSP® by checking out the Official PSP® Website directly from your PSP®. This site is designed exclusively for the PSP® screen and browser, and is updated daily with new and exclusive downloads including trailers, interviews, screenshots, wallpapers, as well as info on the latest games, UMD™ MOVIES, news, and upcoming events. Get started now by setting your PSP® internet browser to psp.us.playstation.com.

Features :

Play Games

Play games anywhere with your PSP®.

Multiplayer Gaming

Play online with people across the globe or compete against players on nearby PSP® systems.

Watch Movies & Videos

Watch your favorite movies on UMD™ or saved/downloaded videos in a variety of formats.

Listen to Music

Enjoy saved/downloaded audio files in many popular formats as well as streaming RSS audio.

View Photos

Take your photos everywhere you go and in a variety of file formats.

Go Online

Go online play games, browse the internet and more.

source

Sunday, April 15, 2007

Sidekick iD

Designed to reel in aspiring hipsters with its summer-job-friendly price point, the $99 Sidekick iD is best defined by what it lacks when compared with its pimped-out bigger brother. Unlike the $100-more-expensive Sidekick 3, the Sidekick iD doesn't give you MP3 playback, a digital camera, Bluetooth, or an expansion card slot. What's left is a fun but underpowered messaging device for IMing your buddies and surfing the Web, one that can be personalized with colored removable exterior panels.


The Sidekick iD's back-to-school vibe continues with the return of the SK3's rubber bumpers, which can be interpreted as insurance on Junior's new phone. The device itself, without the bells and whistles, sports nearly identical measurements to that of the Sidekick 3, although the iD is 0.3 ounces lighter. The trackball remains, but it feels a little flimsy and unwieldy compared with the BlackBerry Pearl's; thankfully, rumors that Danger would omit the directional pad proved false, so you can jump around the menus with that. (View Photo Gallery.)

The iD's keyboard is essentially the same as the SK3. The plastic keys are a bit slippery but nicely spaced, and we were able to fire off texts and IMs quickly. The iD's holdover 2.4-inch screen has the same resolution and sports the same number of colors as the SK3; it's not very bright, but it gets the job done. As far as those external customization options go, the multicolored bumpers-available in black, yellow, blue, white, purple, or glow-in-the-dark for $19.99-provide a nice stylized touch. Replacing them is a bit of a nuisance, though. You have to remove two panels on the back along with the battery just to get at them.

Text-based communication is the Sidekick iD's main selling point. You get three integrated instant-messaging services: AIM, Windows Messenger, and Yahoo Messenger. We had no problems setting up a POP3 e-mail account, but T-Mobile includes a preconfigured e-mail account for technophobes. Text-messaging performance was quick, with just a second or two of delay between sending and receiving. E-mail delays ran about one minute or less. “Instant” messaging proved to be a frustrating experience, with delays ranging from a few seconds to a full minute before recipients got our IMs.

The iD does include a full HTML browser, but you're stuck with a sluggish GPRS data connection. (Seriously, T-Mobile, how much would it cost to add EDGE?) We noticed that most pages not designed for cell phone browsing suffered extra-long loading times. The New York Times Web site, for instance, took 18 seconds to start loading and more than two minutes to load completely. The rock band My Chemical Romance's MySpace page also took well over a minute to load.

On the other hand, mobile pages like Google Mail and Facebook took only five to ten seconds to pop up. Navigation sites such as Yahoo Maps loaded in less than 30 seconds, and as an improvement over the SK3, most map images displayed legibly. We also downloaded a few ringtones and sound effects in just a few seconds. Downloading games like PumpJack, Casino, and Pac-man took significantly longer.

As a phone, the Sidekick iD is as awkward to use as the SK3, but we like the integration with T-Mobile's myFaves service, which allows users to make calls to any five people on any network, with plans starting at $39.99 per month. We also appreciate that you can quickly send a text message, e-mail, or instant message to any of those five contacts by simply clicking on their image. However, without an a built-in camera, creating your myFave favorites will take some work.

Coverage around Manhattan was good during our tests, and we had no problems sending text messages or making calls. While outdoors, voice quality was adequate; callers reported that we sounded clear. Indoors, however, we lost a few calls, and Web connectivity was inconsistent. Danger did manage to improve the battery life on the SK iD; you get 5.3 hours of talk time-almost an hour more than the SK3-and double the standby time at six days.

At $99, the Sidekick iD does seem worth it for cash-strapped heavy messengers. The features T-Mobile did manage to cram in work adequately, but the lack of multimedia perks and EDGE data will probably turn off a lot of prospective buyers. If you really need the street-cred, though, we'd advise saving up for the Sidekick 3. But if you want a better multimedia messaging device, go with the comparably priced MOTO Q.

Check out the Sidekick iD photo gallery, now.

Toshiba Launches 17-inch Laptop For Under $1000

The Satellite P-Series might be known for its gaming prowess, but there are low-end versions that can serve as affordable media solutions as well. This weekend, Toshiba launched its Satellite P205-S6237, delivering an eye-full of screen real estate(17-inches worth) to those with a pauper's budget. This $999 laptop is not the first 17-inch model to hit the 3 digit mark: The Acer Aspire 9300-5005 has already done it with its 17-inch screen behemoth, but it loads a low-end AMD Turion X2 TL-50(1.6Ghz) processor. The P205's Intel Core Duo T2080(1.73Ghz) is not that much better in the performance department, using last year's Intel technology, but It gives you 1GB of RAM and integrated graphics, enough to run Windows Vista. At least the Acer has discrete graphics using the nVidia GeForce Go 7300. Surprisingly, Toshiba is already starting to integrate Intel's WiFi Link 4965AGN with 802.11n support. The wireless chipset will be part of Intel's forthcoming Santa Rosa platform. Other features include a built-in webcam and 1440x900 native resolution on the 17-inch screen.

For those looking for a little bit more, the $1,199 version, or the Satellite P205-S6267 will bump last year's Intel processor to a 1.83Ghz, while adding 2GBs of RAM instead of one. Both the $999 and $1,199 will feature a DVD drive with LabelFlash technology built-in. LabelFlash is an etching technology that burns images onto specialized media without the use of ink cartridges. It's practically identical to HP's LightScribe technology, which came out first with its monochromatic lasers. You can use an application like Nero to create an image that fits onto the DVD. This image is then burned on by flipping the DVD to the side where the specialized coating resides. But wait, there's more....



Satellite A205In addition to P205s, Toshiba is also launching new models to the A-series. The Satellite A205-S4577 may not have as big of a screen as a P205, but the 15.4" screen might do a better job with portability. It weighs 6.29 pounds and features Toshiba's Onyx Blue metallic lid. In other words, it's shiny. By bumping down the screen size, you can now get today's Intel technology via an Intel Core 2 Duo T5300(1.73Ghz) processor and 1GB of RAM. Graphics are still integrated, but you do get the same cool features as the P-Series, including 802.11n support, integrated webcam, and a DVD burner with LabelFlash technology. All of this for a basement price of $999.

source

Thursday, April 12, 2007

Protect Those Gadgets with Pacsafe Travel Bags


If you find yourself walking in a Grand Theft Auto-like neighborhood where the crime rate is astronomical due to violence induced by video games, I'd suggest looking into security travel bags from Pacsafe. Even if you're not gallivanting in the bad part of town, bags like the MetroSafe 300 feature an eXomesh interlocking security system to help keep your gadgets where they belong.

The main problem I've found with many other gadgets aimed at protecting your electronics is that no matter how locked down something may be, it's pointless if a thief can just walk away with the whole thing or cut their way through. Pacsafe remedies that with built-in combination locks that allow you to anchor the bag to a secure location and then lock it in place. SlashGuard panels on the bottom and front of the bag also prevent various forms of cutlery from getting to your gadgets and laptop, as well as slashproof belts, straps and cables. Although, if they use one of those infomercial knives that cut through shoes I'm sure all bets are off. Tamperproof zippers and compartments round up the bevy of security features.

eXomesh protection doesn't stop at just protecting laptops either. Courier bags, tote bags and a variety of purses - which don't look bad at all - also benefit from eXomesh technology. Of course, if you do find yourself on the end of a very sharp knife I doubt slashproof technology in your bag will be of much comfort.

Source



JB1 007 James Bond Stealth Digital Camera




Memory: 8mb stores up to 150 pictures @ 640 x 480, or up to 310 pictures @ 320 x 240 resolution
Lens: f=4.45mm F2.8
Interface: USB Plug-n-Play
Power: 1 AAA battery (included)
Dimensions: 2.25 x 1.5 x 0.5in
Weight: 2.1oz.

What makes this camera spy worthy is the fact that it is disguised as a Zippo style lighter. It is housed in a metal case with a flip cover. The only problem is that the manufacturers must have missed their stealth training... they plastered a sticker on the front of the lighter that tells the world that it is a James Bond camera.



http://www.the-gadgeteer.com

Pink Zune released on Friday the 13th


Zune-Online is reporting that the pink Zune is to be introduced to polite society tomorrow. That's Friday 13th.

Now then, this could mean three things: one, that Microsoft have a, like, hulaaaaarious sense of humour; two, it's utter bollocks and I should go back to my day job of sexing chickens; or three, that the rumours are true.

The rumours being that the pastel-colored machines are indeed made from the flesh of zombie nympho piglets. One way to check - scratch the screen and see if you draw blood or not. You may smell bacon as well.

www.zune-online.com

MYLO : NEW POCKET SIZED COMMUNICATOR FROM SONY IS ALL PLAY AND NO WORK


This product is designed for people who use instant messaging as a primary form of communication and networking for their social life. The name mylo stands for “my life online” and the communicator lets you use instant messaging, browse the Internet, listen to music, send emails and view photos concurrently.

Small enough for a pocket or purse, the slim, oblong-shaped device features a 2.4 inch color LCD (measured diagonally) with a slide out QWERTY keyboard for comfortable and quick thumb typing.

The device, available in black or white, comes embedded with popular instant messaging services: the Google Talk™ instant messaging service, Skype and Yahoo! Messenger™. These services are free and the product does not require initial computer setup or a monthly service contract.


Stop, Look and Listen

While you chat or browse the Internet, the 1GB of the flash memory on the mylo personal communicator lets you enjoy your music too. It supports the playback of MP3, ATRAC® or WMA (secure and unsecure) files. The mylo communicator has a built-in speaker for listening to music so you can share your music with those around you. You can also view MPEG-4 personal videos by transferring files via USB cable or with Memory Stick Duo™ media. You can also store JPEG pictures from the Internet or your digital camera.

Providing networking possibilities without a wireless network, the mylo personal communicator detects when it comes into the presence of other mylo units. With the ad-hoc application, you can share play lists and stream music between mylo communicators one at a time.

Gotta Keep Up

To support all of this functionality, the mylo device uses a lithium-ion battery that offers up to 45 hours of music playback, around seven hours of chatting and web surfing and more than three hours of continuous Skype talk time. It comes with a microphone, stereo headphones, a USB cable and a neoprene case.

For more information about the product, go to http://www.sony.com/mylo.

Wednesday, April 11, 2007

iPhone


iPhone combines three amazing products — a revolutionary mobile phone, a widescreen iPod with touch controls, and a breakthrough Internet communications device with desktop-class email, web browsing, maps, and searching — into one small and lightweight handheld device. iPhone also introduces an entirely new user interface based on a large multi-touch display and pioneering new software, letting you control everything with just your fingers. So it ushers in an era of software power and sophistication never before seen in a mobile device, completely redefining what you can do on a mobile phone.

iPhone is a revolutionary new mobile phone that allows you to make a call by simply pointing your finger at a name or number in your address book, a favorites list, or a call log. It also automatically syncs all your contacts from a PC, Mac, or Internet service. And it lets you select and listen to voicemail messages in whatever order you want — just like email.

Multi-touch

iPhone features the most revolutionary user interface since the mouse. It’s an entirely new interface based on a large multi-touch display and innovative new software that lets you control everything using only your fingers. So you can glide through albums with Cover Flow, flip through photos and email them with a touch, or zoom in and out on a section of a web page — all by simply using iPhone’s multi-touch display.
Intelligent Keyboard

iPhone’s full QWERTY soft keyboard lets you easily send and receive SMS messages in multiple sessions. And the keyboard is predictive, so it prevents and corrects mistakes, making it easier and more efficient to use than the small plastic keyboards on many smartphones.

iPhone features a rich HTML email client and Safari — the most advanced web browser ever on a portable device — which automatically syncs bookmarks from your PC or Mac. Safari also includes built-in Google and Yahoo! search. iPhone is fully multi-tasking, so you can read a web page while downloading your email in the background over Wi-Fi or EDGE.

source : http://www.apple.com/iphone