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Register for Google I/O 2013 now!

Register for Google I/O 2013 now!:

And they're off! Devs, engineers and the simply curious are, right now, pounding away at their keyboards trying to secure themselves a spot at Google's big I/O event for 2013. The $900 tickets ($300 for a limited number of "academic" passes) are on sale as of 7AM PT / 10AM ET at the source link. Of course, as usual, these babies probably wont last more than a few minutes so act fast. Though, if you miss out on your chance to attend, you can always live vicariously through us.
Filed under: Misc, Internet, Software, Mobile, Google
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Source: Google I/O

Microsoft hit with $730 million fine in Europe over browser choice 'non-compliance' (update: won't appeal)

Microsoft hit with $730 million fine in Europe over browser choice 'non-compliance' (update: won't appeal):

There's so much deja vu here it's almost bewildering, but Microsoft has managed to get itself fined by the European Commission once again for failing to comply with its 2009 commitment to make it easy for customers to choose default browsers other than Internet Explorer. The penalty of 561 million euros ($730 million) isn't the biggest Redmond has faced in its turbulent history with European regulators, but it's still gotta hurt -- especially considering that Microsoft said its latest anti-trust blunder, in which the browser choice screen disappeared for some Windows 7 users, was merely a "technical error".
Update: Microsoft has said it won't appeal the fine and issued the following statement:

We take full responsibility for the technical error that caused this problem and have apologized for it. We provided the Commission with a complete and candid assessment of the situation, and we have taken steps to strengthen our software development and other processes to help avoid this mistake - or anything similar - in the future.

Filed under: Software, Microsoft
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Via: Reuters
Source: Europa.eu

Visualized: MyMultitouch's 84-inch, 4K touchscreen (video)

Visualized: MyMultitouch's 84-inch, 4K touchscreen (video):

Museum owners, public officials and design studio heads are just the sort who would have an excuse to splash out on one of MyMultitouch's displays. The 84-inch PixelSense-esque table is designed to be used by 32 fingers at once, letting groups paw around interactive exhibits on a large scale. This one, in particular, comes with a 3,840 x 2,160 UHD display, infra-red based multitouch and a steel base that lets you mount it at a wide variety of angles. Since it's driven by any PC with a 4K-outputting graphics card, you could even use it as your own desktop display, although you'd need to drop €33,000 ($43,100), plus whatever an 84-inch desk would set you back.

Gallery: MyMultitouch 84-inch multitouch display hands-on

Filed under: Displays
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LG Optimus F5 and F7 smartphones now official with LTE and Jelly Bean

LG Optimus F5 and F7 smartphones now official with LTE and Jelly Bean:

Based on this morning's leak, you already knew that LG's smartphone lineup was about to become more diversified, but now we're able to share concrete details of the Optimus F5 and F7, which will be unveiled at Mobile World Congress. As the naming scheme suggests, the Optimus F7 is the larger of the two with a 4.7-inch (312ppi) True HD IPS display, a dual-core 1.5GHz CPU, an 8-megapixel primary camera, 2GB RAM and a 2,540mAh battery. Meanwhile, the Optimus F5 will be targeted at those who prefer a more compact smartphone, as it wields a 4.3-inch (256ppi) IPS display, a dual-core 1.2GHz CPU, a 5-megapixel primary camera, 1GB RAM and a 2,150mAh battery.
Common among both devices are Android 4.1.2 (Jelly Bean), support for LG's QSlide and Live Zooming software features, a 1.3-megapixel front-facing shooter, 8GB built-in storage, microSD support and LTE connectivity. The Optimus F5 will come to market first in Europe during the second quarter, which is to be followed by the Optimus F7 "in select markets." Sadly, pricing has yet to be announced for either smartphone. For those curious, we've included the complete list of known specs after the break.
Filed under: Cellphones, LG
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Source: LG

Chrome gets app launcher on Windows dev preview, OS X and Linux to nab it soon

Chrome gets app launcher on Windows dev preview, OS X and Linux to nab it soon:

Chromebooks have had the luxury of an app launcher for quite a while, but now Windows users can get in on the action too, provided they download the latest version of Chrome from the browser's dev channel. In order for the launcher to appear in the taskbar, however, those running the fresh release will need to install a Chrome packaged app -- an application written in HTML, CSS and JavaScript that opens outside the browser and works offline by default. Packaged programs aren't searchable on the Chrome Web Store just yet, but folks can code their own or head to the Chromium Blog for a pair of software suggestions. Linux and Mac OS X are penciled in to receive the launcher soon via the dev channel, but there's no word on when it might find its way into a mainstream release of Chrome. Ready to take the feature for a spin? Hit the source link to let Mountain View point you in the right direction.
Filed under: Google
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Source: Chromium Blog

Hulu Plus gets 'Kids Lock' feature on iPad, enhances the experience for little ones

Hulu Plus gets 'Kids Lock' feature on iPad, enhances the experience for little ones:

Hulu's Kids Lock has already been implemented on Android, and now it's time for the children-tailored, itty-bitty feature to make its way to iOS -- well, at least to the iPad. It's rather simple, really: Kids Lock essentially comes in the form of a virtual button on the app, allowing parents -- or whoever's in charge -- to easily secure their tiny loved ones into the Hulu Kids experience. Meanwhile, getting back to the TV shows and movies watched by the bosses of the house is fairly uncomplicated -- all there's to do is enter the account password and bam, all is golden and everyone can go back to watching Parenthood. Aside from Kids Lock, v2.7 doesn't add too much more, save for a few bugs being fixed and some backend enhancements to make Hulu's iOS application more stable overall.
Filed under: Home Entertainment, Internet, Software, HD
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Source: Hulu Plus (iTunes)

Red sues Sony over patents, wants disputed F-series cameras 'destroyed'

Red sues Sony over patents, wants disputed F-series cameras 'destroyed':

We reported that Sony was going "Red hunting" with it's new F-series pro camcorders, but it looks like Red has flipped that scenario. It's suing Sony for allegedly violating two of its patents -- asking for an injunction to stop sales plus an award for damages, and even that that the F5, F55 and F65 models in question be "delivered up and destroyed." The Hobbit camera-maker claims the video cams have "resulted in lost sales, reduced the business and profit of Red, and greatly injured the general reputation of Red." The patents involve Red's implementation of RAW video, but no details were given as to how it thinks those processes were infringed. Anyway, you can now add high-end video cameras to the growing playbill of patent follies.
[Thanks, Andrea!]
Filed under: Cameras, HD, Sony
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Via: Sony Alpha Rumors
Source: Scribd.com

Archos releases free version of Android Video Player, placates penny-pinching cinephiles

Archos releases free version of Android Video Player, placates penny-pinching cinephiles:

While there's no dearth of video playing apps available on Android, French outfit Archos' $5 offering stands out as an especially feature-rich option. For those that shied away from the Archos Video Player just because of the outlay involved however, there's now a free version up for grabs. Supported by ads, it provides all the functionality of its premium cousin, including hardware-accelerated encoding, ability to play network content and online retrieval of movie information like posters and subtitles. Entertainment aficionados can snag the goods at the source link for the unarguable cost of zero, and likely spend the saved scratch on some high-definition bird-slinging action instead.
Filed under: Cellphones, Tablets
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Via: Android Central
Source: Google Play

Satechi releases $40 mini router that fits in a purse, works as a repeater

Satechi releases $40 mini router that fits in a purse, works as a repeater:

If you've ever found yourself stuck in the only corner of a hotel room where the WiFi actually works, then Satechi may be able to get you back to the desk. Its Multifunction Mini-Router not only gives you a private, 300 Mbps WiFi access point from a hotel's wired internet, but functions as a repeater that can distribute a weak wireless signal elsewhere in the room, too. It also works as a standard home router, of course, and even has a bridge mode which lets you take an existing WiFi network and re-transmit it with a different name (and security), useful for combo networks like those in a cafe, for instance. Finally, the client mode lets you plug the Satechi box into a wired device like a Smart TV or set top box to give it WiFi capability -- letting you dodge the hefty freight of proprietary WiFi dongles often not included with such devices. That's a lot of functionality for $40, but if we had you at "WiFi repeater," check the PR and video after the break.
Filed under: Peripherals, Internet
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Source: Satechi

Autodesk 123D Creatures lets you create monsters on your iPad

Autodesk 123D Creatures lets you create monsters on your iPad:

Love Spore's robust creature creator tool? Got an iPad? Autodesk has something for you. The company's latest iPad app, Creatures, is a streamlined monster maker -- allowing users to create the monstrosity of their dreams with relative ease. Abominations start as a simple stick figure, molded, thickened and textured with a suite of tools and lighting effects borrowed from Autodesk 123D Sculpt. Completed works can be exported for a more professional polishing Maya and other Autodesk programs, or sent to Sculpteo for 3D printing. The iPad exclusive app will eventually sell for $7.99, but will be available for $2 during its initial launch period. Skip on over to the rightmost source link to check out the app on iTunes, or read on for Autodesk's official press release.
Filed under: Tablets, Software
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Source: iTunes

Canada's Dextre robot refuels faux satellite from the ISS in first-of-a-kind test

Canada's Dextre robot refuels faux satellite from the ISS in first-of-a-kind test:

Move over, Canadarm. You may have helped the space shuttle fleet repair the Hubble Telescope and build the International Space Station, but there's another robotic tool that's the apple of the Great White North's eye. Dextre, the Canadian Space Agency's dual-armed mechanical "handyman," has successfully refueled a faux satellite from the ISS as part of NASA's and the CSA's joint Robotic Refueling Mission. Not only did the exercise demonstrate how satellites could be juiced up in space and have their lives extended, but the CSA says it's a first for the history books, to boot. Since 2011, Dextre completed a trio of tests to show how it could service satellites that weren't built for being pried opened in space. Late this week, NASA and CSA robotics controllers removed two safety caps from a washing machine-sized mock satellite, snipped two sets of retaining wires and pumped in a bit of ethanol. Sure, you could take a Frankenstein-like approach and cobble together new satellites from old ones, but Dextre's trials indicate there's promise for a proactive tactic that would keep existing hardware humming.

Show full PR text

Dextre Successfully Refuels Mock Satellite and Aces a Major Test for Space Robotics
Longueuil, Quebec, January 25, 2013 - Dextre, the Canadian Space Agency's robotic "handyman" on board the International Space Station (ISS), made space history last night by successfully refueling a mock satellite on the exterior of the station. Topping off the satellite's fuel tank was the pivotal task in the experimental Robotic Refueling Mission (RRM), a collaboration between the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) to demonstrate how robots could service and refuel satellites on location in space to extend their useful lifetime.
For RRM, NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center designed a module simulating a satellite, as well as custom power tools for Dextre. Since RRM operations began in 2011, Dextre has performed three series of tests to show how a robot could service satellites, which were designed never to be opened in space. In this latest set of operations, Dextre removed two safety caps, cut through two sets of thin retaining wires, and finally transferred a small quantity of liquid ethanol into the washing machine-sized module. The latter maneuver was particularly tricky, since handling liquids in space required perfect precision to prevent dangerous leaks. The specialized tools built for the job allowed Dextre to seal the connections between the tool and the fuel valve to eliminate the possibility of leaks. Adding to the level of difficulty was the fuel hose itself, which adds additional forces that tend to pull Dextre's hands. It took the combined skills of the experienced NASA and CSA robotics controllers to pull off this first-of-a-kind space refueling demonstration successfully and without any mishap.
RRM is a significant step in pioneering robotic technologies and techniques in the field of satellite servicing-saving ailing space hardware by refueling or refurbishing them before they become space debris. The ability to refuel satellites in space could one day save satellite operators from the significant costs of building and launching new replacement satellites. With over 1100 active satellites currently operating in the near-Earth environment (many of them worth hundreds of millions of dollars), and an additional 2500 inactive satellites still orbiting around our planet, the savings could be substantial.

Filed under: Science, Alt
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Via: CNET
Source: Canadian Space Agency

PDJ Portable Disc Jockey is a complete DJ system that fits in your pocket, we go hands-on (video)

PDJ Portable Disc Jockey is a complete DJ system that fits in your pocket, we go hands-on (video):

We'll forgive the extremely nice folk behind the PDJ when they claim to have the first fully self-contained portable DJ set-up. But that's not to say that there is nothing new here -- in fact there's plenty. The PDJ is a rectangular slab of refreshing creative optimism. On each end is a touchscreen display that shows a virtual turntable, and in the middle is a small mixing and FX section. So, already the PDJ will be familiar in set-up to any DJ who picks it up (something the Pacemaker couldn't claim with its proprietary interface). The mixer section has rotaries for volume, FX and additional functions (more on this later). The most important thing, however, is the onboard audio interface which crucially means you can monitor in headphones before unleashing your mix onto the world. This sets it apart from pretty much every other mobile app out there that, at best, requires you to use an audio splitter (to the detriment of your sound). Of course, you're going to need some music to play, and there's 2GB of internal storage to let you do just that. If that's not enough, or you want to load up your latest jams right away, there's an SD card slot to let you do just that (up to 32GB). Beyond headphones, there's a line out for connecting it to a sound system, and a line in and microphone jack for adding external sound to the set. The brochure claims it offers 12 hours of battery life too -- rechargeable by mini USB. On the software side, the two virtual turntables respond to touch, and button controls (for cue / play / pause). In addition to the virtual turntable, there are also sample player and one-shot screens. We got out paws on the PDJ here at NAMM, so fade past the break for our impressions.

Gallery: PDJ Portable DJ system hands-on

At about 286 grams, the PDJ is light to hold, but sits in the hand comfortably. Your thumbs naturally find their place hovering above the virtual decks, but the unit it plenty light enough that you can hold it with one hand, while using the other for more dexterous performance manoeuvres. The rotaries and crossfader in the middle section are plastic, but feel solid enough. This is, after all, a lightweight portable device. The LCD touchscreens let you get hands on with your music, as DJs are wont to do, and it's responsive and intuitive enough. Thankfully, most of the key functions (cue, volume, fade, loops etc) have hardware controls too. To reach the extra functionality (more in depth EQ, sample player and so on) you swipe the screen to the left or right accordingly to bring up the relevant screen. It's in these cases when the dual-mode (rotate and click) Function A/B rotaries come in handy, and the interface for controlling these extra tricks is surprisingly natural / responsive.
The PDJ makes the usual claims about being able to scratch and so on. And you can. But as with all these smaller, touch-digital devices, it's more of a party trick than anything else. No biggie though, as the meatier features are the beat sequence and music-pad sections. These let you bring your own audio into your set, trigger samples and build beats and jams on the fly -- much more suitable to a digital device such as this. While we only spent a short time with the PDJ, it's easily one of the most fun devices that we've seen here at NAMM. Purists might malign the constant attempts to shrink and gameify DJing, but we say you're thinking about it too much. Throw one of these in your bag, and the next time you're on the train and want to mix in headphones, or find yourself at a party, the PDJ will suddenly make a lot more sense. How much and when you say? Well expect to pay about $600 for the privilege sometime around late spring or summer.

Billy Steele contributed to this report.
Filed under: Misc, Peripherals
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Mobile Miscellany: week of January 21st, 2013

Mobile Miscellany: week of January 21st, 2013:

If you didn't get enough mobile news during the week, not to worry, because we've opened the firehose for the truly hardcore. This week brought a new smartphone from Xolo to India, HTC's crackdown on a custom ROM distributor and the UK's largest mobile spectrum auction to date. These stories and more await after the break. So buy the ticket and take the ride as we explore the "best of the rest" for this week of January 21st, 2013.

Xolo A500 debuts in India with Android 4.0

A new Android 4.0 smartphone known as the Xolo A500 became available within India this week, and from all appearances, it's entirely run of the mill. That said, with a price of ₹6,999 ($130), it may just turn a few heads. The Xolo A500 sports a 4-inch WVGA (800 x 480) display, along with a dual-core 1GHz CPU (Snapdragon S4 Play) and dual-SIM functionality. You'll also find a 5-megapixel rear camera, along with a front-facing VGA shooter. The device includes a 1,500mAh battery, 512MB of RAM, 4GB of built-in storage and supports microSD cards up to 32GB in size. [Fone Arena]

Ofcom kicks off 4G spectrum auction in UK

The largest mobile spectrum auction to date in the UK began this week, which is set to nearly double the wireless resources available to Britons. In all, 28 lots of spectrum are available across the 800MHz and 2600MHz bands, which will add 250MHz of spectrum to the 333MHz in use today. Telefonica (O2), Vodafone, EE, Hutchison (Three), Niche Spectrum Ventures (BT), HKT and MLL are participants in the auction, which carries a total reserve price of £1.36 billion. According to UK regulator Ofcom, the auction will take place in several rounds over the coming weeks. [Android Central]

AT&T CEO reveals interest in smartphone financing

Verizon's Lowell McAdam now has some company. During this week's earnings call, AT&T CEO Randall Stephenson revealed that AT&T is similarly monitoring T-Mobile's shift to drop the subsidized business model and instead provide customers the ability to finance their new smartphone purchase. While Stephenson may lack grace with his words, the intent is clear: "We expect there to be some dynamics in the marketplace that -- and we'll have to respond to some of it -- we find interesting, like the handset financing that they're doing." Curiously, Stephenson admitted that AT&T has considered the approach in the past, but like Verizon, much of how his company responds will depend on consumers' reception of T-Mobile's new approach. [FierceWireless]

US Cellular now offers carrier billing for online shopping

US Cellular announced this week that it now supports carrier billing for online purchases. The system was launched in partnership with Boku, and subscribers may pay for goods at participating merchants by entering their mobile number at checkout and then confirming the purchase with a text message. From there, customers will find the total amount of the purchase added to their wireless bill. [PhoneScoop]

AT&T working to integrate Data Sense for Windows Phone 8

Data Sense is one of the more unique features of Windows Phone 8, which allows users to monitor their data usage and squeeze more from their data plan through the magic of server-side compression. Verizon is the only carrier to support the feature within the US, but that may soon change, as AT&T has revealed that it's "exploring Data Sense and how to optimize the experience" for its subscribers. About damn time, right? [FierceWireless]

HTC forces shutdown of custom ROM site

A provider of many popular Sense-based ROMs is no more. This week, HTCRUU closed its doors and took its repositories offline in acquiescence to legal threats from HTC. Historically, HTC has taken an admirably lax approach to distribution of customized Sense ROMs, which are popular among enthusiasts of the company's smartphones. Naturally, many other sources exist for custom Sense blends, which raises the question of whether this move was but a one-off showing of legal force, or whether HTC will take a more active approach to ending the underground custom ROM community. Those interested can learn more of the situation on Reddit. [Android Police]

Other random tidbits

• Following in the footsteps of Android and iOS, Microsoft has upped the mobile data cap of app downloads and updates for Windows Phone to 50MB. [WPCentral]
• The Meizu MX2 is now available as a subsidized handset for customers of China Unicom. The smartphone can be gotten for free with all two-year plans of ¥226 or more per month, or with all three-year plans of ¥156 or more per month. [GSM Arena]
• Colombia's state-owned telecom, UNE EPM, announced that it would invest $2.5 million to bring LTE services to Barranquilla -- the country's fourth most populous city -- which sports a population of approximately 1.8 million. [RCR Wireless]
• An internal leak has revealed that the HTC 8S will become available at Bell Mobility on February 1st. [MobileSyrup]
• Videotron has announced that it'll begin selling the Nexus 4 on January 30th. Similarly, Fido is accepting reservations (and a requisite $40 deposit) for the smartphone, which it's targeting for an early February arrival. [MobileSyrup 1, 2]

[Buy More Stuff photo credit: jbhthescots / Flickr]
[Mobile Miscellany photo credit: Thristian / Flickr]
Filed under: Cellphones, Wireless, Mobile
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HTC-made au Infobar A02 launches in Japan, wraps unique Android UI in trippy body

HTC-made au Infobar A02 launches in Japan, wraps unique Android UI in trippy body:

KDDI's funky au Infobar is back! Once again designed by the famed Naoto Fukasawa, this A02 -- co-developed by HTC -- brings the series up to date with Qualcomm's 1.5GHz quad-core APQ8064 (but with just 1GB of RAM), 4.7-inch 720p display, 16GB of storage, microSD slot, 2,100mAh battery, LTE radio (800/1500) and Android 4.1. Better yet, this phone also supports both CDMA2000 800/2100 and WCDMA 850/1900/2100, making it a great global phone. Judging by one of the demo clips after the break, it seems that this Infobar's 8-megapixel main imager (with F2.0 lens) and 2.1-megapixel front-facing camera take advantage of HTC's ImageSense chip for speedy burst shots. Likewise, you'll find Beats Audio built into the system. As per typical Japanese mobile phone, the usual NFC (with Osaifu-Keitai mobile wallet), 1seg TV tuner and infrared are also packed inside the 9.7mm-thick, 147g-heavy waterproof (IPX5 and IPX7) and dustproof (IP5X) body.
We're already fans of the iconic nishikigoi (meaning "brocaded carp") color scheme as pictured above, but what really caught our attention this time are the fluid animations and uniqueness of the "iida UI" 2.0 (iida stands for "innovation," "imagination," "design" and "art") by interactive designer Yugo Nakamura. As you'll see in the video clips after the break, the home screen here shares some similarities with Windows Phone 8's counterpart -- in the way items snap to grid and resize, even though the former is enhanced by plenty of bouncy animation, more colors and funny sounds (designed by Japanese musician Cornelius). Expect this A02 -- which is also available in blue or gray -- to hit the Japanese market in mid-February.

Gallery: HTC-made au Infobar A02 launches in Japan, wraps 4.7-inch screen and quad-core chip in funky colors

Filed under: Cellphones, Mobile, HTC
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Via: Engadget Japanese
Source: KDDI (Japanese)

Samsung GT-N5110 passes through the FCC, leaves a Galaxy Note 8.0-size hole

Samsung GT-N5110 passes through the FCC, leaves a Galaxy Note 8.0-size hole:

Rumors (recently confirmed by company executives) have suggested Samsung would expand its lineup of stylus-packing mobile devices, and this GT-N5110 that just passed through the FCC fits the profile almost exactly. Sporting only WiFi and Bluetooth radios and described as a "personal tablet" it fits perfectly into the size hole between the existing Galaxy Note II and Galaxy Note 10.1 (check out a comparison of the dimensions after the break.)
The model number is also close to the Exynos 4 Quad powered GT-N5100 observed in benchmarks last month and another page in the document indicates it's sporting a matching 1.6GHz CPU. Looking back further, SamMobile spotted a GT-N5100/GT-N5110 certified for DLNA service back in the fall. The diagram listed in the FCC also seems to confirm recent picture leaks that show a device with a center mounted rear camera that looks more like the hot-selling Note II and less like most larger tablets. Hit the source link to dig through the documents for yourself, or just wait for more information which should be revealed in time for MWC 2013.

Filed under: Tablets, Samsung
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Source: FCC

The Daily Roundup for 01.25.2013

The Daily Roundup for 01.25.2013:

You might say the day is never really done in consumer technology news. Your workday, however, hopefully draws to a close at some point. This is the Daily Roundup on Engadget, a quick peek back at the top headlines for the past 24 hours -- all handpicked by the editors here at the site. Click on through the break, and enjoy.

Pebble smartwatch review

After $10 million in funding from Kickstarter, Pebble finally ships to backers, and us...

The Engadget Interview

Don't ask, don't get. That's why we rang up Canonical and requested an early build of Ubuntu for the Galaxy Nexus. (Politely declined.) Next, we asked if maybe the company could speed up development...

Apple drops supplier over underage labor

Apple's latest Supplier Responsibility Report has just been published...

Distro Issue 75

Ever wanted to take off and soar the friendly skies...

You also might like:

• Samsung reports $8.27 billion in profits for Q4 2012
• IDC: Samsung extends lead over Apple in smartphone marketshare, while Huawei and ZTE increase influence
• Dual OS phone with Android and desktop Ubuntu not likely to arrive before 2014

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Samsung plays favorites, blesses Korean Galaxy Grand with quad-core and LTE

Samsung plays favorites, blesses Korean Galaxy Grand with quad-core and LTE:

After being unveiled at the close of 2012, yesterday Samsung announced the Galaxy Grand for its native South Korea. At a glance the domestic build of this handset looks nearly identical to its foreign counterpart, however the device's spec sheet tells a different story. Opposed to a meager dual-core chip and faux 4G connectivity, the Korean version of the Galaxy Grand sports a beefy 1.4GHz processor, along with LTE network support. Additional unique features include NFC capabilities and USB 3.0. Aside from these hometown enhancements, the device's 5-inch WVGA display, dual-cameras and Android 4.1 operating system remain intact. Set to be available on three unannounced Korean carriers at an undisclosed time, potential suitors can pick up this superior version of the Galaxy Grand for 350,000 won (around $325).
Filed under: Cellphones, Mobile, Samsung
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Via: Android Headlines
Source: Samsung (translated)

Researchers build a working tractor beam, on a very small scale

Researchers build a working tractor beam, on a very small scale:

We recently saw research that suggested negative radiation pressure in light could lead to a practical tractor beam. A partnership between the Czech Republic's Institute of Scientific Instruments and Scotland's University of St. Andrews can show that it's more than just theory: the two have successfully created an optical field that flipped the usual pressure and started pulling objects toward the light. Their demo only tugged at the particle level -- sorry, no spaceships just yet -- but it exhibited unique properties that could be useful here on Earth. Scientists discovered that the pull is specific to the size and substance of a given object, and that targets would sometimes reorganize themselves in a way that improved the results. On the current scale, that pickiness could lead to at least medicinal uses, such as sorting cells based on their material. While there's more experiments and development to go before we ever see a tractor beam at the hospital, the achievement brings us one step closer to the sci-fi future we were always told we'd get, right alongside the personal communicators and jetpacks.
Filed under: Science, Alt
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Via: BBC
Source: University of St. Andrews, Nature

Insert Coin: Arduino-compatible Pinoccio microcontroller sports battery, WiFi

Insert Coin: Arduino-compatible Pinoccio microcontroller sports battery, WiFi:
In Insert Coin, we look at an exciting new tech project that requires funding before it can hit production. If you'd like to pitch a project, please send us a tip with "Insert Coin" as the subject line.

It's been said that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. Improving on a good idea, however, is truly the ultimate homage, according to the makers of the new Pinoccio microcontroller. Inspired by the Arduino, the brain trust behind the Pinoccio decided to take the stuff they liked about the popular platform -- ease of programming and low cost -- and add some features to make it even better. These include a rechargeable battery, a temperature sensor and a built-in radio that allows one Pinoccio with a WiFi shield to communicate wirelessly with other Pinoccios. The microcontroller also delivers performance that stacks up well with an Arduino Mega but at a smaller size -- the Pinoccio only measures a couple of inches long and an inch wide. The project is currently trying to raise $60,000 at Indiegogo, with supporters netting the standard Pinoccio by pledging $49 and a microcontroller with a WiFi shield for $99. For more details, feel free to check out the video after the break or peruse the project's Indiegogo page by clicking at the source link.

Previous project update: The Lomography Smartphone Film Scanner was apparently ready for its closeup. The Kickstarter project more than tripled its $50,000 goal with two more weeks to go.
Filed under: Misc
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Source: Indiegogo

Samsung exec confirms 8-inch Galaxy Note coming to MWC

Samsung exec confirms 8-inch Galaxy Note coming to MWC:

The internet has been quietly discussing the possibility of an 8-inch Galaxy Note for a while now, but nothing appeared at CES. However, it might've just been waiting for the right event to make its entrance, and iNews24 is reporting that JK Shin himself has confirmed the Galaxy Note 8 will debut at MWC. Seeming as the Korean news outfit also got word on the S III mini from Samsung's mobile chief before anything was official, we've got no reason to doubt this scoop. If this addition to the Note range is the mysterious GT-N5100 we saw benchmarked recently, it could be packing a 1.6GHz quad-core Exynos processor, and fit 1,280 x 800 pixels in that 8-inch display (the same res as the Galaxy Note 10.1). As JK Shin shared nothing but the screen size for now, we'll just have to wait until MWC to get all the finer details.
Filed under: Tablets, Samsung
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Source: iNews24

LG Optimus G sales hit 1 million worldwide

LG Optimus G sales hit 1 million worldwide:

LG proved with the Optimus G that it can produce a smartphone that stacks up with the best of 'em, and according to the company's newly released sales figures, consumers are starting to take notice. As it stands, more than 1 million Optimus G's have been sold since the handset's September debut. While the figure pales in comparison to heavyweights like the Galaxy S III and iPhone 5, that's not too shabby for a phone that's only been available in North America since November. Given the similarities between the Optimus G and the Nexus 4, we're quite curious to know how sales of the two smartphones compare, but Google's currently keeping those numbers close to its chest. That said, there's little doubt that LG currently has its hands full at the production line.
Filed under: Cellphones, Mobile, LG
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Via: GSM Arena
Source: Yonhap News

Sony selling NY headquarters for $1.1 billion, will rent space from new owners

Sony selling NY headquarters for $1.1 billion, will rent space from new owners:

Despite losing a little less each quarter since Kazuo Hirai took over as CEO, Sony still appears to be looking for ways to cut the fat. Its latest move? Sell the house. Taking a page from Nokia's book, Sony has announced that it has agreed to sell its New York headquarters building to a consortium led by The Chetrit Group. After settling its debts on the building, the $1.1 billion sale will net Sony about $685 million in operating income, potentially giving it the extra cashflow it needs to avoid a negative Q3 earnings report. According to Reuters, the firm may be planning a similar move in Tokyo, which could score Sony another $1.14 billion to balance its budget. Check out the company's official announcement after the break.

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Sony Corporation of America Announces Sale of 550 Madison Avenue Building.
NEW YORK, Jan. 17, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Sony Corporation of America ("SCA"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sony Corporation ("Sony"), today announced that it has entered into a contract to sell its U.S. headquarters building, located at 550 Madison Avenue in New York City, to a consortium led by The Chetrit Group, a New York-based owner of commercial properties in New York City and other major US real estate markets.
(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130117/NY44753 )
The sale price is $1.1 billion, and it is expected that the transaction will close in March 2013. SCA and other Sony businesses (including Sony Music Entertainment, Sony/ATV Music Publishing and Sony Pictures Entertainment, among others) will remain in the building for up to three years under a leaseback arrangement with the purchaser.
After repaying debt related to the building and other transaction costs, it is expected that Sony will receive net cash proceeds of approximately $770 million. Sony expects to realize a gain on the sale of approximately $685 million to be recorded as operating income.
Sony is currently reevaluating its forecast of the consolidated financial results for the current fiscal year ending March 31, 2013 to take into account this sale and other factors that might affect such forecast.
Eastdil Secured advised Sony on this transaction.
1. Reasons for this sale
Sony is undertaking a range of initiatives to strengthen its financial foundation and business competitiveness and for future growth. At the same time, Sony is balancing cash inflows and outflows while working to improve its cash flow by carefully selecting investments, selling assets and strengthening control of working capital such as inventory. This sale is made as a part of such initiatives.
2. Summary of assets to be sold
Assets / Location Headquarters building of Sony Corporation of America
(at 550 Madison Avenue in New York City, the United States of America)

Selling Price $1.1 billion

Book Value Approximately $174 million

Gain on Sale Expected to be approximately $685 million

Current Status Headquarters of Sony Corporation of America
3. Summary of Sony Corporation of America
Trade name

Sony Corporation of America
Address of head office

550 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10022, the United States
Name and title of representative

Michael Lynton, CEO
Business

Management of Sony Group's businesses in the U.S.
Stated capital

$11,316.7 million
4. Summary of Buyer
Trade name

550 Madison Fifth LLC
Address of head office

c/o The Chetrit Group, LLC, 512 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10018, the United States
Contact Information

c/o The Chetrit Group, LLC, attention: Jacob Chetrit
Purpose of incorporation

Special purpose entity to own real estate
Jurisdiction over incorporation

A limited liability company established under the law of the State of Delaware
Date of incorporation

January 15, 2013
Summary of investors

A consortium led by The Chetrit Group, a New York-based owner of commercial properties of various property types in New York City and other major US real estate markets
Relationship with Sony
Corporation

Capital relationship

Sony is not an investor in the Buyer. There is no capital relationship between the Buyer and Sony required to be referred to herein. There is no capital relationship between affiliates of the Buyer and Sony required to be referred to herein.
Personnel relationship

There is no personnel relationship between the Buyer and Sony required to be referred to herein. There is no personnel relationship between affiliates of the Buyer and Sony required to be referred to herein.
Transaction relationship

There is no transaction relationship between the Buyer and Sony required to be referred to herein. There is no transaction relationship between affiliates of the Buyer and Sony required to be referred to herein.
Status as a related party

Neither the Buyer nor its affiliates are deemed to be a related party of Sony.

Filed under: Misc, Sony
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Via: Reuters

'User friendly' XBMC for Android build rolls out for set-top boxes and mobile devices

'User friendly' XBMC for Android build rolls out for set-top boxes and mobile devices:

If you've been waiting to try out XBMC on your Android, it appears now is the time. While beta and nightly builds were already available, the team behind it has finally readied a release it says is "end user friendly," ready to run on most any device. It achieves that feat by offloading video player duties to another app, in this case MX Player, in order to get around XBMC's lack of hardware support for many devices. After sideloading the two necessary APKs we were able to get it up and running without any trouble, tossing in add-ins and playing back locally stored media without a problem. There's a video to go along with the release (embedded after the break) but installing it yourself is probably the best way to get a feel for its video, picture and audio playback abilities.

Gallery: XBMC for Android

Filed under: Home Entertainment, HD
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Source: XBMC for Android