Panasonic prices and ships its first media streamers, newest Blu-ray Disc players

PANASONIC ANNOUNCES PRICING & AVAILABILITY FOR ITS 2013 BLU-RAY DISC™ PLAYER LINEUP

Panasonic Introduces Two New 3D-Capable Players Featuring Wireless Capabilities for Added Content Viewing

SECAUCUS, NJ (April 9, 2013) – Panasonic, a major developer and contributor to the success of the Blu-ray format, announced today pricing and availability of it 2013 Blu-ray Disc Player lineup which was unveiled last month at the 2013 International Consumer Electronics Show. The line-up features two new Full HD 3D models (DMP-BDT330 and DMP-BDT230) and two 2D Blu-ray Disc Players (DMP-BD89 and DMP-BD79) as well as continuations of two successful Full HD 3D 2012 models (DMP-BDT500 and DMP-BBT01).

All four of Panasonic's 3D-capable Blu-ray Disc models include Panasonic's proprietary IPTV platform, VIERA Connect1, while the 2D models feature IP VOD - a service that offers access to a limited, though targeted, selection of popular sites including Netflix, HuluPlus, Vudu, CinemaNow and YouTube. They also feature a Web Browser with pointer cursor for easy maneuvering, while all models in the 2013 lineup also feature external HDD Playback and personalized menu options on the Blu-ray lineup.

The Panasonic BDT330 model also offers Miracast – a new display mirroring feature which enables users to transfer and display photos, videos, movies, music, and video games from their Smartphone and Tablet devices (Android 4.2 operating system or higher) to their HDTV screen with the swipe of a finger.

All 2013 Panasonic Blu-ray Disc Players include built-in Wi-Fi (with the exception of the BD79 which is wireless-ready), enabling users to access additional content and services through the internet without the need to tether your device. Panasonic's 2013 Blu-ray Disc Players also feature high-quality network audio (DLNA compatible) as well as 192kHz/32bit Audio DAC on select 3D-capable models (BDT500) and built-in 4K up-scaling (BDT330).

Additionally the Panasonic BDT230 and BDT330, BDT500, and BBT01 models feature 2D-3D conversion for any content and the BDT330 and BDT500 models also include twin HDMI ports.

For more information on Panasonic's line of 2013 Blu-ray Disc Players, visit www.panasonic.com.

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PANASONIC ANNOUNCES PRICING & AVAILABILITY FOR ITS INAUGURAL LINE OF STREAMING MEDIA PLAYERS

Sleek and Slim Media Players Feature Built in Wi-Fi for Easy and Versatile Video Viewing

SECAUCUS, NJ (April 9, 2013) – Panasonic, an industry leader and pioneer in the development of emerging video technology, announced today pricing and availability of its first-ever line of Streaming Media Players which were unveiled last month at the 2013 International Consumer Electronics Show. The line-up features two models -- the DMP-MST60 and the DMP-MS10 featuring VIERA Connect and IP VOD respectively.

Panasonic's 3D-capable streaming media player, the MST60, features Panasonic's proprietary connected TV platform, VIERA ConnectTM, which enables1 owners of VIERA Connect-enabled Blu-ray Disc Players, Streaming Media Players and Home Theater Systems to turn any TV into a Smart TV with access to a wide range of internet-based video-on-demand content and applications covering everything from news and fitness, social networking, music and online shopping and gaming. The MST60 also includes a Web browser with cursor for easy maneuvering.

The Panasonic MS10 includes built-in Wi-Fi and contains access to IP VOD, giving users the ability to stream many of their favorite TV shows, movies and music from a variety of popular applications including Netflix, Hulu™ Plus, CinemaNow, Vudu, and YouTube™.

Both of Panasonic's streaming media players also include external HDD Playback and the MST60 also features a 2D-3D conversion function and Miracast -- a new display mirroring feature which enables users to transfer and display photos, videos, movies, music, and video games from their Smartphone and Tablet devices (Android 4.2 operating system or higher) to their HDTV screen with the swipe of a finger.

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By: Unknown On 10:49 AM

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GAME prices OUYA at £99, opens up pre-orders

American gamers already know where they'll be able to pick up an OUYA. Our friends across the Atlantic, however, only knew that they'd be able order it online direct from the company. Well, brick-and-mortar stalwart GAME appears to be in line to stock the console in the UK (or at least it thinks it is) and has opened up pre-orders for the Android-based machine. What's more, it's been slapped with a £99 price tag -- a predictable, but unfortunately higher price than Americans will be paying. The release date is still listed as TBD, though retail availability is scheduled for sometime in June. If you'd like to help keep GAME afloat you can reserve your OUYA at the source.

Via: The Next Web

Source: GAME

Tags: game, ouya, pre-order, uk

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By: Unknown On 8:37 PM

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Apple, Microsoft and Adobe give reasons for higher prices in Australia, can't guarantee you'll like them

Talk about ants in their pants. After giving regulators the runaround and repeatedly dodging the question of why they charge Australians so much more than Americans for the same products, senior executives from Apple, Microsoft and Adobe have finally been forced to sit down in front from a parliamentary committee. They weren't always especially helpful, mind you, but they did at least offer some justification as to why, on average, their products cost 50 percent more in that country. Read on for a quick rundown of who said what.

[Image credit: Delimiter]

Microsoft's Pip Marlow:

Refused to comment on a particular instance of Australians being charged $4136 for a software package in Australia but only $2324 in the US Implied, according to The Australian, that prices are set according to local competition. Said, "Our customers will vote with their wallets"

Adobe's Paul Robson:

Explained that Australians were forced to buy from Adobe's local website, which charges up to 167 percent more, so that they could get a "personalized" service Highlighted higher running costs, salaries and the need for investment in Australian sales channels as some of the reasons for higher prices

Apple's Tony King:

Argued that some Apple products were similarly priced in the US and Australia Admitted that there were serious price disparities on iTunes, but blamed them on copyright holders who still operate according to "old-fashioned notions of country borders or territories or markets"

The Australian press isn't overwhelmed with any of the responses, and it's certainly true that all three corporate execs put on a steely front, offering no hope of price reductions. As we've already seen though, pressure applied in the right places can produce all sorts of sudden cracks.

Source: Reuters, Herald Sun, The Australian, ZDNet

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By: Unknown On 7:39 PM

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Astro Gaming officially unleashes A30 & A40 PC editions, drops prices to $100 & $150

ASTRO GAMING ANNOUNCES NEW AND IMPROVED

2013 PC EDITIONS OF AWARD-WINNING A30 & A40 HEADSETS

Critically Acclaimed ASTRO Gaming A30 & A40 Headsets Deliver Most Accurate Audio Ever; Feature Updated Cabling System, Re-tuned Drivers

Prices Permanently Reduced for PC Editions of ASTRO A40 Pro-Gaming Headset, Now $149.99;

ASTRO A30 Cross-Gaming Headset, Now $99.99

SAN FRANCISCO – Feb. 26, 2013 – ASTRO Gaming, a division of Skullcandy, Inc. (Nasdaq: SKUL), and creators of premium video gaming equipment for professional and hardcore gamers, today announced a major update to two more of brand's most innovative and best-selling products with the 2013 PC Editions of the ASTRO A30 Cross-Gaming Headset and the ASTRO A40 Pro-Gaming Headset. The PC Editions of the ASTRO A30 and ASTRO A40 are standalone headsets designed for use while gaming on a PC, Mac or mobile phone. ASTRO Gaming also announced significant permanent price reductions for both of the new 2013 PC Edition products: the ASTRO A30 Cross Gaming Headset will drop from $129.99 to $99.99; while the ASTRO A40 Pro-Gaming Headset will be reduced from $199.99 to $149.99.

The 2013 PC Editions of the ASTRO A30 and ASTRO A40 Headsets feature an update to the company's highly popular Quick Disconnect Cabling System as well as re-tuned drivers and enclosures that make the audiophile-grade headsets the most accurate and detailed ASTRO Gaming has ever produced, with improved low-end response and less distortion at peak volume.

2013 PC Edition ASTRO A30 and A40 Headset Features Include:

NEW FEATURES:

New Quick Disconnect Cabling System: Updated version of the ASTRO Quick Disconnect system, offering the same flexibility of using multiple cable types and lengths, but now plugging directly into the headset via a 3.5mm 4-pole jack instead of the original mid-cable release. This increases reliability and durability while also making it easier to change to preferred cable lengths and update cables as desired.

Media Controller Cable: Designed to move freely between mobile, console and PC gaming, ASTRO A30 and A40 PC Edition Headsets feature a unique Media Controller Cable providing total audio control featuring: an in-line mic; an in-line mute; a switch that toggles between in-line and boom mics; a multi-use call/pick-up/music track control button; and, a volume control wheel.

Best Sounding ASTRO Headsets Ever: The 2013 Edition ASTRO A30 and A40 have re-tuned drivers and enclosures with improved low-end response and less distortion at high volumes making them the most accurate ASTRO headsets ever

RETURNING FEATURES:

ASTRO Audio Experience - Engineered specifically for gaming, ASTRO Audio delivers audiophile-grade sound in a richly detailed positional audio experience. ASTRO A30 and A40 headsets are designed for extended game playing, movie watching and music listening sessions and feature superior fit and finish.

Removable Mic System: Both the ASTRO A30 and A40 feature a removable boom mic; the A40 mic can be removed and swapped from ear to ear while the A30 also features an in-line mic suited for conversations on the go.

Customizable Speaker Tags: ASTRO A30 and A40 headsets feature a magnetic, removable and customizable Speaker Tag system. Tags can be designed online to create a unique look for teams, clans, guilds or simply for pure personal expression.

2013 PC Editions of the ASTRO Gaming A30 and A40 Headsets are now available directly from www.astrogaming.com.

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By: Unknown On 10:36 PM

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Acer announces two H6 Series monitors for the US, prices start at $150

New Acer H6 Series Monitors; Sleek, Seamless, Smart

Editor's Summary:

'Zero frame' construction provides elegant aesthetics as well as seamless visuals when using multiple monitors simultaneously, including video walls.

Full 1080p HD resolution IPS panels provide consistent and accurate color performance from wide viewing angles up to 178 degrees.

HDMI input transfers both audio and visual via just one cable, which means less clutter.

Tilt capability from -5 to 15-degrees enables users to adjust the displays for the most comfortable fit.

Displays feature a standard three-year warranty.

SAN JOSE, Calif. Feb. 19, 2013– Acer America is now offering its H6 Series LED-backlit displays to consumers in the United States. Svelte and savvy, the new monitors feature near zero frame construction for elegant aesthetics as well as seamless visuals when using multiple monitors simultaneously, including video walls.

Acer's newest monitors are available in two sizes - 21.5-inch (H226HQL) and 23-inch (H236HL). Both models have Full 1080p HD IPS panels, which provide consistent and accurate color performance from wide viewing angles up to 178 degrees. They can also tilt from -5 to 15-degrees, so users can adjust them for the most comfortable fit.

"Our new Acer H Series displays are the ideal all-around monitors due to their flexibility, Full HD resolution and excellent viewing angles," said Chris White, senior director of product marketing for Acer America. "They offer users the ability to display content with viewing angles as wide as 178 degrees, which makes them ideal for collaborating with others. Plus, the near zero frame construction is perfect for use in multi-monitor setups and video walls."

Boundary-Free Visuals

Featuring a 'zero frame' construction, the H6 Series displays sport a very thin .08-inch frame versus the thicker ones typically seen on displays. This clever design provides seamless visuals when building video walls consisting of multiple monitors placed side-by-side and/or on top of each other. A stylish brushed hairline finish has aesthetic appeal and a magnetic surface allows users to post notes and store paper clips directly on the stand.

A crisp 100,000,000:1 contrast ratio provides a very high level of clarity and a fast 5ms response time contributes to sharp images even during game play. The Acer eColor Management tool lets users optimize image performance under different viewing scenarios. The new displays also come with built-in speakers and multiple digital connectivity options, including HDMI®, DVI and VGA.

Pricing and Availability

The new Acer H6 Series displays are now available at leading retailers in the U.S. The manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) for the 21.5-inch Acer H226HQL display is $149.99 and the MSRP for the 23-inch Acer H236HL display is $179.99. Like all Acer displays, the Acer H6 Series feature a standard three-year warranty(1) and will be available at leading retailers in the U.S.

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By: Unknown On 6:12 PM

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Nokia confirms Windows Phone 7.8 coming to the UK today, prices Lumia 620 at £149.99

Brits who ground their fingers to stumps hammering their Lumia's update button will finally be able to rest, as Nokia UK has confirmed that Windows 7.8 is rolling out today. The company has also revealed O2's pricing for the Lumia 620, the handset that'll bring Windows Phone 8 to the cash-strapped masses. It's available from today on the oxygen-themed network, setting you back £149.99 or free on contracts priced over £18.50. Normally, the interchangeable back plates would cost around £20, but O2 is offering buyers a choice of a yellow, orange, green, white or cyan model for free.

You'll also be able to pick up the quirky handset from ThreeUK and Virgin Media today, although neither has opened up about pricing just yet. Vodafone has announced that it'll launch the phone on February 6th with a choice of white or black covers, while EE has yet to commit to carrying the handset. If you saw removable covers and hoped that the 620 would benefit from the same wireless charging plates we saw in the 820, we've got some bad news -- Nokia has said it's not likely to happen.

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By: Dilusha On 5:13 PM

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RIM lowers minimum app prices on BlackBerry World

BlackBerry-toting penny-pinchers have cause to rejoice, as RIM is introducing lower price tiers in BlackBerry World, starting with the British Pound and Euro. New price tags have yet to take hold across the board, but the the UK will see their lowest level fall from £1.00 to £0.75 (around $1.20). When it comes to the Euro, prices will vary by country, and we spotted apps as low as €0.75 ($1) on Spain's version of the shop. According to RIM, the tweak takes currency exchange rates and VAT requirements into account, and is an effort to gain a competitive edge and catch the eyes of consumers. It's certainly a far cry from how things used to be.

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Via: N4BB

Source: BlackBerry Developer Blog

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By: Dilusha On 10:10 PM

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Samsung outs Garnet Red Edition Galaxy Tab 2 7.0 in the US, prices it at $220

Just as we saw with AT&T's Garnet Red Galaxy S III, Samsung has now introduced yet another device that's wrapped in a similar color scheme -- and, hey, with Valentine's Day just around the corner, what better time, right? The difference here, however, is the South Korean company's including a matching case as part of this special edition Galaxy Tab 2 7.0, with the newfangled bundle set to be available for $220 when it goes on sale this week. Additionally, Samsung's 7-inch Garnet Red Tab 2 will be shipping with Jelly Bean already onboard, while other internal specs won't be any different that the ones we became familiar with last year -- ones such as the 1,024 x 600 TFT display, 1GHz, dual-core TI OMAP CPU, 8GB of internal storage and, of course, that handy IR blaster. You'll have to snag one quick if you're interested, though, as Samsung has told us the blooming Tab 2 7.0 will -- much like other peculiar sets -- only be available for a limited time at shops like Amazon, Walmart, Office Depot, Tiger Direct, Fry's Electronics and Toys R Us.Galaxy Tab 2 7.0 Garnet Red EditionSee all photoswhen.eng("eng.galleries.init")

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Samsung Brings Color to the Tablet Space with Garnet Red Edition Galaxy Tab 2

Limited edition color offering is a blend of on-the-go portability and style – includes free matching case, runs Android Jelly Bean

RIDGEFIELD PARK, N.J., January 28, 2013 – Samsung Electronics America Inc., a market leader and award-winning innovator in consumer electronics, today announced that a new Garnet Red Edition of the powerful Galaxy Tab® 2 7.0 will be available for a limited time, beginning this week from participating retailers.

The new Galaxy Tab 2 7.0, preloaded with Android 4.1, Jelly Bean, showcases Samsung's commitment to providing users with choice, portability and entertainment. This limited edition version of the Galaxy Tab 2 7.0 is competitively priced at $219.99 and also includes a matching Garnet Red case ($50 value) at no additional cost.
A stylish choice perfect for Valentine's Day or any occasion
The Garnet Red Edition Galaxy Tab 2 was created for consumers who want to stay connected and entertained on-the-go, and are seeking a unique color offering.

"This new eye-catching version of the Galaxy Tab 2 offers endless entertainment in the palm of your hand, while the stylish Garnet Red look will set you apart from the crowd," said Michael Abary, Senior Vice President, Samsung Electronics America, Inc. "The Garnet Red version of the Galaxy® S III has been incredibly well-received, so we are happy to make the same brilliant color available for our Galaxy Tab 2 as well."
A compact 7" powerhouse that's smart and easy to use

The Galaxy Tab 2 is a powerful dual-core tablet running Android Jelly Bean, and features an easily accessible memory card slot for convenient loading of multimedia files in a range of supported file formats.
The tablet offer endless content access in a sleek design that can maximize the home entertainment experience. The Smart Remote App and built-in IR Blaster turns the Galaxy Tab 2 into a universal remote, helping users to easily find their favorite shows and change the channel directly from the tablet. Users can choose from hundreds of thousands of apps or access favorite movies and TV shows from Google Play or Media Hub.

The new Garnet Red Edition Galaxy Tab 2 will be available while supplies last, from Walmart, Amazon.com, Office Depot, Fry's, Tiger Direct, Toys"R"Us and other fine retailers.
It features a 7" TFT display and measures 0.41" x 4.8" x 7.6". Weight including battery is 0.76 lbs and it features a built-in microSD slot supports up to 32 GB of additional storage. Connectivity includes WiFi, Bluetooth 3.0, USB 2.0 host, and integrated IR for home theater control.

A choice for every consumer

In addition to this new version of the Galaxy Tab 2 7.0, Samsung continues to offer the Galaxy Tab 2 in classic black or white in both 10.1 and 7.0 sizes. As well, the award-winning Galaxy Note 10.1 with integrated S-pen is available in black or white as well.
More information can be found at www.samsung.com.

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Source: Samsung

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By: Dilusha On 9:15 PM

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Updated: Windows 8 laptops release date, specs and prices

Microsoft has fundamentally changed the way Windows works with Windows 8, ensuring it works better with touchscreens and tablets.

But what about Windows 8 laptops, Ultrabooks and convertibles? They're all here, too.

One thing Windows 8 is bringing in spades is convergence. A Windows 8 Ultrabook that has a touchscreen? Check. A laptop with a flip-around screen? Check. Tablet PCs that slide up to reveal a keyboard? Check.

It's tough differentiating these from tablets at times, but the one stipulation they have to be in this article is that they have an attached keyboard and also run x86 Intel or AMD processors. None of the machines in this article are ARM-based.

That means they don't run Windows RT, the version of Windows for ARM systems. They do, however, run either Windows 8 or Windows 8 Pro. Check out our article on the different Windows 8 versions.

So here's the list of Windows 8 laptops, notebooks, convertibles and Ultrabooks we've looked at so far - and make sure you read our Windows 8 review, too.

Acer Aspire S7 Ultrabook review

Asus TaiChi review

Asus VivoBook S200 review

Dell Inspiron 15z review

Dell XPS Duo 12 review

HP Envy X2 review

Lenovo IdeaPad Yoga 13 review

Lenovo ThinkPad Twist review

Samsung ATIV Smart PC Pro review

Sony Vaio Duo 11 review

Toshiba Satellite U920T review

Toshiba Satellite P845 review

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By: Dilusha On 9:03 AM

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Virgin Media announces London Underground Wi-Fi prices

That's how fast your bank account will empty

Virgin Media has revealed how much the London Underground Wi-Fi will set you back if you're not with Virgin, EE or Vodafone.

Prices start at £2 for one days' Wi-Fi access as you travel around London.

A weekly pass will cost £5, and a monthly pass comes in at £15.

Any O2 and 3 customers who live or work in London will smart at these prices – and that's Virgin Media's basic intention.

It's not offering underground Wi-Fi out of the goodness of its heart, after all; this is a hardcore business decision, with free access intended to sweet the company's TV, broadband and mobile deals.

Similarly, customers of EE (including Orange and T-Mobile) and Vodafone will continue to get free Wi-Fi on tube platforms when the universal free service ends in early 2013, thanks to new partnerships struck with Virgin Media and announced today.

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By: Dilusha On 5:00 PM

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90% of This Year's Black Friday Ads Have the Exact Same Items and Prices As Last Year's Black Friday Ads

This story will display in ...Nov 14, 2012 9:00 PM  

It's not always super door buster TV deals that are better and even cheaper than last year, a lot of times big box stores sell the same exact items for the same exact price. Hell, sometimes they even charge more. NerdWallet took a look at Black Friday Ads and found some interesting stuff.

NerdWallet took a look at 22 Black Friday ad scans and found that 20 of them had at least one product at the same exact price as 2011's Black Friday ads. They're not the big ticket items like TVs or laptops but you could find printers and external hard drives that have been the same two years running. Basically, you don't have to toss in items into your cart this year just because it's Black Friday—those prices will come back.

On top of the duplication of deals, NerdWallet found that the median item price at Wal-Mart, Target and Best Buy have all increased. Check out more about the analysis of 2012 Black Friday ads here. [Nerd Wallet via Consumerist]

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By: Dilusha On 9:48 PM

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