Showing posts with label launches. Show all posts
Showing posts with label launches. Show all posts

Tuesday, May 7, 2013

Sony launches a trio of VAIO Fit laptops in Japan

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Sony launches a trio of VAIO notebooks for Japan

Spring is here, which means it's high time that Sony refreshed its laptop line for the cool kids in Japan. The company is talking up a quartet of new VAIOs including the previously-reviewed Duo 11 as well as the unfamiliar trio of the VAIO Fit 15E, Fit 14 and Fit 15. Delving deep into that last model, the 22.5mm-thick unit comes with a 1,920 x 1,080 touchscreen display and runs the 64-bit version of Windows 8 on a 2GHz Intel Core i7-3537U CPU. Look deeper and you'll find 8GB RAM, Intel HD Graphics 4000, 1TB of hybrid storage as well as 802.11 b/g/n WiFi, NFC and an Exmor R webcam. The various models will filter into Japanese stores between May 18th and June 1st, with the stock Fit 15 setting you back 180,000 yen ($1,818).

when.eng("eng.perm.init")

Saturday, April 27, 2013

AT&T's Digital Life home automation system launches in 15 markets

It’s been a long time in the making but AT&T’s home security and automation system is finally launching. Customers in 15 different markets (Atlanta, Austin, Texas, Boulder, Colo., Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, Philadelphia, Riverside, Calif., San Francisco, Seattle, St. Louis and select areas of the New York and New Jersey metropolitan area) can place their orders for Digital Life starting today according to a press release on the matter.

AT&T is peddling two different packages here: Simple Security and Smart Security. The first option is essentially a basic alarm system with sensors, HSPA base station and 24-hour battery backup for $30 per month with an installation fee of $150.

For an extra $10 per month and a $250 installation fee, you can get the basic version of Smart Security which includes your choice of three additional features. Customers can choose between a motion sensor, carbon monoxide sensor, glass break sensor, smoke sensor or what’s described as a takeover kit. Additional features like a camera system, water detection package or energy management can be added for between $5 and $10 each per month plus the cost of installation.

The security aspect of Digital Life consists of 24/7 professional monitoring with the ability to alert police and fire authorities. Customers can choose which alerts they wish to receive as well as how they receive them. With remote access, customers can monitor and control a number of aspects in their home remotely from a smartphone, tablet or PC. Options here include locking or unlocking doors, checking in on the kids or pets or adjusting the thermostat.

It certainly sounds like a neat system but there are a few restrictions. AT&T can only install the system in a single-family, detached home in the markets listed above. What's more, the installation fees can quickly add up if you plan to purchase a number of services.


View the original article here

Wednesday, April 24, 2013

Panasonic launches $500 Lumix DMC-LF1 enthusiast compact with WiFi, NFC

New Sleek, Stylish Advanced Compact Digital Camera with EVF LUMIX DMC-LF1

Featuring F2.0 LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMICRON Lens with 7.1x Optical Zoom*
* 35mm camera equivalent: 28-200mm

Panasonic is proud to announce a new digital compact camera LUMIX DMC-LF1 from new LF series – a sister line of the world-renowned LX series which have been long acclaimed by the photography enthusiasts for its high picture quality and creative descriptiveness. The new DMC-LF1 incorporates F2.0 LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMICRON lens and 1/1.7-inch large High Sensitivity MOS Sensor in sleek, stylish profile with practical EVF (Electronic View Finder). The F2.0 fast LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMICRON lens boasts excellent descriptiveness produced by its outstanding quality and performance yet achieves 7.1x high optical zoom (35mm camera equivalent: 28-200mm) making this camera even more versatile. The 1/1.7-inch large High Sensitivity MOS Sensor and the high performance Venus Engine achieves clear image recording even at high sensitivity setting taking advantage of rich amount of light.

With the Wi-Fi® connectivity with NFC (Near Field Communication) technology, the DMC-LF1 features "Touch & Share" in which users can connect the camera to their smartphone/tablet anywhere at one-touch to share a image easily right on the spot. It is also possible to use a smartphone/tablet as a multi-capable remote shutter with a monitor. With the new Instant Transfer function, photos are automatically sent to the smartphone/tablet right after shooting. On the other hand, both photo and video can be archived to the registered digital equipment such as PC automatically via the wireless access point (router) at home.

For step-up users who pursue higher expressive performance, the DMC-LF1 comes equipped with a variety of manual functionalities. Newly integrated Control Ring and Composition Guide help experience advanced photography with ease. A variety of special effects that add fun to shooting experience are also integrated in DMC-LF1 – Creative Panorama, Creative Control and Creative Retouch featuring a total of max.15 attractive filter effects*.

The DMC-LF1 records 1,920 x 1,080 60i (NTSC) / 50i (PAL) full-HD video recording in AVCHD / MP4** with high quality stereo sound. The 7.1x optical zoom is also available in video recording. The POWER O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) with Active Mode powerfully suppresses blur even in video recording. In addition to the 0.2-inch 200K-dot practical EVF, the DMC-LF1 features 3-inch large 920K-dot Intelligent LCD assuring highly visibility in both shooting and image playback.

Advanced in function and more fashionable in design – the DMC-LF1 is for users who wants to get more inspired by photography in their sophisticated lifestyles.
* Some modes of Creative Control cannot be used in Creative Panorama and Creative Retouch.
** 30p (NTSC) / 25p (PAL) in MP4 recording.
- Maximum time to record motion pictures continuously with [AVCHD] is 29 minutes 59 seconds in some European / Asian areas.
- Maximum time to record motion pictures continuously with [MP4] is 29 minutes 59 seconds or up to 4 GB.
- You can check the recordable time on the screen. (For [FHD] in [MP4] format, the file size is large and so the recordable time will drop below 29 minutes 59 seconds.)

1. The F2.0 Fast LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMICRON Lens with 7.1x Optical Zoom

The DMC-LF1 is equipped with newly developed 28mm wide angle LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMICRON lens with 7.1x optical zoom (35mm camera equivalent: 28-200mm). This supreme lens features F2.0 high speed, which boasts approx. 2x higher speed of F2.8 lens, itself generally considered a fast lens. The extraordinarily rich amount of light allows not only using higher shutter speed to capture stunningly clear, sharp, blur-free images in lower lighting situation, but also giving impressive expression to the image by reproducing exquisite gradation and mellow defocus. The lens unit consists of 10 elements in 8 groups with 4 aspherical lenses with 7 aspherical surfaces including an ED (Extra-low Dispersion) lens that compensates for chromatic aberration at entire zoom range. Panasonic achieves integrating F2.0 fast lens in this middle-zoom compact camera by combining the company's unique technologies – a technology for the mass production of a slim lens with a flange of just 0.3mm and a black-box technology for assembling spherical lenses and aspherical lenses.

The super-high-quality LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMICRON lens minimizes distortion at the wide end, so users can get stunning, true-to-life images with outstanding resolution and detail. For more effective countermeasure against hand-shake which tends to occur in shooting with high zoom, POWER O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) with Active Mode is equipped with DMC-LF1 to powerfully suppress blur in both photo and video recording.

2. The 1/1.7-inch Large 12.1-megapixel High Sensitivity MOS Sensor and Venus Engine

The DMC-LF1 integrates 1/1.7-inch, 12.1-megapixel High Sensitivity MOS Sensor which is larger in size than standard digital compact cameras. Thanks to the extensive light receiving area of each cell, the performance of high sensitivity image recording in low light is obviously superior with its excellent S/N ratio and wide dynamic range. The result is a high resolution image with stunning clarity not only in high sensitivity recording but also in low ISO setting reproducing rich gradation with the exquisitely wide dynamic range even when the situation is highly contrasted.

The high performance image processor Venus Engine also boasts advanced signal processing. The Venus Engine enables deliberate noise reduction process without missing low-frequency noise by searching large detection area to realize high sensitivity image recording even at ISO12800. In addition, Edge Smoothing NR technology helps rendering smooth edges even in image recording at high ISO setting.

The high speed digital signal output technology is integrated to realize high speed consecutive shooting at 10 fps in full resolution with mechanical shutter and to record full-HD 60i (NTSC) / 50i (PAL) smooth video in AVCHD/MP4*. It also contributes to the high speed Sonic Speed AF to catch the most fleeting shooting opportunities. In addition, the high speed burst shooting at 60 fps is available to capture subject with fast motion**.
* 30p (NTSC) / 25p (PAL) in MP4 recording.
** In max. 2.5-megapixel (4:3), 3-megapixel (3:2), 3.5-megapixel (16:9) and 2-megapixel (1:1).

3. Practical EVF and Large, High Resolution LCD for Easy Viewing of Image

The DMC-LF1 is a sleek, stylish digital compact camera but it comes with 0.2-inch EVF (Electronic Viewfinder) with 200K-dot resolution, 100% field of view. It assures stable framing and high visibility of live view image even under strong sunlight.
The 3.0-inch, 920,000-dot Intelligent LCD with super high resolution and a wide viewing angle features automatic brightness adjustment in 7 steps as the surrounding brightness level changes, ensuring easy visibility at all times. The big screen with AR coating reflects fine details, making it easy to check the focus before shooting. It also serves as a small photo and video viewer, allowing the user and friends to enjoy viewing the still and motion images together.

4. Shoot, View, Share Images in More Flexible Way with Wi-Fi® Connectivity with NFC

The DMC-LF1 integrates a Wi-Fi® connectivity (IEEE 802.11 b/g/n) with NFC (Near Field Communication) technology to offer more flexible shooting experience and instant image sharing with easy operation. The NFC allows "Touch & Share" in which users can connect the camera to their smartphone/tablet anywhere at one-touch to share a image easily right on the spot by just pairing the two devices. What is new is that the setup is extremely easy and finishes within a few seconds, making it possible to pair the camera directly to the smartphone/tablet without connection procedure of information input for authorization.
With a smartphone/tablet, remote shooting of both photo and video is available by using the smartphone/tablet for a remote shutter with a monitor which displayed live at smooth 30 fps.

Not only releasing a shutter, zooming, focusing and settings of shutter speed, aperture, exposure compensation are all controllable with a smartphone/tablet.

The Instant Transfer function allows the camera to transfer the photo data to the designated electronic devices automatically whenever shutter is released. In playback mode, users can also touch the image displayed on the camera to transfer it directly to the smartphone/tablet right on the spot. In addition, it is possible to tag the location information to the image by utilizing the GPS (Global Positioning System) log of a smartphone / tablet. All these flexible shooting / browsing / sharing style are made possible with the DMC-LF1 and the Panasonic's dedicated application software "Panasonic Image App" for iOS / Android smartphones/tablets.
Archiving images becomes easy. DMC-LF1 transfer the data to PC or other compliant electronic devices automatically via the wireless access point (router) at home. Also, users can save precious record of memory to the Panasonic's exclusive cloud service "LUMIX CLUB".

The Wi-Fi Direct™ function allows direct playback of images on the DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) – compliant VIERA HDTV*.
* Using [Playback on TV] of the Wi-Fi function, you can display images on a TV that supports the Digital Media Renderer (DMR) function of the DLNA standard. Please check the following website about the compatible devices for details.
http://panasonic.jp/support/global/cs/dsc/

5. Get More Inspired with Specialty Functions

A variety of advanced functions are equipped with DMC-LF1 to spur more interest of step-up users in photography. Manual control is easy to try thanks to the Control Ring, which enables direct, intuitive control over frequently-used settings – zooming, aperture, shutter speed, ISO sensitivity and filter of Creative Control / Creative Panorama. To assist learning photography, Composition Guide is also available in DMC-LF1. It is easy to shoot a photo in good composition by just choosing most suitable pattern of composition from – Rule of Thirds Offset, Diagonal Lines, Tunnel, Radiation1, Radiation2 and S-shape – and framing the subjects along the guided lines. Well-composed image has a stunning perspective and dramatically look refined. This function can be used in shooting not only with LCD but also with EVF. Furthermore, DMC-LF1 is equipped with Level Gauge to detect the horizontal / vertical angle of view using its internal level working with the acceleration sensor. This is helpful to keep horizontal composition precisely even when shooting in high or low angle.

6. Creative Panorama & Creative Control / Creative Retouch

The DMC-LF1 is also equipped with popular Creative Control and Creative Retouch featuring a total of 15 filter effects – Retro, Expressive, High Key, Low Key, Sepia, Dynamic Monochrome, Impressive Art, High Dynamic, Toy Effect, Miniature Effect, Star Filter, Cross Process, Soft Focus, One Point Color and Old Days. The Creative Control lets users shoot with a filter effect while checking how it makes difference on the picture, which can be used for video recording, too*. The Creative Retouch enables applying a filter effect on the picture even after shooting in camera.

With the Creative Panorama function, it is possible to apply filter effect of Retro, Expressive, High Key, Low Key, Sepia, Dynamic Monochrome, Impressive Art, High Dynamic, Star Filter, Cross Process, Soft Focus, One Point Color and Old Days to the horizontal / vertical panoramic image, which can be shot by sweeping the camera in any four directions – to right, left, top or bottom.
* Soft Focus and Star Filter cannot be used in video recording.

7. Other Attractive Features for DMC-LF1

High Quality 1920 x 1080 Full-HD 60i (NTSC) / 50i (PAL) Video with Stereo Sound
The DMC-LF1 records 1920 x 1080 at 60i (NTSC) / 50i (PAL) full HD videos with full-time AF and high quality stereo sound in the AVCHD format which excels in both compression efficiency and compatibility with AV equipment for playback. With a dedicated video record button on the back, users can instantly start recording videos while shooting photos without any having to make any extra setting adjustments. Videos can also be recorded in MP4 format for playback on a PC or other portable electronic devices without having to convert the files.
* 30p (NTSC) / 25p (PAL) in MP4 recording.
- Maximum time to record motion pictures continuously with [AVCHD] is 29 minutes 59 seconds in some European / Asian areas.
- Maximum time to record motion pictures continuously with [MP4] is 29 minutes 59 seconds or up to 4 GB.
- You can check the recordable time on the screen. (For [FHD] in [MP4] format, the file size is large and so the recordable time will drop below 29 minutes 59 seconds.)
iA+ (Intelligent Auto Plus) Mode for Photo and Video
For beginners, iA (Intelligent Auto) mode supports taking beautiful pictures with a variety of shooting-assist functions including AF Tracking, Intelligent Scene Selector, Face Recognition and Intelligent ISO Control. The iA Plus mode lets users adjust defocusing area in the background, exposure compensation and white balance for more flexible control.
AC / USB Power Charging

The camera's battery can be recharged either via AC or via USB according to the users' convenience.


Source

Tuesday, April 23, 2013

Razer Comms voice chat launches in open beta with an always-on overlay (video)

Razer Comms launches in open beta with crossgame, alwayson voice chat


Dedicated gamers are very familiar with loading chat apps like Teamspeak or Ventrilo to coordinate their multiplayer sessions, but such software usually sits in the background -- it's hard to tell who's speaking without switching apps and losing focus. Razer's new Comms open beta may just give players a chance to stay in touch without those rude interruptions. The Windows app provides the obligatory home for group voice and text chat, but its real standout is an optional on-screen game overlay that will keep the conversation going, either with a full window or a minimalist ticker that shows who's speaking. Razer's war on lag persists here, as well: Comms' servers reportedly minimize delays and hiccups in the heat of battle. Not everyone will need the beta when many games already have chat baked in. Those that want a more consistent experience, however, can give Comms a spin today.


Source: Razer

Sunday, April 21, 2013

Cox TV Connect for Android launches, brings live TV streaming to 'select' tablets

Cox TV Connect for Android launches, brings live TV streaming to 'select' tablets


We're still waiting to see Cox's next generation cable TV-to-mobile streaming app, but right now it's released a version of its existing Cox TV Connect app for Android. Available on iPads since the end of 2011 and on iPhone / iPod touch since the end of last year, it's finally made the trek to a "select" group of Android tablets, consisting of the Nexus 7 and Samsung Galaxy 2 / Galaxy Note slates. A support document also mentions Amazon's Kindle Fire family, however the app isn't in its store as of this posting. For those not familiar, it's a free app for subscribers that lets them watch a selection of live TV channels while connected to their home wireless network, and view listings anywhere. We'll be interested to see if the list of compatible (Android 4.0+) hardware grows quickly, or if users will need to wait for a port of the new app which adds personalization features tied into Cox's Trio DVR platform.


Source: Google Play, Cox TV Communications (Twitter)


More Coverage: Cox Support

Friday, April 19, 2013

Just.me launches on iOS, aims to become your favorite messaging app

Justme launches on iOS, aims to become your favorite messaging app


Apple's App Store certainly doesn't suffer from any shortages in the social apps department, but that's not stopping the newly launched Just.me from attempting to work itself into the daily lives of iOS users. After about two years of being in the development stage, Just.me has finally matured and is now readily available on Cupertino's platform, giving the iDevice crowd a messaging service that's reminiscent of Facebook's own chatty offering.


What makes Just.me slightly different, however, are many of the other built-in tidbits, such as a cloud storage feature that lets folks save conversations they'd rather keep private, as well as the ability to message just about anyone in your contacts list from within the application -- even if they aren't account holders. So, if you think you have the time to keep track of one more thing, Just.me is just a free download away.


Via: Reuters


Source: App Store

Thursday, April 18, 2013

LinkedIn launches redesigned iOS, Android apps with a focus on the news stream

LinkedIn launches redesigned iOS, Android apps with a focus on the news stream


Recent moves by LinkedIn -- including its acquisition of Pulse -- suggested its eye was towards becoming a center of its users universe for much more than simple networking or job hunting, and its latest mobile updates continue on that path. Updates arriving today on the iOS and Android platforms are redesigned for more "delightful interactions" throughout the app. That means a shift of focus to the news stream, including conversations, updates from your network and of course, advertisements. Check after the break for a quick video demo of the new features or hit the blog for a description -- whether it's enough to overtake Twitter, Facebook or something else for your social dashboard remains to be decided.


Source: LinkedIn, iTunes, Google Play

Tuesday, April 16, 2013

BitTorrent Surf plugin launches in beta on both Chrome and Firefox

BitTorrent Surf plugin launches in beta, available for both Chrome and Firefox


After four months in the alpha incubator, BitTorrent has released its Surf file-sharing plugin in beta not just for Chrome, its initial browser, but for Firefox as well. In an effort to make downloading and discovery easier, the new plugin has a status window for monitoring file progress plus a recommendation engine that'll offer suggestions based on search terms. BitTorrent claims the results "prioritize legitimate content" and will "help creators and fans connect." With ventures like SoShare, Sync and live-streaming in the works, this is yet another sign that a brand (arguably) once synonymous with illicit activities is at least trying to go legit.


Source: BitTorrent (1), (2)

Monday, April 1, 2013

Cowon D20 launches in Japan, keeps MP3 players alive 90 hours at a time

Cowon D20 launches in Japan, keeps MP3 players alive 90 hours at a time


There's no denying it: the MP3 player market is in free fall, and competitors often have to either go big or go home if they want to justify their work over the many smartphone alternatives. Cowon is still kicking, and the extreme battery life of its new D20 player may be a good explanation as to why. Along with 13 hours of video, it can play 90 hours of music on a charge -- enough that the tunes could blast non-stop through a long weekend. Not that the player will otherwise rock the boat, as it's still carrying a 2.5-inch, 320 x 240 resistive touchscreen, 8GB to 32GB of built-in storage, an SD card slot and Cowon's familiar (if hyper-stylized) interface. The company is partly counting on a low cost to get its foot in the door. Following a tease earlier this month in Russia, the D20 is launching in Japan at prices between ¥11,800 ($125) and ¥16,800 ($178) -- not a bad deal, so long as endurance rules your world.


Via: Akihabara News


Source: Cowon


More Coverage: Anything But iPod

Tuesday, March 26, 2013

Logitech launches keyboard folios for iPad, iPad Mini (video)

Logitech Keyboard Folio for iPad and iPad mini Combines Comfortable Typing with 360-Degree Protection

Sleek Profiles and Refined Fabrics Upgrade Traditional iPad Keyboard Folios

NEWARK, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Today Logitech (SIX: LOGN) (NASDAQ: LOGI) announced the expansion of its tablet accessories lineup with the introduction of its Logitech® Keyboard Folio and Logitech® Keyboard Folio mini, designed to both safeguard your tablet and touch-screen while complementing it with refined fabrics and new colors to match your personal style.

"Our goal with the new Logitech Keyboard Folio was to take the award-winning typing experience from the Logitech Ultrathin Keyboard Cover and add an extra layer of protection"

"Our goal with the new Logitech Keyboard Folio was to take the award-winning typing experience from the Logitech Ultrathin Keyboard Cover and add an extra layer of protection," said Mike Culver, vice president of brand development for tablet accessories at Logitech. "To take the design a step farther, we combined Logitech's expertise and experience in keyboards with high-quality materials to bring a sense of sophistication to the functional protection people want and need for their tablets."

The Logitech Keyboard Folio connects to your iPad through Bluetooth® and delivers the feel of familiar, traditional full-size keys with function shortcuts for the iPad, helping you overcome the limitations of typing with an on-screen keyboard.

Marrying aesthetics and practicality, Logitech combined sophisticated materials with a clean industrial design, to evoke personal style while helping to minimize the risk of damage to your tablet. Taking protection and convenience to the next level, Logitech has included magnetic closures to further help minimize the risk of damage to your tablet while in transit, and a hands-free flip stand offers two comfortable viewing angles so you can enjoy your iPad or iPad mini in the perfect position. The Logitech Keyboard Folio also features instant On/Off functionality that wakes your tablet when you open the cover and puts it to sleep when you close it, helping to preserve your tablet's battery life.

Pricing and Availability

The Logitech Keyboard Folio is expected to be available in the U.S. and Europe in April 2013, for a suggested retail price of $99.99. The Logitech Keyboard Folio mini is expected to be available in the U.S. and Europe in May 2013, for a suggested retail price of $89.99. Both products feature a variety of colors, with availability differing by country. For more information, please visit www.logitech.com or our blog.


Source

Friday, February 15, 2013

Haze for iOS launches, clears the visual clutter of weather apps (hands-on)

Haze for iPhone clears the visual clutter for weather apps handson


RoboCat and Taptanium aren't fans of the typical weather app, which tends to bombard the user with numbers when they just need a heads-up as to whether it's warm or likely to rain. Its newly launched Haze, then, is the potential antidote. The iOS app initially shows just the core temperature, humidity and hours of sunlight in different sections, with its namesake haze effect giving a clue as to whether conditions are trending up or down. If you need to know more, a tap expands the details, and a swipe down shows a 5-day forecast. There's also a handful of elements that we seldom see in these apps, such as a direction-relative wind indicator, optional motion-driven navigation and visual themes. RoboCat hints to us that an iPad version might be on the way, although ports to Android and other platforms are more likely to depend on the early response.


We had the chance to give Haze a spin ahead of launch. It's at least a refreshing take: there's an appeal to exposing only the weather we want to see, and in a colorful way that never needs more than one hand to navigate. Compared to Apple's default app, though, it's at once providing more information and less. Haze is much better at supplying the current day's conditions, but its forecasts don't always reveal what's happening -- you'll know the humidity is shifting on Tuesday, but not the likelihood of snow. Consider the app more of a single-day weather specialist in its current form and the 99-cent price ($3 after a promo period ends) is easy to justify. Haze for iOSSee all photoswhen.eng("eng.galleries.init")



Source: Haze, iTunes

Wednesday, February 13, 2013

Under Armour launches Armour39 performance tracking system, we go hands-on

Armour39 hands-on


Under Armour has always touted the scientific underpinnings of its sports apparel. From moisture wicking to heat trapping and everything in between, the company is quick to assert that it isn't just another athletic clothing company. But, performance enhancing shirts and pants have their limitations and, arguably, performance monitoring is a far more interesting and burgeoning field. In 2011 it dabbled with E39, a compression shirt with a space to insert a "bug" that included and accelerometer and heart rate monitor. Today, at an event in beautiful, chilly New York City, it officially unveiled the next evolution of that toe-dipping, Armour39. While there may be a shirt in the future, for now the system consists of a traditional chest strap, an iPhone app and an optional watch for those that don't like to carry their expensive smartphone with them on runs.


Armour39 hands-onSee all photoswhen.eng("eng.galleries.init")



The only essential piece of equipment is the module itself and the strap. The new bug is quite a bit smaller than the original, which means you won't be able to pop it into an E39 shirt if you happen to have one. Inside the tiny, light monitor is a dedicated CPU, an accelerometer, storage and a Bluetooth 4.0 radio. Along one edge are a pair of metal probes that connect to receptacles in the strap that feed it data from the heart rate sensors. It clips in with a satisfying click and requires a decent amount of force to remove. Not so much that it's annoying, but enough that you feel confident it won't fall out while you're sprinting around the track. The strap itself feels stunningly soft and comfortable. Having worn a few different fitness monitoring solutions in my day, this seemingly small detail lent the whole package a seriously premium feel. Plus, who wants to deal with chaffing or lost chest hair while trying work their guns? The bug operates on a standard watch-style battery, which the company claims should last for up to a year.


The Armour39 app, which is iOS only for the moment, gives you a quick way to monitor information like heart rate, calories burned and intensity. The latter, which sounds pretty abstract, is determined by things like your maximum heart rate and other metrics that you can enter into the app, making it a performance measurement specific to you. Lastly, there's WILLpower, an holistic score of how hard you're pushing yourself on a scale of 1-10. The app uses a proprietary algorithm that takes into account not only your heart rate and position, but also past performances to determine your level of effort.


The last piece of the puzzle is the watch, which we were a little disappointed to find out didn't include GPS for proper run tracking. Instead it just gives athletes a way to keep tabs on all the data generated by the bug without having to take their delicate iPhone with them to the gym. While runners would probably enjoy the addition of location monitoring, its absence does mean you can expect up to a year of use on a standard watch battery. The Armour39 system will hit shelves on March 20th, with the module and strap bundle costing $150 and the watch $199.


Edgar Alvarez contributed to this report.


Source

Friday, February 1, 2013

NASA launches TDRS-K satellite to 'replenish aging space network'

NASA launches TDRSK satellite to 'replenish aging space network'


There's nothing worse than an old space network, but thankfully NASA's working on getting some new technology into orbit. The organization just launched the first of three new satellites on the back of a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket, the first step in the "replenishment of our aging space network," according to project manager Jeffrey Gramling. The TDRS-K offers up tracking, telemetry and more, in order to improve communications for space exploration. The satellite is entering a three-month test period, before NASA actually puts it into action. Next year, it will be joined by the TDRS-L, followed by the TDRS-M, which is set to be fully built by 2015.

when.eng("eng.perm.init")

Thursday, January 31, 2013

South Korea successfully launches native rocket and satellite into space

\South Korea launches first native rocket and satellite into space


The spacefaring club has been a small one: to date, just 10 countries have managed to build their own rocket and successfully deploy at least a satellite. Make that 11. South Korea has entered the fold by successfully launching its mostly self-developed, two-stage Naro rocket and putting the vehicle's Science and Technology Satellite-2C payload into orbit. The achievement comes after two prominent failures in 2009 and 2010, and is partly symbolic when there's no plans for a short-term follow-up. However, the success gets the ball rolling for the long run -- the Korea Aerospace Research Institute is working with contractors to build completely in-house rocket stages by 2016, and reach 300 tons of thrust as soon as 2018.

when.eng("eng.perm.init")

Wednesday, January 30, 2013

Fujifilm launches alphabet soup of point-and-shoot, compact and bridge cameras

Fujifilm launches alphabet soup of pointandshoot, compact and bridge cameras


Where to start? Fujifilm has announced 9 new FinePix camera models by our counting, including six bridge models (the S6800 and S4800 series), the JX680 point-and-shoot, the F900EXR compact with WiFi and .05-second autofocus, and more basic F850EXR compact. The S6800, S6700 and S6600 are 16-megapixel bridge shooters with 30x, 28x and 26x zooms respectively, boasting OIS sensor stabilization, 12,800 max ISO, 1.0 second startup, 0.3 second autofocus, 10fps high-speed shooting at full resolution (max 10 frames) and 1080i 60fps HD video, with prices topping out at $250. The 16-megapixel FinePix S4800, S4700 and S4600 have the same 30x, 28x and 26x zoom levels and sensor shift image stabilisation along with auto scene recognition, a 1.3 second startup time, 0.3 second autofocus, 720P, 30 fps video with mini-HDMI output and a max price of $230.


For lovers of smaller form factors, the $100 JX680 point-and-shoot has a 16-megapixel CMOS, 5x Fujinon optical zoom, "creative" filters like soft focus, a 3.0-inch, 230k-dot LCD screen, max 3200 ISO and 720P video with editing. In compact land, the $300 FinePix F850EXR sports a 20x optical zoom, CMOS-shift image stabilisation, a 16-megapixel EXR-CMOS sensor, 3.0-inch 920k-dot LCD, 9 fps continuous shooting (max 5 frames), 1.1 second startup time, Eye-Fi card compatibility and 1080P 60fps video. Finally, the $400 FinePix F900EXR matches all those specs while adding WiFi image transfer capabilitiy, faster 11 fps continuous shooting (5 frames max) and claimed "world's fastest" 0.05 second autofocus speed. Got all that? All the new models will arrive in March 2013, so feel free to check the PR and video after the break if you want more. We're going to take a nap. Fujifilm Finepix S6800 Press GallerySee all photoswhen.eng("eng.galleries.init") Fujifilm Finepix S4800 press gallerySee all photoswhen.eng("eng.galleries.init") Fujifilm Finepix EXR900 Press GallerySee all photoswhen.eng("eng.galleries.init") Fujifilm Finepix EXR850 PR GallerySee all photoswhen.eng("eng.galleries.init")


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FUJIFILM ANNOUNCES TWO NEW LONG ZOOM S-SERIES ALL-IN-ONE BRIDGE CAMERAS THAT GIVE CONSUMERS GREAT IMAGES AND PERFORMANCE


New S-Series cameras feature long zoom, fast autofocus speeds and high resolution imaging for advancing photography consumers


Valhalla, N.Y., January 30, 2013 – FUJIFILM North America Corporation announces its newest S-Series all-in-one bridge cameras, well-known for their precision FUJINON lenses and simple, compact designs. The new cameras feature improved sensors, advanced processing power and amazing lenses to give consumers a great choice of long zoom, yet easy to use digital cameras.


The two new S-Series models – the S6800 and S4800 each boast a powerful Optical Image Stabilization system for excellent blur reduction, and genuine FUJINON long zoom lenses with 30x optical zoom.

Powerful Optical Zoom and Optical Image Stabilization
The FinePix S-Series cameras both offer 30x zoom (24-720mm) with a wide range of focal lengths for maximum versatility. They also each use a superb FUJINON lens that consists of 17 elements in 12 groups, and combines aspherical and ED elements that help to reduce aberrations and promote a superior level of image quality. Each of the new bridge cameras are also capable of a Super Macro mode for users to get as close as 0.78" from a subject for great close-up shots.


"The new FinePix S-Series long zoom bridge cameras give consumers a powerful all-in-one compact design camera that is easy to use and delivers high resolution image quality that photography enthusiasts will enjoy" said David Troy, director of marketing, Digital Cameras, Electronic Imaging Division, FUJIFILM North America Corporation. "These full-featured cameras give users speedy performance, ease of use and the ability to capture beautiful images at amazing distances – perfect for capturing those exciting family images."


Fast Autofocus and Quick Response Times
The S6800 has an impressive 16MP 1/2.3-inch BSI-CMOS sensor that captures excellent quality, low noise shots at sensitivities as high as ISO 12800. With autofocus speeds of 0.3 seconds*1, start-up times of 1.0 seconds*1, a 0.5 seconds*1 interval between shots and a continuous shooting speed of 8fps (max 10 frames at full resolution)*1, users can feel confident about capturing fast-action shots. And with its ultra-high-speed shooting of up to 60fps (max 60 frames, image size 1280 × 960) *1 and up to 120fps (max 60 frames, image size 640 × 480)*1, the S6800 lets users capture the action in slow-motion for advanced photography.


The S4800 uses a 16MP 1/2.3-inch CCD sensor that captures sharp quality, low noise shots and has autofocus speeds of 0.3 seconds*3 and a start-up time of 1.3 seconds*3 for quick action shooting at a great value.


Easy to Use
Both S-Series cameras have an easy to use Mode Dial for shooting selection, a bright 3.0" LCD screen (460k-dot S6800 and 230K-dot S4800) for easy viewing and image framing and the S6800 adds a dual zoom control for speed and precision zooming..


Full HD movie 1080i/60fps with Stereo Sound
The FinePix S6800 makes movie recording as easy as taking pictures using the dedicated movie button to start recording instantly. The high resolution, 1080i movie capture at 60fps with stereo sound and slow-motion capture at 480fps*2 is superb when played back on HDTV screens, and users can even take still photos during video recording. The S6800 also adds a number of in-camera movie editing features including "movie trimming" and "movie join."


The FinePix S4800 also shoots in 720p at 30fps in 16:9 format to let users share memories with friends and family on the big screen using the mini HDMI connector*4. What's more, with the clever Video Scene Recognition feature and a dedicated Video Recording button, you can leave the camcorder at home, and capture some great spur-of-the-moment footage!


FinePix S6800 key features:
• FUJINON Super zoom Lens (24mm wide-angle to 720mm telephoto lens, f/3.1 to 5.9)
• 16MP 1/2.3" BSI-CMOS sensor
o Autofocus speed of up to 0.3 seconds
o Continuous shooting; 8fps (10frames, full resolution), 60fps 60 frames, image size 1280×960) ,120 fps (60 frames, image size 640×480)
o Start-up time of 1.0 second
o Shooting interval time of 0.5 seconds
• Optical Image Stabilization (Sensor Shift)
• Full HD movie 1080i/60 fps with stereo sound and slow-motion capture at 480fps
• Bright 3.0-inch LCD screen ( 460K-dot)
• Manual exposure control(P/S/A/M modes)
• Super Macro to 0.78"
• Dual zoom control
• Instant zoom and Zoom Bracketing
• 4×AA alkaline batteries with an approximately 320 shot battery life
• Available in black, white, and red


FinePix S4800 key features:
• FUJINON Super zoom lens (24mm wide-angle to 720mm telephoto lens, f/3.1 to 5.9)
• 16MP 1/2.3" CCD sensor
• Optical Image Stabilization (Sensor Shift)
• Scene Recognition Auto with 6 pre-set scenes
• Autofocus in 0.3 seconds*1
• HD Movie 720P/30fps with Video Scene Recognition
• 3" LCD monitor (230k dots)
• Manual exposure control (P/S/A/M modes)
• Instant Zoom
• Mini HDMI output
• 4×AA alkaline batteries with an approx. 320 shot battery life
• Available in Black


*1 FUJIFILM research based on CIPA guidelines and conducted in "High Performance" mode
*2 High Speed Movie can be recorded at the following speeds and sizes:
480fps (320 x 120 pixels), 240fps (320 x 240 pixels), 120fps (640 x 480 pixels)
*3 FUJIFILM research based on CIPA standards
*4 HDMI cable not included


Pricing and Availability
The FinePix S-Series will be available March 2013 at the price of $249.95 (S6800) and $229.95 (S4800). Both models will be available in black, and the S6800 will also be available in White and Red.


For complete specs, please go to: https://www.fujifilmusa.com/products/digital_cameras/showcase/index.html


About Fujifilm
FUJIFILM North America Corporation, a marketing subsidiary of FUJIFILM Holdings America Corporation consists of five operating divisions and one subsidiary company. The Imaging Division sells consumer and commercial photographic products and services including film, one-time-use cameras, online photo services and fulfillment, digital printing equipment and service. The Electronic Imaging Division markets consumer digital cameras. The Motion Picture Division provides motion picture archival film, and the Graphic Systems Division supplies products and services to the printing industry. The Optical Devices Division provides binoculars, and optical lenses for closed circuit television, videography, cinematography, broadcast and industrial markets. FUJIFILM Canada Inc. markets a range of Fujifilm products and services. For more information, please visit www.fujifilmusa.com/northamerica, or go to www.twitter.com/fujifilmus to follow Fujifilm on Twitter. To receive news and information direct from Fujifilm via RSS, subscribe at www.fujifilmusa.com/rss.

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FUJIFILM DEBUTS NEW SLIM AND FEATURE-PACKED FINEPIX JX680 DIGITAL CAMERA


Valhalla, N.Y., January 30, 2013 – FUJIFILM North America Corporation today announced the introduction of the FinePix JX680, a slim digital camera with a FUJINON 5x optical zoom lens (26-130mm*1) that is thin enough to fit in your jeans or purse to take wherever you go. It has the perfect combination of advanced features and ease of use, offering Digital Image Stabilization to help eliminate blurry images, and an Advanced Filter function for added creative expression. Additionally, its 16MP CCD sensor ensures that the highest image quality is captured every time and can be easily viewed on its bright 3.0" LCD screen.


"The FinePix JX680 offers consumers a stylish combination of powerful features and creative options all in a slim and affordable compact digital camera that fits in your pocket," said David Troy, director of marketing, Digital Cameras, FUJIFILM North America Corporation, Electronic Imaging Division. "Everyday photographers will enjoy this easy-to-use camera with its exciting feature set that includes Digital Image Stabilization, HD movie capture, and large 3.0" LCD screen."


Slim Camera with 5x FUJINON Lens and Digital Image Stabilization
Despite being ultra-compact (20mm*2), the FinePix JX680 camera offers a wide subject coverage with its 5x FUJINON optical zoom lens, from 26mm*1 (wide) to 130mm*1 (telephoto), resulting in an expanded range of shooting situations. To help with eliminating blurry images – especially at maximum zoom lengths – the JX680 camera employs Digital Image Stabilization to capture as crisp a photo as possible.


HD Capture with Fast Start Up
With a 16MP CCD sensor, the FinePix JX680 camera can produce high-quality, low-noise images, even at sensitivities of up to ISO 3200*3. Stunning movies can be recorded at 720p, and still images with aspect ratios of 16:9 can also be achieved simultaneously. Movie recording can be started in an instant, thanks to the dedicated "Movie Recording Button," and for the creative type of user, the camera also includes a number of advanced movie-editing features.


Easy on the Eyes
Viewing images on the FinePix JX680 is a pleasure with the smooth, easy-to-read vector fonts and the new high-resolution 3.0"/230K-dot LCD screen. Additionally, an Instant Zoom feature, which shows your composition area as well as the area outside your frame, and large buttons in a simple layout, help users concentrate on composing, without ever losing sight of the big picture. Another exciting change in this year's FinePix JX680 is that the battery now does not have to be removed for charging, as it can be connected via a USB cable to the power source.


Advanced Filters
The FinePix JX680 also features new Advanced Filter options that let users enjoy a variety of photographic expressions. Choose from 6 creative patterns, including:
• Pop Color – great for boosting contrast and saturation
• Toy Camera – adds vignetting for a 70's retro look
• Miniature – blurred top and bottom sections for a tilt-and-shift effect
• Partial Color – selects one color and takes the rest of the shot in black and white. (choose from red, purple, yellow, green, blue and orange)
• Soft Focus – create a soft focus effect
• Cross Screen – adds starbursts around bright objects


FinePix JX680 key features:
• 5x FUJINON optical zoom (26-130mm*) with Digital Image Stabilization
• 16MP CCD sensor
• 26mm* wide-angle
• 3.0" LCD screen
• Creative Advanced Filters
• Individual shutter 3D
• Motion Panorama
• Easy to use GUI with large buttons
• 720p HD movie recording with dedicated "Movie Recording Button"
• Advanced video editing features
• Super slim and pocket-friendly (just 20mm*2)
• Battery charging via USB cable


*1 35mm format equivalent
*2 At its thinnest point
*3 ISO 3200 is effective in S mode


The FinePix JX680 will be available March 2013 at the price of $99.95 and will be available in black, and red.


For complete specs, please go to: https://www.fujifilmusa.com/products/digital_cameras/showcase/index.html



About Fujifilm
FUJIFILM North America Corporation, a marketing subsidiary of FUJIFILM Holdings America Corporation consists of five operating divisions and one subsidiary company. The Imaging Division sells consumer and commercial photographic products and services including film, one-time-use cameras, online photo services and fulfillment, digital printing equipment and service. The Electronic Imaging Division markets consumer digital cameras. The Motion Picture Division provides motion picture archival film, and the Graphic Systems Division supplies products and services to the printing industry. The Optical Devices Division provides binoculars, and optical lenses for closed circuit television, videography, cinematography, broadcast and industrial markets. FUJIFILM Canada Inc. markets a range of Fujifilm products and services. For more information, please visit www.fujifilmusa.com/northamerica, or go to www.twitter.com/fujifilmus to follow Fujifilm on Twitter. To receive news and information direct from Fujifilm via RSS, subscribe at www.fujifilmusa.com/rss.

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FUJIFILM LAUNCHES PREMIUM COMPACT ULTRA ZOOM WITH WORLD'S FASTEST AUTOFOCUS SPEED AND WI-FI®


Blazing fast F900EXR has AF of 0.05 seconds and allows users to wirelessly transfer beautiful, sharp pictures and movies to their smartphone or tablet for easy online uploading


Valhalla, N.Y., January 30, 2013 – FUJIFILM North America Corporation today announced the premium, compact long-zoom FinePix F900EXR digital camera that features a new Intelligent Hybrid AF system that focuses as fast as 0.05 seconds*1 by using a new Phase Detection AF system in its advanced EXR-CMOS II sensor. The F900EXR automatically switches between Phase Detection AF and Contrast Detection AF depending on the subject and scene, guaranteeing superb ease-of-use and fast, accurate autofocus no matter what the setting or shooting conditions.


The FinePix F900EXR also has an improved Wireless Image Transfer function that allows users to quickly and easily upload high resolution images and movies to their Apple or Android smartphone or tablet. The F900EXR continues the tradition of superior image quality that the F-Series is known for with its speed, bright lens, intuitive use and advanced features.


"The F900EXR delivers the impressive AF speed that consumers have been demanding, and with speeds as fast as 0.05 seconds, photography enthusiasts won't be disappointed," said David Troy, director of marketing, Digital Cameras, Electronic Imaging Division, FUJIFILM North America Corporation. "And after you've captured those amazing images, the F900EXR now allows you to share the images quickly and easily with its new Wi-Fi®-certified Wireless Image Transfer function."


The FinePix F900EXR features a 1/2" 16MP EXR-CMOS II sensor that delivers superior image quality and performance - especially in low light situations. The F900EXR also uses the bright and fast FUJINON 20x wide-angle long-zoom lens (25-500mm) that produces exceptional images, along with an Intelligent Digital Zoom feature that effectively doubles zoom capability and an ultra-clear 3.0" high contrast 920K-dot resolution LCD.


The FinePix F900EXR includes a new EXR Processor II that more than doubles the performance of the first-generation EXR Processor. With a super-fast startup time of 1.1seconds*2, an interval between shots of 0.5 seconds *2, and burst-mode rates of 11 frames/second *2 (max. 5 frames), the F950EXR offers fantastic response times that make it a joy to use and ensure you should never have to worry about missing that special shot again.


Improved Wireless Image Transfer Function
The F900EXR's new wireless feature lets you transfer photos and movies*3 from the camera to smartphones, tablets and computers and then upload high-quality images to social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter in seconds.


To connect the F900EXR to a smartphone or tablet, users can download the free dedicated "FUJIFILM Camera Application" to their iPhone™ / iPad™ or Android™ smartphone or tablet device to transfer up to 30 pictures at a time from the F900EXR. The app also lets you download movies*3, expanding the range of options available for enjoying pictures taken with the camera.


With its Wi-Fi capability, the F900EXR allows users to back up photos on their home computer. Users simply install the free "FUJIFILM PC AutoSave" software onto their computer and select which folder they want the photos to back up to, and then by linking a Wi-Fi Router and the F900EXR, the camera will backup photos to the home computer.


Pictures stored on the F900EXR can be viewed and selected for download on large smartphone or tablet screens for a smooth viewing experience. No wireless LAN access point or complicated ID or password entry is required, and once pictures have been downloaded to the smartphone, it is simple to upload them to social networking sites.


Sharp, Clear 20x Lens
The FinePix F900EXR camera uses the FUJINON 20x Super wide-angle optical zoom lens to produces crisp high resolution results throughout the focal range, from 25mm wide-angle to 500mm telephoto, along with a Macro Mode that allow sharp focusing down to 1.9" delivering the most brilliant detail possible.


Clear, Beautiful Display and Easy Controls for Enhanced Shooting Control
The FinePix F900EXR has a bright, premium 3.0", 920K-dot LCD monitor with a Monitor Sunlight mode for enhanced viewing in bright sunlight and at wider viewing angels. The F900EXR also lets users assign frequently-used options to the new "E-fn" or extended function button for enhanced ease of use.


Full HD Video with Impressive Speed
The F900EXR uses its EXR-CMOS II sensor to shoot video full HD at a smooth 60 frames per second with improved Phase Detection AF with superior color reproduction. Movie recording can be started with a single press of the dedicated "Movie Recording Button" and records high-quality sound using the built-in stereo microphone.


The Intelligent Hybrid AF system is active during movie recording for fast, precise focus. The camera also offers a Scene Recognition for movie recording feature that automatically adjusts camera settings for landscapes, close-ups, night landscapes, portraits, backlit portraits, and night portraits for high-quality, hassle-free results with a variety of subjects.


Fantastic Built-in Photographic Filters
With its built-in photographic filters, users can now get even more creative with their photography. The F900EXR Advanced Filters include:


• Pop Color – emphasizes contrast and color saturation
• Toy Camera – create shaded borders as if you were taking a photo on a toy camera
• Miniature – adds top and bottom blur for a diorama or miniature effect
• Dynamic Tone – create a fantasy effect by dynamically-modulated tonal reproduction
• Partial Color – retain one selected original color and change the rest of the photo to black and white
• High Key – enhance brightness and reduce contrast to lighten tonal reproduction
• Low Key – create uniformly dark tones with few areas of emphasized highlights
• Soft Focus – blur the focus of the image edges to create a softer effect


Within the FinePix F-Series, Fujifilm is also introducing the new FinePix F850EXR. The F850EXR features a 16MP ½-inch EXR CMOS Sensor and 20X manual zoom to offer tremendous versatility at a great value.


FinePix F900EXR key features list:
• 16MP ½-inch EXR-CMOS II sensor with Phase Detection and EXR Processor II
• 20x optical zoom (25-500mm*4) with CMOS-shift Image stabilization
• 3.0" LCD screen with wide viewing angle
• EXR-Auto (with auto optimization for 108 different scene permutations)
• Full manual controls
• Intelligent Hybrid AF (World's Fastest AF of 0.05 seconds*1)
• Start-up time of 1.1 seconds*2
• Interval between shots of 0.5 seconds*2
• RAW shooting (RAW, JPEG, RAW+JPEG image capture modes)
• Wireless Image Transfer to PC, tablets and smartphones
• 11 frames/second*2 (max 5 frames) continuous shooting (at full resolution)
• Advanced Filters
• Motion Panorama 360
• Full HD 1080p Video (60fps)
• Available in black, and indigo blue
• 260 shots*4 per battery charge


FinePix F850EXR key features list:
• 16MP ½-inch EXR-CMOS sensor with EXR Processor II
• 20x optical zoom (25-500mm*4) with CMOS-shift Image stabilization
• 3" LCD screen
• EXR-Auto mode (with auto optimisation for 108 different scene permutations)
• Full manual controls
• Fast AF of up to 0.21 seconds*2
• Start-up time of 1.1 seconds*2
• Interval between shots of 0.5 seconds*2
• 9.0 frames/second*2 (max 5 frames) continuous shooting (at full resolution)
• Advanced Filters
• Motion Panorama 360
• Full HD 1080p Video (60fps)
• Eye-Fi Card Compatibility
• Available in black
• 250 shots*2 per battery charge


The FinePix F900EXR and F850EXR will be available in March 2013 for $399.95 and $299.95 respectively.
For complete camera specifications, please go to: http://www.fujifilm.com/products/digital_cameras/.


*1 FUJIFILM research as of November 2012. Compared with other digital cameras, based on CIPA standards, and conducted in High Performance mode at the maximum wide-angle position with AF-area mode set to center position
*2 FUJIFILM research based on CIPA standards
*3 FUJIFILM Camera Application for iOS can save movie files up to 1280 x 720
*4 35mm format equivalent
*5 Wi-Fi CERTIFIED logo is a certification mark of the Wi-Fi Alliance


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Saturday, January 26, 2013

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

HTC's au Infobar A02


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.


HTC-made au Infobar A02 launches in Japan, wraps 4.7-inch screen and quad-core chip in funky colorsSee all photoswhen.eng("eng.galleries.init")



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