In This Issue... - Hulu Plus app announced for Android, expected to arrive in the "coming months"
- Rumor: iPad 2G cases hint at iPad camera
- Star Wars has gone Blu-ray, now available for pre-order
- CES 2011: iPad joysticks from Ten One Design and ThinkGeek
- Slacker Premium Radio, the on-demand service, tipped as coming "very very soon"
- CES 2011: Interactive Toy Concepts' Medal of Honor remote controlled battlebots
- CES 2011: Samsung claims title of biggest LED 3DTV
- CES 2011: Slacker Radio show off iPad app
- CES 2011: Hands-on (or off?) the Beamz laser-based music controller
- CES 2011: Karotz, the successor to Nabaztag
- CES 2011: Snakebyte unveils its PS3 Bluetooth remote
- CES 2011 Review: Reese's minis
- CES 2011: Microsoft Surface 2.0
- CES 2011: Calibur11's 3D armored gaming cases
- So Hot Right Now: Top 10 Gadgetell posts for the week of January 02, 2011
- CES 2011: Samsung and Verizon announces the 4G LTE Mobile Hotspot
- CES 2011: SnakeByte booth tour featuring Move charge station, PS3 remote and MiniMote
- CES 2011: Griffin introduces possibly the coolest iPad accessory and app ever
- CES 2011 Hands-on: BlackBerry PlayBook
- CES 2011: Atlantic Inc. shows off the Spyder
- CES 2011 Hands-on: Samsung Galaxy Player
- CES 2011: LG revolutionizes Verizon with the Revolution, another 4G phone
- CES 2011: Visual Sports Arena will let you toss balls at your TV (with photos)
- CES 2011: Samsung TVs
- CES 2011: Samsung Galaxy Tab announced with LTE capability
- Japan Import: Chaos & Cosmos Limited Dissidia 012 PSP is detailed
- CES 2011 Hands-on: Sharp Galapagos eReaders
- CES 2011: Verizon Wireless announces the Samsung 4G LTE Android smartphone
- CES 2011: Mad Catz embraces PC and Mac with gaming lights, mobilemouse and USB video cards
- AT&T lowers iPhone 3GS pricing to $50 on contract
- CES 2011: Darth Vader Announces September Star Wars Blu-ray Releases
- Bifocals just became extinct - thanks electronically charged LCD crystals!
- Sony Ericsson confirms, no Android 2.2 Froyo for the Xperia X10
- CES 2011: Razer Switchblade portable gaming handheld looks amazing
- CES 2011: Verizon Wireless announces the HTC Thunderbolt, 4.3 inch touch screen with LTE
- Japan Import: Sony to release PSP Value Packs for Girls and Monster Hunter fans
- Verizon and Samsung announced yet-to-be-named LTE smartphone
- CES 2011: Introducing the Nike+ Sportwatch GPS
- CES 2011: Nyko shows off new PS3, Wii and Xbox 360 accessories
- CES 2011: Dell Venue Android smartphone announced, will feature 4.1 inch AMOLED display and more
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Section: Video, DVD/DVR/Blu-ray, HDTV Good news for Star Wars fans, well those fans that also happen to be into Blu-ray as the movies are now available for pre-order. The movies are expected to arrive in September, but you can go ahead and get your order in as of now. The pre-orders are coming by way of Amazon and there are three sets available. - Star Wars: The Complete Saga on Blu-ray (9-disc Set includes all six films)
- Star Wars: Prequel Blu-ray Trilogy (3-disc set includes Episodes I-III)
- Star Wars: Original Blu-ray Trilogy (3-disc set includes Episodes IV-VI)
The complete set is selling for $89.99 and the two smaller sets (the prequel and original trilogy) are each selling for $44.99. Product [Amazon: The Complete Saga] and [Amazon: The Prequel Trilogy] and [Amazon: The Original Trilogy] Keep reading to check out the full press release… THE FORCE IS STRONG WITH THIS ONE
THE MOST ANTICIPATED BLU-RAY RELEASE IN THE GALAXY
IS NOW AVAILABLE FOR WORLDWIDE PRE-ORDER STARTING TODAY
LAS VEGAS (Jan. 6, 2011) – The most anticipated Blu-ray release ever – the Star Wars™ Saga – emerges from light speed this September 2011. For the first time, all six of George Lucas' epic films (Episodes I-VI) are united in one complete set. Fans worldwide are able to pre-order now with online retailers.
Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment will release Star Wars in three distinct sets to meet the needs of every Star Wars fan:
- Star Wars: The Complete Saga on Blu-ray (9-disc Set includes all six films)
- Star Wars: Prequel Blu-ray Trilogy (3-disc set includes Episodes I-III)
- Star Wars: Original Blu-ray Trilogy (3-disc set includes Episodes IV-VI)
STAR WARS: THE COMPLETE SAGA ON BLU-RAY will feature all six live-action Star Wars feature films utilizing the highest possible picture and audio presentation, along with three additional discs and more than 30 hours of extensive special features including never-before-seen deleted and alternate scenes, an exploration of the exclusive Star Wars archives, and much more.
Star Wars: The Complete Saga on Blu-ray will be available for $139.99 US/$179.99 CAN and the Star Wars: Trilogy Sets for $69.99 US/89.99 CAN. Pricing for each set will vary by international territory.
Flanked by a legion of his finest Imperial Stormtroopers, Darth Vader himself joined Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment President Mike Dunn at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) to announce the release, vowing "The forces of the Empire will be at your disposal to assure the success of this endeavor.''
"The Star Wars Saga is the most anticipated Blu-ray collection since the launch of the high-def format," Dunn said. "The epic franchise pioneered sound and visual presentation in theaters and is perfectly suited to do it again in the home, with a viewing experience only possible with Blu-ray."
"With all six episodes available for the first time in one collection, this is a great way for families and home audiences to experience the complete Saga from start to finish," said Doug Yates, Vice President of Marketing, Online, Distribution, Lucasfilm Ltd. "And with the quality of high-definition, Blu-ray provides the most immersive home experience possible."
"The Star Wars franchise has been one of the most anticipated Blu-ray releases by Amazon's customers," said Bill Carr, Vice President of Music and Video at Amazon. "We think that Star Wars will be incredibly popular with our customers, and we expect pre-orders to be very strong."
Full Story » | Written by Robert Nelson for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Audio, Portable Audio, Web, Online Music/Video Slacker has been talking about their Premium Radio plan, which will bring on-demand listening for several months now. In fact, it was expected to arrive way back in October and well, as you can tell, that never happened. Needless to say, while we are just a little impatient about not being able to give Slacker more money each month, it looks like that may be changing soon and Slacker Premium Radio is coming. Or according to the word coming out of CES, it is coming “very very soon.” And by that, hopefully that means sometime in January. As for the price, that is expected to be $9.99 per month. Via [Zatz Not Funny] Full Story » | Written by Robert Nelson for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Video, HDTV, Trade Shows, CES In the past CES has been home to a great many large TVs. Last year the race to be the biggest was offset by the race to get the best 3D. Now Samsung is hoping that having the biggest 3DTV will mean something. Well, maybe not the biggest 3d TV but the biggest 3DTV backed by LEDs. This is Samsung’s 75-inch LED 3DTV. It’s pretty massive, to say the least. The best part is that this TV will actually make it to consumers one day. Samsung plans to have the TV out in the second half of this year. Unfortunately there’s no pricing yet, but expect to be paying quite a bit for the privilege. Full Story » | Written by Shawn Ingram for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Audio, Portable Audio, Computers, Mobile Computers The folks over at Slacker Radio have announced the latest in terms of apps, with the latest being for the iPad. “Built from the ground up, the new iPad app takes advantage of the iPad's large high-resolution display offering users a completely new music experience with access to all the benefits of Slacker Radio including the ability to view artist bios, album reviews, artist images and full-size album art like never before.”
The app sounds nice, and after seeing the images (in the gallery below) we have to say that we are excited, but at the same time we wish Slacker would have been a little more forthcoming as to when to expect the app to arrive. That said, with several iPads in the hands of the Gadgetell crew, we will have to be on the lookout. Full Story » | Written by Robert Nelson for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Gadgets / Other, Trade Shows, CES Remember Nabaztag, the Internet-connected bunny that would read you RSS feeds, light up and spin his ears? Well, there’s a new version, this time with the more easily pronounced and memorable name of Karotz. What make Karotz different? Well, this time it’s a bit more social. A lot of the functionality looks to be the same, reading email, RSS feeds, weather, alarm, and talking to others who have the device. Karotz is a bit more social now. Mindscape hopes to bring in a social network for talking to other rabbits online as a sort of dating service that costs $2.99 per month. For social, Karotz will also be able to read out your friends’ Twitter and Facebook updates should you want it to. There’s also an app store for Karotz on the device’s website. Mindscape hopes the community will connect to each other and makes apps to share with one another. So, yet another app store. Still it’s a cute bunny that reads your email, RSS feeds and social network feeds. Karotz will start at $129.99 in March, which includes the big bunny and two smaller RFID-chipped bunnies that the big one will recognize. More RFID bunnies can be bought for $12.49. Other accessories will include a music pack (dock, speakers), stickers, a 4GB “tail” (flash drive), and of course different colored ears. Read [Karotz] Full Story » | Written by Shawn Ingram for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Trade Shows, CES Of all the Android tablets, 3DTVs and new processors announced at CES, this is probably the most impactful product announcement of CES 2011. I’d go so far as to say that this product is perhaps the biggest launch at a CES ever, even bigger than Blu-ray Star Wars and Monster’s car cleaning solution. I’m speaking, of course, of Reese’s minis. Finally Hershey’s has managed to take Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and put them in a much, much smaller size, and put them in a bag unwrapped. Surely this is a major breakthrough. Now, Jake Gaeke of Appletell claims that his local Walmart broke the street date on these things last week, so I’m surprised that nobody’s been talking about these things yet. Anyway, enough of the build up, it’s time to actually try out this product. First off, it might be that my hands are still a bit slippery from using lotion recently, but this bag is a bit hard to open. Surely the candy must be worth it, though. Finally, after I manage to open the package, I am immediately hit with the smell of peanut butter. I’m reminded why I never eat Reese’s. I hate peanut butter. But, I can’t just not review a product because I didn’t like previous models. Plus, these cups are small, and easy to eat quickly. Ugh, just as I was expecting, Reese’s minis taste just like Reese’s cups. They’re smaller now, and easier to snack on, which I guess is a good thing, if you like peanut butter wrapped in chocolate, that is. Full Story » | Written by Shawn Ingram for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Computers, Hardware, Trade Shows, CES  Microsoft showed off their new and improved version of the Surface. Manufactured by Samsung, the new Surface will be only 4” thick with some heavy-duty gorilla glass for added screen protection. The device is no longer a giant box that can only be used as a table. Surface 2.0 can be mounted vertically to impersonate some sort of a futuristic touch-screen TV that you can find in Star Trek. The Surface also boasts a dual-core CPU and an AMD GPU. Now for the icing on the cake (or table). Each pixel on the Surface acts as a camera which could open up some seriously creative doors for developers somewhere down the line. Although there is no MSRP just yet, we can’t imagine that version 2.0 will be easy on anyone’s pocket (considering the price tag of the last model which sold for approximately $12,500). Apparently, the Surface was initially designed to be used in casinos, hotels and high-traffic restaurants. When you think about it, how much of the general public even knows what the Surface is? If you can remember far back enough, smartphones were once upon a time only used by business professionals until someone came across and saw a market for the average user. What could this mean for a device like the Surface in the future when it doesn’t cost as much as a Corolla? What could this mean for developers who could take such an interactive technology and find a way to integrate it into our daily lives? I know I’m getting ahead of myself, but tell me you wouldn’t want this more than an iPad. And why wouldn’t you? There’s no data charge. Read [ZdNet] Full Story » | Written by Tarun Kunwar for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Haven’t caught all of the Gadgetell news this week? Here's your chance to catch up on this week’s top 10 articles! - iPhone 5 can’t deny 4G
” Sprint’s Android-based Evo has held the 4G spotlight since its intro last June. This week at CES, we expect to see a slew of 4G phones introduced during Verizon’s keynote (and possibly the Verizon iPhone variant - fingers crossed). According to most metrics,…” MORE » - Amazon lists HTC EVO Shift 4G for pre-order, costs $199
” The upcoming Sprint 4G phone, the HTC EVO Shift 4G, hasn’t even been announced, yet many rumors of the device have surfaced and it is largely expected to be announced in the next week. However,…” MORE » - CES 2011: Kodak intros EasyShare Touch, Mini and Sport digital cameras
“Well, look here folks. Kodak is joining the CES 2011 fare by introducing three new funky-looking shooters under its EasyShare digital camera product brand. Quickly, we have the Kodak Easyshare Touch, Kodak Easyshare Mini and Kodak Easyshare Sport. Alright, let’s take a closer look at what these Kodak babies have…” MORE » - CES 2011: Samsung unveils the SH100 Wi-Fi digital camera
” Samsung’s contribution to CES 2011 comes in the form of a new digital camera which is actually not your ordinary digital camera because of one major feature - connectivity. And when we say connectivity we mean Wi-Fi connectivity which will allow…” MORE » - CES 2011: Kodak’s pocketable videocams go Playful and Playsport
” Aside from the three new digital cameras that Kodak is introducing just in time for the CES 2011, the Eastman company is also unveiling two new pocketable and HD-capable video cameras - the Kodak Playful and Kodak PlaySport. Kodak Playful offers…” MORE » - Latest HTC ads confirm 8MP camera, video conferencing on the Thunderbolt
” HTC has been pretty sly about its upcoming 4G smartphone, which much of the tech world is assuming to be the Thunderbolt slated for launch on Verizon Wireless. Even though we have seen many leaks regarding images and specs, HTC decided…” MORE » - Is Verizon secretly registering iPhone related domain names?
” The Verizon iPhone rumors seem to be at a point where they gave reached overload. The latest are suggesting that Verizon has begun secretly registering iPhone related domain names, such as iphoneonverizon.com. The details are…” MORE » - Not at CES 2011: HTC Scribe tablet
” According to DigiTimes, we won’t see the HTC Scribe tablet at CES this year. The HTC Scribe is supposedly an Android powered 7” tablet destined to compete with the Samsung tab (and the billions introduced this week from both…” MORE » - CES 2011: Motion announces the CL900 Windows 7 tablet
” Still in the mood for some CES tablet goodness? For a change, we have something from Motion announcing its new tablet PC dubbed Motion CL900. Unlike most of the tablets that we’ve covered - specifically Android tablets, the CL900…” MORE » - CES 2011: Samsung announces a number of improvements to TVs
” Last year we saw a lot of 3DTVs at CES. This year, there seems to be a lot of smart TVs. Samsung is the latest company to offer smart TVs along with a host of new features. This year, a full…” MORE »
Full Story » | Written by NEWS for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Communications, Cellular Providers, Smartphones, Mobile Samsung is really making a big splash at CES 2011 not only for several new things coming in for their highly successful Galaxy Tab but for other products as well. One of these products happen to be the new Samsung 4G LTE Mobile Hotspot which will be available under Verizon 4G LTE Mobile Broadband Network. The dual-mode 4G LTE Mobile Hotspot is a perfect dual-mode solution for urban mobile warriors as it serve as a wireless access point for up to five of your Wi-Fi enabled devices. Take note, all at the same time. And since we’re talking about 4G LTE network here, you are assured of up to 5 to 12 Mbps download speed and up to 2 to 5 Mbps upload speed. What’s good about this device is that it is also backward’s compatible with Verizon Wireless’ 3G network. So, you are pretty much assured of continous connection no even if 4G signal is not available. Pricing as well as other service plan details of the Samsung 4G LTE Mobile Hotspot under Verizon are still not available right now. Read [Verizon] Full Story » | Written by Arnold Zafra for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Apple, Communications, Accessories, Trade Shows, CES 
The iPad is great for kids, if you don’t believe me, hand the device to a young kid sometime and see how long it takes for them to give it back. Or, bring them to the iPad display in the Apple store and see how long you spend in the store if you don’t pull them away. It’s only natural then that Crayola would try to create something for the iPad for kids.
Yes, that’s right, Crayola. The crayon company has teamed with Griffin to create what could be the coolest iPad accessory yet, a stylus shaped like a Crayola crayon. To go along with the stylus, there’s an app called Crayola ColorStudio HD so you can color in pictures using all 64 colors of crayons, colored pencils, markers and pastels from Crayola. The app, when it launches will have 30 pictures to color, each with hidden easter eggs to discover. If you have the need, you can set the app to not allow coloring outside the lines. Or, if you don’t want to color in Griffin’s pictures, you can free sketch using the stylus on a blank canvas. The app can tell the difference between the stylus and your finger, so there’s no need to worry about messing up your picture by resting your hand on the screen. You’ll notice that I stopped mentioning kids in that paragraph. That’s because I personally want this stylus and app. I’m sure this will land me in JG Mason’s “Who’s on Crack in Tech,” but the Crayola stylus and app look to be some of the coolest things I’ve seen done on the iPad to date, especially in terms of just pure imagination. The stylus will be available sometime in Q1 2011 for $30, and the app will be free. Maybe a steep price for personal use, but likely invaluable if you have kids. Read [Griffin] Full Story » | Written by Shawn Ingram for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Communications, Mobile, Trade Shows, CES It’s been a while since the PlayBook was announced, and at CES we’re finally able to get out hands on it. After a few short minutes I remain impressed by the device. It may actually convince me that seven inches is a good size for tablets. Unfortunately RIM had the PlayBook locked down onto a stand so I wasn’t able to get a true feel for the device’s weight. The experience seemed fantastic, however. Running multiple apps was very smooth, even multiple graphics-based apps. It worked just like WebOS, to close an app simply swipe it up off the screen, or there’s a tiny “x” under the app that you can press to close it. That seems to be a theme of the PlayBook: there’s multiple ways to do everything. There’s two ways to close apps, two ways to look through open apps. Also taking a note from WebOS, the bezel of the PlayBook is touch sensitive, with swiping towards the screen from any direction bringing up something. From left or right brings the apps into the card-like view for switching, up from the bottom brings you to the home screen, and down from the top is a menu. Even the corners have actions: bottom left brings up keyboard from anywhere, even if you’re watching a video; top left brings up the time, battery, WiFi and setting top bar; I couldn’t figure out what top and bottom right did. If that seems like a lot to memorize, that’s because it is. In practice over time it might become second nature but for the few minutes I had, I was fumbling a bit. Despite the controls being a bit convoluted, I enjoyed just about everything else. The screen was bright and clear, with a fairly high resolution, I wasn’t playing spot the pixels like I do on my iPad all the time. The graphics on the apps were impressive, even if the most exciting one was essentially a video of Quake III. Typing was a bit awkward, but I could just as easily blame that on the angle RIM had the device set at. The dual HD cameras seemed pretty good, with some interesting options including close-up and whiteboard. After finally getting some hands-on time with the PlayBook I am still excited about it. Not sure if I’d consider buying it at this point, we’ll have to wait for a price point announcement. Full Story » | Written by Shawn Ingram for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Audio, Video, Gadgets / Other, Trade Shows, CES At it’s press conference before the start of CES, Samsung announced the latest version of it’s Galaxy Player, which is finally coming to the US. The company had the device on display at their booth, and I managed to get a few minutes to check out how it worked. The quick thing you need to know is the Galaxy Player is just like the Galaxy S phones. It has the same screen, same CPU, same Ui, same everything minus the cellular radios. Given the fact that the Galaxy S phones are some of the best Android phones on the market, that should give you can idea of how good the Galaxy Player is. The Galaxy Player is very responsive, as you’d expect, with all the apps you’d want installed. The music player isn’t exactly spectacular, but it get’s the job done. Same goes for the video player. The important part is that you can download apps to the Galaxy Player from the Android Market. Finally an Android competitor to the iPod touch. I personally find the media player frustrating, but it’ll be a good choice to try out Android apps without having to buy a second phone. Of note, the unit on display was the Korean model, so it had an antenna for mobile TV. It’s a great idea for that market, but there’s something a bit hilarious about a very advanced mobile device with an antenna that’s longer than the device itself to an American like myself. Full Story » | Written by Shawn Ingram for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Communications, Cellphones, Cellular Providers, Smartphones, Trade Shows, CES  Okay, maybe calling LG’s latest 4G smartphone revolutionizing is a bit of a stretch, but it is another solid smartphone with LTE capability on the Verizon Wireless network. The LG Revolution features a 4.3 inch touch screen, Android 2.2, Mobile Hotspot for 8 devices, DLNA, HDMI, DIVX capable, 16GB internal memory, 5MP rear facing camera, front facing camera, Bluetooth 3.0, and a single-core 1GHz processor.
No word on pricing or availability at this time, but as with most of the Verizon smartphones announced today, we should see a launch sometime in the first half of 2011. Via [Verizon] BASKING RIDGE, NJ — Verizon Wireless and LG Mobile Phones today announced the first 4G LTE smartphone from LG, the LG Revolution. With high-speed 4G LTE connectivity that puts users in the action, LG Revolution offers complete HD support for streaming, playing and recording video multimedia while on the go. Equipped with a chic design, large 4.3-inch touchscreen and Android 2.2 platform, LG Revolution is the ideal device for users ready to experience the next level of smartphone power. "LG Revolution combines the Verizon Wireless 4G LTE Mobile Broadband network with the power of Android 2.2 to deliver a blazingly fast experience," said Marni Walden, vice president and chief marketing officer for Verizon Wireless. "The introduction of the first 4G LTE smartphone from LG is a positive addition to our robust lineup of powerful smartphones." The Verizon Wireless 4G LTE Mobile Broadband network, launched in December 2010, is the fastest, most advanced 4G network in the United States, providing speeds up to 10 times faster than Verizon Wireless' 3G network. Verizon Wireless' 4G LTE Mobile Broadband network currently reaches one-third of all Americans, with plans to expand the network to the company's entire 3G coverage area over the next three years. "Being an innovation and technology leader has always been a top priority for LG and we are thrilled to unveil a new level of smartphone capabilities and features," said Tim O'Brien, vice president of marketing for LG Mobile. "LG Revolution marks the beginning of new technologies and products that will complement on-the-go consumers looking for high-speed connectivity in one compact device." LG Revolution will be on display at CES in Verizon Wireless' booth (#35216 in the South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center) and in LG's booth (#8205 in the Central Hall). For more information about Verizon Wireless' 4G LTE network, visit www.verizonwireless.com/lte and for more information about Verizon Wireless at CES, please visit www.verizonwireless.com/ces or follow the compay on Twitter at http://twitter.com/verizonwireless. Key features: 4G LTE – customers can expect download speeds of 5 to 12 Mbps and upload speeds of 2 to 5 Mbps in 4G Mobile Broadband coverage areas
4.3-inch capacitive touchscreen
Wi-Fi capable
Mobile Hotspot capability – share 4G connection with up to 8 Wi-Fi devices
DLNA, HDMI and DIVX capable
Video telephony support with front-facing camera
Android 2.2 technology for Google Mobile Services, including Gmail™, YouTube™, Google Talk, Google Voice and access to Android Market™
Virtual QWERTY keyboard
Bluetooth® 3.0 capabilities with support for Bluetooth Profiles Supported: Headset, Hands-Free, Dial-Up Networking, Object Push, Advanced Audio Distribution (stereo), Audio/Video Remote Control, Phone Book Access, and File Transfer
16GB internal memory with microSD™ card slot with expandable memory up to 32GB
Additional features: Proximity sensor instantly locks touchscreen while talking on the phone
Full suite of messaging options – Text, picture, video and voice messaging; corporate and personal e-mail accounts supported
5.0-megapixel autofocus camera with flash and camcorder that includes:
Five different camera resolutions and three different video resolutions
Macro Mode for detailed, up-close pictures
Image editor with zoom, rotate, resize, crop, added frames and stamps
Customize brightness, white balance, shutter sounds, color effects and use self-timer
Optimize video quality with normal, fine or super camcorder settings
Full Story » | Written by Natesh Sood for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Video, HDTV, Trade Shows, CES Last year, Samsung got mad at me everytime I tried to photograph their TVs. This year, I managed to get all the shots I could want without being yelled at. To prove it, here’s a quick tour of the TVs in Samsung’s booth. A lot of the TVs were surprisingly not 3D, but just simple lines of LED HDTVs with very thin bezels. These are the ones you should expect to see lining Best Buys walls within the next few months. All very bright, with good picture on the brief time I spent to scrutinize them. There were 3DTVs, including a wall of 3D video created by a number of 3D monitors, which was a bit overwhelming. Tucked i the corner of the booth was a 3D TV with a game of Crysis 2 being played on it, with a representative from Crytek (the development studio) helping people play the game. The game looked impressive on the TV, though you can’t tell from these shots. What you can see in the shots of the game is don’t bother trying to watch someone playing a game in 3D without 3D glasses on. No matter how pretty the game is, it will look very strange, and not leave a good impression on you, which is probably why Samsung didn’t want pictures of the TV taken. Full Story » | Written by Shawn Ingram for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Computers, Mobile Computers, Trade Shows, CES  The Samsung Galaxy Tab is already a pretty solid device, even if it only runs on Verizon Wireless’ 3G network. However, Verizon just announced today a new version of the Galaxy Tab, one that includes a faster processor and a better camera. In terms of wireless connectivity, the newer Galaxy Tab will operate on Verizon’s LTE network, thus maximizing its potential speed.
Most of the specs on the newer device remain the same as we have come to love on the older device—such as the 1.3MP front facing camera, 7 inch touch screen display, and 16GB internal memory. However, the processor will be upgraded to 1.2GHz Cortex A8 Hummingbird, while the camera goes from 3.2MP to 5MP. The tablet is still running Android 2.2, so don’t think a newer tablet means a more updated version of Android, but the Samsung pre-loaded goodies such as Media Hub and Social Hub are standard. As with most product announcements at CES, pricing and availability have yet to be revealed. Via [Samsung] Full Story » | Written by Natesh Sood for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 FROM GAMERTELL - If you collect limited edition PSPs, which would probably be an incredibly expensive hobby, then you’ll need to save up some money before March. When Dissidia 012 [duodecim]: Final Fantasy comes out on March 3, 2011, there’ll be a limited edition bundle to go with it. It comes with the… MORE » Full Story » | Written by NEWS for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Gadgets / Other, ebooks Oh, Sharp, why? You make TVs, TVs with red, green, blue, and yellow. Why do you need to try to make a tablet? Oh, right because everyone else is doing it, because that’s a good reason. What? Two tablets, 10 and 8 inches, and they’re just LCD eReaders? Okay, fine. To make a long story short, the Sharp Galapagos tablets aren’t much fun to use. They use the tried-and-true bookshelf metaphor for books, newspapers and comics. It’s obvious that the tablets are Japanese, as the magazines are mostly in the language, and comics, even the American comics, are read right-to-left. Launching books is no problem, when you can get the screen to work, or figure out the trackball on the 5-inch version. Once you get into the book, the text is huge and the only way to make it smaller is by pinching, which only seems to register a quarter of the time it’s done. On the comics, the only way to move forward seems to be by swiping to the right (books respond to the usual tapping on the side). The result on comics is something similar to Comixology, but not as flowing. Where Comixology will present just the panel, blanking out the rest of the screen, the Galapagos simply zooms in closer or pans down the page. I wouldn’t expect the Galapagos to reach US shores, but if it does I can’t imagine it performing well at all. Full Story » | Written by Shawn Ingram for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Communications, Cellphones, Cellular Providers, Smartphones, Trade Shows, CES  After seeing HTC, Motorola, and LG announce their respective LTE smartphones on Verizon Wireless, Samsung said “why not me?” and quickly announced a phone without properly assigning a name to it. The nameless Samsung smartphone is referred as Samsung 4G LTE smartphone by Verizon in its press release. Some of the main features of the LTE smartphone include 4.3 inch Super AMOLED Plus display, 1GHz processor, 8MP rear facing camera, 1.3MP front facing camera, Swype, and Android 2.2 As standard in the Galaxy S lineup of devices and the Galaxy Tab, the Samsung 4G LTE smartphone will have access to the Samsung Media Hub. No word on whether or not it will launch under the Galaxy S brand, but I don’t see why not, as Samsung has had enormous success with the brand.
Via [Verizon] BASKING RIDGE, NJ — From the 2011 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES), Verizon Wireless and Samsung Telecommunications America (Samsung Mobile) today announced that the Samsung 4G LTE smartphone will be available on the Verizon Wireless 4G LTE Mobile Broadband network. Powered by an Android 2.2 operating system, the Samsung 4G LTE smartphone is equipped with Google Mobile services, including Google Search™, Google Maps™, Gmail™, YouTube™ and access to more than 100,000 applications on Android Market™. The Samsung 4G LTE smartphone boasts a brilliant 4.3-inch Super AMOLED™ Plus touch screen display, powerful 1GHz application processor and HTML5 Web browser that uses high-speed 4G LTE connectivity for faster downloads. Designed with a rear-facing 8-megapixel camera with LED flash and front-facing 1.3-megapixel camera, the Samsung 4G LTE smartphone supports video chat capabilities. Messaging is made simple on the Samsung 4G LTE smartphone with a virtual QWERTY keyboard equipped with Swype™ technology. Additionally, the Samsung 4G LTE smartphone will come preloaded with popular LTE-specific applications. "The Samsung 4G LTE smartphone is an ideal option for those who look to Samsung Mobile for sleek and innovative devices combined with blazing fast speeds of Android 2.2 on the nation's most advanced 4G network," said Marni Walden, vice president and chief marketing officer for Verizon Wireless. "This powerful combination enables our customers to connect face to face with family and friends, while still enjoying premium multimedia and social networking features backed by the Verizon Wireless 4G LTE Mobile Broadband network." The 4G LTE smartphone has access to Samsung's Media Hub content service available on the 4G LTE network, which offers a robust collection of premium movies and TV episodes from some of the biggest entertainment companies for purchase and rental. Users can stay connected with Samsung's Social Hub, built around messaging, contacts and calendar sync, which allows users to send and receive information, whether it is e-mail, social network updates or text messages. The Verizon Wireless 4G LTE Mobile Broadband network, launched in December 2010, is the fastest, most advanced 4G network in the United States, providing speeds up to 10 times faster than Verizon Wireless' 3G network. Verizon Wireless' 4G LTE Mobile Broadband network currently reaches one-third of all Americans, with plans to expand the network to the company's entire 3G coverage area over the next three years. The Samsung 4G LTE smartphone will be on display at CES 2011 in Verizon Wireless' booth (#35216 in the South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center) and in the Samsung booth (#12006 in the Central Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center). For more information about Verizon Wireless' 4G LTE network, visit www.verizonwireless.com/lte. For more information about Verizon Wireless at CES, please visit www.verizonwireless.com/ces or follow the company on Twitter at http://twitter.com/verizonwireless. For more information about the Samsung 4G LTE smartphone, visit www.samsung.com.
Full Story » | Written by Natesh Sood for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Apple, Communications, Cellphones, Cellular Providers, Smartphones  Looking to score a pretty decent smartphone on AT&T for an inexpensive price? Well, consider the iPhone 3GS for which AT&T lowered the price to $50 on a new two year contract. The offer will officially start on Friday, January 7 and take place in all retail AT&T stores as well as its online web store. The iPhone 3GS may not be the most advanced Apple smartphone, it certainly holds its own and features the latest version of iOS. The lowest monthly data plan offered on AT&T is $15, thus the iPhone 3GS can be yours at a very affordable price point.
Via [PRNewswire] The full press release can be read below: DALLAS, Jan. 6, 2011 /PRNewswire/—AT&T* today announced a new price for the popular iPhone 3GS—$49.00—available beginning tomorrow, Friday, January 7, for both new and upgrade-eligible existing AT&T customers. The offer will be available online at www.att.com/iphone, across more than 2,200 AT&T retail locations nationwide and through AT&T business channels, as well as Apple channels.**
Available only on the nation’s fastest mobile broadband network, iPhone 3GS delivers the following advantages unique to AT&T and its customers:
Allows for true smartphone multi-tasking, such as talking and using applications at the same time, on AT&T’s mobile broadband network
Provides access to our entire national Wi-Fi network with nearly 23,000 hotspots
Provides the best global coverage with wireless voice and data access in more than 200 countries “We want to deliver the best, most complete package for our customers—from price, to speed, to worldwide access and more,” said David Christopher, chief marketing officer of AT&T Mobility and Consumer Markets. “Combined with our new, lower monthly data plans beginning at just $15 a month, this new price brings even more value to one of the most popular devices in our leading lineup of smartphones. We’re very excited for more people to experience iPhone on the nation’s fastest mobile broadband network.”
iPhone 3GS gives users access to the latest iPhone iOS 4 software plus the revolutionary App Store. Additional information is available at www.apple.com.
*AT&T products and services are provided or offered by subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. under the AT&T brand and not by AT&T Inc.
**Price for 3GS sold in Apple channels is determined by Apple.
Requires new 2-year wireless voice agmt of $39.99 or higher with min $15/mo plan. Subject to wireless customer agrmt. Internal roaming rates or charges apply. Credit approval req’d. Activ. fee up to $36/line. Coverage & svcs, including mobile broadband, not avail everywhere. Geographic, usage & other conditions & restrictions (that may result in svc termination) apply. Taxes & other chrgs apply. See store or visit att.com for details and coverage map. Early Termination Fee (ETF): None if cancelled during first 30 days, but a $35 restocking fee may apply; after 30 days, ETF up to $325 applies (details att.com/equipmentETF). Regulatory Cost Recovery Charge up to $1.25/mo. is chrg’d to help defray costs of complying with gov’t obligations & chrgs on AT&T & is not a tax or gov’t req’d chrg. Wi-Fi: Access includes AT&T Wi-Fi Basic.
Full Story » | Written by Natesh Sood for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 FROM HOMETECHTELL - Unfortunately my video camera went kerflooey literally seconds before the event began, but in a packed-to-the-gills Panasonic booth this morning at CES, Darth Vader himself (no, really, it was actually him) officially took the lids of of the Star Wars Saga’s September Blu-ray releases. Details were scant, but we did… MORE » Full Story » | Written by NEWS for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Gadgets / Other, Green, Lifestyle  If you think a pair of glasses taped together at the nose bridge was geeky, then PixelOptics has just upped the ante with their EmPower glasses. These glasses feature a bit more than glass and plastic to make your vision better. On board, the glasses sport an accelerometer, battery, and focusing lenses.
Forget today’s bifocal lenses, EmPower has LCD crystals that when charged can change the focus of of the glasses. This can happen at the touch of a tiny button on the frame or set the accelerometer to do the job - simply tilt your head down for reading to activate the charge. Sounds so simple now. “Wearers will instantly achieve optimal vision no matter where they look – far, near, or in-between. In addition, lenses based on PixelOptics electronic technology will dramatically reduce distortion typically associated with conventional state-of-the-art bifocals and progressive addition lenses. This is accomplished by changing the index of refraction of an electro-active layer located within the lens. This technology is the first ophthalmic solution that crosses over into the consumer electronic health sector.” Sound good enough? Users will pay a 25-30% premium for the technology and still require a prescription as a doctor will still be required to set up the glasses custom for your vision. The glasses will also need to be charged at night. That’s one more battery charger I think we can deal with. Available this April. Company site: [PixelOptics]
image credite: PCMag Full Story » | Written by JG Mason for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Communications, Cellphones, Cellular Providers, Smartphones The Sony Ericsson Xperia X10 is an impressive Android smartphone available on AT&T, but unfortunately, it will remain stuck on an outdated version of Android—Android 2.1. Today, Sony Ericsson confirmed its refusal to launch Android 2.2 for the Xperia X10, X10 mini and X10 mini pro. However, Sony Ericsson did promise future software updates, such as an update for multitouch, but don’t expect anything nearly as big or impressive as Froyo for the aging device. Via [AndroidCommunity] Full Story » | Written by Natesh Sood for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Communications, Cellphones, Cellular Providers, Smartphones 
The highly anticipated HTC Thunderbolt, which we all knew would be announced sometime at CES 2011, has been officially unveiled by Verizon Wireless during its press conference. Unfortunately, not many details regarding the Thunderbolt is known at this time, but what is known pretty much reaffirms the information leaked by previous rumors. The HTC Thunderbolt, Verizon’s version of the HTC EVO on Sprint, features a 4.3 inch touch screen, single core 1GHz processor, 8MP rear facing camera, Android 2.2, HTC Sense 2.0, wireless DLNA capability, and a front facing camera. In addition, it features a kick-stand, 32GB microSD memory included, Dolby and SRS surround sound, and Mobile hotspot with 8 connected devices. No word on pricing or availability on this hot smartphone just yet, but we anticipate a launch in the first half of 2011. Via [Verizon] BASKING RIDGE, NJ — At the 2011 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES), Verizon Wireless and HTC today unveiled its newest 4G smartphone, the HTC ThunderBolt, one of the world's first 4G LTE Android smartphones, coming soon exclusively to the Verizon Wireless 4G LTE Mobile Broadband network. Taking advantage of Verizon Wireless' 4G LTE network and the intuitiveness of the HTC Sense user experience, HTC ThunderBolt is one of the first smartphones to integrate Skype mobile™ with video calling. Rather than relying on a standalone application, a Skype mobile with video call can be made as easily as a standard voice call – with features like presence icons that indicate the availability status of friends built into the standard contacts list. A front-facing camera enables simple video calling, and the 4.3-inch display brings friends and family into clear focus. HTC ThunderBolt features exceptional speed and power with the newest generation of the blazing-fast 1GHz Snapdragon processor. Verizon Wireless customers will also enjoy the premium HTC Sense user experience, running on the Android 2.2 platform. Creating and consuming mobile multimedia content is made possible with a stunning 4.3-inch WVGA display, Dolby surround sound, 8-megapixel camera and HD video recording. With wireless DLNA capability, the HTC ThunderBolt can easily stream and share content directly with compatible home theater components, including HDTVs and stereo receivers that feature built-in DLNA support. "We are proud to not only be bringing one of the first 4G LTE Android smartphones to the Verizon Wireless network, but to offer people the unprecedented speed and ease of use that the HTC ThunderBolt provides to them," said Jason Mackenzie, president of HTC Americas. "What makes 4G so compelling is not just technology, but what the technology allows people to do. With HTC ThunderBolt and the Verizon Wireless 4G LTE network, 4G is brought to life as people stay connected with friends, family and content faster than ever before possible." "Our 4G LTE network and the HTC Sense user experience combine to enable our customers to connect with friends, family and information on a whole new level," said Marni Walden, vice president and chief marketing officer for Verizon Wireless. "Customers will see the difference of 4G speeds when accessing content via the Web, Android applications or other Verizon Wireless applications." The Verizon Wireless 4G LTE Mobile Broadband network, launched in December 2010, is the fastest, most advanced 4G network in the United States, providing speeds up to 10 times faster than Verizon Wireless' 3G network. Verizon Wireless' 4G LTE Mobile Broadband network currently reaches one-third of all Americans, with plans to expand the network to the company's entire 3G coverage area over the next three years. The HTC ThunderBolt will be on display at CES in Verizon Wireless' booth (#35216 in the South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center). For more information about Verizon Wireless' 4G LTE network, visit www.verizonwireless.com/lte and for more information about Verizon Wireless at CES, please visit www.verizonwireless.com/ces or follow the company on Twitter at http://twitter.com/verizonwireless. For more information about the HTC ThunderBolt, please visit www.verizonwireless.com/thunderbolt. Key Features: 4G LTE – customers can expect download speeds of 5 to 12 Mbps and upload speeds of 2 to 5 Mbps in 4G Mobile Broadband coverage areas
4.3-inch WVGA display
Mobile Hotspot capability – share 4G connection with up to 8 Wi-Fi devices
Android 2.2 platform
32GB microSD card included
HTC Sense 2.0 with new features, including Fast Boot
Built-in kickstand for easy media viewing
Dolby and SRS surround sound
Fully integrated Skype mobile experience
720p HD video recording
DLNA streaming multimedia support
For additional information on Verizon Wireless products and services, visit a Verizon Wireless Communications Store, call 1-800-2 JOIN IN or go to www.verizonwireless.com.
Full Story » | Written by Natesh Sood for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Communications, Cellular Providers, Smartphones, Mobile Samsung and Verizon announced a new LTE compatible smartphone during CES and what we can tell you is that the handset is going to feature a 4.3 inch Super AMOLED Plus display, 1GHz processor, 8 megapixel camera on the back, 1.3 megapixel camera on the front and come running Android 2.2. Those specs combined with what appears to be a nice looking handset and we may have something to look forward to seeing come available. That said, we cannot tell you what to look forward to because neither Samsung or Verizon offered a name for this Samsung made, Verizon branded, LTE capable smartphone. With that and similar to the name, the price and release date also remain a mystery. Read [Samsung] Keep reading to check out the full press release… VERIZON WIRELESS AND SAMSUNG MOBILE ANNOUNCE SAMSUNG'S FIRST 4G LTE-ENABLED SMARTPHONE
January 6, 2011 Features Android 2.2 platform, Super AMOLED™ Plus Display, 1GHz Application Processor and Rear and Front-Facing Cameras
LAS VEGAS and BASKING RIDGE, N.J. – From the 2011 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES), Verizon Wireless and Samsung Telecommunications America (Samsung Mobile) today announced that the Samsung 4G LTE smartphone will be available on the Verizon Wireless 4G LTE Mobile Broadband network. . Powered by an Android 2.2 operating system, the Samsung 4G LTE smartphone is equipped with Google Mobile services, including Google Search™, Google Maps™, Gmail™, YouTube™ and access to more than 100,000 applications on Android Market™. The Samsung 4G LTE smartphone boasts a brilliant 4.3-inch Super AMOLED™ Plus touch screen display, powerful 1GHz application processor and HTML5 Web browser that uses high-speed 4G LTE connectivity for faster downloads. Designed with a rear-facing 8-megapixel camera with LED flash and front-facing 1.3-megapixel camera, the Samsung 4G LTE smartphone supports video chat capabilities. Messaging is made simple on the Samsung 4G LTE smartphone with a virtual QWERTY keyboard equipped with Swype™ technology. Additionally, the Samsung 4G LTE smartphone will come preloaded with popular LTE-specific applications. "The Samsung 4G LTE smartphone is an ideal option for those who look to Samsung Mobile for sleek and innovative devices combined with blazing fast speeds of Android 2.2 on the nation's most advanced 4G network," said Marni Walden, vice president and chief marketing officer for Verizon Wireless. "This powerful combination enables our customers to connect face to face with family and friends, while still enjoying premium multimedia and social networking features backed by the Verizon Wireless 4G LTE Mobile Broadband network." The 4G LTE smartphone has access to Samsung's Media Hub content service available on the 4G LTE network, which offers a robust collection of premium movies and TV episodes from some of the biggest entertainment companies for purchase and rental. Users can stay connected with Samsung's Social Hub, built around messaging, contacts and calendar sync, which allows users to send and receive information, whether it is e-mail, social network updates or text messages. The Verizon Wireless 4G LTE Mobile Broadband network, launched in December 2010, is the fastest, most advanced 4G network in the United States, providing speeds up to 10 times faster than Verizon Wireless' 3G network. Verizon Wireless' 4G LTE Mobile Broadband network currently reaches one-third of all Americans, with plans to expand the network to the company's entire 3G coverage area over the next three years. The Samsung 4G LTE smartphone will be on display at CES 2011 in Verizon Wireless' booth (#35216 in the South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center) and in the Samsung booth (#12006 in the Central Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center). For more information about Verizon Wireless' 4G LTE network, visit www.verizonwireless.com/lte. For more information about Verizon Wireless at CES, please visit www.verizonwireless.com/ces or follow the company on Twitter at http://twitter.com/verizonwireless. For more information about the Samsung 4G LTE smartphone, visit www.samsung.com.
Full Story » | Written by Robert Nelson for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Gadgets / Other, GPS/Navigation, Lifestyle If there’s one new product announced at CES 2011 that I’m really looking forward to, it has to be this one from Nike - the Nike+ Sportwatch GPS. I could certainly use this gadget for my running activities. The Nike+ Sportwatch GPS is a collaboration between Nike and Tom Tom. It’s a beautifully designed sportswatch that connects you with to nikeplus.com. If you’re a serious runner, you’re probably a member of this community. The Nike+ SportWatch GPS features a nice interface that provides you with the necessary information while you run. It also gives you some personalization option as well as motivational feature to enhance your running experience such as sounds, challenges, run reminders and more. The Sportswatch has three buttons and a full tap screen navigation. It captures your location information and shows you your running time, distance, paces and calories you’ve burned so far, similar to the information you get when you’re using a threadmill indoors. Other features include - run history, personal records, quick start with optional shoe-based Nike+ Sensor, heart rate monitor, run reminders, post-run acknowledgement and encouragement and other motivational features. The Nike+ SportWatch GPS will available in the U.S. and U.K markets starting April. Prices are still unknown at this time. Here’s a nice short product video.  Read [Business Wire], Product [Nike+ Sportswatch GPS] Full Story » | Written by Arnold Zafra for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Communications, Cellular Providers, Smartphones, Mobile Dell has officially announced the Venue smartphone, which will arrive as an Android 2.2 device. Other features of the Dell Venue include a 4.1 inch (800 x 480) Gorilla Glass touchscreen display, 1GHz processor, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 2.1, 3.5mm headphone jack, aGPS, microSD card slot, 1400 mAh battery and 8 megapixel camera. With that, we are left wondering when it will be available and how much it will be selling for. According to the information from Dell, those details will be announced “in the coming weeks.” Read [Direct2Dell] Full Story » | Written by Robert Nelson for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
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Hulu has announced that a Hulu Plus app will be coming to Android. Well, more accurately, it will be coming to “select” Android phones—those running Android 2.2 will be the lucky ones. Otherwise, not much was given in terms of details of the release and as of now it was noted as a fairly general timeframe of sometime in the “coming months.” 
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