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LG's 55-inch OLED TV gets official design, possible €9,000 price tag (update 3: LG fills in more)

Jon Fingas — Wed, 23 May 2012 16:12:00 EST

LG has been ~~coy~~ quiet about details of its 55-inch OLED TV since we saw its hyper-rich organic colors at CES, but it just nailed down a number of details at a ~~Monte Carlo~~ Monaco event. The 55EM9600 has seen its display base get visibly bigger now that the screen isn't being specially perched at a trade show, but the redesign and using a carbon fiber back has let it shed an extra millimeter of thickness, down to 4mm (0.16 inches). The steadier footing puts all the AV connectors at the back, while a trio of USB ports sit on the side for those who often share media from their cameras and flash drives. LG wouldn't give our Spanish team definite release info about the OLED set, but there's been repeated murmurs of a European price of about €9,000 ($11,313) and a possible release as soon as July, just inside LG's official target of the second half of the year. Certainly not the most frugal TV you can buy at this size if that's true, then, but it'll certainly get everyone's attention -- now where's our US details?

Update: There's now a swishy promo video below, plus some English language details at the source link.

Update 2: For those who'd like a bit more reading material, we've added the full PR after the break.

Update 3: LG has also helped settle some of the details that it can share at this early stage: July isn't looking likely, but the price could be on the sunnier side, tentatively edging closer to €8,000 ($10,063).

Gallery: LG 55EM9600 press shots

Continue reading LG's 55-inch OLED TV gets official design, possible €9,000 price tag (update 3: LG fills in more)

LG's 55-inch OLED TV gets official design, possible €9,000 price tag (update 3: LG fills in more) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 23 May 2012 16:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Amazon adds 'hundreds' of Paramount movies to Prime, signals a Clear and Present Danger to free time

Jon Fingas — Wed, 23 May 2012 10:49:00 EST

Amazon is keeping its pace of expanding Amazon Prime's video collection every few months, and today it's Paramount's turn to swell the ranks. Instant Video is getting 'hundreds' of Paramount's movies, including both relatively recent movies like Nacho Libre and Mission: Impossible III as well as back catalog titles like Breakfast at Tiffany's and Clear and Present Danger. As always, the movies are watchable anywhere you've got broadband, and they don't add a premium to the $79 yearly Prime subscription. Just be prepared to explain why you're watching Urban Cowboy on your Kindle Fire at the airport.

Amazon adds 'hundreds' of Paramount movies to Prime, signals a Clear and Present Danger to free time originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 23 May 2012 10:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Dolby ups TrueHD lossless audio on Blu-ray to 96k, says every upsampled bit is amazing (video)

Jon Fingas — Fri, 18 May 2012 07:51:00 EST

Just because your home theater can handle lossless audio doesn't mean the sound is as good as it could be. Dolby is now giving Blu-ray producers using Dolby Media Producer Encoder v2 the choice of premastering TrueHD surround sound at an upsampled 96k. Along with just squeezing the most possible clarity and depth out of 48kHz audio, the encoding purportedly eliminates some of the harshness of digital sound through an apodizing (signal altering) filter. At least three projects have already been given the 96k treatment, and authoring firms like Technicolor have upgrades in place to give that noticeable boost to your next Blu-ray movie.

Continue reading Dolby ups TrueHD lossless audio on Blu-ray to 96k, says every upsampled bit is amazing (video)

Dolby ups TrueHD lossless audio on Blu-ray to 96k, says every upsampled bit is amazing (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 18 May 2012 07:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Panasonic, Sony purportedly entering into OLED TV team-up, torrid love affair

Jon Fingas — Mon, 14 May 2012 17:51:00 EST

Sony might not have taken long to find a new date in the TV scene after breaking up with Samsung late last year: if you believe Nikkei, Panasonic is the belle of the ball. The two Japanese firms are reportedly hoping to speed up the development of cheap, mass-produced OLED TVs by sharing each other's design techniques, including a Panasonic method for printing OLEDs on a scale that lets the company avoid $9,000 price tags. Neither Panasonic nor Sony has confirmed the talks, of course, and there's no guarantee a partnership will emerge even if it truly gets hot and heavy. Still, if real, we'll be on the lookout for a PanaSony OLED TV at CES in the future.

Panasonic, Sony purportedly entering into OLED TV team-up, torrid love affair originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 14 May 2012 17:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Samsung Canada launches Cineplex Store app, offers paid movies on 'select' Smart devices

Joe Pollicino — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 07:58:00 EST

Folks in Canada using Samsung's Smart lineup of home theater equipment have a new app to be excited about, thanks in part to Cineplex Entertainment. The two companies have teamed up for a video-on-demand app, dubbed Cineplex Store, which will allow owners of "select models of Samsung's Smart TVs, Blu-ray players and home theater systems" to purchase or rent videos from the comfort of their couches. Pricing is set from about three to five bucks for 48-hour unlimited play rentals (from the time you hit play within a 30-day period), while buying titles outright will cost ya between $10 and $20 -- all without any pesky contracts. Notably, for those prices you'll also be able to store your content in a "digital locker" and rack up Scene points with Cineplex. While it appears that there's nary mention of which Smart devices are compatible, you can hit up the source link below and the press release after break for more details.

Continue reading Samsung Canada launches Cineplex Store app, offers paid movies on 'select' Smart devices

Samsung Canada launches Cineplex Store app, offers paid movies on 'select' Smart devices originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 23 Apr 2012 07:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Netflix snags DVD.com domain, invests in the future of optical media

Zach Honig — Fri, 30 Mar 2012 14:21:00 EST

Looking for a shortcut to Netflix's home on the web? Try hitting up DVD.com -- it'll take you there, for now. The latest address to join the family of Netflix redirects actually brings you to a subdomain -- dvd.netflix.com -- suggesting that the company could once again be planning to split its streaming and physical media services, at least from an access perspective. A shareholder letter lists the company's U.S. DVD subscriptions at 11.17 million at the end of Q4, bringing in a total of $370 million in revenue, with a profit of $194 million. Compare this to domestic streaming, which represents $476 million in revenue with a mere $52 million profit, and it's clear that the DVD rental market is still quite strong. So what could this latest domain acquisition mean for snail mail subscribers? DVD-only customers may soon have a new site to call home, with focused content and perhaps an upsell opportunity or two. At the very least, it certainly can't hurt when it comes to SEO.

Netflix snags DVD.com domain, invests in the future of optical media originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 30 Mar 2012 14:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Apple TV (2012) hands-on!

Darren Murph — Wed, 07 Mar 2012 14:47:00 EST

It's not that the new Apple TV wasn't rumored, but still -- announcing it here at the new iPad launch? Bold, Apple. Really bold. Looks as if Apple's hobby is now becoming a right-hand man for the iPad, and given the increasing importance placed on AirPlay, it's no wonder that the next Apple TV feels less like a standalone box and more like a killer $99 accessory for your iPad. We got a brief look at the new 1080p-capable set-top box here in San Francisco, and not surprisingly, it's small. Really small. In fact, it's just as tiny as the prior Apple TV. It's hard to glean much about the functionality given the limited setup we're seeing here, but suffice it to say, to-be iPad buyers are apt to become the largest sect of Apple TV buyers if the two are marketed together correctly.

It'll ship alongside the new iPad on March 16th for $99, with a revamped user interface and 1080p output being the only notable differences. Same HDMI output, and we're told that those with slower connections can opt out of 1080p in the settings menu. Moreover, content partners are working around the clock to add 1080p versions to the store, and naturally SD and 720p content will remain for those on older Apple TV units. You can bet that we'll be taking a long, hard look at the wire-free wizardry in our full review; for now, however, there's a gallery of shots below demanding your attention.

Gallery: Apple TV (2012) hands-on!

For more coverage of Apple's iPad event, visit our hub!

Apple TV (2012) hands-on! originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 14:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Bowers and Wilkins refreshes M-1 speaker and PV1D subwoofer, new Mini Theater bundles coming soon

Sharif Sakr — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 09:36:00 EST

B&W will soon have something new for every corner of your media consumption shrine. The six-year-old M-1 compact monitor is getting improved drivers, offering "enhanced full-range performance," while the PV1D subwoofer benefits from a more complete redesign. It now boasts the same digital platform as the flagship DB1, a new OLED display and other fresh specs including a dynamic EQ circuit and a low 7.5Hz cut off. The only component of the Mini Theater range that'll keep its old guts is the ASW608 subwoofer, which is now available in matte white to match that option with the M-1s. Look to spend $250 on each monitor, $1,700 on the PV1D and $500 on the ASW608, but check the press release first for more details and bundle options. Availability starts "early 2012."

Continue reading Bowers and Wilkins refreshes M-1 speaker and PV1D subwoofer, new Mini Theater bundles coming soon

Bowers and Wilkins refreshes M-1 speaker and PV1D subwoofer, new Mini Theater bundles coming soon originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 14 Feb 2012 09:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Scosche bassDOCK blasts Weezer from any iPad, available now for $150

Billy Steele — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 17:51:00 EST

If you're having trouble wading through the pool of iPad dock prospects, we're about to add another to the mix. Scosche has announced that its bassDOCK for both iPad models is now shipping. The dock will blast "My Name is Jonas" from a pair of 1.6-inch stereo speakers and a 3-inch subwoofer. As you'd expect, the kit charges your Apple slate in a cradle that sports both landscape and portrait orientations alongside tilt positioning for the optimum viewing angle. If you find yourself needing to switch over to a smartphone to bump your tunes, the bassDOCK has a 3.5mm aux jack for just that purpose. The speaker dock is available now via the source link for $149.99 and a closer look awaits you in the gallery below.

Gallery: Scosche bassDOCK for iPad

Continue reading Scosche bassDOCK blasts Weezer from any iPad, available now for $150

Scosche bassDOCK blasts Weezer from any iPad, available now for $150 originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 17:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Google reportedly working on wireless home entertainment system to be sold under its own brand

Donald Melanson — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 17:09:00 EST

Details are still fairly light at the moment, but The Wall Street Journal is reporting today that Google could be about to make big push into the hardware business. Citing people briefed on the company's plans, the WSJ says that Google is now developing a home entertainment system that would stream music wirelessly throughout the home (including to web-connected devices and "Google-made speakers"), and be able to be controlled using a smartphone or tablet -- making it sound a whole lot like a Sonos competitor. What's more, unlike current Android and Google TV devices, this system will reportedly be marketed under Google's own brand. An attempt to really turn it up to eleven, perhaps?

Google reportedly working on wireless home entertainment system to be sold under its own brand originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 17:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Tim Cook says Apple TV is still 'a hobby,' can't live without it

Billy Steele — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 17:52:00 EST

Looking forward to an update to your beloved Apple TV? It seems the company still fancies the device as well. On the quarterly numbers call today, Tim Cook quipped that "we still classify this as a hobby, but we continue to add things to it." He went on to say that the company will "continue to pull strings and see where we can take it." This comes on the heels of Cupertino seeing a record 1.4 million units sold last quarter.

Tim Cook says Apple TV is still 'a hobby,' can't live without it originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 24 Jan 2012 17:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sony reveals SS-AR2 loudspeaker, wants an invite to your next house party

Billy Steele — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 22:32:00 EST

Sony has been quite busy chatting up new products for 2012 here at CES. One of the new pieces of tech is the SS-AR2 loudspeaker that looks to keep the up the reputation of its elder sibling in the R-Series line, the SS-AR1. Maple from Hokkaido, an island in northern Japan encloses all the important components and contributes to the overall sound quality. The SS-AR2 is a 4-unit, 3-way vented standing tower that sports a frequency response ranging from 42Hz to 60kHz. Distortion is combated by positioning the bass reflex port in just the right to spot to allow a duo of woofers to drive without a hitch. Birch partitions on the interior construct a well-insulated cavity keeping the midrange and tweeters just the right distance apart from the bass section -- and all those tones neat and tidy. NO word on pricing on availability as of yet, but you'll want to start bench pressing phone books before picking one up, as each unit tips the scale at 84 pounds.

Continue reading Sony reveals SS-AR2 loudspeaker, wants an invite to your next house party

Sony reveals SS-AR2 loudspeaker, wants an invite to your next house party originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 10 Jan 2012 22:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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SMK-Link releases Wireless Ultra-Mini Touchpad Keyboard for your inner sloth

Amar Toor — Fri, 18 Nov 2011 18:47:00 EST

Exerting energy goes against the very fiber of our 21st century ethos -- which is why SMK-Link has come out with the Wireless Ultra-Mini Touchpad Keyboard. Available in both Mac- and PC-compatible versions, this little handheld allows users to surf the web, send texts, or control their home entertainment systems from up to 30 feet away. Featuring both a raised QWERTY keyboard and capacitive touchpad, SMK-Link's latest battery-powered creation boasts 20 function keys, seven hot keys and a dedicated Windows Media Center Start button (on the PC version, naturally). And, since it doesn't require any software drivers, all you have to do is plug in the RF receiver, sit back, and marinate your afternoon away. You can grab one now for $69 at the source link, below. Otherwise, swerve past the break for a drop of PR.

Continue reading SMK-Link releases Wireless Ultra-Mini Touchpad Keyboard for your inner sloth

SMK-Link releases Wireless Ultra-Mini Touchpad Keyboard for your inner sloth originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 18 Nov 2011 18:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Code wizardry turns MythTV into Windows legend

Daniel Cooper — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 11:11:00 EST

There are plenty of myths that surround MythTV: it's for hardcore enthusiasts only, you need a dedicated Linux box and that it's totally incompatible with Redmond's offerings. Whilst Microsoft HTPC users could previously access recordings, they didn't get the live TV, commercial skipping and DVR powers that the software is famous for. That's all changing, thanks to a group of developers who have ported the native front end to Windows. You can either grab a pre-compiled binary of the project, or for those who wish to do it themselves, follow our source link to find all the details.

Code wizardry turns MythTV into Windows legend originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 08 Nov 2011 11:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Intel may be giving up on smart TVs, ceding market to ARM

Terrence O'Brien — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 13:42:00 EST

Well, it looks like Intel is throwing in the smart TV towel. As originally reported by AnandTech, and now confirmed by the company itself, Chipzilla is closing down its Digital Home Group and folding the team and resources into its tablet division. Its CE processors, which are found in the Boxee Box and the Logitech Revue, will continue to be sold, but it sounds like the focus will shift away from consumer-facing products. Obviously, that leaves the door wide open for ARM to sweep in. We already know that Google TV will be making the move to ARM-based hardware soon and the Boxee Box started life on Tegra before making the move to an Atom CE4100 (not to mention the A4-sporting Apple TV), so this isn't entirely new ground for the big players. Still, we're a little shocked to see Intel abandon the market just as it seems to be picking up steam.

Intel may be giving up on smart TVs, ceding market to ARM originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 12 Oct 2011 13:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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ThinkFlood releases RedEye remote control app for Android, makes it even easier to sit around

Amar Toor — Thu, 18 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Nearly two years after releasing their Red Eye app for iOS users, the convenience enthusiasts over at ThinkFlood have now brought the universal remote control to the Android community, as well. The app, which was released in beta a few months ago, allows users to remotely control their non-networked home theater, lighting and air conditioning systems from the comfort of their tablets, laptops or smartphones. Version 2.7.0 also brings plenty of customizable graphics and layouts, for those looking to add a more personal touch to their lives of leisure. Compatible with any device running Android 1.6 or later (including tablets running Honeycomb), the app features a built-in TV program guide that can be used with any display, but in order to take advantage of its other home theater controls, you'll have to purchase networked ThinkFlood hardware products like RedEye or RedEye Pro (it's not compatible with RedEye mini). If you're interested in downloading the tool for free, check out the source links below, or click past the break for more details, in the full PR.

Continue reading ThinkFlood releases RedEye remote control app for Android, makes it even easier to sit around

ThinkFlood releases RedEye remote control app for Android, makes it even easier to sit around originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 18 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Minuscule PicoHD5.1 media player looks like a card reader, acts like a media streamer

Darren Murph — Wed, 20 Apr 2011 12:21:00 EST

What if your media streamer was as small as your media card reader? What if your list of "what ifs" shrunk by one this evening? And what if, by chance, said media streamer shipped with a remote nearly double the size of the product itself? We'll confess, it'd be a weird, weird situation, but it's one that you can actually experience for yourself if you're cool with handing over £49.99 ($82). The bantam PicoHD5.1 packs a lot of oomph into a pocket-sized device; on one side, there's room for a USB hard drive, thumb drive or SD card. On the reverse, you'll find HDMI / component outputs capable of piping whatever media you just plugged in onto your television or monitor. There's even support for 5.1 channel surround sound, and we're told that it's encased in aluminum -- you know, for those inevitable bumps and bruises. Is the "smallest HD multichannel media player" truly as spectacular as it sounds? Hard to say from afar, but hey, that's what 60 day money-back guarantees are for... right?

Minuscule PicoHD5.1 media player looks like a card reader, acts like a media streamer originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 20 Apr 2011 12:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Cirago launches CMC3200 media player, NUS2000 USB network storage link

Darren Murph — Wed, 26 Jan 2011 07:48:00 EST

The media streamer waters are awfully crowded, but Cirago's paying no mind to that. The company has this month introduced its new CMC3200 media player, hailed as the only 1080p system to offer 2TB of built-in storage, a WiFi adapter and a full year of PlayOn goodness. It's priced at $299.99 with the hard drive included, and it'll sport all of the basic functions already found on the 500GB and 1TB CiragoTV Platinum devices. In related news, the outfit's also dishing out its NUS2000 Link+ adapter, which provides remote access capabilities to up to four USB-connected storage devices. It's a compact device that's obviously set to rival Pogoplug's stable of NAS enablers, boasting a $100 price point and a foursome of USB 2.0 sockets. Moving on, Cirago's also announcing that its NUS1000 USB Network Storage Link features remote access, so there goes your excuse to upgrade. Hit the source link for the whole schpeel.

Continue reading Cirago launches CMC3200 media player, NUS2000 USB network storage link

Cirago launches CMC3200 media player, NUS2000 USB network storage link originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 26 Jan 2011 07:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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How would you change the second-generation Apple TV?

Darren Murph — Fri, 10 Dec 2010 22:36:00 EST

No one said that hobbies were easy to throw away, and it's pretty clear that the Apple TV still holds a dear piece of Cupertino's heart. In fact, we'd argue that the box's streaming abilities now tie into Apple's overall mission more than ever before, and with iOS 4.2.1 for the iPad (and the accompanying introduction of AirPlay), it's feeling less like an afterthought and more like a focal point. That said, we're curious to know if early adopters feel satisfied by their $99 box. Have you found it to function as-advertised? Still fuming over those output and / or color issues? If you were given the keys to the design kingdom, how would you turn the Apple TV into your perfect media streamer? Ditch the iTunes integration? Offer access to more content portals? Paint it pink and line it with LEDs? It only costs $0.02 to play, and the deposit slot's just below.

How would you change the second-generation Apple TV? originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 10 Dec 2010 22:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ask Engadget: best alternative to a cable company-issued set-top box?

Darren Murph — Thu, 02 Dec 2010 22:12:00 EST

We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget question is coming to us from Ozair, who is no longer down with forking out monthly for a subpar DVR experience. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com.

"With the unveiling of (pricey) Google TV, what are the other, cheaper alternatives to setting up HDTV via a cable box rather than renting out Optimum / Cablevision's outdated and laggy set-top box? TiVo? Any other standalone DVRs? Something I'm not considering?"

For those of you who've purchased a standalone DVR + CableCARD setup (or possibly even an HTPC + CableCARD setup), how are you enjoying it? Let this fellow know your optimal arrangement down in comments below -- make it quick, it's not like he can afford to miss this year's burning of the Yule Log in HD.

Ask Engadget: best alternative to a cable company-issued set-top box? originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 02 Dec 2010 22:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Cabasse's high-fashion L'Ocean speakers rock the catwalk, your wallet

Darren Murph — Tue, 30 Nov 2010 08:46:00 EST

Those operating sans a keen sense of style would probably take half a glance at Cabasse's L'Océan speakers (shown here on the right) and assume that they're one in the same with the company's La Sphére. Sure enough, the former also falls into the outfit's Artis line of speakers, but there's a slightly different combination of angles going on beneath the orb. The boutique audio firm has just revealed these three-way coaxial drive units, and they're purportedly capable of hitting 117dB without a hint of distortion. Of course, they weigh 176 pounds and stand just under four feet high, and considering the 2,250 total watts of digital amplification, we'd say they're probably built for a TMZ-certified house party. The company's gearing up to launch these in Q2 2011, but with a €80,000 ($105,900) list price, we're assuming it'll take a little more than seven month to save up for a set.

Cabasse's high-fashion L'Ocean speakers rock the catwalk, your wallet originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 30 Nov 2010 08:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Pop-up MicroLite turns your janky remote into a well-lit, even jankier remote (video)

Darren Murph — Tue, 23 Nov 2010 07:06:00 EST

"I think everyone in the known world will want them!" That's a potent, soul-stirring quite from Honolulu's own Becky Gray, and her emotions tend to mimic our own. We mean, who wouldn't want a pop-up MicroLite dongle affixed to the bottom of their remote? For a limited time of indefinite nature, free-spending consumers can actually get not one, not two, but three of these miracle workers for the tidy sum of just $19.99*, enabling them to light up a full trio of cut-rate remotes. Better still, you can use two of 'em to illuminate the keyboard of your shiny new 13-inch MacBook Air -- you know, because Apple decided this solution was better than its own integrated one. There's an unrealistic video demonstration embedded just past the break, and it's just a Billy Mays (rest his soul) short of awesomeness. Order now!

*Along with a likely laughable shipping and processing fee, of course.

Continue reading Pop-up MicroLite turns your janky remote into a well-lit, even jankier remote (video)

Pop-up MicroLite turns your janky remote into a well-lit, even jankier remote (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 23 Nov 2010 07:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Android and BlackBerry remote viewing / scheduling apps hit for Monsoon Vulkano

Darren Murph — Mon, 08 Nov 2010 10:18:00 EST

Forgotten about Monsoon's darkhorse-of-a-DVR? Surely not! Particularly if you're a BlackBerry or Android user. Monsoon's do-it-all STB has just received a pair of free applications for two of the largest mobile operating systems on the market, with both BlackBerry and Android users soon able to both schedule recordings and watch live / recorded television from afar. According to the company, the apps enable users to "enjoy all the Vulkano features including integrated DVR, web video, place shifting, Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) streaming and Mobile Video Recording from anywhere," which sounds dangerously hopeful if we're being frank. But hey, if mobile access was keeping you from making the plunge, you'll need to scrounge up another excuse now. A good problem to have, you know?

Continue reading Android and BlackBerry remote viewing / scheduling apps hit for Monsoon Vulkano

Android and BlackBerry remote viewing / scheduling apps hit for Monsoon Vulkano originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 08 Nov 2010 10:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Apple TV (2010) first look / hands-on! (updated with video)

Joshua Topolsky — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 14:37:00 EST

So we had a chance to spend a little time with the new and improved (and dirt cheap) Apple TV, and we like what we see. The streaming was speedy and extremely clear during our demo, and the overall speed of the interface seemed really solid. We also learned that the box is indeed 720p (just as we'd reported earlier). Apple told us that they felt that using 720p allowed them to strike a balance between quality and bandwidth. We're guessing most people won't complain if the service works as advertised. Take a look at a few of the pics below, and we're going to go back for a deeper look!

Gallery: Apple TV (2010) hands-on

Continue reading Apple TV (2010) first look / hands-on! (updated with video)

Apple TV (2010) first look / hands-on! (updated with video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 01 Sep 2010 14:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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With Imation Link 5112 WUSB A/V streamer, KerliGirl13 can finally have her own TV show

Joseph L. Flatley — Sat, 28 Aug 2010 11:15:00 EST

Unlike lots of other media streaming devices we've seen, this one is pretty straightforward: the USB dongle plugs into your PC or Mac, the receiver plugs into your TV's HDMI input, and what you sees and hears (on your computer) is what you gets (on the TV). The Wireless USB connection will stream video up to 720p and still images up to 1080p, as well as stereo sound. Available now from Amazon and whatnot for $150. PR after the break.

Continue reading With Imation Link 5112 WUSB A/V streamer, KerliGirl13 can finally have her own TV show

With Imation Link 5112 WUSB A/V streamer, KerliGirl13 can finally have her own TV show originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 28 Aug 2010 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Kaleidescape outs M300 and M500 Blu-ray players, copiers

Laura June — Tue, 11 May 2010 10:51:00 EST

Kaleidescape's just announced another line of high end home entertainment products -- this time it's the M300 and M500 Blu-ray players. The M500 also boasts Blu-ray copying abilities, too -- allowing you to import Blu-rays, DVDs and CDs onto your server at home. In an interesting decision, Kaleidescape will require that the physical Blu-ray disc be present for playback from the server -- which, you may be thinking, rather defeats the purpose, doesn't it? Pretty much. Thankfully, Kaleidescape's got a disc loader in the works which will allow you to keep a "large number" of discs ready in the system for faster loading. The loader itself isn't expected to be ready for retail until the first half of next year, but you can grab the M300 and the M500 beginning May 18th, with the M300 running $2,495 and the M500 at $3,995. The full press release follows.

Continue reading Kaleidescape outs M300 and M500 Blu-ray players, copiers

Kaleidescape outs M300 and M500 Blu-ray players, copiers originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 11 May 2010 10:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sony Dash spotted on shelf at Best Buy a few days early

Laura June — Sat, 24 Apr 2010 21:01:00 EST

Now, what do you know about that? Our very own Chris Ziegler stopped into Best Buy (undoubtedly right after leaving CB2) and spotted something we didn't expect to see just yet... the Sony Dash. That's right, the Dash - which is available for pre-order but wasn't supposed to hit retail until April 29th -- is already on the shelf. Now, there was only one unit available and it was just squeezed in between some other wares, so we're not sure if it was put out by accident or what, but if you're really dying to get your hands on one a few days early, hitting up your local BB might turn up something. Let us know in the comments if you nab one!

Update: Chris reported back to us to say that when he tried to purchase it, it came up with a price of $999 and a code of "DO NOT SELL." He was also told to come back next Friday if he wanted to purchase it.

Sony Dash spotted on shelf at Best Buy a few days early originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 24 Apr 2010 21:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Hanshin Icreon HUWB-3000Kit connects your PC to TV sans wires

Darren Murph — Fri, 16 Apr 2010 09:44:00 EST

Not that we haven't seen UWB-based options before that connect your PC to TV without any cabling in between, but we've yet to actually come across one that we can love wholeheartedly. Hanshin just might have the first, as its Icreon HUWB-3000Kit supports both video and audio transmissions. Setup is rather simple: simply plug the USB dongle into your laptop or desktop, and connect the transceiver box via HDMI to your HDTV. Utilizing an ultra-wideband connection, it'll pipe audio and video wirelessly to your set, with support for 1080p resolutions to boot. There's no Mac support just yet, and a price has yet to be disclosed -- but hey, it's coming, and that's good enough. Er... we'll just keep telling ourselves that.

Hanshin Icreon HUWB-3000Kit connects your PC to TV sans wires originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 16 Apr 2010 09:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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SweetSpotter keeps your music coming at the right angle, regardless of flailing

Darren Murph — Fri, 26 Mar 2010 00:34:00 EST

For years now, home theater and / or entertainment rigs have been built so that your sofa, recliner or aged bar stool was right in the sweet spot when it came to audio distribution. In short, you built your system around your seating arrangement. With the introduction of Nintendo's Wii, Sony's PlayStation Move and Microsoft's Project Natal, folks aren't staying put in the same place as often, and that -- friends -- has created a problem in search of a solution. The fine gurus over at TU Dresden believe that they have the answer, and even if it fails miserably (highly doubtful, mind you), who could really harsh on a product called the SweetSpotter? The software is designed to work in conjunction with your webcam (or console camera, in theory), and as the sensor tracks your movement in real time, the code "adaptively adjusts the sweet spot of your stereo play back system to your current listening position." In short, it results in "correct stereo phantom source localization independent of your listening position," and frankly, it just might change your life. The code itself can be downloaded for free down in the source link (it's open source, so pass it along while you're at it), and if you end up creating a plug-in to use this in your favorite gaming scenario, be sure to drop us a line about it.

SweetSpotter keeps your music coming at the right angle, regardless of flailing originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 26 Mar 2010 00:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Wal-Mart buying Vudu streaming movie service? (update: yes!)

Joseph L. Flatley — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 17:12:00 EST

Wal-Mart often finds itself on these pages not only for its deals but for the fair amount of comedy its stores provide us, but this next item could be big. According to The New York Times, the company has indeed agreed to purchase Vudu -- giving it a leg up on digital distribution and helping to brace against a declining market for DVDs. Details are scarce, but apparently the two companies have been informing Hollywood studios and TV manufacturers about the plan all day -- so an official announcement can't be too far off. Let's just hope this goes a little better than the Wal-Mart MP3 sales have, eh?

Update: It's official, and the full press release is after the break. Walmart will be acquiring Vudu, and the deal is expected to close "within the next few weeks." We are told that Vudu will "continue developing entertainment and information delivery solutions such as Vudu Apps," but outside of that, few details (including a purchase price) are being made available.

Continue reading Wal-Mart buying Vudu streaming movie service? (update: yes!)

Wal-Mart buying Vudu streaming movie service? (update: yes!) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 22 Feb 2010 17:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Intel's CE 3100 finally gets a shipping partner in Yuixx media player

Darren Murph — Tue, 05 Jan 2010 16:24:00 EST

Intel's CE 3100 multimedia processor has been hanging out at trade floor shows for months upon months now, but at long last the slab has a partner product that'll be shipping to general consumers. Conceptronics' Yuixx HD media player has just reached the point in its life where shipment is imminent, and in speaking with the firm, we learned that'll hit the streets of Amsterdam at the end of this month. The rest of Europe is expected to see it in February, while Americans will have to wait until it hits the FCC in March before getting any closer. Unlike some other set-top boxes on the market now, this one relies heavily on its own Widget Channel to bring web-based content to televisions, and pumping out 1080p material ain't no thang for it. Head on past the break for the full release and a promo video, and look for a little hands-on action as the CES show floor opens.

Gallery: Intel's CE 3100 finally gets a shipping partner in Yuixx media player

Continue reading Intel's CE 3100 finally gets a shipping partner in Yuixx media player

Intel's CE 3100 finally gets a shipping partner in Yuixx media player originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 05 Jan 2010 16:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Trade show shocker: Sling to out some new gear at CES

Laura June — Wed, 30 Dec 2009 21:41:00 EST

Okay, you're not surprised that some companies are going to have new gear at CES, are you? Well, we''re hearing that Sling -- a company that's not had much news this year beyond the release of its iPhone app -- will definitely unleash some new stuff in Las Vegas, including "WiFi television, ultra-slim Slingboxes, and a next-generation touch screen device." Now, we don't want to get everyone overly excited this early in the day, but those all definitely sound like upgrades to us. We really don't know if Sling will let slip any more specific info between now and CES, but as you know, we'll be In Vegas when it all goes down, so sit back and be patient. It won't be long, now.

Trade show shocker: Sling to out some new gear at CES originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 30 Dec 2009 21:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Wall of Sound is loud, prohibitively expensive, and somewhat defeats the purpose

Joseph L. Flatley — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 18:14:00 EST

You know the problem with most iPod docks? They're too compact, too convenient. Luckily the wild men at Brothers in Drottninggatan, Stockholm, have the cure to tinny sounds that come in small packages. Hopefully a nod to the sound generated by "the bruddas" from Forest Hills, Queens (and not that of a certain homicidal record producer), the Wall of Sound is a handcrafted, 4 x 3 foot, 125 watt tube amplified behemoth. Intrigued? We bet you are. Sadly, the company has sold out of its first run, but you'll need time to save up your lunch money for one of these anyways: the asking price is $4,495 (plus shipping). Hit that read link to get started.

Continue reading Wall of Sound is loud, prohibitively expensive, and somewhat defeats the purpose

Filed under: Home Entertainment

Wall of Sound is loud, prohibitively expensive, and somewhat defeats the purpose originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 02 Nov 2009 18:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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MTube Android MID streams media to the TV and back via touchscreen (video)

Joseph L. Flatley — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 17:56:00 EST

MTube, known most famously in these parts for its diminutive, WiMAX-sportin' media player, seems to be putting some time and effort into Android as of late. While the MTube II hybrid Android / XP / tablet / netbook has certainly inspired its share of techno-lust, the Android MID hits us where it counts: in front of the television. The unholy union of a handheld and a multimedia controller, this guy lets you drag and drop video from the device to your TV, stream media to the TV or vice versa, and transfer files between multiple MTubes -- all this in addition to the core functionality of the OS. Details are still scant: although we know it's rocking an ARM Processor, a 7.6-inch 800 x 480 capacitive touchscreen OLED, and Android 1.6, there's no word on storage or memory, or even how the video is streamed (we think that WiFi might be a good guess). As it stands, the thing is most certainly not ready for prime time (as becomes painfully obvious when the system crashes at 1 minute 45 seconds), but as a taste of things to come we're definitely intrigued. Peep the video after the break to see for yourself.

Continue reading MTube Android MID streams media to the TV and back via touchscreen (video)

Filed under: Media streamers, Others

MTube Android MID streams media to the TV and back via touchscreen (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 28 Oct 2009 17:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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MTube Android MID streams media to the TV and back via touchscreen (video)

Joseph L. Flatley — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 17:56:00 EST

Continue reading MTube Android MID streams media to the TV and back via touchscreen (video)

Filed under: Home Entertainment, Portable Video

MTube Android MID streams media to the TV and back via touchscreen (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 28 Oct 2009 17:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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JVC joins the sub-$200 Blu-ray player game with ultrathin XV-BP11

Darren Murph — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 08:59:00 EST

Sub-$200 Blu-ray players certainly aren't new -- heck, some guys have been doing it since the year 2008 -- but you'll never catch us kvetching about a little more competition. JVC has today introduced (in the briefest way possible, might we add) its newest Blu-ray player just ten months after deciding to play the BD game here in the States. The ultrathin (and "now available") XV-BP11 should slide into just about any AV rack, bringing Blu-ray / DVD playback, AVCHD support, HDMI 1.3, a USB socket and compatibility with a slew of audio formats. Curiously enough, the outfit doesn't bother to mention if this thing is Profile 2.0, but we're guessing (read: hoping) that it wouldn't do something as ludicrous as charge two bills for a Profile 1.1 deck in late 2009. Then again, we've seen zanier things go down...

Update: Ouch -- this thing is only Profile 1.1. Dud. [Thanks, Aaron!]

Continue reading JVC joins the sub-$200 Blu-ray player game with ultrathin XV-BP11

Filed under: Blu-ray, Players, JVC

JVC joins the sub-$200 Blu-ray player game with ultrathin XV-BP11 originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 28 Oct 2009 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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JVC joins the sub-$200 Blu-ray player game with ultrathin XV-BP11

Darren Murph — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 08:59:00 EST

Continue reading JVC joins the sub-$200 Blu-ray player game with ultrathin XV-BP11

Filed under: Home Entertainment

JVC joins the sub-$200 Blu-ray player game with ultrathin XV-BP11 originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 28 Oct 2009 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rocketfish wireless whole home audio system cuts the cord on all your speakers

Darren Murph — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 12:53:00 EST

Anyone stumbling into a Best Buy looking for some sort of wireless speaker solution has probably been ushered over to the Rocketfish section, but up until now, only a few devices have been available. Now, the Best Buy staple is introducing an all-encompassing system that aims to cut the (speaker) cable to all of your speakers. The wireless whole home audio system, which is obviously only available at the yellow-tagged retailer, is comprised of a Wireless Amplified Audio Receiver, a Wireless Sender / Receiver, a Wireless Outdoor Speaker and a Wireless HD Audio Starter Kit, which includes both a sender and receiver. The whole rig is designed to work with standard connections for speaker line and line level inputs, so most any speaker assortment should play nice. All told, the devices combined can send up to five sources to nine receivers throughout the home, but not surprisingly, there's no mention made of the presumably lofty price tag.

Filed under: Media streamers, Other hardware

Rocketfish wireless whole home audio system cuts the cord on all your speakers originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 23 Oct 2009 12:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rocketfish wireless whole home audio system cuts the cord on all your speakers

Darren Murph — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 12:53:00 EST

Filed under: Home Entertainment, Wireless

Rocketfish wireless whole home audio system cuts the cord on all your speakers originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 23 Oct 2009 12:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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HAVA media streamer for iPhone available now

Joseph L. Flatley — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 11:55:00 EST

Just a quick note to all you HAVA Player enthusiasts: the iPhone app that Monsoon announced at CES is finally ready for public consumption. Available from the App Store (of all places), the software lets HAVA owners control it all remotely -- including cable, satellite, and DVR. What's more, you can stream your recorded programming right onto the handset for all those times when you can't stand to be apart from Jim Cramer (few and far between, we know). Supports iPhone and iPod touch (with OS 2.2.1 or higher) and goes for $9.99. PR after the break.

Continue reading HAVA media streamer for iPhone available now

Filed under: Cellphones, Home Entertainment

HAVA media streamer for iPhone available now originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 15 Oct 2009 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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