Engadget http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Windows 8's Metro version of IE 10 may keep Flash for edge cases]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/23/windows-8-metro-version-of-ie-10-may-keep-flash/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/23/windows-8-metro-version-of-ie-10-may-keep-flash/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/23/windows-8-metro-version-of-ie-10-may-keep-flash/#comments Image

Microsoft triggered some weeping and gnashing of teeth with its decision to keep Flash out of the Metro environment's Internet Explorer 10 browser in favor of HTML5, and it looks like that outpouring of grief has produced a compromise -- albeit with a catch. Leaks of the upcoming Windows 8 Release Preview purport to show Flash running on IE10 in the new interface, but only for certain popular sites (such as Disney's) that can be trusted with Flash and don't have an easy HTML5 fallback. The company hasn't confirmed the change, but it's thought that Microsoft has skipped the familiar plugin route in favor of just coding Flash support for a few sites at a low level. If that's what we see when the Release Preview goes public in June, it could serve as a bridge for parents worried their kids will miss out on Where's My Water? games while preserving a browser that's overall leaner, meaner and safer. We wouldn't hold out much hope for Windows 8 RT tablets running ARM chips, though, knowing that backwards compatibility doesn't exist and that Adobe might not be keen to revive Flash-on-ARM support it's trying to wind down.

Windows 8's Metro version of IE 10 may keep Flash for edge cases originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 23 May 2012 19:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adobeadobe flashAdobeFlashdesktopdesktopsdisneyflashhtml 5Html5ieie 10Ie10internet explorerinternet explorer 10InternetExplorerInternetExplorer10laptoplaptopsmetromicrosoftmicrosoft internet explorermicrosoft internet explorer 10microsoft windows 8MicrosoftInternetExplorerMicrosoftInternetExplorer10MicrosoftWindows8pluginsoftwaretablettablet pctablet pcsTabletPcTabletPcstabletswindows 8Windows 8 Release PreviewWindows8Windows8ReleasePreviewWed, 23 May 2012 19:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Eight floppy drives recreate the theme from Game of Thrones, stake claim to the seven Kingdoms]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/17/eight-floppy-drives-recreate-the-theme-from-game-of-thrones/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/17/eight-floppy-drives-recreate-the-theme-from-game-of-thrones/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/17/eight-floppy-drives-recreate-the-theme-from-game-of-thrones/#comments Eight floppy drives recreate the theme from Game of Thrones, stake claim to the seven Kingdoms

Should the robots ever form an alliance and turn against us, all we need to do is call on people like Anand Jin to save us. Why? Because it's folk of his ilk that are the pied pipers of the machine world. We've seen disk drives coerced into recreating Daft Punk, and Bo-Rhap extorted from an Atari 800XL. Now, we can watch the aforementioned Anand eke the theme from Game of Thrones out of eight floppy drives. There's more info on his YouTube channel if you're curious to know the hows and whys. Much as we enjoy the performance, hearing the theme again just brings up bad memories of last week's ending.

Continue reading Eight floppy drives recreate the theme from Game of Thrones, stake claim to the seven Kingdoms

Eight floppy drives recreate the theme from Game of Thrones, stake claim to the seven Kingdoms originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 17 May 2012 19:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>computer musicComputerMusicdisk driveDiskDrivedisneyfloppy drivefloppy drivesFloppyDriveFloppyDrivesgame of thronesgame of thrones themeGameOfThronesGameOfThronesThememidimusicrobot apocalypseRobotApocalypsethemeThu, 17 May 2012 19:08:00 EST<![CDATA[WatchESPN finally streams to Comcast customers, but not on Android]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/08/watchespn-comcast/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/08/watchespn-comcast/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/08/watchespn-comcast/#comments WatchESPN finally streams to Comcast customers, but not on Android

The short list of TV and internet providers that support ESPN's TV Everywhere play, WatchESPN, just grew by one with the addition of Comcast to a list that already included Time Warner, Bright House and Verizon. Part of a deal reached back in January, ESPN has managed to tie its live streaming service in with Comcast's Xfinity TV protocols, similar to the adjustments made by HBO to open up HBO Go streaming on the Xbox 360. One downside however is that for the moment Comcast customer access is restricted to the website (XfinityTV.com access is coming soon) and iPad / iPhone apps (an update is required first). The Android app that launched a year ago is, for the moment, not supported, although access there is promised "in the coming months." As we heard in January this just the beginning, as similar Watch services will be rolling out for Disney Channel, DisneyXD and Disney Junior as part of the mouse company's TV+ program. For now those live feeds of ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU and ESPN3.com (Buzzer Beater and Goal Line are available in their respective seasons) will have to do however, as the channels and cable services try to add more features and access to keep subscribers happy, or at least still paying, whether they're at home or away.

Continue reading WatchESPN finally streams to Comcast customers, but not on Android

WatchESPN finally streams to Comcast customers, but not on Android originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 08 May 2012 23:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abcandroidappleauthenticationcable tvCableTvcomcastdisneyespnhdpostcrossiosipadiphonemobilepostcrosspay tvPayTvstreamingtv everywhereTvEverywhereupdatewatch espnWatchEspnxfinity tvXfinityTvTue, 08 May 2012 23:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Disney Research's Touché system detects your touch on most things, even water (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/07/disney-research-touche-touch-system/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/07/disney-research-touche-touch-system/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/07/disney-research-touche-touch-system/#comments

Disney Research has announced some new touch interface technology that add extra gesture functionality to existing touchscreens and more exotic items like doorknobs and even the water's surface. Touché works by sensing capacitive signals across a range of frequencies -- whereas typical systems only pick up signal at a single frequency. This Swept Frequency Capacitive Sensing (SFCS) can recognize exactly how we interact with an object or surface, not limited to surface area differences. According to Disney Research, this could include embedding different commands for when a user pinches or grasps a hooked-up object. One proof of concept door knob allows it to be locked or display a "be right back" sign depending on exactly how it's handled. Get the full explanation -- and see some watery fingertip detection -- right after the break.

Continue reading Disney Research's Touché system detects your touch on most things, even water (video)

Disney Research's Touché system detects your touch on most things, even water (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 07 May 2012 05:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>disneydisney researchDisneyResearchmultiple frequencyMultipleFrequencySFCSSwept Frequency Capacitive SensingSweptFrequencyCapacitiveSensingtouchTouch DetectionTouchDetectiontouchscreenvideoMon, 07 May 2012 05:29:00 EST<![CDATA[SEC investigating movie studios' dealings with China]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/24/sec-investigating-movie-studios-dealings-with-china/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/24/sec-investigating-movie-studios-dealings-with-china/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/24/sec-investigating-movie-studios-dealings-with-china/#comments SEC investigating movie studios' dealing with China

Reuters is reporting that regulators have begun a probe of American movie studios and their dealings with Chinese officials. The Security and Exchange Commission has sent letters to at least five companies, including 20th Century Fox, Disney and DreamWorks Animation requesting information about "potential[ly] inappropriate payments" made to members of the Chinese government. The market in the pseudo-Communist nation is seen as one with huge potential for US-made films, but the state-owned China Film Group has placed strict limits on foreign cinema. However, in February, the group agreed to loosen restrictions and exempt up to 14 IMAX or 3D films a year (along with their 2D counterparts) from the 20 movie cap on international media. Around the same time, DreamWorks announced it would be building a production studio in Shanghai with participation from several large Chinese media companies. Even Disney struck a deal that will see the next Iron Man title co-produced by China's DMG Entertainment. The sudden shift in tone must have raised some eyebrows with watchdogs, and the SEC has responded by hitting up the studios for info over the last few months. Obviously, we'll be keeping an eye on this to see how it develops.

SEC investigating movie studios' dealings with China originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 24 Apr 2012 16:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20th century fox20thCenturyFoxchinaChina Film GroupChinaFilmGroupdisneydreamworksDreamworks AnimationDreamworksAnimationgovernmenthdpostcrossinvestigationRegulatorssecSecurities and Exchange CommissionSecuritiesAndExchangeCommissionTue, 24 Apr 2012 16:53:00 EST<![CDATA[Switched On: Tablets are toys. No, really.]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/25/tablets-are-toys-no-really/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/25/tablets-are-toys-no-really/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/25/tablets-are-toys-no-really/#commentsEach week Ross Rubin contributes Switched On, a column about consumer technology.
Image
Ever since the tablet market exploded, we've seen a wide range of designs find both success and failure. But most of the tablets on the market have something in common: they are primarily designed for adults or at least children old enough to be responsible for a fragile device. Particularly for the popular iPad, we have seen a number of specialized cases design to protect the tablet for use with young ones. But a small cadre of tablets aimed specifically at kids -- including preschoolers -- begs several questions. Are tablets good tools for kids? Is there value in optimizing them for kids? And if so, how should they be optimized?

Continue reading Switched On: Tablets are toys. No, really.

Switched On: Tablets are toys. No, really. originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 25 Mar 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>childrenchildrens tabletsChildrensTabletsdiscovery bayDiscoveryBaydisneyiPadkidsmattelNabioregon scientificOregonScientificsmartphonesswitched onswitchedontabletVinciSun, 25 Mar 2012 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Epic Mickey 2 controllers invoke the power of the brush, are made for you and me]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/24/epic-mickey-2-controllers-invoke-the-power-of-the-brush-are-mad/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/24/epic-mickey-2-controllers-invoke-the-power-of-the-brush-are-mad/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/24/epic-mickey-2-controllers-invoke-the-power-of-the-brush-are-mad/#comments ImageDo you like your M-I-C-K-E-Y M-O-U-S-E with a side of eXtreme? So do the developers at Junction Point, which is why a sequel to the mouse's first Epic is on its way. But the impending release of that title's not all grown-up Mouseketeers-cum-gamers have to look forward to, as two special WiiMote peripherals are also apparently on deck. Shown off at a preview event for Epic Mickey 2, the prototype accessories are made to mimic in-game "weapons," like Oswald's controller and Mickey's paintbrush. The designs aren't final, but as you'll see in the source below, they should make for an excellent addition to any diehard's Disneyana collection.

Epic Mickey 2 controllers invoke the power of the brush, are made for you and me originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 24 Mar 2012 06:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>controllersDisneyEpic Mickey 2EpicMickey2gamingMickey MouseMickeyMouseprototypeprototypesvideo gamevideo gamesVideoGameVideoGamesWiiWiiMoteSat, 24 Mar 2012 06:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Starz Play movies disappear from Netflix streaming this week]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/27/netflix-starz-play-movies-pulled-march-1/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/27/netflix-starz-play-movies-pulled-march-1/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/27/netflix-starz-play-movies-pulled-march-1/#comments A little more than three years after arriving on Netflix's Watch Instantly streaming service, Starz is packing up its online package of movies and original TV shows and heading home at the end of this month. While the deal brought in high profile movies from Disney and Sony (not to mention shows like Spartacus and Boss), it's also caused problems with the availability of certain movies / features on the Xbox 360, a renegotiation of terms between Starz and Disney followed by the removal of Sony's flicks from the service last year. Finally Starz reportedly asked Netflix to change its pricing strategy to a tiered one, but the companies couldn't agree and renewal negotiations ended September 1st of last year. Netflix is trying to fill the gap with more deals directly with studios and offering its own original shows, while the selection of kid-friendly movies will be supplemented by a Dreamworks arrangement that kicks off in 2013.

That means subscribers have until midweek to enjoy Toy Story 3, Tangled or about 800 (mostly somewhat lesser-known) other movies that may be kicking around in their queues. While Netflix breaks out the Starz Play titles on its site, TVandMoviesNOW has put together a list of all of them, sortable by release date, rating, genre and other items including the 50 or so that are viewable on Amazon's Prime streaming service. We probably won't dive in too deeply since the movies lack HD res and surround sound, but if you haven't seen Party Down yet then this is the time.

Starz Play movies disappear from Netflix streaming this week originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 27 Feb 2012 08:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>disneyhdpostmininetflixsony picturesSonyPicturesstarzstarz playStarzPlaystreamingwatch instantlyWatchInstantlyMon, 27 Feb 2012 08:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Master Moves Mickey hands-on: challenges Bieber and TOSY to dance-off (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/10/master-moves-mickey-hands-on-challenges-bieber-and-tosy-to-danc/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/10/master-moves-mickey-hands-on-challenges-bieber-and-tosy-to-danc/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/10/master-moves-mickey-hands-on-challenges-bieber-and-tosy-to-danc/#comments Master Moves MickeyBeethoven's Fifth or Michelangelo's Pietà it's not but, while Master Moves Mickey can't stand as a cornerstone of civilization, it can certainly throw down on the dance floor. The b-boy bot has a speaker hidden under its garb that kicks out the jams while this mechanical mouse break dances its little Disney trademarked heart out. He's got 15 different signature moves, carefully choreographed to eight different built-in tunes and loads of personality thanks to a collection of self-depreciating one-liners ready in case he loses his balance. And all this legendary performer needs to keep earning his urban cred is a six AA batteries, oh, and your money -- $70 of it to be specific. Master Moves Mickey should be hitting shelves in August. Check out the video after the break.

Edgar Alvarez contributed to this report.

Continue reading Master Moves Mickey hands-on: challenges Bieber and TOSY to dance-off (video)

Master Moves Mickey hands-on: challenges Bieber and TOSY to dance-off (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 14:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dancing robotDancingRobotdisneyfisher priceFisherPricehands-onmaster moves mickeyMasterMovesMickeymattelmickey mouseMickeyMouserobottoy fairtoy fair 2012ToyFairToyFair2012videoFri, 10 Feb 2012 14:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Disney considering 28-day rental window, because 'On Stranger Tides' was that good]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/08/disney-28-day-window/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/08/disney-28-day-window/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/08/disney-28-day-window/#comments That sound you can hear is the studios dashing around as they look for a new scapegoat. Disney's got Redbox and Netflix in its sights as it declares plans to impose a 28-day window before it'll make its titles available for rental. Despite conceding that the studio hadn't seen any impact on overall DVD sales, CEO Bob Iger pointed to a 16 percent drop in quarterly revenue compared to 2010 as the motivation. It's also collecting splinters in its backside as it watches to see how well digital locker service UltraViolet fares with consumers before committing to join the program. Of course, given the legitimacy of First Sale Doctrine, it's possible Redbox will do as its done with Warner titles and just buy 'em at retail -- as long as it can cover its costs as it does so.

Disney considering 28-day rental window, because 'On Stranger Tides' was that good originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 18:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>28-Day56-dayBob IgerBobIgerBusinessConference CallConferenceCallDisneyFirst Sale DoctrineFirstSaleDoctrinehdpostminiNetflixRedboxRental WindowRentalWindowWed, 08 Feb 2012 18:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Disney Mobile on DoCoMo brand launches with two new Android phones in Japan]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/31/disney-mobile-on-docomo-brand-launches-with-two-new-android-phon/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/31/disney-mobile-on-docomo-brand-launches-with-two-new-android-phon/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/31/disney-mobile-on-docomo-brand-launches-with-two-new-android-phon/#comments It appears Disney's mobile efforts in Japan are going pretty well, and with the help of carrier NTT DoCoMo they're expanding under the joint "Disney Mobile on DoCoMo" brand name. The partnership is kicking off with two new Android-powered handsets launching over the next couple of months that pack in access to exclusive content from Disney like full-length animations, games, wallpapers and more. First up is the F-08D (left), a "luxury smartphone" that features silhouettes of Mickey and Minnie Mouse, a 4.3-inch HD (720x1280) LCD display, dual cameras and 1.2Ghz dual-core OMAP4430 CPU available in pink or white next month with preorders opening up February 17th. Next up is the P-05D (right), which has a slim 7.8mm thick frame, rear camera and 4.3-inch 540x960 res OLED screen all powered by a dual-core 1Ghz CPU that will launch at some point in March. Check out the press releases after the break for a few more details on each of these Japan-only cellphones, or hit the source link for even more specs -- no word yet on pricetags or which version of Android these will end up launching with.

Continue reading Disney Mobile on DoCoMo brand launches with two new Android phones in Japan

Disney Mobile on DoCoMo brand launches with two new Android phones in Japan originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 23:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androiddisneydisney mobiledisney mobile on docomoDisneyMobileDisneyMobileOnDocomodocomodual coreDualCoref-08dhdjapanmickey mouseMickeyMouseminnie mouseMinnieMousemobilepostminintt docomoNttDocomooledomap 4430Omap4430p-05dtiTue, 31 Jan 2012 23:47:00 EST<![CDATA[Netflix close to signing deals with Sony, Disney, Paramount and ITV, to debut in the UK soon? (update: pricing pegged at £5.99/month, website live)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/08/netflix-close-to-signing-deals-with-sony-disney-paramount-and/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/08/netflix-close-to-signing-deals-with-sony-disney-paramount-and/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/08/netflix-close-to-signing-deals-with-sony-disney-paramount-and/#comments Those with a PS3 in the United Kingdom might have gotten a sneak peek at a placeholder, but according to The Guardian, apparently its proper "early 2012" launch isn't far off. Purportedly the video streaming service is close to signing rights to content from Sony, Disney and Paramount, which'll join existing agreements with Lionsgate, Miramax and MGM. But it isn't just studios, as Channel 4 and ITV are supposedly close to joining the UK bash as-well. If everything goes to plan, most of the British Isles will be treated to an ad campaign that'll reveal all next week. Game on, Lovefilm.

Update: Well, it looks like we don't have to wait until next week for all of those details after all. Some Google ads have now started appearing in searches for Netflix that peg the price at £5.99 per month (or about $9), and also confirm that the service is headed to the Wii and Xbox 360 in addition to the PS3. Unfortunately, that netflix.com/UK page isn't functional just yet.

Update 2: Looks like the UK website is live for many, confirming the Google ad pricing. Check it out after the break.

[Thanks, Chris, James]

Continue reading Netflix close to signing deals with Sony, Disney, Paramount and ITV, to debut in the UK soon? (update: pricing pegged at £5.99/month, website live)

Netflix close to signing deals with Sony, Disney, Paramount and ITV, to debut in the UK soon? (update: pricing pegged at £5.99/month, website live) originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 08 Jan 2012 16:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ad campaignAdCampaigndisneylaunchlionsgatelionsgate ukLionsgateUklovefilmnetflixnetflix ukNetflixUkparamountrumorsonyspeculationstreaming video serviceStreamingVideoServiceukunited kingdomUnitedKingdomSun, 08 Jan 2012 16:42:00 EST<![CDATA[Comcast, Disney TV deal opens up access on multiple screens, tightens VOD strings]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/04/comcast-disney-tv-deal-opens-up-access-on-multiple-screens-tig/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/04/comcast-disney-tv-deal-opens-up-access-on-multiple-screens-tig/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/04/comcast-disney-tv-deal-opens-up-access-on-multiple-screens-tig/#comments A renewal of the carriage agreement between Disney and Comcast has extended the cable company's "TV Everywhere" model, allowing it to offer customers access to "70 services" including all the ABC, Disney and ESPN channels you can name on their TVs, computers and mobile devices. Comcast's blog post notes this access extends both in and outside of the home, a major sticking point for most of the live TV streaming apps offered by cable and satellite companies (with the obvious exception of Dish Network and its Sling integration) so far. Other news mentioned in the press release (included after the break) is that the ABC video on-demand access on Comcast's cable boxes is fast-forward disabled -- no ad skipping. Other than the existing WatchESPN which Comcast customers will now have access to, there are also WatchDisneyChannel, WatchDisneyXD and WatchDisneyJunior services on the way, a part of disney's own multiscreen initiative called TV+. One other note is that for the first time the deal covers retransmission fees for ABC-owned local stations, which used to be free. There's no word on exactly how much money is changing hands as a result, but we'll probably be able to look at our cable bills in the future and see the effect -- hopefully being able to pull in the latest Grey's Anatomy episodes on the go is worth it.

Continue reading Comcast, Disney TV deal opens up access on multiple screens, tightens VOD strings

Comcast, Disney TV deal opens up access on multiple screens, tightens VOD strings originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 04 Jan 2012 14:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comcastdisneydisney channelDisneyChannelespnespn 3espn fullcourtespn gameplanEspn3EspnFullcourtEspnGameplanhdpostcrosslive streamingLiveStreamingminipostmobilemobilepostcrossstreamingtablettv everywhereTvEverywherevideo on demandVideoOnDemandvodwalt disneyWaltDisneywatch espnWatchEspnxfinityxfinity tvXfinityTvWed, 04 Jan 2012 14:50:00 EST<![CDATA[EZ-Robot releases build-your-own kit, realistic Cylons due any time now (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/12/ez-robot-releases-build-your-own-kit-realistic-cylons-due-any-t/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/12/ez-robot-releases-build-your-own-kit-realistic-cylons-due-any-t/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/12/ez-robot-releases-build-your-own-kit-realistic-cylons-due-any-t/#comments
DJ Sures' homemade Wall-E was the beginning of his project to bring personal robotics to the masses: thanks to his company, EZ-Robot. The startup sells kits that let you retrofit that Teddy Ruxpin doll in the garage into a fully-functioning killbot. $235 will buy you a wireless controller, ultrasonic distance sensor, wireless tracking camera, three standard servos, two continuous rotation servos, battery pack and software that'll let you control the bot without having to learn to code. The software also includes vision tracking (facial, motion and color), speech recognition and the whole thing will even integrate with your Roomba -- although we're not sure how far you'll get if you ask it for a sandwich.

Continue reading EZ-Robot releases build-your-own kit, realistic Cylons due any time now (video)

EZ-Robot releases build-your-own kit, realistic Cylons due any time now (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 12 Dec 2011 18:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CanadianDIsneyDJ SuresDjSuresEZ RobotEZ-RobotEzRobotPersonal RoboticsPersonalRoboticsRobopocalypseRobotRoboticsRoombavideoWall-EMon, 12 Dec 2011 18:17:00 EST<![CDATA[Disney films begin storming YouTube's magic video kingdom]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/23/disney-films-begin-storming-youtubes-magic-video-kingdom/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/23/disney-films-begin-storming-youtubes-magic-video-kingdom/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/23/disney-films-begin-storming-youtubes-magic-video-kingdom/#comments Looking for something fun to do with the family over the holiday weekend? Why not huddle up in front of the old laptop with some Pirates of the Caribbean? Or perhaps Alice in Wonderland and Pixar's Cars are more your speed? The Google-owned video streaming site announced today that movies from Walt Disney Studios have begun creeping their way into its rental selection. The selection of films is the first of hundreds from Disney, Pixar and DreamWorks.

Disney films begin storming YouTube's magic video kingdom originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 23 Nov 2011 14:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alice in wonderlandAliceInWonderlandcarsdisneygooglehdpostcrossmoviemovie rentalMovieRentalpirates of the caribbeanPiratesOfTheCaribbeanpixarrentalstreamingyoutubeWed, 23 Nov 2011 14:23:00 EST<![CDATA[NYT: Disney, YouTube strike new content partnership, will launch kid-friendly channel]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/07/nyt-disney-youtube-strike-new-content-partnership-will-launch/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/07/nyt-disney-youtube-strike-new-content-partnership-will-launch/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/07/nyt-disney-youtube-strike-new-content-partnership-will-launch/#comments
Disney is certainly no stranger to YouTube, but the company is looking to strengthen those ties today, with a new video partnership. According to the New York Times, Disney Interactive Media and YouTube have struck a deal that will bring original, kid-friendly content to a new co-branded online channel. Under the agreement, slated to be announced later today, the two parties will devote a combined $10 million to $15 million to video production, in the hopes of helping each other patch up some of their respective holes. From Disney's perspective, the deal could help attract more viewers, while funneling more users to its soon-to-be revamped website, which has seen a marked traffic decline in recent months. YouTube, meanwhile, could use the deal to help boost its reputation among parents, many of whom may have reservations about letting their youngsters loose on a site rife with unwholesome content. It may also signal a move toward those regularly scheduled channels we've been hearing so much about. We're still awaiting official confirmation on this, but we'll update this post as soon as we get it.

NYT: Disney, YouTube strike new content partnership, will launch kid-friendly channel originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 07 Nov 2011 12:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>agreementchannelchildrencontentdealdisneydisney interactivedisney interactive mediaDisneyInteractiveDisneyInteractiveMediadistributiongooglehdpostminikidspartnershipTVvideowebyoutubeMon, 07 Nov 2011 12:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Amazon, Netflix ink licensing deals with ABC, add new content for you to munch on]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/01/amazon-netflix-ink-licensing-deals-with-abc-add-new-content-fo/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/01/amazon-netflix-ink-licensing-deals-with-abc-add-new-content-fo/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/01/amazon-netflix-ink-licensing-deals-with-abc-add-new-content-fo/#comments
It was a pretty busy day for the Disney-ABC Television Group yesterday, as the company announced a new licensing deal with Amazon, while renewing its pre-existing agreement with Netflix. The Amazon deal will allow Amazon Prime members to access all prior seasons of Grey's Anatomy, every episode of Lost, and all previous seasons of The Secret Life of the American Teenager, among other series. Amazon expects to add a total of some 13,000 titles to Prime Instant Video by "early next year," and just in time for the holiday season (as well as the release of the Kindle Fire). The renewal of Netflix's deal, meanwhile, ensures that the company will continue to offer episodes of shows like Private Practice, Brothers and Sisters, and Ugly Betty, as well as new additions, including Switched at Birth, Kick Buttowski and Alias. Basically, though, it's just more of the same. But at a time when Netflix is losing customers in the wake of its price hike and Qwikster debacle, maybe stability isn't such a bad thing. Surf past the break for a pair of dueling PRs.

Continue reading Amazon, Netflix ink licensing deals with ABC, add new content for you to munch on

Amazon, Netflix ink licensing deals with ABC, add new content for you to munch on originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 01 Nov 2011 04:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ABCABC DisneyAbcDisneyAliasamazonamazon instant videoamazon prime instant videoAmazonInstantVideoAmazonPrimeInstantVideobusinesscontentdealDesperate HousewivesDesperateHousewivesDisneyhdpostminikick buttkowskiKickButtkowskilicensinglicensing agreementLicensingAgreementLostnetflixrenewalswitched at birthSwitchedAtBirthtelevisionThe Secret Life of the American TeenagerTheSecretLifeOfTheAmericanTeenagerTVTV showTvShowTue, 01 Nov 2011 04:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Kinect adds Sesame Street and National Geographic to Xbox Live, makes motion control wholesome fun]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/20/kinect-adds-sesame-street-and-national-geographic-to-xbox-live/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/20/kinect-adds-sesame-street-and-national-geographic-to-xbox-live/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/20/kinect-adds-sesame-street-and-national-geographic-to-xbox-live/#comments
Kinect -- it's the Xbox 360 peripheral that just keeps on giving, now with more edutainment. Yes, that collision of worlds typically yields cringe- and boredom-inducing interactive experiences. Not so with this marriage of MS' motion-controlling sensor and the fine folks behind TV mainstays like Sesame Street, National Geographic and Disney. The newly inked content partnerships will see the creation of specifically tailored episodes of Kinect Nat Geo TV, in addition to a season's worth of Kinect Sesame Street TV for Xbox Live, letting your youngins play virtual connect the dots with Elmo. Plans are also underway for a virtual storybook effort, codenamed Project Columbia, aimed at indoctrinating children into the fundamentals of reading, and Rush, a videogame that'll lead adults and their tots alike through Pixar's virtual worlds. These various family-friendly titles and TV shows are set to rollout sometime next spring, so if you need to get your little ones' blood pumping (and slim down those love handles while you're at it), it looks like X's prepping to mark that spot. Official presser after the break.

Continue reading Kinect adds Sesame Street and National Geographic to Xbox Live, makes motion control wholesome fun

Kinect adds Sesame Street and National Geographic to Xbox Live, makes motion control wholesome fun originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 20 Oct 2011 14:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DisneyedutainmentKinectKinect Nat Geo TVKinect Sesame Street TVKinectNatGeoTvKinectSesameStreetTvMicrosoftmicrosoft kinectMicrosoft StudiosMicrosoft XboxMicrosoft Xbox 360Microsoft Xbox 360 KinectMicrosoftKinectMicrosoftStudiosMicrosoftXboxMicrosoftXbox360MicrosoftXbox360KinectNational GeographicNationalGeographicPixarProject ColumbiaProjectColumbiaRushSesame StreetSesameStreetvideo gamesVideoGamesXbox 360Xbox LiveXbox360XboxLiveThu, 20 Oct 2011 14:07:00 EST<![CDATA[SideBySide makes tiny projectors fun again (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/17/sidebyside-makes-tiny-projectors-fun-again-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/17/sidebyside-makes-tiny-projectors-fun-again-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/17/sidebyside-makes-tiny-projectors-fun-again-video/#comments Kids these days just don't get thrilled by tiny projectors the way they used to. Disney Research is hoping to address the problem with its new SideBySide prototype, a pico projector that interacts with images projected nearby. The device outputs both visible and infrared light, while a built-in sensor detects the latter, allowing it to react to the image. The team showed off a handful of applications for the technology, including a few games, drag and drop file sharing and the ability to change perspectives on a 3D model. Non-interactive video after the jump.

Continue reading SideBySide makes tiny projectors fun again (video)

SideBySide makes tiny projectors fun again (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 17 Oct 2011 13:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>disneydisney researchDisneyResearchinfraredpicopico projectorsPicoProjectorsprojectorprojectorsvideoMon, 17 Oct 2011 13:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Disney Mobile DM010SH Android phone hits Softbank stores in Japan, we go hands-on (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/10/disney-mobile-dm010sh-android-phone-hits-softbank-stores-in-japa/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/10/disney-mobile-dm010sh-android-phone-hits-softbank-stores-in-japa/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/10/disney-mobile-dm010sh-android-phone-hits-softbank-stores-in-japa/#comments Disney Mobile's first Android-powered smartphone hit Softbank Mobile stores in Japan earlier this month, with 0 JPY (about $0) due up front. You won't be getting off that easy though -- expect to pay just shy of 74,000 JPY (about $965) off contract, or 24 monthly installments of 880 JPY (about $11) if you opt for the two-year agreement. The Android 2.3 (Gingerbread) DM010SH packs a 4-inch 960 x 540 qHD display with 3D support, a 1GHz processor, and the typical spattering of smartphone features, including 3G data, WiFi, GPS, Bluetooth and microSDHC expandability, along with an 8 megapixel camera.

Rest assured that Disney branding abounds, from the company logo just below the earpiece, to those signature mouse ears that replace a generic home button. There's also a default Snow White 3D wallpaper and a home screen link to the D-Market, where you can load up your device with Disney-branded mail, calendar, photo, calculator and pedometer apps -- so you can meet those fitness goals with hopes of getting one more Halloween out of that child-size Minnie Mouse costume.

We dropped by a Softbank store in Tokyo to play around with a Classic White version of the device (Classic Pink is also an option, though sadly we had to settle for boring old vanilla). Once you get past the not-so-subtle Disney branding, it looks and functions like any other Android smartphone. It felt quite snappy as well -- launching apps and loading web pages with just as much pep as many other Android phones we've used. Make no mistake, the appeal here is definitely the Disney Mobile branding -- but you should be pleased, assuming you don't mind paying a rather lofty sum for a ho-hum device to fit within your Heigh-Ho lifestyle. Jump past the break for a video walkthrough.

Gallery: Disney Mobile DM010SH Android smartphone hands-on

Continue reading Disney Mobile DM010SH Android phone hits Softbank stores in Japan, we go hands-on (video)

Disney Mobile DM010SH Android phone hits Softbank stores in Japan, we go hands-on (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 10 Oct 2011 17:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid 2.3Android2.3cell phonecell phonescellphonecellphonesdigital picture frameDigitalPictureFramedisneydisney phoneDisneyPhoneDM001DM010SHDM011SHFWVGAgingerbreadhands-onjapanmickeymickey mouseMickeyMouseqhdsmartphonesmartphonessoftbanksoftbank mobileSoftbankMobiletokyovideoMon, 10 Oct 2011 17:12:00 EST<![CDATA[Disney launches two new Android smartphones, mouse ears not included]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/28/disney-launches-two-new-android-smartphones-mouse-ears-not-incl/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/28/disney-launches-two-new-android-smartphones-mouse-ears-not-incl/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/28/disney-launches-two-new-android-smartphones-mouse-ears-not-incl/#comments Mickey's ditching the steamboat and giving up Fantasia in pursuit of all things mobile as Disney launches the DM011SH and DM010SH -- joining the company's other Android offering. The 4-inch 3D capable DM010SH handset will be Walt's top-of-the-line variant with a 960 x 540 qHD touchscreen, 8MP camera and a 1GHz processor. Next in line is the DM011SH waterproof slider with a 3.4-inch touchscreen sporting 854 X 480 resolution and an identical processor and camera to its higher-end cousin. Both Android 2.3 phones come decorated with the signature insignia in tweentastic candy colors like pink and white, with a black version of the DM010SH available for more subdued Mouse House fans. Aside from the phones, Disney also outed the internet-enabled DM001Photo, a 9.4 x 5.6-inch digital picture frame for viewing pictures, videos and emails over 3G for ¥890 (or $11) a month. Although prices have yet to be finalized, the DM010SH is slated to hit the Japanese market in October, while the other two should appear on store shelves by December. Check out the full Japanese PR and product pages by hitting the source links after the break.

Disney launches two new Android smartphones, mouse ears not included originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 28 Sep 2011 21:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid 2.3Android2.3cellphonecellphonesdigital picture frameDigitalPictureFramedisneydisney phoneDisneyPhoneDM001DM010SHDM011SHFWVGAgingerbreadjapanmickeymickey mouseMickeyMousemobilepostminiqhdsmartphonesmartphonestablettabletsWed, 28 Sep 2011 21:08:00 EST<![CDATA[Disney Appmates 'Cars' toys mean parents may never see their iPads again (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/27/disney-appmates-cars-toys-mean-parents-may-never-see-their-ipa/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/27/disney-appmates-cars-toys-mean-parents-may-never-see-their-ipa/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/27/disney-appmates-cars-toys-mean-parents-may-never-see-their-ipa/#comments If you're a parent with an iPad, there's a good chance your tablet already disappears for long stretches, only to come back covered in tiny fingerprints. Today's Appmates announcement from Disney will likely have plenty of parents seriously considering the purchase of a second tablet for the home. The Cars toys are meant to be driven across the top of an iPad, interacting with a downloadable Cars 2 Appmates app, which lets kids drive around courses, race and complete missions. The app will be offered up as a free download through iTunes, and the cars will run $20 for a two-pack -- the different toys unlock different features, according to Disney. The toys will be made available in October through Apple and Disney Stores and various retailers. Press info and a video after the break.

Continue reading Disney Appmates 'Cars' toys mean parents may never see their iPads again (video)

Disney Appmates 'Cars' toys mean parents may never see their iPads again (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 27 Sep 2011 10:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleappmatescarscars 2Cars2disneydisney appmatesDisneyAppmatesipadipad 2Ipad2kidstoysvideoTue, 27 Sep 2011 10:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Roku announces Disney partnership, YouTube channel in the works]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/21/roku-announces-disney-partnership-youtube-channel-in-the-works/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/21/roku-announces-disney-partnership-youtube-channel-in-the-works/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/21/roku-announces-disney-partnership-youtube-channel-in-the-works/#comments Roku has been charming the pants off Google and the suspenders off Mickey. The media streaming company has shed light on both the development of a YouTube channel and a partnership with Disney. After an unofficial attempt at viral video stardom was quickly squashed by Google, Roku has confirmed via Facebook plans for a new YouTube channel. In another win for Roku addicts, the company launched a Disney channel where fans of the cartoon crew can ingest short form content from Disney.com, including animated shorts, movie trailers and music videos. As the first connected device to offer content from the Magic Kingdom, the friendship gives Roku some serious leverage over its competitors, just in time for the holiday spending spree.

Continue reading Roku announces Disney partnership, YouTube channel in the works

Roku announces Disney partnership, YouTube channel in the works originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 21 Sep 2011 16:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apple TVAppleTvboxeecartoonsconnected deviceConnectedDevicecontentdisneyGooglehdpostminiinternet TVInternetTvrokuTVYouTubeWed, 21 Sep 2011 16:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Row 44 gets major studio support for in-flight VOD platform, can't match Gogo's reach]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/12/row-44-gets-major-studio-support-for-in-flight-vod-platform-can/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/12/row-44-gets-major-studio-support-for-in-flight-vod-platform-can/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/12/row-44-gets-major-studio-support-for-in-flight-vod-platform-can/#comments Southwest Airlines passengers now have something better to do on their cross-country jaunts than grip the armrests and pray that the kid behind 'em stops kicking the seat. Row 44 has partnered with Disney, Warner Brothers, Universal and Fox to create an on-demand streaming service for folks who bring their WiFi-enabled devices onboard. You'll get a variety of archive content to watch as you cruise the friendly skies, including shows like Friends, Glee and The Office as well as big-ticket movies like Harry Potter, Avatar and Inception. The service also offers streaming IPTV, with CNBC, Fox News and NBC Sports on tap initially. Row 44's market share is paltry compared to Gogo -- which has the business of every WiFi-lovin' airline in America outside of Southwest -- but it's certainly interesting news in light of the latter's own video endeavors. Mum's the word on pricing, but we're told that the new material can be accessed "later this year."

Continue reading Row 44 gets major studio support for in-flight VOD platform, can't match Gogo's reach

Row 44 gets major studio support for in-flight VOD platform, can't match Gogo's reach originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 12 Sep 2011 19:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DisneyFoxGogoIn Flight WiFIInFlightWifiIPTVNorwegian Air ShuttleNorwegian Air Shuttle ASANorwegianAirShuttleNorwegianAirShuttleAsaRow 44Row 44 WiFiRow44Row44WifiSouthwest AirlinesSouthwestAirlinesStreamingUniversalVideo on DemandVideoOnDemandWarner BrosWarnerBrosWiFiMon, 12 Sep 2011 19:47:00 EST<![CDATA[Starz ends renewal negotiations with Netflix, will pull movies from streaming in February]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/01/starz-ends-renewal-negotiations-with-netflix-will-pull-movies-f/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/01/starz-ends-renewal-negotiations-with-netflix-will-pull-movies-f/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/01/starz-ends-renewal-negotiations-with-netflix-will-pull-movies-f/#comments Starz has apparently decided it can live without the hundreds of millions of dollars a renewal of its content licensing deal with Netflix was expected to bring and announced an end to negotiations today. According to the Company Town blog, talks broke down over Starz's insistence that Netflix implement tiered pricing, and charge customers even more for access to its content. That means when the current deal expires on February 28, 2012, they will all go away, including a number of its newer release flicks from Sony (already pulled) and Disney that Starz has exclusive licenses to and Starz content like Camelot and Spartacus. To make matters worse, all of this is going down the same day as a price hike makes it more expensive to keep both disc and streaming services.

While Starz claims the move is a part of its strategy to "protect the premium nature of our brand by preserving the appropriate pricing and packaging of our exclusive and highly valuable content" as well as "evaluate new opportunities", Netflix spokesman Steve Swasey is quoted as saying it can redirect the Starz money to deals with other content providers to "maintain or even improve the Netflix experience." Beyond Starz, in the US Netflix also has access to newer movies from its deals with Epix and a few smaller distributors like Relativity Media. Check Starz's statement in full after the break, and let us know if this is changing your answer to yesterday's poll question.

Continue reading Starz ends renewal negotiations with Netflix, will pull movies from streaming in February

Starz ends renewal negotiations with Netflix, will pull movies from streaming in February originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 01 Sep 2011 21:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>disneyhdpostcrosslicenselicensingnegotiationsnetflixnew releaseNewReleaserenewalsonystarzstarz playStarzPlaystreamingwatch instantlyWatchInstantlyThu, 01 Sep 2011 21:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Surround Haptics could bring force feedback to vests, coasters and gaming (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/11/surround-haptics-could-bring-force-feedback-to-vests-coasters-a/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/11/surround-haptics-could-bring-force-feedback-to-vests-coasters-a/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/11/surround-haptics-could-bring-force-feedback-to-vests-coasters-a/#comments Haptics and gaming have gone hand in hand for centuries it seems -- well before the Rumble Pak made itself an N64 staple, we vividly recall snapping up a vibration jumpsuit for our Sega Genesis. 'Course, it was on clearance for a reason. Ali Israr et al. were on hand here at SIGGRAPH's E-tech conference to demonstrate the next big leap in haptics, joining hands with Disney Research in order to showcase a buzzing game chair for use with Split/Second. The seat shown in the gallery (and video) below cost around $5,000 to concoct, with well over a dozen high-end coils tucked neatly into what looked to be a snazzy padding set for an otherwise uneventful seating apparatus.

We sat down with members of the research team here in Vancouver, and while the gaming demo was certainly interesting, it's really just the tip of the proverbial iceberg. The outgoing engineers from Black Rock Studios helped the team wire stereoscopic audio triggers to the sensors, with a left crash, right scrape and a head-on collision causing the internal coils to react accordingly. Admittedly, the demo worked well, but it didn't exactly feel comfortable. In other words -- we can't exactly say we'd be first in line to pick one of these up for our living room.

Gallery: Surround Haptics force feedback chair at SIGGRAPH 2011

Continue reading Surround Haptics could bring force feedback to vests, coasters and gaming (video)

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Surround Haptics could bring force feedback to vests, coasters and gaming (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 11 Aug 2011 15:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>disneydisney researchDisneyResearchgaminghands-onhapticresearchsiggraphsiggraph 2011Siggraph2011Surround HapticsSurroundHapticsvideoThu, 11 Aug 2011 15:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Researchers demo 3D face scanning breakthroughs at SIGGRAPH, Kinect crowd squarely targeted]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/10/researchers-demo-3d-face-scanning-breakthroughs-at-siggraph-kin/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/10/researchers-demo-3d-face-scanning-breakthroughs-at-siggraph-kin/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/10/researchers-demo-3d-face-scanning-breakthroughs-at-siggraph-kin/#comments Lookin' to get your Grown Nerd on? Look no further. We just sat through 1.5 hours of high-brow technobabble here at SIGGRAPH 2011, where a gaggle of gurus with IQs far, far higher than ours explained in detail what the future of 3D face scanning would hold. Scientists from ETH Zürich, Texas A&M, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Carnegie Mellon University as well as a variety of folks from Microsoft Research and Disney Research labs were on hand, with each subset revealing a slightly different technique to solving an all-too-similar problem: painfully accurate 3D face tracking. Haoda Huang et al. revealed a highly technical new method that involved the combination of marker-based motion capture with 3D scanning in an effort to overcome drift, while Thabo Beeler et al. took a drastically different approach.

Those folks relied on a markerless system that used a well-lit, multi-camera system to overcome occlusion, with anchor frames acting as staples in the success of its capture abilities. J. Rafael Tena et al. developed "a method that not only translates the motions of actors into a three-dimensional face model, but also subdivides it into facial regions that enable animators to intuitively create the poses they need." Naturally, this one's most useful for animators and designers, but the first system detailed is obviously gunning to work on lower-cost devices -- Microsoft's Kinect was specifically mentioned, and it doesn't take a seasoned imagination to see how in-home facial scanning could lead to far more interactive games and augmented reality sessions. The full shebang can be grokked by diving into the links below, but we'd advise you to set aside a few hours (and rest up beforehand).

Gallery: Researchers demo 3D face scanning breakthroughs at SIGGRAPH 2011

Continue reading Researchers demo 3D face scanning breakthroughs at SIGGRAPH, Kinect crowd squarely targeted

Researchers demo 3D face scanning breakthroughs at SIGGRAPH, Kinect crowd squarely targeted originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 10 Aug 2011 21:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3d3d scanning3dScanninganimationARaugmented realityAugmentedRealitycmudisneydisney researchDisneyResearchfacial scanningFacialScanningkinectmarkermicrosoftMicrosoft ResearchMicrosoftResearchmo capmo-capMoCapmotion captureMotionCaptureresearchscanscanningsiggraphsiggraph 2011Siggraph2011universityvideoWed, 10 Aug 2011 21:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Wall-E meets his Canadian DJ maker, turns into a real robot toy (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/24/wall-e-meets-his-canadian-dj-maker-turns-into-a-real-robot-toy/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/24/wall-e-meets-his-canadian-dj-maker-turns-into-a-real-robot-toy/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/24/wall-e-meets-his-canadian-dj-maker-turns-into-a-real-robot-toy/#comments What do you get when you cross a dj with a "Canadian roboticist?" An almost true-to-fiction Wall-E, that's what. In this rendition of garbage-bot gone cute, amateur robotics enthusiast DJ Sures (yes, he makes music) hollowed out a U-Command Wall-E toy and fixed him up with some servo guts. The voice-activated, semi-autonomous modjob has a built-in eye camera that recognizes motion, colors and faces, coming the closest we've seen to replicating the CG-romantic. The whole AA-battery powered affair runs on the EZ-B Robot Controller software shown off by Sures in the video below. And unlike other past re-creations, this little guy knows how to get down without the need for sped up video tricks. Clearly, the Pixar-bred bot's become the unofficial icon of the homebrew robotics community, so where's his official counterpart? You listening Disney? Get cracking.

Continue reading Wall-E meets his Canadian DJ maker, turns into a real robot toy (video)

Wall-E meets his Canadian DJ maker, turns into a real robot toy (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 24 Jul 2011 05:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CanadaCanadianDisneydjDJ SuresDjSuresEZ-B Robot ControllerEz-bRobotControllerhomebrewmodPixarremote controlremote controlledRemoteControlRemoteControlledrobotroboticistroboticistsroboticsvideoWall-ESun, 24 Jul 2011 05:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Pirates of the Caribbean Blu-ray combo arrives October 18th in two, five or 15 disc sets]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/15/pirates-of-the-caribbean-blu-ray-combo-arrives-october-18th-in-t/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/15/pirates-of-the-caribbean-blu-ray-combo-arrives-october-18th-in-t/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/15/pirates-of-the-caribbean-blu-ray-combo-arrives-october-18th-in-t/#comments Three years after the first three movies were released on Blu-ray as a combo, the fourth Pirates of the Caribbean movie, On Stranger Tides, is ready to come home. Expect it in multiple forms, from a simple two disc combo with the movie on Blu-ray and DVD to a five disc pack that throws in a Blu-ray 3D edition and another Blu-ray full of extras, and finally the big daddy 15-disc Pirate's Chest Limited Collectors Edition (pictured above) that contains all four movies, a never before seen short film and more. All Blu-ray editions include a Disney Second Screen tie-in like the one seen on Bambi and Tron: Legacy, if you're wondering what else is in store check after the break for the press release with all the details, and one of the bonus clips.

Continue reading Pirates of the Caribbean Blu-ray combo arrives October 18th in two, five or 15 disc sets

Pirates of the Caribbean Blu-ray combo arrives October 18th in two, five or 15 disc sets originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 15 Jul 2011 15:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blu-rayblu-ray 3dBlu-ray3dcollectors editionCollectorsEditiondisneyhdjack sparrowJackSparrowjohnny deppJohnnyDepplimited collectors editionLimitedCollectorsEditionpirates of the caribbeanPirates of the Caribbean 4pirates of the caribbean: on stranger tidesPiratesOfTheCaribbeanPiratesOfTheCaribbean4PiratesOfTheCaribbean:OnStrangerTidestreasure chestTreasureChestFri, 15 Jul 2011 15:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Potential Hulu deal with Disney increases ads, value to prospective buyers]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/24/potential-hulu-deal-with-disney-increases-ads-value-to-potentia/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/24/potential-hulu-deal-with-disney-increases-ads-value-to-potentia/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/24/potential-hulu-deal-with-disney-increases-ads-value-to-potentia/#comments Now that Hulu's owners have apparently decided the best thing to do is sell it to someone else, long arrangements for content are needed to bring the highest price. Bloomberg is reporting that after cutting a deal with Fox a few days ago Hulu has now tentatively reached a deal with another of its owners, Disney. While both arrangements could keep the TV shows flowing, they also reportedly include provisions to increase the number of ads shown on the service. That would also put it in position to reach a similar agreement with Comcast-owned NBCUniversal, because of the media giant's FCC promise to reach similar agreements as its competitors for online content. A change of ownership and including more ad breaks could turn off viewers, but really what else are they going to do, go back to watching Saturday Night Live on TV?

Potential Hulu deal with Disney increases ads, value to prospective buyers originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 24 Jun 2011 23:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abcdisneyfoxhuluhulu plusHuluPlusnbc universalNbcUniversalnews corpNewsCorpsaleFri, 24 Jun 2011 23:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Disney is releasing Beauty and the Beast 3D on Blu-ray October 4th]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/09/disneys-releasing-beauty-and-the-beast-3d-on-blu-ray-october-4t/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/09/disneys-releasing-beauty-and-the-beast-3d-on-blu-ray-october-4t/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/09/disneys-releasing-beauty-and-the-beast-3d-on-blu-ray-october-4t/#comments Beauty and the Beast 3D popped up on Amazon a few weeks ago along with The Lion King, and after officially unveiling the latter, Disney has finally seen fit to announce Beast 3D is coming home on Blu-ray October 4, 2011. There's only one version being made available, a 5-disc combo pack (Blu-ray 3D, Blu-ray, Bonus Features Blu-ray, DVD, Digital Copy) with a $49.99 MSRP that's currently listed at $44.99 on Amazon. The official site lists special features including a never before seen alternate opening and deleted scene, behind the scenes featurette and more. Check out the list after the break, plus a trailer if you've somehow forgotten any of the songs.

Continue reading Disney is releasing Beauty and the Beast 3D on Blu-ray October 4th

Disney is releasing Beauty and the Beast 3D on Blu-ray October 4th originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 09 Jun 2011 19:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beauty and thebeauty and the beast 3dBeautyAndTheBeautyAndTheBeast3ddisneyhdThu, 09 Jun 2011 19:56:00 EST<![CDATA[NBC Universal wins Olympic broadcasts through 2020, promises all events live starting in 2014]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/07/nbc-universal-wins-olympic-broadcasts-through-2020-promises-all/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/07/nbc-universal-wins-olympic-broadcasts-through-2020-promises-all/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/07/nbc-universal-wins-olympic-broadcasts-through-2020-promises-all/#comments We've got some bad news if you're not a fan of how NBC covers the Olympics because the IOC just announced NBC Universal has won the rights to broadcast the Games through 2020 with a $4.38 billion bid, winning over rivals ABC/ESPN and Fox. ESPN and Disney had been very upfront about their desire to broadcast the games and mentioned more than once they would provide all the events live the way we prefer to see them. The good news is that according to NBC Sports Group Chairman Mark Lazarus, every event will be aired live on TV or over the internet -- starting in 2014. While Comcast and NBC try to turn things around from the 2010 Games that it lost money broadcasting, we'll probably have to suffer through tape delay one more time for the London Games next summer.

Continue reading NBC Universal wins Olympic broadcasts through 2020, promises all events live starting in 2014

NBC Universal wins Olympic broadcasts through 2020, promises all events live starting in 2014 originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 07 Jun 2011 16:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abccomcastdisneyespnfoxhdiocnbcnbc universalNbcUniversalolympic gamesOlympicGamesolympicssportssummer olympicsSummerOlympicswinter olympicsWinterOlympicsTue, 07 Jun 2011 16:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas 3D ships via disc or download in August]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/03/tim-burtons-the-nightmare-before-christmas-3d-ships-via-disc-or/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/03/tim-burtons-the-nightmare-before-christmas-3d-ships-via-disc-or/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/03/tim-burtons-the-nightmare-before-christmas-3d-ships-via-disc-or/#comments If you loved the stop motion classic The Nighmare Before Christmas, the 3D version is coming home from Disney August 30th. Interestingly, the press release notes it will be on Blu-ray 3D and available for a 3D movie download, so we can only ponder what services (Vudu, Samsung, ?) will support 3D delivery by then. The MSRP on the combo pack (before any discounts) is $49.99 while the download is priced at a shocking $25. There's a slew of extras detailed in the press release after the break, but we'll have to hear more about what that 3D download entails before suggesting anyone except the biggest Tim Burton fans click the buy button.

Continue reading Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas 3D ships via disc or download in August

Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas 3D ships via disc or download in August originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 03 Jun 2011 17:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dblu-r 3dBlu-r3dblu-raydisneydownloadhdthe nightmare before christmasThe Nightmare Before Christmas 3-DTheNightmareBeforeChristmasTheNightmareBeforeChristmas3-dtim burtonTimBurtonFri, 03 Jun 2011 17:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Tactile Brush uses sensory illusions to let you feel games, movies]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/28/tactile-brush-uses-sensory-illusions-to-let-you-feel-games-movi/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/28/tactile-brush-uses-sensory-illusions-to-let-you-feel-games-movi/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/28/tactile-brush-uses-sensory-illusions-to-let-you-feel-games-movi/#comments TactileBrush Poor arachnophobes -- it's bad enough that 3D movies can make it look like swarms of eight-legged freaks are pouring out of the screen, now Disney wants you to feel the creepy crawlies, too. In a presumed effort to one-up those "4D" chairs used at Shrek's castle down in Orlando, the company has been working on what it calls Tactile Brush -- a chair with an array of 12 vibrating coils that are able to simulate anything from the sensation of speeding around a race track to the delicate drip of rain on your back. Two techniques are used: apparent motion, which triggers two motors in quick succession to create the illusion of something moving over your skin, and phantom sensation, in which two stationary vibrations are felt as a single tingle between the two points. Disney researchers demoed Tactile Brush at the Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems in Vancouver using a racing game, but hope to bring it to amusement park rides and movie theaters -- which, in the right hands, should lead to more screaming and at least a few pairs of wet pants.

Tactile Brush uses sensory illusions to let you feel games, movies originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 28 May 2011 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Disneydisney researchDisneyResearchillusionresearchsensationsensory illusionsSensoryIllusionsstudytactiletactile brushtactile feedbackTactileBrushTactileFeedbackvibrationSat, 28 May 2011 13:01:00 EST<![CDATA[The Lion King officially comes to Blu-ray, Blu-ray 3D October 4th after a short 3D-only theater run]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/26/the-lion-king-officially-comes-to-blu-ray-blu-ray-3d-october-4t/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/26/the-lion-king-officially-comes-to-blu-ray-blu-ray-3d-october-4t/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/26/the-lion-king-officially-comes-to-blu-ray-blu-ray-3d-october-4t/#comments Disney has officially announced release details for The Lion King in high definition, the three different boxed sets that were available for preorders last month will all come home starting October 4th. There's still no specific information on extras but the 8-, 4- or 2-disc set improved picture and sound, interactive features and a new set of blooper reels among the bonus features. Beyond the Blu-ray, The Lion King is first returning to theaters, with a two-week 3D-only engagement that kicks off September 16th so audiences can get a peek at the new conversion, and for those not into HD, the DVD will arrive November 15th. There's also an updated trailer for the set, check it out along with the press release after the break.

Continue reading The Lion King officially comes to Blu-ray, Blu-ray 3D October 4th after a short 3D-only theater run

The Lion King officially comes to Blu-ray, Blu-ray 3D October 4th after a short 3D-only theater run originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 26 May 2011 12:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dblu-rayblu-ray 3dBlu-ray3ddisneyhdthe lion kingtheaterTheLionKingThu, 26 May 2011 12:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Dumbo 70th Anniversary Blu-ray has a trailer and a release date: September 20th (Updated)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/29/dumbo-70th-anniversay-blu-ray-has-a-trailer-and-a-release-date/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/29/dumbo-70th-anniversay-blu-ray-has-a-trailer-and-a-release-date/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/29/dumbo-70th-anniversay-blu-ray-has-a-trailer-and-a-release-date/#comments After being pushed back and rumored more than once, Disney is finally ready to release the 70th anniversary edition of its classic Dumbo on Blu-ray in the US on September 20th. As far as features the caption only mentions a digital restoration and "Disney High Definition Theater Mix Sound". Right now you can preorder the combo pack on Amazon for $27.99 or just peep the trailer embedded above.

Update: Here we go, now with more box art and official press release included after the break. Expect a 7.1 audio soundtrack and Blu-ray exclusive features including Cine-Explore and Disney View plus two animated shorts, two games and a featurette. According to the press release, the picture has been restored from a 70 year old print stored by the Library of Congress that promises colors closest to those approved by Walt Disney himself, and the earlier surviving generation of the original audio for the movie.

Continue reading Dumbo 70th Anniversary Blu-ray has a trailer and a release date: September 20th (Updated)

Dumbo 70th Anniversary Blu-ray has a trailer and a release date: September 20th (Updated) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 29 Apr 2011 13:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blu-raydisneydumbodumbo 70th anniversaryDumbo70thAnniversaryhdtrailerFri, 29 Apr 2011 13:43:00 EST<![CDATA[Disney's The Lion King, Beauty and the Beast show up for preorders in Blu-ray, 3D boxed sets]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/25/disneys-the-lion-king-beauty-and-the-beast-show-up-for-preorde/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/25/disneys-the-lion-king-beauty-and-the-beast-show-up-for-preorde/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/25/disneys-the-lion-king-beauty-and-the-beast-show-up-for-preorde/#comments Disney hasn't officially revealed details of The Lion King on Blu-ray beyond saying it would launch later this year, but now two boxed sets have shown up at various retailers. That includes an 8-disc collection pictured above with The Lion King on Blu-ray 3D, Blu-ray, DVD and Digital Copy, The Lion King 1.5 on Blu-ray and DVD and The Lion King 2 on Blu-ray and DVD for $74.99, as well as a standard two disc set with just The Lion King on Blu-ray and DVD for $29.99. Also of note is a listing for Beauty and the Beast on Blu-ray 3D for $34.99. Check The Lion King's announce trailer again after the break, we'll let you know when special features, specs and release dates are available.

[Thanks, Mitchell]

Continue reading Disney's The Lion King, Beauty and the Beast show up for preorders in Blu-ray, 3D boxed sets

Disney's The Lion King, Beauty and the Beast show up for preorders in Blu-ray, 3D boxed sets originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 25 Apr 2011 11:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3danimatedbeauty and the beastBeauty and the Beast 3DBeautyAndTheBeastBeautyAndTheBeast3dblu-rayblu-ray 3dBlu-ray3dboxed setBoxedSetdisneyhdpreorderthe lion kingTheLionKingMon, 25 Apr 2011 11:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Lovefilm signs up Disney movies for subscription, VOD streaming in the UK]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/19/lovefilm-signs-up-disney-movies-for-subscription-vod-streaming/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/19/lovefilm-signs-up-disney-movies-for-subscription-vod-streaming/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/19/lovefilm-signs-up-disney-movies-for-subscription-vod-streaming/#comments In the UK, Lovefilm has cut a deal with Walt Disney to distribute its movies online, both under its all you can eat subscription service and newer flicks on VOD. It's a nonexclusive deal so if / when Netflix launches an offering across the pond it could potentially secure similar terms. Stateside, Netflix has access to some Disney content through its deal with ABC, and other movies by way of its deal with Starz. Another interesting element would be if Lovefilm owner Amazon worked out a deal for direct access to Disney flicks for its Prime Instant Video service over here, but for now we can only recommend our UK readers check out the press release after the break.

Continue reading Lovefilm signs up Disney movies for subscription, VOD streaming in the UK

Lovefilm signs up Disney movies for subscription, VOD streaming in the UK originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 19 Apr 2011 22:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>disneyhdlicensinglovefilmstreaming moviesStreamingMoviesukTue, 19 Apr 2011 22:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Tron: Legacy Blu-ray 3D review and Second Screen hands-on]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/07/tron-legacy-blu-ray-3d-review-and-second-screen-hands-on/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/07/tron-legacy-blu-ray-3d-review-and-second-screen-hands-on/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/07/tron-legacy-blu-ray-3d-review-and-second-screen-hands-on/#comments Befitting its storyline, the home release of Tron: Legacy this week checks all the tech related boxes: 7.1 surround sound support, iPad / PC Second Screen app, 3D. Even the making of the movie featured new technology, from the 3D cameras to the self-illuminating outfits worn by the actors. Of course, there's more to a good home movie experience than just specs, so we gave Tron: Legacy (and the original Tron, included as a part of this five-disc special edition) a viewing or two to see if all of that effort in the presentation -- not to mention in the movie itself -- added up to a must-have disc.

Continue reading Tron: Legacy Blu-ray 3D review and Second Screen hands-on

Tron: Legacy Blu-ray 3D review and Second Screen hands-on originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 07 Apr 2011 10:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dblu-rayblu-ray 3dBlu-ray3ddisneydisney second screenDisneySecondScreenhdlight bikesLightBikesreviewsecond screenSecondScreentrontron legacyTronLegacyThu, 07 Apr 2011 10:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Disney World's Haunted Mansion gets interactive upgrade, digital spooks (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/06/disney-worlds-haunted-mansion-gets-interactive-upgrade-digital/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/06/disney-worlds-haunted-mansion-gets-interactive-upgrade-digital/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/06/disney-worlds-haunted-mansion-gets-interactive-upgrade-digital/#comments It may not be as scary as Walt Disney World's Hall of Presidents, but the Florida theme park's Haunted Mansion just got a ghostly upgrade. The ride's grand finale, which previously positioned hitchhiking ghosts -- by way of half-silvered mirrors -- alongside unsuspecting visitors, is now reportedly using a series of digital mirrors and sensors to make things more interactive. As opposed to just popping up next to passengers, Disney's Ezra, Gus, and Phineas are now equipped to rip your head off, blow it up balloon-style, and send it flying. Sure it sounds scary, but this is Disney, the same company that didn't see the nightmare-inducing capabilities of a robotic Obama. For a peek at the new creepers, peep the video after break.

Continue reading Disney World's Haunted Mansion gets interactive upgrade, digital spooks (video)

Disney World's Haunted Mansion gets interactive upgrade, digital spooks (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 06 Apr 2011 19:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amusement parkAmusementParkdigitaldigital mirrorsDigitalMirrorsdisneydisney worldDisneyWorldghostshauntedhaunted mansionHauntedMansionmansionrideridestheme parkThemeParkvideoWed, 06 Apr 2011 19:21:00 EST