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[Netflix web streaming interface gets a new look with bigger icons, embedded previews]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/16/netflix-web-player-updated/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/16/netflix-web-player-updated/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/16/netflix-web-player-updated/#comments Netflix web streaming interface gets a new look with bigger icons, embedded previews

With the exception of tweaks for new features like HD video and closed captioning Netflix's Silverlight-based web player has been largely unchanged for years, but today everything is being reworked. As detailed in a post on the company's blog, PC and Mac users (no word on ChromeOS) the size of the player controls now scale to the window they're in and replace words with icons. Other new features users will notice is the ability to preview additional episodes of TV series without stopping the stream, title information that pops up when the stream is paused and that full screen viewing now has the same options as the windows player. The finale tweak is that the back to browsing button that brings viewers back to their queue has shifted from the bottom right to the top left. Hit the blog for the full breakdown, or just expect a surprise tomorrow when you're watching Downton Abbey at work Drive in the comfort of your own home during leisure time.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Netflix web streaming interface gets a new look with bigger icons, embedded previews originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 16 May 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>closed captioningClosedCaptioningcontrolshdhdpostcrossmacnetflixpcscalingsilverlightstreaminguiwatch instantlyWatchInstantlyWed, 16 May 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LG shows off UI 3.0 for Ice Cream Sandwich devices, says it's 'unobtrusive and simple']]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/16/lg-ui-3-0-android-ics-skin/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/16/lg-ui-3-0-android-ics-skin/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/16/lg-ui-3-0-android-ics-skin/#comments LG shows off its UI 3.0 for Ice Cream Sandwich devices, says it's 'unobtrusive and simple'

Love them or hate them, those ubiquitous Android skins aren't going anywhere any time soon. Now the latest one to make an entrance to the overlay game is LG's UI 3.0, which the Korean outfits says will make the overall experience of its handsets easier, speedier and "more convenient." The new UI brings features such as a novel drag anywhere-style lock screen, an Icon Customizer for setting your own photos as icons / shortcuts, a revamped Pattern Lock that lets you preset apps for quicker launch and a Voice Shutter trait for taking snaps via voice commands -- à la Sammy S Voice. UI 3.0 is set to make its debut next week with the launch of LG's Optimus LTE II in Korea, while the Optimus 4X HD will also come sporting the fresh skin once it launches in June.

Gallery: LG UI 3.0

Continue reading LG shows off UI 3.0 for Ice Cream Sandwich devices, says it's 'unobtrusive and simple'

LG shows off UI 3.0 for Ice Cream Sandwich devices, says it's 'unobtrusive and simple' originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 16 May 2012 12:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidAndroid 4.0Android Ice Cream SandwichAndroid ICSAndroid4.0AndroidIceCreamSandwichAndroidIcsIce Cream SandwichIceCreamSandwichicsLGlg optimus 4x hdlg optimus lte2LG UI 3.0LgOptimus4xHdLgOptimusLte2LgUi3.0mobilepostcrossoptimus 4x hdoptimus lte2Optimus4xHdOptimusLte2skinskinsUIUI 3.0UI 3.0 skinUi3.0Ui3.0SkinWed, 16 May 2012 12:39:00 EST<![CDATA[HTC exec: we didn't have much time with ICS when making Sense 4, but our skin is still better]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/04/htc-sense-4-drew-bamford/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/04/htc-sense-4-drew-bamford/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/04/htc-sense-4-drew-bamford/#comments HTC exec: we hardly saw ICS before releasing Sense 4, but our skin is still an 'improvement'

HTC's Drew Bamford is a long-time defender of the Sense UI, but in a fresh interview he's switched tactics and rushed headlong at the competition. He told Laptop that Sense 4 beats native Android 4 (as seen on the GNex) on a number of fronts, possessing a more inviting look, greater personalization of the lockscreen and wallpaper, plus faster camera performance. Of course, he would say that, but having spent many balmy evenings with both the One S and the One X we're inclined to agree that the latest version of the skin is lighter-footed and, actually, pretty nice. What's perhaps more revealing is Bamford's statement that HTC's software guys had "not a lot of time" with ICS before they released Sense 4, and had to build key components in isolation from the new OS. This could explain why HTC was forced to see sense (ahem) and tone down its custom layer. More broadly, if manufacturers are struggling to keep their handset launch schedules in sync with Google's in-house development, it's no wonder that Android skins seem so unsympathetic to the green robot's natural complexion.

HTC exec: we didn't have much time with ICS when making Sense 4, but our skin is still better originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 04 May 2012 08:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid 4Android 4.0android skinAndroid4Android4.0AndroidSkincustom skincustom uicustomized uiCustomizedUiCustomSkinCustomUidrew bamfordDrewBamfordfragmentationgooglehtchtc one shtc one xhtc sensehtc sense 4HTC Sense 4.0HtcOneSHtcOneXHtcSenseHtcSense4HtcSense4.0ice cream sandwichIceCreamSandwichicsmobilepostminiskinuiFri, 04 May 2012 08:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Woz: Windows Phone is 'beautiful,' Android 'no contest,' still loves iPhone, ask again tomorrow]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/28/woz-windows-phone-is-beautiful/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/28/woz-windows-phone-is-beautiful/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/28/woz-windows-phone-is-beautiful/#comments Woz: Windows Phone is 'beautiful,' Android no 'contest,' still loves iPhone, ask again tomorrow

When Steve Wozniak talks mobile, people love to listen. Last time we checked in, he was lauding some of Android's finer points, and now he's raining praise on Windows Phone. In an interview with A New Domain, the Apple co-founder was all too happy to share his recent positive experiences with the Espoo / Redmond collaboration. In particular, Woz waxes about how intuitive the interface is, and how naturally apps lead you around. He goes on to say how there's nothing he's seen that isn't more beautiful (than iOS and Android) on the Windows system, before claiming Android is "no contest" when it comes to the interface. It's not all lemonade and roses, however, as he then admits he's no fan of the voice control functionality compared to the other two platforms. When pushed to admit what he uses as default, it's still the iPhone -- two of them in fact -- but Woz's ability to see the best in all mobile operating systems will be sure to further confirm his status as one of tech's most liked. Head down to the source to hear for yourself.

[Thanks everyone who sent this in]

Woz: Windows Phone is 'beautiful,' Android 'no contest,' still loves iPhone, ask again tomorrow originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 28 Apr 2012 12:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidappleinterfaceinterviewmobilepostcrossnokianokia windows phoneNokiaWindowsPhonesteve wozniakSteveWozniakUIwindows phonewindows phone 7WindowsPhoneWindowsPhone7winphowinpho7WozWozniakSat, 28 Apr 2012 12:09:00 EST<![CDATA[Nokia 808 Pureview goes up against Nokia N8, should probably pick on someone its own age (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/27/nokia-808-pureview-goes-up-against-nokia-n8/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/27/nokia-808-pureview-goes-up-against-nokia-n8/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/27/nokia-808-pureview-goes-up-against-nokia-n8/#comments Nokia 808 Pureview goes up against Nokia N8, should probably pick on someone its own age (video)

Aside from a brief video ad to show off its own motion-capture chops, it's gone a little quiet on Nokia's 808 PureView. The imposing 41-megapixel cameraphone, or phone-camera, is Nokia's latest Symbian device so why not run it (almost) side-by-side with the Nokia N8? The screen looks substantially more impressive on the 808 PureView, which is 0.5 inches larger than its older relative, but that brighter showing probably has more to do with the new phone's placement center-stage in exx10sive's hands-on video. Arguably Nokia's last Symbian big-hitter, the 808 PureView seems far more responsive to touch; apps appear to launch almost immediately, while the Belle UI also seems better suited to the newer device, with larger menu text and icons in view. The camera app has also been given a more modern flavor, in line with other smartphone camera UIs. A full-fat eight-minute comparison lies in wait after the break. Hopefully, those hints at a May launch will hold true -- we're waiting for the camera, not the Symbian.

Continue reading Nokia 808 Pureview goes up against Nokia N8, should probably pick on someone its own age (video)

Nokia 808 Pureview goes up against Nokia N8, should probably pick on someone its own age (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 27 Apr 2012 10:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>40-megapixel40mp808808 PureView808Pureviewbellehands-onmobilepostcrossmobilepostminin8nokianokia 808nokia 808 PureViewnokia n8nokia pureviewNokia808Nokia808PureviewNokiaN8NokiaPureviewpureviewsmartphonesymbiansymbian belleSymbianBelleUIvideoFri, 27 Apr 2012 10:53:00 EST<![CDATA[Perifoveal Display tracks head positioning, highlights changing data on secondary LCDs (hands-on)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/25/mit-media-lab-perifoveal-display-hands-on/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/25/mit-media-lab-perifoveal-display-hands-on/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/25/mit-media-lab-perifoveal-display-hands-on/#comments Image

If there's a large display as part of your workstation, you know how difficult it can be to keep track of all of your windows simultaneously, without missing a single update. Now imagine surrounding yourself with three, or four, or five jumbo LCDs, each littered with dozens of windows tracking realtime data -- be it RSS feeds, an inbox or chat. Financial analysts, security guards and transit dispatchers are but a few of the professionals tasked with monitoring such arrays, constantly scanning each monitor to keep abreast of updates. One project from the MIT Media Lab offers a solution, pairing Microsoft Kinect cameras with detection software, then highlighting changes with a new graphical user interface.

Perifoveal Display presents data at normal brightness on the monitor that you're facing directly. Then, as you move your head to a different LCD, that panel becomes brighter, while changes on any of the displays that you're not facing directly (but still remain within your peripheral vision) -- a rising stock price, or motion on a security camera -- are highlighted with a white square, which slowly fades once you turn to face the new information. During our hands-on demo, everything worked as described, albeit without the instant response times you may expect from such a platform. As with most Media Lab projects, there's no release date in sight, but you can gawk at the prototype in our video just after the break.

Gallery: MIT Media Lab: Perifoveal Display

Continue reading Perifoveal Display tracks head positioning, highlights changing data on secondary LCDs (hands-on)

Perifoveal Display tracks head positioning, highlights changing data on secondary LCDs (hands-on) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 25 Apr 2012 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>displaydisplaysface trackingFaceTrackinggraphical user interfaceGraphicalUserInterfaceGUIhands-oninterfaceinterfaceskinectlablabsLCDLCDsmediamedia labMediaLabmicrosoftmicrosoft kinectMicrosoftKinectmitmit media labMitMediaLabmonitormonitorsPerifovealPerifoveal DisplayPerifovealDisplayprototypeprototypestrackingUIuser interfaceUserInterfacevideoWed, 25 Apr 2012 13:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Google TV's TV and Movies app gets to know you better with ratings, favorites and more]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/18/google-tv-tv-and-movies-app-update/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/18/google-tv-tv-and-movies-app-update/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/18/google-tv-tv-and-movies-app-update/#comments Image

At the center of the revamped Google TV experience that rolled out last fall is its TV & Movies app, which is a blended guide of content currently airing live on TV and available for streaming from the popular internet services (Netflix, Amazon, HBO Go). As Product Manager Rishi Chandra mentioned when we caught up with him at CES, personalization is something Google will be focusing on going forward and that's shown in the updated app being pushed out today. When it's first opened, users will login and be asked to rate a few movies and shows so it can get a sense of their tastes to know what to present, Netflix-style. There's more information displayed up front too, with expanded descriptions, and details below each show so viewers can find out about the episode that's on more easily. For a few more details on what's new and refreshed, check after the break.

Continue reading Google TV's TV and Movies app gets to know you better with ratings, favorites and more

Google TV's TV and Movies app gets to know you better with ratings, favorites and more originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 18 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonandroidappgooglegoogle tvGoogleTvguidehbo goHboGohdpostcrosshoneycombnetflixpersonalizationratingsrecommendationstvtv and moviestv guideTvAndMoviesTvGuideuiupdateWed, 18 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Chrome OS update pushes Aura desktop UI to devs]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/10/chrome-os-update-pushes-aura-desktop-ui-to-devs/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/10/chrome-os-update-pushes-aura-desktop-ui-to-devs/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/10/chrome-os-update-pushes-aura-desktop-ui-to-devs/#comments Chrome OS Update pushes Aura desktop UI to devsWhen the Aura UI first reared its rather ugly head back in November it was unclear what the future of the project was. Now, though, the hardware accelerated window manager and desktop has grown up (at least a little bit) and is being pushed out to owners of Acer and Samsung Chromebooks running on the dev channel. It's becoming clear that Google is prepping to take on the desktop OS market on more familiar ground. The updated UI includes a taskbar, a Launchpad-like launcher and individual overlapping windows, while hardware acceleration allows for those new components to feature slick animations. Chrome OS 19 also gains support for a few new file types, including .gz and .tar, as well as a slightly updated media player. The only truly unfortunate thing is it seems Cr-48 owners are left out in the cold. One more screenshot after the break.

Continue reading Chrome OS update pushes Aura desktop UI to devs

Chrome OS update pushes Aura desktop UI to devs originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 10 Apr 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acerAcer AC700AcerAc700auraaura uiAuraUichromechrome oschrome os 19chromebookChromeOsChromeOs19desktopgooglegoogle chrome osGoogleChromeOssamsungsamsung series 5samsung series 5 chromebookSamsungSeries5SamsungSeries5ChromebookUIwindow managerWindowManagerTue, 10 Apr 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Samsung considering Android-based digital camera]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/14/samsung-researching-android-based-digital-camera/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/14/samsung-researching-android-based-digital-camera/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/14/samsung-researching-android-based-digital-camera/#comments Android on a mainstream digital camera? Yes, you could live to see the day. We're at Samsung's Korean headquarters this week, where we had an opportunity to sit down with the company's research and development team to talk about the past, present and future of digital imaging. One interesting bit of discussion: Samsung is considering an "open" camera operating system. It's still early days and nothing is confirmed but, given the company's support for Android on other platforms, that OS would be a logical choice. What we know is that Samsung R&D has been researching bringing Android to its digital cameras -- a move that would be far from shocking, considering that development teams do tend to collaborate, and the company clearly has experience with the Google OS. And while there are likely to be such open OS prototypes buried deep within Sammy HQ, they're mere experiments at this point -- at least from a production perspective.

What exactly would an OS like Android mean for digital camera users? It could be a major breakthrough from a usability standpoint, opening up the in-camera ecosystem to third-party developers. We could see Twitter and Facebook apps that let you not only publish your photos directly with a familiar interface, but also see photos shared by your friends. A capacitive touchscreen would let you type in comments directly as well. You could publish to web-based services, utilize apps that enable post-capture creativity or receive firmware updates directly over WiFi. That hotshoe or USB port could accommodate a variety of different accessories, like a microphone or 4G modem that could be used with several models, including those from other manufacturers. While there's nothing making Android integration impossible from a technical standpoint, there are obvious disadvantages as well -- especially for camera makers. Stability would become an issue -- your camera could need a reboot just as often as your smartphone -- and such a powerful imaging device could theoretically cannibalize tablets and smartphones, though on a limited scale. Sadly this is merely educated speculation at this point, pending a product announcement from Samsung, though we wouldn't be surprised to see it come to fruition -- perhaps even before the next CES.

Update: Samsung reached out to us asking to clarify that this is simply something under consideration; nothing is confirmed yet. We've updated the post above to match.

Samsung considering Android-based digital camera originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 14 Mar 2012 10:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid cameraAndroidCameracameracamerasdigital cameraDigitalCameragooglegoogle androidgoogle osGoogleAndroidGoogleOsice cream sandwichIceCreamSandwichicsinterfacekoreaoperating systemoperating systemsOperatingSystemOperatingSystemsphotographysamsungseoulsouth koreaSouthKoreauiuser interfaceUserInterfaceWed, 14 Mar 2012 10:33:00 EST<![CDATA[GO Launcher comes to Android tabs, frees you from fixed grid tyranny]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/04/go-launcher-comes-to-android-tabs-frees-you-from-fixed-grid-tyr/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/04/go-launcher-comes-to-android-tabs-frees-you-from-fixed-grid-tyr/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/04/go-launcher-comes-to-android-tabs-frees-you-from-fixed-grid-tyr/#comments Got an Android tab and don't like its government manufacturer-issue UI? Then why not join the ranks of the launcher rebel alliance. GO Launcher EX for phones has been around for a while, but now it's been upscaled for Honeycomb 3.0+ slates under the GO HD moniker. It's only a beta release, and with that comes the normal caveats on functionality -- such as a lack of fancy transitions -- but you can still make other tweaks to your tab's interface, such as alter the grid size and customize your dock. Ready to cross enemy lines? Then launch your browser toward the source for the download.

GO Launcher comes to Android tabs, frees you from fixed grid tyranny originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 04 Mar 2012 08:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid launcherAndroidLauncherappapp launcherAppLauncherappsgo launcherGoLaunchergooglehoneycomblauncheruiuser interfaceUserInterfaceSun, 04 Mar 2012 08:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Google's Matias Duarte reveals design standards for Android 4.0 at CES 2012]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/12/google-design-standards-android-4-ice-cream-sandwich/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/12/google-design-standards-android-4-ice-cream-sandwich/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/12/google-design-standards-android-4-ice-cream-sandwich/#comments Looking for a little more consistent UI experience with your Android devices? Google is looking to make that happen as the folks in Mountain View has revealed that the upcoming Ice Cream Sandwich OS will be the first Android software to institute design standards for developers. Android Design is a online repository for the UI guidelines and blueprints for version 4.0, which we learned would unify smartphones and tablets back at Google I/O. This set of information should make things all neat and tidy for ICS devices, keeping user interface characteristics a bit more cohesive from app to app. Here, devs will find all the basic info and elements that are native to platform in order to make the best applications possible for the OS. Mr. Duarte warns that if you choose to not follow the style guide, your software will stand out -- and not in a good way. He also quipped that these are indeed guidelines, not mandates. And that they will gain value as more folks adopt them. Yeah, we know... the competition from Cupertino has been doing this for a while now, but a bit more structure in the Android universe certainly won't draw any complaints from us.

Continue reading Google's Matias Duarte reveals design standards for Android 4.0 at CES 2012

Google's Matias Duarte reveals design standards for Android 4.0 at CES 2012 originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 12 Jan 2012 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid 4.0Android Ice Cream SandwichAndroid4.0AndroidIceCreamSandwichappapplicationsAppStoreApprovalProcessbreaking newscesces 2012Ces2012designdesign guidelinesdesign standardsDesignGuidelinesDesignStandardsgoogleguidelinesIce Cream SandwichIceCreamSandwichmathias duarteMathiasDuartemobilepostcrosssmartphonessoftbankstandardstabletsUIThu, 12 Jan 2012 16:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Tobii's Gaze interface lets you use your eyes to move a cursor, perform gestures in Windows 8 (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/08/togiis-gaze-interface-lets-you-use-your-eyes-to-move-a-cursor/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/08/togiis-gaze-interface-lets-you-use-your-eyes-to-move-a-cursor/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/08/togiis-gaze-interface-lets-you-use-your-eyes-to-move-a-cursor/#comments We've seen gesture control, but how about an input device that lets you stare your PC into submission? That's the basic gist of Tobii's Gaze UI, an early version of which is on display here at CES, and which will eventually help doctors and other professionals skim through data just by looking at it. When this becomes available, likely in a year or so, customers will need some requisite hardware (read: that conspicuous eye tracking strip you see up there) and, of course, software that can take advantage of it. Got it? Good. Here's the elevator pitch: using your eyes, you can move the cursor around the screen, select objects, scroll and pinch to zoom. But if you imagined looking at your Firefox shortcut and blinking twice to open it, you'd be sorely disappointed: though you can use your eyes to drag the cursor, you'll still need to keep a finger on your touchpad. For instance, once you direct your eyes to a certain part of a webpage, you'll need to use two fingers to zoom in, as you normally would. Really, then, this is saving you from having to bear down on your clickpad, so for now, at least, your fingers can keep their day job.

Continue reading Tobii's Gaze interface lets you use your eyes to move a cursor, perform gestures in Windows 8 (video)

Tobii's Gaze interface lets you use your eyes to move a cursor, perform gestures in Windows 8 (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 08 Jan 2012 21:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cesces 2012Ces2012GazeGaze interfaceGaze UIGazeInterfaceGazeUiinterfacesoftwaretobiiUIuser interfaceUserInterfacevideoWin8Windows 8Windows8Sun, 08 Jan 2012 21:23:00 EST<![CDATA[HP redesigns its Magic Canvas software, plans to install it on all desktops (even non-touch ones)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/04/hp-renames-its-touchsmart-software-magic-canvas-plans-to-instal/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/04/hp-renames-its-touchsmart-software-magic-canvas-plans-to-instal/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/04/hp-renames-its-touchsmart-software-magic-canvas-plans-to-instal/#comments Though HP announced two desktops today, the most interesting tidbit might not be the computers, but the software installed on them. As the company releases new hardware, it's also rolling out a revamped version of its Magic Canvas UI (formerly known as TouchSmart). Now, it'll work even on PCs without touchscreens, and it's going to ship on every HP tower and all-in-one, including already-announced models like this. The most significant improvement is that you can now access the Start Menu and all your Windows apps, even when you're immersed in this UI that frankly looks more like a mobile OS than Windows 7. (If all this reeks of bloatware, you can uninstall or choose not to launch it.) As for that mobile-inspired experience, we're talking about those widgets and large, finger-friendly shortcuts, sure, but also the fact that you get an unlimited number of home screens for pinning notes and leaving documents open. Forget where you left your 15-page term paper? You can right click to bring up a search screen (we're not clear if there will be a keyboard shortcut for that). As we said, you can expect this to become ubiquitous on HP's desktops but if you want to see it in action now, you can head past the break for a short promo video.

Continue reading HP redesigns its Magic Canvas software, plans to install it on all desktops (even non-touch ones)

HP redesigns its Magic Canvas software, plans to install it on all desktops (even non-touch ones) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 04 Jan 2012 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>desktopdesktopsHPHP Magic CanvasHpMagicCanvasMagic CanvasMagicCanvassoftwareTouchSmartUIuser interfaceUserInterfacevideoWed, 04 Jan 2012 00:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Netflix updates iOS app with new iPad-optimized interface]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/14/netflix-updates-ios-app-with-new-ipad-optimized-interface/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/14/netflix-updates-ios-app-with-new-ipad-optimized-interface/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/14/netflix-updates-ios-app-with-new-ipad-optimized-interface/#comments We've already seen Netflix's more tablet-optimized interface in the latest version of its Android app and now, as promised, the company has brought much the same UI to its iOS app. In addition to giving iPad users the ability to view more content at a glance, version 2.0 of the app also brings with it support for Netflix users in Latin America, as well as a number of stability fixes. As always, it remains free for Netflix members -- hit up the App Store to download it now.

Netflix updates iOS app with new iPad-optimized interface originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 14 Dec 2011 13:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appapplehdpostcrossinterfaceiosios appIosAppipadnetflixstreaming videoStreamingVideotabletuiWed, 14 Dec 2011 13:37:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation Vita plays it smart with phone-like UI, we go hands-on]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/13/playstation-vita-plays-it-smart-with-phone-like-ui-we-go-hands/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/13/playstation-vita-plays-it-smart-with-phone-like-ui-we-go-hands/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/13/playstation-vita-plays-it-smart-with-phone-like-ui-we-go-hands/#comments We've handled the PlayStation Vita often enough to know our way around its lightweight chassis and petite thumbsticks, but whenever we've tried to explore the handheld's underlying user interface, event staff played interference. Developers at a recent Vita Hill Social Club event were much less shy, however, and let us poke and swipe through the Vita's menu with hardly a shrug.

Gallery: PlayStation Vita UI hands-on

Continue reading PlayStation Vita plays it smart with phone-like UI, we go hands-on

PlayStation Vita plays it smart with phone-like UI, we go hands-on originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 13 Dec 2011 09:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gaminghands-onplaystationplaystation vitaPlaystationVitasony playstationsony playstation vitaSonyPlaystationSonyPlaystationVitatouchscreenUIuser interfaceUserInterfacevideo gamesVideoGamesVita Hill Social ClubVitaHillSocialClubTue, 13 Dec 2011 09:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Logitech Revue Android 3.1 upgrade starts rolling out (Update: It's official)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/06/logitech-revue-android-3-1-upgrade-starts-rolling-out/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/06/logitech-revue-android-3-1-upgrade-starts-rolling-out/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/06/logitech-revue-android-3-1-upgrade-starts-rolling-out/#comments It appears owners of the Logitech Revue will finally be able to get their taste of Honeycomb starting tonight, as a few lucky users have already received an upgrade to Android 3.1 and support techs have informed them a wider rollout is beginning this evening. That puts it about a month behind Sony's Google TV boxes in receiving the upgrade, but will finally bring owners a whole new UI, and access to the Android Market -- and live up to those stickers on the outside of the box. The usual considerations apply about it being a rolling update so while your $99 box may not see the new software right away, it's definitely coming.

Update: Despite doubt by some over the news earlier, both Logitech and Google have just officially announced the Honeycomb upgrade for the Logitech Revue is going out OTA this week. Check the blog links for more details if you're still not convinced.

[Thanks, Brian]

Logitech Revue Android 3.1 upgrade starts rolling out (Update: It's official) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 06 Dec 2011 20:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid 3.1android marketAndroid3.1AndroidMarketappsgoogle tvGoogleTvhdpostcrosshoneycomblogitechlogitech revueLogitech Revue with Google TVLogitechRevueLogitechRevueWithGoogleTvrevueuiupgradeTue, 06 Dec 2011 20:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Android Design Preview simplifies app mockups, developers' lives (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/03/android-design-preview-simplifies-app-mockups-developers-lives/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/03/android-design-preview-simplifies-app-mockups-developers-lives/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/03/android-design-preview-simplifies-app-mockups-developers-lives/#comments A new Java utility should help Android developers and designers who need to rapidly prototype application layouts. The appropriately named Android Design Preview mirrors part of your desktop on an Android device over USB -- just select area on your computer screen and it'll show up remotely using the Android Debug Bridge. It's more lightweight than a VNC app and doesn't require a lot of mucking with settings, whether you're coding on Windows, Mac OS X or Linux. In other words, it's perfect for dealing with indecisive project managers who don't know what they want until you show it to them, and since it's free, you won't even need their budgetary approval.

Android Design Preview simplifies app mockups, developers' lives (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 03 Dec 2011 17:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid design previewAndroidDesignPreviewdeveloperdevelopmentGooglejarjavamobilemobilepostminiUIutilityvideoSat, 03 Dec 2011 17:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Will Windows 8 for ARM tablets cut the cord on desktop mode? (Update: Maybe not)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/02/will-windows-8-for-arm-tablets-cut-the-cord-on-desktop-mode/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/02/will-windows-8-for-arm-tablets-cut-the-cord-on-desktop-mode/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/02/will-windows-8-for-arm-tablets-cut-the-cord-on-desktop-mode/#comments Is it us, or is the dream of a full Windows experience on low-power ARM tablets getting steadily eroded? We've long known that these slates would sacrifice backwards compatibility with legacy software, but now it seems the familiar desktop mode could be getting the chop too. Paul Thurrott from SuperSite for Windows says he has good insider information that this mode will be limited to x86 devices, which would rule out using the traditional keyboard-and-mouse UI on an ARM tablet and force users to stick with the Metro UI at all times. By the sound of it, though, the matter is still being argued over within Microsoft and it's unclear whether the decision will apply to ARM-based notebooks too. All Thurrott could be sure of is that "the people who don't want there to be a desktop mode [in ARM tablets] have apparently won the day." Man, and just when we thought everyone was starting to get along so nicely.

Update: Paul Thurrott has just provided a bit of an update that he heard from a different source that, yes indeed, Windows 8 will include a desktop mode, even when running on ARM. Paul indicates he trusts these two sources equally, leaving us somewhat stuck in the middle.

Will Windows 8 for ARM tablets cut the cord on desktop mode? (Update: Maybe not) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 02 Dec 2011 07:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armarm tabletarm tabletsArmTabletArmTabletsdesktop modedesktop UIDesktopModeDesktopUiMetroMetro UIMetroUiMicrosoftpaul thurrottPaulThurrotttwit.tvUIwin8windows 8Windows8x86Fri, 02 Dec 2011 07:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Revamped Xbox 360 dashboard to launch on December 6th, Microsoft confirms]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/22/revamped-xbox-360-dashboard-to-launch-on-december-6th-microsoft/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/22/revamped-xbox-360-dashboard-to-launch-on-december-6th-microsoft/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/22/revamped-xbox-360-dashboard-to-launch-on-december-6th-microsoft/#comments
Earlier this month, Microsoft announced that its Xbox 360 dashboard would be getting an upgrade "in the coming days." Today, the company has clarified that statement, declaring that the revamped interface will launch on December 6th. As we've previously noted, the update promises to bring deeper Kinect integration (including sharper voice recognition capabilities), Facebook sharing mechanisms, and a cleaner interface. Redmond also says that the fall cleanup will introduce "a wealth of new content," including live TV, music and movies, available for streaming. For now, the dashboard is still in beta, though it certainly won't be long before the masses get their hands on it.

Update: Read Microsoft's e-mailed announcement in full, after the break.

Continue reading Revamped Xbox 360 dashboard to launch on December 6th, Microsoft confirms

Revamped Xbox 360 dashboard to launch on December 6th, Microsoft confirms originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 22 Nov 2011 03:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dashboarddashboard updateDashboardUpdateentertainmentfacebookgamegamerinterfaceKinectmicrosoftmoviesMSFTmusicsharingstreamingTVUIuser interfaceUserInterfacexboxxbox 360xbox 360 dashboardXbox360Xbox360DashboardTue, 22 Nov 2011 03:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Netflix reveals new user interface experience for Android tablets, iPad counterpart coming soon]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/15/netflix-reveals-new-user-interface-experience-for-android-tablet/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/15/netflix-reveals-new-user-interface-experience-for-android-tablet/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/15/netflix-reveals-new-user-interface-experience-for-android-tablet/#comments You've already had a peek at it in the Kindle Fire and Nook Tablet, but it seems that redesigned user interface is going to be hitting more than just the holiday's most-talked about duo. Netflix has made official a newly redesigned user interface experience for Android tablets -- one that "makes browsing and instantly watching unlimited TV shows and movies streaming from Netflix better than ever." The new look provides multiple rows of titles with larger artwork to scroll through, with Neil Hunt, chief product officer at Netflix, noting that the company has seen a "threefold increase in how long Netflix members are watching on their tablets." As of today, interested consumers can simply update their Netflix app in the Android Market, while iPad users are being asked to wait "a few weeks," after which the new tablet experience will be dubbed Tabster and led on Twitter by a 17-year old methamphetamine addict.

Continue reading Netflix reveals new user interface experience for Android tablets, iPad counterpart coming soon

Netflix reveals new user interface experience for Android tablets, iPad counterpart coming soon originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 15 Nov 2011 08:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonandroidandroid 3.0android tabletAndroid3.0AndroidTabletgooglehdpostcrosshoneycombipadkindle fireKindleFirenetflixnook tabletNookTabletsoftwareuiuser interfaceUserInterfaceTue, 15 Nov 2011 08:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Toys R Us' Nabi Android tablet lets junior play while mommy drinks]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/11/toys-r-us-nabi-android-tablet-lets-junior-play-while-mommy-drin/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/11/toys-r-us-nabi-android-tablet-lets-junior-play-while-mommy-drin/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/11/toys-r-us-nabi-android-tablet-lets-junior-play-while-mommy-drin/#comments
True, mommy may not have to drink, but as long as Toys R Us' Nabi tablet is in the house, that cabinet door will always be open. Designed to distract kids aged six years and up, this tot-sized Android slate boasts a seven-inch, 800 x 480 capacitive touchscreen display, 4GB of onboard storage, and a 533MHz dual-core Cortex-A9 CPU. These certainly aren't the most scintillating specs we've ever come across (even by kiddo tablet standards), but keep in mind that we're talking about six-year-olds, here. They don't know anything. Plus, they'll probably be distracted by the Nabi's customized UI, tailored for so-called "kiddified" browsing, reading and TV watching. If you ever get a hankering to get in on the action yourself, you can always send the beast to time out and play with the tablet yourself, thanks to a built-in "Mommy Mode" that provides a more mature Android experience. No word yet on whether Toys R Us plans to introduce a "Daddy Mode" (or, for that matter, a "Postman Mode"), but that's probably a conversation for another day. Hands-off parents can pre-order the Nabi for $200, at the source link below.

Toys R Us' Nabi Android tablet lets junior play while mommy drinks originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 11 Nov 2011 07:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>800 x 480800X480androidandroid tabletAndroidTabletappchildrene-bookeducationfamilykid friendlykiddifiedKidFriendlykidsmommy modeMommyModenabi tabletNabiTabletparentstablettoytoystoys r ustoys r us nabi tabletToysRUsToysRUsNabiTabletUIuser interfaceUserInterfaceFri, 11 Nov 2011 07:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Amazon Appstore for Android gets a Kindle Fire-inspired facelift]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/10/amazon-appstore-for-android-gets-a-kindle-fire-inspired-facelift/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/10/amazon-appstore-for-android-gets-a-kindle-fire-inspired-facelift/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/10/amazon-appstore-for-android-gets-a-kindle-fire-inspired-facelift/#comments
The Kindle Fire itself may still be a week away from release, but users of other Android tablets and phones can now get a small taste of what's in store courtesy of version 2.0 of the Amazon Appstore. That update began rolling out late last night and, as you can see above, it brings with it a refreshed UI that moves the app more in line with the Kindle Fire's steely gray interface. The update also adds support for in-app purchases and parental controls, as well as a number of other tweaks and performance improvements. Still no sign of those big-name apps that are promised for the Kindle Fire, though.

Amazon Appstore for Android gets a Kindle Fire-inspired facelift originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 10 Nov 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonamazon app storeAmazonAppStoreapp storeAppStoreinterfacekindlekindle fireKindleFiremobilepostcrossuiThu, 10 Nov 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[DirecTV shows off its new HD UI with a website and trailer, still no release date]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/22/directv-shows-off-its-new-hd-ui-with-a-website-and-trailer-stil/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/22/directv-shows-off-its-new-hd-ui-with-a-website-and-trailer-stil/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/22/directv-shows-off-its-new-hd-ui-with-a-website-and-trailer-stil/#comments That slick, speedy new interface DirecTV recently pushed out to beta testers is officially getting hyped with a new landing page and (unfortunately not embeddable) video trailer. It advertises all the features we'd heard about, including the facelifted HD graphics, "lightning fast" scrolling, visual browsing experience and personalized recommendations. The HD UI is still without a release date however, and while we'd probably put it it ahead of the DirecTiVo on the company's current priority list, let's not forget who we're dealing with here. Hit the source link for the orientation materials, there will be a quiz later.

Update: You can now view the video here, embedded after the break, thanks to our friend Dave Zatz!

[Thanks, Stuart & cypherstream]

Continue reading DirecTV shows off its new HD UI with a website and trailer, still no release date

DirecTV shows off its new HD UI with a website and trailer, still no release date originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 22 Oct 2011 16:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>directvdvrhd dvrhd uiHdDvrhdpostminiHdUiinterfacesatellitesatellite tvSatelliteTvset-top boxSet-topBoxsoftwareuiupgradevideoSat, 22 Oct 2011 16:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Kinect hack lets you manage your bank account with gestures, will occupy your living room (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/17/kinect-hack-lets-you-manage-your-bank-account-with-gestures-wil/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/17/kinect-hack-lets-you-manage-your-bank-account-with-gestures-wil/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/17/kinect-hack-lets-you-manage-your-bank-account-with-gestures-wil/#comments
You know all those convoluted gestures and hate-infused fist pumps you make every time you look at your bank account? Well, you can now put them to good use, thanks to a new Kinect hack from Lithuania-based Etronika. The company's software, which made its debut at last week's CTIA E&A event, effectively brings motion-controlled banking directly to your living room. All you have to do is stand in front of your display, clap your hands to choose an icon, or wave your hand back and forth to navigate across the app's carousel menu. This means you can pay your bills, check your balance and return to fetal position without even touching a sharp object. "A lot of banking software apps are filled with boring crap," Etronika CEO Kestutis Gardziulis explained with refreshing candor. "With our software, you could be on the couch at home, having a beer, all while dealing with your bank account and kicking back." Beer, banking and body language -- sounds scandalous! Head past the break to watch a demo video, starring Pam Beesly's doppelgänger.

Continue reading Kinect hack lets you manage your bank account with gestures, will occupy your living room (video)

Kinect hack lets you manage your bank account with gestures, will occupy your living room (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 17 Oct 2011 12:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appapplicationbankbankingctiaCtiaEa2011demodisplayEtronikafinancegestureinterfacekinectkinect hackKinectHackmicrosoft kinectMicrosoftKinectmoneymotion controlmotion controlledmotion sensorMotionControlMotionControlledMotionSensormovementonline bankingOnlineBankingpaymentpersonal bankingpersonal financePersonalBankingPersonalFinancesensorUIMon, 17 Oct 2011 12:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft responds to disgruntled users, unveils changes to Windows 8 UI]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/13/microsoft-responds-to-disgruntled-users-unveils-changes-to-wind/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/13/microsoft-responds-to-disgruntled-users-unveils-changes-to-wind/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/13/microsoft-responds-to-disgruntled-users-unveils-changes-to-wind/#comments You can unpack your suitcase and drop that custody suit, because Microsoft has heard your Windows 8 complaints, and it's willing to change its ways. Yesterday, in a lengthy post on its Building Windows 8 blog, the company acknowledged that it's received plenty of feedback since unleashing a developer preview of the OS last month, and pledged to respond with a number changes. For starters, apps displayed within the Windows 8 App Screen can now be organized into groups, rather than alphabetical arrangements (see image above). Apps will also be displayed at a higher density, thereby cramming more content within the same space. Enterprise users, meanwhile, will be able to customize their companies' Start screens and unify them across networks, though there's still no word on whether administrators will be able to opt out of the software's tiled interface in favor of the more Windows 7-esque Desktop app -- one of the most highly requested features. These are just two of many, relatively granular changes that Microsoft is implementing to help users maximize the efficiency of its new Start screen, and they likely won't be the last. To dig into the nitty gritty, check out the full post, at the source link below.

Microsoft responds to disgruntled users, unveils changes to Windows 8 UI originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 13 Oct 2011 06:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>administratorappapp screenapplicationAppScreendesktopdeveloperenterprisefeedbackmicrosoftMSMSFToperating systemOperatingSystemOSredmondstart screenStartScreenUIuser feedbackuser interfaceUserFeedbackUserInterfacewin 8Win8windowswindows 7windows 8Windows7Windows8Thu, 13 Oct 2011 06:31:00 EST<![CDATA[ITT unveils GhostRider encryption device capable of securing US Army smartphones]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/11/itt-unveils-ghostrider-encryption-device-capable-of-securing-us/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/11/itt-unveils-ghostrider-encryption-device-capable-of-securing-us/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/11/itt-unveils-ghostrider-encryption-device-capable-of-securing-us/#comments
That may look like a Motorola Atrix Dell Venue, but it's actually something known as the GhostRider -- a new encryption device that could go a long way toward securing the Army's smartphones. Developed by defense company ITT, this revamped handset would allow military personnel to transmit secure text messages and phone calls over the Army's network, even if they're out on the battlefield. All they'd have to do is place their personal phones next to the GhostRider, tap and hold its touchscreen to activate the security features and begin texting away. When another GhostRider user receives an SMS, he or she would have to enter a pass code before reading it. The phone's security mechanisms, meanwhile, have been certified by the cryptographers at the NSA, which would certainly help justify its $1,500 price tag. The handset's display, meanwhile, looks awfully similar to the Army's Nett Warrior platform -- an Android-based OS that features a host of mapping functions designed explicitly for war zones. Officials unveiled the latest incarnation of Nett Warrior at the recent Association of the US Army gala in DC, though the platform's creators are still looking for the appropriate commercial device to host it -- unless, of course, GhostRider's software replaces it altogether. "We think Nett Warrior should be something like this," ITT vice president Richard Takahashi told Wired. "This can be the smart device." March past the break for more information, in ITT's jargon-laced PR.

Update: Thanks to readers who spotted it's a Venue rather than an Atrix. Our eyes must have been temporarily scrambled by the enemy. Just to be clear -- it's not the handset that's different, only the peripheral.

Continue reading ITT unveils GhostRider encryption device capable of securing US Army smartphones

ITT unveils GhostRider encryption device capable of securing US Army smartphones originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 11 Oct 2011 15:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidcallcontractcryptodefenseencryptionencryption deviceEncryptionDeviceghostriderittmappingmilitarymotorolamotorola atrixMotorolaAtrixnational security agencyNationalSecurityAgencynett warriorNettWarriorNSAoperating systemOperatingSystemOSpasscodephonephone callPhoneCallsecuritysmartphonesoldierTextingUIus armyUsArmywarwar zonewargadgetWarZoneTue, 11 Oct 2011 15:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Amazon adds Kindle Fire-specific details to Developer Portal, A's your FAQ]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/07/amazon-adds-kindle-fire-specific-details-to-developer-portal-a/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/07/amazon-adds-kindle-fire-specific-details-to-developer-portal-a/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/07/amazon-adds-kindle-fire-specific-details-to-developer-portal-a/#comments
The Kindle Fire may not be hitting the market until November, but Amazon has already updated its Developer Portal FAQ page with an entire section devoted to its forthcoming Android tablet. On the new page, you'll find largely standard information on things like the application process and how to set up an Android SDK emulator, though there are a few more salient tidbits, as well. For instance, Amazon says it will review every app in its Appstore for Fire compatibility, as part of an automated process. Rejected apps, Amazon informs us, will include those that rely on a gyroscope, camera, WAN module, Bluetooth, microphone, GPS, or micro SD. Apps are also forbidden from using Google's Mobile Services (and in-app billing), which, if included, will have to be "gracefully" removed. In terms of actual content, Amazon has outlawed all apps that change the tablet's UI in any way (including theme- or wallpaper-based tools), as well as any that demand root access (it remains to be seen how the company will treat the root-dependent apps already in its store). Interested devs can find more information at the source link, below.

Amazon adds Kindle Fire-specific details to Developer Portal, A's your FAQ originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 07 Oct 2011 11:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonamazon app storeamazon appstoreamazon kindle fireAmazonAppstoreAmazonKindleFireandroidAndroid SDKAndroidSdkappapp storeapplicationAppStorebluetoothcameradevdeveloperfiregooglegoogle mobile servicesGoogleMobileServicesGPSgyroscopein-app billingIn-appBillingkindlekindle fireKindleFiremicro SDmicro-SDMicroSdroottabletthemeUIuser interfaceUserInterfacewallpaperWAN moduleWanModuleFri, 07 Oct 2011 11:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Samsung Galaxy Nexus spotted in the wild? (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/07/samsung-galaxy-nexus-spotted-in-the-wild-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/07/samsung-galaxy-nexus-spotted-in-the-wild-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/07/samsung-galaxy-nexus-spotted-in-the-wild-video/#comments Leaks are flying left and right as Samsung's Unpacked event approaches, with the latest coming from Romania's Mobilissimo.ro. Today, the site published new images and video of what could be the Samsung Galaxy Nexus -- the long-awaited follow-up to the Nexus S. At this point, it's difficult to say whether the device (model number "Tuna") totally jibes with the leaked specs we saw earlier this week, though its spacious display (rumored to be of 4.65-inch HD Super AMOLED stock) does look rather sharp -- the screenshots we've seen are indeed at 720 x 1280 resolution. Other than that, the handset appears to boast a 1,750mAh battery, along with a five megapixel camera and that rumored Ice Cream Sandwich UI, replete with onscreen buttons.

Compared with the Nexus S, the front-facing camera on this handset is shifted further to the right, with the proximity sensor nestled between the earpiece and the shooter, rather than all the way on the left. Its corners, meanwhile, seem less rounded than what you'll find on the earlier version, though we noticed that it does have a micro-USB port lurking at the bottom center, much like its ancestor. Of course, we'll have to wait until October 11th to see whether these shots are as good as advertised, but you can head past the break to see the purportedly authentic video or to gaze at some extra screenshots.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Continue reading Samsung Galaxy Nexus spotted in the wild? (video)

Samsung Galaxy Nexus spotted in the wild? (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 07 Oct 2011 05:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4.65 inch4.65Inch720 x 1280720X1280androidandroid 4.0Android4.0droid primeDroidPrimegalaxygalaxy nexusGalaxyNexusgoogleHD Super AmoledHdSuperAmoledice cream sandwichIceCreamSandwichICSinterfaceleakmobilepostcrossnexusnexus primeNexusPrimeoperating systemOperatingSystemOSresolutionrumorsamsungsamsung galaxysamsung galaxy nexusSamsungGalaxySamsungGalaxyNexussmartphoneUIuser interfaceUserInterfacevideoFri, 07 Oct 2011 05:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Skytex licenses ExoPC UI for Skytab S Series Windows 7 tablet]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/25/skytex-licenses-exopc-ui-for-skytab-s-series-windows-7-tablet/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/25/skytex-licenses-exopc-ui-for-skytab-s-series-windows-7-tablet/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/25/skytex-licenses-exopc-ui-for-skytab-s-series-windows-7-tablet/#comments ExoPC may not have bowled folks over with its own Slate last year (or met its own promise of some all-in-one PCs this summer), but the company did produce an unquestionably unique UI, which it's since been trying to license to others. Now it's found what appears to be its first taker in Skytex, which has adopted the custom touch layer for its new Skytab S Series Windows 7 tablet. This one packs a 9.7-inch capacitive display (as opposed to the 11.6-inch on the ExoPC itself), and the internals expectedly get a bit of an upgrade to a dual-core Atom N550 processor, which is paired with 2GB of DDR3 RAM and an as-yet-unspecified amount of storage. ExoPC also describes this particular version of the UI as a "special edition," although it's not showing off too many of the changes just yet. There's no word on a price yet either, but the tablet's expected to ship in early October.

Update: We've just heard from ExoPC, which has clarified that the company has also licensed its UI for use on the Motion Computing CL900 tablet, and confirmed that it is indeed "focusing on software only now."

Continue reading Skytex licenses ExoPC UI for Skytab S Series Windows 7 tablet

Skytex licenses ExoPC UI for Skytab S Series Windows 7 tablet originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 25 Sep 2011 07:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>exoexo pcexo uiExoPcExoUiskytabskytab s seriesSkytabSSeriesskytextabletuiwindows 7windows 7 tabletwindows tabletWindows7Windows7TabletWindowsTabletSun, 25 Sep 2011 07:13:00 EST<![CDATA[HTC Raider 4G arrives bearing South Korean LTE, looks a lot like the Holiday]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/21/htc-raider-4g-arrives-bearing-south-korean-lte-looks-a-lot-like/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/21/htc-raider-4g-arrives-bearing-south-korean-lte-looks-a-lot-like/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/21/htc-raider-4g-arrives-bearing-south-korean-lte-looks-a-lot-like/#comments
HTC has bestowed a sparkly new handset upon its South Korean customers today, with the release of the Raider 4G. Sporting a 4.5-inch qHD display, this Gingerbread-coated device is powered by a 1.5GHz dual-core processor and boasts 1GB of RAM, along with 16GB of internal storage. Graced with what appears to be HTC's Sense 3.0, the Raider also features an eight megapixel camera, 1.3 megapixel front-facing shooter and supports 1080p Full HD video recording, as well as the usual smattering of WiFi b/g/n, Bluetooth 3.0 and GPS capabilities. When connected to a South Korean LTE network, this handset can reportedly achieve downstream / upstream speeds of 100Mbps and 50Mbps uploads, respectively, with HSPA downloads clocking in at 21Mbps and uploads at 5.76Mbps. The manufacturer hasn't revealed any plans for an international release, though rumor has it that this Holiday-like device may be heading to AT&T at some point. Trot past the break for the machine-translated press release, along with an extra image.

Continue reading HTC Raider 4G arrives bearing South Korean LTE, looks a lot like the Holiday

HTC Raider 4G arrives bearing South Korean LTE, looks a lot like the Holiday originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 21 Sep 2011 08:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.3 megapixel1.3Megapixel1.5ghz1.5ghz dual-core1.5ghzDual-core1080p1080p full hd1080pFullHd4.5 inch4.5Inch4g8 megapixel8Megapixelandroidbluetooth 3.0Bluetooth3.0cameracpudisplaydownloaddownstreamdual-corefront facing cameraFrontFacingCameragingerbreadgpsHSPAhtchtc raider 4ghtc sensehtc sense uiHtcRaider4gHtcSenseHtcSenseUikorealtemobilepostminiprocessorraider 4gRaider4gRAMsmartphonesouth koreaSouthKoreaUIuploadupstreamwifi bgnWifiBgnWed, 21 Sep 2011 08:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Firefox for Honeycomb nightly builds now available for the brave beta testing few]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/14/firefox-for-honeycomb-nightly-builds-now-available-for-the-brave/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/14/firefox-for-honeycomb-nightly-builds-now-available-for-the-brave/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/14/firefox-for-honeycomb-nightly-builds-now-available-for-the-brave/#comments "Boot to Gecko" this is not, but it's still a tasty morsel for the beta testing hordes. Mozilla's mobile group, which has been hard at working translating its popular browser to Android slates, appears ready to dole out the first downloads of its UI-in-progress. The team's begun reaching out to its user community, offering up nightly builds of the tablet-based Fennec and soliciting feedback testing. If you're the type to get your hands dirty coding, you can even sign-up to help the crew debug the early stage browser and speed up its official release. Feel like taking a crack at Firefox for Honeycomb? Then hit up the source below to preview the in-development goods.

Firefox for Honeycomb nightly builds now available for the brave beta testing few originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 14 Sep 2011 20:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid 3.0Android3.0betabeta testingBetaTestingfirefoxFirefox for HoneycombFirefoxForHoneycombGoogle AndroidGoogleAndroidhoneycombmockupmockupsmozillamozilla firefoxMozillaFirefoxnightly buildsNightlyBuildsuiWed, 14 Sep 2011 20:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Google launches Flight Search service, Kayak shrugs it off (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/14/google-launches-flight-search-service-kayak-shrugs-it-off-vide/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/14/google-launches-flight-search-service-kayak-shrugs-it-off-vide/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/14/google-launches-flight-search-service-kayak-shrugs-it-off-vide/#comments
Google's DOJ-approved acquisition of ITA has finally borne fruit, in the form of Flight Search -- a new tool that aims to streamline the chaos that is online travel booking. The Mountain View contingent unveiled the interface yesterday, with an "early look" at what appears to be a fairly straightforward service. Once you enter your starting point, destination, price range and duration, a list of results will appear in ascending order of fare and duration, below a map displaying each flight's trajectory. From there, you can filter your results by airline, number of layovers or specific departure times, before booking your itinerary on the carrier's site (Google was careful to point out that flight selection and results will not be "influenced by any paid relationships"). At the moment, the service is restricted to a select group of US cities and only features round-trip economy class flights, but Google says future updates and expansions are on the way. We're eager to see how the company dresses up this relatively bare bones platform and, perhaps more importantly, how competing travel sites react to it. Kayak, for one, responded with confident nonchalance to Flight Search, explicitly describing it as an inferior product. "We're confident in our ability to compete, and we believe our flight search technology is superior," the company said, in a statement. "We recognize Google is a formidable competitor but they haven't been successful in every vertical they've entered." Let the games begin. Demo video after the break.

Continue reading Google launches Flight Search service, Kayak shrugs it off (video)

Google launches Flight Search service, Kayak shrugs it off (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 14 Sep 2011 15:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>airlinebookingdurationflightgooglegoogle flight searchgoogle travelGoogleFlightSearchGoogleTravelinterfaceITAitinerarykayaklaunchonlineplaneplane ticketPlaneTicketpricepurchasesearchsearch engineSearchEngineservicetickettraveltravel bookingTravelBookingtripUIuser interfaceUserInterfacevideovoyagewebWed, 14 Sep 2011 15:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony shows off PlayStation Vita's initial setup process and user interface (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/14/sony-shows-off-playstation-vitas-initial-setup-process-and-user/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/14/sony-shows-off-playstation-vitas-initial-setup-process-and-user/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/14/sony-shows-off-playstation-vitas-initial-setup-process-and-user/#comments
While we're still months away from seeing the PlayStation Vita show up in the stores, Sony continues to tease us with more live demonstrations here at the SCEJ press conference -- what we saw just now was a quick walkthrough of the initial setup procedure, and our first look at the interface in action. Setup is simple and predictable: select your region, create or log into your PSN account, enter your birthday -- pretty standard for today's handheld gaming devices. The UI itself looks primed to make smartphone users feel right at home, spreading a cloud of large, friendly app icons across the Vita's five-inch touchscreen.

Our hosts skipped through a few media applications, showing off a pair of movie trailers and concurrently running the device's music player and photo viewer. We didn't see it live today, but Sony suggested that cross-app multitasking is compatible with games as well, stating that a player could hop out of a game session, pop-into a Twitter app, and then jump right back into the game. We'll give you a more detailed account once we've hit the TGS show-floor. Can't wait? Peek our gallery below, or see Sony's live demo above.

Gallery: PlayStation Vita user interface

Filed under:

Sony shows off PlayStation Vita's initial setup process and user interface (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 14 Sep 2011 03:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>interfaceNGPPlayStationPlayStation VitaPlaystationVitaPS VitaPsVitaSCESCEJSonySony Computer EntertainmentSonyComputerEntertainmentTGSTGS 2011Tgs2011tokyoUIvideoVitaWed, 14 Sep 2011 03:11:00 EST<![CDATA[DirecTV's new HD UI revealed to testers, is prettier and faster than the current one]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/03/directvs-new-hd-ui-revealed-to-testers-is-prettier-and-faster/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/03/directvs-new-hd-ui-revealed-to-testers-is-prettier-and-faster/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/03/directvs-new-hd-ui-revealed-to-testers-is-prettier-and-faster/#comments While DirecTV may tossing an old standard def look on the new DirecTiVo, beta testers got a treat tonight (even better than news AMC HD is on the way) when their boxes downloaded a brand new user interface. It's the HD UI that was mentioned during the last earnings call, and brings not only fully 16x9 formatted graphics but also, according to testers, a serious performance boost to satellite receivers. If you're in the test group restart your box and punch 0,2,4,6,8 to snag the new software and have a look for yourself, but if you're on the outside looking in hit the source link for one of DBSTalk's typical thorough walkthrough PDFs.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

DirecTV's new HD UI revealed to testers, is prettier and faster than the current one originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 03 Sep 2011 01:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beta testBetaTestbreaking newscutting edgeCuttingEdgedirectvguihd uihdpostminiHdUiperformancesatellitesoftwarespeedtvuiupdateSat, 03 Sep 2011 01:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Firefox for Honeycomb UI shown off, inching closer to a tablet near you]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/30/firefox-for-honeycomb-ui-shown-off-inching-closer-to-a-tablet-n/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/30/firefox-for-honeycomb-ui-shown-off-inching-closer-to-a-tablet-n/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/30/firefox-for-honeycomb-ui-shown-off-inching-closer-to-a-tablet-n/#comments Firefox on Honeycomb The Mozilla team has been quietly toiling to bring Firefox to a mid-sized screen near you. It's already a perpetual favorite on the desktop and has made a bit of a splash on Android phones, now the group has Honeycomb tablets squarely in its crosshairs. It's still very much in the early stages of development but a few UI decisions have been made, including the choice to adhere pretty strictly to Android 3.0's minimalist appearance. In landscape mode tabs will be represented as a persistent thumbnail bar on the left, but in portrait they'll revert to the top with a more familiar appearance. The tabbed Awesome from the mobile version also returns. Check out the gallery below, as well as the source for more detail and more mockups.

Gallery: Firefox for Honeycomb UI mockups

Firefox for Honeycomb UI shown off, inching closer to a tablet near you originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 30 Aug 2011 23:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid 3.0Android3.0firefoxhoneycombminipostmockupmockupsmozillamozilla firefoxMozillaFirefoxuiTue, 30 Aug 2011 23:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft patent application details pico projected shared workspace, sounds vaguely familiar]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/27/microsoft-patent-application-details-pico-projected-shared-works/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/27/microsoft-patent-application-details-pico-projected-shared-works/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/27/microsoft-patent-application-details-pico-projected-shared-works/#comments "Combined Surface User Interface" is a cool little patent application filed by Microsoft back in 2010, detailing the creation of a shared workspace stitched together by pico projectors attached to mobile devices. Users can interface with the projected area through motion captured on a camera. If the whole thing sounds a bit familiar, don't worry, you're not crazy. Earlier in the month, a patent application from Apple surfaced carrying the "Projected Display Shared Workspaces" title, detailed a fairly similar scenario. Interestingly, the two applications were filed a week apart, Microsoft's on February 3rd, 2010, and Apple's on February 11th of that year. It's important to note, before jumping to any conclusions, of course, that the granting of patents in a case like this doesn't hinge on the filing date.

Microsoft patent application details pico projected shared workspace, sounds vaguely familiar originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 27 Aug 2011 07:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>interfacemicrosoftmobile devicesMobileDevicespatenpatent applicationPatentApplicationpico projectorPicoProjectorprojectionprojectoruiusptoSat, 27 Aug 2011 07:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft showcases new copy, move, rename functions in Windows 8 (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/24/microsoft-showcases-new-copy-move-rename-functions-in-windows/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/24/microsoft-showcases-new-copy-move-rename-functions-in-windows/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/24/microsoft-showcases-new-copy-move-rename-functions-in-windows/#comments
Windows 8 has yet to see the light of day, but new details on the forthcoming OS continue to emerge. The most recent preview once again comes courtesy of Microsoft's Building Windows 8 blog, where the company has posted new information on the software's copy, move, rename and delete functions. With the new system, all pending copy operations will appear in one dialog, where users can pause, stop and resume any job, while monitoring data transfer rates on a real-time throughput graph (pictured above). Redmond's developers have also made it easier to resolve file name collisions, with a new dialog that displays thumbnail images of source files directly alongside preexisting documents of the same name. This allows users to decide which files they'd like to copy or replace by simply hovering their mouse over the image to see its file path, or double clicking it to open in full view. For more information, check out the demo video that's waiting for you after the break.

Continue reading Microsoft showcases new copy, move, rename functions in Windows 8 (video)

Microsoft showcases new copy, move, rename functions in Windows 8 (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 24 Aug 2011 11:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conflictcopydeletedemodeveloperdialogfilefile name collisionFileNameCollisionfunctionimagemicrosoftmoveMSoperating systemOperatingSystemOSpreviewrenamethumbnailUIuser interfaceUserInterfacevideowin 8win8windows 8Windows8Wed, 24 Aug 2011 11:43:00 EST<![CDATA[Gemini-Scout robot can scope out mining accidents, may save lives (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/22/gemini-scout-robot-can-scope-out-mining-accidents-may-save-live/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/22/gemini-scout-robot-can-scope-out-mining-accidents-may-save-live/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/22/gemini-scout-robot-can-scope-out-mining-accidents-may-save-live/#comments
We've seen robots capable of entering hazardous nuclear plants and dangerous buildings, but engineers at Sandia Labs have now unveiled a new rescue bot that's explicitly designed to enter and investigate collapsed mines, as well. Measuring just two feet tall and less than four feet in length, the Gemini-Scout Mine Rescue Robot packs a set of gas sensors, a thermal camera and a two-way radio, allowing it to detect dangerous underground materials and relay critical information to above-ground rescue workers. Its can also navigate across rocky terrain, tight quarters, or flooded tunnels, and is sturdy enough to carry food and other supplies to trapped miners. Operators, meanwhile, can manipulate the Gemini-Scout using only an Xbox 360 controller, which was incorporated into the system on the strength of its intuitive design and UI. Sandia's engineers demoed their bot last week in DC and are hoping to begin licensing it to rescue agencies by the end of next year. Crawl past the break for a video of their creation, along with a full press release.

Continue reading Gemini-Scout robot can scope out mining accidents, may save lives (video)

Gemini-Scout robot can scope out mining accidents, may save lives (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 22 Aug 2011 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameracollapsed mineCollapsedMinecontrollerdisasteremergencygas electric hybridGasElectricHybridgeminigemini scoutgemini scout mine rescue robotgemini-scoutGeminiScoutGeminiScoutMineRescueRobothazardousminemine rescueMineRescueminingremote controlremote controlledRemoteControlRemoteControlledrescuerobotsandiasandia labsSandiaLabssensorthermal cameraThermalCameraUIvideowaterproofxboxxbox 360Xbox360Mon, 22 Aug 2011 08:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Symbian Anna now available for download on Nokia N8, E7, C7 and C6-01]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/18/symbian-anna-now-available-for-download-on-nokia-n8-e7-c7-and/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/18/symbian-anna-now-available-for-download-on-nokia-n8-e7-c7-and/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/18/symbian-anna-now-available-for-download-on-nokia-n8-e7-c7-and/#comments Just a day after popping up on NaviFirm, Nokia's Symbian Anna has finally arrived for download, right on schedule. Available for N8, E7, C7 and C6-01 users, the new OS brings a fresh new UI and a virtual portrait QWERTY keypad to Symbian smartphones, along with split-screen messaging, richer maps and speedier browsing. The update also brings NFC capabilities to the C7, in particular, allowing users to share contacts, photos and other goodies by simply tapping their handsets together. If you're interested in upgrading, you can download Anna using the latest version of Ovi Suite (3.1.1), or with an OTA update, though availability and method of delivery vary from market to market. Find more information in the full PR, after the break.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Continue reading Symbian Anna now available for download on Nokia N8, E7, C7 and C6-01

Symbian Anna now available for download on Nokia N8, E7, C7 and C6-01 originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 18 Aug 2011 05:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>annabrowserc6-01c7downloade7keyboardmapsmessagingmobilemobilepostcrossmobilepostminin8NFCnokiaNokia C6-01nokia c7nokia e7nokia n8NokiaC6-01NokiaC7NokiaE7NokiaN8OSOTAovi suiteOviSuiteqwertysmartphonesoftwaresplit screenSplitScreensymbiansymbian annaSymbianAnnaUIupdateuser interfaceUserInterfaceThu, 18 Aug 2011 05:48:00 EST<![CDATA[HTC Bliss spotted frolicking in the blurry wild?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/16/htc-bliss-spotted-frolicking-in-the-blurry-wild/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/16/htc-bliss-spotted-frolicking-in-the-blurry-wild/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/16/htc-bliss-spotted-frolicking-in-the-blurry-wild/#comments
We haven't heard much about the HTC Bliss since it popped up on a Verizon roadmap earlier this month, but the folks over at PocketNow have obtained photos of what could be the handset's first public appearance. The so-called "women only" smartphone, which recently passed through the FCC, is rumored to run on a 800MHz single-core processor and will reportedly sport a new version of HTC's Sense UI. It's also expected to run Android 2.3 and to rock a GSM 900MHz radio, though, as you can tell, it's a little difficult to glean any of that from the above blurry images. No word yet on whether it'll launch in September, as expected, or whether it'll look a bit more feminine when it does, but we'll keep you posted.

HTC Bliss spotted frolicking in the blurry wild? originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 16 Aug 2011 11:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>800MHz900mhzandroidandroid 2.3Android2.3blissgsmGSM 900MHzGsm900mhzhandsethtchtc blisshtc sensehtc sense uiHtcBlissHtcSenseHtcSenseUileakphonephotosingle coresingle-coreSingleCoresmartphoneuiuser interfaceUserInterfacewildwomenTue, 16 Aug 2011 11:09:00 EST