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[Vizio reveals $3,499 price for its 58-inch ultrawidescreen HDTV]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/01/vizio-ultrawidescreen-58-inch-3499/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/01/vizio-ultrawidescreen-58-inch-3499/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/01/vizio-ultrawidescreen-58-inch-3499/#comments

We were told at CES last month to expect Vizio's ultrawidescreen LCDs would hit the market sooner rather than later, now we know how it will fit into our budgets, even if we're not sure how the aspect ratio will fit in our living rooms. Similar to the way its first Theater 3D TVs popped up last year, the XVT 3D CinemaWide product page reveals a 58-inch model (50- and 71-inchers are also planned) sporting its trademark 21:9 aspect ratio (compared to a traditional HDTV's 16:9) and 2560x1080 resolution will start at $3,499. It also has an array of specs, measuring the 120Hz Edge LED lit screen at 56.7-inches wide by 29-inches high and 1.8-inches deep. Just as we saw when they were first announced at CES 2011, Vizio upscales Blu-ray and other wider-than-widescreen sources to fill the screen without those black bars we've become accustomed to. If you're watching standard HD programming, the extra space alongside can accommodate tiles for Yahoo! Widgets pulling information from the internet without blocking the picture at all. Check our gallery below for a better look and a demo video after the break, we'll keep an ear to the ground to find out when and where these displays might hit the market first.

Update: Vizio tells USA Today to expect this set to launch ahead of March Madness -- the better to manage our completely-useless-by-the-Sweet-16-because-Gonzaga-won-again brackets on.
[Thanks, chilipalm]

Continue reading Vizio reveals $3,499 price for its 58-inch ultrawidescreen HDTV

Vizio reveals $3,499 price for its 58-inch ultrawidescreen HDTV originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 01 Feb 2012 20:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>21:93d3d tv3dTv58-inchaspect ratioAspectRatiocinema wideCinemaWideedge litedge lit ledEdgeLitEdgeLitLedhdpostcrosshdtvlcdledpassive 3dPassive3dpricerazor ledRazorLedtheater 3dTheater3dultra widescreenUltraWidescreenvideoviziowidgetsXVT3D580CMWed, 01 Feb 2012 20:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Yahoo! Connected TV setups draw web, TV closer in 2012 with mobile apps, IntoNow]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/09/yahoo-widgets-intonow-apps/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/09/yahoo-widgets-intonow-apps/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/09/yahoo-widgets-intonow-apps/#commentsWhile Google moves and Apple rumors have attracted most internet TV hype, Yahoo has been busy moving units, racking up 8 million widget TVs in the market and over a million active users every month. The broadcast interactivity it demonstrated at least year's show is already live on the 2011 lineup of Sony Bravias and will launch on the 2012 models soon, with access to trivia, interactive ads and the like. Last year we were also shown an iPad remote, which the company promises to deliver alongside apps for iPhone and Android devices in the first quarter of this year that can launch apps, control them and enter text. Finally, this year we'll also see the fruits of its IntoNow purchase, as the technology will be plugged into Yahoo's backend and allow sets to pull in relevant internet content alongside whatever is being watched. Hang on for our hands-on impressions and more details, and check out the press release after the break.

Yahoo! Connected TV setups draw web, TV closer in 2012 with mobile apps, IntoNow originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 09 Jan 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidcesces 2012Ces2012connected tvConnectedTvhdpostcrossinternetintonowipad appIpadAppiphone appIphoneAppwidgetsyahooyahoo widgetsYahooWidgetsMon, 09 Jan 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ice Cream Sandwich widgets leak out ahead of official launch]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/18/ice-cream-sandwich-widgets-leak-out-ahead-of-official-launch/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/18/ice-cream-sandwich-widgets-leak-out-ahead-of-official-launch/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/18/ice-cream-sandwich-widgets-leak-out-ahead-of-official-launch/#comments We expect to be hearing plenty more about Ice Cream Sandwich before the day is out, but that doesn't mean there isn't still room for some last-minute leaks. We've already seen a couple of updated apps slip out, and we now also have what appears to be our first look at Google's refreshed widgets for the new OS. Those include both Gmail and Calendar, as well one for your non-Gmail email, all of which boast a similar appearance that's been further streamlined from their Honeycomb counterparts. As Android Police notes, there's curiously no labels in the Gmail widget, although we'd assume that's just due to the particular messages being displayed (we hope so, at least). Hit the source link below for a look at the rest.

Ice Cream Sandwich widgets leak out ahead of official launch originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 18 Oct 2011 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid 4.0Android4.0gmailgoogleice cream sandwichIceCreamSandwichICSmobilepostcrosswidgetwidgetsTue, 18 Oct 2011 15:01:00 EST<![CDATA[HTC Sense 3.5 beta screenshots leak, bring tears of joy to weather widget lovers]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/25/htc-sense-3-5-beta-screenshots-leak-bring-tears-of-joy-to-weath/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/25/htc-sense-3-5-beta-screenshots-leak-bring-tears-of-joy-to-weath/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/25/htc-sense-3-5-beta-screenshots-leak-bring-tears-of-joy-to-weath/#comments
Now that you've seen high-quality images of the HTC Bliss with the screen turned off, are you curious to see what it looks like when it's on? The same folks at XDA.cn who got hands-on time with the Bliss have now come forth with possible screenshots showing the phone is indeed running on a beta version of Sense UI 3.5. What's new here? Even though the lock screen uses the same ring-style unlocking feature as its predecessor, it appears that the new UI will feature two dedicated buttons at the bottom of the home panel -- for the app tray on the left and phone on the right -- and refreshed widgets (including a larger weather panel), among other minor changes. Word also has it that HTC is removing hardware requirements that restricted version 3.0 to the company's highest-end devices, which gives hope to millions of Sense users still on an older, more streamlined UI. More screenshots can be found at the source link.

HTC Sense 3.5 beta screenshots leak, bring tears of joy to weather widget lovers originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 25 Aug 2011 16:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid 2.3Android2.3betablissdual-corehardwarehtchtc blisshtc sensehtc sense uiHtcBlissHtcSenseHtcSenseUileakleaksmobilepostminiscreenshotssensesense 3.5sense uiSense3.5SenseUisingle-coreweatherwidgetwidgetsThu, 25 Aug 2011 16:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Nokia announces Symbian Belle alongside three new devices]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/24/nokia-announces-symbian-belle-running-on-three-new-devices/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/24/nokia-announces-symbian-belle-running-on-three-new-devices/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/24/nokia-announces-symbian-belle-running-on-three-new-devices/#comments True to Monday's teaser, Nokia unveiled its latest update to the Symbian OS as well as a few new devices. Belle is indeed coming, and it's heading to the Nokia 700, 701 and 600 in the third quarter of this year. The successor to Anna brings NFC sharing and pairing functionality to the table, along with three additional home screens (bumped up to six), a dynamic lock screen, live widgets in five different sizes, and a pull-down taskbar and notification menu. Fortunately, the new handsets announced today aren't the only beneficiaries of the upgrade: the N8, E6, E7, X7, C7, C6-01 and Oro will all get Belle at a yet-unknown later date. Join us after the break as we go more into detail on the three phones announced today, along with a video and press release.

Gallery: Nokia 700, 701 and 600


Continue reading Nokia announces Symbian Belle alongside three new devices

Nokia announces Symbian Belle alongside three new devices originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 24 Aug 2011 08:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>600700701amoledannabellecindyclearblackhelenips lcdIpsLcdlaunchledlive widgetsLiveWidgetsmobilepostcrossnear field communicationnear field communicationsNearFieldCommunicationNearFieldCommunicationsnfcnokianokia 600nokia 700nokia 701nokia cindynokia helennokia zetaNokia600Nokia700Nokia701NokiaCindyNokiaHelenNokiaZetareleasesymbian annasymbian belleSymbianAnnaSymbianBellevideowidgetszetaWed, 24 Aug 2011 08:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Nokia RM-670 screen grabs reveal Symbian Belle in all her glory]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/01/nokia-rm-670-screen-grabs-reveal-symbian-belle-in-all-her-glory/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/01/nokia-rm-670-screen-grabs-reveal-symbian-belle-in-all-her-glory/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/01/nokia-rm-670-screen-grabs-reveal-symbian-belle-in-all-her-glory/#comments We caught a glimpse of Nokia's new Symbian Belle OS on some RM-670 spy shots a month ago, but back then we were distracted by the handset's impressive hardware. As if to correct our focus, the attention-seeking successor to Symbian Anna has just revealed herself again in a batch of leaked screen grabs, courtesy of NokiaBlog.ro. The pics reveal different-sized widgets in a range of different positions, suggesting that this OS offers a lot more flexibility in customizing home screens. There's also an Android-esque notifications bar, which gives quick access to core settings too. We don't know how final these revisions are, or how effective they'll be in restoring Symbian's waning popularity when the new OS finally arrives, but there's an encouraging hint of that well-executed simplicity that Nokia does so well. Click the source link below for the full Romanian fandango.

[Thanks, Clinton]

Nokia RM-670 screen grabs reveal Symbian Belle in all her glory originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 01 Aug 2011 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>leakmobileMobile OSMobileOsNokiaOSRM-670SymbianSymbian BelleSymbian OSSymbianBelleSymbianOswidgetsZetaMon, 01 Aug 2011 10:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Box pics, price and features leak out for the Best Buy Insignia cTV with TiVo]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/27/box-pics-price-and-features-leak-out-for-the-best-buy-insignia/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/27/box-pics-price-and-features-leak-out-for-the-best-buy-insignia/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/27/box-pics-price-and-features-leak-out-for-the-best-buy-insignia/#comments As we close in on the purported release date for Best Buy's Insignia cTV, more details have come to light about the TiVo menu system (but not DVR) powered HDTV. Zatz Not Funny reports the 32- and 42-inch models available initially will cost $599 and $999, respectively, with a pretty standard list of features including built-in 802.11n WiFi, 4 HDMI ports, etc. More interesting however are these box shots that reveal unannounced apps on the way including Chumby widgets -- destined to replace the late FrameChannel? -- as well as Twitter and Facebook, which were integrated via the iPad app but not the box, yet. So far we still don't know for sure if these TVs will be able to serve as multiroom extenders and stream video from a TiVo Premiere (whenever TiVo brings the feature back) but until there's some official word you can get more pictures and details at the source below.

Box pics, price and features leak out for the Best Buy Insignia cTV with TiVo originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 27 Jul 2011 18:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1080p31-inch42-inchappsbest buyBestBuychumbychumby widgetsChumbyWidgetsctvfacebookhdtvinsignialcdmultiroomtivotivo premiereTivoPremieretwitterwidgetsWed, 27 Jul 2011 18:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Yahoo! Connected TV watches with you, delivers a more personal ad experience]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/27/yahoo-connected-tv-watches-with-you-delivers-a-more-personal-a/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/27/yahoo-connected-tv-watches-with-you-delivers-a-more-personal-a/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/27/yahoo-connected-tv-watches-with-you-delivers-a-more-personal-a/#comments For a medium heavily ridiculed for its zombie-making capabilities, television is certainly taking on more of an active role courtesy of Yahoo! Connected TV. Coming later this year to select Sony and Toshiba models, the interactive software that's already in eight million homes gains two new features destined to either creep you out, or snag you a twofer on those wings -- broadcast interactivity, and device control. While the latter enhancement merely transforms your smartphone or tablet into an extended remote, it's the former that'll turn your TV choices into a game of peeping Tom, delivering ads custom-fit for you. But the old, yodeling tech giant's not stopping there -- the company also plans to trot out an app store by the years' end, which is currently in pilot testing with Ford and HSN (among others). If widget-based ads are your thing, you might want to hold off until the big manufacturer roll-out next year, or you could always consider that Google option. Brain-rot, please meet the tech loop.

Yahoo! Connected TV watches with you, delivers a more personal ad experience originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 27 Jun 2011 07:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>connected tvconnected tvsConnectedTvConnectedTvsremoteremote appRemoteAppsonySony TVSonyTvToshibaToshiba TVToshibaTvvideowidgetsyahooyahoo connected tvYahoo Connected TV Storeyahoo widgetsYahooConnectedTvYahooConnectedTvStoreYahooWidgetsMon, 27 Jun 2011 07:59:00 EST<![CDATA[FrameChannel is going away and so is its suite of TiVo widgets]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/16/framechannel-is-going-away/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/16/framechannel-is-going-away/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/16/framechannel-is-going-away/#comments When TiVo launched the Premiere DVR it promised "nearly 1,000 content widgets" thanks to a partnership with FrameChannel, but those will soon disappear. According to its website FrameChannel will shut down at the end of the month due to financial trouble, while Stephen Mack of TiVo says the DVR company is "looking into" replacements for the service that provided weather, news, custom RSS feeds, and stock market data. It may not be a major loss for most however, since the general consensus seems to be that FrameChannel wasn't that great. All the same, a few of you may miss it when its gone, and take note of the unfortunate potential downside of dealing with cloud based services.

[Thanks, Joe & Dave Zatz]

Continue reading FrameChannel is going away and so is its suite of TiVo widgets

FrameChannel is going away and so is its suite of TiVo widgets originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 16 Jun 2011 20:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsframechannelhdshutdowntivotivo premiereTivoPremierewidgetsThu, 16 Jun 2011 20:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Vizio dangles upcoming YouTube app for its Blu-ray players]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/24/vizio-dangles-upcoming-youtube-app-for-its-blu-ray-players/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/24/vizio-dangles-upcoming-youtube-app-for-its-blu-ray-players/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/24/vizio-dangles-upcoming-youtube-app-for-its-blu-ray-players/#comments Vizio posted a teaser on its Facebook page of new app updates for its Vizio Internet Apps platform, including this YouTube app that will come to the VBR122 and VBR133 series Blu-ray players first. Amazon VOD and web videos are apparently also on deck, but judging from the comments, owners of certain model TVs are still waiting for updates to flick on their USB connectivity, Hulu Plus, and other apps. These should all come down as automatic updates whenever they launch, let us know if there's any other widgets you'd like us to keep an eye out for.

Vizio dangles upcoming YouTube app for its Blu-ray players originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 24 May 2011 22:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>connected tvConnectedTvhdvbr122vbr133viaviziovizio internet appsVizioInternetAppswidgetsyahoo widgetsYahooWidgetsyoutubeTue, 24 May 2011 22:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Android 3.1 on the Motorola Xoom: hands-on (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/13/android-3-1-on-the-motorola-xoom-hands-on-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/13/android-3-1-on-the-motorola-xoom-hands-on-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/13/android-3-1-on-the-motorola-xoom-hands-on-video/#comments Android 3.1 That Android 3.1 update that Google announced during I/O is slowly rolling out to 3G Xoom owners as we speak. How'd we know such a thing? Why, it just landed on our in-house Xoom, of course! Most of the changes to Honeycomb are happening under the hood -- better HTML5 support, faster performance, and USB host functionality for connecting peripherals like game controllers and mice -- but there are some improvements that will be a lot more obvious to the user. Perhaps our favorite is the addition of resizable widgets. For the moment only the email and Gmail inbox, calendar and bookmarks widgets can be stretched or shrunk, but we're sure others will follow. We're particularly appreciative of the expandable calendar widget, which always felt a tad cramped. The task switcher also received a much requested upgrade and now lets you scroll through your last 18 launched apps, instead of just the five most recent. Lastly, the Android Market now offers movie rentals, alongside books and apps, which range in price from $1.99 to $4.99 for 24 hours of playback. There isn't a ton of revolutionary stuff going on here, but it's certainly a welcome and worthwhile update. Check out the video after the break to see Android 3.1 in action.

Continue reading Android 3.1 on the Motorola Xoom: hands-on (video)

Android 3.1 on the Motorola Xoom: hands-on (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 13 May 2011 19:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid 3.1android marketAndroid3.1AndroidMarketgooglegoogle ioGoogleIohands onhands-onHandsOnhoneycombmotorolamotorola xoomMotorolaXoommovie rentalsMovieRentalsrentalstablettabletsupdateupgradeusbUSB hostUsbHostvideowidgetsxoomFri, 13 May 2011 19:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Yahoo buys TV companion app developer IntoNow and its database of sounds]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/25/yahoo-buys-tv-companion-app-developer-intonow-and-its-database-o/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/25/yahoo-buys-tv-companion-app-developer-intonow-and-its-database-o/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/25/yahoo-buys-tv-companion-app-developer-intonow-and-its-database-o/#comments Earlier this year IntoNow launched its iPhone app that could identify what TV show you were watching by the audio Shazam-style and then share it with others over Facebook or Twitter, pull in additional information, or add the DVD to your Netflix queue. Now, Yahoo has purchased the company and according to the press release (after the break) wants to integrate its SoundPrint tech with its existing services including the Connected TV platform. As NewTeeVee suggests, this could tie-in nicely with its existing plans to use audio watermarks to identify advertisements and display additional info on screen or work with a companion app, both of which it demonstrated at CES. That database of sounds reportedly stretches back over five years and is continually being updated, which could give a major lift to Yahoo over other smart TV platforms that goes far beyond just check-ins and badges.

Continue reading Yahoo buys TV companion app developer IntoNow and its database of sounds

Yahoo buys TV companion app developer IntoNow and its database of sounds originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 25 Apr 2011 17:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audio recognitionAudioRecognitioncheck inCheckIncompanion appCompanionAppconnected tvConnectedTvintonowsound printSoundPrinttvwidgetsyahooyahoo connected tvYahooConnectedTvMon, 25 Apr 2011 17:09:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony rolling out Netflix, Yahoo updates; celebrates internet on TV with a new ad]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/15/sony-rolling-out-netflix-yahoo-updates-and-celebrates-internet/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/15/sony-rolling-out-netflix-yahoo-updates-and-celebrates-internet/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/15/sony-rolling-out-netflix-yahoo-updates-and-celebrates-internet/#comments If you access Netflix on your Sony TV (or Blu-ray player or Streaming Player) you'll probably notice it's been updated with the new HTML5 based UI that allows for search of the entire catalog, among other things. A press release issued recently also mentions Sony will be delivering the Yahoo Connected TV store when it launches "later this spring" selling paid apps through its widget powered TVs. Just to make sure people get the message, Sony's official blog just posted this new ad, embedded above, focusing on its TV products from 1960 on and how it can bring music, movies and apps over the internet in HD (and 3D) to the living room.Give it a peek and let us know if you agree with the vision, the press release about all the new features is after the break.

Continue reading Sony rolling out Netflix, Yahoo updates; celebrates internet on TV with a new ad

Sony rolling out Netflix, Yahoo updates; celebrates internet on TV with a new ad originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 15 Apr 2011 16:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dadadvertisementappshdinternet tvInternetTvnetflixsonysony braviaSonyBraviastreamingtv spotTvSpotwatch instantlyWatchInstantlywidgetsyahooyahoo connected tv storeyahoo widgetsYahooConnectedTvStoreYahooWidgetsFri, 15 Apr 2011 16:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Chumby 8 gets reviewed, dubbed 'best and biggest Chumby yet']]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/12/chumby-8-gets-reviewed-dubbed-best-and-biggest-chumby-yet/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/12/chumby-8-gets-reviewed-dubbed-best-and-biggest-chumby-yet/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/12/chumby-8-gets-reviewed-dubbed-best-and-biggest-chumby-yet/#commentsThe Chumby has never exactly been a device for everyone, and that's not likely to change with the new Chumby 8 that's recently started shipping. Those that do want a Chumby, however, aren't likely to be disappointed by the new 8-inch model. According to CNET's review of the device, the Chumby 8 is simply the "best and biggest Chumby yet," with the larger display and additional USB ports making it better suited for use as a photo frame or media player, while the plethora of apps available make it as versatile as ever. Of course, it is still a Chumby, which CNET notes makes for an increasingly difficult sell in a world filled with tablets, smartphones, and widget-filled TVs. Hit up the source link below for the full review.

Chumby 8 gets reviewed, dubbed 'best and biggest Chumby yet' originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 12 Apr 2011 19:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chumbychumby 8chumby industriesChumby8ChumbyIndustriesglanceablewidgetwidgetsTue, 12 Apr 2011 19:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Android Honeycomb / Motorola Xoom hands-ons: widgets, Grocery IQ, and Monster Madness (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/02/android-honeycomb-motorola-xoom-hands-ons-widgets-grocery-iq/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/02/android-honeycomb-motorola-xoom-hands-ons-widgets-grocery-iq/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/02/android-honeycomb-motorola-xoom-hands-ons-widgets-grocery-iq/#comments Fully-functional Xooms with complete (or seemingly complete) builds of Honeycomb are out in force here at Google's event in Mountain View today, and a bunch of partners are hanging out to demonstrate the tablet apps they've been working on. We checked out both Monster Madness -- a game that's been on Xbox 360 and PS3 for some time -- and Grocery IQ, both of which obviously bring very different experiences to the table (unless you consider grocery shopping "a game," which some of us admittedly do).

Though we thought we detected some stuttering and lag from Monster Madness when it was demoed on stage, the experience up close and in person was much smoother -- definitely 100 percent playable. We double-checked and confirmed that the tablet game is a 100 percent content port from the console games, you're not missing anything here. It features three control modes that let you toggle between two on-screen analog sticks, one stick, and a fully accelerometer-based mode that most users probably won't consider practical because you've got to tilt the screen too much. Interestingly, the developer noted that there's a low-res mode that he actually toggled in an area of the game with a lot of water because it tends to slow down, despite the fact that it's running on Unreal Engine and is fully optimized for multiple cores. Could it be that game studios are already pushing the limits of this hardware from day one?

Moving onto Grocery IQ, it's basically a fancy shopping list with coupons -- it's already on both iOS and Android phones, and odds are good you already know what it is. What was really interesting, though, was that we got a full demo of "application fragment" layout switching between landscape and portrait views (the app has a two-pane view for tablets) and the process of adding and removing widgets. As with some of the first-party widgets we've seen, Grocery IQ seems to have done a good job making its widgets visually rich and engaging -- particularly the coupon browser, which appears as a stack of rotating coupons with color graphics. See videos of both products after the break!

Continue reading Android Honeycomb / Motorola Xoom hands-ons: widgets, Grocery IQ, and Monster Madness (video)

Android Honeycomb / Motorola Xoom hands-ons: widgets, Grocery IQ, and Monster Madness (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 02 Feb 2011 14:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid 3.0Android3.0grocery iqGroceryIqhands-onhoneycombmonster madnessMonsterMadnessvideowidgetwidgetsxoomWed, 02 Feb 2011 14:52:00 EST<![CDATA[Yahoo! Connected TV Widgets shows off live TV tie-ins, iPad remote and D-Link add-on (update: video!)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/05/yahoo-connected-tv-widgets-shows-off-live-tv-tie-ins-ipad-remo/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/05/yahoo-connected-tv-widgets-shows-off-live-tv-tie-ins-ipad-remo/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/05/yahoo-connected-tv-widgets-shows-off-live-tv-tie-ins-ipad-remo/#comments Just a couple of years after its initial debut, Yahoo's Connected TV platform is finally ready to escape the TV, among other things. One surprise shown off tonight during the pre-CES Digital Experience event is a new D-Link box that overlays the widgets on any video signal to any display by way of HDMI passthrough. Also on display are prototype remote apps for Android and iPad, both could act as a remote control, while the tablet app could also search or browse for additional programming and share videos straight to the TV Airplay-style.

On the paying bills end of things however, this year's big announcement is the ability to tie in with live TV broadcasts, while the company didn't reveal what information keyed the system, it figure out if a TV program or ad being watched is a compatible one and pop up prompts accordingly. While that could lead to even more annoying ads for consumers, there's at least a few interesting applications like the one we saw voting on potential winners of a boxing match as it starts on Showtime, one of the initial partners along with CBS, ABC, Showtime, HSN, Ford and Mattel. Check out the press release after the break, we should have a video of the demo up shortly.

Gallery: Yahoo! Connected TV interactivity

Continue reading Yahoo! Connected TV Widgets shows off live TV tie-ins, iPad remote and D-Link add-on (update: video!)

Yahoo! Connected TV Widgets shows off live TV tie-ins, iPad remote and D-Link add-on (update: video!) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 05 Jan 2011 23:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidcesces 2011ces2011connected tvConnectedTvipadipad companion remoteIpadCompanionRemoteremoteremote appRemoteAppvideowidgetsyahooyahoo connected tvyahoo widgetsYahooConnectedTvYahooWidgetsWed, 05 Jan 2011 23:08:00 EST<![CDATA[Vizio shows off its full 2011 HDTV lineup: ultrawidescreen, 3D, Google TV, widgets & all]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/04/vizio-shows-off-its-full-2010-lineup-ultrawidescreen-3d-googl/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/04/vizio-shows-off-its-full-2010-lineup-ultrawidescreen-3d-googl/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/04/vizio-shows-off-its-full-2010-lineup-ultrawidescreen-3d-googl/#comments No more dribs and drabs of information leaking out as Vizio has finally listed its entire 2011 LCD lineup, again featuring LED back & edge lighting across all models. That includes two ultrawidescreen 21:9 Cinema models in its Theater 3D line in 50- and 58-inch sizes, two VIA Plus TVs with Google TV in the XVT3D476SP and XVT3D556SP, and continuation of its existing Yahoo! Widgets based Vizio Internet Apps features including WiFi and Bluetooth QWERTY remote across TVs sized 22-inches and above. Check the press release after the break for all the models and what they offer, perhaps wisely there's no detailed information about when and for how much they'll be available just yet, so we'll still have to speculate about which models will represent the sub-$300 3D portion of the lineup.

Continue reading Vizio shows off its full 2011 HDTV lineup: ultrawidescreen, 3D, Google TV, widgets & all

Vizio shows off its full 2011 HDTV lineup: ultrawidescreen, 3D, Google TV, widgets & all originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 04 Jan 2011 08:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>219breaking newsBreakingNewscesces 2011ces2011cinemagoogle tvGoogleTvlcdledsrstheater 3dTheater3dultrawidescreenviavia plusViaPlusviziowidgetsxvtTue, 04 Jan 2011 08:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Paul Allen files amended complaint, points out exactly where patent infringement is hiding]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/29/paul-allen-files-amended-complaint-points-out-exactly-where-pat/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/29/paul-allen-files-amended-complaint-points-out-exactly-where-pat/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/29/paul-allen-files-amended-complaint-points-out-exactly-where-pat/#comments Left with just two weeks to explain exactly how seven of the web's biggest properties (and three office supply chains) violated his company Interval's patents, Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen figured out a plan -- Intervals' lawyers are drawing big, colored boxes around large swaths of the allegedly infringing websites' real estate. In all seriousness, a lot of companies may owe Allen a lot of money if Interval truly has a case, because Interval claims to have patented no less than the ability for a website to take a user-selected piece of content and suggest other related pieces of content that might be of interest. Oh, and it's also apparently patented pop-ups and widgets, as most anything that displays information "in an unobtrusive manner that occupies the peripheral attention of the user" is getting the same treatment. Hilariously, it appears that the co-founder of Microsoft didn't provide his lawyers with basic scanning technology, because the PDF of the exhibits they uploaded to the court's web site is just epically bad -- check out everything they say infringes in the gallery below.

Disclaimer: We should note that AOL is among the companies being sued by Allen and Interval, and that Engadget is owned by AOL. So you know, just think about that a bunch, or something.

Gallery: Paul Allen vs. the world: the exhibits

Paul Allen files amended complaint, points out exactly where patent infringement is hiding originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 29 Dec 2010 14:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allenaolappleebayfacebookgoogleintellectual propertyIntellectualPropertyintervalinterval researchIntervalResearchlawsuitmicrosoftnetflixpatentpatent infringementpatent infringement lawsuitpatent violationsPatentInfringementPatentInfringementLawsuitpatentsPatentViolationspaul allenPaulAllenwidgetwidgetsyoutubeWed, 29 Dec 2010 14:56:00 EST<![CDATA[ESPN launches ScoreCenter for connected TVs on Samsung's App Store - Update: Better screenshots]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/20/espn-launches-scorecenter-for-connected-tvs-on-samsung-app-store/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/20/espn-launches-scorecenter-for-connected-tvs-on-samsung-app-store/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/20/espn-launches-scorecenter-for-connected-tvs-on-samsung-app-store/#comments ESPN's ScoreCenter app has been a popular one on Android and iOS devices, but today the broadcaster has taken another step by bringing it to connected TVs. Samsung enabled TVs will be the first to see it in the Samsung App Store, and use it to pull up scoreboards, schedules and live game details along the top, bottom or sides of the screen. According to AdAge, it had planned to bring TV apps using EBIF to market years ago, but delays mean this is the first one to see the light of day. No word on which connected TV will see ScoreCenter next, but for now you can check out a demo video at the source link.

Update: and now we have some higher res screenshots courtesy of ESPN, check out the first above and another one after the break.

Continue reading ESPN launches ScoreCenter for connected TVs on Samsung's App Store - Update: Better screenshots

ESPN launches ScoreCenter for connected TVs on Samsung's App Store - Update: Better screenshots originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Dec 2010 18:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsconnected tvConnectedTvespnespn scorecenterEspnScorecenterexpire-images:2011-1-19hdinternetsamsung app storesamsung appsSamsungAppsSamsungAppStorescorecentersportswidgetsMon, 20 Dec 2010 18:41:00 EST<![CDATA[VIZIO launches latest XVT series HDTVs, new Blu-ray players with 3D today]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/17/vizio-launches-latest-xvt-series-hdtvs-new-blu-ray-players-with/http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/17/vizio-launches-latest-xvt-series-hdtvs-new-blu-ray-players-with/http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/17/vizio-launches-latest-xvt-series-hdtvs-new-blu-ray-players-with/#comments Say hello to the new VIZIO XVT 3D series, while the XVT Pro line announced earlier this year (and that 72-inch model we were drooling over) were not to be, these 42-, 47- and 55-inch HDTVs are real and on sale today through Amazon, Sam's Club and Target's online shops and should be on shelves later this month. Features like the number of LED backlighting zones (for the 47- and 55-, the 42-inch features edge LED lighting), claimed contrast ratio, WiFi N and VIZIO Internet Apps are consistent with existing models, so the big addition this time around is 480Hz refresh rate and obviously, 3D readiness (active shutter glasses not included). VIZIO's also announced two new 3D compatible Blu-ray players to match for $189, plus a new router and some high priced HDMI cables to fill out the lineup. Full specs and prices are in the press release after the break, but with a premium of $300-$400 on Amazon over the award winning 2D-only XVT3SV lineup (we have one in for review, hint: it's excellent), most will probably want to wait for some kind of package deal unless there's a copy of NBA 2K11 3D or Black Ops burning a hole in their console right now.

Update: It appears VIZIO's made one other change since its initial 3D announcement, including RealD technology and using their glasses. We asked if these glasses will be compatible with those from other manufacturers but haven't gotten an answer to that question yet.

Continue reading VIZIO launches latest XVT series HDTVs, new Blu-ray players with 3D today

VIZIO launches latest XVT series HDTVs, new Blu-ray players with 3D today originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 17 Nov 2010 09:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dtvedge litedge lit ledEdgeLitEdgeLitLedled backlightingLedBacklightingvbr333vbr334vizviziovizio internet appsVizioInternetAppswidgetsXVTxvt 3dXvt3dXVT3D424SVXVT3D474SVXVT3D554SVxwr100Wed, 17 Nov 2010 09:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Insignia's Infocast gains a web browser, a little dignity in the process]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/20/insignias-infocast-gains-a-web-browser-a-little-dignity-in-the/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/20/insignias-infocast-gains-a-web-browser-a-little-dignity-in-the/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/20/insignias-infocast-gains-a-web-browser-a-little-dignity-in-the/#comments
Nah, it's not an officially supported browser, but it's a browser nonetheless. Chumby founder Andrew Huang has recently posted up instructions (along with a prebuilt file for those stretched thin) on how to port a WebKit-based browser onto Best Buy's self-proclaimed Internet Media Device. Currently, the browser requires a USB keyboard for text input, though the touch panel still functions just fine when it comes to window management / navigation. Hit the links below if you're looking for good reason to dust your Infocast off and put it to better use. Or don't, and just become more bitter at the world around you for no good reason at all. Your choice.

Insignia's Infocast gains a web browser, a little dignity in the process originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Sep 2010 23:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserchumbydiyhackinfocastInsigniaInsignia infocastInsigniaInfocastinternetinternet media displayInternetMediaDisplaymodqtSilvermoonsoftwareweb browserWebBrowserwebkitwidgetwidgetsMon, 20 Sep 2010 23:18:00 EST<![CDATA[Toshiba brings WX800 and VX700 HDTVs stateside, BDX3000 3D Blu-ray player this month]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/15/toshiba-brings-wx800-and-vx700-hdtvs-stateside-bdx3000-3d-blu-r/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/15/toshiba-brings-wx800-and-vx700-hdtvs-stateside-bdx3000-3d-blu-r/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/15/toshiba-brings-wx800-and-vx700-hdtvs-stateside-bdx3000-3d-blu-r/#comments Remember that slate of drop-dead gorgeous Toshiba HDTVs that emerged at IFA? They're back, and they're making a beeline for a living room near you. Provided that "you" are in "the US of A," that is. Just as we expected, Tosh has come clean with the US variants of its LED-based Cinema Series, with the flagship WX800 models (46- and 55-inches) getting 3D Resolution+ technology, 240Hz processor, inbuilt 802.11b/g/n WiFi, the company's own Enhanced NET TV service, Yahoo! widgets (score!) and a native 1080p panel. The lower end VX700 series (again, 46- and 55-inches) is meant for those content with 2D imagery, but they still retain the connected features along with two USB ports, an SD / SDHC card slot and DLNA support. Lastly, the BDX3000 3D Blu-ray player that we've been holding out for finally has a ship date, and it's soon. Within a fortnight, the aforesaid player will be out and about on US shelves for $249.99, representing a $50 premium over the 3D-less BDX2700. Check out the full list of details embedded after the break.

Gallery: Toshiba WX800 and VX700 HDTVs; BDX3000 3D Blu-ray player

Continue reading Toshiba brings WX800 and VX700 HDTVs stateside, BDX3000 3D Blu-ray player this month

Toshiba brings WX800 and VX700 HDTVs stateside, BDX3000 3D Blu-ray player this month originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 15 Sep 2010 12:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3d3d blu-ray3d hdtv3d tv3dBlu-ray3dHdtv3dTv46VX70046WX80055VX70055WX800BDX2500BDX2700bdx3000blockbuster on demandBlockbusterOnDemandblu-rayCinema SeriesCinemaSeriescinespeedcolormasterconnected hdtvConnectedHdtvdynalighthdtvlednetflixpandoraregzatoshibaVUDUvx700widgetwidgetswx800yahooyahoo connected tvyahoo widgetsYahooConnectedTvYahooWidgetsWed, 15 Sep 2010 12:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Opera gets serious about TV widget content, releases CDK]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/13/opera-gets-serious-about-tv-widget-content-releases-cdk/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/13/opera-gets-serious-about-tv-widget-content-releases-cdk/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/13/opera-gets-serious-about-tv-widget-content-releases-cdk/#comments Norwegian software company Opera first waded into the TV app game when they released an SDK for widgets back in 2008. Now they've taken another serious step by releasing the Opera Devices Content Development Kit to help HTML, CSS, XML, and Javascript savvy developers create content using technologies they're already versed in. For those who don't live and breathe in The Matrix, Opera's hope is to lower the barriers of entry for bringing online content into the living room, since the software eliminates the need for physical devices to test on. It also supports W3C, HbbTV (Hybrid Broadcast Broadband TV), OIPF, and CEA-2014 specifications -- meaning it's capable of running on a wide range of hardware from variety of manufacturers. For more details read the PR after the break or watch Opera's video from 2009 on the subject, which unfortunately isn't on par with its previous potato boiling jabs at Google. Still, learning about "Oprah's" new widgets makes it definitely worth a watch.

Continue reading Opera gets serious about TV widget content, releases CDK

Opera gets serious about TV widget content, releases CDK originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 13 Sep 2010 04:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CDKCEA-2014CSSdevelopementdevelopersHbbTVHTMLHTML 5Hybrid Broadcast Broadband TVHybridBroadcastBroadbandTvinternet widgetsInternetWidgetsJavaScriptOIPFOperaOpera CDKOpera Content Development KitOpera Devices SDKOpera Widgets SDKSDKtv widgetsTvWidgetsvideoW3CWidgetsyahoo widgetsYahooWidgetsMon, 13 Sep 2010 04:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Engadget's back to school guide: Televisions]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/31/engadgets-back-to-school-guide-televisions/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/31/engadgets-back-to-school-guide-televisions/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/31/engadgets-back-to-school-guide-televisions/#commentsWelcome to Engadget's Back to School guide! We know that this time of year can be pretty annoying and stressful for everyone, so we're here to help out with the heartbreaking process of gadget buying for the school-aged crowd. Today, we have HDTVs in our sights -- and you can head to the Back to School hub to see the rest of the product guides as they're added throughout the month.

All those small screen devices in our back to school guide so far are nice, but lets face it, when it comes to watching TV or taking a quick Call of duty study break, you're going to need something more sizable. Higher end features like 1080p resolution, 120Hz and LED lighting have trickled down to more affordable price ranges so there's really no excuse for lugging a CRT as old as you are into any dorm room this fall. Whether you're looking something that pulls double duty as a computer monitor for work and HDTV for play (at the same time) or just the biggest screen for the buck there's plenty to choose from, so let's select a few winners from the crowd.

Continue reading Engadget's back to school guide: Televisions

Engadget's back to school guide: Televisions originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 31 Aug 2010 13:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>201040e200u46ld550b2230hdback to schoolback to school 2010BackToSchoolBackToSchool2010hdtvlcdledm220nvpanasonicplasmapn42c430samsungtc-l22x2tc-p42u2tc-p50g20televisiontoshibaviaviziovizio internet appsVizioInternetAppswidgetswifixvt423svTue, 31 Aug 2010 13:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony delivers a new midrange 3DTV line with the NX810 series (updated with hands-on)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/25/sony-delivers-a-new-midrange-3dtv-line-with-the-nx810-series/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/25/sony-delivers-a-new-midrange-3dtv-line-with-the-nx810-series/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/25/sony-delivers-a-new-midrange-3dtv-line-with-the-nx810-series/#comments Sony's finally taken the wraps off its latest televisions for the US market, carrying the NX810 model number. Available in 60-, 55- and 46-inch sizes next month, these give a 3D spec bump (and around a $200 premium on the MSRP) to the existing NX800 series of Edge LED lit HDTVs that came out earlier this year. Like the NX800, these feature a slick monolith design, built-in WiFi, widgets and an ambient light sensor to automatically adjust the picture in changing room conditions, but other than the 3D-readiness (and coupons for free Blu-ray 3D movies and PSN games, though it looks like you'll have to pay for the glasses on your own) it's hard to find any differences on paper. Football fans looking for a new 3D set may be tempted to jump on one and can check the specs and prices after the break, but we'll probably wait around to see what a Google TV might bring to the table -- and at what price.

Update: We got a chance to check out a few of these 3DTVs this evening at Sony's open house in NYC. As per usual, the BRAVIAs were stunning and made us want to save up some cash to get one of these into our living room. And yes, we put on the 3D glasses and watched an assortment of clips. It was like those cute little bears in the snowy picture below were at the swanky event with us. Go on, you know you want to look at the cuddly things, err screens...

Gallery: Sony NX810 3DTV eyes-on

Continue reading Sony delivers a new midrange 3DTV line with the NX810 series (updated with hands-on)

Sony delivers a new midrange 3DTV line with the NX810 series (updated with hands-on) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 25 Aug 2010 16:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3d3dtvbraviahdtvKDL-46NX810KDL-55NX810KDL-60NX810nx810qriocitysonywidgetswifiWed, 25 Aug 2010 16:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony Dash update brings Shoutcast, app shortcuts and the true meaning of life]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/13/sony-dash-update-brings-shoutcast-app-shortcuts-and-the-true-me/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/13/sony-dash-update-brings-shoutcast-app-shortcuts-and-the-true-me/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/13/sony-dash-update-brings-shoutcast-app-shortcuts-and-the-true-me/#comments Got yourself a Sony Dash, did you? If so, right about now would be a beautiful time to unplug it and plug it back in, as that'll trigger a minty fresh update to download and apply. This newfangled software build will not only add Shoutcast as an available internet radio station, but it also brings app shortcuts and a hastened add / delete app process. It ain't much, but it ain't costly, either. Let us know in comments how it all works out for you, cool?

[Thanks, Dave]

Sony Dash update brings Shoutcast, app shortcuts and the true meaning of life originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 13 Aug 2010 03:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alarm clockAlarmClockchumbyclockdashfirmwareInternet RadioInternetRadioshoutcastsoftwaresonySony DashSonyDashupdatewidgetwidgetsFri, 13 Aug 2010 03:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Syabas provides tease of upcoming PopBox UI]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/15/syabas-provides-tease-of-upcoming-popbox-ui/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/15/syabas-provides-tease-of-upcoming-popbox-ui/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/15/syabas-provides-tease-of-upcoming-popbox-ui/#comments We've already seen a lot of the Popbox, which is due out on July 23rd, but now we're getting a peek at the UI. Screenshots revealed on the company's blog showcase a welcome screen featuring quick access to the media library, apps, search and settings. We've also got a center "home" bar of presumably customizable widgets for at a glance weather and Twitter updates -- two snippets that you'll undoubtedly be refreshing at a near-maddening pace. Prominent features in the shared media library view include a top navigation bar for browsing by media type and a left sub navigation rail for media subgroups. Features aside though, these slightly distorted images definitely resemble the original Boxee interface, but we're all reminded that what we're seeing now is just an initial version. In other words, don't be shocked and appalled if significant updates come quickly after the device's official launch, cool?

Gallery: Popbox UI Screenshots

Popbox Videos UI Screen ShotsPopbox Music UI ScreenshotsPopbox Movie UI Screen ShotsPopbox Apps UI ScreenshotsPopbox Search UI Screenshots

Syabas provides tease of upcoming PopBox UI originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 15 Jul 2010 12:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsboxeedvdshdmedia librariesmedia librarymedia streamersMediaLibrarymoviesmp3mp3smusicphotosPop Boxpop corn hourPopBoxpopcorn hourset top boxsettop boxstreamerssyabaswdtvwidgetsThu, 15 Jul 2010 12:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask Engadget: best media display / internet viewer for bedside?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/24/ask-engadget-best-media-display-internet-viewer-for-bedside/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/24/ask-engadget-best-media-display-internet-viewer-for-bedside/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/24/ask-engadget-best-media-display-internet-viewer-for-bedside/#comments We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget question is coming to us from Jon, who just needs something to give him loads of glanceable information moments before he drifts off into the land of fairies, unicorns and deep-friend cotton candy. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com.
"I've been trying to buy a new alarm clock lately and am completely appalled at the selection available online or elsewhere. Most are basically docks for your iPod / PMP and have a pre-turn of the century LCD digital clock display and some shoddy speakers. They also range in price from $40 to $200. After seeing things like the Sony Dash and the new Insignia Infocast, I could see those as viable alarm clock solutions (with weather, music, maybe an RSS feed). Are there other items out there that have a great display that you can dim and would be able to serve this purpose? Or or either of those the one to get?"
So, sweet-dreamers, what'll it be? Do you have a Chumby-infused widget display on your own night stand? Go on, don't be shy -- help a brother out in comments below.

Ask Engadget: best media display / internet viewer for bedside? originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 24 Jun 2010 22:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>askAsk EngadgetAskEngadgetchumbydashinfocastinsigniainternet viewerInternetViewersony dashSonyDashwidgetsThu, 24 Jun 2010 22:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Google Maps, Facebook come to Samsung TVs & Blu-ray players]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/11/google-maps-facebook-come-to-samsung-tvs-and-blu-ray-players/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/11/google-maps-facebook-come-to-samsung-tvs-and-blu-ray-players/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/11/google-maps-facebook-come-to-samsung-tvs-and-blu-ray-players/#comments We still don't know if Samsung will put Google's Android into its TVs, but it has recently launched Google Maps and Facebook as a part of its existing Samsung Apps platform. There aren't a lot of details in the press release (included after the break) but buyers of most of the 2010 line HDTVs, Blu-ray players and HTIB systems should have access to them. We've seen demos of how Samsung Apps can tie phones and TVs together easily, but can a mere Google Maps app match the Google TVs ability to push info back and forth from device to device? The Facebook app on Xbox 360 is moderately useful if only as a way to browse photo albums on the HDTV, so we'll also be waiting to find out if it will at least match that functionality.

Continue reading Google Maps, Facebook come to Samsung TVs & Blu-ray players

Google Maps, Facebook come to Samsung TVs & Blu-ray players originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 11 Jun 2010 22:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsconnected hdtvConnectedHdtvfacebookgooglegoogle mapsGoogleMapshdsamsungsamsung appsSamsungAppswidgetsxmlyahoo widgetsYahooWidgetsFri, 11 Jun 2010 22:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Nokia N8 video overview: Symbian^3 homescreens, messaging, email, and Flash-capable browser on show]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/28/nokia-n8-gets-its-own-video-walkthrough-symbian-3-homescreens-e/http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/28/nokia-n8-gets-its-own-video-walkthrough-symbian-3-homescreens-e/http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/28/nokia-n8-gets-its-own-video-walkthrough-symbian-3-homescreens-e/#comments It seems like the only question really left about the Nokia N8, albeit the most important one, is just how it'll interface with the user and what the experience of living with it will be like. The Nokia Conversations team is now aiming to answer just that with the first of three video walkthroughs taking us on a tour of the new device and its Symbian^3 operating environment. We now know you can have up to three homescreens with six widgets apiece, and -- gasp -- wallpapers are available right off the bat. Threaded messaging is also implemented in the new OS, as well as a soft QWERTY keyboard and a set of emoticons... yes, emoticons. Notably, the entire demo is done with the phone held in landscape, suggesting that might be the preferred method of use, while transitions between menus look as quick and pleasurable as you might expect from a promo video. See the whole thing after the break.

Continue reading Nokia N8 video overview: Symbian^3 homescreens, messaging, email, and Flash-capable browser on show

Nokia N8 video overview: Symbian^3 homescreens, messaging, email, and Flash-capable browser on show originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 28 May 2010 09:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adobe flashAdobeFlashchris bennettsChrisBennettsdemodemontrationemoticonsflashhome screenhome screensHomeScreenHomeScreensMobile OSMobileOsn8n810nokianokia conversationsnokia n8NokiaConversationsNokiaN8softwareSymbianSymbian 3Symbian3videovideo walkthroughVideoWalkthroughwalkthroughwidgetsFri, 28 May 2010 09:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Google TV: Who is the competition and what are they saying about it?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/21/google-tv-who-is-the-competition-and-what-are-they-saying-about/http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/21/google-tv-who-is-the-competition-and-what-are-they-saying-about/http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/21/google-tv-who-is-the-competition-and-what-are-they-saying-about/#comments The Google TV has landed and is already sending ripples through the marketplace, but what about all the companies already blending internet and TV? Whether they are already planning to work with the new initiative (Rovi), even more firmly staking a claim on their existing technology and vision for the connected TV (Microsoft, Yahoo), sounding like it's an option for the future (Samsung, VIZIO, Boxee) or already working on their own Android on TV projects (People of Lava, MIPS) each one should tell a little bit about where this market is headed in the coming months and years. Read on for their statements -- and a quick breakdown of what each is bringing to the table in case you weren't already running a network cable to your HDTV years ago.

Update: Now with reactions from Roku and PlayOn!

Continue reading Google TV: Who is the competition and what are they saying about it?

Google TV: Who is the competition and what are they saying about it? originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 21 May 2010 13:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid tvAndroidTvconnected hdtvConnectedHdtvgooglegoogle tvGoogleTvhdmedia centermedia center embeddedMediaCenterMediaCenterEmbeddedmediaroommicrosoftmipsMips TechnologiesMipsTechnologiespeople of lavaPeopleOfLavarokuroku netflix playerroku video playerRokuNetflixPlayerRokuVideoPlayerrovisamsungsamsung appsSamsungAppssonytotal guideTotalGuideviziovizio internet appsVizioInternetAppsweb tvWebTvwidgetsWindows 7 Media CenterWindows7MediaCenteryahooyahoo widgetsYahooWidgetsFri, 21 May 2010 13:40:00 EST<![CDATA[iPhone OS 4 beta 3 brings iPod widgets to the dock]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/04/iphone-os-4-beta-3-brings-ipod-widgets-to-the-dock/http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/04/iphone-os-4-beta-3-brings-ipod-widgets-to-the-dock/http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/04/iphone-os-4-beta-3-brings-ipod-widgets-to-the-dock/#comments Apple may have pulled iPhone OS 4 beta 3 soon after it went live, but we're living recklessly -- and hey, is that a set of iPod controls and a screen orientation lock hiding out in the app switcher? The control is accessed by swiping to the far left, and it all does pretty much what you'd expect. That's good news, since we were missing the old pop-up iPod controls pretty badly. We're hunting around for more new stuff, we'll let you know if we find anything.

iPhone OS 4 beta 3 brings iPod widgets to the dock originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 04 May 2010 18:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applebetaiphoneiphone os 4iphone os 4 beta 3iphone os 4b3IphoneOs4IphoneOs4b3IphoneOs4Beta3ipodorientation lockOrientationLockwidgetsTue, 04 May 2010 18:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Google, Sony, Intel & Logitech's TV project to be unveiled next month as Dragonpoint?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/04/29/google-sony-intel-and-logitechs-tv-project-to-be-unveiled-next/http://www.engadget.com/2010/04/29/google-sony-intel-and-logitechs-tv-project-to-be-unveiled-next/http://www.engadget.com/2010/04/29/google-sony-intel-and-logitechs-tv-project-to-be-unveiled-next/#comments The conclusion to the sudden flurry of rumors around Sony HDTVs featuring Android, Intel Atom processors and Logitech-designed QWERTY remotes may be near, as Bloomberg Businessweek reports the project will be revealed during Google I/O next month. The latest wrinkle for the supposed product is a name, "Dragonpoint," for the new flavor of Android destined to operate on displays, Blu-ray players and set-top boxes. It's obvious that Google wants search in the living room, Sony needs something to overcome the app (Samsung is back on the list of possible partners) and widget powered competition, and Intel needs a home for its CE4100 chips to show off their power outside of a demonstration for once, but we'll have to wait and see what they've cooked up to know if we need any of that in our next HDTV.

Google, Sony, Intel & Logitech's TV project to be unveiled next month as Dragonpoint? originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 29 Apr 2010 16:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidatomce4100dragonpointgooglegoogle iogoogle tvGoogleIoGoogleTvintellogitechsmart tvSmartTvsonywidgetsThu, 29 Apr 2010 16:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Dashboard iPad app rejected by Apple, made open source instead]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/04/09/dashboard-ipad-app-rejected-by-apple-made-open-source-instead/http://www.engadget.com/2010/04/09/dashboard-ipad-app-rejected-by-apple-made-open-source-instead/http://www.engadget.com/2010/04/09/dashboard-ipad-app-rejected-by-apple-made-open-source-instead/#comments
So you spend hours and hours toiling away on an app that adds some much-needed Dashboard-like functionality to the iPad (sort of, more on that later) only to have it rejected by Apple -- what do you do? If you're Hongrich, developer of the slightly problematically-named "Dashboard" app, you make it open source. Of course, you'll have to be a developer yourself to actually try out the app, and it's not exactly the full-fledged Dashboard that many have been hoping for, but rather a standalone app that simply lets you run and arrange widgets however you like. Still, it's definitely a start. Head on past the break for a demo video, and hit up the source link to download it yourself.

Continue reading Dashboard iPad app rejected by Apple, made open source instead

Dashboard iPad app rejected by Apple, made open source instead originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 09 Apr 2010 16:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appappledashboardhongrichipadipad appIpadAppopen sourceOpenSourcewidgetsFri, 09 Apr 2010 16:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Who doesn't want Android and Intel in their HDTV? Panasonic & Samsung]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/04/01/who-doesnt-want-android-and-intel-in-their-hdtv-panasonic-and-sa/http://www.engadget.com/2010/04/01/who-doesnt-want-android-and-intel-in-their-hdtv-panasonic-and-sa/http://www.engadget.com/2010/04/01/who-doesnt-want-android-and-intel-in-their-hdtv-panasonic-and-sa/#comments Sure, selling $150~ 3D glasses and $80~ WiFi adapters for their HDTVs is no problem, but according to Bloomberg Samsung and Panasonic have drawn the line at the rumored Google TV initiative. Panasonic VP Bob Perry said in an interview that the Intel hardware to run Android "adds too much to the cost of the set," while Samsung similarly declined to join, looking towards a future built on its own apps platform. The widget experience at CES 2010 did appear to be much improved, but so far the sometimes slow and clunky interfaces have left us with CE4100 dreams and open Market wishes. Judging by our last poll on the subject, opinions on the future of such displays are split, but without anything in the way of an official announcement from the Google / Intel / Sony / Logitech cabal we'll hold off on deciding who has made the right choice.

Who doesn't want Android and Intel in their HDTV? Panasonic & Samsung originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 01 Apr 2010 01:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidbob perryBobPerryce4100googlegoogle tvGoogleTvhdtvintellogitechpanasonicsamsungsamsung appsSamsungAppssonytelevisionviera castVieraCastwidgetsThu, 01 Apr 2010 01:49:00 EST<![CDATA[Omnimo: desktop Windows given fashion makeover with Phone 7 Series flair]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/30/omnimo-desktop-windows-given-fashion-makeover-with-phone-7-seri/http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/30/omnimo-desktop-windows-given-fashion-makeover-with-phone-7-seri/http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/30/omnimo-desktop-windows-given-fashion-makeover-with-phone-7-seri/#comments Can't wait for Windows Phone 7 Series, but can't hack the emulator, either? Don't lose hope, Windows junkies -- you can still bring some semblance of WP7S order into your life with this Metro UI-inspired desktop HUD. Based on the open-source desktop customization platform Rainmeter, the "Omnimo UI" will overlay your desktop with a minimalist, tiled interface not unlike the one you've been drooling over for weeks, with live hooks into many useful services (including Gmail, iTunes, Steam, Twitter and SpeedFan) as well as the usual widgets and a host of program shortcuts. The best news of all? It's available now for all versions of Windows since XP, completely free of charge; simply follow the source links or flit over to Lifehacker, where good folks will teach you how it's done.

Omnimo: desktop Windows given fashion makeover with Phone 7 Series flair originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 30 Mar 2010 18:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>freegmailHUDinterfaceituneslifehackermakeovermetroMetro UIMetroUiomnimoOmnimo UIOmnimoUiRainmeterSpeedfansteamtiletilestwitteruiuser interfaceUserInterfacewidgetsWindowsWindows PhoneWindows Phone 7Windows Phone 7 SeriesWindows XPWindowsPhoneWindowsPhone7WindowsPhone7SeriesWindowsXpwpwp7WP7STue, 30 Mar 2010 18:48:00 EST<![CDATA[Poll: Did you buy an internet connected HDTV?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/01/24/poll-did-you-buy-an-internet-connected-hdtv/http://www.engadget.com/2010/01/24/poll-did-you-buy-an-internet-connected-hdtv/http://www.engadget.com/2010/01/24/poll-did-you-buy-an-internet-connected-hdtv/#comments One last followup on the trends of CES '09, last time we checked about 20% of you were at least thinking about grabbing a new HDTV with internet features last year. Of course, that was before VIZIO's XVT 55-inch was delayed and we were slightly disappointed by the widget performance on Samsung's LED model and desires cooled off a bit. So, how many of you are currently watching the conference championships on screens with Ethernet or WiFi hookups embedded in them? Anyone actually tweeting or pulling in Facebook updates via their remote? According to what we saw this year, televisions acting as embedded platforms for more services is a trend that will keep growing, but how is it working out so far?

View Poll

Poll: Did you buy an internet connected HDTV? originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 24 Jan 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>connected hdtvConnectedHdtvhdpollpollswidgetwidgetsyahoo widgetYahooWidgetSun, 24 Jan 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[VIZIO's 2010 LCD lineup is LED from top to bottom]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/01/08/vizios-2010-lcd-lineup-is-led-from-top-to-bottom/http://www.engadget.com/2010/01/08/vizios-2010-lcd-lineup-is-led-from-top-to-bottom/http://www.engadget.com/2010/01/08/vizios-2010-lcd-lineup-is-led-from-top-to-bottom/#comments VIZIO's finally seen fit to bless the world with further details of its 2010 LCD lineup for the benefit of those without the scratch to ring up an XVT Pro 3D model this August. The XVT Series continues on its LED backlit way, with VIZIO Internet Apps, 802.11n and Bluetooth QWERTY remote in 42- to 55-inch sizes, waiting until May or later to buy should net an extra HDMI jack and updated StudioSound HD. Everything below that, from the 37- to 16-inch HDTVs get the Razor LED edge lit treatment, with a few snagging other bonuses along the way like VIA and 120Hz motion processing. Check the press release for the details, whether dorm room or living room we're sure there's something that fits the bill.

VIZIO's 2010 LCD lineup is LED from top to bottom originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 08 Jan 2010 00:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>120hz240hzcesces 2010Ces2010edge litEdgeLithdtvlcdledled backlitLedBacklitviaviziovizio internet appsVizioInternetAppswidgetsyahooyahoo widgetsYahooWidgetsFri, 08 Jan 2010 00:08:00 EST<![CDATA[Chumby One gets the iFixit treatment, greets world with a cute hidden message]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/12/18/chumby-one-gets-the-ifixit-treatment-greets-world-with-a-cute-h/http://www.engadget.com/2009/12/18/chumby-one-gets-the-ifixit-treatment-greets-world-with-a-cute-h/http://www.engadget.com/2009/12/18/chumby-one-gets-the-ifixit-treatment-greets-world-with-a-cute-h/#comments
We've already played with the Chumby One and fell for it, so it did hurt a bit when our friends at iFixit decided to rip this cute device apart. Actually, it wasn't as heartbreaking as we thought, especially when the hackers spotted a cute message below the Kingston 2GB microSD card -- containing the firmware -- on the logic board, courtesy of Andrew "bunnie" Huang, VP Hardware Engineering and Founder of Chumby Industries. Other notable discoveries include a Freescale i.MX233 processor, Hynix 64MB DDR RAM and a removable "Ralink-based RT2571 USB Wi-Fi dongle" (note: extra USB port!). Feel free to check out the guts after the break -- just promise you won't cry or faint.

Continue reading Chumby One gets the iFixit treatment, greets world with a cute hidden message

Chumby One gets the iFixit treatment, greets world with a cute hidden message originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 18 Dec 2009 03:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chumbychumby gutschumby onechumby one gutsChumbyGutsChumbyOneChumbyOneGutsifixitifixit teardownifixit.comIfixitTeardownteardownwidgetWidgetsFri, 18 Dec 2009 03:46:00 EST<![CDATA[HTC debuts widgets for Sense-equipped Android phones]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/12/17/htc-debuts-widgets-for-sense-equipped-android-phones/http://www.engadget.com/2009/12/17/htc-debuts-widgets-for-sense-equipped-android-phones/http://www.engadget.com/2009/12/17/htc-debuts-widgets-for-sense-equipped-android-phones/#comments HTC was already in the Android software game by virtue of the fact that it drops a fully-customized UI and widget suite on some of its models, but this is new: they've migrated over to the Market. Now, what'd be insanely awesome here is if you could, say, buy Sense for $9.99 and install it on any Android device, but yeah, not so much -- what we've actually got here is a four-pack of free widgets that are compatible with the Hero and Droid Eris. Dice, Today in History, Tip Calculator, and Battery are each downloadable individually; none are particularly exciting or different than what's already available in the Market, but they've all got that famous HTC high style and the exclusivity of knowing that Motorola, Acer, Samsung, and Huawei riffraff can't use them. All four are available now.

HTC debuts widgets for Sense-equipped Android phones originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 17 Dec 2009 13:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid marketAndroidMarketbatterydicedroid erisDroidErisherohtcsensesense uiSenseUitip calculatorTipCalculatortoday in historyTodayInHistorywidgetwidgetsThu, 17 Dec 2009 13:49:00 EST