In a recent interview with IndustryGamer, Wedbush analyst Michael Pachter envisioned a world where people would not be able to find a Nintendo 3DS in a store throughout 2011. Why? Because of the low price point. He says that the $250 mark will seem like a bargain to the majority of consumers, and therefore they will just “scoop them all up.” He says that the price is “not shareholder friendly, but consumers are going to love the $249 price point.”

According to Pachter, a $300 price tag would have made more sense to consumers, especially considering all of the things the Nintendo 3DS can do. Of course, running out of consoles is something that Nintendo has grown accustomed to. Finding a Wii was almost impossible during its initial launch, and well into the future. So, will Pachter be right, and will we see 3DS units show up on eBay for $500?

[via CNET]

The company is currently showing off their optical/resistive touch panel at the third annual International Automotive Electronics Technology Expo, that began on January 19th and runs until the 21st. It’s taking place in Tokyo, and it’s where many companies go to show off their next best gadgets or design, all in the hopes of getting it installed in the next popular vehicle.

For Shoei, their idea is to combine both a resistive technology with an optical touch panel, and instead of focus on a touchscreen display like we’ve seen in so many vehicles lately, make it an independent operation terminal for usage in connection with the display we’ve come to expect in vehicles. The company would hope that the touch panel would be installed somewhere near the driver, so that they could control the LCD display in the dashboard without having to lean over and interact with it.

The company demonstrated it on the floor. From the sounds of it, you would interact with the operation terminal much like that of a laptop’s touchpad and mouse buttons. Simply pressing the touch panel down allows for the user to navigate a cursor on the LCD monitor in the dashboard, and allows for quick inputs without having to worry about getting distracted while leaning over to interact with the dashboard unit. The unit on display was created from combining a camera, and retroreflective tape. The two features are a necessity to make the device function properly.

As for a release date, Shoei believes they can create a truly functioning prototype of their idea some time in 2011. Their goal is to have it commercialized in some capacity by the year 2012.

[via Tech-On!]

The ongoing war between Apple and Nokia took another heated step late Wednesday evening, as the Cupertino-based company revealed they would be suing Nokia in the United Kingdom, in hopes of invalidating a particular touchscreen patent. The patent that Apple is looking to invalidate is the touchscreen scrolling patent that Nokia used to sue Apple in Germany, way back in September of 2010.

As of right now, the total count for patent disputes going on between the pair of companies is up to 37. Considering Nokia started the whole thing, most recently, it’s no surprise that Apple is continuing to push the necessary buttons to make the legal actions continue. As we’ve seen in the past, Apple has already moved one legal battle to another court district. With all of the details swirling around, and more legal actions obviously going to take place into the distant future, it will be interesting to see how this whole thing turns out, one way or another.

As for the most recent suit, Apple hasn’t commented on it, while Nokia has stated they will put up a strong defense against the current action.

[via Electronista]

Splash Damage’s song is the main feature of the small video, we believe. Especially in that it’s recreated in the short gameplay clip using only the weapons in the game. You’ll have to watch it to appreciate it. Keep in mind, though, that the upcoming title may not be officially rated by the ESRB yet, it’s looking to us that there’s going to definitely be a Maure rating, and there’s plenty of violence in the clip below.

Brink will be released later this year for Microsoft’s Xbox 360, Sony’s PlayStation 3, and the PC.

[via Kotaku]

You probably won’t be able to take the self-loading LEGO dice tower into a casino in Vegas, or at least not take it to a table with you, but it couldn’t hurt to try, right? After all, if you’re a superstitious person, sometimes you just can’t roll your own die, and there might not be anyone around that you trust enough to win you a hundred thousand dollars, or lose it all in one swift throw of the dice.

The LEGO dice tower uses a lever to load the dice into its tower, and then it will roll them out the bottom for you. Simple enough of a design, but one that makes us want to be a kid again and start building crazy contraptions. Check out the video below to see the tower in action.

[via UberGizmo]

The new patents suggest that Apple is toying around with the idea of putting a multitouch display on the top of a mouse peripheral. The display would be able to show off different pieces of information. As one image shows, a calculator could easily be displayed there, and touch-sensitive keys would allow for the numbers to be activated when necessary. Apple wouldn’t get rid of the left- and right-click buttons, though. It would just be the middle of the peripheral that would see the majority of alterations.

Part of the patent, is Apple’s idea of a virtual keyboard. Having the ability to change the keys to whatever a user needed at any given moment, and then being able to switch back when needed. Apple would also include a dedicated haptic feedback motor, so that when a digital key is pressed the user would feel it. Considering how popular multitouch is in today’s gadgets, and how a programmable virtual keyboard would be a benefit to those who use their keyboards often and for varied reasons, it seems that Apple would more than likely have a hit on their hands, if these were to come to market.

[via Patently Apple]

Verizon has announced on Thursday that they will be going to court to combat the newest net neutrality rules. They will be taking their movement to the US Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. According to the report, Verizon is concerned by the FCC’s authority, in its overall broad approach, to make new regulations on broadband networks.

Michael Glover, Verizon’s Deputy General counsel, had this to say: “We believe this assertion of authority goes well beyond any authority provided by Congress, and creates uncertainty for the communications industry, innovators, investors and consumers.”

The movement means that the net neutrality issue is about to pick up speed again, and Verizon will more than likely continue to make it interesting as the days continue.

[via Reuters]

The backpack system features tiny vibrating panels on both sides of the pack. These panels, when activated remotely, tell the dog which direction to head. Using the integrated GPS system, along with the radio modem inside, controllers are able to see where the dog is exactly at any given moment, and guide the animal to wherever they need it to be. The general idea is to be able to no longer limit an animal by having to make sure that a human is with them at all time. The dog, moving on its own, will be able to cover more ground, and faster.

Obviously, questions about what kind of missions these dogs would be sent on are already popping up. While rescue missions, where the dog would be able to go out and try to find lost hikers, would be less dangerous than other proposed uses, it’s obvious that some will want to use these remote-controlled animals for other uses. Like in war time situations.

[via DVICE]

The transition is set to start on April 4th, and Larry Page will officially be taking over Google’s day-to-day operations as Chief Executive Officer. Furthermore, though, Sergey Brin is planning on devoting his efforts to new products, and new products only. Of course, Schmidt is sticking around, and will take up the role of Executive Chairman. He will be focusing his own efforts externally for Google, with deals, partnerships, and adding customers his main priority.

As for any internal time, Schmidt will be acting as an advisor to both Brin and Page. Check out the full press release below for more information.

Press Release

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif. – January 20, 2011 – Google Inc. (NASDAQ: GOOG) today announced financial results for the quarter and the fiscal year ended December 31, 2010.

“Q4 marked a terrific end to a stellar year,” said Eric Schmidt, CEO of Google. “Our strong performance has been driven by a rapidly growing digital economy, continuous product innovation that benefits both users and advertisers, and by the extraordinary momentum of our newer businesses, such as display and mobile. These results give us the optimism and confidence to invest heavily in future growth — investments that will benefit our users, Google and the wider web.”

In addition, Google has also announced plans to streamline decision making and create clearer lines of responsibility and accountability at the top of the company.

Starting from April 4, Larry Page, Google Co-Founder, will take charge of Google’s day-to-day operations as Chief Executive Officer.
Sergey Brin, Google Co-Founder, will devote his energy to strategic projects, in particular working on new products.
Eric Schmidt will assume the role of Executive Chairman, focusing externally on deals, partnerships, customers and broader business relationships, government outreach and technology thought leadership–all of which are increasingly important given Google’s global reach. Internally, he will continue to act as an advisor to Larry and Sergey.
Commenting on these changes, Eric said: “We’ve been talking about how best to simplify our management structure and speed up decision making for a long time. By clarifying our individual roles we’ll create clearer responsibility and accountability at the top of the company. In my clear opinion, Larry is ready to lead and I’m excited about working with both him and Sergey for a long time to come.”

Larry said: “Eric has clearly done an outstanding job leading Google for the last decade. The results speak for themselves. There is no other CEO in the world that could have kept such headstrong founders so deeply involved and still run the business so brilliantly. Eric is a tremendous leader and I have learned innumerable lessons from him. His advice and efforts will be invaluable to me as I start in this new role. Google still has such incredible opportunity–we are only at the beginning and I can’t wait to get started.”

Q4 Financial Summary

Google reported revenues of $8.44 billion for the quarter ended December 31, 2010, an increase of 26% compared to the fourth quarter of 2009. Google reports its revenues, consistent with GAAP, on a gross basis without deducting traffic acquisition costs (TAC). In the fourth quarter of 2010, TAC totaled $2.07 billion, or 25% of advertising revenues.

Google reports operating income, operating margin, net income, and earnings per share (EPS) on a GAAP and non-GAAP basis. The non-GAAP measures, as well as free cash flow, an alternative non-GAAP measure of liquidity, are described below and are reconciled to the corresponding GAAP measures in the accompanying financial tables.

GAAP operating income in the fourth quarter of 2010 was $2.98 billion, or 35% of revenues. This compares to GAAP operating income of $2.48 billion, or 37% of revenues, in the fourth quarter of 2009. Non-GAAP operating income in the fourth quarter of 2010 was $3.38 billion, or 40% of revenues. This compares to non-GAAP operating income of $2.76 billion, or 41% of revenues, in the fourth quarter of 2009.
GAAP net income in the fourth quarter of 2010 was $2.54 billion, compared to $1.97 billion in the fourth quarter of 2009. Non-GAAP net income in the fourth quarter of 2010 was $2.85 billion, compared to $2.19 billion in the fourth quarter of 2009.
GAAP EPS in the fourth quarter of 2010 was $7.81 on 326 million diluted shares outstanding, compared to $6.13 in the fourth quarter of 2009 on 322 million diluted shares outstanding. Non-GAAP EPS in the fourth quarter of 2010 was $8.75, compared to $6.79 in the fourth quarter of 2009.
Non-GAAP operating income and non-GAAP operating margin exclude the expenses related to stock-based compensation (SBC). Non-GAAP net income and non-GAAP EPS exclude the expenses related to SBC and the related tax benefits. In the fourth quarter of 2010, the charge related to SBC was $396 million, compared to $276 million in the fourth quarter of 2009. The tax benefit related to SBC was $89 million in the fourth quarter of 2010 and $62 million in the fourth quarter of 2009.
Q4 Financial Highlights

Revenues – Google reported revenues of $8.44 billion in the fourth quarter of 2010, representing a 26% increase over fourth quarter 2009 revenues of $6.67 billion. Google reports its revenues, consistent with GAAP, on a gross basis without deducting TAC.

Google Sites Revenues – Google-owned sites generated revenues of $5.67 billion, or 67% of total revenues, in the fourth quarter of 2010. This represents a 28% increase over fourth quarter 2009 revenues of $4.42 billion.

Google Network Revenues – Google’s partner sites generated revenues, through AdSense programs, of $2.50 billion, or 30% of total revenues, in the fourth quarter of 2010. This represents a 22% increase from fourth quarter 2009 network revenues of $2.04 billion.

International Revenues – Revenues from outside of the United States totaled $4.38 billion, representing 52% of total revenues in the fourth quarter of 2010, compared to 52% in the third quarter of 2010 and 53% in the fourth quarter of 2009. Excluding gains related to our foreign exchange risk management program, had foreign exchange rates remained constant from the third quarter of 2010 through the fourth quarter of 2010, our revenues in the fourth quarter of 2010 would have been $201 million lower. Excluding gains related to our foreign exchange risk management program, had foreign exchange rates remained constant from the fourth quarter of 2009 through the fourth quarter of 2010, our revenues in the fourth quarter of 2010 would have been $132 million higher.

Revenues from the United Kingdom totaled $878 million, representing 10% of revenues in the fourth quarter of 2010, compared to 12% in the fourth quarter of 2009.
In the fourth quarter of 2010, we recognized a benefit of $25 million to revenues through our foreign exchange risk management program, compared to $8 million in the fourth quarter of 2009.
Paid Clicks – Aggregate paid clicks, which include clicks related to ads served on Google sites and the sites of our AdSense partners, increased approximately 18% over the fourth quarter of 2009 and increased approximately 11% over the third quarter of 2010.

Cost-Per-Click – Average cost-per-click, which includes clicks related to ads served on Google sites and the sites of our AdSense partners, increased approximately 5% over the fourth quarter of 2009 and increased approximately 4% over the third quarter of 2010.

TAC – Traffic Acquisition Costs, the portion of revenues shared with Google’s partners, increased to $2.07 billion in the fourth quarter of 2010, compared to TAC of $1.72 billion in the fourth quarter of 2009. TAC as a percentage of advertising revenues was 25% in the fourth quarter of 2010, compared to 27% in the fourth quarter of 2009.

The majority of TAC is related to amounts ultimately paid to our AdSense partners, which totaled $1.74 billion in the fourth quarter of 2010. TAC also includes amounts ultimately paid to certain distribution partners and others who direct traffic to our website, which totaled $333 million in the fourth quarter of 2010.

Other Cost of Revenues – Other cost of revenues, which is comprised primarily of data center operational expenses, amortization of intangible assets, content acquisition costs as well as credit card processing charges, increased to $877 million, or 10% of revenues, in the fourth quarter of 2010, compared to $688 million, or 10% of revenues, in the fourth quarter of 2009.

Operating Expenses – Operating expenses, other than cost of revenues, were $2.51 billion in the fourth quarter of 2010, or 30% of revenues, compared to $1.78 billion in the fourth quarter of 2009, or 27% of revenues.

Stock-Based Compensation (SBC) – In the fourth quarter of 2010, the total charge related to SBC was $396 million, compared to $276 million in the fourth quarter of 2009.

We currently estimate SBC charges for grants to employees prior to January 1, 2011 to be approximately $1.6 billion for 2011. This estimate does not include expenses to be recognized related to employee stock awards that are granted after December 31, 2010 or non-employee stock awards that have been or may be granted.

Operating Income – GAAP operating income in the fourth quarter of 2010 was $2.98 billion, or 35% of revenues. This compares to GAAP operating income of $2.48 billion, or 37% of revenues, in the fourth quarter of 2009. Non-GAAP operating income in the fourth quarter of 2010 was $3.38 billion, or 40% of revenues. This compares to non-GAAP operating income of $2.76 billion, or 41% of revenues, in the fourth quarter of 2009.

Interest and Other Income, Net – Interest and other income, net increased to $160 million in the fourth quarter of 2010, compared to $88 million in the fourth quarter of 2009.

Income Taxes – Our effective tax rate was 19% for the fourth quarter of 2010.

Net Income – GAAP net income in the fourth quarter of 2010 was $2.54 billion, compared to $1.97 billion in the fourth quarter of 2009. Non-GAAP net income was $2.85 billion in the fourth quarter of 2010, compared to $2.19 billion in the fourth quarter of 2009. GAAP EPS in the fourth quarter of 2010 was $7.81 on 326 million diluted shares outstanding, compared to $6.13 in the fourth quarter of 2009 on 322 million diluted shares outstanding. Non-GAAP EPS in the fourth quarter of 2010 was $8.75, compared to $6.79 in the fourth quarter of 2009.

Cash Flow and Capital Expenditures – Net cash provided by operating activities in the fourth quarter of 2010 totaled $3.53 billion, compared to $2.73 billion in the fourth quarter of 2009. In the fourth quarter of 2010, capital expenditures were $2.55 billion, which was primarily related to the purchase of our office building in New York City, as well as IT infrastructure investments, including data centers, servers, and networking equipment. Free cash flow, an alternative non-GAAP measure of liquidity, is defined as net cash provided by operating activities less capital expenditures. In the fourth quarter of 2010, free cash flow was $981 million.

We expect to continue to make significant capital expenditures.

A reconciliation of free cash flow to net cash provided by operating activities, the GAAP measure of liquidity, is included at the end of this release.

Cash – As of December 31, 2010, cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities were $35.0 billion.

Headcount – On a worldwide basis, Google employed 24,400 full-time employees as of December 31, 2010, up from 23,331 full-time employees as of September 30, 2010.

WEBCAST AND CONFERENCE CALL INFORMATION

A live audio webcast of Google’s fourth quarter and fiscal year 2010 earnings release call will be available at http://investor.google.com/webcast.html. The call begins today at 1:30 PM (PT) / 4:30 PM (ET). This press release, the financial tables, as well as other supplemental information including the reconciliations of certain non-GAAP measures to their nearest comparable GAAP measures, are also available on that site.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This press release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. These statements include statements regarding our continued investments in our core areas of strategic focus, our expected stock-based compensation charges, and our plans to make significant capital expenditures. Actual results may differ materially from the results predicted, and reported results should not be considered as an indication of future performance. The potential risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ from the results predicted include, among others, unforeseen changes in our hiring patterns and our need to expend capital to accommodate the growth of the business, as well as those risks and uncertainties included under the captions “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2009, and our most recent Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2010, which are on file with the SEC, and are available on our investor relations website at investor.google.com and on the SEC website at www.sec.gov. Additional information will also be set forth in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010, which we expect to file with the SEC in February 2011. All information provided in this release and in the attachments is as of January 20, 2011, and Google undertakes no duty to update this information.

ABOUT NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES

To supplement our consolidated financial statements, which statements are prepared and presented in accordance with GAAP, we use the following non-GAAP financial measures: non-GAAP operating income, non-GAAP operating margin, non-GAAP net income, non-GAAP EPS, and free cash flow. The presentation of this financial information is not intended to be considered in isolation or as a substitute for, or superior to, the financial information prepared and presented in accordance with GAAP. For more information on these non-GAAP financial measures, please see the tables captioned “Reconciliations of non-GAAP results of operations measures to the nearest comparable GAAP measures” and “Reconciliation from net cash provided by operating activities to free cash flow” included at the end of this release.

We use these non-GAAP financial measures for financial and operational decision making and as a means to evaluate period-to-period comparisons. Our management believes that these non-GAAP financial measures provide meaningful supplemental information regarding our performance and liquidity by excluding certain expenses and expenditures that may not be indicative of our “recurring core business operating results,” meaning our operating performance excluding not only non-cash charges, such as stock-based compensation, but also discrete cash charges that are infrequent in nature. We believe that both management and investors benefit from referring to these non-GAAP financial measures in assessing our performance and when planning, forecasting, and analyzing future periods. These non-GAAP financial measures also facilitate management’s internal comparisons to our historical performance and liquidity as well as comparisons to our competitors’ operating results. We believe these non-GAAP financial measures are useful to investors both because (1) they allow for greater transparency with respect to key metrics used by management in its financial and operational decision making and (2) they are used by our institutional investors and the analyst community to help them analyze the health of our business.

Non-GAAP operating income and operating margin. We define non-GAAP operating income as operating income plus stock-based compensation. Non-GAAP operating margin is defined as non-GAAP operating income divided by revenues. Google considers these non-GAAP financial measures to be useful metrics for management and investors because they exclude the effect of stock-based compensation so that Google’s management and investors can compare Google’s recurring core business operating results over multiple periods. Because of varying available valuation methodologies, subjective assumptions and the variety of award types that companies can use under ASC Topic 718, Google’s management believes that providing a non-GAAP financial measure that excludes stock-based compensation allows investors to make meaningful comparisons between Google’s recurring core business operating results and those of other companies, as well as providing Google’s management with an important tool for financial and operational decision making and for evaluating Google’s own recurring core business operating results over different periods of time. There are a number of limitations related to the use of non-GAAP operating income versus operating income calculated in accordance with GAAP. First, non-GAAP operating income excludes some costs, namely, stock-based compensation, that are recurring. Stock-based compensation has been and will continue to be for the foreseeable future a significant recurring expense in Google’s business. Second, stock-based compensation is an important part of our employees’ compensation and impacts their performance. Third, the components of the costs that we exclude in our calculation of non-GAAP operating income may differ from the components that our peer companies exclude when they report their results of operations. Management compensates for these limitations by providing specific information regarding the GAAP amounts excluded from non-GAAP operating income and evaluating non-GAAP operating income together with operating income calculated in accordance with GAAP.

Non-GAAP net income and EPS. We define non-GAAP net income as net income plus stock-based compensation less the related tax effects. We define non-GAAP EPS as non-GAAP net income divided by the weighted average outstanding shares, on a fully-diluted basis. We consider these non-GAAP financial measures to be a useful metric for management and investors for the same reasons that Google uses non-GAAP operating income and non-GAAP operating margin. However, in order to provide a complete picture of our recurring core business operating results, we exclude from non-GAAP net income and non-GAAP EPS the tax effects associated with stock-based compensation. Without excluding these tax effects, investors would only see the gross effect that excluding these expenses had on our operating results. The same limitations described above regarding Google’s use of non-GAAP operating income and non-GAAP operating margin apply to our use of non-GAAP net income and non-GAAP EPS. Management compensates for these limitations by providing specific information regarding the GAAP amounts excluded from non-GAAP net income and non-GAAP EPS and evaluating non-GAAP net income and non-GAAP EPS together with net income and EPS calculated in accordance with GAAP.

Free cash flow. We define free cash flow as net cash provided by operating activities minus capital expenditures. We consider free cash flow to be a liquidity measure that provides useful information to management and investors about the amount of cash generated by the business that, after the acquisition of property and equipment, including information technology infrastructure and land and buildings, can be used for strategic opportunities, including investing in our business, making strategic acquisitions, and strengthening the balance sheet. Analysis of free cash flow also facilitates management’s comparisons of our operating results to competitors’ operating results. A limitation of using free cash flow versus the GAAP measure of net cash provided by operating activities as a means for evaluating Google is that free cash flow does not represent the total increase or decrease in the cash balance from operations for the period because it excludes cash used for capital expenditures during the period. Our management compensates for this limitation by providing information about our capital expenditures on the face of the cash flow statement and under the caption “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and Annual Report on Form 10-K. Google has computed free cash flow using the same consistent method from quarter to quarter and year to year.

The accompanying tables have more details on the GAAP financial measures that are most directly comparable to non-GAAP financial measures and the related reconciliations between these financial measures.

The LA TImes is reporting, via their Company Town Blog, that Infinity Ward has called in some support for the next game, which is still officially unannounced at the moment. However, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 is indeed coming, and now Raven Software and Sledgehammer Games have been called in to help with the development. Sledgehammer Games has even had to stop development of its own spin-off on a Call of Duty title to help out IW.

It’s being reported that Sledgehammer Games will be helping IW with the single player campaign, while Raven Software will work with the remaining IW team members to develop multiplayer. All of this information is coming from “sources familiar with the matter,” so keeping that salt shaker in hand may not be a bad idea.

[via Joystiq]

Right now, if you’ve been a valued Sprint customer, and you’ve got a single line that’s $69.99 per month or more, then you’re considered part of the Premiere Program. If you’re on a family line, then you’re monthly bill has to be $99.99 per month or more to fall into the category. But, it looks like Sprint is changing that, starting on April 1st. The wireless carrier will be separating the Premier Program into Gold and Silver levels. To be part of the Gold level, you’ll need to have been a Sprint customer for 10 years or longer, and have an individual line that has a monthly bill of $89.99 or more. For families, you’ll need a monthly bill of $139.99 or higher to qualify.

All other customers will be dropped into the Silver program.

As for those who remain in the Gold level, you’ll still get the same treatment as you’re receiving now: newsletters, 20 percent discounts on two or more accessories purchased at one time, and offers to buy new devices before anyone else. You’ll also be able to continue to upgrade your device after only 12 months. As for the Silver members? They get all of the random benefits, like the newsletters and special offers, but they miss out on the early upgrade time. They’ll have to wait the full 22 months to get a new device.

This isn’t confirmed yet, but BGR has it on good word that this will be happening, come April Fool’s Day. A coincidence that it happens to fall on that particular day? Perhaps. But, with the changes that Sprint has already made, it looks like the wireless carrier isn’t worried about rustling the feathers of its customers.

[via BGR]

The Galaxy S 4G will feature a Super AMOLED capacitive touchscreen display, just as we’ve seen on all the other Galaxy S-branded Android-powered handsets from Samsung over the last few months. And yes, the Galaxy S 4G will run Android 2.2 under the hood, better known as Froyo. It will be able to take advantage of T-Mobile’s (theoretical) speeds up to 21 Mbps.

Further details about the handset, like how fast the processor will be, or how much RAM and memory will be thrown in to the package, remain to be seen. Pricing and a release date are missing, too. However, T-Mobile says they are coming in a few weeks, so stay tuned. Full press release below.

Press Release

T-Mobile to Deliver Fastest Smartphone Running on America’s Largest 4G Network

Galaxy S 4G Offers Rich Entertainment Experience at Lightning-Fast Speeds

BELLEVUE, Wash., and DALLAS — Jan. 20, 2011 — T-Mobile USA, Inc. and Samsung Telecommunications America (Samsung Mobile), the No. 1 mobile phone provider in the U.S.1, today revealed the Galaxy S™ 4G, exclusively from T-Mobile.

According to T-Mobile, the Galaxy S 4G will be the fastest smartphone running on America’s Largest 4G Network™. Powered by Android™ 2.2 (Froyo), the Galaxy S 4G is T-Mobile’s first smartphone capable of delivering theoretical peak download speeds of up to 21 Mbps, delivering rich entertainment experiences at even faster speeds through its brilliant Super AMOLED touch screen display.

T-Mobile’s 4G network, America’s largest 4G network, is currently available in 100 major metropolitan areas, reaching approximately 200 million people nationwide. With aggressive plans to expand and double the speed of its 4G network in 2011, T-Mobile expects that 140 million Americans in 25 major metropolitan areas will have access to these increased 4G speeds by midyear.

“With Galaxy S 4G, T-Mobile will deliver its fastest smartphone yet on America’s largest 4G network, providing rich entertainment virtually whenever and wherever consumers want,” said Cole Brodman, chief marketing officer, T-Mobile USA. “And with 4G data plans from $10 per month, we’re making blazing-fast 4G speeds and super smartphone experiences easily accessible to the millions who crave them.”

More information on the Galaxy S 4G from T-Mobile will be available in the coming weeks.

T-Mobile’s HSPA+ 4G network not available everywhere. See coverage details at T-Mobile.com. 4G used in connection with the Galaxy S™ 4G product name refers to the fact that the Galaxy S™ 4G is designed with HSPA+ technology.

# # #

About T-Mobile USA, Inc.

Based in Bellevue, Wash., T-Mobile USA, Inc. is the U.S. wireless operation of Deutsche Telekom AG. By the end of the third quarter of 2010, approximately 130 million mobile customers were served by the mobile communication segments of the Deutsche Telekom group — 33.8 million by T-Mobile USA — all via a common technology platform based on GSM and UMTS, the world’s most widely-used digital wireless standards. Today, T-Mobile operates America’s largest 4G network, and is delivering a compelling 4G experience across a broad lineup of leading devices in more places than competing 4G services. T-Mobile USA’s innovative wireless products and services help empower people to connect to those who matter most. Multiple independent research studies continue to rank T-Mobile USA among the highest in numerous regions throughout the U.S. in wireless customer care and call quality. For more information, please visit http://www.T-Mobile.com. T-Mobile is a federally registered trademark of Deutsche Telekom AG. For further information on Deutsche Telekom, please visit www.telekom.de/investor-relations.

Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements that reflect the current views of Deutsche Telekom management with respect to future events. The words “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “project” and “should” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on current plans, estimates, and projections, and therefore you should not place too much reliance on them. Such statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, most of which are difficult to predict and are generally beyond Deutsche Telekom’s control, including, without limitation, those factors set forth in “Forward-Looking Statements” and “Risk Factors” contained in Deutsche Telekom’s annual report on Form 20-F filed on February 28, 2010. If these or other risks and uncertainties materialize, or if the assumptions underlying any of these statements prove incorrect, Deutsche Telekom’s actual results may be materially different from those expressed or implied by such statements. Deutsche Telekom does not intend or assume any obligation to update these forward-looking statements.

About Samsung Telecommunications America
Samsung Telecommunications America, LLC, a Dallas-based subsidiary of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., researches, develops and markets wireless handsets and telecommunications products throughout North America. For more information, please visit www.samsung.com.

About Samsung Electronics
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. is a global leader in semiconductor, telecommunication, digital media and digital convergence technologies with 2009 consolidated sales of US$116.8 billion. Employing approximately 174,000 people in 193 offices across 66 countries, the company consists of eight independently operated business units: Visual Display, Mobile Communications, Telecommunication Systems, Digital Appliances, IT Solutions, Digital Imaging, Semiconductor and LCD. Recognized as one of the fastest growing global brands, Samsung Electronics is a leading producer of digital TVs, memory chips, mobile phones and TFT-LCDs. For more information, please visit www.samsung.com.

The tablet itself features a 10-inch touchscreen display. The projector, though, sits in a rotating section on the “top” of the tablet. It’s able to rotate backwards and forwards, so that the owner can project an image from the tablet onto a wall behind the tablet, or right in front of it. As mentioned above, Windows 7 is coming initially on the device, but MSI was up-front about their aspirations of bringing Android to the device, with an ARM-based architecture under the hood.

The device is just a prototype, and MSI has their feelers out, trying to find a good market for the tablet device. Entertainment on the go, or for on-the-move business workers who need to hold presentations in several different locations would probably be a good fit for this device. As for a projected release date, MSI doesn’t have one. Nor is there any word on what a tablet with a built-in projector would cost from MSI.

[via Electronista]

The research was conducted within the University of Southern California. The gist of the study was to see how kids are in today’s world. Comparing their usage of technological devices, versus how they interact with one another, and more importantly, how they go about handling normal, day-to-day actions. Unfortunately, the research doesn’t paint a good light for the future generation. The researchers suggest that kids are now being taught how to interact with the world virtually, but in the process they are losing how to do simple tasks. Like tie their shoes.

Some of the results include: two-thirds of kids part of the research could use a computer just fine, but only one-third could write their first and last name with a writing utensil. 73% can use a mouse without effort, but only 11 percent can tie their shoes. And, one-in-five know how to use an iPad skillfully, but 48 percent don’t know their own home address.

The argument that these kids are simply learning how to interact with the world in a new fashion, so that they can be successful, seems misguided. Yes, it is a good thing that these kids can use an iPad, a computer, and a mouse. Yes, it’s a good thing that they can email one another, tweet about their (non-existent) classes, or even text message all day. But, if they can’t tie their shoe, something is obviously missing out of the equation.

Perhaps putting teachers back into classrooms, and finding a happy medium to the way that kids interact with technology, from computers to videogames to whatever else, is something that the world needs to strive for. Technology is something that needs to be part of their lives, our lives, but we need to define a line where a student, a child, can understand the usage of an iPad, but can’t tie their shoe. We need to define that line, and draw it in something a bit more permanent than just the sand.

[via CrunchGear]

According to sources familiar with the matter, Times of India is reporting that the primary contractor for the $35 tablet has been dismissed. HCL Infosystems had been tagged as the main vendor of the tablet, but it seems that complications with further demands for new conditions, along with rumors that a Rs 60 crore ($13m USD) bank guarantee couldn’t be reached have lead to the vendor’s removal from the project.

Another interesting note to the story. It seems that the shipping and import costs for the tablet to make its way out of India are rounding up to be about Rs. 5700, or about $124. It will be interesting to see how this extra cost, which is significantly higher than the projected cost of the tablet itself, will affect the final pricing for the device.

[via The Digital Reader]

The newest firmware is v6.37, and details are non-existent. Sony has classified the update as “minimal” one, and only allude to the fact that the update will improve the overall system software stability during use of “some features.” No explanation as to what they’re talking about, or what features they mean, but it looks like the system should get at least a bit smoother in daily operation, if nothing else.

No timetable as to when the update will actually be launched, either. Just “soon.” Will Sony include any special surprises? We’ll just have to wait and see.

[via PlayStation Blog]

Microsoft announced the plan opening later this year on their official Twitter account earlier this morning. “Later this year” is actually sooner than later, as Microsoft plans on officially opening the doors for the first time some time this Spring. As of right now, Microsoft is still shying away from the East coast, but the company still has a six-store expansion planned for this year alone, and so it would seem likely that a store would open in New York City in that timeframe.

[via CNET]

The iOS 4.3 Beta 2 is build number 8F5153d, and it measures in at 607MB for the iPad, and a whopping 679MB for the iPhone. It’s available for the tablet device, iPhone, and iPod Touch, as was the first Beta. As of right now, details about the newest version of OS are still hidden inside for developers to find. If you find anything, let us know in the comments below.

You’ll need to be signed up for the Apple Developer Program to get your shot at the latest Beta build.

[via Apple]

The problem was originally reported about at the beginning of January. Windows Phone 7 owners were reporting large amounts of 3G data being gobbled up, even when they were connected to a WiFi network. So, Microsoft says that they’ve figured out what the cause is, and they’re taking the necessary steps to fix it. However, what they’re not saying, is what actually caused the issue. They company is being vague about the whole thing:

A “third-party solution” that “commonly accessed from Windows Phones.” That’s what’s causing the larger than expected data downloads. There could be some additional root causes, but Microsoft isn’t sure about that. It’s currently being investigated. The company also added that they will “update with additional information and guidance.” That seems odd, considering they weren’t doing that in the first place, nor did they send out this report that they had discovered the cause of the problem to anyone, other than Eaton after being directly asked about it.

Whatever the reason Microsoft has decided to stay quiet about this, as long as it gets fixed, it’s probably not a big deal to most customers. However, with how open the company has been about updates and other issues, it seems strange that they would stay quiet regarding something like this. Hopefully, if we stay tuned, Microsoft will let us know what’s going on before too long.

[via WindowsPhoneSecrets]

The proximity sensor in a phone is meant to make sure that your screen turns off, and the multitouch functions are disabled for a short time, so that you don’t do anything crazy with your cheek while you’re on a call. So, for the proximity sensor to show up in the iPad 2, a tablet device that Apple surely doesn’t intend for you to put up to your face, rumors obviously spiked. However, the real purpose behind the sensor is probably pretty simple: to react to a case.

We’ve got to agree with AppAdvice and BlogDoiPhone, in that we would agree that having the sensor react to the iPad 2 being in a case would be a pretty simple inclusion, but one that would be warmly welcomed. Having the device lock on its own when you close the case, and then wake up when you open the case back up would be a pretty cool addition to the tablet device.

[via AppAdvice]

In the United States, both retailers GameStop and Amazon seem to have 3DS titles listed between $39.99 and $49.99. Major videogame retailer Game in the United Kingdom has confirmed on their own side that they believe software will have a standardized price of £39.99, but other UK retailers seem to be contradicting that statement, with some games listing at lower prices of £32.99.

Finally, Joystiq scanned over Amazon France, and found that prices range from €49.95 to €59.95. Obviously Nintendo believes that the 3D technology, and the advanced graphics of the titles available on the 3DS warrant a price increase, but it will remain to be seen whether or not gamers think the same. Anyone still thinking about pre-ordering?

[via Joystiq]

The Ocean Empire has 4,305 square feet of solar panels installed on its frame. There are large areas of the ship that have been labeled “fishing accommodations.” And, a pair of hydroponic farms. The solar panels are capable of capture somewhere near 70 kW of power, while the 861 square-foot skysail is able to grab another 200 kW of power on its own.

However, that’s not all. The designers also included a Motion Damping Regeneration system, which will make sure that the super yacht doesn’t capsize in rough waters. The system is also capable of pulling down another 50 kW of power in its own right. If you find yourself on the Ocean Empire at some point in the future, it looks like you won’t ever have to worry about running out of power, as there’s plenty of different ways the ship will attain it, and then provide it.

[via DVICE]

We already know that widespread retail availability of the iPhone 4 for Verizon’s network is going to non-existent at launch. Both Apple and Verizon confirmed that it could take a few weeks before other retailers get their hands on the device, and it looks like Best Buy is taking it personal. The image, which you can see above, is supposedly taken from an internal training document for Best Buy employees. It’s the manual they are supposed to use to help with their daily interactions with customers. The document seemingly goes on a tangent about how the iPhone 4 isn’t a 4G-capable device, and is “stuck” on Verizon’s 3G speeds:

“Verizon’s entire presence at CES last week was focused on one thing and one thing alone: 4G. Its LTE network is now live in 38 markets and a flurry of 4G phones will launch in the coming months. But the iPhone… the smartphone millions of Verizon Wireless subscribers have been dying for… is a 3G device.

We knew Verizon’s iPhone 4 would be a CDMA phone for a number of reasons, but 3G is so 2010. Sprint launched its first 4G phone with minimal WiMAX coverage and it ended up being the fastest-selling phone in the carrier’s history. Now, we won’t see a 4G iPhone from Verizon until 2012. That means while millions of Android phones are surfing Verizon’s 4G airwaves later this year, iPhones will still be puttering along at EVDO speeds.”

The interesting part? Best Buy took that above passage from a recent article that was posted on Boy Genius Report. There’s even an extra line in the internal document that says, “Post updated to remove a reference to FaceTime over 3G, which will not be available on Verizon iPhone 4.” While BGR says this isn’t the first time Best Buy has used wording from them, it seems like an odd thing for Best Buy to do.

Some are speculating that Best Buy is taking this route due to the fact that they won’t be selling the Verizon iPhone 4 at launch, and therefore are actually “upset” about it. The result? A training manual that seems to be telling employees to skirt customers away from the Verizon version, and apparently get them into anything else.

[via BGR]

In the Miami-Dade Public School district, 7,000 students are currently enrolled in a virtual classroom, or e-learning lab. These students take core classes, like Math or English, on a computer, instead of learning the material from a teacher standing in front of them, or interacting with them personally. Instead, a “facilitator” walks around, helping give technical advice about the computers, or answer generalized questions when they can. The main job of the facilitator seems to be just to make sure the kids aren’t screwing around, and using the computers for their intended use.

The reason behind this shift in learning methodology has a lot to do with Florida’s Class Side Reduction amendment, which was passed in 2002. The amendment means that there’s not to be more than 25 students in a core subject classroom. The amendment is focused on a classroom, so sticking more children in a e-learning center seems to be perfectly acceptable.

Interestingly enough, there seems to be a small amount of students that were given the option of taking the virtual class, instead of being put into an actual classroom with a teacher. The majority of the students were automatically enrolled, though, with no option given. Teachers haven’t been completely phased out, though. If a student has a question regarding something based on the material, they can ask a teacher (through some kind of messaging system on the computer), and get a timely response.

[via Mobile Magazine]

Microsoft sees the Kinect peripheral as an open platform now, but there’s no doubt that the Redmond-based company would want those out there to use their official drivers, as well as an SDK that they created. Steve Ballmer, at this past Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, wouldn’t give an exact date, but he did say that the company was looking at supporting the Windows-based PC for Kinect usage in the future. His answer was vague enough that the time table is pretty wide open.

The information comes from unnamed sources that are reportedly “familiar with the matter,” and so right now it seems that we’ve got to label this one as a rumor, and nothing more. However, with Microsoft openly saying that they support the open platform that Kinect was built upon, and semi-confirming upcoming support for Windows, it seems like it’s only going to be a matter of time before we start seeing some official PC support. That only seems to further the question: is your Kinect collecting dust, or not?

[via CNET]

The trademark covers plenty of devices, making sure not to name one specifically. It actually covers not only products, but also services. However, “tablet computers” is the one many are most interested in. With HP’s webOS announcement right around the corner, it’s likely that the tablet devices we’ve seen hit the Internet will be officially named and detailed. Whether or not Topaz and Opal, which are currently the codenames for the tablet devices, stick around remains to be seen.

It’s also possible that the Touchpad name falls under a product lineup, featuring tablets and other devices of that sort, and not one particular tablet (or other device) specifically. We’ll have to wait and see if the HP Touchpad name pops up anywhere else.

[via PocketNow]

It’s not a major dashboard update, but Microsoft has officially added a previously removed feature to the non-gaming console, and promises that a few more tweaks are still incoming. This particular dashboard update, while bringing back to the “Boot-to-Disc” option, is meant for one thing, and one thing only: to stop pirates from using the Xbox 360 console. And, if forum members are any indicator, it looks like Microsoft has been successful so far.

The update is officially known as the “Anti-PIracy 2.5 update.” The update removes the option for owners of a flashed Xbox 360 firmware to load bootleg titles on their console. The update itself is mandatory if you want to play on Xbox LIVE. The update does indeed bring back “Boot-to-Disc,” which was a feature that was removed in a previous update to try and stop illegal usage of bootleg games.

As for those subtle tweaks, Major Nelson says that the GamerCards that players use will be changed. You won’t be able to see which “Gamer Zone” another player is in, and the cards will be taking a darker shade. The changes to the gamer cards will be implemented on January 20th. You can see a video below of the new dashboard update in action.

[via WinRumors]

Starting January 23rd, new AT&T customers will have two options when it comes to their text messaging plans. The first is $10 per month for 1,000 text messages. The second is $20 for an unlimited amount of text messages. If you’re in a family plan, or you’re going to start up a family plan, then it will be $30 per month for unlimited text messages.

That means AT&T is dropping the $5 per month for 200 text messages, and the $15 per month for 1,500 text messages. As is common with a change of plan features, if you’re currently on one of the plans that’s getting dropped, you’ll be able to “grandfather” in, and keep them. However, new customers will have only two options beginning on the 23rd of January. AT&T hasn’t confirmed the change, as of the time of this writing.

[via GearLive]

Doktor Jutta Kella of the Hamburg uni internal-medicine department, along with her colleagues, are the brains behind the new swallowable capsule. The capsule is controlled on the inside of a person’s body courtesy of a powerful external, hand-held magnet. This makes it possible for doctor’s to pinpoint where, exactly, they want the capsule to go, and record images of the internals with the integrated video camera.

The doctor’s created the new device by altering the body of a current probe. They installed magnetic discs to the outside of the capsule. The doctors in Germany were able to test out the new capsule in 10 healthy individuals, who had to swallow sherbet powder, along with the magnetized probes. The powder would help the patient’s stomachs loosen up, letting doctors see inside much easier.

The results showed that the little capsule was able to send pictures at 4 frames per second, which provides the doctors a real-time look inside someone’s body. The initial tests within the 10 individuals was meant to test the safety of the device, and to find out if it worked better, or just as well, than the current options doctors have for looking into the human body.

[via The Register]

There’s no special pricing for those who want to pre-order the 3D gaming unit. It will still cost you $249.99. Amazon is limiting the amount you can pre-order though, saying that there can only be one console per household. The digital retailer points out that you’ll be able to take 3D photos with the 3DS, and even watch 3D videos. You’ll be able to connect to other 3DS gamers in select titles, along with Nintendo’s SpotPass and StreetPass.

Now that the 3DS from Nintendo has a launch date and pricing, and now we know which games will be making their way to the mobile gaming unit before too long, who out there is going to drop down the cash to get their hands on it?

[via Amazon]

The unnamed source was up-front about the measurements of the two tablets. The Opal, which we know is the 7-inch webOS-based tablet, will measure in at around 180 x 144 x 13mm, which means it will be about the same size as Samsung’s Galaxy Tab Android-based tablet, albeit slightly shorter and wider. The capacitive touchscreen display will feature a TFT LCD with a resolution of 1,024 x 768. While the Topaz, the 9-inch version, will measure in at 241 x 190 x 13mm — or practically identical to the measurements seen in the current generation iPad from Apple. Unfortunately, the source wasn’t sure what the resolution of the Topaz will be, but suggested that it could be the same as what the Opal’s. A good bonus, though: it looks like HP will be including their Beats premium audio processing.

As for storage, the tablets won’t be hindered by the physical storage on the devices. HP and Palm have made sure that there will be “tens of gigabytes” made available up in the cloud, for each tablet owner.

Some additional information regarding the Topaz and Opal webOS tablets may have been revealed in a recent consumer survey, which was conducted by GfK Custom Research North America. While the survey doesn’t mention HP or Palm, or even webOS specifically, there are mentions of “Synergy,” along with talk about a feature called “Touchstone.” The survey asks if people would be interested in using programmable wireless charging docks that would change their tablet device into a digital photo frame, or an alarm clock. Features that we’ve seen in webOS 2.0′s Exhibition mode.

And then there’s one additional feature worth mentioning: Tap-to-Share. By “tapping” two tablets together, owners will be able to easily transfer content like web pages, or a document, from one device to another. Furthermore, it sounds like HP’s focus on cloud storage may come in handy in the way that applications are loaded. It may be even possible to run some applications, and saved documents, right from the cloud storage. This is apparently a move from HP to make the laptop the new desktop, so that while someone is out and about, they only need their tablet.

Other mentions are features we’ve seen in webOS 2.0: Flash support, and “true multitasking.” Of course, it’s good to see that these features are being carried over to the tablet experience. On a lesser note, it sounds like the tipster does know that HP and Palm are planning on launching handsets, but that what they have seen is “nothing too amazing.”

[via Engadget]

In an interview with Eurogamer, Bilson says that right now, it still costs developers a small fortune to make games for the current generation hardware. If Microsoft and Sony were to announce a new console, say the PlayStation 4 or Xbox 720, Bilson doesn’t know how they’d be able to up the graphics, and content, without forcing people to pay $100 for the game. And that doesn’t mean the special edition.

“It still costs us a fortune to make games on this platform. If they’re going to up the scale, up the art, up the content, I don’t know how to make that and sell it to anybody for under $100 a game.” He adds, “Who wants to do that? It’s bad for everybody.”

Bilson makes an effort to suggest that a new console, from anyone, isn’t necessary right now. He still sees a lot of potential coming from the software side of things, where developers can still create engaging, beautiful titles that draw gamers in. He says that creativity and style are more important than the physical power of a console.

What do you think? Even if the current generation consoles haven’t been completely tapped of their full potential, do you think it’s time for Microsoft and Sony (and Nintendo) to announce a new, better console than what they’ve currently got available?

[via Eurogamer]

The NoteSlate is a concept tablet right now, but the manufacturers hope to have it available for purchase soon. The tablet features a new ePaper screen technology, which allows for the display to have one color shown at one time: red, blue, green and black models are the ones being planned for now. However, the company does have plans of creating a tablet that can do all four colors. The tablet features a 13-inch capacitive touchscreen display, with a resolution of 750 x 1080.

It’s designed for those who want to draw, take notes, and save what they want — or delete what they don’t — in an easy fashion. Unfortunately, considering it’s just a concept right now, with talk about the tablet heading to manufacturing in just a short while, we’re not so positive this will see the light of day. But, they company is already looking ahead to a future software update, which will provide PDF support. They also suggest that the battery life will last weeks, and weigh in at only 240g.

[via The Digital Reader]

Volvo believes that the road train technology could promote fuel usage, reduce the amount of congestion on roads, and promote safety for some drivers. For a tired driver, being able to find a semi-autonomous convoy to take over the trip for a certain amount of miles could be the difference between a successful arrival at their destination, and a catastrophic accident.

The test was conducted by Volvo at their test track, but it was in part conducted by the European Commission, as part of a research project called Sartre — Safe Road Trains for the Environment. The test was proven a success after the test car was able to get behind the lead car, and then hand over control of the convoy to the lead car ahead of it. In the video (which you can watch here), we see the driver of the car completely remove their hands from the steering wheel, and then even begin reading a newspaper and drinking their coffee.

In the lead vehicle, the convoy is told to speed up, slow down, or steer when necessary. Sensors in all vehicles would make sure that they keep a safe distance from one another while in the convoy, as well as other cars on the road. The idea is to be able to string together more cars than just one, and have the same results. The results of the first real world test mean that the designers believe that the technology behind Sartre could be used in the wild in just a few years.

[via BBC]

According to the seller, it was quite a bit of work to figure out who Banksy really is. “I have uncovered [Banksy's] identity by matching up the prices of his sold pieces to corresponding tax records. I will reveal no more details… I give you 100 percent assurance that it is most certainly the full name of the street artist known as ‘Banksy.’” This actually isn’t the first time that Banksy’s true identity has been offered up on eBay, but that original auction was pulled because eBay said the seller wasn’t offering up a tangible item.

This time around, though, the seller was offering up a piece of paper with a name on it. That’s a tangible item, so there’s still a question swirling around why eBay would pull this latest bid. The seller started the sale at $3,000, and it was pulled after 36 bids, with a whopping $999,999 as the final bid. You can see The Simpson’s opening Banksy created below, if you’re unfamiliar with the creation, or just want to see it again.

[via GearLog]

The Leica X1 BMW Special Edition camera features the same 12MP CMOS sensor, and the F2.8 24mm optics that the original X1 features. The differences come in the different skin on the BMW special edition, along with “BMW” stamped onto the top of the camera. Other than that, the Leica X1 BMW Special Edition camera is exactly the same as the standard issue version.

The cost? $3,500. That’s compared to the $2,600 that the original costs.

[via CrunchGear]

The purchase of NBC Universal by Comcast has been approved by the FCC, in a 4-to-1 vote. The details of what’s to come next are still being ironed out we imagine, and therefore haven’t been made public quite yet. Commissioner Michael Copps was the only one to vote no on the proposed purchase.

Details of the proceeding are expected to be released soon. However, the Justice Department still needs to put their two cents in on the deal. They are expected to look at the FCC approval next week.

[via CNBC]

Facebook’s self-service ad platform is seeing a lot of business as of late. The popular social networking site has seen a worldwide advertising revenue increase of 86% versus the previous year’s results, courtesy of the $1.86 billion in revenue in took in. Of that, $1.21 billion was earned within the United States, adds the analyst.

The main takeaway of the results, though, is where the majority of the money is coming from. According to eMarketer, 60 percent –or $1.12 billion– stems from small- or medium-sized business that are more than likely using self-serve tools to advertise on the social website. That’s compared to the $740 million that’s being produced by major marketers, like Coke, Match.com, and P&G. According to Debra Williamson, the principal analyst at eMarketer, these small- and medium-sized businesses are taking advantage of Facebook’s rapid growth (which now has over 650 million users), and using the strategies they used to promote themselves on Google to do the same thing on Facebook.

Williamson adds that, “Facebook is the biggest storehouse of consumer data on the internet.” With that being said, it’s no surprise that marketers and advertisers, and anyone else that can prosper from the data that Facebook collects every day, is flocking to the social networking website.

[via AdAge]

A source has sent Engadget the first renders of the tablet device that HP and Palm have been working on. According to the source, HP is working on a pair of tablet devices. Topaz, which we’ve heard about in the past, is the 9-inch variation, while the Opal is the 7-inch, smaller version. The render doesn’t do much to show us what will actually be coming to market later this year, and into 2012, but there are a few interesting things to take away from it.

There’s a microUSB port on the bottom, and the design of the tablet seems to feature a three-speaker layout. There doesn’t seem to be any hardware buttons on the device, which goes right in-line with what we’ve heard in the past. While it’s a tablet device, we imagine that HP and Palm have made it so that the device can be rotated. With that in mind, while we can see that there’s a gesture area right above the microUSB port, Engadget believes it will probably rotate with the display. At the top of the device, there seems to be a front-facing camera.

Details about the devices, both the Topaz and Opal, are still non-existent at this point. Word about a release date, let alone the specifications and pricing of the tablet devices, are still up in the air at this point. Though, we don’t imagine that HP and Palm will not showcase at least one, if not both, of these tablets at their press event right around the corner. A captured screenshot does suggest that an LTE-based version of the Opal will be launching on Verizon’s network in September, 2011. While an LTE-based AT&T model won’t be popping up in stores until July, 2012.

[via Engadget]

Published in CIO, Al Sacco reports that an unnamed, trusted source tells him that RIM is getting ready to unveil the device for a late March, early April unveil on AT&T’s 3G network. But, that’s not all. RIM’s not just focusing on WiMax for their 4G-enabled tablet device. It looks like LTE is getting some attention as well. The source retrieved this information from a carrier representative from AT&T, who says that the device should hit the time table that RIM s aiming for.

Unfortunately, RIM is being tight-lipped about the information. No confirmation about a 3G-enabled, or LTE-based BlackBerry PlayBook have been announced by the company as of yet. But, it would make sense for RIM to get their tablet out to every carrier possible, especially one that connects to 3G.

[via IntoMobile]