In fact, there’s apparently talk of content providers moving to block their sites from supporting Google TV, similar to how Hulu has blocked their streaming shows from being viewed through Boxee.  For their part, the networks are publicly tentative; CBS senior VP Anthony Soohoo told the WSJ that the company would be keen to work with “potential partners who value our content” and that a “key next step is gaining an understanding of Google’s business model for the product and how it relates back to content owners such as CBS.”

Insiders, though, say that Google is yet to pin down that elusive content model, and that in fact may be looking to build user adoption before trying to monetize Google TV.  The system adds a layer of search on top of regular TV services, using contextual cues to suggest matching online media from YouTube and other sources which can then be viewed via the Google TV box (which may be integrated into HDTVs).  Recently the company acquired Texas Instruments’ cable STB division, prompting speculation that they might integrate Google TV services into the future product range.

However, beyond that the details and specifications of the Google Chrome OS tablet are unknown.  Some are tipping NVIDIA’s Tegra 2 as the likely choice for the Google-branded hardware, though that would be a departure for HTC which has generally stuck with Qualcomm for their mobile chipsets.  Otherwise it’s likely to be a case of the usual capacitive touchscreen, integrated WiFi, GPS and Bluetooth (along with EVDO Rev.A) and a webcam.

It’s not the only tablet that’s believed to be headed to Verizon, with slates from Motorola, Samsung and RIM both making headlines over the past few weeks.  These are expected to slot into different niches within the tablet segment, with the so-called BlackBerry BlackPad being a companion device for business and enterprise users, while the Motorola slate is tipped to have tighter integration with Verizon’s FiOS TV service

Amazon are crediting “overwhelming demand” for the Libretto’s sell-out status, and saying that they’re not sure when – or even if – the ultraportable will come back into stock.  Of course we don’t actually know exactly how many units Amazon had in-stock to begin with, but the W100 did manage to climb to number 29 in the retailer’s Top 100 of bestselling computer & electronics items.

For now, until we know whether Toshiba will be sending Amazon any more, the only way to find a W100 in the US is via importers.  It’s an expensive route, though, with Japanese imports priced at $1,400+.

Toshiba Libretto W100 hands-on:

[via Twitter]

Connectivity is via a 2.4GHz USB dongle, which stows in a compartment under the mouse during transportation.  There’s also a battery indicator and physical power control, while the actual mousing is done by Microsoft’s Blue Track system which should make for some decent accuracy.

According to the retailer, the Microsoft Arc Touch Mouse will go on sale from October 13th priced at €69.99 ($90), in-line with what Apple are asking for the Magic Trackpad and Magic Mouse in Germany.  US pricing is expected to be $69.95.

[via Engadget]

That would certainly fit in with T-Mobile’s suggestion that the G2 with Google will be the “successor” to the T-Mobile G1, the first Android device on the market and which used a hardware QWERTY keyboard itself.  However, recent leaks have tipped a number of T-Mobile phones running Android, so we’ll have to wait until the carrier makes things official to know for sure.

It shouldn’t be too long a wait, though; we’re told there’ll be more news “in the coming weeks”.  T-Mobile are also promising early access to the G2 to existing subscribers.

Statement

T-Mobile is proud to have launched the world’s first Android-powered phone, the T-Mobile G1, which captured the imagination of developers and consumers alike nearly two years ago. Now, we are readying its successor – the T-Mobile G2 with Google. Delivering tight integration with Google services, the G2 will break new ground as the first smartphone specifically designed for our advanced HSPA+ network, which delivers today’s available 4G speeds. In the coming weeks we’ll share more details about the G2, including information on how current T-Mobile customers can get exclusive first access. Visit http://g2.t-mobile.com to register for updates.

The big comparison many are making is the iPhone 4, which Apple has claimed sold 1.7m units in its first three days of availability.  Analysts have blamed slow corporate client adoption for the Torch, together with the imminent arrival of the BlackBerry 6 OS for older devices; RIM has already confirmed that the BlackBerry Bold 9700, Bold 9650 and Pearl 3G will all get upgrades to the new version of their software, and that could be encouraging owners of those devices to stick with the hardware they already have.

Already, the Torch is down to $99.99 when bought through Amazon, though AT&T are still selling the smartphone for $199.99 (both with a new, two-year agreement).  For more on the Torch 9800, check out our full review.

That display measures in at 3.5-inches, and shares fascia space with an NXT loudspeaker powered by an 8W class D amp.  There’s also stereo RCA, AUX-IN, 3.5mm headphone and iPod/iPhone video out connectors, together with Last.fm support.

The REVO AXiS will go on sale in the UK from September 1st 2010, priced at £199.95 ($314).

Press Release:

REVO announces first sub £200 colour touchscreen digital radio with multi-format reception and iPod/iPhone connectivity

Lanark, Scotland, 17th August 2010: AXiS represents the next generation of ‘connected’ digital radio devices that combine advanced multi-format radio reception, iPod and iPhone docking, wireless audio streaming and access to premium online music services such as Last.fm.
AXiS is capable of receiving a full range of digital radio standards including DAB, DAB+ and internet radio (over 13,000 stations from around the world) – as well as conventional FM radio with RDS. AXiS will also stream digital music files from any ‘connected’ PC or Apple Mac.
This compact radio features a 3.5” colour TFT touchscreen display, and is controlled via an icon-driven user interface, enabling quick and easy navigation around the radio’s many advanced features.
AXiS boasts impressive audio clarity and bass response, courtesy of its 8W class D amplifier and NXT’s patented Balanced Radiator (BR) loudspeaker technology. BR drive units combine the performance attributes of an NXT flat panel speaker, with the pistonic movement of a conventional loudspeaker, the effect is a high performance compact drive unit that can cover a wider range of frequencies. The result is a smooth frequency response, expansive sound stage and satisfying bass.
Completing the hardware picture, AXiS provides advanced connectivity for all generations of iPod and iPhone, and is equipped with stereo RCA, AUX-IN, 3.5mm headphone and iPod/iPhone video out connectors as standard.
Revo Technologies CEO, David Baxter, said “With AXiS we have taken the unique multi- platform feature set and icon driven interface of our groundbreaking IKON ‘touch’ radio, and re-housed it in a beautifully compact minimalist design, perfect for desktop or bedside use – all for the breakthrough price of £199.95.”
In addition to its terrestrial and internet radio capabilities, AXiS will also provide access to online music service Last.fm. Simply choose an artist or genre and let Last.fm build the perfect playlist from its library of 5 million tracks – unique to the user, and fresh every time. Alternatively, an existing Last.fm profile can be used.
AXiS includes a free 31 day Last.fm trial subscription, thereafter a £3.00 per month subscription charge applies.
AXiS is the result of a long and fruitful collaboration between Revo Technologies and Frontier Silicon, the industry leader in connected audio technology. At the heart of REVO’s AXiS radio is Frontier Silicon’s new multi-standard Venice 8 module.
AXiS has an SRP of £199.95 and will be available from the 1st of October 2010 from John Lewis, Marks and Spencer, Apple Store, Comet, Selfridges, Harrods and Next Directory.
AXiS can be pre-ordered online by visiting www.revo.co.uk, www.hughesdirect.co.uk, www.advancedmp3players.co.uk, www.petertyson.co.uk, www.superfi.co.uk or www.firebox.co.uk.

The question is, now that Apple has secured the IP for the two systems, how they will then respond to other smartphone and mobile device manufacturers who have used similar UIs for their own products.  The pop-up keyboard indicators are particularly common, as touchscreen-only devices have proliferated.

[via GoRumors]

Find out how to get a free Pogoplug Wireless Extender after the cut

To celebrate the price reduction, Pogoplug are offering existing owners a free Wireless Extender dongle.  To find out more, check out the company’s Facebook page; basically, you email them with your purchase details from a registered Pogoplug device address.

We’re checking on when the Pogoplug Wireless Extender will begin shipping, and the company tells us the price reduction on the Pogoplug itself should take place online sometime later today.  More details on the Pogoplug in our review.

Press Release:

Pogoplug Gets a Wireless “Little Buddy”

Our #1 requested feature now resolved: Wireless Adapter enables Pogoplugs to be placed anywhere in the home; existing users can get it for free!
Pogoplug is giving people what they want. Our customers have bombarded us with requests to add wireless connectivity to the Pogoplug, and we heard the message, loud and clear. Starting today, anyone can pre-order the Pogoplug Wireless Extender that makes any existing Pogoplug fully WiFi-enabled. Now users can place the Pogoplug anywhere in their homes without having to permanently connect it to a network router or wired Ethernet port.
The Pogoplug Wireless Extender is compatible with all previous versions of Pogoplugs and the recently announced Pogoplug Biz. Other recent improvements we’ve added to the Pogoplug include cloud printing, the updated Pogoplug Android application, the ability to share and collaborate on documents directly on the Pogoplug, and a very simple system of email upload. We are constantly striving to make the Pogoplug even better, and we would love to hear what your experience has been and how we can improve it. Keep sending those emails!
The Pogoplug Wireless Extender will work on 802.11 b/g/n networks and is available for pre-order now for $29.
In addition to the introduction of the new Wireless Extender, we are reducing the price of the current Pogoplug from $129 to $99.
Because of this price move and as a thank you to existing Pogoplug owners there is a special limited time offer; any existing owner of a Pogoplug can receive a promo code to get the new Wireless Adapter for free. To find out how, visit our Facebook page or our website support page.
The standard model Pogoplug can be ordered starting today for $99 at www.pogoplug.com.

Other specs include an FM radio, 5-megapixel camera and a bundled 16GB microSD card.  It’s small, too, measuring in at 9.6mm x 106mm x 48mm and weighing 78g; according to Nokia Conversations battery life is rated at five hours talk time or 17 days on standby.

Nokia expect to launch the X3-02 in China, Ireland & UK, Russia, Australia & New Zealand, Singapore, Germany, Spain & Portugal, France, Mexico and Saudi & Yemen initially, before looking to other markets.  More details in the videos below.

Press Release:

Nokia debuts ‘Touch and Type’ design with the latest Nokia X3

Espoo, Finland – In a move to continue driving innovation in its market leading mobile phone range, Nokia today unveils the super slim Nokia X3 Touch and Type, with a unique combination of a touch screen and traditional 12 button phone keypad. As Nokia’s first ‘Touch and Type’ phone, the Nokia X3 allows people to tap quickly on the bright color touch screen, as well as enjoy the familiarity of the full keypad for quick fire text messages and phone calls. Expected to be on sale in the third quarter, the Nokia X3 is expected to retail for approximately EUR 125, excluding taxes and subsidies.

“Innovation is not just a high-end game. The Nokia X3 is a great example of bringing new consumer value to lower price points,” said Mary McDowell, Executive Vice President of Mobile Phones at Nokia.

“With the Nokia X3 we are giving consumers the best of both worlds by combining a touch screen and a keypad in an affordable device. We have given people a larger screen with clear icons and menus plus kept critical keys such as the send and end keys. We’ve also added dedicated function keys for important links like music and text messaging,” she said.

“We have designed the Nokia X3 to be a touch and type device because typing is ideal for SMS and social networking where fast and frequent input is needed, while touch is ideal for functions such as setting alarms, smooth browsing and controlling applications like music and games.

“Our research tells us consumers who have invested years in becoming fast one-handed, one-thumb texters want to maintain their speedy edge for SMS, chat and instant messaging – yet enjoy the benefits of touch as well,” continued McDowell.

With its sleek and modern design coming in at a very thin 9.6mm – making it one of the slimmest Nokia phones ever – the Nokia X3 slips easily into the purse or the pocket, and looks the part with its brushed aluminum back cover which will come in five vibrant colors designed to suit any mood or wardrobe.

Despite its size, the Nokia X3 is jam-packed with features including 3G, WLAN, a music player and an FM radio.

Lovers of the snapshot and social networks will enjoy a great 5 megapixel camera with 4X digital zoom that can take both still and video images.

The Nokia X3 also features dedicated music and messaging keys allowing fast access to important Ovi services including social and entertainment applications. In addition to Ovi Mail, people’s favorite consumer email and chat accounts can be pushed direct to the phone via Nokia Messaging.

With a gentle glide over the touch screen people can go online and get access to many services including thousands of apps from Ovi Store. In certain markets, the new phone will also be available with Ovi Music Unlimited, enabling the owner to access a virtually limitless range of the latest hit music that can be stored on the available 16GB memory card.

The Nokia X3 – affordable and accessible touch and type which is simple-to-use and beautifully designed. The Nokia X3 Touch and Type sits alongside the Nokia X3-00, a slider with strong music functionality, which was launched in September 2009.

The Nokia Mini Speaker MD-11. Pocket-sized speakers for big sound

Music lovers can boost the Nokia X3′s inbuilt speaker with some extra ‘oomph’ with the new MD-11, a light pocket-size speaker with great audio quality. For even more fun, you can connect two for stereo sound – a great way to get the music out of your phone and enjoy with friends. The Nokia Mini Speaker MD-11 is estimated to retail for EUR 25 excluding taxes and subsidies.

There’s also plenty of reading preference settings, such as themes suited to day or nighttime reading, and B&N’s LendMe system is also supported.  The iPad version of the app also gets a rating feature, too.

All of the B&N NOOK eReader apps are free downloads.

Press Release:

Barnes & Noble Enhances Free eReading Software Offering with NOOK™ for iPhone®, iPad™ and PC

Completely New iPhone Application Delivers The Most Easy-to-Use, Customizable iPhone and iPod touch® Reading Experience

NOOK for iPad Updated with First “Rate” Feature on eReading Software

Only eReading Software and Apps to Offer eBook Lending

New York, New York – August 17, 2010 – Barnes & Noble, Inc. (NYSE: BKS), the world’s largest bookseller, today enhanced its offering of popular, free NOOK-branded eReading software with updated versions for iPhone, iPod touch, iPad and PC (available at www.bn.com/NOOKapps).

Completely new, the next-generation NOOK for iPhone application delivers the most personalized and easy-to-use eReading experience for iPhone and iPod touch owners. NOOK for iPad adds customer-requested, in-app content rating and other improvements to the company’s popular iPad app, and NOOK for PC brings new branding to the company’s desktop software. “Read what you love, anywhere you like”™ with the entire family of free NOOK eReading software and apps, which enables mobile device and computer users to shop more than one million digital titles in the Barnes & Noble eBookstore, access eBooks from their personal Barnes & Noble digital library and use the company’s breakthrough LendMe™ technology to share eBooks with friends.

Taking a page from the company’s popular, highly customizable NOOK for iPad application, Barnes & Noble gives NOOK for iPhone users the ability to tailor the way they consume content, offering a simple, attractive reading experience from the handheld device. Users can create completely personalized or utilize professionally designed themes, and optimize content for day or night reading, with one-tap options and a preview before settings are changed. With unparalleled customization features, the NOOK for iPhone app offers customers the ability to choose from millions of colors for fonts, backgrounds or links, as well as the option to control screen brightness to make reading on the iPhone easy and comfortable. Barnes & Noble designed the NOOK for iPhone to optimize eBook cover art and text on the new iPhone 4’s Retina display, and it also works well on earlier iPhone and iPod touch models.

The new NOOK for iPhone also offers more choice than ever before in an iPhone eReading app: line spacing, font style and sizes, and justification can be adjusted according to user preference. Customers can also opt to use the publisher’s original setting to view the eBook exactly as the publisher and author intended. NOOK for iPhone offers portrait or landscape viewing; one-touch access to highlight, make notes or bookmark a page; and the ability to easily delete samples from within the application. Learn more or get the new application at www.bn.com/NOOKforiPhone and www.itunes.com/appstore.

“We are committed to offering an easy-to-use, comfortable, and fun NOOK eReading experience across multiple platforms. NOOK for iPhone users can shop Barnes & Noble’s vast catalog of eBooks, while enjoying new, customization features and sharing their favorite eBooks with friends for free,” said Douglas Gottlieb, Vice President, Digital Products for Barnes & Noble.com. “NOOK for iPhone puts thousands of eBooks in your pocket, and the reading experience is fantastic. It’s another way that Barnes & Noble’s NOOK offering makes it truly easy to read what you love, anywhere you like.”

Lend eBooks to Friends
Using Barnes & Noble’s innovative and exclusive LendMe technology, customers can share eligible eBooks, easily identified by the LendMe icon, with other NOOK software users. The lending feature, uniquely offered across the NOOK eReading platform, lets friends and family enjoy the eBook for up to 14 days. LendMe recipients have access to a wide variety of eBooks on both the NOOK eBook Reader and their NOOK software-enabled PC, iPad, iPhone, iPod touch, or Android™ smartphone.

Like the iPad application, NOOK for iPhone users can initiate, accept and defer eBook lending right inside the app. The new app also seamlessly integrates LendMe into the device experience, so users can simply send the lend offer by tapping their iPhone or iPod touch contacts for the most streamlined sharing possible. And when NOOK software-enabled iPhone, iPod touch or iPad users receive a LendMe offer, it will appear within the application where they can see the eBook’s cover and the message from their friend.

Get In Sync
NOOK for iPhone users can easily read across multiple devices by syncing the last page read of the last eBook opened on their iPhone or iPod touch with other NOOK software-enabled devices including iPad, Android smartphone (OS 1.6 or higher) or Windows®-based PC desktop, laptop or netbook. NOOK for iPhone also quickly syncs users’ entire library, current reading position, notes, highlights and bookmarks with other NOOK software-enabled devices.
Additional features available in NOOK for iPhone include:
· Shop the expansive Barnes & Noble eBookstore: Search, explore and browse through more than one million eBooks at www.bn.com/ebooks directly by touching Shop from the Library. The vast majority of titles are available for $9.99 or less, there are free samples of all eBooks, and more than a half-million free classics. Learn more from thousands of editorial and customer reviews. Pick a current favorite – Barnes & Noble offers 196 of 205 current New York Times Best Sellers – a classic or anything in between and download it wirelessly in seconds.
· Access your personal Barnes & Noble digital library: All eBooks purchased through the Barnes & Noble eBookstore, including those purchased online, on NOOK eBook Readers and software-enabled devices, are at your fingertips in your Library. Customers with large digital libraries will appreciate the search option that helps them find the desired title quickly.
· Full-featured library: As found on NOOK for iPad, NOOK for iPhone features two library views: Library Grid view for displaying easy-to-read, beautiful covers, and Library List. The Library also provides rich product details for each eBook including the synopsis and easy access to more titles from that author. Users can sort by recently read, author or title, or get to their content faster with an in-book search to locate a particular word or phrase.
· Take notes: Bookmark pages, make highlights and write notes. Simply tap a word or drag your finger across a section to highlight it or make a note. In addition to appearing on your iPhone or iPod touch, your bookmarks, highlights and notes will also appear on an iPad and PC enabled with free NOOK software. Other devices will be added soon.
· Learn more: Touch and hold on a word on the screen and the in-app dictionary looks up the word’s meaning. Want to learn more? Simply tap one of the options to take you to the Google or Wikipedia page on that word or term using the Web browser. Barnes & Noble also makes it easy to get started with a quick start tutorial on first login.
· Follows the standard: Now, iPhone users will read eBooks formatted in ePub, quickly becoming the industry standard.

NOOK for iPad, PC
The NOOK family of devices and software continues to evolve with an update for the iPad app, available at www.bn.com/NOOKforiPad and www.itunes.com/appstore. Complete with a new name, NOOK for iPad continues to differentiate itself from other iPad applications with an industry-first “Rate” feature – a fun and helpful way for users to indicate and easily sort their favorite reads. iPad users can simply tap the stars beneath all of the eBooks in the Library to give each a rating of one to five. NOOK for iPad also includes additional performance enhancements from the previous version.

In addition, today’s announcement also marks the company’s re-introduction of its desktop client as NOOK for PC (available at www.bn.com/NOOKforPC). With the ability to shop the Barnes & Noble eBookstore, access to a customer’s personal Barnes & Noble digital library and share eBooks with friends, NOOK for PC offers customers the ability to enjoy eReading on their Windows-based desktop, laptop or netbook.

As previously noted, the company continues to leverage the strength of its NOOK brand across its entire eReading offerings, including NOOK for Mac®, and more in the coming months, and will continues to update its NOOK software offering with enhanced features in the coming months. For more information on free NOOK software and apps, please visit www.bn.com/NOOKapps.

With Barnes & Noble’s Lifetime Library™, Barnes & Noble customers will always be able to access their digital libraries on BN.com and a variety of devices including dedicated NOOK eBook Readers, previously announced eBook readers powered by the Barnes & Noble eBookstore, and NOOK software-enabled iPad, iPhone, iPod touch, BlackBerry® and Android smartphones, HP computers, PC and Mac.

About NOOK™ from Barnes & Noble
Barnes & Noble’s NOOK brand of eReading products makes it easy to read what you love, anywhere you like™ with a fun, easy-to-use and immersive digital reading experience. With NOOK, customers gain access to Barnes & Noble’s expansive eBookstore of more than one million digital titles, and the ability to enjoy content across the widest variety of devices. NOOK eBook Readers are the most full-featured, dedicated eReading devices on the market, featuring a color touch screen for navigation along with a best-in-class E-Ink® display. NOOK 3G ($199) offers both free 3G wireless and Wi-Fi® connectivity and NOOK Wi-Fi ($149) features Wi-Fi connectivity. In Barnes & Noble stores, customers with NOOK devices can access free Wi-Fi connectivity, enjoy the beta Read In Store™ feature to browse many complete eBooks for free, and the More In Store™ program, which offers free, exclusive content and special promotions. Barnes & Noble is the only company to offer digital lending for a wide selection of eBooks through its LendMe™ technology, available exclusively through NOOK eReading products. Find NOOK devices in Barnes & Noble stores and online at www.nook.com, as well as Best Buy stores and www.bestbuy.com.

In addition to NOOK devices, Barnes & Noble makes it easy for customers to enjoy any book, anytime, anywhere with its free line of NOOK software, available at www.bn.com/NOOKapps. Customers can access and read eBooks from their personal BN digital library on devices including iPad™, iPhone®, iPod touch®, BlackBerry®, Android™ and HTC HD2™ smartphones, HP computers, PC, and Mac®. Barnes & Noble also offers NOOKstudy™ (www.nookstudy.com), an innovative study platform and software solution for higher education.

For more information on NOOK device and eReading software updates, new eBook releases, Free Friday eBooks and more, follow us on www.twitter.com/eBooksBN and www.facebook.com/NOOKBN.

ABOUT BARNES & NOBLE, INC.
Barnes & Noble, Inc. (NYSE: BKS), the world’s largest bookseller and a Fortune 500 company, operates 720 bookstores in 50 states. Barnes & Noble College Booksellers, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Barnes & Noble, also operates 637 college bookstores serving nearly 4 million students and faculty members at colleges and universities across the United States. Barnes & Noble is the nation’s top bookseller brand for the seventh year in a row, as determined by a combination of the brand’s performance on familiarity, quality, and purchase intent; the top bookseller in quality for the second year in a row and the number two retailer in trust, according to the EquiTrend® Brand Study by Harris Interactive®. Barnes & Noble conducts its online business through Barnes & Noble.com (www.bn.com), one of the Web’s largest e-commerce sites, which also features more than one million titles in its eBookstore (www.bn.com/ebooks). Through Barnes & Noble’s NOOKTM eReading product offering, customers can buy and read eBooks on the widest range of platforms, including NOOK eBook Readers, devices from partner companies, and hundreds of the most popular mobile and computing devices using free NOOK software.

General information on Barnes & Noble, Inc. can be obtained via the Internet by visiting the company’s corporate website: www.barnesandnobleinc.com.

NOOK™, NOOKstudy™, LendMe™, Read In Store™, More In Store™, Lifetime Library™ and Read What You Love. Anywhere You Like™ are trademarks of Barnes & Noble, Inc.
Other trademarks referenced in this release are the property of their respective owners.

As you might expect, the Apple peripherals are simply too skinny for even the Air’s slender motherboard to fit inside, so instead a transparent plastic tray has been crafted.  That contains the Air’s guts, and the keyboard and trackpad sit on top; they’re generally unmodified, so that they can be used with other (more powerful) systems.

Originally the undertray was scaled for an older Apple keyboard, so it’s now undergoing some shortening and the port holes are being cut to suit.  When finished, the keyboard-Mac will likely be put into play as an Apple TV replacement, just as ASUS expect their Eee Keyboard to be used.

[via Gizmodo]

According to previous leaks, the HTC Desire HD will be a larger version of the existing Desire, with a 4.3-inch WVGA display like the US-only HTC EVO 4G.  There’s also an 8-megapixel camera and 1GHz Snapdragon processor tipped, together with Android 2.2 Froyo as the OS with HTC’s own Sense interface on top.

SlashGear will be at the HTC event on September 15th 2010 so we’ll have all the details as to what exactly they’re planning then.  Whether it’s WP7 or the Desire HD, one thing is for sure: the big-screen Android smartphone is coming.

So far, all Intel has publicly said is that the company hopes to “provide cable OEMs with an open and powerful platform for delivering innovative and differentiated products to service providers that improve the video, voice and data content experience at home.”  Considering cable provider reluctance was cited as a key barrier to Google TV adoption, having Intel behind some of the STBs would certainly ease their entry into the home entertainment segment.  Intel’s acquisition of the TI unit is expected to be completed in Q4 2010.

Press Release:

Intel to Acquire Texas Instruments’ Cable Modem Unit

SANTA CLARA, Calif., Aug. 16, 2010 – Intel Corporation today announced it has signed an agreement to acquire Texas Instruments’ cable modem product line. The purchase enhances Intel’s focus on the cable industry and related consumer electronics (CE) market segments, where the company’s expertise in building advanced system-on-chip (SoC) products, based on Intel® Atom™ processors, will be applied.

Intel plans to combine Texas Instruments’ best-of-breed Puma product lines with the Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification (DOCSIS) standard technology and Intel SoCs to deliver advanced set top box, residential gateway and modem products for the cable industry. The objective is to provide cable OEMs with an open and powerful platform for delivering innovative and differentiated products to service providers that improve the video, voice and data content experience at home.

“Adding the talents of the Texas Instruments’ cable team to Intel’s efforts to bring its advanced technology to consumer electronics makes for a compelling combination,” said Bob Ferreira, general manager, Cable Segment, Intel’s Digital Home Group. “Intel is focused on delivering SoCs that provide the foundation for consumer electronics devices such as set top boxes, digital TVs, Blu-ray* disc players, companion boxes and related devices. This acquisition specifically strengthens Intel’s product offerings for the continuum of cable gateway products and reinforces Intel’s continued commitment to the cable industry.”

All employees of Texas Instruments’ cable modem team received offers to join Intel at sites in their home countries, primarily Israel, and will become part of Intel’s Digital Home Group. Additional terms of the transaction were not disclosed. The agreement is subject to regulatory review and customary closing conditions. It is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2010.

“Apple made some statements about the suitability of our technology for mobile devices.  I think we’ve proven that the technology is not only suitable but it actually significantly enhances the value on these mobile devices.  They’ve chosen to keep their system closed and we’d rather work with partners who are interested in working with us.  We believe in open systems. We believe in the power of the internet and in customers making choices and I think a lot of the controversy was about their decision at that point. They’ve made their choice. We’ve made ours and we’ve moved on.  It’s a business decision. With the energy and innovation that our company has, we’d rather focus on people who want to deliver the best experience with Flash and there are so many of them.” Shantanu Narayen, CEO, Adobe

The new stance seems a little less antagonistic than Adobe’s previous strategy: blanket ads accusing Apple of being against freedom of choice.  As for whether Adobe is now averse to any future dealings with Apple when it comes to Flash, despite Steve Jobs’ vocal criticism of the platform, Narayen is open-minded.  ”Our doors are open,” he said, “you will have to ask them about their part.”

Meanwhile, the Motorola A956 is tipped as a travel-friendly version of the DROID 2, presumably keeping the smartphone’s QWERTY keyboard and 3.7-inch display but augmenting the CDMA radio with a GSM/UMTS chipset for use abroad.  It’s expected to come in both black and white and arrive imminently.

Finally, the Motorola MZ600 is causing some confusion, with it unclear whether it’s the company’s rumored tablet rival to the iPad or merely a large, MID-style smartphone.  Verizon apparently has 170,000 on order.

As well as the N8 itself, Nokia include a fair few accessories in the box, too.  There’s the usual USB cable, a stereo headset and travel charger, but also the HDMI adapter cable (for plugging in the N8 to your HDTV and outputting up to 720p HD video) and the USB OTG cable which allows the smartphone to access external storage.

There’s more information – together with details on our hands-on report – on the N8 over at its SlashGear Roots page.

Nokia N8 hands-on:

While Conics are charging more for their imported units than we’re expecting the US list price to be, they’re also switching over the Japanese-sourced notebooks to English.  The hardware itself is unchanged: twin 7-inch 1024 x 600 capacitive touchscreens in a clamshell hinge that opens a full 180-degrees (i.e. flat on the table) and work in regular notebook orientation as well as side-by-side as an ereader.

Under the hood is Intel’s 1.2GHz Pentium U5400 paired with 2GB of RAM, a 64GB SSD and – on the model Conics are selling – integrated WiMAX along with the WiFi b/g/n and Bluetooth.  Unfortunately the standard battery is only good for 2hrs runtime, though Conics are also throwing in the 4hr pack as well.

[via Eee-PC.de]

Those traditional high-power chips deliver processing grunt, but also have significant electricity requirements; in contrast, Smooth-Stone say their chips require less energy and less cooling.  Among the investors are ARM, ATIC (Globalfoundries owner and part-owner of AMD), Battery Ventures, Flybridge Capital Partners, Highland Capital Partners and Texas Instruments.

[via Venture Beat]

As with the larger GT25 sets, the two new models support VIERA CAST internet access, with streaming Netflix, Pandora and YouTube support, together with Skype video calls using the company’s webcam peripheral.  A USB port can be used to add a WiFi dongle, external storage or even a keyboard.

Of course they’re both Full HD too, with 24p cinematic playback and a 2D-to-3D converter.  The new 42-inch Panasonic VIERA TC-P42G25 3D HDTV has an MSRP of $1699.95, while the 50-inch TC-P50GT25 has an MSRP of $2099.95.  Both will hit stores later this month.

Press Release:

PANASONIC EXPANDS ITS LINE OF FULL HD 3D VIERA PLASMA TVS

New VIERA GT25 Full HD 3D Plasma Series Introduces New 42-inch Class and 50-inch Class Screen Sizes

SECAUCUS, NJ (August 16, 2010) – Panasonic, a worldwide leader in Full HD 3D1 technology, announced today the expansion of its award-winning line of Full HD 3D VIERA® Plasma TVs with the launch of the Panasonic VIERA GT25 Series of Full HD 3D Plasma TVs2. The series will feature Panasonic’s first 42-inch class (41.6” measured diagonally) Full HD 3D Plasma TV, broadening Panasonic’s range of Full HD 3D TV offerings and addressing consumer requests for a smaller 3D set for video gaming.

The VIERA GT25 Series features 42-inch class (41.6” measured diagonally) and 50-inch class (49.9” measured diagonally) screen sizes. The TC-P42G25 will have an MSRP3 of $1699.95 and the TC-P50GT25 will have an MSRP of $2099.95. Both models will be available in late August 2010. Active Shutter 3D Eyewear required for viewing 3D content is sold separately. Complete technical specifications for the GT25 Series are now available at www.panasonic.com.

The VIERA GT25 series augments Panasonic’s VT25 series (named Best in Show at the 2010 International Consumer Electronics Show) of Full HD 3D Plasma TVs providing consumers with a broader product line which now ranges from 42-inch class through 65-inch class screen sizes. Panasonic also markets 85-inch class, 103-inch class and 152-inch class professional Full HD 3D Plasma models.

“From the beginning, Panasonic has led the charge into the immersive world of 3D home entertainment by offering end-to-end 3D home entertainment solutions including Full HD 3D VIERA Plasma TVs, 3D Blu-ray Disc Players, professional and consumer 3D camcorders, the nation’s first suite of 3D TV channels with partner DIRECTV, and the authoring of 3D Blu-ray movies in cooperation with the Hollywood studios,” said Henry Hauser, Panasonic Vice President, Merchandising, Display Group. “The debut of our VIERA GT25 Series of Full HD 3D TVs further expands our portfolio of 3D offerings and makes it even easier for consumers to join the immersive world of Full HD 3D for the home.”

While the VIERA® GT25 Series represents a new price point, the models include many of the same innovative features found on the critically-acclaimed VIERA VT25 models including Panasonic’s proprietary IPTV functionality, VIERA CAST™ which features USB connectivity, allowing for the addition of a wireless LAN adaptor, keyboard and USB memory. VIERA CAST now includes such favorite entertainment sites as Amazon Video-on-Demand™, Netflix™, Google’s YouTube™, Picasa™ Web Album, Bloomberg, Pandora, Twitter and a weather service, as well as Skype4™ on Your VIERA TV. With ease of use as a major focus, VIERA CAST’s interface implements quick keyword input (like a cell phone) to help retrieve favorite content faster and easier.

Another prominent feature of the GT25 series that is also found in the VT25 series is VIERA Link™, which allows Panasonic owners to control their VIERA Link compatible audio and video products with just one remote. This feature also affords the consumer the opportunity to add a network camera to the mix. And THX® Certified Display certification insures that every Panasonic Full HD 3D TV displays motion pictures and television content with the quality and color palette that the director intended.

Like its VT25 counterpart, the GT25 series also features 600Hz Sub-field Drive; 1080p Full HD resolution; 1080 lines of moving picture resolution; VIERA Image Viewer (for viewing of digital still images), 24p Cinematic Playback and new fast switching phosphors.

The GT25 Series also includes 2D to 3D conversion which can convert a 2D image or video to 3D.

Panasonic’s range of Full HD 3D VIERA Plasma HDTVs, when coupled with Panasonic’s 3D Blu-ray Disc players (DMP-BDT100, DMP- BDT300, DMP-BDT350) bring a new era of immersive visual entertainment into consumers’ homes, by creating a 3D experience that easily rivals the best that can be seen in cinemas. In addition, Panasonic and DIRECTV recently ushered in a new age in the rapid growth of 3D entertainment for the home with the launch of n3DTM powered by Panasonic – a DIRECTV channel dedicated exclusively to 3D programming. n3D powered by Panasonic is now available at no additional cost to millions of DIRECTV HD customers and features a range of sports and entertainment programming exclusively in 3D. Panasonic is the exclusive presenting sponsor of DIRECTV’s n3D channel, one of three 3D TV channels from DIRECTV that deliver movies, sports and entertainment content from some of the world’s most renowned 3D producers.

All Panasonic VIERA® Full HD 3D TV models are also Full HD TVs that display pristine 1080p content in two dimensions (2D) for conventional HD viewing.

For more information on Panasonic’s Full HD 3D technology, visit www.panasonic.com/3D.

About Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company:
Based in Secaucus, N.J., Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company (PCEC), a market and technology leader in High Definition television, is a Division of Panasonic Corporation of North America, the principal North American subsidiary of Panasonic Corporation (NYSE: PC) and the hub of Panasonic’s U.S. marketing, sales, service and R&D operations. Panasonic is pledged to practice prudent, sustainable use of the earth’s natural resources and protect our environment through the company’s Eco Ideas programs. Information about Panasonic products is available at www.panasonic.com. Additional company information for journalists is available at www.panasonic.com/pressroom.

# # #

Notes:

1 Panasonic “Full HD 3D” is defined as follows:
compatible with 1080p 3D signal
panel has native resolution of 1920x1080p display
depending upon the model, different 3D signal processing is used

2Current 3D content will be limited and may include certain Blu-ray Disc titles and satellite programming. Additional equipment and/or subscription fees may apply. 3D Blu-ray Disc player (sold separately) is required to view 3D Blu-ray Disc content and Active Shutter 3D Eyewear (sold separately) is required to view all 3D content.

3 Suggested retail price – all prices are in US dollars.

4 Access to a broadband Internet connection is required. Panasonic’s Communication Camera (TY-CC10W) is required for Skype video functionality and is sold separately. Skype is not a replacement for traditional telephone service and cannot be used for emergency calling.

That’s of course assuming you’re content signing up to a two-year agreement, with the usual data package and voice plan.  Alternatively, Amazon are selling the Torch contract-free, though you’ll need to find $599.99 if that’s your preferred option; we’re guessing it’s still SIM-locked to AT&T, too, though that’s not clear from the retailer’s listing.

The Torch has a 3.2-inch touchscreen, slide-out QWERTY keyboard and WiFi b/g/n, along with triband UMTS/HSPA and Bluetooth.  It runs the latest version of RIM’s OS, BlackBerry 6, which you can see demonstrated in the video below.

[Thanks Toby!]

This isn’t the first time we’ve looked at one of HP’s Data Vaults; back in November 2009 we reviewed the X510, a business-centric version of the MediaSmart EX487. The biggest changes are inside, with the StorageWorks X300 throwing out the Celeron and Pentium processors of its siblings and replacing it with a frugal dual-core Intel Atom CPU running at 1.6GHz. That’s paired with 2GB of RAM and four 3.5-inch SATA drive bays, all in a short tower case. Along the bottom front edge are the clear status lights, showing drive health for each HDD, power and network status, and overall Home Server health.

OS is Microsoft’s Windows Home Server, a straightforward system for sharing files, managing various user accounts – with differing degrees of access – and handling media streaming for iTunes libraries and via Windows Media Connector. The 1TB version of the StorageWorks X300, the X310 (using a single 1TB hard-drive) has a street price of $349.99, around $240 less than their X510. Connectivity includes four USB 2.0 ports and a single eSATA port, all of which can be used to attach external drives; altogether, a single X300/X310 system can offer 17TB.

That’s plenty, considering you can have up to ten PC users (and unlimited Mac clients); after all, those with more ambitious demands are expected to look to the more expensive units. HP’s focus is data protection and disaster recovery (with the X300 paired with their KeepVault online backup service); they provide their own HP Control Center app which, when installed onto each client machine, can be used to perform automated backups, folder duplications and online synchronisation. The X300 will also work with Apple’s Time Machine backup system.

Also bundled is a year’s subscription to an online file access system, which offers a custom domain for logging in and checking your files wherever there’s an internet connection and browser. Unlike a regular RAID array, Windows Home Server uses Microsoft’s own “Drive Extender” technology: that’s not standardized, but it it does allow for non-identical HDDs to be used, plus external drives being included in the overall array. Setup is straightforward, with WHS automatically establishing the data pool, and you can selectively pick which files or folders are duplicated across multiple HDDs or designate an entire drive as an automatic backup mirror.

Unlike some servers, the X300 only has a single gigabit ethernet port for network connectivity; still, with normal backup use and media streaming we found other network bottlenecks were generally more of an impediment to speed than the StorageWorks’ one port. We were able to quickly set up user accounts with varying degrees of access privileges: anything from full read/write through read-only to no-access, individually selectable to different folders if necessary.

As with previous HP WHS products we’ve tested, there’s a reasonable range of online and local media sharing options, including the ability to automatically publish photos to an online gallery, and serve up images, video and music to consoles like the Xbox 360 or PS3. However, the automatic media collector and video convertor we used on the X510 has been removed, as has the Twonky DLNA Media Server functionality, and it’s now no longer possible to easily stream content to web or iPhone clients. That’s part of HP’s focus on backup, it seems, though you can add in third-party plugins to introduce alternative functionality.

In practice, the StorageWorks X300 kept up with the several simultaneous backup jobs we asked of it, shuffling across files from a number of PCs and Macs at the same time. However Windows Media Connector is only really of use if you have a PC, and we missed broader DLNA support for streaming content simply to our Mac. At HP’s $520 MRSP we perhaps wouldn’t be convinced, but with the street price being $170 less than that it pushes the StorageWorks X300 into regular NAS territory. In that sort of arena, Windows Home Server holds its own as a capable piece of software, and with some careful add-in planning it’s possible to easily tailor the X300 into an affordable and flexible backup and media server system.

Some commentators are predicting a negative impact on Sprint’s ability to pull in high-end users, suggesting that Packingham was primarily responsible for pushing the carrier toward flagship high-speed devices.  The EVO 4G has been a surprising success, difficult to find in stock (though the supply limitations have been compounded by shortages of components at a manufacturing level).  For its part, Sprint says it sees no real problem with Packingham’s departure.

[via Electronista]

Your money nets you a 1GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon processor, WVGA display, 3G/UMTS, WiFi, Bluetooth and a 5-megapixel camera; there’s also a front-facing webcam and GPS.  Unfortunately the Streak launches with Android 1.6 (complete with some Dell customizations); Android 2.x won’t be available until later in the year.  It’s also worth noting that the Streak comes carrier-locked to AT&T, even if you pay for the SIM-free version.

If you’re still undecided about the Streak, check out our review of the European version and columnist Michael Gartenberg’s piece on the challenges small Android tablets face.  If you pick up a Streak yourself, don’t forget to leave your thoughts over at our Roots page for the MID!

Andrej can’t say much about the Samsung handset, bar the fact that it’s a prototype from the company and that it’s “larger than your ordinary phone“.  Aesthetically it doesn’t particularly stand out either, being a basic large-screen candybar with the regular Windows Phone 7 UI.

Now, this could be just another device Samsung are using to test Windows Phone 7 development, or it could be an early version of one they intend to launch later in the year.  Microsoft has confirmed that Samsung plans to be among the first out of the gate with a WP7 handset, with the new OS expected to launch in October in Europe and the following month in North America.

[via CoolSmartPhone]

OS is Windows 7, just like ASUS’ Eee Pad EP121, but unlike the ASUS there won’t be a clever QWERTY keyboard dock to turn the WindPad into a notebook replacement.  Instead, MSI has prepared a more straightforward docking station, complete with two USB 2.0 ports, audio in/out, ethernet, VGA and HDMI connections.

They mirror the reduced set of ports on the WindPad 100 itself, which has HDMI, USB and a headphones socket (together with some other connections seemingly hidden under a panel on the left-hand side).  Interestingly there’s no sign of MSI’s custom skin, as shown in the previous set of promo images, with this latest batch showing the basic Windows 7 desktop.  Still no official launch date, but MSI previously suggested a $499 tag for the U100.

[via NetbookNews]

The PRS-350 won’t have any wireless options, but may get the expanded storage.  It will, however, share an updated homescreen UI and note-taking software with its bigger sibling, have USB 2.0 connectivity and support ebooks in Adobe PDF, Microsoft Word, BBeB Book, ePub/ACS4 and Adobe Digital Edition formats.

Battery life is expected to be over two weeks – with any wireless options switched off, presumably – and the Readers are tipped to be “much more compact and lighter” than predecessors, perhaps even just 10mm thick.  Pricing is unknown but said to be competitive, and the launch is apparently imminent.

Both handsets have a 5-megapixel autofocus camera, but the Lexikon has a faster 800MHz Qualcomm processor while the Bee gets a slower 528MHz chip like the original Hero.  Each handset will run HTC Sense.

[via Android Community]

That’s significantly higher than the iPad, but ASUS’s machine will offer full PC functionality since it’s based on an Intel Core 2 Duo ULV processor running Windows 7 Home Premium.  It also comes with a keyboard docking station for speedier text-entry, and has a 12-inch display.

Interestingly, while the EP101TC ditched Windows 7 Embedded Compact in favor of Android 3.0, according to Shen there will be a third model in January 2011 which will in fact use the Microsoft OS.  That will have a 10-inch touchscreen, ARM processors and a price tag between $399 and $499, but lack the EP121′s docking station.

Finally, the ASUS Eee Tablet – a monochrome LCD slate intended for reading and annotating documents – will drop globally in October priced at around $300, considerably cheaper than the $500 tipped recently.  It will run a homegrown Linux OS rather than Android, have WiFi, 2 -megapixel camera, touchscreen and audio recording, together with a browser, microSD card (augmenting the 2GB of onboard storage) and a battery good for 10hrs runtime.  ASUS are considering renaming it to the Eee Note, so as to avoid direct tablet comparisons.

[via Engadget]

That could be simple confusion over the names, or it could suggest different internal hardware, most likely alternative radios for different carriers.  HTC are believed to be preparing several WP7 devices for launch day, and Xmoo has confirmed that the Mozart is a GSM device intended for the European market.

Other details are unknown, but the smartphone doesn’t have any HTC apps preloaded and the microUSB port is on the right side of the handset.  Xmoo also tips the HTC Spark as being basically the same device but with a smaller screen.

HP’s board has said that Hurd’s departure from the company was not primarily down to the harassment suit – which was investigated and found to be groundless – but a loss of confidence in the CEO after he reportedly falsified expenses to cover up details of an extramarital affair.  It’s unclear whether McIlvaine has been seen to be involved in that process; Fortune’s attempts to reach her for comment were unsuccessful.

“We are excited about the potential of Kinect and its potential to impact gaming and entertainment. Microsoft files lots of patent applications to protect our intellectual property, not all of which are brought to market right away. Kinect that is shipping this holiday will not support sign language.” Microsoft statement

While Kinect will ship with webcams capable of 320 x 240, Microsoft apparently planned the cameras to support over twice that resolution.  That would have allowed the system to recognize not just limbs but individual fingers, hence the ASL support.

Unfortunately, in trying to cut costs, hit a $150 street price and still maintain a decent profit margin, Microsoft supposedly opted to use cheaper, less capable cameras, which can only recognize limbs.  They also offloaded some of Kinect’s processing from the camera-bar itself to the Xbox 360 console itself.  Microsoft hasn’t confirmed this is all true, but if so it suggests the first-gen hardware will never be able to support ASL.

Meanwhile the car dock holds the Galaxy S in either portrait or landscape orientation and has a microUSB input for charging the smartphone.  It’s intended to be used with the Android in-car UI, together with voice search.

Interestingly, the press release also mentions the “Samsung WMG160 Wi-Fi HD streaming device”, seemingly a DLNA-compliant TV adapter.  That would presumably allow for direct streaming from the Galaxy S’ “AllShare” app to your HDTV; however we can find no mention of the adapter on Samsung’s site.  We’re waiting on official pricing details from Samsung themselves.

Update: The desk cradle is $39.99 while the Battery Charger is $49.99.  As for the WMG160, that’s yet to be added to Samsung’s site but they’ve sent us product details which you can see in the gallery below.

Press Release:

SAMSUNG MOBILE UNVEILS PREMIUM GALAXY S SMART PHONE ACCESSORIES

New class of smart phone accessories feature compact desktop dock, convenient portable vehicle dock, and affordable spare battery charging solution to help make the Galaxy S smart phone experience brilliant

DALLAS, August 11, 2010 — Samsung Telecommunications America (Samsung Mobile)1, the No. 1 mobile phone provider in the U.S., today announced a line of premium accessories for the Android™-powered Galaxy S smart phone portfolio. The lineup of premium Galaxy S accessories, including a convenient desktop dock, vehicle dock and backup battery charging system, will provide users with an enhanced mobile experience for each of the Galaxy S smart phones.

The Samsung Galaxy S accessory lineup includes a small, compact desktop dock providing consumers an easy-to-use option to view their favorite movies, listen to music, display as a digital picture frame and use the desktop speakerphone when making hands-free calls while at a desk or in a home office. The Galaxy S desktop dock, which also doubles as a charger, allows for useful application downloads and internet browsing features such as Google Search™ by Voice, which allows users to speak their search query. Users can download the Desk Home application from the Android marketplace by searching for “desk home Samsung”. The Desk Home application can switch brightness levels from day to night and provides one-touch access to the Daily Briefing, alarm clock, music, pictures, movie gallery and local weather so that you can always stay up-to-date with daily activities.

The Galaxy S portable vehicle dock allows users to mount their device to a car windshield or dashboard and display turn-by-turn instructions for a safe, hands-free GPS navigation experience. Users can receive and display the latest traffic alerts, location-based information and activate the Google Search™ by Voice features when the Galaxy S smart phone is in the vehicle dock. The lightweight vehicle dock rotates freely between landscape and portrait modes and is attachable to either the windshield or car dashboard. The vehicle dock also contains a micro USB connection to conveniently charge a phone while in-use.

The Samsung Galaxy S accessories lineup offers an affordable charging solution that includes three components such as an extra 1500 mAh battery, a spare battery charger with phone stand and a wall charger for charging your phone and spare battery separately. The backup charger is small enough to fit in a pocket, purse or briefcase to transport and protect a charged backup battery allowing users smart phones to always stay powered-up while on-the-go.

Customers can also personalize Galaxy S smart phones with multiple protective case options, available in a variety of colors, patterns and fabrics to fit the needs of each consumer’s personal style. Additional Galaxy S accessories include a three-pack screen protector set with anti-scratch, mirror, and privacy screens as well as the Samsung WMG1602 Wi-Fi HD streaming device. The Samsung WMG160 allows users to stream movies, music, and photos directly from a Galaxy S smart phone to an HDTV.

For more information on retail availability and a complete list of Galaxy S accessories, visit www.samsung.com.

1 Number one mobile phone provider in the U.S claim for Samsung Mobile based upon reported shipment data, according to Strategy Analytics, Q1 2010 U.S. Market Share Handset Shipments Reports.
2 Also compatible with other DLNA compliant devices such as laptops or cameras. Check device compatibility at www.dlna.org/products.

Roam outside the 48 areas Sprint currently cover with their 4G network and you’ll have no data access whatsoever.  Sprint offer a USB docking cradle with a pair of external antenna ports, so you can hook the U1901 up to a bigger antenna to pull in the best signal possible, but that won’t help if the WiMAX roll-out hasn’t reached your city yet.

Sprint are yet to confirm pricing for the U1901, but with the 250U currently free with a new, two-year data package agreement we can’t see why you’d opt for the 4G-only device.

Press Release:

Sprint 4G USB Device U1901
High-speed Internet access on the go

Built to work specifically with the Sprint 4G Network, Sprint 4G USB Device U1901 is a small, easy-to-use modem compatible with both PC and Mac computers, connecting laptops or netbooks to blazing-fast 4G speeds. It is compatible with Windows® Vista, Windows® XP, Windows® 7, MAC OS® 10.5 and 10.6. U1901 provides access to Sprint 4G wireless speeds up to 10 times faster than 3G1 in those metropolitan areas across the country enabled with the new 4G mobile broadband service. Visit www.sprint.com/4G for a list of Sprint 4G cities launched to date. U1901 is ideally suited for companies wanting to deliver high-bandwidth solutions to workers on-the-go or for remote offices looking to provide basic DSL-like speeds2 to workers in the metro area. U1901 is also an affordable option for value-conscious, highly-mobile Internet users, such as high school and college students who want to browse the Web, send and receive e-mail, access information, and explore social networking and multimedia entertainment.

ADVANCED FEATURES:
Sprint SmartViewSM software installation via CD
Equipped with two external antenna ports for improved performance
when plugged into the separately sold docking cradle
(visit sprint.com/accessories and select U1901)
Flip-up USB connector
Easy hands-free activation
Sprint 4G provides peak download speeds over 10 Mbps (average download
speeds of 3-6 Mbps)

SPECIFICATIONS:
Dimensions: 3.15 inches (h) x 1.2 inches (w) x 0.59 inches (d)
Weight: 0.9 ounces
Chipset: Beceem BCSM250
Compatibility: Windows® Vista, Windows® XP, Windows® 7,
MAC OS® 10.5 and 10.6 with Intel platform.

That seems to imply not only software for dedicated ereader devices, such as future iterations of Sony’s Reader line, but potentially compatible Reader apps for the company’s other hardware.  That would most likely include the Sony Ericsson line of XPERIA Android smartphones.

The listing also calls for familiarity with “Google Android SDK, Microsoft Windows, and/or Apple Mac OS X” which could imply desktop versions of the Reader app are on the way too.  Sony has seen its market share gnawed into by Amazon’s Kindle and the (Android-based) Barnes & Noble nook.

Job Listing:

Senior Staff Software Engineer (Android) – Digital Reader Business Division at Sony Electronics

Location: San Jose, US-CA (San Francisco Bay Area)
Type: Full-time
Experience: Mid-Senior level
Functions: Engineering
Industries: Consumer Goods
Posted: July 15, 2010
Employer Job ID: 21445

Job Description

As a part of Sony Electronics’ engineering team you can ensure that what we produce is just as extraordinary as the ideas that inspire us. While we run on fearless creativity and innovation, our engineers make certain that everything we do is of the highest quality. Every day, they work with advanced technologies, including some that most people never even thought possible. Some may call it magic; we call it a commitment to innovation, quality, and style and design.

Sony’s Digital Reading Business Division (DRBD) currently has an opening for a Senior Staff Software Engineer in our San Jose, CA office. As a Sr Staff level Software Engineer, you work with Sony’s highly talented application software engineering team developing application software for digital reading devices and other consumer electronic devices. Responsibilities include developing application software for digital reading and other consumer electronic devices; working closely with Product Planners to understand the feature requirements; implementing features according to the product requirement documents; designing product architecture; working with test engineers on bug fixes and resolving issues; writing unit test codes, instrument your code for measurements, actively participating in code review, and performing “pre-flight” testing. Additional duties assigned as necessary.

* Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science or related field; or 10 years related experience required
* Programming experience with Google Android SDK, Microsoft Windows, and/or Apple Mac OS X
* Programming experience with C/C++/C#/Objective-C and/or Java
* Familiarity with standard software development tools including: Eclipse, Apple Xcode, Microsoft Visual Studio, and others
* Superb communication skills (both written and verbal)
* Experience working within software development lifecycle
* Love of solving challenging problems
* Product sensibilities – enthusiast with regard to digital media, devices, and related products
* Experience with packaged application software product

Experience with cross-compilation environments like Qt
Experience supporting a consumer electronics device platform
Linguistic skill in Japanese is a definite plus

[via The Digital Reader]

Curiously, there’s no mention of what looks to be a camera lens on the back of the unit in the user manual itself, though given that manual also shows images of a different Archos PMP it’s possible the company are still yet to finalize its content.  The teardown photos from the FCC look to show a camera unit on the ‘board inside, certainly.

According to last week’s leak, the Archos 32 will be priced at around $150 and support MPEG-4 HD, H.264 and WMV (among others) at up to 720p HD resolution.  The manual also tips a number of docks and car-mounts.

[via Engadget]

The idea is that, when you have footage you want to show to more people than would be comfortable clustering around the Ordro’s 3-inch touchscreen LCD, you can snap on the projector and aim it at the nearest wall.  At 15 lumens it’s not going to rival your nearest cinema, but it’s certainly easier than toting a bag full of cables to hook up to an HDTV.

Meanwhile the rest of the camcorder is pretty standard, with a 10x optical zoom, SD/SDHC card slot for storage, various connectivity options (including USB and HDMI) and footage recorded in H.264.  On sale now direct from Ordro at $549.95.

[via PicoProjector-Info]

That assumes you’re willing to sign up to a two-year agreement, but at least you’ll get the $100 discount online rather than having to send off a mail-in rebate form if you pick up a DROID 2 in-store tomorrow.  Happily Verizon has left the 3G mobile hotspot functionality of Android 2.2 in place, meaning you can share the smartphone’s EVDO Rev.A connection with up to five WiFi-tethered clients.

In the box there’s an 8GB microSD card, which augments the DROID 2′s existing 8GB of internal storage, and Verizon will be offering car and desk docks just as with the original DROID.

[via Android Community]

To update, either wait for the OTA firmware to be offered automatically, or trigger it manually by going to the Updates section of the Settings menu and choosing “HTC software update”.  We’re hearing mixed reports from the new software, with some saying the battery issues and Flash 10.1 support are still patchy at best; let us know how you get on in the comments.

[via Android Community]

We’ll be watching the feedback closely to see whether the battery and other issues affecting some devices updated to Android 2.2 reoccur with the DROID; it seems that, no matter how “finished” the upgrade package, some people are inevitably going to have problems.  Let us know how you get on in the comments!

[via Android Community]