There’s also a behind-the-scenes clip showing how the D800 showcase was put together. It’s an altogether impressive piece of work, with the DSLR showing its strengths not only in capturing smooth high-speed footage but also in low-light situations and under harsh indoor lighting which can often spell death for flesh-tones.

Nikon is positioning the D800/D800E as ideal for portrait and landscape photographers, as well as those who do plenty of studio work, though the camera is slightly lighter (albeit a little bulkier) than the D700 and so might make for a solid mobile setup. You’ll need reasonably deep pockets, though: the D800 will be $3k when it drops late next month, while the D800E – which gains more detail at the increased risk of moire – will be $300 more.

Note: the sample video is somewhat graphic, showing scenes of childbirth (think a little blood rather than anything too gruesome or NSFW).

Successor to the much-loved Eee Pad Transformer, the 10.1-inch tablet also has WiFi b/g/n, Bluetooth, GPS and twin cameras. ASUS says it delayed the UK launch so as to give retailers enough stock to clear their pre-orders, but that more units are expected “over the coming weeks.”

In the meantime, of course, ASUS has revealed the Transformer Prime 700 series, a variant on the original Prime but using a 1080p-capable 1920 x 1200 display and sporting a redesigned rear panel to boost wireless and GPS performance. The surprise reveal at CES this week has left some Prime early-adopters fuming, though ASUS doesn’t expect to have the Full HD version on the market for a few months yet.

So, grab a Transformer Prime now – complete with the Ice Cream Sandwich update – or hold off and pick up the 700 series version later in the year? Let us know what you plan to do in the comments.

The come equipped with 1200mAh Li-ion batteries, so don’t forget to charge up before you hit the slopes. The APEX masks also have the ability to home in on your location via GPS, so you (and whoever is watching your stream) will be able to log your exact location through the entire run. Next up is the EGO HD – a camera that can clip onto your bike, surfboard, kayak or that one time you decide to go skydiving.

The EGO HD is equipped with a water proof housing and also has the ability to stream live video over WiFi. Those of you wondering how to consistently keep up a WiFi connection while out and about could always carry your hotspot with you. This way nothing slows you down, and it would be possible to travel longer distances keeping up a live stream.

[videos processing]

The front-facing camera now runs at 2-megapixels, instead of 1.3, and the rear panel has been redesigned to enhance WiFi, Bluetooth and GPS performance. Still, the TF700T should fit into the same keyboard/battery dock as the existing Transformer Prime. Otherwise it’s the same Tegra 3 1.3GHz quadcore, with WiFi b/g/n, Bluetooth 2.1 and microHDMI connectivity along with a microSD card reader.

The ASUS Eee Pad Transformer Prime TF700T will go on sale in North America in Q2, priced at $599 for the 32GB model and $699 for the 64GB model. We can’t imagine early-adopters of the existing Prime are going to be too happy, frankly.

We’re working on getting images of the new TF700T, and will update when we have them. For more on the Transformer Prime overall, check out our full review.

The 520 HS supports ISO up to 3200 and 28mm wide-angle shots, along with 1080p Full HD video capture and 6.8fps continuous shooting. The 110 HS, meanwhile, also captures 1080p and has the 3200 ISO range, but manages 5.8fps continuous shooting. Its lens is even wider, 24mm, for fitting more into any one shot.

Each camera has an “Advanced Smart AUTO” mode that picks from 58 different scene presets – including people, landscapes, pets and vehicles – using Face ID to track people in each frame. Interestingly, users can input an age range for up to 12 different people, stored in the camera, and the ELPH duo uses that range to prioritize focus to the youngest person. It’s also possible to search through saved shots of one of those people.

The Canon PowerShot ELPH 520 HS will arrive in March, in black, silver, red and blue, priced at $299.99. As for the Canon PowerShot ELPH 110 HS, that will drop in February, in black, silver, red, blue, green and pink, priced at $249.99.

Other than that, specifications are a mystery. From the low-res picture we can make out what looks to be a camera on the back, and we’re guessing it’ll be joined with a front-facing webcam for video calls too. OS is obviously Android, as per Acer’s more notable Iconia Tabs of the past.

Exactly when we can expect this new model to reach shelves – or even to be shown for more than a couple of seconds – is yet to be announced. So far Acer has satisfied itself with rather more mundane options, including the budget-friendly A200, but the talk of an A700 with a 1920 x 1200 display and Tegra 3 chipset, 5-megapixel rear camera and all three of 3G, WiFi and Bluetooth certainly has us interested.

More on the rumored Iconia Tab A700 here.

If you’re using Windows Live Messenger you only get 720p video support, though standalone 1080p video clips and interpolated 15-megapixel stills are possible. Logitech’s accompanying software suite supports H.264 video compression and one-click YouTube and Facebook upload, for sharing so straightforward you can have clips online before your hangover has even lifted.

A particularly flexible mounting clip supports tripod screws, or mounts on top of laptop screens, low-profile desk monitors or traditional CRTs, if you’re rocking that old-school setup still. Hook-up is via USB 2.0.

The Logitech HD Pro Webcam C920 is up for pre-order now, priced at $99.99. It’s at times like these you can see why Cisco’s Umi really didn’t stand a chance.

The camera company is particularly proud of its zoom, a Leica DC Vario-Elmarit 1:2.8-5.2/4.5-108 mm ASPH. lens. Capable of going from a 25 mm wide angle to a 600 mm super-telephoto, it still manages to fit into a 124 x 80 x 95 mm, 540g form-factor.

On the back is an adjustable 3-inch 461,000 pixel LCD display with approximately 100-percent field of view, and there’s a stereo microphone and 70MB of internal memory, augmented by an SD/SDHC/SDXC card. Connectivity including USB 2.0, mini HDMI, analog A/V output and a microphone/remote jack.

Pricing on the new camera is yet to be confirmed, but it will go on sale in January 2012.

The actual size of the A700/A701 is unspecified, though we’re assuming it would come in at around the 10-inch mark otherwise the resolution might end up counter-productive. The A700 is listed as being WiFi-only, while the A701 has a 3G radio integrated, as is Acer’s usual pattern for its tablet line-up.

OS could be Android Honeycomb, going by the browser user agent, rather than Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich; still, Acer has promised ICS upgrades early in the new year. Other hardware isn’t detailed, though dual cameras are likely, along with HDMI connectivity and the usual array of Bluetooth and GPS.

No word on when Acer might make the Iconia Tab A700/A701 official.

[via Notebook Italia]

We’ve seen wireless TV transmitters before, of course, but high-resolution and zero wires generally don’t play nicely. HP reckons its system is good enough to handle smooth Full HD, however, and supports not only video content but application mirroring, so that you can squirt your browser over to your TV and surf more comfortably from the couch.

Unfortunately that cord-cutting doesn’t come cheap. The HP Wireless TV Connect will go on sale in mid-December, priced at $179.99.

Other ports include stereo audio output, an S/PDIF digital optical audio output and a USB 2.0 connection which allows you to treat the GoFlex Cinema as an external drive and dump media straight onto it. Meanwhile the drive can also be used standalone with digital cameras and camcorders, pulling your content straight across ready for playback.

Format support includes Xvid HD; AVI; MPEG-2 (VOB/ISO); MPEG-1; MPEG-4 (Xvid); AVC HD; H.264; TS/TP/M2T; MOV; M2TS; MKV; FLV; VC-1; and WMV9 video, along with ASF; MP3; WAV; AAC; FLAC; WMA; LPCM; WMA Pro; Dolby® Digital; and DTS audio. There’s also support for up to 20-megapixel images and subtitles.

The Seagate GoFlex Cinema is available now in Europe, priced at €99 ($136) for the 1TB model, €129 ($177) for the 2TB model, and €179 ($246) for the 3TB model. No word on North American pricing or availability at this stage.

There’s also a microphone input, HDMI output and a remote control. Both the X400 and X416 also get a “Pause” video recording function which allows users to temporarily cease filming and then resume later on, saving footage the same file rather than starting a new clip.

As for the Toshiba Camileo X200, that has a 12x optical zoom and also gets an HDMI port and remote control. The Camileo X400 is available now, priced at $249.99, while the Camileo X200 is also on sale now, priced at $199.99. The X416 will arrive later this month, for $319.99 (though that’s likely to come down with an instant rebate).

The Burton edition of the camera will have all the award-winning features of the original PLAYSPORT. It’s waterproof and shockproof making it perfect for extreme conditions in the snow. The interface is easy to read and the buttons are large enough to operate with gloves on. The camera is capable of full 1080p HD video capture as well as 5-megapixel stills for 16:9 widescreen HD images.

Videos can even be captured at 60fps for fast action that’s also perfect for slow motion playback. The Burton edition bundle comes with an HDMI cable, remote control, 4GB SDHC memory card, a tripod and carrying case. Priced at $199.95, the camera will be available this fall on Kodak.com and all major retailers.

AppleInsider has been told by sources familiar with the situation that Apple may offer a new HD+ format. A small number of films have been submitted to the iTunes store for release in the September and October timeframe that sport an optional 1920 x 1080 resolution. One of the films from 20th Century Fox is said to be encoded for 480p SD, 720p HD, and a new 1080p HD+ format.

The sources also suggest that a new Apple TV with an A5 chip may be in the works that will support 1080p streams. There was also evidence found in the iOS 5 code to suggest that 1080p would be supported in the new update. Add to that speculation of an iPad HD for September, and it looks like Apple users will finally be able to enjoy 1080p like everyone else, although no news about Blu-Ray for Macs yet.

[via AppleInsider]

There’s also on-demand media streaming support, including Netflix, Blockbuster, VUDU and Film Fresh, in up to HD quality, and Onkyo has used Marvell’s Qdeo processor for 1080p upscaling, deinterlacing and noise reduction. Ports include two HDMI outputs, so as to make hooking up – and flicking between – an HDTV and a projector more straightforward.

DTS-HD Master Audio and Dolby TrueHD, along with THX certification, round out the key specs, though as you’d probably imagine there are plenty of other ports on the back including digital and analog audio outputs.

And what would you pay for this rich, creamy, uncommonly good Blu-ray player (disclaimer: we haven’t actually tried it; it could be rubbish)? Onkyo will be asking $599 when the BD-SP809 lands in August.

Netflix already offers an Android app, but it’s only officially available for a select number of devices. The streaming media company has previously said that it’s an issue of security, with Android lacking a generic content protection system that will salve the concerns of license holders:

“The hurdle has been the lack of a generic and complete platform security and content protection mechanism available for Android. The same security issues that have led to piracy concerns on the Android platform have made it difficult for us to secure a common Digital Rights Management (DRM) system on these devices. Setting aside the debate around the value of content protection and DRM, they are requirements we must fulfill in order to obtain content from major studios for our subscribers to enjoy” Netflix, Nov 2010

More recently, Netflix has been working to individually certify devices, but it’s a time-consuming process. That frustration has led to users exploring unofficial methods to get the app onto their handset.

With this blanket certification for TI’s OMAP4, however, there’s the prospect of more speedy approval for new devices. Motorola already uses TI chips, and the upcoming DROID 3 is expected to sport the OMAP4430. For the moment, though, TI isn’t saying which devices will come preloaded with the Netflix app, but only that the first examples will land “in the near future.”

[via Android Community]

The new locations to be added to the 4G LTE coverage map will include Springfield, Massachusetts; Huntsville, Alabama; Augusta, Georgia; Charleston, West Virginia; Louisville, Kentucky; Wichita, Kansas; Toledo, Ohio; Carbondale and Marion, Illinois; Chattanooga, Tennessee; Charleston, South Carolina; Knoxville, Tennessee; Greensboro-Winston Salem-High Point, North Carolina; Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina; Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania; and Los Angeles and San Diego, California.

This new expansion covers a lot of the mid-west and southern regions and should up Verizon’s 4G LTE coverage to about 87 markets. Well, we’ve sort of lost count by now. Whatever the number, Verizon is certainly delivering on its promise. More and more folks across the country will soon be able to enjoy the 12Mbps of real-world downlink speeds and the 5Mbps of uplink speeds. That is, if you’ve got deep pockets, as Verizon’s new tiered data plan will replace its unlimited data plan starting July 7.

[via Verizon]

In fact, the camera can rotate 360-degrees, and Logitech supplies a three foot USB extension cable (along with the three foot fixed cable on the webcam itself) so if you can’t find a good angle then you probably need to go to a yoga class. Both PC and Mac are supported, there’s integrated autofocus that’s good for objects up to 10cm from the lens, and up to 8-megapixel interpolated stills.

Various apps are bundled, including face-recognition login, video editing software, video effects and Logitech’s own Vid HD conferencing app. The Logitech HD Webcam C615 is on sale in the US now, priced at $79.99, and will drop in Europe and Asia come September 2011.

In a file called AVAssetExportPresetNames.strings, there are multiple lines that show a 1920×1080 movie preset. This means that devices such as the iPhone 4, iPad 1 and 2, and fourth-gen iPod touch will soon be able to decode and encode 1080p content. Apps like YouTube and iMovie will also be able to export full HD 1080p videos.

Currently, with iOS 4, devices can only record, playback, and export content up to 720p. This boost in image quality also further supports rumors that the next iPhone 5 will feature an 8-megapixel camera capable of capturing full HD video.

[via 9to5 Mac]

Other options include a 17Mbit “normal” 1080p mode and a 24Mbit “fine” 1080p mode, while 720p can be shot in 9Mbit “normal”, 13Mbit “fine” or 17Mbit “super fine” modes. All have the same high-quality audio, though there’s a second version which removes the sound effects in the app too.

Opinions differ as to whether anything over 17Mbps produces a noticeable difference in final video quality, but at least now you can judge that for yourself. Potatoman and hyperX say they’ll be working together on other GSII mods in future, and we’re excited to see what the pair come up with.

We weren’t exactly underwhelmed when we saw the 1080p HD video the Galaxy S II is capable of, so this improvement in quality is even more welcome. Natively the Samsung records roughly 16Mbit/s 1080p HD, spitting out MP4 files using the H.264 codec with AAC mono audio.

The mono limitation is still present – that’s down to the single microphone, of course, and software hacks can’t exactly grow the Galaxy S II another one of those AnonymousCoward points out that the GSII does have a second microphone, but right now it’s not being implemented - but otherwise this is the sort of hack that we expected excitable Samsung owners to come up with. Unfortunately there’s no public release of the mod, so we’ll have to wait for hyperX to polish it up before we can try it out ourselves.

Update: While we wait, xda-developers member Potatoman tells us that his GSII camera mod is already available. It doesn’t tinker with the video bitrate – Potatoman reckons he didn’t see enough quality improvement to warrant the increase in file size – but it does boost audio quality to 192kbps/44.1Khz quality from the standard 64kbps/16khz. You can download it here.

Current broadcast 3D systems basically squash the left and right eye image into a single frame, which are then expanded out and upscaled by the TV itself. That means the broadcasters can use the same HD pipes to send over 3D, but at the cost of picture quality.

The new Japanese Hybridcast system, however, uses digital broadcast paired with IPTV or internet-based video, with the Full HD picture for one eye going over the former and the Full HD picture for the other eye going over the latter. Since IPTV can lag behind broadcast TV, “time stamp signals that are embedded in airwaves for synchronizing video and called PTS also in video data to be transmitted via a communication line” are used to make sure the two feeds are matched up correctly when they reach the HDTV, the NHK Science & Technology Research Laboratories said. “And we synchronize images for the right and left eyes based on PTS on the side of TV.”

3D sync is just one of the uses envisaged for the timestamping, which the NHK team rely on for their new Hybridcast system. That promises to deliver content to tablets and other companion devices that’s linked with what’s playing on the TV at that point in time, mixing together internet- and broadcast-based content with no difference between the two visible to the end-user.

All three models feature full 1080p HD video recording and even up to 16-megapixel stills. The HX-WA10 is the one model out of the three that’s waterproof for up to 3 meters or almost 10 feet. It has a stereo mic, mini HDMI/USB/SDXC connector ports, and a 2.6-inch LCD, but almost no internal memory at only 80MB—priced at $550.

The HX-DC15 comes with a 3-inch LCD and 16GB of internal memory, but priced at $610. The entry-level model HX-DC1 has a 14-megapixel sensor and a 3-inch CD, but again with almost no internal memory at only 80MB—priced at $425. All models will be released in Japan starting on June 25th and hopefully make their way state side.

[via Engadget]

Once we’d located the source of the hole, it being a monitor-shaped hole it wasn’t difficult, we went about tracking the footsteps of the thief all the way across the earth. We went to Barcelona, Las Vegas, Orlando, lower Indonesia, Tokyo, and even aunt Mabel’s back yard where no human can escape without doing some yard work. And there it was, right there floating above us in a cloud of rapture – the monitor! We were just waking up at the time, of course, having just survived the second coming of the gods and all that, and it turns out we’d been sleeping for a few weeks instead of just 30 minutes. Imagine that!

So long story short we’ve got a winner and her name is Heather Creely. You can see her entry into this contest in the image above, and you can see the full rules for this contest right over here: Original Post. As with all of our recent contests, if Heather cannot contact us within 24 hours (we’ll give a little leeway since we’re so late announcing this one,) she’ll have to forfeit the prize and we’ll choose again!

Built-in Bluetooth also connects to your phone, so you have a viewfinder to check the angle, with an HDMI port to connect to a screen without having to pull the microSD card. It also has the first external 2.5mm microphone jack on any hands-free camera, so it will separate the audio you want from ambient noise surrounding you.

The Contour has three resolutions, four frame rates, and a five-megapixel still mode, as well as an interactive GPS receiver which tracks speed, location, and elevation at four frames per second.

And here is your obligatory PR quote, though this one is from stunt driver Greg Tracy, not a CEO, so it’s more interesting:

“When I’m shooting action, I love to put the audience in the middle of it and experience it first-hand. With the Contour+, I’ll be able to do this like never before.” said Tracy. “With its professional-grade lens, connectivity options and size, the Contour+ is the perfect tool for my demanding production work, and it won’t break the bank.”

The camera sells for $499, and we are seeing it available on Amazon, and B&H Photo, Video, and Pro Audio starting May 18. It is available for pre-order now.

Here are the specs:
· Wide angle 170 degree F2.8 lens
· Flush-front lens
· 270 degree on-axis smooth lens rotation
· Streaming of live video via HDMI port
· Configurable White Balance
· Playback of full-display HD Video through HDMI port
· Rear door pass-through for USB and HDMI ports
· 4Hz (4 times per second) performance of GPS Receiver

And also check out the video of the Contour in action here..

Press release:

TAKE STORYTELLING TO THE NEXT LEVEL WITH NEW CONTOUR+ HANDS-FREE VIDEO CAMERA – AVAILABLE TODAY

Contour’s Latest Innovation Adds Richness to Stories with Progression in Video, Location, Audio, and Streaming

SEATTLE, Wash. – May 12, 2011 – Contour, Inc. (http://www.contour.com),a market leader in hands-free video cameras, today announced Contour+, Contour’s first camera for the broadcast and pro-sumer markets. The Contour+ marks the next progression in hands-free video and represents the company’s continued focus on leading the market’s innovation. The Contour+ is now available at Contour.com and retail partners for $499.

“Nowhere on Earth is off limits to filmmakers and other visual storytellers, but there are plenty of places standard pro cameras can’t go,” said Marc Barros, Contour CEO. “Contour+ delivers high-quality video, audio, location data and streaming capabilities anywhere there’s a story to tell. Today, anyone can be a documentarian or filmmaker, and we’ve created the most affordable way to give pro-sumers, broadcast and filmmakers everything they need to tell incredibly rich stories from right within the action.”

The hands-free and wireless technology that has established Contour’s technical leadership in the market is augmented with progressions in the lens, first-ever features in the hands-free market, andmore to create a new era in the technical side of storytelling. The camera’s powerful and unique combination of technical features has piqued the interest of industry tastemakers including Film Producer and Freeride Entertainment Director, Derek Westerlund.

“Hands-free is a big revolution in the camera space, but we haven’t had anything that was progressive enough to use on professional shoots until now,” said Westerlund. “The Contour+ allows me to capture great POV shots and will help bring the movie’s story to life. The Contour+ is the new standard for next generation, high-quality, hands-free cameras.”

Greg Tracy, a renowned stunt driver and filmmaker who has worked on feature films such as “Bourne Ultimatum,” “Wanted,” and “The Town,” looks forward to using the new Contour+ on his upcoming professional shoots. “When I’m shooting action, I love to put the audience in the middle of it and experience it first-hand. With the Contour+, I’ll be able to do this like never before.” said Tracy. “With its professional-grade lens, connectivity options and size, the Contour+ is the perfect tool for my demanding production work, and it won’t break the bank.”

How Contour+ Delivers

The next progression in hands-free cameras lets explorers:

• Expand Field of Vision: A six-element glass lens delivers 1080p video quality, an adjustable white balance to dial-in details and a 170-degree field of view to clearly integrate peripherals and backdrops in each shot

• Deliver Live Action: Streaming video via HDMI and an external transmitter broadcasts the action in real-time

• Stay Connected Better than any POV Camera: Built-in Bluetooth connects to a mobile phone, creating a wireless viewfinder to check the angle; a HDMI port allows instant replay on a laptop or widescreen direct from the included microSD card

• Capture Crisp Audio: The first external 2.5mm microphone jack on any hands-free camera helps distinguish featured audio from ambient noise

• Benefit from Contour’s Signature Elements: Three resolutions, four frame rates and a five-megapixel still mode are available to customize the shot; an internal interactive GPS receiver tracks speed, location, and elevation at four frames per second

Shipping today from Contour.com, the Contour+ is also available from Amazon.com; B&H Photo, Video, and Pro-Audio; Gear Co-Op, Paragon, and Samy’s Camera.

Contour’s complete collection of high quality, easy-to-use cameras, including the ContourGPS and ContourHD, provide a variety of solutions to fit every adventurer’s need. The company helps people further share their stories with its free apps and online community.

About Contour

Contour is a market leader in the hands-free video camera category. Producing simple, thoughtfully designed and intuitive adventure storytelling tools, Contour, enables modern day explorers to use video and location-based video to relive and replay their personal tales ofaction, adventure and travel, sharing them with world at the touch of a button. For more information about Contour please visit www.contour.com.

The 3D system uses an Arisawa Xpol polarizer film that splits the picture into left and right eye images. What it does mean is that you give up some of the vertical resolution, taking the panel down to 1920 x 540, since Xpol angles every other line at each eye.

The 16.8m color display has a 160-degree viewing angle (both horizontal and vertical) and 72-percent NTSC color gamut coverage. As you can see in the DigInfo video below, Ortus envisage the screen showing up in 3D camcorders to allow real-time previews; however, we’d also be very excited to see it on a next-gen games console like Sony’s NGP

[via Electronista]

Contour has unleashed a couple hands-free cameras in the past, but today’s announcement of the Contour+ brings a slew of enhancements. The Contour+ captures 1080p HD video, has built-in GPS, and has up to a 170-degree wide-angle rotating lens that captures all the action with great quality and minimal fish-eye distortion.

Additionally, it has several new ports, including a 2.5mm mic jack for recording external sound. An added HDMI port to eliminate the hassle of removing the microSD card in order to transfer files. Video can still be streamed from the camera to your iPhone or Android phone via Bluetooth to help frame shots. For $499, you can now go wreak some havoc and capture it all in HD.

[via Engadget]

1. “like” us on Facebook: facebook.com/slashgearcom
2. Comment on the wall saying something nice about SlashGear and let us know why you think you should win. You must also include the tag #airemonitor, or your post will not be counted.

Contest begins April 27, 2PM PST, and ends May 4, 2PM PST. A winner will be announced on May 4 @ 5PM PST here in the main news feed and at our official Facebook page.

WINNERS will be given the opportunity to submit a review of their Aire monitor and have it posted on the front page of SlashGear.com!

*Reviews may be edited or modified before publication and are considered works for hire under the 1976 Copyright Act. Submissions will be ineligible for payment or remuneration.

Competition is open to residents of the US over the age of 18. One entry per contest per person. Family members of Google and SlashGear/Android Community are not permitted to enter. Competition entries are only accepted via the specified SlashGear Facebook page; entries left in the comments section of this or any other post will not be recognized. One entry per person (and yes, we check).

The winners will be announced on SlashGear and will be expected to contact SlashGear via the following email: samia@androidcommunity.com ; they will be expected to respond within 24 hours else their prize may be forfeit and another winner selected. Editors decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. Winner agrees that their name and details of their entry may be used for promotional purposes by, but not limited to, AOC and SlashGear.

Prize consists of one Aire LED Black 22″ Monitor on SlashGear. One prize per winner. There is no cash alternative or any other alternative for prize winners unless this prize should become unavailable, in which case SlashGear and AOC reserve the right to substitute another prize of equal or greater value.

Contest provided by SlashGear. Prizing provided by AOC. Any questions regarding this contest should be directed to samia@androidcommunity.com.

Screen Stream will, it’s said, take the 1080p display the new high-definition Stream is capable of, and split the four individual views of multiplayer games, squirting one to each player’s controller. The TV can then show different camera angles or even be turned off completely. There’s also the possibility of “Virtual Console Games” similar to the tiny titles playable on SEGA’s DreamCast controllers.

As for the main hardware, Nintendo is said to be using a custom triple-core processor based on IBM’s PowerPC chipset, similar to the Xbox 360, though with higher clock speeds than the Microsoft console. It will be paired with a revamped version of AMD’s R700 GPU, expected to be faster than the PS3′s NVIDIA 7800GTX-based graphics chip. Foxconn is handling production.

The Wii 2, or Stream, could reach the market as early as mid-October 2011, though it’s possible that Nintendo could hold off from releasing the HD-capable console until early 2012. That would allow developers to build up a catalog of titles to take advantage of the Screen Stream technology. Pricing is believed to be in the region of $350 to $400.

As with Samsung’s panel, LG Display is targeting the screen technology at commercial implementations rather than something for your desk. The company reckons shopping malls and digital signage are the most likely uses, but we can’t quite lose our enthusiasm for LCD windows that can show us the headlines as well as the garden.

No word on when LG Display’s IPS LCD screens might be on sale, nor even if they’re in mass-production like Samsung’s smaller panels.

[via OLED-Display]

Unsurprisingly, LG Display took offense at the expletive, and while the company initially planned to let the insult pass without comment, it later began preparing for legal action. “There are business ethics and practices to follow even if we are competing with each other over technological standards” a spokesperson said, “it is very disappointing and unacceptable if an executive at a respected global company humiliated its rival company’s employees at an official event hurling a curse.”

The contentious technology is film-type patterned retarder (FPR) 3D, as on LG’s new CINEMA 3D LW5700 HDTVs. The company claims they are flicker-free and avoid the crosstalk present in Samsung’s competing active-shutter 3D systems.

Update: LG Display has apparently accepted an apology from Kim Hyun-suk and is no longer planning legal action. “We spoke about the letter with our engineers” the company said in a statement, “and decided to accept the apology because we believe Samsung Electronics and the executive in question have gone through self-reflection.” [Thanks Kunal!]

[via Gizmodo]

The Sony BDP-S280, BDP-S380, BDP-S480, BDP-S580, BDP-S780, BDV-E280, BDV-E580 and BDV-E780W have all been confirmed as having VUDU support, though Sony’s entire Blu-ray line in 2011 will apparently get the service. VUDU pushed its updated UI to the PS3 earlier this year, with the promise of Move control coming later on.

Press Release:

VUDU Goes Live on Sony 2011 Connected Blu-ray Disc Players

Santa Clara, CA – (March 15, 2011) – VUDU, the leader in HD streaming, today announced that its steaming movie service is shipping on the 2011 line of Sony connected Blu-ray Disc™ Players, offering instant access to the extensive VUDU library of Hi-Definition movies from all major Hollywood studios and leading independent distributors.

VUDU, a subscription-free service, provides consumers with the highest quality cinematic experience via instant streaming of 1080p movies with Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound. The VUDU library boasts the most extensive collection of HD and HDX movies from all major Hollywood studios, offering most titles the same-day as DVD release. On Sony’s 3D enabled devices, users can also access 3D content.

All 2011 Sony Blu-ray Disc Players and Blu-ray Disc Home Theater Systems feature VUDU, including:

· BDP-S280

· BDP-S380

· BDP-S480

· BDP-S580

· BDP-S780

· BDV-E280

· BDV-E580

· BDV-E780W

“From the newest Hollywood blockbusters to our extensive library of classics, VUDU continues to give people more options to discover and enjoy the highest quality movie experience in their living room,” said Edward Lichty, General Manager of VUDU. “By adding Sony Blu-ray Disc Players to our roster of top tier connected devices we provide yet another avenue to for anybody to enjoy a great movie, with a simple click of a button.”

VUDU-enabled 2011 Sony Blu-ray Disc Players are available now in select stores and will be shipping nationally in March. Models include connected and 3D capable devices.

The “MR” suffix stands for “Multi Recording”, and basically means that while you’re shooting 1080p HD video on the SZ-30MR, you can also fire off still images as well. That’s not especially new, but what makes the difference here is that the Olympus captures stills at full resolution; other cameras which offer simultaneous shooting generally take pictures at much lower resolution than they can normally manage.

The SZ-20 lacks the simultaneous shooting abilities and makes do with a sizeable zoom. Both will go on sale in March, priced at €329 for the SZ-30MR and €219 for the SZ-20.

Press Release:

Introducing the first ever camera to capture Full HD movies & 16 Megapixel stills simultaneously

Olympus Super Zoom Series posts another world first
New SZ-30MR & SZ-20 deliver high-tech at its finest

Hamburg, 2 March 2011 – When Olympus launched the SZ-10 in February, it was hard to believe the zoom in a compact camera could get any more powerful. The new SZ-30MR proves that it can. With a jaw-dropping 24x wide optical zoom (25-600mm*), this state-of-the-art flagship breaks all the rules in the compact category – and it breaks records too. The SZ-30MR is the first camera ever to offer simultaneous recording of 1080p Full HD movies and 16 Megapixel still photos. So with the SZ-30MR, users can shoot in high resolution with different combinations of recording modes at once, then share their shots in the format of their choice. For example, as a movie and digital still or a wide-angle shot and a close-up. Like the SZ-30MR, the new SZ-20 is astonishingly slender for a camera with huge zooming power. The super-slim design makes both SZ models ideal for people who like to travel light but insist on the very best spec. With a backlit CMOS sensor for excellent pictures in low light, 3D photo shooting and Eye-Fi card compatibility, these cameras combine practicality with beauty and sheer imaging power. The SZ-30MR is available for €329, the SZ-20 for €219, both from March 2011.

MR is for a Multi Recording
The SZ-30MR is the world’s first camera to record 1080p Full HD movie and 16 Megapixel stills at the same time – thanks to an ingenious feature Olympus calls Multi Recording. For anyone who’s ever shot a scene one way, then (when it was too late) wished they’d done everything differently, MR is a must. Dual Engine TruePic III+ image processors give the
SZ-MR30 the power to record simultaneously in more than one mode, and in a variety of combinations. Users can record two different movies at once: in wide-angle and close-up; Full HD and lower resolution; or original and filtered (using one of the SZ-30MR’s seven Magic Filters for movies). In addition, with the Photo with Movie Clip setting, it’s now possible to capture moving footage before and after taking a single photo. These innovations give users the fun and flexibility of sharing their shots in a variety of media – from full-size prints to video clips for their favourite social media website. Both new models come with wireless Eye-Fi compatibility, so they can upload photos automatically to the Web – no cables required.

SZ is for Super Zoom
The Super Zoom SZ Series lives up to its name with a 24x wide optical zoom on the SZ-30MR and an equally impressive 12.5x super wide optical zoom on the significantly lower priced SZ-20. With this sort of zooming power it’s easy to take exceptional shots, from the expressive face of a gargoyle high up on a church roof to an emotive movie close-up of battling athletes. The pixel-rich 1080p Full HD movie format ensures the best moving picture quality currently available in a compact camera – with breathtaking realism, clarity and colour when users play back on a large Full HD TV.

S is for state-of-the-art
The SZ-30MR and SZ-20 are packed with the smartest technology the compact camera world has to offer, giving users a host of features that make it easy to get creative, transfer movies or photos wirelessly and capture just the shot they want in excellent quality. Both cameras offer 3D still photo shooting and eight Magic Filters, including the new Sparkle and Watercolour options. Pet Detection mode automatically snaps dog or cat faces just as they look up, while with Smart Panorama, users simply pan from side to side to get a sweeping panorama picture.

The SZ-30MR is available in black for €329, the SZ-20 in silver and black for €219, both from March 2011.

Distinguishing features:

OLYMPUS SZ-30MR

Image Quality

• 24x wide optical zoom (25-600mm*) for exceptional close-ups

Creativity & Flexibility

• Multi Recording with Dual Engine TruePic III+ image processor for recording movies and photos simultaneously, or two movies in different modes or from different angles

OLYMPUS SZ-20

Image Quality

• 12.5x super wide optical zoom (24-300mm*) for superb close-ups
• TruePic III+ image processor for ideal colour reproduction and low noise

Common features:
Image Quality

• 1080p Full HD Movie with sound for capturing movies in the best image quality currently available in compact cameras
• 16 Megapixel backlit CMOS sensor for high-resolution, superb-quality full-size movies, stills and prints, even in low light
• Dual Image Stabilisation for reducing blur with fast-moving shots

Usability

• 3” colour LCD (460,000 dots) for easily framing, reviewing and sharing shots
• Smart Panorama for capturing sweeping stills just by panning the camera
• Handheld Starlight Mode for shooting blur-free at night without a tripod
• Advanced Face Detection and Shadow Adjustment Technology for capturing people’s faces just as you want them
• Beauty Mode for hiding unwanted blemishes
• Intelligent Auto Mode (i-Auto) and AF Tracking for easy setting and focussing
• Pet Detection Mode for automatically capturing dog’s or cat’s faces when they look at the camera
• Scene Mode for automatic settings that suit specific conditions (e.g., Landscape, Night)

Creativity & Flexibility

• Eye-Fi Card compatibility for automatic wireless uploading of images to a website or PC
• 3D photo shooting mode for striking stills
• Magic Filters for adding creative effects to HD movies and/or stills:
Punk, Pop Art, Pin Hole, Drawing, Soft Focus, Fish Eye, plus new Sparkle (photos only) and Watercolour

Other key features

• Photo surfing and [ib] software for browsing, organising and viewing images by person, place, location or event
• HDMI technology for controlling your camera from one remote when it’s connected to HD equipment
• ISO 80 to 3200
• SDHC and SDXC memory card compatible**
• Built-in flash
• In-camera manual
• USB charging

* 35mm camera equivalent.
** SD is a trademark of SD Card Association.

For a full list of features, please go to http://www.countryspecificurl.com

For questions or additional information, please contact:

Julia Rauther
Olympus Europa Holding GmbH
Tel.: +49-40-23773-4258
Email: Julia.Rauther@Olympus-europa.com
http://www.olympus-europa.com

Appendix

1080p Full HD Movie recording
1080p Full HD movie recording (1920 x 1080) offers the best moving picture quality available in a compact camera today. With Full HD, footage is realistic, smooth, bright and clear. Movies become a fascinating window on real life when viewed on a big Full HD TV.

3D Mode (3D photo shooting)
Captures two shots of a scene from two different angles to create still photos that can be viewed with the added excitement and realism of 3D (on a 3D-compatible display). There are two 3D settings: Manual and Automatic. In both settings, the camera indicates when it is time to pan. In Automatic, when the camera is panned horizontally after the first shot, it automatically takes the second shot at the ideal moment. Manual is for 3D experts – the user decides when to take the second shot.

Advanced Face Detection technology
A technology that searches for faces in a composition and recognises them as the main subject. It then automatically puts them in focus and optimally adjusts exposure to create an image that’s sharp in the right places and ideally exposed. Advanced Face Detection Technology can detect up to 16 faces.

AF Tracking
This system tracks a moving subject automatically and keeps it continually in focus – for optimally focused and exposed pictures. It even memorises the subject when it goes out of frame and resumes tracking when it reappears.

Beauty Mode
Beauty Mode touches up the appearance of subjects even while the shot is being taken. This feature recognises faces and automatically makes skin on the face and adjacent areas appear smoother, brighter and more youthful.

Dual Image Stabilisation
Providing two-fold protection, this special function helps to avoid image blur caused by camera shake or fast-moving subjects. It combines high ISO values with a sensor-based mechanical image stabiliser, where a built-in gyro sensor detects camera movement and adjusts the sensor accordingly.

Eye-Fi card compatibility
Lets users insert an Eye-Fi storage card and set it to automatically wirelessly transfer new photos and HD movies to the sharing website and computer of their choice.

i-Auto Mode
The “intelligent-Auto” mode uses advanced automatic detection technology that enables the camera to automatically recognise the most commonly shot scenes. This makes it possible to capture perfect photos without the need for manual settings.

[ib] software
Olympus now offers [ib], an integrated photo browsing and organising software. Images can be organised by person with a new face recognition technology, by place with a GPS-based mapping function or by event.

Magic Filters
Make it possible to create special artistic effects in still images and/or movies directly in the camera.

Fish-Eye: Simulates the dramatic effect of a fish eye lens, lending a new perspective to the whole scene with a “wrap-around” effect.
Pin Hole: Reduces peripheral brightness, like with an image seen through a pinhole. A unique colour tone results in a style that has an air of secrecy or portrays the feeling of being lost in another dimension or space.
Pop Art: Enhances colours, making them stronger and more vivid, to create high-impact pictures that express the light-hearted feeling of the pop art style.
Punk: Displays images primarily in contrasting pink and black to give them an edgy, punk-inspired feel.
Drawing: Transforms images into line drawings to give the impression that subjects have been sketched by an artist.
Soft Focus: Creates a soft tone that gives pictures an ethereal, otherworldly atmosphere. It renders pictures as though they were veiled in heavenly light, without obscuring details such as hair or flower petals.
Sparkle (photos only): Adds twinkling lights to objects.
Watercolour: Another piece of artistic wizardry. This time images are turned into a watercolour painting surrounded by soft light.
Multi Recording
A world-first, Olympus Dual Engine technology allows users to combine various photo and movie recording modes simultaneously:

Photo & Movie: A Full HD movie and 16 Megapixel full-size photos. While users are recording a Full HD movie, they can take a high-resolution photograph as well.
Photo with Movie Clip: Records a Full HD movie before and after taking a photo.
Multi-File Movies: A Full HD movie and a movie with less resolution.
Multi-Framing Movies: A wide-angle and a close-up Full HD movie.
Magic Filter & Original Movie: A regular Full HD movie and a movie with a Magic Filter effect.

Pet Detection
Automatically detects dog or cat faces (two different modes) and works together with the Auto Release to capture the photo the moment the dog or cat turns to face the camera.

Photo Surfing
By selecting this option in the Playback menu, users can opt to browse pictures by date, scene, person, place, or image collection.

Scene Mode
Offers a choice of different scenes to suit the subject being captured, for example, landscape, night, beach and snow or pet. The camera automatically adjusts a host of parameters to achieve the best possible result for the chosen scene.

Shadow Adjustment Technology (SAT)
A technology designed to improve exposure for pictures with dark areas. Using a sensor that works much like the human eye, dark parts of a composition (e.g., a shadow under a tree) are identified and the camera then adjusts the exposure settings accordingly for those areas. The result is a more realistic and detailed picture.

Smart Panorama
Allows the user to create an impressive super-wide angle, wrap-around photo simply by panning the camera horizontally or vertically. There’s no need to pay attention to points of intersection – the camera knits the separate stills together automatically.

TruePic III+ image processor
Automatically enhances important aspects of image quality, including colour reproduction (range, saturation and brightness) and picture sharpness (reduced image noise, improved edge reproduction), as well as processing data faster. Supports the Magic Filters that enable unprecedented creative expression.

It’s supplied with a pair of active shutter glasses and uses three separate Silicon X-tal Reflective Display (SXRD) panels that split up the red, green and blue picture. There’s also 1,000 ANSI brightness and Advanced Iris3 automatic iris control, along with a 24p film mode. Yours for $9,999.99.

[via 3D-Display-info]

Talking to TI earlier today, the company was at pains to highlight that it had been talking about – and, more importantly, working on building in support for at the chipset level – Full HD 3D support in its chips since the first days of the OMAP4, whereas rivals have come to those capabilities more recently. That means on Tegra 2 the ARM processor has to do the crunching, whereas in the OMAP4 it’s shunted to dedicated DSP.

TI’s OMAP5, meanwhile, will add in chipset-level support for four simultaneous camera streams, which will mean devices using it will be able to record 3D using twin cameras on both sides. That opens the door to 3D streaming video calls.

The PowerShot SX230 HS has a 14x optical zoom with optical image stabilization, a wide-angle 28mm equivalent lens and a 3-inch preview display, and will drop at the end of March for $349.99. It also has an integrated GPS receiver for geotagging photos.

As for the ELPH 500 HS, ELPH 300 HS and ELPH 100 HS, they have 4x, 5x and 4x optical zooms respectively, and 3.2-inch, 2.7-inch and 3.0-inch displays respectively. The Canon PowerShot ELPH 500 HS will drop at the end of March for $299.99, while the PowerShot ELPH 300 HS and PowerShot ELPH 100 HS will arrive mid-March for $249.99 and $199.99 respectively.

Press Release:

ELEVATING QUALITY WITHOUT COMPROMISE: CANON U.S.A. INTRODUCES FOUR NEW POWERSHOT CAMERAS WITH CANON’S HS SYSTEM AND FULL HD VIDEO CAPABILITY

Canon Premieres the World’s Thinnest Camera with 24mm equivalent lens, 5x Optical Zoom; Rebrands the PowerShot ELPH Models and Introduces GPS Capabilities in the PowerShot SX230 HS Digital camera

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y.,February 7, 2011 – When capturing a surprise wedding engagement on Valentine’s Day or a friend’s birthday celebration in a dimly lit lounge, a high-performance camera withextraordinary features is essential to enhance the ambiance of these moments. Helping to better capture the moment, Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging, today announced four new PowerShot Digital cameras: the PowerShot SX230 HS, ELPH 500 HS, ELPH 300 HS and ELPH 100 HS models. With these new introductions, Canon debuts the world’s thinnest 24mm wide angle, 5X Optical zoom model1, the PowerShot ELPH 300 HS, along with a Canon-first, GPS-equipped camera, the PowerShot SX230 HS model. In addition, all four cameras come equipped with Canon’s HS SYSTEM for exceptional shooting in low-light, Full 1080p HD video, new Movie Digest Mode and 32 Smart AUTO scenes.

“Canon’s core philosophy when launching a camera product is to discover new and innovative ways to redefine the photographic experience.” said Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Imaging Technologies and Communications Group, Canon U.S.A. “Consumers are always looking for the most advanced technologies and these new PowerShot models combine the high-level features and overall functionality the end-user has been seeking.”

Rebranding of the ELPH models:

Showcasing the true evolution of the ELPH brand, the new PowerShot ELPH models have now instituted a “HS” suffix to represent the inclusion of the HS SYSTEM in each model. The renaming of the ELPH model will help to better correlate with Canon’s ever-increasing capabilities in its PowerShot Digital cameras, while retaining its popular identity. With the ELPH 500 HS, ELPH 300 HS and ELPH 100 HS Digital cameras, the new names of the ELPH models will also serve as an easy solution to help consumers make an informed decision about which camera to purchase.

Introduced last year, the HS SYSTEM is a technology used to enhance image quality in low-light situations without the need for a flash. Making up the HS SYSTEM in these new models is Canon’s DIGIC 4 Image Processor combined with a High-Sensitivity CMOS sensor, which helps to reduce noise at high ISO levels and expand the camera’s dynamic range, ultimately capturing greater detail and color in images in darker settings, like a wedding reception. With the use of the HS SYSTEM, consumers are able to capture clearer images with less noise and blur, resulting in brilliant, sharp images.

It’s all about location, location, location

When vacationing in Venice or taking a family-camping trip, there are many opportunities to capture a keepsake photo. However, years later, it may be difficult to remember the location the image was taken. Canon’s new GPS feature in the Canon PowerShot SX230 HS model will help make it easier to pinpoint the exact spot2. Through a dedicated receiver, the camera is able to collect signals from GPS satellites to obtain the latitude, longitude and altitude and records this information to the image’s EXIF data3. The map utility software included with the camera permits viewing of photos on a map and shows the location of where the image was shot. The PowerShot SX230 HS also has an internal GPS logger, another first for a PowerShot model, helping to track the day’s route on a map, making it a useful application for long-term trips.

Shooting video like never before

Having the ability to shoot HD video is imperative when capturing a full sequence of events, such as attending a high-end runway show in New York City or witnessing a baby’s first steps. The Canon PowerShot SX230 HS, ELPH 500 HS, ELPH 300 HS and ELPH 100 HS now feature Full 1080p HD video with Dynamic Image Stabilizer, providing secure, stellar resolution in a compact frame. A new feature called Movie Digest mode can be found in all the new PowerShot models, allowing consumers to shoot a short video before capturing a still image and then combine a full day’s worth of videos into one clip, making it easier for consumers to relive those special moments again and again.

Increase intelligence with Smart AUTO

The quest to capture the perfect image can be difficult if the camera does not have the correct settings. Helping to make the photographic journey that much easier, the new Canon PowerShot Digital cameras have advanced Smart AUTO with 32 different shooting scenes. Smart AUTO is helpfulsince the camerawillautomatically select settings that match the scene without the need to switch modes, making it possible to take beautiful photos in a variety of situations. Tracking desired objects on a screen with ease, Advanced Subjection Detection has been added to the Smart AUTO function as well, providing the successful capture of fast moving objects, vehicles or birds flying across the sky. By simply pressing the shutter button, the Advanced Subject Detection automatically identifies certain objects like a fish in an aquarium. After pressing the shutter button, the Servo Auto Focus/Auto Exposure continues to function and the focus and exposure of the moving subject continues to be tracked, making it possible to shoot without the subject passing by.

Helping to add more artistic flair to images is the inclusion of Toy Camera effect and Monochrome effect to the scene mode category for all four of the new Canon PowerShot models. Toy Camera Effect adds a grainy, blurred look to soften photos, illustrating an old-school, 1960’s appearance and Monochrome mode can make a photo either have black-and-white, blue or sepia tones, displaying a more classic, antiqued appearance.

PowerShot SX230 HS Digital Camera:

Available in black, red and blue, the Canon PowerShot SX230 HS Digital camera features a

12.1-Megapixel High-Sensitivity CMOS Sensor with a powerful 14X Optical Zoom with Optical Image Stabilization. This new camera also includes a wide-angle 28mm equivalent lens, aiding in the capture of group pictures and a 3.0-inch LCD screen for easy viewing and scrolling through menus.

The PowerShot SX230 HS will be available at the end of March for an estimated selling price of $349.99.

PowerShot ELPH 500 HS, ELPH 300 HS and ELPH 100 HS Digital cameras:

Available in silver, brown and pink, the Canon PowerShot ELPH 500 HS features a 3.2-inch wide, intuitive, touch-panel LCD screen. The PowerShot ELPH 500 HS also has a bright f/2.0 lens, enabling users to take photos without a flash, resulting in a more natural look while providing greater depth of field. The camera also possesses a 12.1-Megapixel High-Sensitivity CMOS sensor along with a 4.4X Optical Zoom with Optical Image Stabilizer and an ultra-wide angle 24mm equivalent lens, which is ideal for large group shots at a family reunion or high school graduation.

The Canon PowerShot ELPH 300 HS Digital camera has a 12.1-Megapixel High-Sensitivity CMOS sensor, 5X Optical Zoom, an ultra-wide angle 24mm equivalent lens along with a 2.7-inch LCD screen and is available in red, black and silver. The PowerShot ELPH 100 HS Digital camera possesses a

12.1-Megapixel High-Sensitivity CMOS sensor, 4X Optical Zoom, a wide angle 28mm equivalent lens and 3.0-inch LCD screen and comes in blue, gray, pink, silver, and orange.

The PowerShot ELPH 500 HS is scheduled to be available at the end of March for the estimated retail price of $299.99, while PowerShot ELPH 300 HS and PowerShot ELPH 100 HS Digital cameras are scheduled to be available in mid-March for an estimated selling price of $249.99 and $199.99 respectively.

About Canon U.S.A., Inc.

Canon U.S.A., Inc., is a leading provider of consumer, business-to-business, and industrial digital imaging solutions. Its parent company, Canon Inc. (NYSE:CAJ), a top patent holder of technology, ranked fourth overall in the U.S. in 2009†, with 2009 global revenues of US $35 billion and is listed as number six in the computer industry on Fortune Magazine’s World’s Most Admired Companies 2010 list. Canon U.S.A. is committed to the highest levels of customer satisfaction and loyalty, providing 100 percent U.S.-based consumer service and support for all of the products it distributes. At Canon, we care because caring is essential to living together in harmony. Founded upon a corporate philosophy of kyosei – “all people, regardless of race, religion or culture, harmoniously living and working together into the future” – Canon U.S.A. supports a number of social, youth, educational and other programs, including environmental and recycling initiatives. Additional information about these programs can be found at www.usa.canon.com/kyosei.To keep apprised of the latest news from Canon U.S.A., sign up for the Company’s RSS news feed by visiting www.usa.canon.com/rss.

# # #

1As of January 28, 2011.

2In certain countries and regions, the use of GPS may be restricted. Therefore, be sure to use GPS in accordance with the laws and regulations of your country or region. Be particularly careful when traveling outside your home country.

3As a signal is received from GPS satellites, take sufficient measures when using in locations where the use of electronics is regulated.

†Based on weekly patent counts issued by United States Patent and Trademark Office.

All referenced product names, and other marks, are trademarks of their respective owners.

Availability, specifications and prices subject to change without notice. Actual prices are set by the individual dealer and may vary.

The prominent barrel hides a 10x optical zoom and a back-illuminated sensor capable of up to 10-megapixel stills or 1080/60p HD video recording at up to 36Mbps. Notch down to 5.7-megapixels and you can shoot at a crazy 60fps, while ISO ranges from 100 to 6400.

On the back is a 3-inch, 230k dot touchscreen with a twisty-tilty mount for vanity filming, while storage is courtesy of an SD/SDHC/SDXC card to augment 32GB of internal capacity. Optical image stabilization and a battery good for up to 320 shots round out the key specs. If the image quality is as good as the appearance, this could be one mighty appealing camera when it arrives later in the month.

Over time, I realized that my perception was off. Blu-ray has not only become my go-to platform when I want to buy movies or television shows, but it has also helped me replace the need for DVD in my home. Practically my entire DVD collection has been wiped out in favor of Blu-ray. And as time has gone on, I haven’t missed my once-beloved DVD one bit.

But now my time is being split between watching Blu-ray content and streaming video via services like Netflix and Amazon Video On Demand. I’ve found that not having to get off the couch to watch something I’m interested in is far more preferable than finding the DVD copy and popping that into a player. Call me lazy, but that convenience is something that makes streaming a staple in my home.

However, when I pit streaming against Blu-ray, I can’t help but choose the latter option when I want to sit back, relax, and enjoy a movie. The streaming option is certainly much easier to get up and running, and if I went all-streaming, I could reduce all the clutter in my entertainment center, but then I would lose the higher-quality video and audio that comes with Blu-ray.

Streaming is great, but do me a favor and pop Avatar into your Blu-ray player, running on your 1080p set, and tell me that isn’t the best way to enjoy that film. Yes, most streaming services, like Apple’s iTunes content on the Apple TV, are available in 720p, rather than 1080p, which makes the comparison a bit unfair, but isn’t that central to this entire argument? Until streaming can match Blu-ray in terms of overall quality and sound, it’s simply not the best way to enjoy content.

Luckily, companies like Vudu realize that. The company offers a 1080p option to customers that actually looks quite nice. But even in those cases where folks get 1080p content from Vudu, it can’t quite live up to the audio-visual quality we enjoy on Blu-ray.

And as convenient as Netflix is, the company’s streaming option in no way comes close to matching the experience of watching the same film on Blu-ray.

As much as I enjoy the many streaming services I use, they have a long way to go to match Blu-ray. Yes, streaming is convenient, and yes, it’s getting better by the day. But to say that it can be a replacement for Blu-ray, at least right now, is simply outrageous.

Of course, there’s more to high quality photos than a huge number of megapixels: you also need a decent lens in front of that, too, if you don’t want to end up with a murky shots that look like you tried to take them in a nightclub. Still, as long as manufacturers bear that in mind, we’re glad to see more pixels (and pixels being used cleverly) in mobile devices. OmniVision is sampling the OV10810 CMOS now.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in!]

Press Release:

OmniVision’s OV10810 — First Native 16:9 CMOS Image Sensor to Enable Simultaneous 1080p HD Video Recording and 10-Megapixel Image Capture

Native 16:9 Aspect Ratio Designed to Support Full Screen Photo and Video Sharing
SANTA CLARA, Calif., Jan. 6, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — OmniVision Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq: OVTI), a leading developer of advanced digital imaging solutions, today introduced the OV10810, a 10-megapixel CMOS image sensor built on OmniVision’s highly optimized 1.4-micron OmniBSI™ pixel architecture. The 1/2.5-inch OV10810 is designed to offer complete convergence between high-resolution still photography and full high-definition (HD) video by combining 10-megapixel burst photography at 30 frames per second (fps) with full 1080p HD video in a native 16:9 aspect ratio. This makes the OV10810 an ideal choice for digital still and video camera (DSC/DVC) hybrids and high-end smart phones.
“The OV10810 is a 10-megapixel image sensor that allows the simultaneous capture of full-frame, 10-megapixel still images and 1080p HD video at 30 frames per second, a unique feature that is exclusive to CMOS technology,” said Devang Patel, senior product marketing manager at OmniVision. “Allowing users to take pictures even while they are recording video is a key feature that bridges the gap between DSC and DVC, giving users the ultimate camera experience. Additionally, the sensor’s 16:9 aspect ratio reflects the increasing popularity of HDTV by capturing photos and video that align with the wide screen displays used in most of today’s TVs, notebooks and smart phones, further enhancing the user experience.”
Optimized to meet the performance specifications of next generation DSC/DVC applications, the OV10810 is outfitted with improved pixel and system architectures. The enhanced 1.4-micron OmniBSI pixel features significantly improved low-light sensitivity and full well capacity, as well as higher dynamic range and signal-to-noise ratio, making it the highest performing pixel in its class.
As a RAW sensor, the OV10810′s integrated programmable scaler enables either 1080p or 720p HD video capture at 30 fps while maintaining full field of view (FOV). At 2.6-megapixel resolution, the sensor operates at 60 fps with pixel binning, maintaining full FOV while offering significantly improved low-light sensitivity. At 5.3-megapixel resolution with cropping, the OV10810 runs at 60 fps. High frame rates enable a number of key benefits, including: slow motion photography, no image lag for shutter-less designs, continuous shooting, minimized rolling shutter effect, and real-time still image and video capture without changing resolutions.
The OV10810 features a 2 x 2 binning functionality to improve low-light sensitivity, and a post-binning re-sampling filter that minimizes spatial artifacts and removes image artifacts around edges to deliver clean, crisp color images. The OV10810 supports up to 8-lane LVDS or MIPI interfaces for high data transfer rates, and is compatible with a wide range of custom and merchant ISPs. The OV10810 comes in a CSP3 or RW package and is currently available for sampling.
About OmniVision
OmniVision Technologies (Nasdaq: OVTI) is a leading developer of advanced digital imaging solutions. Its award-winning CMOS imaging technology enables superior image quality in many of today’s consumer and commercial applications, including mobile phones, notebooks and webcams, digital still and video cameras, security and surveillance, entertainment devices, automotive and medical imaging systems. Find out more at http://www.ovt.com.

To be honest, iPad support is only one string to the iXtreamer’s bow; it’ll work as a DLNA/UPnP streamer, play back 1080p HD video with 7.1 surround sound, stream internet radio, work as a TwonkyMedia server and as a standalone NAS or FTP server. There’s also Blu-ray ISO support, the ability to use your iPhone as a remote control, and a full on-screen UI.

It’ll also play FLV streaming video from online, opening the door to accessing on-demand content as well. The iXtreamer is priced at £159 ($247) from Advanced MP3 Players and is shipping now.