[more product images after the cut]

The new TX series 120Hz sets, according to the company, are targeting customers looking out for affordable displays with premium features. The three models are 37, 42 and 55-inches, and are Full HD with 24fps capable panels, offering 5000:1 contrast (4000:1 on the 42-inch), 500 nits of brightness, 6.5 ms response time (4ms on 42-inch) and four HDMI connections. All three models are equipped with Motion Estimation/ Motion compensation to reduce judder and increase the smoothness of panning scenes. On 24P sources, the Westinghouse 120Hz displays will perform 3:2 pulldown converting them to 60Hz before doubling the frame rate to 120Hz. Nothing you’ve not already seen from the display market, true, but the keyword here is “cheap”. The TX-37F510Z has a MSRP at just $699, the TX-42F970Z of $999 and the TX-55F350Z of $1599, with anticipated launch dates from May to July of 2009.

Next up were the LCDs, a total of five affordable models each with 60Hz panels, that range from 21.6 to 47 inche of Full HD. There are number of useful basic features but nothing ground breaking here; the same goes or Westinghouse’s seven new 1366 x 768 WXGA resolution LCDs (the specifications of which are listed below).

In smaller-size monitors, the company introduced four new 16:9 aspect ratio LCDs, ranging from 1600 x 900 to 1920 x 1080 resolution fabricated with TN film panels, and one 16:10 PVA panel running at 1920 x 1200 resolution. I was given a product spec sheet which indicated all panels, including the PVA screen, offer 170/160 viewing angles, which could be a typo as the PVA screen definitely looked much better from an angle. All models are tree hugger enabled, eco-friendly displays with EPA Energy Star 4.1 Tier 2 rating, and are fitted with onboard stereo speakers.

Beyond Full HD, the company prepped a $50,000 digital signage LCD with a Quad Full HD resolution (3840 x 2160) of 8.3 million pixels. The business class display has a 56-inch widescreen panel, boasts 50,000 hours of lifespan with 1200:1 contrast, 500 nits brightness, 6.5ms response time and 176/176 viewing angles.

For business use, Westinghouse has a proprietary app to work in conjunction with the company’s displays. I was given a quick demo on the product, an easy-to-use and drag-n-drop ad builder solution to generate text and company logos, and support audio and video inserts with full HD resolution output. It wasn’t ajax but it was certainly very intuitive to use.

A few prototype goodies were plainly displayed with parts and pieces; there was a wireless picture frame with 4:3 aspect ratio screen running at 1280 x 768, a 7-inch portable TV operated on a battery (available Q4, 2009) with ASTC tuner, an IPTV media receiver ($199), and a 3D display beamed by a dual-projector setup (which Westinghouse expect to have on the market in two years time). Still, the main story here is the low-cost, high-performance HDTVs, and in today’s economy you can’t argue with Westinghouse Digital’s focus.

1080P 120hz LCD

TX-37F510Z (37″ 1080p 120HZ LCD HDTV)
Available June/July 2009; Estimated Retail Price: $699

• 120 Hz and Motion Estimation/Motion Compensation
• 37″ viewable HDTV
• ATSC/NTSC/CATV/Clear QAM
• 1080p; 1920 x 1080 resolution
• 5000:1 contrast ratio
• 500 nits brightness
• 6.5 ms response time
• 4 HDMI, 2 YPbPr, 2 CVBS/S, 1 VGA, 1 SPDIF

TX-42F970Z (42″ 1080p 120HZ LCD HDTV)
Available May/June 2009; Estimated Retail Price: $999

• 120 Hz and Motion Estimation/Motion Compensation
• 42.0″ viewable HDTV
• ATSC/NTSC/CATV/Clear QAM
• 1080p; 1920 x 1080 resolution
• 4000:1 contrast ratio
• 500 nits brightness
• 4 ms Response Time
• 4 HDMI, 2 YPbPr, 2 CVBS/S, 1 VGA, 1 SPDIF

TX-55F350Z (55″ 1080p 120HZ LCD HDTV)
Available May 2009; Estimated Retail Price: $1,599

• 120 Hz Motion Estimation/ Motion Compensation
• 55.0″ viewable HDTV
• ATSC/NTSC/CATV/Clear QAM
• 1080p; 1920 x 1080 resolution
• 5000:1 contrast ratio
• 500 nits brightness
• 6.5 ms response time
• 3 HDMI, 2 YPbPr, 2 CVBS/S, 1 VGA, 1 SPDIF

1080p LCD HDTV:

PT-22F380S (21.6″ 1080p LCD HDTV)
Available March 2009; Estimated Retail Price: $299

• 21.6″ viewable
• 1080p; 1920 x 1080 resolution
• 16 x 9 aspect ratio
• ATSC/NTSC/CATV/Clear QAM
• 1000:1 contrast ratio
• 300 nits brightness
• 5 ms response time
• 1 HDMI, 1 YPbPr, 1 CVBS, 1 VGA

VK-40F580D (40″ 1080p LCD HDTV / DVD Player Combo Unit)
Currently Available; Estimated Retail Price: $899

• 40.0″ viewable HDTV
• ATSC/NTSC/CATV/Clear QAM
• 1080p; 1920 x 1080 resolution
• Integrated front-slot load DVD player
• Pixel Direct™ technology that delivers DVD video to the screen using a direct path (the shortest path possible) and the least amount of signal processing
• SpineDesign™ construction featuring side connectors for easy accessibility, with picture view technology through the USB port.
• 1800:1 contrast ratio
• 8.0 ms response time
• 2 HDMI, 2 YPbPr, 2 CVBS/S, 1 VGA, 1 SPDIF

TX-42F450S (42″ 1080p LCD HDTV)
Available April 2009; Estimated Retail Price: $899
• 42.0″ viewable HDTV
• ATSC/NTSC/CATV/Clear QAM
• 1080p; 1920 x 1080 resolution
• 6000: 1 contrast ratio
• 400 nits brightness
• 6.5 ms response time
• Autosource™ automatic source detection and switching
• DayBright™ panel technology for stunning daytime or nighttime viewing
• SpineDesign™ construction featuring side connectors for easy accessibility, with picture view technology through the USB port.
• 4 HDMI, 2 YPbPr, 2 CVBS/S, 1 VGA, 1 SPDIF

VK-46F260S (46″ 1080p LCD HDTV)
Available April 2009; Estimated Retail Price: $1,199

• 46.0″ viewable HDTV
• ATSC/NTSC/CATV/Clear QAM
• 1080p; 1920 x 1080 resolution
• 5000:1 contrast ratio
• 500 nits brightness
• 6.5 ms response time
• DayBright™ panel technology for stunning daytime or nighttime viewing
• 3 HDMI, 2 YPbPr, 2 CVBS/S, 1 VGA, 1 SPDIF

VK-47F140S (47″ 1080p LCD HDTV)
Available April 2009; Estimated Retail Price: $1,299

• 47.0″ viewable HDTV
• ATSC/NTSC/CATV/Clear QAM
• 1080p; 1920 x 1080 resolution
• 4000:1 contrast ratio
• 500 nits brightness
• 6.5 ms response time
• DayBright™ panel technology for stunning daytime or nighttime viewing
• 3 HDMI, 2 YPbPr, 2 CVBS/S, 1 VGA, 1 SPDIF

LCD HDTV:

PT-19H340S (18.5″ LCD HDTV)
Available March 2009; Estimated Retail Price: $249

• 18.5″ viewable HDTV
• 16 x 9 aspect ratio
• ATSC/NTSC/CATV/Clear QAM
• 1366 x 768 resolution
• 800:1 contrast ratio
• 300 nits brightness
• 5 ms response time
• 1 HDMI, 1 YPbPr, 1 CVBS/S, 1 VGA

PT-22H340S (21.6″ LCD HDTV)
Available February 2009; Estimated Retail Price: $299

• 21.6″ viewable HDTV
• 16 x 9 aspect ratio
• ATSC/NTSC/CATV/Clear QAM
• 1366 x 768 resolution
• 800:1 contrast ratio
• 400 nits brightness
• 5 ms response time
• 1 HDMI, 1 YPbPr, 1 CVBS, 1 VGA, 1 SPDIF

SK-26H630S and SK-26H735S (26″ LCD HDTV)
Available March 2009; Estimated Retail Price: $399

• 26.0″ viewable HDTV
• ATSC/NTSC/CATV/Clear QAM
• 1366 x 768 resolution
• 800:1 contrast ratio
• 450 nits brightness
• 8 ms response time
• 2 HDMI, 2 YPbPr, 2 CVBS/S, 1 VGA, 1 SPDIF

SK-26H570D (26″ LCD HDTV / DVD Player Combo Unit)
Currently Available Estimated Retail Price: $499

• Front Slot Loading, Upconverting DVD Player
• 26.0″ viewable HDTV Combo
• ATSC/NTSC/CATV/Clear QAM
• 1366 x 768 resolution
• 800:1 contrast ratio
• 450 nits brightness
• 8 ms response time
• 2 HDMI, 2 YPbPr, 2 CVBS/S, 1 VGA, 1 SPDIF

SK-32H635S and SK-32H820S (32″ LCD HDTV)
Available March 2009; Estimated Retail Price: $499

• 32.0″ viewable HDTV
• ATSC/NTSC/CATV/Clear QAM
• 1366 x 768 resolution
• 2500:1 contrast ratio
• 450 nits brightness
• 6.5 ms response time
• Multiple HDMI, 2 YPbPr, 2 CVBS/S, 1 VGA, 1 SPDIF

SK-32H570D (32″ LCD HDTV / DVD Player Combo Unit)
Currently Available Estimated Retail Price: $599

• Front Slot Loading, Upconverting DVD Player
• 32.0″ viewable HDTV Combo
• ATSC/NTSC/CATV/Clear QAM
• 1366 x 768 resolution
• 1200:1 contrast ratio
• 450 nits brightness
• 6.5 ms response time
• 2 HDMI, 2 YPbPr, 2 CVBS/S, 1 VGA, 1 SPDIF

SK-37H730S (37″ LCD HDTV)
Available May/June 2009; Estimated Retail Price: $699

• 37″ viewable HDTV
• ATSC/NTSC/CATV/Clear QAM
• 1366 x 768 resolution
• 2500:1 contrast ratio
• 450 nits brightness
• 6.5 ms response time
• 3 HDMI, 2 YPbPr, 2 CVBS/S, 1 VGA, 1 SPDIF

LCD Monitors

L2031NW (20″ Class LCD Monitor)
Available : Second Half 2009; Estimated Retail Price: $199

• 20″ TFT LCD monitor, 20.0″ diagonal viewable
• True HD 16:9 aspect ratio, 1600×900 resolution
• 0.277 x 0.277mm pixel pitch
• High 1000:1 contrast ratio
• 250 nits brightness
• Fast response time of 5ms
• 16.7 million true colors
• Wide viewing angle: 170° H, 160° V
• HDMI (HDCP), VGA and stereo audio inputs
• Built-in stereo speakers: 1W x 2
- EPA Energy Star 4.1 Tier 2 compliant:
- Power consumption: <41 W
- RoHS Compliant L2220HW (22″ Class LCD Monitor) Currently Available; Estimated Street Price: TBD

L2220HW (22″ Class LCD Monitor)
Currently Available: Estimated Retail Price: $279

• 22″ TFT LCD monitor, 21.6″ diagonal viewable
• True HD 16:9 aspect ratio, 1920×1080 resolution
• 0.248 x 0.248mm pixel pitch
• High 1000:1 contrast ratio
• 300 nits brightness
• Fast response time of 5ms
• 16.7 million true colors
• Wide viewing angle: 170° H, 160° V
• DVI-D (HDCP), VGA and stereo audio inputs
• Built-in stereo speakers: 1W x 2
- EPA Energy Star 4.1 Tier 2 compliant:
- Power consumption: <55 W
- RoHS Compliant

L2427HW (24″ Class LCD Monitor)
Available: March 2009 Estimated Retail Price: $299

• 24″ TFT LCD monitor, 23.6″ diagonal viewable
• True HD 16:9 aspect ratio, 1920×1080 resolution
• 0.2715 x 0.2715mm pixel pitch
• High 1000:1 contrast ratio
• 300 nits brightness
• Fast response time of 2ms (gray to gray)
• 16.7 million true colors
• Wide viewing angle: 170° H, 160° V
• 2 HDMI inputs with HDCP, 1 DVI-D (HDCP), 1 VGA
• Built-in stereo speakers: 1.5W x 2
- EPA Energy Star 4.1 Tier 2 compliant:
- Power consumption: <59 W
- RoHS Compliant

L2635HW (26″ Class LCD Monitor)
Available: March 2009 Estimated Retail Price: $399

• 26″ TFT LCD monitor, 25.5″ diagonal viewable
• 16:10 aspect ratio, 1920×1200 resolution
• 0.287 x 0.287mm pixel pitch
• High 1000:1 contrast ratio
• 5000:1 dynamic contrast ratio
• 300 nits brightness
• Fast response time of 2ms (gray to gray)
• 16.7 million true colors
• Wide viewing angle: 170° H, 160° V
• 1 HDMI inputs with HDCP, 1 DVI-D (HDCP), 1 VGA
• Built-in stereo speakers: 1.5W x 2
- EPA Energy Star 4.1 Tier 2 compliant:
- Power consumption: <65 W
- RoHS Compliant

Creating the moulds requires a little work, which needs to be carried out by an audiologist used to taking impressions.  Budget around $50 for that to take place.  As you can see in the gallery below, the ear is first checked for any health issues or blockages, then a small sponge on a cord is threaded into the canal; this can cause a little discomfort, as it passes the nerve which usually stops you from poking a Q-tip too far down.  Once in place, pink silicon gunk is squirted in to fill the canal, and then you just have to wait for five to ten minutes for it to set.

The Customs use the same mini-plug adapter as the SA6 earbuds, meaning they’re compatible with the same headphone cable, W-1 wireless adapter and any other future peripheral Sleek come out with.  They company has committed to using that same connector in all future products, meaning the planned high-end and entry-level earbuds will also be compatible.  You’re also able to choose from a range of colors and even custom logos, laser-etched.

Unfortunately delivery takes around two weeks from ordering, mainly because each set of Customs are made by hand.  Just as with the SA6′s they can tune the treble and bass to your preferences; however once tuned there’s no way to change it.  We’ll have a full review when they arrive – the sound quality is promised to be even more impressive, with better isolation to boot – so until then, enjoy seeing my ears covered with what looks like frosting.

In the box you get the MobilePro unit itself, a narrow matte grey box with a single status LED, together with a magnetic vehicle antenna, cigarette lighter power adapter and printed installation guide.   It’s compatible with any cellular-equipped device, whether cellphone or 3G-integrated notebook; Wilson also produce a specific model for the iPhone and BlackBerry range.  Each will go on sale in Spring 2009.

Installation is straightforward: plug in the antenna and stick it, via the magnetic pad, to the outside of your vehicle.  The power adapter hooks up to another port, and that automatically powers the MobilePro amplifier on.  No settings or tweaking necessary; the status LED changes from red to green once it has a signal (amber means it’s overloaded by the cell site.  Whatever device you’re using it with must be within 6 to 12 inches of the MobilePro, which could limit your placement options or at least make a discrete permanent install tricky.  You also don’t get a phone cradle or recharging option, which means that if you’ve only got one cigarette socket you’ll have to choose between boosting and recharging your handset.  Still, with the right adapter it works both in the car and in the house.

At $250, Wilson aren’t aiming the MobilePro at your everyday user but at the mobile professional for whom ensuring a few extra bars, and therefore a few extra calls and a successful data connection, is worth the hassle.  Wilson promise to increase the transmission power to the cell site by up to 10x over the cellphone alone, and every MobilePro is apparently manufactured within a room with zero cellular signals, connected to a central server that monitors quality actually during the build process.  We’re waiting for the company to confirm which bands the MobilePro supports, and as such whether it’s only currently of use with US-spec 3G or will handle Euro 3G too, as well as how many devices it can boost simultaneously.

Of course, ease of setup and convenience is all pointless if the device doesn’t actually do what it’s supposed to: boost iPhone signal strength.  Initial impressions suggest greater call stability and improved sound quality, but we’ll be testing the Wilson MobilePro out over the next week to see if it’s really worth that premium price-tag.

In fact, four 1TB Nitro drives fit into the same space as a traditional 3.5-inch HDD, offering server builders new levels of capacity.   Active it consumes 4.0W; idle just 0.1W.  The sustained write speed is 215MB/s, and pureSilicon rate it for up to 2m hours of use.

Despite the reduced size, the Nitro is still too thick for standard notebooks and ultramobile devices, so we’ll likely have to wait until the next generation version to see 1TB in our portable devices.  pureSilicon also has the Renegade series, which are ruggedized and meet MIL-STD-810F for things like shock, dust and temperature resistance.

Press Release:

pureSilicon Debuts World’s First 1TB 2.5-Inch SSD — Most Compact SSD per GB

pureSilicon Inc. is demonstrating the highest-density SSD available today: the 1TB Nitro Series. This represents a major advance for the storage industry since it combines maximum density with high performance and low power demand. Four of these drives deliver 4TB in the same space as a standard 3.5-inch HDD, so server footprint requirements and energy consumption in data-intensive applications can be considerably reduced.

The 1TB Nitro SSD is the most compact SSD per gigabyte: 15.40GB per cubic centimeter in a 2.5-inch form-factor — at least three times greater than any other SSD on the market. This high density in a small form factor has been achieved through innovative engineering techniques coupled with advanced industrial design that yields an exceptionally thin enclosure.

This Nitro line of high-performance solid-state drives is designed for applications where data throughput and power consumption are paramount: server, networking, datacenter, supercomputing, and professional media. These applications require fast transfer speeds and involve the storage of massive amounts of data. pureSilicon has benchmarked these drives at speeds approaching the maximum bus speed of SATA II (300 MB/s).

Feature summary
– 1TB SSD in 2.5-inch form-factor (highest density ever at 2.5-inch)
– 300MB/s SATA II interface
– Industry-leading performance
– State-of-the-art industrial design

Specifications – Nitro Series SSD:
Capacities: 32GB, 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1024GB

Performance
– Transfer rate: 300MB/sec
– Sustained read: 240MB/sec
– Sustained write: 215MB/sec
– Random read (IOPS 4K): 50,000
– Random write (IOPS 4K): 10,000
– Latency < 100 µsec

Reliability
– MTTF: 2.0 million hours Environmental
– Temperature (operating): 0°C to +70°C
– Temperature (non-operating): -45°C to +85°C
– Shock (operating): 1500G, duration 0.5ms, half sine wave
– Vibration (operating): 20G peak, 10~2,000Hz, x3 axis

Power
– Active: 4.8W typical
– Idle: 0.1W typical

Physical
– 2.5in form factor: 100.2mm x 69.85mm x 9.5mm

pureSilicon also offers FIPS-compliant, rugged SSD

Also on display on the pureSilicon booth is the recently announced Renegade Series Solid-State Drives (SSD), the first SSDs to integrate hardware-based encryption approved by the Federal Information Processing Standard (FIPS). The Renegade SSD is also compliant with MIL-STD-810F, a military standard that requires the SSD to sustain reliable operation during a series of rigorous tests that validate its ability to endure the extreme environments typically seen in industrial and military applications.

The pureSilicon Renegade SSD addresses the demands of the most challenging environments where heat, vibration, and humidity preclude the use of traditional hard disk drives or regular, ‘consumer-grade’ SSDs. A dedicated on-board cryptographic processor provides hardware-driven 256-bit AES encryption that delivers instantaneous encryption and decryption of data without degrading performance.

Green philosophy

pureSilicon is committed to energy efficiency and develops storage products that yield high performance per watt. Whether the goal is to increase productivity in a mobile environment or reduce energy costs in a data center, deploying pureSilicon SSDs will help achieve successful results. Legacy storage products such as hard disk drives are becoming less energy-efficient as manufacturers strive for higher performance; SSDs offer superior performance scalability while achieving significantly lower energy consumption.

Available in early 2009

pureSilicon has begun sampling its Renegade SSD units on a limited basis to select customers, with shipments expected to commence in the first quarter of 2009. The Nitro Series SSDs will be available in Q3 2009, pricing TBD. For more information about the pureSilicon Nitro or Renegade Series SSD or to order samples, please contact oem@puresi.com.

About pureSilicon Inc.

pureSilicon designs, manufactures, and markets non-volatile, solid-state storage devices based on Flash memory technologies. Headquartered in New Jersey, the company specializes in developing leading-edge Solid-State Drives (SSDs) that meet the demands of the most discriminating environments. pureSilicon offers an extensive line of Flash-based memory solutions specifically targeting original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and original design manufacturers (ODMs). For more information visit http://www.puresi.com.

This device features a touchscreen as well as a slide out full QWERTY keyboard. webOS is designed from the ground up to have an always on data connection. The Palm Pre also can be used with a wireless charger to reduce the need for cords in your home. The Pre will give Sprint a much-needed jump as it will exclusively be released in the first half of 2009.

Palm was handed the Best In Show award by CNET, in partnership with the Consumer Electronics Association. The Pre is the first mobile phone to take home the Best In Show award at CES. Palm has really redeemed themselves with this announcement, now lets hope the handset performs in the filed as well as they claim.

Make sure to check out Pre Community for everything Palm Pre!

Something about having touch-sensitive buttons on a cordless phone just seems so right to me. All of VTech’s cordless phone systems cost less than $100. Using two Bluetooth connectivity to connect multiple handsets enables the LS6245 to perform like a two-line communication tool. With DECT technology you can expect the LS6245 to provide high-functionality with superior sound quality and range from anywhere in your home.

This cordless phone looks amazing with the touch-sensitive buttons accompanied by a large reverse LCD and white backlighting.  As part of VTech’s commitment to using renewable energy and aiming toward having zero waste, VTech’s DECT products are Energy Star(R)-certified.

Using GPS this application can determine the pre-programmed number that you are closest to and transfer the call to that number, or if you would like you may also choose another number from the list.

Coincidentally this application was submitted to Apple back on October 15th with no word on availability or even an approval. If you are interested in trying it out now you can head over toMynewber.com to sign up for a beta test.

After that, it was CES 2009, and the SlashGear team decamped to Las Vegas to cover the best-known consumer electronics show on the calendar.  The impact of the recession has certainly made its mark on CES, with what looked to be a lower attendee turnout and several booth cancellations.  Headline gadgets were also fewer and further between, though there were still a few notable announcements.

Surprise introduction was the Palm Pre, a new smartphone coupled with a new platform, webOS.  Despite getting thrown out of the press launch during our liveblog, we still managed to bring you the first images of the device on the net.  The QWERTY-equipped capacitive touchscreen slider is set to hit Sprint in the first half of 2009; make sure to check out our hands-on Pre report, Sprint & Palm Q&A, and visit Pre Community for more details.

A long-rumored netbook came to fruition too this week, in the shape of the Sony VAIO P.  Following the company’s usual path of no-compromise design and little accomodation for aching wallets, the VAIO P is an expensive ($899+) and interesting addition to the ultraportable space.  SlashGear is one of a very small number of sites with a VAIO P of our own; check out our first impressions here, and expect plenty more on this Digital Lifestyle PC very soon.  In fact I’m currently writing this Week in Review on the P, with only minimal squinting.

Elsewhere, we caught up with the latest version of Nokia’s N97 smartphone – which we’re looking forward to spending more time with at Mobile World Congress next month – and sat down with Creative to discuss their innovative Zii processor.  iRiver’s curious WAVE HOME reminded us that just when we think we can predict the company, they surprise us, and ASUS pulled a number of interesting devices – including the Eee PC T91 Tablet – out of the bag.

Elsewhere in the touchscreen space, OQO’s new Model 2+ – complete with OLED touchscreen and integrated worldwide 3G support – certainly endeared itself, and we’re looking forward to getting our hands on a review unit.  On an even smaller scale, it’s good to hear that the LG GD910 watch phone is headed for production.

Apple may have not introduced much hardware, but that doesn’t stop them influencing others’ design.  One of the more obviously “MacBook inspired” items at the show has been MSI’s X-Slim X320; make sure to check out our comparison photoshoot with the MacBook Air.

That’s just a small slice of our CES coverage, so if you want to catch up with all the good stuff from the show click on the CES 2009 tag.  We’ll be rounding up any remaining content that we may have missed from our memory cards in the coming days.

Finally, we have a new addition to the SlashGear family in the shape of Shawn Farner, who joined our editorial staff on Monday.  Shawn is a rabid social-media junkie as well as a tech-addict, and we’re hoping you’re finding his content as interesting to read as we are.

Routon fit the P760 with CDMA 1X as standard, but GSM/EDGE is also a possibility. Both 533MHz and 667MHz ARM11 processors are offered, and there’s standard WiFi b/g, Bluetooth 2.0+EDR and GPS. It measures a compact 166 x 88 x 16mm, has a dedicated numeric keypad, and weighs 250g; the battery pack is a 2,000mAh unit, though Routon would not suggest runtime estimates.

Other options include an integrated FM transmitter and DVB-T digital TV tuner. The software package on the show floor included browser, phone, SMS, Mobile TV and media player apps. Routon are currently looking for distributors for the P760; as such, there’s no word on pricing or availability, and the specifications are subject to change.

The significant difference with the new headphones is that they now have media control buttons on each earpiece. Previously you’d need to pull out your MP3 player or whichever source was being used in order to tweak the volume or skip through tracks; now you can do it from small rocker controls. Similarly, the over-the-ear headphones – which struck us as being somewhat bluntly designed – have control buttons on one earcup.

Both new headphones will work with DigiFi’s new PMP watch, a wrist-worn media player with color display, MP3 and MP4 compatibility, pedometer and watch. It also has an integrated Kleer wireless transmitter, capable of sending lossless, CD-quality sound to any Kleer-based headphones or receiver. DigiFi expect the PMP watch to launch in three to six months, priced at around $200, while the new headphones will arrive in a similar timescale but prices are unconfirmed.

As for the Cinemin Stick, that loses the poseable neck but gains extra pixels, being as it is capable of 800 x 480 resolution.  It also has an SD slot together with the standard video input.  The Cinemin Station is a larger affair, with integrated stereo speakers and a flap-down iPod dock at the front, headphone jack, audio/video inputs and 4:3 native aspect ratio.  Codec support has not been finalized on the two products, but expect the usual suspects of MPEG, AVI and similar.

The Cinemin Swivel will land in Spring 2009, priced at $299.  As for the Cinemin Stick and Cinemin Station, they’ll arrive come the Fall, priced at $349 and $399 respectively.

OpenMoko was showing me the Neo FreeRunner with Android OS. Many might wonder why they are showing a competitor platform on their handset, the answer is simple; OpenMoko supports open source movement and welcome any development involving their handset even if it utilizing other Linux stacks. Android runs quite well on FreeRunner, this does not surprise me at all as they are both based on the same platform.

OpenMoko confirms that the Neo FreeRunner is truly a handset for developers and mobile device hackers; mainstream phone users might find this handset usable but lack of many common features found in today’s phone such as camera. OpenMoko developers’ community has requested many basic hardware features to be added but there is no information from OpenMoko if those requests will be fulfilled this year.

Both models are headed to the Korean market but with plans on North America. One is a PMP – complete with internal 2.2-inch LCD display, DMB TV tuner, video and MP3 playback – and the other a touchscreen smartphone. The former, the MBP200, can project a 480 x 320, 50-inch image such as a video (DivX, Xvid, WMV9 Simple Profile, MPEG-2 or MPEG-4) or presentation file (pdf, ppt, doc, xls or txt), and supports up to 16GB of storage using microSD cards. It has both a 3.5mm headphone jack and a small built-in speaker, together with a video input socket.

Meanwhile the smartphone, the Anycall Show, takes the same projector technology and integrates it into a touchscreen handset with 3G, GPS and Samsung’s TouchWiz GUI. Firing up the projector is as straightforward as choosing “Projector” from the main menu and then selecting a source; that can be either video or still images (where PowerPoint and other Office files are seemingly categorized too). The camera button on the lower right-hand side doubles as a rotation control, flipping the picture to full-screen, and swipe gestures move between slides or pictures.

In use, the picture quality is surprisingly good.  The demo room was brightly lit, but colors were still relatively rich and, despite the only moderate resolution, showed plenty of detail.   While you’re unlikely to be watching a two-hour movie, it’s certainly a quick and easy way to show a new YouTube clip, impromptu slideshow or TV episode without weighing down your pockets.  The MBP200 is seemingly more likely to make it to market in the US and elsewhere outside of South Korea; the Anycall Show less so.  However TI tentatively told us that they’re working with a number of people to produce pico-enabled devices, so hopefully we’ll be able to get our hands on something similar very soon.

Nokia were clear that the device we’ve been seeing is nowhere near finalized.  Not only is the software still to be changed, but the physical design, including plastics colors and other detailing, isn’t as it will be in-store.  One side-effect is that the N97 you see in this demo – and in fact any other video demo – is not running at the final speed, which in the eventual release will be “much faster”; nonetheless, we found the handset to be relatively quick to respond.

A purposefully finalized hardware decision, though, is the touchscreen technology.  While many would have liked to have seen Nokia use a capacitive panel, such as on the iPhone, the company claim the resistive screen was a conscious choice.  That’s primarily for the range of input options resistive allows: gloved use, for instance, or handwriting recognition.  For the end-user, what it means is that you lose the zero-pressure control capacitive offers, but we didn’t find the N97′s touchscreen to be particularly difficult or unresponsive.

One seemingly must-have app on any new smartphone is Facebook access; Nokia couldn’t discuss with us how much input Facebook themselves had made in developing their app, which is expected to be available at launch.  As with other software for the N97, it consists of two aspects: the main app, and a widget that can be embedded into the homescreen and that gives at-a-glance updates.  Nokia’s Victor Brilon, senior manager of N-series technology collaboration, was keen to clarify that the homescreen widgets are not merely “tickers” that take you straight to the main program, but interactive in their own right.  It will take advantage of the always-on network connection to give real-time updates of status, comments and other details.

Multiple programs are expected to be available by the time the N97 launches, together with the ability for users to create their own.  These can range from simple widgets to full apps, although it was unclear exactly how complex the coding environment for that would be.  Nokia will be able to distribute software via their Ovi service; they’re also pushing developers to consider network good-practice, so that battery life doesn’t suffer due to over-use of the data connection.

The N97 is expected to first go on sale as an unlocked device, with Nokia suggesting US pricing in-line with a high-end current N-series handset such as the N96.  They couldn’t discuss any possible carrier partnerships or subsidies. 

Snapdragon uses a 1.5GHz dual-core CPU with integrated HSPA+, has 1080p high-definition support, WiFi, mobile TV and GPS capabilities.  Although based on the ARM platform, Qualcomm have modified the processors to run at three-times their usual speed; nonetheless, it’s incredibly power frugal, with the company suggesting that Snapdragon-based devices will be able to stay permanently connected to a data network.

That, says Qualcomm, makes Snapdragon ideal for Android, given its heavily internet-biased functionality.  The company has previously demonstrated a convertible touchscreen netbook based on the chipset, and separately have confirmed that Snapdragon devices would launch sometime in 2009.  Google themselves have always been upfront about their intention for the platform, and that they envisage it as more than just a smartphone OS; for more on the Google platform, visit our sibling site Android Community.

Press Release:

Qualcomm to demonstrate Android operating system on Snapdragon platform at CES 2009

Company Unveils Innovative OS Leveraging Unprecedented Computing and Connectivity of Snapdragon for Mobile Computing

Qualcomm Incorporated (Nasdaq: QCOM), a leading developer and innovator of advanced wireless technologies and data solutions, today announced that a demonstration of Google’s Android mobile operating system running on Snapdragon™ mobile computing chipsets will be available for the first time at the International Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, January 8-11, 2009. The demonstration runs at WVGA resolution which can support larger displays for mobile computing devices. The technology demonstration underscores the tight integration between the innovative Android platform and the unsurpassed combination of computing performance, low power consumption and ubiquitous connectivity capabilities offered by Snapdragon chipsets.

“Qualcomm’s vision for the Snapdragon platform to redefine how people access information is well-aligned with the Android platform’s capabilities,” said Mark Frankel, vice president of product management for Qualcomm CDMA Technologies. “We are excited to be showcasing Android running on Snapdragon chipsets which highlights some of the advanced functionality that will distinguish this next generation of mobile computing devices.”

Qualcomm Incorporated (Nasdaq: QCOM) is a leader in developing and delivering innovative digital wireless communications products and services based on CDMA and other advanced technologies. Headquartered in San Diego, Calif., Qualcomm is included in the S&P 100 Index, the S&P 500 Index and is a 2008 FORTUNE 500 company. For more information, please visit www.qualcomm.com

The NoteMagix M10, meanwhile, is another OEM rebadge and as such has the typical Intel Atom N270 1.6GHz processor, 1GB of RAM, a 160GB SATA hard-drive and WiFi.  General specs don’t differ too much from the norm – three USB 2.0 ports, VGA output, 10.2-inch 1024 x 600 display and 3-cell LiIon battery – so Velocity are looking to differentiate with slick accessories and customization.  Each M10 will be shipped with a smart neoprene carry-case and a mouse (either wired or wireless; they’re currently undecided).  Eventually they plan to offer as many color options as Apple does in their iPod nano range.

Pricing is not entirely confirmed, but the M10 is expected to be priced at around $399.  We’re waiting for confirmation on the M5 MID, but given the Gigabyte M528 – also based on the aigo reference design – is expected to retail at around $685, don’t expect it to be all that cheap.

Update: According to Velocity Micro, the M5 MID pricing has not been finalized but is expected to be under $500. 

Gallery of the other Viliv models after the cut, together with hands-on first impressions

Hands-on, the Viliv S7 is surprisingly sturdy and polished.  Internet access and general everyday tasks were speedy, despite the low-power 1.86GHz Intel Atom Silverthorne processor (a 1.33GHz version is an option), the touchscreen is responsive.  It’ll be interesting to see how it compares in testing to the ASUS Eee PC T91, which has a larger display and therefore more spacious keyboard, but at the sacrifice of size and integrated WiMAX and HSDPA.

The Viliv S5, meanwhile, is being positioned as more of an entertainment device, with a smaller 4.8-inch display running at either WVGA (800 x 480) or WSVGA (1024 x 600) resolution.  The screen is incredibly bright and crisp, ideal for video, and we’d certainly suggest opting for the 60GB versus the 30GB hard-drive so as not to run out of space for higher-resolution content.  Unfortunately there’s no SSD option, but you still get WiMAX and HSDPA, together with the same Windows XP base and therefore netbook-style functionality as the S7.  If they can keep the price of the S5 down, its combination of connectivity and 6hrs continuous movie playback runtime will add up to a very competitive PMP.

Finally, the Viliv X70 Atom is an update of Viliv’s existing X70 PMP using Intel’s new low-voltage 1.33GHz Silverthorne CPU.  It’s a mixture of S7 and S5 specifications, with the same 1024 x 600 7-inch touchscreen as the former, together with either 8 or 16GB SSD or 30 or 60GB hard-drive, with the tablet form-factor of the latter.  Either an external USB keyboard or an on-screen one can be used, and you get the same connectivity methods as its siblings.  In terms of speed, our brief hands-on suggests its certainly capable of general media playback – great news, given the excellent screen – but we’ll have to see whether the 1GB of RAM and the relatively slow processor hold it back from high-resolution content.

According to the Yukyung rep, the Viliv devices should be available in Spring 2009, priced between $500 and $700.  We’re hoping to arrange some review units, to test out whether they’re quite as useful as they’re promising.

Video demo of the iRiver P7 PMP after the cut

iRiver describe the interface of the P7 as being magazine-style, with various panes simultaneously displaying various media status across the system.  The docking station includes power and USB connections, as well as speakers for headphone-free use.  Battery life is rated as up to 50hrs audio playback.

SRS WOW HD and seven EQ audio presets are also onboard, plus a microSD slot for augmenting the storage.  In use it’s particularly slick, with screen transitions and other animations all smooth and bright on the large display.  Check out the full video demo and hands-on gallery below.

Check out the video demo of the Fuzebox after the cut 

The Fuzebox uses a custom home theater GUI on top of a Windows Vista box.  Minimize the GUI, however, and unlike Windows Media Center there’s nothing but a blank display.  There’s no way to install extra software, meaning minimal opportunities for clashes or crashes.  As standard, the Fuzebox we saw demonstrated had no Cablecard tuner installed, being a low-profile box, but plug in an external USB tuner and it will automatically be recognized and new Live TV/Record TV options displayed.

What you do get is the ability to stream audio to up to nine different zones – with Velocity Micro suggesting a wireless audio adapter on their site – with a very straightforward way to organize each stream.  DVDs – whether ripped or physical media – or Blu-ray discs  have their full menus, and there’s also a streamlined, large-font web browser, internet radio system and Netflix movie streaming with the ability to add titles to the queue direct from the Fuzebox GUI.

Bundled with the Fuzebox is a standalone app for a networked PC, which can be used to rip DVDs, automatically download cover-art and disc details, then automatically transfer them to the HTPC’s onboard storage.  Alternatively the Fuzebox can access content on other PCs or NAS drives, listing it among local content.  It’s available now, with the Fuzebox range beginning from around $1,599.

The ears, meanwhile, are the controls.  The left adjusts volume, while the right skips tracks; power is controlled via a button on the side.  A mini-USB port both recharges the Mickey and is used for file transfers.

Compatible audio files include MP3, WMA and ASF, but you’ll have to be a Windows user (2000, XP or Vista).  iRiver began shipping the PMP in mid-December in Japan, where it’s apparently proving to be a hit with elderly buyers wearing it around their neck with the included lanyard, at around 8,980 yen ($98).

Official statement from AT&T after the cut

“As you can imagine, there has been extraordinarily heavy demand for wireless services at CES, and as can happen in these situations, congestion may occur and people may experience occasional difficulty placing a call or using wireless data services” Brad Mays, spokesperson, AT&T

AT&T’s attempts to pacify users and suggest “occasional difficulty” is both insulting and short-sighted.  Remember, from both the SlashGear team’s experience and many other mobile professionals we’ve talked to here at CES, this has been an ongoing problem for much of today.  Never mind “occasional” data and voice breakdowns, we’ve struggled to place or receive a single call, and data is non-existent.  Apps like Visual Voicemail, such as on the iPhone, which rely on a data connection are also at the mercy of the absent connection, meaning when messages finally come through you’re unable to access them.

An event such as CES is always going to place strain on a cellular network, but this is no unexpected mass gathering.  AT&T have had a year to prepare their network and ramp up for the thousands of users in Las Vegas this week, users who have in many cases brought their AT&T cellphones and data modems expecting to be able to work productively.  In a week intended to showcase technological advances, AT&T have ironically managed to show how spectacularly unprofessional their service is.

Connecting to the internet via a wired ethernet link, the V-shaped WAVE HOME hides a wireless VoIP handset that doubles as a remote control for media use.  It’s also possible to use the device as an internet terminal, navigating via the touchscreen, and iRiver have added an online payments system that will eventually be able to read your credit card.

iRiver expect the WAVE HOME to be available sometime this year, priced at around $400.  Remember, our photo gallery of the WAVE HOME is here, together with more hands-on details, so check it out if you’re as interested in this iRiver gadget as we are.

I know your thinking this is just like every other media system but that’s where you’re wrong, the Vidabox Media Center System has more features including karaoke, lighting control, security system integration and HVAC controls. If using a remote to brows the synopsis and info of a movie just is not enough you can purchase a tablet secondary display in 8.4-inch or 10.4-inch screen sizes.

Users can also control separate zones, for instance your den and living room could be set up as two different zones. The VidaBox will also allow users to brows media via the tablet screen while in the middle of watching movies. If you love this product and would like to fully integrate it into your home your in luck, you can purchase a 3.6-inch, 8.4-inch or 12.1-inch in-wall touchscreen controller.  The VidaBoxRoom Client HD only costs you $29.99 with Rack Server Stations starting at $63.99.

Here are a few interesting tidbits from the writeup.  First off, Palm went on the record to say that, while their OS wouldn’t be a wide open free-for-all, they would be “flexible”.  When asked about a possible Palm OS emulator, Palm stated that, while they had no plans to develop one themselves, they’d allow a third party to do so.

Palm had nothing to say when asked about YouTube or Flash support on the Pre.  They also would not confirm the supplier of their touch panel.  Palm conceded that they could have gone with a larger display – however, they wanted to maintain the device’s one-handed operation.

The entire writeup is an interesting read, and I personally can’t wait to see the video, which is expected to post sometime soon.  To read the rest of the article, jump over to Pre Community.

[via Pre Community]

The Palm Pre comes with 8 GB of flash memory, which some would argue isn’t enough.  However, the Pre is a web-centric device.  Palm’s WebOS is built for constant web connectivity, so your data, such as your contact list, is constantly synching with Sprint’s servers online.

It was also learned that Pre users will have access to a special Sprint App Store.  App stores are all the rage, nowadays, so it’s very wise for the Pre to hop on the bandwagon.  When Sprint’s exclusivity with the Pre ends, Palm has said it will help other carriers create their own custom app stores.

There are a bunch more pictures as well as a video of the Palm Pre in action.  To check it out, head on over to Pre Community.

[via Pre Community]

According to Jeff Ravencraft of Intel, “It looks and feels like wired USB, only it’s wireless.”  That truly sums it up.  Devices such as wireless hard drives, speakers, displays, docks – you name it, and if it uses USB, it could very well become wireless someday thanks to Wireless USB.

Wireless USB transfers data three meters away at 480 megabits per second, which is about the same as wired USB now.  Over 130 products have been certified for Wireless USB so far, with more certain to follow.

[via Nanotech]

Just plug the Pogoplug into an internet line and follow the simple setup instructions and you will be able to access your music and video content as well as any other files you may have through any web browser securely outside of your home with no need to configure or compromise your firewall.

The Pogoplug is designed to offer anyone a simple and affordable solution to carrying your hard drives around with you. Last year alone over seven million drives were sold in the US alone with numbers growing as the general public becomes more aware of the technology. This service also works with the growing number of iPhones and BlackBerry handsets as well as many other HTML web browsers. We are not 100 percent sure about the available date, but you will be able to pick up the Pogoplug for $99 when it does release.

The Samsung P3 has a 3-inch WQVGA-TFT-LCD touchscreen that can display in portrait as well as 16:9 widescreen.  It’s 0.39 inches thick – a pretty skinny device.  It plays your music, media and, if that screenshot is any indication, it’ll have applications and games.  Sound familiar?  Right – it sounds a lot like the iPod Touch.  Fortunately, Samsung wisely added a unique feature.

What’s that feature, you ask?  Samsung is equipping the P3 with Bluetooth capability.  Why?  Well, for starters, you can pair the device with your Bluetooth-enabled phone, which then allows you to use the P3 to receive phone calls – you use your headphones and the built-in mic to talk.  Bluetooth also opens the possibility for wireless headphones and other wireless accessories in the future.

The P3 will debut sometime around July for an undetermined price.  It’ll come in a few different models – 4 GB, 8 GB, 16 GB and 32 GB.

Plastic Logic’s technology solves critical issues in manufacturing high- resolution transistor arrays on flexible plastic using low temperature processes that do not require mask alignment. The reader comes in a stunning form factor being only the size of a 8.5 x 11-inch piece of paper and also thinner than a pad of paper.

Plastic Logic is building these displays in their new stat of the part high-volume manufacturing facility in Dresden Germany. This eReader technology is set to launch in 2009 and become more commercially available in 2010.

The touchscreen is a 8.9-inch Touch Panel with LED backlighting. Under the hood you will find that it is powered by an Intel Atom Z520 processor. Weighing in at only 990g and 225 x 164 x 25.2 ~ 28.4 mm, this amazing little device is running Genuine Microsoft Windows XP Home.

There are a few options when purchasing this unit such as built-in GPS and TV Tuner. You can also get one of these in either black or white. Being big fans of the Eee line, we certainly can’t wait to get one of these in to review!

The new BOXXX ships with any new subscription made at fyretv.com and you may now subscribe for only a $9.99 a month subscription fee without ever signing a contract. FyreTV subscribers also et 100 monthly FyreCredits as part of their inaugural promotion. This fee gives users access to their full line if content as well as a number of available studio packages.

This set top box can either stream via Ethernet or wirelessly with 802.11B and G.  The available outputs on the BOXXX include HDMI, S-video, composite or component as well as optical audio. It may come as a surprise that this box is only 6 inches by 7 inches. The Unlimited Studio Packages give users unlimited access t 100- 1000 movies from their favorite studios for a monthly price that ranges from $6.00 to $39.99 depending on the content provided.

Users will get continual entertainment with diverse support of HD over the air digital TV, Analog TV, or FM Radio broadcasting featuring stereo sound support. With unencrypted HD clear QAM support users can enjoy more digital cable entertainment while viewing clear digital TV cable channels with the Aver MediaCernter application.

You can record your favorite programming with full Personal Video Recording (PVR) functionality. Included is a very powerful high gain antenna that provides users with a complete solution for their PC-TV entertainment needs.

The Gdium is fairly small weighing in at just 2.6 pounds with dimensions of 9.6 x 7.2 x 1.5 inches. This new netbook backs at 10-inch screen with 1024 x 600 resolution just above a full QWERTY keyboard (nothing new there). The software application package that comes with Gdium is based entirely upon open source software. Included are a bunch of familiar software applications including Firefox Internet browser, Thunderbird email, instant messaging and even VoIP support.

The Gdium also comes with a G-Key that is required in order to fire up the netbook. The G-Key contains the operating system, a Linux distribution by Mandriva, G-Linux, the applications and the personal data.  Gdium runs an optimized version of Mandriva Linux OS that has been specifically designed for a 64-bit system. EMTEC has priced this netbook in the $400 range in order to better compete with rivals and make their mark on the netbook market.

Sonoro is also releasing their new compact audio solution the Elements Tatou which is beautifully imprinted with Sonoro’s signature vine motif. The Elements Tatou is also available in black and white. The Elements product line includes the Elements AM / FM Radio, Elements Tutou, as well as the Elements W.

Originally the eDock was released to work with the Elements W internet radio, but now has been upgraded to work with the Elements AM / FM radio as well. Elements products also have a 3.5mm headphone jack line in.

As the smallest KVM switch that IOGear offers, you just plug it in any time you would like to transfer files or even if you would like to jump on your desktop for a moment without using the other keyboard and mouse.  There is also an extra USB 2.0 ports for the addition of storage device such as an external hard drive or desktop server.

There is no need for an additional power source as it is powered directly through the USB cable. Using Desktop Image Scaling you wont have to manually adjust your desktop to fit on our laptop screen. One click screen switching makes this device very simple and straightforward to use. For right now only Windows 2000 or higher, XP and Vista are supported.

Now you can move than external hard drive away from your PC or take your laptop to the couch without having to run a USB wire from he unit to your computer. The Kit provides users with everything they need to connect to their devices wirelessly with no need for complicated wireless network setup. The demo consisted of streaming seamless video wirelessly from an external hard drive directly to the laptop across the room.

Association mode allows you to manage up to 16 associated host adapters. There are a total of 7 channels (3 FFL and 4 TFL) that the Wireless USB Kit-Cable Replacement can operate on. This device fits easily in any place because it is about the size of a deck of cards.  You can also use the kit to attach printers wirelessly, of course this is only in a 30 foot range.

This is not your standard red and blue 3D crap, rather a full real easy to game with 3D environment. These very user-friendly glasses are easy to setup for even the most novice users. All you need is a sensor just above the keyboard and the wireless glasses along with the display and your ready to go. One thing that we really found odd was the lack of headaches and hurting eyes after playing Left 4 Dead.

For now the 3D glasses only show you 3D effects that go into the monitor with more to come that allows the picture to jump out of the screen at you. You will be able to pick these up soon at $399 for the display and only $199 for the glasses. This won’t even dent to pocket book of those who are willing to drop several thousand dollars on a desktop.

Until now they have only had four options when it comes to customization. These options include a 2-megapixel camera, motion detecting accelerometer, touchscreen LCD and GPS.  You will soon be able to purchase a 3G module, audio, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, Pico projector and Radio module.

These new modules will be released sometime time in the first quarter of 2009 with prices ranging from about $70 to $300 for the Pico Projector. They are also to announce a keyboard attachment soon after the release of these five modules.

The bike itself will take whatever watt your pedaling at and double it in output. Powering the 250 watt motor is a Toshiba SCIB supercharged battery that will provide roughly 15 miles of riding on a single 45 minute charge. The battery is guaranteed to last for 3,000 charges but has been tested up to 6,000 with 85 percent capacity. That is really great compared to the 500 charges that competing bikes boast.

These Pedal Assisted Bikes are available in the $3,000 range, which these days seems a whole lot more affordable than a car, insurance and gas.

Say you’re at home and your phone rings but you would like to speak on your home phone rather than being stuck to a wall charger with a dead phone. Now you can just transfer any call to your home phone and pick it up from there. This replaces the need for several other services provided by your mobile provider.

Frankly, for $79.99 it seems a bargain.  XLink also sell the BTTN gateway, which can connect to up to three cellphones plus a landline (or VoIP line), for $109.99.