Around 2,100 of the staff losses will be through voluntary early retirement, which Cisco has already negotiated with its employees. Those redundancies in the US, Canada and “select countries” will be announced in the first week of August, with the remainder worldwide to be revealed at a later, unspecified date.

While cost-cutting is Cisco’s stated intention, the downsizing will cost it significantly. Overall, the combination of redundancies and early retirement offers are expected to exceed $1.3bn over the course of 2011 and 2012, with the bulk in Q4 this year. It won’t be the only cost-cutting the company attempts, either: Cisco has warned of other restructuring charges incoming as a result of its attempts to “simplify the organization, refine operations, and reduce annual operations expenses.”

Whether that – or the expensive, $799 Cius tablet – will be sufficient to turn around Cisco’s financial future as a whole remains to be seen.

[via Telecoms]

With the Flip cameras gone, it will come as little shock that Cisco is also limiting the FlipShare service that allows the user of Flip camcorders to upload and share videos with other users. Rather than just pulling the plug this time, Cisco is giving users of the service the notice that all new videos will last only 30-days from when they are uploaded. That is a bit confusing if you don’t follow closely. Cisco isn’t ending the FlipShare service and you won’t lose your videos uploaded right away.

Apparently, Cisco will continue to support the FlipShare service for another two and a half years. The 30-day limit means that you can upload videos, but you better save them somewhere else too because after that 30-day window they will be removed from FlipShare. I would expect that most users that upload lots of video files will simply find another service and that it probably what Cisco is hoping will happen.

[via Engadget]

The product had been quite popular at one time with many celebrities toting around Flip cams, but with the onslaught of smartphone cameras—now boasting up to 1080p full HD along with instant sharing capabilities via WiFi and data plans, plus almost every other feature you can imagine—even the promising FlipLive WiFi-enabled camera is a step too late. On flip side, Flip die-hards feel there is still hope for the brand and the product, but that Cisco is simply giving up.

The New York Times’ David Pogue is talking a bit about the decision of Cisco to kill the brand. As he points out, it has only been two years since Cisco bought the brand. The purchase cost Cisco $590 million. Many people thought the smartphones we all carry around that can record HD video was the cause. Pogue reckons there is more to it that that with the relatively small portion of the country that actually uses a smartphone that can record video.

Another strange fact about the death of the Flip brand is that Pogue says that only a month ago he was briefed on the next production in the line, which was set to land yesterday. So as of a month ago Cisco was still full steam ahead on the Flip brand. What could change so much in 30 days? It comes down to this for David Pogue; Cisco wanted the Flip tech more than it wanted the Flip brand. That really makes sense considering that Cisco has all sorts of video conferencing tech in its core networking business. That would explain in a very tidy package why Cisco killed the brand rather than selling it off. The tech was worth the $590 million they paid.

[via NYT]

This included not only the Pure Digital team which started and successfully built the Flip business but also the retail and channel relationship’s Pure Digital had acquired. There may have been some technology aspirations with Cisco’s networking efforts but the consumer expertise Flip brought to Cisco was the real value.

That being said the shutting down of the Flip business by Cisco shows how difficult it is to succeed in consumer markets. Especially when consumers aren’t your core business. Cisco has made a comfortable living as a solutions provider for networking infrastructure. How you orient and design your business to go after certain verticals is no trivial thing and Cisco was built to sell to big business not to consumers.

The move also shows the declining market for stand alone video camera’s. In a world where technology is being integrated at a rapid level into nearly everything we touch stand alone devices are falling by the way side. Could this be a sign for E-Readers?

One other element factoring into the decision is what several other analysts have speculated around the desire for Cisco to begin a renewed focus on their core markets. Cisco has seen their core business threatened by HP in particular. By returning resources back to the core business Cisco can begin to ward of threats with a renewed focus and vigor.

We have seen time and time again in this industry how hard it is to be successful selling to both enterprises and consumers. The tried and true strategy continues to be: Focus on a customer base and build your business to cater to their needs.

The accessory is a tripod called the Flip Video Action Tripod and it is designed with lots of flexibility to be able to stand the Flip camcorders on a surface and more. The tripod is designed to allow it to attach to all sorts of things like a bike or helmet for instance.

Attaching the tripod to a helmet means that it will make for a nice little action camera. The tripod is cheap enough at $24.99 and it will work with all Flip camcorders. The neck of the tripod will allow the user to position the camera at any angle. The only downside I see is that the Flip camcorders aren’t rugged and one good crash might spell the end of your camera.

The iPhone microphone will be connected via Bluetooth, and will allow the user to record audio from the mic after pairing.

Scosche was named CES Innovations 2011 Design and Engineering Awards Honoree for their Flip freedoomMIC model. This microphone will connect to the Flip UltraHD 2 via USB and will also allow for wireless audio transmission.

Both of the microphones will retail for $99 and are still waiting for approval/certification, but we should expect to see them in March of this year.

Bluetooth Class 1 is used, for up to 100 foot range, and the microphone itself has noise-cancellation DSP and remote control buttons to start and stop the camcorder recording.  The rechargeable battery is good for up to 4hrs use, and will be in stores in mid-December priced at $99.99.

Press Release:

Scosche Designs freedomMIC™ Lavaliere Mic for new Flip UltraHD 2HR Video Camera

The new mic is the company’s first Designed for Flip Certified product

Oxnard, CA, – September 21, 2010 – Scosche Industries, an award-winning innovator of iPad, iPhone, iPod and now Flip video camera accessories, is proud to announce its first Designed for Flip certified products – freedomMIC™ lavaliere mic for the Flip UltraHD 2 HR/8 GB video camera. The Scosche freedomMIC receiver plugs directly into the UltraHD’s FlipPort™, which will come standard on all future flip video camera models, to provide users with the ability to wirelessly record high quality audio to accompany the Flip’s HD recording capabilities.

The freedomMIC features a high performance condenser microphone with DSP noise cancellation. Users can also wirelessly control record and stop functions remotely from the microphone/transmitter. The wireless system operates on Bluetooth Class 1 technology and provides up to 100 feet of wireless range. The complete system features the wireless transmitter and the microphone that that clips directly to the subject.

The freedomMIC is powered by rechargeable lithium ion batteries in both transmitter and receiver, which provide up to 4 hours of recording time. The receiver also features a pass-through tripod mount for securing the receiver to the camera and retaining the ability to use a tripod.

The Designed for Flip initiative teams Flip Video with leading companies in multiple product segments to provide a wide selection of general purpose and specialized products for both current and future Flip video cameras.

The freedomMIC will be available at scosche.com and from retailers that sell the new Flip cameras that feature the new FlipPort line in mid to late December 2010 for $99.99 MSRP.

That actually makes for a reasonable flexible pico-projector in its own right, and the iGo is capable of a 1200 x 800 picture in either 4:3 or 16:9 aspect ratio and with 20 ANSI lumens brightness.  Unfortunately it’s also a little more expensive than picos of recent months: Flip says it’ll be $349.99 when it arrives next month.

You also get a microphone input, allowing you to use the Mikey as a bridge for an external microphone, together with automatic volume control and a “Loud” setting that’s apparently intended for situations like concerts which might normally overwhelm a mic.  On the bottom is a tripod mount, and it’s powered by an AAA battery rather than sucking the juice out of your Flip.

Unfortunately, while the new Flip Video camcorders are on sale today, Blue Microphones don’t expect the new Mikey to be available until CES 2011 in January next year.  It’ll be priced at $69.

The two 8GB versions can store up to two hours of footage, while the 4GB models max out at an hour.  All but the cheapest UltraHD have image stabilization, and of course there’s the flip-out USB plug and preloaded copy of FlipShare for basic editing and uploading content.

The Flip Video UltraHD 4GB is $149.99 while the UltraHD 8GB is $199.99; the MinoHD 4GB is $179.99 while the MinoHD 8GB is $179.99.  They’re on sale today in various colors, or can be customized online at TheFlip.com.

Meanwhile Cisco has also kicked off a “Designed for Flip” accessories program, with various third-party companies taking advantage of the new FlipPort connector.  For instance, Blue Microphones will be offering the Mikey for Flip, an external microphone, while Scosche are readying a wireless clip-mic.  iGo have a new Pocket Projector accessory, a pico-projector which snaps onto the FlipPort for showing your footage at up to 70-inches.

Press Release:

Cisco Debuts All-New Flip Video Lineup

New Line Delivers Next-Generation Video Quality, Expanded Personalization Capabilities, and More Options for Fun
September 20, 2010 — San Francisco, CA
Cisco’s Flip Video™, the world’s leader in shoot-and share video cameras, today rolled out an all-new line of affordable UltraHD™ and MinoHD™ video cameras. These new video cameras feature Flip Video simplicity, enhanced HD video quality, hardware-based image stabilization, expanded product personalization options, and more ways to share video using pre-loaded FlipShare™ software. Flip also announced today Designed for Flip™, a new program offering fun accessories from a wide range of partners that include everything from wide angle lenses and external microphones to battery chargers and a portable projector (see separate release).

“This is without question the best line of Flip Video cameras we’ve ever created,” said Jonathan Kaplan, senior vice president and general manager of Cisco Consumer Products. “The new line combines Flip simplicity, affordability and fun with truly breakthrough video quality, image stabilization, and unlimited personalization options.”

Building upon the acclaimed Flip Video user experience — which makes it easy and fun for anyone to capture and share video — Flip Video’s new line has raised the bar again, by delivering amazing video quality without compromising Flip’s hallmark simplicity. By combining its innovative, always-on image stabilization technology with 720p resolution at 60 frames per second (fps), Flip now offers the consumer stunningly clear and steady video that’s both simple and affordable. The new Flip Video line is available nationwide starting at just $149.99, offering a video camera for every budget.

In addition, the entire Flip Video family is now available in personalized designs so Flip owners can express their own personal style with every Flip they buy, at no additional cost. Consumers can visit the Flip Online Store (TheFlip.com) to choose from thousands of designs from artists, celebrities, and iconic brands, or upload an image to create their own one-of-a-kind Flip video camera.

The new Flip video cameras also come pre-loaded with the latest version of FlipShare, which helps consumers easily organize, edit and share their videos. FlipShare upgrade now includes direct posts to Twitter™ – joining the convenient direct-share options already popular with Facebook™ and YouTube™. Flip Video users can count on stunning video no matter how they choose to view or share it – on a computer, their HDTV or using the simple direct uploads to social media sites.

New UltraHD Family
The world’s best-selling shoot-and-share video family – the Flip Video UltraHD – now offers two new models with even more reasons to own one. For the first time, the UltraHD line offers personalization through the Flip Online Store (TheFlip.com) with thousands of designs for users to create a video camera showcasing their own personal style. Along with always-on image stabilization and newly enhanced 720p/60 fps video quality, the new Flip Video UltraHD 2 hour also features a new slimmer design that fits easily in a pocket or purse. The UltraHD 2 hour is the first Flip video camera to feature FlipPort™ – a proprietary Flip-designed connector enabling new add-ons options as part of the newly announced Designed for Flip™ accessory program.

The new Flip Video UltraHD 1 hour is the first-ever HD Flip Video camera priced at $149.99. An industry top-seller and consumer favorite, this Flip offers more for less: one hour of high-quality HD video; Flip simplicity, no-hassle built-in memory; plus a choice of magenta, blue, white or thousands of unique designs.

New Flip MinoHD Line
The new MinoHD 1 hour and 2 hour video cameras are sleek and stylish with enhanced HD video quality. Like the new UltraHD 2HR, the new MinoHD video cameras now feature the built-in image stabilization and 720p/60 fps combination allowing consumers to capture incredibly clear and steady video. Flip customers can opt for black, silver or from thousands of designs at the Flip Online Store (TheFlip.com). To express their own personal style, consumers can easily upload their own image to create a one-of-a-kind Flip MinoHD video camera.

Availability
The new Flip video cameras will be broadly distributed and are available starting today at the Flip Video Store (www.TheFlip.com), Best Buy and Amazon.com and coming soon to Wal-Mart, Target and Staples.

Press Release:

Flip Video Expands Consumer Options with “Designed for Flip” Accessory Program

Shoot & Share Category Leader Offers New Ways to Extend the Fun with New Flip Accessories from Aquapac, Blue Microphones, Bower, iGo, Ikelite, Seagate and Scosche
September 20, 2010 — San Francisco, CA
Cisco’s Flip Video®, the shoot and share video camera leader, today announced an all-new accessory program called Designed for Flip™ to expand the Flip Video experience for consumers. New Designed for Flip accessories announced today include a range of products including: wide angle lens, two different types of enhanced external microphones, waterproof cases, battery chargers and a pocket projector.

“People choose Flip because it makes capturing and sharing video simple, affordable, and most of all, fun,” said Simon Fleming-Wood, senior director of marketing for Cisco’s Consumer Products. “The new Designed for Flip program extends the fun with more choices from leading accessory companies so Flip users can do more and go more places with their Flips.”

New Designed for Flip and FlipPort™
The all-new Designed for Flip line will debut several products starting today and then continue to roll out more accessories through the fall and beyond. The Flip Video Designed for Flip team is working with leading companies in multiple product segments to provide a wide selection of general purpose and specialized products for both current and future Flip video cameras.

A key component of the Designed for Flip initiative is a new Flip Video feature called FlipPort™. The FlipPort is a uniquely developed connector found on the bottom of the new Flip UltraHD 8 GB/2 hour video camera — also announced today — that will become a standard feature on future generations of Flip video cameras. The FlipPort, will allow a range of specialized accessories to easily plug right in to Flip video cameras and open up a world of new uses and creativity for consumers.

New Designed for Flip products using FlipPort include Mikey for Flip, from Blue Microphones™, a professional quality external microphone that lets Flip users capture even better sound quality ranging from a whisper to a rock concert. Scosche™ will also be offering a wireless lavaliere microphone that will enable up close audio ideal for interviews. iGo™ is also offering three new products: the Overtime Battery extender which doubles the Flip Video battery life; the Charge Anywhere power adapter can charge two products at once such as a Flip video camera and another USB accessory; and finally a new Pocket Projector will allow Flip owners to instantly project and watch their Flip video clips directly from the video camera anywhere and on any flat surface up to the size of a 70” TV. In addition, Seagate has plans to support Flip video cameras with FlipPort in the coming months.

For all Flip video cameras, the Designed for Flip accessory line also features a wide assortment of products to let users do more with their Flip. New accessories now available include Flip Waterproof cases from Aquapac®, which allow consumers to use their Flip video camera for activities such as sailing, snorkeling and skiing, a line of underwater cases from Ikelite™, ideal for scuba diving and a new magnetic Wide Angle Lens, from Bower™, that makes it easy to capture wide-angle video footage.

Pricing and Availability
Select Designed for Flip accessory products are available* today in the United States at the Flip Video Store (TheFlip.com) and will be coming soon to Amazon.com and other retailers.

For information about how to become a Designed for Flip developer, please contact developer@theflip.com.

While the top display is a resistive panel, there’s also a capacitive touchstrip on the bottom section that can be used for whizzing through video timelines.  As well as an HDMI output and swing-out USB 2.0 plug, there’s also a 3.5mm headphone socket so that you can privately review your video on the move.

720p with a basic 2x digital zoom and neither optical or digital image stabilization doesn’t seem especially impressive for $279.99, and we can’t help but wonder whether Flip – or their parent Cisco – simply saw all the touchscreen furore of late and decided they simply had to include one in their new model.  It’s available to buy now.

Video demo after the cut

Apparently functionally the Slide HD is pretty much on a par with previous Flip camcorders, only it has a new 3.5mm headphone socket in case you want to preview your footage while on the move.  There’s 16GB of onboard memory, good for up to 4hrs of HD-quality video.

There’s no sign of an official press release from Cisco yet, but we’re guessing that if stock is already at – and leaving – retail stores then it’s likely to come sometime this week.  Still, you could always try to jump the queue and see if they’ll sell you one early.

The Business Insider reports that Cisco will launch a new set of Flip camcorders around the NAB show, which is slated to run from April 12-15.  Flip video cams have been wildly popular (and quite a good deal for the budding video aficionado).  What’s next, 1080P HD recording? (Hopefully).

The proprietary wireless is based on 802.11n, so it should be speedy enough for reasonably high resolution video content; certainly enough to cope with the sort of footage you could record with a Flip camcorder.  Flip Video reckon the FlipShare TV will be ideal for less tech-savvy users, though arguably a regular WiFi connection built into the set-top box and no requirement for installed software would make that an easier sell.

Walt Mossberg has reviewed it, and reckons it works – up to a point.  Considering Flip are billing it as a straightforward way to share content not only in your own home but with family and friends remotely, the absence of simple things like a “new video waiting” indicator are disappointing; Flip say they’ll be adding that to an updated model next year.

At $149.99 it undercuts the SlingCatcher by fifty bucks, and of course the Sling device lacks onboard wireless.  We’re not entirely convinced, but if you’re addicted to your Flip camcorder and you want to keep things in the family when it comes to streaming, the FlipShare TV might scratch an itch.

Press Release:

FLIPSHARE TV NOW PLAYING IN A FAMILY ROOM OR ON A BIG SCREEN TV NEAR YOU

Latest Innovation from Flip Video Creates an Easy Way to Watch and Share Flip Videos on TVs Everywhere

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif., December 2, 2009 – The makers of the acclaimed Flip Video™ family of camcorders, recently acquired by Cisco®, today announced a brand new innovation in home video sharing called FlipShare™ TV. An industry first, FlipShare TV brings the user’s entire Flip Video library of photos and videos into the family room and onto the TV screen without wires, and lets them share video instantly with other FlipShare TV owners. FlipShare TV extends the Flip Video product family by making it even easier for Flip users to enjoy and share video with friends and family anywhere.

“We’re bringing back the home movie night,” said Jonathan Kaplan, senior vice president and general manager, Cisco consumer products group. “There’s now a simple and affordable solution to view and share photos and videos on any TV.”

Like all Flip Video products, setting up and using FlipShare TV is simple. The small FlipShare TV base connects to the TV via the included composite cables or an HDMI cable, and the FlipShare TV USB key plugs into a USB port on a PC or Mac. The USB key and console are preconfigured to function wirelessly* so the Flip videos stored on the computer can be instantly viewed on the TV with no need for a wireless home network. Using the included wireless remote, the user can easily click through the intuitive TV interface to watch their favorite videos, custom movies, or photos and watch them in full HD.

FlipShare TV is designed to work with FlipShare 5.0, the new software from Flip Video that provides an easy way to organize, edit, and share favorite video moments online and through mobile phones. The new FlipShare TV takes sharing one step further by providing a simple way for users to display videos in full glory on their television, or share them with others on their TVs. With FlipShare TV, a user can also watch video shared by other Flip Video users on their own TV. FlipShare TV automatically accesses video shared through Flip Channels™, presenting them for users to watch directly through the simple FlipShare TV interface.

The Perfect Gift for Far-Away Family and Friends
FlipShare TV is a great new way to share videos with loved ones anywhere. A Flip user can simply set up Flip Channels within FlipShare and choose the friends and family they want to be able to watch. Whenever they add new content to a Flip Channel, everyone included in that channel can view it instantly. So now, grandparents can simply turn on the TV and watch the latest Flip video of their grandchildren, or siblings living far away can share video to each other’s TVs with ease.

FlipShare TV Features:
Watch FlipShare video and photo library instantly on the TV
View any shared Flip Channel videos on the TV
Share Video with anyone else who has a FlipShare TV
FlipShare TV Includes: TV Base, USB Key, and Remote
TV Base Console: 4.6 x 4.6 x 1.3 inches / 4.6 oz
Remote Control: 3.9 x 1.6 x .04 inches/ 1.3 oz
USB Key: 3.5 x 1.0 x 0.5 inches / 0.6 oz
Wireless: 802.11n point-to-point proprietary interface (does not require a home wireless network)
Batteries: 2 x AAA for remote (included)
Composite cable included

Pricing and Availability
MSRP: $149.99
Availability: Amazon, BestBuy.com, Target.com, Wal-Mart.com, and the official Flip Store at theflip.com

The ORNL updated its Jaguar supercomputer with new 6-core Opteron processors recently. The newly updated rig grabbed the top spot on the list of fastest supercomputers in the world. The Samsung Go netbook is coming to the AT&T Wireless network as a subsidized offering. The machine will hit November 22 for $199.99 after rebates and a new agreement.

The Sony Ericsson Xperia X10 smartphone was spied on video this week. The snapdragon speed that the prototype spied previously lacked was in effect this time around. A paper claims that the Dell Streak MID will be hitting the AT&T network in 2010. I’m not sure that a MID will really make the grade; most of us want smartphones today.

A job listing over at Apple is looking for a game engineer. This has rumors swirling that Apple is set to develop first party games for its rumored tablet and the iPhone/iPod touch. We heard this week that the fix for the camera autofocus woes of the Droid may be as easy as wiping the lens well. Other reports claim that an unannounced software patch was pushed out to fix the issue.

The Windows Marketplace for Mobile hit WinMo 6.0 and 6.1 smartphones early in the week. The store had previously only been offered to those running WinMo 6.5 devices. The Malata R108T Windows 7 convertible touchscreen netbook broke cover Tuesday looking familiar. The rig has a 10.1-inch screen and Intel Atom processor, standard netbook fare.

MSI debuted the Wind Top AE2220 AIO 1080p computer mid-week with multitouch and a 21.5-inch display. The machine can be had with Intel Core 2 Duo power and Ion graphics. ATI unveiled the Radeon HD 5970 dual GPU video card this week. The thing is very powerful and has a price tag to match.

A report came in Wednesday that had Nokia using mostly Maemo rather than Symbian on its N-series devices by 2012. Nokia later came out and said that the announcement was premature. The sexy Dell Adamo XPS went on sale this week at $1799. It’s expensive; by man do I want one.

Vizio again grabbed the top spot on the LCD shipper list in the US for the quarter. People are flocking to the firms lower priced LCD TVs rather than the more expensive big names like Sony and Samsung. Sony Ericsson has confirmed that the Xperia X1 will not be getting a WinMo 6.5 update. A ROM hinted previously that such an update might be coming.

A new version of the ever popular Flip camcorder is coming in the first half of 2010 that has a sliding screen and WiFi. The WiFi will presumably allow you to send your movies directly to your computer without connecting a USB cable. The Sony Reader Daily Edition is available for preorder now for $400. The device has wireless access to the Sony eBook store.

Olive debuted a new 4HD Hi-Fi music server this week. The thing offers audiophile grade sound quality at a steep price of almost $2000. This is a strange report, the Apple tablet is said to be delayed until the second half of 2010 to get OLED and LCD versions. The odd part is how can a device be delayed when it was never officially announced?

Thursday we detailed the Chrome OS on video. The OS has been anticipated for a while and could replace Android in devices like netbooks. The Archos 9 PC tablet has been delayed with preorders shipping in December and the full retail launch pushed until 2010. You should be able to pick the thing up at retail locations once it launches.

Imation unveiled the world’s first wireless USB external storage solution Friday called the Pro WX. The HDD has a 30-foot range and enough speed for data backups sans cable. The Motorola Motus was spotted in a particularly blurry pic this week and promises an unusual form factor. The device appears to fold back.

The Pantech Impact is now avaialbl on the AT&T network for $99.99 after rebates. The device has haptics feedback for the touch panel front keypad. That’s it for this week, have a great Thanksgiving!

That large screen won’t be touch-enabled, however, likely a cost saving decision, and the WiFi will apparently be able to access not only private but public wireless networks.  It’s unclear whether that includes paid WiFi hotspots, which often require some sort of browser-based login system.  The as-yet unnamed Flip WiFi camcorder will go on sale in the first half of 2010, price as yet unknown.

The FlipShareTV STB has both composite audio/video connections and an HDMI port, and both it and the USB transmitter for the PC seemingly use WiFi a/b/g/n rather than any proprietary wireless technology.  As for the remote control, that’s the same device we saw back in early October, using RF rather than infrared.

Of course, what the FCC can’t tell us is when the FlipShareTV will arrive on shelves, or what Cisco might demand in terms of pricing.  Given the basic functionality we’re hoping it’ll be a minimal amount, otherwise we can’t really see people plumping for the standalone system.

[via Zatz Not Funny]

The camcorder is evidently already available at some online retailers in the brushed metal finish. You can design your own camcorder online by adding your own pics or choosing your own pattern. The new version has 8GB of internal flash storage and records in 1280 x 720 resolution.

The rear LCD is a 2-inch unit and the camcorder has an omni-directional mic built-in. Power comes from a lithium-ion battery good for up to two hours per charge. An HDMI out is built-in for sending video directly to a big screen. The downside to the MinoHD is that it lacks optical zoom and only has 2x digital zoom. The camcorder sells for $229.

What’s cool about this tripod is that it can be used on just about any surface because of its ball joint legs. They can even bend so as to attach your device to a bike, a light pole or what have you.

Included with the Gorillamobile tripod is a suction-cup mount and adhesive clips. You can get the tripod by the end of the summer for $29.95.

In fact, those two locations will see their entry-level package jump to 25/15 Mbps, with the mid-tier package landing at 35/20 Mbps.   That sort of uplink speed is enough to upload a one-hour high-definition movie in around 20 minutes; according to recent research from In-Stat, Verizon says with no small amount of gloating, the average cable internet user sees upload rates of 2.68Mbps.

If sheer speed isn’t enough to lure you in, Verizon  are also offering gadget incentives to new subscribers.  Anybody subscribing to a triple package of 25/15 Mbps internet (or higher), Extreme HD TV and Essentials voice will get their choice of a Compaq Mini netbook or a Flip Ultra camcorder.  Anybody choosing the slower 15/5 Mbps (or higher) connection with TV Essentials and Essentials voice service will get a free Flip Ultra.  Those unable to get FiOS will have similar offers for Verizon’s DSL service.

Press Release:

Verizon Amps Up FiOS Internet With Increased Two-Way Speeds and Launches Free Netbook/Camcorder Promotion

Verizon Fast is ‘Two-Way’ Fast With Upstream Speeds That Optimize Today’s Interactive, Multimedia Internet Experiences

NEW YORK – Verizon FiOS continues creating the ultimate broadband and home-entertainment experience by introducing on Monday (June 22) new, faster broadband speeds – both downstream and upstream – for the most popular FiOS Internet services. The company is also offering compelling incentives for consumers to subscribe to FiOS. New customers who order qualifying FiOS bundles are eligible for a free Compaq Mini netbook* or a Flip Ultra™ camcorder.
“From its inception just five years ago, Verizon FiOS has transformed the American broadband and home-entertainment experience by delivering innovative services that our competitors can’t match,” said Mike Ritter, chief marketing officer for Verizon Telecom. “Today FiOS leaps forward again with faster two-way broadband speed options that free customers to fully participate in today’s interactive, multimedia Web.”
Verizon is doubling to quadrupling the upstream connection speeds and increasing the downstream connection speeds of its most popular FiOS Internet offerings. The company has raised the connection speed of its entry-level FiOS Internet service from 10/2 megabits per second (Mbps) to 15/5 Mbps, and has raised the connection speed of its flagship, mid-tier offering from 20/5 Mbps to 25/15 Mbps. In New York City, on Long Island and in other New York City suburbs, FiOS Internet is even faster with a new entry-level connection speed of 25/15 Mbps, and a new mid-tier offering of 35/20 Mbps, available only in bundles.
According to a survey of residential broadband users in the U.S. by the market intelligence firm In-Stat (“US Broadband Speeds on the Rise,” In-Stat, Feb. 2009), the average upstream connection speed used by cable broadband customers is 2.68 Mbps. Verizon is offering speeds two-to-seven times faster than this typical cable upload speed.
“From grade-schoolers to grandparents, no one wants to wait for long uploads any more than they want to wait for long downloads,” said Ritter. “Verizon has good news for people who want to enjoy interactive applications like video chat, quickly back up their hard drives, upload photos and videos to e-mail and social networking sites, or send large files to co-workers or clients: The ultra-fast downstream and upstream speed you need every day is here. It’s widely available, affordably priced, and there are no artificial limits placed on how much you can use.”
Using a 20 Mbps upstream broadband connection, a consumer could upload 200 photos in about 90 seconds, a 20-minute high-def video in less than 7 minutes and a one-hour HD movie in about 20 minutes. (Listen to photographer and educator Kathy Halamka on why fast FiOS connections are important to her.)
New Promotion Provides Powerful Incentives
To encourage even more customer defections from cable to FiOS TV and Internet services, Verizon has also launched a compelling new promotional offer that runs through Aug. 15.
New customers who sign up for a triple bundle that consists of FiOS Internet with a connection speed of 25/15 Mbps or higher, FiOS TV Extreme HD service and FiOS Essentials voice service will receive their choice of a free Compaq Mini netbook* valued at $299.99 (customer only pays shipping, handling and taxes) or a free Flip Ultra camcorder, valued at $149.99.
New customers who order a triple bundle that consists of FiOS Internet with a connection speed of 15/5 Mbps or higher, FiOS TV Essentials service and Freedom Essentials voice service will receive a free Flip Ultra camcorder, or they can opt to purchase a Compaq Mini netbook* for just $99.99.
Verizon also announced on Monday the continuation of its price guarantee for stand-alone, DSL-based High Speed Internet — and a similar camcorder and netbook incentive offer for customers. See companion news release for more details.
“A free netbook or camcorder is the perfect companion to the amped-up speed of FiOS Internet,” said Ritter. “With faster downstream and unparalleled upstream connections, plus the latest in cool electronics, FiOS Internet customers can explore the unlimited possibilities of a fully interactive online experience.”
FiOS Internet also provides a gateway to other valuable Verizon services, including a suite of Internet security measures, premium technical support and backup and sharing.
Bundle pricing varies by market and starts at $99.99 for triple bundles and $79.99 for double bundles. Both double and triple bundles require a one-year service agreement; however, customers will receive a two-year price guarantee.
New and existing FiOS customers can opt to subscribe to the new services by calling Verizon at 888-GET-FiOS. For more information about FiOS, visit www.verizon.com/seefios.
Features of the Compaq Mini netbook include:
10.1-inch diagonal widescreen display.
Lightweight, one-inch-thick design that conveniently fits in backpack, briefcase or purse.
Intel Atom™ processor.
Windows XP Home operating system.
Features of the Flip Ultra™ camcorder include:
Pocket-size design with one-touch recording and digital zoom.
Up to 120 minutes of high-quality video.
4GB of built-in memory.
Two-inch anti-glare screen.
Built-in USB arm for direct connection to PC or Mac.
Pre-loaded FlipShareTM software that allows easy video organizing, editing and emailing, along with simple upload to social media sites such as YouTubeTM and MySpaceTM.

Connection speed refers to the speed between a user’s location and Verizon’s central office. Actual surfing speeds will vary based on many factors and be lower than connection speed.
Promotion Terms and Conditions:
*Compaq Mini netbook available with $299.99 coupon (or $200 coupon for $99.99 discounted-price offer) redeemable online at HP Home & Home Office while supplies last. Valid credit card required. Customer pays taxes, shipping and handling. Must sign up by Aug. 15 and install by Oct. 15, 2009. Must have service for 60 days and no past due balance. Coupon sent within 90 days of install date and requires redemption within 60 days of receipt. For residential customers new to FiOS TV and Internet.
Flip Ultra ™ Camcorder available while supplies last. Must have service for 60 days with no past due balance to qualify. Gift will be sent within 90 days of install date. Other terms and conditions apply.
Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE:VZ), headquartered in New York, is a global leader in delivering broadband and other wireless and wireline communications services to mass market, business, government and wholesale customers. Verizon Wireless operates America’s most reliable wireless network, serving more than 86 million customers nationwide. Verizon’s Wireline operations provide converged communications, information and entertainment services over the nation’s most advanced fiber-optic network. Wireline also includes Verizon Business, which delivers innovative and seamless business solutions to customers around the world. A Dow 30 company, Verizon employs a diverse workforce of more than 237,000 and last year generated consolidated operating revenues of more than $97 billion. For more information, visit www.verizon.com.

Press Release:

Verizon High Speed Internet Experience Better Than Ever With Broadband Deals That Offer Cool Electronic Devices

Compaq Mini Netbook or Flip Ultra Camcorder Free to Qualifying Customers Who Choose Voice and High Speed Internet Bundles; Price Guarantee Extended for Non-Bundled High Speed Internet Service

NEW YORK – Consumers looking for the utmost reliability and value in broadband bundles can now choose Verizon’s latest super-fast connections of up-to-3 Mbps (megabits per second) or up-to-7.1 Mbps High Speed Internet bundle offers and get gear to take full advantage of the service.
Under a new offer from Verizon, qualifying new voice and broadband customers get either a Compaq Mini netbook* (valued at $299) or a Flip UltraTM camcorder (valued at $149.99) — two of the most popular electronic devices on the market today.
“Consumers get our highly reliable High Speed Internet service, which is perfect for surfing the Web, e-mailing, and sending and receiving large amounts of data,” said Susan Retta, Verizon vice president of consumer product management. “With Internet service, they also get a winning combination of all-digital-quality DIRECTV® service, and unlimited local and long-distance phone service delivered on our 99.9 percent reliable network. To make it irresistible, we’re offering hot electronics that customers can use to get the most out of their new High Speed Internet service.”
To encourage even more consumers to leave their cable provider and select Verizon, the company announced Monday (June 22) the launch of a compelling new promotional offer: New customers who select voice and High Speed Internet service and sign up for a one-year, double- or triple-play bundle that includes either the up-to-3 Mbps/768 kilobits per second (Kbps) or up-to-7.1 Mbps/768 Kbps** service will receive their choice of a free Compaq Mini netbook or Flip Ultra camcorder.
Existing Verizon voice customers who add either the up-to-3 or up-to-7.1 Mbps High Speed Internet service will receive their choice of a Compaq Mini netbook for $99.99 or a free Flip Ultra camcorder. These promotional offers continue through Aug. 15.
Verizon also announced on Monday higher FiOS Internet speeds and a similar camcorder and netbook incentive offer for new FiOS customers. See companion release.
“In addition, this new offer provides additional incentives for consumers, particularly cable company customers, to sign up with Verizon,” Retta said. ”The offer enables consumers to use their Compaq Mini netbook or Flip Ultra camcorder on the road, around town or anywhere on campus.”
Triple-play bundles that qualify for Verizon’s new promotion start at $99.99 per month for one year, while qualifying double-play bundles start at $69.99 per month. Features of the Compaq Mini netbook include:
10.1-inch diagonal widescreen display.
One-inch-thick, 2.35-pound design that fits in a backpack, briefcase or purse.
Intel Atom™ processor.
Windows XP Home operating system.
Features of the Flip Ultra camcorder include:
Pocket-size design with one-touch recording and digital zoom.
Up to 120 minutes of high-quality video.
4GB of built-in memory.
Two-inch anti-glare screen.
Built-in USB arm for direct connection to PC or Mac.
Pre-loaded FlipShareTM software that allows easy video organizing, editing and e-mailing, along with simple upload to social media sites such as YouTubeTM and MySpaceTM.

Additionally, Verizon will continue to offer its price guarantee for non-bundled High Speed Internet service (up to 1, 3 or 7.1 Mbps speeds), ranging from $17.99 per month to $39.99 per month with a two-year agreement. Pricing will remain the same for customers as long as they continue on the same High Speed Internet service plan and retain local voice service.
Verizon High Speed Internet, which uses digital subscriber line technology, is the company’s most widely available form of broadband data service. More than 25 million households in parts of 24 states and the District of Columbia can order the service. Verizon High Speed Internet subscribers are not subject to bandwidth caps that some Internet service providers assess, so there’s no penalty for heavy usage.
According to PC Magazine’s 2008 readers’ survey, Verizon High Speed Internet beat the average cable provider’s score in reliability, the likelihood of a customer choosing an Internet service provider, as well as the associated costs and fees for the service.
Verizon High Speed Internet customers also receive access to an extensive portfolio of value-added services, including 250 MB (megabytes) of free Verizon Online Backup and Sharing, which provides useful disaster-recovery support.
The company’s popular Verizon Internet Security Suite provides comprehensive online protection from spyware and viruses for as little as $5.99 a month and includes a firewall, parental control, a pop-up-blocker and privacy manager software to help keep customers safe from hackers and phishing attacks.
Customers can also obtain a combination offer of Verizon Online Backup and Sharing and Verizon Internet Security Suite for $8.99 per month.
In addition, customers can protect their home-entertainment and communications investments by subscribing to a comprehensive suite of device protection plans such as Protection Pak Enhanced, which, in cases of a malfunction, covers the repair or replacement of all eligible computers, telephones and TVs in a customer’s home, regardless of the device’s place of purchase or age. Coverage is less than $1 a day.
Consumers can obtain more information about Verizon’s High Speed Internet service by visiting www.verizon.net/highspeed or by calling 1-800-483-4000.
VERIZON PROMOTION TERMS AND CONDITIONS
NEW VOICE + NEW HIGH SPEED INTERNET CUSTOMERS
Customers establishing new Verizon service who select a double- or triple-play bundle featuring either the up to 3 or 7.1 Mbps High Speed Internet service and Verizon Freedom Essentials qualify for a free Compaq Mini netbook (customer pays taxes, shipping and handling charges of approximately $50) or a free Flip Ultra camcorder (customer does not pay taxes, shipping and handling charges).
*Compaq Mini netbook available with $299.99 coupon redeemable online at HP Home & Home Office while supplies last. Valid credit card required. Customer pays taxes, shipping and handling. Must sign up by Aug. 15 and activate service by Sept. 30, 2009. Must have service for 60 days and no past due balance. Coupon sent within 90 days of activation date and requires redemption within 60 days of receipt. For residential customers new to Verizon voice and High Speed Internet service.

Flip Ultra ™ camcorder available while supplies last. Must sign up by Aug. 15 and activate service by Sept. 30, 2009. Must have service for 60 days with no past due balance to qualify. Gift will be sent within 90 days of activation date. Other terms and conditions apply.
One-year agreement required for bundles; a $120 early termination fee applies if the High Speed Internet or voice component of the bundle is cancelled or downgraded before expiration of term.
EXISTING VOICE CUSTOMERS
Existing voice customers ordering new up to 3 or 7.1 Mbps High Speed Internet in a double or triple play bundle qualify for a $99.99 Compaq Mini netbook (plus tax, shipping and handling charges of approximately $50) or a free Flip Ultra camcorder (tax, shipping and handling included).
* $99.99 Compaq Mini netbook available with $200 coupon redeemable online at HP Home & Home Office while supplies last. Valid credit card required. Customer pays taxes, shipping and handling. Must sign up by Aug. 15 and activate service by Sept. 30, 2009. Must have service for 60 days and no past due balance. Coupon sent within 90 days of activation date and requires redemption within 60 days of receipt.

Terms and conditions for the Flip Ultra ™ camcorder apply as presented for new voice plus new High Speed Internet customers.
One-year agreement required for bundles; a $120 early termination fee applies if the High Speed Internet or voice component of the bundle is cancelled or downgraded before expiration of term.
** Internet speeds refer to the connection speed between the user’s location and Verizon’s central office. Actual surfing speeds will vary based on many factors and be lower than connection speed.
Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE:VZ), headquartered in New York, is a global leader in delivering broadband and other wireless and wireline communications services to mass market, business, government and wholesale customers. Verizon Wireless operates America’s most reliable wireless network, serving more than 86 million customers nationwide. Verizon’s Wireline operations provide converged communications, information and entertainment services over the nation’s most advanced fiber-optic network. Wireline also includes Verizon Business, which delivers innovative and seamless business solutions to customers around the world. A Dow 30 company, Verizon employs a diverse workforce of more than 237,000 and last year generated consolidated operating revenues of more than $97 billion. For more information, visit www.verizon.com.

If you’re just such an iPhone 3G owner, then make sure to head over to our Mophie Juice Pack giveaway and get your entry in; it won’t change AT&T’s mind, but it will give you a whole lot more battery life to complain to your friends about it.  Be quick, though, as entries must be in by midday central time on Monday!

Our photography expert Daniel Lim grabbed some hands-on time with SanDisk’s ImageMate USB 2.0 card reader, and declared it an essential peripheral for dedicated shutterbugs.  Meanwhile, latest team member Steven Grady celebrated his new job (and graduation) by unboxing the FyreTV VoD system, in a video which manages to be safe for work.  Expect a whole lot of metaphors when he reviews it this week.  Finally, over at Android Community we reviewed the Vodafone HTC Magic, arguably the best Android device on the market today.

Elsewhere in mobile phones, Verizon’s Samsung Alias 2 hit the market (complete with trick E Ink keyboard); we’re still too excited about the Palm Pre, though.  Both an unboxing photoset (minus the Pre) and unboxing video (minus the Sprint branding) turned up during the week, leading us to wonder whether the much-anticipated handset would be launched in a Walt Mossberg WSJ exclusive.

In netbooks, manufacturers showed that while they might not be aiming high with specifications, the aesthetic battle is ratcheting up a notch.  ASUS have been riding high with their Eee PC 1008HA Seashell, which will arrive in the US on May 18th priced at $429, but they’re leaving nothing to chance and following it up with the similarly-styled Eee PC 1005HA-M and 1005HA-H.  They’ll have some competition from Albatron, though; you may not be familiar with the brand, but you’ll drool uncontrollably over their super-slimline entrance to the netbook market.

We also stopped by Mio for the launch of their new Navman Spirit PNDs, including a pretty impressive 7-inch touchscreen unit with integrated digital TV.  Conspicuous by its absence, though, was any sort of internet browser; for that, you’ll have to turn to the SmartQ 7 MID, which we saw specs, live photos and even an unboxing of.

In gaming, the strongest theme this week was musical controllers, and guitars in particular.  Logitech and Hofner both whipped out their own guitar-shaped controllers, but personally I’m more excited by this IR hack which turns a controller into a true “air guitar”.

Finally, the “bad news of the week” award goes to Intel, who were found guilty of harming “millions of customers” in their EC antitrust trial and fined $1.45bn.  If it makes them feel any better, that’s a new record for damages.  Well done, record breakers!

The changes on offer are pretty straightforward: there’s now 720p high-definition recording at 30fps, an HDMI output and 8GB of internal storage that amounts to 2hrs-worth of footage.  The Ultra series remains bigger in all dimensions than the Flip Video Mino and Mino HD, but goes some way toward making up for it with a user-accessible battery compartment and larger display.

Controls, though, remain as simple and straightforward as ever, and there’s the usual pop-out USB port and editing software stored on the Ultra HD itself.  Framing the shot using the 2-inch transflective display is easy, as is interpreting the on-screen graphics, and the battery compartment takes either two standard AAs or the included rechargeable pack.  Recharging that pack can be done via the USB connection, rather than needing to remove it.

Video quality is on a par with the Mino HD, which is to say surprisingly good for something of this size at at this price point.  Sadly there’s still no microphone input, so you’re stuck with the onboard microphone which is prone to picking up wind noise when outside.

As with other Flip cameras, the Ultra HD could really do with some image stabilization technology.  Attempt moving footage and the results are very shaky; even when filming while standing still, you’ll soon be wishing you had a tripod to hand.  Thankfully there’s a standard tripod screw underneath, but it would be helpful if the Ultra HD’s chunky body had a flip out leg or two to make standing it on a desk a little more stable.

In fact the only positive thing we can say about the absence of stabilization is that it makes the mere 2x digital zoom excusable.  As with any digital zoom, you lose pixels in the quest for close-ups, and shaky footage is emphasized. 

Of course, an optical zoom – and, to a lesser extent, image stabilization – would add cost, and that’s where the Ultra HD really shines.  With a list price of $199 it undercuts the Mino HD by $30, despite offering you the larger screen and double the recording time.  The downside is the larger body, which isn’t as pocketable, but we’ve a feeling most users will opt for the cheaper camcorder.  Assuming they spend that left-over $30 on a travel tripod, they’ve got themselves one of the easiest ways to grab decent amateur footage on the go.

Each camcorder can run off two standard AA batteries or Flip’s own rechargeable battery pack; the latter is supplied with the UltraHD, and an optional extra for the Ultra.  Resolution is 640 x 480 for the basic model, 1280 x 720 for the HD, and each has a 2-inch transflective, anti-glare display and basic controls.

As you might expect, the UltraHD swaps the Ultra’s composite connection for an HDMI port.  The Flip Video Ultra is available in black, white, yellow and pink, with an MRSP of $149.  Meanwhile the Flip Video UltraHD is available in black or white (with chrome trim) with an MRSP of $199.99.

Press Release:

Flip Video™ Introduces All-New Flip Ultra™ and Flip UltraHD™

Best-Selling Camcorder Line Now Offers a New HD Model, Double the Memory and a Larger Screen

Pure Digital Technologies, Inc. – the maker of the acclaimed Flip Video family of camcorders – today announced the second generation of its Flip Ultra line, America’s number-one selling camcorder since its debut in 2007. Now available in both high-definition and standard-resolution models, the new line offers everyday consumers the easiest and most affordable way to capture and share high-quality video. The new Flip Ultra and Flip UltraHD feature two hours of recording time, a large high-resolution two-inch screen, and convenient battery recharging through the built-in USB arm.

“The original Flip Ultra changed the way the world captures and shares video by making it easy, accessible, and, most of all, fun,” said Jonathan Kaplan, chairperson and CEO of Pure Digital. “Our new Flip UltraHD takes this to the next level by making it incredibly simple and affordable for anyone to capture and share hours of video in stunning HD.”

The new Flip Ultra and UltraHD camcorders set a new standard for convenient and affordable video capture. Both new models offer a full two hours of recording capacity, a bright two-inch transflective screen for no-glare viewing even in direct sunlight, and an innovative AA rechargeable battery pack that can be conveniently recharged through the camera’s built-in USB arm. The Flip Ultra is priced at just $149.99, while the Flip UltraHD sells for $199.99.

Like all Flip Video camcorders, the new Ultra line is pre-loaded with FlipShare™, the on-board software that leads consumers seamlessly through the process of organizing, editing and sharing videos. Consumers simply plug the built-in USB arm directly into any Mac or PC to begin sharing their videos immediately.

The second generation Flip Ultra camcorder promises to build on the success of the Flip Video family, which has sold more than 2 million camcorders since first introduced less than two years ago. The Flip Ultra continues its reign as the number-one selling camcorder in the U.S., while the Flip MinoHD, launched last November, is currently the top-selling HD camcorder in the country, both according to first quarter 2009 rankings from leading market research firm The NPD Group.

Flip UltraHD Camcorder Features:

SRP: $199.99
Colors: Black, White (with chrome trim)
Video Resolution: High Definition, 1280 x 720
Records: 2 hours (8 GB built-in memory)
Screen: 2 inch – transflective (anti-glare)
Batteries: 2 x AA (rechargeable AA battery pack included)
TV Output: Widescreen with HDMI™ output
Zoom: 2 x Digital
Flip Ultra Camcorder Features:

SRP: $149
Colors: Black, White, Yellow and Pink
Video Resolution: 640 x 480
Records: 2 hours (4GB built-in memory)
Screen: 2 inch – transflective (anti-glare)
Batteries: 2 x AA (optional rechargeable AA battery pack sold separately)
TV Output: SD Composite Video
Zoom: 2 x Digital

There’s also a new removable, rechargeable battery that can be swapped out for a couple of AA batteries while on the go.  Flip Video’s usual spring-loaded USB plug is present, and the Ultra HD has the same straightforward controls as its predecessor.

We’ll have to wait for Flip Video themselves to catch up with their premature retailers before the full spec-list is known, but the Ultra HD is looking pretty slick.  If you can find it in your nearest Best Buy, expect to pay $199.99.

[via Engadget]

According to Cisco, though, the deal makes perfect sense, giving them an easy-in to the “media-enabled home”.  More than two million Flip Video camcorders have been sold, a figure Pure Digital put down to the simplicity of the device and the easy to use FlipShare software that accompanies it.

The Pure Digital team will, once the acquisition is complete, join the Linksys team in Cisco’s Consumer Business Group.  Pure Digital CEO Jonathan Kaplan will then report directly to Ned Hooper, SVP of the Cisco group.  The deal is expected to close in Q4 2009, and as well as the $590m in stock options will include $15m in “retention-based equity incentives” for Pure Digital employees staying on under their new Cisco overlords.

Press Release:

Cisco Announces Intent to Acquire Pure Digital Technologies, Makers of Flip VideoTM

Networking Leader Adds Popular Flip Video Solutions to Consumer Portfolio
Photos

SAN JOSE, Calif. – March. 19, 2009 – Cisco today announced its intent to acquire privately held Pure Digital Technologies Inc. San Francisco-based Pure Digital, creator of the best-selling Flip VideoTM brand, is a pioneer in developing consumer-friendly video solutions with mass-market appeal.

“The acquisition of Pure Digital is key to Cisco’s strategy to expand our momentum in the media-enabled home and to capture the consumer market transition to visual networking,” said Ned Hooper, senior vice president of Cisco’s Corporate Development and Consumer Groups. “Pure Digital has revolutionized the way people capture and share video with Flip Video. This acquisition will take Cisco’s consumer business to the next level as the company develops new video capabilities and drives the next generation of entertainment and communication experiences.”

Pure Digital’s Flip Video has sold more than 2 million units and quickly demonstrated market appeal in the United States by making video simple, accessible and fun. All Flip Video products come equipped with FlipShare, a best-in-class software that allows users to easily organize and edit videos and then share them instantly on YouTube, MySpace and other popular sharing Web sites.

“Flip Video puts the power to instantly capture, edit and share video into the hands of everyday consumers,” said Jonathan Kaplan, chairman and CEO of Pure Digital. “By combining forces with Cisco, we join a company that shares our passion for video and whose global scale and tremendous technology expertise we expect will enable us to quickly expand and enrich the Flip Video experience.”

Upon the close of the acquisition, the Pure Digital team will become part of Cisco’s Consumer Business Group, which includes Linksys® by Cisco® home networking, audio and media-storage products. Kaplan will become general manager of the combined organization, reporting to Hooper.

The Pure Digital acquisition exemplifies Cisco’s “build, buy and partner” innovation strategy to move quickly into new markets and capture key market transitions. Under the terms of the agreement, Cisco will pay approximately $590 million in stock in exchange for all shares of Pure Digital. In addition, Cisco will provide up to $15 million in retention-based equity incentives for continuing employees. The acquisition is subject to various standard closing conditions and is expected to close in the fourth quarter of Cisco’s fiscal year 2009. The acquisition will be accounted for in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.

Other interesting looking announcements include the Samsung Eternity on AT&T, LG Prada II, and the iRiver wave which, for the moment at least, is stuck in Korea.  Still, they’re trailing in the wake of Apple’s iPhone 3G, which finally edged ahead of the Motorola RAZR to become the best selling mobile handset.  Just the right time for rumors to begin that Costco are planning to sell the Apple device for $149.  Whether or not that pans out, if you plan on using your iPhone 3G as Apple intended it then you’ll be wanting to take a look at our Mophie Juice Pack review for the power-guzzling smartphone.

Slightly larger, but using that space to its best advantage – by packing in the connectivity – comes UMID’s Mobile Internet Device.  Blessed with WiBro, WiMAX, HSDPA, WiFi, Bluetooth and a 4.8-inch touchscreen, it leaves us in the bizarre situation of not only hoping it will make it to our shores, but that we’ll have the wireless networks to sate it.

All too often we see slick gadgets in Korea that we’ll never get a chance to play with ourselves; it was nice, then, to be able to exclusively confirm that Nanovision’s MIMO 7-inch USB LCD monitors are coming to the US, UK, Italy and Japan.  We’ve got review samples winging their way to us right now, so expect full coverage this coming week.

For once, netbooks took a backseat over the past seven days, with the only major news being Dell’s Inspiron Mini 12 getting a confirmed price – from $549 – and release timetable.  You’ll be able to pick up the 12.1-inch budget ultraportable from the second week in December.  In gaming, meanwhile, we found out about Sports Active, EA’s upcoming challenge to the Wii Fit.

You’d think we were entirely unable to read a map here at SlashGear this week, with three separate PND devices in for review.  The Navigon 7200T, Mio’s Knight Rider GPS and Telenav’s Shotgun PND all took their turn ordering us about; thankfully we had the Flip MinoHD to document the ordeal.

Winner of the week has to be Bang & Olufsen, who have already whipped commenters into a frenzy by announcing the terribly expensive BeoSound 5 Digital Music System.  Par for the course for the Danish company, really.  Meanwhile loser of the week is Circuit City, who have voluntarily filed for bankruptcy.  The credit crunch claims another victim, but we suppose that means plenty of stock-clearance bargains this holiday season.

First impressions depend on where you got your MinoHD.  Those sold through regular retail channels are finished in gloss black; alternatively, those bought from Flip’s online store can be personalized with custom casings (at no extra cost).  Buyers can pick from a vast number of designer casings, or upload their own image and have it specially made.

Either way, the MinoHD weighs a lightweight 3.3oz and measures 4 x 2 x 0.6-inches.  I’m a total video addict, and I always like to have a camcorder with me; the MinoHD is compact enough to fit in a pocket, sturdy enough not to have to worry about it snapping, and the quality – which I’ll say more about later – is surprisingly good for the price.  Controls are minimal: touch-sensitive play/pause, zoom (2x digital), record, erase and left/right.  While zero-profile buttons make for a slicker casing (albeit one that’s a total dust magnet) I also miss hardware controls that can be found by touch.

Previewing and reviewing is done via the 1.5-inch color screen, one of the less impressive things carried over from the Mino.  I really wish this new Flip had a screen that did 720p video justice; as it is, you’ll want to wait until you can watch it on a bigger screen before showing friends and family.

The memory may be doubled – 4GB compared to the regular Mino’s 2GB – but the recording time isn’t.  720p footage takes up twice the space of SD, so you still get room for an hour of video.  Battery life from the non-user-replaceable rechargeable Li-Ion pack is rated at two hours mixed use (standby, filming and reviewing) or 90 minutes constant recording; it’s too early for me to say how accurate those figures are, but given that the MinoHD recharges when you plug it into a USB port it’ll always be getting regular top-ups when you transfer footage off.

Software has always been a strong point of Flip cameras, and the MinoHD is no exception.  Preloaded on the camcorder itself is FlipShare, a Windows and Mac compatible editing and uploading suite, and it was incredibly useful to be able to switch between the PC and Mac laptops I have with me.  Editing it done in a straightforward drag and drop fashion, and then the app will help you burn them to a disc or, after being compressed, upload them to a video sharing site such as YouTube.

Obviously you’re not stuck with FlipShare if you’d rather use something else.  I tried footage with Windows Movie Maker and OS X iMovie, and both imported and played it with no problems at all.

Considering the price of $299.99, the video quality from the MinoHD is great.  Improving the resolution could have just further shown up a poor quality lens, but the footage I’ve taken so far has bright, rich colors and surprising levels of detail.  Sound, too, has improved, with more tonal range and increased microphone sensitivity.  Since there are no moving parts in the camcorder you won’t miss noise-reduction.

While there are a few points about the Flip MinoHD I wish had been addressed – the small display and more zooming capabilities, the MinoHD is overall a great example of KISS (keep it simple stupid), straightforward and successful.  Little details – PC and Mac software, the tripod mount – add sparkle to the MinoHD, but at its core I think it’s a fantastic way to shoot decent 720p video.

Measuring just 4 x 2 x 0.6-inches and weighing 3.3oz, the MinoHD is intended for point-and-shoot users who want a straightforward way to take high-definition footage.  To that end there’s no expandable memory or complicated settings, just onboard software that offers basic editing and uploading.  Alternatively it’s compatible with Windows and Mac editing apps.

The MinoHD boasts up to 2hrs use from its integrated, non-user-replaceable battery, and connects directly to a TV via the include cables for instant playback.  It’s available, in black, from Amazon, Best Buy, Target, Walmart and other retailers, or in custom casings from TheFlip.com; both options have an MRSP of $229.99.