This creation is called the “eCog Mercury” and you can grab your own for a mere $1,250 USD and you’ll still need the Sony laptop itself. What Dunn sells here is his services and the final product, the final product being the laptop connected to the hardware here. What you’re going to get on the side is a slightly more difficult to repair laptop in the end, mind you.

This isn’t the first Steampunk modification of a piece of hardware on the laptop side of things, and it certainly wont be the last. We look forward to the continuation of the genre to be sure, as it’s rather rare that a modification in the vein of steam that doesn’t shine out as a fine art of work – or at least its rare that one reaches the top of the web like this one has. There’s also a video of this device in action, have a peek!

[via Technabob]

The news came rushing in with another update, this time to the VAIO SB line with a new color option – red, added to the black, white, blue, and pink options already available. All three lines, SA, SB, and SE, feature 2nd generation Intel® processors ranging from Intel Core i3 to Core i7. Sound nice to you? The software updates to the other parts of the VAIO line will get you jumping for joy as well.

In this newest refresh, both the VAIO F and L CPUs ship with 2nd generation Intel Core processors as well as a slew of pre-installed software. Inside you’ll find the Sony Imagination Studio Multimedia Edition, this including Vegas Movie Studio HD Platinum, ACID Music Studio, and Sound Forge Audio Studio. That’s more than $200 USD worth of software in the machine right off the bat.

And you didn’t think they’d update every other letter and leave the VAIO C and E to sit, did you? Now you’ll be able to get the VAIO E with a Core i5 processor and the VAIO C with a Core i7 if you wish, and Y – there’s a Y, too, will be coming out in black in addition to its already available pink and silver. AND, yes there’s more, starting on 10/6/2011, VAIO customers get a free Music Unlimited plan for 180 days – if they’re a new subscriber, that is.

It’s a VAIO holiday for all!

What you’re about to see is Sony engineer Shinji Oguchi’s teardown of the laptop he certainly helped create. Sony lets us know that this is also Oguchi’s first visit to the United States as well as the SGNL by Sony studio. In addition to both the teardown and the put back together videos Sony is giving away a free upgrade to full HD display on models ordered now through 3/31/2011 – all you’ve got to do is select “13.1 LED backlit Full HD display (1920×1080)” while you’re building your custom laptop in the Sony store and enter coupon code “ZFREEHD” at the checkout. Note also that this coupon is limited to 2 per order and is limited in whole to 250 uses, so go for it quick!

First let’s have a look at the teardown of this magnificent machine:

Then let’s have a look at putting it back together!

Look like the amalgamation you’re looking to construct and keep? I think we’ll leave this to the professionals. Note also that this device features Intel’s Light Peak port with 10Gbps bi-directional data transfer speeds and is available in several color combinations including black, carbon indigo, and premium carbon black. Exciting! A 0.66-inch thin masterpiece for the ages.

[via Sony]

The Sony VAIO E Series laptops come in 14-inch and 15.5-inch models and are available in four colors: midnight blue, glacier white, charcoal black, and blush pink. There’s also a 17.3-inch model, but it comes in only charcoal black or glacier white. A geometric pattern throughout the lid and palm rest areas adds a unique touch of style and is fingerprint-resistant.

Other than looks, the E Series packs a second-generation Intel Core i3 or i5 processor. The 15.5-inch model in charcoal black can also have the option of an AMD E-350 dual core processor with Radeon HD6130 graphics. The E Series will be available for pre-orders beginning June 19 on Sony’s website and will be priced starting at $550.

The Sony VAIO C Series laptops are available in two new colors of Neon Red and Thunder Blue and come in both a 14-inch and a 15.5-inch model. Select models come with the second-generation Intel Core i5 processor, Blu-ray Disc drive, and Radeon HD 6630M 1GB Hybrid graphics. Pre-orders for the C Series will also begin June 19 on Sony’s website and will be priced starting at $730. The Neon Red color will be available this summer only through select retailers.

Press Release:

SONY VAIO E SERIES LAPTOPS BRING EXCEPTIONAL DESIGN TO EVERYDAY USE

SAN DIEGO, June 15, 2011 – Sony today debuted a new, artfully-crafted collection of its affordably-priced line of VAIO® E Series notebooks.

The E Series 14-inch and 15.5-inch notebooks are available in four stunning colors— midnight blue, glacier white, charcoal black and blush pink — while the 17.3-inch model comes in charcoal black and glacier white. Geometric patterns appear on the lids, and on matching palm rests, and all the colors are fingerprint-resistant to help keep the models looking brand new while users stay connected and entertained.

“The VAIO brand stands for excellent quality and standout design,” said Mike Lucas, senior vice president of Networked Technology and Services Division at Sony Electronics. “The new E Series delivers both, plus entertainment and connectivity options, at a price the everyday user can afford.”

On top of its great looks, the E Series’ textured, dimpled touchpad, edge-to-edge isolated keyboard featuring an integrated number pad (15.5- and 17.3-inch models only), and three unique hardware buttons: WEB, VAIO and ASSIST provide a great user experience.

The WEB button provides a one-touch Internet connection without a full boot into Windows® while the VAIO button launches Media Gallery™ software, Sony’s intelligent playback software. The ASSIST button opens VAIO Care™, a built-in troubleshooting and maintenance program.

Entertainment options abound in the new E Series. With the integration of Intel Wireless Display technology (select models), users can easily enjoy online and laptop-stored content like videos, photos, online TV shows and movies on their big screen TV (with an adapter, sold separately) with up to 1080p resolution. Also available on select models are Remote Keyboard, which connects the VAIO PC to a BRAVIA TV and a Blu-ray Disc™ players (select models). Also available is Remote Play for PS3, which allows access to content stored on the PlayStaton®3 over the internet.

Entertainment features available on all models include an LED backlit LCD screen for better clarity, detail, and crisp colors, an HDMI® output (cable sold separately) for a wired connection to an HDTV set, and a built-in microphone and web camera with face-tracking technology for crystal-clear video chats.

Processor options in E Series include a 2nd generation Intel® Core™ i3 or i5 processor with Intel ® Hyper-Threading and Turbo Boost technology 2.0, delivering the performance needed for multitasking. An AMD E-350 Dual Core Processor with AMD Mobility Radeon™ HD6130 Graphics Vision Technology for advanced graphics and beautiful detail also powers a 15.5-inch E Series notebook which is available in charcoal black.
Pricing and Availability
The VAIO E Series notebook will retail starting at about $550. It is available for pre-order starting June 19 online at http://www.sony.com/eseries. It will also be sold at Sony Stores and at other major retailers around the country starting next month.

Editor’s Note: For complete specifications and digital images, members of the news media are invited to visit Sony Electronics’ news and information web site at www.sony.com/news. For all things VAIO visit www.sonyelectronicscommunity.com.

BRIGHTEN YOUR SUMMER WITH SONY’S NEW VAIO C SERIES LAPTOPS

WHO:
Sony Electronics

WHAT:
New Sony® VAIO® C Series laptop:

Get portability, performance and multimedia entertainment in the new Sony VAIO C Series laptop. It is available in two new colors, Neon Red and Thunder Blue, and in 14-inch and 15.5-inch screen sizes. A second generation Intel® Core™ i5 processor (select models), Blu-ray Disc™ drive (select models) and AMD Radeon™ HD 6630M 1GB Hybrid graphics (select models) give you visibly smart performance and amazing picture quality all in a one-of-a-kind design.

Intel® Core™ i5 processor for visibly smart performance with a boost
Intel® Core™ i3 processor visibly smart performance starts here
Windows® 7 Home Premium
Create, edit & share your digital life with Sony Imagination Studio™ Suite 2 VAIO® Edition (for Signature Collection models only)
The 14-inch model provides up to nine hours of battery life and the 15.5-inch model offers up to eight hours of battery life with the standard lithium ion battery
Share your laptop content wirelessly on your HDTV with Intel® WiDi (adaptor is sold separately)
Type and chat in dim light with backlit keyboard with number pad (select models) and HD web camera powered by Exmor™ sensor technology
Hybrid Graphics deliver power when you need it and lowers power consumption when you don’t (select models)
Shortcut buttons provide quick access to the web, Media Gallery™ software and VAIO Care™

WHEN:
The VAIO C Series laptop will be available for pre-sale on June 19 at http://www.sony.com/cseries for a starting price of about $730. It will be available in Neon Red this summer exclusively through select retailers include ABT Electronics, B&H Photo, Fry’s Electronics, J&R Electronics, MicroCenter, Nebraska Furniture Mart and Sony Stores. It will also be available in Thunder Blue at other major retailers around the country starting next month.

The touch screen has Edge Access built into the screen’s bezel that will function like on-screen shortcut keys. The display itself is a 1920 x 1080 full HD display with 3D included. One pair of USB rechargeable 3D glasses are included. Inside are some powerful performance options: Quad Core Intel i7 processor, Windows 7, Nvidia graphics with 1 GB VRAM, and USB 3.0. Sony says options will vary, but the L series looks like it has the potential to perform. It has built in HD webcam by Exmor, and the option for Blu-ray disk and DVR.

It will be available in all black and a premium White Signature Collection model. The pre-sale will begin on July 13th on Sony’s site and at select retailers nation wide. No official word as to which retailers will be on the short list. The price is estimated at $1,420. That seems a little high for a PC, but we will have to see which options you get for that price. The L Series has some good looking specs, and has the potential for some excellent performance. With the HDMI cable, a game console or other device can be connected to turn this VAIO into entertainment central.

Press Release:

New Sony® VAIO® L Series All-in-One desktop:

With so many integrated features, including a 3D display, the L Series delivers the ultimate one-stop shop for your every productivity and entertainment needs. The VAIO L Series All-in-One desktop is a contemporary high-definition PC/TV with a stunning 24-inch (diag.) LED backlit multi-touch display that offers intuitive touch access to Internet and TV(select models), Blu-ray Disc™ movies (select models), music, photos and more.

The Sony VAIO L Series features a full HD 3D display and lets you enjoy 3D Blu-ray Disc™ movies and PC games in 3D. You can also connect to a PlayStation®3 entertainment system via HDMI® and enjoy 3D gaming on the 24-inch full HD display. One pair of USB rechargeable, active shutter 3D glasses are included with the L Series desktop.

Powerful and Productive:

• Quad Core Intel® Core™ i7 processor for visibly smart performance at its best (select models)
• Windows® 7 Professional (select models)
• Windows® 7 Home Premium (select models)
• Dedicated NVIDIA® graphics with 1GB VRAM (select models)
• Sleek and sexy All-in-One design from any angle
• Compact All-in-One design, wireless keyboard and mouse offer a clutter-free workspace
• Wait less and transfer data faster with USB 3.0 technology
• HD web camera powered by Exmor™ sensor offers great low-light performance and superb
video chatting quality
• VAIO Care™ software makes PC maintenance simple

Easy Entertainment:

• Explore the web, music, photos and more with a touch of a finger
• Multi-touch controls offer a simple, intuitive way to explore your PC
• Edge Access™ technology incorporates touchable controls into the display’s bezel
• Experience 2D and 3D Blu-ray Disc™ movies (select models) and games in stunning Full 1080p HD
• Enjoy your photos and videos in 3D with the 3D photo and video viewer
• Enjoy rich, full audio with S-FORCE™ 3D Front Surround Sound technology
• Connect your PS3™ system or set-top box via HDMI input
• Experience your content in a whole new way with Media Gallery™ software
• A true All-in-One solution with a PC, Blu-ray Disc™ player (select models), HDTV and DVR (select models) in one sophisticated wall-mountable package (mount sold separately).

The L Series with 3D technology will be available July 13, 2011 for pre-sale at www.sonystyle.com/lseries and at select retailers around the country for about $1,420. The new L Series comes in black or a premium white Signature Collection model.

To achieve that, mind, you’ll have to strap on the optional $150 “slice” battery. Without it, the S-Series is a waifish 0.95-inches thick and 3.8lbs, available in brown, black or silver. Options include a Blu-ray drive, while a backlit keyboard and Exmor-sensor equipped webcam are standard. It hits pre-order today, priced from $1,350.

Meanwhile, the new Sony VAIO F-Series gaming notebooks are also on order from today, with a 16.4-inch 1920 x 1080 Full HD display, quad-core Core i7 processor, a choice of NVIDIA GeForce GT 540M (1GB) or 520M (512MB) graphics and up to 750GB of storage. There’s also a backlit keyboard, USB 3.0, an HD webcam and S-Force Front Surround 3D technology along with Dolby Home Theater v3 support. The F-Series kicks off from $1,100.

Press Release:

SONY BRINGS MORE POWER TO GO WITH NEW S SERIES LAPTOP

Optional Sheet Battery Doubles Battery Life Up to 15 Hours

SAN DIEGO, May 25, 2011 – Sony’s newest S Series VAIO® laptop combines for the first time portability, performance and power in a thinner, lighter design perfect for everyone from students to business travelers.

The new S Series continues Sony’s efforts to offer users more personalized options and flexibility that fits their lifestyle. Select S Series models sport elegant design in burnished brown, jet black or platinum silver with magnesium and aluminum materials, and incorporate a built-in lithium polymer battery that when coupled with the advanced large-capacity optional sheet battery, can stay mobile and unplugged for up to 15 hours with solid state drive configurations. Intelligent charging enables you to charge the optional sheet battery separately and attach it to the system without shutting down for maximum flexibility.

“Users these days want a laptop that will last for hours without charging, is small and light enough to carry around with you but doesn’t sacrifice any of the performance and power that you’d find in a full-sized PC,” said Mike Lucas, senior vice president of Networked Technology and Services Division at Sony Electronics. “You can fly nonstop from Los Angeles to Tokyo or attend a full day of classes on just one charge with this S Series laptop when combined with the optional sheet battery.”

This 13.3-inch S Series is packed with powerful performance—all in a thin 0.95-inch profile that only weighs 3.8-pounds with the standard battery. Incorporating all the mobility of VAIO laptops, this new model delivers impressive portability and performance with the available second generation Intel® Core™ i7 processor. Coupled with Hybrid Graphics as well as dual channel solid state drive options (select models), the S Series laptop is truly top of the line.

Ultra Mobility and Performance

Performance is top priority with the second generation Intel Core i7 processor that delivers even more performance automatically when you need it. With Intel Turbo Boost Technology 2.0, the processors increase speed automatically delivering the performance needed for multitasking.

AMD Radeon™ HD 6630 1GB Hybrid Graphics card (select models) with 1GB VRAM gives a premium visual quality and intense HD performance without placing huge demands on the CPU. Plus, it offers a performance boost to your day-to-day processor functions for a faster, more optimized overall computing experience.

For maximum performance and ample storage, select models feature dual channel solid state drive with RAID 0 technology.

The S Series laptop comes with one-touch VAIO, ASSIST and WEB buttons, for launching Media Gallery™ software, VAIO Care™ software and access to the web without full boot-up into Windows®, all with a touch of a button.

The new S Series models offer a built-in web camera powered by an Exmor™ sensor that allows for great low-light performance. With exceptional picture quality, the 13.3-inch (1600×900) widescreen display includes an LED backlit keyboard, illuminating the lettering for typing in low-light situations. And with the built-in microphone you can video message with family, friends and coworkers. Face tracking technology allows the camera to automatically adjust focus and follow you as you move around while video chatting.

Packed with Multimedia

Sony knows entertainment is always at the forefront and the VAIO S Series delivers. Whether you’re watching a stunning Blu-ray Disc™ movie (select models) or enjoying video captured from your compatible camcorder. The versatile Blu-ray Disc drive on the VAIO S Series laptop (select models) combines the power of HD video playback with the convenience and utility of DVD and CD read/write functionalities. Providing the best picture and the best sound with stunning clarity, Blu-ray Disc technology is the ultimate way to enjoy your entertainment.

With Intel® Wireless Display 2.0, you can sit back and experience your favorite videos, photos and music on your TV. Stop crowding around a laptop screen and view and share content from your hard drive, home network or the internet wirelessly on your HDTV utilizing the adapter (sold separately; restrictions apply).

Pricing and Availability

The VAIO S Series laptops are available for pre-sale today at www.sonystyle.com/sseries starting at about $1,350, and the optional sheet battery at about $150.

Additionally, Sony added two new colors to its existing S Series line. The new pink and blue S Series models will available at www.sonystyle.com/sseries starting in June.

MEDIA ALERT:

ULTIMATE IN MOBILE MULTIMEDIA: SONY INTRODUCES THE NEW F SERIES LAPTOP

WHO:
Sony Electronics

WHAT:
New Sony® VAIO® F Series laptop:

Made for multimedia enthusiasts who want to game, watch movies or listen to music anywhere, anytime, Sony’s new VAIO® F Series laptop is a multimedia entertainment powerhouse. This laptop packs the power and state-of-the-art performance of a full-sized PC into a portable design.

Multimedia Marvel
Experience Blu-ray Disc™ movies and games in stunning 1920×1080 Full HD 1080p on a 16.4-inch widescreen display
Enjoy cinematic sound with S-Force™ Front Surround 3D technologyand rich audio sound from Dolby® Home Theater® v3
Outstanding graphics performance and responsive game play with NVIDIA® GeForce® GT 540M (1GB) or 520M (512MB)
Type and chat in dim light with backlit keyboard and HD web camera powered by an Exmor™ sensor
Press VAIO button to enjoy your media in a whole new way with Media Gallery™ software
Connect your VAIO® PC to a PlayStation3® system and other Sony® connected devices with Remote Keyboard
A/V control buttons let you play, pause, stop and move from track to track with ease

Power and Performance
Quad Core Intel® Core™ i7 processor for visibly smart performance at its best
Genuine Windows® 7 Home Premium
USB 3.0 ports allow for speedy transfer to external devices
Up to 750GB HDD for extra-large capacity and storage
One touch web access without full boot up into Windows® with WEB button
Maintain and troubleshoot PC issues with VAIO Care™ software, just push ASSIST

WHEN:
Available May 25, 2011 for pre-sale at www.sonystyle.com/fseries and at select retailers around the country for about $1100. The new F Series comes in silver, matte black or a premium white Signature Collection model. Images are available at www.sony.com/news.

This Type-A USB jack on what’s being called Sony’s new Ultimate Mobile PC VAIO Hybrid PC, of which not a whole lot is known other than whispers of “USB 3.0 jack, HDMI, Ethernet, AMD Whistler discrete graphics, and a Blu-ray Disc writer.” Plus it’s got a dock that attaches to VAIO’s Thunderbolt jack. What does that mean? Is it on their newest laptop here or is it on some sort of dock?

Another site sure of the idea that Sony will be using USB to implement Light Peak (now called Thunderbolt) is GulaDigital, they being very excited that Sony would use an industry standard rather than a new port like Apple has done. This raises the question up to you, the reader – do you think it’s a better idea to have a whole separate port the way Apple’s done it on their newest wave of MacBook Pros and etc, or do you think an upgraded USB port is best?

See Apple’s Thunderbolt Port: A Closer Look for more information on the Mac interpretation.

Think while you’re thinking about it how limited both choice is. For the USB choice, you’ve got no speedy video delivery. For Apple’s version, you’ve got a limited amount of choices for cords that can plug in that port. Intel is not convinced, Canon camera is opting in, and Lacie’s already got an external HD almost ready. Is Thunderbolt here to stay?

Battery life from the ultraportable is expected to be 8 to 16.5 hours, helped by the absence of an onboard optical drive. However, when you’re back at your desk, the docking section will have an AMD Whistler-XT 1GB GPU, Blu-ray burner, HDMI and VGA outputs, ethernet and USB ports, in a unit weighing around 0.68kg (so you could, feasibly, carry it around with you as well).

As for the Chrome OS machine, that will have an 11.6-inch 1366 x 768 display, 1GB of RAM and 16GB of storage courtesy of a memory card. It will run NVIDIA’s Tegra 2 processor and have WWAN and WiFi from the outset, with Bluetooth and GPS enabled later in its lifespan. Dimensions are 298 x 215 x 19.9 mm and the ultraportable tips the scales at around 1kg. OS is a combination of Google’s web-centric platform and some custom VAIO software, and the launch is tipped for summer 2011.

Without that extra “slice” you’re looking at up to 5.5hrs runtime from the standard battery or up to 8hrs from the $100 upgraded “large capacity” battery. The entry-level VAIO S has a Core i3-380M processor, but there are Intel’s Core i5-480M and i5-580M to choose from as well. RAM is up to 8GB, and there’s NVIDIA GeForce 310M graphics with 512MB of dedicated memory if you’re not happy with the standard Intel HD integrated GPU.

WiDi 2.0, optional Blu-ray and the promise of Core i7 chips later in the year round out the main specs; more details on hardware and software here. The Sony VAIO S Series is expected to begin shipping midway through March.

Press Release:

SONY PACKS PERFORMANCE IN THE NEW THIN AND LIGHT VAIO S SERIES LAPTOP

SAN DIEGO, March 7, 2011– Sony Electronics today announced the VAIO® S Series laptop featuring the powerful performance of a larger full-sized PC packed into a thin one-inch profile design and 13.3-inch screen form factor. Incorporating all the mobility of VAIO laptops, this new line delivers ultimate portability and performance with the second generation Intel® Core™ i5 and Core i7 processor coupled with Hybrid Graphics as well as dual channel solid state drive options (select models).

Select S Series models sport a premium and elegant design in black or white with magnesium and aluminum materials, and all of them incorporate a built-in lithium polymer battery that when coupled with the all new and advanced large-capacity optional sheet battery, you can stay mobile and unplugged for up to 15 hours. Intelligent charging enables you to charge the optional sheet battery separately and attach it to the system without shutting down for maximum flexibility.

“We continue to raise the bar when it comes to the mobile computing experience,” said Mike Lucas, senior vice president of Networked and Technologies and Services Division at Sony Electronics. “The VAIO S Series laptop makes no compromises by offering the ultimate, full-featured ultra-mobile PC.”

Ultra Mobility and Performance
Performance is top priority with the second generation Intel Core i7 and Core i5 processors that deliver even more performance automatically when you need it with a better visual PC experience built-in. With Intel Turbo Boost Technology 2.0, the processors increase speed automatically delivering the performance needed for multitasking.

AMD Radeon™ HD 6630 1GB Hybrid Graphics card (select models) gives a performance boost to your day-to-day processor functions for a faster, more optimized overall computing experience while lowering power consumption.

For maximum performance and mobility, select models features dual channel solid state drive with RAID 0 technology.

The S Series laptop comes with one-touch VAIO, ASSIST and WEB buttons, for launching Media Gallery™ software, VAIO Care™ software and access to the web without full boot-up into Windows, all with a touch of a button.

All models incorporate backlit keyboards, illuminating the lettering for typing in low light situations. The built-in web camera powered by an “Exmor” sensor also allows for great low-light performance. And with the built-in microphone you can video message with family, friends and coworkers. Face tracking technology allows the camera to automatically adjust focus and follow you as you move around while video chatting.

Packed with Multimedia
Sony knows entertainment is always at the forefront and the VAIO S Series delivers. Whether you’re watching a stunning Blu-ray Disc™ movie (select models) or enjoying video captured from your compatible camcorder. The versatile Blu-ray Disc drive on the VAIO S Series laptop (select models) combines the power of HD video playback with the convenience and utility of DVD and CD read/write functionalities. Providing the best picture and the best sound with stunning clarity, Blu-ray Disc technology is the ultimate way to enjoy your entertainment.

With Intel® Wireless Display 2.0, you can sit back and experience your favorite videos, photos and music on your TV. Stop crowding around a laptop screen and view and share content from your hard drive, home network or the internet wirelessly on your HDTV utilizing the adapter (sold separately).

Pricing and Availability
The VAIO S Series laptops are available for pre-sale today at www.sonystyle.com/sseries starting for around $970, and the optional sheet battery for around $150. Video footage of the new S Series laptop will be available at http://blog.discover.sonystyle.com/vaios.

That allows you to use the all-in-one as a standalone display, useful if you want some downtime with your PS3. There’s up to 1TB of HDD storage, up to 8GB of DDR3 memory and four USB ports – two each of USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 – along with WiFi b/g/n and Bluetooth 3.0+HS.

The “edge access” offers a trigger to the Media Gallery if you tap the VAIO logo in the corner, while other areas allow for navigation and zooming of documents and webpages, switching between on-screen windows, pulling up the on-screen keyboard or opening the user guide. No word on pricing, but the Sony VAIO L Series will go on sale from the end of March 2011.

Press Release:

A touch of brilliance: new VAIO L Series by Sony

All-in-one multimedia PC with 24” Full HD touch screen and “Edge Access”,
Blu-Ray Disc and one-touch web

Slim, space-saving desktop PC with large multi-touch screen
Control functions easily with innovative touch sensor in screen bezel
24” (61cm) Full HD VAIO Display Plus with LED backlight
HD web camera powered by “Exmor” for clearer video chat
Blu-ray Disc (selected models) and S-Force Front Surround 3D for thrilling entertainment
Use as Full HD monitor to enjoy PlayStation®3 and other connected devices, even when PC is switched off
Surf the Internet in seconds with one-touch WEB access

Everyone in the family can enjoy a beautiful view of their favourite videos, photos, games and more with the stylish new VAIO L series multimedia PC from Sony.

The all-in-one VAIO L Series makes an elegant focal point for your home multimedia collection. Ideal for any living space, the slim, space-saving design features a glossy black finish, with the tilt-adjustable ‘floating’ display resting on a sleek V-shape stand.

The stunning design of new VAIO L Series is accented by a 24” (61cm) Full HD VAIO Display Plus screen with LED backlight. This super-size display brings all your movies, photos, music and games vividly to life with superb clarity and contrast.

It’s beautifully easy to interact with your media collection using the full-frame multi-touch screen. Open and scroll through files, zoom and rotate images with intuitive fingertip gestures… and no mouse or menus needed.

In an exciting innovation by Sony, the LCD screen of VAIO L Series is surrounded by a touch sensitive new “Edge Access” that gives friendly ‘no mouse’ access to key functions.

Touching the VAIO logo in the top corner of the bezel launches Media Gallery – the intuitive way to browse and enjoy your collection of photos, videos and music. Other touch-sensitive regions of the bezel let you navigate or zoom documents and web pages, flick between on-screen windows, launch an on-screen ‘virtual’ keyboard or view a handy operation guide. There’s also an illuminated Sony logo on the bezel that dims at a touch for comfortable viewing in darkened rooms.

With the latest generation of speedy Intel® Core™ i7 or i5 processors inside, VAIO L Series provides all the power you need to manage today’s media collections. Latest NVIDIA® graphics with DX11 support assure an even more satisfying HD video experience with the new generation of PC games designed for multi-core processors.

Depending on configuration, a Blu-ray Disc™ writer lets you create, edit and store HD content with up to 50GB of storage on a single Blu-ray Disc. And whether you’re playing games or watching HD movies, S-Force Front Surround 3D complements your HD entertainment experience with powerful, ultra-realistic audio.

The integrated HD web camera powered by “Exmor” delivers a crisp, clear High Definition image. It’s ideal for more realistic, satisfying web chats and video calls.

With a touch of the handily-placed WEB button you’re powered up and online in seconds. There’s also an ASSIST button that launches VAIO Care software, troubleshooting problems and keeping your VAIO in top condition.

An HDMI output connects VAIO L Series to any HD Ready television to watch video, photos, graphics and games on your TV screen. There’s also an HDMI input that turns VAIO into a Full HD monitor, even when the PC’s not booted up. You’ll enjoy a superb view of PLAYSTATION®3 games and other connected HD sources, with incredible detail and contrast.

Wireless data transfers are accelerated by Bluetooth® 3.0, while SuperSpeed USB 3.0 boosts file transfer speeds by up to ten times compared with USB 2.0.

The all-in-one 24” VAIO L Series family multimedia PC by Sony is available from the end of March 2011.

There’s also four USB ports – three 2.0, and one 3.0 – along with up to 320GB of HDD storage and up to 4GB of DDR3 memory. As well as the AMD GPU there’s integrated Intel HD graphics with automatic switch-over, and a DVD burner.

WiFi b/g/n, Bluetooth 2.1 and an HD webcam round out the main specs, and the C Series gets the same keyboard backlighting and instant-boot WEB mode as the S Series. No word on pricing at this stage, but the Sony VAIO C Series should make its retail debut from March 2011.

Press Release:

Light up your life with new 14” VAIO C Series

Colourful notebook PC with 3D output and stand-out looks to match your lifestyle

Stunning notebook PC with ground-breaking ‘light emitting’ translucent style option
High-contrast 14” (35.5cm) widescreen VAIO Display
HD web camera powered by “Exmor” for clearer, sharper video web chat
HDMI out (3D supported) for watching videos and games on 3D TV
Surf the Internet in seconds with one-touch WEB access

Seeing really is believing. With eye-grabbing looks that demand attention, the colourful new 14” VAIO C Series from Sony makes a dramatic lifestyle statement. It’s also a fully-featured notebook PC, with ample power to handle your day-to-day computing needs.

The latest VAIO C Series showcases a radical style direction by Sony that stands out from run-of-the-mill notebook PCs. A choice of fashion colours include two special orange and green ‘light emitting’ options. This audacious design scatters light along edges of the translucent PC lid and other key surfaces to create a dramatic glow effect.

Aside from ground-breaking looks, new VAIO C Series balances portability and performance to make light of everyday tasks – from emailing to editing presentations.

The high contrast 14” (35.5cm) real-wide VAIO Display with LED backlighting provides plenty of screen space for web browsing, photo viewing and document editing.

Night or day, new VAIO C Series is beautifully easy to use. Backlighting on the full-pitch isolation keyboard illuminates automatically for precise, accurate typing when the lights are low. There’s also a multi-touch trackpad, and an ambient light sensor that optimises screen brightness for a clear, comfortable picture in daylight or at dusk.

The integrated HD web camera powered by “Exmor” delivers a crisp, clear HD image for more realistic web chats and video calls.

With a touch of the handily-placed WEB button you’re powered up and online in seconds. Launching Internet access without a full boot-up, it’s a valuable time-saver for checking emails in a café or airport lounge. There’s also an ASSIST button that launches VAIO Care software, troubleshooting problems and keeping your VAIO in top condition.

14” VAIO C Series isn’t short on computing power and storage capacity to accommodate everyday multimedia and general computing needs. The latest Intel® Core™ i5 processor is matched by up to 320GB HDD space and 4GB RAM for comfortable multitasking with Genuine Windows 7® Home Premium installed.

Connectivity options include Bluetooth®, four USB ports (one USB 3.0 and three USB 2.0) and a new HDMI out (3D supported). Just connect your 3D TV to enjoy favourite 3D movies and games on the television screen.

Available as an option when you order VAIO C Series online, hybrid graphics switch automatically between performance and battery-saving modes to suit the task in hand. Other choices when you order online from Sony include CPU and storage enhancements to power up your VAIO.

There’s a colourful family of official accessories by Sony to complement the stand-out looks of the latest 14” VAIO Series. A curvaceously sculpted Bluetooth wireless mouse and funky keyboard skins are joined by a sleek carry pouch with a colour-coordinated lining to match your notebook.

The brilliantly styled new 14” VAIO C Series of notebook PCs by Sony is available from March/ April 2011 depending on country.

The display runs at 1366 x 768 and has a low-reflection coating, while the chiclet keyboard is backlit with auto-brightness control. Integrated 3G is an option, and there’s a WEB instant-boot mode for when you just want quick internet access.

Ports include USB 3.0 and USB 2.0, and there’s a Blu-ray drive along with WiFi b/g/n and Bluetooth 2.1. No word on pricing at this stage, but the Sony VAIO S Series will go on sale from March 2011.

Press Release:

Power in Motion: boost your productivity with new VAIO S Series

Slim, stylish 13” notebook PC by Sony packs greater stamina with less to carry

Thin and light with elegant new ‘full flat’ design for enhanced mobility and superior robustness
Work and play longer with new smart battery concept
13.3” (33.7cm) VAIO Display Plus
Dynamic Hybrid Graphic System for balanced stamina and performance
Fast Boot and quick web access for increased productivity
Backlit keyboard and ambient light sensor
VAIO “everywair” 3G WWAN (selected models)

Power, design and mobility come together beautifully with the new VAIO S Series of 13.3” (33.7cm) slim notebook PCs from Sony.

The slim, light VAIO S Series features a stylish new ‘full flat’ design that’s crafted in magnesium with a wide aluminium palmrest for strength, lightness, usability and looks. There’s also a cleverly concealed hinge mechanism that doesn’t distract your view of what’s on screen. Overall thickness shrinks to less than 24mm, while weight is a travel-friendly 1.75kg (approx.)

VAIO S Series introduces a smart new battery concept that lets you keep working day and night without a pause. The internal lithium polymer battery provides power for up to 7 hours on-the-go computing (in Stamina mode). It’s partnered by a second thin, flat optional lithium polymer extended battery that can be charged separately from the PC and added without removing the internal battery. The second battery attaches without having to switch off the PC, boosting stamina to up to 14 hours if you’re far from mains power.

Dynamic Hybrid Graphic System switches seamlessly between the integrated GPU and high-performance AMD Radeon™ HD 6000 Series card (with either 512MB or 1GB VRAM), according to the task at hand. Whether you’re watching processor-intensive HD videos or just simple note-taking, you’ll always enjoy the optimum balance between performance and battery stamina.

The 13.3” (33.7cm) VAIO Display Plus brings all your documents to life with excellent brightness, colour contrast, clarity and detail. The LCD’s advanced low-reflection coating allows easy viewing in any lighting conditions, offering the optimum balance of suppressing reflections while maintaining clear images. With a resolution of 1366×768, the real wide aspect ratio display is perfectly proportioned for browsing dual web pages side by side.

The backlit isolation keyboard allows comfortable typing by day or night. There’s also an ambient light sensor that automatically dims brightness of the high-quality VAIO Display to conserve power when the lights are low.

VAIO S Series is designed with day-to-day productivity firmly in mind. Fast Boot gets you up and running with 50% quicker than conventional notebook when loading of Genuine Windows® 7. It’s a valuable time-saver if you’re on a deadline or rushing for the airport. There’s also a conveniently-placed WEB button that powers up your PC for Internet access in seconds. It’s ideal for checking any last-minute e-mails while sitting in a caf�� or departure lounge.

Available on selected models, embedded VAIO “everywair” 3G WWAN lets you connect on the move via your mobile broadband operator at up to 7.2Mbps.

New VAIO S Series is available in a choice of black, white and silver finishes. There’s an additional choice of exclusive pink and blue colour options available online from Sony.

Co-ordinated accessories include the BPSC24 external battery that’s supplied with its own charging adapter. There’s also a new flat-design port replicator that docks with VAIO S, allowing you to work while the attached BPSC24 battery charges.

The new VAIO S Series slim, ultra-mobile notebook PCs are available from March/ April 2011 depending on country.

The unit on the showroom floor sported 4GB of RAM, 500GB internal storage, 802.11n WiFi, and Bluetooth connectivity. The laptop was pretty sturdy but noticeably light which makes it the perfect candidate for the new Zacate series from AMD.

The unit seemed to be lacking in the power department and word was that it’s battery was not up to par, only lasting just over 3 hours. Hopefully, when the device is made available, Sony will offer extensive configuration options to make this a truly powerful lightweight notebook.

Looks spectacular doesn’t it? Sometimes its just painful to report on pieces of technology sliding their way through the FCC, searching for patents, etc, because I know, we know, that this just gets your tastebuds all bumping and your glands all salivating. Maybe have a candy bar while you wait?

[via FCC]

You’ll be able to get your hands on a Sony VAIO EA series 14-inch black-and-gold Arabesque-style notebook, which is what you can see above. That will cost you $970. Or, if you are looking for something smaller, but still want the same level of class, then the Sony VAIO P netbook, with its 8-inch display, might be more to your liking. It features crocodile casing in pink or black, and it will run you a cool $999. There’s more to choose from, if you head on through here. Anyone thinking they know someone who would love a laptop that just looks expensive?

[via Laptoping]

Video demo after the cut

In fact, it’s pretty darn fast compared to Apple’s other recent SSD product, the iPad.  A cold boot takes just 15 seconds, while resuming from sleep mode is a matter of seconds. When the biggest delay to getting started is waiting for your WiFi to reconnect, you know your laptop is doing something right.

The Vaio lines can be fitted with Intel Core i5-580 and i5-460M CPUs for users that want more power and those looking for a cheaper offering can get a new Pentium option on some Vaio models. The EA and EB models can also get a new 1GB graphics card for more video performance.

Sony is also offering the machines with a free upgrade to a HD resolution screen now until October 9 or when supplied run out of the free upgrade units. The VAIO L series AIO machine gets a Blu-ray reader/writer option and 2TB of storage. Sony also has updates for the F series with a new NVIDIA GeForce GT 425M graphics card with 1GB of RAM and USB 3.0 port.

Sony has a new website that lets the user build their own custom color combinations for the Vaio E notebook. The color options allow you to choose your mouse, notebook, keyboard skin and sleeve combination.

There are eight color choices for the mouse that you can choose from. Sony is offering a free keyboard skin to change the color of the keyboard for anyone who buys a custom built Vaio EB, EA, or EC notebook by July 17. Buyers can view the custom colors for the protective sleeves too. I guess this is a good thing since you can see what your chosen color combo will look like rather than waiting to get it and just hoping it looks as good as you thought it would.

It also starts at $899.99, $100 less than the original model, complete with a 1.6GHz Intel Atom Z530 processor, 2GB of RAM and a 128GB SSD. WiFI b/g/n and Bluetooth 2.1+EDR are standard, while integrated Verizon WWAN is an option.  The display is 8-inches and 1600 x 768, and Sony reckon you’ll see up to 4.5hrs of standard use at the default brightness.

[via Pocketables]

The VAIO Z and Y Series notebooks will need to have an activated Verizon Wireless WWAN card in order to use SMC, which will be toggled on and off through the bundled SmartWi utility.  As on other devices, there’ll be password protection and a unique ID so as to prevent other people leaching your data allowance.

The Sony VAIO Z series kicks off from $1,950 and the VAIO Y series from $770; obviously you’ll need to budget for a Verizon data plan too.

Press Release:

NEW SONY VAIO PCS DOUBLE AS WORLD’S FIRST MOBILE MULTIPLE HOTSPOTS

Subject: Media Alert: VAIO Z and Y Series Laptops Act as Hotspots for Up to Five Devices

WHAT: The VAIO Z and Y Series PCs are the world’s first out-of-the box laptops that act as a personal hotspot. Select models of these series feature the exclusive new Sony embedded wireless technology called Share My Connection™ (SMC). With SMC you can turn your laptop into a mobile wireless access point that can connect up to five other PCs or networked devices, such as smartphones, mp3 players, and cameras. A subscription is required.

WHO: A perfect built-in network solution for business travelers, those on-the-go or anyone looking to save some money by sharing a single network connection, Share My Connection is secure and lets you extend your connectivity with coworkers, friends, and family members.

The Z model offers premium portability and serious power. A breeze to carry at about 3.0 lbs, this PC features a durable carbon fiber and aluminum casing and delivers up to seven hours of battery life for true mobile freedom. It incorporates a 13.1-inch high-resolution LED backlit widescreen display, delivering a bright picture with 100 percent color saturation. The extremely thin unit also comes with an optical drive (Blu-ray optical drive optional).

Just in time for back-to-school season, the Y Series laptops comes in five new exciting colors including purple violet, fuchsia pink, pear green, teal blue and black. With a thin 1.2-inch profile and 13.3-inch LED backlit widescreen display, the sleek Y model offers lower power consumption for improved battery life for that active student lifestyle.

WHEN: Available now for pre-sale at www.sony.com/SMC and at select retailers around the country for about $770 for the VAIO Y Series and $1950 for the VAIO Z Series. To find the closest Sony Style store, please visit www.sonystyle.com.

There’s also WiFi b/g/n and Bluetooth 2.1+EDR, along with a 128GB SSD, webcam and a battery good for up to 4hrs runtime with the 8-inch 1600 x 768 display at default brightness.  RAM is 2GB and OS is Windows 7 Home Premium.

Interestingly, while the first-gen VAIO P had integrated WWAN mobile broadband, the new version doesn’t seem to offer it.  That could all change before the ultraportable officially begins shipping later this month, however.

[via Pocketables]

The J-series is a line of 21.5-inch AIO machines with dual digital tuners and dual AVC Transcoding in the two high-end models, which also feature Blu-ray drives. The 220,000 yen high-end model has a touchscreen while a 200,000 yen version lacks touch. A cheaper 160,000 yen version uses a DVD drive and dual terrestrial tuners.

The F-series notebooks range from 255,000 to 175,000 yen and all have 16.4-inch screens. The high-end version has dual digital tuners, dual AVC, BD drive and more. The next step down has dual terrestrial tuners, dual AVC transcoder, and a BD drive for 195,000 yen and will land on June 26. The low-end version has dual digital terrestrial tuners and a DVD drive for 175,000 yen.

Update: Sony USA have been in touch to confirm US pricing and availability.  It looks like only the J-Series will get a US release, priced from $900 and available for preorder now.  However there are also two new E-Series notebooks, which start at $700 and are also available for preorder now.

The 14-inch Sony VAIO EA and 17.3-inch EC join the EB 15.5-inch model, coming in five translucent, high-gloss colors— Caribbean Green, Iridescent Blue, Coconut White, Hibiscus Pink and Lava Black— and three matte colors—Maple Brown, Silver White and Gunmetal Black.

Press Release:

VAIO J All-In-One Puts Music, Photos and Blu-ray Disc Movies One-Touch Away

SAN DIEGO, June 8, 2010 – Sony today unveiled its new, affordable touch-enabled, multi-media machine— the VAIO® J Touch All-In-One PC.

With the VAIO J Series’ multi-touch screen, easy access to your PC, HD movies— your entire entertainment hub— is readily at your fingertips.

Equipped with a 21.5-inch (diagonal) 1920×1080 widescreen panel, the unit displays high-definition content in Full HD. Select models feature a Blu-ray Disc™ optical drive so you can enjoy movies in stunning 1080p high definition.

“The J Series changes the way consumers interact with their PC enabling them to tap, drag, zoom, rotate and engage with their content and entertainment like never before,” said Mike Lucas, senior vice president of the VAIO business at Sony. “And with its attractive price point, this cutting-edge technology will reach a whole new audience.”

The J Series comes with three unique hardware buttons—VAIO, ASSIST and DISPLAY OFF to get you to where you want to go with a touch of a button.

Launch directly into Sony’s own Media Gallery software by pushing the designated VAIO button and simplify your music library. With Media Gallery you can automatically create 21 unique channels of music based on beat, tone, rhythm and other elements. It also enables you to rediscover forgotten favorites by recommending content you already own based on your unique listening and viewing habits.

Facilitate simple do-it-yourself PC maintenance procedures by pressing the ASSIST button and launching the included VAIO Care™ software program. Finally a DISPLAY OFF button is included so you can turn off your screen for privacy or to perform nighttime applications without sending your PC into hibernation.

By utilizing built-in wireless 802.11 b/g/n Wi-Fi technology and your wireless router (required, sold separately), you can position the model virtually anywhere in your home and access the Internet, email or home network.

A built-in webcam with face-tracking technology and microphone let you video chat with colleagues. Included Webcam Message Board software makes it easy to create video messages or leave handwritten notes on the screen. A third-party internet service provider is required.

The unit packs a powerful 2010 Intel® Core™ processor (select models), loads of RAM, and an optional dedicated NVIDIA® GeForce ® series graphics for graphic-intense gaming and movies. It comes with Windows® 7 Home Premium or Professional 64-bit operating system.

Featuring a stylish, compact design the PC comes with an adjustable stand to help you adjust it to meet your desired viewing or touch angle or simply to decrease the slant for space-saving. A wireless keyboard and mouse that can easily be stored under the unit’s display are included.

The VAIO® J Touch All-in-one PC will start at about $900. It is available for pre-orders today online at www.sonystyle.com/pr/jseries. It will also be sold at Sony Style® stores and select retailers around the country starting next month.

The special version is called the VAIO W Series Imperial Lime Edition and carries the Billabong clothing brand on the lid. The machine’s lid is covered in art in bright colors to set the little rig apart from the other VAIO W units.

Under the bright paint the machine has a 10.1-inch LED backlit screen with a resolution of 1366 x 768 and a 250GB HDD. Other features include up to eight hours of battery life, an Intel Atom 1.66GHz CPU, 1GB of RAM, and the machine weighs 2.96 pounds. The normal W machines sell for $449.99 and the Billabong version starts at $500.

As with the Sony VAIO X, it’s obvious that the company’s engineers have done some sterling work squeezing all the necessary components down to suit the 1.4lb VAIO P form-factor.  Unfortunately, they’ve also made some compromises; for instance, the SSD Sony have used has a non-standard connector, which will likely make upgrades a headache.

Still, there’s also more efficient cooling systems thanks to a magnesium alloy frame, which should hopefully avoid the VAIO P from burning up your lap, and Sony have moved around a lot of the components having learned layout lessons from the first-gen machine.  Still very niche, then, but an impressive piece of design and engineering all the same.

[via jkkmobile]

Sony USA tells us that the new VAIO P will be going up for preorder at www.sony.com/pr/pseries (at time of writing it’s still showing the existing model).  Five colors will be available – orange, pink, white, green and black – and each SKU will have an integrated accelerometer and new trackpad controls built into the screen bezel.  More specification and hardware details here.

There’s also WiFi b/g/n, Bluetooth 2.1+EDR and a digital compass, along with two USB 2.0 ports, GMA 500 graphics and 2GB of DDR2 RAM.  The 8-inch widescreen display runs at an eye-crunching 1600 x 768 resolution, while the standard battery is apparently good for up to 5hrs (or 10hrs with the optional extended pack).

Navigation is either via the central trackball, a new touchpad integrated into the screen bezel (handy for using the VAIO P while walking) or by physically tilting the notebook to move backward and forward in the browser, flick through photo galleries or PDF files.  Sony have preloaded a GPS app which can show location details together with nearby points of interest and local weather forecasts.

Sadly the new VAIO P is still too early for Intel’s latest-generation Atom Z6xx “Moorestown” processors, which would’ve squeezed out a little extra power and battery life (and answer one of our criticisms of the first-gen model, its sluggishness).  Available in orange, green, pink, black or white, the Sony VAIO P will go on sale from June 2010; no word on pricing as yet.

[via Netbooknews]

Press Release:

Sony delivers a smarter on-the-move computing experience: Ultra-portable, easy to carry new VAIO P Series

· Colourful ultra-portable PC weighs just over 600g

· New design for two-handed operation while standing or walking

· GPS and Digital Compass

· Accelerometer sensor

· Built-in Everywair 3G

· Clear, bright, widescreen VAIO Display Plus

· Easy to use with Quick Web Access

It’s smaller than a notebook and smarter than a smartphone: the colourful VAIO P Series from Sony is your perfect partner for on-the-move computing.

Weighing just over 600g and slipping effortlessly into a bag or jacket pocket, new VAIO P Series gives you all the power of a fully-featured Windows® computing experience… and so much more.

Ideal for busy people who can’t sit still, it’s the first VAIO designed for simple operation if you’re standing or walking. The central trackball is complemented by an additional touchpad and mouse buttons. Duplicating the main controls, they’re located at either edge of the screen for comfortable operation with both thumbs while you’re holding the computer in two hands.

VAIO P Series is the first notebook computer from Sony with built-in GPS and a new Digital Compass. Perfect for telling you where you are and what’s happening around you, they can help you find your hotel or a nearby restaurant if you’re standing on the street corner in an unfamiliar city1.

A brand-new VAIO Location Search software offers a real-time map view without tying up your web browser. Your map position and orientation are displayed along with nearby Points of Interest and even local weather conditions.

The ultra-light notebook’s ‘on-the-go’ credentials for travellers are boosted with Everywair 3G on-board, giving high-speed connectivity to mobile networks (where available).

New VAIO P is the first notebook from Sony with a built-in accelerometer that responds to physical movements. Just give VAIO a gentle shake to ‘flick’ through pictures or the pages of a PDF document, or navigate back and forth through your web browsing history.

The sensor also recognises when VAIO P Series is turned on its side, automatically ‘flipping’ the screen for easy reading of documents or web pages in portrait mode. The notebook’s additional mouse buttons are perfectly placed for comfortable page-turning when you’re reading in portrait position – just like a paperback book or magazine.

New VAIO P Series is beautifully designed for easy operation, with a comfortable full-pitch keyboard for easy typing, plus a bright, extra-wide VAIO Display Plus that’s ideally proportioned for viewing movies or two web pages side-by-side. There’s also an ambient light sensor that dims screen illumination for comfortable viewing while saving power.

For extra convenience, dedicated buttons are provided for Quick Web Access and one-touch access to VAIO Care. There’s also a handy new Change Resolution button: instantly select a larger font size for easy on-screen reading, or choose maximum detail for HD movie viewing.

Available in five vibrant colours (black, white, pink, green and orange), the new VAIO P Series is complemented by a choice of stylish accessories that includes a distinctively perforated silicone slip case and carry strap.

The new VAIO P Series ultra-portable notebook computer is available from June 2010.

Back in March, Sony execs confirmed that they were looking into the development of segment-spanning devices similar to how the iPad has crossed device boundaries.  The WSJ suggested that a hybrid netbook/ereader/PSP style device was in the works, along with a new gaming handheld collaboration with Sony Ericsson in which Sony themselves would have a greater hand.

Of course, it could also be an updated VAIO P or similar netbook-sized notebook, using newer Intel chips.  There’s even speculation that the venerable VAIO UX UMPC might be making a comeback.

[via Pocketables]

The Best of R3 Media

Google Shares First Quarter Earnings, Plus More: Despite the fact that manufacturers are still releasing some top-notch Android-based handsets, were you curious as to the current state of Google’s mobile Operating System? Well, it doesn’t look like you have anything to fear. According to Jeff Huber, the Senior VP of Engineering over at Google, Android is currently up 70% from last year, and the Android Marketplace is now home to some 38,000 applications. That’s a pretty big increase. What’s better, though, is the fact that there are reportedly 60,000 Android-based phones sold every day around the world. That equals some pretty amazing numbers, if you ask us. [via Android Community]

iPad’s Camera Accessory Kit May Have Some Tricks up its (Figurative) Sleeve: Apparently, the iPad’s Camera Accessory Kit is going to be able to do some audio out. Which means that if you’re in the music industry, you’ll be able to connect some audio equipment to your Apple tablet, and do your business from that 9.7-inch touchscreen. And, while that’s a bit of a surprise for most, we think the bigger surprise would be if the same accessory kit would be able to power a device (like a MiFi) while you were on the go. We’re already keeping our fingers crossed. [via Everything iPad]

Will the Droid Incredible by HTC Support 802.11 b/g/n WiFi?: With the official announcement of the Droid Incredible by HTC, Verizon Wireless was kind enough to make sure that an officially official specifications sheet was listed with it. In that sheet, support for 802.11 b/g WiFi was listed. But, according to a leaked Info Center document, the Droid Incredible could in fact support 802.11 b/g/n WiFi. That would make a lot of people happy, and, considering it’s not every handset on the market that supports the “n,” it would indeed give the Droid Incredible another notch against the competition. [via SlashPhone]

The Dredge Net

Sony Splits VAIO In Two: Sony must have figured out that competing with Apple in the premium demographic really isn’t working out for them, especially in the United States, and apparently they’ve concocted a plan to get themselves a better name and reputation around the world. At least when it comes to their VAIO line of computers. Revealed today by Ryosuke Akahane, the company’s business deputy President, the company will keep the top tier for themselves, where they will continue to construct premium models of the VAIO computers. The second tier will allow third-party manufacturers, or contractors, to put the VAIO name on their models. Akahane promised that the quality of computers would be similar, but that the technology would generally always be better (at the start) in the top-tiered lineup. We’ll have to wait and see how this works out for the Japanese juggernaut. [via Electronista]

Google Proves They Care About the Environment: When you think about saving the environment, you think about the ways you’ll cut the grass in your yard, right? Well, what if you had the kind of yard that Google has up in Mountain View? That’s a lot of grass, we’ll assure you, so that would take up some gas in all of those lawnmowers, for sure. So, just as they did last year, Google is bringing the goats back to the large campus, making sure they get all the grass trimmed by a more natural methodology. Just ignore the transportation costs, to get those goats there, but hey, they’re saving the environment. [via TechCrunch]

SaskTel President and CEO Confirms June Launch for New iPhone: Who out there still thinks there’s not a new iPhone coming out soon? Well, if you’re one of those people, maybe this confirmation from the President and CEO, Robert Watson, of SaskTel will assuage you of your worries. He says that he’s already got his wireless carrier in line to launch the new iPhone (iPhone 4G, iPhone HD, whatever you prefer for now) on July 1st. That’s in line with SaskTel’s switch from CDMA to GSM, so don’t go thinking this confirms a Verizon Wireless iPhone. He goes on to say that it’s a good thing that Apple is launching their new iPhone in June, because basically he can’t wait to get in on the good stuff. We can’t help but agree. [via AppleInsider]

Boxee Thinks You Should Make their iPad App: But, only if you’re qualified, and want to work for Boxee, that is. The company is currently looking for someone that will take the role of their lead iPad and iPhone App Developer, so if you’re in the market for a new job and you’ve got the necessary skills, you should go take a look. As Boxee puts it, they consider the “other screens” just as important as the TV for enjoying video, so they want to make sure they cover all their bases. Or screens, if you will. [via Boxee]

Other specifications include 1GB of memory and Intel GMA 3150 graphics.  Connectivity, meanwhile, includes WiFi b/g/n, Bluetooth 2.1+EDR, ethernet, VGA output, a memory card reader and three USB 2.0 ports, along with audio in/out.

There’s also a webcam, stereo speakers and a microphone, while the battery is a 6-cell unit; Sony aren’t making any predictions as to runtimes, but the whole thing does weigh 1.4kg.  No official pricing in the press release, but expect the Sony VAIO M Series to go on sale later this month.

Press Release:

Light, convenient, ‘anytime’ computing made easy: Fully-featured VAIO M Series mini notebook
16 March 2010

· Mini notebook for your casual computing needs

· Intel® Atom™ Processor N450

· Widescreen 25.5cm (10.1”) LED backlit display

· 250GB HDD

· Available in black or white

Light, easy to carry and simple to use, the new VAIO M Series mini notebook from Sony is a great value way to experience the world of VAIO.

Available in black or white colour finishes, this fully-featured mini notebook is an ideal go-anywhere companion for web browsing, chatting with friends online or checking emails over a coffee.

VAIO M Series offers everything you need for day-to-day computing. With a 6-cell battery that fits nicely within the chassis and weighing just 1.4kg, it’s an ideal travel partner – or a handy second PC to share around the house.

The widescreen 25.5cm (10.1”) LED backlit display offers a crisp, clear view of web pages, photos and documents. There’s also a Motion Eye® camera embedded in the screen bezel for video chatting.

There’s plenty of space in the 250GB hard drive to store your documents, digital photos and video clips. With Wi-Fi and Bluetooth on board plus three USB ports, there’s no shortage of connectivity options, whatever you’re doing.

VAIO M Series comes supplied with Genuine Windows® 7 Starter Edition. A generous suite of installed software makes it easy to manage your digital media collection, copy files from another PC, keep your VAIO running smoothly and get technical help when you need it.

The new VAIO M Series mini notebook computer is available from the end of March 2010.

If you can look past the finish, battery life is 3.5hrs and optional upgrades to Core i5 processors, Blu-ray (rather than the standard DVD burner) and Bluetooth are possible.  Connectivity includes an eSATA/USB combo, three further USB ports and an HDMI port, and there’s a face-tracking webcam too.

The Sony VAIO E series is expected to begin shipping in February 2010, with prices kicking off at around $799.99.  You’ll have to bring your own sense of taste, however.

Press Release:

SONY DELIVERS ENTRY-LEVEL PRICED NOTEBOOKS IN HIP NEW COLORS

SAN DIEGO, Feb. 2, 2010 – Sony today took the wraps off its new line of affordably-priced notebooks in chic new colors— the VAIO® E Series.

The E Series comes in five translucent, high-gloss colors— Caribbean Green, Iridescent Blue, Coconut White, Hibiscus Pink and Lava Black— and three matte colors—Maple Brown, Silver White and Gunmetal. Subtle patterns can be found on the lids, of the glossy models, with the palm rest mirroring the color of the PC adding a splash of brightness to the unit.

“Sony is once again bringing innovation to the PC industry,” said Mike Abary, senior vice president of the VAIO business group at Sony. “The E Series delivers contemporary-cool designs at mainstream prices, proving consumers no longer have to sacrifice style for affordability.”

The edge-to-edge isolated keyboard has a numeric pad built-in, giving you the experience of using a larger computer in a much smaller footprint. A pleasing dimpled touch pad is seamlessly integrated into the palm rest.

The E Series notebook features an optional Blu-ray Disc™ ROM drive, making it ideal for viewing pristine HD content on-the-go. It also has the added convenience of DVD and CD read/write functionalities.

The model features a stunning 15.5-inch (measured diagonally) widescreen display with optional HD capability so movies, video and photos can be enjoyed in brilliant clarity and razor-sharp detail.

For those who prefer to watch content on a big screen television, the PC has an HDMI™ output so it can be connected to a compatible HDTV set for a larger viewing experience (HDMI cable required, sold separately).

The E Series notebook also comes with three unique hardware buttons– WEB, VAIO and ASSIST to get you to where you want to go with a touch of a button.

Quickly access the Internet, without full boot up into Windows®, by simply pressing the WEB button. Launch directly into Sony’s own Media Gallery software by pushing the designated VAIO button on the keyboard and create high-quality home movies. Finally troubleshoot any issues or facilitate simple do-it-yourself PC maintenance procedures by pressing the ASSIST button and launching the included VAIO Care™ software program.

Easily and quickly transfer and store data to peripheral devices utilizing the notebook’s eSATA/ USB port and three convenient USB ports. Select models incorporate Bluetooth® technology, enabling peripherals such as a wireless mouse to be utilized without tying up the unit’s ports.

A built-in webcam with face-tracking technology and microphone let you video chat with family, friends and colleagues. A third-party internet service provider is required.

Select E Series models pack an Intel® Core™ i5 processor with Hyper-Threading and Turbo Boost technologies, delivering the performance needed for multitasking. Up to 500GB hard drives are available, providing ample storage for all your photos, files and videos. All E Series PCs come pre-installed with Microsoft® Windows® 7 Home Premium operating system.

The E Series is ENERGY STAR® 5.0 Qualified, EPEAT® Silver registered and RoHS compliant. Its corrugated cardboard packaging is comprised of 95 percent recycled content. Sony will also help recycle your old PC (www.sony.com/green; recycling fees may apply).

The VAIO E Series notebook will retail for about $700. It is available for pre-orders today online at www.sonystyle.com/pr/e. It will also be sold at Sony Style® stores and at other major retailers around the country starting next month.

In fact Sony have basically thrown the works at the new laptops: the Z11Z9E has a 13.1-inch 16:9 1920 x 1080 Full HD display (the Z11X9E “makes do” with a 1600 x 900 panel), there’s an integrated DVD burner, 3G and up to 6GB of DDR3 memory.  Sony have also thrown in an automatic graphics system which intelligently switches between performance and stamina modes depending on what the system is being asked to perform.

Despite the specs, each is only 32.7mm at its thickest point, and they tip the scales at 1.43kg with the standard battery.  Both the new VAIO Z-series laptops will arrive in March 2010; Sony is yet to reveal pricing.

The machine has a 10.1-inch screen and a 250GB HDD. The screen is LED backlit with a resolution of 1366 x 768 and is available in white with a translucent green interior. The operating system is Windows 7 Starter edition.

There are various versions of the W on the Sony Style website for preorder at prices ranging from $449 to $599 and they are shipping at different times during January. I don’t see the model with the green translucent interior on the site right now. Some of the cheaper models use the Atom N280 processor while others use the new N450.

Windows 7 is available in whatever flavor you would like as well as a lot of other nifty stuff such as Blu-ray, a Digital TV tuner, 802.11n Wi-Fi and a fingerprint scanner. With the extended battery you can expect up to 17 hours of life while the standard battery still offers a considerable 11 hours of use.

With netbooks based on Intel’s Pine Trail platform slated to hit store shelves early this January, it is uncertain if tech shoppers will be willing to pay the substantial Sony premium ($1,405) for a CULV ultraportable.

[via netbooked]

To do so he used the hacked together build of Snow Leopard that’s been put together for the Sony VAIO P, reasoning that many of the components used in that don’t-call-it-a-netbook machine were the same as used in the VAIO X.  Happily it installed quite merrily, though as expected the WiFi doesn’t work.  Where fixing that in the VAIO P is a case of taking out the wireless card and swapping in a different one, it’s a more arduous task on the VAIO X since so much has been soldered into place in the name of space-saving.

Still, we’re sure some brave soul will attempt it, and until then we’ll just marvel at a notebook that manages to out-Air the MacBook Air.  Certainly not the cheapest Hackint0sh we’ve seen, but perhaps the most handsome.

[via Gadgetmix]

For instance, the display panel doesn’t route the antennas around the edge, as many bulkier notebooks do, but sandwiches LCD and antenna array together in two flat sheets.  Sony have seemingly reduced a standard 0.37mm thick glass plate down to sub-0.21mm thickness by grinding it.  Meanwhile all the mainboard components are mounted on one side, including some ports that appear to be hand-soldered into place; that’s meant that Sony needed to reduce the number of capacitors and other components in order to squeeze them in.

“Of all the features of the VAIO X, I was most impressed by the fact all the components are mounted on one side.  It is necessary to reduce the number of components to realize such a design. Also, patterning is much easier when components are mounted on both sides” unnamed engineer, TechOn

The end result is a machine that the engineer reckons would have cost twice as much to manufacturer as a regular notebook, and demanded comprehensive cooperation between the designers, engineers and production plants from early on in the project.  The VAIO X may be hugely expensive and underpowered, but it’s certainly an engineering marvel.

“I felt that Sony put its whole heart into developing this.  I would like to have a drink with the designers of the VAIO X. I think I will find a kindred spirit in those people” unnamed engineer, TechOn

Video unboxing after the cut

We don’t think we’d be alone in wishing for a slightly more aesthetically pleasing box; Apple get name-checked a lot in the design of their packaging, but that’s because it does help to make you feel you’re getting your money’s worth from their high-end computers.  The 11.1-inch VAIO X, meanwhile, gets the same sort of box as an entry-level VAIO notebook, despite costing twice the price.

Still, the proof of the pudding is in the fondling and NewGadgets certainly do plenty of that, running us through the VAIO X’s (minimal) selection of ports.  The Sony ultraportable is hardly ideal for most buyers, but as a halo product from a brand associated with indecently-skinny notebooks it certainly fulfils its brief.

[via Twitter]

Sony has voluntarily recalled the Sony VGP-AC19V17 power adapter that was sold with VAIO all-in-one computers, VAIO docking stations, VGC-LT series, VGC-JS2 series, and VGP-PRBX1 and VGP-PRFE1 computers. The AC adapters included with these devices have insulation inside that can fail over time posing a shock hazard.

Sony reports that it has received notification of four adapters short-circuiting and that none of the incidents have happened in the US and none of them resulted in injury. Sony wants users to stop using the AC adapters immediately and the adapters will be replaced free of charge.

In the sub-800g machines favor is, well, its incredible size: at 16mm thick it’s thinner than a MacBook Air, and yet by soldering the ports directly to the motherboard Sony have managed to outfit the ultraportable with more connectivity than Apple’s machine.  You get two USB 2.0, VGA and an ethernet port, though you’ll need to make use of the flap-down legs if you actually want to squeeze a wired network connection into the socket.

Less impressive is the flexible body, which – despite the exotic materials – bends “alarmingly under light pressure”, and the short-travel of the keyboard.  You’re also getting a mere 2GB of RAM and a 2GHz Atom processor, neither of which are exactly stellar, although the 256GB of SSD storage do at least maintain the premium message.  In the end, though, unless you’re seriously unwilling to carry any more weight around, T3 reckon the MacBook Air or Sony’s own Z-series VAIO are better bets.

Cerano’s VAIO P has the standard 64GB SSD and is unmodified from stock, at least as far as hardware.  All he did, in fact, was prop the netbook up to allow better airflow; temperatures during the benchmarking were in the 49 to 60 degree range.

Overall, CrystalMark took the laptop from 28,685 untampered to 33,654 at 2.3GHz, and Cerano claims it was stable at that speed.  Battery life would obviously take a hit if you ran it at that sort of speed 24/7, but if you need a sudden boost for A/V processing then it should work wonders.

[via UMPC Fever]

There’s also an ExpressCard 34 slot, three USB 2.0 ports, FireWire, a couple of memory card slots, audio in/out and a webcam.  Storage is up to 500GB (there’s no SSD option) while RAM is up to 8GB, and you can spec up to a 2.80GHz Intel Centrino 2 CPU.  Color choices include black, blue, white, pink and the rather fetching red shown above.

The whole thing measures 13.44 x 1.09-1.52 x 9.18 inches and weighs 5.3lbs.  The Sony VAIO CW Series is available to preorder now, priced from $799.99, and will begin shipping later in October.

Press Release:

Sony Launches Colorful New Notebooks Featuring Blu-ray Disc Technology and Windows 7 Operating System

VAIO CW Series Boasts Five Bold Colors, BD Technology and Windows 7 OS

Sony today announced the new VAIO® CW Series notebook featuring Microsoft® Windows® 7operating system.

The CW Series notebook features a 14-inch (diagonal) widescreen display with a 16:9 aspect ratio in a thin-and-light chassis. A perfect mix of performance and style, the CW model expresses your personality while letting you enjoy multimedia entertainment in style.

The notebook features an optional Blu-ray Disc™ drive so you can watch movies in stunning high-definition. It also lets you playback HD content on your compatible big screen HDTV, via the unit’s incorporated HDMI™ output, for big-screen entertainment. An incorporated NVIDIA® GeForce dedicated graphics card ensures you get the best out of your HD entertainment.

It comes in five eye-catching, high-gloss colors: fiery red, poppy pink, icy white, jet black and indigo purple. The glossy finishes are splashed across the exterior while a gradient color on the palm rest provides the PC with a head-to-toe color coordinated impression.

The notebook offers a fast, easy way to produce your own high-quality home movies and slideshows. Sony’s VAIO Movie Story software breaks complex movie production into three simple steps, freeing you from tedious hours spent mastering difficult and expensive video editing software.

The VAIO CW series notebook starts at about $780. It will be available at the end of the month online at www.sonystyle.com/cwseries, Sony Style® stores and at other major retailers around the country.