Posted by flung in Apple and Apple TV and Apple iPod and Apple iPod touch01 Sep 2010 09:02 am

As usual we’re not at the Apple press event but since Apple is live streaming the event, we’re able to provide some live blogging on all the announcements! Here goes!

10:01: Steve Jobs comes out on stage and introduces Woz (is he trying to make amends??

  • Steve is going over the retail stores – showing off the new Paris store (Hey – visit Paris and visit the Apple store right? Why not?)
  • Now talking about the recent opening of the 2nd store in China over in Shanghai. 40 foot high glass cylinder.
  • Third big store which opened recently was in London (2nd large store in London). Right in the heart of Covent Garden. This was Apple’s 300th store. Apple is now in 10 countries and will soon open up in Spain which would make it the 11th country.
  • 1 million visitors some days to Apple stores. 50 percent of visitors are buying their first Mac

10:05: Steve shifts to iOS:

  • 120 million iOS devices shipped in total
  • Activating 230K iOS devices per day. (These are new activations – NOT upgrades)
  • 6.5 billion downloads from the App store so far. 200 apps every second.
  • 250,000 apps now in the App store. 25K of the 250K apps are now iPad apps

10:08: Apple introducing iOS 4.1

  • Lots of bugs being fixed.
  • High Dynamic Range (HDR) photos comes to iOS 4.1
  • HD video upload over Wi-Fi
  • TV show rentals
  • Game Center debuting to end-users

Jobs now goes over some of the new features:

High Dynamic Range (HD) photos:

  • Take a picture and the OS will take three pictures – one normal exposure, one under-exposed and one over-exposed. Taken together, the OS will enhance the shot taken to extract details and colors you wouldn’t otherwise see.  You’ll see the normal photo and the HDR enhanced photo.

Game Center:

  • It’s an API and an App
  • It’s all about multiplayer games. Allows you to challenge your friends in games. Should you not have any friends, it will match you with others online.
  • Comes with achievements and leaderboards
  • Steve introduces Epic’s upcoming new game, code-named project “sword” – a role playing adventure. (This looks like one sweet game folks – wish I had a snapshot to show you). Game Center provides all the social interaction allowing game developers to focus on gaming and content. (oh this game is powered by Unreal tech). Will be available on iPod touch, iPhone and iPad this holiday season.

iOS 4.1 coming out next week – will be a free download via iTunes.

10:16 am: Steve now talking about iOS 4.2 coming out later on. This releasei s all about the iPad

  • All the things you’ve come to expect in iOS 4 will be coming to the iPad
  • Adding wireless printing (YAY!)
  • Stream audio, video, and photos over Wi-Fi

Steve is now demoing iOS 4.2. Shows off multitasking (Pandora in the background and checking email at the same time – oh and then browsing the web); Shows off folders support (same drag and drop feature for apps into folders);

iOS 4.2 is coming out in November – free update for all iOS devices.

10:20am: Steve moves to the entree today – all about iPods.

  • 275 million iPods have been sold so far

ALL NEW IPODS for every single model of iPod being announced today.

iPod Shuffle:

ipod shuffle 2

ipod shuffle

  • Smaller than 2nd generation and comes with buttons and playlist support
  • Comes with clip making it instantly wearable
  • Genius mixes support coming to shuffle
  • VoiceOver support
  • 15 hours of music
  • 5 colors
  • Sells for $49 dollars

iPod nano:

ipod nano 3

ipod nano

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  • Smaller than ever (it’s practically square folks)
  • No  more click-wheel
  • Adding multi-touch display to iPod nano
  • Comes with clip
  • 46 percent smaller and 42 percent lighter
  • Volume buttons
  • VoiceOver
  • FM radio
  • Nike+ support (nice!)
  • 29 languages
  • 24 hour battery life
  • Genius support
  • You can move icons around just like you would on the iPod touch/iPhone
  • Rotate the screen using your fingers (guess there’s no accelerometer)
  • (Whoops. Steve called the nano the iPod touch)
  • Comes in 6 colors total (4 + two new colors)
  • Sells for $149 dollars for 8GB; $179 for 16GB

iPod touch:

ipod touch

ipod touch 2

  • This is now the most popular iPod
  • Steve claims the iPod touch is now the #1 portable game player in the world. iPod touch outsells Nintendo and Sony portable game players combined. Has 50+ percent of the market share
  • 1.5 billion game and entertainment downloads just to iPod touch alone
  • New iPod touch introduced. Thinner than ever. Basically the same look as the iPod touch (though slightly slanted at the edges)
  • Comes with retina display – same as the one on the iPhone
  • A4 chip
  • 3 axis gyro
  • iOS 4.1 + Game Center
  • Front Facing Camera
  • Rear Camera with HD recording
  • 40 hours of music playback
  • FaceTime support
  • 8GB for $229
  • 32GB for $299
  • 64GB for $399

All new iPods available starting next week with preorders available now.

10:36am: Steve now showing off some new ads.

Wait.. was that a Beatles picture I see?

10:38am: Steve moving onto iTunes..

  • 11.7 billion songs downloaded from iTunes
  • 450 million TV episodes have been downloaded
  • 100 million movies downloaded
  • 35 million books downloaded
  • 160 million accounts with credit cards and one-click shopping in 23 countries

Steve announces iTunes 10.

  • New logo for iTunes 10 – they’re ditching the CD
  • New hybrid view showing off album art if you have more than 5 songs for an album

Announces “Ping” in iTunes 10. It’s a social network for music. Facebook and Twitter meets iTunes.

  • Follow your favorite artists and friends
  • Discover the music they’re talking about and downloading
  • Follow your friends and artists posts, photos, comments; see charts of music that your friends are downloading.
  • See your favorite artists posts, music, and upcoming concerts
  • Social music discovery
  • Follow and be followed
  • You can allow anyone to follow you OR you can control who can follow you (basically an approval mechanism). Be as public or private as you want.
  • Over 17,000 concert listings
  • 160 million iTunes users in 23 countries

Ping is also available on the iPhone and iPod touch. Ping will be in the iTunes App Store.

iTunes 10 is available today

But wait..

one more thing.

“One more hobby” to announce.. (of course it’s about Apple TV)

Steve acknowledges Apple TV has never been a huge hit.

People want:

  • Hollywood movies and TV shows whenever they want them. They don’t want “amateur hour”
  • everything in HD. HD won.
  • Lower prices for content
  • Don’t want a computer on their TV.
  • Don’t want to manage storage
  • Don’t want to sync to a computer (AMEN to that!)
  • Want hardware to be silent, cool and small

10:53am: Steve introduces the new 2nd generation Apple tV – one quarter the size folks!

apple tv

apple tv 2 

  • Matte black color
  • HDMI, USB, optical audio, Ethernet ports
  • 802.11n Wi-Fi
  • All new rental model. You rent everything. There’s nothing to store on the Apple TV
  • Stream content from your computer if you want to – no syncing required.
  • Movies, TV shows and music
  • All HD when available
  • No storage management
  • Stunning photo slideshows
  • Silent, cool and tiny
  • $4.99 first run HD movies to rent
  • 0.99 cent HD TV shows to rent
  • Streaming Netflix support
  • Rotten tomatoes ratings now in the UI

Time for a demo. Steve is renting Iron Man 2 (which isn’t coming out till the end of the month)

Some details on renting – you have 30 days to watch it and once you’ve started watching the show, you have 48 hours to finish it.

Showing off Netflix now. This is one beautiful user interface – arguably one of the best (if not the best) UI for Netflix yet.

Now talking about AirPlay. You can stream content from an Apple device to another Apple device – such as iPad to Apple TV. Watch a movie on your iPad then push it to your TV to finish it up.

Apple TV price lowered to $99 dollars.

Available in 4 weeks – pre-order today.

New iPods, new Apple TV, new iTunes, new iOS…

Chris Martin from Coldplay is now performing. Nice.

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Posted by flung in Cameras and Digital SLR Cameras and Sony24 Aug 2010 02:51 pm

1SLT-A55V_flash-up_SAL1855_lg

Sony also announced two other ? series digital cameras today – the SLT-A55V (above) and SLT-A33 (below) – both of which feature Sony’s newly developed “Translucent Mirror Technology” which achieves the “highest level of auto focus speed for both still image and movie shooting.”

1SLT-A33_image_02_lg

Both cameras feature a translucent mirror which enables light passing through the lens to be simultaneously received by the image sensor and the auto focus sensors resulting in speeds previously unattainable using traditional DSLR technology. Cameras with this technology can continuously and quickly focus while shooting stills and recording videos even in full HD. The A55 can shoot up to 10 frames per second on the A55 while the A33 can shoot up to 7 frames per second.

Other key features and specs for both cameras include:

  • Continuous Advance Priority AE mode
  • 15 point AF system
  • Continuous phase detect AF – even when shooting video
  • 16.2 megapixel resolution for the A55 and 14.2 megapixel resolution for the A33
  • Exmor APS HD CMOS Sensor
  • Full-time Live View
  • 3 inch LCD with TruBlack technology
  • BIONZ high-speed image processing engine
  • Ultra-high ISO sensitivity (ISO 100 to ISO 12,800)
  • Auto HDR support
  • 3D Sweep Panorama technology – creates two images from a single frame
  • A55 comes with built-in GPS
  • Memory Stick PRO Duo and SD card support

The A55 will cost around $750 and is expected in October while the A33 will cost around $650 and is expected in Sept.

For more information, check out the below press release:

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Posted by flung in Digital SLR Cameras and Sony24 Aug 2010 02:37 pm

1DSLR-A560L_wflash-up_wSAL1855_lg

Sony announced several ? (alpha) digital cameras today including the new SLR-a560 DSLR. Features and specs of the SLR-a560 include:

  • 14.2 megapixel resolution
  • Latest Sony Exmore APS HD CMOS sensor with low-noise processing for high quality pictures
  • BIONZ image processor with color-noise reduction
  • Multi-Frame Noise Reduction stacks a high-speed burst rate of six frames creating a single low-noise exposure that boosts effective sensitivity to as high as ISO 25600
  • Sweep Panorama mode – capture up to 180 degree horizontal or 126 degree vertical shots
  • 3D Sweep Panorama mode – shoot 3D panoramic still images with a single lens. Files can be enjoyed on compatible 3D displays
  • Full HD 1920 x 1080 60i video capture
  • Quick AF Live View with two sensors that maintain the same focusing speed as with the optical viewfinder
  • Two Live View functions
  • 3 inch LCD display which tilts 90 degrees up or down
  • 7 frames per second shooting spped
  • Built-in HDMI port
  • Built-in stereo microphone
  • In-camera High Dynamic Range (HDR) enhanced by incorporating highlights, midtones, and shadows
  • Supports Memory Stick PRO Duo, SD (SDHC/SDXC)

The ?560 with the body and a 18-55mm kit lens will be available in October for approximately $750 dollars. The body itself costs $650 dollars. For more information on the DSLR and several new lens introduced today, check out Sony’s press release below.

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Posted by flung in Camcorders and Kodak and Portable Video and Video24 Aug 2010 10:54 am

playtouch 1

I was wondering why Kodak portable video camcorders were being reduced in price over at Best Buy – and now I know. Kodak announced the new Kodak PLAYTOUCH Video Camera yesterday complete with a 3 inch capacitive touch-screen display and the ability to capture full 1080p HD video.

The touch-screen display allows users to easily navigate through HD videos with the swipe of a fingertip. Kodak even provides on-camera editing capabilities with the PLAYTOUCH – allowing you to trim/edit videos and extract still images from captured video clips.

Other key features of the new PLAYTOUCH include:

  • Full 1080p HD at 30 fps
  • 720p HD at 60 fps
  • 720p HD at 30 fps
  • WVGA at 30 fps
  • Built-in image stabilization
  • LCD glare shield
  • External microphone jack
  • Built-in USB arm
  • Kodak Share button – allowing for easy video uploads to YouTube and Facebook, as well as email
  • 5 megapixel HD still images
  • Smart face tracking technology
  • 4 capture effects including B&W, sepia, high saturation, and 70s film look
  • HDMI output (even includes an HDMI cable)
  • Up to 10 hours of HD video with SD/SDHC card slot (supports up to 32GB)
  • Li-Ion rechargeable battery with in-camera charging

About the only feature missing is water-proofing.

The Kodak PLAYTOUCH Video Camera will be available this fall in Smoke Gaze (Black), Chrome, Wine Country (Magenta), Cabana (Orange), and Spa Blue (Teal) for $229.95.

playtouch 2

playtouch 3

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Posted by flung in Digital Photo Frames and Kodak24 Aug 2010 10:39 am

KODAK PULSE 1

Kodak announced a larger 10 inch version of their popular PULSE digital frame yesterday to be available this fall at a suggested price of $199.95. The 10 inch PULSE features everything available in the current 7 inch including Wi-Fi connectivity, customizable email address, and the ability to connect to Facebook and Kodak Gallery photo albums. You can pre-order the 10 inch PULSE over at the Kodak Store with delivery expected around the beginning of October.

KODAK PULSE 2

KODAK PULSE 3

KODAK PULSE 4

[Check it out]

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Posted by flung in Digital Cameras and Kodak23 Aug 2010 01:13 pm

KODAK M590

Kodak announces today the new EASYSHARE M590 digital camera which the company claims is the “world’s thinnest 5x optical zoom digital camera.” Featuring a dedicated share button, the M590 makes it a snap to tag and share photos and videos captured on the camera to social networking websites such as Facebook, Flickr, YouTube, and Kodak Gallery as well as email.

Key features of the EASYSHARE M590 include:

  • 14 megapixel resolution
  • SCHNEIDER-KREUZNACH VARIOGON lens
  • Built-in image stabilization
  • Facial Recognition technology
  • Smart Capture feature
  • Intelligent scene detection – automatically analyzes the scene
  • Intelligent capture control – automatically sets camera settings
  • Intelligent image processing – reduces noise and clears up dark shadows
  • 2.7 inch LCD display with KODAK Color Science technology
  • Li-Ion rechargeable battery and in-camera charging
  • HD picture and video capture (1280 x 720 HD at 30fps)
  • Up to ISO 6400
  • microSD/microSDHC card support
  • The Kodak EASYSHARE M590 is available now in silver, red, purple, and blue for a suggested retail price of $199.95.

    KODAK M590 2

    KODAK M590 3

    KODAK M590 4

    [Check it out]

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    Posted by flung in Epson and Projectors23 Aug 2010 12:51 pm

    Epson announces two affordable projectors for small to medium-sized businesses today in the form of the PowerLite 1220 and PowerLite 1260 – both featuring 2600 lumens of color and white light output for “bright presentations and true-to-life color.” Here’s what you need to know about each of the new projectors.

    Epson PowerLite 1220:

    PowerLite_1220_Right_angle

    • XGA resolution
    • USB Plug ‘n Play setup
    • Additional USB port for direct connection of a USB memory device for PC-free slideshow capabilities
    • Automatic keystone correction
    • 1.2x optical zoom
    • Direct Power On/Off – allows an installed projector to be powered on and off with a flip of a wall switch
    • A/V Mute Slide instantly turns off the sound and images
    • 3LCD 3 chip technology
    • E-TORL lamp technology
    • MSRP of $649

    Epson PowerLite 1260:

    PowerLite_1260_Left_angle

    • Widescreen WXGA resolution (16:10 aspect ratio)
    • HDMI port
    • USB Plug ‘n Play setup
    • Additional USB port for direct connection of a USB memory device for PC-free slideshow capabilities
    • Automatic keystone correction
    • 1.2x optical zoom
    • Direct Power On/Off – allows an installed projector to be powered on and off with a flip of a wall switch
    • A/V Mute Slide instantly turns off the sound and images
    • 3LCD 3 chip technology
    • E-TORL lamp technology
    • MSRP of $749

    [Check it out]

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    Posted by flung in Mobile Phones and Verizon Wireless20 Aug 2010 11:38 am

    Verizon Wireless Salute

    Above is the new Verizon Wireless Salute – the first handset from ZTE USA to be available on Verizon Wireless. The Salute is a slim slider phone featuring:

    • 2.4 inch display
    • Built-in 1.3 megapixel camera
    • Speakerphone and Bluetooth headset support
    • Mobile Web capable
    • Text/Picture/Voice messaging
    • Mobile email/Mobile web email, and chat capable
    • Media Center provides access to downloadable games, ringtones, wallpapers, location-based services etc
    • Social Beat app for accessing social networking sites like Facebook, Twitter, and MySpace
    • Backup Assistant app saves and updates a copy of the phone’s address book to a secure website
    • VZ Navigator support
    • Bing Search
    • English/Spanish interface
    • Micro USB 2.0
    • 240 minute talk time and 220 hour standby time

    The Verizon Wireless Salute is available now for a price of $19.99 after a $50 dollar mail-in rebate and a new two-year agreement.

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    Posted by flung in Digital SLR Cameras and Nikon20 Aug 2010 11:07 am

    25472_D3100_left

    The Nikon D3100 digital SLR is the company’s latest entry into the enthusiast DSLR market place featuring a 14.2 megapixel resolution, easy-to-use operations, full HD video recording, and a simple graphics interface. 

    Ideal for those of you just getting into photography, the Nikon D3100 comes with a Guide Mode featuring an easy-to-use interface which guides through shots via an on-demand, step-by-step assistance. The Guide Mode is easily accessed through the Mode Dial on the top of the camera and features sample assist images that change with the camera settings. Nikon claims users can achieve “professional looking photographs” by simply following the guidance displayed on the 3 inch LCD display.

    Key features of the D3100 include:

    • EXPEED 2 image processing engine
    • 14.2 megapixel DX format CMOS sensor
    • 11 point AF system
    • ISO 100-3200 (expandable to 12,800)
    • Full HD 1080p (1920 x 1080) resolution video capture at 24p
    • 720p video capture at 24 or 30 fps
    • First DSLR to feature full time AF for D-Movie video shooting and while in Live Mode
    • Face Detection technology locks focus on up to 35 human faces
    • Movies are recorded in H.264 AVCHD codec
    • Edit recorded videos from within the camera
    • Built-in HDMI port
    • Active D-Lighting automatically fixes dark or backlit images
    • 420 pixel RGB color 3D Matrix Meter
    • 6 Automatic Exposure Scene Modes – Portrait, Landscape, Child, Sports, Close-up or Night Portrait
    • Picture Control – choose from Standard, Neutral, Vivid, Monochrome, Portrait, or Landscape
    • Built-in pop-up flash
    • Auto Scene Selector feature in Live View
    • Quiet Shutter Release mode which substantially reduces the sound of the mirror while shooting
    • Apply effects using in-camera Retouch Menu
    • Integrated Dust Reduction System
    • 3 inch monitor with one-touch Live View shooting and movie capture

    The D3100 will be available beginning in the middle of September for an estimated price of $699.95.

    25472_D3100_front

    25472_D3100_back

    [Check it out]

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    Posted by flung in Camcorders and HD Camcorders and Sanyo20 Aug 2010 10:37 am

    VPC-PD2

    Above is the new SANYO Full HD Pocket-Size Dual Camera, model VPC-PD2BK, featuring full HD video recording, 10 megapixel photo shooting, and 3x optical zoom all in a form factor the size of a deck of cards. The camera also comes with embedded software for easy use and sharing on social networking websites.

    Key features of the VPC-PD2BK include:

    • Shoot full HD videos at 30 frames per second
    • Capture 10 megapixel stills
    • 37 mm wide-angle lens
    • Mini-HDMI port
    • High-Speed Sequential Shooting Mode
    • Two microphones on the sides of the camera for recording stereo sound
    • Built-in USB connector
    • Rechargeable lithium-ion battery
    • Support for SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards
    • Measures 2.48 x 0.87 x 4.36 inches and weighs 3.7 oz

    The VPC-PD2BK will be available in September for a suggested price of $169.99.

    [Check it out]

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