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- Transport hit as snow sweeps in
Snowfalls of up to 16cm (6in) cause disruption to transport, with motorists warned to be aware of ice across much of Britain.
- West deplores UN Syria vote veto
Western nations deplore the vetoing by Russia and China of a UN resolution condemning the crackdown in Syria, as dozens are killed in Homs.
- 'A little too much drink' warning
Drinking "just a little more than they should" puts people at risk of serious illness including heart disease, stroke and cancer, the government is warning.
- Mitt Romney wins Nevada caucuses
Front-runner Mitt Romney looks set to convincingly win the Republican caucuses in Nevada, as he seeks to win his party's presidential nomination.
- PM urged to cut wind farm subsidy
More than 100 Conservatives are among MPs who have written to the prime minister calling on him to slash subsidies for onshore wind turbines.
- Seven dead in Kandahar car bomb
At least five police officers and two civilians have died in a car bomb attack on police headquarters in the southern Afghan city of Kandahar, officials say.
- Work contacts 'cut dropout rate'
The more young people come into contact with employers the less likely they are to drop out of school and become unemployed, research suggests.
- Vettriano's Butler in rare show
One of the most famous paintings by Fife artist Jack Vettriano has gone on public display for the first time in two decades.
- Scotland 6-13 England
England's new-look side give interim coach Stuart Lancaster the best possible start by claiming a first win at Murrayfield in eight years.
- Work programme on track: Grayling
Around 20% of unemployed people who have been on the government's main welfare-to-work scheme, the Work Programme, for at least 6 months have been found a job, the BBC has learnt.
- Huhne's exit 'a loss to cabinet'
Chris Huhne's resignation as Energy Secretary will be a loss to the cabinet and the Lib Dems, his former parliamentary private secretary tells BBC News.
- Ed Davey is new energy secretary
Lib Dem minister Ed Davey is named the new energy and climate change secretary following Chris Huhne's resignation, while Norman Lamb takes over his role as business minister.
- Health bodies reject NHS reforms
Physiotherapist leaders have joined the Royal College of GPs in calling for the health bill in England to be scrapped, increasing pressure on the government.
- Malaria toll 'is twice as high'
The number of deaths worldwide from malaria has been underestimated, according to data published in the medical journal the Lancet.
- Pupils learn how to 'fail well'
A top girls' school is planning a "failure week" to teach pupils to embrace risk, build resilience and learn from their mistakes.
- Universities warned over access
The incoming fair access watchdog says universities will be fined for failing to recruit more students from poorer backgrounds.
- FBI probes Anonymous phone hack
The FBI investigates how activists linked to Anonymous obtained a recording of a phone call between US and UK police on their operations against hacking.
- Prince optimistic for fisheries
Prince Charles says there is a reason to be optimistic about the state of the world's oceans, but it is "critically urgent" to tackle overfishing.
- The rush to the scooter
Scooters are becoming increasingly popular as people look to cut costs and stretch their budgets, but could the boom spark safety problems?
- Anti-fracking demo in Enniskillen
About 100 people gather in Enniskillen to demonstrate against the use of fracking to extract gas from shale rock in County Fermanagh.
- ANC youth leader appeal dismissed
South African youth leader Julius Malema loses his appeals against the ruling ANC's decision to suspend him for bringing the party into disrepute.
- Cairo clashes over football anger
At least four people are killed in clashes between Egyptian protesters and police, amid ongoing anger over deaths after a football match.
- Thousands in rival Moscow marches
Tens of thousands of people march in Moscow in protest at Prime Minister Vladimir Putin, while his supporters hold a rally elsewhere in Russia's capital.
- William starts Falklands duties
Prince William starts work as an RAF search and rescue pilot in the Falkland Islands, having arrived in the territory on a six-week routine deployment.
- BBC accuses Iran of intimidation
The BBC's Director General, Mark Thompson, accuses the Iranian authorities of intimidating those working for its Persian service.
- Sinai gunmen release US tourists
Two US women tourists and their Egyptian guide who were kidnapped in the south of Egypt's Sinai peninsula have been released, security sources say.
- Lance Armstrong team probe closed
US prosecutors close an investigation into allegations of criminal conduct over doping claims in a cycle team partly owned by Lance Armstrong.
- VIDEO: House of Commons
Ministers will "unwind" any tax avoidance schemes being used by public sector employees, Treasury Chief Secretary Danny Alexander has announced.
- VIDEO: Churchill and protege reunited
Paintings by Winston Churchill have gone on display alongside works by the now-famous Moroccan artist, Hassan El Glaoui, who owes his career to Churchill.
- Vimeo app lands for Windows Phone, lets you upload your next student film over 3G
height=150 Hello there Mango fans, is YouTube just a little too lowbrow for you? Well, fret not, Vimeo is here to stream all the HD student shorts your little Microsoft-loving heart desires. The official app doesn't just let you browse, search and view clips on the site, though -- it completely integrates with your account, allowing you to upload HD video, tweak the details of your uploads and even check stats. Basically, with this app in your pocket there's almost no reason to visit the desktop site ever again. Of course, the prerequisite sharing features are also included, because, what good is capturing and uploading all this lovely video if you can't tweet it out to all your friends. Check out the gallery below and hit up the source to download it for free from the Windows Phone Marketplace.
Gallery: Vimeo for Windows Phone height=150 height=150 height=150 height=150 height=150 Vimeo app lands for Windows Phone, lets you upload your next student film over 3G originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 05 Feb 2012 02:45:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink height=150 Pocketnow, The Verge | height=150 Vimeo (Marketplace) | Email this | Comments
- Windows Phone exec Brandon Watson leaves Microsoft, headed to Amazon
height=150 There's some more corporate reshuffling going on in the Windows Phone universe this week, now that Brandon Watson has confirmed his departure from Microsoft. Watson, who served as head of the WP Developer Experience, announced the news on his Twitter page Friday, and later told ZDNet that he's heading to Amazon, where he'll be Director of the Kindle Cross Platform team. In an e-mail to ZDNet's Mary Jo Foley, Watson acknowledged the difficulty of the decision, but ultimately decided that "the opportunity placed in front of me that was too big to pass up." At Amazon, the exec will be charged with laying out a roadmap for Kindle app development across first- and third-party platforms, including, of course, Windows Phone and Windows 8. Microsoft has yet to announce a replacement, issuing the following statement: "We can confirm February 6th is Brandon Watson's last day at Microsoft. Brandon did a great job helping us build a vibrant developer community and we wish him well with his next adventure."Windows Phone exec Brandon Watson leaves Microsoft, headed to Amazon originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 05 Feb 2012 00:34:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink height=150 WMPoweruser, ZDNet | height=150 @BrandonWatson (Twitter) | Email this | Comments
- Ask Engadget: Best sub-$100 camera/laptop bag?
height=150 We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget inquiry is from Joseph (he's from Atlanta) who needs a camera bag for his semi-professional photography enterprise. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "I've recently gotten into semi-pro photography and I've come to the problem of how to transport all my gear. I'm looking for a camera / laptop bag that has enough space for a DSLR body (Nikon D90), a 15-inch laptop, 3 or 4 lenses and a speedlight or two. My budget can't stretch beyond $100 and I need it to be durable and weather-proof. I don't have any preferences with style (backpack, messenger bag etc), I just need a large, affordable bag to carry all of my gear. Thanks for the help and keep the gadget passion guys!" We don't think you should scrimp too much on a bag, given it'll be carrying $3,000 worth of kit. Your host uses a Lowepro Fastpack 250, costing $99.95, its only drawback that it has no space for a tripod or cables, so you have to sacrifice a couple of lens slots just to tote your power lead. Other staffers suggested using a standard bag with individual Crumpler pouches (a suitable Crumpler like the "7 Million Dollar Home" is $150) or the KataKTD, which sadly doesn't pack a laptop sleeve. How about you, commenters? What's the budget bag you wouldn't let your DSLR venture away from? Together, we can work it out.Ask Engadget: Best sub-$100 camera/laptop bag? originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 04 Feb 2012 22:24:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | | Email this | Comments
- Roland's iModela 3D milling machine: it's a crafty tool
height=150 3D printing. Sure, that's pretty neat, but there are other ways to make three dimensional objects at home. Roland's new iModela, for example, is an "affordable" ($899) digital hobby mill that can carve 3D shapes, jewelry, textures and prototypes out of balsa wood, foam, modelling wax and plastics. Projects definitely need to be more on the petite side, but the 3.39inch x 2.17inch x 1.02inch milling area should be good for a wide range of small craft creations. The iModela comes with all the cutting tools, software and materials you need to get started, but if you've already been tinkering with ideas, there's also compatibility with other "popular" CAD software. Want to get making right away? Tap the source, or hit the PR after the break for more info. Roland's iModela 3D milling machine: it's a crafty tool originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 04 Feb 2012 20:24:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | height=150 Roland | Email this | Comments
- Sony Ericsson hangs ten, launches Xperia Active Billabong Edition
height=150 Sony Ericsson is looking to start a bromance with the McTwist-loving, Double-Cork-landing, A-Frame-riding masses jonesing for a new Android device. The handset maker has announced a "global strategic alliance" with Billabong to launch the Xperia Active Billabong Edition smartphone in select markets. The handset will come preloaded with exclusive content, including Billabong screen savers, and bundle several Billabong-branded games and applications. As the two companies tell it, the Xperia ABE is the "ideal smartphone for extreme sports enthusiasts." Accordingly, Sony Ericsson hardware is about to start making appearances at various "major" Billabong events. Unfortunately, this next bit is really going to harsh your mello: the hardware is identical to that of the Xperia Activeannounced back in June, complete with a single-core 1GHz processor, Gingerbread, a 3-inch Reality display and a five-megapixel shooter. Even with its no-so-extreme spec sheet, we give SE a gnar-lay for effort. Sony Ericsson hangs ten, launches Xperia Active Billabong Edition originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 04 Feb 2012 18:15:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink height=150 Unwired View | | Email this | Comments
- Snow Leopard update wreaks havoc on Rosetta, luddite users contemplate running with Lion (update)
height=150 Normally updates are meant to better your OS, delivering necessary tweaks and performance improvements. But this latest batch out of Cupertino's managed to do just the opposite for users running the Lion 10.7.3 package, as it's caused many applications to force crash and bewildered users to restore Time Machine backups. Well, now the hordes clinging to Snow Leopard can join in the commiseration, as forums begin to flood with reports of failed Rosetta compatibility. That software, essential for PowerPC programs to run on Apple's preferred Intel chipset, has been rendered useless by a just released security fix, prompting one community member to craft a DIY patch. While, Apple is reportedly working on a cure-all for these rampant woes, we'd caution any who haven't taken the plunge to sit this one out for a bit.
Update: Good news for those of you on Lion that haven't updated, as Apple's pulled the 10.7.3 delta update (responsible for borked installs), leaving those who haven't taken the plunge to try the larger (and non-problematic) combo one. Unfortunately for users of Snow Leopard, though, the troublesome security update lives on, so until Cupertino rectifies (and we update), sound off on how the temporary fix is treating you in the comments below.Snow Leopard update wreaks havoc on Rosetta, luddite users contemplate running with Lion (update) originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 04 Feb 2012 16:21:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | height=150 MacRumors, Apple | Email this | Comments
- Dashwire closes up shop, all your data to get flushed on February 15th (update: Windows Mobile devices only)
height=150 Ok, so chances are you probably haven't thought about Dashwire much in the last couple of years. Last time we covered the service was back in the halycon days of Windows Mobile 6.0, early on in the modern smartphone revolution. In case you need a bit of a refresher, Dashwire was a cloud service that delivered many of the ammenities we now take for granted in mobile device -- visual voicemail, threaded SMS, automatic sycing of photos, and status updates. Earlier this year, HTC snatched up the company which last made news with the free, and appropriately-named, Awesome Drop for Android (which seems to be dying a quiet death in the market). Well, the actual Dashwire service has been languishing for sometime now, but the company has decided to finally discontinue it completely for Windows Mobile devices and, on February 15th, will be shutting down its servers and deleting all user content. So, if you've got anything still sitting up in its aging cloud, now is the time to reclaim it.
Update: Despite the Dashwire service itself (apparently) no longer being listed on its site, HTC has contacted us to clarify that "that Dashwire is only closing down the original/old Dashwire.com service for Windows Mobile devices" and that it has "new services with Tier 1 operators that are live in market."Dashwire closes up shop, all your data to get flushed on February 15th (update: Windows Mobile devices only) originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 04 Feb 2012 14:33:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | height=150 Coolsmartphone | Email this | Comments
- Martin Scorsese's 'Hugo' Blu-ray 3D set for release February 28th -- 3D haters beware
height=150 Considering that Hugo was a flick capable of earning 4 out of 4 stars from noted 3D hater Roger Ebert, it will be interesting to see how it's received upon its home release February 28th. Nominated for 11 Academy Awards and currently rocking a 94 percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes, the fantasy tale of a boy who crosses paths with legendary filmmaker Georges Méliès in 1930s Paris may be the best example yet of how an artist can make use of the effect. The two hour six minute flick will be available in Blu-ray 3D combo pack, and 2D Blu-ray editions, with a 7.1 DTS-HD MA soundtrack and special featurettes on the making of the film and the real magician/director who inspired the story.
The release date is two days after the Academy Awards, and if this flick can snag Best Picture or Best Director it could become a turning point for 3D. New 3D movies are already on deck from other high-profile directors like Ridley Scott (Alien prequel Prometheus) and Baz Luhrmann (The Great Gatsby), while big budget conversions like Star Wars -- coming to theaters next week -- and already-sold-out-for-Valentines Day London Olympics in the summer, and 2012 is shaping up to be an especially rough year for 3D haters -- you have our deepest sympathies. Those on the other side of the fence can check after the break for a press release with more details and (2D) theatrical trailer, it's currently available on Amazon for preorders at $27.99, 2D only is $21.99. Martin Scorsese's 'Hugo' Blu-ray 3D set for release February 28th -- 3D haters beware originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 04 Feb 2012 10:38:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | | Email this | Comments
- Nokia establishes stance on conflict minerals in formal policy
height=150 Recent weeks have seen a swell of interest in corporate responsibility, particularly with regard to technology manufacturing and supply chains. Last month, Apple CEO Tim Cook affirmed his company's commitment to ethically and environmentally sound practices, evoking sentiments that were echoed today in a similar announcement from Nokia. Seizing the opportunity to establish some goodwill among socially conscious consumers, the Finnish manufacturer has just released a policy outlining its philosophy on conflict minerals -- metals like gold, tungsten and tin that have played a direct role in fueling civil violence and unrest in the Democratic Republic of Congo. In the document (linked below), Nokia acknowledged that it doesn't play a direct role in obtaining these materials, but emphasized its strict traceability requirements. All suppliers, Nokia says, must provide detailed information on the sourcing of its metals, going back to the smelter phase, at a minimum, and even to the mine itself, if necessary. The company also highlighted its adherence to guidelines established by the EICC-GeSI Extractives Work Group, which both Apple and Intel have already joined. Granted, it's impossible for a single company to wipe out civil strife and human rights abuses in one fell swoop, but with this codified approach, Nokia hopes to at least "increase transparency, ensure responsible procurement by our suppliers and sub-suppliers, and drive positive change."Nokia establishes stance on conflict minerals in formal policy originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 04 Feb 2012 03:43:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink height=150 The Verge | height=150 Nokia (PDF) | Email this | Comments
- Google TV 3.2 update enhances HLS video streaming support, Plex update takes advantage
height=150 The Google TV update that rolled out to Sony units earlier this week (no word on the Revue, yet) brought tweaks to Chrome and support for Blu-ray 3D playback on the player, but that's not all. The bump to Android 3.2 also improved hooks for developers to access channel listings in their apps, enabled hardware acceleration and last but not least, improved support for HTTP Live Streaming. That last detail is particularly important to those streaming video from their PCs using Plex, since additional HLS tweaks were necessary to allow viewing of files transcoded from otherwise-Google TV unfriendly formats. Also supported as in the Plex update is selection of alternate audio streams, subtitles, more channels and a few other fixes. Check out a Google+ post from Les Vogel of the Google TV team for all the Honeycomb 3.2 (API Level 13) details you can stomach, the Plex blog for more info on its software, or just make sure you're running the latest updates and take a look around yourself.Google TV 3.2 update enhances HLS video streaming support, Plex update takes advantage originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 23:52:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | height=150 Les Vogel (Google+), Plex | Email this | Comments
- Nike+ FuelBand's internals get splayed at the FCC
height=150 All of these wrist-mounted fitness gizmos are pretty nifty, but we always wonder how they get those rigid circuit boards into such an unsuitable form-factor. Well, thanks to those scalpel-happy boffins at the FCC's underground bunker, wonder no more. Nike's FuelBand was wheeled in on a trolley and torn (quite literally) to pieces, and we felt we just had to share the pictures with you. A long peruse of the user manual revealed that the two metal extender links (for bigger-wristed enthusiasts) have to be swapped out using a sizing tool -- but the manual notes that if one isn't to hand, a bent paperclip will suffice. The documents also revealed that it's using a TI CC2564Bluetooth radio and a stack provided by Stonestreet One. The monopole antenna is etched directly into the substrate of the flexible circuit board -- ensuring it'll bend around your bones and still operate. We also learned that once connected to your cellphone, it'll sit in a low-power "sniff mode," for two minutes and if there's no further activity it'll shut down. Of course, what's interesting to you (and us, honestly) is all the pictures in the second gallery, so get looking! Gallery: Nike+ Fuelband External Images height=150 height=150 height=150 height=150 height=150
Gallery: Nike+ Fuelband Internal Images height=150 height=150 height=150 height=150 height=150 Nike+ FuelBand's internals get splayed at the FCC originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 22:37:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | height=150 FCC | Email this | Comments
- Netflix teams with eyeIO to lower bandwidth use on movie night
height=150 Kicking up a fuss about Netflix hogging all your bandwidth? Perhaps the company's latest partnership could induce a rapid change of heart. The streaming service has paired up with eyeIO in hopes of keeping bandwidth usage during streams to a minimum, which they claim won't affect the content's overall quality. While the joint venture just became official, the startup's "ultra-low-bandwidth" encoding technology -- that allegedly can reduce usage on a 720p HD stream by more than 50 percent -- began its testing phase on the streaming-giant's offerings months ago. Although eyeIO's service has already been implemented by Netflix, it's worth mentioning this isn't an exclusive deal, thus it's possible for its competition to jump on the bandwidth conservation bandwagon in the future. More importantly, we're interested to find out if you have noticed any difference in your streams lately, so drop us a line in the comments below. Netflix teams with eyeIO to lower bandwidth use on movie night originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 21:44:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink height=150 Techland | height=150 eyeIO | Email this | Comments
- Oops! Motorola sold refurbished Xooms without deleting previous owners' data
height=150 Usually, when passwords and personal information are exposed, it's because someone hacked a company's not-so-secure system. Motorola, however, managed to put people's info at risk without such malfeasance when it failed to wipe the memory of a batch of refurbished Xooms. The tablets in question were sold by Woot.com between October and December of last year, and Moto is claiming that it made the mistake on only small number of slates. Of course, we don't know exactly how many Xooms were shipped with previous owners' data onboard, but we do know that the company is actively attempting to make amends. Moto's offering two years of Experian identification protection services to those whose info was exposed and owners of affected Xooms are getting a little something too. Just send the device back to Motorola on the company's dime -- where it'll be properly reset and sent back to you, along with a $100 American Express gift card for your efforts. Wondering if you're among the unlucky? Hit the PR after the break for more info, and those with Wooted Xooms can plug in their slate's serial number at the source link below to find out for sure.
[Thanks, Scott] Oops! Motorola sold refurbished Xooms without deleting previous owners' data originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 20:52:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink height=150 Chicago Business | height=150 Motorola | Email this | Comments
- ComScore: Android and iOS gallop ahead, US smartphone usage approaches 100 million
height=150 The latest report is in from ComScore, and as you might expect, the news is sunshine and roses for the crews at Google and Apple. Both companies platforms charted some worthwhile month-over-month gains, as Android is estimated to account for 47.3 percent of smartphones in the US, while iOS runs a strong second with 26.9 percent. Meanwhile, former BlackBerry fans continue to scatter, as the platform now accounts for 16 percent of smartphone users. Similarly, Windows Phone (and whatever's left of Windows Mobile) have taken it on the chin, and have fallen to just 4.7 percent market share. Without ever gaining much traction in the US, Symbian now makes up 1.4 percent of the smartphone pie. You'll find a quick look at the manufacturing side of the equation, along with the full ComScore press release, after the break. ComScore: Android and iOS gallop ahead, US smartphone usage approaches 100 million originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 20:03:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink height=150 TechFlash | height=150 ComScore | Email this | Comments
- webOS Enyo 1.0 now available to all, just requires patch and patience
height=150 HP's Enyo framework is an essential ingredient for allowing new apps to work on webOS devices with different resolutions, but due to some sort of ethnocentric hiccup, v1.0 hasn't officially reached all international webOS phones and tablets. Fortunately, WebOS Internals has prepared a nice little Preware install package that anyone, anywhere can enjoy. At this point, adding Enyo will only provide access to a few extra apps, but at least the world will be reunited in its preparedness for a glistening future, right?webOS Enyo 1.0 now available to all, just requires patch and patience originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 19:18:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink height=150 webOSNation | height=150 webOS Internals (Twitter) | Email this | Comments
- AT&T seeks to impose conditions on Dish LTE network, FCC to settle wireless squabble
height=150 You know the saying, second place is the first loser? Well, it looks like AT&T, which recently saw its attempt to absorb T-Mobile thwarted, is living up to that adage by petitioning the FCC to impose an "overly aggressive buildout" of Dish's planned mobile network. In a recent filing to the Commission, the satco countered this request for "LightSquared-like" requirements, defining its operation as a strictly retail endeavor, one that faces entirely different hurdles than that of its wholesale competitor. If granted, however, these conditions could see the fledgling network rushed to the marketplace before the completion of an LTE-Advanced standard and widespread availability of compatible devices -- both key elements of the MVPD's service strategy. The company also goes on to contest interference issues surrounding its 700MHz holdings, stating that it has no current plans to repurpose the spectrum for mobile broadband use, despite AT&T's claims to that effect. We'll keep you posted as this wireless battle plays out. In the meantime, hit up the source below to peruse the dense legalese.AT&T seeks to impose conditions on Dish LTE network, FCC to settle wireless squabble originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 18:44:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink height=150 dailywireless, FierceWireless | height=150 FCC | Email this | Comments
- WiFi Kindle Touch gets its passport, now available internationally
height=150 Ever since Amazon unveiled its cheap-as-chips Kindle Touch, the thing's been selling like mad here in the US. However, our friends on other continents haven't been able to enjoy swiping and tapping its multitouch E Ink display -- until now, that is. Amazon failed to alert the masses with a press release, but a quick gander at the WiFi Touch's product page shows there's an option to ship one just about anywhere on the globe. Unfortunately, people in parts of the world with country-specific Amazon portals like Germany, France and the UK must still settle for the button-dependent Kindle 4. We're glad to see Bezos broadening his touchscreen e-reader's horizons, but let's not keep our friends across the pond Kindle Touch-free for much longer, OK?WiFi Kindle Touch gets its passport, now available internationally originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 18:21:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink height=150 The eBook Reader | height=150 Amazon | Email this | Comments
- FCC Fridays: February 3, 2012
height=150 We here at Engadget tend to spend a lot of way too much time poring over the latest FCC filings, be it on the net or directly on the ol' Federal Communications Commission's site. Since we couldn't possibly (want to) cover all the stuff that goes down there individually, we've gathered up an exhaustive listing of every phone and / or tablet getting the stamp of approval over the last week. Enjoy! FCC Fridays: February 3, 2012 originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | | Email this | Comments
- Xbox co-creator brings together Atari 'dream team' for mobile gaming startup
height=150 A new mobile gaming startup that's yet to release a single game isn't the sort of thing we'd normally cover 'round here, but the story behind Los Angeles-based Innovative Leisure is anything but ordinary. The man behind the company is the co-creator of the Xbox, Seamus Blackley, and he's brought with him eleven industry veterans that he calls "the dream team from Atari," including the likes of Van Burnham, Ed Logg, Rich Adam, Tim Skelly, Owen Rubin, and Ed Rotberg. While those names may not be familiar to everyone, you'll surely recognize some of the games they were responsible for: Asteroids, Centipede, Gauntlet, Missile Command, Battlezone, S.T.U.N. Runner, Major Havoc and Space Duel, to name a few.
Speaking with VentureBeat, Blackley describes mobile devices as "the new arcade" and 99 cent games as the "new quarter," adding that he's aiming to carry on where Atari left off, "focusing on innovation in gameplay." To help with that, the company has secured backing from THQ, which has reportedly agreed to an initial slate of ten games, seven of which are now in development (with only the iPhone and iPad mentioned as supported platforms so far). Unfortunately, details remain light beyond that, with Blackley only offering late summer or fall as an estimated release date for the first titles. In the meantime, you can find more of the backstory at the links below (THQ's press release can also be found after the break). Xbox co-creator brings together Atari 'dream team' for mobile gaming startup originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 17:38:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | height=150 VentureBeat | Email this | Comments
- Galaxy Nexus and other CDMA devices removed from Google Support pages
height=150 Some of you may have noticed that the Verizon version of the Galaxy Nexus is no longer listed as a supported, official developer device by Google. Despite rumors to the contrary, it doesn't appear this has anything to do with the kerfuffle over Wallet, but instead centers around technical issues relating to the APK files required for CDMA connectivity and the signing of those libraries. Other devices have also disappeared from the support pages, including the Nexus S 4G and the Verizon-branded Xoom. Google has posted an update explaining that, "for various technical reasons" CDMA telephony is handled by binaries provided by the carrier in newer devices. The result is different signatures being associated with those APKs than a pure AOSP builds and, thus, those essential components don't function properly.
Google explained the disappearance by saying "we aim to make sure that we are as clear as possible about the degree of support that devices have," before going on to promise all Nexus devices would continue to have unlockable bootloaders and that as many of the closed-source binaries as possible would be made available. For the complete statement hit up the source link.Galaxy Nexus and other CDMA devices removed from Google Support pages originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 17:16:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | height=150 Android Contributors (Google Groups) | Email this | Comments
- Verizon's ZTE Jetpack flies through FCC, arrival time still unknown
height=150 Do you wish you had your own personal Jetpack? Well, you may not have to wait much longer for ZTE's version -- the EuFi I890, announced at CES last month -- to come out, if its entry into the records of the FCC are any indication. It may not be the kind that you strap onto your back, but at least this one takes advantage of Verizon's LTE, and it happens to add in CDMA / EVDO and AT&T-compatible 3G radios. We knew the 4G-packing MiFi was going to hit stores in "the coming weeks," so this is essentially just one step closer to achieving that goal -- unfortunately, we still don't have a solid date yet. Hit the source link if you're into digging through government documents.Verizon's ZTE Jetpack flies through FCC, arrival time still unknown originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 17:01:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | height=150 FCC | Email this | Comments
- All PlayBooks go to heaven: Telus leak points to end-of-life status
height=150 This is the end, dear PlayBook-admiring friends. That is to say, it's the end-of-life for RIM's first unsuccessful stab at tablet computing. Unsurprisingly, the marketing blitzkrieg that saw J.Lo and the Flash Gordon theme awkwardly peddle the flailing tab hasn't done much to elevate sales or consumer interest, forcing its Canadian overlords to issue Telus an EOL notice. This not unexpected bit of news comes right on the heels of the BB maker's recently leaked device roadmap, in which a spring bow for a higher-specced, 3G+ enabled iteration is clearly denoted. Whatever Waterloo's near future plans for the category are, we know for sure they won't include BB 10 until much later this year. Chin up though, folks. At least we have OS 2.0 to soothe our fraught nerves in the interim.
[Thanks, Jaimie] All PlayBooks go to heaven: Telus leak points to end-of-life status originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 16:39:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | height=150 MobileSyrup | Email this | Comments
- Steve Appleton, CEO of Micron, dies in plane crash at 51
height=150 Sad news to report this Friday. Steve Appleton, the CEO and Chairman of Micron, died this morning in an airplane crash shortly after takeoff from the Boise, Idaho airport. He was the only one aboard, and was piloting a fixed wing, single engine kit aircraft. Appleton started working at Micron in 1983 shortly after graduating from Boise State University, first working the production line and eventually rising through the ranks to become the company's COO in 1991. He took the reins of Micron in 1994. The plane crash wasn't Appleton's first. In 2004, he and a flying partner walked away from an accident, having sustained only scrapes and bruises. He later commented on his life's passions, which included aircraft aerobatics, "I'm very fortunate, lucky to be able to experience the kinds of things that I do. If my life were to end tomorrow, I've had a full life." Steve Appleton leaves behind a wife and four children. Comments from Micron's Board of Directors, as well as Boise's mayor, Dave Bieter, can be found after the break.
[Thanks, Fazzitron] Steve Appleton, CEO of Micron, dies in plane crash at 51 originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 16:18:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | height=150 KTVB, KBOI | Email this | Comments
- Listen to the Engadget Mobile Podcast, live at 5PM ET!
height=150 Myriam Joire, Brad Molen, Joseph Volpe and Dante Cesa are all armed with mics this week, and they're ready to use and abuse them. While the podcast could go any direction, we promise one thing: we won't be talking about RIM for a full hour and twenty minutes this week. However, we've heard that Joseph has a very interesting story to tell. Are you on pins and needles? Us too. Join us at the same bat time, same bat channel (that's 5PM ET, and the chat room's under the break) for this week's mobile news!
February 3, 2012 5:00 PM ESTListen to the Engadget Mobile Podcast, live at 5PM ET! originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | | Email this | Comments
- Airport Utility 6.0 flies right into the iCloud, leaves old AirPorts behind
height=150 The latest version of Apple's Airport Utility software has arrived, alongside those iCloud-supporting firmware updates for the company's network hardware, including the AirPort Extreme, the AirPort Express and Time Capsule. Unfortunately, Airport Utility 6.0 doesn't support pre-2007 models, that is; 802.11g-only devices. As we already know, iCloud support requires the new release, running on OSX Lion and if you're still clinging onto your MobileMe account, we've got more bad news -- this won't work with the new software either. Fortunately, you'll still be able to configure (firmware-updated) older models with previous AirPort Utility versions. TidBITS has gone into fine detail on compatibility changes, so be sure to check the source if there's any niggling doubts. Airport Utility 6.0 flies right into the iCloud, leaves old AirPorts behind originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 15:37:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink height=150 TidBITS | height=150 Apple | Email this | Comments
- Yahoo unveils app search page for Android and iOS, because we need it
height=150 Yahoo may be sliding down the search engine totem pole, but the company is doing its best to climb back up, with a new space dedicated to apps. This week, Yahoo added a new "Apps" tab to its search page, giving users a new portal into both the Android Market and iTunes App Store. Results can be filtered by both price and category, with iOS and Android apps aligned in separate tabs. Once you select an app, you can download it by scanning a QR code, sending a download link to your handset, or by simply clicking through to iTunes or the Android Market. There's also a "trending now" interface, as well as a full list of Yahoo user reviews, displayed directly within the page. Check it out for yourself, at the source link below. Yahoo unveils app search page for Android and iOS, because we need it originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 15:16:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink height=150 Android Central | height=150 Yahoo | Email this | Comments
- HP feels the heat, recalls 1040 and 1050 fax machines
height=150 Hey, office workers -- listen up. You know that cheap, god-forsaken fax machine that you've come to loathe something fierce? Well, if it's an HP unit, go ahead and peep the model number on the front -- don't worry, we'll wait. If it says either 1040 or 1050, in addition to being a pain in the ass to operate (like all fax machines are), there's also a small chance the cursed thing could catch on fire. Of the 1.1 million units sold between 2004 and 2011, only seven documented cases have (literally) gone up in flames, but the risk has instigated a voluntary recall for both models. If you're among the affected owners, go ahead and unplug the machine from its power source, then give HP a call at (888) 654-9296 to get a rebate. Also, be forewarned that while it's illegal to sell a recalled product, we've found scads of these units currently for sale on eBay. Like the previously recalled HP products, that's one smokin' hot deal we're inclined to skip.HP feels the heat, recalls 1040 and 1050 fax machines originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 14:53:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink height=150 The Verge | height=150 CPSC | Email this | Comments
- Canalys: More smartphones than PCs shipped in 2011
height=150 2011: the year Smartphones supplanted computers, at least according to the bundle of spreadsheets that just arrived from Canalys Research. Vendors shipped (shipped, not sold) 488 million of the devices, compared to 414.6 million "PCs," which erroneously includes Tablet PCs of all shapes and sizes. Looking at Smartphones exclusively (IDC's numbers from yesterday concerned all mobile handsets), Apple remains king of the hill having shipped 93.1million iPhones. Samsung is close behind, with 91.9 million and Nokia is kicking along in third with 19.6 million. For all of the doomsaying around RIM, it's nestled in fourth, although Canalys chose not to include its numbers. Framing the research as "PCs versus Smartphones" isn't the wisest, given the fragmentation and hybridization prevalent in the market today. Drilling down into those numbers, we learn that 63.2 million tablets were pushed out last year, cannibalizing netbook shipments (dropping 34.5 percent in a year), but desktop and laptop movements remained relatively stable. We've included the full report and the most relevant table of data for your perusal and insight (hint: there's no points for saying netbooks are on the way out). Canalys: More smartphones than PCs shipped in 2011 originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 14:02:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | | Email this | Comments
- Creative pumps out $99 HN-900 noise-canceling headphones
height=150 Fact: not everyone's willing to pay a premium to enhance their personal listening experience. Fortunately for those of you who like noise cancellation and a flush bank account, Creative's just taken the wraps off its $99 headset that'll do the trick. The HN-900 offers great features -- aside from the low price tag -- such as 40-hours of active noise canceling powered by some AAA juice (for the times when you feel like ignoring the world), 40mm Neodymium drivers, and a built-in microphone to help with making and answering calls, just to highlight a few. Naturally, with such a stout feature set and low price, the headphones are selling like hotcakes and are currently out of stock. That said, you can still head over to the source to check out the rest of the deets and be one of the first in line once the second batch hits Creative's virtual shelves.Creative pumps out $99 HN-900 noise-canceling headphones originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 13:12:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink height=150 CNET | height=150 Creative | Email this | Comments
- Nokia Hello: breaks down borders, gets the drinks in
height=150 Ever wanted to order a tea and coffee, but found language to be a barrier? Then say bonjour, to Nokia Hello. Making creative use of NFC, Nokia Hello users can touch phones to exchange greetings, pleasantries, as well as the aforementioned beverage order. Mild joking aside, the project has been developed to ease those awkward international business interactions, which the team behind it somewhat ambitiously claim could be eliminated as soon as 2015. We're not sure how loud Nokia employees are but Dr Marcus Redströmm PhD, who led the project, thinks it can also cut their noise pollution by up to 85 percent. It's still awaiting final testing, but it'll be free once released -- just be sure to touch back to say kiitos.Nokia Hello: breaks down borders, gets the drinks in originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 12:46:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | height=150 Nokia Conversations | Email this | Comments
- Distro Issue 26: Smartwatch face-off, Ryan Block and more
height=150 Are you ready for a showdown? You're in luck! In the latest edition of our fine weekly, Myriam Joire tackles wrist-top computing, comparing the inPulse and WIMM One smartwatches. Also in this issue, Zachary Lutz takes the BlackBerry Curve 9360 for a spin; Dana Wollman puts HP's latest Envy 15 through the paces; and Joe Pollicino tries to keep Klipsch's Mode M40 headphones in place. If that wasn't enough to pique your interest, our former editor-in-chief, Ryan Block, returns to take on the Distro Q&A and Box Brown offers a comic look at becoming an iBooks Author. So go on and get to downloading!
Distro APK (for sideloading) Distro Issue 26: Smartwatch face-off, Ryan Block and more originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 11:30:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | height=150 iTunes, Android Market | Email this | Comments
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