Fujitsu prototype GPS cane hands-on: the future of monitoring and protecting the elderly

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><hr dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" /><div class="image-container" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Fujitsu prototype GPS cane" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/02/mwc2013fujitsugpscanemain.jpg" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Fujitsu's Stylistic S01 isn't the company's only attempt to cater to an older audience. It's also experimenting with a rather ingenius (and super glossy) take on the classic cane, that looks like something out of a sci-fi film. Inside the two-toned elliptical head-piece are a pile of electronics, including Bluetooth, GPS, WiFi and a cellular radio. And at the front of the grip is a small display, consisting of an array of multi-color LEDs. Those little bulbs light up, primarily in red or green, to communicate through simple pictographs. The primary function is to offer directions using the GPS. The LEDs tell you which way to head with simple green arrow animations and alert you to upcoming turns by flashing a red exclamation point. While we understand and appreciate the simplicity, the combination of relatively dim LEDs and the glossy design made it a bit difficult to make out direction under the harsh lights of the Fujitsu booth -- we can only imagine things would only get worse under a glaring mid-day sun.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">This isn't just a dumbed-down guidance device, however. The GPS can also be used to track movement, while other sensors on board can monitor temperature, humidity and heart rate. There's a small pad at the top where you place your thumb to get a BPM readout. Should the heat get cranking and grandpa's heart rate start to climb, a loved one could set a destination for him remotely and lead him to the nearest place to cool off. Fujitsu reps said the current prototype is capable of lasting between two or three hours on a charge, though we imagine much longer battery life will be needed for it to become a practical, everyday solution. There's no telling if or when this futuristic walking stick will hit the market, but we wouldn't be surprised to see some form of it in the next year or two. Technology moves quick and the healthcare industry is one of the quickest growing markets for the cutting edge. If you'd like a glimpse of how the system might work, check out the video after the break.</div></div><iframe frameborder="0" height="349" id="viddler-4eb9c6b1" mozallowfullscreen="true" src="//www.viddler.com/embed/4eb9c6b1/?f=1&offset=0&autoplay=0&secret=11771436&disablebranding=0&view_secret=11771436" webkitallowfullscreen="true" width="545"></iframe></div>

Fujitsu prototype GPS cane hands-on: the future of monitoring and protecting the elderly

Fujitsu's Stylistic S01 isn't the company's only attempt to cater to an older audience. It's also experimenting with a rat...

مزيد من المعلومات »

ASUS FonePad official: 7-inch tablet with phone functionality, priced at $249 (hands-on)

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><hr dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" /><div class="image-container" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="ASUS FonePad official 7inch tablet with phone functionality, priced at $249 for 16GB handson" data-src-height="533" data-src-width="800" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/02/img9041800-1361800437.jpg" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">We already knew ASUS was prepping a product called the FonePad, a 7-inch tablet with built-in phone functionality (yes, just like the new Samsung Galaxy Note 8.0). Well, ASUS just formally unveiled it here at Mobile World Congress, which means we've got a few more details to share than we did previously. First off, the speculation about its specs was all true: this does indeed have an Intel processor -- a 1.2GHz Atom Z2420, to be exact -- along with 1GB of RAM, a PowerVR SGX540 GPU, Android 4.1 Jelly Bean and an HSPA+ radio. What's more, the 4,270mAH battery is said to get up to nine hours of runtime, which would put this in the same league as other Atom tablets we've tested recently.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">In terms of hardware features, the FonePad has a smooth metal back (available in gray and gold), making it drastically different in appearance from the similarly sized Nexus 7. 'Round back you'll find a panel where all the usual antennae are, and hidden underneath are both the micro-SIM slot and the microSD reader. That microSD slot, by the way, supports 32GB cards, which should come in handy considering this has just 16GB of built-in storage. Additionally, the tablet has a 1.2-megapixel front camera, attached to a 7-inch, 1,280 x 800 IPS display. </div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">The FonePad will be available in Europe for £179 / €219. Here at MWC, ASUS also confirmed a US dollar price of $249, though we had heard rumblings it wouldn't actually be sold there. It arrives in March, but the specific on-sale date hasn't been revealed yet. We're hoping to test one ourselves soon enough, but until then, stay tuned for the usual round of hands-on shots.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b>Update: </b>Our hands-on photos and video are in! Enjoy!</div></div><iframe frameborder="0" height="349" id="viddler-d1c01ab7" mozallowfullscreen="true" src="//www.viddler.com/embed/d1c01ab7/?f=1&offset=0&autoplay=0&secret=16094601&disablebranding=0&view_secret=16094601" webkitallowfullscreen="true" width="545"></iframe></div>

ASUS FonePad official: 7-inch tablet with phone functionality, priced at $249 (hands-on)

We already knew ASUS was prepping a product called the FonePad, a 7-inch tablet with built-in phone functionality (yes, just like the new Sa...

مزيد من المعلومات »

ZTE Grand Memo hands-on: a Galaxy Note competitor without a stylus (video)

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><hr dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" /><div class="image-container" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="ZTE Grand Memo handson a Galaxy Note competitor without a stylus video" data-src-height="340" data-src-width="620" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/02/grandmemo-1361797563-1361797586.jpg" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Nothing's changed since last we saw ZTE's Grand Memo in Hong Kong last January. But the Chinese OEM's trotting it out once again at MWC 2013 here in Barcelona, reintroducing the palm-stretching device for the global press. From the name alone, it's clear that ZTE's angling this tabletphone (sorry, no stylus included) at Samsung's successful Note line; a competition that's already been won by the recently unveiled and incredibly massive Note 8. The Grand Memo's specs have remained the same -- 5.7-inch 720p TFT display, quad-core 1.7GHz Snapdragon S4 Pro, 1GB RAM, Android 4.1.2 and 13-megapixel rear camera module -- but now we have an English-language demo to walk you through it. So check out the video tour after the break and stay tuned for our live coverage of ZTE's press event.</div></div><iframe frameborder="0" height="349" id="viddler-46ad2910" mozallowfullscreen="true" src="//www.viddler.com/embed/46ad2910/?f=1&offset=0&autoplay=0&secret=31764813&disablebranding=0&view_secret=31764813" webkitallowfullscreen="true" width="545"></iframe></div>

ZTE Grand Memo hands-on: a Galaxy Note competitor without a stylus (video)

Nothing's changed since last we saw ZTE's Grand Memo in Hong Kong last January. But the Chinese OEM's trotting it out once agai...

مزيد من المعلومات »

Sony shipping NEX-3N and Alpha A58 to the US in April

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><hr dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" /> <div class="image-container" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="Sony shipping NEX3N and Alpha A58 to the US in April " data-src-height="340" data-src-width="620" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/02/sony-nex-3n-white.jpg" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> Sony may have teased American photographers by launching the NEX-3N and Alpha A58 in Europe, but it's not cruel: both interchangeable lens cameras are coming to the US this April. The NEX-3N will cost a relatively frugal $500 when bundled with the camera's signature motorized, 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 lens. Venturing into DSLR territory with the Alpha A58 will cost an only somewhat dearer $600 when paired with a refreshed 18-55mm, f/3.5-5.6 kit lens that's quieter and less error-prone than its ancestor.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> Both A- and E-mount cameras will also be getting a similar raft of accessories for the US unveiling. An RM-VPR1 remote commander comes in April for $65, while a compact HVL-F20M flash is due in May for $150. A-series photographers will have no shortage of lenses to choose from -- they'll get cracks at both a stand-alone version of the 18-55mm lens and a new 50mm f/1.4 prime in May for respective prices of $220 and $1,500, while a 70-400mm f/4-5.6 telephoto zoom is coming in July for an eye-watering $2,200.</div><div class="open" dir="ltr" id="pr_box" style="text-align: left;"> <div id="pr_box_button">Hide Press Release</div><div id="pr_text"> <em><strong>Sony Introduces the α NEX-3N: The World's Smallest and Lightest Interchangeable Lens Camera with an APS-C Size Sensor</strong></em><br /> <em>Stylish New Camera Features Advanced 16.1 MP APS-C Sensor, Fingertip Zoom Control, New Auto Object Framing and more</em><br /> <em>SAN DIEGO, Feb. 25, 2013 – Sony's new α NEX-3N digital camera delivers professional quality photos and Full HD videos in an ultra-compact body weighing in at just under 7.5 ounces, making it the world's smallest and lightest interchangeable lens camera with an APS-C size sensor*.</em><br /> <em>The new NEX-3N camera will be offered as a kit with the sharp, compact SELP1650 motorized zoom lens, offering the ultimate package of portability and performance in a compact system camera. The camera features a newly added zoom lever on top of the body, allowing for smooth fingertip control of lens focal length. The lever can also adjust digital zoom on the camera if a powered zoom lens (SELP1650 or SELP18200) is not being used.<br /> <br /> The powerful, 16.1 effective megapixel APS HD CMOS sensor in the new NEX-3N camera is identical in size to those found in traditional DSLR cameras. Its large surface area takes in more light during image capture, allowing the camera to produce flawless, low-noise photographs with blurred backgrounds and highly detailed full HD videos (60i/24p). It also boosts maximum camera sensitivity to ISO16000, resulting in exceptional low-light shooting performance.<br /> <br /> "The new NEX-3N is the ideal camera to introduce consumers to the creative world of interchangeable lens photography, offering new levels of performance and convenience never before realized in a mirrorless model," said Mike Kahn, director of the Alpha business at Sony. "By pairing the camera with our retractable SELP1650 lens, loading it up with a host of our newest, most advanced technologies and offering it at a great price point, we've created a palm-sized powerhouse that promises outstanding value for our customers."</em><br /> <em>The NEX-3N camera debuts new Auto Object Framing technology, which allows shooters to create professionally framed photos with each composition. This innovative feature identifies the main object of the framed scene – whether it's one person, two people or even macro and moving subjects – and then automatically trims the scene around the object to create a professionally-styled composition. The cropped photo is then boosted to full resolution using Sony's unique By Pixel Super Resolution technology, which uses pattern matching to maintain superb image detail, tones and textures. Both the original and cropped image files are saved for review.<br /> <br /> Additionally, the NEX-3N model is built with an evolved BIONZ processor that utilizes the same area-specific noise reduction technology featured on Sony's acclaimed full-frame α99 camera. The high-power processor individually adjusts level of noise reduction and sharpness in different imaging areas, assuring crisp, ultra-low noise handheld shots in all types of lighting situations without loss of detail.</em><br /> <em>The NEX-3N is also the first E-mount interchangeable lens camera from Sony that offers support for new "TRILUMINOS Color". This allows consumers to experience a dramatically expanded palette of vivid, ultra-realistic colors when videos and still images from the camera are played back on any BRAVIA TV with support for "TRILUMINOS Display".</em><br /> <em>Other convenient essentials include a crisp, bright, 7.5cm (3.0-type) LCD screen that flips 180 degrees for hassle-free self-portraits, as well as a new, easy-to-hold textured grip.</em><br /> <em>Shooters can now choose from a range of 13 high-quality E-mount lenses available for use with the NEX-3N camera to realize its full creative potential. The line-up includes a variety of telephoto, zoom, wide angle, and macro lenses manufactured by both Sony and Carl Zeiss® to suit any shooting situation. Each model blends superb optical performance with elegant styling to complement the E-mount camera line.</em><br /> <em>Pricing and Availability</em><br /> <em>The new NEX-3N compact digital camera will be available this April in black and white in a kit with the motorized 16-50mm zoom lens (model SELP1650) for about $500.</em><br /> <em>The camera kit and a range of compatible E-mount lenses and accessories including the LCS-SB1 sling bag will be available at Sony retail stores (www.store.sony.com) and other authorized dealers nationwide.</em><br /> <strong><em>Sony Introduces Speedy α58 Digital SLT Camera Featuring New 20.1 MP APS-C Sensor Powered by Translucent Mirror Technology</em></strong><br /> <em>Exciting New DSLT Model Features OLED Viewfinder, up to 8 fps shooting, Auto Object Framing and more</em><br /> <em>SAN DIEGO, Feb. 25, 2013 – Lightweight, easy to use and packed with a variety of powerful imaging capabilities, the new Sony SLT-A58 camera is an ideal choice for consumers eager to explore the world of DSLR-style interchangeable lens photography.</em><br /> <em>The new α58 camera is the latest to feature Sony's acclaimed Translucent Mirror Technology, which delivers a potent combination of fast shooting, non-stop phase detection autofocus and continuous live image preview during still and full HD video (60i/24p) shooting. This innovative technology also allows the camera to shoot sharply focused images at up to eight frames per second (in Tele-Zoom High Speed Shooting Mode), ensuring that every important detail of any precious moment is fully captured.</em><br /> <em>At the heart of the new α58 camera is a brand new, highly advanced 20.1 (approx.) effective megapixel Exmor APS HD CMOS sensor teamed with an improved BIONZ image processing engine, which individually adjusts levels of noise reduction and sharpness in different imaging areas. This powerful combination of sensor and processor gives the camera an extra-wide sensitivity range of ISO 100 to 16000, and ensures that it can produce exceptionally detailed, low-noise still images and full HD videos in all types of lighting conditions.</em><br /> <em>"With the new α58 model, we are bringing unparalleled levels of performance, speed and design to the world of affordable-class DSLR cameras," said Mike Kahn, director of the Alpha business at Sony. "Featuring our innovative Translucent Mirror Technology, a brand new, high-resolution image sensor and a variety of new, convenient technologies all packaged at a great price, it is perfect for consumers looking to upgrade from the world of point-and-shoot cameras or replace an older DSLR."</em><br /> <em>To improve the framing, focusing and image playback experience, the α58 camera features a bright new OLED Tru-Finder electronic viewfinder. Using the EVF, shooters can instantly see the result of adjusting exposure compensation, aperture, ISO, white balance, Picture Effect and other parameters while they are composing - not afterwards. It's a great teaching and learning tool, and a huge help for framing and creating that "perfect shot" with full confidence.<br /> <br /> To complement its high-speed shooting capabilities, the α58 camera has a high-performance 15-point AF system that features new Lock-on Autofocus technology for speedier, more accurate subject tracking. This makes it easier for shooters to focus on and capture fast moving subjects like birds in flight, kids playing sports and virtually everything in between.</em><br /> <em>The new α58 also introduces new Auto Object Framing technology, an evolution of the innovative Auto Portrait Framing feature introduced last year in Sony's lineup of interchangeable lens cameras. With Auto Object Framing, the α58 camera judges what's in the scene – one person, two people, even moving objects or macro subjects – tracking, framing and cropping the shot to create powerful, professionally-framed compositions. Cropped photos are boosted back to full resolution using Sony's unique By Pixel Super Resolution technology, and both the original and re-composed image files are saved for review.</em><br /> <em>Additionally, the new camera features a total of 15 artistic 'in-camera' Picture Effect treatments including Toy Camera, Mono and Partial Color and much more, all of which can be accessed instantly from the mode dial.</em><br /> <em>The α58 model is Sony's first A-mount interchangeable lens camera that offers support for new TRILUMINOS Color, which allows consumers to experience an expanded palette of colors when content from the camera is played back on any BRAVIA TV that supports TRILUMINOS Display.<br /> <br /> The Sony A-mount camera system now features a total of 35 interchangeable lenses - including several Carl Zeiss® and G-series optics - that offer the ultimate in performance, sharpness and clarity.</em><br /> <em>Pricing and Availability</em><br /> <em>The α58 digital camera will be available as a kit with a brand new 18-55mm zoom lens (model SEL18552) this April for about $600 at Sony retail stores (www.store.sony.com) and other authorized dealers nationwide.</em><br /> <strong><em>Sony Adds Three New-Generation A-Mount Lenses to α Interchangeable Lens Camera System</em></strong><br /> <em>Sharp New Lenses include Full Frame 70-400mm G Telephoto Zoom, Full Frame 50mm F1.4 Carl Zeiss Prime and DT 18-55mm Standard Zoom</em><br /> <em>SAN DIEGO, Jan. 22, 2013 – Sony is extending the range of its α A-mount interchangeable lens camera system with the introduction of three new lenses designed to fit the needs of the most demanding photo enthusiasts and professionals.</em><br /> <em>New models include the 70-400mm F4-5.6 G SSM II and Carl Zeiss Planar T* 50mm F1.4 ZA SSM lenses, designed to complement the impressive imaging capabilities of Sony's full-frame α99 SLT (Translucent Mirror) camera. Additionally, the DT 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 SAM II lens is a light, compact 3x zoom that's an ideal partner for all A-mount cameras with APS-C size sensors.</em><br /> <em>New 70-400mm F4-5.6 G SSM II telephoto zoom (model SAL70400G2)</em><br /> <em>Ideal for capturing wildlife and action-packed sports, the new, upgraded 70-400mm F4-5.6 G SSM II super-telephoto zoom lens builds on the premium performance of its predecessor with enhanced optics and faster, more responsive autofocus. The lens features a new LSI drive circuit and faster AF responsiveness, making the ultimate choice for capturing crisp, sharply focused still images and Full HD videos of fast moving subjects.</em><br /> <em>The new-generation SAL70400G2 lens also features Sony's proprietary Nano AR Coating on its optical surface. Offering around five times the efficiency of conventional anti-reflection coatings, it reduces flare and ghosting for exceptionally high-contrast images.</em><br /> <em>New Carl Zeiss Planar T* 50mm F1.4 ZA SSM (model SALF0F14Z)</em><br /> <em>The new Planar T* 50mm F1.4 ZA SSM prime lens joins the existing Distagon 24mm, Planar 85mm and Sonnar 135mm in Sony's A-mount range of prime length optics by Carl Zeiss. With a fixed 50mm focal length and extra-bright F1.4 aperture, the premium lens is an ideal choice for professional-quality portraiture and low-light shooting.</em><br /> <em>Featuring eight lens elements in five groups with two aspherical elements, the brand new optical design on the SAL50F14Z lens is optimized for use with Sony's full-frame α99 camera. The lens maintains exceptional resolving power and contrast at all apertures, and utilizes a rear-focus system to focus smoothly, quietly and effectively. It is also dust- and moisture-resistant, extending the appeal to a wide range of outdoor shooting applications.</em><br /> <em>New DT 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 SAM II zoom lens (model SAL18552)</em><br /> <em>With second-generation styling, the new SEL18552 lens succeeds the popular DT 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 SAM that was introduced in 2011. The light, compact 3x zoom lens maintains the same smooth AF motor (SAM) as its predecessor with a quieter AF drive, ideal for continuous AF during video capture. It also features newly-designed rear lens elements that reduce flare and ghosting, and upgraded mechanical elements for more comfortable operation.<br /> <br /> New Accessories for Sony Cameras and Camcorders</em><br /> <em>Sony has also introduced two new accessories compatible with a growing range of α A-mount and E-mount, Cyber-shot™ and Handycam® models.</em><br /> <em>The new HVL-F20M external flash, a new space-saving on-camera flash compatible with all Multi Interface Shoe mounted cameras (includes relevant A-mount, E-mount and Cyber-shot models) is ideal for brightening up portraits, interiors and dimly-lit scenes. Despite its compact size, the new flash is packed with several pro-style features including wireless control, simple bounce operation and Auto White Balance compensation for more accurate, natural-looking white balance. The flash can also be turned on and off easily either by raising or lowering the flash head.</em><br /> <em>The new RM-VPR1 wired remote commander features convenient controls for zoom (with relevant models) and video recording start/stop, and includes a shutter lock function that's ideal for long-exposure 'bulb' shooting with α cameras.</em><br /> <em>Pricing and Availability</em><br /> <em>The new SAL70400G2 telephoto zoom lens will be available this July for about $2200. The SAL50F14Z prime lens and SAL18552 zoom lens will be available this May for about $1500 and $220 respectively.</em><br /> <em>The HVL-F20M compact flash will be available this May for about $150, and the RM-VPR1 wired remote commander will be available this April for about $65.</em><br /> <em>The Sony α family of cameras, camcorders, lenses and accessories can be purchased at Sony retail stores, online at www.store.sony.com and at all other authorized retailers throughout the Sony dealer network.</em><br /> </div></div></div>

Sony shipping NEX-3N and Alpha A58 to the US in April

Sony may have teased American photographers by launching the NEX-3N and Alpha A58 in Europe, but it...

مزيد من المعلومات »

Sony brings Cyber-shot HX300, WX300 and TX30 to the US with fast autofocus

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><hr dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" /> <div class="image-container" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="Sony brings Cybershot HX300, WX300 and TX30 to the US with fast autofocus" data-src-height="340" data-src-width="620" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/02/sony-hx300.jpg" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> Sony refreshed many of its mainstream Cyber-shot cameras at CES. Now that we're on the cusp of spring, the company is giving equal love to a trio of more specialized shooters arriving in the US. The 20.4-megapixel Cyber-shot HX300 superzoom easily bests its HX200V ancestor in the optics department with a 50X, 24-1,200mm equivalent lens that sports better stabilization, but the real allure is its autofocus speed: it can lock in twice as quickly at telephoto distances, giving us more reason to use all that extra reach. The WX300 compact zoom isn't quite as alluring on paper with its 18.2-megapixel sensor and 20X (25-50mm equivalent) lens, although it carries autofocus about 3.6 times speedier than the old HX30 while stuffing in WiFi for simpler photo sharing.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> These two are joined by the TX30, an all-around improvement for last year's waterproof TX20 camera. While there isn't quite a revolution on the outside, the TX30 can survive twice the depth at 33 feet, carries a longer-zoomed 5X (26-130mm) lens and bumps the resolution to 18.2 megapixels. Both the TX30 and the HX300 will come first, hitting American shops in March at respective $350 and $500 prices. The WX300 will miss March break with its April release, but it will be the cheapest of the pack at $330. </div></div>

Sony brings Cyber-shot HX300, WX300 and TX30 to the US with fast autofocus

Sony refreshed many of its mainstream Cyber-shot cameras at CES. Now that we're on the cusp of s...

مزيد من المعلومات »

ASUS PadFone Infinity announced: 5-inch, 1080p screen, Snapdragon 600 CPU and full HD tablet display (hands-on)

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><hr dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" /> <div class="image-container" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="ASUS PadFone Infinity announced 5inch, 1080p display, Snapdragon 600 CPU and full HD tablet display handson" data-src-height="411" data-src-width="620" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/02/lead2.jpg" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> You may have heard a new PadFone was on the way -- it's not like ASUS has been dropping obvious hints or anything. In any case, surprise! ASUS just unveiled a new model, the PadFone Infinity. Like other PadFones, this is a handset that slips into a tablet-like dock, allowing you to make use of a bigger screen. This time, though, it ships with Android 4.2, and the display has grown from 4.7 inches to 5. The resolution is now 1080p (up from 720p), which comes out to 441 pixels per inch. Additionally, the <span>tablet's 10.1-inch screen has a resolution of 1,920 x 1,200, up from 1,280 x 800 in the last-gen model. It's plenty bright, too, at 400 nits, but that's a slight step down from the last-gen model, which lit up to 500 nits. </span></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> <span>What's more, the phone's gotten an upgrade on the inside: it now packs a quad-core, 1.7GHz Snapdragon 600 chip with an Adreno 320 GPU, some of the freshest components Qualcomm has to offer at the moment. Also on-board, you get 2GB of RAM to help boost performance, with your choice of either 32GB or 64GB of built-in storage. As far as connectivity, you're looking at </span><span>EDGE, GPRS, GSM, </span><span>WCDMA, </span><span>LTE and </span><span>DC-HSPA+, along with all the usual radios: WiFi, Bluetooth 4.0, NFC, A-GPS and even GLONASS. According to an ASUS rep, the device uses a nano-SIM rather than micro-SIM. Around back, ASUS has added a 13-megapixel autofocusing camera with an LED flash, five-element, f/2.0 lens and burst shooting at eight fps. There's a front camera too, capped at 2MP, in case you want to do the occasional video chat. Meanwhile, the 2,400mAh battery promises up to 19 hours of 3G talk time, and up to 40 with the dock attached. </span></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> <span>Like every other PadFone that's been released, this won't be available in the US, but the phone-and-dock combo will cost £799 / </span><span>€999</span><span> when it goes on sale in Europe this April. </span><span>The phone is also headed to Asia, though we don't have any more details.</span><span> You'll also have your choice of colors, we hear: gray, gold and hot pink, if that's what you're into. Check out our hands-on gallery for a closer look. </span></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> <strong>Update: </strong>Hands-on photos and video now added. You're welcome.</div></div>

ASUS PadFone Infinity announced: 5-inch, 1080p screen, Snapdragon 600 CPU and full HD tablet display (hands-on)

You may have heard a new PadFone was on the way -- it's not like ASUS has been dropping obvious h...

مزيد من المعلومات »

الأسبيرين وزيت السـمك يقيان من أمراض القلب

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"> <br /><div class="ImgArticle"> <b><img alt="" class="news-section-img" height="481" id="article_img" src="http://images.alarabiya.net/69/96/436x328_3165_268179.jpg" title="" width="640" /> </b></div><div class="ImgArticle"><b>خلصت أبحاث أجراها علماء في مستشفى "بريغهام" للنساء وكلية الطب في جامعة "هارفرد" في بريطانيا، إلى أن دمج الأسبيرين مع زيت السمك يشكل دواءً ضد العديد من أمراض القلب وغيرها من الأمراض المزمنة، كالسرطان والزهايمر والتهاب المفاصل حسبما نقلت جريدة "السفير" اللبنانية.</b><b><br />ويُشار في هذا الشأن إلى أن الأسبيرين وحمض الـ"أوميغا 3" الذي يحتويه زيت السمك، يؤثران بشكل إيجابي في مكافحة الالتهابات، إلا أن البحث الأخير كشف عن قدرتهما على "السيطرة على ردات الفعل المناعية المفرطة المرتبطة بالأمراض الطويلة الأمد"، شرط تناولهما في آن واحد.</b><b><br />ويلفت العلماء إلى أنهم اكتشفوا أن مادة الـ"أوميغا 3"، و"D3" الموجودة في الأسبيرين تظل في مواقع الالتهاب لفترات أطول، ما "قد يُظهر مزايا فريدة في مكافحة الالتهابات غير المسيطر عليها".</b><b><br />ومن شأن تفاقم الالتهابات أن يسفر عن تلف في صمامات القلب وخلايا الدماغ، ما قد يؤدي إلى السكتة الدماغية، بالإضافة إلى الحدّ من الأنسولين، الذي يؤدي بدوره إلى الإصابة بمرض السكري، وذلك علاوة على ارتباط الالتهابات بنمو الخلايا السرطانية.</b><b><br />والجدير بالذكر أن الكثيرين يلجأون إلى الأسبيرين كوقاية من الإصابة بالأزمات القلبية وبالسكتة الدماغية. </b></div></div>

الأسبيرين وزيت السـمك يقيان من أمراض القلب

  خلصت أبحاث أجراها علماء في مستشفى "بريغهام" للنساء وكلية الطب في جا...

مزيد من المعلومات »

دراسة برازيلية: الطماطم العضوية "أفضل" من مثيلتها التقليدية

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"> <br /><div class="ImgArticle"> <b><img alt="" class="news-section-img" height="480" id="article_img" src="http://images.alarabiya.net/ef/f0/436x328_39675_268156.jpg" title="" width="640" /> </b></div><div class="ImgArticle"><b> أكدت دراسة برازيلية حديثة أن الطماطم المزروعة بطريقة عضوية (الأورجانيك) تحتوي على عناصر غذائية أكثر من تلك التي تزرع بطرق تقليدية.</b><b><br />وتحتوي الطماطم العضوية بالرغم من صغر حجمها على مستويات أعلى من فيتامين (C) ومادة الفينول المضادة للأكسدة من الطماطم التي تزرع بطرق تقليدية كما قالت الدراسة التي قام بها باحثون بجامعة Ceara بالبرازيل ونشرت مؤخراً بجريدة PLOS ONE. </b><b><br />وقد أشارت الدراسة أيضاً لاختلاف الطعم بين المنتجين لاحتواء الأولى على قدر أعلى من السكر.</b><b><br />وتتناقض نتائج هذه الدراسة مع دراسة سابقة نشرت شهر سبتمبر الماضي في جريدة Annals of Internal Medicine والتي لم تجد اختلافات جوهرية بين مكونات الفيتامين في منتجات الزراعة العضوية والمحاصيل التي تزرع بطرق تقليدية.</b><b><br />إلا أن دراسة سابقة نشرت عام 2011 في جريدة Agricultural and Food Chemistry خلصت إلى أن المحاصيل العضوية تكون أعلى في مستوى فيتامين (C) ومادة الفينول وأقل في الفيتامينات عن المحاصيل التي تنتج من الزراعة التقليدية. </b><b><br />وقالت جين ليستر الباحثة بخدمات البحوث الزراعية بأمريكا معلقة على الدراسة "يرى الخبراء عدم وجود دليل كاف للتوصية بتناول الطعام المزروع بالطريقة العضوية فقط لغناه بالعناصر الغذائية". </b><b><br />وأضافت أنه على الباحثين العمل على اختبار ما إذا كان هذا الاختلاف في العناصر الغذائية بين الأطعمة العضوية أو التقليدية تترجم إلى فوائد صحية بالفعل.</b><b><br />مع ذلك يظل المستهلكون يأملون في شراء المنتجات العضوية لأسباب بيئية ولكون هذه المنتجات أقل تعرضاً لمادة الكربون ولا تحتوي على آثار للمبيدات الزراعية التي يكثر استخدامها في الزراعة التقليدية.</b><b><br />وتكون المنتجات العضوية أعلى سعراً وغالبية الناس ليسوا قادرين على شرائها.<br />وقد أكدت الأكاديمية الأمريكية لطب الأطفال على أهمية أن يحتوي النظام الغذائي للأطفال علي الكثير من الفواكه والخضروات والحبوب الكاملة ومنتجات الألبان قليلة الدسم بصرف النظر عما إذا كانت هذه الأطعمة عضوية أم لا.</b></div></div>

دراسة برازيلية: الطماطم العضوية "أفضل" من مثيلتها التقليدية

   أكدت دراسة برازيلية حديثة أن الطماطم المزروعة بطريقة عضوية (الأورجانيك) تحت...

مزيد من المعلومات »

Switched On: Moving forward with leaning back

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> <em>Each week Ross Rubin contributes Switched On, a column about consumer technology.</em></div><div class="image-container" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="DNP Switched On Moving forward with leaning back" data-src-height="412" data-src-width="620" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/02/htconehandson2-1361297526-1361568248.jpg" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> Just a few months have passed between the introduction of the Droid DNA and the new HTC One, but it seems that HTC has been turned upside down in that time. While the Droid DNA was introduced in conjunction with Verizon and can't be a wholly representative picture of how HTC might have introduced the device otherwise, it was a spec- and design-driven product -- a 5-inch, 1080p display with a 440-ppi density that appeared to spill over onto sides that included a microperforation.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> In contrast, little was said about the HTC One hardware itself until later in the device's introduction, surprising because the HTC One is not only the most attractive handset the company has ever built, but also certainly one of the most attractive on the market. While it is an Android device, the casing builds upon the tapered, Windows Phone-inspired 8X, substituting aluminum for polycarbonate. That said, there is also the spillover glass effect found on the Droid DNA. The HTC One retains the 1080p display found in the Droid DNA. However, since the screen is smaller, the pixel density is even higher (468 ppi) than in that record-breaking device.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> Key specs continue to influence the HTC One, sometimes in surprising ways. Many companies have declared the megapixel wars over through the years, but few have actually stood behind that claim by reducing resolution as HTC has with its 4-megapixel "UltraPixel" camera. Other hardware choices such as the integrated stereo speakers and dual microphones also enabled key functionality and differentiation.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> However, what provides direction for that functionality -- indeed, what HTC devoted the first half of its introduction to -- is the software experience. A theme that ran through the features was the way the One will take what is often a lean-in, 1-foot experience and imbue it with elements of a bigger-screen, lean-back experience. Examples of this included:</div><h3 dir="ltr" id="title0" style="text-align: left;"> BlinkFeed</h3><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> While HTC Sense has previously sought to be a bubble-up experience across a wide range of activities, those have now been concentrated into a Flipboard-like scrolling mélange of social- and media-driven updates. As with other content aggregators, it takes some time to set up, but once it's in place, it's time to feed at the content trough.</div><h3 dir="ltr" id="title1" style="text-align: left;"> BoomSound</h3><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> Applying amplification and Beats processing to those stereo speakers enables the One to rise above the tinny monophone of most cellphone speakers to create a tiny theater experience. You'll still probably want headphones for most listening, but there's no work to be done here. Just lean (slightly) back and enjoy.</div><h3 dir="ltr" id="title2" style="text-align: left;"> Sense TV</h3><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> Adding an infrared emitter and TV program guide to a mobile device is the kind of thing you might expect from TV vendors such as Sony and Samsung. Indeed, both have put such a port on their tablets and paired it with guides. But for HTC this is a step forward beyond the Media Link it introduced with the first One.</div><h3 dir="ltr" id="title3" style="text-align: left;"> Zoe</h3><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> "Shall I take a picture or video?" So much to think about. Not anymore. Taking advantage of the One's bigger pixels and fast processor for automatic HDR, Zoe (inspired by the "zoetrope") is a nifty photo / video combination that includes capabilities seen in Microsoft Photosynth as well as from Scalado. HTC's new photo and video experience can even automatically create highlight videos, a process that takes an extra step on the iPhone or BlackBerry Z10.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> Speaking of BlackBerry, rumors have recently swirled that Lenovo has been interested in acquiring the smartphone pioneer. The kind of personal and professional productivity optimizer that the former RIM has targeted is very much in line with Lenovo's resonant slogan, "For those who do." The HTC One, on the other hand, seems designed "for those who would rather not" -- rather not dig through separate feed apps, rather not strain to hear a music video, rather not even pick up a separate remote control. And that's OK. It can require a great deal of overachievement to enable underachievement.</div></div>

Switched On: Moving forward with leaning back

Each week Ross Rubin contributes Switched On, a column about consumer technology. Just a few months have passed between the introduction ...

مزيد من المعلومات »

NVIDIA Tegra 4i Phoenix reference phone hands-on (video)

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><hr dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" /><div class="image-container" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="NVIDIA Tegra 4i Phoenix reference phone handson video" data-src-height="411" data-src-width="619" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/02/dsc04335.jpg" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">NVIDIA's latest venture in the mobile world, called the 4i, was introduced last week ahead of Mobile World Congress, and fortunately the chipset maker brought the product to Barcelona embedded in a reference phone known as "Phoenix." The 8mm-thick handset, which will find a home in the labs of manufacturers and carriers (as well as the desks of many third-party devs), sports a 5-inch 1080p display, 13MP rear-facing camera, PRISM 2, Chimera, DirectTouch and LTE (we're told that most major bands are included for testing purposes). As it's not geared for general consumer use, so it's not the thinnest, sleekest or best-looking device, and the back doesn't even seem to snap completely shut. Units are being sampled as we speak, and we should expect to see devices hit the market in nine to twelve months. Since it's still pretty early in the process, we weren't able to turn on the phone or benchmark the chipset; the only exception to this rule, as you'll see in the video, was when a rep showed a gaming demo on his particular unit.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">While the 4i is the smaller brother of the Tegra 4 family, it's still expected to be quite powerful. The chip, which is designed specifically for smartphones (tablets will take advantage of Tegra 4 instead), features four 28nm Cortex-A9 r4 (beefed-up from the standard A9) cores that can be clocked up to 2.3GHz, 60 GPU cores (compared to 72 on the T4) and an integrated i500 LTE baseband modem. For additional comparison, NVIDIA showed us the two sibling boards side-by-side. Head below to check out our galleries of Phoenix and the two chipsets, as well as a brief video that shows off the graphics prowess of the 4i.</div></div><iframe frameborder="0" height="349" id="viddler-4cdcdeb4" mozallowfullscreen="true" src="//www.viddler.com/embed/4cdcdeb4/?f=1&offset=0&autoplay=0&secret=43595935&disablebranding=0&view_secret=43595935" webkitallowfullscreen="true" width="545"></iframe></div>

NVIDIA Tegra 4i Phoenix reference phone hands-on (video)

NVIDIA's latest venture in the mobile world, called the 4i, was introduced last week ahead of Mobile World Congress, and fortunately th...

مزيد من المعلومات »

NVIDIA Tegra 4 benchmarked, breaks all sorts of speed records

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div class="image-container" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="NVIDIA Tegra 4 benchmarked, breaks all sorts of speed records video" data-src-height="412" data-src-width="546" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/02/dsc05202-1361706877.jpg" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> When NVIDIA unveiled Tegra 4 back at CES, we scrambled to get hands-on with a reference device. And though our initial performance impressions were positive -- it runs 1080p video and games smoothly -- there was only so much we could say to illustrate how fast the performance is. After all, Tegra 3 already does a fine job handling games and full HD movies. What we <em>really</em> needed were benchmarks, some quantitative data to help show the difference between Tegra 4 devices and whatever's currently on the market. Fortunately for all of you, we just got our chance: here at Mobile World Congress, the company has reference tablets set up expressly for the purpose of running tests. So, we did just that... over and over and over until we had a long list of scores. Meet us after the break to see how it fared.</div><table class="table table-striped" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> <thead><tr> <th style="text-align: left;"> </th> <th style="text-align: left;"> Tegra 4 reference tablet</th> <th style="text-align: left;"> Sony Xperia Tablet S (Tegra 3)</th> <th style="text-align: left;"> ASUS Transformer Pad Infinity (Tegra 3)</th> </tr></thead> <tbody><tr> <td> <strong>Quadrant (v2)</strong></td> <td> 16,436</td> <td> 4,349</td> <td> 4,685</td> </tr><tr> <td> <strong>AnTuTu </strong></td> <td> 36,305</td> <td> 11,301<br /> </td> <td> 12,027</td> </tr><tr> <td> <strong>SunSpider 0.9.1 (ms)</strong></td> <td> 499</td> <td> 1,608<br /> </td> <td> 2,012</td> </tr><tr> <td> <strong>CF-Bench</strong></td> <td> 41,325</td> <td> 12,625</td> <td> 7,874</td> </tr><tr> <td colspan="4"> <small>SunSpider: lower scores are better</small></td> </tr></tbody></table><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> As you can see, those numbers are pretty impressive, but before we go any further, we feel compelled to offer a little disclaimer. Ideally, we would have had some of our older Tegra 3 review units with us here in Spain -- you know, the Sony Xperia Tablet S, the ASUS Transformer Pad Infinity, maybe even the Acer Iconia A700. Basically, other 10-inch Android tablets with quad-core processors. Unfortunately, we didn't have them on hand, so we couldn't re-run the benchmarks on those devices with the latest software installed. That would have made for the best comparison, and we plan to do just that when we eventually start reviewing some Tegra 4 products.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> Still. C'mon. Just <em>look</em> at those benchmark scores. Even if we were to repeat all of our benchmark tests on those older tablets, we're pretty sure a software upgrade would not be enough to help these older tablets match Tegra 4, or even come close. Quadrant scores in the 16,000s? CF-Bench results in the 40,000 range? All unheard of.</div><blockquote class="quote right" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> Just <em>look</em> at those benchmark scores.</blockquote><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> Particularly stunning was that SunSpider result, which should give you a strong idea of what you can expect in terms of web browsing performance. In short, the tablet chewed through all that code in just 499ms (keep in mind that lower numbers are better in this particular test). To give you some perspective, the iPad 4 scores an average of 865ms in the test. So if you enjoy the web browsing experience on your iPad, you're going to be pretty pleased what NVIDIA has to offer here. Put differently, when we ran SunSpider on a laptop, the desktop version of Chrome achieved a score of 188.8ms -- we're used to seeing a much bigger gap between desktop and mobile browsers.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> In addition to letting us benchmark our hearts out, NVIDIA showed us a demo of that same reference tablet hooked up to the same sort of power meter OEMs use to measure power consumption. As you can see in the video below, we've got a 1080p video running, with the power rating hovering around 950 milliwatts, compared to 1.2 watts on some other 1080p devices. The result, says Matt Wuebbling, director of Tegra product marketing, is an extra two hours of battery life compared to the competition. Of course, we can't take his word for it -- we'll just have to wait until we get our first Tegra 4 phone in to review. If nothing else, though, that clip below gives you another chance to see how Tegra 4 handles full HD movies. Take 'er away, and stay tuned for some proper reviews -- hopefully in the not-too-distant future.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> <strong>Update</strong>: We decided to remove Tegra 4's GLBench score (57 fps) from the comparison table because the older tablets listed there were benchmarked using a different version of that test. Suffice to say, though, NVIDIA says a score of 57 fps in that benchmark is typical for a Tegra 4 device.</div></div>

NVIDIA Tegra 4 benchmarked, breaks all sorts of speed records

When NVIDIA unveiled Tegra 4 back at CES, we scrambled to get hands-on with a reference device. And though our initial performance impres...

مزيد من المعلومات »

PowerbyProxi debuts wireless charging solution, aims to fully integrate it into future smartphones (video)

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><hr dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" /> <div class="image-container" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="PowerbyProxi debuts wireless charging solution, aims to fully integrate it into future smartphones video" data-src-height="408" data-src-width="620" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/02/powerbyproxilead.jpg" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> The pathway to innovation is paved with failed attempts to produce wireless charging solutions that a) actually work and b) people genuinely want to use, but we've got yet another upstart here at Mobile World Congress willing to give it a go. PowerbyProxi's solution looks pretty similar to renditions we've seen from Fulton Innovation, but it's quick to point out the differences. The loosely-coupled method uses a bantam receiver that's "efficient enough to be integrated into the processor board of a smartphone without causing over-heating."</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> While previous industry designs have resulted in longer charging times than if the device were plugged into a wall socket, PowerbyProxi's solution reportedly "provides charging at the same speed as wired charging." In fact, it claims to offer the only system that can rejuvenate up to three devices at the same time at full power. If you're wondering what working group these guys are going to side with, that much is still up in the air -- it's remaining "agnostic towards the selection of an ultimate standard" for now.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> We spoke with the company here at Mobile World Congress, and it confirmed to us that it's working with the top five major battery manufacturers, and we should see wireless AA and AAA cells "within 12 months." It wouldn't confirm how soon we'd see it in phones, tablets or laptops (yeah, it'll work in all of 'em), but it's clearly working with some of the top OEMs and hoping for the best. In the demo we witnessed, specially equipped Galaxy S III handsets charged alongside one another, even when barely clinging to the charging pad. Despite a bunch of metallic objects being heaped on the pad, it was intelligent enough to only send power to the phones, keeping gum boxes and coins cool, calm and collected. Head on past the break for quick video tour as well as a press release.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> <em>Dana Murph contributed to this report. </em></div></div><iframe width="640" height="360" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/NuLuAVJXJfc?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

PowerbyProxi debuts wireless charging solution, aims to fully integrate it into future smartphones (video)

The pathway to innovation is paved with failed attempts to produce wireless charging solutions that...

مزيد من المعلومات »