Hyundai launches the all-new Blue Link Mobile app for the iPhone and Android
Hyundai this week introduced an all-new mobile application for the Hyundai-developed Blue Link telematics platform. The mobile app allows subscribers to remotely access various Blue Link features and services through compatible mobile devices. Completely redesigned from the ground up, the app has been significantly enhanced from the previous version and boasts a new user experience, faster navigation and innovative new features. Google Android and Apple iOS users can download the app today from Google Play or Apple iTunes, respectively. A Blackberry version is also in development.

Blue Link Mobile App Highlights
• Completely redesigned interface and navigation
• Swipe gestures allow quick access to core features
• Remotely access many Blue Link features found on MyHyundai.com
• Manage multiple Blue Link-enrolled vehicles
• Remotely control vehicle functions: Door lock/unlock, horn & lights, lights-only and remote vehicle start (not available on all models)
• Search, save and send POIs to vehicles for in-car navigation
• Innovative new features: car finder, parking meter/timer and vehicle diagnostics
• Remotely manage Blue Link alerts and notifications
•
Blue Link is an innovative telematics solution from Hyundai that combines safety, service and infotainment into a complete package. Blue Link is powered by Agero’s next-generation telematics platform, which offers a flexible architecture that supports multi-modal interfaces for vehicle owners.
REMOTE ACCESS FEATURES
Blue Link Essentials subscribers can access a number of key vehicle functions remotely from the mobile application without the need to be in the proximity of the vehicle. Remote Door Lock or unlock allows for remote control and convenience from virtually anywhere. Remote Horn & Lights allows the subscriber to remotely activate the horn and lights. Remote Lights allows subscriber to remotely activate the vehicle lights only. Remote Vehicle Start, which has been expanded to include more Hyundai models, allows the subscriber to remotely start their vehicle, an especially convenient feature in cold states during winter months. Vehicles equipped with push-button start and automatic or dual-clutch transmissions are supported for Remote Vehicle Start. For added security, all remote access features require the vehicle PIN to be entered prior to the command being sent.
ENHANCED POI FUNCTIONALITY
The all-new Blue Link mobile app includes new useful POI (Point of Interest) features that will come in handy for Blue Link Guidance subscribers. Included is the ability to search POIs using the Smartphone’s on-screen keyboard by entering the name, city, state and/or zip. Searches can be done using the Smartphone’s built-in location service or by manually specifying the location. POIs then can be saved to the phone for quick access. Subscribers also have the ability to send the POI directly to their Hyundai vehicle or by email to a friend through the application. POIs sent to the vehicle also may be saved for later use via the POI History function. Blue Link-equipped vehicles are not required to have a touch-screen navigation system to take advantage of Guidance features. Vehicles not equipped with touch-screen navigation will display navigation information on the standard vehicle audio screen using Blue Link’s Turn-by-Turn feature.

Blue Link subscribers can rest assured knowing that trained specialists are available 24/7 to help when needed most. Taking it one step further, the mobile application includes speed dial buttons to contact Roadside Assistance and Blue Link. A Vehicle Diagnostics screen provides access to critical maintenance information and the ability to view their Monthly Vehicle Report.

BLUE LINK PACKAGES
Blue Link Assurance package:
• Automatic Collision Notification (ACN) and Assistance – Provides immediate assistance when an accident occurs and an airbag is deployed.  In this event, an ACN signal, containing customer and location information, will automatically be transmitted to the response center.  Upon receipt of the signal, a response specialist will attempt to establish voice communications with the vehicle occupants and forward any pertinent information to emergency services.
• SOS Emergency Assistance – Customers request emergency 911 assistance by pressing the dedicated SOS button in the vehicle.  This action transmits vehicle information and location to specially-trained response specialists, who assist in coordinating the dispatch of appropriate emergency assistance to the customer.  The response specialist remains on the line with the customer until advised assistance has arrived.
• Enhanced Roadside Assistance – Enables customers to utilize their Hyundai Assurance 24/7  Roadside Assistance via a single in-vehicle button-press. With Blue Link, vehicle information (including location) is automatically transmitted to a response center, enabling the specialist to dispatch assistance more quickly and efficiently for vehicle assistance and retrieval.
Blue Link Essentials package:
Remote Access:
• Remote Door Lock/Unlock – Enables locking or unlocking vehicle doors via a toll-free number, owner’s website, or mobile phone application.
• Remote Horn and Lights – Enables activating the horn and/or lights via a toll-free number, owner’s website, or mobile phone application.
• Panic Notification – Notifies customers when the panic button on their vehicle key fob has been activated, signifying when a family member or other vehicle occupant may be in danger.  Notifications are configured online and occur via email or text message.
• Remote Vehicle Start – Enables customers to start the vehicle via owner’s website or toll-free number, or mobile phone application.
• Car Finder – (Exclusively available via mobile app) Allows you to find your vehicle on a map if you are within a 1-mile radius of your vehicle and gives you the ability to save your vehicles location for future reference.
Convenience:
• Alarm Notification – Notifies customers when and where the vehicle alert is activated via a text message, email or an automated phone call.
• Quick Tips – Provides quick reference assistance for primary vehicle feature location and function.
• Location Sharing – Enables sending vehicle location to select friends and members of social networking sites, including Facebook – directly from the vehicle.
• Voice Text Messaging – Enables hands-free outgoing text messaging to SMS text recipients allowing for distraction-free driving experience.
Vehicle Self Diagnostics:
• Automated Diagnostic Trouble Code Notification – Provides explanation and repair assistance using vehicle data and off-board diagnosis capabilities to better inform the customer of vehicle trouble alerts.  A combination of in-vehicle display alerts and guided voice messages provides customers with additional instructions (information also sent to the customer’s preferred dealer to assist with the repair process).
• Maintenance Alert – Notifies customers in vehicle as well as via website, email or SMS message that an upcoming service is due at various thresholds leading up to the event.  Configured online, the alerts explain what is included in particular maintenance intervals.
• Recall Advisor – Provides all pertinent recall information should a recall be initiated.
• Web Vehicle Diagnostics – Provides a report of vehicle diagnostics, eco-coach performance and other important information in a monthly email report and web page update, starting 30 days after registering with the Blue Link service.
Theft Protection:
• Stolen Vehicle Recovery – In the event a customer’s vehicle is reported stolen (and a stolen vehicle report has been filed with the appropriate police department), the response center can provide assistance to the police in an attempt to recover the vehicle.
• Stolen Vehicle Slowdown – Used with Stolen Vehicle Recovery, this enables law enforcement to gradually reduce the engine power of the vehicle, thus slowing it down to safe levels. A warning will be transmitted to the driver prior to the slowdown procedure.
• Vehicle Immobilization – Used with Stolen Vehicle Recovery, this enables law enforcement to send a signal to the vehicle which immobilizes the engine management system, thus preventing startup. This capability is only valid when the ignition is off, but the command can be saved by the engine ECU for later immobilization if the vehicle is on or in motion at the time of signal transmission.
Safeguard:
• Valet Alert – Enables alert via email, text message or automated phone message when the customer’s vehicle moves beyond a prescribed distance threshold after leaving the vehicle with the valet.
• Geofence – Enables monitoring vehicle movement in and out of pre-defined regions configured on the owner’s website. When the vehicle enters or leaves a designated region, the customer is notified by email, text message or automated phone message.
• Speed Alert – Notifies the customer via email, text message or automated phone message when their vehicle exceeds the specified speed threshold established on the owner’s website.  High value for parents of teen drivers and fleet customers.
• Curfew Alert – Notifies owners if the vehicle is being used outside a pre-determined time interval. Alerts are configured online and sent via email, text message and/or automated phone message.
Blue Link Guidance package:
• TBT (Turn-by-turn) Navigation Service Turn-by-turn navigation guidance provided for downloaded Points of Interest. Both visual and audio guidance is provided.
• POI Web Search by advanced voice recognition system and download – Enables Point-of-Interest searches using an automated voice system. Results can be downloaded to the vehicle navigation system. Live operators provide additional support, if needed.
• Daily Route Guidance with Traffic Condition – Enables customers to pre-define several routes to a common destination and receive a regularly-scheduled traffic alerts for traffic delays along those routes. Results include flow and incident data, along with “Fastest Route” recommendation.
• Traffic – Provides traffic information surrounding the customer’s vehicle and in the nearby area, based on preferences established using the owner’s website.
• Gas Station Locations and Gas Prices – Locates the nearest gas stations by price and provides brand and regular unleaded fuel price. Results are played back via automated voice, and can be downloaded to the vehicle’s navigation system.
• Eco-Coach – Tracks the customer’s driving performance habits (MPG and CO2 emissions) on a continual and historical basis. Results and environmentally responsible driving recommendations are provided on the owner’s website.
• Restaurant Ratings – Provides restaurant ratings for local restaurants with address download for turn-by-turn navigation or onboard navigation.
• Weather – Provides weather forecasts for the immediate area or for customer-defined locations within the owner website.

Today LaCie announced a new 2-bay network-attached storage solution (NAS) that delivers the ideal combination of speed and security for small businesses – the LaCie 2big NAS, design by Neil Poulton. Powered by a 2GHz processor and improved file system, the 2big NAS delivers speeds up to 100MB/s, ensuring employees can share files from any PC, Mac, or Linux workstation.

In a data-dependant world, small offices can’t afford delays in workflow. The 2big NAS supports non-stop data accessibility and collaboration thanks to its 2Ghz processor and LaCie NAS OS 2 software. It delivers enough storage capacity and bandwidth to back up multiple workstations, share large files and work on projects concurrently.

Because data multiplies by the second, office administrators and IT professionals must ensure all digital assets are backed up and secure. The LaCie 2big NAS offers multiple levels of security including RAID 1 for data mirroring. Coupled with its hot-swappable drives, a failed disk can be replaced with no interruption, no data loss and without needing to turn off the device.

The LaCie 2big NAS ensures a complete backup of any Linux, PC or Mac workstation. Choose from the popular Time Machine and Windows 7 Backup software, or the included LaCie backup software. Consistent automatic backup means users can restore lost files instantly.

What’s more, LaCie’s NAS OS 2 dashboard makes it easy for businesses to back up the 2big NAS automatically, for added data security and peace of mind. Wizards with presets make advanced tasks such as RAID management, users management and NAS-to-NAS backups easy. No IT degree required. With just a few clicks users can back up the 2big NAS onto a direct-attached external hard drive, or schedule a nightly backup onto a NAS in a different location.

Complementary to fast file sharing and data security is instant access to your data. The 2big NAS allows employees to access important files anywhere where there is an Internet connection. They can even download the free iOS app – LaCie MyNAS – to access files from an iPhone or iPad.

The LaCie 2big NAS saves businesses money by allowing full control of its energy usage. Users can schedule shutdown and restart during optimal business hours to boost efficiency. Plus, the LaCie 2big NAS is now ten times more energy efficient when in deep sleep mode. And, thanks to the wake-on-LAN protocol, users can access the 2big NAS from deep sleep without being next to the system.

The LaCie 2big NAS is available in 0TB and 6TB capacities through the LaCie Online Store, LaCie PROgram+ Partners and LaCie PROgram+ Resellers starting at $299.00.

AMD today announced the widely anticipated launch of its 2nd-Generation AMD A-Series Accelerated Processing Units (APUs) for mainstream and ultrathin notebooks, All-in-One and traditional desktops, home theater PCs and embedded designs.

The 2nd-Generation A-Series APU, codenamed “Trinity”, is a grounds-up improved design over the previous generation, enabling a best-in-class PC mobility, entertainment, and gaming experience. New features of the product design include:

Double the performance per watt of the previous generation;2
The AMD HD Media Accelerator with a unique set of technologies designed to optimize video quality available with premium and Internet video content, and accelerate video file conversion;
An increase in CPU performance of up to 29 percent3 with higher processor speeds thanks to the next-generation AMD “Piledriver” CPU core with 3rd-Generation AMD Turbo Core technology, where power is dynamically shifted between the CPU and GPU depending on application needs, effectively providing a more responsive experience that can boost CPU frequencies to up to 3.2 GHz;
AMD Radeon™ HD 7000 Series graphics for an increase of graphics performance up to 56% over the previous generation.4 Combined, the CPU and GPU cores deliver more than 700 gigaflops of computing performance5 – several times more than the fastest x86 CPUs – to boost performance of hundreds of applications;

Up to 12 hours of battery life through CPU and GPU power enhancements, with clear battery life leadership in notebook form factors.

The developer ecosystem continues to gravitate to the unmatched level of compute and unique processing capabilities of the APU as more than 100 applications and games are now accelerated by AMD APUs. The 2nd-Generation AMD A-Series APU gives users superior Web-based video experience thanks to plug-ins for Google Chrome, Firefox and Internet Explorer 9 that make it easy for consumers to turn on AMD Steady Video technology.6 Recent applications that have been optimized for use on AMD A-Series APUs include Adobe Photoshop CS6, WinZip 16.5 and VLC Media Player. AMD A-Series APUs are also well-positioned to take advantage of the upcoming transition to the Windows® 8 operating system.

For developers who want to engage in the industry’s move toward heterogeneous computing, the upcoming AMD Fusion12 Developer Summit will offer them a unique opportunity to enhance their knowledge base. More information on AFDS can be found here.

Unmatched Mobility
With more than 12 hours of ‘resting’ battery life, AMD is now an industry leader in notebook battery-life performance. The 2nd-Generation AMD A-Series APU delivers increased levels of performance, while consuming half the power as its predecessor.

These gains can be attributed to the new power-optimized “Piledriver” CPU core, as well as to AMD Start Now technology, which is designed to maximize system responsiveness by quickly entering and exiting low power states. With AMD Start Now, the computer resumes from sleep mode in as few as two seconds and boots to the desktop in as few as 10 seconds.7

In ultrathin form factors, AMD enables an uncompromised visual experience thanks to a power-efficient and premium AMD Radeon graphics engine. Consumers can expect to see ultrathin notebooks based on dual-core 17-watt and quad-core 25-watt AMD A-Series APUs. These products will be easily identifiable by aluminum-styled VISION Technology stickers at a range of competitive price points.

Best-in-class Entertainment
As more and more people turn to their computers as the hub for their entertainment, the visual aspect of computing becomes ever more important. To enhance these capabilities, AMD created the AMD HD Media Accelerator – a unique set of technologies that enable the best video quality on a PC. Key features of the HD Media Accelerator include:

AMD Perfect Picture HD – An image, video processing and display technology that automatically makes images and video better with color vibrancy adjustments, edge enhancement, noise reduction and dynamic contrast fixes;8
AMD Steady Video Technology – A technology that enables smooth playback of jittery video content with a single button click thanks to plug-ins for popular Web browsers and multimedia applications;6
AMD Quick Stream Technology – A new technology that prioritizes video streaming on PC systems for a smooth, virtually uninterrupted video stream;
True HD video chat with up to four people at once;
AMD Video Converter – A video compression engine for fast conversion and sharing of media files across multiple formats and devices;
Full decode support for H.264, MPEG-2, VC-1, MVC, DivX and WMV.
Gaming Leadership
The 2nd-Generation AMD A-Series APU builds on AMD’s legacy of gaming leadership with an increase in graphics performance of up to 56% over the previous generation4 and support for:

AMD Eyefinity Technology – For the first time, this immersive technology is available from an APU without the need for a discrete graphics card;10
Performance-leading DirectX 11 graphics architecture and 1080p gaming a life-like level of detail;
AMD Radeon dual graphics support that delivers a performance boost of up to 75 percent when adding a discrete graphics card to the APU.11 The AMD Radeon dual graphics option also offers support for DirectX 9 for older game titles, and uses new AMD CrossFire™ Technology Profiles for easier updates.

Today, Planar Systems unveiled a digital display box that incorporates a transparent display to create a first-of-its-kind merchandising and exhibition solution. The 32-inch Planar LookThru Display Box is an enclosed showcase fronted by a clear glass surface that can display multimedia content in front of products placed inside the unit.

“Planar’s LookThru technology is the ultimate combination of digital and physical marketing and exhibition,” said Jennifer Davis, vice president of marketing for Planar Systems. “Messaging can be seamlessly integrated with the actual product, creating a whole new way to engage consumers and promote products and memorabilia in a wide variety of settings, such as the growing markets of retail, museums, sports arenas and corporate lobbies. From retail merchandising to trophy cases, from trade shows to museum exhibits, the opportunities to use the Planar LookThru are diverse and compelling.”

Planar developed the industry’s first transparent display in the early 2000s. The Planar LookThru Display Box extends the company’s leadership in transparent digital signage display technology, offering advantages including:

Complete solution. Each Planar LookThru Display Box is a fully-equipped display solution, with a Planar transparent active matrix LCD which fronts the metal enclosure. Planar’s ERO™ (Extended Ruggedness and Optics™) technology provides a rugged, touch-compatible surface in front of the LCD.
Image quality. Planar’s Ultimate Color Illumination and Contrast (UCIC) technology enhances the transparency, image contrast and vibrancy of colors on the display. Brand managers can be assured UCIC can reproduce even the most distinctive branded hues.

Consumer product showcase. The 32-inch box is ideal for a wide variety of products, including personal electronics, sporting goods, clothing, housewares and other consumer goods. Key messages or attributes can be highlighted on the display directly front of the merchandise. Third-party touch capabilities make it possible for customers to receive information about specific features or components by simply pointing at them on the glass panel.

Exterior display space. The box can serve as standalone display on counters or end units. The exterior sides of the box can display complementary static signage or branding. The box comes standard in a fashion-forward white finish and is available in custom colors upon request.
Build-a-box. With the Planar LookThru Installation Kit, custom displays, retail fixtures or kiosks can be turned into dynamic digital display boxes.

The Planar LookThru Display Box will be available late summer 2012 through Planar’s worldwide network of authorized resellers. In addition, Planar plans to develop LookThru solutions that meet the display needs of education, museums, corporate designers, event producers and architectural firms.

Once again Acer pushes the boundaries of mobile computing to the extreme and created a family of Ultrabooks that are destined to impress and leave a mark. The all new Aspire M5 series reaches unprecedented levels of performance, convenience, connectivity and battery life.

Simply thin and light and not compromising with 14” and 15” form factors, the Aspire M5 represents the new experience of instant use and anywhere mobility.

The Aspire M5 series are stunning laptops from any point of view, starting from the ultra-thin and smart design all the way through the powerful processors and graphics, the advanced audio technology and the seamless connectivity.

The first thing that catches the eye is the new metallic silver of the top cover that blends with the revolutionary new display technology: this integrates the display frame, cutting the bezel thickness by a third to create a futuristic effect. The clean lines, the geometric shapes and smooth angles all conjure up a minimalistic and ultra-stylish look and feel.

The casual design houses powerful all-around performance features. Sharp graphics performance comes from the latest NVIDIA GeForce GT640M with 1GB DDR5, supporting PhysX, which accelerates gaming detail of material and effects for fast and smooth image experience, and Microsoft DirectX 11 for film-like geometric detail, perfectly smooth curves, and life-like animation.

The Acer Aspire M5 Series is based on the third generation of Intel Core processors family, providing dynamic processing performance and speedier multitasking while consuming less power.

The overall experience is ultra-responsive. Acer Green Instant-On provides fast resume in 1.5 seconds from sleep mode. Likewise, Acer Instant Connect automatically scans and registers most-visited access points, letting users connect to the Internet in just 2.5 seconds, which is four times faster than conventional methods.

Acer leads the trend of thin and light: thus in around 20 mm thin form factor, the Aspire M5 still features an optical disc drive, backlit chiclet keyboard (14” and 15”) with numeric keypad (15” only), which provides prosumer look and feel, easy-to-clean efficiency, and typing with comfort.

An ample hard disk drive offers plenty of space for large files, and an integrated solid state drive enables instant-on capability. An SSD-only configuration is also available. The highly durable SSD lets user access files faster, run the battery longer, and operate more quietly.

In the Timeline tradition, this Ultrabook features 8 hours of battery life, providing a full day of on-demand multimedia enjoyment and productivity on a single charge.

Honda Motor today unveiled the new UNI-CUB personal mobility device, designed for harmony with people. Featuring a compact design and comfortable saddle, UNI-CUB offers the same freedom of movement in all directions that a person enjoys while walking.

Representing the evolution of the U3-X personal mobility device that Honda announced in 2009, UNI-CUB features Honda’s proprietary balance control technology and the world’s first omni-directional driving wheel system (Honda Omni Traction Drive System). These technologies allow the rider to control speed, move in any direction, turn and stop, all simply by shifting his or her weight. Since the rider can freely move forward, backward, side-to-side and diagonally, he or she can quickly and easily maneuver among other people.

Moreover, UNI-CUB’s compact saddle-style packaging makes it easy for the rider’s legs to reach the ground and maintains eye-level height with other pedestrians. This configuration promotes harmony between the rider and others, letting the rider travel freely and comfortably inside facilities and among moving people.

Starting in June 2012, Honda will jointly conduct demonstration testing of UNI-CUB with Japan’s National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation. In addition to testing the feasibility of using UNI-CUB indoors, this project will explore the practical applications of the device in a wide range of environments in Japan and other countries.

The balance control technology of UNI-CUB is part of the Honda Robotics family of technologies, which originates with Honda’s research into humanoid robots, including the world-famous ASIMO.

Going forward, Honda will continue its proactive research and development of next-generation mobility technologies, aiming always to offer more and more people the joy and fun that comes from freedom of movement.

Key features of UNI-CUB:

Maneuverability promotes compatibility with people in many environments:
1.

Omni-directional freedom of movement similar to human walking
UNI-CUB has a two-wheel configuration with a minimal wheelbase. The front wheel features the Honda Omni Traction Drive System that Honda first announced in 2009. The rear wheel moves laterally to facilitate turning. By leveraging the different rotational speeds of the front and rear wheel treads during lateral movements, UNI-CUB can move forwards and backwards, side-to-side and diagonally and also turn in place, making possible quick, nimble movement.

2.
Movement in harmony with other people
Honda’s proprietary balance control technology makes it possible for the rider to freely control the wheels of the UNI-CUB, much as human beings maintain their balance. With a design that takes into consideration the rider’s environment, this system allows the rider to maneuver while moving side by side with or holding hands with another person.

3.
Compact size for moving and climbing gradients in barrier-free indoor environments
Thanks to UNI-CUB’s compact saddle-style packaging, the rider and vehicle together are about the same width as a person when walking. Optimized wheel design and high-precision drive/balance control enhance UNI-CUB’s ability to climb gradients in barrier-free indoor environments.

Ease of control promotes freedom of movement:
4.
Weight shift control combined with touch panel control
When the rider is using weight shift control, UNI-CUB’s incline sensor detects the direction in which the rider is leaning, allowing UNI-CUB to calculate the direction and speed intended by the rider. And touch panel control via smartphone and other devices is another convenient control option.

Virgin Mobile USA answers to A Higher Calling once again, announcing with LG Mobile the availability today of LG Optimus Elite in Titan Silver for $149.99. The device operates on Virgin Mobile’s industry-leading, no-contract Beyond Talk plans with unlimited data and messaging starting at $35 a month. Stylish and slim, LG Optimus Elite comes with Google Wallet and is now available at virginmobileusa.com and major retailers nationwide.

A successor to the popular LG Optimus V, this highly customizable full-featured smartphone keeps customers organized with Android 2.3 Gingerbread, and other key features, including a 3.5-inch HVGA screen, 800MHz processor, 5MP autofocus rear-facing camera and camcorder with flash, and a virtual QWERTY keyboard.

A first for Virgin Mobile USA devices, LG Optimus Elite comes with Near Field Communications (NFC), allowing customers to access true value features, such as Google WalletTM, an app that allows payment using a mobile device from participating retailers at select Macy’s, RadioShack, Walgreens, Gap and more.

Operating on the Sprint Nationwide Network1, Virgin Mobile USA offers tremendous value for those customers who text, IM, post, email, friend, like and tweet more than they talk. Virgin Mobile Beyond Talk plans start at just $35 a month for 300 minutes of voice and include unlimited messaging and data. For those looking for a bit more talk time, the $45 plan offers 1,200 minutes of voice, and the $55 plan offers unlimited voice minutes each month. All plans include unlimited messaging and data (plans include 2.5GB of full-speed data).

“LG Mobile strives to provide the best technologies and services that are not only extremely useful, but also accessible to everyone,” said Tim O’Brien, vice president of marketing for LG Mobile. “The LG Optimus Elite not only has amazing features, but with add-ons such as Google Wallet, Box and Virgin Mobile’s affordable monthly plan, consumers will be getting a great smartphone with incredible value.”

Customers can also download Box on LG Optimus Elite and receive 50GB of free cloud storage and sharing2 directly from LG, an estimated value of $240 per year, so they don’t have to stress about storing all of their favorite music, files, photos and other memories.

Incoming search terms:

• lg elite virgin mobile (2)

Electronic Arts today unveiled five game-changing innovations that will bring revolutionary changes to EA SPORTS™ FIFA Soccer 13 along with the largest and deepest feature set in the history of the franchise.

The most sophisticated artificial intelligence ever achieved for the FIFA Soccer franchise will drive FIFA Soccer 13 on HD consoles and PC. All-new Attacking Intelligence enables players to analyze space, work harder and smarter to break down defenses, and think two plays ahead. Players now possess the intelligence to create, curve, or alter runs to capitalize on openings as they occur, make runs that pull defenders out of position to open passing channels for teammates, and better position themselves for new attacking opportunities.

In FIFA Soccer 13 every touch matters with the most comprehensive and intuitive dribbling system ever developed. Inspired by the world’s best player, Lionel Messi, Complete Dribbling enables players to face their opponent and use precise dribble touches combined with true 360° mobility with the ball, so it’s easier to be more creative and dangerous in 1v1 opportunities. Players change direction quicker, are more explosive accelerating with the ball, and are more effective shielding defenders for longer stretches. FIFA 13 1st Touch Control transforms the way players control the ball, eliminating near-perfect touch for every player on the pitch, and creating variety and uncertainty around ball control. Factors such as defensive pressure, trajectory of the ball, and velocity of the pass now impact a player’s first touch, creating more opportunities for defenders to win back possession.

The second generation of the Player Impact Engine expands physical play from just collisions to off-the-ball battles between players. Defenders push and pull for position, and use their size and strength to win possession or force opponents into poor touches and decisions before the ball arrives. FIFA 13 Tactical Free Kicks provides the tools to create dangerous and unpredictable free kicks utilizing the most skillful players on the pitch. Position up to three attacking players over the ball and utilize dummy runs and more passing options to create elaborate free kicks. Opponents can counter by adding or subtracting players to the wall, creeping the wall forward, or sending a bullet man to intercept the pass or block the shot.

FIFA Soccer 13 will also feature:
Improved Career Mode with major changes developed in response to requests from the most passionate fans of the franchise.
New features to enhance the massive EA SPORTS FIFA online offering, including improvements to the wildly popular Head-To-Head Seasons mode
Multiple new features and benefits to EA SPORTS Football Club, the live service that is the heartbeat of FIFA
Complete authenticity with more than 500 officially licensed clubs.
Additional new modes and features will be announced in the months ahead.

FIFA Soccer 13 will be available in stores world-wide this fall for the PlayStation 3 computer entertainment system with PlayStation Move support, Xbox 360 videogame and entertainment system with Kinect, PlayStation Vita handheld entertainment system, Wii, PC, PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system, Nintendo 3DS, PSP (PlayStation Portable) system, iPhone, iPad, iPod touch and other mobile platforms. The game has not yet been rated.

Adobetoday announced the immediate availability of Adobe ColdFusion 10 software, a premier server side technology designed to allow developers to create more dynamic and interactive Web applications for enterprises using the Java™ EE platform. ColdFusion 10 now offers built-in support for HTML5 and helps boost performance using Tomcat integration and enhanced caching. With the new hotfix installer and scheduler, ColdFusion 10 Enterprise Edition allows enterprise developers to improve productivity, while strengthening authentication and encryption techniques to make websites more secure.

With a multitude of enhancements, ColdFusion 10 reduces complex business logic into a few lines of code, dramatically accelerating the development cycle. ColdFusion 10 brings in the same capability to HTML5 application development to help deliver rich user experiences through Web-sockets, video player, geo-tagging and interactive charting. Leveraging an array of built-in features, ColdFusion 10 gives developers the tools to condense enormous tasks into easily manageable projects and rapidly build and deploy scalable Java EE applications to satisfy large-scale business needs in the enterprise.

“In the world of rich internet applications, the latest HTML5 standards are pushing the limits of what developers can achieve on the Web,” said Tridib Roy Chowdhury, senior director of Products & GM-Web and eLearning, Adobe. “With the increase of content consumption on mobile devices and tablets, it has become critical for companies to provide a rich and consistent brand experience on mobile. Adobe is at the forefront of the HTML5 revolution, and ColdFusion 10 delivers the first server side solutions to help develop interactive HTML5 applications to deliver richer user experiences across multiple screens from desktops to tablets and smartphones. In ColdFusion 10, we’ve focused on helping enterprise Web developers improve their productivity in development, deployment and maintenance and helped them easily leverage the latest technologies of the day.”

New ColdFusion 10 features include:

Built-in support for HTML5: Leverage the unique HTML5 integration and create richer user experiences using the Web-sockets, interactive charting, video player, and geo tagging. Publish data to multiple clients or execute a point-to-point data push with real-time server response.
Tomcat integration: Experience enhanced performance from the built-in Tomcat application server that replaces Adobe JRun™ software. With active and vast support from the developer community, Tomcat implements the latest Web standards.
Dynamic and interactive HTML5 charting: Access a large repository of interactive, client-side HTML5 charts and easily implement them using the built-in chart functionality. Create an enriched user experience by customizing charts, including charts that run in Adobe Flash® technology.
Hotfix installer and notifications: Receive instant notifications of updates to ColdFusion via the ColdFusion Administrator and save time installing updates by using the one-click Hotfix installer.
Security enhancements: Cross-site scripting (XSS) and cross-site request forgery (CSRF) attacks are major security threats for enterprises. ColdFusion 10 helps protect your server against such threats using the formidable security standards and the inherent functions to sanitize user input. Strengthen the authentication of your application using the enhanced login mechanism and improved session cookie management.
“Adobe ColdFusion 10 offers a wide range of new features and improvements to quickly develop applications that respond faster to our users, including language enhancements, RESTful Web services and HTML5 Web sockets,” said Sam Farmer, senior applications architect, FirstComp.

“Adobe ColdFusion 10 proves once again that year after year, it is far ahead of the competition in terms of features and performance, leaving others out there spending more time playing catch up rather than innovating,” said Jeff Coughlin, web application developer, Versatile Internet Solutions. “The enhanced Tomcat integration in Adobe ColdFusion 10 is a great selling point for developers. Tomcat integration will provide peace of mind with the security updates—especially my healthcare customers where security is a big concern.”

ColdFusion 10 is available now in three editions. ColdFusion 10 Enterprise Edition is a high-performance solution for delivering multiple websites and applications on one or more servers, or on existing J2EE application server installations starting at an estimated street price of US$8,499. ColdFusion 10 Standard is an easy-to-manage configuration for single applications ideal for small to medium-sized businesses and available starting at an estimated street price of US$1,499. ColdFusion 10 Developer Edition, a full-featured server for development use only, is available as a no charge download. Low cost upgrade pricing is available to customers with valid licenses of ColdFusion 8 and ColdFusion 9. ColdFusion 10 is immediately available for purchase online from the Adobe Store, directly from Adobe, and through Adobe’s network of partners and resellers.

Lenovo today at its Accelerate Channel Partner Conference in Las Vegas previewed the upcoming ThinkPad X1 Carbon laptop, the lightest 14-inch Ultrabook in the industry. With an amazingly thin and extremely powerful design, the ThinkPad X1 Carbon shatters the mold of traditional laptops. Also today, Lenovo announced a new portfolio of ThinkPad laptops in the T, X, L and W Series built to power small businesses, government agencies, educational institutions and large corporations. The laptops range from models designed for extreme portability to mobile workstation performance.

ThinkPad X1 Carbon: The Lightest Professional Ultrabook
Created for those who demand the highest levels of performance, mobility, entertainment and design, the ThinkPad X1 Carbon exceeds Ultrabook specifications by using a premium carbon fiber rollcage to create a durable Ultrabook weighing less than three pounds. Other premium features include 3G connectivity for anywhere anytime access, Lenovo RapidCharge for a near-full battery charge in 30 minutes, and Intel vPro technology for manageability.

“We crafted the ThinkPad X1 Carbon with premium carbon fiber material in order to make it incredibly thin and light, yet durable,” said Lu Yan, senior vice president, Think Product Group, Lenovo. “Our new ThinkPad laptop portfolio embodies much of the innovative thinking exemplified in the X1 Carbon, such as a backlit keyboard, super-bright high definition display, Dolby Home Theatre and rich communications features that balance business performance with personal use.”

ThinkPad Portfolio: Class-Leading Laptops
The new ThinkPad X, T, W, and L Series models include a platform of innovations that respond to key business needs. Featuring 3rd Generation Intel Core processors and Lenovo Enhanced Experience 3.0 (EE 3.0) with RapidBoot technology, the laptops boot 40 percent faster than a typical Windows 7 computer. Also the new ThinkPad Precision Keyboard extends across the new lineup and features a backlit option and modern, clean design. For a clear and rich audio-visual experience, the laptops include Dolby audio and super-bright 300 NIT HD+ panels. Communication becomes simple with the introduction of 4G long term evolution (LTE)/mobile broadband on select ThinkPad laptop models and the introduction of Lenovo’s upcoming contract-free mobile broadband. The new ThinkPad laptop family consistently exceeds military specifications giving mobile professionals the confidence to work anywhere under almost any condition.

A Road Warrior’s Dream – ThinkPad X230 Ultraportable
Designed for business professionals on-the-go, the ThinkPad X230 laptop delivers top performance with an amazing 24 hours of battery life packed into a compact, lightweight form.3 Despite its small size, the laptop’s ergonomic design with the optional Precision Backlit Keyboard makes the laptop comfortable and easy to use. A road warrior’s dream weighing less than three pounds, the ThinkPad X230 laptop features a super-bright 12.5-inch, 300 nit IPS wide-viewing display. Its 4G mobile broadband, a first for ThinkPad laptops, delivers blazing fast wireless connectivity.

Flexible and Powerful – ThinkPad X230t Ultraportable Tablet
The ThinkPad X230t convertible tablet with pen combines the functionality and performance of a 12-inch ultraportable laptop with the mobility and flexibility of a tablet computer. In addition to many of the same features as the X230, the X230t also has a convenient optional touch screen and is complemented by adding the optional ThinkPad laser mouse.

Uncompromised Power and Performance – ThinkPad T430/430s/530
Lenovo’s T Series laptops offer ThinkPad’s best combination of mobility and performance. Work endlessly with up to 32.5 hours of battery life on some configurations and perform at the highest levels with features like optional NVIDIA discrete graphics.4 The T430s is the ThinkPad line’s lightest 14-inch laptop featuring docking and vPro. The Series’ best-selling T430 also has a very compact form. For users who want a larger screen size in a thin light form factor, the T530 offers a 15-inch full HD display with a 95 percent color gamut. Other performance and mobility features on the T Series laptops include USB 3.0, Lenovo RapidCharge and 4G mobile broadband.

Mobile Workstation Made Easy – ThinkPad W530
Packed with strong laptop performance, the ThinkPad W530 is an independent software vendor (ISV)-certified workstation for those who require extreme processor and/or graphic performance combined with mobility. The full HD, 270 nit wide-viewing angle display meets intensive GPU requirements with its 95 percent color gamut and a built-in color calibrator. Up to four additional displays can be connected when paired with the ThinkPad Dock. Ideal for designers who need a bright, clear and colorful screen that shows true color consistency, this mobile workstation also includes NVIDIA Quadro mobile graphics processors with second generation Optimus power management technology. The ThinkPad W530 comes ready to handle out-of-the-box with multiple professional applications such as CAD/CAM, GIS and 3D modeling.

True to the Core – ThinkPad L430/530
Combined with the great features of the ThinkPad portfolio, the ThinkPad L430 and L530 laptops provide business users with an affordable PC without sacrificing performance. With a thinner and lighter design over its predecessor, the new L Series offers a high definition (HD) screen in either a 14-inch or 15-inch option.

Super Speed Docking – ThinkPad Series 3/USB 3.0 Dock
Users can maximize the power of the latest ThinkPad laptops with improved ThinkPad docking solutions. Lenovo enhanced the ThinkPad Series 3 docking stations with a USB 3.0 port that delivers 10 times the performance of USB 2.0. As the most compact USB 3.0 docking solution, the all new USB 3.0 Dock also packs in five SuperSpeed USB 3.0 data ports, dual beyond-HD video out, gigabit Ethernet and always-on mobile device charging. With common ThinkPad docking solutions, batteries, and power supplies, IT managers can swap hardware among employees to maximize their resources and minimize cost.

All ThinkPad laptops include Lenovo worldwide service and support including local language tech support. Lenovo offers a wide range of solutions for large businesses that help save IT departments time and money including transition services, accidental damage protection service and priority support. Additionally, Lenovo is offering a new option for Onsite Technician Installation of Customer Replaceable Units (CRUs) for ThinkPad laptops, which includes memory modules, optical drive, power supply, PCI cards, fan assembly and hard disk drive. This upgraded warranty option provides an authorized repair technician to install a part onsite to help less technical customers or those located away from company IT support desks.

Models of the ThinkPad X230 laptop will start at approximately $1,179.
Models of the ThinkPad X230T convertible tablet will start at approximately $1,479.
Models of the ThinkPad T430 laptop will start at approximately $879.
Models of the ThinkPad T430s laptop will start at approximately $1,399.
Models of the ThinkPad L430 and L530 laptop will start at approximately $879.
The ThinkPad W530 mobile workstation models will start at approximately $1,529.
The above referenced laptops will be available starting in early June.

Incoming search terms:

• lenovo partner conference x1 (1)

More wireless customers in Southwest and Central Florida soon will have access to the nation’s fastest 4G wireless network, when Verizon Wireless expands its most advanced network in the Fort Myers and Lakeland areas on May 17.

In Central Florida, nine additional cell sites throughout Polk County added 4G LTE capabilities to bring the advanced services to Fort Meade, Polk City, Auburndale, Lake Alfred, South Lakeland and Lakeland Linder Regional Airport.

Verizon Wireless previously launched 4G LTE in the core areas of Southwest and Central Florida, and already covers more than 75 percent of the state’s population with the advanced technology.

Nationally as of May 17, the Verizon Wireless 4G LTE network will cover more than two-thirds of the U.S. population in 258 markets, and the company plans to cover more than 400 markets with 4G LTE by the end of the year. The rollout of 4G LTE across Verizon’s entire network footprint is scheduled to be complete by the end of 2013.

4G LTE technology is up to 10 times faster than the company’s industry-leading 3G network. In real-world, fully loaded network environments, 4G LTE users should experience data rates of 5 to 12 megabits per second (Mbps) on the downlink and 2 to 5 Mbps on the uplink.

The 4G LTE network allows streaming videos with no buffering, or downloading and viewing full-length HD movies. Music lovers can download songs in seconds, gamers can take part in multiplayer online action, and social media types can upload photos and posts while on-the-go. Business owners can use the efficiency and speed of the 4G LTE network to boost their bottom line.

“Southwest and Central Florida have had an early taste of the speed and power of 4G LTE,” said Pam Tope, Florida region president for Verizon Wireless. “This expansion will deliver this superior technology to even more area customers and communities.”

The Verizon 4G LTE network was named “Fastest 4G Network Yet” by Popular Science’s 2011 Best of What’s New Awards, and ranked No. 1 on PC World’s 100 Best Products of 2011.

Sorenson Media today announced the immediate availability of Sorenson Squeeze 8.5. This latest version of Squeeze is the fastest version yet of the perennial market-leading encoding and transcoding application, with a feature set designed to drive major workflow productivity improvements through the Sorenson 360 online video platform (OVP).

Single Output Acceleration: Full Squeeze 8.5 optimization for each of the major output formats, including MP4, QuickTime (MOV), WebM and Matroska (MKV). Parallel rather than sequential processing now drives the Squeeze engine. A significant re-architecture enables the application to systematically break decoded, compressed video files into separate content chunks and partition these simultaneously across multiple CPUs for processing. In internal benchmark tests, the re-architected Squeeze 8.5 has demonstrated speed increases averaging 200 percent faster than the prior version, Squeeze 8.

Intel Quick Sync Optimization: Sorenson Media has collaborated with Intel engineers to optimize Squeeze 8.5 for Intel’s Quick Sync platform and codec, including optimization for Intel’s Second Generation (Sandy Bridge) and Third Generation (Ivy Bridge) processors on Windows machines. Benchmark tests on these platforms with the new optimization have demonstrated a doubling of speed, over and above the single output acceleration improvements.

Faster Adaptive Bitrate Encoding: As with single output acceleration, adaptive bitrate encoding is now processed in parallel, rather than sequentially. Each rendition can be spread across multiple CPUs, resulting in 200 percent faster encodes on average.
Complete CPU Control: Squeeze 8.5 empowers Squeeze users for the first time to choose how to throttle CPU encoding via an intuitive slider bar – including devoting up to 100 percent of the user’s system resources to a particular encode.

In addition to the speed improvements, Squeeze 8.5 features new significant workflow enhancements through seamless integration and – for the first time – free permanent storage within Sorenson 360, Sorenson Media’s online video platform. With this free storage, users are able to take advantage of key workflow enhancements, including the ability to seamlessly encode and upload video files to the cloud for storage and distribution directly from the Squeeze interface, including a seamless review and approval process.

Squeeze 8.5 significantly streamlines the cumbersome, onerous conventional review and approval process typical of the video production workflow into a few simple steps – eliminating multiple inefficient and time-consuming steps of burning and delivering DVDs or using file sharing services like Dropbox, Box or YouSendIt that are not optimized for video sharing across multiple screens.

Sorenson 360 has also been enhanced through the addition of a new user interface with a sophisticated rich text editor and the ability to easily send existing video content already in the Sorenson 360 OVP for review and approval without the need to re-encode.

Other features include:
Manual Timecode Control: Users now have the ability to reset the playhead or otherwise reassign timecode information to any video file.
New Outputs: MPEG DASH in MP4 with H.264 and AAC
New Inputs: JPEG 2000 Decode – Elementary, MJ2, MP4, MXF wrappers, any resolution
“Our customers have spoken, and we have responded to deliver the ‘thunder and lightning’ they were looking for,” said Peter Csathy, CEO of Sorenson Media. “The thunder is the best-ever Squeeze feature set, which makes the encoding, transcoding, production and collaboration workflow better and easier than anything else in the market. The lightning is the unprecedented speed that enables users to get the highest-quality video content to their desired destinations in record time.”

Sorenson Squeeze 8.5 and 8.5 Pro are now available for $799 and $999, respectively, for new Squeeze customers. It is also available for a limited time as a free upgrade for customers of Sorenson Squeeze 8. Sorenson Squeeze 8 customers receive 5 GB of free permanent storage and use of all Sorenson 360 features. For more information, contact a member of the sales team at sales@sorensonmedia.com.

Incoming search terms:

• mp4 movis (1)

Today’s IT managers face a range of challenges from complex business processes to sophisticated security threats. Additionally, a number of industries such as retail, healthcare and industrial are turning to technology to develop innovative solutions to solve the unique challenges facing them in an increasingly connected world. To address these challenges, Intel Corporation has announced the availability of its 3rd Generation Intel Core vPro processor-based platforms for business and intelligent systems.

The enhancements to the Intel Core vPro processor platform provide a more secure platform for business computing and drive the next wave of innovation in intelligent systems. The Intel Core vPro processor-based platforms address the realities of today’s business climate, where data integrity and organizational efficiency create a competitive advantage. New capabilities embed security at every layer, including the silicon, without compromising performance. Software innovation allows IT managers to set up and configure systems within minutes to quickly implement compelling solutions. Additionally, the enhanced graphics and secure manageability help accelerate the transition and growth in intelligent systems for the retail, industrial, and healthcare industries.

Businesses can take advantage of the latest Intel Core vPro processor platform through a multitude of devices including Ultra book devices, laptops, desktops, workstations and all-in-one PCs.

To defend against identity theft, Intel introduced Intel Identity Protection Technology with public key infrastructure (Intel IPT with PKI) into Intel Core vPro processors. The technology provides a new second layer of authentication embedded into the PC that allows websites and business networks to validate that a legitimate user is logging in from a trusted PC by using a private key stored in a PC’s firmware. Intel has been working with solution providers and online Web properties such as Feitian, InfoSERVER, Symantec and VASCO to take advantage of Intel IPT technology to ultimately safeguard users’ identity.

The latest version of the Intel Core vPro Processor platform also features Intel OS Guard and Intel Secure Key. Intel Secure Key, with Intel® AES New Instructions, protects media, data and assets from loss, while Intel OS Guard detects and prevents malware.

Strengthened security from the Intel Core vPro processor platform and McAfee* includes tools such as ePO Deep Command and allow for secure data exchange across increasingly connected ecosystems such as healthcare where doctor’s offices share sensitive information with labs and hospitals.

The Intel Core vPro Processor family includes Intel Active Management Technology (Intel AMT) to remotely manage computing issues. Businesses in a range of industries can use Intel AMT to achieve power savings, remote management and inventory control. For example, retailers with point-of-sale machines, digital signs or other intelligent devices can remotely diagnose and quickly fix problems over their network so customer transactions are not interrupted and sales are not lost. With a typical IT service call averaging $200 in a retail environment, large-scale retailers can save millions of dollars in service calls with the ability to remotely manage thousands of systems using Intel AMT.

Industrial computing systems can also use 3rd generation Intel Core processors to consolidate multiple automation functions onto one platform so factories can achieve greater efficiencies in managing all devices and systems. Once all devices and systems are connected, factory managers can collect real-time data for decision making, diagnosis and predictive maintenance.

The 3rd generation Intel Core vPro processors continue to enhance the computing experience in all areas, including the use of business intelligence and big data. The 3rd generation Intel Core vPro processors put greater performance in the hands of more information workers, giving them the ability to access and glean insights from all the information accumulating in their data banks, right on their PC. With the power to handle and manipulate this information faster, familiar PC tools such as Excel are evolving to support this process of creating, collaborating and sharing big data insights.

The performance improvements also provide the processing power needed to run real-time analytics applications such as Intel Audience Impression Metrics Suite (Intel AIM Suite). Intel AIM Suite is an audience detection technology designed for digital signs and retail solutions that need instant metrics gathering to offer more targeted advertising and advanced measurement.

Adobe today announced findings from its most recent Adobe Digital Index report examining how global website traffic and engagement differ when the visitor is on a tablet, smartphone or personal computer (PC). The report found that tablet devices will generate more Web traffic than smartphones by early 2013 and that consumers find browsing websites on tablets nearly as engaging as on PCs.

The results indicate that tablets have become a channel very distinct from smartphones. While apps have proven a highly valuable and important component of a mobile strategy, companies would be well served to invest in optimizing mobile Web pages for the growing and affluent tablet demographic. Key report findings include:

The share of website visits from tablets grew approximately 10 times faster than the rate for smartphones in the first two years after market introduction and grew more than 300 percent in the last year. This rapid growth is driven by both higher rates of tablet shipments and a disproportionately higher number of website visits per tablet than smartphones.
Tablets’ share of website traffic will exceed smartphone traffic by early 2013 and reach 10 percent of total website traffic in 2014.
Although consumers consider the tablet website experience to be nearly as engaging as that of PCs, they use PCs to visit websites three times as frequently as tablets.

“As businesses rethink their digital experiences to include mobile strategies, tablets are emerging as the consumer device of choice,” said Brad Rencher, senior vice president and general manager, Digital Marketing Business, Adobe. “Digital CMOs are wise to take a mobile first approach to optimize their digital content and marketing initiatives with a focus on the tablet experience because the consumer demands it.”

This study significantly expands on the findings from the initial Adobe Digital Index report on the value of tablet users to retail companies released in January of this year, which suggested that in 2011 tablet users spent more per purchase than other online customers. This study analyzed 23 billion visits to the websites of 325 companies from the North America, Western Europe (Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom) and Asia (China, India, South Korea, New Zealand, Singapore, Taiwan, and Thailand).

Incoming search terms:

• jumptap (1)

Toshiba today announced that its Canvio 3.0 and Canvio Basics 3.0 portable hard drives will now offer consumers up to 1.5 terabytes1 of storage and Mac compatibility, without the need for reformatting, on a select Canvio 3.0 model. All of these offerings come equipped with USB 3.0 technology for higher data transfer speeds and enable consumers quickly and easily store, transfer and back up their valuable data.

Canvio 3.0:
Toshiba’s Canvio 3.0 is a stylish and portable storage device that addresses a variety of storage needs. Featuring up to 1.5TB of storage, the Canvio 3.0 has the capacity to back up consumers’ entire computer systems and data transfer speeds are now faster than ever with the inclusion of USB 3.0 technology. Additionally, the 1.5TB solution includes a NTFS driver for Mac computers that allows users to easily swap data between Macs and PCs without having to reformat the drive.

The Canvio 3.0 also comes equipped with software that provides file, folder and full system back-up and recovery. Users can run a full system backup and file/folder backup simultaneously, as well as pre-set their back-up sessions using an easy scheduling feature. It also offers a free 30-day trial for its Cloud-enabled back-up feature.

To ensure maximum data protection, the Canvio 3.0 has a unique internal shock sensor and ramp loading technology to safeguard consumers’ valuable data against accidents and drops. Available in a variety of colors, including black, silver, white, red, blue and green, this storage device is the perfect marriage between style and powerful data protection.

Canvio Basics 3.0:
The Canvio Basics 3.0 is Toshiba’s simplest storage solution. There is no software setup necessary and the device is ready to use right out of the box, allowing users to simply plug it into their PC and start saving their digital files. The Canvio Basics 3.0 offers up to 1.5TB of storage and supports USB 3.0 for rapid transfer speeds. Similar to the Canvio 3.0, the Canvio Basics 3.0 is also equipped with a special internal shock sensor and ramp loading technology to protect consumers’ files against accidents and drops.

Pricing for the Canvio 3.0 line will range from $119.99 MSRP2 to $199.99 MSRP. The 1.5TB solution, which includes the NTFS driver for Mac compatibility, will be available for $199.99 MSRP, while the 1.0TB offering will be available for $149.99 MSRP, the 750GB will be available for $129.99 MSRP and the 500GB will be available for $119.99 MSRP.

Pricing for the Canvio Basics 3.0 line will range from $109.99 MSRP – $180.99 MSRP. The 1.5TB solution will be available for $189.99, the 1.0TB will be available for $139.99 MSRP, the 750GB will be available for $119.99 MSRP and the 500GB will be available for $109.99 MSRP.

All of these products will be available in select retail locations and on ToshibaDirect.com in early June 2012.

Blizzard Entertainment announced that Diablo III, the highly anticipated next chapter in its award-winning action–role-playing-game series, is now available in retail stores throughout the U.S., Canada, Europe, South Korea, Southeast Asia, Australia, New Zealand, and the regions of Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macau. Gamers in the regions above as well as in Mexico, Argentina, Chile, and Brazil are also able to purchase Diablo III digitally via the game’s official website (http://www.diablo3.com).

In the wake of a Blizzard record of more than 2 million preorders, and following more than 8,000 midnight launch events earlier today at retail stores worldwide, gamers across the planet are now storming Sanctuary in hot pursuit of the Lord of Terror.

“This launch is a culmination of many years of hard work by our development team, and many years of passionate, dedicated support from gamers around the world,” said Mike Morhaime, CEO and cofounder of Blizzard Entertainment. “We’re grateful for the enthusiasm of our players, and for the help of our beta testers in getting the game ready for release. Now that Diablo III is live, we hope everyone’s ready to have a hellishly good time slaying demons and collecting loot in Sanctuary.”

Diablo III is available for Windows XP/Windows Vista/Windows 7 and Macintosh at a suggested price of $59.99 USD for both the retail DVD-ROM version and the digital version sold directly from Blizzard. A special alabaster-white Collector’s Edition, sold exclusively in retail stores while supplies last at a suggested price of $99.99 USD, includes the game on DVD-ROM, a behind-the-scenes Blu-ray/DVD two-disc set, the Diablo III soundtrack CD, a 208-page Art of Diablo III book, and a 4 GB USB soulstone (including full versions of Diablo II and Diablo II: Lord of Destruction) and corresponding Diablo skull base, as well as exclusive in-game content for Diablo III, World of Warcraft, and StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty. Diablo III has received a Mature rating from the ESRB.

Players in the Latin American countries listed above and in Russia will be able to purchase Diablo III at local retail locations starting June 7. Digital availability via http://www.diablo3.com for the Russian version of the game will also begin June 7. In addition to the English version, Diablo III is fully localized into Latin American Spanish, Brazilian Portuguese, French, German, European Spanish, Italian, Polish, Russian, Korean, and traditional Chinese.

Diablo III continues the epic Diablo storyline, with players taking on the role of one of five heroic characters — barbarian, witch doctor, wizard, monk, or demon hunter — and embarking on an epic quest to save the world of Sanctuary from the corrupting forces of the Burning Hells. As players adventure through rich and varied settings, they’ll engage in pulse-pounding combat with hordes of monsters and challenging bosses, grow in experience and ability, acquire artifacts of incredible power, and meet key characters who’ll join them in battle or aid them in other ways. The game features the intuitive interface, fast-paced action, and visceral gameplay that Diablo players have come to expect and enjoy.

Designed from the ground up to leverage the full functionality of the Battle.net® platform, Diablo III also provides gamers with industry-leading matchmaking and communication tools, allowing adventurers to seamlessly join forces for cooperative play. Battle.net also provides the infrastructure for the Diablo III auction house, a feature-rich marketplace that Sanctuary’s heroes can use to trade their hard-earned treasures. To learn more about the auction house and the other features of Diablo III, please visit the official website at http://www.diablo3.com.

Incoming search terms:

• diablo 3 skull base (1)

Sprint once again emerged in the number one spot among major wireless carriers for customer satisfaction, according to results from the 2012 American Customer Satisfaction Index.

Released today, the ACSI survey also shows that Sprint is the number one most improved company in customer satisfaction, across all industries, over the last four years. Additional findings from the study include:

The ACSI survey finds wireless customers continue to feel a greater sense of loyalty to Sprint. Sprint is unbeaten among national carriers for the highest rating in customer loyalty among national carriers and is the only national carrier to see consistent improvement in this area since 2010.
Sprint was also cited in the ACSI survey as number one in call center satisfaction. Concurrently, Sprint recorded its lowest level of calls to customer care per postpaid subscriber on record during the first quarter of 2012.
Sprint is the only company across all 47 industries measured in the ACSI to improve its customer satisfaction from last to first in the period of 2008-2012.
“Not only to come from last place to first place in our industry, but to be the most improved U.S. company, period, over the last four years in the ACSI survey is a testament to the relentless focus the people of Sprint have placed on serving our customers,” said Dan Hesse, Sprint CEO.

Frontline Sprint employees are enthusiastic about serving the needs of customers and resolving issues.

“I simply try to do the best I can and make sure I’ve gotten everything done,” said Virgil Bosley, specialist-Customer Care, Lenexa, Kan. “Getting recognition from our customers makes me feel like we’re doing the right thing. It might be small steps sometimes, but it tells me we’re heading in the right direction.”

“What I preach to all of my team is to treat customers like they’re family members,” said Alex Alum, store manager-South Miami Beach, Fla. “The better a customer feels when they leave the store, the more referral business they’re going to bring to us. And long-lasting relationships come from great customer service.”

In addition to ACSI, other independent third-parties have also recognized Sprint in customer service:

Sprint was ranked by J.D. Power and Associates highest among full-service providers in its 2012 Wireless Purchase Experience Study, Volume 1.
Boost Mobile was ranked highest among non-contract providers in the same study and Virgin Mobile USA received the highest ranking in the J.D. Power and Associates 2012 Wireless Customer Care Non-Contract Study – Volume 1, with Boost placing second.
Last month, Sprint Wholesale collected four 2012 Domestic Best-In-Class Awards from ATLANTIC-ACM in the categories of Network, Provisioning, Customer Service and Sales Representatives.

Sprint also received the ATLANTIC-ACM Best-in-Class Network Award for Global Wholesale Excellence earlier this year, and Frost & Sullivan identified Sprint as an excellent example of an end-to-end mobile solution provider for the small business sector.
The American Customer Satisfaction Index is a national economic indicator of customer evaluations of the quality of products and services available to household consumers in the United States. The overall ACSI score factors in scores from more than 225 companies in 47 industries and from government agencies over the previous four quarters. The Index was founded at the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business and is produced by ACSI LLC. ACSI can be found on the Web at www.theacsi.org.

LifeSize announced its Unity Series, including LifeSize Unity 50 and LifeSize Unity 500. These sleek, all-in-one HD video conferencing solutions are designed specifically for simple setup and ease of use, enabling companies of all sizes to reap the benefits of HD telepresence without the hefty price tag or the need for a room makeover.

Traditionally, telepresence solutions require various components for optimal functionality, including a video system, mounted display, audio device (such as a micpod or phone), and camera as well as furniture and coordinating room makeovers for uniformity in each office. The LifeSize Unity Series removes the complexity from this model by offering an integrated solution that takes only minutes to assemble without the use of tools and without sacrificing quality. This new product line boasts best-in-class video, audio and presentation capabilities elegantly designed and powered by superior LifeSize video technology as its engine. Easy to deploy or redeploy anywhere, the Unity Series provides global uniformity for a consistent user experience across sites.

“With the LifeSize Unity Series, the telepresence experience is now in reach for companies of all sizes,” said Michael Helmbrecht, vice president and general manager of video solutions at LifeSize. “Let’s face it, businesses need to speed decision making and improve productivity across the entire organization. By creating a series of products optimized to provide a telepresence-class experience, yet simple to deploy and use, we are making HD video conferencing easier than ever to bring to every home office, executive office or conference room. For companies who need to conserve their IT resources or have traditionally thought video conferencing was too complex or expensive to deploy, the wait is over.”

LifeSize Unity 50 is a True HD 720p30 tabletop or wall-mounted solution with a 24” LED display for executive offices, small workspaces and home offices. Engineered with simplicity in mind, the LifeSize Unity 50 is ideal for companies who want to deploy the telepresence experience quickly, requiring only two cables for quick plug-and-play setup. LifeSize Unity 50 is powered by LifeSize Passport.

LifeSize Unity 500 provides Full HD at 1080p30 with a 40” LED display. Ideal for executive offices and small meeting rooms, the solution provides immersive video communications in an all-in-one turnkey system, requiring no tools and can be assembled in fewer than 10 minutes. LifeSize Unity 500 is powered by LifeSize® Express 220.

LifeSize Unity 50 is globally available today and starts at approximately $3,999 U.S. MSRP.
LifeSize Unity 500 is globally available today and starts at approximately $19,999 U.S. MSRP.
LifeSize Unity 50 and LifeSize Unity 500 are the first in a line of innovative products in the LifeSize Unity series. Additional products within the series will be announced within the coming year.

Nokia has today unveiled two new mobile phone models as it continues to accelerate its strategy to connect the next billion consumers to information and the internet. The Nokia 110 and Nokia 112 have been designed to appeal to young, urban consumers who want to experience a fast, affordable online experience.

Both devices are perfect for communicating across Facebook, Twitter and social media networks. The internet experience is also smooth thanks to the Nokia Browser. This innovative technology allows users to consume less data by up to 90%, by compressing websites in the cloud. Both devices offer direct access to Facebook and Twitter from their home screens. The Nokia 112 also features preloaded eBuddy instant messaging service right out of the box, so users can use popular chat services to keep conversations going 24/7.

In common with other Nokia mobile phones, consumers can choose from thousands of apps to download on the Nokia Store. With the upgraded camera, they can now customize their contacts with pictures, and share them with friends via social networks and Bluetooth.

“Today’s mobile phone users want a quick internet experience that allows them to discover great content and share it with their friends – but without being held back by high data costs,” said Mary T. McDowell, executive vice president, Mobile Phones, Nokia. “The new Nokia 110 and Nokia 112 devices combine browsing, social media, apps, world-class entertainment and long battery life to create a great package for young, urban consumers who want to do it all.”

Perfect for all-day and all-night entertainment
The devices all feature a generous 1.8″ display optimized for a great gaming experience. In the coming months, the Nokia 110 and Nokia 112 will bring free* 40 key EA Games, valued at EUR 75 if bought separately, including well known titles like Tetris®, Bejeweled®, Need for Speed(TM) The Run, Monopoly Here & Now, and SimCity(TM) Deluxe. Consumers will be able to easily access the content by clicking on the Games Gift EA icon on their home screen which will take them to the Nokia Store to download the games. Once they have accessed the offering, they will have 60 days to download the games of their choice, keeping the games forever.

Both new phones offer an improved VGA camera for sharp and clear pictures with support for up to 32GB of external memory, enough for more than 6000+ songs or 90,000 pictures. Consumers can tune into their favorite radio stations and share their favorite songs with friends over Bluetooth. The phones have been optimized to provide a long-lasting battery life, with over 10 hours of talk time and nearly a month’s standby, meaning that consumers can stay in-touch and entertained all day long.

Dual SIM capability
The Nokia 110 and Nokia 112 are both Dual SIM phones, featuring the benefits of Nokia’s unique and industry leading Easy Swap technology. This enables users to switch between SIMs quickly without having to remove their battery or turn off their phone. The Easy Swap technology can personalize and remember up to five different SIM cards, giving consumers full control over their costs.

The Nokia 110 will also be available as single SIM versions – Nokia 111 and Nokia 113, with this last one available in Europe and Eurasia only.

The estimated retail price for Nokia 110 and its single SIM versions is about EUR 35 and they are expected to start shipping in the second quarter of 2012. The estimated retail price for Nokia 112 is about EUR 38, excluding taxes and subsidies, and is expected to start shipping in the third quarter of 2012.

Incoming search terms:

• nokia 112 110 111 113 (1)

Buffalo Technology today announced that the AirStation WZR-D1800H wireless router and WLI-H4-D1300 wireless media bridge are now available for purchase from select retail partners. Based on Broadcom’s 5G WiFi chips and first unveiled on the show floor at the 2012 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, WZR-D1800H and WLI-H4-D1300 offer speeds up to three times faster than 802.11n and are fully backward compatible with 802.11a, 11b, 11g and 11n to ensure interoperability with legacy devices.

Operating in the 5 GHz spectrum, 802.11ac offers transfer speeds up to 1300 Mbps, ideal for uninterrupted HD video streaming and concurrent Internet access. Along with gigabit speeds, Buffalo’s 802.11ac products with improved radios will feature improved reliability and produce better in-home coverage for ultra-portable devices such as tablets and smart phones. As 5G WiFi proliferates into phones and tablets, the WZR-D1800H will enable even better coverage as well as incredibly fast download times, improving the battery life of clients.

“Buffalo is again at the forefront of wireless networking, delivering the world’s first Wi-Fi router leveraging 802.11ac technology in a cost-effective, high performance package,” said Hajime Nakai, chief executive officer at Buffalo Technology (USA), Inc. “Along with Broadcom, we continue to demonstrate our commitment to innovation by providing a no-compromise, future proofed wireless infrastructure for consumers’ digital worlds.”

“5G WiFi will improve the HD video streaming experience with its higher speeds, enhanced range and increased reliability,” said Michael Hurlston, Broadcom’s SVP and GM of the Wireless Combo Connectivity line of business. “Buffalo Technology’s products using Broadcom’s chipsets give consumers the fastest, most robust wireless networking solutions available.”

Creating a sanctuary of wireless connectivity, the Buffalo AirStation AC1300 / N900 Gigabit Dual Band Wireless Router WZR-D1800H provides a dependable, high quality signal for simple syncing between mobile devices, data-heavy streaming of HD movies from online services and everything in between. AirStation WZR-D1800H boasts amazing speeds up to 1300 Mbps on the 5 GHz band, and it integrates a class leading 2.4 GHz 3×3 802.11n radio providing backward compatibility and offering speeds up to 450 Mbps. With a total aggregate wireless throughput up to 1750 Mbps across the 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz bands, AirStation WZR-D1800H frees consumers from the conventional networking restrictions of wired Ethernet cables, wireless network bottlenecks and other radio activity, providing the ultimate in wireless performance. Available at a price comparable to current Wireless-N solutions, WZR-D1800H provides fast, simultaneous dual band N900 operation for compatibility with current wireless devices with the future proofed security of next generation wireless networking, 802.11ac, built in.

In conjunction with WZR-D1800H, Buffalo is shipping the AirStation AC1300 / N450 4-Port Gigabit Dual Band Wireless Ethernet Bridge WLI-H4-D1300, a versatile dual band media bridge that extends the capabilities of wireless networks. Consumers can now connect up to four network-enabled wired devices, such as media players and gaming consoles to their 802.11ac network. Equipped with two wireless radios, WLI-H4-D1300 supports 802.11ac and 802.11n, operating in the 5 GHz or 2.4 GHz spectrum. On the 5 GHz band, 802.11ac offers transfer speeds up to 1300 Mbps, ideal for faster, uninterrupted HD video streaming and concurrent Internet access from other connected devices. Dual band 802.11n operation at 450 Mbps on each band offers greater bandwidth for high speed access and streaming from multiple devices simultaneously. With four gigabit Ethernet ports and backward compatibility with 11a, 11b, 11g and 11n, WLI-H4-D1300 offers extreme performance for high speed data streaming.
Source: PR Newswire (http://s.tt/1bDtJ)

Incoming search terms:

• Buffalo AirStatio WZR-D1800H (1)
• WZR-D1800H and WLI-H4-D1300 (1)