Sunday 23 January 2011

Nintendo 3DS - First look official video from Nintendo UK

Interesting next handheld console from Nintendo here, the 3DS. A natural progression from their previous models, or a serious attempt to be the leader and put innovative next generation technology into their consoles again. I like this idea, the 3D concept and for this device the parallax barrier 3D technology suits a small single user device such as this perfectly as the user usually has their head in a single place while viewing the screen. The twin 3D cameras on the outside case is a nice touch, but it's crying out for 3D inner cameras too so it could do face to face 3D video chat! Perhaps that's for the 3DSXL or whatever the next slightly better version's going to be. This is probably a precursor to the Wii2 which will more than likely have 3D output capability via HDMI like the XBOX and PS3 are already capable of. It will be interesting to see how well this does. The console is released on the 25th March 2011, and is looking like it will retail in the UK for around £230.





Saturday 22 January 2011

Sony introduces world’s first digital still cameras with Full HD progressive video, dual recording and 3D still image capture

Top models add 16.2-Megapixel Exmor R™ CMOS Sensor; Cyber-shot™ TX100V debuts OLED touch screen
WX7_11

Sony today unveils five new Cyber-shot™ digital still cameras that make it easy to achieve DSLR-like quality still images, stunning 3D photos and high-quality Full HD videos.
Sony has designed five new innovative 16.2-megapixel Cyber-shot™ cameras (models DSC-TX100V, DSC-TX10, DSC-HX7V, DSC-WX10 and DSC-WX7) that are the world’s first compact digital still cameras to include 3D Still Image™ mode, for taking 3D images using only one lens and imager. In addition, the Cyber-shot™ TX100V is the world’s first still compact digital camera to offer Full HD (1920 x 1080/50p) progressive video shooting for silk-smooth reproduction of fast-moving action.
The TX100V is also the first Cyber-shot™ camera from Sony with an 8.8cm (3.5-inch) OLED touch screen that provides deeper blacks and rich colours, while being thinner and offering a faster response time than most LCDs – a feature that’s especially useful when shooting movies. Additionally, the WX10 is one of the only digital still cameras to include a high speed linear focus feature that provides quicker, more precise focusing that’s comparable to the speed of a DSLR camera.
Advanced Video CaptureCapturing no less than 50 Full HD (1920 x 1080) progressive frames per second (‘50p’), the Cyber-shot™ TX100Vdigital camera assures even smoother video playback with sports and other fast-moving action. The DSC-TX10, DSC-HX7V, DSC-WX10 and DSC-WX7 cameras record crystal-clear movies at 50i in 1080 AVCHD.
Separate buttons are provided for shooting video and stills, and ‘Dual Rec’ mode allows simultaneous capture of crisp still images without interrupting video recording. (Dual Rec is not supported in 50p mode).
Create Personal 3D ContentSony makes it easy to create personal 3D content that can be viewed on a 3D TV home theatre system. 3D images can be captured using 3D Sweep Panorama™ mode or the new 3D Still Image mode. In 3D Still Image mode, the 3D digital camera takes two consecutive shots in different focus positions to calculate the depths, creating left-eye and right-eye images to produce a 3D effect. Images can be enjoyed in 2D or stunning 3D on compatible 3D televisions like the new BRAVIA KDL-HX820 (3D-compatible HDMI cables and 3D active shutter glasses are also required).
The cameras also include the 3D Sweep Panorama™ feature, which lets you take panoramic pictures in one press-and-sweep motionThe high-speed burst of frames is stitched together to automatically create detail-packed 3D panoramas.
These cameras will let you view images in a whole new way. Unlike 3D Sweep Panorama™ mode, which lets you view your 3D images on compatible 3D television systems, Sweep Multi Angle™ lets you view images moving in simulated 3D on the camera screen simply by tilting the camera back and forth. This shooting feature captures 15 images at different angles, compiling them to create a 3D-like effect on the display.
Easy Menu Selection TechnologyWith improved Superior Auto™ and Intelligent Auto™ modes, all new Cyber-shot™ Sony digital camera models can automatically recognize a wide range of common shooting situations, combining up to six high-speed exposures of the scene to produce a single image with greater clarity, optimum dynamic range and lower image noise.
Easily accessible from the cameras’ menu button, an In-Camera Guide lets users get on-screen help without thumbing through paper instruction manuals. (In-Camera Guide is not available for W510 and W530 models).
Background Defocus mode rapidly shoots two frames at different focus settings, combining them to create a single DSLR-style image with your subject in sharp focus against a smoothly defocused background. Soft Skin mode reduces visible blemishes and wrinkles, while Natural Flash corrects colour balance for more natural shots. All five cameras also offer super-fast capture at 10fps at full 16.2-megapixel resolution.
With a Sony G lens with 10x optical zoom in a compact camera body, the Cyber-shot™ HX7V Sony digital cameraoffers built-in GPS and Compass which records the location and direction of where photos were taken. The WX10 features a 7x, bright F2.4 24mm wide angle lens and the Hi-Speed Linear AutoFocus feature, and the DSC-WX7 camera has a 5x 25mm wide angle lens for capturing the perfect group shot or landscape.
The DSC-TX100V, DSC-TX10, DSC-HX7V, DSC-WX10 and DSC-WX7 cameras are the first Sony Cyber-shot™ with an improved HDR (High Dynamic Range) feature that compiles highlights, mid-tones and shadows from three separate shots to create one realistic-looking photo, even in difficult lighting conditions.
DSLR SpeedWith the new Hi-Speed Linear AutoFocus feature, the Cyber-shot™ WX10 makes it easy to focus on your subject with DSLR-like speed. Instead of a mechanical gear to drive the AutoFocus, the DSC-WX10 has a magnetic coil (like those used in an audio speaker) to move the lens linearly and achieve AutoFocus in a straight back-and-forth motion—not rotationally.
Durable designThe 16.2 megapixel Cyber-shot™ TX10 digital camera is water-proof, shock-proof, dust-proof and freeze-proof, and offers HD movie and 3D photo capture, plus Intelligent Sweep Panorama™, an Exmor R™ CMOS sensor that promises crisp, clear photos even in low light and a 7.5cm (3-inch) touch screen.
Water-proof in up to 5m of water, the TX10 lets you take high-quality photos, including panoramic pictures, and Full HD 1080i videos of your friends, family or pets underwater. From the tropics to the top of the mountain, the camera is also freeze-proof down to -10 degrees C, so you can take pictures on your next snowbound adventure.
Not only is good to go in chilly weather, but the sleek TX10 is durable enough to withstand an accidental drop from up to approximately 1.5m. Additionally, it is dust-proof thanks to its airtight construction, so you can take it with you wherever the dust might kick up.
All new Cyber-shot™ digital camera models are compatible with the latest range of premium-quality SDHC cards by Sony. The perfect partner for your Cyber-shot™, they’re also a great match for SD/SDHC-compatible cameras, camcorders and devices from other manufacturers. The affordable Essential Series and value-added Experience Series are joined by the flagship Expert Series (Class 10) for photo users who demand class-leading capacity and transfer speeds.
All new Cyber-shot models will be available in a range of colours from March 2011.

Friday 21 January 2011

Panasonic presents Blu-ray Recorders with Twin 'Freeview+HD' Tuners

DMR-BW880EBK & DMR-BW780EBK are leading the way into the HD age


Twin 'Freeview+HD' Terrestrial Tuners

Panasonic debuts two new DIGA Blu-ray Disc™ recorders in the UK. The DMR-BW880EBK and BW780EBK with Freeview+HD. Both Blu-ray Disc™ Recorders feature twin HD terrestrial tuners, which enable customers to record digital broadcasts in full-HD quality. Besides their ability to record two digital broadcasts at the same time, the twin HD tuners also allow users without a digital TV to watch a digital broadcast and record it simultaneously. 5.1-channel surround sound (Dolby Digital or Dolby Digital Plus) signal and subtitles that are included in digital broadcasts can also be recorded, allowing users to enjoy surround sound and subtitles during playback.

High Definition Recording

These Blu-ray Disc™ recorders also record onto a dual-layer Blu-ray DiscTM, and they come with an SD memory card slot, making it easy to view motion (AVCHD format) and still images captured with an HD camcorder or digital still camera. All models also feature an HD Archiving function that makes it possible to save beautiful Full-HD images from an SD memory card onto the built-in hard disk drive and a Blu-ray DiscTM. Also, in addition to a High Speed Copying function, a DR File Conversion function makes it possible to convert TV programmes recorded in DR mode on HDD into HG, HX, HE, HL or HM mode (High Definition). This greatly shortens the time required to archive recorded programmes in HDD onto BD-RE or BD-R.

Easy to use graphical interface

The graphical user interface (GUI) has also become easier to use. More functions can now be accessed from the top menu, and an operating guide is displayed to help users to quickly find the function they want. The title of the selected content is displayed in an enlarged view, making it easier to confirm the selection.

High Quality Imaging

Image-enhancing features include the PHL Reference Chroma Processor Plus for Blu-ray Disc™ content, which reproduces films with colours that are exceptionally faithful to the original. The combination of the Blu-ray Disc™ software encoding technology cultivated by the Panasonic Hollywood Laboratory (PHL) and the decoding technology accumulated by Panasonic has led to the development of the “PHL Reference Chroma Processor Plus," a high quality image technology for faithfully reproducing film content. For standard definition DVDs as well as 1080i and less sources, the P4HD renders progressive images superbly, expresses motion smoothly, and draws crisp diagonal lines.
DLNA Certified

DLNA Home Network

The Blu-ray Disc™ recorders are equipped with DLNA server functionality. By connecting to LAN and with compatible DLNA client device, the recorded programmes, AVCHD and JPEG files archived on DIGA’s hard disc drive can be enjoyed in a separate room. Also by connecting the DMR-BW880/BW780 to the Internet, VIERA CAST lets the user view videos on YouTubeTM, Web-based photos on PicasaTM, stock information on Bloomberg, news on Tagesschau as well as the weather forecast. BD-Live also allows Blu-ray Disc™ bonus content to be downloaded and Internet games to be played. For superior audio quality, the Blu-ray Disc™ recorders use the HD Audio codec based on the Blu-ray DiscTM standards to decode Dolby TrueHD or DTS-HD Master Audio Essential for up to 7.1-channel output.

Wide networking possible

These Blu-ray Disc™ recorders are built for wide, easy networking too. The VIERA Link function allows operation via a VIERA remote control. Design-wise, the depth of the new models is 76 mm slimmer than the previous models, providing a great match for today's stylishly slim TV racks. Materials for the recorders themselves and for packaging have also been reduced, making it possible to raise transport efficiency for environmental friendliness. With their superior recording ability, outstanding image and sound quality, wide networking, easy operation and environmentally friendly design, the DMR-BW880/BW780EBK debut as high-performance recorders perfectly suited to the HD age.

Also introducing a new Panasonic High Definition DVD Recorder with Freeview+HD

Panasonic introduces a new DIGA video recorder, the DMR-XW380 with Freeview+HD offering users twin HD terrestrial tuners which enables customers to record digital broadcasts in full-HD quality. Besides its ability of recording two digital broadcasts at the same time, the twin HD tuners allow users without a digital TV to watch a digital broadcast and record it simultaneously. Users can enjoy surround sound and subtitles during playback, enabled by the 5.1-channel surround sound (Dolby Digital or Dolby Digital Plus) signal and subtitles that can also be recorded.
SD memory card slot

SD Memory Card Slot

The DMR-XW380 is equipped with an SD memory card slot, making it easy to view motion (AVCHD format) and still images captured with an HD camcorder or digital still camera. The recorder also features an HD Archiving function to save Full-HD images from an SD memory card onto the built-in hard disk drive. In addition to a High Speed Copying function, a DR File Conversion function can convert TV programmes recorded in DR mode on HDD into HG, HX, HE, HL, or HM mode (High Definition) DIGA compresses the recorded programmes at a lower bitrates but retain its high definition resolution, which takes up less space on the hard disc drive without compromising on picture quality as much.

More functions go along with easy handling

The graphical user interface (GUI) has been revised for easy use. More functions can now be accessed from the top menu, and an operating guide is displayed to help users quickly find the desired function. The title of the selected content is displayed in an enlarged view to facilitate the selection.

The High Definition Chroma Processor enables crisper, sharper videos with excellent detail on DVD and recorded programmes on HDD. With High Definition Chroma Processor, Colour reproduction becomes faithful to the original picture. Also the P4HD can render progressive images superbly, expresses motion smoothly, and draws crisp diagonal lines.

The DMR-XW380 is equipped with a DLNA server functionality. By connecting to LAN and with compatible DLNA client device, the recorded programmes AVCHD and JPEG files archived on DIGA’s hard disc drive can be enjoyed in a separate room. Also by connecting the DMR-XW380 to the Internet, VIERA CAST lets the user view videos on YouTubeTM, Web-based photos on PicasaTM, stock information on Bloomberg, news on Tagesschau as well as the weather forecast.

Easy networking and environmental friendliness

The DMR-XW380 features VIERA Link functionality. Hence, operation can be carried out via a VIERA remote control for wide and easy networking. In matters of design the depth of the new model has been flattened about 76 mm in comparison with our previous models in order to provide a great match for today's stylishly slim TV racks. Materials for the recorder itself and for packaging have also been reduced, making it possible to raise transport efficiency for environmental friendliness. With its superior recording ability, outstanding image and sound quality, wide networking, easy operation and environmentally friendly design, the DMR-XW380 debuts as high-performance recorder perfectly suited to the HD age.

Thursday 20 January 2011

New VAIO F Series brings your 3D world to life: Full HD 3D Blu-ray Disc notebook with one-touch 3D button

  • 3D entertainment notebook with 3D Blu-ray Disc™
  • 16.0” (40.6cm) Full HD VAIO Display Premium brings entertainment to life in 3D
  • Switch instantly between 3D and 2D at the touch of a button
  • Convert your 2D movies and videos to 3D
  • Realistic surround sound with S-Force Front Surround 3D and Inbox bass-reflex speakers
  • Fast data transfers with USB 3.0
VAIO F Series

Get ready for an amazing 3D HD entertainment experience with the new VAIO® F Series 3D laptop PC from Sony.
Slip on a pair of active shutter glasses – the same as used with your BRAVIA® 3D TV. Then let new VAIO F Series immerse you in an exciting world of 3D movies, games, videos and panoramic photos.
The 16.0” (40.6cm) Full HD VAIO Display Premium brings entertainment to life with a brilliant 3D image that’s optimised for comfortable, flicker-free viewing.
In contrast with passive polarised 3D screens, VAIO F Series uses advanced frame sequential panel technology and LED backlit control. This sophisticated technique ensures sharper, brighter images with a super-fast response time and wide viewing angle. Frame Sequential technology alternately displays Full HD (1920 x 1080) 3D images for left and right eyes at up to an extra-smooth 240fps frame refresh rate. From action movies to sports, games and more: you’ll be rewarded a more relaxed 3D experience, even after extended viewing periods.
New VAIO F Series gives more ways to enjoy your favourite entertainment. Just press the 3D button and switch in an instant between 2D and 3D viewing. ‘Native’ supported 3D content includes movies on Blu-ray Disc™, games and videos. You can also enjoy 3D panoramic still images captured with Cyber-shot™ digital cameras and α DSLR digital cameras by Sony. In addition, 2D movies on Blu-ray Disc or DVD can be instantly up-converted to simulated 3D video at the touch of a button.
The power-packed Intel® Core™ i7 processor inside new VAIO F Series takes care of all your 2D and 3D multimedia entertainment needs with ease. It’s matched with the latest high-performance NVIDIA® GeForce graphics with DX11 support for smooth, fluid Full HD video playback and gaming.
New VAIO F Series also delivers an extra dimension of audio entertainment. Enjoy music and movies in cinema-style surround sound through headphones with Dolby® Home Theater v3. S-Force Front Surround 3D technology creates a virtual 5.1 channel surround sound effect from two Inbox bass-reflex speakers. The result is powerful, realistic sound that enhances 3D and 2D content with an engaging, all-round AV experience.
New VAIO F Series is beautifully easy to use, with conveniently-placed function buttons just above the keyboard for one-touch access to handy functions. The 'ASSIST' button launches VAIO Care software to troubleshoot problems and keep your VAIO operating in top condition. The dedicated VAIO button launches Media Gallery for effortless browsing through your collection of photos, video clips and music, while touch sensitive AV playback buttons simplify navigation through your AV library.
As well as an isolation keyboard for accurate typing, new VAIO F Series includes a full-size numeric keypad for quick data entry and graphics editing. It’s complemented by an ergonomic touchpad with gesture support for a richer, more intuitive computing experience with Microsoft Windows® 7 and supported applications.
Two USB 3.0 ports support dramatically quicker data transfers than standard USB 2.0, while Bluetooth® 3.0 allows ultra-fast data connections with mobile devices.
The new VAIO F Series 3D notebook PC is available from end of February 2011.

Xperia™ arc: Android touch phone with Sony Exmor R™. Go ahead and shoot

I'm liking the phone more and more...

Wednesday 19 January 2011

The "Real" Iron Man!

Panasonic to Launch the World’s First* Ultra-Large Full HD 3D Professional Plasma Displays

Panasonic to Launch the World’s First* Ultra-Large Full HD 3D Professional Plasma Displays

Panasonic introduces to the global market ultra-large Full HD 3D PDPs to offer a variety of 3D system solutions to fulfill the need of professional users.Panasonic to Launch the Ultra-Large Full HD 3D Professional Plasma Displays
Panasonic has a wealth of experience in large-size 2D professional plasma displays; it launched a 103-inch Full HD model in 2006 and an 85-inch Full HD model in 2009, both of which have been widely praised for meeting the needs of a wide range of professional customers in applications such as digital signage and business presentation monitors. This popularity allowed Panasonic to achieve No. 1 share(*5) in the global professional flat-panel display market in the fiscal year ended March 2010.

Now, the professional Full HD 3D PDPs for which Panasonic will accept orders provide high quality Full HD 3D video on the world’s largest scale*2 for a direct-view display, as well as ultra-high picture quality 2D displays. To develop the new professional models, Panasonic has advanced its unique technologies employed in its VIERA Full HD 3D plasma televisions that were launched in the consumer market this year. The technologies include an industry-highest(*2) native contrast ratio(*6) of 5,000,000:1(*7) for overwhelming black reproduction; a high speed driving technology to achieve the PDP's full moving picture resolution(*8); and a crosstalk reduction technology(*9), a crucial requirement for producing clear and crisp 3D images.

The newly-developed ultra high-speed drive technology achieves clear and highly detailed 3D video even on the ultra-large panels, while also, the newly developed built-in "professional quality engine" has doubled the colour reproducibility with 30-bit processing in comparison to conventional models(*10). These advances allow the world’s first(*1) ultra-large Full HD 3D plasma display line-up to reproduce high quality 3D video sources accurately in a high quality and create an immersive experience that allows the audience to feel as if they were a part of the scene. The 152-inch display can even project life-size images of people. The models have also been equipped with Panasonic’s original function slots, "SLOT2.0," allowing various interfaces*11 such as DVI and HD-SDI, offering expandability to flexibly meet the needs of professional users.

Offering a variety of 3D system solutions that will lead to the creation of new businesses, Panasonic continues to fulfill the needs of professional users such as corporations, stores, amusement facilities, educational institutions, art galleries and museums.

Tuesday 18 January 2011

Panasonic Viera tablet first look

Interesting one for those with Panasonic TV's For everyone else shall we stick with the iPad...

LG introduces next Generation Smartphone design and display with LG OPTIMUS Black

New LG Optimus Black Delivers Breakthrough NOVA Display Technology in the World’s Slimmest Smartphone Device 
CES 2011
Las Vegas, 5 January, 2011 – LG Electronics (LG) announced today it will unveil a new Android smartphone, LG Optimus Black, at the 2011 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) from January 6th in Las Vegas. Providing users with a dramatically brighter 4-inch NOVA display in the world’s slimmest 9.2 mm mobile device, LG Optimus Black creates a one-of-a-kind user experience unlike anything before.

Available for the first time in the mobile market, LG Optimus Black’s NOVA display is designed to be the brightest, clearest and most readable among mobile screens with 700 nits of brightness for optimal visibility. LG Optimus Black provides users with an easier and more natural experience when browsing the web, reading emails, or writing documents with higher levels of brightness and pure white tones that deliver true black and white colours for ideal handset viewing. NOVA technology featured on LG Optimus Black also enables users to maintain visibility whether indoors or outdoors under strong sunlight.
LG Optimus Black
In addition to greater luminosity, the NOVA display on LG Optimus Black also radically reduces power consumption by 50 percent during general indoor use compared to a conventional LCD. Similarly, AMOLED consumes twice as much power as NOVA to display a full white screen, the most frequently used colour scheme for web browsing. Combined with the 1500 mAh battery of the LG Optimus Black, users will have enough power for their daily needs, even at maximum brightness settings.
Users will never be out of style with the LG Optimus Black’s ultra slim 9.2 mm design.
Making a strong visual statement, LG Optimus Black weighs only 109g and offers sleek lines and smooth edges that improve handheld grip. Tapering down to the world’s thinnest smartphone profile of 6.0 mm, LG Optimus Black’s subtle back arch helps to create the illusion of even greater slimness. Unique to the LG Optimus Black, the flush and flawless finish of the front display is achieved by innovatively hiding the Invisible Receiver behind the edges of the phone.
“We are excited to introduce this stylish new Android smartphone and expect the LG Optimus Black to play a key role in the mobile market,” said Dr. Jong-seok Park, President and CEO of LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company. “LG Optimus Black reflects our core strengths of advanced technology, in both display and design, offering the world’s brightest screen and the world’s slimmest design in an attractive and smart package.”
The LG Optimus Black also offers a set of smarter features designed for easy and faster access to important apps and content. Optimus UI 2.0 lets users directly access messages, emails and missed calls from the locked screen with just one single finger tap. The Gesture UI offers more intuitive commands, including lifting, shaking and tapping, for taking calls, entering camera mode, or enjoying music. LG Optimus Black also introduces the world’s first Wi-Fi Direct™ for quick and high-quality data transfer between mobile devices and adopts the world’s first 2MP front-facing camera.
All LG Optimus Black features are available on the Android 2.2 Froyo platform with Android 2.3 Gingerbread upgrade capability. Utilizing the 2MP front-facing camera, LG Optimus Black allows users to utilize video telephony functions of higher quality after upgrading to Android’s Gingerbread.
The LG Optimus Black will be rolled out globally in the first half of 2011.