Cow Bell Tech

Caption this!

2012-01-21T13:44:00.003-06:00

Here's mine:

Should've kept that targeting computer on, numb nuts.

http://thegreatgeekmanual.com/

George Lucas Says He Will Never Make Another Star Wars Movie

2012-01-18T18:22:00.011-06:00

I think this is some of the best news that has come out of the mouth of George Lucas in some time. Apparently George has decided not to make any more Star Wars movies because of YOU! In an interview with the New York Times, Lucas states that all the criticism about the changes he has made to the original films has hurt his feelings. Instead of listening to his fans he has lashed out at them. Check the quote:

"On the internet, all those same guys that are complaining I made a change are completely changing the movie. I'm saying: 'Fine. But my movie, with my name on it, that says I did it, needs to be the way I want it."

With that said, George states that the new movie "Red Tails" will be his last "Blockbuster" movie. I'm a huge Star Wars fan but considering what he's done to the resent movies, I can't say that this is a bad thing. I'm a reader of many of the new Star Wars books that has expanded the series well beyond the known movies, and I have to say many of those books are superior to what Lucas has come up with. In fact I have seen episodes of the TV series 'Star Wars: The Clone Wars' that were better than some of what Lucas has come up with. Lets face it, arguably the best Star Wars installment was 'The Empire Strikes Back', which happen to be the one movie that he had the least involvement with. He didn't direct it (Irvin Kershner), and although he wrote the story, it still needed to be tweaked by screenplay writers (Leigh Brackett & Lawrence Kasdan) for public consumption. Watching George's "unfiltered" work is brutal at best. But craving new Star Wars movies and a major money maker, 20th Century Fox felt compelled to allow Lucas the freedom that he had always wanted...... hence, the prequels.

And we all know how those turned out.... Major money maker, but not the soul that the originals had.

And although I am grateful to George for coming up with the Star Wars universe, my hope is that he turns over the licensing to his kids one day. Allowing them to bring in better writers that are more talented than Lucas ever was.

Sorry George..... Can't say that my feelings are hurt with that statement.

[io9]

Choose Your Side: Imperial Agent vs. Jedi Consular

2011-12-03T23:30:00.001-06:00

OK. I'm back...and I can't wait for this game. I tried the beta last weekend, and I'm officially in withdrawl. That being said...I wish I had tried Imperial Agent.

Goodbye Steve.....

2011-10-08T09:47:00.006-05:00

I just didn't know what to say......

That was my first thought when I got the news (on my iPhone) of Steve Jobs passing. The people who know me also know how I've come to respect over recent years Steve, and all of his products that Apple produced. I'm a Senior Windows Systems Engineer, and my world was built around Microsoft. I remember countless debates over the years with other Macheads about who had the better product, or who has the larger impact to the world. I was convinced that the only people who bought Apple products were elitist jerks who thought that they were somehow better because they spent more money on a computer or MP3 player.

Until my now wife bought me an iPod.

I couldn't believe how elegant it looked, how much music it could hold, and how fast it was. It was simple, and it just worked. I was sure that this would be the only Apple product that I would succumb to, and that Apple really had nothing more to offer me than this. But Steve Jobs changed my thinking, he changed my life and how I do things, he simply changed the world. I realized that Steve Jobs drive to make our lives better was the very reason that changed my mind. It wasn't about a quick turn of profits or to push Apple's stock to its highest. It was simply to change the world and how we do things. I realized that if he built a better computer, a better phone, a better tablet, that other companies would have to play catch up and it would push technology. It would make the world better!

Now the owner of several Apple products..... I get it now.

Thank you Steve Jobs!

I will miss you....

29 Year Old Woman Hears Her Voice For The First Time

2011-09-30T16:25:00.005-05:00

Sometimes you think the iPad, Android, or iPhone is the coolest tech out there. This young lady proves that those are a far cry from the coolest.

It's stuff like this is why I dig technology!!!

Check the quote:

"I was born deaf and 8 weeks ago I received a hearing implant. This is the video of them turning it on and me hearing myself for the first time :)".

So cool!!

[i09]

Tim Cook Is The New Sheriff In Town, As Steve Jobs Rides Off Into The Sunset

2011-08-27T11:13:00.009-05:00

So after having a moment to digest the Steve Jobs resignation, I've come to some conclusions about the future of Apple. The first is plain and simple...... Apple is not going anywhere. Regardless of what the naysayers think, the future of Apple is very bright. Steve Jobs laid the foundation with products that have, and will continue to change the way we interact with technology. As long as new CEO Tim Cook surrounds himself with smart innovative people who share the same drive of perfection as Jobs did, there's no reason to believe the gravy train will stop.

The trick here is not to compromise.....

That is what made Jobs better than everyone else. He wasn't just happy with competing with other tech companies. He wanted to completely change the way things were done, and he was brilliant at it. No mobile phone company executive thought the masses were interested in a phone that could bring you more than calls and email. Jobs had the foresight to understand how a phone could change the way we do things in our everyday life. The iPod changed the way we listened to music, and how we looked at physical media in general. And the iPad is set to change the landscape of mobile computers.

Steve Jobs has the knack to understand what people want is to simplify their life using technology, and bringing that to them automagicly. And this is the middle ground that Tim Cook finds himself in. Tim Cook needs to figure out how to do this, all the while keeping the "Apple Experience" with any new product that is produced under his watch. Living up to Jobs ability to be half leader and half fortune teller is a daunting task for anyone to live up to. And I certainly don't envy the job ahead of him.

But one thing is certain........ If Steve Jobs picked him as his successor, then that's good enough for me.

"The Amazing Spiderman" Trailer Hits The Net

2011-07-20T22:04:00.003-05:00

I don't think that this franchise needed a reboot, as the Sam Rami Spiderman isn't that old. I know that it's all the rage to make changes to a well known story (i.e. Star Trek), however when a story was just used in a movie less than ten years ago, I think it's a mistake. Take a look at the first trailer for "The Amazing Spiderman" and let me know if you think this has the same soul as the Sam Rami versions.

[aintitcool.com]

New Zelda commercial with Robin Williams

2011-06-16T12:40:00.001-05:00

This is actually a pretty good commercial. Reminds me of the World of Warcraft commercials with Mr. T and others. I hope more celebrities with geek cred will be chosen for future commercials.

"Star Wars: Knights of The Old Republic" Trailer Brings Light Sabers To Another Level

2011-06-07T10:58:00.005-05:00

Never really got into the "Star Wars: Knights of The Old Republic" series but wow, I might have to reconsider that thought process. I have to say that this was one of the most impressive light saber duels I've ever seen (movie or otherwise).

[Crunchgear]

WWDC Shows Off Apple's New iCloud, iOS 5, And OS X Lion

2011-06-06T15:27:00.006-05:00

So Apple had the annual WWDC which usually introduces the new iPhone. Well with all the issues that Japan is facing, it looks like we will have to wait until September for that. So Apple came up with some other goodies to get by with.

One of the biggest is iCloud which stores your music, photos, videos, apps and other files. This will allow you to enjoy most of your software and music on all of your iOS devices everywhere. Speaking of iOS, the intro of iOS 5 brings some welcome changes such as a revamp of the notification system and the use of the volume button as a shutter in the camera app. And of course Apple showed off the new OS X Lion which finally brings Full Screen Mode (what took so long) and Mission Control, which is Expose on steroids.

Take a look at all the new stuff here.

Preview Of Windows 8 Looks Hot!!!

2011-06-02T19:05:00.006-05:00

Wow!!!

The demo for the new Windows 8 has arrived and I have to say that it looks impressive. I knew that Microsoft was after a completely new look and feel for the next version of Windows, but I had no idea how far they would take it. The build looks similar to Windows phone 7, but on a much larger scale. It looks like Microsoft has finally gotten on board with the user experience being the most important part, and the interaction with their product. Something I think they have missed in the past, but with the ~~kick in the pants~~ help of Apple it looks like they have learned the error of their ways.

Think I'm ready to dump Windows 7 already.....

And I love Windows 7!!!

Nothing Like A Pissed Off Prime.... New Transformers 3 Trailer

2011-04-28T21:35:00.007-05:00

With the last Transformers movie sucking so badly, I really didn't have very high hopes for the third installment. Hopefully some of the internet buzz about this movie is true, and it at least sucks a little less than Transformers 2.

Well this trailer has given me a little more hope....

Well If It Still Matters To You....... The White iPhone

2011-04-28T14:21:00.005-05:00

Well..... Here it is Captain Ahab!!!

The elusive white ~~unicorn~~ iPhone has surfaced for your approval.....

Does anyone still care?

[Apple]

Zero Punctuation: Nintendo 3DS

2011-04-27T12:48:00.001-05:00

Yahtzee is back at it again, this time he targets Nintendo’s newest ~~gimmick~~ game console, the 3DS.

Yahtzee is a British-born, currently Australian-based writer and gamer with a sweet hat and a chip on his shoulder. When he isn't talking very fast into a headset mic he also designs freeware adventure games and has a novel coming out soon. His personal site is www.fullyramblomatic.com.

'All To Easy!!!'

2011-04-25T14:53:00.002-05:00

Not everyone wants to be a Jedi....

Take this little girl for example, as she pledges her allegiance to Darth Vader at Disneyland.

Don't think Yoda even saw this one coming.

Protean Electric stuffs an entire powertrain into your wheels

2011-04-21T13:59:00.001-05:00

You know that big noisy thing at the front of your car? If Protean Electric has its way, all of that stuff is going to get crammed into your wheels, freeing up lots of weight and enough space for a small hot tub (or anything else). It's the future, man!

Protean's electric motors are entirely integrated into a car's wheels. "Entirely integrated" means that the engine, transmission, drive shafts, differential, regenerative braking system, and all the rest of that random crap that festoons the belly of your car is all somehow shoehorned into the wheels themselves, without actually increasing their size. The only other thing that you need to have a fully operational car is a battery somewhere, but all of a sudden you've got a bunch of space at the front of your car to put it.

When installed, the wheel motors are basically indistinguishable from regular wheels, as you can see from the F-150 in the pic above. The complete systems only weigh about 70 pounds each, but they output 110 horsepower per wheel, meaning that for a car, you're looking at 0-60 in under five seconds with a top speed of 130+ mph.

The appeal of the Protean motors isn't just about making electric cars simpler and more spacious. Since the motors can basically be stuck onto any existing car just by swapping out the wheels, you can put them on existing gas powered cars, toss some batteries in the trunk, and you've got an insta-hybrid.

For the moment, Protean is only offering their motors to "qualified partners," so you can't just run out and by yourself a set. At some point in the future, though, if you want to buy a hybrid but just can't bear to part with your 1994 Volvo wagon (just to pick one random example), in-wheel motors could be a way to make that happen.

Protean, via Autoblog

Apple Store Dancers?

2011-04-15T10:35:00.005-05:00

I had no idea that there was such a phenomenon going on in Apple stores all over the country. Apparently there is a dance movement going on, where people are putting up video of themselves showing their moves (or not) in the Apple stores. YouTube has quite a few of the funniest ones, which all walks of life are hitting the dance floor. Some are trying to post a dance video from every Apple store they visit across the country.

I think what I fine most funny is that it doesn't seem to phase most of the Apple workers. They just keep on plugging away at their day, and hardly notice the unusual person making a ass clown of themselves.

That's got to say a lot about the clientele that they see every day.

Enjoy!

[Gizmodo]

Green Lantern ComicCon Trailer

2011-04-03T11:24:00.004-05:00

Well here is the ComicCon trailer for the Green Lantern that gives me a ray of hope that this movie won't suck. I still have my doubts, but at least it somewhat looks good.

Well, at least the trailer is worth your time.

Duke Nukem Forever Delayed (What Year Is This?)

2011-03-24T12:27:00.001-05:00

“Duke Nukem Forever has been delayed.” Nope, that’s not a headline from 1997, but a headline from right now. The game has been pushed back from its May release to June 14 here in the U.S.

Gearbox Software CEO Randy Pitchford, and the game’s executive producer, has made a fun YouTube video explaining the delay.

Not for nothing, but I’m pretty sure they’re running an angle. “Man, how much press will we get if we delay the game again? That would be hilarious.”

The delay is real, in other words, but done to drum up a bit of last minute interest or “wtf, lol” heat. That is my paranoid interpretation.

But good for them. What’s another month, right? At the very least it’s Gearbox we’re talking about, who generally make top-notch stuff.

[via CrunchGear]

Crysis 2 Game & Launch Trailer Drops Today

2011-03-22T12:13:00.003-05:00

Here the thing.......

Of all the cities to save in this country, I'm thinking New York wouldn't be very high on my list. But with that said, I'm looking forward to giving it a try. Crysis 2 hits the stores today, and it's said to be the best looking game to ever come to console. The launch trailer is here and by the looks of it, it very well could be graphically the best game.

Here's to hoping that the game play equals up to the looks.

[Crunchgear]

iPad 2 Parody From Conan Is Right On Target

2011-03-04T09:58:00.003-06:00

You have to give it to Conan, as he seems to hit the nail right on the head with the new video for the iPad 2. If you've viewed the original video from Apple , I'm sure you will agree that sometimes Apple takes themselves a little too seriously.

iPad2 Review

2011-03-02T22:08:00.001-06:00

Madden, What Happens if There's a Strike?

2011-03-01T23:01:00.006-06:00

A strike is looming, and the fatter cat team owners could possibly survive a two year lockout. Click here for a report.
While things might not turn out well financially for the NFL and the NFLPA come March 4th, 2011 (the day the lockout officially begins); many fans are wondering what this coming Fall will be like should America's most popular pastime is MIA?

I was thinking about all of this when suddenly, the thought occurred, "What the heck happens to the Madden video game franchise if the NFL Collective Bargaining Agreement ends and a lengthy lockout occurs?"

While analysts have talked about the amount of money that might be lost in more mainstream sectors from a lockout; not any I've seen have talked about the $788 million dollars EA Sports will lose. EA already came up short of projections $391 million in 2010. (report here) In my opinion, EA will be obviously hurt, and I'd think it would have an even greater effect on the company that makes Madden franchise EA-Tiburon.

More importantly, what happens to the gamers!?!?

Will EA-Tiburon move to an edition that only highlights the classic rosters? Could they have something up their sleeves none of us can imagine? Surely they are prepared for what's looking more and more like a lockout eventuality; but it is a difficult question that I can only speculate about.

What is your speculation?

Let's start the discussion; what do YOU think?

The Concept Atomic Helped Father the Internet

2011-02-25T11:44:00.006-06:00

In “A History of the Internet and the Digital Future” by Johnny Ryan, he writes about the exciting (if not terrifying at times) when strategic policy decisions regarding Nuclear deployment systems, redundancy, and communication systems were developed in order to insure the United States would not fail in the defense of itself.

But before the technology could be built, competing conceptual theories about just how all that could meaningfully occur in a rapid timeframe were happening in think-tanks. The now Ex Soviet Union eventually developed vaguely similar strategies; but in the early 50s, they relied on brute force and numbers to get their upper hand.

This is the story about how the U.S.took those theories they developed, and forged them into other areas that would allow every part of our world to be connected. Whether it’s medical information, scientific data between universities and schools, or even how commerce and tool die shops tie in to one another; these once specific Atomic concepts eventually morphed into what now allows women and men around the world to chat with their families and friends nearly everywhere in a fashion that is simply taken for granted by most.

This three page post found in this link, is the whole first chapter of a very enjoyable read. It is in fact the whole first chapter and a book I recommend for anyone wanting to learn how we got to the great place we are, as well as where we are going to. (and soon!)

Enjoy…

Cool (And Heart Breaking) 'Dead Island' Game Trailer

2011-02-25T09:48:00.003-06:00

One of the best and heart wrenching game trailers that I've ever seen. I'm curious if the game will equal up to the trailer.

'Dead Island' will be released later this year for the PS3 and Xbox 360.

[mania]

CBS finally bends, brings some shows to Netflix

2011-02-23T11:40:00.001-06:00

CBS today showed a rare willingness to bring its TV shows to a subscription Internet service today and gave Netflix some key content. Classic shows such as Cheers, Star Trek and Twin Peaks will now be viewable through a streaming plan, as will two newer shows, Flashpoint and Medium. The non-exclusive deal lasts for two years and has an option for a two-year renewal.

The deal is a rare branching out for CBS. It has been willing to sell episode downloads through stores such as iTunes but has been reluctant to see any of its video go beyond its own website. The studio is the one holdout from Hulu after ABC/Disney, Fox and NBC all either helped start the site or signed on afterwards.

[via Electronista]

CueThat: Add Any Movie On The Web To Your Netflix Queue

2011-02-22T12:59:00.001-06:00

The good people at Big Kitty Labs—a cadre of Central Ohio rapid prototypers whose various projects more resemble real products than prototypes—bring us yet another tool to make life easier…enter CueThat. CueThat is a browser plugin and bookmarklet that allows you to automagically add any movie title you find on the web to your Netflix queue. After you link the plugin to your Netflix account, it takes about 60 seconds or less to sync any new title you highlight and “Cue” with the plugin. It worked fine for me in Chrome browser and even sniffs out duplicates so you can’t add something twice. Bravo!

You may remember these guys from their previous apps like ChumpDump and ParsePlz. I love the way they think quickly and creatively to solve real UX problems in a couple of days instead of a couple of months. This is a great addition to their swiftly increasing number of relevant products.

[via CrunchGear]

The Chrome plugin works great!!!

Angry Birds prepare to take over PCs

2011-02-22T11:09:00.001-06:00

Oh, happy day! Angry Birds is now available for the PC. “But wait,” you say. “There’s no app store on Windows. How will I download it?” Don’t worry: Intel has you covered.

The game, which costs $4.99, is available on the Intel AppUp store.

The Intel AppUp store—silly name aside—is just that: an “app store” for Windows PCs.

The game is the Angry Birds you all know and love, but you can’t import any of your scores from the mobile version of the game into the desktop version.

Angry Birds on your phone, Angry Birds on your desktop. All hail Angry Birds!

[via CrunchGear]

Turning Off Friction in GTA VI is a VERY Good Thing!

2011-02-21T00:16:00.006-06:00

I have four things to say about this video.

1.) It's GTA IV material, so obviously some of the audio is NSFW.

2.) It's only funny WITH AUDIO.

3.) I am crying I'm laughing so hard.

4.) For more info on how to do this on your game, read Tom Senior's article.

at PC Magazine.

AT&T iPhone faster than Verizon in 3G tests

2011-02-18T17:02:00.001-06:00

AT&T lost its exclusivity grip on the on the iPhone 4 when Verizon started carrying the Apple device earlier this month, but if it comes as any consolation, the wireless carrier won Ookla's head-to-head broadband tests, Wired reports. You may recognize Ookla as the team behind Speedtest.net, an online broadband metric. Ookla recently turned its attention to the iPhone 4 by compiling data from iPhone users who downloaded and ran the mobile version of Speedtest.

The average download speed on AT&T, as represented by 43,000 AT&T iPhone 4 owners, was 1,769Kbps and the average upload speed was 730Kbps. The former is twice as fast as was reported by Verizon's 14,000 customers, whose average download speed was 848Kbps (average upload was 506Kbps).

"I think that's the story I expected to see," said Doug Sutties, co-founder of Ookla. "Verizon has never talked up their speed, but they always talk up their coverage and reliability. I think the story is quality versus throughput. What are you after?"

[via MaimumPC & OSXDaily]

Why Did The President Meet With The Tech Leaders?

2011-02-18T09:34:00.007-06:00

President Obama meet with some of the biggest tech leaders of the world Steve Jobs, Eric Schmidt, and Mark Zuckerberg, and you have to wonder what they talked about. Well theoatmeal.com put together what they think happened, and I have to say I got a giggle over it.

Zero Punctuation: DC Universe Online

2011-02-16T14:26:00.001-06:00

See a new Zero Punctuation review each Wednesday only at The Escapist.

And as usual, NSFW

Backstory For Crysis 2

2011-02-15T14:43:00.002-06:00

This could be the next great shooter that everyone will be playing March 25th.

Get ready for Crysis 2 my friends.

[Crunchgear]

How a song from the 2005 Civilization IV won a 2011 Grammy

2011-02-14T11:40:00.001-06:00

Civilization IV is now the first game to have won a Grammy... sort of. The game's theme music, "Baba Yetu," won a Grammy for Best Instrumental Arrangement Accompanying Vocalist(s) at Sunday's awards show, despite the game being released in 2005.

Here's how that happened. We also have the song's official video and performance at Video Games Live.

"Baba Yetu"

The song may have been used in the game during 2005, but it was released on Christopher Tin's 2009 albumCalling All Dawns, allowing it to be included in this year's Grammy Awards. While the game wasn't mentioned during the show, the song has already had a long life in gaming before Tin's album was released in stores.

The song has also enjoyed a place in the Video Games Live show. "The fact that this song has had a life outside of the game is owed almost entirely to Video Games Live. They were the first to bring this music to concert stages around the world and to places I had never dreamed possible," composer Christopher Tin stated.

"Baba Yetu" on Video Games Live

The words "Baba Yetu," mean "our father," and the song's lyrics are a Swahili translation of the Lord's Prayer. Congratulations to Christopher Tin, as a beautiful song's long journey is rewarded.

[via Ars Technica]

L.A. Noire Teaches The Fundamentals With Orientation Trailer

2011-02-11T17:44:00.001-06:00

Today, we’re pleased to provide a new L.A. Noire trailer. This is one of the first in-depth gameplay videos, directly from Rockstar Games.

“Orientation” is an overview of the game’s core mechanics from searching for clues, to the fundamentals of witness interrogation, and classic action including brawling and shootouts. Using all in-game footage, this first gameplay video in the series explains how your detective skills, intuition and cunning have the power to make or break each case.

You’ll be able to see every little detail when interrogating, right down to smirks, frowns, or other odd behavior, and then be given the choice to see if they are telling the truth, or lying.

L.A. Noire will be available May 17 on the Xbox 360.

[via 360sync]

I am getting kinda psyched about this one.

We'll See....

2011-02-11T00:49:00.008-06:00

Soon IE9 (Final) will be released; and many people are interested (not necessarily excited) about what's to come. Robert Johnson is a User Interface Developer who happens to be excited even though he gave up using IE since IE7.

His article lists 5 reasons he's looking forward to developing UI's for the upcoming release. He also lists a few caveats to watch out for.

Me? I'm going to give it a whirl with somewhat low expectations. I moved away from IE back around IE5. I was a reluctant user when the first IE was distributed, but I must admit, IE 9 is probably going to be pretty good at release. My problem is, they usually fall behind the curve pretty darn fast.

If you're the technical sort, I recommend reading the comments listed below the story for some interesting feedback.

Hopefully Microsoft will decide they want a higher user market-share than simply what comes shipped with Windows Operating Systems.

AT&T: Talk And Surf At The Same Time Ad

2011-02-05T10:28:00.003-06:00

Well...... That didn't take long.

AT&T has already put together their "mines better than yours" answer to Verizon's new commercial, and it actually makes a good point. Again, I can't tell you how many times I needed to be able to talk and pull information at the same time.

Deal breaker!!!

Yar’s Revenge Remake??

2011-02-04T16:38:00.001-06:00

I remember Yar’s Revenge back in the day. It was a very hard game. I believe I was the only one of my friends that finished it. And we used to have speed contests finishing Adventure. Now there’s an old 2D game that needs a remake. I was skeptical at first, since this game was not that popular, but it looks like they have a good idea and re-imagining going on.

Now, compare to the original.

Yar’s Revenge

"Yes... I Can Here You Now." Verizon iPhone Ad

2011-02-04T14:56:00.004-06:00

In a stunning kick to the balls move on AT&T, Verizon has begun their "mines better than yours" advertising. I knew that this would be coming and I'm looking forward to AT&T's rebuttal commercials.

I do have to say that this ad is very effective.

Is it me, or is the Verizon guy putting on a little weight?

Just saying.

Robot Bomb Squad FAIL!!

2011-02-04T14:15:00.001-06:00

I thought bomb squads used robots is to extract explosives in a safe manner. When said robot drops potentially-live grenades AND THEN RUNS OVER THEM with its treads, I don't think the robot is doing a very good job.

ROBOT FAIL!!!

The robot was put into action by the San Francisco PD yesterday when they discovered the grenades in a garage. If you skip to the 2:30 mark in the video, you can watch the robot drop a grenade onto the ground, and then at 3:40 you can see its operator direct the bot on top of the grenade, as even the news anchors can't help but ask, WTF?

[via Gizmodo]

Infographic: BlackBerry PlayBook vs. Dell Streak 7 vs. Apple iPad vs. Motorola Xoom

2011-02-03T10:43:00.001-06:00

After our in-depth Droid Bionic vs. iPhone 4 vs. Thunderbolt infographic that made its way across the web, we could not resist making another. Tablets absolutely stole the spotlight at CES 2011, making it an undoubtedly perfect time to compare the latest offerings. After some debate, we settled on these three upcoming tablets: the BlackBerry PlayBook, the Dell Streak 7, and the Motorola Xoom. For some perspective with a familiar face, we threw in the Apple iPad for reference. Even though the hardware is nearly a year old, it has butchered competition selling over 7.33 million units in just Q4 of 2010 making it the best-selling tablet on the market.

The picture is quite long and in depth. Click on it to see full image.

[via SkatterTech]

Mother Of Autistic Boy Labeled Cheater Admits Her Son May Have Cheated

2011-02-01T15:19:00.001-06:00

The mother of the autistic boy who was labeled a cheater by XBL now admits her son cheated, albeit unintentionally. Last week his mother thought the only possibility was that her son was so good at games they mistakenly thought he was cheating. Microsoft disagreed and assured both the boy's mother and the public "achievements were illegitimately modified on the account." The boy's story went viral prompting Microsoft's Xbox Live enforcement chief Stephen Toulouse to write the woman an email pointing out specifically what her son did wrong to earn the label "cheater."

The email from Microsoft read:

"The account Zombie Kill67 transferred from the Xbox it is normally seen on, to an Xbox in another city. The account earned several achievements for Halo 3 that can only be done online and in succession. It was clear they were unlocked out of order and offline. Earning successive online achievements out of order and offline is an impossible feat, not due to skill, but due to the technology of the system. It can only be done by modifying the account and faking the achievements."

The boy apparently gave out his XBL log-in info to get new armor. This is when the alleged hacking took place. Microsoft would not give back the achievements but due to the media attention the boy received they gave him a free month of Xbox Live. According to the news report, the code they gave him did not work.

There is no proof charges were made to reimburse the hacker that earned these achievements. Do hackers do pro bono hacking to help gamers in need...of achievements?

Well darn, I guess we can’t go off on how evil M$ is for this one. LOL

[via G4TV]

"What's The Internet?" Circa 1994

2011-01-29T18:20:00.003-06:00

For some reason I always thought the Internet was around for a while. Well that doesn't seem to be the case as Bryant Gumbel and Katie Couric prove that we (well, at least them) were pretty ignorant about the Internet in 1994.

It's worth a listen.

Verizon's First iPhone 4 Commercial Hits The Air

2011-01-20T20:48:00.003-06:00

I think this commercial is a little over the top for Verizon, but it is effective. What keeps going through my mind is that it wasn't to long ago Verizon was running "iDon't" ads.

My... How quickly times have changed.

This Is a Boba Fett Spartan Helmet

2011-01-15T13:09:00.001-06:00

This is a Boba Fett Spartan Helmet. No, you can’t have one. The guy who made the helmets for 300 painted this one to look like the Boba Fett helmet in Return of the Jedi. You will see nothing cooler than this today nor would you even want to.

via Technabob

And The New Spider-Man Is..........

2011-01-14T15:36:00.004-06:00

I remember back in the day when they use to wait 20 years before they would reboot a TV series or movie. Well it seems that those days are long gone, as the reboot of Spider-Man is well on its way. So the new Spider-Man is Andrew Garfield who recently stared in "The Social Network", and here is the first picture of him with his new Spider-Man suit.

Not sure if he looks the part, but he can't be any worse than Tobey Maguire.

The new Spider-Man reboot is due out on July 3rd, 2012.

[i09]

Verizon Gets iPhone 4 February 10th!!!

2011-01-11T11:06:00.004-06:00

It's here!!!

After many years of rumors and speculations, Verizon has announced that the iPhone 4 will be released on February 10th. Existing Verizon customers can pre-order the iPhone starting February 3rd. So what will be the biggest difference between the two carriers? Well outside of the better signal reception, Verizon will offer the unlimited data plan for $30, which is something that AT&T removed from their line up. Verizon will also allow up to 5 device connections to their iPhone 4 as a Wi-Fi hotspot, which is not available (outside of jailbraking) for the AT&T version.

The one killer problem for the Verizon iPhone 4 is the CDMA network. Although it has great coverage and reception, the network can only handle one data or voice stream at a time. Which means if you are surfing the net or downloading and you receive a call, the call takes precedence and will drop the data. I'm sure the next generation LTE iPhone will correct that issue, but as of now that is a deal breaker for me. I can't not count the times that I've been on a call and had to pull up important data for the person that I was talking to.

This is still a great day for many people who have always wanted an iPhone but couldn't switch to AT&T. Just keep in mind that Apple will announce a new iPhone in June as they always do, but this time it will be for both AT&T and Verizon.

Happy day, people..... Happy day.

[Crunchgear]

Real Life First Person Shooter....... Sorta...

2010-12-23T11:54:00.003-06:00

I few guys got together to give you a brilliantly recreated realistic first person shooter staged in the woods. With how realistic video games are getting, I wouldn't be surprised to see this in the not to distant future.

How sad is it that I want to play this game?

[Gawker.TV]

Net Neutrality? Everythings Coming Up Roses!!! (or so they say)

2010-12-21T14:19:00.007-06:00

Ya know, I get spooked real quickly when government entities make their long awaited decisions on ANYTHING and have a collaborative picture that looks like this.

Take a look after the jump at what our Government has put forth as their benevolent policy going forward. (click here on the government approved jump)

And please, comment and tell us your thoughts of what today's outcome means.

'Transformers: Dark of the Moon' Trailer Is Up

2010-12-09T18:31:00.003-06:00

Not sure if I'm a fan of the title, but the first trailer for 'Transformers: Dark of the Moon' is out. Better take a look quick before it's yanked off the air.

8-inch robot wreaks havoc on Denver commuters, Cylon war narrowly averted

2010-12-03T12:40:00.001-06:00

I laughed my ass off when I saw this. Reminds me of the famous ATHF scare in Boston.

The Capricans in Denver, Colorado should can consider themselves blessed by the Gods. An 8-inch tall Centurion was spotted near Coors Field park, prompting one citizen to notify the police. You probably know what happened next: adjacent 20th street was closed causing rush hour traffic to pile up, and two hours later, after being unable to determine at the time if it was safe, the bomb squad remotely detonated the little Centurion. Move along, nothing to see here. It's not like they walk among us in human form or anything. Yet.

[Denver Post via Engadget]

Is Comcast Already Undermining Net Neutrality?

2010-11-30T12:54:00.001-06:00

Comcast has plenty of reasons to not like Netflix's popular streaming service. Not only does it compete with Comcast's own video on demand services, but it does so using Comcast's internet services. But them charging an extra toll for delivering Netflix doesn't seem right.

Unfortunately, that's just what they're doing. Level 3 Communications, which helps deliver Netflix's streaming movies, has been hit with a new toll for delivering streaming video content. Essentially, this goes against the idea of net neutrality, allowing for an ISP like Comcast to favor its own content over that of another website or provider.

It's certainly a lousy precedent to set! Hopefully net neutrality will be come law soon to nip this sort of nastiness in the bud.

Read the whole article here at the NY Times.

[NY Times via Dvice]

Star Wars Talk to Your Kids PSA

2010-11-22T13:27:00.003-06:00

Ok.... I had a good laugh at this one.

If this is how you're raising your kid.......... ~~You need help.~~ Make sure you don't leave out the Clone Wars series!!!

Thanks to Artemisias for this nugget..

Netflix Offers Streaming Only Tier.... Price Hike For DVD Lovers

2010-11-22T09:46:00.005-06:00

Well it seems that the rumor about Netflix providing a streaming only tier was true. But the streaming only tier will come with a price for all other Netflix users, as the price for all other tiers are going up. The streaming only option will come in at $8 a month, but all DVD-based plans will be priced as follows:

`

Cowboys & Aliens Trailer

2010-11-17T21:18:00.006-06:00

Trailers for 2011 summer movies must be in style today, as the new trailer for 'Cowboys & Aliens' has made its way to the net. Harrison Ford and Daniel Craig star in the unique story synopsis:

1873. Arizona Territory. A stranger (Craig) with no memory of his past stumbles into the hard desert town of Absolution. The only hint to his history is a mysterious shackle that encircles one wrist. What he discovers is that the people of Absolution don't welcome strangers, and nobody makes a move on its streets unless ordered to do so by the iron-fisted Colonel Dolarhyde (Ford). It's a town that lives in fear.

But Absolution is about to experience fear it can scarcely comprehend as the desolate city is attacked by marauders from the sky. Screaming down with breathtaking velocity and blinding lights to abduct the helpless one by one, these monsters challenge everything the residents have ever known.

Now, the stranger they rejected is their only hope for salvation. As this gunslinger slowly starts to remember who he is and where he's been, he realizes he holds a secret that could give the town a fighting chance against the alien force. With the help of the elusive traveler Ella (Olivia Wilde), he pulls together a posse comprised of former opponents-townsfolk, Dolarhyde and his boys, outlaws and Apache warriors-all in danger of annihilation. United against a common enemy, they will prepare for an epic showdown for survival.

Cowboys & Aliens rides in on July 29th 2011.

[io9]

First Green Lantern Trailer Hits The Net

2010-11-17T09:21:00.003-06:00

I still remain skeptical on this one, but the trailer does look promising (how many times have I said that before). Ryan Reynolds doesn't exactly instill confidence that this will be a good movie, as the only thing I liked him in was 'Smokin' Aces' and he didn't carry that movie.

Oh well...... I guess summer of 2011 will tell the tale...

Beatles Collection Finally Comes To iTunes

2010-11-16T09:14:00.004-06:00

For all the people who still care...... The day has finally come for Beatles fans that they have all been waiting for. Apple has cut a deal and brought the Beatles massive song collection to iTunes. This I'm sure will be part of Apple's "Big Announcement" today, and if you check iTunes right now you can see there are 16 albums available. The big one being the Beatles Box Set which feature 126 songs and comes in at a cool $150.

I know that this has been a long battle that Beatles fans have been waiting to be over, but I'm not really sure why. I've always felt that the Beatles were a little over rated, and I know that people will be up in arms over that statement. Over rated doesn't mean that they're not good or worthy of praise, just not on the level that the Beatles seem to have. It seems that if you really wanted the Beatles on your iTunes all you had to do it buy the physical disk and import it into your iTunes.

There..... all done!!!

The Dipr Makes Cookie Dunking Easy

2010-11-13T11:30:00.001-06:00

Invented by Bobby and Julie Haleluk, The dipr is a nifty gadget that makes dunking cookies in milk a breeze. Simply slide a cookie onto the hook, dunk it in milk, and you're ready to snack. More information. Video after the break.

At this point, production of the dipr is still in the fundraising stage, but if you contribute over on Bobby and Julie's Kickstarter page, you can help them meet their $10,000 goal to produce the first batch of diprs.

[Technabob via TechBlog]

Personally, I’d probably come to your house and punch you in the gut if I ever found out you owned one of these. I might punch you lightly if you only purchased it for your kids though.

First Trailer of Rockstar’s L.A. Noire

2010-11-12T13:59:00.001-06:00

Edge had a big article about LA Noire several months back. It’s sort of a detective/spy game that takes place in 1940s Los Angeles. Think LA Confidential.

If this is half as good as Grand Theft Auto or Red Dead Redemption (a.k.a. Grand Theft Horse), it will be a must purchase. Maybe it’ll do what the Mafia games couldn’t.

New Tron: Legacy Trailer

2010-11-09T21:11:00.006-06:00

Oh..... Please don't suck.... Please don't suck... Please don't suck.

The new Tron: Legacy trailer....... In all of its beautiful eye candieness!!!!

This hits the grid December 17th

Apple Accused of Sabotaging Users' iPhones to Boost Sales

2010-11-06T14:34:00.001-05:00

Did Apple trick customers to force upgrades?
Apple received national criticism in 2007 when it "bricked" unlocked iPhones via an OS update, rendering the phones useless. That move led to multiple lawsuits and a firestorm of negative publicity.
Now Apple has been accused of a different kind of bricking. According to a suit filed inSuperior Court in San Diego this time around Apple used an OS update not to render useless just unlocked iPhones, but locked and unlocked models alike in a bid to force users of older iPhone models to upgrade.
The suit stems from the fact that the iOS 4 upgrade leaves the iPhone 3G unresponsive and hard to use. Despite the fact that this phenomena appears almost universal, Apple urged unwitting iPhone 3G users to upgrade to the new operating system.
States the complaint, "The true fact of the matter, as verifiable by information technology experts, is that the iOS 4 is a substantial 'downgrade' for earlier iPhone devices and renders many of them virtually useless 'iBricks'. Nonetheless, in reasonable and detrimental reliance upon Apple's false representations, false statements and false claims of full compatibility, thousands upon thousands of iPhone 3 users were intentionally misled into installing iOS 4 on their devices."
The suit notes that Apple provides users with no means to perform a re-install of an earlier operating system version. Apple's promotion of iOS 4 to iPhone 3G users when it likely knew that it would render their phones useless and that they would be unable to restore their phones, was likely a scheme to force users of older models to upgrade.
The lawsuit was filed on behalf of plaintiff Bianca Wofford, a iPhone 3G owner and is seeking class action status. Ms. Wofford recalls that after installing iOS 4, as suggested by iTunes, that her iPhone 3G'sperformance greatly suffered. She states, "While not completely disabled, the operability of the device was significantly degraded and the device was no longer reliable."
DailyTech reported on this issue with older iPhones back when iOS 4 launched. iPhone 3GS models also reportedly suffered a performance hit, though not as big a one. Apple's forums are filled with a deluge of complaints about the poor performance of iOS 4 on older model phones.
Ms. Wofford is seeking for Apple to reimburse every plaintiff in the class the cost of their phone, plus $5,000 in additional damages.
Apple would not comment to us on this lawsuit, and their standard policy is not to comment on lawsuits (which they've had more than a few of).

[via DailyTech]

Why has nobody thought of this before?

2010-11-06T14:27:00.001-05:00

Ah, mother sun: you give us maize, you give us warmth, and in the summer you give us just a little color, not too much, just maybe a little around the shoulders so we look like we went outside. Now you can charge our keyboards!

The $80 Logitech K750 is the first solar keyboard built of fully recyclable plastic. The device has a set of solar panels along the top edge and even includes a luxmeter to tell how well things are charging. It charges in sunlight and even under a standard bulb.

If you’re familiar with Logitech keyboards they usually last for months – if not years – on the same battery. This, however, will ensure that you don’t go dark in the midst of a marathon blogging session. It is also wireless.

Brilliant!!!

[Logitech via CrunchGear]

Delays For New Releases To Get Longer For Netflix

2010-11-05T13:42:00.005-05:00

When Warner Bros. announced the deal with Netflix back in January to delay new release rentals 28 days in exchange for providing more streaming content, I wasn't crazy about the idea. The deal was by delaying the rental by 28 days, it would help increase dvd and Blu-Ray sales. Well I guess it worked because Time Warner CEO Jeff Bewkes thinks they should make the consumer wait even longer. Check the quote:

"So far the 28-day window has clearly been a success versus no delay. The question of whether we ought to go longer is very much under scrutiny. It may well be a good idea."

Now considering that only 20% of Netflix library is available for streaming, I would hope that Warner Bros. and other movie houses would expand the VOD line in exchange for this. If you're going to make the consumer wait longer for new releases, Netflix and consumers should certainly get something out of the deal. I for one love the streaming feature that Netflix offers and would welcome an increased selection of movies. So long as the movie houses continue to offer more VOD content, I would welcome the delay.

[Gizmodo]

3D... Why'd It Have To Be 3D. Indiana Jones Franchise Going To 3D

2010-10-27T09:26:00.005-05:00

Behind the news of George Lucas bastardization re-release of the Star Wars movies in 3D. Now comes word that Lucasfilm will announce next month that they will destroy another classic with 3D conversion. The Indiana Jones series is next in line for the 3D assault that is being crammed down our throats. Raiders of the Lost Ark will be the first to hit theaters under the conversion, with The Temple of Doom following.

If you couldn't tell, I'm not a big fan of converting classic movies such as these to a 3D format. First and foremost I feel it cheapens the film, as movie houses try their best to squeeze every dollar from iconic movies. Second..... not ALL movies should be in 3D, especially when it doesn't enhance the story in any way. Movies like Avatar are enhanced with 3D because it added depth to a world that was developed with 3D in mind from the beginning. This isn't the case with Star Wars or Indiana Jones or The Matrix or Blade Runner or any other classic that was never meant to be in 3D.

I know that many people will go see these movies, and most will enjoy them. I guess I'm just not part of the "Greedo shot first" group who don't mind movies they love being altered. If you want to clean the movies up and put it on Blu-Ray or the latest big HD thing, I'm ok with that. But changing the structure of the film just to put it back into theaters just isn't right.

(rant off)

[Aintitcool]

First Microsoft Kinect Ad Hits The Air Waves

2010-10-21T14:58:00.008-05:00

The first ads for Microsoft Kinect have made it into the wild, and I have to say that it doesn't suck like most Microsoft ads do. Only time will tell if the Kinect will take off as well as the Wii did, but it certainly looks like fun.

Kinect is due out this November.

[Crunchgear]

Netflix To Offer Streaming Only Plan This Year?

2010-10-21T13:52:00.007-05:00

As Netflix continues its domination of the rental world, CEO Reed Hastings made an interesting statement during his companies Q4 financial results. “Three years ago we were a DVD-by-mail company that offered some streaming. We are now a streaming company, which also offers DVD-by-mail.”. This statement alone is the reason why Blockbuster will go the way of the Dodo bird. Not only did Netflix come up with way to beat Blockbuster at its own game (movies by mail), but by thinking forward with streaming, they're set up to push them out of existence.

With Netflix recently expanding to Canada, there have be talks that U.S. customers may be offered streaming only service sometime later this year. So if you're not interested in getting DVD's or Blu Ray movies by mail and only want the streaming service, you may not have to wait very long.

This week Netflix and Apple served notice that physical media is (almost) dead!!!

[Engadget]

New MacBook Air Makes Its Debut

2010-10-21T10:07:00.006-05:00

The 'Back to Mac' event brought some interesting news to light. Mainly the refresh of the Macbook Air, which was only two years old to begin with. Apple introduced two new models at the event, and somehow made them both thinner than the original. But the biggest news about the new MacBook Air is its storage. Gone are the HDD's or the SSD's and replaced with Flash Memory, which gives it the ability to boot up almost instantaneously. Both can support either 2GB or 4GB of RAM but you can not upgrade from that. The 13 inch model has a normal sized keyboard that is standard for Macs, while the 11 incher has a smaller keyboard that might take some getting use to.

These are clearly an upgrade from the original, and certainly fits a niche market for people who need a little more power than a iPad. If they had build 3G into the thing, I might have considered grabbing one.

The 11 incher starts at $999 and the 13 incher at $1299.

[Apple]

Google Vs Microsoft Cloud Apps

2010-10-20T23:51:00.007-05:00

Do you ever get the feeling a supposedly neutral magazine is a tool of a corporation?

While I agree Google Office Apps have not taken over the world; it's a little early to declare Microsoft the cloud office victor with their new entry to the cloud office app Office 365. For one, the Google Office apps start out at a free price point; whereas Microsoft' Office 365 is still only in a beta form which will most definitely not start out anywhere near a free pricing point. That being said, I do agree with the article that this will be an interesting development in the growing cloud wars.
[Computerworld]

Netflix Without The Embarrassing Disc For PS3

2010-10-14T14:12:00.004-05:00

Sony finally figures out what Microsoft did over a year ago, and integrates Netflix into the Playstation 3 platform. Previously PS3 users had to use a physical disc if they wished to stream Netflix movies. While this wasn't a deal breaker by any stretch, the physical wear and tear of a required disc to stream was never a good idea. Especially when PS3's main rival Xbox 360 never needed a disc and had a software only solution that was part of its platform. This also appeals to the lazy in most people, since you no longer have to swap out a disc if you would like to stream a movie.

I personally didn't like the fact that if I scratched up the disc (with a 4 year old in the house, it's always a chance), I couldn't stream a movie until a replacement disc arrived.

The update will roll out on Monday October 18th.

[Crunchgear]

Details on Logitech Revue Google TV box

2010-10-06T20:35:00.001-05:00

Logitech's Revue Google TV box is now available for pre-order for $299, revealing a host of new features—HD calling, a wide array of controls, myriad apps, and—if you order today, it'll arrive by the end of the month.

What's Inside

We now know the full extent of the box's hardware capabilities:
• HDMI 1.3 with 1080p, 60fps output
• 2 USB ports (allowing for added local Google TV storage)
• 802.11a/b/g/n wireless connectivity
• Integrated support for the Logitech Harmony remote
• SPDIF audio out
• Ethernet connectivity

How Much It Costs

The Revue box itself plus the keyboard is priced at $300, the mini controller at $130, and the smartphone apps are already available for free. (If you need another keyboard, it's $100.) The TV cam is pricey, no doubt, at $150. The Revue setup will be available for preorder from Best Buy and Amazon, shipping this month.

[Logitech via Gizmodo]

WSJ Says Verizon Will Sell iPhone Early 2011

2010-10-06T15:02:00.005-05:00

We've certainly been down this road before, but it looks more and more like it may finally come to pass. Yukari Iwatani Kane from The Wall Street Journal is reporting that Apple is set to release a Verizon iPhone with a Qualcomm chip as well as a CDMA radio. Bloomburg reported that Apple is preparing for 3 million of the Verizon iPhones to be mass produced in December, with a possible launch of the device as early as January 2011. There's no word on if this will be a LTE, but it's said that it will be a new fifth generation edition without the iPhone 4 antenna design.

I know that this comes as good news to many, but I have to say that I'm not one of them. I'm upset simply because had I known that this was coming, I would not have sold my cellular soul to AT&T for another 2 years. I'm well aware that this is clearly MY PROBLEM, but there is something to be said about finding this information out 4 months after the launch of the iPhone 4.

Would I have waited had I know Verizon would get the iPhone as early as January.... absolutely!!!

And I know that I'm not the only one who feels this way....... I can see a angry talk between myself and Apple very soon.

[Engadget]

Dirt Bag Spammer Fined $1 Billion

2010-10-06T09:17:00.006-05:00

I've always wanted to put a face on the D-Bag who continues to send out spam emails for everything from erectile dysfunction to penis enlargement. Who is the jerk that continues to send out all this crap all day every day?

Well now we have one!!!

Jabba The Hutt wantabe Adam Guerbuez who calls himself a online marketer is the A-hole you're looking for. This guy posted over 4 million spam messages on facebook during the spring of 2008. Guerbuez would deceptively pose as a friend to users then use software to automatically post spam to their walls. Well Guerbuez finally got his comeuppance, as Superior Court Justice Lise Fournier slapped him with a fine of a $100 per violation. Since this tool is from Montreal, the exchange rate breaks out to be $1,068,928,721.46. Guerbuez's lawyer says that the fine is excessive, but the Court Justice says that Guerbuez has made "very significant revenues" from all the advertising.

What I think is also amazing is his response to the whole thing..... Check the quote:

"If there's anything that does hit my e-mail box that I didn't ask to receive, I'll simply press the delete button, that's what it's on the keyboard for."

Really dirtbag?!!! You think it's that simple?!

Since he's been fined, Guerbuez has filed for bankruptcy and there's no word on how that will effect his obligation of payment. But I'm sure this winner will open up shop elsewhere under another name.

[[CTA via Gizmodo]

Aliens Behaving Badly In New "Skyline" Trailer

2010-09-30T14:17:00.003-05:00

While this certainly smacks of "Independence Day", it does look to have some promise.

"Skyline" hits theaters 11/12/10.

Star Wars Series To Be Released In 3D (WTF?)

2010-09-29T13:34:00.004-05:00

In a story that gets put in the "what the hell" bucket, George Lucas has continued to find new ways to whore out the same product. Behind the announcement of the release of all Star Wars movies in Blu Ray in 2011, now comes the news that starting in 2012 the franchise will be re-released in theaters in 3D. Lucas has said that starting with "The Phantom Menace" he will release one movie per year in 3D, ending with "Return of the Jedi" in 2017. The reason for the year long gap is said to be that it takes that long to take an existing 2D movie and 3D it up.

Now I know that I've gone on record on how I feel about George Lucas finding new ways to get you to buy the same movies over and over again. And with the announcement of the series being released on Blu Ray was just another example of how greedy and uncreative Lucas can be. But putting all 6 movies back into theaters just because 3D is all the rage takes a loved movie series and completely degrades it. You don't see Francis Ford Coppola racing back to remake "The Godfather" in 3D.

So why would you cheapen the Star Wars legacy in such a way?

'sigh'

[Crunchgear]

HTC Window Phone 7 Video Leaked..... Wow!!!

2010-09-16T14:38:00.005-05:00

If this is the new interface for the new Windows Phone 7, Apple and Android better knuckle up!!!

Microsoft is playing Windows Phone 7 software pretty close to the vest, but this "leaked" video of an HTC phone with the new OS looks incredible. From the 3D sticky notes to the very cool weather app and other 3D animations, this thing could be the real deal. Although WP7 isn't set to be released until November of this year, a lot of buzz is building up that this will put Microsoft back in the mobile OS game.

If this is the direction that Microsoft is going with their mobile OS, we mobile smartphone lovers may have some tough but fun choices to make very soon.

[Gizmodo]

New Amazon Kindle Ad Goes After The iPad

2010-09-13T11:34:00.004-05:00

Forgive me for finding this funny... But with Apple's 'I'm a Mac, and I'm a PC' ad campaign that never seemed to end, it's very ironic how other companies are going after Apple now. It fun to throw rocks at the big guy, and it's worked for Apple vs. Microsoft for so long that it became a crutch for them.

Now that Apple IS the big guy when it comes to cell phones and e-readers, the stones are flying at Apple so fast they can hardly duck fast enough. Case in point is the new Kindle ad that goes after the iPad price point and its inability to be viewed in sunlight very well. To be fair, Apple could easily come back with how Kindle can't be viewed in the dark, or that all you can use it for IS an e-reader.

But it is still fun to see Apple wear the other shoe for a change...

[Crunchgear]

New Digitized Footage Of 'Tron: Legacy' Hits The Net

2010-09-13T11:18:00.004-05:00

Considering that I was just a kid when the first 'Tron' movie hit the big screen, I didn't think that I would have very much excitement for the new one. Let's face it.... When you wait 28 years to make a sequel, you run the risk of losing your core audience. With that being said, I have to say with every new trailer that comes out I'm slowly gaining interest in this new installment of the Tron franchise.

The Disney channel gives us a sneak peak of the new digitized footage in 'Tron: Legacy' movie due out 12/17/10.

I almost can't wait!!!

2010-09-10T23:19:00.000-05:00

I like that Norton has kept up with the funny commercials.

Here's the previous ones with Dokken.

Why the iPad will never replace newspapers

2010-09-10T23:06:00.000-05:00

I saw this and had to agree. I could see this happening many times. LOL

[via Gizmodo]

Console Sales for August

2010-09-10T03:39:00.001-05:00

The NPD Group has released its videogame industry sales data for the month of August, 2010, showing continued growth in Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 hardware sales as the Wii continues to decline.

As it was in July, the Xbox 360 was the top-selling console for the month, pushing 356,700 units. The PlayStation 3 meanwhile sold 226,000, and for the thirteenth consecutive month, showed growth compared to its sales one year ago.

The Wii, meanwhile, sold 244,300 units, which the NPD says is its weakest performing month since launch. In an email sent today, NPD analyst Anita Frazier said that the group expects Wii sales to increase again once family titles Wii Party and Disney Guilty Party are released.

The full hardware breakdown follows.

Xbox 360 - 356,700
Nintendo DS - 342,700
Wii - 244,300
PlayStation 3 - 226,000
PSP - 79,400

That being said, here’s a couple of great deals for an Xbox 360 console.

4 GB Xbox 360 Console at Dell

Madden Bundle at Dell

iPhone Jailbreak Exploit Only Fixable Via New Hardware

2010-09-08T17:06:00.005-05:00

The news is good for iPhone jailbreakers everywhere this morning — but for Apple? Not so much.

Just minutes after the iOS 4.1 update became available to all, iPhone hacker pod2g has revealed that they’ve discovered a new bootrom exploit, with all recently released iOS hardware seemingly being vulnerable. In less geeky words: the iPhone 4? the new iPod Touch? If it was built anytime before today, it’s theoretically jailbreakable — and there’s not a whole lot Apple can do to fix that.

[Read More from Mobile Crunch via Crunchgear]

Apple Rolls Out The New iPod Family

2010-09-01T14:03:00.006-05:00

Most of the smart phones like iPhone, Android, and even Blackberry can play MP3 music. But if you're still all about having a dedicated MP3 device, Apple is still showing you love with the announcement of the new iPod Touch, iPod Nano, and shuffle.

The Shuffle has gone back to the buttons, but still caries voiceover features from the previous version. The Shuffle will also have a 15 hour battery life.

The iPod Nano has gotten the biggest physical change. Gone are the buttons, replaced with a multi-touch screen. It is 46% smaller and 42% lighter and still has FM radio, Nike+ support, and a pedometer. All this with 24 hours of battery life and it comes with a clip for the runners out there. Downside..... Gone is the video capability and with such a small screen, a touch screen seems a little silly.

The iPod Touch gets a face lift with the new retina display with the 326ppi resolution that the iPhone 4 has and is .33 inches thinner than the previous model. It comes with a HD camera that's able to shoot 720p video, and has a front facing camera for Facetime with other iPod Touch or iPhone 4 users. Apple also incorporated the A4 chip that's in the iPhone 4 along with the 3-axes gyroscope, all wrapped in iOS 4.1. Apple claims over 40 hours of audio along with 7 hours of video.

The new iPod family will hit the streets next week, along with the new iOS 4.1 download.

Apple representatives are standing by to take your order right now....... Hurry before they run out.

Yeah, right!

[Apple.com]

Xbox 360 Controller Gets A New Look

2010-08-31T12:53:00.005-05:00

It seems that Microsoft is in a hardware tweaking mode as after making recent design change to the Xbox 360, now there's been a change to the controller. The new 360 controller has a very low profile change to it, with a unique patented D-Pad that raises up a quarter inch when rotated 90 degrees. It's said to provide better control of the D-Pad, which will be a welcome change for first person shooter action gamers. The bottom triggers are said to be more comfier, and the overall design is more of a silvery shinny look.

Now the bad news.......

It will only be available with a $65 play and charge bundle pack due out November 9th. Instead of bundling this with the new Xbox 360 or selling it separately for $45, Microsoft is trying to force gamers too opt for a marginally improved controller at a premium price. The Xbox 360 by far has the best controller of any console sold today (And yes, I'm including the Wii people), and the original Xbox 360 controller is still good even without the new changes. I'm not so sure that the minor moves that were done to the controller would warrant spending premium coin for it.

So with that Microsoft..... The changes are welcome..... The price point is not!!!

Thanks to [Gizmodo] for this.

Epic Fail: Rumor Of Blockbuster Filing Bankruptcy In September

2010-08-27T10:15:00.008-05:00

Even though Blockbuster was said to be one of the companies to disappear in 2011, I just didn't think that the end would be so close. Well rumor has it that the once Behemoth movie rental company will file for bankruptcy next month. And it seems that these rumors have legs, as a meeting was said to have taken place between six of the major movie houses and Blockbuster to alert them of the filing next month.

Obviously a bankruptcy filing doesn't mean that a company is going bye bye, but it does make it clear that Blockbuster is in trouble. Blockbuster is said to be on track to close 500 more stores adding to the 1000 that were closed last year. Unless Blockbuster does some serious restructuring of their business plan, the mid-September filing will not help them. The problem is that Blockbuster continued to operate with an old antiquated system which made them a lot of money at one time. But the refusal to change how they operated (until it was too late) along with the Netflix tsunami, Blockbuster stayed on a collision course with Bankruptcy.

So now Blockbuster will try to pick themselves off the floor with a stronger push in the mail-order and digital rentals. Will they have the ability to restructure themselves during the bankruptcy to become a viable business, only time will tell......

But the smart money says no!!!

[Gizmodo]