Dell Tablet Concept

Slate computing is going to be the big thing for 2010 (that’s twenty-ten, not two-thousand) and no doubt, Dell is going to be in on it. While it is a concept, their new Dell tablet looks pretty amazing. While we don’t know too much about the device, it is running Android, Google’s mobile operating system, and it will have a camera on the back for taking photos and videos.

Alienware M11x

This is the first 11-inch gaming notebook on the market that Dell says has the power of a 15-inch model. We don’t know what processor is inside, but it does have both integrated graphics and a discrete NVIDIA GT335M graphics card that you can switch between to get the best out of your 6 1/2 hour battery life. It’s 4 pounds but if you want gaming in a smaller form-factor, both the weight and sub-$1000 price point are worth it.

Boxee Box

It was announced in November, but this was the first time people actually had the chance to test it out. If you’re not familiar with Boxee, it’s basically a media center on steroids with access to all of your favorite internet content (sans Hulu, unfortunately) and local media. The Boxee Box is their push to bring the media center application to your living room. Inside is one of the new Nvidia Tegra 2 chips, with full capability of playing 1080p high-def content and Flash 10.1 acceleration. The remote even has a QWERTY keyboard on the other side of it. Boxee and D-Link expect the device to be out later this year.

Lenovo IdeaPad U1

Perhaps the most interesting product at the show was the new IdeaPad U1. It is a combination tablet PC / slate and notebook computer. The 11.6-inch HD LED screen is removable and turns into a tablet with an ARM processor running a custom version of Linux, dubbed Skylight, built by Lenovo. Put the screen back on to the lid of the notebook and it turns into a full Windows 7 notebook, powered by the latest Intel Core 2 Duo CULV processor. The IdeaPad U1 will be available this June for $999.

As far as the R30 models are concerned, they’re packed with Intel Core 2 Duo T6600s, 320 GB hard drives, and 4 GB RAM. You sadly don’t get a Blu-ray drive with these models, and you’re left with measly GMA 4500MHD graphics. The R30 series is offered in both 14″ and 15.6″ screen sizes, and will run you $670 either way.

Now, the R80 line is the more beefed up version, sporting Intel’s Core i5 430M processors. Coming in 14-, 15.6-, and 17-inch models, the R80s have both upgraded storage (500GB) and for the two larger models, upgraded graphics (GeForce GT) and Blu-ray players. These models are a bit more expensive than the R30 line, however, costing $849, $949, and (oddly) $929 for the top of the line. Why $20 cheaper? The world may never know, but I know for sure that I’d spend that extra $20 on a little bit more portability rather than lugging around a 17″ monstrosity.

Full press release below.

LAS VEGAS–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Samsung Electronics America Inc., a subsidiary of Samsung Electronics Corporation, announces the launch of its newest notebook computer series, the Samsung R30 series featuring the R430 and R530 and the Samsung R80 series including the R480, R580 and R780, at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. Ideal for viewing HD video, managing digital music, editing photos or playing the coolest PC games, Samsung’s latest notebooks are flexible and powerful.

“LED HD Resolution: 1366 x 768 Graphics: nVIDIA GeForce GT 310M (R580) Intel GMA 4500 MHD (R480) Speakers: 3 W Stereo Speaker (1.5 W x 2) Audio technology: HD Audio Web camera: 1.3 MP Internal microphone Hard Drive: 500GB 5400 RPM Wireless LAN: 802.11bg/n LAN: Gigabit Ethernet Samsung R780”

“With Samsung’s new notebook models, we’re excited to deliver a both stylish design and high performance,” said Todd Bouman director of product marketing at Samsung Electronics Information Technology Division. “Combining a range of wireless connectivity options and LED backlit displays, these products are ideal to be used both as mobile devices as well as desktop replacements for all-day use.”

MULTIMEDIA POWERHOUSE NOTEBOOKS – 80 SERIES

Available in Samsung’s “Touch of Color” gradation with various patterns and including a Blu-Ray optical drive in the R480 and R580, these laptops are perfect for watching movies both at home and on the go. Additionally, the nVIDIA GeForce graphics card included in the R580 and R780 will appeal to the gamer in any household. The HD LED backlit displays (17.3” – R780, 15.6” – R580, 14.0” – R480) provide the sharpest images and boldest colors with a proper 16:9 aspect ratio.

Based on the Intel® Core™ i5 430M processor, the 80 series comes equipped with a 500 GB hard drive. With a 1.3 MP Web cam and integrated microphone, they are ideal for use with communicating with friends and family over Skype or other VoIP networks.

CRAFTED TO PERFORM – R30 SERIES

Also, available in Samsung’s “Touch of Color” gradation with various patterns in stylish white and red respectively, the Samsung R430 and Samsung R530 are built using the Intel® Core™ 2 Duo T6600 processor and contain a 320GB hard drive. They each pack 4GB DDR3 memory and an Intel GMA 4500MHD graphics card, making them ideal machines for office users and gamers alike. The R530 also comes equipped with a 17-key numeric keypad.

These new notebooks offer a variety of visual options. The 16:9 aspect ratio of the bright, high-resolution 14 inch and 15.6 inch LED HD displays make the Samsung R430 and Samsung R530, respectively, ideal for viewing a wide variety of content.

The R-series’ ergonomic design allows for a more enjoyable and productive user experience. Samsung notebooks are perfect as a desktop replacement as well as an on-the-go computing solution.

The Samsung R430 and R530 will MSRP for $670 and along with the Samsung R780, which has an MSRP of $929, are available through Samsung resellers now. The R480 and R580 will be available from March 2010 at price points of $829 and $949 respectively.

Samsung’s notebook line will be on display at the LVCC Central Hall, booth 11026 during the International Consumer Electronics Show at the Las Vegas Convention Center, January 7 – 10, 2010.

Samsung R480/ R580

• CPU: Intel® Core™ i3-330M Processor/ Intel® Core™ i5-430M Processor
• Memory: 4GB (DDR3 / 2GB x 2)
• Screen: 14.0”/15.6″ LED HD
• Resolution: 1366 x 768
• Graphics: nVIDIA GeForce GT 310M (R580)
• Intel GMA 4500 MHD (R480)
• Speakers: 3 W Stereo Speaker (1.5 W x 2)
• Audio technology: HD Audio
• Web camera: 1.3 MP
• Internal microphone
• Hard Drive: 500GB 5400 RPM
• Wireless LAN: 802.11bg/n
• LAN: Gigabit Ethernet

Samsung R780

• CPU: Intel® Core™ i5-430M Processor
• Memory: 4 GB (DDR3 / 2GB x 2)
• Display: 17.3″ LED HD+
• Resolution: 1600 x 900
• Graphics: nVIDIA GeForce GT 330M
• Speakers: 4 W Stereo Speaker (2 W x 2)
• Audio technology: HD Audio
• Webcam: 1.3 MP
• Hard Drive: 500GB 5400 RPM
• Wireless LAN: 802.11bg/n
• LAN: Gigabit Ethernet
• Bluetooth 2.1 + EDR

Samsung R430 / R530

• CPU: Intel® Core™2 Duo T6600 Processor
• Memory: 4 GB (DDR3 / 2GB x 2)
• Display: 14.0″ LED HD (R430) / 15.6″ LED HD (R530)
• Resolution: 1366 x 768
• Graphics: Intel GMA 4500MHD
• Speakers: 3 W Stereo Speaker (1.5 W x 2)
• Audio technology: HD Audio
• Webcam
• Hard Drive: 320GB 5400 RPM
• Wireless LAN: 802.11bg/n
• LAN: 10/100 Ethernet

All notebooks are available through Samsung resellers and distribution channels, which can be located by calling 1-800-SAMSUNG or by visiting www.samsung.com. Samsung Power Partners receive special promotions, lead referrals, training and technical support, as well as collateral and marketing materials. To find out more about becoming a Samsung Power Partner, visit www.samsungpartner.com.

Earlier today, Fujitsu announced eight new notebooks and tablet PCs at CES, which opened officially this morning. The lineup  includes the smallest multi-touch handheld PC to a model featuring a HD 18.4-inch display. Full details of the new lineup after the break, complete with specs. Links to all of these models are available at the Fujitsu website.

Kicking off the new line is the new LifeBook UH900, a 1.1 pound mini-notebook with a 5.6-inch multi-touch screen. The UH900 is powered by the latest Intel Atom Z-series processor, bundles Windows 7 Home Premium, and features a built-in GPS receiver with Garmin Mobile GPS Navigation. Inside you can also find a 62GB solid state drive, wireless connectivity such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, and a stereo microphone. This model spans the top end of the netbook spectrum at its $999 price point however. It will be available next month.

If you want something a little bigger than that, look no further than the P770 ultra-portable. It starts at 3.1 pounds, has a 12.1-inch WXGA display, and packs in the new Intel Core i7-640UM processor, which is pretty awesome for a notebook this small. You’ll find Windows 7 Professional on this model along with an integrated dual-layer DVD-RW drive, webcam, HDMI and eSATA ports, and a touchpad with gesture functionality. The P770 will be priced starting at $1549 and be available next month.

Two 13-inch notebooks are also part of the lineup and include the T900, a multi-touch convertible tablet PC weighing in at 4.5 pounds, and the S760, a standard thin-and-light coming in at 3.6 pounds. Both will feature Windows 7 Professional, and include the new Core i5 and i7 processors from Intel. You’ll also find a modular bay which supports an optical drive, second battery, or another hard drive. The S760 will start at $1422 while the T900 will be priced starting at $1889.

If you’re looking for a budget model, the AH550 is perfect for you. It has a 15.6-inch HD display with the all new Intel Core processors announced earlier today. It has the basics including Windows 7 Home Premium, a dual-layer multi-format DVD burner, an integrated webcam, discrete and integrated graphics, and a HDMI port all starting at $749.

Next is the LifeBook NH570, with the HD 18.4-inch display we mentioned earlier. It includes the new Core processors as well, Windows 7 Home Premium, and the standard array of ports including eSATA and HDMI. Pricing starts at $1199. Rounding it all out is the corporate-minded E780 desktop alternative which has a 15.6-inch HD display, the new Intel Core i5 and i7 processors, an optional NVIDIA graphics card with 1GB of dedicated memory, and a modular bay with the option of an extra battery or Blu-ray player. Pricing for this model will begin at $1223.

Full press release below.

LAS VEGAS, NV (CES) and IRVINE, CA – January 07, 2010 — VIZIO, America’s #1 LCD HDTV Company, announced today it will be one of the first manufacturers to enter the new mobile television market. VIZIO will offer three Razor LED models with a depth of less than 1”, including one capable of receiving broadcasts using the new ATSC-M/H mobile/handheld platform that can be operate in moving vehicles. The VMB070 has a 7” display, the VMB090 has a 9” display and the VMB100 has a 10” display. All scheduled for delivery later this year with MSRPs of $149.99, $199.99, and $229.99 respectively.

In markets where the broadcasts are available, the VMB090 and VMB100 have the ability to receive the new ATSC-M/H signals through an integrated antenna. This new standard enables local broadcasters to deliver over the air signals that can be received by mobile video devices such as phones, portable media players, laptop computers, personal navigation devices and automobile-based infotainment systems. This signal is broadcast within the spectrum already being used for existing ATSC DTV programming.

“From our enormous base of enthusiastic customers, we see a solid set of end users ready to embrace the idea of viewing on the go, and these new mobile Razor LED TVs are the ideal solution,” says Laynie Newsome, VIZIO Co-Founder and VP Sales and Marketing Communications. “Being one of the first to market with the latest in mobile video technology is a perfect example of VIZIO’s ability to deliver the newest and most advanced technologies to the market, and these products have the performance and value that our customers have come to expect.”

7” VMB070 Mobile Razor LED
Thanks to VIZIO’s Razor LED design, the VMB070 LCD LED mobile TV is just over 3/4” deep. Its 7” LED backlit screen has 800×480 resolution, and a high level of brightness at 250 nits. Its sleek design has no hard buttons, using instead innovative touch-sensitive controls that light up when it senses the user’s approach. Its flush antenna can also flip up for improved reception of ATSC and NTSC broadcast signals. For use with a DVD player or other component, the mobile TV includes auxiliary audio and video inputs, and a headphone jack allows for private listening. The internal battery supports up to 3 hours of operation when away from a power supply, and the unit has earned an Energy Star rating as well. Dimensions are 8.2” x 5.75” x .75”.

10” VMB100 and 9” VMB090 Mobile Razor LED LCD TVs
With a tuner able to receive broadcast signals using the new mobile ATSC-MH format (as well as ATSC and NTSC signals), the VMB100 and VMB090 are among the very first sets with this capability. A slim-profile, stylish Razor LED TV, they have a 10.2” or 9” LED LCD panel with resolution of 800×480 pixels and very high brightness at 350 nits. Like the VMB090, touch sensitive TV controls maintain the sleek design of this mobile TV, and its internal antenna can sit flush or be extended for improved reception. For use with external source components, an HDMI 1.4 jack is included, along with composite video and stereo audio inputs. They also have a USB 2.0 port that can be used to view JPEG photos or for listening to MP3 audio, and a headphone jack allows for private playback. Energy Star rated, the VMB100 and VMB090 also operate up to 3 hours on their internal battery. Dimensions are 11” x 7.5” x just under 1” and 10” x 7” x just under 1” for the VMB100 and VMB090 respectively.

About VIZIO
VIZIO, Inc., “Where Vision Meets Value,” headquartered in Irvine, California, is America’s HDTV and Consumer Electronics Company. In 2007, VIZIO skyrocketed to the top by becoming the #1 selling brand of flat panel HDTVs in North America and became the first American brand in over a decade to lead major categories in U.S. TV sales. Since 2007 VIZIO HDTV shipments remain in the TOP ranks in the U.S. and were again #1 in Q1, 2009 with over 20% market share. VIZIO is committed to bringing feature-rich flat panel televisions to market at a value through practical innovation. VIZIO offers a broad range of award winning LCD HDTVs including the new XVT series. VIZIO’s products are found at Costco Wholesale, Sam’s Club, Sears, Walmart, Target, BJ’s Wholesale, and other retailers nationwide along with authorized online partners. VIZIO has won numerous awards including a #1 ranking in the Inc. 500 for Top Companies in Computers and Electronics, Good Housekeeping’s Best Big-Screens, CNET’s Top 10 Holiday Gifts and PC World’s Best Buy among others. For more information, please call 888-VIZIOCE or visit on the web at www.VIZIO.com.

The V, VIZIO, TruLED, Extreme VIZIO Technology XVT, VIZIO Internet Apps (VIA), 480Hz SPS, 240Hz SPS, Full HD3D, Thin Line, Smooth Motion, Razor LED, Smart Dimming, Where Vision Meets Value names, phrase and symbols are trademarks or registered trademarks of VIZIO, Inc. All other trademarks may be the property of their respective holders.

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In the sea of similarities, one thing did stand out as interesting. The new Samsung TVs come with touchscreen LCD remotes (similar to the Harmony 1000/1100 I’d assume) that make interacting with the Internet@TV features easier by allowing the user to have a full QWERTY keyboard. In addition, on the 9000 series, the remote connects to the TV over WiFi and allows you to stream content… to the remote! That means that while your kids finish watching Pixar’s Up in 3D on a Samsung 3D Blu-ray player, you can watch the beginning of the Saints game on your tiny screen (tragically not in 3D we’d assume).

Check out the full press release below.

LAS VEGAS, January 6, 2010 – Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., a market leader and award-winning innovator in consumer electronics, unveiled today the next generation of its award-winning LED back-lit TVs, featuring a first of its kind built-in 3D processor, connected interactive experiences and innovative, trend-setting designs with a wide range of options to match the décor of almost any living room. . This year’s flagship Series, the 9000, has proudly won the 2010 CES Best of Innovations award. Perhaps most notably, Samsung offers its most versatile LED TV lineup, which consists of entry level HD offerings to its highest performing full HD TV’s ever, in a variety of screen sizes.  Samsung’s latest HDTVs will be on display at Booth #11026 during the International Consumer Electronics Show, which will be held at the Las Vegas Convention Center, January 7 -10, 2010.

“Our leadership in the LED TV category is no accident; we identified a consumer need for superior picture quality, ultra slimness and more eco-friendly energy consumption,” said Yangkyu Kim, Senior Vice President of Visual Display Division for Samsung Electronics. “We have put all our energy and passion into this year’s LED TV lineup with the single objective to deliver stunning experiences that bring life-like depth to TV. With this award-winning lineup, Samsung is once again setting the industry standard not only for quality TV experiences but for technology and innovation leadership.”

With eight product series, and screen sizes ranging from 19” to 65”, this is the industry’s largest lineup of LED TVs to date. From the award-winning 9000 Series, to the Innovations Honoree 7000 and 6500 Series, consumers have virtually unlimited choice of models to fit their individual entertainment preferences and lifestyle. The flagship 9000 series specifically is flat-out Samsung’s most impressive HDTV to date – the quintessential slim LED TV with a premium touch-screen remote control and built-in 3D technology, setting a new standard for jaw-dropping home theater picture quality and connectivity.  The world’s slimmest fully integrated LED TV, the 9000 Series was designed to end all depth competitions, and raise the bar yet again with an innovative stand that includes the built-in tuner.

Built-in 3D

New in 2010, this year’s premium models in the LED TV lineup, the 7000, 8000 and 9000, all include Samsung’s proprietary built-in 3D processor and emitter that is optimized for, and enables compatibility with multiple 3D standards including half and full HD resolution formats as well as the Blu-ray Disc Association approved “Blu-ray 3D” standard.  In addition, Samsung’s 3D system delivers a picture using a full color spectrum for an unbelievable, immersive viewing experience.

Along with the company’s 3D Blu-ray player (BD-C6900), Samsung offers a complete solution allowing consumers to bring the 3D theater experience home.  For those who want to add the third dimension to their regular TV viewing, Samsung included in its 3D processor an auto-conversion technology that renders 2D content into 3D in real time. Consumers can add a level of depth and clarity to a live football game, making them believe they are part of the action.

Connected TV and Samsung Apps

With built-in Ethernet connection and wireless-ready capabilities, the 2010 LED TV lineup is ready to meet the growing consumer demand for “content without borders.” The upgraded Internet@TV feature now includes Samsung Apps, providing consumers with an expanded, easy to navigate selection of content and applications from leading services like Accedo Broadband, AccuWeather.com, The Associated Press, Blockbuster, Fashion TV, Netflix, Picasa, Pandora, Rovi, Travel Channel, Twitter, USA TODAY, and Vudu. Applications can be downloaded and viewed all while watching TV.  All of the premium LED TVs, 6500 Series and above, will include the upgraded Internet@TV with Samsung Apps.

Unsurpassed Picture Quality

Samsung’s premium LED TV’s will boast unsurpassed picture quality by using a Samsung-developed technology  that merges the advantages of LED edge-lighting  with the control of local dimming technology in directly back-lit LED televisions. This technology along with Samsung’s high-efficiency LED light source and proprietary picture enhancement engine with video processor ensure unsurpassed picture quality with vibrant colors, deep blacks and better contrast ratios.

Focus on Design

In 2010, Samsung builds on its tradition of innovative design by introducing narrower bezels and brushed metal frames in silver and black– pushing the limits beyond the familiar black bezels of many HDTV’s.  In particular, Samsung developed a groundbreaking four-legged quad stand that makes the TV look more like furniture than device and a new “mystic earth” Touch of Color™ (ToC™) design scheme with chrome edging to better match a living room’s décor. With a wide-ranging pallet of materials and designs, Samsung offers something for virtually anyone’s tastes and interior design preferences.  What’s more, the new LED TVs match Samsung’s 2010 line of Blu-ray players and home theater systems bringing a cohesive element to a home entertainment room.

Green Design

All these functionalities are delivered without compromising on the energy efficiency that Samsung LED TVs are known for and meet even higher standards of sustainability.  They all exceed the more stringent EnergyStar® 4.0 guidelines. Samsung LED TVs are the highest performing and eco-conscious HDTV products Samsung has ever released, continuing to set new standards every year.

Redefining the Remote

In another industry first, Samsung developed an easy to use on-board TV display full touch-screen remote control.  The remote’s color touch-screen makes understanding features and options easy and simple. Its integrated Wi-Fi and infrared technology controls TV and AV devices with the on-screen buttons and QWERTY keyboard. It allows users to watch broadcast content directly on the remote so you can watch the first part of the big game, while a Blu-ray movie is just wrapping up on the large screen HDTV(9000 Series only). You can also browse music, photos, and video files from a DLNA certified PC then swipe the chosen content in the direction of the TV to enjoy on the larger screen (9000 Series only). The remote is the primary remote control for the 9000 Series and a derivative version of it is sold separately as an option for other LED TV models including the 7000 and 8000 Series.

As far as the Palm Pixi is concerned, it got WiFi. Hooray WiFi! Oh and both of these are heading to Verizon, which is sure to make a few people happy. No one can argue that Verizon’s network is something to be desired by phone manufacturers these days.

Last, and possibly most interestingly, there’s an app heading to the webOS store that allows you to create a personal WiFi “cloud” for up to five of your other WiFi enabled devices. Definitely a cool addition, but sadly the press release implies that it’s subject to your data plan, meaning this might not be as cool as we thought it was. However, it’s still an alternative to Sprint and Verizon’s MiFi devices, which require you to (god forbid) carry another device around with you.

Full press release below.

LAS VEGAS, Jan 07, 2010 /PRNewswire via COMTEX News Network/ — Today at the 2010 International Consumer Electronics Show, Verizon Wireless and Palm, Inc. (Nasdaq: PALM) announced the Jan. 25 availability of Palm^® Pre^™ Plus and Palm Pixi^™ Plus, bringing the Palm webOS^™ experience to customers on the nation’s largest and most reliable wireless 3G network.

Palm Pre Plus has a large, vivid touch screen; high-performance processor; and slide-out keyboard. The Pre Plus keyboard makes for quick and easy typing, while the unique gesture area provides a sleek look and intuitive navigation. Pre Plus also comes with the Palm Touchstone^™ Back Cover, making the phone compatible with the revolutionary inductive Touchstone Charging Dock (sold separately). Verizon Wireless Pre Plus customers will also get 16 GB of storage (approximately 15 GB user available) for applications and media.

Feature-rich, Pre Plus and Pixi Plus offer Verizon Wireless customers greater flexibility for access to the Internet with Wi-Fi. In addition, the all-new Palm mobile hotspot, a webOS app that can be downloaded from the Palm App Catalog, gives customers the option of creating a personal Wi-Fi cloud capable of sharing the reliability and high-speed Internet connectivity of the Verizon Wireless 3G network with up to five Wi-Fi-enabled devices such as notebooks, netbooks, cameras, gaming devices or portable media/MP3 players.

Social communicators and first-time smartphone buyers who want an affordable and customizable phone and instant access to messaging and Web content will love Pixi Plus. Customers have a host of options for personalizing their phones with the separately-sold Palm Pixi Artist Series Back Covers (www.palm.com/artistseries) and new color Pixi Touchstone Back Covers, which will be available in pink, blue, green, orange and black.

“The Palm experience is all about helping our customers stay connected so they never miss a thing,” said Jon Rubinstein, Palm chairman and chief executive officer. “We’re constantly enriching this experience with new features and innovations. The Verizon Wireless launch of Pre Plus and Pixi Plus is the next phase in delivering this unique Palm experience to more people.”

“The Palm webOS family is a great addition to Verizon Wireless’ robust line-up of smartphones,” said John Stratton, executive vice president and chief marketing officer for Verizon Wireless. “The outstanding capabilities and functionalities on both Pre Plus and Pixi Plus give customers a wealth of customization options to help them manage their lives. Customers get the latest technology from Palm along with the nation’s largest and most reliable 3G network for an unsurpassed mobile experience.”

Following are key features and specifications available on both Pre Plus and Pixi Plus:

• webOS – Allows customers to run multiple applications simultaneously and provides over-the-air software updates delivered automatically to their devices
• Palm Synergy^™ – Brings customers’ information from the many places it resides into a single, more comprehensive view
• Unobtrusive notifications and universal search
• Palm App Catalog – Currently offers more than 1,000 webOS applications for download
• High-speed connectivity
• Gesture area – Enables simple, intuitive gestures for navigation
• Full QWERTY keyboard
• High-performance, desktop-class Web browser
• Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g
• Integrated GPS
• Robust messaging support (combining IM, SMS and MMS capabilities)
• E-mail, including EAS (for access to corporate Microsoft Exchange servers) and personal e-mail support (Google Gmail^™ push, Yahoo!^®, POP3, IMAP)
• VZ Navigator(SM) – Allows customers to get audible turn-by-turn directions to more than 15 million points of interest and share the directions with others
• USB mass storage mode
• Proximity sensor – Automatically disables the touch screen and turns off the display when consumers put their phones to their ears
• Light sensor – Reduces power usage by dimming the display if the ambient light is dark
• Accelerometer – Automatically orients Web pages and photos
• Ringer switch – Easily silences the device with one touch
• Removable, rechargeable battery
• Multimedia options, including pictures, video playback and music as well as a camera with LED flash and a standard 3.5 mm headset jack
• Bluetooth^® 2.1 + EDR with A2DP stereo Bluetooth support
• Charger/microUSB connector with USB 2.0 Hi-Speed

Additional Palm Pre Plus Specs

• 3.0 megapixel camera with LED flash and extended depth of field
• Slide-out QWERTY keyboard
• Dimensions: 2.35″ x 3.96″ x 0.67″
• Weight: 4.89 ounces

Additional Palm Pixi Plus Specs

• 2.0 megapixel camera with LED flash
• Fixed QWERTY keyboard
• Dimensions: 2.17″ x 4.37″ x 0.43″
• Weight: 3.26 ounces

Availability:

• Palm Pre Plus and Palm Pixi Plus will be available online at www.verizonwireless.com and in Verizon Wireless Communications Stores beginning Jan. 25. Pricing will be announced closer to launch.
• 3G mobile hotspot is a separately-purchased feature added to a voice and data plan.
• For additional information on Verizon Wireless products and services, visit a Verizon Wireless Communications Store, call 1-800-2 JOIN IN or go to www.verizonwireless.com.

Earlier this evening, before the epic power failure at the Microsoft pre-show keynote for CES, Motorola unveiled their latest Android handset, the BACKFLIP (or Backflip, as we’ll call it without shouting) with Motoblur. The Backflip has a unique reverse-flip QWERTY keyboard with a high-resolution 3.1-inch screen, the design of the phone allows you to set it in “tabletop mode” to listen to music or view videos without having to hold the device. The Backflip is 3G capable and also has WiFi for faster connections to the nearly 20,000 apps available on the Android Market today. It also has a 5 megapixel camera with flash and easy uploading to your favorite photo sharing sites like Flickr.

The Backflip with Motoblur will be available in Q1 of this year. For more information, we’ve included the full release below.

Motorola Globally Introduces BACKFLIP™ with MOTOBLUR™ – Taking Smart in a Whole New Direction

BACKFLIP bends the smart phone rules with a unique reverse flip design and BACKTRACK™ feature for speeding through MOTOBLUR social streams

LAS VEGAS – CES – Jan. 6, 2010 – Today Motorola, Inc. (NYSE: MOT) announced the latest addition to its Android™ portfolio: BACKFLIP™ with MOTOBLUR™.  The Motorola BACKFLIP, which combines the social saviness and personalization of MOTOBLUR with the multitasking performance of a smart phone, will be available in North America, Latin America, Europe and Asia beginning in Q1 2010.  The unique reverse flip design makes it easy to enjoy videos, music and photos, and the QWERTY keyboard allows you to blast through e-mails, texts, news feeds, social network messages and more.

“Since introducing our first MOTOBLUR-based device, we’ve remained focused on differentiating the Android experience and bringing it to new carrier partners around the globe,” said Sanjay Jha, co-CEO of Motorola and CEO of Motorola Mobile Devices. “BACKFLIP maximizes the multi-tasking and multi-functional potential of MOTOBLUR with its unique design elements, making it as smart as it is social.”

MOTOBLUR is Motorola’s Android-powered content delivery service created to make phones more personal and socially smart. It is the first and only solution to sync contacts, posts, messages, photos and much more—from sources such as Facebook®, MySpace, Twitter, Gmail™, work and personal e-mail, and LastFM—and automatically deliver them to the home screen. Content is fed into easy-to-manage streams allowing you to spend less time managing your life and more time living it.

BACKFLIP is designed around the MOTOBLUR experience and provides multiple features to keep phone conversations moving. Multi-tasking has never been easier with BACKFLIP’s reverse-flip QWERTY keyboard and high-res 3.1” HVGA screen—letting you see more and respond faster.  Navigate quickly and easily through menus and features with the new and unique BACKTRACK™ feature. BACKTRACK is a touch panel located on the other side of the device, offering you a new way to scroll through—the Web, texts, e-mails and news feeds without obscuring the home screen.

The truly original design allows BACKFLIP to create new ways to enjoy photos, music and more. In the reverse-flip, tabletop mode, listen to music or view videos hands free. The digital picture frame mode lets you show off your latest adventures. You can even turn BACKFLIP into a bedside alarm clock for your morning wake up call.

BACKFLIP comes fully equipped with the MOTOBLUR features you know and love. The full HTML browser on BACKFLIP’s 3.1” high-res, touch display will be sure to impress, and, with 3G speed and Wi Fi access, you will never be out of the loop. Android Market™ gives you access to more than 18,000 apps and widgets, so you are free to customize BACKFLIP to your liking. Capture the moment with BACKFLIP’s 5 MP camera with flash and easily upload to your favorite photo sharing or social site. Additional extras such as aGPS and stereo Bluetooth1 make BACKFLIP the complete package.

Finally, MOTOBLUR provides end-users with convenience and peace of mind, as lost devices can be located from a secure personal information portal and even remotely erased if necessary.  Then, one user name and password brings back your contacts, messages and connectivity to your previously configured networks and email providers.

BACKFLIP with MOTOBLUR will be available in North America, Latin America, Europe and Asia beginning in Q1 2010. For specific regional availability and pricing, contact your local Motorola representative. To experience BACKFLIP, please visit www.motorola.com/backflip.

For more information, product specifications and images of BACKFLIP, please visit Media Center Fact Sheets. For multimedia assets from CES, visit CES 2010 Press Kit. Also follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

Certain features, services and applications are network dependent and may not be available in all areas; additional terms, conditions and/or charges may apply. Contact your service provider for details.

1 This device supports Bluetooth A2DP, HSP, and HFP profiles. For Bluetooth devices to communicate with one another, they must utilize the same Bluetooth profile. To determine the profiles supported by other Motorola devices, visit www.motorola.com/bluetooth. For other devices, contact their respective manufacturer. Certain Bluetooth features including those listed may not be supported by all compatible Bluetooth-enabled devices, and/or the functionality of such features may be limited in certain devices, or by certain wireless carriers. Contact your wireless carrier about feature availability and functionality.

MOTOROLA and the Stylized M Logo are registered in the US Patent & Trademark Office. The Bluetooth trademarks are owned by their proprietor and used by Motorola, Inc. under license. Facebook is a registered trademark of Facebook, Inc. All other product or service names are the property of their respective owners.  © 2010 Motorola, Inc.  All rights reserved.

About Motorola

Motorola is known around the world for innovation in communications and is focused on advancing the way the world connects. From broadband communications infrastructure, enterprise mobility and public safety solutions to high-definition video and mobile devices, Motorola is leading the next wave of innovations that enable people, enterprises and governments to be more connected and more mobile. Motorola (NYSE: MOT) had sales of US $30.1 billion in 2008. For more information, please visit www.motorola.com.

If you’re planning on looking for a new laptop this year, the new Aspire series from Acer might be on your list. The new AS5740 and 7740 series of notebooks have the latest Intel Core i3 and Core i5 processors, as well as having discrete ATI graphics, and the its signature “Gemstone Blue” design. The new series have 15.6- and 17.3-inch 16:9 aspect ratio displays, with the latter having a full 1080p HD resolution. You can also expect to find the normal array of ports from HDMI, to four USB 2.0 ports, and integrated 802.11n wireless / Gigabit Ethernet connectivity.

Acer expects to get these out to the channel beginning on January 17th, only a few short weeks away. Prices for both series start at $599.99. Full press release with sample configurations below.

ACER^® ASPIRE SERIES OFFER ENHANCED HORESPOWER WITH NEW INTEL CORE i3 AND i5 TECHNOLOGY

Stylish 15.6- and 17.3-inch Acer Aspire AS5740 and AS7740 Series notebooks boast high-performance Intel^® Core™ i3 and Core™ i5 processors; Select models offer advanced ATI Radeon™ HD graphics and Blu-ray, transforming the notebook into a mobile theater

SAN JOSE, Calif., Jan. 7, 2010 – Delivering state-of-the-art performance in a stylish package, Acer America today offers the new Acer^® Aspire AS5740 and AS7740 Series of notebook PCs.  These mobile powerhouses feature the new Intel^® Core™ i3 and Core™ i5 processors, widescreen HD displays, first-rate graphics and Acer’s acclaimed Gemstone Blue design with prices beginning at just $599.99.

“As games become more lifelike and movies push the limits on special effects, more powerful and intelligent performance is required for a truly dynamic computing experience,” said Preeta Anil, senior product marketing manager for Acer America.  “Consumers wanting to enjoy all the latest digital media in a mobile platform will appreciate the AS5740 and AS7740 Series.  Featuring extremely fast processors and in select models, discrete ATI Mobility Radeon™ HD graphics and Blu-ray disc drives, these notebooks truly bring digital entertainment to life.”

Multi-Core Processors Match Workload

With faster, smarter multi-core technology, the new AS5470 and AS7740 Series fueled by Intel^® Core^™ i3-330M (2.13GHz) and Core^™ i5-430M (2.26GHz) processors, are designed to please some of the most demanding computer users.  Whether it’s composing digital music, editing photos, or playing casual games, the new Aspire AS5740 and AS7740 notebooks enable users to enjoy the best in digital media and be more productive with the ability to multitask quickly and easily. With an intelligent design that accelerates to accommodate demanding tasks, both new series of notebooks are offered in many different configurations that allocate power where it’s needed most.

Powerful ATI Radeon™ Graphics Maximize the HD Experience; Accelerate Multitasking

Select models boast ATI Mobility Radeon^™ HD 5650 or ATI Mobility Radeon™ HD 5470 graphics, providing performance and portability for entertainment and productivity on the go.  The ATI Mobility Radeon^™ HD 5650 with 1GB Dedicated VRAM features the most advanced technology that offers a host of advantages from playing the hottest Blu-ray movies and other HD content at full 1080p resolution to accelerating the most demanding applications, such as video editing.  It also provides superior multi-monitor support that includes expanding the field of view across up to six displays and exceptional optical clarity for a truly immersive entertainment experience.

The ATI Mobility Radeon HD 5470 with 512MB dedicated memory produces quality images for viewing HD content and playing popular games as well as the speed necessary for accelerating everyday applications.  Both discrete graphics leverage ATI Stream technology, which enables the CPU and GPU to work together more efficiently for a significant increase in system performance.  With DirectX^® 11 support, users can play the latest HD games with superior image clarity and striking 3D visual effects for astonishing realism.  In addition, both GPUs enable users to dynamically switch between integrated and discrete graphics to optimize the notebook for maximum performance when desired and long battery life while on the go.

Beautiful “Gemstone Blue” Design; 15.6- and 17.3-Inch HD Widescreen Displays

Elegantly crafted, all of the new notebooks are encased in Acer’s eye-catching Gemstone Blue design, known for its glossy sapphire blue exterior and smooth rounded edges. A backlit power button and textured NeoWeave palm rest enhance the look and feel.  The systems offer a full keyboard and a front access card reader for convenience.

The AS7740 Series boasts a widescreen 17.3-inch Acer CineCrystal LED-backlit TFT LCD with a true cinematic 16:9 aspect ratio.  Full HD resolution reveals beautiful picture quality for enjoying entertainment created in the 1080p format. The large display is ideal for those who prefer a bigger screen for viewing movies or playing games as well as being able to scroll less when looking at websites or spreadsheets.

The AS5740 Series comes with a 15.6-inch Acer CineCrystal TFT LCD with a 16:9 aspect ratio and full HD resolution, large enough for mobile savvy customers to easily view web pages, documents, email, digital media and more.

Affording easy, intuitive PC navigation, the new Aspire notebooks have a multi-gesture touchpad.  Users can scroll, rotate, zoom in and out and quickly flip through web pages, photos, spreadsheets, long lists of files, music playlists and more by pinching, flicking and swirling their fingers across the touchpad.  The touchpad can also be disabled with a one-touch button, eliminating accidental cursor movement with palms and wrists when using an external mouse.

Dolby-Optimized Surround Sound, Blu-ray and More

High quality graphics and Dolby^® -optimized surround sound enhance movies and games with dynamic, realistic images and audio. Select models come with a Blu-ray disc drive at a very affordable price point.  The Blu-ray drive delivers high def music and movie effects with true-to-master precision and enables users to burn CDs and DVDS of their favorite music, photos and videos.
A webcam and digital microphone make it fun and easy to get virtual face time with friends and family via live video streaming and video chat.  Both the AS5470 and AS7740 Series notebooks come with integrated media readers and offer up to 650GB hard drives⁽²⁾ with ample room for storing a vast library of applications, files and digital media.

A wide array of ports including HDMI, enable the laptops to support any PC or TV video format via a single cable, while four USB 2.0 ports connect to the latest peripherals and digital devices.  Integrated 802.11a/b/g/Draft-N Wireless and Gigabit Ethernet LAN provide fast access to email, the web and social networks.

The systems are Energy Star^® qualified and outfitted with Genuine Windows^® 7 Home Premium, enhancing the user experience with an easier to use interface and more reliability and responsiveness.

Pricing/Configurations/Availability
The Acer^® Aspire AS5740 and AS7740 Series notebooks will be available for U.S. customers at leading retailers beginning on Jan. 17, 2010.  A sample configuration as well as specifications and pricing follow.

Acer^® Aspire AS5740G-6979 Notebook PC – Prices begin at $749.99

• Intel^® Core i5-430M^® Processor (2.26GHz, 1066MHz FSB, 3MB L3 Cache)
• 15.6-Inch HD Widescreen CineCrystal™ LED-Backlit Display (16.9 Aspect Ratio; 1366 x 768 Pixel Resolution)
• 4GB DDR3 1066Mhz Dual-Channel Memory
• Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit
• ATI Mobility Radeon^™ HD 5650 with 1GB Dedicated VRAM
• 500GB SATA Hard Drive⁽²⁾
• 8X DVD-Super Multi Double-Layer Drive
• Multi-in-1 Digital Media Card Reader
• Acer InviLink™ 802.11b/g/Draft-N+ WI-FI CERTIFIED
• 10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet LAN
• Built-in Webcam
• Two Built-In Stereo Speakers and Dolby^® Home Theater Audio Enhancement
• True 5.1 Channel Surround Sound Output
• Multi-Gesture Touchpad
• Four USB 2.0 Ports and HDMI
• 6-Cell Li-Ion Battery (4400 mAh), up to Four Hours Battery Life⁽¹⁾
• 6.16 Pounds
• Measures 15.1 (W) x 9.9 (D) x 1.03/1.05 (H) Inches
• One Year International Traveler’s Warranty

Acer^® Aspire AS7740-5142 Notebook PC – Prices begin at $749.99

• Intel^® Core i3-330M^® Processor (2.13GHz, 1066MHz FSB, 3MB L3 Cache)
• 17.3-Inch HD Widescreen CineCrystal™ LED-Backlit Display (16.9 Aspect Ratio; 1600 x 900 Pixel Resolution)
• 4GB DDR3 1066Mhz Dual-Channel Memory
• Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit
• Blu-ray Drive
• Intel^® Graphics Media Accelerator HD With 128 MB Dedicated System Memory
• 500GB SATA 2.5 Hard Drive⁽²⁾
• Multi-in-1 Digital Media Card Reader
• Intel^® Centrino^® Wireless-N 1000 b/g/n Wi-Fi CERTIFIED Acer Nplify
• Dolby^® Optimized Surround Sound System with Two Built-In Stereo Speakers
• Built-in Webcam
• Multi-Gesture Touchpad
• Four USB 2.0 Ports and HDMI
• 6-Cell Li-Ion Battery (4400 mAh), up to 3.5 Hours Battery Life⁽¹⁾
• 7.05 Pounds
• Measures 16.18 (W) x 10.78 (D) x 1.58/1.77 (H) Inches
• One-Year International Traveler’s Warranty

About Acer

Since its founding in 1976, Acer has constantly pursued the goal of breaking the barriers between people and technology. Focused on marketing its brand-name IT products around the globe, Acer ranks as the world’s No. 3 vendor for total PCs⁽³⁾ and No. 2 for notebooks,⁽⁴⁾ with the fastest growth among the top-five players. A profitable and sustainable Channel Business Model is instrumental to Acer’s continued growth, while the successful mergers of Gateway and Packard Bell complete the company’s global footprint by strengthening its presence in the U.S. and enhancing its strong position in Europe. The Acer Group employs more than 6,000 people worldwide. 2008 revenues reached US$16.65 billion. See www.acer.com for more information.

UPDATE: HP has released images and a video of its new Slate PC product coming out later this year.

In an effort to connect the internet to you wherever you might be, Sony is introducing the new Dash personal application viewer. The 7-inch color touch screen device is similar to a Chumby, but offers access to over 1,000 free applications. The Dash allows you to access content from YouTube, Pandora, Epicurious, Livestrong, Blip.tv, and even NAVTEQ traffic. Sony Music Entertainment and Sony Pictures Entertainment will also be offering custom user themes, movie trailers, and music videos. If you’re worried about missing your latest alarm clock or news headlines, the Dash can display multiple sources of content at once. The Dash will have built-in stereo speakers, a USB port for connection to other devices and a headphone output jack for listening through other headphones or speakers.

Sony expects this to hit shelves in April for $199.

LAS VEGAS (CES Booth #14200), Jan. 6, 2010 –Sony confirmed its commitment to providing consumers with innovative networked products with the introduction of the new dash™ personal Internet viewer.

Featuring a vivid 7-inch color touch screen (measured diagonally) and access to over 1,000 free Internet apps, including news, calendars, weather, sports, social networking and more, dash utilizes an existing home wireless connection to continuously deliver Internet content to its viewers.

“In today’s connected world, Sony continues to look for ways to help enhance consumers’ entertainment experiences throughout the home” said Brennan Mullin, Sony Electronics’ senior vice president of the personal imaging and audio business.  “With dash, we’re empowering consumers with a fun, interactive way to stay connected with their news, entertainment, interests and ultimately, their lives.”

By bundling favorite pieces of the Internet together, dash provides always fresh, personalized content at a glance.  The new product offers free access to more than 1,000 apps from chumby industries, inc. as well as the robust audio and video content from Sony’s Bravia™ Internet video platform, including YouTube™, Pandora® Internet radio, Epicurious, Crackle, Livestrong™, Blip.tv and much more.

Other content includes a NAVTEQ® app for easily accessible traffic updates on a customized route, and a Cozi™ app for simple management and synching of family calendars.  Further, Sony Music Entertainment and Sony Pictures Entertainment will be contributing exclusive dash apps for movie trailers, music videos, custom user themes and more, including an app from Dr. Oz offering daily health and exercise tips.

In addition, Sony dash can run multiple sources of content simultaneously, so for example, Internet radio can be enjoyed while browsing through online photo albums.  Or, the alarm clock can be set to play selected online videos from music, sports and other news feeds. The device also allows users to choose apps either directly from the device or online through a PC, and new content for dash will continue to be added moving forward.

Within the device, an internal accelerometer supports vertical flip, allowing for two optional viewing angles: upright, ideal for a table or nightstand; and tilted, perfect for a countertop. It also supports multiple user profiles and channels, allowing several members of the household to create and maintain their own customized view of the Internet.

The dash personal Internet viewer also features built-in stereo speakers as well as a USB port for simple connection to a variety of external electronic devices. Additionally, a headphone output jack gives users the option to listen privately through headphones or through external speakers.

Sony’s dash will be available this April for about $199 at www.sonystyle.com, Sony Style® retail stores and a variety of authorized dealers nationwide.

The $21,000 professional 3D HD camera’s price tag is bound to scare away any non-professional users, but offers an easier option to movie producers to film 3D content. Instead of dealing with multiple cameras, this single, portable camera contains two lenses that dynamically focus on the convergence point, making for little to no calibration on the user’s behalf. Expect this made-to-order camera to go on sale this fall.

As far as the new line of TVs, expect new 50-64″ Viera HDTVs with 3D capability. Like LG, Panasonic has partnered with companies like Skype and YouTube to provide for on-television connectivity without a computer. Again, similar to the LG series, you can attach a camera and Skype directly from the comfort of your living room. As a complement to these new 3D-compatible TVs (which require trendy “active-shutter glasses” for the 3D effect), Panasonic also announced new Blu-ray players with full support for 3D content.

For a full list of Panasonic press releases, click here.

As I’m writing this, Samsung’s press event is currently going on at CES, and boy have they been busy this year. From a new HDTV line to refrigerators with four french doors, Samsung is causing quite a stir from all their announcements. One item out of all of these that caught our eye, however, was the CL80.

This AMOLED sporting camera features a 3.7″ touchscreen, as well as a Bluetooth / WiFi antenna built in. This means easy (and realtime) transfer of pictures to your computer, TV (DLNA supported), or whatever else might support it. On top of this ease of use, the camera is an astounding .77 inches thick. Considering that in those .77 inches there are WiFi/Bluetooth antennas, a 7x optical zoom, and a 14.2 megapixel CCD, the size is absolutely amazing.

As with most consumer digital cameras these days, you get typical face recognition, image stabilization, and some simple photo effects. Also included is a “panorama shot” mode which lets you stitch together panoramic pictures without using a computer. I’m a bit skeptical as to how well that’ll work, but who knows? Keep a look out for this camera this spring. At any rate, the full press release is below.

Las Vegas, NV (January 6, 2010) - Samsung Electronics America, Inc., a market leader and award-winning innovator in consumer electronics, today unveiled the CL80 and TL240, a pair of stylish, 14.2 mega-pixel digital cameras that are fully loaded with an array of impressive features that truly enhance the digital imaging experience for consumers. Highlighted by ergonomic and elegant designs, the new Samsung CL80 and TL240 are ideal for the consumer‑on-the-go looking for a camera that can do it all.  The CL80 adds even more great functionality with the integration of Wi-Fi* connectivity and a 3.7-inch WVGA AMOLED touch screen, while the TL240 features an impressive 3.5-inch touch screen. Also, the CL80 has received a 2010 CES Innovation Award. The CL80 and TL240 will be on display during the 2010 International Consumer Electronics Show, January 7-10, 2010, in the Samsung booth #11026 in the Central Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center.

“Consumers are looking for that great all-in-one camera – a digital camera that takes great pictures, is visually appealing, and provides a wealth of features to ensure a great image or video every time,” said Mr. SJ Park, CEO of Samsung Digital Imaging Company. “The CL80 and TL240 deliver on that need for consumers to have a camera that does it all, and in the case of the CL80 we’ve taken it even a step further by providing several connectivity options to share those photos and videos on the go.”

Appealing Design Adds to Ease-of-Use

Samsung’s design engineers were able to produce one of the most remarkable camera designs in the industry with the help of hydro-forming technology for the CL80 and TL240. Hydro-forming allows for greater flexibility during the design process and gives manufacturers the ability to produce smoother silhouettes, seamless bonding, and higher quality surfaces. The CL80 and the TL240 are the first consumer electronic products ever to be manufactured using hydro-forming technology.

Despite their svelte 0.77-inch stainless-steel frames, the CL80 and the TL240 house impressive Schneider‑KREUZNACH lenses which boast a design inspired by the mirror-writings of Leonardo da Vinci. When powered up, the cameras’ lens barrels extend and the lens specifications, including focal length and speed, appear with a hidden color accent in the concave reflective ring that surrounds each lens. These specifications are inscribed in reverse on the cameras’ lens barrels and disappear when the lens naturally retracts into the camera body.  The distinctive design makes an immediate and lasting impression.

The Samsung CL80 and TL240 are also highlighted by a slanted design, which places the back of the camera at a seven degree angle.  This subtle design accent proves to be extremely useful for consumers who are interested in taking self-portraits and group shots.  The issue that many consumers face when taking self-portraits or group shots with traditional digital cameras is that the camera must be positioned much higher than the subjects in order to capture the complete image.  Thanks to the seven degree angling of the CL80 and TL240, the lenses will always be pointed at the subjects’ faces even if the camera is positioned at a lower angle.  Furthermore, unlike traditional shutter buttons which sit flat on top of the camera, the CL80 and TL240 offer slanted shutter buttons which make the cameras more comfortable to hold and operate.

Wireless Connectivity

The CL80 allows consumers to share their video and photos on the go without being tethered to their laptops or home PCs thanks to its wireless connectivity options, which include Bluetooth 2.0, Wi-Fi and DLNA.  Using an available Wi-Fi connection, users can send a digital image to any email address using the camera’s touch‑screen QWERTY keypad or selecting those stored the camera’s address book. Users can also utilize the QWERTY keypad to include text within the body of the email. The CL80’s Wi‑Fi connection also allows users to upload their images directly to popular websites such as Facebook®, Picasa™ and YouTube®, as well as SamsungImaging.com.

The CL80 also includes Samsung’s AllShare feature, which allows consumers to share content, including photos and videos, with other DLNA certified devices such as HDTVs and digital photo frames.  This gives the CL80 user a seamless way to wirelessly transfer 720p HD video in addition to digital still images.  To maximize speed and efficiency, all images transferred through Wi-Fi will be reduced to a resolution of two mega-pixels.

Bluetooth 2.0 connectivity is also included in the CL80, allowing users to share and transfer photos directly with Bluetooth 2.0 compatible mobile phones. When using Bluetooth 2.0, the CL80 will automatically resize the digital image to a resolution of 1024×768 (1MB).

Smart Gesture Touch-Screen User Interface

The Samsung CL80 incorporates an impressive 3.7-inch wide WVGA AMOLED screen, while the TL240 features a 3.5” touch screen TFT LCD. Both cameras’ massive displays house Samsung’s Smart Gesture touch‑screen user interface which is complimented by an internal Gravity sensor for added ease‑of‑use. Smart Gesture is one of the most advanced and accurate touch-screen user interfaces on the market, and it gives users the ability to access and use key features with either a simple tilt or a hand gesture. The Smart Gesture adds a level of fun to the way users interact with and enjoy their content, allowing them to quickly scroll through their photos with a swipe of their finger or by slightly tilting the camera in either direction. Users can also easily delete photos from their library using Smart Gesture by marking an “X” on the screen with their finger, or rotate an image by drawing a circle (O) on the screen.

Smart Gesture UI also offers useful auto-focusing options such as object tracking and one-touch auto focusing.  Object tracking enables users to focus on any area by touching the location on the screen with their fingertip. Once the object or location is selected, the cameras will lock and keep their focus on the subject even if it’s moving within the frame. Users can also proceed to take that photo by continuing to hold the location with their finger for two seconds, thanks to the cameras’ one-touch auto focusing capabilities.

Powerful Optical Zoom

The CL80 and the TL240 offer powerful 7x optical zooms on the high-performance, oversized Schneider‑KREUZNACH lenses. To help reduce blur, these impressive lenses are paired with Samsung’s Dual Image Stabilization technology, which combines both optical and digital stabilizers to counteract the negative effects of a user’s shaky hand. End-users can also take advantage of the cameras’ 7x optical zooms and optical image stabilization while recording video. Both the CL80 and the TL240 offer 720p HD video recording at 30 frames-per-second in H.264 format.  The cameras also come complete with built-in HDMI connectivity, giving users the ability to effortlessly view their HD video and digital still images on an HDTV or HD monitor.

The new Samsung CL80 and TL240 also make it easier than ever for consumers to capture the perfect shot thanks to Samsung’s Smart Auto 2.0 (Still & Movie) scene recognition technology.  Smart Auto 2.0 technology will automatically recognize the user’s current shooting environment and select the appropriate settings to achieve the best results possible. Additionally, Samsung’s Smart Auto 2.0 scene recognition technology can also be used to record video, producing the highest‑quality footage and results no matter where consumers will be using the cameras.

An insane release of 39 LCD and eight plasmas by LG at CES today is simply stunning. They’re quite attractive, thin, and packed full of features. The upper-level models (the PK950 which is pictured above and the PK750) achieved THX Display Certification and feature a TruBlack Filter to maintain healthy black levels even in well-lit rooms. Additionally, the TVs have a bezel that measures only .9 inches, making for a compact and unobstructed screen.

Boasting an incredible set of features, some of the TVs announced support Skype (by just plugging in an external webcam), YouTube, Netflix, VUDU, Napster, and more. Tie all this in with their Wireless Media Hub and you’ll be able to stream HD content from up to 98 feet away without wires. Sounds like quite the setup if you ask me.

Oh, and one more thing. Apparently the PK950 will have a “Magic Wand” remote system that allows you to intuitively navigate menus and even play embedded games for a “Wii-like” experience. For all our sake (and especially for the many people with existing universal remotes), let’s hope traditional remote controls are still included/supported.

Full press release below.

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 6, 2010 – LG Electronics underscored its commitment to the plasma HDTV category with eight new models for 2010, led by the new LG INFINIA series, which represents the best in LG’s design, technology and entertainment options.

Featuring new picture-enhancing technology and lightweight designs in a variety of screen sizes, four new plasma series – the INFINIA PK950 and PK750, as well as the PK550 and PJ350– were introduced today at the International Consumer Electronics Show, (Booth #8205).

Design and Picture Enhancement
LG has completely redesigned its plasma line for 2010, resulting in plasma sets that are slimmer and lighter than ever before. At only around two-inches in depth, the 2010 models are approximately 37 percent thinner than previous models and dramatically lighter. In the most extreme case, the weight of a 60-inch plasma HDTV was reduced by more than 40 percent to a svelte 95 pounds.

LG’s new plasma series includes stunning new designs, such as the single-layer design of the PK750 and PK950, and the “TruSlim Frame” on the PK550 and PJ350 models, which boasts a bezel width of just 0.9-inches. Wireless capability contributes to the freedom of infinite entertainment possibilities.

Setting a new standard in picture quality, the PK750 and PK950 models have achieved THX Display Certification*. These models also feature 600Hz Sub-Field Driving, a protective “Skin Glass,” Dual XD Engine and a TruBlack Filter to provide consumers with superior picture quality in a bright room. The 600Hz Sub-Field Driving improves moving picture response time using a 10 sub-field per frame driving process, ultimately offering consumers a clearer picture.

The Protective Skin Glass system reduces the gap between the outer glass and filter by 70 percent, virtually eliminating double imaging and helping to reduce glare. LG’s exclusive Dual XD Engine facilitates up-conversion of standard definition content to near high-definition quality, so consumers can enjoy improved image quality with everything they watch. It also provides extremely accurate color reproduction. The incorporation of the TruBlack Filter reduces ambient light reflection, providing consumers with better black levels and improving contrast for a sharper and more detailed picture in a bright room.

“Plasma TV technology is still considered the gold standard of picture quality by discerning home theater enthusiasts,” said Tim Alessi, director of product development, LG Electronics USA. “LG’s 2010 plasma line combines new technology, such as the TruBlack Filter and superior color accuracy, with striking new designs that are slimmer, narrower and lighter, demonstrating LG’s commitment to innovation in the plasma category.”

Content and Connectivity
The PK950* and PK750* plasma series boast a connectivity package with a variety of entertainment options including NetCast Entertainment Access™. With this NetCast feature, consumers can access an array of online content options**:
• Skype™: Newly added in 2010, this allows consumers to make free video and voice calls over the Internet to family members and friends (Separate camera and other equipment needed and sold separately).
• Netflix™: Updated with Netflix 2.0, consumers can stream thousands of movies without a PC.
• VUDU™: Allows consumers to instantly buy or rent from an extensive library of movies and TV titles, including a catalog of more than 2,000 high-definition movies – with no monthly fees or additional hardware.
• YouTube™: Offers the ability to instantly stream millions of Web videos directly from the Internet (without a personal computer).
• Napster™: Napster subscribers can now enjoy unlimited on-demand streaming music from millions of songs on their NetCast TV.
• Yahoo! Widget Engine™: Enables access to various applications called TV Widgets that allow viewers to interact with popular Internet services and online media through applications specifically tailored to the needs of the watcher, such as up-to-the minute Yahoo! News, Weather and Finance, and new widgets, including CNBC, CBS and Showtime.

LG Electronics has incorporated the Digital Living Network Alliance (DLNA) technology across the full line of plasma models. This allows consumers to access content stored on other DLNA-certified devices within the home, such as computers, making content options almost limitless.

Providing easy options for connecting to the Internet, in addition to the wired Ethernet jack, all NetCast-enabled sets can also integrate into a wireless home network by using a USB wireless broadband adaptor (sold separately). Both PK950 and PK750 models support multi-media playback from a connected USB device including photos (JPEG), music (MP3) and video (DivX HD).

For greater convenience and flexibility in setup and installation, all LG Plasma series with NetCast offer wireless Full HD 1080p transmission from a “Wireless Media Hub” from up to 98 feet. Connecting source components, such as Blu-ray Disc players, cable or satellite boxes and video games to the media hub enables transmission to a compact receiver adaptor which attaches to the back of the TV, hidden from view. This eliminates the need for individual components to be connected directly to the TV, making for a clean and easy installation and removal of unsightly wires (Media Hub and receiver adaptor sold separately as a package).

Controls
LG’s PK950 series also incorporates a unique “Magic Wand” remote system that provides an immersive interaction with the set. This “Magic” user interface brings together menus, component controls and even embedded games which can be accessed using a simple remote that combines minimal buttons and gestures to control the on-screen activity, mirroring a “Wii-like” experience.
Plasma Expansion
A founding member of the Plasma Display Coalition, LG also introduced two other series of plasmas this week at CES. The PK550 and PJ350 models offer consumers a 1080p and 720p plasma option respectively and do not compromise on features or design. Both series boast LG’s TruSlim Frame, reducing the bezel width to only 0.9 inches, along with a slim 2-inch depth and the protective Skin Glass system for picture quality improvement. This is in addition to the many value-added core features found on virtually all LG HDTV products.

The PK550 Full HD 1080p series (available in 50-and 60-inch class sizes*) features a TruSlim Frame and slim profile for a clean, modern look. It also incorporates 600Hz Sub-Field Driving, Intelligent Sensor technology for energy savings and USB 2.0 for additional content viewing options.

The 720p PJ350 series (available in 42- and 50-inch class sizes*) also offers consumers the TruSlim Frame and slim profile for a clean, modern look, as well as 600Hz Sub-Field Driving in two display sizes. The USB 2.0 feature and three HDMI ports allow consumers to connect to a variety of entertainment devices.

Core Plasma Features
For easy self-calibration, all plasma lines feature LG’s Picture Wizard II technology, which provides on-screen reference points for key picture quality elements, such as black level, color, tint, sharpness and backlight levels. Also included in the new plasma lines are ISFccc calibration options to deliver the level of calibration filmmakers intended viewers to see. Others include:
• Intelligent Sensor: Automatically calibrates and optimizes brightness, contrast, white balance and color, based on the brightness and color temperature of lighting in the room – thereby saving on energy output in most circumstances.
• Clear Voice II: An enhancement to Clear Voice, this feature customizes volume settings by 12 distinct voice zoom levels without diminishing other surrounding sounds, helping ensure consumers don’t miss a single line of dialogue during action sequences.
• AV Mode II: Includes three AV modes preset to optimize picture and sound settings based on Cinema, Sports or Game content which can be easily set with the remote control.

*PK950 60-inch class size/60-inch diagonal
*PK750 60-inch class size/60-inch diagonal
*PK550 60-inch class size/60-inch diagonal
*PK550 50-inch class size/50-inch diagonal
*PJ350 50-inch class size/50-inch diagonal
*PJ350 42-inch class size/42-inch diagonal

* Specifications subject to change without notice.
* THX certification is pending final testing and approval by THX Ltd.

** Internet connection on subscriptions required and sold separately.

For such a fun new phone, GT540 seems like quite the fitting name. The style of the phone reminds me of a Blackberry, which is nothing outlandishly attractive. LG claims they’ve added multiple color themes to enhance the user’s individuality.

To be fair, the GT540 does have some multimedia perks going for it, including WMV and DivX playback, a 3 megapixel camera, and up to 32 GB of expandable storage. Expect the phone to be launched this April.

Decide for yourself. Check out the press release below.

LAS VEGAS, January 7, 2010 – LG Electronics (LG), a global leader and technology innovator in consumer electronics, today unveiled the LG GT540, a specialized social networking smartphone running Google’s popular Android, at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.

Following hot on the heels of LG’s first Android smartphone, LG GW620, the LG GT540 creates a fun and familiar social networking environment with LG’s new social networking tool. Through the integrated SNS Manager, the LG GT540 provides quick and easy access to today’s most popular social networking sites such as Facebook, Twitter, and Bebo.

With characteristic innovation, the LG GT540 is the ideal smartphone for first-time smartphone users. LG has designed the GT540 with a splash of sassy style that challenges the traditionally tech-heavy look of smartphones while enhanced customization that includes four color variations and personalized themes and widgets ensures users they won’t have to sacrifice their individuality.

The LG GT540 also aims to entertain with must-have multimedia features such as DivX and WMV playback, a motion UI player and a broad variety of hardware features including a 3-megapixel AF camera and up to 32 gigabytes of expandable microSD memory.

Supporting the full suite of Google mobile services, the LG GT540 provides access to Google Maps, Google Search, Gmail, YouTube and Android Market where users can download from thousands of popular applications and games.

The LG GT540 will be launched globally from April 2010.

The Exilim line goes as far back as creating the first “fashion” cameras that were thinner than any model before it, and Casio today has introduced four new models with 10x optical zoom in a compact enclosure and the ability to shoot HD video. The new EX-FH100 has a high-speed burst mode for getting those easy-to-miss shots up close, and the Exilim EX-H15, EX-Z2000, and EX-Z550 include a new feature called Dynamic Photo, which allows you to combine different moving images directly on the camera. Think of it like a green-screen in your pocket, though we can’t vouch for the quality just yet. The high-speed EX-FH100 features a 10.1 megapixel sensor and can record high-speed movies up to 1000 frames per second, capturing motion that the human eye can’t even see, while the EX-H15, EX-Z2000 and EX-Z550 have 14.1 megapixel sensors.

No word on pricing or availability yet, but we’ll keep on the look out for any new details. We’ve included all the press shots below in a gallery.

EX-FH100 Back

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