05/08, 4:43pm
Apps include local content as well as nationally syndicated programming
Media streamer hardware maker Roku has deployed a new app set, adding PBS and PBS Kids content to most of its line of video streaming set-top boxes within the US. Now available for streaming are shows such as American Experience, Antiques Roadshow, Frontline, Nova, Masterpiece, and Nature. Children's programming now available due to the new additions include Curious George, Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood, Dinosaur Train, The Cat in the Hat Knows a Lot About That!, and Super WHY.
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05/07, 7:47am
Included display provides usage statistics, remaining allowance
AT&T has added to its range of 4G LTE connectivity devices with a built-in display. The AT&T Beam from Sierra Wireless is a USB modem that connects to the carrier's 4G LTE network, and like the MiFi Liberate, it comes with its own LCD panel to provide important details, such as the strength of the signal and how much data is remaining in the monthly allowance.
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05/06, 3:19pm
Pressure-sensitive stylus and digital ruler still in development
Adobe showed off a hardware project for drawing it has been working on at its MAX Conference. Project Mighty is a pressure-sensitive stylus for tablets that is connected to the Adobe Creative Cloud, while Napoleon is an accompanying ruler that effectively works as a protractor for Project Mighty to work with in the tablet app.
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05/03, 3:14pm
iMacs, printers and more
This weeks deals from DealNN include bargain prices on iMacs, printers, monitors and more. Currently MacConnection.com has the 21.5-inch iMac for $1,279, which is $220 off the MSRP and the lowest price we have seen on this iMac by about $90. Free shipping is included, but sales tax applies for residents of New York state. The 21.5-inch iMac features a 2.7GHz Intel Core i5 processor, 8GB of RAM and a 1TB hard drive. Included are an Apple Bluetooth wireless keyboard, Magic Mouse, and one-year warranty on parts and labor from Apple.
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05/03, 1:33pm
Device able to print 5.5-inch 3D objects from PLA, ABS plastic
Office supply chain Staples has started selling 3D printers through its online store, and a number of its retail locations by the end of June. The store is stocking the Cube 3D printer from 3D Systems, a personal desktop 3D printer capable of creating an object measuring 5.5-inches in height, width, and depth from ABS and compostable PLA plastic.
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05/02, 3:59pm
Capable of 600dpi scans, 20 color pages per minute at 300dpi
HP has announced the availability of the Scanjet Pro3000 s2 for business users. Said to plug into existing scanning platforms, the sheet feed scanner includes a 50-page automatic feeder for mass document scanning, and is capable of scanning A4-sized pages at 300dpi in color at up to 20 pages per minute.
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04/30, 3:09pm
27-inch iMac cut to $2,899
This week, MacMall.com has lowered the price on the 27-inch iMac from $2,949 down to $2,899 with free shipping. That's a savings of $49, making this the lowest price on this iMac brand new. This iMac features a 3.4GHz Intel Core i7 processor, 16GB of RAM and a 3TB Fusion Drive with NVIDIA GeForce GTX 680MX graphics processor and two Thunderbolt ports. Included with it are an Apple wireless keyboard, Magic Mouse, and one-year warranty on parts and labor from Apple.
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04/30, 3:05pm
Service would automatically select best contact method
Apple has won a pair of new patents from the US Patent and Trademark Office, says AppleInsider. One, Method and system for facilitating contacting people using electronic devices, describes a software system in which a person can be automatically informed of the best way to contact someone, and on the receiving side, pick what the best contact method for a given time is. In an example provided by Apple, the contacting party might want to talk to someone who's currently driving, but email or a text message might be more appropriate.
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04/29, 6:30pm
Speedy OSX and Windows USB 3.0 RAID implementation tested
Apple was one of the first -- if not the first -- major computer manufacturers to provide then-fledgling USB support at the expense of legacy ports on its iMac line some 15 ago. Since then, the Mac maker hasn't always been the fastest at adding new USB protocols to machines, generally lagging six months or more behind, depending on the product line. The Mac Pro is languishing these days, awaiting a revamp -- but still has no USB 3.0 ports, despite an incremental update last summer boosting the speed of the computer somewhat. Highpoint Technologies has had strong support for the Macintosh and OS X despite only one current line of hardware having PCI-E slots. The latest offering from the company is the quad-channel Rocket-U 1144CM 4x PCI-E USB 3.0 card for the Mac Pro, and MacNN got a chance to test one out.
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04/29, 1:21pm
Fan schedules, companion apps get tweaks
Nest Labs is pushing out a v3.5 update to owners of the Nest Learning Thermostat at 9PM Eastern today. The firmware upgrade includes two new modes, beginning with Cool to Dry, which turns on air conditioning to reduce humidity. A Sunblock setting should meanwhile prevent the thermostat from turning on unnecessarily when direct sunlight is hitting the Nest's sensor.
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04/26, 3:56pm
MBP for $2,099, 64GB Touch for $329
Deals from DealNN this week include price cuts on MacBook Pros, iPods and more. Today's deal of the day from MacMall.com is on the 15.4-inch MacBook Pro which has been reduced by $549, lowering the cost from $2,649 down to $2,099. This MBP features a 2.7GHz Intel quad-core i7 processor, 8GB of RAM and a 1TB hard drive with Bluetooth, FaceTime camera, USB 3.0, and Thunderbolt. A one-year warranty on parts and labor is included from Apple.
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04/25, 4:35pm
CEO talks 'living up to expectations'
The shipping date for the Leap Motion 3D Motion Controller has been delayed from May 13th until July 22, says the company's CEO. Michael Buckwald revealed the information during a conference call earlier today. "There’s nothing catastrophically wrong," he explained, "we’re very proud of the product … if we’d tried very hard we would have been able to ship the product [on the original date] but we wouldn’t have had the time to do the iteration and testing that we would want to do otherwise."
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04/24, 1:13pm
Ties to Sprint network may make service more useful
Mobile data provider FreedomPop has announced an expansion of its 3G coverage through support for Sprint. The change is effective immediately, and should enable nationwide access, solving some complaints about gaps in the carrier's service. The company sells cases and hotspots that enable otherwise Wi-Fi-only devices to get 3G/4G connections; each accessory comes with 500MB of free 4G data per month.
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04/22, 9:36pm
New battery gives up to four hours of runtime for Retina display laptops
Power solutions provider QuickerTek, has just unveiled an external battery for the Apple MacBook Pro line of laptops, including models with the new Retina display. The new EyeBattery adds up to four more hours of battery power to the MacBook Pro. Two models support either version of the MagSafe connector present on varying models of Apple's Intel-based laptops.
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04/21, 3:50am
Keyboards, Magsafe, Airport devices, cables and more now available
Coming on the heels of a similar expansion of Apple offerings in US Staples stores in February, Radio Shack has opted to expand its current line of Apple-made iOS accessories with additional offerings aimed at Mac owners, including wired (and wireless) keyboards, Magic Mouses and Trackpads, Magsafe power adapters, USB SuperDrives, Airport products and various cables and adapters. The company has also added an accessories section to its Apple product page, and is offering a $10 store credit for purchases over $30 from the section.
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04/20, 3:30pm
Entire new G-series of peripherals now OS X compatible
As part of Logitech's rebranding initiative for its gaming products, the company has revealed that the Logitech Gaming Software (LGS) has been updated to support Max OS X for the entire G-line of gaming peripherals. The new versions allow gamers to "enjoy the same great personalization and customized control our PC customers have come to reply on" according to the official Logitech blog.
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04/19, 1:50pm
1.8GHz i5 MacBook Air, now $1,250
At eCost.com this week, save $48 on the 13.3-inch MacBook Air, which has been reduced from $1,299 to $1,250. That's the lowest price we have seen on this Mac model anywhere. Free shipping is included, but sales tax applies for residents of California, Texas and Tennessee. This MBA features a 1.8GHz Intel Core i5 processor, 8GB of RAM and 128GB of flash storage with Intel HD Graphics 4000, and Mac OS X Lion. A one-year warranty on parts and labor is included from Apple.
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04/12, 5:05pm
MacBook Pro, printers and more
MacMall.com's deal of the day today is on the 13.3-inch Retina MacBook Pro. It is regularly priced at $2,200, but has been reduced by $350 to $1,850. That discount makes this the lowest price we have seen on this Mac model by about $250. Free US shipping is included, but sales tax applies for residents of California, Tennessee and Wisconsin. The 13.3-inch MacBook Pro features a 2.9GHz Intel dual-core i7 processor, 8GB of RAM and 512GB of flash storage along with Intel HD graphics, Bluetooth, Thunderbolt and FaceTime camera. A one-year warranty on parts and labor is also included from Apple.
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04/02, 4:01pm
Lenovo IdeaPad S400, cut to $399, more
This week, TigerDirect.com has reduced the price of the 14-inch Lenovo IdeaPad S400 notebook PC from $540 down to $400 for a savings of $140. That's about $70 less than the lowest price we've seen anywhere else. Free shipping is included, but sales tax applies for residents of FL, IL, TX, and NC. The Lenovo IdeaPad S400 features a 1.8GHz Intel Core i3 processor, 4GB of RAM and a 500GB hard drive. Windows 8 is pre-installed, and a one-year warranty on parts and labor is included from Lenovo.
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03/27, 5:51am
Microsoft receives Touch Cover patent, patent for magnetic latch
Microsoft has won patents for the ornamental design of its Touch Cover for the Surface hybrid as well as for the cover’s magnetic latching mechanism. The patent for the ornamental design of the Touch Cover is very similar to Apple’s controversial ornamental design patents invoked in lawsuits most notably against Samsung. However, the patent for the magnetic latching mechanism is for its functional design.
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03/26, 7:52am
Logitech intros two new integrated Keyboard Folios for iPad, iPad min
Logitech has taken the wraps off its new Keyboard Folio for iPad and Keyboard Folio for iPad mini. The new products are the latest in Logitech’s popular line of keyboard accessories for Apple’s iPads. According to Logitech, the new Folios offer an additional layer of protection over its Ultrathin Keyboard Covers.
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03/22, 1:54pm
55-inch Samsung 3D LED HDTV cut to $1,152
At Amazon this week, save 47 percent on the Samsung 55-inch 3D LED slim HDTV which had a list price of $2,450, but has been reduced to $1,298, a savings of $1,152. That's lower than the lowest price we have seen anywhere else by about $400. Free US Super Saver shipping is included, but sales tax applies for residents of Kansas, Kentucky, New York, North Dakota, or Washington. This Smart TV features 1080p resolution, full 2D or 3D in HD, a built-in web browser, Wi-Fi and includes streaming services such as Netflix, VUDU and HuluPlus. Also included are a web camera, four pairs of 3D active glasses, and a one-year warranty from Samsung.
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03/20, 8:29pm
New devices tailored for comfort and extended play sessions
While input device manufacturer Logitech has made gaming-focused accessories for some time, the company is now formalizing the G-series of gamer input devices. Prior to design of the new models, the company claims to have "studied the interaction between hand and device during gameplay" and have enhanced the devices with fingerprint-resistant coatings, hydrophobic materials and durable switches, allowing for long product life. Today, the company unveiled four new mice, two keyboards, and two gaming headsets. All of the new products are expected to see wide retail release in April.
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03/20, 7:36am
Asus branching out into Alienware territory?
Asus has taken the wraps off its first ‘hardcore’ gaming mouse, the Republic of Gamers GX1000. The new mouse is clad in aluminum and incorporates a wide range of programmable functions to help ensure optimal gaming control, while its shape is also designed to reduce fatigue during long sessions. Users can customize dpi switching and indication on the fly, while also being able to program six different macros.
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03/19, 2:56pm
Makes ease-of-use upgrades
Hulu has launched a new version of its Apple TV app for Hulu Plus subscribers. The app uses a new interface, for example adding TV, Movies, Kids, and Latino content categories to the top navigation bar. Each category highlights both new content and any series a person already watches. Along similar lines, the app as a whole sports a new "Shows You Watch" tray, which makes it easier to return to commonly-watched material.
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03/19, 1:40pm
Toshiba 23-inch all-in-one, now $999
This week, JR.com has reduced the price of the Toshiba 23-inch all-in-one desktop PC from $1,150 down to $1,000, a savings of $150. That discount makes this the lowest price we have seen on this computer by $30. Free shipping is available, and sales tax applies for residents of New York. The Toshiba desktop PC features a 2.4GHz Intel Core i7 processor, 8GB of RAM and a 1TB hard drive. A pre-paired Bluetooth mouse and keyboard are included, along with Windows 8, Microsoft Office Trial, a 30-day subscription to Norton Internet Security 2013, and a one-year limited warranty from Toshiba.
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03/18, 1:45pm
Galaxy S 4 to feature built-in HP printing support
HP and Samsung have partnered up to provide native HP printing support in the upcoming Samsung Galaxy S 4. The built-in printing support will allow Galaxy S 4 owners to send a printable file to most HP Inkjet and LaserJet network printers without the need to download an app. Support is included for more than 180 different HP network printers, as well as for numerous printing options such as duplex printing, orientation, and paper type.
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03/16, 10:46pm
Nest founder says he doesn't expect customers to buy a new unit every year
Popular iOS-compatible smart thermostat Nest isn't designed to be replaced every couple of years like the smartphones it can interface with. This according to Nest founder Matt Rogers, who touted the device's design for longevity in a "Fireside Chat" Saturday at Engadget's Expand conference. Rogers also explained that his company's thermostat--which was updated last fall with a slimmer, sleeker design and broader compatibility--is causing significant disruption in the thermostat market, which is typically dominated by companies that don't focus on design and the consumer experience.
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03/14, 3:14pm
Props Power case for iPad and iPad mini
Digital Treasures has launched a new iPad case that integrates either a 12,000 or 8,000 mAh battery for charging the device. Available for the iPad 4, iPad 3, iPad 2, and iPad mini, the more
03/13, 7:05pm
IRIScan Mouse provides easy access to powerful OCR processing
OCR developer IRIS has announced the availability of the IRIScan Mouse, an all-in-one mouse scanner with OCR technology. The USB 2.0 device, when coupled with the software, seamlessly stitches the image together in real time. The stitched image is then evaluated, and any discovered text is converted into editable documents for use with standard word-processing applications.
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03/13, 12:54am
Supports wide range of AV receivers, third-party controllers
Whole-house audio systems maker CasaTunes has announced a line of multi-room music servers that offer built-in compatibility with multi-zone AV receivers from a variety of major-brand manufacturers such as Denon, Harmon Kardon, Yamaha, Sony, Pioneer, Marantz and Integra/Onkyo. The servers are configured using apps available for iOS and Android, and extend the capabilities of third-party controllers by adding AirPlay wireless speaker and multi-zone AV receiver support to these systems.
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03/12, 3:29pm
Chip represents new hardware
The new, smaller A5 chip in recent Apple TVs is actually still a Samsung design, and still built using a 32nm process, says semiconductor analysis firm Chipworks. Initial examination suggested that the processor had switched to 28nm, which might also have pointed to TSMC as the responsible manufacturer. The new information indicates that Apple has redesigned the processor, and not just shrunken it.
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03/05, 3:22pm
Push first Ableton-branded hardware
Ableton has launched Live 9, a major update of its flagship music production software. Among changes in the suite are Session automation -- the ability to record automation in real-time within a clip -- and a overhauled browser, which locates instruments, effects, samples, and plugins within a single view, and supports dragging and dropping folders from anywhere on a computer. Audio can now be converted to MIDI through Drums-to-MIDI, Harmony-to-MIDI, and Melody-to-MIDI options.
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03/05, 5:07am
Gear4 rolls out new iPhone 5 Lightning connector docks
Gear4 has taken the wraps off its AlarmDock Halo 3 and StreetParty 5, both designed for the iPhone 5 and its proprietary Lightning connector. Gear4 claims that the AlarmDock Halo 3 is the first Lightning-equipped alarm clock radio made for the iPhone 5. Both the AlarmDock Halo 3 and StreetParty 5 portable speaker dock are also Apple ‘Made for iPod, iPhone’ certified.
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03/01, 9:11am
Job losses to save company $16-$18M in 2014 fiscal year
Peripheral manufacturer Logitech is looking to lay off five percent of its workforce over the next year, as part of a cost-savings exercise. The savings, expected to total between $16 and $18 million in its 2014 fiscal year, will come partly from the loss of 140 jobs, and will be in addition to $80 million in annual operating cost savings from the company's April 2012 restructuring.
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02/25, 1:39pm
Meridian offers portable USB DAC
Meridian has introduced the Explorer, a new portable USB Digital to Analog Converter (DAC). The Explorer can connect to any Mac, Windows, or Linux computer and will act as the system's sound card. All audio signals routed through the device are passed through the built-in DAC, which should provide higher-fidelity audio, depending on the initial resolution of the audio source. In addition to a 3.5mm headphone port, the Explorer also includes an audio in port for sending external audio sources into a computer. It retails for $300.
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02/22, 6:24am
Logitech delivers wireless backlit keyboard for Mac, iOS
The Logitech Bluetooth Easy-Switch Keyboard for the Mac and iOS users, first revealed late last year, is now shipping. From a distance, the Logitech keyboard looked as though it was the Bluetooth keyboard that Mac users have been looking for with the addition of keybaord backlighting. While the Apple Wireless Keyboard is popular choice for Mac users, it does not have backlighting like its MacBook lineup. Not one to miss an opportunity in the world of peripherals, Logitech has finally developed a keyboard that fits that bill.
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02/19, 4:00pm
Killer Concepts takes shot at loud yet compact Bluetooth speaker
Headphones and portable speakers are, for my money, still the best uses of Bluetooth, at least when it comes to audio. There are other options, like connecting to a full-sized stereo or car system, but in those cases there are often equally convenient alternatives with better fidelity. It's when you're traveling somewhere that fidelity takes a back seat to qualities like compact size, or minimizing wires. On the surface the RocksteadyXS seems to fit that bill; we'll put the hardware to the test in our review.
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02/19, 12:05am
New 21.5- and 23-inch models available now
Acer America is now offering the H6 Series LED-backlit displays to consumers in the United States. The new monitors feature near zero frame construction and are available in two sizes - 21.5-inch and 23-inch. Both models have Full 1080p HD IPS panels, which allow for wide viewing angles up to 178 degrees. The new line of monitors can also tilt from -5 to 15-degrees, so users can adjust them for the most comfortable fit.
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02/15, 1:51pm
Supports indications of new device in development
Apple is searching for an Apple TV software engineering manager, a new job listing reveals. The successful candidate will have to "lead a team of engineers working on exciting new features and functionality" for the product line. Potential hires must also demonstrate experience "juggling multiple (simultaneous) high priority projects," among other qualities.
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02/13, 3:12pm
Keyboard support extends to aTV Flash features
Developer FireCore has released updated versions of aTV Flash (black) and Seas0nPass for people hoping to jailbreak Apple TVs running the new v5.2 firmware. While Seas0nPass is simply the required jailbreaking utility, aTV Flash adds new functions, such as web browsing and wider format compatibility. FireCore notes that the Bluetooth keyboard support in v5.2 carries over to Flash's features.
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02/12, 6:20pm
VS220 and VS320 aimed at small business, home office
Computer peripheral manufacturer Epson today introduced new VS-series projector models, designed to provide small businesses with high-brightness units inexpensively. The VS220 and VS320 offer SVGA and XGA resolution (respectively), and deliver 2,700 lumens of white and color brightness with HDMI connectivity for audio and video using only one cable.
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02/12, 8:05am
New display Dell's largest to date
Dell today announced the availability of a new flagship monitor -- the U3014 30-inch display. The U3014 is noted by Dell as its largest screen size to date, and ships with the company's PremierColor feature for accurate, customizable colors that cover industry standards with a large color gamut.
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02/12, 4:09am
Google finally makes Qi wireless charger available for Nexus 4
After launching the Nexus 4 in late October, Google has finally made the companion wireless charging orb for the device available on the Play store. Although users have been able to take advantage of the Nexus 4 wireless charging capabilities using third-party solutions, the official companion device has been almost as sought after as the Nexus 4 itself. Since its launch, the Nexus 4 has often been listed as out of stock on Play stores around the globe with it only recently becoming more readily available on January 29.
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02/05, 1:08pm
62% off Brother all-in-one printer and more
This week at Rakuten.com, save 62 percent on the Brother All-In-One printer, which was $250, but has been reduced to $95. This printer features print speeds of up to 35 ppm in black and 27 ppm in color, as well as a web connect TouchScreen that makes it possible to print from Facebook, Picassa, Flickr, Google Docs and more right from the printer. A free app is also available that enables printing from or scanning to an iPhone. A two-year limited warranty is included from Brother.
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02/05, 5:59am
Logitech Ultrathin Keyboard Cover for iPad mini set to ship February
Logitech has revealed its Ultrathin Keyboard Cover for the iPad mini. Although designed for the smaller iPad mini, Logitech says that it the keyboard uses full size keys. The cover keeps its weight down, but retains protective strength by utilizing an aluminum panel on its rear.
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02/04, 7:44pm
New solar panel leads the latest wave of solar charging technology
Solar energy still has a ways to go for widespread adoption, despite its 'green' nature. It doesn't have a high power density, meaning that a large area of solar panels, intense sunlight, or both, is required for optimal energy generation. Plus, the panels are expensive. Reston, VA-based Gomadic Corp supplies the former Kickstarter project SunVolt Solar Charger, in an attempt to make solar charging available to the masses, at least for portable devices. Electronista checks to see if the SunVolt has worked around common issues with solar panels.
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02/02, 8:21pm
Double Robotics' Double robot
A necessary byproduct of living in the future — as we do — appears to be the occasional bit of tech that is simultaneously very cool and remarkably impractical. Normally retailing for $2,500, and requiring the investment of at least another $500 to function, Double Robotics' Double telepresence robot fits squarely into that category. It is pretty fun to watch, though.
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01/30, 1:30pm
Exact change still undisclosed
The Apple TV that appeared in FCC documents this week is just a minor tweak of the existing model, an Apple spokesperson tells The Verge. "We sometimes make component changes which require an updated model number for regulatory approval," Apple's statement reads. "The component changes we made don't affect product features and Apple TV customers will continue to have the same great user experience."
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01/30, 11:55am
iCalc Bluetooth Keypad launched at MacWorld
SMK-Link has released a new Bluetooth Keypad that features a built in calculator. The $70 iCalc Bluetooth Calculator Keypad is designed to match the appearance of Apple's own Bluetooth keyboard, and uses magnets to attach directly to the side of the keyboard. While operating in calculator mode all input is shown on the device's built-in 12-digit display, however, support for sending electronic tape data directly to spreadsheets lets users quickly transfer data to a computer.
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