MSI WindPad U100 Win7 slate frozen in favor of Android 3.0 tablet for Q1 2011

MSI WindPad U100 Win7 slate frozen MSI has become the latest company to hold off on Windows 7 tablet plans, freezing the launch of its WindPad U100 until sometime in mid-2011 at the earliest. According to DigiTimes, MSI has announced it will instead launch an Android 3.0 Gingerbread slate by the end of March 2011, with a sub-$500 price tag and HDMI connectivity.favor of Android 3.0 tablet for Q1 2011

The Android WindPad will have a 10.1-inch touchscreen, as with its Windows 7 counterpart, together with one or more USB ports. MSI claims it will “target a different market than other tablet PCs” and offer usability benefits over the iOS-based iPad, something we can’t see Steve Jobs agreeing with. Engineering samples should be ready in December, in time for a launch at CES 2011 in January.

As for the Windows 7 slate, the U100 might never make it to market at all. MSI says it will depend on “market status”; considering we’ve heard rumors in the past that tablet manufacturers have felt unable to say no to Microsoft and Intel over creating x86 Windows-based models, because of the two companies combined market strength, we wouldn’t be surprised if MSI axed the project altogether.

Via : slashgear

MSI WindPad 100 Tablet Delayed; To Follow Android-based MSI WindPad 110

Micro-Star International (MSI) has delayed the launch of its Windows based WindPad 100 tablet. The device, which was originally scheduled to ship as soon as this past summer, will arrive only after the launch of the company’s Android based WindPad 110 tablet.

There was no confirmation on the reasons for the delay, but according to a report by Digitimes, the official launch of the WindPad 100 tablet will depend on the market status and the launch might happen only after the first quarter of next year.

But the company will make sure that its Android 3.0-powered WindPad 110 makes it out as the company’s first tablet PC and it will roll out sometime around March 2011.

The 10.1-inch WindPad 110 tablet will not surpass the $500 price point, and it will also come equipped with built-in USB and HDMI connectivity ports and will target a different market than other tablet PCs
.

The engineering samples of the device are tipped to be ready by the time of the holiday shopping season and the company has plans to showcase the device at CES 2011.

As for netbooks, the company is all set to launch dual-core Atom N550 models in November and MSI also plans to reveal a more detailed roadmap in December.

Via : devicemag

Apple's 'Back to the Mac' event roundup

Oh dear, you missed it? Don't fret, we've got links for you. So many links. Apple was short on surprises at its intimate "Back to the Mac" event today, but that doesn't mean there weren't some interesting nuggets. Mac OS X Lion and MacBook Air lead the pack, but we find it's the little things that count, and they count even more in bullet point form. It's science!

Via : engadget

Onkyo Windows 7 tablets make expensive US debut

Lenovo may not believe in Windows 7 tablets, but Onkyo certainly do, and you can now buy the hitherto Japan-only slates in the US courtesy of importer Dynamism. Three models are on offer – the Onkyo TW117A4, the Onkyo TW217A5, and the Onkyo TW317A5 – but you’ll need deep pockets given the range kicks off at $779 and finishes up at $1,129.

$779 gets you the TW117A4, with a 10.1-inch 1024 x 600 capacitive touchscreen, Atom N450 1.66GHz processor, GMA 3150 graphics, 1GB of RAM and a 160GB HDD, while $979 steps up to the TW217A5 with the same display but an Atom Z530 1.6GHz processor, GMA 500 graphics and a 32GB SSD. Finally the $1,129 TW317A5 has a higher-resolution panel, running at 1366 x 768, Atom N450 1.66GHz CPU and a 32GB SSD. The latter two also have HDMI outputs, and all three will ship in 10-15 days.

More @ slashgear

SlingPlayer for Windows Phone 7 demoed, coming soon

That WP7 third party apposphere just got a nice boost from SlingPlayer, which has announced its intention to soon be present and accounted for on Microsoft's new platform. What we've got today is a quick teaser video showing off the live TV streaming capabilities under Windows Phone 7, along with the remote set-top box controls and a switch for turning the stream's quality up. Sling Media promises up to four times the resolution available on previous Windows Mobile versions and draws a launch window around the woolly concept of "soon." See the moving pictures after the break.

Via : engadget, @arnehess (Twitter)

MSI postpones Wintel tablet PC; to launch Android model by the end of 1Q11

Micro-Star International (MSI) recently decided to postpone its Wintel-based tablet PC, which was originally scheduled to launch in the third quarter, and will launch its Android 3.0-based model as the first tablet PC product by the end of March 2011, according to the company.

The Android-based 10.1-inch Wind Pad tablet PC is set to be priced below US$500 with integrated USB and HDMI ports and will target a different market than other tablet PCs. Engineering samples of the device are expected to be ready in December and the company is set to showcase the product at CES 2011.

The 10.1-inch Wintel model is expected to be launched in the second round, but the official launch will still depend on market status.

As for the tablet PC's advantages against Apple's iPad, MSI pointed out that in addition to price, the design of USB and HDMI ports as well as enhanced user interface and software applications are all advantages and these designs will be suitable to meet consumer needs.

As for netbooks, MSI is set to launch dual-core models in November and the company also plans to reveal more details of its product lines and strategies in December.

Via : digitimes

Nintendo Wii Remote Plus is just $39, gets included in shiny new red bundle

We've been waiting for it to get more official in more places, and Nintendo's finally spilling the beans on the American release for its Wii Remote Plus. As you'll surely know, the controller takes that unsightly MotionPlus attachment and bundles it right into an otherwise stock looking Wiimote, and will do so at a very fair price of $39.99. That new model will also be included in a new Wii bundle, in which the little console is so charmed by its new controller that it's blushed into a bright crimson (again). Or maybe it's the included copy of New Super Mario Bros. Regardless, that'll be $199, and that new, 25th Anniversary red DSi XL bundle Nintendo announced last month is official too, costing $179. All three launch in just a couple weeks, on November 7, so get ready to ditch those dongles.

Via : engadget

Armenian-language version of Windows 7 to appear soon

An Armenian-language version of the Windows 7 operating system will be ready before the end of this year, Grigor Barseghyan, the head of the Microsoft office in Yerevan, told NEWS.am. The new version has improved on the previous one. Specifically, the spellchecker has significantly been upgraded.

“The previous version has a 90% error correction level, but the new version has an even higher percentage. We paid rather careful attention to the spellchecker,” Barseghyan said.

He pointed out that terms will simplified in the new version. The developers considered the advice both by users and by specialists.

Barseghyan also reported that an Armenian-language version of Microsoft Office 2010 will be ready during the first three months of next year.

Via : news

Samsung's new SyncMaster monitors: DisplayPort, 16:10, tres European

If you find the typical 16:9 display ratio to be too upsetting or distracting for the cubicle (kind of like the switch from black and white to color in The Wizard of Oz), Samsung has announced a pair of TCO 5.0 certified 16:10 monitors featuring D-sub, DVI, and DisplayPort connectivity perfect for the office. The 22-inch SyncMaster 2243DW sports a 50,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio and a 5 millisecond response time, while the 24-inch SyncMaster 2443DW sports a dynamic contrast ratio of 70,000:1. Available for €269 ($378) and €329 ($460) respectively. Look for 'em in Europe later this month, if you feel so inclined.

Via : engadget, Samsung.de (2243DW), (2443DW), SemiAccurate

Telegraph Fashion App for Windows Phone 7

Enjoy the best of the Telegraph's fashion writing, shopping tips and picture galleries brought to you in association with Microsoft's new mobile phone operating system, Windows Phone 7.

The brand new operating system features a home screen which includes hubs and live tiles: icons that give you the latest information, such as emails received or messages from social networking sites.

It also gives you instant access to your apps, including Telegraph Fashion - an official launch partner with Windows Phone 7 - for all the latest from the catwalk to the high street.

The app offers fashion News and Features, Picture Galleries, Hot Topics and our ‘I Spied’ section of must-buy clothes, as well as Beauty News and columns by the Telegraph's top fashion writers including Hilary Alexander, our Fashion Director.

Telegraph Fashion is available in Marketplace - the app hub on your Windows Phone 7 mobile.

To get the app:

• Visit Marketplace.
• Select 'Applications'.
• Search for Telegraph Fashion.
• Press 'Buy' twice to confirm your purchase (the app is free - you are just downloading it).

Via : telegraph

Garmin-Asus A10 Android phone launched in India for Rs 18,990

As we earlier reported, Garmin-Asus JV has released its Android powered nuvifone A10 in India. A10 runs on Android 2.1, but is upgradable to Android 2.2 according to the company.

Being a navigation oriented smartphone, Garmin-Asus A10 offers support for multiple navigation modes like Professional Pedestrian Navigation and In-car Navigation.

“We are extremely pleased to launch the A10 which is our first Android powered Navigation smartphone to be launched in India. The A10 is an extremely powerful smartphone that has navigation capabilities equivalent to Garmin’s premium automotive navigation devices. It enables users to interconnect instantly with other users with unique features like “Geotagging” wherein a geotagged photo can be sent to friends who can then initiate navigation to the location by simply clicking on it. Equipped with Connected Services like Ciao, Flight Status, Currency convertor and Weather Updates – the A10 is a unique smartphone offering from Garmin-Asus that users will definitely want to carry with themselves at all time,” said John Chen, Business Head for Mobile Communication Business at ASUS (India).

Via : androidos

Garmin-Asus launches A10 Smartphone

Garmin-Asus has launched the Garmin-Asus A10 in the Indian market. The A10 is powered by the Android 2.1 OS, using a 3.2-inch capacitive screen capable of multi-touch. Other features are pretty much standard smartphone fare with 5 megapixel auto-focus camera, 4GB storage in addition to 512MB of RAM and 512MB of ROM for storing often accessed files. A 1500mAh battery is claimed to deliver a long battery life.

It features Garmin's proprietary car and pedestrian navigation technology, making it easy to navigate the city and utilize the built-in Point of Interest (POI) database to scope out movie show times, public transport information, shops and establishments, in addition to real-time information on weather, gas prices, and parking lot availability among other things. These services are integrated into A10's customised "click and go" function.

More @ techtree

TerreStar makes it official, files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy

Teetering no longer. According to Reuters, satellite phone maker TerreStar has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy to protect itself from liabilities in the range of $1.6 billion. As expected, a restructuring is in order, with Blackstone Group LP providing financial advice for such a move. One of TerreStars' creditors, EchoStar, is offering $75 million in financing to help keep the company operate while it goes through the bankruptcy. Shame that it's the icing on the cake for its Genus, having just launched on AT&T not one month ago. Them's the breaks.

Via : engadget, Reuters

Acer Aspire One Happy – officially launched

Acer officially announced the 10.1-inch laptop Acer Aspire One Happy, which is characterized by its pastel colors, available in blue, green, pink and purple. In early September rumors appeared of a new netbook model, very colorful and joyful from Acer: Aspire One Happy. Now Aspire One Happy was officially launched and is distinguished by special casing in pastel shades of blue, purple, green or pink.

Beyond the performance of a standard mini laptop, Acer Aspire One Happy wants to offer a certain good feeling, happiness and relaxation, through the great color casing. Thus, purple (Lavender Purple) inspired elegance, sophistication and originality, while the pink (Pink Candy) is playful and adds femininity. Green (Lime Green) explodes with energy and vitality, while blue (Blue Hawaii) makes you think about the ocean and the freedom of heaven. In short, the new Aspire One Happy is an accessory for all fashion-conscious people.

Technical specifications and other details for this Acer mini include:

- Operating system (dual-boot) – Android 2.1, social activities and fast Internet connection, and Windows 7;
- Processor – Intel Atom N450 processor at 1.66 GHz or dual core 1.5 GHz Intel Atom N550;
- RAM memory – 1 GB RAM Atom N450 CPU, 2 GB RAM Atom N550 CPU;
- Video card – Intel GMA 3150;
- Storage space – up to 250 GB HDD;
- Connection – Wi-Fi, Fast Ethernet, optional – 3G, Bluetooth;
- 10.1-inch WSVGA display, 16:9 aspect ratio, LED-backlit ,resolution 1024 x 600 pixels;
- Only 24 mm thick (sizes – 258.5 (W) x 185 (D) x 24 (H) mm);
- Weighing just 1.25 kg (6 cell battery models);
- I / O – 3 x USB 2.0, VGA, headphone jack, microphone jack, RJ-45;
- Keyboard with larger keys for comfortable typing, multi-gesture touchpad space;
- Acer Crystal Eye webcam, microphone;
- Multi-in-one card reader;
- 6-cell battery for a range of up to 8 hours or 3 ceule battery for a range of up to 4 hours;
- Price – 249 pounds in the UK, announced at 349 euros in Italy and in rhe rest of Europe, where it will be available in November.

Via : newsinabox

Sprint invites Dell Inspiron Mini 1012 and Inspiron 11z into the dual-mode 3G / WiMAX league

It's been a good long while since a Dell Mini 10 with WiMAX crossed the FCC, but it's finally headed to Sprint next month, and its big brother the 11.6-inch Dell Inspiron 11z is along for the ride as well. Both sport Intel Centrino Advanced-N + WiMAX 6250 chips to serve up Sprint 4G and 802.11n WiFi, plus EV-DO Rev. A for 3G speeds on an unspecified secondary card of some sort. The Mini 10's mostly your standard 10-inch Atom N450 netbook, but we're happy to say this one comes with a six-cell battery, and the Inspiron 11z got a modern 1.2GHz Core i3-330UM processor under the hood, which should contribute favorably to both longevity and speed. The Mini 10 is free on two-year contract, while the 11z will set you back $150; find both at Sprint stores starting November 14th. PR after the break.

Via : engadget

Acer Aspire One D255 gets in on the dual core action

The dual core Intel Atom N550 netbooks are coming thick and fast now, and the latest model to be announced is the Acer Aspire One D225.

Now, if you don't want to dance the dual-core dance, you can instead opt for the old N450 - but you're a Pocket-lint reader and therefore a forward thinker, so there's no chance of that.

The N550 is a 10.1-inch netbook with a 1024 x 600 display. As well as the dual-core chip, you've also got DDR3 RAM and an Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 3150, that supports Microsoft DirectX 9.

You'll get 250GB of HDD space to store all of your media, and transferring to and from it shouldn't be a problem with Bluetooth 3.0 as an option.

Connectivity is taken care of by Wi-Fi and 3G (again, optional) and you'll also find a webcam and fast Ethernet on board too.

You'll get up to 8 hours of battery life and the Aspire One D255 comes with the Acer MiniGo adapter that has a wall mount design and is a third lighter than typical adapters; saving a third on charging time.

Available from November in four colours: black, red, brown, or white; prices start from £229, although you're looking at a minimum of £279 for the N550 model.

Via : pocket-lint

Acer Aspire One D255

If you're looking to buy a netbook, chances are good that price is your number-one purchasing factor. If so, you'll perk up at the latest revision of Acer's Aspire One netbook, the D255, which starts at a rock-bottom $249 with a three-cell battery. (We tested an upgraded version with a six-cell battery, at $349.) With the D255, Acer rolls out an eye-pleasing, light netbook for those unconcerned with squeezing out the last drop of performance.

It's an enticing product for anyone watching their pennies, while delivering a—very—slight performance edge among low-end netbooks. We thought that the addition of a dual-core processor would give it enough oomph to distinguish it from its single-core competition in the bargain basement, but the difference wasn't all that great in our tests.

Let's start with the positives. At 2.8 pounds and with a 10.1-inch screen, this netbook is a very compact package you won't mind carrying around. We loved being able to throw it in a bag, barely feeling the weight on our shoulder. It comes in four colors: black, silver, red, and blue. We tested the blue, which is attractive but not flashy, a middle-ground color for either work or play.

Via : computershopper

Verizon to sell Galaxy Tab starting November 11th for $599.99

Well, we finally have a price on this thing! America's largest carrier has announced plans to sell Samsung's Galaxy Tab for... $599.99. The 3G, Android 2.2-based unit (which will be loaded with V CAST apps, of course) will hit retail on November 11th, and since it's being sold at full price, a data plan (which starts at $20 per month for 1GB) is completely optional. It looks like customers will have some fairly strong choices on Big Red, considering that the impossible-to-ignore iPad is being made available in Verizon's stores as well. Tough decisions are ahead for potential tablet buyers -- but we're sure you'll do what's right. Check out the full press release below, and good luck!

Via : engadget

Motorola prepping 4G USB modem for LTE networks, doesn't say which ones

Motorola is definitely tossing its hat in the LTE mobile broadband ring -- it just announced this plug-and-play USB-lte 7110 modem at the 4G World conference in Illinois. It's rated for FDD-LTE Category 3, meaning the little exclamation-point-shaped dongle is theoretically capable of 100Mbps download and 50Mbps upload speeds, and it's got a pair of omni-directional MIMO antennas to help you pull down as much of that juicy, low-latency data as Motorola's unnamed partners intend to squeeze. Just don't be fooled by the company's claims that this is the "first commercial 4G LTE device" -- we're pretty sure Samsung and LG have Moto beat. PR after the break.

Via : engadget