Facebook’s iPhone Messenger to get video chat, enlarged variant for iPad?

Posted on May 2, 2012 by Joe Pollicino.
Categories: Uncategorized.

Been itching for Facebook's iPhone-dedicated Messenger app to make its way over to the iPad? ? Maybe for the iPhone variant to finally reap the benefits of Skype video chat integration as well? Well, according to 9to5Mac, Camp Zuckerberg is testing both in-house, with the latter planned to hit iPhones this summer. According to the site, one of its trustworthy tipsters was able to grant it access to beta versions of the new apps, and it has the pictures to prove it. Unsurprisingly, the Messenger app for iPad is described as simply a sized-up port of the iPhone version, but surely the bump would be appreciated by many if it ever gets officially released. Perhaps more interesting, though, is having Skype video chat baked into the iPhone version -- tapping an arrow next to a contact initiates your video session, and 9to5Mac reports that it's "smooth most of the time." Of course, it's always worth taking such leaks with a grain of salt, but hit up the source link below if you'd like to find more information and screenshots of the apps in question.

Facebook's iPhone Messenger to get video chat, enlarged variant for iPad? originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 02 May 2012 15:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sparrow mail app for iOS hits version 1.1, Push support to follow ‘with or without Apple’

Posted on April 4, 2012 by Joe Pollicino.
Categories: Uncategorized.

Sparrow mail app for iOS hits version 1.1, Push support to follow 'with or without Apple'

Good news today for Sparrow iOS users. As expected, the company has updated its splendid lil' email app to version 1.1 and loaded it with a few hotly anticipated features. Among some bug fixes, you can now make use of a built-in browser, "Send and Archive" messages, filter specific folders and labels, clear your spam and trash bins and even set which accounts you'd like to show or hide dock badges for. While the app is still sorely lacking Push support, Sparrow believes that Apple may change the privacy guidelines for its Push API, which the company plans to include in version 1.2. That said, it's partnered with folks outside of Cupertino's walled-garden, so that it can bring the feature to fruition "with or without Apple." Furthermore, that future version's other features have been detailed -- it'll include landscape support, vertical swiping through messages and localization for an additional nine countries. In related news, version 1.6 of Sparrow for Mac OS X is being readied for release, and it'll pack support for POP email accounts. You can glide on down to the source link for further details.

Sparrow mail app for iOS hits version 1.1, Push support to follow 'with or without Apple' originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 04 Apr 2012 16:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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XBMC Eden officially steps out of beta, available for download now

Posted on March 24, 2012 by Joe Pollicino.
Categories: Uncategorized.

Been snacking on popcorn with the beta build of XBMC 11.0 Eden since it got released last December? If, you'll be pleased know that the full-on release version is now officially available for download. In case you don't recall, this latest build of the media center house many new features, not limited to Addon Rollbacks (in case you hate their new builds), a plethora of speed-improvements, official "in- sync support" for iOS devices, AirPlay functionality and UI tweaks. There's also good news for Ubuntu users, as XBMCUbuntu Final has been officially announced as the successor to XBMC Live. Excuse the pun, but if you're ready to taste the fruit now that it's ripe, you'll find the full details for both and the download link for Eden at the source link below.

XBMC Eden officially steps out of beta, available for download now originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 24 Mar 2012 20:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Roland’s Wireless Connect lets your iPhone and electronic instruments play nice sans cords

Posted on March 22, 2012 by Joe Pollicino.
Categories: Uncategorized.

As if there weren't already enough devices out there for connecting musical instruments to iDevices, Roland's unveiled its latest entrant to the fray over at this year's Musikmesse. Combining a duo of iOS apps and a Netgear-sourced USB dongle, the company's created what's dubbed as the Wireless Connect system. Essentially, by plugging the USB stick into a select number of the company's electronic instruments, you'll be able to jam out using your iDevice as a cord-free aid. With its updated app version of V-Drums Friend Jam, drummers can work on their chops and share the results over the web (alternatively, the current computer variant requires a wired connection). Additionally, the Air Recorder app allows you to hook up with its Synths and V-Accordions to record your playing, jam along with songs from your iPhone or both at the same time. Notably, you likely won't get much use out of Wireless Connect at your next gig, though, as it requires a LAN connection with access to the internet for full functionality. While there's not word on a pricing just yet, Roland plans to have the system on store shelves by the end of spring. Interested musicians can glance at the press release and instrument compatibility details planted just past the break.

Continue reading Roland's Wireless Connect lets your iPhone and electronic instruments play nice sans cords

Roland's Wireless Connect lets your iPhone and electronic instruments play nice sans cords originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 22 Mar 2012 11:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Samsung’s Galaxy S and iPhone-compatible speaker docks (eyes-on)

Posted on March 6, 2012 by Joe Pollicino.
Categories: Uncategorized.

Samsung and Apple may be at each others throats in the courtroom, but the two will be getting along just fine with Sammy's new speaker docks. Sprinkled in with the availability details of its 2012 Smart TV lineup, the company's prepped a quartet of stereo speaker-systems affixed with dual-docks for its Galaxy line of devices and, surprise, Apple's iThings (Mini-USB plug and a 30-pin connector). You'll have a choice between two designs (each available in two sizes), starting with the two-channel, bell bottom macaroni-style above (10-watt DA-E550). The remaining models feature a more traditional box-like shape, 2.1-channels of sound, and Bluetooth-connectivity -- this includes the DA-E650 with 40 watts of output and a 20-watt subwoofer, and the DA-E670 with 100 watts of output and a 60-watt sub. Mum's the word on pricing, but you'll be able to pick these mini-rigs in April. For now, check out some close-up shots in the gallery below and the PR past the break for all of the sound-related goodies Samsung unveiled today.

Gallery: Samsung speaker docks

Edgar Alvarez and Michael Gorman contributed to this post.

Continue reading Samsung's Galaxy S and iPhone-compatible speaker docks (eyes-on)

Samsung's Galaxy S and iPhone-compatible speaker docks (eyes-on) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 06 Mar 2012 20:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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C Spire drops iPhone 4S price to $150, asks you for two years of commitment

Posted on March 5, 2012 by Joe Pollicino.
Categories: Uncategorized.

If you've wanted to cozy up to Siri, only holding back in your search for a price break on Apple's current iPhone 4S, then your latest opportunity has arrived. C Spire Wireless is now offering the device at the starting price of $150 for the 16GB variant in return for signing a two-year commitment. Naturally, $250 snags you 32GB of storage, while the 64GB variant will run you $350. All in all, these iDevices at about $50 dollars less than you'd normally find 'em for on carrier subsidies -- unless you happen to reside in Puerto Rico, that is. Best of all, it appears that this isn't merely a limited-time offer. Don't take our word for it, hit up the source link below for all the details.

C Spire drops iPhone 4S price to $150, asks you for two years of commitment originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 05 Mar 2012 06:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Koss revamps Porta Pro headphones with iPhone remote, intros ‘interlocking’ earbuds

Posted on January 30, 2012 by Joe Pollicino.
Categories: Uncategorized.

We're baffled that we missed this gem of news during the bustle of CES, but it turns out that Koss has recently announced a new version of its iconic Porta Pro headphones. The Porta Pro KTC (Koss Touch Control), as it's dubbed, is essentially the same piece of retro kit that's been delighting ears and keeping wallets chubby for nearly three decades. The KTC bit in its name refers to the inclusion of an iDevice-certified inline remote / mic, aimed at keeping on-the-go users in sync with their playlists and phone calls. If you prefer earbuds, but hate tangled cords, then the company's interlocking intra-aurals might be to your liking. This lineup features in-ears which snap into each other for easier storage. You'll have a choice between the IL-100 and 200, the latter of which distinguishes itself with the mere addition of an inline remote for iPhones. While there's no word on pricing just yet for any of the aforementioned units, Koss aims to begin ship the new audio-wares once spring is in full bloom. For now, you'll find the press releases and a render of the 'buds after the break.

Continue reading Koss revamps Porta Pro headphones with iPhone remote, intros 'interlocking' earbuds

Koss revamps Porta Pro headphones with iPhone remote, intros 'interlocking' earbuds originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 30 Jan 2012 06:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Klipsch Mode M40 noise-cancelling headphones review

Posted on January 24, 2012 by Joe Pollicino.
Categories: Uncategorized.

Around these parts, we've generally had favorable opinions of Klipsch's audio products. Whether it's been something as small as its S4 line of smartphone oriented in-ears or grand speaker systems like its AirPlay-enabled G-17 Air, we've usually ended up awarding the brand our highest praise. If you'll recall, it was little over a year ago that Klipsch introduced its $150 Image One on-ear headphones -- the company's first set ever that weren't of the intra-aural variety, and a favorite of our own James Trew.

Fast forward to the present, and the company's unleashed its second proper over-the-head headphone, the Klipsch Mode M40 with active noise-cancellation. In recent years, headphones have exploded in popularity -- many companies have been furiously trying to blend good sound with fashion-forward looks. It's safe to say that's Klipsch's end game here, and is asking that you part ways with 350 bones to get in on the action.

Put simply, these aren't a follow-up to the Image Ones, but rather, a luxury pair that takes cues from the company's reference series headphones. Of course, as we've come to expect from Klipsch, the M40s do have some notable tricks up their yokes aside from their debatably fashionable looks -- the company promises they'll cancel noise for a massively long 45 hours on a single AAA battery, and both earcups feature an interesting dual-driver array with a 15mm tweeter and a 40mm woofer. So, have the M40s made us smitten with Klipsch all over again? Or not? Maybe something a bit more complicated? Click on past the break to find out!

Gallery: Klipsch Mode M40 noise-cancelling headphones review

Continue reading Klipsch Mode M40 noise-cancelling headphones review

Klipsch Mode M40 noise-cancelling headphones review originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 24 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Visualized CES Edition: Behringer’s iNuke Boom speaker dock, a 10,000-watt altar for your iPod

Posted on January 11, 2012 by Joe Pollicino.
Categories: Uncategorized.

No word on whether it goes to eleven.

Edgar Alvarez contributed to this report.

Visualized CES Edition: Behringer's iNuke Boom speaker dock, a 10,000-watt altar for your iPod originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 11 Jan 2012 21:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Line 6 throws more MIDI love at iDevices, intros Mobile Keys keyboard controllers

Posted on January 10, 2012 by Joe Pollicino.
Categories: Uncategorized.

Line 6 hasn't been a stranger to uniting musician's iDevices and MIDI controllers with its MIDI-Mobilizers, but now it's unleashing a duo of keyboard-style controllers of its own here at CES. Its Mobile Keys can connect straight to your iPhone's 30-pin port, and even over USB if you feel like recording some loops straight from your computer. The controller features velocity sensitive keys, two 1/4-inch jacks for sustain pedals, and it'll interface with any apps that support CoreMIDI. Thankfully, the controllers are bus-powered, so you won't need batteries -- we'd imagine, however, that the convenience might be at the expense of your iDevice's normal run-time. If you're recording bug is piqued, you'll be able to pick it up with either 25 or 49 keys in the "early 2012, respectively priced at $150 and $200. Full details in the press release after the break.

Continue reading Line 6 throws more MIDI love at iDevices, intros Mobile Keys keyboard controllers

Line 6 throws more MIDI love at iDevices, intros Mobile Keys keyboard controllers originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 10 Jan 2012 03:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Innergie Magic cables wed USB and 30-pin connctions, let you break ‘em up on the fly

Posted on December 8, 2011 by Joe Pollicino.
Categories: Uncategorized.

Apple's 30-pin connection got you feeling down in a world filled with USB? Wish your iDevice cable worked with more of your gizmos? Fret not, as Innergie recently introduced its effort to solve this dilemma with its Magic Cables. The idea is simple, one end is fitted with a standard connector and the opposite side terminates into a mini-USB plug that can be fitted with different tips. Twenty bucks will snag you the Duo variant with a 30-pin adapter and for $5 more you can pick up the Trio if you also need a micro-USB tip. All told, we're not sure that keeping track of minuscule adapters will prove much better than having a few cables, but if you're ready to consolidate your cords it may be worth a short. Full press release just past the break.

Continue reading Innergie Magic cables wed USB and 30-pin connctions, let you break 'em up on the fly

Innergie Magic cables wed USB and 30-pin connctions, let you break 'em up on the fly originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 08 Dec 2011 08:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Klipsch Gallery G-17 Air soundbar review

Posted on November 21, 2011 by Joe Pollicino.
Categories: Uncategorized.

If you'll recall, it was back at CES when we realized that AirPlay devices would be "set to explode" by this year's end -- and it's certainly proving true as a storm of new speakers have hit the market over the last few months. Of all the speakers we'd spotted on the show floor, however, a select bunch AirPlay-enabled speakerbar prototypes from Klipsch's newly unveiled Gallery lineup of high-performance home audio wares really perked our ears -- and widened our pupils. It wouldn't be until July that the smallest version, known then as the $400 Gallery Studio, would be officially unveiled as the Gallery G-17 Air, priced at a spendier $530.

Now, nearly four months later the G-17 is finally hitting retail (albeit with a $20 price increase), aimed just a notch below $600 options like B&W's Zeppelin Air, but well above others including iHome's $300 iW1. We've been testing a model G-17 Air for a few days now, so join us past break to find out whether its beauty is deeper than its insanely glossy black shell.

Gallery: Klipsch Gallery G-17 Air soundbar review

Continue reading Klipsch Gallery G-17 Air soundbar review

Klipsch Gallery G-17 Air soundbar review originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 21 Nov 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Apple iPhone 4S now available for $99… in Puerto Rico

Posted on November 11, 2011 by Joe Pollicino.
Categories: Uncategorized.

Sure, you can now purchase an unlocked iPhone 4S within the US officially, but folks in the outlying territory of Puerto Rico have some tempting options if they'll go the long-term contractual route. The region's division of carrier, Claro, is now selling the Siri-packed device starting at the low, low price of $99 for the 16GB model on-contract -- those scared of commitment can also snag it unlocked, albeit for a slightly pricey $670 (which as 9to5Mac points out, is up $20 from Apple). The carrier also lists the 32 and 64GB variants as "expected soon," marked to sell at $199 / $299 with a two-year commitment and $770 / $870 unlocked. Notably, you'll have a choice of four monthly plans featuring unlimited talk and text ranging from about 65 to 85 bucks, with data allotments starting at 250MB and peaking at "unlimited." Apparently, Claro isn't offering the 4S for purchase online, but it does list a number of retail locations you can grab one from if you're interested. You'll find more details at the source link below.

Apple iPhone 4S now available for $99... in Puerto Rico originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 11 Nov 2011 23:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Yamaha’s ruggedized PDX-11 iPod speaker dock lets you blast beats beyond your block for $100

Posted on November 1, 2011 by Joe Pollicino.
Categories: Uncategorized.

If its past offerings have been any indicator, Yamaha's no stranger to pumping out attractive speaker docks for iDevices. Not surprisingly, the company's managed to pour that design sense into its latest ruggedized portable system, the PDX-11. This octagonal unit features a 4-inch woofer and a 3/8-inch tweeter that can be powered by six AA-batteries, allowing for up to eight hours of on-the-go sound. Up top, you'll find a 30-pin connection base for your iPhone or iPod, and there's also a 3.5mm jack around back to play nice with other PMPs. Notably, the speaker's metal carry handle and grill should keep it ready for a mild amount of city-slicking abuse -- and in a choice of blue, white, green or black, we'd imagine it'll look extra fresh doing so. To sweeten the deal further, a remote is included for extra control options. If you're ready to take your tunes to the outdoors, the PDX-11 is available now for a block rockin' hundred bucks. You'll find full details at the source link below.

Continue reading Yamaha's ruggedized PDX-11 iPod speaker dock lets you blast beats beyond your block for $100

Yamaha's ruggedized PDX-11 iPod speaker dock lets you blast beats beyond your block for $100 originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 01 Nov 2011 22:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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iHome iW1 AirPlay wireless audio system finally available now, again, sort of

Posted on October 27, 2011 by Joe Pollicino.
Categories: Uncategorized.

Remember back to September 26th when iHome's iW1 AirPlay speaker was supposed to be available? Curiously, the company's website continually listed the $300 system as "coming soon" (at least the times we checked), leaving iOS and iTunes users yearning for this cable-free audio ware in the proverbial dust. Now, a full month later, iHome has again announced the release of this flagship wireless speaker, even though it's still out of stock itself. According to the company, a quick trip to an Apple Store, Best Buy or Crutchfield should let you snag one, although, the latter's site won't have any until November 3rd. Here's to hunting -- and waiting for the smaller iW2 and iW3 units to get proper release dates. Full details in the press release after the break.

Continue reading iHome iW1 AirPlay wireless audio system finally available now, again, sort of

iHome iW1 AirPlay wireless audio system finally available now, again, sort of originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 27 Oct 2011 22:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Siri, when will you run your first television ad?

Posted on October 20, 2011 by Joe Pollicino.
Categories: Uncategorized.

...after the break.

[Thanks everyone who sent this in]

Continue reading Siri, when will you run your first television ad?

Siri, when will you run your first television ad? originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 20 Oct 2011 22:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Audyssey’s Lower East Side Audio Dock Air: square to be cool

Posted on October 19, 2011 by Joe Pollicino.
Categories: Uncategorized.

Not enamored by any upcoming AirPlay -enabled HiFi systems? Audyssey's curiously square Lower East Side Audio Dock Air could be worth a shot. This is the second wireless speaker from the company, which last year used its audio know -how for the South of Market Bluetooth Dock. The LESADA's light on features, but utilizes "Smart Speaker technology" to offer what Audyssey claims is best-in-class audio quality. The unit itself is loaded with two 1-inch tweeters, a duo of 3-inch midrange drivers and two thumping 4-inch passive bass radiators. Up top there's a single volume wheel, while on the front and back you'll find a headphone jack and a 3.5mm input (if you'd prefer the vintage experience of plugging in). The Lower East Side Audio Dock Air -- in all its cubey goodness -- is slated to hit shelves in November for about $400. Full PR past the break.

Continue reading Audyssey's Lower East Side Audio Dock Air: square to be cool

Audyssey's Lower East Side Audio Dock Air: square to be cool originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 Oct 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Chipworks throws an iPhone 4S under its infrared microscope, finds Sony-sourced image sensor

Posted on October 16, 2011 by Joe Pollicino.
Categories: Uncategorized.

Look closely. Can you spot it? That gray abyss is actually an infrared image by Chipworks revealing an iPhone 4S' Sony-branded, 8 megapixel CMOS sensor. Looks like Howard Stringer wasn't bluffing to Walt Mossberg back in April, after all. At the time, it was reported that Apple's usual sensor supplier, OmniVision, was experiencing production delays, prompting speculation that Sony would eventually usurp the position. While the iPhone 4S that Chipworks looked into seems to confirm this, it's pointed out that Apple does have a habit of "dual sourcing" components (with its contacts saying this should be no different), so Sony may not be the sole supplier this time around. What ever the case, there's no denying that the iPhone 4S takes some stellar shots. You'll find more information -- including X-rays of the 4S -- at the source link below.

Continue reading Chipworks throws an iPhone 4S under its infrared microscope, finds Sony-sourced image sensor

Chipworks throws an iPhone 4S under its infrared microscope, finds Sony-sourced image sensor originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 16 Oct 2011 17:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Colorware spills its inks on your iPhone 4S, charges dearly for it

Posted on by Joe Pollicino.
Categories: Uncategorized.

You didn't think the latest iPhone would be saved from Colorware's paint-dipped hands, did you?
Lo and behold, the company's swatches are currently ready for application on the 4S. Similar to its iPhone 4 treatments, you'll be able to spice up your device -- and its earbuds -- with a mixture of glossy, metallic and soft-touch coatings (excluding mainly the front face, which remains stock black or white). Colorware'll gladly sell you a fresh 16 or 64GB model for a whopping $1,500 or $1,700, respectively, or you can mail yours in to get a Benetton-esque makeover for just $250.

Colorware spills its inks on your iPhone 4S, charges dearly for it originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 16 Oct 2011 05:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Box rides on iCloud’s coattails, offers 50GB of free cloud storage to iOS users

Posted on October 13, 2011 by Joe Pollicino.
Categories: Uncategorized.

No, your eyes don't deceive you -- Box is offering 50GBs of free storage inside its cloud for iOS users -- just like it did for TouchPad owners back in June. Anyone who downloads the latest version of Box's app for iPad and iPhone will receive their massive lot for data storage after registering a personal account (existing accounts can join in on the fun as well). To make better use of that extra space, Box will also be bumping upload capacity from 25MB to 100MB per file and baking in AirPlay support. Look, Box is obviously skitching on iCloud's tail, but it sure seems like a crazy good deal considering that space is yours "forever." The promotion will last for 50 days, officially starting at 12AM on October 14th -- although, we're already seeing the update on our end. Full details in the source link.

Box rides on iCloud's coattails, offers 50GB of free cloud storage to iOS users originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 13 Oct 2011 22:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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