I'm all Shreked out. I admit it.
I haven't seen the new movie nor do I want to (and thankfully neither do the kids). I can tell you that the game's plot mirrors the movies a little, so I don't want to spoil it for those of you who plan to visit your favorite Ogre at the theater.
In the game, which is well done, you can play as Fiona, Donkey, Puss In Boots and the ol' green guy himself.
And once you pick your character, each with his or her special abilities, you jump into the game.
Now married, Shrek wants to go back to the days when he lived by the swamp and was feared. He signs a deal with Rumpelstiltskin to give him one day as a dreaded monster, only he's tricked. He can't come back until he earns a "true love's kiss" and he's sent to a new reality where he's never met his wife, Fiona.
Your job now is to hook up with all your old friends and woo Fiona. You must also stomp Rumpelstiltskin from taking over the kingdom in the real world.
There are 11 levels of game play and collect coins to advance your way to a final battle
What's cool is four player mode. You and your friends can team up against your enemies and each use your skill: Shrek can move heavy stuff, Puss N Boots can climb up anything like Spider Man; Fiona sets stuff on fire and Donkey has a super kick.
Best of all the game is easy to pick up and play, and rather fun.
Tuesday, June 08, 2010
"Storybook Workshop" a great "game" for kids
Konami's "Storybook Workshop" videogame for the Wii is the kind of videogame we could use more of.
It's designed for young kids, though it does have some mild cartoon violence, and is basically a read-along. There are 16 classic fairy tales here, like "Little Red Riding Hood" and "The Ugly Duckling" plus four sing-along songs.
Players use the included USB microphone to read along with, record and play back your reading of the stories. A voice box option lets you alter your voice a little to match the characters. You use the mic to record the stories (or you can listen to the computer). You can get about 40 minutes of storage.
The game helps reinforce reading skills and can help young ones with pronouncing their words.
In addition to the read-along there is some gameplay here, too, with some mini-games. The only bad thing here is getting started. A host character (a walking, talking television) leads players through a tree house with four rooms. In each rooms, are elements to begin the storytelling. If parents are not around, young kids could get frustrated trying to know which room (Grape) has the different characters, and which one (Acorn) has the tutorials and report cards.
Still, it's a nice deviation from most kids games and can actually help enforce some things kids are learning in school.
It's designed for young kids, though it does have some mild cartoon violence, and is basically a read-along. There are 16 classic fairy tales here, like "Little Red Riding Hood" and "The Ugly Duckling" plus four sing-along songs.
Players use the included USB microphone to read along with, record and play back your reading of the stories. A voice box option lets you alter your voice a little to match the characters. You use the mic to record the stories (or you can listen to the computer). You can get about 40 minutes of storage.
The game helps reinforce reading skills and can help young ones with pronouncing their words.
In addition to the read-along there is some gameplay here, too, with some mini-games. The only bad thing here is getting started. A host character (a walking, talking television) leads players through a tree house with four rooms. In each rooms, are elements to begin the storytelling. If parents are not around, young kids could get frustrated trying to know which room (Grape) has the different characters, and which one (Acorn) has the tutorials and report cards.
Still, it's a nice deviation from most kids games and can actually help enforce some things kids are learning in school.
Monday, June 07, 2010
Steve Jobs announces new iPhone; on sale June 24
Jobs touted the big success of the iPad. He said Apple sells one iPad every three seconds and has sold more than two million in ten countries. By July, Jobs said, iPad will be in 19 countries.
At 1:31 p.m., half an hour into the speech, Jobs said the new iPhone ($199 for 16 GB or $299 for 32 GB with two-year contract from AT&T beginning June 24) would be the biggest jump in technology since the original phone came out. The new model, he said, would come in black or white and have 100 new features (although there was a technical glitch trying to get the New York Times to load).
One of the new features is video conferencing.
The new iPhone shown was glass on the front and back with stainless steel running up the sides. It is 24 percent thinner than the current version. It has a front-facing camera and another camera with LED flash on the back. It will allow users to multi-task, or run more than one application at once. Jobs promises that multi-tasking won't run down the battery as it does on some other phones with the feature.
It is the same size as the current iPhone, 3.5 inches long, but has 960 by 640 resolution, near Hi-Def, and a contrast ratio four times better than the current model. Jobs said the new iPhone has 78 percent of the pixels of the iPad, "right in the palm of your head."
Jobs said a new technology, which he called "retina density" dramatically improves the screen quality, delivering up to four times as many pixels in the same space as the current iPhone. Jobs said the display delivers about double pixels per inch, or PPI, of the current phone (326 compared to 163).
"In person," Jobs said, "it is one of the most beautiful designs you've ever seen. Beyond a doubt one of the most beautiful and precise things we've ever made."
The new iPhone has a bigger battery that will allow 40 percent more talk time. Users will get seven hours of talk, six hours of 3G web browsing, 10 hours of WiFi browsing, 10 hours of video watching, 40 hours of listening to music and 300 hours of standby.
Other new items
-- AT&T customers will get up to six months of early eligibility for the phone. The current iPhone 3GS will drop to $99. Customers can begin pre-ordering June 15.
-- The new iPhone supports wireless N for faster WiFi. And it has a gyroscope built in, which will help with orientation on the device, especially while using gaming apps.
-- Videoconferencing can be done between any two new iPhones using WiFi networks. Apple is calling it "FaceTime" Jobs said "we need to work with cellular providers" (plural) and it would be WiFi only for 2010. You can videoconference with front or rear facing cameras and can switch on the fly to show your caller what you are looking at.
-- Jobs said the iPhone's camera is five megapixels with a backside illuminated sensor to help with taking photos in low light. It has 5x digital zoom with tap to focus and an LED flash. The camera also records HD video at 720p and the iPhone will edit the video on the device using Apple's popular iMovie technology. iMovie will be a $4.99 app.
The LED flash can stay on during video recording and there's a one touch share button. You can export video in 360p, 520p and 720p
-- The new operating system, so far known as iPhone OS4 will be called iOS4. It has the aforementioned multi-tasking, folders, much deeper enterprise integration for corporate email. Google is the default search engine, but Bing is available as well as Yahoo.
-- iBooks is coming to iPhone with iOS4. You can download a book and share it among iPod Touch, iPad and iPhone. iBooks will automatically and wirelessly sync your place, bookmarks, and all notes. There will be no charge.
-- Mail on iPhone will come in one unified screen, allowing you to view multiple email accounts in one view.
-- iBooks on iPad will allow users to open and read pdf files inside the application. Users will also be able to make notes inside the book app. The notes will look like Post-Its. A new bookmark feature is also coming.
-- The popular iPad Netflix app is coming to iPhone, allowing users who subscribe to the video rental service to access movies on the fly. Expect the app this summer. Users will be able to start a film on the home computer, Xbox 360, iPad or iPhone and pick it up on another device. The iPhone app will have full functionality, including "search" and "recommendations." It wasn't made clear if the iPhone version would only work via WiFi or also over 3G.
-- iOS4 free upgrades will be available for iPod Touch, 3GS iPhone and 3G iPhone June 21, though the 3G and some Touches will not support all the new features.
Is Sprint's Evo 4G Smart Phone the new king (and a true iPhone killer?)
It's 11 a.m. as I write this on Monday, June 7, we're about two hours away from a very important keynote from Apple's Steve Jobs, where he's expected to unveil a new iPhone that's thinner, faster and better in every way.
Last year's upgrade from iPhone 3G to 3GS brought users more speed and functionality, but in the past 12 months, smartphones using the Android operating system have slowly eaten away at Apple's advantages.
While the iPhone is still the easiest to use and most efficient smart phone out there, Sprint's new HTC Evo 4G trumps it, badly, in features. That's why this new iPhone really needs to do some amazing stuff. With Android phones at all the major cellular providers and iPhone stuck at AT&T -- which some users are becoming particularly frustrated with -- Apple needs to try to change the game.
Sprint smartly launched the 4G Evo touchscreen phone Friday, three days ahead of Jobs' announcement, and got tons of new customers to sign up as well as current ones to reup with two-year subscriptions. There are still rumors floating around that Jobs may move iPhone to more networks (which is badly needed) but well before Jobs takes the stage in San Francisco, Sprint is already celebrating a huge victory.
In a press release Monday, the company said Friday sales of the Evo 4G were the best ever Sprint has ever had for a single phone. In one day, the Evo 4G did triple the business that the Samsung Instinct and the heavily hyped Palm Pre did in three days. Combined.
So many people packed 22,000 Sprint stores and retail partners across the country Friday that the company's computer systems locked up and customers had enormous wait times to get their phones activated.
I got a demo of the phone from Sprint Saturday and have been using it heavily for the past two days. At 4.3 inches, the phone is huge. It's wider and taller than iPhone and much easier to read. Dell's upcoming Streak Tablet is 5 inches, for example. But even though it's big, the slender Evo 4G slips easily in your pocket.
The crystal clear screen is beautiful and the phone is blazing fast. If you've used the iPad, this phone is similarly responsive. When you launch something, it loads quickly. Typing is easy. The keys are larger than on iPhone, for example, and you get a little vibration each time you touch a key. Users with larger hands will appreciate the extra room, and I liked the little shortcut ".com" key that typed in the tail end of website addresses for you.
This is the first phone to use 4G and Charlotte is one of the first cities to get Sprint's faster network. It's not strong everywhere I've been in the city, but when you get it, it's faster than any mobile cellular network I've tried. Make that a lot faster.
Pages load fast and the Evo's pretty color screen displays them beautifully.
And there's much more.
Pinch to zoom control, popular on iPhone, works instantly. An 8 megapixel camera on the back delivers incredibly detailed photos and you can also shoot video, with up to 720p high-definition resolution. A simple cable can connect your phone to your TV for HD playback.
You can also use the phone as a WiFi hotspot, providing that 4G speed for up to eight devices. Sprint will charge $30 a month for it, however.
The Android Marketplace isn't as seamless as the Apple App store, but it's got tons of products to shop through, and you can download music through Amazon.
And one of my favorite features of the phone is a little kickstand on the back that allows it to sit upright without being held. This is good for 4G videoconferencing with other Evos -- oh did I tell you there's a front facing camera, too? -- or watching videos on a plane or bus or train.
My only gripe is battery life. Use 4G and it drains faster than a Ford Expedition runs through gas. But even without 4G running or a lot of applications and the phone in screen saver mode, it still drains way too fast. I find I have to plug in two or three times daily during my tests. A firmware upgrade or a better battery (this one is removable) may solve that.
Sprint has an advantage on AT&T and Verizon in price. Unlimited users on those networks pay about between $115 and $130 per month. At Sprint, you pay $99. The company is charging $10 for 4G access, so even adding that, you could still save some coin.
Sprint's entry level price for the phone is $69.99 per month, which includes unlimited data, unlimited text and 450 anytime minutes. Users also get unlimited calling to any mobile phone at anytime. To add 4G service would raise the cost to $79.99
With Sprint's aggressive monthly service plans, and an already solid 3G network, at least locally, this Evo 4G is going to be a serious competitor to lure customers away from other providers. For me, it was the best non iPhone smart phone I've ever used, and depending on what Steve Jobs announces in a few hours, it might be the best smartphone on the planet period.
Wednesday, June 02, 2010
No Verizon iPhone next week?
A Verizon spokesman, John Johnson, tells Beet TV that the company has no plans to carry the iPhone in the near future, driving a stake in the hearts of many who were hoping for a Verizon iPhone to be announced at the WorldWide Developers Conference next week.
Click here to see the interview
Click here to see the interview
Report: Verizon is testing Apple iPads
Interesting news this, given the AT&T announcements about new data plans today.
Boy Genius cites sources in reporting that Verizon is testing the iPad this week.
Seems a lot of people are upset with AT&T adding a new 2GB cap on iPad 3G usage and with the company putting similar caps on iPhone.
Next week's big Apple announcement at the WorldWide Developers conference is sure going to be interesting.
Boy Genius cites sources in reporting that Verizon is testing the iPad this week.
Seems a lot of people are upset with AT&T adding a new 2GB cap on iPad 3G usage and with the company putting similar caps on iPhone.
Next week's big Apple announcement at the WorldWide Developers conference is sure going to be interesting.
AT&T changes data plans for iPhone, allows tethering
AT&T announced this morning that it would finally allow U.S. customers to tether their iPhones -- use the phones to give internet connections to other devices. Tethering will begin after Apple releases iPhone 4.
To add tethering will cost an additional $20 per month, however.
The wireless company will also change its data plan for iPhone users, currently $30 for unlimited use.
Beginning June 7, customers can choose a $15 per month data plan for 200 MB or pay $25 per month for a 2 GB plan. To use the tethering option, you will need one of the new plans.
Current smartphone customers don't have to switch, meaning you can stay with your current unlimited model, but current customers can make the change to the new rates without a contract extension.
Remember, you cannot tether under the old unlimited data plan.
Both new data plans include unlimited access at no additional charge to AT&T 20,000-plus Wi-Fi Hot Spots in the U.S. The company said it will help customers manage data usage by sending free text messages as you near usage limits as well as providing an app that will track usage.
AT&T said its new "DataPlus" plan, for 200 MB of data, is enough to send and receive 1,000 emails per month (with no attachments) plus 150 emails with attachments, plus view 400 web pages, post 50 photos on social media sites and watch 20 minutes of streaming video.
Switching to this plan would save current customers $15 per month. If you exceed 200 MB of data in a month, an additional 200 MB would be provided for an additional $15.
AT&T said 65 percent of its customers use less than 200 MB of data per month on average.
The "DataPro" plan provides up to 2GB of data, and would be the choice for most people who want to use the tethering option. AT&T said it would provide enough space to send and receive 10,000 emails with no attachments, plus 1,500 emails with attachments plus view 4,000 web pages, plus post 500 photos to social media sites and watch 200 minutes of streaming video.
If you still surpass this amount of data, customers would get an additional one gig of data for $10 per use in the cycle. Currently, AT&T says 98 percent of all smartphone customers use less than 2 GB of data per month.
Ulimately, these changes mean lower prices for the bulk of smart phone customers. Smartphone voice and data plans now start at $54.99 per month on AT&T and to add a line to a family plan is $24.99 per month or $15 less than previously.
Also, new iPad customers will have the $25 2 GB data plan replacing the $29.99 unlimited plan. This changes goes into effect June 7. So if you want unlimited data on iPad, you need to sign up before June 7.
To add tethering will cost an additional $20 per month, however.
The wireless company will also change its data plan for iPhone users, currently $30 for unlimited use.
Beginning June 7, customers can choose a $15 per month data plan for 200 MB or pay $25 per month for a 2 GB plan. To use the tethering option, you will need one of the new plans.
Current smartphone customers don't have to switch, meaning you can stay with your current unlimited model, but current customers can make the change to the new rates without a contract extension.
Remember, you cannot tether under the old unlimited data plan.
Both new data plans include unlimited access at no additional charge to AT&T 20,000-plus Wi-Fi Hot Spots in the U.S. The company said it will help customers manage data usage by sending free text messages as you near usage limits as well as providing an app that will track usage.
AT&T said its new "DataPlus" plan, for 200 MB of data, is enough to send and receive 1,000 emails per month (with no attachments) plus 150 emails with attachments, plus view 400 web pages, post 50 photos on social media sites and watch 20 minutes of streaming video.
Switching to this plan would save current customers $15 per month. If you exceed 200 MB of data in a month, an additional 200 MB would be provided for an additional $15.
AT&T said 65 percent of its customers use less than 200 MB of data per month on average.
The "DataPro" plan provides up to 2GB of data, and would be the choice for most people who want to use the tethering option. AT&T said it would provide enough space to send and receive 10,000 emails with no attachments, plus 1,500 emails with attachments plus view 4,000 web pages, plus post 500 photos to social media sites and watch 200 minutes of streaming video.
If you still surpass this amount of data, customers would get an additional one gig of data for $10 per use in the cycle. Currently, AT&T says 98 percent of all smartphone customers use less than 2 GB of data per month.
Ulimately, these changes mean lower prices for the bulk of smart phone customers. Smartphone voice and data plans now start at $54.99 per month on AT&T and to add a line to a family plan is $24.99 per month or $15 less than previously.
Also, new iPad customers will have the $25 2 GB data plan replacing the $29.99 unlimited plan. This changes goes into effect June 7. So if you want unlimited data on iPad, you need to sign up before June 7.
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
ESPN: Michael Jordan to be videogame spokesman
Getting the cover of sports videogame is a pretty big deal among athletes these days, and rumors have had LeBron James and Derrick Rose as the most likely cover boys for 2KSports' NBA 2K11 which is due next fall.
But ESPN is reporting that the company has signed Michael Jordan to be the coverboy and spokesperson for the new game.
The Bobcats owner is also expected to be digitized as a character in the game. Remember when Mike used to block that from happening?
Having Jordan on the game could bring the Bobcats some additional publicity.
In addition, ESPN reports that 2KSports is talking to some of Jordan's 90-era teammates and opponents about potentially digitizing them into the game as well, allowing gamers to play with current and past stars as well as relive some of the '90s rivalries like Bulls-Knicks.
2K is expecting to show off the game at the annual E3 convention in June.
But ESPN is reporting that the company has signed Michael Jordan to be the coverboy and spokesperson for the new game.
The Bobcats owner is also expected to be digitized as a character in the game. Remember when Mike used to block that from happening?
Having Jordan on the game could bring the Bobcats some additional publicity.
In addition, ESPN reports that 2KSports is talking to some of Jordan's 90-era teammates and opponents about potentially digitizing them into the game as well, allowing gamers to play with current and past stars as well as relive some of the '90s rivalries like Bulls-Knicks.
2K is expecting to show off the game at the annual E3 convention in June.
Wired Magazine releasing iPad version...and it looks cool
Wired magazine officially released its iPad version. The June issue is available for download for $4.99.
Wired editor in chief Chris Anderson writes that the digital version of the magazine will be available soon on nearly all other tablets.
"We have always made our stories accessible online at Wired.com," he writes, "but as successful as the site is, it is not a magazine. The tablet is our opportunity to make the Wired we always dreamed of. It has all the visual impact of paper, enhanced by interactive elements like video and animated infographics. We can offer you a history of Mars landings that lets you explore the red planet yourself. We can take you inside Trent Reznor’s recording studio and let you listen to snippets of his work in progress. And we can show you exactly how Pixar crafted each frame of its new movie, Toy Story 3."
Wired developers will use new digital publishing technology from Adobe to create the print and enhanced digi-vesions simultaneously using the same design tools.
At first glance, the magazine looks terrific in the video shown on the website. There are more pictures, videos, objects to enhance and explore. I would hope an annual subscription would appear at a cheaper price point, but it looks like Wired has nailed a first-gen product. I hope more magazines and newspapers follow. It would be neat to not have to walk out in the morning to get the newspaper, but to be able to see it in this type of version on a tablet device, and best of all, when your newspaper or magazine is done publishing, it could immediately be available on your iPad.
Imagine, guys, not having to look out the window waiting for the mailman to bring your Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue (and now the magazine would come with videos, too). And can you imagine how many new App store customers there would be when Oprah's "O" goes iPad digital?
Wired editor in chief Chris Anderson writes that the digital version of the magazine will be available soon on nearly all other tablets.
"We have always made our stories accessible online at Wired.com," he writes, "but as successful as the site is, it is not a magazine. The tablet is our opportunity to make the Wired we always dreamed of. It has all the visual impact of paper, enhanced by interactive elements like video and animated infographics. We can offer you a history of Mars landings that lets you explore the red planet yourself. We can take you inside Trent Reznor’s recording studio and let you listen to snippets of his work in progress. And we can show you exactly how Pixar crafted each frame of its new movie, Toy Story 3."
Wired developers will use new digital publishing technology from Adobe to create the print and enhanced digi-vesions simultaneously using the same design tools.
At first glance, the magazine looks terrific in the video shown on the website. There are more pictures, videos, objects to enhance and explore. I would hope an annual subscription would appear at a cheaper price point, but it looks like Wired has nailed a first-gen product. I hope more magazines and newspapers follow. It would be neat to not have to walk out in the morning to get the newspaper, but to be able to see it in this type of version on a tablet device, and best of all, when your newspaper or magazine is done publishing, it could immediately be available on your iPad.
Imagine, guys, not having to look out the window waiting for the mailman to bring your Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue (and now the magazine would come with videos, too). And can you imagine how many new App store customers there would be when Oprah's "O" goes iPad digital?
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Dell hopes to "Streak" past iPad with new tablet device
Dell announced its new "Streak" tablet computer today. It'll launch in the UK next month and in the U.S. later this summer. Pricing was not announced.
It has a five-inch screen and a 1 gigahertz processor. It's got a 5 MP autofocus camera with a dual LED flash and a front facing camera for eventual video chat capability. You can also make calls on it.
Users can remove the battery. It's got integrated 3G and Wi-Fi plus bluetooth.
The Streak runs Google's Android operating system and will have access to more than 38,000 Apps.
According to most reports it'll have a monthly subscription plan via AT&T. But due to the small screen size, this is more of a phone competitor than iPad tablet competitor. The iPad is nearly twice the size.
Larger Streaks are apparently coming, however, and choice is always good.
It has a five-inch screen and a 1 gigahertz processor. It's got a 5 MP autofocus camera with a dual LED flash and a front facing camera for eventual video chat capability. You can also make calls on it.
Users can remove the battery. It's got integrated 3G and Wi-Fi plus bluetooth.
The Streak runs Google's Android operating system and will have access to more than 38,000 Apps.
According to most reports it'll have a monthly subscription plan via AT&T. But due to the small screen size, this is more of a phone competitor than iPad tablet competitor. The iPad is nearly twice the size.
Larger Streaks are apparently coming, however, and choice is always good.
PulseWave 2 PC Gaming Headset debuts
TekNmotion has released a second version of its PulseWave gaming headset. The $60 PulseWave 2 has upgraded audio quality, the company claims, plus large speaker drivers and a more comfortable ear design.
The new headphones support 7.1 channel virtual surround (I'd actually like to hear how it does that) using a USB connector, and it also supports 2.1 channel stereo through a standard audio plug. If it could really do a "virtual" 7.1 that would neat for users who don't have an eight speaker setup connected to their computer.
The unit also has a detachable noise-canceling microphone and a Sonic Force Feedback vibration feature, which allows you to "feel" the action much the way the rumble-enabled controllers for videogames allow you a little "feel" while playing.
You can find it at Amazon.com, NewEgg.com or at teknmotion.com
The new headphones support 7.1 channel virtual surround (I'd actually like to hear how it does that) using a USB connector, and it also supports 2.1 channel stereo through a standard audio plug. If it could really do a "virtual" 7.1 that would neat for users who don't have an eight speaker setup connected to their computer.
The unit also has a detachable noise-canceling microphone and a Sonic Force Feedback vibration feature, which allows you to "feel" the action much the way the rumble-enabled controllers for videogames allow you a little "feel" while playing.
You can find it at Amazon.com, NewEgg.com or at teknmotion.com
Capcom's "attorney" game for iPhone/iPod Touch releases
Capcom has released "Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney" for iPhone and iPod Touch, via Apple's App Store.
The game puts you in the character of Phoenix Wright, a rookie defense lawyer, and you must get your client out of trouble by collecting evidence, surveying crime scenes and trying to figure out which witnesses are lying. Using your finger, you can manipulate or organize evidence.
The game is $4.99
The game puts you in the character of Phoenix Wright, a rookie defense lawyer, and you must get your client out of trouble by collecting evidence, surveying crime scenes and trying to figure out which witnesses are lying. Using your finger, you can manipulate or organize evidence.
The game is $4.99
Monday, May 24, 2010
Rumor: iPhone to Sprint
With all the rumors swirling around a potential Verizon iPhone, a new report claims that 16.8 percent of all Verizon customers are waiting feverishly for their chance to pocket Steve Jobs' favorite device.
But the most interesting rumor is that Sprint may be getting iPhone, too.
Most people will tell you that Verizon has better call quality and reliability than AT&T. I don't doubt that. Having used iPhone for 18 months now, I have had dropped calls with AT&T, but haven't experienced the issues that I read about online from some AT&T customers or former customers. I had the original GSM phone from AT&T several years back and never had an issue except in a few known dead spots (and what is it about that area around Highway 51 and Sardis Road that is like a cell phone purgatory?). So maybe it is iPhone load that is causing AT&T network issues, and maybe if iPhone users spread to more networks, it might relieve the strain on AT&T.
Although AT&T wouldn't want to lose all those customers paying higher iPhone monthly bills.
What I do know is that AT&T and Verizon offer virtually the same prices. Sprint is several steps below them, and Sprint offers plans that have unlimited calling to any mobile phone, and Sprint has launched its new high speed 4G network in several markets, including Charlotte.
Sprint's service locally has improved, I'm told, as has their customer service, which used to be a major problem.
Last week, AT&T announced it was increasing its early termination fees to $325 from $175 for all new contracts after June 1. This led to wild speculation that iPhone is indeed going to more carriers. The thinking goes that if Verizon or Sprint or T-Mobile got the iPhone in the fall, consumers who signed up for the new iPhone next month would be loathe to leave AT&T a few months later and pay the new bigger fee.
But if I'm one of the new carriers, assuming there are some, I would be mad if Apple didn't announce our availability at launch of the new phone next month. That hurts potential sales and gives AT&T a huge advantage.
I think Apple would be smart to move iPhone to multiple carriers as it does in other countries. The Android phones are quite good and are available across brands. From a competition standpoint, that hurts Apple.
So all eyes will be on Steve Jobs' keynote address June 7 at 1 p.m. at the Worldwide Developers Conference in San Francisco. We know he's going to debut a new iPhone with the new operating system. But will he also say the magic words that many potential customers have been waiting to hear?
"And one more thing. Starting today, you can get iPhone from more carriers."
But the most interesting rumor is that Sprint may be getting iPhone, too.
Most people will tell you that Verizon has better call quality and reliability than AT&T. I don't doubt that. Having used iPhone for 18 months now, I have had dropped calls with AT&T, but haven't experienced the issues that I read about online from some AT&T customers or former customers. I had the original GSM phone from AT&T several years back and never had an issue except in a few known dead spots (and what is it about that area around Highway 51 and Sardis Road that is like a cell phone purgatory?). So maybe it is iPhone load that is causing AT&T network issues, and maybe if iPhone users spread to more networks, it might relieve the strain on AT&T.
Although AT&T wouldn't want to lose all those customers paying higher iPhone monthly bills.
What I do know is that AT&T and Verizon offer virtually the same prices. Sprint is several steps below them, and Sprint offers plans that have unlimited calling to any mobile phone, and Sprint has launched its new high speed 4G network in several markets, including Charlotte.
Sprint's service locally has improved, I'm told, as has their customer service, which used to be a major problem.
Last week, AT&T announced it was increasing its early termination fees to $325 from $175 for all new contracts after June 1. This led to wild speculation that iPhone is indeed going to more carriers. The thinking goes that if Verizon or Sprint or T-Mobile got the iPhone in the fall, consumers who signed up for the new iPhone next month would be loathe to leave AT&T a few months later and pay the new bigger fee.
But if I'm one of the new carriers, assuming there are some, I would be mad if Apple didn't announce our availability at launch of the new phone next month. That hurts potential sales and gives AT&T a huge advantage.
I think Apple would be smart to move iPhone to multiple carriers as it does in other countries. The Android phones are quite good and are available across brands. From a competition standpoint, that hurts Apple.
So all eyes will be on Steve Jobs' keynote address June 7 at 1 p.m. at the Worldwide Developers Conference in San Francisco. We know he's going to debut a new iPhone with the new operating system. But will he also say the magic words that many potential customers have been waiting to hear?
"And one more thing. Starting today, you can get iPhone from more carriers."
Friday, May 21, 2010
Pac Man turns 30 and gets on Google's home page, too
Quick, go hit google. You can play Pac-Man, for free, with your arrow keys. You can also play on your mobile phone.
Today is the 30th anniversary of one of the most simple -- and addictive -- video games of all time. Google says the Pac-Man demo, which is fully functional, will stay up for 48 hours.
If you tap the insert coin button twice, you can play Ms. Pac-Man at the same time by using the W-A-S-D keys for directional control.
Google says the game includes all 256 levels.
Have fun.
Note: To play on your mobile device, be sure to switch from "mobile" to "classic" view by toggling the control at the bottom of the Google page.
Today is the 30th anniversary of one of the most simple -- and addictive -- video games of all time. Google says the Pac-Man demo, which is fully functional, will stay up for 48 hours.
If you tap the insert coin button twice, you can play Ms. Pac-Man at the same time by using the W-A-S-D keys for directional control.
Google says the game includes all 256 levels.
Have fun.
Note: To play on your mobile device, be sure to switch from "mobile" to "classic" view by toggling the control at the bottom of the Google page.
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
And now you can make Skype calls on your flat screen 50 inch
Ever wanted to make Skype video phone calls in HD?
Panasonic and Skype have activated something called SkypeTM on certain 2010 Panasonic-brand flat screens (VIERA CAST enabled models). Customers need a $170 special camera to allow video conferencing. The camera has four built-in unidirectional microphones, so you don't need to hold anything in your hand during conversation. Just get within viewing range of your TV and talk
The new setup will allow consumers to make free Skype-to-Skype voice and video calls directly from the boob tube. You can also make calls to landline or mobile phones for a fee. You get voicemail and the ability to conference with 24 other people.
Panasonic and Skype have activated something called SkypeTM on certain 2010 Panasonic-brand flat screens (VIERA CAST enabled models). Customers need a $170 special camera to allow video conferencing. The camera has four built-in unidirectional microphones, so you don't need to hold anything in your hand during conversation. Just get within viewing range of your TV and talk
The new setup will allow consumers to make free Skype-to-Skype voice and video calls directly from the boob tube. You can also make calls to landline or mobile phones for a fee. You get voicemail and the ability to conference with 24 other people.
Saturday, May 15, 2010
A super-blending, smoothie-making, peanut smashing gadget for your kitchen
I love smoothies.
My kids love smoothies.
I just don’t like spending the better part of a 20 dollar bill every time the three of us want to have some.
That’s why I was so glad to try the Vitamix 5200 series blender. Only, I’m not sure I’d call it a blender. This thing will turn peanuts into peanut butter. It’ll spin so fast that it’ll turn out hot soup. As my wife will attest, I’m not much of a cook (a lot of Daddy-has-to-cook nights turn into Chick-Fil-A nights at my house), but I was game for anything with this machine.
There’s nothing I didn’t like about it. OK, there was one thing. It’s kind of shake-the-furniture loud when you turn it on high.
I’d also been testing that Jack LaLanne juicer ($99.99) you see on the infomericals every five minutes. I really like the Jack Juicer, too. It works well and will turn a carrot or two and an apple into a frothy speciality even my 6-year-old will devour. But the Jack Juicer is a little messy. It leaves large amount of pulp – the parts of the fruits and vegetables it can’t juice – in a little plastic container on the back of the machine.
Jack will tell you that you can use this pulp to make breads and other desserts, but me, I kind of wanted to get all those great nutrients that Jack talks about in the infomercial into my gremlin’s stomachs. After all, I am sneaking broccoli and spinach into my smoothies now, along with bananas and strawberries (the kids can’t tell).
The Vitamix leaves no pulp. Everything you put in, stays in. And you can blend to different textures: smoothie-like or totally smooth.
With pricing from $449 to $649, the Vitamix isn’t cheap but there are three-year payment plans available and it comes with a seven-year warranty that can be extended to 10 years. Surfing around the internet, trying to guage response to the product, I ran into a lot of raves from people who believe this is the last blender they’ll use for awhile.
I believe that. The Vitamix is tough. If you go to Smoothie King, you’ll notice it’s the brand used there. The 5200 delivers smoothies that are of the exact same consistency as those we buy at the store.
The machine comes with a huge cookbook, including smoothie recipes, soup recipes and directions for how to create things like oatmeal cranberry package pancake batter, curried lentil dip (it surprised me it was so good) and margaritas and daiquiris. Our drinks were virgin, of course.
And after a little trial and error, I was able to produce frosty smoothies that the kids said tasted just like the ones I was paying so much for. Only I could make them for about $1 per glass.
So in my house, over time, the Vitamix would pay for itself in smoothies alone.
My kids love smoothies.
I just don’t like spending the better part of a 20 dollar bill every time the three of us want to have some.
That’s why I was so glad to try the Vitamix 5200 series blender. Only, I’m not sure I’d call it a blender. This thing will turn peanuts into peanut butter. It’ll spin so fast that it’ll turn out hot soup. As my wife will attest, I’m not much of a cook (a lot of Daddy-has-to-cook nights turn into Chick-Fil-A nights at my house), but I was game for anything with this machine.
There’s nothing I didn’t like about it. OK, there was one thing. It’s kind of shake-the-furniture loud when you turn it on high.
I’d also been testing that Jack LaLanne juicer ($99.99) you see on the infomericals every five minutes. I really like the Jack Juicer, too. It works well and will turn a carrot or two and an apple into a frothy speciality even my 6-year-old will devour. But the Jack Juicer is a little messy. It leaves large amount of pulp – the parts of the fruits and vegetables it can’t juice – in a little plastic container on the back of the machine.
Jack will tell you that you can use this pulp to make breads and other desserts, but me, I kind of wanted to get all those great nutrients that Jack talks about in the infomercial into my gremlin’s stomachs. After all, I am sneaking broccoli and spinach into my smoothies now, along with bananas and strawberries (the kids can’t tell).
The Vitamix leaves no pulp. Everything you put in, stays in. And you can blend to different textures: smoothie-like or totally smooth.
With pricing from $449 to $649, the Vitamix isn’t cheap but there are three-year payment plans available and it comes with a seven-year warranty that can be extended to 10 years. Surfing around the internet, trying to guage response to the product, I ran into a lot of raves from people who believe this is the last blender they’ll use for awhile.
I believe that. The Vitamix is tough. If you go to Smoothie King, you’ll notice it’s the brand used there. The 5200 delivers smoothies that are of the exact same consistency as those we buy at the store.
The machine comes with a huge cookbook, including smoothie recipes, soup recipes and directions for how to create things like oatmeal cranberry package pancake batter, curried lentil dip (it surprised me it was so good) and margaritas and daiquiris. Our drinks were virgin, of course.
And after a little trial and error, I was able to produce frosty smoothies that the kids said tasted just like the ones I was paying so much for. Only I could make them for about $1 per glass.
So in my house, over time, the Vitamix would pay for itself in smoothies alone.
Friday, May 14, 2010
NBA2K10 one of the best sports video games ever made
The NBA playoffs are going on, and that gave me a reminder to dust off a game that I had not reviewed when it came out several months ago, 2K Sports' "NBA 2K10."
This is the best basketball video game ever made.
Graphically, this looks as nice as any game I've ever tried (I have the Xbox 360 version). The players look and move like you're watching them on TNT or ESPN. I love how the crowd is more interactive, too.
Some of my favorite features:
The game keeps up-to-date with trades and injuries and player ratings. So if the real-life Kobe Bryant hurts his finger, your digital Kobe will, too.
There's now an energy guide below your players, which shows you how well they can sprint to the ball or to play defense. You will have to rest guys more, and depending on how you use them, they will or will not have enough stamina to finish the game strong.
2K Sports has tripled the play-calling options. You now have 24 plays to use and have multiple ways to get a three-point shot or to push the ball into the paint.
If you're connected to the internet, the game streams real-life matchups, news and stats. You can create a player and take him to summer camp, training camps or the NBA's developmental league.
This is a basketball game you'll enjoy for a long, long time. Grade: A.
This is the best basketball video game ever made.
Graphically, this looks as nice as any game I've ever tried (I have the Xbox 360 version). The players look and move like you're watching them on TNT or ESPN. I love how the crowd is more interactive, too.
Some of my favorite features:
The game keeps up-to-date with trades and injuries and player ratings. So if the real-life Kobe Bryant hurts his finger, your digital Kobe will, too.
There's now an energy guide below your players, which shows you how well they can sprint to the ball or to play defense. You will have to rest guys more, and depending on how you use them, they will or will not have enough stamina to finish the game strong.
2K Sports has tripled the play-calling options. You now have 24 plays to use and have multiple ways to get a three-point shot or to push the ball into the paint.
If you're connected to the internet, the game streams real-life matchups, news and stats. You can create a player and take him to summer camp, training camps or the NBA's developmental league.
This is a basketball game you'll enjoy for a long, long time. Grade: A.
U.S. video game sales down 26 percent
According to market researcher the NPD Group, the Great Recession -- or something -- is killing video game sales.
NPD reports that U.S. retail sales of videogames fell 26 percent in April, compared to April 2009. Videogames accounted for $766.2 million in sales last month, partially due to a lack of new games launching.
Hardware sales dropped 37 percent to $249.3 million. The best selling system, the Nintendo DS dropped by more than half to 440,800. Nintendo is expected to release a new handheld this summer, the 3DS.
I think sales of Apple's iPad, iPhone and iPod Touch, which allow consumers to download games, at much cheaper costs, is also affecting sales. But experts say April is always a slow month because most videogame companies fiscal years end in March, leaving April as a dry month for new product releases.
NPD reports that U.S. retail sales of videogames fell 26 percent in April, compared to April 2009. Videogames accounted for $766.2 million in sales last month, partially due to a lack of new games launching.
Hardware sales dropped 37 percent to $249.3 million. The best selling system, the Nintendo DS dropped by more than half to 440,800. Nintendo is expected to release a new handheld this summer, the 3DS.
I think sales of Apple's iPad, iPhone and iPod Touch, which allow consumers to download games, at much cheaper costs, is also affecting sales. But experts say April is always a slow month because most videogame companies fiscal years end in March, leaving April as a dry month for new product releases.
Man wins $1 million playing baseball videogame
Wade McGilberry, a 23-year-old game lover from Mobile, Ala, just won $1 million by playing Major League Baseball 2K10.
He and his wife, Katy, who is also 23, plan to pay off their mortgage and start a family with the cash.
He won in about 90 minutes, becoming the first player to pitch a perfect game in Take-Two Interactive's baseball simulation game. The game maker offered the prize to the first person to pitch a perfect game and send proof. That means no hits, no walks and no hitters getting on base for any reason.
In real baseball, only 19 players have done it in history. Most recently, Oakland's Dallas Braden had one against Tampa Bay on May 9.
McGilberry bought the game after hearing about the million dollar promotion, and he started playing one day after work, with the video recorder running. He had his perfect game after "five or six attempts," he said
And now he's got a boat load of cash.
He and his wife, Katy, who is also 23, plan to pay off their mortgage and start a family with the cash.
He won in about 90 minutes, becoming the first player to pitch a perfect game in Take-Two Interactive's baseball simulation game. The game maker offered the prize to the first person to pitch a perfect game and send proof. That means no hits, no walks and no hitters getting on base for any reason.
In real baseball, only 19 players have done it in history. Most recently, Oakland's Dallas Braden had one against Tampa Bay on May 9.
McGilberry bought the game after hearing about the million dollar promotion, and he started playing one day after work, with the video recorder running. He had his perfect game after "five or six attempts," he said
And now he's got a boat load of cash.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Verizon working on an iPhone launch ad?
Tech blog spot Crunch Gear reports on rumors of an ad agency already developing an ad for the launch of Apple's iPhone on Verizon's network later this year.
Apple is expected to unveil a new iPhone next month at a conference.
Many iPhone customers complain that AT&T's network is not very good, leading to dropped calls, slow internet connections and calls going directly to voicemail even when the phone shows full coverage.
Verizon claims it has the nation's best 3G network and many customers who want iPhones are loathe to leave Verizon for AT&T.
Rumors of iPhone coming to Verizon have circulated all year after speculation popped up that AT&T's exclusive contract with Apple is up this year, though some analysts believe that AT&T's special pricing for the iPad, offering cheap monthly rates with no contracts, was done to extend the exclusivity arrangement into 2011.
Apple is expected to unveil a new iPhone next month at a conference.
Many iPhone customers complain that AT&T's network is not very good, leading to dropped calls, slow internet connections and calls going directly to voicemail even when the phone shows full coverage.
Verizon claims it has the nation's best 3G network and many customers who want iPhones are loathe to leave Verizon for AT&T.
Rumors of iPhone coming to Verizon have circulated all year after speculation popped up that AT&T's exclusive contract with Apple is up this year, though some analysts believe that AT&T's special pricing for the iPad, offering cheap monthly rates with no contracts, was done to extend the exclusivity arrangement into 2011.
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