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Engadget (57 unread)

Darkworks SDK transforms 2D games into 3D games, no 3D TV required

Posted: March 11th, 2010, 12:33pm PST by Darren Murph

Well, wouldn't you know it? 3D seems to be the topic of conversation here at GDC , and Paris-based Darkworks is making a splash by announcing the availability of its TriOviz for Games SDK. In short, this magical software concoction is a post-process effect that allows standard 2D games to be transformed into 3D masterpieces... and you don't even need to buy a 3D television. We were briefed on the tech here at the show, and we're told that the magic happens in the software and the glasses, and unlike existing 3D technologies, other users around the house will still be able to watch you play in 2D without all those blurred edges. In other words, existing titles (for Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and PC; sorry Wii owners!) can have a 3D experience added in, and we're guessing that a select few AAA games will be seeing a DLC pack in the near future for those who care to re-play their favorites in the third dimension. We'll be doing our best to swing by and catch a demo later today, but for now, just know that your life will never be the same once these 3D-ified games start shipping in the Spring.
Darkworks SDK transforms 2D games into 3D games, no 3D TV required originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 11 Mar 2010 15:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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PlayStation Move: everything you ever wanted to know

Posted: March 11th, 2010, 11:31am PST by Paul Miller

Sony dropped a lot of knowledge on us yesterday, at long last replacing rampant speculation with some cold hard facts -- and even a name! -- for its new PlayStation motion controller. The PlayStation Move is being described as a "platform" and a "virtual console launch" by folks at Sony, and we think they mean it, so prepare for a motion-controlled ad war later this year, as Microsoft and Sony set themselves up for a real three-way fight with Nintendo for your physical living room activity of the gaming variety. While some of the high-level Wii-like functionalities might be obvious, follow us after the break as we walk through the nitty gritty of everything we know so far about Move. Gallery: PlayStation Move press photos
Continue reading PlayStation Move: everything you ever wanted to know
PlayStation Move: everything you ever wanted to know originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 11 Mar 2010 14:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Dolby issues Axon SDK to bring surround sound to online console / Mac gamers

Posted: March 11th, 2010, 9:00am PST by Darren Murph

Dolby's Axon surround sound technology isn't exactly new (it's already used on a number of PC titles), but to date, it has yet to make a stand in the online console and Mac gaming sectors. All that changes today at GDC, with the aural company introducing an Axon software development kit that will make it possible for Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and OS X titles to integrate the technology. According to the company, this here solution provides improved audio chain processing (noise suppression and echo suppression), surround sound voice chat over stereo headsets, 5.1 playback and support for any stereo headset. We're told that the ports should be available for devs starting in April, though only time will tell how long it takes for your Xbox Live experience to go from haunting to all-encompassing.
Continue reading Dolby issues Axon SDK to bring surround sound to online console / Mac gamers
Dolby issues Axon SDK to bring surround sound to online console / Mac gamers originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 11 Mar 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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PrimeSense talks full-body motion control at GDC, gives us a video demonstration

Posted: March 10th, 2010, 11:02pm PST by Darren Murph

PrimeSense was formed in 2005, and unless you're a sickly obsessed silicon junkie, you've probably never heard of them. All that changes today. We sat down with the company at GDC to learn more about the chip that it produces, and we left with an imagination sore from being stretched so severely. Put simply, the company manufacturers a microchip that, when paired with off-the-shelf optics, can create a 3D grid that a computer can understand. The purpose here, as you can likely glean, is to enable PlayStation Eye-like interactions, or as the company suggests, a "more natural" way to interface with devices you use every day. Rather than grabbing the remote to switch channels or snapping up that HTPC keyboard in order to flip through your stored DVD library, PrimeSense would rather you kick back on the sofa and gently flick your hands in order to turn to this week's Gossip Girl or sort through those classic horror flicks.
Gallery: PrimeSense press photos

It's important to remember that PrimeSense isn't in the business of creating hardware, but today we were shown a reference design that looks an awful lot like an enlarged webcam. The device is completely USB powered, and while the unit shown in the images and video here was obviously a standalone device, we were told that it would be possible to integrate the solution into displays and the like in the future. They also mentioned that the depth location -- which enables it to map out a room and detect your entire body -- was done on-chip, with only the associated middleware taxing the CPU. Still, they've had success running this on Atom-level processors, so there's certainly no big horsepower hang-up preventing it from hitting up a variety of markets.

More after the break...

Gallery: PrimeSense motion control demo at GDC 2010
Continue reading PrimeSense talks full-body motion control at GDC, gives us a video demonstration
PrimeSense talks full-body motion control at GDC, gives us a video demonstration originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 11 Mar 2010 02:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Want more on the PlayStation Move? Head over to Joystiq!

Posted: March 10th, 2010, 10:01pm PST by Nilay Patel
Sony's calling the PlayStation Move the "next generation" of motion gaming and planning to market it as heavily as an entirely new console, so it's sort of a big deal -- and that means our main dudes at Joystiq are all over it. We've already covered the main details, but hit the links below if you're looking for some seriously deep dives.
Want more on the PlayStation Move? Head over to Joystiq! originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 11 Mar 2010 01:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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PlayStation Move first hands-on (update: video!)

Posted: March 10th, 2010, 8:58pm PST by Paul Miller
At last, we've felt Sony's long awaited motion controller, now at last officially known as "PlayStation Move," in our unworthy, sweaty hands. We have a bunch of videos on the way, but for now you can revel in our first close-ups of the controllers in the gallery below. Here are some of our initial thoughts:
- The controllers are light. Much more akin to the DualShock3 than the Wiimote in heft, and we're guessing that's due to Sony's continued love of rechargeable batteries.
- The main controller does have some subtle vibration (not DualShock or Wiimote level, but present), but we're not sure yet about the subcontroller.
- We hate to say this about "pre-alpha" software, but we're feeling lag. An on-rails shooter we tried out, dubbed The Shoot, was discernibly inferior to shooting experiences we've had on the Wii, both in precision and refresh rate of the aiming cursor.
- The gladiator game is about as fun as it looks, we'll have video after the break momentarily. Unfortunately, while it's less of a defined experience than something like the sword game on Wii Sports Resort, you're still working through a library of sensed, pre-defined actions instead of a true 1:1 fighting game with simulated physics. Not that it isn't possible with PlayStation Move, just that it's not this.
- The lightness of the controllers means we might be feeling less of that Wiimote fatigue, always a good thing! There's an aspect of the controller that feels a little cheap, but at the same time we wouldn't call it fragile.
- As far as we can tell, the control scheme for Socom 4 is quite similar to dual-controller shooter setups on the Wii, with the camera moving based on your aiming cursor hitting the edge. It's hard to see this as the preferred hardcore setup, but we're told it's configurable, so we'll try and see what else is on offer.
- The system seemed to have a bit of trouble understanding the configuration of our body in a swordfighting stance: even though we selected "left handed," it was putting our sword arm forward instead of our shield. Right-handers didn't seem to have similar problems, and we're sure this will be ironed out in time, but it certainly shows that the controllers aren't magical in their space-detection prowess.
- As would be expected, you're supposed to stand relatively center on the TV, and at a certain optimal distance. The system is forgiving, but there's a sweet spot that users will undoubtedly have to learn.
- Lag is less prominent on Socom 4, and we'd say we're pretty accurate with the controller already, though the framerate choppiness of this pre-alpha build obviously hampers that a bit. We did get a slight feel of being in "scene to scene" shootouts instead of a free-roaming FPS, perhaps a design choice to mitigate the limited camera movement offered by the controller, but we'll have to see more levels to know for sure.
Update: We added in a longer video -- are you ready for three minutes of nonstop excitement?

Update, final edition: We've got a new video with close-up walkthroughs of the controllers and some in-depth gameplay of Socom 4.

Gallery: PlayStation Move first hands-on
Continue reading PlayStation Move first hands-on (update: video!)
PlayStation Move first hands-on (update: video!) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 10 Mar 2010 23:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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PlayStation Move motion controller launched at GDC, starter kit to be under $100 with game

Posted: March 10th, 2010, 4:06pm PST by Nilay Patel

digg_url = 'http://digg.com/playstation/PlayStation_Move_motion_controller_launched_at_GDC'; No surprise here: Sony just officially announced the PlayStation Move motion controller at GDC 2010, calling it the "next generation of motion gaming" because it's so precise -- latency is about the same as the DualShock 3. As expected, it uses the PlayStation Eye camera to track the controller, and Sony says it becomes an "extension of your body." The plan is not only to engage casual gamers, but to use the precision of the controller to create "new experiences for core gamers" -- many of the demo videos we saw involved using a controller video in each hand, and there were quote a few demos of action / RPG games. We also saw a demo of Move Party, which uses the camera to do augmented reality gaming and video chat. The demos are pretty impressive -- Sony's not kidding when it says the Move is incredibly precise. There's also going to be a secondary "subcontroller" with an analog stick for shooters -- you can play all the way through SOCOM4 with just the Move and the sub-controller. (Yes, it's just like the Wii Nunchuk, only wireless.)

You'll be able to get Move in three ways: in a bundle with a PS3, standalone, and in a starter kit targeted at "under $100" with the PS Eye, a controller, and a game. That's all the pricing info we have right now, but it certainly sounds aggressive -- Sony says they're treating this like a major console launch, so expect to see this everywhere when it launches around the holidays. Video after the break.

Update: The European PlayStation Blog says some games will come bundled with Move as well.

Check out our hands-on right here!

Gallery: PlayStation Move announcement
Gallery: PlayStation Move press photos

Continue reading PlayStation Move motion controller launched at GDC, starter kit to be under $100 with game
PlayStation Move motion controller launched at GDC, starter kit to be under $100 with game originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 10 Mar 2010 19:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Live from Sony's 'PlayStation Move' motion controller event

Posted: March 10th, 2010, 4:05pm PST by Paul Miller

We just got underway at Sony's PlayStation Move motion controller event. Sure, they haven't called it "Move," just yet, but we just saw the "Move" moniker on a demo screen at the side of the stage, so we're feeling pretty confident at this point.
Continue reading Live from Sony's 'PlayStation Move' motion controller event
Live from Sony's 'PlayStation Move' motion controller event originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 10 Mar 2010 19:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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'PlayStation Move' trademarked by Sony in Europe, reeks of motion controller involvement

Posted: March 10th, 2010, 2:50pm PST by Darren Murph

We're exceptionally likely to find out the official name of Sony's PlayStation motion controller in just a few hours during the company's GDC press event, but till then, we've got one more late-breaking morsel to chew on: Move. According to trademark divers across the web, Sony has filed a European trademark for "PlayStation Move," which certainly sounds like a plausible title for some sort of motion-sensing apparatus. To date, we've also heard "Arc" thrown around (which we tend to prefer, if we're being candid), and the logo shown here -- which is said to belong to a separate trademark application -- definitely looks more like an "A" than an "M." Keep it locked right here for more as we get it.
'PlayStation Move' trademarked by Sony in Europe, reeks of motion controller involvement originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 10 Mar 2010 17:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Keepin' it real fake, part CCLVIII: shanzhai PSP Phone dampens our excitement for an actual PSP Phone

Posted: March 2nd, 2010, 6:41pm PST by Joseph L. Flatley

When one thinks of a PSP Phone, they usually imagine a handset with a number of cool, gamer-centric features, such as some sort of integration with the PlayStation network or -- imagine! -- the ability to actually play PSP games. What they don't imagine -- correct us if we're wrong -- is some sort of KIRFy cellphone shoved inside what is essentially the shell of a PSP. That said, we do have to give our friends in Shenzhen some props: not only have they beat Sony with this knock-off, but with the way things are going, they might have the PSP Phone market all to themselves in perpetuity. No specifics on this one yet -- price, stats, or street date -- but you probably weren't going to buy one anyways. Get a closer look after the break.
Continue reading Keepin' it real fake, part CCLVIII: shanzhai PSP Phone dampens our excitement for an actual PSP Phone
Keepin' it real fake, part CCLVIII: shanzhai PSP Phone dampens our excitement for an actual PSP Phone originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 02 Mar 2010 21:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Sony files for 'PlayStation Arc' trademark in Japan -- all but a done deal?

Posted: March 2nd, 2010, 2:59pm PST by Donald Melanson

Sony's PlayStation Motion Controller has gone through a few different names during its development, but "Arc" has cropped up far more than any other over the past few months, and it's now looking increasingly like a sure thing. While any official announcement will likely have to wait until GDC next week, the folks at Siliconera have discovered that Sony recently filed to trademark the name "PlayStation Arc" in Japan, which is just the latest form of confirmation of the name following a domain registration, and some noticeable name-dropping from gaming CEOs seemingly in-the-know. Of course, Sony could always pull a surprise out of its hat, and we'll be there live at GDC to report on whatever happens.
Sony files for 'PlayStation Arc' trademark in Japan -- all but a done deal? originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 02 Mar 2010 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Sony's PS3 motion controller might be called Arc, or something far less bodacious

Posted: January 19th, 2010, 5:24am PST by Darren Murph

Remember that retooled controller that Sony seemed darn well inclined to bring to the masses with its PlayStation 3? Some might say that was the original Arc, but given that just about everyone laughed the design off and forced the company's hand with the conventional SIXAXIS, there seems to be a distinct possibility that the suits are about to get their revenge. According to "a concrete source speaking under conditions of strict anonymity," VG247 has it that Sony's forthcoming PS3 motion controller will be labeled Arc when it hits retail shelves sometime "this year." If you'll recall, we knew that the device was called Gem (or was it Sphere?) during its internal production, but this is first time we've been notified of a proper name for those "on the outside." 'Course, only time (and high-ranking marketers) will tell whether the moniker will stick, but we find ourselves strangely attracted -- who knows, maybe we're just sympathetic.
Sony's PS3 motion controller might be called Arc, or something far less bodacious originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 19 Jan 2010 08:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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NPD: Wii leads video game industry to 'biggest sales month ever'

Posted: January 15th, 2010, 10:31am PST by Donald Melanson

Well, what a difference a couple of months and a holiday season can make. Just after finding that the video game console market shrunk by a fifth in October, NPD is now back with a new report that finds that December was the video game industry's "biggest sales month ever." Specifically, the group found that console sales jumped 4% compared to last December, with the Nintendo Wii unsurprisingly leading the way with 3.81 million units moved (up from 2.15 million the previous year). That's followed by the collective DS offerings at 3.31 million and, somewhat surprisingly, the PlayStation 3, which racked up sales of 1.36 million (its first time cracking the one million mark) compared to the Xbox 360's 1.31 million. Of course, no one's expecting sales to stay at quite that lofty level, but NPD says that the spike in December sales might well indicate that 2010 could be a recovery year.
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NPD: Wii leads video game industry to 'biggest sales month ever' originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 15 Jan 2010 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Reggie Fils-Aime: Wii users don't care for Netflix HD

Posted: January 15th, 2010, 12:54am PST by Vladislav Savov

We seriously have to question the sanity of some of these high-ranking corporate types. Reggie Fils-Aime, Nintendo of America boss and fearless orator, has joined Andy Rubin of Google in claiming that his customers do not require a feature so prevalent nowadays that it has become close to a basic standard. While the Xbox 360 and PS3 are capable of streaming full HD movies from Netflix at no extra cost, Reggie has stated his belief that "there really is no loss for the Wii consumer" because "the vast majority" of Netflix streaming content isn't HD anyway. Reiterating his longstanding, but never adequately explained, hesitance toward HD, Reggie has also claimed that the 26 million Wii console owners out there have voted with their wallets and will be quite happy to continue putt-putting along at standard def. Skip past the break to see him speaking his heresy with a straight face.
Continue reading Reggie Fils-Aime: Wii users don't care for Netflix HD
Reggie Fils-Aime: Wii users don't care for Netflix HD originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 15 Jan 2010 03:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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HTC HD2 plays Tekken 3 using FPSECE emulator

Posted: December 30th, 2009, 4:47pm PST by Vladislav Savov

Not much to say here other than there's a PlayStation emulator for the HD2 and it bloody well works! The original gangster of consoles, already emulated on other WinMo devices such as Toshiba's TG01, has made its way to HTC's finest thanks to version 0.10 of the First PlayStation Emulator for Windows CE. You can hit the read link to find out how to get it up and running on your own handset, and then we'll naturally expect you to come back and tell us how good it felt to play Final Fantasy VII in a whole new way. The more impatient among you will already be watching video of the HD2 running Tekken 3 effortlessly after the break, so go join 'em already.
Continue reading HTC HD2 plays Tekken 3 using FPSECE emulator
HTC HD2 plays Tekken 3 using FPSECE emulator originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 30 Dec 2009 19:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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US Air Force orders up 2,200 more PS3s, says they help it think

Posted: November 25th, 2009, 2:39am PST by Vladislav Savov

We were as surprised as anyone when the USAF threw down the cash for 300-odd PlayStation 3s back in March of last year, but what's more shocking is that it's now back for more -- seven times more, in fact. Already employing its PS3 cluster for research into high-def video processing, the Air Force Research Lab wants to expand its capabilities significantly and it seems that Sony's Cell processor is still its weapon of choice. We would use this opportunity to make a few jibes about lazy engineers upgrading their setups in time for Modern Warfare 2, but we're better than that. We'll also totally avoid noting that the US government's skimping on costs now is leading it to commit to an instruction set tailored specifically to the Cell processor, which contrary to the latest Xeons -- pricier though they may be -- is not guaranteed to keep updating in pace with the USAF's needs. Those are things we'll leave for someone who isn't afraid of death lasers and autonomous attack drones to say.
US Air Force orders up 2,200 more PS3s, says they help it think originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 05:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Firefox headed to the PS3? Can life get any better?

Posted: November 19th, 2009, 12:54pm PST by Laura June

Playstation Insider's got a tipster (one that's reportedly "very close" to the company) telling them that Sony is in heavy talks with Mozilla to port Firefox to the PS3. The tipster didn't know if any actual deal had been struck, but it's not terribly surprising considering the PS3's current built-in browser is less than awesome. That said, Firefox has actually crashed twice on us in the last 15 minutes, and no, we're not making that up.
Firefox headed to the PS3? Can life get any better? originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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AdhocParty for PSP coming to North America 'soon'

Posted: November 13th, 2009, 3:49pm PST by Donald Melanson

Gamers in Japan with both a PSP and PS3 have been able to use the adhocParty service to expand their multiplayer gaming options for quite a while now, and it looks like folks in North America will soon finally be able to get in on the action as well. For those not up to speed on it, the service effectively lets you use your PS3 as a gateway to let you play PSP games with an ad hoc mode (like Gran Turismo or Monster Hunter) over the internet instead of simply with other PSP users near you. You'll also be able to make use of the PS3's wireless headset or PlayStation Eye for voice chat with the service, but you will have to make sure your PS3 is connected to the internet via Ethernet or a wireless bridge (since it makes use of the built-in WiFi to connect to the PSP). Still no firm word on a release date, but it will be a free download from the PlayStation Store.
Filed under: Gaming
AdhocParty for PSP coming to North America 'soon' originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 18:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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NPD: Wii reclaims lead in US sales, but console gaming market shrinks by a fifth

Posted: November 13th, 2009, 8:23am PST by Vladislav Savov

The NPD has released its US video game industry figures for October, which reveal that total monthly revenue from hardware, software and accessories among all manufacturers fell to $1.07 billion, constituting a 19 percent drop from what the American gamer spent over the same period last year. After being toppled from its chart-leading ways in September by a price cut-boosted PS3, the Wii has regained its sales throne by chopping $50 off its own entry fee, making itself buoyant in the US, if not the world. The PS3's own sales have suffered a slump after the September euphoria, while the 360 is still wearing the dunce cap in third place. Microsoft's response has been to keep banging that drum about being the only console to show year-to-date growth, but when you're selling less than half as many consoles as Nintendo, you have to grasp at whatever straws are nearby. Speaking of Nintendo, its DS sales so far this year have continued at such a rate as to threaten its own 2008 hardware sales record -- set by the Wii -- with ten million units sold. So there you have it: Sony fails to maintain its September lead, Nintendo keeps churning, and Microsoft keeps hoping for better times ahead. Full list of figures after the break.

Read - Wii regains hardware top spot following US price cut
Read - Xbox 360 leads in year-to-date growth
Read - DS poised to break US hardware records
Continue reading NPD: Wii reclaims lead in US sales, but console gaming market shrinks by a fifth
Filed under: Gaming, Handhelds
NPD: Wii reclaims lead in US sales, but console gaming market shrinks by a fifth originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 11:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Leaked PS3 XMB images hint at Facebook integration, new image layout

Posted: November 11th, 2009, 3:42pm PST by Ross Miller

Although we were too late to verify for ourselves, both Joystiq and Scrawl swear up and down that the above three images, each of whom unfortunately lack a higher-res version, all hail from the official Sony Computer Entertainment Europe website, and each showing a feature of the PlayStation 3's XMB we haven't seen before: some form of Facebook integration, the ability to change gamercard colors, and a new method of photo organization / perusal. None of these would be too surprising or earth-shattering, really, and the juiciest question of them all -- exactly when we might see these additions -- is still a mystery. Just in case the pics come back up, their respective URLs are just below.

[Via Joystiq and Scrawl]

Read - Image one
Read - Image two
Read - Image three
Filed under: Gaming
Leaked PS3 XMB images hint at Facebook integration, new image layout originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 11 Nov 2009 18:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Netflix shipping out PS3 instant streaming discs!

Posted: November 5th, 2009, 9:56am PST by Paul Miller

digg_url = 'http://digg.com/playstation/Netflix_shipping_out_PS3_instant_streaming_discs'; It's been a long wait for PS3 users, who had to look on in envy as their Xbox 360 counterparts kicked back and started streaming Netflix as of July last year. Well, the wait is finally over, as PS3 instant streaming discs are being sent out to Netflix users (who've">[www.engadget.com] requested them) as we speak. Looks like our friend Jonathan here has a Friday delivery in store for him, while the lazier ones among us hunker down for an XMB software update late next year to let us stream Netflix to the PS3 disc-free, in keeping with the natural order of things.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]
Filed under: Home Entertainment
Netflix shipping out PS3 instant streaming discs! originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 12:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Engadget Podcast 169 - 10.31.2009

Posted: October 31st, 2009, 2:10pm PDT by Trent Wolbe

Enclosure: [download | LBL_PLAY]

Tired of all the DROID talk? Well, tough cookies, mister. Nilay, Paul and Josh have a lot to say on the subject, and you're just going to have to sit there and take it. Or you could skip the first 40 minutes of this week's podcast, but that's just a recipe for regret. If you do stick it out you'll be treated to some unusually candid discussion of Josh's facial hair and other more pertinent questions picked from the USTREAM discussion that will almost certainly frighten you straight.

WARNING: This podcast has been known to kill people. Engadget assumes no responsibility for injury or death.

[Thanks, JS and Rom for the image]

Hosts: Joshua Topolsky, Nilay Patel, Paul Miller
Producer: Trent Wolbe
Song: ChangWang2003 - 99 Problems (Battletoads Remix)

Hear the podcast

00:01:28 - Motorola DROID review
00:19:08 - HTC confirmed to be cooking up Android 2.0 update for Hero, other devices unclear
00:19:19 - Android 2.0 ported to original T-Mobile G1 (video)
00:19:29 - HTC Droid Eris peeks its head out once more, shows off 5MP camera
00:30:48 - Google Navigation video hands-on: you want this
00:32:25 - The game has changed
00:37:18 - How-to: hack your own DROID dock with magnets and cardboard
00:41:20 - Storm2 now available from Verizon for those who waited
00:49:25 - Nintendo DSi LL goes large in Japan on November 21 (update: DSi XL in Europe Q1)
00:53:41 - Netflix for PlayStation 3 requires a disc, software solution coming late 2010
00:57:28 - Apple TV 3.0 software update is out, with iTunes Extras, LP & Genius in tow
01:06:23 - Nokia vs. Apple: the in-depth analysis
01:06:40 - How-to: recycle your old gadgets

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Contact the podcast

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Filed under: Podcasts
Engadget Podcast 169 - 10.31.2009 originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 31 Oct 2009 16:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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How would you change Sony's PlayStation 3 Slim?

Posted: October 30th, 2009, 9:43pm PDT by Darren Murph

For the most part, we'd say that Sony addressed the concerns of many when it introduced the PlayStation 3 Slim. The console was smaller, cheaper and easier on the eyes, and of course the 120GB hard drive didn't hurt matters either. That said, we know that the redesign didn't please everyone, and we've heard more than a few PS3 diehards complain about the new design. If it were you designing a newer, less expensive PlayStation 3, what would you have done differently? Kept PS2 backwards compatibility? Colored it white? Added HD DVD support? Don't be scared to get a little crazy -- besides, they call that "innovation" in the corporate world.
Filed under: Gaming
How would you change Sony's PlayStation 3 Slim? originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 30 Oct 2009 23:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Sony Ericsson Q3 slump buoyed by new financing, a rumored November launch for XPERIA X3

Posted: October 16th, 2009, 2:49pm PDT by Ross Miller

Bad news, good news, and potentially great news time, folks. First with the bad: Sony Ericsson posted another loss for its fiscal third quarter, to the tune of 164 million euro (about $244 million US), blaming a large chunk of that on a drop in sales. Sales dropped year-over-year 40 percent to 1.6 billion euro, and unit shipments comparably down 45 percent. That's the bad, now what's good for SE is that its secured more financial backing to reshape its future into something more profitable. External financing totals a reported 455 million euro ($676 million US), 255 million of which is already in the company's position and 200 million as a two-year backup. SE also managed to beat analyst estimates, losing less than anticipated, and that's gotta induce some bittersweet smiles in the corporate boardrooms... oh, the potentially great news? Well, SEMC blog has boldly announced that the Android-imbued Rachael (a.k.a. XPERIA X3) is due out this November, same specs as we heard before and two color options, Sensuous Black and Luster White. Unfortunately, we're not seeing exactly where this news is coming for, so until SE speaks the magic words, we're considering it a rumor for now -- but we're hopeful.

[Via GSM Arena; thanks, Gillz and Christo]

Read - Rachael in November?
Read - Sony Ericsson 3Q loss widens
Read - XPERIA X3 in the wild
Filed under: Cellphones
Sony Ericsson Q3 slump buoyed by new financing, a rumored November launch for XPERIA X3 originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 16 Oct 2009 16:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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PSP Go Rewards program hitting DRM-laced brick wall

Posted: October 8th, 2009, 7:50pm PDT by Darren Murph

Needless to say, none of this applies to the Americans in attendance, but for international PSP Go buyers looking forward to taking advantage of Sony's PSP Go Rewards program, the always user-friendly DRM seems to be putting a solid kink in those enjoyment plans. According to a growing number of users at the official European PlayStation boards, an error by the name of 80109D53 is causing downloaded titles to not play back on the new handhelds. We're told that Sony is aware of the issue and is toiling away in an effort to fix things, but for now, it seems as if you can sidestep some of the risk by downloading your trio of free titles (which Sony offers if you're an existing UMD owner) directly to the PSP Go rather than sideloading 'em from a PS3. Any others having this issue? Figured out a solution? Shoot your mouth off in comments below.

[Thanks, James]
Filed under: Gaming, Handhelds, Software
PSP Go Rewards program hitting DRM-laced brick wall originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 08 Oct 2009 21:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Sony's PlayStation Motion Controller now codenamed Sphere?

Posted: October 5th, 2009, 11:45am PDT by Donald Melanson

Sony may still have officially been using the less-than-imaginative "Motion Controller" name for its, um, motion controller at the Tokyo Game Show last month, but it looks like some developers working with the technology weren't sticking as close to the script, and may have revealed the project's proper codename. As Joystiq notes, Sega producer Yasuhito Baba referred to the device as "Sphere" during an interview at the show, and Polyphony Digital's Kazunori Yamauchi also seemed to respond to the "Sphere" name without missing a beat when asked if Gran Turismo would support the peripheral. So, certainly less of a mouthful, and not exactly the worst of names if true -- in fact, it's such a good codename that none other than Microsoft has already adopted it for one of its projects.

Filed under: Gaming
Sony's PlayStation Motion Controller now codenamed Sphere? originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 05 Oct 2009 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Video: Toshiba Cell Regza 55X1 and Regza Next concepts hands-on

Posted: October 5th, 2009, 5:56am PDT by Ross Miller

Now that the Cell-powered cat's out the bag, we had a chance to get up close and personal with a number of its 55-inch Cell Regza 55X1 LCD TVs on hand at the CEATEC show floor. It's certainly not the thinnest flat-screen panel, but the screen was crisp and colors bright. The Cell and most of the heavy duty components were housed in a separate Cell Box -- frankly, it was disappointing just how large the box was, out-sizing even the original PlayStation 3. For reasons that weren't quite made clear to us, the 3TB of storage were divided among four separate drives, two 1TB and two 500GB. None of them are accessible, leaving you only an external USB drive as an expansion option. Frankly, the real draw here (at least the multitaskers inside of us) is eight-window display function and hyper-fast channel scrolling, which in our time with the TV worked great without a hitch.

Also on hand were the four Cell Regza Next concept models. There's not much to say about the entertainment server and the all-in-one, but we do have to give credit to the 4K2K TV for the expected visual quality. The 3D unit was showing off a hands-only motion-controlled user interface, demonstrated only by a Toshiba rep, that seemed to have a few technical hiccups. As we've said before (Natal, anyone?), waving your arms is a fun concept, but here we're not yet sold on the usefulness over novelty of it -- something Toshi can mull over between now and at whatever point in the future it plans on upgrading it beyond concept phase. Video of the 55X1 and the conceptual 3D UI after the break.

Gallery: Toshiba Cell Regza hands-on

Gallery: Toshiba Cell Regza Next future concepts hands-on
Continue reading Video: Toshiba Cell Regza 55X1 and Regza Next concepts hands-on
Filed under: Displays, Home Entertainment
Video: Toshiba Cell Regza 55X1 and Regza Next concepts hands-on originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 05 Oct 2009 07:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Sony takes Uncharted 2 on tour, with 4K digital projection to make you forever loathe your home setup

Posted: October 3rd, 2009, 10:24am PDT by Paul Miller

Looking for a quick and easy way to become completely dissatisfied with your own PS3 rig? Maybe you could try tracking down Sony at one of its "sneak peak" stops, where attendees will be able to play through some of the upcoming, already-lauded Uncharted 2 on a movie screen powered by a Sony 4K digital cinema projector. Unfortunately, only four locations have been named, and two of them are in California, so not quite everybody is going to get a chance to spoil themselves for this generation of video games forever.
Filed under: Gaming, HDTV
Sony takes Uncharted 2 on tour, with 4K digital projection to make you forever loathe your home setup originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 03 Oct 2009 12:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Sony says Nazi PS3 ad is a "mock campaign" and not real

Posted: October 1st, 2009, 11:31am PDT by Nilay Patel

We can't say this was unexpected, but Sony just pinged us to say that that Nazi PS3 ad is "totally fake" and was made without their approval -- here's the statement from the executive president of BBDO Chile, which made the ads:

This creative design did not involve and was never approved by Sony Computer Entertainment or Sony. This "mock campaign" was developed by BBDO Chile staff and was submitted to various creative competitions/festivals without prior notification or approval from SCE/Sony, and it is not representative of the views or advertising policies of SCE/Sony. BBDO Chile apologizes for using this creative concept without authorization or prior approval, and for its misrepresentation of the PlayStation brand and its values.
Settles that, we suppose -- although we're guessing BBDO Chile isn't going to be Sony's agency of record very much longer.
Filed under: Gaming
Sony says Nazi PS3 ad is a "mock campaign" and not real originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 01 Oct 2009 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Sony's PSP Go available t-t-t-today junior!

Posted: October 1st, 2009, 8:14am PDT by Darren Murph

It may not do UMDs, but it does fun, and it does it well. Just in case you've forgotten -- after all, it's not like anything really happened in September to mess with your memory -- today's the day to find Sony's PSP Go on store shelves. $249.99, you, your local retailer and some fancy digital content -- it's a date. Isn't it?
Filed under: Gaming, Handhelds
Sony's PSP Go available t-t-t-today junior! originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 01 Oct 2009 10:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Mad Catz announces 'Round Two' Street Fighter IV fightpads and fightstick

Posted: September 25th, 2009, 6:03pm PDT by Donald Melanson

It's not doing anything crazy like lowering the price, but it looks like Mad Catz is at least set to give fighting game fans a few more options when it comes to choosing their peripheral of choice. As usual, the headliner is the company's Tournament Edition fightstick, which dials things back after the explosion of color on the Comic-Con exclusive edition, but otherwise remains identical inside and out. Those that honed their Street Fighter skills on their SNES or Genesis can also now choose from a new range of fightpads, featuring artwork with your choice of M. Bison, Guile, Zangief, C. Viper, Cammy, or Sagat. No firm release date just yet, but the whole lot should be out sometime this fall for both the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3, with the fightstick setting you back the usual $149.99, and the fightpads running a considerably more affordable $39.99 apiece.

[Via Joystiq]

Filed under: Gaming, Peripherals
Mad Catz announces 'Round Two' Street Fighter IV fightpads and fightstick originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 25 Sep 2009 20:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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PS3 3.0 / 3.01 firmware update making Blu-ray drive unusable?

Posted: September 25th, 2009, 12:34pm PDT by Donald Melanson

What could possibly cause nearly 700 comments on an official Sony blog post announcing the relatively minor 3.01 firmware update for the PS3? Plaudits? A Kanye meme gone awry? No, it's the age old problem of an update that apparently breaks more than it fixes. In this case, a sizable number of users are reporting that the 3.0 and/or 3.01 update caused their PS3's Blu-ray drive to be all but unusable for both games and Blu-ray movies (although some folks report that DVDs still work). Other users are also reporting intermittent problems like no sound, and some problems with specific games, but it does seem like the complaints are pretty widespread and, as of yet, Sony isn't saying much about them. Bitten by the upgrade bug yourself? Let us know in comments.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]
Filed under: Gaming
PS3 3.0 / 3.01 firmware update making Blu-ray drive unusable? originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 25 Sep 2009 14:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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PSP Go Converter gives you a more well-rounded portable with support for last-gen's peripherals

Posted: September 24th, 2009, 1:02am PDT by Ross Miller
Honestly, when we first heard the phrase "PSP Go Converter," we were really hoping it something to do with that UMD-to-digital good will program we heard about back at E3 -- but alas, it wasn't meant to be. Instead, the attachment lets you utilize accessories so far only compatible with last-gen PSPs, such as the 1Seg tuner, GPS receiver, and camera -- and if that's not your thing, we're sure it makes the device a tad more aerodynamic, as well. Sony also announced a number of other accessories, including a bluetooth stereo headset. Full press release and pics from the show floor just below.
Gallery: PSP Go Converter gives you a more well-rounded portable with support for last-gen's peripherals

Show full PR text
SONY COMPUTER ENTERTAINMENT ANNOUNCES PERIPHERALS FOR PSP(R) (PLAYSTATION(R)PORTABLE)GO

Expands the Entertainment World of PSPgo with Attractive Peripheral and Accessory Line-up

Tokyo, September 24, 2009 - Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. (SCE) announced today that it will release Bluetooth(R) Stereo Head-set Receiver and Converter Cable Adaptor for PSP(R) (PlayStation(R)Portable)go (PSP-N1000) on December 24, 2009, in Japan, at a recommended retail price of 4,980 yen and 1,980 yen (both including tax), respectively. These peripherals will also become available in North America, Europe/PAL territories and Asian countries and regions beginning January 2010*1.

Bluetooth Stereo Head-set Receiver

With a sleek design that matches perfectly with PSPgo, users will be able to enjoy a variety of entertainment content sounds comfortably through the Bluetooth wireless technology with the combination of commercially available head-phone and head-set. The Bluetooth Stereo Head-set Receiver pairs easily with PSPgo by simply holding the power button of the receiver, and operation buttons on the receiver will also enable users to instantly play, stop, pause, forward, rewind, and adjust the volume of music and videos. Additionally, the receiver can be paired with up to eight Bluetooth devices by using the Multi Pairing Feature.

Converter Cable Adaptor

With the new Converter Cable Adaptor*2, PSPgo users will be able to utilize the existing peripherals for PSP such as 1Seg Tuner*3, GPS Receiver and Camera designed for PSP-1000, 2000 and 3000 series on the PSPgo system that adopts Multi use connector.

Additional peripherals and accessories will be released for PSPgo in conjunction with PSPgo launch in Japan to enhance its portability and convenience of users' use, including:
- AC Adaptor 2,100 yen (including tax)
- USB Cable 1,575 yen (including tax)
- AV Cable 2,200 yen (including tax)
- D-Terminal AV Cable 2,800 yen (including tax)
- Component AV Cable 3,000 yen (including tax)
- Cradle 4,800 yen (including tax)
- Accessory Pack 6,000 yen (including tax)
- Display Protection Film 800 yen (including tax)
- Privacy Film 1,000 yen (including tax)
- Pouch & Hand Strap (Black/White) 1,000 yen (including tax)/each
- PSPgo Pouch (Black/Grey) 1,600 yen (including tax)/each
- PSPgo Leather Case & Hand Strap 4,200 yen (including tax)
- Car Adaptor 1,980 yen (including tax)
SCE will continue to further expand the PlayStation platforms with these new peripheral and accessory line-up with introducing the new PSP line-up, PSPgo.
Filed under: Gaming, Peripherals
PSP Go Converter gives you a more well-rounded portable with support for last-gen's peripherals originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 24 Sep 2009 03:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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250GB PS3 bundles aplenty headed to Europe?

Posted: September 21st, 2009, 1:51pm PDT by Donald Melanson

Well, Sony may still be denying any plans of a 250GB PS3 bundle for the US, but it looks like the rumors just keep on cropping up in Europe, and this latest one is quite the doozy. According to Joystiq, that all too familiar inventory screen above comes from a purported Norwegian GameStop employee, and quite clearly reveals no less than five different 250GB PS3 bundles, including your choice of Ratchet & Clank, Assassin's Creed 2, FIFA 10, Need for Speed: Shift, or Uncharted 2 for a game. Prices are reportedly the same for each (a 500 kr, or $85 increase over the standard 120GB model), although there's unfortunately no release dates given for any of 'em. Of course, there is a confirmed date for the Tokyo Game Show, which would seem like a prime opportunity for them to get official, if they are indeed the real deal.
Filed under: Gaming
250GB PS3 bundles aplenty headed to Europe? originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 21 Sep 2009 15:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Square Enix President predicts Wii HD for 2011, doesn't see big impact for PS3 and Xbox motion controls

Posted: September 21st, 2009, 10:12am PDT by Paul Miller

Image courtesy of GAME Watch
Sure, they sound like the words of a man who hasn't begun development of any motion-controlled titles for the Xbox 360 or PlayStation 3, but we're still intrigued by President of Square Enix Yoichi Wada's statement (he's the guy on the left) that the motion control additions to the PS3 and Xbox 360 aren't that big of deal. He cites the other "pillars" of console use (like video playback) that somehow make motion controls a minor player -- though we'd say the Wii's sales numbers would beg to differ. Speaking of the Wii, Yoichi thinks all three major consoles will start to look rather the same by 2011, when believes the Wii followup will hit the market -- in line with other">[www.engadget.com] rumors we've heard for the "Wii HD." Three "HD" consoles with similar input options and similar graphics output certainly sounds like a boon for developers, we just hope there are enough similarities in the control systems and enough "impact" in PS3 and Xbox motion control sales to make mega triple-platform motion-controlled blockbusters feasible.

[Via Joystiq]

Filed under: Gaming
Square Enix President predicts Wii HD for 2011, doesn't see big impact for PS3 and Xbox motion controls originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 21 Sep 2009 12:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Stateside PS3 sales up 300% following Slim introduction

Posted: September 13th, 2009, 3:11am PDT by Joseph L. Flatley

Boy, it sure likes Sony did something right slimmin' down (and slightly cripplin') that new PS3 of theirs. And sure, considering that the British picked up PlayStation 3 purchases a whopping 999%, maybe a Stateside retail bump of a "mere" 300% (for the first week after the price cut) is small potatoes. Or maybe we're just growing jaded. If this isn't great, good news enough for Sony, check it: as of August, according to a survey by GamePlan Insights, five of consumers' top 10 most-wanted games are on PS3 (including Gran Turismo 5, Final Fantasy XIII, God of War III, Assassin's Creed 2, and Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2). For more exciting facts, figures, and details, check out the PR after the break.

[Via Joystiq]
Continue reading Stateside PS3 sales up 300% following Slim introduction
Filed under: Gaming
Stateside PS3 sales up 300% following Slim introduction originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 13 Sep 2009 05:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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New study finds close to one quarter of Xbox 360s fail within two years

Posted: September 4th, 2009, 12:43pm PDT by Donald Melanson

Sure, it's not exactly news to hear that the Xbox 360 is the most unreliable console of the big three, but just how unreliable is it? Now there's a point of contention. The good news for Microsoft, of sorts, is that a new study from SquareTrade found that just 23.7% of Xbox 360 consoles failed within the first two years of ownership, which is actually a fair bit better than some of the previous numbers that topped 50%. The study also found that 10% of PlayStation 3 users reported a system failure, compared to a mere 2.7% of Wii owners. The Wii actually fared the worst when it came to power and remote control issues, however, while the most common problems with the Xbox 360 and PS3 were disc read errors and output issues. For its part, while Microsoft hasn't responded to this particular study, it has previously pointed to its "best warranty in the industry" to reassure its users and, of course, to its more recently-produced consoles, which are less likely to buckle under the pressure of a marathon Call of Duty session.

[Via InformationWeek]
Filed under: Gaming
New study finds close to one quarter of Xbox 360s fail within two years originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 04 Sep 2009 14:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Sony R&D explains some background on the PlayStation motion controller

Posted: August 30th, 2009, 7:14am PDT by Paul Miller

Well, it's no GameGun, but we hear this "PlayStation motion controller" thing from Sony is going to be "kind of a big deal." The SCEA R&D team was kind enough to put together some behind the scenes footage detailing a bit of the genesis of the controller and some of its technical prowess, and according to Sony this should be just enough of a calculated tease to get us excited for TGS in late September. We feel so manipulated. Video is after the break.

[Via Engadget Spanish]

Continue reading Sony R&D explains some background on the PlayStation motion controller
Filed under: Gaming, Peripherals
Sony R&D explains some background on the PlayStation motion controller originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 30 Aug 2009 09:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Engadget Podcast 161 - 08.29.2009

Posted: August 29th, 2009, 1:49pm PDT by Trent Wolbe

Enclosure: [download | LBL_PLAY]

Missed the live show? Hate things happening in real time? We understand exactly how you may or may not feel, and have thrown together this intense, packaged, downloadable version of the show for you to consume. It's kind of like a podcast, except with way more excitement and knowledge. The boys touched on a wide range of news week, pouring out their Snow Leopard early adopter woes and conjecturing on the future of book reading in the highly informative Sony Reader section. There's something here for the whole family!
Hosts: Joshua Topolsky, Nilay Patel, Paul Miller
Producer: Trent Wolbe
Song: Rock You Like A Hurricane

Hear the podcast

00:02:27 - Snow Leopard review
00:23:40 - Editorial: Apple, the FCC, and the sideloading solution
00:37:20 - Sony announces Reader Daily Edition, free library ebook checkouts
00:53:40 - Nokia N900 running Maemo 5 officially €500 in October (update: Video!)
00:59:51 - Nokia introduces Booklet 3G 'mini laptop'
01:07:48 - PlayStation 3 Slim review
00:12:10 - Xbox 360 price drops go global on Friday, it's official

Subscribe to the podcast

[iTunes] Subscribe to the Podcast directly in iTunes (enhanced AAC).
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Download the podcast

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Contact the podcast

1-888-ENGADGET or podcast (at) engadget (dot) com.

Twitter: @joshuatopolsky @futurepaul @reckless @engadget
Filed under: Podcasts
Engadget Podcast 161 - 08.29.2009 originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 29 Aug 2009 15:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Australian PS3 Ultimate Blu-ray Movie Kit isn't as ultimate as you might expect

Posted: August 29th, 2009, 4:33am PDT by Ross Miller

Sony's PlayStation 3 already only does everything, so what more could you possibly need? Australians can find out for themselves with the Ultimate Blu-ray Movie Kit. Don't let the name fool you, it's really just the PS3 remote and two discs, but at $60 AUD (that's $51 for US), it's only one Banjo Paterson / $10 AUD more than what the remote retails on its lonesome. Both bundles include 300 as the first film, so you're really choosing between 10,000 B.C. and Batman Begins. Not exactly a tough decision unless you already own Batman, but then again, you still might opt for a second copy instead.

[Via Kotaku]

Read - Batman Begins / 300 bundle
Read - 10,000 B.C. / 300 bundle
Filed under: Gaming, Home Entertainment
Australian PS3 Ultimate Blu-ray Movie Kit isn't as ultimate as you might expect originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 29 Aug 2009 06:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Xbox 360 'Super Elite' with 250GB HDD glimpsed in South African retail ad

Posted: August 28th, 2009, 5:13pm PDT by Ross Miller

So much for secrecy. South African Xbox 360 distributor Comztek has told local gaming news site XboxGaming.co.za that the a 250GB "Super Elite" model is due there in October. Additionally, the Forza 3 bundle we saw heading to Germany is also en route to SA, retailing for R4,999 (US $646), or around the same price as the Elite before its recent global price cut. South African retailer BT Games has apparently also posted a flier in honor of the launch (pictured), offering a R500 discount on the Super Elite (non-Forza 3 bundle, presumably) with the trade-in of a slimline PlayStation 2, totaling R4,199 (US $541) post-discount, or a 120GB Elite for R2,999 after the same trade-in rebate. Let's hope the folks in Redmond have as much of a sense of humor about leaks as Sony does.

[Via Joystiq]
Filed under: Gaming
Xbox 360 'Super Elite' with 250GB HDD glimpsed in South African retail ad originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 28 Aug 2009 19:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Sony's new PS3 Slim ads prove it 'gets' the internet

Posted: August 27th, 2009, 5:15pm PDT by Joshua Topolsky

We have to hand it to Sony, they've followed up nicely on their "worst kept secret" trade show jokes with an ad campaign that is fittingly self aware. Our only gripe? That cheap shot at Bernie Buncalan -- his blog is pretty good. We also packed in another video after the break. Enjoy.
Continue reading Sony's new PS3 Slim ads prove it 'gets' the internet
Filed under: Gaming
Sony's new PS3 Slim ads prove it 'gets' the internet originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 27 Aug 2009 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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PlayStation 3 Slim review

Posted: August 27th, 2009, 9:31am PDT by Ross Miller

digg_url = 'http://digg.com/gadgets/PlayStation_3_Slim_review'; Even before Sony's big unveil earlier this month at Cologne GamesCom, it felt like we already knew the PlayStation 3 Slim quite intimately. A leak from back in May gave us a glimpse of every angle of the hardware's exterior, and even the final retail box. At that point, we didn't know what to make of it, and the change in logo font definitely threw us off. Three months, thirty seconds of video, and a dash of legal paperwork later, and we're looking at that very same leaked device, now taking up space adjacent to our hefty 60GB "Classic" model from launch day. Unquestionably, it's smaller and lighter, but how else has Sony's Blu-ray-playing console evolved -- or regressed -- over these past few years? Read on to find out!

Gallery: PS3 Slim vs. PS3 original vs. Xbox 360... fight!
Continue reading PlayStation 3 Slim review
Filed under: Gaming
PlayStation 3 Slim review originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 27 Aug 2009 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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PS3 motion controller's launch titles will work single-wandedly

Posted: August 25th, 2009, 8:08pm PDT by Ross Miller

The PlayStation 3 motion controller's actual launch date is still shrouded in multiple layers of mystery, but when it finally does make it to market, Sony Worldwide Studios boss Shuhei Yoshida wants to assure you that you won't be needing to purchase two wands for any games -- at least at first. All launch titles will work with just one motion controller and camera, but there will be some options for those wanting to dual-wand -- "experiences will be enhanced if you purchase a second," he said. That does leave open the possibility of future titles mandating a dual-wand setup -- we wouldn't be surprised if some sword fighting simulators required it -- but at least you can dip your toes in first and see if that bucket of plastic game peripherals really has room for more.

[Via Joystiq]

Filed under: Gaming
PS3 motion controller's launch titles will work single-wandedly originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 25 Aug 2009 22:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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PS3 Slim gets torn asunder

Posted: August 25th, 2009, 5:40pm PDT by Ross Miller

If you're wanting some quality analysis of what's under the PlayStation 3 Slim's hood, you're still gonna have to wait for that. However, if you're the sort that just needs to see hardware broken down into as many simple pieces as possible, boy have we got some pictures for you.

Update: The results are in and well, there isn't a lot of excitement to show for it except for maybe the large 17-blade fan that stretches 95mm in diameter. There's also a video slideshow of the process, seen after the break.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in!]

Read - Tech Powerup forum
Read - iFixit teardown
Read - Rapid Repair teardown
Continue reading PS3 Slim gets torn asunder
Filed under: Gaming
PS3 Slim gets torn asunder originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 25 Aug 2009 19:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Sony's Andrew House hints at more social networking for PS3

Posted: August 25th, 2009, 12:18pm PDT by Donald Melanson

PlayStation Home not "social" enough for you? Fret not PS3 users (or soon-to-be PS3 users), 'cause Sony Computer Entertainment Europe head Andrew House has recently dropped a not so subtle hint that some more traditional social network features are on their way to the console. While he obviously didn't get too specific, House did tell the Financial Times that Sony has plans for more social networking features, and apparently wouldn't rule out a partnership with "popular sites such as Facebook," much like Microsoft has already announced for the Xbox 360. In PS3 price-cut news, House also noted that Sony is indeed aware that "consumers are watching their euros and pounds more carefully than before," but added that "it would not be fair to say this is a reaction to current market conditions."
[Via Joystiq]
Filed under: Gaming
Sony's Andrew House hints at more social networking for PS3 originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 25 Aug 2009 14:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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PS3 Slim shipping on August 26th, says Amazon

Posted: August 21st, 2009, 5:49pm PDT by Ross Miller

It looks like there might be a trend brewing among products with nondescript September release windows coming out in August instead -- first with Apple, and now with Sony. Supply shortages or no, Amazon's telling those who pre-ordered the PlayStation 3 Slim the first day it was announced should expect to have their consoles in-hand on Wednesday, August 26th, almost a whole week before the new month begins. Delivery estimates are subject to change, of course, but Amazon's not one to typically screw around with shipping confirmations. Any other early adopters received confirmations lately?

[Thanks, Devin!]
Filed under: Gaming
PS3 Slim shipping on August 26th, says Amazon originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 21 Aug 2009 19:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Engadget Podcast 160 - 08.21.2009

Posted: August 21st, 2009, 12:09pm PDT by Trent Wolbe

Enclosure: [download | LBL_PLAY]

They said it couldn't be done: could these three men really repeat the on-air magic they conjured during last week's live show? The internet yelled a resounding "yes!" yesterday, as Josh, Paul and Nilay chatted up the PS3 Slim and all other manner of technological trivia. Your hosts' voices charged through internet air waves and filled the hearts of those who tuned in live with irreplaceable joy as podcast history was being made. Oh, you missed it? Don't worry, we've got a static copy of the broadcast right here. It's pretty good.
Hosts: Joshua Topolsky, Nilay Patel, Paul Miller
Producer: Trent Wolbe
Song: The Entertainer

Hear the podcast

00:01:15 - Sony unveils slimmer PS3: $300, lands in September (updated!)
00:09:00 - PS3 Slim sized up: smaller, deeper, no Linux or PS2 compatibility
00:26:42 - Sony announces PS3 firmware 3.0, European PlayStation Video Store, Digital Reader comics viewer
00:27:10 - Sony announces 'snackable' 100MB Minis for PSN Store
00:35:51 - Nokia's Maemo 5 RX-51 / N900 tablet gets exhaustively previewed
00:41:45 - Nokia's Maemo 5 tablet shows up again, ready to play
00:49:07 - Dell Mini 3i smartphone gets official outing in China
01:08:17 - Canon outs new PowerShots: G11, S90, SX20 IS, SX120 IS, SD980 IS and SD940 IS
01:08:37 - Canon PowerShot G11 hands-on
01:12:00 - Canon's PowerShot lineup hands-on: the best of the rest

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Contact the podcast

1-888-ENGADGET or podcast (at) engadget (dot) com.

Twitter: @joshuatopolsky @futurepaul @reckless @engadget
Filed under: Podcasts
Engadget Podcast 160 - 08.21.2009 originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 21 Aug 2009 14:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Amazon says PS3 Slim already facing supply shortages, Sony disagrees

Posted: August 21st, 2009, 8:42am PDT by Paul Miller

Been holding off on that PS3 Slim pre-order, waiting for Sony to tell you that this whole PS2 backwards compatibility issue was just a big misunderstanding, and of course Sony will keep trying its best to reintroduce PS2 compatibility into the PS3? Well, you might want to rethink that strategy, cowboy, because Amazon is warning of "shortages of this product across the US." It's already limiting Slim sales to one per person, and has a more lax five-Slims-per-person strategy in the UK. Meanwhile, Sony in Europe is saying not to worry, since it has "trucks and trailers" of the new console already on the road . We just don't know who to believe these days, but if you're not prepared to wait past September 1st for a crack at the Slim, you've got some deciding to do.

Read - GamesIndustry.biz
Read - MVZ
Filed under: Gaming
Amazon says PS3 Slim already facing supply shortages, Sony disagrees originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 21 Aug 2009 10:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Video: Another look at PS3 Slim and its removable HDD

Posted: August 21st, 2009, 6:58am PDT by Ross Miller

Sure, you've seen the pictures already, but just in time for the weekend, we thought we'd put together this video showing off the PlayStation 3 Slim, both on its lonesome and as it compares to the classic PS3 and its Xbox 360 competitor. There's also a small segment that confirms what many readers have asked about: yes, the 2.5-inch Serial ATA hard drive is indeed removable and is done so with Sony's blessing (i.e. no worries, it won't void your warranty). The HDD enclosure is located behind a front panel just under the disk drive, which is a snap to pull out once you undo the blue screw from the bottom of the console. Confused? Check out the video after the break, you'll see what we mean.
Continue reading Video: Another look at PS3 Slim and its removable HDD
Filed under: Gaming
Video: Another look at PS3 Slim and its removable HDD originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 21 Aug 2009 08:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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PlayStation Network conveniently down for maintenance during Sony's press conference today

Posted: August 17th, 2009, 10:21pm PDT by Ross Miller

There's something very peculiar about Sony bringing down the PlayStation Network for "maintenance" today from noon until 2:00PM ET. Not only is that timeframe somewhat prime gaming hours for North America and Europe -- and arguably Asia, too -- but it also happens to coincide perfectly with the company's press conference at the gamescom expo in Cologne, Germany, the rumored site for the PS3 Slim's official debut and a price cut for the original. We've no doubt that Sony's got a handful of major announcements lined up for the event, revised console or no, and we wouldn't be surprised if the online store played into that somehow. Of course, the timing of the maintenance could all be some big coincidence, but if you ask us, the chances of that are pretty, well, slim. If we're really lucky, maybe Sir Howard Stringer will come out and explain that laughter-tracking patent.

[Via Joystiq]
Filed under: Gaming
PlayStation Network conveniently down for maintenance during Sony's press conference today originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 18 Aug 2009 00:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Sony Ericsson selects next president, appoints Howard Stringer chairman of the board

Posted: August 17th, 2009, 1:42am PDT by Chris Ziegler

It's out with the old, in with the new over at Sony Ericsson as it tries to revamp both its image and its lineup in the face of stiff competition, weak financials, and an unfocused platform strategy. President Hideki Komiyama (pictured left) intends to retire at the end of the year, and stepping up to fill his shoes will be the current head of Ericsson Silicon Valley, Bert Nordberg (right). To get the dude up to speed, he'll become co-president as of September 1 and take over sole control of the operation on October 15. Speaking of October 15, that's also the date that Sir Howard Stringer -- yes, the one and only chairman and CEO of Sony -- will take over the chairmanship of Sony Ericsson's executive board from outgoing Ericsson CEO Carl-Henric Svanberg. Whether this signals a power shift in the joint venture from Ericsson to Sony is unclear, but they've specifically mentioned in a press conference today to announce the moves that they need to "address [their] smartphone weakness" -- and yes, we'd agree. Do exactly that, Bert Nordberg.
Filed under: Cellphones, Handhelds
Sony Ericsson selects next president, appoints Howard Stringer chairman of the board originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 17 Aug 2009 03:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Sony to court iPhone devs, match App Store pricing?

Posted: August 14th, 2009, 10:54am PDT by Joseph L. Flatley

We've known for a while now that "snackable" content (inexpensive apps for instant gratification) was in the cards for the PSP, a fact that supports rumours reported by Pocket Gamer that handheld games for the PlayStation Network will be priced in the €1-5 range -- on par with Apple's App Store. In addition, it seems that the company has been "actively sourcing" iPhone developers to bring their existing titles to PSN. Who knows? Maybe the quick'n'easy approach to games (and someday apps?) will take some of the sting out of the PSPgo's "premium" price point. Either way, if all this is true it's turning out to be a red letter day for iPhone devs.

[Via gamesindustry.biz]
Filed under: Gaming, Handhelds
Sony to court iPhone devs, match App Store pricing? originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 14 Aug 2009 12:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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European retailer hacks €100 from PlayStation 3 in run-up to gamescom

Posted: August 14th, 2009, 7:44am PDT by Darren Murph

If you know anything about European retailer Fnac, you know it's not the go-to place for bargains. However, it's this very outlet that's now selling an 80GB PlayStation 3 bundle (which includes the console, a single controller and inFamous) for €100 less than its "everyday low price" as of yesterday. Of course, one major French retailer slashing the price on a system that's long overdue for a break isn't reason in and of itself reason to believe anything's on the horizon, but pair this up with everything else we've heard over the past few weeks, and we'd say all the vague omens are pointing to a leaner, cheaper and altogether more dashing PS3 on August 18th. In our magical fantasy land, anyway.

Update: Our friends at Engadget Spanish just let us know that there's been a price drop in Spain as well. Getting warmer...

[Thanks, Nelson]
Filed under: Gaming
European retailer hacks €100 from PlayStation 3 in run-up to gamescom originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 14 Aug 2009 09:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Palm Pre soap brings webOS to the tub

Posted: August 10th, 2009, 11:57pm PDT by Nilay Patel

Okay, so we sort of understand molding soap into familiar gadget shapes, but this bar of Pre soap utterly baffles by being scented "bourbon and Coke," which seems a bit self-defeating. Smell like a hobo with webOS for just $13 -- and don't worry, there's BlackBerry, iPhone, and Playstation soap on offer as well, presumably scented with Boone's Farm and OE 800.

[Via Pocket-Lint]
Filed under: Cellphones
Palm Pre soap brings webOS to the tub originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 11 Aug 2009 01:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Retailer claims PS3 Slim is headed for Europe next month, getting 100 Euro price drop

Posted: August 10th, 2009, 11:41am PDT by Paul Miller

More fuel to the spreading rumor of a gamescom debut for the PS3 Slim: French games site JVN got ahold of an "anonymous retailer" who spilled the supposed beans of an impending PS3 Slim launch in Europe. Word is that the console is supposed to land next month over there for €300 Euro -- €100 Euro less than it currently retails, a real sight for sore, price-gouged eyes -- and gamescom seems to be the safest bet for a debut. Other details are scarce, and some facts are downright confusing: the console is currently being listed by this retailer's wholesalers as a "limited edition," which naturally seems silly given the traditional PlayStation life cycle. Still, we like where this all is headed.

[Via Joystiq]
Filed under: Gaming
Retailer claims PS3 Slim is headed for Europe next month, getting 100 Euro price drop originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 10 Aug 2009 13:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Logitec makes routers fashionable again with ultraslim LAN-W300N/R

Posted: August 7th, 2009, 6:38am PDT by Darren Murph

It's part PS2 Slim, part AspireRevo. And according to Logitec, the LAN-W300N/R is the company's thinnest 802.11n router ever. Measuring just 7 millimeters thick at its thinnest and 24 millimeters thin at its thickest, this ultra-glossy wireless router packs a pair of inbuilt antennas, four LAN ports, a WAN socket and an AC input. Beyond that, the device seems relatively unmoving, with a ¥9,100 ($95) price tag and a late August release over in Japan.

[Via Akihabara News]
Gallery: Logitec makes routers fashionable again with ultraslim LAN-W300N/R
Filed under: Networking
Logitec makes routers fashionable again with ultraslim LAN-W300N/R originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 07 Aug 2009 08:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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