The inaugural International Academy of Web Television Awards – essentially the Emmys for web content – announced its first ever winners at a gala event at CES; with Red vs Blue and TWiT’s Tech News Today scoring awards.

Tech News Today won Best News Web Series, while Microsoft-supported The Guild and Red vs Blue won Best Comedy and Best Animated Web Series. In addition, The Guild won Best Writing (Comedy), Best Directing, Best Website Design and Best Female Performance for Felicia Day.

The Guild won the most awards with 4 wins, with The Mercury Men, RCVR and Dragon Age: Redemption – the latter two produced by Machinima.com – won three awards.

Blip.tv won the Best Distribution Platform award, beating Sony’s Crackle, DailyMotion, Hulu and Joost. You can watch the full webcast and all the winners below.

Best Comedy Web Series: The Guild

Best Drama Web Series: RCVR/Web Series

Best Hosted Taped Web Series: The Web.Files

Best Hosted Live Web Series: What’s Trending with Shira Lazar

Best Animated Web Series: Red vs. Blue

Best Documentary Web Series: White Collar Brawler

Best Variety Web Series: Kids React

Best News Web Series: Tech News Today

Best Educational Web Series: DadLabs

Best Writing (Comedy): Felicia Day, The Guild

Best Writing (Drama): Susan Miller & Tina Cesa Ward, Anyone But Me

Best Writing (Non-Fiction): Rudy Jahchan, A Comicbook Orange

Best Directing (Comedy): Sean Becker, The Guild

Best Directing (Drama): Chris Preksta, The Mercury Men

Best Directing (Non-Fiction): Brett Register, What’s Trending with Shira Lazar

Best Female Performance (Comedy): Felicia Day (Codex), The Guild

Best Female Performance (Drama): Rachael Hip-Flores (Vivian McMillan), Anyone But Me

Best Male Performance (Comedy): Jeff Lewis (Stan), The Jeff Lewis 5-Minute Comedy Hour

Best Male Performance (Drama): Daniel Bonjour (Luke Weber), RCVR/Web Series

Best Host (Taped): Kristyn Burtt, The Web.Files

Best Host (Live): Shira Lazar, What’s Trending with Shira Lazar

Best Cinematography: Joost van Starrenburg, RCVR/Web Series

Best Design: Greg Aronowitz, Dragon Age: Redemption

Best Costume Design: Shawna Trpcic, Dragon Age: Redemption

Best Makeup/Special Effects: Greg Aronowitz and Kimberly Graczyk, Dragon Age: Redemption

Best Visual Effects: Chris Preksta, The Mercury Men

Best Editing: Tony E. Valenzuela, BlackBoxTV: The Series

Best Original Music: Rob Gokee, Night of the Zombie King

Best Supplemental Content: The Mercury Men

Best Interactive/Social Media Experience: What’s Trending with Shira Lazar

Best Web Site Design: The Guild

Best Distribution Platform: Blip.tv

A new router was showed off by ASUS at this year’s CES. Promising dual-band support with 450Mbps on 2.4GHz and 5GHz, it also claims to be optimised for multiplayer game play, 3D HD video streaming and file sharing. Full gallery after the jump.

Sony may have launched a 4K projector, but JVC can top the craziness over 4K – which is four times the resolution of HD. The company has announced that it will be releasing the world’s first handheld 4K camcorder – the GY-HMQ10. Yes, they have announced a camcorder for it.

The camcorder takes footage at 24p, 50p or 60p; and uses its exclusive Falconbird LSI processing where it can output images to a monitor or projector with no lag. It will also encode the footage using H.264 at a bitrate of 144Mbps. The camera records it on an SD card – and you can fit about two hours worth of 4K footage.

The lens includes 10x optical zoom, and is equipped with manual controls for audio, focus, shutter, colour and white balance. It also has four HDMI terminals – which can all output in 4K resolution.

It launches today, with shippings starting in March. It will have a pricetag of US$4,995. Press release below.

JVC Unveils World’s First Handheld 4K Camcorder

GY-HMQ10 Records Four Times Resolution of 1080p to SDHC/SDXC Media Cards

WAYNE, N.J., Jan. 11, 2012 /PRNewswire/ — JVC Professional Products Company, a division of JVC Americas Corp., today announced the GY-HMQ10, the world’s first handheld 4K camcorder, which captures, records, and plays video images at four times the resolution of high definition television. Powered by JVC’s Falconbrid large-scale integration (LSI) chip for high-speed signal processing and a 1/2-inch CMOS imager with 8.3 million active pixels, it delivers real-time 3840×2160 footage at 24p, 50p, or 60p.

“We’re witnessing the birth of what is destined to become a broad market for full 4K end-to-end production,” said Edgar Shane, general manager of engineering. “The GY-HMQ10 is a breakthrough product that opens up 4K imaging to users who previously wouldn’t have considered it.”

High resolution 4K still picture imaging has been around for several years in DSLR cameras. Motion video capture with these cameras has always been done at a lower video resolution because of lack of processing power. Likewise, high end digital motion picture cameras may capture 4K images, but often provide a raw data output to an external storage array for later processing—again due to lack of processing power in the camera. There just hasn’t been the ability to capture, process, display and record full 4K images in real time until now.

JVC’s exclusive Falconbrid LSI processing takes raw image data from the camera’s CMOS device and dematrixes (deBayers) it in real time. Unlike many high end 4K cameras, the GY-HMQ10 is able to output 4K images to a monitor or projection system in real time with virtually no latency. This capability opens up applications in cinematography, medical microscopy, telepresence, specialized observation / surveillance, and live wide-view event coverage.

Using MPEG-4 technology and a variable bit rate H.264 codec operating at up to 144 Mbps, the GY-HMQ10 records up to two hours of 4K video to economical SDHC or SDXC memory cards.

In addition to 4K imaging, the GY-HMQ10 also captures and records astonishing 1080i or 1080/60p full HD, with extraordinary detail provided by its 8.3 megapixel imager and superior lens. HD is recorded on a single memory card in a format compatible with most editing systems. This combination of superb 4K and HD imaging was requested by attendees of JVC’s 4K forums, conducted throughout North America last year, and is unique in the camera industry.

Another feature requested by forum attendees was the ability to crop an HD image from a 4K frame. This can be accomplished in post production, or in real time during camera playback. The “trimming” feature makes HD cropping easy using the camera’s touch panel LCD monitor.

Similar in size to JVC’s popular GY-HM150 ProHD camcorder, the GY-HMQ10 includes a build-in F2.8 10x zoom lens with optical image stabilizer, as well as a color viewfinder and 3.5-inch touch LCD monitor with a new, intuitive user interface. The GY-HMQ10 is built in a familiar, comfortable and lightweight form factor for hours of field production with minimum fatigue.

The GY-HMQ10 is equipped with manual level controls for audio, with audio metering in the LCD and viewfinder displays. A microphone holder and two balanced XLR connectors with phantom power are located on the handle. The camera is equipped with a built-in stereo mic for ambient sound pickup.

Other features include JVC’s patented Focus Assist, as well as manual and auto control of focus, iris, gain, shutter, gamma, color matrix, and white balance. Plus, the camera has the unusual capability of live 4K output via four HDMI terminals.

“Historically, JVC has been a leader in camcorder and display technology, and the GY-HMQ10 is our latest breakthrough,” added Shane. “It’s part of a larger move at JVC to bring 4K technology to a wide range of customers.” In September 2011, JVC introduced an affordable line of 4K projectors to the home theater market. The company’s high-end 4K projectors are widely used in commercial flight simulators and planetariums. “4K is the logical step beyond HD,” said Shane. “And JVC is uniquely positioned to lead the industry in this new direction.”

JVC’s innovative approach to professional 4K will be unveiled in a series of industry announcements beginning at CES and continuing throughout 2012.

At a retail selling price of $4,995, the GY-HMQ10 launches today, with market deliveries beginning in March, 2012.

Seagate has used CES to show off its GoFlex Satellite mobile wireless storage device, which lets you stream movies and other files to any device wirelessly. This means, in effect, you can watch a HD movie from your iPad if you carry this around with you.

Seagate has partnered up with Verizon Wireless to show off a 4G LTE version of this, so you can access this via a celluar network rather than standard Wi-Fi. Gallery is below.

And Seagate has used this to announce a brand new Thunderbolt adapter for its GoFlex and GoFlex Desk external hard drives. This will let these drives use the new technology that is slowly gaining traction thanks to its addition on Apple computers. The GoFlex Thunderbolt adapter will be out in Q1, while the GoFlex Desk adapter will be out in the second half of the year.

Gallery is below.

Lenovo’s IdeaPad YOGA has been unveiled at this year’s CES and it promises to merge the powerful ultrabook design with a 13.3-inch tablet. It features a unique 360-degree flip-and-fold design, allowing it to be a notebook, tablet, stand and a tent with a single fold.

The IdeaPad YOGA runs on an Intel processor and on Windows 8, supports 8GB of RAM and a 256GB SSD. It also has an eight-hour battery life.

It will be out in the second half of the year with an estimated price of US$1199. Australian availability has not been announced – possibly in the first half of next year. Full press release is below.

LAS VEGAS–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Lenovo (HKSE: 0992) (Pink Sheets: LNVGY) today announced IdeaPad YOGA, the industry’s first multi-mode notebook with a 360 degree flip-and-fold design. Combining the tablet’s ease-of-use with the ultrabook’s functionality, IdeaPad YOGA gives consumers four-in-one personal computing, with four separate usage modes in one PC. Lenovo also announced today its new IdeaCentre A720, the slimmest 27-inch all-in-one (AIO) PC in the industry.

“The IdeaPad YOGA multi-mode notebook redefines the convergence and convertible user experience by bringing together the best of traditional PCs, with the best of tablets and more.”

IdeaPad YOGA is the union of a stylish, powerful ultrabook and a portable 13.3” multi-touch tablet. YOGA’s patented dual-hinge design is engineered to enable content consumption and creation spanning four intuitive usage positions … notebook, tablet, stand, and tent …in one computer, while offering higher durability¹ and stability than conventional convertible form factors.

Not to be outdone, the IdeaCentre A720 all-in-one features a pioneering 27-inch screen that allows a more widely adjustable angle from — -5^o to 90^o. An innovative screen hinge allows for a more comfortable use in any position and combines with a frameless display that supports 10-point multi-touch capabilities for a greatly enhanced multi-user experience.

“It is clear to us that consumers want their four screens: mobile devices, tablets, notebooks and smart TVs and they want them to work together seamlessly, anytime, anywhere. Whether a notebook that bends and folds, or an all-in-one that puts the ‘wide’ into wide-angle, today’s announcements reflect our focus on delivering the inspirational innovations that consumers are looking for,” said Yang Yuanqing, Chairman and CEO, Lenovo. “The IdeaPad YOGA multi-mode notebook redefines the convergence and convertible user experience by bringing together the best of traditional PCs, with the best of tablets and more.”

IdeaPad YOGA Notebook: Four Experience Modes to Create and Consume

Created for the convergence of professional and personal lifestyles, the IdeaPad YOGA multi-mode notebook introduces an intuitive design that optimizes the user experience of both an ultrabook and tablet across four different usage modes – notebook, tablet, stand and tent. Compared with conventional convertible form factors, YOGA’s patented 360 degree dual- hinge flip design is more stable and durable^,1 and enables an overall thinner and lighter hardware design. YOGA is the industry’s thinnest convertible ultrabook measuring 0.67” (16.9mm) thin at 3.1 lbs (1.47kg). Powered by the Intel Core Processor family with a Windows 8 operating system, YOGA supports eight hours of battery life with up to 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD. As a full-size notebook, YOGA’s svelte design includes small but meaningful details such as soft touch rubber paint on the exterior for strong grip, a leather cover on the palm rest, and side buttons designed for easier access for all usage modes.

As a multi-mode notebook, IdeaPad YOGA delivers a comfortable and natural user interaction when using it in any position. To enjoy multi-player touch-based gaming and social media on-the-go, the user simply folds back YOGA’s screen for a portable 13.1“ HD+ (1600 x 900) tablet with 10-point capacitive touch. For entertainment, reading, and web browsing, users can flip the YOGA’s screen panel into a convenient stand or tent mode that saves space and brings the screen closer to the user. YOGA’s versatile multi-mode form factor strikes an ideal balance between creating and consuming content, while at the same time, offering consumers an optimal experience of a notebook and tablet in a single device.

IdeaCentre A720 All-in-One: Taking Touch Experience in the Home to the Next Level

As the industry’s slimmest 27” all-in-one and sporting a sleek metal exterior, the IdeaCentre A720 measures less than an inch (24.5mm)² and combines a frameless display supporting 10-point multi-touch. The A720 continues Lenovo’s heritage of svelte designs for the AIO by smartly positioning the PC at the base on the unit. Improving AIO design even further, the A720 is engineered to optimize the touch experience in the ‘digital’ home. The A720’s widely adjustable hinge allows the screen to be pulled towards the user at an angle of -5^o and folded back to an angle of up to 90^o, making touch applications more comfortable over longer periods in any position.

To optimize the touch experience on the AIO, the A720’s 10-point multi-touch display supports multi-user scenarios with greater accuracy. Powered by the Intel Core Processor family and NVIDIA^® GeForce^® graphics with up to 1TB HDD and 64 GB SSD storage, the A720 delivers an impressive home multimedia experience on a frameless high definition 16:9 wide-screen. With integrated entertainment features, such as room-shaking Dolby Home Theatre V4 audio, Lenovo High-Sense (720p HD) Webcam, and Lenovo IdeaTouch (a suite of touch-optimized applications and games), the A720 is an ultra stylish and fun addition for the modern home entertainment center.

Pricing and Availability³

The IdeaPad YOGA multimode notebook will be available in the second half of 2012 with an estimated starting retail price of $1,199. The IdeaCentre A720 all-in-one will be available in the first half of 2012 with an estimated starting retail price of $1,299.

¹ Qualified for 25K ~ 30K times cycle testing

² Measured at thickest point.

³ Price and availability vary by region.

Razer has announced another gaming mouse. Called the Naga Hex, it features six large thumb buttons on the side that are designed to have shortcuts for your action-RPG and Multiplayer Online Battle Arena games (whatever that is),

It also includes its Synapse 2.0 service, meaning that your custom mouse settings and profiles will be saved to their cloud server. Therefore, plugging this on another computer will mean that you will not lose any shortcuts or other customisations that you had on your previous computer.

It will ship at the end of January from its website, with pre-orders starting now. Otherwise, worldwide store availability will be in March. Retail price is US$79.99. Gallery and press release below.

PERFECT YOUR LAST HITS WITH RAZER NAGA HEX GAMING MOUSE

Razer releases all-new gaming mouse with six thumb buttons designed for MOBA, action-RPG and hack and slash games pwnage

Consumer Electronics Show, Las Vegas, Nevada – January 10, 2012 – (Virtual Press Office) – Razer, the world leader in high performance gaming hardware, is taking your intense arena battling and frenzied hack and slash gaming to the next level with the Razer Naga Hex MOBA/action-RPG gaming mouse. Inspired by the award-winning Razer Naga MMO gaming mouse’s 12-button thumb grid, the Razer Naga Hex features six large thumb buttons optimized for the user interfaces found in action-RPG and MOBA games.

Excitement in the world of gaming is heating up with the rise of the Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA) genre, with games like the critically acclaimed League of Legends. Games that throw champions into a ring to arm themselves, level up, and duke it out against one another while defending massive super structures.

Six mechanical buttons optimized for MOBA/action-RPGs

Enter the Razer Naga Hex, designed with six mechanical buttons to specifically bind the spells, abilities, items, and other invaluable commands in MOBA games like League of Legends for faster and easier actuation. With a mechanical key infrastructure that requires less force to actuate, you gain the edge in speed over enemies, attacking before they can react. The Razer Naga Hex is also perfect for obsessive clicking in hack and slash games.

High performance buttons up to 250 clicks a minute

Since both the RPG and MOBA game genres require intensive clicking, the Razer Naga Hex’s buttons are constructed with special switches for a performance of up to 250 clicks per minute – perfect for pro-gamers with lightning fast reflexes. Don’t worry about hyper-clicking though, as the Razer Naga Hex utilizes switches that are good for up to a whopping 10 million clicks.

Ergonomic shape and interchangeable thumb rests

The Razer Naga Hex is designed with an ergonomic curvature that fits your hand comfortably. The placement of the six thumb buttons has also been perfected over countless design reiterations, and validated by MOBA pro-gamers to ensure you’re getting the best game control and grip. 3 interchangeable thumb rests of different heights are included so you get the best comfort and grip that suits you. This is especially important for reducing strain during lengthy gaming sessions at home or at highly competitive tournaments.

Synapse 2.0 enabled

The Razer Naga Hex will also be Razer Synapse 2.0 enabled – this means the mouse is installed with the world’s first cloud-based storage software that automatically saves all user custom mouse settings and profiles to a cloud server. These settings can then be accessed from any computer, with any Razer Naga Hex, ensuring that the mouse is ready for use instantly, and setup just the way you like it.

“I love RPG and MOBA games. And I believe that having the right abilities available is the difference between slaying enemies and winning, or dying a miserable death and having your character wiped in hardcore mode,” said Robert ‘RazerGuy’ Krakoff, President, Razer USA. “That’s why we designed the Razer Naga Hex – we believe that the six mechanical thumb buttons are going to help gamers stay ahead of the competition with the best ergonomic control.”

About the Razer Naga Hex Gaming Mouse

The Razer Naga Hex is perfectly suited for pro-gamers and fans of the MOBA/action-RPG game genres. It is primed with six mechanical thumb buttons for the exact number of controls necessary to suit the user interfaces of those games. Bind your skill-bar or inventory grid to the six buttons for faster, more comfortably efficient access to your full range of powers as you take the competition down.

Price: $79.99

Availability
Razerzone.com : 10 January Pre-orders open, Ship End January
Worldwide : In stores March 2012

Product features:

• 6 MOBA/action-RPG optimized mechanical thumb buttons
• 11 total programmable buttons
• Special switches in buttons for up to 250 clicks per minute
• 10 million click life cycle
• Ergonomic curved design
• Razer Synapse 2.0
• 5600dpi Razer Precision 3.5G Laser Sensor
• 1000Hz Ultrapolling/1ms response time
• Approximate Size : 116mm/4.57″ (Length) x 78mm/3.07″ (Width) x 42mm/1.65″ (Height)
• Approximate Weight: 134g/0.30lbs

Samsung BD-ES6000 Compact Blu-ray player

Samsung has announced two new Blu-Ray players as part of its “Smart Blu-Ray” line, which promises features such as a full web browser and a new way of turning your personal DVD collection into digital content that can be streamed on many devices such as your laptop and your phone.

Samsung’s line-up includes the BD-ES6000 and the BD-E65000. The ES-6000 is a compact player that also packs in the latest video technology, and is suitable for those finding little room to place a normal-sized player. A gallery of the player can be seen below.

Samsung BD-E6500 3D Blu-ray with Dual HDMI Inputs and built-in WiFi

The E6500, however, is a more stylish Blu-Ray player that also includes 3D support. It includes 2 HDMI inputs, so another equipment that uses HDMI – such as a game console – can be connected to the TV without sacrificing another HDMI port. In addition, as like other 3D Blu-Ray players from Samsung, it can convert non-HD material to full 1080p HD.

The big attraction for both is that you can now convert your DVD into a digital file that can be streamed on any device at any time, even in multiple locations. This feature, “Disc to Digital” lets users create the digital file and place it under their “UltraViolet” collection – developed by Flixster and Roxi. Samsung users can watch the UltraViolet version on their TVs via the Flixster app.

I should also point out that they will use their own file format and is laced with DRM. You will need to use an UltraViolet app to watch it – such as Flixster’s own for Samsung’s Smart TV. In addition, this is only available in the US – so don’t expect it any time soon in Australia.

No pricing or availability has been announced.

Intel has now officially taking a stance in the mobile processor race with agreements with Motorola and Lenovo to use their new Medfield – now known as Atom Z2460 – rather than NVIDIA’s Tegra, Qualcomm’s Snapdragon and ARM’s processors.

The deal will see Lenovo and Motorola use these for their smartphones and tablets. While Motorola has not announced new phones using Medfield – possibly a sign that it will announce them in February during Mobile World Congress – Lenovo has announced the Lenovo K800 smartphone, running on Android.

“Our efforts with Lenovo and Motorola Mobility will help to establish Intel processors in smartphones and provide a solid foundation from which to build in 2012 and into the future,” Intel’s President and CEO Paul Otellini said in a statement.

The K800 will be using LeOS and available for China.

The HD 700′s are higher end headphones which has a headlining feature of its vented magnet system. Which manages the air flow to prevent unwanted resonance or “turbulence”. The headphones shouldn’t be used with any old device as Sennheiser recommends you use a amplifier as any old device doesn’t provide power. The Verge has said they prefer the HD 25′s as they provide more “oomph”.

Source: The Verge 

Maybe the Lady Gaga alliance didn’t work out after all. Polaroid has now announced something a bit more technological with the Polaroid “Smart Camera” SC1630. You may be wondering, why is it smart? Well, it runs Android.

The SC1630 also features a 16-megapixel camera with 3X optical zoom, a 3.2-inch touchscreen display and Wi-Fi so you can quickly upload that photo from the camera to a social network or cloud storage. The camera can also record HD video, and because of Android, can find apps to edit on the go since it does support the Andorid Market.

It will be coming out in 2012, but no international availability or price has been confirmed by Polaroid. Full press release below.

POLAROID ANNOUNCES THE SC1630 SMART CAMERA POWERED BY ANDROID™

Fusing the Feature Set of a High-End Digital Camera with the Power of Android*, the Polaroid SC1630 Makes Snapping and Sharing High Definition Digital Images an Instant Experience  

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 10, 2012 – Polaroid today announced that capturing and sharing high-end digital images is now seamless with the Polaroid SC1630, an Android powered smart camera. The Polaroid SC1630 Smart Camera features a high definition 16 megapixel camera with built in 3X optical zoom, touch screen display and Wi-Fi, making uploads to social networks as easy as the touch of a button. Merging the optics of a digital still and video camera with the limitless power of the Android platform, the Polaroid SC1630 Smart Camera evolves the process of clicking, editing, uploading and tagging to an instant experience on one device.

With the Polaroid SC1630 Smart Camera powered by Android you will no longer need to choose between your smart phone and your point and shoot camera because it offers the best of both worlds. Delivering everything expected from a digital camera but powered by Android, the Polaroid SC1630 Smart Camera surprisingly packs all the features needed to conveniently capture, connect and instantly share beautiful HD digital images and video into one device, weighing a mere five ounces.

An ultra-portable, two-in-one instant sharing powerhouse, the Polaroid SC1630 Smart Camera leaves even the most powerful camera phones in the dust by combining an advanced imaging feature set with an unmatchable Android powered mobile platform:

• Capture Like the Pros: Life’s quickest moments are no longer at risk to becoming blurry images from a basic camera phone. Built on a 16 megapixel CCD senor, the Polaroid SC1630 Smart Camera treats images to a 3X optical zoom – a feature not found in most mobile phones. Choose from 18 scene modes and then click and view crystal clear images – captured at 36mm or full 108mm magnification – on the Polaroid SC1630 Smart Camera’s 3.2’’ widescreen display.
• Enhance Your Moments With Smart Features: The Polaroid SC1630 Smart Camera powered by Android takes the work out of being behind the lens with automatic face and smile detection. Also, gone are the days when digital images that never connected with a USB cord went unorganized and forgotten. The Smart Album feature of the Polaroid SC1630 Smart Camera automatically organizes photos by date, location and people. Plus, geo-tagging features can add longitude and latitude coordinates to photos.
• Edit, Share and Save: Now there is no reason to leave the party – everything needed to edit, save and upload can be done anywhere right on the Polaroid SC1630 Smart Camera. On-board editing features include cropping, red-eye removal, resizing and color correction. Backed by the power of Android, the Polaroid SC1630 Smart Camera uploads images to social networks with the touch of one button and can hold up to 32GB of memory via a microSD card.
• Instantly Connect to the World: The Polaroid SC1630 Smart Camera’s Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and optional cellular data connections empower digital images to be shared from anywhere in a snap.
• Get Productive: Need to check-in on where friends are gathering, get directions or make the next move in your favorite game? Backed by the power of Android, the Polaroid SC1630 Smart Camera supports Google’s Android Market, making it truly like no other camera available today. Now you can snap, share and link up with more than 400,000 apps.

“Polaroid has helped the world bring stories to life through photographs for the past 75 years,” said Scott W. Hardy, President, Polaroid. “The newest member of the Polaroid family, the Polaroid SC1630 Smart Camera unites the beauty of high-end digital images with powerful Android connectivity features. The result is an instant experience of click, capture and share that enables social networks to see and experience the moment as if they were there.”

Designed to be just as fashionable as it is portable, the simple, clean lines and straight forward interface of the Polaroid SC1630 Smart Camera makes capturing and sharing effortless. Loaded with features that enable easy capture, connecting and sharing on the fly, the rechargeable battery can last all day on a full charge.

The Polaroid SC1630 Smart Camera powered by Android can be viewed at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in the Las Vegas Convention Center’s Central Hall (booth #13613) from January 10 – 13, 2012.  High-res images of the Polaroid SC1630 Smart Camera can be found at http://www.tradeshownews.com/events/2012-International-CES/Polaroid/ .

The Polaroid SC1630 Smart Camera will be available in 2012.  Price is TBD.

Otherwise it has got access to Samsung Smart Hub apps. A release date and price is TBA, but I’d expect it to come soon.

Remember the AR.Drone? Well, its manufacturer, Parrot, has announced that it will be getting an upgrade. The new version features a brand new look and, now, can record video in 720p HD resolution.

The quadacopter design hasn’t received much change – it stil features the same 3-axis accelerometer, gyroscope, and magnetometer; and the placement of the four blades. However, there is now a pressure sensor that gives it some stability in mid-air.

There is also a new version of the app to control it, the AR.FreeFlight 2.0, which lets you update the software, quick access to an overview and tutorials on how to use it, and upload the video to YouTube for everyone to see. In addition, this will now be available for both the iOS App Store and the Android Market.

Manoeuvring the quadacopter, however, is still the same. Use the two on-screen controls and your body to move it. Lean forward to move it forward, lean back to move it back, and leaning left and right will do the same.

The United States will see this product in stores in Q2 this year for US$299. Australian availability, however, is unknown (could be sometime in November/December like the previous version)

Now we all know that our phones are more powerful than a 10 year old desktop, though we aren’t really using this processing power for anything other than answering calls, texts, tweeting and checking Facebook. We have seen initiatives like the Raspberry Pi use this phone hardware for a cheap, low power desktop though nothing that really combines both the phone and desktop experience into one. Wouldn’t it be nice if you could walk into work, and not have to look at all the emails you have just read on your commute.

This is where Webtops come in. Except now Motorola have now decided to incorporate Webtop software into their latest phones. This enables users of those phones to not only use their phones for normal day to day mobile activities but also to plug in their phone to an dock/external screen and use it as a Webtop.

While using these phones as Webtops, you are able to use what Motorola call is the “complete Firefox” for “lightning fast” web browsing as well as a collection of web based Webtop apps. These apps include the likes of Google Docs, Citrix and Gmail. Motorola also sell docks for their Webtop enabled phones, but they don’t come cheap. With the Motorola Atrix dock coming in at $499 US, one would ask why not just buy a netbook or one of the cheap notebooks (of which there are a plethora to chose from).

Personally, I think this idea might take off if more phones start to support it. This could be the future of portable personal computing as most people have their phones on them everywhere they go. Hopefully the prices come down soon making this a more viable solution.

After a recent partnership with Ultraviolet, a company which can create digital copies of Blu-Ray and DVD movies that have the software, Samsung has announced a Blu-Ray player that supports it, the BD-ES6000.

So after putting in an Ultraviolet-supporting disc, the digital copy will be added, via Wi-Fi, to the users Ultraviolet account. DVD to digital HD copies cost a small extra price, but it’s basically a more advanced and streamlined version of the 2-pack movies on sale now in stores which have a Blu-Ray or DVD and Digital copy.

Other differences include the small form-factor of the BD-ES6000, but apart from that it’s a regular player with 3D, Wi-Fi and DLNA support. It also has iOS and Android remotes.

The Powerline 500 Nano also has NETGEAR’s unique “Pick-a-Plug” function which automatically tests the connection at any power point and displays the results with coloured LED lights to ensure that users can pick the best power point for the highest possible network connection.

The Powerline 500 Nano will be available Q1 2012 for $119.95 worldwide.

Powerline 500 Nano

With best-in-class performance and reliability, NETGEAR’s Powerline 500 Nano converts any electrical outlet in your house into a high speed network connection, instantly. It offers easy, plug-and-play setup and top speeds, all in the smallest form factor available today. The Powerline 500 Nano is perfect for connecting a single device such as game console, Blu-ray™ player, Smart TV, HD set-top box, network DVR, PC, and other devices to the home network router and the Internet. Gamers particularly benefit from Powerline technology because of its exceptionally low latency.

NETGEAR’s Powerline 500 Nano delivers speeds up to 500 Mbps, which easily accommodates HD and 3D HD video streaming, multimedia, multiplayer gaming and other bandwidth intensive tasks. With NETGEAR’s unique “Pick-a-Plug” function, the Powerline 500 Nano automatically tests the connection at any electrical outlet and displays the results in the form of color coded LED lights to ensure that users can pick a specific electrical outlet in order to ensure the highest possible performance.

Pricing and Availability
NETGEAR Powerline 500 Nano will be available in Q1 2012 for $119.99. The NETGEAR N900 Video and Gaming 4-Port WiFi Adapter will be available in the summer of 2012 for $79.99. Both products will also be available worldwide from major retailers in stores and online.

More information
To learn more about NETGEAR’s Powerline 500 Nano and N900 Video and Gaming 4-Port WiFi Adapter or the, please visit http://www.netgear.com/N500 and http://www.netgear.com/N900.

Razer, known for their other concept we covered from last year’s CES, has unveiled another concept for gaming. Dubbed “Project Fiona”, this concept lets you play any PC game anywhere in a lightweight and small form factor – the tablet.

They worked with Intel and is using Intel’s third-generation Core i7 processor, making it more “akin to a fully functioning PC” despite the smaller form factor. In addition, any PC games running on this concept will work without any modification. The concept utilises dual game controllers with ultra-precise analog sticks; accelerometers and the multi-touch screen to let you play the game – with any future game able to take advantage of the latter two.

Razer, however, is also trying to work on an actual product, to be shipping in Q4 of this year with a price tag of under US$1,000. Developer units will be sent soon to interested parties. Press release and gallery below.

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 10, 2012 /PRNewswire/ — Consumer Electronics Show – Razer™, the world leader in high performance gaming hardware, is proud to announce their newest gaming concept design – the Project Fiona PC Gaming Tablet. Unlike other tablets designed for general use and casual gaming, Project Fiona is a tablet concept designed to play the most popular PC games of today with an intuitive control setup for a phenomenal on-the-go gaming experience.

Powered by Intel® Core™ i7

Razer worked closely with Intel to harness the power of its third generation Intel® Core™ i7 processor in Project Fiona. As a result, Razer’s tablet is more akin to a fully functioning PC; and yet in a form factor and platform highly familiar to everybody.

Instead of relying on developers to work on a suite of brand new applications for Project Fiona, many PC games today run natively on the tablet concept without the need to be ported, optimized, or developed from scratch.

Moreover, Project Fiona will feature one of the most powerful processors integrated in a tablet form factor. Instead of the casual and mobile-only games that run on under-powered tablets, Project Fiona will run full-fledged PC games that have never run on a tablet form factor before until today.

“Project Fiona’s combination of high performance Intel-based gaming hardware and innovative tablet design is specifically focused for PC gamers. It will unleash the PC gamer to play their existing and future high-end games in one of the most exciting new form factors – a tablet,” said Brad Graff, Director of Partner Marketing, Netbook & Tablet Group, Intel.

PC Gaming User Interface Designed For a Tablet Form Factor

Razer’s multi-award winning user interface and ergonomics team have developed an all-new hybrid user interface scheme for Project Fiona. Featuring integrated dual game controllers with ultra-precise analog sticks, Project Fiona runs gamepad-enabled PC games right out of the box.

Along with the game controllers, Project Fiona is also designed with ultra-precise accelerometers and a highly sensitive multi-touch screen. This provides game developers with new game experiential opportunities to develop around the hybrid game control experience offered by Project Fiona. It also ensures current-generation PC games run on the tablet concept, as well as any existing games optimized for the touchscreen interface of a tablet.

Future games developed for Fiona are expected to take advantage of not just the integrated gamepad controls but also integrate core game functionality controls for the touchscreen and accelerometer-based controls.

“While multi-touch screens have become the de facto user interface for tablets, they are not the right interface for serious PC gaming,” said Min-Liang Tan, CEO, Razer. “The user interface we have designed for Project Fiona allows all existing PC games to be played right out of the box and also provides game developers new opportunities as they develop next-gen games on a highly-intuitive platform. Both developers and gamers are going to love the new user interface that combines the best of a gamepad, multi-touch screen and accelerometers for an all-new gaming experience on-the-go.”

The Most Immersive Gaming Experience on a Tablet

To further intensify the gaming experience with Project Fiona, Razer’s integrated dual controllers deliver full force feedback, so every explosion or gun recoil can be felt in the gamer’s hands.

THX® Ltd., which works with many of the world’s most innovative audio and video home entertainment manufacturers, agrees that the tablet adds tremendous flexibility to a gamer’s lifestyle. “Video games, music and entertainment that previously were mainly enjoyed within the home can now be enjoyed anywhere through tablets such as the Razer Concept PC Gaming Tablet,” said Chris Golson, Senior Director, Business Development, THX.

Developer units of the Project Fiona Concept PC Gaming Tablet will be made available soon. Interested parties should email developer@razerzone.com for more information. Project Fiona will be on display at Razer’s booth in South Hall 3, #31473.

About the Project Fiona Concept PC Gaming Tablet

Project Fiona is the only tablet in the world designed for PC gaming.

Price: Estimated below USD $1,000

Availability: Actual product shipping Q4 2012

For more information about the Project Fiona Concept PC Gaming Tablet, please visit www.razerzone.com/projectfiona

Sony Ericsson – soon to be renamed as Sony Mobile – have announced two brand new smartphones at this year’s CES. The Xperia S and the Xperia ion both feature high resolution displays among other hardware improvements.

The Xperia S, part of its new Xperia NXT series, features a 4.3-inch display, a 1.5GHz dual core processor and 32GB of storage. It also features two cameras – a 12-megapixel rear camera capable of recording 1080p and a front-facing 1.3-megapixel camera capable of recording 720p footage; NFC support and runs on Android 2.3 Gingerbread. It will be upgradable to Ice Cream Sandwich in Q2, and will hit globally this quarter.

The Xperia ion is the first LTE phone from Sony and has a 4.6-inch display and a 12-megapixel rear camera. The front-facing camera also (apparently) can record HD videos. It runs Android 2.3 on a 1.5GHz dual core processor, and will have 16GB of storage on board. It appears to be US-only and will be on AT&T in Q2.

Another two phones were also announced by Sony Ericsson only for the Japanese market. The Xperia arco HD is a follow-up to the Xperia arco in Japan, with more “Japan-specific features” like infrared data exchange and mobile TV; and the Xperia NX, which is a Japanese version of the Xperia S, again with its own features.

Both will be out in Japan in the autumn.

Dell has also gotten onto the Ultrabook craze. It has announced the XPS 13, touting it as the “most compact 13.3-inch Ultrabook” because of its near-frameless display and has the same size as an 11-inch laptop.

The XPS 13 features either a Core i5 or i7 processor and Intel’s HD 3000 integrated graphics, 4GB of DDR3 RAM and a 1.3 megapixel camera. The 13.3-inch display is a WLED 720p screen that is protected with Gorilla Glass. It also comes in 128GB or 256GB SSD storage options, and 100GB of cloud storage with Dell DataSafe at no additional cost.

And if that isn’t enough, Dell is also including a 12-month subscription to Skype Premium for free.

The laptop is heading to the US in February with a price tag of US$999 with the Core i5 model. Worldwide availability will start in March, launching initially in selected countries.

UPDATE [3:47PM]: Dell Australia has confirmed that the product will be coming to Australia and New Zealand in March. No word on pricing however.

Press release and gallery below.

LAS VEGAS–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Dell today unveiled its ultraportable XPS 13 laptop, the most compact 13.3-inch Ultrabook featuring an edge-to-edge glass, near “frameless” display, all-day battery life, and the latest innovative technology for a superb overall user experience. Starting at 2.99 lbs.ⁱⁱ, and less than a quarter-inch at its thinnest point, the XPS 13 combines performance-oriented thoughtful design with the latest Intel technology, such as Rapid Start and Smart Connectⁱ, to enable users to be productive, connected and responsive anywhere.

The latest and most mobile laptop in Dell’s portfolio, the XPS 13 is part of Dell’s high-end XPS brand, which is now 20 percent of Dell’s total consumer laptop business. Revenue for XPS laptops has increased 207 percent over last year when the company re-launched the brand to better meet the needs of today’s mobile professionals.

The XPS 13 delivers second-generation Intel Core i5 or i7 processors, Intel HD 3000 graphics and a bright high definition WLED 300-nit display for outstanding viewing experiences, packaged in an elegantly-designed, ultraportable laptop. For users who store movies, music and photos, the XPS 13 has 128GB and 256GB solid state hard drive optionsⁱⁱⁱ, plus an additional 100GB of cloud storage through Dell DataSafe for seamless content backup and sharing at no additional cost. Additionally, all XPS 13 units include a 12-month Skype Premium subscription^iv to always stay in touch.

“The XPS 13 is the culmination of an extensive design and development process focused on creating the best Ultrabook on the planet,” said Jeff Clarke, vice chairman, Global Operations and End User Computing. “It is specifically engineered to help both our consumer and commercial customers be more productive and connected in every way possible. From the edge-to-edge frameless display that packs more screen into a compact body, to the innovative carbon fiber base that is lightweight and cool to the touch, the XPS 13 exemplifies our commitment to offering industry-leading mobile solutions that deliver durability and performance without compromise.”

Lead with Style and Never Miss a Moment

Purposefully designed and artfully built since it was first conceived in 2010, the XPS 13 maximizes the Ultrabook experience for users: edge-to-edge display with hardened Gorilla Glass; a full-size backlit keyboard with a large glass touchpad with integrated buttons and multi-gestural support; and up to eight hours, fifty-three minutes of battery life^v. All in a package starting at 2.99 lbs.

The 13.3-inch high definition display with slim bezel fits in a body size similar to the form factor of an 11-inch product, making it the most compact Ultrabook available. (Other 13.3-inch laptops offer the same viewing area but with up to a 15 percent larger footprint.) The carbon fiber composite base extends the design process, offering a premium visual appeal, and is lighter and cooler to the touch than aluminum.

Keeping connected and getting online quickly is now a reality. The XPS 13 is one of the first Ultrabooks to feature Intel Smart Connect technology, which wakes periodically to detect known networks and update calendar and emailⁱ. With solid state drives and Intel Rapid Start technology, the XPS 13 boots in seconds, giving customers the performance of a laptop with the instant gratification experience of a smartphone. Dell will also integrate location awareness via Skyhook and Google Places shortly after launch. Because the ultrathin and compact XPS 13 is ideal for use on the go, staying connected will be even easier for those who are first to buy one. The first 10,000 customers to purchase an XPS 13 in the U.S. will receive a free T-Mobile 4G Mobile HotSpot and 90 days of free mobile broadband service at up to 4G speeds on America’s Largest 4G Network^® with no annual contract at time of purchase^vi. The T-Mobile 4G HotSpot lets customers stay connected on the go by linking up to five WiFi devices to high speed Internet using America’s Largest 4G Network.

“When Dell began the conversation of what an Ultrabook could be, we carefully considered how to provide customers not only incredible mobility, but also the kind of performance experience you would expect from something much larger,” said Steve Felice, president and Chief Commercial Officer of Dell. “A ‘good-enough’ Ultrabook wasn’t good enough for us. We were committed to developing what an Ultrabook can and should be with the XPS 13 and providing a superior user experience.”

“The XPS 13 represents the most balanced of the Ultrabook class of notebooks to hit the market so far,” said Rob Enderle, Analyst for the Enderle Group. “Ultrabooks started by forcing people to make a choice between beauty and practicality and Dell took the time to make sure their offering would not only be very attractive, but address the critical needs of business and education buyers as well. Perhaps the best way to describe the XPS 13 is ‘beautifully uncompromised.’”

Best of Both Worlds – Enterprise Friendly Features that the IT Department will Love

Dell went a step further with the XPS 13 to create appeal for all customers – for work and for play – and has made it easier for IT departments to choose laptops that offer the security and services they value in a fit and finish executives and employees demand. Enterprise-friendly features include standard Trusted Platform Module for BitLocker Data Encryption and optional ProSupport after-sales service and Configuration Services such as custom imaging and asset tagging. Combined with available customer service options, including concierge and software support, the XPS 13 is one of the most balanced Ultrabooks available for any need.

America’s Best Protection Plan for Consumers

Dell wants its home customers to experience the XPS 13 with the best standard protection plan^vii in the industry. In addition to the Limited Hardware Warranty^viii, Dell is including one year of Accidental Damage Service^ix and one year of theft protection with Computrace LoJack for Laptops Theft Recovery Service^x as standard. Accidental Damage Service provides customers with peace of mind by protecting against drops and spills and other accidents that may occur. Computrace LoJack for Laptops Theft Recovery Service helps track, locate, lock down and recover a stolen system, and can even remotely delete sensitive data.

Understanding its customers’ need to purchase responsible products, Dell designed the XPS 13 with the environment in mind. Its energy-efficient LED displays have no mercury or arsenic and Dell eliminated harmful toxins such as Brominated Flame Retardants and Polyvinyl Chloride (BFR/PVCs)^xi. The XPS 13 is shipped in many locations with sustainably harvested bamboo packaging material. Every XPS 13 can be configured to be ENERGY STAR qualified, helping customers reduce energy costs. When the time comes, Dell offers multiple recycling options (learn more at Dell.com/recycling).

Detailed Information:

• Ultrathin laptop (0.24-0.71”/6-18mm) with Microsoft Genuine Windows 7 Home Premium; precision machined aluminum with a carbon fiber composite base
• Intel Core i5 2467M and i7 2637M processor choices
• 13.3” HD WLED, 300-nit (1366×768) 720p; edge-to-edge hardened Gorilla Glass
• Intel HD 3000 video graphics^xii
• 4GB DDR3 SDRAM 1333Mhz memory^xii
• 128 GB SSD or 256GB SSD drive optionsⁱⁱⁱ
• Full size, backlit chiclet keyboard; glass integrated button touchpad with multi-gesture support
• Intel Centrino Advanced-N 6230 802.11 A/G/N and Bluetooth 3.0 wireless connectivity^xiii
• High definition audio with Waves MaxxAudio 4
• Built-in 47WHr 6-cell battery (Dell XPS 13 batteries are built into the laptop and are not replaceable by the customer) offering up to eight hours, fifty-three minutes of battery life^v; 45W AC adaptor
• USB 3.0 (1) + USB 2.0 with PowerShare (1), mini Display-Port, and headset jack (1)
• Built-in 1.3MP webcam (H.264 enabled via Skype^iv) with dual array digital microphones
• Dell ProSupport for business customers, Dell Configuration Services and Windows Trusted Platform Module options for commercial models
• Dimensions: Height: 0.24-0.71” (6-18mm) / Width: 12.4” (316mm) / Depth 8.1” (205mm); Weight: starting at 2.99lbs (1.36 kg)ⁱⁱ

Availability and Pricing:

The XPS 13 will be available at the end of February in the United States through www.Dell.com, and in select retail stores nationwide at a starting price of $999 with an Intel Core i5 processor, 128GB SSD hard driveⁱⁱⁱ and 4GB memory^x. Customers can reserve the XPS 13 on www.dell.com starting today. The first 10,000 customers in the U.S. to purchase an XPS 13 will receive a free T-Mobile 4G Mobile HotSpot and 90 days of free mobile broadband service at up to 4G speeds on America’s Largest 4G Network with no annual contract at time of purchase^vi – a value of more than $200. The XPS 13 will be available in select geographies around the world in March 2012.

Another headphone deal announced with Monster partnering with K-Pop recording label JYP Entertainment and its owner, J.Y. Park, to create the DIAMOND TEARS – EDGE headphones range. According to Monster, they were all “based on and inspired by J.Y. Park’s musical talent” (apparently).

First off the ranks is the DIAMOND TEARS – EDGE High Definition Music Headphones, which will retail for US$279.95. The design, however, is meant to be based on “edgy like diamonds, smooth like tears”., and looks like to be attracting the young K-Pop addicted female crowd. These are set to be available in stores sometime this quarter.

Also announced were in-ear versions of the headphones. No pricing was announced, nor any clear details, except that it will be in stores sometime “in the latter half of 2012″.

Lifestyle brand Diesel are teaming up with Monster Cable to create a new “Diesel Noise Division”, and has used CES to reveal their first collaboration – the VEKTR on-ear headphones. Featuring a unique design, thy promise to continue offering high-level audio.

The cosmetic look features a sharp faceted look, unlike traditional round on-ear headphones, and each will have a distinctive diamond-cut Diesel logo on each ear. In addition, the cups are said to be made from silkscreen Mohican head with different finishes, and will come with a non-tangle cord.

The product will come out in worldwide retailers in Q1 this year with a price tag of US$249.95.

Designed to be a “celebration of real music”, Monster Cable and Earth, Wind & Fire, have joined forces to create the new line of headphones. First off from that partnership is its new Gratitude in-ear headphones.

Featuring a rose-gold finish, each speaker were personally tuned by members of the band and by head of Monster Cable, Noel Lee. They also have noise isolation and the ability to reproduce harmonic soundscapes easily.

No release date has been announced, but the pricing has been confirmed to be US$229.95.

NTune On- Ear Headphones

Two new headphones with under a new partnership with actor and rapper Nick Cannon’s company NCredible Entertainment have been unveiled by Monster Cable – known for their affiliation with Beats by Dr Dre. The NCredible headphone range promise high-level audio performance and excellent design.

The NTune are on-ear headphones, and they are lightweight making them more comfortable for a long day’s use. In addition, they feature a tangle-free cord and a low profile right angle connector that adds supposed comfort and flexibility.

Nergy In- Ear Headphones

The Nergy, however, are in-ear headphones that promises to pack in astoundingly big sound despite the size thanks to audio innovations such as new drivers. They also feature unique ear buds that snap together and create a necklace – yes, because I absolutely want to wear my headphones as a necklace.

Both also will have Monster’s ControlTalk Universal, allowing support of its music playback controls on most Android and BlackBerry phones; in addition to hands free calling.

No date has been revealed, but it’ll most likely come alongside the line of bags coming in June. The NTune will retail for US$129.95, and the Nergy for US$69.95.

Belkin has revealed more information about its Thunderbolt Express Dock – a product that lets Macbooks and Ultrabooks instantly access multiple desktop peripherals with one cable, expanding the number of available ports.

Ports include three USB 2.0 ports, a Firewire 800 port, a HDMI port, a 3.5mm Audio jack, a gigabit Ethernet port and two Thunderbolt ports – one up, one down for easy daisy-chaining with another Thunderbolt-connected device.

The expected price tag is US$299 and will be out in September at selected retailers worldwide and on its website.

Need the fastest SDXC card there is? Well, SanDisk has you covered, as long as you have a lot of dough. Shipping worldwide now, or very soon, the 64GB and 128GB SDXC card has transfer speeds of up to 4.5MB/s. The 64GB card is US$199.99 and the 128GB card is a whopping US$399.99.

Sure it’s not cheap, but if you’re in the need for speed then you might like the sound of a super fast card. It’s aimed at 3D capturing, but you should really see if you need it before you buy it.