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September 24, 2013

LG Launches Two New 'Ultra Wide' LED Monitors

LG Electronics USA today launched two new "UltraWide" 21:9 aspect ratio LED monitors designed to offer professional tools for effective multitasking and excellent gaming experience. Models EA73 and LN450W, which will be on sale in late September, also employ LG's advanced In-Plane Switching (IPS) technology and 2560 x 1080 resolution capability to deliver exceptional picture quality.
"Picture quality is always the number one priority when LG designs display products, but we also focus on versatility," said Tim Alessi, director of new product development at LG Electronics USA. "Our new UltraWide monitors exemplify that focus with features that make them ideal for home-office professionals, students, gamers and casual users alike."

UltraWide Monitor: Multitasking and Multimedia Functionality
LG's new UltraWide monitors feature multitasking and multimedia capabilities, making them ideal for a variety of uses, such as gaming, watching movies and everyday tasks. In addition to their unique aspect ratio and 29-inch class screens (29.0 inches measured diagonally), a feature gamers love because it expands overall screen real estate, LG's new monitors come with software designed to help consumers easily manage multiple windows and source devices.
LG's 4-Screen Split feature allows users to divide the screen into four sections at eight different screen ratios, so users can prioritize windows by size and location instead of having to manually resize and position each window individually. A few simple mouse clicks enable the user to quickly arrange windows into a variety of useful configurations, perfect for the student or professional who needs to jump from program to program. Adding even more versatility, a connectivity feature called Dual-Link Up allows the monitor to connect to two source devices (e.g. smartphones, PCs, cameras, Blu-ray players or gaming systems) and display each on a single screen simultaneously.

Completing the Package
The IPS 21:9 UltraWide series is Mac® compatible and supports Mobile High-Definition Link (MHL), HDMI and DisplayPort, transforming PCs into powerful entertainment hubs capable of mirroring and transmitting content from a wide range of devices. Graphic designers also should find the monitor's 99 percent sRGB color space expression and support for color calibration helpful. Coupled with these features is IPS technology to help ensure the most accurate color reproduction of source materials.
The LN450W incorporates a digital TV tuner for broadcast reception as well as cable or set-top box connectivity. Both models feature 7W speakers and LG's immersive, thin-bezel CINEMA SCREEN Design for a complete entertainment package.
The EA73 and LN450W will be on sale online and retailers at suggested prices of $599.99 and $649.99, respectively. For more information please visit www.lg.com/us/monitors.

Posted at 10:05 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

eTrak Releases PetTrak Pet Locator

eTrak, the developer of the smallest reliable GPS on the market, has announced the release of its latest product, the PetTrak GPS+ tracking system. Now available for purchase online, this device will help owners rest soundly knowing their furry friends can no longer get lost, even when the door is accidentally left open or a leash breaks.
PetTrak is a small lightweight device used to track the location of most pets. PetTrak uses GPS+, eTrak's patent-pending technology utilizing Wi-Fi, Cell ID, and GPS to deliver accurate location, indoors or out. With PetTrak, users can always know the location of their beloved animal companions. PetTrak also allows users to set up specific "safety circle zones," around designated areas where pets spend most of their time. If the pet leaves or enters this zone, the pet's owner will be notified via text and/or email.
"One of the best features of PetTrak is the safety circle, which enables pet owners to draw a boundary circle around the house, yard, or any place that provides a protective perimeter for a pet," said John Harris, eTrak Founder and CEO. "If a pet wanders off beyond the circle, PetTrak will send an email and text message to the owner's cellphone and computer. Not only that, but it will even include a Google map with the pet's location."
Simply attach the lightweight PetTrak device to a pet's collar and you can track your four-legged friend in virtually any environment around the clock, from any smartphone, computer or tablet.
Find out more at http://etrak.com/products/PetTrak/

Posted at 10:01 AM in Wearables, Wireless | Permalink | Comments (0)

September 23, 2013

Honeywell Introduces Home Thermostat with Voice Control

Honeywell has introduced its latest connected home innovation: the Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat with Voice Control. The new voice technology allows consumers to simply say, “Hello, thermostat,” to activate and control their home’s temperature.

A first-of-its-kind consumer device, the Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat with Voice Control utilizes advanced far-field voice-control technology, which breaks through the ambient noise of a busy household and recognizes commands such as “make it four degrees warmer” or “make it much cooler” — even from across the room. Upon installation, the thermostat immediately recognizes the homeowner’s voice and adjusts the temperature setting based on their request. This is the first cloud-based voice controlled solution that will get smarter over time, adding more commands based on its interactions with homeowners.

“For more than 100 years, our mission has been developing products and technologies that make life more comfortable and convenient for homeowners,” said Beth Wozniak, President of Honeywell Environmental and Combustion Controls. “Honeywell created the first programmable thermostat, the first touch-screen thermostat, and the first with a color-customizable screen. And now we are first with voice control. We are very proud to introduce a Wi-Fi thermostat that truly interacts with homeowners and offers a level of convenience not found anywhere else.”

“Most homeowners know the feeling of coming through the front door while juggling bags of groceries, a stack of mail, and keys to a less-than-comfortable temperature,” said Tony Uttley, General Manager of Home Comfort and Energy Systems at Honeywell. “With this hands-free advancement, homeowners can simply speak to their thermostat, and it responds by adjusting the environment to their preferences. We believe the next generation of advancements in connected home technology means people don’t have to be tied to their devices. Instead, Honeywell devices are truly an extension of their lifestyle.”

In addition, the Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat with Voice Control allows design-focused homeowners to customize it to match or accent their home décor. The thermostat also offers Wi-Fi connectivity that allows consumers to regulate their energy usage and home comfort through their smart phone. Homeowners can adjust the thermostat by using the Total Connect Comfort smart phone app – which is the top-rated thermostat app on Google PlayTM or iTunesTM.

Honeywell’s Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat with Voice Control will be available beginning November 2013 at a suggested retail price of $349. To purchase, visit lowes.com, homedepot.com, amazon.com and bestbuy.com.

To learn more, please visit www.wifithermostat.com or for consumers who want installation assistance a contractor can be found at www.yourhome.honeywell.com.

Posted at 10:04 AM in Apps, Cloud Services, Emerging Technology | Permalink | Comments (0)

App Developers Conference Survey Finds Piracy, Discoverability To Be Key Issues Facing App Creators

Piracy and discoverability are the top issues facing app developers today, according to new research conducted by the organizers of the inaugural App Developers Conference (ADC). In order to paint a picture of the app development landscape as it stands right before ADC, more than 250 app creators were surveyed on topics ranging from targeted platforms and app stores to app verticals, monetization methods and more. Organized by the UBM Tech Game Network, creators and producers of the Game Developers Conference (GDC), ADC will take place November 5-7 at the Los Angeles Convention Center and will be co-located with another inaugural event, the future-facing GDC Next.

The ADC survey found that piracy is a major issue with app development—though it appears that some developers feel the sting far more heavily than others. 26 percent of surveyed developers reported that their apps had been pirated. Of those developers whose apps use in-app purchases (IAP), a similar 26 percent found that their IAPs had been hacked (that is, obtained without payment). Seven percent of respondents were familiar with their app's piracy statistics, either from internal checks, analytics, or other sources, and some of those provided anecdotal evidence. "Of our 8M+ total downloads," one said, "1.5M+ have been pirated, mostly in Russia and China."  

Developers frequently described app stores as "crowded" and "overpopulated with low-quality apps"; others also noted that users' expectations for free apps made it hard to charge even $0.99 for their higher-quality app. Other developers cited platform and device fragmentation as their main issue: "Too many devices and operating systems to support," "Too many app stores," "Too many competing platforms," "Different languages and stores," and other similar comments came up very frequently.
When it came to how their studio attempted to solve said problems, most developers were fairly clear: Make better apps. "Create the best app possible," "Build a quality app," "Make innovative apps," "Give them an app worth paying for," "Make things that matter," and similar responses were very common.

Posted at 09:59 AM in Apps, Conferences and Trade Shows | Permalink | Comments (0)

Ricoh Unveils Cloud-Printing Service for Business Environment

Ricoh Americas Corporation today introduced a new cloud printing service, FlexRelease CX, which enables users to simply press "print" and pick up their job at the nearest Ricoh device.

Users can send documents to the cloud from their mobile phones, tablets, laptops or PCs, and instantly retrieve them from any FlexRelease CX-enabled Ricoh printer or multifunction product (MFP) in the world. As a cloud service, FlexRelease CX requires little or no capital investment or IT involvement, enabling IT staff to focus on more strategic work. The secure print release service requires users to verify their identities with a user name and password to release a print job. FlexRelease CX's time out feature helps reduce wasteful printing and unnecessary costs by allowing administrators to specify an amount of time a job is held in queue before automatically being deleted. Users can also control environmentally-friendly device features, such as two-sided printing, document resolution, and whether or not the document is in color.

"Many organizations are scrambling to catch up to the demands of their increasingly mobile workforce, putting enormous pressure on IT staffs," said Jason Dizzine, Vice President, Technology Marketing, Ricoh Americas Corporation. "FlexRelease CX, however, provides a location-independent printing experience that, unlike other solutions, requires no server purchase, installation or management. Just subscribe and use it as long as you need it."

Ricoh FlexRelease CX supports all email-enabled mobile devices, and adds additional file upload and extended management features through an iOS app for iPad® and iPhone®. The FlexRelease CX solution also includes a print driver for direct print to cloud capability. The FlexRelease CX-embedded MFP client installs without external hardware on most A3- and A4-class Ricoh MFPs.

For details on Ricoh's full line of products, services and solutions, visit www.ricoh-usa.com.

Posted at 09:52 AM in Cloud Services | Permalink | Comments (0)

Microsoft Unveils Next-Generation Surface Tablets

Microsoft Corp. on Monday announced that the Microsoft Surface family of tablets is growing. Two new Surface models — Surface 2 and Surface Pro 2 — along with an expanded portfolio of new Surface accessories, will be available at Microsoft retail stores, http://www.MicrosoftStore.com and select third-party retailers in 22 initial markets, including Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Ireland, Italy,Luxembourg, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and the United States on Oct. 22 and China in early November. Additional markets will be announced in the coming months.

Surface 2 and Surface Pro 2 each benefit from significant updates, including improvements to processing power and battery life, to display and camera resolution, and to the Kickstand, now with dual angles, so it's more comfortable for you to use your Surface on your lap or at your desk. Enhancements in Windows RT 8.1 and Windows 8.1 Pro make Surface 2 and Surface Pro 2 even more powerful and customizable.

Pre-order Surface

Customers can pre-order Surface 2 and Surface Pro 2 starting at 8 a.m. EDT on Sept. 24, 2013, athttp://www.MicrosoftStore.com, Microsoft Stores, and Best Buy in the U.S. and Canada, as well as select retailers in most Surface 2 and Surface Pro 2 launch markets.

Value-added services

To help people get the most out of Surface 2 and Surface Pro 2, customers purchasing either device will receive free Skype calling to landlines in more than 60 countries for one year, unlimited Skype WiFi on their Surface 2 or Surface Pro 2 at more than 2 million hot spots worldwide for one year, and 200 GB of free SkyDrive storage for two years.

Surface 2

Surface 2 is the most productive tablet for personal use. It offers all the entertainment and gaming capabilities you expect from a tablet, along with the ability to get work done. Surface 2 is powered by an NVIDIA Tegra 4 processor, making apps run faster and smoother and increasing battery life to up to 10 hours for video playback. The 10.6-inch ClearType Full HD display now renders 1080p video for enjoying shows and movies, and its full-size USB port has been upgraded to USB 3.0 for up to four times faster file transfers. Camera resolution has also increased, with a 3.5-megapixel front camera and 5-megapixel rear camera, both capable of capturing 1080p video and featuring improved low-light performance, making face-to-face conversations with your favorite people crisp and clear. Even with these and other upgrades, Surface 2 is slightly thinner and lighter than its predecessor.

Surface 2 will ship with Windows RT 8.1, bringing improvements in key areas such as personalization, search, multitasking, built-in apps, the Windows Store experience and cloud connectivity. The new Xbox Music allows you to stream millions of songs for free, and an updated Video app and great games from the Windows Store such as "Halo: Spartan Assault" will ensure that you never run out of ways to play. When it's time to get serious, Surface 2 is pre-loaded with Microsoft Office 2013 RT — including Outlook RT; simply click in a Touch or Type Cover and get to work.

Surface 2 is available in 32GB and 64GB configurations;1 it will start at $449.

Surface Pro 2

Surface Pro 2 is the successor to Surface Pro and, like its predecessor, is a true laptop replacement, capable of running virtually all your Windows software including the full Microsoft Office suite,2 as well as apps from the Windows Store. Surface Pro 2 offers the portability and simplicity of a tablet when you want it and the power and flexibility of a laptop when you need it. It is powered by a fourth-generation Intel Core i5 processor which, combined with other improvements, delivers increased performance and up to 60 percent longer battery life than Surface Pro.

Starting at $899, Surface Pro 2 will be offered in 64GB and 128GB configurations with 4 GB of RAM and 256GB and 512GB configurations with 8 GB of RAM.1

Full specs are available at http://www.Surface.com/pre-order.

Posted at 09:48 AM in Tablets | Permalink | Comments (0)

Nissan To Become Exclusive Automotive Launch Partner For Apple iTunes Radio

Nissan today announced that it will serve as the exclusive automotive partner for the launch of Apple's iTunes Radio, taking advantage of new creative formats, including audio and video, across Apple TV, iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Mac and PC. Among the first Nissan vehicles to be highlighted with unique iTunes Radio materials are the upcoming, totally resigned 2014 Nissan Rogue compact SUV, the all-new 2014 Nissan Versa Note and the hot-selling Nissan LEAF electric vehicle.

Nissan announces first-year partnership commitment for iAd on iTunes Radio, becomes exclusive automotive partner through 2013
Unique content available across Apple TV, iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Mac and PC
Will create special "newsworthy moments" content in support of the roll-out of the upcoming 2014 Nissan Rogue and ongoing Nissan Heisman House Tour
Nissan Versa Note and Nissan LEAF also supported with custom iTunes Radio content

"We see iTunes Radio as an integral part of our new vehicle launches and 'big moments,' riding the wave of interest and usage of this exciting new service to maximize exposure of Nissan's new models," said Jon Brancheau, Vice President, Marketing, Nissan North America, Inc. "We're also adding iAd on iTunes Radio as a critical platform in support of ongoing campaigns, such as our college football and Heisman Trophy Tour initiatives. It's a great way for Nissan to reach the right audiences in the right markets."

The campaign theme for the all-new 2014 Nissan Rogue is "Make the Ordinary Extraordinary." The marketing efforts are designed to drive reservations for the vehicle, which goes on sale at Nissan dealers nationwide in November. Rogue's presence on iTunes Radio is a major part of this effort.
"Nissan, as a brand also known for innovation, is proud to support iTunes Radio from the very beginning, with content relevant to consumers' interests," added Brancheau. "We see iTunes Radio being a huge success and we look forward to delivering amazing brand experiences to this exciting new audience."

Posted at 09:35 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)

September 20, 2013

Employees Overwhelmingly Prefer to be Paid Electronically, Spend Electronically

Mobile coupons are on the rise, as well as digital wallets and other forms of cashless payment. In the modern workforce, employees overwhelmingly are paid electronically rather than by traditional paychecks or cash, according to results from the recent "Getting Paid In America" survey. The survey, conducted by the American Payroll Association, showed that ninety-seven percent of employees are paid by either direct deposit, payroll card or prepaid reloadable cards.

"There are many benefits to electronic payment methods," said Michael Purcell, chief marketing officer and Executive Vice President at Global Cash Card. "These technologies make use of enhanced security features, and are cost effective, convenient, flexible and environmentally friendly."

Electronic payments make it easier to use the convenient digital wallets in modern-day apps. Leave the office and head right to the bar-- without cash-- and securely wire your buddy your portion of the tab (with tip!) with the Buy Me a Drink app or the Google Wallet.

The trend toward electronic payroll options is further shown in the survey with 83 percent of participants indicating their employers allow them to view paystubs online through an employee self-service portal. In addition, 63 percent of respondents indicated they receive their annual wage and earning statement, Form W-2, electronically from their employer.

"Adoption of electronic payroll services is gaining in popularity and is especially helpful for employees who otherwise wouldn't have easy access to current technologies," said Chris Ruppel, General Manager Prepaid Cards, the Americas at WEX rapid! PayCard. "Employees who utilize payroll cards and opt for direct deposit, for example, can save time and money. Payroll cards and direct deposit are also much safer than cash and check payments."

Due to a sharp increase in consumer awareness of their privacy and information security, mobile apps have taken many extra steps to ensure that the money in a digital wallet is safer than physical cash in the consumer's back pocket. The PayPal App and PayPal Here App are secure on all fronts with Payment Protection and Seller Protection, as well as the guarantee that "all... financial information is securely stored and encrypted on [Paypal] servers, so [consumers] don't need to share [their] financial information with [vendors]."

The Getting Paid in America survey asked, "How do you receive your pay?" Only three percent of respondents indicated they are paid by paper paycheck or cash. The remaining 97 percent are paid electronically, by either direct deposit, paycards, or prepaid reloadable cards.

The "Getting Paid In America" survey was held in conjunction with APA's annual public awareness campaign, National Payroll Week (NPW), held annually the week of Labor Day. Nearly 32,800 employees responded to the survey, providing insight into how workers are paid in America. For complete results, visit www.nationalpayrollweek.com.

APA information sourced from PRNewswire

Posted at 10:40 AM in CE Retailing, e-Commerce, Mobile Electronics , Smartphones, Trends | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)

Gogo and Allstate Offer 30 Minutes of Free In-flight Internet During Weekend Flights

Gogo, a pioneer in wireless in-flight digital entertainment solutions, is partnering with Allstate to offer passengers 30 minutes of free in-flight Internet access on their smartphones during weekend flights.

"We are extremely excited to work with Allstate to offer benefits to all Gogo in-flight Internet users who fly during the weekend," said Ash ElDifrawi, Gogo's chief commercial officer. "This partnership with Allstate is a great example of the ways in which Gogo is working with leading brands to reach a highly connected audience while they are in the air."

"The partnership with Gogo provides another opportunity for Allstate to be a part of the good in people's lives," said Bob Wasserman, Senior Vice President, e-Business Marketing, Allstate Insurance Company. "Connecting with friends and family while in the air allows Allstate to bring the Good Life to customers and non-customers alike."

Starting September 21, the free 30 minute sessions will be available to passengers on all Gogo equipped flights with the exception of Gogo equipped Air Canada aircraft.

PRNewswire

Posted at 10:18 AM in Breaking CE News, e-Commerce, Smartphones | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)

Show-off Your Colors with Case-Mate's Latest Collection of iPhone 5C Cases

Case-Mate® unveils its latest collection of cases for the new Apple iPhone 5C. Featuring the most complete portfolio of transparent, see-through cases designed to showcase, enhance, and protect the vibrant colors and natural appearance of the iPhone 5C device, Case-Mate's latest collections of iPhone 5C cases are available now at www.case-mate.com.

"One of the most interesting promises of the new iPhone 5C is the ability to own an affordable, Apple-quality smartphone that comes in bold, vibrant colors. We believe that iPhone 5C owners will see the device as a pallet for self-expression and will desire a range of case options that have a flair for style while also providing additional protection," said Shashi Reddy, founder and CEO of Case-Mate.

The Case-Mate Collection of iPhone 5C Cases Include:

Naked Tough - Clear, $35: This protective, two-piece case keeps it cool with its smooth transparent finish and ultra slim design. Its lightweight, minimalist design delivers a stylish profile, while the impact resistant hard shell and coordinating bumper protects against impacts and falls. Metallic chrome buttons accent and complete the polished look of your iPhone 5C. The Naked Tough – Clear is available in three see-through combinations: Clear Case with Clear Bumper, Clear Case with White Bumper, and Clear Case with Black Bumper. http://bit.ly/NakedTough_iPhone5C
Naked Tough - Colors, $35: Add a unique flair of color to your iPhone 5C with the Naked Tough – Colors collection. Featuring the same lightweight, slim profile as the original Naked Tough, the new Naked Tough – Colors are available in the following color combinations: Pink Case with White Bumper, Aqua Case with White Bumper, and Purple Case with White Bumper. http://bit.ly/NakedTough_iPhone5C
Barely There - Clear, $25: Think thin with the original slim case. The Barely There forms a classic and protective design that shows off the slim profile of your device. The impact resistant hard shell covers the back and sides, while the lay-flat feature protects the front of your iPhone 5C by extending the bezel above the screen. In addition to clear, Case-Mate Barely There iPhone 5C cases are also available in black and glossy white. http://bit.ly/BarelyThere_iPhone5C
Gelli – Clear, $15:The Gelli adds a splash of translucent color and gives your iPhone 5C case a unique aesthetic to set it apart from the rest. Featuring a smooth flexible shell with a frosted back, the Gelli will showcase the vibrant color of your iPhone 5C while also keeping it safe. http://bit.ly/Gelli_iPhone5C
In addition, the Case-Mate Collection of iPhone 5C cases will include designs from its current portfolio of stylish case accessories, including the very popular Glimmer, Tortoiseshell, Sleek, Carbon, Slim Folio, Prints, POP!, Tough, and Barely There ID cases.

Pricing and Availability:
Case-Mate's new iPhone 5C case collections range from $15 to $35 and are available today at www.case-mate.com.