Consumer Electronics Daily News

Evergreen Studios Debuts "Tales of Honor" Multi-platform StoryWorld

Evergreen Studios announces Tales of Honor, a rich multi-platform storyworld based on the New York Times bestselling science-fiction novels, Honor Harrington, by David Weber. Content launching in March and continuing over the next few years will include comics, digital games and apps, webisodes, TV episodes, and a feature film.

Tales of Honor follows the life and times of Honor Harrington, a brilliant genetically engineered female spaceship captain, as she heroically leads her crew through a series of epic political, military, and personal adventures. The stories are set 2,000 years in the future when hyperspace travel has allowed humanity to colonize the far reaches of the universe and are underscored by altruistic themes such as loyalty and leadership. Combined with multi-layered characters, plot twist, and epic space battles, the Tales of Honor series is filled with emotion and intrigue resulting in deeply engaging entertainment. 

"What makes these stories different is their female protagonist's unique narrative perspective and just how grounded and believable they are. By creating a futuristic society that is largely gender blind; we are able to explore the issues of female leadership in the military that are both ground-breaking and especially resonant for today's audience," said Scott Kroopf, Chief Creative Officer, Evergreen Studios. "Weber's storyworld is so cool because it's based in real science, which gives it a feeling of authenticity. Tales of Honor is to Science Fiction what Jason Bourne is to spy movies: realistic, gritty, and action-packed."

A monthly comic will launch the storyworld on March 5, 2014 through publisher, Top Cow (available in comic stores and digitally at TopCow.com). The first mobile game, Tales of Honor: The Secret Fleet, will be available on iOS and Android and releases in mid-March.

Evergreen Studios, the company behind Walking With Dinosaurs, currently in theatres, brings a Silicon Valley-based ethos toHollywood storytelling. Using proprietary technology to enhance the creative process Evergreen develops stories whose characters, plots, and ideas can unfold over multiple platforms.

"Having worked 20 years in the software business, I know the key to success is adaptability.  Gauging feedback in the form of continuous consumer engagement allows us to experiment, be flexible and adapt to meet consumers evolving preferences," said Mike Devlin, CEO, Evergreen Studios.

The Honor Harrington book series is a perfect fit for adaptation because of the breath of content, its broad audience appeal, the science and technology focus, and its strong existing fan base. 

The 28 books, including an anthology series, two spin-off series, and a recent young adult series provide a plethora of content for various storylines. Much like the adventures of Jack Ryan in Tom Clancy's novels, Tales of Honor represents the best of hard science fiction with its larger than life characters, complex plotting, big stakes, incisive political and social commentary, and heart-pounding action.

Evergreen's own technological and engineering expertise will make Weber's futuristic technology, weaponry, and space battles "come to life" for that immersive experience. Finally, Honor Harrington novels have active and passionate fans that will serve as brand ambassadors to broaden the appeal to the mainstream.

For more information, go to www.evgstudios.com.

Blackphone Promises Privacy, Control

Silent Circle and Geeksphone today announced a new Switzerland-based joint venture and its inaugural product, Blackphone, the world's first smartphone placing privacy and control directly in the hands of its users.

Blackphone, powered by a security-oriented Android™ build named PrivatOS, is a carrier- and vendor-independent smartphone giving individuals and organizations the ability to make and receive secure phone calls, exchange secure texts, transfer and store files, and video chat without compromising user privacy on the device.

It is the culmination of several careers' worth of effort from leading figures in the industry, including Phil Zimmermann, creator of PGP; Javier Aguera, co-founder of Geeksphone; Jon Callas, co-founder of PGP Inc. and CTO of Silent Circle; Rodrigo Silva-Ramos, co-founder of Geeksphone; and Mike Janke, CEO of Silent Circle and former US Navy SEAL. 

"I have spent my whole career working towards the launch of secure telephony products," said Zimmermann. "Blackphone provides users with everything they need to ensure privacy and control of their communications, along with all the other high-end smartphone features they have come to expect."   

Blackphone may be seen at https://www.blackphone.ch and visitors may join a mailing list to be kept informed of updates as the launch date approaches.  Blackphone will be available for pre-order beginning February 24, 2014, at Mobile World Congress, in Barcelona, Spain.

For more information or to contact Blackphone visit: https://www.blackphone.ch

Five Elements Robotics Announces the Launching of Budgee

Five Elements Robotics has launched a Kickstarter campaign to fund the production of Budgee, a robot designed to follow you around and carry your stuff. Budgee™ has two target consumer markets. One is the casual user, who likes to shop, but doesn't like to carry packages.  Included in this consumer market is also the parent who likes to take their children to theme parks, parks, beaches, etc., but doesn't like to carry all the stuff that goes with that activity.  Budgee is portable, folding easily to fit into the back of a car.  It weighs less than 20 pounds for easy lifting and storage.  At the mall Budgee will follow you around carrying your items, at the theme park or other location, Budgee will do the same.  This leaves your hands free for shopping and other fun activities.  Budgee also comes with the ability to be driven by remote control using your smart phone or tablet (must be Bluetooth 4 compatible).

The second target consumer market is retail chains and mall management services.  The company proposes that a fleet of Budgees would help improve retail business dramatically.  For the malls, the shoppers will be able to shop longer because they will have less physical strain of carrying bags.  Also they won't be limited by how much they can carry.  For retail chains such as Walmart, K-Mart, Target, etc, having a fleet of Budgees will not only draw shoppers due to the novelty, but also help them with sales.

Budgee can be equipped with helpful information, such as "People who bought the item you just bought also liked these items in aisle 4," displaying images of the related items. It can also remind customers of sale items as they browse the isles and help them find items that they are looking for. Budgee can be equipped with a scanner and checkout capability to allow the customer to skip waiting in line all together, thereby making the shopping experience more pleasurable. Budgee™ can be equipped with the ability to alert store managers if someone tries to leave without paying for the items.

Find more information here.

Epson America Launches App-Enabled Label Printer for Smartphones and Tablets

 Epson America today announced the Epson^® LabelWorks^™ LW-600P, a new one-of-a-kind label printer for smartphones and tablets that gives users the ability to make an endless variety of both practical and creative labels for the home or workplace.

The LabelWorks LW-600P is one of the smallest and lightest 24mm (~1") label printers on the market today with a powerful set of capabilities and features, including:

• Bluetooth^® connectivity for use with smart phones and tablets
• USB connectivity for printing from Windows and Mac computers
• Print speeds up to 15mm/s at 180dpi for fast printing of labels
• Tape widths of 6mm (~1/4") to 24mm (~1") for maximum versatility
• Battery-powered operation for portability and mobility
• AC power (adapter included) to allow the LW-600P to be always on and ready

For iOS^® and Android^™ device users, the free Epson iLabel app takes full advantage of the capabilities of their smart phones and tablets to offer features never before available with traditional label makers, such as:

• "True-view" label preview capability using the camera function to ensure labels perfectly match what's on the screen
• Handwriting mode for custom drawing or annotation of labels using the touch screen interface
• Speech-to-text voice transcription and printing
• In-app storage of created label for future use
• Import of custom graphics such as symbols, logos and photographs to copy and paste onto labels for a more professional look or to add a personalized touch
• Creation of QR code labels for content sharing or barcode labels for inventory management which can be scanned by third-party QR/barcode apps

Lepow to Present Power Banks for Smartphones at CES

Lepow International will showcase its new 2-in-1 'Pixels' and 'Pie' magnetic power banks and phone cases at 2014 International CES. The two models feature 3000mAh power capacity, magnetized connection between the power bank and case, and are available for the Samsung Galaxy S3, Note 2, HTC, and Apple iPhone 5 and iPad Mini. The new combo packages will be shown in the Lepow CES booth, 50015, located in the iLounge Pavilion in LVH.

"Our new magnetized power-continuation solutions, 'Pixels' and 'Pie', are specially designed as true combinations of science, technology, and fashion," commented Jacky Fan, Lepow CEO. "The power bank and phone case are easily attached using the magnetic plate that is on both of the items. Additionally, both models come in stylish fashion colors, allowing the user to choose the combination of colors that match his or her style."

'Pixels' and 'Pie' were designed to improve how power banks function. Unlike other smartphone case chargers that are one piece, 'Pixels' and 'Pie' have a detachable power bank, which allows users to remove the bulk and keep their phone thin when it doesn't need a charge. Since the power bank can be separated from the case, it is easier and more convenient for everyday use. Additionally, if users change phone models, they can simply buy a new phone case and use their existing power bank.

'Pixels' has a unique fashion-inspired latticework design on both the case and power bank that offers comfort and sure grip. It is available in bright colors for young, fashion-forward consumers. 'Pie' has a smooth, streamlined design made of rubberized material that fits comfortably in the hand. It is available in softer colors for professional applications. The USB charger on both models is located at the bottom of the battery pack for convenience and no tangled wires.

By gently shaking either model's power bank, the four LED lights at the top will light according to how much power is left (each represents 25 percent power). Conversely, the lights also indicate the charging status.

Availability

The Lepow 'Pixels' and 'Pie' power banks and phone cases will be available online in January 2014 with an MSRP of $79.99. 'Pixels' is available in sky blue or banana yellow and 'Pie' is available in watermelon green, banana yellow or persimmon orange. All Lepow products are available online at http://lepowglobal.com/official-webstore

 

LG Audio Video Lineup with Convenient Smart Features and Explosive Sound

LG Electronics' U.S. audio video lineup will be showcased at next month's 2014 International CES® (booth #8204). The premium selection of products offer consumers solutions with rich, deeply satisfying sound along with the plethora of convenient smart connectivity features.

"TV screens may get the majority of consumers' attention in the showroom but the unsung hero of great home entertainment is sound," said Byung-hoon Min, Senior Vice President of the AV Division of LG's Home Entertainment Company. "At LG, we devote a significant portion of our TV research and development on the audio experience because we believe this will be the next battleground for winning the hearts and minds of home entertainment aficionados."

Combining Smart TV with Astonishing Sound 
LG expanded its offerings in the emerging SoundPlate category with an all-in-one home entertainment unit, (model LAB540W). At a mere 39.5mm high, this stylish device is space efficient and can be placed directly underneath a variety of 32- to 55-inch class TVs to minimize clutter. The new model is equipped with a robust 4.1 channel, 320W sound system and an external wireless subwoofer.

The SoundPlate can also serve as a connectivity portal and features a built-in 3D Blu-ray player along with LG Smart TV functionality, transforming any flat screen TV into a Smart TV with powerful sound performance. Additionally, customers can wirelessly stream music to the LAB540W from a compatible smart phone or tablet via Bluetooth.

Streaming High Quality Music to Multiple Rooms 
LG extended its audio lineup to include a versatile home audio system with a selection of networkable wireless speakers. LG's Multi-Room Speaker System provides a great solution for consumers by allowing them to wirelessly stream audio files from their compatible smartphones, tablets, or computers to multiple speakers simultaneously. Several speakers can be set up in any combination of rooms, connecting an entire house under a single system.

The embedded network technology makes it possible to choose between playing the same song throughout the home or different songs through each speaker. LG developed a downloadable app to turn a smartphone into an easy-to-use master control unit with an interface that lets users seamlessly stream locally saved music or audio from online sources. Overall clarity is enhanced by a dual-tweeter arrangement and 24 bit/192kHz offers studio-like sound quality. The two speakers in the lineup include:

NP8740 – 70W Speaker, with built-in Wi-Fi (2.4/5GHz), Bluetooth enabled and MESH network  capable.

NP8540 – 40W Speaker, with built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth enabled and MESH network capable.

Compelling Audio Sophistication in Minimalist Design
LG refreshed its Sound Bar options for 2014 with two new models that are the perfect complement for a wide variety of TV sizes and styles. The NB5540 is LG's flagship model with an aesthetic meant to match LG's modern thin-bezel TVs. The system features 4.1 channels and a powerful 320 watts output and a wireless subwoofer. Despite its low profile body, the NB5540 delivers rich, room-filling audio thanks to two forward-facing and two rear-facing channel configuration. The unit will employ a Hi-Fi DAC and Analog Class D amp to ensure superior HD audio quality, minimizing the loss of detail and producing clean, natural sound.

For easy connectivity, it supports HDMI with Audio Return Channel (ARC), and is also Bluetooth enabled, facilitating wireless audio streaming from compatible smart devices such as a Smart TV or smartphone.

Also key to the 2014 bar lineup is the NB3740A, which offers consumers premium streaming content from embedded partners including Netflix, Vudu, CinemaNow, Pandora and vTuner. It is also a 4.1 channel, 320W system that features HDMI/ARC and Bluetooth connectivity.

Winning Track Record
The 2014 lineup includes a number of other premium products to deliver convenient wireless connectivity and an unforgettable auditory experience. LG will introduce three new Blu-ray Disc players in 2014. The flagship model (BP740) will offer a range of comprehensive Smart features via Built-in Wi-Fi capability. Content options include premium services such as Amazon Instant Video, Hulu Plus, Pandora, Netflix and YouTube as well as web browsing. It will also include the LG Magic Remote, enabling customers to navigate the system with easy pointing and-wheel based actions. A unique convenience feature called Private Sound Mode 2.0 will allow users to route the sound from either disc-based or streaming media straight to a compatible Bluetooth headphone or smart phone so content can be enjoyed without disturbing others. Additional Blu-ray players in the U.S. lineup include:

BP540 – Full HD 1080p 3D Network Blu-ray Player features LG Smart functionality, Private Sound Mode 2.0 and built-in Wi-Fi capability.

BP340 – Full HD 1080p Network Blu-ray Player with a streaming content suite consisting of Netflix, VUDU, YouTube, CinemaNow and Pandora* as well as built-in Wi-Fi capability.

For consumers looking for a more powerful audio experience, LG has also created a 500W Home Theater System in 2014 (model BH5140S). With a streaming 3D Blu-ray player included, it is another all-in-one solution offering augmented sound and numerous content options that consumers have come to expect.

New Version of Popular MP3 Converter Software Available on CNET

 Multimedia, developer of several of the most highly rated, free conversion tools online, has released an upgraded version of its MP3 Converter, one of the most downloaded converters on CNET. The new version of MP3 Converter, available on CNET now, converts files at a significantly faster rate, features a more user friendly GUI and has custom bitrate options that let users choose the exact quality of their output file. The free MP3 Converter software is one the fastest and easiest to use audio converters online.

The new free MP3 Converter, which previously only converted audio files, now has the ability to covert video files to audio as well. MP3 Converter currently supports the following formats: MP3, WAV, OGG, AAC, WMA, M4A, FLV, AVI, MPG and MP4. MP3 Converter supports single file conversions, batch conversions, importing from zip files, and has the ability to add all files from a single folder all at once. With this feature, users can import audio/video files that need to be converted from a zip file without having to extract them first, by simply selecting "file" then "add zip" and pointing to the zip file. The conversion tool will add the supported files from the zip into its file conversion queue automatically.

MP3 Converter's new custom bitrate option lets users specifically choose the quality of their files rather than just selecting from the preset high, medium or low options. And, its audio tag editor lets users pick a file and edit the audio tag if needed before the conversions.

"Don't let the simple name fool you. MP3 Converter's conversions are always the fastest, and the outputted multimedia files are always of the highest quality," said a spokesperson for the developer of MP3 Converter. A CNET reviewer echoed this of the free audio converter, writing, "Works flawlessly, fast conversion process, also good quality output files."

New Transmedia Hub Offers Storytellers the Ability to Mix Written Word with Video Game Mechanics and Social Media

What do you get when you mix narrative and social video game mechanics with  a streaming service? The future of storytelling! Transmedia Story Stream is a revolutionary new platform that allows storytellers to create story worlds that can include written word, video, audio, casual games, and live events. Within Transmedia Story Stream, fans can immerse themselves in their favorite story world and earn points, rewards, digital badges, and collectibles that can be shared with friends. Mixing the power of video games and social media into a narrative allows for a transformed reading experience.  

The Transmedia Story Stream platform is being built on the Pubsoft HTML5 publishing ecosystem, which allows storytellers to implement a direct sales system for their digital products. Having a direct sales system for digital products means creators can now own their audiences, which brings down the long-term cost of marketing and allows a storyteller inventive opportunities to directly engage their fans.

"As a transmedia producer and author, I got tired of chasing my audience across multiple websites (Amazon, Apple, GooglePlay, YouTube, etc.)," notes Karen Snyder, Lead Visionary and UI Designer for the Transmedia Story Stream. "And the marketing dollars! Each site wants me to spend money to promote them, yet I cannot directly touch my audience to reward or engage fans. And what of the convergence of media? Each site seeks to split my story into separate silos even though consumers are mixing entertainment habits as never before. As I encountered these problems, I resolved to find a solution. What about a connected book? One that was alive with people and offered ways to immediately reward a fan for engaging with the story? With Pubsoft's assistance, Transmedia Story Stream is the solution to solving distributor gaps and empowering other storytellers to extend their stories to meet the demands of today's audience."

"We're excited to be a part of this project because we see the potential for growth. How many of us have played online social and casual games like Words With Friends or Candy Crush for hours without realizing it? What if games such as those were incorporated into some of our favorite story lines, like Twilight, and Harry Potter? What if participating in different activities provided different additional parts of the story that could only be unlocked by experiencing it in a different way? We don't want to diminish the traditional narrative form so much as we want authors to have the ability to add to it," said Heather Wied, Marketing Director for Pubsoft.

Initially the platform will be open to the romance genre author. The romance audience, women aged 35-54 years, are the dominant casual video game players. This audience of social game players ties in perfectly with romance ebook readers. Transmedia Story Stream will provide a way for authors to merge the current entertainment habits of romance readers into one enhanced story experience. Eventually, the platform will be open to other fiction genres.

The platform is now seeking storytellers who want to join in the future of storytelling. Authors can register accounts to begin alpha testing to refine product development. (http://www.kazapme.com/join-the-future.html).  The Transmedia Story Stream team will also be launching a Kickstarter campaign in early 2014.

Hammacher Schlemmer Introduces 3D Tablet

Hammacher Schlemmer introduces The No Glasses 3D Tablet, the only mobile tablet that displays 3D movies and images without glasses.

Using a parallax barrier laid atop its 8" LCD screen, The No Glasses 3D Tablet delivers a slightly different set of pixels to each eye, creating depth of field without uncomfortable, color-distorting lenses.

"You can watch 3D video anywhere without glasses," explained Hammacher Schlemmer's General Manager Fred Berns. "The No Glasses 3D Tablet is like having your own personal 3D movie screen, but without the glasses."

The No Glasses 3D Tablet uses the Android 4.1 operating system, provides 1080p HD resolution, and communicates with other devices via Bluetooth. It also has two cameras—a rear 2 MP for stills and video and a front 0.3 MP for video calls.

The No Glasses 3D Tablet is available from Hammacher Schlemmer for $349.95. 

Sennheiser Announces PRESENCE Mobile Headset

 Sennheiser announced the launch of its PRESENCE™ premium-quality mobile headset, a solution for consumers and business professionals requiring outstanding sound quality and HD voice clarity – whether around the office, in the car or outdoors. Building on Sennheiser's 70-year legacy of sound leadership, the PRESENCE features the latest Bluetooth® 4.0 technology, as well as Sennheiser's new SpeakFocus™ and WindSafe™ technologies. The combination of these innovations delivers a high quality, professional communication experience for mobile users, regardless of their location.

As consumers are constantly on the go and business professionals increasingly work from locations away from the office, they are all still expected to maintain clear communications and therefore require technology they can rely on in any environment. PRESENCE mobile headset ensures sonic clarity and outstanding audio quality in a slim and aesthetically attractive design that is simple to operate.

Innovations for a Superior Mobile Communications Experience

PRESENCE is equipped with Sennheiser HD voice clarity, enabling a superior listening experience. Each PRESENCE headset is also equipped with three digital microphones and the new SpeakFocus technology, which detects the user's voice while filtering out background noise. This allows users to make phone calls in noisy environments and provide listeners with a professional, crystal clear sound experience.

Sennheiser's WindSafe technology reduces wind noise effectively, reducing one of the biggest annoyances for the listener at the other end of the line. To do this, the PRESENCE automatically chooses the best mix of the three microphones and processes the sound to determine the optimal way to balance and enhance the voice of the user. To safeguard users against hazardous noises that can be dangerous to hearing, the headset is also equipped with Sennheiser's uniquely patented ActiveGard® hearing protection system.

The PRESENCE solution consists of a headset and a USB dongle that allows for a 'plug and play' experience with computers – enabling seamless switching between a mobile phone and the Unified Communications client. The headset also features real-time battery monitoring, talk time of up to 10 hours and a range of up to 82 feet depending on the environment and the device it is being used with. With a sleek and iconic design, PRESENCE looks as good as it sounds and is lightweight at just 13 grams.

Tori Seliokas, Channel Manager, Telecommunications at Sennheiser, said: "With the evolution of the modern enterprise towards more flexible, agile working practices that allow people to work remotely and across multiple locations, there is a need for a high-quality headset solution that can meet these demands. PRESENCE incorporates Sennheiser's latest innovations – the SpeakFocus and WindSafe technologies – providing users with outstanding sound quality and performance they will appreciate wherever they are."

The Sennheiser PRESENCE is priced at $179.95 and is available now.

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