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Robosapien By WowWee Toys Ltd. "Taking a major step forward in the evolution of robotics, WowWee Toys Ltd. has teamed up with robotics physicist, Dr. Mark W. Tilden to develop the first affordable intelligent entertainment humanoid -- Robosapien. At 14 inches high, Robosapien is a rambunctious, realistic, recreational robot who is easily programmed and mastered with a remote control.Robosapien is the first robot based on the science of applied biomorphic robotics, which enables him to act more like a human. Tilden, who developed applied biomorphic robotics, has worked for NASA, DARPA, JPL at Los Alamos and other government research agencies developing advanced robotic technologies. Feisty, moody and filled with personality, Robosapien is a humanoid with attitude that comes to life at your command and performs amazing tasks. Using the ergonomic remote control, you can command Robosapien to perform up to 67 pre-programmed functions including pick-up, throw, high-five, whistle, dance and three different karate moves. Robosapien takes entertainment robotics to a new level of technology. Fully programmable, Robosapien can perform a programmed chain of commands in any combination of moves that you select. For example, you can create your own dance sequence or program him to walk straight, turn left and give your buddy a high five." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Whiptail Interactive, Midway, Mythic Entertainment, Logitech, and Shrapnel Games in News. |
The Foretrex 201 Personal Navigator "The Foretrex 201 from Garmin International is a wearable Personal Navigator, perfect for outdoor and marine enthusiasts who desire hands-free GPS navigation in a lightweight, affordable package. At a mere 2.75 ounces, this waterproof wonder is lighter than most watches, and its wrist-top mount frees up hands for outdoor activities. Sporting an ergonomic wristband, the Foretrex 201 is similar in design to the Forerunner 201, yet is chocked full of GPS navigation features found in Garmin's popular Geko 201 unit.With a user-friendly interface, the rugged Foretrex 201 simplifies navigation, making it ideal for the backcountry or water. Its six dedicated buttons (GoTo, Page, Enter/Mark, Up, Down and Power) make it easy to operate. It offers the most essential navigation data — enhanced GPS accuracy, extensive storage for waypoints, and reversible routes and tracks — on an easy-to-read display. Don't worry about packing extra batteries, because the Foretrex 201 runs on an internal lithium battery for 15 hours (typical use). Simply recharge and go. The Foretrex 201 also comes equipped with special features sure to please mariners and hikers alike. It includes a unique application for sailing and paragliding racers that allows them to configure the start sequence of a race. The countdown is displayed in a large-number format that audibly alerts the user at each phase of the start sequence. With the help of Garmin's exclusive TracBack technology, hikers can mark a campsite, go trekking all day, and follow the electronic 'breadcrumb trail' back to camp in time for dinner." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Primera Technology, Extensis, Peachpit Press, Copernic, and Toshiba in News. |
Activision’s New Pitfall: The Lost Expedition "It’s time to swing into action as legendary explorer Pitfall Harry in Activision, Inc.’s Pitfall®: The Lost Expedition™, the latest installment in the company’s flagship Pitfall® franchise. Gamers will use Harry’s wit, athleticism and a knapsack of adventure gear to conquer evil foes in more than 50 obstacle-filled levels set in the lush jungles, dark caverns, and ancient Incan ruins of the South American jungle. Pitfall: The Lost Expedition has been rated “E” (Everyone) by the ESRB and is available in North American retail stores for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, the Xbox® video game system from Microsoft, and the Nintendo GameCube for a suggested retail price of $39.99 and on the Game Boy Advance for $29.99.In Pitfall: The Lost Expedition, gamers embark on an adventure to rescue a lost expedition, stop a vengeful high priest, prevent an archrival from stealing treasures and help a princess fulfill her destiny. Players swing, fight, climb and crawl through more than 50 challenging levels set in unique environments from ancient ruins to treacherous mountain ranges where they must overcome obstacles, brave the elements and battle a host of enemies from scorpions, bats, and piranhas, to insects, natives, mercenaries, bush ninjas and monkeys. Fast-paced transitions allow players to jump between adventure and puzzle levels and branching pathways give them the power to choose where to go next. As gamers progress through the game, they will have the ability to complete heroic feats, collect idols and redeem them for upgrades and compete in Native mini-games to hone their skills. With Total Havok’s physics technology, objects like swaying vines and floating icebergs react to their environments in a highly detailed and realistic manner. As an added bonus, the original Atari® 2600 versions of Pitfall!® and Pitfall 2 are unlockable as players make their way through the game." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Whiptail Interactive, Activision, Codemasters, NCSoft, Electronic Arts, and Namco in News. |
Namco TV Games "Namco TV Games (from JAKKS Pacific, Inc.) is a plug and play, gaming system that contains multiple classic games in one single controller. The controller houses five of the original coin-op arcade games from the 1980s, including Pac-Man(TM), Dig Dug(TM), Galaxian(TM), Rally-X(TM), and Bosconian(TM).All that is needed are batteries and a TV -- No videogame consoles and no gaming cartridges are required! Simply plug TV Games into the A/V jacks of any standard television set, turn on and play! The lightweight, compact, all-inclusive controller, houses a combination of videogames with all of the hardware built right into the controller. This technology allows gaming fans to enjoy a number of videogames with just one single purchase. JAKKS' TV Games line also includes Atari(R) TV Games and Activision(R) TV Games, which feature vintage videogames with original retro graphics and sounds from classic videogame of the past, with a SpongeBob SquarePants TV Games expected to hit retail shelves beginning in early 2004." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from JAKKS Pacific, Microsoft Games, Activision, Shrapnel Games, and Kuma Reality Games in News. |
The LAKS Memory Music - An MP3 Player on Your Wrist "You can carry your favourite music on your wrist. Via a discreet MP3 player, you can record and play up to 60 songs. That corresponds to a playing time of 4 to 5 hours, and the battery is charged via the integrated USB cable. Depending on the model,
the memory capacity of the “LAKS Memory Music” can be 256 MB, 128 MB, 64 MB or 32 MB.A Voice-Recorder on your wrist - An integrated voice recorder can be used to record "unreproducible children's stories”, meetings, messages, songs or your own reminders. The USB socket built into the wrist strap makes it possible to transfer this data easily to any PC and edit it. A "hard disk“ on your wrist - The "LAKS Memory Music” is a practical, multifunctional device with a dynamic design, equipped with a high quality watch. The four functions run independently. The successful LAKS memory, the so-called “hard disk for your wrist”, is already very poplar and has so far been sold successfully in 23 countries. The LAKS Memory Music will be available in March 2004." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from No Starch Press, Corel, DotPhoto, StealthSurfer, and IOPlus USA in News. |
Champions of Norrath "Sony Online Entertainment Inc. (SOE), a worldwide leader in massively multiplayer online gaming, today announced that Champions of Norrath has shipped to North American retail stores. Champions of Norrath, available exclusively on the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system, brings gamers into its immersive fantasy universe as they experience exciting hack-and-slash action. Champions of Norrath has more game features than any other game in the genre, including five playable character types, randomly generated dungeons and voice chat during online, four players co-op action. Champions of Norrath carries a suggested retail price of $49.99.Champions of Norrath features thousands of items, weapons and spells, unparalleled character customization, randomly generated dungeons that create a different and unique gameplay experience with each adventure, online and offline cooperative multiplayer adventuring, and an amazingly detailed 3D engine with multiple camera angles. Champions of Norrath offers an online multiplayer component for no additional cost to players (players are responsible for providing a broadband internet connection for online play). Champions of Norrath allows gamers to adventure as one of five playable characters who must journey from the Elven tree city of Kelethin into the wilds of Norrath to save the land from a gathering army of evil. Champions offers up to 70 hours of gameplay per character and fierce battles, deadly missions and unmatched character customization." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from SEGA, Majesco, Encore, Sammy Studios, Got Game Entertainment, Activision, Microsoft Games, and Codemasters in News. |
Fujifilm Unveils Sleek New 3.2 and 4.0 Megapixel Cameras "Fuji Photo Film U.S.A., Inc. added two sleek new entry-level models to its award-winning family of FinePix digital cameras. The FinePix A330 and the FinePix A340 offer faster operation times and improved power consumption with new, user-friendly menu navigation. The cameras allow first-time digital photographers to capture great pictures easily, while keeping the overall experience simple and fun.The FinePix A330 offers 3.2 million effective pixels and a 3x optical zoom to capture bright, vivid images, while the FinePix A340 offers picture-takers 4.0 million effective pixels, combined with a 3x optical zoom, for printed images that look as real as life. Both cameras offer streamlined menu navigation, a quick playback mode and a slide-powered boot-up in sleek metallic bodies. The cameras offer four scene position modes usually found in more advanced Fujifilm cameras, including portrait, night, sports and landscape settings. The macro setting on both cameras allow users to capture images of items only 4 inches away from the lens. In addition, AVI movies can be captured at a rate of 10 frames per second. The FinePix A330 and A340 are compatible with the optional Fujifilm Picture Cradle, which allows easy optional NH-10 battery recharging, as well as streamlined image downloads and video playback when connected to a television set." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Copernic, ScreenTime Media, Syngress Publishing, Primera Technology, Alera Technologies, and Sony in News. |
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Aerial Antics and 3D Mahjong Solitaire GarageGames announced today the launch of Aerial Antics from Leadfoot Productions and 3D Mahjong from GameShapers both for Windows based PCs.  "Ever wanted to know what it feels like to have a rocket strapped to your back? Aerial Antics puts players in the pilot's seat of a single person jet pack where becoming the world's best aerial performer is your goal. The innovative physics based gameplay not only allows players to control jet pack thrust but also pitch and yaw. Control is virtually effortless as players can use this to control their movement in a free flowing manner. Aerial Antics spans five unique locales with fifty levels and a plethora of unique and challenging scenarios." Click here for more information. "Taking a classic game to a new level is 3D Mahjong Solitaire. Forcing the player to think in three dimensions, 3D Mahjong Solitaire introduces the use of elevated layouts, featuring spanning bridges and multiple layers. Using photorealistic artwork, real-time 3DFX, dynamic lighting and tranquil multi-layered audio, 3D Mahjong Solitaire is truly a captivating and surreal experience. Other key features include twenty original and classic layouts, billions of unique games, classic as well as kids tile sets and in-game super hints all combine to provide a fun and lasting challenge for novices and masters alike." Click here for more information.Also, new announcements from Gathering, THQ, Evolved Games, Vivendi Universal Games, Whiptail Interactive, and Activision in News. |
The Canon ZR90 Mini DV Camcorder "Whether spending a summer day at the beach, viewing the beauty of crisp fall foliage, or celebrating the joy and warmth of the holiday season, Canon's new ZR90 camcorder gives you the power to make time stand still. Featuring Canon's exceptional 22x Optical Zoom Lens and state-of-the-art DIGIC DV technology, the ZR90 delivers ultra-clear images in stunning real-life color.The Canon ZR90 is the most powerful and versatile camcorder in the ZR series, with powerful DIGIC DV and VIC imaging technologies, enhanced low-light image capture and exceptional digital connectivity. Capture life's precious moments the way you want them to be remembered, thanks to the Canon ZR90 camcorder. Your Canon ZR90 comes complete with a host of Genuine Canon Accessories, including a low-consumption Lithium-Ion Battery Pack, Compact Power Adapter, Shoulder Strap, Stereo Video Cable, and WA-30.5 Wide Attachment. The supplied Wireless Remote Control, 8M SD Memory Card, USB Cable, and DIGITAL VIDEO SOLUTION DISK for Windows and Macintosh, further extends your video- and photo-making capabilities." Click here for more information. Today's New Technology Books: * The Little Digital Video Book * Editing Digital Video : The Complete Creative and Technical Guide * Digital Video For Dummies * Digital Filmmaking 101: An Essential Guide to Producing Low Budget Movies * Making Documentary Films and Reality Videos: A Practical Guide to Planning, Filming, and Editing Documentaries of Real Events Also, new announcements from McGraw/Hill Osborne, Memorex, Keyspan, and Pinnacle Systems in News. |
Mad Catz GameShark SharkBoard "Mad Catz Interactive, Inc., the world's leading third party video game enhancement and accessories manufacturer, announced the launch of the SharkBoard from GameShark. The much-anticipated release of the SharkBoard offers gamers a full-size, fully-functional USB keyboard designed to quickly and easily enter the latest codes, game titles and code descriptions for all the newest and hottest PlayStation 2 games as well as keyboard support for all PlayStation 2 and GameCube online games.A complete online gaming solution, the GameShark SharkBoard keyboard simply plugs into the PlayStation 2, GameCube or PC and brings gaming to a whole new level. For GameShark users, the GameShark SharkBoard dramatically speeds up the process of code entry allowing for a quick and seamless process. Players can update their current GameShark software with all the latest codes from the dedicated website www.gameshark.com The GameShark SharkBoard supports all of the hottest online games making online gaming more user friendly. Gamers can communicate instantly without the hassle of navigating through a standard controller." Click here for more information. Today's New Gaming Books: * Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time Official Strategy Guide * Dungeons and Dreamers: The Rise of Computer Game Culture from Geek to Chic * Soul Calibur 2 Official Fighter's Guide * Enter the Matrix Official Strategy Guide * Opening the Xbox * The Ultimate History of Video Games: From Pong to Pokemon Also, new announcements from Activision, Shrapnel Games, SEGA, Crave Entertainment, and Mythic Entertainment in News. |
U-Key-Com FIDA USB 2.0 Flash Drive with Fingerprint ID Authentication "Think Computer Products announced the launch of the U-Key-Com FIDA Drive, a USB 2.0 portable flash storage device that incorporates a fingerprint sensor for access to the secure storage partition. The FIDA drive has several distinct features that set it apart from the competition. The drives range in capacity from 64Mb to 2Gb, while a 4Gb is planned for release in Q1 2004. The unit is initialized by an administrator, and supports up to 16 separate fingerprints, providing access for multiple users at the discretion of the administrator. The drive features two partitions; one is public and can be read from any system with a USB port, while the other sector is secure, requiring fingerprint authentication to access the data. The administrator can adjust the capacity of the public and secure sectors based on preference; the administrator may opt to reduce the secure sector from 50% to 20% for example. To further secure the data, the drive uses AES based encryption ("Rjandel") providing encryption/decryption "on-the-fly." The user can optionally choose a password of up to 35 characters for added protection." Click here for more information. Today's New Technology Books: * Hardware Hacking Projects for Geeks * Hacking the Xbox Game System * Windows Xp Hacks * Windows XP Annoyances Also, new announcements from Liti3D, Lexmark, O'Reilly Publishing, ATI, and NewsGator Online Services in News. |
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Saitek Industries R440 Force Feedback Driving Wheel With a sleek new design and look, the wheel offers a wider-range of control and functionality that is more intuitive and comfortable than past driving peripherals through the implementation of an improved gas pedal that puts less stress on the foot. The wheel was made to enhance the driving experience when used in conjunction with the latest PC game releases such City Racer, Dirt Track Racing: Sprint Cars and Ford Racing 2. R440 Wheel Features: TouchSense Technology; Four wheel mounted buttons; Two gearshift paddles; Gas and brake pedals; Easy plug-and-play USB connection. The R440 Wheel is now available at local computer retailers. Click here for more information. Today's New Gaming Books: * Final Fantasy X-2 Official Strategy Guide * Pokemon Ruby & Sapphire: Prima's Official Strategy Guide * URU: Ages Beyond Myst : Prima's Official Strategy Guide * Ratchet & Clank: Going Commando Official Strategy Guide * The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker Official Strategy Guide for GameCube * Sonic Heroes : Prima's Official Strategy Guide * The Lord of the Rings - The Return of the King (Prima's Offical Strategy Guide) * The Sims Bustin' Out : Prima's Official Strategy Guide Also, new announcements from SEGA, Blizzard, Gamebike, Shrapnel Games, Eidos, Codemasters, and Activision in News. |
The DiskGO! USB Watch Drive "Peripheral Enhancements Corporation, a leading manufacturer of computer memory, digital media products, and USB storage devices announced today the launch of the DiskGO! USB Watch Drive - Steel Dress Style product. This new product is the latest addition to the company's fast-growing DiskGO! consumer product line.The new style of DiskGO! USB Watch Drive is now available for sale at any of the company's reseller and distribution partners and is available in 128MB and 256MB capacities. The manufacturer's suggested retail price is $99.95 for the 128MB and $149.95 for the 256MB. The product ships with two USB extension cables and comes with a one year limited manufacturer's warranty. The DiskGO! USB Watch Drive - Steel Dress Style allows users to quickly and easily store and transfer presentations, photos, MP3s, and other files to the device. As a fully functional watch with luminescent hands and a stylish brushed stainless steel band, the device provides users a portable and secure means of transporting important data in a sleek and fashionable style." Click here for more information. Today's New Technology Books: * Adobe Creative Suite Idea Kit * Planting Your Family Tree Online : How to Create Your Own Family History Web Site * Microsoft Windows Movie Maker 2: Do Amazing Things * Teach Yourself VISUALLY Digital Photography, Second Edition * Designing a Digital Portfolio * Anti-Hacker Tool Kit, Second Edition * How to Do Everything with Microsoft Digital Image Pro 9 Also, new announcements from Actiontec, Pixa, SanDisk, Lexar Media, Nikon, and Cobra Electronics in News. |
The Shuttle XPC Zen SFF Computer System "Shuttle Inc., a leading provider of small form-factor (SFF) computers and mainboards, has introduced the XPC Zen (ST62K). Built around the revolutionary ATI RADEON 9100 chipset, this highly-advanced SFF computer delivers leading-edge integrated graphics performance and redefines the standard for low-noise, low-temperature operation.This completely new, re-engineered SFF computer delivers slick consumer styling and incredible integrated graphics performance. Further, with support for Intel Pentium 4 and Celeron processors, and dual-channel DDR400 memory, XPC Zen delivers incredible power despite its small size and 'Super Quiet, Super Cool' operation. Shuttle's XPC Zen is housed in the all-new 'K' enclosure featuring stylish 'pearl' colored front panel with attractive rounded corners and edges. XPC Zen marks a new milestone in small form factor environmental and ergonomic design." Click here for more information. Today's New Technology Books: * The Adobe Photoshop CS Book for Digital Photographers * Adobe Photoshop 7.0 Classroom in a Book * Final Fantasy X-2 Official Strategy Guide * Windows XP for Dummies * Starting an eBay Business for Dummies * Digital Decorating: Designs and Projects from Your Home Computer Also, new announcements from American Power Conversion, SanDisk, ActionTec, Macromedia, and Paraglyph Press in News. |
FINAL FANTASY X-2 Hits Million-Unit Sales Mark "Square Enix U.S.A., Inc. announced that FINAL FANTASY X-2, a PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system exclusive and the first female-led FINAL FANTASY game in the franchise's history, has sold more than one million units in North America.FINAL FANTASY X-2 is the first sequel in the long respected series. While keeping the series' traditions, the sequel stays fresh with several new elements. Among them, the reintroduction of the ATB (active time battle) system accelerates the pace and excitement of battles. FINAL FANTASY X-2 is also the first mission-based FINAL FANTASY, allowing for non-linear gameplay and features new and unique job classes, which provide diverse looks for the leading female characters and an enhanced character development system. The first female-led FINAL FANTASY hails the return of a free-spirited Yuna, her enthusiastic cousin Rikku and introduces Paine, their sarcastic, hardnosed friend. The game is filled with light-hearted and melancholy moments, fueled by a tragic story of unrequited love and ominous secrets that threaten the peace of their world, Spira." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Encore, Midway Games, Apex Digital, Kuma Reality Games, Sammy Studios, ESPN Videogames, Gamer.Tv, and Elkware in News. |
HiStar Hands-Free Headset Binoculars HiStar, Inc. is proud to introduce its line of hands-free binoculars. The headset features a padded, adjustable headband and focus-free, wide-angle binoculars. Optional radio headphones are a welcome addition to this patented combination."Our new T-8000 Series is a revolution in the binocular industry. With its hands-free capability a new genre of binocular technology is revealed. This feature-rich binocular will be an asset to sports enthusiasts, nature buffs and surveillance users," said President and CEO of HiStar, Inc., Mr. Tristram Himmele. "Our patented technology is an innovative approach to enhancing the viewing experience. Previously, spectators were forced to deal with the awkwardness of traditional binoculars. Now, extended binocular viewing can be experienced hands-free, in addition the optional AM/FM radio combination allows spectators to hear the play by play of their favorite sporting event." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Zvetco Biometrics, Corel, Ulead, Peachpit Press, SMC, and TechSmith in News. |
Gamepod by Loftgoods "Gamepod integrates high quality audio and tactile sound and embeds the technology in a high-style, comfortable, upholstered chair that turns heads with its good looks, and for the way it totally changes the video game and movie-watching experience."There is a huge gap in the interactive furniture category," said Paul Wong, CEO of Loftgoods, manufacturer of the Gamepod. "The product at the low end is chiefly plastic and uncomfortable, and home theater seating retails for well over $1,000, and is so largely scaled that few homes can accommodate it. Gamepod is the first gaming furniture that is designed to deliver true comfort, high style and unbelievable technology." "Driving the Gamepod is a 300-watt amplifier, two coaxial speakers and a tactile transducer embedded in the frame. Built by Clark Synthesis, supplier to the leading theme parks and armed forces flight simulators, Gamepod's transducer delivers a tactile experience unmatched by other products. "[Clark's] tagline is 'full contact audio'," said Wong. "It fits." Loftgoods has given Gamepod plug-and-play simplicity. The chair works with all major gaming and home theater systems, Macs, PCs, Gameboys, DVDs and VCRs. Users can control audio volume and balance the tactile and audio sound - more sound, less shake, and vice versa. The chairs are easily daisy chained so homes with multiple players can keep everyone happy." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Electronic Arts, Interplay, Acclaim, Whiptail Interactive, Square Enix, Codemasters, Sammy Studios, and Shrapnel Games in News. |
The Magellan RoadMate 500 and 700 "The groundbreaking new Magellan RoadMate 700 and 500 (from Thales Navigation) both provide an advanced user interface for unrivaled ease of use; voice-prompted, turn-by-turn directions; a color, touch-screen display; and WAAS capabilities to ensure the driver is always precisely guided. From the road warrior to the soccer mom to the vacation traveler and multi-car family -- any driver can gain time-saving efficiency and peace of mind without purchasing a new GPS-equipped car.The Magellan RoadMate 500 and 700 are the first cost-efficient, portable solutions to offer simple, yet fully featured street navigation for any driver of any car. Compact and lightweight, Magellan RoadMate sets up for use in minutes without professional installation and the added cost and time associated with it. In addition, a large high-resolution color touch screen, high-quality voice guidance prompts, and a wide array of mounting and faceplate options make the Magellan RoadMate series the new standard in portable car navigation. Using the touch-screen or keypad, drivers can either enter a destination from the points of interest database, from their personal address book of up to 100 destinations, or as a street address. Both the Magellan RoadMate 700 and 500 offer users the choice of selecting a route dictated by the 'Shortest Time,' 'Shortest Distance,' 'Least Use of Freeways' or 'Most Use of Freeways.' In addition, the system automatically recalculates a route after a missed turn. Both systems display a clearly visible, full-color route on a moving map to show the driver's progress. The route is also displayed as text directions and as a graphic showing one turn at a time. At all times, the convenient turn-by-turn, voice-prompted guidance minimizes the driver's need to view the display." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Belkin Corporation, Targus Inc., XIMETA, Keyspan, Ulead Systems, Wave Industries, and Que Publishing in News. |
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DISCover PC Game Consoles Launched at CES "Digital Interactive Systems Corp. (DISC) today formally debuted the first next-generation game console, DISCover, at the International Consumer Electronics Show (CES). DISCover PC Game Console technology gives Apex Digital and Alienware a way to enter the lucrative $13 billion game console market without having to spend hundreds of millions to first develop their own proprietary games. Apex Digital and Alienware DISCover consoles play thousands of unmodified PC games on a television or home entertainment system. Only DISCover offers true console capabilities for unmodified PC games. Users simply drop a game CD into a console and start playing using DISCover's Drop & Play technology. DISCover technology works transparently to automatically configure games for no-hassle convenience. This enables gamers playing on home entertainment systems (including HDTVs) to enjoy a new level of audio and visual excitement. In addition, while the major videogame console vendors are just beginning to develop online gaming capabilities, DISC is partnering with GameSpy to immediately enable DISCover users to gain access to the world's largest community of online PC game enthusiasts via a built-in DISCover Arcade." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Nyko, Logitech, Inspiration Games, Activision, and Shrapnel Games in News. |
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Macromedia Announces Macromedia Director MX 2004 "Macromedia announced Macromedia Director MX 2004, the latest version of the industry standard multimedia authoring tool. Macromedia Director has been at the forefront of multimedia development for more than a decade, and this latest version adds support for JavaScript, Flash MX 2004 content, DVD-Video, and the ability to create projector files for both Mac and Windows platforms in one simple step. Macromedia Director MX 2004 enables developers to unleash their creativity and build rich, interactive experiences that deliver measurable results. Macromedia Director MX 2004 empowers professional multimedia developers, advanced Flash developers, professional DVD developers, e-learning designers, and game developers who need to create multimedia content that can be deployed anywhere, whether it be CD, DVD, intranets, kiosks, or the Internet. Director MX 2004 supports most major video, audio, bitmap, 3D, and vector formats to give developers the broadest content palette from which to deliver sophisticated, compelling user experiences. Extensive video capabilities within Director MX 2004 allow developers to stream video files in DVD-Video, Windows Media, RealMedia, QuickTime, and Flash formats. The product has also added new features to make developers more efficient and productive. Interactivity within projects can now be scripted directly using JavaScript, Lingo, or a combination of both. Content can be published to both Macintosh and Windows, and online across different platforms, in one simple step. The ability to name sprites and channels enabled workflow efficiencies for the production of content within Director." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from McGraw-Hill/Osborne, NETGEAR, Harman Multimedia, Omnifi Media, Belkin, and CyberLink in News. |
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Sonic Heroes Ships "SEGA of America today announced the launch of Sonic Heroes for Nintendo GameCube -- the first original Sonic The Hedgehog console game in three years. SEGA's most anticipated game launch of the year is expected to ship on Microsoft Xbox and Sony PlayStation 2 January 27. Sonic Heroes challenges gamers to control three characters simultaneously, each offering the unique individual ability of speed, power or flight. Multiple teams follow their own unique story paths across 14 massive stages. Their combined objective: to thwart the plans of Sonic's arch nemesis, the nefarious Dr. Eggman. Sonic Heroes is designed to appeal to players of all ages and skill levels as they experiment with four unique teams comprised of classic Sonic friends and foes for a total of 12 playable characters. Sonic Heroes changes the face of Sonic the Hedgehog and action-platform games in general by offering innovative design while still maintaining the unrelenting action and speed that made the Sonic franchise so enduring over the years. Sonic Heroes also includes seven multi-player mini-games to ensure maximum replay value." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Gamerang, Shrapnel Games, Ubi Soft, Mad Catz, GarageGames, and Vivendi Universal Games in News. |
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The Linksys EtherFast 120GB Network Storage Device with PrintServer "Linksys, a division of Cisco Systems Inc., the leading provider of broadband, wireless and networking hardware for the consumer and Small Office/Home Office (SOHO) markets, announced the new EtherFast 120GB Network Storage Device with PrintServer (EFG120) that provides file and printer sharing as well as backup and remote management via the Internet. Linksys has developed the new network storage device to provide an economical and simple way to store data and content accumulated by office users. The new Linksys network storage appliance offers 120GB of IDE hard drive storage space in a new sleek silver design that stands upright for small spaces or lays flat on the desktop. Storage capacity can increase to 370GB by adding a 250GB drive to the empty second drive bay. For maximum storage, add a second 250GB drive by replacing the built-in drive to get up to 500GB. IDC, a market research firm, reports that the storage capacity for businesses is growing an estimated 49 percent annually. The Linksys EFG120 is gigabit ready with a 10/100/1000 port, which can connect the network storage to a gigabit backbone. It can also connect to wireless network in areas where there are no Ethernet connections by using the Linksys Ethernet Wireless-G Bridge (WET54G)." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from SMC, REAL Software, ArcSoft, CyberMatrix Corporation, and CyberLink in News. |
 Happy New Year!NewTechReview will be taking a few days off to celebrate the New Year holiday. The next site update will be on Monday, January 5th. Thanks to everyone for all your participation and support here at NewTechReview. There are many wonderful new things coming up for NewTechReview readers in the coming year. May we all have a great new year in 2004! Happy New Year! Scott |
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Pacific Digital Mach-8 8X DVD Multi+/-Format Burner "Pacific Digital Corp. expanded its storage product line recently when it added the Pacific Digital Mach-8, an 8X DVD Multi+/-Format Burner for PCs. The internal drive comes bundled with DVD and CD creation software, as well as DVD video playback software. A complete solution for data backup, storage and distribution, the new drive can be used for everything from sharing films and music to archiving 4.7GB of content on one DVD disc. The Mach-8 DVD Burner is fast and reliable, and can record an hour of video onto a DVD+ disc in just 8 minutes. With 8 drives in one, the new drive supports DVD+RW, DVD+R, DVD-RW and DVD-R formats and enables PC users to create DVD discs that can be played on virtually any DVD video player or drive. It writes to DVD+R discs at 8x, to DVD-R at 4x, to CD-R at 40x, and to CD-RW at 24x speeds. It reads DVD+RW, DVD+R, DVD-RW and DVD-R formats at 8x, DVD-ROM at 12x and CD-ROM at 40x speeds. The internal drive (U-30201) is available now at an MSRP of $179. An external USB 2.0 model (U-30202) will be available at the end of December." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Ulead Systems, REAL Software, and Aladdin Systems in News. |
 Happy Holidays!NewTechReview will be taking a few days off to celebrate the Christmas holiday here in the U.S.A. The next web site update will be on Monday, December 29th. Thanks to everyone for all your participation and support here at NewTechReview. And to those that also celebrate Christmas, have a safe and wonderful holiday weekend! All my best, Scott |
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Midway Launches Official The Suffering Website "Midway Games Inc., a leading software industry publisher and developer, announced the launch of the official website for The Suffering. Players can now step into the seedy underbelly of a maximum security penitentiary that is The Suffering by visiting www.thesuffering.midway.com. The Suffering revolutionizes the horror genre by combining intense action-oriented game-play with an authentic prison environment haunted by ghoulish apparitions. Traverse the intense and shocking world of a maximum security penitentiary in the role of Torque, an inmate accused of a brutal crime he may or may not have committed. Trapped in this ghastly environment and beset by horrific creatures, Torque is constantly challenged to stay alive and wield all manner of weapons in his fight to escape the nightmare that has been unleashed on Abbott Penitentiary. The Suffering will be available on March 8, 2004 for the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system and the Xbox video game system from Microsoft." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Rockstar Games, Whiptail Interactive, Activision, Vivendi Universal Games, Crave Entertainment, S2 Games, Interplay, and Shrapnel Games in News. |
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Omnifi Wireless Home Stereo/Theater Digital Media Streamer "Rockford Corporation and RealNetworks announced that the Omnifi home stereo/theater wireless digital media streamer is now interoperable with the award-winning Rhapsody Internet jukebox service, making Rhapsody the first digital music service to enable consumers to control and listen to the service in their living room. The Omnifi digital media streamer enables broadband-connected consumers to link their PC and high-fidelity home stereo and theater systems to enjoy Rhapsody's library of more than 30,000 CDs throughout their homes. The Omnifi home audio/home theater product is a stand-alone receiver capable of streaming media from consumers' personal computers to their home stereo and home theater systems utilizing their existing wired and/or wireless 802.11B home networks. Omnifi gives consumers the ability to easily transmit entertainment content from the PC hard drive to consumers' home stereo/theater systems. In the past year, the Omnifi has won a number of prestigious awards, including the CEA "2003 Best of Innovations" award at CES 2003 and TechTV's "Best of CES" award. Priced at $299, the device began shipping in August and now supports Rhapsody." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Peachpit Press, GlobalScape, and Magix in News. |
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RadioShack Is Your RC Headquarters for the Holidays "Whether for Land, Air or Water, Today's New RC Vehicles Are Sure to Please Anyone on Your Shopping List. Last year, children across the country went crazy for ZipZaps, RadioShack's exclusive brand of micro-radio controlled cars. This holiday season, RadioShack is back with new and improved ZipZaps products; XMODS, the company's newest brand of customizable RC cars; and a host of other RC vehicles that are sure to thrill the RC enthusiast on your holiday list. 'RadioShack has always been a leader in the RC vehicle market, and this year's holiday lineup is already proving to be a hit,' said Don Carroll, senior vice president, marketing for RadioShack Corporation. 'Whether you're shopping for a motorcycle enthusiast, a lover of luxury cars, a pilot, a submarine fan or a child that loves cartoons, RadioShack has a remote control vehicle to meet your needs.' Check out these new remote control products at your neighborhood RadioShack store: XMODS Custom RCs; ZipZaps Micro RCs and ZipZaps SE Micro RCs; Honda CR250R Motocross Bike Featuring Ricky Carmichael; Spin Master Air Hogs Defender Mini RC Plane; BRUM Preschool Radio Control Car; The Cat in the Hat S.L.O.W. RC Vehicle; Radio Control Mako Mini-Sub." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Electronic Arts, Running With Scissors, Blizzard, Whiptail Interactive, Got Game Entertainment, Netamin, and EA/Maxis in News. |
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K8Xtreme Super-Fast 8x Dual-Format DVD+RW/R and DVD-RW/R Drive "Kano Technologies introduces its super-fast 8x dual-format DVD+RW/R and DVD-RW/R drive. The K8Xtreme has an 8x write speed for both DVD+R and -R media, and can record an entire DVD in less than 15 minutes. At this time, it is the only drive capable of 8x recording on Verbatim 4x -R media, which allows users to take advantage of 4x media availability and pricing. K8Xtreme can also write to and read CD media at 32x16x40x speeds, and can read DVD-ROM at a speed of 12x. A complete storage solution, with a capacity of 4.7GB per DVD, the K8Xtreme is the perfect choice for video and audio archiving, and data backup and archiving. The new drive is available now in three versions: an internal model for PCs, and external models for PCs and Macs. The K8Xtreme PC models include Roxio DVD Creator 6 for quickly creating photo and video archives, or business training and promotional videos on DVD. Roxio features drag-and-drop video, menu backgrounds, video transitions and titles. The K8Xtreme Mac model includes Roxio Toast Lite for audio and video recording and playback. The K8Xtreme comes complete with cables for the external models, drive mount screws, DVD+R media and an instruction manual. MSRPs are: $199 for the K8500RI-WHT internal model for Windows; and $299 for the K8500RU external USB 2.0 Windows model and the K8500RF external FireWire model. All models are available now from Kano storage-solution providers." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from SMC Networks, Peripheral Enhancement, Copernic, SWiSHzone.com, Voodoo PC, SimpleTech, and O'Reilly in News. |
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GoJr. DJ530 Kid Friendly DVD Player and Karaoke Machine "GoVideo today introduced its latest video innovation, the GoJr. DJ530 Kid Friendly DVD Player and Karaoke Machine, its first ever DVD player designed specifically for children. The GoJr. top-loading DVD player features big, brightly colored function buttons on both the front panel and remote and comes with two colorful microphones and a free karaoke disc of children's songs. Now, younger children can really enjoy their favorite movies and sing-along music discs on their own special DVD player. The new GoJr. DJ530 includes GoVideo's two greatest feature innovations for kids, EZ Play and MyDVD. Preset as the default on GoJr., the EZ Play feature automatically skips ads, trailers and menus, jumping right to the start of the movie. Little ones aren't confused by menus and trailers for movies, and parents don't have to skip through them manually. Your child can put in the disc, press the big green play key, and the movie starts. The GoJr. plays all of today's popular DVD and CD formats, including DVD video, audio CD, picture CD, karaoke CDG, MP3 and JPEG on CD-R/W, and more. Kids can listen to music, play movies, and even view digital pictures. The matching primary function-specific remote control contains simplified, big color-coded buttons, with a small carrying handle, perfect for kids." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Intec Interactive, Atari, Namco Hometek, Shrapnel Games, Codemasters, and Whiptail Interactive in News. |
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