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The X2 MEGA View 561 Portable Multimedia Player "X2 Corporation, a global manufacturer and direct marketer of digital convergence products, announces the debut of its first portable digital multimedia player, the 20GB MEGA View. Unlike the first wave of bulky and less functional video media players, the MEGA View combines seven digital media devices into a sleek, attractive half-pound package. The MEGA View is a 7-in-1 device that functions as a video player, personal video recorder, photo viewer, MP3/media player, portable storage device, FM radio and voice recorder. With all these features in one device for under $400, X2's MEGA View aims to become the premier choice in ultimate portable media tools for business professionals and the gadget-savvy consumer alike.The MEGA View has an integrated 20GB hard drive, which provides a combination of up to 80 hours of video, 5,000 songs, 100,000 digital photos, 640 hours of digital voice and FM radio recording and/or 20GB of portable PC data storage. The 3.5-inch, backlit TFT display screen offers a clear picture and includes an interactive video menu. The viewer also features MPEG-4/ DivX video playback, while the MP3/media player is also compatible with WMA audio files. The MEGA View can also view photo and graphic files in JPEG, GIF, BMP or TIFF formats. "At under $400, the MEGA View delivers the music and storage of an iPod plus video playback and recording, photo viewing, a radio and voice recording, all for $50 more than the iPod," said Rex Wong, President of X2. "The MEGA View is an all-in-one portable media device, literally being able to replace seven stand-alone units," said Wong. "We wanted to create a device that was functional, yet simple and lightweight. The MEGA View embodies the philosophy of our entire digital convergence line, which aims to provide quality digital media products with superior features at affordable prices." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from O'Reilly, Paraglyph Press, Socket, H20 Audio, and ACD Systems in News. |
Nintendo DS "If you've ever enjoyed video games, you've likely played Mario(TM), Madden or Metroid(R), The Sims(TM) or Spider-Man(TM) -- but you've never played them like this. The names and characters might be familiar, but now you can interact with them in completely new ways. Boasting dual screens, touch-screen and voice-recognition interfaces and two forms of wireless connection, the 1 million Nintendo DS units available in North America already are expected to be depleted by year's end.Nintendo DS comes embedded with the PictoChat(TM) communication feature and bundled with a playable demo of the upcoming Metroid Prime(R) Hunters. In addition, the system will have a dozen titles available during its launch window, spanning every genre, including Super Mario 64 DS from Nintendo, Madden NFL 2005, Tiger Woods PGA TOUR(R) Golf and The Urbz(TM): Sims in the City(TM) from EA, Spider-Man 2(TM) from Activision, Ping Pals(TM) from THQ, Feel the Magic(TM): XY/XX from SEGA, Rayman(R) DS and Asphalt Urban GT(TM) from Ubisoft and Ridge Racer(R) DS and Mr. DRILLER(R): Drill Spirits(TM) from Namco. Nintendo DS will sell at an MSRP of $149.99. Its clamshell design protects both screens, and its rechargeable battery allows for six to 10 hours of play on a single charge. The launch is being supported by an aggressive, multifaceted marketing program, which includes the "touching is good" campaign that targets a hip, male demographic in lifestyle magazines and on hot broadcast and cable television programs." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Global Star Software, Electronic Arts, Logitech, Konami, Legacy Interactive, and Activision in News. |
MAGPIX 3.1 Megapixel Digital Camera Binocular "MAGPIX Inc. announced its third generation digital camera binocular. The MAGPIX SX3 offers a series of innovative features never-before-seen in the binocular camera category and is the first and only true 3.1 CMOS megapixel on the market today. At only $149, the SX3 is easy to use, compact, and durable, making it perfect for any outdoor activity, from sporting events and site seeing to wildlife and nature viewing.Powerful and sleek, the SX3 offers viewers 10X optical camera lens magnification through its 10 x 25mm ruby coated lenses. The SX3 allows users to take pictures from near to far (~45ft. to infinity) with an innovative lens focusing system, an industry first in a digital camera binocular. The included Light Guide attachment, similar in concept to those seen on lenses at professional sporting events, enables users to take superior digital photos in bright daylight and at great distances. With a shutter speed of up to 1/8000 of a second, the SX3 ensures that viewers don't miss any fast-paced action -- even from far away. The SX3 features a lightweight, sleek and sturdy design to endure the rigors of outside use. A tripod mount for fixed viewing and photography is perfect for all observation applications. It also offers a TV-out connection that transforms the SX3 into a surveillance tool as well as projection solution for viewing pictures directly on a TV." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Smarthome, O'Reilly, Adobe Systems, Micro Vision, and StealthSurfer in News. |
Atari Anthology "Capturing the nostalgia and sheer fun of the original video game revolution, Atari, Inc. announced that ATARI(R) ANTHOLOGY(TM) is now available at retailers nationwide. Featuring the largest collection of Atari games ever assembled, ATARI ANTHOLOGY includes 85 classic Atari games being made available for the first time ever for the PlayStation(R) 2 computer entertainment system and Xbox(R) video game system from Microsoft.Capturing the nostalgia and magic of the original games, ATARI ANTHOLOGY spans an array of gaming genres including Arcade Originals, 2600 Arcade Games and 2600 Adventure Games, as well as numerous offerings in the Action, Sports, Mind, Casino, Racing and Space genres. The 85 classics include arcades hits such as Asteroids(R), Battlezone(R), Missile Command(R), and Pong(R); sports games that include everything from football to volleyball to bowling, while retro fanatics can play rare gems like Casino(TM), Tempest(TM) and Circus Atari(TM). Adding a contemporary spin, ATARI ANTHOLOGY incorporates new Challenge Modes such as the psychedelic Trippy Mode, Time Warp and Double Speed, all of which test player's skills in extreme conditions, which results in a greater variety of fun. The game also boasts a sleek new 3D interface that provides a seamless portal into all the games, almost like a gaming time machine." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Activision, O'Reilly, KumaWar, Got Game Entertainment, and American McGee in News. |
Pinnacle Systems Liquid Edition Version 6 "Pinnacle Systems(R), Inc., a leader in digital video solutions, is now shipping Pinnacle Liquid Edition(TM) version 6, a complete and technologically sophisticated version of Pinnacle's advanced video editing software for professionals and enthusiasts. Pinnacle Liquid Edition empowers editors with new tools and features including the ability to edit multiple streams of native high-definition (HD) content with real-time effects without the requirement of expensive proprietary hardware, a professional-strength Steinberg inspired audio engine, and compatibility with the Pinnacle Studio(R) software used by millions of consumers worldwide.New users and experienced editors alike will appreciate the completely redesigned, highly intuitive Microsoft Windows-based interface. Pinnacle Liquid Edition PRO adds an all-new F. A. Porsche-designed professional analog and digital breakout box loaded with composite, component, S-Video I/O, stereo in, surround out, S/PDIF I/O and plug and play USB-2 ease-of-use. Pinnacle's Liquid SmartRT technology harnesses the full power of a computer's central processing unit(s) (CPU) and graphics processing unit (GPU) to perform thousands of resolution independent real-time broadcast quality 2D and 3D effects for SD and HD video. Pinnacle Liquid Edition 6 also offers industry leading, fully-enabled support for PCI-Express bus technology, enabling Pinnacle Liquid Edition to eliminate roadblocks and deliver up to 30 times more bandwidth between the visual processor and the CPU than competitive PCI-based solutions. This new version of Pinnacle Liquid Edition allows users to combine multiple formats and standards -. all in the same timeline .- through Liquid SmartEDIT. Liquid SmartEDIT provides native support for a large variety of codecs including DV25, MPEG-2 I-frame and IBP, and uncompressed. SmartEDIT's unique support for native MPEG-2 IBP material means that with Pinnacle Liquid Edition, users can edit in native HDV as well as the MPEG-2 IBP format that is used for DVDs. This minimizes the need for time-consuming, quality damaging process of format conversions. Pinnacle Liquid Edition offers a wealth of new creative options such as advanced video effects, a remarkable audio effects engine that provides a sophisticated audio mixer, support for full surround sound, VST plug-ins and effects such as Timewarp. Liquid Edition also features a Dolby Digital encoder that has been approved by Dolby Laboratories. Pinnacle Liquid's new Multicam support makes editing complex productions with as many as sixteen camera angles an absolute breeze. Additional improvements include greater control with parameter-based Bezier keyframe compositing and powerful new Track Matte and Mosaic real-time effects." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Macromedia, Logitech, Alien Skin, and VicMan Software in News. |
Halo 2 is Here! "The highly anticipated sequel to the award-winning "Halo: Combat Evolved," "Halo 2" picks up where the action in the first game ended. Heavily-armored super-soldier Master Chief, with the help of a small group of Marines, has destroyed the religious artifact and artificial world known as Halo, and is making his way back to Earth. There, he and the last surviving Earth forces will mount a titanic final struggle against the marauding Covenant armada.Exploiting the superior graphics capabilities of the Xbox console, "Halo 2" will expand on everything that made the original game great, plus add a wealth of technological and game-play advances. For example, playing on Xbox Live, gamers can engage with or against friends from around the world in an effort to save humankind. Developed exclusively for Xbox by Bungie Studios, part of Microsoft Game Studios, the original "Halo: Combat Evolved" has sold more than 5 million copies worldwide and spawned a legion of devotees who frequently participate in competitions, tournaments and game nights." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Digital Leisure, Sony Computer Entertainment, Electronic Arts, Buena Vista Interactive, Microsoft Games, Shrapnel Games, and Codemasters in News. |
Eclipse Solar Gear's Solar Backpack "Keeping the batteries charged and ready to go is an obsession for many consumers of personal electronics. What happens when you are outside in a remote area? Eclipse Solar Gear's Solar Backpack is designed to trickle charge the batteries of many types and brands of electronics including cell phones, PDAs, hand-held GPS units, and some MP3 players with a convenient solar charging solution. Basically anything you can plug into your car using a 12V auto adapter can be trickle charged using the new Solar Backpack by Eclipse Solar Gear. Ideal for the outdoors-oriented, the Solar Backpack features an integrated solar panel which provides up to 2.5 Watts of power with no extra deployment or effort required other than plugging in your accessory.The Solar Backpack is made of durable 1680 Denier Nylon and constructed to protect and power your personal electronics and other items. The feature rich backpack includes a padded waist-belt, mesh ventilated padded backpanel, contoured and padded shoulder straps, removable padded laptop case, organizer pockets, accessory pockets, water bottle pockets, MP3 pouch with a headphone portal exit, reflective features for nighttime visibility, key-ring lanyard and clip, and of course the solar charging module. The integrated solar charging module can be utilized by plugging in your existing 12V auto adapter. There are no extra adapters needed. The solar panel is made to withstand the environment and provide a long lasting source of solar energy. Designed to be a durable product and a convenient source for an alternate charging solution, the Eclipse Solar Gear's Solar Backpack should be ideal for the outdoors-oriented mobile professional." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from FarStone, ScanSoft, Macromedia, Quark, O'Reilly, and TechSmith in News. |
Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas "Rockstar Games, the world-renowned publishing division of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc., is proud to announce that Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas has shipped to retail stores in North America. Developed by Rockstar North, Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas is available exclusively for the PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system. Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas will be in stores in Europe on October 29th, 2004.Five years ago Carl Johnson escaped from the pressures of life in Los Santos, San Andreas... a city tearing itself apart with gang trouble, drugs and corruption. Where filmstars and millionaires do their best to avoid the dealers and gangbangers. Now, it's the early 90s. Carl's got to go home. His mother has been murdered, his family has fallen apart and his childhood friends are all heading towards disaster. On his return to the neighborhood, a couple of corrupt cops frame him for homicide. CJ is forced on a journey that takes him across the entire state of San Andreas, to save his family and to take control of the streets. Liberty City. Vice City. Now San Andreas, a new chapter in the legendary series." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Vivendi Universal Games, Activision, Microsoft Games, Imaginova, and Namco in News. |
Virgin Electronics Boomtube "Virgin Electronics, the consumer electronics arm of Richard Branson's Virgin Group, today unveiled the Virgin Electronics Boomtube(TM) line of high-quality, portable speakers for enjoying acoustically excellent music any time, anywhere. The Virgin Boomtube line features satellite speakers that conveniently twist off for great sound and true stereo separation, and twist back on for true portability. Designed to work with nearly any portable music source, the Virgin Boomtube line of portable speakers transforms personal MP3 players, CD players, or even laptop computers into a portable party. The Virgin Boomtube product line includes two models. The $99 Virgin Boomtube features ample two-inch aluminum speakers for great sound and weighs in at only two pounds. The supercharged Boomtube ex has a sub woofer-like bass tube and more than 40 watts of total system power generated from rechargeable batteries at $199. Both products feature MaxxBass(TM) technology to provide superior bass reproduction, but the 3.1 pound Virgin Boomtube ex goes one step further by incorporating the patent-pending bass tube that includes two additional base speakers and a bass control. The lithium-ion rechargeable Virgin Boomtube ex plays for approximately 10 hours on a single charge. The Virgin Boomtube lasts approximately 20 hours on a set of four AA alkaline batteries." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Motorola, Corel, O'Reilly, Microsoft, TechSmith, and Jasc in News. |
Fable on Xbox "Microsoft Game Studios announced that Fable, the ground-breaking Xbox® roleplaying adventure game developed by Lionhead Studios, had an incredible launch month at retail stores in North America. Fable was the best-selling console title across all platforms in September, more than doubling the sales of the second best-selling title across the U.S. After its record-setting first week in which the game sold more than 375,000 units in North America, Fable has continued to demonstrate huge success with the best launch month ever for any Xbox game in U.S. According to The NPD Group, Fable sold more than 600,000 units in its first month at retail in the U.S. -- squashing all previous Xbox games' first-month sales records.In Fable, the players’ every action determines their character's skills, appearances and moralities. Character's life stories are created from childhood through adulthood and on to old age. They can grow from an inexperienced child into the most powerful being in the world, spoken of by all and immortalized in legend. Players may choose the paths of righteousness or dedicate their characters' lives to evil; observing as they transform into reflections of their actions and decisions. Age leaves characters wizened, battle leaves them scarred, gluttony affects obesity. With experiences come advancement and physical change; whether it is by expanding muscles, a keen eye and nimble form or the buzz of magical energies around their finger tips. As players' characters develop, the world reacts to them and their actions. People comment on their successes, failures, appearances and behaviors. Their many opinions are expressed through applause, mockery, trepidation, panic and even flirtation. With each person characters aid and every creature they slay, the world is changed forever. In Fable, gamers decide: “Who will I be?” Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Global Star Software, Atari, Vivendi Universal Games, and Got Game Entertainment in News. |
Quark Launches QuarkXPress 6.5 "Quark Inc. announced the forthcoming release of QuarkXPress 6.5, the newest version of the industry's leading publishing software. Version 6.5 expands the power, versatility, and creative possibilities of QuarkXPress software, with new features, increased stability and reliability. Developed in direct response to user requests, QuarkXPress 6.5 is expected to further enhance its position as the world's most widely used professional page layout software.One such feature is QuarkVista, a new XTensions module for image manipulation. QuarkVista software extends the capabilities of QuarkXPress to include image editing within the context of the layout. In addition to standard image adjustments such as color balance, levels, brightness, and contrast, QuarkVista lets users apply a variety of common filters to images used in a QuarkXPress layout. QuarkVista filters are non-destructive, so users can change filter parameters at any time without affecting the source image file. Other enhancements in QuarkXPress 6.5 include support for guides on pasteboards on master pages, table enhancements such as grouping, and the ability to set bleed and OPI settings in print styles using XTensions software. Quark has focused attention in improving reliability and stability of the software, and the feedback from beta testers has been extremely favorable; many are already using QuarkXPress 6.5 in production. In addition to the features provided by Quark, version 6.5 includes useful software and other tools from Quark partners. In collaboration with Linotype, QuarkXPress 6.5 provides a way to purchase fonts that are used in a project but are not owned by the customer. As an additional benefit for registered users of QuarkXPress 6.5, Quark and Linotype are offering a font bundle valued at $1,000, which customers will be able to download at no cost." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Plustek, O'Reilly, and Alera Technologies in News. |
Midway Arcade Treasures 2 "Midway Games Inc., a leading interactive entertainment industry publisher and developer, announced Midway Arcade Treasures 2, a compilation of 20 classic Midway arcade games together on one disk, has shipped to select retailers nationwide. The sequel to the successful 2003 launch of Midway Arcade Treasures, Midway Arcade Treasures 2 is now available for the PlayStation ® 2 computer entertainment system, the Xbox ® video game system from Microsoft and the Nintendo GameCube ™ with a suggested retail price of $19.99.Midway Arcade Treasures 2 features hundreds of hours of classic gameplay action from arcade favorites including the blood-spurting intensity of Mortal Kombat ® II and Mortal Kombat ® 3 , the multiplayer collaboration of Gauntlet ® 2 , the drug-busting adventure of NARC ® and the no-holds-barred street fighting action of Pit Fighter ™, just to name a few. “Midway Arcade Treasures 2, like its predecessor Midway Arcade Treasures, provides quality gaming entertainment with twenty of Midway’s all-time, classic arcade titles,” said Steve Allison, chief marketing officer, Midway. “We feel that the Midway Arcade Treasures brand features one of the best compilations of yesteryear’s most popular games and does so for a great value at only twenty bucks.” With Midway Arcade Treasures 2, Midway provides gamers with the option of enjoying their favorite games in one-to-four-player game formats, depending on the title, along with the ultimate gaming ”flashback” experience with a collection of classic titles that represent a fresh, new era in the history of the game industry. The bonus DVD content also features several video montages and launch trailers along with “making of the game” videos for several of the titles included on the disk." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Global Star, Vivendi Universal Games, Codemasters, Activision, and Microsoft Games in News. |
TomTom GO Car Navigation Appliance "TomTom, a leading in-car navigation solution provider, today announces its TomTom GO(TM) with pre-loaded detailed maps of the United States. The new TomTom GO complements the existing product line by offering an all-in-one navigation device that works straight out of the box. The TomTom GO with pre-loaded maps of the United States provides users with an easy-to-use plug and go navigation solution. Users need only to turn on the GO, insert the provided memory card with pre-loaded maps, and start navigating.TomTom has leveraged its expertise in navigation solutions to make TomTom GO the easiest to use navigation device available today. TomTom GO can be easily mounted to any car windshield or dashboard in seconds with the supplied car mounting kit. Simply turn the device on and you are immediately ready to navigate. Users will enjoy pre-loaded maps of the entire United States, full door-to-door navigation capabilities, color 3D navigation views, as well as voice-guided routing instructions. By using TomTom GO's unique and unparalleled touch screen interface there is no need to wrestle with multiple buttons or extra hardware when calculating routes. The intuitive touch screen interface allows you to plan a route with just a few taps of the screen. At the end of the trip, simply turn TomTom GO off with the click of a button. TomTom GO can be easily transported from car to car. The GO's compact and stylish design combined with its 5-hour built-in rechargeable battery make it the perfect traveling companion." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Macromedia, Microsun, Altec Lansing, Starch Press, and Electric Rain in News. |
Mortal Kombat: Deception "Midway Games Inc., a leading software industry publisher and developer, announced today that Mortal Kombat ®: Deception ™, the latest entry in the company’s best-selling Mortal Kombat franchise, has shipped for the PlayStation ®2 computer entertainment system and the Xbox ® video game system from Microsoft.Mortal Kombat : Deception pushes martial arts-style fighting and the Mortal Kombat franchise to new heights with an innovative fighting system, unparalleled depth and brutally intense action that will appeal to long-time Mortal Kombat fans as well as next-generation gamers. The game features lightning-fast, hand-to-hand and special weapons combat, secret and returning characters, new moves and combinations with death-dealing battles and all-new life-threatening environments. “Midway, along with the millions of MK fans around the globe, is extremely excited about the release of Mortal Kombat: Deception,” said Steve Allison, chief marketing officer, Midway. “The Deception team has worked diligently over the past two years to ensure that this MK title will be the best yet. Not only will it be the first ever 3D fighter to be playable online via both the PlayStation 2 and Xbox Live ™, but the team has also succeeded in meeting a goal that some thought wasn’t going to be possible…they made a fighting game that plays as responsive online as it does offline. To support these ambitious efforts and hefty accomplishments, we are backing Mortal Kombat: Deception with the most extensive marketing campaign in Midway’s company history.” Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from LucasArts, Majesco, Microsoft Games, Activision, Midway Games, and Mad Catz in News. |
The Logitech Z-5500 Digital Speakers "The Logitech Z-5500 Digital speakers, a 5.1 surround sound system with THX(R) certification, can pound out 505 watts of power, thanks in no small part to a 10-inch subwoofer with enormous -- and adjustable -- bass. But the Logitech Z-5500 Digital speaker system isn't just about loud bass: It offers premium performance at any volume. It features 96/24 digital decoding capabilities for both the PC platform and home entertainment systems. The new 96/24 format is now being used on some enhanced DVD and audio discs, High Definition PC audio systems as well as advanced signal processing of all audio including PlayStation(R)2 games, Xbox(R) games, DVD movies and more.The Logitech Z-5500 Digital speakers will be available in the U.S. beginning in October for a suggested retail price of $399.95. The polished black and chrome 5.1 surround system -- which includes new digitally-equalized phase plug satellites and center channel, and a 10-inch subwoofer for powerful bass -- looks great and sounds magnificent. The satellite speakers have removable cloth grilles, and can be conveniently mounted to any wall due to their rotating stands. The Digital SoundTouch(TM) control center does the decoding of Dolby(R) Digital, DTS(R), and DTS(R) 96/24 soundtracks, producing unsurpassed clarity. The Logitech Z-5500 Digital speakers can connect directly into a DVD player or game console, with no need for a separate receiver. The system is also designed to work on PCs and with portable music players. In fact, the speaker system supports up to six devices, with an optical port, a coaxial port and four stereo ports as its standard configuration. Each of five 3-inch digitally equalized aluminum phase plug satellites combines two drivers into one, providing the clarity of a tweeter with the richness and fullness of a mid-range driver. The 10-inch subwoofer delivers 188 watts of distortion-free powerful bass, based on the RMS (Root Mean Square) measuring system. The entire system pumps out 505 RMS watts, and 1010 watts of total peak power. The package also ships with a sleek, expanded-function wireless remote control -- great for use with home theaters, PCs or video game consoles." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Ulead Software, Logitech, O'Reilly, Delkin, and Encore in News. |
Myst® IV Revelation Launches "Ubisoft today announced that Myst® IV Revelation, a PC/Mac® hybrid DVD-ROM, is available now at the manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $39.99 – rated “T” for Teen, with mild violence. Myst IV Revelation, developed by Ubisoft’s talented Montreal studio, beckons Myst loyalists, adventure seekers and puzzle fans of all ages to join the story. Myst IV Revelation features incredible graphics, an ambient soundtrack and a gripping story:Graphics – Myst IV Revelation comes to life with real-time animations where trees blow in the wind, water flows, and dynamic lighting effects help immerse the player in rich environments. Photo-realistic graphics combined with video footage and animation sequences create a unique sense of tension, taking the player from relaxed and tranquil one moment to intense and frantic the next. Soundtrack – The music in the game, which lures players into the depths of the surreal Myst world, was created by award-winning composer Jack Wall and features a song written and performed by world-renowned recording artist Peter Gabriel. In addition to contributing the song, Peter Gabriel also lent his voice to the game. Storyline – A little girl disappears, her two brothers are suspected, and it is clear that their story is far from over. Players will escape into the adventure as they attempt to solve the mystery and discover the fate of the two villainous brothers, Sirrus and Achenar. Understanding their motives is the key to the investigation, which will lead to a true “revelation.” Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Activision, Ubisoft, Saitek, Midway, and Electronic Arts in News. |
Wacom Intuos 3 Professional Pen Tablets "Intuos3 tablets incorporate ExpressKeys and Touch Strips. An on-board set of customizable ExpressKeys default to keyboard modifiers Ctrl, Alt, Shift, and Spacebar and are completely customizable. In addition, new finger-sensitive Touch Strips allow users to zoom or scroll with their non-dominant hand while working with a Wacom battery-free pen or mouse with their dominant hand.The significance of Intuos3's new ExpressKeys and Touch Strips is that they greatly speed up workflow in graphics and other applications. The innovative ExpressKeys provide quick access to commonly used modifiers, mouse clicks, keystrokes, and other time-saving operations used by photo editors, graphic designers, and digital artists. Similarly, the Touch Strips bring an even higher level of functionality to tablets. The two-inch Touch Strips can be used to zoom, scroll, or perform a custom keystroke action such as changing brush size in Adobe(R) Photoshop(R), all without having to move to the keyboard. Other key features of the Intuos3 pen tablets include a new industrial design with a high-gloss transparent surface, a redesigned Grip Pen with a larger rubber barrel for enhanced comfort, an improved ergonomic, battery-free mouse with five programmable buttons and a scroll wheel, doubled resolution of 5080 lines per inch, and a new software bundle composed of Adobe Photoshop Elements 2, Corel(R) Painter(TM) Essentials 2, and nik Color Efex(TM) Pro 2 IE." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from O'Reilly, Corel, DTS Entertainment, Toshiba, and askSam Systems in News. |
X-Men Legends "The mutant battle rages on to North American retail shelves with the release of Activision, Inc.’s X-Men Legends. An epic action-RPG featuring a compelling storyline written by former X-Men comic book writers, the game allows players to pick and customize a team of legendary X-Men from the Marvel Universe to combat evil and protect the fate of mankind from certain doom.X-Men Legends challenges players to master the attributes of their favorite X-Men characters by creating, customizing and controlling teams of four mutants in real time, as they embark on a quest to stop the extinction of mankind. Throughout the action-filled saga players assume the role of up to 15 popular X-Men characters, each with individual mutant powers and fighting skills, including Wolverine, Gambit, Nightcrawler and Storm. Gamers select specific X-Men characters depending on each mission and unlock new playable mutants and super powers as they battle the Brotherhood of Mutants and other Marvel villains in fully interactive and destructible 3-D environments. Along the way, players lead teams of mutants on a variety of challenging missions set in some of the most popular locations from the X-Men comics, including the X-Mansion, New York City and the infamous Weapon X facility." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Codemasters, Square Enix, Atari, Midway, and Sega in News. |
Logitech Harmony Remote "Harmony remotes are able to combine multiple infrared commands into one command, with the push of a single button. For example, to watch TV on a satellite system with a personal video recorder (PVR), the TV, receiver, satellite, and PVR box may all have to be powered up and set to the right inputs -- which could require pressing 10 or more buttons on several remote controls. With the Harmony Remote, one activity button -- such as Watch TV, Listen to Music, or Watch Video -- can be programmed to launch all the correct components with the correct input settings in the correct sequence. Both Harmony remotes include dedicated activity buttons and six extra customizable buttons tied to the remote's LCD screen. It's possible to set up as many as 255 activities.Logitech Harmony remotes are able to control entire activities thanks to patent-pending Smart State Technology(R). Smart State Technology allows the Harmony remote to always know the state of each component. When the user selects an activity, the Smart State Technology immediately evaluates the current state of all the individual entertainment devices and then sends the appropriate commands for the activity. Thus, Smart State Technology enables the Harmony Remote to quickly and easily turn on the TV, DVD and receiver, set the inputs, and even start a DVD movie -- all with one touch of a button. All Logitech Harmony remotes are programmable based on a shared customer online database that includes profiles of tens of thousands of electronic components. During setup, customers simply answer a series of questions about the setup and models of their entertainment system. The remote is then configured by downloading all instructions for that unique mix of components via a USB connection. This online community of Harmony users constantly updates the database, ensuring that even the latest and greatest components will be included in short order. To make installation easy, a setup wizard poses questions in a natural language format. And because there are intricacies with everyone's setup, Logitech maintains a toll-free tech support line available seven days a week and a quick response e-mail support system." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Symantec, Altec Lansing, Peachpit Press, McGraw-Hill/Osborne, O'Reilly, and YesSoftware in News. |
'Atari Flashback' Classic Game Console "It started a revolution and redefined entertainment for a generation...and now, Atari proves you can go home again with its Atari(R) Flashback(TM) Classic Game Console. Coming in time for the holiday season, Atari Flashback is a stand-alone, plug-and-play unit filled with 20 classic Atari games, including Asteroids(R), Centipede(R), Breakout(R) and the never-before-released Saboteur(TM). Atari Flashback, a hybrid of the classic Atari 2600 and 7800 consoles, is modeled to resemble a smaller replica of the 7800 and plugs directly into the TV, for easy access and instant gratification."Today's huge universe of video games fans got its start with these vintage Atari games and the old Atari consoles," said Wim Stocks, Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing. "For those gamers, Atari Flashback is a rush of nostalgia and retro fun; for younger gamers, it's a chance to see where it all began and try their hand at gaming old-school style. It's a must-have gift for the holidays." Returning 20 years after the introduction of the Atari 7800, Atari Flashback is a smaller replica of the original Atari 7800 system and comes with two joystick controllers, power supply and a TV cable so gamers can quickly and easily connect to their TV and start playing. Atari Flashback features 20 classic games that defined a generation of players, as well as one previously unreleased game, Saboteur." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Atari, Digital Leisure, Electronic Arts, Activision, Legacy Interactive, and Codemasters in News. |
Olympus Stylus Verve Digital Camera "Olympus designers have turned a corner with a radical out-of-the-box design for the Stylus Verve. Instead of an angular boxy body, the new Verve has rounded corners and a smooth contoured shape that looks as though it's been forged by the force of water for centuries. In Silver, Blue, Black, White, Red, and Copper colors, the Verve's metal body is made to mix and match with your own style. At a compact size of only 3.74" x 2.18" x 1.08", and a weight of just 3.7 ounces, the Verve - the smallest Olympus digital camera introduced to date - fits snugly in a hip pocket, shirt-front pocket, purse, tote bag or backpack so it can make a memorable impression wherever you take it.Because it's a Stylus, the Verve's lightweight and ergonomic metal body provides all-weather protection from the elements, so it's fine to take the camera outside in a downpour, on the slopes, on the yacht or in a blizzard. Rubber gaskets throughout the camera's interior insure that rain, sleet and snow can't stop the Verve from taking incredibly clear and colorful images in any weather condition - get the camera wet, wipe it off, and keep on shooting. Thanks to the Stylus Verve's new HyperCrystal(tm) LCD, a bright 1.8-inch display with 134,000 pixels of sharp resolution, taking and sharing images is enhanced. This new LCD is designed to deliver a 160° angle of viewing so it can be seen clearly from above, from the side, and from below by a group of people at once, or on your own. Where conventional LCD displays fail to deliver clear, visible pictures under bright conditions, the Stylus Verve HyperCrystal LCD is viewable even in bright sunlight at the beach or on the slopes. The process of taking images has also been streamlined for maximum efficiency. For example, the Stylus Verve has 16 selectable Scene Program Modes that cover the gamut of possible shooting situations: Portrait, Self-Portrait, Landscape, Beach & Snow, Indoors, Cuisine, Night Scene, Fireworks, Panorama and more. Accessing these modes is as simple as a push of a new navigation control pad that allows users to quickly and easily cycle through the various settings displayed on the LCD screen menu. Once a picture is taken the ability to create a unique image just begins. In-camera editing effects like Soft Focus, Fish Eye, Black and White, and Sepia, allow you to apply an effect to the image directly inside the camera, saving a copy of the original image along with your fun new creation." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from ATI, Jasc, O'Reilly, No Starch Press, and Hamrick Software in News. |
Allume Ships Aquazone Desktop Garden "Allume Systems, Inc. (previously Aladdin Systems) released Aquazone Desktop Garden, an interactive aquarium application and screensaver, in
partnership with e-Frontier. Aquazone is the first virtual aquarium to bring an interactive element to users' PCs. In addition to Aquazone Desktop Garden's realistic fish, tanks, and lighting effects, users can now "feed"
their virtual fish or "tap" on the tank to see their fish react. Aquazone is also unique in its ability to display virtually unlimited numbers of fish, even whole schools of some species.Have you always dreamed of owning an exotic fresh or salt-water fish tank for your home, but the cost and maintenance was just too much? Your dream has come true! AquaZone is the desktop garden that delivers a state-of-the-art digital aquarium for your PC! An aquarium so vibrant, so life-like, you will swear the fish are real! It’s so easy! No complicated set-up or clean up is required! Just pick your favorite tank and as many of your favorite fresh or salt-water fish from the 20 provided, and you are on your way to becoming a connoisseur of aquatic wildlife!" Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Midway, Vivendi, Codemasters, Namco, and Take 2 in News. |
Smith Micro Announces QuickLink Mobile Wi-Fi Seeker "Have a laptop? Travel with it? Ever wish you could quickly and easily find a wireless hot spot? If the answer is "Yes", then whether you're in an airport, another office or even at home, the QuickLink Mobile Wi-Fi Seeker will help you zero-in on the best access point.Without having to boot-up your computer, the QuickLink Mobile Wi-Fi Seeker will find the strongest wireless (802.11 b/g) signal. Without fail. Time is saved, money is saved, and frustration is totally avoided. It's that simple. QuickLink Mobile Wi-Fi Seeker is easy to use. Simply point the QuickLink Mobile Wi-Fi Seeker in any direction. Push the button and hold it down. That's what activates the QuickLink Mobile Wi-Fi Seeker. The red lights sweep back and forth. If there is a wireless access point within 300 feet, the WiFi Seeker will find it! When the red lights stop sweeping and remain lit, you've located an (802.11 b/g) access point. The more red lights that stay lit, the stronger the signal. If the red lights don't stop sweeping, point the QuickLink Mobile Wi-Fi Seeker in a different direction." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Microsoft, O'Reilly, SMC Networks, No Starch Press, and G-Lock Software in News. |
Saitek Maestro Travel Chess Computer "The Maestro Travel Chess Computer is the perfect companion to help pass the time on a long flight. The blue backlit screen allows users to make a move at the touch of the internal-stylus. With over 100 playing levels, the sleek Maestro Travel Chess Computer is designed for a more intermediate player.Other features of the Maestro Travel Chess Computer include: * 100 Playing Levels: 60 Fun and 40 Competition * Hints and Tips and Coach Mode available * Most major opening systems to learn * 64 Study Positions - see how the experts do it * Take Back and replay over 200 moves – experiment and learn * Setup Option – try out new positions and moves Click here for more information about the Maestro Travel Chess Computer. Also, new announcements from Gathering/Take Two, Namco, Got Game, Electronic Arts, Codemasters, Kuma, and Activision in News. |
AOpen Now Shipping 16X DL DVD+/-RW Burners "AOpen(R) Inc., an award-winning, global leader in PC component design and manufacturing, is now shipping its new 16X DL (Double-Layer) DVD+/-RW burners in North America. AOpen is one of the world's first manufacturers to deliver this fast new type of optical drive this year. "We're confident that we have a real winner with the new AOpen DUW1608/ARR, 16X DL DVD+/-RW burners," said Scott Chien, Vice President and General Manager, Optical Storage Devices, AOpen Inc. "We've got the speed, the storage and - we're one of the first manufacturers out of the gate with this progressive new technology."The new 16X DL DVD burners from AOpen make it quick and easy to burn movies, video, digital photos, audio, MP3 and other multimedia formats - even data back-ups. The state-of-the-art drive offers a wide range of disc compatibility and serves as a diverse all-in-one DVD/CD writing device with DVD+R, DVD-R, DVD+RW, DVD-RW, CD-R and CD-RW formats. The new AOpen DUW1608/ARR 16X DL DVD Burner includes: -- AOpen's Chameleon feature with 3 interchangeable color faceplates -- Comprehensive software bundle with a wide variety of applications -- Optimal writing speed technologies for maximum speeds -- Auto laser beam adjustment/alignment for accurate reading -- Virtually fool-proof burns with buffer under-run protection -- Super-quiet operation with silent technology features -- Limited one-year warranty AOpen DUW1608/ARR 16X DL DVD+/-RW burners are shipping now." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from V Communications, Macromedia, Microsoft, Britannica, Symantec, Right Hemisphere, and Keyspan in News. |
Namco's Ghosthunter "A routine disturbance call. A startling discovery. A catastrophe of supernatural proportions. During a late night patrol, rookie Detroit cop Lazarus Jones and his partner Anna Steele stumble across the ghost research laboratory of Professor Peter Richmond. Lazarus unintentionally releases a legion of ghosts and spirits that begin to wreak havoc around the world while a malevolent spirit abducts Anna. Armed with second sight and an arsenal of weapons and gadgets, the idealistic cop is forced to take on the entire spirit realm in hopes of finding his partner -- and saving the world.Developed by the award winning SCEE Studio Cambridge, Ghosthunter’s blend of action-adventure third-person shooter gameplay and dark humor has players battling vengeful spirits, horrific apparitions, demonic children, and freakish phantoms. Equipped with a selection of high-tech weaponry and gadgets specially designed for hunting and capturing ghosts, players will experience diverse cinematic locations in haunted versions of famous places, including an “Alcatraz”–like prison, a “Titanic”-like sunken ship, a “Deliverance”-style backcountry and an “Area 51”-like military base. Ghosthunter is rated T for Teen by the Entertainment Software Ratings Board (ESRB) and carries a suggested retail price of $49.99." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Sony Computer Entertainment, Codemasters, Exotypos, Vivendi Universal Games, and Sega in News. |
Kodak EASYSHARE DX7590 Digital Camera "Like its predecessor, the EASYSHARE DX7590 camera unites a professional quality SCHNEIDER-KREUZNACH VARIOGON 10X optical zoom lens (38-380 mm equivalent; f/2.8 - f/3.7 maximum aperture); the KODAK Color Science image processing chip for rich, accurate colors; dual-sensor, low-light precision auto focusing; and multiple shooting modes for optimal creative control. The new model then goes a step further, adding new features such as five megapixel resolution for prints up to 20 x 30 inches, an extra high-resolution (311,000 pixels) electronic viewfinder, JPEG fine and standard compression options, flash compensation, and rapid click-to-capture (just 0.2 seconds).The EASYSHARE DX7590 camera offers fully manual controls, permitting independent aperture, shutter speed, flash and exposure compensation, ISO equivalent and other settings that can transform an ordinary picture into a work of art. The camera also features aperture and shutter priority modes, as well as sixteen programmed scene modes. Saturated, neutral, black-and-white and sepia color modes lend additional in-camera creative options. Its dual sensor, low-light precision auto-focus system combines rapid phase detection with highly accurate through the lens (TTL) contrast detection to precisely fine tune and sharply define a subject, even in almost complete darkness. In addition, the camera is equipped with an external flash synch -- capable of synching at any shutter speed -- for illumination of subjects beyond the 16-foot pop-up flash range. The DX7590 camera includes new KODAK EASYSHARE software version 4.0 for WINDOWS and MACINTOSH systems, providing effortless digital picture organization, editing, sharing and printing. The exclusive One Touch to Better Pictures feature takes advantage of proprietary color technologies developed by Kodak to help users get vibrant, true-to-life prints from inkjet printers. Version 4.0 -- also available for free download from www.kodak.com -- now includes an Express Upload feature for keeping OFOTO online picture albums current, the ability to edit pictures in third-party applications, enhanced e-mail powered by Ofoto, and optional VCD and DVD burning." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Mad Dog Multimedia, Rio Audio, Symantec, O'Reilly, SMC, Logitech, and ATI in News. |
Logitech X-530 Multimedia Speakers "The Logitech X-530 and Logitech X-230 speakers are the first speakers to include Logitech's patent-pending Frequency Directed Dual Drivers(TM) technology. The technology helps speaker systems produce richer sounds by having two -- or dual -- drivers in each satellite speaker. It also overcomes high-frequency overlap that leads to uneven sound -- a major barrier to dual driver speakers in the past. The result is uniform, intense sound from any place in the room.The Logitech X-530 and Logitech X-230 speakers feature a sleek, high-gloss design which fits into either home or office decor. The polished black surface of the satellites sets off contrasting chrome dual drivers, which are protected by transparent cloth grilles. The subwoofer is designed to match the satellites, and includes a kick-proof metal grill for protection. The Logitech X-530 speakers, available in the U.S. this month for a suggested retail price of $79.95, are a 5.1 surround sound system geared for gaming and playing DVDs on PCs, or game consoles and DVD players using an adapter available through www.logitech.com. It includes a subwoofer with a dynamic, real-time equalizer that maximizes punch while minimizing distortion. With a dedicated center channel and acoustically matched front and rear satellites, the Logitech X-530 system produces finely balanced surround sound. The combination of five satellites plus subwoofer delivers 70 watts of power using the RMS (Root Mean Square) measuring system." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Shrapnel Games, Ubisoft, TerraGame, Witt Interactive, Namco, and GarageGames in News. |
FaceFilter Studio - Fix Your Portrait Photos "Digital photography has given us unlimited resources by which to try and capture that elusive perfect portrait. But try as we might, most portraits are never perfect. There are usually slight imperfections that we wish could be easily changed. Luckily, along with digital photography has come digital photo enhancement software. Most software of this kind can change color tones, remove red eye, etc, but now there is a product that can actually change facial expressions and much more. It’s FaceFilter Studio from Reallusion.With FaceFilter Studio's unique facial improvement technology, anyone can enhance expressions, reduce oily gloss, neutralize heavy shadow, remove facial blemishes, wrinkles and red-eye, enhance skin tone and automatically correct color in digital photos. The image editing tools of FaceFilter Studio are so complete, you can even use a "digital brush" to remove unwanted pounds from those you photograph. FaceFilter Studio also provides a greater degree of improvements to today's higher resolution digital cameras, supporting images up to 12 mega pixels in resolution. FaceFilter Studio also offers automatic sensing of a subject's facial features, removing the need of "fitting" the facial feature. FaceFilter Studio is perfect for individual images as well as group photos, allowing similar enhancements or corrections to be applied to multiple subjects from a clipboard. Improvements to your digital images now take only minutes and give you professional results every time. Are these claims true? I’m happy to report that yes they are true!" Click here for more information. |
APC's New Tower Smart-UPS Unit "American Power Conversion announced an extension to its next generation of award winning Smart-UPS(R) uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) with the new 750VA tower model. This new design offers six outlets and can provide up to 500 watts of real power, making it an ideal solution for high performance tower servers, networking equipment, and storage devices. The new model incorporates an advanced feature set that provides enhanced power conditioning and management capabilities for the protection of critical business applications, data and equipment from utility power disturbances. The unit also offers USB and serial connectivity as well as a built-in SmartSlot for integration with all APC SmartSlot power management accessories."This new offering enables us to give users more power, more outlets and more management options, without an increase in price," said Dwight Sperry, APC's group general manager of Enterprise Systems and Business Networks. "Our next generation of Smart-UPS products addresses the increasing power density of servers and IT equipment while offering configuration flexibility to users with increased outlets and enhanced manageability." Additional accessories include APC's Network Management Card products that provide standards-based monitoring, configuration, control, and event handling for APC UPSs. These modules are integrated onto a single UPS SmartSlot card and have features like a built-in modem for dial in, out of band management and environmental management capabilities. APC's new Smart-UPS 750VA is currently available worldwide and offers a comprehensive two-year warranty and a lifetime $150,000 equipment protection policy." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from McGraw-Hill/Osborne, Primera, Keyspan, Macromedia, REAL Software, and Sounds In Silence in News. |
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