Android 4.0 is clearly designed to unify the Android experience and while there are plenty of details lacking, we know that Ice Cream Sandwich has:

• New User Interface taking a cue from the Honeycomb tablet operating system, Ice Cream Sandwich sports a sleek futuristic design that more closely aligns the phone and slate OSes.
• Hardware acceleration for smoother-running apps and greater energy efficiency saving battery life.
  
• All hardware buttons removed in favor of software buttons, allowing more universal application design on both tablet and smartphone devices.
• Roboto font, which was specifically developed for smartphones and tablets.
• Flexible widgets that can be resized by users and which are located in a new element of the OS’s navigation.
• Home Screen folders You can group apps or shortcuts together and, as with iOS, you can do this just by dragging icons on top of one another.
• Smarter folders, including the ability to ‘layer’ foldering.
• Favorites tray giving quick access favorite apps, folders, and links.
• Screenshot functionality. By holding down the power and volume button, you can take a shot of everything on your screen.
• Revamped notifications, including new user customization options and quick dismissal.
• Improved copy/paste by allowing users to move and manipulate entire blocks of selected text.
• Better keyboard It’s faster, smoother, more accurate, and best of all, better at correction. There’s in-line spell check and the ability to install third-party dictionaries.
• Enhanced talk-to-text features by improving accuracy, speeding up speech-to-text interpretation, and making the controls for speech-based typing more prominent.
• New browser that has tabs, lets you import your Chrome bookmarks, and lets you automatically load the desktop version of a site.
• Integrated Gmail and Google Calendar, whether you want them or not, with more intuitive controls and deeper in-OS functionality.
• Gmail UI improvementsincluding off-line search, a two-line preview, and gesture support for swiping between conversations and action bar for composing a message, searching, and accessing labels.
• Google+ integration, giving users quick access to Hangouts and other new social functions from Google.
• People app taking care of all your social networking needs, the updated People app will be pull in all status updates, photos, videos which should also include all your Google+ activity.
• Multi-tasking has been given a boost and with ICS it’s easier to see which apps you’ve been using recently. If you decide you’re done with using one, you can easily flick it away to close.
• Data usage tracking and controls that let users see where their data usage is coming from.
• Improved camera functionalitywith image stabilization, autofocus, panorama photo features, automatic face detection, and on-the-go photo editing and enhancement. Also Camera has no shutter lag, continuous focus, zoom while recording, panorama photos, time lapse settings, and 1080p recording.
• “Android Beam,” which lets users transmit YouTube videos, websites, apps, and more by touching their phone to another NFC-equipped device.
• Improved the contact list through the “People App,” which gives users the option to share, hide, and prioritize their contact information and integrated social data.
• “Face Unlock,” which lets users unlock their phone just by looking at the front-facing camera.
• Voice Input features including the ability to read out text for your mobile to input. This is a similar, if less advanced, version of Siri.
• “Visual Voicemail” service that translates your voicemails into text so you don’t need to listen to them to get the message. Coupled with auto-text response for when you are busy and can’t answer a call.
• WiFi direct which enables you to connect directly to peer WiFi devices without the need for tethering.
• on-device data encryption allowing connections to Microsoft Exchange Servers for access to corporate e-mail, calendars, contacts and more, eben if those Exchange Servers have a device-encryption IT policy enabled.
• Revamped calendar UI that makes navigating calendar pages easier and more intuitive. And a new pinch-to-zoom feature makes precise zooming in on calendar items much simpler.

So plenty to look forward to there. But is there anything missing? Were you hoping for anything that isn’t on this list.

Related Posts:

• Alienware about to launch a cell phone?
• Google to announce Android mobile platform
• Apple launches iPhone 4S at ‘let’s talk iPhone’ event
• Sony Ericsson launches Xperia Play, Xperia Neo and Xperia Pro
• Samsung Galaxy Tab gets a WiFi-only version

Original article: Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich features we know sofar
From Machines that go Bing

Tim Cook started off the show with some interesting statistics:

• There have been six million Lion downloads to since it’s launch
• “the MacBook Pro and iMac are the number one best selling notebook and desktop in the United States”
• 16 billion songs have been downloaded from iTunes
• 300 million iPods have been sold
• 250 million iOS devices have been sold

Scott Forstall then gave us the news that iOS 5 will be launched on October 12th.

iPhone 4S

Then came the big news of the day when Tim took the wraps of a sparkling new iPhone 4S.

The 4S has the same form factor as the 4, just as all the speculation expected, so no larger screen. All the changes are under the skin:

• Storage space is up from 8GB to 16, 32 and 64 MB
• The processor is upgraded from A4 to A5
• The main Camera is upgraded from 5 megapixel AF with flash to 8 megapixel AF with flash and f/2.4 aperture
• The secondary camera has its frame rate upped to 30fps
• Video recording resolution up from 720 to 1080
• Cellular connectivity goes from ‘Quadband GSM, pentaband HSPA’ to ‘Hybrid GSM / CDMA “World Phone”, Bluetooth 4.0′

All other specs remain essentially the same except for some minor improvements in battery performance during various activities but I never take these claims seriously from any manufacturer.

Engadget has compared the 4S with suitable competition: the Samsung Galaxy S II, the Motorola Droid Bionic and the HTC Titan. In this company the Apple iPhone S4 appears to fall short in some respects:

• The slowest processor (in purely MHz terms)
• The least RAM
• The smallest display
• Lowest spec secondary camera
• Embedded battery

But stands out in others:

• The highest storage capacity
• Highest screen resolution

This comparison concentrates on hardware. But what about the software upgrades?

The 4S is the first iPhone to come with Siri, Apple’s new assistant that provides a voice interface for just about everything you can do on an iPhone. Reports from the event claim that the performance of Siri under test was every bit as good as Tim Cook’s demo.

Apple now has a range of three iPhones prices as follows:

• iPhone 3: Free
• iPhone 4:$99
• iPhone 4S:
• • 16MB: $199
  • 32MB:$299
  • 64MB: $399

Of course all these comparisons will have to be revised once Samsung announces its new phone next Tuesday!

Related Posts:

• Google to announce Android mobile platform
• Samsung and Bang and Olufsen launch Serenata phone at Apple’s iPhone
• Samsung Celox Trumps Apple iPhone 5 ‘specs’
• 16GB iPhone is here at last
• SkyHook: Apple MacWorld keynote announcements

Original article: Apple launches iPhone 4S at ‘let’s talk iPhone’ event
From Machines that go Bing

The screen uses the latest generation of transparent AMOLED+ panels making this the thinnest and lightest screen ever. Each sub-pixel is a diode of red,  green or blue. Therefore, instead of displaying the usual black areas, they allow light to pass which allows the viewer to see through the screen.

You can adjust the transparency level of the screen and select the screens that match your desired application such as screens specifically dedicated to video games, movies etc.

The TV supports various screen sizes (22,32,42,46,55, 64 inches), full HD, 3D active screen and supports 4K2K (40″ and more) with 3D without glasses. Once the screen is connected to the TV, it automatically recognizes and displays the definition of the screen. You choose your screen depending on the space you have.

The TV is completely wireless. With ‘DPConnect’ your devices (video games, Blu-ray players, and others) connect wirelessly (7m, max). There’s no HDMI, no USB etc. The TV automatically detects devices in less than 5ms and displays the relevant options.

In keeping with Sammy’s passion for Android, this TV is a pure-blood Google Android.

Other features include:

• The base serves as box.
• You can find all your applications on your TV with the “SynchrTV” and you can use your smartphone as a controller to play your video games.
• If you do not have a smartphone or remote to control your TV, the touch screen will allow you a simple gesture to access functions or you can do so through the voice function.
• It features SmartTV applications, screens with cameras, the “Uprogram” which allows you to share your programs on your devices like your smartphone or tablet android etc.
• “No Edges”, so you can see the entire image on your screen.
• ActiveDeep3D+ allows you to see 3D images of high quality in a transparent screen without lag.

Gallery

Related Posts:

• Apple launches iPhone 4S at ‘let’s talk iPhone’ event
• Demolition robot — you know you want one!
• Samsung Celox Trumps Apple iPhone 5 ‘specs’
• Samsung Galaxy Tab gets a WiFi-only version
• Peugeot BB1 concept car launched in London

Original article: Samsung MSTV concept
From Machines that go Bing

LG has used a ‘DSP algorithm’ to push the sound vertically and horizontally using ’3D reflectors’ extending the audio in a way that fills in the gaps in the room. Havis Kwon, President and CEO of LG Electronics Home Entertainment Company said:

“LG is pioneering the field of 3D sound with the 9.1 speaker system on the HX906TX. Along with our ground breaking CINEMA 3D TV, the HX906TX sets new standards in immersive entertainment, with a sound so rich and textured, it’s hard to believe it’s not real.”

That’s some promise, so how do they do it?

The answer seems to be in the 9.1 speaker system which adds 4 speakers to the conventional 5.1 channels. Those ten speakers deliver optimized, multi-directional audio. Sitting on top of the tallboy speakers the Upright 3D Speakers pump the sound vertically filling the vertical space. In addition, a 360° reflector in each of the Uprights reflects the sound in all directions creating an immersive sound that’s rich enough to simulate a concert or cinema experience.

But then it gets technical. LG says:

By applying LG’s unique 3D effect DSP algorithm, Sound Field Expansion technology further expands the horizontal sound field, and works in harmony with the Upright 3D Speakers to create a truly immersive, 360-degree sound experience. Sound Field Expansion extends the audio “sweet spot” so viewers always feel as if they are right in the middle of the sound, even when they’re gathered together in larger groups. Moreover, the 3D Sound Analyzer analyzes complex layers of original sound, adding sound information to any empty space. The result is more detailed and realistic 3D Sound audio.

Other features include:

• Blu-ray playback
• WiFi Direct
• Smart TV connectivity to smartphones and tablets

Pricing and availability has not yet been announced.

Related Posts:

• MiFi router brings wireless internet connections to your WiFi-only devices
• Onei Solutions 6.1 surround TV stand turns your lounge into an auditorium
• Samsung launches super-slim Blu-ray tech: DVD-H1080, BD-P4600, BD-P3600, HT-BD8200 and HT-BD7200
• LG to launch Trumotion 480Hz LCD TV at CES 2009
• GanevaSound makes a home theatre system that will dwarf your TV

Original article: LG HX906TX home theater system announced
From Machines that go Bing

The suit is inspired by the JetLev concept (pictured below) which uses three high-pressure columns of water to generate thrust. The Rescue Pack is comparatively smaller and lighter but more manoeuvrable and the designer, Jurmol Yao speculates that it could be used to carry out rescues where conventional lifeboats are not practicable.

As you can see from the images the user operates the device using foot controls leaving the arms free for rescue activities. The device sucks the water through a pipe connected to the rear port and the pump drives the water down again through the left and right nozzles achieving lift.

Related Posts:

Original article: Jet-powered rescue pack — goes where lifeboats fear to tread
From Machines that go Bing

Anoush Mortazavi has redesigned the traditional microwave to occupy a standard 600mm wide draw which keeps the device clear of the work top even when opening the door.

The unit has a glass lid which flips open for access, the oven has a turntable-less design, and the controls are placed along the top edge of the front panel.

Features include the mode stirrer, an extremely slow rotating aluminum blade that replaces the regular turntable. The front door is a hollow stainless steel structure, housing the electronics. It includes a magnetic steel switch that turns off the microwave instantly, protecting against accidental opening. The steel handle is attached to borosilicate glass containing the capacitive touch screen for navigation.

When users need to heat up their food, one simply pulls the Innowave out and pops the top. The microwave is surprisingly deep and looks like it could easily hold double to what a normal microwave can handle.

Gallery

Related Posts:

• Miele Steam Oven Review: the Vitasteam DG 1050
• Miele to launch Combination Steam Oven in April
• Miele CVA 3650 ST Coffee Maker Review

Original article: Innowave hides the microwave under cover
From Machines that go Bing

Such a remote-controlled dozer could be useful in the decommissioning of nuclear power stations, chemical plants and sewers.

But what makes the Cynomy particularly useful in these environments is the array of tools that can be added to the robotic arms on the side of the vehicle that allow it to perform myriad tasks.

The design of the remote control is based on robotic arm control systems, and is operated with both hands, reflecting the operator’s arm movements to the arm movements of Cynomy. Electric motors located within each of the airless tires drive the robot. Synchronized with the electric controller, each can move in opposite directions for tight turns.

Where there is a need for increased traction – climbing stairs, construction debris etc – modular and steel-rienforced rubber tracks are assembled on the wheels

The main source of illumination is the LED headlight around the front ventilation grill. The slight angle is to increase the lamps effective coverage.

Cymony is driven by the four in-wheel electric motors. These are synchronized by an electrical system and can move in opposite directions for tight turns.

Optics and sensors are placed at the top of the turret to give a wide and clear field of view during operation. The compartment is protected by a steel grill.

Four metal carabiners are placed on each corner for easy transportation around the site

There are four ports at the back. The first one is a charging input, the next two are standard electrical outputs and the last one is a lighter socket

Cameras have been placed on the tool brackets with an LED rim light placed around the lens. The camera moves simultaneously with the tool head.

When the Cymony's charge is low, a circular light around the central axle glows red to warn the operator.

Key Points

• Remote control system’s design is based on robotic arm control systems
• The aim is to increase efficiency by two-handed operation
• Controls mimic the movement of the operator’s arms to create a direct action-reaction relationship
• Such a controller would improve the learning curve of a new operator
• During transport the arms can be folded for a smaller footprint around the site

Remote Components

Hardened Casing

2. LCD screen and visor and 3. abdominal support / handle

4. Arm support and 5. battery compartment

Related Posts:

• Peugeot BB1 concept car launched in London
• Samsung MSTV concept
• Andrew Chase’s mechanical cheetah stalks the underworld
• Orange unveils the Solar concept — the eco-friendly tent
• Nokia E97 concept phone by Fabien Nauroy

Original article: Demolition robot — you know you want one!
From Machines that go Bing

Screens

The Samsung Celox will sport a 4.5-inch Super AMOLED display with a resolution of 800 x 480.

It has been reported that in its latest incarnation Apple will slightly increase the screen size from 3.5 inches to 3.7 inches and will be an edge-to-edge display, occupying the entire face of the phone. It is unlikely that Apple will opt for a 4-inch plus display as the increase in size will result in a drop in pixels-per-inch. Anything over 300 ppi is considered retina display. A 3.7 inch display has a ppi of 312 — a drop of 13 ppi from the iPhone 4′s 326 ppi. So even though most Android phones feature 4.3 inch displays Apple is likely to remain conservative.

Cameras

The Celox is rumoured to come with an 8MP rear-facing camera and a 2MP front-facing camera.

Speculation suggests that the iPhone 5 will feature an 8MP camera with dual-LED flash.

Apple has already ordered 90% of its 8MP camera sensors from OmniVision. However, the Celox’s Qualcomm Snapdragon APQ8060 processor has the capability to support a 16MP camera and the ability to capture and display 1080p stereoscopic 3D video or 8 megapixel stereoscopic still images. Thus, there is greater room for optimization in Samsung’s offering.

Processors

The Samsung Celox is expected to be powered by a 1.5GHz dual-core Qualcomm Snapdragon APQ8060 processor.

Rumors state that the iPhone 5 will be powered by the A5 dual-core processor, which currently powers its iPad 2.

While the A5 dual-core chipset can challenge the Galaxy S2 and other NVIDIA Tegra 2 chip-based Android phones, it cannot match the power of dual-core 1.5GHz chip-sets. If Apple wishes to take on the expected new swathe of 1.5MHz Androids they may have to delay the launch of the iPhone 5 until later in the year when the A6 chips may be available.

Networking

Celox offers 800MHz LTE support, and thus it will possibly be targeted at Europe (US carriers support 700MHz). However it’s likely that a different version of the Celox will be launched in the United States. The Samsung Celox’s features are similar to those rumoured for the Hercules which is expected to arrive soon on the T-Mobile network.

Most of all it is surmised that Apple will not launch a 4G LTE compatible iPhone and that will give a straight run to Celox if it winds its way to the U.S. Analysts have forecast that Apple will forego LTE functionality in the iPhone 5 due to the limitation of the Qualcomm LTE chip-set which failed to achieve sufficient yields.

Other info

Related Posts:

• Apple launches iPhone 4S at ‘let’s talk iPhone’ event
• Apple announces new 15-inch MacBooks, OS X Snow Leopard and iPhone 3GS at WWDC
• More Apple media pad grist to the rumour mill
• Apple’s OS X Snow Leopard suggests new multi-touch features
• Apple patents always on display for iPhones

Original article: Samsung Celox Trumps Apple iPhone 5 ‘specs’
From Machines that go Bing

Warning: include(wp-content/themes/sandbox//ads/featured-musical-instruments.php) [function.include]: failed to open stream: No such file or directory in /home/jpegr0/public_html/wp-content/themes/sandbox/www.machinesthatgobing.com/featured/gavari.php on line 3

Warning: include() [function.include]: Failed opening 'wp-content/themes/sandbox//ads/featured-musical-instruments.php' for inclusion (include_path='.:/usr/lib/php') in /home/jpegr0/public_html/wp-content/themes/sandbox/www.machinesthatgobing.com/featured/gavari.php on line 3

Featured Post

Hopfgartner Gerda updates the traditional violin design

The iconic ‘figure-of-eight’ design of the orchestral violin has evolved little over the last 500 years so step up Hopfgartner Gerda to design a new form for the instrument based on the designs of ships and yachts of the 1950s as well as Baroque underwear! It’s called the “Gavari” Semi-acoustic violin and is product of a collaboration between designer Gerda and and a professional Viennese violin maker to guarantee the sound quality. The Gavari has curves that seem familiar and the instrument is played in exactly the same way as a traditional violin.

Here’s a list of all the articles in this section:

• Hopfgartner Gerda updates the traditional violin design
• Ovation iDea acoustic/electric guitar records your compositions as MP3s

Related Posts:

Original article: Musical Instruments
From Machines that go Bing

Warning: include(wp-content/themes/sandbox//ads/featured-ecological.php) [function.include]: failed to open stream: No such file or directory in /home/jpegr0/public_html/wp-content/themes/sandbox/www.machinesthatgobing.com/featured/solar-tent.php on line 3

Warning: include() [function.include]: Failed opening 'wp-content/themes/sandbox//ads/featured-ecological.php' for inclusion (include_path='.:/usr/lib/php') in /home/jpegr0/public_html/wp-content/themes/sandbox/www.machinesthatgobing.com/featured/solar-tent.php on line 3

Featured Post

Orange unveils the Solar concept — the eco-friendly tent

You might not think that tents are particularly damaging to the environment but Orange has found a way of reducing even the fabric flophouse's minuscule carbon footprint. They've done this not by reducing the energy usage of the tent itself but by focusing on the recharging of all those little gadgets that you're bound to have taken camping with you. Orange, alongside US product design consultancy Kaleidoscope, has used "Cutting edge eco-energy technology" has created a tent that allows campers to power their gadgets from a WiFi-enabled control panel incorporating a magnetic induction driven charging point. The charging point is in turn powered by photovoltaic fabric mounted on three 'glides' that slide over the top of the tent throughout the day so they're always pointing towards the sun. Kaleidoscope strategist, McKenty Aim said: The development of photovoltaic fabric will revolutionise festival tent design, in working with Orange we have created a vision of camping that we believe is glimpse to a great future. The tent also comes with a few other features: The 'glo-cation' feature makes the tent glow when the camper gets close to it (using RFID or an SMS message) so you can find it in the dark! You won't get cold at night either since the ground sheet incorporates under-floor heating. Orange's Solar tent is just a concept at the moment but will be on display at this year's Glastonbury festival.

Here’s a list of all the articles in this section:

• Orange unveils the Solar concept — the eco-friendly tent

Related Posts:

Original article: Ecological
From Machines that go Bing