Microsoft co-founder sues Apple, Facebook, Google, and others

Paul Allen, co-founder of Microsoft, has decided to sue almost the entire Silicon Valley for infringing on his patents, according to a report from Wall Street Journal.

The companies involved in the lawsuit are AOL, Apple, eBay, Facebook, Netflix, Office Deport, OfficeMax, Staples, Yahoo! and Youtube. Although Allen never actually developed any of the technologies himself, he claims ownership of the patents listed in the lawsuit – apparently developed at a now-defunt Silicon Valley laboratory owned him.

The four patents include a ‘suggestion’ feature which displays similar items that a consumer is currently viewing on a website. Another parent allows readers to view related stories to the one they are currently reading, a feature provided in almost all news-type websites on the web. The other two patents is of a feature that enables ads, stock quotes, news updates and video images to flash on a computer screen, based on the user’s current activity. Going by the patents, Mr. Allen should sue all of the Internet then!

A Google spokesperson said the lawsuit is an unfair way to get an edge over the competition: “This lawsuit against some of America’s most innovative companies reflects an unfortunate trend of people trying to compete in the courtroom instead of the marketplace.”

Source: Wall Street Journal.

ZOTAC ups the ante on Mini-PCs by releasing ION+CULV based platforms

There is great news for HTPC owners that have been playing with the ION based pizza boxes for a while. Zotac is giving these boxes a nice shot in the arm by releasing Celeron/CULV based systems that perform a lot better than Atom based systems that we’ve been witnessing for the past year or so. Now if they can finally add an iR port to it.

The following is the PR for it.

PR: ZOTAC International, a leading innovator and the world’s largest channel manufacturer of graphics cards, motherboards and mini-PCs, today revolutionizes the award-winning ION platform with the processing power of Intel consumer low-voltage, or CULV, processors for new platforms with superior performance capabilities while maintaining class-leading energy-efficiency. The new ZOTAC ION platforms powered by Intel CULV processors include the new ZBOX HD-ND22, HD-NS21 mini-PCs, ION-ITX N series and ION-ITX P series mini-ITX platforms.

An Intel Celeron SU2300 processor powers the ZOTAC ZBOX HD-ND22 and ION-ITX P series with dual-cores clocked at 1.3 GHz for multi-threaded processing power that delivers unprecedented performance levels in an energy-efficient mini-PC for demanding users. A Single-core Intel Celeron 743 processor powers ZOTAC ZBOX HD-NS21 and ION-ITX N series platforms for outstanding single-threaded CPU performance.

“Intel CULV processors have previously been exclusive to ultra-portable notebooks, but not anymore. We’ve taken the award-winning Intel CULV processors and paired them with our award-winning ION platforms to produce the world’s first mini-PCs and mini-ITX platforms that combine the power of Intel CULV processors with NVIDIA ION™ graphics processing for the perfect combination of CPU and GPU performance with superior energy-efficiency,” said Carsten Berger, marketing director, ZOTAC International.

NVIDIA ION graphics empower the Intel CULV-powered ZOTAC ZBOX and ION-ITX platforms with outstanding 3D capabilities and support for Microsoft DirectX 10, DirectCompute and NVIDIA CUDA-enabled applications for energy-efficient GPU computing. NVIDIA PureVideo HD technology delivers flawless GPU-accelerated high-definition video playback with breathtaking clarity and details.

ZOTAC ZBOX HD-ND22 and HD-NS21 mini-PCs with Intel CULV processors feature class-leading flexibility with an easily customizable tool-less chassis and room to accommodate a 2.5-inch SATA 3.0 Gb/s HDD or SSD, two DDR3 SO-DIMM memory slots, integrated 802.11n WiFi and four different placement positions – flat, on a stand, on the back of a monitor or on a wall with the included VESA75/100-compatible mount. External expansion options include plenty of USB 2.0 ports, a 6-in-1 memory card reader that supports SD, SDHC, MMC, Memory Stick, Memory Stick Pro and xD memory card formats, and an eSATA 3.0 Gb/s port for plug ‘n play expansion.

ZOTAC ION-ITX N and P series are world-class platforms that combine the miniature size of mini-ITX with big-system expansion capabilities including a PCI Express x16 slot, two DDR3-1066 DIMM slots, three SATA 3.0 Gb/s ports, up to 10 USB 2.0 ports and an eSATA 3.0 Gb/s port. Onboard 802.11n WiFi and Gigabit Ethernet port enables lightning-fast network transfers for stutter-free high-definition video streaming

Golden Systems to distribute Kingmax ‘Invisible Heat Sink’ DRM Module

Press release:
Golden Systems Middle East, a leading distributor of IT products, announced the launch of the world’s first invisible heat sink DRAM module, the KINGMAX DDR3 2200MHz with Nano Thermal Dissipation Technology, in the Middle East region. The new KINGMAX DDR3 2200MHz memory module, which presents the best efficiency running at the highest bandwidth up to 17.6GB/s, allows more data input and increases the system operating capability, is a perfect fit for enthusiasts, gamers and bench-markers. Currently, KINGMAX applies the technology onto its overclocking Hercules series including 1600MHz, 2000MHz and 2200MHz.

“Golden Systems is pleased to launch the new KINGMAX DDR3 2200MHz, which is a breakthrough in technology.  It is the first DRAM module adopted Nano Thermal Dissipation technology (which named “invisible heat sink”) in the world. Nano Thermal Dissipation Technology is to utilize nano-sized silicon and DLC (diamond-like-carbon) compound as the medium to increase the release of radiant heat.  With KINGMAX’s advanced packing technology to integrate the material onto the chips, it shows great effect to pull the heat from the surface at a faster rate than the normal heat sink. By adopting the invisible heat sink, it provides superior heat dissipation effect to boost overclocking performance and stability of the system,” says Ms. Gloria Choy, Product Manager at Golden System Middle East.

“Compared to the normal heat sink, which usually equips on the DRAM module, the KINGMAX DDR3 2200 MHz has the advantage of compact size which improves the air flow inside the case. The no power request design also offers an economical operating environment, as well as compact product and package design reduces extra waste and transportation to green the environment,” Ms. Choy adds.

KINGMAX Group is the world’s first RAM/memory card module manufacturer that features vertical industrial integration capabilities and solid R&D capability and innovative cutting-edge patented technology. Upholding “Quality comes from perfection in technology”, KINGMAX insists on and endeavours for continual innovation. Its faith in its unique products ensures they continue to take the world by storm. In addition, all KINGMAX products undergo rigorous testing before delivery to ensure the best quality. Lifetime warranty services are also provided so you can set your mind at rest when buying the products.  KINGMAX products have been passed the SGS testing and compliant with RoHS standard. For more information please visit http://www.kingmax.com

Google Voice teams up with Gmail

In a press event, Gmail announced that it has merged Google Voice with its popular email service Gmail.

Users can make calls to mobile and landlines for 2c/min in a preset list of countries, while the service will be free in US and Canada. As usual, of course, the service is not available in the UAE yet and will probably be banned if it were.

The service won’t require a Google Voice account, however you won’t be able to use a customized number.

According to Gizmodo, the voice quality is “really good” even when using a laptop with a built-in microphone and speaker. Google said that they have implemented a “really good echo cancellation” system into the service. Gizmodo has a few pictures from the press event, which are embedded below along with Google’s introduction video.

Logitech’s Z623 speaker system ready to rock

Press release:
For big, bold sound from your music, movies and games, Logitech unveiled the THX Certified Logitech Speaker System Z623. With this 2.1 system, you’ll hear and feel immersive audio from 200 watts (RMS) of power whether you’re connecting the speakers to a PC or a TV.

“Whether you’re listening to rock music, watching a Steven Spielberg flick, or playing your favourite video game, the experience is always richer when you get engrossed in the audio,” said Mark Schneider, vice president and general manager of Logitech’s audio business unit. “That’s why we built the Logitech Speaker System Z623 – so you can lose yourself in whatever you’re into. For DVD aficionados, music enthusiasts and hardcore gamers, the Z623 system delivers powerful audio for your room. And with THX certification, you know you’re getting the best.”

So you can set up the system the way you want, Logitech includes all the inputs and cables you need to get great sound from up to three audio devices. With the RCA and 3.5 mm inputs, in addition to the built-in headphone jack, you can be set up in minutes to enjoy great sound from your computer, game console, digital music players, TV or DVD player. And to put you in command, the integrated controls on the right speaker satellite let you dial the volume and bass up or down to customize your listening experience.

Logitech and THX – Delivering Pure Performance
To get you totally immersed in your audio, the Logitech Z623 speakers are THX Certified and professionally engineered to recreate the tonal balance of whatever you’re listening to. To qualify for THX certification, the two-satellite-and-subwoofer Z623 speaker system has to meet strict performance standards. Logitech engineers have worked closely with THX, conducting more than 400 acoustic and electrical bench tests covering frequency response, power output, distortion, noise and overall performance. For the Logitech Z623 speakers, the result is front speakers that deliver dialogue and ambient sounds so clear it’s like you’re on the set of your favourite film. And you’ll hear powerful, deep bass from your subwoofer as it recreates the roar of a jet engine or the sound of a collapsing bridge.

Pricing and Availability
The Logitech Speaker System Z623 is expected to be available in the UAE in October for a suggested retail price of AED849.

ECS P55H-AK Black Series review

There’s been a lot of mainstream tech this week at the Tbreak HQ. Earlier we reviewed the mid-level enthusiast motherboard from Gigabyte, the X58A-UD3R, and today we’ll be looking at a proper high-end mainstream motherboard. Why’s the ECS P55H-AK a “high-end mainstream” board? Well, it’s a LGA 1156 for starters, as opposed to the LGA 1366 X58A-UD3R, so no high-end Core i7 processors to be seen here. That said, the ECS P55H-AK is a Black Series motherboard, and as such it’s chock full of enthusiast specific features.

Apart from the User Guides and Driver CD, the ECS P55H-AK is packaged with four SATA cables and three SLI connectors, but it also comes with a 3.5” bracket for two USB 3.0 ports. This is thanks to the extra NEC chip, one of which provides two USB 3.0 ports on the rear I/O panel. Speaking of which, the ECS P55H-AK also has two Marvell SATA3 chips which provide two SATA 6Gb/s chips on the board and two more eSATA 6 Gb/s ports on the rear panel as well.

Extra goodies aside, the ECS P55H-AK supports 3-way SLI or CrossFireX along with support for unlocked Core i7 and i5 processors. Dual Channel memory can go all the way up to 2400 MHz with overclocking, supporting 16GB onboard. Besides that, the rear I/O panel also supports eight USB 2.0 ports, two gigabit LAN ports and your regular ports for 8 channel audio out.

The overall size and layout of the board is small enough to fit in any mid-sized ATX casing.

Seagate GoFlex Home 1TB Network Storage System Review

Quote: For the average home user, the Seagate GoFlex Home 1TB network storage system will be a nice addition to their network. It won’t replace a more powerful server or NAS, but it is substantially cheaper and easier to manage. In addition, the GoFlex Home provides the ability to remove the hard drive from the dock and use it elsewhere with other GoFlex compatible devices.

Link: http://www.bigbruin.com/content/goflexhome_1

Nox Audio Specialist Gaming Headset Review

Quote: “The Nox Specialist headsets are hands-down the most comfortable headsets we have used for gaming and for PC use ever. In fact, the competition for most bang-for-your-buck is not even close. At $80, these headsets seem like a steal. From the very first moment we tried the headsets on, we knew the Specialist were unique and … um, special! Everyone in the Legit Review bunker who has used this headset has said the same thing. You can wear this headset for long periods of time and at the end of the day and the headset would still feel comfortable and not heavy or irritating in the slightest…”

Logitech G510 Keyboard

Quote: Perhaps the most impressive attribute of the Logitech G510 is its sheer size. At over half a meter long this keyboard commands an impressive amount of desktop space, although not entirely unjustified. With a time and a half the amount of keys on a piano, finding space to locate these can be challenging. Logitech not only manages this but looks good while doing so with the G510.

Motorola Droid 2 Review

“When the second generation of a product is unveiled, you expect major upgrades from the first model. Motorola takes a different approach with the Droid 2, the follow-up to last year’s ground-breaking Droid, both from Verizon. Rather than a fanboy’s dream update, Droid 2 is barely a minor shift. If we were cynical, we’d say Droid 2 is Motorola’s greedy attempt to stabilize the price of the phone (the original is currently on sale at Best Buy for $49.99), now back up to $199.99. Considering the allure of the identically-priced but more feature-rich Droid X (despite reported problems with its implementation of Android 2.2), it’s even more surprising the Droid 2 isn’t more of a radical shift from the first Droid. Not that it’s a bad phone – but Motorola has missed an opportunity to take the slide-out keyboard Droid to the next level.”

Link to the review:

http://www.digitaltrends.com/cell-phone-reviews/motorola-droid-2-review/

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