Leaked: Upcoming HTC Eternity packs 1.5 GHz processor, front camera

A German website, HTC Inside, has released photos of what it says is the new HTC Eternity. Boasting a 4.7 inch screen, it is set to dwarf even the 4.3  inch HTC HD7S, and is set to be among the first WP7 phones to ship with the Mango update of the OS.

Apart from the WVGA Super LCD screen, a single core second generation Snapdragon 1.5 GHz chip powers the action. Other stats on the spec sheet appear pretty standard for its category,  an 8-megapixel auto-focus snapper with dual-LED flash that also si also good for 720p HD recording, the 1.3-megapixel front-facing cam, 16GB of internal storage, 14.4 Mbps HSDPA / 5.76 Mbps HSUPA connectivity, along with the usual Wi-Fi, DLNA, GPS and Bluetooth.

With such a  large display, battery life will surely be a sticking point. Lets hope the 1650 mAh battery does the trick.

Expect it around the time Mango update launches in Fall this year.

Nokia shuts down online stores in the US, UK

As Nokia falls in-line with its plan to promote and produce for Windows Phone 7, it now looks to shave off any units within its company that is no longer viable. The first rumblings have begun, with news today that the Finnish manufacturers have shut off its online store services in the US and UK. US users are now redirected to Amazon to purchase Nokia products.

According to Engadget, Nokia has also closed nearly all of its retail stores in the UK, with the exception of the company’s storefront located at London’s Heathrow Airport. According to a former employee, “poor marketing, high prices, slowing traffic and a high product return rate” were some of the reasons why the stores were packed up.

Additionally, AllThingsDigital reports that Nokia sold off its messaging division that provided “e-mail, instant messaging and other software for cellular carriers.” The business unit was sold to Synchronica, who have also taken over some of the company’s patents as well. The deal is expected to close in the third quarter.

MySpace changes hands, CEO quits

Buy high, sell low, what a business. In 2005, News Corporation spent $580 million to buy MySpace. Today it sold for  a fraction of that price, at a paltry $35 million to advertising firm Specific Media.

Current CEO Mike Jones will be leaving the company, and it looks like the job cuts will run even deeper than the expected 150 employees (37.5% of the total workforce). Some reports are already indicating that this number could go upto as much as 50% of the workforce; and that the service may in future concentrate on music.

Once a leader in social media, MySpace was put up for sale by News Corp.  in February, for a $100 million expected value. However, because of constantly plummeting value and influence,  it has lost significant revenue. At the peak, MySpace had a valuation of a billion dollars. Apparently, it seems that present owner News Corp will keep a 5-10% share of the company, though the deal is not yet closed.

And reportedly, one of the new owners is Justin Timberlake, so the music connection starts making more sense. Lets see how high this can fly.

Memo and Press Release:

From: Mike Jones
Sent: Wednesday, June 29, 2011 11:26 AM
To: Myspace All
Subject: IMPORTANT COMPANY NEWS
Importance: High

Myspacers,

Today, we are announcing that Myspace will be acquired by Specific Media, one of the world’s leading online media and advertising platforms. Over the next few days you will be hearing from the team at Specific, including their CEO, Tim Vanderhook, regarding their exciting plans for Myspace and how it fits in with the overall vision of their company.

In conjunction with the deal, we are conducting a series of restructuring initiatives, including a significant reduction in our workforce.  I will assist Specific with the transition over the next two months before departing my role as Myspace CEO.

I wanted to take a minute to thank you all for the incredible experience it has been to lead this company and to work closely with all of you over the past several years. While I regret we won’t be working together at Myspace any longer, I am very proud of the work we have done here and believe we have performed with excellence – even under extremely difficult circumstances.

My time here at Myspace represents the most engaging and challenging time of my professional career. I have found our team to be comprised of the best people I have come across in our industry.

You can read the press release below.  Once again, thank you for all of your hard work and dedication.

Thanks,

-M

SPECIFIC MEDIA ACQUIRES MYSPACE FROM NEWS CORPORATION

Los Angeles, Calif. — June 29, 2011 – Specific Media, a digital media company, today announced it has acquired Myspace from News Corporation. As part of the agreement, News Corporation will take a minority equity stake in Specific Media. Additional terms of the agreement are confidential and will not be disclosed.

“Myspace is a recognized leader that has pioneered the social media space. The company has transformed the ways in which audiences discover, consume and engage with content online,” said Tim Vanderhook, Specific Media CEO. “There are many synergies between our companies as we are both focused on enhancing digital media experiences by fueling connections with relevance and interest. We look forward to combining our platforms to drive the next generation of digital innovation.”

Specific Media is an innovative global interactive media company that enables advertisers to connect with consumers in meaningful, impactful and relevant ways. Founded in 1999 by brothers Tim, Chris and Russell Vanderhook, Specific Media is currently headquartered in Irvine, CA and operates offices around the world.

What do you think, give us a shout below!

Angry Birds finally hits Windows Phone 7 Platform

The taunts can now end. A long-awaited moment for owners of Windows Phone 7 has arrived, today Microsoft finally launched Rovio’s bestselling Angry Birds title on the Windows Phone platform.

The game has had a combined total of over 250 million downloads across all platforms and was undoubtedly one of the great runaway hits of 2010, and one of the largest mobile app success stories the world has seen so far. This resounding success has led to Awards by major publications like IGN and at the Appy and Webby Awards.

This is what the description says:

“Angry Birds is coming to Windows Phone! The survival of the angry birds is at stake. Dish out revenge on the green pigs who stole the birds’ eggs. Use the unique destructive powers of the angry birds to lay waste to the pigs’ fortified castles. Each of the 165 levels requires logic, skill and brute force to crush the enemy.”

The game goes for $2.99 with a free trial, as usual, though we’re skipping right to Buy. You can get it now by going over to the Marketplace. Hit us up in comments and let us know what you think

Google quietly launches Google+

Yesterday Google announced the launch of their new social networking endeavor: Google+. With the ever increasing threat from Facebook, who have just passed their 750 millionth user, Google is well aware of the fact that people like to share things/ get suggestions from friends rather than just a search engine.

While Google Buzz wasn’t exactly the Twitter killer people thought it would be, Google is attempting to roll out a better social networking software in the form of Google+, which isn’t necessarily out to conquer Facebook, just hurt it’s market share enough for Google to have a massive lead of daily usage once again.

This new service introduces the idea of +Circles which allows users to create multiple categories of “friends”, separating out friends from family, co-workers, etc. instead of having everyone under the “friends” umbrella. Then there is +Sparks which is essentially you getting feeds from Google themselves on any interest you have specified, allowing you to discover and share new links with your friends.

There are other notable features like +Hangout which is just group video-chatting with your friends at the touch of a button. The idea behind it is to ease the function of video conferencing by showing people you’re just… hanging around. Similarly +Mobile is just about sharing your location with friends and much more. And then there’s +Huddle which is sort of like a personal messenger amongst a specific +Circle of your friends.

All in all, Google+ seems to be a step in the right direction towards combating the global reach that Facebook has, but in a more subtle way. Whether this new tech will adopted by the masses or remain in close use with a relatively small number of people remains to be seen. For now, you can signup for Google+ beta, but know that’s being tested in limited use with selective invites only.

Kingston launches small and slim DataTraveler 108 USB

Press release:
With its small and slim design, the new Kingston DataTraveler 108 fits anywhere while protecting your data. Available in 4GB, 8GB and 16GB with each capacity offering a different colour, the DataTraveler 108 also features a handy key loop that lets users transform this stylish tiny drive into a fashion accessory with the use of a lanyard.

The DataTraveler 108 comes with urDrive , preloaded software that gives users a new and exciting way to look at their data. It comes with a five-year warranty, 24/7 tech support and our legendary Kingston reliability.

For more information on the DataTraveler 108 click visit our website: http://www.kingston.com/ukroot/flash/dt108.asp

For high resolution images of the DataTraveler 108 click here

Kingston DT108 Features and Specifications:
• Capacities — 4GB, 8GB, 16GB
• Dimensions — 1.47″ x 0.78″ x 0.39″ (37.33mm x 19.97mm x 10.00mm)
• Operating temperature — 32°F to 140 °F (0°C to 140°F)
• Storage temperature — -4 °F to 140 °F (-20 °C to 85 °C)
• Convenient — pocket-sized for easy transportability
• Customisable — Personalisation programme available
• Simple — just plug into a USB port
• Handy — mini size
• Guaranteed — five-year warranty
• Preloaded — with urDrive software (optional)
• Fashionable — Available in multiple colours: 4GB – blue, 8GB – red, 16GB – grey

Sony announces new VAIO Z laptop, has Power Dock with 1GB GPU

Sony yesterday announced a brand new VAIO Z laptop that oozes oommph and performance from its slim 2.6 pounds figure.

The laptop features a 13.1″ 1600 x 1900 display, 2.7GHz Intel Core i7 processor, a 256GB SSD hard disk, AMD Radeon HD graphics chip, and an unspecified amount of DDR3 SDRAM. If that’s not enough juice (it never is), buyers can purchase an optional Power Dock that provides multi-display setup, 1GB GPU, comes with either DVD or Blu-ray drive, and also offers support for Intel’s new Light Peak port.

Of course, all that jazz will cost a lot as well – specifically $4,320 a lot. That’s AED 15,000+. Full PR below.

Press release:
Weighing little over a kilogram, the new VAIO Z Series notebook PC from Sony is created for mobile professionals who demand absolute performance and portability.

VAIO Z blends ultra-desirable styling and premium carbon fibre with no-compromise specifications and innovative productivity features. In the office or on the road, this class-leading business notebook helps demanding users work more efficiently with the ultimate in on-the-move computing power.

All-new VAIO Z takes cutting-edge styling by Sony to new extremes, with a ‘full flat’ body and display lid that are crafted in tough, ultra-light carbon fibre. At just below 1.2kg and 16.65mm slim, the new VAIO Z is the perfect partner for business travellers who demand ultimate power with less to carry.

On-the-go usability is enhanced further by the backlit keyboard with extra-wide palm rest and ergonomic new ‘button-less’ touchpad. With a resolution of 1600×900, the 33.2cm (13.1”) VAIO Display Premium features an anti-reflective coating that cuts glare from direct light sources and ensures crisp colour reproduction.

Performance is everything you’d expect from the most sophisticated VAIO notebook yet. Latest-generation standard voltage Intel® Core™ i7 processors are teamed with speedy DDR3 SDRAM and up to 256GB SSD RAID storage to blaze through the toughest workload with ease.

As an extra refinement, Quick Boot saves precious time when you’re in a hurry, loading Genuine Windows® 7 Professional up to 50% quicker than conventional notebooks. Embedded VAIO ‘everywair’ 3G WWAN on selected models connects via your mobile broadband operator.

Power Media Dock™

The performance of VAIO Z Series is taken to new extremes by the unique Power Media Dock2, a monolithic expansion module that links with VAIO via an optical cable. The proprietary port can also be used to attach regular USB devices to VAIO when it’s not docked.

Featuring high-speed I/O data transfer based on the architecture codenamed ‘Light Peak’, Power Media Dock boosts graphics performance while adding numerous extra connectivity options. It includes an optical drive for even greater business productivity and satisfying HD entertainment. The module comes supplied with a stylish design-matched stand.

With Power Media Dock added, VAIO Z can manage up to four displays (including the notebook screen) via HDMI™ and/or VGA output ports. In this configuration, VAIO Z makes a compelling choice for design, finance and science professionals who need to work across several screens simultaneously. New-generation AMD Radeon HD graphics with 1GB VRAM effortlessly handle demanding graphics tasks, from 3D CAD to gaming.

When docked, connectivity options are boosted by additional USB ports plus VGA and HDMI outputs. Power Media Dock also sports an optical drive bay that can be specified with a Blu-ray Disc™ or SuperMulti combo drive. Games and movies on DVD or Blu-ray Disc sound as good as they look with latest Dolby® Home Theater® v4.

Sheet battery

VAIO Z features the innovative ‘sheet battery’ already showcased on this year’s VAIO S Series. The notebook’s internal lithium polymer battery provides power for up to 7 hours1 on-the-go computing. It’s partnered by a second thin, flat optional lithium polymer sheet battery that can be charged separately from the PC and added without removing the internal battery. The sheet battery attaches without having to switch off the PC, boosting stamina to up to 14 hours1 for day-and-night working, even if you’re far from mains power.

VAIO Z delivers a richer communication experience if you’re staying in touch with colleagues via video conference or web chat. The HD web camera powered by Exmor™ technology ensures detailed-packed video even in low light.

There’s a full range of official accessories from Sony, style-matched to complement the looks and performance of your VAIO. Many more configuration options – including a Full HD (1920 x 1080) LCD – are available exclusively to online shoppers at Sony Store.

The new 2011 VAIO Z Series of ultra-portable performance notebook PCs is available from the end of July 2011 (actual date of availability varies by country).

Google Android sees 500,000 activations everyday

Google has said that its seeing about 500,000 activations everyday for Android-based devices, once again showing the tremendous growth the platform has had over the year.

The news was tweeted by Google’s vice president Andy Rubin, which said that activations are growing 4.4 percent week over week for the mobile platform.

To put the number into a clearer perspective – Android hit the 100,000 activations per day milestone in May 2010, which jumped to 300,000 a day in December 2010. By May 2011, Android was receiving as much as 400,000 activations a day, with about 100 million cumulative devices activated.

Google now hopes that its Honeycomb-based devices, and the upcoming Ice Cream Sandwich version pushes the numbers even forward.

Rumor: MySpace going out for $20 – $30 million

There were times when MySpace would be in the news for all the good reasons (well, mostly for its music…and insanely crappy user websites), however these days the only news associated with the quickly dwindling social networking website is of an acquisition. Today shall be not different, as sources at AllThingsDigital reports that the company is looking at a $20 – $30 million sell-off.

According to the report, four groups are vying for the website. Two are named – Golden Captial, which is a private equity firm; and Specific Media which is mainly an advertising network. Two other groups are mentioned, both having former MySpace co-founders, namely Tom Anderson and Chris DeWolfe, resp.

Earlier today TechCrunch reported that the website has shed off about 150 employees from its current 450 base. The company, reportedly, is however letting the employees work for a few weeks till they find a new job.

MySpace was founded in 2003 and was an instant success among the youth, and budding musicians. However it quickly lost its luster after the launch of Facebook, and despite a visual upgrade and added features, has failed to recapture its audience.

Cooler Master Storm Enforcer Mid-Tower Case Review

Quote: Cooler Master has always made a good impression with their cases, and the Storm Enforcer mid-tower case continues this tradition. Some of the things that would-be buyers might be most pleased to see include tool-less drive installation, water cooling grommets, support for long video cards, good cable management features, and support for solid state drives.

http://bigbruin.com/content/cmenforcer_1

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