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VIZIO Adds HDR10 Support to Select E-Series SmartCast Ultra HD Displays[teaser]Select E-Series displays are getting high dynamic range support.[/teaser] VIZIO has announced a new firmware update for select E-Series SmartCast Ultra HD Displays. The update adds HDR10 playback support for existing HDR Ultra HD Blu-ray players from Samsung (UHD-K8500) and Philips (BDP7501/F7), along with PS4 and Xbox One S game consoles. "The E-Series collection already stands out as a feature-rich entry-level option, packed with picture quality benefits typically reserved for higher-priced, more premium collections," said Matt McRae, Chief Technology Officer, VIZIO. "By offering the added benefit of HDR10 compatibility on select VIZIO SmartCast E-Series Ultra HD displays, we're giving even more consumers the ability to enjoy the benefits of High Dynamic Range content in their living rooms." VIZIO's E-Series Ultra HD displays feature Full-Array LED panels with up to 12 Active LED Zones. Additional features include Clear Action 240 technology, an ultra-fast 120Hz Effective Refresh Rate, VIZIO's Spatial Scaling Engine, and VM50 Ultra HD Engine for 4K upscaling. Likewise, the displays include support for the VIZIO SmartCast app on iOS and Android devices. Instead of jumping between apps, VIZIO SmartCast lets users search and browse content by genre across multiple apps at once directly on their tablets or smartphones. A standard IR remote control is included as well. Here's a full rundown of E-Series models eligible for the HDR10 firmware update: VIZIO SmartCast™ 55” E-Series™ Ultra HD Home Theater Display™ (E55-E1) MSRP $629.99 VIZIO SmartCast™ 55” E-Series™ Ultra HD Home Theater Display™ (E55-E2) MSRP $629.99 VIZIO SmartCast™ 60” E-Series™ Ultra HD Home Theater Display™ (E60-E3) MSRP $749.99 VIZIO SmartCast™ 65” E-Series™ Ultra HD Home Theater Display™ (E65-E0) MSRP $899.99 VIZIO SmartCast™ 65” E-Series™ Ultra HD Home Theater Display™ (E65-E1) MSRP $899.99 VIZIO SmartCast™ 70” E-Series™ Ultra HD Home Theater Display™ (E70-E3) MSRP $1,299.99 The HDR10 update will automatically be downloaded to supported E-Series displays once they have been connected to the internet. To enable HDR10 playback after the display has been updated, users need to open the VIZIO SmartCast remote control app, tap "Settings," press "Inputs," then "HDMI Color Subsampling," and then enable subsampling for the HDMI port the HDR-enabled Blu-ray player is connected to. VIZIO is also working to expand HDR10 playback support for additional players as they become available in the market. In addition to the E-Series, VIZIO's SmartCast Ultra HD lineup also includes the M-Series and P-Series with HDR10 and Dolby Vision support. Source: VIZIO via PR NewswirePosted Thu Feb 9, 2017 at 09:30 AM PST by: -
Hulu Updates VR App with New Social Features for Gear VR and Oculus Rift[teaser]New features have been added to the Hulu VR app.[/teaser] Hulu has announced an update for its Virtual Reality app for the Oculus Rift and Samsung Gear VR. The upgrade includes new support for avatars, touch controllers, and Oculus Rooms. With the Hulu VR app, users can enjoy Hulu content through an immersive virtual reality experience, offering access to the company's entire 2D library of content in 360 immersive virtual environments -- allowing viewers to watch programming in settings like a comfortable living room, a big screen theater, or a scenic beach. And the new update allows Gear VR and Oculus users to watch content together with their friends in the virtual environments through the Oculus Rooms feature. Likewise, the update also adds support for Avatars and Oculus Touch controllers with the Oculus Rift, allowing customers to interact with their VR environments while playback continues and customize their appearance. In addition, the app includes access to a growing collection of 360 degree videos and exclusive VR content, placing audiences right in the middle of the action. Currently the app offers more than 30 pieces of exclusive and premium content from Baobab Studios, Discovery Communications, Las Vegas, The National Geographic Channel, RYOT, Showtime Networks, SilVR Thread, Spoke, Studio Transcendent, The Uprising Creative and Viacom with or without a subscription. Likewise, the library includes Hulu's first original VR short film, 'The Big One.' The short was produced through a partnership with Lionsgate and invites users to witness a meteor shower that soon turns into an apocalyptic nightmare. In addition to the Gear VR and Oculus Rift, the Hulu VR app is also available through the PlayStation VR and Google Daydream. A current Hulu subscription starts at $8 per month with commercials. In addition, ad-free playback is available for $12 per month. Source: Hulu (Twitter) via EngadgetPosted Thu Feb 9, 2017 at 07:30 AM PST by: -
Netflix Debuts Trailer for 'Bill Nye Saves the World,' Streaming Premiere Set for April 21[teaser]The upcoming science themed talk show will start streaming in April. [/teaser] Netflix has released a trailer for its latest original series, 'Bill Nye Saves the World.' The talk show will be hosted by scientist, engineer, comedian, author, and inventor, Bill Nye. "Since the start of the Science Guy show, I've been on a mission to change the world by getting people everywhere excited about the fundamental ideas in science," said Bill Nye. "Today, I'm excited to be working with Netflix on a new show, where we'll discuss the complex scientific issues facing us today, with episodes on vaccinations, genetically modified foods and climate change. With the right science and good writing, we'll do our best to enlighten and entertain our audience. And, perhaps we'll change the world a little." Bill Nye – science guy, educator, mechanical engineer, and curator of curiosity – returns with a new show. Each episode of Bill Nye Saves the World tackles a specific topic or concept through lively panel discussions, wide-ranging correspondent reports from a crackerjack team, and Bill’s very special blend of lab procedure and sly personality. Check out the trailer below! 'Bill Nye Saves the World' will start streaming through Netflix on April 21. The series is being produced for Netflix by Bunim/Murray Productions with Gil Goldschein and Julie Pizzi serving as Executive Producers. Michael Naidus ('The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson') is on board as showrunner and Executive Producer. Likewise, Mike Drucker is listed as Head Comedy Writer and Phil Plait will serve as Head Science Writer. Other upcoming Netflix premieres include 'David Brent: Life on the Road' on February 10, 'I Don't Feel at Home in This World Anymore' on February 24, a new Amy Schumer comedy special on March 7, 'Love' season two on March 10, 'Iron Fist' on March 17, 'The Discovery' on March 31, '13 Reasons Why' on March 31, 'Sandy Wexler' on April 14, 'House of Cards' season five on May 30, 'Orange is the New Black' season five on June 9, and 'Stranger Things' season two on October 31. A current Netflix subscription starts at $10 for HD streaming and $12 for Ultra HD streaming. Source: NetflixPosted Thu Feb 9, 2017 at 06:30 AM PST by: -
Panasonic Announces Technics Grand Class SB-G90 Floor-Standing Speaker[teaser]The new premium speaker is designed to deliver excellent clarity and audio precision.[/teaser] Panasonic has detailed its new Technics branded Grand Class SB-G90 Floor-Standing Speaker. The model builds upon the linear-phase, point sound source speaker system, offering a wide sound field. The floor-standing speaker features Balanced Driver Mounting Architecture to help reduce distortion and unwanted vibrations. In addition, the unit uses newly developed two-way coaxial cone units (including mid-range and tweeter). The 25-mm phase precision tweeter and two 16-cm low-distortion, long-stroke woofers are capable of sound reproduction in a wide frequency range of 27 Hz to 100 kHz. Here's a full rundown of key specs and features per the press release: Emotive Acoustic Technology - Balanced Driver Mounting Architecture - Point Sound Source Speaker System - Wide Range & Low Distortion Reproduction - Phase Precision Driver (Coaxial 2-way Speaker Unit) - 16-cm Low Distortion Long Stroke Woofer - High Rigidity Cabinet - High Quality Network Circuit Technics Definitive Design - Black High Gloss Finish - Magnet Fixed Fabric Grille Dimension (W x H x D) - 302 x 1114 x 375 mm (11-7/8 x 43-27/32 x 14-3/4 Inch) *Including Net and Terminals with Spike Weight - Approx. 32kg (Approx. 71lbs) /pc System - 3-Way 4 Speakers Bass Reflex (Including Coaxial 2-Way for Midrange and Tweeter) - Speaker Unit: Woofer: 16cm (6-1/2") Cone Type x2 Midrange/Tweeter: Coaxial, 16cm (6-1/2") Cone Type x1 / 2.5cm (1") Dome Type x1 - Crossover Frequencies: 480Hz, 3.2kHz - Frequency Range: 27Hz - 100kHz (-16dB), 32Hz - 85kHz (-10dB) - Sound Pressure Level: 88dB /2.83V (m) - Impedance: 4Ω - Input power (IEC): 100W (Rated), 200W (Max) - Recommended Amp. Power: 40-150W (Rated) Pricing and availability for the Grand Class SB-G90 Floor-Standing Speaker have not been announced yet. Source: Panasonic via PR NewswirePosted Thu Feb 9, 2017 at 05:30 AM PST by: -
Netflix Reveals June 9 Premiere Date for 'Orange is the New Black' Season 5[teaser]The streaming series will return to Netflix in June.[/teaser] Netflix has announced a premiere date for the upcoming fifth season of 'Orange is the New Black.' The new season will start streaming through Netflix on June 9. 'Orange is the New Black' is an hour-long series that stars Taylor Schilling, Uzo Aduba, Kate Mulgrew, Laura Prepon, Laverne Cox, Dascha Polanco, Danielle Brooks, Selenis Leyva, Samira Wiley, Taryn Manning, Yael Stone, Jackie Cruz, Lea DeLaria, Adrienne C. Moore and Elizabeth Rodriguez, along with Michael Harney and Nick Sandow. The show is based on the best-selling memoir of the same name by Piper Kerman, and follows a privileged New Yorker who ends up in a women's prison when a past crime catches up with her. The series is produced by 'Weeds' creator Jenji Kohan. Check out the season five date announcement teaser below! Seasons one, two, three, and four of 'Orange is the New Black' are now available to stream through Netflix. In addition to the upcoming fifth season, Netflix has already renewed the series for a sixth and seventh season. Other upcoming Netflix premieres include 'David Brent: Life on the Road' on February 10, 'I Don't Feel at Home in This World Anymore' on February 24, a new Amy Schumer comedy special on March 7, 'Love' season two on March 10, 'Iron Fist' on March 17, 'The Discovery' on March 31, '13 Reasons Why' on March 31, 'Sandy Wexler' on April 14, 'House of Cards' season five on May 30, and 'Stranger Things' season two on October 31. A current Netflix subscription starts at $10 for HD streaming and $12 for Ultra HD streaming. Source: NetflixPosted Wed Feb 8, 2017 at 07:30 AM PST by: -
BeatsX Wireless Earphones with Apple W1 Chip Set for February 10 Release[teaser]The new earphones will go on sale this Friday.[/teaser] Following a previous delay, Beats by Dre has announced a February 10 launch date for its latest audio device, the BeatsX Wireless Earphones. The earphones were originally set for release back in the fall of 2016. "Beats has always been dedicated to delivering the best possible music listening experience," said Beats president Luke Wood. "Now that almost everything we consume in media has a sound component, superior audio playback quality is key. With our new product, we are delivering great design, innovation and sound so that you can hear everything the way the content creators imagined." The in-ear headphones feature the new Apple W1 chip, offering easy setup and switching for Apple devices through Bluetooth, efficient battery life, and 5-minute Fast Fuel charging. In addition, the earphones use a Flex-Form cable for comfort and portability, along with four eartip size options for a personalized fit. A Siri-compatible RemoteTalk option is included as well, allowing users to take calls with an on-cable mic and play music with a remote. Finally, the BeatsX also offers optimized noise isolation. Here's a rundown of key feature per Beats by Dre: - Connect via Class 1 Bluetooth® with your device for wireless listening - Up to 8 hours of battery life for when you’re on the go - With Fast Fuel, a 5-minute charge gives you 2 hours of playback when battery is low - Variety of eartip options offer personalized comfort and secure-fit wingtips provide stability - Flex-Form cable provides all-day comfort with easy purse and pocket portability - Authentic, clear acoustics deliver crisp sound fit for your life - Take calls, control your music and activate Siri with RemoteTalk The BeatsX Wireless Earphones will be available for $149.95 on February 10 through Apple’s retail stores in the US, Apple.com, and authorized resellers. Source: Beats by Dre via EngadgetPosted Wed Feb 8, 2017 at 06:30 AM PST by: -
Panasonic Details Technics Brand SU-G700 Grand Class Stereo Integrated Amplifier[teaser]The premium audio component is designed for high-end sound reproduction.[/teaser] Panasonic's Technics brand has announced its latest audio product. The Grand Class SU-G700 Stereo Integrated Amplifier incorporates the JENO Engine (Jitter Elimination and Noise-shaping Optimization), LAPC (Load Adaptive Phase Calibration), and reference-class audio technology. The amplifier features a High-Rigidity Metal Double Chassis with a steel-plate inner chassis and a steel-plate outer chassis to help reduce vibration and noise. Likewise, the device uses a three-section construction with partitions installed between the circuit blocks according to the signal level handled, eliminating interference between circuit blocks for clear sound quality. In addition, the power amp section uses full digital amplification including a JENO Engine for natural and finely detailed audio. Here's a full rundown of key specs per the press release: Accurate Digital Technology• JENO Engine (Jitter Elimination and Noise-shaping Optimization)• LAPC (Load Adaptive Phase Calibration) • High-speed Silent Hybrid Power Supply• Battery Driven Clock Generator Noiseless Signal Technology• Digital Noise Isolation Architecture• Optimally Activated Circuit SystemTechnics Definitive Design• High Rigidity Aluminum Cabinet• High Rigidity Metal Double Chassis• 3-block Construction to Separate Power Supply, Amplifier and Signal Processing FTC Output Power• 140W + 140W (1kHz, T.H.D. 0.5%, 4Ω, 20kHz LPF)• 70W + 70W (1kHz, T.H.D. 0.5%, 8Ω, 20kHz LPF) Dimension (W x H x D)• 430 x 148 x 428 mm (16-15/16 x 5-13/16 x 16-27/32 inch) Weight• Approx. 12.3kg (Approx. 27.2lbs) Terminal• Digital Coaxial Input x2 / Digital Optical Input x2 / Analog Line Pin Input x2 / USB-B Input / Phono(MM) Input x1• Analog Pre Output / Analog Line Pin Output / Headphone Output Digital Input Format• USB-B: PCM up to 384kHz, 32bit / DSD 2.8MHz, 5.6MHz, 11.2MHz with Asynchronous Transfer Mode Pricing and availability for the Technics Grand Class SU-G700 Stereo Integrated Amplifier have not been announced yet. Source: PanasonicPosted Wed Feb 8, 2017 at 05:30 AM PST by: -
Netflix Releases Official Trailer for Marvel's 'Iron Fist,' Streaming Premiere Set for March 17[teaser]The final Defender will hit Netflix in March.[/teaser] Netflix has released an official trailer for Marvel's 'Iron Fist.' The upcoming show will start streaming exclusively through Netflix on March 17. Fifteen years after being presumed dead in a plane crash, Danny Rand (Finn Jones) mysteriously returns to New York City determined to reclaim his birthright and family company. However, when a long-destined enemy rises in New York, this living weapon is forced to choose between his family’s legacy and his duties as the Iron Fist. Check out the official trailer below! 'Iron Fist' will now join Netflix's growing collection of Marvel shows, including 'Daredevil,' 'Jessica Jones,' and 'Luke Cage.' In addition, Marvel and Netflix are also prepping a series based on 'The Punisher' and a team-up miniseries titled 'The Defenders' for later this year. 'The Defenders' will feature a crossover team-up between Daredevil, Jessica Jones, Luke Cage, and Iron Fist as they face their biggest threat yet. The series will star Charlie Cox, Krysten Ritter, Mike Colter, and Finn Jones, all reprising their roles from their individual shows. Douglas Petrie, Marco Ramirez, Drew Goddard ('The Martian,' 'Lost,' 'Alias'), and Jeph Loeb will all serve as Executive Producers for the mini-series. The show is being produced by Marvel Television in association with ABC Studios for Netflix. Other upcoming Netflix premieres include 'David Brent: Life on the Road' on February 10, 'I Don't Feel at Home in This World Anymore' on February 24, a new Amy Schumer comedy special on March 7, 'Love' season two on March 10, 'The Discovery' on March 31, '13 Reasons Why' on March 31, 'Sandy Wexler' on April 14, 'House of Cards' season five on May 30, and 'Stranger Things' season two on October 31. A current Netflix subscription starts at $10 for HD streaming and $12 for Ultra HD streaming. Source: NetflixPosted Tue Feb 7, 2017 at 04:15 PM PST by: -
YouTube Readies Mobile Live Streaming Support[teaser]YouTube users will soon be able to livestream video from their mobile devices.[/teaser] YouTube has announced plans to launch mobile live streaming. The feature is rolling out to creators with more than 10,000 subscribers first, but will eventually be available for all users. With mobile live streaming, YouTube creators will be able to stream content right from their mobile devices in real time. The feature is being integrated directly into the YouTube mobile app. To livestream, users simply need to open the app and then hit the capture button. Mobile live streaming videos have all of the same features as standard YouTube content, allowing them to be searched for, found via recommendations or playlists, and protected from unauthorized use. Likewise, prior to the launch, YouTube worked to refine mobile live streaming performance, slowing down live chat and improving streaming quality across different devices to ensure an optimized mobile experience. In addition, the company is also introducing a new live stream monetization tool called Super Chat. Available to creators in more than 20 countries, Super Chat gives viewers watching a live stream the option to purchase chat messages that become highlighted in bright colors and stay pinned to the top of the chat window for up to five hours. Outside of the new mobile live streaming features, YouTube also launched 4K Ultra HD live streaming support back in December, allowing creators to broadcast standard and 360 Ultra HD content in real time. In addition, the platform introduced HDR (high dynamic range) video playback and upload support last November. High Dynamic Range content offers enhanced contrast with more detailed highlights and shadows. Likewise, HDR YouTube videos also include support for a wider color gamut. Source: YouTubePosted Tue Feb 7, 2017 at 08:30 AM PST by: -
Amazon Announces March 3 Premiere Date for 'Annedroids' Season Four[teaser]The Emmy-nominated kids series will return in March.[/teaser] Amazon has announced a March 3 premiere date for the fourth season of its original series, 'Annedroids.' The Gold Parents’ Choice Award-winning kids show comes from producer/director J.J. Johnson ('Dino Dan') and Sinking Ship Entertainment ('Odd Squad'). "We're excited to debut a fourth season of Annedroids and proud of the notoriety and accolades this series has garnered within the television industry," said Tara Sorensen, Head of Kids Programming at Amazon Studios. "Our customers have embraced its inspiring characters and strong message of innovation and scientific discovery." 'Annedroids' is a live-action adventure series that follows Anne, a young female scientist, and her human friends, along with the android assistants she’s created, as they make amazing scientific discoveries while undertaking the biggest experiment of them all: growing up. Through trial and error, the series spotlights how science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) can inspire children to do great things. The fourth season of Annedroids returns with Anne (Addison Holley, Wishenpoof) and her friends, Nick (Jadiel Dowlin) and Shania (Adrianna Di Liello, Stage Fright), as they embark on more adventures and experiments with their android friends, including: Pal (voiced by Millie Davis, Odd Squad), who is fascinated by everything and loves asking questions; Eyes, whose ability to see things from all angles can get him into trouble; and Hand, who’s strong and dependable but a little bit clumsy; as well as Pidgely, a real pigeon who became a cy-bird when Anne gave him some robotic upgrades; Fangs, a robotic dog that can turn into a skunk, a porcupine and a snake; and Art, a former cleaning robot who defected from working with evil robotics scientist Ada at Magnus Tech. Seasons one, two, and three of 'Annedroids' are now available to stream through Prime Video. Season four will premiere on March 3 in the US and UK. "In Annedroids our characters never fail, they just discover new ways of doing things wrong until they get them right," says J.J. Johnson, series Creator and Executive Producer. "Expect grander discoveries, surprising character revelations and an explosive conclusion to Pal’s journey in this, our most ambitious season yet." A current Amazon Prime subscription costs $99 per year or $11 per month. Likewise, Prime Instant Video is available as a standalone service for $9 per month. Source: AmazonPosted Tue Feb 7, 2017 at 07:30 AM PST by:
