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Magnasonic Reveals LED Pocket Pico Video Projector, Price Set at $170[teaser]The new pico projector is now available. [/teaser] Magnasonic has announced the release of its latest video product. The company's new PP60 LED Pocket Pico Video Projector is now the world’s smallest portable DLP projector. The compact projector features a lightweight, plug-and-play design making it perfect for on-the-go use and home theater applications, including movie nights, camping trips, and corporate presentations. The device measures just 3.9 x 3.0 x 0.5 inches but is capable of projecting images at up to 60 inches in size. Using its 25 lumen LED DLP light engine, the projector offers an 1100:1 contrast ratio and a 640 x 360 pixel resolution. HDMI, Micro HDMI, & Samsung Galaxy adapters are included as well, allowing users to project content from their smartphone, tablet, laptop, gaming console, or any other HDMI player with input support for up to 1080p video. A 2100mAh battery is also integrated, providing up to two hours of playback after a single charge. Finally, the projector also incorporates an adjustable focus wheel to project at the perfect angle, adjustable volume controls, and a headphone jack to connect external headphones, earphones, or speakers. In addition to the LED Pocket Pico Video Projector, Magnasonic also sells the more robust PP71 Mini Portable Pico Video Projector that measures 3.9 X 3.9 X 0.88 inches. This larger model features support for images at up to 80 inches in size with a 100 lumen LED light engine, a 1000:1 contrast ratio, and a 854x480 pixel resolution. A 3800mAh rechargeable battery is integrated as well along with dual built in speakers. HDMI connectivity and 1080p input support are also included. The Magnasonic PP60 LED Pocket Pico Video Projector is now available for $170. Meanwhile, the PP71 Mini Portable Pico Video Projector is available for $280. Source: MagnasonicPosted Wed Mar 9, 2016 at 06:00 AM PST by: -
2016 Olympic Games to Feature 8K and Virtual Reality Broadcasts[teaser]Portions of the 2016 Olympics will be broadcast in 8K to Japan and in VR globally. [/teaser] The Olympic Broadcasting Services has announced plans to offer select 8K and Virtual Reality coverage for the upcoming 2016 Rio Olympic Games. The 8K broadcasts will only be available in Japan, but VR coverage will be available around the world. According to the OBS, about 130 hours of 8K Super Hi-Vision material from the game will be broadcast in Japan. Super Hi-Vision features a resolution of 7680 x 4320 and the 8K transmissions will also offer 22.2 channel immersive audio. 8K footage will include events like swimming, judo, athletics, basketball and football, along with live coverage of the opening and closing ceremonies. There is currently only one 8K display available in Japan, the Sharp LV-85001, but the country hopes to use the Rio 8K broadcasts as a test for the Tokyo Olympic Games in 2020. In addition, OBS will be testing down-converted 4K Ultra HD signals during the game as well, but it is unlikely that they will be broadcast to the public. Likewise, the company plans to experiment with wide color gamut and high dynamic range transmissions. Beyond 8K in Japan, OBS will also be offering Virtual Reality content from the game to viewers around the world. Users with compatible headsets will be able to enjoy select footage in immersive VR, including the opening and closing ceremonies and one key event per day. VR broadcasts will be available live and on-demand, and highlights will even be viewable to users without a headset. The 2016 Rio Olympic Games will be held on August 5 through August 21. All 7,000 hours of planned coverage will be presented in HD and 5.1 Surround Sound. Sources: Advanced-Television, Engadget, CNETPosted Tue Mar 8, 2016 at 03:30 PM PST by: -
Netflix Preps 'Chef's Table' Season 2 for May 27[teaser]The streaming documentary series will return to Netflix in May. [/teaser] Netflix has announced a premiere date for 'Chef's Table.' The show's second season will debut on May 27. In addition, the third season is set for later this year and the fourth season is scheduled for 2017. "We are thrilled to continue our partnership with David Gelb and his team. We couldn't think of a better way to follow such a visually stunning and engrossing first season than to profile 16 more exceptional chefs and to share their deeply personal stories with our members around the world. David's unique vision takes viewers around the world experiencing the secret richness of street food to the most celebrated kitchens in the world," said Lisa Nishimura, Netflix Vice President of Original Documentary Programming. 'Chef's Table' is a documentary series that focuses on chefs from all around the world. The show offers a personal look into each chef's life and work, elaborating on their cooking style, inspirations, backgrounds, and goals. Season two will consist of six episodes, season three will consist of four episodes, and season four will consist of six episodes. Here's a breakdown of the chef's set to be featured in each upcoming installment: 'Chef’s Table' Season 2 - May 27 - Alex Atala, Dom, (Brazil) - Ana Ros, Hiša Franko (Slovenia) - Dominique Crenn, Atelier Crenn (United States) - Enrique Olvera, Pujol (Mexico) - Gagan Anand, Gaggan (Thailand) - Grant Achatz, Alinea, Next, The Aviary (United States) 'Chef’s Table' Season 3 - French Installment, TBD 2016 - Alain Passard, L’Arpege (France) - Michel Troisgros, Maison Troisgros (France) - Adeline Grattard, Yam’Tcha (France) - Alexandre Couillon, La Marine (France) 'Chef’s Table' Season 4 - TBD 2017 - Ivan Orkin, Ivan Ramen (United States, Japan) - Jeong Kwan, Chunjinam Hermitage, Baekyangsa Temple (South Korea) - Nancy Silverton, Mozza (United States) - Tim Raue, Restaurant Tim Raue (Germany) - Virgilio Martinez, Central (Peru) - Vladimir Mukhin, White Rabbit (Russia) "With a wide range of disciplines and culinary talent, there was no way we could pack all of the incredible chef stories into one season," adds creator David Gelb. "I'm particularly excited that we will have episodes dedicated to female chefs Ana Ros, Dominique Crenn, Jeong Kwan, Nancy Silverton, and Adeline Grattard -- who will be one of four chefs we will highlight in our French season. I am beyond honored to be able to share a more personal look into each of these chefs’ lives with gastronomy experts and global households alike!" The entire six episode first season of 'Chef's Table' is now available to stream on Netflix. A current Netflix subscription starts at $10 for HD streaming and $12 for Ultra HD streaming. Source: NetflixPosted Tue Mar 8, 2016 at 11:45 AM PST by: -
HDD Gear Deal Spotlight: Up to 39% off Home Theater Speakers[teaser]Amazon is offering big discounts on select speakers! [/teaser] As part of the online retailer's ongoing deals, Amazon is running a special sale on speakers from Polk Audio, Sony, and Micca. Micca MB42 Bookshelf Speakers - Currently $61 (39% off). Sony SACS9 10-Inch Active Subwoofer - Currently $178 (26% off). Polk Audio TSx 330T Tower Speaker - Currently $187 (25% off). Polk Audio TSx 440T Tower Speaker - Currently $262 (25% off). Polk Audio TSx 550T Tower Speaker - Currently $375 (25% off). These deals will only be active for a limited time while supplies last. Make sure to stay tuned to High-Def Digest for more sales and special promotions!Posted Mon Mar 7, 2016 at 06:45 PM PST by: -
Funimation Launches FunimationNow Anime Streaming App for Mobile Devices, Titles Include 'Dragon Ball Z' & 'Cowboy Bebop'[teaser]The new anime streaming platform is now live. [/teaser] Funimation has announced the launch of its new mobile app, FunimationNow. The service offers access to the studio's extensive library of anime shows and films through iOS, Android, Kindle, and Windows 10 devices. "The introduction of the FunimationNow all-new mobile apps is our way of giving our loyal fans what they have always wanted and deserve -- a high-quality, immersive, and seamless experience," said Mike DuBoise, Chief Operating Officer of Funimation. "Now featuring Airplay and Chromecast support, episode sync across devices and marathoning, among other great enhancements, we made sure to load our mobile experience with the features our fans have been asking for." Titles available to stream include 'Dragon Ball Z,' 'Attack on Titan,' 'Fairy Tail,' 'Cowboy Bebop,' 'Assassination Classroom' and more. FunimationNow is available in three plans: Basic, Subpass, and All-Access Pass. Here's how the plans breakdown: BASIC: Free - limited anime library- video ads SUBPASS: $4.99/month - All subtitled anime including simulcasts- Unlimited device streaming (subtitled only)- Ad-free in HD ALL-ACCESS PASS: $7.99/month - All subtitled anime including simulcasts- All English-dubbed anime - Unlimited device streaming (subbed and dubbed)- Funimation Broadcast Dubs - English-dubbed episodes of select shows that are available within weeks of the Japanese broadcast - Exclusive video extras- Ad-free in HD iOS, Android, Kindle and Windows 10 mobile users can now download the new FunimationNow app. Support for the Apple TV and Amazon Fire TV is set to debut soon as well. Likewise, a fully re-designed game console app for PS4, PS3, Xbox One, Xbox 360 and Roku devices is expected to arrive in May 2016. Finally, a revamped Funimation website for streaming on laptops and desktops is also set for May. Source: Funimation via PR NewswirePosted Mon Mar 7, 2016 at 03:30 PM PST by: -
Samsung Offers Free Gear VR for Buyers of Galaxy S7 & S7 Edge Smartphones[teaser]Galaxy S7 customers can now claim their free Gear VR. [/teaser] Samsung is running a limited time promotion for buyers who purchase a Galaxy S7 or S7 Edge. From 2/23/16 through 3/18/16 customers who buy one of the company's new smartphones from a participating retailer can also receive a free Gear VR headset and six game bundle. Select stores and providers are also offering additional promotions. Qualified retailers include AT&T, Best Buy, Costco, Metro PCS, Sam's Club, Sprint, Target, T-Mobile, US Cellular, Verizon, Walmart, and more. In addition to the free Gear VR, T-Mobile is also offering a free year of Netflix. Likewise, Verizon customers can opt for a free Gear S2 smartwatch instead. The Galaxy S7 features a 5.1-inch screen while the S7 Edge features a 5.5-inch dual edge screen. Both displays use Quad HD Super AMOLED panels with a resolution of 2560x1440. Likewise, the smartphones now incorporate Always-On displays for easy zero touch access to notifications. The devices are constructed of 3D glass and metal and use an ergonomic design with IP68 water and dust resistance. Under the hood, the phones are powered by Octa core (2.3GHz Quad + 1.6GHz Quad) or Quad core (2.15GHz Dual + 1.6GHz Dual) processors with 4GB of RAM running Android 6.0. A rear Dual Pixel 12MP camera and a front 5MP camera are integrated as well. In addition, the smartphones include a hybrid SIM card tray that allows users to insert a microSD card for up to 200GB of additional storage. Finally, the S7 uses a 3,000mAh battery and the S7 Edge uses a 3,600mAh battery -- both with fast wired and wireless charging technology. Meanwhile, the Gear VR is a virtual reality headset that weighs just 318g and offers an FOV of 96 degrees. In addition to the Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge, the Gear VR is compatible with the Galaxy Note 5, S6 edge+, S6, and S6 edge smartphones, using each device's super AMOLED display to help create an immersive VR experience. Suggested retail price for the Gear VR is $99. Customers can claim their free Gear VR by clicking here. Source: Samsung via EngadgetPosted Fri Mar 4, 2016 at 02:45 PM PST by: -
Google Announces New Digital Documentary Series 'Moon Shot' from Executive Producer J.J. Abrams[teaser]The streaming documentary series is set for liftoff on March 15. [/teaser] Google has announced a new digital show from Executive Producer J.J. Abrams. 'Moon Shot' is a documentary series that focuses on the Google Lunar XPRIZE competition. The Google Lunar XPRIZE (GLXP) competition was created in 2007 and features 16 private teams from around the world as they embark on a race to the moon. The $30 million contest challenges participants "to design and build a rover, land it on the surface of the moon, drive it 500 meters across the lunar landscape, and send HD video and imagery back to Earth by the end of 2017." The first team to successfully complete the mission will be awarded a $20 million Grand Prize. Meanwhile, the second team to successfully complete the mission will be awarded a $5 million prize. 'Moon Shot' will offer a behind-the-scenes look at the entire process, covering each team's personal story, goals, challenges, and reasons for competing. The teams all come from varied backgrounds, including Silicon Valley tech experts, hackers in Germany, IT specialists in India, and a father and son working out of their Vancouver apartment. The nine episode digital series is being developed by Google, Academy Award nominated director Orlando von Einsiedel, Executive Producer J.J. Abrams, Bad Robot, and Epic Digital. Einsidel was nominated for an Oscar in 2015 for his feature length documentary 'Virunga.' 'Moon Shot' will premiere for free on Google Play on March 15. Likewise, the show will also be available on YouTube on March 17. Viewers can subscribe to the Google Lunar XPRIZE YouTube Channel to be one of the first to see it. More information is available at lunar.xprize.org. Sources: Google, XPRIZEPosted Fri Mar 4, 2016 at 01:30 PM PST by: -
Netflix Readies Limited Series 'Godless' from Steven Soderbergh & Scott Frank[teaser]A new limited series is on the way from the creative team behind 'Out of Sight.' [/teaser] According to a report from Variety, Netflix is developing a new limited series with Steven Soderbergh & Scott Frank. The upcoming hourlong show is titled 'Godless.' Though casting and plot details have not been announced yet, 'Godless' is said to be a western set in the 1880s. Steven Soderbergh, Scott Frank, and Casey Silver are all on board as executive producers for the show. Frank is also set to write and direct the series. Steven Soderbergh and Scott Frank previously worked together on the 1998 crime drama, 'Out of Sight,' starring George Clooney and Jennifer Lopez. Frank's other screenwriting credits include work on 'The Wolverine,' 'Minority Report,' and 'Get Shorty.' Likewise, the filmmaker previously wrote and directed the 2007 thriller, 'The Lookout,' starring Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Jeff Daniels, Matthew Goode, and Isla Fisher. In addition to 'Godless,' Steven Soderbergh's other current TV work includes 'The Knick' on Cinemax, 'The Girlfriend Experience' on Starz, and 'Red Oaks' on Amazon. A premiere date for 'Godless' has not been announced, but the series is set to be shot in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Netflix also recently announced a new German supernatural drama series called 'Dark,' and a new anime series called 'Perfect Bones.' Upcoming Netflix premieres include season four of 'House of Cards' which will launch on March 4, season two of Marvel's 'Daredevil' which will debut on March 18, the original film 'Pee-wee's Big Holiday' which is also due on March 18, and season two of 'Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt' which is set for April 15. A current Netflix subscription starts at $10 for HD streaming and $12 for Ultra HD streaming. Sources: Variety, The Hollywood ReporterPosted Thu Mar 3, 2016 at 01:00 PM PST by:
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Amazon Reveals Echo Dot & Amazon Tap Alexa-Enabled Devices, Prices Start at $90[teaser]Two new Alexa-enabled products have been detailed. [/teaser] Amazon has announced the launch of its latest Alexa-enabled devices. The Amazon Tap and Echo Dot now join the previously released Amazon Echo smart speaker. The Amazon Tap is designed to serve as a mobile version of the Echo. The Tap is a portable Alexa-enabled speaker with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. The device uses dual stereo speakers with Dolby processing to offer 360 degree omni directional audio. Users can simply tap the microphone button to enable the Alexa Voice Service, allowing them to ask for music, make searches, hear news, order products and more. The speaker is rated for up to nine hours of playback. The Amazon Tap is now available for pre-order for $130. Shipments will begin on March 31. Meanwhile, the Echo Dot is a hands free, voice controlled puck shaped device. Just like Echo, Dot uses far-field voice recognition. The product is designed to be connected to existing speakers through an audio cable of Bluetooth, allowing users to add voice control to their sound systems. In addition, the device also includes a small integrated speaker for use as an alarm clock or a voice assistant for smart home devices. Echo Dot is currently available exclusively to Prime members for $90 through Alexa Voice Shopping in limited quantities. Buyers simply need to say "Alexa, order an Echo Dot," into their Echo or Fire TV to make a purchase. Finally, Amazon's previously released Alexa-enabled Echo smart speaker is currently available for $180. The Echo is an always-on device that uses Wi-Fi to connect to the cloud through Amazon Web Services, allowing customers to ask for information, music, news, weather, and more. Likewise, thanks to its cloud integration, Echo actually adapts to your speech patterns, vocabulary, and personal preferences over time. The speaker features Far-field voice recognition that uses seven microphones to pick up a customer's commands. A 2.5-inch woofer and a 2-inch tweeter are integrated as well, offering 360 degree omni directional audio. Source: AmazonPosted Thu Mar 3, 2016 at 10:00 AM PST by: -
Samsung Reportedly Ends 3D TV Support, 2016 Display Lineup to Be 2D Only[teaser]Reports indicate that the manufacturer will no longer support 3D in its new display lineup. [/teaser] According to a report from CNET, none of Samsung's upcoming 2016 TVs for the US market will support 3D. Though some carryover models from 2015 will still include 3D capabilities, the manufacturer will not have any new models with 3D support this year. CNET cites an anonymous source from within Samsung for the confirmation. According to the source, 3D support has been abandoned in order for the company to focus more on smart TV features and SmartThings home automation integration. While still a desirable feature for displays among many home theater enthusiasts, 3D tech for TVs and Blu-ray players has seen its market share decrease in the US every year since 2012. Likewise, the recently launched Ultra HD Blu-ray disc platform does not even include 3D support in its spec. In addition to Samsung, other brands like VIZIO have already removed 3D capabilities from their lineup, and more companies are cutting back on support. Thankfully for 3D fans, LG remains committed to supporting 3D as a step-up feature in its higher-end models. About one third of the company's 2016 lineup will feature 3D, including the LG 65UH8500 65-Inch 4K Ultra HD Smart LED TV ($2,998), LG OLED65E6P 65-Inch 4K Ultra HD Flat Smart OLED TV ($7,000), and LG OLED65G6P 65-Inch 4K Ultra HD Flat Smart OLED TV ($8,000). Likewise, Sony is also releasing new 2016 TVs with 3D support, but only on their premium XBR-55X930D ($3,300), XBR-65X930D ($4,998), and XBR-75X940D models. Samsung's lack of 3D support for its 2016 TVs doesn't quite usher in the end of the technology, but it does mark a major blow for 3D's future in the home theater. The company's 2D-only 2016 lineup of Ultra HD TVs will feature 10-bit Quantum dot displays, HDR support, the Tizen Smart TV platform, and HDMI 2.0a for full compatibility with the recently released UBD-K8500 Ultra HD Blu-ray Player. Source: CNETPosted Wed Mar 2, 2016 at 03:15 PM PST by:
