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Sharp Partners with Digitalsmiths & TMS for Smart TV Platform[teaser]The companies have developed a new smart TV platform that offers advanced guide and recommendation features. [/teaser] Sharp has announced a partnership with Digitalsmiths (a subsidiary of TiVo Inc) and Tribune Media Services (TMS) to enhance the company's smart TV experience. The updated SmartCentral 3.0 platform is now available on several 2014 Sharp display models. "Sharp continually strives to improve the viewer experience, and the SmartCentral 3.0 platform offers integrated search, the best apps and mobile connectivity," said Vishnu Rao, director, product technology at Sharp. "Working with Digitalsmiths and TMS allows Sharp to bring the best content discovery experience to Sharp AQUOS viewers." Sharp's SmartCentral 3.0 uses DigitalSmiths' "Seamless Discovery Platform" in conjunction with TMS' "On Entertainment data," giving customers access to a cross-platform smart guide that details cable, satellite, and streaming content. Likewise, the advanced platform also offers superior media recommendations with info and images for cross-platform titles. "Building on our market leadership in the pay-TV market, Digitalsmiths is proud to grow our partners within the consumer electronics industry," said Ben Weinberger, co-founder of Digitalsmiths. "Content recommendations are becoming a must-have across multiple channels and platforms, and being able to work with Sharp to offer enhanced video discovery experiences in the United States, Canada and Mexico helps us expand to new markets and continue positive growth." "For decades, TMS data has enabled the evolution of entertainment guides with increasingly sophisticated datasets that now fuel advanced search and discovery of compelling content worldwide," said Rich Cusick, general manager of TMS. "Sharp's multiscreen experience leverages On Entertainment in a truly elegant way; we're confident that SmartCentral 3.0 users will love the functionality our data brings to life." The SmartCentral 3.0 platform is integrated into a slew of Sharp's 2014 Aquos television models, including the LC-60SQ15U, LC-70SQ15U, LC-60UQ17U, and LC-70UQ17U Q+ Series; the LC-60EQ10U and LC-70EQ10U Q Series; and the LC-70UD1U 4K series. Source: TiVoPosted Wed May 7, 2014 at 12:30 PM PDT by: -
Samsung Could Be Developing Galaxy Tab S[teaser]Rumors indicate that the new tablet line will feature WQXGA AMOLED displays. [/teaser] According to a report from SamMobile, Samsung is getting ready to launch a new series of tablets. The alleged Galaxy Tab S line could feature AMOLED screens and fingerprint scanners. The Samsung Galaxy Tab S is rumored to come in 8.4-inch and 10.5-inch sizes. Each model will use a 2560×1600 AMOLED display. Though Samsung frequently uses AMOLED technology in its smartphones, this would only be the second tablet from the company to feature that display type. AMOLED tech offers superior contrast, deeper black levels, and the potential for lower power consumption over traditional LCD panels. In addition, the upcoming tablet line is said to be powered by Octa-core Exynos 5 CPUs and 3GB of RAM running Android 4.4.2. An 8MP rear camera and a 2.1MP front camera are reportedly included as well. Finally, the device might also use a fingerprint scanner like the recently released Galaxy S5 smartphone. Though Samsung has yet to officially announce the Galaxy Tab S, supposed benchmarks and model numbers for the device have leaked. Stay tuned to High-Def Digest for more details as they become available. Source: SamMobile via CNETPosted Tue May 6, 2014 at 04:30 PM PDT by: -
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HDD Gear Deal Spotlight: Amazon Kindle Fire Mother's Day Sale![teaser]The online retailer is taking as much as $40 off of select Kindle Fire tablets just in time for Mother's Day! [/teaser] As part of a special Mother's Day promotion, Amazon is running a limited time sale on select Kindle Fire tablets. The models included in the sale are: Kindle Fire HD 7" Tablet - Currently $119 ($20 off its retail price of $139). Kindle Fire HDX 7" Tablet - Currently $199 ($30 off its retail price of $229). Kindle Fire HDX 8.9" Tablet - Currently $339 ($40 off its retail price of $379). As always, these deals will only be active for a limited time while supplies last, so act fast if you want to snag a Kindle Fire at these prices. Make sure to stay tuned to High-Def Digest for more deals and special promotions!Posted Mon May 5, 2014 at 06:00 PM PDT by: -
ESPN Set to Stream World Cup[teaser]The network will offer comprehensive digital coverage of the FIFA World Cup through cable, internet, smartphones, tablets, and streaming media players. [/teaser] ESPN has detailed plans for extensive multiplatform support for the upcoming 2014 FIFA World Cup. Cable subscribers will be able to watch all 65 matches live through WatchESPN, the company's internet streaming service. Likewise, the network will also be offering 24/7 news, analysis, commentary and other forms of social interactivity through their digital platforms. "All sports fans will come together for the World Cup in Brazil, and there’s no better time – and no greater opportunity – to connect fans globally across ESPN digital media than now," said John Kosner, executive vice president, ESPN Digital and Print Media. "By creating the most comprehensive experience that is live, personal and social, we will be at the top of our game in serving sports fans with anytime, anywhere, any device access to every match, goal, star player, news story and commentary. It will be a global effort befitting of the events in Brazil." Users will be able to stream all of the games and additional coverage through WatchESPN on computers, smartphones, tablets, gaming consoles and other connected devices like the Apple TV, Roku and Amazon Fire TV. To coincide with the ramped up digital coverage, ESPN will also be launching an updated version of its ESPN FC mobile app for Android and iOS devices. The new app will include special features specifically geared toward the World Cup, offering fans access to more exclusive content related to the big event. The 2014 FIFA World Cup Begins on June 12. Source: ESPNPosted Mon May 5, 2014 at 03:30 PM PDT by: -
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HDD Gear Deal Spotlight: Monitors and Home Audio[teaser]For a limited time, Amazon is offering discounts on select home theater items, including a soundbar, 1080p monitor, and Denon receiver! [/teaser] As part of the online retailer's ongoing electronics sales and promotions, Amazon is running limited time deals on several home theater items from Philips, ViewSonic, and Denon. The current lineup of deals includes discounts on: Philips Bluetooth Soundbar - Currently $80 (20 percent off its retail price of $100). Philips Fidelio X1/28 Premium Headphones - Currently $232 (23 percent off its retail price of $300). ViewSonic VA2746M 1080p 27-Inch Monitor - Currently $230 (31 percent off its retail price of $332). Denon AVR-E200 5.1 Channel AV Receiver - Currently $179 (36 percent off its retail price of $280). As always, 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 Fri May 2, 2014 at 03:30 PM PDT by: -
Best Buy to Offer Sony & Samsung Experiences[teaser]The electronics companies will be launching special in-store sections at select Best Buys geared toward promoting their Ultra HD products. [/teaser] Best Buy has announced an upcoming redesign to its home theater floor space, joining forces with Sony and Samsung to create new retail experiences. The revamped demo spaces will be dedicated to showing off the companies' latest innovations along with a key emphasis on 4K displays. Samsung's Entertainment Experience will launch in 500 Best Buy stores and will give customers a first hand look at their latest curved-screen Ultra HD televisions, including the UN55HU9000 and the UN65HU9000. Likewise, the floor space will also show off Samsung's Shape Wireless Audio Multiroom System. In addition, Samsung trained Best Buy employees will be on hand to answer questions about all of the highlighted products. "With our spectacular new Curved UHD TVs, Samsung is setting new standards in innovation and developing the ultimate immersive viewing experience for people passionate about entertainment," said Tim Baxter, President of Samsung Electronics America. "Consumer awareness and purchase intent for UHD technology is increasing steadily and the Samsung Entertainment Experience at Best Buy provides consumers with the opportunity to learn more and get an in-depth look at how this breathtaking new technology can change their viewing experience at home." Meanwhile, the Sony Experience will be rolling out to 350 Best Buy locations and will spotlight the company's latest 4K displays, emphasizing each model's unique features, upscaling capabilities, and proprietary technology like TRILUMINOS. In addition, Sony will also demo its 4K streaming media players, including the FMP-X1. Finally, the reconfigured retail space will also spotlight Sony's PS4 console and games. "The Sony Experience will give consumers a shopping experience unlike anything before," said Mike Mohan, Best Buy’s Chief Merchandising Officer. "Sony’s 4K Ultra HD televisions have to be seen to be believed. Our newly transformed home theater areas will, for the first time, allow customers to test, try and experience how all of the Sony products work together." The Sony and Samsung Experiences will begin launching in select Best Buy stores nationwide mid-May. Sources: Best Buy, Sony, SamsungPosted Thu May 1, 2014 at 07:30 PM PDT by: -
Redbox Instant Comes to Chromecast[teaser]The video streaming Android app now offers Chromecast support. [/teaser] Redox has released the newest version of its Android app, and the updated software includes support for streaming media to Google's Chromecast device. Users can now download the app from the Google Play store. Redbox Instant gives customers access to a growing library of streaming movies, allowing users to instantly watch videos on their mobile devices. With this new update, viewers will also be able to transmit Redbox videos from their phones or tablets straight to their big-screen TVs through the Chromecast. Users can purchase or rent individual titles or sign up for a subscription. Likewise, the app can also be used to reserve physical Blu-ray and DVD discs at various kiosk locations. Streaming purchases start at $9 and streaming rentals start at $3. A monthly subscription costs $8. Google's Chromecast is currently on sale for $35. Source: GooglePosted Thu May 1, 2014 at 08:30 AM PDT by: -
HDD Gear Deal Spotlight: One Day Kindle Fire HD & Samsung Tablet Sale[teaser]For today only, Amazon is offering up to 36 percent off select HD tablets! [/teaser] As part of the online retailer's ongoing electronics sales and promotions, Amazon is running limited time deals on two Samsung tablets and a refurbished Kindle Fire. Certified Refurbished Kindle Fire HD 7-inch Tablet - Currently $89 (25 percent off its retail price of $119). Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 - Currently $350 (36 percent off its retail price of $550). Samsung Galaxy Note 8.0 - Currently $280 (30 percent off its retail price of $400). These deals will only be active until 12 am PST time while supplies last. Make sure to stay tuned to High-Def Digest for more sales and special promotions!Posted Wed Apr 30, 2014 at 03:00 PM PDT by: -
Hulu Details Growth, New Content, and Mobile Access[teaser]The streaming media service is experiencing steady growth in subscribers and original content, and soon plans to offer free mobile playback. [/teaser] At a special Hulu Upfront event in New York, Hulu announced several new developments, including subscription stats, show renewals, and upcoming mobile app updates. According to the company, Hulu Plus has now surpassed 6 million total subscribers. The service also touted its growing library of original shows, and announced a second season pick up for 'Deadbeat,' one of Hulu's most watched series. Likewise, premiere dates were revealed for returning shows like 'The Awesomes,' 'Quick Draw' and 'East Los High.' Meanwhile, Hulu also detailed plans to expand its mobile support and promised to offer a select collection of ad-supported shows for free through their mobile app. Currently, free Hulu streaming is only available on desktop PCs. The ad-supported mobile content is expected to launch this summer. Furthermore, the company will also be releasing a new version of its iPhone app. Hulu Plus currently costs $7.99 per month. The streaming media service is available on a variety of smart TV platforms and devices, including the Amazon Fire TV, Roku 3, Apple TV and Chromecast. Source: HuluPosted Wed Apr 30, 2014 at 01:00 PM PDT by: -
Acer Unveils Aspire Switch 10 Tablet[teaser]The new 10.1-inch tablet can convert to four different modes of usage. [/teaser] Acer has detailed its latest tablet, the versatile Aspire Switch 10. The tablet/notebook hybrid can be configured into four different modes: notebook, pad, display, and tent. "The market is experiencing explosive growth in the 2-in-1 category and Acer has been a leading innovator," said Peter Han, Vice President of Worldwide OEM Marketing, Microsoft. "We are looking forward to partnering with Acer on the launch of their new Acer Aspire Switch which will provide customers with a great Windows 8.1 experience for both touch and keyboard." The device features a 10.1-inch 1366 x 768 IPS display powered by an Intel Atom Bay Trail T quad-core processor and 2GB of RAM running Windows 8.1 with Microsoft Office Home & Student 2013 included. In addition, the tablet uses Acer LumiFlex technology for better screen visibility in the sunlight. Likewise, the hybrid tablet can be configured into four different modes using a magnetic detachable Acer Snap Hinge design and latch-free keyboard docking. In notebook mode, the Aspire Switch becomes a fully functioning laptop complete with a keyboard and touchpad. In pad mode, the device becomes a traditional tablet. Meanwhile, display mode switches the screen to show content like photos and presentations. Finally, tent mode is ideal for watching movies and using the tablet in compact spaces like an airplane. The Acer Aspire Switch 10 will be available in late May for a suggested retail price starting at $380. Source: AcerPosted Tue Apr 29, 2014 at 06:00 PM PDT by:
