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VIZIO Expands App Support to the Big Screen with SmartCast TV Update for P-Series & M-Series Ultra HD Displays[teaser]The new update lets users access apps directly from their displays.[/teaser] VIZIO has announced the launch of its new SmartCast TV update. The upgraded user experience offers two ways for customers to control streaming content, adding support for on-screen navigation with the new VIZIO SmartCast remote. Previously, users could only access apps from a separate mobile device or tablet remote. "The introduction of VIZIO SmartCast TV is all about giving consumers additional options when it comes to accessing their favorite content," said Matt McRae, Chief Technology Officer ,VIZIO. "We focused on developing a best-in-class smart platform for all users; from traditional TV fans who enjoy a dedicated remote control, to digital natives and second screen users who love using their mobile devices to search and control their viewing experience. 2017 is all about expanding SmartCast to give users multiple ways to stream the entertainment they love, the way they want it." With the SmartCast TV update, users can now access settings and a new home screen with content recommendations and popular apps like Amazon Video, Crackle, Hulu, iHeartRadio, Netflix, Pluto TV, Vudu, and XUMO directly on their displays. In addition, the "Discover" section aggregates trending and popular content from multiple sources all in one place, letting customers browse titles without having to switch between multiple apps. Likewise, users can also continue to use their mobile devices to access and control content and settings as well. The SmartCast TV upgrade is now rolling out to 2017 VIZIO SmartCast P-Series and M-Series Ultra HD Displays through an automatic internet update. The upgrade will also expand to additional lines like the 2017 VIZIO SmartCast E-Series Ultra HD Displays later this summer. To access the SmartCast TV experience some users with previously purchased eligible displays might need the new VIZIO SmartCast remote. For a limited time and while supplies last, owners of eligible models can receive the new VIZIO SmartCast remote either free or for a nominal fee by visiting vizio.com/remote (some conditions apply). Source: VIZIOPosted Wed Aug 2, 2017 at 11:45 AM PDT by: -
Klipsch Announces New Reference Dolby Atmos Speakers[teaser]Two new speaker models with Dolby Atmos support have been revealed.[/teaser] Klipsch has announced an expansion of its Dolby Atmos speaker lineup. The new Reference Dolby Atmos enabled home theater speaker collection includes the R-14SA elevation speaker and the R-26FA floorstanding speaker. "As demand for Dolby Atmos technology has grown, we are excited to offer a wider range of options that deliver this immersive and emotive sound experience with all the power, detail and emotion that Klipsch is known for," stated Rob Standley, vice president and general manager, professional and component speaker solutions at Klipsch. The R-14SA is a Dolby Atmos add-on module that is designed to sit on top of existing floorstanding/bookshelf speakers, adding Dolby Atmos audio capabilities. The module's upfiring driver bounces sound off of the ceiling in order to simulate overhead audio. Meanwhile, the R-26FA is a full-fledged floorstanding speaker model with traditional drivers and an integrated elevation channel for upfiring sound. Here's a rundown of key specs and features for each model per Klipsch: R-14SA Dolby Atmos Enabled Elevation Speaker ($399 per pair) -Adds Dolby Atmos® experience to any floorstanding/bookshelf speaker-Can be used as surround speaker-3/4" Linear Travel Suspension Aluminum Tweeter-4" Spun Copper IMG Cone Woofers-90x90 Hybrid Tractrix Horn-MDF Cabinet with Brushed Polymer Veneer-Strong, Flexible Removable Grille-Dimensions: 7.25” x 6” x 11.25" R-26FA Dolby Atmos® Floorstanding Speaker ($599 each) -Built-in Elevation Channel for Dolby Atmos®-1" Aluminum Diaphragm Compression Tweeter-Dual 6.5" Copper Spun Magnetically Shielded IMG Woofers-90x90 Square Tractrix Horn-Front-Firing Port-Strong, Flexible Removable Grille-Dimensions: 39” x 7.8” x 16.25” The R-14SA elevation speaker and the R-26FA floorstanding speaker now join the company's previously released RP-140SA Dolby Atmos Add-on Modules and RP-280FA Towers. Source: KlipschPosted Tue Aug 1, 2017 at 11:00 AM PDT by: -
IMAX Set to Focus Less on 3D Movies in Favor of More 2D Releases[teaser]The company is shifting its focus toward 2D films.[/teaser] According to a report from The Wrap, IMAX is planning to reduce the number of 3D releases it shows in favor of exhibiting more 2D films in North America. The news comes in the wake of recent company layoffs and the continued success of Christopher Nolan's Dunkirk in 2D IMAX. IMAX Entertainment CEO Greg Foster revealed the new strategy during a conference call last week, hoping to use the push toward 2D releases as a means to re-energize the business. The company believes that viewers are starting to show a strong preference for 2D over 3D, and used the recent box office success of Dunkirk as an example. The film was shot in 2D using IMAX cameras and opened to around $50 million in a 2D- only release with about a quarter of that gross coming from IMAX showings. After such impressive numbers, IMAX is now looking to exhibit more Hollywood films in 2D while reducing the number of 3D titles it plays. This includes the upcoming release of Blade Runner 2049, which will be shown exclusively in 2D at IMAX theaters this October. Likewise, the company is also set to shorten the exhibition period for some of the films it shows as a means to keep things fresh and stimulate revenue, with some new movies likely to play for only one week in IMAX theaters. But while IMAX might be leaving 3D behind in its large-screen theatrical exhibitions, the company recently launched new IMAX VR Centers in New York and LA, offering immersive Virtual Reality experiences with room-tracking technology, single-player and head-to-head multiplayer competitions, advanced VR headset technology, and control devices with lifelike haptic feedback. Sources: The Wrap, The Hollywood ReporterPosted Mon Jul 31, 2017 at 02:10 PM PDT by: -
This Week In Gear: Klipsch Forte III Speaker, Standalone Vive VR Headset, LG OLED Production, and More[teaser]We've compiled the latest gear news, including new products from Klipsch, HTC, and more.[/teaser] From product announcements and streaming app updates to general industry news and recent gear trends, keeping up with the latest tech news can be a daunting task. With that in mind, we're here to offer you a roundup of some of the latest gear and consumer electronics news that you may have missed. For this edition, we're covering the release of the Klipsch Forte III speaker, HTC's new standalone Vive VR headset, LG's upcoming investment in OLED production, an updated USB spec, and the arrival of BBC America on Roku devices. So, without further ado, here's a rundown of some of the latest gear and tech news: Klipsch Releases Forte III Speaker Klipsch has announced the release of its new Forte III loudspeaker. The unit is part of the Klipsch Heritage series and is an updated version of the original Forte which was first introduced in 1985 but has been out of production since 1996. The Forte III features a three-way design with a 12" woofer and horn-loaded midrange and tweeter. New titanium compression drivers are integrated to offer a smooth and powerful response while a new midrange horn incorporates a modified Tractrix design with patented Mumps technology. In addition, the speaker uses a 15" rear-mounted passive radiator. Each Forte III measures 13" deep and is grain-matched using wood veneer panels harvested from the same timber. Klipsch's Forte III is now available for an MSRP of $1,800 in four standard finish options -- American Walnut, Natural Cherry, Black Ash, and Distressed Oak. A limited production run of 70 pairs of Forte III’s are also available in two unique finishes -- California Black Walnut with a lambswool grille cloth (MSRP $2,300), and Matte Black with a silver luster grille cloth (MSRP $2,000). Source: Klipsch LG Set to Invest Billions in OLED Production According to a report from Yon Hap News Agency, LG is planning to invest 7.8 trillion won (about $6.9 billion) to build more production facilities for OLED panels. The increase in production capabilities is being pursued as a means to meet rising demand for OLED displays in TVs and mobile devices. The investment is set to commence in the third quarter of 2017 and will continue through the second quarter of 2019. 2.8 trillion won (about $2.5 billion) of the investment is expected to be used on the 10.5-generation OLED panel production line for large size screens. Meanwhile, 5 trillion won (about $4.5 billion) will be used for mid-sized Plastic and flexible OLED products. LG Display currently manufacturers OLED panels for various devices, including LG's own line of OLED Ultra HD TVs and Sony's new XBR65A1E Bravia OLED Ultra HD TV. One of LG's flagship OLED TVs, the 65E7P OLED Ultra HD TV, recently received top honors in all three categories at the 2017 CE Week TV Shootout. Sources: Yon Hap News Agency via Engadget HTC Reveals First Standalone Vive VR Headset HTC has announced its first standalone Virtual Reality headset for the Chinese market. In the US, the company currently only offers a Vive headset model that requires a separate PC to run, but this new version uses its own internal hardware to operate without the need to connect to a computer or smartphone. Full details and specs are unknown at this time, but the headset uses a Snapdragon 835 processor and runs on the Viveport platform. Likewise, the device will include integrated motion-tracking technology. Pricing and a release date have not been announced yet, but this specific model will be exclusive to the Chinese market. Meanwhile, HTC is also working on a standalone VR headset model for the US using the Google Daydream virtual reality platform and new headset tracking technology called WorldSense. Sources: HTC, Engadget, Mashable Updated USB 3.2 Spec Unveiled The USB 3.0 Promoter Group has announced the upcoming launch of the USB 3.2 specification. The spec will be an incremental update that defines multi-lane operation for new USB 3.2 hosts and devices, allowing for up to two lanes of 5 Gbps or two lanes of 10 Gbps operation. "With increased performance and seamless compatibility, the new USB 3.2 specification brings even more speed and bandwidth benefits to new USB 3.2 devices, while remaining compatible with USB 3.0 and earlier devices," said Roanne Sones, General Manager, Strategy and Ecosystem for Windows and Devices, Microsoft. "We're excited to work with our partners in the USB 3.0 Promoter Group to help showcase these benefits to users around the world." The 3.2 spec is poised to offer double the performance speed across existing cables, enabling a USB 3.2 host connected to a USB 3.2 storage device to provide over 2 GB/sec data transfer speed over an existing USB Type-C cable that is certified for SuperSpeed USB 10 Gbps. Here's a rundown of key features for the spec: - Two-lane operation using existing USB Type-C™ cables- Continued use of existing SuperSpeed USB physical layer data rates and encoding techniques- Minor update to hub specification to address increased performance and assure seamless transitions between single and two-lane operation The USB 3.2 spec is currently undergoing a final draft review with a planned release set for September 2017. Source: USB 3.0 Promoter Group via Business Wire Roku Devices Add BBC America Streaming Support Roku has announced the addition of BBC America to its lineup of streaming channels on Roku players and Roku TV models in the US. With the BBC America Channel, Roku users who subscribe to BBC America through a participating cable, satellite, or telco provider will have access to full episodes of shows like Orphan Black, Doctor Who, Top Gear, Broadchurch, Torchwood, and Prey. Likewise, the channel also offers video extras and sneak peeks at upcoming series. New in-season episodes are typically added the day after they are broadcast on TV. Roku users can now find the BBC America Channel in the "Movies & TV" category of the Channel Store. Source: RokuPosted Fri Jul 28, 2017 at 10:00 PM PDT by: -
Coming Soon to Streaming: 'Star Trek: Discovery,' 'Alias Grace,' TGIF on Hulu, and More[teaser]A new trailer for Star Trek: Discovery and a new show from Matt Groening are among the latest streaming updates.[/teaser] Netflix and CBS have released new trailers, date announcements, and other info for several of their upcoming shows and movies, including Star Trek: Discovery, Message from the King, Alias Grace, Disenchantment, and Castlevania. In addition, Hulu has announced the upcoming arrival of classic TGIF shows, and TEN: The Enthusiast Network has revealed a premiere date for Super Street Network's Modified Presented by Honda. Check out a full rundown of the latest streaming news and trailers below: Star Trek: Discovery (CBS All Access, September 24) - Star Trek, one of the most iconic and influential global television franchises, returns 50 years after it first premiered, with Star Trek: Discovery. The series will feature a new ship, new characters and new missions, while embracing the same ideology and hope for the future that inspired a generation of dreamers and doers. Message from the King (Netflix, August 4) - On a relentless quest to avenge his sister's murder, a man from Cape Town infiltrates a sprawling network of lowlifes and elites in Los Angeles. Stars Chadwick Boseman, Luke Evans, and Teresa Palmer. Alias Grace (Netflix, November 3) - The story of Alias Grace follows Grace Marks, a poor, young Irish immigrant and domestic servant in Upper Canada who, along with stable hand James McDermott, was convicted of the brutal murders of their employer, Thomas Kinnear, and his housekeeper, Nancy Montgomery, in 1843. James was hanged while Grace was sentenced to life imprisonment. Grace became one of the most enigmatic and notorious women of 1840s Canada for her supposed role in the sensational double murder, and was eventually exonerated after 30 years in jail. Her conviction was controversial, and sparked much debate about whether Grace was actually involved in the murder, or merely an unwitting accessory. Based on Margaret Atwood's award-winning novel. Meanwhile, Netflix has also announced a new adult animated comedy fantasy series titled Disenchantment from Matt Groening, the creator of The Simpsons. In Disenchantment, viewers will be whisked away to the crumbling medieval kingdom of Dreamland, where they will follow the misadventures of hard-drinking young princess Bean, her feisty elf companion Elfo, and her personal demon Luci. Along the way, the oddball trio will encounter ogres, sprites, harpies, imps, trolls, walruses, and lots of human fools. Netflix has ordered 20 episodes of the show, and the series is set to premiere ten episodes at a time starting in 2018. The voice cast includes Abbi Jacobson, Nat Faxon, Eric Andre, John DiMaggio, Billy West, Maurice LaMarche, Tress MacNeille, David Herman, Matt Berry, Jeny Batten, Rich Fulcher, Noel Fielding, and Lucy Montgomery. "Matt Groening's brilliant work has resonated with generations around the world and we couldn't be happier to work with him on Disenchantment," said Cindy Holland, Vice President, Original Content for Netflix. "The series will bear his trademark animation style and biting wit, and we think it's a perfect fit for our many Netflix animation fans." In addition, Netflix is prepping a second season of its animated series Castlevania. The four episode first season of the show is now available to stream. Season two is set to include a total of eight episodes. Inspired by the classic video game series from Japan’s Konami, Castlevania is an animated project written by best-selling author and comic book legend Warren Ellis. Castlevania is a dark medieval fantasy that follows the last surviving member of the disgraced Belmont clan, trying to save Eastern Europe from extinction at the hand of Vlad Dracula Tepes himself. The cast features the voice talents of Graham McTavish as Dracula, Richard Armitage as Trevor Belmont, James Callis as Alucard, Emily Swallow as Lisa, Matt Frewer as The Bishop, Tony Amendola as The Elder, and Alejandra Reynoso as Sypha Belnades. Hulu has announced a new deal with Warner Bros. Domestic Television Distribution, giving the service the exclusive SVOD streaming rights to over 800 episodes from TGIF -- the popular Friday night sitcom lineup that aired in the 1990s. The agreement includes all episodes of Full House, Family Matters, Step by Step, Perfect Strangers, and Hangin’ with Mr. Cooper. The shows will be added to the Hulu library on Friday, September 29th. "With this acquisition, Hulu is making available to their subscribers one of the most popular comedy blocks of programming ever," said Ken Werner, President, Warner Bros. Domestic Television Distribution. "These hit family comedies have entertained viewers for decades and will now be available on SVOD." Finally, TEN: The Enthusiast Network and Honda have announced plans to launch Super Street Network's Modified on the Motor Trend OnDemand streaming platform. The seven episode show is set to premiere on August 9. In the series, hosts and pro drivers Matt Powers and Geoff Stoneback will travel to tuner hotbeds across the country to discover how tuning perfection differs from city to city and to find the hottest modified cars in each one! Their search will take them to the pits at local motorsports events, garages of legendary tuners and builders, and some of the most influential and trendsetting car clubs. The hosts will drive away from their adventures with their picks for "hottest car" and face off against each other before asking the 16 million SUPER STREET followers to vote for and share their favorite car on social media. Each episode will also feature a custom-build segment, transforming a stock 2017 Honda Civic Hatchback any Honda enthusiast would be proud to drive. The series will culminate in the World's Greatest Honda Drag Race with the winner receiving the keys to the "Modified" Project Civic. Motor Trend OnDemand is currently available on iOS, Android, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, Xbox, Roku and MotorTrendOnDemand.com. Likewise, the service is also available as a Channel via Amazon Channels. - A current Netflix subscription starts at $10 for HD streaming and $12 for Ultra HD streaming. - A current CBS All Access subscription costs $5.99 per month with reduced commercials or $9.99 per month for a commercial-free plan. - A current Hulu subscription starts at $8 per month with commercials. In addition, ad-free playback is available for $12 per month. Sources: Netflix (YouTube), Netflix, Star Trek (YouTube), Hulu, Motor Trend OnDemandPosted Fri Jul 28, 2017 at 06:25 PM PDT by: -
Marantz Releases SR5012 & SR6012 Receivers with Dolby Atmos & DTS:X[teaser]Two new Network AV receivers have been detailed.[/teaser] Marantz has announced the launch of its latest AV components. The new collection includes the SR5012 & SR6012 AV Receivers. "At Marantz, we strive to create products that boast exceptional audio quality and subtle, yet eye-catching design. Our new line of 'full-size' AV Receivers allows us to provide a wider range of options for those looking to create a premium home theater experience," said Joel Sietsema, senior vice president, brand management at Sound United. "The SR5012 and SR6012 aim to create a one-of-kind immersive sound experience that rivals those found in theaters today." The SR5012 is a 7.2 Channel AV receiver with 100 watts per Channel (8ohms, 20 Hz20 kHz, 0.08% THD). Meanwhile, the SR6012 is a 9.2 Channel AV receiver with 110 W per Channel (8 ohm, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 0.08%, 2Ch drive). Both units include support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X immersive audio formats. In addition, the SR6012 offers 11.2 channel processing, allowing for up to a 7.1.4 speaker configuration with an external 2-channel amplifier. Multiroom music playback via HEOS integration and 4K/60 Hz full-rate pass-through with 4:4:4 color resolution, HDR, BT.2020, Dolby Vision, and Hybrid Log Gamma (via future firmware update) are provided as well. Here's a full rundown of key specs and features per Marantz: SR5012 AV Receiver with HEOS ($999) -7.2 channel AV Receiver with 100 watts per channel (8ohms, 20Hz~20 kHz, 0.08% THD)-8 HDMI inputs (incl. 1 front) with full HDCP 2.2 support; 2 HDMI out-4K/60 Hz full-rate pass-through, 4:4:4 color resolution, HDR, BT.2020 and Dolby Vision, plus Hybrid Log Gamma (HLG) via future firmware update-Analog to HDMI conversion and SD/HD to HD/4K Upscaling-Dolby Atmos (up to 5.1.2) and DTS:X™-Audyssey MultEQ XT, Dynamic Volume and Dynamic EQ-Compatible with Audyssey MultEQ Editor App-Built-in Wi-Fi with 2.4GHz/5GHz dual band support; built-in Bluetooth-Built-in HEOS Wireless Multi-Room Audio Technology-AirPlay, Bluetooth, Internet Radio, Spotify Connect, Pandora, SiriusXM, Napster, Amazon Music, TIDAL, Deezer and more-DSD (2.8/5.6MHz), FLAC, ALAC and WAV support-Color-coded speaker terminals, Setup Assistant, Marantz 2016 AVR Remote App-Intelligent ECO mode with off/on/auto setting-Advanced connectivity and control options; 7.1ch External Inputs, 7.1ch Pre-out, IP Control and RS232C Port -isf calibration ready Additional features for SR6012 AV Receiver with HEOS ($1,499) -9-channel built-in amplifier, supporting 5.1.4 or 7.1.2 3D surround sound-110W (8ohm, 20Hz-20kHz,THD:0.08%) for each channel-11.2 channel processing and preouts-Aluminium front panel with trapdoor-Extruded aluminium heatsink--Dual main zone HDMI output and 2nd Zone HDMI monitor outputeARC (Enhanced Audio Return channel; via future firmware update) to allow Dolby Atmos/DTS:X from TV apps-5 audio inputs (SR5012 has 4), plus Phono input, with gold-plated inputs and speaker terminals-HEOS audio distribution not limited to HEOS music sources but also all connected AVR sources including HDMI, coaxial and optical audio inputs-Hybrid PLL Clock Jitter Reducer for the most accurate audio reproduction-4K full-rate up-scaling-DSD playback capability (via HDMI)-Digital in (PCM) to Zone 2 preout with HDMI Source-Advanced custom installation features including Crestron Connected compatibility Source: MarantzPosted Fri Jul 28, 2017 at 11:30 AM PDT by: -
Emotiva Set to Demo RMC-1 AV Processor with 7.4.4 Dolby Atmos & DTS:X Support at CEDIA[teaser]The new AV processor offers advanced immersive audio support.[/teaser] Emotiva has announced plans to demo its upcoming RMC-1 AV Processor at CEDIA 2017. The show will be held in San Diego from September 5-9. "The RMC-1 is, quite simply, the ultimate expression of our design expertise," said Dan Laufman, President and Founder, Emotiva Audio Corp. "From the outset, this project was a mission to build the best AV processor in our company’s history. Of course, we're talking about Emotiva, so the price is drastically lower than what you would expect for such an extraordinary product." The RMC-1 is a 16 channel AV Processor with an all-analog preamplifier section and precision 32-bit AD/DA conversion. Likewise, the unit includes an advanced 4K UHD video management system with eight HDMI inputs and dual HDMI outputs supporting 2.0b with HDCP 2.2 for 4K UHD HDR10 sources and equipment. In addition, the device is capable of supporting 7.3.6 Dolby Atmos or DTS:X immersive audio systems with a decoded audio signal for each channel that is processed by a separate high performance AKM Verita 32-bit DAC. At CEDIA, the company plans to demonstrate the processor as part of a 7.4.4 speaker setup. Other features also include the Dirac Live 13.3 automatic room correction system, native audio decoding of single- and double-rate DSD digital audio signals through HDMI or USB sources, a Reference Stereo mode for 2 channel playback, 11-band parametric equalization on every channel, a 64 x 256 front panel OLED display, and support for Auro 3D via an optional license. The RMC-1 is set to carry an MSRP of $4,999. Sources: AVS Forum, TWICE, Emotiva via Sohmer AssociatesPosted Wed Jul 26, 2017 at 02:15 PM PDT by: -
HD Gear News Roundup: Samsung Cinema Screen, LG Smartphones, and More[teaser]We've compiled the latest gear news, including the launch of Samsung's LED theater screen, new smartphones from LG, and more.[/teaser] From product announcements and streaming app updates to general industry news and recent gear trends, keeping up with the latest tech news can be a daunting task. With that in mind, we're here to offer you a roundup of some of the latest gear and consumer electronics news that you may have missed. For this edition, we're covering the launch of Samsung's LED Cinema Screen for movie theaters, LG's newest smartphone models, and the arrival of Hulu live streaming on Amazon Fire TV products. So, without further ado, here's a rundown of some of the latest gear and tech news: Samsung Installs First Cinema LED Display As previously reported, Samsung has developed the world's first commercial Cinema HDR LED Screen for movie theaters, and now the company has installed its first display at the Lotte Cinema World Tower in Korea. "Through sharper and more realistic colors, complementary audio and an elevated presentation, our Cinema LED Screen makes viewers feel as if they are part of the picture," said HS Kim, President of Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics. "We are excited to partner with Lotte Cinema to bring this technology to theater-goers, and look forward to continuing to shape the cinema of the future." Designed for a variety of movie theater configurations as an alternative to digital projector systems, the Cinema Screen measures 33.8ft wide and offers a 4K (4,096 x 2,160) resolution. The screen uses direct-lit LED technology and is capable of High Dynamic Range (HDR) at a peak brightness level nearly 10 times greater than standard cinema projectors (146fL versus 14fL). Likewise, the display is said to provide improved uniformity without optical distortion or interference, along with a nearly infinity:1 contrast ratio and highly accurate color, exceeding the DCI specifications. In addition, Samsung has paired the new display at the Lotte Cinema with audio tech developed by JBL by Harman, including powerful speakers bordering the screen, proprietary audio processing, and JBL's Sculpted Surround system. Source: Samsung LG Announces Q6 and Q8 Smartphones LG has announced the latest additions to its mobile lineup. The new mid-range Q6 and Q8 smartphones offer many of the same features found on the company's more expensive flagship models. "The LG Q6 is a blend of premium features, great performance and attractive pricing, a combination that is extremely important to us as we look at the way consumers are using smartphones around the world," said Juno Cho, president of LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company. "The Q series is our way of getting the superb experiences with the essence of the LG’s premium line-ups to more consumers’ hands and pockets." The Q6 features a 5.5-inch FHD+ FullVision display with an 18:9 aspect ratio. Variants will include the Q6+, Q6 and Q6α. Meanwhile, the Q8 features a 5.2-inch QHD IPS Quantum Display with a resolution of 2560 x 1440, along with a customizable always-on Second Screen on top of the main display. Here's a rundown of key specs for each series: LG Q6 Chipset: Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 435 Mobile PlatformDisplay: 5.5-inch 18:9 FHD+ FullVision Display (2160 x 1080 / 442ppi)Memory: Q6+: 4GB RAM / 64GB ROM, Q6: 3GB RAM / 32GB ROM, Q6α: 2GB RAM / 16GB ROM Camera: Rear 13MP Standard Angle / Front 5MP Wide AngleBattery: 3,000mAh (embedded)Operating System: Android 7.1.1 NougatSize: 142.5 x 69.3 x 8.1mmWeight: 149gNetwork: LTE / 3G / 2GConnectivity: Wi-Fi 802.11 b, g, n / Bluetooth 4.2 / NFC / USB Type-B 2.0Colors: Q6+: Astro Black / Ice Platinum / Marine Blue, Q6: Astro Black / Ice Platinum / Mystic White / Terra Gold, Q6α: Astro Black / Ice Platinum / Terra Gold LG Q8 Chipset: Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 820 Mobile PlatformDisplay: Main 5.2-inch QHD IPS Quantum Display (2560 x 1440 / 570ppi), Secondary IPS Quantum Display (160 x 1040 / 570ppi) Memory: 4GB LPDDR4 RAM / 32GB UFS ROM / microSD (up to 2TB)Camera: Front: 5MP Wide (F1.9 / 120°), Rear Dual: 8MP Wide (F2.4 / 135°) / 16MP Standard (F1.8 / 78°) Battery: 3,000mAh (embedded)Operating System: Android 7.0 NougatSize: 148.9 x 71.9 x 7.9mmWeight: 146gNetwork: LTE / 3G / 2GConnectivity: Wi-Fi 802.11 a, b, g, n, ac / Bluetooth 4.2 BLE / NFC / USB Type-CColor: Urban TitanOthers: Water and Dust Resistant (IP67) / Steady Record 2.0 / High AOP Mic / Second Screen / 32-bit Hi-Fi Quad DAC / Fingerprint Sensor / Qualcomm Quick Charge™ 3.0 /Hi-Fi Video Recording / HD Audio Recorder / Studio Mode / The LG Q6 will launch in Asia next month and will then expand to Europe, Latin America, and North America. The LG Q8 will first launch in key European markets this week and then expand to Asia next month. Sources: LG 1, LG 2 Amazon Fire TV Adds Hulu Live Streaming Service Hulu has announced the expansion of its new Hulu interface and Hulu Live TV Beta to the Amazon Fire TV and Fire TV Stick. The live service previously launched on the Apple TV, Xbox One, iOS and Android mobile devices, and Chromecast in May. The Hulu with Live TV beta costs $40 per month and combines a live and on demand TV service with Hulu's standard streaming collection. The platform includes access to content from ABC, CBS, FOX and NBC, with local live broadcast affiliate programming immediately available in many markets; live sporting events from top pro and college leagues on channels like CBS Sports, ESPN, Fox Sports, NBC Sports and TNT; regional sports networks in many markets; news channels like CNN, CNBC, Fox News, Fox Business and MSNBC; lifestyle programming from Bravo, E!, Food Network, HGTV and Travel Channel; additional networks like A&E, Cartoon Network/Adult Swim, Disney Channel, Freeform, FX, HISTORY, Lifetime, National Geographic, TBS, USA Network, Viceland, and more; and Hulu's existing $8 premium streaming plan with limited commercials and more than 3500 TV and film titles. Likewise, users can also subscribe to add-on packages for HBO, Cinemax, and Showtime. In addition, Fire TV and Fire TV Stick users also now have access to the standard Hulu platform's updated interface and personalization features. Source: HuluPosted Mon Jul 24, 2017 at 09:30 PM PDT by: -
TV Static Comes From a Surprising Source... The Big Bang[teaser]Hate TV static? Blame the Big Bang.[/teaser] Remember all that crinkling static you used to see on old TVs when the cable or antenna reception was bad? Well, despite looking like little more than flashing noise, some of those snowy pixels actually originated from a genuinely amazing source... the very creation of the universe itself. That's right, about one percent of TV static comes from the light of the Big Bang. Seriously. Kinda makes you feel bad about smacking the set every time the cable went out, doesn't it? Check out the video below from the Science Channel for a full explanation. The discovery was first made in 1964 when astronomers tried to listen to radio signals from space but kept picking up an unwanted background hum. At first, the researchers thought the cause might be pigeon droppings in their receiver so they swept the equipment and tried again. Alas, the noise was still there. Later, a physicist at Princeton proposed that the sound they were hearing might not actually be bird droppings at all. Instead, it could be something a tad more interesting: the afterglow of the fireball created during the Big Bang. In essence, part of the static we see and hear in TVs comes from the cosmic microwave background, a type of electromagnetic radiation formed during the early days of the universe that has been moving through space ever since. So, basically, light has been traveling for billions of years across countless solar systems and vast oceans of stars to screw up your TV reception right before the game winning touchdown. Thankfully, modern digital displays, antennas, and cable receivers don't really have to deal with static anymore, but it might be worth busting out that old tube TV again just to catch a small peek back into the creation of the universe. Source: Science Channel via Slash GearPosted Mon Jul 24, 2017 at 06:20 PM PDT by: -
Streaming News Roundup: 'Bright,' 'Voltron,' and More[teaser]New trailers for David Ayer's Bright and DreamWorks' Voltron Legendary Defenders are among the latest streaming updates.[/teaser] Netflix and Amazon have released new trailers, date announcements, and other info for several of their upcoming shows and movies, including Bright, Voltron Legendary Defenders, Homecoming, and Ordeal By Innocence. In addition, Hulu has announced an expanded lineup of content from 20th Century Fox, iTunes is offering digital bonus features for Mad Men, and TEN: The Enthusiast Network has revealed its livestream schedule for the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. Check out a full rundown of the latest streaming news and trailers below: Voltron Legendary Defender: Season Three (Netflix, August 4) - Season 3 picks up in the wake of Zarkon's defeat and Shiro’s disappearance, as the paladins struggle to move forward with no one able to pilot the black lion or the ability to form Voltron. The team must quickly devise a plan as the ascension of Prince Lotor and his generals pulls the team into a perilous game of cat-and-mouse that tests their unity and abilities more than ever before. Bright (Netflix, December 22) - Set in an alternate present-day where humans, orcs, elves and fairies have been coexisting since the beginning of time, this action-thriller directed by David Ayer (Suicide Squad, End of Watch, writer of Training Day) follows two cops from very different backgrounds. Ward, a human (Will Smith), and Jakoby, an orc (Joel Edgerton), embark on a routine night patrol that will alter the future of their world as they know it. Battling both their own personal differences as well as an onslaught of enemies, they must work together to protect a young female elf and a thought-to-be-forgotten relic, which in the wrong hands could destroy everything. Meanwhile, Amazon has announced a new a multi-show deal with Agatha Christie Limited for a series of Amazon Originals adapted from Christie works. The first series, Ordeal By Innocence, started production earlier this month. In the show, old wounds are reopened for the Argyll family when a man suddenly turns up and claims that the black sheep of the family, Jack Argyll, could not have murdered its tyrannical matriarch—for which he was accused just one year earlier. The family must come to terms with Jack’s innocence and with the fact that one of them may be the real murderer. "We are delighted to be working with Amazon in the TV space. They have obviously played a massive part in our book business over the past few years, and it is exciting to move with them onto Prime Video in the U.S.," said James Prichard, Chairman and CEO of Agatha Christie Limited. According to a report from Deadline, Amazon has also picked up a new show titled Homecoming for a two season straight-to-series order. The upcoming half-hour drama comes from director and executive producer Sam Esmail (Mr. Robot) and is set to star Julia Roberts. Homecoming is based on the fictional podcast of the same name created by Eli Horowitz and Micah Bloomberg. The podcast focuses on a caseworker at an experimental facility, her ambitious supervisor, and a soldier eager to rejoin civilian life. A release date has not been announced yet. Hulu has announced a new deal with 20th Century Fox Television Distribution to add nearly 3,000 episodes of Fox content to the platform's streaming library. The deal includes all episodes of shows like How I Met Your Mother, Raising Hope, The Bernie Mac Show, Better Off Ted, Reba, Life in Pieces, NYPD Blue, Bones, Glee, Burn Notice, White Collar, The Practice, M*A*S*H, The Mary Tyler Moore Show, St. Elsewhere, Hill Street Blues, The Bob Newhart Show, Don’t Trust the B—in Apartment 23,The Grinder, Blue Collar, Saving Grace, Lie To Me, Graceland, Dollhouse, Wilfred, The Glades, and more. In addition, Hulu and Fox also recently announced an agreement to bring animated series like Bob’s Burgers, American Dad!, Futurama, and The Cleveland Show to the streaming service as well. In celebration of the show's 10th Anniversary, Lionsgate has announced the addition of over 16 hours of Bonus Content for Mad Men on iTunes. This marks the first time that the series' special features have been made available through a digital platform. Previously, the supplements were only included with the DVD and Blu-ray releases. Mad Men seasons 1 through 7 are now on sale for $9.99 each from July 17 through July 31 at iTunes.com/MadMen. iTunes is now the exclusive digital home for the show's bonus content. Finally, TEN: The Enthusiast Network has announced plans to stream the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance through its AUTOMOBILE brand at Automobilemag.com, Motor Trend OnDemand, and on the Automobile magazine playlist within MOTOR TREND’s YouTube channel. The show will begin on August 20 at 2 p.m. PST. "We are truly excited to bring the most prized collectible automobiles in the world to auto enthusiasts in their home for the third year in a row," says TEN CEO Scott Dickey. "Our livestream hosts provide a unique mix of expert commentary on these beautiful, historic cars that complement and enhance the viewership of the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance." The Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance features 200 of the most prized collector cars in the world rolled onto the famed 18th fairway of the Pebble Beach Golf Links to compete for top honors. The livestream will be hosted by TEN's International Bureau Chief Angus MacKenzie, American motorsports announcer Bob Varsha, and British race car driver and veteran broadcaster Alain de Cadenet. Likewise, the livestream will also include a preshow segment highlighting the collector cars, and this year's stream will offer additional camera coverage from the awards show ramp. - A current Netflix subscription starts at $10 for HD streaming and $12 for Ultra HD streaming. - 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. - A current Hulu subscription starts at $8 per month with commercials. In addition, ad-free playback is available for $12 per month. Sources: Netflix (YouTube), Amazon, Deadline, Hulu, Motor Trend OnDemand, LionsgatePosted Sun Jul 23, 2017 at 10:00 PM PDT by:
