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An Interview with the MSI Country Head : Mr. Eric Kuo

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We had a wonderful chance to sit with MSI India Chief Mr. Eric Kuo ( He is General Manager for India and Executive V.P. for Global Sales, MSI)

Of course, we had a lot to ask about MSI and their business in India, we stuck to a few questions that could summarize the whole outlook.

Mr. Kuo told us that MSI since its 5 years in India has become the top most company for motherboards an VGA cards (graphics cards), They recently added notebooks to their line up and currently stand at number 6 or number 7 in the lineup of notebook manufacturers in India. Their goal is to reach top 3, but currently are focused on the top 5 mark.

Mr. Kuo also told us exclusively that the MSI WindPad will be launched in end of July and beginning of August this year. Pricing he said would be based on the currently available models and their features in comparison to the WindPad.

The MSI tablet Price in India is going to be a Good Price” Said Mr. Kuo

For X Slim vs Macbook Air and other super slip laptops he said that , MSI is constantly upgrading its portfolio and a new variant of the X-Slim Series should be out by the End of this Year.

Wind-Top or the All in One PC , was being considered and later dropped as an idea for the Indian market, simply because MSI feels that they need to build up reputation as a computer manufacturer within notebooks and Tablets before considering other electronic items.

We sprung him a surprise when we asked about the existence of an MSI PHONE, He laughed and replied

Anything can happen at MSI, We have already considered this option two years ago, and have a couple of units at our headquarters which are prototypes. A Mobile device requires a completely different strategy, we may not be ready for it yet”

Check out out Full Video Below

July 26, 2011
Paper Airplanes get an Electric Propeller, we regret a Broken childhood

Imagine your classroom paper plane flying for a minute and a half as soon as you launch it from your hands. Enter “Power Up”, the carbon fibre electric propellor which will power your paper planes for unto 1.5 minutes on just a 20 second charge.

Exceeding the charge time could blow the tiny capacitor and set you back another 20$ for a replacement new “Power Up”. It does seem a bit pricey at 20$, but you can’t really put a price on your child’s smile can you?.

[Tailor Toys]

July 26, 2011
Facebook’s Dedicated iPad app leaked in its iPhone app

The much awaited, dedicated iPad app for Facebook has be found in the latest update of the iPhone app. @AeroEchelon, a Canadian engineering student who first noticed the hidden code says “change the UIDeviceFamily to 2 for iPhone on the Facebook app” . A basic edit of the file structure of the App will allow you to get a preview of the App.

The Facebook iPad app uses a left-side menu system that can be accessed by the touch of a button or the flick of the iPad screen. The interface is unlike the other iPad apps for accessing Facebook and TechCrunch calls it “Spectacular”.

Hit the link for more screenshots and review by TechCrunch.

[TechCrunch]

July 26, 2011
Apple Patent Hints at the end of Hard Keys – A new Future for Keyboards

Apple is known for its iPhones, iPod and Macs along with its many Patents and Lawsuits. A recently filed patent from Apple suggests that the company is looking at the possibility of eliminating keyboards all together in the future from its desktop and laptop products. The new keyboards will be a flat surface and will be compromised of various materials and mechanisms with metal, plastic and glass form factors.

The technology is based of multiple ideas that involve piezoelectric components, haptic feedback and acoustic pulse recognition, the combination would allow the keyboard or flat key surface to receive an input via your finger. The flat surface design will have either a plastic or metal construction with perforations to help recognize the keys, a glass overlay to identify them with a display and finally all of this will be led backlit. Looks like Apple is finally taking a stab at the age old keyboard.

[Patently Apple]

July 26, 2011
Audi all Set to Launch the A6 Lightweight in India

We just got information from Audi that they are all set to launch the new A6 Lightweight in India. Looks like Audi is all set on doing research for the new car and are tapping the customer base.

As in motorsports, Audi says that its new A6 executive sedan also represents this commitment towards lightweight construction.

Drawing on the carmaker’s experience in lightweight materials with cars such as the all-aluminium A8 full-sized limousine and the steel-aluminium TT sports coupé, the latest-generation A6 also combines steel and aluminium for improved efficiency and lower emissions.The A6’s extensive aluminium construction (over 20 per cent) and high-tech steels have reduced body weight by 30kg over its predecessor.Against an equivalent all-steel body, the A6 is approximately 15 per cent lighter.

In fact, some versions are up to 80 kg lighter than its predecessor. For example, the 2.0 TDI model has a kerb weight of only 1,575 kg.

audi-a6.in

July 26, 2011

Olive Fluid VW1 Unboxing and Hands on + Video

So you wanted to see the Olive Fluid and we show you the Olive Fluid, A fairly budget Android handset with decent features and good looks. Check out the specs followed by images and video.

Stay Tuned for a Full Review

Tech Specs

Display and User Interface	Size	3.5″
	Resolution	320X480 pixels
	Type	TFT Capacitive Touch Screen
Design	Dimensions	1095214.8 mm
Design	Weight	117g
Processor and Chipset	Processor	STE6715, 468MHz Processor
Network	Operating System	Android OS, v2.1 (Eclair)
	Operating frequency	GSM 900/1800/1900
	Operating frequency	3G HSDPA 7.2 Mbps (900 / 2100)
Battery	Capacity	1300 mAH
	Talk time (maximum)	Up to 240 mins
	Standby time (maximum)	Up to 192 Hrs
Data and Connectivity	3G/GPS	Yes
	GPRS	Yes
	USB	Yes, v2.0 micro USB
	Wi-fi/ Bluetooth	Yes
Memory	Flash Memory	256 MB
Memory	Expandable Memory	Micro SD up to 32GB
Communications	Messaging	SMS, MMS
Communications	Email	POP/IMAP/Exchange
Social Networking	Social Networking	Yes
Camera	Resolution	3 Mega Pixels
Camera	Video Player and Recording	Yes
Music and audio	Music player	Yes
Music and audio	Stereo FM radio	Yes
Others	Gaming	Yes

Price: Rs. 7,650.00

Images

Video

July 25, 2011

Sony Launches the Cyber-shot TX55 with 16.2 MP sensor and great Low Light Performance (PR)

Sony has just launched a new Cybershot camera the TX55, it packs a 16.2 MP sensor with a 3.3-inch OLED touch-screen, and 1080i AVCHD video recording capability. It also has features from high end cameras from Sony such as Picture Effects, and a 42.9-megapixel Sweep Panorama mode. Price is set at $350 or IN Rs. 18,000/-.

[toggle title_open=”Collapse” title_closed=”Read the Press Release” hide=”yes” border=”yes” style=”default” excerpt_length=”0″ read_more_text=”Read More” read_less_text=”Read Less” include_excerpt_html=”no”]SONY’S NEWEST CYBER-SHOT CAMERA EXPANDS RANGE OF CREATIVE OPTIONS

Ultra-thin DSC-TX55 Camera Delivers Full HD Video, 3D and Picture Effect Mode – with up to10x Clear Image Zoom at Maximum Resolution

SAN DIEGO, July 25, 2011 – With an exceptionally slim and stylish design, Sony’s new DSC-TX55 Cyber-shot camera makes it easy to capture any moment with high-quality still photos, full high-definition video and amazing 3D images, providing consumers with the ultimate in creative control of their photos and videos.

The DSC-TX55 camera features a range of innovative new technologies, including “By Pixel Super Resolution” technology, which boosts the cameras’ zoom range to a virtual 10x without losing quality at the image sensor’s maximum resolution (16.2 million pixels). The new model is also the first Cyber-shot camera to offer a “Picture Effect” mode, which expands a shooter’s artistic possibilities without the need for editing software.

“Our new DSC-TX55 model redefines what a compact camera can do,” said Yosuke Tomoda, director of Sony Electronics’ Cyber-shot business. “In addition to the newly developed, ultra-thin chassis design, the camera features an incredible combination of features and performance, putting more creativity at users’ fingertips than ever before.”

The TX55 boasts a 16.2 megapixel, highly sensitive Exmor R™ CMOS sensor that delivers incredible image detail and ultra-low picture noise in both still images and Full HD video – even in low light conditions. Also the camera’s hi-speed auto focus can lock onto subject in as little as 0.1 seconds, letting users grab the most fleeting photo moments with ease.

16 Mega-pixel CMOS Sensor with Clear Image Zoom

Just 12.2mm slim (measurement excludes lens cover), which is smaller than the thickness of a standard AA-size battery, the Cyber-shot TX55 is the world’s thinnest camera in its class (among cameras with an optical anti-shake function). The new model captures Full HD AVCHD video clips as well as 16.2 megapixel still images through its innovative and exceptionally thin 5x optical folded zoom lens.

It introduces brand-new ‘Clear Image Zoom’ that boosts magnification without lowering the pixel count in the final image. Exclusive to Sony, ‘By Pixel Super Resolution’ processing further extends the camera’s 5x optical zoom range, allowing full-resolution 16.2 megapixel images with a maximum 10x zoom.

‘By Pixel Super Resolution’ technology also significantly boosts still image quality during movie recording. At a touch of the shutter button, ‘Dual Rec’ grabs detail-packed 12 megapixel-level still photos without interrupting Full HD video shooting.

Further, the camera’s back panel is dominated by a super-sized 3.3-inch (8.3cm) Xtra Fine™ OLED wide touch-screen, perfect for showing off photos and movie clips with incredible detail.

Enhanced Creativity and Functionality

The innovative Picture Effect mode broadens the range of artistic options with an exciting palette of in-camera image treatments. Effects can be viewed on the camera screen, allowing users to see the result of a chosen effect instantly rather than during the post-shooting experience.

The full list of seven Picture Effect options includes HDR Painting, Rich-tone Monochrome, Miniature, Toy Camera, Partial Color, Pop Color and Soft High-key.

Newly enhanced with additional electronic image stabilization for vertical and horizontal handshake correction, SteadyShot® image stabilization with Active Mode compensates for handheld camera movements during Full HD video shooting. Users can enjoy crisp, blur-free movie clips at all zoom settings, even when holding the camera while walking.

Great Results Made Easy

The new DSC-TX55 camera makes it simple for users to easily achieve DSLR-like picture quality. Superior Auto mode recognizes a wide range of shooting situations, adjusting exposure and other settings for high-quality images with low noise and high dynamic range.

Intelligent Sweep Panorama mode also features HR (High Resolution) mode, letting users capture breath-taking up to 42.9 megapixel panoramas. Just sweep the camera, then enjoy the results on a connected HD TV, or zoom in using a PlayStation®3 system to reveal the finest details.
3D Still Image captures dramatic 3D photos without the need for a large, bulky stereoscopic lens. With a single shutter press, the camera takes two shots consecutively, using the first image to estimate depth information to create a dramatic three-dimensional still image. Other 3D shooting options include 3D Sweep Panorama mode and Sweep Multi Angle.

Enabling its incredible slimness, the new TX55 camera includes a slot to accept Memory Stick Micro™ (Mark2) and MicroSD/SDHC flash memory cards. Sony offers a choice of ultra-compact, high quality media in capacities up to 16GB, with Memory Stick Micro™ being enhanced to achieve data transfer speed of up to 15MB/s (fastest among micro memory cards) by carrying the same high performance HX Engine controller used on Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo to fully support the new cameras’ features such as 3D and full HD video shooting. All cards come with free PC software (available via download), File Rescue for quick, easy recovery of deleted or damaged photos and files, and x-Pict Story™ that simplifies creation of dazzling slideshows.

Pricing and Availability

The new Sony Cyber-shot™ TX55 camera will be available for about $350 this September at Sony stores, www.sonystyle.com and other authorized retailers throughout the Sony Dealer Network.

The range of Sony Memory Stick Micro™ and MicroSD/SDHC media cards are available now throughout the Sony dealer network and along with an expanded range of coordinating accessories – including the colorful new LCJ-THF camera cover, AC-UD10 AC adaptor and BC-TRN2 fast battery charger.[/toggle]

July 25, 2011
The Space Invaders Multi-Tool

Everyone has needed a multi-tool at some point, but when you really need it, most of the time you don’t have one. One of the most popular multi-tools has been the Swiss Army Knife. Its got a ton of features and it works really well. What if you didn’t want to roam around with a Swiss Army Knife in your pocket all the time?

Well there is a device for you. Its called the Space Invaders Multi Tool. Its shaped like an alien invader from Space Invaders and it’s got a phillips and flat head screw driver built in so that you are never without them. And the best part? Its lightweight and has a key-chain ring for you to attach your car/home/office keys.

July 25, 2011
Apple Planning to buy HULU – Bring it to the World

Looks like Apple is in talks to buy HULU, according to a report by Bloomberg. In June, Hulu announced that it had hired Morgan Stanley and Guggenheim Partners to assist with a the sale of the company earlier reports stated that Yahoo! was interested in making a bid at that time.

Currently Hulu is available only in select countries. Should Apple buy it, we can expect a massive video service offering from Apple , that would easily take on the likes of Netflix, even make it available in less fortunate countries, like ours. (redundant sarcasm)

July 24, 2011
Google+ reaches 20 Million Mark in 3 Weeks

Google’s new Social Networking site Google+ has reached a massive 20 million subscribers, as almost everyone wants in on the action. Its just been a week since Google’s Larry Page said that Google plus reached 10 million. Page noted at the time that the service remains in a “field trial” mode, and with “a lot of barriers” to use it right now, but that the company is continuing to expand how many have access to it.

Despite its massive growth in its first three weeks, a population of 20 million is just a grain of sand in comparison with Facebook’s 750 million, half of whom log in daily.

July 22, 2011
Vodafone To Release Its Webbox Soon

First unveiled in South Africa in February, Vodafone’s Webbox is to be release in India soon. The device, which looks like a QWERTY keyboard, connects to any television set via standard RCA cables and converts the attached TV into a monitor. This setup can then be used to browse the web, read e-mail and perform simple computing tasks.

The device offers internet access via a Vodafone SIM card that supports 2.5G and EDGE networks. When connected, the home-screen offers users the ability to browse the web using an android version of Opera Mini 5.1, which compresses data by upto 90% to ensure fast loading pages. The device also boasts the ability to send and receive SMS and E-Mail messages, listen to FM radio as well as music, view photos in the photo gallery, edit documents with the built in text editor and integration with social networks.

The Webbox is expected to retail for Rs. 5800/- which includes a 12 GB data plan for free. You can see a demo of the device in the video below.

July 22, 2011
Optical Discs Get A Makeover – Enter Holographic Discs

Optical discs are quite an old technology. They’re big, fragile and easily damaged, and the principle behind them hasn’t changed much in years. GE has developed a commercial micro-holographic storage technology that can store 500 GB on a single optical disk the size of a CD. That’s over 20 times the storage capacity of today’s single side Blu-Rays and over 100 times the storage capacity of a single DVD.

GE has had this technology for a few years now but the real breakthrough was made when they successfully created a reader/writer system which can read and record data to and from the disc at Blu-Ray speeds, which makes the discs commercially viable.

Holographic storage is nothing like a CD, DVD or Blu-Ray. The only thing that the technologies have in common is the spinning plastic disc and the laser. Instead of reflecting a laser off the disc to read one’s and zero’s, holographic discs store data in three dimensional patterns, called holograms, within the material of the disc itself. To read a holographic disc, a laser is used to create a snapshot of the data stored on the disc, and multiple snapshots can be layered one on top of the other to increase storage density.

Since the data on a holographic disc is stored in 3D, GE has the entire volume of a disc to play with, therefore 500 GB is not the storage limit for this technology. Researchers at GE’s labs are already hard at work developing the second generation of these discs which could hold upwards of 1 TB of data. This technology will be backwards compatible with CD’s, DVD’s and Blu-Ray’s, ensuring the continued life of optical discs everywhere.

July 22, 2011
Over 1 Million Copies Of Lion Sold On Day 1

On the day that Apple launched the new version of its operating system OSX Lion, it sold over a million copies. Apparently, people were not intimidated by a lack of a disc to install from. The ease with which Apple has distributed its update can be seen in the sales figures. The price of the update along with the ability to download is must have helped boost sales even further than Apple expected.

The update is available in the Mac App Store for only $29. It will be available on physical media in August.

July 22, 2011
Read Unlimited Comics Till The End Of The Month For FREE
This one is for all the comic book lovers out there. Marvel comics has a monthly subscription package that lets users read unlimited digital comics. Well we’ve got a coupon that will let you read as many comics as you want for free. The only catch is that its valid till the 31^st of July. So hurry up and create your account on Marvel using the following steps:
- Go to the subscriptions page
- Select the Monthly Package
- Enter the Promo Code: CAP734
- Click Apply Promo
- Enter your user details.
- You dont have to enter your credit card info unless you want to continue your subscription after the promo expires.
- Agree to the terms and click the Start Your Subscription button.
Once you’ve created your account, you can browse Marvel’s digital comic library and simply click the Read It Online button for any comic that you wish to read. This will open a new window which loads a flash comic book reader. Not only can the reader display pages in a single page or two page format, but it can also zoom into specific panels while you’re reading. This makes it much easier to read the comics on a digital display.

We hope you enjoy this little surprise and we’ll see you after the 31^st. With great power comes great responsibility.
July 22, 2011
Chevrolet will Launch the Beat Diesel on Jul 25
General Motors India will launch the Cheverolet Beat Diesel in India on the 25th of July

With fluctuation in fuel prices in India from time to time, the new diesel Beat, the prices of which will be announced at the launch will revolutionise the small car segment, with its engine capacity and fuel economy,” Karl Slym President and Managing Director General Motors India said

The company plans to sell 1.4 lakh cars this year, an increase of over 30% over last years 1.1 lakh units. The company also plans to invest over US$ 500 Million over the course of the next 1.5 years to ramp up production in their Existing plant at Halol in Gujarat and an upcoming unit at Talegaon in Maharashtra bringing their overall capacity to a total of 2.5 Lakh Units a year

The details of the Cheverolet Beat diesel are as follows
- Advanced engine design, engineering & packaging.
- Combination of features and engine components package that provides improved performance.
- Significant improvement in NVH characteristics of the engine leading to more comfortable driving experience.
- Smart engine design and technology that provides optimum fuel efficiency in varied driving conditions.
- Higher low end torque delivery for improved driving experience in stop and go traffic conditions.
- Rigorously tested & proven in extreme Indian road and climatic conditions.
July 22, 2011