Tefibi

Sony NEX firmware update ver 4 samples

2011-06-21T23:36:00.001+08:00

Some samples taken after a day shooting with the updated version 4 firmware.

Observations: All the picture effects limit the user to shooting in Auto mode. Images are saved in JPEG format.
Partial colour effects need good light to ensure uniformity of the selected highlighted colour. That said, under natural sunlight, green seems to work quite well.
Pop gives a nice saturated look, but the existing Creative Styles already do that with manual options.
High contrast monochrome looks fantastic!

Video: "Peaking" in latest Sony NEX firmware update

2011-06-12T23:15:00.000+08:00

This video demonstrates how "peaking" is used for helping to indicate what is in focus. For current manual focus/manual lens NEX users, this means you may or may not necessarily need to zoom in to check for focus anymore. Awesome!

New Sony NEX C3 Manual focusing with "peaking" mode. from Rafiki on Vimeo.

Courtesy of Sony Alpha Rumors.

Another rave review of the Sony Nex

2011-06-03T13:44:00.001+08:00

Sony NEX Field Test: One Month In Buenos Aires, by Photography Concentrate.

Lovely pics too.

A Shot from My Sony NEX-3

2011-03-31T20:44:00.008+08:00

"Solitary"
Shot on Sony NEX-3 and Minolta MD Rokkor 50/1.7mm lens.

Click this link to see some of my photos shot on the Sony NEX-3 with various lenses.

Alternatively, hit up my Flickr account to see more pics.

Ideal Manual Lens Camera

2011-02-17T09:34:00.018+08:00

The launch of the Olympus E-PL2 triggered the search for the ideal manual lens digital camera for me. I've been a little disappointed in AF abilities of DSLRs, even with prime lenses. This was especially exacerbated by my combining some old Nikkor manual lenses with a Canon 500D recently, which gave me some truly awesome results. Exactly what I've been looking for actually.

Only problem I have with it is that I much rather have a smaller body, and the LiveView mode of the 500D (needed for zooming-in to focus), feels a little cumbersome.

I've been reading up on the Micro 4/3s that have come out, especially the PL1 and PL2 from Olympus, and despite having some really good selling points, still don't look as attractive to me as the Sony NEX series of cameras. The PL1/2 no doubt are probably one of the best bang for your buck if you're looking for a great out-of-camera JPEGs with the addition of fun art filters. Furthermore, there's a much larger assortment of lenses that are available for this series.

But I prefer the Sony NEX..

Why Sony NEX?

The NEX series, however, despite having only 3 lenses out so far (and a few more announced over the course of the next 2 years), is a fantastic camera body for lovers of manual lenses or vintage lenses.
Having the shortest flange distance of any modern camera, and couple with an APSC-sized sensor (DSLR equivalent), practically any lens can be attached to the body with an appropriate adapter (and there are many on eBay!), and you only get a 1.5x crop, vs 2x crop on a m4/3 camera (how manified your focal length is). Some lenses being used by others - Nikkor, Leica, Olympus, M39/M42, Canon FD, Minolta MC/MD, Russian Jupiters, Helios, German Biotars, Flektagons, and close-circuit TV camera C-mount lenses!
So how do you focus? With Manual-Focus Assist of course! With one touch of a button, you can zoom in 7x or 14x into your subject, focus till what you see is tack sharp, then unzoom and fire away. This is made easier with Version 3 of the firmware.
Other obvious selling points are the size of the body - it's TINY! Good low-light/ high ISO ability of this little camera. The tilting screen is a bonus for those who like to 'shoot-from-the-hip'. If you've been shooting LiveView with a clunky DSLR that doesn't have a tilt-screen, you will understand what a God-send this tilt-screen can be.

Manual shooting benefits aside, let's list the other amazing features this camera has (not all can be used in tandem with legacy lenses):
Handheld Twilight mode, High Dynamic Range (HDR), Continuous burst shooting (~7fps), Panorama shot, the list goes on..

Finally, I'll address the menu system. This is a big issue in many reviews for this camera, making it, initially, the camera that many amateurs/pros scorned because it seemed that Sony was selling a compact camera with an APSC-sized sensor, but with a dumbed-down menu. However, with the implementation of version 3 of the firmware, the NEX cameras now have 2 extra soft buttons that can be customized to suit the users preference. For manual focus users, they'll probably choose MF-focus assist and ISO, but its really your own choice if you'd rather have shooting modes, or other options set to either button. Furthermore, you can set the buttons to have multiple features too! Not an issue here at all IMHO.

Downsides of the NEX
Ok, so I've been raving about the plus points, let's take a step back and be a little more objective. Glaring flaws of the Sony NEX series:
- clip on flash: limited in use, especially if you want to link up with external flashes. Also, fiddly to screw on.
- kit lenses seem soft - some argue that image improves if you manually focus, or close down the aperture.
- few available lenses for the E-mount. The Sony E-mount roadmap is out, and there are a few lenses on the cards due for 2011/12.
- lack of in-body stabilization: could be a problem, though I've read of many who use their neckstraps as a third pivot for steadier shots. And the 1.5x crop factor would not magnify lens shake as badly as a 2x crop factor (ie. a 50mm lens will be 75mm on NEX, but 100mm on m4/3). Image stabilization is in the E-mount lenses (not all though).
- no viewfinder (only applies to those who NEED one - as someone who spent years looking thru an LCD on the back of cameras, this isn't an issue).
- Movie-record format - NEX-5 allows users the option of using either AVCHD or MPEG format. MPEG allows for easier editing, vs AVCHD which compresses better. The NEX-3 uses only MPEG format.
- Neutral & unsharpened JPEG images: out-of-camera JPEGs may not be as 'nice' due to having a neutral colour tone and low sharpening. This means, you will need to get your hands dirty, post-processing your images to look better, as opposed to the PL1/2's gorgeous OOC images.
- form-factor: may not suit everybody: I've come across some users who simply cannot get used to the small size of the body, or are unused to the idea that the lens should be part of the grip. So go hold one at your local retailer first before ordering one.

So should you find these issues bothering you, perhaps then the NEX is not for you.

What's the difference between the NEX-3 and NEX-5?

Both shoot HD videos: NEX-5 can shoot videos in 1080i and on AVCHD (smaller files), whereas the NEX-3 shoots in 720p on MPEG format (easier to edit).
The NEX-5 has a magnesium body while the NEX-3 has a plastic body - both feel solid to reviewers.
The NEX-5 has an IR sensor for use with remote triggers.
Otherwise, they use the same internals, and thus image quality-wise, there is no discernible difference.
The NEX-3 has a flatter but wider grip, while the NEX-5 has a more grippy protrusion.

NEX + manual lenses
Here's some 'camera-porn' from those who've fitted some awesome lenses onto their NEX bodies:

This shot courtesy of silvergetz from Club Snap. For more of such shots, please refer to this post on Golf To Impress.

Voices from the Net abt MF on NEX:

re2_king from Flickr says:

So far, i've tried adapters on a Lumix GF1 and I have to say, the Sony NEX (in my opinion) blows the GF1 out of the water. We havent had this much fun swapping lenses and getting different results. It feels like the NEX5, to us, is a digital back that just records whatever the lens interprets the scene we aim it at.

mediageek on his own blog:

Being able to mount lenses of all different brands and mounts was one of the features that really attracted me to the NEX, and using these F-mount lenses on the NEX-5 was no disappointment. Although this requires that you manually select your aperture on the lens and also manually focus, I found this to be no more difficult than using an older manual film SLR.

So why spend hundreds/thousands of dollars to get the latest brightest lens for your DSLR when you can shave off that expense by picking up some cheaper legacy glass on eBay, and still have lots of fun taking photos? Obviously, the above may not apply to certain classes of photographers who still need super-fast AF. But that's only for the really specialized sort, like sports photographers, among others. Most of us will probably find the convenience of having a small form factor camera with an intechangeable lens and a large APSC sensor to better suit our style.

Review: Olympus Pen E-PL2

2011-01-13T10:39:00.005+08:00

Review of the new Olympus Pen E-PL2, from a polish blog "Fotopolis". Read it translated to English here!

Summary:
+ Excellent image quality, especially the details of reproduction
+ Good workmanship
+ Beautiful retro design
+ Compact
+ Built-in flash
+ Stabilization matrix
+ Accessory port
+ IAUTO mode with Live Guide
+ Interesting artistic filters
+ Powerful personalization
+ 720p HD video recording with AF

- The average quality of the monitor
- Free serial mode

Comes in several colour combinations!

It seems this is camera goes very well with your old manual focus Legacy lenses. Firstly, you have a wide variety of already existing Micro 4/3 adaptors available. Secondly, there is in-body image stabilization (so you're not dependent on stabilization in the glass itself). And finally, you can zoom in when focusing with a touch of a button, so no more squinting if your body doesn't allow manual focus assistance. Compelling reasons I say!
One downside is that you won't be able to use the Art filters in Manual or Priority modes since the Art mode is only accessible via the dial.

Price? Roughly USD$600 (with lens? I'm not certain).

Olympus XZ-1 challenges the advanced compacts

2011-01-11T11:26:00.003+08:00

Olympus has thrown in a killer of a phone to challenge the advance compact camera category, taking on the Panasonic LX5, Canon S95 and Samsung EX-1.

With a bright f/1.8 lens, a control ring (like the S95) and a processor that David Chua claims is noiseless at ISO1600, will it's US$500 price tag be a deterrent in this untested performer? I'll bide my time and wait for the pro reviews first.

Read more from Wired Gadget Lab.

Toyota Prius C concept is gorgeous!

2011-01-11T09:50:00.002+08:00

Toyota Prius have long been known to be butt ugly cars despite their energy efficiency. Someone in the Design arm finally took heed, and voila - the Prius C has emerged. I believe it is a much cooler design concept, with somewhat similar lines to the Volkswagen Scirocco, but don't quote me on that.

Read more from Engadget.

Motorola Atrix - mobile phone/desktop revolution

2011-01-10T15:23:00.002+08:00

Watch the video and marvel:

Then read more about it from Engadget and Tech Republic.

The Great Leica M9 Give-away, at SteveHuffPhoto.com

2011-01-07T09:50:00.003+08:00

Click here to be taken to the Great Leica M9 Give-away Contest, by Steve Huff and Seal.

Stand a chance to win Seal's own Leica M9 by first registering to 2 websites, and then creating a 2-picture photo narrative. Open to global entrants. Contest ends 5th Feb 2011.

Major plot spoilers for "Captain America: The First Avenger"

2011-01-07T09:44:00.002+08:00

Some major spoilers given away here. Do take note that it basically summarizes the entire plot. To avoid the entire details, do read this article from MTV Splashpage which just gives SOME spoilers away.

The Green Hornet: Kato Vision

2011-01-07T09:35:00.001+08:00

Movie Trailers - Movies Blog

Taken from MTV Splashpage.

Great photo-editing app for iPad - Photogene 2.0

2011-01-06T14:20:00.004+08:00

Got this off Wired, makes me wish I had an iPad. This is one awesome photo-editing app, it even has the Clone and Heal tools! Coupled with Eye-Fi's SD Card's wireless transfer of images, editing on the go becomes a huge possibility. Start phasing out desktops please.

Read more at Wired Gadget Lab.

Kodak's Underwater Camera will put its underwater film camera out of business

2011-01-06T13:52:00.003+08:00

Kodak has outed a new underwater sports camera, the EasyShare Sport, that touts 12MP capabilities (up to 10-feet depths). The amazing thing about this ugly little thing? It costs only US$80.

Consider all the difficulties and cost of developing those disposable underwater cameras you brought on your holidays because you didn't want to endanger your "real" cameras. The cost of those could really add up fast, not to mention the wait you would have to endure just cos you hadn't finished using up all the exposures..

Read more at Wired Gadget Lab.

Beam your photos direct to your iPhone via Eye-Fi

2011-01-06T13:44:00.003+08:00

Soon, you won't need to connect your camera physically to your PC in order to download your photos. With improvements made to Eye-Fi's wireless SD Card, you can send your photos straight from your camera to your iPad/iPhone, and edit them with your Apps (like Photogene 2.0)! For the casual photographer, that might make the transferring process much easier.

Read more from Wired Gadget Lab.

Images from Tintin movie

2011-01-03T10:05:00.001+08:00

Here are some high-resolution images from the upcoming movie, "The Adventures of Tintin: The Secret of the Unicorn," a motion-capture 3D picture from director Steven Spielberg and producer Peter Jackson.

Courtesy of Filmofilia, via MTV Splashpage.

Merry Christmas to one and all!

2010-12-24T13:06:00.001+08:00

BMW S1000R flash projection ad

2010-12-17T11:47:00.003+08:00

Notch up another success for advertising! And this is interesting cos it features the latest BMW sports bike.

Courtesy of Engadget.

Nexus One Unboxing by Ninjas (and then the Nexus S!)

2010-12-17T11:39:00.004+08:00

A little late, but this is freaking good! Nexus One Ninja unboxing, by Patrick Boivin.

After this, make sure to click this link and watch the NEW Nexus S unboxing.. Awesome stuff! From Engadget.

LG Optimus 2X: First dual-core Android smartphone with HDMI TV-Out

2010-12-16T12:25:00.004+08:00

LG will launch the above-named Tegra 2 device soon. It comes with a HDMI TV-Out port! Itching for the reviews next!

Read more at Engadget.

X-Men Destiny Game Trailer

2010-12-15T13:28:00.001+08:00

Courtesy of MTV Splashpage.

Thor movie trailer!

2010-12-14T14:53:00.001+08:00

Movie Trailers - Movies Blog

Thanks to MTV Splashpage!

Update: hmm.. I don't know.. Mjolnir kinda looks a little too light and impotent..

Review: Nexus S by Engadget

2010-12-13T13:45:00.004+08:00

Engadget being the Apple fan boys they are, one has to take this review with a little pinch of salt. Afterall, these are the same boys that said the Samsung Galaxy S wasn't quite the competitor to the iPad that it turned out to be.
Anyway, finding out about the little quirks of the phone - its curved surface, for instance, and some of its potential, would be what I'd read this article for. Not too much the focusing on the negatives that Engadget casually denounces.

Read about the Nexus S review from Engadget.

Weta Workshop makes Team Fortress' Sentry Gun

2010-12-13T13:41:00.001+08:00

Review: Infinity Blade game on iOS

2010-12-10T10:37:00.003+08:00

Engadget reviews the first (?) 3D game for the iOS. The verdict is that the US$5.99 you pay is worth every cent!

Google launches Android 2.3 Gingerbread &Nexus S

2010-12-09T15:42:00.001+08:00

Via Lifehacker.

What you need to know about Gingerbread, Nexus S

2010-12-09T10:38:00.002+08:00

Excellent article by CNET Asia consolidates all the information out there about Gingerbread and the new Google phone Nexus S.

Read on if you have an interest about the next Google device and the upcoming Android OS.

Steve Huff reviews Ricoh GXR, richer colour than NEX-5

2010-12-08T10:53:00.003+08:00

I had the Ricoh GXR in my hands some months ago. That was when the price seemed to have come off. I didn't really know much about the different modules on offer back then, but Steve Huff got his hands on the GXR with the 50 2.5 and 28 2.5 modules and has published a well-thought out review of the unit.

Let's just say I'm astounded by the richness of the colour from the shots taken off his 'real-world review'. Furthermore, this comparison between the GXR and the Sony NEX-5 reveals the difference in the way the pictures turn out. I LIKE IT!

RIM Playbook a serious tablet contender

2010-12-07T10:31:00.003+08:00

RIM's David Neale gives a comprehensive demonstration of the Playbook in the embedded video. The device promises true multi-tasking (as shown in the video), with Flash and Adobe Air enabled for web-surfing.

Read more here, via Engadget.

Early version specs located here.

Viber - Free calls via Wifi & 3G

2010-12-07T10:22:00.002+08:00

Who needs calling minutes anymore? With Viber's new free calling software for iPhone (and soon for Android), make calls from iPhone to iPhone for free!
Download the free App now, and let's get this thing going..

Via Engadget (and our friends).

Nexus S update

2010-12-07T10:01:00.003+08:00

The next Google phone has been outed, the Nexus S (by Samsung) sports:
- 4-inch WVGA display
- triband HSPA with AWS support (no HSPA+, seemingly)
- 5 megapixel camera
- 16GB of onboard storage
- 512MB of RAM
- a gyroscope
- "contour display"
- integrated VoIP support
- Android 2.3 Gingerbread.

Read more & view the gallery of pics from Engadget.

Android 2.3 SDK revealed

2010-12-07T09:58:00.002+08:00

Read about the latest iteration of the Android OS - presenting Gingerbread!

Thanks to Engadget.

1:18 DeLorean replica in a portable hard drive

2010-11-26T10:10:00.002+08:00

Grab this absolutely adorable DeLorean replica from the movie, Back to the Future II! The cost of US$250 can be justified by the fact that its a portable hard drive as well.. maybe..

Read about it from Engadget.

Kinect: 1 step closer to virtual interface frm Minority Report

2010-11-26T09:54:00.003+08:00

Kinect modders have been making the news on gadget blogs with all their latest hacks on Microsoft's latest add-on for their Xbox gaming console. The latest of which is the ability to wave your hands and interact with Windows 7 and the internet browser. This puts us one step closer to the virtual reality desktop interface we saw in the Tom Cruise movie Minority Report. I won't be surprised to see virtual projection screens being used with the Kinect tech soon. If that's the case, and if MS has a strong patent on their tech ... BUY MORE MICROSOFT SHARES NOW!

DepthJS from Fluid Interfaces on Vimeo.

Review: Samsung Galaxy Tab by CNET Asia

2010-11-24T11:06:00.002+08:00

CNET Asia reviews the Galaxy Tab with a high 8/10 rating, citing only the proprietary dock connector, fingerprint-prone glass and cost as downsides.

Read the full review here.

Jenga Pistol

2010-11-23T09:46:00.001+08:00

This is just pure win.

Find out more here, via Wired Gadget Lab.

First image of Judge Dredd

2010-11-22T10:40:00.002+08:00

Karl Urban as a Judge Dredd who will mostly keep his helmet in place. This will be a different take to the Stallone version of Dredd who takes his helmet off and reveals the man pretty quickly. As discussed in MTV Splashpage, this takes away the enigma that is Dredd, something the comic doesn't do.

Review: Motorola Defy - tough Android

2010-11-19T09:32:00.002+08:00

Motorola has pushed out a tough Android device, called the Defy on T-Mobile, that looks indistinguishable from any other Android handset. This isn't really an issue cos it means you can tote the device around without looking like you're holding an over-the-top toughed out device that is larger, heavier and looks like it could take a 3-storey drop.

Check out the rave review by Engadget here.

1st Trailer for Cowboys & Aliens

2010-11-18T09:38:00.002+08:00

I don't know this comic and I haven't read it, but a movie with Cowboys shooting at Aliens? Sounds like cheesey fun to me. Stars Daniel Craig (free to work now that the James Bond films are on hiatus), and Harrison Ford (hoping to further establish his Sci-Fi reputation following the latest crappy Indy Jones movie).

Check it out at MTV Splashpage.

Android Froyo now on iPad, iPhone4

2010-11-16T14:54:00.001+08:00

Read it at Redmond Pie.
But whether it works well still remains to be seen.

Come to the 3GS soon!

Nexus S power off animation

2010-11-16T10:37:00.003+08:00

Old school CRT TV winking out style.. very nice!

Taken from Engadget.

Green Lantern trailer, by ET

2010-11-15T13:07:00.001+08:00

via MTV Splashpage.

Update:
And another trailer here.

Android Froyo now on iPhone thru Bootlace!

2010-11-11T08:39:00.008+08:00

Good news for iPhone users who've been yearning to get their hands on an Android device (ie. ME) - Hackers have now come up with a way to dual boot Android's latest Froyo OS onto your iOS device (limited to certain devices only - not 3GS or iPhone 4 yet). You will have to jailbreak your phone, but thereafter, installing Froyo will be just like running an App! Simple. It's the marriage of both worlds - Apple brawn and Google brains. Sweet!

Time to get far away from iTunes!
Read the How-To here (@ Redmond Pie) via Engadget.

Potential problems:
1) Button shortage. The last time we saw an Android to iPhone port, the volume buttons were re-purposed to be the Call and Home buttons. Wonder if this remains the same.
2) Does it work fine? See this video to get an idea of how Froyo on iPhone works.
User thealtendorf says that the port is "not recommended for use in day to day, the camera does not work, it is still quite unstable, but with this update method is much easier."

More on the new Thundercats

2010-11-04T09:43:00.002+08:00

More info about the upcoming Thundercats animated series remake, read about it at MTV Splashpage.

Skyfire App allows Flash on iOS devices

2010-11-03T11:16:00.002+08:00

Skyfire is a web browser that automatically transcodes Flash video into HTML5 so it can display on your iDevice (instead of the blue Lego block symbolizing a lack of Flash support).

Read more at Wired Gadget Lab.

Review: Galaxy Tab by Engadget

2010-11-02T11:20:00.004+08:00

Engadget has outed a review of the Samsung Galaxy Tab, and have dubbed it the best Android tablet on the market, and the first true competitor to Apple's iPad.

There are several caveats, to do with how Google will support the Tab in future, since the Tab is based on Android 2.2 which isn't the ideal tablet OS until Google releases Honeycomb.

Pricing suggestions also imply that the next iteration of the Tab (the Wifi version), should be the one to go for, although, if you can justify a 2-year contract for 3G data, by all means do get the device. But if internet tethering can be proven to work with your own 3G mobile device, all the better.

Read the full review here.

First Image of Captain America

2010-10-29T09:47:00.004+08:00

By Entertainment Weekly, via MTV Splashpage, check it out:

Updated (01 Nov 2010):
More pics of Captain America - are these enough to convince you of his "Super Soldier" status?

Updated (03 Nov 2010):
Even more pics from the movie!

Playstation Phone!

2010-10-27T10:53:00.001+08:00

Sony has combined the Playstation Go with the Android 3.0 platform to push out a new hybrid - the Playstation Phone!

Read more from Engadget.

Review: Mad Catz Cyborg Rat 9

2010-10-22T09:57:00.003+08:00

Engadget has produced a review of the Mad Catz Cyborg Rat 9 that we featured way back in Jan 2010 here.

Read more about how it performs, how comfortable and customizable it really is.

Brammo Enertia Plus

2010-10-20T10:24:00.001+08:00

The latest version of the Brammo Enertia, the Enertia Plus, now comes with extended mileage (80 miles on a single charge), and side saddle bag options! MSRP at US$8995.

Courtesy of Wired Gadget Lab.

WoW Cataclysm: Deathwing the Destroyer

2010-10-18T13:57:00.002+08:00

Soon, the World of Warcraft will change again. Continents will shift, buildings will be flattened, and the lands will burn.. Cataclysm will come on the wings of an armoured fire-breathing dragon, whose single wing-flap can bring down man-made structures, and cause tidal waves..

Courtesy of Joystiq.

Samsung Galaxy Tab gets priced in SG

2010-10-15T10:51:00.002+08:00

The soon-to-be-launched Samsung Galaxy Tab (16GB memory) will be priced at S$998 (US$769.23), so says CNET Asia. This is priced exactly the same as iPad 16GB version. Operator subsidies are expected, and if you sign up for another 3G line, you can probably expect to pick up the device at a lower price.

MCR's Na Na Na video feat Grant Morrison

2010-10-15T09:44:00.003+08:00

My Chemical Romance team up with Grant Morrison on their latest single from their upcoming album "Danger Days: True Lives of the Fabulous Killjoys".

My Chemical Romance - New Music - More Music Videos

Why Windows Phone 7 will make Android seem more chaotic

2010-10-13T13:39:00.004+08:00

Here's a good comparative analysis by Wired Gadget Lab. With the first Windows Phone 7 handsets expected out in November, we get to see why a Windows phone might be a better buy over an Android.

It IS still rather early to say if WP7 phones will actually pose a significant enough threat to iOS and Android, considering the spectacular failure of the Microsoft Kin phones. The verdict is yet to be made.

Instagram App - like Lomo-twitter for your iPhone pics

2010-10-07T11:44:00.004+08:00

Got this off Wired Gadget Lab - an app that promises to be a "big deal", like Twitter and Facebook social network big!

This app gives you free lomo-effects to your iPhone pictures and then allows you to share your images on the network or Facebook etc (it also communicates with FourSquare to geotag your images). People are already doing it on Facebook, so will it really be all there? Well, you read it here first! (well, at WGL anyway).

Update:
I signed up but seemed to have a problem logging in. =P

Review: Samsung WB2000

2010-10-01T13:40:00.003+08:00

Dwarfed by its brighter lens brother, the EX-1, the WB2000 is a swiss-army knife type of camera that more than meets the needs of a wide variety of users, from beginners looking to take some good snaps and video footage of their friends and family, right up to the power-user who wants full control over the photographic process and quality to match.

Read the full review by Photography Blog, and find out why it gets the "Highly Recommended" award.

Evolution Robotics' Mint Floor Cleaning Robot

2010-10-01T10:38:00.002+08:00

Check out this in-depth review of Evolution Robotics' Mint Floor Cleaning Robot here.

This device is NOT a vacuum cleaning robot, so its biggest selling point would be that it is silent. There are a few "downgrades" from features that the Roomba or Neato XV-11 robots have, but the reviewer feels that maintenance of all three units amount to the same anyway. Another point I didn't like was the need to buy additional "North-Star" guidance units for the Mint to clean multiple rooms effectively.

However, the lower cost price (possibly moot after additional North-Star units) and silence of the cleaning process, together with the ability to choose wet or dry sweeping methods make this device a comparable contender for your money.

Via Wired Gadget Lab.

Its Official - Christopher Nolan to direct Batman 3

2010-09-30T09:37:00.001+08:00

This taken from MTV Splashpage. Christopher Nolan has confirmed that he will be taking the helm of the next Batman movie!

Read more here.

Fan-made "The Walking Dead" intro

2010-09-28T10:39:00.000+08:00

THE WALKING DEAD "Opening Titles" from Daniel Kanemoto on Vimeo.

Via MTV Splashpage.

Samsung Galaxy Tab

2010-09-24T10:00:00.001+08:00

Even with the newest slates and tablet announced recently, this video demo of the Galaxy Tab just blows me away..

I really wish the pricing on it were a little more friendly though. Its set for A$1000 in Australia. =(

Thanks to Engadget.

Fujifilm Finepix X100 is a retro APS-C rangefinder

2010-09-20T09:54:00.004+08:00

Got this hot off Engadget - Fujifilm's X100 has been outed, and from the specs and pictures, looks like it could be the camera to beat all the current micro four-thirds and mirror-less cameras out there! Only if you like the look of rangefinders of old that is. And Leicas. *smokin!*

Although I've never been a fan of the Fujifilm EXR compact cameras out in the market now (mostly due to the looks), this one takes the cake, and visually wins hands-down for me. And wow, an APS-C sensor and f2.0 lens (coupled with 6400 ISO)? Nice....

Read more from Engadget.

Update (22 Sep '10):
Engadget goes Hands-on with the X100! Read their impressions here.

Playstation Move is out in Singapore (as of 15 Sep)

2010-09-17T11:12:00.002+08:00

Yes.. how slow of me. Playstation Move, out now in several bundled packages, in all good stores near you!

'Priest' trailer drops in

2010-09-16T13:58:00.001+08:00

This comes via Movie Cultists:

HTC launches the Desire HD

2010-09-16T13:19:00.001+08:00

The new 4.3" Android handset from HTC has been outed. Check out the specs from Engadget.

Lord of the Rings MMO now Free-to-play

2010-09-15T14:56:00.002+08:00

Check out the game's official site here.

Via Joystiq.

Samsung NX100 Revealed

2010-09-15T11:22:00.005+08:00

Details of the Samsung NX100, successor to last year's 'surprisingly good' NX10 mirrorless camera, have been outed, thanks to Engadget. That compact body has some nifty tricks including a APS-C-sized sensor, an optional GPS unit, and
"a dedicated 'i-Function' button that allows users to scroll through manual settings, and a focus ring which is used to change parameters for each setting. Users can toggle between shutter speed, aperture, EV, WB, and ISO by simply using the i-Function button and ring on the lens".

Read it at Engadget.

Wired Gadget Lab also has an article on the NX100.

Rock Band 3 Pro Guitar explained

2010-09-15T11:03:00.001+08:00

For the normal Rock Band guitar users.. this looks really hard.. and I play a proper guitar too. =P

Read more from Engadget.

Zippo LED Flashlight

2010-09-14T14:35:00.002+08:00

Here's a hack from Instructables via Lifehacker, turning any of your unused Zippo lighters into an LED flashlight. Pretty good for ex-smokers who still want that cool little case to fool around with.

Darn I gotta find my old Zippo now..

Camera Strap Buddy makes cameras easier to carry

2010-09-14T13:37:00.004+08:00

This ingeniously simple device makes carrying bulky heavy cameras around your neck a thing of the past. By making use of the tripod screw under the body of your cam, you can now sling your camera messenger-bag style, eliminating the behind-the-neck strain as well as allowing the camera to lie comfortably lens down. Only US$15!

Thanks to Wired Gadget Lab.

Sneaks of Captain America + Hydra bikes!!

2010-09-14T11:06:00.001+08:00

From MTV Splashpage. Check out the awesome futuristic-looking HYDRA bikes found at the link!

Review: Panasonic LX5, by CNET Asia

2010-09-08T14:00:00.004+08:00

CNET Asia's Leonard Goh has released his review of the Panasonic LX5, successor to the legendary LX3.

But the new Lumix sported similar basic shooting specifications as the LX3, and nothing seemed to have changed much. That said, we tried out the LX5 for a couple of weeks and we dare say it has shown an improvement in performance, features and image quality that should pacify critics.

So the new features justify the changes, but does the price? At S$799, it's crossing into DSLR pricings already.

Read the full review via CNET Asia.

Dushare is a Peer-to-Peer One-click file sharing solution

2010-09-07T14:39:00.003+08:00

If you've wanted to transfer a file or 3 to a friend, but found that IM sharing has failed you, you might want to give Dushare a try.

Find out more from Lifehacker.

S90 reviewed by Photography Blog

2010-09-06T14:39:00.002+08:00

With the new Canon S95 boasting improvements such as 720p video recording and a HDR mode, along with an improved control wheel, Photography Blog gives a high rating to the new Canon compact, successor to the popular S90.

Read more here.

Telltale Games to make a 'Back to the Future' game!

2010-09-03T14:14:00.002+08:00

Telltale games, publishers of recent Sam & Max episodic adventures will be working with the screenwriter of the original Back to the Future movies, Bob Gale, to produce episodic Back to the Future games!

Read more via Joystiq.

Playstation Move video

2010-09-03T13:51:00.004+08:00

Come on, tell me you don't want the Playstation Move...

Via Joystiq.

Joystiq also does a review of the Playstation Move here.

This said, when I met the proper line-of-sight and distance needs of the hardware and software, the tracking and accuracy of the Move was astounding. I talk about these things more in my individual game reviews, but highlights for me came in the form of Sports Champions' table tennis (which replicated my every wrist flick perfectly) and archery (grabbing an arrow from my quiver with one Move controller, then touching it to the other acting as a bow and pulling back feels totally natural); and I was blown away by Tumble's super-precise placement of differently shaped blocks, down to complete 1:1 tracking into and out of the screen. It basically feels like you're reaching into your TV (and I wasn't even playing in 3-D).

Review of the Move's launch games are found here.

Samsung Galaxy Tab Preview by Engadget

2010-09-03T10:32:00.003+08:00

Engadget have come up with a preview video demonstrating the awesomeness of the soon-to-be-released 7" tablet by Samsung called the Galaxy Tab. Click the link to go to the video which really demonstrates how smooth and fast this Android device is. You can also see how nicely sized a 7" tablet is.

- Here's Samsung's own video advertisement:

- Here's some badly translated gaffs seen on the advertising copy for the Galaxy Tab. Click here to view the gallery.

- The only downside so far is that the Galaxy Tab will be priced similar to the iPad (US$900-1100 are estimates so far), for less memory space, according to the leaks here.

Unlike the Galaxy S, Samsung plans to release the Tab in Europe first, then US and finally Asia thereafter. =(

Batman: Arkam City preview images

2010-09-02T13:12:00.005+08:00

MTV Splashpage got their hands on some preview images of Batman: Arkham City, the sequel to the smash hit game Batman: Arkham Asylum. New characters include Two-Face, Catwoman, Harley Quinn and more!

Check it out here.

Update:

More screens via Joystiq.

Review: Playstation Move by Engadget

2010-09-02T13:06:00.003+08:00

The Playstation Move, the Wii equivalent add-on for Playstation 3 consoles, has been reviewed by Engadget, who give it a thumbs-up in favour of Microsoft's Kinect. This virtual gaming option has been long awaited, especially for those who've been waiting for an improvement over Nintendo's Wii graphics limitation - Nintendo were the first to launch this style of gaming which has allowed it to reach out to a wider audience than just console-gamers.

Read the full review of the Move system here.

Dragon Age 2 trailer

2010-09-01T13:57:00.000+08:00

Here's a preview for Dragon Age 2, director's cut trailer:

From Joystiq.

Archos range of 5 Tablets

2010-09-01T10:45:00.004+08:00

Competition for the tablet market is heating up, with Archos (famous for the Archos 5) launching a series of tablets running Android Froyo 2.2.
The sizes include: 2.8", 3.2", 4.3", 7" and 10.1", with the largest 2 appearing to run on capacitive screens.

Check out Engadget's article, comes with a video.

Lifehacker Pack for Android: Best of Android Apps

2010-08-30T14:25:00.001+08:00

Lifehacker packs a list of the best recommended apps for Android users. Check out what you should be via Lifehacker.

Cyanogen Android Mod 6.0 with Froyo

2010-08-30T13:33:00.003+08:00

The latest version of Cyanogen's mod for Android phones (this hacker is now famous for hacking mobile phone interfaces to improve them). No need to wait for your official download off air version when this guy is releasing them early for you, and with Froyo Android 2.2 too! You will need to have to root your phone of course.

Phones include: Nexus One, Aria, Dream/Magic, Desire, Evo, Hero, Slide, Droid Incredible, and Droid.

Via Lifehacker.

The Losers DVD Artwork

2010-08-30T10:31:00.002+08:00

The Losers will be going to DVD and Blu-Ray, with some cover artwork by Jock, the comic's artist. Just wanted to feature some brilliance here today.

Via MTV Splashpage.

Awesome Drop Transfers Files to Your Android Device

2010-08-26T13:46:00.000+08:00

If for some reason, connecting your Android device to your PC for purposes of file transfers is troublesome and not something you see happening a lot of, try this app "Awesome Drop" for over the air transfers. Simple drag-and-drop, see vid for how it works:

Via Lifehacker.

Auto Rotate Switch for Android

2010-08-26T13:02:00.004+08:00

If you're the kind who likes to read on your phone while lying in bed, this may be the very app that you're looking for - to stop your screen from auto-rotating. You know how infuriating it is when you're trying to read a FB status or test on a website when your screen keeps auto-rotating because the phone doesn't understand that you're no longer standing or sitting upright. Yup, this solves it. This app stops the screen auto-rotation without needing you to go thru several layers of menu to get to it. It sits on your home screen as a short-cut (not a widget, so it doesn't suck up memory), and you simply toggle it on/off as desired. Nice.

QR code and links via Lifehacker.

Review: Neato XV-11

2010-08-25T11:38:00.003+08:00

The Neato XV-11 was mentioned some months back as having the a laser-guided room mapping system that doesn't rely on bumping into objects to find them.

Engadget got their hands on a review unit and did a comparison with a Roomba. The results were positive for the Neato, being a more efficient and precise cleaning robot that hardly bumps into objects. It does costs over USD$400 however.

Read the full review here at Engadget.

Samsung Galaxy Tab Teaser Video

2010-08-25T10:39:00.002+08:00

Awesome stuff! Samsung Galaxy Tab, the upcoming 7" slate based on the Android operating system, will be revealed Sept 2 at Berlin! Watch out for it!

Got the headsup from Engadget.

Fallout 3 Plasma Rifle replica

2010-08-25T10:35:00.001+08:00

Here's a replica of the Plasma Rifle seen in Fallout 3:

Read more about it from Engadget.

Walking Dead Trailer Debuts!

2010-08-25T10:26:00.002+08:00

From a comic series of the same name, now a TV series..

Courtesy of MTV Splashpage.

Warhammer 40,000: Dark Millennium Online Trailer

2010-08-24T14:40:00.000+08:00

Atari & Cryptic to produce D&D Neverwinter

2010-08-24T14:13:00.004+08:00

As the title says, Atari and Cryptic, having recently famously produced Champions Online (CO), are set to collaborate to revive the online Dungeons & Dragons world. Basically, the game allows a player & 4 NPCs or 5 players to team up and take on the campaign.
This being the case, I wonder if there will be a monthly subscription fee for hosting these players.. There were some arguments from players of CO, asking why CO was a game with a subscription as players have the option to play solo, without interacting with other online players at all.

Yes, Cryptic is working on a new fantasy-themed multiplayer game, and yes, it takes place in the Forgotten Realms campaign setting…but while it won't officially be a Neverwinter Nights 3 to follow the previous two games from BioWare and Obsidian, it also won't be a traditional massively multiplayer online game, either. The game will instead focus on cooperative play, requiring players to log into a server to start a session and encouraging players to tackle the adventure together. Neverwinter will give you the option to go solo if you prefer, but this will be a much harder way to play. The game will also feature editing tools that will let you create your own custom content and adventures, and it will offer an all-new story that ties into a new series of novels penned by author R.A. Salvatore.

Read Gamespot's interview with Jack Emmert, CEO of Cryptic, on this venture here.

Thanks to Joystiq.

Rock Band 3 Trailer

2010-08-24T14:05:00.001+08:00

Courtesy of Joystiq.

And this is the full 83-song list for the upcoming release.

Samsung Galaxy Tab suspiciously video'd

2010-08-24T13:25:00.002+08:00

Here's a clip of the Samsung Galaxy Tablet. Taken from around the corner of what looks like a train, with the onlooking passenger suspiciously watching the videoer film the tablet in almost-action:

Via Engadget.

Full Frank Miller Ad hits the web

2010-08-24T13:18:00.002+08:00

We chanced upon the shortened teaser via MTV Splashpage earlier, and now, Frank Miller's full Gucci ad has hit the net:

Thanks again to MTV Splashpage.

Canon outs the S95, successor to the S90

2010-08-20T11:33:00.003+08:00

Featured in this article by Engadget, the successor to the popular S90 model with the famed f2.0 lens has now been released to the media.
Advantages of this model seem to be:

a new high dynamic range (HDR) mode, 720p video recording, and mini HDMI for throwing that video up to the living room flat screen. the S95 is also the first PowerShot to feature Hybrid IS image stabilization to help with macro shots.

It retains the 2 control rings of the previous model, and still does not zoom much. But going by the S90's standards, if zooming is not your thing, the camera will probably be all you need and more.. But don't quote me on this, let's wait for the reviews to come.

Thor 101: Get to know Thor's allies!

2010-08-20T11:00:00.001+08:00

This article by MTV Splashpage highlights Thor's allies in the comics, who will also be appearing in the film. Good for a brushup on the who's who, in preparation for the upcoming movie.

Frank Miller Directs a Gucci Ad

2010-08-20T10:54:00.001+08:00

This is a trailer of Frank Miller's next directorial project after The Spirit - a Gucci ad.. starring Chris Evans (The First Avenger).

Via MTV Splashpage.

GPS-Controlled Camera Copter provides endless opportunities!

2010-08-19T11:23:00.002+08:00

This is one amazing camera platform!

Canon 5D Mark II Aerial Drone - Autonomous GPS Position Hold from perspectiveAerials on Vimeo.

Say you are on the ground at a natural disaster site (or perhaps BP’s heavies are trying to prevent you from grabbing your shot). You fire up the four-rotor copter and fly your camera into position. Hit a switch and the GPS-control kicks in. Combined with the inherent stability of a quadrocopter and its gyroscopes, the platform stays exactly where it is, even in wind.

The photographer can now drop the remote and concentrate on taking photos or video. A live video-feed is sent back from the camera to an 8-inch LCD-screen for composition, and a three-axis gimbal, controlled by another remote, allows the camera to be swung independently into position. This allows the photographer to capture shots otherwise impossible to get, or too dangerous to shoot by hand. It could also give amazing perspectives on sports games (although we guess it could all be brought down by an unlucky football).

And when you’re done, you just hit the “home” button and the camera will fly itself right back to you. But there’s more: Are you an indie-filmmaker looking to add some expensive looking boom-shots and fly-bys to your movie?

From Wired Gadget Lab

Check out the full article at Wired Gadget Labs for the 2nd video that demonstrates some of the image stabilization technology used to keep the DSLR steady!

New DC Universe Online trailer: Acrophobia

2010-08-19T10:43:00.002+08:00

For the upcoming MMO DC Universe Online. Features some weapons - dual-wield guns and swords.

Via MTV Splashpage.

Samsung Galaxy GPS issues

2010-08-18T14:26:00.001+08:00

Engadget sums up the GPS woes for Samsung's Galaxy series of smartphones into 2 problems.

1) Turn on Use Wireless Networks option (apparently a new Google mandate that phones have it off at the start).

2) Wait for an update which should hit next month.

And the GPS woes will be over. *crosses fingers*

The problem at hand is that users of these phones are having problems triangulating their location on Google maps for instance. This is exacerbated when they are indoors or have a roof over their heads.

Read about it here.