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    Making calls more personal with Leadtek videophone

    Gadgets Team
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    Making calls more personal with Leadtek videophone

    When Beyonce collaborated with Lady Gaga, I hadn’t known anyone else who had ever asked a person to “catch them on their videophones.” But with the Leadtek AMOR8210 Videophone, I think even I would want to be “caught” on one.

    With a large 7-inch touchscreen display, built-in speakers, microphones, and a built-in WiFi module for portability, chatting with family, friends, and colleagues takes on a more personal note which may even encourage better understanding and communication as opposed to just texting or calling. It comes with VoIP telephoning capabilities as well as the traditional landline hookup. The Leadtek AMOR8210 also comes with an array of features which include entertainment, health care, security surveillance, media player, 3-way video conference call and location base service (LBS) integration.

    Gadgets is hiring!

    Gadgets Team
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    Want to get in the crazy/awesome world of publishing? Well you’re in luck, as Gadgets Magazine, the premier tech-lifestyle magazine in the country is hiring! We’re looking for:

    ADVERTISING ASSISTANT

    BASIC FUNCTION:
    The Advertising Assistant is primarily responsible in obtaining sales for the Ad pages of magazine He/She handles the procurement of sales leads, product presentation, account servicing and closing deals and ensures that all documents relative to the client’s advertising placement are complete and satisfactorily executed on time.
    QUALIFICATIONS:
    • Graduate of any 4-year course;
    • At least 1 year experience in sales – preferably with exposure in publishing;
    • Excellent written and oral communication skills, and inter-personal relations;
    • Service-oriented; charismatic, articulate, creative, sociable, committed to excellence, highly driven and energetic, morally sound, stylish;
    • Pleasing personality and appearance.

    You may personally bring your resume with photo to:


    GREAT MINDS MEDIA, INC.
    9B Evening News St. West Triangle, QC
    Tel. No. 332-4004 or email cgiray(at)gadgetsmagazine(dawt)com(dawt)ph

     

    Man puts cut up Pentium 3 under the microscope, reveals all kinds of geekery

    Gadgets Team
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    Man puts cut up Pentium 3 under the microscope, reveals all kinds of geekery
    Via sciencystuff.com

    We talk about processors a whole lot on this website, but truth be told, we haven’t really taken a close look at one. Sure, we’ve handled processors dozens of times before, especially when we build new PCs, but we really haven’t seen what’s inside of the things. Well, one man that had access to both a regular microscope and an scanning electron microscope has taken the task at heart, and butchered a Pentium 3 to see what lies beneath all the silicone.

    Via sciencystuff.com

    While he doesn’t reveal anything mind blowing (anyone can research about chip structure and makeup in Wikipedia), it’s still fascinating to see what the actual transistors look like, and geeks like us start to appreciate the engineering prowess that it took to create such mindblowingly small connections and transistors. You can catch the entire article from the link below.

    Source: Sciencystuff.com

     

    Raspberry Pi caught running Quake 3, classrooms will never be the same

    Gadgets Team
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    Raspberry Pi caught running Quake 3, classrooms will never be the same

    We know, we’ve covered the Raspberry Pi twice now, but we simply can’t stop giving love to the $25 linux-capable miniature PC, especially when it pulls off awesome things like running Quake 3. While the game is pretty ancient by today’s standards, the mere fact that it’s able to run it using extremely limited hardware (remember, it’s designed to run educational apps, not gaming grade graphics) makes it more awesome than it already is. While there are some framerate issues evident, the team is confident that it’s going to be able to fix all of that come release time, and maybe connect a couple of Rasberry Pis for some good ol’ fashion LAN deathmatch.

    Source: Rasberry Pi Website

    Lenovo veteran becomes AMD president and CEO

    Gadgets Team
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    Lenovo veteran becomes AMD president and CEO

    7 months after the ouster of AMD’s previous CEO, Dirk Meyer, AMD now has a new head. Lenovo veteran and former COO Rory Read takes the over the reins of AMD, becoming its CEO, President and board member. Read joins AMD from Lenovo Group, Ltd., where he was most recently President and Chief Operating Officer responsible for leading day-to-day global operations while overseeing the development and implementation of the company’s growth strategy.

    Read has a big job ahead of him, and we don’t envy him one bit – he’ll need to figure out a way for AMD to narrow the gap between it’s closest rival, Intel, and find a way to get into the tablet and mobile space which has proven to be highly lucrative (just ask Qualcomm and NVIDIA).

    “I’m very pleased to be joining AMD at this important time in its history. AMD is a true innovator and is uniquely positioned to lead the industry forward, delivering the next big thing both within the PC ecosystem and beyond,” said Read. “AMD has strong momentum and the opportunity to continue profitably gaining share based on its highly differentiated products, solid financial foundation, and passionate and committed employees. I’m excited to be joining AMD’s employees as we write the next chapter not just for the company, but for the industry and consumers around the world.”

    Source: AMD

     

    Acer posts first loss in a decade

    Gadgets Team
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    Acer posts first loss in a decade

    Seems like HP had the right idea when it ditched its PC division after all – prolific Taiwanese manufacturer Acer has posted its first loss in a decade, citing that making a full-year profit will be “impossible”, according to a report in Bloomberg. The company posted a NT$6.8 billion ($234 million) second quarter loss, which is a far cry from the NT$3.6 billion profit a year earlier. The loss in profits is party due to the miserable global economy and increasing competition from Apple’s iPad offerings. Acer has also cut jobs and has taken losses on products in storage because of declining sales.

    According to Gartner, Acer fell from the number two spot (next to HP) in Q2 2010 to number four. And although tablets are holding the public’s fascination, J.T. Wang, chairman of Acer said that “the fever for tablets is going down and the notebook is regaining the interest of the consumer.”

    Source: Bloomberg

     

    TalkO’clock: an app for that wake-up call

    Gadgets Team
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    TalkO’clock: an app for that wake-up call

    I’ve recently tried more pleasing ways to be awakened back to life, even to go as far as listening through the entire tone collection on my phone, and even recording a personal voice message trying to convince me to wake up so I can get to work and get paid. My sister, on the other hand, wakes up to the strangely soothing voice of Penelope Cruz taken from the movie “Vanilla Sky” while my husband uses this unforgivable horn sound that usually wakes me up cranky and hitting him to turn it off.

    It seems everyone would like to find a way to make the disruption of comfortable slumber more tolerable, especially for the perpetual “snoozers” like myself. So of course, if you need it, there’s a probably an app for it. And that app is called the TalkO’clock. The app allows you to be awakened by a complete stranger (with the gender of your choice). These volunteers call you up in hopes that you won’t be as harsh to shut them up as you would with your own alarm clock. But if no volunteer is available, a CallO’Bot will give you a ring to assure you of a punctual day. It may seem a little creepy to have a stranger call you but don’t fret. Phone numbers aren’t shown and connections are made anonymously.

    Now, you just have to choose a pleasant-sounding ringtone for when you get that wake-up call.

    You can use talkO’clock either by downloading the iPhone/Android application, or through their website.

     

    Search for 2011-2012 Car of the Year-Philippines Launched

    Press Release
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    Search for 2011-2012 Car of the Year-Philippines Launched

    Car Awards Group Inc. (CAGI), the award-giving body composed of motoring journalists, launched their search for the 2011-2012 Car of the Year-Philippines (COTY-PH) last 26 August 2011, at an official launch night held at the Congo Grille El Pueblo in Ortigas Center.

    CAGI president Ferman Lao noted during his announcement that:  “Despite the slowdown in 2011 car sales after last year’s record highs, prospects for the Philippine automotive industry continue to be bright.  With automotive manufacturers and distributors bringing in the latest models and offering a wider range of product offerings, Filipino consumers now have more options to choose from.  From Chinese car brands offering more affordable entry level vehicles to European luxury brands at the other end of the spectrum, there is certainly a car to match every buyer’s taste and budget.  I believe that through COTY-PH, motoring journalists can provide useful information to Filipino consumers to guide their purchase decisions.”

    This year’s COTY testing is open to all new passenger cars and commercial vehicles introduced in the Philippine market from 01 November 2010 to 31 October 2011.  All eligible entries will be subjected to both qualitative and technical evaluation.

    Qualitative evaluation examines the following vehicle attributes:  (1) Aesthetics (interior/exterior); (2) ergonomics; (3) NVH or noise, vibration and harshness; (4) ride comfort; and (5) space.  The qualitative evaluation process is open to all CAGI members and will be held at the Ortigas Home Depot parking lot over  6 weekends in September and October 2011.

    For the rigorous technical testing, which will be held at the Clark International Speedway in late October 2011, a select team will conduct instrumented tests on the following parameters:  (1) Acceleration, 0-100kph in seconds; (2) Braking distance, 100-0kph in meters; and (3) Handling, through a 120m chicane course.

    Specific award categories vary from year to year, depending on the eligible vehicles.  Typically, qualified entries are classified by:

    • Size: sub-compact, compact, mid-size, etc.

    • Function: sedan, crossover, SUV, pickup, van, truck, etc.

    • Drivetrain:  2WD, 4WD

    • Price: basic, premium, luxury, etc.

    Winners of the 2011-2012 COTY-PH will be announced in April 2012, with the awarding ceremonies to be held during the Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) at the World Trade Center.

    The Car Awards Group Inc. (CAGI) is an award-giving body composed of motoring journalists.  Every year since 2004, CAGI invites automotive manufacturers and distributors to submit their new vehicle models for technical and qualitative testing.  Test results are summarized and subjected to external audit.  Awards are given in various categories, with the most prestigious award being the Car of the Year Award.

    Razer unleashes PC Gaming monster Blade

    Gadgets Team
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    5
    Razer unleashes PC Gaming monster Blade

    Remember the manifesto that Razer published in the Wall Street Journal a few days ago? Well, it seems like it was all a big tease for the company’s latest product: the Blade gaming notebook. On paper, it seems like Razer’s managed to achieve the holy grail of gaming notebook design: fit hardware that’s powerful enough to run all the latest games into a chassis that’s thin and light enough to be used a regular notebook. The Blade is only 0.88-inches thin and weighs in at 6.97 lbs. Not bad for a gaming PC that packs a 17-inch screen.

    Hardware-wise, Razer brought the big guns for the Blade – 2.8GHz Intel Core i7 2640M processor, 8GB 1333MHz DDR3 memory, NVIDIA GeForce GT 555M with NVIDIA Optimus Technology and a 320GB HDD. One of the interesting things that the Blade brings to the table is the Switchblade UI – comprised of 10 dynamic adaptive tactile keys for easier access of in-game commands, and an LCD capable of two modes: one mode that displays in-game information when a mouse is in use; and another mode that functions as an ultra-sensitive, multi-touch panel designed for gaming on the go.

    The Razer Blade will be available in the fourth quarter of this year, and will carry a whopping $2799 price tag (about Php 120357 before taxes).

    Smart partners with Opera Software to deliver Smart-Opera Mini browser for Smart subscribers

    Gadgets Team
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    Smart partners with Opera Software to deliver Smart-Opera Mini browser for Smart subscribers

    Smart has announced it’s renewed its partnership with Opera Software (the creators of the Opera web browser) to bring a customized version of the company’s Opera Mini browser to Smart subscribers. The new version of the software is compatible with more than 3,000 mobile device models currently in the local market. The new version of the browser has a number of improvements, including improved page scrolling, a new, intuitive user interface, pinch-to-zoom (on supported devices), a button to share content to social networks and other new features.

    “While our network and system are ready to provide data services, the challenge lies in the devices through which our subscribers may access the Internet,” said Orlando Vea, co-founder and Chief Wireless Advisor of Smart. “Opera Mini on a Smart cellphone can help introduce the mobile Internet experience to our subscribers, as it allows the Web to ‘fit’ perfectly and comfortably into any cellphone.”

    The new Smart-Opera Mini 4.3 and Smart-Opera Mini 6.1 browser are now available for free to Smart subscribers throughhttp://m.opera.com. For more details on Smart’s ALWAYS ON plans, go to http://m.smart.com.ph/volumeplans.

    App to help students buy-and-sell textbooks

    Gadgets Team
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    2
    App to help students buy-and-sell textbooks

    This is why I truly believe students have it so much easier these days. Back in my day (which wasn’t really all that long ago —just goes to show how fast we’re advancing), textbooks took tedious trips to the mall and bookstore, hoping to score a bargain at the local “book sale” or finding a fellow course-mate who could lend you the books (so you can photocopy all 500 pages). But now, all you need is your phone or mp3 player and you have another means of helping you get that degree.

    The Amazon Student App, available on the iPhone and iPod Touch, allows college students buy and even sell texbooks. You can check prices by scanning the barcode and you can trade in your stuff and turn them into Amazon Gift Cards. And with Amazon Prime shipping, you also get free two-day shipping for six months.

    Now maybe I can finally buy my own copy of C. Wright Mills “The Sociological Imagination.”

     

    Canon tops local inkjet market in first half of 2011

    Gadgets Team
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    Canon tops local inkjet market in first half of 2011

    Pats on the back all around for the local Canon team. According to research firm IDC, Canon’s PIXMA line of inkjet printers dominated the local inkjet category with an overall market share of 35% from January to June 2011. Breaking down the report, Canon managed to nab the single function printer category with a 43% market share, and multifunction inkjet printer segment with a  28% share. During the period, Canon PIXMA iP 2770 was the top selling single function printer in the market. The PIXMA iP2772 and PIXMA MP258 All-in-One Printer were also among the top selling products.

    “We are grateful to consumers for choosing Canon PIXMA,” said Jill Santiago, CMPI marketing manager for consumer systems products. “Apart from promos and service, Canon PIXMA has always been the top-of-mind printer brand because it prints crisp, realistic photos and documents at very competitive costs.”

     

    Valve announces Counter-Strike: Global Offensive for the Mac, PC, XBOX 360 and PS3, cross platform play possible

    Gadgets Team
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    Valve announces Counter-Strike: Global Offensive for the Mac, PC, XBOX 360 and PS3, cross platform play possible

    It’s official – Valve is updating the incredibly popular Counter-Strike franchise (which debuted 12 years ago as a mod for the original Half Life) by way of Counter-Strike: Global Offensive. The new game will feature new and updated maps of the iconic game,  new weapons and new play modes. According to a report in Kotaku (who manged to grab an hour of playtime at the Valve offices, the lucky gits) the game will launch with five new maps for the iconic game mode, Bomb/Defuse and two for Hostage Rescue.

    Counter-Strike: Global Offensive will, for the first time in the franchise, feature cross platform play between the PS3 (via the PlayStation Move controller), Mac and PC, and will have extensive matchmaking capabilities. To be honest, we’re not sure how the whole controller versus keyboard and mouse thing will work out, as any FPS veteran will tell you, playing with the mouse and keyboard is way better than playing with a controller when it comes to FPS games. Nevertheless, the feature sounds cool, if only to pad our K:D ratio once the game is released in 2012.

    It’ll also be interesting to see what route Valve will take when it releases the game – rumor has it it’ll use a Free-to-play model which will be supported by micro transactions but at this point, it’s all speculation. You can see the press release and the intro trailer from the Steam website.

    Source: Steam, Kotaku

    Happy 20th birthday, Linux

    Gadgets Team
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    Happy 20th birthday, Linux


    Created by: MBA Online

    On this date back in 1991, then 22-year old Linux Torvalds posted on Usenet (predecessor to modern internet forums) that he was working on an free operating system, adding that it was just a hobby, won’t be big and professional like gnu. 20 years on, his Linux operating system, while not as prolific on desktops and PCs as Windows or OS X, is powering 30% of tablets and 39% of smartphones today via the Android operating system that’s based on the Linux kernel. Without Linux, Android wouldn’t have been as prolific (and as free) as it is now. Our hat’s off to you Mr. Torvalds!

     

    JPEGmini Reduces Image Size Up to 5X Without Loss in Quality

    Gadgets Team
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    JPEGmini Reduces Image Size Up to 5X Without Loss in Quality

    There’s a new form of image compression out there, and it just might become the format of the future.

    JPEGmini was forged by Isreali startup ICVT, and they have been working hard on harnessing the potential power of the JPEG format. Essentially, what their technology does is  compress the image just until the threshold of where unwanted “artifacts” become visible. 

     

    ICVT says that JPEGmini can compress photos up to 5x without any true loss in quality. The potential advantages of JPEGmini are quite obvious for professional photographers and for those that just want to post and/or email photos to family and friends. To get a better grasp on what it can do for you, the following table illustrates an approximation of file reduction capabilities.

    But number and statistics can be difficult to visualize, so I decided to try it out with one of my photos. I uploaded a photo that was 4272 x 2848, and JPEGmini was able to reduce it by 2.3x

    If you’re still have qualms, you can try JPEGmini for yourself, to witness firsthand what it is capable of.

    Did your photos lose weight?

     

     

    To read the full interview with ICVT, hop on over to Megapixel.co.il
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