Canon Powershot SD970IS

The 2009 launched Powershot series, Canon PowerShot SD970IS offers "ultimate" in design and feature-set to the consumers. The camera comes fully loaded with 12.1-Megapixels for amazing resolution and editing, plus a 5x Optical Zoom lens with Optical Image Stabilization, all with easy viewing on a large 3.0-inch PureColor LCD II screen.

Additional features found on the PowerShot SD970 IS Digital ELPH Camera include Smart AUTO, Blink Detection Technology, Active Display and 720p HD Movie Mode with built-in HDMI connector to view photos and videos on an HDTV. What's more, the PowerShot SD970 IS Digital ELPH Camera uses advanced features such as Zoom Blur and Creative Light Effect to produce fun and original effects with the camera. Zoom Blur allows the user to zoom during exposure, thus providing a haze-like effect to the image, while Creative Light Effect allows the user to shoot pictures by converting the light from light bulbs and sparks from fireworks into various shapes, such as stars and hearts.

The PowerShot SD970 IS Digital ELPH Camera is scheduled to be available in mid-April for an estimated retail price of $379.99.

Windows Mobile 6.5 now official

Windows Mobile 6.5 is now official. The latest rendition of Microsoft's mobile platform puts an emphasis on touch-friendliness with a honeycomb-style main menu that the company says is easier to finger than a traditional grid layout; a new lock screen that can be slid on different alerts to automatically call up texts, voice mails, and so on; a thoroughly-restyled cut of Internet Explorer Mobile that features a touchable zoom slider and frequently-used commands; redesigned menus that don't need a stylus to actuate; fingerable home and contacts screens, and more. It's not the thorough gutting of the platform many were hoping for, but for anyone thinking that Windows Mobile 6.1 can stand another facelift without ending up looking like Joan Rivers, 6.5's clearly your baby. Sadly, Microsoft's saying that no devices in the market today will receive official 6.5 updates, but don't pull out your wallets just yet, though -- the first devices with Windows Mobile 6.5 preinstalled should be available in the fourth quarter of the year.

Watch a slideshow at engadget.com here.

[via Engadget.com ]

LG Arena KM900

Olympus Mju Tough series

Olympus has introduced a new range of Mju Tough compact cameras in January 2009. Olympus’ new range is freezeproof, waterproof and shockproof and will be renamed from Mju SW to Mju Tough .

“Since some of our cameras even go beyond shockproof and waterproof – certain models are freezeproof and crushproof as well – we needed a name that was more reflective of the true nature of the SW series. The Mju TOUGH brand lets our customers know what these cameras truly have to offer: strength that’s always ready to go, even in the most extreme conditions”. explained Miquel Angel Garcia, Managing Director Marketing at Olympus Imaging Europa GmbH.

2012 - A target date for universal cellphone charger

The GSM Association has now announced that it and 17 of its partner companies are indeed working on a universal cellphone charger, and that they plan to have a common format in place by 2012. That rather ambitious date will be a bit easier to meet considering the group's choice of connector, micro-USB, which has already gained quite a bit of acceptance as a common format. The use of micro-USB apparently won't be firm requirement by 2012, however, with the GSMA simply saying that the "majority" of new phones sold by then will support what they're describing as the universal charging solution (or UCS), which itself will have to meet a number of strict requirements in order to be broadly compatible. Of course, while everyone including the likes of Nokia, Motorola, LG, Samsung, and Sony Ericsson have signed on with the GSMA, there are a few big names absent, not the least of which, unsurprisingly, is Apple, so there's certainly still quite a ways to go before we have a truly universal standard.

Canon Powershot D10 - The Waterproof, Shockproof, Freezproof

Canon has launched the PowerShot D10, its first waterproof digital compact. It is claimed to be waterproof up to 10 meters, freeze proof up to -10 degrees, shockproof when dropped from a height of 1.22 meters and dust proof. In addition, there are a range of optional protective accessories available. The camera has a 12.1MP sensor, 3x optical zoom and a 2.5" LCD, and includes Smart Auto Mode, Face Select & Track, Blink Detection and Face Self-timer.

Incredible 12.1 Megapixel resolution is captured by the camera’s sensor, allowing the freedom to crop or enlarge images while retaining outstanding image detail. The 3x zoom lens offers a range of versatile framing options, with Image Stabilizer preventing camera-shake from causing unwanted blur. This is particularly useful when participating in the high-movement activities for which the camera is designed.

Specs

• Waterproof (to 10m), shockproof (1.22m), freeze-proof (-10°C), dust-proof digital camera
• 12.1 Megapixels
• 3.0x optical zoom with optical Image Stabilizer
• Smart Auto mode with Scene Detection Technology
  
• DIGIC 4 for ultra-fast response, superb image quality and intelligent
• Exceptionally bright 2.5” PureColor LCD II with 2mm protective shield
• Combats blur with IS and Motion Detection Technology
• People shots made easy with Face Detection Technology, Face Select & Track and Blink Detection - plus FaceSelf-Timer and Auto Red-Eye Correction technologies
• Optional accessory system includes Shoulder & Neck Strap Set and Carabiner Strap*** plus Front Cover Set
• Range of shooting modes and Special Scene modes
• 30fps VGA movies

Skype 4.0 released

Skype has launched version 4.0 for Windows offering full-screen video calling, a new built-in bandwidth manager that optimizes calls in relation to your connection, a new audio codec which promises wideband audio quality using 50% less bandwidth than required by previous versions, plus a number of changes designed to make the user experience easier.

The changes to service include making it easier to start a face-to-face video call, a management system that makes the most of low-bandwidth connections and for those on 400 Kb/s or higher (plus a dual-core processor PC and a High Quality Video webcam), video at up to 30-frames-per-second.

On the audio side there's improved quality with less bandwidth plus "crystal clear, richer and warmer" super wideband audio when using a high quality broadband connection. Skype says that its bandwidth managing system also assists in getting the most reliable sound from your connection by interacting with the codec to adjust to fluctuations.

Usability improvements include easier headset, microphone and webcam set-up, a new Conversations Tab for tracking of multiple conversations and a choice of two different views - a single window "Default View" or a or Compact View in which you can resize conversation into separate windows.

[via Gizmag]

Qualcomms new chipset targetting sub $150 handsets

According to a press release from the company. The new platform -- known as the MSM7227 -- is designed with higher-power, lower-cost handsets in mind, offering HSDPA / HSUPA radios, a 600MHz CPU, 320MHz application DSP, 400MHz modem processor, hardware-accelerated 3D graphics, Bluetooth 2.1, and GPS support integrated in a 12mm x 12mm chipset. The MSM7227 can also supposedly handle 8 megapixel camera and 30 FPS WVGA encoding / decoding with ease all in a 12 by 12 millimeter footprint, and is capable of supporting Android, S60, Windows Mobile, and BREW platforms.

“We see a significant opportunity to bring the best features of today's Smartphones to the mass-market segment,” said Alex Katouzian, vice president of product management, Qualcomm CDMA Technologies. “Our new MSM7227 chipset offers manufacturers an attractive blend of performance and price, software re-use from the prior MSM7xxx-series products, and support for the industry's leading mobile operating systems.”

The MSM7227 chipset is sampling now and commercial Smartphones based on the chip are expected to launch later this year.

Coming soon ... Palm Pre with WebOS

That's Palm pre the next exciting launch of Palm. Another new expectation about the Palm pre is it's completely original operating system called webOS which incorporates some pretty heady ideas about what a mobile phone can do.

The specs would look like

• 3.1-inch touch screen (320 x 480)
• 3 megapixel camera with LED flash
• IM/SMS/MMS messaging support
• Bluetooth 2/1+EDR and AD2P
• 3G EVDO Rev A
• 8GB on-board storage
• microUSB port
• USB mass storage support
• Bluetooth/USB tethering
• "Synergy" synchronization pulls data from your online/offline mail and social networking accounts
• Built-in support for wireless charging with optional "Touchstone" charger
• Copy and paste support
• GPS with turn-by-turn navigation
• TI's OMAP3430 System-on-Chip (SoC) running at an as-yet-unannounced clockspeed (up to 1GHz)
• Slide-out QWERTY keyboard
• Removable battery
• E-mail: Microsoft Outlook/Microsoft Direct Push and POP3/IMAP support
• Video: MPEG-4, H.263, H.264
• Audio: MP3, AAC, AAC+, WAV
• Wireless: 802.11b/g

The casing of the phone is made from sleek, glossy plastic, and the 3.1-inch touchscreen is adores the face of the device, just like the iPhone or Touch Diamond. The phone has a bit of a curve to its body both in the back and around the sides, but would easily slip into a pocket. When you slide out the QWERTY keyboard, it has an almost curved banana-like shape to it, curving slightly to meet the contours of your hand and face. As you might expect, it feels great in the hand -- it's slightly smaller than an iPhone when closed, slightly larger when open, and roughly the same width.

On the bottom half of the phone below the screen is a black "gesture area" used for finger and thumb swipes. In the center of that space is a small metallic ball, which looks like a movable trackball, but is actually just a button. It's used to call up one of the most important parts of the UI, the "cards," but not much else. The black space is dotted with soft LED lights that glow when you swipe your finger across it -- a nice touch.

The screen itself is a sensitive capacitive touchscreen, which is as responsive (if not more) than the iPhone's display. The resolution is the same as Apple's device (480 x 320), though due to its smaller size, it has slightly higher pixel density. Colors looked bright and clear, and overall the screen was sharp and easy to read. The high gloss may cause issues in the sun, but most modern touchscreen phones seem to deal with the problem, and we expect no less from this one.

The phone will be released in at least two versions to start. The first, a Sprint exclusive, sports EV-DO Rev. A and 802.11b/g, as well as Bluetooth 2.1 with EDR and A2DP; the second model will get 3G GSM in place of EV-DO for sale in other parts of the world. Like the iPhone, it also touts a light sensor, proximity sensor, and accelerometer. One critical thing to note for business users and frequent flyers: the Sprint version of the phone -- likely the first to be released -- will not be a global phone, meaning it can't be used on GSM networks overseas.

Fujifilm Budget Compact Digicam A150 and A100

Fujifilm has announced the new A series compact cameras A150 and A100. These camera models may be extremely easy to use, but no compromises have been made on functionality. Both models feature a core specification of 10 Megapixels, high sensitivity settings up to ISO 1600 which means that even in challenging low-light conditions, such as cloudy and rainy weather the image quality still shines through. Fujifilm’s famous Face Detection technology ensures that facial features remain sharp and beautifully exposed - it’s so clever that it even instantly removes horrible red-eye. A value-range compact camera, the A100 and A150 also include Picture Stabilisation technology enabling you to say goodbye to blurry, fuzzy images, and say hello to pin-sharp, crystal clear images at the touch of a button. The A100 and A150 both include a high quality Fujinon 3x zoom, with an added 5.7x digital zoom. Combined, they offer an impressive and versatile 17.1x total zoom range.The A150 has a slightly bigger 3.0 inch LCD, while the A100 makes do with a 2.7 inch LCD unit.

Key specs at a glance:

• 10 Megapixels
• 3x zoom and 5.7 digital zoom – total zoom range of 17.1
• Face Detection technology with automatic red-eye removal
• ISO 1600 sensitivity
• Picture Stabilisation mode
• Movie Mode with sound
• Powered by two AA batteries
• 14 scene modes
• A150 – 3” LCD screen
• A100 – 2.7” LCD screen
• 23mm thin

Panasonic Lumix DMC FS25

The 12.1 megapixel DMC-FS25 is stylish, sophisticated and packed with features – whilst remaining committed to ease of use even for beginners. Boasting a 29mm wide angle Leica DC lens with 5x optical zoom, Intelligent Auto and a vertical grip for extra comfort– the FS25 is stylish, easy to use and feature packed.

Intelligent Auto mode is further advanced with the inclusion of AF tracking and Intelligent Exposure feature for the DMC-FS25 and digital red-eye correction is also integrated in the Face Detection.

The 12.1-megapixel DMC- FS25 packages a 29mm wide-angle Leica DC VARIO-ELMAR lens with 5x optical zoom into a slim, compact body. Comprising 7 elements in 6 groups, including 3 aspherical lenses with 4 aspherical surfaces, this advanced lens unit realizes the outstandingly slim and compact body yet passing Leica's stringent standards to deliver an exceptional optical performance.

Featured in the DMC- FS25, the multi-task image-processing Venus Engine IV supports a super-fast response time. The shutter release time lag is as short as 0.006 seconds and the camera's quick response makes it easier to capture sudden, spur-of-the-moment photo opportunities.

Nikon Coolpix P90

The P90 has an immensely powerful 24x optical zoom that offers the 35mm-equivalent of a 26mm wide-angle to a 624mm telephoto and is capable of shooting pictures as close up as 1cm.

High-speed continuous shooting up to 45 shots at 15 fps means it is an ideal camera for sports photography and can even record images before you’ve pressed the button. Add to this its 12.1 effective megapixels and sensitivity up to ISO 6400, and it is clear why it excels in almost any shooting situation.

Users can set it to full automatic or various manual settings using the camera’s four exposure modes (PSAM) and compose their ideal picture using the electronic viewfinder. The camera offers many other Nikon-quality features such as four Anti-blur technologies, Auto Scene and Face Priority AF, recognising up to twelve faces. It also includes the latest features, such as Smile Mode and Blink Warning, Nikon’s proprietary D-Lighting for optimising contrast and Quick Retouch. The camera can also record movies, including time-lapse movies and its 3-inch vari-angle LCD screen makes taking pictures easy even in challenging situations.

The P90 comes supplied with a USB cable, audio/video cable, strap and a software suite for COOLPIX CD-ROM. It will be available in Black All Nikon cameras come with 2GB free online image storage at Nikon’s my Picturetown service on mypicturetown.com.

Nikon Coolpix P90 specifications

Sensor	• 1/2.33 " Type CCD • 12.1 million effective pixels • 12.7 million effective pixels
Lens	• 24x Zoom-Nikkor (26 - 624 mm equiv.) • F2.8- F5.0
Image dimensions	• 4000 x 3000 (12M) • 3264 x 2448 (8M) • 2592 x 1944 (5M) • 2048 x 1536 (3M) • 1600 x 1200 (2M) • 1280 x 960 (1M) • 1024×768 (PC) • 640 x 480 (TV) • 3984 x 2656 (3:2) • 3968 x 2232 (16:9) • 2992 x 2992 (1:1)
Movie Modes	• 640 x 480 • 320 x 240
Image stabilization	Optical
Digital zoom	Up to 4x
Focus	Contrast-detect TTL AF
Focus distance	• 10 cm to infinity (∞) • Macro close-up mode: 1 cm to infinity (∞)
ISO sensitivity	• Full res: ISO 64, 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200, 6400
Scene Modes	• Portrait • Panorama Assist • Close Up • Sunset • Night Landscape • Fireworks Show • Night Portrait • Copy • Beach/Snow • Dusk/Dawn • Museum • Landscape • Back Light • Food • Party
LCD monitor	• 3.0-in tilting LCD • 230,000-dot
Other features	• Smile Timer • Blink Warning
Storage	• SD / SDHC card (optional) • Approx 50 MB internal memory
Power	• Rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL5 • Approx 230 shots • AC Adapter EH-62A
Supplied Software	Software Suite CD-ROM
Supplied Accessories	• Li-ion Rechargeable Battery EN-EL5 • Battery Charge MH-61 • USB Cable UC-E6 • Audio/Video Cable EG-CP14 • Strap AN-CP18 • Lens Cap LC-CP19 • Software Suite for COOLPIX CD-ROM
Weight (no batt)	Approx. 400 g
Dimensions	Approx.83 x 114 x 99 mm (3.3 x 4.5 x 3.9 in)

LG Arena KM900

That's LG Arena KM900 pic leaked in Netherland retailers brochure. The phone seems to be touch screen and resembles to Samsung Omnia. It has been rumoured to be in production and due to be launched this march this year in Europe.

From the news floating on various gadget tracking websites, LG Arena KM900 will be a full touchscreen media handset in metallic housing, 5 megapixel camera (DVD quality video recording), and, probably Divx playback. It will also have Wi-Fi support, built-in GPS and an “innovative S-Class 3D” interface.

So is that going to be i-Phonish? Anyway nowadays every phone looks and offers the same!...

Wait for the price and availability, and you know it better.

Kodak Zx1HD Digital Video Camera

Kodak introduced the new KODAK Zx1 Digital Video Camera last month, a compact and rugged digital device that enables "go-anywhere" High Definition recording.

The Zx1 allows users to shoot and share high-quality video quickly and simply, with 720p HD video capture - at 60 or 30 fps - a vibrant 2.0-inch LCD screen, and built-in software for easy editing and sharing of content to YouTube and other social media and networking websites.

People want to capture moments on the go and quickly and easily share them.

The KODAK Zx1 Digital Video Camerais designed to meet these needs at the touch of a button -- no lens cap, dials to turn or settings to adjust. The new camera's advanced feature set includes:

• Pocketable 720p HD video capture at 60 fps
• Weather-resistant design that stands up to splashes, dirt and more - IP43 certified;
• High-quality video capture in bright light or low light - from the beach, to the nightclub;
• Easy editing, personalization, and uploading to YouTube or other Internet sites with built-in video software, ArcSoft Media Impressions for Kodak;
• Expandable SD/SDHC Card slot for memory cards up to 32 GB, that can record up to 10 hours of HD video*;
• Easy HDTV playback with included HDMI cable;
• Sensitive, low distortion microphone that provides crisp, clear audio;
• Pre-charged AA Ni-MH rechargeable batteries and battery charger included, saving money and avoiding waste from used batteries;
• Vibrant 2.0" LCD;
• Available in five colors: black, red, pink, blue and yellow**;
• Remote control compatible (remote control sold separately).

Kingston announces high capacity SD cards

Kingston Digital, Inc., the Flash memory affiliate of Kingston Technology Company, Inc., announced that it is releasing a line of SDHC Video cards in the United States for use in digital camcorders. The SDHC Video cards carry plenty of recording time and are available in 60 minute (4GB), 120 minute (8GB) and 240 minute (16GB) capacities.

The Kingston SDHC Video cards feature a Class 4 speed rating, which guarantees a minimum data transfer rate of 4MB/sec., making them ideal for use in the latest digital camcorders and for fast transfer from card to PC.

Kingston SDHC Video Card Features and Specifications:

• Capacities¹: 60 min. (4GB); 120 min. (8GB); 240 min. (16GB²)
• Dimensions: 0.94" x 1.26" x 0.08" (24mm x 32mm x 2.1mm)
• Weight: 0.09ozs (2.5g)
• High-Speed Class Rating: Class 4: 4MB/sec.
• Operating Temperature: -13°F to 185°F (-25°C to 85°C)
• Storage Temperature: -40°F to 185°F (-40°C to 85°C)
• Voltage: 3.3v
• Compliant: with SDHC host devices; not compatible with standard SD-enabled devices/readers
• File Format: FAT32
• Reliable: lifetime warranty³
• Simple: as easy as plug and play

Nikon announces Coolpix L100, L20, L19

Nikon has announced the L100, L20 and L19 budget cameras. The L100 is a superzoom with 15x optical zoom (28-420mm equiv) and 10MP sensor, in macro mode you can even capture objects from as close up as 1 cm.. It includes features such as Image Stabilization, D-lighting and a Sports Continuous mode that allows shooting at up to 13 frames per second.

The L19 and L20 are more conventional compacts point and shoot with 8MP and a 2.7" LCD and 10MP and a 3.0" LCD respectively. They share a 3.6X zoom lens. These compacts have several features that ensure smooth and comfortable shooting, such as Full-Auto Mode, Smile Mode, Scene Auto Selector and Blink Warning.

The L20 is available in black metallic and deep red, the L19 in bright silver or shiny pink.

The L100, L20 and L19 come with a strap, AA-batteries, USB and audio/video cables, and the COOLPIX software suite.