Thursday, July 5, 2012

Archos 97 Carbon Android 4.0 Elements Slate Review

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Archos introduced the first in its new Elements line of Google Android-based consumer tablets, a 9.7-inch device priced at $250 and the 16GB Archos 97 Carbon running Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich sports a 5x multi-touch screen, front-facing and rear-facing camera, expandable storage up to 32GB courtesy of its microSD card slot, and a graphics engine capable of decoding full 1080p HD video and playing it on an HDTV via an HDMI port. The tablet is 0.45 inches thick and weighs 1.36 pounds--a little thicker, but lighter, than the new iPad, which measures 0.37 inches thick and weighs 1.44 pounds and the Archos 97 Carbon is a fairly attractive tablet with a brushed aluminum finish on the back. Other features include a front and back camera, 1GB of RAM, full access to Google Play for Android apps, and the Office Suite Viewer preloaded for opening office docs and the single-core 1GHz processor is a disappointment, considering most new tablets have dual- or quad-core processors.



ARCHOS, an award-winning innovator in consumer electronics, is pleased to introduce the ARCHOS 97 carbon, the first of its new tablet range called "ELEMENTS", an entry-level line up of 7, 8, and 9.7 inch tablets that combine ARCHOS design and engineering with full access to Google Play and a full suite of Google apps at an affordable price. Equipped with the latest mobile technology and an elegant aluminum finish, the ARCHOS 97 Carbon is only 21.8 ounces and 0.45" thick. Its sharp and clear IPS multi-touch screen delivers amazing vivid colors and impressive wide viewing angles. For the smoothest interface experience, ARCHOS has powered this tablet with a fast 1GHz processor, 1GB of RAM while running Android 4.0 "Ice Cream Sandwich". Combining very high performance hardware, intuitive software and affordability, this Google Play supported device will be available starting in July 2012 for $229.99 - $249.99 SRP. "We wanted to introduce a new series that not only combines affordability with a new slim design, but features the best that Google has to offer," says Henri Crohas, ARCHOS Founder and CEO. "With the ELEMENTS series we have done just that. It's the perfect balance of hardware, software optimization and content through the Google Play ecosystem."


Key Features:
  • 9.7-inch 5x Multi-Touch Screen with IPS technology
  • Optimized for Google Play: Over 600,000 apps and games, the world's largest collection of eBooks, millions of songs, thousands of movies, and a growing selection of TV shows and magazines
  • A complete media device, the ARCHOS 97 carbon can decode full 1080p HD video and can send a 1080p HD video to an HDTV via the HDMI-out port
  • Stylish design with premium aluminum finish and a 0.45” thickness
  • Front and back camera
  • Includes 16GB of internal flash memory, expandable both via the microSD slot (supporting SDHC cards up to 32GB) or via a USB flash drive in its full-sized USB host port
  • Includes access to Android apps from Google, including Gmail, Google Talk, Google+, Google Maps, YouTube and 5GB of free cloud storage with Google Drive
  • Pre-loaded with Office Suite Viewer for reading office documents, a demo of World of Goo–-the critically acclaimed puzzle game, as well as News Republic and Brief Me to manage your world news and customized social media feeds

Specs:
  • Tablet
  •  
  • Android (Ice Cream Sandwich [4.0])
  •  
  • 9.7 inches
  •  
  • Internal storage (16 GB, Flash),...
  •  
  • 2 megapixels
  • 9.41 x 7.24 x 0.45 in
  •  
  • 1.37 lb
  •  
  • July 5, 2012

General

  • Handheld
  • Tablet
  • Android (Ice Cream Sandwich [4.0])

Input

  • Yes

Networking

  • 802.11 b, g, n (2.4 GHz)
  • WEP, WPA, WPA2

Media

  • Yes
  • FLAC, MP3, OGG, WAV, WMA
  • AVI, h.264 / AVC, MPEG-4
  • BMP, GIF, JPEG, PNG

Camera

  • 2 megapixels
  • Yes

Sync

  • OTA sync

Display

  • 9.7 inches
  • 1024 x 768
  • 131 PPI
  • LCD (Active, Color, Backlit)
  • Capacitive [finger]

Storage

  • Internal storage (16 GB, Flash), Memory card
  • microSD (microSDHC)

Power

  • Rechargeable
  • Li-polymer

Audio

  • 3.5mm

Connections

  • 2.0 (Micro-USB port, USB charging)

Hardware

  • 1 GHz
  • 1 GB

Size & weight

  • 9.41 inches (h)
    7.24 inches (w)
    0.45 inches (d)
  • 1.37 pounds

Pricing & availability

  • Pre-release
  • July 5, 2012
  • $229 USD

Colors

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Skytex Skypad Gemini And Protos Android 4.0 ICS Tablets Review

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Skytex announces Gemini and Protos: ICS tablets that sound like X-Men and the Skypad Gemini is a 7-inch tablet with a $179 price tag and your standard fare of Android features. Inside are a 1.2GHz ARM Cortex-A8 processor, 1GB RAM, 8GB internal storage and a 2-megapixel front-facing camera and the Gemini offers Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, a 3.5mm headphone jack, a 3,000mAh battery, and microSD expansion The Skypad Protos offers a 9.7-inch 1,024x768-pixel IPS display with a 4:3 aspect ratio and both the Skypad Gemini and the Skypad Protos provides users with 5GB of cloud storage and include access to the 1Mobile Market.



SKYTEX Technology Inc., developer of cutting-edge Windows and Android tablets has announced its 9.7-inch SKYPAD Protos (MSRP $279) and 7-inch SKYPAD Gemini (MSRP $179) Android 4.0 tablets will be released in early July. In addition, users will have access to productivity suites, premium and free cloud services including 5GB storage. At the heart of each tablet is a powerful 1.2 GHz Arm Cortex A8 processor paired with a Mali-400 graphics card for superior performance. Features include Bluetooth, 8GB of internal storage and 1GB of RAM that provides smoother navigation, better video streaming, and superior gaming performance, along with access to over 200,000 must-have Android apps through the 1Mobile Market. The SKYPAD Protos 9.7" tablet, available in either glossy black or white, is highlighted by a wide-view IPS screen (4:3 aspect ratio). It houses an extended 6000mAh battery, with an estimated 10-20 hours of continuous web usage, optimized Wi-Fi, a 5MP camera and 2MP front facing webcam. It also supports 1080p HD video and 3D through HDMI, comes with a mini USB port, and micro-SD card slot for up to 32GB for additional storage of favorite games, movies, photos, and documents. The SKYPAD Gemini 7-inch capacitive multi-touch tablet (16:9 aspect ratio) with its rubberized "slip-proof" coating is perfect for gaming & media. Additional features included a 2MP webcam, optimized Wi-Fi, an HDMI output with support for 1080p and 3D through an HDTV, mini USB port, and a micro-SD card slot for up to 32GB of additional storage. For users of SKYTEX Android tablets purchased prior to the availability of its free cloud storage offer, value added apps and productivity suites, they can be downloaded at www.skytex.com.


Speces:
  • Tablet
  •  
  • Android (Ice Cream Sandwich [4.0])
  •  
  • 9.7 inches
  •  
  • Internal storage (8 GB, Flash),...
  •  
  • 5 megapixels
  • Up to 10 hours
  •  
  • July 3, 2012

General

  • Handheld
  • Tablet
  • Android (Ice Cream Sandwich [4.0])

Input

  • Yes

Networking

  • 802.11 b, g, n (2.4 GHz)
  • WEP, WPA, WPA2

Media

  • Yes
  • AAC, MP3, WAV, WMA
  • h.264 / AVC, MPEG-4
  • BMP, GIF, JPEG, PNG

Camera

  • 5 megapixels
  • 2 megapixels

Sync

  • OTA sync

Other features

  • Yes

Display

  • 9.7 inches
  • 1024 x 768
  • 131 PPI
  • Capacitive [finger]

Storage

  • Internal storage (8 GB, Flash), Memory card
  • microSD (microSDHC)

Power

  • Up to 10 hours
  • Rechargeable
  • Li-polymer (6000 mAh capacity)

Audio

  • 3.5mm

Connections

  • 2.0 (Mini-USB port, USB charging)
  • 2.0 + EDR

Hardware

  • 1.2 GHz
  • 1 GB

Pricing & availability

  • Pre-release
  • July 3, 2012

Colors



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Samsung EX2F Smart Camera With World's Brightest Compact Camera Lens Review

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Samsung's dropped an aperture bomb in the shape of the latest Samsung EX2F, the replacement for the high-spec EX1 model, the high-end yet compact EX2F comes kitted out with an impressive array of features and foremost is the 24-80mm f/1.4-2.7 equivalent lens with optical image stabilisation that Samsung claims is the brightest of any compact camera. This 12.4-megapixel CMOS shooter packs an f/1.4-2.7 lens -- quite a feat for any point-and-shoot along with a full-size hot shoe, dual image stabilization, a top ISO setting of 12,800 (extended), a 24-79mm 3.3x lens and a 3-inch swivel VGA-resolution AMOLED display. That's in addition to the full manual shooting mode, RAW option, 1080/30p HD video capture and the standard plethora of WiFi options, including Remote Viewfinder and Auto Backup, there's no hint of pricing or availability, but with that industry-leading f/1.4 lens, pro-level features and AMOLED display, we're certain that the EX2F won't come cheap.



Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd, a global leader in digital media and digital convergence technologies has announced the launch of the EX2F, the latest model in its growing range of Wi-Fi-enabled SMART CAMERAs. Following the success of the EX1 with F1.8 lens, the new model is engineered to deliver super-bright photography thanks to its F1.4 lens, the brightest in any compact camera. The high image and video quality of the EX2F also comes with the advantage of being able to store and share images remotely using Wi-Fi functionality. Encompassing Full Manual Control in a strong but lightweight body, the EX2F is ideal for DSLR-owners looking for more portable equipment to capture images spontaneously and subtly, and for photographers looking for a step-up in quality from their point-and-shoot whilst retaining ease-of-use and portability. The EX2F combines a number of features to deliver incredible picture quality in all conditions. With the segment-leading advanced F1.4 24mm Lens, the wide range of aperture steps delivers clear images and video even in very low light conditions. These are easily controlled using the professional front wheel key and Dual Dials, which enable switching between parameters and modes quickly for greater manual control. The low-light capabilities of the EX2F are also added to by the 1/1.7" 12 Megapixel BSI CMOS sensor, which delivers clear, blur-free images - even when shooting objects in low-light situations. Fusing quality with creativity, 1080/30p Full HD Movie Recording with stereo sound allows users to capture video in high enough quality to enjoy on a Full HD TV. The EX2F also allows still 12 Megapixel photos and video to be captured simultaneously using the Dual Capture feature, so that any scene can be shot as both photo and video. The EX2F's F1.4 24mm wide-angle lens is approximately four times as bright as a F2.8 camera lens. A further development is that the lens unit now consists of eleven elements in nine groups, with four aspherical lenses and two high refractive lenses. Combined, these provide a 20% increase in the amount of light on the sensor, a 20% increase in image quality and a 10% increase in zoom ratio.


The lens on the EX2F also incorporates a Neutral Density (ND) filter, giving the user greater control over exposure time in different conditions and making photos appear more neutral in situations of over-exposure. It also allows for shooting at a very shallow depth of field, so users can isolate their subjects from backgrounds to create stunning portraits. To make bright images clearer, the EX2F also includes Dual IS (OIS and DIS) to minimize the effect of shaking – particularly useful in low-light situations. Housed in a sleek yet durable high-intensity magnesium body, more commonly found on DSLR models, the EX2F combines high-end image quality with convenience and speed. For those accustomed to the level of creative control on DSLRs, the EX2F allows for shooting in RAW mode for professional standard pictures. The EX2F also encompasses Full Manual Control as well as Aperture and Shutter Priority modes. The Dual Dial and front wheel keys also allow users to quickly and easily adjust exposure for effortless pro-style control. This is all combined into a body that is compact and light, making it possible to carry the camera anywhere for spontaneous shots without the complication and intrusiveness of a weighty DSLR. The 3.0-inch Swivel AMOLED display is perfect for lining up great shots and viewing them under any light conditions and does so whilst consuming little battery power. The screen responds swiftly and displays images in high contrast, while the swivel display allows picture-taking from low and high angles – even self-portraits. The screen also incorporates Samsung's Smart Panel user interface, which integrates all parameters into one display for easy control over the end result. The EX2F is the latest in Samsung's SMART CAMERA range of Wi-Fi-enabled cameras, which take the combination of high-quality imaging paired with connectivity to a new level. Wi-Fi connectivity enables the secure storage of images through Auto Backup to a PC or saving to the Cloud. In addition, sharing to social networking sites such as Facebook or Picasa is easy or pictures can be sent via email. The EX2F's Mobile Link opens doors for connectivity with smartphones, without even having to resize images or video. Users can also access the Remote Viewfinder to use their smartphone's screen to frame shots from a variety of angles. Through the SMART LINK button, all these functions can be accessed with one touch for simplified sharing and storage. "We created the EX2F to show that taking great pictures doesn't have to involve carrying a heavy and bulky DSLR wherever you go. Because the best shots often arise when you least expect them, the EX2F delivers manual control and stunningly bright image quality in a body that is small and light enough to carry around every day. It's the perfect compact on-the-road companion for the DLSR user who expects the best image quality with full creative control." said Mr. Myoung Sup Han, Senior Vice President and Head of the Digital Imaging Business, Samsung Electronics. "The inclusion of Samsung's pioneering Wi-Fi technology also means that you can share those images straight from the camera, giving you the freedom to shoot and share wherever the journey takes you."


Specs:
  • Point and shoot
  •  
  • 3.3x (optical)
  •  
  • 12.4 megapixels
  •  
  • July 3, 2012

General

  • Point and shoot
  • 3.3x (optical)
  • 24 - 79 mm

Sensor

  • 12.4 megapixels
  • CMOS
  • Auto, 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200, 6400, 12800

Flash

  • Internal, External (shoe)

Shooting

  • Autofocus, Manual

Viewfinder

  • LCD
  • 3 inches
  • OLED (Active, Color, Backlit)
  • Yes
  • Yes

Image formats

  • JPEG, RAW
  • Yes
  • 1920 x 1080 (1080p)

Connections

  • Yes
  • Internal

Pricing & availability

  • Pre-release
  • July 3, 2012

Colors

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