Hisense Pulse brings Google TV for home theaters for under $99

There are a number of Google TV offerings currently on the market but the news that Hisense Pulse brings Google TV for home theaters for under $99 has sure caught peoples attention. While the price for the set top box seems to be the main attraction it is not any lower than the Vizio Co-star. The Hisense Pulse is due out in mid November and details of the device are a bit scarce at the moment. (Image credit: Flickr)

However we are told that one of the unique features is the double-sided Pulse remote control. It sounds like one side will have a full QWERTY keyboard while the other would look more like a remote more like a touchpad. The device will be displayed at IFA 2012. Oh, and connectivity includes HDMI in and out, USB, Ethernet and Wi-Fi.

While the Hisense Pulse brings Google TV for home theaters for under $99 is good news, how many of you actually watch live TV? Would you actually purchase a Hisense Pulse given that a Roku could do pretty much the same things for about half the price? Netflix is available on just about every device in most home networks. So let us know if the news - Hisense Pulse brings Google TV for home theaters for under $99 would make a difference to your home network.

via Posterize

Apple set top box for home theaters

An Apple set top box for home theaters could be a reality if a recent report by the Wall Street Journal holds any weight. The reports that Apple is in talks with cable operators to provide a set top box that provides live television channels as opposed to licensing content in order to offer its own streaming service. The Apple set top box for home theaters could redefine if not erase the distinction between live and on-demand content. (Image credit: Flickr)

There have been a number of rumours about a Apple TV and on demand service but according to the WSJ's sources the potential set top box has had no confirmed deals and apparently is not a new idea. Negotiations have stalled due to a variety of demands by Apple -

including a 30 percent cut on "certain transactions" and the right to an exclusive on providing IP technology of some sort.

Apple set top box for home theaters - functionally speaking

We aren't sure what IP technology they are referring to. However Sean Hollister says -

Functionally, it sounds a bit like a DVR, except viewers wouldn't actually be recording their own shows: Apple's set-top would store entire episodes in the cloud as they're being broadcast live, allowing viewers to start watching programs from the beginning even if they're late to the broadcast. Since the Apple device would also allegedly have access (through other content deals) to the current and previous seasons of any given show, too, the box could theoretically give users access to any episode of a show on-demand, including a live episode, in a single interface.

Visually, the Journal says that Apple is considering an iPad-like user interface for the set-top, but the iPad (and iPhone) itself may be part of the party too, as Apple also reportedly wants to allow its other products to access the same content.

That system recalls the smart TV vision Steve Jobs described to his biographer before he passed away:

"I’d like to create an integrated television set that is completely easy to use," he told me. "It would be seamlessly synced with all of your devices and with iCloud." No longer would users have to fiddle with complex remotes for DVD players and cable channels. "It will have the simplest user interface you could imagine. I finally cracked it."

Apple set top box for home theaters - yet to be realized

The Apple set top box for home theaters does appear to have a number of hurdles to across before it sees any hope of seeing the light of being available for retail. If the Journal's sources are right, Apple do not seem to be any closer to making the Apple set top box for home theaters a reality given there are no deals as yet with content providers and cable companies.

via Posterize

Home alarm systems with home automation systems are preferred

Home alarm systems with home automation systems are preferred according to a recent review undertaken by AlarmSystemReport.com. according to it customers prefer home alarm companies that also offer the latest home automation technologies. (Image credit: Flickr)

According to the press release -

Many of the top alarm system companies are now offering cellular monitored alarms, smart phone operated alarms, home automated alarms, and even camera integrated alarms. This being said, some companies are offering more technology upgrades than others.

For example Vivint along with 2Gig to provide an alarm system that comes with a touch screen panel. The advantage being that aesthetically the control panel is better looking and features like providing weather forecasts. Other features that top alarm system companies offer are thermostat control and night vision cameras. Home alarm systems with home automation systems are preferred because of the ease of use and desire for greater home automation.

While home alarm systems with home automation systems are preferred is pays to shop around and get one that is suitable for your needs. Have you had a Home alarm system with home automation systems installed recently if so let us know of your experience.

via Posterize

One2Touch NFC keyboard for home network smartphones

If you identify with the pain of typing on a smartphone then Japan's Elecom may have a solution for you. The One2Touch NFC keyboard for home network smartphones is a portable keyboard that connects with your handset via near field communication (NFC). When not in use you can fold it up and pop it into your pocket. (Image credit: Elecom)

The device is being billed as the first full sized keyboard for smartphones that does not require cables, pairing and battery charging, in fact the internal battery lasts about 18 months. Essentially the device is able to communicate with smartphones via the Android and the NFC IP-1 protocol. So simply placing the device in the middle of the keyboard allows you to start using the device. Check the promo video for the One2Touch NFC keyboard for home network smartphones below.

The One2Touch NFC keyboard for home network smartphones or the TK-FNS040BK as it is being called in Japan will be available in Japan only this month. There is talk about releases in other countries including the UK and US but nothing definite as yet.

via Posterize

Logitech TV Cam HD skype camera for non SMART TV

The Logitech TV Cam HD skype camera for non SMART TV has been announced. The TV Cam HD is combined effort by Skype and Logitech to provide a HD camera that is compatible with any HDTV which has an HDMI input. (Image credit: Logitech)

The device comes with Skype pre-loaded and includes built in Wi-Fi and Ethernet. Set up is as simple as plugging in the dedicated power supply and the HDMI cable provided into your HDTV. Once plugged in users can sign in just as they typically would on a PC or smartphone. Logitech says the camera shoots at 720p resolution via a Carl Zeiss lens, and has four noise canceling microphones, providing a good image and sound quality for a typical living room which also includes low light conditions. Also, even if your TV isn't on, the TV Cam HD will "ring" if a Skype audio or video call comes in.

Check out the introductory video below -

Logitech TV Cam HD skype camera for non SMART TV - A greater focus on the living room

According to the company's press release -

Using a simple, bundled remote controller, the Logitech TV Cam HD lets you call anyone using Skype on any platform, whether they are on their smartphone, tablet, HDTV or computer. Simply sign into Skype with your existing Skype Name, or create a new account on your HDTV, and you are a few clicks away from making a Skype video call from the comfort of your couch. You can also use Skype on the Logitech TV Cam HD to call landline or mobile numbers using your account’s Skype Credit or calling subscription. Plus, the Logitech TV Cam HD is Skype Certified™, ensuring you will have the best-possible Skype calling experience.

“Amazing connections happen when the video calling experience moves to the TV in the living room: the most popular and comfortable place in the house,” said Joerg Tewes, vice president of Logitech’s digital home business group. “Because of the size of the TV screen and the quality of the video, the new Logitech TV Cam HD with Skype brings a whole new social element to the living room, helping you feel like your family and friends are right there with you. It’s a transformative experience.”

“Our mission is to make Skype calling part of consumers’ everyday routine by ensuring it is accessible to everyone at any time and from anywhere,” said Bob Rosin, head of business development for Skype. “The affordable and simple-to-use Logitech TV Cam HD is a great way for the whole family to share everyday moments through Skype with others near and far – right from their living room.”

The Logitech TV Cam HD skype camera for non SMART TV is really being pitched for video chat and the company is touting what it calls Fluid Crystal technology as a major contributor behind the "crystal clear sound and sharp, rich video images" it claims the device delivers.

Logitech TV Cam HD skype camera for non SMART TV - is it worth it?

The Logitech TV Cam HD skype camera for non SMART TV is however a lot like the Tely Labs, telyHD camera in that it too features wide angle lenses and carries 4 microphones for audio and also draws design inspiration from the Microsoft Kinect. Both devices are similarly priced. However at $200 the Logitech TV Cam HD skype camera for non SMART TV is probably not going to feature on our wish list for its essential function of being a webcam.

Another point to note is that the Logitech TV Cam HD skype camera for non SMART TV has a remote which may help answer calls quickly but would be a chore to log into in the first place. Let us know your thoughts.

via Posterize

CROON Audio Bluetooth wireless speaker system

There are few wireless speaker systems that are compatible with Android and Windows phones however the CROON Audio Original is different in that it uses Bluetooth to connect with just about any smartphone or device. The CROON Audio Bluetooth wireless speaker system incorporates 2, 2.5 inch full range drivers and an acoustic amplifier of 15w per channel due to a class D amp. (Image credit: croonaudio.com)

With dimensions of 10.5 x 8 x 3.5 inches and a one-touch pairing procedure the CROON Audio Bluetooth wireless speaker system is small and sturdy enough thanks to a MDF construction to minimize vibrations. The tripod stand with cone feet also help reduce the vibration frequencies. The device also features two 3.5mm jacks for audio in and out as well as a USB port for a charging device.

Other features include the possibility of a wired connection with its 3.5 port, and a bonus USB port as well.

CROON Audio’s original sound system is available now in black for $199, or for $234 they can go with gray for gray, red, or white on white. The CROON Audio Bluetooth wireless speaker system would make a great addition to any home network or home theater system being the versatile wireless speaker that it is.

via Posterize

Philips FWP3200D DJ-dock for home networks

The Philips FWP3200D DJ-dock for home networks is a system that is pushing the boundaries of a iPod/ iPhone dock. The system combines a speaker system and a dual deck docking station for iPhones or iPods. The Philips FWP3200D DJ-dock for home networks looks like a mobile DJ stage show and in fact operates much like one with its 5.25-inch subwoofers that glow and pulse to your music—and a set of digital turntables letting you mix and scratch your beats. (Image credit: Philips)

The rotatable bays which can be accessed by users who are standing or positioned for communal control at say a party. Flashing speaker rings on the Philips FWP3200D DJ-dock for home networks can be programmed to glow red, blue or purple, or an alternating combination. They even pulse in time to the beat of the music. A matching FWP1000 speaker kit can be daisy-chained too, adding a further 240W of amplification and matching lighting.

According to Chris Davies -

Connectivity includes USB and and aux-in port, for use with non-Apple media players, and there’s an included remote control which can be used to switch between the lighting modes. A microphone input is also supplied, and there’s support for the Algoriddim djay app for iPhone and iPod touch.

The usual DJ controller buttons and sliders are present and correct, including a channel fader for switching between the sources, treble/bass controls, and a “power boosting” MAX Sound mode for getting the thumpiest audio from the 300W amplification. Speakers consist of 2-inch tweeters and 5.25-inch woofers, and there’s an FM tuner if you’ve got nothing worth listening to on your phone.

The Philips FWP3200D DJ-Dock is available in the UK now, priced at £299.99 ($470). The FWP1000 speaker kit is also available, priced at £199.99 ($314).

The video below shows an introductory overview of the Philips FWP3200D Mini Hi-Fi System.

The video below gives a users test perspective on the system

 

From our perspective the Philips FWP3200D DJ-dock for home networks may find a market but in our opinion the device wasn't designed with looks in mind and is pretty ugly. So time will really tell if the device finds a place in home networks. In the mean time if you are on the look out for a mobile DJ station then the Philips FWP3200D DJ-dock for home networks may be worth looking into.

via Posterize

LEGO iPhone case for home network fans

There are iPhone cases and there are iPhone cases but the LEGO iPhone case for home network fans of LEGO certainly is a stand out. This iPhone case pairs 2 loves for LEGO and iPhone fans. (Image credit: TinkerBrick)

The LEGO iPhone case made by TinkerBrick the video below gives you a preview of the TinkerBrick™ Lego® Compatble Case.

The LEGO iPhone case is available for the iPhone 4G and is designed to work with LEGO. The case measures 8 Lego® units in width, 14 units in height and thickness of one brick and plate. Lego® units on the device can be attached to other Lego®. This makes for virtually unlimited possibilities with the case. For example you could build a stand to prop it up, make handles to hold it while you are gaming.

The LEGO iPhone case for home network fans of LEGO is currently available in red, white, black and yellow for just $32.95. You can visit www.tinkerbrick.com for ideas and app suggestions to get the most out of the case and iPhone.

via Posterize