slider is an 8GB N-Gager

Remember the sidetalkin' N-Gage? Yeah... well, this isn't it. This is Nokia's new N-81 gaming device built upon their revamped N-Gage gaming platform. The S60 device packs HSDPA (sorry, no US band support) for on-line gaming, integrated speakers (and 3.5-mm headphone jack), and D-pad navigation for getting your game on. Still, it's not just for gaming as it fully supports all the audio and video you'd expect in a new "pane-driven," UI which carousels your windows instead of lining them up in tabs -- a UI which will evolve in the coming months in line with Ovi. On sale Q4 in Europe in an 8GB flash model (€431/$585) or €360/$490 pre-bunged with a 2GB microSD card.

Panasonic's D-snap now even more cluttered with Bluetooth

If you look closely at the Panasonic SV-SD950N's jumble of controls (go ahead, look, we know it hurts) you'll notice a few new icons: a telephone and Bluetooth. No, they haven't turned their latest D-snap Audio player into a Bluetooth enabled phone. However, they have enabled the A2DP, AVRCP, and HFP Bluetooth profiles allowing their DAP to pair and control your Bluetooth-equipped stereo headset, phone, and handsfree rig in your car or office. Otherwise, we're looking at the same ol' D-snap only with far less juice with Bluetooth enabled. After all, it's Bluetooth 2.0, not 2.1. Hitting Japan on September 21 for ¥25,000 (about $219) with 1GB SD card.

Sony's NWZ-A810 and NWZ-S610

So long ATRAC, hello NWZ-A810 and NWZ-S610 Sony Walkmans. The A810 we've seen before, twice in fact, but this is the first time the S610 (pictured) has wiggled free from the rumor mill all dolled-up in full specs and pricing. The S610 series packs the same QVGA resolution in a slightly smaller 1.8-inch display and still one-ups the A810 with an FM tuner bunged inside. Both support USB Mass Storage file transfer, AVC (H.264/AVC) and MPEG-4 encoded video, and AAC, MP3 and DRM'd WMA audio formats without bothering us with any of that icky ATRAC stuff or their much maligned SonicStage software. Sony's also making nice by bringing their B100 series of Walkman DAPs to town in 1GB ($60) and 2GB ($80) models. The S610 series starts at $120 for 2GB on up to $210 for the 8GB compared to a $140 to $230 range for the same capacity A810 models. All available in September, pre-sales now.

Nokia enters the GPS arena

Nokia introduces today a stand alone GPS unit, though to be fair they call it a complete in-car solution. Their solution consists of a GPS unit that can act as a media player/cell phone go-between -showing who is calling on the 4.3 inch screen and an easier way to make in-car calls- via bluetooth.

Rumor: Leaked pics of the Sony Ericsson P3i

Sony Ericsson where other brands like Nokia, Palm, and Blackberry have been dominate for years; the smartphone.

Sony Ericsson’s P1i smartphone is still new but there are already news going about of a leak on images that shows a larger and more powerful version that is still under development. It is rumored that the new model will be named Sony Ericsson P3i. The key addition to this new model is a touchscreen. Other features are still uncertain. Communities at large believe that it could come with WiFi connectivity, 3G network and possibly a 3 megapixel camera. Nothing much can be said about this new model until it is officially launched but it definitely will be a strong competitor in smartphone market segment.

Victorinox Unveils Absurdly Expensive Knife, We Suggest Second Mortgage

Victorinox has unveiled its new Victoria series; 240 pimped out pocket knives, available only while supplies last. Half are covered in yellow gold 750, the other 120 have been smothered in pure platinum 950, with 430 flawless diamonds on every knife. Both are 74mm Executive-type Victorinox army knives and come with 2 blades, a nail file and cleaner, scissors, orange peeler, screwdriver, ring and pair of tweezers. Everything except the tweezers has been engraved and given another coating of bling. Also comes with matching precious metal chain, so that you can show off your lack of class.

Now the important part: cost. The gold knife will set you back $50,000 while the platinum one comes for an absurd $70,000. So if you have to chose between a new car and one of these knives, we here at OhGizmo! sincerely hope you’ll make the right choice.

Nike Amp Watch Leaked

The new iPod compatible line of Nike watches has been (strategically) leaked on the Internet. The AMP+ comes as a stylistically minimal watch, complete with trendy red undertones and a LED based face. When the AMP+ is linked to a Nike+ compatible iPod nano, it becomes something more than just eye-candy; the AMP+ can display information and be used to remotely control your iPod nano. All from your stylish wristband.

13 of these beauties have been seen out and about, and they are due to hit the retail market in a couple of months.

Samsung’s YP-P3 Looks Like Something. No, Not A Delicious Sandwich

By David Ponce

Remember a few years ago when everything looked like an iPod? Well, the iPhone’s the big daddy now, and what do you know… stuff is hitting the market that bears more than an uncanny resemblance. In this case, Samsung’s YP-P3 DAP has taken more than a few design clues from the Jesus phone; from the touchscreen interface, to the icon-based navigation menu. Of course, it’s not actually a phone, but it is a capable media player with 8GB of flash memory and Bluetooth. Oh, and built-in speakers, which we kind of like on a music player.

There’s no word on price or availability yet, but we do have one more picture after the jump.

Product Advisory: Nokia BL-5C battery

Nokia has identified that in very rare cases the affected batteries could potentially experience over heating initiated by a short circuit while charging, causing the battery to dislodge. Nokia is working closely with relevant local authorities to investigate this situation.

Nokia has several suppliers for BL-5C batteries that have collectively produced more than 300 million BL-5C batteries. This advisory applies only to the 46 million batteries manufactured by Matsushita between December 2005 and November 2006. There have been approximately 100 incidents of over heating reported globally. No serious injuries or property damage have been reported.

Consumers with a BL-5C battery subject to this advisory should note that all of the approximately 100 incidents have occurred while charging the battery. According to Nokia's knowledge this issue does not affect any other use of the mobile device. Concerned consumers may want to monitor a mobile device while charging that contains a BL-5C battery subject to this product advisory.

While the occurence in the BL-5C batteries produced by Matsushita in the time-period specified is very rare, for consumers wishing to do so, Nokia and Matsushita offer to replace for free any BL-5C battery subject to this product advisory.

The BL-5C batteries which are subject to the product advisory were used with the following Nokia models or separately as accessories:

Nokia 1100, Nokia 1100c, Nokia 1101, Nokia 1108, Nokia 1110, Nokia 1112, Nokia 1255, Nokia 1315, Nokia 1600, Nokia 2112, Nokia 2118, Nokia 2255, Nokia 2272, Nokia 2275, Nokia 2300, Nokia 2300c, Nokia 2310, Nokia 2355, Nokia 2600, Nokia 2610, Nokia 2610b, Nokia 2626, Nokia 3100, Nokia 3105, Nokia 3120, Nokia 3125, Nokia 6030, Nokia 6085, Nokia 6086, Nokia 6108, Nokia 6175i, Nokia 6178i, Nokia 6230, Nokia 6230i, Nokia 6270, Nokia 6600, Nokia 6620, Nokia 6630, Nokia 6631, Nokia 6670, Nokia 6680, Nokia 6681, Nokia 6682, Nokia 6820, Nokia 6822, Nokia 7610, Nokia N70, Nokia N71, Nokia N72, Nokia N91, Nokia E50, Nokia E60

This product advisory applies also to the following accessories:

Nokia Wireless GPS Module LD-1W, Nokia Wireless GPS Module LD-3W

“Nokia” and “BL-5C” are printed on the front of the battery. On the back of the battery, the Nokia mark appears at the top, and the battery identification number (consisting of 26 characters) is found at the bottom. If the battery identification number does not contain 26 characters, it is not subject to this product advisory.

If you are interested to know if your battery is part of this product advisory, please follow the two steps below:

1) Switch off your mobile device and check the battery model. If your battery is not a BL-5C model, you are not included in this product advisory and your product will not be replaced.

2) If your battery is a BL-5C model, remove the battery and check the 26-character identification number from the back of the battery. Enter the identification number in the field below and you will be advised if your battery may be replaced.

http://batteryreplacement.nokia.com/batteryreplacement/en/

From: NOKIA

The VAIO music streamer

When you use our coupon code before August 31st at Sony.com, you’ll save $50 off the Sony VAIO Digital Music Streamer.

The VAIO music streamer a very convenient audio device that can be used for more than playing back music.

In addition to being able to take this device from room to room, you can also use it as an alarm clock and integrate it into your home audio system. Control the stand alone device either by remote or through the LCD touchscreen.

Sony has set up Playstation 3 kiosks at Shinhan Banks in Korea

Looks like people have a reason to go to the bank, even if you don’t have any money to dump into it.

Sony has set up Playstation 3 kiosks at Shinhan Banks in Korea. Besides the conventional print ads and commercials, it looks like Sony is pulling out all their ideas trying to get consumers to play their games. Forget BestBuy, they’re pioneering into banks.

And banks aren’t the only place their trying to tap into. In Mokdong, Seoul, a public demonstration of the Playstation 3 was setup in a multiplex theater.

What’s next?PS3 booths in McDonalds!?

Sony Walkman E010

Sony has teamed up with the Abiste Corporation to come up with this limited edition Walkman E010 lineup. These players are going to come in pink, violet, black, blue and gold colors in addition to the removable caps being lined with Swarovski glass crystals.

Don’t get too excited though. If you’re wanting this ASAP, you’ll still have 2 months just like everyone else after you’ve placed your order.

How much are these you ask? The 1 GB is going for $134, the 2GB $160 and 4GB is $210.

Nike Creates the Marine Convoy Transformer

Just when you thought the Transformers craze was over with, Nike keeps it going when they come up with a Transformer of their own. The Marine Convoy.

The Nike Free 7.0, or The Marine Convoy as this character is named, is an original character created by Nike which bares the swoosh logo and is even donning a pair of the Nike’s himself.

But for all you Transformers nerds who are looking to stand this up next to your model of Optimus Prime, I’ve got some bad news. Unless you can find it on eBay or anyone else, it’s currently only available in Japan for about 2,500 Yen.

SanDisk Sansa

SanDisk decided to bring another screen to the clip-on party with its new Sansa Clip. Apple's Shuffle and Creative's Zen Stone have been rocking the form factor for a while now, but only the Zen Stone Plus is much use for browsing through your music collection. The Sansa Clip player sports the same OLED screen that can be found on the Sansa Express, but comes in both 1GB and 2GB flavors, for the lovable price points of $40 and $60, respectively. SanDisk even found room for FM and voice recorders, and the usual MP3 and subscription-friendly WMA support. The Sansa Clip promises 15 hours of battery life, and should be out in September in your choice of black, red, pink and blue.

UniquePhones indefinitely delays release of iPhone SIM unlock software

So, as you may have seen, earlier this morning at 3AM local time UniquePhones (the team behind iPhoneUnlocking.com, who've claimed to have the second proper iPhone SIM unlock software hack) got a threatening call from AT&T's legal team urging them to not release their software -- or else. Now, we can understand why any smallish business wouldn't exactly want lawyers repping AT&T (and Apple) breathing down their necks for a potentially market-shifting discovery -- which is why the company is now officially holding the release of their SIM unlock solution indefinitely while they assess their legal position. Fair enough, but we still haven't even had a chance to verify their solution does unlock iPhones.

However, the interesting (and possibly telling) bit comes up at the end of their release, where apparently UniquePhones is "evaluating what to eventually do with the software should they be legally denied the right to sell it." Here's to hoping that, should UniquePhones not find themselves able to actually sell their software, at very least the unlock method they've discovered gets opened up to the public. After all, there's no reason why everyone shouldn't be able benefit from this knowledge just because one company isn't able to sell it, right?

T-Qualizer T-shirt

The T-Qualizer is a t-shirt with a built in sound sensitive graphic equalizer panel. As the music beats, the shirts equalizer lights up to the beat of the music. Great for concerts, raves, parties etc. The T-Qualizer is made from 100% cotton. It has a fully functional EL (Electro Luminenscence) panel with a battery pack that snuggles discretely into a pocket inside the shirt. The end result is an awesome sound sensitive music T-Shirt that commands attention. Each frequency of music will activate a different equalizer bar, just like the equalizer on your home stereo! Features: Black cotton t-shirt with a sound activated illuminating panel. The lights flash in green, yellow and red in time to sound and music. The illuminating panel is powered by a detachable battery pack, located inside the t-shirt. The battery pack has an on/off switch so you can choose when you do and don’t want to flash The battery pack can be unplugged for washing the t-shirt. The t-shirt is hand wash only. Size (chest width): Small: 42.5cm Medium: 45cm Large: 47.5cm. X Large: 50.5cm.

PSP wireless heartbeat sensor hack

It's amazing what homebrew coders for the PSP are able to come up with, especially when you consider that the "solutions" don't really solve anything. If you've ever hankered for a heartbeat recognition ability for your portable gaming machine, then here it is. One guy called Art simply soldered a coiled copper wire across the microphone input, which allows it to pick up the signal from a wireless heartbeat sensor. The result isn't visually impressive -- he hasn't coded a graphical readout yet -- but it should definitely inspire confidence in the homebrew community's ingenuity. PSP pull-ups anyone?

Accused child killer's alibi busted thanks to GPS

GPS systems that end up helping the fuzz track down the baddies are nothing new, and a recent case involving a Piscataway man has an inconspicuous tracking system to thank for solving a gruesome mystery. Reportedly, the culprit had informed police that he had taken a 12-year old babysitter to view horses on their way back to her domicile, but "accidentally backed over her" during the outing. Closer inspection of the GPS system -- which was installed just days earlier by his suspicious wife -- revealed that the "horse stop" lasted three hours, which led police to believe that the girl was "ran down" after trying to escape. Needless to say, murder charges have since replaced the comparatively minor accusations of "reckless endangerment" that he had previously been dealt.

Apple, Vodafone discussing iPhone minutiae?

While the Apple-Vodafone rumors have been swirling for months, an unnamed "source" has apparently found that the two firms are now breaking down the minute details that are holding back a (potentially) forthcoming launch. Most importantly, it seems that Vodafone doesn't want to "give up as much control" as did AT&T here in the States, and below is a brief list of reported "iPhone enhancements [that] carriers are looking for:"

• Vodafone wants the YouTube application to "work much more like the Internet version."
• Improvements to Outlook and Exchange support
• Improved security and firewalls
• Tweaks to Apple's WEP and WPA security key requirements
• Web browser improvements, namely, the ability to simply "cut and paste"

So, there you have it -- now how's about we just start compromising and get a deal together for all the patient Europeans, yeah?

Corsair releases "Flash Padlock" PIN-based flash drive

Innovation in the flash drive sphere seems to be limited to bringing the price down, and adding on new security features. Corsair's new "Flash Padlock" flash drive seemingly does both, by retailing at $29.99 and $39.99 in 1GB and 2GB variants, and tacking on a PIN based security system that limits who can access the drive. The benefit to the Flash Padlock is that its security solution is entirely hardware based, so it's supposedly impervious to hackers and crackers and other deviant folk: the downside is that if your computer's USB ports are out of reach, then this solution is going to be extremely bad for your back.

Jabra BT8030 bluetooth headset works as a speaker too

While the kids at the back of buses everywhere may already be aware of the fact that headphones can act as speakers if turned up loud enough, the rest of humanity tends to keep the volume down, and is therefore unawares. Jabra has latched onto this concept and created the BT8030, which can act as a bluetooth headset when you're on the move, and then switch into a speakerphone mode for Skype at your laptop. The speaker / headphone combo will also play music over Bluetooth, lasting up to 26 hours in music mode, 32 hours in talk mode, and sitting in standby for up to 25 days. It'll retail for $249.99, although we're not sure when you'll be able to pick one up.

DVD playback enabled on mod-chipped Wiis

A mod chipping company called Team Symbiote has apparently created an application for owners of its Wii mod chip that enables the console to play back DVDs. This may not be the first mod to enable DVD playback, but since Nintendo still hasn't got around to providing the console with playback capabilities, we thought it'd be worth bringing it up again. Nintendo, how about hurrying up and making it so normal people don't have to buy dodgy chips to play a DVD or two on their console?

Blinged out iPod Shuffle doesn't come cheap

For the small price of 120,000 Norwegian Kroner (around $20,000) you can pick up a concentrated mix of gold, diamonds, and... iPod Shuffle. There's not a lot more to this blinged out creation: why anyone would want to place twenty gees worth of precious carbon on a $99 gadget, we'll never know.

Toshiba's REGZA Z3500 series of 120Hz LCDs: 57-inches of love for your home network

Like TVs do ya? Then go ahead and block off the next few hours to decipher the machine translated Japanese surrounding Toshiba's 11 new HDTVs. Of these, the new top of the line REGZA Z3500 series of 37-, 42-, 46-, 52- and 57-inch LCDs are by far the more interesting. Each offers a 120Hz / 10-bit IPS panel with 3x HDMI (1080/60p and 24p) supporting x.v.Color / DeepColor, 2x Firewire, and a whopping 3x Ethernet jacks for surfing the internet (browser built-in) or streaming DLNA and DTCP-IP media from Tosh's own VARDIA recorders, Qosmio PCs, your local NAS server, and plenty more. Better yet, sling a few disks off the included 2x USB jacks and you've got an instant DVR -- suuuweet. Prices start at ¥360,000 ($3,123) and run up to ¥950,000 ($8,242) for the biggie 57-incher. We'll bring you the rest of the new sets a bit later, mkay?

Orkut Celebrate Independence day

Orkut Celebrate Independence day
Wish U HAppy INDEPENDENCE DAY

Microsoft Brings Zune - Halo® 3

Microsoft Brings Zune - Halo® 3 Military Edition to Service Men and Women Soldiers leaving for active duty on August 6 will be the first to receive the new Halo Zune devices SEATTLE - Microsoft introduces a new brown version of the Halo 3-themed Zune exclusively for military service members. After receiving feedback on the popularity of the Zune players from U.S. soldiers, teams from Microsoft Zune and Microsoft's U.S. Federal business joined together to develop a special Zune – Halo 3 Military Edition, which comes packaged in a collectible Halo 3 box and will come pre-loaded with artwork, trailers, and music from all three Halo games. The device will be available exclusively at military retail stores beginning in August at discounted rates for military personnel and their families. A group of soldiers leaving for active duty from the Baltimore Washington International airport on August 6 will be the first to receive the new Halo Zune devices. Microsoft contributed 300 of the new Zune players to the USO of Metropolitan Washington to be part of a special USO care package the soldiers will receive. While visiting the USO lounge at BWI, soldiers can use the Windows PCs at the lounge and a special Zune listening station to load their devices with additional content before their departure.

Parrot Bluetooth Car Kit from IDLDPL

Aug 13, 2007 IDLDPL has launched the Gen-Next "Parrot 3200 LC-COLOR PLUS' in the Indian market.

"Parrot 3200 LS-COLOR PLUS" is a Bluetooth-enabled, full-featured installed car kit with a large bright color TFT screen, and full duplex audio.
It pairs with up to 5 phones, stores up to 1,000 contacts, and supports 150 voice tags for true voice-controlled and hands-free calling. Once paired with a Bluetooth phone, it automatically synchronizes with the cell-phone address book. And while calling or receiving calls, the screen displays the person's name, phone number, and his/her photograph.

According to IDLDPL, the device makes for voice not to get distorted at all times, the reason being Parrot's latest digital signal processing (DSP) technology called Parrot Beamforming.

Parrot Beamforming utilizes advanced noise and echo cancellation technology in combination with two highly sensitive microphones, which help the system to identify and eliminate unwanted background noise while isolating the driver's voice.

The LS-COLOR PLUS looks almost like a MP4 player and has a TFT color display unit integrated with a pair of external microphones. The TFT can be adjusted for brightness and contrast. The color and user interface can be customized as per user preference.

Speaking on the occasion, Surinder Saini, brand manager for Parrot, IDLDPL, said, "Parrot 3200 LS-color plus Bluetooth car kit enriches our portfolio of Bluetooth devices. I think it is the perfect blend of technology and aesthetics at good price. Every self-driven car finds a definite value in 3200LS-color plus. The driver does not get distracted while talking through this wonderful Parrot device, thus concentrates on the road."

The product is available through most large retail stores and B2C Web sites for Rs 16,690 apiece.

PDA With GPS Launched

New Delhi-based GPS India has launched the Garmin iQue 3600 personal digital assistant with integrated global positioning system. The device, costing Rs. 55,000, is aimed at business travelers and tourists. The company claims it is the first PDA in the world to have integrated GPS technology.

The iQue 3600 is based on the Palm OS 5, and users can look up addresses or appointments and navigate to it using the mapping function. The progress of the traveler is presented digitally on the device's 320x480 pixel TFT color display. It has a 200 MHz processor, speaker for voice-guidance commands, MP3 player, message playback, built-in 32 MB memory, rechargeable internal Lithium-Ion battery that gives around two weeks of standby time and SD expansion slot for adding storage and software.
"iQue 3600 is a significant development in the growing range of mobile devices and adds tremendous value to the PDA due to its novel use of GPS technology" said an official of GPS India, who are stockists for Garmin products in India.

"The iQue 3600 is one of Garmin's flagship products, and the first to emerge in this planned future product range that reflects Garmin's expertise in location technologies with open mobile computing platforms, such as Palm OS and the demand for such devices is all set to grow exponentially."

US-based Garmin International, the maker of the device, is a member of the Garmin group of companies that designs, manufactures, and markets navigation and communications equipment for the aviation and consumer markets.

India’s 1st GPS Navigation Solution

Satguide is India’s 1st GPS Navigation Solution which can guide the user from Kashmir to Kanyakumari across all national highways of the country. SatGuide also has detailed maps of the six metros for intra-city navigation. Satguide navigates the user to a desired location using GPS Technology. A user who has installed Satguide on his/her pocket PC has to select the destination point as the first input prior to starting, Satguide will then suggest the best possible route on a map displayed on the screen of Pocket PC. While driving, it prompts the user through voice commands with "turn-by-turn" directions to reach the destination

Boynq offers up a myriad of artsy speakers, peripherals

It's been a tick since we've seen any randomness from Boynq's labs, but it looks like the firm has worked up quite a number of design-centric speaker stations, iPod sound systems, and superfluous USB-related gizmos of late. Among the standouts are the iCube II (pictured), which sports ten-watts of amplification, an iPod docking port, line-in, dedicated treble / bass controls, and a rather sexy look, too. Additionally, the tooth-shaped Sabre operates much like the aforementioned device but touts twice the wattage and a video output, and the USB-powered Alibi webcam looks an awful lot like a robotic pet of some sort. Do yourself a favor and check out a few more photos of Boynq's zany lineup after the jump.

Mimoco releases a whole new batch of adorable flash drives

Have you been looking for that special something to whip out at the big meeting to show everyone that you've got style, class, and money to burn? Well perhaps you should take a peek at the latest set of Mimobot Core Series 2 USB flash drives, which come fashioned in a wide variety of cute-as-all-get-out cartoon monsters, designed by illustrator Dino Alberto. While we can't say that we prefer these to the company's previous Star Wars-themed line, there is something intriguing about this new set, like the fact that these adorable little guys all have an elaborate back-story that's loaded onto the drives for your viewing pleasure -- although you may just want to scrap that to make more room for your "business documents." The drives come in 512MB, 1GB, 2GB or 4GB capacity, and range in price from $39.95 to $109.95.

First shots of the Cowon iAudio X7?

We'd heard that Cowon was planning to ship a 40- and 80GB iAudio X7 in September, but these supposed product shots that just surfaced at DAPreview are the first tangible evidence we've seen of the device. Based on what we know they look pretty legit, but our expertise on Photoshop fakery can only take us so far.

USB necktie with built-in fan keeps you cool

Ain't nothing classier than a clip-on tie...except one with a built-in USB-powered fan in the knot. We're not certain how this thing keep you cool, or why you wouldn't just use any of the million other USB-powered fans that don't increase your dork factor by 1000, but the people in the photos look so blissfully content we're actually a little curious.

Palm Foleo specification details begin to flow

As the rumored launch date of Palm's Foleo draws closer, it follows logic that the pieces would start to come together regarding the innards of this thing. Shortly after naming Wind River Systems as its preferred Linux provider, Palm is reportedly divulging details about the specifications to developers at the LinuxWorld conference. Under the hood will supposedly be goodies such as a 416MHz Intel / Marvell PXA27x processor, Marathon 2700G graphics accelerator with video output, 128MB of RAM "for holding currently running applications, and 256MB of non-volatile memory," a CompactFlash slot located behind the battery, an SD expansion slot (though some reports suggest SDHC works also), and WiFi support. Most intriguing, however, was the note that some developers at the expo were "given a unit already in its retail packaging" after attending a seminar about writing applications for the Foleo and "signing a non-disclosure agreement," which certainly leads us to believe that this gizmo will hit shelves sooner rather than later.

Sony PSP Software update

The PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system software update may include security patches, new or revised settings and features and other items, which will change your current operating system. We encourage you to check this page from time to time for software updates and to always maintain your system to use the latest version of the system software.

An update to the PSP® system software was made available on July 24, 2007. If you update your PSP® system, the system software will be version 3.52.

Notices

• This update is for customers who own PSP® systems with model number PSP-1001 sold in North America. DO NOT update your PSP® system through this Web site if you purchased your system outside North America. There is no guarantee of proper operation with models sold outside North America.
• Do not perform updates using any data other than the official update data provided by Sony Computer Entertainment over a network or on disc media, and do not perform updates by methods other than those described in the product documentation or in this site. If an update is performed using data from another source, by another method, or with a PSP® system that has been altered or modified in any way, the PSP® system may not operate properly and may not be able to install the official update data. Any of these actions may void the PSP® system warranty and affect your ability to obtain warranty services and repair services from Sony Computer Entertainment.
• For customers using PSP® system software version 2.80 or earlier:
  PSP® systems with system software version 2.80 or earlier do not correctly recognize high-capacity Memory Stick PRO Duo™ with more than 4 GB of free (recordable) memory space. For further details, select here.
• The system software included within this product is subject to a limited license from Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. Refer to http://www.scei.co.jp/psp-eula for further details.

The PSP® system software version 3.52 update (with v 3.50/3.51) includes the following:

• Game
  • New for 3.52: Support for PLAYSTATION®Network titles has been expanded.
• Network
  • New for 3.50: You can now connect a PSP® system to a PS3™ system via the Internet using [Remote Play].
  • New for 3.50: [Communication Settings] has been added as an option to the [Remote Play] menu.
  • New for 3.50: [RSS Channel Guide] has been added as a feature under [RSS Channel].
• Other
  • New for 3.51: A security patch was added to address security vulnerabilities in the system software.

Hints

• If your PSP® system software version is 3.52 (or later), you do not need to perform this update. To check the version of your system software, go to (Settings) > [System Settings] > [System Information]. The information is shown in the System Software field.
• Depending on the software title, you may not be able to play without first updating the system software.
• This system software update includes all features contained in previous versions.
• Depending on the system software version, screen images shown here may be different from the actual product.
• To connect to the Internet using your system, you must be within range of a wireless access point (or hotspot) that allows connections to the Internet.

You can update your system software by any of the following methods:

• Update using a PC »
  Download the update data to a PC, and then save on Memory Stick Duo™ media. Start the saved update data on your PSP® system to perform the update. Select the link above for update instructions.
  
• Network Update »
  Use the PSP® system's Network Update feature to perform the update. Select the link above for update instructions. Refer also to the instructions for the PSP® system.
  
• Update using a UMD »
  Use the update data included on a UMD™ to perform the update. Select the link above for update instructions.
  *As of May 31, 2007, this method is only available for updates up to version 3.40.

Trackball MP3 Player Challenges The Scrollwheel’s Dominance

I’m probably one of only a handful of people on the planet who actually misses having a trackball on a laptop, so I immediately have a soft spot for this Trackball MP3 Player concept created by Dae-Ki Hong. Instead of pushing buttons or using a touch-sensitive scroll wheel you simply roll a small trackball in the direction of whichever control you wish to execute. It even works the same way when placed upside down on a flat surface which reminds me of another device I just can’t put my finger on…

While I like the translucent plastic design of the player I have to wonder about the lack of screen, the ease at which a trackball can be accidentally rolled and not to mention the trackball’s notorious history of collecting dirt and grime.

Samsung Blast Phone is Exclusive for T-Mobile

Samsung Wireless launched a new mobile phone today that is exclusive to T-Mobile called the Samsung Blast. The Blast is intended to be an easy to use messaging phone with a slider design.

Samsung says this is their first U.S. slider phone to use a QWERTY style keypad. This is also the first phone from T-Mobile to offer users access to personal email including Yahoo! Mail, Gmail, and AOL email. T-Mobile says that there is no required data plan with the Blast. The sending and receiving of emails will be charged like text messages.

Other features of the Blast include enhanced T-Mobile myFaves capability, stereo Bluetooth technology, external microSD slot, 1.3MP camera with 4x zoom, multiple messaging options, Quad-band GSM 800, 900, 1800, 1900 MHz, and a 176×220 TFT color display. Talk time is rated for up to 5 hours and standby time is rated for 8 days.

Meat Smeller Smells Meat (For Freshness!)

Startlingly similar to something that you you would see on an infomercial in the middle of the night, the SensorFreshQ meat smeller will smell your meat for you. It can tell you whether or not meat is safe to eat by analyzing the gaseous compounds that bacteria produce. The results are color-coded, following the same rules as your average traffic light. Green means good to go, yellow portrays doubt, and red means “McThrowitAway.”

The SensorFreshQ runs on two AA batteries, and detects the freshness of meat and poultry (does it work on fish?) in about a minute. It’s $90.

Worldspace Radio Live on MSN India

Today, MSN India, Worldspace Satellite Radio, and music maestro A R Rahman, announced the launch of 5 Worldspace stations on MSN India.

With this, music lovers will have 24x7 access to the five Worldspace stations, including Farishta (Hindi film classics), Gandharv (Hindustani classical), Sparsha (Kannada), Spandana (Telugu), and Shruti (Carnatic music) at http://worldspace.msnserver.com/
sers can play any/all of the five channels basis their choice, and receive weekly and monthly program guides along with RJ profiles for particular channels. All they need is bandwidth in the region of 64 kbps.

According to Worldspace and MSN, the monthly fees are on the higher side because this is the only 'legal' online streaming channel where moneys go to the concerned artistes, and copyright fees end-up getting paid.

Of the five Worldspace stations accessible on MSN India, 'Farishta' plays Hindi music from the 40s to the 80s, packaged in a way so as to stimulate and entertain listeners.

'Gandharv' takes listeners through a melifluous journey of discovery into a genre as vast and ethereal as Hindustani Classical music. The station features some of the greats produced by this genre -- right from old timers like Ustad Bade Ghulam Ali Khan and Ustad Allaudin Khan to contemporary masters, including Ustad Zakir Hussain, Vidushi Ashwini Bhide Deshpande, and Vidushi Shubha Mudgal.

Meanwhile, Shruti (Carnatic music), Sparsha (Kannada), and Spandana (Telugu) provide that distinct local flavor, and are intended to be a reflection of the tastes and culture of the people hailing from these regions of the country.

"We believe that with this initiative, we will help bridge the needs of Indians across the globe to be closely connected with their roots and Indian culture, and provide them a platform to savor songs online even when they don't have access to Worldspace Satellite Radio," said Velu Shankar, senior advisor - content and programming, Worldspace India.

"This association is part of our commitment to our users in bringing the best of entertainment online. Users now can listen to their favourite music online," said Jaspreet Bindra, country manager India - online service group, Microsoft.

"While music on the net is gaining popularity today, users in India do not have many radio stations online to listen to the music they love. Now, users in India can log on to MSN India and listen to music that is relevant to them," said Krishna Prasad, executive producer of MSN India.

Musician par excellence and brand ambassador for Worldspace, A R Rahman, said, "Technology is breaking barriers, and going beyond geographical boundaries helping musicians gain recognition outside India. At the same time making their music available worldwide."

Worldspace India, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Worldspace, is headquartered out of Bangalore, and boasts a range of over 40 radio stations across musical genres.

The offline service has about 1,70,000 subscribers across the country. It's Indian programming includes 2 Indian classical stations -- Shruti (Carnatic) and Gandharv (Hindustani), as well as regional stations -- Sonar (Bengali), Sparsha (Kannada), Spandana (Telugu), Tunak Punjabi (Punjabi), Falak (Urdu & Ghazals), Surabhi (Marathi), Radio Umang (Gujarathi), to name a few.

While the offline service is reasonably popular, the association with MSN India is an exercise in increasing the reach of Worldspace through the online medium. For MSN too, it's as much about increasing reach, as it is about giving consumers something unique and exclusive vis-a-vis competitors in the online space.

Xbox 360 Halo 3 Special Edition

We're not going to mince words -- this post goes out to everybody in the audience that wanted a little closer look at the Xbox 360 Halo 3 Special Edition console due out next month. Enjoy the eye candy!

Sprint to offer WiMAX-enabled Nokia N800 in 2008?

While we were already looking forward to the N800 Internet Tablet's inevitable successor, it seems like Sprint may have something else in mind. According to LinuxDevices, the operator "will offer a mobile WiMAX-enabled version of Nokia's N800 Internet Tablet to North American customers next year," which reportedly falls in line with the carrier's grand scheme of making 4G services available "to over 100 million people during 2008." Furthermore, Nokia's director of open source, Dr. Ari Jaaksi, was quoted as saying that this here device would "most probably" include WiFi and Bluetooth as well, but as expected, no details regarding a specific launch timeframe were divulged.

Sony set to introduce VAIO FZ2 laptops

It's not all that long ago that Sony bumped its VAIO FZ laptops into Santa Rosa territory, but it seems that the company is planning to expand the line even further, with Notebook Italia today getting word of a pair of new FZ2 series laptops. As with its current FZ offerings, these new laptops will each pack 15.4-inch WXGA displays, but they get an upgrade in the processor department to your choice of Core 2 Duo T7250 or T7500, along with NVIDIA GeForce 8400 GT graphics on the higher-end of the two, 2GB of RAM, a 250GB hard drive, and your choice of Blu-ray or DVD combo drives. No word on a release date just yet, it seems, but they'll apparently set you back $1,299 or $1,399 depending on the configuration.

Princeton intros 500GB iTunes/DLNA NAS

Princeton Technology seems to be intent on keeping all its NAS bases covered, with the company now introducing a 500GB unit to complement its bring-your-own-drive offerings. As with those others units, the company's new PEC-NAV500 NAS boasts iTunes server and DLNA capabilities, includes DigiOn's DiXiM media server client software, and packs a spare USB port to accommodate a printer or an extra drive. It also promises improved heat dissipation from its aluminum enclosure, and packs a fan just in case that's enough enough to keep things cool. Look for this one to hit Japan later this month for around ¥32,800, or roughly $276.