Engadget HD http://www.engadgethd.com Engadget HD http://www.engadgethd.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget HD http://www.engadgethd.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Black Friday ads leaking all over town, we've rounded them up]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/11/11/black-friday-ads-leaking-all-over-town-weve-rounded-them-up/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/11/11/black-friday-ads-leaking-all-over-town-weve-rounded-them-up/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/11/11/black-friday-ads-leaking-all-over-town-weve-rounded-them-up/#commentsFiled under:


The holiday shopping season is really creeping up on us quickly this year... wasn't it just Halloween the other day? Regardless, Black Friday ads revealing the deals to come are leaking all over the internet, so we thought we'd round up a few of the less monotonous-looking bargains. So what's on offer? It looks like Sam's Club has an Acer Aspire One 10.1-inch netbook going for $197, and an HP G71 17-inch laptop with a Blu-ray player for $499, an Olympus FE-4000 12 megapixel digicam for $98, and a few other odds and ends. Meanwhile, over at Staples you can snag a 500GB Western Digital My Passport portable hard drive for $70 and a 23-inch Acer widescreen LCD for $140. If you're still up to it, you can head over to Target and grab a Nikon Coolpix S203 for $88 or a TomTom XL340S for $97. Finally, it looks like Kmart's going to have a 42-inch Panasonic 720p Plasma HDTV for $550 and a 10.1 megapixel Sony Cyber-shot W180 for $99. While you're there, don't forget to pick up a Jaclyn Smith cashmere sweater set for $30, too! Hit the read links for full ads.

Read - Sam's Club Black Friday Ad Leaked
Read - Staples Black Friday Ad
Read - Target Black Friday Ad
Read - Kmart Black Friday Ad

Black Friday ads leaking all over town, we've rounded them up originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 11 Nov 2009 18:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>black fridayblack friday 2009BlackFridayBlackFriday2009dealsholidayholiday shoppingholidaysHolidayShoppingkmartsalessams clubSamsClubshoppingstaplestargetWed, 11 Nov 2009 18:02:00 EST<![CDATA[ITC rules Samsung infringed on four Sharp patents, bans import of some LCDs]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/11/10/itc-rules-samsung-infringed-on-four-sharp-patents-bans-import-o/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/11/10/itc-rules-samsung-infringed-on-four-sharp-patents-bans-import-o/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/11/10/itc-rules-samsung-infringed-on-four-sharp-patents-bans-import-o/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The US International Trade Commission already ruled in June of this year that Samsung had infringed on one patent held by Sharp, but it's now back with another ruling that finds Samsung violated no less than four LCD-related patents held by its rival. Once again, the ITC has also barred Samsung from selling the infringing LCDs in the US (still not clear on exactly what's affected), but Samsung seems more than ready to comply with the ruling, saying that there will be "no impact on our business and our ability to meet market demand." For its part, Sharp simply says that the ruling has "made it clear that ITC has consistently supported Sharp's claim that LCD products of Samsung violated Sharp's patents" -- Samsung, meanwhile, says it has no plans to negotiate with Sharp on the issue, so let's just hope its workaround is more than a quick fix.

ITC rules Samsung infringed on four Sharp patents, bans import of some LCDs originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 10 Nov 2009 11:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>international trade commissionInternationalTradeCommissionitclawlawsuitlcdlegalpatentpatent infringementPatentInfringementpatentssamsungsharpTue, 10 Nov 2009 11:52:00 EST<![CDATA[CEA checking out 3D@Home Consortium's requirements for interfaces, glasses technology]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/11/09/cea-checking-out-3d-home-consortiums-requirements-for-interface/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/11/09/cea-checking-out-3d-home-consortiums-requirements-for-interface/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/11/09/cea-checking-out-3d-home-consortiums-requirements-for-interface/#commentsFiled under:

Getting out well in front of the 3D standardization trend appears to be working out for the 3D@Home Consortium and its assorted backers --including Samsung, Disney, Philips and others -- as it has just submitted to the CEA a list of the various products and technologies involved in 3D. Between active shutter and passive glasses solutions we have long lost track of who is doing exactly what in the 3D space, but it appears this group has stayed on top of it, developing a database of the different glasses technologies and working with the CEA to help create a standard that it hopes will resolve any possible compatibility issues before they become a problem. We just want to know which sticker or logo we should be checking for on the side of the box that indicates our future purchases won't be incompatible or obsolete before their time, is that really so hard?

CEA checking out 3D@Home Consortium's requirements for interfaces, glasses technology originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 09 Nov 2009 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dceaconsortiumstandardizationstandardsMon, 09 Nov 2009 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Forget HDTV and 3D, when is Ultra HDTV / Super Hi-vision coming home?]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/11/04/forget-hdtv-and-3d-when-is-ultra-hdtv-super-hi-vision-coming/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/11/04/forget-hdtv-and-3d-when-is-ultra-hdtv-super-hi-vision-coming/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/11/04/forget-hdtv-and-3d-when-is-ultra-hdtv-super-hi-vision-coming/#commentsFiled under:


Not willing to make predictions about the future of HDTV with all the other analysts, In-Stat has jumped ahead with its latest report, a peek at the future of Ultra High Definition (though the kids are calling it Super Hi-Vision these days.) We'd heard the 8K / 4K broadcasts could flip on as early as 2015, but this report pegs 2017 - 2022 as a more likely time period, with the expectation that 28.2% of European households will be sporting the 22.2-channel audio spec by 2025. Of course, if you must be first on the block with it, there's always JVC's $175k DLA-RS4000 available right now.

Forget HDTV and 3D, when is Ultra HDTV / Super Hi-vision coming home? originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 04 Nov 2009 15:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analystin-statpredictionshvsuper hi-visionSuperHi-visionuhdtvultra hdtvUltraHdtvWed, 04 Nov 2009 15:39:00 EST<![CDATA[AT&T CruiseCast satellite service halts activations, will refund customers]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/11/03/atandt-cruisecast-satellite-service-halts-activations-will-refund/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/11/03/atandt-cruisecast-satellite-service-halts-activations-will-refund/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/11/03/atandt-cruisecast-satellite-service-halts-activations-will-refund/#commentsFiled under: ,

It wasn't too hard to see this one coming after reports of "financial difficulties" and a potential early demise starting cropping up last month, but it looks like AT&T's CruiseCast in-car satellite service is now officially done for. According to RaySat COO Mike Grannan (AT&T's partner in the service), all new activations have now ceased, and existing customers will soon apparently be able to get a refund for the cost of installation, de-installation, equipment and service. For those keeping track, the service just launched in June of this year and, while no installed base numbers seem to be available, it doesn't appear to have caused much more than a blip on the radar, with it hindered in part by a hefty $1,300 up-front cost.

AT&T CruiseCast satellite service halts activations, will refund customers originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 15:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>att cruisecastAttCruisecastcruisecastin-car entertainmentin-car satelliteIn-carEntertainmentIn-carSatelliteraysatsatellitesatellite serviceSatelliteServiceshutdownTue, 03 Nov 2009 15:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Analyst: More HDTV owners getting a steady diet of high definition for every day viewing]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/11/02/analyst-more-hdtv-owners-getting-a-steady-diet-of-high-definiti/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/11/02/analyst-more-hdtv-owners-getting-a-steady-diet-of-high-definiti/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/11/02/analyst-more-hdtv-owners-getting-a-steady-diet-of-high-definiti/#commentsFiled under:

Last seen belatedly dubbing HDTV "game changing" for 2008, analytical firm Knowledge Networks is back with its latest breaking observation, finding owners are 65% more likely now than they were two years ago to say they are watching HD programming daily. Up from 26% in an '07 survey to 43%, we sadly noted that amount of people that always check for the high definition feed instead of SD rose only slightly from 61% to 68% among the 510 surveyed. Seeing fair and balanced numbers on the appeal of stretch-o-vision (we already know how you feel about it) would have been nice, but check the press release to see the stats networks and advertisers are probably checking before deciding to spring for HD specifically broken down across genre and gender.

Analyst: More HDTV owners getting a steady diet of high definition for every day viewing originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 02 Nov 2009 14:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analysthdtvKnowledge NetworksKnowledgeNetworkspollstatisticsviewersviewingMon, 02 Nov 2009 14:43:00 EST<![CDATA[Kanex Mini DisplayPort Adapter will take your Mac mini to HDMI town]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/10/05/kanex-mini-displayport-adapter-will-bring-your-mac-mini-to-hdmi/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/10/05/kanex-mini-displayport-adapter-will-bring-your-mac-mini-to-hdmi/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/10/05/kanex-mini-displayport-adapter-will-bring-your-mac-mini-to-hdmi/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Kanex Mini DisplayPort Adapter will bring your Mac Mini to HDMI town
Your Mac mini cranks out its video via DisplayPort and audio via a mini Toslink. Chances are your home entertainment system doesn't like either of those. It will, however, like the Kanex Mini DisplayPort Adapter, which can turn a DisplayPort video signal into a 1080p signal over HDMI, and will even integrate either digital or analog audio into the mix. It's USB powered, so there's no need for a clunky power adapter, and while $70 isn't particularly cheap for a chubby cable ($50 for the USB analog audio model), it's about the cleanest way to get your Mini pumping tunes and vids through your system.

[Via The Unofficial Apple Weblog]

Kanex Mini DisplayPort Adapter will take your Mac mini to HDMI town originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 05 Oct 2009 09:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apple mac miniAppleMacMinidisplayporthdmikanexkanex mini displayport adapterKanexMiniDisplayportAdaptermacmac miniMacMinimini displayportmini displayport adaptermini toslinkMiniDisplayportMiniDisplayportAdapterMiniToslinktoslinkMon, 05 Oct 2009 09:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Livestream Livepack: a 'satellite television truck in a backpack']]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/30/livestream-livepack-a-satellite-television-truck-in-a-backpack/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/30/livestream-livepack-a-satellite-television-truck-in-a-backpack/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/30/livestream-livepack-a-satellite-television-truck-in-a-backpack/#commentsFiled under: , ,


"Game changing" is thrown around way too frequently these days, but man, this thing just might be. The Livepack is being described as "a satellite television truck in a backpack" by creator Livestream, and for all intents and purposes, it is. Put simply (or as simply as possible), the pack includes everything one would need to stream "HD quality" footage: encoding hardware, a Firewire cable and the real kicker, a built-in wireless connection with six load-balanced 3G modems over three carriers (AT&T, Verizon Wireless and Sprint if you have to know). Users simply provide their own camcorder, mash a button when it's show time, and out goes the signal. The Livepack can currently be rented for $2,500 per month (includes 30 hours of streaming) or $1,500 per month if you commit to a year-long agreement. So, who's up for showing the world their high school prom live in HD? Demo vid is after the break.

[Via Red Ferret]

Continue reading Livestream Livepack: a 'satellite television truck in a backpack'

Livestream Livepack: a 'satellite television truck in a backpack' originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 30 Sep 2009 17:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hd streamingHdStreamingLivepackLivestreamLiveUstreamstreamingwirelesswireless streamingWirelessStreamingWed, 30 Sep 2009 17:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Nokia, Samsung, Toshiba and Sony align on Mobile High-Definition Link]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/29/nokia-samsung-toshiba-and-sony-align-on-mobile-high-definition/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/29/nokia-samsung-toshiba-and-sony-align-on-mobile-high-definition/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/29/nokia-samsung-toshiba-and-sony-align-on-mobile-high-definition/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Say it with us now: "Yippee!" Why such joviality? We'll tell you why. Nokia, Samsung, Toshiba, Sony and Silicon Image have all teamed up to create yet another new connector, with this one hoping to forever harmonize the strained relationship between mobile phones / PMPs and high-def displays. The so-called Mobile High-Definition Interface Working Group is seeking to create a new "industry standard" for connecting handsets and other portable consumer electronics to HDTVs and displays, though we're still wondering why exactly we need a replacement for HDMI, DisplayLink and the forthcoming Light Peak so soon. As with most of these things, details about the actual product(s) are slim, but trust us, they're working on it. And they're working hard.

Nokia, Samsung, Toshiba and Sony align on Mobile High-Definition Link originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 29 Sep 2009 10:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adapterformathdtvMHLMobile High-Definition Linkmobile phoneMobileHigh-definitionLinkMobilePhonenokiapartnershipsamsungsilicon imageSiliconImagesonystandardtoshibaworking groupWorkingGroupTue, 29 Sep 2009 10:19:00 EST<![CDATA[GoPro releases first footage from 1080p HD Hero Wide helmet cam]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/29/gopro-releases-first-footage-from-1080p-hd-hero-wide-helmet-cam/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/29/gopro-releases-first-footage-from-1080p-hd-hero-wide-helmet-cam/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/29/gopro-releases-first-footage-from-1080p-hd-hero-wide-helmet-cam/#commentsFiled under: ,

GoPro releases first footage from 1080p HD Hero Wide helmet cam
GoPro announced its 1080p HD Hero Wide helmet cam earlier this year, back when people were jumping off of high things and speeding around other things whilst wearing helmets. Now the summer adventure season is drawing to a close, the winter one is starting to develop, and the company has released a series of high-def, high-adrenaline clips to show what that camera can do -- most filmed when the days were still long and the sun still high. Sadly the videos are not embeddable, but click on that read link for your morning dose of speed. The company has also released a good bit of information about the cam, that it's 30fps at the full 1080p or an optional 60fps mode at 720p. 720p footage is recorded at a particularly wide 170 degrees, while 1080p footage is slightly less wide (though still rather broad) 127. Also, the company promises that the microphone will actually be usable at speed, a rarity in this sort of device. It's all slated to ship this fall, and we look forward to putting one through its paces then.

GoPro releases first footage from 1080p HD Hero Wide helmet cam originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 29 Sep 2009 08:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1080p1080p helmet cam1080pHelmetCamgoprogopro hd hero wideGoproHdHeroWidehd hero wideHdHeroWidehelmet camHelmetCampov cameraPovCameraTue, 29 Sep 2009 08:51:00 EST<![CDATA[International HD news roundup]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/29/international-hd-news-roundup/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/29/international-hd-news-roundup/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/29/international-hd-news-roundup/#commentsFiled under:

Here at Engadget HD, we'd prefer not to just focus on high-def happenings in the US of A. Thus, we round up the best of the best from the international front each week and present it here, bundled together in a single, easy to digest list. If something went down in your corner of the globe over the past seven days (or few weeks,) let the rest of the world know it in comments. 'Til next week, Totsiens!

Read - TSN AND TSN2 ANNOUNCE 2009-10 NHL BROADCAST SCHEDULE
Read - Beijing to become first Chinese city to upgrade digital cable TV network
Read - China starts SD-HD simulcasting
Read - Beijing TV to roll out high definition program by end-Sept.
Read - Victorian Football League Grand Final Goes Live Across Australia In High Definition
Read - 'Hole' wins Venice 3-D film prize
Read - Canal Digitaal to Launch New HD Channels on ASTRA 23.5 Degrees East
Read - UK Broadcasters Want Freeview HD DRM'd To Tackle PVR Piracy
Read - Telecom New Zealand To Sell TiVo DVRs
Read - Foxtel to launch download service, 12 new channels
Read - Fox Sports 1, 2 and 3 head in to the High Definition era (Australia)
Read - MTS Allstream launches next-gen HDTV service (Canada)
Read - Freeview viewers reminded to retune (UK)
Read - Virgin Media brings Living content in HD (UK)
Read - Numericable launches MTV Box HD (France)
Read - GlobeCast deal delivers HD Champions League
Read - BBC Freeview DRM: The slightly less inflammatory truth

International HD news roundup originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 29 Sep 2009 05:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>globalinternationalinternational hd news roundupInternationalHdNewsRoundupnews roundupNewsRoundupTue, 29 Sep 2009 05:12:00 EST<![CDATA[Blockbuster announces cable VOD tie-ups, expanding CinemaNow OnDemand deal]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/22/blockbuster-announces-cable-vod-tie-ups-expanding-cinemanow-ond/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/22/blockbuster-announces-cable-vod-tie-ups-expanding-cinemanow-ond/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/22/blockbuster-announces-cable-vod-tie-ups-expanding-cinemanow-ond/#commentsFiled under: , ,

As a part of its "transformation to a Multi-Channel Brand" Blockbuster continues to use its name recognition to reach new markets, simultaneously trumpeting the success of a partnership with CinemaNow, resulting in Blockbuster OnDemand on Samsung HDTVs, Blu-ray players, as well as other hardware and soon, Motorola phones, while also easing into the cable video on-demand arena. In deals with Suddenlink and Mediacom via their VOD provider, Avail-TVN, they'll start off slowly by rebranding parts of their VOD service under the Blockbuster name, do some cross-promotion and then eventually take their relationship to the next level by allowing customers to search the rental giant's Blu-ray and DVD library for movies that might not be on VOD right now. The old dog seems willing to try anything to get back on top, but alone or all together, it's tough to see these strategies restoring the customer base Netflix and Redbox continue to eat away.

Read - Blockbuster Enters Strategic Alliance With Cable Operators Suddenlink Communications and Mediacom Communications

Continue reading Blockbuster announces cable VOD tie-ups, expanding CinemaNow OnDemand deal

Blockbuster announces cable VOD tie-ups, expanding CinemaNow OnDemand deal originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 22 Sep 2009 09:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blockbusterblockbuster on demandBlockbusterOnDemandconemanowmediacomrentalroxiosuddenlinkvodTue, 22 Sep 2009 09:26:00 EST<![CDATA[RealD figures designer glasses might help the acceptance of 3D]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/18/reald-figures-designer-glasses-might-help-the-acceptance-of-3d/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/18/reald-figures-designer-glasses-might-help-the-acceptance-of-3d/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/18/reald-figures-designer-glasses-might-help-the-acceptance-of-3d/#commentsFiled under:

The solution to consumers gripes over ill fitting and odd looking 3D eyewear? Offer up polarized lenses in designer frames, or even prescription strength for glasses-wearers. That's what some execs have suggested at the 3D Entertainment Summit, revealing plans for Gucci and other frames to hit stores ahead of the launch of Avatar in December. We're still anticipating serious sticker shock when 3D comes home next year, tacking on ultraexpensive options above the already hiked theater price seems like the perfect way to stop any momentum this trend has gained.

RealD figures designer glasses might help the acceptance of 3D originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 18 Sep 2009 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3d3d glasses3dGlasseseyewearguccipolarized lensesPolarizedLensesprescriptionreal dRealDFri, 18 Sep 2009 15:01:00 EST<![CDATA[The Metropolitan Opera's HD broadcasts still growing in season four]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/15/the-metropolitan-operas-hd-broadcasts-still-growing-in-season-f/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/15/the-metropolitan-operas-hd-broadcasts-still-growing-in-season-f/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/15/the-metropolitan-operas-hd-broadcasts-still-growing-in-season-f/#commentsFiled under:

Successful since it started a few years ago, The Metropolitan Opera is coming back with the fourth season of its The Met: Live in HD series. Starting October 10, this year's series expands to "nearly 500" theaters across the U.S. experiencing live and prerecorded high definition feeds several days a week. We'll probably just check out Aida via the streaming player at home , but for the full experience, hit the read link to find out where it's showing near you.

The Metropolitan Opera's HD broadcasts still growing in season four originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 15 Sep 2009 16:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>metropolitan operaMetropolitanOperaoperathe metthe met live in hdTheMetTheMetLiveInHdTue, 15 Sep 2009 16:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Will Apple announce anything for HD snobs today?]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/09/will-apple-announce-anything-for-hd-snobs-today/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/09/will-apple-announce-anything-for-hd-snobs-today/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/09/will-apple-announce-anything-for-hd-snobs-today/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Apple Rock n' Roll event

Sure, it is The Rock n' Roll event, but an HD snob can only hope there will be something for everyone in today's event. It isn't like there haven't been any rumors either. First up was the Blu-ray support in iTunes 9, then there was the updated Apple TV and the most recent is from a Harmon Kardon press release where we learned that the latest Bridge III iPod / iPhone dock and AVR 2600 and 3600 receivers can "play back HD video from iPod or iPhone products." You'd think at least one of these would have to be true -- especially with the Zune HD hitting the streets in less than a week. Personally we have our hopes up for Manage Copy support in iTunes, but we admit that we are just dreaming.

Will Apple announce anything for HD snobs today? originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 09 Sep 2009 11:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AppleApple TVAppleTvBlu-rayiPhoneiPodiTunesiTunes 9Itunes9Managed CopyManagedCopyWed, 09 Sep 2009 11:49:00 EST<![CDATA[New WiFi IR emitters from Global Cache´ get us excited about home automation]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/09/new-wifi-ir-emitters-from-global-cache-get-us-excited-about-hom/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/09/new-wifi-ir-emitters-from-global-cache-get-us-excited-about-hom/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/09/new-wifi-ir-emitters-from-global-cache-get-us-excited-about-hom/#commentsFiled under: ,

iTachWe've written about Global Cache´ before and we're sure anyone who's done a little home automation around the house has ran across them; but with the new iTach line just announced today, we'd bet the a whole lot more of you will get excited about the little company. While emitting IR or controlling an RS-232 device over the LAN is an old trick for this company, the latest line really takes it to the next level. The first thing we noticed was how much smaller the box was -- comes in handy when there isn't much room behind the TV -- but we quickly said who cares when we learned that WiFi was built-in. But even if you already have a network drop behind your TV you'll be happy to hear that the new line also offers PoE. Those two features alone are enough to get us excited, but the fact that an IR learner is now built-in (used to be an extra $75) and the device is no longer limited to a single connection (so you can have up to eight iPod Touch remotes now). Top all that off with a lower starting price, and being user upgradable, and you have our home automation gears working in overdrive.

New WiFi IR emitters from Global Cache´ get us excited about home automation originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 09 Sep 2009 09:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>GC-100Global CacheGlobalCacheiTachPoEWiFiWed, 09 Sep 2009 09:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft and Tesco strike up 'virtual DVD' partnership]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/09/microsoft-and-tesco-strike-up-virtual-dvd-partnership/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/09/microsoft-and-tesco-strike-up-virtual-dvd-partnership/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/09/microsoft-and-tesco-strike-up-virtual-dvd-partnership/#commentsFiled under:


Starting this autumn -- which is sort of like now -- Tesco stores in the UK will be offering "virtual DVDs" to customers who purchase certain home video titles. Promising no less than a "DVD-equivalent" experience, the new service will be replete with all the menus, copyright warnings and extra bits you'd find on the disc itself, plus additional exclusive content and movie viewing parties with online chat. We're not entirely sure films need all the added interactivity Microsoft has cooked up, but ambitions are to expand the bonus content and to offer the service in other markets "eventually." And hey, seeing as it's based on Silverlight, all that good stuff will be available on Mac too.

Microsoft and Tesco strike up 'virtual DVD' partnership originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 09 Sep 2009 06:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>downloaddownloadabledownloadable contentdownloadable moviesdownloadable-contentDownloadableContentDownloadableMoviesdownloadsDVDMicrosoftMicrosoft SilverlightMicrosoftSilverlightSilverlightTescoUKunited kingdomUnitedKingdomvirtual DVDVirtualDvdWed, 09 Sep 2009 06:24:00 EST<![CDATA[CEDIA 2009: Super 3D Special Platinum Series Edition]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/08/cedia-2009-super-3d-special-platinum-series-edition/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/08/cedia-2009-super-3d-special-platinum-series-edition/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/08/cedia-2009-super-3d-special-platinum-series-edition/#commentsFiled under:


This year for its 20th Anniversary CEDIA shifts from Denver to Atlanta, and we're already on the ground ready to let you know what this show is bringing to the consumer electronics world. Think info on new televisions, receivers, speakers, high end custom install equipment and everything in between is something you'd be interested in? Keep an eye on Engadget HD, though we had to nix the live podcast this week, we'll be bringing booth tours, hands ons as well as live coverage of Microsoft's press conference Wednesday night and any other surprising updates we find out about. Let us know in the comments if you've got a particular point of interest, some time in the next four days we'll be able to swing by and get your questions answered.

CEDIA 2009: Super 3D Special Platinum Series Edition originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 19:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20th anniversary20thAnniversaryatlantacediacedia 2009Cedia2009Tue, 08 Sep 2009 19:18:00 EST<![CDATA[New talking TV technology assists the visually impaired ]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/06/new-talking-tv-technology-assists-the-visually-impaired/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/06/new-talking-tv-technology-assists-the-visually-impaired/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/06/new-talking-tv-technology-assists-the-visually-impaired/#commentsFiled under: ,

Ocean Blue SoftwareIt is easy to forget that just because you can't see very well doesn't mean you don't want to watch TV -- or at least listen. So for those in the need, Ocean Blue Software and the charity RNIB are going to bring a "talking TV" to the market later this year. The long and the short of it is that in the age of on-screen program guides and DVRs, that just being able to find the channel and volume buttons on the remote isn't enough, so to make things easier this new technology will give voice feedback for on screen menus and guide data. Personally we'd also suggest a big TV and maybe a STB with a great zoom feature -- but then again, we'd always suggest the biggest TV you can't afford, so perhaps that goes without saying.

New talking TV technology assists the visually impaired originally appeared on Engadget HD on Sun, 06 Sep 2009 16:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>talking tvTalkingTvvisually impairedVisuallyImpairedSun, 06 Sep 2009 16:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Mitsubishi unveils latest Diamond Vision LED HD screens at Nakayama Racecourse]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/31/mitsubishi-unveils-latest-diamond-vision-led-hd-screens-at-nakay/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/31/mitsubishi-unveils-latest-diamond-vision-led-hd-screens-at-nakay/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/31/mitsubishi-unveils-latest-diamond-vision-led-hd-screens-at-nakay/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Just in time to remind us that immense LED HDTV screens aren't only in Texas, Mitsubishi has announced it's installation of (the likely less-problematic) Turf Vision 1 & 2 at Nakayama Racecourse. At around 4,000 square feet, the larger Turf Vision 1 isn't quite as daunting as the pair of screens hung at Cowboy Stadium or as long as previous world beater still residing at Tokyo Racecourse, but as you can see from the pictures, what other screen would be right to view footage beamed from that track to this one? These screens go live September 12,we'll save a few betting slips for you.

Continue reading Mitsubishi unveils latest Diamond Vision LED HD screens at Nakayama Racecourse

Mitsubishi unveils latest Diamond Vision LED HD screens at Nakayama Racecourse originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 31 Aug 2009 23:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>diamond visionDiamondVisionhd scoreboardHdScoreboardhorse racingHorseRacingjapanmitsuibishinakayama racecourseNakayamaRacecoursescoreboardMon, 31 Aug 2009 23:38:00 EST<![CDATA[NFL to let Cowboys giant HD scoreboard stay as-is, at least for 2009]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/30/nfl-to-let-cowboys-giant-hd-scoreboard-stay-as-is-at-least-for/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/30/nfl-to-let-cowboys-giant-hd-scoreboard-stay-as-is-at-least-for/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/30/nfl-to-let-cowboys-giant-hd-scoreboard-stay-as-is-at-least-for/#commentsFiled under:

The NFL has ruled on the Dallas Cowboys punt blocking super-sized videoboard deciding to leave it where it is, 90 feet above the playing field, at least for this season. That's no surprise to us, on the last EHD Podcast we figured no one would be able to tell Jerry Jones there's a problem with his billion dollar baby, obstructed view seating and all. So far there's just the one strike in the books, but if it happens again, it is a dead ball and the clock and down will both be reset. Haven't seen the punt heard round the world yet? Check after the break for a clip of the kick that caused all the commotion, though we're still waiting for a ruling on whether or not Gears of War tournaments on the thing are still legal.

Continue reading NFL to let Cowboys giant HD scoreboard stay as-is, at least for 2009

NFL to let Cowboys giant HD scoreboard stay as-is, at least for 2009 originally appeared on Engadget HD on Sun, 30 Aug 2009 19:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cowboys stadiumCowboysStadiumdallas cowboysDallasCowboyshd scoreboardHdScoreboardpuntscoreboardSun, 30 Aug 2009 19:16:00 EST<![CDATA[1080p Android demo'd, set-top boxes prepare for a new master]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/28/1080p-android-demod-set-top-boxes-prepare-for-a-new-master/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/28/1080p-android-demod-set-top-boxes-prepare-for-a-new-master/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/28/1080p-android-demod-set-top-boxes-prepare-for-a-new-master/#commentsFiled under: ,


It is done. MIPS Technologies has demonstrated its enhanced implementation of Android running in 1080p via extended libraries to support hardware graphics acceleration and decoding on Sigma Designs hardware, a portent of set-top boxes yet to come. Of course, without any video or pictures or video of the blessed event (ISB Corp's previous OMAP based effort is pictured above) it's hard to tell why Android coming to TV is such a great idea, if its cousin widgets are any indication, there's a chance of being high on pre-release hype but low on desirability once it reaches the market. Still, the Open Embedded Software Foundation pledges to continue on shoehorning Android into devices beyond the mobile handset, but if it's shut down by a band of torch wielding villagers demanding the monster be put down, don't say we didn't warn you.

[Via SlashGear & LinuxforDevices]

1080p Android demo'd, set-top boxes prepare for a new master originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 28 Aug 2009 16:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1080pandroidgooglemips technologiesMipsTechnologiesoesfoperating systemOperatingSystemset top boxesSetTopBoxessigmasigma designsSigmaDesignssocFri, 28 Aug 2009 16:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Blockbuster DVD kiosks creeping into New England supermarkets]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/28/blockbuster-dvd-kiosks-creeping-into-new-england-supermarkets/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/28/blockbuster-dvd-kiosks-creeping-into-new-england-supermarkets/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/28/blockbuster-dvd-kiosks-creeping-into-new-england-supermarkets/#commentsFiled under:

Look out Redbox, Blockbuster is coming. The rental giant is expanding its test program with NCR, planning to deploy kiosks in all 57 Big Y locations in Massachussetts and Connecticut by September 3, with a familiar $1 per night pricing scheme. No word on any Blu-ray discs being tucked into these automated movie towers, and while 57 locations is hardly on the level of Redbox's thousands of self service locations, we wonder if this is just the beginning of a push to the "10,000 kiosks installed within 18 months" goal stated by NCR CEO Bill Nuti a year ago, but we suppose we'll know they're big time when the movie studios start suing.

Blockbuster DVD kiosks creeping into New England supermarkets originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 28 Aug 2009 10:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blockbusterblockbuster expressBlockbusterExpresskioskkiosksncrrentalFri, 28 Aug 2009 10:52:00 EST<![CDATA[The next Batman flick could be all-IMAX]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/26/the-next-batman-flick-could-be-all-imax/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/26/the-next-batman-flick-could-be-all-imax/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/26/the-next-batman-flick-could-be-all-imax/#commentsFiled under: ,


It's absolutely no secret that The Dark Knight director Chris Nolan is a big fan of IMAX, the latest rumors indicate his third Batman flick could make the jump from part-time to full time. The IMAX scenes fom The Dark Knight came home in frame filling 16x9 to the delight of some and the ire of others, but perhaps a movie that didn't switch between aspect ratios would have a more universally positive response. Of course, Ain't It Cool News reports this could all fall through despite the best of intentions, but, are you excited by the potential of 100% IMAX feature films?

[Via Splash Page]

The next Batman flick could be all-IMAX originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 26 Aug 2009 13:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>70mmbatmanchistopher nolanChistopherNolanimaxthe dark knightTheDarkKnightWed, 26 Aug 2009 13:09:00 EST<![CDATA[Poll: Which HDTV feature are you least concerned about?]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/23/poll-which-hdtv-feature-are-you-least-concerned-about/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/23/poll-which-hdtv-feature-are-you-least-concerned-about/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/23/poll-which-hdtv-feature-are-you-least-concerned-about/#commentsFiled under: ,


It's that time of year, from now 'til CES a constant stream of new displays will finally be launched, touting specs, features and bullet points. Of course, once it's time to buy a new one we'll all have our own list of priorities, but which one is the least likely to make you consider a certain model? Whether it's a Hz race that doesn't concern you plasma fans, a complete disregard for useless contrast ratio measurements, or if you've already decided widgets aren't for you, let us know.

View Poll

Poll: Which HDTV feature are you least concerned about? originally appeared on Engadget HD on Sun, 23 Aug 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>backlightingcontrast ratioContrastRatiofeatureshdtvhzpollSun, 23 Aug 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dallas Cowboys HD scoreboard hanging too low?]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/22/dallas-cowboys-hd-scoreboard-hanging-too-low/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/22/dallas-cowboys-hd-scoreboard-hanging-too-low/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/22/dallas-cowboys-hd-scoreboard-hanging-too-low/#commentsFiled under: ,


It's not necessarily on the level of Yankee Stadium's jetstream, but the new Dallas Cowboys stadium has its own problems. The massive HDTV strung up over the field was hit by a punt during the first NFL game played there last night. So far, by the rules that will result in a do-over, while owner Jerry Jones says there are no plans to move the screen and he doubts anyone will hit it during the regular season. Check the video evidence embedded after the break, somehow we doubt this is the last time this happens.

Continue reading Dallas Cowboys HD scoreboard hanging too low?

Dallas Cowboys HD scoreboard hanging too low? originally appeared on Engadget HD on Sat, 22 Aug 2009 16:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cowboyscowboys stadiumCowboysStadiumdallas cowboysDallasCowboysfootballhd score boardHdScoreBoardjerry jonesJerryJonesnflpuntscoreboardSat, 22 Aug 2009 16:02:00 EST<![CDATA[International HD news roundup]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/17/international-hd-news-roundup/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/17/international-hd-news-roundup/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/17/international-hd-news-roundup/#commentsFiled under:


Here at Engadget HD, we'd prefer not to just focus on high-def happenings in the US of A. Thus, we round up the best of the best from the international front each week and present it here, bundled together in a single, easy to digest list. If something went down in your corner of the globe over the past seven days, let the rest of the world know it in comments. 'Til next week, Slán agaibh!

Read - Sky TV moves - Prime now on Freeview (New Zealand)
Read - ESPN's Premier League package to be shown in UK, Ireland
Read - It's official: Premiere now called Sky
Read - Experience UAAP and NCAA in HD with SkyCable (Phillippines)
Read - Brazil Leads in High Definition TV Channel Launches
Read - Chorus ntl and ESPN announce new carriage deal (Ireland)
Read - Tiscali introduces ESPN to Tiscali TV bringing exclusive football coverage to more UK homes
Read - Sky TV gazumps TiVo with remote recording (New Zealand)

International HD news roundup originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 17 Aug 2009 04:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>globalinternationalinternational hd news roundupInternationalHdNewsRoundupnews roundupNewsRoundupMon, 17 Aug 2009 04:12:00 EST<![CDATA[HD channel expansion roundup]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/16/hd-channel-expansion-roundup/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/16/hd-channel-expansion-roundup/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/16/hd-channel-expansion-roundup/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Once upon a time, a smattering of new HD channels in one major metropolitan area was a huge deal. Nowadays, it's almost expected that one area or another will experience some HD expansion each week. In order to keep things nice and tidy around here, we deliver high-def expansions, market expansions and anything else dealing with HD channel growth right here. If we missed an area that you're familiar with, drop us a line in comments so everyone can catch up. The more the merrier, we say!

Read - Time Warner pulls area CBS station from programming (Greenville, N.C.)
Read - Comcast to Launch 13 New High-Definition Channels (Nashville)
Read - DIRECTV Delivers Local HD Programming To Customers in Shreveport, La.
New Comcast HD Channels in Jacksonville Fl. - Bravo HD (Ch. 430), Nickelodeon HD (Ch. 443), Spike HD (Ch. 452), Lifetime HD (Ch. 459), CNBC HD (Ch. 470), QVC HD (Ch. 471)

HD channel expansion roundup originally appeared on Engadget HD on Sun, 16 Aug 2009 22:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>channelchannelsEPGlineupnews roundupNewsRoundupSun, 16 Aug 2009 22:17:00 EST<![CDATA[International HD news roundup]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/10/international-hd-news-roundup/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/10/international-hd-news-roundup/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/10/international-hd-news-roundup/#commentsFiled under:


Here at Engadget HD, we'd prefer not to just focus on high-def happenings in the US of A. Thus, we round up the best of the best from the international front each week and present it here, bundled together in a single, easy to digest list. If something went down in your corner of the globe over the past seven days, let the rest of the world know it in comments. 'Til next week, Doei!

Read - Discovery Upgrades Miami Facility For HD
Read - ESPN secures more football TV rights
Read - Virgin Media and ESPN Announce Channel Deal Ahead of Premier League Football Season
Read - Virgin Media and Channel 4 Bring 4HD to Millions of TV Screens
Read - Abu Dhabi Media Company to launch high-definition television channel in October
Read - BSkyB profits as high definition TV attracts new customers
Read - Govt clears DD's Rs 1.65 bn HDTV programme (India)
Read - Chorus Launches High Definition Digital TV service in Ireland
Read - Freeview claims 50% of viewers will be able to receive high-definition channel in time for football tournament
Read - ITV bringing ITV1 HD to Freeview
Read - Astra offers HD+ to existing HD households

International HD news roundup originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 10 Aug 2009 06:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>globalinternationalinternational hd news roundupInternationalHdNewsRoundupnews roundupNewsRoundupMon, 10 Aug 2009 06:44:00 EST<![CDATA[HD channel expansion roundup]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/10/hd-channel-expansion-roundup/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/10/hd-channel-expansion-roundup/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/10/hd-channel-expansion-roundup/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Once upon a time, a smattering of new HD channels in one major metropolitan area was a huge deal. Nowadays, it's almost expected that one area or another will experience some HD expansion each week. In order to keep things nice and tidy around here, we deliver high-def expansions, market expansions and anything else dealing with HD channel growth right here. If we missed an area that you're familiar with, drop us a line in comments so everyone can catch up. The more the merrier, we say!

Read - Comcast Completes DOCSIS 3.0 Rollout In San Francisco
Read - DIRECTV Delivers Local HD Programming To Customers in Roanoke-Lynchburg, Va.
Read - Evolution Seeks FCC Waiver For Sub-$100 HD Set-Top
Read - Metropolitan Opera goes high-definition in Lincoln Center Plaza
Read - Charter's Stateline Customers Get Four More HD Channels (Illinois)
Read - Charter to add four more HD channels Wednesday (Wisconsin)
Read - Pact puts Channel 58's hi-def signal on DirecTV (Milwaukee) [Thanks, Prockman]
Read - UH sports package going high-definition (Hawaii)
Read - Comcast changes channels (Panama City)
Read - Bright House will add 15 HD channels (Orlando)
Read - Major Channel Realignment In Southwest Ohio (Time Warner Cable) [Thanks, DaytonGuy]
39 new HD Channels in Atlanta [Thanks, John W.]

HD channel expansion roundup originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 10 Aug 2009 02:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>channelchannelsEPGlineupnews roundupNewsRoundupMon, 10 Aug 2009 02:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Media bigwigs declare that free TV "is broken"]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/09/media-bigwigs-declare-that-free-tv-is-broken/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/09/media-bigwigs-declare-that-free-tv-is-broken/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/09/media-bigwigs-declare-that-free-tv-is-broken/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Chase CareyWelcome to the party friends! Not sure why it took you so long to realize that DVRs were going to break your model, but we're glad you finally made it. Both News Corp. COO Chase Carey and NBC Universal chief Jeff Zucker have recently voiced their concerns about broadcast TV as we know it. The good news boys is that now that you have your head out of the sand, you can start looking at new ways to use technology to reach your real customers -- as opposed to selling content via a middle man. We don't see broadcast TV going away though, in fact we think we will actually see more live events make their way back to broadcast TV -- since live events are relatively DVR proof -- while at the same time, scripted content will find a new home. So do us a favor and start offering subscriptions directly to us and we'll help turn the cable companies into bit providers before they know what hit 'em.

Media bigwigs declare that free TV "is broken" originally appeared on Engadget HD on Sun, 09 Aug 2009 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Sun, 09 Aug 2009 19:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Poll: What's the worst mistake HD channels make?]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/09/poll-whats-the-worst-mistake-hd-channels-make/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/09/poll-whats-the-worst-mistake-hd-channels-make/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/09/poll-whats-the-worst-mistake-hd-channels-make/#commentsFiled under: ,


We've discussed it again and again, the ills done by so-called HD channels against perfectly good content, whether it's passing off SD as high definition with Fox Widescreen, vomit-inducing stretching on TNT & TBS or the inexcusable cropping, zooming and pan & scanning of movies broadcast on AMC and HBO. But which one is the worst? Let your voice be heard, and if we forgot anything drop us a line in the comments.

View Poll

Poll: What's the worst mistake HD channels make? originally appeared on Engadget HD on Sun, 09 Aug 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aspect ratioAspectRatiocroppingfox widescreenFoxWidescreenmistakeoarpan and scanPanAndScanpollpollsstretchstretch-o-visionzoomingSun, 09 Aug 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Steven Soderbergh calls out the aspect ratio villains: HBO, AMC - We're talking about you]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/07/steven-soderbergh-calls-out-the-aspect-ratio-villains-hbo-amc/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/07/steven-soderbergh-calls-out-the-aspect-ratio-villains-hbo-amc/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/07/steven-soderbergh-calls-out-the-aspect-ratio-villains-hbo-amc/#commentsFiled under: , ,


You've gritted your teeth every time TNT flips the switch on its dreaded stretch-o-vision, and we've done our part to explain why proper aspect ratios are so important, and yet few have taken heed. Perhaps director Steven Soderbergh can succeed where we have failed, railing against cable channels that, instead of using HDTV to deliver movies the way they were meant to be seen, are often cropping and squeezing to give what they think viewers want instead. The worst network? AMC. Not only is it guilty of pan scanning like HBO, but the advertisements tease the movies in their correct aspect ratio, the cruelest bait and switch of all. Check out the article for a full explanation from behind the lens of why correct treatment of aspect ratios matters, and please, tell a friend to tell a friend.

[Thanks, Chevelleman & Fortified Live for the image]

Steven Soderbergh calls out the aspect ratio villains: HBO, AMC - We're talking about you originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 07 Aug 2009 20:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>16 x 916X92.40amc hdAmcHdaspect ratioAspectRatiohbohbo hdHboHdsteven soderberghStevenSoderberghFri, 07 Aug 2009 20:23:00 EST<![CDATA[FiOS TV expansions: August 2, 2009]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/02/fios-tv-expansions-august-2-2009/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/02/fios-tv-expansions-august-2-2009/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/02/fios-tv-expansions-august-2-2009/#commentsFiled under: ,


This week's FiOS TV roundup is all about milestones, first up is FiOS TV itself, which Verizon reported in its 2Q 2009 highlights has added 300,000 subscribers to a total of 2.5 million. Also notable is that it's been a year since FiOS was first operating in New York City, and, for those apartment dwellers still missing out, there's new technology on the way that might bring it to your residence even faster. Still, if FiOSTV isn't ready where you live but DirecTV is, there's a new bundle that could help you same some dough, while Hull, Massachusetts nabs the lone shoutout, as it granted Verizon a cable franchise last week.

Read - TV Choice and Competition Near for Residents of Hull, Mass.
Read - Verizon and DIRECTV Team Up to Offer Money-Saving Bundles
Read - Verizon FiOS TV Celebrates First Year of Operation in New York City
Read - Verizon Begins Deploying Breakthrough Optical Technology That Saves Space and Makes It Easier to Install FiOS Services in Apartment Buildings
Read - Verizon Reports Revenue Growth and Continued Improvement in Cash Flow in 2Q

FiOS TV expansions: August 2, 2009 originally appeared on Engadget HD on Sun, 02 Aug 2009 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>expansionsfiosfios tvFiosTvverizonSun, 02 Aug 2009 15:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Verizon rolling out more apartment-friendly hardware]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/07/31/verizon-rolling-out-more-apartment-friendly-hardware/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/07/31/verizon-rolling-out-more-apartment-friendly-hardware/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/07/31/verizon-rolling-out-more-apartment-friendly-hardware/#commentsFiled under: ,

Verizon installer
We can't imagine who would turn down Verizon's FiOS service because the required hardware to get fiber right into their home was too big; given the option, we'd make room -- like an addition to the home if necessary. Still, we won't argue with anything that opens FiOS up to more people, and Verizon is dropping new, smaller optical network terminal (ONT) hardware that should make the fiber service more attractive to MDU (multi-dwelling unit) properties in particular. Two new models convert the data-laden light pulses into electrical signals suitable for home consumption and measure a scant 1.25x8.5x5.5-inches and 2.5x9x8.25-inches from Alcatel-Lucent and Motorola, respectively; good news for space-conscious apartment dwellers. The good news for installers is that these new boxes are easier to install. Unfortunately, not so easy that Verizon is expanding FiOS into our market yet, but maybe you'll have better luck.

Verizon rolling out more apartment-friendly hardware originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 31 Jul 2009 19:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alcatel-lucentfiosfios tvFiosTvmdumotorolamulti-dwelling unitMulti-dwellingUnitontoptical network terminalOpticalNetworkTerminalverizonverizon fiosVerizonFiosFri, 31 Jul 2009 19:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Modern Warfare 2, Halo 3: ODST are both not-quite HD games]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/07/31/modern-warfare-2-halo-3-odst-are-both-not-quite-hd-games/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/07/31/modern-warfare-2-halo-3-odst-are-both-not-quite-hd-games/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/07/31/modern-warfare-2-halo-3-odst-are-both-not-quite-hd-games/#commentsFiled under: ,


It's been nearly two years since Halo 3 and Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare were released and disappointed the "HD era" by not quite making it up to 720 lines of resolution. Two years later, it appears their sequels due this fall, Halo 3: ODST and Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2, won't be able to do any better. In separate articles, developers confirmed both will match the resolution of the original games (1024x600 for Call of Duty, 1152x640 for Halo.) Honestly, we have the same perspective we did then, there's a lot more to image quality than just resolution and a peek at a trailer for either game will reveal plenty of visual tricks to keep the eyes entertained (if you think a measly 120p's will pull Editor Emeritus Ryan Block away from CoD, think again) but, c'mon guys, the so-called HD era is four years deep, if Bizarre could figure out how to squeeze 720p res and better graphics while moving from Project Gotham Racing 3 to PGR4, why can't you?

[Via Evil Avatar & again]

Read - Halo 3: ODST not 720p admits Bungie
Read - Modern Warfare 2 will render at 600p

Modern Warfare 2, Halo 3: ODST are both not-quite HD games originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 31 Jul 2009 14:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>600pcall of dutycall of duty 4CallOfDutyCallOfDuty4gameshalohalo 3Halo3modern warfare 2ModernWarfare2playstation 3Playstation3ps3videogamesxbox 360Xbox360Fri, 31 Jul 2009 14:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Engadget HD's recession antidote: win a Netgear MoCA Coax-Ethernet adapter]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/07/29/engadget-hds-recession-antidote-win-a-netgear-moca-coax-ethern/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/07/29/engadget-hds-recession-antidote-win-a-netgear-moca-coax-ethern/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/07/29/engadget-hds-recession-antidote-win-a-netgear-moca-coax-ethern/#commentsFiled under: ,

Netgear MoCA Coax-Ethernet adapter
This whole global economic crisis, and its resulting massive loss of jobs got us thinking. We here at Engadget HD didn't want to stand helplessly by, announcing every new round of misery without giving anything back -- so we decided to take the opportunity to spread a little positivity. Up for grabs today is the Netgear MoCA Coax-Ethernet adapter, which makes it easy to setup an high speed network anywhere you already have coax cable run. Best of all it does it without interfering with your cable TV. Read the rules below (no skimming -- we're omniscient and can tell when you've skimmed) and get commenting! Hooray for free stuff!

Big thanks to Netgear for providing the cheer!

The rules:
  • Leave a comment below. Any comment will do, but if you want to share your proposal for "fixing" the world economy, that'd be sweet too.
  • You may only enter this specific giveaway once. If you enter this giveaway more than once you'll be automatically disqualified, etc. (Yes, we have robots that thoroughly check to ensure fairness.)
  • If you enter more than once, only activate one comment. This is pretty self explanatory. Just be careful and you'll be fine.
  • Contest is open to anyone in the 50 States, 18 or older! Sorry, we don't make this rule (we hate excluding anyone), so be mad at our lawyers and contest laws if you have to be mad.
  • Winner will be chosen randomly. The winner will receive one (1) Netgear MoCA Coax-Ethernet adapter. Approximate value is $200.
  • If you are chosen, you will be notified by email. Winners must respond within three days of the end of the contest. If you do not respond within that period, another winner will be chosen.
  • Entries can be submitted until July, 29th, at 11:59PM ET. Good luck!
  • Full rules can be found here.

Engadget HD's recession antidote: win a Netgear MoCA Coax-Ethernet adapter originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 29 Jul 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>MCAB1001MoCANetgearNetgear MCAB1001Netgear MoCA Coax-Ethernet adapterNetgearMcab1001NetgearMocaCoax-ethernetAdapterWed, 29 Jul 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DTV converter coupon deadline is July 31, anyone still need one?]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/07/28/dtv-converter-coupon-deadline-is-july-31-anyone-still-need-one/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/07/28/dtv-converter-coupon-deadline-is-july-31-anyone-still-need-one/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/07/28/dtv-converter-coupon-deadline-is-july-31-anyone-still-need-one/#commentsFiled under: ,


In case you still needed a digital TV heads up, the end of this month is your last opportunity to nab a $40 coupon for a converter box. Seeing as how they're actually available, and the DTV switch has been in effect for a few weeks you'd think anyone in need would have long looked into this already, but just in case you're waiting until the last moment, the L.A. Times mentions July 31 is the cutoff. Anyone know someone that went from OTA bliss to a blank TV June 12 and still hasn't upgraded yet?

[Via L.A. Times]

DTV converter coupon deadline is July 31, anyone still need one? originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 28 Jul 2009 13:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analog shutoffAnalogShutoffconvertercoupondigital tvDigitalTvdtvfccTue, 28 Jul 2009 13:49:00 EST<![CDATA[HD channel expansion roundup]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/07/28/hd-channel-expansion-roundup/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/07/28/hd-channel-expansion-roundup/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/07/28/hd-channel-expansion-roundup/#commentsFiled under: ,


Once upon a time, a smattering of new HD channels in one major metropolitan area was a huge deal. Nowadays, it's almost expected that one area or another will experience some HD expansion each week. In order to keep things nice and tidy around here, we deliver high-def expansions, market expansions and anything else dealing with HD channel growth right here. If we missed an area that you're familiar with, drop us a line in comments so everyone can catch up. The more the merrier, we say!

Read - More high-definition channels roll out (Great Falls, Montana)
Read - ATMC Launches CNN HD (North Carolina)
Read - Cable high-def on hold at WKTV (Utica, NY)
Read - Comcast customers to see up to 64 new HD channels (Washington, Thanks, Tyler)
Read - RCN Brings Digital Revolution to Lehigh Valley, PA Cable TV Customers in September; Providing 100 High Definition (HD) Channels to Customers
Read - AT&T U-verse TV Adds ShortsHD and New International Channels
Read - More HD Coming For Puerto Rico
Read - Comcast Expanding HD in Bay Area
Comcast adding History, CNN, USA, Discovery, Animal Planet, AMC in New Jersey (Thanks, Margo)
Comcast adding Biography HD, G4 HD, Lifetime HD, Lifetime Movie Network HD, MTV HD, VH1 HD, Comedy Central HD, Spike HD, Nickelodeon HD, The Weather Channel HD, IFC HD, WE-HD, FUSE HD, Planet Green HD, TVOne HD, and Style HD in Connecticut September 1 (Thanks, Michael)
Read - Bright House Networks in Michigan adds 10 HD channels (Thanks, Kyle)

HD channel expansion roundup originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 28 Jul 2009 00:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atmcbright house networksBrightHouseNetworkschannelchannelscomcastEPGlineupnews roundupNewsRounduprcnshortshdTue, 28 Jul 2009 00:13:00 EST<![CDATA[Mom installs 98-inch screen in son's bedroom ceiling, deservedly garners award nomination]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/07/27/mom-installs-98-inch-screen-in-sons-bedroom-ceiling-deservedly/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/07/27/mom-installs-98-inch-screen-in-sons-bedroom-ceiling-deservedly/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/07/27/mom-installs-98-inch-screen-in-sons-bedroom-ceiling-deservedly/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Thought you had it all set with a 14-inch TV and an NES in your room as a kid? Then you might want to look away for a minute, lest your childhood memories be diminished. Everyone else can take a good look at this 98-inch screen that Patti Deni had installed flush in the ceiling of her son's bedroom. At the center of the setup is an NEC projector paired with some Draper projection mirrors, which fills that 98-inch StarGlas60 display with some full HD images than can be viewed from just about any angle. As you might expect, however, this wasn't exactly the easiest of installs, and apparently even involved reframing and reinforcing the ceiling. No word on any mom of the year awards just yet, but the setup itself has at least attracted the attention of Electronic House's Home of the Year awards.

Mom installs 98-inch screen in son's bedroom ceiling, deservedly garners award nomination originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 27 Jul 2009 16:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>big screenBigScreenceilingceiling-mounted screenCeiling-mountedScreenexcessexcessiveprojectorstarglass60Mon, 27 Jul 2009 16:28:00 EST