Turn your iPad into a television with Elgato’s EyeTV Mobile‎

By: Aseem Gaurav on September 1, 2012


German-based company Elgato, well known for its range of digital television tuners, has unveiled a new version of its EyeTV Mobile product for the iPhone and iPad at Germany's IFA 2012 tradeshow.

EyeTV Mobile is remarkable in the sense that it connects to your iPad (2nd, 3rd generation and iPhone 4S) and receives television signals directly from its telescopic aerial. The new EyeTV Mobile is just half the size of any other TV tuner for the dock connector, due to its highly efficient chip technology. The device can be used with a variety of aerials to get the best possible reception both at home and on the move. The dongle will be available in September at a price of roughly $143 through Elgato's online shop and resellers.

Moreover, if you want the same facility on your Android handset, you can pick up the EyeTV Micro in September for roughly $87. The device will easily connect to the Micro USB port in any smartphone or tablet. You can even connect it to a desktop PC using the included USB adapter cable, and Mac or PC software. Remember, your Android device need to have a Dual Core Processor and should be running on Android 4.0.3 (Ice Cream Sandwich) version.

During the tradeshow, the company also announced Game Capture HD, a new product that allows you to record and share PlayStation 3 or Xbox 360 gameplay using a Mac or PC. The recorded videos can then be played back and shared from your PC. The device will cost users roughly $286.

Bing adds Facebook friends photo search feature

By: Aseem Gaurav on August 31, 2012


Bing's social search integration with Facebook has just got stronger. The search engine has added a new feature that allows users to search and browse through their friends' photos. You can use this feature only after authorizing the Bing app.

Notably the search is not available directly from the Bing homepage and you must go to www.bing.com/friendsphotos to proceed further.

The search results are presented in the Pinterest-style waterfall layout, which has now become a standard for many search engines. Each image is shown in a thumbnail form and below it shows the number of likes and comments. Also when you click on a particular image, it expands in size and shows comments in a sidebar. You can share the photo directly from Bing and even add you own comment.

Through this new feature you can search for photos by keywords which will in turn match texts in photo captions or album titles.

Keep in mind that the Bing has the same privacy settings just like the Facebook, so those having permissions on Facebook will only be able to see photos on Bing.

Earlier this year, Bing included a Social Search sidebar, which allows you to tap into friends and experts for any search keyword.

According to Bing, this could prove to be a cool feature to connect with your friends and you may also prefer Bing’s way of displaying the photos to you.

HP Z1 All-in-One Workstation - WM429EA Review

HP Z1 All-in-One Workstation (WM429EA) has Intel Xeon E3-1280 (3.50 GHz, 8 MB cache, 4 cores), 8GB 1600 MHz DDR3 non-ECC Unbuffered RAM, 1TB 7200 rpm SATA NCQ, NVIDIA Quadro 1000M (2 GB), Slim slot-load SATA DVD+/-RW, Integrated Intel 802.11 a/g/n Wireless LAN & Bluetooth Combo Card, Integrated High Definition IDT 92HD91, Windows 7 Professional.

Specification

•     Processor:3.5 GHz Intel Xeon E3-1280
•     System Memory:8GB 1600 MHz DDR3 non-ECC Unbuffered RAM
•     Hard Drive:1TB 7200 rpm SATA NCQ
•     Optical Drive:Slim slot-load SATA DVD+/-RW
•     Operating System:Windows 7 Professional
•     Chipset:Intel C206
•     Graphics:NVIDIA Quadro 1000M (2 GB)
•     Integrated High Definition IDT 92HD91

HP Workstation Z400

HP Workstation Z420

HP Workstation Z600

HP Workstation Z620

www.systemactive.com HP Z1 All In One Workstation PC

Bastion is now available for the iPad

By: Aseem Gaurav on August 30, 2012


American video game developer Supergiant Games has officially released its hit action role-playing game ‘Bastion’ for the iPad. Bastion is an award-winning game re-imagined and re-created to take maximum advantage of the Retina display of the iPad.

Image courtesy: Supergiant Games

The iOS title features all the content from the original Xbox 360/PC release, but with some tweaks so as to work with touch controls of the new iPad. Bastion has won a lot of awards since its release, like ‘Best Downloadable’ title from the Game Developers Choice Awards, the Spike Video Game Awards, and the Academy of Interactive Arts and Sciences.

The game is set in a post-apocalyptic world, after a great “Calamity” wreaked havoc and destroyed most of the land. The game story revolves around a silent protagonist, referred to as the Kid. Sporting white hair, the Kid makes his way through fantasy-themed environments that form up below his feet as he progresses. During his journey, he faces a whole gamut of enemies – like Squirts and Gasfellas – that too in variety of sizes. In order to defeat them he’s provided with a huge arsenal of upgradeable weapons. Each weapon has its unique strength and must be used looking at the complexity of the battle. “If you're a fan of previous versions of the game, we hope you'll enjoy discovering some of the differences in feel in some of your favorite weapons," the company said in its blog post.

Image courtesy: Supergiant Games

While creating a safe haven for survivors of the Calamity, known as the Bastion, the Kid collects items and level up his attributes with experience points.

Image courtesy: Supergiant Games

The game controls are simple: use the virtual joystick to attack, shield, or toggle weapons by pressing the respective buttons. The default setting is meant for new players aiming to get the feel of the game, but you can switch the control settings at any time.

What makes this game really appealing is the kind of visual variety that it offers. Other gems include: the dynamic nature of game, soundtrack, and sound design, dialogs, and the personality of its characters. The kind of mystery and intrigue that each level offers is really amazing, that will prompt you to keep on playing different levels.

Image courtesy: Supergiant Games

The current of the game is called fragments, or pieces of the Old World, which the Kid will find along the way and after defeating the enemy. Between levels, the Kid visits the Bastion, to purchase weapon upgrades and spirits by spending the currency.

A solid gameplay, fluid and fast-paced combat, and a marvelous presentation make it a must-have game. According to the company, Bastion for iPad includes the ‘Stranger’s Dream’ sequence, which was not in the original releases of Bastion for Xbox 360 or PC but later released as a downloadable extra. In addition, it has also converted the “No-Sweat Mode” added to previous versions into an Infinite Lives toggle setting, to improve the fighting skills of the gamers. The game will cost you $4.99.

Read the company blog describing the launch here.

TiVo Stream sends TV to iPad and iPhone, costs $129

By: Aseem Gaurav on August 30, 2012


Earlier in May, TiVo unveiled the TiVo Stream, a streaming media device that sends TiVo content to three iOS devices: the iPad, iPhone and iPod touch. Now the company has announced that it will officially start shipping the TiVo Stream Box on September 5 and has started taking its pre-order for just $129. This was announced to winners of a Facebook sweepstake style campaign that was intended to promote TiVo Stream box.

Well, here’s how the gadget works. The TiVo Stream is a four-inch square external device that connects to your TiVo Premiere DVR (Premiere, Premiere 4, Premiere XL, or Premiere XL4/Elite ), and streams content to any iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch running iOS 5.1 or later, via the TiVo iOS app. The box has the ability to transfer content directly to iPad’s own storage.

Through the app, you can view the TiVo program guide, set or delete recordings, and use the iOS device as a TiVo remote. Users can download the shows in either standard or "best" quality. TiVo claims that a one-hour show takes 15 minutes to download under perfect network conditions.

The company in an advertisement says that the device allow streaming and recording to as many as three devices simultaneously without interrupting what's currently being viewed on the TV.

"Apart from an enjoyable TV experience, consumers now demand choice and the flexibility to watch content on multiple devices and screens within the home. TiVo has created a suite of affordable companion devices that deliver a cohesive experience regardless of the screen the customer wants to use," Tom Rogers, President and CEO of TiVo Inc. ha said earlier.

The mobile app is free to download so it is only $129 that you need to spend if you already own a TiVo Premiere-series DVR.

Currently it is limited to iOS family, but the company says Android access is coming soon.

Samsung launches Drive Link, a car-friendly app for Galaxy S III

By: Aseem Gaurav on August 29, 2012


South Korean technology giant Samsung has launched Drive Link, an in-car smartphone app that is designed for safe use while driving. Meant only for Galaxy S III users, the app offers an uncluttered user interface that has large buttons and clear menu – thus making it easy for the driver to access it while driving.

The app provides optimal use of smartphone for the driving purpose like: navigating to a destination, talking hands-free and listening to music. Since the app has been designed for quick and intuitive use – finding the information is quite easy. After you download the app, a welcome screen will appear showing time and weather information for the current location at the top edge of the screen. At the center, you’ll see the upcoming appointments saved in S Calendar along with a trio of links to set the event's address as a destination, to call a contact associated with the appointment, or to ignore the appointment.

Just below is the main menu, which has three large shortcut buttons for the Samsung music player app, the navigation app and destination search, and the hands-free calling system.

The app offers navigation facility using the smartphone’s GPS features, which allows users to select preset, recent or favorite destinations, or search for a specific address. To make thing more comfortable for a driver, Incoming text messages, emails, and social media updates are read aloud via a text-to-speech facility. Drive Link is compatible with MirrorLink, which basically connects your phone to car’s infotainment system so that you can read the incoming messages on the car’s own display.

According to Samsung, the app meets the safety regulations established by the Japanese Automotive Manufacturers Association. As of now the app is available in 21 countries across Europe, including France, Germany, Russia, and the UK. Drive Link is currently available on the Samsung Galaxy S III but in near future it will be made available on other smartphones running Google Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich).

Get more information here.

Drawbacks of Refurbished Laptops

Are you looking to buy a refurbished laptop? Well, it can be a good option as it has more cost effective value unlike brand new ones. Usually, refurbished laptops are sent back to the store within 90 days of purchase in case of any minor defects. After thorough inspection and fixing, these revamped laptops are sold at a lesser price. Even some additional features are included in the refurbished model. Purchasing a refurbished laptop can be a good cost effective solution including other advantages. But, have you thought about its downside? This article will help you know all possible drawbacks of a refurbished laptop.

The motherboard is the most vital part of a computer. If you get a refurbished laptop with an inefficient motherboard, then simply your money will be wasted. Instead of getting complete satisfaction, you will encounter a lot of system problems. Some revamped laptops are also identified with damaged or poor quality screen. So, it is wise to inspect the laptop screen before the purchase. Look for the right resolution and check how the laptop screen performs under sunlight.

The life expectancy of a refurbished laptop is much shorter than a brand new one. Even some of these laptops do not offer any warranty period. So, it’s better to seek a refurbished laptop from a renowned company which ensures warranty and customer support as well. Apple Inc., Dell, Toshiba, Sony, and Hewlett Packard sell refurbished laptops through their official websites including a reasonable warranty.

www.systemactive.com .

HP Refurbished Laptops

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Apple wins $1 billion in patent suit against Samsung

By: Aseem Gaurav on August 25, 2012

After a year of near-global mobile patent court battle between Apple and Samsung, a nine-member California jury has awarded Apple Inc more than $1.05 billion in damages.

The jury's verdict in the landmark case found that Samsung products had infringed on six of seven smartphone patents in question. At the same time the jury rejected patent claims by Samsung and its request for damages.

During arguments, Samsung's lawyers contended that the company was simple and legally offering consumers: smartphones with big screens. The company also denied Apple’s monopoly over rectangle phones with rounded corners that it claimed it created.

The two technology titans locked horns when Cupertino, California based Apple sued Samsung in April 2011, charging South Korean handset maker of copying its designs and features, which analysts view as an attack on Google and its Android software, which is driving Samsung’s sales.

The fierce rivalry between the two companies has been viewed by many as a battle to control the multi-billion dollar smartphone market. Jointly, Apple and Samsung, cell more than half of the world's smartphones and tablets.

Originally, Apple demanded $2.5 billion to $2.75 billion, because of the infringements, while Samsung sought $421.8 million in royalties for claims that Apple violated five patents.

The dispute began when Samsung released its Galaxy smartphones in 2010. And Steve Jobs, the co-founder of Apple who died last October, personally contacted Samsung to complain about potential intellectual property infringement.

Besides the United States, the two companies are also involved in a legal battle in countries like Britain, Australia and South Korea. The California case was the first to go to a US jury.

Legal experts view the current verdict as “huge and crushing win” for Apple which will also give the Cupertino-based company a leg up in a legal firestorm.

According to technology market researcher IDC, Samsung has a lead over Apple in smartphone sales with about 32 per cent of the market to Apple’s 17 per cent.

Angry Birds Space now on Mars with Red Planet update

By: Aseem Gaurav on August 24, 2012

US space agency, The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), has teamed up with Finnish game developer Rovio to send pigs and birds of Rovio Mobile’s billion dollar hit game to Mars as well.

A new update for Angry Birds Space features a total of 20 Mars-themed levels involving some great pig bursting action.

As per the new plot, some pigs have hijacked the $2.6-billion car-sized Curiosity rover -- but instead of searching for ice crystals, they're looking for eggs! Now players have to dodge explosive volcanoes, firing asteroids, and fight a new astronaut pig. Besides, you also need to find three rovers and landers to reveal bonus levels, and learn even more about Curiosity Mars Rover and NASA.

Earlier this year, NASA joined hands with Rovio on Angry Birds Space under a Space Act Agreement to share the excitement of space with the Angry Birds community and educate players about agency programs.

Download the $0.99 app for iPhone

Download the $2.99 app for iPhone

Logitech unveils K310: A keyboard that you can wash

By: Aseem Gaurav on August 24, 2012

A study had suggested that some computer keyboards harbour more harmful bacteria than a toilet seat. Should somebody have a cold in your office, would you like to pick his/her keyboard? Well, probably not! Okay, you’d love to work on a clean keyboard, but don’t want to get into the tedious task of sweeping off crumbs and dust. Then Logitech's latest K310 Keyboard, a washable keyboard that can be submerged in water to remove the dust from all angles is the right computer accessory for you.

This white-keyed washable keyboard can be rinsed in the kitchen sink, washed with soap and water, and soaked and splashed. The drainage holes on the bottom allow draining off water and then dry much more quickly. Do remember that while the keyboard is washable, the USB cable isn’t. Moreover, you also need not worry about keys fading after repeated cleanings since all keys are laser printed and UV coated.

The keyboard is dust resistant and comes with a brush attached, which makes it easier to sweep off dust and crumbs.

The Logitech Washable K310 is full-size keyboard, and comes with black and white color scheme. Suitable for heavy use, the company claims that each key of the keyboard can last up to five million keystrokes.

Besides cleaning and good looks, the keyboard is designed to deliver what it has been made to do: comfortable typing.

The Logitech Washable Keyboard K310 is available to pre-order now through Logitech.com and sells for $39.99.

Source: Logitech

Computer’s Performance: Make it Super-Fast, and Read Howtos!

It becomes an annoying situation, when your desktop PC or laptop runs very slowly while you’re doing an important task. Mostly due to improper maintenance, our Windows PC doesn’t run in the same speed that it used to run when it was first used. Many users experience some applications taking much time to run, creepy downloading speed, and their computer hangs for a couple of seconds. Spending few minutes regularly for PC care, can result in a seamless performance. Check in some key points from this article that will help you boost your computer’s performance.

 

1.    Clean Up Unnecessary Files

Regularly scan for unnecessary and temporary files that affect your computer’s speed. Use Windows’ built-in disk clean up tool to remove old and temporary files. The task scheduler in Windows helps to run disk clean up tool on a scheduled time. Disk clean up tool basically removes temporary internet files, Windows temporary files such as error reports, empty recycle bin, clean up unused restore points.

 2.    Disk Defragmentation

A computer’s hard drive holds large varieties of data files in different positions. Disk defragmentation arranges all these fragmented files in proper place and provides free space. It helps your computer run quickly and efficiently. The applications load much faster as files are physically arranged in the drives. 

 3.    Remove Viruses & Malwares

Whenever you surf the internet without tight security, your computer is threatened by many viruses and malwares. Malicious and junk files get downloaded to your system and takes unnecessary space. They can kill your system’s performance by corrupting other files and folders. So, it is always recommended to use a good anti-virus that can strongly protect your PC from all type of badwares and ensure good system performance.

 4.    Repair Disk Errors

Run error checking utility for checking the integrity of files stored on your hard disk. There are possible chances that your computer will be affected by bad sectors. These sectors can affect your hard disk performance and make data writing difficult. The Error Checking utility scans the system for bad sectors and file system errors. It fixes all the errors and ensures smooth 

performance.

 5.    Uninstall Unused Programs

There are many users who install several programs on their computer, but they do not use all of them. This takes unnecessary space affecting the computer’s speed. Check all installed programs and find the programs that you don’t use or rarely use. Simply uninstall them and make your system free from space taking programs.

www.systemactive.com .

Mark Zuckerberg praises grilling app iGrill, his interest causes startup website to crash

By: Aseem Gaurav on August 22, 2012

If Mark Zuckerberg, one of the world's youngest billionaires and Facebook founder and CEO, endorses your app on his Facebook page, what do you expect in return? Nearly 1,000 people per minute to a website that used to get just 70,000 visitors per month.

This happened to the website of cooking thermometer and iOS app iGrill, which reportedly crashed for a certain period of time because of excessive traffic.

Zuckerberg posted a picture of a steak with this message: "I updated my grilling app, iGrill, today and it now has Facebook integration that lets you see what other people are grilling right now around the world. Awesome. I'm making a Fred's steak."

The post has since then garnered over 47,000 likes and 100 comments.

In case you are unaware about iGrill, it is a wireless thermometer and app combination, which you can use to ensure that the meat is cooking at a perfect temperature. The device costs $80 and connects to Apple iPod Touch, iPhone or iPad via Bluetooth and allow you to monitor your food from up to 200 feet away. There is also a facility which lets users set up additional probes for simultaneous monitoring of two different pieces of meat. Finally, when your food is ready, you Apple device will alert you!

The iOS app comes integrated with Facebook which can be used to to inform friends and family what you are cooking. iGrill is run by a small Connecticut-based company called iDevices.

Earlier this year, Zuckerberg expressed his liking for the music game app SongPop which resulted in massive popularity of the app among the users.

To gain more information, you can visit the company website here or you can also download the app here.

Benefits of Refurbished laptops

Refurbished laptops are the laptops which were sent back to their manufacturer for inspection, undergone a quality recheck process, repackaged and finally set for sale. These laptops have a great value as they are tested twice, once at the time of manufacturing process and during refurbished process. These days, having refurbished laptops is an emerging trend over the new ones. The main advantage of buying a refurbished laptop is that it will cost you a lot less money than a brand new laptop. Check out this page to know more benefits of having a refurbished laptop. 

You don’t have to spend lots of money for buying a new laptop. Refurbished laptops can be a best alternative for people with low budgets including younger children, college students, and small business employees. Many renowned manufacturers like HP, Toshiba, Compaq, and others sell reconditioned computers including desktop and laptops. They have special pages on their official websites offering these deals. There you can find specifications, components, what was fixed, and more.

The process of refurbishment has some simple reasons including the fact that the customer changed his/her mind about the item. If the laptop screen is found scratched, minor dent, etc, then it is sent back to the manufacturer for recheck. Though, the item has been used for a short period of time, stores cannot sell them as a new one. Hence, they are refurbished and put on sale with a reduced price tag. Refurbished computers maintain a good quality level when compared to brand new ones. So it can be an excellent option for people with tight budget. Usually, refurbished laptops offer 1 year of warranty period, but it can be extended up to 3 years. You can grab the trendiest laptop and avail more features at a lesser cost.

www.systemactive.com