Cisco's consumer electronics dream
Linksys WRT610N Wireless Router CNET reviewWhat is it? The Linksys WRT610N is Cisco's flagship Wi-Fi router. It offers both 2.4GHz and 5GHz transmission at the same time, which means it can support multiple wireless devices with up to 600Mbps of available bandwidth. The 5GHz radio band frequency is wider and less crowded than the 2.4GHz radio frequency, which is used by most wireless devices, including cordless phones, baby monitors, and Bluetooth. Cisco offers a wide range of wireless routers, including two new wireless routers that are coming out soon. What makes it cool? The WRT610N is a compact device with an internal antenna that supports both 2.4Ghz and 5Ghz 802.11n simultaneously for more capacity and potentially fewer interference issues. It can also act as a network-attached storage device when coupled with an external hard drive, which allows users to easily share files and move them between the storage device and other network connected devices.What makes it not so cool? Cisco offers a short one-year warranty for the device. And the CNET editor who reviewed it said the product's performance when using the 2.4GHz band could be better. And at $150 to $200, it's expensive.Linksys Media Hub Home Entertainment Storage NMH305 (NAS server) - $300Linksys Media Hub Home Entertainment Storage NMH305CNETLinksys Media Hub without LCD NMH305 CNET previewWhat is it? The Linksys Media Hub is a storage hub that allows people to access and stream media. Cisco offers the device in two main configurations.What makes it cool? Users can enjoy multiple streams of media from the hub at any time. This means that you can watch a movie while your kids listen to music and your spouse browses photos. The system also has "intelligent aggregation," which automatically finds, copies, and organizes media from all the UPnP devices on your network--even collecting songs from the same CD stored in different places into one virtual album. Photos can also be imported directly from compact Flash devices, SD cards, and memory sticks with a built-in Media Reader. The NMH305 is the budget version of the device and offers 500 gigabytes of storage.What makes it not so cool? The cheapest version of the product still requires a computer to manage the device.Linksys Media Hub Home Entertainment Storage with LCD NMH410 (NAS server) - $430Linksys Media Hub Home Entertainment Storage with LCD NMH410CNETLinksys Media Hub with LCD NMH410 CNET preview What is it? The NMH400 is a Media Hub storage device that offers all the functionality found in the low-end product. The NMH410 product comes with 1 terabyte of storage.What makes it cool? It offers a lot of storage. And it also has an LCD screen that lets users view a variety of information and perform certain tasks without a PC, such as updating firmware or making instant backups. What makes it not so cool? It's expensive at over $400.Wireless Home Audio - Premier kit $1,000, Trio $850, Executive $550Wireless Home Audio productsCisco SystemsWireless Home Audio CNET preview What is it? The Wireless Home Audio offering is a suite of six products that allows users to share music in multiple rooms throughout their homes. The products are available separately or in three preconfigured bundles. What makes it cool? It's completely wireless and works with standard Wi-Fi 802.11n gear. It also has touch-sensitive controls. And it offers an iPod dock that allows access to the iPod (and its DRM-protected iTunes library) from any of the base stations on the network.What makes it not so cool? It's expensive. The bundled packages range in price from $550 to $1,000. The music system is also limited in its streaming music options compared to other music systems. For example, the Linksys system will initially offer streaming music from some free online radio stations and the Rhapsody subscription service. Its competitor, the Sonos Multi-Room Music System, lets users access the free Pandora and Last.fm music services, as well as Sirius and Napster subscription services; that's in addition to the Rhapsody and free Internet radio stations also found on the Linksys. But Cisco representatives hinted that more audio services will be coming to its system as soon as they can ink the necessary deals. Another potential hurdle is that consumers may be overwhelmed by the number of pieces in the solution. Here's a rundown of the six elements available in the product line:The Conductor (DMC350 Wireless-N Digital Music Center): The flagship component is a self-contained module with a built-in touch-screen control, stereo speakers, and even an integrated CD player. It also includes a small IR remote. The Director (DMC250 Wireless-N Music Player with Integrated Amplifier): With its built-in 50-watt-per-channel amplifier, the Director can drive speakers attached directly to it (or you can opt to connect it to an external component via its line-out). This component also includes a screen and small remote. The Player (DMP100 Wireless-N Music Extender): Attach this entry-level module to any stereo, boom box, or audiovisual receiver to access the system's digital audio stream. Stereo Speaker Kit (DSPK50): This speaker package matches the look and feel of the Director. Controller (DMWR1000 Wireless-N Touchscreen Remote): The touch-screen remote is the heart of the Linksys system, able to control any and all of the base stations wirelessly. Docking Station for iPod (MCCI40): Attach the MCCI40 to one of the base stations (Conductor, Director, or Player) to enable access to your entire iPod's audio collection throughout the Linksys Wireless Home Audio System. These products will initially be available in three preconfigured bundles: the Premier Kit for two rooms (Director, Player, Controller, and two IR remotes); the Trio Kit for two rooms (two Players, one Controller, two IR remotes); and the Executive Kit for single rooms (Director, DSPK50 Speaker Kit, IR remote). Users can mix and match individual components and bundles according to their needs. Linksys Media Center Extender DMA2200 (DVD player/digital multimedia receiver) - $150 to $350Linksys Media Center Extender DMA2200CNETLinksys Media Center Extender DMA2200 with DVD player What is it?Media Extenders are devices that connect computers running a Microsoft Windows Media Center PC to a TV via an IP network. This allows consumers to access their Media Center files, such as photos, videos, and music on their TVs. They can also use the DVR function and watch recorded TV from their Media Center PC on their TVs. The advantage of using these devices is that the computer, which hosts the Media Center software, can physically be in another room instead of connected directly to the TV. What makes it cool? The Linksys Media Center extender has a built-in DVD player. It also offers wireless connectivity via 802.11n Wi-Fi for streaming HD videos. And it's a bargain compared to rival Windows Media Center Extenders.What makes it not so cool? CNET reviewers said, on the whole, the Linkys Media Extender offered inconsistent performance. Specifically, it offered an unreliable streaming bit rate, a laggy interface, frustrating remote control, and had incompatibility issues with various movie file formats. And it only streams from Windows Media Center-compatible PCs. Linksys WVC54GCA Wireless-G Internet Home Monitoring Camera - $120Linksys WVC54GCA Wireless-G Internet Home Monitoring CameraCNET AustraliaLinksys WVC54GCA Wireless-G Internet Home Monitoring Camera CNET Australia review What is it? A Wi-Fi enabled camera for monitoring your home via the Internet while you're away.What makes it cool? For a wireless camera for home security, the price is right at only about $120. The camera has a Wi-Fi radio and works wirelessly. CNET Australia reviewers also said the product detects motion quite well.What makes it not so cool? The automatic device setup was not so automatic, according to the CNET Australia reviewer. The device is not cross-browser compatible, which was a problem.The image quality is only so-so. Reviewers also noted that the blue light that's used when the camera is on may alert burglars that they are being filmed. And savvy thieves may actually unplug the device and steal it along with everything else in the home.Newly acquired Flip Video camcorders from Pure Digital TechnologiesFlip Video MinoHD (black) - $209 to $220Flip Video MinoHDCNETFlip Video MinoHD CNET review What is it? The Flip Video MinoHD is a mini-handheld digital video recorder that records up to 1 hour of video in high definition. What makes it cool? It offers true 720p or high-definition video. The device itself is ultraslim. It's easy to use with software that is compatible with both Windows and Mac computers. It offers one-touch video uploading to YouTube, AOL, and MySpace. It comes with an integrated lithium ion rechargeable battery.What makes it not so cool? The device is somewhat pricey at more than $200. The rechargeable battery isn't removable or replaceable and it only allows for about 2 hours of video time. There are no expansion slots for additional memory. The picture doesn't scale well when viewed on a regular TV, so to keep the image sharp, the reviewers suggest keeping the viewing box small.Flip Video Mino (black) - $160 to $180Flip Video MinoCNETFlip Video Mino CNET review What is it? The Flip Video Mino is a mini-handheld digital video recorder that records up to 1 hour of video in standard definition. And it offers straight the Web video sharing.What makes it cool? CNET reviewers call this device the best mini camcorder for straight-to-Web video currently available. The Flip Video Mino is an ultraslim design that is also very functional and easy to use. It also offers relatively high-quality sound and video for its class of product and offers one-touch video uploading to YouTube and AOL. What makes it not so cool? At between $160 and $180, it's a bit pricey for a product in this category. And reviewers point out that it can't match the features of a video-savvy point-and-shoot camera. It also doesn't offer a memory expansion slot. And the rechargeable battery isn't removable or replaceable.Flip Video Ultra (60 minutes, black) - $120 to $150Flip Video UltraCNETFlip Video UltraWhat is it? The Flip Video Ultra is a mini-handheld digital video recorder that records up to an hour of standard-definition video. What makes it cool? The Flip Ultra series offers an upgraded design, video quality, viewing LCD, and software to its lightweight video camera for sharing easy-to-capture, low-resolution video via e-mail and the Web. The new version of software allows for one-touch video uploading to YouTube and AOL Video. The Ultra is also compatible with Macs.What makes it not so cool? The mini camcorder doesn't offer a memory expansion slot. The video quality is not the same as what you'd get with a MiniDV camcorder. Also the software only allows editing on PCs, not Macs.
Report- Beatles coming to iTunes
Report: Beatles coming to iTunes
Apple will offer The Beatles music at iTunes, according to a report in The Wall Street Journal. The paper said Apple is planning to make the announcement but cautioned that the company "could change plans" at the last minute. Apple posted a note to the company's Web site today and promised to make an "unforgettable" announcement tomorrow. Blogs and social networks were crammed with speculation about what Apple might be rolling out next. Apple was thwarted from acquiring rights to The Beatles' catalog by several factors, including a feud with the band over the Apple trademark. In the late 1960s, The Beatles named their holding and record company Apple Records. Acquiring exclusive digital rights to the songs was also an issue. Had The Beatles cut such a deal years ago, it risked alienating Wal-Mart, Amazon, and other music retailers online and off, according to sources with knowledge of the negotiations. There is nothing in the Journal story to indicate whether the agreement with Apple, EMI, and The Beatles is exclusive.If Apple does unveil tomorrow some of the world's most recognizable songs, such as "Yesterday," "Help," and "Across the Universe" then it would end one of the longest-running Apple rumors. Every other year it seemed, someone would spark a media frenzy by floating a rumor that Apple was getting The Beatles. Spokesmen for EMI, The Beatles record label, and Apple declined to comment. If you're one of those people who ripped your Beatles' CDs long ago or downloaded them off a file-sharing site, then a Beatles-iTunes arrangement might be anti-climatic. But this might be the highlight of Apple's announcement. Apple has not obtained the licenses needed to offer a streaming or digital locker for either music or video, according to numerous sources in the the music and film sectors. Apple this year has labored on enabling iTunes users to upload their music and video libraries to the company's servers where they could be stored and then access from Web enabled devices. As for the probability that Apple will debut The Beatles at iTunes, some fans of the band at CNET as well as music industry execs said they spotted traces of The Beatles in Apple's post. A graphic in the notice showed four separate clocks pointing to different times. This was reminiscent of the album cover from The Beatles legendary album "Help."In the spirit of the "Paul is Dead" conspiracy theories of the 1960s, in which Beatles fans parsed the lyrics and album artwork for clues that Paul McCartney had actually died in a car crash and was secretly replaced in the band, we found that each of the words in Apple's notice can be found in a song written or performed by The Beatles. A stretch maybe, but this is Apple, right?
Apple will offer The Beatles music at iTunes, according to a report in The Wall Street Journal. The paper said Apple is planning to make the announcement but cautioned that the company "could change plans" at the last minute. Apple posted a note to the company's Web site today and promised to make an "unforgettable" announcement tomorrow. Blogs and social networks were crammed with speculation about what Apple might be rolling out next. Apple was thwarted from acquiring rights to The Beatles' catalog by several factors, including a feud with the band over the Apple trademark. In the late 1960s, The Beatles named their holding and record company Apple Records. Acquiring exclusive digital rights to the songs was also an issue. Had The Beatles cut such a deal years ago, it risked alienating Wal-Mart, Amazon, and other music retailers online and off, according to sources with knowledge of the negotiations. There is nothing in the Journal story to indicate whether the agreement with Apple, EMI, and The Beatles is exclusive.If Apple does unveil tomorrow some of the world's most recognizable songs, such as "Yesterday," "Help," and "Across the Universe" then it would end one of the longest-running Apple rumors. Every other year it seemed, someone would spark a media frenzy by floating a rumor that Apple was getting The Beatles. Spokesmen for EMI, The Beatles record label, and Apple declined to comment. If you're one of those people who ripped your Beatles' CDs long ago or downloaded them off a file-sharing site, then a Beatles-iTunes arrangement might be anti-climatic. But this might be the highlight of Apple's announcement. Apple has not obtained the licenses needed to offer a streaming or digital locker for either music or video, according to numerous sources in the the music and film sectors. Apple this year has labored on enabling iTunes users to upload their music and video libraries to the company's servers where they could be stored and then access from Web enabled devices. As for the probability that Apple will debut The Beatles at iTunes, some fans of the band at CNET as well as music industry execs said they spotted traces of The Beatles in Apple's post. A graphic in the notice showed four separate clocks pointing to different times. This was reminiscent of the album cover from The Beatles legendary album "Help."In the spirit of the "Paul is Dead" conspiracy theories of the 1960s, in which Beatles fans parsed the lyrics and album artwork for clues that Paul McCartney had actually died in a car crash and was secretly replaced in the band, we found that each of the words in Apple's notice can be found in a song written or performed by The Beatles. A stretch maybe, but this is Apple, right?
Fanhattan review- One app to rule your iPad video
Fanhattan review: One app to rule your iPad video
Devices like Apple's iPad are revolutionary for their myriad ways of accessing TV and movies, but discoverability across services is a huge pain. Example: knowing whether any Steven Spielberg movies are on Netflix streaming. Or, is your favorite TV show on Hulu, Netflix, or neither? Is it on iTunes, or maybe even Vudu? Fanhattan is an app that intends to help users tackle this problem by tying together a media-browsing interface and search that doubles as a launcher for those TV shows and movies. The app launched earlier this year, but a recent app update has added more features, including a Facebook connection. Is it the ultimate way to figure out what video to watch on your iPad? Well, it's close.Related stories• Vuze unveils Fanhattan• Fanhattan iPad app launches• Five things Netflix needs to fixThe idea's not unlike Clicker, a Web site turned iPhone app that aims to browse and launch video content across platforms (disclosure: Clicker is a CBS company). Clicker doesn't have an iPad app, however, while Fanhattan makes the iPad its primary platform. Clicker also browses Web videos from sources such as The Onion.com as well as movies/music/TV, while Fanhattan only browses TV and feature movies.Fanhattan ties together the searchable content libraries of the ABC iPad app, Hulu Plus, Netflix, Crackle, iTunes, and Vudu, and searches all of them via its relatively clean interface. At first, you're asked to pick between TV or Movies to browse, which opens up a series of swipable-pane search options, offering either search filtering or browsing of lists including top-rated/award-winning movies, Facebook recommendations, or browsing by Network, Schedule, or Genre. Netflix-like thumbnails of shows and movies line the bottom of the screen accordingly. Tapping on a show opens up more panes full of information: show availability (tapping on Netflix, for instance, launches the episode right from the Netflix app), as well as IMDB-like cast/crew lists, episode synopses, and Metacritic reviews.Browsing by actor/director can be confusing, but it's possible.Screenshot by Scott Stein/CNETEven better, clicking on actors/directors will bring up their film/TV history, all of which can be browsed for availability in the same way. It's odd that Fanhattan doesn't offer direct search by actor/director/writer--they leave it to you, the user, to browse the app and "discover" discoverability--but it's a useful tool that's still missing from Netflix and Hulu Plus' iPad apps.New to the latest Fanhattan app update is support for Vudu's browser-based streaming library, and Facebook Connect, which syncs lists of recommended movies and TV shows from Facebook friends. This info started syncing to Fanhattan immediately, pulled from liked movies/shows on their Facebook profiles, and it's worth browsing for some social fun.Browsing by TV episode.Screenshot by Scott Stein/CNETAll of Fanhattan aims at adding additional ways to discover and recommend movies and TV shows. Right now, it's still a messy experience: separate panes and multiple swipes split up the experience into oddly discrete squares and lists, instead of offering a more integrated interface. Still, the fact that it's free and offers better integrated search than what's otherwise available makes Fanhattan a must-download, or at least a must-try. Like Flipboard, Fanhattan's most valuable service might be as a visual demonstration of how Hulu Plus and Netflix could improve their own apps. It's not perfect, but for now we're glad Fanhattan even exists.
Devices like Apple's iPad are revolutionary for their myriad ways of accessing TV and movies, but discoverability across services is a huge pain. Example: knowing whether any Steven Spielberg movies are on Netflix streaming. Or, is your favorite TV show on Hulu, Netflix, or neither? Is it on iTunes, or maybe even Vudu? Fanhattan is an app that intends to help users tackle this problem by tying together a media-browsing interface and search that doubles as a launcher for those TV shows and movies. The app launched earlier this year, but a recent app update has added more features, including a Facebook connection. Is it the ultimate way to figure out what video to watch on your iPad? Well, it's close.Related stories• Vuze unveils Fanhattan• Fanhattan iPad app launches• Five things Netflix needs to fixThe idea's not unlike Clicker, a Web site turned iPhone app that aims to browse and launch video content across platforms (disclosure: Clicker is a CBS company). Clicker doesn't have an iPad app, however, while Fanhattan makes the iPad its primary platform. Clicker also browses Web videos from sources such as The Onion.com as well as movies/music/TV, while Fanhattan only browses TV and feature movies.Fanhattan ties together the searchable content libraries of the ABC iPad app, Hulu Plus, Netflix, Crackle, iTunes, and Vudu, and searches all of them via its relatively clean interface. At first, you're asked to pick between TV or Movies to browse, which opens up a series of swipable-pane search options, offering either search filtering or browsing of lists including top-rated/award-winning movies, Facebook recommendations, or browsing by Network, Schedule, or Genre. Netflix-like thumbnails of shows and movies line the bottom of the screen accordingly. Tapping on a show opens up more panes full of information: show availability (tapping on Netflix, for instance, launches the episode right from the Netflix app), as well as IMDB-like cast/crew lists, episode synopses, and Metacritic reviews.Browsing by actor/director can be confusing, but it's possible.Screenshot by Scott Stein/CNETEven better, clicking on actors/directors will bring up their film/TV history, all of which can be browsed for availability in the same way. It's odd that Fanhattan doesn't offer direct search by actor/director/writer--they leave it to you, the user, to browse the app and "discover" discoverability--but it's a useful tool that's still missing from Netflix and Hulu Plus' iPad apps.New to the latest Fanhattan app update is support for Vudu's browser-based streaming library, and Facebook Connect, which syncs lists of recommended movies and TV shows from Facebook friends. This info started syncing to Fanhattan immediately, pulled from liked movies/shows on their Facebook profiles, and it's worth browsing for some social fun.Browsing by TV episode.Screenshot by Scott Stein/CNETAll of Fanhattan aims at adding additional ways to discover and recommend movies and TV shows. Right now, it's still a messy experience: separate panes and multiple swipes split up the experience into oddly discrete squares and lists, instead of offering a more integrated interface. Still, the fact that it's free and offers better integrated search than what's otherwise available makes Fanhattan a must-download, or at least a must-try. Like Flipboard, Fanhattan's most valuable service might be as a visual demonstration of how Hulu Plus and Netflix could improve their own apps. It's not perfect, but for now we're glad Fanhattan even exists.
The 404 699- Where it's one down, two to go (podcast)
The 404 699: Where it's one down, two to go (podcast)
We don't normally dedicate entire episodes of The 404 Podcast to a single topic, but since Jeff's wedding only happens once in a lifetime (and because we've been talking about it for a year), today's show is all about Jeff and Stacie Bakalar's beautiful wedding this weekend!DragCloseThis content is rated TV-MA, and is for viewers 18 years or older. Are you of age?YesNoSorry, you are not old enough to view this content.Mark Licea, aka MTI, also joins us on today's episode to help us recount Saturday's event, and we can't gush enough about the perfection of the night: from the tear-jerking wedding ceremony under the chuppah to the handmade yarmulkes, the huge spread of Halloween candy, the '80s/'90s cover band Renegade, and the loving Bakalar/Davis extended family and friends, suffice it to say the night was an undisputed success.As expected, we did shed a few tears during the wedding, so be sure to tune in to hear stories about that, in addition to more about the dances, the speeches, the food, and even a surprise call from Jeff's Dad, Sweet Lou Bakalar himself!We show pictures of the night throughout today's video, but click through the slideshow below if you're a 404 audio listener, and don't forget to send in your video voicemails to the404(at)cnet(dot)com congratulating the new couple! Hopefully Jeff won't be too sunburned to watch them from his isolation chamber in Hawaii. Photos from Stacie and Jeff Bakalar's we...See full gallery1 - 4 / 16NextPrevEpisode 699PodcastYour browser does not support the audio element. Subscribe in iTunes audio | Suscribe to iTunes (video) |Subscribe in RSS Audio | Subscribe in RSS Video  Follow us on Twitter!The 404Jeff BakalarJustin YuWilson TangAdd us on Facebook!The 404 Fan PageThe 404 GroupJustin YuJeff BakalarWilson Tang
We don't normally dedicate entire episodes of The 404 Podcast to a single topic, but since Jeff's wedding only happens once in a lifetime (and because we've been talking about it for a year), today's show is all about Jeff and Stacie Bakalar's beautiful wedding this weekend!DragCloseThis content is rated TV-MA, and is for viewers 18 years or older. Are you of age?YesNoSorry, you are not old enough to view this content.Mark Licea, aka MTI, also joins us on today's episode to help us recount Saturday's event, and we can't gush enough about the perfection of the night: from the tear-jerking wedding ceremony under the chuppah to the handmade yarmulkes, the huge spread of Halloween candy, the '80s/'90s cover band Renegade, and the loving Bakalar/Davis extended family and friends, suffice it to say the night was an undisputed success.As expected, we did shed a few tears during the wedding, so be sure to tune in to hear stories about that, in addition to more about the dances, the speeches, the food, and even a surprise call from Jeff's Dad, Sweet Lou Bakalar himself!We show pictures of the night throughout today's video, but click through the slideshow below if you're a 404 audio listener, and don't forget to send in your video voicemails to the404(at)cnet(dot)com congratulating the new couple! Hopefully Jeff won't be too sunburned to watch them from his isolation chamber in Hawaii. Photos from Stacie and Jeff Bakalar's we...See full gallery1 - 4 / 16NextPrevEpisode 699PodcastYour browser does not support the audio element. Subscribe in iTunes audio | Suscribe to iTunes (video) |Subscribe in RSS Audio | Subscribe in RSS Video  Follow us on Twitter!The 404Jeff BakalarJustin YuWilson TangAdd us on Facebook!The 404 Fan PageThe 404 GroupJustin YuJeff BakalarWilson Tang
Office 2.0 Launchpad rundown
Office 2.0 Launchpad rundown
EditGrid talked about the freshly launched iPhone and iPod touch optimized version of the online spreadsheets service. The new tweaks make the site finger friendly and take advantage of the built-in keyboard on both devices for text and data entry. You can also work on the same spreadsheet as someone using the desktop version, and both of you will see the edits happening in real time.Docgle, a document management service, didn't show anything off, but announced they'd be opening up the beta in a few weeks. The site is now accepting invite requests on the landing page.Diigo showed off the new WebSlides service, which turns your bookmarks into an annotated slideshow. We've got a hands-on with it here. In the meantime, you can give it a spin at slides.diigo.com.Caspio gave a brief overview of ExpressDB, the new service, which lets you database-enable forms without having to know anything about coding.ThinkFree talked about the public beta of the Premium Edition of Thinkfree Office, and the Thinkfree userbase, who have shared over a million documents on the service as of last month. No pitch, but new companies and services:Coghead, launched a new Business Essentials service this morning, which has a small collection of pre-built apps for small business collaboration.Huddle, the U.K. based team collaboration app is launching a U.S. version this morning. Move & Play is a new company for sending data back and forth from your iPhone. Working services and apps include Facebook, Apple's iTunes and iPhoto among others. More on this one soon. Persony launched the second version of its audio and video conferencing service yesterday. This is the same technology you find in WebEx and Microsoft Live Meeting. Persony also offers white label versions for businesses to brand their conferences.
EditGrid talked about the freshly launched iPhone and iPod touch optimized version of the online spreadsheets service. The new tweaks make the site finger friendly and take advantage of the built-in keyboard on both devices for text and data entry. You can also work on the same spreadsheet as someone using the desktop version, and both of you will see the edits happening in real time.Docgle, a document management service, didn't show anything off, but announced they'd be opening up the beta in a few weeks. The site is now accepting invite requests on the landing page.Diigo showed off the new WebSlides service, which turns your bookmarks into an annotated slideshow. We've got a hands-on with it here. In the meantime, you can give it a spin at slides.diigo.com.Caspio gave a brief overview of ExpressDB, the new service, which lets you database-enable forms without having to know anything about coding.ThinkFree talked about the public beta of the Premium Edition of Thinkfree Office, and the Thinkfree userbase, who have shared over a million documents on the service as of last month. No pitch, but new companies and services:Coghead, launched a new Business Essentials service this morning, which has a small collection of pre-built apps for small business collaboration.Huddle, the U.K. based team collaboration app is launching a U.S. version this morning. Move & Play is a new company for sending data back and forth from your iPhone. Working services and apps include Facebook, Apple's iTunes and iPhoto among others. More on this one soon. Persony launched the second version of its audio and video conferencing service yesterday. This is the same technology you find in WebEx and Microsoft Live Meeting. Persony also offers white label versions for businesses to brand their conferences.
Feel the Force with 'Star Wars Journeys' app from Disney
Feel the Force with 'Star Wars Journeys' app from Disney
The new Star Wars Journeys app lets you relive events in a galaxy far, far away by using innovative tools as part of the storytelling. Readers can fully engage in the Star Wars Journeys app series -- from Disney Publishing Worldwide and Lucasfilm -- thanks to interactive features such as infinite zoom scene transitions; new art; collectible character profiles; unlockable, hidden content; and 180-degree parallax viewing. Related storiesDisney Interactive announces Star Wars: Tiny Death StarWhere's the female side of the Force in 'Star Wars VII'?No love for Expanded Universe in new 'Star Wars' films The debut app in the series -- Star Wars Journeys: The Phantom Menace -- requires players to hone their Jedi skills in the ultimate podrace against the fastest racers in four galaxies. Podracers can be customized to improve racing results. Readers can also participate in tournaments, time trials, and daily racing events to win rewards."'Star Wars' is a such genre-spanning franchise that it was perfect to push our team's creative boundaries," Disney Publishing Worldwide lead producer Mike Zagari told Crave. "We set out to do what we're best known for -- children's apps -- then -- 'leveraging the power of the Force' -- expanded our expertise to release next-generation storytelling tools that will delight new fans and those already familiar with the franchise." Players can give a podracer a spin around the track complete with a 180-degree parallax viewing.Disney Star Wars Journeys: The Phantom Menace app is available now for iPhone and iPad at $6.99 (£4.99 in the UK iTunes store). Additional apps in the series for "Attack of the Clones," "Revenge of the Sith," "A New Hope," "The Empire Strikes Back," and "Return of the Jedi" will be released in sequential order leading up to the release of "Star Wars Episode VII."
The new Star Wars Journeys app lets you relive events in a galaxy far, far away by using innovative tools as part of the storytelling. Readers can fully engage in the Star Wars Journeys app series -- from Disney Publishing Worldwide and Lucasfilm -- thanks to interactive features such as infinite zoom scene transitions; new art; collectible character profiles; unlockable, hidden content; and 180-degree parallax viewing. Related storiesDisney Interactive announces Star Wars: Tiny Death StarWhere's the female side of the Force in 'Star Wars VII'?No love for Expanded Universe in new 'Star Wars' films The debut app in the series -- Star Wars Journeys: The Phantom Menace -- requires players to hone their Jedi skills in the ultimate podrace against the fastest racers in four galaxies. Podracers can be customized to improve racing results. Readers can also participate in tournaments, time trials, and daily racing events to win rewards."'Star Wars' is a such genre-spanning franchise that it was perfect to push our team's creative boundaries," Disney Publishing Worldwide lead producer Mike Zagari told Crave. "We set out to do what we're best known for -- children's apps -- then -- 'leveraging the power of the Force' -- expanded our expertise to release next-generation storytelling tools that will delight new fans and those already familiar with the franchise." Players can give a podracer a spin around the track complete with a 180-degree parallax viewing.Disney Star Wars Journeys: The Phantom Menace app is available now for iPhone and iPad at $6.99 (£4.99 in the UK iTunes store). Additional apps in the series for "Attack of the Clones," "Revenge of the Sith," "A New Hope," "The Empire Strikes Back," and "Return of the Jedi" will be released in sequential order leading up to the release of "Star Wars Episode VII."
FDA to start reining in the Wild West of medical apps
FDA to start reining in the Wild West of medical apps
The Wild West of mobile medical apps is getting a little more tame two years after the US Food and Drug Administration first proposed regulating any mobile app deemed a medical device.The administration announced Monday that it is issuing final rules governing the development and oversight of health-related apps, with a particular (and obvious) focus on those that could be harmful if defective or misused.To be clear, the FDA says it is only regulating products that turn smartphones into devices it already oversees (think electrocardiograms or ECGs) or serve as an accessory to a device that is already regulated.It will not, however, regulate the sale or general use of smartphones, tablets, or mobile app distributors (think iTunes or Google Play stores), or the personal use of basic wellness apps like medical dictionaries and tutorials, heart rate monitors, or pedometers."It's not about the platform," Dr. Jeffrey Shuren, who directs the FDA's medical device division, told reporters on a conference call. "It's about the functionality. An ECG is an ECG."Related storiesM7 chip adds health-tracking capabilities to iPhone 5SPhilips iPad 2 app takes your vitalsAwareness app: Upgrade your mental softwareThe FDA said it has already cleared roughly 100 mobile medical apps in the past 10 years, with 40 of them being cleared in the past two years. Shuren said it takes an average of just over two months (67 days) to review a medical app.One report published by research2guidance in March found that there are already 97,000 mobile health apps in the major app stores, and that the market for these apps should hit $26 billion by 2017. The FDA did not outline how many of those will come under the new review system, and did not say whether the administration would retroactively review and regulate any of the existing apps.Check out the FDA's full guidance report here.
The Wild West of mobile medical apps is getting a little more tame two years after the US Food and Drug Administration first proposed regulating any mobile app deemed a medical device.The administration announced Monday that it is issuing final rules governing the development and oversight of health-related apps, with a particular (and obvious) focus on those that could be harmful if defective or misused.To be clear, the FDA says it is only regulating products that turn smartphones into devices it already oversees (think electrocardiograms or ECGs) or serve as an accessory to a device that is already regulated.It will not, however, regulate the sale or general use of smartphones, tablets, or mobile app distributors (think iTunes or Google Play stores), or the personal use of basic wellness apps like medical dictionaries and tutorials, heart rate monitors, or pedometers."It's not about the platform," Dr. Jeffrey Shuren, who directs the FDA's medical device division, told reporters on a conference call. "It's about the functionality. An ECG is an ECG."Related storiesM7 chip adds health-tracking capabilities to iPhone 5SPhilips iPad 2 app takes your vitalsAwareness app: Upgrade your mental softwareThe FDA said it has already cleared roughly 100 mobile medical apps in the past 10 years, with 40 of them being cleared in the past two years. Shuren said it takes an average of just over two months (67 days) to review a medical app.One report published by research2guidance in March found that there are already 97,000 mobile health apps in the major app stores, and that the market for these apps should hit $26 billion by 2017. The FDA did not outline how many of those will come under the new review system, and did not say whether the administration would retroactively review and regulate any of the existing apps.Check out the FDA's full guidance report here.
Samsung will pay you up to $300 for your phone
Samsung will pay you up to $300 for your phone
Samsung Electronics is looking to press its momentum with the Galaxy S III smartphone.The Korean electronics conglomerate said it will offer up to $300 for an existing smartphone if you switch to one of its phones. You can check out the offer here. Samsung has emerged as a dominant player in the smartphone business, taking the crown away from Apple. While Apple has its limited iPhone lineup, Samsung has been able to take the lead on the back of a wide variety of smartphones. But its flagship Galaxy S III has proven to be a blockbuster around the world. Related storiesDialed in 110: Lessons for Android (podcast)Samsung's diva actKodak patent complaints target Apple, RIM3D TV FAQVerizon Wireless revamps unlimited calling, data plans Consumers can get a quote for their phone, purchase a Samsung phone, and mail in the old phone within 30 days. Samsung will then mail back a check for the device. Only a 64GB iPhone 4S on AT&T with HSPA+ will net you the full $300. The same phone on Verizon and Sprint with CDMA is only worth $250. Move past the newer iPhone, and the refund check starts to shrink. HTC's own flagship One X for AT&T is only worth $175. Motorola's Razr Maxx, which costs $250 with a two-year contract at Verizon Wireless, is worth $200. A BlackBerry Bold 9930 will net $135.Like the iPhone, Samsung has an advantage in distribution because its flagship Galaxy S III is available on virtually every carrier in the U.S.
Samsung Electronics is looking to press its momentum with the Galaxy S III smartphone.The Korean electronics conglomerate said it will offer up to $300 for an existing smartphone if you switch to one of its phones. You can check out the offer here. Samsung has emerged as a dominant player in the smartphone business, taking the crown away from Apple. While Apple has its limited iPhone lineup, Samsung has been able to take the lead on the back of a wide variety of smartphones. But its flagship Galaxy S III has proven to be a blockbuster around the world. Related storiesDialed in 110: Lessons for Android (podcast)Samsung's diva actKodak patent complaints target Apple, RIM3D TV FAQVerizon Wireless revamps unlimited calling, data plans Consumers can get a quote for their phone, purchase a Samsung phone, and mail in the old phone within 30 days. Samsung will then mail back a check for the device. Only a 64GB iPhone 4S on AT&T with HSPA+ will net you the full $300. The same phone on Verizon and Sprint with CDMA is only worth $250. Move past the newer iPhone, and the refund check starts to shrink. HTC's own flagship One X for AT&T is only worth $175. Motorola's Razr Maxx, which costs $250 with a two-year contract at Verizon Wireless, is worth $200. A BlackBerry Bold 9930 will net $135.Like the iPhone, Samsung has an advantage in distribution because its flagship Galaxy S III is available on virtually every carrier in the U.S.
Samsung- We've sold 50M Galaxy S and S II phones
Samsung: We've sold 50M Galaxy S and S II phones
More than 50 million Samsung Galaxy S smartphones have been sold since the original phone debuted in 2010, according to the Korean handset maker.Plugging its achievement in a news release today (English translation), Samsung said that 24 million units of the first Galaxy S phone have hit the sales market since June 2010, followed by 28 million Galaxy S II phones over the past year.Samsung uses the term "sales." But it's important to note that the company is actually referring to shipments since the numbers point to how many units have been shipped to retail channels. However, the hot demand for the Galaxy S phones means there's likely to be little difference between shipments to retailers and sales to customers.The news release says that the 50 million in record sales last year was double that of the entire smartphone market. Ironically, the English translation refers to that as a "shame." It's certainly a shame for the rest of the industry, but a high point for Samsung. Collectively, Samsung and Apple have scooped up virtually the entire mobile phone landscape, leaving little but scraps left over for the remaining players. The company's Galaxy Note has also joined in on the festivities, reaching 7 million in unit sales since its launch last October.Related storiesSamsung Galaxy S II reviewComparing the Galaxy S familySamsung Galaxy S II LTE getting bite of Ice Cream SandwichSamsung is probably expecting even hotter sales this year.The company just released the Galaxy S III phone across parts of Europe and the Middle East, with other regions slated to pick it up early this summer.This content is rated TV-MA, and is for viewers 18 years or older. Are you of age?YesNoSorry, you are not old enough to view this content.Play
More than 50 million Samsung Galaxy S smartphones have been sold since the original phone debuted in 2010, according to the Korean handset maker.Plugging its achievement in a news release today (English translation), Samsung said that 24 million units of the first Galaxy S phone have hit the sales market since June 2010, followed by 28 million Galaxy S II phones over the past year.Samsung uses the term "sales." But it's important to note that the company is actually referring to shipments since the numbers point to how many units have been shipped to retail channels. However, the hot demand for the Galaxy S phones means there's likely to be little difference between shipments to retailers and sales to customers.The news release says that the 50 million in record sales last year was double that of the entire smartphone market. Ironically, the English translation refers to that as a "shame." It's certainly a shame for the rest of the industry, but a high point for Samsung. Collectively, Samsung and Apple have scooped up virtually the entire mobile phone landscape, leaving little but scraps left over for the remaining players. The company's Galaxy Note has also joined in on the festivities, reaching 7 million in unit sales since its launch last October.Related storiesSamsung Galaxy S II reviewComparing the Galaxy S familySamsung Galaxy S II LTE getting bite of Ice Cream SandwichSamsung is probably expecting even hotter sales this year.The company just released the Galaxy S III phone across parts of Europe and the Middle East, with other regions slated to pick it up early this summer.This content is rated TV-MA, and is for viewers 18 years or older. Are you of age?YesNoSorry, you are not old enough to view this content.Play
Samsung- We don't intend to negotiate with Apple
Samsung: We don't intend to negotiate with Apple
It appears Samsung Electronics won't be following in HTC's footsteps. HTC on Saturday settled its long-running legal dispute with Apple, raising expectations that Samsung may do the same. But the Korean conglomerate's mobile chief, J.K. Shin, has told the Yonhap News Agency that the company will bank on a legal resolution instead of an out-of-court settlement. Shin said he doesn't intend to negotiate at all with Apple, illustrating just how far apart the two companies are. While Apple scored a significant victory in the U.S., there are a number of legal clashes going on around the world, all with varying levels of success so far for either side.CNET has contacted Samsung for comment on the HTC settlement, and we'll update the story when the company responds. Analysts predict that HTC will have to pay Apple up to $280 million a year as part of the cross-licensing deal, but HTC President Jason MacKenzie told CNET that the settlement wouldn't materially affect the company's financials. HTC was the first company that Apple sued over patents related to Android. At the time, HTC was the leader in Android smartphones, having jumped out ahead of its rivals. Nowadays, the company is still struggling to find its footing and is far behind leader Samsung, which is the world's largest smartphone manufacturer. Samsung has nearly a quarter of the mobile device market in the third quarter, compared with Apple's 5.5 percent share, according to Gartner. Shin also told the Korean news service that he expects fourth-quarter smartphone sales will be as strong as its third-quarter numbers, when sales of the Galaxy S III helped drive record operating profit.
It appears Samsung Electronics won't be following in HTC's footsteps. HTC on Saturday settled its long-running legal dispute with Apple, raising expectations that Samsung may do the same. But the Korean conglomerate's mobile chief, J.K. Shin, has told the Yonhap News Agency that the company will bank on a legal resolution instead of an out-of-court settlement. Shin said he doesn't intend to negotiate at all with Apple, illustrating just how far apart the two companies are. While Apple scored a significant victory in the U.S., there are a number of legal clashes going on around the world, all with varying levels of success so far for either side.CNET has contacted Samsung for comment on the HTC settlement, and we'll update the story when the company responds. Analysts predict that HTC will have to pay Apple up to $280 million a year as part of the cross-licensing deal, but HTC President Jason MacKenzie told CNET that the settlement wouldn't materially affect the company's financials. HTC was the first company that Apple sued over patents related to Android. At the time, HTC was the leader in Android smartphones, having jumped out ahead of its rivals. Nowadays, the company is still struggling to find its footing and is far behind leader Samsung, which is the world's largest smartphone manufacturer. Samsung has nearly a quarter of the mobile device market in the third quarter, compared with Apple's 5.5 percent share, according to Gartner. Shin also told the Korean news service that he expects fourth-quarter smartphone sales will be as strong as its third-quarter numbers, when sales of the Galaxy S III helped drive record operating profit.
Samsung took top ad honors during Oscars, firm says
Samsung took top ad honors during Oscars, firm says
Samsung ruled the roost with its advertising during last Sunday's Academy Awards broadcast, analytics firm Ace Metrix said today.According to individuals polled by the firm, two of Samsung's advertisements came in with top honors: one for the Galaxy Note, and the other for the company's SmartTV product line. Trailing in third place was Google for its Google+ commercial. And further down the list were other tech companies like Apple, Sprint, and AT&T, and non-tech companies like retailer JC Penney and Subway sandwiches. Ace Metrix"It seems the Oscars are becoming a showcase for tech and telecom advertising," said Peter Daboll, CEO of Ace Metrix in a statement. "The battle between AT&T and Sprint was clearly being played out during Oscar commercial breaks, and Samsung's bold, and very effective moves in promoting its Galaxy Note and its new SmartTV paid off." Related storiesSuper Bowling for ad dollarsSamsung's Bowl ad claims it can help Apple fanboys break freeSamsung flubs its Apple Super Bowl disAce Metrix says its "Ace Score" system measures how effective ads are based on user reaction, with a scoring system of zero to 950 based on "relevance, persuasion, watchability, information" and "attention."Not making the top 10 list was Hulu with its 60-second spot called "Alien Forces," however, the firm noted that it ranked higher than the company's Super Bowl ad earlier this month, which came in last place among the ads that were tracked. This poll in particular covered the 37 national ad spots which appeared during the Academy Awards, 24 of which were new, the firm said.
Samsung ruled the roost with its advertising during last Sunday's Academy Awards broadcast, analytics firm Ace Metrix said today.According to individuals polled by the firm, two of Samsung's advertisements came in with top honors: one for the Galaxy Note, and the other for the company's SmartTV product line. Trailing in third place was Google for its Google+ commercial. And further down the list were other tech companies like Apple, Sprint, and AT&T, and non-tech companies like retailer JC Penney and Subway sandwiches. Ace Metrix"It seems the Oscars are becoming a showcase for tech and telecom advertising," said Peter Daboll, CEO of Ace Metrix in a statement. "The battle between AT&T and Sprint was clearly being played out during Oscar commercial breaks, and Samsung's bold, and very effective moves in promoting its Galaxy Note and its new SmartTV paid off." Related storiesSuper Bowling for ad dollarsSamsung's Bowl ad claims it can help Apple fanboys break freeSamsung flubs its Apple Super Bowl disAce Metrix says its "Ace Score" system measures how effective ads are based on user reaction, with a scoring system of zero to 950 based on "relevance, persuasion, watchability, information" and "attention."Not making the top 10 list was Hulu with its 60-second spot called "Alien Forces," however, the firm noted that it ranked higher than the company's Super Bowl ad earlier this month, which came in last place among the ads that were tracked. This poll in particular covered the 37 national ad spots which appeared during the Academy Awards, 24 of which were new, the firm said.
Samsung to develop its own 64-bit mobile chip
Samsung to develop its own 64-bit mobile chip
Samsung will follow in Apple's footsteps with its own flavor of a 64-bit chip for mobile devices, the company disclosed on Wednesday. Described as a "2-step approach," Samsung is working first on an 64-bit processor based on a design from ARM, then, developing its own "optimized" 64-bit design, said Stephen Woo, president of System LSI at Samsung Electronics, during a presentation at Samsung's Analyst Day in Seoul, South Korea. "Many people were thinking, why did we need 64-bit for mobile devices?" asked Woo. "People were asking that question until three months ago. And now I think no one is asking that question.They're asking, when can we have that?"Apple drew plenty of oohs and aahs when it revealed the first 64-bit chip for smartphones in September. That Apple A7 processor is also an ARM-based design that has been optimized and tweaked by Apple. It is now in shipping in the iPhone 5S and iPad Air. Woo did not say when Samsung plans to release either of the 64-bit chips."We are marching on schedule," said Woo. "We will offer the first 64-bit [processor] based on ARM's own core. After that, we will offer an even more optimized 64-bit [processor] based on our own optimizations." Samsung may already be dropping hints of future of mobile devices packing PC-like memory capacities that would require a 64-bit processor. The Samsung Galaxy Note 3 can use 3GB of memory. Anything beyond 4GB and 64-bit chips become pretty much a necessity, as 32-bit processors in most cases can't address that much memory. The Samsung Galaxy Note 3 packs 3GB of memory -- which is pushing toward the upper limit for 32-bit processors.Josh Miller/CNET
Samsung will follow in Apple's footsteps with its own flavor of a 64-bit chip for mobile devices, the company disclosed on Wednesday. Described as a "2-step approach," Samsung is working first on an 64-bit processor based on a design from ARM, then, developing its own "optimized" 64-bit design, said Stephen Woo, president of System LSI at Samsung Electronics, during a presentation at Samsung's Analyst Day in Seoul, South Korea. "Many people were thinking, why did we need 64-bit for mobile devices?" asked Woo. "People were asking that question until three months ago. And now I think no one is asking that question.They're asking, when can we have that?"Apple drew plenty of oohs and aahs when it revealed the first 64-bit chip for smartphones in September. That Apple A7 processor is also an ARM-based design that has been optimized and tweaked by Apple. It is now in shipping in the iPhone 5S and iPad Air. Woo did not say when Samsung plans to release either of the 64-bit chips."We are marching on schedule," said Woo. "We will offer the first 64-bit [processor] based on ARM's own core. After that, we will offer an even more optimized 64-bit [processor] based on our own optimizations." Samsung may already be dropping hints of future of mobile devices packing PC-like memory capacities that would require a 64-bit processor. The Samsung Galaxy Note 3 can use 3GB of memory. Anything beyond 4GB and 64-bit chips become pretty much a necessity, as 32-bit processors in most cases can't address that much memory. The Samsung Galaxy Note 3 packs 3GB of memory -- which is pushing toward the upper limit for 32-bit processors.Josh Miller/CNET
iPhone 5 launching with 4-inch screen, new Dock connector-
iPhone 5 launching with 4-inch screen, new Dock connector?
The iPhone 5 rumors keep coming.Apple's upcoming smartphone will come with a 4-inch screen, due mainly to a thinner, taller body, according to Apple-focused site iLounge, citing an unnamed source. The site's source claims Apple's new iPhone will be 10mm taller than the iPhone 4S, and about 2mm thinner. By keeping the same width and tossing in the display to fit the new form factor, Apple is able to deliver more screen space than what's available on 3.5-inch-equipped iPhones, according to the source.Although the front of the iPhone 5 will look about the same, the back will feature a flat, metal panel stretching from beneath the camera to nearly the bottom. iLounge's sources did not say why the device might come with that additional element. Aside from the metal panel, the device will boast Gorilla Glass 2 technology, according to the site's source.One of the more surprising moves, though, might be iLounge's contention that Apple will launch the iPhone 5 with a new Dock connector featuring fewer pins than the 30-pin option found across its mobile devices today. The new connector is "closer to a pill shape" and will find its way to all future mobile devices the company launches, according to iLounge.Rumors have been surrounding the iPhone 5 for months now. Much of what iLounge claims will be coming to the device has already been cited in previous rumors. And in each case, Apple has stayed tight-lipped, allowing the rumor mill to heat up and speculation to run rampant. So, be sure to take all of this with a healthy heaping of salt until the final product is officially announced.And when might that final product be announced? iLounge says the iPhone 5 is slated for a fall release.
The iPhone 5 rumors keep coming.Apple's upcoming smartphone will come with a 4-inch screen, due mainly to a thinner, taller body, according to Apple-focused site iLounge, citing an unnamed source. The site's source claims Apple's new iPhone will be 10mm taller than the iPhone 4S, and about 2mm thinner. By keeping the same width and tossing in the display to fit the new form factor, Apple is able to deliver more screen space than what's available on 3.5-inch-equipped iPhones, according to the source.Although the front of the iPhone 5 will look about the same, the back will feature a flat, metal panel stretching from beneath the camera to nearly the bottom. iLounge's sources did not say why the device might come with that additional element. Aside from the metal panel, the device will boast Gorilla Glass 2 technology, according to the site's source.One of the more surprising moves, though, might be iLounge's contention that Apple will launch the iPhone 5 with a new Dock connector featuring fewer pins than the 30-pin option found across its mobile devices today. The new connector is "closer to a pill shape" and will find its way to all future mobile devices the company launches, according to iLounge.Rumors have been surrounding the iPhone 5 for months now. Much of what iLounge claims will be coming to the device has already been cited in previous rumors. And in each case, Apple has stayed tight-lipped, allowing the rumor mill to heat up and speculation to run rampant. So, be sure to take all of this with a healthy heaping of salt until the final product is officially announced.And when might that final product be announced? iLounge says the iPhone 5 is slated for a fall release.
What Emerging Theater Amenities Best Draw You to the Movies
Maybe one day we;ll just live in movie theaters. That;s the future I imagine whenever I think of the concurrent battle between cinema auditoriums and our living rooms. We keep trying to replicate the movie theater experience in our homes, whether we;re buying the biggest TV available or incorporating 3D into our entertainment system or buying microwave popcorn made to taste like the kind you get at the concession stand. Meanwhile, theater owners are trying to replicate the home-entertainment experience with dining options (because we all eat dinner in front of the set) and alcohol and recliner seats. If only they;d let us fast-forward the ads. Everything might be getting comfier at the movies, but that;s not necessarily a great thing for someone like me. Give me a big reclining chair, a heavy meal and a pint of beer and I;ll probably fall asleep by the end of the first act of a movie. I guess that;s cool if they;re really trying to mimic my home experience. I doze off in movies all the time there, too. But I don;t pay $15 for such luxury. Sure, I want some comfort at the movies, especially for the escapist fare, but some of these amenities are getting a little too familiar. Next they;ll be offering the opportunity to sit in my underwear and pause the show (sorry folks) for bathroom breaks. Some things theater chains are doing aren;t anything like the home experience, though. There;s reserved seating, which I guess wouldn;t be that necessary in your living room unless you have a large family and few favored couches or chairs. I can;t say I;ve ever worried enough about where I sit at the movies to be interested in reservations. Not enough that I don;t just get there early enough, anyway. Then there are the D-Box motion chairs, which are pretty neat if you don;t give a damn about the movie you;re going to see. They;re a little distracting and not quite as compatible with the escapist desires of blockbusters as they might seem on paper. Here;s what I;d like: seats that are as comfy as can be that have a special D-Box type component. It somehow senses when my eyes are shut and shakes me back awake. Surely I;m just an old man and the only one who;d ever complain about AMC;s plan to convert a third of its theaters by adding in wider seats that go all the way back. I shouldn;t go to the movies if I can;t stay awake, anyway. Or maybe I need a new amenity inspired by casinos: oxygen pumped into the auditorium. Seriously, though, my only desired amenity is a nice big screen with quality projection. Same as it;s always been. If I had to choose another, it;d be ushers in the auditorium at all times, monitoring for phone use, talking, crying babies and other annoyances. Contrary to what theater chains think, I don;t want the movie theater to be like my home. What theater amenity (reclining seats, reserved seats, D-Box seats, alcohol, etc.) best draws you to the movies? Here are some responses received so far via Twitter: @thefilmcynic Reclining chairs, but better movies wouldn’t be a bad start either. — Ethan Anderton (@Ethan_Anderton) July 8, 2014 @thefilmcynic The reclining chairs are pretty great here in GA. — Daniel Howat (@howatdk) July 8, 2014 @thefilmcynic reserved seats + no line waiting + comfortable, reclining chairs + high-end projection tech & surround installations — Larry Wright (@refocusedmedia) July 8, 2014 @thefilmcynic reserved seats, no talking and no texting. — Ieda Marcondes (@iedamarcondes) July 8, 2014 @thefilmcynic Reserved seating. No more standing in stupid lines. — Felix Peña III (@FelixTheIII) July 8, 2014 @thefilmcynic If they ran no ads before movies. — Citoyenne12 (@Citoyenne12) July 8, 2014 @thefilmcynic no kids, no talking, no food that crinkles when you open it, no food that crunches when you eat it. Yes, that includes popcorn — Wickerman (@XBL_Wickerman22) July 8, 2014 @thefilmcynic zero tolerance no talking/cell phones policy — Tyler Mager (@tylermager) July 8, 2014 @thefilmcynic Easily the shut the hell up policy of theaters like the Alamo Drafthouse. I really want it to catch on. — Jeremiah Olney (@LordofGodKings) July 8, 2014 @thefilmcynic NO CHILDREN!!! (aka 21 and up reserved showings) — justin robinson (@TheJSRobinson) July 8, 2014 @thefilmcynic IMAX/large format theaters. — Josh Gripman (@gripmonster) July 8, 2014 @thefilmcynic no one tall in front of me seats — Cara Perlman (@seaperl_) July 8, 2014 @thefilmcynic none of the above. Would prefer a theatre that bans phone use and loud talkers. — MargeGunderson (@SongWarmonger) July 8, 2014 @thefilmcynic Most of those things actually keep me AWAY from theaters. I;m not a fan of the megaplexes. — Kino McFarland (@KinoMcFarland) July 8, 2014 @thefilmcynic Personnel in the theater tasked with making sure sound/image is good and no one is texting or being an asshole (Arclight). — Zachary Zahos (@zacharyzahos) July 8, 2014 @thefilmcynic the absence of all — Randobae Autumn (@Camera_Angel) July 8, 2014 Join in the next discussion: and
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