Mobile Devices

Google to Launch Own-Brand Tablet?

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According to DisplaySearch analyst Richard Shim Google will start producing a Google-branded tablet as early as April 2012, with an initial production run totalling 1.5 to 2 million units.

Google tabletSpeaking with CNet, Shim says the Google tablet will probably compete with the Amazon Kindle Fire as an alternative low-cost model-- running on Android 4.0, it should have a 7" 1280x800 display and cost around $199.

After the Motorola Mobility acquision, it makes sense for Google to start producing ist own hardware. Motorola already has 3 tablet models, the Xoom, Xoom 2 and the Droid Xyboard.

Google is also reportedly working on a Google-branded wireless music streaming system, further cementing claims of Google planning to enter the hardware arena. Earlier in December 2011, Google's Eric Schmidt was also reported saying Google is laying the groundwork to “market a tablet of the highest quality.”

Go Google May Enter Tablet Market With 7" Design (CNet)

Go Google to Take on Living Room Sound

Apple Patents on Mobile 3D Displays

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A recent patent application shows some ideas from Apple on immersive glasses-free 3D displays-- with the sketches of a system gauging depth to display 3D images by tracking user eye movements.

apple patentTitled "Three Dimensional User Interface Effects on a Display by Using Properties of Motion,” the patent suggests the use of device compass, GPS, accelerometer and gyrometer to calculate the viewer's frame of reference. All these sensors add to a front-facing camera handling eye tracking duties.

The theoretical system even factors ambient lighting in the whole 3D view equation, and can also find implementation in desktop displays.

Currently Apple sells no devices with 3D displays. The only current mobile device carrying a 3D display worthy of note is the HTC Evo 3D, which uses parallax barrier for glasses-free 3D.

Go Three Dimensional User Interface Effects on a Display by Using Properties of Motion

Floodlight-Power Flashes in Mobile Sizes

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STMicroelectronics announces the STCF04, an integrated mobile camera LED flash module emitting as much as 40 Watts of light-- as much brightness as an outdoor security floodlight.

flashThe module is supercapacitor-powered and packs high-power white LEDs, with 8 user controlled flash levels and 12 brightness levels for flashlight use.

Current smartphones usually carry decent photo taking capabilities, but tend to lack flash technologies-- making them not too ideal for customers wanting to take photos in low lit environments.

OEMs will be able to order the module by Q1 2012 once STMicroelectronics starts production.

Go STMicroelectronics Breaks Through LED Camera Flash Limitations

A Kids' Tablet from Oregon Scientific

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MeepOregon Scientific enters the kid-centric tablet market with the MEEP!-- an Android-powered 7" tablet ideal for your customers' offspring.

It carries a Neonode zForce touchscreen inside a tough design, together with a rubber silicon sleeve for extra protection. Internet connection come through wifi, and parents can monitor their children's internet usage via parental controls adjustable through internet enabled devices.

An SD card slot allows the expansion of internal memory. Oregon Scientific says a MEEP! accessory range (including musical instruments) will also be available soon.

Go Oregon Scientific Announces New Tablet for Kids

Go Oregon Scientific

Samsung Unveils 7-inch Galaxy Tab Sequel

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Samsung announces a follow-up to the Galaxy Tab 7.0-- the Galaxy Tab 2 (7.0), the first Samsung tablet shipping with Android 4.0 (aka Ice Cream Sandwich).

galaxy tab 2Available in either 3G (HSPA+) or wifi versions, the device carries a 1GHz dual-core processor, 1GB RAM and a 1024x600 LCD display, together with Bluetooth connections, x2 cameras (3MP rear-facing and a VGA front-facing webcam) and a variety of embedded Google applications.

A 4000mAh battery powers the device, while A-GPS is also included.

The tablet is set to hit the global market on March 2012, launching first in the UK.

Go Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 (7.0)