Switched http://www.switched.com Switched http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.switched.com/media/feedlogo.gif Switched http://www.switched.com prods@weblogsinc.com (Weblogs, Inc. Producers) support@weblogsinc.com (Weblogs, Inc. Web Support) en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. View our terms of service here: http://www.weblogsinc.com/feed-terms/ Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/ <![CDATA[How to Find Out Who's Watching Your Online Activity]]> http://www.switched.com/2009/02/02/how-to-find-out-whos-watching-your-online-activity/ http://www.switched.com/2009/02/02/how-to-find-out-whos-watching-your-online-activity/ http://www.switched.com/2009/02/02/how-to-find-out-whos-watching-your-online-activity/#comments

Who is watching you?

The answer is also a new term to include in your Web vocabulary: Web Bugs. No, these aren't viruses and they aren't even malicious. Companies do use them, though, to track your online activity so that they can serve up ads that more effectively target you as a user and as a consumer.

Ghostery is a Web plug-in that alerts you whenever a Web Bug is monitoring your online activity. A Web Bug is slightly different from a cookie, which -- as many of our readers know -- is also a bit of information that Web sites use to track you as a user. Cookies are the small pieces of code that help a Web site remember who you are. For example, if you sign into sites such as Delta.com to check your Frequent Flyer account, or if you sign in to Amazon.com and check the box that allows the site to remember your login information, a cookie is placed on your computer.

Continue reading How to Find Out Who's Watching Your Online Activity

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How to Find Out Who's Watching Your Online Activity originally appeared on Switched on Mon, 02 Feb 2009 09:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> cookiesfeaturedfeaturesinternet privacyInternetPrivacymonitoringplug-inprivacytechtipstrackingweb bugWebBug switchedtips@gmail.com (Will Safer) Mon, 02 Feb 2009 09:20:00 EST Switched <![CDATA[Scammers Baiting Internet Users with Fake Obama Web Sites]]> http://www.switched.com/2009/01/21/scammers-baiting-internet-users-with-fake-obama-web-sites/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/21/scammers-baiting-internet-users-with-fake-obama-web-sites/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/21/scammers-baiting-internet-users-with-fake-obama-web-sites/#comments
If you receive an e-mail or visit a Web page asking you to look at BestBarack.com, JoBarack.com or TheBarackSite.com, just don't do it. According to Panda Security, an Internet security firm, scores of malicious Web sites are running a fake news story entitled "Barack Obama has refused to be a president."

People who go to the sites are asked to download a file, which (of course) is a virus that will turn your computer into a so-called zombie. What is a zombie, you ask? We've got a nice description here, but, basically, a zombie is an infected computer that can be controlled by a far-away hacker. Not nice.

Throughout the presidential campaign and lead-up to the inauguration, enterprising ne'er-do-wells used the names and images of President Obama and John McCain to trick people into downloading viruses or falling for scams.

Continue reading Scammers Baiting Internet Users with Fake Obama Web Sites

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Scammers Baiting Internet Users with Fake Obama Web Sites originally appeared on Switched on Wed, 21 Jan 2009 16:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> expire-images2010-1-21hackerMcCainObamascamsecuritytopviruszombie switchedtips@gmail.com (Will Safer) Wed, 21 Jan 2009 16:19:00 EST Switched <![CDATA[GPS No Longer Just for Getting You to Your Destination]]> http://www.switched.com/2009/01/21/gps-no-longer-just-for-getting-you-to-your-destination/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/21/gps-no-longer-just-for-getting-you-to-your-destination/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/21/gps-no-longer-just-for-getting-you-to-your-destination/#comments


GPS is no longer a technology that solely helps you get from point A to point B along the nation's highways and byways. Illustrating that point is a trend we noted at the recent Consumer Electronics Show: namely, the placement of GPS units into devices -- cameras, laptops -- that previously seemed to work just fine without them. Check out the following pages for some examples of the latest uses for GPS in gadgets.

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GPS No Longer Just for Getting You to Your Destination originally appeared on Switched on Wed, 21 Jan 2009 12:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> ces-2009-featuresces-2009-features-topces-2009-topexpire-images2010-1-21GPStrends switchedtips@gmail.com (Will Safer) Wed, 21 Jan 2009 12:20:00 EST Switched <![CDATA[Does Using Facebook Help Your Self-Esteem?]]> http://www.switched.com/2009/01/20/does-using-facebook-help-your-self-esteem/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/20/does-using-facebook-help-your-self-esteem/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/20/does-using-facebook-help-your-self-esteem/#comments What role does Facebook play in your life? If you use the social networking site, has it replaced your former ways of communicating with friends? Enhanced it? Diminished it?

Those are the questions many Facebook users are asking themselves these days as they spend more time on the site, updating their status, joining groups and, yes, making new friends. But with all that time and virtual interaction, are they losing touch with, well, the human touch?

That's also the question posed by Time.com writer Lisa Selin Davis who asks "Does Facebook Replace Face Time or Enhance It?"

Davis seems to answer the question with a somewhat hedged "enhance," as she tells of old friends reconnecting and admits to learning more about her own friends' activities than she ever did before joining the social networking site.

Continue reading Does Using Facebook Help Your Self-Esteem?

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Does Using Facebook Help Your Self-Esteem? originally appeared on Switched on Tue, 20 Jan 2009 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> Facebooksocial networkingSocialNetworkingtopweb switchedtips@gmail.com (Will Safer) Tue, 20 Jan 2009 17:29:00 EST Switched <![CDATA[Obama Aides Not Happy About Giving Up IM -- :(]]> http://www.switched.com/2009/01/20/obama-aides-not-happy-about-giving-up-im/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/20/obama-aides-not-happy-about-giving-up-im/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/20/obama-aides-not-happy-about-giving-up-im/#comments

Barack Obama's aides learned Friday they'll have to give up one of their favorite means of communicating with each other, the media, and the outside world: the near-ubiquitous instant message.

The new White House lawyers say any communication involving government business that is sent via instant message will become a part of the official record and therefore subject to The Presidential Records Act, which states that official communication becomes public record five years after a president leaves office. This could open up Obama's staff to unwanted scrutiny; as the kind of conversation that occurs via instant message is often in an off-the-cuff, unguarded style, staffers could write messages that are easily misinterpreted, or just plain embarrassing.

Some messages could become public even before Obama leaves the White House, if there is a Congressional inquiry or lawsuit.

Continue reading Obama Aides Not Happy About Giving Up IM -- :(

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Obama Aides Not Happy About Giving Up IM -- :( originally appeared on Switched on Tue, 20 Jan 2009 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> barack obamaBarackObamaIMinstant messagingInstantMessagingObamapoliticsWhite HouseWhiteHouse switchedtips@gmail.com (Will Safer) Tue, 20 Jan 2009 15:45:00 EST Switched <![CDATA[GPS No Longer Just for Getting You to Your Destination 3]]> http://www.switched.com/2009/01/20/gps-no-longer-just-for-getting-you-to-your-destination-3/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/20/gps-no-longer-just-for-getting-you-to-your-destination-3/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/20/gps-no-longer-just-for-getting-you-to-your-destination-3/#comments


We didn't get as much information on the new Asus T91 tablet PC as we'd like, but, among the specifications announced during CES, a few piqued our interest for sure. Of course, GPS as an option leads the way. (Leads the way - get it? LEADS the way. Thank you.)

Add optional TV and FM tuners and you've got a pretty capable little device. It's 8.9 inches across, has a pivoting display, weighs two pounds, and is a mere 1-inch thick. It will feature an Intel Atom processor and Windows XP. The PC will be available sometime in March, but its price is yet to be determined. The folks at Asus say they are still working on a customized interface based on touch.

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GPS No Longer Just for Getting You to Your Destination 3 originally appeared on Switched on Tue, 20 Jan 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> AsusGPST91 switchedtips@gmail.com (Will Safer) Tue, 20 Jan 2009 14:00:00 EST Switched <![CDATA[GPS No Longer Just for Getting You to Your Destination 2]]> http://www.switched.com/2009/01/20/gps-no-longer-just-for-getting-you-to-your-destination-2/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/20/gps-no-longer-just-for-getting-you-to-your-destination-2/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/20/gps-no-longer-just-for-getting-you-to-your-destination-2/#comments


An obvious place to implant a GPS unit is a rear-view mirror. In fact, we wonder why this wasn't thought up before. Well, we're just glad the folks at Azentek came up with the SmartMirror. This $800 aftermarket replacement product sleekly puts a fully-functioning Navigon GPS unit right in the mirror. The screen can even be connected to a rear-facing camera on the back of your car to help you navigate while in reverse. Navigon may not be the first manufacturer that comes to mind when considering a GPS device, but this type of obvious innovation deserves a look.

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GPS No Longer Just for Getting You to Your Destination 2 originally appeared on Switched on Tue, 20 Jan 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> Azentek SmartMirrorAzentekSmartmirrorGPSNavigontrends switchedtips@gmail.com (Will Safer) Tue, 20 Jan 2009 14:00:00 EST Switched <![CDATA[GPS No Longer Just for Getting You to Your Destination 6]]> http://www.switched.com/2009/01/20/gps-no-longer-just-for-getting-you-to-your-destination-6/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/20/gps-no-longer-just-for-getting-you-to-your-destination-6/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/20/gps-no-longer-just-for-getting-you-to-your-destination-6/#comments


In the not-so-obvious-but-brilliant GPS-enabled device category are three of Sony Electronics' camcorders, all announced at the show. The HDR-XR520V, HDR-XR500V and HDR-XR200V all include a GPS chip including NAVTEQ maps. You can "geotag" your video or still images, making it easy to show other people exactly where you were on that hiking trip.

These camcorders go a step beyond another GPS-enabled device introduced last year: the Nikon P6000 digital still camera. That camera has a GPS chip, but is limited to embedding your location information in the digital file. This is fine if you want to post your images to a Web site that utilizes geotagging information, but the Sony units actually display the maps on their LCD screens. This means that you can review where you've been right on the device instead of having to wait until you upload your image or video files to a computer or Web site. (Note: we don't suggest using these camcorders to plan driving routes or to get "unlost" during a camping trip.) The HDR-XR520V, HDR-XR500V and HDR-XR200V will begin shipping in March for about $1,500, $1,300 and $1,000 respectively.

(Editor's note: if you want to try geotagging with your digital still camera and aren't ready to drop big bucks on a new GPS-enabled camera or camcorder, maybe a GPS-enabled memory card from Eye-Fi is a way to get started.)

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GPS No Longer Just for Getting You to Your Destination 6 originally appeared on Switched on Tue, 20 Jan 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> camcordergeotagGPSSonytrends switchedtips@gmail.com (Will Safer) Tue, 20 Jan 2009 14:00:00 EST Switched <![CDATA[GPS No Longer Just for Getting You to Your Destination 4]]> http://www.switched.com/2009/01/20/gps-no-longer-just-for-getting-you-to-your-destination-4/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/20/gps-no-longer-just-for-getting-you-to-your-destination-4/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/20/gps-no-longer-just-for-getting-you-to-your-destination-4/#comments


Sony must be feeling good about geotagging and other location-based services, seeing as the company included a GPS chip in its Vaio P series netbook computer, announced at the show. ('Netbook' is another word for a very small, yet very capable, laptop.) With this functionality, the P lets you find points of interest based on your location, like restaurants, hotels and so on. Just like a regular GPS device, this clutch-purse-sized computer offers you routing and destination information, too. The P is coming in February for about $900.

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GPS No Longer Just for Getting You to Your Destination 4 originally appeared on Switched on Tue, 20 Jan 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> gpsnetbookSonytrendsvaio pVaioP switchedtips@gmail.com (Will Safer) Tue, 20 Jan 2009 14:00:00 EST Switched <![CDATA[GPS No Longer Just for Getting You to Your Destination 5]]> http://www.switched.com/2009/01/20/gps-no-longer-just-for-getting-you-to-your-destination-5/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/20/gps-no-longer-just-for-getting-you-to-your-destination-5/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/20/gps-no-longer-just-for-getting-you-to-your-destination-5/#comments


Dell decided to tease the Consumer Electronics Show crowd with only a few details of its Mini 10 netbook computer, which comes with built-in GPS. We don't yet have details on how capable this device will be in regards to geotagging, directions or other functionality. We also don't know when -- and at what price -- the Mini 10 will become available, but we'll provide more details as they come.

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GPS No Longer Just for Getting You to Your Destination 5 originally appeared on Switched on Tue, 20 Jan 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> Dellgpstrends switchedtips@gmail.com (Will Safer) Tue, 20 Jan 2009 14:00:00 EST Switched <![CDATA[Facebook Fans Honoring Heroic US Airways Pilot]]> http://www.switched.com/2009/01/16/facebook-fans-honoring-heroic-us-airways-pilot/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/16/facebook-fans-honoring-heroic-us-airways-pilot/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/16/facebook-fans-honoring-heroic-us-airways-pilot/#comments
It took only hours but with all the passengers and crew of US Airways Flight 1549 declared safe it was, perhaps, inevitable that a Facebook fan page was crafted in dedication to the pilot who skillfully guided the plane to its controlled landing in the Hudson River off the edge of Manhattan.

Chesley B. "Sully" Sullenberger III, 57, of Danville, Calif., a former Air Force pilot and now hero to at least 154 other people and their families, is the focal point of -- at latest count -- six different Facebook fan pages, the most popular one with more than 300 members. Many people learned of the crash from their Twitter feeds. It seems a natural progression now to see pages like this one crop up on social networking sites.

Comments such as "I'm a student pilot working my way up the aviation ladder, and you have inspired me today" and "You are a stud. NICE JOB AND THANK YOU!!!!" grace the "The Wall" section of the page.

Continue reading Facebook Fans Honoring Heroic US Airways Pilot

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Facebook Fans Honoring Heroic US Airways Pilot originally appeared on Switched on Fri, 16 Jan 2009 10:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> crashdisastersFacebookpilotplanesocial-networkingtopUS AirwaysUsAirways switchedtips@gmail.com (Will Safer) Fri, 16 Jan 2009 10:43:00 EST Switched <![CDATA[Speaker Of The House, Nancy Pelosi, Rickrolls America]]> http://www.switched.com/2009/01/15/speaker-of-the-house-rickrolls-america/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/15/speaker-of-the-house-rickrolls-america/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/15/speaker-of-the-house-rickrolls-america/#comments
Even if you don't agree with her politics, you must admit Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi has a sense of humor. To celebrate the launch of the U.S. Congress' YouTube channels for the House and Senate, Pelosi posted a video of her cats roaming around her Capitol office, playing with her gavel, and enjoying the view. That alone works well enough for us.

That she Rickrolls us halfway through the video is the piece de résistance. It's a nice nod toward the Web 2.0, social networking, tongue-in-cheek, spoofing, smirking, online crowd that funnels easily half their energy into viewing and contributing content to such sites as FailBlog, FailDogs, I Can Has Cheez Burger, and others.

What does it mean to be Rickroll'd? It's a basic bait-and-switch gag, bouncing around the Interwebs in many, many forms. Typically a viewer or reader is provided with a link to a Web site claiming to have some important information, something relevant to the serious topic at hand. The gotcha moment comes when you're presented with the video from Rick Astley's 1987 release "Never Gonna Give You Up." The use of Rickrolling is increasing, even crossing over into real-life situations.

Continue reading Speaker Of The House, Nancy Pelosi, Rickrolls America

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Speaker Of The House, Nancy Pelosi, Rickrolls America originally appeared on Switched on Thu, 15 Jan 2009 13:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> congressNancy PelosiNancyPelosipoliticsrickrollRickrollingspeaker of the houseSpeakerOfTheHousevideoweb 2.0Web2.0weird switchedtips@gmail.com (Will Safer) Thu, 15 Jan 2009 13:42:00 EST Switched <![CDATA[Steve Jobs to Take Six-Month Leave From Apple]]> http://www.switched.com/2009/01/14/steve-jobs-to-take-six-month-leave-from-apple/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/14/steve-jobs-to-take-six-month-leave-from-apple/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/14/steve-jobs-to-take-six-month-leave-from-apple/#comments

Steve Jobs, co-founder and CEO of Apple Computer, will be taking a leave of absence from the company due to health reasons until June, according to initial reports on AOL Money and the Wall Street Journal Online.

This news resulted in Apple's stock price taking a hit, although by the time of this writing, no one can say where the price will settle.

It was only on January 5 that Jobs sent a letter to Apple employees, which was made available to the public, describing a "hormone imbalance" that had been affecting his health throughout the prior year. Jobs' weight loss had been causing rumors among Apple fans, investors and the public, and the letter was intended to assuage the concern among many that he was possibly near death. Apple's stock price had been suffering and his announcement had given confidence to many.

Continue reading Steve Jobs to Take Six-Month Leave From Apple

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Steve Jobs to Take Six-Month Leave From Apple originally appeared on Switched on Wed, 14 Jan 2009 17:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> ApplehealthSteve JobsSteveJobs switchedtips@gmail.com (Will Safer) Wed, 14 Jan 2009 17:23:00 EST Switched <![CDATA[Soundbars at CES 5]]> http://www.switched.com/2009/01/12/soundbars-at-ces-5/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/12/soundbars-at-ces-5/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/12/soundbars-at-ces-5/#comments


iLuv iSP200

This soundbar, from iLuv (which can probably guess makes iPod accessories), is not quite like other home theater models we're covering since it's targeted for computer users. Meant for home or travel, it has a three jack USB input hub and 32 watts of power in detachable speakers and a subwoofer. The iSP200 should be out by June for about $100, which is far less than the other soundbars in this roundup but a bit more than we like to spend on computer speakers.

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Soundbars at CES 5 originally appeared on Switched on Mon, 12 Jan 2009 18:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> switchedtips@gmail.com (Will Safer) Mon, 12 Jan 2009 18:31:00 EST Switched <![CDATA[Soundbars at CES 3]]> http://www.switched.com/2009/01/12/soundbars-at-ces-3/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/12/soundbars-at-ces-3/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/12/soundbars-at-ces-3/#comments


Samsung HT-BD8200

Samsung's approach to the soundbar is completely wrapped up in its Blu-ray Disc player effort. The HT-BD8200 has a wireless subwoofer, virtual 5.1-channel surround sound, an iPod dock, and a network connection for BD-Live, Netflix, and other streaming subscription services. Like many other sound systems and TVs at the show, it has a volume leveling feature so sound isn't too loud or soft during TV shows or commercials. The HT-BD8200 is coming in the first half of 2009 but the price isn't yet set.

Soundbars at CES 3 originally appeared on Switched on Mon, 12 Jan 2009 18:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> switchedtips@gmail.com (Will Safer) Mon, 12 Jan 2009 18:31:00 EST Switched <![CDATA[Soundbars at CES 4]]> http://www.switched.com/2009/01/12/soundbars-at-ces-4/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/12/soundbars-at-ces-4/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/12/soundbars-at-ces-4/#comments


Polk Audio SurroundBar SDA Instant Home Theater

Polk Audio already has soundbars on the market but the company used CES as an opportunity to introduce a new unit that claims easy connections to just about any TV, although of course they say it looks best with a flat panel TV like like in the above picture. Coming with a wireless subwoofer, this model is 31.75-inches long but only has one analog audio input. It should be on shelves by the end of January for around $500.

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]]> switchedtips@gmail.com (Will Safer) Mon, 12 Jan 2009 18:31:00 EST Switched <![CDATA[Soundbars at CES 6]]> http://www.switched.com/2009/01/12/soundbars-at-ces-6/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/12/soundbars-at-ces-6/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/12/soundbars-at-ces-6/#comments




At pretty much the other end of the spectrum from the entry-level iLuv is the B&W Panorama, a soundbar that claims a great audio pedigree -- and a $2,200 price tag. Sure, that seems like a lot but you're getting a lot for your money, including nine drivers (that's speakers to you and me) and three amplifiers to produce a full range of sound. It also has all the right inputs for all your devices: two optical digital inputs, one coaxial digital input and two stereo analog inputs. The Panorama will be out this spring.

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]]> switchedtips@gmail.com (Will Safer) Mon, 12 Jan 2009 18:31:00 EST Switched <![CDATA[Soundbars at CES 2]]> http://www.switched.com/2009/01/12/soundbars-at-ces-2/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/12/soundbars-at-ces-2/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/12/soundbars-at-ces-2/#comments


Sharp HT-SB300

This is one of Sharp's two soundbars, the other being the HT-SB200. Both are 34-watt devices with SRS WOW HD Sound. The HT-SB300 adds digital audio decoding with DTS, Dolby Digital and Dolby Pro Logic II decoder, as well as a subwoofer output jack and Dolby Virtual Speaker, which simulates the 5.1 channel surround sound. The HT-SB300 is coming in April for $300 and the HT-SB200 will on shelves by the end of this month for $250.

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]]> switchedtips@gmail.com (Will Safer) Mon, 12 Jan 2009 18:31:00 EST Switched <![CDATA[Sleek Soundbars at CES]]> http://www.switched.com/2009/01/12/soundbars-at-ces/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/12/soundbars-at-ces/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/12/soundbars-at-ces/#comments


Every year at the CES, new trends quietly percolate up among the product displays. One thing that stuck out was the proliferation of soundbars, those long, sleek speaker systems that typically claim to produce simulated surround sound despite having only 2.1 capability (that's "2" for the number of side speakers channels and "1" for the bass). Click through to see some of the soundbars that caught our eye (and ears), either for fidelity, design, or price. Giving them a listen will be up to you.

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]]> ces-2009-topsoundbars switchedtips@gmail.com (Will Safer) Mon, 12 Jan 2009 18:31:00 EST Switched <![CDATA[Coby Vitruvian -- the Rotating iPod Dock]]> http://www.switched.com/2009/01/12/coby-vitruvian-the-rotating-ipod-dock/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/12/coby-vitruvian-the-rotating-ipod-dock/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/12/coby-vitruvian-the-rotating-ipod-dock/#comments Coby calls this iPhone and iPod touch dock the "Vitruvian," for Leonardo da Vinci's famous drawing of the perfect human form. As a design piece we expected the price to be a little high but we were pleasantly surprised to learn it will carry a $79 tag when it hits store shelves sometime this summer.

The dock rotates to take advantage of the iPhone and Touch's position sensor - so if you're watching a movie you need only turn the unit horizontally. The video really says it all.

Coby is known as a less expensive brand that makes digital photo frames, some MP3 players and a few other iPod docks and alarm clock combo units. We're wondering why they don't apply this same design finesse to their other products, but in the meantime this iPhone dock is a good start.

The Sharper Image, which is no longer the store but a new brand for a small collection of products, has its rotating iPhone and iPod Touch dock, as well. Though this one is motorized and sleek, we actually like the Coby a bit more for its simplicity. The Sharper Image unit is coming the first quarter of 2009 for about $70.

Continue reading Coby Vitruvian -- the Rotating iPod Dock

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Coby Vitruvian -- the Rotating iPod Dock originally appeared on Switched on Mon, 12 Jan 2009 13:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> ces-2009-topces-2009-videosces-2009-videos-topcobyinexpensiveiphoneipod touchIpodTouch switchedtips@gmail.com (Will Safer) Mon, 12 Jan 2009 13:49:00 EST Switched <![CDATA[Earbuds Blooming in 2009 -- We Like These 7]]> http://www.switched.com/2009/01/12/earbuds-blooming-in-2009-we-like-these-7/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/12/earbuds-blooming-in-2009-we-like-these-7/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/12/earbuds-blooming-in-2009-we-like-these-7/#comments
These Koss earbuds

Koss CC_01

These adjusting earbuds from Koss purport to solve one of the common complaints about in-ear headphones -- the fit. Most are either too big or too small, resulting in poor audio quality at best and pain at worst. Koss's model has a soft memory foam cushion that adjusts with the twist of a 'Neural Knob' dial, expanding in the ear to create a snug fit and limiting outside noise. The cords are made of nylon, which helps cut down on tangles, the other main complaint we hear about earbuds. Koss will bring these headphones - model number CC_01 - to market this spring for about $150.

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Earbuds Blooming in 2009 -- We Like These 7 originally appeared on Switched on Mon, 12 Jan 2009 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> earbudsKoss switchedtips@gmail.com (Will Safer) Mon, 12 Jan 2009 11:45:00 EST Switched <![CDATA[Earbuds Blooming in 2009 -- We Like These 3]]> http://www.switched.com/2009/01/12/earbuds-blooming-in-2009-we-like-these-3/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/12/earbuds-blooming-in-2009-we-like-these-3/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/12/earbuds-blooming-in-2009-we-like-these-3/#comments


S1 Audio BudBud Solo

At CES, S1 Audio introduced its BudBud Solo earbud headphones, which take an interesting approach to being both a single mobile phone earbud/mic and stereo headphones. The two earbuds slot into each other, allowing the wearer to place the speaker units in one ear for a phone call and then separate them for stereo music listening. Convenient and innovative, we think, and good looking to boot. You'll see them in the first quarter of this year for about $40.

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Earbuds Blooming in 2009 -- We Like These 3 originally appeared on Switched on Mon, 12 Jan 2009 11:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> switchedtips@gmail.com (Will Safer) Mon, 12 Jan 2009 11:24:00 EST Switched <![CDATA[Car Rear-View Mirror With Built-In GPS -- a Brilliant Idea]]> http://www.switched.com/2009/01/12/azentech-smartmirror-combines-navigon-gps-with-rearview-mirror/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/12/azentech-smartmirror-combines-navigon-gps-with-rearview-mirror/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/12/azentech-smartmirror-combines-navigon-gps-with-rearview-mirror/#comments

Azentek's SmartMirror is a combination rearview mirror and GPS unit - an obvious marriage of old and new in-car tools that is so obvious we wonder why more companies aren't bringing these to market.

The GPS software is by Navigon, so you've got a fairly well-respected navigation device maker's know-how in the product.

We wonder if the SmartView will be appealing to crooks who want to smash a window to grab the GPS but when we talked with Johnny Cooper, Azentek president and CEO, here at the Consumer Electronics Show he assured us that when it's turned off the unit looks just like a regular rear-view mirror and therefor won't be obvious fodder for a baddie. We'll take his word for it - for now.

Continue reading Car Rear-View Mirror With Built-In GPS -- a Brilliant Idea

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Car Rear-View Mirror With Built-In GPS -- a Brilliant Idea originally appeared on Switched on Mon, 12 Jan 2009 04:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> car safetyCarSafetyCES 2009ces-2009-topCes2009GPS switchedtips@gmail.com (Will Safer) Mon, 12 Jan 2009 04:41:00 EST Switched <![CDATA[NuM8 GPS Locator Tracks Your Kid, Not The Tech]]> http://www.switched.com/2009/01/10/num8-gps-locator-tracks-your-kid-not-the-tech/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/10/num8-gps-locator-tracks-your-kid-not-the-tech/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/10/num8-gps-locator-tracks-your-kid-not-the-tech/#comments
The folks at U.K.-based Lok8u say they have a solution to the major flaw of GPS locator devices: most systems only track the technology and not the actual person or product you want to monitor. That's because a kid can ditch the backpack in which you've placed a location device or, worse, a ne'er-do-well type can remove the GPS locator from the kid - leaving the concerned parent without the real information they need.

Announced here at CES, the NuM8 is a GPS locator that attaches to a child's wrist like a watch. In fact, it does tell the time, which is part of the appeal for a parent and child. The kid won't feel like he or she is wearing something weird and the parent won't feel like they're sticking a house-arrest bracelet on their child.

To find the kid's location a parent simply sends the text message "wru" from a registered number to Lok8u or goes to the company's Web portal to click "where r you" and the child's location is shown on a Google map.

If the watch is forcibly removed from the child's wrist an alert is immediately sent to the parent's mobile phone with location information. Parents can also set up safe zones for the child.

It'll be available this summer for $200 and will have a $10 monthly fee.

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NuM8 GPS Locator Tracks Your Kid, Not The Tech originally appeared on Switched on Sat, 10 Jan 2009 17:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> CESces-2009-topGPS locatorGpsLocator switchedtips@gmail.com (Will Safer) Sat, 10 Jan 2009 17:24:00 EST Switched <![CDATA[Audiovox Rear View Camera and Sensor Is an Easy Self-Install Project]]> http://www.switched.com/2009/01/09/rear-view-camera-and-sensor-is-an-easy-self-install-project/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/09/rear-view-camera-and-sensor-is-an-easy-self-install-project/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/09/rear-view-camera-and-sensor-is-an-easy-self-install-project/#comments

Do-It-Yourselfers with an interest in car safety can get a clear view of what's behind their vehicle with Audiovox's CAMSBAR, a camera and alert system for driving in reverse. We like the simplicity of this device, both from the install perspective and the product capability.

The CAMSBAR is a crash-avoidance camera that attaches to the rear of your car, either above or below the bumper or on the license plate holder, and automatically turns on when shift into reverse. The system draws power from the reverse lights on your car, an obvious and simple solution.

The rear unit is a heavy-duty chrome bar that holds the water and dust-proof camera and sensors. It takes a single connection at the reverse lamp and includes a 19-foot extension cable to simplify the monitor installation. The camera gives you a 110 degree wide-angle view and two parking sensors provide an audio and digital distance indication of objects behind the vehicle, like another car or child. An audible warning beep becomes faster as your car gets closer to whatever is lurking behind and the 2.5-inch LCD monitor that mounts on your dash provides the image in 640x480 resolution. It'll run you about $200 when it hits retail shelves later this winter.

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Audiovox Rear View Camera and Sensor Is an Easy Self-Install Project originally appeared on Switched on Fri, 09 Jan 2009 17:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> car camscar safetyCarCamsCarSafetyces-2009-topDIY switchedtips@gmail.com (Will Safer) Fri, 09 Jan 2009 17:38:00 EST Switched <![CDATA[Five Gadgets We Want This Year 6]]> http://www.switched.com/2009/01/08/five-gadgets-we-want-this-year-6/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/08/five-gadgets-we-want-this-year-6/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/08/five-gadgets-we-want-this-year-6/#comments

70x Zoom HD Camcorders

Also from Panasonic are the first HD camcorders with 70x optical zoom. We know Panasonic has a good history with optical image stabilization but we're waiting to see these two units in action. At that extreme zoom we expect the blurriness from your shaky hand might churn out video that's a little less than stellar. The SDR-H80, with a 60GB hard drive, will run you $449.95, while the SDR-90, with an 80GB hard drive, goes for $499.95. For a cheaper option, the SDR-S26, which uses SD memory cards, will run you $329.95. All three camcorders will be available in April for your sporting and spying needs.

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Five Gadgets We Want This Year 6 originally appeared on Switched on Thu, 08 Jan 2009 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> switchedtips@gmail.com (Will Safer) Thu, 08 Jan 2009 17:40:00 EST Switched <![CDATA[Five Gadgets We Want This Year 5]]> http://www.switched.com/2009/01/08/five-gadgets-we-want-this-year-5/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/08/five-gadgets-we-want-this-year-5/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/08/five-gadgets-we-want-this-year-5/#comments

Portable Blu-ray Player

Panasonic introduced the world's first portable Blu-ray Disc player at CES, and we are certainly impressed. The DMP-B15 features an 8.9-inch WSVGA LCD screen and includes VIERA Cast Internet accessibility and BD-Live functionality. The DMP-B15 will be available in May but we don't yet know a price. Hopefully you haven't watched 'The Dark Knight' too many times by then.

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Five Gadgets We Want This Year 5 originally appeared on Switched on Thu, 08 Jan 2009 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> switchedtips@gmail.com (Will Safer) Thu, 08 Jan 2009 17:40:00 EST Switched <![CDATA[Five Gadgets We Want This Year 4]]> http://www.switched.com/2009/01/08/five-gadgets-we-want-this-year-4/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/08/five-gadgets-we-want-this-year-4/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/08/five-gadgets-we-want-this-year-4/#comments  

Sony GPS Camcorders

By combining a camcorder with GPS, Sony is putting together two of our favorite technologies. With the $1,500 HDR-XR500V 120GB HD camcorder, the $1,300 XR200V 120 GB HD camcorder, and the $1,000 XR100 80GB HD camcorder, you'll be able to geotag your videos and still shots. All are coming out in March. Scavenger hunts will never be the same.

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Five Gadgets We Want This Year 4 originally appeared on Switched on Thu, 08 Jan 2009 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> switchedtips@gmail.com (Will Safer) Thu, 08 Jan 2009 17:40:00 EST Switched <![CDATA[Five Gadgets We Want This Year 3]]> http://www.switched.com/2009/01/08/five-gadgets-we-want-this-year-3/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/08/five-gadgets-we-want-this-year-3/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/08/five-gadgets-we-want-this-year-3/#comments
The Touchscreen Wristwatch Phone

LG introduced the crowd to its Touch Watch Phone, the first wristwatch touchscreen phone to come to market. The LG-GD910 has 3G Video Telephony service and GSM Quadband Network capabilities. It has a curved tempered glass face, metal casing and is 13.9mm thick. The 1.43-inch screen features a Flash Interface, voice recognition features, text to Speech, stereo Bluetooth and a built-in speaker for music playback. The phone is set to go on sale in Europe sometime in 2009. Now you can be a real Dick Tracy instead of talking into your Seiko.

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Five Gadgets We Want This Year 3 originally appeared on Switched on Thu, 08 Jan 2009 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> switchedtips@gmail.com (Will Safer) Thu, 08 Jan 2009 17:40:00 EST Switched <![CDATA[Five Gadgets We Want This Year 2]]> http://www.switched.com/2009/01/08/five-gadgets-we-want-this-year-2/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/08/five-gadgets-we-want-this-year-2/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/08/five-gadgets-we-want-this-year-2/#comments

Power-Saving TVs

Most companies are talking eco-friendly this CES but two announcements stuck out in the power-saving category. Sony and Toshiba are introducing LCD TVs that sense the light level in a room and adjust the backlight on their screens, lowering power output to make the screen image more appealing and save energy. Toshiba's new Regza LCD TVs will have AutoView, which automatically sets most of the TV picture parameters based on light levels. Several of Sony's new Bravia LCD HDTVs coming out this summer have LightSensor technology and dynamic backlight control that similarly sense light amounts and automatically adjust the brightness level. The real wow factor is in Sony's "presence sensor," which monitors if a person is in the room watching TV. If the room is empty, the Sony set turns itself off to save power. Even in standby mode it's impressive, drawing zero watts of power.

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Five Gadgets We Want This Year 2 originally appeared on Switched on Thu, 08 Jan 2009 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> ces 2009ces-2009-featuresces-2009-topCes2009 switchedtips@gmail.com (Will Safer) Thu, 08 Jan 2009 17:40:00 EST Switched <![CDATA[Five Gadgets We Want This Year]]> http://www.switched.com/2009/01/08/five-gadgets-we-want-this-year/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/08/five-gadgets-we-want-this-year/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/08/five-gadgets-we-want-this-year/#comments
Right now in Las Vegas, we're checking out thousands of new gadgets and gizmos at this year's CES. We'll be sifting through best and worst in tech, so check back for continued coverage. So far, though, we've been impressed by what we've seen. We'll get to the rest later, but in the meantime you can check out the five gadgets are already topping our wish lists for 2009.

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Five Gadgets We Want This Year originally appeared on Switched on Thu, 08 Jan 2009 16:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> ces-2009-top switchedtips@gmail.com (Will Safer) Thu, 08 Jan 2009 16:31:00 EST Switched <![CDATA[Cool Gadgets You'll See in 2009, (Part 1) 8]]> http://www.switched.com/2009/01/07/cool-gadgets-youll-see-in-2009-part-1-8/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/07/cool-gadgets-youll-see-in-2009-part-1-8/ http://www.switched.com/2009/01/07/cool-gadgets-youll-see-in-2009-part-1-8/#comments


Oregon Scientific Solar Powered Weather Station

We liked the looks and functionality of this solar-powered weather forecast station from Oregon Scientific. The RMR-500ES runs off that big yellow battery in the sky and gathers the day's weather data off the AM radio band. It'll give you the basics so you can plan your wardrobe for the day: high and low temps, humidity level, rain or shine, plus the time and date.

The suggested retail price will be about $100 when this product hits store shelves in April.

Because it gets its information off the AM radio band, the RMR-500ES gets coverage in about 99 percent of the United States, including Alaska and Hawaii - although we generally know the temperatures for those two states will be cold and hot, in that order.

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Cool Gadgets You'll See in 2009, (Part 1) 8 originally appeared on Switched on Wed, 07 Jan 2009 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> switchedtips@gmail.com (Will Safer) Wed, 07 Jan 2009 00:01:00 EST Switched <![CDATA[Man Uses YouTube to Search for Package Bandit]]> http://www.switched.com/2008/12/30/man-uses-youtube-to-search-for-package-bandit/ http://www.switched.com/2008/12/30/man-uses-youtube-to-search-for-package-bandit/ http://www.switched.com/2008/12/30/man-uses-youtube-to-search-for-package-bandit/#comments
A San Jose, California man who keeps having his mail and packages swiped from his doorstep has resorted to some remote sleuthing technology to help him solve the mystery of his disappearing deliveries.

Romeo Roque, who lives in the Northwood neighborhood in the middle of Silicon Valley, set up a video camera to capture the postal bandit in the act - and the resulting clip seems to do just that. Now, it's up to the San Jose police - and you - to help identify the culprit.

Roque posted the video clip to YouTube, showing a strawberry-blonde-haired woman rifling through a bait package he left on his doorstep. The police say this takes away the element of surprise they may have in pursuing the thief since she herself may see the clip and either cease her evil ways or at least move on to a less technically inclined homeowner. However, Roque is hoping that with all the eyeballs trained on YouTube, someone out there will recognize her and report her to the local precinct.

Continue reading Man Uses YouTube to Search for Package Bandit

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Man Uses YouTube to Search for Package Bandit originally appeared on Switched on Tue, 30 Dec 2008 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> policethiefvideo cameraVideoCamera switchedtips@gmail.com (Will Safer) Tue, 30 Dec 2008 13:01:00 EST Switched <![CDATA[America Still Hosts the Most Computer Viruses, Study Finds]]> http://www.switched.com/2008/12/27/america-still-hosts-the-most-computer-viruses-study-finds/ http://www.switched.com/2008/12/27/america-still-hosts-the-most-computer-viruses-study-finds/ http://www.switched.com/2008/12/27/america-still-hosts-the-most-computer-viruses-study-finds/#comments


A new report released by anti-virus and security firm Sophos put 2008's online threats into perspective and give a hint of what 2009 may bring for all of us connected folks out there.

Here are some of the reports biggest finds: The United States is still the source of most malware; current events like the election or financial crisis are the topics of most scam e-mail messages; and Apple Macintosh users' overconfidence in their computers' ability to ward off viruses could cost them in the long run.

According to Sophos the "U.S. hosts 37 percent of all malware sites followed by China (27.7 percent) and Russia (9.1 percent)." And the United States' share is increasing, despite some high-profile shut downs of major malware purveyors, going up 37 percent in 2008. By contrast, though, what are the benefits of living in a totalitarian society like China? China's share of malware dropped by nearly 50 percent during that time. (Proving once again that freedom isn't free.)

Plenty of spam e-mail took advantage of interest in the political process and the financial mess we're in. Promises of secrets about the presidential candidates or ways to make and save money led the way, and more than a few people clicked links they shouldn't have and provided personal information to the ne'er-do-wells out there in cyberspace.

The curious point among all these expected security highlights? That Apple Macintosh users, who so far haven't had to suffer much from computer viruses, may see the growing popularity of their computer platform lead to a growing interest by those who write computer viruses. And since the Mac users are so confident in their platform's insulation from attack, they may in fact be more likely to leave their computers open to risk. But on that risk front only time will tell. [Source: ARS Technica.]

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America Still Hosts the Most Computer Viruses, Study Finds originally appeared on Switched on Sat, 27 Dec 2008 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> Apple MacintoshAppleMacintoshmalwarereportsresearchsecurityspamspywarestudiesvirus switchedtips@gmail.com (Will Safer) Sat, 27 Dec 2008 11:30:00 EST Switched <![CDATA[The End Of The End Of An Era? No More VHS Distribution.]]> http://www.switched.com/2008/12/23/the-end-of-the-end-of-an-era-no-more-vhs-distribution/ http://www.switched.com/2008/12/23/the-end-of-the-end-of-an-era-no-more-vhs-distribution/ http://www.switched.com/2008/12/23/the-end-of-the-end-of-an-era-no-more-vhs-distribution/#comments vhs tapes end

A trivia point for you: What was the last big studio movie to be released on VHS tape? The answer is 'A History of Violence,' released in 2006.

People in the consumer electronics industry have been announcing the end of the VHS era for years now - but this time they really, really mean it. Ever since the introduction of the DVD back in the late '90s, the VHS tape has been only the second-best solution to watching movies at home. The VCR is something only your parents or grandparents have attached to their second TV down in the basement or back guest room with a stack of old tapes sitting nearby, maybe your old copy of Eddie Murphy's 'Coming to America' or your mom's complete collection of 1981's 'Brideshead Revisited.' (Well, some mothers we know.)

Camcorders stopped using VHS tapes once other, smaller format tapes came out, like Super 8 or MiniDV so that source for a tape collection has also dried up. (And now video cameras that take recordable discs, memory cards or have hard drives are the common choice.)

During the last two years, movies on VHS tape have pretty much been available only in dollar stores, as the big box retailers have converted their floor space to carry DVDs and movies on Blu-ray Disc.

While watching a movie on disc is a much better experience than watching on VHS (no more "be kind, rewind" signs at the rental store is certainly a good thing), people can't deny the effect this technology had on American movie-watching patterns.

"I think in some ways it even pulled families together, if that doesn't sound too corny, because renting movies became such a part of the weekend," Jim Henderson tells the Los Angeles Times. He's one of the owners of a Hollywood store that sells pop culture in just about every format imaginable, including VHS. But even he no longer buys new VHS tapes. His inventory comes in by way of customers who want to want to buy and trade hard-to-find items.

JVC, the first company to make VHS players for consumers, announced before Halloween that it would no longer make stand-alone players - although it will continue to make DVD-VHS combo units for the time being.

And one of the major distributors of those cheap VHS movies you see in the dollar stores has announced he's bought his last new VHS tape. Ryan J. Kugler, who runs a family business that specializes in the cheap tapes says he was the last one buying VHS and the last one selling it. "And I'm done," he says. "Anything left in warehouse we'll just give away or throw away." [From Los Angeles Times, via Engadget]

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The End Of The End Of An Era? No More VHS Distribution. originally appeared on Switched on Tue, 23 Dec 2008 09:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> DVDJVCtopVHS tapeVhsTape switchedtips@gmail.com (Will Safer) Tue, 23 Dec 2008 09:32:00 EST Switched <![CDATA[Best HDTVs Under $1000 2]]> http://www.switched.com/2008/12/11/best-hdtvs-under-1000-2/ http://www.switched.com/2008/12/11/best-hdtvs-under-1000-2/ http://www.switched.com/2008/12/11/best-hdtvs-under-1000-2/#comments


Sylvania LC195SL9
19-inch LCD TV 720p
$299.99 at Best Buy

WHAT'S A DEAL: This one has a built-in DTV antenna, which means you don't even need a cable or satellite box to get HDTV, as it'll pick up free over-the-air HD broadcasts. Since it's so small, even standard definition TV looks good on this small baby. Also, it works as a PC monitor, thanks to a PC input.

WHAT'S THE CATCH: At 19-inches, you won't really notice any of the benefits of HDTV, which probably won't matter that much anyway since it only has two high-def ready HDMI inputs.

BOTTOM LINE: This is our 19-inch budget TV of choice - perfect for the kitchen, the bedroom, small apartments, and the study (as a dual-purpose computer monitor and television).

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Best HDTVs Under $1000 2 originally appeared on Switched on Thu, 11 Dec 2008 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> hgg-1000hgg-mediahound switchedtips@gmail.com (Will Safer) Thu, 11 Dec 2008 00:01:00 EST Switched <![CDATA[Best HDTVs Under $1000 3]]> http://www.switched.com/2008/12/11/best-hdtvs-under-1000-3/ http://www.switched.com/2008/12/11/best-hdtvs-under-1000-3/ http://www.switched.com/2008/12/11/best-hdtvs-under-1000-3/#comments


Dynex DX-LCD32-09
32-inch LCD 720p
$429.99 from Best Buy

WHAT'S A DEAL: This 32-incher from Best Buy's other house brand has some basic good features like volume leveling (so you're not hit with loud fluctuations while watching a show) and a PC input so you can use it as a computer screen.

WHAT'S THE CATCH: It's only 720p resolution and only has two HDMI inputs.

BOTTOM LINE: Dynex is Best Buy's house brand, so getting this TV is a bit like buying America's Choice brand at the supermarket. Are you into that or not? We say it's worth a shot, especially since you're getting something big enough for a rec-room or medium-sized living room for around $400.

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]]> hgg-1000hgg-mediahound switchedtips@gmail.com (Will Safer) Thu, 11 Dec 2008 00:01:00 EST Switched <![CDATA[Best HDTVs Under $1000 5]]> http://www.switched.com/2008/12/11/best-hdtvs-under-1000-5/ http://www.switched.com/2008/12/11/best-hdtvs-under-1000-5/ http://www.switched.com/2008/12/11/best-hdtvs-under-1000-5/#comments


Westinghouse W2613
26-inch LCD 720p
$449.99 from Best Buy

WHAT'S A DEAL: Sexy styling, day and night settings depending on room light, energy efficient. Can be used as a computer monitor.

WHAT'S THE CATCH: Only one HDMI input; only 720p resolution; regular TV only looks so-so.

BOTTOM LINE: This 26-incher does just enough that's right to make it a decent buy for $449. It's ideal as a multi-purpose computer monitor for the study, or an extra TV in the kitchen or bedroom.

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Best HDTVs Under $1000 5 originally appeared on Switched on Thu, 11 Dec 2008 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> hgg-1000hgg-mediahound switchedtips@gmail.com (Will Safer) Thu, 11 Dec 2008 00:01:00 EST Switched <![CDATA[Best HDTVs Under $1000 6]]> http://www.switched.com/2008/12/11/best-hdtvs-under-1000-6/ http://www.switched.com/2008/12/11/best-hdtvs-under-1000-6/ http://www.switched.com/2008/12/11/best-hdtvs-under-1000-6/#comments


Philips 42PFL3603D
42-inch LCD 1080p
$748 at Target

WHAT'S A DEAL: Top-of-the-line 1080p resolution; sexy modern design with rounded edges; accurate color.

WHAT'S THE CATCH: The sound is lackluster, but our main beef is that all of the inputs are on the back of the unit, which means it'll be tough to hang this unit on the wall unless you feel comfortable taking it down every time you want to adjust your component configuration.

BOTTOM LINE: This TV has topnotch visuals for less than $800 and will appeal to anyone who is concerned with home aesthetics. Also, we'd only recommend it to folks with decent home theater systems, since the speakers are crap.

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]]> hgg-1000hgg-mediahound switchedtips@gmail.com (Will Safer) Thu, 11 Dec 2008 00:01:00 EST Switched <![CDATA[Best HDTVs Under $1000 7]]> http://www.switched.com/2008/12/11/best-hdtvs-under-1000-7/ http://www.switched.com/2008/12/11/best-hdtvs-under-1000-7/ http://www.switched.com/2008/12/11/best-hdtvs-under-1000-7/#comments


LG 42LG30
42-inch LCD 720p
$799.99 at BestBuy

WHAT'S A DEAL: The sound is probably the best we've heard on all the sub-$1,000 TVs we considered. LG has done a nice job of building speakers into this thing, and it has developed something called Clear Voice, which makes it a lot easier to hear dialogue, even with lots of background noise or music in the movie you're watching.

WHAT'S THE CATCH: It's only 720p resolution - good enough for broadcast HDTV, but not quite Blu-ray resolution.

BOTTOM LINE: Perfect for anyone who doesn't have (and doesn't want) a home theater system, since the speakers are better than those on most TVs we've tried. This is the kind of TV that would work nicely in, say, the bedroom, where most folks don't have elaborate surround sound systems (at least not yet).

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Best HDTVs Under $1000 7 originally appeared on Switched on Thu, 11 Dec 2008 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> hgg-1000hgg-mediahound switchedtips@gmail.com (Will Safer) Thu, 11 Dec 2008 00:01:00 EST Switched