There’s been quite a bit going on in the tech world lately. Rather than dedicate a post to each separate item, I figured it was best served for everyone’s time to give you a quick rundown on all the news!
Google Voice for the Masses!
In case you missed the buzz, Google just recently announced open registration for Google Voice. Why is this awesome? Google Voice was previously only open for registration to students and members of the armed forces (not counting the few of us that got it by invitation). As you are probably aware by my previous postings, I’m definitely a fan. Google Voice provides a great deal of flexibility, allowing you to have a single phone number dial all your phones at once. In my case, I have my Google number ring both my cell phones, and then my Office phone during the day and home phone during the evening/weekends. You may also get a kick out of the voicemail transcriptions, which allow you to get an idea of who called you and why as soon as they leave a message. I also compiled some links to additional tip/how-to articles awhile back. While there have been some privacy concerns raised, it can still be a valuable tool on a day-t0-day basis.
New XBOX 360 and Kinect!
Microsoft’s Xbox hasn’t had a major refresh in years! Well, a few weeks ago Microsoft announced a new Xbox 360 that sports a few worthwhile improvements over the previous version. My two favorite updates:
- Built-in Wi-Fi
- Updated and smaller design
If you’re like me (a leisure gamer) and have an XBOX 360 which is only a few years old, you may want to pass on this one. After all, I can think of a few other things that would be a fun way to blow $300! However, if you’re a hardcore avid gamer and/or hate the way the old white XBOX 360 sticks out like a sore thumb in your media rack, this is an upgrade for you!
Kinect:
Don’t forget that I also mentioned “Kinect.” What is it you ask? Think of it as Microsoft’s answer to the interactive playability on the Wii. Basically, Kinect is a sensor bar with built-in cameras to track your body movements. The Kinect sensor then translates those movements into movements within the game. In a way, I think this one-ups the current setup of the Wii, as your entire body can get in on the action (not just your arms). Surprisingly, Amazon has a pretty great writeup and is taking pre-orders for Kinect! It will work on all XBOX 360’s, so all you need to do is order the Kinect controller and you’re ready to play!
Smartphones, Smartphones Everywhere!!
If you keep up with my posts, you’re probably familiar with the fact I’m a HUGE smartphone addict. What a week it has been with regards to smartphones! There’s so many new (and coming soon) options to choose from:
- Apple iPhone 4 (AT&T) – AT&T’s flagship phone gets updated
- HTC Aria (AT&T) – a decent Android phone for AT&T
- HTC EVO 4G (Sprint) – Sprint’s newest Android phone with 4G data speeds
- HTC Incredible (VZW) – Verizon’s 2nd generation Android Superstar
- Motorola Droid X (VZW) – Verizon’s competitor to the EVO 4G
- Samsung Galaxy S (Multi-Carriers) – Samsung’s (coming soon) competitors to the EVO, DROID, and iPhone
I’m trying to talk my fiancé into getting us new cell phones. Personally, we both are getting annoyed by our blackberries (they are 2 years old and slow). I’m thinking an EVO 4G for me, and a Samsung Galaxy S for her (she requires a keyboard). What about you? Have you made the jump to any of these new smartphone options?
E-Reader Price Wars!
So the E-reader wars have started heating up! Here’s a quick rundown:
- Apple releases the iPad with much fanfare and success. Is it a “Netbook killer?” I guess we’ll find out in the near future…
- Barnes & Noble drops the price of the Nook to $199. They also release a “Wifi-only” Nook option for $149.
- Amazon drops the price of the Kindle 2 to $189, and the larger Kindle DX (Global Wireless) to $379.
- Sony drops the price on their e-readers (although for the price, lack of features found in Nook and Kindle, and popularity/volume of titles available in the B&N or Amazon bookstores, I have no idea why you’d buy one).
- Borders announces an e-book store and a line of 3rd-party e-readers which are compatible.
If you didn’t get a chance to read my previous post about the Apple iPad and Kindle/Nook Price Drops, I’ll sum it up for you. Basically, the iPad is overpriced, and does just about the same stuff as the devices you probably already own. Personally, I prefer the Nook and Kindle. Having recently purchased a Kindle (the price drop finally lured me in) and played around with it, it’s hard to deny the ease-of-use and convenience of always-availble 3G. You can browse and buy books to your heart’s content. Lets not forget that Amazon was just granted a patent for e-reader design which may shake things up.
More to come…
You’ll notice I conveniently left out a bunch of the new developments in the realm of media centers & television. I’m currently writing up an article about my quest for cheaper television/movie entertainment which will cover quite a bit of that. Stay tuned…
Contact Me if you have additional questions, or want to know more about any of today’s topics!
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