Samsung swept into CES this year like an alien invasion. Tucked away beneath its awards, massive booth presence, and disrupter blast of products is this sexy Bluetooth earpiece. The Capella (shown tucked inside the receiver) is meant to be worn as a fashion accessory. Hey, that's what they say. And at the risk of being juiced by a Martian, well, we're not going to argue.Filed under: Portable Audio, Wearables, WirelessSamsung's Capella Bluetooth earpiece invades CES originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 09 Jan 2009 16:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

DisplayLink is most certainly swinging the big wood here at CES, with announcements spanning from Samsung monitors to Acer multimedia docks. Now, it's hooking up with HP for the first time ever in order to introduce the USB 2.0 Docking Station with DisplayLink technology. The universal dock enables laptops to pass through audio, LAN and peripheral connectivity, and of course, it enables the laptop to expand its display onto a USB-enabled monitor without the need for graphics cards and the like. We can't tell you when or where it'll land, but you can have a gander at the read link for other hardware details.Filed under: Peripherals, WirelessHP's USB 2.0 Docking Station adds in DisplayLink technology originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 09 Jan 2009 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

G2 Microsystems has just announced a rather sweet near-range technology that will enable products like headphones, speakers, etc. to connect directly to Intel My WiFi-enabled laptops sans fuss. The company's device is hailed as a "fully calibrated WiFi networking module" that can speak directly to an Intel My WiFi, Centrino 2-based computer. Ideally, users will eventually be able to quickly print and sync between digiframes and photo archives, and the ultra-low power draw should keep batteries happy. Now, the real question: anyone stepping up to spearhead adoption?Filed under: CES, Peripherals, WirelessG2 Microsystems demoes Intel My WiFi Personal Area Network originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 09 Jan 2009 09:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Victorinox -- makers of the original Swiss Army knife -- made its first trek to CES with this, its new Presentation Pro. Tucked away with insane precision are a removable 32GB USB drive with fingerprint authentication, laser pointer, and Bluetooth remote control for your Windows-only PC or laptop presentations. Yep, key ring and scissors too. It even features a blade to fight off your enemies and a file to scrape away any fingerprints after the deed is done. We went hands on with the device and were truly impressed with the build quality. Here's the rub: it'll cost you $330 when it ships in May. Did we say it had a laser?Gallery: Victorinox Presentation ProFiled under: Misc. Gadgets, WirelessVictorinox Presentation Pro floated by the Swiss army originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 09 Jan 2009 07:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Based on the fact that this kit contains connectors for stereo audio, VGA and Wireless USB, we're inclined to believe that this here product is actually a renamed version of the Wireless USB to VGA kit we caught wind of last year. Even if not, however, this will help you stream content at up to 720p over VGA for 30 feet sans wires, and it's fully compatible with Windows XP and Vista. The bad news? The price has increased by around $50 since last mention, with the latest report suggesting a $349.95 sticker and a March ship date.Filed under: CES, Peripherals, WirelessIOGEAR's Wireless USB Audio / Video Kit ships soon for $350 originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 09 Jan 2009 04:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

It doesn't exactly have a lot to show for itself just yet, but Top Global has just announced a reference design for what it claims is the world's first dual mode 3G USB modem and WiFi hotspot combo. Dubbed the 3GSpot, the device is software configurable to support all cellular standards, and the basic design is able to support multiple bands to ensure compatibility with carriers around the world, which Top Global says will let OEMs have one design/SKU that simply requires different firmwares for different markets. The device will apparently even boast on-board GPS "at no extra cost," not to mention all the usual security measures and, at just 2.5 x 4-inches, it'll be able to be integrated or simply offered as a standalone device. All that, of course, depends on some OEMs hopping on board, and Top Global unfortunately doesn't seem to be ready to announcing anything on that front just yet.Filed under: Peripherals, WirelessTop Global announces 3GSpot USB modem / WiFi hotspot originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 09 Jan 2009 00:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Here's a strange one. The image above was attached to an email sent to Engadget Chinese boasting about the immense interest in ASUS' booth at CES this year. However, the Eee D200 has never been announced and we're pretty sure that's not the booth open to the public here in Las Vegas. Regardless, we can see clearly from the spec card that the D200 is some kind of low-end Atom PC (and possible media server) with up to 2TB of RAID storage, 5-channel HD audio out, and slot loading DVD writer targeting the home network. The inclusion of an 802.11n access point just adds to the mystery. Oh, and that 3.5-inch LCD is touch-sensitive. Now spill it ASUS, what is this thing?Update: We just received further information from the D200 product manager. The NAS runs Linux but the on-board touchscreen was not quite ready for public demonstration. Sorry no prices ready for disclosure.Filed under: CES, Desktops, Media PCs, Wireless, StorageASUS' Eee D200 with touchscreen display sneaks out in Taiwan originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 08 Jan 2009 22:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

These new BUGModules from BUG Labs aren't much to look at, but just holding them in your hands really gets your gears going about what new kinds of custom gadgets you could come up with. The new modules are really ones that open up the possibilities and make us think, "what if I want to use more than four modules?" The usefulness of the wireless adapters like WiFi and 3G go without saying, but the possibilities of having a projector in your pocket with sound could really lead to something. And last but not least, who wouldn't want the Swiss Army Knife of input and output on their custom gadget? Gallery: BUGModules hands-onFiled under: CES, Peripherals, WirelessNew BUGModules hands-on originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 08 Jan 2009 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

We're continuing our onslaught of CES hands-ons with the WAVE-HOME from iriver. In a nutshell, it's a more feature-filled Ojo with much more than just video calling -- namely calendar, notes, plus it packs a WiFi phone in the back of the unit (pictured above). The video after the jump doesn't quite do justice to the smoothness of the interface, but your mileage may vary depending on the fatness of your fingers. iriver reps told us that they estimate the unit to be priced at less than $400 to make affordable enough for people to buy more than one. Feel free to peep our original post for all the juicy tech specs, and don't forget to point your friends in this direction if you don't wanna feel like a loser if you drop four bills. Gallery: Video: iriver WAVE-HOME hands-onContinue reading Video: iriver WAVE-HOME hands-onFiled under: Misc. Gadgets, WirelessVideo: iriver WAVE-HOME hands-on originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 08 Jan 2009 16:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Netgear didn't go for any fancy-schmancy new form factor with its 3G mobile broadband wireless router, instead opting for the standard shell we know and love. Nine different Sierra and Novatel 3G modems are currently supported, and just plugging one into the USB 2.0 slot will provide you web access via either ethernet LAN or 802.11g. Usual amenities like WEP / WPA encryption are here, and it includes both AC and 12V DC adapters. The router is due out this month for $130. Anyone up for a World of Warcraft campfire LAN party?Gallery: Netgear 3G mobile broadband wireless routerRead - List of supported 3G USB modemsFiled under: Wireless, NetworkingNetgear announces 3G mobile broadband wireless router for 802.11g's on the go originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 07 Jan 2009 17:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Looks like Amazon may soon be getting some competition for the hearts of the Kindle-loving literati over at the Algonquin. In a pre-CES interview with Reuters, Verizon's Tony Lewis -- the man in charge of their Open Development program -- doesn't see the current state of the economy as halting production of e-readers or other nonessential consumer electronics. "Competitors to the Kindle are out there and ready," the man said. "In 2009 I'd expect them to come to the market." To date, the company's certified 29 third party devices to run on the carrier, a new attitude that seems to have come about when they realized the bucketfuls of cash they could be raking in if they were a little more... well, open to these sorts of things. If you're a vendor, feel free to peep their booth this week at CES. We're sure you'll be more than welcome.[Via Moco News]Filed under: Cellphones, CES, Handhelds, WirelessVerizon to embrace Kindle rivals, third party devices originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 07 Jan 2009 11:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

If you thought Eye-Fi was a great invention already, then boy, do we have a treat for you. Here at CES, the outfit made famous for pumping out delightfully simple WiFi SD cards for wireless image uploading is taking the next logical step by embracing video. It's currently developing a system that will enable its WiFi SD cards to upload videos directly to YouTube, and if you reckoned the first iteration would be stuck at standard-def, you reckoned wrong. In fact, it's being designed from the ground-up to handle HD uploads from cameras like Nikon's D90, but there's no word yet on how soon the technology will be ready. The big question from us? Will this require an all new card, or can the video functionality be added to existing models? Check the full release after the break.Continue reading Eye-Fi taking the next logical step: WiFi video uploads to YouTubeFiled under: CES, Digital Cameras, Wireless, StorageEye-Fi taking the next logical step: WiFi video uploads to YouTube originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 07 Jan 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

We knew that Cisco would be invading the home audio space in '09, but we didn't know it'd be so quickly (and under the Linksys name). Here at CES, the outfit has unveiled the admittedly complex Wireless Home Audio system, which utilizes Ethernet / 802.11n / DLNA in order to stream audio over multiple zones throughout the home. The kit is actually comprised of some very specific components, so let's not waste any time, eh? There's the Conductor DMC350 Wireless-N Digital Music Center, Director DMC250 Wireless-N Music Player with Integrated Amplifier, Player DMP100 Wireless-N Music Extender, Stereo Speaker Kit DSPK50, DMWR1000 Wireless-N Touchscreen Remote, iPod docking station and the DMRIR500 IR Remote. For details on the specific kits, which should go on sale this quarter for $300 and way up, give the read link a peek.Gallery: Linksys by Cisco Wireless Home Audio system unveiledFiled under: CES, Home Entertainment, WirelessLinksys by Cisco Wireless Home Audio system unveiled originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 07 Jan 2009 02:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Considering that Eos Wireless is introducing its Converge wireless audio system at Macworld, it follows logic that the press release is geared towards Apple kit. So yeah, there's no question this stuff will stream jams from your iPod, iPhone, Apple TV or Mac to any room in the house, but you should also know that the system plays nice with the anti-Apple (but pro-USB / auxiliary port) crowd as well. It promises a wireless range of 150 feet, and it seems to be available in a variety of "Groups" depending on how complex or simplistic your home setup is. Look for the components to ship in March for as low as $89.95 per piece.Filed under: Home Entertainment, WirelessEos Wireless' Converge system streams audio all over your home originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 06 Jan 2009 14:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

VTech, the company you likely associate with old school telephones and educational toys, is breaking out of its shell in a big way. The outfit has just announced its first foray into the wide world of home audio with the IS9181 internet radio receiver. Said device packs 802.11b/g WiFi connectivity and can easily tap into over 11,000 free internet radio stations; additionally, it handles traditional MP3, WMA, AAC, WAV and RealMusic audio files stored on a WiFi-enabled computer (Macs included), and the built-in auxiliary jack enables it to play back jams from practically any other source, too. You'll find a pair of three-watt stereo speakers, a ten-watt subwoofer and a Class D amplifier pushing everything to 11, but you'll have to curb your enthusiasm until it launches this Spring at $199.95.Continue reading VTech plunges into home audio market with IS9181 WiFi radioFiled under: CES, Home Entertainment, WirelessVTech plunges into home audio market with IS9181 WiFi radio originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 06 Jan 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

It's debatable whether wireless USB is on its way out or on its way in (for real this time), but regardless of which way it's swaying, Wisair's got some availability you should know about. The outfit's Wireless USB Display Adapter Set, which is a screen-centric variant of the kit introduced back in November, will be available this quarter in the US and Europe. Based on Wisair's WSR601 Wireless USB single chip solution, the device offers up VGA and HDMI connectivity options, supports resolutions up to 1,400 x 1,050 and is USB-IF certified. If you're struggling to understand the purpose here, the two-piece bundle enables USB-equipped PCs to stream content to TVs, monitors and projectors sans cabling, and it'll do so for just $129. Now, if only it were 1080p compatible...Filed under: Peripherals, WirelessWisair's Wireless USB Display Adapter Set coming soon for $129 originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 05 Jan 2009 18:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Jaybird's just unleashed their products for 2009, with updates for their athlete-targeted A2DP Bluetooth Stereo Claws. The new ones (which look exactly the same as their previous models) feature apt-X audio compression, giving these puppies a high sound quality the company says will "rivaling wired" ones, plus new tips for sound isolation and a modified design to fit a wider range of ears. The company's also rolling out new metal-cased Tiger Eyes earbuds and over ear Acoustic Dens. We don't have any word on pricing for this stuff, but we'll get an up-close gander at them at CES and they should be available in April... when our Go-Go's-infused work outs should get a little more high def. Check out the other two products after the break.Update: Just got word that the company will release all three of the above with tweaked product names, and we also got the pricing info: Freedom Wireless Headphones will run you $129.99, the Tiger Eyes Earbuds will be $99.99, and the Endorphin Earphones will also be $99.99 Continue reading Jaybird releases 2009 Bluetooth Stereo Claws, earbuds, and moreFiled under: Portable Audio, WirelessJaybird releases 2009 Bluetooth Stereo Claws, earbuds, and more originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 31 Dec 2008 14:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

After slowly sneaking its branding onto its Linksys devices, and welcoming us to the non-defined "Human Network" with ubiquitous GE-style feel good advertising (above), Cisco is finally ready to make a real play for our hearts and pocketbooks with a new wireless audio streamer -- among other consumer-friendly products -- to be unveiled at CES next week. The products so far are vaguely defined, but it seems like a Sonos-type device in the cards, with a video streamer for use with a TV (and that handy Digital Entertainment Content Ecosystem) and eventually a TV-based videoconferencing device both in development. The latter would be a full-HD setup, in the vein of the company's $40k+ Telepresence rooms currently available to corporations and inexplicably rich comic book heroes, but dramatically cheaper of course. Unfortunately, that won't be available for a year or two, and in the meantime we'll have yet another vaguely useful media streamer on our hands -- we can't wait!Filed under: Home Entertainment, WirelessCisco to invade homes next year with new wireless music streamer originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 29 Dec 2008 18:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Although we've seen some interesting demos, wireless power systems have mostly been a novelty -- apart from a couple gaming accessories, the most notable thing a wireless company has done so far is declare bankruptcy. That's hopefully about to change, however: a new group called the Wireless Power Consortium plans to introduce a series of charging standards aimed at making sure all this magical tech plays nice with each other. The eight-company group includes Logitech, Philips, Sanyo (and now Panasonic, we'd suppose), TI, National Semiconductor, ConvenientPower, and Fulton Innovation -- which demoed that wireless hamburger for us, you'll recall. The group plans to first release a five-watt standard targeted at mobile phones, after which it'll take aim at laptops and other more power-hungry devices. Based on the flood of wireless-related PR we've been getting as CES gets closer, we're expecting some big things to happen in this space -- it sounds like Energizer is also going to get involved, which could be interesting. We'll see how it plays out -- hopefully this is the year we finally cut that power cord.Read - PC World articleRead - WIreless Power Consortium websiteFiled under: Peripherals, WirelessWireless Power Consortium to create universal wireless charging standard, insist that it's like magic originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 19 Dec 2008 13:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Remember that Type N700 train that became Japan's fastest in mid-2007? Yeah, well it's about to get a lot more fun to ride. Starting next year, passengers on the ultra-quick bullet trains will be able to hit up their favorite blogs and banter about aimlessly via email / IM at 270 kilometers per hour (that's 167 miles per hour for you Yanks). The service will reportedly be an extension of NTT Communications' HotSpot service, and we're told that download speeds should reach around 2Mbps. As for cost, the fees will be at the usual HotSpot rate, which runs from ¥500 ($5.73) per day to ¥1,680 ($19.25) per month, or in other words, rates you'll totally pay to stay connected on the brisk runs from Osaka to Tokyo.Filed under: Transportation, WirelessNTT Communications bringing WiFi to Japanese bullet trains in 2009 originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 19 Dec 2008 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Sierra Wireless has just announced two new ExpressCard modems for HSUPA wireless users. Sporting download speeds up tp 7.2Mbps and upload speeds up to 5.76Mbps, the AirCard 501 supports 850 / 1900 / 2100 MHz bands, while the AirCard 502 covers 900 / 1900 / 2100 MHz. Both are backward compatible with UMTS, EDGE and GSM networks world 'round, and they're being touted as "durable," meaning there are no little antennas or plastic pieces to break on you. That last part should be good news to all of you post-apocalyptic Road Warriors out there (or not -- they're still just regular ExpressCards, as far as we can tell). The AirCard 501 is slated for release later this month, while those of you interested in the AirCard 502 will have to wait until the first part of 2009. [Via Slash Phone]Filed under: Laptops, WirelessSierra Wireless intros 'ruggedified' AirCard 501 and 502 modems originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 17 Dec 2008 13:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Yup, it's true, the dual-mode CDMA / WiMAX modem is real and will be sold by Clearwire Sprint starting December 21st. The $150 device (after $50 rebate and two-year Sprint contract) is a first to function on both Sprint's EV-DO network and Clearwire's nascent mobile WiMAX service currently supporting Baltimore's collection of kitschy beauty salons. So yeah, the modem is of limited interest until Clearwire can build-out its network in 2009, starting with Portland in early January.Filed under: WirelessClearwire's $150 dual-mode WiMAX / Sprint CDMA modem launches Sunday originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 17 Dec 2008 01:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

We already knew that Delta was pushing its in-flight WiFi plans ahead, and starting tomorrow, a half dozen MD-88 shuttle flights will be live with internet from 35,000 feet. As with Virgin America, Delta Air Lines will be relying on Aircell's Gogo technology, though it will go down as the first US carrier to initiate a "fleet-wide rollout." Eventually, over 300 domestic mainline aircraft will enable guests to surf the intarwebz from way up high, and you'll know if the one you're boarding is lit if you see one of the above pictured "Wi-Fi Onboard" logos on the boarding door. The launch flights -- which will run from December 16th through the 31st -- will provide gratis access to the web, while standard pricing of $9.95 on flights of three hours or less and $12.95 on flights of more than three hours will presumably kick in on January 1, 2009. Happy trails, and don't forget to give us a visit while you're up there.[Via Switched]Filed under: Wireless, NetworkingGogo in-flight WiFi taking off in six Delta flights tomorrow originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 15 Dec 2008 12:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Man, we're clearly in the wrong line of work. It seems that being in the FCC means that you can basically ignore everything else going on so long as you squint really hard and pretend to make progress on an imminent event that's just over two months ago. Sure, we're just bitter, but we're struggling to understand why an agency this large can't work towards auctioning a slice of soon-to-be-freed airwaves for widespread internet use while educating consumers on the digital TV transition that's coming in February. Caving to requests from Democratic lawmakers, the FCC has canceled a December 18th meeting that would've been used to discuss the next step in making the most of white spaces, but unless we see these very suits walking the streets with signs saying "THE END IS NEAR! FEBRUARY 17TH, 2009!," we're going to be rather peeved.[Via phonescoop]Filed under: WirelessFCC cancels white space meeting to focus on digital TV transition originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 15 Dec 2008 00:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Each week Ross Rubin contributes Switched On, a column about consumer technology. In a commercial featuring 30 Rock actress and producer Tina Fey and director Martin Scorsese, the former Saturday Night Live head writer uses her credit card to gain entrance to an airline lounge. The notion of a faceless slice serving as an access pass would also apply to Novatel Wireless's MiFi, the simply named 3G personal hotspot that will support up to five users simultaneously connecting to a 3G network when it is offered through operators next year.MiFi is not the first product to enable a small group to bridge WiFi products to the wireless WAN. One early entrant, Junxion, was acquired by Novatel Wireless competitor Sierra Wireless. And Cradlepoint has created a battery-powered device sold at Best Buy that, like the Junxion device, relies on a laptop card to create its WAN connection. That's not true, though, of the MiFi, which integrates an HSPA or EVDO radio along with the battery that can provide over four hours of Internet access to devices such as a PC, iPod touch, Zune, Nintendo DS or Sony PSP. In fact, without apologies to Right Said Fred, the MiFi may be "too sexy for my LAN" -- particularly for a product that can work silently in a backpack as it serves its nodes. A thicker frame could provide all-day access, but perhaps such lengthy sessions will generally take place where there is access to an outlet; the device continues to perform normally if it is drawing juice from a PC's USB port. But the MiFi is not simply a dumb dispenser of digits.Continue reading Switched On: MiFi pushes 3G past the router limitsFiled under: WirelessSwitched On: MiFi pushes 3G past the router limits originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 12 Dec 2008 20:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

After failing to reach terms with Intel to put Nokia's HSDPA data chip inside Santa Rosa laptops back in early 2007, Nokia is going it alone. Tapio Markki, Nokia's vice president for hardware platform components, told Reuters that Nokia will ship its first HSPA "Internet stick" (we presume that means USB and PC Card formats) in early 2009. Nokia would not provide price, only that its modems would be primarily sold through operators or bundled with services. More data is more better as they say in Espoo. No, really.Update: It looks like the stick in question is the CS-10 announced last week at Nokia World which you can check out on the Nokia site. Filed under: WirelessNokia to launch HSPA modems in early 2009 -- take that Intel originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 12 Dec 2008 08:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Still getting by with PCMCIA, are you? Looking to get into the potentially crumbling world of Wireless USB? Well then, step right up! Ratoc is pumping out its very first WUSB kit with the REX-WUSB1, which includes a rather bulky PC Card (with ultra-wideband antenna) and a four-port WUSB hub. Users with Windows XP / Vista-based machines simply plug in the card, load up the drivers and link their favorite USB peripherals to the hub; from there, you can kick back and enjoy the spoils of wireless printing, wireless cooling and wireless warming -- two of which really aren't all they're cracked up to be. Anywho, the bundle is expected to go on sale in the Land of the Rising Sun later this month for ¥31,500 ($340).Filed under: Wireless, NetworkingRatoc introduces Wireless USB kit for your PCMCIA-equipped laptop originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 11 Dec 2008 04:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Here's something that doesn't happen everyday with legacy airlines -- an announcement that something is actually ahead of schedule. After hearing that Delta would equip its entire US fleet with Aircell's Gogo in-flight WiFi in 2009, along comes a release from Aircell that says otherwise. In fact, it proclaims that "Delta Air Lines is expected to launch service before the end of 2008." Furthermore, the company has confessed that "most major US carriers are in advanced discussions with or are already contractually committed to Aircell," which certainly bodes well for avid travelers who take issue with long periods of disconnection. Aircell is hoping to have its in-flight internet tech installed in 2,000 commercial aircraft by the end of 2009 -- talk about making the friendly skies "friendly" again.[Image courtesy of Gadling]Filed under: Transportation, WirelessDelta pushes in-flight WiFi plans ahead, Gogo to hit 2,000 planes in 2009 originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 10 Dec 2008 21:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

If you're tired of being scammed at ATMs by kind, gentle-hearted con artists (and then forgetting it ever happened), you'll be stoked to know that Japan is looking out for you. Chiba Bank has installed phone signal jammers at four unnamed ATMs at bank branches in the Tokyo region, and while it has gone down as the first institution to go to such lengths, we highly doubt it'll be the last. It's not entirely clear what exactly the criminals were able to convince people to do via mobile, but it's probably something like "psst... get me out some cheddar and meet around back." Not that we have any experience in the field or anything...[Via textually]Filed under: Cellphones, WirelessJapan installs cellphone jammers near ATMs to prevent fraud originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 10 Dec 2008 19:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

After winning purchasing spectrum in the 700MHz FCC auction, we were all a little disappointed to hear that we'd have to wait until the year 2010 for high-speed LTE networks to launch (widescale deployments coming later) on both Verizon and AT&T. In a surprise, seemingly off-the-cuff statement made Tuesday at Cisco's C-Scape conference, Verizon's unfortunately named executive VP and CTO, Dick Lynch, said, "We expect that LTE will actually be in service somewhere here in the U.S. probably this time next year." Lynch also said that Verizon plans to coordinate the rollout of femtocell base stations (likely with WiFi) to extend the signal indoors -- something that shouldn't be too difficult since LTE will be riding the old home-penetrating 700MHz analog TV signal. With LG demonstrating 60Mbps download speeds on the world's first LTE chips for cellphones and data cards yesterday, consider us packed and ready to move to the first city VZW lights up. [Via PhoneScoop]Filed under: WirelessDick Lynch: Verizon's LTE rollout to launch next year, not 2010 originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 10 Dec 2008 07:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Say you're James Bond (or similar), and for once, you're actually not the one behind the wheel. While you're being chauffeured around the elegant Italian countryside at breakneck speeds, you'll probably want a little live TV entertainment from the back seat. Enter Microtune's MicroTuner, a "first-of-its-kind tuner chip for high-speed in-car TV." Put simply, the MT2067 is built to provide "superior, stable TV reception for passengers in vehicles traveling at top speeds along the autobahn or highway," and supposedly, it can retain a clear signal whilst motoring at 125 miles-per-hour. Better still, it's supports worldwide analog / digital terrestrial standards including NTSC, PAL, SECAM, DVB-T, DVB-H, ISDB-T, DTMB, ATSC and ATSC-M/H. $20 says this comes integrated into next year's TV-infused line of Bentley motorcars.Filed under: Portable Video, WirelessMicrotune's in-car TV tuner snags 'Days of our Lives' at 125mph originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 09 Dec 2008 11:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Our EV-DO ExpressCards are looking a whole lot frumpier (and less functional) today now that Novatel's shown off this hot little metallic number, the "MiFi" mobile 3G hotspot for getting high-speed data to you and your closest friends on the go. Routing your choice of EV-DO Rev. A or HSPA over WiFi, the slab is about as wide and long as a credit card -- goodness -- and features an internal battery that'll allegedly be good for four hours of use or forty hours of standby on one charge. The MiFi is scheduled to blast off in the first half of 2009 for roughly $200 through carriers and retail channels, which means we can finally look forward to ditching our N78 with Joikuspot and a couple hundred dollars worth of spare batteries.Filed under: WirelessNovatel MiFi proves "3G hotspot" and "sexy" can coexist originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 09 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Phones have lagged -- understandably, we suppose -- behind desktops and laptops in bringing 802.11n to market, but it was bound to happen eventually; to that end, Broadcom has announced its BCM4329, one of the first mobile 802.11n solutions on the block. On top of delivering up to 50Mbps of real-world WiFi throughput on both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, the darned thing throws in Bluetooth, an FM receiver, and an FM transmitter, too -- in other words, everything but the kitchen sink, where the "kitchen sink" is the cellular radio itself. Sadly, the 4329 sticks with single-stream transmission to conserve battery life -- no MIMO here, folks -- but considering the 802.11g alternative, we'll take what we can get. The chip's already being sampled (and hopefully being integrated into future products) by Broadcom's customers with mass production following on sometime in 2009.Filed under: Cellphones, WirelessNew Broadcom chip for phones does 802.11n, lots of other stuff originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 09 Dec 2008 00:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

After putting those nasty Bluetooth 2.2 rumors to bed, the Bluetooth Special Interest Group has directly informed Wireless Week that it will indeed look to come out with a "high-speed specification next summer." Of course, we've been waiting on such a thing for, like, ever now, but Executive Director Mike Foley has asserted that when the spec arrives in summer 2009 it will likely be sitting at 3.0. What's 3.0 promising? Faster overall transmission speeds and quicker connections, namely. So, what's the over / under on the Bluetooth SIG actually delivering?[Via phonescoop]Filed under: WirelessBluetooth SIG promises high-speed specification next summer, likely BT 3.0 originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 08 Dec 2008 21:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

We knew good and well HP's Mini 1000 netbook had a thing for integrated 3G, but we never knew it played both sides of the proverbial field. After noticing not two, but three WWAN options on the CTO pages at HP, jkOnTheRun wrote in to figure out what was going on. In sum, those uncomfortable with choosing a dedicated AT&T or Verizon WWAN module can opt for an alternative that handles both networks -- and at no extra cost. HP has confirmed that the $199 option is indeed the two-faced Qualcomm Gobi, which theoretically allows you to use mobile broadband services from AT&T and Verizon if you happen to either relocate or have subscriptions with both. Now, if only the WWAN option wasn't >50% of the purchase price, we might actually consider it.Filed under: Laptops, Wireless, NetworkingHP's Mini 1000 offers Qualcomm Gobi WWAN chip as option originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 08 Dec 2008 15:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Earlier this year, Audioengine rolled out the practically universal AW1 wireless audio adapter, and we certainly enjoyed our time with it. Now, the outfit is making the anticipated leap to iPod-dom with the sequentially named AW2. Put simply, the kit contains two main pieces: a transmitter that plugs easily into your dock-connecting 'Pod and a USB-based receiver with a 3.5-millimeter auxiliary jack. The system operates on the WiFi frequency band and promises no dropouts, static or interference from CB radios whizzing by your domicile. We should mention, however, that you'll pay quite dearly for the privilege of beaming your tunes sans cables, though it's available now for those who don't mind at $169.[Via GadgetReview]Filed under: Peripherals, Portable Audio, WirelessAudioengine puts wires out of work with AW2 wireless iPod adapter originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 08 Dec 2008 08:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

If you're gonna dream, you might as well dream big huge, right? Intel's not only looking to blanket vast rural areas with WiFi, it's also looking to spread self-powered sensors, um, everywhere. Dubbed the wireless identification and sensing platform (WISP), the initiative could eventually place remarkably efficient microchips in human bodies, on mobile phones, public infrastructures, at airports and practically anywhere else where information needs to be gathered. The highly flexible solution is currently being perfected in the Intel labs and isn't apt to hit the commercial realm for at least three to five years; which is great, since we're still learning to deal with the world's obsession with CCTV.[Image courtesy of Berkeley]Filed under: Wireless, NetworkingIntel talks up self-powered sensors that do just about everything originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 07 Dec 2008 10:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Hang tight to that Samsung SWC-E100 ExpressCard you snatched up as one of the few early adopters in Baltimore -- that thing could one day be a serious relic (or rare eBay find). Just over a year since launching the perplexedly named XOHM WiMAX service, Sprint has decided to rechristen the whole thing Sprint 4G after its workings with Clearwire. Reportedly, the carrier will be offering up dual-mode CDMA / WiMAX modems as early as the end of this year (at least in the Charm City), while similarly equipped handsets won't be too many months behind (just like we'd heard). Kinda hurts to know you can't add a CDMA radio into that WiMAX-only card you already purchased, huh? [Via phonescoop]Filed under: Cellphones, WirelessSprint 4G dual-mode CDMA / WiMAX modems and handsets on tap originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 05 Dec 2008 17:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

It just been a few short days since it finally closed the deal with Sprint, but Clearwire is already out there busily rebranding its newly-acquired WiMAX assets, with Portland, Oregon first to get the new "Clear" WiMAX service, which the company humbly describes as "like lightning, but faster." To get in on that, you'll have to fork over between $30 and $50 a month (for unlimited service), or ten bucks for a 24 hour pass, with Clear's own USB modem setting you back an extra $50 (a desktop modem is also available for $5 a month). Somewhat interestingly, the company is also promising to offer WiMAX-ready laptops "soon," but it unfortunately isn't providing any further details on those just yet. Hit up the link below to check the exact availability of the service, and look for it to hit Las Vegas, Atlanta, and Grand Rapids, Michigan in the not too distant future.[Thanks, Stephen K.] Filed under: WirelessNewly-dubbed "Clear" WiMAX service hits Portland, Oregon originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 03 Dec 2008 17:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Peek's kinda-sorta email-only handheld is one of the more polarizing devices to hit this year. On one hand, anyone who cares that much about email in their pocket probably already owns an email-capable handset; on the other, those satisfied with their pay-as-you-go phone may seriously be interested in adding this to their arsenal. Regardless of your take on things, we figured you should know that it's available for "today only" at $49.95, clearly setting the bar for a Cyber Wednesday in years to come. 'Course, that $19.95 per month data requirement isn't going anywhere, but half a Benjamin might be worth it just to crack this sucker open and test your hacking skills.Filed under: Handhelds, WirelessPeek handheld: $49.95 for "today only" originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 03 Dec 2008 15:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments