Archive for the ‘Announce’ Category

New DSLR: Canon EOS 70D with Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology

Monday, July 1st, 2013

Canon has just unveiled globally the EOS 70D. The DSLR is Wi-Fi enabled and comes with new Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology – for faster focusing speeds and improved Movie Servo AF.

Available in August 2013, price TBA.

The new Canon EOS 70D DSLR with Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology.

The new Canon EOS 70D DSLR with Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology.

The EOS 70D is embedded with a powerful DIGIC 5+ image processor and a 20.2-megapixel APS-C sized CMOS sensor.

Canon EOS 70D: DIGIC 5+ image processor, 20.2-megapixel APS-C sized CMOS sensor, 100 to 12800 (expandable to 25600).

Canon EOS 70D: DIGIC 5+ image processor, 20.2-megapixel APS-C sized CMOS sensor, 100 to 12800 (expandable to 25600).

The first model in the EOS series to showcase the new Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology, a phase-difference autofocus (AF) technology, the EOS 70D achieves approximately 30% faster focusing speeds and delivers improved Movie Servo AF tracking during Live View shooting.

The new Dual Pixel CMOS AF Technology replicates how the human eye behaves. When switching between various AF points or areas, promising smoother and more natural transitions during the focusing process.

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New ASUS G10 & M51 desktop PCs with 4th Gen Intel Core processors

Friday, June 28th, 2013

The high-performance desktops feature ASUS SonicMaster audio, Smart Cooling technology and a removable UPS for data safety with mobile device recharging. Prices and specs within.

ASUS G10 and M51 ship with the latest 4th generation Intel Core processors.

ASUS G10 and M51 ship with the latest 4th generation Intel Core processors.

The latest G10 and M51 Desktop PCs from ASUS ship with the latest 4th generation Intel Core processors and NVIDIA GeForce GTX graphics for smooth multitasking and high-performance gaming.

SRP (without monitor)

G10AC-UPS S$1,770
G10AC S$1,640
M51AC-UPS S$1,290
M51AC S$1,160

Both new desktops also feature ASUS Smart Cooling technology for cooler and quieter operation, and ASUS Power Pack — a removable UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) that can also be used as a portable battery charger for smartphones and tablets.

In addition, the G10 and M51 are its first desktop PCs to feature ASUS SonicMaster audio technology for enhanced sound quality.

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Sony reveals new RX Cyber-shot cameras & HVL-F43M external flash

Thursday, June 27th, 2013

Sony has announced that its new Cyber-shot RX 100 II, Cyber-shot RX1R cameras will be available in Singapore from August 2013, while the HVL-F43M external flash will be available in July.

Update (1 July, 2013):

Sony has announced the pricing for its new Cyber-shot RX 100 II (S$999) and Cyber-shot RX1R (S$3,999) cameras.

From today, the retail price of the DSC-RX100 has been reduced to S$849 (from S$999).

Sony's new 20,2MP Cyber-shot RX 100 II (left) and 24.3MP Cyber-shot RX1R (right) cameras will be available in Singapore from August 2013 onwards.

Sony’s new 20,2MP Cyber-shot RX 100 II (left) and 24.3MP Cyber-shot RX1R (right) cameras will be available in Singapore from August 2013 onwards.

The Cyber-shot RX1R is a new full-frame compact camera and is the sister version of the Cyber-shot RX1.

Sony Cyber-shot RX1R is a S$3,999 full-frame compact camera with 24.3 megapixels and Carl Zeiss Sonnar T* F2 lens.

Sony Cyber-shot RX1R is a S$3,999 full-frame compact camera with 24.3 megapixels and Carl Zeiss Sonnar T* F2 lens.

It has 24.3 effective megapixels and a Carl Zeiss Sonnar T* F2 lens.

The RX1R removes the optical low-pass filter (OLPF) found in front of the RX1’s sensor, enabling flawless capture of fine details without any distortions.

This makes it ideal for taking landscape and other high-detail scenes.

The camera’s compatibility with TRILUMINOS Colour technology ensures richer, more natural colours when viewing stills and video on the latest generation of BRAVIA televisions with TRILUMINOS Display.

Sony Cyber-shot RX100 II comes with 20.2 megapixels, Wi-Fi and NFC. S$999.

Sony Cyber-shot RX100 II comes with 20.2 megapixels, Wi-Fi and NFC. S$999.

The new Cyber-shot RX100 II builds on the popular Cyber-shot RX100, with enhanced picture quality and convenient new features such as Wi-Fi and easy One-touch smartphone connection with NFC.

The RX100 II possesses increased sensor sensitivity with 20.2 effective megapixel back-illuminated Exmor R 1.0-type CMOS sensor, delivering DSLR-style shots regardless of the shooting situation.

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Major Adobe Creative Cloud (CC) updates now available

Wednesday, June 19th, 2013

The next generation of “CC” desktop applications include Adobe Photoshop CC, and delivers new community and publishing capabilities. Current Creative Cloud members get the update free.

The major update is free for existing Creative Cloud subscribers.

The major update is free for existing Creative Cloud subscribers.

Adobe Creative Cloud for Individuals was launched in Singapore last month and for teams in Jaunary.

“… in addition to the traditional areas of innovation these apps are now connected to the powerful publishing and community features integral to the Creative Cloud experience,” said David Wadhwani, senior vice president and general manager, Digital Media, Adobe.

This latest Creative Cloud release includes new features in the set of “CC” desktop applications and sophisticated cross-device collaboration and publishing capabilities.

Creative files can be stored and shared, via Creative Cloud, on Mac OS, Windows, iOS and Android.

Behance, a leading online creative community, is now integrated with Creative Cloud, so customers can showcase work, get feedback on projects and gain global exposure.

15 Adobe CC desktop applications

The new CC desktop applications include Adobe Photoshop CC, InDesign CC,  Illustrator CC, Dreamweaver CC, Premiere Pro CC.

Adobe Creative Cloud includes more than 30 tools and services that enable professional-grade content creation and delivery across print, web, mobile apps, video and photography.

Hundreds of new features are included in these latest versions of Adobe’s industry-defining desktop tools, some of which are highlighted here in my earlier update.

Adobe Creative Cloud Powers Frictionless Creative Workflows

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Event: Second Apple WWDC 2013 with Tim Cook – iOS 7 unveiled

Monday, June 10th, 2013

This is Tim Cook’s second Apple WWDC at the helm of Apple, with a slew of announcements after a dearth of new products.

Tim Cook's second WWDC at the helm of Apple.

Tim Cook’s second WWDC at the helm of Apple.

The annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) this year is being held from June 10 – 14 at San Francisco’s Moscone West.

Tickets went on sale on 26 April earlier this year – with each ticket going for US$1,599.

A compilation of the main releases from the keynote can be found at the Apple WWDC 2013 event page on the tech4tea Facebook page.

Below are the main revelations at the keynote of WWDC 2013

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New Android smartphone: Samsung GALAXY S4 Active (LTE)

Friday, June 7th, 2013

Samsung has announced in Korea the LTE-capable GALAXY S4 Active – its answer to the Sony Xperia Z – in terms of dust and water resistance. It is expected to be available in Singapore in Q3 2013.

Update (10 July, 2013):

The Urban Gray version of the Samsung GALAXY S4 ACTIVE With LTE will be available in Singapore from 13 July. RRP: SGD$898 (incl. GST but excluding contract).

The Orange Flare version will be available end-July.

Don’t be surprised if you see the new Samsung GALAXY S4 Active in Singapore as early as July.

Don’t be surprised if you see the new Samsung GALAXY S4 Active in Singapore as early as July.

The GALAXY S4 Active is designed to be the “perfect companion for exploration, activity and adventure”.

“The GALAXY S4 Active is the newest addition to the GALAXY series and is purposefully designed for active users who love the outdoors,” said JK Shin, CEO and President of IT & Mobile Communications Division at Samsung Electronics.

It is targeted at the active user who wants to stay connected while exploring environments from the most rugged mountain trails to the roughest rivers.

Recognizing the demands of a dynamic lifestyle, the GALAXY S4 Active was engineered to keep active users connected as they explore and experience the world around them.

The GALAXY S4 Active has qualified protection from dust and water (IP67), so you never have to leave the device at home during a long day at the beach or dusty hike.

The fully sealed design keeps dust particles out and protects against water damage for up to 30 minutes of submergence at a depth of one meter.

Equipped with a water-resistant earphone jack, the GALAXY S4 Active frees you to use earphones in more adventurous conditions, in the same way you’ve used them in normal ones.

Whether capturing every moment of a wild rafting trip or taking a great underwater photo in the pool, the device’s unique construction lets users capture amazing moments previously impossible using a normal smartphone.

“Samsung has taken the innovative features of the GALAXY S4 and added breakthrough protective design elements to create a device that thrives in an active environment and is built for a lifestyle of travel and exploration.”

The Android 4.2.2 (Jelly Bean) smartphone has a 5-inch’ Full HD (1920 x 1080) TFT LCD screen (443 PPI) touch screen, with a 2,600mAh battery.

The GALAXY S4 Active is powered by a 1.9 GHZ Quad-Core processor.

It measures 139.7 x 71.3 x 9.1 mm and weighs 153g.

The smartphone has a 8-megapixel rear camera with LED flash light and 2-megapixel front camera.

Below are the technical specifications for the Samsung GALAXY S4 Active.

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Challenges of hosting Lord of the Rings movie concert in Singapore

Saturday, May 25th, 2013

Global effort behind “The Lord of the Rings – The Fellowship of the Ring” movie concert in Singapore (6-8 June, 2013) overcomes the technical challenges of 250-musician performance-cum-movie screening.

"The Lord of the Rings - The Fellowship of the Ring" movie concert at The Star Performing Arts Centre from 6 - 8 June 2013, 7.30pm. Tickets from SISTIC: $228 (VIP), $188, $128, $98, $58

“The Lord of the Rings – The Fellowship of the Ring” movie concert at The Star Performing Arts Centre from 6 – 8 June 2013, 7.30pm. Tickets from SISTIC: $228 (VIP), $188, $128, $98, $58

The Metropolitan Festival Orchestra (MFO), the organiser for the movie concert, has announced that it is on track to hold the largest-ever performance at The Star Performing Arts Centre (The Star PAC) from June 6 to 8.

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New Bluetooth speaker: Ultimate Ears UE BOOM from Logitec

Wednesday, May 22nd, 2013

UE BOOM connects wirelessly via Bluetooth to smartphones, tablets and computers to blast out 360 degree sound for up to 15-hours on its battery recharge. Available in early June at S$299.

The Ultimate Ears UE BOOM is available in four colours (blue, red, black and white) from June at S$299. Photo from Logitech Singapore.

The Ultimate Ears UE BOOM is available in four colours (blue, red, black and white) from June at S$299. Photo from Logitech Singapore.

Logitech calls the UE BOOM the “World’s first Social Music Player” in this cloud-based era of digital music.

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Skoolbo releases Zalairos Adventures for iPads for free

Monday, May 20th, 2013

Skoolbo today announced the release of the special edition of Zalairos Adventures for the iPads for free. The collection contains all 25 audio books with more than 12 hours of enthralling content.

The 25 audio books in Skoolbo's Zalairos Adventures Collection for iPad is now available for free.

The 25 audio books in Skoolbo’s Zalairos Adventures Collection for iPad is now available for free.

The eBooks have been designed to foster a love of stories amongst children aged from four to eleven.

“We had so much fun creating the Zalairos and we’re absolutely delighted to share them. We believe that every child should be given opportunities to improve their reading skills,” said Shane Hill, Founder and CEO of Skoolbo.

Through extraordinary adventures, the Zalairos collection teachs children important values such as teamwork, respect and kindness, having an active mental and physical lifestyle as well as good triumphing over bad.

Young readers are able to expand their vocabulary and reading skills while enjoying stunning illustrations and lively narration.

In addition, there are quizzes at the end of each audio book to help children improve their comprehension skills.

Children also benefit by listening to expert narration and storytelling.

The twenty-five titles that make up the collection are:

  1. The Vanishing Icebergs
  2. The Island of Giants
  3. Funbo Mayhem
  4. Troubles in the Amazon
  5. The Bo Lake Mystery
  6. Bubblegum Moon
  7. (more…)

HP Slate 7 Android tablet to hit Singapore on 6 June (S$199)

Sunday, May 19th, 2013

Following the availability of HP’s 10.1-inch ElitePad 900 Windows 8 tablet in Singapore 2 weeks ago, HP will be debuting their first Android tablet three weeks from now on 6 June.

The HP Slate 7 has a stainless steel frame and is available in silver or red in Singapore.

The HP Slate7 has a stainless steel frame and is available in silver or red in Singapore.

Pre-orders for the 7-inch Jelly Bean tablet is open now at S$199 while stocks last. That’s S$50 off the regular RRP of S$249.

HP Slate7
OS Android 4.1.1 (Jelly Bean)
Screen 7″ HFFS Panel
Resolution 1024 x 600
Battery 3,500 mAh Li-Po
Processor ARM Dual Core Cortex-A9 1.6GHz processor, 1GB DDR3 RAM
Camera Rear: 3 megapixels
Front: VGA
Audio Beats Audio
Others Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Memory Int: 8 GB
Ext: microSD slot
Size /mm 197 x 116 x 10.7
Weight 370 g
Price S$199 (S$249)

Embedded with Beats Audio, the 7-inch tablet is an affordable consumer device for enjoying music on the go – with headphones that possibly cost more than the tablet itself.

In fact, the HP Slate7 is cheaper than Google-backed ASUS Nexus 7 that came out last year.

While the business-ready HP ElitePad on Windows 8 is targeted towards enterprises and governments, the HP Slate7 aims to be an entry point for for consumers.

The High-aperture-ratio Field Fringe Switching (HFFS) panel of the Slate7 offers wide viewing angles even in outdoor lighting conditions.

The Slate7 comes with HP ePrint application, which enables users to easily print at home or on the go via the Internet to a web-enabled printer.

There is also a native printing capability in the tablet to print directly from most applications.