Google Video

For all the video freaks out there who always have a camcorder rolling you might want to know a little about Google Video.

If you haven't heard about it yet, Google had launched Google Video.

Let's say it's a search engine for videos.

At Video.Google.com you can search things such as "Family Guy", or "bloopers" and the videos are displayed.

Then you select which one you want to watch and it plays right in front of you.

I have a video I want to share with the world!

Well, then you just have to sign up for Google's Video Upload Program.

Once you are done you are then able to upload your videos.

You can make visitors click to your site (if you own one), add captions or transcripts, add information for people to find your video through a search, and you can even delete a video once you have uploaded it.

Google is not accepting physical videos at the time (eg. VHS etc.) but it will accept the following formats.

• MPEG4 format with MP3 audio


• MPEG2 with MP3

Do I like it?

Yes and no. I think it's neat that you can find videos on a subject but I think it's a bit of a hit-and-miss.

People either like it or hate it. Sometimes you get the right video but the quality is bad.

But then again there are millions of sites out there offer a more targeted range for videos that you might want to look at (e.g. Funny videos).

I will admit that if you are good at creating videos and have or want a following or want to share family memories with loved ones, you should at least try out Google Video.

Tech Guru Rates This 3.5 out of 5

Technorati Tags: gadgets, technology, videos, Google

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Need For Speed Most Wanted

Well, EA Games has yet again come out with a winner. If you've stuck with the Need For Speed series then you will love this game.

Need For Speed Most Wanted challenges the player to become the most notorious street car racer on the streets of Rockport.

Take the customization of cars from Underground and Underground 2 and mix that with the adrenaline pumping Hot Pursuit series and you get - Need for Speed Most Wanted.

The game features cars such as BMW M3, Porsche Cayman S and Lamborghini Gallardo to Mazda RX-8, Ford Mustang GT and Mitsubishi Eclipse.

Most Wanted allows you to customize these beauties inside and out.

Also Need For Speed Most Wanted introduces new gameplay.

Cops strategically pursue the user and the user needs to use skill to evade the cops.

You just can't shake 'em off like you used to.

Need For Speed Most Wanted also introduces the Blacklist and the Rap Sheet.

The Blacklist makes the player want to rise to the top and become the top illicit street racer by beating out other top racers.

The Rap Sheet is built by breaking record times, challenging players on the street, and, of course, evading the cops.

The graphics in this game are amazing and more visually stunning. The layout has more of an industrial/urban look to it which makes sense for this type of game.

And of course we can't forget about the cars (they also look stunning). There are cars for each type of illicit racer:

Tuner

You can tune cars like crazy. Cars like the Mitsubishi Lancer, if tuned correctly, can battle it out with the luxury cars.

There are plenty of cars to tune to and allow you to outrun the cops. Also each car can be totally customized in terms of visuals.

Fugitive

The game also allows you to listen to the cop scanner which is always on. You are able to know where the cops are and what strategies they are gonna use to bust ya.

Listen up if you want to make it out alive.

Cars like the Mustang GT are great for it's power and tire burning fun.

High End

If you like high end then you are gonna love the Lamborghini Gallardo. It's sleek and sexy and provides tire burning power. Take this baby out for a ride!

Overall Need For Speed Most Wanted looks like a real winner. There is no doubt that this game will provide adrenaline pumping and heart stopping moments for months to come.

Find out more information on the Most Wanted website!

Tech Guru Rates This 4.5 out of 5

Technorati Tags: gadgets, games, EA, Need For Speed, Most Wanted.

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High Worm Alert: Sober X

A new and extremely fast and dangerous spreading worm is on the loose.

The worm, named Sober X comes through as an e-mail. The e-mail is a bogus FBI or CIA document that claims that the U.S. government has caught your IP address visiting over 30 illegal websites.

It then asks that you open the attachment to fill out some questions.

Once you open the e-mail's attachment the virus spreads to everyone on you contacts or address list.

It also disables firewall, virus protection and blocks you from entering computer security sites that can help fix the problem.

Once your computer defences are weakened the worm could potentially grab personal information from you.

Alfred Huger, a senior director of engineering at Symantec Corp, says:

"This particular virus is a mass-mailer worm and is the largest one we have seen this year,"

"It's as bad as it gets,"

"With this particular type of virus on your system, there is a high probability that your personal information will be stolen."

The FBI and the CIA haven't found this funny. Both organizations have put warnings telling people that they haven't sent out these e-mails and urging them not to open the attachment.

Here are some tips to protect yourself from worms and viruses:

• Be leary of opening e-mail attachments, especially if they don't come from people you know. If you are even in the least suspicious, delete it!


• Install and anti-virus program and keep it up to date.


• Install a firewall

(See: TheStar.com)

Technorati Tags: worm, virus, Sober X.

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Skype - VoIP, Chat, Call Forwarding

If you haven't heard of VoIP you need to find what this technology can do for you.

If you enjoy talking to family in far away lands but hate to pay long-distance bills, VoIP technology can help.

VoIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) is a technology that allows you to talk to someone over the Internet - eliminating all need to pay for long distance charges because you use your Internet connection.

What you need to get started:

• High speed Internet or a broadband Internet connection


• A computer microphone


• Some type of VoIP software

Skype is an an example of a VoIP software. The great thing is that it is totally free.

However, if you want to talk to someone through Skype, that person at the end of the computer must also have the Skype software installed.

Here are some great features of Skype:

• It has good quality sound.


• It allows for free telephone conversation to anywhere in the world provided that they have the Skype software installed.


• It allows for chat.


• And Skype allows you to forward calls to your mobiles, landlines or another Skype name.

Now that's just for the person. . . but Skype can even be used to make conference calls. Skype also supports toll free numbers from companies so that it's customers can call for free.

The software works on many operating systems (Mac OS, Windows, Linux, Pocket PC) and is very simple to use.

To find (a lot) more information or to download Skype visit Skype.com.

Technorati Tags: gadgets, technology, Skype, VoIp.

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Robosapien V2 - An Electronic Marvel

Like robots? I do. Even if you don't know much about them you probably are amazed at what they can do.

There have been many robot toys on the market that walk, make sounds and so on. Robosapien V2 tops all in its market.

Mark Tilden's creation is smarter compared to it's original and a lot of fun to play with.

The Robosapien V2 is just amazing. Firstly, it is able to "free roam". That means that it can walk around unaided, detect objects with it's infrared vision, and avoid them.

It can talk and interact with humans and objects in its environment.

The Robosapien V2 can even mimic human movements such as: sitting down, bending, standing, getting up, martial arts, dancing and much more.

Not only that but Robosapien V2 can recognize colors and skin tones. It even can track moving objects.

The Robosapien was the first robot that was able to pick on object off a tabletop!

And if you think that's enough I haven't even begun to mention the over 100 pre-programmed functions that Robosapien V2 can perform.

This robot will astound you for hours on end. It requires 6 D and 7AAA batteries.

The cost is a bit pricey at $280, but for the electronic junkie or that young one it will delight for months to come.

For more information on the Robosapien V2 check out the official website.

Technorati Tags: gadgets, technology, robot, Robosapien.

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Get Reporo, Get Shopping On Your Cell Phone

If you thought that to shop you had to go to the store or online, Reporo will show you that you now can shop from your mobile phone.

Reporo is a Java application that lets UK users shop on their mobiles – any time, any place.

Users can choose from thousands of products from leading retailers, with new shops being added every week.

Reporo is free, easy to use and simple to setup.

It is the first mobile shopping service that works across all major mobile networks and is compatible with over 150 handsets, including most recent models.

So what can you buy?

Well, using your cellphone, you can purchase, flowers, beauty products, books, candles, CDs, DVDs, devices, games and gadgets, wines, and even computers.

What's really cool is that you can even take advantage of special offers that are made only to Reporo users.

Here's what some users said about the Reporo service:

"I just wanted to write and tell you, I tried Reporo this weekend and couldn't believe how easy it was. I was getting my hair done and saw something recommended in Marie Claire. So I ordered it, right there in the chair! It's already arrived this morning."

Heather

Another said:

"I want you to know I think the Reporo service is fantastic and will be spreading the word about. Thanks so much for providing this service."

Ann-Marie

Users register at www.reporo.com, we send Reporo to their mobile and they can start shopping straight away.

You can find out more at www.reporo.com.

Technorati Tags: gadgets, technology, reporo, cell phone.

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Mooble.com: An Online Social Networking Community

If you want an online community where you and your friends can hangout, then this is the site for you.

Mooble.com is a flash based social networking community with so many cool features you'd think it's unreal.

But the best part is that it's free!

So what exactly does Mooble.com provide?

Well here are some of its features:

• Chat (online, video, audio) with friends without downloading a single thing.


• Join an interest group or announce an event


• Share pictures of yourself with your friends or the world


• Blogging


• Personal voice greeting


• Speed Dating

That's not all though. You can even get rated by other members.

Of course there are privacy settings so that if you only want your friends being able to contact you, you can select that setting.

The navigation of Mooble.com is simple and straight-forward. It's design and choice of color is stunning.

Technorati Tags: website.

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Google Now allows Gmail Invitation Via Cellphones

If you live in the United States and have a cellphone you can now receive an instant Gmail invitation without having to track one down from the web or your friends.


Gmail, Google's free e-mail service, is now opening up to more members of the public.

While it is still a invitation only feature at the moment, Google is expanding Gmail to send invitations to US mobile phones.

To do this visit the SMS Sign Up Form on Google's website.

You have to input your number into a text box and also type in a verification code (Step 1).

It must be noted that Google will store your number so you don't try to make hundreds of e-mail addresses.

Furthermore, once you give your number Google will send you a verification code.

Plunk that into another textbox (Step 2) and your cell phone number and you then can start setting up your Gmail account.

Note: If you really want a Gmail account and can't find one or don't have a US cellphone, e-mail me and I'll give you one!

Technorati Tags: gadgets, Google, Gmail

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Pocket-Lint Introduces The Fluffies

Pocket-Lint.co.uk, the UK's leading gadget review website with almost 2 million page impressions each month, is pleased to announce the launch of the first annual Pocket-Lint.co.uk Awards - The Fluffies.

The awards will heap plaudits upon the cream of this year's gadgets, rewarding real innovation and excellence in design.

Never before has it been so important to provide a trusted guide as to what is hot, and what is not in the world of consumer gadgetry.

The past year has seen huge change, including the mass market adoption of GPS navigation devices, the world¹s first ipod mobile phone, widespread proliferation of MP3 players in all shapes, sizes and colours, the UK's first 3 megapixel cameraphone and the next generation of handheld gaming devices.

The Fluffies aim to provide clarity and sanity within an environment of massive upheaval, progress and complexity.

The awards, to be held on the 1 December 2005 will be decided from a shortlist of products, as decided by Pocket-Lint.co.uk readers.

Any product fitting into one of the 12 categories below and launched in the UK after the first of December 2004 will be eligible.

Readers will also be able to vote for the Vodafone sponsored, Pocket-lint Readers Award ­ nominating the best overall product of 2005.

Awards will be given in the following categories:

• Best MP3 Player


• Best Media Player


• Best Mobile Phone


• Best Compact Digital Camera


• Best Prosumer Digital Camera


• Best PC or Console Game


• Best Laptop


• Best Home Entertainment Gadget


• Best PDA or GPS Device


• Best Lifestyle Gadget


• Most Innovative Gadget of 2005


• Best Overall Gadget or Gizmo 2005 (The Pocket-lint Readers Award 2005)

Stuart Miles, editor of pocketlint.co.uk, said:

"The consumer electronic industry is rampant at present. Never has the pace of innovation been so rapid and with Christmas rapidly approaching there has never been a better time to sort the wheat from the chaff.

Pocket-lint takes great pride in the quality of its reviews and for those products that make the grade, the Fluffies will heap praise where it is due."

Pocket lint now receives almost half a million visitors every month and reviews over six products every week.

Readers can see what gadgets have been nominated and vote for their favourite Gadget of 2005 at http://www.pocket-lint.co.uk/fluffies

About pocket-lint.co.uk
www.Pocket-lint.co.uk is the leading gadgets, gear and gizmos sites in the UK receiving 1.5 million page impressions a month.

The site covers everything from digital cameras and mobile phones to home appliances and boys toys.

Staffed by a number of established journalists, the site has become a one-stop-shop for anyone wanting advice as to which piece of kit to choose.

Pocket-lint regularly breaks exclusive news stories and reviews by virtue of the contacts it has with key technology manufacturers.

For further information please contact:

Stuart Miles at stuart[at]pocket-lint.co.uk

Technorati Tags: gadgets,technology.

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Apple: 20 Days 1 Million Videos

Well with the release of the new iPod, dubbed the video iPod, people have apparently been downloaded tons of videos - and legally.

iTunes online now allows a person to download shows such as Desperate Housewives, and Lost ($1.99).

Music fans are also enjoy the ability to download music videos from artists such as Michael Jackson, Fatboy Slim, and Kanye West.

Apple has stated that within 20 days, it has sold 1 million videos.

I don't know about you but that's a lot of videos. This fact shows that people are not only likely to download videos, but also to do so legally.

As we all know legal downloads are always good for the music and TV industries.

Apple is allegedly in negotiations with other TV networks to allow their shows to also be downloaded on iTunes.


Technorati Tags: gadgets, Apple, iPod, video.

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Yamaha YSP 800 and YSP 1000 Digital Sound Projectors

Yamaha Electronics Corporation continues to lead the evolution of the digital home theater, and adds two new components to its revolutionary Digital Sound Projector™ line: the YSP-1000 and YSP-800.

Worthy successors to the highly acclaimed YSP-1, which created a new home theater category, the YSP-1000 and YSP-800 provide true multi-channel surround sound that eliminates the need for multiple speakers and messy cables.

Slim and compact, these surround sound components are the perfect complement to a variety TVs and video monitors.

Yamaha’s first digital sound projector, the innovative YSP-1, was a true audio breakthrough, offering a more convenient way to achieve multi-channel surround sound.

The YSP-1000 and YSP-800 employ the same Digital Sound Projector™ technology as the YSP-1 and have been upgraded in both sound quality and functionality.

The Digital Sound Projectors include a delay-controlled digital amplifier for each driver, to create “beams” of sound that are precisely aimed for optimum surround sound effect.

These focused beams produce direct and reflected sound waves that provide true multi-channel surround sound, as well as stereo and three-channel sound. The YSP-1000’s 40 sound beam drivers are each powered by their own digital amplifiers.


Both the YSP-1000 and YSP-800 incorporate an Automated System Calibration that adjusts the beams of sound, and Yamaha Parametric Room Acoustic Optimizer (YPAO) technologies optimize the sound performance of any room. YPAO, which is also featured in Yamaha’s high-end receivers, plays a key role in configuring the system.

This technology completely simplifies the home theater set-up process by automatically analyzing room acoustics and finding the best beam angle by channel at the listening position, all at the touch of a button.

The entire process takes less than three minutes––and with YPAO, the user can be assured of a “professionally calibrated” surround sound system. Manual setup is still possible with a Digital Sound Projector.

The Yamaha Digital Sound Projector’s elegant design is an ideal match for any type of display, including flat panel displays, rear-projection TVs and conventional CRT TVs.

The YSP-1000 is a perfect match with a 42” wide display, whereas the YSP-800 is designed as a more compact version to function with smaller size displays.

The components can be wall-mounted by using the optional bracket to save space and complement the room, or can be placed nicely in or on top of an AV rack or TV rack. Naturally, as a single unit, additional speakers and wiring are not necessary.

As a result, both Digital Sound Projectors are an excellent solution for video enthusiasts who opt to build home theater systems around large flat-screen TVs and desire a neat, uncluttered, unobtrusive system to match the interior of a room.

This single component was designed to appeal to a variety of users, including first-time home theater system buyers.

The Digital Sound Projectors are fully compatible with the latest Dolby Digital, DTS, Dolby Pro Logic II and DTS Neo: 6 surround sound formats, and include three CINEMA DSP category surround sound programs, Movie, Music and Sports.

Even normal stereo sources such as TV programs can be enjoyed through multi-channel environment with more realistic sounds.

In addition, both components include “Target Beam Mode,” which focuses one sweet spot for best listening anywhere in the room; Night Listening Enhancer with Cinema and Music modes; TV Equal Volume mode to prevent sudden bursts of loud sound when watching TV; TruBass; and preset remote controls.

The YSP-1000 provides two component video inputs and three composite video inputs, and provides custom installation features such as IR pass through, IR in, and an RS-232C terminal for custom control integration.

Both the YSP-1000 and YSP-800 are available in silver and black versions to match the latest video display cosmetics. Wall mounting brackets are also available (SPM-K1 for YSP-1000, SPM-K8 for YSP-800) for each component.

The YSP-1000 (MSRP $1699.95) will be available in late 2005 and The YSP-800 (MSRP $899.95) is currently shipping.

For more information, write Yamaha Electronics Corporation, P.O. Box 6660, Buena Park, CA 90622; telephone (714) 522-9105; e-mail infostation@yamaha.com; or visit www.yamaha.com/home .

Technorati Tags: gadgets

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Battle Between Google And Microsoft Heats Up

As Google begins to move services online, Microsoft is beginning to follow suit.

Microsoft has unveiled a new way of moving services and software online.

Microsoft has launched (in Beta stage) Windows Live - www.live.com.

The site will contain tools that are currently over at msn.com, more customization tools, and the ability to view these services and products from anywhere at anytime.

The Windows Live will begin running early next year and will function on an invitation only basis (similar to Gmail).

It seems that finally Microsoft has realized that they need to begin doing something bigger online or else Google will soon overshadow them and everyone else.

Technorati Tags: Microsoft, Windows, technology, Google.

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The Simpsons And EA Team Up!

Well, any Simpson is gonna love this piece of news. Fox has agreed to a long term licensing agreement with EA Games so that it's able to begin creating video games based on the Simpsons.


Many know EA for great games such as the Sims and the Need For Speed series to mention, but a few.

EA will work with the creators of The Simpsons to create the games. Don't fret the great people who do the voices of Homer, Bart, Apu etc. will also work with EA.

I'm sure that we'll be seeing some good quality Simpson games in the future.

(See: EAOnline.com)

Technorati Tags: Simpsons, Fox, EA, TV.

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Windows Vista Could Be Sold In Parts

Microsoft has constantly tried to fight piracy. Check out it's newest incentive on how to stop people from buying illegal operating systems.

Instead of releasing it's next operating system in one package Microsoft is looking at splitting it up into parts.

So instead of paying hundreds of dollars for the operating system(OS), which causes people to look to illegal copies, you could buy the interface for $100 or the new file system for $100.

I think this is a great idea, because sometimes you don't need everything that comes with the OS.

I think consumers will now be able to buy the bare bones and upgrade as they have more money instead of spending it all at once.

Technorati Tags: Windows, Vista, Microsoft.

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