Monthly Archives: April 2012

Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. (SCE) announced that it will launch “nasne™,” a new networked recorder and media storage device with built in 500GB hard disk drive (HDD) and digital terrestrial and satellite broadcast tuners. “nasne” will become available in Japan on July 19, 2012, for a recommended retail price of 16,980 yen (including tax).

By connecting “nasne” to their home network, users will be able to watch and record digital terrestrial and satellite broadcast through dedicated applications such as “torne” for PlayStation®3 (PS3®) and “VAIO TV with nasne” for VAIO. Users will also be able to access recorded content from PlayStation®Vita (PS Vita), “Sony Tablet” and Xperia™. In addition, “nasne” will be able to stream live or recorded television programs simultaneously onto two of these supported Sony products, allowing multiple users to view the same content within the same home network.(1) “nasne” will also link with “G GUIDE TV OUKOKU CHAN-TORU”, a television guide web service for PC and smart phones provided by So-net Entertainment Corporation. Through “G GUIDE TV OUKOKU CHAN-TORU”, users will be able to schedule recordings of television programs on the go from their PS Vita, PC, tablet PCs, and smart phones.

In addition, “nasne” functions as a media storage device, allowing users to store their movies, photos and music on its 500GB built-in HDD, which can be enjoy on any DLNA compatible device connected to their home network. Users can also expand storage memory by connecting external HDD to “nasne.” (2)

“We are offering a seamless and unique Sony experience through ‘nasne,’ which serves as a home entertainment hub that connects to Sony’s various network products,” said Kazuo Hirai, Representative Corporate Executive Officer, President and CEO of Sony Corporation and Chairman of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. “‘nasne’ will give users more freedom to enjoy television in new ways by enabling them to watch programs on various Sony products through dedicated applications. We will continue to offer attractive products and services that inspire customers around the world and spark their curiosity, by further enhancing collaboration within Sony groups.”

“nasne” will deliver the following features through its combination with Sony products.

PlayStation®3
PS3 users will be able to watch and record (3) digital terrestrial and satellite broadcast through LAN cable by installing “torne” version 4.0, a dedicated application for PS3, which will come bundled with “nasne.”

By connecting a maximum of four “nasne” units to their PS3, users can simultaneously record up to four television programs. Those who already have a “torne” device connected to their PS3 will be able to connect a maximum of four “nasne” units to their PS3 and record up to five television programs.(4) Details of “torne” version 4.0 for PS3 will be announced separately.

PlayStation®Vita

PS Vita users will be able to watch and record digital terrestrial and satellite broadcasts through “torne for PS Vita” (tentative name), a dedicated application for accessing “nasne” from anywhere within the same home network via Wi-Fi connection . “torne for PS Vita” will become available within this calendar year.

By leveraging the ability of “nasne” to simultaneously create an export file while a television program is being recorded, users can quickly transfer recorded content through Wi-Fi connection and easily enjoy them on the go on their PS Vita’s beautiful 5-inch OLED. Details of “torne for PS Vita” will be announced in due course.

VAIO PC
VAIO PC users will be able to watch and record digital terrestrial and satellite broadcasts through “VAIO TV with nasne” (beta version)(5), a dedicated application for accessing “nasne” from anywhere within the same home network via Wi-Fi connection or LAN cable. “VAIO TV with nasne” (beta version) will become available concurrently with the release of “nasne.”

Key features of “VAIO TV with nasne”:

Recorded television programs on “nasne'” can be copied to Blu-ray Disc and DVD, or transferred to VAIO PC’s HDD or State Solid Drive (SSD).
Up to eight digital terrestrial and satellite broadcasts can be simultaneously recorded by connecting a maximum of eight “nasne” hardware units to VAIO PC.
Television programs can be searched by keywords.
“VAIO TV with nasne” will become available for Windows 7 equipped VAIO PCs (6) through “VAIO Update,” an automatic free update service for VAIO PC users.

“Sony Tablet” / Xperia™
Sony Tablet(7) / Xperia(8) users will be able to watch and record digital terrestrial and satellite broadcasts through dedicated applications for Sony Tablet / Xperia for accessing “nasne” from within the same home network via Wi-Fi connection. Users will be also able to schedule recordings of television programs through “G GUIDE TV OUKOKU CHAN-TORU.”

SCE will continue to aggressively expand the new world of entertainment through the combination of “nasne” and PlayStation platforms as well as other networked Sony products.

Product Outline

“nasne™”

Product name
nasne™
Product code
CECH-ZNR1J
Release date
July 19, 2012
Recommended retail price (RRP)
16,980 yen (including tax)
Product color
Black
External dimension
Approx. 43 × 189 × 136 mm (width × length ×height)
Weight
Approx 460g
RF tuners
Terrestrial: ISTB-T × 1
Satellite: ISDB-S × 1
Channels
Terrestrial: VHF 1-12ch, UHF 13-62ch, CATV C13-C63ch
Satellite: BS/CS110°digital (1032-2071MHz)
Internal HDD
SATA 2.5 inch (Capacity:500GB)
Inputs/Outputs
LAN port (100BASE-TX, 1000BASE-T)
ANTENNA IN connector
ANTENNA OUT connector
EXT HDD connector (USB 2.0, Type A)
B-CAS card slot
Buttons
Power button
IP RESET button
Indicators
Power indicator
REC indicator
IP status indicator
HDD access indicator
Power
AC 100V, DC 12V.1.5A
Power consumption
Recording and streaming two videos: 9.5W
ECO mode in stand-by: 1.5W
Network Recorder features
DTCP-IP support
Live streaming / recorded content streaming of digital terrestrial / satellite television program (for home and mobile devices)
2 recording mode (DR and SLP) support
Registration as remote PVR device to be accessed through the internet
Trick play / scene search support
Resume play
Media Storage Device features
Media server features
– DLNA 1.5 support
– Live tuner (terrestrial / satellite broadcasting) and DMS streaming of recorded programs
– Support image / music / video formats and metadata as PS3® (will be supported by “nasne” system software version 1.50. Some formats not supported)
– DMS streaming of image / music / video files on the media server (will be supported by “nasne” system software version 1.50)
– Support multiple DLNA devices (up to 2 DTCP-IP content streaming or 1 live streaming)
File server features
– Shared directory configuration
– Workgroup configuration
Other features
“nasne HOME” web browser application
Support an external hard drive
ECO mode (Stand-by after 10 minutes without an access)
Support “nasne” system software update
Included
“nasne” × 1
AC adaptor × 1
Power cable × 1
LAN cable × 1
RF coaxial cable × 1
B-CAS card × 1
Digital terrestrial broadcasting watching/recorder application for PS3® (Blu-ray™ Disc) × 1
Quick start guide × 1

About Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.

Recognized as the global leader and company responsible for the progression of consumer-based computer entertainment, Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. (SCEI) manufactures, distributes, develop and markets the PlayStation®2 (PS2®) computer entertainment system, the PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) handheld entertainment system, the PlayStation®3 (PS3®) computer entertainment system and the PlayStation®Vita (PS Vita) portable entertainment system. SCEI has revolutionized home entertainment since they launched PlayStation in 1994. PS2® further enhances the PlayStation legacy as the core of home networked entertainment. PSP® is a handheld entertainment system that allows users to enjoy 3D games with high-quality full-motion video and high-fidelity stereo audio. PS3® is an advanced computer system, incorporating the powerful Cell Broadband Engine and RSX processors. PS Vita is an ultimate portable entertainment system that offers a revolutionary combination of rich gaming and social connectivity within a real world context. SCEI also delivers the PlayStation® experience to open operating systems through PlayStation®Suite, a cross platform and cross device initiative. Headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, SCEI, along with its affiliated companies, Sony Computer Entertainment America LLC., and Sony Computer Entertainment Europe Ltd., and its division companies, Sony Computer Entertainment Japan and Sony Computer Entertainment Asia develops, publishes, markets and distributes hardware and software, and manages the third party licensing programs for these platforms in the respective markets worldwide.

“PlayStation” and “PS3” are registered trademarks of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.

“nasne” and “torne” is a trademark of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.

VAIO and “Sony Tablet” are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Sony Corporation.

“Xperia” is a registered trademark or a trademark of Sony Mobile Communications AB.

Windows is either a registered trademark or a trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.

All other trademarks are property of their respective owners.

“nasne” will stream two recorded television programs through DTCP/IP simultaneously. As media storage devices, “nasne” will be able to share stored content with up to 63 connecting devices.
DLNA Functionality will become available by installing the system software update of “nasne” version 1.50.
To enjoy satellite broadcasting, users will need to install a satellite broadcasting antenna or establish an equal environment.
Up to four satellite broadcasting can be simultaneously recorded.
VAIO TV with nasne” Beta version will become available at the release timing, and no support will be available.
Details of supporting models will be announced in due course.
For Sony Tablet, “RECOPLA” provided by Sony Corporation will need to be installed on the device. “RECOPLA” will become available through “Select App” icon on “Sony Table” or Google Play Store for free download. Sony Table system software as well as “Media players” supporting “RECOPLA” will need to be updated.
Some models of “Xperia” will support “nasne” within this calendar year. Details will be announced on the Sony Mobile Communications AB web site in due course.
SOURCE Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc.

John Browning writing on Engadget has posted an interesting article “How-To: Set up a home file server using FreeNAS” a walkthrough on setting up an open source storage platform called FreeNAS as a “digital bookshelf”.

FreeNAS is an operating system based on FreeBSD that hasweb interface for management, and all the protocols you need to share files between Windows, Mac and Linux.

Read more at: http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/01/how-to-set-up-a-home-file-server-using-freenas/

SmartWatch from Sony connects to Android smartphones via BluetoothTM giving you the ability to control key functions without removing your smartphone from your pocket or bag. With just a tap, touch, and swipe, SmartWatch turns from a watch displaying the time to a remote information center for your Android smartphone.

A growing number of apps are available for download through Google Play – including those for social updates, workouts and music – all customized for the 1.3-inch OLED SmartWatch touch screen. While SmartWatch works with these existing apps, Android developers can create apps specifically for the device. SmartWatch works with most Android (2.1 and above) smartphones.

“SmartWatch is the first of many Smart Extras that seamlessly connect and expand the smartphone’s reach and user experience,” said Paul Hamnett, President and Head of Customer Unit, North America, Sony Mobile Communications. “Designed to break free from the single screen experience, SmartWatch provides access to live content and entertainment on the go.”

The durable SmartWatch is dust proof and splash proof and comes with a black rubber wristband included in the box. Wristbands in five additional colors are available for purchase. SmartWatch’s design includes a rear mounted clip, so it can be removed from the wristband and attached to clothing or a belt.

At launch, SmartWatch has a suggested retail price of $149.99 and will be available at http://www.sony.com/smartwatch and Sony stores. SmartWatch availability at additional retailers will be announced soon.

SmartWatch is part of Sony Mobile Communications’ strategy to create Smart Extras that make Android smartphones smarter.

Key Features of Sony XperiaTM SmartWatch:
Dimensions: 1.42 X 1.42 X 0.3 in
Weight: 0.55 oz
Display: 1.3″ OLED display, 128 x 128 pixels
Compatibility: BluetoothTM 3.0 and AndroidTM 2.1 or above Connectivity: Standard USB charging
Battery life: Up to 4 days
Language support for: English, Spanish, French, Chinese (Traditional), Portuguese, Swedish, Russian, Danish, Polish, Japanese, Czech, German, Modern Greek, Dutch
Notifications: Display notification or vibration
Apps: All events (displays in chronological order), Messaging (SMS/MMS), corporate E-mail (for SonyTM and Sony Ericsson Android phones), Gmail (for all other Android smartphones) Calendar Notifications, FacebookTM, TwitterTM, Music Player, Call handling (call, mute, reject, or answer and send pre-defined SMS), Pre-defined SMS, e.g. missed calls – I’m busy, messaging – call me, email – ok, Battery strength, Find phone, and Weather widget. Plus lots of apps on AndroidTM market.

Additional SmartWatch bands available in pink, white, mint, grey and blue

For full details on all products news, please visit the press room and the product blog: http://blogs.sonymobile.com/products/. For full Android smartphone compatibility, please visit http://sonymobile.com/smartwatch

New smartwatch features daylight-readable e-paper display, iPhone and
Android compatibility, sports and fitness apps and 7+ day battery life

Palo Alto – Allerta, the company behind the inPulse smartwatch for Blackberry, today introduced the next generation Pebble smartwatch. It is the first smartwatch to offer full iPhone and iOS compatibility. Pebble features a 1.26″ electronic-paper display that delivers a crisp, high resolution text and images while enabling the watch to last for over 7 days on battery.

Pebble is the first watch built for the 21st century. It’s infinitely customizable, with beautiful
downloadable watchfaces and useful internet-connected apps. Pebble connects to iPhone and Android smartphones using Bluetooth 2.1, alerting you with a silent vibration to incoming calls, emails and messages. While designing Pebble, we strove to create a minimalist yet fashionable product that seamlessly blends into everyday life.

Many apps are being built to run on Pebble. Cyclists can use Pebble as a bike computer, accessing the GPS on a smartphone to display speed, distance and pace data. Runners get a similar set of data displayed on their wrist. The music control app allows users to play, pause or skip tracks on their smartphone with the touch of a button. Golfer can feel free to bring Pebble onto the course. Pebble has partnered with Freecaddie to create a great golf rangefinder app for Pebble that works on over 25,000 courses world-wide. Instead of looking at a smartphone app, golfers can view current distance to the green right on their wrist.

Multiple watchapps can run on the watch simultaneously. New watchapps can be downloaded and installed on Pebble using the Pebble App available for iOS 5+ and Android 2.3+ devices. Using the free and open Pebble SDK, developers can create their own watchapps that take advantage of the built-in 3-axis accelerometer, e-paper display, vibrating motor, 4 buttons and Bluetooth chip. Developers can also take advantage of the push notification system that Pebble uses to receive and transmit data to the internet.

Pebble is launching on Kickstarter on April 11, 2012. Prices start at $99. Pebble is available in 4 colors: Arctic White, Jet Black, Cherry Red, and a 4th color option that will be voted on by backers of the project. Pebble will retail for $149 when it goes on sale later this year.

Word on the street says Google is gearing up to launch a cloud service of some kind that could bring a host of new features to the desktop, but why wait on Google?

IDrive Online Backup has just released new free software – IDriveConnect – allowing users to access their Google Docs as if they were sitting in a regular folder on their computer. This allows for some simple yet extremely useful functionality:

– Drag-and-drop to easily upload and download within Windows Explorer
– Automatically convert popular document types to Google Docs format
– Share files and folders directly within IDrive Connect

Additionally, IDrive Connect has the option to save items in Google Docs directly to an existing IDrive account. Create an IDrive account and store up to 5GB of documents, and more, completely free of charge.

IDrive Connect is built on IDrive’s EVS platform
EVS is the foundation of IDrive Online Backup, a fast, flexible, and secure cloud storage platform. With public APIs available, developers can take advantage of those same features to create their own applications compatible with the IDrive family. Since EVS was developed in-house by the IDrive team, they are able to offer secure cloud storage at a more affordable rate than plans offered by competitors Carbonite and Mozy.

IDrive Online Backup is available for home and server editions of Windows and Mac OS X and for mobile devices in the Apple App Store and Android Market.