Sony Reader event October 2: New product coming?

Just got an invite to a Sony Reader event in New York on October 2. No word on whether this involves launching a next-gen electronic book reader or just promoting some new capabilities for the current model, the Reader Digital Book PRS-505, as we head into the holiday buying season.

Either way it seems clear that Sony isn't quite ready to cede the e-book market to Amazon's Kindle. Sony's got the better design, but the wireless download capabilities of the Kindle clearly give it an advantage. Anybody wanna predict what Sony's next move is?

Via Crave CNET

HP EliteBook hits 24-hour battery life

Not long after Dell wowed us with the Latitude E6500 and its 19-hour battery life, HP is quick to follow by declaring that the EliteBook 6930p can run the course of an entire day (24 hours) on a single charge.

But a quick disclaimer. Both models require LED-backlit displays and SSD storage options, which can raise the price by over S$1,500 (US$1,054.26). In addition, the Latitude requires the S$232.19 (US$163.19) nine-cell battery combined with a S$444.05 (US$312.10) Extended Battery Slice. The HP is a little more pocket friendly in this aspect and needs only the addition of the external Ultra-Capacity Battery (which is available only in certain Asia-Pacific markets for US$189) to complement the bundled six-cell. Another factor to consider is that the claimed battery life is unlikely to take into account Wi-Fi consumption and other computing loads.

So with a 5-hour lead over the Latitude E6500, is getting an EliteBook a no brainer? Well, not really. If you are a frequent flyer who needs a laptop to survive the rigors of travel, then the semi-rugged EliteBook is perfect. However, for those requiring a larger screen and discrete Nvidia Quadro graphics, then the 15.4-inch Latitude is the one to go for. Furthermore, the Latitude can also be equipped with an FIPS (Federal Information Processing Standard) fingerprint reader for even more security.

The EliteBook 6930p starts at S$2,800 (US$1,967.95) and is available in stores throughout Asia.

DisplayLink powers new Sony notebook dock

DisplayLink has just announced that its network display technology is now available in the new Sony VAIO USB Docking Station VGP-UPR1.
The DisplayLink technology that allows users to connect multiple monitors to their systems via USB 2.0 is embedded in the docking station. The dock is compatible with Sony VAIO notebooks as well as other notebooks that have USB 2.0 connections. This could be useful for mobile users and travelers that have the rather rare and unique need of using more than one monitor to do their work.
Read more »

iBikeConsole: Get a grip on your tunes

Two activities that don't generally mesh well: Ripping down a bumpy bike trail and toggling between songs on an iPod.

TigraSport's new iBikeConsole makes it easier to juggle those actions by letting bikers change iPod nano selections and adjust volume without removing their hands from the handlebars. We're not sure why this product is exclusive to the Nano, but we still like its emphasis on safer riding.

Basically, the device acts as a docking station for the iPod while providing a weatherproof and shockproof case. It also combines a remote control system with a cycle computer so riders can monitor their distance and speed while listening to their tunes.
Read more »

Sony recalls VAIO TZ laptops

According to a report by CNET News.com, Sony has initiated a recall of some VAIO TZ laptops due to the possibility of overheating. This is due to some wiring and screw issues at the hinge of the notebook which may result in short circuits.

This recall affects VAIO with model numbers VGN-TZ1x, VGN-TZ2x and VGN-TZ3x. A Sony representative has commented that this is a precautionary measure to prevent the possibility of burns due to overheating. As such, owners are advised to contact their regional Sony support centers or check the online Web support for more information. Even if the units are out of warranty, affected VAIOs will be diagnosed and repaired without charge.

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