Nokia sells HERE maps to German car manufacturers for $2.8 billion
Nokia has announced the sale of its HERE maps business to a group of leading German automotive businesses, which includes Audi, BMW and Daimler. HERE sold for a price of $2.8 billion, resulting in a heavy loss on the $8.1 billion that Nokia paid when it bought the mapping business from Navteq back in 2008.
HERE maps will likely be used by the German car companies to expand on map and navigation services and accelerate the development of self-driving cars. Although Google may be grabbing most of the headlines, German car manufacturers have all been working on self-driving technologies at various levels, and HERE is likely to form the basis of new assistance systems which are key to fully autonomous vehicles.
Nokia’s real time mapping technology is also clearly quite useful for companies looking to implement improved on-demand services, such as traffic monitoring, and travel commerce analytics, which might result in companies and customers reducing their dependency on Google’s services.
“All carmakers are working toward providing amazing, new connected services, and only by collaborating and sharing data can we reach the critical mass to make real-time map updates a reality,” – HERE’s Pino Bonetti
Importantly for HERE’s existing customers, the Android mobile app will continue to run as normal. The technology used on over 80 percent of sat-nav systems in Europe and America that depend on HERE will also continue to operate independently from the new owners and the group will not be interfering with its operations.
The deal is expected to be finalized in the first half of 2016.
Sony’s IFA 2015 Press Conference is on September 2nd
Sony may have just announced its ‘super mid-range’ Xperia M5 and gargantuan C5 Ultra smartphones, but that doesn’t mean the Japanese electronics company is anywhere near finished updating its line-up of devices. While we believe that the Xperia Z5 will be unveiled at the IFA in Berlin next month, Sony has confirmed its presence at the trade show via a tweet sent by its Italian subsidiary.
E' confermato: il 2 settembre terremo una conferenza stampa da #SonyIFA per annunciarvi tante novità! pic.twitter.com/LOPiwjK4kd
— Sony Italia (@sonyitalia) July 27, 2015
According to the tweet, Sony will be holding a press conference at the IFA on September 2nd to announce ‘many new features.’ It’s thought that besides announcing its latest Xperia Z flagship, that Sony could also unveil a new smartwatch. Until then, it’s just a case of sitting back and waiting for the inevitable stream of leaks to appear. Besides the Xperia Z5, what would you like to see Sony unveil at the IFA next month?
Source: Sony Italia (Twitter)
Via: XperiaBlog
Come comment on this article: Sony’s IFA 2015 Press Conference is on September 2nd
Parrot scraps plans to bring its RNB 6 Android Auto head unit to general public after teaming up with car makers
For many of us that own cars that aren’t exactly modern, the idea of being able to buy Parrot’s RNB 6 aftermarket Android Auto infotainment unit that is also compatible with Apple’s CarPlay system was a dream. Sure, it wouldn’t have been cheap, but it would always be cheaper than having to buy a new car. Now it seems, that dream has been dashed.
After Parrot first unveiled the RNB 6 head unit at CES in January, we all thought it was just a matter of waiting for the device to become available to purchase so we could install in our current cars. Sadly, according to an update on the RNB 6 blog post, Parrot has announced that the RNB 6 infotainment system has been chosen by several car manufacturers for use in their next-generation cars and that the company (Parrot) no longer has plans to make it available to the general public via aftermarket channels. Basically, if your car doesn’t have the RNB 6 unit installed at the time of manufacture, you are out of luck.
“[July 2015 update] RNB6 project was showcased at CES Las Vegas in January 2015 (watch video below). This infotainment system was selected by several automakers who envision to integrate it in their next-generation car models next year and beyond. As of today there is no plan to sell RNB6 in Aftermarket channels as RNB6 embedded technologies require deep integration with car series and manufacturers.”
Parrot hasn’t revealed which car makers it is collaborating with, nor whether it plans on developing a different device to offer its disappointed fans. Regardless of which car makers it is collaborating with, though, it’s almost certain to not suit everyone’s tastes or financial means.
Come comment on this article: Parrot scraps plans to bring its RNB 6 Android Auto head unit to general public after teaming up with car makers
Apple Watch now works with August’s designer smart lock
Unlocking a door with your smartphone feels like the future, but you still have to fish something out of your pocket to do it. If you happen to own one of the Yves Behar designed August smart locks, however, you can open it with something on your wrist — an Apple Watch. You can now lock and unlock the device “with just a swipe and a tap” on a Watch, according to August. In addition, you can view a log of who has come and gone, and get a notification when someone locks or unlocks your door.
Using a smartwatch with a smart lock makes sense, and hopefully it’ll also solve some of the quibbles we had about August’s $250 lock. We found that it could take awhile to pair via Bluetooth LE using an iOS or Android smartphone, for instance, though it’s not clear if Watch will improve that situation much. Nevertheless, it’s one of the more useful apps we’ve seen on Apple Watch for the few people who’ve splurged for one so far. There’s no word on whether August will also support Android Wear devices.
Filed under:
Household, Wearables
Via:
Ubergizmo
Source:
August
Tags: apple watch, August, Designer, smart lock, smartwatch, yves behar
‘Super Mid-Range’ Sony Xperia M5 announced
Following its leak last week, Sony has today announced the Xperia M5, the successor to the Xperia M4 Aqua which comes with a more impressive camera. The Xperia M5 has a 5-inch Full HD display, waterproof omnibalance design and a new 21.5MP Hybrid Autofocus camera. Sony is dubbing this handset as a ‘super mid-range’ phone, presumably in a bid to set it between the mid-range and the high-end flagship tiers.
The Xperia M5 key specs include:
- Display: 5.0-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080 pixels, ~441 ppi density)
- SoC: 64-bit MediaTek Helio X10, 2.0GHz octa-core processor
- RAM: 3GB
- Storage: 16GB plus microSD expansion slot
- Main Camera: 21.5MP Hybrid autofocus camera, f/2.2 lens
- Front Camera: 13MP
- Battery: 2600 mAh
- OS: Android 5.0
- Dimensions: 145 x 72 x 7.6 mm
- Weight: 142.5 grams
The dual cameras are the key unique features for Sony’s latest mid-range handset and – on paper, at least – they certainly could be, especially compared to other cameras in the mid-range market. The camera reportedly uses a hybrid autofocus system to allow the handset to focus in a quarter of a second and also offers f/2.2 aperture and up to 3200 ISO. The 13MP front camera is what most phones usually have on the back but unlike the Xperia C5 Ultra that it was announced alongside, the Xperia M5 does not have a front selfie flash.
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The 64-bit octa-core Helio X10 should deliver in the performance department and is more than worthy of a mid-range handset while Sony claim that the modest 2600 mAh battery will keep the Xperia M5 ticking for two full days, although – as always – this is subjective to your actual usage.
Sony says the Xperia M5 will launch in emerging markets in the next few weeks and has yet to reveal how much it’ll cost and whether it will launch in western markets. On paper, the specs should appeal to most customers and Sony could gain by bringing this to developed markets at a reasonable price tag. The handset will be available in black, white and a blinging gold with actual availability likely to vary by market.
London, 3rd August 2015 – Sony Mobile Communications (“Sony Mobile”) today reveals two new smartphones with the introduction of Xperia C5 Ultra and Xperia M5 to its impressive range of devices. Offering advances in camera, design, battery and performance, the products support Sony’s leadership in the smartphone market.
“We are pleased to present two new products that highlight Sony’s advances in camera technology,” said Tony McNulty, Vice-President, Value Category Business Management at Sony Mobile Communications. “We understand that camera capabilities are important to smartphone users, so we ensured that Sony’s existing camera brilliance was once again surpassed in the new Xperia C5 Ultra and Xperia M5 without compromising on other features across design and performance.”
Xperia C5 Ultra – the all new PROselfie smartphone with two 13-megapixel cameras and an innovative near borderless 6” Full HD display
Starting with the Xperia C3, Sony Mobile has been the front runner to address the digital native’s need with our PROselfie offering. Xperia C5 Ultra incorporates an industry first twin 13-megapixel front and rear camera, which offers stunning high-resolution imagery. Whether you’re shooting incredible scenery or taking a selfie with friends, your images are always captured in crystal clear quality. Both cameras include Sony’s leading Exmor RS™ sensor, HDR for picture and video, and an easy to use preset Auto scene recognition mode that analyses and adjusts settings automatically to give the perfect results every time.
Selfies are also enhanced with the integration of Sony’s enhanced Selfie Flash that supports the front camera and lightens up more of the frame to ensure every part of your photograph’s beauty is captured. The device’s 22mm wide-angle lens also means that you can fit more in the frame. Unleash your creativity with a host of Selfie camera applicationsthat are available to download.
Xperia C5 Ultra provides a high quality viewing experience, with its large display, complete with a super-thin bezel for a near borderless display. The large 6” Full HD display with IPS featuring Sony’s TV technology Mobile BRAVIA® Engine 2 lets you enjoy your videos and pictures in the finest detail. A one-handed operation mode is also available to help you easily use the device with options for both right-handed and left-handed users.
With an aluminium frame and three colour variations, including black, white and a glossy soft mint, Xperia C5 Ultra offers a premium design, whilst allowing you to showcase your individual style. Sleek, stylish and a comfortable fit in the hand, Xperia C5 Ultra feels as good as it looks.
Performance is assured thanks to the advanced 1.7 GHz 64 bit Octa-core processor with 2GB RAM and 4G network support for a fast user experience. With the reliable up to two-day battery life(1), and up to 7 hours 47 minutes(2) of video playback, you will never have to worry about losing power during important moments. What’s more, Ultra STAMINA Mode optimises battery usage further to ensure it is used most effectively.
Xperia M5 – Sony camera brilliance packed in a premium waterproof(3) design
Following Xperia M4 Aqua’s success in raising the bar and defining the “super mid-range” with its camera leadership, Xperia M5 has an even more impressive 21.5MP rear camera that lets you snap extraordinary moments like a pro. When you can’t get near enough to your subject, 5x Clear Image Zoom allows you to get close without losing any quality.
With the power to capture videos in 4K, Xperia M5 offers the quality and performance of a compact digital camera. The result is sharp, clear and bright footage every time.
Sony’s camera brilliance doesn’t end there – Xperia M5 has a powerful 13MP front-facing ‘selfie cam’, which also comes with integrated autofocus and Full-HD video recording, so you can take exquisite selfies to share with friends and family.
What’s more, a host of camera applications elevate your selfies to the next level – including Face in picture, AR mask and Style portrait.
Boasting a sharp, bright and vivid 5” Full HD display, your favourite Sony entertainment will really come to life. Mobile BRAVIA® Engine 2 gives you enhanced sharpness and contrast for immersive viewing, whilst IPS ensures excellent viewing at any angle and accurate colours from edge to edge.
Unique like our flagship devices, Xperia M5 is also waterproof and dust-tight(3), with a capless USB port for added convenience and easy charging. With a waterproof smartphone, you don’t need to worry if your device gets dirty, just rinse it off under the tap. It is also protected against accidental splashes, so you can use your Xperia M5 under the rain or shine, wherever you are.
For beauty and perfection in every direction, Xperia M5 features Sony’s distinctive design with the OmniBalance style in a sleek premium glass finish on both sides. It is also designed for durability with stainless steel corners to protect against bumps.
Xperia M5 integrates a large 2,600mAh battery offering up to two-days battery life(1), so you don’t have to worry about charging your phone every day. An impressive 64-bit 2.0 GHz Octa-core processor powered by MediaTek Helio X10 with 3GB RAM provides amazing performance and speed to optimise your battery life. Meanwhile, ultra-fast smartphone connectivity is enabled with 4G, for quick downloading of audio and video content.
Both Xperia C5 Ultra and Xperia M5 also have an expandable memory with up to 200GB uSD card and the devices are available in both Single and Dual SIM variants. Xperia C5 Ultra and Xperia M5 will be available in selected countries across emerging markets from mid August.
Sony’s IFA conference to take place on September 2nd
Sony may have just released a couple of new mid-range smartphones, but the company still has a few secrets planned for IFA 2015, which will be taking place next month. Sony Italy has confirmed that the company’s press conference at the event will take place on September 2nd.
It is not clear at this stage exactly what Sony has planned for its press conference. Perhaps a new smartwatch and another smartphone are on the cards?
E’ confermato: il 2 settembre terremo una conferenza stampa da #SonyIFA per annunciarvi tante novità! pic.twitter.com/LOPiwjK4kd
— Sony Italia (@sonyitalia) July 27, 2015
Sony is expected to launch another flagship smartphone this year, which may mark a bigger change up to its Xperia Z flagship line than the Xperia Z4 (Z3+) that launched earlier in the year. But all we really have to go on so far is some third party PR material for an upcoming Bond film and some optimistic words from Sony about the future. We will just have to wait and see what Sony has planned.
There is still a while to go until IFA 2015, but we may begin hearing a few rumors in the build-up to the event. What would you like to see Sony announce?
Galaxy Tab S2 launches in South Korea on August 11
Samsung announced its new Galaxy Tab S2 tablets a couple of weeks ago and said they would launch in August and it looks like they’ll live up to this promise, with both Galaxy Tab S2 models set to launch in South Korea next week.
The Galaxy Tab S2 8.0 will cost KRW 599,000 (approx. $513), while the larger 9.7-inch model will cost KRW 719,000 ($685). Samsung will also sell the larger tablet with a bluetooth keyboard case for KRW 799,000 ($685) in South Korea but is yet to reveal availability of the tablet in other markets.
Related: Galaxy Tab S2 vs Galaxy Tab S: what’s changed?
The Galaxy Tab S2 was the subject of several leaks before it was announced and while the original Galaxy Tab S was one of the most advanced Android tablets ever made, the Galaxy Tab S2 has some interesting changes that include a supremely thin profile, a metal frame equipped with fingerprint sensor and a display that has 4:3 aspect ratio, which Samsung claim is designed for prolonged reading sessions.
Related: Opinion: Does the Galaxy Tab S2 have things going for it… or against?
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Both tablets feature pixel-rich Super AMOLED displays with 4:3 aspect ratio and 2048 x 1536 pixels resolution and are powered by an octa-core Exynos 5433 processor with 3GB RAM and 32GB internal storage. Other notable specs include a fingerprint sensor, an 8 megapixel rear camera, 2.1MP front facing snapper, LTE Cat 6 connectivity and the Android 5.0 Lollipop OS. Both tablets have relatively large batteries (that are smaller than the first Galaxy Tab S range) with the smaller Galaxy Tab S2 8.0 sporting a 4,000 mAh battery while the larger Galaxy Tab S2 9.7 has a 5,870 mAh battery.
Featured: Samsung Galaxy Tab S 8.4: one year later
It’s unknown when the Galaxy Tab S2 range will be made available outside of South Korea but with a launch in Samsung’s homeland next week, it won’t be long before it’s available elsewhere. Are you planning to buy one? Let us know your views in the comments below and if you’re considering last year’s Galaxy Tab S, check out our Galaxy Tab S 8.4 review – one year later.
Sony’s ‘Super Mid-Range’ Xperia M5 has a 21MP Rear Camera with super-quick Hybrid Focus
It’s only a couple of days since Sony tweeted that “something golden is sparkling on the horizon“, and here it is, the waterproof Xperia M5 with its 5-inch full HD display, 21MP rear camera and 13MP selfie camera. We have the specifications and more images after the break.
Unlike today’s other arrival, the C5 Ultra, the Xperia M5 runs on the latest silicon as well as being more comfortable to hold. Something that both handsets feature is Sony’s OmniBalance design language. Let’s see what else the Xperia M5 has to offer.
Specifications:
- Android 5.0 Lollipop
- 5-Inch Full-HD display (1920 x 1080)
- MediaTek MT6795 Helio X10 Octa-core processor @ 2.GHz (64-bit)
- IMG Rogue G6200 GPU
- 3GB RAM
- 16GB Internal storage
- MicroSD card support (up to 200GB)
- 21MP Rear camera (Exmor RS) with Hybrid Auto-Focus, 4K recording, LED flash and f/2.2 aperture.
- 13MP Front camera (Exmor RS) with Auto-Focus
- Networks: GSM, UMTS, LTE (depends on market)
- IP68/IP65 certified: Waterproof and dust tight
- Dimensions: 145 x 72 x 7.6mm
- Weight: 142.5 grams
- Battery: 2,600mAh
- Available in gold, black or white
While it carries a smaller display than the 6-inch C5 Ultra, the Xperia M5 more than makes up for it by using the latest MediaTek processor, a camera sensor with 21MP as well as being both waterproof and dust tight. Other than being aimed at the emerging markets, it’s unknown where exactly the Xperia M5 will be launched or how much it will sell for.
What do you think of the super mid-range (Sony’s words) Xperia M5? Is it the one for you or are you waiting to see what the Xperia Z5 will bring to the table in September?
Come comment on this article: Sony’s ‘Super Mid-Range’ Xperia M5 has a 21MP Rear Camera with super-quick Hybrid Focus
London’s police vans are getting fitted with CCTV
London’s police forces are adopting cameras and other recording equipment in earnest. Twenty-thousand officers are already in the process of receiving body-worn cameras and soon, every police van will be equipped with CCTV too. The initial target is to have at least one vehicle fitted with the technology — five cameras, three microphones and two monitors — in every London borough within the coming months. Roughly 120 vehicles have already been kitted out and the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) says all future vans will come with the gear as standard. Recording begins as soon as the ignition is switched on and all data is overwritten after 22 days. Should the footage be required as evidence in a trial, however, it can be downloaded from the system and stored for longer periods.
Capturing the moments after a person has been arrested and bundled into the back of a police van should, in theory, provide greater transparency about the Met’s day-to-day operations and, subsequently, improve public confidence. The equipment not only acts as a pre-emptive measure to discourage wayward police behaviour, but it could also help officers to prove their case should they ever feel they’ve been incorrectly accused.
[Image Credit: Martin Deutsch, Flickr]
Filed under:
Misc
Via:
getwestlondon
Source:
Metropolitan Police
Tags: cameras, cctv, monitoring, police, policevan, surveillance
Sony’s new mid-range phones take 13-megapixel selfies
These are dark days for Sony’s smartphone business. The division saw sales drop 16.3 percent over the past year, and is losing money faster than PlayStation is making it. The answer to this problem, according to Sony, is to release two new mid range smartphones to this month, the Xperia C5 Ultra and the Xperia M5. Both focus heavily on imaging, with the C5 Ultra offering two 13-megapixel Exmor RS cameras (one on the front, one on the back) that will hopefully capture some impressive shots. The front-facing camera has a 22m wide-angle lens for all your #welfie needs, and even a front-facing flash. Cameras aside, the C5 Ultra (pictured above) has a 1.7GHz octa-core processor, a 6-inch 1080p display, and a 2,930mAh battery that Sony claims is good for two days use.
The Sony Xperia M5.
The M5 is likely to be the snappier of the two, with a 2GHz MediaTek X10 processor paired with 3GB of RAM, a 5-inch 1080p display, and IP65/68 water- and dust-resistance. It bumps the main camera up to a 21.5-megapixel Exmoor RS sensor capable of shooting 4K video, and has the same 13-megapixel sensor at the front. Its 2,600mAh battery is apparently good for the same two days use as the C5 Ultra.
Both phones will run Android 5.0 Lollipop and include a microSD slot for expanded storage. They’ll be available later this month in various markets around the world, but pricing has yet to be announced. If this is all Sony has to offer this year, it’s unlikely to do much to reverse its fortunes. The IFA trade show just around the corner, though, and it’s historically a launchpad for Sony’s new mobiles and tablets. so we may see something more impressive from the company before the month is out.
Source:
Sony
Tags: mobilepostcross, selfie, sony, welfie, xperia
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