Archive for June, 2008

Aero Shooting Game Aeronauts: official service starts in September

Monday, June 30th, 2008

Aero Shooting Game Aeronauts
Aeronauts has been conducting a CBT and is being served to users in approx 200 countries through base servers all around the world including Tokyo, Singapore, LA, London, Frankfurt, etc., which resolved the issue regarding the subject of whether or not the game will stimulate user access.

A program developer, Jeein Kim of JCE publishing developing team, stated the following popular facts regarding Aeronaut: (1) piloting an airplane is what anyone would like to do, even though the control in the air is not familiar to them, (2) the tutorial mode for users and the advanced mouse control of the game will assist the user, and (3) the team match above level 4, will ensure that the user becomes more familiar to controlling the game.

Now is time for a better service operating system for the game. We talked to Jeein Kim about the future service plan of Aeronauts.

What is “Aeronauts” in brief? In short, Aeronauts is a ‘dynamic flying action’ game. That’s exactly what the game is. You can see all the game features from the tutorial, which contains various missions so as to make users understand the feeling of flying and controls in Aeronauts. Once establishing the fundamentals of the game through the tutorial, the user can enjoy more dynamic flying actions in the real game environment. For example, an enemy flight will pass right before you or you pass an enemy with accurate controlling to catch them at a shooting distance, which gives you more thrills in these air matches.

What is the feature of “Aeronauts”? Once you reach level 4, you can make a team and join a battle, which will give you access to the real features Aeronauts. The team match allows up to 3 on 3 battles. The higher the level, the more features for flying and more attack weapons are accessible. At these levels, users will feel sweat in their hands, even feeling the adrenalin coming out! I am also like these users.

Instead of fighting against enemies, there are other game modes like catching NPC or collecting balloons, etc.

What were some of the good and bad user feedback received during a global service? Mostly we received good comments on the game. There were also great feedbacks from overseas game related forums or communities. In general, we were told that the feeling of flying or the mandatory components for flying are dynamic and great, and there was a high level of satisfaction regarding the game stories, world aspects and even on plane designs.

On the other hand, some negative comments were made regarding the slow process of some story lines in episodes and the lack of planes at times. We are planning to address these issues with future patches.

Is there any differences with some of game features in Korea where the service started first, with the game features being served through a GSP? There was no user mentioning the dizziness during the game when accessed through a GSP. In fact, Korea was the first place for serving Aeronauts. But, there were some comments on dizziness when playing the game in Korea.

The eyesight was initially developed to follow the mouse pointer, and that the flying screen was applied to the mouse immediately, which we believe, caused dizziness to some gamers. Thus, we made the changing speed of the screen a little bit slower when chasing the target to solve this problem. The results now have been very successful. For example, there are no uncomfortable issues regarding the eyesight when turning the mouse to control the plane and the movement of the plane on the screen has become smoother.

How about a strategy to overseas marketing through a GSP? Recently there are many users from Germany, France, and Brazil via the GNG (Game and Game) site. Through this, users from other countries can enjoy the game through a GSP service. But it depends on the Internet infrastructures of each country as to whether the game service will go smoothly or not. We are currently focusing on network issues and/or language packages for the overseas market.

We also believe that content updates are also very important. Current contents are around level 30 and the update status is about 70%.

How will you solve the localizing issue in a GSP? Content language packs are an important factor, but the Aeronauts content is not limited to a specific area. As such, we don’t believe that particular localizing will be a huge issue in Aeronauts, as the structure of the game is not limited to certain countries.

Lastly, what are the future plans for Aeronauts? We are trying to get feedback from our users about the recent update version, so that we can then reflect their opinions to further updates for the game. The most important issue at this point is developing new contents and making a reliable service. We are planning to open the official service of the game in mid September of this year.

Written by Daniel for Product Reviews
In Sections: Gaming
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PS3 In-game XMB demonstration

Monday, June 30th, 2008

in-game-XMB-demo

A new video has been released over on the official PS3 blog which gives us all a detailed look at the long awaited in-game XMB that is due to be released in the upcoming 2.40 firmware.

Eric Lempel who is the director for the PSN, shows us how he is able to navigate the XMB whilst having GT5:P paused in the background. It all looks very slick as he browses through all of the menus in the XMB, while taking time to surf through his messages. It seems to be the update all PS3 fans have been waiting for, as a PS3 owner myself, I had often found it very frustrating to have to go out of game to read a message whilst playing COD4 online, this update looks to have solved that problem completely, which will please a lot of you I’m sure.

He also demonstrates the ability to play your own music from the hard-drive whilst in game, another feature that has been on the top of some of your wish-lists. He did not go into detail on ‘trophies’ which is another new feature due to be on the 2.40 firmware, but as you can see in the video, there is already an icon for it, and another video is due to be released with more information on this.

This new firmware is looking very impressive indeed,check out the full video below.. hopefully it isn’t too long before we get our hands on the new firmware ourselves, stay tuned to hear more information.

Source: Read

Written by Alan for Product Reviews
In Sections: Gaming, Sony Playstation 3
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Alternative to HTPC: Mvix MX-780HD Wireless HD Media Center

Monday, June 30th, 2008

Mvix MX-780HD Wireless HD Media Center
This is the Mvix MX-780HD Wireless HD Media Center and it’s a good choice if you’re looking for an alternative to HTPC. If you are looking for a way to get your digital media collection to play easily and with no issues on your big TV set, then you would want to get close with the MX-780HD.

With the ability to play most video formats natively and compatibility with both wired and wireless networks, it is a dream come true. Tweak Town have covered a six-page review of this gadget and in their final thoughts they said, “When it comes to displaying your digital media content, there are several ways to get the job done. Unfortunately, unless you go out and purchase a software package that is designed for converting this content to a DVD disk, most of your choices will end up with the watching of movies on your computer. Granted, many modern displays for the PC are getting larger and have better quality, but if you are like most folks, your PC is not in the immediate vicinity of your primary television.

Enter Mvix USA with a product that not only plays your content and natively supports a vast majority of the conversion methods currently in use, it also gives you enough power and flexibility to actually take the place of an HTPC system. All this plus the ability to connect to your home network to stream media is a very nice package rolled into one convenient box.

Additionally, the 780HD has its own operating system installed and is compatible with home PC systems using Windows XP/Vista, Linux and Mac OSX. This means that even if you don’t happen to be a Windows person, you’re not being left out in the dark. Also of note is that the OS in question is based on the Linux kernel, which means you can be assured of a reliable medium for your media center.

Major improvements made from the older 760 series include the support of SATA drives (but still keeping support for PATA drives) and the inclusion of the HDMI output method. While the support of newer drives is a nice addition, I truly looked forward to seeing the HDMI output in action. It goes without saying that I was pleased with it. Upconverting movies worked flawlessly on the fly and without any stuttering of the video or audio streams.

As far as cost is concerned, the MSRP is listed at $349US, but the 780HD can be found at online stores for closer to the $320 mark. While not a cheap addition to your entertainment center, it is still a lot cheaper than building your own HTPC to handle the same tasks. An added HDMI cable would have been nice, but you can pick them up online for just a few bucks”.

Read the six page review.

Written by Daniel for Product Reviews
In Sections: Audio & Video Gadgets, Gadgets & Technology
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Want 3G Apple iPhone in Australia, 3 Network launches petition

Monday, June 30th, 2008


If you live in countries like the U.S., UK, Germany and other parts of Europe then you will all be looking forward to the arrival of the new Apple 3G iPhone. However; if you live in Australia and are on the 3 Mobile Network, then the sad news is, you will not get the chance to get your hands on this latest handset. You can choose to go on to Optus and Vodafone in Australia, but that is no good if you prefer 3.

Well Three have launched a new petition and would like for you to register your interest in the new 3G iPhone, and they hope to show Apple how much their customers want the hottest new cell phone. The launch of the new handset will be locked to specific carriers, so if you are a 3 or Telstra network customer, then you will not be able to use the 3G iPhone without a third-party hack, and that still might not work.

Director of sales at 3, Noel Hamill, has said that since Apple announced that the new 3G version of their handset will be coming to Australia, they have been inundated with queries from customers who would like to purchase this latest device. He stated “We’ve engaged Apple to get the 3G iPhone but at this stage we haven’t been able to range it, so I don’t know if we’re going to be able to range it.”

It does seem a very strange decision on Apple’s part not to include 3 in Australia for the 3G iPhone, as 3’s parent, Hutchison will be getting the device in Hong Kong and Macau.

If you would like the Apple 3G iPhone to become available on Three in Australia, then register your interest Here.

Written by Peter for Product Reviews
In Sections: Cell & Mobile Phones, Handsets
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Rogers Wireless not to offer iPhone 3G unlimited data plans

Monday, June 30th, 2008


As you know in just a few days time, we will be able to get our hands on the new 3G Apple iPhone. Most network carriers around the world have adopted the unlimited data pricing structure, but we are surprised to learn that Canada’s Rogers Wireless has decided not to join in the unlimited data pricing structure party.
The guys over at Phones Review learned of this and decided to explain to us as to why Rogers Wireless has made this decision, well in their own unique way.

They have come to the conclusion that Rogers Wireless does not see themselves as just another Apple iPhone 3G supplier. Why else would they not adopt the unlimited data plans, which does seem the way to go. It seems as if Rogers Wireless does not care about their customers, with that in mind we could see them losing a bundle of 3G Apple iPhone sales.

So why would Rogers Wireless have gone against what other carriers are doing, well there has to be one simple answer to that, and that is they wish to earn as much profit from Canadian iPhoners as possible. Why else would they not want to provide a decent service and give customers what they want? Fido are also not offering the unlimited data plans, so if you are a Canadian iPhone user, then looks as if you are getting a raw deal.

The sad fact of the matter is those of live in Canada and wish to own a 3G Apple iPhone, have no choice but to put up with this terrible decision from Rogers Wireless and Fido. If I was one of you I would not get the new handset, make these guys sweat a little and maybe they might just change their minds.

Written by Peter for Product Reviews
In Sections: Cell & Mobile Information, Cell & Mobile Phones
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Diablo 3 Debut Gameplay Teaser Trailers and artwork

Monday, June 30th, 2008


A few days ago we spoke about the rumors that were surrounding Blizzard and about the rumors surrounding Diablo 3. Well it looks as though all those rumors which started of from a Splash Screen were in fact true. It seems as if Diablo 3 is coming and those guys over at Game Trailers have gone made and are treating us to a huge amount of content to wet our appetite.

The new game is going to be massive, which is why Game Trailers are giving us a huge amount of debut gameplay teaser trailers, as well as some cool looking artwork. There seems to be something for everyone, here is a list of just some of the gameplay teaser trailers and artworks that you can watch.

Debut Teaser, It has been said that in the end of all things you would find a new beginning. Debut Gameplay Trailer, this is 19 minutes of gameplay thick with the stench of ghouls. Debut Artwork Trailer , Here you can Enter Diablo 3’s fantastic gallery. Barbarian Cleave Gameplay, When the odds are stacked against you, this powerful strike is your equalizer. Barbarian Ground Stomp Gameplay, Send your enemies into daze by shaking the very earth beneath their feet.

The we also have Witch Doctor Fire Bomb Gameplay, Incinerate the undead with the explosive flames of this Witch Doctor special. Witch Doctor Soul Harvest Gameplay, Unbeknown attackers beware, your very life hangs in the balance, and you won’t realize it until its too late.

These are just a sample of all the latest trailers and videos from the new Diablo 3 game from Blizzard, and more are being added all the time.

Written by Peter for Product Reviews
In Sections: Game Video & Trailers, Gaming, Online Games
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Nokia 7610 Supernova fashion phone expected Q3 2008

Monday, June 30th, 2008


When it comes to fashion cell phones, the Supernova from Nokia is right up there on people lists. Well the flagship from that the range, the Nokia 7610 Supernova is expected in Q3 2008. The phone sports a 3.2 megapixel camera with dual LED flash and autofocus. The camera can also capture VGA resolution video clips with up to 15 frames per second.

The Nokia 7610 Supernova is a capable media phone, thanks to such features as an FM radio and its multi media player, there is also an AV connector and TV output. All these features does add to the greatness of the phone, but there is no getting away from the fact that it is just another piece of fashion accessory, the mirrored surfaces as well as the interchangeable covers proves this. If you get bored with the look of your phone, then this is a way to keep your 7610 looking fresh.

When it comes to features on a new phone, the Nokia 7610 Supernova has one vital thing missing, and that is 3G. It seems that if you want your new handset to be able to compete now, it is 3G that most people are looking for. This handset does support EDGE date; this is all fine as long as your carrier uses it.

There is another downside to this phone its price, at €225 (around £180 / $360) before tax and subsidy, it’s not cheap. If you think about it, this new phone puts is in the same price bracket as a Nokia N81 and Nokia N77, and both of these have 3G; however these do not have a good quality camera like the Nokia 7610 Supernova.

So if you want a phone that is the perfect fashion accessory, then the Nokia 7610 Supernova is the perfect handset for you.

Source

Written by Peter for Product Reviews
In Sections: Cell & Mobile Phones, Handsets
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Xbox 360 content license DRM Transfer Tool not that simple

Monday, June 30th, 2008


As promised Microsoft has now launched the new DRM Transfer Tool, this great new tool will allow gamers to consolidate your Xbox 360 content licenses. This piece of news will have so many gamers shouting in delight from their rooftops. So what makes this new DRM Transfer Tool so great, well say you have upgraded your Xbox from a Core to a Premium or Elite model, or maybe you might have had to change your profile to another system, to be able to play licensed content like the games on Xbox Live Arcade, the new machine would require you to be connected to the Internet.

However; with this new DRM toll, this stops that, but you have to remember that the tool can only be used once a year. To access the new tool you have to go to www.xbox.com/en-US/drm. According to Microsoft, the process only tales a minute, for those of you who might have trouble understanding how to use the tool, Microsoft have a great video of Major Nelson showing us how it is done.

The downside that I can see to this new tool though is, only being able to use the DRM Transfer Tool once every twelve months. So you might have just used this tool on your new Xbox, and then your system breaks down yet again, this mean you are completely screwed. You would have thought that Microsoft would have set it for at least every 90 days or something

Also consider that if you have downloaded a huge amount of content, then you will have a couple of hours of downloading to go through, once you have transferred your license you then have to go to each item on your console and then download it again. Just think about that for a moment, say you have about 500 pieces of content that means that you will have to go into 500 menus and download 500 pieces of content manually. Oh well looks as though this new tool is not as simple as we first thought.

Written by Peter for Product Reviews
In Sections: Gaming, Xbox 360
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Rhapsody to launch assault on Apple iTunes: while embracing iPod

Monday, June 30th, 2008


When it comes to digital downloads there is only one big boy in town for most people, and that is Apple iTunes. Will it looks like they are about to face an assault from the likes of Rhapsody, as this digital music reseller is about to launch a $50 million assault on Apple’s download service. Rhapsody will be offering songs available to download online via partners who include Yahoo Inc and Verizon Wireless.

According to Reuters, the songs which are available for download will be in MP3 format, so if you are using the Rhapsody service you will be able to play them on iPods. This is a new move from Rhapsody, as they only used to focus on a subscription service. This allowed people access to unlimited song streaming for $13 to $15 a month, unlike the download service which Apple does.

Rhapsody, which is jointly, owned by Real Networks Inc and Viacom Inc’s MTV Networks will have a tough time on their hands to take on the might that is iTunes. Rhapsody Vice President Neil Smith has said “The fact the service has not been compatible with Apple Inc’s top-selling iPod digital player has limited Rhapsody’s reach.” He also added “We’re no longer competing with the iPod, we’re embracing it.”

Rhapsody will have some great help along the way though, as it will be the music store back-end to MTV’s music Web sites as well as iLike, this is one of the most used applications that is used on the social networking site Facebook. Rhapsody will also be available on cell phones via the Verizon Wireless VCAST Music service; it looks as though Rhapsody is launching this assault on iTunes from every angle. If a buyer has purchased that song over-the-air on to their mobiles, they will then be able to transfer it on to their computer, which can then be transferred on to their MP3 player, or iPod.

Rhapsody is not the only player to try and launch an assault on Apple’s iTunes, who have a 70 percent-plus market share of U.S. digital music sales. Just last month Napstar launched an MP3 store, and last year Amazon.com Inc and Wal-Mart Stores Inc both launched music download stores. However; as yet none of these has made a dent in the market share of iTunes, so will Rhapsody be any different.

Written by Peter for Product Reviews
In Sections: News
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OZAKI’s iMini Pet: works with all generation Apple iPod

Monday, June 30th, 2008

OZAKI iMini Pet
The World first iMini Pet Music speaker show cased in this year Taipei Computex, Specially designed to work with all generation iPod under apple authorized license. The iMini Pet comes in a cute pet figuring like design made by OZAKI. This unique gadget has attracted many Apple dealers and consumers world wide.

iMini Pet is a great combination of entertainment device, it come with five lovely models, Jazz Panda(IP109) always black and white, Rock Lion(IP118) got same rock DNA with Job Steve, Rap Frog(IP101) nonstop rapper, Classical Bear(IP103) same image color as Pink iPod Nano, and House Dog(IP110) always not at home, for different types of music lover. It has MIC-in and line-in input interface to receive audio signal and active iMini Pet body movement. The most attractive point is that iMini Pet can follow the music to dance, sing, swing hands. Indeed, iMini Pet Speaker has 5*7 snooze alarm clock system, iPod/FM radio Auto on/off clock with iPod/radio function, 2.52” Back-light LCD display and power recharge for all iPod generation.

iMini Pet receives a lot of attention and many inquiries from Euro & US for the up coming Christmas season during this year’s Taipei Computex. OZAKI has the confidence that the iMini Pet will be receiving great market demand and continue to grow its sales figure right through next year.

You can read more information about the iMini Pet on ozaki.us, Let us know what you think of OZAKI’s new gadget and is this the kind of gift you would give this holiday season?

Written by Daniel for Product Reviews
In Sections: Audio & Video Gadgets, Gadgets & Technology
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