Technology News Archives

It’s Time for the Annual International CES

Yes fellow gadget enthusiasts, it was that time of year again for the 2008 International CES conference that was held, January 7-10 in Las Vegas. Sin city was the place to have been to learn of the new innovations and technologies for consumer electronics.

Not all parties involved with the conference are announcing products that the regular layperson can’t afford. Telecommunications companies like Comcast, DISH and more, were on hand the first day to unveil some of their new digital video recording (DVR) devices that are newer and more sophisticated than last year’s models.

Visit the International CES site for more information.

Time Warner Cable will begin offering Look Back in the fall of 2007, a new feature that allows its customers to watch, record, rewind and fast forward their favorite shows at no cost.

Unlike DVR services, Look Back and its sister feature Start Over do not allow consumers to fast forward through commercials, and do not provide a library to store viewed content. But without the hassle of equipment set up, and the convenience and ease of recording a plethora of shows without the viewer having to set reminders, both of these features deliver unique interactive experiences. With Look Back, a Time Warner customer can view certain TV shows later in the day that they air, anytime prior to midnight.

"Many customers do fast-forward through commercials when given the choice, and that is an obvious and undeniable benefit of a digital video recorder," said Peter Stern, executive vice president for new product development at Time Warner Cable. "But the digital video recorder is principally about enabling customers to watch what they want, when they want. It returns control to customers over the television schedule."

Start Over delivers a similar user-friendly, free service to Time Warner customers, and began its test launch in South Carolina in 2005. Operating with more than 100 channels, Start Over automatically creates temporary recordings. If a customer switches to one of these stations in the middle of a show, he or she is able to view it from the beginning. A half-hour show, for instance, can be viewed anytime within 30 minutes of when it started.

Both features function as a basic DVR, but unlike Tivo and other similar technologies, Time Warner is offering both Look Back and Start Over without any monthly obligation or fee. In addition to South Carolina, Start Over is currently available in San Antonio, TX; Greensboro, NC and Rochester, NY, with plans for continued expansion in 2007 and 2008.

As more mobile users rely on text messages to communicate everyday, law enforcement professionals are trying to find ways to put the technology to good use in the fight against crime. In fact, the Boston Police Department recently announced the launch of a text message based tip line that they are saying is the first of it's kind. The new Crime Stoppers tip line, designed by Hill Holliday and powered by VeriSign, will enable Boston residents to anonymously provide information about crimes that may help police make their communities safer.

The new program allows the Boston Police Department to engage residents in a voluntary community-wide effort to reduce the number of violent crimes. Mobile users in North America currently send more than 650 million text messages each day, and according to M:Metrics, the most active texters are young adults (ages 18 - 24) with more than 70 percent sending text messages every month.

"The City of Boston is excited to introduce this new and innovative approach to the Boston Police Department's Crime Stoppers program. We are confident that the anonymity of the text function coupled with the sophisticated outreach program will inspire individuals to provide police with helpful, investigative tips," said Boston Police Commissioner, Edward Davis.

VeriSign powers the Boston Crime Stoppers text messaging platform, provisioned the C-R-I-M-E short code, and manages the system's user interface. While the technology behind it is complicated, concerned citizens can use it by simply texting the word "tip" to C-R-I-M-E (27463).

The text messages will be channeled to a police department interface, with the VeriSign system masking all personal identifiable information (e.g. mobile phone numbers) before sending any information to the police department. Through the interface, the Boston Police Department can immediately exchange messages with the tipster to obtain information about the crime and the details necessary to respond rapidly.

"The Boston Police Department has shown extraordinary vision by taking a rapidly growing communications trend and making it work for the benefit of their community," said Oliver Holle, Vice President of Mobile Applications, VeriSign. "Enabling secure communication is one of our core strengths at VeriSign. We are excited to be a part of such an innovative and relevant program, made possible by collaboration with Boston law enforcement and Hill Holliday."

For more information, check out the press release.

The average U.S. household owns 25 consumer electronics (CE) products and the average adult spends $1,200 annually on these products according to a study released today by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA®). The 9th Annual Household and Teen CE Ownership and Market Potential Study also revealed the most owned CE products and tracks the growth rates of popular product categories.

The top five growth sectors were digital video recorders (DVRs), network routers or hubs, MP3 players, cable modems and digital cameras. DVR ownership and network/routers in U.S. households grew eight percentage points since 2006 to 25 and 30 percent respectively. Thirty-two percent of households now own an MP3 player, up seven percentage points since last year. Cable modem ownership grew six percentage points and digital camera ownership rose to 62 percent of all U.S. households.

"It's interesting to note here that two of the fastest movers and shakers in the CE industry are devices that enable home networking," said CEA Senior Research Analyst Elena Caudle. "The other three products enable consumers to create, shift or transport digital content. As consumers continue to embrace digital technology this new convergence will continue to change the way Americans live, work and play."

Other categories with significant growth include HDTV with penetration reaching a quarter of U.S. homes. More than three-quarters of U.S homes have at least one cell phone; CEA estimates 178.5 million wireless phones are in use. DVD players have reached 84 percent household penetration and have surpassed VCRs, partially because of the availability of portable DVD players.

In addition to identifying top growth categories, the study reveals the five most owned products beginning with the television (92 percent), DVD player or recorder, VCR (82 percent), cordless phone (82 percent) and the cellular phone (76 percent).

"Many of the top owned products have enjoyed mass market saturation for years and will likely see growth based on upgrade and replacement sales. Some of the more intriguing categories are those that still occupy niche markets, such as mobile CE devices like GPS systems and satellite radio, which have seen healthy growth in the past few years," said Caudle.

The study also sets out the spending habits of consumers by age demographics. While adults spend $1,200 annually on CE products, teens spend $350 each year which is about half of their total annual discretionary income. Adults with children and teens spend up to $500 more on CE purchases than the national average.

"This is excellent news for the industry as children and teens who currently influence household CE purchase decisions grow up to become the next generation's early adopters," said Caudle.

9th Annual Household and Teen CE Ownership and Market Potential Study (April 2007) was conducted in February 2007. It was designed and formulated by CEA Market Research, the most comprehensive source of sales data, forecasts, consumer research and historical trends for the consumer electronics industry.

For more information, check out the CEA press release.

Dell recently announced that Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) will become the first corporate partner of its 'Plant a Tree for Me' program through a $16,000 donation on behalf of the company's 16,000 worldwide employees.

"We applaud AMD for its extraordinary leadership and commitment to building on the enthusiasm of the program," said Tod Arbogast, director of Dell Sustainable Business. "The company's generous contribution is a clear example of industry's ability to join together, take proactive steps and make a difference for the environment."

Dell's non-profit partners, The Conservation Fund and Carbonfund.org, also reported that initial customer interest and donations have made possible the planting of more than 20,000 trees that over their lifetime will help sequester 38 million pounds of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

"Addressing global climate change is one of the great challenges of the 21st century," said Larry Vertal, senior strategist, AMD Green. "AMD is committed to reducing impacts through leadership in energy-efficient computing, sustainable manufacturing, and industry and government partnerships like this one with Dell's innovative 'Plant a Tree for Me' program. We share Dell's commitment to partnering with businesses and consumers to protect the global environment for future generations."

When launched in January, the program enabled Dell customers to offset the carbon impact of their notebook computer use for $2 and desktop system use for $6. Last month, Dell expanded the program to include U.S.-based consumers and businesses with no product purchase required and for an extended portfolio of IT products. Dell also recently introduced 'Plant a Tree for Me' in the virtual world Second Life to help raise awareness of the importance of climate stewardship and provide a way for participants to link back to the program's Web site.

"Through 'Plant a Tree for Me,' Dell is harnessing and consolidating the enthusiasm of businesses and consumers who want to be a part of a solution-oriented process," said Eric Carlson, executive director of Carbonfund.org. "We are delighted to welcome AMD and its employees as partners in this process."

In addition to climate stewardship, Dell says it makes continual improvements to its design, manufacturing and administrative facilities around the globe, and partners with a number of stakeholders to help set environmental policies. The company remains the only computer manufacturer to offer consumers free and convenient product recycling around the world, irrespective of product purchase. Earlier this week, the company joined with the Environmental Protection Agency and the National Recycling Coalition to host a free recycling event for consumers in Washington, D.C.

The company hosts two Web sites, Dell IdeaStorm and StudioDell to provide customers the opportunity to share their own ideas and feedback. Dell also recently launched Dell Earth, a comprehensive online resource that provides in-depth information about the company's environmental programs and policies.

For more information, check out the Dell press release.

The AT&T Foundation—the philanthropic arm of AT&T—and the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) recently unveiled 32 locations that will house new community technology centers in low-income Hispanic communities through LULAC's Empower Hispanic America with Technology initiative. The centers, which are planned to be operational by the end of May, are being supported by a $1.5 million grant that builds upon the success of the AT&T Foundation's $1 million grant to LULAC in 2004.

"In addition to creating 32 new technology centers, the funds will also enable us to maintain 23 current locations established under the previous grant," said LULAC National President Rosa Rosales. "More than 55,000 Latinos received access and instruction on computer technology through AT&T's support in 2004, and we expect this new grant to more than double the number of people we can help."

The grant to LULAC is a part of AT&T AccessAll, a three-year $100 million philanthropic initiative to provide technology access to underserved communities. It will provide each new facility with computer equipment, personnel support, high-speed Internet service and videoconferencing. Eight of the new centers will be housed in LULAC National Educational Service Centers (LNESC), and 24 will be implemented at non-LNESC locations.

Clients served by the community technology centers are low-income and/or first-generation Hispanic-American youth and adults. While a higher percentage of Hispanics are employed compared with any other ethnic group (64 percent employment rate versus 63 percent for the next highest, Current Population Survey, April 2006), Hispanics are far more likely than the average American to be among the working poor. In addition, according to a new study by Pew Hispanic Center, 53 percent of Hispanics who are not online say this is because they do not have access. Empower Hispanic America with Technology is aimed at combating these inequities by giving Hispanics the necessary skills, and access, to compete in today's technology-driven workplaces.

"In today's digital world, the impact of connecting underserved communities with technology resources is immeasurable as we look at economic mobility," said Sonya Medina, director of the AT&T Foundation. "Our support for the Empower Hispanic America with Technology initiative reflects AT&T's commitment to strengthening education and community development opportunities through technology."

The LULAC-affiliated centers provide access to and instruction on modern computer technology in addition to assistance with resumes, college application preparation, GED preparation, financial aid research, and online citizenship services and job-search programs. Program participants use high-speed Internet access, computer equipment and basic office applications software to develop job skills, research career options, educational opportunities and other resources.

AT&T's signature AccessAll initiative is a landmark three-year $100 million philanthropic initiative that connects families and communities with technology tools that can improve lives. The program will provide technology access, tools and training to low-income families, underserved communities and the organizations that work to strengthen communities.

AT&T and the AT&T Foundation support efforts that enrich and strengthen diverse communities nationwide, particularly initiatives with an emphasis on education and technology and those that benefit underserved populations. Since 1996, the AT&T Foundation has contributed more than $40 million in grants to organizations serving Hispanic communities across the country.

For a complete list of locations receiving assistance, check out the AT&T press release.

TiVo is partnering with One True Media, a web-based service for creating and sharing video montages, to offer consumers the ability to easily share personal video content—incorporating their own digital videos and photos right to the TV.

You can now visit www.onetruemedia.com to create a digital video montage, complete with soundtrack, by uploading videos and photos and taking advantage of the site's simple editing tools. To share the montage, you create your own personal channel with TiVo, and then invite TiVo subscribers of your choosing to "subscribe" to the channel at no additional cost. TiVo users can then select a TiVo Season Pass™ recording that automatically adds the your latest videos to the their "Now Playing" list ??? the same location where they access all of their favorite television recordings.

TiVo says these easy-to-create-and-share video montages are ideally suited to all kinds of occasions: sharing a baby's first steps or child's birthday party; creating a tribute to Mom, Dad or grandparents; graduation; sharing post-game sports highlights with the team; or chronicling your summer vacation.

"TiVo continues to put convenience and control into the hands of consumers and we are pleased to offer our subscribers yet another easy-to-use, exclusive feature that brings a very personal touch to their TiVo experience," said Katie Ho, Vice President of Consumer Marketing at TiVo. "Rather than posting on public sites or huddling around a computer screen, people can now enjoy these special and personal moments on the best screen in the house???in the living room."

"One True Media has given people an exciting and fun way to make impressive video montages; now we're offering an ultra simple way for their friends and family to watch them on a big screen??? just like they would watch 24 or American Idol,'" said Mark Moore, CEO, One True Media. "We're thrilled that this relationship allows our users to benefit even more from this compelling new way to share life's greatest moments."

This new home movie sharing feature is accessible at no additional cost to the viewer. The ability to receive and view these videos is available free to 1.5 million broadband-ready TiVo Series2™ and TiVo Series3™ subscribers. For those publishing video, One True Media is providing a free trial on a limited basis, allowing you to send up to five creations at no cost through April 30, 2007. A standard subscription to One True Media offers memberships starting as low as $3.99/month or $39.99/year.

For more information, check out the TiVo press release TiVo and One True Media Offer Consumers Easy New Way to Share Home Movies with Friends and Family Across the Country, Right to their TiVo boxes.

TiVo and Verizon Wireless recently announced the availability of TiVo® Mobile scheduling, a downloadable application available only through Verizon Wireless. TiVo Mobile scheduling allows subscribers to purchase the mobile service through select Verizon Wireless handsets and schedule recordings on their Series2™ or Series3™ TiVo boxes.

TiVo and Verizon Wireless say they are bringing consumers the convenience of scheduling television recordings while away from the living room. Whether you are away from home or discussing TV at the water cooler, all that is needed is a select Verizon Wireless Get It Now®-enabled handset to schedule recordings on your TiVo box.

"TiVo continues to transform and revolutionize the way people control and watch television," said Jim Denney, vice president of product marketing at TiVo. "TiVo Mobile scheduling gives Verizon Wireless customers unprecedented control of their television experience and provides that control wherever they are."

Ryan Hughes, vice president of digital media for Verizon noted, "TiVo built its reputation by making television relevant to its customers, while Verizon Wireless built and maintains the nation's most reliable wireless network. This innovative service adds a new layer of relevance and immediacy, so even when they're thousands of miles away from their televisions, TiVo subscribers can program their favorite shows."

TiVo Mobile scheduling uses the award-winning TiVo interface to give subscribers the ability to easily search for and browse through listings to find shows that they want to record. Subscribers to the TiVo Mobile scheduling service will also have access to premium entertainment content that is updated daily, including a customizable channel lineup, the most popular and most recorded shows and a current list of recommendations from TiVo.

TiVo Mobile scheduling is available for $1.99 monthly access on select Get It Now-enabled phones, including the Samsung SCH-a950, Chocolate by LG and LG VX8300.

For more information, see the TiVo press release.

The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) formally approved AT&T California's application for a state-issued authorization to provide video service in California as part of "The Digital Infrastructure and Video Competition Act of 2006," which became law on January 1, 2007.

"The CPUC's approval of our application brings Californians one step closer to finally having a real choice to cable TV," said Ken McNeely, President, AT&T California. "After more than 40
years of the status quo, Californians are now beginning to see the benefits of a competitive marketplace for both TV/video and other broadband services."

"At AT&T, we're hard at work with cities across California as we upgrade our fiber-optic network to bring consumers the most advanced Internet Protocol (IP)-based TV/video services and faster Internet access speeds. Harnessing the power of IP, we're helping usher in a new era of innovative, next- generation services and new choices for Californians. We look forward to rolling out our TV/video service—AT&T U-verse(SM)—in cities throughout [California] as soon as possible."

For more information, see the AT&T press release.

Game developer Digital Leisure announced this week the release of Dragon's Lair, the first high definition-video game to be offered on Blu-ray disc.

An instant hit in its 1983 arcade debut, Dragon's Lair has now been digitally restored and enhanced with an all-new 5.1 surround sound mix. The video has been transferred directly from the original film and cleaned frame by frame by Digital Leisure and authoring studio Infinite HD. In addition, Dragon's Lair is the first release to be authored in the Blu-ray Java environment, or BD-J, an advanced format that allows users to enjoy a fully arcade-authentic experience.

"I've seen the newly restored footage and it just looks amazing" says Don Bluth, original creator of Dragon's Lair. "It looks even better than I can remember. The visuals, the 5.1 surround sound audio, all I can say is 'Wow!' Now a whole new generation can enjoy Dragon's Lair all over again."

All the special features on the disc are in full 1080p HD, including brand-new interviews with creators Don Bluth, Gary Goldman and Rick Dyer, and even a full-length visual commentary of the game.

Digital Leisure plans to follow up Dragon's Lair Blu-ray with the release of Space Ace and Dragon's Lair II: Time Warp in the Blu-ray format.

Dragon's Lair Blu-ray will be available April 9 at software and movie retailers as well as online.

For more information, check out the press release.

AT&T recently announced that Frost & Sullivan selected AT&T Homezone(SM) service as the 2007 North American Consumer Communication Services Product of the Year.

The Frost & Sullivan Award for Product of the Year recognizes the company that has demonstrated excellence in new products and technologies within its industry. In selecting AT&T for this award, Frost & Sullivan noted, "AT&T has incorporated a coherent product strategy to retain its competitive position in the consumer services space and to provide customers with an integrated home-entertainment experience."

"AT&T's Homezone services builds on the company's reputation as a reliable network provider and a consumer services innovator," said Jeff Weber, vice president, AT&T Product and Strategy. "This award from Frost & Sullivan recognizes the original thinking and careful planning that went into bringing this service to market and that our mission to connect with customers via the three screens they value most—the TV, the PC and the wireless phone—is working."

With AT&T Homezone services, the company became the first national telecommunications provider to offer seamlessly integrated video content and TV entertainment to the "digital living room," through both broadband and traditional satellite networks via a single set-top device.

AT&T Homezone integrates AT&T Yahoo!(R) High-Speed Internet, AT&T | DISH Network satellite television and AT&T Home Networking services. It features digital videorecording, movies on demand, photo and music sharing, storage for both, and remote Web-based access to the system. It will soon also include remote access to the system through wireless devices. The service is available across most of the company's traditional broadband footprint.

"With its Homezone service, AT&T has demonstrated a commitment to delivering consistent growth in the future as it has in the past," said Piyush Arora, Frost & Sullivan analyst. "This service builds on AT&T's existing infrastructure and video delivery strategy to combine satellite TV programming with new levels of integration and on-demand content via broadband. It's a real homerun for consumers and AT&T."

For more information, check out the AT&T press release.

XM recently announced that XM Radio Online will be included in Microsoft's new operating system, Windows Vista.

Released to the public at the end of January, Windows Vista will offer XM Radio Online as part of its digital music hub. XM Radio Online delivers more than 80 radio channels, including commercial-free music, the Oprah & Friends talk and lifestyle channel, "The Bob Edwards Show," "Opie & Anthony," stand-up comedy, and children's programming.

Web users can sign up for a free, three-day trial of XM Radio Online. Unlimited listening is available for $7.99 a month. Those who subscribe to XM Satellite Radio for the car, home, or portable listening can enjoy XM Radio Online for no additional charge.

"XM is pleased to be extending its strategic relationship with Microsoft with the inclusion of XM Radio Online in Windows Vista," said My-Chau Nguyen, XM senior vice president for marketing programs and operations. "By working with Microsoft, we are expanding the availability of XM Radio Online, which provides an extraordinary variety of music choices, talk radio options, and exclusive programming such as 'Oprah & Friends.' The integration of XM Radio Online further enhances the music and entertainment experience offered by Windows Vista."

"Microsoft is pleased to be working closely with XM," said Mike Sievert, corporate vice president, Windows at Microsoft Corp. "We are thrilled with XM's support and excitement for the launch of Windows Vista and the 2007 Office system."

For more information, check out the XM Satellite Radio press release.

Contemplating life without my TiVo is a scary prospect but the Yankee Group says that might just happen in the near future. The technology research and consulting firm recently announced that their research shows that the standalone DVR product category will cease to exist by 2010, and its dissolution will result in the end of TiVo as we know it.

According to the Yankee Group Report, Technology on Fast Forward: 2006 to 2011 US DVR Forecast, even as DVR growth accelerates, TiVo will struggle to remain relevant in the market. They conclude that TiVo will begin to shed subscribers during the forecast period while service providers will continue to capitalize on the emerging technology and no entry cost hardware to incrementally up-sell subscribers to new services.

"The five year outlook for the DVR in the home is one of unmitigated growth and opportunity. As new technology emerges, it is important that advertisers, service providers and broadcasters remember that taking away [consumer's] ability to skip commercials is not an option," said Joshua Martin, Yankee Group, Consumer analyst. "The answer lies in innovation and evolution to reach the mass and niche markets moving forward because the era of the 30-second spot is fading away for all age groups and demographics."

During the forecast period, DVRs will become commoditized, resulting in the end of TiVo. However, according to Martin, "TiVo has incredible brand value that resonates with customers and it will be an asset to any service provider, increasing the likelihood of an acquisition."

For more information, check out the press release.

According to a new Nickelodeon research study titled "The Digital Family," families today rely on modern technology to function more than ever before, rendering former household staples such as road maps and dictionaries obsolete, as well as reducing the importance of spelling skills. Key findings of the study also indicated that kids and parents place a higher premium on "downtime," and that TV has become their medium of choice to relax. And, contrary to popular belief, parents are embracing technologies just as much as kids, and view cell phones as essential part of managing their lives, while also providing kids more freedom.

"The Digital Family" research incorporates findings from Nickelodeon's "Living in a Digital World" research project (2006), which explores technologies including: the Internet, television, cell phones, mp3 players and more. "The Digital Family" offers insights from kids 8-14 and parents of kids 0-14, and references several findings from Nickelodeon commissioned studies (Multicultural Kids Study 2006 and Nickelodeon Wireless Study 2006).

"In today's modern family, parents and kids identify technology as a homework helper, virtual babysitter, time-keeper and a center piece of a lot of family time," said Cyma Zarghami, President of Nickelodeon and the MTVN Kids and Family Group. "We found that technology has brought the need for new skills while seemingly lessening the need for others. What is very apparent is the critical role technology is playing in helping modern families functions."

The survey found that tech devices like computers and the Internet have become essential tools in daily living, making kids and parents much more productive and self sufficient. In some instances, the Internet has almost become part of the family. More than half of parents (59 percent) strongly agree that it helps them get things done and 68 percent surveyed believe it makes them more efficient and self sufficient.  As one parent from the study said, "I just didn't realize how much the internet was part of my family."

The majority of kids said the Internet helps them do better in school (85 percent) and helped them learn things (93 percent). Kids also said they believed it helps them to be more creative and makes them feel like they've accomplished something.

Last week, CBS Research revealed new data showing that as the public at large becomes more connected to digital media, the more engaged they become in primetime television programming. Additionally, as more TV viewers become aware of the 2009 deadline for broadcasters to switch to full digital transmissions, the likelihood of them investing in new digital TV sets increases by 40 percent.

Those are just two of the major findings revealed today by a comprehensive study CBS Research has conducted examining consumers' attitudes towards digital media, and the role television will play in the near future. The project was led by David F. Poltrack, Chief Research Officer, CBS Corporation, President of CBS Vision.

Researchers found that 56 percent of those surveyed were aware that you could watch network television programs by streaming them over the Internet. Of those aware of this streaming option, 46 percent have already streamed at least one program. Of those not aware of this streaming option, when told which programs were available for streaming, 62 percent selected at least one of the 33 available programs that they probably would watch via streaming over the in the future. Analysts say it is clear that the potential for network program distribution over the Internet is just beginning to be tapped.

In addition, the research shows that people are gradually moving up to higher levels of connectivity. The segment of the population with both a broadband and a digital television connection at home has grown from 22 percent in the fall of 2005 to more than 30 percent in the fall of 2006. The same segment is most likely to watch the top broadcast network programs. In addition, this segment visits network television web sites and is increasingly likely to stream clips and full episodes of network television programs on the  Internet. Members of this upscale, better-educated "fully connected" segment are today the most engaged with the popular network programs.

"This data clearly show a correlation between connectivity and primetime television viewing," said Poltrack. "Consumers who embrace the new media are the heaviest viewers of the top network primetime programs, and this sector of the audience is growing. By offering them new ways to connect to their favorite shows- whether it's Web sites, podcasts, ringtones or other mobile features- we've been able to deepen the bond these fully connected viewers have with our programming. The research also illustrates that as viewers learn about the 2009 deadline for digital transmissions their attitudes towards investing in technology, like advanced home entertainment centers, to watch their favorite shows, changes radically. These findings really demonstrate the potential the broadcast networks have to further engage the public with our content as new technology expands our distribution options."

To read more about this new research, check out the CBS press release.

You may have noticed that some of the posts these last two weeks have mentioned the 2007 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES). No, I didn't convince my bosses to send me to Las Vegas but I have been keeping up with all the great news coming out of the show.

If you aren't familiar with CES, here's a little background. It is the world's largest annual tradeshow for consumer technology and America's largest annual tradeshow of any kind. The first CES took place in New York City in June of 1967 with 200 exhibitors and 17,500 attendees. Since then, CES has grown tremendously. Nearly 2,700 exhibitors, filling 1.6 million net square feet of exhibit space, showcased their latest products and services to more than 140,000 attendees at the 2006 International CES.

Attendees and exhibitors come from the United States, Canada, Mexico and more than 130 other countries, including manufacturers, retailers, content providers and creators, broadband developers, wireless carriers, cable and satellite TV providers, installers, engineers, corporate buyers, government leaders, financial analysts and the media from around the world.

It's also the place where the most exciting consumer electronics get debuted every year. Some of the past product debuts include:

• Videocassette Recorder (VCR), 1970
• Compact Disc Player, 1981
• Digital Satellite System, 1994
• High Definition Television (HDTV), 1998
• Microsoft Xbox, 2001
• IP TV, 2005

As you can see, this show is pretty important when it comes to the technology we use daily. Trying to keep up with all the new products introduced this year has been a challenge but it's also very exciting. Who knows what will be the next big thing that will become something we all can't live without!

To read more about the show, check out the official site at cesweb.org. And don't forget to check back here for more CES news.

Delphi announced this week that it has just sold its 13-millionth satellite radio receiver, setting a new milestone. The company also says it plans to showcase its satellite radio products next week at the 2007 International Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.

Delphi currently produces receivers for more than 10 new vehicle manufacturers. It also sells a variety a variety of models as add-on accessories for multiple uses at home and on the road. Delphi is familiar to most consumers of satellite radio because of its Delphi SKYFi, MyFi and ROADY family of portable satellite radio receivers. The company says that three out of four users listen to satellite radio on Delphi hardware.

"Satellite radio is changing the paradigm of radio in the U.S.," said Ken Erickson, Delphi Electronics & Safety general director of the Entertainment & Communications product business unit. "Satellite radio has not only taken a long-time analog medium and made it digital, but it has also opened a new world of offerings to customers by providing more than a 100 additional channels of programming."

Satellite radio is the radio medium that offers customers up to 170 channels of programming in addition to the traditional AM/FM radio offerings. Satellite radio programming is beamed from satellites and includes a very wide variety of music, talk, sports, news, traffic, weather and entertainment coast-to-coast in the U.S. without fading.

"Consumers now demand this level of flexibility and ownership, fueled even more today by their ability to personalize their listening experience through MP3 players," said Max Rogers, Delphi consumer electronics executive. "Satellite radio's 170 channels of individual programming offers the same type of tailored listening experience with no downloading hassles."

In addition to adding new programming to the vehicle, Delphi has developed a digital data decoder that works in conjunction with the Delphi satellite receiver to enable real-time traffic services in North America. Vehicles with a Delphi satellite receiver equipped with this data port and a navigation system can receive up-to-date traffic while playing satellite radio. The system is also capable of providing real-time weather, sports scores and stock updates.

Delphi's long history with satellite radio receivers includes celebrating sales milestones for 2.5 millionth in May 2004 and 5 million units in April 2005.

For more information on Delphi's current milestone, check out the press release.

D-Link, a networking solutions provider, recently announced it is shipping its latest MediaLounge Wireless Media Player "DSM-510" a compact media player capable of delivering video, digital photos, music and more to televisions and home entertainment centers from computers and storage devices over a home network via a wired or 802.11g/b wireless connection. The new media player also aids in the streaming of high-definition (HD) video through a wired network connection.

Building on the new product availability, D-Link also announced that its DSM-510 received Intel Viiv technology verification, which tests the compatibility of networked media devices with Intel Viiv technology-based PCs. Using the Intel Viiv technology verified DSM-510, consumers will get maximum enjoyment out of their digital home entertainment network, including access to the Intel?? Viiv??? Zone, which offers a growing selection of on-demand, Internet-delivered premium content, including movies, music videos, TV shows, and information services.

While performance is optimized for users with Intel Viiv technology-based PCs, the DSM-510 is compatible with computers running Windows XP or 2000.

"The DSM-510 is an extremely powerful, full-featured media player with an intuitive user interface that bridges together computers, storage devices and the Internet with the home entertainment center for a heightened multimedia experience," said Brian Larsen, associate vice president of product development for D-Link Systems Inc. "Passing Intel Viiv technology verification underscores our commitment to bring next-generation connectivity solutions to market for consumers for enjoying seamless sharing and instant access to digital media and entertainment from anywhere inside their home."

"Intel Viiv technology, based on the new Core 2 Duo processor, is the superior technology for today's media PCs. When used with verified devices like the new D-Link MediaLounge player, consumers will enjoy new levels of digital home entertainment' said Gerald Holzhammer, Vice President, Digital Home Group and General Manager of Intel's Consumer PC Platform Group. 'We are pleased that D-Link has completed the verification process for the MediaLounge DSM-510 which will carry the 'Enjoy with Intel Viiv technology' logo."

For best results, Larsen added, the D-Link MediaLounge DSM-510 Media Player would be connected to an existing home network via wired Ethernet, or through an 802.11g wireless standard-compliant router such as the Intel Viiv technology verified D-Link RangeBooster G Wireless Router (WBR-2310) or AirPremier AG Dual-Band Wireless Router (DI-784). Another alternative for Ethernet-wired performance is the D-Link PowerLine Network Kit (DHP-301) that enables consumers to tap into their existing electrical wiring to extend their home network.

The retail price for D-Link MediaLounge DSM-510 is around $240. The device is now available from most computer retail outlets and at www.dlinkshop.com. For more information, check out the D-Link press release.

The National Federation of the Blind has partnered with Tribune Media Services to add television listings to NFB-NEWSLINE, the nation's largest on-demand news service for the blind.  This new service will allow blind and visually impaired Americans to have independent access to their local TV listings.

By entering the zip code, source of TV reception, and time zone, blind users will have access to their local TV listings through Zap2it television. The listings are interactive, as the user can navigate and choose between date, time, and/or channel listings.

"The sheer volume of information that blind persons will now have access to is astonishing," said Dr. Marc Maurer, President of the National Federation of the Blind. "Finally, blind television viewers can find out what's on any channel, at any time, and within seconds."

Over 50,000 NFB-NEWSLINE subscribers already use the free electronic newspaper service which carries 242 newspapers and magazines to 41 states and the District of Columbia.  The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, USA Today and AARP The Magazine are among the many national and local newspapers offered.  Subscribers have access twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, through a local or toll-free telephone number.

Individuals who are unable to read print due to a physical disability are eligible for this free service.  You can register or request more information by calling the National Federation of the Blind at (866) 504-7300, or visit them online at www.nfbnewsline.org.

In this age of instant feedback online from consumers, smart companies are taking advantage of the situation by allowing their products to be reviewed by bloggers. While some companies have tried to outwit the public by creating fake personalities to tout the virtues of their products, the smarter ones are allowing bloggers to find their products at their own pace and to rate and review their offerings as they choose. One such provider is AT&T.

Alan Weinkrantz, a PR tech blogger, has taken it upon himself to chronicle his trial of the AT&T's new U-verse service. Because he lives in San Antonio, Alan was an early trial user of the AT&T U-verse service. Owner of his own PR firm and frequent blogger, he started documenting his experiences and observations on the service in May of this year. Things really heated up when he began to make daily posts at his blog, www.3screens.net, to document his experience of having AT&T's HD (High Definition) broadcast television service installed and deployed at his home.

Alan has not only writes about his experience as an AT&T trial user, but also makes suggestions and commentary about the company's strategy. He even spoke at the TelcoTV Conference in Dallas where he addressed his experiences and observations about being a U-verse customer.

"I can't recommend blogging and social media to clients unless I've done it and have been successful," he said in an interview with MidwestBusiness.com. "This is a fortuitous set of events because I'm in San Antonio and became a trial U-verse." Alan went on to say that "there are enough analysts and technical experts in the world. I don't think the world needs more "experts."

His commentary about the service is open and honest. No service is perfect and Alan isn't shy about noting drawbacks, including small things like no clock on the set-top box or overload of certain types of channels.

In addition, he makes it clear that he's only paying such close attention to one provider because he lives in the firm's service area. "If I lived in an area served by Verizon, I would be doing the same thing about them," he assured MidwestBusiness.com. "AT&T is really just my plumbing supplier."

Read more about Alan's experience with AT&T U-verse service at www.3screens.net. You can also check out his interview with MidwestBusiness.com.

DSL's subscriber base went up to more than 173 million while global broadband subscribers reached more than 263 million over the last year. Each week, 1.25 million people signed up to broadband according to the latest statistics prepared for the international DSL Forum by industry analyst Point Topic. An additional 65 million people subscribed to broadband in the period—with two-thirds of new subscribers choosing DSL that delivers broadband over telephone lines.

According to the Forum, DSL is by far the most popular broadband access technology in the world at 65.6 percent market share, rising to 82 percent in the European Union—the world's largest broadband region.

Sixteen countries now have more than two million DSL subscribers, together representing just under half of all broadband customers using this technology. Globally, the largest broadband market in the world is the USA with more than 55.5 million subscribers, followed by China at 48.5 million. Japan in third place has almost 26 million. Together, they account for almost half of all broadband connections across the world.

"As the global reach of broadband into people's lives continues to grow, the range of access technologies used to deliver its benefits is also expanding to capitalize on the various available infrastructures," said Michael Brusca, president of the international DSL Forum. "Even though DSL is the predominant delivery technology in the world, the DSL Forum is working to extend the benefits of our own specifications to be equally applicable for other network technologies and to address the service delivery needs of the ever-growing range of multimedia devices and applications that depend on broadband for their success."

To read more about these findings, visit www.dslforum.org.

EMBARQ recently announced the opening of its first Technology and Innovation Center^SM in Las Vegas, Nevada, at the Andre Agassi Boys & Girls Club. In addition to modernizing the existing lab with new computers and educational software, the Center is now equipped with new furniture and EMBARQ products and services, including high-speed Internet as well as local and long-distance phone service, a value of more than $40,000.

EMBARQ says that the Center is the latest initiative in the company's ongoing commitment to education and to the communities where it provides communications services.

"It is rewarding to see the EMBARQ Technology and Innovation Center come to life," said Angela Quinn, president, Boys & Girls Clubs of Las Vegas. "Thanks to EMBARQ's generous donation of advanced technology, our kids now have the world at their fingertips, which will help them improve their education and life skills."

As part of its efforts to further the success of the Technology Center and the local Boys & Girls Club, EMBARQ says employees will volunteer in a variety of capacities, including mentoring and after-school programs. Many of the volunteers have been involved with the Club for years and now have the opportunity to further their commitment to Las Vegas youth with the opening of the Technology Center.

"EMBARQ is honored to support the Andre Agassi Boys & Girls Club by offering financial, technological and volunteer resources," said Dan Hesse, EMBARQ Chairman and CEO and a member of the national board of governors for the Boys & Girls Clubs of America. "We are pleased that the Center will provide Las Vegas youth with the technological resources necessary to further their education and explore the world around them."

EMBARQ has been a long time supporter of Boys & Girls Clubs and plans to open EMBARQ Technology and Innovation Centers at Boys & Girls Clubs in Franklin, Indiana; Ft. Myers, Florida; and Louisburg, North Carolina, in Jan. 2007, with several more at locations to be determined later in the year.

To learn more about the Boys & Girls Clubs of Las Vegas, visit www.bgclv.org.

Time Warner and Time Warner Cable recently announced they will host "Home to the Future," a three-week interactive home installation at Time Warner Center, Jan. 17 through Feb 6, 2007, curated by renown museum exhibit designer Edwin Schlossberg of ESI Design.

The exhibit will include two rooms on both the first floor and second floors of the Time Warner Center, each featuring innovative digital technologies from across the Time Warner Cable portfolio including, digital phone, vdeo On demand, DVR (digital video recorder), high-definition programming and RoadRunner High-Speed Online.

"Home to the Future" will also present videos on new Time Warner Cable digital entertainment functions Quick Clips and StartOver, as well as a sampling of other digital initiatives from across the Time Warner family of businesses—from Warner Bros. and New Line to Time Inc., Home Box Office, AOL and Turner Broadcasting. The exhibit will include a series of themed ancillary events—in cooperation with Time Warner partners in film, television and music.

Fore more information about the Home to the Future and associated events, check out www.hometothefuture.com.

Last month, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced new ENERGY STAR specifications for computers and related equipment. Designed to save U.S. households and businesses more than $1.8 billion in energy costs over the next five years, these new modifications are also expected to prevent greenhouse gas emissions equal to the annual emissions of 2.7 million cars.

"As the driver of America's technology revolution, the innovative spirit of the computer industry is now powering our energy revolution," said EPA Administrator Stephen L. Johnson. "Through ENERGY STAR, President Bush and EPA are brightening our nation's future, and I applaud these leaders for developing energy efficient computers that are good for our environment and good our wallets."

Under the new specifications, only the most energy-efficient computer related equipment will earn the ENERGY STAR label, representing the top of their class. The new requirements include improved efficiency across all modes of a computer's operation, and require use of highly efficient internal and external power supplies. The new specifications go into effect on July 20, 2007.

If every computer purchased by businesses meets the new ENERGY STAR requirements in effect next year, businesses will save $1.2 billion over the lifetime of their new computers, equal to lighting 730 million square feet of U.S. commercial building space each year.

Government agencies buying ENERGY STAR will also garner big savings. If the government sector buys only computers that meet the new ENERGY STAR requirements, this sector will save nearly 1.4 billion kWh and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 2 billion pounds each year.

On average, ENERGY STAR qualifying computer equipment will be 65 percent more efficient than conventional models.

Computers were the first product to qualify for EPA's ENERGY STAR in 1992. EPA and computer makers have worked together on improving computer energy efficiency ever since. The United States now has more 180 million computers in use; they consume nearly 58 billion kWh per year, or about 2 percent of annual U.S. electricity consumption.

For more information about the specifications, visit the ENERGY STAR Web site.

Verizon and Intel Corporation recently announced a collaboration that will enable consumers to play popular PC games on their television sets through Intel® Viiv™ technology-based PCs.

The Verizon Games on Demand service enables users to play popular PC games on their TVs through Intel Viiv technology-based PCs running Microsoft Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005. Using a wireless game controller and MCE remote control, consumers can play a variety of games from the comfort of their favorite couch or easy chair, also referred to as the "10-foot view" of the television set.

The companies will also market a version of PlayLinc, a new game messenger that they say provides a faster and more entertaining way to enjoy multiplayer games online. A free service, PlayLinc provides a variety of features, including free private servers, VoIP integration and the ability for players to track when their friends are online and ready to join a game.

"We're creating a graphics-rich, big-screen game-playing experience for the entire family," said Colson Hillier, director of new product development for Verizon. "The games that families now enjoy on their PCs will become larger than life, more fun to play and accessible in virtually every room of the house, through linkages between a family's PC and their TV. This is an extension of Verizon's commitment to provide customers with the content and service they want, whenever they want it, and however they want to receive it."

Read more in the press release Verizon and Intel Bring Online PC Gaming to TVs.

California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger signed an executive order near the end of October to make it easier for the state to build broadband networks. According to the official press release, the goal of the order is to ensure all government agencies are using the best technologies to serve the people and create a broadband task force that lets experts from government and business work together to identify and eliminate obstacles to making broadband Internet access available across the state.

"California is home to the greatest technology entrepreneurs. Let's show the world what we can do," said Gov. Schwarzenegger at the UC Davis Health System Pediatric Telehealth Colloquium in San Francisco, where a doctor examined an 11-year old leukemia patient by video about 100 miles away in Sacramento. "If we want to stay number one in technology, we need action. In countries like Japan and South Korea, the people have access to great technologies at lower costs than anywhere in America. We can do that. Michigan has one of the largest wireless broadband networks in the country. We can do that. That's why I'm signing an executive order to help make California a leader in the telecommunications revolution."

After his speech to the colloquium, the Governor joined Silicon Valley CEOs and executives to discuss the economic development that increased broadband adoption would spur. "Broadband will help build California so we can grow our economy by competing in the global marketplace," said Gov. Schwarzenegger. "California must remain competitive so we continue to attract the best, brightest and most creative workforce in the world."

Research conducted on the California "One Gigabyte or Bust" Broadband Initiative estimated that enabling broadband access for 50 percent of Californians would have enormous economic impacts on the state, adding over $365 billion annually to the state's economy within seven years and helping create or retain two million sustainable jobs. Similarly, the California Communications Association estimates that every dollar invested in broadband networks generates $3 in economic activity, and that every $1 billion in telecom capital spending equates to 7,000 new telecom jobs—including jobs in network construction, engineering, operations and the creation of new equipment and products.

A U.S. Commerce Department study released this year found that the availability of broadband is directly tied to business growth—especially among new technology-intensive firms. The Governor's office believes that greater broadband access will directly support California's world-leading techn