Intel's next-generation Core processors
Those in the process of upgrading their computers might want to hold off for a few weeks - Intel's next range of i3, i5 and i7 processors were announced at CES, and they offer much better performance.
The chipmaker has left plenty of room for choice: the initial line-up consists of 29 chips with varying performance levels.
The tiering is complex, but of the 13 new i7 processors, only three are for desktop use. The rest, including the high-end Extreme Edition variant, are aimed at mobile platforms.
Mainstream offerings, the i5 and i3 range, see 11 desktop and five mobile chips. These are joined by 10 new chipsets, and four new wireless options.
Intel SA hopes to introduce the processors here in February, while system integrators have yet to share information on desktops or notebooks with the silicon.
Samsung Galaxy Player
First the Korean electronics giant took a swipe at the iPhone 4 with its Galaxy S Android smartphone. Then the iPad, with the Galaxy Tab. Now there's the Galaxy Player, very clearly taking aim at the iPod touch.
The Galaxy Player shares most specs with its call-making brother, including the high-density four-inch display, 1GHz processor and front-facing camera. They're even the same thickness.
No word yet on when we can expect the Galaxy Player in SA.
Navteq Natural Guidance
Thanks to some Navigon innovations, we soon won't have to listen to linear, uninformed instructions from our GPS units.
In its words, Natural Guidance gives directions “the way a friend does”. Instead of giving instructions such as 'Turn right in 100 metres', the system uses landmark data and can instruct you to 'Turn right when you get to McDonalds'.
Navigon explains that the system was designed to give instructions “to sound like it is coming from a friend riding alongside”. The data in the system enables it to use more than just regular landmarks: buildings can be identified by type and colour, too.
Users can try it out using the iGO My Way application for the Apple iOS devices, but, currently, the system only works in Europe and North America.
BlackBerry PlayBook goes 4G
The yet-to-be-released BlackBerry PlayBook was originally demonstrated without any internals for connecting to mobile networks, but at CES the company confirmed its partnership with American cellular provider, Sprint. This will see it building a version of the device that will operate on Sprint's 4G network. The device will be available on the new network in the US summer.
We don't have any next-generation networks locally, but those who do get their hands on a PlayBook when it's released later this year will be able to pair it with their BlackBerry smartphone.
RIM has not announced any intention to build a 3G version of the device.
HP's post-CES plans
Not one to let its announcements get lost in the glitz, glamour and gluttony of Las Vegas, where CES is being held, HP has slated an event for 19 January. The details simply say it's for a webOS announcement, and all signs point to the possibility of a tablet being unveiled.
Meanwhile, Apple is widely expected to announce a new product after the CES frenzy has fizzled. The talk among the CES tech crowd and accessory makers? A new iPad.
Share