Sony’s plans to make the PlayStation Move controller a PC peripheral have been prematurely outed, after references to the “Move Server project” were included in a Game Developers Conference 2011 schedule. According to the description, Game Systems and Developer Support head John McCutchan will be discussing PC software development for Move at a GDC talk later this month.
McCutchan will be revealing the “Move Server project that will make it possible for academics and hobbyists to develop software using the PlayStation Move controller on their own PCs” as well as looking at how the Move Shooter accessory can be accommodated. The project appears to be Sony’s attempt to kick start sanctioned hacking of the Move, perhaps in similar ways to how we’ve seen Microsoft’s Kinect and, before then, Nintendo’s Wii used in non-standard ways.
We’re used to seeing all sorts of funky motion-based games on smartphones, but here’s something a little bit different: a retro-themed desktop 3D flash game that utilises your iOS device as an accelerometer and gyroscope-based wireless controller. The objective of kijjaa! is simple: just fly your vessel around, shoot down or avoid the enemies, and pick up extra lives. Don’t worry, there’s no jailbreaking involved here — all we had to do was visit kijjaa.com/air, and then copy the code onto our iOS app to establish the link via WiFi or 3G.
There’s no serious challenge in kijjaa! — based on the app’s description on iTunes, the game’s designed with students and office workers in mind, so it’s ideal for those seeking a fun quickie during their short breaks. We’d say the hardest part is trying to dodge the ghosts that show up randomly in short notice, but what really annoyed us were the occasional control lags that popped up even over WiFi. Still, for a promotional $0.99 pricing (the 70 percent price drop ends on January 17th has been extended to January 24th), this game has gone much further than most other games have, and it’ll only get better — already in the pipeline are Game Center support, new enemies, new bonuses, and achievements. Hopefully the developer will also throw in some more chiptune soundtracks as well. Demo video after the break — it kinda makes you want this on the Apple TV too, doesn’t it?
Motion’s latest tablet PC may not be as slim as the Viliv X70 Windows 7 Slate, but the Motion CL900 is a whole lot more resilient. The ruggedized slate has a 10.1-inch 1376 x 768 display with Gorilla Glass and meets military specs for dust, drop, sand and temperature; it also supports both finger and stylus input, has Intel’s latest 1.5GHz Oak Trail Atom CPU, and can be outfitted with Gobi 3000 broadband.
There’s also WiFI a/g/n, Bluetooth 3.0, GPS, and a battery good for up to eight hours of use. RAM is 2GB and there’s a choice of 30GB or 62GB SSD along with dual cameras. Motion also offer a range of accessories, including a docking station – complete with a pen holder, ethernet and a USB hub – and a card-reader (that makes the CL900 look a little like a microwave).
Perhaps most impressive of all is the price, which will kick off at under $1,000 when the CL900 goes on sale in Q2 2011. That may not make it the cheapest tablet around, but this is a full Windows 7 machine designed for mobile pros after all.
Press Release:
Motion Announces its First Ultra-Light, Rugged Tablet PC with Versatile Flexibility
The new Motion CL900 offers dual touch and stylus input, a rugged design and robust connectivity for on-the-go collaboration
AUSTIN, Texas and LAS VEGAS – January 5, 2011 – Motion®, a leading global provider of tablet PCs and supporting mobility solutions, announced today from the International Consumer Electronics Show (CES), its first small form factor, rugged tablet PC designed for productivity and business integration. The Motion® CL900 is a robust tablet with a flexible feature set that enables access to and utilization of data while mobile. Motion will be showcasing the tablet PC at the Hilton Las Vegas (LVCC), Suite #377, offering media and analysts the option to take video, preview and experience the tablet throughout CES. The CL900 is expected to be available early in the second quarter of 2011.
Architected for Versatility
The new Motion CL900 is built based on customer demand for a mobile and integrated device that offers the capabilities to support mobile workflows. Architected for future expansion, the CL900 will feature a peripheral module that will enable simple device expansion. Tightly secured and integrated into the device, the peripheral module will incorporate key documentation tools without compromising durability. Peripheral modules will be released later in 2011.
Connected, Light and Rugged
The rugged F5v Tablet PC and C5v MCA now feature the Intel® Core™ i7 or Core™ i5 vPro™ technology, enabling a significant improvement in performance and battery life over previous solutions. Additionally, incorporating Intel Core vPro technology will enable Motion customers to experience:
Up to eight hours of battery life for all-day, uninterrupted productivity
Lightweight and rugged design that offers the protection of the MIL-STD-810G specification (four foot drop test) at only 2.1 pounds and less than 16mm thick
IP-52 rated exterior to protect against dust, moisture and other elements
Optional integrated Gobi™ 3000 mobile broadband with GPS, 802.11 a/b/g/n WLAN, Bluetooth® 3.0, and a wireless SIM port for advanced communications
Display with Corning® Gorilla® Glass display for added durability and scratch resistance and incorporated DuPont Vertak™ to improve visibility in various lighting conditions
Built for Business Integration
The CL900 was designed to integrate seamlessly into business environments. Running Microsoft® Windows® 7 and powered by the upcoming Intel® Atom™ processor currently codenamed “Oak Trail”, the CL900 balances power, performance and battery life. Additionally, IT serviceability and enterprise support options help ensure uptime and reduce IT resource drain. Business benefits include:
The ability to run existing applications, lowering the cost of deployment
The performance needed to simultaneously run multiple enterprise applications
Bright display that offers the convenience of both touch and stylus input
30GB or 62GB solid state drive (SSD), and up to 2GB of RAM
The new Intel Atom processor is specifically designed for tablet PCs and mobile workflows that require a balance of productivity and battery life. An enhanced version of the Atom line of processors, “Oak Trail” will offer the responsiveness, security and manageability required for mobile users in business environments.
“Motion’s latest tablet is a perfect example of the power and productivity available in enterprise-based mobility solutions,” said René Torres, director of marketing, Netbook and Tablet Group, Intel. “With the power and performance of our upcoming ‘Oak Trail’ Intel Atom processor, along with the mobility and durability of the CL900, Motion is delivering an ideal productivity tool for workers on the move.”
Versatile and Configurable
Additionally, the unique design of the CL900 offers multiple optional features and connectivity ports to improve functionality for a variety of different uses. Documentation and expansion features include:
Front and rear-facing cameras to support documentation, video conferencing and collaboration
A full complement of ports, including USB, SD Card, audio and video to simplify the use of industry standard peripheral solutions
A unique countertop docking station that optimizes the CL900 for touch input and adds a simple and easy way to integrate peripherals
A variety of cases and straps to accommodate multiple usage patterns
Powerful and Affordable
With a planned starting MSRP of less than U.S. $1000 the CL900 offers a competitive entry price point to other tablet PCs with a unique, rugged design that supports a lower total cost of ownership over non-rugged devices. The CL900 will be available to ship early in the second quarter of 2011 while the optional peripheral module will be available later in the first half of the year. For more information on the CL900 or to register for product updates, please visit the CL900 Product Page.
Whether or not you own a NintendoWii, you’ve probably seen the commercials. Or know someone who owns one, and have experienced the gameplay for yourself. With that in mind, we all know that Nintendo intended for people to get off the couch and actually interact with their games on a whole “new” level. Sure, there’s some commercials out there that show plenty of folks sitting on their couch, tilting their Wii remotes all over the place, but with accessories like Wii Fit and what not, we all know where Nintendo was going with this. (And subsequently, yes, Sony’s Move is positioned in much the same way.) But, what about Microsoft’s Kinect?
From what we’ve seen of Kinect, Microsoft’s upcoming motion-based gaming peripheral, there’s a lot going on. Kicking, leaning, slapping the air, and whatever else game developers can think of to include in their titles. But, what about sitting on the couch? We know that that’s not Microsoft’s main goal, but obviously you’re not going to want to stand on your feet for all that long, playing your favorite running game (…), so we expect to still use Kinect while we’re taking a rest. And, sure enough, Microsoft has confirmed that the Kinect software fully supports folks as they sit on their favorite chair or couch, or whatever else they might be sitting on.
But, there’s a catch. (Isn’t there always?) It is going to be up to the game developers out there, apparently, whether or not a specific game, and not Kinect itself, supports you sitting on your rump to play that particular title. Basically, the experience has to be developed with sitting in mind. So, it sounds like you won’t be able to cheat (or sit) your way through those Kinect Adventures segments, after all.
So, are there experiences out there right now that are designed with sitting in mind? Sure there are. Navigating through the Xbox 360’s Dashboard, or example, is perfectly suited for you to take a break. Also, making your way through ESPN, Zune, and Video apps is also plenty capable of having you sit through the experience. Truth be told, we are perfectly happy with this result. The idea of playing Kinect while sitting on the couch, at least for most of the games they’ve shown so far (outside of Kinectimals) require you to actually stand up and be involved to truly enjoy it, so we’re glad that it’s going to be up to developers on how we interact with our titles.
Tablet manufacturer Motion Computing has outed their latest model, and while the J3500 rugged slate may not appeal to the same audience as the iPad (nor come in at quite the same price) that’s not to say it’s not an appealing machine in its own right. Packing a 12.1-inch WXGA touchscreen – with various types of touch support on offer – and a choice of Intel Core i5 and i7 processors, the J3500 meets military specifications for bumps, drops and other rough treatment.
Up to a 160GB HDD or 128GB SSD are on offer, together with integrated Gobi 2000 WWAN, and there’s a 3-megapixel camera too. As for the display, there are multiple options including indoor/outdoor versions and GorillaGlass toughened versions; all support both active digitizer and capacitive multitouch control.
GottaBeMobile spent a few days with the Motion J3500 and shot the following video demo of it in action. It’s fair to say it’s a niche device – it’s also pretty heavy, too, thanks to all that ruggedization – and definitely not cheap (think around $3k), but if your needs extend to a little more than a “big iPod touch” then it may be worth a look.
Press Release:
Motion Launches the J3500 Rugged Tablet PC
Enhancements include advanced Intel® Core™ vPro™ processors, and a host of new options including dual touch technology, durable Gorilla™ glass and expanded storage capabilities
AUSTIN, Texas – June 22, 2010 – Motion Computing®, a leading provider of integrated mobile computing solutions, today announced the J3500 tablet PC. Built on the Motion® J-Series line of tablet PCs, the J3500 features Intel® Core™ vPro™ processors for enhanced performance, security and manageability. The J3500 also offers a variety of integrated features including touch technology, Gorilla™ glass, and expanded storage options.
New Capacitive Dual Touch
The J3500 with capacitive dual touch enables mobile workers to take advantage of the natural gesture navigation features built in Windows® 7 and other software applications. Optimized for digitizer and touch input, users can navigate touch-enabled software applications or legacy programs with smaller targets that require the accuracy of pen input. For more flexibility, palm rejection technology distinguishes between intentional and false touch while stylus recognition enables users to easily switch between input modes.
“Motion has long been recognized as an innovator in tablet computing, and is again offering new ways for enterprise users to enhance productivity through multiple interaction methods,” said Eddie O’Brien, VP Microsoft OEM. “Now, mobile workers can take full advantage of tablet computing, benefitting from the accuracy of pen input and the convenience of natural gestures, enhancing productivity as they navigate applications in the field.”
Enhanced Integrated Features
The J3500 also offers new features to help improve productivity and durability across Motion’s target vertical markets such as construction, field service and healthcare, including:
Extra-durable Corning Gorilla™ glass, offering up to a 4 times improvement in breakage resistance1, and new anti-smear coating for improved visibility
Enhanced system storage, with available 160GB hard disk drive (HDD), and 64GB or 128GB solid state drive (SSD) options and up to 4GB of RAM
Improved 3.0 megapixel documentation camera
Integrated Gobi2000™ mobile broadband with GPS
“Governments today must empower an extensive mobile workforce that depends on accessing information whenever and wherever,” said Darrell Lewis, VP of Product Management at Accela, Inc. “With Accela Mobile Office™ software running on the J3500, field workers in areas such as permitting, licensing, code enforcement, and public works, can take advantage of enhanced mobile computing capabilities in a sleek, rugged device.”
Intel Core vPro for Enhanced Performance, Security and Manageability
Now with Intel® Core™ i7 or Core™ i5 vPro™ technology, the J3500 offers a significant improvement in performance and enables Motion customers to experience:
Enhanced remote management capabilities enabling IT technicians to repair and secure the PC from any location, even while powered-down or in sleep mode, enabling greater levels of energy efficiency and streamlined maintenance processes
Increased security with fully manageable hard drive encryption, and Intel® Anti-Theft technology used with Computrace®, protecting valuable data in case of loss or theft
Improved multitasking with smart technology that adjusts processor speed to support workload changes, providing power when needed and working more efficiently when possible
“Enterprises have embraced the J-Series line of Motion Tablet PCs based on their flexibility, performance, mobility and durability,” said Mike Stinson, Vice President of Marketing, Motion Computing. “With the J3500, we extend the enterprise benefits with a tablet PC solution that is powerful, durable, multi-functional and mobile, enabling mobile workers to significantly improve productivity and collaboration through real-time access to enterprise data in the field.”
Enterprise-Ready, Durable Tablet PCs
Tested to withstand harsh mobile work environments, the rugged and flexible J3500 Tablet PC meets MIL-STD-810G and IP-52 ratings to ensure protection against bumps, drops, rain or other conditions that can damage commercial-grade computing solutions. Additionally, the dual hot-swappable battery solution extends the computing day and enables easy replacement of charged batteries without interruption. Built to fit seamlessly into enterprise environments, Motion’s complete line of tablet PCs utilize either the Windows® 7 or Windows XP operating system, reducing the burden on IT and enabling mobile workers to manage the same applications available to office-based employees.
Availability
The new Motion J3500 is now available through Motion’s network of value-added resellers and distributors. For more information or to find a certified Motion reseller visit Motion’s Channel Resources page.
The spread of Intel’s Core i5 and Core i7 processors continues, with Motion’s rugged tablet PCs the latest to pack the vPro chips. The Motion F5v and C5v both meet MIL-STD-810G and IP-54 standards – meaning you can get them wet or drop them and still keep working – but now have faster CPUs and up to 4GB of RAM. Motion reckon you’ll see not only a 50-percent increase in performance but up to 30-percent increase in battery life.
The F5v is Motion’s “mobile field tool” intended for outdoor users who need a machine that not only holds up to bumps but recognizes handwriting and runs all the usual Windows 7 apps. Meanwhile the C5v is the “mobile clinical assistant”, and can be specified with a hospital-friendly digital camera, RFID scanner and barcode reader.
Both have standard Gorilla glass, apparently up to four times stronger than regular display glass, integrated handles, WiFi and Bluetooth as standard and optional Gobi 2000 WWAN. There’s also an optional View Anywhere display for outdoor use. Pricing kicks off at $2,548 for the Motion F5v and $2,299 for the Motion C5v.
Press Release:
Motion Launches New Line of Rugged Tablet PCs Offering Enhanced Power, Performance and Integrated Features
Motion’s F5v Mobile Field Tool and C5v Mobile Clinical Assistant (MCA) are industry’s first slate tablet PCs to integrate advanced Intel® Core™ vPro™ processors
AUSTIN, Texas – May 19, 2010 – Motion Computing®, a leading provider of integrated mobile computing solutions, today announced the industry’s first slate tablet PCs with Intel® Core™ vPro™ processors, offering new levels of performance, security and manageability. Built on the company’s proven line of tablet PCs, Motion’s F5v and C5v meet the needs of mobile workforces across industries, and now feature enhanced integrated features, connectivity and durability.
“From its inception, Motion has delivered tablet PC solutions that address the needs of a highly mobile workforce,” said Mike Stinson, Vice President of Marketing, Motion Computing. “Today we extend that leadership with the introduction of the industry’s most advanced purpose-built slate tablet PCs that offer mobility, power and durability.”
Powerful Performance
The rugged F5v Tablet PC and C5v MCA now feature the Intel® Core™ i7 or Core™ i5 vPro™ technology, enabling a significant improvement in performance and battery life over previous solutions. Additionally, incorporating Intel Core vPro technology will enable Motion customers to experience:
Enhanced remote management capabilities enabling IT technicians to repair and secure the PC from any location, even while powered-down or in sleep mode, enabling greater levels of energy efficiency and streamlined maintenance processes
Increased security with fully manageable hard drive encryption, and Intel® Anti-Theft technology used with Computrace®, protecting valuable data in case of loss or theft
Improved multitasking with smart technology that adjusts processor speed to support workload changes, providing power when needed and working more efficiently when possible
“Motion tablets with the 2010 Intel Core vPro processors adapt to the needs of mobile workforces with smart security, cost-saving manageability, and intelligent performance,” said Brian Tucker, Director of Marketing, Business Client Platform Division at Intel. “Now enterprises can take advantage of the powerful applications and rich user experiences available with today’s technology.”
Built on Proven Technology
Motion’s next-generation C5v and F5v Tablet PCs are based on the company’s proven line of rugged tablets that are in use by mobile professionals worldwide. New features to further increase productivity, connectivity and durability for enhanced mobile experiences include:
Hot-swap battery feature for easy replacement of charged batteries without interruption
System storage enhancements, featuring a powerful 160GB HDD and up to 4GB of RAM
Extra-durable Corning Gorilla™ glass, now standard, offering up to a 4 times improvement in breakage resistance1, with new anti-smear coating for improved visibility
Enhanced optional, integrated 3.0 megapixel documentation camera and new web camera for improved communication and collaboration capabilities
Integrated Gobi2000™ mobile broadband supporting multi-mode 3G mobile Internet access on either HSPA or CDMA2000® EV-DO networks in markets around the world
Enterprise-Ready, Highly Powerful, Durable and Mobile Tablet PCs
Tested to withstand even the harshest working environments, the C5v and F5v Tablet PCs meet MIL-STD-810G and IP-54 standards. Drop tested on 26 sides and fully sealed against dust and moisture, the tablet PCs are designed to withstand bumps, drops, rain or other conditions that can damage commercial-grade computing solutions. Additionally, the tablet PCs are enterprise-ready. Utilising either the Windows® 7 or Windows XP operating system, the C5v and F5v fit seamlessly into enterprise-environments, reducing the burden on IT and enabling mobile workers to manage the same applications available to office-based employees.
The Motion C5v MCA and F5v Mobile Field Tool
The next generation of the proven C5-Series and F5-Series Tablet PCs, the Motion C5v and F5v are tailored to mobile professionals across vertical industries such as healthcare, construction and field service. The tablet PCs are fully rugged yet lightweight, making them the ideal solution for workers who compute while walking or standing. Deployed across organisations worldwide, the tablet PCs are proving to enhance documentation, improve collaboration, and reduce process latencies. For more information visit the Products and Services page.
Sci-fi movies often present us with omniscient villains who are able to track the most minute actions of their underlings and foes. Rarely do we get a glimpse into their surveillance systems, but you have to imagine that some of the more rudimentary “employee evaluation” hardware will not be too far off from KDDI‘s latest. The Japanese cellphone giant has unveiled a new system, built around accelerometers, that can detect the difference between a cleaner scrubbing or sweeping a floor and merely walking along it. Based on new analytical software, stored remotely, this should provide not only accurate positional information about workers, but also a detailed breakdown of their activities. The benefits touted include “central monitoring, “salesforce optimisation,” and improvements in employee efficiency. We’re guessing privacy concerns were filed away in a collateral damage folder somewhere.
