Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Android tablets now available at 1,600 Gamestops, include free games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/26/android-tablets-now-available-at-1-600-gamestops-include-free-g/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/26/android-tablets-now-available-at-1-600-gamestops-include-free-g/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/26/android-tablets-now-available-at-1-600-gamestops-include-free-g/#comments ImageIt looks like that clandestine photo of a Gamestop computer replete with entries for Android devices has proven to be accurate, at least as far as tablets are concerned. Rather than stocking Samsung products exclusively, however, 1,600 Gamestops now carry Android tablets from Acer, Asus and Samsung; specifically the Asus Transformer and Transformer Prime, the Acer Iconia (both 7 and 10.1 versions), and the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1.

Each tablet comes pre-loaded with "a hand-picked selection of free games, like Sonic CD and Riptide, the Kongregate Arcade gaming app and a free issue of Game Informer Digital," according to the PR available after the break. Naturally, trade-in credit can be applied towards the purchase of one of these devices. Find out if one of your several dozen local Gamestops is a member of that 1,600-store collective by entering your zip-code here, and don't forget to do your research before plopping down several hundred clams on an iPad alternative.

Continue reading Android tablets now available at 1,600 Gamestops, include free games

JoystiqAndroid tablets now available at 1,600 Gamestops, include free games originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 26 May 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AcerandroidasusgamestopmobileSamsungtabletsSat, 26 May 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony and others looking to standardize active 3D glasses]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/sony-and-others-looking-to-standardize-active-3d-glasses/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/sony-and-others-looking-to-standardize-active-3d-glasses/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/sony-and-others-looking-to-standardize-active-3d-glasses/#comments
Like it or not, the world's biggest technology companies are convinced that active 3D (the kind that uses powered, liquid crystal glasses) is the next big thing; so much so that they're willing to put all of their techno-eggs into the same business-basket in order to prevent cross-manufacturer incompatibility killing the cause.

One of the few universal truths of the technology world is that the key to a burgeoning format's success is unification and compatibility. Proprietary technologies breed platform fragmentation, and when products aren't compatible with each other, people don't use them, and the format dies. Take USB, for example: USB is successful as a standard because everyone uses the same connectors and licenses the same underlying technologies. You can take a USB keyboard made by one manufacturer and plug it into a motherboard built by another, and it works. The same cannot be said, however, for the majority of 3D glasses in the world, and that's a big problem for a lot of big companies.

Continue reading Sony and others looking to standardize active 3D glasses

JoystiqSony and others looking to standardize active 3D glasses originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Aug 2011 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3D3D-glasses3DTVactive-shutteractive-shutter-glassesFull-HD-3D-Glasses-Initiativeglassesliquid-crystal-shutter-glassespanasonicsamsungsonyTVXPAND-3DXPAND3DMon, 08 Aug 2011 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Samsung manufacturing the PlayStation Vita CPU]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/29/report-samsung-manufacturing-the-playstation-vita-cpu/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/29/report-samsung-manufacturing-the-playstation-vita-cpu/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/29/report-samsung-manufacturing-the-playstation-vita-cpu/#comments For the PlayStation Vita, Sony is foregoing the hardware design strategies used for the PSP and PS3 -- custom, expensive, Sony-designed chips -- in favor of cheaper off-the-shelf hardware, which is one reason it can charge $250 for something that seems like it came from the future.

One example of this new strategy: a brief note on the Semiconductor Industry News site says that Samsung will manufacture the four-core ARM Cortex A9 CPU for the handheld, using a 45nm process. That saves Sony money on R&D, and saves us from having to read marketing about the purported magical abilities of another Sony chip like the "Emotion Engine" or the Cell.

JoystiqReport: Samsung manufacturing the PlayStation Vita CPU originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 Jul 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cpumanufacturingplaystationplaystation-vitaps-vitasamsungvitaFri, 29 Jul 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Samsung offering sacks of cash for mobile game ideas]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/29/samsung-offering-sacks-of-cash-for-mobile-game-ideas/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/29/samsung-offering-sacks-of-cash-for-mobile-game-ideas/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/29/samsung-offering-sacks-of-cash-for-mobile-game-ideas/#comments
It looks like Samsung is willing to pay as much as $250,000 to development teams or individuals for any mobile game pitches that eventually make it to the recently launched Samsung Application Store. According to Develop Online, Samsung has enlisted the help of mobile developer Handmark to help oversee the upcoming megaton of pitches, prototypes and products, as well as assist developers with production of their ideas for the platform.

Having lost a sizable chunk of the mobile consumer base to Apple, and more specifically the iTunes App Store, Samsung is now reaching into its pockets to ensure the company's slip in market share doesn't turn into a complete mudslide. "This is a fantastic opportunity for anyone, including big brands, mobile developers or any individual with a unique, creative idea to make it a reality," Handmark's senior VP of Global Sales, Chris Barnett said. If you're looking for advice on how not to pitch your idea, we have you covered.

JoystiqSamsung offering sacks of cash for mobile game ideas originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Oct 2009 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>app-storebusinesshandmarkmobilemobile-developmentmobile-gamingsamsungsamsung-application-storeThu, 29 Oct 2009 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Sci-Fi gaming show takes the physical challenge]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/29/new-sci-fi-gaming-show-takes-the-physical-challenge/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/29/new-sci-fi-gaming-show-takes-the-physical-challenge/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/29/new-sci-fi-gaming-show-takes-the-physical-challenge/#commentsFiled under:

The Sci-Fi Channel has partnered with Samsung and Granada America to hunt down the most well-rounded gamer in the United States as part of WCG GameQuest, a new "elimination-style" game show. Besides bragging rights (and sore thumbs), the winner of the "competition series" will also walk away with $100,000 and trips to attend future World Cyber Games events.

However, to survive the eight-episode tournament, contestants will not only have to stand up to the rigors of gameplay, but also real-life "physical challenges." We hope to see the gaming elite vie for superiority by plunging head first Double Dare-style into pools of slime when WCG GameQuest hits the airwaves in the first quarter of 2009.

JoystiqNew Sci-Fi gaming show takes the physical challenge originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Oct 2008 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>game-showgameshowsamsungsci-fi channelsci-fi-channelSci-fiChannelscifi channelscifichannelwcgwcg-gamequestWed, 29 Oct 2008 17:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumorang: Xbox 360 external Blu-ray drive ready, waiting]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/08/rumorang-xbox-360-external-blu-ray-drive-ready-waiting/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/08/rumorang-xbox-360-external-blu-ray-drive-ready-waiting/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/08/rumorang-xbox-360-external-blu-ray-drive-ready-waiting/#commentsFiled under: ,

blu-box
Aw, and we were just starting to miss our Blu-box graphic ... Sure enough, after several months of peaceful bliss, here we are again on the verge of an Xbox 360 Blu-ray announcement! Or not. Toshiba-Samsung Storage Technology Corp. (not to be confused with plain old "Toshiba Corp.," which is apparently "strictly against Blu-ray") has allegedly been contracted to manufacture an external Blu-ray drive for Xbox 360, reports X-bit labs. The drives are rumored to retail at around $100 to $150 in an attempt to cut into PlayStation 3 sales (combine a $150 drive with the Xbox 360 Arcade, for example, and the total cost would be $350).

X-bit labs speculates Microsoft may launch the external drive this holiday, but with reportedly low sales, Blu-ray could likely wait until a proper CES unveiling. Still, we've got TGS popping off in mere hours and Blu-ray's clock ticking down every day. No time to waste then?

JoystiqRumorang: Xbox 360 external Blu-ray drive ready, waiting originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Oct 2008 12:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blu-raybreakingnewsmicrosoftrumorangsamsungtoshibaXbox-360Wed, 08 Oct 2008 12:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Blu-ray has 'five years left' says Samsung]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/04/blu-ray-has-five-years-left-says-samsung/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/04/blu-ray-has-five-years-left-says-samsung/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/04/blu-ray-has-five-years-left-says-samsung/#commentsFiled under: ,

Samsung UK consumer electronics boss Andy Griffiths doesn't see a lengthy lifespan for the Blu-ray format. Speaking to Pocket-lint, he said, "I think it [Blu-ray] has 5 years left, I certainly wouldn't give it 10." 10 years as in the product cycle Sony has mapped out for PS3, which features Blu-ray as a core technology?

Griffiths' prediction could very well be accurate, but consider DVD, a format that is still going strong 12 years after the first player launched in Japan in 1996. To put things in perspective, Blu-ray players only hit the scene two years ago. With adoption of HDTVs continuing at a steady pace and that whole victory over HD-DVD thing, the format (for video, at least) has to have at least six years left in it.

JoystiqBlu-ray has 'five years left' says Samsung originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Sep 2008 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blu-rayPS3samsungThu, 04 Sep 2008 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Samsung director believes Blu-ray has '5 years left']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/04/samsung-director-believes-blu-ray-has-5-years-left/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/04/samsung-director-believes-blu-ray-has-5-years-left/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/04/samsung-director-believes-blu-ray-has-5-years-left/#commentsFiled under:


While the HD format wars are over, Blu-ray still has a long way to go before it can tackle its main competitor: DVD. Many consumers still haven't converted to Sony's next-gen format, and Samsung UK director Andy Griffiths doesn't believe there's much time left for Sony's format. "I think it [Blu-ray] has 5 years left, I certainly wouldn't give it 10", Griffiths told Pocket-lint in an interview.

The time to capitalize on Blu-ray is now, the Samsung head said. "It's going to be huge", he told Pocket-lint. "We are heavily back-ordered at the moment." The company is one of few that's heavily invested in the format, with numerous Blu-ray players available on the market.

There will always be new formats on the horizon, but we find it unlikely that Blu-ray will extinguish in so little time. With HD adoption still slowly growing, so too will Blu-ray's momentum. Regardless, it'll be interesting to see where home video stands in the next decade.

[Via Engadget]

JoystiqSamsung director believes Blu-ray has '5 years left' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Sep 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blu-raysamsungThu, 04 Sep 2008 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Joyswag: Samsung 22" widescreen LCD monitor]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/04/joyswag-samsung-22-widescreen-lcd-monitor/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/04/joyswag-samsung-22-widescreen-lcd-monitor/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/04/joyswag-samsung-22-widescreen-lcd-monitor/#commentsFiled under:

samsung
According to Samsung, the T220 display "looks more like a beautiful piece of art than a monitor." So, even if you're satisfied with the screen you've already got, why not enter for your chance to win this little marvel of modern art -- it looks great on the wall or the coffee table! And who knows, you may even use it one day ... (Geek out on the full specs here.)

To enter this giveaway:
  • Leave a comment telling us what kinda "art" you've got hanging on your walls.
  • You must be 18 years or older and a resident of the US or Canada (excluding Quebec).
  • Limit 1 entry per person per calendar day (exceed limit and you'll be disqualified).
  • This entry period ends at 6:00pm ET on Monday, August 18th. We'll randomly select one winner at that time who will receive a Samsung T220 monitor (MSRP: $330) -- please check your email!
  • For a list of complete rules, click here.

JoystiqJoyswag: Samsung 22" widescreen LCD monitor originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Aug 2008 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>joyswaglcdmonitorsamsungt220Mon, 04 Aug 2008 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Samsung releasing Xbox 360 TV this Fall]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/27/rumor-samsung-releasing-xbox-360-tv-this-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/27/rumor-samsung-releasing-xbox-360-tv-this-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/27/rumor-samsung-releasing-xbox-360-tv-this-fall/#commentsFiled under:

You remember the rumor that hit the interwebs yesterday regarding Microsoft allowing third party manufacturers to incorporate the Xbox 360 in other products? Well, today we bring you yet another rumor that piggybacks the third party manufacturer rumor which ultimately makes it a rumor based on a rumor that can't be confirmed. Confusion aside and simply put, Samsung is rumored to be releasing an Xbox 360 integrated television this Fall.

Coming from the guys over at MAXCONSOLE comes word that Samsung is developing an Xbox 360 built into a LCD television called the X-Series and will feature 4 USB ports, 512MB HDD and is set to release this November in both the US and Europe. Interesting, no? Our official take on this Xbox 360 TV rumor is that it's a quick photoshop job and is complete bologna. Especially the fact that it'll only use a 512MB HDD, because we don't think they even manufacture 512MB hard drives anymore. Pessimism is all the rage.

JoystiqRumor: Samsung releasing Xbox 360 TV this Fall originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 27 Jun 2008 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>samsungtelevisionxbox-360Fri, 27 Jun 2008 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Tallyho, guv'na -- UK Smash Showdown at Gamestation]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/17/tallyho-guvna-uk-smash-showdown-at-gamestation/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/17/tallyho-guvna-uk-smash-showdown-at-gamestation/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/17/tallyho-guvna-uk-smash-showdown-at-gamestation/#commentsFiled under:

If you like Super Smash Bros. Brawl, and you happen to live in the UK, then this announcement might have some kind of connection with you. Twenty Gamestation stores across the nation will each be hosting a 64-person Super Smash Bros. Showdown on June 28. This is no slouchy, bored-marketing-guy tournament either. Every winner from every store will take home a 40" Samsung LCD TV and a Samsung Home Theater System, with all the DVD and surround sound trimmings.

Tournaments are great and all, but this one is really something else. The prizes are actually extremely good, and you only need to win six matches to take home the grand prize. Only one Fanboy blogger lives in the UK, but fortunately he is awful at Brawl. In fact, he doesn't even own the game. Or pants.

Register for your local tournament at the official website -- it's probably going to fill up fast, so make like a tree and hurry.


[Via press release]

JoystiqTallyho, guv'na -- UK Smash Showdown at Gamestation originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Jun 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brawlcompetitionenglandgamestationsamsungssbbsuper-smash-bros-brawltournamentukTue, 17 Jun 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Samsung brings Second Life to smartphones]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/02/samsung-brings-second-life-to-smartphones/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/02/samsung-brings-second-life-to-smartphones/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/02/samsung-brings-second-life-to-smartphones/#commentsFiled under: , ,


For every story we post about Second Life's various troubles, there's always another story about one company or another arriving late to the SL bandwagon. So, following up our news of Phillip Rosedale's resignation as CEO, we have word that Samsung will be including technology to run Second Life on its line of smartphones.

The technology is being shown off at the CTIA wireless event this week in Las Vegas, and will allow users to access the 3D world of Second Life, as well as communicate with in-game avatars via text and SMS. The application is due to launch on Samsung phones running Softboard software in the second half of this year. Huzzah?

[Via GayGamer]

JoystiqSamsung brings Second Life to smartphones originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Apr 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>linden-labMobilesamsungsecond-lifesecondlifeWed, 02 Apr 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Playing Xbox 360 with your Wii remote]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/07/playing-xbox-360-with-your-wii-remote/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/07/playing-xbox-360-with-your-wii-remote/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/07/playing-xbox-360-with-your-wii-remote/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

An adventurous and skillful modder has managed to turn a Wii remote into an Xbox 360 controller with middleware help from the PS2 control scheme -- it's as if all the console makers are working in harmony for this one hack. Try humming this to the tune of "Dem Bones" (actually, don't, because we're not even going to try to fit the rhyme scheme):
  • The Xbox 360 is connected to the XFPS PS2 to 360 adapter
  • ... which is connected to a big black box Microcontroller "with custom firmware emulating a PS2 controller"
  • ... which is connected to a Samsung Q1 PC with custom Wii remote firmware
  • ... which is connected via Bluetooth to the Wii remote itself.
Full details of the process can be found here. A video demonstration is embedded after the break that not only shows the control scheme work with Halo 2 but also the thought put into making it a comfortable and viable control scheme (such as anti-acceleration and smoothing algorithms).

[Via Engadget; thanks, Chris]

Continue reading Playing Xbox 360 with your Wii remote

JoystiqPlaying Xbox 360 with your Wii remote originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 Aug 2007 17:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bluetoothdualshockhackshalohalo2modsPCPS2samsungWiiwiimotewiiremoteXbox-360xfpsTue, 07 Aug 2007 17:25:00 EST<![CDATA[CNET offers HDTV suggestions for your PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/29/cnet-offers-hdtv-suggestions-for-your-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/29/cnet-offers-hdtv-suggestions-for-your-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/29/cnet-offers-hdtv-suggestions-for-your-ps3/#commentsFiled under:


The first purchase of an HDTV can be stressful, especially factoring in the plethora of options, specifications, screen sizes, manufacturers and types of HDTV technology. Knowing which HDTV is best suited for gaming and the Blu-ray experience can be daunting so we're absolutely delighted to see assistance and suggestions on HDTV selection. CNET's latest recommendations came out about a week ago but it's a great read. They appear to favor LCD technology, with two recommended sets from Samsung and one from Sharp. Sony's own XBR line provides the LCoS/SXRD alternative, while Panasonic brings up two fine looking plasma sets. While these reviews are quite in-depth, it would be highly recommended to view the set yourself before making any snap judgments.

In case you seek additional help, we've linked additional reading for your research.
IGN.com HDTV Q&A
PS3 Forums HDTV Suggestions
AVS Forum PS3, HDMI and HDTV compatibility

As always, we're curious to learn more about our community and welcome feedback. Which HDTV are you using (or do you plan to use) for all your PS3 pleasures?

JoystiqCNET offers HDTV suggestions for your PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 May 2007 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cnetdlphdtvlcospanasonicplasmarear-projectionsamsungsharpsonysxrdTue, 29 May 2007 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Newegg gives free PS3 with purchase of Samsung TV]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/11/newegg-gives-free-ps3-with-purchase-of-samsung-tv/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/11/newegg-gives-free-ps3-with-purchase-of-samsung-tv/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/11/newegg-gives-free-ps3-with-purchase-of-samsung-tv/#commentsFiled under: ,


In the market for an HDTV? How about making it a Samsung and getting a free PS3 system alongside your new HDTV? While supplies last, popular online retailer Newegg wants to give away a free PS3 system with each purchase of an LCD Samsung 46" 1080p television. The Samsung model seems to be well reviewed by those very same people who purchased the unit, and what better way to watch your Blu-Ray movies than with a brand new "full HD" 1080p television? Don't sit on the fence with this one. You can be guaranteed a deal like this will not last for very long. Free PS3's, people!!!

[Via digg]

JoystiqNewegg gives free PS3 with purchase of Samsung TV originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 May 2007 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1080pfree PS3FreePs3hdtvLCDneweggsamsungFri, 11 May 2007 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask PSP Fanboy: Volume 17]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/28/ask-psp-fanboy-volume-17/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/28/ask-psp-fanboy-volume-17/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/28/ask-psp-fanboy-volume-17/#commentsFiled under:


Every Saturday, PSP Fanboy will answer your burning questions. If you have a question for the team, send an e-mail to andrew @ pspfanboy.com with the subject "Ask PSP Fanboy." NOTE: We do NOT answer questions related to downloading illegal copies of games. Stop asking.

Q: I heard that the original SHARP-brand LCDs were superior to the Samsung LCDs being used in the current models. Is there any truth to these claims?
A: This is a popular discussion that's hard to follow up on, simply because its not easy to get two PSP systems from the two regions side by side. There's one picture that's used frequently to showcase the difference, but it's considered fake by many. Even people on the AVS Forums have conflicting opinions about the validity of such claims. Sorry for the lack of an answer, but suffice it to say, both screens manufactured for PSP are fantastic.


Is this picture real? The difference seems too drastic. (Click for high-res.)

Two tiny little questions after the break.

Continue reading Ask PSP Fanboy: Volume 17

JoystiqAsk PSP Fanboy: Volume 17 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 28 Apr 2007 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>asklcdsamsungsharpSat, 28 Apr 2007 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumorang: PSP2 rocking 60GB hard drive]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/29/rumorang-psp2-rocking-60gb-hard-drive/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/29/rumorang-psp2-rocking-60gb-hard-drive/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/29/rumorang-psp2-rocking-60gb-hard-drive/#commentsFiled under:


Thanks to the always reliable services of machine translation and Powerpoint slides, we're free to speculate on the possible inclusion of Samsung's new -- and, at 1.8", diminutive -- 60GB hard drive making its way into the PSP. Of course, we heard rumors of a 50GB PSP2 nearly two years ago, with rumors of mini PSPs, flash-based PSPs, touch-screen PSPs and, according to PlayStation Magazine, a Samsung flash-based PSP2 since then. Did Samsung let something slip in their slideshow? Perhaps that flash deal led to the creation of this new drive, engineered specifically for this application? There's an awful lot of smoke around this one ...

[Via PSP Fanboy]

JoystiqRumorang: PSP2 rocking 60GB hard drive originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 Dec 2006 13:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>PSPPSP2RumorangSamsungFri, 29 Dec 2006 13:53:00 EST<![CDATA[Samsung hints at hard disk-enhanced PSP]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/29/samsung-hints-at-hard-disk-enhanced-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/29/samsung-hints-at-hard-disk-enhanced-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/29/samsung-hints-at-hard-disk-enhanced-psp/#commentsFiled under:


Do you see what I see? There seems to be a very familiar looking portable device in that girl's hands. This photo was taken at Samsung's announcement of new portable hard drive tech. The 60GB version of Samsung's 1.8" N-series drives may end up in a future PSP revision, which should be enough to satiate you with days, if not weeks, of music and games and porn.

[Via Engadget]

JoystiqSamsung hints at hard disk-enhanced PSP originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 Dec 2006 00:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>60 gb60Gbengadgethard driveHardDriven-seriespspsamsungFri, 29 Dec 2006 00:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Don't expect any HD-DVD's by Samsung or LG Electronics]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/20/dont-expect-any-hd-dvds-by-samsung-or-lg-electronics/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/20/dont-expect-any-hd-dvds-by-samsung-or-lg-electronics/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/20/dont-expect-any-hd-dvds-by-samsung-or-lg-electronics/#commentsFiled under: ,

This might be a couple of days old and not entirely unexpected, but there's no saying "I will love you forever" than taking the risk of dying with your partner. That's what Samsung has done with Sony and Blu-ray -- they're taking the deep dive together. Samsung has announced it plans to support Blu-ray 100%, never releasing or supporting HD-DVD. They also have no intention to develop the combo devices that play both formats (which is entirely possible, but for some reason, the DVD war has to continue... sigh). Korea-based LG Electronics also has sided with Sony and Samsung, stating they won't be making any HD-DVD players. Seems that it won't be the lack of movie sales that will decide the winner -- it'll be the lack of players!

[Thanks to those who sent this in!]

JoystiqDon't expect any HD-DVD's by Samsung or LG Electronics originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 Nov 2006 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Blu-rayLG ElectronicsLgElectronicsPlaystation 3Playstation3PS3SamsungSonyMon, 20 Nov 2006 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[With our powers combined... Blu-ray + HD-DVD [UPDATED]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/27/with-our-powers-combined-blu-ray-hd-dvd/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/27/with-our-powers-combined-blu-ray-hd-dvd/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/27/with-our-powers-combined-blu-ray-hd-dvd/#commentsFiled under: ,

Some want it, others don't. Either way, Sony is going to get Blu-ray into your home one way or another. That's their plan anyway, thanks to the PlayStation 3. Like we've said before, it's not just about the games this time and Sony is in it for the long haul.

That's what makes this little bit of information so intriguing. What would happen if a Blu-ray partner like Samsung, who is technically not supposed to mess with HD-DVD, decides to foster a partnership with Toshiba in an attempt to make a hybrid player? Everyone is talking format wars with HD-DVD and Blu-ray going head-to-head. But what happens when you have a machine that can play both?

Having a dual-player would essentially take the "war" out of the formats. And with Sony trying to smuggle their medium into homes via the next-gen PlayStation, how is this move going to affect their strategy? It gets even more interesting with talks about making an HD-DVD/Blu-ray hybrid disc to go along with it. The kicker is this: Sony knows the PS3 is a good deal, as a Blu-ray platform, as they're trying to appeal to non-gamers with it as well. But would non-gamers still want to invest if they can have their cake and eat it too with a hybrid machine that can play both formats?

[UPDATE: Well, looks like you can cut through this rumor like a knife through warm butter. Check this out for the skinny on the mess. So all of the above is more of a hypothetical scenario. Yeah, that's it-]

JoystiqWith our powers combined... Blu-ray + HD-DVD [UPDATED] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 Jun 2006 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blublu-raydvdhdhd-dvdplayerplayersplaystationps3raysamsungsonytoshibaTue, 27 Jun 2006 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[360 DVD firmware hack now hits Hitachi drives [update 1]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/15/360-dvd-firmware-hack-now-hits-hitachi-drives/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/15/360-dvd-firmware-hack-now-hits-hitachi-drives/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/15/360-dvd-firmware-hack-now-hits-hitachi-drives/#commentsFiled under:

The firmware hack that was revealed back in March has a new target. Previously the hack could only be executed on 360 units containing a Samsung DVD drive, while the new hack works on 360s containing the Hitachi-LG drive as well. While I personally don't condone this practice (developers work hard for their money), it should be available now. For the less ethically inclined among you, keep this in mind: using this hack will void your warranty and likely get you banned from Live. There's even the possibility that future dashboard updates could brick a hacked console entirely.

Don't say we didn't warn you.

Update: contributor AoE has pointed out -- rather snarkily -- that this firmware hack is only for 360s with a Hitachi-LG drive.

[Via Xboxic]

Joystiq360 DVD firmware hack now hits Hitachi drives [update 1] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Jun 2006 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>360firmware hacksFirmwareHackshitachisamsungThu, 15 Jun 2006 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Poll results: Hitachi drives rule the roost, Samsung ain't so quiet]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/02/poll-results-hitachi-drives-rule-the-roost-samsung-aint-so-qu/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/02/poll-results-hitachi-drives-rule-the-roost-samsung-aint-so-qu/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/02/poll-results-hitachi-drives-rule-the-roost-samsung-aint-so-qu/#commentsFiled under:


Well, it looks like most of us are proud owners of the (reportedly) louder Hitachi drive. While we won't disagree that the Hitachi drive is loud, many of our readers disagree that the Samsung drive is quiet. Simon writes, "Well I have the Samsung but it isn't anywhere near what I'd call quiet."; Todd agrees, "my Samsung [is] LOUD too, I have it sitting next to my G5 Mac and that thing definitely takes over in the sound department when on." The list goes on and on.

So there's two different drives and both are apparently pretty loud. There have to be some trade offs for the increased 12x read speed; loud drive or fast load times?

JoystiqPoll results: Hitachi drives rule the roost, Samsung ain't so quiet originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 02 Apr 2006 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DVD DriveDvdDriveHitachipollPoll resultsPollResultsSamsungSun, 02 Apr 2006 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Samsung debuts new 32GB Flash drive]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/21/samsung-debuts-new-32gb-flash-drive/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/21/samsung-debuts-new-32gb-flash-drive/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/21/samsung-debuts-new-32gb-flash-drive/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Samsung NAND flash driveBack in September, Samsung Electronics introduced the first 16GB NAND Flash-based memory device. Today, at the Samsung Mobile Solution Forum in Taipei, the South Korean-based manufacturer demonstrated a 32GB notebook version of the solid state disk.

These mini marvels require only 5% of the power needed for today's hard disk drives, and are projected to hit storage capacities of 100GB by next year. They also read data three times faster than hard disks, which will make them appealing to desktop and console gamers, as well as road warriors.

JoystiqSamsung debuts new 32GB Flash drive originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Mar 2006 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>flashmemorynandPCsamsungsolid state diskssdstorageTue, 21 Mar 2006 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fanboy Poll: What brand is your 360's DVD drive?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/13/fanboy-poll-what-brand-is-your-360s-dvd-drive/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/13/fanboy-poll-what-brand-is-your-360s-dvd-drive/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/13/fanboy-poll-what-brand-is-your-360s-dvd-drive/#commentsFiled under:


Llamma has posted some images of the two different DVD drives being offered in the Xbox 360: on the left is the newer, and quieter, Samsung drive (model #TS-H943), easily identified by its unique drive-tray and ninja-like stealth. On the right is the Hitachi (model #GDR-3120L), easily identified by the notches on its drive tray, and the ear-splitting noise it produces when it really gets going.

Are the drives being replaced across the product line, or will they continue to use the Hitachi drive as well? And what about you, dear reader, what's in your 360?
 
What DVD drive is in your 360?
Enjoying the smooth sounds of Samsung.
What? I can't hear you! I think it's a Hitachi.
I don't have a 360, jerks!
  
[Via Xbox-Scene]

Continue reading Fanboy Poll: What brand is your 360's DVD drive?

JoystiqFanboy Poll: What brand is your 360's DVD drive? originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 13 Mar 2006 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DVDHitachiSamsungMon, 13 Mar 2006 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony to ship 20M PSPs in 2006]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/01/11/sony-to-ship-20m-psps-in-2006/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/01/11/sony-to-ship-20m-psps-in-2006/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/01/11/sony-to-ship-20m-psps-in-2006/#commentsFiled under:

A representative from Samsung today revealed that Sony plans to ship 20 million PSP units in 2006. Hwang Chang Gyu, head of the Korean company's semiconductor division, was part of an equally large serving of news last year when he announced during a press conference that both companies were ensconced in one of the largest flash chip manufacturing deals ever made, purportedly even more grandiose than the one Samsung originally had with Apple Computers (a partnership which imploded when rival tech companies in Korean whined and pouted about "unfair practices"). Sony declined to comment on the news, stating only that they've already shipped 10 million units so far.

 C'mon, Sony. What's another paltry 10 million additional units gonna cost you? Once you release Gran Turismo for PSP we promise we'll get all our friends to buy a unit and put together one gigantic honking multiplayer party.

JoystiqSony to ship 20M PSPs in 2006 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Jan 2006 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>flash chipsmanufacturingSamsungSonyWed, 11 Jan 2006 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSP pricing drop next year?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2005/12/27/psp-pricing-drop-next-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2005/12/27/psp-pricing-drop-next-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2005/12/27/psp-pricing-drop-next-year/#commentsFiled under:

An article released yesterday from news source Bloomberg reported that Sony is currently chatting Samsung up about increasing their purchase of flash chips from the Korean company. The deal, which appears to be even bigger than the one Apple Computer struck with Samsung recently, could account for one-fifth of Samsung's NAND chip production, an arrangement that could potentially mean around $1.8 billion for Samsung's coffers. While Sony reports that the chips are for a new line of 8 GB MP3 players, the news suggests that Sony may be considering dropping the price on PSPs to meet their goals of doubling sales in 2006. The bulk purchase of the chips makes them cheaper individually, which means that the Big S may be able to shave off a few dollars per unit sold. Nothing's certain yet, but seeing as the main complaint everyone has about the PSP is its price, it seems likely that Sony will be able to push more of the consoles into gamer's hands at a cheaper, more competitive price point.

[via Punch Jump]

[UPDATE:] Read up on Engadget's take on the news.

JoystiqPSP pricing drop next year? originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 Dec 2005 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>flash chipsNANDSamsungSonyTue, 27 Dec 2005 15:00:00 EST