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XtremeNotebooks launches all-in-one XN1 PC
Keepin' with the funky fresh crowd, XtremeNotebooks is unleashing an all-in-one PC of its own, and while it may have some form of identity crisis coming from a laptop manufacturer, there's really no portable nature to this one. Nevertheless, the XN1 consists of a 22-inch WSXGA+ (1,680 x 1,050) LCD HDTV display which is jam packed with an Intel Core 2 Extreme processor, 1GB of DDR2 RAM, up to 2TB of built-in HDD space, an optional 256MB NVIDIA GeForce Go 7600 graphics card and HD DVD drive, gigabit Ethernet and WiFi. As for ports, you'll find eSATA, four USB 2.0 sockets, ExpressCard, 4-pin FireWire, a coaxial jack for the TV tuner, and the usual assortment of AV inputs / outputs. The XN1 is available now starting at $1,599, or you can scale back with a 19-inch version that gets going at $1,489.[Via I4U News]
DirecTV's CEDIA booth tour
There's just no way to followup a visit to Dish Network's booth than to hit up DirecTV directly afterwards, eh? Sadly, DirecTV's space was packed to the brim with individuals and an excessive amount of TVs, but we squeaked our way through the madness to get some shots of the company's HR21 Pro, which touts a sexy black chassis, a slew of ports in the rear, and interestingly enough, Viiv-certification. Oh, and the only murmurs we heard about the next big rollout of channels involved the phrase "between next week and next year."%Gallery-7069%
Intel announces simplified product-naming scheme
It looks like Intel has come to the realization that its product naming scheme has gotten a little out of hand and, as Ars Technica reports, it's now taking some measures to simplify things a bit. Apparently, Core 2 Quad, Core 2 Duo, and Core 2 Solo will all simply be known as "Core 2" starting on January 1st, 2008 (presumably with some other means to differentiate then), and Intel Viiv Processor Technology and Intel vPro Processor Technology will henceforth be known as Intel Core 2 Duo Processor with Viiv (or vPro). Further on down the line, Pentium D and Pentium Dual-Core will both be shortened to just "Pentium," while the server-centric Itanium 2 gets demoted to plain old "Itanium." According to Ars, Core 2 Extreme, Celeron, and Xeon will all stay as they are. Simple, right?
Voting opens on $1M Intel challenge
We're all a pretty critical lot when it comes to design, right? Well now's your chance to let your refined sense of taste show by voting on a selection of Mini PC designs. Intel's Core Processor Challenge has narrowed down a field of Viiv certified Core 2 Duo mini PCs to a shortlist of ten. Of these, only seven (for some oddball reason) are pictured on the challenge web site for voting. Of course, you won't find the Mac mini in the running since it's not Viiv certified, but that doesn't explain the missing Kapsel. Nevertheless, an art deco design from Slipperyskip Computers (top-left) is currently in the lead. Will they take home the the $1,000,000 prize? Have your say -- click the read link below and get out to vote. The winner will be unveiled on April, 20th.[Via Reg Hardware]
Acer Aspire L320 mini PC touts Viiv certification
Every time you think the Viiv hype is dying down, Acer brings it back up, as just a few months after kicking out the "world's first" Viiv-certified LCD TV, the firm is now unveiling its Aspire L320 mini PC with -- you guessed it -- a shiny Viiv sticker adorning its case. Hot on the heels of its xSeries displays, this machine sports a slim, silver / black case designed for living room placement, a variety of Intel Pentium processors, up to 2GB of DDR2 RAM, up to 400GB of internal hard drive capacity, an Acer-branded digital / analog hybrid TV tuner, DVD writer, flash card reader, and a bevy of included ho hum software that you'll likely replace immediately upon bootup. Additionally, it sports 7.1-channel audio, Intel's GMA 3000 graphics set, VGA / DVI outputs, an option to add Windows Vista, FireWire, audio in / out, and a pair of USB 2.0 ports to round things out. No word just yet on price or availability, but this ought to be a fairly inexpensive alternative for those eying a very basic (and fairly attractive) pre-fab HTPC.[Via RegHardware]
Albatron showcasing Nano Abox V2.0 Mini-PC at CeBIT
It looks like Asus' LED-backlit laptop and NVIDIA's three-way SLI will have to share the limelight with someone else at CeBIT, as Albatron is planning to showcase its wee Nano Abox V2.0 Mini-PC for literal computing on the go. While not quite a laptop per se, this miniature PC has a 6.1- x 3.4-inch LCD screen flanking the top, and while a brief glance may bring back delightful memories of the Wii laptop design, this multimedia-centric device isn't just fun and games. Aside from boasting Viiv certification, it packs an Intel Core 2 Duo processor, up to 2GB of DDR2 RAM, integrated graphics, DVI output, eight-channel audio, USB 2.0, FireFire, and gigabit Ethernet. Of course, no pricing or availability details have yet been divulged, but if you're looking for an average HTPC that can hit the road without taking up too much space, Albatron's got you covered.[Via 64-Bit-Computers]
One year with Viiv and still no traction?
During last years CES, there was one question that was constantly asked, "What is Viiv?". After one year after it's announcement it doesn't seem like it has gained much traction in the marketplace. While DirecTV also showed a Viiv compatible box at last years CES and there were even reports of the Viiv features on the HR20 last month. Now DirecTV is announcing that Viiv features on the HR20 are currently available as a public beta trial to all DirecTV Plus HD DVR customers. What really makes this interesting is the fact that they claim to be the "largest supplier of Viiv-verified digital media adapters", which can't be good news considering it is still in beta. We can only assume this means it is the only Viiv-verified digital media adapter. With all the media adapters announced who will end up in front? If you can't wait to try it out it's available in the latest firmware which is a manual update.
Russound and Lifeware join forces to create Media Console
Every few months it seems like some company comes out with some new hotsy-totsy media server setup. CES is no exception, with Russound and Lifeware announcing that they're putting their heads together to create the Viiv-compliant Media Console, complete with a keypad that can display metadata. We don't know much about what exactly these consoles can do (as in specs), nor what they'll cost, but CEPro reports that the higher-end systems will be around $6,000 or $7,000, with two other more inexpensive models sometime in May or June of this year. That said, ZDNET spied a demo model with a Russound multi-zone audio distribution system along with a trio of Lifeware components in a concept house -- however, while the reporter was checking it out, the system had to be rebooted in order while MCE froze. So on second thought, a waiting for a few months might not be such a bad idea after all. [Via ZDNET]
I-O Data launches wired, Viiv-certified AVeL LinkPlayer2
We're not exactly sure who'd spring for a completely wired version of a media streamer these days, especially with all the wireless renditions already out there, but I-O Data is officially launching its AVeL LinkPlayer2 for Intel Viiv anyway. Designed to stream audio and video over a wired Ethernet connection from your PC to your TV, this device supports HD streaming (1080i / 720p), WMV9HD, MPEG2-TS, and DivX HD, but recommends a Viiv-certified HTPC to be the sender of the data. Aside from the lack of WiFi, it also strangely lacks an HDMI port (and subsequently, HDCP support) and includes a component output instead, but you can connect external hard drives via USB 2.0 and stream files stored locally across your TV set as well as view standard DVDs via the built-in DVD player. Nevertheless, this admittedly less-than-attractive device can be snapped up later on this month for $279, but do take note of the "Viiv sticker" requirement that's supposed to be found on your connected PC (and try not to chuckle).[Via DailyTech]
DirecTV now friendly with Viiv boxes, other PCs to come?
After DirecTV's long-awaited HR20 HD DVR finally got its rightful announcements and actually hit users' hands, it wasn't too long before folks were plugging and praying in hopes of getting their new toy to play nice with that HTPC beside it. While we knew the two firms had gone hand-in-hand awhile back, we finally got the thumbs-up that a new, Viiv-alicious DirecTV Plus HD DVR would be unveiled soon to interact out-of-the-box with Viiv-enabled systems, but more importantly, that a software update was coming to the plain ole HR20s to accomplish the same thing. The time has come, and users are reporting over at DBSTalk that the "0x108 software" has opened up the Ethernet port for use, and allows browsing / connections via a Viiv-certified machine, but definitely made things difficult for those not exactly keen on shelling out for a few new components. Nevertheless, there's already been somewhat of a workaround worked out, which allows PCs with just Windows MCE installed to "see" the HR20, but not "serve up files in a way that HR20 can work with," which we're all but certain will change as the wheels spin in owners' heads. Reportedly, DirecTV is establishing a dedicated website to getting folks up and running with the new connectivity options, and be sure to keep an eye on the linked thread for any "future developments" regarding non-Viiv-savvy PCs.[Via PVRWire]
Acer's AT3705 becomes first LCD TV to receive Viiv certification
While we're still firm believers that nobody is exactly certain what all this Viiv fuss is about, Acer has been labeled the first producer of a Viiv-certified LCD TV, which "tests for compatibility of networked media devices with Intel Viiv technology-based PCs while sharing content over a home network." The 37-inch, HD-ready AT3705 is marketed as "the first LCD TV that integrates digital TV with media gateway functionality," and reportedly plays back content such as recorded digital TV broadcasts and "protected media" purchased at content service providers thanks to its support for DTCP-IP (Digital Transmission Content Protection over IP). Essentially, the set allows seamless playback of protected content stored on Viiv-enabled HTPCs, presumably providing one more headache when trying to watch last week's OTA HD broadcast of The Office. Regardless, we're sure the content guardians are lovin' it, and Acer will gladly take any sort of praise it can get, but we're not so sure this (yet-to-be-priced) set is as spectacular (or useful) as the firm would lead you to believe.[Via CEPro]
Pcalchemy intros Alchemy Series media PCs
Pcalchemey's (yeah, that's how they spell it) busted out a new line of configurable Media Center PCs, with four different models in its Alchemy Series available to tweak to your liking (and budget). Regardless of the model you choose, you'll get a Core 2 Duo processor (from a T5600 on the low end all the way up to an E6700), along with Intel Viiv technology, Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005, and a Gyration Media Center Remote, which, as you may know, uses motion sensing gyroscopic technology to control cursor/mouse movement in addition to the usual up/down, left/right action (no sensor bar necessary). Prices start at $1,499 for the low-end Alchemy RE, which also happens to be the smallest unit (pictured after the break), all the way up to $2899 for the default config on the Alchemy XE (seen above), although you can bump that price up even further if you opt for some of the pricier upgrades, like a Blu-ray burner, or an extra half terrabyte of storage if the standard 1TB isn't enough for ya.
Asus rolls out its first media center PC: the Viiv-certified Asteio D22
Redirecting those engineering efforts away from svelte notebooks and UMPCs, Asus has unveiled a slightly different beast in the form of its first media center PC. Apparently wanting to grab a piece of the ever-developing market while it still can, the Viiv-certified Asteio D22 is hitting the HTPC realm with a solid reputation and a fairly impressive list of specs. Although the case does indeed resemble a second-generation VCR, it probably won't clash too badly with your other fine AV components, and we all know it's the innards that count. Powered by an Intel E6300 Core 2 Duo processor, the machine also touts 1GB of DDR2 RAM, a 250GB SATA drive, 16x dual-layer DVD burner, "13-in-1" flash card reader, 802.11b/g, gigabit Ethernet, dual TV tuners, and even a discrete nVidia GeForce 7600GS graphics card. It's also packing some serious heat in the port department, as it sports 4-pin FireWire, microphone in, stereo out, a plethora of USB 2.0 connectors, VGA, DVI, composite, component, S-Video, HDMI (1080p-ready), and 7.1 surround sound via the optical / coaxial digital audio outputs. Additionally, Asus throws in a wireless keyboard with touchpad and a Windows XP MCE remote to control your PVR addiction. All these niceties will certainly demand a premium, however, as the Asteio D22 will set you back $2,999 when it hits shelves later this month.[Via RegHardware]
Intel says, 'Let Apple be Apple.'
Eric Kim, senior vice president and general manager of Intel's Digital Home Group, was talking up Intel's relationship with Apple, as well as their Viiv platform at CEATEC. He praised Apple's success at melding the personal computer with consumer electronics, but he told the attendees that they should embrace open standards as opposed to Apple's closed system.Kim said that Intel has a saying about Apple, 'Let Apple be Apple,' clearly he thinks that lightning won't strike twice. Intel wants electronics manufacturers to design open systems with the Viiv at their core. However, Intel is happy to help both closed systems (like Apple's) and open ones.
Intel, Omnicom bringing "10 foot" ads to on-demand Viiv content
Intel and Omnicom Media Group look to be bringing a little more advertising into your life, announcing that they're collaborating on so-called "10 foot" advertising templates for on-demand content delivered to Viiv-based computers. Details are a bit sketchy, with an actual roll-out still months (or more) away, but the deal could apparently include both video and interactive advertisements, in addition to more traditional banner-type adverts -- all of which Intel says will be both "highly targeted" and "relevant". The hope here is, of course, to make Viiv a more attractive platform for content providers -- carving out a middle ground between the free-for-all model and tougher-to-crack subscription or pay-per-use options on opposite sides of the spectrum.[Thanks, Ash]
Gateway gets their game on for cheap with new DX420 desktops
These new DX420 boxes from Gateway aren't going to be breathing down Alienware's neck anytime soon, but the prices sure aren't bad for what you get, and the units shouldn't do too bad of a job as a media hub or for a bit of casual fragging. Starting at $599, the desktops all feature Core 2 Duo processors, WMCE '05, Viiv 1.6 chipsets, 9-in-1 media readers, DVD burners and plenty of expansion slots. For the base unit you get a 1.86GHz E6300 chip, 512MB of RAM, a 160GB 7200 RPM HDD and a 256MB NVIDIA GeForce 7300LE graphics card. Luckily, Gateway lets you outfit one of these with most of the relevant trimmings, including 4GB of RAM, a 256MB GeForce 7600GS graphics card, dual 750GB drives and a TV tuner, with a bit of room left for expansions of your own. Gateway should be shipping these now, though you'll have to wait until October 19th to get one of those 750 giggers.
DirecTV, Intel to connect DVRs with Viiv PCs
In case 80 cores doesn't get you going, perhaps this will: in other news to come out of the Intel Developers Forum, DirecTV and Intel are joining forces to produce the DirecTV Plus HD DVR -- which we first heard about all the way back at CES -- allowing viewers to check out content via the interweb when connected to a Viiv PC. In addition, there will be a new software update for DirecTV subscribers by the end of the year that turns subscribers' set-top-boxes into digital media adapters, the companies said in a press release earlier today. The new DVR, to be released later this fall, will capture 200 hours of standard definition programming or 50 hours of HD, or whatever combination of the two your little heart desires.[Via CNET]
Intel targeting home media users with Bearlake G+ chipset
It's a little short on exact details, but Intel has released some details of the roadmap of their chipsets and motherboard designs. The line of interest to us at HD Beat is the Bearlake G+, which contains some built-in capabilities for HDTV decoding and display. It contains designs for an integrated video chipset on the motherboard, and should support hardware encryption and decoding of VC-1 and MPEG-4 AVC, as well as Intel's High Definition Audio. So if you get a computer with this chipset on the motherboard, rather than having to buy an nVidia, ATI, or other third-party card to get hardware video playback decoding for your HDTV, you can pick up one of the Media Series from Intel, plug in your DVI or HDMI cable -- with HDCP, of course -- and play back your HD DVD or Blu-ray media. The G+ series should be out in 2007.
Intel's F1-inspired Viiv remote
We wonder what the meeting was like over at Intel HQ when they decided to produce this programmable remote that's designed for controlling your Viiv devices and is shaped like the steering wheel from a BMW F1 car. We wrote a short play describing how we think it went. Executive 1: It seems like people are seeing Viiv as kind of a novelty. What should we do?Executive 2: Hmm, maybe we should develop a remote that'll give users access to all of their media without having to switch remotes, thus making Viiv actually useful for accessing content. It can have an array of custom programmable buttons, two of which look like bright blue marker caps, and everything.Executive 1: Yeah, and it can be shaped like the steering wheel from a race car!Executive 2: That is a totally sweet idea. When does it come out and how much?Executive 1: Well we're developing it now, so no word on release date. But judging by how much other companies charge for race car stuff, it's safe to say that it won't be cheap.Executive 2: Awesome. AMD Live! has no idea what's coming. Fin.
Gigabyte's A963 and H971 VIIV-powered HTPCs
Besides that pair of smartphones we spotted earlier today, Gigabyte has also been showing off a set of home theater PCs at Computex, and whether you like your media centers in tower or pizza box configuration, Gigabyte's got you covered. While both the silver H971 and white A963 support VIIV-powered Core Duo processors, the rest of the specs are nothing that will get you too excited, and the lack of built-in HDMI or WiFi will probably keep most of our readers from even giving these machines a second glance. Still, if the Intel spin machine has done its job right, the VIIV stickers alone should help Gigabyte move a few units whenever they hit stores.Read- A963 [Via AVing]Read- H971 [Via AVing]
