ASUS Chromebox – Coming to a Desk Top Near You!

There’s much that can be said for thinking outside the box – especially as it relates to technological innovation. However, as has been proven time and time again, there’s also a lot of merit in “thinking inside the box”. Exhibit A: the new ASUS Chromebox. As its name suggests, it literally comes in the form of a 4.88 x 4.88 x 1.65” box. Yet, it has the potential to connect its users to an ever-expanding universe of resources that definitely can’t be contained by its hexagonal form factor. This highly anticipated device, which is being touted by some as the world’s smallest Chrome computer, is scheduled to make its full U.S. debut in April. Those who want to be among the first to get their hands on it can place their pre-orders through a number of popular online merchants.

 

A Product of the New Age in Desktop Computing

It’s pretty safe to say that the era of big, clunky desktops is behind us. The new age of desktop computing is set to be dominated by compact devices such as the soon to be released ASUS Chromebox, which runs on the Chrome operating system (OS) and takes up only a fraction of the space that a traditional desktop does. However, despite its small size, it comes loaded with a host of powerful features that’ll allow users to efficiently and conveniently pursue both their personal and professional agendas.

 

• A number of configuration options

Prospective purchasers of the ASUS Chromebox will be able to choose between quite a few versions once the device becomes available. The base model of the machine features an entry-level 1.4 GHz Intel Celeron processor. Meanwhile, users who crave a bit more power can step up to a mid-level 1.7 GHz Intel Core i3 processor. There’s also a high-end version of the desktop that comes with a 2.1 GHz Intel Core i7 chip integrated into it.

 

• A wide range of connectivity options

 

The ASUS Chromebox is heavily dependent on Web-based (and other external) resources to function optimally. That’s one of the main reasons why it’s chock-full of varied connectivity options. All models of the device ship with a built-in dual-band wireless adapter, which makes accessing Wi-Fi networks throughout the country a seamless process. The Bluetooth 4.0 compatible Chromebox also features four high-speed USB 3.0 ports. This ensures that any data (or information) stored on the device can be quickly transferred to another storage medium such as a flash drive or external hard drive. The computer’s High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) port makes it possible to easily connect the device to a wide range of audio-visual output devices – including compatible computer monitors, televisions, etc.

 

• Advanced malware protection

The average Internet user knows that there are many dangers floating around on the Internet that can quickly compromise the security of their system and the integrity of the data that’s stored on it. The Chromebox counters these possible threats with its own potent dose of malware protection. It features pre-installed anti-malware software that instantly deploys a protective shield around the machine as soon as it boots up. Automatic updates to this software will subsequently be initiated whenever the user connects to the Internet.

 

• Impressive amounts of random access memory (RAM)

We live in an increasingly multi-tasking driven world. With up to 4 GB of built-in RAM, the ASUS Chromebox comes fully equipped to tackle the demands that are likely to be imposed on it by users who’re doing a bunch of things at once. When coupled with one of the more powerful processor options, this type of memory capacity should be sufficient to comfortably handle a number of popular activities – including the downloading of movies and the playing of online games – simultaneously.

 

What’s not so good about the ASUS Chromebox?

There’s obviously much to like about the Chromebox. However, as with any other device, there are also a few things that might cause the average prospective buyer to think a bit harder and longer about whether this machine is the right one for them.

 

• Limited software choices

Relative to PCs and Macs, devices that run versions of the Chrome OS tend to have access to a much more limited pool of compatible software titles. The Chromebox is no different. It comes pre-loaded with a very modest collection of basic productivity (Quickoffice) and social engagement programs. (Of course, many more software options are expected to become available as time goes by.)

 

• Limited built-in storage

The fact that the Chromebox only comes with a 16 GB solid-state drive (SSD) won’t raise too many storage concerns for users who’re comfortable storing their files at remote locations up in the Cloud. However, it might just concern those who aren’t. Primary storage of this size isn’t sufficient to store away a very high volume of data. (Of course, the option of using flash drives and external hard drives is always on the table.)

 

The Countdown to the Chromebox

The ASUS Chromebox is a compact Chrome OS-supported computer that has the potential to do a lot for users. It combines portability and power into a package that won’t force buyers to break the bank.

 

ASUS Chromebox – Coming to a Desk Top Near You!

MLB Returns with a Bang from Down Under

The onset of spring each year sees the return of baseball to ballparks all across the country. The sweet echo of baseball bats hitting balls is a sound that wakes many fans of the sport from the period of deep hibernation which many of them fall into once the World Series concludes in October or November of the preceding year. With the start of the upcoming 2014 Major League Baseball (MLB) season just around the corner, the pre-season preparations of all thirty teams and the players who constitute them are now in full swing.

 

However, there are two teams, in particular, who’d have accelerated their preparations as they gear up to raise the curtains on the latest MLB campaign. The National League’s Arizona Diamondbacks and Los Angeles Dodgers are scheduled to get the ball rolling when they face-off on March 22. Interestingly, the two-game series, which will conclude on March 23, won’t take place at any ballpark within the continental United States (or Puerto Rico). It’s going to be played at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) in Australia. Both games are scheduled to be broadcasted on MLB Network.

 

Baseball Meets its Cousin, Cricket

There are a number of reasons behind Major League Baseball’s decision to take the opening game of the 2014 season Down Under.

 

• Australia’s MLB tradition

The Dodgers and the Arizona Diamondbacks will play in their two-game series in Australia that opens next year’s Major League Baseball season.

There are few countries in the world which have produced more Major League Baseball players than Australia. So far, no less than 30 Aussies have donned the uniform of an MLB team. Of this number, there are some prominent ones who’re set to take to the field during the upcoming season. Pitcher Grant Balfour, who played in the 2013 MLB All-Star Game, is probably the most recognizable Australian currently playing in the Majors. He’ll represent the Tampa Bay Rays once the 2014 season gets fully into gear.

 

• The similarities between baseball and cricket

The fact that baseball is a distant cousin of cricket means that it shouldn’t be too difficult for the average Australian cricket fan to understand what’s taking place once the game between the Diamondbacks and the Dodgers gets underway. It’s easily relatable because there are quite a few features which are common to both sports. Most importantly, they’re both played with bat and ball. These commonalities should result in thousands of local fans turning out to watch the first regular season Major League Baseball game that’ll be played Down Under. (Of course, there are many other folks who’ll be in attendance because of the novelty factor or the chance to be part of history).

 

• The size of the Sydney Cricket Ground

Size does matter when seeking to identify a suitable venue for any event that you’re looking to stage. After all, you’re always looking to ensure that you can get sufficient patrons in to cover your overheads and turn a handsome little profit on top of that. With a listed seating capacity approaching 50,000, the venue at which the 2014 Major League Baseball season will open is one of the largest and most recognizable cricket stadiums in the world. It’s anticipated that the facility will be filled to capacity when the first pitch is thrown at approximately 4 a.m. ET on March 22.

 

• MLB’s thrust towards becoming a major global brand

It’s obvious that Major League Baseball is making efforts to grow itself into a major global brand. They’ve found a very good example to emulate in the National Basketball Association (NBA), which is currently one of the most internationally recognizable brand names in the world of sports. That’s one of the main reasons behind MLB’s decision to take its 2014 season opener away from the continental United States. This was also one of the chief motivating factors that fueled its previous decisions to open the 1999 season in Monterrey, Mexico; the 2001 campaign in San Juan, Puerto Rico; and the 2000, 2004, 2008, and 2012 seasons in baseball-mad Japan.

 

 

 

Who’s going to win the World Series?

This is always one of the burning questions making the rounds at the start of each Major League Baseball season. It remains to be seen if either of the two Opening Day combatants will be the last team standing when all is said and done come November. At this early stage of the game, the Dodgers look likelier to make a run at glory. They’ve retained many of the key players who powered their playoff push last year – including National League Cy Young Award (best pitcher) winner Clayton Kershaw. On the other hand, the Diamondbacks failed to make the playoffs after finishing with an 81-81 record from the 162 games they contested in 2013. Either of these teams will have to fight off the challenges that are likely to come from teams such as the Atlanta Braves, St. Louis Cardinals, and Pittsburgh Pirates. Of course, the team that emerges from the National League will likely have to get the better of a team such as defending World Series champion Boston Red Sox, Detroit Tigers, or the New York Yankees to go all the way.            

 

Where to watch the 2014 MLB season

There are quite a few channels which will provide coverage of the 2014 MLB season. MLB Network, ESPN, ESPN2, FOX, and FS1 are among them. You simply need to check your program guide to see exactly when and where your favorite team’s games will be televised.

 

MLB Returns with a Bang from Down Under

Samsung Chromebook 2 Scheduled for April Arrival

Chromebooks are among the most popular personal computing devices making the rounds these days. Many of the models released by the various manufacturers of these gadgets have managed to sell pretty well, which contrasts starkly with the general downturn that’s been witnessed in the personal computer (PC) market in recent times. The fact that Chromebooks fit so snugly into the lives of highly mobile users is undoubtedly one of the big reasons why so many people have been snapping them up. Samsung, which was one of the first players to venture into this segment of the market, is among the manufacturers who’ve scored big with a Chromebook model. (Amazon sales statistics indicate that the company’s Samsung Series 3 device has consistently been one of the best sellers on the world’s biggest online marketplace.) Now, to the delight of many Chromebook (and Samsung) fans all around the country, news has emerged that the predecessor to the wildly popular Samsung Series 3 laptop will become available in April.

 

How does the Chromebook 2 compare to the Series 3?

 

The wait has been a very long one for those who’ve been clamoring for a follow-up to the Series 3. In fact, by the time Samsung Chromebook 2s hit store shelves, a period of almost one and a half years will have elapsed. However, it’s quite likely that this long wait has only increased the public’s appetite for the device.

 

The Good

 

Here’s a look at a few of the upgraded features that the company is hoping will whet the appetites of potential purchasers even more:

 

• More powerful processors

Samsung is actually planning to release two models of its popular laptop when April rolls around: an 11-inch version (with an 11.6-inch display) and a 13-inch version (with a 13.3-inch display). Both of them are slated to boast more powerful processors than their predecessor, which featured a 1.7 GHz Samsung Exynos 5 dual-core chip. Both models of the Chromebook 2 will come equipped with newer and faster 8-core Exynos 5 processors. The smaller model will feature a 1.9 GHz version of the chip, while its bigger brother (or sister, if you prefer) will come fitted with a 2.1 GHz engine.

 

• More random access memory (RAM)

The increased RAM integrated into the new devices gives them the potential to offer owners better multitasking performance than is possible with the Series 3. Both Chromebook 2 models come stocked with 4GB of random access memory, which is double the capacity of their predecessor. In theory, this should make all the programs that are being run concurrently on the machine operate much more smoothly than was possible before.

 

• Brighter displays

Both models of the new Chromebook 2 will serve up brighter displays to users. This should reduce the strain that your eyes are subjected to when viewing the various elements which are shown on the device’s screen. The original Series 3’s display features 200 nits. However, both models of the latest version of the device will come equipped with 250-nit displays. (A nit is a unit of measurement used to gauge the amount of light that a display produces.)

 

• Longer battery life

Longer battery life is always one of the features close to the top of the priority list for mobile users. When a device’s battery is capable of lasting longer, it gives users the potential to get much more work (or play) in between charges. Based on test results, the Series 3 was shown to provide users with up to 6.5 hours of runtime for each full charge that it received. On the other hand, the 11-inch and 13-inch models of the Chromebook 2 are capable of going for up to 8 and 8.5 hours respectively.

 

The Not So Good

 

There are obviously numerous hardware and software upgrades that will catch the eyes of potential purchasers of the soon to be released Samsung Chromebook 2. However, there are also a few things that might give the average person who’s in the market for one of these devices some cause for pause. Here’s a look at a few of these factors:

 

 

• Heftier price tag

It’s definitely reasonable to expect the price of these upgraded models to be a tad higher than those associated with the less powerful Series 3 device that preceded them. However, while the proposed prices for both the 11-inch and the 13-inch models are not astronomically higher than that of their predecessor, the fact that they’re both projected to jump into the $300+ bracket might pose a problem for some potential buyers.

 

• Same 16GB hard drive

Chromebooks are designed to function in an online environment that provides ready access to the various Cloud-based resources which they need to work best. However, there are times when users won’t be able to access the Internet. In such situations, users invariably have to resort to using the programs which are stored locally (on the device itself). Unfortunately, 16GB of hard drive space doesn’t allow you to save very much.

 

The Final Word

 

The two new models of the popular Chromebook 2 device are scheduled for an April release. They’ll feature significant upgrades over the original Chromebook – the Samsung Series 3.

 

Samsung Chromebook 2 Scheduled for April Arrival

Comcast Adds Chicago to Public Wi-Fi Hotspot Network

The Internet is a resource around which the lives of millions of Americans revolve. It’s often critical to ensuring that they maximize their full professional potential by allowing them to access numerous productivity tools and valuable information. It’s also a prime destination for many people who are seeking to satisfy their social engagement and entertainment needs. This fertile online space is also essential to ensuring that the various high-tech mobile devices which play such important roles in the lives of their owners are able to fully deliver on the performance that they promise. The public wireless network is a very popular means by significant volumes of Web-going Americans are able to access the various resources that exist on the World Wide Web. It’s an extremely convenient alternative to having a hardwired, dedicated connection within their respective homes or offices. Invariably, this wireless Internet access is established using a smartphone or tablet. Comcast is seeking to satisfy the needs of more of these users with the continued deployment of its proposed national public wireless network. Chicago, which is one of the nation’s most populous cities, is the latest area in which the company is wirelessly connecting residents.

 

The Wi-Fi Hotspot Next Door

Comcast, which is one of the largest Internet service providers in the United States, is seeking to crisscross the city of Chicago with an expansive Wi-Fi network that will facilitate access by virtually all of the metropolis’ residents. The first building blocks to support this massive initiative were laid last year when the company began establishing access points in various outdoor locations – including shopping centers and public parks – throughout the “Windy City”. Subsequently, the company indicated that the capabilities and range of its wireless network was set to be boosted significantly by the incorporation of thousands of business customers into the grid. These commercial subscribers have signed up to enable the use of their locations (and onsite equipment) as wireless transmission points. In recent days, the public has witnessed the commencement of the latest stage in Comcast’s citywide Wi-Fi rollout. Increasing numbers of residential customers are now being co-opted into the network. Their homes now have the potential to function as public wireless hotspots.

 

 

How exactly will it work?

In Comcast’s residential Wi-Fi grid framework, the dual-mode modems housed in the homes of thousands of Chicagoans will continue to play critical roles in extending service to both subscribers and non-subscribers who want to tap into the company’s Internet service. These modems are capable of broadcasting two signals. One of these signals is reserved exclusively for the use of the residential subscribers themselves. The other, however, can be accessed by other individuals who don’t reside within the home –whether they are XFINITY subscribers or not. Users who are themselves XFINITY Internet customers can simply enter their account credentials to gain access to the hotspot to which they’re nearest at that particular point in time. Meanwhile, prospective users who are non-subscribers can utilize the service on a pay-per-use basis. The company suggests that hourly rates will apply to this category of users.

 

No Need for Performance and Security Concerns

Understandably, there are many existing subscribers who’ve expressed concerns regarding the possible impact that such a development will have on the quality of the service that they’re able to receive. Will it affect the respective download and upload speeds that they’ve been able to bank on? Will the addition of more users to the network result in reliability or security issues? These are just a few of the common questions that have been directed at company representatives in the aftermath of the announcement. However, Tom Nagel, Comcast’s Senior Vice President and General Manager of Wireless, has assured existing customers that these new developments won’t compromise their existing service in any way. In a recent public statement, he affirmed that any “use on the public side doesn’t impact the private side.” This is largely due to the fact that the signals which they’ll rely on for service will remain separate from the one by which every other prospective user will gain access to the information superhighway.

 

Using Public Wireless Networks Safely

 

As indicated above, Comcast has expressed confidence that their customers will not be subjected to any undue inconvenience as a result of this new development. However, despite the fact that no problems are anticipated, it’s always a good idea for users of Wi-Fi networks to take general precautions to ensure that they’re fully protected – just in case something unforeseen happens. Here are a few measures that these XFINITY Internet subscribers (and others) can employ:

 

• Turn off sharing

By tweaking the requisite account settings, wireless Internet service subscribers can turn off the sharing feature that allows other users to access the signal emitted by their wireless modem. This is an option which is also available to XFINITY Internet customers who don’t want to participate in the company’s new Wi-Fi initiative.

 

• Make sure antivirus software is up-to-date

Wireless Internet subscribers can also guard against any potential external threats by installing a solid antiviral package to protect any sensitive information that they might’ve stored on their computer. Such software can also provide antispyware protection, which will keep any potential prying eyes away.

 

The Wrap Up

Chicago is the latest city to witness the rollout of Comcast’s public Wi-Fi network. The initiative is being supported by the existing network infrastructure which connects thousands of current residential subscribers to the grid.

 

Comcast Adds Chicago to Public Wi-Fi Hotspot Network

College Basketball Season Culminates with “March Madness”

The ongoing National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Men’s Division I basketball season has been chock full of surprises. Many of the nation’s collegiate powerhouses have suffered defeats at the hands of much lower-ranked opposition. Many of these upsets have been like a bolt from the blue. (Not many neutral observers would have given these huge underdogs a snowball’s chance in hell of pulling off these monumental upsets prior to the tip-off of the respective games in which they shocked their more fancied opponents.)

 

One of the biggest surprises was witnessed on February 19. It saw Boston College, who had only managed to win six of their previous 25 games, waltzing into the Carrier Dome and pulling off an overtime upset victory over then number one ranked and undefeated Syracuse. Quite a few of the other marquee programs in the nation have also suffered the same fate when confronted by adversaries with markedly inferior records. The fact that no team has clearly proven itself superior to all others clearly suggests that we’ll be in for one of the most exciting and unpredictable editions of “March Madness” in recent history.

 

What exactly is “March Madness”?

 

The 2013-14 Division I college basketball season began in November 2013. It’s scheduled to culminate in the first half of April. However, before the curtains finally come down on the campaign, there are millions of fans who’ll be swept up in the mass delirium that traditionally accompanies the onset of “March Madness”. The term “March Madness” has long been used to refer to the single-elimination basketball tournaments that close out the Division I college basketball seasons for both men and women. At the end of the respective tourneys, the last team standing is recognized as the best in the country and anointed with the coveted title of national champion. At the end of last year’s men’s tournament, Louisville emerged as the victor. They got the better of Michigan in a hard-fought final by a miniscule margin of 82 points to 76 points. Meanwhile, Connecticut ran out the winner on the women’s side. They spanked their counterparts from Louisville in one of the most lopsided national championship games in the tourney’s history.

 

Important Dates to Keep in Mind

There are a number of very important dates that you’ll need to keep in mind in the lead up to the eventual crowning of the 2014 NCAA Men’s Division I Basketball Tournament champion. Let’s take a look at a couple of them:

 

• March 16 (“Selection Sunday”)

Sunday, March 16 will be a big day for all the teams who have aspirations of making it into the title game this season. This is the occasion on which the identity of all 60-odd title contenders will be confirmed. It’s also the date on which you’ll know exactly what road your favorite team will need to venture down if they’re to have you basking in the glory of a national title triumph when April rolls around. Of course, there are a number of teams who’ll punch their tickets to the tournament before March 16 arrives. These 30-odd teams would’ve earned automatic entry into the tourney by virtue of winning their respective conference tournaments. The Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) and Southeastern Conference (SEC) are among the powerhouse leagues that will automatically place their titlists into the NCAA men’s basketball tournament. The rest of the field will comprise teams that are awarded at-large bids. (An at-large bid is an invitation that the NCAA’s selection committee extends to a team which, though compiling an outstanding record, doesn’t quite manage to win its conference tourney.)

 

 

• March 18 – April 5

To make it to the championship game, your favorite team will have to prove its mettle against a number of other contenders (and pretenders) to the throne over a nearly three-week period. They’ll have to win at least five straight games (maybe more) to keep their shot of winning the tourney trophy alive. In doing so, they’ll have to overcome the respective challengers that’ll confront them at the “Elite Eight” (quarterfinal) stage, which will run from March 27 to 30, and the “Final Four” (semifinal) stage, which will play out on April 5.

 

• April 7 (National Championship Game)

The biggest game of the 2013-14 college basketball season will be played inside Texas’ AT&T Stadium on April 7. In theory, it should pit the two best teams in the country against each other in a hard-fought battle for national supremacy.

 

Who are the favorites to win it all?

 

It’s obvious that every team which makes the tournament has a shot at glory. Theoretically, however, there are some who’ll go in with better shots than others. Former champions Louisville, North Carolina, Kansas, Connecticut, Duke, Syracuse, Arizona, and Florida are the traditional heavyweights that you need to keep your eyes on. Undefeated Wichita State, which was a national semifinalist last year, is also worth watching. However, it’s almost guaranteed that some of these celebrated teams will fall at the hands of less decorated opponents during the tourney. That’s just the way single-elimination competition goes. One loss and you’re done.

 

Where to Watch

All of the exciting action which is in the offing can be enjoyed on CBS, TBS, TNT, and TruTV. You just have to check your programming guide to see which matchup is airing when.

 

College Basketball Season Culminates with “March Madness”

Take the Plunge with the Waterproof Sony Xperia Z2 Tablet

There are many potential dangers to concern yourself with when you’re rolling around with consumer electronics – especially when they’re coveted gadgets such as high-end smartphones and tablets. However, anyone who’s ever owned an electronic device will probably tell you that there are very few threats that they fear more than water. Yep, the often placid-looking body of water is one of the biggest dangers lurking in bathtubs, toilets, and kitchen sinks all around the world. Water that resides in pools and at the beach also knocks off its fair share of gadgets annually. Trying to resuscitate your device after it takes a dip can be one of the most distressing things that you’re forced to experience.

 

Despite our desperate blow drying and frantic searching for signs of life, there are numerous instances in which our treasured devices just flat line. This often sends hundreds of dollars spiraling straight down the drain. The recently unveiled Sony Xperia Z2 tablet, which will soon be available for purchase, is the latest in a short – but growing – line of waterproof tablets. It could just be the one to blow all of your water damage fears away.

 

Thin, Light & Bright

 

Large screened phones and tablets that afford users better views of the elements being displayed are in high demand. The more lightweight materials and smaller internal components being used in the production of these gadgets have ensured that many of them are becoming lighter and thinner. The Sony Xperia Z2 tablet is one of the latest devices in the lengthening line of big-screened tablets that offer enhanced portability. It possesses a brilliant, easy-to-read 10.1 inch high-definition LED screen – yet it only tips the scale at a mere 15.5 ounces. (That’s just a little heavier than a regular can of soda.) At just 0.25 inches thick (or thin, depending on how you want to look at it), you can also conveniently slip it almost anywhere that a sliver of space presents itself when packing to hit the road.

 

A Performance Powerhouse

The Sony Xperia Z2 tablet has the potential to deliver powerful performance to users. It comes equipped with a potent Qualcomm Snapdragon 801 processor, which is one of the fastest that’s currently being served up in these mobile devices. The power it possesses and its quad-core configuration make it a multitasker’s dream. It allows you to execute quite a few CPU-intensive functions – including the streaming of movies and the running of a variety of apps –simultaneously. This makes it easy for you to use the precious time that you have on hand as productively as possible. Top of the line graphics performance is delivered by the device’s advanced Adreno 330 graphics processing unit (GPU). This important component ensures that the visuals which you see displayed on screen are among the richest and most detailed that any tablet available on the market today can produce.

 

Connect at the Speed of Light

The Xperia Z2 tablet comes with a powerful LTE/4G modem built right in. This allows users to connect to the latest and fastest data networks in operation throughout the United States. These connections can facilitate the high speed transfer of data between the device and the various sources from which you’ll want to retrieve it. Download speeds approaching 150 megabits per second (Mbit/s) and upload speeds of up to Mbit/s can be enjoyed when this gadget is used to tap into the full capabilities of these networks.

 

Other Impressive Features

This tablet also possesses a host of other impressive features and capabilities. Some of these are highlighted below:

 

 

• Google Android 4.4 (KitKat) operating system

This is the latest Android operating system on the market. It features a clean, easy-to-use interface that allows users to quickly access the device’s various resources.

 

• 8.1 megapixel rear-facing camera

The Xperia Z2 tablet’s powerful camera is capable of capturing stunning, high resolution images that can help you to visually chronicle the most important moments in your life.

 

• Seamless connectivity with other devices

You can also use this tablet to wirelessly share photos, videos, and other files with a variety of other compatible Sony and Android-supported devices. Additionally, you can program the tablet to function as a remote control for TVs such as those in the BRAVIA series.

 

What’s (possibly) Not So Great

There are very few areas in which the Sony Xperia Z2 tablet doesn’t compare favorably with many of the other high-end tablets on the market. One may be tempted to highlight its relatively elevated price. (The “low-end” model of the device can currently be pre-ordered for approximately £400 in Europe.) However, one couldn’t reasonably expect to get all that the Sony Xperia Z2 offers for (much) less. The fact that its camera lacks a flash, however, is one area in which it may be marked down by many users and prospective buyers. The lack of a flash on its camera means that it isn’t able to provide the type of illumination required to optimize picture taking in low-light environments.

 

It’s a Wrap

The highly anticipated Sony Xperia Z2 tablet is a power-packed device that promises impressive performance to those who’ll have the money to purchase one when it eventually arrives in the United States. One just hopes that this’ll happen sooner rather than later.

 

Take the Plunge with the Waterproof Sony Xperia Z2 Tablet

Comcast Subsidiary NBCUniversal Launches Sprout NOW TV App

The average parent will tell you that keeping preschoolers entertained for any significant period of time can be a very big challenge. This challenge is often magnified when, for one reason or another, they’re unable to stay with the child to entertain them personally. This problem can become an even bigger one if they’re forced to take the child out of the home environment where they are most comfortable. When such potentially nightmarish scenarios arise, it’s always good for parents to have an entertainment aid, such as a TV or mobile device, handy. Comcast subsidiary NBCUniversal Cable, which owns the popular kid-oriented television network Sprout, recently released a Sprout NOW TV app that channels the best programming for preschoolers right to a number of mobile devices that run iOS. This app has the potential to make excursions – including those long holiday road trips – much more pleasant for kids. Meanwhile, it promises to deliver much greater peace of mind to the millions of parents who often experience such great distress when their precious little ones are made miserable by boredom.

 

Mobile TV goes Back to Preschool

 

More and more Americans desire to conveniently carry their favorite TV programming with them when they’re outside the cozy confines of their homes. This is one of the main reasons behind the recent explosion in the popularity of mobile TV apps. (Every major service provider is seemingly getting in on the act.) The recently launched Sprout NOW application aims to feed this growing demand by providing content which was developed with preschoolers in mind. Currently, the parents of these young ones can download and install the Sprout NOW app on a variety of devices that utilize various versions of the iOS operating system. This includes an assortment of iPhones and iPads. However, according to NBCUniversal officials, there are concrete plans in the pipeline to release a version of the app that’s compatible with the wildly popular Android operating system as well. This’ll potentially allow millions of Android device-owning parents to give their children access to the exciting programming that Sprout currently makes available to so many preschoolers. The development and launch of the Sprout NOW app is the latest step in the rapid expansion of NBCUniversal’s “NOW” app universe. Bravo, USA, and Syfy are among the channels that subscribers can view on their mobile devices while on the go.

 

The possibilities are (virtually) endless with Sprout NOW

This freshly minted app has the potential to introduce many exciting possibilities into the lives of users – whether they are young in age or merely young at heart. The extensive range of features and capabilities that it possesses allows users to do the following:

 

• Watch full episodes of some of the most exciting and highly educational TV shows


• Create watch lists that feature all the shows that they (or their little ones) can’t afford to miss


• Access up-to-date program guides that showcase all the content that’s available for viewing

 

Users who’re not Comcast customers can also get in on the fun. NBCUniversal has partnered with a number of other providers to make Sprout NOW’s mobile TV offerings available to customers whose subscriptions reside elsewhere.

 

About Sprout

Sprout is currently one of the most popular channels for kids in the United States. This status is largely attributable to the diverse and outstanding range of programs that it showcases to younger viewers. Here’s a sampling of the programming that subscribers (and their preschool-aged kids) can expect to enjoy when they tune in:

 

• Noodle and Doodle

Noodle and Doodle is a series in which a human character (Sean) is ably assisted by a colorful puppet (Noodle McNoodle) to prepare a number of healthy recipes. It also features an animated segment in which a cooking dog (Doggity) stars. It was among the initial batch of original series to premiere on Sprout.

 

 

• Pajanimals

The aptly titled Pajanimals revolves around four pajama-clad characters – a dog (Apollo), a duck (Squacky), a horse (Sweetpea Sue), and a cow (Cowbella). This fantastic foursome sings and dances its way through exciting and informative adventures before retiring each night.

 

• Sesame Street

Sesame Street is one of the longest-running children’s shows in the history of American television. It features iconic characters such as “Big Bird” and “Cookie Monster”, who lead kids of all ages on exciting adventures that help them to develop their math, reasoning, and other cognitive skills.

 

Sprout NOW App to Grow Sprout’s Impact

Parents are always looking for ways to keep their kids engaged – if only to keep them out of their hair. The television has long been one of the main aids that parents have relied upon to assist them with the task of keeping their kids entertained. Now, with the recent release of the Sprout NOW app, they have another potent aid in their arsenal. This app allows them to take all of the exciting programming that their kids have grown to know and love with them – even if they are physically far removed from their home and the traditional TV.

 

Comcast Subsidiary NBCUniversal Launches Sprout NOW TV App

Take a Bite Out of From Dusk Till Dawn: The Series

There are some films that make a huge impact on popular culture without performing all that well at the box office. Invariably, these movies are labeled as cult classics. They typically have a small but rabid fan base which fanatically supports any venture that has an association with the original flick. The 1996 film From Dusk Till Dawn falls into this fascinating category. Based on the official figures, it barely managed to eke out a small profit for its backers by the time its run in theaters came to an end. However, what it did generate is a lengthening legacy that’s so far included two follow-up movies – From Dusk Till Dawn 2: Texas Blood Money and From Dusk Till Dawn 3: The Hangman’s Daughter – as well as a video game. If you’re already numbered among the movie’s fanatical followers, you’ll be happy to know that there’ll soon be another highly anticipated addition to the franchise. From Dusk Till Dawn: The Series is scheduled to make its initial small screen appearance on March 11.

 

3 Reasons to Watch From Dusk Till Dawn: The Series

The reasons why you should watch this upcoming series are numerous and varied. Let’s take a look at three of the most compelling ones.

 

It’s heavily influenced by the original film

 

The TV series, with D.J. Cotrona and Zane Holtz, is based on the original motion picture.

The original film featured vampires, vampires, and more vampires. It also featured Hollywood heartthrob George Clooney (who barely managed to escape being turned into a vampire), Mexican-American actress Salma Hayek (who played the role of seductive vampire vixen Santánico Pandemonium), and Quentin Tarantino (who was eventually turned into a vampire). It also featured more gore, gunfights, and gratuitous violence than the vast majority of American films released during the 1990s. (So, if you’re into that kind of thing, you definitely should circle its premiere date on your calendar.) It was also awash with some of the most colorful characters that you’ll ever come across. The fact that the upcoming series is heavily influenced by the original film means that you’ll be treated to a high-octane thrill ride that serves up a high volume of horrifying action and a bit of slapstick comic relief.

 

Its cast features a good mix of up-and-comers and industry veterans

The caliber of the actors and actresses who portray the characters in a series or film can have a very big impact on how well the storylines play out on screen. That’s why you’ll be so happy to know that From Dusk Till Dawn: The Series is slated to showcase a cast which includes many respected industry veterans and a number of emerging stars. Golden Globe Award-winning actor Don Johnson (Miami Vice and Nash Bridges) has already been penciled in to head up the cast. He’ll be joined by fellow award-winning actor Robert Patrick (Terminator 2: Judgment Day and The X-Files), who’s appeared in his fair share of science fiction movies and TV shows over the years. The talents of these two veterans, who’ve accumulated over 70 years of acting experience between them, is complemented by a number of very promising younger performers. This ensemble includes Wilmer Valderrama (That ‘70s Show and Yo Momma), Mexican actress Eiza Gonzalez, D. J. Cotrona (G.I. Joe: Retaliation), Zane Holtz (The Perks of Being a Wallflower, Holes) and Madison Davenport (Over the Hedge and Kit Kittredge: An American Girl).

 

Robert Rodriguez is the series’ executive producer

Robert Rodriguez is one of the most talented directors currently doing the rounds in Hollywood. Rodriguez, who also directed the original From Dusk Till Dawn movie, specializes in the direction and production of visually intense films that are sprinkled with a dash of slapstick comedy. (Planet Terror and Machete are among the flicks on which he’s racked up directing credits.) Of course, he’s also been the man behind the controls on a number of more mainstream projects such as The Faculty and Spy Kids. Given the full latitude to do his thing, it’s almost guaranteed that you’ll be treated to a series that’s very visually stimulating.

 

Robert Rodriguez, director of the original film and creator of the series.

 

About El Rey Network

From Dusk Till Dawn: The Series is scheduled to air on the recently launched El Rey Network, which is currently available to customers in a number of Comcast markets. (You’ll need to get in touch with your provider to find out where the station falls on your channel lineup.) The network’s Spanish name, which translates to “The King” in English, alludes to the fact that it has heavy Hispanic influences. It’s actually majority owned by From Dusk Till Dawn’s director Robert Rodriguez and the Spanish language American media company Univision Communications, which is one of the most popular entities of its kind headquartered in the United States. The production and airing of this upcoming series fits right into the network’s mandate, which revolves around the provision of English language entertainment programs to Hispanic audiences throughout the country. Movies, documentaries, and sports (such as Mexican professional wrestling) are among the programs that you can expect to enjoy when you tune in.

 

That’s a wrap

There are probably hundreds of thousands of people throughout the country who’ll be sitting in their couches with their eyes transfixed to El Rey Network when From Dusk Till Dawn: The Series premieres on March 11 at 9 p.m. ET. Existing Comcast customers in a number of markets will have front row seats as the latest installment in this cult classic franchise unfolds.

 

Take a Bite Out of From Dusk Till Dawn: The Series

XFINITY Extreme 505 Internet Service Rolls into More Cities

There’s no escaping the fact that speed is one of the most important considerations for prospective subscribers when they’re shopping around for Internet service. If the upload and download speeds offered are insufficient, it can seriously compromise the level of personal or professional productivity that the customer is able to achieve. It can also seriously affect the amount of enjoyment that the subscriber and members of their family are able to experience.

These are just some of the reasons that cause so many people to dedicate so much of their time and energy to finding the Internet service option which ideally suits the unique demands of their lifestyle. Residential customers whose lifestyles demand speed-intensive alternatives are often among the prospective subscribers who are forced to search the longest and hardest for the right fit. This is due to the fact that, relative to other folks with less of a need for speed, there are generally more limited options available to them. The recently announced expanded roll out of XFINITY Extreme 505 Internet service is poised to give existing (and prospective) customers in more American cities another high-octane alternative.



Coming to a Big City Near You



Existing and prospective Internet service subscribers in a number of big cities across the country will soon be able to hit the information superhighway and hurtle along at speeds that very few people have ever been able to enjoy. This development will be facilitated by the deployment of ultra high-speed Extreme 505 Internet service in their respective areas. According to industry sources, cities such as Chicago, Atlanta, and Miami are among those whose residents are set to benefit from the proposed rollout. Their selection as sites for the short-term expansion of Extreme 505’s service area is predicated on the fact that Comcast already has extensive fiber-optic infrastructure in place in these cities. This will make the task of getting the service up and running much less of a challenge than would be the case in areas where the company’s fiber-optic network footprint is not as big. It’s been suggested that ground level promotional activities in the respective new markets will commence shortly. However, no official launch date has yet been announced for the unveiling of the expanded service.



The Extreme Capabilities of Extreme 505

“Biggest”, “best”, “fastest”, and “newest” are just some of the popular word choices that companies use every day when marketing the various products and services that they want prospective customers to purchase or contract. Unfortunately, to the annoyance of many customers, they only discover that said product or service wasn’t all that it was cracked up to be after splashing out a wad of cash or getting tied into an inordinately long service contract. With Extreme 505, subscribers don’t just get an Internet service that Comcast claims to be the fastest residential offering available; they get one that backs up its claims with tested and proven performance. Here’s what the service brings to the table:

• Downstream  (download) speed

There’s a whole lot of content archived on the Internet to which people want (almost) instant access to. Extreme 505 allows XFINITY customers to get their hands on what they need in the shortest time possible with arguably the fastest download speeds going around. This phenomenal speed makes it possible for the average customer to significantly reduce the time they typically spend downloading a high-definition (HD) movie, for example. (Acquiring various other large files, for a variety of other purposes, is also much easier.) It also makes experiences such as online gaming much more enjoyable by virtually eliminating the annoying lag and latency which have to be endured with many less dynamic service options. Depending on network conditions, Extreme 505 subscribers are able to avail themselves of download speeds that go all the way up to 505 megabits per second (Mbps).

• Upstream (upload) speed

From time to time, customers require the capacity to transfer files from their computer to a remote recipient or device located somewhere out there on the Internet. Oftentimes, these are large files that would take a very long time to be transferred via a “regular” connection. However, when subscribers have Extreme 505 at their disposal, they’re able to make light work of even the largest PowerPoint presentations, video presentations, amateur movies, etc. Once again, assuming ideal network conditions, Comcast promises XFINITY Internet customers upload speeds of up to 100 Mbps.



The Birth and Growth of Extreme 505

The developments that are on the horizon will mark the latest stage in the evolution of Extreme 505 service, which was originally made available to customers residing in a number of major northeastern cities – including Boston and Philadelphia – back in the fall of 2012. Since then, the continued improvement of the company’s fiber-optic network has resulted in customers being able to enjoy progressively greater download and upload speeds. With this critical upgrading phase completed, Comcast now seems intent on focusing more of its resources on expanding the service area of this premium high-speed offering.



The Wrap Up

Existing and prospective Internet service subscribers in a number of additional cities will soon be able to benefit from the power and high-speed performance that's characteristic of the Extreme 505 offering. According to recent reports, Atlanta, Chicago, and Miami will be among the cities targeted during the next phase of the rollout. Service availability can be checked here: onlinecomcast.com




XFINITY Extreme 505 Internet Service Rolls into More Cities