A new dimension for videoconferencing
The next generations of PCs are likely to come with three-dimensional cameras – or so the experts say. Chicago-based Personify has developed software (also called Personify), which Intel plans to include in Windows computers outfitted with the Intel RealSense 3D camera, according to the Chicago Tribune. The software employs data from 3D cameras to measure depth of field, separating the user from his or her environment, and then removing the background. Users have the ability to share their screens one at a time, permitting them to collaborate. The result: Companies will be able to hold background-deleted videoconferences, rather than broadcasts from a single user, says the Tribune.
Coffee with a charge
Starbucks is known for giving its customers a charge – both caffeine and the hefty fee associated with its coffee. But, now the coffee chain offers one more kick: Powermat wireless charging. Currently, wireless charging is offered in about 200 San Francisco Bay Starbucks stores, with a promise to extend this service throughout its U.S. locations within the year.
Stores in the San Francisco Bay area are now equipped with ‘Powermat Spots’ – designated areas on tables and counters where customers can place their compatible device and charge wirelessly. In addition, Starbucks stores are offering Duracell Powermat “Rings” for purchase or loan that instantly upgrade any phone to wireless charging compatibility. The rings are being offered for in-store purchase at $9.99 and can alternately be borrowed and returned on a per-visit basis. Powermat Spots comply with the open standard set by Power Matters Alliance, whose members include AT&T, Blackberry, HTC, Huawei, LG, Microsoft, Qualcomm, Samsung, TI and ZTE, ensuring that these companies’ devices and accessories can charge seamlessly in Starbucks. Customers who are interested in locating a Powermat-enabled store can visit www.powermat.com to find their nearest location.
It begins with a kiss
Keyssa has introduced Kiss Connectivity, a connector designed to transmit huge amounts of data and video rapidly between devices in close proximity, and reportedly with virtually no battery drain. The coffee bean-sized connector uses extremely high frequency (EHF) signals to transmit information securely, using standard protocols. When built into tablets, laptops, smartphones or docks, it is said to save space and free product designers to create sleeker rugged devices. It also offers consumers a new way to securely share, sync, and store their content, without wireless networks that can be hacked. The connector is reportedly solid state, preventing RFI/EMI signal interference and eliminating metal contacts, which are prone to wear-and-tear from repeatedly connecting cables or pins. It supports standard protocols, and requires no programming overhead or software drivers, according to the manufacturer. It also co-exists with all wireless power standards and will have configurations that integrate wired power. Users can operate at transfer rates of up to 6Gbits per second, meaning that when supporting protocols like USB 3.0, DisplayPort, SATA and PCIe, Kiss Connectivity can download a 1GB movie in as little as two seconds. In addition to permitting users to share content in seconds, Kiss Connectivity is said to enable mobile devices to:
- Dock seamlessly to other mobile devices, and add keyboard, monitors and storage, as well as sync data, songs and movies.
- Kiosk to download movies in seconds.
- Display to stream 4K video.
Rise and shine
HARMAN International Industries Inc. recently introduced JBL’s Horizon, a clock radio designed to start one’s day by charging phones, tablets or wearable devices. The clock features two separate customizable alarms, which can be set to one of several digital alarm tones, the FM station of one’s choice, or music from one’s smartphone. USB ports stand ready to fast-charge phones, tablets and wearables.
Touch sensitive
Samsung has introduced a fingerprint sensor in its product. The Galaxy S5 home button presents a fingerprint sensor with PCB technology for capacitive sensing of ridge peaks and ridge valleys of a fingerprint on a swiped finger. The technology senses the speed of the finger as it is swiped across the image sensor and recognizes the fingerprint image. Located above the home button, the 17.5×5.5 mm sensor is incorporated within a rectangular shaped housing composed of an aluminum ring and a stainless steel base, and is protected by a white plastic cover.
Device happy
Surprise! United States consumers are becoming increasingly obsessed with their devices, according to a recent Deloitte survey on mobile consumer trends. The survey offers insight into consumer behaviors and trends in the United States, with a focus on mobile devices, existing services, and emerging technologies. Nearly 90 percent of people check their phone in the first hour after waking up, and 23 percent look at their device up to 50 times a day, according to the survey. About 55 percent of those surveyed expressed interest in a connected-home solution. Survey results also indicate that in-store mobile payment technology (e.g., mPayments) is underutilized by U.S. consumers, which could change given recent market developments. Other key findings include:
- The average consumer uses more than a gigabyte of data per month, with the majority allocated towards video. Of those surveyed, 19 percent reported streaming television or film more frequently than in 2013.
- Interest in price grows. Consumers are becoming savvier about pricing, both in terms of mobile devices and service plans.
- Consumers intend to purchase new devices at the same rate of frequency over the next five years.
Smarter smartphone
Can’t find your phone or keys? No worries. Gecko, a multi-functional smartphone accessory available at amazon.com/geckotag, uses Bluetooth Low Energy to track anything to which it is attached. One can utilize Gecko as a smart leash to one’s valuables, such as a phone, keys, purse or laptop. In the event that valuables are left behind, the app will send a notification of their whereabouts, as long as the Gecko is attached. In addition, the user can simply press a button on the app to make the Gecko beep and track the misplaced items. Gecko can also be used as a luggage tag. The device either sends an alert if someone moves the bag, or it sends the user an alert when the bag arrives. Gecko is powered by Bluetooth Smart technology, removable coin cell battery with up to a year’s worth of juice, depending on usage, as well as a buzzer and LED light for alerts. Multiple Gecko tags can be paired to one smartphone. The device works with iOS 7.0 or later devices and is currently available for $34.99 USD each.