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Chameleon: The Adaptive Home Screen That Will Make Android Tablets Useful

Briley — Fri, 18 May 2012 12:44:00 PDT

The Android market is fragmented because there are so many devices to choose from, and they all run on different hardware and software versions of the Android platform. Unfortunately, the devices themselves are not the only things fragmented in the Android hemisphere.

Android home screens can get rather fragmented as well, thanks to the abundant, and neverending, supply of applications available via Google Play. Most Android users install dozens upon dozens, if not hundreds, of applications on their Android device. In order to access said applications quickly and efficiently, the most used apps can be displayed as shortcuts on the home screen.

More often than not, the Android home screen can become fragmented because it can be overrun with various shortcuts and apps that have nothing to do with each other, which can ultimately cause productivity issues. The whole point of a home screen on any device is to provide a fluent and easily navigable hub, with which users can access all their principal apps, and data.

Teknision aims to change all of that slowdown on Android tablets with their Chameleon home screen app.

What Is Chameleon?

Chameleon is a unique home screen app designed specifically for Android tablets. The idea is to provide applications, data and content in customized streams or groups that are related to one another. For instance, when a user is at the office they typically use applications related to email, scheduling (calendar), memos and current news; the Chameleon app will identify the user is in their office (using GPS functionality) and will properly display the office or work home screen. Additionally, users can customize home screens for alternate time periods, such as a home screen for morning, midday and evening. Teknision gives the example that the evening home screen would focus more on entertainment apps because in the evening consumers are generally home relaxing instead of being productive.

Much like the stock Android home screens, Chameleon will also use custom widgets that can be spaced accordingly throughout the various screens. Widgets include support for popular applications like Facebook, Twitter, Netflix, Instagram, and Gmail.

Chameleon will also include a customized app launcher that will help users to find an individual application quickly and efficiently. The Chameleon app launcher will display a unique menu with the user’s favorite apps at the forefront.

The entire idea behind Chameleon is to increase user productivity and the time spent navigating applications and features on an Android tablet. Quite frankly, a streamlined experience is exactly what the Android platform lacks at times, which is something Apple excels at providing in their software. It is not the Android operating system itself that is tedious, but instead the functions that are required to get things done. Chameleon will make the home screens and app tray function fluently, in order to provide a faster user experience.

What Are the Requirements for Chameleon?

Currently, Teknision only plans to release the Chameleon home screen application for Android tablets running Android version 3.2 (Honeycomb) and later. Teknision has mentioned on its official Kickstarter page that they will consider releasing the application for alternate Android devices at a later time.

The Chameleon application has already been built as a prototype, but that does not mean there is a working software version. Teknision will have to revise the prototype to work on all Android tablets and ensure an equal user experience across all compatible devices. The estimated release period is September, 2012 when the app will first hit the Google Play market.

Consumers who pre-order the app and pledge money to support the developers on Kickstarter will be able to receive a copy as early as August, 2012.

That being said, Teknision is currently raising money from the public in order to bring Chameleon into fruition.

Support Teknision and the Chameleon App On Kickstarter

As of the time of this writing, Teknision has raised $14,729 out of their total $50K goal through Kickstarter. If Teknision does not pass the $50,000 cap in the 27 days that are left, the money will not be transferred to the developers, and they will have to seek alternate means to fund the project.

Backers who pledge $5 or more are essentially pre-ordering the application and will receive their copy in August (in unfinished Beta stage of course).

The Chameleon home screen application is innovative and attractive; it would certainly do wonders to improve Android tablets and increase their overall usefulness. Tablets, and more specifically the Android platform, can at times be a tedious environment to operate. Fortunately, the prototype that Teknision has displayed seems like it will change these issues.

We’re looking forward to a more streamlined experience on Android tablets, and hopefully you are too. So what are you waiting for? Get over to the Chameleon Kickstarter page and pledge a couple bucks, every little bit counts!

NVIDIA Kepler GPUs Soaring Through the Cloud, No Wings Required

Briley — Thu, 17 May 2012 09:00:34 PDT

NVIDIA’s CEO, Jen-Hsun Huang announced today that their Kepler GPUs will soon be usable through cloud computing software. For those who may not remember, the Kepler GPUs are what power NVIDIA’s latest graphics card, the GeForce GTX 690.

Now, those beastly Kepler GPUs will be available virtually in the cloud. What does this mean exactly?

It means that, like most cloud computing applications and hardware, NVIDIA’s resources will be usable remotely from various computers and mobile devices. In layman’s terms, it means NVIDIA hardware will now be usable through mobile phones, netbooks and iPads.

The virtualized Kepler GPUs are designed to support enterprise software and applications, but that does not mean it cannot be utilized for cloud gaming. In fact, such an implementation of Kepler GPUs could prove excellent for cloud gaming.

How NVIDIA’s Virtual Kepler GPUs and VGX Technology Works

NVIDIA is making all of this happen thanks to a virtualized technology based on the Kepler GPUs. The virtual tech, called VGX, has no physical wires or connections, which allows the hardware to support remote streaming of graphics and visuals.

Jen-Hsun’s NVIDIA team has utilized a unique GRID technology that is designed to improve cloud and online gaming, by reducing input latency by up to 30ms. This will lessen the time it takes the device to communicate with the virtual Kepler GPUs. The feature will translate to smoother online gaming opportunities, and will improve services like Gaikai.

The software will provide a virtual desktop for use on various devices that will also take advantage of the virtual GPU computing performance, which can usually only be found on a desktop or laptop PC.

According to Jeff Brown, General Manager of the Professional Solutions Group at NVIDIA, “VGX represents a new era in desktop virtualization.”

Brown also goes on to say that VGX “delivers an experience nearly indistinguishable from a full desktop while substantially lowering the cost of a virtualized PC.”

VGX and Virtual Kepler GPUs Available Thanks to Three Separate “Key Technologies”

In NVIDIA’s official press release, they identify that VGX virtual support is based on three different “key technologies”.

“NVIDIA VGX Boards. These are designed for hosting large numbers of users in an energy-efficient way. The first NVIDIA VGX board is configured with four GPUs and 16 GB of memory and fits into the industry-standard PCI Express interface in servers.”

“NVIDIA VGX GPU Hypervisor. This software layer integrates into commercial hypervisors,such as the CitrixXenServer, enabling virtualization of the GPU.”

“NVIDIA User Selectable Machines (USMs). This manageability option allows enterprises to configure the graphics capabilities delivered to individual users in the network, based on their demands. Capabilities range from true PC experiences available with the NVIDIA standard USM to enhanced professional 3D design and engineering experiences with NVIDIA Quadro® or NVIDIA NVS™ GPUs.”

Unfortunately, NVIDIA is not revealing specifics about the innovative technology, which is to be expected, but if anyone is interested in reading a little more on the subject then take a look at the press release that has been included (below).

What Virtual Kepler GPUs and VGX Cloud Technology Means for the Future

If this new virtual hardware can be implemented and rolled out properly by Jen-Hsun’s team, it will change the face of mobile gaming. Tablets, netbooks and mobile devices will be able to use the hardware to run graphic-intensive software virtually. Essentially, devices will no longer be held to system requirement standards. Of course, there will be limits, meaning it is not likely that we’ll be playing Crysis 3 on smartphones or iPads anytime soon, but thanks to the existence this new technology such ideas are not out of reach for the future.

One day, we may be able to play Crysis on a mobile device.

Show/Hide Press Release

NVIDIA Introduces World’s First Virtualized GPU, Accelerating Graphics for Cloud Computing
NVIDIA VGX Cloud Platform Puts GPUs in Enterprise Data Centers, Freeing Users to Run Microsoft Windows, Any Applications From Their Connected DeviceSAN JOSE, CA — (Marketwire) — 05/15/2012 — GPU Technology Conference — NVIDIA today unveiled the NVIDIA® VGX™ platform, which enables IT departments to deliver a virtualized desktop with the graphics and GPU computing performance of a PC or workstation to employees using any connected device.With the NVIDIA VGX platform in the data center, employees can now access a true cloud PC from any device — thin client, laptop, tablet or smartphone — regardless of its operating system, and enjoy a responsive experience for the full spectrum of applications previously only available on an office PC.NVIDIA VGX enables knowledge workers for the first time to access a GPU-accelerated desktop similar to a traditional local PC. The platform’s manageability options and ultra-low latency remote display capabilities extend this convenience to those using 3D design and simulation tools, which had previously been too intensive for a virtualized desktop.Integrating the VGX platform into the corporate network also enables enterprise IT departments to address the complex challenges of “BYOD” — employees bringing their own computing device to work. It delivers a remote desktop to these devices, providing users the same access they have on their desktop terminal. At the same time, it helps reduce overall IT spend, improve data security and minimize data center complexity.”NVIDIA VGX represents a new era in desktop virtualization,” said Jeff Brown, general manager of the Professional Solutions Group at NVIDIA. “It delivers an experience nearly indistinguishable from a full desktop while substantially lowering the cost of a virtualized PC.”The NVIDIA VGX platform is part of a series of announcements NVIDIA is making today at the GPU Technology Conference (GTC), all of which can be accessed in the GTC online press room.The VGX platform addresses key challenges faced by global enterprises, which are under constant pressure both to control operating costs and to use IT as a competitive edge that allows their workforces to achieve greater productivity and deliver new products faster. Delivering virtualized desktops can also minimize the security risks inherent in sharing critical data and intellectual property with an increasingly internationalized workforce.NVIDIA VGX is based on three key technology breakthroughs:NVIDIA VGX Boards. These are designed for hosting large numbers of users in an energy-efficient way. The first NVIDA VGX board is configured with four GPUs and 16 GB of memory, and fits into the industry-standard PCI Express interface in servers.NVIDIA VGX GPU Hypervisor. This software layer integrates into commercial hypervisors, such as the Citrix XenServer, enabling virtualization of the GPU.NVIDIA User Selectable Machines (USMs). This manageability option allows enterprises to configure the graphics capabilities delivered to individual users in the network, based on their demands. Capabilities range from true PC experiences available with the NVIDIA standard USM to enhanced professional 3D design and engineering experiences with NVIDIA Quadro® or NVIDIA NVS™ GPUs.The NVIDIA VGX platform enables up to 100 users to be served from a single server powered by one VGX board, dramatically improving user density on a single server compared with traditional virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) solutions. It sharply reduces such issues as latency, sluggish interaction and limited application support, all of which are associated with traditional VDI solutions.With the NVIDIA VGX platform, IT departments can serve every user in the organization — from knowledge workers to designers —with true PC-like interactive desktops and applications.NVIDIA VGX BoardsNVIDIA VGX boards are the world’s first GPU boards designed for data centers. The initial NVIDIA VGX board features four GPUs, each with 192 NVIDIA CUDA® architecture cores and 4 GB of frame buffer. Designed to be passively cooled, the board fits within existing server-based platforms.The boards benefit from a range of advancements, including hardware virtualization, which enables many users who are running hosted virtual desktops to share a single GPU and enjoy a rich, interactive graphics experience; support for low-latency remote display, which greatly reduces the lag currently experienced by users; and, redesigned shader technology to deliver higher power efficiency.NVIDIA VGX GPU Hypervisor

The NVIDIA VGX GPU Hypervisor is a software layer that integrates into a commercial hypervisor, enabling access to virtualized GPU resources. This allows multiple users to share common hardware and ensure virtual machines running on a single server have protected access to critical resources. As a result, a single server can now economically support a higher density of users, while providing native graphics and GPU computing performance.

This new technology is being integrated by leading virtualization companies, such as Citrix, to add full hardware graphics acceleration to their full range of VDI products.

NVIDIA User Selectable Machines

NVIDIA USMs allow the NVIDIA VGX platform to deliver the advanced experience of professional GPUs to those requiring them across an enterprise. This enables IT departments to easily support multiple types of users from a single server.

USMs allow better utilization of hardware resources, with the flexibility to configure and deploy new users’ desktops based on changing enterprise needs. This is particularly valuable for companies providing infrastructure as a service, as they can repurpose GPU-accelerated servers to meet changing demand throughout the day, week or season.

Leading Businesses Endorse NVIDIA VGX

“Jaguar Land Rover is a global company with an international workforce. The ‘holy grail’ for us is to deliver virtualized desktop to engineers overseas so we can harness the best engineering talent on the planet without risking the security of our new car designs. The NVIDIA VGX platform is the most promising step we’ve seen in addressing the user experience for our virtualized workforce. With NVIDIA VGX, engineers for the first time can run all of the office productivity and technical applications they need in a virtualized environment. This will dramatically improve the productivity of our global workforce.”
– Gordon McMullan, interim CTO, Jaguar Land Rover

“Larson Design Group is a growing company that teams with our clients to provide responsive, innovative solutions for facility, transportation, land development and environmental needs. We therefore look to deploy technologies that will help sustain our growing geographic reach, ease administration and allow our engineers to reach their creative maximum and be more connected to client needs. With NVIDIA VGX, our engineers can now take any mobile device to the client’s site, work interactively with them on a fully virtualized desktop and still maintain the industry’s highest productivity levels.”
– Keith S. Kuzio, CEO, Larson Design Group

“Desktop virtualization is rapidly becoming mainstream for enterprises. By leveraging the NVIDIA VGX platform, combined with XenDesktop and HDX technologies, we are enabling enterprise customers to virtually deliver graphics-intensive apps beyond power users and designers. Now, they can also serve users who require only occasional access to graphics-intensive apps, which previously would have been cost-prohibitive. The combined virtual desktop solution for serving these users can be reduced by up to 80 percent, while enabling users to securely access GPU-accelerated apps from any device.”
– Sumit Dhawan, vice president and general manager of Receivers and Gateways, Citrix

“NVIDIA virtualized GPU technology aligns with Cisco’s vision of cloud and delivery of desktop and rich-media applications. GPU virtualization is the one major technology challenge that has been holding back deeper adoption of VDI in the enterprise. We believe NVIDIA’s breakthrough will deliver the unique user experience and ease of management customers have been demanding.”
– David Yen, senior vice president and general manager of Data Center Business Group, Cisco

“Virtual desktop environments can enable mobile workforces to perform tasks more efficiently. With HP VirtualSystem utilizing HP Blade Servers and the NVIDIA VGX platform, clients can easily deploy a simplified virtualized environment that quickly delivers the information or applications users need.”
– Chuck Smith, vice president of Worldwide Industry Standard Servers, HP

Availability and Pricing
The NVIDIA VGX platform, including new NVIDIA VGX boards, the NVIDIA GPU Hypervisor and NVIDIA USMs, is planned to be available for deployment across the enterprise through NVIDIA’s hardware OEM and VDI partners later this year. Additional information is available at www.nvidia.com/object/vdi-desktop-virtualization.html.

Cloud Gaming Moves At The Blink Of An Eye With NVIDIA GeForce GRID
Tuesday, May 15, 2012

GPU Technology Conference — Gaming enters a new era today with the launch of the NVIDIA® GeForce® GRID cloud gaming platform, which allows gaming-as-a-service providers to stream next-generation games to virtually any device, without the lag that hampers current offerings.
With the GeForce GRID platform, gaming-as-a-service providers can deliver the most advanced visuals with lower latency, while incurring lower operating costs, particularly related to energy usage. Gamers benefit from the ability to play the latest, most sophisticated games on any connected device, including TVs, smartphones and tablets running iOS and Android.

“Gamers will now have access to seamlessly play the world’s best titles anywhere, anytime, from phones, tablets, TVs or PCs,” said Phil Eisler, general manager of cloud gaming at NVIDIA. “GeForce GRID represents a massive disruption in how games are delivered and played.”

GeForce GRID was introduced at the GPU Technology Conference (GTC), as part of a series of announcements from NVIDIA, all of which can be accessed in the GTC online press room.

The key technologies powering the new platform are NVIDIA GeForce GRID GPUs with dedicated ultra-low-latency streaming technology and cloud graphics software. Together, they fundamentally change the economics and experience of cloud gaming, enabling gaming-as-a-service providers to operate scalable data centers at costs that are in line with those of movie-streaming services.

NVIDIA GeForce GRID GPUs
Using the highly efficient NVIDIA Kepler™ architecture, NVIDIA GeForce GRID GPUs minimize power consumption by simultaneously encoding up to eight game streams. This allows providers to cost-effectively scale their service offerings to support millions of concurrent gamers.

Featuring two Kepler architecture-based GPUs, each with its own encoder, the processors have 3,072 CUDA® technology cores and 4.7 teraflops of 3D shader performance. This enables providers to render highly complex games in the cloud and encode them on the GPU, rather than the CPU, allowing their servers to simultaneously run more game streams. Server power-consumption per game stream is reduced to about one-half that of previous implementations, an important metric for data centers.

Fast Streaming Technology
Fast streaming technology reduces server latency to as little as 10 milliseconds — less than one-tenth the blink of an eye — by capturing and encoding a game frame in a single pass. The GeForce GRID platform uses fast-frame capture, concurrent rendering and single-pass encoding to achieve ultra-fast game streaming.

The latency-reducing technology in GeForce GRID GPUs compensates for the distance in the network, so gamers will feel like they are playing on a gaming supercomputer located in the same room. Lightning-fast play is now possible, even when the gaming supercomputer is miles away.

GeForce GRID Enables the Virtual Game Console
Also at GTC, NVIDIA and Gaikai demonstrated a virtual game console, consisting of an LG Cinema 3D Smart TV running a Gaikai application connected to a GeForce GRID GPU in a server 10 miles away. Instant, lag-free play was enabled on a highly complex PC game, with only an Ethernet cable and wireless USB game pad connected to the TV.

Leading Gaming-as-a-Service Providers Companies Endorse GeForce GRID
A number of leading gaming-as-a-service providers announced their support of the GeForce GRID. Among them:

“Not so long ago, engineers said cloud gaming was impossible, and that it was not possible for cloud gaming to be as fast or high-quality as local, console-based gaming. Obviously, they didn’t know that Gaikai and NVIDIA would be working together. We’re proving the doubters wrong.”
– David Perry, CEO, Gaikai

“Just like iPhone games have taken over the handheld games market because of ease of use, cloud gaming will expand gaming by making it incredibly convenient.”
– Guy De Beer, CEO, Playcast Media System

“We have worked closely with NVIDIA to use the GeForce GRID processor architecture in Ubitus GameCloud®. Ubitus delivers highly scalable cloud gaming solutions with a native-like gaming experience for service providers.”
– Wesley Kuo, CEO, Ubitus

Game Developers Endorse GeForce GRID
A range of leading game developers also announced their support of GeForce GRID. Among them:

“At Epic, we’re really excited about NVIDIA’s announcement of the GeForce GRID platform. NVIDIA’s GRID technology, with its latency reduction and improved image quality, combined with higher density and power efficiency, are significant steps toward making cloud gaming a true console-like experience today, and bringing that high-quality gaming experience to more people.

“Cloud has the potential to deliver an even more powerful experience in the future by enabling ultra-high-end GPUs like the GeForce GTX 680 to stream ultra-high-quality graphics such as those made possible by UE4 to a huge range of devices, well beyond console capabilities. The result will be that more people can enjoy EPIC’s games on more devices at higher quality.”
– Tim Sweeney, founder and CEO, EPIC Games

“The compelling advances that GeForce GRID introduces to cloud gaming are especially beneficial to Capcom game fans, as we are focused on delivering AAA action games that are reliant on low latency for the best experience. We are, therefore, very excited about NVIDIA’s contributions in this space.”
– Masaru Ijuin, deputy general manager, Technology Research and Development, Capcom Co., Ltd.

“Online gaming with underlying cloud infrastructure is an important part of modern games. Cloud gaming is an exciting new way of delivering games to streaming customers. In reviewing NVIDIA’s GeForce GRID, I see the potential for this technology to reduce some of the latency issues that affect game streaming. This is an exciting development.”
– Juancho Buchanan, vice president of Technology, THQ Inc.

For more information about GeForce GRID, please visit: http://www.nvidia.com/geforcegrid.

Razer Concept Designs: The Switchblade vs. Project Fiona

Navam Niles — Thu, 17 May 2012 03:44:04 PDT

Razer Aims For The Future

One of the best-known brands for high-end gaming devices, Razer, is now trying to break into the portable gaming console market with some truly remarkable concepts: Project Fiona and Razer Switchblade. Dedicated portable gaming consoles have become better and more popular over the past few years thanks to some remarkable improvements in hardware and a surge in demand. Serious competition from Android and iOS devices has also pushed manufactures to adopt new technologies in a bid to stand out from the competition.

One of the major advantages that portable gaming consoles have is the dedicated gaming hardware. However, the improvement in touch-screen technology and the vast array of add-ons available for smartphones and tablets will erode this advantage in the coming years. Thus, the challenge is to create a device that is as attractive as our favorite smartphones or tablets but far more capable to meet the requirements of the most demanding gamers.

Keeping that in mind, both concept devices developed by Razer, feature some genuinely innovative technology and bold designs, allowing gamers to experience high-end gaming similar to a PC while also providing an ultimate level of mobility. That last point is particularly relevant, since it would ultimately mean that these devices would be able to compete effectively with smartphones and tablets while also providing the same gaming experience you would generally expect to find on a PC or other high end gaming console.

Key Specs: Razer Switchblade vs. Razer Project Fiona

Razer Switchblade

The current dimensions of the concept design are 172mm x 115mm x 25 mm. The Razer Switchblade also comes loaded with WiFi and 3G. External ports include a MINI HDMI, USB3.0, Standard Headphone and Mic ports.

Importantly, the Switchblade will feature an Intel Atom Processor. As of now, it is designed to run on Windows 7.

Project Fiona

The highlights of Razer’s Project Fiona are the Intel Core i7 processor and the 10.1″ 1280×800 display. The system features a multitouch interface, two gamepads, and an array of sensors including 3-axis gyro, magnetometer and accelerometer, all of which put together will allow an unprecedented level of control in a variety of different gaming scenarios. In addition, similar to standard consoles, the system will also feature force-feedback.

Razer has also devoted a lot of energy towards developing a superior audio system for the device, and as a result, to my knowledge, this is the only tablet PC that is compatible with Dolby 7.1 surround-sound, which will further help it to stand out from the rest of the competition. Project Fiona will also be WiFi (802.11b/g/n) and Bluetooth 3.0 compatible (a standard that is fast becoming redundant). However, unlike the Switchblade, it will not be 3G compatible.

The Concept Features

Why the Razer Switchblade Stands Out

The Razer Switchblade looks like a mini-notebook, but that is as far as the comparison goes. Unlike a traditional mini-notebook, the Switchblade features a technology that incorporates a multi-touch screen with a dynamic tactile keyboard that actually adapts to the particular game currently played. In other words, the keyboard automatically detects a particular game’s interface and then projects the relevant command and control keys onto the mechanical keys. More importantly, the keyboard can also change during a game (depending on the game) and give you an entirely different set of controls depending on the situation.

What is quite remarkable about all this is the fact that the visual elements are not from some standard format but instead, taken directly from the game so that you can instantly recognize them (e.g. DoTA screenshot on the right). Gamers will also have the opportunity to use Razer software to build their own custom profiles for their games or download them from the Razer website. The level of customization promised is pretty impressive as gamers will be able to generate the template designs with their own favorite artwork and then assign the keys or macros of their choice (animated keys and static keys will be supported).

Why Project Fiona Stands Out

Three things make Razer’s Project Fiona stand out. First, there is the user interface, where the combination of dual controllers and a multi-touch screen make this an innovative portable gaming device. Then there is the “coolness” factor involved with whipping out a 10.1″ tablet PC with a dedicated gaming interface; no matter where you go, eyebrows will be raised, and mouths will drool. Last but not least, yet importantly, the Project Fiona promises the PC-level specs (e.g. i7 core) to provide gamers with full access to a variety of different games with virtually the same level of performance they would come to expect while playing on an above-average PC.

The Known Unknowns

Switchblade

Since the Razer Switchblade is is still a concept design, we are still unaware of some significant details. Firstly, we do not actually know its name (Switchblade is the codename of the project and not the product). Secondly, we do not know about other performance elements such as memory and the battery (anything less than about 8 hours will be disappointing). Thirdly, we have no idea how much this device will cost. Finally, we do not know when the device will be launched (if it will be launched at all) because this is a concept design after all.

Project Fiona

Like the Razer Switchblade, we don’t know the name of the device yet. In addition, we are not sure about other hardware elements like the battery, and this is arguably more decisive in this case considering the specs involved (more powerful processor, 10.1” touchscreen, etc.). We are also not too sure about the price of the product, but we can be quite sure that if this device hits the market within the year or so, it will face severe competition from rival iOS or Android tablets, many of which now feature accessories to facilitate more intense gaming. Therefore, anything that is more expensive than a high-end iPad or Android tablet may seem unattractive.

The Verdict

Switchblade

This Razer Switchblade is certainly an impressive portable gaming system, and I can confidently say that I have never seen anything like it before. The defining feature is certainly the gaming interface, which intelligently adapts to the game currently played. Now, while this gives it an edge over similar devices I am still a little worried that the processing power will not be enough to enjoy titles that are more demanding. That said, assuming the battery is satisfactory, for most games this will be a near-perfect alternative to the PC and in some cases it might even be a better choice, while also providing gamers with an unprecedented level of mobility.

Project Fiona

Razer’s Project Fiona brings intense gaming features to the most innovative piece of technology to emerge in recent years. It is combining the trusted interface of standard portable consoles with the futuristic tablet PC technology that is rapidly becoming a standard part of our daily digital lives. Equally noteworthy is the fact that this device promises to deliver superb gaming performance with components like the i7 processor.

However, this device will not be as portable as standard tablet PCs, and it is going to face some intense competition. If it can effectively compete against rival tablet PCs in terms of both price and technology, this will certainly be an enormous success. So how do you think the Razer Switchblade will compare to the Razer’s Project Fiona? Keep Reading!

Project Fiona Vs Switchblade

When comparing Project Fiona and The Switchblade, let us first look at what both these devices have in common. Both these devices are innovative in the sense that they represent a new stage in the evolution of portable gaming devices. In addition, both devices are focused on bringing PC-level gaming to portable platforms.

Yet there are key differences too and perhaps the most obvious one is the portability factor. The Razer Switchblade is obviously more portable due to it’s relatively compact dimensions and minimalistic design, which make it easier to carry around easily. Razer’s Project Fiona, on the other hand, might almost certainly require a special carrying case that could look rather bulky but let us not forget that it is going to feature a gorgeous 10.1″ screen.

The differences in the interface may also play a crucial factor when appealing to different types of players. The Switchblade’s dynamic keyboard is certainly going to appeal to a wide variety of gamers and seems to more adaptable to different types of games. Project Fiona, on the other hand, seems more specialized towards console-based games like first-person shooters and racing games, where the array of sensors and the dual gamepads can provide gamers with a more immersive experience.

Finally, there is performance, where Project Fiona seems to do a better job and given its size, I think an i7 processor is a sensible choice. In fact, I could honestly imagine someone replacing and Xbox or PlayStation with this system (I’m not saying that this is a better option, but it is certainly possible).

The Switchblade, on the other hand, is more likely to complement rather than substitute a computer or a traditional gaming console.

Your Thoughts?

What do you think about Razer’s concept devices? Would you prefer the Switchblade or Project Fiona? Let us know!

10 of The Funniest YouTube Videos That Are Slightly Off

Briley — Tue, 15 May 2012 12:00:14 PDT

Every once in a while we will find ourselves browsing YouTube, checking out funny videos, and we end up crossing an invisible line. The line can be hard to discern at first, and by the time we realize we’ve crossed it, it can already be too late.

The invisible line is that point that signifies what is commonly acceptable in the world of morality and what is just freakin’ nuts. Folks often refer to this alternate reality of YouTube as “the weird part” and the nickname is certainly justifiable.

We’re about to explore the weird part of YouTube. Regardless of how weird things can get on the internet, or YouTube, there’s a chance that the weirdest videos out there will make us chuckle like merry little schoolgirls.

We’ve been inspired to make our audience giggle like schoolgirls, and to do that, we’re going to subject you to a few videos we found on YouTube that were slightly off, yet still funny.

Keep in mind when we say “slightly off”, we actually mean these videos are off the deep end.

Ten Funny YouTube Videos That Are Slightly Off

Everyone deserves a laugh, even you, so we’ve compiled a list of some of the weirdest, but still slightly silly, videos we’ve come across while browsing YouTube.

Crooked Orcus Rot… Wait, What’s an Orcus?

This video did make us giggle and sneer, because of the strange video segments and odd scenes that randomly tend to pop in for a moment and make you wonder what it is that you just saw.

There’s no doubt that this video may creep some folks out, because honestly, it creeped us the hell out too. The good news is that we can actually sit through our next session with our psychiatrist and get our money’s worth.

Down With The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Because That’s a Mouthful)

This one is, well… just watch it. Please keep in mind that Kathy Bates warned us about this in the Waterboy, ”Ninja Turtles are the devil!”

Old Man Groovin’ to Led Zeppelin

There’s not much to say about this one, besides commending this supremely talented, and particularly special, man for his uber-grooves. Man, this old guy gets down to some Zeppelin.

The “Don’t Try This at Home” Ceiling Fan Trick

Do we actually have to say it folks?

Okay then, please DO NOT try this at home because, as you can see from the video, it’s a pretty stupid move. We are of course assuming that you like being able to hear, better than this guy.

What is a Donkey, Punch?

This video takes a little bit of logic to piece together. It might prove difficult, for some folks, to make the connection between “What is a Donkey,” and why this video is so funny. This haplessly, clueless man was so bursting to announce his answer, and mean ol’ Trebek shot him down.

The Top Five Funniest YouTube Videos

Now that we’ve gotten the weirdest videos out of the way we’ll move in to more hilarious territory. Here are the top five funniest YouTube videos that are still, slightly awkward.

Take That Burgundy (Anchorwoman Sausage Blooper)!

Ron Burgundy can’t be allowed to have all of the fun on set! These anchorwomen are here to show Burgundy a thing or two about comedy.

Let us warn you though, it’s a sausage fest!

Actual Cannibal Shia Labeouf

Maybe it’s the beat to the song, or maybe it’s the insane lyrics, but one thing is for certain, this video cracks us up every time we watch. Sure, it means we have a dark sense of humor, but it also means we can take a joke. We’re counting on the fact that you can take a joke as well; otherwise this list might start to get a little bit… well, exhausting (if it hasn’t already).

Chris Brown: American Superhero

This video may be crossing a few moral lines, but we don’t care, because it’s funny. It’s so dark, so disturbing and so hilariously presented that we had to include it on the list.

Hopefully we can find a fallout shelter to hide in before we get pelted with emails about women’s rights. No, we’re not trying to be funny with that last statement, we’re genuinely scared of women’s rights advocates. They can be dangerous (not all of them)!

Songify This: Can’t Hug Every Cat

This video is so insanely cute, that it makes our whiskers fret. It also causes us to giggle like schoolgirls, which if you can remember correctly, was the whole point of this list.

Oh you sweet, eHarmony girl, we do hope you find your knight in shining armor, and maybe a cat or two to hug along the way.

Modern Politics, And Some Gas

Your family may have some unpleasant gas from time to time (God knows ours does), but there’s no way that they can top this hippo’s propensity for sharting. This hippo gives new meaning to the word, “sharting”.

YouTube Offers a Wide Expanse of Hilarity, If You Can Traverse it

It’s no secret that we missed a few YouTube videos. The world of YouTube is vast, and there are always new clips, segments and home videos that prove to be more hilarious than anything else ever released. Please feel free to share your favorite YouTube clips in the comments section below, and if you think something we’ve included isn’t funny, feel free to let us know that too. Although, if you’re part of the Chris Brown fan club, please stay away.

If you thought these videos were funny, you might also enjoy 10 Awesome Real Life Recreations of Video Games.

5 Apps That Will Keep Your Bank Account in The Black

The Tech Labs — Tue, 15 May 2012 00:57:37 PDT

Keeping track of your personal finances has never been easier with applications that track your funds. There are several great apps that allow you to see your bank accounts at a glance, and quickly manage your money from the palm of your hand. See what percentage of your money goes toward food, transportation and housing expenses. Never again worry about a bounced check with the five apps that keep your bank account in the black.

Mint

Arguably the most comprehensive financial management app, Mint keeps meticulous track of all of your finances. Link your savings and checking accounts to this app and see real-time updating of all of your transactions. Add in your credit cards and keep track of payments and interest. Set a budget based on dollar amounts of percentages, and Mint will make sure you stick to it. This application also keeps track of your retirement and investment accounts.

RedLaser

This app uses the camera on your device to scan bar codes of items before you purchase. Compare prices at nearby stores for the best deals as you shop. Save money on a wide range of items, from groceries to housewares and more. RedLaser will help you keep cash in your pocket by letting you save your hard- earned dollars.

SmartBudget

This app is designed for users who like the “pen and paper” style of budgeting. With nifty categories for every budget item, Smart Budget allows you to set up a budget that works for you. Allocate funds for different categories and track exactly where your money is going. Enter your income and expenditures and let the app do the rest. With a free trial, this app is definitely worth a try.

Spendings

Similar to a checkbook register, Spendings’ program adds and subtracts your debits and credits, making it simple for you to keep track of your spending. Set up to 10 budgets at a time, and set aside funds for savings with this cool app. Its minimalist design makes it user-friendly and easy to read.

My Weekly Budget

As the name suggests, My Weekly Budget helps you keep track of your budget from week to week. This app allows you to create custom reports. View what percentage of your funds is spent on each category at a glance. Get reminders of bills due and notifications when your account balance is low. My Weekly Budget is a great app for someone who is looking to streamline their budgeting with a simple app.

Personal finance apps make sure your account never goes in the red. With apps that track your spending and even help find the best credit card rates, you can manage your money quickly and easily.

This guest post was brought to you by Sam Peters, a blogger focusing on personal finance and managing your credit. She also specializes in helping people find the best credit card rates.