Hasta La Gadget!

There’s no doubt that the last few months of 2012 are going to be pretty big for Microsoft thanks to the incoming launch of Windows 8, but now CEO Steve Ballmer says that the launch of the new OS could be bigger than most of us are expecting. Speaking in a recent interview with The Seattle Times, Ballmer elaborated on his recent comments that 2012 would be the most “epic” year in Microsoft’s history, saying that the launch of Windows 8 could eclipse that of Windows 95.

For those who don’t remember the launch of Windows 95 all too well (or weren’t even around, which is strange thought): it was big. Windows 95 was everywhere when it launched, and it did a lot to make Windows a household name – not easy for a computer operating system in the early-to-mid ’90s. Now Ballmer hopes that the launch of Windows 8 can top the historic launch of Windows 95. “You know, Windows 95 was certainly the biggest thing in the last 20 years until now,” he said. “I think Windows 8 certainly surpasses it. It’s a little hard to compare things like the founding (of the company) and the introduction of the first popular PC and the system that popularized it, but it’s at that scale.”

Indeed, we’re seeing Windows 8 make a lot of changes to the classic Windows formula, perhaps most importantly boasting a touch-friendly design. Can it top the obsession of Windows 95? That’s a pretty lofty goal for Microsoft, and it’s going to be hard to pull off. With so many manufacturers going all-in with Windows 8, however, and the fact that Windows 8 signals a departure from Windows installments of the past, it just might.

Ballmer also talked a little bit about the pricing for Surface in his interview with The Seattle Times, saying that the “sweet spot” for pricing will probably range from $300 to $700 or $800. That’s a pretty broad range, to be sure, and it suggests that Microsoft may not be all that interested in having Surface compete with less expensive 7-inch tablets like the Nexus 7 or the Kindle Fire HD 7. We’re still waiting for solid pricing details though, so Ballmer’s estimate could change by the time Surface actually arrives. Stay tuned.

Ballmer: Windows 8 launch could be bigger than Windows 95 is written by Eric Abent & originally posted on SlashGear.
© 2005 – 2012, SlashGear. All right reserved.

Casting your vote is more or less the most American thing you can do. It’s the central tenet of our system of government. So screwing with it is a big deal. But can’t it just get with the times already? Turns out… maybe not. More »

It seems every year we’re treated to promises that lightbulbs are going next-gen, complete with networking features that will help us automate our homes. Few of these products get past the concept stage, so Phil Bosua decided to use a Kickstarter to make the networked bulb a reality. Fully funded in less than one week, the LIFX Lightbulb is a multicolored LED lightbulb which can be both networked and controlled from your smartphone.

Networked lightbulbs offer potential ranging from automated setups to increased energy efficiency, but you’ll probably notice the remote control features first. The Kickstarter promises that you’ll be able to change the color and brightness from your phone, or even have the quality of light match the beat of the song you’re playing. And since it’s all packed into the bulb, all you have to do is simply change your existing bulbs, instead of installing a whole new system. We haven’t tried it out yet, but it seems pretty cool. If you pledge $65 right now, you’ll get a LIFX lightbulb when they come out later this year.

By Ubergizmo. Related articles: Hitachi G-Connect: A Wireless Storage + Router for Mobiles, Philips Fidelio SoundSphere docking speakers work with AirPlay,

Beach season may be over in the United States, but in Australia (and the rest of the Southern Hemisphere) it’s just getting started. And in preparation for the oncoming hordes of beachgoers heading to Queensland, Australia, lifeguards are prepping remotely piloted drones to monitor the beaches.

Surf Life Saving Queensland has chosen Aerobot’s Ring Drone to patrol the beach, and drop buoys on those swimmers struggling to keep their heads above water. The drones will also have horns installed, to warn swimmers of dangers like sharks.

Maybe the inevitable Baywatch reboot will feature nerds with remote controls, instead of Pamela Anderson. I’d watch that! Video of the drone model, not fighting sharks in the full post (more…)

By Ubergizmo. Related articles: Call of Duty Black Ops 2 MQ-27 Dragonfire drone passes the FCC, Drones can save lives, provide emergency relief provisions,

Fujifilm has been mining inspiration from retro cameras lately, and their newest point and shoot is positively dripping with mid-century style. The XF1 is a tiny point-and-shoot with a 2/3-inch EXR CMOS sensor that clocks in at 12 megapixels. Possibly the most exciting aspect of this camera is its new 25-100mm f/1.8 – f/4.9 lens that should handle excellently in low light. At its widest angle, the camera should feel like it’s using a pancake lens.

Fujifilm packed a whole lot of other great specs in the tiny package, including a 3 inch LCD, 1080p video recording, and ISO going up to 12800. And in keeping with the retro feel, the camera has a full manual settings, including dials on the back and top. The XF1 comes covered in your choice of three leathers, and should be available for $500 next month.

By Ubergizmo. Related articles: FinePix F600 EXR announced by Fujifilm, Leica’s Gorgeous New Rangefinder Cameras Are Impressive, Expensive,