News

21 May 2009, 10:05 AM

New iPhone rumoured to have FM Transmitter

A source close to Apple suggests the rumoured hardware update will be ready for launch on July 17th, reports Wired.

It also looks at more apparently leaked specifications, which include Apple dropping the current 8GB model in favour of a 16GB and 32GB range previously reported.

It highlights a new OLED screen, a digital compass, built in FM transmitter and an illuminated Apple logo on the reverse of the handset.

14 May 2009, 9:33 AM

RIM plans new Bluetooth headset, FM transmitter

At least two new BlackBerry accessories are well into development, according to RIM accessories VP Antoine Boucher. The first is a new Bluetooth headset, so far codenamed the Alpha 1, which uses an over-the-ear loop combined with a moulded in-ear bud. The unit is said to be larger than the BlueAnt Q1 but smaller than the Jawbone Prime, and equipped with noise cancellation as well as a micro USB charging port, now standard on RIM hardware. The device is however limited to mono output, as well as simple on/off and dial/hangup controls. Text-to-speech and speech-to-text functions may be supported in the future.

Boucher has also revealed more details on the Bluetooth visor mount, meant for driving. The device should additionally include an FM transmitter to broadcast to car stereos, and a release date has now been pegged for June or July.

It is meanwhile hinted that the company is looking to produce or support Bluetooth watches, which would enable BlackBerries to provide notices of incoming messages without having to take a phone out of a pocket. Notifications could be attached to several different forms of messaging, including e-mail, texts, instant messaging, Twitter and Facebook. RIM may also be investigating the possibility of a TV out-enabled Remote Stereo Gateway, which would exploit the storage and video capabilities of modern BlackBerries.

23 Apr 2009, 12:03 PM

ABC disappointed by Fiji transmitter shutdown

The ABC says it is disappointed Fiji's military backed regime has shutdown Radio Australia's FM transmitter.

Earlier today, officers from Fiji's Ministry of Information and soldiers escorted local technicians to the two Radio Australia FM transmitter and ordered them to be shut down.

The director of the ABC's international operations, Murray Green, says the shutdown of the transmitters removes one of the few remaining uncensored sources of information in Fiji.

9 Apr 2009, 6:19 PM

Next-gen iPhone - June launch tipped

According to the latest leaks from Taiwanese component suppliers, Apple have already started clawing in the parts required for the next-gen iPhone. Apple are planning to launch the new handset in June this year.

It’s unclear whether that “launch” means an announcement or the new iPhone physically hitting shelves. While the original iPhone took an extended period to reach stores after Apple announced it, news of this new replacement would likely cease the majority of sales of the current iPhone 3G. Therefore it’s in Apple’s best interest to have the new model ready for sale simultaneous with its announcement.

Previous leaks regarding components have suggested that the next-gen iPhone will include WiFi draft-n, an FM transmitter and a 3.2-megapixel camera with autofocus. As for software functionality, it’s expected to record video and have compass features.

26 Mar 2009, 9:37 AM

Apple announces iPhone OS 3.0 update with FM Transmitter

After announcing that they've sold over 17 million iPhones, Apple today dropped the bomb we've all been waiting for: iPhone's 3.0 operating system update. Notable updates include enhancements to the App store, namely In-App purchase, which will allow users to purchase additional levels or elements to games and other apps, with 70% of the charge going straight to the developers' pockets.

Taking a leaf out of the Nintendo DSi's book, iPhone and iPod Touch users will be able to play against each other wirelessly over Bluetooth, once they locate they're within proximity with other app owners. Users will form an IP connection, and can compete against each other in whichever app they share.

Developers will now be able to build apps that can "talk directly to the hardware", for example the FM transmitter. Apple will allow greater control to the devs for compatability with hardware, so the FM transmitter could allow for better radio stations.

12 Mar 2009, 4:00 PM

Business news website recommends FM transmitters

The business news website, Business Report, this week published this FM Transmitter article:

Don’t let your car lag behind in the hi-tech race! In some cases that fancy car-kit may not support the next generation iPod. And, what if you don't have a new hi-tech digitally enabled car, but still want to somehow use your iPod in your car?

Some clever tech guys have come up with a few solutions to this problem. One of these involves attaching a low-powered FM transmitter to the iPod's audio jack and transmitting the signal on a frequency of your choice.

It's like setting up a small radio station. The output signal is so low from the transmitter that the range only really extends to your vehicle and a few metres surrounding.