Thursday, May 2, 2013

Latest Gadgets And Advancments In Technology

Technology is an ever evolving science.As time goes by, scientists discover greater ways of creating futuristic and new age gadgets.These gadgets help man perform more efficiently on a daily basis.

Here's introducing the latest gadgets of the 21st century....
  • Samsung EX2F Smart Camera
  • Samsung Smart School Solution
  • LG Smart TV
  • Google Glass
  • Samsung Galaxy S4

Samsung SMART CAMERA EX2F



Front View of the EX2F

They said it was too great a challenge to create a camera that could capture images as flawless as the naked eye could see… until Samsung proved them wrong and introduced their EX2F smart camera into the world of smart devices. This incredible device eliminates the disbelief that a camera so compact could incorporate such features that allow for immaculate photography.



With its internal ND (Neutral Density) filter, the Samsung EX2F is able to perfect every captured image.  This filter, similar to the iris of the eye, controls the amount of light that enters into the camera. Two useful outcomes of this feature are that, due to the reduction of light entering into the camera, it helps:

1. Create dimension in your pictures, and
2. Produce a shallow depth of field giving you better focus on the subject while blurring out the background.
Rear View of the EX2F
*Weather conditions are no obstacle as it can function efficiently at the different exposures.
Swivel AMOLED Display
Think it’s too absurd to share pictures instantly without any cables? With the EX2F’s built-in Wi-Fi, nothing can restrain you from sharing your special moments instantly. The Wi-Fi connectivity allows for you to upload photos onto:
  • Facebook,
  • YouTube,
  • Instagram,
  • Or email photos directly.
In addition to this, a SMART LINK has been created to make saving photos, onto any compatible smartphone, easier and more accessible.
Although the aforementioned features make up a small portion of what the smart camera actually entails, these advancements are the reason for viewing “real-life” photography and enabling us to share photos immediately. The Samsung EX2F has definitely initiated a new way of thinking, in terms of smart camera technology.
For more information check out these links:

Author: Ricola Pillay
References:


Samsung EX2F

With Samsung’s newest innovation photography will be simple as 1+1.The Samsung EX2F packs a magnificent magnesium alloy body for rough reliability, the tough but light EX2F trends with your on the go life style.
One of the Samsung EX2F’s smart features comes from granting you complete control over exposure, this is done by the EX2F’s Full manual control which lets you capture those trigger moments you might have missed on auto mode, it also includes “aperaturture priority” which makes sure the main focus stands out from various surroundings, as well as “Sutter priority” which captures fast movements. The cameras built-in professional front key wheel allows for easy adjustment setting without missing any of those special moments. The EX2fs dual dial offers greater accessibility to numerous camera modes.
The EX2F was contrived to allow the user to control images in the sense of different colour, resolution and exposure difference this is done by the cameras integrated converter program which allows one to edit files that contain uncompressed original data which at not yet been processed(RAW Files).
The EX2F produces an amazing display which maximizes battery life and allows you to take shots from just about any angle with its AMOLED swivel display this display means that one can view images in direct sunlight. 




Although the price of the EX2F is a small fortune at R4500 it still offers more with an external speaker to enhance audio as well as an HDMI port so that you can view your 1080P full HD recording. The EX2F also has various shooting modes such as:
  • ·         PIP(picture in picture) which allows you to insert a picture or movie within another capture
  • ·         Split shot allows you to merge up to three pictures
·         Live panorama 
These features and accessories are only a hint of what it the EX2F has. The Samsung EX2F truly is part of the “smart” family.

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visit these links for more information
REFERENCES
www.advancedimagingpro.com last visited 2 May 2013
www.samsung.com last visited 2 May 2013

AUTHOR: Raees Dawood

Samsung Smart School




The Samsung Smart School solution is a digital education package which includes tablets (the Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1) and software designed to provide better teacher-to-student interaction, more efficient communication and create an improved classroom setting.
Features of the system include  information sharing, communication capabilities between teachers and pupils, group activities, instantaneous quiz results and student display monitoring.

Samsung Smart School makes use of the Android operating system. All of the solution’s components are designed and made  by Samsung which helps ensure compatibility between all the devices. The Samsung tablets are then linked with an education software.







The Samsung smart school components include:

Galaxy tab 10.1
  • Samsung Galaxy Note.10.1 ( Ice cream sandwich or Jelly bean OS)
  •  E-board
  • Connecting server
  •  Smart schools solution software

The key unique features of the Samsung smart school system are:

  • Screen Sharing: This feature allows teachers with tablets to display content on their students' tablets and students to display their content on each other's tablets. This helps with class interaction.
  • Information Sharing: Content such as  documents, movie clips, images, and URLs can be shared with students by sending it to their tablet.
  • Messaging Questions and answers: The system has a  Question and answer app that enables students to actively participate in the classroom by messaging the teacher and asking questions.
  •  SIM student information management: All student information is made readily available to the teacher e.g. Attendance Grades, learner progress etc.
  •  Remote control and Screen lock: The teacher is in full control, The Teacher is able to lock students screen or an input function on students' tablets to ensure safe and correct use of the device.
     Memphis City school makes use of Smart School Software

The use of the latest gadgets and technological advancements in the Smart School system help us improve education .The Samsung smart school solution has found a way to bridge the gap between technology and education creating a more interactive classroom environment.


Author: Sibusiso Shikwambana         
                                                                               Edited by: Kopano Khunou



THE ROLE OF SAMSUNG SMART SCHOOL IN CREATING AN INTERACTIVE CLASSROOM

 

Samsung has observed the increased use of IT and PCs in education over the past several years. Realizing the potential benefits that tablets can offer in the classroom environment – from enabling real-time interactions and communication in class to delivering mobile digital educational content – Samsung created the solution named Samsung Smart School which focuses entirely on the learning environment.

 
Samsung Smart School aims to address the following key areas:
● Creating an interactive classroom-learning environment that would result in better student engagement and academic performance
● Helping teachers more efficiently manage their classrooms and student's learning
● Enabling schools to smoothly implement and manage a packaged educational solution 
Samsung has focused on these three areas based on extensive research with educators about their needs and requirements for an improved learning environment. Samsung designed specific components to address these key need areas. There are three core components of Samsung Smart School:

● The Interactive Management Solution which supports in class interactive education using tools such as screen sharing and monitoring, group activities, Q&A, testing, and instant polls.
● The Learning Management System which can be used during or after class to help teachers with classroom management and lesson planning by being able to upload and share course material, create schedules, post to school or subject boards, access student information, participate in forums, create quizzes and send and receive messages. 
● The Student Information System for managing student information such as attendance, special education plans, and contact information.


    
    

      Author: Kopano Khunou






                                                                   Edited by : Sibusiso Shikwambana


    References







    LG Smart TV

    If you are considering buying a home improvement product, look no more. Four times the resolution, four times the wow! The 84LM9600 84" Class Ultra High Definition 3D TV with Smart TV is definitely a top notch regarding its performance. It is easy to use. The more the advanced the technology, the better the big screen displays its benefits. It is definitely a quality-driven product. *
    * 4 out of 5 consumers would recommend this to a friend.

    In society, our biggest worries are capabilities. Taking into consideration the generation gap, newer devices are generally just slightly improved versions of the older devices. It is safe to say that as a society, we will never be satisfied! Electronic devices available for purchase are on the market with the purpose of improving a particular aspect of your life. They make our lives easier & convenient, thus we need to take note of the extensive technology that is responsible for making them work. Electronic devices are personal gate keepers for consumers.

    Now, introducing the price tag... a hefty R180,000.00. The appetite for brand names continues to outweigh the appeal of low prices. Let's face it; the LG Smart TV is one of the greatest accomplishments yet. With easy access to limitless entertainment from movies, TV apps, games & videos, a whole new world of digital experience is a button away! The best of theatres, brought to your family room.

    For further information, visit:
    http://www.lg.com/us/tvs/lg-84LM9600-led-tv
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OHSL4QC-Xng

    Author: Phenyo Malele
    Editor: Lebogang Sekgabi


    The Experience only 4 TIMES BETTER


    The LG Smart TV is just another TV without its awesome features. These features give arise to the EXPERIENCE of the technological genius behind the LG 84" 4K High Definition Smart TV. This TV, unlike other TVs, has fast internet connection and built-in Wi-fi for great access to the world around you.
    Ultra HD TV viewers get higher resolution than those of normal HD TVs. The Resolution Upscaler component improves the resolution therefor enhancing the viewer's experience. This TV has the ability to convert from 2D to 3D and vice versa, giving a clearer picture quality from any angle, from the comfort of your own home.
     
    The Picture Wizard aligns your images for any adjustments you may wish to do, collaborating perfectly with the Intelligence Sensor which gives you an optimum picture characteristic.
     It has a ten set speaker with two subwoofers exerting 50W and 2,2 Sound yielding a distinct and flawless sound making your surrounding come alive
     
     
     

    You get a variety of medium control over your channels; whether you are waving your hand, using your voice or scrolling the wheel on the
    remote. It compensates the lazy days. 

     
     

    Talk about being green! The Smart Energy Saving feature helps you save money and our planet. By activating the power-save mode, you automatically save electricity as the TV uses alternative energy sources.
     


    What better way of closing this NEXT BEST THING IN TECHNOLOGY, than that which cares about our endangered planet. Clearly this device wants us to see  the future, LITERALLY. 
     
     
     
     

     Author: Lebogang Sekgabi
    Editor: Thendo Vhulahani

     
     
     
     

    EMBRACE THE COUCH POTATOE IN YOU!!

    APPLICATIONS IN THE LG ULTR HD SMART TV


     

    The LG 84" Class Ultra High Definition Smart TV is the answer to every couch potatoes prayers.this new intelligent television set has internet connection that allows you to access to over 200 different built in applications. Phenomenal right! The applications in this device offer optimal entertainment for the whole family.Regardless of your age or interests they will keep you glued to your TV set, increasing the population in the couch potatoes species.

    This Smart TV includes applications such as the LG Cloud. This device allows you to access saved content, upload video's, music and photo's and share them with your friends from your TV. For better viewing you can upload files from your smartphone to your cloud app by using the "Mobile Auto Upload" option.

    LG Music Player is an application that allows you to easily share, find and view videos, photos and  music from your Android Phone. It also allows you to send music and videos from your LG Smart TV from your mobile device and vise verse.

    The Avatar Book app is for the "lil'uns". It gives them the opportunity to live out their fantasies of being lead characters in classic animations while interacting with a variety of age appropriate music and literature, in a nutshell it is a fun educational app that helps children gain knowledge while having a great time, don't we all wish we had it that easy.

    This Smart TV also include social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter which, although highly debated, makes for better viewing and easy access.You can also connect to YouTube leanback or Netflick to view your favourite videos or visit News24 to keep abreast with the latest new.It also has  applications such as Viewster, Vudu, Google Maps, MBL and Hululplus just to mention a few.

    With such splendid power at the tip of your fingers you'll have no choice but to be the Napoleon of the TV room and  hog the remote, because you know what they say, "power corrupts but absolute power corrupts absolutely"

    By: Thendo Vhulahani
    Editor: Phenyo Malele
    References http://www.flatpanelshd.com/news.php?subaction=showfull&id=1307626869

    Google Glass- Glass Project

    A device so simple yet with so much of complex features,makes the use of a hands free device much more easier on a day to day basis. Google Glass allows you to access information just as useful as a smartphone e.g:
    • Camera
    • Voice and video recording
    • Access to maps
    • Quick search and find on the Web
                           

    This device accesses information by voice activation or just a simple touch as it wears around your eyes. Google has confirmed that Glass will eventually work with frames and lenses that match the wearer's prescription,so wearing Glass can be done on a day do day basis without the disruption of the wearer's sightIt is faster and much more easier to use as anyone would prefer using natural language voice command,rather than their hands when using an application or device.The release date should come round 2014.
                                          
    Glass is set to change the lives of teenagers and young adults,in a fun and sophisticated way.The use of devices has become a a complete bliss.

    Author: Thanusha Pillay

    References:
    1. www.guardian.co.uk › TechnologyGoogle Glass
    2. glass-apps.org/






                                                                  

    Google Glass

    The Google Glass project is basically a hands free device which performs the same functions as computer or smart phone. Glass performs various different tasks such as:

    • browsing the web
    • video recording
    • camera etc
    It also has various different applications built into it,therefore it is very functional to the user. In terms of mobility,it is light weight and easy to move around as it is exactly the same as a normal pair of glasses.
    Glass is truely an amazing innovation and is going to change the world.
                                 
                                          

                                                                      Author: Kade Pillay
    References:
    1. economictimes.indiatimes.com
    2. riversideinnovationcentre.co.uk
    3. theverge.com
    4. universalsportmags.com
    5. adweek.com

    Samsung Galaxy S4

    The new Samsung S4 smart phone is expected to enter markets with a bang and will be tight in competition with the iPhone 5. The Samsung S4 has new and exciting aspects for potential users to explore. With the best connectivity, video and camera ability and amazing features like the laser keyboard dock and its bending ability, it is sure to be one of the greatest gadgets that have ever been made. I will be covering the costs, accessories and compatibility.

    Amazing Accessories for the Samsung Galaxy S4:

    The Samsung Company unveiled a plethora of accessories that expand the functionality of the smart phone even further.
    • The covers including: hard-back covers, plastic covers, flip-over covers, together with the screen protectors will ensure safety of the S4.
    • Samsung’s Wireless Charging Pad, together with the external batteries, car chargers, charging stands and USB cables enables convenience for the device’s 2,600 mAh battery.
    • The S4 can also be accessorized by using a stylus as well as touch gloves.


    Compatibility of the S4:
    • The S4 includes a BCM2079x NCF controller, which makes it incompatible with TecTiles. However, Samsung is introducing TecTiles 2, which will be compatible.
    • 16 of the EA gaming apps are compatible with the S4.
    • The only thing AirView seems compatible with on the S4 is the video player.
    • The S4 is also compatible with SmartPause, a feature that tracks eye movements allowing you to scroll down a page by tilting the phone and pause a video by looking away.

    Costs of the Samsung S4:
    • The buying price of the S4 is R7, 099 excl. VAT. 
    • Vodacom offers the phone at a deal of R469 p/m on a Smart S plan.
    • Cell C packages range from R399 to R899 p/m.



    REFERENCES:
    • samsung s4/nine cool/accessories, http://tech2.in.com/features/accessories/nine-cool-accessories-for-the-samsung-galaxy-s4/827452. Last visited on 30 April 2013.
    • Full phone specifications/GSM Arena, http://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_i9500_galaxy_s4-5125.php. Last visited on 2 May 2013.
    • costs/launch date, http://mybroadband.co.za/news/smartphones/75441-samsung-galaxy-s4-official-launch-date-for-sa.html. Last visited 2 May 2013.


    Author: Caldene Burgers

    Samsung Galaxy S4

    Samsung Galaxy S4


    The new and improved Samsung Galaxy S4 is one of the most innovative and exciting devices ever to hit the shelves. The Samsung S4 promises to be one of the best smart phones to date, with new invigorating features, exciting and understandable apps. Live in a world of infinite possibilities with Samsung and its exciting new device.

    The amazing new features of the Samsung S4 include:
    • The incredibly wide full HD Super AMOLED screen, which has 441ppi for beautiful HD viewing quality. 
    • Capture those memorable moments with its 13 megapixel rear camera and its 2 megapixel front   camera.  
    • Amazing wireless charging abilities.
    • Powerful 1.9GHz quad-core processor.
    •  Android 4.2 code named Jelly Bean, which makes the camera experience much more appealing and provides a new novel way of typing.
    • You are able to move objects without touching the actual phone with Air Gesture.
    • Faster internet access with the 4G LTE.

    Some of The exciting apps include:

    • Social networking like twitter, Facebook, Instagram , Whatsapp, ChatOn etc
    • The S translator
    • Group play
    • Samsung Hubs
    • health
    • Flipboard
    • WatchOn


    The durability of the Samsung S4:
    The Samsung has a plastic metal plate which makes the durability increasingly advantageous. The phone also utilises Corning’s new Gorilla® Glass 3* making it an incredible durable travel companion for all of life’s amazing adventures.
    Although the S4 is slightly more water resistant than the S3 it is less likely to become your life companion due to its breakable ability when dropped on the floor and also the inability for you as a person to get a firm grip on the phone. SO be sure to get a cover for this amazing device.



    FOR MORE INFORMATION:

    REFERENCES:


                                    Author: Simone Masters