CES 2010 (1 Viewer)

[Andrew M]

Registration is now open at www.cesweb.org for the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas in January 2010. HTF Bloggers can register as press to attend for free.

Here's the criteria as posted:

What are valid types of credentials for editorial press and blogger registration?
One of the following:

• Copy of or an Internet link to a published industry-related article from the last three months with your name in the byline
• Copy of publication masthead listing you as an editorial contributor
• Link to an industry-related blog posting from the last three months with your name in the byline
  
  Please note: Online media must write for a website with more than 1,000 unique visits a month and a paid reporting staff that posts original tech industry-related news at least weekly.
  
  Bloggers must write for a blog that reflects current, tech industry-related news, with new posts created on a weekly basis or greater frequency and gets more than 500 unique visits a month.

NYC area HTFers might want to register just to attend the CES New York Press Preview featuring CES Unveiled@NY in November 2009. Additional CES concurrent events just for bloggers might be announced as the year progresses and I'll post that info as well.

Hot industry topics this year will be the further advancement of 3D TV, 3D DVD and 3D Blu-Ray-DVD, Cinemascope aspect ratio widescreen TVs, and larger screen OLED TVs. CES is so amorphous these days that you can spend hours just looking through the website at the products, topics, conferences, sessions. keynotes, TechZones, etc. that you can find at CES.

 

[Andrew M]

Latest CES Shuttle Bus Service has been posted: http://cesweb.org/hotelTravel/shuttle.asp

You can also print out the schedule and a map: http://cesweb.org/docs/2010_CES_Shuttle_Map_for_CESweb.pdf

Ever since CES has started to use the Venetian-Sands Expo for press events, I've been staying at either the Imperial Palace or Casino Royale near the Venetian and using the shuttles to get to the LVCC. Easy walking to events at Paris, Caesar's, the Riviera, the Mirage, the Bellagio or the Wynn. Last year I took only one taxi- to the Hard Rock and back for a DTS sushi dinner.

 

[Andrew M]

Toshiba Will Sell Blu-ray Player This Year Melissa J. Perenson, PC World

timestamp(1247996640000,'longDateTime')Jul 19, 2009 2:44 am

Exactly a year and five months after Toshiba brought an end to the high-definition disc format war, the Japanese consumer electronics company confirmed its plans to produce its own Blu-ray Disc player. Previously, rumors trickled in about Toshiba considering such a move; Japanese newspaper Yomiuri Shimbun this weekend reported that Toshiba will adopt the format it once battled against.

Guess I'll be attending the Toshiba press conference at CES and stopping by the booth, too.

 

[Andrew M]

SENSIO SIGNS A LICENSING AGREEMENT WITH HYUNDAI IT - SENSIO®3D TECHNOLOGY INTEGRATED INTO ITS 3D TELEVISIONS MONTREAL, Quebec, July 21, 2009 –[SIZE= 11pt]SENSIO Technologies Inc. (“SENSIO”) (TSX Venture Exchange Inc.: SIO), inventor of the SENSIO[/SIZE][SIZE= 11pt]®[/SIZE][SIZE= 11pt] 3D technology[/SIZE][SIZE= 11pt], announces that it has signed a licensing agreement with manufacturer [/SIZE][SIZE= 11pt]Hyundai IT Corporation [/SIZE][SIZE= 11pt](“Hyundai IT”) for integration of SENSIO’s technology into [/SIZE][SIZE= 11pt]Hyundai IT’s LCD HD 3D televisions, developed for the consumer electronics market. Consumers will be able to obtain televisions that integrate SENSIO[/SIZE][SIZE= 11pt]®[/SIZE][SIZE= 11pt] 3D decoding technology in the fall of 2009. Hyundai IT plans to market this television model in the American, European and Asian markets.

These sets should be on display on the show floor and at Sensio's suite, usually in the Riviera.[/SIZE]

 

[Andrew M]

Here's what CEA Research Director and Economost Shawn DuBravc predicts as the Top Trends for 2010 CES.

Each January, CES emerges as the platform for product launches and entirely new product categories. 2010 is shaping up to be no different. Here’s a quick shot from CEA Research Director and Economist Shawn DuBravac about what developments playing out at the 2010 CES might emerge as game changers in the years to come.

1. 2010 CES Marks the Year of the App. Apps came on in a very big way in 2009, but the momentum is just beginning. From Facebook to the iPhone, the app is emerging as a key venue for accessing content in an easy and intuitive way. 2009CES brought us one of the first looks at apps for the TV and we expect to see the app flood the show floor in 2010. Throughout 2009, many companies have worked to attract developers to their platforms we expect to see the fruit of these labors revealed at CES 2010. Apps will be everywhere at CES this year and only the discerning eye will be able to see the choice winners and game changers. Ultimately, this story is about control of content and information flow. Beyond Apps, look for developments in other areas (ie software) that will work to streamline managing the flow of content across devices.

2. iPhone Wonderland and Battle for the Palm. With a dedicated section of CES for the first-time ever, we expect to see major announcements coming from the iLounge corner of CES 2010. Companies across the globe, continue to look for ways to leverage the popularity and success of the iPhone. But at the same time, the Palm Pre — released at the 2009 CES to rave reviews — is finding its own success in the marketplace as are other mobile devices. Don’t expect the iLounge Pavilion to steal all of the thunder around CES 2010. There will be major announcements elsewhere within the mobile phone environment. We expect to see App store launches — building off the first trend listed above and trying to bring relevancy and increased usefulness to mobile platforms. We expect to see new portable products launches as well. We expect to see this play out on both the hardware and software side. Beyond the phone, look for other portable products. The 2009 show only gave a hint of what’s to come for mobile phones, netbooks, e-readers, and digital imaging.

3. Green is the New Black. The Green story will change in a major way at CES. To some degree this story has historically been altruistic — do what is right because it is right. But being kind to the environment has taken an important step forward and there are several catalysts that will propel the category forward at CES. Consumers want more from their devices when they are on the go — which means they need power that can keep up with both their increased needs as well as the huge jump in increased computer power today’s portable devices bring to the table. The government is getting behind this movement with their wallet which is shining new light on overall green trends. VCs — leery of a deteriorating economy — continue to invest their own dollar here as well. Green trends at the 2010 CES will step beyond just eco-friendly design and packaging. Green will be big at CES 2010 because it makes sense financially and is gaining traction within the marketplace. Look for unique and compelling use of LED, e-ink, etc. 4. Software will be Biggest Incognito Category at the 2010 CES. The launch of Windows 7 is opening to a crescendo of excitement. Early pre-orders are selling out across the globe. Will we see new hardware offerings trying to take advantage of Windows 7 capabilities? Certainly, we will see other OS emerge as major stories at CES — from the mobile environment to in-the-home applications.

 

[Andrew M]

Fujifilm unveils 3D digital camera

Tokyo (AFP) July 22, 2009

Japan's Fujifilm unveiled Wednesday a compact digital camera that can be used to shoot three-dimensional (3D) photos and movies that can be viewed without special glasses. The FinePix REAL 3D W1 uses a "groundbreaking" system comprising two lenses whose images are merged in a single 3D picture or movie, the company said. Users can view the images on the camera's rear display screen or a larger separate monitor. Fujifilm said it would also offer a special 3D photo printing service. "Viewed with just the naked eye, 3D images come alive with breathtaking reality and natural beauty," Fujifilm said in a statement. The gadget will go on sale in Japan early next month with a price tag of 60,000 yen (640 dollars), followed by overseas markets in late August.

More 3D technology to see at CES. Definitely worthwhile stopping by Fujifilm (and maybe Dr. Fuji Foot Massage (Booth: South 2 26038) too, if my tootsies need it during the show).

 

[Andrew M]

iLounge & CEA announce over 40 iLounge Pavilion exhibitors

In anticipation of the upcoming 2010 International Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, Nevada, iLounge and the Consumer Electronics Association are excited to announce the initial public list of over 40 vendors that will be exhibiting at the iLounge Pavilion, the first-ever unified iPod, iPhone, and Mac showcase at the world’s largest electronics trade show. This list already includes leaders in the worlds of premium in-car accessories, affordable iPod and iPhone attachments, and case designers, as well as names familiar across North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia, as well as a collection of smaller developers. Additional vendors will become public on the Exhibitor List in the lead-up to the event.

AAMP of America: This supplier of car integration solutions will be spotlighting hardware accessories for iPod and iPhone audio purposes, including its well-known brands Peripheral Electronics, iSimple Solutions, and Stinger.

Be-Ez: Bag, case, and film vendor Be-Ez produces products for the iPhone, iPod touch, and Apple’s notebook computers, including hip laptop bags.

Bluelounge: This developer of clean cable management and charging solutions will be showing iPod and iPhone cabling solutions, as well as desktop clutter reducers for laptop computers.

Brandra: Small developer Brandra is listed as having a product called “The Original Suction Clip;” its web site is presently not functional.

Branex Design: Responsible for the iTam Tam, a premium, modern-looking combination stool and iPod/iPhone docking station, Branex Design is expected to show this system—which includes its own 50W amplifier, speaker, and remote—as well as related Tam Tam products.

Breffo: Based in the U.K., Breffo is a new developer with a mysterious product under development.

Dexim: Already known for its batteries, chargers, and docks for iPods and iPhones, Dexim is the primary iPod and iPhone supplier to U.S.-based RichardSolo, and is working on FM transmitters, cases, and new App-friendly hardware accessories for iPhone OS 3.0.

Easy Hood: This China-based company produces cases and other accessories for iPhones and iPods, as well as cameras.

Eleven Engineering: Eleven is the maker of Cecille, a wireless audio transmitter technology that promises better than Bluetooth audio fidelity, no TDMA interference, and the ability to pair with multiple receivers scattered throughout homes, cars, and offices.

Etymotic Research: Well-known for its high-fidelity wired and wireless earphones, Etymotic Research will bring iPod- and iPhone-compatible listening and microphone solutions to the iLounge Pavilion.

Fruitshop: This vendor of iPod and iPhone cases is best known for its Bone Collection series of cases, as well as other multi-colored, multi-textured silicone rubber designs.

GelaSkins: Art sticker maker GelaSkins will be on hand to show off its iPod, iPhone, and laptop protectors, as well as matching screen wallpapers.

Griffin Technology: As a leading developer of accessories, apps, and software for iPods, iPhones, and Macs, Griffin Technology will unveil its latest hardware and software offerings for these and possibly other platforms.

Hearing Components: This maker of noteworthy Comply earphones and earphone tips will be on hand to show off iPod, iPhone, and Mac-ready headsets, as well as special foam tips that can be used with numerous third-party headsets.

Helium Digital: As a supplier of cases, earphones, and handsfree speakers for iPhones, Helium Digital now sells everything from wireless monaural and stereo headsets to noise-cancelling headphones and play-through protectors.

iLounge: Co-sponsor of the iLounge Pavilion, iLounge is a leading provider of information on Apple’s digital media products, including iPods, iPhones, and iTunes.

Incase Designs: With a particularly strong presence in Apple Stores, Incase is a major developer of cases for iPods, iPhones, and Macs, additionally releasing iPod chargers, iPhone battery packs, and other surprises on occasion.

Incipio Technologies: Now a leading developer of cases for all of Apple’s iPod and iPhone products, Incipio is often first or amongst first to market with new and creative designs for these devices.

iSkin: One of the oldest and most fashion-conscious case makers for iPods, Toronto-based iSkin has expanded its lineup to include iPhone cases, plus headphones, wireless headsets, and other accessories; it also sells laptop cases and keyboard protectors.

Ivyskin: This developer of iPhone and iPod cases specializes in products with touch-through glass, and also sells keyboard protectors and USB hubs for Macs.

Jaybird Gear: Headphone maker Jaybird Gear has been expanding its line of iPod and iPhone-compatible earphones over the past two years, and offers both wireless and wired solutions.

Just Mobile: Responsible for attractively designed metal stands for the iPod, iPhone, and MacBook, Just Mobile also supplies value-priced portable battery packs and desktop-ready aluminum mousepads.

Macally: With a lineup that includes everything from iPod speakers to iPhone headsets and cases to a wide collection of Mac- and PC-ready accessories—drive enclosures, web cams, keyboards and mice—Macally offers numerous add-ons, often at aggressive prices.

Microvision: Developer of the Show WX, Microvision specializes in pocket-sized, bright little pico projectors that promise “always in focus” output regardless of size—12” to 100”—or curved surfaces.

Music Skins: As a producer of art skins for iPods, iPhones, and MacBooks, Music Skins now offers a “create your own custom skins” feature to let you upload your own photographs or artwork to transform into stickers for your favorite device.

Novothink: Located in California, Novothink is focused on solar-based products for the iPod and iPhone.

Omicron: Founded in California in 2005, Omicron International makes a variety of audio systems, accessories, and LED lighting products.

Otterbox: Widely known for its waterproof cases, Colorado-based Otterbox continues to design and manufacture waterproof items, as well as cases and accessories for the iPod, iPhone, and a variety of other portable electronics.

Ozaki: Founded in 1993, Ozaki is a worldwide manufacturer and distributor of multimedia speakers and accessories, and now sells everything from iPod shuffle accessory adapters to animated stuffed animal speakers.

Power Support: Founded in 1994 and based in Japan, Power Support launched its U.S. subsidiary, Power Support (USA) ten years later, and continues to make high-quality accessories for the iPod, iPhone, and Mac markets.

Rain Design: Founded in San Francisco in 2003, Rain Design manufactures and designs products for the personal computer and digital media markets, specializing in Apple-oriented designs.

S&D Starking: Founded in 1996 and based in Hong Kong, S&D Starking is a manufacturer of multimedia accessories, specializing in the iPod market.

Scosche: Founded in 1980 and widely known for its car audio installation kits and accessories, Scosche Industries makes a wide range of protective, car, and in-home products for the iPod and iPhone.

Simplism: Based in Japan, Simplism is a maker of cases and electronic accessories for the iPod, iPhone, and home theater markets.

SKM: SKM Industries will be introducing its first iPod-related product at CES.

Toffee: Based in Australia, Toffee makes leather cases, sleeves, and bags for both iPhones and laptop computers.

Tru Protection: This California-based company specializes in various types of film protection for portable devices, including iPhones.

Tune Belt: Started as a developer of neoprene cases for portable radios and Walkmans, Tune Belt now offers a wide range of armband, belt, and other carriers for iPods, iPhones, and similar devices.

Tunewear: Based in Japan, Tunewear has been a supplier of cases and other accessories for Apple’s pocket products since 2003, and is well known for its clear rubber and fashion leather designs.

Vestalife: As the developer of Ladybug, Butterfly, and other fashionable audio accessories, Vestalife specializes in making speakers and other electronics for younger users with a sense of style.

Westone: Makers of custom ear plugs, hearing instruments, and hearing protection, Westone also makes several lines of in-ear monitors for musicians and consumers, including impressive in-canal earphones for iPod use.

Zenrin USA: A U.S.-based provider of value-added content for navigable map devices, Zenrin supplies data for smartphone and mobile GPS navigation, mapping software, highway and road planning, and more.

The iLounge Pavillion will be in: LVCC, South Hall 2

 

[Andrew M]

TOP EXECUTIVES FROM MICROSOFT AND INTEL TO KEYNOTE AT THE 2010 INTERNATIONAL CES

Microsoft's Steve Ballmer and Intel's Paul Otellini to Keynote World's Largest Consumer Technology Tradeshow

Arlington, Va., July 29, 2009 – The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA)® announced today that the top executives at Microsoft and Intel will deliver keynote addresses at the 2010 International CES®. The world's largest consumer technology tradeshow is scheduled for January 7-10, 2010, in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Steve Ballmer will kick off the 2010 International CES keynote lineup at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, January 6, in the Hilton Center. Ballmer joined Microsoft in 1980 after being the first business manager hired by Bill Gates and was named chief executive officer in 2000. With Microsoft's goal of delivering an integrated platform to enable a seamless experience for consumers across PCs, devices and services, Ballmer is focused on continuing Microsoft's leadership across the company's seven businesses. He is known for his strong passion for the technology industry and energetic leadership style.

Paul Otellini is president and chief executive officer of Intel Corporation and will speak at 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, January 7, in the Hilton Center. He became the company's fifth CEO in 2005, succeeding Craig R. Barrett. Otellini previously had served as Intel's president and chief operating officer, positions he held since 2002, the same year he was elected to Intel's board of directors. Since joining Intel in 1974, Otellini has managed several Intel businesses, including the company's PC and server microprocessor division and the global sales and marketing organization. Under Otellini's guidance, Intel has been accelerating the PC globally by delivering innovative, energy-efficient products. Otellini is now focused on continuing Intel growth by extending Intel Architecture into adjacent market segments of embedded, handhelds and consumer electronics and to continue building new businesses by tackling big problems.

Information on other 2010 International CES keynotes will be released in the next few months.

I usually watch the daytime keynotes from the Press Room where we can eat and kibbitz in comfort.

 

[Andrew M]

2010 INTERNATIONAL CES TO FEATURE LIVING IN DIGITAL TIMES CONFERENCE PROGRAMS AND TECHZONES

Living in Digital Times to Highlight Technology Innovations for All Ages

Arlington, Va., July 29, 2009 – The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA)® today unveiled “Living in Digital Times,” a new spotlight at the 2010 International CES® focused on technology's impact on consumer lifestyles, from tech-savvy youth to digital moms to seniors. Owned and produced by CEA, the 2010 International CES, the world's largest trade show for consumer technology, returns to Las Vegas, January 7-10, 2010.

“Consumers of all ages benefit from the technology innovations introduced each year at the International CES,” said Karen Chupka, senior vice president, events and conferences, CEA. “We're thrilled to bring Living in Digital Times to the 2010 CES, where attendees will experience the latest technology products that impact every consumer lifestyle – from children and college students to parents and senior citizens.”

“Our goal is to bring new voices to the dialogue about technology,” said Robin Raskin, president and founder of Living in Digital Times. “CES is the place where people at the epicenter of technology share their products and services. Taking a look at the industry through the lens of lifestyle lets us look at some of the hot trends: distance learning, mommy bloggers, Internet safety, new user interfaces, mobile kids, aging in place, digital health records and more.”

Living in Digital Times will be located in the North Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center. Returning to the International CES as part of Living in Digital Times will be the Kids@Play conference program and TechZone, which will explore the role technology plays in children's education, and the Silvers Summit conference program and TechZone, showcasing consumer technology aimed at keeping seniors healthy, entertained and connected.

New this year are three additional conferences and TechZones:

Digital Health Conference Program and TechZone – Technology is one of the best ways to remedy what ails the health care industry. Products and services can lower health costs while increasing the quality of the health experience. Digital Health will focus on the emerging market of digital health and wellness devices, related applications and services, and will address consumer and B to B spending on health-related products.

HigherEd Tech Conference Program and TechZone – e-learning, Wikipedia, mobile devices, netbooks and smartboards are just a few of the technologies that are changing the face of higher education. And college students are among the first to adopt new technologies and determine the next big trend. HigherEd Tech will bring academics and technologies together to examine what’s happening on the high tech campus.

Mommy Tech Conference Program and TechZone – Moms have often been called the CTO of the home. Advances in technology have helped moms juggle priorities, stay connected with their friends, families and other moms, archive family memories and enrich their home lives. Mommy Tech will focus on the latest technology trends aimed at the $90 million “mommy market.”

More new things to see at CES. It can really difficult to see everything you're interested in at CES. A lot of pre-planning is required to get the most out of the show. Once you're pre-registered as press/blogger you can expect to start getting invitations to booths, suites & press events. Very hard to schedule everything and CES is so large, it can be very hard to find everything.

 

[Andrew M]

Important Information for International Attendees

More than 20,000 international visitors will attend CES this year. Learn more information about the services we provide our international attendees, tips for obtaining a visa and information about our delegation program.

If you require a visa to enter the U.S.; register for the show, request your letter of invitation and make your appointment for a visa interview early. Wait times for a visa interview can be several weeks or more in many countries, especially during peak travel periods.

This was included in an CES Update email I received today. Last year I was waiting on line to enter a press event with a woman from India representing a website magazine. Turned out she had just started working there and was so new her business card didn't even have her office phone number. But, she explained that she was the only one working for the magazine who had a current visa so she ended up scoring the trip to CES. So, if you're a press/blogger planning to attend CES, make certain your international traveling papers are up to date. More info is here:

http://www.cesweb.org/international/default.asp?edm=uttm080509

 

[Andrew M]

The 2010 International CES Press Room is Going GREEN

By Allison Carney Fried

In an effort to reduce our environmental footprint and in response to media feedback, the CES press room will only house electronic exhibitor press kits for 2010. Exhibitors are welcome to bring in a one- page spec sheet that lists media contacts and the URL where their electronic press kit is housed online. USB drives and CDs are also welcome. Printed press materials greater than one page in length should be stored in the exhibitor’s booth.

Last year we strongly encouraged electronic kits, and exhibitors really got creative with their goods! Panasonic printed their press kit URL and media contact information on a 3×5 card that when planted would sprout marigolds and cosmos after the show!

Recent CES surveys show that 85 percent of media prefer online, USB or CD kits with a one-page spec sheet. It is important to make sure that the press kit is marked clearly with the company’s name and CES booth number for easy reference.

This is edited down from a CEA Digital Dialogue I received yesterday. Good news for press/bloggers. Now we don't have to cram our complementary CES press bags with printed press kits and perform triage on them in our hotel rooms before we leave, deciding which kits live on and which ones die a meaningless death in the hotel trash. USB drives (which can be used as a press kit, erased and recycled) and CDs are a lot easier to schlep home from Las Vegas.

 

[Andrew M]

2010 CES PUTS SPOTLIGHT ON DIGITAL IMAGING SHOWCASE

2010 CES to Include ATP, Kodak, Iomega, Tiffen, Wacom and Wynit

Arlington, Va., August 11, 2009 - The 2010 International CES® will feature top companies with the latest products in digital imaging hardware and software in its Digital Imaging Showcase.

“Digital imaging connects consumers and their memories across multiple product categories,” said Karen Chupka, senior vice president, events and conferences, CEA. “With consumers looking to improve the quality of their digital libraries, the Digital Imaging Showcase at this year’s CES will be bigger than ever before, as innovative companies exhibit their latest products.”

Digital imaging - and high quality digital cameras in particular - remain a central focus for consumers, as household penetration of digital cameras reaches nearly 80 percent and shipments of digital cameras featuring more than 10 megapixels are projected to increase by 237 percent in 2009. Shipments of digital cameras will generate $6 billion in sales in 2009, with more than 30.5 million units sold.

The Digital Imaging Showcase will feature more than 37,000 square feet of exhibit space, with more than 60 exhibitors in South Hall 3 of the Las Vegas Convention Center. This dedicated exhibit area will feature all aspects of the imaging product category, including cameras and capture devices, storage, software, printers, kiosks, bags and accessories.

Top imaging companies will be featured at the 2010 CES such as ATP, Kodak, Iomega, Tiffen, Wacom and Wynit. Other major imaging companies exhibiting at the 2010 CES include Canon, Casio, Fuji, JVC, Lowepro, Nikon, Olympus, Panasonic, Samsung and Sony.

This is edited down from a CEA email I received. This looks like a good showcase to visit if you want the latest info on digital cameras and accessories. Plus you can get some hands on time with the newest equipment, too. Each of the major manufacturers will have their own booths and I recommend scheduling a booth appointment in advance for some quality time with booth personnel.

 

[Andrew M]

The first press events were announced last week:

Wednesday, January 6

8:00 AM - 8:45 AM Casanova 501, The Venetian LG Electronics: LG Electronics Press Conference

9:00 AM - 9:00 AM Marco Polo 706, The Venetian Monster Cable Products Inc.: Monster Press Conference **INVITATION ONLY**

9:00 AM - 9:45 AM Sands 201, Sands/Venetian NETGEAR: NETGEAR Press Conference

10:00 AM - 10:45 AM Casanova 505, The Venetian Toshiba: Toshiba Press Conference

11:00 AM - 11:45 AM Titian 2204, The Venetian Audiovox: 2010 Audiovox Press Event

11:00 AM - 11:45 AM Sands 206, The Sands/Venetian Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc.: Pioneer Electronics(USA) Inc. Mobile Entertainment

12:00 PM - 12:45 PM Sands 102, The Sands/Venetian Sharp Electronics Corporation: Sharp Electronics Corporation Press Event **INVITATION ONLY**

1:00 PM - 1:45 PM Bellini 2105, The Venetian Casio: Casio Press Conference

2:00 PM - 2:45 PM Marco Polo 801, The Venetian Samsung: Samsung Press Conference

3:00 PM - 3:45 PM Marco Polo 705, The Venetian JVC: JVC 2010 Product Launch

4:30 PM - 5:15 PM LVCC, Booth #14200 Sony: Sony Press Conference **INVITATION ONLY**

Thursday, January 7

1:00 PM - 2:00 PM S227, The LVCC SanDisk: SanDisk Press Conference **INVITATION ONLY**

 

[Andrew M]

Experience 3D TechZone
LVCC, Central Hall

Sponsor(s): 3D@Home Consortium

The 3D experience makes content pop, and it’s coming to CES. The Experience 3D TechZone features next-gen innovators who make 3D a reality in the home, including content creators, service providers and TV manufacturers. See the future of TV at the Experience 3D TechZone. In partnership with 3D@Home Consortium.

Anyone who saw the Panasonic 3D demo on our Hollywood Meet knows what the majors can do in 3D. This is the TechZone where the smaller (and just as innovative) companies will show their stuff. I'll be spending a lot of time here.

 

[Andrew M]

2010 CES New York Press Preview Announced
November 10th Event Features CES Unveiled @ NY, Holiday Forecast and the Best of Innovations Honorees

2010 International CES --(BUSINESS WIRE)--Consumer Electronics Association (CEA):

WHAT:
Get a preview of the hottest holiday technology products and breaking news about speakers and special events at the 2010 International CES® at the popular pre-CES New York Press Preview. This CES press conference features the unveiling of the 2009 CEA holiday sales forecast, as well as a presentation of the CES Best of Innovations 2010 Award honorees.

In addition, CEA will host CES Unveiled @ NY, featuring exclusive exhibitor tabletop displays and product debuts, just in time for the holiday season.

WHEN:
3:15-4 p.m. - 2009 Holiday Sales Forecast, CEA Market Research, 5th Floor
4-5 p.m. - International CES Press Conference with Announcement of CES Innovations Award Winners, 5th Floor
5-8 p.m. - CES Unveiled @ NY Showcase and Networking Reception, 1st Floor

WHERE:
CES New York Press Preview featuring CES Unveiled @ NY Tuesday, November 10, 2009 Metropolitan Pavilion 125 W. 18th Street New York, New York

RSVP:
To RSVP, go to http://www.cesweb.org/nypressreg

Received this on Business Wire from CEA this morning. New York area HTF bloggers should definitely try to attend the NYC event. There's a CES Unveiled event in Las Vegas on Tuesday January 5th that I'll be attending.

 

[Andrew M]

CES money-saving tip: JetBlue discount

JetBlue is offering a 5% discount to CES attendees and exhibitors! The discount is valid on travel to Las Vegas on Jan. 4 to 7 and returning Jan. 10 to 13. Simply visit JetBlue's Web page and enter 2010CES in the promo code field. All flights in a reservation must include valid routes and travel dates to receive a discount. If only one direction of travel is valid, please book your valid flight as a one-way trip using the promotional code and the other segment as a one-way trip without the code.

Received this info in a CEA SmartBrief this morning. I use Virgin America to get from San Francisco to Las Vegas for CES but hopefully others reading this entry will find it useful.

 

[Andrew M]

eBooks TechZone Sells out for the 2010 International CES; Additional Space Added to Meet Customer Demand Entourage Systems, Freescale, Interead and Shortcovers to Display Latest eBook Technologies at 2010 CES

2010 International CES

ARLINGTON, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA)® today announced that space for the eBooks TechZone at the 2010 International CES®, dedicated to the latest digital and eBook technologies and services, has sold out since its official launch in June. Owned and produced by CEA, the 2010 International CES, the world’s largest tradeshow for consumer technology, returns to Las Vegas, January 7-10, 2010.

“The eBook category is experiencing astounding growth, with more than one million units expected to sell in the United States this year,” said Karen Chupka, senior vice president, events and conferences at CEA. “We have received overwhelming response from companies interested in exhibiting in the eBooks TechZone for the 2010 CES. In fact, the original space allocated for the TechZone has already sold out and we are adding additional floor space to accommodate our customers. This exciting new TechZone is sure to draw plenty of attention at the 2010 CES.”

Consumer demand for eBooks continues to increase significantly, as eBook sales are expected to reach $317 million in 2009, with $647 million in sales projected for 2010. Additionally, shipments of eBooks are expected to increase by more than 100 percent in 2009, with 1.19 million units expected to sell. The eBooks TechZone will feature more than 3,000 net square feet of exhibit space at the 2010 CES and will be housed in the Central Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center.

Companies participating in the eBooks TechZone include Ditto Book, Ectaco Inc., Entourage Systems, Freescale, HanWang, Interead, Liquavista, Marvell, Plastic Logic, Onyx International and Shortcovers.

This is edited down from a CEA press release I received this morning. Always interesting to see the development of a new technology on display at CES. In 30 years will eBooks still be with us or will they have gone the way of VCRs?

 

[Andrew M]

Sony Prepares to Enter the Third Dimension
September 4th, 2009

Many of Sony’s initiatives over the past few years have been only modestly successful. Clearly the company would really like a new product offering to hit a home run. To that end, Sony has apparently determined that the best path to reclaiming its’ reputation for world class product innovation, as well as to start making money, is to move - big time - into 3D.

During his keynote speech at the at IFA consumer electronics technology trade show in Berlin and at a related press conference, Howard Stringer, Sony’s Chief Executive Officer and Chairman, stated that stereoscopic 3D technologies are crucial for next generation entertainment. He went on to state that the company is planning a major push into the 3D electronics marketplace.

A memorable take away line from Stringer’s presentations was the "3D train is on the track - and we’re the ones to drive it home." A promotional video introducing Sony’s new 3D initiative is available on-line at URL: www.sony.net/SonyInfo/News/Press/200909/09-099E/index.html.

The company made several top level comments regarding its 3D intentions. We learned that Sony will continue to "accelerate its efforts across the Sony Group to create both attractive 3D hardware and content, and provide new forms of 3D enjoyment." In addition, that Sony expects to "leverage its wealth of technology and engineering resources spanning both professional and consumer markets to bring the optimum 3D viewing experience to the home, from 2010 and beyond."

Sounds good. Several other details became available regarding Sony’s intentions.

The first is that 3D compatible Bravia LCD TV products will be sold globally with availability targeted for the end of 2010. The 3D LCD TVs will reportedly have a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels per eye, incorporate frame sequential display and require the viewer to wear active shutter glasses.

In addition to TVs, Sony said it will also develop 3D compatibility into other devices, including Blu-ray Disc products. This makes Sony the first major TV manufacturer to announce a Blu-ray-based 3D system using LCD technology.

Earlier this year Panasonic Corp. also announced a shutter glass based 3D initiative. Since Sony and Panasonic are the two main driving forces within Blu-ray Disc Association, it seems likely that the BDA will designate shutter glasses as a standard for full-HD 3D video.

Sony also announced the eventual availability of 3D capable Vaio PCs and PlayStation3 systems. In addition, Sony may have already developed 3D games - but are holding off on an announcement pending an industry 3D standard.

Not mentioned in the press release, but evident in the promotional video is what would seem to be a 3D CyberShot digital camera.

Other than the 3D TV, delivery dates were not revealed for the other 3D product offerings. The company has not indicated pricing for any of the new 3D products.

Sony’s commitment to 3D has the potential to be an important factor in the complex and long playing process of bringing 3D technology into the mainstream of consumer electronics products.

This is edited down from a Display Daily email written by Art Berman that I received. Look for a lot of 3D at Sony at CES. There should be some eye popping 3D demos at Sony and Panasonic at CES. It's easy to impress your audience on a wall-size plasma set. But that's not real life home theater as most people know it. Keep your eye out for demos on plasmas, DLPs and LCDs that are sized according to what most people can actually afford.

 

[Andrew M]

Sorry for not posting for a while. A bad late summer cold and placing my San Francisco condo on the market kept me busy. I did receive email confirmation on September 18th of my press credentials: "The credentials you provided qualified you for our press badge. Your press badge allows entry to exhibits (during exhibit hours), keynotes, conference sessions and the press rooms, free of charge."

And here's some more info on discount airfares to CES:

"Money-Saving Tip: Continental Airlines Offers CES Attendees Travel Discount

We know the economy has impacted everybody's wallet. So in each issue of CES Up to the Minute, we'll give you at least one way to save money. This time around, here's our advice: Fly Continental. Continental Airlines is offering CES attendees and exhibitors discounts of 2-10% off published Zone fares.

The discount is valid on travel to Las Vegas January 4-7 and returning January 10-13. Call your travel professional or Continental MeetingWorks at 800-468-7022 for reservations. Refer to Z Code ZGBQ and Agreement Code DKG7TQ. Please note: There is a $20 fee for reservations made via MeetingWorks or any Continental Airlines ticketing facility.

To avoid the $20 fee and to save an additional 3 percent, book your own reservations at http://www.continental.com/. Choose your flight times and access your meeting discounts by inserting ZBGQDKG7TQ in the Offer Code box."

Other airlines with CES discounts are AirTran Airways, American Airlines, jetBlue Airways, and Midwest Airlines. More information can be found at www.cesweb.org/hotelTravel/airlines.asp

 

[Andrew M]

Hisense keynote demonstrates CES' strength as the top event for global companies

Zhou Houjian, chairman, Hisense, will deliver a keynote address at the 2010 International CES as part of the third annual Technology and Emerging Countries (TEC) Program, which focuses on technology's role in advancing economic development. "CES is the trade show where global companies do business, and Zhou Houjian is a key addition to the CES keynote lineup because of Hisense's stature in China and its growing presence in the worldwide electronics industry," said Gary Shapiro, president and CEO, CEA. "Global companies know that CES is the best venue for exhibiting and making deals, and we are pleased to welcome a major multinational company like Hisense to the CES keynote stage to unveil its innovative global vision." Houjian will join other confirmed CES keynote speakers including Microsoft's Steve Ballmer and Intel's Paul Otellini.

This was in a CEA Smartbrief on September 9th. Hisense manufactures white goods(major appliances), televisions, set-top boxes, digital TV broadcasting equipment, mobile phones, Linux OS smart phones, wireless modules, wireless PC cards and optical components for the telecommunications and data communications industries. It sells under five brand names and has over 40 subsidiaries.

One of the fascinating things about attending CES is just how international it is in scope from the exhibitors to attending press. Often there's only one or two people in some of the smaller booths who speak English with any degree of accuracy, Use your people skills and smile a lot and don't try to out drink anyone from Canada and you'll be okay.