Author - Jerry Paxton

Company of Heroes 2 UI First-Screenshot

CoH2_UI_Screenshot

Click Me to Make Big.

Relic Entertainment and THQ have released a screenshot showing off the in-game UI of their upcoming RTS, Company of Heroes 2.

From the official post at the game’s website:

One of the most important components of any Real-time Strategy game is the User Interface. Often overlooked, the UI makes all the difference in how you experience the game and execute your strategy. This is why we are happy to give you a first look at the new UI for Company of Heroes 2!

Designed to give the player a full view of the battlefield and quick unit control, all the information you need to command your army is presented in a clean, concise and straightforward manner, with many improvements being made over the original design from CoH1.

Checkout the full article for more information.

SteelSeries Launches New Keyboards at CES 2013

productpage_apex_hero

LAS VEGAS – CES 2013 – Jan. 7, 2013 – Kicking off the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, SteelSeries, the leading global manufacturer of gaming peripherals today, announced the Apex and Apex [RAW] Gaming Keyboards. Made up of beautiful form and carefully optimized functions, the Apex and Apex [RAW] feature unique enhancements to the keyboards layout from low-profile keys, specially designed raised macros rows for quick access, and multiple layers of customization in colors and intensity. Built to deliver the world’s fastest reaction time and key combinations, the Apex features SteelSeries ActiveZone – a unique combination of programmability with visual support to better navigate the keyboard to win.

“We’re introducing a range of new gaming functionality with the Apex keyboards, including the new SteelSeries ActiveZone which allows for easier and faster access to advanced customization and features than ever before, ” said Bruce Hawver, SteelSeries CEO. “The SteelSeries Apex and Apex [RAW] have been designed to enable users to react quickly, move strategically, and adapt how these keyboards perform for every game.”

Superior Design & Optimized Layout

The Apex and Apex [RAW] strategically combine an adjusted layout with key enhancements that bring fluidity to the way the user moves around the keyboard. These enhancements include:

  • Raised macro-keys along the top and left side, which provide faster and more precise macro-combinations.
  • The addition of two small tactile bumps on the W-key to provide a faster return to WASD.
  • Superior anti-ghosting that supports simultaneous key presses in 20 of the most used gaming keys on the Apex and Apex [RAW}.
  • An enlarged space bar and added directional keys that support features that improve comfort and reaction time.
  • A SteelSeries key that allows the user to easily adjust brightness and disable the Windows key with no software required.
  • Two swappable feet that allow the user to adjust the keyboard’s angle to what is most comfortable.

The Apex Keyboard – $99.99/€99.99 MSRP

The SteelSeries Apex Gaming Keyboard goes beyond just choosing from 16.8 million colors; it features SteelSeries ActiveZone illumination, a visual support tool that allows the user to independently customize colors – up to 8 levels of illumination intensity in each of its 5 zones – with up to 4 different customizable layers per zone. With the ability to program every key, including the 22 macro-keys along the top and left side of the keyboard and up to 4 layers per key, users of the Apex now have 504 more ways to win. The Apex also features independent media and volume keys that provide instant access to media control.

The Apex [RAW] Keyboard – $69.99/€69.99 MSRP

Defined as the “essentials” keyboard, the SteelSeries Apex [RAW] brings users advanced, but not complex technology in an optimized design at an aggressive price point. The Apex [RAW] features brilliant white illumination with 8 levels of intensity. Users can also program every key on the Apex [RAW], including its 17 raised macro-keys along the top and left side of the keyboard, and up to 2 layers per key, to a total of 250 programmable keys on the board.

SteelSeries Engine Technology

Supported by SteelSeries Engine, users have the technology support to easily customize, save, and perfect their gaming keyboard set-up. With advanced macro capabilities that are unique only to SteelSeries Engine, users have the ability to “Copy and Paste” macros optimized for entry in command lines for MMO games as well as to create key-press macros with programmable timings and delays.

Users can create an unlimited number of profiles and define original features for each. Apex users can define 4 layers of macros, while Apex [RAW] users can define 2 layers per profile, allowing for advanced configurations per game profile. Profiles can be defined so that they automatically open based on the game that is being played. In addition to supporting illumination and/or intensity settings per layer per profile, users can also record statistics via a keyboard heat map to analyze game sessions and to improve gameplay.

The SteelSeries Apex and Apex [RAW] Gaming Keyboards will be available to consumers in early Q2 2013. For more details about SteelSeries’ newest line of gaming keyboards and the new features, check out http://steelseries.com/apex and http://steelseries.com/apexraw. Be sure to follow SteelSeries onFacebook and Twitter for the latest in CES 2013 product news, contests, and promotions.

SpareOne Debuts Mobile Phone Powered by a Single AA Battery

so-main-460x460

Las Vegas – January 7, 2013 – SpareOne, the world’s only emergency mobile phone powered by a single AA battery, debuts SpareOnePlus at CES, featuring a series of enhancements to the original SpareOne – recognized as a 2013 Best of Innovations recipient in a new category – Tech for a Better World.

“SpareOne has become a game-changing preparedness device since its launch, gaining national notoriety for its innovation and ability to keep lines of communication open when power is completely unavailable or inaccessible,” said Alan Cymberknoh, SpareOne Project Director at XPAL Power. “SpareOnePlus is packed with additional safety features and communicates with users even more intuitively than before.”

Upgrades to the SpareOnePlus include a location-based service which identifies the exact location of the cell ID, accessible through a free smartphone app, as well as audible numeric feedback which reads the number dialed and incoming calls aloud. SpareOnePlus now comes in Flat Black and Matte Silver, both with a red battery screen, giving the product a premium look and feel.

 
SpareOne, designed to be an ultimate safety and communication device, provides up to 15 years of battery life when stored unused (off, with plastic tab inserted) or 10 hours of talk time when in use. Features include a TorchLight on top which provides 24 hours of continuous light; a dedicated 911 dial button to alert authorities, which works with or without a SIM card; ability to pre-set 9 speed dial numbers; and a new talk-through, re-sealable waterproof bag with a humidity-proof seal. The floatable bags operate in extreme temperatures of -22F to 140F and protect against water submersion for 30 minutes at a depth of 1 meter, also designed with room to accommodate a few small items such as credit cards, bandages, etc.
 
Both versions of SpareOne are designed to work independently of a cell phone carrier, with no monthly fee. Users simply insert a SIM card with credit to begin making calls at local rates. SpareOne is SIM unlocked, so it can accept SIM cards regardless of the GSM operator, and micro-SIM adapters are also available for iPhone users to insert their iOS SIM.

The SpareOnePlus will be available early 2013, and SpareOne is available now for $99.99 onwww.SpareOne.com. Two versions of the phone are currently available – one for the Americas and one for Europe/Asia/Africa/Oceania (based on GSM availability: spareone.com/gsm-map.php).

SpareOne and SpareOnePlus will be displayed at The Venetian Las Vegas Casino, Hotel & Resort, Suite # 28-111.

Recognized for design and innovation by Popular Mechanics, Entrepreneur Magazine, PC Magazine and many more, read about SpareOne’s awards at spareone.com/media.php#bawards. Read the press release announcing SpareOne’s recognition as Best of Innovations here:maxborgesagency.com/press/spareone_ces_innovations_2013_winner/.

To learn more about SpareOne visit www.SpareOne.com

PowerSkin Unveils Next Generation of Battery Cases at CES 2013

powerskin

Las Vegas – January 7, 2013 – XPAL Power, Inc., maker of the PowerSkin line of shock-absorbing, battery-boosting cases for smartphones, will preview its new line-up for 2013 at CES, showcasing a Pro Series of double-injection hard plastic/TPU-coated iPhone 5 battery cases in a variety of colors for the first time ever, a next generation slim design for iPhone 5 and Samsung Galaxy S III, along with the Hybrid Battery Charger, featuring suction cups and tip connectors compatible with Android and Apple iOS devices.
PowerSkin® Pro
The PowerSkin® Pro line of iPhone 5 battery cases will feature a double-injection, TPU bezel with a soft-touch, hard plastic shell available in five bright colors – white, black, titanium, red and pink. Packing 2000 mAh of power and LED indicator lights in front for a glance-and-go visual battery check, the PowerSkin® Pro line offers the brand’s slimmest case yet.

 
PowerSkin® Hybrid Battery Charger
The PowerSkin® Hybrid Battery Charger will feature small, flexible suction cups that adhere externally to mobile devices, connecting via a soft, flex tip to a micro-USB, Apple 30-pin or Apple Lightning connector, allowing users to recharge their device without having to remove their current case. Boasting 2000 mAh of power capacity, the PowerSkin® Hybrid Battery Chargers will extend power between 50 to 70 percent, depending on the mAh of the device being charged. They will be available in black, white, titanium, red and pink.
 
PowerSkin® Battery Case for iPhone 5
As the first SKU in PowerSkin’s® slimmest design ever, the iPhone 5 case will feature a new ultra-thin angular shape, fitting comfortably in the palm of the hand. The iPhone 5 Designer Series PowerSkin® will extend talk time up to 6 hours and Wi-Fi usage up to 8 hours with its 1500 mAh power capacity, featuring an on/off button to activate a charge or to turn the PowerSkin® off, and an LED battery level indicator.  PowerSkin will also unveil the Ultra Thin design for the Samsung Galaxy S III case, including 2 limited-edition colors.
The new PowerSkin® products will be rolled out to consumers beginning in 2013. To learn more about PowerSkin® products visit www.power-skin.com, and follow PowerSkin® onFacebook.com/PowerSkinCases, on Twitter @PowerSkinUSA and onPinterest.com/PowerSkinUSA.About PowerSkin®

PowerSkin’s® smooth silicone cases with built-in batteries provide up to twice the power for popular iOS, Android, Windows and RIM smartphones, featuring sleek, protective designs that fit your phone and fit your style. PowerSkin® is Powered by XPAL™, meaning it’s charged by patented battery technology that reflects the highest standards for safety, quality and performance. Designed to be your go-to, go-anywhere, go on-and-on power source, PowerSkin® has got you – and your phone – covered. For more information, visit www.power-skin.com.

About XPAL Power

XPAL Power, a subsidiary of TennRich International, is a California-based corporation with its sales and marketing team located in the United States. The TennRich design team is located in Taiwan, and the company-owned factory in Shenzhen, PRC is the first factory in China to focus on rechargeable lithium polymer batteries and is currently one of the largest manufacturers of portable power packs in Asia. The Powered by XPAL™ seal stands for quality, safety and efficiency – a guarantee that these traits are inside every product that authenticates through the XPAL verification service. XPAL Verified™ is an authentication process that underscores our commitment to quality, using complex algorithms to detect and transfer battery serial numbers to verify a product’s legitimacy – a safeguard customers can trust. For more information, please visitwww.XPALPower.com.

Sennheiser Announces Momentum Black Headphones

MOMENTUM_Black_3sm

Las Vegas, 7 January 2013 – Sennheiser (CES Booth 20500 – LVCC South Hall 1) re imagines its acclaimed MOMENTUM headphones with the launch of the new MOMENTUM Black. Featuring a sleek look, MOMENTUM black combines pure design and uncompromising performance with the signature blacks of this season’s fashion collections.

The MOMENTUM black is the beautiful new addition to Sennheiser’s Style Selection. Following close on the release of the successful MOMENTUM, MOMENTUM Black delivers a perfect fusion of style and substance; urban design that promises no compromise on sound.

Minimal black designs are dominating the latest collections from the leading fashion houses. The look of right now is dark and sophisticated; with elegant silhouettes that emphasise purity and subtly accentuate textures and fine materials. This is the world of the MOMENTUM Black, which marries an elegant headband slider of premium stainless steel with earpads and a headband worked from soft and supple leather of the finest quality. A pure design, reimagined with black leather and coolly contrasting subtle red stitching that’s very much of the moment.

Beneath its stylish exterior, the MOMENTUM Black headphones refuse to compromise on sound quality. Sennheiser has taken technologies from its high-end headphone range to ensure a clear sound with excellent detail.

“Combining form and function is key to the allure of the MOMENTUM. It’s a formula that has proved successful with critics and discerning music lovers alike and its now coming in a black version, with a new look that takes the premium sound experience to the world of fashion”, said Maurice Quarré, Director Product Lifecycle Management at Sennheiser Consumer Electronics.

People love them for how they look and also for how they feel: high-quality, predominantly natural materials; ensure these headphones offer the ultimate in comfort for hours of listening.  Other smart touches include the circumaural ear cups that insulate the listener from noisy urban environments, and an optional cable with a smart remote and microphone for taking and receiving calls and controlling the music on Apple devices. The MOMENTUM from Sennheiser is the perfect companion around town: Experience sound in style.

The MOMENTUM Black can be seen first at CES. It will be available through selected Sennheiser sales partners from January. The MOMENTUM in brown is already available.

The Sennheiser Group, with its headquarters in Wedemark near Hanover, Germany, is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of microphones, headphones and wireless transmission systems. The family-owned company, which was established in 1945, recorded sales of around €531 million in 2011. Sennheiser employs more than 2,100 people worldwide, and has manufacturing plants in Germany, Ireland and the USA. The company is represented worldwide by subsidiaries in France, Great Britain, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Denmark (Nordic), Russia, Hong Kong, India, Singapore, Japan, China, Canada, Mexico and the USA, as well as by long-term trading partners in many other countries. Also part of the Sennheiser Group are Georg Neumann GmbH, Berlin (studio microphones and monitor loudspeakers), and the joint venture Sennheiser Communications A/S (headsets for PCs, offices and call centres).

You can find all the latest information on Sennheiser by visiting www.sennheiser.com.

Wahoo Fitness Unveils KICKR Power Trainer

wahoo

Las Vegas, NV – January 7, 2013 – Wahoo Fitness, the leader in iPhone powered cycling, running and fitness, will demo the Wahoo Fitness KICKR Power Trainer at CES 2013. Named aCES 2013 BEST OF INNOVATIONS award winner in the Health & Fitness category, the KICKR Power Trainer is the world’s first iPhone powered bike trainer. Wahoo’s KICKR allows cyclist and triathletes to set resistance, accurately measure power and complete App based workouts, all from their iPhone. The KICKR Power Trainer is being demoed this week at CES 2013 South Hall S2 Booth #26525.

Using Bluetooth 4.0 and ANT+ technology, the KICKR Power Trainer connects to the iPhone, allowing full resistance control during your training session. While pedaling, users can increase or decrease resistance, structure interval workouts or even simulate real world bike courses all from their smart phone. Resistance adjustments are instant, making it easy to replicate everything from a flat or rolling hill course, to the coast down a hill after a hard climb. With a wheel off design and super flywheel, the iPhone connected bike trainer is engineered to produce an ultra-realistic road feel, equivalent to the inertia of an actual rider on the road. A direct power measurement at the hub provides consistent and lab accurate power readings for every grueling mile.

“We have created the ultimate indoor cycling experience and to be honored with the Best of Innovations award at this year’s CES is a credit to all the hard work in design and innovation from the Wahoo team,” says Chip Hawkins, CEO of Wahoo Fitness. “Cyclist and triathletes will be blown away by the feel of the KICKR. We spent a ton of time engineering the feel, fine tuning it for the most realistic ride we’ve ever experienced on an indoor bike trainer. With the wheel off design there is no need for calibration; the power is consistent and accurate every single time. The electronic resistance is driven by your iPhone or tablet during a ride, you can go from hammering up a 15% grade to coasting downhill, instantaneously”.

Wahoo Fitness has fully integrated the iPhone into all aspects of cycling fitness. With Wahoo’sBlue SC Speed & Cadence sensor for iPhone, the Blue HR Heart Rate Monitor for iPhone, theRFLKT Bike Computer for iPhone, Balance Smartphone Scale and the KICKR bike trainer, Wahoo users can now track and power their cycling with their iPhone at home, on the road, the trail and the trainer. Wahoo Fitness’ iPhone cycling system allows users to monitor all the vitals including power, speed, cadence, heart rate, pace, distance, location, course and more. 

Wahoo Fitness KICKR Power Trainer features include:
• Adjust resistance via iPhone for structured rides or simulate real world courses using top cycling Apps including TrainerRoad and Kinomap Trainer.
• Wheel off design allows direct power measurement at the hub, providing the most accurate and consistent power measurement throughout every mile
• In ride adjustments simulate across all intensities from coasting downhill to cranking up a 15% grade (600-2000 watt resistance)
• Ultra realistic road feel specifically engineered to simulate the inertia of an actual rider on the road
• Measure power (wattage), and speed all using your favorite iPhone cycling App or favorite ANT+bike computer
• ANT+ and Bluetooth 4.0 compatible
• Quiet – tested to be one of the quietest trainers on the market

To check out the KICKR and the rest of Wahoo’s 2013 health & fitness tech, visit CES 2013 South Hall S2 Booth #26525.

Mad Catz Announces New Range of Mobile Gaming Products

GameSmart-Family-MicroSite-Header

San Diego – January 7, 2013 – Mad Catz Interactive, Inc. (“Mad Catz”) (NYSE MKT: MCZ) announced today a new range of products featuring the Company’s new GameSmart™ technology. Initial products in the range include theR.A.T.M mobile gaming mouse, the F.R.E.Q.M headset, the M.O.U.S.9 wireless mouse, and the C.T.R.L.R wireless gamepad.

In addition to delivering leading edge gaming performance on PC, Mac and in some instances consoles, GameSmart products are designed to extend the core gaming experience to supporting smart devices. GameSmart offers mobile game developers and publishers standardization, ease of implementation and scalability when enabling controller and console-like accessory functionality in mobile games. GameSmart control products will function through the Bluetooth® Smart stack, will be game and hardware independent, and will feature simplified setup, longer battery life and universal compatibility.

The R.A.T.M is the first mouse to combine Bluetooth Smart technology and a gaming grade laser sensor, providing market leading battery life, universal compatibility and the performance expected from a R.A.T. gaming mouse. Delivering up to a one year battery life, the R.A.T.M is compatible with a multitude of devices from PC and Mac through to next generation TV’s and tablets. For devices that do not feature Bluetooth Smart mouse support, theR.A.T.M comes equipped with a nano dongle. For platforms running Windows® 8 with native Bluetooth Smart mouse support, the R.A.T.M can be connected directly. The R.A.T.M features an adjustable palm rest, 12 action buttons (10 of which are programmable), and a power efficient 6400DPI twin-eye laser sensor. The R.A.T.M uses an all new Windows® and Mac compatible drag-and-drop programming interface, allowing gamers to intuitively program commands with speed. In addition, the R.A.T.M is app-enabled, allowing for future configuration via a smart device app.

The F.R.E.Q.M is the first mobile headset in the F.R.E.Q. audio line, featuring rich stereo sound and a lightweight aluminum chassis which folds away for easy transport. The F.R.E.Q.M comes with two unique in-line cables, one for use with PC or Mac and the other for use with smart devices and some consoles; each providing the user with different functionality.

The M.O.U.S.9, with striking aesthetics based upon the Company’s award-winning R.A.T. gaming mouse, has been simplified for everyday use and features new Bluetooth® Smart technology and a laser sensor capable of tracking on virtually any surface, including glass. Delivering up to a one year battery life, the M.O.U.S.9 is compatible with a multitude of devices from PC and Mac through to next generation TV’s and tablets. For devices that do not have Bluetooth Smart mouse support, the M.O.U.S.comes equipped with a nano dongle. For platforms running Windows 8 with native Bluetooth Smart mouse support, the M.O.U.S.9 can be connected directly. The M.O.U.S.9features an adjustable palm rest and uses an all new Windows® and Mac compatible drag-and-drop programming interface, allowing gamers to intuitively program commands with speed, featuring profiles for many home and office applications such as Adobe® Creative Suite and Microsoft® Office.  The M.O.U.S.9 is app-enabled, allowing for future configuration via a smart device app.

The C.T.R.L.R is inspired by the Company’s critically acclaimed MLG Pro Circuit Controller and will bring console-like functionality to smart devices. Equipped with dual analog sticks, triggers, media controls, shoulder and action buttons, the C.T.R.L.R connects via Bluetooth Smart technology and brings a fully featured console-like experience to any compatible device. The C.T.R.L.R is app-enabled and can be configured via a smart device app.

“Our GameSmart initiative aims to enable core gaming on smart devices, similar to the console living room or PC gaming experience. We’re committed to adding smart device compatibility to our core gaming products wherever practical and to playing a pivotal role in bringing core gaming to the mobile platform,” said Darren Richardson, the President and Chief Executive Officer of Mad Catz Interactive, Inc. “We are excited about the new range and believe it fits perfectly with our long-term strategy of designing innovative products for passionate gamers.”

The R.A.T.MF.R.E.Q.MM.O.U.S.9, and C.T.R.L.R are each expected to be available in a range of distinctive colors in early 2013.

Additional information available at: www.madcatz.com/gamesmart

BenQ Unveils 1ms Response Time Monitor

BenQ_XL2420T_Front

LAS VEGAS — 2013 International CES — Jan. 7, 2013 — BenQ America Corp., an internationally renowned provider of digital lifestyle innovations, today announced the expansion of its RL Series of professional gaming monitors with the launch of the new RL2455HM. Built on the advanced technology of the RL2450HT — featured on the Major League Gaming (MLG) 2012 championship circuit — the RL2455HM has been enhanced thanks to feedback directly from the gaming community. Gamers now get a blazing-fast 1-ms GTG response time, 2-watt stereo speakers, and dual HDMI® ports for the ultimate in connectivity and control. The monitor also comes packed with advanced custom settings, such as BenQ’s Black eQualizer, Display Mode, and Smart Scaling to give players an edge over their opponents. 

“As the official MLG gaming monitor sponsor, players relied on our RL2450HT to deliver unprecedented levels of accuracy and control in a number of tournaments across the U.S.,” said Bob Wudeck, Director of Retail and e-Commerce at BenQ America Corp. “With the RL2455HM, we’ve taken all the advanced technologies of the RL2450HT, incorporated feedback from MLG pros, and created a powerful gaming monitor. Now home gamers can get the same experience as the pros, enabling an entirely new level of player performance.”

Designed specifically for console gaming, users get the ultimate experience for fast-paced first-person shooter (FPS) games such as the new Halo® 4 and Call of Duty®: Black Ops 2, and popular fighting games like Mortal Kombat™ with an ultra-low input lag that renders action without ghosting or latency from mouse motion. The monitor’s dual HDMI ports provide full HD connectivity with PCs, cameras, Blu-ray™ players, and more, allowing users to enjoy their digital A/V entertainment effortlessly. The RL2455HM also features a 60Hz refresh rate tuned to match console video output for seamless connectivity, a 24-inch widescreen (16:9) full HD LED screen, LED backlighting for great color and low power consumption, and a 12 million to 1 contrast ratio for the best in picture quality.

To give players a competitive edge, the RL2455HM features BenQ’s Black eQualizer to enable total visibility by allowing gamers to adjust the screen brightness without over-exposing white levels — revealing critical combat details with improved visibility in darkened areas. To accommodate individual viewing preferences, a Display Mode allows gamers to switch between seven monitor screen sizes while the Smart Scaling feature gives players the ability to scale the screen on-the-fly to virtually any custom size — ranging from a 24-inch 1080p display to a traditional 17-inch 4:3 format — without impacting controller sensitivity. The monitor provides custom settings for color enhancement, and features 2-watt internal stereo speakers.

The new RL2455HM gaming monitor will be available in March 2013 at an MSRP of $229. Information on the full line of BenQ gaming monitors is available at gaming.benq.com

PowerA Announces Console-Style MOGA Pro Controller for Mobile Gaming System

power-a

Woodinville, WA. – January 7, 2013 – PowerA™ unveils a new addition to the MOGA™ Mobile Gaming System at this year’s Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, January 8-11 — the console-style MOGA Pro Controller. MOGA Pro is a full-featured mobile game controller that transforms your Android into a mobile gaming system and brings a familiarity console gamers will appreciate.

Features of the MOGA Pro include a full-sized console-style grips, precision dual analog sticks, 4 action buttons, a classic directional pad, two shoulder buttons, two shoulder triggers, rechargeable batteries, USB charging cord and a tablet stand. Additionally, MOGA Pro comes with the full support of the MOGA Mobile Gaming System, including wireless Bluetooth synching with Android phones and tablets, the MOGA arm that secures phones up to 3.2 inches wide and the MOGA Pivot App.

“The response to our MOGA pocket-sized controller from Android gamers has been fantastic, and we’re now excited to give mobile gamers true, console-style control with MOGA Pro,” said Eric Bensussen, President of PowerA. “Now more than ever, mobile gamers will feel at home with a traditional controller while playing the huge variety of games available on the MOGA Mobile Gaming System.”

MOGA Pro will be available in Spring 2013 (price TBD).