URC rolls out haptic feedback universal remote

The URC MX-5000 universal remote looks like a typical universal remote control. But this US$1,500 clicker is a rare gem packed with a haptic feedback touchscreen, Wi-Fi and radio frequency communication. Haptic? Think of it as making onscreen keys behave like real buttons with the familiar tactile feel and audible clicks, a feature available on some touchscreen mobile phones. There's no official word on the actual implementation and details on the MX-5000's full capabilities are pretty lean.

Even if you're willing to meet the ridiculously marked-up asking price, this is one remote you can't pick up in mega electronics stores. That's because the MX-5000 is an A/V professional-centric product for custom installations and requires complex programming via the control software. You'll probably have to sound out your local A/V installer to check the availability of this controller.

Via Ubergizmo

No black Wii for the US?

Quick follow-up to the story we did last week on the black Wii coming out in Japan on August 1. Apparently, Nintendo has no plans to bring it out Stateside, according to a post by Libe Goad over at AOL's GameDaily.

A Nintendo rep said there are "no plans to have other colors of Wii in the US."

Say it ain't so, Nintendo. A lot of us Yanks (and some Canucks) are jonesing for a black Wii. In fact, our very own John Falcone has been going around for months telling people he's been holding off on getting a Wii until a black version comes out. (It also wouldn't hurt if the thing added an HDMI connection).

Of course, Nintendo might be just playing it coy because it's worried people will stop buying the current white Wii if they know a new black one is coming. Or it might not be. But it seems like a no-brainer to release a black Wii in the US--and the rest of the world.

Via CNET.com

Toshiba to go Blu soon?

Toshiba's resistance towards adopting Blu-ray may be coming to an end, according to a report from Japanese daily Yomiuri online. The article claimed that the company may be manufacturing its own Blu-ray product(s) as early as end 2009. It has been more than a year since Toshiba shelved its own HD-DVD format after a protracted losing battle with the Sony-led Blu-ray camp. This came about after swift defects by major US studios and electronics stores to the latter in early 2008.

This is, of course, good news for consumers and the industry as a whole. After all, this can only help drive prices lower as a result of competition, which in turn will lead to increased consumer demand. According to the news, Toshiba is also considering venturing into the Blu-ray recorder business which is currently dominating the Japanese market with more sold than standalone players.

Via PC world

LG not eyeing larger OLED TVs until 2012

If you're following the fortunes of OLED, this little tidbit from LG CEO Kwon Young Soo that appeared on OLED-Display.net should be of interest.

"We plan to produce 32-inch OLED panels for TVs in 2012," he said, adding: "The commercial success of OLEDs hinges on how it shows its superiority compared to LCD technologies."
Read more »

The 2009 Onkyo A/V receivers are here

The 2009 Onkyo A/V receivers have finally arrived in Singapore. They lineup comprises entry-level to midrange models including the TX-SR307, TX-SR507, TX-SR577 and TX-SR607. The TX-SR577 and TX-SR607 are possibly the first in Asia to feature Dolby Pro Logic IIz technology. This audio-processing function adds a pair of front-height speakers that can be used to faithfully recreate the effects of falling rain, etc.
Read more »

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