Samsung Electronics Sells 2.6 Million LCD Televisions with LED Technology

Samsung LCD LED TV

Samsung Electronics announced it sold approximately 2.6 million units of LCD televisions which had LED or light-emitting-diode technology. That is far beyond its goal of selling about 2 million for 2009.

Samsung sells more liquid-crystal-display televisions than anyone else in the world, and is looking for its LED-based LCD TV sales to surge by almost four times in 2010 to 10 million units sold.

Assuming that happens, it would really position Samsung as the dominant provider of LCD TVs for probably years into the future.

What makes the LED TVs so popular is their extremely thin makeup, along with a much brighter screen, in contrast to the more traditional LCD TVs we're used to.

A secondary element involved in Samsung TVs is the much-hyped 3-D LED TVs, which a number of companies unveiled at the Consumer Electronics show last week, along with Samsung.

While it's being touted as a big deal, in reality there really isn't that much content available at this time to be a game changer, although several years from now that could change.

At this time the LCD TV technology which dominates the television landscape is based upon cold cathode fluorescent lamp, or CCFL, blacklight technology.

Eventually LED TV is expected to take over CCFL, and there seems to be no doubt that Samsung will be leading that charge.

Samsung LCD LED TV

Bing Grabs More Search Market Share

Internet Search Trends

Microsoft's (MSFT) Bing grabbed more search market share from Google, as its U.S. search share climbed to 9.3% in August. Also seeming to decline in search share at the expense of Bing is AOL, which fell from 31. percent search share in the U.S. to 3 percent. Google droped from 64.7 percent to 64.6 percent search market share.

Now the combination of Microsoft and Yahoo (YHOO) search share stands at 28.6 percent in the U.S., with expectations that it'll grow more, assuming it passes regulatory hurdles.

As far as monetizing those searchers, all major search engines have declined in generating click revenue, as together they dropped as a whole by 13.5 percent from August of 2008 in comparison to August 2009, while also falling from August from July to August 2009 by 0.6 percent.

Year-over-year, Google (GOOG) click revenue fell by 9.4 percent; Yahoo by 5.7 percent; and Microsoft by 27.2 percent.

Internet Search Trends

Tech Trends | AMD Multi-screen TV

Tech Trends

While this new multi-screen TV from AMD looks cool and everone has been talking about it, my first response was practical, and that was do we want multi-screens which interrupt the flow of the image by the connection points of the TV, like in the photo above. Why not just just use a single-screen TV for films, shows and playing games? I don't see what this adds other than a trophy used in attempts to enhance AMD's reputation. In other words, this may never be more than a marketing gimmick.

As far as the technology involved, it uses a new AMD Eyefinity DirectX 11 graphics card, which allows the graphics to show as one on the multiple screens.

This may be interesting for work and study uses, but as an entertainment device I think once people realize the limitations, it'll fizzle out. Tech is cool, but it still has to have uses consumers' demand. I don't see this being something that will inspire the masses, but will probably be a very expensive niche player, once some uses for it are discovered.

Tech Trends

Tech Trends | Apple's iPod Nano Will Continue to Dominate its Niche

Tech Trends

Apple's iPod Nano got a great boost today from the re-emergence of Steve Jobs to the stage, and the latest additions to its features which should help it retain a strong hold in the midmarket niche it now dominates, and probably extend its market share even more.

Some of the additional features include a pedometer, video camera, voice recorder, FM radio, new digital-album format and precut ringtones for $1.29.

The latest version, which will include 8 GB, will go for $149, while the newest 16 GB version will sell for $179, keeping in that nice range, which should cut into competitors' offerings.

While the price of the Shuffle was cut to $59 for its version with 2GB and $79 for the 4GB version, it probably isn't a enough to sway the minds of consumers who will probably continue to go with SanDisk's Sansa Clip+. That seems to be sending a signal from Apple that they're focusing on the iPod Nano as their chief entry in the mobile market. That's the same with the iPod touch, which has strong competition from the Zune HD, depending on what your priorities are.

Tech Trends

Trends | Personal Rapid Transport Vehicles

Tech Trends

Heathrow Airport has been the recipient of Personal Rapid Transport or PRT vehicles, which are essentially four-person battery-run taxis running on rails, which through a touchscreen system, a rider can direct which parking lot in the airport they want the taxi to take them.

Designed by Mark Lowson, who also was part of the design team for the Saturn Rocket used to launch the Apollo missions, shows you why it has such an interesting, futuristic look.

The initial number of PRTs will be 18, which will cost $41 million, and if as successful as hoped, will be expanded by the BBA with another $331 million which will allow passengers to embark to hotels located near Heathrow terminal.

At such high costs it's doubtful the pods can be used in anything other than a than a smaller, controlled environment. Still, the idea of zooming around in one of these little pods with a couple of friends is pretty exciting.

Tech Trends

OCC Builds Electric Motorcycle

Motorcycle Trends

Don't tell me Orange County Choppers have sold out by building this no-noise electric motorcycle for Siemens. Said it ain't so Paul Sr.

Picture driving down the street on a bunch of noiseless moving wheels. Yawn!

While you can see the quality of the bike design itself, as that's surety with Orange County Choppers, the idea of building it for Siemens is disgusting.

As far as the bike, it allegedly can travel 60 miles on a charge, while hitting speeds up to 100 mph. You have to charge the trinket in a 110-volt socket for five hours to be able to ride it. It includes a 27-hp electric motor.

Motorcycle Trends

Majority Twitter Users Over 25

Internet Trends

In what is consistent with social networking numbers but relatively unknown by the general public, the majority of users continue to be over the age of 25, even though the perception and media reports usually refer to it as young people's networks.

Twitter is not different, as Nielsen numbers show not only is Twitter not a young user network, but it isn't even close.

An amazing 84 percent of Twitter users are over the age of 25, with 20 percent of those over the age of 55. Only 16 percent of Twitter users account for the under 25 demographic.

This has been the pattern for social networks for some time. Early adopters skew younger, and once their prolific use brings it to the attention of the media, reports attract older users who become the majority rather quickly. That has also been the pattern with MySpace and Facebook.

Even with all the Twitter hype though, very few people follow others, whether they sign up to or not. And many don't do much with it once they have an account.

Internet Trends

Tech Trends | Wall Mounted Speakers

Tech Trends

These cool speakers look like they've come from the sea, and they would look great on any wall, although at this time they only come in pink or white.

Included in the speaker design are six speakers and two touch screens, which you can see toward the center.

You can play an MP3 or a CD with it.

The real question to me is how does it sound, as the design will either make you like how it looks immediately, and so make a buying decision based on the sound, which in the end, matters more than anything else.

Tech Trends

Tech Trends | Retro Nintendo Classics

Tech Trends

These licensed gadgets from past Nintendo classic games should be a hit among fans, who never seem to tire of some of the old, addictive games, which remain so after all these years.

Add a game being able to be played on a keychain device and you can see how easily it would be to go to it immediately in a moment of boredom and end up being a hour later when you find out that much time has passed.

The new keychain gadgets will include three classic Nintendo games in the beginning: Super Mario Brothers, Mario's Cement Factory and Donkey Kong Junior.

No matter the quality can't compare with current offerings, I know the addictive nature of the past games will provide hours of fun and frustration as we attempt to be our old scores as in times past.

Tech Trends

Tech Trends | Digital 'In Newspaper'

Tech Trends

While the idea of an e-newspaper is nothing new, the concept 'In Newspaper is interesting in giving a glimpse at what some are imagining that world to be, and I could say that while looking interesting, it's pretty underwhelming.

You hook up a thin screen device to an outlet which charges up the device so you can access the news in the morning. My first thought is: so what? It adds absolutely nothing to what we do now except to be able to read from a thin screen held in our hand in the house.

We can do that on a regular computer, laptop, or thin laptop now, and get all the news updated on a continuous basis as well.

This would be a possibility if it were offered on public transit of some sore where people could read it from a comfortable and relevant position, but other than that, I can't see this adding any value to the home or workplace.

Tech Trends

Takashi Murakami and Louis Vuitton Partner for Another Colorful Design

Toy Trends

Takashi Murakami has become a household name in Japan, as he has successfully partnered with Louis Vuitton to create a number of small collections of high-end products.

This time around the two top brands have created “Putipanda,” which is a highly colorful design over a large toy, along with a smaller charm for a mobile phone.

Only the affluent need apply here, as the expensive toys may even challenge the budget of many who are leery of spending too much during these difficult times.

But the opportunity to get these hot items will definitely spur some to go ahead and splurge, but I think it'll be more for themselves than the little ones that would love the look.

Toy Trends

Auto Trends | Metro Cell Vehicle

Auto Trends

I couldn't call this Metro Cell Vehicle an auto, but because it defies description at this time, we'll just use that for identification purposes.

This unique transportation device, offered as a 'human delivery system,' is designed specifically for the Los Angeles metro area, but could have potential in other regions as well.

At this time it's being called a PDD (pickup-drive-drop), and can be called upon by people and you can use it to get to where you want. When you're finished with that, you just get out and the Metro Cell Vehicle will return to a unique hub stack built for it.

Of course this is a Concept and is not certain to be used at this time, but it sure would give an interesting, futuristic look to those using them, and the LA area.

I wonder if it will include air conditioning? It looks like it would be extremely hot to drive in if it didn't.

Auto Trends

Auto Trends | Dyson Ball Car

Auto Trends

What's the latest design from Santosh Chawla? It's throwing a car on top of and around a Dyson Ball. You know, the one that we saw navigating vacuum cleaners on infomercials.

Theoretically it could travel on almost any type of terrain and conditions, and could turn at 360º on a dime. And if you accidently turn at 360º on a dime while driving? Adios amigo. That's the end.

While I like the design, and the color of this prototype is one of my favorites for cars, it's just too cutesy to me, and would be more fun to play with on land you owned than being a realistic or safe way to travel.

But doing those 360s on some land or wide open space would be a blast, although it's hard to know how expensive it would cost, and it only runs on hydrogen fuel.

Auto Trends

Retail Trends | Microsoft to Challenge Apple with Consumer Electronic Stores

Retail Trends

Microsoft strategy and store design plans were 'leaked' recently, and Microsoft confirms much of the leaks are true, but in reference to store design, they're still at the early stages of decision making.

As far as the strategy of placing a number of their consumer electronic outlets near or right next to Apple retail stores, Microsoft confirmed that is definitely part of their strategy, and they'll be rolling out some this year, and moving quicker in 2010.

One of the very cool design features of the stores, which many people have commented on if true, will make Apple stores look boring. Now wouldn't that be a change for Micrsoft.

The design talked about is a video wall which goes around the entire store, along with numerous other cool features that will make people want to hang out and shop.

Assuming Microsoft goes with a number of these features, they will have a great place to visit, and will seriously challenge Apple in consumer electronics retail competition.

Retail Trends

'Alice in Wonderland' Game Being Developed by Disney Interactive

Gaming Trends

Disney Interactive Studios announced they're developing a video game for a number of platforms based on the Alice in Wonderland film to be released in early 2010.

Platforms they're developing for include Nintendo NS, Wii and Windows. For mobile users you'll be able to play it on your iPhone of iPod Touch. So far Mac hasn't been one of the platforms mentioned as one the game can be played on.

The game will feature a number of traps and puzzles Alice will have to avoid or solve with the help of her friends: the Mad Hatter, Chesire Cat, Mad Hare and White Rabbit, who aid her in her battle against the Red Queen and Jabberwocky.

Gaming Trends

Norio Fujikawa Jetscooter Design

Design Trends

This is an interesting design from Norio Fujikawa which combines a retro and futuristic look for this jetscooter.

What's particularly exciting about this is the wing-like fins that reminds you of cars from the 60s.

Looking at it as a work or art is probably more realistic the concept ever becoming a reality, as it seems it would be back heavy, making it difficult to really take off without turning over.

But who knows if extra weight would be added up front to counter that and make it a reality. Pretty neat either way, with room to adapt and change it while keeping the basic look.

Design Trends

Trends Self-propelled Printer

Tech Trends

The Mini Giant, a newly developed inkless printer has been developed by designer Paula Adina Sumalan for the 'Futures' category of the Zero Boundaries Zink Product Design Competition, for which she won first price.

This nifty little printer has no need of ribbons or ink cartridges, rather it uses crystals which are heated onto a special paper.

All you have to do is place it on the top left corner of the ZINK paper and it self-propels itself to create the print.

You can fit the Mini Giant into the palm of your hand.

Tech Trends

Marotti’s Trike Motorcycle Car

Motorcycle Trends

From the front and three-quarters view, this three-wheel car, trike - or whatever you want to call it - from Marotti, has the look and feel of something from outer space or a former sci fi film. The side view of the vehicle leaves a lot to be desired, and wasn't though out too well in my opinion, but otherwise isn't too bad.

The inclusion of tail fins and rudders makes you think of the 60s, along with the sleed body design.

According to Poland-based Marrotti, it's "as dynamic as a motorcycle and, at the same time, as safe and easy to drive as a car." Maybe we could call it a carcycle, or something like that!

The 750cc V-four 100 horsepower motorcycle engine from Honda pushes the 970-pound car pretty good, and would be a lot of fun to try.

Now what is its use again?






Motorcycle Trends

Jedi Learning Toy

Toy Trends

This new Jedi trainer toy allows you to use the force to move a ping pong ball up a tube without anything but a wireless connection. How neat is that?

The new toy comes with a combination headset and tube with a wireless connection.

Supposedly through the headset you wear you can send out your brainwaves and move the ball up the tube by the force of your mind.

The Jedi Trainer will be released in the UK in August via play.com.

Toy Trends

Trends | Solar Pool Skimmer

Tech Trends

Here's a pretty cool solar pool skimmer tech gadget you use in your pool to keep all that surface stuff out of your way and keep it from interfering with your swimming experience.

It includes a couple of solar panels at the top where it soaks in the sun's rays and gets energized. Two paddlewheels then propel the little guy and off it goes cleaning your pool's surface. It also has wheels on its side panels which allows it to maneuver around.

A NiMH recharageable battery stores up the energy and run for 8 hours on a charge.

The skimmer also identifies when its batteries are getting low and will take it to a part of the pool which has sun through an internal microprocessor.

It also recognizes when there is no sun and will slow down in order to conserve energy; whether at night or on cloudy days.

The pool skimer measures 6 1/4" H x 20" W x 23" L.

Tech Trends