Microsoft is releasing the Consumer Preview of Windows 8 today, a highly anticipated software release from the company that marks the introduction of a full touch interface for Windows. The software giant has attempted to bring touch functionality to Windows over a number of years, but Windows 8 goes a huge step further by introducing a separate environment for new applications, designed with touch and Metro style in mind, to the masses of Windows users.
We’re starting to get a clearer picture of what the 610 will look like now, as reports continue to drip out ahead of the official unveiling. The latest report, from BGR India, claims to confirm key specifications for the device, as well as its expected price point. Their ‘trusted sources’ claim that the new handset will include a 3.2” display (presumably an LCD rather than the AMOLED variety found in its more expensive siblings), along with a 3MP camera.
The Japan Broadcasting Corporation, or NHK, has developed a camera-carrying balloon capable of steady aerial shots that would previously have been done from a crane. The helium-filled balloon, which can rise to heights of 300 meters but would likely operate at 30 to 50 meters, is attached to a four-axis gimbal that keeps the camera steady even when the balloon moves. Unlike a crane, the balloon is relatively cheap to produce and doesn’t require a permit or large setup space. This means that it could be used to provide bird’s-eye views of events that cranes couldn’t reach, or new shots at things like sporting events.
Although the gimbal and camera can be remote-controlled to pan, tilt, or zoom, the balloon itself doesn’t look to be mobile. If its tether is cut, however, it’s apparently capable of bringing itself to a soft landing. The balloon is susceptible to strong winds, but not significantly more than some camera cranes — it can withstand anything up to 7 meters per second (around 16 miles per hour). You can probably also set any privacy fears to rest, as all you’d have to do would be look for the giant yellow dot in the sky.
Diving Dogs Photography by Seth Casteel. The diving dogs is an underwater photo series called “Ruff Water”
Remember how cool Palm Pilots were back in the day, and that weird Apple Tablet thing called the Newton? Well what would the iPhone’s operating system look like if it was designed back in 1986? We were getting in touch with our feminine side on Pinterest today and found the answer. Behold, iOS 0.0.1 straight from 1986. Looks great, doesn’t it?