Category Archives: Sci-Tech

1938 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B Lungo Berlinetta Wins Best Of Chantilly Show

The first two Chantilly Arts & Elegance Richard Mille, which enjoyed ever-increasing success, placed the event among the benchmark international Concours d’Elégance, and the third show consolidated the same trend. It was organized on Sunday 4th September and confirmed its status as the elegant rendezvous of the early autumn attracting some 13,500 visitors to the Chantilly domain, a stable figure compared to 2015. The number would certainly have been higher if the weather – cloudy skies and light rain in the morning – had been as clement as in previous years.

Concours de EleganceThere were eight concept cars in the running for the Concours d’Elégance entered by Aston Martin, BMW, Bugatti, DS Automobiles, Lexus, McLaren, Mercedes-Benz and Rolls-Royce, an increase in the number of car manufacturers associated this year with six Fashion Houses: Balmain, Eymeric François, Giorgio Armani, Jean-Paul Gaultier, Jorgen Simonsen and Timothy Everest. Four prizes were awarded for the Concours d’Elégance. The Best of Show award went to DS E-TENSE combined with a creation by Eymeric François. The ‘Prix Public’ crowned the Mercedes-Maybach 6 Vision associated with a dress created by Jean-Paul Gaultier. The prize for the motor car and fashion combination for the most beautiful ensemble went to the 570GT by McLaren Special Operations with a model also dressed by Jean-Paul Gaultier. And a special prize was awarded to the new ‘atelier’ motorbike by Zagato, the work of the master coachbuilder from Milan for the Italian manufacturer MV Augusta, which was given its world premier at Chantilly.

The Concours d’Etat attracted around one hundred exceptional cars from all over the world divided into 21 classes. The jury awarded the Best of Show to the 1938 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B Lungo Berlinetta with coachwork by Touring belonging to American collector, John Shirley, entered in the class Pre-war beginnings of aerodynamics – Closed road-going cars.

Photo: Stephanie Bezard
Photo: Stephanie Bezard

Jean Todt, the president of the FIA (Fédération Interationale de l’Automobile) also awarded several prizes including the one for the class devoted to him in homage to Fifty years of an exceptional career. In it were several cars which he had guided to victory as a co-driver as well as competitions manager at Peugeot and then Ferrari. So he was delighted to award the prize to the Peugeot 504 Rally Group 4 and to Jean Guichet, his driver at the time: they won the 1979 Argentinean rally in this car.

Forty clubs made the trip to Chantilly bringing 800 cars that were on show in the domain. They were an integral part of the event and made a large contribution to the success of the big garden party to which the public was invited.

Overall, the fans of motor cars, all generations combined, as well as families were attracted by the programing of the third staging of Chantilly Arts & Elegance Richard Mille, which celebrated the art de vivre and know-how à la française with several workshops and activities in the Chantilly domain.

Concours deEtat3 F1Car

The Chantilly Arts & Elegance Richard Mille, awarded the prize for the Motoring Event of the Year by British magazine Octane in 2014 and 2015 and sponsored by the Ministry of Culture and Communications in 2014 and 2015, has definitely found its place among the worldwide exceptional rendezvous devoted to the motor car, especially as it has revived con brio the great tradition of the Concours d’Elégance of the 1920s of which France was the cradle.

Patrick Peter (Organizer): “We brought to the third event all the experience we acquired in the two previous ones, as well as some innovations starting with the Supercar Rally on Saturday morning organized in the Chantilly region in which some twenty cars, hardly ever seen on the road, attracted a large crowd of spectators along the route. It’s an important link that we want to establish and develop with manufacturers of exceptional cars, which I hope to see more of at our event in 2017. Thanks to the awards given to the first two, our concours is now acknowledged as one of the best and most beautiful in the world. This is an important factor in the eyes of the manufacturers. We also have to attract a bigger crowd to reach a figure of 20 000 or 25 000 spectators in the next few years. It took several Le Mans Classics to achieve this number. Thus, I feel confident about the future of Chantilly Arts & Elegance Richard Mille.”

Supplemental- John Malkovich takes part in the celebrations.

 

 

Italian Design Studio HABITS & Japanese Innovator QUANTUM Form Partnership

Starting last month Habits Studio and QUANTUM formalized a new partnership that signaled an exciting collaboration between the Italian design studio and the Japanese innovation studio/accelerator.

Kizuki Habits Moon Lighting

With shared aspirations and values, the two companies plan to work closely to develop Internet of Things (IoT) products that breathe new life into everyday experiences. The first product created by the partnership was unveiled at the Digital Habits booth at the Salone del Mobile Milano 2016, held in Milan, Italy in April. Inspired by moon-watching, the teams introduced a unique interior lighting display, ‘Another Moon’, that showcases the delicate beauty of waxing and waning of the moon in real time.

Being enhanced through their collaboration, both companies are committed to developing future products and services that have appeal for the wider global marketplace. The partnership opens up new opportunities for both companies to incorporate global design perspectives into the earliest stages of product development.

Another Moon

In addition to this, QUANTUM and Habits Studio plan to leverage their partnership across a wide range of projects undertaken in conjunction with QUANTUM’s numerous partner companies.
HABITS Studio provides seamless experiences for users looking to adopt innovations and new technologies. The team includes product designers, mechanical and electronic engineers, visual and interaction designers, who together, bring their visions to life by making interactive prototypes as proof of concepts. Habits Studio has also an internal innovation platform, called ‘Digital Habits’.

QUANTUM was launched in 2014 as a division within TBWA\HAKUHODO to help foster innovative growth and exploration. It went on to establish its own brand called QM in 2015. The collaboration with Habits Studio started between QM and Digital Habits.
“We have a special link with Japan. We started working in the country in 2000 when we were still students. Now we feel somehow integrated with the habits and creativity of the Japanese people. Our design approach appears to be especially effective for Japanese advanced industries. The partnership with QUANTUM ideally fits this opportunity and the capabilities of both companies express together a whole creative heritage.” Innocenzo Rifino, Founder, Habits Studio

“Our work style at Ku-Mu (QM) is always to collaborate with partners flexibly depending on the products and services we produce. Through the project with Habits Studio, we realized that partnering with global design firms would make us enrich the products we develop with a broader perspective, especially at a time when both businesses and markets are becoming more global. Habits has lots of experiences working with global companies, including some in Japan, and we are very excited to continue our collaboration on more projects based on this partnership.” Futaba Maehara, General Manager, QUANTUM Makers, QUANTUM

 

Digital Music for Digital Habits! Click me.
Digital Music for Digital Habits! Click me.

 

Portable LED Bluetooth Projector Is Game Changer- Has Short Throw Lens

BenQ America Corp., the No.1 DLP® projector brand worldwide, today introduced the Colorific™ i500, a completely new way to enjoy immersive entertainment in small spaces. A compact device that combines wireless streaming, short-throw LED projection and rich integrated audio, BenQ’s i500 instantly delivers big-screen entertainment designed for today’s modern, tech-friendly lifestyles. With access to the most popular apps, the i500 opens unlimited possibilities for thousands of movies, shows, apps, games and even live broadcast — all without cables, set-top boxes or streaming dongles.

Cute as a button right? It's only about 20cm x 9cm or 8" x 3"
Cute as a button right? It’s only about 20cm x 9cm or 8″ x 3″

“The i500 smart projector is an entertainment game-changer,” said J.Y. Hu, vice president at BenQ America Corp. “At just 3.3 pounds and 3 inches tall just about the size of today’s tablets, the i500 is a powerful and versatile device for even the tightest spaces. Simply turn on the i500 and you’re ready to stream videos and music wirelessly for the ultimate big-screen experience anywhere.”

Thanks to its short-throw lens, the i500 projects images up to 80 inches from as close as 3 feet from the wall or screen, enabling supersized movies, shows, apps and games in WXGA (1280 x 800) native resolution. Supporting a variety of streaming content, the i500’s Colorific technology features a long-life LED light source rated for 20,000 hours without lamp replacement and is capable of projecting high-definition videos with supreme clarity and sharpness. Its vertical keystone correction means the projector can be placed at an indirect angle without any distortion — perfect for placement on a coffee table. With its contemporary gold finish, it blends in seamlessly with existing décor.

On the other side of the dual-sided device users will find a pair of 5W fine-mesh-covered chambered speakers specially tuned to produce clear voices and rich sound quality without external audio connections. When the i500 is not projecting, it can double as a powerful, portable Bluetooth® speaker system.

The i500 comes out-of-box-ready and maintains its flawless performance with the latest software and streaming apps via over-the-air live updates to provide years of unlimited hassle-free entertainment. It is preloaded with popular streaming services and apps such as YouTube, Spotify, Vimeo, Netflix, Hulu and many others. Also, with available game pad and controllers, the i500 unleashes a universe of heart-pounding games including action/adventure, strategy, role-playing and even first-person shooter games.

The i500 does all of this via wireless LAN with no other connections required, and it can play video or music content from a USB stick or display Excel, Word, or PowerPoint documents without a PC. For even more convenience and versatility, the projector offers a selection of the latest inputs, including HDMI x 1, USB 2.0 x1, USB 3.0 x 1, audio I/O as well as a mic in.

The BenQ i500 is now shipping in North America at a retail price of U.S. $749.

Supplemental: Did we mention this beauty is also 3-D compatible?

 

Limelens Smartphone Lenses Take on the Traditional DSLR Camera

 

Due to rapid advances in technology, the quality of smartphone cameras is now on a par, if not better, than some point-and-shoot cameras and entry-level DSLRs.  With the increasing demand for smartphone accessories to maximize users’ photographic potential, Limelens offers superior quality smartphone  lenses at a price within reach of the masses. Limelens lenses capture intricate detail that a smartphone camera could not achieve on its own.

Limelens product range includes The Thinker, a dual macro/wide lens and The Captain, a 190 degree fisheye lens, with more smartphone camera accessories to follow. The lenses boast incredible framing capabilities, removing the limitations of the smartphone camera to produce stunning photographs with a greater choice of photo angles, framing and composition.

Available at www.limelens.com for $99 USD, the Limelens introductory Set includes both lenses as well the Limeclip attachment that fits over 40 devices including leading smartphones and tablet brands.

(See compatibility here)  Limelens is taking advantage of the exponential growth of smartphone users and their insatiable desire to share their pictures on social media platforms.

Faye Jones, the Communications Director of Limelens says “While purists may argue about the limitations of smartphone camera capabilities, stand-alone cameras cannot compete with the portability of the smartphone and the public’s desire to share their photos instantly.  Online photo sharing has become a way to express identity, rather than compete”.  Jones says

“Limelens has recognized that people are choosing smartphones over conventional cameras and we have responded to this trend with the introduction of Limelens, a range of sleek, intuitively designed smartphone lenses that are compatible with major smartphone brands”.

The quality of smartphone camera images, and the features they offer, means that less people are spending money on regular cameras. According to data from Japan’s Camera and Imaging Products Association, camera sales have been steadily declining. In 2010 sales were at a high of 120 Million units but sales have reduced to 30 Million in 2015.  For the Silo, Dawn Ryden.

  • Limelens offers a versatile attachment compatible with 40+ devices whilst ensuring the lens is stable and is easily attached and removed.
  • Limelens offers users the ability to take photographs with wider angles, in order to capture all elements of their photograph.
  • Limelens offers users the ability to capture incredible details of their subject, of which a smartphone camera alone could never accomplish.
  • Limelens provides smartphone photographers with a sense of community, encouragement and inspiration for their projects, no matter their distance, experience level or ability.

About Limelens:

Limelens was founded by UCT (University of Cape Town) student and entrepreneur Tyler Bodmann and has been in development since August 2014. The Limelens team includes Joel Bronner, Faye Jones, James Badenhorst and Michael Dickens. Limelens is driven to create products with the intention to intrigue and enable its ever-evolving photographic community to see, capture and create differently. The Limelens philosophy implores a vision of adventure and discovery through this new creative medium to accumulate to a movement so aptly called The Limelife. Launched in the Spring of 2016, Limelens smartphone accessories offer users the ability to take photos with wider angle and incredible detail while maintaining image quality.  Compatible with over 40 smartphone and tablet brands, Limelens is the most versatile lens attachment available to smartphone camera users.


	

3rd Concours d’Elégance Elite Concept Car Event

Peter Auto is delighted to announce that the Concours Chantilly Arts & Elegance Richard Mille, which will be held on 4th September in the Chantilly Domain for the third time, is welcoming two new partners: BMW and ACJ (Airbus Corporate Jets).

Last year's Chantilly.
Last year’s Chantilly.

BMW was present at the 2015 event as entrant in the Concours d’Elégance reserved for concept cars and won the 1st prize with the 3.0 CSL Homage R. In 2016, the year which marks the Bavarian make’s centenary, BMW has joined the Chantilly Arts & Elegance Richard Mille in the context of a wider partnership that will be announced at a later date.

ACJ provides its clients with the most modern business jets in the world based on the full range of planes made by Airbus, leader in the field of aeronautics, thanks to its unique expertise, innovative technology and bespoke customer service. A fully personalised interior can be installed in these very spacious VIP planes including, for example, a lounge, an office, a bedroom and a bathroom. By combining interiors with unique living spaces and a range of action that enables its clients to cover the whole world, ACJ facilitates their life style. With ACJ Chantilly Arts & Elegance welcomes a partner whose values of excellence, innovation and luxury dovetail perfectly with those highlighted by the event.

Last year's winner- the BMW CSL R concept car. What a beauty!
Last year’s winner- the BMW CSL          concept car. What a beauty!

BMW and ACJ join a list of prestigious partners who have renewed their confidence in Peter Auto in 2016 for the Chantilly Arts & Elegance Richard Mille: DS Automobiles, Le Point, Bonhams, Relais & Châteaux, Charles Heidsieck, Radio Classic, the IDEC Group, etc.

The first two Chantilly Arts & Elegance Richard Mille were an instant success with the public, manufacturers, collectors and partners. They were also rewarded in Great Britain by the prize for the Motor Car Event of the Year in 2014 and 2015 at the International Historic Motoring Awards. In 2015 the event received the backing of the French Ministry of Culture and Communication, which has renewed its support in 2016.

The 3rd Chantilly Arts & Elegance Richard Mille follows in the same vein as the previous ones by continuing with the Concours Automobile allied with a wide range of activities that include the French Art of Living, Fine Arts, Arts of the Table, Fashion, Music, Watch making, etc. with the partnership of prestigious houses and brands. Thus, all the ingredients are combined to make it a rendezvous that’s unique in its field in an exceptional setting only a few kilometres from Paris. The riches of the Chantilly Domain and the eponymous princely town give Chantilly Arts & Elegance Richard Mille the quintessence of art and elegance, which all the visitor can enjoy at this convivial, family event.

Click me! Future ready art music for future ready Super Cars.

Supercars At London Motor Show Include Rolls Royce Dawn

London’s famous Motor Show is back! Thanks to our friends at selectcarleasing.co.uk for the nifty infographic.

London Motor Show 2016 Infographic

9 Things to Know about Wearable Tech in Health and Fitness

Here’s a fun wearable Infographic from our friends at igotcrazy.com. Do you agree with their projections of use?

•    By 2019, more than 33% of U.S. adult population is expected to be using the wearable tech?
•     According to a survey wearable technologies such as fitness trackers, smart watches and GPS tracking devices are expected to be the No. 1 fitness trend in 2016.
•    Wearable devices could possibly be a way for companies to better understand their team.

Wearable Tech In Health And Fitness Infographic

Canadian Technology Turning Wrists Into Playgrounds With Smartwatch

Canada are at the forefront of the technology scene – investing in areas such as quantum computing, space travel, environmental issues, medicine and natural sciences – and they are certainly not letting themselves get left behind when it comes to everyday applications either.

One of the biggest changes to technology over the past half decade has been the emergence of technology on smaller and smaller hardware items – from PCs to laptops, onto tablets and then onto our smartphones and it appears that the latest step has finally arrived. Watch-based technology is now readily-available, with so-called ‘smart-watches’ the most recent must-have items.

Montreal-based company, Neptune, have brought out the successor to their 2013 creation, ‘The Pine’ – a smart-watch called ‘The Hub’ – and is designed to replace, rather than work in conjunction with your smartphone. This means that it is the first truly mobile wrist-based device, and with increased battery life and functionality, it lends itself to a wide range of applications.

Online gaming is another field that has experienced enormous recent growth, and Royal Vegas Casino has managed to combine these two areas by offering a wide range of casino games and online slot machines direct to your wrist – meaning that you can get away with subtly playing roulette at the dinner table, or making real money on their recently-returned Wheel of Fortune slot-game when you should be paying attention to what your boss is saying at your next briefing.

iPhone6 paired with iWatch- online gaming for your wrist!
iPhone6 paired with iWatch- online gaming for your wrist!

As well as a wide range of games (complete with huge welcome bonuses, free spins and access to members-only tournaments and prize draws) Royal Vegas Casino also offer their users access to their regularly updated blog, which keeps players up-to-speed with the latest goings-on from the world of online gaming. This means that you need never miss a release date or a chance to take advantage of limited time offers – and all from your watch!

NYMI wrist-tech from Toronto
NYMI wrist-tech from Toronto

But it seems that Canada is leading the way in more than one wrist-based technology and Toronto tech company ‘NYMI’ have created a wristband that reads heartbeats and has the ability to use them as a form of personal identification, allowing you access to bank accounts or internet services without the risk of them being stolen in the same way that fingerprints can be.

Whichever way you look at it, Canada is at the forefront of cutting edge and user-friendly technology – and if it beeps, chirps or flashes on your wrist, the odds are that it was conceived in The Great White North – and so long as they keep making our lives more interesting, safer or convenient, long may it continue. For the Silo, Jarrod Barker

 

Ontario Set to be First Province to test Auto-driving Vehicles and Technology

Ontario First to Test Automated Vehicles on Roads in Canada

Province Supports Innovation in Transportation Technology

 

You should take auto-driving cars seriously- every major Auto manufacturer is venturing forward with concepts like this one- GM's EN-V
You should take auto-driving cars seriously- every major Auto manufacturer is venturing forward with concepts such as this one from General Motors- the GM EN-V

 

Ontario is launching a new pilot to allow for the testing of automated vehicles on Ontario roads.

 

Automated vehicles are driverless or self-driving vehicles that are capable of detecting the surrounding environment using artificial intelligence, sensors and global positioning system coordinates. Automated and connected vehicle technologies have the potential to help improve fuel efficiency as well as reduce traffic congestion, greenhouse gas emissions and driver distraction.

 

Beginning on January 1, 2016, Ontario will lead Canada as the first province to test automated vehicles and related technology on-road. Currently there are nearly 100 companies and institutions involved in the connected vehicle and automated vehicle industry in the province. The pilot will enable those companies to conduct research and development in Ontario rather than in competing jurisdictions, as well as support opportunities to bring automated vehicles to market.

 

The province is also pledging an additional $500,000 in funding to the Ontario Centres of Excellence Connected Vehicle/Automated Vehicle Program, in addition to the $2.45 million in funding recently provided. The program brings academic institutions and business together to promote and encourage innovative transportation technology.

 

Ensuring Ontario’s place as a world leader in the auto, transportation, information and communications technology sectors are part of the government’s plan to build Ontario up. The four-part plan includes investing in people’s talents and skills, making the largest investment in public infrastructure in Ontario’s history, creating a dynamic, innovative environment where business thrives, and building a secure retirement savings plan.

Not all concepts are futuristic looking such as Google's modded Prius. We're betting Ontario will test more conservatively styled auto-drivers such as this one. CP
Not all concepts are futuristic looking such as Google’s modded Prius. We’re betting Ontario will test more conservatively styled auto-drivers such as this one. CP image: New York Times

QUOTE

 

“In the world of transportation, Ontario has the opportunity to show leadership on automated technology. Today, Ontario is making its claim in the global marketplace by taking the next steps in automated vehicle innovation. The automated vehicle pilot will ensure that the province’s roads remain safe without creating burdens that stifle investment and innovation in Ontario’s dynamic business environment.”

— Steven Del Duca, Minister of Transportation

 

“Ontario is a global leader in developing and manufacturing the next generation of vehicles.

This new pilot program will build on our success, and help Ontario lead the development of automated and connected car technologies. In this highly competitive global economy, investing in people’s talents and skills to create the next generation of innovative technologies is good for business, and can help lead to the easier movement of goods and services across the province.”

— Brad Duguid, Minister of Economic Development, Employment and Infrastructure

 

QUICK FACTS

 

  • Information about applying for the pilot will be available online from the Ministry of Transportation in late November.
  • The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers forecast that by 2040, autonomous vehicles will account for 75 per cent of all vehicles on the road.

 

LEARN MORE

 

Ontario Investing in the Next Generation of Connected Vehicles

Connected Vehicle/Automated Vehicle (CVAV) Research Program

 

Who wouldn't want to ride/drive Chevrolet's FNR concept car?
Who wouldn’t want to ride/drive Chevrolet’s FNR concept car?

 

Disponible en français:
L’Ontario est la première province à mettre à l’essai les véhicules automatisés La province encourage l’innovation dans les technologies des transports 
L’Ontario lance un projet pilote en vue de la mise à l’essai de véhicules automatisés sur ses routes.
Les véhicules automatisés sont des véhicules sans chauffeur ou autoconduits qui peuvent détecter l’environnement avoisinant grâce à l’intelligence artificielle, aux capteurs et aux coordonnées fournies par le système de positionnement global. Les technologies relatives aux véhicules automatisés et connectés ont le potentiel d’améliorer le rendement du carburant et de réduire la congestion routière, les émissions de gaz à effet de serre et la distraction au volant.
Dès le 1er janvier 2016, l’Ontario sera le premier lieu au Canada à mettre à l’essai les véhicules automatisés et les technologies connexes sur la route. Près d’une centaine d’entreprises et d’établissements œuvrent actuellement dans le secteur des véhicules connectés et automatisés dans la province. Le projet pilote permettra à ces entreprises de mener des activités de recherche et de développement en Ontario plutôt que dans les territoires concurrents, en plus de créer des possibilités qui favoriseront l’introduction des véhicules automatisés sur le marché.
La province s’engage aussi à injecter 500 000 $ de plus dans le Programme de recherche sur les véhicules connectés et autonomes par l’intermédiaire des Centres d’excellence de l’Ontario, outre le financement de 2,45 millions de dollars récemment alloué. Ce programme réunit des établissements universitaires et des entreprises en vue de promouvoir les technologies de transport novatrices et d’encourager leur utilisation.
S’assurer de faire de l’Ontario un chef de file mondial dans les secteurs de l’automobile, du transport et des technologies de l’information et des communications s’inscrit dans le plan du gouvernement visant à renforcer la province. Ce plan comprend quatre volets : investir dans les talents et les compétences de la population, faire le plus important investissement dans l’infrastructure publique de l’histoire de l’Ontario, créer un environnement dynamique et novateur où les entreprises prospèrent, et établir un régime d’épargne-retraite sûr.
CITATIONS
« L’Ontario a l’occasion de montrer l’exemple par le recours à la technologie automatisée dans le domaine des transports. L’Ontario marque aujourd’hui le marché mondial de son empreinte en franchissant une nouvelle étape pour stimuler l’innovation dans l’automatisation des véhicules. Le projet pilote sur les véhicules automatisés sera mis en œuvre de façon à s’assurer que les routes de la province restent sûres sans créer des fardeaux qui étoufferaient l’investissement et l’innovation dans le dynamique environnement commercial de l’Ontario. »— Steven Del Duca, ministre des Transports
« L’Ontario est un chef de file mondial dans la conception et la fabrication de la prochaine génération de véhicules. Ce nouveau projet pilote misera sur notre succès et aidera la province à prendre les devants dans le développement des technologies des véhicules automatisés et connectés. Dans cette économie mondiale hautement concurrentielle, le fait d’investir dans les talents et les compétences de la population afin de créer la prochaine génération de technologies innovatrices est bon pour les affaires et peut faciliter un mouvement plus fluide des biens et des services dans l’ensemble de la province. »— Brad Duguid, ministre du Développement économique, de l’Emploi et de l’Infrastructure
FAITS EN BREF

  • Le ministère des Transports offrira de l’information en ligne sur la présentation de demandes dans le cadre du projet pilote à la fin novembre.
  • L’Institut des ingénieurs électriciens et électroniciens prévoit que les véhicules autonomes compteront pour 75 p. 100 de tous les véhicules sur la route d’ici 2040.

 POUR EN SAVOIR DAVANTAGE
Soutenir l’innovation dans les technologies de transportProgramme de recherche sur les véhicules connectés et autonomes

Canada Needs To Adopt WHO Labeling Says MP Justin Trudeau

photo courtesy of the author
photo courtesy of the author

Article from March , 2013 –  In 1981, the World Health Organization introduced Code of Marketing for Breast-milk Substitutes. To date, 84 countries have enacted legislation making the labeling Code law in their countries. While Canada agreed and signed onto The Code and the amendments, to date it has not created any law, which would uphold this International document.

The WHO Code says, among many other items, that breast milk substitutes (including formula and infant foods) should not be directly advertised to consumers because they are sub-optimal foods to feed to babies and infants. Advertising includes newspapers, ads on Google or other websites, texting, and free samples through the mail.

Formula companies in Canada say they abide by the WHO Code by including a preamble in every commercial: “while breast milk is best…” Ask your average consumer today what they think about breast milk and formula and specifically if there is any difference. I have posed this question while working at numerous health fairs in the past 5 years. It is staggering the number of people who view breast milk and formula as having the same nutritional value. In case you do not know already, this has scientifically been proven false.

Over the past 5 years, I have written MPs and MPPs about why Canada does not uphold the WHO Code. What I heard from Health Canada directly is:

The Food Directorate of Health Canada is responsible for the development of policies, regulations and standards for all foods. The Food Directorate is also responsible for the premarket notification process for infant formulas…Manufacturers are responsible for the accuracy of information on the labels and advertisements for food and for compliance…”

This is akin to letting prisoners run the jail.

While writing my monthly (and at times weekly) concerns to government officials, I found an MP who said that, “If we were signatories to it, we should live up to it.” This was Justin Trudeau.

I am saying be politically involved. I have a stack of letters and many emails from all parties in their response to the WHO Code. It has been 30 years since Canada signed The Code. Why is it taking so long to actually do something to enforce it? Enforcing the Code would not result in taking formula off the market at all. The Code’s aim is to make healthier babies and our babies are entitled to the highest degree of health. For the Silo, Stephanie MacDonald. 

StephanieMacDonaldSiloWriter

 

 

Computer Controlled Vanity App Enhances Selfies With A.I.

Amazingly natural, artifact-free "face slimming" feature.
Amazingly natural, artifact-free “face slimming” feature.

Way back in August, 2015 the world’s first “intelligent selfie app” was released by Anthropics Technology. 

Combining artificial intelligence and image enhancement, Mira understands what makes people look good and lets users airbrush faces automatically.

Chief Mira Scientist Tony Polichroniadis comments:

“By understanding what makes people look beautiful, Mira can improve all aspects of a selfie with just one tap. Users do not need to use any special tools: the app understands what to do and does it for you. This is the culmination of over ten years of research, and we are thrilled to be releasing this technology to smartphone users everywhere.”

Perfect Your Selfies AppExample1

Skin BeautificationPERFECT YOUR SELFIES

Mira’s unique cutting-edge features include:

Relighting – change the light source to flatter your face. World first

Lens correction – fix unflattering cameraphone distortion. World first

Skin perfection – remove spots, wrinkles and blemishes.

Best in class skin enhancer.

Face refining – slim the face and de-emphasize prominent features. Intelligently moves face towards beauty.

Click Me!
Click Me!

About Mira:

Mira has been developed by the makers of PortraitPro, the world’s best-selling portrait enhancement software. Used by over half a million professional photographers and retouchers, PortraitPro is the best reviewed and most advanced software for automatic face enhancement.

About Anthropics Technology:

Anthropics Technology has been the overwhelming world leader in professional face beautification since 2005. We are now bringing our unique intelligent technology to mobiles.

Click to view on I-tunes
Click to view on I-tunes

Why Brampton Ontario Is Powerhouse In Health And Life Sciences Sector

Partnering with innovative businesses to attract talent and spur growth is making Brampton a powerhouse in the fast-growing health and life sciences sector.

Since 2005, the City of Brampton has seen a 50 per cent growth in health and life sciences and is now home to more than 250 companies in the sector.

Mayor Jeffrey
Mayor Jeffrey

“This is a priority growth area for Brampton. In order to bring the best businesses here, we’re committed to creating strong partnerships with innovative companies that will attract knowledge-based jobs to grow the city and the sector,” said Mayor Linda Jeffrey. “From our young, diverse, educated and highly skilled workforce to our ranking as one of the best places to do business, to the incredible lifestyle that employees can enjoy, Brampton is the best choice for innovative health and life sciences businesses looking to start up or re-locate.”

Leading health and life science companies have proven that Brampton is the best city to work with to grow their business, with the sector currently employing more than 11,700 highly skilled workers in the city. Brampton is a significant contributor in Ontario’s life sciences sector and is located within the province’s biotechnology cluster, currently the third largest in North America.

Innovative and successful health and life sciences companies and headquarters are quickly becoming the norm in Canada’s second-fastest growing city, such as:

  • Brampton’s William Osler Health System is an emerging leader in health care research and development and plays a critical role in the education of hundreds of future health professionals each year. Its strong clinician-based, formalized research program focuses on improving patient care; shifting to preventative, proactive care; and treating diverse populations – the goal of its Global Health Program. Osler offers world-class technology and innovative, cutting-edge surgical techniques, including hybrid vascular and endovascular surgery – a minimally invasive way to treat diseases of the blood vessels while minimizing the overall risks to patients and reducing hospital stays. Osler inspires a culture of innovation through its annual national student app competition, fusing health care and technology by challenging students to design and develop mobile digital health care applications for the benefit of patients and their families.
The NeuroArm's first surgical use: Brain Surgery
The NeuroArm’s first surgical use: Brain Surgery
  • MDA Space Missions developed the NeuroArm, a cutting-edge device for neurosurgery. The result of close collaboration between MDA space robotic engineers (of CanadArm fame), the University of Calgary and Alberta Health Services physicians, nurses and scientists, the group is creating an image-guided robotic arm for microsurgery. Controlled by the surgeon, the device allows for more precise surgery with a near real time view of the area being worked on and the location of the surgical tools – truly changing the way that life-saving surgery will be performed in the future.
  • Taro Pharmaceuticals Inc., a global leader in pharmaceutical manufacturing, refers to its Brampton operation as its worldwide centre of excellence for dermatology, liquid manufacturing and research. Ontario is helping Taro Pharmaceuticals Inc. invest in new manufacturing and R&D equipment to expand research and production at its Brampton facility, with a $7 million investment creating up to 140 new jobs and retaining 395 positions in the city.
  • Dynacare Medical Laboratories’ main testing facility in Brampton is one of the largest, most state-of-the-art laboratories in North America. Dynacare is at the forefront of researching, developing and validating innovative new screening and diagnostic tests for introduction into the Canadian marketplace. Dynacare has been instrumental in the early delivery of new tests in the areas of allergy, cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, paternity, ulcers, and other problems of the stomach and intestines and more.
Click to learn about ErinoakKids' innovative Music Therapy
Click to learn about ErinoakKids’ innovative Music Therapy
  • ErinoakKids Centre for Treatment and Development has broken ground on a new 122,000 square foot treatment facility in Brampton for children with disabilities and special needs. The facility, set to open in 2017, will house Ontario’s largest respite centre for children who are medically fragile/technology dependent, have complex care requirements, behavioural challenges, or autism. The centre will offer a range of services from day to overnight stays and, for the first time, 24/7 service. Specially trained staff will care for the children and youth,providing programmed activities and interactions while offering a period of respite for their parents and caregivers.
CEO Bridget Fewtrell
CEO Bridget Fewtrell

“We are most fortunate to be part of, and to serve, the growing Brampton community,” said ErinoakKids President and CEO Bridget Fewtrell. “When we open our new facility in 2017, children and youth with disabilities and special needs in Brampton will have more access to better coordinated services to help them reach their true potential. We are truly excited to continue expanding service to this thriving city and its growing population.”

About Brampton: The ninth-largest city in Canada, Brampton celebrates a diverse population that represents people from 209 distinct ethnic backgrounds who speak 89 different languages. Brampton residents and visitors have access to state-of- the-art recreation facilities and one of the fastest-growing transit systems in Canada. Opened in 2007, Brampton Civic Hospital is part of the William Osler Health System, which is one of the largest community hospitals in Canada. For more information, visit www.brampton.ca or follow @CityBrampton on Twitter.

SipSup mobile linked Drinking Glass disrupts Conventions of Communication

SipSup3 SipSup  is a new beverage drinking glass that communicates with smart phones via app technology to become an interactive media display and storage unit. When you have finished drinking your beverage of choice, digital photos and videos you have dropped into your glass via the SipSup app are left behind. The SipSup app enables you to keep your special moments only for yourself (private) or to make them visible to every person who happens to tap their phone to your glass (public). The social interaction possibilities are endless- many of us already spend a lot of time at coffeehouses or pubs, consider bringing your glass along- it would be a great way to meet new people and discover new forms of interaction- all via your hi-tech SipSup glassware. SipSup1If that wasn’t enough, another feature called “post-it”, allows your guests to leave photos or videos on your glass and even write on a fun message. Hydration will never again be boring. SipSupLogoA Slovenian start-up that prides itself on ‘out of the box’ thinking, the SipSup team have taken an object we all use on a daily basis and given it new functions. SipSup will stand out from the other glasses in your kitchen because of it’s distinct curved shape designed to naturally fit your hand. It’s base resembles the ripple effect of a drop falling into water and was inspired by the notion of  “dropping moments into a glass”. You can get this great looking piece of smart glassware on Kickstarter. For more information email: marketingdirector@thesilo.ca

 

 

 

Click to view on I-tunes
Click to view on I-tunes

COOPY handheld Smart Device launches Kickstarter Campaign

COOPY is a small, hand-held tool which provides users with a solution to complete multiple functions by simply clicking a button.

With the simple action of clicking one of three buttons included on this smart device, COOPY uses its own application to complete designated functions as set by the user. This includes, but is not limited to, sending predefined texts, alerting someone of your geographic location in the case of an emergency, locating objects and turning on home or office appliances, etc.

CLICK ME to watch HD VIDEO
CLICK ME to watch HD VIDEO

Aleksander Preglej, Chief Technology Officer of Pentasens:  “COOPY is perfect for any type of user: a business professional, athlete, parent, young adult or even a child. We also designed this device to include time and location awareness, so the functions automatically change based on where you are and when. This is one of the major features that sets us apart from our competition.

With the ever-growing demands of our day-to-day schedules and the potential danger of multi-tasking at inopportune times, our company wanted to create COOPY as an easy-to-handle gadget that allows you to be as productive as possible without jeopardizing your safety or the safety of those around you. We know that everyone’s time is valuable and sometimes it could pose as a risk when you’re trying to do too much at one time.”

Pentasens rolled out its first product, SensMesh, a wireless sensor system (www.sensmesh.com) in 2014, which evolved into a smart modular solution for boats, BoatEye (boateye.io). Keeping up with the latest trends in technology, Pentasens strives to provide consumers with state-of-the-art products, safe to use and modern and sleek in design.

Kickstarter Pledge Kickstarter campaign for COOPY runs until July3rd and can be accessed here.

facebook.com/getcoopy

twitter.com/getcoopy

Pic Pal Is A Free Real Time Selfie App

Selfies—an act in which the photographer is also the subject of the photograph—are hugely popular in today’s world. Selfie sticks, selfie apps and even selfie songs are taking the world by storm. If you’re on a hike or at the dentist and feel the need to let your associates know, take a selfie!

PicPal combines social media, real-time collages, and the ever important selfie into one App. Want to share what you’re doing right now with a close group of friends? Simply open PicPal, choose the friends you want in that collage and take a selfie. The app simultaneously sends a request to your friends to take a selfie too. PicPal will automatically create a selfie collage of all users and send it to each person’s phone.

PicPal Collage

Yes, there are already an enormous amount of apps that make collages; but the process is tedious and always after the fact. PicPal has social collage creation built into the app, effectively turning a lengthy process into instant creativity. Picpal isn’t always about the end result – it’s about the immediate moment. Friends who are across the country can meet in an instant through a Picpal photo. Whether they want to see what’s up or simply miss being in pictures together, Picpal lets them do it. All you have to do is invite your friends and watch the Picpal develop into an amazingly spontaneous shared experience.

Pic Pal DescriptionPicPal is designed so that users can have fun with collages that are both “in the moment” and hassle-free. Want to show your friends what you are doing as well as see what they are doing and create a collage of it? PicPal makes this quick and enjoyable.

–       Sign up! Sign in with one simple click using your Facebook account.   The app automatically finds your Facebook contacts that are on Picpal.

–       Invite! Pick up to 3 (you can add more friends to a Picpal in future releases) Picpal friends to participate in a Picpal selfie collage.

–       Snap! Take your selfie while your friends take theirs.

–       Watch! See your selfies transform into a shared experience – a Picpal selfies collage –  right before your eyes!

Whether you’re missing your friends or just want to see what’s up, Picpal allows you to connect, create, and share in real time.

–       Share! Skim through your gallery to see what Picpals your friends have shared with you.

–       Interact! “Heart” or comment on Picpals that you love! OR Upload to Instagram or Facebook straight from the app

Whether you’re wishing someone Happy Birthday, playing a game, or just interacting with your friends, PicPal allows you to be with your friends – even when you’re not.

Device Lets Mountain Bikers Check Sealant Without Removing Tires

Swiss invention milKit makes mountain biking with tubeless tires easier than ever. With milKit, riders and racers can quickly measure and check their remaining tire sealant with a simple, portable kit, adding sealant as needed while leaving their tires on the rim, maintaining air pressure, keeping their hands clean and saving time. The inventors are currently running a campaign on IndieGoGo

MilKit LogoTubeless without the tedium: milKit is the fastest way to inspect, measure and add sealant; easy to install and compatible with all standard rims.

Tubeless tires have more traction, a lower rolling resistance and are more puncture proof than traditional bike tires. But they can also be a pain to maintain, potentially slowing you down in the middle of a race — unless you’re riding with milKit.

Mountain bikers riding on tubeless tires normally must detach their tires to check their remaining sealant, a time-consuming and messy process. milKit eliminates the guessing game and lets professional and amateur riders alike quickly and easily check and add to their remaining sealant in seconds, while their tires remain on their rims and their bikes stay at the ready.

MilKit Use Instructions

The Swiss invention milKit comprises two easy-to-install valves that are compatible with all standard rims and a custom applicator that lets bikers remove, inspect and inject sealant whenever needed, with no mess or fuss.

Installation:

–       Installing milKit is easy: Insert the special milKit valves like usual valves in rims. They fit to any standard rim.

–       Pump the tire to 1.5 bar / 22psi

–       Insert sealant with the milKit applicator and keep your hands clean

Advantages:

–       Save time: Measure and refill sealant without deflating the tire.

–       No more guessing games: Riders will always know exactly how much sealant is needed

–       A rubber flab prevents sealant from filling and blocking the valves

–       Clean hands and simple to use

Maintaining sealant volume and quality is paramount to a safe ride over any terrain, and there’s no better way to do it than with milKit. And milKit means briefer pit stops during endurance races, when a few minutes saved can make all the difference.

Thomas FrischknechtProfessional riders agree: mountain biking legend Thomas Frischknecht approved of our prototypes, and Cape Epic 2015 champion Christoph Sauser believes they’re “great.”

The portable milKit applicator has a home in every biker’s pack. And now mountain bikers all over the world can use Indiegogo to help make milKit the ubiquitous product it deserves to be. By contributing on Indiegogo riders can ensure they’re among the first to experience easy tubeless mountain biking and faster races. Head to the milKit website to see for yourself what milKit can do.

About milKit

milKit is a Swiss team of experienced engineers, designers and computer scientists that share one passion: mountain biking. They work together to develop solutions to everyday problems that face mountain biking enthusiasts. Checking sealant presented one such a problem, and milKit is the answer.

 

 

Getting Social: Living in the Age of Tech and Social Media

Owner/ CEO at ArtPlusHome.com and VeryVeniceArt.com
Owner/ CEO at ArtPlusHome.com and VeryVeniceArt.com

When you’re a 20-something, what’s the first and the last thing you do? You check your Facebook or you tweet. When you want to buy a pair of jeans and you want to ask your friends’ opinions, you post a picture on Instagram with a #needyourhelp! And who needs to go to a store when Amazon is only a click away right? Social Media and E-Commerce have permeated your personal and social lives. Nowadays, to keep up with the rest of the world, you have to have a smart phone, a tablet and at least 3 social media accounts. Your thought process can now be summarized into: Click. Like. Share. Repeat.  Information in an instant !

The coolest thing about Social Media and online stores is the ease by which you send and receive information. The idea that you can connect to a friend in Asia, check out the latest happenings in Europe, and buy the outfit you’ve been eyeing for on discount via Amazon still fascinates many. Not only does the connection happen in real-time, it is also extremely convenient for the hyperactive, multitasking yuppie. Who would’ve thought that you can talk to someone halfway around the world while riding the train? Or that now, you can buy everything you need online while working out. Literally, the world is at your fingertips.

What about Design my Home?

If social media transformed the way you connect with the world, then mobile technology is revolutionize the way you see and experience it. With its public launch in February 2015, everyone is expected to rock the new Art Plus Home Virtual app and two words are sure to be immensely popular: “Share and Buy” This new breakthrough promises to merge the real, the virtual, and the social. Indeed, the possibilities are endless. Two fields that can definitely benefit from this innovation are art and design, particularly for the home. As more and more young professionals climb the ladders of success, you find yourselves located in a condo or in an apartment at the heart of the city. And in the name of individuality, almost all of you are heavily involved in truly making your homes a place to call your own. “I’m a minimalist guy. I like a lot of black and white pieces,” shared Alex, a young accountant. “I’ve always had a penchant for quirky furniture and eclectic painting, both of which are very hard to find by the way,” explains Jessica, a law graduate.

Here lies the conundrum. In as much as you newly-empowered breed want to go all out to design your homes, you simply don’t have the time. “Designing your own place is a completely different animal. It’s almost a full-time job,” says Ashley. She went on further, “It’s almost like a cat and mouse game. You go to an art gallery to find a good painting. Then you have to go to another store for the drapes. Then you go look for a nice coffee table. They’re a perfect match in your head but after you install them in the living room, they just look horrible.” Dary Rees, an artist and a designer herself, knew exactly what Ashley meant.

It's really about using the latest in augmented reality to "try out" art pieces in your home before you buy. photo: iwearyourecho.com
It’s really about using the latest in augmented reality to “try out” art pieces in your home before you buy. photo: iwearyourecho.com

“Designing your home takes a lot of imagination. All the time, you have to close your eyes and visualize how every art piece, every furniture, and every drape will come together. That’s not easy. But it should be.” Then idea struck! Bringing together a team of people, Dary went to work. After months of development, the Art Plus Home virtual app was born. “With the Art Plus Home app, you can shop, visualize, and buy for your home in your own time and at your own convenience. You get to choose anything you like from the online gallery, superimpose them together in your space, and see how it looks – all in a matter of minutes. You can even share the design to friends! If you like the design, you can buy them right then and there. If not, you can start all over,” explains Dary. This is perfect for the Gen Y who is always on the go. You can design and buy for your home  on the way to work, after a Yoga session, or even before you go to bed. The Art Plus Home app is also ideal if you’re on the look out for the latest in art and design. Check-out gallery openings, up and coming artists, or simply browse what’s hot (and not) so you have something to talk to with your date.. The Art Plus Home app is available in Android and in iOS.

Generation Y is a new breed. You’re motivated to succeed, you’re proud of your individuality, you’re always mobile, and you’re extremely connected to the world around you. With such a personality, you’re a perfect match for the Art Plus Home app!  www.ArtPlusHome.com and download the free app at any app store.

FCC Promoted American Broadband Competition And Net Neutrality

In late 2014- early 2015, the FCC stood up for more competition and more choice in local broadband. This is a critical step in making faster, cheaper Internet available for all Americans.

You may have heard that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) just put in place rules to protect ‘net neutrality.’ That’s big news. But there was another important decision today to help keep the Internet competitive and open — and while it’s getting less attention, it may be just as important. As part of its agenda to encourage meaningful competition in high speed broadband for Americans, the FCC supported allowing cities to make their own decisions about investing in new broadband networks. More needs to be done to drive innovation in bigger, faster broadband, but this was a good step.
Canadian ISP client

While the FCC’s net neutrality rules can help prevent Internet access providers from relegating some applications to a “slow lane,” this move alone won’t lead to a world where every consumer has an ultra fast connection to the entire Internet. That’s going to take more competition and innovation in new broadband networks.

It’s been nearly five years since we offered to build a fiber-optic network in one U.S. city as an experiment — and as we’ve expanded Google Fiber into a business, we’ve seen firsthand how faster speeds can improve lives and give cities new platforms for economic development. Google is not the only one innovating in this area. Along with investments by other private providers, cities like Lafayette, LA and Chattanooga, TN have been investing in their own networks and developing public-private partnerships to that end.

The FCC decided that it’s important for users to be able to control their own Internet connections and for communities to make their own choices to suit their local needs for broadband. While it may not make sense for most governments to operate broadband networks themselves, we think faster, better broadband for all Americans is too important to remove an option for deployment.

Thank Chairman Wheeler and the FCC for supporting local choice and competition in broadband networks: https://takeaction.withgoogle.com/thank-the-fcc     For the Silo, Derek Slater Google Inc.

P.S. If you want to learn more about the ingenuity of cities supporting broadband investment and competition, check out Next Century Cities.

Supplemental- Test if your Internet Service Provider is “throttling down” your internet connection speed. (requires Java plug-in installed)

How competitive is the Canadian Residential Broadband Market?  ( Essay from 2009- has anything improved since?)

 

Technology Detects Eye Disease Years Ahead Of Current State Of The Art

The technology is not limited to 'human only' use CP
The technology is not limited to ‘human only’ use CP

WATERFORD, Mich. – An Ann Arbor-based medical device manufacturer that developed a technology to detect eye disease years earlier than current methods is Medical Main Street’s “INNO-VATOR of the Year.” 

OcuSciences, Inc. is a medical diagnostic device company commercializing a rapid, non-invasive test for early detection of retinal disease. Physicians can use the device to screen patients for diabetes and early eye disease. Optometrists and ophthalmologists can use the device to diagnose and monitor disease progression and guide therapy. 

“I stand in awe of the work done by OcuSciences and its new imaging techniques to measure damage to retinal tissue from diabetes, macular degeneration and glaucoma,” Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson said. “This achievement in medical device manufacturing is indicative of the type of world-class research being conducted in the Medical Main Street region.” 

iVivo VET

The INNO-VATOR of the Year award honors the creators of a medical device which demonstrates the most dramatic change in the health care industry in Michigan. To be considered for the award, the device must have been developed in Michigan, achieved prototype development and validation, and incorporate a game-changing innovation.

The award will be presented Oct. 22 during Medical Main Street’s INNO-VENTION 2014 conference at the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi. In 2013, Ann Arbor-based HistoSonics won for its Vortx Rx® device that uses sound energy to treat tissue inside the body without the need for traditional surgery. In 2012, Sentio LLC of Southfield and Ablative Solutions of Kalamazoo were each named co-winners. Sentio created a device to alert doctors when nerves are at risk during surgery and Ablative Solutions’ technology treats hypertension.

Based on technology licensed from the University of Michigan, OcuSciences has developed a proprietary, ocular imaging technique, Retinal Metabolic AnalysisTM (RMA), as a non-invasive, rapid biomarker for measuring the damage to retinal tissue due to diabetes, macular degeneration and glaucoma. This new measure has been termed a new vital sign for patients – similar to blood pressure or body temperature.

The RMA technology provides a means to detect disease processes several years earlier than current clinical methods and before irreversible structural alterations due to cell death become visible in the retina.

OcuSciences has demonstrated that RMA is more predictive of diabetes than other tests, helping pharmaceutical companies develop ophthalmic drugs more rapidly and precisely.

With 57 million diabetics in the U.S. today, and eight percent of those as undiagnosed diabetics, diabetes is a rapidly growing epidemic, especially among children. The screening for diabetic retinopathy and early treatment can help prevent blindness in 24,000 patients annually and reduce the $174 billion costs associated with diabetes.

INNO-VENTION 2014 is set for Oct. 21-22 at the Suburban Collection Showplace.

Now in its third year, the conference will feature an expansion of the popular Demonstration Alley, with 21 companies exhibiting the latest medical technology innovations. There will also be expert panel discussions on intellectual property, accountable care organizations, health and wellness as an asset, and mobile health care.

The Medical Main Street board includes Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Beaumont Health System, Beckman Coulter Molecular Diagnostics, Crittenton Hospital, Detroit Medical Center, Ferndale Laboratories, Henry Ford Health Systems, Housey Pharmaceutical Research Laboratories, McLaren Health Care – Oakland, MichBio, State Rep. Gail Haines, R-Waterford, Oakland Community College, Oakland University, Oxus Inc., Priority Health, Rockwell Medical Technologies, St. John Providence Health System, St. Joseph Mercy Oakland and Stryker Corp.

For more information on INNO-VENTION 2014, visit www.MedicalMainStreet.com.

BenQ adds new Home Theater Colorific Projectors to its high tech line- 4K Yes!

The Benq 1075- a full 1080p HD image, with the promise of over 1 billion colors and options for 3D. We want! CP
The Benq 1075- a full 1080p HD image, with the promise of over 1 billion colors and options for 3D. We want! CP

 

COSTA MESA, Calif. — BenQ America Corp., an internationally renowned provider of visual display solutions and the No. 1-selling DLP® projector brand in The Americas(1), today introduced its next-generation Colorific™ home entertainment projectors: the HT1075 and HT1085ST. Building on the incredible success of the company’s top-selling W1070 and the short-throw W1080ST, the new home theater devices have been designed to take content to an entirely new level — combining the magic of over 1 billion colors, 3D-readiness, and the realism of full HD 1080p picture quality. What’s more, the new projectors add streaming and mirroring capabilities for devices equipped with Mobile High-definition Link (MHL) to allow the transfer of small-screen content from any portable device. When such an astounding feature set meets such a small price tag, enthusiasts can now easily bring home a full-on cinematic experience.

“BenQ has taken two enormously successful projectors and made them even better,” said Bob Wudeck, Associate Vice President, Strategy and Business Development at BenQ America Corp. “Sustaining our value promise to our customers, the all-new HT1075 and HT1085ST provide enhanced benefits such as Colorific image quality, SmartEco technology, and flexible setup options that allow users to install and easily integrate the projectors with their MHL devices. Available at an amazingly low price, the duo delivers more vibrant colors and richer contrast levels for the ultimate in big screen entertainment.”

Featuring BenQ’s Colorific image quality, the HT1075 and HT1085ST provide more vivid and accurate color reproduction, higher brightness levels, crisper contrast, and longer-lasting picture quality. Both units offer full HD 1080p and 3D support, while the short-throw HT1085ST allows users to fill screens measuring up to 100 inches by simply setting up the device at only 6 feet away — making it an ideal choice for urban environments or media room settings where installation space is limited. Adding to the projectors’ razor-sharp imaging are 2,200 ANSI lumens of brightness and a 10,000:1 contrast ratio, which turn colors from TV shows, movies, or sporting events into more natural-looking, film-like content. The projectors are also ISFccc-certified by the Imaging Science Foundation® (ISF®), enabling viewers to enjoy a professionally calibrated picture with two optimized modes — ISF Day and ISF Night.

To create a household media hub, users can easily connect Blu-ray players and gaming consoles to the projectors via HDMI® as well as view cloud content using any MHL-ready streaming device, including Roku®, Chromecast®, and Apple® TV. As a result, viewers can bring their favorite content from popular services such as Netflix® or Hulu™ onto the screen using their streaming player of choice or even directly from their smart device. Rounding off the unparalleled convenience are the units’ new 10W chamber speakers, which offer rich audio to create a complete solution whenever a dedicated sound system is not practical, or in outdoor situations such as movie nights under the stars.

Further reducing installation and setup time is a new vertical lens shift option for the HT1075, allowing users to perfectly align the projected image to the center of the screen, thus eliminating any tedious tinkering. To ensure even more placement flexibility, both models offer horizontal and vertical keystone correction, which delivers picture-perfect projection at the push of a button. Saving money by lowering total cost of ownership (TCO), the projectors are equipped with BenQ’s SmartEco™ lamp-saving technology to prolong lamp life up to an amazing 6,000 hours while lasting three times as long as projectors sold just a few years ago. Additional cost-saving features include a filter-free design built around a sealed DLP chip that eliminates the need to clean or change messy filters; a unique lamp door design that enables lamp replacement down the road without needing to take down the projector; and a special sleep mode that reduces power consumption to under half a watt when connected but not in use.

To further simplify installations, a new optional wireless connectivity kit will be sold separately and is planned for release in Q4 2014. The fully wireless system will allow users to send content to the projectors from up to 100 feet away, giving homeowners the freedom to move the projectors throughout the house or even take them outdoors without the need to run cable.

Available in September 2014, BenQ’s all-new HT1075 and HT1085ST projectors retail at $1,199 (USD)and $1,299 (USD) respectively.

More information on BenQ’s full line of products is available at www.BenQ.us.

About BenQ America Corp.  The BenQ digital lifestyle brand stands for “Bringing Enjoyment ‘N’ Quality to Life,” fusing lifestyle with technology, enjoyment with productivity, and aesthetic design with purpose-built engineering. It is this mantra that has made BenQ the No. 1-selling DLP® projector brand in The Americas(1). BenQ America Corp. offers an extensive line of visual display and presentation solutions that incorporate the very latest technologies. The company delivers a broad range of Colorific projectors, RevolutionEyes™ monitors, and flat-panel displays for any application and market — education, home, gaming, enterprise, government, house of worship, digital signage, A/V, and IT — with cutting-edge models that lead the industry in performance, reliability, environmental sustainability, and aesthetics. Whether it’s interactive digital whiteboards for classrooms, full HD 3D projectors for home theaters, short-throw projectors for boardrooms, interactive flat-panel displays for digital signage, or LED backlight monitors for professional gaming, BenQ continues to defy the limits of digital displays. The company’s products are available across North America through leading value-added distributors, resellers, and retailers.

Click to view on I-tunes
Click to view on I-tunes

 

Canada To Allow Passenger Use Of VR Headsets During All Flight Phases

The Harper government to allow passengers to use portable electronic devices during all phases of flight. With Virtual Reality headsets poised to enter the mainstream consumer market- we wonder if Occulus Rifters will be able to 'wear' their kit. CP
The Harper government to allow passengers to use portable electronic devices during all phases of flight.

Last month, The Honorable Lisa Raitt, Minister of Transport, announced an important change that will benefit travelers flying with Canadian air operators, as well as the aviation industry. Passengers will soon be able to use portable electronic devices such as cameras, electronic games, tablets and computers during all phases of flight. This includes while an aircraft takes off, climbs, descends and lands, provided the device is in non-transmitting, or flight mode, and that their airline has met certain safety conditions outlined by Transport Canada.

Previously, passengers could not use their devices at their leisure during take off and landing. This change, which is made possible through an exemption to the Canadian Aviation Regulations, means that passengers will soon be able to work or play whenever they please on flights in Canada. It strikes the appropriate balance between safety and passenger comfort that Transport Canada and airlines always strive to achieve. The use of electronic devices on any flight will be at the discretion of the air operators, who must demonstrate that their aircraft are not affected by the use of the devices and that during critical phases of flight and during emergencies, all passengers are aware of and able to follow crew instructions.

 

Quick Facts

  • Canada has an aviation safety record that remains one of the best in the world.
  • Passengers will soon be in a position to use portable electronic devices such as cameras, electronic games, tablets and computers during all phases of flights, provided their airline has met certain safety conditions.
  • As always, passengers who use transmitting portable electronic devices such as tablets, smartphones or e-readers, will need to ensure they are in a non-transmitting or flight mode before using them on an aircraft.“This is great news for air passengers, and an exciting day for the Canadian aviation industry. By collaborating with our aviation partners, we are able to offer airlines the tools they need to safely enable passengers to use portable electronic devices on airplanes, while still maintaining the highest standards of aviation safety.”Associated Links
  • The Honourable Lisa Raitt, Minister of Transport
  • Quote

BenQ Gaming Monitors revolutionized Boston’s PAX East 2014

The Boston Convention Centre will be showcasing BenQ's fantastic new gamin monitors including their latest "BumbleBee" monitor. It all begins April 11th. CP
The Boston Convention Centre will be showcasing BenQ’s fantastic new gamin monitors including their latest “BumbleBee” monitor. It all begins April 11th. CP

COSTA MESA, Calif. – BenQ America Corp., a globally renowned LED and gaming monitor expert, today announced its participation at PAX East 2014. The gaming event, which was sold out weeks ahead of opening, was  held at the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center (BCEC) from
April 11 to 13. The annual convention attracts more than 60,000 attendees and brings together vendors, pros, developers, and enthusiasts from all over the world to experience the latest in video game technology. BenQ sponsored two major gaming areas, as well as display a host of its highly acclaimed gaming monitors, featuring RevolutionEyes(TM) technology, at booth #1141.

Quoted ahead of opening Associate VP Bob Wudeck said: “We look forward to unveiling our latest gaming monitors at one of the country’s largest video game events. PAX East 2014 marks the debut of our newest RevolutionEyes professional gaming monitors, which have been designed to help gamers ConQuer the game with advanced features engineered exclusively to enhance game play.”

Now available on all new monitors, BenQ’s RevolutionEyes technology brings exceptional monitor performance and enhanced visual comfort across the entire gaming line. Led by BenQ’s market-leading ZeroFlicker(TM) innovation, the monitors eliminate backlight flickering at all brightness levels to reduce eye strain and allow gamers to spend longer periods engaged in fast-action play. Featuring “Low Blue Light” technology, BenQ monitors remove up to 70 percent of blue spectrum light to protect gamers’ eyes during extended periods of play without affecting picture quality. All BenQ gaming monitors feature BenQ’s Black eQualizer, which enables total gaming visibility by allowing players to adjust brightness without over-exposing white levels, revealing critical combat details with improved visibility in darkened areas.

A thing of beauty! The BenQ_XL2720Z
A thing of beauty! The BenQ_XL2720Z

On display at the BenQ booth was the new RL2460HT 24-inch LED backlit gaming monitor for high-speed PC and console gaming, which is perfect for RTS- and MOBA-style games, as well as fighting games. Co-developed with fighting game legend Justin “JWong” Wong of Evil Geniuses, the monitor’s new Fighting Mode enables gamers to highlight battle characters with special colors — improving focus and precision during high-stakes combat scenes. The RL2460HT features a built-in HDMI output to provide uncompromised streaming for head-to-head multiplayer gaming on a single screen. BenQ is also unleashing its stylish “bumblebee” black-and-yellow RL2240HE monitor. Specifically suited to RTS game play, the bold-looking 21.5-inch LED backlit display has been fine-tuned to provide the vital visibility and commands needed during strategy-led strikes. The fast-action RL series monitors provide blazing-fast 1ms GTG response times, height-adjustment stands, and other great features for optimized gaming.

Also on display, the new XL2720Z FPS 27-inch LED backlit gaming monitor offered gamers the freedom to custom-build their own personal gaming experiences. Equipped with gaming refresh rate optimization management (GROM), the monitor allows for refresh rate (100/120/144Hz), display resolution, and screen size customization. For even more control without compromising speed, gamers can customize and save display setting presets directly onto the monitor’s S Switch. This allows players to switch swiftly between customized settings using the stylish controller’s scroll button. For even greater convenience, the XL2720Z is height-adjustable and sports a carrying handle to transport the monitor to any LAN party or gaming competition.

BenQ continues to support the gaming community at PAX East 2014, where the company is sponsoring two freeplay areas — the PC and bring your own computer (BYOC) zones. The large PC freeplay area is designed to allow attendees to experience a wide array of the latest games on top-of-the-line gaming PCs, while the BYOC room is for those who bring their own machines to participate in large-scale LAN play on popular game titles.

Professional gamer Pobelter is a BenQ endorsee.
Professional gamer Pobelter is a BenQ endorsee.

At BenQ’s booth on April 11 and 12, professional gamer Pobelter, a member of pro-gaming team Evil Geniuses, was on hand to
sign autographs, pose for photos, and speak with attendees. The company also hosted the second part of its social media contest, announcing the winner of dinner for two with the Evil Geniuses’ League of Legends team.

For more information on the BenQ contest and PAX East 2014 event, follow @BenQAmerica and @Official_PAX on Twitter. Additional information on BenQ’s full line of gaming monitors is available at http://gaming.benq.com.

 

The Web Just Turned 25 This Week

Okay we know...technically the web has been around since the 1960's (Arpanet) and even we've been browsing the online world via BBS services since 1989 on an 'old' Atari 1020ST and land line phone access. (ahem) But for most of us the world wide web as we know it- complete with browsers and search engines turned 25 years old this week. CP
Okay we know…technically the web has been around since the 1960’s (Arpanet) and we’ve been browsing the online world via BBS services since 1989 on an ‘old’ Atari 1020ST and land line, but for most of us the world wide web as we know it- complete with browsers and search engines turned 25 years old this week. CP

Mountain View, CA  Some of us remember what the world was like before the web and have seen how much it’s changed things. Many younger people today have never known a world without the web.

Which are you? Choose the statement below that applies to you — then share it along with your memories of how the web has affected your life.

I remember the world before the web:

Google+: https://takeaction.withgoogle.com/Older-GooglePlus
Facebook: https://takeaction.withgoogle.com/Older-FB
Twitter: https://takeaction.withgoogle.com/Older-Twitter

I’ve never known the world without the web:

Google+: https://takeaction.withgoogle.com/Younger-GooglePlus
Facebook: https://takeaction.withgoogle.com/Younger-FB
Twitter: https://takeaction.withgoogle.com/Younger-Twitter

There’s no better way to celebrate the web’s 25th birthday than by sharing on the web how much it’s meant to all of our lives. More coming soon. For the Silo, Derek Slater /Google.

)

Live in the Future: Weiser’s ‘Smart Lock’ and app turns smartphones into home key

It won't be long before "Open Sesame" does the trick ;) CP
It won’t be long before “Open Sesame” does the trick 😉 CP

TORONTO -WeiserR, a leading brand of the Hardware & Home Improvement (HHI) division of Spectrum Brands Holdings (NYSE:SPB), answers consumer demand for both convenience and security with its Kevo smart lock.

The highly anticipated Bluetooth enabled deadbolt is now arriving at home improvement and electronics retailers across Canada. By simply installing Kevo and downloading the mobile app, your iPhone becomes your key. Convenient and versatile, Kevo gives owners the ability to unlock the door with their smartphone and a simple touch; send electronic keys (eKeys) to family, friends and service people; and receive notifications whenever a user enters or exits their door.

“Kevo is not just another lock, it represents a shift in lifestyle for busy homeowners. Whether keeping track of your teenage daughter, granting temporary access to a housecleaner or monitoring your front door activity while on vacation, Kevo redefines the meaning of smart, simple security,” said Mark Wallace, Senior Group Marketing Manager of Spectrum Brands – Hardware & Home Improvement. 

A Total Key Management Solution
Using the Kevo mobile app, homeowners can send eKeys to family, friends or service people, anywhere, anytime. Once an eKey is sent, recipients can simply download the mobile app, if they don’t already have it installed, keep their iPhone in their purse or pocket and unlock the door with a simple touch. With several levels of permissions, Kevo Owners and Administrators have authorization to send, delete and disable eKeys within seconds. After distributing eKeys, they can choose to receive notifications when a user locks or unlocks the door, for convenient home security management. Homeowners agree, eKeys are the answer to every-day challenges in key (and home security) management:

“Using Kevo is like living in the future. My new smart lock, and therefore my home, now magically recognizes me by touch. Being able to issue (and revoke) virtual keys to family members or service providers is priceless. Install was a breeze, even for a guy like me who’s never replaced a deadbolt, and only required a single screwdriver.” – David Zatz, blogger at “Zatz Not Funny”.

“I have two dogs that I walk and two children, ages four and two. I am always carrying the kids, groceries, my bags from work; holding the dog’s leashes, etc.,” said Kathy Z. of “3 Boys and a Dog” blog. “This device is invaluable to me because instead of fumbling for keys (that I inevitably drop), I can simply touch my lock with one finger and gain access to my home. I always have my phone on me, either in my pant pocket or in my purse, and I can just leave it in there, touch my Kevo and I am in. The convenience factor is huge!”

Weiser’s Kevo mobile app includes a simple interface that delivers much more than eKey management. After setting up a Kevo account, owners can customize and control everything through their app, including:

.         Managing eKeys and settings associated with each given lock;

.         Receiving notifications when a user enters or exits the door;

.         Monitoring lock activity and tracking user history;

.         Updating Kevo lock software directly from a smartphone;

.         Instant access to Kevo’s Help Center; and

.         Kevo web portal offers the same management features as the app via a browser.

 

Kevo combines UniKey Technologies, Inc.’s (UniKey) secure touch-to-open technology and Weiser’s 110 years of experience engineering and manufacturing residential door locks. This combination of expertise translates to unmatched convenience and security features that include:

.         Inside-outside technology – Kevo offers patent-pending intelligent positioning technology that detects whether an authorized user is inside or outside of the home before granting access, to help prevent unauthorized entry.

.         Touch-to-open convenience – Users can keep their phones in their pocket or purse. No more fumbling for keys, simply touch the lock to open for the ultimate in convenience.

.         Kevo fob – No smartphone? No problem. Users can enjoy the same touch to open convenience with the fob. A single fob can be authorized to work with up to 25 Kevo locks.

.         Multiple levels of encryption – Kevo uses multiple levels of encryption to increase digital security and is continually reviewed by industry leading independent security experts.

.         SmartKeyR technology – Weiser’s patented SmartKey re-key technology provides superior security and re-key convenience unlike any other smart lock on the market.

“History has shown that extremely powerful solutions that deliver a simple and elegant user experience are what evolve industries. Combining forces with Weiser, we are able to deliver a complete, mass market product that will truly revolutionize the way we gain access to our homes,” said Phil Dumas, founder, UniKey.

Compatability, Pricing and Availability
Kevo is compatible with smartphones that support Bluetooth Smart Ready/Bluetooth 4.0 hardware and have the Kevo mobile app available. The app is currently available for iPhoneR 4S, 5, 5c and 5s, as well as the fifth generation iPodR touch, third generation or higher iPadR and iPad mini. The app will become available for additional platforms such as Android, pending software upgrades, to fully support Bluetooth Smart Ready/Bluetooth 4.0 technology. Homeowners can purchase their Kevo deadbolt for the suggested price of $249.99 at a wide range of retailers nationwide. For additional information on what is included in the Kevo package and a list of on-line retailers, please email marketingdirector@thesilo.ca .

Most Exciting Sci-Tech Electronics Of 2013

Alex Hillsberg SciTech Writer

2013 will be remembered for many things, but in the world of consumer electronics it will be remembered as a year when techpreneurs proved that innovation lives and the spirit of enterprise still burns strong.

The technologies propping up the gadgets on display in this infographic are a product of incremental development, iterations of ideas that have been gestating for many years and are slowly being integrated into products that we use daily.

Take fingerprint authentication, for instance, on the new iPhone 5s. For close to ten years, the technology has been commercially viable but Apple made the bold move of finally putting an end to the forgotten password woes of its customers.

HTC finally incorporated the technology Full HD displays on a smartphone with amazing results. The images on HTC one remain unmatched for clarity and color accuracy.

Leap Motion made a leap of faith by investing in technology that changes the way users interact with their devices. Instead of the keyboard, mouse, or screen, we can now use gestures to make devices do our bidding. All for less than a hundred dollars with technology packed into a device no bigger than a bubble gum pack.

Google Glass is setting imaginations on fire with its unique first-person perspective for recording visual images. Is it ethical to photos and videos
of people without their permission and without them noticing that you’re actually doing it? Will the technology be abused? Will it change the way users live their lives?

For many, the questions won’t be as complex or thought-provoking. It might simply be, “Will I get an Xbox One for Christmas?”

Silo sci-tech writer Alex Hillsberg.

Top Sci Tech Gear of 2013WEB