Remember when Verizon had the best network and the worst phones? Actually, you don't have to remember, since that's still (subjectively) true right now, but not for long—the Big Red's upcoming Android lineup is looking outrageously promising, with the Hero, Sholes, Droid, Calgary, and now a mysterious new handset called the HTC Desire. We spied the name on a Verizon inventory list a month and a half ago, and now we've got a photo of it—and it looks, well, sort of like the Hero. It's clearly boasting HTC's Sense UI and we can very faintly make out a trackball. The only other thing we're pretty sure about is that the Desire will be a touchscreen-only phone: No keyboard here, folks. Honestly it looks a lot like the Hero, but it may have some distinguishing feature we just don't know about yet. [Boy Genius Report]

Yahoo is getting ready to launch a new news blog, which will consist of both original reporting and linking out to other sites, because that's how journalism is done nowadays. They've recruited Andrew Golis, publisher of Talking Points Memo, and will incorporate the new blog into the already popular Yahoo News page. Why's it in Remainders? Because I really, really doubt anyone bothered to read this far into a post about a Yahoo news blog. [Giga Om]

Vuzix's new Wrap 310 video glasses, which begin shipping today, are much in the same vein as Vuzix's previous products, only slightly less silly-looking. This time, they've opted for the "dorky Oakleys" look, while giving a 16:9 picture that appears the same size as a 55-inch picture at ten feet. It also includes, in case you forget, noise-isolating earbuds and compatibility with a whole mess of different video sources (including all iPhone and iPod with video models). It ended up in Remainders because who wears video glasses besides that Reading Raindbow guy? As a side note, sort of, did you guys know that Reading Rainbow has left this mortal coil? Usually I scoff at old people who get teary-eyed about the way things used to be (ha, newspapers!) but seriously you guys we will have to officially cede the title of Greatest Country in the Universe if our bright-eyed children don't have access to Reading Rainbow. [Vuzix, Videogum]

AOL hinted, at the Web 2.0 Summit today, that they've got something big up their sleeves. "We have been working on something for the last three months that I think is a fairly substantial shift in our technology," said Tim Armstrong. CNET surmises that this big shift is something to do with their extensive roster of blogs, since Armstrong mentioned AOL has been poaching writers from respectable publications like the Wall Street Journal and ESPN. Thrilling stuff, you guys. If you have to ask why this is in Remainders, congratulations for not falling asleep already. [CNET]

Indeed, not looking like Geordi is a good thing, but the Wrap 310 also features true 16x9 widescreen, twin high resolution displays, noise isolating earphones and compatibility with almost any video player—including the iPod and iPhone. Along those lines, Vuzix notes that the Wrap 310 is also upgradeable with an expansion port that can be used to accommodate changes in player design. Pricing and release information have not been announced.

Vuzix Launches Stylish Wrap™ 310 Widescreen Video Eyewear

Newly updated, sunglass-style form factor improves comfort and style while delivering
true 16 x 9 widescreen video

Experience the technology first hand at the 2009 ShowStoppers for the Digital Holidays
September 16th in New York and the 2009 Tokyo Games Show September 24th – 27th

Rochester, NY – September 15, 2009 – Vuzix Corporation, the leader in video eyewear for the consumer,
defense and low vision markets, is thrilled to launch the Wrap 310. The game-changing Wrap 310 challenges
the status quo of traditional video viewing devices by looking and feeling like normal sunglasses. The Wrap
310 will feature twin high-resolution video displays, project a 55-inch screen and include removable noise
isolating earphones. Powered for up to 6 hours on just 2 AA batteries, the Wrap 310 will accept video from
almost any video player, including the iPod and iPhone.

Whether you are an executive business traveler or want an immersive console gaming experience, the Wrap
310 will get the job done in style. With composite video input and optional VGA and component compatibility
adapters, the Wrap 310 is the most versatile pair of video eyewear on the market. Additionally, as the first
video eyewear designed for upgradeability, the Wrap 310 will feature an expansion port designed to provide
the product with near limitless compatibility. In addition to the soon to be available VGA and Component
adapters, Vuzix has plans for exciting accessories designed to keep the Wrap 310 on the cutting edge.

Please see a complete list of compatible devices below.

"The Wrap 310 is the first device to merge the look of video eyewear and traditional sunglasses into one," said
Vuzix CEO, Paul Travers. "We are excited to be a part of the mobile video revolution and are thrilled to be
globally unveiling the Wrap 310 at Showstoppers for the Digital Holidays and the Tokyo Game Show," added
Travers.

The Wrap 310 also features an improved on-screen user interface, included independent focus adjustments for
users with corrective lenses and still features compatibility with all major 3D video formats. Users now have
the option to select various lens colors to personalize their Wrap 310.

Compatible Devices Include:

• All iPod/iPhone models

• Portable DVD players
• Mobile phones with video output
• PCs and laptops*
• Televisions
• DVD/Blu-Ray players
• Portable media players

*Requires VGA output

[Vuzix]

Current customers can upgrade for $40, whereas new users will be able to get them bundled directly with their Vuzix AV230XL systems for $200. There's no guarantee that you'll get mugged if you wear these things on the subway, but broadcasting that you have both an expensive phone AND an expensive pair of video goggles doesn't help your chances. [Vuzix]

The hardware itself is just a camera that sits in front of the eyewear, and feeds a signal back to your eyes. The magic happens when an app is programmed to recognize certain objects, and know to augment what your seeing with 3D visuals on top.

This resulted in four demos at GDC, developed by Metaio: A knight and dragon fighting in a Lego scene, An alien invasion on top of a magazine page, digital doodlings on top of a specially marked surface using the optional PhasAR controller and a virtual shooting range, where the PhasAR is clipped into a gun-like shell controller. While the headset itself still feels pretty clunky and dated, the new camera tech has a lot of potential.

Both the knight and dragon demo, and the alien invasion demo are similar in that they add 3D animations on top of a predetermined object. However, the knight and dragon demo has 3D spatial recognition that knows exactly how the legos are built in all directions. If you navigate the camera away from these objects, the graphics and animations disappear. Move back on the scene, and within a couple of seconds, the eye candy reappears. You can even use the PhasAR to trigger animations. It's really cool to see the tech used in a more consumer-centric manner.

The digital doodler demo makes use of specially marked spaces that are reminiscent of QR barcodes, and when it sees that space, it knows to start superimposing doodles on the screen. You hold the PhasAR like a pen, and start moving it in the air, and as you do that, the screen is littered with your handiwork. I'm sure we'll see a bunch of virtual graffiti kiosks popping up around this eventually.

The fourth demo is the virtual shooting range, where more of those QR tiles are placed in the distance, the PhasAR is clipped into its gun shell, and in your headset is a 3D shooting range, where you can blast away to your heart's content. While this is essentially the same as playing a shooting game on the Wii (with something on your face), it's neat to think you could hypothetically set this up anywhere and casually pop a couple caps.

Like most of these hardware tech demos at GDC, developer support is key to the CamAR and PhasAR having any relevance to consumers. Vuzix says they'll begin pushing the hardware to developers in 30 days and have the product to market this summer, which will run on most computers released in the last 4-5 years. They expect both products to retail for under $100 apiece, and will also have a CamAR/VR920 bundle for those lacking the headset. [Vuzix]

Vuzix to introduce the World's First Consumer Augmented Reality Video Eyewear at 2009 Game Developers Conference

See this groundbreaking technology at Booth Number 6420 NH

London, Wednesday March 25: Vuzix Corporation, the leader in video eyewear for the mainstream consumer, defence and low vision markets, will showcase a game-changing Augmented Reality Accessory Kit for the popular VR920 Virtual Reality Video iWear.

Partnering with metaio, Inc., a world leader in augmented reality software solutions, Vuzix will demonstrate at the 2009 GDC how a simple printed page can be brought to life with 3-D animated characters that literally pop out of the book and fire breathing dragons from a fantasy tale can swoop overhead.

Vuzix AR Accessory Kit consists of two main features:

· CamAR™, a clip-on USB camera that mounts onto a pair of Vuzix Video iWear. The CamAR not only allows the user to see through to the real world but is also designed to accurately track objects and the user's position in 3-dimensional space.

· PhasAR™, a wireless augmented reality input controller is designed to be used in unison with the CamAR™. The PhasAR™ allows users to interact with virtual, mixed and augmented reality worlds with a revolutionary 6 degree of freedom tracking system that lets the computer know exactly where the user is touching in the virtual and real worlds. Depending on the application, the PhasAR™ can become anything from a powerful virtual magic wand to a 3-D virtual paint brush. The PhasAR™ enables powerful 2-D like mouse support in order to effortlessly control virtual objects in 3-D space.

Together, these new devices allow the user to perceive and interact with the real world in ways they have never dreamed of before.

"This capability, known as Augmented Reality (AR), will open up new applications in the gaming, education and business sectors," said Vuzix CEO, Paul Travers. "The applications for gaming and education will range from books that come alive to interactive worlds with 3-D characters that materialise right in your living room."

"You have to ask yourself," said Travers, "why play video games on your flat panel when it can be brought right into your living room?"

If you are visiting GDC, please visit booth number 6420 NH for the opportunity to experience this technology for the first time.

Additionally, we are also happy to set up interviews where available for an in-depth review of this technology. Images available on request.

Come and meet us at The Gadget Show Live at the Birmingham NEC in the UK on the 17-19th April to try out the Vuzix iWear range which offers a big-screen experience from a device that fits in your pocket. Connect with one of many mobile devices and you can enjoy a virtual screen of up to 62" for all of your mobile content including 3D.

So what is "see-thru" quantum optics anyway?

The stylish Wrap 920AV functions with any media playing device with a video output and projects a virtual 60-inch screen, as viewed from 9-feet. The state-of-the-art lens technology also allows users for the first time to view 3D video content while seeing and interacting with the real world. This incredible blend of reality and computer generated content will transform the world of portable video while opening up the consumer to previously impossible “location aware” applications. An optional 6-Degree of Freedom tracking sensor and/or Stereo Camera Pair will enable users to upgrade their Wrap 920AV to experience virtual, augmented and mixed reality environments.

If the glasses work as advertised, interacting with 3D digital content within a real world landscape might be a big step towards decent, workable virtual reality. Plus, the battery life has been bumped up to around six hours (not to mention a significant reduction in the Geordi factor of the design). The glasses are slated for release in Spring of 2009 at an undisclosed price.

Update: Resolution and aspect ratio are consistent with previous Vuzix versions at 640X480 and 4:3.

Vuzix Announces World’s First Fashionable Sunglass-Style Video Eyewear with Revolutionary “See-Thru” Quantum Optics

Provides a 60-inch private video display complete with Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality capabilities and built-in noise-isolating earphones all in less than 3 ounces

Rochester, NY – January 5th, 2009 – Vuzix Corporation is thrilled to announce a ground-breaking addition to the video eyewear market: the Wrap 920AV. As the demand for mobile access to digital entertainment and information skyrockets, Vuzix has once again pushed the envelope. This portable big screen solution with Vuzix’ proprietary Quantum optics technology allows for a “see-thru” video experience in the form of a functional pair of sunglasses and is upgradeable with optional accessories.

The stylish Wrap 920AV functions with any media playing device with a video output and projects a virtual 60-inch screen, as viewed from 9-feet. The state-of-the-art lens technology also allows users for the first time to view 3D video content while seeing and interacting with the real world. This incredible blend of reality and computer generated content will transform the world of portable video while opening up the consumer to previously impossible “location aware” applications. An optional 6-Degree of Freedom tracking sensor and/or Stereo Camera Pair will enable users to upgrade their Wrap 920AV to experience virtual, augmented and mixed reality environments.

“The Wrap 920AV will not just change the portable video industry, but how consumers view and interact with information,” said Vuzix CEO Paul Travers. “From watching a Civil War video reproduction battle reenactment on the actual battleground to walking through the streets of New York City with an animated virtual tour guide, the possibilities are endless,” added Travers.

“As listed in 2008 at the Gartner Emerging Trends and Technologies Roadshow, Augmented Reality promises a paradigm shift in how consumers interact with news, entertainment and information,” said Vuzix Consumer Division Product Manager Ron Haidenger. “The Wrap 920AV is the first product at a consumer price point to deliver this game changing technology to the masses,” added Haidenger.

Additionally, Vuzix will be offering low cost optional prescription lens inserts to provide the perfect solution for consumers wearing prescription eyeglasses. A patent pending electronic Inter-Pupillary Distance system enables eye separation adjustment, ensuring that all users will have an optimal viewing experience. Amazingly, the entire system weighs less than 3 ounces.

The Wrap 920AV’s features include:

• Virtual 60-inch screen viewed from 9-feet
• 2D and 3D video formats
• Quantum Optics Technology
• Twin high-resolution AMLCD displays
• Ultra low power electronics
• High-quality noise-isolating and removable comfort fit earphones
• Up to 6 hours of battery life on two AA batteries
• On screen display settings control
• For use with or without eyeglasses
• Optional prescription lens inserts
• Optional Bluetooth 6-Degree of Freedom head tracking system
• Optional USB-powered Stereo Camera Pair

Compatible devices include:

• All iPod/iPhone models with video output
• Portable media players
• Video cameras
• Cellular phones with video output
• Console video game systems
• Digital cameras
• DVD players
• PCs & laptops with S-Video

The Wrap 920AV will be available on Vuzix.com and through various other distribution channels in Spring 2009.

Apparently, the Wrao 920AV will be "the first to actually function as sunglasses or portable video eyewear. It’ll combine virtual reality (VR) capabilities as well as augmented reality (AR) features." Holy crap that is awesome. We have enjoyed Vuzix products in the past, but these things have us giddy with excitement. [Vuzix]

Vuzix Announces iWear® AV310 Widescreen, The First-Ever Widescreen Personal Video Eyewear

The iWear ® AV310 Widescreen has a 16:9 aspect ratio, providing the user with a virtual 52’ home theater experience in 2D and stunning 3D video formats.

Rochester, NY – September 16, 2008 – Vuzix Corporation is thrilled to announce their latest innovation to the Video Eyewear market; iWear® AV310 Widescreen. This first-ever consumer iWear with a true widescreen 16:9 aspect ratio giving users a true home movie theater feel. The AV310 projects a virtual 52’ screen from 9-feet and will run for five full hours on a single AA battery. Additionally, the AV310 offers independent focus adjustment, adjustable earbuds and nosepiece for unmatched long term comfort. Users can also expect improved compatibility, as the AV310 is compatible with all NTSC or PAL devices with a video output. Compatible devices include:

• All iPod models
• Portable media players
• Video cameras
• Cellular phones with video output
• Gaming consoles
• Digital cameras
• DVD players

“We are committed to providing our customers with the latest innovation in this exciting category and are delighted to provide the world’s first and only widescreen video eyewear,” said Vuzix CEO Paul Travers. “The revolutionary iWear® AV310 Widescreen is the ideal choice for the mobile consumer who’s craving a way to significantly enhance their portable viewing experience,” added Travers.

The AV310’s features include:

• Virtual 52’ screen viewed from 9-feet
• Full 16:9 Widescreen Aspect Ratio
• Independent +2 to -5 diopter focus, providing individual adjustment for each eye
• Twin high-resolution LCD displays from Kopin Corporation
• “Vuzix’ 3D” watermark compliant
• Removable and comfort fit earbuds
• Adjustable, hypoallergenic nosepiece
• AccuTilt™ viewer with 15 degrees of tilt adjustment
• Up to 5 hours of battery life on one AA battery
• On screen display settings control
• For use with or without eyeglasses
• MSRP $249.95

The AV310 will be available via Brookstone, SkyMall, MicroCenter, Hammacher Schlemmer and Vuzix.com.

That means users can engage in 4 player co-op splitscreen games with each headset displaying only their specific in-game view. So, peeking in on what your opponent is doing while playing a co-op FPS would be a thing of the past. If that sounds cool, you won't have to wait long to get your hands on one. The device is expected to be released later this month for a price that has yet to be determined. [Vuzix via IGN]