Wednesday 8 November 2017

Resonance Audio: Multi Platform Spatial Audio at Scale

Sound is a part of the world around us, without it or the ability to hear it we feel an emotional disconnect with the world. The way we experience things and the world around us is all dependent on our senses and how we perceive it.

Google’s new product Resonance Audio brings 3D sound to our ears just from using headphones. This venture opens up new possibilities for VR, AR and 360- degree videos.

When we listen to music from our phones or any other device we always hear sound as it is, meaning no account is taken of the distance between sounds, the directionality, frequency of sounds or the way we are facing some sounds. But with Resonance Audio we will be able to establish distances between sounds and more. Basically it means that we would feel as if we were in the same place the sounds are transmitting from.
 
What is Resonance Audio?
 
Resonance Audio is a tool that brings 3D sound to our ears in other words it is a tool that gives us the feeling of being in the exact location the sound is transmitting from. It can be used over all platforms and is said to be even compatible with IOS, android and Linux.
 
What brought about Resonance Audio?
 
Resonance Audio was initially thought of for VR, AR and 360-degree video. In VR, bringing realistic sounds to the platform was difficult as it put a lot of pressure on the hardware and the results were never up to the mark. With Resonance Audio, there are no problems on hardware and it can still deliver performance in the interactive environments.
 
How is Resonance Audio made?
 
Resonance Audio uses Ambisonics technique to create the realistic 3D sound Quality. What this technique really does is to bring in sounds coming from all directions while at the same time taking account of their frequency, distance, space, the individual’s position with respect to the sound and timing of the sounds. You can then hear all this from your headphones. It basically performs the analysis of the brain in discerning and analyzing sounds.

Ambisonics brings in sound from all directions without compromising on quality.
 
How is Resonance Audio different from 3D Spatialization?
 
Resonance Audio is different from 3D Spatialization in the sense that it not only takes in to account the directionality of sounds but also their frequency, distance, position of the individual in relation to the sound and more. 3D spatialization takes in to account only the different directions in which sounds come.

Resonance Audio is likely to be a game changer for musicians, software developers, gamers, music enthusiasts and more. Its ability to be used across all platforms from IOS, Android and Linux also gives it an additional quality. If it really proves to be as processor friendly as Google claims and is really capable of providing quality 3D sounds to users, It could mean its wider adoption in all systems and technologies.
 

Friday 3 November 2017

DeformWear: Deformation Input on Tiny Wearable Devices

DeformWear
We have all seen various smart- somethings entering the market whether it be a smart watch or virtual glasses or wireless headphones, they all have one thing in common. They require an app on a smart phone or tab or some other device with not only WiFi connectivity but also a Bluetooth connection.
Using such devices at times therefore can be a handful while inputing all data into a phone or some other device. The world of science now brings DeformWear. DeformWear can be thought of as a tiny device the size of a pea that allows you to toggle data onto your gadget.

How was DeformWear made? 

Scientists felt the need for a tiny device that could be used fast and discreetly to handle devices when gadgets such as the Apple watch came out. Their screens were so small that using the device made it impractical for many people. So DeformWear was born. It is a gadget no less than the size of a pea that can be moved in all directions, pressed, pinched, pushed right, left, down and up.

How DeformWear was thought of: 

Researchers at Saarland University tested smart phone gestures with the use of a person’s skin and found that many of them pinched and pushed to the side to access smart phone apps. This study combined with sensors that were initially thought of for robots led to the creation of a body carried device the DeformWear.

Functioning of DeformWear: 

DeformWear has a diameter of 10 millimeters and can be handled just like a balloon but minus the bursting part. DeformWear comes with a sensor that then allows an individual to maneuver it in all directions.

Testing of DeformWear: 

DeformWear was made into a charm, bracelet and ring. The device was then tested on multiple people for different applications while using a smart watch and virtual glasses discreetly and fast. Later on it was used on smart televisions and to play music all without the need to look at the screen. The results from the testing of DeformWear were all found to be successful. DeformWear uses the fine motor functioning of fingers along with push and press functioning to give desired results.

Researchers at Saarland University hope to use this device quickly and discreetly when handling devices with no screen or when the device has too small a screen. With the introduction of DeformWear, the world can be ready for even smaller gadgets which can be handled with DeformWear. Also with the development of DeformWear, there may also be different ways in which the device can be worn. At present it is tested only as a charm, bracelet and ring.

The Motorola RAZR Flip Phone is BACK and Renamed as Binatone Blade

Motorola RAZR Flip Phone
THE PROTOTYPE OF MOTOROLA RAZR FLIP PHONE WILL MAKE YOU WONDERSTRUCK

The digital world or the world of cellular technology are always on the news. Well, Binatone firm is trying to take us to the older days but with an improvisation this time. They are planning to bring a spectacular and upgraded version of the Motorola RAZR flip phone which would be termed as Blade. Already there has been images of the prototype that is going under some modifications. One tech journalist supposed to have got that phone in eBay though it is an earlier version. The images were shared by him and many other thoughts related to the phone.

THE ICONIC MODEL

The gorgeous black phone is designed to give a stiff competition to the other tech giants like the Samsung or iPhone. The recent reports have stated that the current generation teens are now going for the old-fashioned phones as they want to take a break from the social media which has hooked them to the screen only and no physical conversation with the people nearby. The price that was revealed by the tech journalist is only 22.95 euro. The model was up for sale for the testing purpose and he was lucky enough to grab the offer. The Motorola Motorola RAZR flip phone was a craze when the iconic phone was launched way back in the year 2003 and the price was a too high at that time. The price used to range close to the 800 euros.

THE MANUFACTURING

The Motorola RAZR flip phone was built a string and determined engineers who used to work overtime in order to bring glory for the company. They used in a secret manner and all they did this without the knowledge of the managers. This certainly changed the phase of the iconic and the prestigious company. It is reported that there are three variations in terms of the colours which are red, black and rose gold. The -Motorola RAZR flip phone was a huge success at that times with the global stars also going for it. The new one has stuck to the original design with some gorgeous finish and colour designs.
THE SPECIFICATIONS
The Motorola RAZR flip phone was sold more than 100 million units and it was one of the top phones at that time. The phone was a metal one where as the new Blade is a plastic finish. The latest one has not got that satisfactory snap of the earlier version. The keys are fine in the new Binatone Blade. If the weight is taken into comparison, then the new Blade is much lighter weighing only 67g. It is very slim and comes with 2 SIM card slots. There is an inbuilt music player and much sophisticated softwares as compared to the previous ones. The phone is small and light which is very easy to handle and carry. The slim feature will look even cooler when you hold it in your hands.

5 Benefits of Asset Tracking for Facility Management

Asset Tracking
Asset tracking is a flexible management strategy that should be implemented by business for effective facility management and outcomes. Enterprises that invest in asset tracking of their portable and fixed asset record higher returns compared to enterprises that don’t. Apart from improved asset management, asset tracking simplifies the tedious monitoring process and ensures proper and timely allocation of assets during the firm operations

Here are 5 benefits a firm enjoys through asset tracking for improved and effective facility management.

1. Asset Location

Developments in asset tracking software have enabled accessing of real-time information on the location of the specific assets. These assets could be in the firm premises or in transits. A delivery company access to the location of a certain asset can note if it arrived at the required destination and enables record keeping for future reference. Asset location has been a major factor to the growth of freight investments. One can order cargo, delivery services, and shipment services online and track the movement of the freight.

One should consider the best tracking software that provides a wide range tracking coverage for different assets. A good example is when you Track your assets with TrackAbout Software, you are able to select from their wide tracking services on different assets. These assets range from delicate gas cylinders and medical equipment to containers and tools.

2. Timely Replacement/Fix Decisions

Asset tracking enables setting of specific performance limits in different used assets in the farm. It tracks and gives warning signals to the operators when facility operational limits are exceeded. The warning signals enable timely replacement of assets or fixing the assets to their normal operational status. These prevent asset destruction hence continuity in performance. A good example is monitoring oil leakage in transits vehicles. A warning signal will be generated and the driver will respond by the timely fixing of the problem to prevent later severe repercussions. Through early warning services, one will never be surprised by machinery breakdown. It gives the manager the advantage of being a step ahead.

3. Detailed report on equipment performance

Equipment performance information is simply acquired through effective equipment tracking. Equipment performance is a major factor in why facility management is important. Through the easily accessible history records available on the website, the management of a business can easily identify incidents where equipment faced downtime, determine the root cause, and apply the necessary resolutions. This ensures improved future performance hence saves money and time.

4. Improved Purchasing Decisions

Through proper evaluation of asset tracking reports, a firm will be well informed on their immediate and future purchases. When the tracking report reveals worn out parts of equipment, the management will carry out an early purchase of relevant spare parts. This will give the management ample time to get the best spare parts instead of panic purchases and impulse buying.

5. Accuracy in Repair

Asset tracking reviles the specific part of a building or a machine that requires repair for continual in functionality. It enables the management to get the right equipment and the right contractors to repair the issue. These save time as the contractors know the specific focal area.

In conclusion, asset tracking plays a major role in ensuring proper facility management. The 5 major benefits derived from asset tracking include; asset location, timely decision making in fixing and replacement of facilities, a detailed report on equipment performance record, improved purchasing decisions, and accuracy in repair.

Nintendo Switch Version 4.0 Update

Nintendo Switch Update:

Users keen on purchasing the Nintendo Switch would find this update useful. Recently the Version 4.0 of the operating system of the console had gone live and along with it included surplus of important new features, fan have been coming since the release of Nintendo.

1. Record Clips of Games

Earlier there was a possibility of capturing in-game screenshots though the latest update would permit users to record video clips from their experience. On holding the button beneath the directional pad of the Switch, the device is capable of capturing the last 30 seconds of the play in an editable video.

2. Transfer Data Between Consoles

If the user has been sharing a Nintendo Switch with someone and tends to have their own console, there is a possibility of transferring and save data to the new device. Nintendo explained that transferring user information and save data, enables one to move the user profile together with its associated save data as well as Nintendo eShop purchased from one Nintendo Switch console to another. Data can be moved one user at a time which means that one can pick and opt which user’s data one would prefer to move and which one needs to be retained on the source console. The overall procedure can be accomplished with 10 easy guidelines which have been provided at the site of Nintendo.

3. Pre-Order/Pre-Load Games

The waiting period for a video game to come out and over it the longer waiting period for it to load on to your system before one could get to play can be very daunting. Taking into consideration the frustration due to it, Nintendo has made it possible to prepay and pre-load games much ahead of its release. Take for instance the game of Super Mario odyssey. The game was scheduled for release on October 27 but if one intends purchasing it from the online eShop of Nintendo before its release it can be downloaded and ready to play the minute it tends to go on sale to the public.

4. Amazing New User Icons

Every user would desire the skill to further modify their profile and the latest update has been providing several more opportunities. Users now have the option of selecting from 12 new Super Mario odyssey as well as The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild icons for their user profile. Though it is only a small change, additional options would always be welcome.

5. Provision for Wireless USB Headsets

Some of the Reddit users have observed that the update tends to come with a provision for USB devices though it might not be a feature which has not been listed on the official list of alterations. All that one needs to do is to just plug the dongle of the device in the Switch dock and one would observe a new volume slider which will only function when the console is docked. There is a possibility of utilising the feature when the Switch is handheld by plugging the receiver in a USB-C adaptor.