PC World Philippines

Logitech to stream video to iPads, iPhones

By Fei on February 17, 2011

By Stephen Lawson
February 17, 2011

SAN FRANCISCO – In a move that underscores the importance of both mobile devices and video in staying connected within enterprises, Logitech is extending its LifeSize video streaming system to iPads, iPhones and iPods.

Video is coming into more enterprises as a communication tool even while more employees are relying on mobile devices. Cisco, Polycom and other vendors have committed themselves to reaching those mobile users with video, a task that requires the content to be adapted to different screen sizes and processing capabilities.

Logitech is starting to tackle this problem with the latest version of software for its LifeSize Video Center appliance, a platform for distributing live and recorded streams such as training sessions, executive messages and company meetings. Logitech began with Apple iOS because of the large installed base of such devices, but the company is looking at future offerings for Android, BlackBerry and other platforms, said Mary Miller, director of product marketing.

Video Center is designed strictly for one-way, one-to-many distribution of video. Logitech is not extending its two-way videoconferencing system to mobile devices yet, though it continues to look at the need for that capability. LifeSize users on the road have to use laptops for videoconferencing.

Logitech is bringing video streaming to iOS devices through the Web browser rather than an application. Logitech has verified the software with native iOS browsers, said Travis McCollum, a Logitech product manager.

Companies can record videos or initiate live streams on LifeSize endpoints such as the LifeSize 220 Series at their facilities, with resolutions up to 720p. The content is transcoded within the endpoint for different devices on which it may be viewed, including laptops, desktops, large displays and iOS devices.

The LifeSize Video Center Version 1.2 software includes a mechanism for automatically changing the bit rate of a stream for certain types of clients when they are detected on the network. Using the right bit rate for the network and device can eliminate the need for buffering, Miller said. Administrators can set up as many as four different bit rates and assign those to particular types of devices based on policies.

This “automatic adaptive streaming,” as well as being able to stream to iOS devices, sets LifeSize Video Center apart from other systems in its class, including ones from Polycom and Cisco, Miller said.

Polycom said its Polycom Video Media Center supports multiple video formats, including for mobile devices, for on-demand streaming. The company plans to offer adaptive bit rates for live streaming later this year. Cisco offers automatic transcoding and optimization of streams for a wide range of mobile devices, including the Apple iOS lines, on its higher-end Media Experience Engine appliance.

Logitech, better known for peripherals than for major enterprise systems, agreed to acquire LifeSize Communications for US$405 million in 2009.

The updated software is set to become available next month. LifeSize Video Center is available globally for a list price of US$29,999.

Logitech rolls out wireless mouse-keyboard combo

By Fei on September 6, 2010

Logitech recently introduced the Logitech Wireless Combo MK520, a full-size mouse-and-keyboard combination featuring Logitech Advanced 2.4 GHz connectivity. The tiny Logitech Unifying receiver is small enough to stay in a laptop when the user is on the go and wirelessly connects both the included mouse and keyboard to the computer, so both are ready to use whenever they are needed. In addition, the user can easily add another compatible mouse, keyboard, or number pad – without the hassle of multiple USB receivers.

The Unifying receiver delivers Logitech Advanced 2.4 GHz wireless connectivity that keeps the user connected with virtually no delays or dropouts at a range of up to 10 meters. It includes 128-bit AES keyboard encryption, one of the highest levels of security currently available.

Meanwhile, the full-sized mouse allows the user to work comfortably even over long hours, thanks to its contoured design with soft rubber side grips. The mouse has a one-year battery life, and a high-performance laser that enables smooth tracking on just about any surface.

The concave design and softly rounded edges of the quiet, low-profile Logitech Incurve keys, on the other hand, make it easier to glide from key to key. The keyboard has a three-year battery life and also incorporates one-touch media controls so the user can mute the computer or skip to the next song instantly without using the mouse.

The Logitech Media Combo MK520 is available at a suggested retail price of P2,799 at all authorized retailers nationwide.

Logitech announces 2 new multimedia speakers with 360° sound

By Fei on June 18, 2010

June 18, 2010

Logitech, a manufacturer of personal peripherals specializing in PC navigation, Internet communications, digital music, home entertainment control, gaming and wireless devices, recently announced additions to its line of multimedia speakers. The Swiss company unveiled two new systems with 360-degree sound – the Logitech Speaker System Z323 and the System Z523.

Unlike standard PC speakers that use forward-firing drivers, the two new Logitech multimedia speaker systems feature 360-degree sound, or omnidirectional acoustics, which creates a substantially wider sweet spot – a helpful feature for users who often move their computers around. With speaker drivers that face forward and backwards in each satellite, these four new speakers are designed to transmit sound more consistently over a wider range of space.

The Logitech Speaker System Z523 has two sleek satellites and a 6.5-inch down-firing subwoofer, which delivers deep lows for rich bass. Carrying a suggested retail price of P4,750, it has 40 watts (RMS) of power, enabling it to fill a room with bold, dynamic sound. But it also has convenient on-speaker controls so the user can quickly turn down the volume.

For audiophiles who don’t need the walls to shake but still want good bass, the Logitech Speaker System Z323 is the ideal setup. It has 30 watts (RMS) of power and a ported, down-firing subwoofer. It is available at a suggested retail price of P2,650. Both the Logitech Z523 and Z323 multimedia speakers include an integrated dual RCA jack and a 3.5-millimeter for easy connection to headphones, a Logitech Squeezebox network music player, a gaming console, a DVD player or an iPod.

Logitech announces 2 new multimedia speakers with 360° sound

By Fei on June 11, 2010

June 11, 2010

Logitech, a manufacturer of personal peripherals specializing in PC navigation, Internet communications, digital music, home entertainment control, gaming and wireless devices, recently announced additions to its line of multimedia speakers. The Swiss company unveiled two new systems with 360-degree sound – the Logitech Speaker System Z323 and the System Z523.

Unlike standard PC speakers that use forward-firing drivers, the two new Logitech multimedia speaker systems feature 360-degree sound, or omnidirectional acoustics, which creates a substantially wider sweet spot – a helpful feature for users who often move their computers around. With speaker drivers that face forward and backwards in each satellite, these four new speakers are designed to transmit sound more consistently over a wider range of space.

The Logitech Speaker System Z523 has two sleek satellites and a 6.5-inch down-firing subwoofer, which delivers deep lows for rich bass. Carrying a suggested retail price of P4,750, it has 40 watts (RMS) of power, enabling it to fill a room with bold, dynamic sound. But it also has convenient on-speaker controls so the user can quickly turn down the volume.

For audiophiles who don’t need the walls to shake but still want good bass, the Logitech Speaker System Z323 is the ideal setup. It has 30 watts (RMS) of power and a ported, down-firing subwoofer. It is available at a suggested retail price of P2,650. Both the Logitech Z523 and Z323 multimedia speakers include an integrated dual RCA jack and a 3.5-millimeter for easy connection to headphones, a Logitech Squeezebox network music player, a gaming console, a DVD player or an iPod.

Logitech to buy HD video company

By Jon on November 11, 2009

By Nancy Gohring
IDG News Service
November 11, 2009

Logitech plans to acquire LifeSize Communications, a company that makes HD video communications equipment, for US$405 million in cash, the companies said Tuesday.

Logitech, whose video business is focused mainly on Web cams, hopes the deal will allow it to offer video communications systems for other settings besides the desktop, it said. LifeSize targets a wide range of customers including enterprises that want installations in their boardrooms, small and medium-sized businesses, and home office workers. It also targets education, health care and government customers.

LifeSize has 9,000 video conferencing customers in 80 countries, Logitech said.

The acquisition could put Logitech in competition with companies including Cisco Systems, which has been pushing deeper into the telepresence and videoconferencing markets. Cisco is currently trying to buy videoconferencing provider Tandberg for $3 billion, although it has yet to secure a deal.

Logitech said it will work with unified communications and VoIP (voice over Internet protocol) partners to encourage a more open environment in which video communications systems can interoperate.

Logitech hopes to close the deal in December subject to customary closing conditions, including antitrust approvals. If the deal goes through, LifeSize will operate as a Logitech division from its current location in Austin, Texas.

Logitech diNovo Mini

By Jon on October 31, 2009

October 31, 2009

Tiny Wireless Keyboard For The Home Theater
By Luis Anthony G. Oliveros
Published in the November 2009 print edition of PC World Philippines

Logitech diNovo Mini
P9,599
www.logitech.com

The Logitech diNovo Mini is a pint-sized wireless keyboard designed specifically for pairing with home theaters PCs and the PlayStation 3. It’s for those who need an input device but wouldn’t want a full-sized keyboard parked in their home theaters or living rooms. It comes in a compact 152x90x27.5mm clamshell design at only 175g so handling feels very comfortable with the curved lower corners nestled comfortably within the palm of both hands. This easily makes handling it comparable to using a handheld gaming device or a landscape oriented mobile phone where you type with your thumbs.

Underneath the lid, the keyboard is made up of sensibly tactile keys that offer good feedback. These keys are mostly nicely sized although we would’ve preferred a larger CTRL key which had been minimized to make room for the Windows button on its right side. Also, adequate spacing between each key would’ve helped a lot to enhance usability as we’ve managed to commit several typos during our test period. A circular touchpad is positioned to its right, which doubles as a five-way direction pad to supplement navigation. This keyboard also has a backlight, making it easier for use in rooms with less than desirable lighting conditions.

The diNovo Mini connects via Bluetooth which means it’ll work at up to 10 meters away from the computer. This seems apt since a good parking space for it would be a home theater or a living room’s coffee table near the general couch vicinity. Indeed, quite a comfortable area for multimedia buffs and gamers alike to enjoy their videos and games. A USB dongle is also included in the box should your machine lack the wireless connectivity.

ePLDT execs visit Logitech headquarters

By Jon on May 15, 2009

Executives of ePLDT, the Philippines’ premier Information and Communications Technology company, recently visited the headquarters of global IT company Logitech during ePLDT’s roadshow in the United States. The roadshow is part of ePLDT’s initiative to promote its outsourced managed services projects and encourage US companies to consider the transfer of their non-core IT operations to the Philippines.

Photo shows ePLDT executives Jessica Powell, VP for Sales and Marketing (leftmost); and Arnold Carlos, head of Corporate Sales (rightmost); with Sanjay Dhar, Logitech’s CIO (center) at the Logitech head offices in California.