Just read that Comic-Con will be staying in San Diego for at least the next 5 years.
They had been looking at proposals to move the venue elsewhere, but with this decision will be staying in San Diego until 2015.
Comic-Con will be going on it's 42nd year. It has been held in San Diego since it began in 1970 at the U.S. Grant Hotel. In 1991 it moved to a newly built San Diego Convention Center.
"We are grateful for the tireless efforts all three cities put into their proposals," said Comic-Con spokesman David Glanzer. "In the end, we feel this decision is the best for all those who attend Comic-Con and for the organization itself. We are happy that the community has worked with us to ensure that we remain there."
Loving comics, and living in San Diego this is great news for me!!!!!
JZ
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Nintendo Delays 3D Handheld
Amid concerns over manufacturing issues, Nintendo announced its 3DS handheld game player would not be on store shelves for the upcoming holiday season. News of delay on the 3-D device, which isn't expected until Feb. 26, sent the company's stock price plummeting nearly 9% on the Osaka Securities Exchange
Most had expected the US launch to be in 2011, but to find out the Japan launched had been pushed to Feb. 26 of 2011 was a surprise to most.
Nintendo continues to struggle with Game System Transitions. This will help put the spotlight on the Sony and Microsoft launches of motion based additions to their systems.
Additional to the delay, was the price. The price for the 3D DS was announced at $299, raising the concern of high sales volume. This is a very high price point for a portable game system.
Some game makers for the Nintendo system have also seen their stock prices fall with the release of this news.
JZ
Most had expected the US launch to be in 2011, but to find out the Japan launched had been pushed to Feb. 26 of 2011 was a surprise to most.
Nintendo continues to struggle with Game System Transitions. This will help put the spotlight on the Sony and Microsoft launches of motion based additions to their systems.
Additional to the delay, was the price. The price for the 3D DS was announced at $299, raising the concern of high sales volume. This is a very high price point for a portable game system.
Some game makers for the Nintendo system have also seen their stock prices fall with the release of this news.
JZ
Best Buy Holiday Plans
Will Best Buy's Holiday plans work? Here is the plan - and some questions - Let me know your opinion.
Best Buy has announced a connected holiday season. One where the CE product they offer, the Geek Squad and installation service, as well as price are the formula that will win with customers this season.
Though consumers have not been that focused on TVs, they expect that to be different this Fall. They plan to feature their Dynex and Insignia brand, but also expect to have new featured and aggressively priced TVs from the top brands in the industry.
Geek Squad / Service is set up to handle 4 channels. Stores, car installations, on-line, and phone support.
They have combined their PC and Home Theater experts to be able to handle the integrated installations needed today. Previously PC installs and Home Theater installs were handled separately and by separate groups.
Best Buy has also announced their Holiday Hiring plans. 29,000 seasonal employees. That is the same amount they hired last year, no plans to increase.
Now for the interesting part - NPD recently released a report showing how people are NOT living in a connected world.
75% of consumers did NOT connect or download content in the past 3 months.
Of those that did, 15% did from a computer, 6% from a video game player, 4% from a smartphone, 2% from a connected blu-ray, dvr type device.
Bottom line is that most consumers are not motivated by the current apps available to get connected.
So here in lies the concern - Best Buy is aggressively going after the connected customer - of those buying connected items 75% don't care to be connected.
Does Best Buy have the time / money / people to convince 75% of consumers to care about connectability?
Tough position for a retailer to be in, this is an Industry Issue - lot's of technology being produced, and very little take on usage. Industry needs to take the time to figure out why, and what needs to be done to bring products to the customers that they will actually use the benefits they bring.
Why develop new product if there is no ability to have people see the value of what benefits it brings - they only buy it when it is cheap enough, and 75% don't use the features the item even has.
Why make it in the first place?
JZ
Best Buy has announced a connected holiday season. One where the CE product they offer, the Geek Squad and installation service, as well as price are the formula that will win with customers this season.
Though consumers have not been that focused on TVs, they expect that to be different this Fall. They plan to feature their Dynex and Insignia brand, but also expect to have new featured and aggressively priced TVs from the top brands in the industry.
Geek Squad / Service is set up to handle 4 channels. Stores, car installations, on-line, and phone support.
They have combined their PC and Home Theater experts to be able to handle the integrated installations needed today. Previously PC installs and Home Theater installs were handled separately and by separate groups.
Best Buy has also announced their Holiday Hiring plans. 29,000 seasonal employees. That is the same amount they hired last year, no plans to increase.
Now for the interesting part - NPD recently released a report showing how people are NOT living in a connected world.
75% of consumers did NOT connect or download content in the past 3 months.
Of those that did, 15% did from a computer, 6% from a video game player, 4% from a smartphone, 2% from a connected blu-ray, dvr type device.
Bottom line is that most consumers are not motivated by the current apps available to get connected.
So here in lies the concern - Best Buy is aggressively going after the connected customer - of those buying connected items 75% don't care to be connected.
Does Best Buy have the time / money / people to convince 75% of consumers to care about connectability?
Tough position for a retailer to be in, this is an Industry Issue - lot's of technology being produced, and very little take on usage. Industry needs to take the time to figure out why, and what needs to be done to bring products to the customers that they will actually use the benefits they bring.
Why develop new product if there is no ability to have people see the value of what benefits it brings - they only buy it when it is cheap enough, and 75% don't use the features the item even has.
Why make it in the first place?
JZ
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
AOL purchasing TechCrunch
So the stories are flying around about AOL and their purchase plans of TechCrunch for $40-$50 Million.
TechCrunch will greatly improve the tech content on AOL.This is important as it is one of the most attractive advertising verticles.
In addition to picking up one of leading tech blogs, they will also get a M&A specialist Heather Harde who is currently TechCrunch's CEO.
Since AOL just lost a premium content executive in Marty Moe, Heather Harde could come in and run AOL's Weblogs business and possible roll-up strategy.
As I was writing this a press release has been sent out making it official.
Founded by Michael Arrington, TechCrunch operates a global network of dedicated properties from Europe to Japan, as well as vertically-oriented websites, including MobileCrunch, CrunchGear, TechCrunchIT, GreenTech, TechCrunchTV and CrunchBase. The TechMeme Leaderboard ranks TechCrunch as the No. 1 source of breaking tech news online, followed by AOL’s Engadget.*
*TechMeme Leaderboard, Sept. 28, 2010
TechCrunch will remain headquartered in San Francisco, CA, as a wholly owned AOL unit. Deal terms were not disclosed.
Consolidation it is , and continues.
JZ
TechCrunch will greatly improve the tech content on AOL.This is important as it is one of the most attractive advertising verticles.
In addition to picking up one of leading tech blogs, they will also get a M&A specialist Heather Harde who is currently TechCrunch's CEO.
Since AOL just lost a premium content executive in Marty Moe, Heather Harde could come in and run AOL's Weblogs business and possible roll-up strategy.
As I was writing this a press release has been sent out making it official.
Founded by Michael Arrington, TechCrunch operates a global network of dedicated properties from Europe to Japan, as well as vertically-oriented websites, including MobileCrunch, CrunchGear, TechCrunchIT, GreenTech, TechCrunchTV and CrunchBase. The TechMeme Leaderboard ranks TechCrunch as the No. 1 source of breaking tech news online, followed by AOL’s Engadget.*
*TechMeme Leaderboard, Sept. 28, 2010
TechCrunch will remain headquartered in San Francisco, CA, as a wholly owned AOL unit. Deal terms were not disclosed.
Consolidation it is , and continues.
JZ
BlackBerry PlayBook - Preview
Check out the video released on the BlackBerry Playbook.
Being called the first Professional-Grade Tablet
Can this replace a Business Traveler's Laptop?!
JZ
Toys R Us is Hiring for the Holiday
Toys R Us has announced the plan to hire 45,000 Seasonal Workers.
The hiring will temporarily double the domestic work force for the chain. Toys R Us has stated they plan on opening 600 seasonal Toys R Us Express Stores. They only opened 90 last year.
45,000 is up from 35,000 in the previous year an increase of almost 29%
10,000 of the employees with be for the Express Stores, while 35,000 will be for the 587 traditional toy store.
JZ
The hiring will temporarily double the domestic work force for the chain. Toys R Us has stated they plan on opening 600 seasonal Toys R Us Express Stores. They only opened 90 last year.
45,000 is up from 35,000 in the previous year an increase of almost 29%
10,000 of the employees with be for the Express Stores, while 35,000 will be for the 587 traditional toy store.
JZ
Monday, September 27, 2010
Jimi Heselden Segway Company Owner Dies
Jimi Heselden, the owner of the Segway company, has died after riding one of the two-wheeled machines off a cliff and into a river.
Picture above is the version he was riding on the grounds of his North Yorkshire estate.
A spokesman for West Yorkshire Police said today: "Police were called at 11.40am yesterday to reports of a man in the River Wharfe, apparently having fallen from the cliffs above.
Bizarre end to a man last year ranked 395th on the Sunday Times Rich List.
JZ
Target new store format
Wal-Mart has started new smaller stores, and now we have Target going down the same path for urban markets.
Target will open a new format in Seattle in 2012. It has plans to take this new format to 10 other markets such as San Francisco, and Baltimore in the next couple of years.
New Urban format is larger than the Wal-Mart re sized store. Still 60,000 to 100,000 square feet, vs. the current store size which run 125,000 to 180,000 square feet.
They claim not to be a cookie cutter retailer, but have been most known for creating the racetrack , square format, that is the same in every Target store.
The new format and it's smaller size will be more focused on daily essentials.
Target also announced it would begin selling the Apple Ipad beginning Oct. 3rd.
As the big go small they come closer to more customers, still years in the making, but they are moving in.
JZ
Target will open a new format in Seattle in 2012. It has plans to take this new format to 10 other markets such as San Francisco, and Baltimore in the next couple of years.
New Urban format is larger than the Wal-Mart re sized store. Still 60,000 to 100,000 square feet, vs. the current store size which run 125,000 to 180,000 square feet.
They claim not to be a cookie cutter retailer, but have been most known for creating the racetrack , square format, that is the same in every Target store.
The new format and it's smaller size will be more focused on daily essentials.
Target also announced it would begin selling the Apple Ipad beginning Oct. 3rd.
As the big go small they come closer to more customers, still years in the making, but they are moving in.
JZ
Sunday, September 26, 2010
Jeff Zucker pushed out
In a recent article from the WSJ it has been made clear that Comcast Chief Operating Officer Steve Burke informed Jeff Zucker that at the close of the deal they wanted him to leave.
Jeff Zucker has stated that he is at peace with that. Rumor has it that Comcast could announce a new leadership structure in a few weeks.
Mr. Burke has been in charge of integration efforts. People are still unsure if he will be the choice for CEO. Part of the deal with GE is that they have the right to veto up to 2 choices for CEO to replace Mr. Zucker.
Comcast expects to tightly run NBC Universal and these changes to the executive represent that.
Mr. Zucker had just received an extension to his contract through 2013. It is rumored he will receive $7.8 Million to $12.3 Million per year in cash and bonuses, not counting equity rewards.
Mr. Zucker joined NBC straight out of college in 1986, at age 26 he was the executive producer of NBC's Today Show. He is know for expanding that highly profitable franchise.
Comcast has been quoted as saying Mr. Zucker led NBC with "integrity and purpose."
JZ
Jeff Zucker has stated that he is at peace with that. Rumor has it that Comcast could announce a new leadership structure in a few weeks.
Mr. Burke has been in charge of integration efforts. People are still unsure if he will be the choice for CEO. Part of the deal with GE is that they have the right to veto up to 2 choices for CEO to replace Mr. Zucker.
Comcast expects to tightly run NBC Universal and these changes to the executive represent that.
Mr. Zucker had just received an extension to his contract through 2013. It is rumored he will receive $7.8 Million to $12.3 Million per year in cash and bonuses, not counting equity rewards.
Mr. Zucker joined NBC straight out of college in 1986, at age 26 he was the executive producer of NBC's Today Show. He is know for expanding that highly profitable franchise.
Comcast has been quoted as saying Mr. Zucker led NBC with "integrity and purpose."
JZ
Saturday, September 25, 2010
3DTV Americans postpone purchases
Recent survey report is not good news for makers of 3DTVs.
Though consumers report that they really enjoy the feeling immersed in 3D, they do not enjoy the restricting feeling of wearing the glasses. New comments point to the fact that they do not like the fact that it reduces the multi-tasking they can do without having glasses on.
As it has been noted before, high cost and lack of content are also major concerns for consumers.
This new reports pointed out that 89% of the people that responded felt the glass would constrain other activities they usually do while watching TV.
77% have also stated they feel the 3D technology is only good for sports and special events and not for everyday TV viewing.
Most interesting and possibly alarming fact is that Purchasing Intent declined after customers that has said they intended to purchase in the next 12 month actually had a live demonstration.
The vendor community has put a large amount of money and effort into having live demonstrations available at retail stores with the intent to increase purchase intent, and it appears it is having the opposite impact.
The report was by the Nielsen Company and the Cable and Telecommunications Association for Marketing.
I agree with the content shortage issue, and I also agree that 3DTV is mainly for Movies / Sports and Special events. That being said, Home Theaters that are in customers homes where driven by the intent to recreate the MOVIE experience. Although customers may have only purchased the 40,50,60+ inch screen with the intent to recreate the movie experience they are watching pretty much all programing on these home theater set ups.
As content increases I would expect to see some similar natural change even if the customer INTENT is not there, once the technology is in the home it will be interesting to see how often it is used.
Recently (previous blog of mine) RealD announced technology that can be added to the screen to use Polarized lenses, so the glasses are not powered, and stuck via IR with the TV. This would provide the freedom and multi tasking that customers are used to with their TV experience.
How and when and if the 3DTV options go polarized has yet to be seen.
This is a HOT topic for the TV industry over the next 3 to 5 years. With not much else NEW on the horizon for flat panel television this is a key issue to watch.
JZ
Though consumers report that they really enjoy the feeling immersed in 3D, they do not enjoy the restricting feeling of wearing the glasses. New comments point to the fact that they do not like the fact that it reduces the multi-tasking they can do without having glasses on.
As it has been noted before, high cost and lack of content are also major concerns for consumers.
This new reports pointed out that 89% of the people that responded felt the glass would constrain other activities they usually do while watching TV.
77% have also stated they feel the 3D technology is only good for sports and special events and not for everyday TV viewing.
Most interesting and possibly alarming fact is that Purchasing Intent declined after customers that has said they intended to purchase in the next 12 month actually had a live demonstration.
The vendor community has put a large amount of money and effort into having live demonstrations available at retail stores with the intent to increase purchase intent, and it appears it is having the opposite impact.
The report was by the Nielsen Company and the Cable and Telecommunications Association for Marketing.
I agree with the content shortage issue, and I also agree that 3DTV is mainly for Movies / Sports and Special events. That being said, Home Theaters that are in customers homes where driven by the intent to recreate the MOVIE experience. Although customers may have only purchased the 40,50,60+ inch screen with the intent to recreate the movie experience they are watching pretty much all programing on these home theater set ups.
As content increases I would expect to see some similar natural change even if the customer INTENT is not there, once the technology is in the home it will be interesting to see how often it is used.
Recently (previous blog of mine) RealD announced technology that can be added to the screen to use Polarized lenses, so the glasses are not powered, and stuck via IR with the TV. This would provide the freedom and multi tasking that customers are used to with their TV experience.
How and when and if the 3DTV options go polarized has yet to be seen.
This is a HOT topic for the TV industry over the next 3 to 5 years. With not much else NEW on the horizon for flat panel television this is a key issue to watch.
JZ
Friday, September 24, 2010
Sesame Street and Katy Perry
The debate on Katy Perry and her dress on the Sesame Street video continues.
The dress was designed by Giles Deacon
The majority opinion is that Sesame Street is being pretty silly over the issue considering Elmo doesn't even wearing pants, but now they are banning Katy Perry?
Executives at Sesame Street have expressed they were surprised by the reaction to the video that was leaked on line.
Executives quoted "We would never produce anything we thought was inappropriate. We were surprised not only by the amount of feedback, but how fast it came in. It was a lot,"
The Feedback was described as very split and very different
At the end the decision to pull was based on the feedback from the viewers which they state they have a very interactive relationship and respect that relationship.
The feel Katy Perry is a wonderful musical talent and that they had a great time putting the video together. They will figure out how to do another one.
JZ
The dress was designed by Giles Deacon
The majority opinion is that Sesame Street is being pretty silly over the issue considering Elmo doesn't even wearing pants, but now they are banning Katy Perry?
Executives at Sesame Street have expressed they were surprised by the reaction to the video that was leaked on line.
Executives quoted "We would never produce anything we thought was inappropriate. We were surprised not only by the amount of feedback, but how fast it came in. It was a lot,"
The Feedback was described as very split and very different
At the end the decision to pull was based on the feedback from the viewers which they state they have a very interactive relationship and respect that relationship.
The feel Katy Perry is a wonderful musical talent and that they had a great time putting the video together. They will figure out how to do another one.
JZ
Jeff Zucker vs. Comcast
With Jeff Zucker leaving NBC Universal in approx. 6 months it will be very interesting to see how things change in regards to areas that Mr. Zucker was known for.
One of the things Jeff Zucker was most known for was his hard line stance he took with technology companies and negotiating with those companies. He was quoted as saying "he wasn't sure if .99 cent video rentals for his TV shows was right for his company"
One of his comments he is best know for was in regards to the industry push to move from fixed/physical media to the digital form. He warned all media companies not to "end up trading analog dollars for digital pennies."
He is well known for being a brutal negotiator with Apple. As he exits about 6 months for now, how will the new executive team take a position with the technology industry? Comcast has expanded their ON DEMAND feature. I have had dealings with them in the past, and they believe if the depth and breadth of the ON DEMAND is there, the need for a DVR unit goes away. To do this they need the support of the media companies / competition.
Will they try to get more and take the honey approach during future negotiations after Jeff Zucker leaves is to be seen. Interesting to say the least. This is driving a lot of activity out there on the subject.
JZ
One of the things Jeff Zucker was most known for was his hard line stance he took with technology companies and negotiating with those companies. He was quoted as saying "he wasn't sure if .99 cent video rentals for his TV shows was right for his company"
One of his comments he is best know for was in regards to the industry push to move from fixed/physical media to the digital form. He warned all media companies not to "end up trading analog dollars for digital pennies."
He is well known for being a brutal negotiator with Apple. As he exits about 6 months for now, how will the new executive team take a position with the technology industry? Comcast has expanded their ON DEMAND feature. I have had dealings with them in the past, and they believe if the depth and breadth of the ON DEMAND is there, the need for a DVR unit goes away. To do this they need the support of the media companies / competition.
Will they try to get more and take the honey approach during future negotiations after Jeff Zucker leaves is to be seen. Interesting to say the least. This is driving a lot of activity out there on the subject.
JZ
Zucker leaving NBC Universal
When Comcast takes over Jeff Zucker, President and CEO of NBC Universal, has said he will step down.
Comcast has agreed to pay GE (parent company of NBC Universal) $30 Billion.
Given the timing of the deal, Zucker will most likely be with NBC Universal for about another 6 months.
Zucker has stated just as GE has had their ability to drive their vision with NBC Universal, Comcast needs to have the same opportunity to drive their vision for the company. The timing was right for him. He has said he has worked for them for 24 years, it is the only job he has had, the only professional career he has had.
Zucker was quoted as saying "I don't yet know what my future will bring. I've spent the last 24 years thinking only about NBC Universal, and never contemplated anything else. I haven't even begun to think about the next chapter," he said.
Good luck to you Jeff in whatever the future may hold for you
JZ
Comcast has agreed to pay GE (parent company of NBC Universal) $30 Billion.
Given the timing of the deal, Zucker will most likely be with NBC Universal for about another 6 months.
Zucker has stated just as GE has had their ability to drive their vision with NBC Universal, Comcast needs to have the same opportunity to drive their vision for the company. The timing was right for him. He has said he has worked for them for 24 years, it is the only job he has had, the only professional career he has had.
Zucker was quoted as saying "I don't yet know what my future will bring. I've spent the last 24 years thinking only about NBC Universal, and never contemplated anything else. I haven't even begun to think about the next chapter," he said.
Good luck to you Jeff in whatever the future may hold for you
JZ
Small Business owners on the Economy
Small business owners have voiced their opinion on the economy, and as one can expect, it is not pretty.
78 percent of small business respondents say the economy will either remain stagnant or get worse over the next twelve months.
That is worse than the general public which sixty-four percent of voters have the same opinion.
This is from an Aug. 10th NBC/WSJ Poll.
What is one of the largest issues for small business owners - LAWSUITS
78% feel if Congress allow trial lawyers to bring more lawsuits it will have negative impact on the economic climate impacting business. 92% have said the economy makes it extremely hard for them to absorb any additional cost relating to legal issues.
Final word is that 32% of small business owners are uncertain about the future of their company.
The folks may have said the recession officially ended June of 2009, but MANY feel we are still in the middle of it, not coming out of it.
JZ
78 percent of small business respondents say the economy will either remain stagnant or get worse over the next twelve months.
That is worse than the general public which sixty-four percent of voters have the same opinion.
This is from an Aug. 10th NBC/WSJ Poll.
What is one of the largest issues for small business owners - LAWSUITS
78% feel if Congress allow trial lawyers to bring more lawsuits it will have negative impact on the economic climate impacting business. 92% have said the economy makes it extremely hard for them to absorb any additional cost relating to legal issues.
Final word is that 32% of small business owners are uncertain about the future of their company.
The folks may have said the recession officially ended June of 2009, but MANY feel we are still in the middle of it, not coming out of it.
JZ
Retail Seasonal Job Hiring begins
Based on numbers from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, retailers hired over 453,000 last year. That is significantly up from 231,000 from 2008. Estimates are that the number will be at least as good as 2009 if not better.
It is a hard number for retailers. They want to make sure they have the help to handle the traffic, restock the shelves and take care of the customers during the busiest season, but avoid eating into profits with too many people and nothing to do.
Overall feedback from retailers such as Macy's , Toys-R-Us, Wal-Mart and Jo-Ann stores are that the numbers are slightly up over last year.
It may be only temporary, but our economy needs every job it can get!
JZ
It is a hard number for retailers. They want to make sure they have the help to handle the traffic, restock the shelves and take care of the customers during the busiest season, but avoid eating into profits with too many people and nothing to do.
Overall feedback from retailers such as Macy's , Toys-R-Us, Wal-Mart and Jo-Ann stores are that the numbers are slightly up over last year.
It may be only temporary, but our economy needs every job it can get!
JZ
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Blockbuster Files Chapter 11
I have known about the struggles inside of Blockbuster for several years now. They had gotten to the point that everyone was expecting this, the only issue of debate was when. As of this morning they have filed.
So how will it play out - The agreement with the Bond Holders is to reduce its debt from $900 Million to about $100 Million shedding $800 Million in debt. They will exchange that debt for senior equity in the reorganized company.
There will be no recovery for the current holders of subordinated debt, preferred stock or common stock.
Last piece is the ability for them to establish new financing. They have stated they have $125 Million in new debtor-in-possession financing from senior note holders.
I struggle with seeing Blockbuster making it out of Chapter 11. It is an icon in the US movie rental business, but is way late in moving into the digital realm. I don't think they have enough backing to make a dent in the business that is held well by other companies and other options like On-Demand. I wish them the best, over the years I have met many great people that work for that company. I have had the pleasure of sitting next to their merchants and retail panel speaking engagements.
Another company to watch!
JZ
So how will it play out - The agreement with the Bond Holders is to reduce its debt from $900 Million to about $100 Million shedding $800 Million in debt. They will exchange that debt for senior equity in the reorganized company.
There will be no recovery for the current holders of subordinated debt, preferred stock or common stock.
Last piece is the ability for them to establish new financing. They have stated they have $125 Million in new debtor-in-possession financing from senior note holders.
I struggle with seeing Blockbuster making it out of Chapter 11. It is an icon in the US movie rental business, but is way late in moving into the digital realm. I don't think they have enough backing to make a dent in the business that is held well by other companies and other options like On-Demand. I wish them the best, over the years I have met many great people that work for that company. I have had the pleasure of sitting next to their merchants and retail panel speaking engagements.
Another company to watch!
JZ
32" LCD/DVD Combo On Sale $409.99 Save $30
Integrated Slot-Loading DVD Player - Watch your favorite movies or listen to your favorite CDs without an external player. Just load it into the integrated player on your new TV. Built-In Digital Tuner - Catch your favorite DTV programs without the need of an external box. Wide Viewing Angles - With a 176 deg. horizontal viewing angle and a 176 deg. vertical viewing angle, any seat in the room becomes the best seat in the house. Lightning-Fast Response Time - With an 6.5ms panel response time, you'll experience realistic, lifelike motion with fewer motion artifacts or blur. Connections - HDMI (3), Component w/ Audio, USB, L/R Audio Output, Antenna Input, VGA, COAX, Headphones
Click on the image for more details!
JZ
RCA LCD TV - $569.99
Built-In Digital Tuner - Catch your favorite DTV programs without the need of an external box. Wide Viewing Angles - With a 176 deg. horizontal viewing angle and a 176 deg. vertical viewing angle, any seat in the room becomes the best seat in the house. Lightning-Fast Response Time - With an 6.5ms panel response time, you'll experience realistic, lifelike motion with fewer motion artifacts or blur. 16:9 Aspect Ratio - The LCD panel displays 16:9 widescreen programs in their native aspect ratio without the need for scaling or other video processing Connections - HDMI (3), Component w/ Audio, USB, L/R Audio Output, Antenna Input, VGA, COAX, Headphones
Click on the image above for more details!
JZ
3DTV News - New from RealD
Just when you thought it was safe to go out and purchase a 3DTV, RealD drops some major news today at the 3D Summit.
They will release new technology that does NOT require powered shutter glasses. The TVs will produce an image that can be picked up by polarized passive glasses similar to what you are wearing in the movie theater today.
They call it ZScreen technology, which is an electro-optical system built into the front panel of the TV.
Oakley has already announced offering these glasses this year uncorrected, or with prescription lenses.
What is not clear is which TV manufacturer will have a TV with the RealD technology in it. Vendors that currently are licensed are Toshiba, Sony, Samsung, Panasonic and JVC.
What is won't do is make the technology cheaper. RealD has stated that you are just transferring the cost of the glasses into the TV. So even though the glasses will see a very large price drop no longer needing to be powered and work with IR sensors, the TV will have additional cost of the ZScreen technology in it.
Will need to review more as additional details come out.
JZ
They will release new technology that does NOT require powered shutter glasses. The TVs will produce an image that can be picked up by polarized passive glasses similar to what you are wearing in the movie theater today.
They call it ZScreen technology, which is an electro-optical system built into the front panel of the TV.
Oakley has already announced offering these glasses this year uncorrected, or with prescription lenses.
What is not clear is which TV manufacturer will have a TV with the RealD technology in it. Vendors that currently are licensed are Toshiba, Sony, Samsung, Panasonic and JVC.
What is won't do is make the technology cheaper. RealD has stated that you are just transferring the cost of the glasses into the TV. So even though the glasses will see a very large price drop no longer needing to be powered and work with IR sensors, the TV will have additional cost of the ZScreen technology in it.
Will need to review more as additional details come out.
JZ
Unemployement rises in over 50% of the states
The Labor Department said that 10 states and Washington D.C. had no change in unemployment. 13 states did have a drop in unemployment, but 27 states saw it's unemployment rise last month.
East coast is doing better than west coast. East coast unemployment is 8.8% vs. West coast which is 10.8% , the national number is 9.6%.
With the lack of jobs the housing situation continues to be an issues in western states as well.
70% of homeowners are under water in Nevada. 50% of the homes in Arizona and 33% of the homes in California.
As I have stated in my previous posts, the US needs to create jobs so we can see a real recovery from the recession that was deemed over as of June 2009.
JZ
East coast is doing better than west coast. East coast unemployment is 8.8% vs. West coast which is 10.8% , the national number is 9.6%.
With the lack of jobs the housing situation continues to be an issues in western states as well.
70% of homeowners are under water in Nevada. 50% of the homes in Arizona and 33% of the homes in California.
As I have stated in my previous posts, the US needs to create jobs so we can see a real recovery from the recession that was deemed over as of June 2009.
JZ
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Recession Declared over June 2009
So the official date from the National Bureau of Economic Research, was June of 2009. Right away the talk is "WHAT?!".
So to more clearly define the date, they date is only stating the recovery began in that month and there was no longer falling economic activity spread across the economy. They are not saying it got easier for anyone. They are just stating the end of a defined recessionary period.
Interesting thing that is being stated is that they should concentrate on the labor market. I had the same opinion on my post from 6 days ago after reviewing some economic data, and how dependant US households are on Government support to stay above the poverty line.
Also to put a point on the announcement - the recession lasted 18 months. The worst recession since the Great Depression, but I am sure we all figured that out on our own.
JZ
So to more clearly define the date, they date is only stating the recovery began in that month and there was no longer falling economic activity spread across the economy. They are not saying it got easier for anyone. They are just stating the end of a defined recessionary period.
Interesting thing that is being stated is that they should concentrate on the labor market. I had the same opinion on my post from 6 days ago after reviewing some economic data, and how dependant US households are on Government support to stay above the poverty line.
Also to put a point on the announcement - the recession lasted 18 months. The worst recession since the Great Depression, but I am sure we all figured that out on our own.
JZ
NASA Earth Observatory
Great picture of the Shiveluch Volcano at the NASA website
http://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/IOTD/view.php?id=45872
JZ
http://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/IOTD/view.php?id=45872
JZ
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Wilstorm Comics Shut Down end of year
Wildstorm has reported today it will cease operations at the end of December this year.
From a personnel standpoint the good news is they will all report into Jim Lee and John Rood at DC comics Digital comics team.
All Wildstorm titles, licensing and kid comics will go under the DC banner after the end of the year. Though we are not sure if and when any of those properties will show up next year.
How quickly 20 years past since the Wildstorm Brand was launched, but in these tough economic times it is hard to go it alone. Sale just have not been there to support the go forward business model, so I am not surprised by the news.
I wish the best for the team, I have read many good things about the team, and DC will have this asset to use and drive their business. Hope DC doesn't screw up a good thing!
JZ
From a personnel standpoint the good news is they will all report into Jim Lee and John Rood at DC comics Digital comics team.
All Wildstorm titles, licensing and kid comics will go under the DC banner after the end of the year. Though we are not sure if and when any of those properties will show up next year.
How quickly 20 years past since the Wildstorm Brand was launched, but in these tough economic times it is hard to go it alone. Sale just have not been there to support the go forward business model, so I am not surprised by the news.
I wish the best for the team, I have read many good things about the team, and DC will have this asset to use and drive their business. Hope DC doesn't screw up a good thing!
JZ
Silly Bandz Craze Continues
Out for just over a year or so now the Silly Bandz rubber band bracelets keep running out of stock! Some of the older ones that are hard to find are hitting collector status. Most people are asking - is it a "Fad" , or will it have staying power like the Slinky. Currently there are five different packs, Zoo, Sea, Pets, Dinosaurs and shapes. New packs are due out prior to the Holidays.
These are so popular there are Just Bieber Silly Bandz set to hit the market in the next few weeks! On their website they are saying it will be a 24 pack with shapes of music notes and "I heart JB" as well as shape of him singing.
Best thing about this hot craze for parents is the cost is cheap to keep your kids happy. You also know it is a hot product when schools are considering banning them calling them "too distracting". Parents check with your school before they run off with an armful of Silly Bandz!
Enjoy!!
JZ
These are so popular there are Just Bieber Silly Bandz set to hit the market in the next few weeks! On their website they are saying it will be a 24 pack with shapes of music notes and "I heart JB" as well as shape of him singing.
Best thing about this hot craze for parents is the cost is cheap to keep your kids happy. You also know it is a hot product when schools are considering banning them calling them "too distracting". Parents check with your school before they run off with an armful of Silly Bandz!
Enjoy!!
JZ
Retailer News - Kohls / Wal-Mart
Kohls continues to expand on the solar power installed to support their stores. Over 100 stores now have solar power which generates up to 50% of what the stores electrical requirements are. The are in the process of completing 500 Energy Star Stores. They estimate they are saved $50 Million in energy costs. Each store has about 1,400 panels, supplying enough power for 36 homes. Pretty impressive.
Wal-Mart continues to push into cities with smaller stores. These stores will only be about 20,000 square feet. They have searching for real estate in New York City, San Francisco and other cities. In General Wal-Mart has been downsizing their stores a bit with the new markets they have gone into. Avg use to be 195,000 square feet, down to about 150,000 square feet. The smaller size which is only for Urban areas is expected to be in the Marketside format they have been testing since 2008. They currently have 4 which average about 15,000 square feet. Wal-Mart is looking for new energy to break through the wall it has hit in the last 5 months with negative comp store sales.
JZ
Wal-Mart continues to push into cities with smaller stores. These stores will only be about 20,000 square feet. They have searching for real estate in New York City, San Francisco and other cities. In General Wal-Mart has been downsizing their stores a bit with the new markets they have gone into. Avg use to be 195,000 square feet, down to about 150,000 square feet. The smaller size which is only for Urban areas is expected to be in the Marketside format they have been testing since 2008. They currently have 4 which average about 15,000 square feet. Wal-Mart is looking for new energy to break through the wall it has hit in the last 5 months with negative comp store sales.
JZ
Monday, September 20, 2010
New Halo Reach Numbers
Just read on Mashable some impressive numbers for Halo Reach, it has already hit a $200 Million revenue on day one retail, but check these out:
31,000,000 games have been played since launch.
98,000,000 player games have been recorded.
8,214,338 Daily Challenges have been completed.
255,996 Weekly Challenges have been completed.
78,499,560,895 total credits have been earned.
953 years have been spent in match-made games.
1,365 years have been spent in campaign.
854,107 files have been uploaded.
577,804 recommendations have been sent to friends.
4,619,455 files have been downloaded.
Wowzers!!!!!
JZ
Wowzers!!!!!
JZ
NASA Shuttle moves out to the launch pad tonight.
Shuttle Discovery moves out to the launch pad tonight 8pm ET.
You can watch it LIVE on NASA TV. Take the link below:
http://www.nasa.gov/multimedia/nasatv/index.html
JZ
You can watch it LIVE on NASA TV. Take the link below:
http://www.nasa.gov/multimedia/nasatv/index.html
JZ
HOUSE new season starts tonight
This is absolutely a MUST watch for me.
Now I have to admit I am a bit concerned with them going down the whole relationship with Cuddy thing. Hope this doesn't spin this show out of control and take away from the CORE that makes it what it is.
Not sure I will watch it live - I always DVR the whole season, but I will watch it tonight.
One of my weekly drugs is back!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
HOUSE!
JZ
Now I have to admit I am a bit concerned with them going down the whole relationship with Cuddy thing. Hope this doesn't spin this show out of control and take away from the CORE that makes it what it is.
Not sure I will watch it live - I always DVR the whole season, but I will watch it tonight.
One of my weekly drugs is back!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
HOUSE!
JZ
Halo Reach Day 3
Worked my way through the second chapter on the Solo Campaign. Several opportunities for vehicle use in the second part.
Throughout this level my weapon of choice was the assault rifle (DMR apparently this is new as well). The ability to use the scope and get some headshots in, knock the enemies down a few pegs before getting up close and personal is very useful.
I had a good time taking the shot and running up to an enemy Revanant (new vehicle for Halo Reach) jumping on it, and taking it down by smashing the *&^% out of it. HUGE risk of being run over and squashed quickly, so not the smartest approach but a whole lot of fun.
Fighting the Mgalekgolo was a pain in the @$$ as it should be, man can they defend and take a boat load of damage before taking a dirt nap. Note it is good to let whichever PC character is with you distract them so you can get more shots off on their back and head as they fight. They cover up really well if they are focused on you.
Had some nice sticks, and made my way through to see the glorious ending - I will hold of describing the end to this section. I will not the cinema between spots and especially chapters is excellent. A great story unfolding, I just don't want to spoil any spots with explaining the sequence.
Chapter 3 starts out with MY FAVORITE sniper riffle - it took everything in me to stop there and call it a night. I will be jumping back in today. After Monday Night Football of course!
JZ
Throughout this level my weapon of choice was the assault rifle (DMR apparently this is new as well). The ability to use the scope and get some headshots in, knock the enemies down a few pegs before getting up close and personal is very useful.
I had a good time taking the shot and running up to an enemy Revanant (new vehicle for Halo Reach) jumping on it, and taking it down by smashing the *&^% out of it. HUGE risk of being run over and squashed quickly, so not the smartest approach but a whole lot of fun.
Fighting the Mgalekgolo was a pain in the @$$ as it should be, man can they defend and take a boat load of damage before taking a dirt nap. Note it is good to let whichever PC character is with you distract them so you can get more shots off on their back and head as they fight. They cover up really well if they are focused on you.
Had some nice sticks, and made my way through to see the glorious ending - I will hold of describing the end to this section. I will not the cinema between spots and especially chapters is excellent. A great story unfolding, I just don't want to spoil any spots with explaining the sequence.
Chapter 3 starts out with MY FAVORITE sniper riffle - it took everything in me to stop there and call it a night. I will be jumping back in today. After Monday Night Football of course!
JZ
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Giants are getting SPANKED!
Means I need to go play some Halo Reach!!!!!!!
I will follow up with some more gameplay notes.
JZ
I will follow up with some more gameplay notes.
JZ
Halo Reach - Day 2
Spent some time on Multiplayer. Impressive how well the system handles all the activity without any slow down. There is A LOT going on in multiplayer. Only down side is having the sidebars take away from the overall experience.
I looked for a video adjustment, but I did not find any way to adjust the screen to get rid of the bars.
Outside of that, it is the multiplayer goodness that you are used to on the quality Halo Franchise.
Played multiplayer through the first and second chapters of the story. Just be prepared for an enemy with our favorite Energy Sword in key positions toward the finish of the First and Second chapter. Looking for something a little different going forward. As much as I like to get sliced and diced, a little more variety in my death would be nice! ;-)
Still haven't gotten on-line to do battle yet. Maybe tonight!
JZ
I looked for a video adjustment, but I did not find any way to adjust the screen to get rid of the bars.
Outside of that, it is the multiplayer goodness that you are used to on the quality Halo Franchise.
Played multiplayer through the first and second chapters of the story. Just be prepared for an enemy with our favorite Energy Sword in key positions toward the finish of the First and Second chapter. Looking for something a little different going forward. As much as I like to get sliced and diced, a little more variety in my death would be nice! ;-)
Still haven't gotten on-line to do battle yet. Maybe tonight!
JZ
Samsung Releases Tablet
Dell - now Samsung - who is next? Called the Galaxy Tab - 7" tablet supports 3G and Wi-Fi.
You will have your choice of carriers for the Samsung tablet, available from AT&T, Verizon, Sprint and T-mobile.
It has a 7" screen and will weigh .83 pounds. Android 2.2, wide super VGA 1024 x 600 TFT Display. It has 2 cameras. A rear facing 3.2 megapixel and a front facing 1.3 megapixel camera.
Samsung claims the battery will last up to 7 hrs watching video.
The Adriod market now has 80,000 apps available according to Google, giving Samsung users plenty to pick from.
For business folks it will come loaded with Microsoft Document Viewer and Editor, which allows you to open and make changes to any Word, Excel, PowerPoint, or PDF document.
It will arrive in time for holiday season. Samsung has stated the pricing will be left up to the carriers. I think price will be key to success and we will have to wait and see where the carriers put it at.
JZ
You will have your choice of carriers for the Samsung tablet, available from AT&T, Verizon, Sprint and T-mobile.
It has a 7" screen and will weigh .83 pounds. Android 2.2, wide super VGA 1024 x 600 TFT Display. It has 2 cameras. A rear facing 3.2 megapixel and a front facing 1.3 megapixel camera.
Samsung claims the battery will last up to 7 hrs watching video.
The Adriod market now has 80,000 apps available according to Google, giving Samsung users plenty to pick from.
For business folks it will come loaded with Microsoft Document Viewer and Editor, which allows you to open and make changes to any Word, Excel, PowerPoint, or PDF document.
It will arrive in time for holiday season. Samsung has stated the pricing will be left up to the carriers. I think price will be key to success and we will have to wait and see where the carriers put it at.
JZ
Friday, September 17, 2010
Halo Reach - Day 1
So my Halo Reach arrived today in the mail. Cracked it out and fired it up. Noticed the more extensive way to customize your character. For me a new earning ability in which you will need to earn credits to buy what you want.
Set myself to Heroic - didn't think after a 3 year layoff I was ready for Legendary!
Worked my way through the first section. Getting a bunch of head shots, and a good number of sticks along the way. Left pretty good after the first 3 or 4 checkpoints. As expected the first level starts a bit slow. Larger areas to move through before any action begins. Once the enemies show, it is the brawl you LOVE. Switching weapons, targeting with the pistol, tossing timed grenades. Graphics are detailed and sharp, no slow down as the increasing number of enemies poor onto the screen. Story seems to be unfolding well. I generally tend to play the solo all the way through before I get on-line and battle, but I don't think I am going to wait this time.
More tomorrow - I may have jumped on-line tonight and will give you details of how that played out.
JZ
Set myself to Heroic - didn't think after a 3 year layoff I was ready for Legendary!
Worked my way through the first section. Getting a bunch of head shots, and a good number of sticks along the way. Left pretty good after the first 3 or 4 checkpoints. As expected the first level starts a bit slow. Larger areas to move through before any action begins. Once the enemies show, it is the brawl you LOVE. Switching weapons, targeting with the pistol, tossing timed grenades. Graphics are detailed and sharp, no slow down as the increasing number of enemies poor onto the screen. Story seems to be unfolding well. I generally tend to play the solo all the way through before I get on-line and battle, but I don't think I am going to wait this time.
More tomorrow - I may have jumped on-line tonight and will give you details of how that played out.
JZ
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Getting Fit with Zumba
Check out this Total Body Transofrmation set. My wife and 2 daughter take Zumba classes over at Time to Shine. This kit is a deal vs. the hassle and cost of going to a class, or you can get up to spead before getting into the crowd and trying it out. Hit the link, check it out, they have a video up there as well. It is a WORKOUT and my family loves it.
JZ
JZ
My daughters have created a show
They are getting better with each one. If you get a chance take this link to YouTube and check them out. They have 5 Episodes of The Amanda Smithe Show (very short 2-4 mins each) up on YouTube.
http://www.youtube.com/user/theamandasmitheshow#p/u
She has now created a fan page on Facebook as well at
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pages/The-Amanda-Smithe-Show/114421358616850?ref=ts
Let her know what you think!
JZ
http://www.youtube.com/user/theamandasmitheshow#p/u
She has now created a fan page on Facebook as well at
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pages/The-Amanda-Smithe-Show/114421358616850?ref=ts
Let her know what you think!
JZ
Sam's Club more FRESH FOODS
Sam's Club has announced the will be bringing in more Fresh Foods into 150 of the Sam's Clubs that they will be remodeling.
These stores will also have a prepared food section as well. (rotisserie chicken salad as an example)
The remodel is viewed as having the potential to create a more appealing merchandise mix. Improve their competitive position against Costco.
JZ
These stores will also have a prepared food section as well. (rotisserie chicken salad as an example)
The remodel is viewed as having the potential to create a more appealing merchandise mix. Improve their competitive position against Costco.
JZ
Microsoft and Halo reach and Kinect equal sales for the Holidays?
Bill Spencer - Microsoft Game Studios - stating Xbox360 supports 3DTV but is not focused on that compare to the Kinect which is for a much broader customer base. Microsoft is not trying to sell you a new TV so they are not focused on that.
Microscoft has the best selling game console in the US and Europe, but is outsold in Japan 10-1 by the Wii and 4-1 by the PS3.
Halo Reach just released and sold $200 Million in fist day revenue, bigger than any other entertainment property.
Kinect will have a lengthy list of titles at launch, and will launch in time for holiday season. Expected to appeal to a large audiance and large succes.
JZ
Microscoft has the best selling game console in the US and Europe, but is outsold in Japan 10-1 by the Wii and 4-1 by the PS3.
Halo Reach just released and sold $200 Million in fist day revenue, bigger than any other entertainment property.
Kinect will have a lengthy list of titles at launch, and will launch in time for holiday season. Expected to appeal to a large audiance and large succes.
JZ
Government Debt and US Household dependency
There is an alarming relationship between Government Debt and the US Households that depend on Government programs that drive that debt.
As of 2008 - 44% , yes 44% of Americans live in Households that are receiving Social Security, subsidized housing, jobless benefits or other government-provided benefits.
The US has been a Consumer Spending driven economy. That puts Government in a very difficult position when trying to manage a way out of the current economic conditions. Cut into Government Spending and you have a good chance of impacting up to 44% of the US population negatively impacting their ability to spend.
We need to create jobs, find ways to get the US households on their own 2 feet again.
Another point - due to low paying jobs, or joblessness - an estimated 45% of household will not pay any income tax for 2010. Half of those people don't earn enough to pay taxes, and the rest have low enough pay that the credits and deductions they qualify for reduce their taxes to zero!
There is no one silver bullet for the economy, but it appears that creating higher quality jobs in the US will be a foundation we need to build or we may be stacking up another house of cards to come tumbling down again.
JZ
As of 2008 - 44% , yes 44% of Americans live in Households that are receiving Social Security, subsidized housing, jobless benefits or other government-provided benefits.
The US has been a Consumer Spending driven economy. That puts Government in a very difficult position when trying to manage a way out of the current economic conditions. Cut into Government Spending and you have a good chance of impacting up to 44% of the US population negatively impacting their ability to spend.
We need to create jobs, find ways to get the US households on their own 2 feet again.
Another point - due to low paying jobs, or joblessness - an estimated 45% of household will not pay any income tax for 2010. Half of those people don't earn enough to pay taxes, and the rest have low enough pay that the credits and deductions they qualify for reduce their taxes to zero!
There is no one silver bullet for the economy, but it appears that creating higher quality jobs in the US will be a foundation we need to build or we may be stacking up another house of cards to come tumbling down again.
JZ
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Itune 10 can create free ringtones
CNET has put a video on-line that walks you through creating free ringtones with you music files (well most of them at least) - ABOUT TIME!
Check it out.
http://cnettv.cnet.com/create-free-ringtones-itunes-10/9742-1_53-50093086.html?tag=cnetRiver
JZ
Check it out.
http://cnettv.cnet.com/create-free-ringtones-itunes-10/9742-1_53-50093086.html?tag=cnetRiver
JZ
IE9 Beta is now available
IE9 Beta is now available for download. See the link.
http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/internet-explorer/download/ie-9/worldwide
JZ
http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/internet-explorer/download/ie-9/worldwide
JZ
#newtwitter Video
Nice video showing off the new Twitter Design. Check it out at this link.
http://twitter.com/newtwitter
JZ
http://twitter.com/newtwitter
JZ
Leaked News Best Buy / Google TV
Engadget reported today they have received a tip / copy of a Best Buy E-mail claiming the launch date of 10/3 will need to be pushed back 2 weeks. This shift in timing also just so happens to move it out of direct competition of the launch of the new Apple TV device.
Interesting.....
JZ
Interesting.....
JZ
IPad competition hits
Dell takes a new angle. Instead of just hitting Apple head on at retail they have taken another direction.
In addition to launching the consumer version of the Streak Tablet, Dell will attempt to get it in the hands of Doctors. They have incorporated their established healthcare software enabling doctors to easily retrieve patient electronics medical records and patient information as they do their daily routine.
Dell feels they also have an advantage for Doctors with the 2 cameras in the device allowing Doctors to record images and easily upload them to patient records.
Health industry has become a major focus for Dell, we will see how this plays out.
JZ
In addition to launching the consumer version of the Streak Tablet, Dell will attempt to get it in the hands of Doctors. They have incorporated their established healthcare software enabling doctors to easily retrieve patient electronics medical records and patient information as they do their daily routine.
Dell feels they also have an advantage for Doctors with the 2 cameras in the device allowing Doctors to record images and easily upload them to patient records.
Health industry has become a major focus for Dell, we will see how this plays out.
JZ
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
TV Industry News
So the US TV business continued to slow in second quarter of 2010. Q1 was up only 1% and Q2 has come in down 3%.
Global TV sales still rose 26% year over year in Q2. Driven by markets like China which was up 31%. This is still a large slow down from last year where China was up triple-digit.
What is slow in the US - rumor has it there is a significant amount of inventory that has grown in LED, IPTV and 3DTV, in sizes 40/42" , 46/47" & 55". Missing forecasts in these categories and sizes are driving reports you are hearing about soft TV sales from Costco, Best Buy, Target, Wal-Mart, and others.
Worldwide Brand percentages were reported for Q2 as:
Samsung - 24.4%
LG - 14.1%
Sony - 12.8%
Panasonic - 9.0%
Sharp - 6.4%
Other - 33.3%
This is worldwide, and you would see a significantly different picture if reported for US only.
3DTV sales estimates for the year had been reported to be as high as 5 Million units.
Current 3DTV estimates for the US targeted 2.6 Million, and have recently been discussed at struggling to hit 2 Million units.
This will build up to an interesting Holiday Season. If sales continue to be soft, something is going to give. Someone is going to need to move inventory, either at retail or driven by Vendor Incentive to get inventory back in line. Panel suppliers have been rumored to be reducing capacity vs. attacking the situation with price. I expect there will be some price movement, but how and when that impacts pricing in the stores for consumers to react is up in the air.
Another wild ride into the holiday season.
Questions? Let me know!
JZ
Global TV sales still rose 26% year over year in Q2. Driven by markets like China which was up 31%. This is still a large slow down from last year where China was up triple-digit.
What is slow in the US - rumor has it there is a significant amount of inventory that has grown in LED, IPTV and 3DTV, in sizes 40/42" , 46/47" & 55". Missing forecasts in these categories and sizes are driving reports you are hearing about soft TV sales from Costco, Best Buy, Target, Wal-Mart, and others.
Worldwide Brand percentages were reported for Q2 as:
Samsung - 24.4%
LG - 14.1%
Sony - 12.8%
Panasonic - 9.0%
Sharp - 6.4%
Other - 33.3%
This is worldwide, and you would see a significantly different picture if reported for US only.
3DTV sales estimates for the year had been reported to be as high as 5 Million units.
Current 3DTV estimates for the US targeted 2.6 Million, and have recently been discussed at struggling to hit 2 Million units.
This will build up to an interesting Holiday Season. If sales continue to be soft, something is going to give. Someone is going to need to move inventory, either at retail or driven by Vendor Incentive to get inventory back in line. Panel suppliers have been rumored to be reducing capacity vs. attacking the situation with price. I expect there will be some price movement, but how and when that impacts pricing in the stores for consumers to react is up in the air.
Another wild ride into the holiday season.
Questions? Let me know!
JZ
Wal-Mart Cell Phone Plan
The new service is called "Family Mobile", intended to target families with multiple phones but do not want to lock into a standard full blow cell phone contract service.
You will not pre pay - you will receive a monthly bill from Wal-Mart. (They will be using the T-Mobile network in the US) It is their plan and their bill, but using T-Mobile's equipment.
Cost $45 for the first phone , $25 for each additional line. No contract and you can cancel whenever you want. The phones they offer for the plan will cost between $35-$250.
Monthly bill gives you unlimited calls and texting.
More details to come, should be interesting to see how much market share they can grab with this.
JZ
You will not pre pay - you will receive a monthly bill from Wal-Mart. (They will be using the T-Mobile network in the US) It is their plan and their bill, but using T-Mobile's equipment.
Cost $45 for the first phone , $25 for each additional line. No contract and you can cancel whenever you want. The phones they offer for the plan will cost between $35-$250.
Monthly bill gives you unlimited calls and texting.
More details to come, should be interesting to see how much market share they can grab with this.
JZ
Gamers Like 3DTV - Halo Reach 3D ?!
A study by the Nielsen Company found the following:
77% of consumers believe 3DTV is better-suited for special events (Sporting Events & Movies)
42% say they would like to play video games in 3D
and for all you Halo Reach (hardcore gamers) fans out there, 71% want 3D video games
I WANT MY 3DTV!!!!!!!!
JZ
77% of consumers believe 3DTV is better-suited for special events (Sporting Events & Movies)
42% say they would like to play video games in 3D
and for all you Halo Reach (hardcore gamers) fans out there, 71% want 3D video games
I WANT MY 3DTV!!!!!!!!
JZ
Best Buy Releases Earnings
So the positive:
Net earning up, $254 Million vs. $158 Million last year.
Revenue also up, $11.3 Billion vs. $11 Billion last year.
Now the "Not so good" if you read through the detail
Comp Store down 0.1%
Continued softness in television and software sales - let me point out that TVs are one of if not THE largest category for Best Buy and shrinking margin and sales in this category can not be made up by others in their box.
The improvement in earning was driven by lowering promotional cost - risk in traffic and sales
They also narrowed their comp guidance to 1%-2% vs a previous 1%-3%, showing continued concerned about the rest of the year and the ability to drive top line sales
Obviously trying to focus on margin for the rest of the year, but to do it, and continue to have soft sales and decreasing traffic this could be much harder than they are forecasting
Thoughts???? Let me know.
JZ
Net earning up, $254 Million vs. $158 Million last year.
Revenue also up, $11.3 Billion vs. $11 Billion last year.
Now the "Not so good" if you read through the detail
Comp Store down 0.1%
Continued softness in television and software sales - let me point out that TVs are one of if not THE largest category for Best Buy and shrinking margin and sales in this category can not be made up by others in their box.
The improvement in earning was driven by lowering promotional cost - risk in traffic and sales
They also narrowed their comp guidance to 1%-2% vs a previous 1%-3%, showing continued concerned about the rest of the year and the ability to drive top line sales
Obviously trying to focus on margin for the rest of the year, but to do it, and continue to have soft sales and decreasing traffic this could be much harder than they are forecasting
Thoughts???? Let me know.
JZ
Halo Reach available Today!!!!!
Are you ready to jump back in and fight the good fight. Trailer and other info available at this link.
http://www.xbox.com/en-US/games/splash/h/haloreach/
I went back on to Bungie Net the other day and realized I had played my last 22 games on line back in December of 2007! Where did the time go? Guess I took a serious break after Halo 3.
My copy of Halo Reach is shipping to me today. Gamer tag is Zuppy JZ , look forward to seeing everyone on line!
JZ
http://www.xbox.com/en-US/games/splash/h/haloreach/
I went back on to Bungie Net the other day and realized I had played my last 22 games on line back in December of 2007! Where did the time go? Guess I took a serious break after Halo 3.
My copy of Halo Reach is shipping to me today. Gamer tag is Zuppy JZ , look forward to seeing everyone on line!
JZ
NASA Picture of the day
I love the pictures they have on the NASA website. Check out today's picture of the day at this link.
http://www.nasa.gov/multimedia/imagegallery/image_feature_1759.html
Giant planet GJ 436b in the constellation Leo is missing something--and that something is swamp gas.
JZ
http://www.nasa.gov/multimedia/imagegallery/image_feature_1759.html
Giant planet GJ 436b in the constellation Leo is missing something--and that something is swamp gas.
JZ
Monday, September 13, 2010
Blu-Ray - still lagging
See my quotes on EngadgetHD in early 2009. Consumers have yet to see the upside benefit to the additional cost of the hardware and software for Blu-Ray. See the article in this link.
http://hd.engadget.com/2009/02/26/analysts-hem-and-haw-on-future-blu-ray-success/
We are moving into a phase where technology is mostly evolutionary vs. revolutionary. In a tough economy how much more are you willing to pay?
Let me know you thoughts!
JZ
http://hd.engadget.com/2009/02/26/analysts-hem-and-haw-on-future-blu-ray-success/
We are moving into a phase where technology is mostly evolutionary vs. revolutionary. In a tough economy how much more are you willing to pay?
Let me know you thoughts!
JZ
3DTV at home is soft, but still hot in the Theaters
#1 movie for the weekend - "Resident Evil: Afterlife" 3D. According to studio estimates made $27.7 Million over the weekend.
What will it take for people to bring this experience into their home? Monday Night Football and the 2011 Super Bowl?
Is the price too high? Not enough 3D content? We are use to the glasses from the Movie Theater so I wouldn't expect that to be much of an issue.
Thoughts? Let me know!
JZ
What will it take for people to bring this experience into their home? Monday Night Football and the 2011 Super Bowl?
Is the price too high? Not enough 3D content? We are use to the glasses from the Movie Theater so I wouldn't expect that to be much of an issue.
Thoughts? Let me know!
JZ
Jamie Oliver's Food Revolution Show
New Show on tonight 9/13/2010 see the link for time dates and more.
http://www.jamieoliver.com/tv/jamie-s-food-revolution
http://www.jamieoliver.com/tv/jamie-s-food-revolution
MarketSource Survey - points of view
If you have jumped over to the article and read here are some thoughts as I was reading.
1) 81% seek out information on-line
Do you find that this directly relates to some other findings/issues? I do -
Price being #1 for importance to buy
Features was #2, but the brand is now 4.2 on a 1-5 scale with 1 being more important
Style is dead last
What does this say for the money spent promoting your Brands Quality and Style? Apparently the features that you are driving with the Brand are not giving credit to the brand.
Customer is clearly stating they will wait until the feature (they may or may not understand) is at the right price, and they do not care how it looks or who it is from.
I am going to pass on going into the - Where to Shop. I could go on forever about that!
JZ
1) 81% seek out information on-line
Do you find that this directly relates to some other findings/issues? I do -
Price being #1 for importance to buy
Features was #2, but the brand is now 4.2 on a 1-5 scale with 1 being more important
Style is dead last
What does this say for the money spent promoting your Brands Quality and Style? Apparently the features that you are driving with the Brand are not giving credit to the brand.
Customer is clearly stating they will wait until the feature (they may or may not understand) is at the right price, and they do not care how it looks or who it is from.
I am going to pass on going into the - Where to Shop. I could go on forever about that!
JZ
MarketSource Survey Finds What Drives People To Buy
MarketSource Survey Finds What Drives People To Buy: "Alpharetta, Ga. - CE shoppers do more research online than they doin-store ..."
Chattanooga becomes home to 1Gbps internet service, just $350 per month
USA needs to keep up with world pricing on the internet - we are WAY behind! - JZ
by Darren Murph posted Sep 13th 2010 at 11:48AM
It pales in comparison to Sigbritt Löthberg's home internet connection, but it sure makes Comcast's Extreme 105Mbps broadband package look downright sluggish. EPB Fiber Optics (Chattanooga's municipally-owned fiber-to-the-premises network) and Alcatel-Lucent have teamed up to offer America's "fastest" home broadband service -- a service that brings 1Gbps (or 1000Mbps, if that strikes you better) directly to your PC. Best of all, the service is actually on sale starting today, and every single home and business within EPB's 600 square-mile, nine-county service area will be able to access the network. Oh, and in case you're wondering, this actually isn't affiliated in any way with Google's own proposed 1Gbps service, which likely means that this record will only sit in southeast Tennessee for a few months. Still, we hear this place is some kind of beautiful in the fall, but make sure you're cool with a $350 monthly charge before pulling the trigger on a relocation.
Update: Tipster Jens notes that he can get a 1Gbps connection for 900 SEK per month in Stockholm, or around $126. Baby steps, we Americans are taking.
by Darren Murph posted Sep 13th 2010 at 11:48AM
It pales in comparison to Sigbritt Löthberg's home internet connection, but it sure makes Comcast's Extreme 105Mbps broadband package look downright sluggish. EPB Fiber Optics (Chattanooga's municipally-owned fiber-to-the-premises network) and Alcatel-Lucent have teamed up to offer America's "fastest" home broadband service -- a service that brings 1Gbps (or 1000Mbps, if that strikes you better) directly to your PC. Best of all, the service is actually on sale starting today, and every single home and business within EPB's 600 square-mile, nine-county service area will be able to access the network. Oh, and in case you're wondering, this actually isn't affiliated in any way with Google's own proposed 1Gbps service, which likely means that this record will only sit in southeast Tennessee for a few months. Still, we hear this place is some kind of beautiful in the fall, but make sure you're cool with a $350 monthly charge before pulling the trigger on a relocation.
Update: Tipster Jens notes that he can get a 1Gbps connection for 900 SEK per month in Stockholm, or around $126. Baby steps, we Americans are taking.
Rumor pegs Nintendo 3DS for November 11th in Japan
By Sean Hollister posted Sep 12th 2010 2:56PM Remember when Nintendo said it'd release its release date for the 3DS autostereoscopic portable game system on the 29th of this month? We may already have the magic number -- depending on how you interpret a few Japanese words. You see, a supposed video game accessory designer by the handle "nocchisan" recently tweeted that eleven Nintendo 3DS accessories will be released on November 11th, and asked his or her followers to kindly buy them up... while purportedly remarking that the 3DS itself will arrive at the same time. While the tweets in question can certainly be read that way, and it makes a certain amount of sense for accessories to appear at launch, our admittedly limited grasp of Japanese suggests an alternative translation: that it's the accessories themselves (and not the 3DS) that will all arrive at the same time. There's also the little matter of nocchisan himself, whose Twitter account has already disappeared -- we have nothing actually connecting him to the accessory company except a link in his tweet.
Gordan Ramsay's App is coming
Gordan Ramsay warned all his fans in a tweet today "GordonRamsay01 for all of you who voted my app the most wanted, watch out it’s coming very soon!! "
eLocity Tablet Available For Pre-Order
eLocity Tablet Available For Pre-Order: "Philadelphia - The eLocity A7 tablet, announced last month, became availa..."
Kieron Gillen Joins The X-Men
Kieron Gillen Joins The X-Men
The newly-exclusive Marvel creator partners with Matt Fraction as the new co-writer of Uncanny X-Men
UNCANNY X-MEN #531 cover by Greg Land Marvel is proud to announce that newly-exclusive writer Kieron Gillen (THOR, GENERATION HOPE) will join the Eisner-winning Matt Fraction on UNCANNY X-MEN! Beginning with UNCANNY X-MEN #531, Fraction and Gillen pit the X-Men against what may be their greatest threat yet: he loss of their powers at the hands of the Sublime Corporation, as the malevolent force puts into action its master plan!
"For the last 30 years, UNCANNY X-MEN has been super hero comics' truest reflection of the age. That's what I have to live up to and take it into the future, trying to write the definitive twenty-teen take on the X-Men," explains Gillen. "Any less is underselling what the book deserves. Co-writing with Matt seems a worryingly natural development, as we were friends, then were working together creating the five lights for GENERATION HOPE. The exclusive is the proverbial gravy. In the words of Ms. Knowles:' They liked it. They put a ring on it.'"
Fraction adds, "As a writer? This feels like Kieron and I have already been working on the book for several months anyway, what with the ‘Five Lights' story and cueing up what he needed for GENERATION HOPE, so this is a perfectly natural extension of that. As a reader? There's literally no one else in the world I want to read writing X-Men more than Kieron. He's great. He's dangerously great. And he's dying...Dying to entertain you."
A bold new era for the X-Men begins in December as Matt Fraction and Kieron Gillen join forces in UNCANNY X-MEN #531!
The newly-exclusive Marvel creator partners with Matt Fraction as the new co-writer of Uncanny X-Men
UNCANNY X-MEN #531 cover by Greg Land Marvel is proud to announce that newly-exclusive writer Kieron Gillen (THOR, GENERATION HOPE) will join the Eisner-winning Matt Fraction on UNCANNY X-MEN! Beginning with UNCANNY X-MEN #531, Fraction and Gillen pit the X-Men against what may be their greatest threat yet: he loss of their powers at the hands of the Sublime Corporation, as the malevolent force puts into action its master plan!
"For the last 30 years, UNCANNY X-MEN has been super hero comics' truest reflection of the age. That's what I have to live up to and take it into the future, trying to write the definitive twenty-teen take on the X-Men," explains Gillen. "Any less is underselling what the book deserves. Co-writing with Matt seems a worryingly natural development, as we were friends, then were working together creating the five lights for GENERATION HOPE. The exclusive is the proverbial gravy. In the words of Ms. Knowles:' They liked it. They put a ring on it.'"
Fraction adds, "As a writer? This feels like Kieron and I have already been working on the book for several months anyway, what with the ‘Five Lights' story and cueing up what he needed for GENERATION HOPE, so this is a perfectly natural extension of that. As a reader? There's literally no one else in the world I want to read writing X-Men more than Kieron. He's great. He's dangerously great. And he's dying...Dying to entertain you."
A bold new era for the X-Men begins in December as Matt Fraction and Kieron Gillen join forces in UNCANNY X-MEN #531!
Plane Crash Reported
Venezuelan officials say a plane has crashed with 47 people on board; some survivors are reported
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Nokia Picks Former Microsoft Exec As President/CEO
Nokia Picks Former Microsoft Exec As President/CEO: "Espoo, Finland - StephenElop has been appointed Nokia president and CEO, ..."
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