Blu-ray, DVD, HDTV, Video info and more at WesleyTech.com

Last chance for a Lifetime update subscription for AnyDVD HD Blu-ray Ripper

Slysoft, the company behind the very popular AnyDVD HD software that can be used to rip & copy Blu-ray Discs and DVDs, has announced that they will be ending their Lifetime update subscriptions at the end of this year. So if you have ever been interested in purchasing a Lifetime update subscription for AnyDVD HD, now is the time to do it.

Slysoft is known for relentlessly updating their software to defeat every new copy protection that has ever been introduced, so purchasing a lifetime update subscription could definitely come in handy, especially if you’re a frequent Blu-ray or DVD movie disc ripper.

Here’s the notification that I received directly from Slysoft:

As of January 1st, 2011, SlySoft will discontinue the ‘lifetime’ update
subscription. This is being announced well in advance to give everybody
a final opportunity to acquire SlySoft products and product upgrades
with lifetime free updates and renew limited subscriptions to lifetime.

To make your decision even easier, you’ll get a 20% discount, applicable
to all products including upgrades from AnyDVD to AnyDVD HD and renewals
of update subscriptions for all SlySoft products.

This promotion is only valid until Friday, December 31 2010, so if you
are entertaining the thought of purchasing one or more of our products,
now is the right time to act …

If you plan to upgrade an AnyDVD license to AnyDVD HD, please do so prior
to purchasing subscription renewals:

I recommend using AnyDVD HD to copy Blu-ray Discs. AnyDVD HD can defeat all DVD and Blu-ray Disc copy protections, including the latest versions of BD+. You can also test out AnyDVD HD free for 21 days, by downloading it from here.

Facebook Photos Roku Channel Permissions Fixed

Back in August, we reported that the Roku Facebook Photos Channel was broken yet AGAIN, preventing Roku owners from viewing their own profile photos or photos from their friends’ profiles. I reached out to Roku support (the channel was created by Roku, not Facebook) in every way imaginable requesting a fix, but they did not respond whatsoever.

Below is a photo of the broken Facebook Photos Roku channel, with the photos not appearing while the app was not working properly.

Fortunately, an independent developer going by the username fashnek on the Roku forums has provided a fix for everyone to use.

This solution will let you get FULL functionality from the Facebook app, not just the partial functionality (like only profile pictures).

Facebook changed their permissions policies, and Roku has been slow to fix their app. This should fix it all for you:

1. Authorize the new permissions.

You won’t find that link anywhere else, because I hacked it together myself. It will redirect you to the shop site afterwards, but that’s not important.

2. If you haven’t already, generate the code.

You’re welcome! Spread it around!

Thank you fashnek! After clicking on the “Authorize the new permissions” link above from a browser that has a Facebook session going for your FB account, you should now be able to access all of the sections of the Facebook Photos Roku Channel! I’m very happy to be able to utilize the Facebook Photos channel once again. It’s just sad that Roku themselves ignored all of the customer complaints and wouldn’t provide a fix.

FaceVsion FV TouchCam N1 review

FaceVision sent us their FV TouchCam N1 to review. The FV TouchCam N1 is a high definition webcam that supports 720p video calling via Skype and is packed with an impressive list of hardware features. Let’s dive right into the official feature list.

FaceVsion FV TouchCam N1 review – Features

Description from the manufacturer: HD at anytime anywhere. FV TouchCamTM N1, a HD VideoCam with embedded H.264 encoder chip and dual microphones supporting beamforming technology, offers synchronized, crystal clear HD video (720p, 3X DVD resolution) and superior audio quality. Now Skype users can enjoy HD-quality video calling by using FV TouchCamTM N1. It helps you to build a closer relationship with friends and family or discuss with business partners effectively across difference time zones. Look Real. Feel Real. HD VideoCam supporting Skype HD video calls. HD 720p, 3x DVD resolutions.

Feature list from the manufacturer:
HD 720p video calls.
Auto Focus, up to 10 cm from the camera lens.
Wide Angle lens with 78 degree FOV.
Adaptive H.264 encoder for superb video experience.
Unidirectional dual microphones support beamforming technique for superb audio.
USB. True plug & play experience.

FaceVsion FV TouchCam N1 review – What’s inside the box?

As you can see, the FaceVsion FV TouchCam N1 comes with the camera itself, a mini USB cable, a hardware guide, a quick start guide and a mini CD containing Skype.

FaceVsion FV TouchCam N1 review – Still photo tests

Throughout this review, we compare the photo and video capturing abilities of the FaceVsion FV TouchCam N1 with our former webcam, the Logitech Quickcam Communicate Deluxe. Although the Logitech Quickcam Communicate Deluxe is not an HD webcam, we felt that the comparisons would provide valuable examples to our readers as the majority of desktops and laptop systems do not utilize a high definition webcam.

To test the out the still photo capability of the FaceVsion FV TouchCam N1, we snapped many sets of photos using our Logitech cam along with the FaceVsion cam.

These photos have been resized to fit well within this article, as the originals were too wide. On top, you can see a photo captured by the Logitech cam, on the bottom, a photo captured by the FaceVsion FV TouchCam N1. These photos were snapped using Debut Video Capture Software version 1.49.

Looking at the photo comparison above, we see that the FaceVsion FV TouchCam N1 captures a much larger image. It’s a much wider area of capture thanks to the higher resolution. In addition to the increased captured area, it also provides a sharper image (more pixels, providing higher definition and more clarity). The image color is also more realistic and true to life.

In addition to the set captured above, we shot many more still photo comparisons between the 2 webcams. Each time, the FaceVsion photos out-shined the Logitech photos by a very large margin. It’s apparent that the higher resolution and better hardware has a highly positive effect on the outcome of still image captures.

FaceVsion FV TouchCam N1 review – DailyBooth tests

In addition to the still photo test utilizing a desktop application, we compared the webcams using a real world online application. To do so, we used DailyBooth, which is an Adobe Flash based online photo sharing application.

The Logitech photo is on top and the FaceVsion photo is on the bottom. Once again, we can see that the FaceVsion TouchCam N1 HD WebCam outclasses the old webcam by producing a much more vivid, more life-like image with greater detail and less distortion.

FaceVsion FV TouchCam N1 review – Skype video calling tests

To test out the internet video calling capabilities of the FaceVsion FV TouchCam N1, we placed numerous video calls to our friends over the past few months. Our most recent video calls were made using Skype version 5.0.0.152. Embedded below is one of those calls that we recorded for this review.

The video demonstration above makes it “clear” that the FaceVsion FV TouchCam N1 produces excellent quality video and audio during Skype video calls, much better than the majority of other webcams available on the market.

Unfortunately, no matter how many times we tried, we could not get the Skype HD video calling to kick in, even after updating to the latest firmware on the FaceVsion FV TouchCam N1. We also checked the FaceVsion FAQ, taking all appropriate steps and making sure that we met all of the requirements for HD video calling, including sufficient bandwidth on both ends of the call (my internet connection speeds are 15 Mbps down, 1.93 Mbps up).

To be fair, FaceVsion probably has little control over this, as it is Skype that controls and determines how the HD video calling operates and functions. Nevertheless, it’s unfortunate that the primary advertised function of this HD webcam is difficult to utilize.

On a positive note, even without the high definition video calling kicking in, the FaceVsion FV TouchCam N1 still produces a very good looking video stream.

FaceVsion FV TouchCam N1 review – application compatibility

Unfortunately, the FaceVsion FV TouchCam N1 doesn’t ship with any of its own software. Instead, you must rely on 3rd party software for taking photos, recording video or making video calls online. Due to this fact, we tested out a variety of common Windows webcam software options to see what type of video they could capture from the FaceVsion FV TouchCam N1. In these tests, we’re reporting on the highest possible video resolution that each application could capture with a frame rate greater than 20 frames per second.

Windows (XP) Movie Maker 2.1.4020.80.
640×480 at 30 fps

Windows (Vista & 7) Live Movie Maker version 2011 Build 15.4.3502.0922
320×240 at 30 fps

NCH Debut Video Capture Software 1.49
640×480 at 30 fps

Pinnacle Studio Plus 12.1.3.6605
Had an option for 720×480 at 30 fps, but actually recorded in 640×480 at 30 fps

YouTube direct recording from browser
480×270 at 30 fps (YouTube calls this 360p)

As shown above, none of the applications that we tested could capture 720p (1280×720) video from the FaceVsion FV TouchCam N1.

FaceVsion FV TouchCam N1 review – Positives

On board H.264 HD video encoder chip frees up your computer’s CPU
Wide angle 78 degree Field of Vision lens
Excellent quality, life-like video
Good color reproduction in video and still photos
Dual microphones produce excellent audio quality
Quick adjusting auto focus
Captures fluid motion on video without blurring
Adjustable support clamp fits most LCD screens and notebooks
White light indicator let’s you know when the camera is “live”
Well designed and visually pleasing
Good build quality
Velco strap on USB cable

FaceVsion FV TouchCam N1 review Negatives

Skype HD video calls are difficult to establish
No webcam software included (Skype is provided on a mini CD)
720p video capture not compatible with most applications
Webcam not horizontally adjustable (left/right)

FaceVsion FV TouchCam N1 review – Summary and conclusions

We’ve been using the FaceVsion FV TouchCam N1 over the past few months for taking photos and making videos and we’re impressed with the hardware. The images, videos and audio output that this device produces are all superb.

The FaceVsion FV TouchCam N1 doesn’t ship with any of its own software, so you’ll have to make use of 3rd party software to use the device. The general compatibility with various 3rd party software products is good, meaning that every video application that we tested with was able to recognize that the FV TouchCam N1 was indeed a webcam capable of capturing some type of video. Unfortunately, the HD (720p) video compatibility with 3rd party apps appears to be poor, including Microsoft’s own Windows Movie Maker programs. It seems that most applications can only capture video from the FV TouchCam N1 at 640×480 maximum (but not in High Definition). Due to this, it appears that FaceVsion has some work to do with reaching out to Microsoft and other software vendors so that various programs will be able to utilize the full potential of the FaceVsion FV TouchCam N1. Either that, or they need to provide their own software for recording local video in 720p HD resolution.

Other than the inability to take full advantage of the HD capabilities, the FaceVsion FV TouchCam N1 is impressive. Even at 640×480 video resolution, the FV TouchCam N1 can create some very good looking, high quality video.

For us, it really makes things simpler for creating videos as we can just plop down in front of a PC with the FV FaceVsion N1 attached and start recording crystal clear video with the click of a mouse. It’s much easier than dragging out a dedicated video camcorder, recording video and then connecting it to a computer to upload and then edit files.

The bottom line is that the FaceVsion FV TouchCam N1 is still better than the majority of webcams out there, with its high quality image production, color and audio. Just don’t expect to do much High Definition video work with the FV TouchCam N1, due to the HD application compatibility problems mentioned above. Even so, it’s a worthy webcam upgrade and we’re sure that Video bloggers, video contest participants and frequent Skype video callers will all enjoy the FaceVsion FV TouchCam N1.

If you’re interested in grabbing this device, you can purchase the FaceVsion FV TouchCam N1 on Amazon.

Review update: FaceVsion FV TouchCam N1 Skype HD video calls established!

11/29/2010: After updating to the just-released Skype version 5.0.0.156, I was able to establish an HD video call using the FaceVsion FV TouchCam N1.

Once a Skype video call switches into HD video mode, you’ll notice that the video changes to a 16:9 widescreen aspect ratio, as shown in the screenshot below.

I also had the HD video call receiver take a Skype snapshot of my video stream while in HD mode, which you can see below (click the image to view the full HD version).

Hopefully this latest Skype update makes it easier for all FaceVsion FV TouchCam N1 owners to establish HD video calls.

Google TV hobbled by content providers

When Google TV was announced, there was quite the buzz. It was the most anticipated device of the year (right after the iPad). But once it was released, reality set in; content providers control what devices will stream their media.

Content providers apparently don’t care about the end user. Any computer can plug into an HDTV to view online content. Yet when Sony and Logitech release a purpose-built device with Google TV, the content providers decide this just won’t do; a full operating system must be in the mix to view their content, or at least a licensing agreement exclusive to the device (a la PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360).

It’s true that content providers have contractual obligations with each production company, providing different types of revenue for different types of media. A TV program broadcast on cable receives one royalty rate, while the same program streaming online gets another. The producers clearly want to maximize their profits, so they want to control where their content can be viewed.

It just doesn’t make sense though. If I watch Modern Family on ABC over-the-air, I watch about eight minutes of commercials. I watch it on Hulu, and I get between six and ten minutes of commercials. TV ads are more expensive, of course, because they reach a larger audience, but since they’re already streaming the content on Hulu.com, what does it matter if I stream it to my MacBook and display it on my TV or if I stream it to a purpose-built set-top box like the Logitech Review?

Here’s a preliminary list of websites blocking content to Google TV devices:

• ABC
• CBS
• NBC
• Hulu
• Fox
• SyFy
• Comedy Central
• MTV
• VH1
• Nickelodeon

Google and Hulu are in talks to bring a Hulu Plus subscription-based application to the Google TV world, but it is probably too little, too late. Google really dropped the ball on securing content licenses.

Laura Weinstein asks the question,

Imagine the protests that would ensue if Internet services arbitrarily blocked video only to Internet Explorer or Firefox browsers! Or if Hulu and the other networks decided they’d refuse to stream video to HP and Dell computers because those manufacturers hadn’t made deals with the services to the latter’s liking.

What do you think? Did Google screw up, or are the content providers just being petty?

New Google TV features

So close to CES 2011, not a lot of companies are making announcements. Not true for Google, who just announced four new features coming to Google TV, just in time for the holiday.

• Netflix – A totally revamped UI for Netflix on Google TV makes it easier to browse and watch movies and TV shows in Netflix’s streaming catalogue.
• Dual View – Watch TV and the use the web how you want, now that you can resize your screens and move them around to your liking.
• Remote Control App – Starting today you can use your Android phone as a TV remote. Even change the channel with your voice. Find ‘Google TV Remote’ in Android Market.
  
  
  
• Movie Results – Find the movie you want to watch in the our new movie search results page. Finds movies that are on TV, the web, Netflix, and Amazon VOD.

First look: Google Cr-48 Chrome OS notebook

I got a Christmas surprise in the mail today from Google. I got home from work to find a plain brown box of medium weight waiting for me. It didn’t have any distinguishing features, and didn’t have a company name, just the name of an individual. I opened it up and discovered a brand new Chrome OS notebook from Google as part of the Chrome Pilot Program.

The Cr-48 notebook is a nondescript device, very unassuming with a matte black, rubberized finish all over. No logos, no decals, nothing. It’s lightweight, and has a speedy boot up.

The first thing I did was pull out my Flip Ultra HD and made a video to share with you. Check it out. (More thoughts after the video – apologies for the DailyMotion ads.)




This notebook clearly couldn’t replace my MacBook permanently. For one example: I couldn’t edit and upload this video on the Cr-48. I tried plugging the Flip into the Cr-48 to see if I could upload an unedited video, and the file option wouldn’t show the connected camera. I also could not use the Adobe applications I use occasionally. Of course the vast majority of my own personal computer usage is within my Chrome browser. Google Docs, Blogger, YouTube, Netflix, Hulu, Pandora, Facebook, etc. I also can’t sync my iPod up (which I hardly ever use).

The biggest drawback I’ve seen so far for every-day use is its inability to playback HD video. This is probably due to hardware limitations. SD video looks adequate enough, but it is notable.

I think I will use the Cr-48 as my primary personal computer for a while and see how far I can go before I have to pull my MacBook out for something that requires installed software, or saved files. I’ll be providing updates on this test in the future.

If you don’t think you could live with a cloud-based operating system, try this quiz out. (I scored a 10).

If you have any questions about the Cr-48′s capabilities, let me know and I’ll try it out on camera and post it.

The mystery of the missing iPad AirPlay button

I was handed an iPad and asked, “Where did the AirPlay button go?” That’s a good question. The iPad was loaded with iOS 4.2.1 and AirPlay was working fine, but now the button was missing from all of the apps on which it was once available.

I took my own iPad out to make sure it was still there. It was. Both iPads were upgraded on the same day to 4.2.1. Both iPads used the same network to stream to the same AppleTV. You may have seen the demo. Yet his iPad doesn’t have the AirPlay button, and mine does.

I tried the Video app, iPod app, YouTube app, Netflix, and Photos. None of the apps had the AirPlay button they once had.

I did a bit of snooping online, and found a few other people with the same problem. Did Apple roll out AirPlay prematurely?

This Apple Support forum thread points to a bug when the language is changed on the device.

Changing language (English > French > English) brought back the AirPlay icon on iPod on my iPhone 3Gs v4.2.1. It came back on the first switch to French, and also when I switched back to English. Prior suggestions of rebooting did not correct the situation.

This seems out of character for Apple, who has a long history of reliable software.

UPDATE with solution

The AirPlay button does not appear on the device while it is connected to 3G. AirPlay requires a WiFi or Bluetooth connection. This iPad didn’t automatically switch to WiFi, so I manually switched it and the button reappeared.

This seems like the the same problem other people have had. Their solutions must have reset their connection to WiFi.