Nikon Announces the D5300, Its First DSLR with Built-In WiFi

Adding to the deluge of camera announcements this month, Nikon chose today to release an update to its D5200 consumer DSLR. The new camera, the Nikon D5300 Cheap, isn't a huge breakthrough, but Nikon managed to pack in a few new features that'll help the shooter keep up with competitors like the Canon 70D.

There are a few updates to the camera, but the headliner is the fact that Nikon has finally added built-in WiFi - no need to go out and purchase a WU-1a adapter. It's also the first Nikon SLR to feature built-in GPS.

The new WiFi and GPS features are joined by an "enhanced" 24.2-megapixel DX sensor without an anti-aliasing filter (say hello to sharper images and potential moire) and a powerful EXPEED 4 processor. That translates into the ability to shoot 1080/60p video, 5fps continuous in both live view and via the viewfinder, a max ISO of 25,600 and better battery life to boot (700 shots vs 500).

Other notable features include a 3.2-inch 1.04M-dot articulating display and a 39-point AF system that works with Nikon's Scene Recognition System for metering. Here are a few more pictures:

For more info on the new camera, feel free to head over to Nikon's press room and read up on the details. The D5300 will be available sometime this month in Black, Red and Gray for $800, or in a kit with the AF-S 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR lens for $1,400.

Source: Petapixel

Nikon D5300 DSLR Unveiled, 24.2MP Successor to the D5200

Posted on 18. Oct, 2013 by Steve in Digital Cameras

Nikon D5300 Buy Cheap-with-18-140mm-Nikkor-lens.jpg">Nikon has unveiled the successor to the popular Nikon D5200 digital SLR, which the company launched almost one year ago, the new model is named Nikon D5300. The new Nikon D5300 will start to ship early next month with a retail price that is just under $800 for the camera body. The D5300 and the D5200 both share a similar body design, but there are minor differences or improvements that the D5300 has to offer buyers.

The improvements list is short and consists of features that enhance the photographic abilities of the camera and a feature that brings the camera up-to-date with a new digital camera market trend.

Improvements that will help the overall performance of the new Nikon D5300 over the now-old D5200 include a newly designed and higher resolution CMOS image sensor along with a brand new image processor.

Between the Nikon D5200 and the new Nikon D5300, the 24.2 megapixel D5300 has just 0.1 megapixels more resolution than the 24.1 megapixel D5200, however the D5300′s sensor has no built-in OLPF (optical low pass filter) and Nikon say's that will help with image clarity, both the old D5200 and new D5300 use similarly sized DX-format CMOS image sensors.

Nikon D5300 digital SLR gallery:

The new image processor that you will be getting with the upcoming Nikon D5300 is Nikon's newly developed EXPEED 4 image processor. According to Nikon, the new EXPEED 4 offers fast performance while 'maximizing energy efficiency, reducing image noise and delivering true-to-life colors'. The D5200 digital SLR features the EXPEED 3 image processing engine.

After the new image sensor and processor the only other major new feature included with the new Nikon D5300 digital SLR is Wi-Fi. The camera will be shipped with Wi-Fi capabilities built-in that don't need any external accessories like the Nikon WU-1a. The built-in Wi-Fi will let you pair your D5300 to your mobile devices iOS or Android after you install the Nikon Wireless Mobile Utility free app. Also the Wi-Fi working with the cameras built-in GPS can geo-tag files all without external accessories.

However, with the Nikon Wireless Mobile Utility app you will be able to complete functions like remote shooting where you can use your mobile device as a live view enabled wireless remote for snapping photos, wireless transferring of photo and video files, manual file upload for sending files to your mobile device even when you're not paired to the device (the image just downloads later when you are paired).

After you consider all of those differences the Nikon D5300 isn't really a radically new camera compared to the out-going Nikon D5200. However nobody should have expected a totally different camera given the very short gap between the two cameras launches, the D5200 was launched November of last year.

Some big similarities include Full HD 1080p Video Recording at 60 fps, continuous Shooting up to 5 fps, expandable ISO from 100-25600, 39-Point auto-focusing system, active D-Lighting and built-in HDR, Nikon F mount support, and an at eye-level pentamirror optical viewfinder.

From an exterior design perspective you can really see the lack of a re-design in the D5300 compared to the D5200. The only difference in looks is the vari-angle LCD is now 3.2-inches with the D5300 instead of 3.1-inches. Even with the color options the new Nikon D5300 is much like the D5200, the new camera will be offered in Black, Red or Grey colors.

Camera seller B&H Photo Video is offering pre-orders for the Nikon D5300 body at $796.95 (same price for each color) and they are offering a body+14-140mm telephoto zoom lens kit (pictured first above) for $1,396.95. With this particular retailer you can expect your pre-ordered D5300 camera to ship on November 14, 2013 according to notice put on each listing.

Tags: 1080p, 3.2-inch Vari-Angle LCD, 720p hd, active D-Lighting, auto-focus system, cmos sensor, digital camera, dslr, DX-format DSLR, full hd, FullHD, gps, hd, hdmi, hdr, image stabilization system, interchangeable lens, memory card, Nikon, Nikon D5300, Nikon dslr, Nikon Expeed 4, Nikon F mount, Nikon Wireless Mobile Utility, optical low pass filter, optical viewfinder, pentamirror optical viewfinder, sd memory card, sdhc memory card, sdxc memory card, tilt LCD, Video, wi-fi

Source: Digital-cameras-planet

New Zealand Herald

<flower mound pumpkin patchp>

Firefighters are deploying "high-risk" backburning strategies in the NSW Blue Mountains as they fight to save lives and homes.

Bushfires ravage communities in Australia

Video

Raw: Fire destroys homes in Australia

Video

Bushfires ravage communities in Australia

Video

Raw: Fire destroys homes in Australia

Video

Former Labour MP Chris Carter says he was lucky to escape possible death after a suicide car bomb exploded metres away from...

Carter's baptism of fire in Kabul job Carter's baptism of fire in Kabul job

Two men have been charged with abduction after they allegedly tried to drag a 22-year-old woman into a van at 9.30pm in Dunedin on Saturday night.

Evangelist's visit sparks warning Crushing blow to $330k Aston Martin

JPMorgan poised to pay $13b settlement

JPMorgan Chase & Co. has tentatively agreed to pay $US13 billion to settle allegations surrounding the quality of mortgage-backed...

When emails go unanswered

How do you feel when your emails go unanswered? Well, not just emails, but phone calls too? Goodness I HATE, HATE, HATE this. It's not just here or there, it is...

Photo

Day in Photos - October 21

Check out the best in today's news photos from around the world.

A suicide bomber has slammed his explosive-laden car into a busy cafe in Iraq's capital, part of a day of violence across the country that killed 45 people, authorities...

Photos: NSW bushfires

Photos Egypt police, protesters clash at Cairo university

Apple Watch: Hot fusion

A couple of weeks back, I talked about the new iMac with the latest generation of Intel CPU, the Haswell, and mentioned...

All Blacks: Smith work in progress at centre

Project Ben Smith, in the best traditions of major initiatives, may take longer to complete than initial forecasts.

Brown inquiry to look at job reference

An Auckland Council inquiry into mayor Len Brown's extra-marital spending is being widened to look at a reference the mayor...

Markets inherently involve a huge amount of uncertainty. Good traders and investors thrive on that knowledge and look for...

Nick McDonald: Trading lessons from the America's Cup Nick McDonald: Trading lessons from the America's Cup

This week, the Govt made a decision that will cost voters in their 20s and 30s billions of dollars in lost savings says Bernard Hickey.

Mary Holm: It's a hard road having to start again Inside Money: What happens if markets go south 1

$330,000 Aston Martin's crushing and expensive blow

2

Brown pulls out of first post-affair public appearance

3

111's fatal slip-ups

4

Evangelist's visit sparks warning

5

A house in Auckland ... or an island?

Turkey: Turkish delight

The mystical Norfolk Island

Photos Morrissey sets record straight on sexuality Cinema chain gives texters an aisle Blog: Exploring body image Craving better kids' menus

Nici Wickes: The hungry and the heartbroken

For many, food is a mere hope not a given writes Nici Wickes.

Hey, good-looking (+recipes) Retail Therapy: This week's fashion and shopping news Dixon's king of the track again

Ford's self parking car

Video

0° 0°
Full forecast

Watch Latest Forecast

Video

Countdown to Labour Weekend

A house in Auckland ... or an island?

A house or an island

Photos Inner circle can provide equity and emotional support Small Business: Company culture - Halfdan Hansen Book your ad Driven Property Comm Property Death Notices Public Notices
Source: Nzherald

Eek! 9 Quick Halloween costumes for TV geeks

Unless you're a Halloween aficionado, you probably haven't started putting together your costume yet. Good news! We have some great ideas you and your friends (or family) can use to hit the party circuit or wow your neighbors in your unending quest for candy!

Remember, your gender, size, hair color - none of it matters. Halloween is all about playing dress-up so go for the gusto. Boys can be girls and girls boys. There's no reason not to expect a complete role reversal for any of these costumes for two, as long as you're having fun!

Jesse Pinkman (Aaron Paul) and Walter White (Bryan Cranston)

See the photo above. Face it. It's not every day of the year that your neighbors are going to be happy to see two meth cooks showing up on their doorstep demanding candy. But with the ever-present Breaking Bad withdrawal still overtaking your fellow countrymen, now is the perfect time to take advantage. Suit up in yellow, don a pair of headphones covered in orange and the odds are in your favor you'll be the most welcome drug dealers on the Halloween circuit.

2 Broke Girls

Candy corn is orange and yellow. So are our first two TV-inspired costume choices! Coincidence? I think not. It's Halloween, where else would you expect to find 2 Broke Girls other than begging door-to-door for candy? Brown hair, blonde hair, boots, pumps and costume jewelry set off these groovy '70s throwback waitress uniforms in colors only meth dealers and Halloween can love. You can be Max (Kat Dennings) or Caroline (Beth Behrs) and if your group expands beyond that, they never seem to be at a loss for stragglers, so yours can grow, too!

Doctor Who (Matt Smith) and his Companion Clara Oswald (Jenna-Louise Coleman)

Thrift store finds, slicked-back hair and a motorcycle wouldn't hurt to help to complete this ensemble. As much fun as it would be tote around a full-sized TARDIS to really drive it home, using a British accent should seal the deal.

Mike (Billy Gardell) and Molly (Melissa McCarthy)

Sure, you could go with Mike in plainclothes, but that would take some of the punch out of the costume. You can find a children's police badge, put it on a blue shirt and hit the streets. Plus, Melissa McCarthy is one of the biggest talents in entertainment. Can't lose!

The Green Arrow (Stephen Amell) and The Black Canary (Caity Lotz)

If you don't normally have leather in your wardrobe, nobody's going to hold it against you if you go for all black. Just get those masks right. Black around the eyes for the Green Arrow and a genuine black mask for the Black Canary. A green hoodie, a blonde wig and some black gloves will have you saving lives in no time flat.

Young Samantha and Carrie from The Carrie Diaries

They were fashion icons in their adult years, but throwing back to the '80s will be even more fun as young Samantha Jones (Lindsey Gort) and Carrie Bradshaw ( AnnaSophia Robb). Any outfit from the decade will do; the more eclectic, the better!

Any of the Orphan Black ladies

Shown in the photo are incarnations Sarah, Alison and Cosima, but there are at least three others that we know of already - all played by the incomparable Tatiana Maslany. She looks so different as each character that you and your friends can easily pull off being as few or as many of them as you want. The more that go, the better you'll look!

The Draper family

Hey, mom! Are you taking Halloween off this year and sending dad out with the kids? Why not dress them all up Mad Men style? Daddy can look splendid as Don Draper (Jon Hamm) and your little ones can surely fit the molds of as many Draper children as you need. Heck, borrow one from the neighbors if you need a complete set! Using this photo, you can even give them lessons on how to look baffled as they contemplate heading up to the house for candy.

Bonus: Easiest costume - Under the Dome

Do you have a bubble umbrella? Done! Just continually walk up to your friends and press your hands against it, pretending to scream as if they can't hear you. Boom! Easiest costume in the world. Thanks, CBS and Stephen King!

There are so many ideas you can take out of your closet, your attic or discover at the local thrift store that only require a little effort and a lot of imagination. Run down your favorite list of TV shows, get to work and have a fabulous Halloween!

Breaking Bad image courtesy of Frank Ockenfels/AMC; Two Broke Girls image courtesy of Darren Michaels/Warner Bros; Doctor Who image courtesy of BBC America; Mike & Molly image courtesy of Cliff Lipson/CBS; Arrow/Black Canary image courtesy of Jack Rowand/The CW; The Carrie Diaries image courtesy of Patrick Harbron/The CW; Orphan Black image courtesy of BBC America; Mad Men image courtesy of Jamie Trueblood/AMC; Under the Dome image courtesy of CBS
Source: Sheknows

Community calendar: Oct. 17 edition

<charlie brown and the great pumpkin full moviep>CRYSTAL COAST REPUBLICAN WOMEN FASHION SHOW AND LUNCHEON Oct. 18, Dunes Club, Atlantic Beach. Cost is $30. Deadline for purchasing tickets was Oct. 9. No tickets will be sold at the door. A social hour with cash bar will start at 11 a.m. There will be door prizes. For reservations, call Linda at 726-4086 or Ann at 726-0048.

AARP DRIVER SAFETY CLASS 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Oct. 18, Leon Mann Jr. Enrichment Center, Morehead City. $12 for members, $14 for nonmembers. Call 247-2930 for details.

TURTLE TALK 10 a.m. Oct. 18, Nov. 29 and Dec. 20, Fort Macon State Park. Meet at the Visitor Center to learn about the loggerhead sea turtle. All species of turtles and how common they are on our beaches will be discussed.

BEAUFORT ELEMENTARY FALL FESTIVAL 5-8 p.m. Oct. 18, 110 Carraway Drive, Beaufort. Slides, silent auction, food, games, haunted house, bake sale and more. Proceeds go to the school for supplies, technology and teacher needs.

ANNUAL CARTERET LITERACY COUNCIL'S SPELLING BEE Oct. 18, The History Place, Morehead City. Spots are open for spellers and teams to compete. Prizes will be awarded. Visit www.carteretliteracy.org or call 808-2020 to participate. Tickets for this event are $25 per person and are available at the Train Depot in Morehead City.

MOORS AND MCCUMBER Oct. 18, Trent River Coffee Co., and Oct. 19, Clawson's 1905, Beaufort. Down East FolkArts Society concert. Tickets are $15, $12 for members and active military or $8 for students. Reserve by texting or calling 646-4657, or see www.downeastfolkarts.org.

MOREHEAD CITY LIONS CLUB YARD SALE 7 a.m.-noon Oct. 19, Curb Market, 13th and Evans streets, Morehead City.

BOOK SALE 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Oct. 19, Twice Read Tales, Newport. The Friends of the Newport Library is hosting the bag sale. Bags will provided and can be stuffed for $3.

CARTERET COUNTY BIG SWEEP Oct. 19. To get involved, volunteers can visit www.ncbigsweep.org or call the volunteer hotline at 800-27-sweep.

ART IN THE PARK CRAFTSMEN SHOW 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Oct. 19, Fort Benjamin Park and Recreation Center, 100 McQueen Ave., Newport. Contact Darlene Austin at darlenea@carteretcountygov.org or 504-4263 to become a vendor. Booths are $30 and benefit Carteret County Special Olympics.

LOBSTER FEST noon-4 p.m. Oct. 19, St. Francis by the Sea, Salter Path. Live lobsters are $16, cooked are $19, and full meals with coleslaw, potato salad, roll, homemade dessert and tea or water are $24 (eat in or take out). Call the church at 240-2388 to reserve lobsters and meals.

CLIP FOR THE CURE business hours, Oct. 19, SmartStyle inside Walmart, Morehead City. Proceeds from the salon's fundraising event go to the Regis Foundation for Breast Cancer Research, which supports early diagnosis, prevention, treatment and research to find a cure for breast cancer. For more information, see www.ClipForTheCure.org or call 726-1271.

HORSE SENSE AND SURVIVAL TOUR Oct. 19 with Cape Lookout National Seashore at Shackleford Banks. Reservations are required to join a ranger for a four-hour walking trip to find the wild horses of Shackleford Banks and watch their behavior. There is a fee for the ferry service. Call 728-2250 ext. 0 for reservations and more information. Also, Nov. 16.

CRYSTAL COAST CON 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Oct. 19, MacDaddy's, Cape Carteret. Visit www.MyMacDaddys.com for details.

BOATING EDUCATION SEMINAR: LOCAL KNOWLEDGE OF AREA WATERS Oct. 19, Carteret Community College. Certified Instructors of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary will offer this one-half day seminar, which will assist recreational boaters in learning to navigate area waters more safely. A study of area charts, buoys, day markers and other aids to navigation will be presented, as well as a review of basic rules of the road. Cost is $20. A discount for families is available. Pre-registration is required. For additional information or to register, contact Ben Crabtree at 808-3091 or e-mail benandlibbie1@embarqmail.com.

BOOKSIGNING WITH RANGER PAUL BRANCH JR. 1-3:30 p.m. Oct. 19, Fort Macon State Park, 2303 East Fort Macon Road, Atlantic Beach. He will sign copies of his new pictorial history book, Fort Macon.

BEAUFORT HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION'S FALL PARTY 6:30 p.m. Oct. 19, 105 Front Street, Beaufort. Held at the historic Duncan House, home of Bill and Deborah Tuttle, this fundraising party features lively music by The Ginger Thompson Band, bold impressionist artwork by Trisha Adams and an exquisite menu by Beaufort Grocery. Tickets are $75 each and sponsorship opportunities are available. For more information, contact the BHA at 728-5225 or go to www.beauforthistoricsite.org.

MOONLIGHT ESCAPADES FUN RUN FUNDRAISER 8 p.m. Oct. 19, Friendly Market on Friendly Road and Bridges Street extension in Morehead City. Fundraiser for Crystal Coast Hospice House. The approximately 3K route will follow Bridges Street extension to the Morehead City Plaza Shopping Center, crossing Arendell Street to finish at the Hampton Inn of Morehead City. Fabulous frock prizes will be awarded based on the "brightest" individual and group originality. Cost is $25 each or, for groups of six or more, $20. Register and pay by Oct. 9 to receive a t-shirt. Tax deductible. Register at www.crystalcoasthospicehouse.org.

RALPH STANLEY WITH THE CLINCH MOUNTAIN BOYS BAND 8 p.m. Oct. 19, The Morehead Center, Arendell Street, Morehead City. Tickets are $30 and $40 each. Call 726-1511 or visit www.themoreheadcenter.com for details.

.

FALL "IN THE WATER" MEET 1-5:30 p.m. Oct. 20, N.C. Maritime Museum's Gallants Channel Annex in Beaufort. Hosted by NCMM chapter of the Traditional Small Craft Association. Fleet of spritsail skiffs will be there and volunteers will be taking visitors for boat rides. Dinner is a $10 ($5 for members) fund-raising barbecue.

ATLANTIC WELCOME SIGN DEDICATION 3 p.m. Oct. 20, hosted by the Atlantic Civic & Beautification Committee. The dedication will be in honor of Elmo Gaskill Jr.

EIGHTH ANNUAL CRYSTAL COAST UPPER DIVISION TALENT SHOW 7 p.m. Oct. 21, Croatan High School Auditorium. For grades nine to age 21. Email barbara.swigart@carteretk2.org to register. Entry deadline was Oct. 14.

BROADWAY STAR GAY WILLIS 7 p.m. Oct. 24, Glad Tidings Church, Morehead City. Reception follows to honor this Beaufort native. Tickets by subscription or $35 at the door. Call 726-1152.

LUNCH WITH A DASH OF HISTORY, The History Place, 1008 Arendell St., Morehead City. Rodney Kemp leads the presentations on select Fridays. Lunch is served at 11:30 a.m., and the presentation is noon-1 p.m. Lunch is $12 for members or $15 for nonmembers. For the presentation only, cost is $5 for members or $8 for nonmembers. Call 247-7533 by Wednesday before the event to reserve a lunch. Topics are Up West and Down East: The Geography of Carteret County, Oct. 25; the community of Davis, Nov. 1; and Rodney's annual Christmas Show, Dec. 13.

HALLOWEEN CARNIVAL 6-8 p.m. Oct. 25, Emerald Isle Parks and Recreation, Emerald Isle. Glow-in-the-dark mural, face painting, cake walk, costume contest at 7 p.m., liver toss, hanging donut eating contest, ID kits by the EI Police Department and more. Admission is two bags of individually wrapped candy per child. Candy will be distributed back to children at departure. Please bring a bag for your goodies. Call 354-6350 for more information.

MOREHEAD MANOR 7:30 p.m.-midnight Oct. 25-26, Crystal Coast Civic Center, Morehead City. Presented by the creators of "The House on North Forty" and the young professionals group, Connect Carteret. Tickets are $10 or $20 for "RIP," on sale at Ioannis Bar & Grill, Halloween Express and Merv's Joke Shop. Rated PG-13. For more information, log on to Morehead Manor's Facebook page.

FIRST BLACKBEARD'S PIRATE JAMBOREE Oct. 25-27, Ocracoke Island. Presented by the Ocracoke Foundation. For details, visit the website www.piratejamboree.com or the Facebook page: Ocracoke Pirate Jamboree.

FRIDAY NIGHT DANCES 7:30-11 p.m. Fridays, Leon Mann Jr. Enrichment Center, Morehead City. For adults over 50, the cost is $5. For more Information, call 247-2626. Entertainment is Halloween Party Costumes Or Not, Chuck Eatmon, Oct. 25; Tom Bone, Nov. 1, Dec. 6 and Jan. 3, and Chuck Eatmon, Nov. 15, Dec. 20 and Jan. 17.

NORTH CAROLINA A-SCARE-IUM Oct. 25, N.C. Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores. Great disguises win prizes in this unique Halloween party for grown-ups that haunts the aquarium waters after dark. Music, food, dancing and games are included in admission. Beer and wine will be for sale. Must be 21 to attend, and costumes are required. See the Pine Knoll Shores section of www.ncaquariums.com or call 247-4003 for details.

CETACEAN FASCINATION 6:30 p.m. Oct. 25, N.C. Maritime Museum, Gallants Channel annex. Come make discoveries during a peek behind the scenes of where whalebones are being prepared for study and display. Meet at gate 3 of the Gallants Channel Annex on West Beaufort Road. Free event.

PURVIS CHAPEL FUNDRAISER WITH AUTHOR DAVID CECELSKI AND AME ZION STATE CHOIR 6:30 p.m. Oct. 25, Purvis Chapel, 215 Craven St. Beaufort Woman's Club is hosting this event that will raise funds for church preservation and restoration. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased at the Beaufort Historical Association's Welcome Center, Beaufort; The History Place, Morehead City; and from members of the Beaufort Woman's Club. To reserve tickets from a club member, please call 728-3917, 728-7365 or 838-6191.

FRIGHT NIGHT 5:30-8 p.m. Oct. 25, N.C. Maritime Museum, Beaufort. The museum's exhibit hall comes to life in a haunted kind of way, complete with sweet treats and a few tricks. Fun for ghouls and goblins of all ages. Proceeds from this partnership event benefit museum education programs and East Carteret High School Drama Club. Cost is $6 for adults and $3 for children 18 and under.

ROY WILLIS COLLECTION AUCTION Oct. 25-26, Core Sound Waterfowl Museum and Heritage Center, Harkers Island. First of three auctions to be held of the extensive collection of hunting decoys by the late collector and carver Roy Willis of Stacy. The auction will begin at 6 p.m. Oct. 25 with a special preview and event at 3:30 p.m. The auction resumes 9:30 a.m. Oct. 26. More than 600 lots from this collection will be sold. An online catalog with photographs is at www.HouseAuctionCompany.com.

CURB MARKET OPEN 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Oct. 26, 13th and Evans streets, Morehead City, in conjunction with the Promise Land Society Festival.

FISH TOWNE REGATTA 9 a.m. Oct. 26, Backstreet Pub, Beaufort. Preregister at the pub Oct. 25. Sailing and paddling event.

PROMISE LAND SOCIETY FESTIVAL 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Oct. 26, 14th Street between Shepard and Shackleford streets, Morehead City. There will be crafts, games, history and music. Free.

ANNUAL CAROLINA KITE FEST 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Oct. 26-27, with a special night flying session 6 p.m. Oct. 26, at the public beach access known as "The Circle" in Atlantic Beach. Events include kite flying, games, team flying, Indian Fighter kites, big kites and sled kite building for children. Sponsored by Kites Unlimited, Atlantic Station Shopping Center, Atlantic Beach.

ANNUAL RALLY FOR AMERICA 1-4 p.m. Oct. 26, Fort Benjamin Park, Newport. Hosted by the Crystal Coast Republican Men's Club, there will be hot dogs and drinks available for a donation and many Republican officials and candidates in attendance, including Congressman Walter B. Jones, Sen. Norman Sanderson, Representatives Pat McElraft and Michael Speciale, N.C. Supreme Court candidate Bob Hunter, U.S. Senate candidate Greg Brannon and many others.

CAROLINA MARITIME MODEL SOCIETY 2 p.m. Oct. 26, N.C. Maritime Museum, Beaufort. The society exists to promote the production of high quality ship models and encourage members and the public to participate in the craft that is as old as shipbuilding itself. All meetings are open to the public. Call 728-7317 for details.

BIRDING AT NORTH RIVER FARMS in Smyrna 8 to 11 a.m. Oct. 27, Nov. 10 and Dec. 15. N.C. Coastal Federation program. Join local birding expert Joanne Powell. The group will look for resident birds as well as fall migrants that might include warblers, raptors and waterfowl in farm fields, along roadside shrubs and in restored marsh habitat. Participants are asked to bring their own binoculars, as well as water and a snack, and to dress appropriately for the weather and for moderate walking in open fields and along dirt roads. There are no restroom facilities or shelter. The group will meet at the Crossroads Minimart in Otway at the intersection of Highway 70 and Harkers Island Road at 8 a.m. The group will carpool to the farm and return to the Minimart by 11 a.m. In case of rain, the event will be rescheduled. These tours are free for N.C. Coastal Federation members and $15 for non-members. Registration, which is required and can be done by calling 393-8185, will include a one-year membership.

FALL FESTIVAL 5 p.m. Oct. 27, Cherry Point Baptist Church, Havelock. Non-scary costume contest, best homemade hat contest and bounce houses. Games and dinner from 6-7 p.m. Pie eating contest at 7 p.m., hayride and trunk or treat until 8 p.m. For details, call 447-5462.

ANNUAL PUMPKIN CARD PARTY 1-5 p.m. Oct. 29, First Presbyterian Church, 1604 Arendell St., Morehead City. Tickets are $14, sponsored by Carteret General Hospital auxiliary volunteers. There will be bridge, canasta, dominoes, scrabble or game of choice, plus snacks, a 50/50 raffle and door prizes. To reserve, call 648-8017 or 222-0233.

TRICK-OR-TREAT UNDER THE SEA Oct. 29-30, N.C. Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores. An aquatic twist makes this Halloween event a treat for all ages. Kids trick-or-treat indoors among the exhibits, show off their costumes and enjoy other fun and games. Special admission price: $8 per person, $6 for members, ages 2 and under free. Daily admission tickets do not apply for this special event. Buy advance tickets online. See the Pine Knoll Shores section of www.ncaquariums.com or call 247-4003 for details.

BROWN BAG GAM noon Oct. 30, N.C. Maritime Museum, Beaufort. Gam is defined as a friendly conversation between whalers or to visit with another ship while at sea. Pack a lunch and come learn about North Carolina's rich coastal environment and culture. For specific topics, visit www.ncmaritimemuseums.com. Call 728-7317 for details.

MOONLIGHT KAYAK ADVENTURE 3:30-6:30 p.m. Oct. 31, N.C. Maritime Museum, Beaufort. Watch the moon rise over the water on a Halloween inspired kayak tour. Kayaks and navigation lights provided. Space limited. For intermediate or advanced paddlers ages 12 and up, though under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Reservations needed; cost is $50. Call 728-7317.

LA MUSIQUE CLUB 24TH ANNUAL PAGEANT 6:30 p.m. Nov. 2 at West Carteret High School. Categories are for ages 3-4, kindergarten-second grade, third-fifth grade, sixth-eighth grade and high school. No charge to enter. Contact Rachel Mundine, 223-4538, for an application or more information.

MOVIES IN THE PARK "Hotel Transylvania" 6:30 p.m. Nov. 2, Fort Benjamin Park, Newport. Pack a picnic, and bring a blanket or beach chair. The Movie will be shown outside, the concession stand will sell popcorn, candy and soft drinks. In the case of inclement weather, movies will be shown inside. "Rise of the Guardians" will be shown Dec. 7.

BIRD HIKE 10 a.m. Nov. 4, Fort Macon State Park. Meet at the Visitor Center and take a leisurely hike to identify birds in the area.

MEDICARE OR MEDICAID: WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE? 10:30 a.m. Nov. 5, Leon Mann Jr. Enrichment Center, 3820 Galantis Drive, Morehead City. Brief presentation of information followed by question and answer period is the fifth in the seminar series offered on the first Tuesday of each month by the senior center. Admission is free. Call 247-2626 for directions or more information.

OIL PRESSURE: CETACEANS IN THE CROSSHAIRS OF OUR SEARCH FOR OIL 7 p.m. Nov. 6, N.C. Maritime Museum, Beaufort. From hunting whales to seismic exploration, our search for oil in marine environments continues to involve whales in some way or another. Join Museum Natural Science Curator Keith Rittmaster for this free, after-hours presentation.

FIRST THURSDAY AT THE TEACHERAGE 10:30 a.m. Nov. 7, at the Teacherage in Newport. Held the first Thursday of each month to hear and share stories and experiences in Newport's history. Each month features a central storyteller. Nov. 7 is Charles Hill and Dec. 5 is Mon Garner. For more information, contact Dianne Johnson at 241-1793.

MISTLETOE MAGIC HOLIDAY GIFT SHOW 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Nov. 9, Crystal Coast Civic Center, Morehead City. Handcrafted wreaths, decorations, jewelry, photography, pottery, woodwork and more. Admission is $3, $2 for seniors and free for children 12 and under. Bring a can food item to be donated to a local food bank. Visit www.crystalcoastcivicctr.com or call 247-3883 for details.

ST. PAUL'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH BAZAAR 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Nov. 9, St. Paul's Episcopal Church, Beaufort. Hosted by the church's women's group, the bazaar will feature handmade crafts, books, toys, Christmas décor, kitchen gadgets, unique treasures, frozen and baked holiday food, jams, pickles and more. There will also be a raffle (tickets are $1 each) and Silent Auction. A luncheon will be served from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. with take-out lunches from 11-11:30 a.m. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased in advance or at the door. Proceeds benefit local outreach projects supported by the ECW. For tickets and additional information about the bazaar, call 728-3324, Roberta Brown, Bazaar Chair.

SECOND CRAFTS ON THE CRYSTAL COAST Nov. 10, Crystal Coast Civic Center, Morehead City. Tickets are $50 for VIP and $40 general admission. For details, visit www.crystalcoastbeer.eventbrite.com.

OUTER BANKS WILDLIFE SHELTER'S TASTE OF CARTERET COUNTY Nov. 15, Crystal Coast County Civic Center, Morehead City. Tickets are $35 and include dinner provided by more than 20 of the restaurants in the county and include an open bar and live entertainment, plus a silent auction rivaled by none other. Call the shelter at 240-1200 to purchase tickets or for more information.

THE N.C. WRITERS' NETWORK 2013 FALL CONFERENCE Nov. 15-17, Holiday Inn Resort, Wrightsville Beach. Price varies. Workshops and master classes in creative nonfiction, fiction and poetry, as well as panels, lectures and workshops on indie publishing, publishers and agents, marketing for writers and more. The faculty includes Philip Gerard and Virginia Holman (creative nonfiction); Rebecca Lee and Clyde Edgerton (fiction); and Peter Makuck and Malena Mörling (poetry). Visit www.ncwriters.org for information and to register.

THE LIFE AND MUSIC OF STEPHEN FOSTER 3 p.m. Nov. 17, Carteret County Public Library, Live Oak Street, Beaufort. Presented by The Friends of the Carteret County Library. Narration by Bob Malone, and music by Harmony Creek. Tickets are $10 at the door and $1 for children. Enjoy songs by the composer of "Oh! Susanna," "My Old Kentucky Home," "Jeanie with the Light Brown Hair" and "Beautiful Dreamer." Contact Marlene Anderson at 728-3988 for details.

GIVING THANKS: POTLUCK FOR COMMERCIAL FISHERMEN 4-7 p.m. Nov. 21, N.C. Maritime Museum, Beaufort. The museum is hosting a potluck dinner for commercial fishermen and will show the film "Core Sounders." This event is free. Commercial Fishermen bring your appetite; other guests please bring a potluck dish to show your thanks. Call the museum to sign up your dish, 728-7317.

FOURTH ANNUAL HOLIDAY EXTRAVAGANZA SHOW with Gaylon Pope & SweetWater 7 p.m. Nov. 23, Carteret Community College, Joslyn Hall. Seating is limited and the public is encouraged to purchase advance tickets no later than Nov. 20. Tickets are $20 and $23 at the door for adults and $12 for children or $15 at the door. For more information, visit www.gaylonpopeandsweetwater.com

Meetings

AARP CHAPTER 1714 11 a.m. Oct. 21, Golden Corral, Morehead City. Program with The History Place executive director, Steve Anderson.

CARTERET COUNTY COUNCIL FOR WOMEN 5:30 p.m. Oct. 24, Carteret General Hospital Meeting Room A, Morehead City. For more details, contact Juli Cosgrove, 393-1972.

CARTERET COUNTY DEMOCRATIC WOMEN 6 p.m. Oct. 22, Ruby Tuesday, Morehead City. Insurance agent Tom Styron will be the speaker. He will discuss the Affordable Care Act. All registered Democrats and their families are invited. For more information call 726-4841.

SOUTHERN BELLES REHEARSALS 7-8:30 p.m. Mondays, Cape Carteret Presbyterian Church, 100 Yaupon Drive, Cape Carteret. Southern Belles is a four-part harmony barbershop-style singing group for women. New members are always welcome. 354-2925.

Source: Carolinacoastonline

Consumer Reports: Motorola's latest Droids are better than iPhone 5s, 5c

Consumer Reports is still the buying guide of record for many consumers in older age demographics, and the not-for-profit group recently took a look at Apple's new wares. While Consumer Reports has historically been pretty rough on Apple gadgets, it came away from its iPhone 5s iphone cases otterbox camo iphone 5s and iPhone 5c tests fairly impressed, giving each handset a respectable score. Where the flagship iPhone 5s is concerned, found a happy surprise in the Touch ID fingerprint scanner, which it said was surprisingly reliable. It also said the 5s camera is better than ever and that the iPhone 5c is a "compelling offering for budget-minded buyers." Despite all that praise, however, Consumer Reports still thinks that Motorola's latest Droid handsets are a better buy.

The group had plenty of good things to say about both new iPhone models, and it was also a big fan of Apple's new iOS 7 software. Siri enhancements and the new Control Center were areas of particular interest. Consumer Reports says that the iPhone 5s and iPhone 5c both fall short when it comes to battery life, however, and that the smaller screens are a big drawback compared to devices from Samsung, LG and HTC.

As such, CR recommends that consumers purchase the Droid Maxx, Droid Ultra and Droid mini over Apple's handsets. The impressive battery life and larger displays are among the top reasons for the recommendation, and Consumer Reports was also a big fan of Google Now, Active Notifications and the ability to have mobile notifications display on a connected computer.

In the end, however, Samsung's Galaxy S4 is still Consumer Reports' highest-rated smartphone of the year.

Source: BGR

Why Apple Can't Stop NTT DoCoMo's Bleeding

Even though NTT DoCoMo Inc. ( 9437:JP) finally added the iPhone to its mobile lineup with the release of the iPhone 5s iphone cases otterbox defender razr maxx and iPhone 5c, the largest mobile carrier in Japan still can't stop losing subscribers. DoCoMo said on Monday it lost 66,800 net users in September, which marks the largest loss on record for the company.

Source: Ibtimes

Does Chicago 'value' anti-Catholic gimmicks?

<chicagop>Just as I was thinking about getting a great, thick, juicy burger - but one without any condiments that mock the sacred Christian sacrament of Holy Communion - a truly weird thing happened:

A fried chicken sandwich came to mind.

Yes, I know, it's odd. First, I'm almost tasting that medium rare beef, onions, real cheese and thick bacon on a fresh bun, and wouldn't you know it, chicken pops into my head.

It's that old Chick-fil-A outrage. Remember?

Only a year ago, the Chick-fil-A chain sought to open a restaurant on the Northwest Side. Immediately, the politicians were apoplectic with horror and indignation.

Chick-fil-A owner Dan Cathy, an opponent of gay marriage, had dared publicly suggest that marriage should only be between one man and one woman.

City Hall was so offended, the local alderman vowed to block the store's construction. Chicago's mayor weighed in, too.

"Chick-fil-A's values are not Chicago values," warned Mayor Rahm Emanuel. "They're not respectful of our residents, our neighbors and our family members. And if you're gonna be part of the Chicago community, you should reflect Chicago values."

But what of Chicago's values when a heavy-metal burger joint makes national headlines for selling a $17 gourmet burger seasoned with the metaphoric blood and body of Christ?

You must have heard of the amazing story in the Tribune last week, by reporter Ellen Jean Hirst, about Kuma's Corner. The renowned burger place began offering a new burger, the Ghost, to commemorate the Swedish band Ghost B.C.

On its Facebook page, Kuma's explained the burger "in the spirit of our undying reverence for the lord and all things holy." And they listed the contents. A 10-ounce patty, chile aioli, braised goat shoulder, white cheddar cheese and two other special ingredients, quoted here directly from Kuma's:

"Red Wine Reduction (the blood of Christ) with Communion Wafer garnish (the body of Christ). Come pay your respects!"

I've since heard apologists suggest that since the wafers had not been consecrated, they were really nothing but bread. But they do bear the sign of the cross.

I'm not Roman Catholic, but I am a Christian, and I was offended. And sickened. And angry, because the predictable happened. Kuma's got the public buzz. And half-wits couldn't wait to mock Christians who were offended.

One blog at ChicagoNow, part of the Tribune media group, purported in a fake news story to have interviewed the Roman Catholic Pope Francis.

At this newspaper, we're not allowed to make up fake interviews with popes. But some blogs must operate under different rules. According to that blog, "Pope Francis" defended Kuma's. He said he might like his Ghost burger sent to Rome.

"Perhaps ... if this Kuma considers lowering the price so that families with kids - good, breeding families with 8-10 kids - can eat there. You know, like McDonalds," the fake pope said.

Breeders?

That's how some refer to women with children. They're not mothers, they're breeders, you know, like sows producing livestock. Is that part of Chicago's values, too?

We called Kuma's Corner and spoke to Luke Tobias, the director of operations. He said the response had been mostly positive.

Source: Chicagotribune

DPReview takes a detailed look at the iPhone 5s camera

DPReview is well-known for its exhaustive camera reviews that analyze both the hardware and the resulting images produced by that hardware. Beside traditional point-and-shoots and DSLRs, DPReview also examines smartphone cameras with the same amount of detail it uses with its traditional camera reviews. The photography review site recently turned its attention towards the iPhone 5s iphone cases otterbox defender quotes in a 10-page review that features 78 sample images.

Not surprisingly, the reviewers found the iPhone 5s to be a very capable camera in the smartphone category. DPReview concludes,

The iPhone 5s features a very good camera that's easy to use and delivers strong results with little user intervention. It's a logical extension of the Apple design philosophy, with evolutionary performance increases and feature extensions. iPhone photographers looking to trade up will find much to like in the 5s, but it's not likely to lure users who prefer larger screens or are committed to other mobile operating systems.

You can read the entire review on DPReview's website.

[Via The Loop; Image from DPReview]

Source: Tuaw

Weekend Baking: Apple Cider Donuts Welcome Fall to the Kitchen

<norprop>

Despite having temperatures in the 90s last week, I wanted to celebrate the arrival of fall. Some of our trees have already lost their leaves and some are just starting to turn colors. I was in the mood to bake, so we tried making a new recipe.

What goes better with fall than apple cider? Apple cider donuts!

Image: Courtesy of Daily Messes

DM TIP: I used Wilton's Donut pan, which turned out well. It has space for 6 donuts. I was able to get 14 donuts out of the recipe below. Norpro has a 6- and 12-donut pan as well.

For the donuts, you will need:

• 1/2 cup apple cider
• 1/4 cup buttermilk
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1 3/4 cups flour
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 3/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the topping, you will need:

• 3 tablespoons apple cider
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 1/4 cup sugar

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
2. Spray donut pan with a nonstick spray and set aside.
3. In a bowl, mix together flour, baking soda, baking powder, nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together sugar and butter until combined.
5. Add egg and vanilla to sugar-butter and continue mixing.
6. Next, stir flour mixture into the sugar-butter-egg mixture.
7. Add in buttermilk and mix together.
8. Finally, add in apple cider and mix until it is just combined.
9. Fill donut pan about half full and baking for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown.
10. Remove from oven and flip onto a cooling rack.
11. Mix the remaining cinnamon and sugar for the topping.
12. Once the donuts have cooled enough to touch, brush apple cider over the top and sides.
13. Dip donut into the cinnamon-sugar mix.
14. Enjoy!

DM Alternatives: You could also dip the cooled donuts in an apple cider glaze (whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons apple cider). You could also sprinkle cinnamon/sugar on top of the glaze.

Source: Blogher

Cuccinelli planning major Bi-County Parkway rally

<tolerantp>But the Cuccinelli campaign is planning a major rally on the Bi-County Parkway Saturday morning - complete with Civil War re-enactors and a sound stage - and Cuccinelli is expected to make an announcement that area residents hope will be a strident statement against the proposed roadway.

As of Wednesday, the Cuccinelli campaign was keeping mum on what exactly what Cuccinelli would say at the 10 a.m. event. But Page Snyder, who will host the rally at her home on Pageland Lane, said she was told Cuccinelli would "come out strongly against" the Bi-County Parkway.

Snyder, who said she just learned about the rally Tuesday, said the rally was prompted by conversations between Bi-County Parkway opponents and Cuccinelli's wife, Teiro.

"First of all, we've been talking to the Cuccinelli campaign for some time about this and I've been talking to his wife, Teiro, who has seemed very sympathetic" to our concerns, Snyder said. "She has worked on him, evidently."

Snyder said Cuccinelli now realizes how detrimental the Bi-County Parkway would be to this region "and that's why he's coming out."

Cuccinelli is a resident of western Prince William County and his family attends a Catholic church in Gainesville.

Asked for comment Wednesday, Josh Schwerin, press secretary for Democratic gubernatorial candidate Terry McAuliffe, said his boss supports the idea of improving transportation options to Dulles International Airport.

"Terry thinks that we need to unlock Dulles airport," Schwerin said in an email. "But there are also some legitimate concerns about this proposal related to road closures and impacts on the battlefield. After he's elected he will meet with all the stakeholders to ensure that our solution is both economically beneficial and supported by the local community."

The Bi-County Parkway, a 10-mile road linking Va. 234 to U.S. 50 in Loudoun County, has come under fire by Prince William County residents for several reasons. Those closest to the proposed route, including Pageland Lane residents, are upset about the damage they say the four-lane road will do the Manassas National Battlefield Park and the Manassas Historical District, which it would traverse for several miles.

Residents are also worried the road will worsen commutes into Washington if Sudley Road is closed inside the Battlefield and U.S. 29 is subjected to "calming methods" designed to discourage commuters from using the road.

Opponents also remain convinced that the Bi-County Parkway would be the "missing link" in a larger section of roadways that would connect Interstate 95 in Dumfries to Interstate 66 and onto Dulles - creating what some call "an outer beltway."

Snyder said she has been withholding her support for either Cuccinelli or McAuliffe until she hears more about their positions on the Bi-County Parkway. And she said she knows several other area residents who feel the same way.

"A lot of people here have Cuccinelli yard signs that they have not put out because they are waiting to hear" where he stands on the road, she said.

"For them, this is a one issue campaign and they would support whichever candidate would come out against the Bi-County Parkway," Snyder said, adding: "I, for one, hope it's going to be a very strong, black-and-white statement with no wiggle room."

Source: Insidenova

Otterbox Introduces New iPhone 5/5s Case With Space for Credit Cards and Cash

Otterbox has introduced iPhone case/wallet combination, the Commuter Series Wallet. The $45 case includes space for 3 credit cards and a single dollar bill, while coming in black, white/grey and pink/grey color combinations.

The new case competes against other wallet 5s iphone cases otterbox camo defect like TwelveSouth's BookBook, as well as dozens of other wallet cases on the market.

- Multi-layer case guards against damage to your device
- Slimline design hides contents, keeping them safe and secure
- Self-adhering screen protector guards against scratches and scrapes to the glass display
- Access drawer holds up to three cards and one bill
- Audible click closure gives you peace of mind knowing your items are securely enclosed
- Access Wallet drawer contents without turning case over

The Commuter Series Wallet case, for the iPhone 5 and 5s, is available from Otterbox and other retailers for $45.
Source: Macrumors

Qualcomm exec calls Apple's 64-bit iPhone 5s processor a 'gimmick'

There has been a lot of discussion surrounding the iPhone 5s iphone cases games for girls y8's new 64-bit processor ever since Apple unveiled the chipset last month. Some have applauded the upgrade to the iPhone while others have implied that the new chip might not be much of an upgrade at all. Techworld reports that Qualcomm CMO Anand Chandrasekher is in the latter of those two groups. In an interview, Chandrasekher said that he believes the announcement was nothing more than a "marketing gimmick. There's zero benefit a consumer gets from that."

Chandrasekher also said that the 64-bit processor is only necessary when running a device with greater than 4GB of RAM, whereas the iPhone 5s only contains 1GB of RAM. Others have argued that despite the early implementation of the 64-bit chip, Apple has cleared the way for developers to begins production of 64-bit apps on future devices by striking first. Other smartphone makers are clearly taking note as well, as evidenced by Samsung's insinuation that the Galaxy S5 will also contain a 64-bit processor.

The iPhone 5s also slaughtered rival smartphones in performance tests, so Apple is clearly doing something right.

Chandrasekher went on to say that Qualcomm, developer of Snapdragon processors, will inevitably move to 64-bit as well at some point in the future. The hardware will eventually demand a more powerful processor, but Apple's preemptive strike might have come a bit too early.

Source: BGR

Sony Acknowledges it's the Underdog in America

<packp>Sony's Shuhei Yoshida has expressed his admiration for Microsoft's decision to change the Xbox One, saying competition is healthy.

In an interview with Games Industry, the Sony Worldwide Studios boss acknowledged the company faces a fight to make the PlayStation 4 the dominant console in North America, but he's glad that Microsoft changed aspects of the Xbox One to make things harder for Sony.

"It's always great to have two companies fighting each other," he said. "People like it; it creates a news story. The games media will cover any platform launch, but the general media - a big Sony versus Microsoft battle is a bigger story. Microsoft launching Xbox One in the same year, the same Christmas - people compare them, lots of news stories are written."

We never took them lightly. Especially in the States, we are the challenger - we're trying to compete with them.

When the interviewer suggested strong PS4 pre-orders were due to Microsoft mis-marketing the Xbox One, Yoshida was quick to disagree, calling the rival company's efforts "great". Asked to expand upon this further, he explained that the swiftness with which policy changes were embraced showed Microsoft was committed to gamers, which can only be a good thing for consumers.

"We know they're very smart people," he said. "It's great that they were able to quickly realise that some of the things they were doing were not popular, and were able to make really quick decisions to change some of those things - even things that their engineering group must have spent a lot of time preparing before the launch. It must have been a very tough time for them. That shows how smart they are, and it shows their dedication to making Xbox One successful.

"We never took them lightly. Especially in the States, we are the challenger - we're trying to compete with them. Some of the messaging that they stumbled on just gave us more chances to compete with them in the States. Other markets are very different - in Europe, we have a larger market share and in Japan, we have a much longer history of being here. Being consistent and persistent helps; the legacy and people's associations with the brand, their memories of having a great time before."

Despite this appreciation for Microsoft, Yoshida is keen to emphasise the strengths of the PlayStation 4; specifically the fact that the console is completely gamer-focused, with a hardware design that'll enable developers from all walks of life to coax the best out of the machine in the years ahead.

[The changes show] how smart they are, and it shows their dedication to making Xbox One successful.

"We continue to say what we've been saying since February," he said. "PS4 is really designed for consumers and focused on how people want to play games. At the same time, we've really made sure that it's hardware which game developers will enjoy making games on. We want consumers to look at how much fun it is to use this system, not just for playing games but for finding out about games and sharing the experience with other people.

"Something that can be a weakness but can be a very strong asset for the PlayStation team is the management team that we have. Many of us in key positions have gone through all the transitions from the launch of PS1. Andrew House, Jack Tretton, myself and many of the executives were all there at the beginning. We've gone through great times and pretty difficult times together. I've never worked for another company, so I can just imagine, but we have a very efficient way of discussing issues and being open and honest. We make quick decisions when necessary, and that's something that's very fresh to me."

The Xbox One is due to launch globally on November 22, while the PlayStation 4 will be available in North America on November 15 and in Europe on November 29. Both are available to pre-order/reserve now at online retailers in multiple territories.

Luke Karmali is IGN's UK Junior Editor. You too can revel in mediocrity by following him on IGN and on Twitter.
Source: Ign