Mobile Computing News

Photo: Asus

Recently launched, the Asus O!Play media server is promised in the official press release to provide a ‘wealth of cloud infotainment’. Bizarre as that might sound, this server does have a lot going for it, and it looks to be a leader in its fast-developing field – the coveted USB 3.0 PC link is one of its features, and its HD2 technology is a must.

That’s right – ‘cloud infotainment’

‘Cloud computing’ is a term used to describe computing that’s based on the sharing of information between various technical aspects of computing – such as servers like this one – and the computing resources they support. This kind of computing places its emphasis on easy sharing of information, and that’s what a fast, high-powered device like the O!Play can provide. That way, information – or in this case, apparently, infotainment – can be moved rapidly and simply between computing resources and computer users, with minimal effort.

New Asus technology and the transition to USB 3.0

Photo: Asus

Sometimes know as ‘Superspeed USB’, this technology allows amazingly quick transfer speeds, and, usefully, is compatible with USB 2.0 technology. The major revamp undergone by this technology heralds the beginning of a transition from this older technology to newer, more capable products, although it may take a while for a full transition to happen as USB 3.0 is limited to higher-end products to begin with. As it begins to take place, the O!Play will make life a whole lot easier for those who invest in the video cameras and other devices which are the first to already be using the new technology.

What does the new Asus O!Play do?

The O!Play features a mind-blowing number of connectivity options. The prize feature, and the one that everyone’s talking about, is of course the USB 3.0 PC link, but this new Asus media server also boasts ports for CF, SD, and memory cards, and can be connected to ESATA and USB 2.0 output ports. It’s HDMI 3 compliant, and has component, composite and optical output ports. It sounds like it’ll be pretty difficult for even the fussiest technology lover to find fault with.

Tell us more!

The Asus O!Play was introduced at this year’s CeBIT, but many consumers are left in frustrated anticipation as Asus declines to offer any information on the product’s release date or how much it’ll cost. Here’s hoping that no news, in this case, means good news.

Future perfect?

The new Asus HD2 media server is a product that promises a lot, but it seems certain that its developers know that there’ll be a lot of people waiting to see whether it delivers. At this early stage, all current reports and reviews seem positive and eager to see what’s in store for the world of and USB 3.0 – only the future will tell, but it’s likely that the Asus O!Play will be a part of that future.