Today’s topics include Samsung launching its new pay service, AMD unveiling new GPU’s for embedded systems, Juniper’s Unite platform making it easier for enterprises to make the switch to the cloud and LG unveiling its first-ever laptops in the United States.
Last month, Samsung previewed its new Samsung Pay service to a group of tech reporters at a media event. The service officially launched in the United States this past Monday, Sept. 28. Samsung Pay combines several important factors: biometric authentication through fingerprint ID; near-field communication; emulation of magnetic-stripe cards and end-to-end transaction encryption. The new rival to Apple Pay and Android Pay launched last month in South Korea, where it transacted more than $30 million in sales volume in its first month.
Advanced Micro Devices is rolling out a range of new embedded graphics cards that are aimed at a broad array of embedded applications that demand high-end visual and parallel processing capabilities. According to AMD officials, the Embedded Radeon graphics products can be used in such areas as gaming systems, digital signage, medical devices systems—such as X-ray and MRI machines—as well as industrial controls and thin clients. They’re also looking at communications infrastructure, from network switches and routers to systems that support the growing Internet of things.
Juniper Networks wants to make it easier for enterprises to embrace cloud computing environments. The company rolled out a new reference architecture that is based on Juniper’s Junos networking software portfolio and includes an array of new and enhanced products, from Ethernet switches to routing products to management solutions. Called Unite, the reference architecture also includes extensive security features to help protect customers as they continue their migration to the cloud.
LG Electronics has unveiled its Gram series of high-performance laptop computers, its first laptops that are being offered for sale in the United States. Yesterday, the company officially announced its Gram series, which are named to highlight their light weight in the 13-inch and 14-inch Full HD display class. The LG Gram 13, which comes in white, retails for $899, while both LG Gram 14 models come in gold. The Core i5-equipped Gram 14 retails for $999, while the Core i7-equipped Gram 14 retails for $1,399.