Firmware Update: NWZ-A17 - Version 1.21

Sony USA has released a firmware update for the A17. LINK, this should work for the A15 but update at your own risk. I have not seen the update on Sony Europe's site yet.

Benefits provided by previous updates and included in version 1.21:

• The memory type (such as a built-in memory/SD card) can now be selected even while connected via USB
• Addresses an issue where, in rare cases, sound may not be produced when the WALKMAN is connected with the digital amplifier
• Provides additional function updates
• Supports LDAC (a newly developed high resolution codec) during Bluetooth® connection.
• Improves a condition where the Walkman may be slow in action when a FLAC (Free Lossless
• Audio Codec) file, which has more than one jacket picture, is played and moves to the next or previous song

Instructions

1. Download the NWZ-A10_V1_21.exe file to a temporary or download directory (please note this directory for reference).
2. Connect your Walkman player to your computer using the supplied USB cable.
3. Go to the directory where the file was downloaded and double-click the NWZ-A10_V1_21.exe file to begin the installation.
4. Carefully follow the onscreen prompts to complete the installation.

IMPORTANT: Do not disconnect the player from the computer while the update is in progress.

Note: During the update the USB connection is automatically controlled and the Connecting USB message is not displayed. On some computers a USB Disconnect message may be displayed.
When the Completed message is displayed, click Finish.

Sony Launches new WS Walkman

Sony boosts Wearable line-up with launch of new WS413 / WS414 Walkman

• All-in-one design delivers quality sound anytime, anywhere with easy connectivity and an improved sleek, wearable fit

• New salt-water / dust proof design for use with increased range of sports

• Introducing ‘Ambient Sound’ mode for enhanced user experience

Take your music to new places with the brand new wearable WS413 / WS414 Walkman. A new, tough, salt water and dust proof design allows you to enjoy more activities in a wider variety of conditions;it can accompany you on your morning swim in the pool, your evening jog along the beach or your yearly hike up a snowy mountain.

Listening to music whilst exercising is a true motivator, so why not make it easier than ever? A wire-free round and seamless shape makes the fit comfortable and perfect for slipping over the ear, so you don’t need to worry about the Walkman slipping at a crucial time.

The WS413 / WS414 wearable Walkman from Sony is now salt-water proof and dust proof (saltwater proof and dust proof to an IPX65/68 rating) so you can listen to your favourite songs whilst enjoying water sports such as kayaking or swimming and its sleek design eliminates drag interference so you are not restricted in any way. This has been enabled by the addition of an internal terminal which resists any accumulation of foreign particles and is highly corrosion-resist. A rustproof coating on the surface of the front case ensures that your Walkman® is protected both inside and out.

The WS413 / WS414 comes equipped with both everyday earbuds, and specially designed waterproof earbuds that are covered with a thin film to form a barrier against water getting through without compromising comfort.

But you don’t have to be in to sports to enjoy the WS413 / WS414 Walkman. The sand tolerance means it’s great for those beach days and exotic holidays. The unique sealed structure equalizes compression ratios, ensuring that your Walkman     stays Dustproof in a variety of environments. The supported temperature feature has been extended means you can use your Walkman® to its full potential in temperatures from -5°C to 45°C.

You can also remain conscious of the voices and noises around you should you so wish with the new Ambient Sound mode. In-built microphones pick up ambient sounds around you allowing you to stay in touch with your surrounding environment without having to remove the device or lower the volume. This means you can communicate with your jogging buddy or yoga instructor without having to pause your motivational music.

The WS413 / WS414 Walkman is available in Europe in March 2016 priced at approximately €120 (WS413) and €110 (WS414).

CES 2016

Another new year and another CES upon us. Not expecting anything new on the Walkman front.  Perhaps Sony will introduce the ZX100 and A20 Walkmans to the US market, otherwise their press conference will/should focus on TVs, Playstation VR and perhaps photo.  So far only a new speaker has been leaked or revealed, the h.ear go wireless speaker, so nothing exciting.

I am embedding the stream link below.  Time for the show is January 5th at 5PM/17:00 Local time, so Pacific standard time.  So 8PM East coast US, 2:00 AM January 6th Paris local time, Tokyo is 10:00 local time, and January 6th at 12:00 in Australia (Melbourne).

Or hit up the link below for a link to Sony's Ustream website.

http://www.ustream.tv/sony