Toshiba 60GB Media Player

Toshiba Announces the MES60VK 2.4 Inches wide screen and a huge 60GB Space which can play music continiously for 10 long days or store upto 40 days of music of average quality.You can view the video’s and pictures stored via the 2-3/8″ Size Screen in bright and vivid colours.You can connect the player to a Tivo Series DVR and download Live TV shows and watch them anytime, also the downloading features allow you to download music directly from napster or AOL and store in WMA or MP3 formats.

Also features connection with the XBOX Console where in you can use it to play your own custom background tracks while playing the games. Also features a FM Radio which can be used to store the LIVE FM and a intergrated microphone useful for recording lectures and seminars.It also supports WAV,WMV 7, WMV 8, WMV 9 video files, displays JPEG files, weighs just 4.84 oz.The Batteries continiously work for 12 hours when fully charged.

The market price of this product is in the range of 240$ to 399$ based on the sellers.

Sony FE Series Laptops

SONY has once again unveiled a series of laptop, which targets the high-defined users to cater to their needs. The SONY VAIO FE SERIES is what the home users are looking for this kind. It has got an unprecedented feature, which makes even the most demanding person to meet the expectation.

There are many key features in it, which makes the FE SERIES the most sought after laptop. They have a Dual-core processors packed with Graphics in it and also have a next future generation of screen, which delivers the best of color, and brightness that you can get. The quality of screen is another thing you can look out for. It also has a 15-inch widescreen and also combined with the high-end WXGA resolution, which makes it ideal to watch your favorite movies and feel at home. It has also got a double Lamp Illumination, which helps increases, the contrast and also differentiates between true black colors and vibrant one.

For the first time, you also have the Intel core processor form the Intel which for their right combination of power and potential. With the addition of dual core processor, it steps ahead to the future.

It has also got a hefty hardware in use. This helps you get through the most demanding task and with the advanced DDR2 memory it helps in ultra speed computing with low power consumption. It also helps you to carry an array of task from the entertainment scheme to that of the intensive programs that you would carry out.

It has got an integrated optical drive in use which provides data storage of up to 8.5 GB which can be stored on one Double Layer DVD disc which makes it very easier for the user to port the data, save and share them.

It has also got the Windows Vista Premium, which makes it easier and enjoyable so that you can do anything on your PC. With its high end spectacular look and windows Media Center it takes you to the future. It has also got an exceptional audio quality, which has the original sound reality technology, which provides the surround sound technology. It has also got the integrated Blue tooth technology, which makes you to integrate with the other palm tops as well as other devices without having the need to go for the additional hardware or software.

It also got the unique optional docking with multi function bay, which helps you to expand the functionality and more options to it, even further. The bay unit is an ultra flexible one which helps to do the functionality without the use of excess hard ware in it. All these makes the FE SERIES the most sought after.

Static Electricity Eliminator

It’s that time of year, especially in the upper Midwest where I live. You come into your house from the outdoors, take off your jacket and the first metal object you touch….ZAP!! You get a shock. Or you’re walking around your furnace-heated house (which is most likely carpeted in some way, shape or form) and you again touch a metal or electrical object…ZAP!!! The risk when you walk around in your own home is that most likely, you will be touching your home computer or laptop and risk a device-destroying electrical zap.

Over at ThinkGeek, they sell the Static Electricity Eliminator, which is an ingenious little device that helps ensure that you are “static free”. All you do is hold the Static Electricity Eliminator and touch the rubber tip to a grounded object (a metal desk leg, your car door, a metal peg leg, etc). You will see a little face flash on the Static Electricity Eliminator’s screen verifying that you are static free. The best part is that it does not require batteries or a recharge to make it work (because you are the electricity by generating the static charge in the first place), you’ll be able to use it for many more winters to come.

Now you can safely take off your polar fleece and wool jackets without endangering your electronic gadgets! Go get one over at ThinkGeek for $9.99 - which is way cheaper than replacing that laptop.

iPhone Price in France cemented

According to the company’s Orange mobile subsidiary, Apple’s exclusive provider partner in France, it will be selling unlocked iPhones at that astronomically high price whenever customers turn down the 12- or 24-month service contract. I suppose there is always a silver lining in every cloud - after all, France Telecom CEO Didier Lombard did mention that Orange will be selling unlocked iPhones at a “significantly lower” price compared to the $1,471 quoted by rival T-Mobile in Germany.

According to the company’s Orange mobile subsidiary, Apple’s exclusive provider partner in France, it will be selling unlocked iPhones at that astronomically high price whenever customers turn down the 12- or 24-month service contract. I suppose there is always a silver lining in every cloud - after all, France Telecom CEO Didier Lombard did mention that Orange will be selling unlocked iPhones at a “significantly lower” price compared to the $1,471 quoted by rival T-Mobile in Germany.

Should you feel that that is too high a price to pay, then why not go ahead with the service plan? It will still cost significantly more compared to the iPhone in the US (which incidentally has the cheapest iPhones around the globe), retailing for $589 with numerous plans to choose from. These plans will cost you anywhere from $72 to $176, which include between 120 and 480 minutes of talktime. If you decide to throw in another $148, Orange will unlock any locked iPhone, including those previously purchased with a 12- or 24-month contract. For current Orange customers who want to pick up an iPhone without the hassle of extending their existing contract can do so, but they will still have to pay through their nose by forking out $811. All I can say is, prestige and hype come at a price – if you really think that the iPhone is that indispensable in your life, go for it.

Bluetrek ST1 headset

SRS Labs and ModeLabs Technologies have come to an agreement to include the former’s patented audio and bass enhancement technology for use in the new Bluetrek ST1 Bluetooth headset. What can we find in the Bluetrek ST1 anyways? First off, it is a Bluetooth v1.2 enabled stereo headset, which makes it just about compatible with virtually any Bluetooth enabled product that provides music playback, including cellphones, MP3 players, and computers that support Bluetooth
the neck.

The moment either mono or stereo content is received by the Bluetrek ST via Bluetooth, the SRS WOW HD will automatically process it for a superior audio entertainment experience with crisp highs, deep lows and immersive realism. According to Henri-Nicolas Olivier, Chief Executive Officer for ModeLabs Technologies, “Bluetrek specializes in blending innovative designs with cutting edge technologies for the mobile lifestyle. We chose to partner with SRS because they have a proven track record as one of the leading audio solutions providers and our products cater to the tastes of style-conscious consumers and tech-savvy enthusiasts who want the best audio experience possible.”

Just in case you might be skeptical about the type of improvement SRS WOW HD provides, SRS Labs assures you that audio performance will reach levels that you never really experienced before with a humble Bluetooth headset, particularly when you’re listening to highly compressed music files. SRS WOW HD will expand the size of the perceived audio image, creating a 3D wall of sound. It will also incorporate psychoacoustic bass enhancement techniques which enhance low
frequencies and their harmonics creating a deeper and richer bass experience. When dealing with high frequencies, SRS WOW is no slouch, as it improves definition and clarity. In addition, a truly unique aspect of SRS WOW HD is its ability to restore information that is lost by traditional recording and playback techniques, creating a more natural and realistic audio experience.

Credit Card size Video Player

These look cool, the Credit Card Digital Video Player that’s small enough to slot in your pocket or wallet.
These mini video players are small on size but are big on features with full-size bright high-res screens and 8 hour battery life. They’re perfect for playing your favorite movies and music. Choose from the Neon M3 with heat sensitive glowing buttons and a 2.4 inch LCD screen or the Ice with a brushed aluminum finish and a slightly larger 2.8 inch display. Both have 2GB of storage built-in and can be expanded via memory card.

Hitch Vault

Some things happen in life that you could really do without. Say locking your keys in the car or losing them at some sketchy carnival. Now replace keys with driver’s license/credit card in that sentence, it still doesn’t sound like much fun, eh? Most people tend to agree, but what are we to do about it? Clearly we’re not actually going to remember to not lost those two essential items, nah, we need something to do the work for us. Hello Hitch Vault! You’ll never be sitting by your car in 100 degree heat waiting for a locksmith again. Well. . . you will have to remember the combination, but if you forgot that, you need some help.

Once you see it, the Hitch Vault becomes one of those “why didn’t I think of that one” inventions. It’s simple and can really save you a lot of trouble. The Hitch Vault goes into your truck or SUV’s standard hitch receiver, essentially converting it into a mini safe. For security, the pins are only accessible when the vault door is open. And unless you pick the easiest of the 10,000 different combinations (0000 anyone?), you’ll be just fine. Storage wise, you can pack in some emergency cash, a spare car key, a driver’s license and any other important key/card/trinket that you really, really wouldn’t want to lose. Just think, whenever you’re out doing something adventurous or when at that sketchy carnival, you won’t need to worry about losing your keys or driver’s license; just carry the cash you need for the day and you’re set.

Amazon has the Hitch Vault for a respectable $70 along with plenty of up close and detailed images for you to check out.

Delphi SKYFi3

I don’t know if everyone is on the XM Satellite radio track yet, but if you want jump on this train, you may want to consider the SKYFi3 + Vehicle Kit from Delphi.

The SKYFi3 has a large, over 2 inch screen that prominently displays the channel and the song that is playing. The XM Radio syncs up with your own FM radio, without any Bluetooth or connectors older radios would not come with.

This is one XM player that really comes with many features. It is advertised as having unlimited MP3s, and the reason why is because it has a miniSD reader. In fact, it makes a claim that is the first satellite receiver to have this feature. Apparently, this SKYFi3 has the ability to record your favorite tunes and keep them for downloading.

As for the internal memory, it can time-shift up to 10 hours, which means that recordings can be started anytime during live listening mode. The SKYFi3 also boasts a 30-minute pause and replay feature, allowing you to stop your music for up to a half-hour.

The SKYFi3 + Vehicle Kit comes with lots connectors, including one that connects directly to your lighter. It also comes with a cradle that has the channel presets. The SKYFi3 + Vehicle Kit is available at retail stores for about $199.99, but there is a sale on it from the site for $119.99.

Battery free mouse

Wireless mice are great. They help get rid of one of the most annoying things in every computer setup: cables. It’s only a small dent in the amount of cords dangling behind your PC, but every little bit certainly helps. Of course, with the good comes the bad. In this case you have to worry about keeping fresh batteries on hand at all times. Sure, rechargeable batteries are great, but what if you could get rid of those too? That’s exactly what A4Tech promises with their new wireless mouse.

The new Battery Free Wireless Mouse and Magic Pad set eliminates the need for batteries in your cordless mouse by transferring power using “electromagnetic induction technology.” A wireless mouse that doesn’t need batteries? Surely it must be too good to be true! Don’t worry, it is.

The mouse itself may not be tethered to your computer, but the special mouse pad is. All of that power has to come from somewhere, so the special Magic Pad connects to an available USB port on your PC. In addition to having a cable, (which completely ruins the point of having a cordless mouse) it also has some sort of giant in-line control box. I’m not really sure what it does, other than obviously taking up more space than is actually necessary. If you’re interested in this strange mouse, you can get one for $22.99

Robot with Plush hands

Robots are supposed to be cold and calculating machines, but the folks in robot-crazy Japan are slowly making their bionic slaves more and more humanlike with each iteration. Case in point, this new robot known as Twendy-One features soft hands and the capability to respond to human touch. In addition to that level of interactivity, it also boasts enough strength to support the weight of someone who accidentally trips over and falls down - hence the inclusion of soft hands lest our fragile human physique gets crushed by a well-meaning robot.

X mini Capsule Speaker

Never ever judge a book by its cover, and likewise the same applies to speakers and their relative size. The X-mini Capsule Speaker turns the tables on the adage “small is weak” - you have to listen to it yourself to believe it!

The sound is incredible! Rich and loud and strong, this little speaker surprises everyone with how big it sounds. It’s portable and rechargeable via USB, so you can take it anywhere you might need a big boost of sound. Just pop open the capsule and extend the speaker - this opens the resonance chamber, increasing the bass response even higher. Plus, at a full-charge, it can run for nearly 8 hours! It’s electric awesome in the palm of your hand.

The X-mini Capsule Speaker is currently available from ThinkGeek for $24.99

Canon Portable HD DVD burner

It’s no secret that although DVD camcorders are popular for their convenience, they aren’t necessarily better than miniDV. But not everyone who has a miniDV camcorder wants to edit video. They just want to burn to DVD and watch it on their big screen. Canon’s new DW-100 DVD recorder bypasses the need for a PC and burns video via a direct connection.

Able to burn both SD and HD DVDs, the DW-100 can encode in both MPEG2 and AVCHD. Additionally, although the basic concept is to bypass a PC for burning directly, users can also connect it to a PC or MAC via USB. This means that it can probably also be used as an external DVD burner. Now, the concept is nothing new, but the fact that the DW-100 can be used to encode and burn both standard and high definition video makes it particularly of note. And Blu-ray is the standard in the HD side so even those who watch DVDs on their overpriced PS3 will be able enjoy your vacation videos in stunning 1080p.

No word on specs or price points (look for that at CES), but the DW-100 is expected to hit the market in the Spring of 2008.

Instant Snow

We have a lot of bad weather in the UK but we don’t get that much snow to enjoy, this is were Insta-Snow could help, simply add water and hey presto, you have snow!

This is one of the coolest products we’ve seen. Just mix a scoop of Insta Snow powder with water to make an eruption of fluffy snow that will not melt and lasts for weeks. It’s safe to touch, non-toxic, and guaranteed to amaze. We’ve been mesmerized ever since we first laid eyes on this stuff.

You can buy a 100 gram jar of Inst-Snow for $8.95 from VAT13, cheap enough to snowball someone but probably not to make a snowman. Found via Gizmo Central.

Tivo now available in Canada

Tivo, the company that started the digital video recorder (DVR) craze, has just announced that TiVo DVRs will be made available in retail stores throughout Canada before the holiday season goes into full swing. I personally think that the timing could not be any better since the busy holiday season would mean many of us missing our favorite prime time shows - hence the innate need for a TiVo DVR in your living room. Canadian customers will be able to take advantage of the Emmy award-winning TiVo user interface and exclusive service features such as SeasonPass recordings, WishList searches, Online Scheduling, TiVoToGo transfers, Multi-Room viewing, and TrickPlay functionality, where the last feature allows users to pause, rewind, instant replay and slow-motion live TV.

The TiVo Series2 DT DVR has been optimized for cable households and is capable of holding up to 80 hours of standard-definition content while allowing consumers to record two shows simultaneously. According to Joshua Danovitz, Vice President and GM of International at TiVo, “We’ve received overwhelming demand from Canadian consumers who want access to TiVo’s innovative products and services and we are extremely excited to be able to deliver our highly-successful TiVo Series2 Dual Tuner DVR to this key strategic marketplace — just in time for the holidays. TiVo’s move into Canada represents a natural, important progression for our business as we continue to make sustained progress across international markets.”

Those who are interested will be able to pick up the TiVo Series2 DT DVR in early December at major Canadian retailers, including Best Buy, The Brick, London Drug and Future Shop for just $199 Canadian clams - which incidentally is on par with the US dollar anyway. This price tag will include standard TiVo subscription fees. Unfortunately for those living in Quebec, TiVo will not be available immediately.

Zipit Wireless Messenger 2

Remember the Zipit Wireless Messenger 2 that we covered back at the end of September, along with a reinforcement of the device earlier this month? Well, it is now available for purchase - and in time for the holiday season, to boot. For those who are still in the dark on what exactly is a Zipit, well it acts as a cure for those who just cannot live without their instant messaging programs (IMs such as AOL, Yahoo and MSN) no matter where they go. Zipit is compatible with virtually all major IM platforms, and best of all is it does not charge any fees, whether monthly, per message or otherwise. You can use the Zipit Z2 to hold multiple, concurrent conversations with friends without missing a beat.

The Zipit Z2 isn’t just limited to keeping in touch with friends and family, as it can be used to keep you entertained during those long commutes to and from work. This is made possible thanks to the built-in music player known as MyTunez, a service that provides instant access to the MP3 files which are stored on a separate miniSD memory card. Alternatively, you can always stream radio from the Internet, although that would probably mean you’d best stick to a place that offers WiFi connectivity all the time. In addition, users can also view their memorable moments via photos and slideshows courtesy of the integrated MyPhotoz feature.

The Z2 is highly customizable - an important feature when it comes to capturing the imagination of the younger market. It boasts the capability of unique backgrounds and themes which can be downloaded from the company’s web site. In addition, users who log on to the site will be able to indulge in several IM-themed games while working on the Zipitpedia - an online dictionary that helps clueless folk keep up to date with the latest 1337 5p34k (in other words, translations for IM lingo). The Zipit Z2 ought to be safe for kids since it features an interactive Parental Portal. In can be purchased for $149.99 a pop.

Boiled hard drive

Now this idea is definitely more wacky than that of wrapping your Xbox 360 with a towel so that the motherboard will warp back to its original position after overheating. One dude from Mandible Games claims that heating up his drive expanded the misaligned heads within, and hence he was able to access his precious data within after running around like a headless chicken for a week. Ok, so I added the last bit in but you get the idea - this guy is wacky enough to perform a double boil procedure on his spoiled hard drive. At the end of the day, I’d say it would be better to purchase a backup solution instead.

Plasma Bulb

The Plasma Bulb Night Light is something worth considering instead of a standard bedside table lamp, as it is definitely more than mesmerizing when compared to counting sheep.

The Plasma Bulb Night Light fits lovingly into your 110v US power outlet, and will last for years. It generates light with only a teensy bit of heat, so don’t worry about the kids or your drapes. Just bask in the glow, and sleep easy.

You can pick up this cool looking bedroom addition for $9.99

Neverlate Alarm Clock

I’m a person who can not get up for work in the morning without an alarm clock. It is impossible for me to get to work on time without one. (The people who get up without one should be checked for cyberneticts.) Even though I need an alarm clock, that doesn’t mean I can’t geek out with my choice of alarm clock.

ThinkGeek has the Executive Neverlate Alarm Clock. This alarm clock has so many features(full feature set below), I’ll just highlight the main points. It has two separate, 7-day alarm schedules and each of those 14 alarms can be set to a different time and wake alarm sound (one of 4 buzzers or 20 preset radio stations). In addition, you can have another seven “every day” alarms. Added up, you get a total of 21 alarms. And if you get bored of the radio, you can plug in your MP3 player and listen through the clock’s speakers and even charge your MP3 player up with the built-in, standard 5V USB port.

Pick one up today for $59.99 over at ThinkGeek.

Executive Neverlate Alarm Clock Features:

• Alarms:
  • Two 7-day schedules (”his & hers” - 14 different alarms)
  • Seven extra “everyday reminder” alarms
  • Four buzzer ringtones
  • Linked alarm station presets
  • Customizable alarm duration and volume
  • Customizable snooze with “declining snooze” and snooze disable options
  • Alarm skip feature
  • Gradual wake option
  • One-touch alarm review
• Radio:
  • FM (87.5 - 107.9 MHz) / AM (520 - 1710 kHz) digital tuner
  • 20 station presets
• Display:
  • High-contrast, HTN/Negative backlit LCD
  • Adjustable multi-level (off, low, medium, high) backlight brightness control
• Time & Date:
  • 12 hour / 24 hour modes
  • US or Euro calendar display
• Other Features:
  • Customizable sleep and nap timers
  • Patent-pending rotary dial controls
• Power Requirements:
  • 110V AC with battery backup (1x CR2032 button-cell battery included)
• Inputs & Outputs:
  • MP3 input (1/8“ audio)
  • Headphone out (1/8” stereo)
  • 5V powered USB (no data)
• Dimensions:
  • 5” x 5” x 5”

Wibrain B1

It's Wibrain's (recently redesigned)B1, and it's on video. Granted, it's narrated in a foreign language, but hey, it's the B1, and it's on video. Thankfully, the clip does include a shot of an updated specifications list (in English), so here's the skinny on all that: we're now looking at a VIA C7M ULV 1.2GHz processor, a 4.0-inch (or is that 4.8-inch?) 1,024 x 600 resolution panel, your choice of 512MB or 1GB of RAM, 802.11b/g, Bluetooth 2.0+EDR, a 30GB / 60GB 4,200RPM PATA hard drive, four-cell standard Li-ion battery (six-cells in the extended one), stereo speakers, a built-in webcam and a number of connectivity options including HSDPA / UMTS, GSM / GPRS / EDGE and WiMAX. As for ports, the sheet explains that it'll have a single USB jack, headphone output, microphone input and a cradle connector to boot. Go on, check out the video after the break, but make sure you call over a translator before pressing play.

Cowon D2TV

Portable Media Players are making quite a splash these days on the market, and it seems like the best ones these days are based on video playback.

A company called Cowon has recently released the D2TV, a PMP that has enough memory for 9 hours of 1Seg mobile TV. Or if it is audio you’re looking to play, you can do about 45 hours. As far as battery power is concerned, you can do about 7.5 hours.

There are two models available. The D2-2G is a 2GB model available in white and costs about $220. The D2-8G is in glossy black, and costs about $310.

Unfortunately, these models are only available in Japan. This is quite typical of technology that usually hits Asia before it comes to us.

Okay, I’m going to open up the floor. Does anyone know what the best video PMP is out there? I suppose some people could say the iPod, but the screen may be too small. This D2TV has a 2.5 inch color touchscreen, but maybe that’s not good enough for you.

Still, you have to ask yourself at what point does the PMP get too large to be a PMP? Right now, the Cowon D2TV does not look like it will fit into your pocket.

Nintendo Wii Tower

It’s time once again for officially licensed products that could easily be made by anyone but will be sold at a high cost!

This officially licensed Wii Tower Game Station is at least useful. As it is, it can hold 18 games, that Wii console, and 4 Wiimotes or nunchucks.

So that’s like 2 Wiimotes and 2 nunchuks, right? I would need room for that. Too bad there isn’t any room for a battery charger. I need that all the time.

Anyway, you can pick it up for about $69.99 at pretty much any retail outlet.

Now, all they need to do is make one for Playstation 3 and Xbox 360. I’m guessing it would not be as skinny as this one, because the Wii stands vertically and doesn’t rest horizontally.

Now, I’m wondering if there is a way to make the thing steadier. As it is, it looks like the thing looks like it could tip over. Perhaps the Wii console keeps the weight down, or something.

Oh well, at least the thing has the Wii logo written on the side. However, I guess I could probably get a sticker for that. I probably will buy this because I’m just a sucker for Wii products of any type.

USB Fridge

It’s so hard keeping your can of Coke cold at your desk. Or worse, your office doesn’t have a refrigerator. How will you keep that can of Pepsi cold? Better yet, how will you get it cold in the first place? It’s enough to make a geek cry.

But wait! There is salvation!

USBGeek.com has the awesome USB Fridge. This tiny little red fridge plugs into your PC or Mac’s USB port and within minutes is chilled down to a frosty 47 degrees Fahrenheit (8 degrees Celsius), which is more than sufficient to keep that can of Dr. Pepper cold and ready to drink at your desk without having to spend a fortune on a mini-fridge for your cubicle. Easy, plug and play installation with no drivers required, you just take it out of the box, and keep that soda (or other 12 oz can of a work approved beverage) nice and chilled.

Description:

• This USB Fridge is the only way to keep your drink cold while you’re at your computer and it looks cool on any desktop.You can keep your beverage chilled and stay at your computer longer.
• Just minutes after plugging in the USB Fridge the cold plater chills to the perfect temperature for helping keep your beverage cool.
• Takes 5 minutes to bring the fridge down to 8°C (47°F).
• Blue LED lighting effects.
• Easy installation, no driver required, plug & play.
• Powered by USB with 4 feet of cable.
• Compatible with all platforms.
• Dimensions: 19.5 x 9 x 8cm
• Weight: 365gm
• Pick up one of your own for $30.00.

Plush Radio for Kiddies

While not many people tune in to radios these days, your little one would probably be very happy with this Plush Radio Cushion.

When you snooze, you can’t loose with this soft radio cushion. Cuddle right up to this plush pillow that doubles as an FM radio. With its easy-to-use controls, this multi-function pillow makes a paw-sitively unique treasure for kids of all ages! Features include an FM band radio, a digital scan tuner, a built-in radio and speaker, and a fun paw shape with easy-to-operate controls.

It retails for $14.99 a pop.

E-Light for Outdoor Parties

Though summer has given way to the dropping leaves of fall, as we march to the cold snows of winter, it’s never too late to think of outdoor entertaining. And with the E-Light Umbrella Light, not only can patio party’s be lit well into the evening, but the built in iPod jack allows for some wonderful music as well.

The cordless light is powered by six high energy LED lights which, thanks to the soft white case, can cast a soft glow across the patio table. It’s built in acoustically balanced stereo speakers produce sound quality that rivals your stereo inside the house. Very “bose” like. The E-Light can clamp onto umbrella pole up to two inches around, and features a standard headphone jack so you can plug in your iPod ™, stereo, or other media device.

Thanks to 4 rechargable NiMh AA batteries, the E-Light can run for up to six hours with both lights and sound at normal volume, or 12 hours with either lights or sound. It also comes with a charging stand converts the E-light to a music-playing desk lamp as it charges.

Available from Front Gate, the E-Light Umbrella Light runs for about $100 (iPod stand not included).

Video Camera (too small)

This video camera is definitely amazing to look at - not only does it record video, it captures audio as well and is small enough to be hidden in a chewing gum pack!

Because of its minute size this unit is ideal for covert filming. It comes with built-in Lithium-ion batteries that are charged via the USB adaptor charging cable that comes with the unit to give up to 4 hours of record time. A 1GB card (not included) will store up to 33 hours of video and audio. Video and audio recordings can be played back on a PC or a cellular phone.

You’ll need to fork out a hefty £ 295 in order to fulfill your voyeuristic tendencies though.

13 Port USB hub

I have quite a few USB devices sitting around my office. Sometimes I wonder if everything won’t one day be able to plug into a USB port. What has always baffled me is that many manufacturers make hubs that only give you an extra 3 ports. To me, that’s almost a waste of money. If I’m going to spend my hard-earned cash, I want more than a measly 4-port hub. That’s why I’m stoaked about the Synchrotech 13-port USB Hub.

What would one do with 12 extra USB ports? Honestly I could spend all day telling you about the wondrous gadgets that could occupy your desk, but I’m sure you could find plenty on your own. One good thing about this hub is that it does feature an AC adapter that has a 4 amp capacity. That should be enough to power all of your USB devices.

Aside from the plethora of ports, this hub is much like any other. This 13-port hub from
Synchrotech will set you back $45. That may seem like a bit much for a simple USB hub, but it
sure beats having two or three smaller ones sitting on your desk.

Personalized CellPhones

Personalizing gadgets isn’t something new, in fact more and more folks seem to want to stand out from the masses. This customizable faceplate for a clamshell handset is a concept that will definitely challenge your creativity skills, featuring a grid lattice structure that holds colored pins which mimic precious jewelry. I foresee plenty of 8-bit love with this, and those with a little bit of extra dough to throw around can always deck theirs out with precious metals and gems. Too bad there won’t be any cellphone manufacturer embracing this concept - just yet.

Khet 2 (new level of gaming)

I’m a big fan of Khet AKA the old Deflexion. The idea of reflecting lasers around a board game just seems cool to my geeky nature. This latest expansion pack takes the game to a whole new level, the Khet 3D Tower.

Khet now has a mezzanine level for even more zaptastic possibilities. When the laser is fired, it either stops on the edge of the board or zaps the non-reflective surface of a playing piece. If this happens, the piece is ‘destroyed’ and removed from play. Eliminate your opponent’s Pharaoh by successfully plotting the laser’s route and you win.

I reckon the 3D Tower will make an excellent game that little bit more challenging. Unfortunately the expansion pack is not available until 2008.

You can buy Khet from Amazon for $44.95 or Firebox for $34.95(which is where I found out about the 3D Tower Pack).

Cat Spa

Fancy spoiling your feline friend? The Hagen Living World Cat Spa offers the following features:

• Accu-Pressure Pads: A unique sensory experience. Cats love to feel the pressure points beneath their paws and may actually sleep on them.
• Body-Stroke Groomers: For self-grooming and massage. Stimulate face and back glands while providing an easy-access, intense massage.
• Gum Stimulator: An irresistible challenge to cats–blocks access to catnip. Gnawing of the gum stimulator massages and cleans teeth and gums. Rubbing cheek and chin areas stimulates glands.
• Ripple Massager: Solid sculpted ripples perform unlike any brush. Deep penetration of fur provides intense rubbing pleasure to head, neck, and face area.

The Cat Spa is available for $25.49 from Hagen, found via Inventor Spot.

Desk Set by Stationoli

It’s time to play the Wheel of Organization! Okay, that didn’t really fit as well as that Pat Sajak show that’s really popular with old people, but I couldn’t think of any better way to describe the Stationoli Desk Set.

I’m not sure what Stationoli is, but it sounds like a magician! Introducing the great Stationoli, with the amazing ability to be a stapler, pencil sharpener, staple remover, sticky note and paperclip holder, calculator, and digital alarm clock!

That is certainly the Stationoli Desk Set in a nutshell, but what makes it different then any other desk sets is it all fits together. Kind of reminds me of some complex Transformer when several of them transform and become one big giant kickin’ robot. In this case, all the Stationoli components form a big wheel.

Of course, this is more than the sum of its parts as each on has a magnet. I presume that so they can all join up, but apparently, they all can be magnetic individually. At the hub of the wheel is a clock which has an alarm, and runs on two included cell batteries.

If you are a control freak when it comes to office supplies, then this product is most assuredly for you. It is available for purchase at the Uncommon Goods Site for about $40.00.

Electronic Nose

Most folks would probably dismiss a weather monitor with built-in clock function as a “meh” device, but this one from Oregon Scientific aims to impress you with more than just its functions. It boasts a projection clock that will react constantly to forecasted weather from 12 to 24 hours in advance, changing its display color accordingly (red, light blue, blue, orange and green), depending on the upcoming weather condition. Dubbed the BAR339P, this device helps you plan your day ahead with a range of outdoor conditions including sunny, partly cloudy, cloudy, rainy and snowing using a remote sensor with a range of up to 100 feet (30m).

According to Kolmakov, an assistant professor in the physics department at Southern Illinois University at Carbondale, this work is an example of a successful and truly international collaboration between his group, Dr. Victor Sysoev (electronic noses specialist, Saratov State University, Russia) and group of Dr. Joachim Goschnick (developers of the commercial KAMINA e-nose system Forschungszentrum Karlsruhe, Germany). He mentions, “Basically, we took a very robust and successful electronic nose platform and instead of using the traditional thin-film sensing element we implemented completely new morphology of the sensing layer, which in our case, is composed out of the layer of tin oxide nanowires”.

This device is capable of achieving a certain degree of analogy with neurons, whereby the randomly distributed nanowires contact each other and form multiple percolation paths for signal transmission. The resistance of these percolating nanowires is a very sensitive function of the gas environment. Due to a stochastic difference of the percolating pattern between every two electrodes (the space between each couple of electrodes serves as a separate sensor), the sensor array of multi-electrodes produces a different response pattern to differing analytes. Similar to our brain, the processor attached to the e-nose conditions and analyzes the electrical signals coming from the sensor array and, using pattern recognition techniques, produces the image of the ‘odor’.

All I can do is wonder in amazement – when will bionic eyes and ears come next?

USB Multimedia Remote for PC

I’m a Mac user at home and a Windows user at work. There’s lots of things that I can do with my Mac at home that I can’t do at work. There also are a lot of things I take for granted on my Mac that I don’t necessarily think about or even have the opportunity to use on my work PC. One of those things is Front Row for the Mac and especially the little remote that allows me to browse my multimedia files with the touch of a button. I never realized there wasn’t anything similar available for the PC until today.

The USB multimedia remote is not a new invention, nor is it revolutionary for the PC. However, it is a device allows you to play music, flip through photos, watch movies and control Windows Media Center all from an inexpensive remote that fits neatly into your laptop PCMCIA Slot. It also has a range of 30 feet and support for Windows Vista, XP, 2000 and ME. All that for $30.

Features:

• Arrow, Enter, Back and Page keys to navigate Windows Media Center and give PowerPoint presentations.
• Volume Controls to crank the volume up and down in any Windows Program. E.g. PowerPoint, Windows Media Player, RealPlayer, Power DVD, Winamp, etc.
• Media Controls to Play, Pause, Fast Forward and Rewind videos, DVD, live and recorded TV, even music.
• Eliminate lost remotes by storing it inside your laptop (PCMCIA Slot), that way it is always available when you need it.
• The remote protrudes slightly from the slot, making it easy to pull out and use.
• Support user custom key setting
• Support Windows Vista, XP, 2000, ME
• Powered by Lithium battery (CR2025)
• Frequency: 2.4GHz
• Range: Up to 30 feets
• Dimensions: 85.8 x 54.2 x 5.0mm
• Weight: 19g

Black Jack II Smartphone

Coincidence or not, the BlackJack II smartphone for AT&T will become available for purchase on a popular day that is similar to its name - Black Friday - which is on November 23rd, in other words, 2 days from now.

The mobile device was announced on October during CTIA, and can be considered an upgrade from the previous BlackJack. As a true upgrade should be, the new Samsung phone has a bigger screen, an improved design, fresh colors, additional shortcut buttons to soften up the usability, and a jog wheel instead of the usual scroll wheel.

On top of the previously mentioned features, the BlackJack II comes with a GPS system and is compatible with AT&T Video Share. As for the price, $150 with a 2-year contract, and while the black colored version will be available this Friday, the burgundy model will only be for sale on December 6.

Bluetooth helmet for music lovers

I wouldn’t call my self a fan of extreme sports. In fact, the most “extreme” activity you’ll likely find me doing is rocking out with my fake plastic guitar. So it’s not all that surprising to know that I’ve never been snowboarding or mountain biking. I do, however, know that in such activities you probably need stay focused on the task at hand. That’s why I don’t recommend this Bluetooth Sports Helmet for anyone in extreme sports.

This helmet features an integrated Bluetooth headset, which is great for hooking up to your iPod with the included transmitter. The shell is made from an injection-molded ABS and a polycarbonat with an EPS foam liner.

While listening to music may become distracting during some activities, you’re probably going to do it anyway. What’s good about this helmet is that it lacks wires which could potentially get in your way and cause further distraction. If you’re looking for a new helmet, and you simply must listen to your tunes, you can pick this one up for $300.

Remote Controlled Pills

Pharmacists are currently doing their level best to control the release of drugs from a pill by using different release mechanisms - even entertaining the idea of using a pill that may come with a coating that is designed to be dissolved in a particular part of the digestive tract or after a certain amount of time. Unfortunately, this method isn’t really all that effective considering how the rate of passage through the body varies, with different individuals having varying levels of digestive enzymes compared to others. Philips has decided that the best way to circumvent this problem would be using a remote-controlled pill, boasting a cavity for carrying a drug that can be opened by a remote signal.

One will be able to track the passage of the pill using ultrasound or MRI, having the drug dispensed at the right moment thanks to an electronic trigger. Unfortunately, I don’t think this idea would work out well for homebound folks since how many laypersons will be able to afford an ultrasound or MRI machine for use at home? In addition, the drug can also be programmed to be released based on different external factors - such as the patient’s blood pressure level or whenever atmospheric pollen reaches a certain level.

Philips is currently working on making these pills affordable enough to be disposable, saving the hassle of collecting and recycling these pills after use. I certainly would loathe the idea of sifting through my own waste to find one tiny pill - don’t forget the cost of purchasing disposable gloves while going through such an unpleasant experience? I suppose folks won’t mind forking out a little bit extra for hygiene and convenience. One thing though – what happens when the transmitter in the pill is faulty, or if it runs out of power to be able to receive signals from the remote control?

Illuminated Chiller

No, your eyes definitely ain’t fooling you when you take a look at the Illuminated Ambiance Chiller lighting up in different shades after you have downed your fifth pint for the evening.

This illuminated wine/champagne chiller casts a warm glow of several different colors (yellow, green, blue, violet, pink, and red). Select the fusion mode and these colors slowly change. Choose the freeze mode to “freeze” your favorite in place. Durable plastic and aluminum provide lasting insulation when ice or water is added. Frosted semi-transparent finish. Rechargeable. Includes LED SMD power supply/charger unit. Takes approximately 4 hours to fully charge. Stays lit approximately 8 hours when charged.

It retails for $179.95 a pop.

Sneezing Tissue Box

Getting into a non-stop sneezing bout is no fun, but thankfully for positive folks, there is always reason to laugh with the Sneezing Tissue Box.

Good thing the tissues are handy cause this guy might startle the snot out of you if you’re not paying attention! Motion-activated tissue box cover will make one of six funny noises, such as the sound of a nose being blown, one loooong sneeze, or three short sneezes in succession. On/off switch located on top inner rim. Uses 2 AA batteries.

The Sneezing Tissue Box ought to fit most standard square-style tissue boxes with its 6.5″ x 6″ x 5″ measurements.

Wii Light Sword

It is hard to believe that it has only been a year since the Wiimote has been released. Since then, Nintendo has made it a modern electronics icon. The way a user could use it as a sword in Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess has eventually led to this.

Play.com is offering an attachment to your Wiimote with the Wii Light Sword. As you can see, it is a saber attachment for your Wii that uses 22 ultra bright LEDs. It is powered by 3 AA batteries which I am assuming is apart from the two AAs normally required to power the Wiimote.

I am assuming that whoever made this product is meant to go somewhat in tandem with Star Wars: The Force Unleashed, a game where a player can use their Wiimote like a lightsaber. Why not add this visual element for greater excitement? Of course, you don’t need the game to want one of these.

Of course, judging by the picture that I can see, I can’t help but wonder if the lightsaber blade looks a little…small. But the last thing you want is saber-envy, and after all: “Size matters not. Look at me, judge me by my size?”

I believe the Wii Light Sword will be available soon at a price of about $31.00. Now, if it only made the humming noises.

Samsung FlipShot from Verizon

Considering that most cell phone cameras are just tacked onto the cell phone program, you usually get what you pay for, which is nothing. However, Samsung’s Flipshot may prove that the cell phone camera maybe as good as a real camera.

The Samung Flipshot is offered from Verizon, and it has 3 megapixels of camera and camcorder action. As you can see, the display is a nice rotating display for some serious action. The display itself is a 240 x 320 260k color TFT.

Other features include a business card reader, digital zoom, living wallpaper, V CAST capable, speakerphone, messaging services, VZ Navigator, as well as a personal organizer with calendar, calculator, notepad, alarm clock and world clock. It also has Bluetooth capability for headsets, car kits and other compatible devices.

One can only hope that cell phone cameras like the FlipShot will set a new standard for cell phone cameras. Perhaps there will come a day when we simply take out our cell phones to take pictures and have as much confidence in the results as we do our regular cameras. If that is ever the case, then the camera business could suffer a loss.

The FlipShot is available now at Verizon Wireless for $199.99 and a two year contract.

Multi Color your ride

Changing the paint color on your car is a time-consuming affair - your workshop mechanics will need to go through a whole lot of disassembly and prep work, not to mention lengthy amounts of time in a spray booth followed by hand blocking sessions where you could grow a 10-foot beard by then. There is a new technology being developed that makes color change a simple affair of twisting a knob. This variable-color paint involves a special polymer coating that has paramagnetic iron oxide particles in it, changing their alignment whenever a current passes through the coating, which results in a different way light is reflected - and voila! Your eyes will see a different color.

Bloggerwave.com

Full Description : Do you have a blog and want to make some extra money? Then bloggerwave gives you the opportunity. Bloggerwave is aiming to be Europes biggest advertsing media on blogs and you can also be a part of the program. Just write about what you think about Bloggerwave and make some extra money.

Things you need to keep in mind or say some requirements for being a bloggerwave user :

Minimum Words : 50
Opportunity Video : No
Opportunity Link : http://www.bloggerwave.com
Language : French, Norwegian, Swedish, Italian, English, German, Spanish.

You have taken this Opportunity with :
Know Gags

One Step CD/DVD Copier

If you have a computer, I’m sure you’ve had to make copies of DVDs or CDs at one point or another in your life. But what if your job and/or profession requires you to make lots of copies of discs? What if you’re an indie musician and you need an affordable way to make copies of your latest album without paying a company thousands of dollars to make the copies for you? What if you’re a photographer and you need to make copies of photo discs for your wedding clients and all 45 family members? What if your computer just can’t handle that heavy of a workload?

Enter the One Step CD/DVD Duplicator. I could go on and on about the features but the websites says, its the best.

Fog Screen Walk

FogScreen is the creator of the first walk-through projection screen made out of “dry” fog in the world, and has partnered with American Exhibition Services to deliver it to the exhibition industry. The whole idea of this partnership is to enable FogScreen to reach a greater breadth of consumers while providing AES’s show managers a truly innovative way to “wow” their audiences. According to Bliss Beasley, Executive Vice President at AES, “This relationship with FogScreen, Inc. allows us to offer trade show organizers a very compelling product that can truly differentiate their shows, while ensuring their messages reach their targeted audiences. Together we can offer trade show organizers the ability to offer walk-through advertising and sponsor messages. The exhibition industry can also enrich exhibitors’ results by capturing attendees’ attention with vibrant colors, images and messages that literally float in the air.”

MC Square X1 - Digital Relaxant

MP3 players are nothing new, and any newer model will probably be ignored unless it has the little “i” in front of it. The MC Square X1 is one who choose to market on a different level: it can help you relax.

In fact, certain sources have revealed that doctors at the University of Pennsylvania and Thomas Jefferson University have put the MC Square X1 through some clinical tests and have discovered it can give better sleep in addition to improved concentration, memory improvement, and overall relaxation.

Flashing hair braid

Most women (including yours truly) spend thousands of dollars a year on hair care. Shampoos, conditioners, serums, waxes, pastes, gels, mousses and hairsprays used to clean, soften and style. We spend countless hours drying and straightening and curling and fluffing up our hair. We spend upwards of $50 for just a haircut - and don’t get me started about the cost of a foil! We buy trinkets and baubles to put in our hair after spending those thousands - clips, barrettes, pins and so on. However, there’s one thing that I’ve never spent a dime on…hair extensions. Sure, most women have had some sort of fake hair extension at one time or another, whether it be a permanent weave or just a temporary clip in type, but there’s never been a niche market for fake hair extension braids that light up. Seriously, it’s never come up.

Regulators put pressure on Sprint

Although Sprint has coughed up some $1 billion over the past few years in order to nix the interference between 2,200 public safety agencies across the US and its iDEN network, it apparently hasn't done enough. Reportedly, the FCC has warned Sprint that it "could lose access to the signal spectrum used by its Nextel- and Boost Mobile-branded wireless services" if it doesn't remedy the problem by June of 2008. Supposedly, Sprint is "working hard" to settle the issue, but it's not wasting any time asking the US Court of Appeals to get involved. The carrier claims that these shut down threats could force it to halt signups of Nextel-branded customers, and furthermore, around three million public-safety workers would purportedly lose service if the FCC did indeed shut down the Nextel network. 'Course, industry analysts are suggesting that regulators wouldn't really go through with shutting it down, but if nothing else, this should light a fire under Sprint to expedite the process.

TwinMOS proves that people loves shine

I’ve carried many USB drives over the last few years. My first was a very boring 128MB Memorex stick. They didn’t really make them fancy back then, it was cool enough to be carrying one at all. Like the rest of my flash drives, it was likely lost or broken. Needless to say, I’ve seen a lot of them. I’m not really sure why, but Mobile Disk P1 from TwinMOS really caught my eye.

I suppose that it’s human nature to be drawn to things that are shiny. I can’t really explain it, but if you see a glint of something out of the corner of your eye, you just instinctively want to look. That’s why people are bound to notice this particular flash drive. It has a mirrored surface, and six multicolored LEDs that light up when it is plugged in.

Just looking at this, you get the impression that there’s more than meets the eye. Unfortunately, the most exciting thing you’ll find is the retractable USB plug. Pricing and availability are not currently known on this product.

Samsung CX305T - The 30 Inch Wide LCD Screen

Samsung has released in Korea the CX305T, which is their latest “large” LCD screen. The LCD features a 30 inch screen with a 2560×1600 resolution, a 1000:1 ratio for contrast, a 400cd/m2 brightness, and a fast 6ms response time, in a nice design. But don’t forget, it is not free..! You’ll have to shell out about US$1,650.00 in order to buy this LCD. More pictures after the jump!

Folding Binoculars

Now here’s another gadget gift idea for your little on this Christmas - the Foldaway Binoculars.

Just brilliant! Binoculars that just fold completely flat and which an agent can keep in their pocket, until they are needed. Really good optics and just brilliant for when you are on a mission, or just to take to the theater, or horse racing. Suitable for 7 years and upwards.

I doubt you’d be using these at the racetrack though, since your dignity is worth much more than the £4.95 you fork out for this.

Maxtor and Sentry Group Fire Rsistant Cabinets for hard drives

As much as I would like to say that I am one of those persons who takes out their hard drives everyday and makes certain that it is safe from all harm, I’m not. I would imagine that there are some people who will even remove their hard drives and put it in a safe every night.

Fortunately, Maxtor has teamed up with Sentry Group to create a new level of security that is simply incredible. All these drives can withstand a day under water and 1550 degrees. So if your beach house is set on fire and then falls into the ocean, you have a day to fish your hard drive out.

The FIRE-SAFE Waterproof Hard Drives are designed to protect from fire and water damage. Available in both 80GB and 160GB, just to plug it in.

The FIRE-SAFE Waterproof Data Storage Chest is for those who want to store their devices such as MP3 Players, digital cameras, even CDs and DVDs.

The FIRE-SAFE Water-Resistant Safes are built for USB connectivity and stores your hard drive. There is also space for about 72 CD’s and DVDs.

If you want some extra space for your disks, you might want to use the FIRE-SAFE Waterproof CD/DVD file can organize 100 disks.

If you want to find a place to buy them, check out their site. You might end up paying quite a bit, though.

Touch Screen Cell Phone Watch

The Touchscreen Cell Phone Wristwatch has a great feature set considering it’s small size. Of course you can make and receive calls (dial by pulling the tiny included stylus from the side of the watch and tapping the numbers on the screen) but you can also play MP3 files, watch movies, store hundreds of phone numbers and send SMS messages and enter schedules or notes with basic handwriting recognition.

Unlike the iPhone you won’t need to change contracts to use the iMobile, it comes to SIM but you will need a SIM card from either T-Mobile or AT&T/Cingular to be able to use it. So you can use your normal phone by day but then switch the SIM and go to full geek mode with the mobile watch.

You can buy the iMobile for $249.99, it is in stock now but I’ve noticed before with gadgets like this they tend to sell out quite fast.

Mini Phone Based Ghetto Blaster

Now ain’t this a hoot - a built-in MP3 playing boombox that comes in the form factor of a mini slider cellphone. You can even opt to pop in your SIM card into the back of the Mini Boombox Cell Phone, whereby any incoming calls will result in it ringing, with the option for the phone to read aloud the numbers of incoming calls using voice synthesis.

Features of the Mini Boombox GSM Cell Phone are as follows:

Mini cell phone features a sliding keypad and built in boombox for playing MP3 music files

Quad-band unlocked GSM Phone (850/900/1800/1900 MHz), GPRS Speed for Data

Powerful Amplified Speakers

Sends SMS and MMS messages. Supports SMS group sending

Can play back MP3 music files and display Movie Files

Supports MP3 or MIDI based ringtones

WAP Browser

Built-In Speakerphone

Optionally reads the numbers of incoming calls with voice synthesis

Built in 256MB Memory expandable up to 4GB

Transfer files via USB

Better Blogging software from MicroSoft

We’re all used to bashing Microsoft. Security holes, unstable software, monopolistic tendencies - you can point fingers in all those directions. But if you’ve been watching for the past few years you’ll see that things have been changing. Developers are much more in contact with the community via blogs. Stability is much improved over the bad old days (if you think XP is unstable, you’re too young to remember Windows 3.1…) MS Products are even starting to play nicely with non-MS software.

Which brings me to the Windows Live product suite. Specifically Windows Live Writer. It’s really rather good.

Live writer is a desktop blogging application - think of it as an HTML editor, customised for use with Blogging engines. So what makes it so neat? For starters, it offers you a WISYWIG view of your post-to-be. That’s trickier than it sounds, because to do that it has to connect to your blog, download your specific styles and blog layout template then offer you an editing view based around a single post. It also has standard HTML editing functions such as table and style editing and a preview function to show the post as it will appear on the blog.

Dealing with images is easy - just drag and drop them from wherever they live on the PC into your post. They’ll get uploaded along with the post. I think that’s the killer feature for me, I can upload an image and the text in one hit from one place without navigating a sometimes painful web UI.

Spell checking? Integrated and automatic.

When you install it you get the choice of creating your own blog on Live spaces - fair enough if you don’t already have one. If you already have a blog (say, CG for example ) it asks you for your login details. Then it connects, downloads its styles and you’re away.

The really cool (and most unexpected) thing is that it supports a variety of non-MS blogging engines. The list includes Wordpress, Blogger and of course Live spaces amongst others.

Give it a go. I’ll certainly be using it more in the future (assuming this inaugural post makes it up to the blog intact that is!).

Microsoft Word will create audio from words

In the never ending quest for Microsoft Office to become more popular, they will release a plug-in that will transform the content inside Office 2007 files into audio. This new feature will be available at no cost, and will come in a shape of “Save as Daisy” function available in Word files.

In the geek world, Daisy is also known as Digital Accessible Information System, which basically are XML files that offer the possibility to be read by “speech synthesizers”. SourceForge is also collaborating in the creation of the new plug-in that is suppose to become available next year (2008). In case you are wondering, the digital narration service is specially used by different kind of people that have different kinds of “problems”, such as people with visual disability, or people that have the Parkinson’s disease.

Duracell power for Laptops

If you’re anything like me, you tend to carry around a multitude of gadgets. Naturally, when any of these goes dead while I’m away from an outlet, I tend to go into a panic. I try my best to keep them all charged up, but sometimes you just can’t help it. That’s why it’s handy to have some backup power for your gadgets.

Duracell has recently launched their PowerSource Mobile 100 unit which promises to provide more than a little extra juice to your portable devices. It features two USB ports and a single AC outlet which will let you power just about anything. This little guy isn’t like some other solutions that only powers your cell phone for an hour or so. This particular gadget will power a laptop for up to two hours, a cell phone for 18 hours (that’s talk time) or an MP3 player for up to 96 hours of play time.

Obviously, not all devices are created equally, so you’ll have to take those times with a grain of salt. One thing is for sure though, you’ll get plenty of juice out of this guy. It does however come with a heafty price tag. While it will set you back $140, it will definitely show its worth the first time your laptop dies on the road.

IN Focus In 1 Gaming Projector

When I first saw the InFocus IN1 Gaming Projector, I thought it reminded me of a droid extra in Star Wars. Specifically, that little one that patrolled the halls of the Death Star, and ran the other way when Chewie roared at it. (What was the point of that scene, anyway?)

There may not be any wheels under the InFocus IN1 Gaming Projector, but if you had one, believe me, it wouldn’t be going anywhere. This has to be one of the first times I’ve ever seen a projector specifically targeted at the gaming audience, but it probably won’t be the last time.

The InFocus IN1 Gaming Projector has got to be the ultimate for gamers. It boasts that it can turn your normal gaming experience into an entirely new reality as it projects a 640 x 480 screen in a one hundred inch diagonal. According to the specs, it’s maximum is 210 inches. Not only is the vision good, but the speakers are also very kicking with their dynamic sound.

The InFocus IN1 Gaming Projector is so targeted for gamers that it comes with Wii and Xbox cables, and ads for it mention: “Oh yeah, it can also do television or DVDs if you want”.

Other specs include a contrast ratio of 1500:1 and a brightness of 500 Max ANSI lumens. It is capable of SDTV, EDTV, HDTV, NTSC, PAL, and SECAM. It is powered by DLP Texas Instruments Technology and is only available on Woot. It is going to be hard to resist the urge to buy this.

Philips Digital Frame Alarm Clock

Every once in a while, you will find some new product that really does it all. The latest to top my list is the Philips AJL308, which is a 7-inch picture frame, alarm clock, radio, as well as an MP3 Player.

It appears to do all these jobs quite well. As a picture frame, for example, you can upload pics from the SD/MMC slot, and I can only assume from the USB slot. That’s right, it has a USB slot, and you can even use it to upload video clips from your computer.

As an alarm clock, you can program the Philips AJL308 to wake you to your favorite FM station or MP3 music. It also has a gentle wake mode that gradually increases the volume of your music as you groggily wake up.

The FM radio has 20 presets, and I believe that I’ve already discussed the advantages of the MP3 Player. What I haven’t discussed is the fact that the picture frame has a large time readout as well as some Vista-like calendar things going on as well.

I have to admit, the Philips Digital Picture Frame/Alarm Clock/FM Radio/MP3 Player looks like quite a deal for your money. I believe it is available at Amazon for about $130, but I have heard that it really isn’t supposed to be. Therefore, you might have to wait a little while before you see the Philips AJL308 in stores. However, it looks like a gadget that is well worth the wait!

Bence Bogar's Concept Phone

Designer, Bence Bogar, releases a concept phone which he claims is the “perfect phone in the world”, which means he claims his concept phone is better than iPhone. The concept phone has 2.8″, 5.0-MP digital camera, 512MB Ram, micro SD (T-flash) expansion slot, WIFI support, built-in Bluetooth technology, and built-in GPS features.

B20, iRiver's Mini DMB Television

IRiver has announced the release of the all-new mini DMB television, the B20. It is equipped with 4 GB of flash memory which you can expand through the miniSD memory card slot. It has a 2.4-inch LCD display with 320 x 240 pixels and a range of colors of 260k. It also has a FM tuner that can be used also as a voice recorder. It supports MPEG-4, OGG, MP3, WMA, WMV9 formats and you can also view JPEG images on it. The battery holds for 26 hours of MP3 playback, 5 hours of videos and 4 hours of DMB TV. The price is set at 267$ for the 4 GB version and 213$ for the 2GB one.

ASUS working on Tablet Mac

That’s the word on the street. The inside word. According to sources close to our friends over at Crave, Asus has admitted “on the q.t.” that they are working with Cupertino to develop a Mac Tablet computer. And considering that Asus makes iBooks, PowerBooks and MacBooks for MacHeads, this rumor could have some credibility. It just all depends on how solid the source is.

The talk is that the MacLet will have a multi-touch capability, essentially making it an iTouch on steroids, running on the Leopard or above and powered by a MacTel chipset. And since Cupertino has already filed a patent on something similar, the details seem to be up to snuff. But anyone who is completely obsessed with all things Jobs would know that the devil is in the details, and that the best rumors are those with a grain of truth to them.

Still, tablets are extremely popular with those in the medical and construction fields, and Apple has been quietly carving a niche for business applications for years. So, if a MacLet is in the cards for Cupertino, and this “Deep Throat” figure is on the level about Asus’ collaboration on it, we can expect some interesting keynotes down the road. But that’s true regardless.

PC Sahara TufTab with LCD Touch Screen

If don’t have a desk job you and your computer is not safe strapped to your office desk then you are aware of the special precautions for your laptop when, for instance it is raining, you are traveling on a dusty road, living in a humid climate or are on a bumpy ride. Well, that means the guys from Tablet Kiosk were thinking of you when they designed the heavy-duty portable PC Sahara TufTab.

Equipped with an Intel Celeron 1.0GHz processor and 1 GB of RAM, the Sahara TufTab is not only all muscles but has brains too. It is able to connect through Bluetooth, it is highly secured by fingerprint scanning and its 12.1” LCD touch screen has a feature that’s lacking most laptops, you can see the writing even under bright sun-light.

It weighs no more then 1.7 kg. You can carry it around using a hand strap. It has Windows Microsoft XP preinstalled but also has an extra option of installing SUSE Linux. The prices begin with 2.099$.

Ping Pong Door

I suppose the title needs a little explanation. I mean, what is a Ping Pong Door? Is it a door that plays ping pong? That would be odd, but I suppose if that a door opened at the right time could hit return a serve.

Perhaps a better term for it would be Ping Pong Table Door, because that is essentially what it is, a door that can transform into a ping pong table. Okay, maybe transform isn’t the word, especially after that really cool Transformers movie. All the Ping Pong table do is fold down, but this simple thing is enough to make it very cool.

After all, many of us may not have enough space in a single room for a ping pong table, but we might have that between two rooms. That may limit play time due to the doorframe, but it might give it an interesting element of play as well. It might be better than Wii Table Tennis.

The change can happen in just seconds, which means all you need to do is add on the net and you’re ready to paddle! I’m wondering if you can fold it half way up so you can play solo with multiple balls, like Forrest Gump. I’m also wondering if the green pattern is going to be a permanent part of your door, resulting in some serious damaged decor.

So far, this Ping Pong Table is only in the design stage, but I have heard that the Ping Pong Table could be out as early as next year.

Cybook reading on the go

The Cybook from Bookeen has many of the same features that you’ll see in similar products. It uses an e Ink screen which has a high contrast that makes reading easy, even in direct sunlight. eBooks rate their battery life differently than most products. Due to the nature of the e Ink technology, it only uses power when you change the image being displayed. Thus, the battery life is measured in page turns rather than hours, this particular product will take over 8,000 turns.

You get 64MB of internal storage along with an SD slot for memory expansion. That should give you plenty of room to store even a large collection of classic novels. If you’re looking for an alternative way to read your books, the Cybook is definitely the way to go. You can pick one up for $350 directly from Bookeen.

Wind Up Phone Charger Keeps you Connected

We’ve all had it happen to us. You’re out running errands and the battery in your Motorola RIZR dies. You’re at work with no charger and your Nokia N95 is chirping its low battery alert pathetically. You swear to the deity of your choice when you just can’t find the right charger for your Samsung M300. Or the worst of them all, you’re in a power outage and need to charge your cell phone.

It is a great gadget that will provide power to your cell phone after a few minutes of turning the fishing reel-like hand crank. After those few minutes, you will have 25-30 minutes of charge restored to your cell phone.

The Wind Up Phone Charger also has a built-in flashlight so in case you misplace anything in that power outage, you can find it again with no trouble. Unless you lose the Wind Up Phone Charger.

Since it runs on “people power”, it is also eco-friendly - perfect for the gadget-loving green freak on your holiday shopping list!

Sony 7-layer holographic discs for recording

Sony has recently wrote and read data on a medium which is the equivalent to a 7-layer disc, courtesy of its “Micro-Reflector method” - a multilayer recording technology using holographic recording. Sony took the opportunity to blow its trumpet at the recently concluded ISOM ‘07 in Singapore, making a speech concerning the speeding up of data transmission speeds, improvement in memory density per layer as well as increasing the number of recording layers even more so that an absurd amount of data can be stored on a single disc (and to think they already have trouble filling up a Blu-ray disc at this point in time…)

Using the Micro-Reflector method, lights are shed on both sides of a holographic medium. The focus points of the lights will then meet and interact with each other in a recording layer, forming interference fringes. Each interference fringe will be able to store up to 1 bit of information, and in order to read data stored on it, a light is shed on one side of the medium. It might baffle some to think that while interference fringes are recorded on holographic media, why is Sony touting this to be a multilayer recording technology instead? There is a very good reason for that - interference fringes can be recorded in layers of various depths as if they are recorded on multilayer media if the depth of focal point is changed.

So far, Sony has managed to achieve a memory density of 1.2GB per layer, calculated in terms of a 12cm disc. So far all experiments have involved a small disc of about 8cm in diameter, where interference fringes were recorded on a concentric area of about 200μm in the diametrical parallel direction. At the end of the day, this effort will see Sony push itself closer to its goal of manufacturing a 500GB 20-layer disc by the time 2010 rolls around. Would we still be storing data on physical media by then, or would Google control the entire world’s storage without doing evil? Hopefully the US dollar will be worth something then though.

Google Phone with Open Source Platform

While Apple goes to extreme lengths to keep the vastly overpriced iPhone locked down so as to protect their lucrative deal with AT&T, Google has gone the other way in announcing their Open handset Alliance. The alliance joins 34 companies which will accept the Google Phone and it’s open source mobile platform called Android.

The Android platform is the first step in this direction — a fully integrated mobile “software stack” that consists of an operating system, middleware, user-friendly interface and applications. In addition, handset manufacturers and wireless operators will be free to customize Android in order to develop new products faster and cheaper.

T-Mobile, HTC, Samsung, LG and Motorola are amongst the leading wireless providers who have joined together to provide an open format for cellular communications which will also foster innovation on mobile devices and giving consumers a far better user experience.

Consumers should expect the first phones based on Android to be available in the second half of 2008.

USB Lighter doubles as Flash Drive

I thankfully never took up smoking, as I’m perfectly content sticking to my addiction to the caffeinated beverages. However, the countless smokers out there will no doubt agree that it’s a pain to always keep a lighter on hand. Some get small ones that they can fit in their cigarette pack, while many just keep one in their pocket. Unfortunately for those geeky smokers out there, that usually means having a lighter and a flash drive floating around in your pocket all day. Why not get something that combines the two?

I’m sure you’re wondering how you would manage to cram a USB flash drive into a lighter and still find room for the lighter fluid. That might be cause for concern, were this to actually use a flammable liquid, however, it does not. Rather, it builds on the same concept as the lighter you find in most cars. It uses small resistance coils powered by a rechargeable battery. Here’s where it gets really fun, in order to recharge the battery, you plug it into an available USB port. You won’t have to worry about remembering to plug it in for recharging all the time because it doubles as a flash drive, which you will no doubt use regularly. Unfortunately, if you’re looking to purchase one of these, you’ll be sad to hear that it is currently only a concept design.

PED3 Rotating Stand for IPhone

I must say, watching videos on a portable media player on a long haul trip can be quite a pain on your hands if you have to hold it, but thankfully we have peripherals like the PED3 Rotating Stand for iPhone. This is pretty much a self-explanatory product that can be rotated 360 degrees, gripping the iPhone in both vertical and horizontal manner with some semblance of cable management thrown in. After splashing out that kind of dough on the iPhone, forking out another $40 for the PED3 Rotating Stand ought to be chump change.

ESPN and Microsoft get together for Xbox Live

ESPN has reached an agreement with Microsoft to release TV shows and complete games to the Xbox 360 gaming system. The content will be available at the “online entertainment network” also known as Xbox Live.

While ESPN has been in iTunes since last year, the time has come to reach a new audience with Xbox users. Some of the TV shows and full-length games that will become available at the Xbox Live Marketplace, include NCAAA college football games, Summer X Games, and episodes of ESPN shows such as “World Series of Poker” and others.

Price?
- TV shows go for $2 in standard definition, or $2.40 for HD quality
- full-length games (not live) start at $3 for the “low quality” versions, or $4,50 for HD

Lexon LCD E8 Wall Clock

Now, cover half of the picture posted and try to figure out what the first clock is saying. Well, it says that the time is 12:59, how do I know that? Every column represents a number, the number of squares lighten up on each column tells you what how many minutes or hours have passed. Brought to you by Lexton, this Wall Clock has also a smaller brother, in the form of a wrist watch that has the same confusing time-telling way.

You can keep this clock on its very own built-in stand on your living-room wall and in the mean time have fun watching the confused faces of your visitors trying to figure out just what’s the time. You can buy the Lexon LCD Wall Clock for only 203$. Small price to pay for the laughs you’ll have.

Pillete

Pillete, the new concept of Bluetooth headset is so tiny, it’s almost invisible to the untrained eye when you are wearing it. So you don’t have to worry anymore about looking like Robocop when walking down the street with it, but you have to consider the possibility of people starting to think you’ve lost your marbles and you’re talking to yourself.

The downside is the fact that people have different sized ears and the device might be to small and slip out or to big and not fit. People who often use earphones will tell you I’m right. But once they’ll figure out a way to make the Pillete adjustable, this design will be the future of all headsets.

Flyclear Card

All of us who have been on a plane know about how long you have to wait before you can board because of the annoyingly thorough check-ups you have to pass before you can go on your trip. But from now on you can leave all those controls behind thanks to the new Flyclear card. And it only costs $99.95 a year and the fee for TSA of $28.

To get one, you have to go to a Clear center and present two official identification cards. Then you have to take a photo and give them your biometric information. They suggest that you should have a US passport, but foreign people are welcomed to.

So now you can eliminate the stress from your plane trips, not worry about those hidden pierces and miss a lot less planes. The Flyclear has already been put into function but for very few airports like Orlando, San Jose and JFK and the service is not available all day long. But there are plans to expand this technology.

TripleWatch

The idea of a cellphone watch is not so new, the TripleWatch designed by Manon Maneenawa has an interesting triple flip technique that allows the user to transform the watch into a normal cellphone. When used as a wrist watch, the phone has a speaker button that allows the user to answer the phone and hang up while driving.

Dark Label Retroxis Phone

The Black Label Retroxis phone by designer Lim Sze Tat reflects a retro
approach towards design with clean aesthetics, optimum controls and functions.
It is sheathed in high genteel polycarbonate prominent for its lightweight and stiffness and the imperceptible OLED display silently hides away when inactive to make your phone look clean and stylish.

Apple Concept Phones

As iPhone is already out with that, we thought why not put together a gallery of Apple concept phones that have littered the tech blogs. We almost went with 5, but then decided to be cliché and follow in the foot steps of so many other blogs and feature 10 concepts. Ranking in no particular order

Benq-Simens Black Box

Black Box designed by Benq-Siemens uses a touch screen as its keypad and, depending on the functions you are using, the touch screen changes the control layout immediately.

Sky - Sleek and Slim

"Sleek and Slim" from SKY is another concept based on touchscreen technology. The phone has a discretely glowing touchpad, hideaway keys and generally utterly-fashionable minimalist design.

DXG-110 - 10 megapixels on the cheap

We all know that megapixel count isn’t the end all and be all where digital cameras are concerned, but the DXG-110 certainly surprises by bringing 10 megapixels’ worth of goodness to the table without breaking the $200 barrier - in fact, it retails at the highly affordable price of $169.99 without sacrificing both quality and features. You get a 10 megapixel CCD sensor, a generous 2.5″ high resolution TFT display, 3x optical zoom and 4x digital zoom, VGA video recording at 30fps, digital voice recording, an SD memory card slot and 32MB of internal flash memory just in case you need to capture that extra shot after running out of SD cards.

USB Beverage Chiller

Like your drinks cold and close to you? This USB pad will chill any drink. All you have to do is plug it into an USB port and put a glass on the pad. Temperature of the drink will go as low as 45?F.

Only thing to watch out for, try not to spill on your keyboard.

Cuin5 Concept phone

CUin5 mobile phone is inspired by the big firm’s designs of a ‘super-practical’ interface with the all-too-typical feature set. Every face of the phone carries a keypad, microphone, and speaker. The part you touch first gets active while all other edges are in lock mode.

Nokia Aeon Concept Phone

The Nokia Aeon concept was somehow inspired by Synaptics Onyx. The full surface touchscreen display phone concept is indeed cool and tempting but who knows? Nokia is tight-lipped to make any comments on the phone.

Bracelet phone

When this Bracelet phone receives any message, it starts vibrating and making or receiving a phone call is just too easy. To read the message, take the bracelet out of your wrist and press the diamond-like keystroke.

It’s not just another run-of-the-mill concept. Instead, the bracelet phone comes with a built-in MP3 player. With this phone on your wrist, you are definitely going to rock the party and make others green-eyed.