Handy Gadgets

Gizmodo have come into possession of one of LG's BH100 (Blu-ray Disc and HD DVD High-Definition) Players and have posted their "First review' of the gadget which is capable of playing both Blu-ray and HD DVD discs. 'Right off the bat, I'll tell you that the rumors that the HD-DVD compatibility is half-assed are absolutely true. One of HD-DVD's strongest points is its interactive menus and video features, like the ones we wrote about in our Fast and the Furious HD-DVD review. This player didn't support the menus on this movie, and some of the special features, like being able to repaint a race car in the movie, were only found when I manually skipped to the chapter. Even then, the only thing you can depend on is that the movie will play. Which may be enough for many, but not enough for those who want the most from both formats.'

Read: First Review: LG BH100 Hybrid Blu-Ray/HD-DVD Player (Verdict: Format War Still Blazing) - Gizmodo

Posted by Admin at 12:24 PM | Permalink

PC Magazine has published a review of the new Microsoft Windows Vista operating system which is now available to consumers at large. 'After more than five years of intensive effort—and more than a few setbacks—today Microsoft announced that Windows Vista is complete. The company's decision to release the product to manufacturing means that it will be available to volume-licensing customers—large companies, that is—at the end of November, and to consumers and small-business buyers around the end of January 2007. In the meantime, hardware and software vendors have some time to tune their products to improve compatibility, and system OEMs have the opportunity to finalize their deployment and support processes and begin stocking retail channels. For now, many OEMs have begun offering PCs that quality for Microsoft's Express Upgrade program, under which customers who buy a Windows Vista Capable or Windows Vista Premium Ready PC today can upgrade for a (typically nominal) fee set by the manufacturer.'

Read: Microsoft Windows Vista - PC Mag

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The Ford Edge SUV with HySeries Drive powertrain is the world's first drivable fuel cell hybrid electric vehicle with plug-in capability. 'Ford Motor Company unveiled the world's first drivable fuel cell hybrid electric plug-in that combines an onboard hydrogen fuel cell generator with lithium-ion batteries to deliver more than 41 mpg with zero emissions. The vehicle is built on a flexible powertrain architecture that will enable Ford to use new fuel and propulsion technologies as they develop without redesigning the vehicle. This vehicle offers Ford the ultimate in flexibility in researching advanced propulsion technology, said Gerhard Schmidt, vice president of research and advanced engineering for Ford Motor Company. We could take the fuel cell power system out and replace it with a down-sized diesel, gasoline engine or any other powertrain connected to a small electric generator to make electricity like the fuel cell does now.'

Read: Ford Edge with HySeries Drive - Automotive Intelligence News

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Tech Digest have reviewed the Sony DVDirect VRD-MC3 DVD Recorder which allows you to record both video and digital photos to DVDs without requiring the use of a PC. 'The form factor is quite distinctive – pretty typical for Sony – although it does look like two different units have been squeezed together. But at least it should be at home on a desk or table. It also has a weighty, robust feel to it, so even though it doesn’t look particularly ideal for carrying around, should you want to take it out and about instead of weighing yourself down with a laptop, it should hold up pretty well.'

Read: Review: Sony DVDirect VRD-MC3 - Tech Digest

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The TechLounge have posted a review of the Linksys CIT300 dual mode Skype phone which connectc via the USB Base Station to your PC and allows you to interact with your Skype contacts with the cordless handset. 'The product we’ll be taking a look at today is the iPhone CIT300 from Linksys. This isn’t just your simple everyday cordless phone though, because not only does it support your typical landline connection, but it’s also compatible with Skype. If you’re not familiar with Skype, it’s simply a Voice Over IP (VoIP) service that allows you to talk to other Skype users on the computer for free. The catch is that you both need to be at your computer in order to talk, using a microphone and speaker/headphone combination or a headset of some sort. While it’s great that you can make free PC-to-PC “calls” in this fashion, the obvious downside is that you’re tethered to your computer for the duration of the conversation. With the CIT300 cordless phone however, this is not the case since you can use it to access your Skype contacts and converse with them as if you were still seated at your computer.'

Source: The TechLounge Via 14U News

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The JVC HA-NC80 stereo noise canceling headphones are a relatively affordable pair of headphones which comes with a a dual-prong adapter for in-flight use. 'JVC is a decent brand to consider if you're looking for noise-canceling headphones but are working with a limited budget. The company's HA-NC100 headphones, for example, are comfortable, offer solid sound quality, and can be found for less than $80 online. At $49, an even cheaper option is the JVC HA-NC80. These 'phones aren't as comfortable as the NC100s, but they get the job done. The HA-NC80s' completely circular shape and relatively small 2.5-inch diameter are no doubt responsible for the uncomfortable fit. However, the headphones aren't overly tight--and the earcups have some cushy padding--so those with less sensitive ear cartilage may find them suitably comfortable. The cord is plenty long at 5 feet, but it doesn't retract like that of the HA-NC100. The HA-NC80 headphones fold up flat into a semicircle--it's not the most compact design we've seen, but JVC does include a travel pouch for transport. There's also a dual prong adapter for in-flight use and a AAA battery for the noise cancellation feature.'

Read: JVC HA-NC80 Noise Canceling Headphones - CNET

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CNET have reviewed the Lexmark X9350 All-in-One Printer which features built-in wireless connectivity and automatic two-sided printing. ' The Lexmark X9350 is reasonably sized for an inkjet all-in-one device. It stands 18.3 inches wide, 15.1 inches deep, and 10.6 inches tall, and it weighs less than 23 pounds. Its glossy white-and-brushed-silver body evokes the Apple aesthetic. An ADF sits atop the scanner cover and can hold up to 50 sheets of originals. Using the ADF, you can scan or copy legal-size documents; the largest original the flatbed scanner can accommodate is A4. The X9350's paper-handling options are basic and straightforward. The input tray pulls out from the front of the printer and holds up to 150 sheets of plain paper. The cover of the input tray serves as the output tray, and a pullout arm helps to corral longer sheets. In the bowels of the output tray resides a small media feeder, which lets you manually insert single sheets of photo paper or envelopes for one-off prints (as opposed to swapping out the contents of the input tray). We had significant problems printing photos via the manual feed tray: no matter what adjustments we made, they came out crooked. When we loaded the 4x6 photo paper into the main paper tray, though, we didn't have any problems. You can purchase an optional second input tray for a total input of 300 sheets. You can also adjust the input tray to accommodate a length of tear-off sheets for banner prints. '

Read: Lexmark X9350 All-in-One - CNET

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If you experience difficulty from the inhalation of the various perfumes and colognes worn by your work colleagues, the acquisition of a tabletop Silent Air Purifier from Sharper Image may be one option for you to purify your work space. Not only does this gadget boast of silent operation but its removable front grill has an "OzoneGuard" feature which converts by-product ozone to oxygen. The Silent Air Purifier stands 13" tall, uses no more than 8 watts and plugs into standard outlet with an AC adapter (included). Since there are no filters to change, maintenance should be relatively easy with a quick wipe of the grill every now and then to ensure dust-free operation. The Silent Air Purifier costs $199.95.

Sharper Image TABLETOP Silent Air Purifier

Posted by Admin at 2:00 AM | Permalink

The Oakley Thump PRO digital music eyewear are some neat fashion pieces which combine a "digital audio engine" with Oakley’s renowned "high definition optics". The glasses, which come in 1GB, 512MB and 256MB versions, has the digital player built into the frame so there is nothing to dangle around your face to serve as a distraction whether you’re running, biking or simply sweating it out in your aerobics session. The speakers are fully adjustable so you can position them for a perfect fit and control the balance of music and environment. The Oakley Thump PRO is compatibility with iTunes, Windows Media Player and WinAMP. You can store up to 240 songs on the 1 GB version, 120 songs on the 512 MB version, or 60 songs on the 256 MB version.

Oakley Thump PRO Via: Tech Digest

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The Pharos GPS Phone is a sleek smartphone which features quad-band Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) cellular mode, Global Packet Radio Service (GPRS), EDGE, WiFi, Bluetooth, along with a two mega-pixel camera and FM radio. 'When handling the Pharos GPS phone during the Consumer Electronics Show, I was taken aback by its size. This is mostly because it was extremely thin. It felt like I should have been carrying a much thicker device. In contrast to the Palm Treo 750 that was beside it, the Pharos model felt a lot like a credit card or small memo pad.'

Read: Pharos GPS Phone First Thoughts Review - Brighthand

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A review of the Plantronics Discovery 665 Bluetooth headset which comes with three soft gel ear tips and an optional ear stabilizer loop has been posted over at ZDNet. 'The Discovery 665 is slimmer and more tapered than its predecessor at 0.4x0.5x2.0 inches (the 655 measures 0.6x0.5x2.0 inches), and it weighs less than 0.3 ounce. Even though it also comes in a silver and black finish, the color scheme is reversed when compared to the Discovery 655. Everything else about the Discovery 665 headset remains the same: three different rubberized ear gel pieces for your comfort, an optional flexible ear hook for more security, a simple square multifunction button on the front, as well as two tiny rubberized buttons for the volume controls underneath. As with the 655, we weren't too fond of the tiny buttons. Though they are raised from the surface of the headset, they still proved a bit tricky to press when the headset was worn on our ear.'

Read: Plantronics Discovery 665 Bluetooth Headset - ZDNet

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The Moixa USBCell NiMH AA rechargeable batteries can be used in normal battery applications and recharged simply by plugging into a USB port. 'At first glance, the USBCell doesn't look all that much different from AA batteries that we've all used at one time or another to power our gadgets. There's a positive (Green end) and negative end just like typical AA batteries.The difference is immediately noticeable when you remove the positive end of the battery to reveal a full-sized USB connector.'

Read: Moixa USBCell Rechargeable Batteries - The Gadgeteer

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The Car Buyer's Notebook records approval its review of the 2007 Volvo XC9 SUV. 'For 2007, the XC90 gets an all-new 3.2-liter in-line six-cylinder engine that replaces the previous five cylinder, resulting in 235 horsepower, an increase of 27 hp, and an identical 236 lb.-ft. of torque. Volvo is still offering the V8 option that develops 311 horsepower and 325 lb.-ft. of torque. The new 6-cylinder and the V8 both meet the stringent ULEV II emissions standards. The new six-cylinder, which we drove, indeed produces enough power so that potential buyers don't have to automatically default to the V8 if they're looking to ensure they have enough power -- the six delivers.'

Read: Test Driving the 2007 Volvo XC90 - Car Buyer's Notebook

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A preview of the Nokia N800 Internet Tablet has been posted over at Brighthand. 'This model has approximately the same form-factor as the 770 but it's not exactly identical. It felt very comfortable to hold. On its back, there's a bulge across the top, where the stylus slot and web cam are, so I don't see how anyone could drop the device.Speaking of the web cam, this located in a small, retractable arm that looks a bit like a cell phone antenna. It can be twisted around to face forward or backward. It allows N800 users to do video chatting. The front of this handheld is dominated by the 800-by-480-pixel touchscreen. This device doesn't have an integrated hardware keyboard, but Nokia engineers have worked hard to make one unnecessary. Here's my favorite feature. If you touch the icon to open the on-screen keyboard with the stylus, you'll get a small one suitable for use with a stylus. If, on the other hand, you touch the icon with your fingertip, a much larger keyboard opens, and this one can be typed on with a finger.'

Read: Preview: Nokia N800 Internet Tablet - Brighthand

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CNET have previewed the new Apple iTV $299 set top box which is designed to stick next to a TV. 'Apple TV is a network media box that streams movies, music, TV shows, podcasts, and photos from the iTunes library on your PC or Mac to your HDTV. The box, which looks like a squashed Mac Mini and measures 7.7 by 7.7 by 1.1 inches (including an integrated power supply), connects to your TV via either HDMI or component video and audio, and wirelessly syncs content from your iTunes library so that you can enjoy it in the living room using the included remote. As promised, Apple TV will be available in February for $299; you can order it online now. The first bit of good news is that Apple TV uses 802.11n; it can connect either to an 802.11 AirPort Extreme Base Station--also announced at Macworld--or directly to a newer Mac with integrated AirPort Extreme. If you do not have 802.11n, you can also connect it via wired Ethernet. The faster 802.11n protocol means Apple TV should deliver smoother video streaming, even at HD resolutions, and make the product more futureproof. (Whether you can stream from existing 802.11g devices--or do so at acceptable speeds--is unclear.)

Read: Apple TV- CNET

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If you are on the lookout for a handy backpack to secure your laptop and/or photographic equipment on that next hiking trip, you can check out a review of the neat Tenba Shootout Bag over at Digital Camera Review. 'The Shootout is constructed of water resistant, sturdy nylon. It’s constructed very well and looks very rugged and I would trust the bag with plenty of expensive hardware. There are plenty of straps to allow adjustment for wearing comfort, for accessories, and to keep your load secure. The nicely padded shoulder straps are augmented with an equally padded waist strap and a sternum strap. You know that when a bag comes with a manual on how to fit the bag to your body, that it’s serious about being comfortable. To add to the comfort factor, every area on the bag which touches your body is covered with wicking, padded panels. There are plenty of exterior features before you even open the bag. The zippers are weather sealed. There are compression straps along the side of the bag to keep your load secure, or you can swap them around to attach to another piece of rolling luggage. Elastic straps criss-cross the back of the bag so you can stuff in soft items like a jacket.'

Read: Tenba Shootout Bag - Digital Camera Review

Posted by Admin at 11:11 AM | Permalink

DirecTV, the satellite television service provider which is part of the Rupert Murdoch media empire, is set to launch the "World's First Fully Integrated, Portable Satellite and TV System". 'Going where no other television service provider has gone before, DIRECTV, the nation's leading digital satellite television service, is introducing the world's first fully-integrated, portable satellite and TV system - DIRECTV(R) Sat-Go (Satellite-To-Go). This new product, created by DIRECTV and TV producer/writer, Rick Rosner, was unveiled today at the 2007 International Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. Scheduled to launch in spring 2007, DIRECTV Sat-Go will come in an easy-to-carry, briefcase-like design that includes a 17-inch LCD monitor with integrated DIRECTV Receiver, flat antenna and replaceable/rechargeable laptop-style battery. Once the DIRECTV Sat-Go unit is opened, its quick and simple setup makes it easy for customers to find line-of-sight with DIRECTV satellites and receive DIRECTV(R) programming within minutes (provided the user is within range of the DIRECTV signal).'

Components:
• Integrated 17-inch LCD monitor and satellite receiver with two speakers
• Compact and portable flat antenna and satellite receiver
• DIRECTV(R) programming accessed through a platform based on DIRECTV's D11 set top box
• Small profile IR remote
• Component and composite A/V inputs
• Composite A/V out
• Satellite in connection
• Phone Jack
• USB connection
• AC and DC capable (cigarette lighter adapter included)
• Rechargeable, replaceable, laptop-style battery

DirecTV Press Release Via: Engadget

Posted by Admin at 3:02 AM | Permalink

The TrekStor Vibez is a hard drive based MP3 8GB player which supports WMA, OGG and FLAC formats. 'Put the TrekStor Vibez in the ring with the 8GB iPod Nano, and it'll win at least a few rounds. For starters, it costs less--a lot less if you shop online. TrekStor sells 8GB, 12GB, and 15GB versions of the Vibez for $219.99, $239.99, and $259.99 each. However, we found the 8GB model at online stores for around $170--a pretty substantial savings over the $250 8GB Nano. The 12GB model had an even lower street price: $200. (The 15GB model isn't shipping yet.) The Vibez also supports music-subscription services such as Napster and Urge. It offers both voice and line-in recording. It even sports an oversize scroll wheel that's much more comfortable than the Nano's cramped miniwheel. Plus, you can add an optional FM tuner, though we're puzzled as to why TrekStor didn't make this a standard feature. So, does the Vibez manage a knockout punch? Not quite, but it definitely scores a knockdown.'

Read: TrekStor Vibez (8GB) - CNET

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The model 02 1-pound PC features an integrated backlit thumb keyboard, track stick, WiFi 802.11a/b/g and Bluetooth 2.0 technology 'The model 02 is about the size of a T-Mobile SideKick 3 and fits into the palm of your hand. You hold this 1-pound wonder cradled in both of your hands, while your thumbs do the typing. On what, you ask? Push the 5-inch LCD screen upward to reveal a QWERTY thumb board that has a total of 58 keys, including left and right mouse buttons, a pointing stick to drive the cursor, and a conveniently located number pad. The look and feel might conjure up images of the Sony VAIO VGN-UX180P, which has a similar keyboard and a sliding 4.5-inch LCD screen. The keyboard on the OQO model 02 is better in many ways. The keys are bumpier than those on the model 01, and far better than the flatly laid-out keys on the Sony UX180P. Each key is remarkably comfortable. They're quick, too; I can thumb-type a full page of notes in a reasonable amount of time. Many of the keys are laid out intuitively: The pointing stick is on the far right-hand side, while separate left and right mouse buttons are situated on the left-hand side. Backspace, Enter, and Spacebar keys are all oversize, as they should be. The number pad is designed to look like a phone, and punching in numbers is definitely a pleaser. In contrast, the Sony UX180P has the number keys positioned in a line across the top, similar to a laptop keyboard but without a number pad. The two Zoom (in and out) buttons also come in handy for magnifying text on the miniature screen. Like the UX180P, the model 02 has a backlit keyboard for low-light situations, and you can turn it on by using a combination of the Fn (Function) and KBD (Keyboard) keys.'

Read: OQO model 02 - PC Mag

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ZDNet have posted their review of the PalmTreo 750 smartphone. 'Like the European version, the Palm Treo 750 carries a smaller footprint than Treos past, largely thanks to the integrated antenna. At 4.4x2.3x0.8inches and 5.4 ounces, it's only marginally smaller than the Treo 700wx (5.1x2.3x0.9 inches; 6.4 ounces), but it is more compact than some other Window Mobile Pocket PC Phone devices, such as the HP iPaq hw6900 series and the UTStarcom XV6700. That said, it will still make for a tight fit in a pants pocket. The smart phone features a soft-touch finish that gives it a rubbery texture and makes it easier to grip. The curved and tapered edges also make it comfortable to hold in the hand and to use as a phone. On the front, there is a 2.5-inch diagonal, 65,000-color touch screen with a 240x240 pixel resolution. As we've said in the past, the lower resolution is disappointing. Colors looked washed out; text and images just weren't that sharp, and the display is also a bit difficult to read in direct sunlight. Below the screen, the standard navigation array consists of two soft keys, Talk and End buttons, a shortcut to the Start menu, an OK button, and a five-way navigation toggle. As we found on the 700w, the Treo 750 is easy to operate with one hand, thanks to the well-placed controls and touch screen. The Today screen is also customizable to give you convenient and quick access to widely used apps, such as your in-box or calendar. In addition, you can easily dial by name just by entering the first couple of letters of a contact or conduct a Web search by typing terms in the appropriate entry field.'

Read: Palm Treo 750 (Cingular) - ZDNet

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Trusted Reviews reports on the launch of the new iPhone from Apple. 'So with the opening keynotes from this year’s MacWorld 2007 Apple finally got around to unveiling the worst kept secret in the technology world: the ‘iPhone’. So was it worth all the hype? The answer has to be an unqualified YES. Although the product branding will surely meet with legal threats from Cisco. Jobs’ announcement was greeted with a level of acclaim I’ve never before witnessed in my seven years as an IT journo and his proclamation that the device is “Three revolutionary new products” in one rings true (please excuse the pun).'

Specifications:
• 11.6mm thick
• 2 megapixel camera
• Speaker
• Mic input
• iPod connector
• Quad band GSM+EDGE phone
• Accelerometer (detects how you're holding it and adjusts screen)
• Ambient light sensor (auto-dimming)
• Proximity sensor (when you bring it to ear, turns off display and sound)
• Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 2.0

Read: Apple Launches iPhone & Gets It Right! - Trusted Reviews

Posted by Admin at 2:17 AM | Permalink

A review of the Qstarz GPS receiver has been posted over at Digital Reviews. 'Those who haven't read our previous review of the Qstarz BT-Q818 may not know that Qstarz has been bringing out some innovative GPS receivers of late, including the "Double 32". These are all excellent performers with high sensitivity and great endurance. That means that our expectations for this tiny receiver, are set very high. Perhaps unreasonably high considering its small size. Well, as far as sensitivity is concerned the 20 channel GPS receiver is based on the renowned SIRF Star III chipset which guarantees excellent performance even in marginal conditions such as urban canyons. In our testing the nearest high-rise cityscapes are 450 kilometres away but we did test the Qstarz BT-Q920 GPS Receiver under high tree canopies and away from windows.'

Read: Qstarz TINY GPS Receiver with MP3 Function - Digital Reviews

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The new JVC Everio GZ-HD7 HD camcorder though pricey in the near $2,000 range, delivers to the consumer market a truly professional piece of equipment. 'JVC has developed the first consumer full High-Definition 3-CCD camcorder capable of shooting and recording full HD images (1920 x 1080i). The technology will be offered in the new HD Everio GZ-HD7 to be available in April 2007, marking the technology’s first use in a consumer camcorder. The camcorder also features a Fujinon lens used in broadcast video cameras, now being used in a consumer camcorder for the first time. The 3-CCD system offers superior color reproduction. Amid rapidly rising market needs for full HD equipment, JVC borrowed from its other high-quality, high-resolution image technologies developed over many years of camcorder research to develop this system, including its progressive CCD camera system, 3-CCD camera system, super high-end processor, and new HD Gigabrid high-resolution signal processing engine.'

Read: JVC Press Relese Via: Engadget

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Celestron has launched its new VistaPix IS70 digital spotting scope which is a a digital spotting scope with a camera built in. 'The VistaPix IS70 features a 70mm spotting scope with 14x magnification. The 3 megapixel camera features a 2” LCD screen for a sharp, clear imaging preview; 6x digital zoom; a digital focus meter for quick, sharp focus; dual power for high magnification or wide field of view; and continuous video capability. And with its great close focus, the IS70 can capture amazing detail -- perfect for getting up close with a variety of nature's treasures both great and small. Other IS70 features include a rotatable tripod adapter that fits standard photo tripods or Celestron computerized mounts and the ability to view images on your TV screen with the included video cable. The IS70 also includes a protective carrying case for travel and storage. All VistaPix IS70 models feature Celestron’s 2-year warranty.'

Source: Celestron Via: Engadget

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Toshiba has launched its HD-A20 second generation HD DVD player at the Consumer Electronics show (CES). 'At CES, Toshiba is introducing the new HD-A20, which is expected to retail at $599.99. With the 1080p capabilities of the HD-A20, Toshiba has taken high definition to the next level at an attractive price point. The HD-A20 joins the existing Toshiba HD DVD line-up which includes the entry level HD-A2 and the top of the line model, HD-XA2. This expanded line of products offers enhanced functionalities of the HD DVD format and is proof of Toshiba's commitment to the smooth transition to the next stage in high definition entertainment. To meet the latest advancements in Audio/Video interfaces, Toshiba's models connect to HDTV sets via High Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI(TM)) - the multi- industry-supported, all digital A/V connection capable of providing the transmission of uncompressed digital video and multi-channel audio on a single cable. To match the resolution of your display, Toshiba's HD DVD players output HD DVD content through the HDMI interface in 720p or 1080i for the HD-A2, and 720p, 1080i or 1080p for the HD-A20 and the HD-XA2. Through the HDMI interface, standard definition DVDs can also be upconverted to match the resolution of HD displays. The HD-A2, HD-A20, and HD-XA2 are all backward compatible, so users can continue to enjoy their libraries of current DVD and CD software.'

Read: PRNewswire Via: Engadget

Posted by Admin at 12:34 PM | Permalink

Samsung has launched the BD-P1000 Blu-ray player at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES). The BD-P1200 is the first second generation player to date. 'One of the BD-P1200 player's key new features is its Hollywood Quality Video (HQV) processor, which is a powerful unit similar to those used by Hollywood production studios. With its HQV processor, the BD-P1200 player offers true 1080i to 1080p HD de-interlacing, so it can deliver the best HD images possible ? ven from non-Blu-ray formats. The player¡¯s HDMI connection helps boost the sound quality (via 7.1-channel Dolby Digital Plus) and color. This HDMI connection also offers Anynet+ (HDMI-CEC) technology, which enables a single remote control unit to operate the BD player, TV and other A/V products from Samsung. With the BD-P1200 model¡¯s HDMI connections, consumers will get superior audio/video quality, with incredible ease and convenience of use.'

Read: Samsung Press Release Via: Engadget

Posted by Admin at 12:08 PM | Permalink

Lets Go Digital previews the new 7.2-megapixel i70 digital camera from Samsung which was launched a couple days ago at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. 'The premium Samsung i70 digital compact camera features an innovative sliding cover which, when opened, reveals the intuitive 9-button User Interface. The Samsung i70 has an eye-catching, body design and special surface finish. This combines with multimedia capabilities to make it a particularly attractive camera for people who demand entertainment on the move. The Samsung i70’s multimedia capabilities include a Portable Media Player and an MP3 player so the user can have video and music on the go. It also has a text viewer that enables you to read whilst listening to music.'

Read: Samsung i70 - Let's Go Digital

Posted by Admin at 11:32 AM | Permalink

The Brando MP4 Watch combines a music player, digital watch and voice recorder in a neat device designed to be worn around the wrist. 'On the left side of the watch, there is a stereo earphone jack. It's a 2.5mm mini jack though, so your favorite earphones/buds will require an adapter if you wish to use them with this watch. On the flipside, these are pretty good stereo earbuds, that will work with other phones like a Treo! The two buttons next to the earphone jack are the Volume up / down buttons. The small button on the end is the Play/Pause button. The Play/Pause button also doubles as the power toggle button if you hold it down for a few seconds.'

Read: Brando MP4 Watch - The Gadgeteer

Posted by Admin at 4:31 PM | Permalink

CNET have reviewed the affordable Technocel T50 Bluetooth headset. 'If not for its interchangeable faceplates, the T50 is pretty boring in the design department. It has a blocky, rectangular shape, and, at 2.28x 0.92x 0.55 inches and 0.52 ounces, its glossy black plastic shell is a little bulkier than most boomless headsets. On the front, there's a small but tactile multifunction button as well as the volume rocker. On the top is the charger jack, while the earbud and flexible ear loop are on the back. The earbud comes with a rubberized cover for additional comfort, and we especially loved the ear loop, one of the most flexible ones we've seen to date. It's flexible up to 360 degrees and can be bent and twisted for maximum comfort. The headset did feel comfortable when worn in the ear, though it did take us a while to get the right fit. It also didn't feel terribly secure, and the earbud popped out of our ear a few times.'

Read: Technocel T50 Bluetooth headset - CNET

Posted by Admin at 4:39 PM | Permalink

A review of the budget-priced Ultra Hydra Mp3 Player has been posted over on the Technology Review. 'Water can kill electronic gadgets if it seeps in and short-circuits the innards. So the Ultra Hydra MP3 player is made to be ''splash-resistant.'' Its rubberized casing, which makes the device resemble a river raft, should protect the circuitry from limited encounters with moisture. Because a 1-gigabyte Hydra retails for just $40 and can be found for even less online, I figured it was worth checking out. I sampled three of its 2-gig cousins ($60) in a variety of circumstances, including some notoriously watery locales: Seattle and my shower. The results were pretty good, though I should include a variation of the disclaimer that accompanies extreme TV clips: Don't try all of this at home. After all, the Hydra's makers are careful to say it is designed to endure ''accidental splashes'' and not full immersions. In fact its owner's manual advises, without a trace of irony, ''avoid contact with liquids.''

Read: Review: Ultra Hydra Mp3 Player - Technology Review

Posted by Admin at 3:23 PM | Permalink

The Archos 504 portable video player and photo viewer is now available from Amazon for $359.99 with free shipping.

Features:
• Lightweight and portable digital video, movie, music player and photo viewer with easy-to-use, intuitive controls and a bright 4.3-inch TFT LCD screen
• 80 gigabyte hard disk lets you store up to 40,000 songs, 800,000 pictures, or 226 regular movies or 58 DVDs, or any combination thereof
• Compatible with MP3, WAV, WMA and protected WMA music files, JPEG, BMP, and PNG picture files, and MPEG-4 and WMV video files
• Uses high-speed USB 2.0 for both file transfers and charging, and includes a removable, rechargeable Lithium-Ion polymer battery with up to 17 hours of music and 5.5 hours of video life
• Lets you play music through a stereo or videos over your TV via an optional docking station, weighs only 11.15 ounces, and measures approximately 5.1 x 3 x 0.9 inches (W x H x D)

Read: Archos 504 Review

Posted by Admin at 2:54 PM | Permalink

Gizmodo have posted a "hands-on" review of the Helios X3000 media player which allows you to stream PC-stored movies, music and photos, along with internet media content straight to your television over wired or wireless network. 'The features the X3000 has in common with the H4000—5.1 surround audio via optical or component audio outputs, HDMI, component, and VGA video—don't disappoint on the X3000. Upscaling DVDs looks great on our HDTV set in 1080i, and the 5.1 surround sounded solid on our setup as well. But the new stuff performed admirably too.'

Read: Helios X3000 Upscaling Network DVD/DivX Player Hands-On - Gizmodo

Posted by Admin at 12:34 PM | Permalink

The HP Photosmart A618 printer can produce prints up to 18 x 13cm dimensions and comes with and integrated Bluetooth support 'The sheer ease of use in the A618 is by far its greatest asset – it really is about as straightforward as printing can be. All you have to do is pop in any compatible storage card/stick and it automatically sniffs out all your photos, even if they are hidden away in multiple layers of subfolders. Then you hit ‘print’ and that’s it. Of course there a few other options to play with, such as adding multiple pics per page. The zoom buttons quite cleverly allow you to zoom out to select multiple photos to print one after another, or you can zoom right in to only print a certain section of a photo, which is a convenient way of doing things.'

Read: Review: HP Photosmart A618 - Tech Digest

Posted by Admin at 3:52 PM | Permalink

The Marantz VP11S1 projector has been reviewed over at ZDNet. 'LCD and LCoS projector manufacturers have had 1080p resolution projectors on the market for a couple of years now, including models such as the excellent Sony VPL-VW100 that we reviewed last year. Enter Marantz, who managed to beat all the front projection DLP makers to market with the VP11S1, the first available one-chip DLP projector with the highly coveted 1,920x1,080 (1080p) resolution chip set. Now the three display technologies--LCD, LCoS, and DLP--are on more of a level playing field in terms of performance, features, and specs. Sure we had a couple of complaints, but overall, the Marantz VP11S1 is a very formidable performer in the category. And it better be, because this projector lists for a penny under $20,000. For the few who can afford it, the VP11S1 comes close to the ultimate in home theater image quality.'

Read: Marantz VP11S1 (black) - ZDNet

Posted by Admin at 4:50 PM | Permalink

You do not need a Home Pizza Maker Oven if you desire to bake your own adaptations of the popular Italian open-faced baked pie. However, if you have reason to acquire a dedicated pizza maker, the stone based Pizza Maker Oven can have your meal prepared in five minutes. The primary advantage of owing such a gadget would be the control to determine just what goes inside your pizza thereby excluding unhealthy additives which may be included in home-delivered pies. 'The oven has a removable traditional stone base. This delivers intense heat, absorbing any moisture, ensuring your pizza has a crisp base right from the centre to the crust. When using the deep dish you can make frittatas, omelettes, deep dish pizza, pancakes and with the lid open it becomes a fry pan. The Pizza Maker is compact, measuring 36cm in diameter, and sits on your kitchen worktop.' The Pizza Maker Oven is available from Kitchen Land for £60.45.

The Pizza Maker Oven@KitchenLand Via: Coolest Gadgets : Red Ferret

Posted by Admin at 12:39 PM | Permalink

Proton has introduced two LCD televisions from its new premium line of flat-panel displays which are to be displayed at the 2007 International Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. ‘The P47D5 and P42D5 are exceptionally high quality 47- and 42-inch, high-definition, widescreen, flat-panel TVs. They boast brilliantly clear, progressively scanned 1080p HD resolution, built-in digital and analog tuners, and HDMI inputs. The movie-style widescreen aspect ratio is augmented by conventional 4:3, 16:9 Zoom, and Panoramic display modes. Dual-picture functions — Picture-in-Picture and Picture-on-Picture — provide alternative ways to watch TV. The P47D5, in addition, features a high contrast ratio of 1200:1, a brightness level of 500 nits, and a pair of built-in 5-watt speakers.’

Read: Press Release Via: Engadget

Posted by Admin at 8:22 AM | Permalink