Tuesday, July 31, 2007

Washing Machine Washes Clothes Without Detergent – Just Add Water



The Haier WasH20 is a new and innovative washing machine that allows you to wash your clothes WITHOUT detergent / washing powder.

The Haier WasH2O works by breaking water molecules into its OH- and H=+ ions components. OH- acts as the cleaning agent by attracting and retaining stains while the H+ ions sterilizes the clothes.

Currently it is only going to be sold in France, but if it takes off, it could head stateside.

Source: Freshome

Read more!

The BBQ in a Tube


Ever wanted to carry your BBQ with you when you have been on a trip? Well the Grilliput ‘BBQ in a Tube’ will let you do that. It measures a mere 29cm long and 2.2cm wide when closed and open it measures 23x26cm. As you can see it will fit easily inside a backpack

Pair it with the Grilliput Fire Bowl Portable/Collapsible Fire Holder; A collapsible zinc-coated steel fire bowl, that measures 16 x 16 x 8.5cm (collapsed) and 28 x 28 x 6cm (extended). The adjustable fins also allow you to create a chimney effect so that heat can be directly aimed at the desired point. Pack both of these and you are all set for that impromptu BBQ.



Source: T3 and Amazon

Read more!

The BooM1 2.1 Channel iPod Audio System


The BooM1 is a 2.1 channel audio system designed for most versions of the iPod. This interesting design is small in size and big in sound. The BooM1 System packs 8 watts per speaker and the BooM1 subwoofer packs 25 watts.

More info:

• BooM1 is compatible with most models of iPod® with dock connector, including iPod® G3/ G4/ G5/ mini/ *shuffle/ nano/ video/ U2.
• BooM1 charge most models of iPod® automatically (except iPod® shuffle).
• IR remote control of BooM1 apply to most models of iPod® (except iPod® shuffle).
• Interconnect MP3 and CD players with 3.5mm stereo audio jack.
• The perfect 2.1ch system combination with proprietary acoustic technology to deliver the tender powerful bass and crystal mids and highs.
• BooM System - 402 (L) x 80 (W) x 57 (H) mm; BooM Subwoofer - 229 mm (diameter). 232 mm (H)

The Boom1 should retail for around $199

Source: Twinmos via Engadget

Read more!

Monday, July 30, 2007

Roadside Camera Counts People in your Car


Researchers over in the UK have developed a camera vision system that that automatically counts the number of people inside a vehicle. Such a system could be used to charge road tolls based upon the number of occupants, and monitor high-occupancy vehicle lanes.

Its inventor, John Tyrer of Loughborough University, UK, claims the system is 95% accurate. "The step-change technology is the ability to look inside a car and count people," Tyrer says.

Unlike previous systems that use cameras and computer algorithms to spot the number of faces through the windscreen of a car, the dtect system uses infrared light to detect human skin, and a computerized facial recognition system to double-check.

The system works by shining infrared light with a wavelength of about 1550 nanometres through the windscreen of the car. This is absorbed by the skin (does not dazzle occupants) creating a dark area on the reflected infrared image. Other materials, such as hair, upholstery and clothing simply reflect the infrared light. To make sure the dark patch is really a face the system then looks for light in the visible red portion of the spectrum. Human skin will produce a highly reflected shape that can be matched with the infrared image.

Finally, the system analyses the size and the shape of both images, to make sure it's looking at a face and another part of the human body

The Dtect system has been tested on the campus at Loughborough University, and also on the Forth Bridge in Scotland.

Source: New Scientist and Vehicle Occupancy Ltd

Read more!

Samsung G600 Mobile Phone-Camera


Over in Europe they will soon have the chance to check out the Samsungs G600 mobile phone. Sporting an impressive 5 megapixel camera and 2.2 inch screen, this slider phone could be in the running to replace your phone and digital camera; especially as it allows you to re-touch photos directly on the phone.

The folks over at T3 have a hands-on video that shows the G600, so see for yourself below:

Samsung G600 Specifications –
• GSM 850 / GSM 900 / GSM 1800 / GSM 1900 Network
• 2.2 Inch TFT Display with 16M colors/240 x 320 pixels
• 30 dialed, 30 missed calls & 30 received (Call Records)
• Phonebook
• MP3 & Polyphonic Ringtones
• Vibration
• Customization
• 55 MB Built in Memory plus microSD (TransFlash) Card Slot
• GPRS Class 10 (4+1/3+2 slots), 32 - 48 kbps
• Bluetooth v2.0 with A2DP
• EDGE Class 10, 236.8 kbps
• USB v2.0
• WAP 2.0/xHTML & HTML(NetFront) Browser
• Email, SMS & MMS Messaging
• Games
• 5 Megapixel Camera 2592х1944 pixels/autofocus/flash/image stabilizer & video
• MP3/AAC/AAC+/e-AAC+/WMA player
• Stereo FM radio
• Java MIDP 2.0, T9, Organizer, TV out, Built-in handsfree, Voice memo & Bluetooth printing
• Up to 300 Hours Standby
• Up to 3 Hours 30 Minutes Talk Time
• 102 x 47.8 x 14.9 mm
• 105 g

No word on Stateside release.

Source: T3

Read more!

Samsung i85 More Than Just a Camera


Samsung today announced their new 8.1 megapixel camera; the i85. But this is more than just a camera, as it boasts the capability to play back music and video as well. This brushed aluminum camera boasts a 3 inch LCD screen and is a mere 0.74"x2.42"x0.8".

The phone also comes with PMP functionality, which enables users the ability to enjoy movies, music videos, television shows and even their favorite music while on-the-go. In addition to PMP, the i85 also features Samsung's innovative World Tour Guide function, which provides travel information covering 4,500 regions in 30 countries

Other specs include: 5x optical NV zoom lens, Samsung ASR image stabilization, ISO 1600 sensitivity, and 256MB of onboard memory with SDHC expansion

Available in the fall for around $349

Source: PRWeb

Read more!

Sunday, July 29, 2007

The XAV-W1 in Car Audio Video System from Sony


If you are looking for an in car audio / video system, check out the XAV-W1 from Sony.
The XAV-W1 is claimed to provide ‘high quality video and audio as well as connectivity to MP3 players and various personalization options’.

The new XAV-W1 features the SA-CD audio format and also the accompanying 5.1-Channel surround sound option. It has a 7-inch video screen (measured diagonally) that incorporates the WVGA TFT high-end standard for picture quality.

XAV-W1 specs in brief:
Support for SA-CD playback
5.1 channel audio in the form of Dolby Digital surround sound and dts Digital Surround Processing
7 inch display with WVGA resolution
Supports CDs, DVD video playback
JPEG, WMA, and MP3 file format support
Satellite radio and Apple iPod ready with controller devices sold separately
Support for Sony HD Radio tuner
Includes remote control which allows back seat passengers control of the system
Rear auxiliary input - universal 3.5 mm mini-plug input
Delivers 52 watts across four channels
3AV input to connect other A/V devices
Zone by Zone support allows users to set separate audio zones for front and rear seats

You will be able to pick up the Sony XAV-W1 for around $800 dollars when it becomes available in August.

Source: Sony Press Release

Read more!

Thursday, July 26, 2007

Fijifilm's New 7 Megapixel FinePix Z10fd


Fujifilm will be releasing their new 7 megapixel FinePix Z10fd in September. Available in 5 colors (Wave Blue, Wasabi Green, Hot Pink, Sunset Orange, and Midnight Black), the FinePix Z10fd combines 3x optical zoom, a 2.5″ LCD on the back and a 54MB internal memory. The FinePix Z10fd is compatible with SD/SDHC and xD media cards.

Additional features:
Fujifilm's Face Detection Technology, is a one-touch selectable mode that identifies up to 10 human faces in a scene

Automatic Red Eye Removal feature

Innovative IrSimple™ technology for fast, easy wireless image transfer to any IrSimple™ equipped device

Equipped with Fujifilm's handy Blog Mode that lets you post pictures to blogs, websites, auctions, or e-mail with ease by copying and automatically resizing any image you've captured to a properly sized 640x480 (VGA) (or 320 x 240)

FinePix Z10fd will hit stores in late September retailing for $199.95

Source: Slipperbrick

Read more!

Wednesday, July 25, 2007

HP Offers Students and Teachers 15% Off


HP is now offering students and teachers an exclusive promotion that will give them 15% off all eligible students and teachers purchasing HP’s consumer products.

For more detailed information, check out www.hpshopping.com/student

Source: HP Press Release

Read more!

Tuesday, July 24, 2007

Sony's Elevated Standard Home Theater Recievers


If you are looking at investing in a new audio/video receiver, then the folks at Sony would like you to check out there latest offerings in their ‘Elevated Standard’ (ES) lineup. These systems are compatible with latest audio formats including Dolby Labs’ Dolby® Digital +/Dolby® TrueHD and dts® High Resolution Audio and dts® HD Master Audio.

The STR-DA5300ES, STR-DA4300ES and STR-DA3300ES 7.1 channel models offer iPod® intergration through the receiver’s Digital Media Port feature and optional iPod audio dock (TDM-iP1), sold separately.

Additionally, the Digital Media Port feature allows users to add other optional accessories such as a PC WiFi client for streaming digital music (TDM-NC1), a Bluetooth® receiver that allows users to connect to various compatible Bluetooth-enabled devices to the receivers (TDM-BT1), as well as the Network walkman

The STR-DA5300ES will be available in September for about $1,700, while the STR-DA4300ES ships in October for about $1,300. The STR-DA3300ES will be available in August for about $1,000



Source: Sony Press Release

Read more!

Monday, July 23, 2007

Picoforte One iPod Music System by KEF


The Picoforte One iPod music system from KEF is a simple digital music system for the iPod that packs an impressive 50W class D amplifier. Each component (dock, amplifier and speakers) are milled from die cast zinc and come clad in either high gloss black or white finishes.

Compatible with all versions of the iPod and other mp3 players, this system is a very attractive option for anyone in the market for a docking music system.

The KEF Picoforte One music system should be available in August for £250. No word on USA availability.



Source: KEF

Read more!

Logitech VX Nano Cordless Laser Mouse


Need a wireless mouse for your laptop; then check out this latest offering from Logitech. The Logitech VX Nano Cordless Laser Mouse is always ready using the ‘plug and forget nano-reciever’, which Logitech claim is the smallest USB receiver as of March 2007.

The VX Nano includes a hyper-fast scroll wheel, laser tracking, and 2.4 GHz cordless technology. Other Specs:

Battery life up to 6 months (longer if you use the on/off switch)
Forward/backward buttons, wehich allow you to navigate the internet with ease.
Five programmable buttons: Customize the mouse controls to fit your needs with included SetPoint software (or, for Mac users, with downloadable Logitech Control Center software).

The Logitech VX Nano should retail for around $70 or check out the VX revolution for under $50



Source: Engadget

Read more!

Friday, July 20, 2007

New Palm-Sized HD Everio GZ-HD3 from JVC


JVC just announced the launch of a new consumer high definition camcorder that combines a 3-CCD image sensor, high definition 1440 x 1080 recording and embedded 60GB hard disk storage in a compact size that fits in the palm of the hand. The new HD Everio GZ-HD3 comes on the heels of the HD Everio GZ-HD7.

Main Features of the HD Everio GZ-HD3:

3-CCD Camera System for 1440x1080 HD recording; enabling the camcorder to capture true lifelike and vivid images due to the dedicated red, green and blue image sensors. Image processing uses JVC’s HD Gigabrid Engine.

Rec Mode Resolution Recording Rate Rec Time (approx):
XP 1440×1080i VBR: max. 30Mbps 5 hrs.
SP 1440×1080i VBR: max. 22Mbps 7 hrs.
1440CBR* 1440×1080i CBR: approx.27Mbps 5 hrs.

Compact Body; Simple Controls – weight 1.5 lbs

PC-less Archiving Using Exclusive DVD Burner – using theoptional CU-VD40 HD Everio SHARE STATION via USB

Bundled HD Editing CyberLink BD Solution™

The SD card slot also stores stills and high definition video (SP mode only)

Automatic Video Light - “Auto Illumi.Light”

2.8” 16:9 Widescreen Clear Bright LCD Monitor

The JVC HD Everio GZ-HD3 will be available in early September, and will sell for about $1,300.

Source: JVC Press Release

Read more!

Thursday, July 19, 2007

Bush Do Retro With Style


Bush the UK electronics company has produced one stylish retro radio with a twist. This is not just your run of the mill AM / FM radio but a DAB/FM radio with a touch-sensitive control panel, with a two-line LCD display for showing scrolling song titles, artists and other information. The TR04DABBLK radio can program up to 10 DAB and 10 FM stations.

As you can see from the photo the radio features a glossy piano black finish and a classic 1950s Bush logo. Very cool looking.

The Bush Retro radio is currently only available in the UK (which is a shame)

Source: Crave

Read more!

Sony’s CPF-IX001 Wireless Streaming Music Player


Compact in size, the CPF-IX001 wireless streaming music player incorporates high-powered micro-speakers and a subwoofer, that can easily be networked with a PC and a wireless 802.11 b/g access point for direct playback of music stored on a hard drive.

The CPF-IX001 is also the first by Sony to include power line transmission technology that transfers both power and audio signals over the same cable.

Users will be able to enjoy Sony CONNECT™, iTunes, Windows Media Audio and other music file types stored on their PCs in the home; just load the M-crew software, connect to , switch on and the system will automatically configure to the home network.

The CPF-IX001 wireless music system will be available in October for about $300.

Source: Sony Press Release

Read more!

Sony’s RHT-G1000 Home Theater in a TV Stand


Sony has just announced that they will start shipping their RHT-G1000 ‘Home Theater in a TV Stand’ in October. According to Jeff Goldstein, VP of Marketing for Sony Electronics.

Unobtrusive home theater systems are soaring in popularity as flat-panel LCD televisions drive the market and, as a result, we have begun to merge home theater products into TV stands specifically designed for these displays
Another option the company is introducing is a TV stand with an integrated home theater system. Then you can add a Sony BRAVIA LCD TV for a full home theater experience without rear speakers.

The stand comes complete with concealed multi-channel surround sound speaker system, S-Master digital amplifier and Sony’s S-Force Pro virtual surround sound processing.

Rears speakers can also be utilized via the units rear speaker terminals. The Sony RHT-G1000 will retail for around $1300



Source: Sony Press Release

Read more!

Sony's TAV-L1 Sliding Home Theater System


Sony has announced that it will be releasing its unique TAV-L1 ‘all in one’ TV with nuilt in home theater system in August. What’s unique about the TAV-Ll, just take a look at the picture below.

The TAV-L1 has a unique sliding speaker system. When the TV ( is covered (as shown above), the system acts like an audio system with the ability to play CD’s and SACD’s using the built in slot loading CD player. When the unit is in the open position (see below), the TV is revealed and the surround sound speakers enhance your viewing pleasure.

The TAV-L1 all-in-one home theater system features a motorized audio unit that with a push of a button automatically slides down, revealing a 32-inch LCD flat-panel HDTV.

The combination LCD TV/home theater system incorporates a slot-loading DVD/CD/SACD player, two powerful vibration canceling subwoofers, Sony’s S-Master® digital amplifier, and Sony’s S-Force® Pro virtual surround sound processing for realistic surround sound without rear speakers.

As an added bonus, you will be able to buy additional colored speaker grills, if black is not your taste.

The TAV-L1 will be available from SonyStyle for $4000

Source: Sony Press Release

Read more!

Wednesday, July 18, 2007

5 iPod Contenders


If like me you are considering buying a new mp3 player, but are tired with all the iPod / iPhone hype. Here are 5 worthy alternatives to Apples offerings:

Cowon D2
The Cowon D2 MP3 player is sleek and compact with an amazing looking 2.5 inch touch-sensitive screen. It comes standard with video playback, voice recording, and an FM tuner. Also included is a unique stylus that doubles as a kick stand. Sound quality is great (according to CNET who give this 8.3/10). It’s on the pricier side when compared to rivals, but should be on your list of possibilities. Available in 2 and 4 GB’s

Cowon D2 is Available at Amazon for around $195

Samsung YP-K3
The Samsung YP-K3 is cool looking and simple to use with its intuitive menus, fast interface and good quality sound (according to CNET who give this 7.3/10) If you are a Mac user then this mp3 player is not for you. But if you are looking for an iPod Nano alternative, then consider the YP-K3 from Samsung. Available in 2 and 4 GB’s


The Samsung YP-K3 is available at Amazon for around $155


Creative ZEN Stone Plus
The Zen Stone Plus is an iPod Shuffle alternative that is worth checking out. It is priced very competitively with good sound quality and easy to use functions. It supports Audible files and has a Skip Folder function that makes it easy to skip through groups of tracks.

The Creative ZEN Stone Plus is available at Amazon in various colors for around $70

Iriver Clix2
The iRiver Clix2 is the second generation iRiver Clix that is even sleeker and slimmer than its predecessor. The player comes with an FM radio; a voice recorder; an alarm clock; support for subscription content as well as OGG and Audible files; and photo, video, and text viewing. Well rated by CNET with 8.7/10 this is one mp3 player that you should consider seriously.

The Iriver Clix2 is available at Amazon for around $195 for the 4GB version

Creative Zen Vision:M
The Zen Vision M is available in five colors with 30 or 60GB. It has a great screen, simple user interface, strong battery life, FM tuner / recorder and supports a wide range of online music stores and subscription services, as well as video formats. It has excellent audio and video quality. The downside, there is no iTunes-like video content at present and you need an adaptor for transfers and power. This is another iPod alternative that is highly rated by CNET with 8/10

The 60GB Creative Zen Vision:M is available at Amazon for around $270

Read more!

Philps Unleash iPod & Go Gear Compatible Music Systems


Philips have updated there lineup of iPod / Philips Go Gear MP3 player compatible docks ranging from the simple alarm-clock to mini-systems that feature detachable speakers, USB connectivity and ‘Dynamic Base Boost’. Currently the majority of the systems below, are available in the UK, but should hopefully migrate to the US in the near future:


AJ300D: Five speaker alarm-clockAlarm clock with remote, dual wake-up alarm, built-in radio tuner. Available at Amazon for $78.55

AZ1330D: This "Boom box" style dock includes, CD player, digital tuner with presets, remote control, 2x4W RMS sound output with Dynamic Bass Boost. Available at Amazon for $89.98

MCM138D: Mini stereo system, separate cradle, CD player, radio tuner, LCD panel, 2x2W RMS amplifier with Dynamic Bass Boost, two separate bass-reflex 3.5-inch driven speakers, £89.99 in the UK

MCM398D: Mini stereo system, separate cradle, CD player, radio tuner, LCD panel, 2x50W RMS performance via two-way bass reflex speakers with 4-inch woofer and Piezo tweeters, £139.99 in the UK

DC199: Mini stereo system, built-in dock, digital radio tuner, built-in subwoofer with 4-inch driver, separate speakers featuring metal drivers and neodynium magnets, £139.99 in the UK

DCM230: Mini stereo / "Boom box", built-in dock, USB Direct, CD player, two speakers delivering 15W of power each, £199.99 in the UK

Read more!

Tuesday, July 17, 2007

5 Ways to Cool Down this Summer


Over at PC Mag they picked 10 gadgets to help you stay cool; here are my 5 favourites:

Elecom SX-CL03MSV USB Laptop Cooler
The Elecom SX-CL03MSV USB Laptop Cooler, uses its dual fan to remove hot air from beneath your laptop. Two modes are available, Normal and Quiet, to reach the desired fan speed. Just connect it to the USB port and let it sit under your laptop. Compatible with both Windows and Mac, it sells for $49 at AudioCubes.com


Grilltek Barbecue Fan/Light Combo
Need to shed light on your BBQ and keep cool at the same time; then the Grilltek Barbecue Fan/Light Combo might be just want you need. Completely battery-operated, this flexible fan clips onto the side of any grill to not only cool you down, but blow smoke away from your face. Get it now for $29.95 from Gevalia.com.

Small Collapsible Musicooler
The Small Collapsible Musicooler from California Innovations can hold nine 12-ounce cans and features an AM/FM radio and an audio input to connect your MP3 playerPriced at $27.50 at KeepYourCooler.com

360-degree Tabletop Fan
The 360 degree fan from Frontgate means that all your guests will be kept cool this. With three speeds, it's also very portable with the carry handle. Its not cheap at $239 but your guests will be happy you spent the money.

USB Adjustable Fan
The USB Adjustable fan from USBGeek is powered surprisingly by your computers USB port. It features variable speed control, soft blades, and a foldable design and sells for only $9

Source: PCMag

Read more!