Latest Posts on Coolest Gadgets

Kamikaze Go-Kart for action lovers
Super Mario Brothers controlled with eyes
Racing video game meets R/C car, with corrugated cardboard
Tunebug Vibe Portable SurfaceSound Speaker
Dog Walker’s Dumbbells for additional workout
Zig Zag Knot Puzzle
Gadget Thumbnails for 03-Aug-2010
Gadget Thumbnails for 03-Aug-2010
Rubik’s Slide Puzzle
Panasonic has new HDC-SDX1 camcorder
Logitech Alert HD digital video security system
BlackBerry 6 announced
Samsung Electronics has new eco-friendly hard drive

Posted: 04 Aug 2010 05:00 PM PDT

This is the Kamikaze go-kart, and I have included a video after the jump of it in action. I must issue a warning: the following images could be be considered pornographic.

That is, it’s pornographic if it is action you crave. So if you get off on watching awesome action films like Die Hard, then watch the Kamikaze go-kart slam into some flaming barrels.

Yes, this Kamikaze go-kart isn’t something that you can buy in a store or on-line. It doesn’t look like a full remote control vehicle, but a transmitter, receiver, and actuators. I think all that translates to is pointing it in a certain direction and letting it slam into something.

If whoever invented this Kamikaze go-kart, I want to congratulate you. I also want to suggest that you try and sell this thing. Perhaps you set up a booth at a monster truck rally.

Please don’t interpret that last paragraph as sarcasm. I think people will always need some sort of controlled kamikaze demolition action in their lives, and this would certainly satisfy it. I mean, you see kids play with fireworks in a manner not designated by the instructions. Why not give them something that is at least designed for that purpose.

Source

Tech Cult – We cover the latest tech news, but always with a funny twist.
[ Kamikaze Go-Kart for action lovers copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]

Super Mario Brothers controlled with eyes

Posted: 04 Aug 2010 04:35 PM PDT

Do you remember when we reported on the Nintendo DS game called Kao Glider, where the player uses their face to control the game? Well, Waterloo Labs has come up with a way to control Super Mario Brothers with your eyes.

Yes, I didn’t think that was a logical progression, and I thought that I would see more face-controlled games before I would see the first eye-controlled game. Waterloo Labs did pick a classic to be the very first eye controlled game, and I have a video after the jump of how the system works.

There is a science to it by putting in electrodes around each eye, and then putting it through a circuit board that can translate into joystick movements.

Go ahead and check out the video to see these people with the eyes moving. You will note their eyes go up to make Mario jump. I can’t help but wonder if it would hurt your eyes after a while.

Also, wouldn’t moving your eyes take away your sight of the screen? In other words, if Mario has to make a jump to avoid a bad guy, could shifting your eyes upward cause you to lose sight of the enemy that you’re trying to avoid?

So, what other video games do we want to see made for the eyes? How about Tetris?

Source

Tech Cult – We cover the latest tech news, but always with a funny twist.
[ Super Mario Brothers controlled with eyes copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]

Racing video game meets R/C car, with corrugated cardboard

Posted: 04 Aug 2010 04:13 PM PDT

Once I saw this set-up, I knew that I had to report on it.

After all, it is a sit-down arcade racing game that uses a real car! Granted, it is a small, remote controlled car that goes around a corrugated cardboard track, but the R/C car has a camera so you can see as you are driving!

I have a video of it after the jump so you can see it in action, and you really should.

This looks like something that I would love to have in my own home. It would be like having a slot car set, but you could see what it was like behind the little wheel. Granted, this R/C car has to be picked up every time it rolls over after a bad curve.

It sort of makes you wonder what other video games could be improved by this little system. This particular thing looks like a racing game like Turbo and Pole Position, but what about a game of Battlezone with real tanks?

How about a version of Pac-man with a real maze and some sort of remote controlled chomping thing with a camera? I’m not certain what you would use for the ghosts though.

RACER DEMO 0.1 – video game mashup from sputnic on Vimeo.

Source

Tech Cult – We cover the latest tech news, but always with a funny twist.
[ Racing video game meets R/C car, with corrugated cardboard copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]

Tunebug Vibe Portable SurfaceSound Speaker

Posted: 04 Aug 2010 06:30 AM PDT

The Tunebug Vibe Portable SurfaceSound Speaker from ThinkGeek allows you to groove to your favorite tunes without having to lug around one large speaker (or two). This is a portable sound generator which will fit nicely in the palm of your hand. Following that, you have the option to hook it up to a compatible device such as an MP3 player, the newly launched iPad that has sold zillions, or even a notebook among others. Thanks to Tunebug’s patented SurfaceSound technology, you will be able to enjoy sound waves as they pass through the surface. This basically allows you to turn a variety of surfaces into a flat panel speaker. It measures a mere 2.3″ x 1″, making it fit into most pockets without even realizing it is there. Powered by a single LiPoly (450mAH) battery, it offers up to 5 hours of audio playback. Bring one home today for $69.99. Sounds familiar like the K-Box, eh?

Check out the Coolest Gadgets 2008 Gift Guides, Christmas shopping made easy.
[ Tunebug Vibe Portable SurfaceSound Speaker copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]

Dog Walker’s Dumbbells for additional workout

Posted: 04 Aug 2010 06:00 AM PDT

Some folks get a dog simply because they love a faithful and loyal companion, while others have one because it acts as an incentive to get enough exercise. After all, walking the dog every days is important to your canine friend’s mental health as it is a response which is required for it to fulfill its daily migratory walk quota, otherwise it will start to exhibit some destructive tendencies when you’re not around like wayward toilet habits and chewing on stuff. When you’re getting a workout while walking Fido, why not go the extra mile with the Dog Walker’s Dumbbells? It will add a dimension of an upper body workout to your daily routine, doubling up as a dog leash at the same time. There is a three-way trigger on one dumbbell which will lets out the 16′ leash, while keeping it locked at the desired length. Both dumbbells will come with a quartet of 1/2-lb. weights which can be screwed on to the 1/2-lb. handgrips, delivering a customizable weight training method for different arms. The Dog Walker’s Dumbbells retail for $59.95.

Tech Cult – We cover the latest tech news, but always with a funny twist.
[ Dog Walker’s Dumbbells for additional workout copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]

Zig Zag Knot Puzzle

Posted: 04 Aug 2010 05:30 AM PDT

You won’t be able to cut this knot unlike cutting the Gordian Knot, but you might be tempted to take a hammer and smash it into smithereens. We’re talking about the Zig Zag Knot Puzzle that requires one 37-move sequence to unlock the knot – which means you won’t be able to find a different method unlike other puzzle games that has more than one way to arrive at a particular solution. Perfect for one to hone their pattern recognition, abstract thinking and problem solving skills. At $9.99 a pop, it might be the perfect tool if you want to break the ice among your new friends and colleagues, as it helps the quieter ones focus on something else apart from just trying to think of a particular topic to talk about. Needless to say, untangling this knot is a solo activity, making it perfect for the more reserved reaers out there. Nice to know that each purchase comes with the full 37-move sequence solution as well as full instructions to put it back together (which is actually a reverse of the solution, but you knew that already, didn’t you?).

Coolest Gadgets UK – For all your UK centric tech and gadget news.
[ Zig Zag Knot Puzzle copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]

Gadget Thumbnails for 03-Aug-2010

Posted: 03 Aug 2010 10:01 PM PDT

Introducing Foolish Gadgets because not all gadgets are cool

[ Gadget Thumbnails for 03-Aug-2010 copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]

Gadget Thumbnails for 03-Aug-2010

Posted: 03 Aug 2010 10:01 PM PDT

Cool Gift Idea: Digital Picture Frames, check out our reviews.
[ Gadget Thumbnails for 03-Aug-2010 copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]

Rubik’s Slide Puzzle

Posted: 04 Aug 2010 05:00 AM PDT

Another puzzle game to keep you occupied – we’re talking about the Rubik’s Slide Puzzle from Firebox. This will take a classic and literally place a twist to it, where practising your brain costs just £19.99. This ingenious new brainteaser might just be as addictive as the original Rubik’s Cube, where it packs more than 10,000 puzzles which can be played freestyle or against the clock if you’re looking for more challenge in your life. You can ’slide’ the lights into the correct position, with the option to ‘twist’ lights into the correct position as well. A single face of backlit tiles dominate this puzzle, where you are supposed to rearrange them into various patterns that are displayed at the start of each unique challenge. We wonder whether you will get a case of Rubik’s thumb if you spend more than enough time on this.

Cool Gift Idea: Digital Picture Frames, check out our reviews.
[ Rubik’s Slide Puzzle copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]

Panasonic has new HDC-SDX1 camcorder

Posted: 03 Aug 2010 08:17 PM PDT

Panasonic intends to achieve new records with their spanking new HDC-SDX1 camcorder, which is currently the world’s lightest full-High Definition (HD) camcorder. In order to make sure it picks up that title, it will come with an ultra-compact body that tips the scales at just less than 0.41 lbs. Apart from its stylish and lightweight design, the new Panasonic SDX1 will also sport a 35.8mm wide-angle lens, 23x Intelligent Zoom as well as the ability to double up as a webcam which allows you to use it for Internet video calls. Want to know more about this seeming wonder? Head on to the full post for the nitty gritty.

Apart from capturing down all your precious moments for posterity in full High Definition, the SDX1 also functions as a webcam with is microphone not missing out on a single sound or word from your side. This is made possible by hooking up the SDX1 to a computer, letting you enjoy face-to-face communication in a jiffy. For those who use Apple computers, fret not as Panasonic’s got your back. The SDX1 will support the Apple iFrame video format for smooth and easy loading and editing of image data on a native Mac machine. You can also upload video clips to YouTube or Facebook directly without the need to launch a browser. How’s that for convenience?

The Panasonic HDC-SDX1 is no slouch when it comes to performance either, thanks to a newly-developed HYBRID Optical Image Stabilization system (O.I.S.), an image stabilization system which will deliver optical and electrical hand-shake correction. The system will also help you out when zooming in on a subject, resulting in beautiful videos that you never imagined before. With the O.I.S. Lock button on the LCD monitor pressed, the blur detection sensitivity will kick in at maximum, correcting all camera movements in the process. Thanks to its Intelligent Auto (iA) mode, the SDX1 will be able to choose the most suitable of six shooting modes automatically with but a simple button press. Out in September later this year, the HDC-SDX1 will retail for $499.95.

Press Release

Check out the Coolest Gadgets 2008 Gift Guides, Christmas shopping made easy.
[ Panasonic has new HDC-SDX1 camcorder copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]

Logitech Alert HD digital video security system

Posted: 03 Aug 2010 07:51 PM PDT

Just when you thought that all Logitech offered was a great range of computer mice that caters to every single market segment, universal remote controls that look super futuristic, speakers that offer bang for your hard-earned buck and a vast array of webcams, think again. The Swiss company has just unveiled a spanking new Logitech Alert HD digital video security system which lets you keep an eagle eye on what matters most to you. It doesn’t matter if you use it for checking in on the house when you’re away from it, making sure baby is all right from work or monitoring your second home (investment as some call it), the Logitech Alert 750i Master System is up to the task, and will work great alongside the weatherproof Logitech Alert 750e Outdoor Master System with night-vision. Both Logitech Alert master systems will be equipped with a smart HD camera, powerful PC and Web software, giving you the ability to view what’s going on remotely on a PC or Mac, and if you’re mobile, over a compatible smartphone.

To make sure that both systems remain future proof (and if you happen to buy over your neighbor’s house simply to expand your own land), then you will be pleased to know that Logitech has just the solution for you – we’re talking about the Logitech Alert 700i Add-On Camera and the Logitech Alert 700e Outdoor Add-On Camera. Not only that, folks who are frequently away from home can take advantage of the Logitech Alert Web and Mobile Commander, which is actually an optional premium service that lets you watch video that is recorded and stored on your camera, while managing settings and alerts from the Web or your smartphone.

It doesn’t require a degree in rocket science to set up the Logitech Alert security system, taking just minutes of your life via a simple three-step process. First, you will need to install the Logitech Alert software, hook it up to your network, and plug in your camera, and you’re good to go. The Logitech Alert 750i Master System and the Logitech Alert 750e Outdoor Master System will retail for $299.99 and $349.99, respectively. If you want to expand on that, the Logitech Alert 700i Add-On Camera and the Logitech Alert 700e Outdoor Add-On Camera will be going for $229.99 and $279.99, respectively.

Press Release

Cool Gift Idea: Digital Picture Frames, check out our reviews.
[ Logitech Alert HD digital video security system copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]

BlackBerry 6 announced

Posted: 03 Aug 2010 07:41 PM PDT

What better way to introduce a new smartphone in the form of the BlackBerry Torch than to accompany it with a spanking new operating system as well? That’s what we’re talking about today with the BlackBerry 6 heading your way from Research in Motion. Boasting a redesigned interface which seamlessly works with a touch screen and trackpad, it will also throw in expanded messaging capabilities that simplify managing social media and RSS feeds. Apart from that, you will find your BlackBerry 6 powered device to double up as an advanced multimedia device as well, touted to rival the best in the industry. Since search is such a big thing these days, RIM also threw in a convenient new Universal Search tool, alongside a new and efficient WebKit-based browser which ensures your favorite web pages are rendered in a quick and beautiful manner.

It has taken a long time in coming, and BlackBerry 6 could very well up the ante in the smartphone market, helping slow down the super fast march of Android-powered smartphones alongside jostling for market share with the Apple iPhone and their iOS 4. One of the main advantages of the new operating system would be its visual, fluid interface compared to its predecessors. Being redesigned from ground up, it is by far easier and much more intuitive to use, featuring clean, sleek visuals and natural, fluid navigation. Despite that, it remains fresh and familiar at he same time, delivering a productive, fun and highly satisfying user experience whether using a touch screen or trackpad and keyboard.

Multiple views help you organize your applications and content in a better manner, where all icons are arranged on the Home Screen in 5 customizable views (All, Favorites, Media, Downloads and Frequent) which can then be navigated using simple swipes. You have full freedom to arrange where the icons should show up, while adding contacts or web page shortcuts directly to the Home Screen. With RIM's new Text Messages application, it will also introduce new features for users who communicate mostly via SMS and MMS, finally bringing threaded conversations from different streams to the platform. Apart from debuting on the BlackBerry Torch, it will also make its way to the BlackBerry Bold 9700, BlackBerry Bold 9650 and BlackBerry Pearl 3G in due time.

Press Release

Introducing Foolish Gadgets because not all gadgets are cool

[ BlackBerry 6 announced copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]

Samsung Electronics has new eco-friendly hard drive

Posted: 03 Aug 2010 07:31 PM PDT

Samsung Electronics does not only churn out great looking TVs and fantastic handset, you know. They are also knee deep in nearly the whole range of consumer electronics, and among these include a part of the computer that most people need – a hard drive. Today, they have just announced the F4EG, what is touted to be the world's highest-density, environmentally friendly hard disk drive that will see action in the desktop market. Also known as the EcoGreen F4, it comes with a 2-terabyte (TB) capacity, which equals to 667GB for each of its three disks. To get a better idea on just how that works out when it comes to real life files, that is roughly the equivalent of 880 hours of DVD video or 500,000 songs in MP3 format. Within the F4EG, it will utilize Samsung's high-density design technology in order to deliver better performance, low power and improved reliability to its 'EcoGreen' hard drives.

The F4EG is able to satisfy a wide range of market targets, including storage-hungry multimedia professionals to gamers and home PC users. After all, when it comes to computer storage, it is the same as money. You can never have enough, and just a little bit more is required to keep you happy. With the easy availability of digital content these days, it can become way too easy to hoard data as well as video and audio content in a way never imagined before, simply because space is so abundant, and it is pretty cheap to boot when you take into consideration the hard drive’s cost per GB ratio compared to other much more expensive alternatives like an SSD.

Thanks to a trio of its disks and advanced technology, the F4EG drive will be 19% better in standby time performance and has 23% lower power consumption in standby mode compared to its predecessor which is the four-disk model known as the F3EG. It also won’t wake up the dead at night thanks to its low noise operation technology SilentSeek and NoiseGuard that offers quiet system operation. OK, so hard drives aren’t the noisiest things in the world, but the slight clatter you hear after a while might just get on other people’s nerves, especially when you’re working in bed late into the night and your partner is extremely sensitive to noise. Out in 1.5TB and 2TB capacities, the Samsung F4EG will deliver a 3.0Gbps SATA interface and retail from $119.99 upwards with the first shipments happening this September.

Press Release

Check out the Coolest Gadgets 2008 Gift Guides, Christmas shopping made easy.
[ Samsung Electronics has new eco-friendly hard drive copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]

Thursday, August 5, 2010