Latest Posts on Coolest Gadgets

Bed of Nails Relaxation Mat
Hello Kitty Monopoly
Sony S-Frame digital photo frames announced
Sony has new line of Digital Readers
Belkin iPod GoStudio Recorder is so petite
Virtual Mirror for augmented reality cosmetics
X-Frame folding vehicle
Hello Kitty iPod Dock
Power Laces, as seen in Back to the Future II
Toshiba claims the mantel of world’s fastest SD card
Gadget Thumbnails for 01-Sep-2010
Frosting Deco Pen

Posted: 02 Sep 2010 05:15 PM PDT

Want to be some sort of mystic practitioner? Then get the Bed of Nails Relaxation Mat which supposedly helps you release inner tension while lower stress levels and hitting a sense of high in your personal well-being. Wait a minute, you say, aren’t nails really sharp and painful to lie on? Not really, it is in fact, completely painless and is touted to offer virtues in aiding relaxation, relieving you of your back and muscle pain while increasing energy levels. Oh yeah, good thing the mat itself is made out of styrofoam and plastic instead of the old school wood and iron nails. There are two versions available, one with a neck-only pillow and one without, retailing for £19.99 and £39.99, respectively. You will probably feel a strange sensation for the first few minutes, but once you’ve gotten used to it, chances are you would want to lie down longer than initially thought.

Tech Cult – We cover the latest tech news, but always with a funny twist.
[ Bed of Nails Relaxation Mat copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]

Hello Kitty Monopoly

Posted: 02 Sep 2010 05:00 PM PDT

Just when you thought that there are no more iterations of the classic Monopoly game, along comes the Hello Kitty Monopoly that will star the irritatingly cute Hello Kitty and friends, featuring 22 properties from Hello Kitty’s hometown of London. Strange, we always thought that she originated from Japan, but guess that she can be whoever she wants to be, being a global superstar diva and all that. As usual, you can opt to enjoy the game in the traditional Monopoly way, or use the 60-minute speed play option instead. At $39.99 a pop, we’re guessimg that only hardcore Monopoly players/collectors won’t mind having a go – of course, don’t rule out Hello Kitty fans either, but most of the other ordinary folk out there will probably give this a miss considering how Monopoly is still Monopoly regardless of the “skin” you see on the outside. Since this is a custom edition Monopoly, nearly every element of the game has been redesigned, ranging from Properties to Money, Houses, Hotels, Community Chest, Chance, Utilities, Railroads and Tokens.

Coolest Gadgets UK – For all your UK centric tech and gadget news.
[ Hello Kitty Monopoly copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]

Sony S-Frame digital photo frames announced

Posted: 02 Sep 2010 04:49 PM PDT

Have you built up an impressive collection of digital photographs that you’re extremely proud of, and would love to show it to family and friends? Well, instead of wasting ink and printing it out on plenty of photo paper, why not just show them off via a digital photo frame? If you’ve answered in the affirmative, then Sony’s got your back with their new line of S-Frame digital photo frames that comprise of the DPF-XR100, DPF-VR100 and DPF-D830 models, helping consumers keep their favorite memories close with innovative, high-quality features such as video playback and battery operated capabilities.

The DPF-XR100 and DPF-VR100 models will come with AVCHD video playback capabilities, which basically enables you to view detailed, realistic video with vivid colors and contrast straight off either units’ high-resolution WSVGA LED backlight LCD screen. As for the DPF-D830, this one is more unique since it is touted to be the firstbattery operated digital photo frame from Sony that makes it a whole lot more portable within the home, considering you won’t need to hook it up to a power outlet at all times. Of course, battery life is a concern since its built-in battery can last up to just 100 minutes based on photo viewing only, but at least it is a whole lot more portable than its predecessors. Featuring an 8-inch display and 2GB of internal memory, you won’t have any complaints about its SVGA LED backlight LCD display, that’s for sure.

As for the high-end XR100 and VR100 models, you can enjoy your favorite HD videos sans a HDTV – just plug in a media card that has AVCHD video on it and you’re good to go. They are equipped with a 10.2-inch diagonal high-resolution WSVGA LED backlight LCD screen that is more than capable of delivering quality results, while an advanced image processor within the frames scales and displays content up to 256 megapixels. Not only that, you will get stereo audio for a more immersize experience, while a convenient alarm mode and Sweep Panorama playback round off the list of features. Both models will come with 2GB of internal memory as well to get you started.

Press Release

Tech Cult – We cover the latest tech news, but always with a funny twist.
[ Sony S-Frame digital photo frames announced copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]

Sony has new line of Digital Readers

Posted: 02 Sep 2010 04:41 PM PDT

Sony knows that the ebook market is here to stay, which is why the company has rolled out new Digital Readers to the masses recently, where the models would include the new Reader Pocket Edition, Reader Touch Edition and, in only the US for the moment, the wireless Reader Daily Edition. All three of them will be chock full of the latest technology and design enhancements which makes them ideal for just about any reader’s lifestyle. Expect aluminum to be the in thing where construction material is concerned for gizmos these days, as the new Reader models will boast elegant aluminum designs and all new, highly responsive touch screens. Not only that, Sony will also back up hardware with software, having announced development of a set of applications for iPhone and the Android Marketplace which will be able to extend the Readers experience via a variety of portable devices.

Each generation ought to see improvement, which is why Sony has reduced the size and weight in this restyle. All three models will now come with improved, optical touch screen technology that was specially designed for digital reading. This new first-to-market technology will help enhance the ease of use and increases reading clarity, enveloping the reader in an immersive reading experience. All it takes is the lightest swipe of a finger or stylus pen to jump into the world of the author’s fantasy and imagination. Apart from that, the three models will use E Ink Pearl electronic paper displays that are capable of duplicating a paper-like display which can be read comfortably even under direct sunlight. The screens deliver a high contrast ratio with 16 levels of grayscale, where all text and images remain crisp and easy to read.

The Reader Pocket Edition will come with a five-inch, full touch screen in silver and pink colors, aided by 2GB internal memory and wil retail for $179. As for the Reader Touch Edition, this 6-inch device will also have 2GB of internal memory that can be further augmented via dual expansion slots for up to 32GB of additional memory, while doubling up as a portable audio player with MP3 and AAC playback capability. It will retail for $229 and will come in black or red colors. Last but not least would be the Reader Daily Edition which will feature Wi-Fi connectivity to Sony’s Reader Store, 2 GB of internal memory and expansion slots, all going for $299 in a silver shade.

Press Release

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[ Sony has new line of Digital Readers copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]

Belkin iPod GoStudio Recorder is so petite

Posted: 02 Sep 2010 03:33 PM PDT

I had thought that the trend with gadgets was to keep making them smaller and smaller, no matter how easy it makes them to lose. Sure, this will make it so that you can record things directly to your iPod, but it’s twice the size of a normal tape recorder. Something has just gone horribly backwards here. I know, it offers all sorts of features, but as a fan of the sleek and portable it’s hard to get past the size. Then again maybe you’ll be happy to have a gadget again that has some meat on its bones.

This records directly to your iPod in 16 bit, 44kHz digital audio quality. It has 2 built-in microphones and 2 combo microphone inputs. It also has the obvious built-in speaker that’ll let you play back what you’ve just recorded. The Belkin GoStudio was designed for podcasters, journalists, teachers, students and anyone else that might still be using a sleek and barely noticeable, yet horribly outdated tape recorder. Shame on you for carrying around that outdated tech. Sure it’s smaller and looks better, but you just can’t do that! You should immediately get rid of it and invest $109.06 at Amazon for one of these, because it’s shiny…. and new.

Source: GadgetGrid

Coolest Gadgets UK – For all your UK centric tech and gadget news.
[ Belkin iPod GoStudio Recorder is so petite copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]

Virtual Mirror for augmented reality cosmetics

Posted: 02 Sep 2010 02:58 PM PDT

We have reported on a lot of interesting tech that begins with the mirror, such as the interactive Magic Mirror. This system called EZFace uses both mirrors and augmented reality technology.

EZFace is powered by IBM technology. Simply put, EZFace allows customers to see what makeup looks like, without having to try it on for themselves.

It begins when a customer has their picture taken in a virtual mirror, which looks like nothing more than an ordinary webcam. The customer can then scan the barcode of the specific make-up product such as foundation, mascara, and eye shadow. The program takes into account the user’s eye color, skin tone, and lighting to make an image of what the product might look when put on the face.

No more having product samplers in front of a mirror. Granted, that is probably the best way to see if make-up really works, and I don’t know what kind of margin for error this program has. After all, the program might make the cosmetics look better than they actually do. The proof, as they say, is in the pudding.

Still, it is a step in the right direction for digital makeovers. EZFace is currently working on expanding this idea for hair. So now you can see what the style is going to look like before it is on your head for the next month or so.

Source

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[ Virtual Mirror for augmented reality cosmetics copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]

X-Frame folding vehicle

Posted: 02 Sep 2010 02:38 PM PDT

Some of you might remember the end of the Jetsons title sequence. After George dropped off his family, he went to work and his flying car folded up into a briefcase.

There’s some technology that would save us a lot of parking space, wouldn’t it? Unfortunately, this X-Frame folding vehicle is not at that level, but it does have some of the folding thing down.

I couldn’t find a good picture of the X-Frame completely folded, but if you look closely on the photo of the X-Frame on display, you can see smaller pictures of what it looks like when it is folded. It certainly takes up a lot less space width-wise than your regular automobile. For those who are looking for more room in the garage, this is probably the way to go.

The vehicle is also eco-friendly as it has an electric battery in the rear wheel. The X-Frame appeared at the Good Design Expo of 2010, and it has the potential to replace the motorcycle as far as free-wheeling transportation goes.

This was developed by researchers at the Nagoya Institute of Technology, there doesn’t seem to be any word as far as if this going to be mass-produced or anything.

Source

Check out the Coolest Gadgets 2008 Gift Guides, Christmas shopping made easy.
[ X-Frame folding vehicle copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]

Hello Kitty iPod Dock

Posted: 02 Sep 2010 02:24 PM PDT

I can’t say that I’ve ever quite understood the Hello Kitty trend. However, I am a big believer in companies offering several docks and speakers to fit a wide range of tastes. You shouldn’t be stuck with a plain black set of speakers if you’re a pink and white fanatic. Those of you that are into Hello Kitty or have a relative that is can pick up this dock for a not too bad price.

It comes in white as well as an all over pink version. This Japanese dock has surface mounting technology and lossless energy amplication technology. It offers 360-degree sound output that’ll keep it from sounding like a novelty speaker that you just picked up because it featured your favorite cat. It quite obviously features an iPod dock, but you can also plug other audio devices in through the stereo output. You can pick one of these up for 14,800 yen or about $175.

Source: Gizmodiva

Cool Gift Idea: Digital Picture Frames, check out our reviews.
[ Hello Kitty iPod Dock copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]

Power Laces, as seen in Back to the Future II

Posted: 02 Sep 2010 02:17 PM PDT

I think we all know that Back to the Future II has inspired much technology that is yet to become real by the year 2015. That was the year that Marty and Doc traveled to at the beginning of the film, for those that don’t remember it.

Granted, we are closer to a hoverboard than we were before, and someone is working on “Power Laces”. Hopefully, you remember the scene in the movie when Michael J. Fox is dressing in future attire and puts his feet into some Nikes. The shoes tied themselves, by tightening the laces automatically, and the Nike logo glowed. (Clearly some obvious product placement by Nike.)

The Power Laces trick was actually done with a motor that was behind the shoe itself. However, Blake Bevin is working on a way to make Power Laces a reality.

Her first “proof of concept” designs had and obvious motor in the back, which would not fly in the real world. You can see it in the picture with the shoe that looks like it has overdosed on 80’s pastel colors. Her latest design has the motor for the laces safely in the sole. You can see that design on the left, and it looks more like the shoe from the classic film.

You can support Blake by sending her some money, and you can get some Power Laces merchandise with high donations. You will also be sent info when the shoe goes up for sale.

Source

Coolest Gadgets UK – For all your UK centric tech and gadget news.
[ Power Laces, as seen in Back to the Future II copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]

Toshiba claims the mantel of world’s fastest SD card

Posted: 02 Sep 2010 01:56 PM PDT

Toshiba says their new SDHC cards are the fastest in the world.

Back in the golden age of ocean going travel, companies like Cunard, White Star and the like were involved in a travel style arms race, each vying for the fastest steam ship. And the winner was usually the one who travelled from London to New York in the fastest time (as signified by the Blue Riband Trophy). Well, tech companies are doing the same thing with SD cards, each vying for both the largest and fastest SD cards on the market. Toshiba is now claiming to have the fastest in the world … let’s take a look.

In today’s HD Video obsessed market, write speed is as important as storage size since cameras are writing tremendous amounts of digital data onto those SD cards. And Toshiba’s cards are claiming blazing read/write speeds of 95mbps and 80mbps respectively. Think about that for a minute. My first hard drive as 20 megabytes. This card can write four times that much EVERY SECOND. And with that kind of speed, videographers will also be able to enjoy faster transfer speeds once USB 3.0 is all the rage.

Look for them in sizes 8-32GB in SDHC and 4-16GB in microSDHC, all compliant to SD 3.0 standard and due out in December – just in time to make excellent stocking stuffers.

Hat Tip – The Giz

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[ Toshiba claims the mantel of world’s fastest SD card copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]

Gadget Thumbnails for 01-Sep-2010

Posted: 01 Sep 2010 10:01 PM PDT

Tech Cult – We cover the latest tech news, but always with a funny twist.
[ Gadget Thumbnails for 01-Sep-2010 copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]

Frosting Deco Pen

Posted: 02 Sep 2010 04:28 AM PDT

When you’re decorating something with icing you’re usually stuck with some squishy bag to write with, which just feels a little unnatural. If it feels unnatural, then your writing and decorations are not going to be nearly as pretty. Now you could get used to that squishy bag, but only if you do that sort of thing often. For those that don’t there is this Frosting Deco Pen.

There are all sorts of colored pens out there, but personally I think I’d choose a pen with frosting in it over the rest. The pen is battery powered and comes with 3 refillable frosting cartridges. Don’t worry, you can just use normal frosting from the store. The Swiss designed pen does cost a little more than your average pen, but it gets filled with frosting. That makes it far better. You can pick up the Kuhn Rikon Frosting Deco Pen for $30.

Source: OhGizmo

Tech Cult – We cover the latest tech news, but always with a funny twist.
[ Frosting Deco Pen copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]

Friday, September 3, 2010