Saturday, January 30, 2010

Latest Posts on Coolest Gadgets

Latest Posts on Coolest Gadgets


Hands on with the Pogoplug

Posted: 29 Jan 2010 03:42 PM PST

sideimage_plug_1.0The last time we reported on the Pogoplug, it was when it made its initial first appearance at CES 2009. I’m guessing that it probably had some appearance at CES 2010, and if you compare the pictures from our previous posting, you can see that the Pogoplog has evolved, appearance-wise.

In case you don’t know, the Pogoplug is a device that allows its users to share content from a hard drive all across the Internet. Like the slogan says, it is “your personal cloud”.

The company was generous enough to supply me one to review. When I opened the box, I could not find any written instructions that tell me what to plug into what. There was a little paper that told me what site to go to, and this is where I learned to set up the hardware.

Set up was as easy as plugging the Pogoplug into the wall, and then plugging in into my router. The unit had four USB ports to plug in any hard drive. I decided to try using a simple thumb drive.

The set up didn’t take very long, and in no time at all, I was told I could go to the my.pogoplug.com site, use my password, and I would have access to that thumb drive. I thought it was too easy, so I went to use my wife’s computer in the other room, and viola, and I was able, with just the Internet alone, to access everything on that aforementioned thumb drive.

In short, the Pogoplug is a pretty amazing device, and only costs about $129 with no monthly subscription or set up fees. You can get one off the Pogoplug site.


Coolest Gadgets UK – For all your UK centric tech and gadget news.
[ Hands on with the Pogoplug copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]


Clear Classic USB Joystick gives that retro feel

Posted: 29 Jan 2010 03:30 PM PST

6a00d83452989a69e20120a81f5cfb970b-800wi

Classic games just aren’t the same if you play them using a keyboard.  You just can’t get the same feel.  Well with this controller you could get more of that retro feel while still using your updated technology.  I’ve also heard that the retro games don’t look as good on our pretty flat screen monitors, but I’m afraid this controller won’t help with that part. Bottom line is, you’ll have to make a small compromise.

The nice thing with this is that you could enjoy using this controller even with new games.  With its clear look and blue LED light, it feels classic, but looks new.  The controller also comes with a few games for you to enjoy such as Pacman 4K, Seawolf, Invaders Plus and others.  In full it includes over 80 different games.  If that’s not enough for you the seller also have some suggestions as to where you can find more.  It comes with a 5 foot long USB cable.  You can purchase the joystick for $29.95 through Reflex Audio.

Source: RetroThing


Check out the Coolest Gadgets 2008 Gift Guides, Christmas shopping made easy.
[ Clear Classic USB Joystick gives that retro feel copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]


From paper shreds to toilet paper

Posted: 29 Jan 2010 03:10 PM PST

toiletpaper_machineNow this is a machine that I just had to report about. A company known as Oriental (yes, it is an Asian company) has created a machine that is very appropriate for offices called the White Goat.

Yes, I would have gave it a nicer name, but honestly, White Goat is probably the most descriptive name for a machine that can turn shredded paper into toilet paper.

I am being completely serious here. All you need to do is feed the machine 40 sheets of AR office paper, and let the machine do its work of shredding, dissolving the strips in water, thinning it out, and then drying it out and winding it into the rolls.

In just thirty minutes, your office TPS reports are a roll of TP, without the tube in the middle. There is a video after the jump if you would like to see it for yourself, and I highly recommend that you do.

It only costs eleven cents to make a roll, and regular use of this easy-to-install machine can save you up to 60 cedar trees per year.

Of course, you have to ask yourself if the price is worth it. Right now, this machine weighs 600 kg and is 1.8 meters tall. So not only does it take up a lot of space, but it costs a lot of money at $100,000.

Source



Tech Cult – We cover the latest tech news, but always with a funny twist.
[ From paper shreds to toilet paper copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]


Cocoon Shower would make any bathroom cool

Posted: 29 Jan 2010 02:22 PM PST

500x_cocoon-showerI suppose that what I’m seeing here is a shower of the future, but most modern-day showers are designed for a small space. This “cocoon shower” definitely belongs in a bathroom where there is space to spare.

Actually, this shower is more than just a shower, as you might not be able to tell from this picture. Apparently, the base of this cocoon shower is wide enough to be a cocoon bathtub, and not just any bathtub, but a hydro-massager.

Another thing that might be unclear in this picture is the “shower curtain” on this thing. It opens up somewhat like a flower, and the curtain slides all around the structure itself.

I believe that my source mentions that it resembles Darth Vader’s meditation chamber from The Empire Strikes Back, and I can’t help but agree with it, if it were painted black. Maybe this is where the stormtroopers went to meditate, this is assuming that clones can meditate.

This Cocoon tub is still just a concept tub designed by Arina Komarova, and it is not up for sale as yet. However, I would like to think that articles like this help to make beautiful dreams like this into reality. So if you want this cocoon shower, then you got to speak as one voice until you get it.

Source


Introducing Foolish Gadgets because not all gadgets are cool :)
[ Cocoon Shower would make any bathroom cool copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]


Wooden Heart-Shaped SpeakWood Speaker

Posted: 29 Jan 2010 02:00 PM PST

woodheart

Valentine’s Day comes around every single year and it always seems to draw out the heart-shaped gadgets from the darkest corners of the world.  Here’s another one, but at least it’s not pink.  Instead it comes in a soft natural shade.  These speakers will sweetly play all of your favorite songs.  Despite the Valentine’s Day look these will blend in just fine all year round.

The power output is 2.5W and the consumption is 3W.  The heart is completely made out of wood and then jammed with all of the electronic goodies that’ll make your music play.  It’s powered by a USB port and has a 3.5mm audio plug.  You can purchase the SpeakWood Heart USB Speaker for $22 through Gadget4all.  Which makes it a fairly affordable gift to give a loved one.

Source: GeekAlerts


Check out the Coolest Gadgets 2008 Gift Guides, Christmas shopping made easy.
[ Wooden Heart-Shaped SpeakWood Speaker copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]


Cocoon jumps aboard the iPad accessory bandwagon

Posted: 29 Jan 2010 01:43 PM PST

cocoon

We know that the Apple iPad was announced just a couple of days ago, but third party accessory manufacturers have already started churning out iPad compatible items in the form of protective cases and sleeves, with Belkin being just one of them to be out of the stable doors first. Today, we shall take a closer look at what Cocoon Innovations can offer in the form of The Gramercy. The Gramercy is a sleek, messenger sling which is capable of offering the perfect solution for organizing and securing your very own Apple iPad when you get hold of the Wi-Fi only version a couple of months from now. Thid messenger sling will come with its own windowed media pocket that allows you to stash away other gizmos (preferably Apple branded ones to show the whole world what a fan of Cupertino you are), including smartphones and MP3 players. What’s more, it will come with the acclaimed GRID-IT system which ought to come in handy for the storage and organization of all your daily essentials. What is GRID-IT, you ask? That’s a patent-pending organization system that comprises of a special weave of rubberized elastic bands which double up as an object retention system, helping to ensure all your devices, personal items and accessories will remain in place during travel.

Why The Gramercy? Well, it was named after one of New York City’s trendiest neighborhoods, and aims to live up to its name by offering unmatched style as well as function in this new era of the digital age. The vertically designed Gramercy is also lightweight and compact, letting you sling it around your shoulder without suffering from any strain after a while thanks to its comfortable and adjustable shoulder strap. You will also be able to access its windowed front pocket in a snap, providing touch screen usage and operation despite having the device stashed away behind it safe and sound. As for its pocket, it will be compatible with the iPhone, iPod touch and other devices.

You can choose from three bright and stylish colors – Black with Burst Yellow interior, Gun Gray with Orange interior and Racing Red with Java Brown interior. The Gramercy will be available from April onwards for $29.99 a pop.

Press Release


Check out the Coolest Gadgets 2008 Gift Guides, Christmas shopping made easy.
[ Cocoon jumps aboard the iPad accessory bandwagon copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]


Razer Vespula gaming grade mouse mat makes its mark

Posted: 29 Jan 2010 01:23 PM PST

razer-vespula

When you mention the name Razer, most of the time a sort of serpentine-like name associated with one of their mean looking mice would pop up in our heads. Well, this time round the company takes a slightly different route albeit still maintaining its focus on the gaming scene by introducing the Razer Vespula gaming grade mouse mat. What makes the Vespula so different from the rest? After all, aren’t today’s mice more than adequately equipped to be able to handle just about any surface (save for glass) when it comes to tracking your movement in order to deliver that precise kill? Apparently not, and nothing quite beats the presence of a gaming grade mouse mat to make sure that you have no more excuses left concerning hardware and the gaming environment if you fail to perform that particular day.

The Razer Vespula is a lightweight, gaming grade mouse mat which boasts a dual-sided design. This is something special since the dual-sided design will be able to open up a new window of gaming style, where you can choose from Speed Surface for faster mouse movements or a Control Surface that picks up even the most precise of mouse movements. Are you a constant face at extended gaming sessions? The Razer Vespula could prove to be your trusted ally then, boasting a gel-filled memory conformance wrist rest that is perfect for top performance without suffering from the side effects of fatigue and strain, while it shares the same sturdiness and souped up durability of its predecessor – the Razer Exact Mat.

According to Robert "Razerguy" Krakoff, president, Razer USA, "The Razer Vespula was designed with gamers in mind that need a single solution for every game they play. Different genres call for different gameplays. The advanced technology in the improved dual-sided mouse mat gives gamers the choice of a smooth Speed Surface or a textured Control Surface, which delivers just that flexibility. The Control Surface is great for gamers that use small, precise movements, while the Speed Surface is an ideal match for gamers that prefer large, sweeping motions."

Expect the Razer Vespula to retail for either $34.99 or €34.99, depending on which continent you’re gaming on.

Press Release


Introducing Foolish Gadgets because not all gadgets are cool :)
[ Razer Vespula gaming grade mouse mat makes its mark copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]


USB Rechargeable LED Book Light

Posted: 29 Jan 2010 01:18 PM PST

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I have a thing for book lights, but if I were being truthful I don’t really use mine a lot.  It just runs out of batteries and I forget to put in new ones.  Plus you’re only going to use it when you need a small light that isn’t going to disturb someone.  Although that does happen, it still only works when you’re reading a book.  This USB light will end up getting used a bit more than a normal book light.  It comes with a dock that’ll allow for you to use it as a normal lamp.

If this light were bright enough it’d make it easier to work while you’re at your computer.  Which is convenient since you’ll need to hook this to your computer to give it the charge it requires.  That or you could find an adapter that would allow for this to just plug into the wall.  The device only charges when it’s plugged into the little green dock and it doubles conveniently as a stand.  You can purchase one of these lights for $28 through the MoMA Store.

Source: BLTD


Cool Gift Idea: Digital Picture Frames, check out our reviews.
[ USB Rechargeable LED Book Light copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]


Sound reactive nightgown

Posted: 29 Jan 2010 09:45 AM PST

sound-reactive-nightgownThere is nothing quite like the feeling of being in love, and a couple who are head over heels with each other often do not pay any attention to what is going on around , whispeing sweet nothings to each other and perhaps leading to a sizzling, romantic banter. The Sound Reactive Nightgown from designer Sarah Soriano aims spice things up in a couple, where it will start pulling up its hemline automatically as you begin a verbal intercourse with your lady friend. This is made possible thanks to the use of Lilypad Arduino and Flexinol – a shape memory alloy not quite in the vein of the T-1000, but good enough to raise a few eyebrows (and a skirt).

Source: Born Rich


Check out the Coolest Gadgets 2008 Gift Guides, Christmas shopping made easy.
[ Sound reactive nightgown copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]


JakPak could be the essential camping tool

Posted: 29 Jan 2010 09:38 AM PST

jakpakLove the great outdoors? Then you will probably find the JakPak to be a potentially essential piece of camping gear, as it brings three functions in a single form factor. The JakPak has your back covered when it comes to shelter, sleep and clothing, where it can transform into a sleeping bag and a jacket when the situation calls for it. Apart from that, you will also be happy to know that the JakPak is made from waterproof fabric which is coated with urethane, helping make it lightweight and durable. The use of Velcro-secured chambers enables the JakPak jacket to switch modes and transform into a shelter. No word on pricing, but it ought to hit the market sometime this March.

Source: Travelizmo


Introducing Foolish Gadgets because not all gadgets are cool :)
[ JakPak could be the essential camping tool copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]


Gadget Thumbnails for 28-Jan-2010

Posted: 28 Jan 2010 09:01 PM PST

Eco-friendly Calorie Cycle Speedometer

Posted: 28 Jan 2010 08:47 PM PST

eco-speedometer

Check out this Eco-friendly Calorie Cycle Speedometer which allows you to measure everywhere you go when you’re on your bicycle. It is capable of notching down important details such as the speed, distance, trip time, wheel rotation frequency as well as the number of calories burnt, helping you hit your physical fitness goals much faster than expected. It comes with a built-in clock that displays the time in both 12- and 24-hour formats, depending on which you are more comfortable with. There are just three buttons to toggle with – Set, Mode and Reset, alongside a night light for those who prefer working out when dusk falls. This $19.69 device can be powered by a single 3V CR2032 battery, or via solar power if you are one who rises early.


Cool Gift Idea: Digital Picture Frames, check out our reviews.
[ Eco-friendly Calorie Cycle Speedometer copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]


Style Your Garage

Posted: 28 Jan 2010 08:37 PM PST

style-your-garage

Take a look at your garage door – most of the time it comes in a boring monotone color, although sometimes you will have vandals leaving their “signature” artwork on it which ain’t too shabby either, especially if they’re proficient with the spray can. style-your-garage.com opens up a world of possibilities, where you can now adorn it with photo tarpaulins, where they come in a couple of sizes to choose from – 2.45m x 2.10m as well as a larger 2.75m x 2.45m. These photo tarpaulins are printed-on 3D motifs which look extremely realistic, and they are bound to stop traffic. We wonder whether getting one that features the insides of a garage will have you driving into the garage door by accident when your guard is down.


Cool Gift Idea: Digital Picture Frames, check out our reviews.
[ Style Your Garage copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]


Belkin rolls out new sleeves for the Apple iPad

Posted: 28 Jan 2010 08:32 PM PST

grip-sleeve

Belkin is betting that Apple’s latest iPad device will sell millions upon millions, but we don’t think it will ever hit the 250 million mark that the iPod family has arrived at over the years, unless the iPad comes down in price drastically. As with any other Apple device, it comes with a delectable design, although some of us are already grumbling about the extra fat bezel of the iPad which was incorporated so that you won’t accidentally touch the screen when moving it around unlocked. Most importantly, we ought to keep the screen in a pristine condition, as reading on a scratched and smudged display isn’t exactly the preferred option. Belkin answers this clarion call with three new sleeves in the form of the Vue, Max and Grip (as seen above). More on each of them right after the jump.

First off, we have the Vue Sleeve that retails for $39.99, where it comes with a transparent expandable pocket which is capable of stashing another media device as well as relevant accessories, ranging from smartphones to a digital camera, a pair of earbuds and a charger. It is made out of durable neoprene alongside reinforced panels for that added strength, while a soft quilted inner lining helps keep your touchscreen display in perfect condition. It will come in black and plum colors, boasting embossed patterns to express your style.

As for the Max Sleeve, this similarly priced case has a pleated design which can expand to fit accessories (preferably Apple ones) like an iPhone, a digital camera or a power supply. It is also made out of durable neoprene and features reinforced panels and a similar soft quilted inner lining to protect the touchscreen from scratches. When not in use, it will collapse flat for easy storage, and its compact design enables you to fit it nicely into a larger bag. As with the Vue Sleeve, this one also comes in black and perfect plum colors.

Last but not least would be the Grip Sleeve, which is the cheapest of the lot at $29.99. You get a gripable surface which increases your holding power while you’re on-the-go, making it perfect for those who suffer from clammy hands due to sweat. As with the previous two, this too, will come with a durable neoprene and silicone, reinforced panels and soft inner lining to protect the touchscreen display. You can also augment your iPad with a $19.99 screen overlay for added protection.

All three will arrive later this Spring, presumably when the iPad rolls out.

Press Release


Coolest Gadgets UK – For all your UK centric tech and gadget news.
[ Belkin rolls out new sleeves for the Apple iPad copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]


Jenn-Air oven has touchscreen LCD display

Posted: 28 Jan 2010 03:52 PM PST

JJW3830WP_lg_270x454It isn’t very often that I cover ovens on Coolest Gadgets, but it isn’t every oven that has a 7-inch full-color touchscreen LCD.

This 30 inch Double Wall Oven with V2 Vertical Dual-Fan Convection System by Jenn-Air has an incorporated cooking guide to help those cooking.

This Culinary Center allows the user to select options for adjusting the cooking cycle, and delivers a desired end-result. For example, it has a picture of what medium rare looks like, for the culinary deficient. It can also tell cooks where to stick the a meat thermometer.

When the oven is not cooking, the user can adjust the screens so they are showing something like a floral pattern, or an analog or digital clock.

The touchscreen makes it easy for the iGeneration to cook as the user can adjust temperature by just sliding their finger across the screen. No more of those old school dials or switches. In fact, I can see all ovens of the future adopting Jenn-Air’s model, making switches and buttons a thing of the past.

I don’t see a price of this oven on the Jenn-Air website, but I’m guessing it is slightly out of my range. In all honesty, I don’t even need two ovens. Clearly these Jenn-Air ovens are there for both Julie and Julia.

Source


Coolest Gadgets UK – For all your UK centric tech and gadget news.
[ Jenn-Air oven has touchscreen LCD display copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]