Thursday, February 4, 2010

Latest Posts on Coolest Gadgets

Latest Posts on Coolest Gadgets


Richard Branson’s underwater plane, the Nymph

Posted: 03 Feb 2010 04:27 PM PST

Virgin-Necker-Nymph-thumb-550x360-33204You’ve got to admire Virgin CEO Richard Branson. Not only does he have that airline, and he is trying to get the space tourism industry going with that Spaceport America thing, and he now has an underwater plane.

At least, this is the name that my sources are calling, but I’m not certain that I would call this a plane. When I think plane, I think airplane, but my sources don’t say whether this thing can go in the air as well as under the water.

The Nymph can go between two to five nautical miles an hour, and can go 100 feet below the surface. While the wings might not be able to make the Nymph fly, it can go through the water for up to two hours.

Branson designed the underwater plane to take people to Necker Island. For those who don’t know, Necker Island is a small island in the British Virgin Islands owned by Branson himself. It is extreme luxury property which costs $300,000 to stay a week there. The underwater plane ride will add another $25,000 to the biill, but at least the rich tourists will see a 360-degree view underwater.

Well, Richard, if you’re reading this, I would love to take a ride on this plane, when it is completed. I like what you do with technology.

Source


Tech Cult – We cover the latest tech news, but always with a funny twist.
[ Richard Branson’s underwater plane, the Nymph copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]


DISPLAX: The touchscreen wallpaper of the future

Posted: 03 Feb 2010 03:52 PM PST

Displax_2I think that we all know that the future is full of Microsoft Surface technology, and I look forward to the day when every table or desk is a touchscreen.

DISPLAX, made by a Portuguese company, is prepared for an age where every tabletop, wall, or any large flat (or even curved) surface could be a touchscreen. DISPLAX is a thinner-than-paper polymer film that can be applied to glass, plastic, or wood and can detect up to 16 touches at once.

I don’t know about you, but I’m starting to think of some good uses already. In fact, my dream house will have DISPLAX as wall-paper in every room.

That way, any wall I want can be a television, and recipes can appear on the wall in my kitchen. I would imagine that I could check my email or social media sites from any room, including the bathroom.

Okay, I am going out of my head (in a good way) thinking about all the applications for DISPLAX. So much so, I can’t even think of a bad use for it. However, there is one thing I am a bit unclear on: how does one program this screen? I mean, is there a USB port to connect to a computer, or something?

This technology feels like it is made for an era that I will never see in my lifetime. I have heard that DISPLAX will start shipping as early as July.

Source


Check out the Coolest Gadgets 2008 Gift Guides, Christmas shopping made easy.
[ DISPLAX: The touchscreen wallpaper of the future copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]


Spray your dog up the nose with the Bark Deterring Spray Collar

Posted: 03 Feb 2010 03:30 PM PST

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If you’re tired of listening to your yappy dog, this collar will fix them.  Not in that shocking way that makes them twitch for a couple of hours.  No this one is nice enough it’ll give you a laugh and your pet loving significant other won’t scowl at you for being mean to the dog.  Instead of shocking them it sprays water right up their nose.  Well it’s nicer than the other way, no one said it was entirely nice.

It uses unscented water-based solution that’s hypoallergenic as well as ozone friendly.  I’m not entirely sure why they don’t just use water, but apparently they need to use a solution instead.  Probably so you’re forced to buy their unscented spray refills for $9.95 a piece.  That means if you have a particularly thick headed yappy dog you’re probably going to be shelling out that $10 on a regular basis.  The collar works with dogs 8lbs and up and is made of nylon.  In order to keep it powered it requires a 3V battery that’ll last up to 4 week.  You can purchase one for $49.95 through Hammacher Schlemmer.

Source: Crunchgear


Tech Cult – We cover the latest tech news, but always with a funny twist.
[ Spray your dog up the nose with the Bark Deterring Spray Collar copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]


Mushroom Lamp for grown up Mario addicts

Posted: 03 Feb 2010 02:20 PM PST

6a00d8341c5dea53ef0120a83377bf970b-800wi

Mushrooms have managed to becomes slightly famous.  In part due to..well..the drug version of course.  Then the type that you run into to make Mario grow.  Actually, they are both pretty similar.  This mushroom doesn’t look like a cheap plastic mushroom though, with this you can pretend to be chic and modern.  When in reality you just love it because of the hours you’ve spent chasing mushrooms just to make you a little taller.  Hopefully in virtual form only.  People look at you strange when you start chasing after mushrooms in the woods, because you think they’ll make you grow.

This pretty designer lamp comes in white as well as black.  Sorry no brightly colored ones with white polka dots.  This color makes it blend in with grown up décor, which eventually it’s probably best to make the switch towards.  You can purchase the lamp for $1,750 AUD or about $1,543 USD.  So you’re going to have to be a very well off Mario addict.

Source: Bookofjoe


Introducing Foolish Gadgets because not all gadgets are cool :)
[ Mushroom Lamp for grown up Mario addicts copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]


Chili Bed warms one side and cools the other

Posted: 03 Feb 2010 01:56 PM PST

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I have a serious reputation for being constantly frozen, which usually means the second anyone enters my house they’re burning alive.  That is unless I have thought ahead and turned down the thermostat to a normal person type of temperature.  For those of you that either live with someone who’s always warm or freezing this mattress will make sleeping a lot easier.  It’ll allow for one side to be heated all the while the other side is keeping the other person cool.

The mattress itself can be purchased in different sizes.  You can also choose dual or single zone pads.  The single zones come in Twin, Twin XL, Full and Queen.  The dual comes in Queen, King and California King.  The difference between the two types is one allows for two different temperatures on either side of the bed and then the single only allows for one.  The prices range from $399 to $499 for the single zones and $599 to $649 for the dual zones.

Source: NerdApproved


Tech Cult – We cover the latest tech news, but always with a funny twist.
[ Chili Bed warms one side and cools the other copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]


Fujifilm announces FinePix Z70 digital camera

Posted: 03 Feb 2010 05:30 AM PST

finepix-z70It is that time of the year again for companies to roll out digital cameras which sport a range of happy colors to commemorate spring, and Fujifilm leads the way with their FinePix Z70 digital camera. What makes this model so special, or rather, different compared to the rest in the market? Well, the FinePix Z70 has a social networking twist that ought to get fans of Facebook all excited and happy, where we will deal with it in the extended post. To continue with its introduction, the Fujifilm FinePix Z70 will succeed where the hugely popular FinePix Z35 left off, bringing to your palm the power of 12 megapixel resolution, a Fujinon 5x optical zoom, HD image capture as well as a new YouTube/Facebook easy web upload facility.

What, YouTube and Facebook upload facility, you say? Do you mean there is a built-in wireless chipset in the Z70 that is capable of connecting to any available Wi-Fi network and upload directly without the need for any computers? Sadly not, but at least it takes a step closer to that vision (assuming you don’t pop in an Eye-Fi Wi-Fi SD card, of course). You will need to hook up the FinePix Z70 to your computer via USB, where directly from the playback mode in your camera, you are able to select a photo or video to upload to FaceBook or YouTube. This means there are no longer any more lengthy, agonizing wait times compared to the early days, not to mention having to convert those images and videos beforehand.

Other features of the FinePix Z70 include a sophisticated metal body and a vertical sliding lens barrier, coming in a chassis that is a mere 17.9mm thin. You get LED illuminated keys that makes it easier to navigate in dark conditions, while capturing photos in 12-megapixels resolution is definitely a snap (no pun intended), where it can also shoot video in High Definition with the option to play it back over a HD ready television. No idea on pricing or availability as at press time.

Press Release


Cool Gift Idea: Digital Picture Frames, check out our reviews.
[ Fujifilm announces FinePix Z70 digital camera copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]


Sony Ericsson Aspen announced

Posted: 03 Feb 2010 05:00 AM PST

se-aspen

Sony Ericsson takes the high road with their latest cellphone to be announced which will be part of their GreenHeart portfolio – we’re talking abou the Sony Ericsson Aspen. Sounds like some sort of high end resort, doesn’t it? Well, this eco-minded smartphone will run on the much maligned Windows Mobile platform, but comes with an added twist – it has the latest Windows Mobile 6.5.3 version which brings a slew of improvements and updates – more on it later in the extended post, let us take a look at the hardware specifications first. The Sony Ericsson Aspen is positioned as a business smartphone with green credentials, boasting multi-tasking capability with a touch experience and QWERTY keyboard which is more than handy to get those text messages and emails sent out in double quick time. Apart from that, you can organize and adapt panels to change during the day while using Slide View for quick access to common features.

Viewing and editing office files is a snap thanks to its one touch operation, either that or you can always fall back on its navigation keys if you’re a sucker for something more traditional. The QWERTY keyboard supposedly allows fast and easy typing, while setting up your email account(s) is a painless affair for a portable maximized messaging experience. All your phone’s data can be secured thanks to the Microsoft MyPhone service which is capable of remotely erasing phone data when the handset is reported as lost or stolen. The latest version of Windows Mobile 6.5.3 will also see it being way more stable than its predecessors, speeding up proceedings while giving you a much more satisfactory user experience.

They say that all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy, which is why the Aspen balances the work aspect with some fun features such as a Media Browser and PlayNow functionality, offering quick access to social networks as well as your array of media files. a-GPS support is also built in to help you find your way around, while Google Maps ensure you won’t get lost in an unfamiliar place. It also comes with a 3.2-megapixel camera that can capture impromptu moments at decent quality, boasting a self-timer, smart contrast, multishot capability and a 4x digital zoom. No word on pricing, but the Sony Ericsson Aspen come in Iconic Black and White Silver colors in selected markets from Q2 onwards.

Press Release


Coolest Gadgets UK – For all your UK centric tech and gadget news.
[ Sony Ericsson Aspen announced copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]


Kandle LED Book Light

Posted: 03 Feb 2010 04:30 AM PST

kindle-kandleSeen the new iPad and don’t really think that it will ever be able to replace your beloved Kindle? Good news for you then, as those who love reading late into the night in their bed without wanting to wake their partner up with the lights on can always settle for the Kandle LED Book Light, where this model comes with a new WideLip grip that was specially designed for a variety of ebook readers including (but not limited to) the Amazon Kindle and Sony Reader.

The Kandle features a new patent pending design that attaches to eBooks and printed books without blocking the screen or page. The perfect accessory for any eBook, the Kandle is designed for the Amazon Kindle 1, 2, and DX, Sony Reader Digital Books, and other eBook Readers. The Kandle boasts double pivoting arms that allow for easy positioning and adjustment to tailor the screen illumination. The Main Pivoting Arm rotates 90 degrees from its closed position, and the Upper Pivoting Arm rotates another 70 degrees for complete customization. Unlike other eBook lights, the Kandle is powered by two lifetime x2 LEDs that are optimized to distribute light evenly without creating glare or eyestrain. The Kandle features a new patent pending design that attaches to eBooks and printed books without blocking the screen or page. The perfect accessory for any eBook, the Kandle is designed for the Amazon Kindle 1, 2, and DX, Sony Reader Digital Books, and other eBook Readers. Unlike other eBook lights, the Kandle is powered by two lifetime x2 LEDs that are optimized to distribute light evenly without creating glare, thereby minimizing eyestrain and screen hot spots. Petite and light, the Kandle is ultra portable and folds into a closed position where the LEDs are fully protected from scratches or breakage. Petite and light, the Kandle is ultra portable and folds into a closed position where the LEDs are fully protected from scratches or breakage. Ships with 2 CR2032 batteries included.

It is currently retailing for $25.00, making it a pretty decent gift for your starry-eyed, bookworm lover.


Check out the Coolest Gadgets 2008 Gift Guides, Christmas shopping made easy.
[ Kandle LED Book Light copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]


Heat Changing Arcade Mugs

Posted: 03 Feb 2010 04:00 AM PST

heat-changing-mugs

Love all those old, retro games from of yore? Heck, you would most probably be sitting at your now office desk, thinking about your heydays at the local arcade, holding on to the High Score in Pac Man till today. The joys (and pains) of growing up, eh? Why not relive those moments with the Heat Changing Arcade Mugs? After all, any decent office ought to have a well-stocked pantry that has a hot pot of coffee waiting for its employees always.

Normally the Pac Boy mug displays an empty maze and the Space Intruders mug displays a blank starry sky. But add some kind of hot beverage and instantly the Pac Boy maze is filled with 8-bit style ghosts and energizers while the Space Intruders shows a retro invaders style battle in action.

At $7.99 a pop, this would make for the perfect gift for any geek in the office (including yourself).


Check out the Coolest Gadgets 2008 Gift Guides, Christmas shopping made easy.
[ Heat Changing Arcade Mugs copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]


Gadget Thumbnails for 02-Feb-2010

Posted: 02 Feb 2010 09:01 PM PST

Drum Kit Keychain

Posted: 02 Feb 2010 07:03 PM PST

drumkit-keychainInstead of irritating others in a room by drumming an imaginary solo on the table with your fingers, why not use the Drum Kit Keychain instead? After all, it carries half a dozen playable drums with their own distinctive sound, making a whole lot more palatable and authentic to those around you. It would be nice if the device came with some sort of recording facility in order to record down all your thumb-tapping solos in their full glory to be shared with others. Apart from that, it makes for an interesting keychain, and nice to know that you get batteries included with each $7.99 purchase to get you drumming right out of the box.


Coolest Gadgets UK – For all your UK centric tech and gadget news.
[ Drum Kit Keychain copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]


USB X-Ray Reader

Posted: 02 Feb 2010 06:59 PM PST

usb-xray

Most of us who have gone to the doctor’s for some serious health check up some time or another might have undergone an X-Ray to check on our innards in greater detail. Well, what do we do with those X-Ray films when we get back? Do you just stash them away somewhere, only to pull it out for curious family members and friends to show off that lodged ping pong ball? Why not be more proactive with the USB X-Ray Reader? Yes, you read that right. This device is able to convert standard X-Rays into digital images thanks to its scanning process, and best of all is, it is portable since it is connected and powered via USB. Just make sure you have $145.69 in your bank account before making a purchase though.


Introducing Foolish Gadgets because not all gadgets are cool :)
[ USB X-Ray Reader copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]


Logitech Loud Enough Noise-Isolating Earphones

Posted: 02 Feb 2010 06:47 PM PST

logitech-earphones

Mention Logitech and most people would think that you are talking about its computer speakers which offer a whole lot of bang for your buck, or even of their famous range of computer mice. Well, today we won’t be touching on either, but will still have something to do with audio – the Loud Enough Noise-Isolating Earphones. Judging by its name, you can more or less tell that it has some sort of built-in mechanism that limits the loudness of whatever music you’re playing at that point in time. Well, it works that way, but will target a market niche that most manufacturers have missed – kids. After all, there is no better time to teach your little ones something than when they’re young and still malleable, right? Might as well use the Logitech Loud Enough Noise-Isolating Earphones to make sure that they don’t pick up the bad habit of cranking up the volume beyond reasonable listening levels just because it is “cool”, only to suffer from hearing problems many years down the road in their adult life.

Specially designed for kids, the Loud Enough earphones comes with integrated volume control which is capable of reducing the maximum volume of the original source by at least 30% when you compare it to ordinary ear buds. To have a more pictorial comparison, that is the difference between a chainsaw and a loud conversation. It works well with just about any audio playback supporting device that uses a 3.5mm audio port, encompassing a wide range of portable media players, DVD players, portable gaming devices and MP3 players. Thanks to the inclusion of three soft ear-cushions, it ought to be able to fit in most ears as you can choose from extra small to medium for a comfortable and safe listening experience.

Being compact and lightweight also goes some way in helping its case, where it has been specially constructed to handle day-to-day use, being able to live up to the antics of even the rowdiest bunch of kids. You will be able to choose from blueberry (blue), mint (green) or plum (fuchsia) colors, while the inclusion of up to 16 dBs of noise isolation allows kids to enjoy their music and games without being shut off from their parents. Expect to fork out $39.99 for the Logitech Loud Enough Noise-Isolating Earphones.


Coolest Gadgets UK – For all your UK centric tech and gadget news.
[ Logitech Loud Enough Noise-Isolating Earphones copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]


Microsoft SideWinder X4 keyboard

Posted: 02 Feb 2010 06:38 PM PST

sidewinder

Microsoft isn’t all software, you know? The company does have had its fair share of forays into the world of hardware and peripherals, with their Xbox 360 gaming console being a standout alongside the Microsoft ergonomic mouse and keyboard which made quite a splash when they were introduced in the last century. Of course, the keyboard was particularly memorable as it came in a contoured form factor, complete with its keys split down the middle. While that made it comfortable for typing, it didn’t bode too well for some gamers who configured their keys to take up the middle section of the keyboard. Well, fast forward to the 21st century and we have the new Microsoft SideWinder X4 Keyboard, a specially designed keyboard that offers gamers more control thanks to the industry's most advanced anti-ghosting technology. Thanks to the advancements by the Applied Sciences Group, this new technology is able to enable the most complex key combinations during a hectic gaming session without missing a beat, featuring macro recording, mode and profile switching and adjustable backlighting among others.

What does anti-ghosting technology mean for the layman? Basically, it allows you to press up to 26 keys simultaneously, and since each key is scanned independently by the keyboard hardware, the SideWinder X4 will register each key press correctly, independent of all the other keys being pressed at once. In other words, the SideWinder 4 Keyboard by far excels where other keyboards fail, allowing gamers to execute key combinations that will be able to keep up with your skill and speed.

Other features include macro recording which allows lets them string together multiple moves into a single button press, while automatic macro repetition is a new feature which allows one to repeat the macro time and again with just a single key. Mode and profile switching is also supported, providing an extremely easy way to customize the keyboard for various games and users, with adjustable backlighting allowing one to set the right lighting level whenever you game in the dark. Expect to pick up the SideWinder X4 Keyboard later next month for $59.95 – to be sure you get a copy, Amazon allows you to place a pre-order later this week.

Press Release


Cool Gift Idea: Digital Picture Frames, check out our reviews.
[ Microsoft SideWinder X4 keyboard copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]