Latest Posts on Coolest Gadgets

ShoutOUT speech recognition app now on the Android Market
Targus announces Smallest, Lightest Laptop & Portable Device Chargers
Sony rolls out new home audio solutions with 3D functionality
Gadget Thumbnails for 23-Apr-2010
Panasonic prices VIERA VT25 Series of Full HD 3D Plasma TVs
VTech has new spring range of phones for the home and office
Sanyo announces quartet of Wide XGA format projectors
Verizon Wireless announces HTC DROID Incredible
Maxatec Xplore DT-351 Compact PDA With Integrated CCD Barcode Scanner

ShoutOUT speech recognition app now on the Android Market

Posted: 24 Apr 2010 06:30 AM PDT

Promptu Systems Corporation’s latest free speech recognition app known as SoutOUT is now available on the Android Market, where it allows users to compose text messages in natural speech instead of lettingt their fingers to all the typing. Motorolad Droid owners will be able to check out this app over the Android Market, although we do have our reservations as to the accuracy of such an app – how fast is it able to detect the number of words spoken, and will it be able to handle non-native English speakers? Still, ShoutOUT bears some merit since at point of publishing, there are no other Android speech recognition app that can be used for text messaging, including Google Voice functionality in Android 2.1, which is able to hold a candle to ShoutOUT’s accuracy which has been fully integrated with the Android SMS client. Apart from that, it relies on Smartword, Promptu’s editing tool that allows users to see and select from likely word alternatives.

Will this prove to be a hit of an app? Only time will tell, but something tells us that those who are way more used typing out their text messages in a flurry of finger movements will prefer to stick to the keyboard. Of course, you might argue that sometimes you need to send a text message out urgently, and have both hands occupied. What can I say? If it is really that urgent and important, surely you will be able to pull over to the side of the road and make sure that you type it out within the fastest time possible with the least amount of chance for errors – after all, speaking when driving doesn’t exactly mean your focus on the road is still 100%, and should the speech recognition capability let you down during that moment, you might just send a well intentioned but wrong meanings along in the message.

There are ways to go around this though, and in order to maximize accuracy for ShoutOUT, a personalized acoustic model is assigned for every user during the app’s registration process. Guess this means other folks aren’t advised to use your Droid when speaking to compose a text message! ShoutOUT’s speech recognition is server-based, and 100% automated, where all message transcriptions that appear on users’ phones are created without any human intervention to ensure your privacy. Other features include Voice Addressing, full integration into the phone’s messaging service, message exchanges threaded by recipient, thumbnail images for contacts and one-touch navigation to all recent incoming and outgoing messages.

Press Release

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[ ShoutOUT speech recognition app now on the Android Market copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]

Targus announces Smallest, Lightest Laptop & Portable Device Chargers

Posted: 24 Apr 2010 06:00 AM PDT

Targus is a name synonymous with notebook accessories, and today the company is proud to announce that they have a new range of smallest, lightest notebook as well as portable device chargers in the market. Yes sir, you can go check out their claim by perusing through the products that they have on offer, where these latest offerings would be ideal for travel with the ability to charge multiple devices simultaneously regardless of whether you are at home, in the office, on the road, in an airplane, boat or car. More detail on these products are available in the extended post, so read on.

The new range of notebook chargers were specially designed to be versatile as well as eco-friendly, and when coupled with the Tips from Targus program, these chargers are able to be upgraded to work with other mobile devices in the household, as well as new notebooks that you bring home along the way down the road without any additional charge (although you will need to fork out your own dough for shipping and handling fees). Apart from that, the product was designed with next generation technology, which means they are a whole lot smaller in size, offering a flexible, modular platform for different types of usage modes and charging needs. You will be pleased to know that the AC cord is removed, hence reducing bulk when traveling, while the power adapter itself remains out of the way when used. This results in using up to 60% less materials to build and package compared to adapters of today, making it the most eco friendly power adapter on the market today.

Targus Premium Laptop Charger (AC/DC) – APM69CA
Half the size and weight of typical AC/DC charger, the Targus Premium Laptop Charger includes nine laptop tips, one mini-USB tip and one iPad/iPhone/iPod/iTouch charging tip. Included with the AC charger is a separate DC charger that plugs directly into a cigarette lighter and also charges two devices simultaneously. The AC charger features an integrated rotating plug, which allows the charger to sit vertically into a power strip without blocking other outlets. The Premium Laptop Charger, which includes both the AC and DC chargers is available for an MSRP of $169.99 and supports virtually all leading brands of laptops.

Targus Compact Laptop Charger (AC) – APA69CA
The Compact Laptop Charger is half the size and weight of a typical AC charger and it provides simultaneous charging of most laptop brands and a low-power devices. The APA69CA is compatible with most HP, Dell, Sony, Lenovo, IBM, Panasonic, Compaq, Acer, Asus, Gateway and Fujitsu laptops. This charger includes a mini-USB tip for low-power devices like a BlackBerry and has an iPad/iPhone/iTouch/iPod connector available for shipping and handling fees. The Compact Laptop Charger measures 2.73 x 0.78 x 4.5 inches, weighs 11.6 ounces and is available for an MSRP of $99.99.

Targus Netbook Charger (AC) – APA70CA
The most versatile netbook charger on the market today, Targus’ new Netbook Charger supports a wide array of leading netbook brands plus charges one additional low power device at the same time. The AC charger is compatible with netbooks by leading manufacturers such as Acer, Asus, Compaq, Dell, HP, IBM, Lenovo, MSI and Samsung. It measures 2.73 x 0.78 x 4.5 inches, weighs 11.5 ounces and is available for an MSRP of $89.99. The unique design also allows the charger to simultaneously charge a low power device including a smartphone, iPad/iPhone/iTouch/iPod or other low-power device.

Targus Mobile Laptop Charger (DC) – APD80CA
Ideal for travel, the new Mobile Laptop Charger is the lightest and most compact DC charger on the market today. The charger can be used as an additional charger when you’re working in the car or on an extended flight or train ride. The DC charger includes eight laptop tips and one mini-USB tip. It conveniently lets you charge more with less clutter so you can leave all your other chargers at home. It measures just 3 1/2 inches long, weighs 6.9 ounces and is available at an MSRP of $89.99. All of Targus’ new chargers can power or charge two devices simultaneously. The AC Chargers all have a rotating integrated AC plug that allows you to plug the charger vertically into a power strip without blocking other outlets.

All of these will ship with a 2-year limited warranty, which ought to be long enough for most folks.

Press Release

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[ Targus announces Smallest, Lightest Laptop & Portable Device Chargers copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]

Sony rolls out new home audio solutions with 3D functionality

Posted: 24 Apr 2010 05:30 AM PDT

Looks like going 3D is the way forward, and companies are jumping aboard the 3D bandwagon like nobody’s business. Well, Sony is no different as they work on introducing a trio of new home audio solutions that offer 3D capability. Both the HT-CT350 and HT-CT150 3.1 channel would fall under the sound bar category, while the HT-SF470 5.1 channel home theater system brings a flexible solution to discerning home consumers, rounding off the Sony 3D experience while meeting the demands of 3D home entertainment. After all, wouldn’t it make perfect sense to back up a visual 3D feast with an aural one as well?

Sony decided that simplifying audio and video signal transfer in the new models that feature 3D pass-through with HDMI repeater (three inputs/one output) will be able to bring out the best audio quality possible, while playing nice with standby pass-through for audio and video devices connected via HDMI. The 400 watt total system power (100 watts x 3 channels + 100 watts subwoofer) HT-CT350 was specially designed to work in tandem with Sony’s 2010 BRAVIA televisions, where Sony has prepared a bracket with each purchase so that you can attach it directly to a number of 40 and above sets through a wall mount or the table top stand. As for the HT-CT150, you will be able to get 340 watts of total system power (85 watts x 3 channels + 85 watts sub) and a design that matches Sony’s 2010 32-inch BRAVIA HDTVs. Both of these models will support lossless linear pulse code modulation (LPCM) Blu-ray Disc audio via the HDMI input. Apart from that, they also come with BRAVIA Sync for control of compatible devices from a single remote, including Sony’s Digital Media Port for iPod (you can pick up the iPod cradle separately) and a couple of digital audio inputs (one coax and one optical) to round of its list of notable specifications.

As for Sony’s new 5.1 channel HT-SF470 home theater system, this 3D capable setup will work best when paired with a Blu-ray 3D player. It boasts 1000 watt (157W x 5 + 167W sub) with 3D pass-through via the three HDMI inputs, HDMI repeater and audio return channel. Both front and rear speakers are of the floor standing variety, while you get S-Air wireless technology and wireless multi-room capabilities to further reduce the number of wires that snake through the home in order to prevent unwanted trips and falls. Meant to match Sony’s 2010 Blu-ray Disc players and BRAVIA HDTVs, this model comes with BRAVIA Sync, Digital Media Port for iPod, a couple of digital audio inputs (one coax and one optical) and digital cinema auto calibration for easy set up. Expect to fork out around $400 for the HT-CT350 40-inch sound bar system this May, while the HT-CT150 32-inch sound bar system is going for around $300 at the same month. As for the HT-SF470 surround sound system, you will have to wait a month more where it will retail for approximately $550.

Press Release

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[ Sony rolls out new home audio solutions with 3D functionality copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]

Gadget Thumbnails for 23-Apr-2010

Posted: 23 Apr 2010 10:01 PM PDT

Check out the Coolest Gadgets 2008 Gift Guides, Christmas shopping made easy.
[ Gadget Thumbnails for 23-Apr-2010 copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]

Panasonic prices VIERA VT25 Series of Full HD 3D Plasma TVs

Posted: 24 Apr 2010 05:00 AM PDT

Panasonic has finally revealed the pricing structure for its range of VIERA VT25 Series of Full HD 3D Plasma TVs, where this will mark an expansion of Panasonic’s 3D offerings to a grand total of four screens which come in varying sizes. The first VIERA VT25 models will hit the US market sometime early next month onwards, where you get 50″ class (49.9″ diagonal) and 54″ class (54.1″ diagonal) sizes with the 58″ class (58″ diagonal) and 65″ class (64.7″ diagonal) sizes to follow a month later – just in time for the World Cup, don’t you think so? You will find that the 50″ and 54″ models will retail for $2,599.95 and $2,999.95, respectively, while the 58″ model will knock your bank account back by $3,399.95 with its 65″ model going for $4,299.95. More details on what the TVs are able to offer in the extended post.

All of the Panasonic VIERA VT25 Series models will come with Full HD 3D Technology, where you will be able to experience a true Full 1080p 3D image thanks to new, faster screen phosphors (short-stroke) which will work in tandem with the VIERA VT25’s 600Hz sub-field drive, capable of outputting alternating imagery at 60 frames per second to each eye. When functioning in harmony with the compulsory Active Shutter Eyewear, the human brain will be able to merge both images together, interpreting them as a Full HD 3D image to deliver the highest possible realistic visual experience right smack in your living room. You will be pleased to know that each purchase of a Panasonic VIERA VT25 Series model will be accompanied by one pair of Panasonic 3D Active Shutter Eyewear, although you can always indulge the entire family with additional pairs for $149.95 a pop.

Apart from that, the Infinite Black Pro Panel is a brand new phosphor technology which is touted to produce deep blacks (5,000,000:1 native contrast) and vivid images with minimal reflection, while being a THX Certified Display makes sure that what you see is what the director originally intended, giving you the closest cinematic experience possible right in the comfort of your living room. Of course, with VIERA CAST WiFi with Skype Capability, you will be able to keep in touch with friends and family over Skype while enjoying access to feature films including information and communication offerings such as Amazon Video on Demand, Bloomberg News, Fox Sports and Netflix.

Press Release

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[ Panasonic prices VIERA VT25 Series of Full HD 3D Plasma TVs copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]

VTech has new spring range of phones for the home and office

Posted: 23 Apr 2010 09:39 PM PDT

Mention VTech and most probably you would associate the brand name with a wide range of cordless phones, especially for the home and office. Well, the company has danced with the seasons, releasing their latest range of digital cordless phones, where among them would be the first of its kind in the industry – the Push-to-Talk capable LS6325 series. VTech’s LS6325 series was specially designed to cater to today’s busy households, offering maximum efficiency without breaking your delicate monthly budget. Slapped with a price point that does not surpass $100, the LS6325 cordless phones will come with Push-to-Talk (PTT) functionality, enabling instant communication to any room in the house, making it perfect for mom to “holler” to the kids to get to the dining room if they’re still occupied in the playroom three stories up. A modern day walkie talkie of sorts, so to speak, with the tried-and-tested ability as a regular cordless house phone.

Targeting families and small office users, the push-to-talk feature will function as a virtual walkie-talkie thanks to the handset speakerphone, doing away with the need to shout through the house at family members, while adding a touch of professionalism and speedier communication when it comes to small offices. The LS6325 has a working range of up to 1,500 feet, basically enabling users to roam throughout the house or office as long as they do not go beyond the working range from its base station. You will also find that its backlit LCD display paves the way for easy viewing, where the sleek DECT 6.0 system offers a smart, practical design. Apart from that, the LS6325 also comes with the option to expand up to five handsets (which is made possible by coughing up more dough via the LS6305 accessory handset which retails for $19.95).

You will be able to choose from a couple of product bundles, where the $79.95 three-handset LS6325-3 will keep the four-handset LS6325-4 company, where the latter is going for $89.95. Those with a heart for the environment will also be pleased to note that VTech’s environmentally friendly 2010 DECT cordless phones come with energy-efficient 7-day, 7-hour battery performance and are ENERGY STAR certified and RoHS compliant, while shipping in 100% recyclable materials with FDA-approved aqueous coating that eliminates hazardous chemicals.

Press Release

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[ VTech has new spring range of phones for the home and office copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]

Sanyo announces quartet of Wide XGA format projectors

Posted: 23 Apr 2010 09:35 PM PDT

Folks living in the US who want to pick up a spanking new projector will be pleased to know that they now have at least four more headache inducing choices to pick from courtesy of Sanyo, where they will be able to cater to a wide range of environments such as large conference rooms, lecture halls and digital signage applications. Among the four new Wide XGA high-brightness high performance projectors include the PLC-WM5500 (with standard zoom lens:LNS-S20), and PLC-WM5500L (with optional lens) have a very high brightness of 5,500 ANSI lumens, and the PLC-WM 4500 (with standard zoom lens:LNS-S20), and PLC-WM4500L (with optional lens) have brightness of 4,500 ANSI lumens. All of them will come with a couple of new modes that lets you present two images simultaneously – now how about that!

Among the other shared specifications and functions include the use of Wide XGA panels in 16:10 widescreen aspect ratio, and up to 1,280 x 800 resolution which paves the way for showing off more information that what is normally possible using a standard 4:3 XGA panel and 1,024 x 768 resolution. The $5,645 PLC-WM5500 and $4,095 PLC-WM4500L are tipped to arrive later this July, while folks who want to pick up the $4,545 PLC-WM4500 will have to wait for an additional month after that. If you really cannot wait and are impatient by nature, then the earliest among the four projectors to arrive on our shores would be the $4,995 PLC-WM5500L.

Interested to know more about the two new operating modes? Well, they basically enable these projectors to simultaneously display two video sources. Thanks to its Picture-by-Picture Mode, you can also display two images in fixed screen locations of equal size, while the Picture-in-Picture Mode displays will show off an inset image within the full-frame image. Of course, the size and position of the smaller image can be specified by the user, depending on the quality of one’s projection screen as well as eyesight. With this feature, you basically do away with the need to purchase two projectors, since you can always show off a slide show alongside a video presentation for added effect. Any takers?

Press Release

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[ Sanyo announces quartet of Wide XGA format projectors copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]

Verizon Wireless announces HTC DROID Incredible

Posted: 23 Apr 2010 09:22 PM PDT

HTC seems to be riding on an uptrend wave with their latest range of Android-powered handsets that are nibbling into the world of smartphone sales, although it doesn’t look as though it is going to topple Apple from it’s lofty perch anytime soon. Still, the latest release by HTC from Verizon Wireless would be the DROID Incredible, and it will hit the US from April 29th onwards. Boasting a “topographic” design which oozes with powerful engineering just beneath the surface, the DROID Incredible by HTC was specially designed with craftsmanship and precision while making it a snap to remain connected on all fronts, be it over voice, text, email or social networks. If you’re interested to know more about the latest superphone from HTC, why not head on to the extended post?

The HTC DROID Incredible comes with the latest version of the HTC Sense experience, boasting a seven-panel home screen with a wide selection of interactive widgets that enables you to place the most important and commonly accessed content with but a simple touch. This allows customers to enjoy seamless integration with Exchange ActiveSync as well, while providing quick and easy access to Flickr for sharing and viewing pictures and video. For those who want to enhance their experience, there is always the Android Market to fall back on, where you will be able to download over 30,000 Google applications as you see fit. This is also the first smartphone by HTC at Verizon Wireless which will see action with its Qualcomm 1GHz superfast Snapdragon processor, not to mention a stunning 8-megapixel camera for you to capture those picture perfect moments with aplomb.

Other key features about the DROID Incredible would be :-

Android 2.1 with HTC Sense experience
1GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon processor for maximum responsiveness
Friend Stream for unified Flickr, Facebook and Twitter updates
“Leap” view for quick access to all seven home screen panels
8 megapixel camera with dual LED flash for crisp, detailed images
Razor-sharp 3.7 inch WVGA (480 x 800) AMOLED capacitive touch display
Optical joystick for smooth navigation
Dedicated, touch-sensitive Home, Menu, Back and Search keys
Proximity sensor, light sensor and digital compass
Integrated GPS
Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g)
3.5mm headset jack

You can already place a pre-order online, where it will retail for $199.99 after a $100 mail-in rebate with a customary new two-year customer agreement. To optimize your DROID Incredible experience, we would recommend you get an unlimited data plan to go along with it.

Press Release

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[ Verizon Wireless announces HTC DROID Incredible copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]

Maxatec Xplore DT-351 Compact PDA With Integrated CCD Barcode Scanner

Posted: 23 Apr 2010 09:13 PM PDT

How many of us these days use a PDA? Well, smartphones have long taken over that role, but there is still some room left for this dying breed in the business sector. Case in point, the Maxatec Xplore DT-351 Compact PDA With Integrated CCD Barcode Scanner. This device will be the latest addition to Maxatec's range of mobile computing devices, where it will be the next logical step up from its predecessor, the fully featured DT-350 compact PDA. Maxatec’s DT-351 sports all the relevant features of the DT-350 with the added capability of an integrated CCD barcode scanner. This will cater to businesses who want something special and yet do not want to break their budget, since the Xplore series is a unique and low cost, wireless mobile solution boasting enhanced Wi-Fi stability alongside features such as single SSID enforcement and 'Wi-Fi Always On' connectivity.

All devices from the Xplore range will be equipped with a built-in system back-up feature that will allow enterprises to clone and install PDA images for mass deployment, helping organizations save costs in the long run as well as time. Of course, this would mean system administrators would have a whole lot less headache when it comes to making sure the rest of the employees have their Maxatec Xplore DT-351 up and running just fine within a short period of time. Users will be able to choose from two modes of operation – Administration and User modes. Meant to see action in the corporate sector, you will realize quickly that this model is spartan when it comes to entertainment – basically, it won’t be able to handle music, video and games. At least the vibration alert, configurable LED signalling and configurable short-cut key will enable enterprises to develop unique applications to meet specific business needs.

There is no word on pricing as at press time, but here are the specifications of the Xplore DT-351 :-