Disposable Paper Laptop could turn out to be quite indispensable

Designer Je Sung Park is striving towards the idea of us careless masses being able to throw away our laptops if need be. And yet leave no harmless waste for the environment to deal with.

That maybe an overstatement, but we love that the idea of recyclable laptops is budding in such creative minds. Park's idea is that of a eco-friendly laptop that uses recycled paper or pulp for its external casing instead of metal or plastics. The laptop itself, he proposes, will be designed in "layers" so that you can easily throw away damaged portions without being accused of creating more e-waste. Sounds great, even if only on paper.

Via Yanko Design.

Voice Activated Crib Light is Relief for Parents and Children

After hearing the horror stories from friends with newborns of days with little or no sleep for days at a time, I've learned to appreciate a god night's sleep. Fortunately for those going through the transition of having a new baby in the house, someone empathizes with your plight. The folks over at ThinkGeek are selling a Voice Activated Crib Light with Womb Sounds.

If you're little one should wake from his or her restful slumber in a fuss, three colored lights turn on in response to the cry and start rotating to soothe your child. In addition, the device will play actual "womb music", sounds recorded from the womb. Just strap it to your baby's crib and the crib light will play for ten minutes after hearing your baby's cry which with any luck, will lull them back to sleep allowing you to get a full eight hours.

For only $14.99, the Crib Light is a 6.5" x 5" x 2.25" miracle worker if it actually gets the job done. It runs on 4 AA batteries and can be strapped to the crib or just laid flat. So would you give this gadget a shot or do you think it's too good to be true?

Via Coolest Gadgets

LED Dress Lights Up Your Wardrobe and the Night

One look at this dress and I was blown away by its beauty and innovation. The Galaxy Dress is a one of a kind of creation put together by two designers. Comprised of 24,000 LED lights, 4,000 Swarovski crystals and quite a lot of iPod batteries, this dress is being called "the largest wearable display in the world." While it's a breathtaking creation in still images, video is the only medium that really does this light-up gown any justice.

Designers Francesca Rosella and Ryan Genz, creators of a "fashionable technology company" called CuteCircuit, reached out to Wired.com to give some background story to the dress.

“We used the smallest full-color LEDs, flat like paper, and measuring only 2 by 2 mm,” say designers Francesca Rosella and Ryan Genz in an e-mail. “The circuits are extra-thin, flexible and hand-embroidered on a layer of silk in a way that gives it stretch so the LED fabric can move like normal fabric with lightness and fluidity.”

Thanks to Thanko: USB-Powered Eyelash Curler

Because you absolutely, positively have to do your makeup at your desk, Thanko, creators of such "gems" as the USB-powered dinosaur slipper foot warmer and the USB Soldering Iron has just announced the USB-powered Eyelash Curler. Yep, there is now a USB-powered eyelash curler on the market.

The Touch Beauty Eyelash Curler is pretty simple to use. You just plug it into an available USB port and use like you would a regular curler. I'm hoping that there's more to it, maybe it has a little heating action to help get the curling action going. If not, I really don't see the point of it being USB-powered.

Via Akihabara News

Go Gaga for Karaoke on Your iPhone

Fans of Lady Gaga and karaoke can rejoice. There's now an iPhone/iPod Touch app that satisfies both of those cravings. The Lady Gaga iOKi features four songs from the oddly compelling pop star including new single "Bad Romance" from her upcoming album "Fame Monster". The app turns yours your Apple device into a mini-karaoke machine complete with themes, images, and video of Lady Gaga.

Lady Gaga’s manager Troy Carter said, "The Lady Gaga Karaoke app is a great way for her fans to experience the music in a non-traditional way. We constantly look for new ways that allow her community of fans to interact with each other with the music as the centerpiece, and gridMob nailed it."

The Eyes Have It with LED Lashes

I've never been a fan of false eyelashes. Something about the idea of putting glue anywhere near my eyes gives me the willies. So when I saw these, I was extra freaked out. These falsies actually have LED's attached to them (Great, glue and lights?).

As much as they give me the heebie jeebies, I definitely admire the creativity of Soomi Park, the funky eyelash creator. The LED eyelashes are rigged to turn on when the wearer tilts their head a certain way. Eye phobia aside, these would be an awesome addition to a Holloween costume or we might be looking at the eyewear of the future.

Via Craziest Gadgets

Sensium wireless digital patch makes patient monitoring less painful

Though wireless technology has made our daily lives so much simpler, isn't it about time that it spread out of the confines of our homes and into life-critical environments such as hospitals? Apparently, it has. As a result of which, we might get to experience (hopefully not) devices such as the Sensium Digital Plaster - a wireless monitoring patch that can be stuck to a patient's body like a Band-Aid strip, to monitor his/her vital signs.

The disposable wireless patch is powered by "thin" batteries and can give information on a person's heart rate, temperature and perspiration for a period of several days. It can also interface with smartphones and PDAs, and wirelessly transmit clinical data to your doctor. The device is currently under clinical trial and is expected to complete the first round of trials by end of this year. For those who have experienced the discomfort of being hooked to a bulky, imposing machine that takes away the few remaining moments of peace with its unwanted blips and peaks on the screen, you know what a blessing this alternative can be.

Via The Red Ferret.

MinoHD's New Attitude

As the market for affordable, easy to use, pocket camcorders has become more competitive, one can't simply rest on it's laurels and rake in the dough. Feeling the hot breath from Apple, Kodak, and JVC on the nape of its neck, Flip is coming out swinging. Almost a year after its debut, the Flip MinoHD is back with some awesome upgrades.

Billing itself as "the world's sleekest HD camcorder", the MinoHD is definitely a looker with it's brushed metal front and rounded edges. If you're tired of the same old black and white gadgets, you can always spruce up your Flip using the pattern generator, design gallery or even use one of your own images to give it that unique bit of panache that you're looking for.

Looks aside, the second generation Mino comes with twice the storage space (4GB to 8GB) which translates into twice the recording time (60 mins to 120 mins). In addition, the MinoHD also has a larger screen than the previous model. Like its predecessor, the 2nd gen MinoHD still shoots video at 720p at 30fps. And with the 2X digital zoom, you can rest assured that the video quality is still there.

Acer's 3D notebook Aspire 5738DG gets the official nod

Acer has finally come out with the real specs for its much flaunted 3D laptop - the Aspire 5738DG - and gathering from first hand experiences, it remains pretty much a normal laptop except for a moderately satisfying 3D gaming experience.

The Aspire 5738DG boasts a 15.6-inch screen specially designed for 3D effects, and carries within a 2.2GHz Intel Core2 Duo T6600 processor, running Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit OS. The gaming uses TriDef's software which provides the 3D environment, and according to the folks at PC Magazine, the 3D effects will not make you fall off your chair. Take your 3D glasses off and the princess gets back to being Cinderella. That's then the basic Aspire laptop with 4GB of RAM, 320GB HDD, ATI Radeon HD 4570 graphics, and 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi. Suitable for gaming enthusiasts looking for an inexpensive laptop. Acer's shipping the laptop this week at a pretty unassuming $779.99.

Via SlashGear.

Kyle Bean shows the evolution of mobile phones in Russian Doll style

If you agree with the line of thinking that a picture can replace a thousand words, you would surely agree with the extension - that a model can replace a zillion pictures. So assuming that it would be boring to look at a chart, however well-done, to visualize the evolution of a device, give your eyes a treat by looking at this creation by UK-based designer Kyle Bean to demonstrate the evolution of the mobile phone.

The design captures the evolution of the mobile phone in Russian Babushka doll style - starting from the earliest Motorola DynaTAC 8000X to the current Apple iPhone. A lesson or two for schools to make history more interesting.

Via Design Milk.

USB TurboCharger 3400 keeps your mobile devices from giving up

Living within a "connected" planet where mobile devices almost define our identities, it becomes imperative for them to have (if possible) zero downtime. I sometimes wonder if the companies which make chargers for these mobile devices make more money than those that develop the devices in the first place. Hmm...

That said, the USB TurboCharger 3400 is another portable charger that can be used exclusively to crank up your mobile devices - mp3 players, cellphones or smartphones. The TurboCharger itself stores juice (3400 mAh storage) while it is connected to your PC/laptop's USB port and can decently charge several of your devices before it runs out completely. The device is sleek and compact, with an attractive LED display that shows the level of charge remaining. It comes with a retractable cable and range of interchangeable connector heads for different mobile devices. Will cost ya $57.

Via The Red Ferret.

Jenny McCarthy and Ubisoft Team Up For New Fitness Game

First Jillian Michaels, now Jenny McCarthy, it seems like everyone is trying to get in on the fitness gaming craze. Started by the highly successful Wii Fit, fitness games appeal to people that may not have the time to get to the gym or don't want to spend their hard-earned dollars on a gym membership.

Your Shape
, Ubisoft's addition to the fitness genre hopes to surpass Wii Fit's impressive sales numbers with more precise exercise movements, a little innovation, and a little help from funny woman Jenny McCarthy filling the spot of your in-game workout buddy. The Nintendo exclusive game features over 400 exercises including strength training, toning, and cardio. Unlike other fitness games, Your Shape is totally Wiimote free. So how does the game make sure your doing the exercise? Simple. Your Shape will be debuting the first ever camera for the Nintendo Wii.

The included camera will scans your body and detects your movements. After the initial scan, it projects your image onto the TV screen so you can watch your movements. As you exercise, the camera will be monitoring your motion to ensure you're not phoning it in and have the correct form. If you're slacking, or just not getting the movement down, Jenny will help you correct your form in real time.

The Path to Nirvana is in Your Bathroom

According to Merriam-Webster dictionary, Nivana is "a place or state of oblivion to care, pain, or external reality." It has also been described as heaven or pure bliss. Fitting then that this beauty of a bathtub has been christened the Nirvana bathtub. This spa-level bathroom fixture lights your personal path to enlightenment via strategically placed LEDs that give the impression that you're bathing among the stars.

But the Nirvana bathtub is more than luxury covered in pretty lights. It's also eco-friendly, using approximately 60% less water than comparable tubs of its size due largely to the shallow high-grade translucent acrylic shape. In addition, the Nirvana features touch controls via a panel that controls an electronic tap and automatic water fill/stop function. Other controls include the motion sensitive hand shower, activated by a simple wave of a hand and the light controls, because sometimes you Nirvana is best reached without all the fanfare.

No word yet on whether this luxe tub is destined to remain a concept or whether it will be helping bathrooms worldwide transcend their lowly existence.

Via Born Rich

The Beatles catalog to be available on limited edition apple-shaped USB sticks

The Gods need no longer be dependent on your whimsical bio-logical memory alone for their existence. For folks at Apple Corps Ltd. and EMI Music have collaborated on this wonderful, wonderful limited edition run of 30,000 USB apples that contain the whole of the Beatles re-mastered catalog for the benefit of fans in the UK and USA.

The 16GB USB drive will be sold on December 7th (UK) and December 8th (USA) with the audio and visual contents provided in FLAC 44.1 Khz, 24 bit and 320 Kbps MP3 formats, fully compatible with PC and Mac. The USB stick will integrate the re-mastered audio for The Beatles’ 14 stereo titles, as well as 13 mini-documentary films about the studio albums, replicated original UK album art, rare photos and expanded liner notes. It is on pre-order right now at $279.99 on the official Beatles store. And well, if you are waiting for us to tell you that this is a great steal, buzz off coz you ain't no real fan.

Via Engadget.

Green tech: How to cut the cost of solar equipment

Solar power. Solar heating. Solar lighting. Sure, you'd like to fuel your life for free with help from the everlasting sun. Trouble is, it's not really free.

The equipment that can turn sunshine into a warm, well-lit life costs the earth. You can easily spend $20,000 or more for rooftop solar panels, for example.

But there's hope. Alternative financing of solar has begun in the US, in a small way. For example, a few thousand homeowners is California, Arizona, and Oregon are reducing their upfront costs by leasing solar equipment--and paying an estimated 15% less for electricity, equipment included. And the federal government has an assortment of programs that underwrite homeowners' solar projects.

Read all about these and other possibilities for reducing the cost of solar equipment at E, the environmental magazine.

Green tech: How to find the best green products

Save $1500 on your energy bill this year. The latest on plastics and canned foods that contain Bisphenol A. Green ratings of electronics, cars, and other products. What green consumer goods should you buy, and how can you find them?

It's one-stop shopping for that information, plus green news too, at the Greener Choices web site, free from the respected publication Consumer Reports. You can sign up for free newsletters, too.

Green tech: At the beauty salon, be the girl with green hair

You can be the eco-conscious girl with green hair if you patronize beauty salons that use green hair-care products.

Hair dyes, shampoos, and other such products have traditionally contained synthetic chemicals that can harm the user and the environment. But an increasing number of hair care salons are saying "no" to that tradition. They're stocking environment-friendly products and using them on their customers.

It's a trend that first took hold--of course--in California. But the trend is spreading to other parts of the US. An article in Scientific American advises you to just Google "green hair salons" plus your state abbreviation and you may be surprised to find one--or more--near you.

And if you can't find a local green hair salon, you can nag your favorite salon into turning green. Urge your hairdressers to use the increasing number of hair-care options that are safer for their clients and the world. Some brand names to look for: EcoColors, Aveda, Modern Organic Products or Innersense

Bang & Olufsen puts the spotlight back on landlines with the BeoCom 5

While most of us are obsessed with our shiny smartphones and limited edition luxury cellphones, the landlines have silently borne the negligence. Yeah, remember that very first, "real" communication device which most of us thought we could never get enough of? And yet gave the boot as soon as we laid hands on the cellphone?

So the landline has decided to come back with a bang - oops - Bang & Olufsen's Beocom 5. And it carries the trademark
Bang & Olufsen oomph - great looks and superior audio quality that comes from the same audio technology used in their loudspeakers. The Beocom 5 can hold upto 400 contacts and allows for user-specific customization of display. It also offers a unique feature - the ability to rig up two separate phone lines with the same handset, say one personal line and another for work. The speaker sports a sleek aluminium finish and can handle group conferencing, perhaps when you suddenly feel the urge to connect to lost friends/family. Availability and pricing are still under the wraps, but you know better than to expect budget from B&O.

Via Engadget.

Ig Nobel prize winner: A bra that offers support AND life support

What women need are more bras that offer not just support, but life support. A while back I wrote about a sports bra that monitors your heart rate. Now there's a bra with more immediate life-saving potential.

This bra turns into 2 gas masks. One for you, one for a friend.

Behind this at-first-glance-ridiculous invention is a seriously unpleasant event: the 1986 nuclear accident at Chernobyl in Ukraine, usually described as the worst-ever. Scientist Elena Bodnar, formerly of Ukraine, the new bra's inventor, says her design could have kept people from breathing in deadly Iodine-131. This radioisotope was a major contributor to the rise in cancer and other health effects among people in the vicinity. (Thanks to Elizabeth Anderson Moore, who blogs at cnet.)

Bodnar was one of the winners of this year's Ig Nobel prizes. The Ig Nobels are an annual comic-kaze and always one of the highlights of the year in science. The Ig Nobels honor scientific achievements "that first make people laugh, and then make them think."

The photo shows Bodnar demonstrating her bra to three real Nobel laureates. All are wearing her creation, which comes in pink and black. That's the high-profile economist and columnist Paul Krugman on the far right--not his usual position.

Another of this year's Ig Nobel winners is anthropologist Liza Shapiro, who developed a theory about why pregnant women don't tip over: Women's back curves are anatomically different from men's. It's an evolutionary adaptation to upright posture and the need to carry a fetus out in front instead of underneath.

Revo heritage iPod/iPhone dock is also a radio with retro design

With docks floating dime-a-dozen around the iPod/iPhone accessory market, why would you consider another one just now? Well, consider what the Revo Heritage iPod dock propositions enticingly - handcrafted American Walnut body with the switches and inlay custom-manufactured for a complete 60's look and feel. Well, well.

And we've just begun. Hidden inside the lovely retro facade is all of cutting-edge technology - DAB, DAB+, FM and Wi-Fi internet radio, DLNA UPnP streaming, plus docking for your iPhone or iPod (all models). The minimalistic design packs in a ‘secret-until-lit’ graphical OLED screen, with a high-end 7W amplifier, 3-inch neodymium speaker driver, and a remote control. A USB port allows connection to other MP3 players or memory sticks with MP3s and even the videos on your iPod can be output to the OLED display via a video-out socket. Included with this awesome package is a 30-day trial package from online music service Last.fm, which gives you access to its database with more than 5 million tracks and is capable of generating a unique playlist each time you access it.

The Revo is due for an early November UK launch from John Lewis at a totally upmarket price of £229.95 (around USD $375).

Via SlashGear.

HP brings glamor to its netbooks, rolls out Envy 13 and Envy 15

This is exactly what it takes to get pursed lips to first gape, then air-kiss in the hope of being forgiven for their cynicism. And then grovel to be given a chance to lay their hands on something as gorgeous as the HP Envy 13.

Reed thin (0.8-inch thickness), absolutely dependable (18 hours battery life) and beautiful (3.74 pounds weight) is how you could identify this show-stopper announced by HP. The details are just as interesting too - the HP Envy 13 carries a 13.1-inch WXGA display with superior color (82% color gamut) and brightness (410 nit). The possibility of an 18-hour battery life is on account of an optional Slim Fit battery that can fit unobtrusively to bottom of the laptop and effortlessly extend the standard 7 hours battery life. Throw in an Intel Core 2 Duo 1.86GHz chip, 3GB of RAM and a 512MB ATI Mobile Radeon HD graphics card and you will realize that this stunner is more than just skin deep.

And then there is the sibling - the HP Envy 15 - that makes a much quieter, but a noticeable entry nevertheless. The Envy 15 comes with a 15.6-inch LCD display, Intel Core i7 processor, 16GB RAM and high-end Radeon HD 4830 graphics card. Which makes it a little heavier with the 1-inch thickness and 5.18 pounds weight, but hey, it makes big brother sturdier too. The Envy 13 is priced at $1,699 and the Envy 15 at $1,799. Both the laptops come with Windows 7 pre-loaded.

Bouncing off the walls is all you can do until October 18th when you can get a step closer to the awesome twosome.

Via Engadget, DVICE.

Cool and Unique watch by phosphorwatches

So your looking for a new cool LED watch, one that is both unique but subtle. Well take a look this way at a new watch by phosphorwatches.com. This unique and styleish time piece sports technology that is rare in watches and is sure to turn heads with its sleek look. Based on “E-Ink” the same type of technology used in Amazon Kindle and Sony ereader the display has a very book like font to it, unlike regular LCD watches that have an absolute streight edges.

An elegant curved watch case houses a distinctive digital display that fits comfortably on your wrist. The bright, high contrast E Ink electronic paper display insures readability day or night and allows you to select between differing watch dial modes to match whatever style fits your mood.

The Phosphor watch also has a contured case that wraps around your wrist to give a great fit and feel. If you are looking for a great Christmas gift this year thetechnologyblog.net highly recommends the Phosphor E Ink Digital Hour Clock Watch Stainless Steel

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Cool and Unique watch by phosphorwatches

Moshi Clock is a Gadget that Does What It's Told

You know how you hate the sound of the alarm clock in the morning? Maybe you sullenly get out of bed and begin you morning routine, maybe you mumble things so foul it would make Lisa Lampanelli blush. if you're the owner of the Moshi Voice Control Travel Clock, you might want to watch what you say, you might just hurt its feelings.

Okay, it's only a machine so it doesn't have feelings, but it does understand what you're saying to a certain degree. Instead of fumbling to set the alarm or engaging in a knock out, drag out fight to turn it off in the morning, you simply utter a key phrase and the Mochi clock hears and obeys thanks to the advanced voice recognition technology. Through the combination of "Neural Net and Hidden Markov Modeling (HMM) Phonetic Speaker Independent (SI) Recognition Software", the clock can understand over 1,000 different recorded voices. I wonder how this works when you have laryngitis? Commands include:Time, Set Time, Set Alarm, Turn off the Alarm, and Snooze.

Even though it's marketed as a travel clock, I see no reason why this couldn't be your main clock. It's got a cute rounded body and at 3.75" x 2.75" x 1" it doesn't take up much space. There are three alarm sounds to choose from and is powered by three AAA batteries. And for $24.99, it's a steal.

Interested in owning a Moshi? You can purchase one on their site or just check out the video for more information.

Via Gearlog

Massage Chair Makes You Feel Like a "Pure Lady"

There are times when a girl just needs a good massage, but who wants to pay all that money? And better yet who has the time to rush of to some fancy spa? No worries, comfort comes from the land of the rising sun.

The Pure Lady Message Chair is a portable number that will melt all your troubles away with its soothing massaging air bags that delivers accupressure to all your sore spots. Made of synthetic leather, the chair massages feet, calves, butt, waist and back while you sit and wonder what you ever did without this chair. The waist and back message are said to mimic the motions of a Shiatsu massage.

When you've been massaged back into good spirits, you simply fold it up into a neat little box. There's a handle and wheels on the bottoms so your can roll it to somewhere inconspicuous without any hassle. Or you can use it as a nifty stool where you can kick back and smell the roses.

Available in red and white or plain white, there's no word on pricing or if this product will come stateside, but there are millions of aching backs and feet that are hoping they can order this product soon.

Via Born Rich

Vertu fits bling into a clamshell, releases Constellation Ayxta luxury phones

Would you believe it if we were to tell you that Vertu has released its first clamshell phone? No wait, let us rephrase that. Would you believe it if we were to tell you that Vertu has released its first clamshell phone for - as the promos say - the "global citizen"? You would, only, now you would wonder if you can dare to belong to this mysterious genre called "global citizen" given Vertu's historical exclusivity.

And we'd hate to tell you that most of us don't. Vertu's latest phone series - Constellation F Ayxta - is still as untouchable to common folks as ever. It is Vertu's first clamshell, and is made from expensive materials that include stainless steel, ceramic, leather, sapphire crystal (for the display) and aerospace grade aluminum parts. For those who didn't flinch, the Ayxta sports a 3MP camera with dual LED flash, GPS, 3G HSDPA, microSD card support, and an application called "City Brief" that apparently provides “restaurant recommendations, the latest exhibitions, shopping guides and important cultural etiquette tips.” Grooming that maybe crucial to look worthy of the luxury that you are flaunting, eh?

The Constellation Ayxta series is priced between €4,900 ($7,178) and €6,500 ($9,522). So there goes affordability outta the door.

Via TechFresh.

I Want My WD TV Live!

With all the different types of media we now have access to (photos, video, music, etc.), I'm thankful for awesome gadgets like the media streamer. Unfortunately some are way pricier than others and on my meager salary I'm always looking to get the best for my overstretched buck. And in terms of price, Western Digital's update to its popular WD TV is just what the doctor ordered.

WD TV, Western Digital's first media streamer, received a lot of great reviews, but there were a few things that kept it from totally knocking it out of the park -- namely the lack of HD and wireless capacity. Bouyed by the positive feedback, Western Digital remedied those problems with the new WD TV Live. The Live is a total HD affair with 1080p playback for beautiful images and some crystal clear digital audio. The live also supports most of the popular media formats so there's no time wasted waiting for the file to transcode.

Stila Proves Makeup and Music are a Perfect Combination

Putting on makeup can be as simple or complicated as you make it. Whether your a gloss and go kind of woman or a makeup maven, one thing remains the same. There is nothing more annoying than having to search for your favorite cosmetics.

Stila has the solution to all your vanishing makeup problems. With their new makeup case, you can store all your highly guarded beauty secrets in one attractive case. There are plenty of compartments so everything from your falsies to your foundation brush will fit comfortably. And to make the morning makeup routine even more pleasurable, you can plug in your MP3 player and enjoy your favorite "I feel pretty" tunes through the built-in speakers while reciting your daily affirmations.

Samsung's Trill Makes Beautiful Music

Samsung recently unveiled the Trill, a mid-level phone for those that want more than your basic no-frills device, but don't need all the bells and whistles that come with most smartphones. The Trill is a cute little slider that will appeal to all the music lovers out there. The phone's curved shape is inspired by the rounded figure of the violin.

Powered by Bang & Olufsen’s high-powered audio tech called ICEpower will deliver crystal clear sound. According to the website, "You’re not listening to a playlist, you’re taking in a performance." We'll have to snag a review device and be the judge of that for ourselves. In addition to the quality sound, the Trill comes with a one touch Music Access button for easy access to your music. There's also 1GB of memory to store all your favorite tunes and a microSD card slot that can handle up to 32GB.

iNo Mobile simplifies the cellphone for kids and elderly

I do not know how I would react if my grandchild were to gift me a "for-elderly-only" gadget that would have nothing but the bare essentials, with the statement "The xxx device is the current rage Grandma, but I thought you needed one that's as simple to get around as ABC". One thing I know for certain - I would be saddened by my age being automatically assigned with a diminished learning ability. But for now, it gives me some hope to think that I am still several years away from that possibility and I resolve now to remain somewhat open to the idea, if ever. Sigh.

The iNo CP09 is another such GSM cellphone for kids and elderly that tears down the features to a minimum - a basic calculator-like screen with a large font display, large buttons, FM radio, torch light, headphone jack, and text messaging. And since both the categories of people are often imagined courting emergencies, there is an SOS button which when pressed sends a text alarm to a configured number and calls that number. Along with letting out a loud siren. Imagine the havoc a child could create with that. Whew.

The iNo Mobile is available exclusively in Singapore at $78.

Via Newlaunches.

The RollTop laptop wraps up like a banner, sports a flexible OLED display

Some geeks are crazier than we imagine. Thanks to their craziness and some great OLED technology, we might soon have laptops that have gone the way of those charming papyrus scrolls of ancient times. Ah yes, if Orkin Design's Rolltop ever comes into our lives, even the zippiest laptops of today may become pieces of history that our children will learn from a trip to the museum.

Okay, that's easier said than done, but no harm in letting ourselves oggle and drool over this crazy German invention that looks (and functions) like a laptop/tablet, but rolls up like a hedgehog when you are done. The Rolltop is the concept for a laptop/tablet PC that has a flexible, multitouch OLED display that spreads out in a 17-inch screen when open, but rolls up into a 13-inch portable cylinder when closed. The stylus, power adapter and USB ports are all on a detachable stand while the other standard accompaniments such as the mouse, keyboard, webcam and power cable are integrated beautifully into the Rolltop itself. And the OLED display also means a much lower power consumption and an "outstanding" battery life.

Is that the most awesome design we've set our eyes on lately? Nah. That's an understatement.

Catch the Rolltop video after the break.

Via Gizmodo.

Renault Concept Spa and Car in One

Ah the spa, where all troubles, worries, stressors are meticulously pampered away with facials, scrubs, and messages. Usually a trip to the spa costs a pretty penny, but if French automaker Renault has its way, soon you won't have to go farther than your car to get that spoiled rotten feeling.

Renault has joined forces with cosmetics maker Biotherm to create the Zoe Z.E. electric car concept. The car is sporting a climate control system that is similar to a spa. In lieu of using air conditioning which can be hard on the skin, the Zoe keeps the air inside the car cool and hydrated, preventing the skin from drying out.

The car also deals with outside toxicity levels by shutting the car's air vents when the built-in toxicity sensor detects one too many free radicals. But it just wouldn't be a spa without soothing scents, so the car has been set up to diffuse essential oils created by Biotherm to keep the driver calm no matter what time of the day, using three different scents to take care of morning, noon, and night.

Machismo may explain why men's lives are shorter than women's

A new survey is reporting that the more macho a man is, the more likely he is to resist preventive health measures like prostate exams.

That helps explain, researchers say, why US women currently average 5 years more of life, to age 80, than men do. The researchers speculate that especially macho men don't like taking advice from anyone else, even a doc.

If the data hold up, I wonder if there isn't a less psychological, more human explanation. We all secretly believe we're immortal--at least until hair-raising experience teaches each of us that death isn't going to make a special exception in our own case. Some of us are forced to learn that hard lesson sooner than others. Maybe men whose ideal is the tough guy are able to hang on to the fantasy longer than most.

PlayStation's New PSP is a "Go"

The PSP Go hits stores today for $249.99. Billing itself as "the smallest and mightiest PSP system yet", the Go comes with 16GB of memory and is the first handheld gaming console to break the bonds of cartridges and discs going totally digital. According to PlayStation.com, gamers can access 225 games and over 16,000 pieces of content from the PlayStation Store.

Approximately 43% smaller than previous PSP models, the Go weighs in a barely there 158g and is very pocket-friendly at 128 mm (W) x 69 mm (H) x 16.5 mm. The 3.8-inch screen with 480 x 272p resolution slides up to reveal the controls where I see Sony has decided to stick with the one analog stick model (sigh). Bluetooth and WiFi enabled gamers should be able to get their game on whenever and wherever the urge strikes as well as stay connected with friends via Skype.

Besides the steep price tag, the only drawback is that a way for owners of previous PSP models to transfer their UMD games over to the Go has yet to appear. Other than that, the Go appears to be a pretty solid piece of hardware with a lot of content to keep customers hungry for more.

H1N1, swine flu, Bill Maher, and U

Comedian/pundit/talk show host Bill Maher has reportedly tweeted that folks who get vaccinated against the new H1N1 ("swine") flu are idiots. Medical wisdom in 140 characters? Or is Maher, the twit, the real idiot?

Before you get swept away in an anti-vaccine frenzy, you might want to consult what www.flu.gov has to say. That's the US government's official take on the imminent flu season, complete with characters from Sesame Street. There's plenty of stuff for grown-ups too: what to do if you get flu-like symptoms, what pregnant women should know, places to get vaccinated against both seasonal flu and H1N1, and lots more.

This is a two-flu year, with H1N1 piling on top of the regular old seasonal flu that kills plenty of people on its own. There are different vaccines against these different diseases. Each flu tends to attack different groups, as I explained a few weeks ago.

Fitbit Keeps You Honest About Fitness

On the road to fitness, making the initial decision is easy, putting in the actual work is the tricky part. If you're looking for some statistical motivation you might want to check out the Fitbit.The device accurately tracks, calories burned, distance traveled, and even hours slept.

According to the website, Fitbit uses 3D motion sensor technology similar to the Nintendo Wii to track movement in three dimensions creating an accurate report on your daily exercise activities. The collected data is collected every time you walk by the wireless base included in the setup.

A little larger than a quarter, the Fitbit can be clipped to the waist of your pants, slipped into a wallet, or attached to the included wristband to record your every move. Retailing at $99, the Fitbit is a nifty device that can help kick your exercise regiment into the next gear.

Via Engadget

Switch

I am always intrigued by new designs that aim at energy saving, which is probably why my attention was caught by Switch a power socket designed by Yong-jin Kim. Switch’s purpose is to help users save on their electricity bills that are often affected by the Stand-By power of many appliances and gadgets left plugged in. By making it very easy and effortless to disconnect any type of power-sucking device, the consumer’s “lazy” or “forgetful” behavior can therefore be modified. So, instead of bending down all the way to your power socket and unplug whatever is contributing to both a bad consumer and environmental behavior, you can now bend all the way down but simply turn the plug to turn it off.

And now I wonder, is Switch really making a difference?

I like its concept and sleek design but I am not convinced that it will influence a behavioral pattern for the better. Granted, its fancy style will make my power sockets look a lot nicer and my apartment a lot tidier than if I would have a bunch of unplugged cords lying around, but if I forget or am just too lazy to unplug my appliances I wonder how Switch will make it any easier for me to either remember or make it so effortless to unplug the incriminating device that I will actually go ahead and do it.

Via Yanko Design.

Period Relief is a Pill Away

One day soon, period pain might be a thing of the past thanks to a new drug currently being tested. This possible boon to womankind is being tested and developed by Vantia Therapeutics. Designated VA111913, the pill, taken orally, could potentially take the place of current methods of alleviating menstrual cramps including aspirin.

According to recent trials, the pill levels out the muscle contractions that are the main cause of painful cramps. With Phase I testing deemed a success, Phase II of the testing will include "128 women aged between 18 and 25 in the UK and the US." The results of the testing should be ready for review sometime in 2010.

If testing is successful, the drug could be available in as little as four years. Until then, women the world over will have to grin and bear it and keep their fingers crossed.

Via Gizmag

Pure Sensia: A Treat for the Ears and Hands

PURE, maker of the wildly popular Flip HD video camcorders is giving the radio a much needed upgrade. The PURE Sensia takes DAB (Digital Audio Broadcasting) and WiFi and brings them under one futuristic looking roof, the first radio to do so. Just turn on the Sensia and the WiFi will stream internet radio and podcasts from all over the web. In addition you can also tap into your computer or storage device and stream music to the Sensia. And if you need a little white noise to soothe your frazzled nerves,check out Pure Sounds "unique soundscapes created by PURE to stimulate, inspire and relax."

The Sensia also comes with a generous 5.7-inch, 640 x 480 pixel high res touchscreen display handy for navigating lists, shifting controls, and scrolling through all the widgets and apps. That's right, the Sensia has a bunch of PURE Apps including Facebook, Twitter, and Picasa, so you can stay connected to all your friends as you enjoy some tuneage. You can also check out station slideshows or album artwork upping your tactile enjoyment.

Dell Adamo XPS: Waiting with Bated Breath

Dell Adamo is back and slimmer than ever if you can believe that. The latest iteration of the laptop whose name means "to fall in love with" is incredible 9.99 mm thick and will quite possibly be the slimmest laptop on the market -- for now. Aside from that, little else is known about the Adamo XPS except that the starting price will be a whopping $2000, that the little beauty is still made from aluminum and using the heat from your finger, the lid will automatically open.

I guess we'; have to continue drooling over the images until tomorrow when Dell finally launches the latest in the Adamo series. Although it seems almost obvious that the laptop will be running Windows 7, the steep price tag pretty much guarantees that this won't be a mass market machine. Limited images and stats aside, what kind of features would a computer have to include to make you eager to fork over $2000?

Via Engadget

Cheat sheets galore for free, just print and go

Oh, boy, here's a treasure. TechPosters offers hundreds of printable cheat sheets for nearly any piece of software, and some hardware too.

For free.

Lots of this stuff is nerd nirvana, but there's plenty for lesser mortals too: everyday programs from Microsoft, Apple, Adobe, Dreamweaver, Photoshop, you name it. Also an incredibly deep trove of all things Google. You can even brush up on elderly classics like ASCII.

Look in the right-hand column for links to all this and more.

TechPosters says it's technical posters and cheats for IT guys. But apparently any visitor is automatically one of the guys.

T-Mobile lets loose glamor with the Sony Ericsson Equinox

T-Mobile adds more allure to its 3G phones with this latest from Sony Ericsson - the Sony Ericsson Equinox (earlier named T707). Otherwise a basic flip-phone in functionality, the Equinox carries some eye-catching bling to push itself to the limelight amongst the other established clamshell models in the market. First is the stylish exterior - after you update your T-Mobile favorites list with your caller friends' circle, the shell lights up to indicate the identity of the caller in one of the five available colors. Say "amber" for good friend Joe and "amethyst" for avoidable Erica. I say, a thumbs-up for people with good memory, and more confusion for those without. Other than that, the external shell also contains an 128 x 36 OLED screen that functions only when you get an incoming call.

If you didn't fall for that, here's the next - the phone flaunts a scratch-resistant 2.2-inch QVGA inner screen, a 3.2MP camera, stereo Bluetooth connectivity, GPS for navigation, and an FM radio. It uses motion sensing for some gesture control - to silence a call or an alarm without opening the device. The phone also supports picture messaging and the provision to directly upload videos to YouTube. Poser or not you decide, but don't say we didn't warn you. The Equinox is due to go on sale today (October 28th) in T-Mobile stores. The price is pegged at $50 with a 2-year contract agreement.

Via UnwiredView.

JVC’S new pocket camera, the PICSIO GC-FM1

About a week ago JVC launched its first pocket flash memory camera, the PICSIO GC-FM1. The PICSIO is cellphone-sized and comes in three funky colors, Blue Steel, Purple Passion and Black Ice. It’s small and portable and able to capture high quality stills and movies. The funky camera can shoot true eight-megapixel stills and 1080p Full HD video and thanks to its image stabilization that minimizes camera shake, your videos will maintain a good quality even when the 4X digital zoom is used. The recorded videos, stored on SD/SDHC memory cards , are saved as .MOV files and can therefore easily be shared without the need of any conversion.

PICSIO controls are easy and intuitive and the camera’s main functions can be selected using the dedicated buttons therefore avoiding to scroll through long menus. The camera charges via USB connection.

The PICSIO is available for $199.95, included in the price are a USB cable, an AV cable, hand strap and PC software loaded into the camera’s internal memory.

Sony S-Frame Prints Your Favorite Photos

Here's a digital photo frame I can actually live with. Enough with superfluous features like radio and weather reports. Sony's new all Sony DPP-F700 a.k.a. the S-Frame digital photo frame. The F700 is multitasking done right, combining a digital photo frame with a printer.

The 7-inch LCD can hold up to 2,000 images thanks to the 1GB of internal storage. There are also slots available for memory sticks, SD cards, and SDHC cards to name a few. Images are viewed in 600 x 400 resolution and can be adjusted to portrait or landscape. Photos can be edited via the frame including crop, enlarge, minimize, brightness, hue, and color adjustments. Photos can also be used to create a calendar, layout print, or slideshow.

Party Hard, Stay Safe Thanks to Lip Gloss

What's the tantamount rule for a girl's night out on the town? Never leave your drink unattended. For too long, women have been the victims of date rape by way of dosing drinks. It only takes seconds to transform your fun, fruity cocktail into a noxious concoction ala Snow White.

Britain-based cosmetics firm 2 Love My Lips is fighting back with their new line of lip gloss. Called "2LoveMy", this line of glosses comes with a drug testing kit. If you sip your drink and it tastes off or if you just don't trust the skeevy guy in the corner that insisted that it's on him, simply dip your fingers into the suspicious libation and rub it on the included pink testing strip. If the strip turns blue, then it's time to call security and your friends and give that creep the beatdown he deserves.

Available in five quality glosses including Sophisticated Coffee, Passionate Pink and Posh Gloss, "2LoveMy" glosses not only keeps the pervs at bay, it also promises to plump lips and freshen breath. Unfortunately, 2 Love My Lips is currently an U.K. exclusive, but the company is looking to expand to other country so hopefully it'll be jumping the pond soon.

Via Coolest Gadgets

Kiss the QOOQ: A New PC for the Kitchen

If you've ever had dreams of embracing your inner Julia Child a la "Julie & Julia", here's your chance. Thanks to a nifty new gadget from France, you can throw away all those tattered recipes and cookbooks.

The QOOQ (pronounced "cook"), is a kitchen computer that might be able to make cooking a pleasurable experience for those of us that are a little gun shy around the oven. QOOQ comes with video recipes as well as 500 preloaded dishes. And if that's not enough, users can sign up for a monthly subscription and have new recipes and sent to device. The digital recipe box can get internet access using WiFi or Ethernet. There's no web browser to speak of, but you can check the weather and update recipes as needed.

In addition to the recipes and videos, the QOOQ also serves as a meal planner and can help create a shopping list, so you don't off track with the impulse buying when you hit the grocery store. And when you need a little entertainment, QOOQ doubles as a digital picture frame and receives internet radio stations.

The 10.2-inch touchscreen tablet PC has a glass screen that makes for easy clean up as a precaution against those unexpected splashes and spills. Unfortunately, QOOQ is currently a French exclusive, but if there are plans to bring the device stateside, I'm sure it will sell like hotcakes (pun totally intended) to the burgeoning foodie movement.

Via Coolest Gadgets