Dave's Home

Is the New Video iPod Coming?

2006-03-23T14:08:00.000-05:00

This news is actually 2 days old (from CNN.COM) and we all heard this rumor since last year. But from one analyst who tracks the company said that the 60GB video iPod may be discontinued or replaced at the end of April. Is this means that Apple will come out the new model to replace the 60GB video iPod? I do think there is a new model at work but since Apple is always very good at keeping secret. Guess we will know the truth at the end of April.

New Sony MZ-RH1 Hi-MD Recorder

2006-03-23T13:51:00.000-05:00

So the MiniDisc is not dead. Sony Japan just announced the new Hi-MD model MZ-RH1. It will be available on April 21, 2006. This new model can upload non-Hi-MD audio via USB, also features 6 bans EQ and OLED display.

More info follow the link below
minidisc.org link

Sony Ericsson New W300i Music Phone

2006-02-28T14:30:00.000-05:00

The new W300i music phone from Sony Ericsson offer 256MB memory stick micro and USB cable for connecting to your PC, plus a stereo headset. I was supprised that Sony add bluetooth support for this model. It has monochrome external display and 128*160 color LCD screen inside. Of course you can change the cover too. I do like it's simple style, more info follow the link below.

Sony Ericsson W300i Page
W300i Official Site

Apple - iPod Hi-Fi is Here

2006-02-28T14:07:00.000-05:00

OK. This might be the biggest news today. The new iPod Hi-Fi is here. It delivers crystal clear, audiophile quality sound in a clean, compact design (at least that's what Apple said). It sells for $349 and is available right now at www.apple.com. By the way, you can use "D" battery or AC adapter to power this thing. Where is new video iPod anyway?

Official Apple Site
www.apple.com

Ugobe Pleo is coming

2006-02-07T20:49:00.000-05:00

We all know that Sony stops to make the Aibo Robot dog. But that won't stop other company to produce these robot pets. Pleo is "THE WORLD'S FIRST LIFE FORM". It features sensers for sight, sound, and touch. It can also learns from the environment. The best part is .... only $199 for you to own. Pleo should come out at Q3 of this year.

Check out their official site for more detail.
http://www.ugobe.com/pleo/index.html

M-Tune Headphone for iPod shuffle & nano

2006-02-07T20:42:00.000-05:00

From Akihabara News. RWC is coming out these headphones for both iPod shuffle and nano. You can direct insert your shuffle or nano into these headphones and enjoy the music. Maybe we will have a VR headset that you can insert video iPod soon.

Cube World Digital Stick People

2006-02-07T16:40:00.000-05:00

This is from ThinkGeek.com . These stick people will interact with each other. You can also play game with them. I have to say this sure looks like fun. $29.99 for set of 2. Anyone??

ThinkGeek.com Product Page
http://www.thinkgeek.com/geektoys/plush/7b24/

NASA's Stardust Space Probe

2006-01-13T15:14:00.000-05:00

After traveling 2.88 billion miles, The NASA's Stardust space probe will release the 100 lb. capsule carrying the samples of Comet Wild 2. If there is any problem or delay, scientists will have to wait up to another 4 years for Stardust to make another orbit around the sun. The Stardust should release the capsule at 1 a.m. ET on Sunday and the capsule will land on Utah around 4 hours later.

More info follow the link below
http://t2www.nasa.r3h.net/externalflash/stardust_front/index.html

Motorola H5 MINIBLUE Headset

2006-01-04T11:46:00.000-05:00

The new bluetooth headset from Motorola is really small. The special feature about this headset is it pick up your voice through the ear canal so even if you are in a noisy environment, your voice is still loud and clear. It will be available in the first half of 2006. More infomation follow the link below.

MINIBLUE Link
http://www.motorola.com/motoinfo/product/details/0,,133,00.html

Motorola ROKR E2

2006-01-03T16:53:00.000-05:00

The New Motorola ROKR E2 has some nice features compare with first generation. First, it features USB 2.0 connection, SD card slot, standard 3.5mm headset jack, 1.3MP digital camera, 2" 320*240 LCD screen can also playback video and also support bluetooth headphone. This might be the phone I really want. Check out the official site for more info.

Motorola E2 Link
http://www.motorola.com/motoinfo/product/details/0,,132,00.html

iRiver G10 Game Media Player?

2006-01-03T11:47:00.000-05:00

This is from Akihabara News. iRiver just announced the G10 for this year CES 2006. It's a player runs windows mobile 5 and will have both 4 and 8GB version. The screen will be 800*480 and this device will support 3D games. This might be the answer from iRiver to compete with PSP and GBA for the portable gaming market.

iKitty for your iPod nano

2005-12-29T15:49:00.000-05:00

Speck Products just come out the iKitty toy/case for iPod nano. It comes both black and white colors and MSRP is $34.95. You can pre-order from their website or you just want to check out more info. Speck Products also has lots of very special cases for your iPod or Smart Phone devices.

Speck Products Link
http://www.speckproducts.com/index.html

iPod Chair with Built in Speakers

2005-12-15T13:22:00.000-05:00

This is from I4U News. I actually saw this product in the Linens 'n Things retail store. I believe they carry 3 different colors of choice and price is about $20 something (not really sure at this point). This is a fun product for your iPod player. I am pretty sure there are other retailers sell this product too in the US. By the way, can you find out where the speakers are?

I4U News Link
http://www.i4u.com/article4754.html

iRobot Scooba Floor Washing Robot

2005-12-15T13:11:00.000-05:00

Since there is already one news for iRobot today. The Scooba is the newest member from the iRobot. This floor washing robot can clean your hard floor and for $399, you will never have to mop again. I haven't seen this model in any of retail store. It's directly from iRobot online store.

More info follow the link below
http://www.irobot.com/index.cfm

Costume for Your iRobot Roomba

2005-12-15T12:08:00.000-05:00

Check out these funny costumes for your Roomba vacuum! I think this is a good idea to have some personal touch with it. There are many choices to choose from or you may just create one by yourself. I am thinking to have a gundam costume for my Roomba at home.

Check out their official link
http://www.myroombud.com/

XBOX 360 Not so Hot in Japan

2005-12-13T15:44:00.000-05:00

From CNN News. The XBOX 360 just started selling in Japan last Saturday. Microsoft only sold 62,135 machines over the weekend, only 39% of the total consoles they have in stock there. I was also supprised that original XBOX only have 5% of the whole video game market there. 80% of the market belongs to Sony. Japan is the second largest video game market in the world. Guess Microsoft should work on more game titles over there if they want to gain their market share or maybe they should just move all those XBOX 360 back to US. Microsoft plan to sell 1 million units in Japan by mid-2006. Well, I can only say --- good luck for that!

£470 for a photo of XBOX 360

2005-12-12T14:27:00.000-05:00

This is from The Register. Will you be paying £470 for a photo of XBX 360? It's very clear that this guy want you to think that you are getting a real XBOX 360 package, but he did put a short sentence in the description said that this is for a picture of it. Check out the register website to see if you can find where he put that sentence. By the way, I believe eBay already took this auction down and the winner also left negative feedback for this seller... of course!

The Register Link
http://www.theregister.com/2005/12/08/xbox_photo_auction/

NEC New Flexible Battery

2005-12-08T14:57:00.000-05:00

NEC just announced the new flexible battery, only 0.3 mm thick and can be recharged in 30 seconds. This will be great news for lots of devices. I will say battery is always an major issue for most of the consumer products. Hope this battery can come to market soon.

From Akihabara News.
http://www.akihabaranews.com/en/news-10794-0.3mm+thick+flexible+battery.html

Creative New Zen Vision Media Player

2005-12-07T14:10:00.000-05:00

Creative just announce the new media player Zen Vision. I would say it looks a lot like 5G video iPod. It features 2.5" LCD screen (320*240) with 30GB HD, also support MP3, WMA, WAV, JPEG, MPEG-1/2/4, WMV, DivX, Xvid.... format. Battery life is about 11 hours for music, 4 hours for video playback. Check out Creative site for more info.

Creative Japan Site
http://jp.creative.com/corporate/pressroom/releases/welcome.asp?pid=12272

Apple iTunes Now Offer NBC, USA and SciFi Channel Download

2005-12-06T12:45:00.000-05:00

Wow. This sure is good news for video iPod owners. Apple iTunes now offer NBC, USA Network and SciFi channel TV shows. I just check out iTunes musc store and it seems like the server is kind of busy at this moment. Check out www.apple.com for more info.

ACTROID -- Life Size Robot

2005-12-01T15:51:00.000-05:00

This is from Akihabara News. This ACTROID is a life size robot which looks like a real person. She cannot move though (glued to the floor... Thanks God). I am really wondering where this is going. We may see lots of these kind of robots walk on the street in the near future. Hmmm... What else she can do besides scaring people? More pictures follow the link below.

http://www.akihabaranews.com/en/news-10744-Robot+or+Human%3F+Here%27s+ACTROID.html

Seiko New Spectrum SVRD001 Watch

2005-12-01T15:35:00.000-05:00

This is not just some designer's watch. The new Seiko Spectrum SVRD001 watch is the first watch to use e-paper technology. The screen is flexible. There will be only 500 watch available. More info follow the link below.

Seiko Link
http://www.seiko-watch.co.jp/press/contents.asp?id=74AFC5E2-2241-402B-96FA-202E42DA2E50

PSP New Firmware 2.6 is Out

2005-11-29T12:04:00.000-05:00

Sony just released the new firmware 2.6 for PSP. There are some new features this time. Including RSS Feeds and WMA support. The new firmware also update the browser to support Chinese. Check out Sony PSP site for more info.

Sony Link
http://www.us.playstation.com/psp.aspx?id=SoftwareUpdate

$2K for a XBOX 360?

2005-11-22T10:58:00.000-05:00

Today is the official release for the XBOX 360. I went to the local bestbuy store and there are like at least 60 to 70 people waiting outside (1 hour before the store was open). The craziest thing is most XBOX 360 package on ebay are running at least $1,000 and some of them are even close at almost $2,000. I know this is a great machine but 4 or 5 times of the original price. That's just too much.

MVP-150 -- PMP & GPS System

2005-11-21T14:10:00.000-05:00

From Akihabara News. The Korean company Sitec System come out this nice device. The MVP-150 runs WinCE 5.0 system, with 4.0 touch screen and 20GB HD. It support DivX, XviD, AVI, ASF, MPEG4, WMV7, 8, 9 video format and MP3, plus GPS function. Check out the site below for more pictures.

PMPInside Link
http://www.pmpinside.com/bbs/view.php?id=news&no=402

iRiver U10 Review

2005-11-17T13:49:00.000-05:00

This is from I4U News. Everything USB has this review for the U10 media player from iRiver. I really like this device especially the beautiful screen. The only downside is the limit of memory size (512MB and 1GB). I find out that my local bestbuy store is already sell this player (online also). Check the review if you are interested!

Everything USB U10 Review link
http://www.everythingusb.com/iriver_u10_1gb.html

Albert Hubo

2005-11-17T13:09:00.000-05:00

This is the picture of Albert Hubo -- The robot with the face of Albert Einstein. This robot can walk and speak with facial expressions (with 30 motors to simulate the facial expressions). I am wondering who they want to create next?

IO-DATA ToteBag 8GB USB Drive

2005-11-16T12:29:00.000-05:00

IO-DATA comes out this 8GB ToteBag USB key drive. The size of this thing is 21.0(W) * 78.0(D) * 13.5(H)mm. You can check out their official site for more pictures & detail. The price is over $1,000, I guess I will wait for a while.

Link
http://www.iodata.jp/prod/usbmemory/totebag/2005/tb-gr/index.htm

Sony Ericsson New Z300a Clamshell Phone

2005-11-14T15:19:00.000-05:00

Sony Ericsson new Z300a mobile phone actually a lot like Z200 phone. It also come with that traditional clock on the cover and style-up cover can be changed for both front and back. It's 2 band (850 and 1800) GSM phone for the US and should be available at the end of this year.

Tunewear New Tetran Headphones Organizer

2005-11-14T14:47:00.000-05:00

Look at these cute tetran from Tunewear. These are headphones (earphones or anything with cable) organizer. You can actually put earphones into their mouth and put cable around their body. I believe this is a good idea, now I just need something less cute so I can really use.

Check out their site for more pictures
http://www.tunewear.com/japanese/product/tetran/index.html

Sharp New MP3 Player

2005-11-14T14:37:00.000-05:00

From Akihabara News. Sharp just come out these new MP3 player with shockproof which can be dropped from 140cm of height. This player come with aluminum metal case and have both version MP-S200 (512MB) and MP-S300 (1GB). They also have a clip built-in so you can put them everywhere.

Sharp Official Site
http://www.sharp.co.jp/corporate/news/051114-a.html

Nipro Stressometer

2005-11-10T11:21:00.000-05:00

OK, I have no idea if this thing can work or not. From Akihabara News. This thing suppose to check your stress level. You first put the tester in your mouth then insert into this machine & it will tell you that your level of stress. Maybe we should all have one in the office and check daily!

Akihabara News Link
http://www.akihabaranews.com/en/news-10612-Stressometer...+for+the+stressed+out+ones.html

Olympus Stop MP3 Player Production

2005-11-10T11:11:00.000-05:00

From I4U News. Olympus decides to stop MP3 players production (m:robe line, picture left). I should know when I saw this player on sale at local radio shack store for $99 (maybe some of them still have them in stock). Although the review for these players are not that good but they do look interesting though.

Samsung New Slim Phones Collection

2005-11-08T12:18:00.000-05:00

From Akihabara News. Samsung has 5 new slim phones coming out. The SGH-Z510 and SGH-Z540 are 3G W-CDMA phones, the SGH-D800, SGH-D820 and SGH-P300 are GSM/GPRS. I really like the Slim card style that one (the middle one, SGH-P300). They all have pretty impressive features. Check out Samsung website for more info on these phones.

Samsung Link
http://www.samsung.co.kr/news/press_read_ns.jsp?news_seqNum=4418

Belkin Flip and Kickstand Case Review is Up

2005-11-08T11:44:00.000-05:00

iLounge.com is already review two new cases for 5G video iPod from Belkin. This is quick since the only case I can find right now is skincase. They both looks nice though and the price is right ($30 each, although I hope something like $20). It's good to check out iLounge for completed review for both cases.

iLounge Link
http://www.ilounge.com/index.php/reviews/comments/belkin-flip-and-kickstand-leather-cases-for-5g-ipod/

Liquidmetal -- Twice the Strength of Titanium

2005-11-04T11:15:00.000-05:00

From NASA. The newest titanium cruzer USB flash drive features the liquidmetal alloy for its case. With more than twice the strength of titanium, this might be the strongest case of flash drive ever. I was supprised to know this news from NASA website. This liquidmetal thing might just be what apple need right now for their new iPod -- withstands scratching.

Check out NASA website for more space news
http://www.nasa.gov/vision/earth/technologies/liquidmetal.html

Sony New Media Manager for PSP

2005-11-02T12:05:00.000-05:00

Guess this is the answer for video iPod from Sony. I really think Sony should come out with this software long time ago & should be free also. The new media manager cost $19.99 if you purchased the download version. Sony is running a promotion now for boxed version (including USB cabe and 5 free songs download) with $5 off. Check out the lfficial site for more info.

PSP Media Manager Link
http://www.sonymediasoftware.com/default.asp

Apple Sells 1 Million Videos in Less than 20 Days

2005-10-31T12:59:00.000-05:00

Less than 20 days? That's pretty quick for 1 million video, especially not many choices over there. What if you can actually buy and download all kind of TV shows and movies? I think Apple is getting there. Although this is not a good news at all for all other digital media player out there (like Sony, Creative, iRiver...). Anyway, Apple just announced today that they sells 1 million videos since 10/12.

Apple News Link
http://www.apple.com/pr/library/2005/oct/31itms.html

USB Heating Gloves

2005-10-31T12:49:00.000-05:00

This is from Akihabara News. Almost everything now come with USB powered, even the heating gloves. Maybe all the car maker should put the standard USB power port built-in (al least 4 ports) so it will be easiler for us to connect all these devices.

Link
http://www.thanko.jp/usbgloves/index.html

The International Space Station Milestone

2005-10-28T16:13:00.000-04:00

The International Space Station just celebrate 5th anniversary. The whole project is shared with 16 nations and cost of ISS may well exceed $100 billion.

"First envisioned in the 1980s, the 16-nation project has been repeatedly scaled down as costs rose. At this point, NASA figures it will take 18 shuttle flights -- down from 28 -- to complete construction." -- From CNN News

I watched the IMAX DVD of ISS not long time ago. The view from ISS is just amazing. Maybe NASA should consider built a ISH (International Space Hotel) or something.

Handwriting Abilities Coming to Nintendo DS

2005-10-27T15:11:00.000-04:00

Nintendo and Zi Corporation will bring Decuma handwriting technology to DS handheld gaming system. This handwriting system support Chinese, Japanese and English. This also will be a big news for all game developers because this sure will help to have some new ideas for developing new games.

Sanyo New Xacti C6 Digital Camcorder

2005-10-27T14:42:00.000-04:00

This is from infosync news. The Xacti C6 is the newest line of hybrid device from Sanyo. C6 offers 6MP still image and can record 640*480 VGA 30FPS MPEG4 video plus 5x optical zoom all in this tiny 108 x 68 x 23 mm and 145 g body. It also has 2" 210K pixel LCD viewfinder and SD slot. To be available at Europe from November 2005.

Airpouf Vacuum Cleaner

2005-10-26T13:41:00.000-04:00

I first saw this from I4U News. What's so special about this vacuum cleaner? It's also a chair for you to sit. You know how difficult it is to find a place for hiding your vacuum cleaner, now you can just leave it in your room. Although I will feel kind of strange to sit on something full of dirt inside. By the way, this vacuum is designed by Lorenzo Damiani.

Japan TOTO Toilet with MP3 Player

2005-10-26T13:31:00.000-04:00

This is from Akihabara News. Only from Japan, this toilet from TOTO has some special features. Like the seat is raised automatically and heated. There is also a mp3 player with SD card slot. Don't be afraid, the mp3 player is not built-in to the toilet but in the control system on the wall. Check out their official site for more info.

TOTO Link
http://www.toto.co.jp/products/toilet/t00004/03.htm

Logitech EasyFit Boom Headset

2005-10-24T16:33:00.000-04:00

This new headset is from Logitech. The EasyFit boom headset features noise canceling boom microphone plus windstop technology provides high-quality sound. It also has call/answer button built-in. Price is $29.99.
More info follow the link below.

Logitech Product Page
http://www.logitech.com/index.cfm/products/details/US/EN,CRID=2190,CONTENTID=10921

SolidAlliance 256MB Sake USB Drive

2005-10-24T16:21:00.000-04:00

I just love these devices. After SushiDisk and FoodDisk, now SolidAlliance come out this 256MB Sake USB Drive. Be sure to check out their store to see all the collection.

Link
http://sa-store.com/

Nobby -- The Alarm Clock

2005-10-21T00:12:00.000-04:00

OK, I really like this clock even though I don't use alarm clock at all. This is another interesting product from Sharper Image. Nobby will actually talk to you to wake you up (like "Rise and shine, it's time to get up!") and the best part is if you want to stop these wake-up calls, you get to literally wring your alarm clock's neck!

I have to try this thing out when I have time. There is also a tiny LCD clock built-in. $29.95 is not bad at all.

More detail follow the link below
http://www.sharperimage.com/us/en/catalog/product/pcatid__22/catid__676889383/sku__ZE001

Alive Chimpanzee is Available Now -- Almost

2005-10-21T00:00:00.000-04:00

I just receive the new catalog from Sharper Image. They do have some really interesting new stuffs this time. First, they seem to have the Roposapien V2 special edition already (for $249 though). They also have the alive chimpanzee.. well, pre-order at this point. I remember this robot at the beginning of this year. For $149, it seems reasonable for a robot head to scare all your friends. More info follow the link below.

Sharper Image Link
http://www.sharperimage.com/us/en/catalog/product/pcatid__22/catid__676889383/sku__WW258

Sony New PSP GIGA PACK

2005-10-20T12:18:00.000-04:00

OK, I really don't understand these pack thing. Sony Japan just come out this PSP GIGA PACK. They come for both white and black version PSP with 1 GB memory stick pro duo and a nice basic stand for a whole package. Although the price is about $250 which is not bad for the whole thing. They should have more color choice though.

Amazon is Taking Preorder for Robosapien V2

2005-10-20T12:05:00.000-04:00

Sorry that I haven't posted anything in the past 2 days. Amazon is taking pre-order now for the Robosapien V2. I always thought the Robosapien V2 should be available before this holiday shopping season. The price for pre-order is $229.99. The second generation of Robosapien is much improved, it can react to its surroundings and of course, it can sit now.

Amazon Link
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B0007SXAI4/002-3878304-5850406

Sony Ericsson New Home Audio System MDS-70

2005-10-17T14:03:00.000-04:00

Finally there is a speaker system not specially designed for iPod or Creative. The new MDS-70 speaker system is for use with Sony Ericsson walkman phone. It has Surround Mode by Digital signal processor (DSP) and can also charge your phone at the same time.

Sony Ericsson New W900i Walkman Phone

2005-10-17T13:53:00.000-04:00

Here comes another walkman phone from Sony Ericsson. The W900i with built-in 2MP digital camera and With 470 MB internal memory plus up to 2GB expandable memory. 320*240 LCD screen support up to 262,144 color. Guess music phone with least 2MP camera built-in is what's next.

The New Hybrid Fuel-Cell Car from Toyota -- Fine-X

2005-10-14T15:29:00.000-04:00

From MobileMag.com. The new fuel-cell Hybrid car from Toyota is schedule to display on 22nd of October at the International Convention Complex. This car has some special features like on-the-spot rotation (see picture) and four-wheel independent drive. I do like the design of this car. More info follow the link below.

MobileMag Link
http://www.mobilemag.com/content/100/313/C4833/

New Sony Ericsson P990 Review

2005-10-14T15:16:00.000-04:00

Mobile-review.com has the new sony ericsson P990 review with lots of pictures there. The new model add 2MP digital camera and better display and keyboard. Although there is no standand headphone output this time. If you are interested in this phone then this review is for you.

Link
http://www.mobile-review.com/review/sonyericsson-p990-en.shtml

Sony New Firmware 2.5 for PSP is Released

2005-10-13T11:36:00.000-04:00

From I4U News. Sony Japan just released the new firmware 2.5 for PSP. This new released add the location free TV player and some other improvements. This update is for the Japanese model. I have to add the warnning from Sony Japan below if you are thinking to update for a US PSP.

CAUTION: This update is only for customers who obtained PSP (PlayStation Portable) for Japan which model number is PSP-1000 or PSP-1000 K or PSP-1000 KCW. Upon completion of preparing, we will announce update information for the other countries/areas customers via SCE Group Web Site or other channels . For these customers who obtained PSP in the other countries/areas, please DO NOT update PSP through this web site. There are no guarantee of proper operation of the other PSP.

Link
http://www.playstation.jp/psp/update/ud_01.html

New Palm TX and Z22 PDA

2005-10-12T15:03:00.000-04:00

Because all these apple news, I almost forgot that Palm also come out 2 new models today. The new Palm TX and new Palm Z22 handheld PDA. The TX come with everything like built-in WiFi and Bluetooth, 128MB memory, Intel 312 MHz ARM-based processor, 320 x 480 transflective TFT touchscreen display. The Z22 on the other hand is their new low-end model. Come with 200 MHz ARM-based processor, 32MB memory, 160 x 160 color touchscreen display. Price is $299 for the TX and $99 for the Z22. More info follow the link below.

Palm Product Page
http://www.palm.com/us/products/handhelds/tx/

New iTunes 6 -- Now You Can Buy Video Too Plus New iPod Photo

2005-10-12T14:23:00.000-04:00

You can buy new TV show from iTunes store. It's $1.99 per show. There are shows like Desperate housewives and Lost from ABC and music video. You can watch them on PC or your iPod. They are copyright protected by Fairplay. I just check apple.com and they already updated the new iPod info. The new iPod have 30GB and 60GB both models. They are lighter and thinner this time. Check them out!

Apple Link
www.apple.com

New iPod -- Now with New Screen & Video

2005-10-12T13:57:00.000-04:00

The new iPod just announced. Now with 2.5-inch display, 320 x 240 resolution, MPEG-4 support, and video out. The Apple online store is now updating the new info. The picture show at left is from iLounge.com. I will update the new picture once it's available. By the way, there is also the new iMac coming out.

New Sony Bean MP3 Walkman is Available Now

2005-10-11T12:39:00.000-04:00

I was supprised that the new Sony bean MP3 player is available for purchase in local bestbuy store this week. There are 2 model (512MB white and 1GB black) to choose from. Price is $119 and $149. This is an interesting little device. I am thinking to go to the local bestbuy store to check out this player.

Bestbuy Product Page
http://www.bestbuy.com/site//olspage.jsp?id=pcmcat72000050024&type=category

We Have a Winner -- the Grand Challenge

2005-10-10T13:10:00.000-04:00

From CNN News -- A souped-up VW Touareg, designed by Stanford University, zipped through the course in six hours and 53 minutes Sunday, using only its computer brain and sensors to navigate rough and twisting desert and mountain trails.
The Grand Challenge which no one successful completed last year. Pentagon double the prize this year to 2 million dollars. Guess it should not take long for all these driverless car running on the road.

PRIE TUNETAG I.D. -- ID Case for iPod nano

2005-10-10T11:23:00.000-04:00

If you need to wear your ID while you are working and have an iPod nano at the same time. The PRIE TUNETAG I.D. is sure the best case for you. You can also use this case for your credit card or business card. Check out the site for more info.

Product Page
http://www.tunewear.com/english/product/tunetag_id/index.html

New Sony Ericsson P990i Smart Phone

2005-10-10T11:08:00.000-04:00

It's finally out. The new sony ericsson P990i mobile phone pack with some impressive features, like Symbian OS 9.1 and 2 megapixel digital camera with video also with media player, FM, bluetooth, WiFi, Java, memory stick pro duo support plus many many more. It also has a flip-down keyboard. You have to visit the sony ericsson product page to see all the detail.

Product Page
http://www.sonyericsson.com/spg.jsp?cc=global&lc=en&amp;amp;ver=4001&template=pp1_1_1&zone=pp&lm=pp1&pid=10336

Oakley THUMP 2 -- Digital Music Eyewear

2005-10-07T15:50:00.000-04:00

The second generation of Oakley digital music eyewear -- THUMP 2 is available for pre-order now. With the new design (Gascan Eyewear) and 3 different storage option (256/512/1GB) also with better earphone this time. Price start from $299 to $449 for 1GB model. Check out their product page to see more pictures.

Oakley Product Page
http://oakley.com/o/o2794d/p8743

First Trojan for PSP Found

2005-10-07T15:30:00.000-04:00

From infosyncworld.com. Malware specialist Symantec has identified the first trojan to target Sony's PSP. This Trojan.PSPBrick deletes four vital system files required for the PSP to boot, causing the PSP to become unusable. But this look like only affect those PSP which can run non-signed code on the device.

ARCHOS Gmini 402 Pocket Multimedia Center

2005-10-07T10:47:00.000-04:00

Here comes the new pocket multimedia center Gmini 402 from Archos. Archos add some new features this time, like the 1.2MP digital camera & camcorder function and of course the usual 20GB HD built-in. This player also support MPEG-4, WMV format, USB host port so you can direct transfer pictures from your digital camera plus auto sync function with your PC. You can play Mophun games on its 2.2" LCD screen or on your TV. Check out Archos website to see more pictures and info of this great device.

Archos Product Page
http://www.archos.com/products/gmini_402_cam/features.html

Sony New Memory Stick Micro (M2)

2005-10-04T13:27:00.000-04:00

Just how many memory card format we have right now in the market? We have SD, MMC, CF, MS, MS Pro, MS Duo, MS Pro Duo, XD, SM, TF..... Guess that's still not enough. Sony and Sandisk just announced the development of the "Memory Stick Micro" format yesterday. This new format is about one-quarter the size of "Memory Stick PRO Duo" media. The maximum capacity is 32GB. This new memory stick micro will be available in the first half of next year.

CEATEC 2005 -- 3D Floating Vision Technology from Pioneer

2005-10-04T13:12:00.000-04:00

From I4U News. Pioneer developed the first 3D Floating Vision product for commercial basis. Haruka is a virtual receptionist through 3D image. She can talk to you when you close by her desk like "My name is HARUKA, I am your guide". Now we just need a life size Haruka. Maybe next year CEATEC.

Pioneer Haruka site
http://www.paisei.co.jp/products/3d/index.html

New Fashion Mouse from Elecom

2005-10-03T11:51:00.000-04:00

From Akihabara News. The Japanese firm Elecom come out the new PALVO series mouse. With many different color combinations. These mouses have 800 dpi and offer both USB and PS2 connectors. Check out their site to see all the selection.

Elecom official link
http://www.elecom.co.jp/news/200510/palvo/index.html

Sony New DSC-N1 Digital Camera

2005-10-03T11:38:00.000-04:00

Sony just announces the new DSC-N1 digital camera. This camera has some uniq features like large 3.0" LCD touch-screen plus aluminium body that’s only 22.7mm slim, 8.1 Megapixel Super HAD CCD and of course 3x Optical Zoom lens. Battery life up to 300 shots per charge. It will be available in November 2005.

Sony PSP 2.01 Firmware for Japan Model is Here

2005-10-03T10:32:00.000-04:00

This is from i4u news. Sony just release the new firmware 2.01 for Japanese PSP model. It seems like no special feature added this time. I guess Sony just try to fix the newest hack issue. I will wait for next update. Please read the warning below from Sony if you are thinking to update.

" CAUTION: This update is only for customers who obtained PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) for Japan which model number is PSP-1000 or PSP-1000 K or PSP-1000 KCW. Upon completion of preparing, we will announce update information for the other countries/areas customers via SCE Group Web Site or other channels . For these customers who obtained PSP® in the other countries/areas, please DO NOT update PSP® through this web site. There are no guarantee of proper operation of the other PSP®." -- from Sony Japan PSP site.

Sony Japan download site
http://www.playstation.jp/psp/update/ud_01.html

Finger Mouse From Greenhouse Japan

2005-09-28T12:03:00.000-04:00

From Akihabara News. This seems like a nice mouse for laptop. The finger mouse from Greenhouse is really tiny. Only 24.5x85.0x19.0 mm, weighs 45g with USB connection and 800 dpi.

Official Link
http://www.green-house.co.jp/news/2005/r0928a.html

Scientists Have Photographed Giant Squid for the First Time

2005-09-28T11:09:00.000-04:00

This is from CNN News. For the first time ever, Japanese scientists have photographed a live giant squid in the deep sea.

--"We believe this is the first time a grown giant squid has been captured on camera in its natural habitat," said Kyoichi Mori, a marine researcher who co-authored a piece on the finding in the Royal Society Journal, a leading British biological publication. -- CNN News

This giant squid is about 8-meter (25-foot) long and photographed at 900 meters deep off the coast of Japan's Bonin islands. More info follow the link below.

CNN News
http://www.cnn.com/2005/WORLD/asiapcf/09/27/japan.squid.ap/index.html

Apple Responds iPod nano screen problems

2005-09-28T10:50:00.000-04:00

After many users report iPod nano screen problems. Apple finally responded to these complaints.

--“This is a real but minor issue involving a vendor quality problem in a small number of units,” Apple said in a statement, referring to the reports of seemingly unprovoked nano screen breakage. “Our figures show this issue has affected less than 1/10 of 1 percent of the total iPod nano units that we’ve shipped. It is not a design issue.” The company said affected customers should contact Apple to arrange for a free replacement unit. -- iLounge.com

Also there are many people complaint that nano screen gets scratched easily. Apple suggest these concerned customers to use nano case to protect their player.

Creative New WebCam Live Motion

2005-09-27T14:49:00.000-04:00

This is an interesting looking device. The new WebCam Live Motion from Creative offer more than just regular webcam. First, it moves as you move -- with automatic pan and tilt for an wide 200° horizontal and 105° vertical view. It also use CCD sensor and USB 2.0 connection.

Creative WebCam Live Site
http://www.creative.com/products/product.asp?category=218&subcategory=219&product=13979

Casio New Heart Rate Monitor Watch

2005-09-27T14:41:00.000-04:00

Casio new heart rate monitor watch sure looks uniq. There are 2 models to choose from (CHR-200J has 300 lap memory and CHR-100J has 200 lap memory). Of course there are other sport watch function. More info follow the link below.

Casio Site
http://www.casio.co.jp/flash/0508/2_1_d.html

The Grand Challenge of Robot Race is Ready

2005-09-26T14:39:00.000-04:00

From CNN news. Remember last year's race? The 1 million prize for the grand challenge but no one actualy finish the whole race. This year's prize is already raise to 2 million.

"On Wednesday, 40 teams and three alternates compete for a spot in the October 8 race during the semifinals at the California Speedway in Fontana.

The vehicles must negotiate a 2-mile stretch of the track using on-board computers, global positioning satellites and various lasers and radar. The top 20 performers will advance to the final starting line."

Let's hope we will have a winner this time.

CNN Link
http://www.cnn.com/2005/TECH/science/09/26/robotrace.ap/index.html

New Sanyo MP3 Player

2005-09-26T14:31:00.000-04:00

Ready for a new MP3 player? This is from Akihabara News. Sanyo just announced 3 new models of MP3 player. The DMP-M600 (512MB) and M700 (1GB) come with different colors (actually 2 colors for M700 and 5 colors for M600). Connected through USB and have battery life for 10 hours. This player really look like Sony wired remote for those walkman.

Motorola New RAZR V3x Revealed

2005-09-26T14:21:00.000-04:00

I am just wondering how many phones got revealed today. This is from MobileMag.com. Motorola just revealed the details of the new RAZR V3x phone. The features includes 2MP digital camera (it looks like 2MP is standard for all the new phones right now) with 8x zoom and VGA camera for 2-way video calling, bluetooth, transflash memory card slot, supports AAC+, MPEG4, WMV, WMA and MP3 formats. This phone will be available at the end of this year.

New Nokia 3250 Music Smartphone

2005-09-26T11:36:00.000-04:00

Nokia just unveiled the new 3250 music phone with a swivel mounted 2 Megapixel camera. This phone use microSD card as storage also with dedicated music keys. It support MP3, WMA, M4A and eAAC+ formats, includes bluetooth and FM radio. The retail price is €350 EUR and expect to be available in the first quarter 2006.

More info from infosyncworld
http://www.infosyncworld.com/news/n/6182.html

PQI mPack P600 Pocket Theater

2005-09-26T10:54:00.000-04:00

mPack P600 is the new pocket theater from PQI. First, it support MPEG1/2/4, XviD, WMV and ASF video format and MP3 CBR/VBR, AC3, AAC, WAV, OGG audio format. With 3hours (Video) or 5 hours (Audio) battery life plus 4.0" Wide TFT LCD, 480 x 272(WQVGA) display. This sure looks a great device, I am just wondering where I can get one.

Official Site Link
http://www.pqi.com.tw/product2.asp?oid=8&cate1=8&proid=36

Human Colony on Mars within 20 years?

2005-09-22T15:59:00.000-04:00

From CNN news. A newly formed company name 4Frontiers Corp. is planning to create a human colony on Mars within 20 years. Mark Homnick, the CEO of the company says he already raised "a couple million" dollars. They are thinking to raise $25 million from investors. It look like they are really serious about this mission. More info follow the link below.

CNN News
http://www.cnn.com/2005/TECH/space/09/19/red.planet.inc.ap/index.html

New Music Phone from Virgin Mobile

2005-09-22T15:14:00.000-04:00

I first saw this news from Phone Scoop. It seems like everyone is trying to get into this music phone market. Virgin Mobile just come out the Slider Sonic music phone. This phone features 1.9" color display, VGA camera, video recorder and playback, MP3 and WMA support, transflash memory card slot and speakerphone. Price is $249.99.

Virgin Mobile Page
http://www.virginmobileusa.com/catalog/catalog.do

South Korea to Build Combat Robot

2005-09-22T10:52:00.000-04:00

Now this is interesting news. South Korea's Defense and communications technicians will develop a combat robot to fight on the battlefield. This project will cost $32.4 million to develop the horse-like robot by 2011. Guess it won't be long to see these combat robot walking on the street. More info follow the link below.

The Korea Times
http://times.hankooki.com/lpage/nation/200509/kt2005092118400211960.htm

NEC New Camera Phone -- World Thinnest

2005-09-21T16:10:00.000-04:00

The new ultra-thin mobile phone from NEC is sure a beauty -- only 11.9 mm when it's folded (Motorola RAZA is about 23 mm when folded). It has 1.9" color LCD screen, bluetooth and 1.3MP digital camera.

NEC Official Site
http://www.nec.co.jp/press/ja/0509/2101.html

LG VX9800 Multimedia Phone

2005-09-20T12:32:00.000-04:00

This is the phone I really like. The new LG VX9800 wireless multimedia phone for Verizon come with some really impressive features like support V CAST and MP3, Bluetooth, built-in stereo speakers, full QWERTY keyboard, mini SD card slot, 1.3MP digital camera with flash and color screen for both internal and external. You can see the demo from Verizon site through the link below.

Link
http://www.verizonwireless.com/b2c/splash/splash.jsp?v=5

LG V-R4000 Robot Vacuum

2005-09-20T12:18:00.000-04:00

LG also has a cleaning robot vacuum V-R4000. It offers wellness-oriented micro filters, long-life battery and of course, automatic driving. I don't think this vacuum will ever come to US (correct me if I am wrong) but it does look like a nice device.

Toshiba New gigabeat X30 MP3 Player

2005-09-20T11:53:00.000-04:00

Time for a new MP3 player? Toshiba just come out the new gigabeat X30 MP3 player. X30 use 1.8" 30GB HD and 2.4" 320*240 color screen plus support MP3/WMA format with USB2.0 connection. Battery life is about 16 hours.

More info follow the link below
http://www.watch.impress.co.jp/av/docs/20050920/toshiba.htm

Toshiba Fuel Cell Powered MP3 Player

2005-09-16T11:22:00.000-04:00

From Akihabara News. Toshiba just presented 2 fuel cell powered MP3 player at CEATEC JAPAN. The battery life for the flash player (picture left) will be 35 hours and 60 hours for the HD model. These are just prototypes. We have to wait until 2007 to see these fuel cell powered products on sale.

The New Nintendo's Revolution Controller

2005-09-16T10:32:00.000-04:00

From IGN.com News. This is the new controller for the Nintendo's revolution (finally something new for a change). There are some new features look pretty interesting. First, there is 3D pointing (builtin sensors knows when you move up, down, left or right) and tilt sensitive, plus wireless (guess that's the basic feature for all next generation game system). Guess I will have to start saving money now.

Panasonic SDR-S100 Digital Camcorder

2005-09-15T15:34:00.000-04:00

Panasonic just announced the world smallest 3CCD digital camcorder. Just look at the size of this thing. The S100 record video as MPEG2 format and use SD card. There is also another model SDR_S300 which is black color.

Official Site
http://panasonic.jp/dvc/s100-s300/3ccd.html

Gillette Fusion -- Five-Bladed Razor

2005-09-14T15:54:00.000-04:00

First there was 3-bladed razor (Gillette Mach3), then there was 4-bladed razor from Schick called Quattro. Gillette just launched the first 5-bladed razor Fusion and Fusion Power. Both will be available in North America during the first quarter of 2006. Price will be $9.99 and $11.99. I cannot wait for Schick to come out the 6-bladed razor.

From ABC News
http://abcnews.go.com/Business/wireStory?id=1125409

Miracle Mouse -- Can Grow Back Lost Limbs

2005-09-14T15:00:00.000-04:00

This is from Times online. A miracle mouse which can regenerate its own organs has been discovered by scientists. Ellen Heber-Katz, professor of immunology at the Wistar Institute is still researching their exact functions.

"We have experimented with amputating or damaging several different organs, such as the heart, toes, tail and ears, and just watched them regrow," she said. "It is quite remarkable. The only organ that did not grow back was the brain."

The really interesting part is when they injected liver cells from these miracle mouses into ordinary mouse, they too gained the power of regeneration. By the way, the picture above is just a normal mouse.

More info foloow the link below
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/printFriendly/0,,1-210-1754008-210,00.html

IPEVO free.1 -- Skype Phone

2005-09-14T12:41:00.000-04:00

IPEVO just announced their first product -- free.1 handset for Skype. According to PChome Online from Taiwan, IPEVO is the first company to only design and produce hardware for the Skype. The free.1 handset come with "S" key to launch Skype software and come in 2 colors. Price is about $25.

ePrice News link
http://www.eprice.com.tw/news/?news_id=3342

Sony New DSC-M2 Digital Camera

2005-09-13T10:45:00.000-04:00

OK, I am still waiting for M1 to drop the price and Sony just announces the new Cyber-shot M2 digital camera. The Cyber-shot M2 features 5.1 Megapixel Super HAD CCD and 2.5 inch Hybrid LCD screen, Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar folded-path 3x Optical Zoom lens. Plus of course, a silver aluminium body. This camera also has a stereo microphone, a first for a Sony digital camera. Should come out in November (Europe).

Body Part Bread From Thailand

2005-09-12T13:03:00.000-04:00

This is actually the news from last week. As you can see from the picture of left, Kittiwatsu Unarom, an 28 year old arts student in Thailand decides to bake some body part bread for a change (her family own this bakery, of course). I am just wondering who would buy these .....

IBM Super Fast Infoprint 4100 Printer

2005-09-12T12:54:00.000-04:00

Need to print a book in less than a minute? Then this is your choice. IBM launches the Infoprint 4100 printer can print 330 pages in a minute. It calls the fastest print system in the world. Of course the price is pretty impressive also. It start at $500,000. The top of the line will cost a million.

eBay Bought Skype

2005-09-12T10:47:00.000-04:00

eBay agree to buy Skype (the global Internet communications company) for approximately $2.6 billion in up-front cash and eBay stock. This acquisition will sure open some new lines of business for eBay. Still, that's a lot of money. Just hope this is a good move for our consumer.

Creative DiVi CAM 428 Mini Digital Camcorder

2005-09-09T12:24:00.000-04:00

The new digital camcorder from Creative (DiVi CAM 425) has some nice features. Like 4.0 Megapixel CCD sensor with MP3 playing and voice recording function, plus 2-inch LTPS (Low Temperature Poly Silicon) LCD screen and a high capacity (1000mAh) Lithium-ion rechargeable battery. The most important thing at all is all of these only cost $199, will be available at September 2005.

Official Link
http://creative.com/press/releases/welcome.asp?pid=12190

AMOI 660 Mobile Phone

2005-09-09T11:12:00.000-04:00

From Akihabara news. This camera GSM triband phone from AMOI has a 1.3MP camera and with 12MB internal memory. I have to say the design of this phone looks a lot like Panasonic X300 phone.

Sony New High-End Digital Camera DSC-R1

2005-09-08T13:50:00.000-04:00

Thinking 5MP is just not enough? Sony just announced the new digital camera DSC-R1 with 10.3 megapixel image sensor and Carl Zeiss zoom lens (24mm - 120mm). What really impress me is the shutter release time of only 7.5 milliseconds. There is also a 2" LCD screen which is foldable. The retail price is about $1000.

Sony official link
http://news.sel.sony.com/pressrelease/6075