02/13, 4:50pm
BlackBerry PlayBook 10, docks seen early
A Czech sighting in backrooms at BlackBerry DevCon Europe has claimed to show not just upcoming accessories for the PlayBook but the rumored 10-inch PlayBook. BlackBerryCzech claimed to have seen one within several feet but was denied a chance at a photo. The design was supposedly working and left open a chance the new version might show either at Mobile World Congress this month or, more likely, DevCon Americas in May.
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02/10, 10:15pm
AirPlay, Bluetooth optons
Two different tech gear companies have announced two new products for music lovers who want small speakers. Gear4 out of El Segundo are launching the AirZone Series 1 home speaker and iPhone/iPod dock that incorporates AirPlay compatibility for remote sounds and control, while iPod accessory maker iHome is offering two different mini-speakers that stream music and more via Bluetooth connections, one including a mic for speakerphone use.
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02/09, 9:00pm
Features 3 speakers and adjustable arm
Scosche has brought out a special docking system for iPads. The bassDOCK can accept either first or second generation iPads in either a landscape or portrait orientation. The dock integrates a three speaker 2.1 stereo sound system as well.
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02/08, 1:05am
Uses classic wristwatch design
Further taking advantage of the iPod nano's "clock face" watch app which has spawned an entire mini-industry of wrist straps for it, accessory maker Hex has expanded its own lineup of sixth-generation Nano wristbands to include the new Vision Classic Leather band, which uses genuine leather and top-stitched embroidered edges in the classic styling. It's available in four color choices: black white, British tan and gray, and also sports a patented clip-based, coated stainless steel plate for removing or inserting the Nano without scratching.
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02/07, 8:00pm
Quality sound for music, gaming and chat
CompuExpert has introduced a lightweight, foldable, rechargeable wireless headset called the Airhead 1000 that positions itself as a top-quality music headphone system that also happens to handle chat and gaming experiences. The headset provides up to 12 hours of wireless use at a stretch and features both a USB charging port and a 3.5mm line-out jack for a second headset or speakers. It works with all major chat, VoIP and gaming networks up to 30 feet from the computer.
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02/06, 3:50pm
Google HUD glasses may follow Chromebook idea
More information has been gleaned from a tipster to 9to5google regarding Google's upcoming HUD glasses. The prototype version reportedly resembles Oakley's Thump Pro sunglasses and get a front-facing camera that records info for augmented reality apps. The prototype was also said to have an integrated flash.
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02/04, 4:00am
MOTOACTV now lasts for 9h, gets more features
Motorola's MOTOACTV has received a second big update that significantly extends its usefulness. It has gained another hour on top of what it got in a first update and can last for nine hours on battery. An overdue battery meter in the status bar now gives a better indicator of how much charge is left.
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02/03, 6:00pm
HN-900 & Aurvana X-Fi 2 cancel noise by 85 percent
Creative has introduced a pair of noise-canceling headphones. The HN-900 integrates an in-line microphone with the over-the-ear headset. The Aurvana X-Fi 2 is a pure headphone, but supports a multi-dimensional surround-sound effect.
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02/03, 4:50pm
Security lock for iPad 2
StudioProper has released a new iPad stand designed for in-car use. The Wallee Headrest can be attached to any car seat and positioned either on the back of a headrest or in a central position between the front seats. Support is also offered for holding the device in both portrait and landscape orientations. The Wallee Headrest can be purchased through StudioProper's online store for $40 with free shipping around the world.
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02/01, 2:40pm
MediaDevil to launch keyboard covers
On February 14 FileMaker will be hosting a web seminar designed to teach participants how to use their current database in a mobile setting. The session will focus on both user interaction and system architecture, and will show how screen design, lightweight schema and hybrid development techniques can be used to improve productivity. Two one hour sessions have been scheduled, the first will take place at 11am EDT and the second at 2pm EDT. Registration is open for both and can be completed online.
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02/01, 11:10am
JVC outs first iOS dock that serves as nightstand
For those who like to make their electronics serve multiple purposes, JVC Japan has just introduced an iPod and iPhone dock that doubles as a nightstand. Called the N-BX3, it sports a glass top that measures 11.8 by 4.3 inches across and is nearly 20 inches tall. Two 30W satellite speakers reproduce sound, and a shelf pulls out for docking users' iOS devices.
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02/01, 8:10am
Seagate GoFlex gets DIY Thunderbolt add-on
Seagate has quietly updated its accessory page with a GoFlex Thunderbolt adapter. The add-on now lets any of Seagate's mobile GoFlex drives use the 10Gbps interface on a Mac or upcoming PCs. The storage designers claim that it's about 20 times faster than USB 2.0, although only if the drive itself can maximize the bus speed.
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01/31, 8:35pm
Counterfeit battery pack cases to be destroyed
Two online petitions that look to address issues around claims of factory worker abuse among the Chinese suppliers of Apple and other electronics firms have been launched online, while accessory maker Mophie has won a case against a counterfeit case producer in Texas.
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01/31, 4:20pm
T-Mobile sells Square readers at about 100 stores
T-Mobile has now begun selling the Square mobile readers to business owners. In mid-December, the carrier began offering the hardware in a limited-time promo. The carrier is the first to sell the hardware directly, though it's available at less than 100 stores across the nation.
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01/28, 7:25pm
We review Logitech's very tiny travel mouse
The world of mice could often be described charitably as stagnant: it's an endless sea of ergonomic shapes that assume you're sitting at a desk and have lots of room in your bag. Logitech's Cube is about as different as you can get, with a small, brick-like design that relies on touch and orientation to make it an ultraportable mouse and presenter. We'll gauge in our Logitech Cube review whether it's a welcome break or a novelty.
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01/28, 12:30am
Latest addition to the iPro lens system
Schneider Optics was one of many companies at the Macworld iWorld expo showing off its latest accessories. Electronista stopped by the lens maker's booth to check out their latest addition to the iPro interchangeable lens system for the iPhone 4 and 4S. A 2X telephoto lens now complements the company's wide angle and fisheye lenses.
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01/27, 11:35pm
Opena and Intoxicase
The Macworld iWorld expo always hosts a number of unique products, and this year was no exception. MacNN was surprised to find no less than three iPhone cases that double as bottle openers. We checked out the Opena case, along with two 'Intoxicase' models offered by Spicebox.
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01/27, 10:45pm
First look at Kickstarter project
Several successful Kickstarter projects are currently on hand at the Macworld iWorld expo for potential customers to try out, including LandingZone's docking station for the MacBook Air. Electronista initially wrote about the device before it had gathered enough funding to pass through the Kickstarter program, so we were excited to get a chance to see it in person.
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01/27, 4:20pm
Scosche reVOLT c2 available for purchase
Enfocus has released Instant PDF 10, an update to its PDF creation tool. Version 10 includes one of the most frequently requested features, annotated error reporting, as well as support for OS X Lion and Adobe CS 5.5. In addition, the update uses Enfocus PitStop Library 10, which provides users with the same level of error identification and correction as the highest-end Enfocus application suites. A fully-functional trial version can be downloaded online, while single user licenses start at $300.
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01/26, 10:15pm
Quality sound via USB interface
Audioengine has continued to build quality audio accessories paired with affordable price tags. Electronista listened to the company's latest digital-to-analog converters (DACs) this week at the Macworld iWorld expo in San Francisco. The devices aim to provide a quality interface between a computer and an audio system, rather than relying in the computer's DAC.
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01/26, 9:00pm
New premium AirPlay accessory
Bang & Olufsen brought several of its latest products to the Macworld iWorld expo in San Francisco, including the Beolit 12 portable speaker that fits into the company's B&O Play brand. MacNN took the opportunity to listen to the new speaker, which is a premium model among iOS accessories but a budget model when compared to the rest of Bang & Olufsen's products.
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01/26, 5:55pm
Ultrasone intros $1,300 Signature Pro headphones
German high-end headphone maker Ultrasone has just unveiled one of its more advanced earpieces in the Signature Pro set. Meant for use by musicians, sound engineers and audiophiles, the handmade headphones sport a 40mm titanium-plated driver developed by Ultrasone engineers.
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01/24, 6:45pm
New Walkman E-series now lighter, thinner
Sony Japan has just introduced two new E-series Walkman players in Japan that are said to be thinner and lighter than their predecessors. Both have a 1.4-inch color LCD and a noise-cancelling design, while promising 30 hours of music playback on a full charge. The NW-E060 gets 2GB of built-in memory while the NW-E063 doubles that, with no other differences detailed.
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01/24, 1:00pm
AFC gains new color options
MonkeyBread Software has launched a new version of MBS FileMaker Plugin, its collection of tools for FileMaker Pro. Version 2.5 now contains 765 different functions, including new CURL functions to enhance upload and download capabilities. Additionally, the update includes new CUPS functions for querying printers and print jobs, canceling print jobs, and sending data to a printer. A free trial can be downloaded from the company's website, while licenses start at $150.
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01/24, 12:10pm
Deals on iPad cases, hard drives, and more
Today's deals from DealNN include price breaks on iPad cases, hard drives, and more. Buy.com this week has lowered the cost of the Arc. iPad Case and Stand with Built-in Screen Protector and Joytracer, complete with four different viewing angles, an all-in-one design with built-in scratch-resistant screen, and Swarovski crystal accent. Currently featured at DealNN, this iPad case has now dropped 71% in price and can be purchased for only $17.24.
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01/23, 4:35pm
Pogo Sketch Plus uses a new Pro Tip for accuracy
Ten One Design has just released a new stylus for iOS devices, the Pogo Sketch Plus. It uses the company's Pro Tip technology for an increase in precision and sensitivity, while having less friction. This also enabled the tip itself to be made thinner.
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01/20, 10:40pm
Turn iPads into guitar and drum effects boxes
Audio accessory maker Alesis has debuted a number of new devices for musicians, including three new USB MIDI keyboard controllers along with a set of iPad- and iPhone-specific amp docks. All are on display at the company's booth (#6400) at the 2012 NAMM show in Anaheim, CA. The keyboards include two 61-note models as well as a 25-note compact model. The iPad and iPhone amp docks are based on the company's successful iO docks.
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01/20, 2:35pm
Typinator update adds calculator
Ten One Design has announced the launch of the Magnus, a new magnetic stand for the iPad 2. Constructed from a single piece of aluminum, the stand takes advantage of the iPad 2's built-in magnets and holds the device securely in the landscape orientation. While not designed for use with iPad cases, the stand will still work with thin protective skins. The Magnus can be ordered for $50 through the company's online store, and will begin shipping next week.
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01/19, 9:15pm
Controller doubles as iPad case
Akai has introduced the MPC Fly, a compact music production center designed specifically for the iPad 2. The tablet connects to a dock connector within the hinged case, enabling users to take advantage of buttons, including 16 backlit pads and several other controls, while working with Akai's MPC app on the iPad's touchscreen display.
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01/19, 8:00pm
Online storage and iPad mounting setup
iDrive has launched a new version of its mobile app that allows users to access an online storage account and share files while on the go. The dedicated iOS app has been updated with native iPad support, and now allows users to backup contacts, photos, videos and more over a WiFi or 3G connection. In addition, several enhancements have been made to improve performance. A free 5GB account is offered to all customers, while 150GB and 500GB plans are available for $5 and $15 per month respectively. Alternatively, business plans range from 50GB up to 1TB with priority customer support starting at $10 per month.
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01/19, 6:30pm
Features 170-degree lens, built-in viewfinder
Snow sports accessory maker Zeal Optics has expanded its sports google line with the debut of the iON Google, a visor that also includes a 1080p HD camera that can capture video and sound, or 8MP still images. The camera features a 170-degree wide angle, fixed "infinity" focus and automatic light-level adjustment, storing its media on a micro-SD card. It also has an in-goggle viewfinder.
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01/19, 5:25pm
Behringer expands Xenyx-series small form mixers
Just ahead of the NAMM show, Behringer has introduced three new Xenyx-series mixers that are meant to integrate Apple's iPad into the process. The small format mixers all sport an iPad dock that allows for two-way communication between the mixer and iPad. They have a stereo USB audio interface that connects to a Windows or Mac OS X computer for recording as well.
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01/19, 5:15pm
Genius outs wireless mouse with capacitor
Taiwanese computer peripherals maker Genius has just released its DX-ECO BlueEye Mouse. The mouse centers on a recharge time of just three minutes and will allow the mouse to last a whole day thanks to its use of a capacitor rather than a traditional battery. The gold capacitor has a quoted life of 100,000 recharges.
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01/18, 4:40pm
MeMic BT accessory for ASUS tablet shows at FCC
A new accessory for ASUS' upcoming Eee Pad MeMO unveiled at CES has just shown up at the FCC. Called the MeMic, it's meant to connect over Bluetooth to the seven-inch tablet and allow users to make phone calls without holding the large tablet next to their head. It will also double as a remote control for the tablet.
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01/18, 2:20pm
Nissan puts its self-healing paint on iPhone case
Japanese automaker Nissan has applied its self-healing paint technology to an iPhone case. The first-of-its-kind case is a tribute to the Juke crossover and was created with the help of the University of Tokyo and Advanced Softmaterials. As on Nissan's cars, any small scratches or scrapes can fix themselves over time.
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01/17, 11:40pm
Built with Thermaltake
BMW Group subsidiary DesignworksUSA has teamed with Thermaltake to introduce the Level 10 M mouse for gamers. The mouse has been designed as a follow-up to the Level 10 gaming PC chassis that was also borne of collaboration between the design think tank and chassis builder.
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01/16, 12:25pm
$120 Beezid prize giveaway
Now that the holidays have long past, many of you may be looking for a way to get that cool electronics gadget that no one got for you, but you might not have a lot of extra spare change to spend on it. Well we have teamed up with beezid.com to offer one lucky reader $120 in bid credits. Read on to find out how you can win.
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01/13, 6:05pm
Speaker uses surface contact to boost bass
WOWee has brought its latest gadget to CES, the Pro portable speaker. Electronista stopped by the company's booth to listen to the latest model, which adds a microphone and a Bluetooth radio to the Slim variant that was released approximately one year ago.
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01/13, 2:20pm
Renew SleepClock coming to Apple Stores
GEAR4 has announced that its Renew SleepClock will be launched in US Apple Retail stores in March for $200. The bedside alarm clock incorporates two sensors for monitoring breathing and movement, allowing the associated iOS app to log sleep cycles. The senors have a range of 1.5m and are able to recognize movement through bedclothes and duvets. They also remove the need for any additional wristbands, headbands, or accessories that are common among other devices.
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01/13, 12:20pm
Apple business motivating factor
Cable maker Volex is switching to halogen-free power cables this year because of its primary customer, Apple, reports say. Burning halogen can result in the release of dioxins and furans, although the chemicals are only said to be a serious concern during the disposal process. Volex supplies both USB and power cables to Apple for products such as iPhones and iPads.
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01/13, 3:30am
Ego cam for sports introduced by Liquid Image
Liquid Image, whose first product was an underwater mask with an integrated camera, has now expanded its range to include a new small Ego cam. We stopped by the company's booth at CES to have a look, and liked the very small size. Aimed at extreme athletes, the 1080p camera has tripod thread at the bottom for mounting it to various vehicles or rigs.
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01/13, 1:00am
Android/iOS Bluetooth keyboard
As tablets become more popular, people are starting to use their portable devices for extended typing. This has opened the market for external Bluetooth keyboards that improve the typing experience, without taking up additional space. ZAGG has attempted to address this issue with the ZAGGkeys FLEX, which includes the added feature of supporting both Android and iOS.
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01/13, 12:50am
ViewSonic gives a glimpse at upcoming gear at CES
ViewSonic gave us a quick look at its upcoming hardware at the CES show. This included the 10-inch ViewPad 10e and dual-booting 10pi and 7-inch E70 Android tablets and ViewPhone 3. The phone will cost $280 and be unlocked when it ships in March, supporting AT&T and T-Mobile networks.
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01/12, 10:30pm
Company continues 2012 rollout at CES
Griffin Technology continued its rollout of 2012 products at CES today, including updates to its Woogie 2 plush toy iOS cases that incorporate iPhones and the iPod Touch as an integral part of the "creature," the expansion into Android apps to control the HELO TC toy helicopters, and a plethora of car- and travel-related accessories including windshield and window mounts for smartphones, a e-reader mount for airline or rail "tray tables," and a combo battery-pack and charger.
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01/12, 8:30pm
Offers a special 'tactile' version as well
Although standard Bluetooth keyboards can also be paired with an iPad or iPhone, the process can be time-consuming for users who regularly like to switch between computers and mobile devices using the same keyboard. Often, the answer was to buy two keyboards -- but accessory maker Matias is taking its classic-style, wired One Keyboards up a notch with models that feature a holder for the iPhone or iPod Touch, and can switch instantly between the computer and the iOS device at the touch of a button.
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01/12, 8:20pm
Swiss Army intros $3,000 Victorinox 1TB SSD
We stopped by the Victorinox booth to see what's new at CES. The Swiss Army knife maker showed off an upcoming limited edition knife with a built-in 1TB solid state drive. Slightly larger than its smaller-capacity brethren, the drive is capable of 220MBps read and 150MBps write speeds. As with other Swiss Army USB knives, the drive is detachable from the knife, though this process is much simpler here.
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01/12, 5:20pm
Westinghouse unveils first 3D HDTVs, Soundbar
Westinghouse, known for its budget-priced HDTVs, showed us its promised HDTV lineup for 2012 at CES. This included the company's first speaker product in the form of its Bluetooth soundbar. It has two 12W speakers and contains a Class D amplifier.
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01/12, 1:00am
End-to-end encrypted data mirroring
Secure storage-and-sharing USB key iTwin has been upgraded to allow users to share files stored on a computer with multiple people simultaneously, providing an end-to-end encrypted solution for mirroring files that are on one part of the two-part USB key instantly to its mates. The free update lets multiple iTwin keys "belong" to each other, making transfer of data easy without the constraints of e-mail, the technical complication of VPN or the ongoing fees of cloud services.
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01/11, 7:45pm
US customers to see new apps in first half of 2012
Daimler and Google announced the strengthening of their strategic partnership, giving Daimler programmers full access to the suite of Google application programming interfaces (API) known collectively as Google Maps API for Business. The collaboration will enable Daimler to use Google Maps for their in-car map displays and speed development of other automotive apps.
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01/11, 3:05pm
Tango uses rare tilting back
Continuing a series of CES announcements, XtremeMac has announced the Tango TT, a new speaker dock for iOS devices. The dock is unusual in featuring a sliding back, which can raise or lower a device for viewing at different vertical angles. It also features a flexible dock connector, which lets iOS devices (including iPads) sit in the dock in portrait or landscape orientations.
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