When Motorola introduced the Droid Razr, the handset's internal water-resistant coating appeared to be a unique feature in the smartphone market. Electronista spoke with a separate company, HzO, that has taken the technology much further, enabling smartphones to be completely submerged underwater without the need for an external case.
Toshiba has announced that it will show off several upcoming products next week at CES, including a waterproof tablet and a large glasses-free 3D TV. Aside from the waterproof tablet, which also offers wireless charging, the company will show off a different model that integrates an OLED display.
Swann has introduced the the Freestyle HD, the company's first wearable video camera that shoots in HD resolution. The camera allows users to capture eight-megapixel still photos or 1080p video at 30fps, with options for stereo audio, digital zoom and single or continuous shooting in still mode. Content can be previewed on an integrated 1.5-inch LCD on the backside.
ioSafe has debuted the Solo, an external hard drive that offers up to 1.5TB of storage and features protection against fire or water damage. The company claims that the housing can withstand fire temperatures up to 1550 degrees Fahrenheit and flood protection down to a 10 foot depth for three days. Along with the drive, customers will also receive up to $1000 toward third-party forensic drive data recovery services that can be used if the devices sustain enough damage to prevent direct access to information by standard means.
SentrySafe has announced a 250GB version of its Fire-Safe Waterproof Hard Drive series. It is encased in a SentrySafe Fire-Safe Waterproof enclosure which protects data from fire and water. The drive is third-party ETL-verified for fire protection for 30 minutes up to 1550 degrees Fahrenheit and ETL-verified waterproof (fully submersible in water for up to 24 hours). The USB 2.0 drive is available now for $400 and works with Mac OS X 10.4.7 and higher.
Aquapac this week announced that its established line of 100% waterproof durable polyurethane cases for first generation iPhones, are also an ideal match for the iPhone 3G. Promising full protection of the iPhone in any season or weather condition, the company says the cases enable full use of the iPhone's multi-touch display, as well as enable sound to pass through from the speaker (or to the microphone). Three sizes of Aquapac case suitable for the iPhone are currently shipping: the action-sport ready Small Armband Case with velcro strap ($35), Mini Phone/GPS Case ($25) and Small PDA Case ($25).
SeaLife on Tuesday introduced its new sleek, modern DC800 8-megapixel camera, which it says is water-proof to 200ft (60m) underwater. The SD/SDHC-based camera offers an ergonomic design, large shutter button and well-spaced buttons to help use the device underwater. In addition, the DC800 can also be removed from its rubber armored waterproof housing for use under more standard conditions and includes a wide-angle optical lens with 4x optical/5x digital zoom, a 2.7-inch LCD, auto focus up to 2 inches (5cm) and a video mode to capture high-resolution digital video (640x480) along with sound. The DC800 has virtually no shutter lag, the company claims, thanks to a fast shutter response time and also offers a quick-start for fast action photography.
Aquapac has announced that three of its 100 percent waterproof cases work to protect Apple's iPhone in any condition or season. The cases provide for using the iPhone normally while inside, but guard against bad weather and accidental spills. Polyurethane construction allows full use of the multi-touch display, and allows sound to pass through to from the speaker as well as to the microphone. Three Aquapac waterproof cases work with Apple's iPhone: the action-sport ready Small Armband Case ($35), Mini Phone/GPS Case ($25), and Small PDA Case ($25).
UK-based Wrappers recently unveiled four new sleeves for the MacBook Air, offered in a number of different patterns and materials. The cases are constructed from various materials, such as linen, canvas, microfibre, and sensory fabric. The Shiny Sleeve has a waterproof, stain-resistant polyurethane shell, and uses a tear-proof lining to protect the MacBook Air. Pricing for the Shiny Sleeve is £35 (~$70); Shiny Sleeve is available from Wrappers' website.
H2O Audio today began shipping its new iN3 waterproof case for Apple's iPod nano. The iN3 is a sleek case that follows the form of Apple's third-generation iPod nano, offering waterproof protection that allows users to surf and swim with the portable player. When combined with the new H3 waterproof headphones, the iN3 provides an end-to-end music system designed for watersports. The case is waterproof at up to 10-feet, and allows full control of the click-wheel as well as menu commands -- even when fully submerged under water or while wearing gloves. The iN3 waterproof case is priced at $80.
H2O Audio has begun shipping its new iFR Sport Combo for Apple iPhones. The new iFR Sport Combo is the latest addition to H2O Audio's Outdoor product line, and uses a water resistant case providing protection against hostile conditions, impact shocks, drops, sweat, marring and scratching. The case utilizes a durable polycarbonate construction for impact and shock protection, has a flip, and a swivel and stow case lid that provides complete access to all iPhone menu functions. The combo pack includes a quick-fit sport armband featuring a unique Dual D-ring design that comfortably fits all arm sizes under or over jackets and coats. The armband provides built-in cord management that eliminates the bother of tangled earbuds.
