Gizmodo: Accessories

Grenade Mouse: If Rambo Used a Computer

matt buchanan — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 11:00:00 EDT

This is the most hardass mouse I've ever seen. It's a mouse stuffed inside of an ~~actual~~ grenade shell (that's sadly plastic, I was a little overexcited after watching Rambo the other night). Sure, it's a crappy Targus mouse lurking underneath its rippled casing. And you know it's goddamn uncomfortable. But that's part of the point.

When your pasty, sweaty hand is gripping this instrument of death turned into a cuddly gadget, enduring the minor misery in your lower arm caused its frankly horrifying ergonomics, you'll feel like a badass. You totally won't be, but for that brief second, it's not like anyone could tell you any differently. Except for you know, Rambo, who would punch your heart out. [Modding.ru via technabob]

NZXT Avatar Gaming Mouse Lightning Review

matt buchanan — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 20:30:00 EDT

The Gadget Avatar is the first-ever gaming mouse from NZXT, who's better known for its Battlestar Galactica-worthy PC cases. It's got the usual gaming mice features—a ridiculous DPI count with on-the-fly-switching, a crapload of customizable buttons, and bright, shiny lights.

The Price: $70.

Verdict: I'm on record as being less than fond of ambidextrous mice since I don't use a "claw" grip for gaming. Avatar tries to let you have it both ways, with a deeply grooved thumb grip, and fails more spectacularly as a result.

Its most glaring problem, and what ultimately renders it less than usable, is that it has a thumb button placed on either side—part of the whole ambidextrous thing—so it's far too easy to hit the one opposite your thumb with your ring finger whenever you pick the mouse up (something you do a lot, actually). You can try tucking your finger underneath it, but that requires you to recess your grip, so that clicking the button your thumb actually uses requires more effort, and therefore more time. Not to mention it cramps your hand, thanks to its extremely thin profile. They could partially solve this by making the ass of the mouse a bit fatter, giving the back of your palm more surface to grip so you could actually use it in a claw style. Even then, that errant side button would still be in the way.

So, while the customization software and everything worked well enough, the ergonomics of the mouse really just make it less than usable. If you're looking for an ambidextrous gaming mouse, I'd recommend one of Razer's instead. [NZXT]

Apple Patent Filing Hints at Distance-Based Bluetooth Pairing

Jack Loftus — Sun, 28 Sep 2008 16:30:00 EDT

Like two dogs meeting for the first time, it may soon be the case that Apple wireless devices need only catch a whiff of each others' rear ends before they know everything they need to know about the other. All joking aside, Apple really did file a pair of patents recently that would let users pair wireless devices simply by bringing them together. A second patent would allow users to fill in missing address book data simply by making a request through e-mail.

As AppleInsider explains, when using Bluetooth devices together, the process often involves a PIN to prevent those awkward "accidental pairings" or unwanted rogue devices from getting on the peripheral network. PINs, as you may know, are difficult if the item is tiny, as is the case with headsets.

So, Apple proposes in the filing that they would solve this issue "by determining the range of the wireless link between the new device and its host." If the devices get, say, within a foot of each other and are looking for a new link, they'll automatically pair up and possibly exchange data, sans romantic music of any kind. If the devices broke their one-foot or so link, the data transfer would cease.

Bluetooth-o-philes will note that this arrangement is very similar to the 2.1 spec, aka Near Field Communications. With the Apple attempt, however, any standard capable of pairing would work with the device. Apple also introduces a few other new ideas, including a wireless dock or in-car adapter for connecting a cell to a PMP or equivalent.

And in other Apple-related news, the App Store changed its review policy so that only owners of each app could give it a review. Makes sense! [Apple Insider, Matt Legend]

When Women Won't Love You, the USB Talking I Love You Mouse Will

Jack Loftus — Sun, 21 Sep 2008 14:30:00 EDT

Picture this, if you will. It's a cold winter night a few months from now, and a fierce wind blows frigid air against the windows. Inside, things couldn't be hotter. You've settled down for the evening with a chilled flute of Red Bull energy drink and a steaming Hot Pocket. The scene feels ever so close to perfection, but something's missing. Companionship. Intimacy. Love. So, you reach tentatively toward your mouse, which sits, silently, on its Star Wars mouse pad. Then you click. And click again. Faster now, until your USB I Love You Mouse cries out to the heavens, "I Love You!" You do this, unabashedly, for the next five hours, because that's what this $21 mouse does. It says "I Love You" every time you click the scroll wheel.

[Green House via Technabob]

Teknocreations' InCharge Juices Wiimotes Without Contact

Elaine Chow — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 22:45:00 EDT

We've featured a couple of Wiimote charging solutions before, but here's one that's gotten around the pesky problem of charging without metal contacts—annoying if you actually use those Wiimote jackets. Teknocreations' InCharge allows you to dock up to two 'motes, silicon and all, to grab 25 hours of gameplay juice. How? Magic (i mean, inductive charging)! InCharge retails for $34.99. [IGN via Nintendo Wii Fanboy]

Star Wars Flashers Use The Force (i.e., Flashing, Spinning Heads) to Alert You to Calls

Elaine Chow — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 22:10:00 EDT

Always had something against Darth Vader and his many Stormtrooper cronies? Why not denigrate them to the lowest forms of consumer electronics by decapitating their shrunken heads and turning those into nifty Star Wars phone flashers? Now if you're in a way-too-noisy cantina, or if you're phone is on silent, the head of the Dark Lord (or Stormtrooper No. 37291018) will spin 'round and 'round to make sure you don't miss your call. How droll. $9 a head. [Firebox via Random Good Stuff]

Iomega eGo Helium Portable Drive Matches Your MacBook Air

Elaine Chow — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 06:00:00 EDT

Iomega, maker of many a sexy storage device, has a new eGo out specifically tailored to the MacBook Air set. The 2.5-inch eGo Helium Portable Hard Drive encloses 320GB in anodized aluminum. In case that's not enough space, the drive can utilize an online backup service for “cloud computing.” The entire package is less than an inch thick, weighs 7 ounces and can be dropped from up to 4 feet 3 inches onto industrial carpeting without worry. Not that any of you will experiment with that, I hope.

Iomega Announces Must-Have for MacBook Air Owners:

New Ultra-Thin eGo Helium Portable Hard Drive

***

eGo Helium Delivers 320 Gigabytes of Stylish Storage for MacBook Air

SAN DIEGO, September 17, 2008 – Iomega, an EMC company (NYSE: EMC) and a global leader in data protection and security, today announced the exciting new Iomega® eGo™ Helium Portable Hard Drive USB 2.0 320GB*, a perfect match for the style and incremental storage needs of Apple’s revolutionary MacBook Air™ notebook.

On display this week at the Apple Expo tradeshow in Paris, the new eGo Helium portable drive brings the MacBook Air™ notebook’s aesthetic to Iomega’s wildly popular eGo portable hard drive. In addition to the drive’s portable storage, the eGo Helium also harnesses the benefits of cloud computing with Mozy™ online backup service, giving users incredible value and security for securely storing, protecting and accessing important files.

Cool Hardware

The tapered 320GB eGo Helium portable hard drive echoes the stylish lines of the streamlined MacBook Air™ laptop, enclosing a state-of-the-art 2.5-inch portable hard drive in an anodized aluminum shell to create a package that is a mere 0.63 inches thick (16 mm) and weighs only 7 ounces (200 grams). Formatted with Apple’s HFS+ file system, the 320GB hard drive sports Iomega’s Drop Guard™ design feature that protects the drive from drops of up to 51 inches (1.3 meters) onto industrial carpeting—40 percent above the industry average for portable hard drives. The eGo Helium receives power from the USB port so there’s no power supply to carry around. And with space for up to 1,280,000 photos, over 5,920 hours of music or 480 hours of video**, the 320GB eGo Helium drive gives new meaning to stylish portable storage.

“Iomega’s eGo portable hard drives have garnered tremendous attention in the beige world of external storage by offering consumers a choice of several different vibrant colors as well as a camouflage print and genuine leather,” said Peter Wharton, vice president of marketing, Iomega Corporation. “The eGo Helium extends that strong commitment to delivering style with substance. What makes eGo Helium such an effective piece of industrial design is the way it dresses up a highly functional 320GB hard drive device into a durable and sleek package with plenty of storage capability, making it an easy-to-use ‘eye-catcher’ that’s small enough to go anywhere.”

Key Software

Iomega offers two Mac OS® X backup software applications with the eGo Helium portable hard drive as free downloads for added data safety: EMC® Retrospect® Express for Macintosh 6.1 software, and MozyHome™ online backup software (2GB free; unlimited online storage for $4.95/month). Retrospect Express protects a single Macintosh desktop or notebook computer by backing up to internal and external hard drives, NAS devices, CD/DVDs and removable drives such as Iomega’s REV Backup Drive. MozyHome online backup service provides online storage for backing up selected folders or files to world-class EMC data centers.

Computer users running the Windows XP or Vista operating systems can reformat the eGo Helium drive to NTFS for use with Windows only, or the drive can be formatted as Fat 32 for use with both Macs and Windows PCs. Customers running Windows XP or Vista can also download Retrospect Express HD 2.5 for Windows with MozyHome integration, which gives users the convenience of shared setup information and the ability to send backups to either nearline storage (an external hard drive or network drive), online storage (the Internet), or both.

Compatibility

The Iomega® eGo™ Helium™ Portable Hard Drive USB 2.0 320GB is compatible with Mac OS X 10.1.5 or above and with Microsoft® Windows 2000 Professional, Windows XP, and Windows Vista™. MozyHome software is available for Mac OS X 10.4 and above, along with Windows XP and Windows Vista. EMC Retrospect software is available for both Windows and Mac OS X operating systems.

Price and Availability

The Iomega® eGo™ Helium Portable Hard Drive USB 2.0 320GB will be available worldwide in October for $149.99 from online retailers, VARs, resellers and select retailers, as well as at www.iomega.com. (All pricing in this news release is U.S. suggested retail.)

About EMC

EMC Corporation (NYSE: EMC) is the world's leading developer and provider of information infrastructure technology and solutions that enable organizations of all sizes to transform the way they compete and create value from their information. Information about EMC's products and services can be found at www.EMC.com.

About Mozy

Mozy is the leader in online data backup for consumers and businesses. With more than 850,000 users and 23,000 business customers, Mozy offers a simple, automatic and secure service for backing up data over the Internet. Mozy was acquired by EMC Corporation in 2007 and operates as part of the EMC Cloud Infrastructure and Services Division. Information can be found at www.mozy.com.

About Iomega

Iomega Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of EMC Corporation and headquartered in San Diego, is a worldwide leader in innovative storage and network security solutions for small and mid-sized businesses, consumers and others. The Company has sold more than 400 million digital storage drives and disks since its inception in 1980. Today, Iomega’s product portfolio includes industry leading network storage products, external hard drives, and our award-winning removable storage technology, the REV® Backup Drive. To learn about all of Iomega’s digital storage products and managed services solutions, please go to the Web at www.iomega.com. Resellers can visit Iomega at www.iomega.com/ipartner.

Logitech's New Speakers Feature Omnidirectional Sound, Motion Sensing, USB Plug-and-Play

Elaine Chow — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 04:00:00 EDT

In case you're in the market for a new set of speakers, Logitech's just dropped a couple that you should probably consider. Two of them, the Logitech Pure-Fi Anytime and the Logitech Pure-Fi Express Plus, also function as iPod docks. The third, Logitech's Z-5 Omnidirectional Stereo Speakers is completely USB bus-powered. Each option will set you back $100.

The Anytime dock (pictured above) has probably the worst speakers of the three, but comes with an integrated alarm clock which uses motion-sensing to light itself up or hit the Snooze button at the wave of a hand. The Express Dock features omnidirectional acoustics to transmit sound evenly in all directions, a remote control, and can run on either AC or battery power.

The Z-5 is more of a portable laptop speaker and can be powered completely through USB. It also boasts omnidirectional sound and comes with a remote control.

The Next Evolution of PC-Speaker Acoustics: Logitech Introduces Omnidirectional Speakers for PC, Mac Computers

Logitech Z-5 Omnidirectional Stereo Speakers

Deliver Great Sound Throughout Your Room

FREMONT, Calif. – Sept. 16, 2008 — Attaching speakers to a PC has always improved on the sound quality of built-in PC speakers. But now, Logitech (SWX: LOGN) (NASDAQ: LOGI) introduces the next evolution in PC-speaker acoustics, unveiling the Logitech® Z-5 omnidirectional stereo speakers – for PC and Mac® computers – which deliver great sound throughout your room.

Unlike standard PC speakers that focus sound in one direction, the Logitech Z-5 speakers use omnidirectional acoustics that create a substantially wider sweet spot – an especially helpful feature if you often move your laptop around your home or office. An innovative speaker technology previously found only in expensive home-theater systems, omnidirectional acoustics on the Logitech Z-5 speakers use forward- and backward-firing drivers to transmit sound evenly in all directions. Whether you’re listening to your favorite song or watching a video on YouTube™, you’ll enjoy rich, articulate sound and minimal distortion – from every corner of your room.

“We’re truly excited to offer omnidirectional speakers for the PC and the Mac,” said Mark Schneider, vice president and general manager of Logitech’s audio business unit. “We’re confident that the Z-5 speakers will provide a noticeable improvement to the PC-entertainment experience whether you’re listening to music or watching a movie. With omnidirectional acoustics, the sound is all around you no matter where you have your desktop or laptop computer.”

Delivering pure digital audio that’s easily moved with your laptop, the Z-5 omnidirectional speakers can be quickly connected to any PC or Mac via USB. There’s no need for an external power adaptor or batteries. And to let you wirelessly navigate and enjoy all your entertainment options, Logitech’s newest speaker system comes with a sleek remote control. Launch your favorite entertainment application, adjust the volume and change your selection from across the room.

Pricing and Availability

The Logitech Z-5 omnidirectional stereo speakers are expected to be available in the U.S. and Europe beginning this month for a suggested retail price of $99.99 (U.S.).

and

Dock, Rock and Roll (or Snooze): Logitech Introduces Two Speaker Docks for iPods or iPhones

Pure-Fi Express Plus Offers Omnidirectional Acoustics, Pure-Fi Anytime Makes the Perfect Nightstand Companion

FREMONT, Calif. – Sept. 16, 2008 — Whether you dock your iPod®, or your iPhone™, in the bedroom or crank up your favorite playlist in the living room, Logitech (SWX: LOGN) (NASDAQ: LOGI) has a speaker dock for you. The Logitech® Pure-Fi Express Plus omnidirectional speaker for iPod or iPhone delivers great sound throughout your room, while the Logitech® Pure-Fi Anytime™ premium alarm clock for iPod or iPhone is the perfect nightstand companion. Both speakers are compatible with the first generation iPhone as well as the new 3G iPhone.

“Our research revealed that as digital music players, and especially the iPod, become more integral to our lives, we look for accessories to optimize the experience,” said Mark Schneider, vice president and general manager of Logitech’s audio business unit. “Our latest iPod speaker docks are designed to suit each person according to their individual needs, whether what’s wanted is enhanced audio and portability or an alarm clock with innovative features such as motion sensing.”

Logitech Pure-Fi Express Plus Featuring Omnidirectional Acoustics

A first for iPod or iPhone speaker docks, Pure-Fi Express Plus offers omnidirectional acoustics. An innovative speaker technology previously found only in expensive home-theater systems, omnidirectional acoustics transmit sound evenly in all directions. If you love to dock, charge and listen to your iPod or iPhone when you’re at home, at work, or even in your backyard, now you can enjoy rich, articulate sound and minimal distortion – from every corner of your room.

Pure-Fi Express Plus provides more than just great sound. For added portability, Pure-Fi Express Plus can run on AC or battery power and includes an integrated handle, making it easy to take your music from room to room. The new Logitech dock also features a wireless remote. With a range of up to 30 feet (10 meters), the remote lets you instantly adjust volume, play, pause, fast forward, rewind, as well as offering Shuffle and Repeat buttons – all from the comfort of your couch or favorite chair.

Logitech Pure-Fi Anytime: The Perfect Nightstand Companion

If you commonly dock your iPod or iPhone in the bedroom, Pure-Fi Anytime offers a full set of features, such as advanced motion-sensing technology, that make it perfect for your bedside table – and ensure that you’ll have a fully charged iPod or iPhone when you wake in the morning. To avoid the inconvenience of waking a sleeping partner, the motion-sensing backlight makes it easy to set your alarm without having to turn on the lights. The alarm clock’s controls light up when you wave your hand over the speakers and the buttons automatically dim when you’re done using it. And when you want to get a few minutes of extra sleep when your alarm goes off in the morning, you can simply wave your hand over the speakers and the motion-sensing technology will activate Snooze.

Pure-Fi Anytime also features an easy-to-read display that is clearly visible during the day and night. A recessed dock helps prevent you from accidentally knocking over your iPod or iPhone. Plus, Pure-Fi Anytime offers a digital AM/FM radio for those times when you want to give your iPod a break and enjoy live music, news and sports.

Pricing and Availability

The Logitech® Pure-Fi Express Plus omnidirectional speaker for iPod or iPhone is expected to be available in the U.S. and Europe in October for a suggested retail price of $99.99 (U.S.). The Logitech® Pure-Fi Anytime™ premium alarm clock for iPod or iPhone is expected to be available in the U.S. and Europe beginning in October for a suggested retail price of $99.99 (U.S.).

Microsoft LifeCam Show Brings Video Messages and Effects to Windows Vista

Adrian Covert — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 13:00:59 EDT

Microsoft's LifeCam Show is a 2MP webcam for Windows users that, most notably, offers over 30 video effects, and a new video mailbox service. The LifeCam Show is capable of taking 8MP still photos, has noise/echo cancellation.

The LifeCam software provides over 30 video effects, including 3D accessories that follow your face around the screen, face distortion effects, and filters that alter the color of the picture. Also new to the the Video Message feature, which allows you to send a webcam recording to a friend's Windows Live mailbox for later viewing.

Additionally, Microsoft announced the VX5500 webcam, which has a VGA sensor, takes 1.3MP stills, noise canceling, plus blue, red or white interchangeable faceplates. The LifeCam Show and VX5500 will arrive in October and sell for $100 and $60, respectively. [Microsoft]

Microsoft’s Latest LifeCams Bring Life to Video Calls With Versatile New Designs

LifeCam Show and LifeCam VX-5500 debut fun new video effects and Video Messages.

REDMOND, Wash. ⎯ Sept. 9, 2008 ⎯ Today, Microsoft Corp. unveils two new webcams — LifeCam Show and LifeCam VX-5500 — featuring stunning new designs that not only look great but also provide versatility for use on a laptop or desktop monitor, or sitting next to your PC. No matter where these LifeCams are used, they will make a statement. LifeCam Show is ultra sleek — one of the thinnest webcams on the market— while the LifeCam VX-5500 takes a more sassy approach with switchable faceplates in three colors and an innovative, collapsible design. These LifeCams deliver high-end audio and video performance, groundbreaking new video effects, and Video Messages — a new service for sending and receiving video messages from friends and family.

LifeCam Show: Good Things Come in Small Packages
LifeCam Show features a sleek, mirrored finish and ultrathin design. It looks great with any PC, attaching with ease to a desktop or laptop computer, or even sitting on top of your desk. The LifeCam Show ships with a complete attachment system to make setting up and using the webcam a snap in a variety of different scenarios. Versatile attachment options include the following:

Laptop clip. LifeCam Show magnetically attaches to a clip snapped right onto a laptop.

Desktop stand. LifeCam Show magnetically attaches to an 11-inch-tall desktop stand, which users can position anywhere around the desk for the perfect viewing angle.

Two attachment discs. Attachment discs allow users to attach the adhesive disc to the back of their laptop, giving them the ability to close their laptop easily with the webcam still attached for greater portability.

Offering top audio and video performance, LifeCam Show is not just about good looks and versatility:
A 2.0MP sensor and 8.0MP stills offer true-to-life communication for sharing important life moments.
Top-of-the-line audio technology, including a built-in, noise-cancelling microphone with echo-cancellation software, provides improved sound clarity.

“Our design team has been working hard to ensure that we could fit best-in-class webcam technology into such a tiny footprint. Even at only one-half inch deep, LifeCam Show packs a mean punch with industry-leading audio and video technology,” said Ralf Groene, Industrial Design manager at Microsoft. “We also designed these LifeCams to attach with ease to any type of PC because we know that consumers move between notebooks and desktops and back again, and they want a webcam that can move with them.”

LifeCam VX-5500: Switch Out the Color to Suit Your Mood
The LifeCam VX-5500 is all about fun with an innovative new design. The VX-5500 ships with three interchangeable faceplates in blue, red and white, so users can either choose their favorite color and leave it that color or switch the color every day to match their mood. Similar to LifeCam Show, the VX-5500 can be used on a laptop or desktop computer with an innovative universal attachment clip. When users are ready to pack up, the entire webcam folds down flat for easy transport. With a VGA sensor for 640x480 video, 1.3MP stills, and a unidirectional, noise-cancelling microphone, the LifeCam VX-5500 keeps all video communications crystal clear.

Add Fun to Video Calls With the Latest LifeCam Software
Both webcams come with the latest version of LifeCam software, making it easier than ever for users to have a fun video call experience. One major addition to the new software is a group of more than 30 new video effects, including 3D Accessories, Facial Exaggerations and Filters. 3D Accessories offer realistic effects that truly move with users’ faces — users can put a cowboy hat on their head or sunglasses over their eyes, and the effect will stay with them even when they turn their heads. In addition, Microsoft’s new Facial Exaggerations and Filters allow users to stretch their faces, make bug eyes or create a pointy new nose for an entertaining fun-house mirror effect using a LifeCam.

The new release also includes access to Video Messages, a totally new way to keep in touch. When friends and family are not around for a live video chat or perhaps are in a distant time zone, Video Messages is the perfect solution. LifeCam users can record and send videos through an exclusive Windows Vista gadget, and any Windows Live user can get in on the fun via an online portal. Users can see Video Messages in action at HYPERLINK "http://www.microsoft.com/hardware/video_messages_intro" http://www.microsoft.com/hardware/video_messages_intro.1

Additional features that make these webcams a great option for Windows Live Messenger users include the following:

Photo Swap. This feature allows two callers to share digital photos in midvideo conversation. Just click the Photo Swap icon, and a new window opens up next to the video call window so users can flip through the photos on their desktop and decide which pictures they want to show.1

Windows Live Call Button. Located on top of the LifeCam, the Windows Live Call Button allows users to open their Contact Picker (a tool showing which contacts are currently online) with one touch, so they can quickly initiate video calls to friends and family.1

Pricing and Availability
The LifeCam Show and LifeCam VX-5500 will be widely available in October 2008 for the respective estimated retail prices of $99.95 and $59.95.2 The webcams are available now for presale on Amazon.com and will ship in October when they are widely released. Microsoft will back the LifeCams with a worldwide, three-year limited hardware warranty. More information about the LifeCams is available at HYPERLINK "http://www.microsoft.com/hardware" http://www.microsoft.com/hardware.

Sony Launches "Designed for Walkman" Branding, World Wonders Why

Kit Eaton — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 04:16:00 EDT

That little logo there is Sony's attempt to inject a little bit of adrenaline into the Walkman lineup of PMPs, because you all need to know that the accessory you're buying is properly certified to work with Sony's proprietary WM-PORT connector. Yes, you do. Honest. Logitech thinks it's a good idea, anyway, and is due to spring a few things like speaker docks, FM transmitters and sound recorders bearing the compatibility logo in October. And clearly Sony thinks it's a good idea. Whether it shakes up the MP3 player market enough to disturb that other brand with its own "Made for..." scheme is another thing altogether. [AVWatch]

Hands on with Nyko Wing: Wii's Classic Controller Goes Wireless

Adrian Covert — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 18:20:20 EDT

Earlier today, Nyko unveiled the Wing, a wireless controller for the Wii, based on Nintendo's own classic controller. Aside from the whole no wires thing, they've put their own spin on the accessory by tweaking the ergonomics, incorporating a battery charger, and adjusting the button spacing. After spending a bit of time playing some Megaman 9 and Street Fighter II with the Wing, I think it's a suitable classic controller alternative when it hits stores in mid-October.

The big thing here I'm a fan of is the lack of wires between the Wing and the Wiimote. It's always awkward finding somewhere for the Wiimote to sit, and it frequently falls off my lap/couch/table, causing a distraction. The Wing uses a RF dongle that plugs into the bottom of the Wiimote and has a range of 10 feet. The controls generally felt as tight and responsive as the original classic controller, but did suffer the occasional glitch (Nyko attributes this to the controllers being engineering samples and assure it will not be a problem with the final product).

As far as design goes, the shape is more akin to a PS2 or Xbox 360 controller, and make the Wing fit in your hand more naturally than the classic controller. The four R buttons on top have also been adjusted and spaced so that its easier to distinguish and tap each one. The build quality is pretty decent, but not quite as nice as an official Nintendo product — which is to say that the Wing is more clicky and plastic feeling. But it's hardly a bargain bin product either.

And one of the neater additions is the mini-USB port included for charging batteries in the Wing. If you have rechargable batteries, you can plug in to a mini-USB cable and charge up the controller for another 30 hours of wireless play, making the battery process easier. As mentioned earlier, the Nyko Wing will arrive in stores around mid-October and with a $30 pricetag, it's a pretty appealing product. [Nyko on Giz]

Crayola EZ Type Keyboard: When Normal Keyboards Are Just Too Confusing

Adrian Covert — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 21:06:55 EDT

There are only four acceptable reasons I can think of for buying this $30 dollar Crayola EZ Type keyboard: 1) You're a little slow. 2) You're under the age of five (and still maybe a little slow). 3) You have a kid under the age of five (and you're both a little slow). 4) You really, reeeeally hate the offset alignment of standard keyboards. If you're not buying for any of the above reasons, you're probably a pedophile who knows no child can resist a bunch of bright colors and the Comic Sans font. Shame on you, and may God have mercy on your soul. [Crayola via Red Ferret via BB Gadgets]

PS3 Wireless Keypad Listed On Amazon With Price, Release Date

Adrian Covert — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 15:59:41 EDT

Following last week's announcement, CrunchGear found the PlayStation 3 Wireless Keypad listed on Amazon which, if accurate, will be available on November 30 for $50. The PS3's savior is near! OK, maybe not. [CrunchGear]

Dot Matrix Wallet Smears Fashion All Over Your Sweaty Pocket

Mark Wilson — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 15:40:00 EDT

We're not going to spend all day explaining why this dot matrix wallet is the best thing we've ever seen. If you don't know, then you are without joy in your life. And there's simply nothing we can do about it. However, as for its downsides, we're pretty sure there's not room for both your Visa and Diner's Club cards inside. So you'll have pare down a bit. Oh, and unlike other cult-y homemade-looking geek paraphernalia, this wallet is actually for sale for $17. [fredflare via UberReview]

Lightning Review: Logitech DiNovo Keyboard Mac Edition

Jason Chen — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 18:00:00 EDT

The Gadget: The Mac edition of Logitech's Bluetooth wireless DiNovo keyboard, which has been around in its Windows state since 2006. The Mac version has Mac-customized keys like Expose and Spotlight, as well as media playback keys and an on-board trackpad.

The Price: $159

The Verdict: High quality for a semi-premium price. The DiNovo keeps the same form factor as the old PC version, but adds Mac-centered function keys and shortcuts like Dashboard, Mail, Safari, iTunes, iPhoto, Expose and Spotlight, as well as custom playback controls, an on-board mini-trackpad, a volume slider and the obligatory command, option and control keys.

In terms of build quality, it's super stable and can stand up to quite a bit of hard typing if you've got hammer fingers. It's also on the soft side of keyboard (not like the IBM clackfests), so people who enjoy the latest Apple aluminum keyboards will definitely like this. In fact, it's probably even slightly more comfortable than Apple's, which is good, seeing as this costs about twice as as their wireless version.

There's no num pad, but even without it the keyboard takes up a not insubstantial amount of space on your desk. There's a nice docking station for recharging once a month. We'd definitely give this a thumbs up for users who type a lot to justify the $160 price tag. [Logitech]

BlackBerry Earrings Shows That You're Nerdy, Kinda Unstable

Jason Chen — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 17:40:00 EDT

Those gals looking for the best way to score a business man that's a little too attached to his BlackBerry should look no further than these BlackBerry earrings. Not only does it constantly remind him that he should check his email, it shows that you're into his techno lust, which is hard to do short of actually outfitting your own apartment in gadgets. For $19, it's the cheapest way to attract nerds in a coffee shop short of wearing a shirt that says "I dress like slave Leia on the weekends." [Etsy via Geeksugar]

Question of the Day: What Do You Carry Your Gadgets In?

matt buchanan — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 18:00:00 EDT

For a long time, I just threw all of my gear into an Eastpak backpack I'd had since high school. But my laptop got all scuffy and gross like it had been hanging out in the wrong Starbucks or something, so I finally got an actual laptop bag to keep it all protected. (Also, the backpack made me feel like I was still in high school.) Now I have a couple I rotate between depending on the mission—I like Timbuk2's huge Hacker bag for trade show survival, and a smaller one for everyday. But it's messenger all the way (as it is for most of us at Giz). What do you carry all of your gear in? And what are you lugging, anyway?

[Image via geishabot]

Brando's iPhone Battery Gets a White Version

Jason Chen — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 14:39:00 EDT

Brando's cheapest iPhone supplemental battery just got a white version today. You obviously know if you'd want one, so there ya go. Still $25. [Brando]

Lightning Review: Timbuk2 MacBook Air 'Steve Sleeve'

Adrian Covert — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 18:00:00 EDT

The Gadget: It may be seven months late to the party, but Timbuk2's Steve Sleeve is the latest MacBook Air sleeve to fashion itself in the likeness of a manila folder.

The Price: $50

The Verdict: Let me preface this by saying THE THING COSTS FIFTY DOLLARS. Yes, it's constructed in typical Timbuk2 fashion — which is to say, well — and it would sufficiently protect your Air from scratches, but it costs FIFTY DOLLARS. Ridiculous pricing aside, it's made from a durable material recycled from plastic bottles, has welded seams, and is apparently 100% recyclable. Inside, it has a soft material that keeps your Air happy. However, the Steve Sleeve isn't waterproof and provides no impact protection. So, if you really want a manila folder sleeve for your Macbook Air, this is a good choice based on quality alone. Otherwise, you're paying a decent amount for a novelty item which does the same thing a generic $10 sleeve could. [Timbuk2]

Optimus Pultius is a Leaner, Meaner, 15-key LED Pad

Adrian Covert — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 21:18:00 EDT

Fresh from the Optimus blog is the Optimus Pultius which shrinks the Optimus Maximus down to 15 keys, and is meant as an add-on to your existing keyboard setup. It's expected to be available at the end of 2008 or early 2009. No word on pricing, but hopefully a 30 year mortgage won't be a requirement. [Optimus Blog]

Make Your Old iPhone Dock Accommodate Your iPhone 3G's Bulbous Ass

matt buchanan — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 14:00:00 EDT

There's no dock in the iPhone 3G's box. And the iPhone 3G doesn't fit in the original iPhone's dock. You could pay $29 for a new one. Or you could just make the damn thing fit in the dock you already have. All you need is steady hands, a Dremel and a buffing cloth. Carve, buff, voila. Here are the happy, frugal results:

Of course, your original iPhone might not fit so harmoniously after this mod. [Hard Mac via Engadget]

Belkin Laptop Accessories Keep Your Lap Cool During Marathon Internet Surfing Sessions

Elaine Chow — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 12:00:00 EDT

Belkin has unveiled several solutions that'll help keep laptop people like me from burning our tender flesh. Come this October, the bunch of us that adamantly refuse to work from an actual desk can choose between the $64.99 CushTop Hideaway, which doubles as a laptop storage case, or the $39.99 Laptop Cooling Lounge, which uses a fan to divert heat from the body. Having used the smell of searing leg meat as a sign that I've been tethered to my computer too long, I guess I'll now have to find other ways to convince myself to get off the couch. [Belkin via Notcot]

Xbox 360's "Lips" Karaoke Game Microphone Has Motion Sensing, Vegas Lounge Lights

Jason Chen — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 19:30:00 EDT

Could the rumored upcoming "Lips" accessory + game to the Xbox 360 have the most advanced karaoke microphone for a game yet? Quite possibly. The game's made by iNiS, a team that's no stranger to music games, and features the accessory that pulses in time with your singing, plus detects how you swing it around when crooning in order to score extra points. It seems fantastic, but no amount of peripheral distractions will distract from how really awful your singing is. I mean seriously, vocal lessons aren't that expensive. [Gamekyo via Kotaku]

Mac mini Rack Lets It Hang Anywhere, Adds Front USB 2.0 Ports

matt buchanan — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 21:30:00 EDT

The Mac mini looks good because the front is completely minimal. Unfortunately, that makes the front completely useless, and a pain in the ass if you have it set up where you need spelunking gear to get to the USB ports. Enter the unfortunately named Hang With Mi, which lets you mount your mini anywhere and adds four USB 2.0 ports to the front. Downside is that it needs its own power source, but the overall neat and convenient factor definitely adds up to the $50 pricetag. [macessity via Unpluggd]

Spider-Man Sacrfices His Face to Hold Your Cellphone in a Car

Sean Fallon — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 15:00:00 EDT

Poor Spidey. His disembodied head suction-cupped to your windshield, forced to hold your mobile devices with his face. That's no way for a superhero to go out. On the plus side though, this little plastic gadget will give you a unique place to store your cellphone while keeping it at eye level in case you receive a call. Plus, it will only set you back $17.

[Gadget4all via Geekalerts]

Big Time Digital Wall Clock: You've Finally Made It, Timex Watch Guy

Mark Wilson — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 10:30:00 EDT

The Big Time Digital Wall Clock has no qualms about its place in your life. It's giving you the time. And doing it the big way. At over three feet wide and a foot and a half long, the Big Time clock features an admittedly stylish circuit board backing. Maybe we'd consider the purchase if it weren't so, you know, big. Available in four color schemes, the Big Time clock will set you back $130, but we're pretty sure that it doubles as a Big Time nightlight and Big Time tanning bulb if you're budget is smaller than your Big Time lifestyle. [Lazybone via 7Gadgets]

Touch 360 Tablet Stand: An Easel to Your Digital Canvas

Mark Wilson — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 10:45:00 EDT

Tablets are great to work with when you're walking around like you're too good to use a normal computer, but sitting at a desk can make things tricky. This stand/docking station from Touch 360 is an elegant solution to sometimes awkward tablet ergonomics. Well-stocked with USB ports and power, the stand can either make your tablet into an all-in-one PC, or it can tilt/swivel/raise into a sort of Microsoft Surface Light. Good stuff, but no word on price or availability. [Touch 360 via Gizmowatch]

What's in the iPhone 3G Box? Not as Much as You Think

Christopher Mascari — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 11:30:00 EDT

With iPhone 3G availability still a month away, inquiring minds can't help but scour the Apple site for clues. After drooling over the 3G and GPS info, we spotted a less tantalizing update: the included accessories. Where's the dock, what's up with this cheaper-looking power adapter, and was it really worth it to include a paperclip replacement?

A quick look at the bottom of Apple's iPhone 3G page shows a rundown of what's actually in the box.
Of course, the first major difference, one that Jesus already outed, was the addition of this SIM ejector tool. Beyond that, we were surprised to see that there's no dock listed. This was an included in the box with the original (way more expensive) iPhone. But now, it's a sold-separately accessory, and probably one that could cost $50—the current price of an a la carte iPhone dock. What's even more interesting, is the un-clickable link that describes it: "iPhone 3G Universal Dock Adapter 3-Pack." What the hell does "3-Pack" mean?

The disappearance of the dock from the box, isn't the last thing to change. There is now a whole new power adapter, one that doesn't look as cool. Yea, it might be more compact, but compared to the old included power adapter, one that could be fitted with different heads when traveling the world, this thing looks like it's US-only, and cost a few cents to make. Globetrotters, beware of possible added cost.

So why has Apple cut out the fancy included accessories? It could maybe sorta have something to do with that drastic slash in price. And really, it's not the first time Apple has removed in-the-box accessories when a product got cheaper.

Remember when the 4th Generation iPod came out. Before the cheaper 4G iPod, the 3G was packed with in-the-box accessories. A dock, a wired remote, a 4-pin firewire adapter and a hard-case, were all removed when the 4G took over.

Just as the 4G iPod lacked all those fancy in-the-box accessories, so does the new iPhone 3G. Sure it's not a deal breaker, but it's interesting to see how Apple subtly works its own product costs down, without many of us even noticing.

Chocolate Case for iPhone Already Past Its Sell-By Date

AddyDugdale — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 06:10:00 EDT

The ChocoCase is a sturdy case for iPhone that has an incorporated screen protector. Added to the GizFever catalog on, it says, June 10, there's one problem that I can see: it's designed for the almost-obsolete first-gen iPhone. Still, nice idea, even if it costs $30.

Personally, I'll hang on for the ChocoCase manufacturer to come up with the dog turd case for the HTC Touch Diamond. [GizFever via Technabob]

Thermalright HSC-101 PC Case: One Giant Radiator

Brian Lam — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 22:01:40 EDT

That's a photo of one side of Thermalright's prototype HSC-101 case, with a heatblock for the CPU. The other side looks identical, but it's for the GPU, and both sides can dissipate "150 Watts of heat". [TG Daily]

Agent 18 MacBook Air Shield Protects Your Darling

Mark Wilson — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 12:20:00 EDT

While stuffing the svelte MacBook Air into a case may seem to defeat the point of buying an Air in the first place, some of you will do it anyway. And this Agent 18 MacBook Air Shield looks like a decent compromise. Constructed of durable, lightweight polycarbonate, the Shield leaves your USB port and ventilation unobstructed for happy computing while reinforcing the edges and bottom for the occasional latte collision. $50 and available now. Here are some more pics:

[Agent18]

Weak, Flabby Dollar Creating Wii Fit Shortage, Could Probably Use Some Time On Wii Fit

Jack Loftus — Sun, 01 Jun 2008 21:00:00 EDT

Did you see Lam sweating it out in his Wii Fit review? Did that cause you rush out to the store, hands trembling with anticipation, in an attempt to procure one for yourself? Of course it did, but you probably came home empty-handed because the thing was basically sold out weeks before it even launched. And now we know why: the US Dollar sucks, and it's causing the notoriously conservative Nintendo to shift stock to places like Europe and Japan.

Now, before you go stringing up Nintendo, or do something really rash, like buy a PS3, consider the words of video game journalist go-to guy Michael Pachter.

"The shortage demonstrates one consequence of the weak dollar. We're seeing companies ignore their largest market simply because they can make a greater profit elsewhere," Pachter said.

Nintendo's conservative shift is just good business. According to Pachter, Nintendo has shipped approximately 500,000 copies of Wii Fit to North America, and about 2 million units to Europe. By sending four times as many units to Europe, they are maximizing profits, which at the moment are pretty incredible.

Besides, it's not as if those American waistlines are going anywhere anytime soon. "They know that Americans will be just as fat a few months from now when Nintendo will have more units available," Pachter said. [LA Times]

Cassette Watch: Best Invention Since the Mix Tape

Mark Wilson — Wed, 28 May 2008 16:50:00 EDT

WARNING: by reading about the Cassette-Face Watch, you too could lose $70 (£35) into the void of online shopping. Constructed of stainless steel and featuring dual dials (one for hours, one for minutes), its faux hand-sketched labels make this accessory transcend normal watch for a moniker more like "really great watch that looks like a cassette tape so I think it's kinda neat." [asos via BBGadgets]

Laptop Bags Soon Welcome in Airports

Mark Wilson — Tue, 27 May 2008 11:20:00 EDT

While most of us have become fine-oiled machines in working our way through airport security without shoes, belts (and thereby sometimes pants), ripping one's laptop from its safehaven in your bag and placing it, cluckily, in an X-ray tray is never a pleasant experience. Luckily, the TSA has finally decided that laptop bags that meet certain provisions will be considered X-ray friendly.

But there had to be a catch...

The TSA is only releasing guidelines to manufacturers. The organization is specifically not approving individual bags for use in their X-ray machines. In other words, many who buy "security-friendly" laptop bags may find themselves among the dirty looks of fellow travelers and TSA agents alike.

Then again, the luggage market has certainly played well with airports when it comes to carry-on baggage. But that's just a question of dimensions that can be easily simulated in any warehouse condition, not X-ray interference.

Current prototypes resemble a clamshell that can be opened and laid flat for inspection. Such a design allows the laptop to be stored in one compartment completely isolated from papers, cords or any other objects that might complicate the scan. In other words, it closely mimics the way laptops are inspected now, save for a small bit of fabric.

We'll be interested to see just how practical (i.e. padded) these cases are. Hopefully travel really will get a little bit easier. [USAToday via Consumerist][Image: Nick Veasey]

Pitfall Bag Celebrates Man's Two Passions: Adventure and Needlepoint

Mark Wilson — Tue, 27 May 2008 09:10:00 EDT

Pitfall fans with 13-inch laptops, this is your day! Over at Etsy, one artist is selling handmade needlepoint Pitfall laptop cases. Diehard Apple fanboys will notice that the featured Pitfall screen is actually from the Apple IIC version of the game. But don't worry PC-users, anyone who noticed that piece of trivia would be a fairly intolerable companion anyway. At $150 it's a doable purchase, but we're not so sure about that choice of lining. [Etsy via technabob]

Xbox 360 Pajama Pants Are Perfect for Pantsing

matt buchanan — Mon, 19 May 2008 21:00:00 EDT

These official Xbox 360 pants are 100 percent cotton with an elastic waistband, adjustable drawstring tie and an open fly (which is how Chen rolls). They're only 18 bucks, but I'm deathly afraid of what happens if you get the Red Ring of Death. [WebUndies via Max Console]

3G iPhone Case Shows Thicker, Curvier Backside (and Front-Facing Camera Too?)

matt buchanan — Mon, 19 May 2008 12:46:47 EDT

This isn't the first time we've heard that iPhone case manufacturers have gotten an early peek at the 3G iPhone, but this rendering on XSKN's site for the EXO mask iPhone 3G is obviously a bit more detailed than the rough sketches from a couple weeks ago. It lines up with them though, as well as what we've heard earlier: It's a bit thicker, with a more pronounced curve to the back, though it's hard to tell if the headphone jack is flush now. The earpiece hole spans almost the whole width of the phone—could it be for a front-face camera? Apply the usual skepticism here, but this could be plausible, given that cases will have to be ready in time for launch, so manufacturers likely already have the specs. [XSKN via Mac Rumors]

Xtand Makes iPhone Into Very Small, Underpowered iMac

Mark Wilson — Wed, 14 May 2008 15:30:00 EDT

The Xtand is a solid aluminum stand that not only holds your iPhone when your hands have better things to do, but does so in that "I'm an aluminum stand that looks like an iMac stand" kind of way. It's 100% fanboy gear, but we have to admit, the 360-degree rotation and cable management system (aka hole in the back) actually look kind of convenient. No word on price at this time. If only Jeff Foxworthy's career were alive right now, we could end this post with a decent "you might be an Apple fanboy if..." joke. Our condolences to his family. [JustMobile via MobilitySite]

Moshi Zefyr: A MacBook Heatsink On Your Lap

Adrian Covert — Fri, 09 May 2008 20:06:48 EDT

Moshi's Zefyr is a portable cooling pad for the MacBook that provides a near silent fan, powered by USB, and offers a temperature drop of roughly 6 degrees C (12 degrees Fahrenheit). The Zefyr is designed to place your MacBook at an ergonomically beneficial tilt, and when not in use, the Zefyr collapses to better fit in a bag.

The Zefyr also provides a pass-through USB port, so that peripheral use is not sacrificed. A portable cooling pad might be a little silly, but for anyone who's experienced the heat of a MacBook on their lap, and worries about going sterile, it may be useful. It's available now in black and silver colors, and sells for $75. [Moshi]

Guitar Hero: On Tour DS Bundle Coming in June

Adrian Covert — Fri, 09 May 2008 16:59:45 EDT

In a conference call today Activision said that their DS rendition of Guitar Hero will be hitting stores in June, and Nintendo was so impressed by the controller add-on, that they're allowing the hardware to be included with the game as a bundle set. Activision didn't discuss price or specific release day, but it's good knowing the game is coming sooner than later. Let's hope it's as awesome as the console version. [Joystiq]