Posts filed under 'Gadgets'
Navman has acted to keep up with the lead pack by revamping its sat nav range and coming up with the new, slimmer S-series.
There are four models in the new series, from thetop of the range S90i at £300 to the budget S30 at £150.
Navman claim over 500 enhancements including new maps, PIN codes, anti-glare widescreen displays, new slimline designs, spoken voice directions, auto dimming displays, traffic information and the now ubiquitous bluetooth connectivity.
All but the cheapest model also features Navman NavPix technology which allows you to upload geotagged pictures and download geotagged images from Flickr.
The full range:
Navman S90i: (£299.99)
- Stylish, intelligent design
- Safe, easy to use menu
- Brilliant, sharp 4.3-inch high quality touch screen
- Latest 2007.4 European maps pre-installed
- Built in real-time traffic receiver – sub free
- Integrated Bluetooth hands-free calling
- Text to Speech (TTS) – speaks “next turn” road names
- Preloaded safety camera data – free trial
- Route traffic overview
- NavPix technology – navigate to pictures
- Integrated NavPix camera
- New Navman Desktop Manager inc. Mileage reporter
- PIN code lock
Navman S70: (£199.99)
- Stylish, intelligent design
- Safe, easy to use menu
- Brilliant, sharp 4.3-inch high quality touch screen
- Latest 2007.4 European maps pre-installed
- Real time traffic information (optional)
- Integrated Bluetooth hands-free calling
- Preloaded safety camera data – free trial
- Route traffic overview
- NavPix technology – navigate to pictures
- New Navman Desktop Manager inc. Mileage reporter
- PIN code lock
Navman S50: (£179.99)
- Stylish, intelligent design
- Safe, easy to use menu
- Brilliant, sharp 4.3-inch high quality touch screen
- Latest 2007.4 Regional maps pre-installed
- Real time traffic information (optional)
- Integrated Bluetooth hands-free calling
- Preloaded safety camera data – free trial
- Route Traffic overview
- NavPix technology – navigate to pictures
- New Navman Desktop Manager inc. Mileage reporter
- PIN code lock
Navman S30: (£149.99)
- Stylish, intelligent design
- Safe, easy to use menu
- Crisp clear map display on 3.5-inch touch screen
- Latest 2007.4 Regional maps pre-installed
- Preloaded safety camera data – free trial
- Intelligent day / night display
- New Navman Desktop Manager
Source: Sat Nav Reviewer
September 18th, 2007
Navigon has unveiled its 2110 sat nav, the smallest device in the Navigon range weighing in at only 160g.
It has a small profile at just over 10×7cm giving you a 3.5 inch display.
There hasn’t been too much skimping on features either. The Navigon 2110 features live traffic updates thanks to a TMC antenna built into the charging cable and there is even a lane advisor for motorway driving.
The N2110 is priced at a reasonable 279 Euros.
Source: SatNavReviewer.com
September 3rd, 2007
As predicted yesterday, TomTom has revealed its new flagship model, the TomTom GO 920 T which comes preinstalled with complete maps of Europe and USA & Canada on the 4 GB internal memory.
The GO 920 T includes the new Enhanced Positioning Technology which results in a more continuous navigation experience. An RDS-TMC Traffic Receiver to receive up-to-date traffic information is included in the box. The TomTom GO 920 T features a slim high quality design with soft-touch finish, and a new metallic colour scheme.
“The new flagship TomTom GO 920 T offers the best in satellite navigation,” says Harold Goddijn, chief executive officer at TomTom. “Pre-installed maps of multiple continents combined with innovative technologies such as the new Enhanced Positioning Technology, TomTom Map Share and plug & play traffic information offer outstanding quality and performance. The TomTom GO 920 T is the most advanced navigation solution on the market today.”
The new TomTom GO 920 T offers a seamless map of 41 countries in both Western and Central Europe and the most-up-to-date maps of USA and Canada preinstalled on the 4 GB internal memory of the device. This makes the TomTom GO 920 T the personal navigation device with the most complete set of pre-installed maps available in TomTom’s entire navigation solution portfolio.
TomTom’s new Enhanced Positioning Technology uses movement and gravity sensors to calculate drivers’ positions when GPS signals are unavailable. TomTom GO 920 T users will have a much more continuous navigation experience as the Enhanced Positioning Technology ensures the device continues to navigate to its destination, even in circumstances where there may not be a direct line-of-sight connection to a satellite. For example, when driving in a city with tall buildings, underpasses or bridges. In addition, the TomTom GO 920 T comes with the latest version of TomTom’s award winning software and all the features of the current TomTom GO 720 and TomTom GO 520. This includes TomTom Map Share Technology to make easy changes to the map and to share map corrections with other TomTom customers so that users always have the most up-to-date maps available.
An RDS-TMC Traffic Receiver to receive up-to-date traffic information is also included in the box.
The TomTom GO 920 T comes with an improved Bluetooth remote control that is the same colour as the device. This way drivers can operate their device safely from anywhere in the car without having to reach to touch the screen.
TomTom GO 920 T replaces the current TomTom GO 910 and offers the best in navigation and performance.
On top of all new and exclusive features that the TomTom GO 920 T includes, the model comes preinstalled with the latest navigation software and features, such as:
- Large 4.3 inch touch screen with high quality graphics, an intuitive user interface and building footprints for a better overview of drivers’ surroundings;
- TomTom Map Share Technology: allowing users to instantly correct maps, share changes with other users, and benefit from improvements made by other users;
- TomTom RDS-TMC Traffic Receiver to give users the most-up-to-date traffic information (RDS-TMC Traffic Receiver comes in the box)
- Speech recognition: voice address input to easily direct drivers to millions of cities and street names; - Enhanced hands-free kit with high quality sound system to allow drivers to keep their eyes firmly on the road whilst making phone calls in the car;
- Extensive safety features including ‘Help Me’ menu to give drivers direct access to emergency services and roadside assistance;
- Most-up-to-date traffic information through TomTom’s Traffic subscription or through the TomTom RDS-TMC Traffic Receiver
- Built-in FM Transmitter to play music and navigation instructions over the car stereo;
- Clear voice instructions and text-to-speech, to enable street names, places, traffic alerts and SMS messages to be read aloud as part of the spoken instructions;
- New smart & fun extras to personalize users’ devices, including recording your own driving instructions, view documents, exchange positions via SMS and Bluetooth wireless technology and select a favourite car icon on the screen;
- TomTom desk dock to easily charge the TomTom GO 920 T and connect to a computer and TomTom HOME, TomTom’s free software application;
- Free TomTom HOME software to access ready to use online services such as Safety Cameras, Traffic and Weather;
- Full range of accessories to match the design and finish of the new GO range, including a leather carry case, a soft touch carry case, iPod cable and a home charger.
The new TomTom GO 920 T will be available in the last quarter of 2007.
Source: SatNavReviewer.com
August 30th, 2007
Watch designer Fossil has announced the availability of the Caller ID wristwatch. Incorporating Bluetooth wireless technology, the watch will simplify how people interact and engage with their mobile phones. Combining fashion forward technology with added functionality and efficiency, the Bluetooth watch enables users to stay connected without compromising style. The watch designs were adapted from top selling Fossil models.The analog/digital watch links effortlessly via Bluetooth to certain cellular phones allowing users to view incoming caller ID information on the watch face. Users are notified when their phone rings and when a text message is received. When users are unable to answer their phone, a single button press can mute or reject an incoming call. When a voicemail or text message is received, users are alerted by an icon of an envelope that appears on the watch accompanied by a slight vibration.
“Our goal for the Bluetooth watch was to create a product that enhances the lifestyle of the wearer without compromising style or usability,” said Bill Geiser, Vice President of Watch Technology at Fossil. “Watches are evolving with technology and Fossil is at the forefront of that revolution.”
Partnering with Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications, a global leader in the mobile handset industry, Fossil’s new wireless product boasts a fashion- forward design that is as attractive as it is capable. “Combining Fossil’s fashion and watch expertise with Sony Ericsson’s Bluetooth technology expertise helped us to create a smart, dynamic and fashionable watch that keeps you connected in all situations and eliminates the need to fumble through your pocket or handbag each time someone calls,” adds Geiser.
The new Bluetooth watch is available in two different brands, FOSSIL® and ABACUS(TM). The FOSSIL branded product, Fossil Caller ID (style FX6001), with black ionic plated stainless steel case and bracelet-style strap, will be available exclusively in the United States at http://www.fossil.com . The FOSSIL Caller ID is priced at an MSRP of $250.00 USD and will be available in late October.
The ABACUS branded product (MobileWear(TM) by ABACUS) comes in two styles: one with a stainless steel case and bracelet (style AU6001) and the other with a stainless steel case and black PU strap (style AU6002). The watches are expected to be available in mid-October and are priced at an MSRP of $200.00 USD. The ABACUS MobileWear watches are available in the US through Comp USA, Germany through _dug Telecom AG and in the UK through Widget UK, LTD. A full list of retailers is available at http://www.abacuswatches.com .
Additional features include a two-hand analog for easy timekeeping, vibrating alert of incoming call or SMS/MMS, Caller ID or number displayed, out of range warning (after 10 meters the watch vibrates when phone goes out of range), view phone’s time/date, simple two-button auto pairing operation, bright OLED display, reject/mute incoming calls (one button push mutes the phone’s ringer, two button pushes rejects the call), water resistant to 3 ATM, and compatibility with most Sony Ericsson Bluetooth phones. The watch also features a lithium rechargeable battery that lasts approximately 5-7 days based on conditions of use. The battery can be recharged through a USB or universal AC adapter.
September 30th, 2006
The tech industry has spent all of the last 5 years waiting for an iPod killer to emerge. Creative, Samsung and Sony have all held the title as ‘most likely to succeed’ in the past, but a new contender has emerged that might just have a chance.According to a wave of blogging Microsoft is planning a new portable music player in time for Christmas. There are no specs, there are no pictures, but there is one key fact (or rumour) that gives the Microsoft device a stick with which to beat its Apple rival.
WiFi.
Yes, the Microsoft music player may have built in WiFi allowing the exchange of music files with a PC without having to connect it via a wire.
What little detail there is has come from leaks following private briefings given by Microsoft. Those in the know claim that the screen on the new device is stunning, better than the iPod and close to the standard set by the Sony PSP.
Why would Microsoft dare to stray into Apple’s unchallenged territory?The iPod commands 77 percent of the US$4 billion US market for digital music players and iTunes controls 72% of the music download market. Bill Gates has never made any secret of his jealousy of Apple’s success in this area, credited with dragging Apple back from the brink at the turn of the century. Microsoft software already runs on portable music players from other manufacturers, but they don’t have the power of the Apple brand and Gates obviously feels that only a Microsoft branded device has any chance of gaining significant market share.
Let’s return to WiFi. Apple will shortly hold another one of its product launch press events. It is well known that Apple’s development labs have 101 iPod enhancements up their sleeves and it is inconceivable that WiFi isn’t among them. Even if Apple was not planning on introducing WiFi in the near future, the latest rumours may convince them to bring it forward. If Microsoft had its USP shot down before their player even made it to market then it’s game over.
Source: MediaCenterPCWorld.com
July 9th, 2006
iLuv is rolling out a product that makes recording video onto your fifth generation iPod blindingly easy.Dock your iPod in the iLuv i180 and it will not only charge, but can also record from any (within reason) video source such as a TV or PVR.
Operation is easy via a simple interface. The iLuv can record for a set period of time, or even be set to start recording in advance.
Expect the iLuv in August for around $200.
July 6th, 2006
My new coffee table isn’t quite as fancy as the one that has just emerged from HP’s labs. For instance, my table has a wooden top instead of a large display, which makes it perfect for supporting cups of tea, but not so great for gathering round to look at the latest holiday snaps. My table is not touch sensitive. If I press it I leave a fingerprint on its polished surface. If you touch ‘Misto’ from HP then it will interact with a PC engine inside its frame and do something clever. My table is great for playing board games, but you need to actually have a board first. Misto will let you play virtual board games.
Is Misto ever going to hit the shops? Apparentally so, according to HP.
Read more here.
February 23rd, 2006
Video Without Boundaries, a provider of interactive, media-convergent home entertainment devices, today announced it was deploying a new portable media player/recorder device named CoPilot.
The new flash-based MPEG-4 portable will retail for under $200 and features AV input recording allowing for easy connection to DVD Player, VCRs, cable and satellite set-top boxes for simple recording of TV and Movies.
“VWB has experienced tremendous success with the introduction of the Flyboy,” said Video Without Boundaries, Inc. President and CEO Jeffrey Harrell. “Based on early feedback from the retailers and our existing Flyboy customers, there is a tremendous untapped market for the price point that CoPilot will address. Video Without Boundaries recently announced our Portable Media initiative and the announcement today of the CoPilot product is the first of many projects the company plans in regard to expanding our portable product line as well as the ability to download and stream content to the devices.”
The CoPilot features video playback and recording on either an internal 512MB or 1GB flash drive. The unit memory is also expandable via its SD card slot enabling the CoPilot to store more than 6 hours of video at 320 x 240 @ 30f/s resolution. The CoPilot also supports MP3, WAV, and WMA formats and Line In Audio for simple playback and recording of music.
Other Features include:
* Internal Microphone for Voice recording
* Photo viewing
* Video output for playback of video onto TV
* Games
* Calendar
* Clock
* Built-in speakers
* FM radio
November 22nd, 2005
Breaching the final frontier in IP-based communications, Sony Electronics and Glowpoint, Inc. will be offering a new consumer version of Sony’s IVE service, or Instant Video Everywhere, powered by GlowPoint, featuring free, unlimited video and voice service for consumers worldwide.
Unlike other Internet-based communication applications currently available, the IVE service seamlessly combines the best elements of standard “Voice over IP” (VoIP) services with live, face-to-face feature-rich video-resulting in VoIP Plus, the next generation of IP-based communications. The IVE application can be downloaded for free at http://www.sonyive.com.
With the IVE (pronounced ‘Ivy’) service, consumers will no longer need to choose between traditional audio-only VoIP capabilities and desktop-based video communications. The IVE service offers a seamless experience that allows users to easily:
* Place and receive free, unlimited video and voice calls worldwide with any other IVE user anytime, anywhere.
* Place video and audio calls to cell phones, telephones, and any other traditional video or audio conferencing system.
* Communicate face-to-face beyond the home or the office from any broadband enabled location or “hotspot” - including coffee shops, hotels, airports, college dorms, and more.
Began with Video and Added the Best of Standard VoIP
Together, Sony and GlowPoint have already delivered millions of video usage minutes to thousands of users worldwide. The new IVE service now offers users the best of video and voice communications - including IVE “All You Can See and Say” Unlimited Calling Plans - shifting ear-to-ear conversations to face-to-face communications.
“With millions of Americans already using the Internet for voice-only communications, the demand already exists for something even better– the ability to talk online while seeing each other ‘face-to-face’,” said David Trachtenberg, chief executive officer at GlowPoint. “By continuing to innovate with Sony we are bringing a seamless communications experience to people around the world.”
No More “Islands of Video”
With the IVE service, customers are no longer limited to talking only to other video users on the same proprietary service. The IVE service’s patent-pending standards-based technology allows all IVE users to directly contact all other standards-based video users and even those who do not have video access or webcams. This solves the “islands of video” obstacle that previously restricted wide-scale use of video communications. Instead, the IVE service offers the ability to place free, unlimited ‘audio only’ video calls to anyone, anywhere in the world with no long distance charges or per call fees.
Telephone-Like Features, Reliability and Ease of Use
The IVE service replicates the traditional telephone experience, making IP-based video and voice communications as easy to use as placing a phone call. The IVE service’s patent-pending features include:
* Personal Video Numbers: IVE users each get their own personal video number with which they can easily place and receive video and audio calls.
* Multi-Person Calling: Users can include up to six people in an audio or video conversation.
* Video Call Mailbox: Video and voice callers can leave a video or voice message when an IVE user is not available. IVE users can also personalize their full-motion video outgoing messages.
* Live Video Operators: Users have “one-click” access to a Live Video Operator available for directory assistance, call transfer and more.
* MyIVE User Portal: Allows real-time online call detail, access to Video Call Mailbox messages, and more.
* “Lisa,” the IVE Video Call Assistant: With “Lisa,” a friendly face alerts you when your outgoing calls can not be completed because the person you’re trying to reach is unavailable or the number may not be correct.
* IVE Video Portal: Instant access to previews of feature motion pictures, special promotions for new Sony products, IVE service updates, video customer service and more.
Real World Applications
Translated into everyday applications, the IVE service means late-working or traveling parents can check in on their kids at home using real-time, high-quality video directly from their desktop. Grandparents and grandchildren living in different parts of the world can see and talk to each other. Online daters can see each other face-to-face before meeting in person. Online multi-player gamers can add full-motion video to communicate better between competitors and teammates. Teenagers can show each other what they are wearing to a big party and online poker players can literally “see” if someone is trying to bluff them or not.
“The launch of the IVE service as a free, unlimited use service is a communications watershed moment for consumers–an instantaneous, easy-to-use application that brings people together by literally putting them in the same room,” said Eric Murphy, vice president for integrated visual communications at Sony Electronics. “The IVE service is the result of a shared vision projecting how video will continually evolve as an integral tool that people use to communicate in their daily lives.”
The Sony IVE service, powered by GlowPoint, also offers rich, multi-function upgrades that are packaged into affordable flat-rate monthly services that range from less than $10 a month - or less than $0.35 a day - to $19.95 for advanced, professional grade users.
November 17th, 2005
This gadget is so bizarre and so pointless that it had us checking the calendar to make sure that it wasn’t April 1st. Orange and PG Tips have joined forces (if that doesn’t sound like an unholy alliance then nothing does) to produce a kettle that you can switch on via text message.
The ReadyWhenUR (nice use of txt there guys) actually uses a set of mechanical levers to switch on the power when you text it with the phrase ‘SWITCH ON’.
This strange mechanisation of the process left a lot of technology commentators a little bit flummoxed, until they realised that the whole thing is a Wallace and Gromit tie-in, and as you all know, Wallace would never use an electronic circuit when a set of 10 levers, a rope pulley and a giant boxing glove could do the job just as well. Whether it’s an official tie-in is unclear, but PG Tips and Orange must be pleased with the publicity that their useless gadget is getting.
So let’s be clear. This kettle allows you to remove the heinous step of actually hitting the switch yourself from the water-boiling equation. You still have to fill the kettle, plug it in and make the tea in situ - and pay 10p for the privilege.
If anyone from Orange or PG Tips wants to contact us to explain what this is all about, please feel free.
October 10th, 2005
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