Ambient unveils Market Maven wireless stock tracker

Ambient Devices today released its Market Maven device for home investors who want a quick glance at the stock market without the trouble of most computer-based options. Similar to the Forecast Umbrella, the Maven takes its data over traditional radio airwaves rather than resorting to short-range Wi-Fi or a costly cellular link. This evades the need for specialized software, a subscription, or any setup at all, according to Ambient. The system provides average figures and graphs for the three major US markets as well as individual stocks; it can automatically sync its clock and knows when to switch from its normal 15-minute periodic coverage to a summary after the markets close.

With a three-inch monochrome screen, the Maven is miserly enough to run on three AAA batteries and small enough to use magnets to cling to a refridgerator or a whiteboard's edge. Ambient says the device ships today and should be available now for $125.