05/25, 9:50pm
Company founded by ex-Apple VP Tony Fadell
Numerous reports claim that the Learning Thermostat from Nest will be available at Apple retail stores shortly. Nest is a company formed around developing and marketing the thermostat by Apple's former senior vice president and original iPod architect Tony Fadell. The thermostat is listed in Apple inventory databases, but MacNN has confirmed no stock is available to purchase at this time.
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05/25, 10:19am
iOS speaker dock doubles as a place to rest your derriere
UK furniture retailer DFS is offering the Trophy Cuddler Audio Sofa that has built-in speakers and a dock for Apple's iPhone and iPod touch. The sofa has two speakers and a subwoofer, though their power ratings aren't being listed. Other than docking iOS devices, there is also a USB port and 3.5mm auxiliary input for other audio sources.
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05/22, 8:05pm
INRIX Traffic 4.0 released for iPad, iPhone
INRIX, an app-enabled traffic data collector, has introduced a new version of its iOS app to assist drivers in daily commutes. INRIX Traffic 4.0 features four new features. The new version of the application adds real-time traffic tracking features to the iPhone such as those found in high-end automobiles from Audi, Ford, and Toyota. INRIX Traffic 4.0 can work Google Maps with a $25 in-app purchase to visually show the fastest routes to home and work, analyzes traffic to give drivers recommended departure with accurate travel times, easy sharing of INRIX arrival times to any contact, and personalized traffic alerts. The new version of the app is available now.
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05/22, 4:31pm
Bluetooth 4 added to MetaWatch dev kit for iPhone 4s connectivity
Meta Watch has officially released a new smartwatch development system with Bluetooth 4.0, capable of integrating with both iOS and Android devices. A previous beta was limited to Android only. In iOS, an app pushes basic notifications to the watch for things like calls and messages. Developers have access to an API, though, which will let their own apps push virtually any information.
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05/22, 12:35pm
Global-ready Verizon Jetpack 890L 4G hotspot will cost $20 on contract, after rebate
Verizon Wireless will begin offering the ZTE-made Jetpack 890L 4G LTE hotspot online and in stores on May 24. The device was introduced at CES in January and was since approved by the FCC. It is made for world travelers thanks to support of multiple bands, including CDMA, EVDO, 3G, and Verizon's 4G LTE.
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05/22, 3:45am
Kickstarter runs through June 7
High-quality covers for the iPad are a prevalent accessory. Once relegated to boutique status, they can now be had for a variety of prices ranging from $40 to over $100. The official Apple case for the iPad 2 and current-generation iPad sits at the low end of the range financially. When a new product shows up that's competitively priced with Apple's offering, it's worth a look. An already fully-funded Kickstarter project by Washington DC metro-area Salman Sajid is still underway, and MacNN got an early look at the product that carries both any generation of iPad as well as an Apple Bluetooth keyboard.
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05/22, 2:18am
Tablet P replaces 'the envelope please' at awards
Yesterday's 2012 Billboard Music Awards in Las Vegas replaced the traditional "red envelope," instead using a Sony Tablet P model to read the names of winners. Because the tablet uses a folding design, it was ideal to recreate the "reveal" moment while giving it a digital update. The awards were hosted by Modern Family's Julie Bowen and Ty Burrell, and featured noteworthy tributes to Whitney Houston and Donna Summer, the latter of whom died unexpectedly just last week. UK pop star Adele was the biggest winner, collecting 12 of the 46 awards given out. The Sony Tablet P sells for $399 with a two-year AT&T contract.
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05/17, 6:58pm
Three feet tall, bluetooth streaming, with universal iOS device dock
Accessory maker iHome announced a new product in its growing line of home audio accessories. The new iP76 is a LED color changing tower stereo speaker system. Audio sources can be provided by an iOS device, other wireless devices with Bluetooth version 1.2 compatibility, or any device with a line out jack.
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05/17, 10:51am
Nintendo DS works with Toyota in-car navigation for control, more
At a press conference in Tokyo on Wednesday, Toyota showed off its upcoming Estima Hybrid minivan. At the same time, equipping the van with an aftermarket Smart Navi NSZT-W62G GPS head unit will let a Nintendo DS control the GPS system of the car, 4gamer reported. The DS needs to have a Kuruma de DS (meaning Use DS in the car) cartridge inserted, which allows the portable games console to communicate with the head unit over Bluetooth.
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05/16, 5:32pm
Minor upgrade makes Bamboo more practical
Recently MacNN had a chance to test out the Bamboo Stylus duo, a newer version of Wacom's popular stylus for the iPad -- and by extension, other capacitive touchscreen devices. The duo adds an ink pen into the mix, occupying the tip opposite a rubber one meant for touchscreens. This may make the stylus more practical for some people, since it means always having a pen handy for writing checks or quick notes, or at least one less pen sitting in your bag.
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05/16, 3:51pm
Project Glass to be higher in field of view according to Google
Google has admitted that its Project Glass wearable display interface currently does not resemble what is shown in the demo video. The admission comes the same day the search giant patents the design of the Project Glass prototypes, showing what a prescription variant would look like.
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05/15, 5:45pm
AirPrint support expanded
A new line of iPhone-controlled RC Cars has been launched by iHelicopters.net. Models include a range of popular Audi and BMW cars such as the Audi Q7, Audi R8, BMW X6, and BMW 5 Series. Each car includes a RF transmitter that connects to an iOS device via the headphone jack and allows users to control the car from up to 20 meters away. The new BMW and Audi models are set at $60 each including free worldwide shipping.
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05/15, 10:51am
KDDI Smart TV Box will run on Android 4.0, connect to cloud service
Japanese hardware maker KDDI announced this week it will begin consumer testing of a new Smart TV Box this summer. The device will run on Android 4.0 and connect to HDTVs and enable sharing of content between Android smartphones and tablets. Other details are scarce, though some form of web access is more than likely.
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05/14, 11:50am
GoPro Dive housing now available for pre-order
GoPro has just announced that its Dive Housing is now available for pre-order. Compatible with all GoPro HD cameras, the housing is waterproof up to 197 feet (60m). The flat glass lens is said to offer sharpness and no vignetting effect.
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05/11, 3:57pm
Galaxy S III accessories shown off by Samsung
Samsung has gone ahead and released official images of the accessories it will offer for its Galaxy S III smartphone. This includes the C-Pen, which looks somewhat thicker than the pen bundled with the Galaxy Note. The soft flip cover is also seen, as is the Wi-Fi Display Hub, which will let users charge the handset while outputting its content over a full-sized HDMI port.
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05/09, 10:45pm
Active Network launches two campsite reservation apps
Outdoor enthusiasts will now be able to make reservations for campsites at national parks, forests and other recreational facilities through the release of two new apps for iOS. The ReserveAmerica camping app (free) lists nearby state campground sites, and provides information on sites, RV restrictions, tent and cabin use and other options.
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05/09, 12:36pm
OfficeJet 150 battery is said to be good for 500 printouts
HP also introduced two new printers in Shanghai, with the portable all-in-one OfficeJet 150. It's meant to be taken along on trips with notebooks. It can print, scan, and copy letter-sized pages and has a built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery.
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05/09, 11:47am
New 1080p IPS LED monitor will cost $240 in June
At its press event in China, HP showed off an upcoming HD monitor, the 23-inch 2311xi. It uses In-Plane Switching technology for the LED backlight to make the colors sharper and the viewing angles wider. Connections are generous and include a VGA, DVI-D and HDCP-compliant HDMI inputs.
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05/09, 10:24am
Samsung looking for third-party supplier to maker Galaxy S III charger?
The official wireless charger for the Galaxy S III unveiled last week won't ship until September, learned from UK retailer Mobile Fun, who will sell the accessory. That's between about three and four months later than the phone's launch, depending on which market one's in. Included in the kit is a replacement rear battery cover that likely adds thickness to the handset and a desk cradle that will wirelessly charge the device.
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05/09, 7:28am
Brookstone to offer portable USB fuel cell charger
Retailer Brookstone is working with MIT spin-off Liliputian Systems to deliver a palm-sized portable fuel cell USB charger. The device will offer mobile users the ability to charge their smartphone up to 14 times for around two-weeks of use free from a wall charger. Like the similar Powertrekk portable fuel-cell charger, the Brookstone device uses replaceable fluid-filled cartridges to continue delivering charges after the initial cartridge is depleted.
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05/09, 2:03am
Four-color unit comes with Coupons.com offers
In a flurry of product announcements from Shanghai, HP introduced one new All-in-One (AIO) printer, a replacement for the current 5510 called the 5520 that addresses all the significant omissions of the previous model, mainly the duplexing and layout support. The 5520 e-All-in-One features a new automatic duplexer for easy two-sided support, along with options for booklet and multi-page printing. Wireless mobile printing is also supported.
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05/08, 7:05pm
MetalDock iPhone charger hugs iPhone
Bracketron have unveiled the MetalDock charging dock for iPhone 4 and 4S. The curved L-shape dock was revealed at the same time as the Mushroom GreenZero battery charger at CTIA Wireless. The MetalDock is a curved metal combination dock for charging and synching, while the Mushroom GreenZero is an energy-conscious wall charger suitable for world travel.
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05/08, 4:59pm
Card payment system goes up against Square
PayAnywhere has declared that it will start shipping its own credit card reader later this month. Backed by North American Bancard, the mobile payment system will attempt to compete against other recent launches with a "free" card reader, and no monthly fee.
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05/07, 10:25pm
Garmin updates Fit iOS app
The Garmin Fit iOS app ($1 in the App Store) was updated today, adding a new feature, LiveTrack. With the feature addition, users can set up tracking sessions and share their training sessions over Facebook and Twitter. The update also includes optimizations for running the app on iPads.
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05/07, 1:59pm
Extensions for Sony SmartWatch made open source
Two extensions for the Sony SmartWatch have been released as open source in an attempt to foster app development for the device. The 8 Game extension, a simple game based on sliding tiles to reorganize a picture, shows potential developers how they could create their own titles that can run on the timepiece. The Music extension permits the accessory to control music playback on the linked phone through supported media players, letting existing programming teams add SmartWatch functionality to their software.
Parties interested in developing for the $150 SmartWatch can download the SDK from Sony, with a further request from the electronics giant to suggest other extensions to release as open source.
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05/04, 4:08pm
Swivl-it loses some features, $50 from the price
Swivl, maker of the self-titled mount for smartphones with digital cameras that pans to follow a speaker during a voice conference, has introduced a basic version of the gadget, Swivl-it. Unlike the $179 full-blown version, the $129 model doesn't have a digital wireless microphone included and is missing one motor that allows for vertical adjustment. Users can still tilt it by hand, however, but it won't adjust itself as they get up or sit down.
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05/03, 6:26pm
Speaker system meets iPad case meets iPad stand
Electronics manufacturer Bang & Olufson has announced the impending release of the Beoplay A3, a stylish iPad accessory that serves as a speaker system, an iPad case, and an iPad stand. The accessory, which effectively turns an iPad into a television or stereo system, is available for pre-order, though no release date is available.
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05/03, 3:58pm
Logitech releases Global Graffiti accessories
Logitech has released its Global Graffiti line of colorful computer accessories. The line covers the Logitech M310 and M325 wireless mice, as well as the K360 wireless keyboard. Customers will be able to choose from seven stylish patterns from international designers. Products in the line range from $30 to $40, depending on the model.
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05/03, 2:02am
Coated canvas, poly models offer weather protection
Clear Laptop Sleeve maker Altego has expanded its product line with new notebook bags and cases designed for the MacBook line and iPad but suitable for other, similar-sized notebooks and tablets. The two lines, featuring a coated canvas Cyan and channel-stitched Ruby series, offer quilted inner linings to protect the devices, custom-molded waffle-design back waffle back padding, a flannel-lined inner iPad pocket, seat-belt webbing shoulder straps and more.
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05/03, 1:45am
Aimed at corporations, churches, schools
The Epson PowerLite-series projectors has been dramatically expanded with six new models added to the line. The new models are optimized for medium-sized boardrooms, classrooms, and churches. Two of the models can also be controlled remotely via iOS or Android apps.
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05/02, 11:13pm
Aimed at educational market, legacy display tech
Apple and iOS device accessory maker Kanex launched a VGA output solution for the AppleTV and any other HDMI device today -- the Kanex ATV Pro. The device is tailored towards adapting the HDMI output of the AppleTV (or other HDMI device) to a more standard VGA plus audio prevalent in educational institutions' projectors.
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05/02, 7:25pm
Chargers for iPhone, iPad, mini-USB devices
Accessory maker Hammacher Schlemmer is currently shipping an oxford woven cloth business case. An included 6000 mAh lithium-ion battery can charge an iPhone up to three times before requiring a 3.5-hour charge itself.
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05/02, 6:00pm
SalesVu updated to 2.0 includes receipt printing
SalesVu has updated its mobile payment application for iPhone and iPad to version 2.0, enabling additional retail-related functionality. Employee shift management, barcode scanning, and receipt printing have been added, along with a simplified end-of-day process. Food service users can split checks and relay orders to the kitchen through the app. SalesVu made the updates while facing competition from competing payment system Square, which is reportedly aiming for a $4 billion valuation.
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05/02, 11:58am
AOC e2251Fwu has no other connections than USB
Display maker AOC is finally shipping its USB-powered e2251Fwu monitor that was introduced last June. The 21.5-inch, 1080p LED monitor gets both signal and power through a USB 2.0 connection, making it ideal for use as a secondary display. The monitor is just 10.6mm thick and sports a detachable stand.
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05/01, 12:00pm
Five new activity-oriented mounting kits, Watersports camera combo out
Contour, the rugged adventure sports camera maker, has just announced the addition if five mount kits and a new ContourRoam Watersports kit. The Watersports kit includes the Roam HD camera and a waterproof case and a few mounts for it, allowing shooting at up to nearly 200 feet (60m) under water. It is priced at $250.
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05/01, 2:00am
Preorders ship May 15
Jawbone published details of the rumored Big Jambox today. Preorders start today for the larger cousin to the original Jambox.
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05/01, 1:00am
Expands Griffin Technology's mobile offerings
Featuring the ability to pair with two Bluetooth phones, the Griffin Technology SmartTalk Solar hands-free speakerphone uses a built-in solar panel to keep the device's battery charged for longer than a conventional battery-powered Bluetooth unit. The device began shipping on April 26.
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04/30, 2:55pm
NFC enabled streaming from phone to car, stereo
BlackBerry owners will soon have a new option for streaming music wirelessly from their handsets to a range of audio devices. RIM has set a release date for the BlackBerry Music Gateway, an accessory that relies on NFC and Bluetooth technology to stream from smartphones and tablets to home and car stereo systems. The device will begin shipping in June for $50.
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04/30, 9:45am
Folio changes to new stand system
Accessory maker SwitchEasy has released an updated version of the CARA, one its iPad cases. The upgrade mainly addresses compatibility with the third-generation iPad, while still supporting the iPad 2. It also however uses a new vertical stand system, said to allow landscape viewing at multiple angles.
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04/27, 1:05pm
NI announces new REAKTOR instrument
Elgato has announced the upcoming launch of a new Thunderbolt cable designed specifically for mobile use. The flexible 50cm cable supports the full data transfer speeds of up to 10Gbit/s on both channels, and at the same time can provide power to devices. The Elgato Thunderbolt Cable will be available on May 3 at a cost of $60. Additionally, Elgato will be including a free cable with every Thunderbolt SSD purchased from the online store before May 6.
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04/27, 12:25pm
May face uphill fight after Apple patent win
A Colorado resident, Jerald Bovino, has filed a new lawsuit against Apple, claiming that the company's Smart Cover infringes a 2005 patent. Bovino owns patent 6,977,809, which describes a "Portable Computer Case." One similarity between the patent concept and the Smart Cover is a series of visible "rib" lines.
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04/27, 12:05am
Takes picture, posts it on Google+
Google X (formerly Labs) founder Sebastian Thrun debuted a real-world use of his latest endeavor Project Glass during an interview on the syndicated Charlie Rose show which aired yesterday, taking a picture of the host and then posting it to Google+, the company's social network. Thrun appeared to be able to take the picture through tapping the unit, and posting it online via a pair of nods, though the project is still at the prototype stage at this point.
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04/26, 1:25pm
iPad Document Hub announced
Pre-orders for a limited edition ceramic white LIL KIKR+ are now being accepted through Kickstarter. The LIL KIKR+, which is expected to begin shipping in June, is a portable dock for the iPhone and iPod touch that naturally amplifies the devices built-in speaker. A $60 pledge entitles donors to the limited edition LIL KIKR+, as well as free shipping within the US. International orders are also being taken, but require an additional $15 for shipping.
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04/26, 2:45am
Kickstarter project can also include speakers
On the heels of a similar-looking Japanese keyboard case for the iPad 2, a new Kickstarter project aims to introduce a high-grade aluminum-based Bluetooth case called Brydge that when paired with an iPad closely resembles the body, thickness and weight of a MacBook Air. The main selling point of the Brydge is the unibody aluminum style (as opposed to the metal-painted plastic of the Japanese NotebookCase), along with a "click-in" hinge that allows both a wide range of positioning options and secure carrying.
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04/25, 4:30pm
Samsung ships 14mm thick external DVD burner
Samsung's optical disc drive division has just unveiled what it touts as the industry's skinniest external DVD burner. The SE-218BB is 0.55 inches (14mm thick), or 18 percent thinner than regular DVD burners. The smaller size also translates to weight savings, as the company said it's eight percent lighter than its standard external burners.
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04/25, 2:20pm
Samsung readies to ship AllShare Cast Hub
Once again, the FCC has offered a look at an upcoming piece of hardware, this time from Samsung. Called AllShare Cast Hub, it sports an HDMI connection and dual-band Wi-Fi radios, for what we assume is sharing media in a user's home. It may thus be similar to the likes of HTC's Media Link HD, which lets users stream content from smartphones to their TVs.
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04/25, 1:05pm
AeroPad Two pre-orders go live, priced at $920
Those who have wanted to spend more on their dock than the iPad itself now have the option thanks to Jarre's AeroPad Two. It is nearly three feet wide and sports four exposed 30W speakers along with one 80W subwoofer. Users can also connect iPhones and iPod touch devices, and get a USB port for playing music when they want to use their iOS device.
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04/25, 1:00pm
Smaato outs updated SDK
Griffin Technology has teamed up with Crayola to launch a line of kid-friendly headphones and cases for the iPod touch. The Crayola MyPhones are fully adjustable, volume-limiting earbuds and headphones that have been designed to comfortably fit children. The earbuds are offered in four colors, purple pizzazz, cotton candy, caribbean green, and blue berry at a cost of $15 each, while the headphones are sold in two color combinations for $25. Meanwhile, two case designs, Color Clickers and Crayon Classics, are being offered online for $25 each.
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04/24, 1:35pm
Realtree Commuter Sereies
RunRev has announced the next course in its series of free online mobile app development classes, LiveCode Small Business App Academy. The course will run from May 1 until the 31 and provides students with short daily videos that are delivered via e-mail. Topics covered will include database and cloud access, monetization, working with rich media, push notifications, and more. In addition to the videos, signing up for the course also provides users with a free 30-day trial of LiveCode.
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04/23, 11:50pm
Production ramps up May 6
With the help of a successful Kickstarter campaign, Revolve is soon to ship an inexpensive camera dolly system. Compatible with nearly any camera, the system can be used to generate a wide variety of shots and angles and can be used either tracked or on any surface. The initial Kickstarter price for the basic system is $70, other accessories compatible with the Revolve camera dolly are available at additional charge.
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