electro^plankton

iHologram is an iPhone application that makes the screen look like a window to a real parallel dimension. It uses an old technique called anamorphosis where 2D images are drawn distorted to look 3D when viewed at a 45 degree angle.

The neat thing is the iPhone's gyroscopes allow the image to dynamically change to keep the 3D effect now matter how you tilt the screen.

So when can you download it? Hopefully soon.

Posted by tranism at 7:41 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

August 20, 2008

Tabbed Mobile Phone by KDDI au

Making sure to flex its concepting muscles, KDDI au just announced their PLY mobile phone concept inspired by sandwiched plywood. Each section is tabbed to core functions like a dialpad, keyboard, gamepad, touchscreen, pico project, and printer! Will it ever see the light of day? Hard to say. Miniaturizing some of those proposed functions seems beyond what science and technology can achieve now but never underestimate the Japanese.

More pics after the jump.

Posted by tranism at 11:47 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

August 10, 2008

Air compressed cars coming to the U.S.

Oh snap ya'll! Zero Pollution Motors is planning to bring their air compressed powered cars to the United Stated in 2010. Air Cars operate on the principle of compressed air which produce no pollution. Air Cars only travel 35 mph but can reach 90 mph with the help of a small engine but produce half the emissions of a Prius. Maybe not the best vehicle for highway passing but perfect for everyday commuters.

via Gearfuse

Posted by tranism at 3:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)

August 6, 2008

Hello Geordi La Forge

A new artificial cornea developed by mad hatters at Standford University could be one step in the right direction towards possessing Geordi La Forge awesomeness. The polymer based cornea has not been tested on humans but shows promise in animal studies.

Developed by chemical engineer Curtis W. Frank, PhD, the cornea is made of two interwoven polymer gels, similar to the materials used in soft contact lenses. One layer is exceptionally strong while the other is able to absorb a tremendous amount of water. The result is a transparent, highly permeable substance with a water content similar to that of the natural cornea.

P.S. Somebody get this guy a manicure and cuticle creme statim!

Posted by tranism at 11:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

August 4, 2008

SlingPlayer for iPhone, where are you?

Back in June Sling Media showed off their place-shifting TV software on a jailbroken iPhone with promises of a legit version coming soon. All the initial reviews were position and Sling Media themselves gave the iPhone nothing but praise for its large bright screen and fast cpu/graphics chip.

It's now August and still no SlingPlayer. Hurry up! I need my TV on the go!

Posted by tranism at 2:03 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)

August 2, 2008

A camera for the blind

One of the 2008 International Design Excellence Awards (IDEA) winners is the Touch Sight camera. When we think of cameras, we think of recording bouncing photons off mirrors. So how would a visually impaired person use this? This camera records sounds and displays imagery via 3D embossing allowing the person to relive the moment by two other senses, hearing and touch. Just brilliant!

Posted by tranism at 6:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)

July 28, 2008

Philips webcam makes me hate spiders even more

This wireless Philips webcam by Flynn Product Design gives me the creeps. Fortunately my nightmarish dreams won't come true since it doesn't actually move. The legs are just there to help you reposition the camera in weird angles, perfect for those umm. . . voyeuristic captures.

Posted by tranism at 12:21 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

July 24, 2008

It's about frackin' time

The Wii is finally getting a really good charger. Sure there are options from Nyko but it takes forever, the technology isn't very smart, and you have to remove the controller from its protective silicon jacket which is a chore - trust me.

Nintendo teamed up with Sanyo to use their eneloop battery technology (best batteries IMHO) to create a solution that not only allows charging with silicon on, but smart enough to be daisy chained for sequential charging. Eneloop batteries are also far more environmentally safe than other lithium ions. Unfortunately you won't find it outside Japan for awhile.

Any readers in Japan willing to ship me the unit if I pay for everything?

via Akihabaranews

Posted by tranism at 12:24 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

July 12, 2008

What's on my iPhone 2.0?

iPhone 2.0 is basically what Apple wanted the original iPhone to be. I'm not even talking about the new hardware upgrades. I'm talking about the user interface and the addition of user-installed applications. I've already found a bunch I'm using constantly. The whole experience is flawless; light years ahead of Symbian, Palm, and WinMo; mainly because Apple is such a controlling company - it works in their favor since all the apps adhere to user interface guidelines. Check out what apps I'm using after the jump.

Okay shocker! MySpace is so much better on the iPhone. It's totally stable, extremely user friendly without sacrificing any of its features. Best part is I don't have to see Design 101 profiles or annoying ads. With this app, there's no point in hitting up the http version.

AIM in nothing new on the iPhone tho previous iterations were all web based 3rd party versions, this official app comes direct from AOL. It's snappy, useable, and makes it super easy to stay in contact with friends. As you can see, icons, status, and nicknames are all intact.

Jott is probably my most used app. Think of it as a memo recorder that transcribes what you say into written text which are then stored in notation form you can organize into lists. How fucking handy is that??? In fact one of my notes was to write this post.

Remote lets you control your iTunes library. . . wait for it. . . remotely, so long as you have a Wi-Fi connection. Your entire library appears in all its glory - playlists, album covers, and search. The response is instantaneous. I often have music playing as I do things around the house so now that my iPhone is a remote, changing what's playing is literally a few taps away.

My friends and I watch a lot of movies. Calling 1-800 MoviePhone seems so 90's and checking the newspaper is way before my generation. Checking listings on the phone wirelessly complete with geo-location is now. Box Office gives me movie listings and theater information based on my current location. Snazzy!

Twitter was never meant to be complicated and has always seemed, at least to me, to be better suited for a mobile device. I mean the idea is to always know what's on your mind right? Twitterific echoes that mantra and keeps everything clean and easy to use. It's works exactly how you'd expect. I love knowing what all my friends are doing at any given moment because I'm kinda stalkerish like that.

I'm an eBay junkie so I know all about being outbid in the last few moments when I can't get to a computer. Now with it on my iPhone, I'm always up to tabs because shopping is in my vocab, not losing.

I'm a little OCD about making lists, especially Shopping Lists. This app is super easy and basic. You write down everything you need to buy and how much of it. As you put those items in your cart, tick it off your list. Easy-peezy.

Exposure is a photo app that ties into flickr. If you're a flickr user then you'll definitely want this. All your sets are intact and searchable. You can even view comments but perhaps the weirdest feature is the "Near Me" button. Tap it and you'll find photos taken around your current location.

Loopt is an geo-based status social app. It knows where you and your friends are at anywhere in the city and tells you what they're doing. You can even snap photos to help further illustrate that point. It sounds a little Big Brother but remember, this only works thru your approved friend's list so stalking that hot girl (or boy) from your local coffee shop is not going to work.

The iPhone never had a radio but I actually prefer it that way because there are tons of software based solutions that deliver radio stations from all around the world with the added benefit of sorting exactly what you want to hear and Pandora is my favorite way to do so. You just tell it whom your favorite artists and songs are and it generates a very high quality radio stream straight thru the magic of Wi-Fi and iPhone. It's even smart enough to guess what new music you might like based on your previous selections.

Facebook for iPhone works just like the web app version except it's a bit snappier and integrates chat. If you're a Facebook junkie, definitely download this.

Posted by tranism at 2:21 PM | Permalink | Comments (7)

July 9, 2008

Google launches Lively

Lively by Google is a new product available in Google Labs. Create an avatar and chat with your friends in rooms you design.

No matter how you slice it, technology companies want us all to interact in virtual spaces. Sooner or later it will finally happen.

Posted by tranism at 1:52 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

I'm singing in the rain

The Bluetooth Umbrella is my wet dream, literally. I'm always on the damn phone and the ability to talk handsfree into the handle is just aces. It also doubles as a radio for those times when I. . . okay I hardly ever listen to the radio but hey, it doesn't hurt to have it.

Just don't call me crazy when you see me walking down the street in pouring rain talking into my umbrella handle. I'm not crazy!

via Yanko Design

Posted by tranism at 12:46 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

July 3, 2008

Teddy bear cell phones? Do Want!

Japan's AU KDDI just launched their "art meets innovation show" in Harajuku called the Mobile in Forest Exhibition. Various artists have showcased their innovative representations of the cell phone.

Housed in the now famous futurist gallery space designed by Tadao Ando (formerly occupied by HHStyle), the show features a polyurethane rubber “socket-deer” and a “HOLDING BEAR CHARGER” allowing you to recharge your phone in style. While not over-the-top in terms of sci-fi themes, the merging of nature and technology via art points towards an inevitable future when all this tech blends seamlessly into the background and, as Arthur C. Clarke once said, begins to appear as magic.

Pic Newlaunches and DVICE

Posted by tranism at 2:20 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Singing sock puppets

These musical hand puppets by Matthew Irvine Brown look irresistibly fun to play with. Sensors in the puppets mouth measure how wide it's open and that data is converted to a musical scale.

These puppets can be tuned to sing in any scale or mode. At the minute their voices come from a small Max/MSP patch and some very basic electronics, but he can also be rigged up to be a MIDI controller. They can help illustrate relatively complex musical theory - such as the differences between blues, chromatic and pentatonic scales - through play and storytelling

via Make

Posted by tranism at 12:20 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)

June 20, 2008

I hear singing frogs because I'm sick

This isn't new but somehow I only discovered it. This is what happens when you're laid out in bed sick. You get hypnotized by a singing frog. I'm serious ya'll. This isn't the codeine talking. Keromin is a theremin stuffed inside a plush frog. His arms and mouth manipulate the amplitude and pitch ofsound able to hit every note on a scale.

For educational purposes, "kero" means frog in Japanese. "Min" is from theremin. Simple enough. Keromin is currently sold in Japan only. Any of my Japanese readers willing to send me one? I am sick remember? "cough cough."

Posted by tranism at 1:40 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

June 6, 2008

Mask of Emotions

The "Mask of Emotion", a project from the Digital Media Design Dept at Hongik University in Korea, trades facial expressions for LED emoticons. The default setting is no expression, but if people shake hands with the wearer, the mask smiles. The project was designed to hide personal emotions by eliciting a different set of public facial expressions that could be used to generate conversation and response in public spaces.

Posted by tranism at 5:20 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Putting the Speak in Speaker

Speech bubbles made into speakers. Clever and a product that should have been conceived a long time ago. Designed by Sherwood Forlee.

via Yanko Design

Posted by tranism at 5:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

How Does A Stormtrooper Go On Holiday?

Speaking as a former Imperial Stormtrooper myself, I can tell you I love my Nereus craft. Designed by the brilliant Mathias Koehler, this waverunner is totally kite powered, way quieter than those speeder bikes. This fuel free craft provides hours of fuel free fun above and below the water. Steering is managed via foot pedals while the handlebars pivot the craft forward/backwards. Most importantly it matches my armor - white and post modern.

via Yanko Design

Posted by tranism at 5:06 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

June 5, 2008

Back Seat Driver

iXs Research Corporation in Japan unveiled their robotic teddy bear that works as a gps navigation system but goes a step further by gesturing with its arm/legs along with voice instructions. It also functions as booze control refusing to let you drive if it "smells" how drunk you are. And if you're a crappy reckless driver, it'll yell, "watch out!"

OMG, what a backseat driver! I can't stand that, but it's not all annoyances. If you pet its head, you'll get information about nearby landmarks. Snap!

I don't know who iXs Research are but they've billed themselves as making "cool robots" right in their logo so they've gotta be legit! On another note, somebody needs to run that bear thru the wash because he's not looking very Downy fresh and what's up with that ridiculously huge bow?

via Pink Tentacle

Posted by tranism at 11:23 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

May 30, 2008

Dior's Black Diamonds

When it comes to mobile phones there are 3 classes. You have your mass market which is the largest segment. It's what most people have. Then you have your tech market with devices like the HTC Diamond and iPhone. This class tends to innovate and push technology forward. Finally you have your luxe class, such as the case with the new Dior Black Diamond phone. It's no longer about market segment, it's no longer about tech. It's all about the cache that comes with a $5,000 phone.

Money man, so much money.

Posted by tranism at 10:06 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

Sparky Says Your Air Quality Sucks

Sparking responds negatively to: carbon monoxide, cigarette smoke, alcohol, too much dark lighting, hitting and yelling. Any of the above factors (depending on severity) makes Sparky drop it's head and tail, whimper, and it's body collapses. Sometimes you will not know why it's whimpering and it is up to the person to figure out what is wrong with their dog. What can make Sparky stand up and make happy noises is strong lighting, talking nicely and walking him. (Walking him will give the fastest positive results).

Posted by tranism at 9:29 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

May 20, 2008

Lacoste Celebrates 75 Years By Predicting The Future

If Lacoste had its way, this is how tennis will look in the future. A tennis racket with unbreakable magnetic strings, shoes with embedded screens, and a heads-up display that helps predict the ball's trajectory. It's a little out there but then again - think about what baseball players wore 40 years ago. Yeah...

via Kitsune Noir

Posted by tranism at 9:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (5)

May 17, 2008

Digital Escapism

Imagine seeing the world at its most beautiful, peaceful, and greatest regardless of what "reality" is. With increasing pollution, devastating wars, poverty, and climate change, human society may be turning for the worse. Although nobody suggests ditching any last efforts to fix our problems, no one can argue with the need to escape every now and then.

Frog Design's "A Digital Escape" is a mask that augments reality into a more serene place. You could look at a pile a rubble surrounded by death and see nothing but glorious sunshine; beautiful architecture set amongst a bed of dandelions. This virtual escapism provides a sort of virtual drug to make the world appear a better place even if just for a moment.

Posted by tranism at 2:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)

May 14, 2008

The New Plot

Don't ya'll get it? Robot dominance isn't going to happen thru weapons and war. They're going to be much more subversive, slowly taking over by integrating into society's most influential staples - like music. Take for example Honda's ASIMO conducting the Detroit Symphony. Don't be fooled by his polite bows. Underneath that mask is a super computer plotting and calculating.

Posted by tranism at 12:50 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

May 9, 2008

Giant Cobras or Solar Shades?

The greenest form of energy is still the sun. It's free and it's everywhere. Australian design firm Buro North in partnership with the Victorian Eco Innovation Lab show off their VEIL Solar Shades installation. Photovoltaics aren't new but these cobras as I like to call them do more than collect solar energy, they also provide shade. Sun's great and all but I can't stand the heat. These cobras are right up my alley. Just don't bite me.

via Josh Spear

Posted by tranism at 2:58 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

May 6, 2008

Who Designed The HTC Touch Diamond?

So with all the press the HTC Touch Diamond is getting, no one's really discussing its origins. Sure it's HTC branded but the smartphone is actually a collaboration between HTC in Taiwan and One & Co. in San Francisco. HTC has the hardware chops but One & Co. knows how to meld the minimalist with the meaningful. Hit the jump for more beauty shots.

Posted by tranism at 10:26 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

HTC Touch Diamond

HTC just released it's "iPhone Killer" dubbed the Touch Diamond. It's powered by Windows Mobile 6.1 Professional, comes with a 2.8" VGA touch screen, GPS, WiFi, and 3G. Hit the jump for the full list of specs.

So what do you think? HTC did a great job with the interface but underneath it all it's still Windows Mobile. iPhone killer?

• HTC Touch Diamond Key Specifications
• Size: 102 x 51 x 11.33mm
• Weight: 110 g
• Connectivity: WCDMA / HSPA: 900/2100MHz. HSDPA 7.2 Mbps and HSUPA
• Operating system: Windows Mobile® 6.1 Professional
• Display: 2.8-inch VGA touch screen
• Camera: 3.2MP, with video calling
• Internal memory: 4 GB Internal Storage, 256 MB flash, 192 MB RAM,
• Bluetooth: 2.0 with EDR
• Wireless: WiFi 802.11b/g
• GPS: GPS/AGPS
• Interface: HTC ExtUSB™ (mini-USB and audio jack in one; USB 2.0 High-Speed)
• Battery: 900 mAh
• Talk time: GSM: up to 4 hours
• Standby time: GSM: up to 300 hours/100 hours with push email
• Chipset: Qualcomm® MSM 7201A™ 528MHz

Posted by tranism at 7:55 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)

May 5, 2008

Pleo Shall Have His Revenge

Sure Pleo may be no match for a Battlebot but mark my words,

"On the 1st year when tiny calves grow to become lords of their shepherds, will the Earth see them exact their revenge on those machines of unholy purpose and nature."

They don't call 'em thunder lizards for nothing.

Posted by tranism at 1:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

April 10, 2008

My Assistant Is A Cube

Because it does it all. Tame is a concept device, cube like in nature, that syncs with all your other devices and applications. You store different status messages on each face of the cube and just by rotating it, activate that status. Now your phone, voicemail, Facebook, Myspace, twitter, etc. all reflect the same status message. There's even a web application that reports the status of everyone equipped with a Tame cube. The color coded system correlates with the color you set on your Tame cube so people know your availability at a glance.

via Greener Gass

Posted by tranism at 4:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)

Robot Remote In Action

Remember my post about Toshiba's universal robot remote control called ApriPoco? Here it is in action. Do Want!

Posted by tranism at 2:33 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

April 4, 2008

Nexi Wants To Be Liked

Those crazy kids at MIT labs are at it again. This time their collaborative efforts have netted a new robot called Nexi. It has a Segway-like body with articulated limbs and a face that can convey a simple range of emotions. Those MIT lab rats are studying how social relationships develop so Nexi's main task is to observe and interact. It just wants to be liked by you.

It's interesting how the Japanese and Koreans often design their bots to be animal or child-like with very anthropomorphic characteristics while western robotics tend to favor human likeness.

Hit the jump to see Nexi.

Posted by tranism at 1:38 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)

April 1, 2008

Innocent Robots Curb Our Anger

If you recall, I blogged about my new Turtle God which just so happens to be Toshiba's latest universal remote control robot. Those big doe eyes and cute disposition has a purpose. We have a tendency to lash out when things don't go our way, like flinging a remote across the room when it doesn't work, or smacking a cable box when it won't... um, cable. Toshiba hopes by making their robots as innocent as Bambi, we'll think twice about smacking it when it refuses to change channels.

via Crunch Gear

Posted by tranism at 3:06 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 30, 2008

How To Call A Deaf Dog

A cool story about a dog owner distraught with how to could call his deaf dog. So he fashioned a vibrating collar from the guts of an RC car. Make has all the info and if you have a weekend, you can build one too.

Posted by tranism at 4:52 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 25, 2008

Robotic Universal Remote Is My New Turtle God

Toshiba may have lost the HD format war but the company still manages to kick out neat ideas like the ApriPoko, a robot universal remote that learns by watching and asking you questions. It doesn't walk despite having feet but it does have some amazing eyes. Anytime it detects IR signals, it speaks up and asks, "what did you just do?" Tell it what you did and it memorizes it.

Couch potatoes will LOVE this thing. They don't even have to move their hands now. Just shout what you want because every wish is your command.

via Asahi

Posted by tranism at 6:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)

March 15, 2008

Biometric Feelings

Emocare's latest watch, the BT2, takes the cake for being the most complete "big brother watchin' your emotions" solution I've seen. It measures almost every biometric reading possible and sends it to a computer. Now you're employers know how you're feeling and how you react in different situations.

This is how I imagine Disney Theme Parks keeps their minions employees in check. As soon as your smile begins to crack, the watch alerts park authorities. The first rule for working at Disney Theme Parks is to ALWAYS SMILE.

via Gizmodo

Posted by tranism at 5:32 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 6, 2008

Phone Has Something For Your Ear

I love this mobile phone concept dubbed "Mooon+" by Sunman Kwon. It's even more awesome the designer's name has the word 'Sun' in it but I digress. See this phone has all the goodies; mulit-touchscreen, slick design, slim, and a camera. What I really like is the mouth piece detaches and turns into a bluetooth headset.

Wrote about it at Yanko Design.

Posted by tranism at 10:53 AM | Permalink | Comments (12)

iPhone Finally Gets Real GPS Nav

I removed the crappy one that came with my car. I've held out on 3rd party solutions from Tom Tom, Sony, Garmin, and Navigon. I even refrained from a pretty decent solution for my Sony PSP because it doesn't have a touchscreen. My iPhone is with me 24/7 so it's about damn time somebody came up with a viable (no-hack required) solution.

Nav N Go demoed their iGo My Way 8 software on the iPhone and it seems perfect. I've used iGo on an old Nokia phone before so I'm familiar with the interface, not to mention satisfied with its GPS capabilities. The iPhone version utilizes a small dongle to receive the GPS single and that's about all you need to get it working. Best part is with the iPhone's multi-touchscreen, manipulating GPS data will be that much easier and fun!

Hit the jump for the video. Try HARD to ignore the awful elevator music.

Posted by tranism at 6:56 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)

Helping The Blind Go Hi Tech

A blind person's walking stick may soon make the leap into hi-tech by integrating sensors and tactile feedback. The Smart Wand by Jin Woo Han is pretty small and ergonomically fits in one's hand. If there is an obstacle in the way, the surface of device can actually raise small bumps to alert the person.

via Tuvie

Posted by tranism at 6:48 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)

February 28, 2008

New Way To Own A Mobile Phone

New mobiles with updated technologies come out every year so why are we stuck in a model that forces encourages us to buy instead of leasing?

That's the idea behind the Linc, a concept mobile phone and platform by Greener Grass. You sign a contract and they send you a phone. A year from now you send it back for the latest and greatest. Kinda sorta similar to what some companies allow now with trade-ins except your old Linc actually gets recycled, like all of it. This model demonstrates a sustainable cradle-to-cradle solution instead of our current cradle-to-waste system.

Would you be into it? I think Kitsune Noir is.

Posted by tranism at 1:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

Robot Will Learn To Speak

In 4 years time, that robot dubbed iCub (seriously tho) will reach some level of cognitive intelligence. At least that's what A.I. researchers at the University of Plymouth hope. The 3 foot tall humanoid baby (not a bear) will develop language and basic motor skills. They promise nothing sinister; just another study on how babies learn language.

via Ubergizmo

Posted by tranism at 12:55 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Squeeze My Tentacle

Board room meetings are kind of boring. A bunch of people hunched over the table spitting out random ideas, speaking over each other, being anything but productive. The Sensor Squid aims to change all that by making the collaborative spirit fun. Just grab onto a tentacle and speak your mind, control that powerpoint presentation, share information, or lead a brainstorm.

via Make

Posted by tranism at 12:05 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

February 27, 2008

Mighty Morphin Computer Tablet

One of the new miracle materials is a magnetized oil called magneclay. By using controlled electric and magnetic fields, magneclay can take on almost any shape. Designer Jonathan Lucas uses this technology in his Siafu concept, a tablet designed for people with vision loss and impairment.

The tablet can display brail, create tactile surface imagery, and even bring up dynamic menus for a revolutionary interface.

via Yanko Design

Posted by tranism at 11:56 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

February 25, 2008

Nokia Wants You To Believe!

In the future, your phone is like paper thin okay? It can sniff fruit and self-cleans. It can fold into a phone, a watch, and possibly an origami crane. Okay that last one was a stretch but wouldn't it be cool if it did?!?

Now that I'm back on the Earth, check out Nokia's latest concept device dubbed Morph. A joint collaboration between Nokia Research and the University of Cambridge, it promises a future where flexible materials literally bend to your every whim.

Posted by tranism at 4:40 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

Squeeze This

ID people have it tough. They have to forecast the future based on current trends; not an easy job. That's why we always see concepts stretching the bounds of our imaginations. It can be difficult separating what's real from fantasy so here's a hip-tip. In general look for a commonality and that's probably what we'll see hit mass 10-20-30 years from now.

One example are flexible electronics. They come in every form via a designer's imagination so we can be sure our electronics will be flexible in some way in the future. One example is a Soft Phone by Qian Jiang. In lieu of a traditional screen, there's a electric cellulose fabric stretched between rings. The fabric registers deformations as input so just about anything from typing, dialing, to squeezing can be used for navigation. Fascinating concept really.

More at Yanko Design

Posted by tranism at 4:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

February 20, 2008

DIY Blubber Bot

Part of a family of "Transitional Species," Blubber Bots are Do-It-Yourself robotic inflatables that navigate autonomously and intelligently. They are light-seeking helium-filled balloons that graze the landscape in search of light and cellphone signals.

I totally want an army of these I can control with my Wii-mote.

Posted by tranism at 12:55 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

February 18, 2008

Bear With Penguin Feet

It's only February but toy manufacturers and analysts are already hard at work predicting what the next big "Elmo" toy will be. One company, Kids Preferred, has all bets on their Smart-e series toys. They're semi interactive plushes that can download songs and stories to read for just 99 cents a piece.

So basically it's a Teddy Ruxpin connected to the internet. That and the Smart-e Bear has weird penguin feet. I don't remember Teddy Ruxpin having that.

via Newlaunches

Posted by tranism at 12:36 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

February 15, 2008

My Own Triceratops

I have ALWAYS wanted to ride a dinosaur since I was a little kid, especially a triceratops. Playschool is going to make my dreams come true with Kota the Triceratops. It debuted this week at the annual Toy Fair and buzz is building. Measuring over 40 inches tall, Kota is fully interactive with the latest tech goodies. He/She can feel touch and reacts to external stimuli.

My gripe is Playschool says Kota is only strong enough to support the weight of kids, not adults. THAT IS NOT GOING TO STOP ME. What might stop me is the $300 price tag but I've got til' this Fall to save up. Look out cuz I'm me and my dinosaur are coming thru!

via Popgadget

Posted by tranism at 12:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)

February 14, 2008

Dr. Labcoat and Elmo Live

Elmo didn't do so hot this past holiday season. SHOCKER! But he's spent the last several months learning a few new tricks. This Elmo not only laughs uncontrollably, but also dances, sings, tells stories, and OMG JAZZ HANDS!

Hit up Gizmodo to see more action.

Posted by tranism at 12:26 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

Aura Healing Concept

Frog Design Studio just introduced their latest concept called Aura, a futuristic health oriented device that combines both traditional and ethereal healing methods. By monitoring a patient's vital signs, customized regimens of light, sound, and aroma can be combined with medicine for an all encompassing treatment, revitalizing both the body and mind.

Posted by tranism at 11:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

February 11, 2008

Air Drying The Dyson Way

Dyson, the company behind those super vacuums and hand dryers are at it again, this time with drying clothes. We all know electric/gas dryers use up boatloads of energy, which is bad for the wallet, bad for the environment. Hang drying is the only green alternative until now. The Dyson Air-line uses wind and solar energy to air dry your clothes.

I believe it's just a concept for now but the Dyson vacs were once also too and you know how successful that became. The Air-line promises to dry your clothes in the same amount of time using no electricity whatsoever.

Another pic after the jump. Thanks Gearfuse.

Posted by tranism at 11:04 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Glove Tracking

As a kid I was totally envious. . . okay jealous of Penny and her book computer. You know, Inspector Gadget's niece, or was it his daughter? Whateves. Point being I wanted some sort of mini computing device. Tho we live in a society of notebooks and smartphones, I really like the Vie - a GPS enabled pair of gloves. They help you keep track of your route, jog, and progress. They'll also send out an SOS should you get lost or come across a mountain lion while jogging on those trails that say, "beware of mountain lions".

via Gearfuse

Posted by tranism at 7:55 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Dream Little PSP

This fan made PSP is a whole lot better than the real thing. Amazingly it looks more Sony than the real PSP too.

Posted by tranism at 2:21 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

February 8, 2008

Computer Mug To Go

I posted this interesting concept that's sparking quite the debate over at Yanko Design. It's a mug with a built-in touchscreen to get your morning news, stocks, email, traffic updates, etc. Some argue it's possible while others believe this is a case of design exploration.

Posted by tranism at 2:43 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

February 6, 2008

Alien Alarm Clock Lamps

Check out the Hasbro Room Tech Clock and Room Tech Lamp, the idea is that you set the alarm clock and it will turn on the lamp for you. The Room Tech Clock wakes kids (or adults) up with a bang as it stamps on the bed-side table with its arms. Alternatively users will be able to be wake up by tunes from the radio or their MP3 player. The clock then communicates with the lamp through a wireless link so when the alarm goes off, the lamp lights up.

Should be available just in time for the holidays.

Posted by tranism at 12:58 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)

February 5, 2008

Sleeping Itch Free

A lot of people fail at getting a good night's sleep. It's true and part of the reason why is itchiness. The onset of itchies stems from a number of reasons, most of which can be controlled. Enter the dreamer's material Dermasilk. Billed as the end all of restless nights, this fabric regulates body temperature and allows skin to breath. Developed by the Travelodge hotel chain, the company is currently beta testing would be patrons and should it prove successful, see commercial development.

And yes that woman is totally wearing a onesy.

via Telegraph

Posted by tranism at 1:09 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

February 4, 2008

Mint Condition Brand New Apple IIc

How much of an Apple fanboy are you? And by Apple I mean the original computers - pre-Mac. Probably one of the most familiar Apple computers is the Apple II series. Some guy name Dan managed to get his mitts on an unopened mint condition Apple IIc (color) for a cool 2 G's off ebay. He posted a bunch of photos in flickr and boy does it bring back memories.

It's also nice to see even then Apple led the way with thoughtful industrial design. For a computer in its day, the IIc was quite compact. I love how the cooling vents on the CPU and monitor look more design than functional which is key for a great design. Even the packaging and those ultra rare Apple stickers are a sight to see.

flickr set

Posted by tranism at 2:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

Mobile Phone's Best Friend

Man has his dogs and mobile phones could have something like the MCube, a peripheral that extends the capabilities of your phone. It's a wireless charger, bluetooth stereo, and information display. Simple place your mobile phone nearby to wirelessly recharge and stream music to the MCube via bluetooth. It'll also display basic information from your phone like caller ID and text messages.

Just a concept for now but none of the technologies it proposes is beyond the reach of today. Expect to see something like this in the near future.

via Yanko Design

Posted by tranism at 11:34 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

January 29, 2008

Pollen Robots Are Secretly Plotting

Japanese scientists created these spherical robots to measure pollen content as an advance warning system for allergy sufferers. Their eye color changes to reflect what kind of pollen is in the air.

What the scientists don't tell you is these pollen bots are secretly plotting a worldwide takeover by giving us false information. I'm telling you, with all those cables hanging around, and the glowing eyes, this is just a precursor to the borg. Until that rueful day, check out their real-time pollen map.

via Pink Tentacle

Posted by tranism at 2:08 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)

January 27, 2008

Spotify is Awesome

Spotify's goal is to create one of the worlds largest collections of music streaming on demand, all free and available anytime from anywhere.

I got my invitation to try the Beta a few days ago (thanks Bjorn) and I totally love it. Not every category or song I've searched for is on there yet but there's already a ton of stuff and it works great.

All their files are carefully ordered and tagged with metadata that makes it easy to look up any particular song. If you're looking for a title from a certain year simply include the year with the artist in your search, you could even ad an array of things making your search real specific.

The application is like I said still Beta and I'm sure there are several features to be added in the near future.

Check out their site for more information, if you ask them real nicely perhaps they shoot you an invite : )

Posted by diverseawareness at 9:48 AM | Permalink | Comments (5)

January 25, 2008

Solar Water Distiller

This floating Hershy's Kiss is actually a solar distiller. It can create between 1-4 pints of clean drinking water out of the sea per day. That's not really enough for one person but hey, it's solar powered. That's a lot better than what 99.9% of us are using. However the $200 is a bit exorbitant.

Posted by tranism at 12:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Fly Spy

A tiny microbotic fly built by researchers at Harvard University is currently on display at New York's Museum of Modern Art. The life-sized 'Flybot' reportedly has a wingspan of 1.2 inches and weighs a mere 0.002 ounces. What's more sinister is the project is funded by the US Defence Advanced Research Projects Agency, who hopes to gain access to micro-miniature surveillance technologies.

I will never trust another fly again.

via Slashdot

Posted by tranism at 12:22 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)

Visual Grenade

The Remington Eye Ball is a wireless ball equipped with 360º cameras. Roll it where surveillance is required. Reminds me of Aeon Flux. It's real and being tested with police departments around the country. And no you can not buy one.

Posted by tranism at 12:14 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

January 24, 2008

Aerial Stick Cams

Taking photos is fun but aren't you getting tired of the same old angles grounded by gravity. With the Flying Stick Camera, aerial shots are easier than ever. Using kinetic energy created by rolling it between your palms, the camera snaps pictures at set intervals. Sure you won't know what kind of shots were taken until it comes down but that's just half the fun. That and jumping around like an idiot.

Whole lot more at Yanko Design

Posted by tranism at 3:04 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

January 22, 2008

Humanizing ASIMO

Our children's future, possibly.

Posted by tranism at 12:55 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

January 18, 2008

Flashback, Tribute To Sony Robots

About 5 years ago Sony had every intention of putting one of it's robots in every home but sometime after 2006, plans changed and by 2007 the company killed off both QRIO and Aibo. This is one of the first commercials for QRIO.

UPDATE: The song is called "Love to Love You" by Dreamlab.

Posted by tranism at 3:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

January 15, 2008

MacBook Air, Breathe It

Apple's latest darling, MacBook Air; tear dropped shaped, 0.7 inches at its thickest, 13.3" LED screen, totally wireless, multi-touch trackpad, 3 lbs, wafer thin made of aerospace aluminum. $1,799. Hit the jump for live pictures thanks to Gizmodo.

Posted by tranism at 1:39 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)

January 14, 2008

MacBook Air is Actually Ultra Thin

Alright here's my prediction. The latest MacBook is so thin, it's newspaper thin. Papercuts; careful now.

Okay actually it's just a clever ad by the Advertising School in New York but clever nonetheless.

Posted by tranism at 5:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

January 10, 2008

Smarter Clothing Labels

RFID is the name of the game and pretty soon we'll see it reach mainstream in some very unexpected applications. One in particular is the ClothTAG. Meant to replace current garment care labels, the ClothTAG uses RFID technology to tell your washer and dryer what settings to use. Of course, that requires you to have RFID enabled appliances. If you don't, no worries. The RFID circuitry cleverly mimics icons found in current garment care labels so you'll still know how best to wash your undies the old fashioned way.

via Yanko Design

Posted by tranism at 1:57 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)

Shaken, Not Stirred

The Bello PMP concept by designer Ryan Han looks to be just another touchscreen doodad currently flooding the market but upon closer inspection, it does a lot more.

First off the simplicity in the design is quite gorgeous in an understated way. The entire surface is a touchscreen framed in a glass bezel. Finger swipes and flicks ala iPod Touch navigate across menus but the Bello ups the ante by integrating hand gestures for deeper controls.

For example when you shake the Bello, all you personal files change into little icons that can be stacked and organized. It beats having to drill down thru 2-3 steps of menus. Perhaps the coolest feature is what I call "teapotting." Simply gesture as if you're pouring tea over another Bello to initiate a file transfer. Bravo!

via Yanko Design

Posted by tranism at 1:31 AM | Permalink | Comments (4)

January 8, 2008

Fujitsu Laptops Might Be Plushy

At least in concept they will be. Fujitsu unveiled a trio of concepts at CES. The plush laptop caught my eye because it's brilliant. I find myself falling asleep with my laptop all the time. Would be nice if I could just nuzzle it like a mini-pillow. Of course, Fujitsu didn't explain how they would make such a product but then again that's why they call it a concept.

Reminds me of the Soft Little TV from Sony. Could they be on to something? Maybe future electronics will be all about soft pliable materials instead of the super thin hard surfaces we see emerging today.

More pics after the jump.

Posted by tranism at 11:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

iPod Projector

The big CES electronics show in Vegas is very alluring but I sat this one out because frankly, I'm still recovering from last year's event. Too much walking and people on their Blackberries trying to sound important. I digress.

One newbie electronic I'm particularly interested in is the OptiMax-i iPod dock/projector. It's not the brightest projector at just 14 lumens nor is it the biggest outputting below VGA resolution. But it's a portable way to show movies stored on that iPod of yours. Think of it as grandma's slideshow circa 2008. You should be able to pick one up this spring for $299.

via Gizmodo

Posted by tranism at 11:25 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

January 3, 2008

Keep One's Nose To The Grindstone

The ultra minimalistic Freedom Mobile Phone by designer Vadim Kibardin is gorgeous by any standard but it's just a concept for now. Specifically designed for chronic travelers who need to stay in touch, instead of paying outrageous roaming charges you just buy one of these. They come charged with 200 minutes which you can recharge at any time. Each one also has it's own number that works internationally. No SIM card or mobile contracts needed. Sound idea but what about this design?

I'm all for minimalist designs but this is one that's a little too far in. First off there's no screen so how am I supposed to know if I've dialed the correct number? Second, the ultra thin form factor is just begging for chronic hand pains. Fix those two problems and BRING IT ON!

via Yanko Design

Posted by tranism at 5:11 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

January 2, 2008

iPhone App iLyric Player Is Karaoke'tastic

My friends and I are Karaoke junkies. At almost every get together the preprogrammed mics filled with thousands of songs come out and with enough booze in our systems; we get to sangin'. This brilliant iPhone application called iLyric Player streams lyrics in sync with the song playing. It even lets you rearrange the timing for group sing-a-longs.

Posted by tranism at 11:40 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)

December 19, 2007

But You Promised Me!

How many times have you uttered those words to someone? Me personally, more than I can count and they all seemed to have been with my parents. Those two hardly ever kept their promises to me which is why had the Credit Seal existed, my parents would have been a lot more careful with that word.

Winner of the Red Dot Design Award 2007, Credit Seal is a digital notary of sorts. When a verbal promise is made, a record can be kept obligating both parties to their agreement. If one should fail to comply or acquire an acute case of selective amnesia, just bring up the seal which has both names, the promise, and the sign date. That outta shut them up.

Mom, dad. I'm still waiting on the Teddy Ruxpin you promised me for bringing home straight A's.

via Yanko Design

Posted by tranism at 12:34 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Bone Conduction Headphones

I remember the Japanese telcoms experimenting with bone conduction headsets for the hearing impaired but this is the first time I've seen similar technology made for the masses. The Zelco OUTI clips onto your ear and transmits sounds directly thru your cartilage to the tiny bones that pick up vibrations in your ear. Apparently this method of listening is safer and provides better sound quality since you not only hear the music, but feel it too.

$110 and in pristine white to match your iPod.

Posted by tranism at 12:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

December 17, 2007

Slutty Soccer Mom Pink

That's my name for this crazy pink (fuschia) phone dubbed the Sharp W61SH. Yes it's a Japanese phone but still, the color alone was worth blogging about. Technically it's quite capable with that rotating widescreen and integrated antenna to capture all that free TV floating about in Nihon. What really stands out (besides the pink!) are the insane screen specs. We're talking 2000:1 contrast ratio. HELLO! That's better than some big flat screen TVs!

Other non-important colors after the jump.

Posted by tranism at 4:54 PM | Permalink | Comments (10)

December 14, 2007

Soft Little TV

Ever wonder why electronics are hard? With today's technologies; paper thin flexible screens and micro circuity should make soft electronics possible. One organization called Tokyo Fiber challenged its members to recreate a piece of technology that forever shifted our society - the TV.

Little TV fits in the palm of your hands not only because it's small, but also because it's plush. This time, it's advance textiles that redefine form and function. Introducing textiles into the equation can again change the product landscape and stimulate our senses in entirely new ways. Sets that rest comfortably in the palm of your hand; small, round, and soft reinterpretations of products that feel nicer, cuddlier with more character.

via Notcot

Posted by tranism at 12:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)

December 8, 2007

Sony Aibo Is Back And Looking Fierce!

Normally I wouldn't write about rumors but you guys know my love for all things Aibo so when Stuff Magazine leaked a possible resurrection of the robotic pooch redubbed Aibo PS, my jaw dropped. The PS stands for Playstation which Stuff Magazine says Sony will rebrand Aibo as. The new pooch will be decked out in the latest robot tech (take that Pleo) and wirelessly connect to both the PS3 and PSP. Content can be download and shared this way without the need of a computer. It will also allow you to control Aibo via WiFi and see what Aibo sees. Finally real security.

Excitement ensues!

Posted by tranism at 11:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)

November 30, 2007

Not A Bird Or Plane Or Superman

Today's technologies afford engineers the opportunity to make things they only dreamed of 10 years ago. Of particular interest is the Air-ray.

Modeled on the effortless design of a manta ray, the Air_ray is a remote-controlled, helium-filled balloon floater that features a beating wing drive to fly. Check out the video after the jump.

via Centripetal Notion

Posted by tranism at 4:57 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Warming Heart

A very observant reader sent me an email pointing out my obsession with hand warmers. Yes it's true. Some people like squeezing gel filled rubber balls to relieve stress, I prefer to heat up my hands. For me, it's more relaxing.

This interesting heart shaped hand warmer doesn't use batteries to generate heat. Instead, a metal disc ignites a chemical reaction within the gel when you press it. The result is heat. Only maintenance is to recharge it after each use by boiling it in water. Pretty awesome and only $5.99. What a great stocking stuffer.

Thanks Michael!

Posted by tranism at 12:38 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

November 26, 2007

Change Clothes Without Changing

This is one of the more AMAZING textile tech demos I've seen. The actual dress print is a series of colored circles a computer uses to calculate every single coordinate, movement, and shadow. Using that information new textures can be applied in mere seconds that look just as natural and real. This texture map technology is very similar to what they do in 3D cgi and the developers hope it'll take