This is music to meditate to, and the presentation is visually captivating as well. The “Quiet Ensemble” ranks up there with the Zadar Sea Organ in my mind as one of the coolest inventions that uses technology and real ingenuity to capture the beauty of nature.

Quintetto by Quiet Ensemble from yatzer on Vimeo.

[via Engadget]

Photo by quinnanya, feature photo by Robert Scoble

When I lived in Korea, I was spoiled with free wi-fi at all the cafes – including Starbucks. It bothered me that I had to give them my visa number to do it, but that was easy to forgive when the result was unlimited wi-fi in a comfy place to work.

I schlepped my laptop to a Starbucks in Texas when I returned, ready to do some writing, and was unpleasantly surprised to find out U.S. Starbucks had yet to acknowledge that charging for wi-fi is just greedy. Because isn’t it?

I took a four day road trip from Texas to Washington early this year, and spent three nights in three different “cost efficient” hotels. Each and every one with free wi-fi. This July I’m going to be in L.A. for a conference, staying in as close to a luxury hotel as I’ll ever get. Internet? $9.95, and it doesn’t say how much time that buys (but it’s certainly not unlimited).

Are we at a point where we should expect free wi-fi from these places, or is it still just a bonus to be appreciated? Tell me what you think:

Though the concept is truly simple, Twitter is daunting to look at if you’re unfamiliar with it. Why does everyone’s name look like half an email address? What is a trending topic, and what could “World Cup” and “Justin Bieber” possibly have in common? Why are some words treated like a number? #confusing

For these questions and more, Twitter has unveiled their new Help Center and Twitter YouTube account, complete with video tutorials on how to finding folks to follow, timelines, and utilizing the mighty power that is retweeting.

Photos courtesy of Tech On

Actually, the device isn’t glasses, but rather an attachment that can be fixed on any pair of glasses. And the features? Both fascinating and frightening.

• Infrared LEDs
• Photoreceivers
• Camera
• GPS/Geotagging
• Text recognition

This thing doesn’t just record what you see – it records what you focus on, which is where it crosses the line from cool to a little freaky for me. The implications of what could be done with this sort of technology are pretty staggering. Dvice pointed one out:

Imagine the consequences if a divorce lawyer could prove you were constantly checking out the hot babes while walking with your wife. Any last shred of privacy is basically out the window when you’re using this technology.

Whether used for right or wrong, these things could definitely infringe on some basic privacy rights. For gamers, they’re a dream come true.

And for travelers? I admit I misread the title at first to read “lifeblogging” – a funny mistake, but it made me think. We have blogs, we have vlogs – what sort of vlog could be created from a piece of technology like this that records everything from one person’s point of view? If it does catch you looking when the wind blows up that girl’s skirt, I’d say it would be a pretty transparent vlog indeed.

via Gizmodo

In response to the impressive Google Chrome video showing off the browser’s speed, the guys at Opera made a video to show the world what they’ve got – by pitting Opera’s search time against a potato waiting for water to boil. (Hey, when your competition is Google you can’t take yourself too seriously.)

As TechCrunch points out, universities seem to have a love/hate relationship with the iPad. Just a month ago Seton Hill announced that all new students in the fall of 2010 would receive both an iPad and a Macbook as part of enrollment. But other schools, including Princeton and Cornell, have made it clear the device is not welcome on their campuses.

The Illinois Institute of Technology, however, is embracing the new technology offered by Apple. From their press release:

Educational applications for iPad, such as eBooks, Blackboard Mobile Learn, and iTunes University will empower IIT students with engaging tools that will enhance their educational experience. IIT students and faculty will also develop new applications that will increase classroom interactivity and collaboration.

Beyond the use of iPad devices for educational purposes in and out of the classroom, IIT will release a university app for iPhone/iPod and iPad that provides students and visitors with access to news, events, maps, course listings, and more. The application will also enable the university to push emergency alerts directly to iPod/iPhone/iPad devices, enhancing the existing emergency alert capability through SMS text email, and voice messages.

And here at Matador, we’ve covered jet lag extensively; from outlining 13 ways of avoiding jet lag to reviewing the book, The Cure for Jet Lag; so you’re armed with some solutions.

Yet, the ultimate cure seems elusive.

If all natural remedies have failed you, and you happen to own an iPhone, now you can finally fight jet lag with technology, courtesy of Virgin Atlantic.

Teaming up with the Edinburgh Sleep Centre, Virgin Atlantic has released the Jet Lag Fighter; an app that is compatible with both iPhones and iPads.

To fight jet lag using the…well… Fighter, you’ll first need to type in your flight details as well as a few personal details like age, sex, and any history of insomnia (or sleep patterns). The app then does some crunching and spits out a jet lag fighting itinerary with exact times of day to do some basic activities like sleeping and exercising.

It also tells you when to seek out some light or when to avoid it altogether along with a predictor that tells you exactly which day and time your jet lag will be eliminated.

Assuming you don”t cheat.

Price: $1.99 | BUY

Remember this Newton commercial from 1993? Neither do I. It’s fairly entertaining though – hey, this thing can receive a page and send faxes and electronic mail!

But the guys at MacRumor realized recently that this Newton commercial is actually the inspiration for latest iPad ad. I’m thinking the latter might be a tad more successful.

Based on the information studied in Socialnomics, by Erik Qualman, Social Media Revolution 2 proposes that blogging, Facebook and Twitter aren’t fads, but rather a complete change in communication, marketing and several other facets of life and business.

I was shocked at the statement that if Facebook were a country, it would be the world’s third largest – knocking the U.S. down to fourth. And the fact that Britney Spears has more Twitter followers than the population of Ireland makes me ache in a weird, sad way. It’s odd but unsurprising, like finding out more eBooks were sold this Christmas than paper books. (According to this video, also true.)

What statistic caught you off guard in this video? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

If I had an iPad, I would not do this. And not just because I don’t have a car. However, I admire the ingenuity it took to rig this up. And if you try it, please let me know how it turns out. (Also, maybe don’t watch Avatar while you’re on the freeway.)

DIY iPad Car Mount from Jacky Yuen on Vimeo.

Via Cult of Mac

It’s high tech, it’s messy, and it involves explosives. I like it.

I understand the consequences of not recycling gadgets, and lately I’ve been more concerned with their impact on our health. But to be honest, I mistakenly assumed that most people recycled their cell phones, given that it’s so easy to do so.

But according to this infographic, created by Cellphone.org, only one out of ten cell phones are recycled. Even more frightening, there are an estimated 280 million cell phones in use in the United States alone – and they’re being replaced an average of every 18 months.

We’ve seen a cat tackle the iPad, but this pianist shows a bit more skill with the device.

Photo by derek olson, feature photo by richardmasoner

I have a very distinct memory of first hearing the rumor about cell phones and brain tumors over a decade ago. My friend turned off the TV and said, “Well, I hope not. This thing is glued to my ear either way.”

A flippant remark, but that seems to sum up how we feel about electro-magnetic radiation that comes from mobile devices. I’ll die twenty years too soon? That’s okay, just please don’t take my gadgets away!

A recent article on Boulder Weekly brings us back to reality with more recent facts about technology and health.

• Danish scientists found that cell phone use has an effect on the brain’s metabolism, increasing “energy turnover” near the learning center of a brain in a way that may cause damage to brain cells. Though scientists could not prove that cellular use contributed to the death of those cells, the type of brain activity they saw was similar to that seen in the brains of those with Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
• Another Danish study showed that women who used cell phones two to three times a day during pregnancy increased their risk — by 54 percent — of having babies that exhibited signs of hyperactivity, behavioral problems and emotional disorders by the time they reached school age. When they tried to account for other environmental factors, such as smoking, the connection between cell phone usage and developmental disorders only seemed stronger.
• A Swedish study from the Karolinska Institute indicated that regular use of cellular or cordless phones over a decade or more was associated with an increased risk of acoustic neuromas, a benign type of brain tumor.
• Another Swedish study found a five-fold increase in deadly brain tumors among those who began using cellular before the age of 20. The increase in risk from using cordless phones was four-fold.

What frightens me isn’t whether or not this stuff is true – I believe it is. What frightens me is that I’m writing about this on my laptop. What frightens me is that you’re reading it on yours, or maybe on your Blackberry or iPhone.

I don’t think it’s a matter of giving it up at this point. The fact is, if it weren’t for mobile technology and all of its gadget glory, I wouldn’t be making a living right now. Pending a zombie virus that’s spread through texting, I just don’t see any of these devices going anywhere.

So what’s the solution? Accept the inevitable illnesses and issues as payment for the wonder of Facebook and tablet computers? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Currently there are over 10,000 apps dedicated to travel in the iTunes store. Browse through the travel section and you’ll find an app for almost anything travel related; most of the major airlines have their own apps as do travel agencies like Kayak, and car rental outlets like Avis. All of them useful.

But often the apps I find myself using for traveling are those you don’t find in the travel section. You find them under categories such as productivity, social networking or books, although you might not think of “travel” when you first look at them.

These are ten apps that I find most useful.

Kindle and Stanza

Amazon has made the Kindle available for the iPhone and it’s fully customizable so reading even on this small screen can be comfortable for anyone. Carry a small library wherever you go to keep up on your reading.

Likewise, with Stanza, download free books from public domain sites such as Project Gutenberg to help enhance any travel experience. Now reading the Hunchback of Notre Dame while sitting in a café in Paris or Marco Polo’s journals while traveling through Asia is as simple as reaching into your pocket.

Price: Free

Skype

Call your friends and family, heck call a stranger. As long as they have Skype, it’s free from anywhere in the world. You can also call a landline or cell phone for just a minimal charge. For the iTouch, headphones with a mic are required but it’s still easier and a lot cheaper than renting a cell phone.

Price: Free

The PDF Reader

It’s not something you instantly look at and think of travel, but I find it indispensable while traveling. Download any pdf file from your computer or from within the app itself and have it available for offline viewing.

Things I download? Neighborhood maps, subway maps, Wikipedia pages, Google directions, recipes, articles…you get the idea. Added bonus is the space you save not having all of those individual subway/map apps cluttering your iTouch. Additional plus for the iPhone is the battery usage you save not going on 3G.

Price: $0.99

Ambiance

Download from hundreds of free sound clips in their database and create your own environmental mixes. Perfect for drowning out noise and helping you to relax or sleep.

Wolves, rain, birds, trains, white noise, mix ‘em and create your own perfect relaxing atmosphere. Two mixes I’ve created are called Desert Campfire and Rainy Lakeside Cabin. I’m relaxing already.

Price: $0.99

AppBox Pro

This app has a Currency Converter, a Unit Converter, a Translator, a Tip Calculator, a Flashlight, a Ruler, an app for International Holidays and that’s not even half of the programs contained within. Plus it frees up a lot of space by consolidating these frequently used programs into one app.

Price: $0.99

Tweetie 2

Twitter as a travel app? You betcha. A lot of the big name airlines offer special deals only to their twitter followers. Travel writers tweet their discoveries and local specialty food trucks in New York and LA tweet their locations.

If you want to know anything about a place, how to get there, or what to do once you’re there, Twitter is quickly becoming the way to do it. Added bonus, Tweetie 2 was just purchased by Twitter to be their official app. In a few weeks it will appear sleeker with a price drop to “free.”

Price: $2.99

Momento

Make journal entries easily while this app also downloads your activity from Twitter, Facebook, Flickr and Last.fm as part of your daily journal. A great app for recording all aspects of your travels as they happen and keeping them in one place.

Price: $2.99

Star Walk

Now no matter where you are, you can locate the planets or the constellations, be informed of meteor showers, anything needed to turn you into an amateur astronomer. An added bonus is that it’s perfect for bringing everyone together around a campfire.

Price: $2.99

myLanguage and myLanguage Pro

Type in any word or phrase and get a translation in 53 different languages. The main difference with the Pro version (besides price) is that it will actually speak the translation in audio form. The only issue is Wi-Fi or 3G is needed to connect to their database for use. Still I’ve still found it indispensable.

Price: Free (Pro Version – $4.99)

ooTunes

Listen to NPR in Greece, the BBC in Kentucky, KCRW in India. A great internet radio app that has access to virtually any station with web play. Added bonus: it automatically records everything you listen to for easy replay later.

Price: $4.99

Community Connection

Looking for more travel apps? Check out 10 Cheap (Or Free) iPhone Apps For Travelers and iPhone Apps for Freelance Writers.

Photo by josh.liba, feature photo by nDevilTV

While some schools are supplying students with iPads, others aren’t so thrilled.

The Wall Street Journal reports that an issue with the way Apple’s iPad connects to wireless networks is creating problems at several universities. According to Princeton University, the iPad causes DHCP client malfunctions, leading to interference for other devices that use the campus network.

George Washington University is also having problems, in that their authentication system isn’t supported by either the iPad or iPhone. Cornell University is expressing concern about bandwidth overload.

The iPad has also been banned in Israel due to wi-fi connection issues. Proud new iPad owners visiting Israel must pay a fee to have their new toy impounded until they leave the country.

We’ve seen cell phones that like it rough, but this ioSafe hard drive brings new meaning to the term “hardcore.” Check out this video of the ioSafe Solo SSD auditioning for its spot in the Gadget Fight Club Hall of Fame, via CrunchGear:

The Japanese toy-making company Bandai recently announced the May 29th release of their Hyper Telescope for kids, a gadget that takes your location and current time and allows you to “see” into space.

The telescope contains an LCD with three joints and an accelerometer, which takes in the direction you’re pointing the device and displays a virtual star map. The company even thought to prevent the sibling fights this thing might lead to – hook it up to your TV so everyone can see what you’re pointing the telescope at.

It’s enough to make me want to write a letter to Santa. The wow-factor of the telescope itself, and the educational opportunity that comes with it, makes me think the $200 price tag is one parents might consider. And I don’t just mean my own.

The real question here is did the owner have a protective screen on that baby before kitty clawed it up? Because…yikes.

Via CrunchGear

Attensity created this graphic based on a sampling of 50,000 tweets related to the iPad, which were analyzed to discern how gadget geeks feel about the latest from Apple. Overall, Steve Jobs should be pretty happy with his tweeple.

Attensity also took a look at what folks like most about the iPad, with the majority naming Apple’s large selection of applications as the number one reason. The most popular application, according to their survey, was iBooks, with Netflix coming in a close second. The lack of flash support was the number two reason iPad haters cited, with number one being “it won’t replace my iPhone.” (Um, hello…it’s not a phone.)

The analysis shows that the number of people intending to buy an iPad now that the first reviews are out has jumped, with 87% of those polled on Twitter indicating they will join their fellow Apple groupies.

As part of their Griffin Technology Advantage program, Seton Hill will be giving all first year undergraduate students a 13″ MacBook and an iPad. After two years, the University will replace the laptop with an upgraded model the students can take with them after graduating.

Students will be able to use both the laptop and the iPad at all times for both educational and personal purposes. The faculty will also be equipped with and trained on how to use both devices. The hope is that the technology will assist students in continuing to make education a part of their lives after graduation. From their website:

Seton Hill is training students of all learning styles and abilities to be better researchers, better at compiling and organizing data, and better at publishing and presenting information – better, in fact, at becoming lifelong learners who can easily adapt to new situations and new technologies in their lives and careers.

The tuition? I’m afraid to ask. But considering the iPad hasn’t been released yet, this news reinforces that we’re not just looking at another fun gadget. It’s a sign of the positive changes this new technology will bring in many fields in the coming months and years.

Photo by myuibe, feature photo by EricaJoy

Amazon’s new app allows Kindle users to access their Kindle book collection on any Mac running OS X 10.5 or higher, which includes their popular Whispersync feature. Between that and the app Barnes & Nobles released, despite their nook being in direct competition with the iPad, it would seem as if the e-book war has reached an agreement.

However, The New York Times reported yesterday that in their discussions with publishers on the sale of e-books, Amazon has once again threatened to stop book sales on their website – a highly criticized move they tried in January with Macmillan.

Under the Apple plan, publishers set consumer prices and Apple acts as an agent, taking a commission. After the disagreement with Macmillan, Amazon agreed to let publishers set Kindle prices. But they are insisting on three-year contracts, as well as a guarantee that Apple and other competitors will not get a better price.

As e-books are a relatively new phenomenon and there are several predictions as to the path digital publishing will take, few publishers want to commit to a three-year contract. According to the New York Times:

Amazon appears to be responding to the Apple threat by waging a publisher-by-publisher battle, trying to keep as many books as possible out of Apple’s hands, while preserving as much flexibility as it can to set its own prices.

But if Amazon tries to enforce its demands by removing “buy” buttons from some pages again, some believe it could harm its reputation in the eyes of customers and the publishing industry.

It’s an interesting dance to watch, as smaller publishers rely more on Amazon for sales for a greater customer reach. As the battle for the large publishers continues, Apple isn’t taking the little guy for granted either, and the company is currently looking for an independent publisher account manager for iBookstore that will be responsible for Apple’s relationship with small publishers and self-published authors.

Apple began accepting pre-orders yesterday for both Wi-Fi and 3G enabled iPads, each available with 16GB, 32GB, and 64GB and free shipping. The Wi-Fi versions are reported to ship on April 3rd, while the 3G devices will ship in late April.

CNN Money provided the statistics on the AAPL Sanity board’s research:

• An estimated 119,987 iPads were sold
• Customers chose the Wi-Fi model over the 3G model by around two to one
• The 16GB, 32GB, and 64GB versions sold fairly equally

The iPad does not come with iBookstore app, but it is a free download. Interestingly, Barnes & Noble announced that they will soon offer their own app for the iPad – a wise move, as not all eReader fans will prefer the nook to Apple’s device. Barnes and Noble posted on their blog Thursday that this is part of their promise to provide consumers with “any book, any time, anywhere.”

Photo by The Creative Penn, feature photo by Eg0n

Good news for travelers who rely on gadgets for reading: the Guardian reported yesterday that eReader owners can now access the New York Times book review by standalone digital subscription. The book review will first be made available for Sony eReaders, with the Kindle and nook soon to follow. Pricing for the subscription hasn’t been announced yet.

As the Guardian pointed out, this is another example of the newspaper looking for new revenue by “deconstructing the New York Times into its most valuable pieces for various platforms.”

Another example of publishers joining the digital age, no doubt spurred by the release of the iPad earlier this year. At the 2010 eReader Symposium, where the NYT book review plans were announced, deputy managing editor of design Chuck Rose also mentioned an app in development for USA Today:

“When Steve Jobs made the iPad announcement, [USA Today Publisher David Hunke] said we want to be in the store on the day of launch.”

[via News & Tech]

Last November YouTube released a beta version of their auto-caption features, which uses the speech-to-text algorithms in Google’s Voice Search to generate video captions. Those capabilities are now available to all YouTube users, a particularly helpful tool for the deaf and those trying to learn English.

Captions are only available for videos in English, although YouTube has mentioned plans at including more languages this year – great news for any of us learning a second language.

Photo by boltron-, feature photo by adria.richards

I’m a gadget geek, sure, but I’m a music geek first. So when I hear about the SXSW festival in Austin, my first thought is always “who’s playing?”

But this year I’m more curious about the latest in technology rumors that will surely start flowing through the blogoshere on March 12th. As TechCrunch pointed out, Twitter won the SXSW Web Award…in 2007. Well before it became the “OMG I can’t live without it” little piece of social media that it is today.

So what should we expect in 2010? Scrolling down the schedule, a few things in particular catch my eye:

Could The iPad Have Saved Gourmet? The (New) Future of Magazines – Love the title. Hope someone sends the memo to a few folks in the publishing industry.

Interviewing the President: How YouTube Can Do It Better – As the event description says, “come learn how engaged citizens, accidental reporters, aspiring journalists, bedroom vloggers, cable news-clippers, and the mainstream media co-exist in the YouTube news ecosystem.”

Recession 2009-2010: The Best Time to Launch Your Startup – They say more than half of our biggest companies were started during a recession or depression. Possibly some great tips here for those ready to break free and do their own thing.

Social Media Marketing for Your Business – Sound advice sure to be found here for those social media douchebags we all know and love.

And those are just on Friday. Other highlights answer serious issues, like how to promote your brand with apps, to the seemingly inane (but most likely necessary) question: can you copyright a tweet?

What do you expect to see from SXSW 2010? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Photo by halighalie, feature photo by House of Sims

Hunter Clarke at Gadgetell recently reviewed Free All Music, an invitation-only website which allows you to download five songs a week, remove DRM, and use it in programs like iTunes, for free.

The website uses advertising – specifically, requiring you to watching a video ad (you can choose from a selection) before downloading your tune. Clarke points out that while five tunes a week doesn’t seem like much, it could add up to $20 a month you might have spent on iTunes instead.

Try it out for yourself by heading to Free All Music and clicking Request an Invitation, then let us know how it goes in the comments section!

Of course, to have complete control over the final product, you’ll want to design and develop your smartphone app the old-fashioned way. But for businesses who want a simple app without taking the time to learn the technicalities, two websites have just made it easier.

YAPPER (Your APP Maker)

This program is WYSIWYG technology aimed at helping bloggers, newspapers, pod casters, and others make apps for the iPhone, iPad, and Android in just four steps. According to Appletell, that means YAPPER is limited to RSS feed apps. Features include:

• Build the app in 4 easy steps using a WYSIWYG tool
• No coding required use existing RSS feeds (RSS, RSS 2.0, ATOM)
• Major foreign languages supported
• Multiple mobile devices support: iPhone, Android and iPad
• Optimized for mobile user experience: Mobile optimized UI (mobile friendly entire article content with images and videos), Content caching (users can read offline), Fast (no straight RSS feed parsing), Location enabled
• Customization options for App icon, splash image and tab icons
• Push notifications for breaking stories and events
• Monetization and analytics support

Registration is normally $499, but they’re running a special of only $99 (the cost it takes to register as an iPhone app developer) until February 19th.

iPhone App Builder

Created by SelfServeApps, this one charges between a setup fee of $99 and $29 monthly to $499 for setup and $99 a month, depending on what you’re looking for. They’re marking the builder to web developers, ad agencies, PR firms, and creative companies.

From the press release:

There is no programming involved and they can reuse the web content and graphics they have already produced for their clients. A dashboard is included to manage multiple projects and a content management system makes updates to applications easy, without having to resubmit to the App Store.

Basically, they’re offering to do for apps what Blogger and Wordpress did for websites (more or less). To me, this is another sign that apps are changing the business game. Would you consider one of these programs to make an app for your website or business? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Photo by Cristiano Betta, feature photo by jonrawlinson

I just learned that Apple has a cap on application prices, and that cap is a penny shy of $1,000. The only app charging that price right now (since the ridiculous “I Am Rich” was thankfully pulled from the store) is the newly released BarMax, a study aid for students preparing for the bar exam.

It’s pricey, yes – until you find out that BarBri, the most popular course aimed at bar exam preparation, charges between $3,000 and $4,000. Unlike a few other outrageously expensive apps, this one suddenly doesn’t seem so bad. From TechCrunch:

“BarBri has long had a complete stranglehold over this particular kind of exam prep. Because of that, it was able to charge whatever it wanted. Thanks at least partially to this, it has been subject to multiple class-action lawsuits (again, hardly surprising when you’re pulling this kind of stuff with future lawyers) saying the service was using anti-competitive tactics to maintain their dominance, among other things.”

Other bar exam courses have tried to compete, but BarMax seems to be the first one that might succeed. BarBri is making changes, like including unlimited online access to their materials and getting rid of the $2,000 re-enrollment fee for students who don’t pass the exam the first time around.

Just a few days ago I was reviewing a great Spanish language class app when a thought occurred to me. Depending on you own language learning goals, you’ve got books, CDs, DVDs, and computer software to choose from, along with private instruction or classes. With this particular app, I had textbook explanations of grammar rules, audio recorded by native speakers, games that were actually pretty fun and educational, cultural information, and writing and reading exercises.

The price was $6.99. Less than a book (with no audio help), less than a “Learn In Your Car” CD (no help with writing or reading.) Some computer programs and classes might be more helpful, but again – look at the price! I felt like I could get a decent, well-rounded start to Spanish for seven bucks.

Smartphone apps are changing the game. Developers are coming up with brilliant, useful, affordable programs that could potentially challenge almost any business to rethink its products and pricing. Now that BarBri is scrambling to change its ways, I’m just wondering who’s next.

I’m definitely one of those dorks who gets more excited about the Superbowl commercials than the game itself (this year being an exception, seeing as I’m a born and raised New Orleans gal).

This year the ads were a bit of a letdown – with the exception of this Google ad, which is a search engine screenplay of an American finding love in Paris. If you missed it, check it out:

Photo by Brian Solis, feature photo by Brian Lam

Tom Conlon at Popular Science has a theory. The newly released iPad, which runs on iPhone OS, doesn’t have Flash, a camera, blah blah blah, is Apple’s way of pushing that kind of more restrictive, closed operating system on tablets – the future of computers.

You can do on the iPad only what Apple allows. And if you are allowed to do something, you have to go through iTunes or MobileMe to do it. Apple makes a nice chunk of change on everything you do, but more importantly it gets to play gatekeeper.

In OS X, Apple can’t block you from using apps it doesn’t like or competes with. But it famously blocks you from doing so on the iPhone and now presumably on the iPad, which is connected to the same App Store. How long before it blocks movies, TV shows, songs, books and even web sites? Scoff now, but don’t be so naïve as to believe that this isn’t possible.

The iPad is not a personal computer in the sense that we currently understand. Once we replace the personal computer with a closed-platform device such as the iPad, we replace freedom, choice and the free market with oppression, censorship and monopoly.

Imagine what life would be like if your personal computer functioned like the iPhone. You’d have to buy all your programs through Apple, and if Apple didn’t want you using something like, say, Google Voice, Abobe Flash or Microsoft Word, then you’d be out of luck. Oh, and multitasking would be a thing of the past. Sounds great, doesn’t it?

Interesting thoughts. He does make me wonder if and when Apple plans on releasing a version of the iPad that runs OS X, since that would be essential in my decision to eventually replace my laptop with this device. Note that I said my decision – because what I need out of my laptop is not necessarily what the next guy needs. Something a few folks in his comments section clearly don’t understand:

Apple products are for stupid people. These products are designed for people who can’t operate anything but a simple interface and don’t understand the basics of computing.

Photo by Brian Lam

Hilarious. I use my Macbook to write fiction and non fiction, to compose music, to blog, to stay in touch and connect with family and friends, to network…but no, I’m not a programmer. I suppose I don’t really understand the “basics of computing.” Therefore, I guess, I am a stupid person.

Another commenter summed up my feelings rather nicely:

If all you do is browse the web, check Facebook, and watch Youtube vids, and you want to do it in style, then the iPad is for you. If you need to work and multitask then get Macbook with OS X. Do you really think OS X will be tanked one day?….Apple employees need to multitask, too!

Well, yeah. Sorry commenter #1, this isn’t in defense of Apple, this is in defense of people. People who use computers for those features and only those features are not stupid. We don’t want to build our own computers. We’re very impressed that you can do it – honestly – but why can’t people with varying levels of technological ability have something that runs smoothly and is designed for them?

And while I think Mr. Conlon brought up some excellent points in the original article, I’m not quite sure we’re facing a future with Steve Jobs playing Big Brother. Realistically, if anyone is buying an iPad right now to replace their laptop, than that’s simply because the iPad already does everything they ever wanted in a computer. And that’s okay.

Maybe Apple will release an iPad with OS X, and more of us will consider switching. Maybe they won’t, and will continue to stick to selling the iPad to customers who simply like gadgets but aren’t looking for a laptop replacement.

A plot for world domination? Or just another toy? Share your thoughts on Apple’s decision in the comments below!

Personally, I’m not a fan of “*insert gadget here* killer”. I’d rather new advances in technology inspire and motivate others to keep up and evolve, not brutally end what was a good idea. So in the spirit of technological progression, check out TechCrunch’s Top 10 Reasons The Apple iPad Will Put Amazon’s Kindle Out of Business…I mean, Encourage Amazon to Design a New and Improved Kindle.

My favorite of their reasons:

• The price, clearly. The iPad is cheaper than anticipated, and TechCrunch points out that it’s only $10 more than a Kindle DX. And “ereader” is only one of the iPad’s functions.
• The sexy Apple experience. Yeah, that’s not what the Kindle was going for in the beginning. It tries to mimic a real paperback in electronic format, and it succeeds. But – and please know that I am one of those who love the feel of an actual book, flipping pages under my fingers – maybe that was just a stepping stone to get people accustomed to the idea. Reading a book on a Kindle, an iPhone, a laptop, it’s common now. The iPad makes the whole thing seem more advanced, futuristic, cool.
• Formatting, formatting, formatting. TechCrunch said it perfectly:

  With the iPad, out of the gate publishers can create whole experiences. Want to create something unique in the market to draw consumers? Publishers can go beyond e-books, and create an app using one of the world’s most popular SDK platforms.

The Nexus One is pretty sweet – would it exist if the iPhone hadn’t come first? Whether you like them or not, Apple products inspire innovation. What do you think the iPad will lead to?

Granted, the iPhone camera isn’t exactly stellar to begin with. But if it’s all you’ve got, at least now you can get rid of those nausea-inducing shaky vids. Check out the Steadicam Smoothee, recently revealed at the International Consumer Electronics Show:

From the Steadicam Smoothee press release:

The lightweight, agile, and easy to use Steadicam Smoothee features an innovative, patented design built around a durable mono-frame metal structure that requires no complicated instruction to use. With its “go anywhere” compact dimensions, The Steadicam Smoothee is approximately 8”W x 14.5” H x 2.5” D (20.3 x 36.8 x 6.4cm) in operating configuration. While designed for the Apple i-Phone 3Gs, the patented quick release removable i-Phone mount also serves as a tabletop stand or can be mounted to any tripod with a standard ¼ x20” camera mount and the comfortable ergonomic hand-grip folds up securely when not in use. Also included with the Steadicam Smoothee is a quick guide DVD on how to get the best possible shots, along with a carrying strap.

Interested in iPhone camera accessories? Check out Matador editor Paul Sullivan’s iPhone Traveler Apps Series.

Photo by hirnrinde, feature photo by U.N. Development Programme

In a press release on January 14th, T-Mobile informed customers that phone calls to Haiti would be free of the regular charges through January 31st, 2010. In addition, any T-Mobile customers currently in Haiti can roam the company’s partner networks (Voila and Digicel) free during this time period.

From USA T-Mobile president and CEO Robert Dotson:

“Our company and our employees care deeply for our customers, and we know that many customers have been directly impacted by the disaster in Haiti. While our thoughts go out to those in Haiti who are suffering so greatly at this time, our promise is to help people connect with those who matter most. I can think of no better time to demonstrate this commitment.”

No matter what service you use, you can donate $10 to the Red Cross by texting “HAITI” to 90999.

Stay up-to-date on the rescue and rebuilding efforts in Haiti, and learn more about how you can help, on Matador Change.

The Parrot Helicopter puts you in the cockpit, taking iPhone games to a whole new level. Features like automatic flight stabilization, real-time camera view, and multiplayer options create a true augmented reality game.

This video makes me giddy with gadget fever:

No word on price yet, but as one YouTube commenter put it: “Buying. No matter how much it costs.”

Photo courtesy of Gizmodo

Out of the top 20 nations in the ITIF Broadband rankings, the good old U.S. of A. ranks in at…fifteen. Ouch. Compare our average of 4.8mbps and $3.33 per 1 mbps to Sweden, where an average of 18mbps costs around $0.63. In a rather unshocking finish, Japan and Korea rank first and second, with 61mbps and 46 mbps, $0.27 and $0.45, respectively.

A collaboration between The Wonderfactory and Time, Inc., this video simulates flipping through an issue of Sports Illustrated on a tablet, like the highly rumored Apple iSlate. In addition to reading about the game, you can watch replays. Instantly send Tweets or Facebook updates of your favorite articles. And of course, there’s the “more lively” swimsuit issue to look forward to as well.

There’s been a lot of dark and depressing talk lately about where publishing is headed. The industry is changing, sure – for writers too – but if this is where we’re going, seems more like a revival than death to me.

Photo by pacomexico

A few features include:

• Use Geobrowse—a visual geographic search tool—to find articles, photographs, and maps about the location you choose
• Browse special “read lists” from National Geographic or personalize your archive by creating and saving your own lists of favorite articles
• Test your knowledge of subjects including exploration, the environment, geography, history, cultures, and more with a trivia game that links to related articles
• Includes a bonus DVD with tips on how to take better photographs, an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at how National Geographic Magazine is put together, and interviews with NGM photographers revealing the backstory behind their famous photographs
• USB cable included
• Partitioned hard drive includes separate space for 100GB of your personal files

This collection can only be shipped in the U.S. or Canada.

Price: $199.95

]]> http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-120-years-of-national-geographic-in-your-backpack/feed/ 3 http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-worlds-most-expensive-christmas-card/ http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-worlds-most-expensive-christmas-card/#comments Fri, 25 Dec 2009 03:21:32 +0000 Michelle Schusterman http://matadorgoods.com/?p=4165 You might want to consider extra bubble wrap before sending this card out in the mail.

Want to really wow someone with a step above your average Hallmark card? Grab some card paper, a ruler, some sparklies, and an iPhone, (make sure to download Bauble!), and check out this video:

]]> http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-worlds-most-expensive-christmas-card/feed/ 0 http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-google-waves-goodbye-to-2009/ http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-google-waves-goodbye-to-2009/#comments Tue, 22 Dec 2009 02:03:39 +0000 Michelle Schusterman http://matadorgoods.com/?p=4082 Relive the major events of the past twelve months in one succinct Google Wave.

The talented folks at Whirled Interactive have created another awesome Google Wave, this one summing up all the ups and downs of 2009. Perhaps not the most productive way to use Wave, but certainly one of the most interesting and dramatic.

Thanks to TechCrunch for pointing this one out.

]]> http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-google-waves-goodbye-to-2009/feed/ 0 http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-fly-with-free-wi-fi/ http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-fly-with-free-wi-fi/#comments Mon, 21 Dec 2009 05:48:25 +0000 Michelle Schusterman http://matadorgoods.com/?p=4050

Photo by superfem, feature photo by WexDub

Give yourself the gift of free wi-fi on your flight this holiday season.

In the spirit of giving, My Money Blog reports that Gogo Inflight Internet is offering a few promo codes that will get you a free session of wi-fi on participating flights, including American, Delta, United, Virgin, Airtran, and Air Canada.

The codes are only good once per account, but users are reporting that you can enter any name and email address to access a free session. Either way, free is a nice price to pay for a little bit of email time in the air.


Promo Codes:

Expire 12/31/2009
DELTATRYGOGO
AIRTRANTRYGOGO
AATRYGOGO

Expire 1/7/2010
2287548427snk
2472564126dvu
2285632980tlk

]]> http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-fly-with-free-wi-fi/feed/ 4 http://matadorgoods.com/what-is-the-decades-best-gadget/ http://matadorgoods.com/what-is-the-decades-best-gadget/#comments Thu, 17 Dec 2009 21:30:32 +0000 Lola Akinmade http://matadorgoods.com/?p=4022

Photo courtesy of mobile-t-mobile

Think you know which gadgets have been deemed the most innovative, cutting-edge products of the last ten years?

According to Poynter Online,

A decade ago, we wondered whether the arrival of 2000 would shut down our electrical grids and phone systems and leave us without pagers. Now, as 2010 dawns, we look back on a decade that had more downs than ups, but at least created some cool stuff to play with.

These “cool stuff” cover the gamut of technology offerings – from GPS devices and Smartphones to High Definition TV and DVRs. Interestingly, Poynter notes that these advances in technology have “had a significant impact on the work journalists do.”

The decade’s top techno-tools, in no particular order, are:

• GPS devices
• iPod
• BlackBerry
• Digital Cameras
• HDTV
• HD cameras
• Flip camera
• DVRs
• 3G phones (The first 4G network just launched in Sweden)
• High-speed Wireless Phone Cards
• Cell-phone Apps
• Big flat-screen TVs – LED, LCD
• Slingbox
• Nintendo Wii
• Flash Drives
• eBook readers
• Noise-canceling headphones

Both Gizmodo and PasteMagazine have compiled their own similar best gadgets lists.

With all the visionary goodies this decade has produced, I’m certainly looking forward to what techno-tools the next 10 years will bring.

Did Poynter miss any gadgets? What do you think is the single most important gadget developed over the last ten years? Do tell us below.

]]> http://matadorgoods.com/what-is-the-decades-best-gadget/feed/ 8 http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-swype-vs-qwerty-and-does-it-really-matter-who-wins/ http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-swype-vs-qwerty-and-does-it-really-matter-who-wins/#comments Tue, 15 Dec 2009 22:57:04 +0000 Michelle Schusterman http://matadorgoods.com/?p=3993

Photo courtesy of Indaba Music

In the all-important quest to make texting easier, Swype is taking QWERTY keyboards thumb-on.
As the epic battle between iPhone and Android, touchscreen and keyboard, and good and evil rages on, developers are becoming more focused on the deciding factor: how can we make it easier for drunk people to text about walking in on their parents?

Enter Swype. (If you haven’t heard of it, I promise I didn’t just misspell Skype in the title.) A Swype keyboard has the same layout as QWERTY, but rather than tap each letter, you touch the first letter of the word and drag your finger to the following letters. In other words, you swipe. (See how they did that?)

So which is faster? TechCrunch did a little comparison:

Swype wins. Or rather, won. Because (of course), less than twenty-four hours later, a die-hard Jobs groupie dropped his thumb weights to prove them wrong:

And the battle continues. Who will win? Will humans ever discover the ideal texting solution? Will it perhaps involve implanting a chip in our heads that allows us to text via brain waves? Is there anything geekier than this? And more importantly, will anyone ever hold a verbal conversation again?

]]> http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-swype-vs-qwerty-and-does-it-really-matter-who-wins/feed/ 1 http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-google-phone-goes-from-rumor-to-reality/ http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-google-phone-goes-from-rumor-to-reality/#comments Sun, 13 Dec 2009 03:20:01 +0000 Michelle Schusterman http://matadorgoods.com/?p=3919 Of all the talk of “iPhone killers” that has dominated the blogosphere lately, nothing has caused quite the splash of the Google Phone – which most considered just a rumor until recently.


Photo courtesy of Unlockr, feature photo by Robot Skirts

As far as smartphone operating systems go, it hasn’t been the iPhone, but rather Android dominating the gadget blogs this holiday season. TechCrunch stated that the day of the Google Phone was looming a month ago – and now it seems they were right.

As per usual lately, the news broke with a tweet, or rather, several tweets, from those claiming to have their hands on the unlocked phone. The frenzy was followed by a post on the Google Mobile Blog:

We recently came up with the concept of a mobile lab, which is a device that combines innovative hardware from a partner with software that runs on Android to experiment with new mobile features and capabilities, and we shared this device with Google employees across the globe.

How vague of you, Google. But the guys at TechCrunch seem to know what’s going on. Here’s what they predict:

It will be called the Google Phone and will launch in early January, 2010. It won’t be sold by any one carrier, but instead will be an unlocked GSM phone. In the U.S., that means T-Mobile and possibly AT&T, whose exclusivity deal with the iPhone is about to run out. It will be running Android 2.1.



The phone is “really, really fast,” says someone who has seen one in action. It runs on a Snapdragon chip, has a super high-resolution OLED touchscreen, is thinner than the iPhone, has no keyboard, and two mics. The mic on the back of the phone helps eliminate background noise, and it also has a “weirdly” large camera for a phone. And if you don’t like the touchscreen keyboard, a voice-to-text feature is supposed to let you dictate emails and notes by speaking directly into the phone.

What I’m curious about is the physical keyboard, or lack thereof – while I’m actually partial to the touchscreen keyboard, many Droid fans refuse to consider a phone without real buttons to push. I can’t see a voice-to-text feature, no matter how great, satisfying that need.

Either way, my plan is to sit back and watch Google and Apple battle it out for world smartphone domination.

]]> http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-google-phone-goes-from-rumor-to-reality/feed/ 8 http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-guide-to-powering-your-gadgets-inflight/ http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-guide-to-powering-your-gadgets-inflight/#comments Sat, 12 Dec 2009 03:25:09 +0000 Michelle Schusterman http://matadorgoods.com/?p=3913

Photo by randomecho, feature photo by Aaron Escobar

Tired of your laptop battery quitting mid-flight? Follow these tips to keep your movies going all the way to your final destination.

When I’m faced with a flight that’s eight hours or longer, I pretty much accept my fate and use my laptop until the little battery symbol shows the tiniest of red lines. But thanks to Gadling’s Ultimate Guide to Powering Your Gadgets on a Plane, I think those days may be over.

Following the instructions requires a little planning ahead, mostly purchasing the appropriate adapter or charger. Gadling presents four scenarios: Powering a laptop with or without seat power, and powering a gadget with or without seat power.

Depending on your flight, and more importantly, your exact seat on the plane, you could have access to EmPower, DC power, AC power, or USB power. Gadling recommends two killer sites – Seatguru and Seatexpert – that let you know all the amenities and features of your exact seat.

The guide provides detailed information on specific adapters and chargers for your laptop, mp3 player, iPhone, and other gadgets to keep them powered through your flight. They didn’t miss a detail, including voltage info and whether or not the outlet will be enough to power your laptop.

Gadling also has great tips on stretching out the life of your battery, and helping you figure out just how much charging you’ll need to do. If you’re a frequent flyer, this guide is one to bookmark.

]]> http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-guide-to-powering-your-gadgets-inflight/feed/ 2 http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-jobys-gorillacam-iphone-app-now-available/ http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-jobys-gorillacam-iphone-app-now-available/#comments Thu, 10 Dec 2009 20:58:22 +0000 Michelle Schusterman http://matadorgoods.com/?p=3889 Joby’s new app adds more useful features to the iPhone camera.


The company that brought us the very cool, highly useful Gorillapods has just released their first iPhone app: the Gorillacam.

While the iPhone camera might never be of use to a serious photographer, Joby has definitely kicked it up a notch with this app. Combined with their Gorillamobile tripod for iPhones, taking decent shots with your phone just got a lot easier.

Gorillacam app features include:

• Self-timer takes timed photos. Perfect for group shots and self-portraits. Works best with the help of the Gorillamobile for 3G/3GS.
• Time-lapse takes multiple photos spaced at an interval. Take photos as fast as 1 second apart, or up to 2 minutes apart.
• Unlimited rapid-fire takes up to 1.6 photos per second. Just press and hold the shutter to take as many photos as you want at super high speed.
• Auto-save lets you keep shooting while your photos save in the background. No more waiting between shots. Snap away, uninterrupted.
• 3-Shot burst takes three quick photographs with one tap. Never miss a second of the action. Plus, no more photos ruined when someone blinks!
• Press anywhere turns the whole screen into the shutter button. Photograph yourself with ease!
• Grid overlay takes your photography to the next level. Create more interesting photographs using the rule of thirds in your composition. Also great for lining up horizons or buildings.
• Bubble level takes steady, level shots every time. Works both vertically and horizontally. Great for shots of horizons, landscapes and more.
• Share photos without ever leaving the app.

Combine all that with the price, and we might be looking at the best camera app in the appstore.

Price: FREE

]]> http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-jobys-gorillacam-iphone-app-now-available/feed/ 0 http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-best-outdoor-iphone-apps/ http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-best-outdoor-iphone-apps/#comments Mon, 07 Dec 2009 17:45:45 +0000 Michelle Schusterman http://matadorgoods.com/?p=3817

Photo by Gonzalo Baeza Hernandez, feature photo by l-i-n-k

Is the iPhone a worthy purchase for outdoor enthusiasts? Steve Casimiro says yes.

Looking for a good star gazing map, or instructions on making a Slippery Hitch knot? Then check out this sweet list Casimiro compiled on The Adventure Life featuring 25 iPhone apps for outdoor activities. A few of my favorites:

Ski Report

This one is a must-have for snow bunnies, providing base depth, recent snowfall, links to weather and webcams, and coolest of all, onsite ski reports from other users already on the slopes.

Trails

For hikers, bikers, and climbers, Trails uses Google Maps to show you roads, satellite views, or topography, and records your trail and distance, whether you’re hiking Rainier or Everest.

Oakley Surf Report

As its name suggests, Surf Report checks all surf conditions, including height, tide, and swell direction, as well as weather updates and a listing of the best beaches near you.

Knots, Splices, and Ropework

This app is actually a copy of A. Hyatt Verrill’s 1917 guidebook, featuring 154 knots with instructions and illustrations. A trusted, classic guide right on your iPhone.

Moon Atlas

For astronomy geeks, this app actually shows you the moon as a sphere (not flat), which no less than 1,800 named features, along with the locations of 26 spacecraft. Something I could lose a few hours playing with for sure.

]]> http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-best-outdoor-iphone-apps/feed/ 0 http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-the-best-and-latest-travel-gadgets/ http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-the-best-and-latest-travel-gadgets/#comments Fri, 04 Dec 2009 03:25:56 +0000 Michelle Schusterman http://matadorgoods.com/?p=3753

Photo by bfishadow, feature photo by andymihail

These gadgets make a great addition to any traveler’s holiday wish list.

Adam Baer and Scott Steinberg at Travel and Leisure have rounded up the best new travel gadgets for this holiday season. Of all the latest phones and slick netbooks, which made the grade?

Phones

Verizon’s Blackberry Tour topped the list thanks to features like a user-friendly keyboard, built-in GPS chips, and quick Web browsing. The “Google Phone” (also known as T-Mobile’s MyTouch) followed, as did the iPhone 3GS, whose touchscreen won out over the ironically named MyTouch. (Clever name though – I suppose imitation is the sincerest form of flattery?)

Laptops



Despite it’s slightly higher price, Baer favored the Sony Vaio W for its high-resolution screen, as well as the Toshiba NB200, which features a remarkable 9-hour battery life.

He also highlighted the Asus Eee 1008HA, which is the first I’ve read about it – known as the “Seashell”, it comes with 10 free gigs of online backup storage and is just an inch thick. Despite technically only being a rumor, the Mac tablet also snuck its way onto the list.

E-Readers

Unsurprisingly, the Kindle II made the cut, despite a small complaint about the keyboard (guarded by a stormtrooper above). Sony’s Reader was also there – at a higher price, it lets you access over a million Google titles, but only holds 350 books and doesn’t allow wireless downloading.

I found it odd that Barnes & Noble’s nook wasn’t even mentioned by name – with a color touchscreen and the ability to read any of the company’s eBooks free in the store, it’s definitely one to consider (even if you can’t have one by Christmas).

Accessories

A tiny personal wi-fi zone offering five hours of service, the MiFi 2200 Intelligent Mobile Hotspot was my favorite on the list. The Mophie Juice Pack Air is a great, more affordable gift for any iPhone users, doubling as a case and extended battery.

And high-tech travelers will definitely appreciate the Iomega eGo Blackbelt, a 500 GB portable hard drive that can operate without external power.

]]> http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-the-best-and-latest-travel-gadgets/feed/ 1 http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-outrageously-expensive-iphone-apps/ http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-outrageously-expensive-iphone-apps/#comments Wed, 02 Dec 2009 16:27:39 +0000 Michelle Schusterman http://matadorgoods.com/?p=3725 Some of these iPhone apps cost more than the iPhone itself.

Unless it looks really sweet, I usually turn my nose up at apps that run over $2.99. Occasionally I come across one for around $20 that can do something really cool, like let you compose music on a seriously decent synthesizer.



Feature photo by blakeburris

So what would an app have to do to cost more than two, three, or even four iPhones put together? Cook your breakfast? Drive your car? Check out these pricey apps the guys at Daily Nuance rounded up.

According to their iTunes page, Lexi-Complete “provides detailed information on drugs, drug interactions, diagnosis, disease management, patient education, and more.” Lexi-Complete is highly rated and seems popular among pharmacists and others in the medical profession. Good thing, too – at $299.99, at least they’ve got the salary to afford it.

MyAccountsToGo, which is aimed at business managers, sales reps, finance executives, and the like, offers access to either the SAP BusinessOne or Microsoft Dynamics GP financial management systems from your iPhone or Touch. That includes real time reviewing and managing transactions, quotations, orders, and returns. Well, hopefully not too many returns – your business had better be booming if you’re throwing down $449.99 for this one.

Extra cash cluttering up your wallet? Consider downloading iRa Pro to help keep an eye on all the Lamborghinis in your Bat Cave. This app is a mobile command center, giving you live video surveillance from up to six cameras straight to your iPhone, with remote abilities that include tilting, zooming, capturing, and even emailing images.

All for $899.99.

Holy Recession, Batman.

]]> http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-outrageously-expensive-iphone-apps/feed/ 1 http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-freaky-futuristic-gadgets/ http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-freaky-futuristic-gadgets/#comments Mon, 30 Nov 2009 22:07:00 +0000 Michelle Schusterman http://matadorgoods.com/?p=3595 These gadget designs seem more like science fiction than science.


Photos courtesy of WebUrbanist

WebUrbanist has rounded up a few amazing gadget and tech designs that make James Bond’s toys look like…well, toys.

A few that made the list almost seem a step backwards, like the Warmouse OOMouse, which has no less than 18 customizable buttons.

Others were downright creepy – case in point, the Amoeba Phone, a tiny hunk of plastic that contours to your face like the Blob, but with reception. Or this bed-and-entertainment-center, which makes Wall-E seem frighteningly plausible.

But most are downright cool. How about speakers that are nothing more than a clear membrane on your TV screen?

A headset that allows you to control video games with your brain?

Or maybe contact lenses that deliver news, weather, and email right to your eyes, and an implant that allows you to touch a word and hear its definition and pronunciation whispered in your ear?

Amazing progress? Freaky sci-fi movie? Share your thoughts in the comments section!

]]> http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-freaky-futuristic-gadgets/feed/ 3 http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-ipod-touch-is-more-than-a-black-friday-gift/ http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-ipod-touch-is-more-than-a-black-friday-gift/#comments Thu, 26 Nov 2009 15:08:38 +0000 Michelle Schusterman http://matadorgoods.com/?p=3582 Working the cash register on Black Friday? There’s an app for that, too.


Photo courtesy of Wired, feature photo by jardenburg

In the ongoing battle of Mac vs. PC, it seems odd that the workers in those blindingly white Apple stores surrounded by slick Macbooks and iPhones would use…the horrors…a Microsoft product to help customers. But alas, in the past they have indeed been employing Windows CE-based handheld computers in the checkout line. Of course, like Vista, there were complaints of the usual crashes and general tortoise-like operation.

The solution?

An app, of course. According to Wired, the workers now use an iPod Touch with an application called EasyPay Touch to scan items, read credit cards, issue returns, and more. Much like the excitement of using your iPhone to, say, print a document on the printer in the next room, this Friday workers and customers alike will get to geek out over tapping “cash” on the Touch and opening a register drawer on the other side of the store. (Does anyone else see a potential safety issue here?)

Wired points out a bit of irony – to accept signatures, the Touch needs a stylus, which Wired themselves named “The Most Useless iPhone Accessory. Ever.” two years ago. Still, it seems a small price to pay for yet another shinier, sexier replacement for a Microsoft product. Even if it is only the employees that get to use it.

]]> http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-ipod-touch-is-more-than-a-black-friday-gift/feed/ 0 http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-check-out-e-books-from-the-library/ http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-check-out-e-books-from-the-library/#comments Tue, 24 Nov 2009 18:09:49 +0000 Michelle Schusterman http://matadorgoods.com/?p=3504 If heading up to your library and checking out a book is too much trouble, how about getting online and temporarily downloading it – free and legally?


Photo by Mike Licht.
Feature photo by goXunuReviews

Whether or not you’re a fan of e-readers like the Kindle or nook, they aren’t going anywhere. According to The New York Times, you might even be able to soon check out e-books from your local library.

NYT reports that the New York Public Library, for example, “has about 18,300 e-book titles, compared with 860,500 in circulating print titles, and purchases of digital books represent less than 1 percent of the library’s overall acquisition budget.”

It’s a small start, but it’s a start nonetheless. In a time where the only purpose books sometime seem to serve is to be made into a blockbuster movie, it’s refreshing to see libraries making great literature both old and new even more accessible to the public.

Maybe newspapers and publishers haven’t quite figured out how to embrace the digital age, but it seems at least libraries are thinking about the future.

]]> http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-check-out-e-books-from-the-library/feed/ 1 http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-mobile-evolution-as-russian-dolls/ http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-mobile-evolution-as-russian-dolls/#comments Sat, 21 Nov 2009 14:48:41 +0000 Michelle Schusterman http://matadorgoods.com/?p=3447
British designer Kyle Bean’s latest creation shows the evolution of mobile phones, matryoshka style.

I vaguely remember my parents having a gray version of the second phone from the left in our minivan, and my first cell phone looked remarkably like the third from the right.




Check out more on this project and others (like The Future of Books) on Kyle’s portfolio.

]]> http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-mobile-evolution-as-russian-dolls/feed/ 4 http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-beanie-with-built-in-headphones/ http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-beanie-with-built-in-headphones/#comments Tue, 17 Nov 2009 21:54:15 +0000 Michelle Schusterman http://matadorgoods.com/?p=3315 For those of you heading into the winter months, now there’s no need to stuff your headphones under your head gear.


Photo Courtesy of Aerial7

From Aerial7 comes the Sound Disk Beanie; a line of snug, knit beanies with high-quality, ultra-slim headphones built right in.

Choose from a variety of colors and styles, including black, gray, brown, and combinations.

The headphone features include:

• Driver Diameter: 35mm
• Impedance: 32Ω
• Frequency Response: 20~20KHz
• Sensitivity (S.P.L.): 100±3dB (at 1KHz)
• Input Plug Diameter: 3.5mm iPhoneTM
• ADAPTERS
• 3.5mm iPhone™~3.5mm standard

The Sound Disk Beanie is compatible with most mp3 players and cell phones, including the Blackberry and the iPhone. For iPhone users, the beanies also come with a built-in microphone. With a price comparable to any quality headphones, the Sound Disk Beanie might make a great gift for anyone whose scalp never sees the light of a winter day.

Price: $59.99

]]> http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-beanie-with-built-in-headphones/feed/ 1 http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-driving-a-car-with-an-iphone/ http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-driving-a-car-with-an-iphone/#comments Mon, 16 Nov 2009 15:32:35 +0000 Michelle Schusterman http://matadorgoods.com/?p=3288 Drive a car with your iPhone? Yeah, there’s an app for that.

Of course, you might also have to do a teeny bit of modifications on your car, too. Plus, trying this at home would be, well, stupid. But the guys at Waterloo Labs gave it a shot. Check it out:

]]> http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-driving-a-car-with-an-iphone/feed/ 0 http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-desktop-pc-for-senior-citizens/ http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-desktop-pc-for-senior-citizens/#comments Fri, 13 Nov 2009 18:20:30 +0000 Michelle Schusterman http://matadorgoods.com/?p=3249 A recently released simplified computer is aimed at people over 60 who feel uncomfortable with regular PCs.

According to BBC News, this new desktop, called SimplicITy, was created in a collaboration between Wessex Computers and television presenter Valerie Singleton, and uses a custombizable Linux operating system. SimplicITy has just six buttons which help users unfamiliar with tasks like checking email, chatting, and storing files.

This PC also comes with 17 video tutorials for additional help presented by Ms. Singleton herself, who claims to be shocked by the number of senior citizens without computers (6.4 million over 65 have never been online, according to a survey in August 2009 by the Office for National Statistics).

Some folks are excited about this effort to help the elderly, but others are sure to find it offensive. (And with an email system called “Eldy”, it’s not hard to see why).

What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

]]> http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-desktop-pc-for-senior-citizens/feed/ 3 http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-readability-gets-rid-of-the-clutter/ http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-readability-gets-rid-of-the-clutter/#comments Thu, 12 Nov 2009 16:28:44 +0000 Michelle Schusterman http://matadorgoods.com/?p=3220 Clear your screen of advertisements with one click.


Photo by Pascale PirateChickan

Every once in a great while, I stumble across something online that’s free, useful, and takes about two seconds to install. The folks at Arc90 Lab have designed something that’s exactly that – a bookmarklet that gets rid of anything on any webpage that isn’t text or pictures, leaving you with a clean, easy-to-read screen.

It’s called Readability, and here’s how it works: Choose a style, size, and margin width, then drag the link to your browser’s tool bar. Visit any website and click “Readability” in your toolbar to get a nice, uncluttered view. You can also reload to the original page, print, or email the clean version. It’s like having any content on the web available in e-reader form.

]]> http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-readability-gets-rid-of-the-clutter/feed/ 3 http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-vertical-sleep-pod/ http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-vertical-sleep-pod/#comments Wed, 11 Nov 2009 16:58:20 +0000 Michelle Schusterman http://matadorgoods.com/?p=3125 Ever felt like you could just fall asleep on your feet? Now you can snooze while standing in total comfort.

The Office for the Development of Substitute Materials brings us the Vertical Bed, an ingenious contraption that fully collapses to fit into a briefcase.

The Vertical Bed provides total support for body weight when attached to subway ventilation grating. The components include noise-cancelling headphones, opaque sunglasses, and a free standing umbrella case. (An ideal feature for future versions might be some sort of alarm system to ward off pick-pockets.)

Want to see it in action? Check out this time lapse video of a man taking a 40 minute nap at Broadway and 33rd St. in New York.

]]> http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-vertical-sleep-pod/feed/ 1 http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-itunes-tv/ http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-itunes-tv/#comments Thu, 05 Nov 2009 20:16:31 +0000 Michelle Schusterman http://matadorgoods.com/?p=3064 Forget cable…how about a subscription to iTunes TV for $30 a month?


It seems like I haven’t gone a day in the past month without someone talking, posting, or tweeting about Hulu, so it came as no surprise to hear that Apple is throwing their hat into the TV networks rink.

According to Peter Kafka, Apple has been pitching this offer to TV networks as part of the iTunes software (no Apple TV box this time).

So far no one has jumped on board, but with the popularity of Hulu and Netflix, it seems like it’s only a matter of time.

]]> http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-itunes-tv/feed/ 1 http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-with-apple-theres-always-one-more-thing/ http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-with-apple-theres-always-one-more-thing/#comments Wed, 04 Nov 2009 19:10:27 +0000 Michelle Schusterman http://matadorgoods.com/?p=3055 Watching the progression from iMac to iPhone will leave every Apple junkie wondering…what’s next?

And yes, I’m definitely one of those proud junkies.

However, even I have to admit that this video, put together by the guys at MacLife, had me giggling at first with the wild applause bestowed upon the bubbly, candy-colored iBook.

But watching the evolution of that to the Air, which was ceremoniously pulled out of a manila envelope to oohs and aahs for its public introduction, is pretty cool.

As is the procession of the first bulky iPod to the iPod Touch, which I am lovingly cradling in my lap as I type.

With the rumors about the Tablet announcement in January spreading for months now, I’m wondering if Mr. Jobs has “one more thing” he’s not letting us in on just yet.

]]> http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-with-apple-theres-always-one-more-thing/feed/ 0 http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-build-your-own-secret-door-knock/ http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-build-your-own-secret-door-knock/#comments Tue, 03 Nov 2009 19:54:16 +0000 Lola Akinmade http://matadorgoods.com/?p=3044 Forget secret handshakes, this nifty little detector actually recognizes a series of coded “door knocks” and instantly unlocks your door.

Move over retinal and fingerprint scanners, the latest in personal identification devices is this door knock detector, made from Arduino hardware, PVC pipes, and other bits and pieces programmer Steve Hoefer found in his tech lab.

Basically, the detector works by recording and counting time between a series of knocks and then unlocking your door. Simple enough, right?

According to Make:

Of course, this system is susceptible to a replay attack, because anyone can listen to the knock pattern and then know how to get in.

If you are planning to use something like this, I would recommend either incorporating a timestamp into the message, or using a series of one time knocks, in order to make it harder to break into. Actually, that might make it more secure than a regular lock.

So what do you think? “Cool” or “Weird”?

]]> http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-build-your-own-secret-door-knock/feed/ 2 http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-laptop-disguised-as-a-yoga-mat/ http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-laptop-disguised-as-a-yoga-mat/#comments Mon, 26 Oct 2009 19:21:02 +0000 Michelle Schusterman http://matadorgoods.com/?p=2959 Orkin.]]> Think the Apple tablet sounds cool? Check out this laptop design by Orkin.

The future is here…well, not yet. But Rolltop is a pretty sweet concept, functioning as a mini-notebook, a 13″ graphics tablet, and 17″ flat screen monitor, all rolled up and ready to go.

]]> http://matadorgoods.com/technology-bytes-laptop-disguised-as-a-yoga-mat/feed/ 9 http://matadorgoods.com/1000-cellphones-play-tchaikovsky/ http://matadorgoods.com/1000-cellphones-play-tchaikovsky/#comments Sun, 25 Oct 2009 12:43:39 +0000 Lola Akinmade http://matadorgoods.com/?p=2964 Now cellphones are not just for lighting up concerts and stadiums at night.

Recently stumbled across this cool video produced by Vodafone. 1,000 cellphones along with 2,000 text messages play Tchaikovsky’s 1812 overture in an innovative (yet disturbingly time-wasting) production.

Intrigued? There’s apparently a followup video that shows us how Vodafone orchestrated (pun intended) the whole thing in an Auckland, New Zealand studio.

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