Gadgets Review

Meridian Fly MC100

2008-06-05T23:11:00.002+05:30

Meridian Mobile recently launched its candybar phone, Fly MC100. The device targets music aficionados with its Yamaha-powered audio engine, a 3.5mm adaptor to let you use your own headphones, and support for MP3 and FM radio. Equipped with a 2-megapixel camera, the phone also sports a 2.4-inch TFT screen with 256K colours. Other features of the gadget include connectors for both television and PC, MPEG-4 encoder and decoder, Bluetooth, and a voice recorder. More information about the phone, which carries a price tag of Rs 8,000 and $200.

Visit : Meridian Fly MC100

Cybershot DSC-H50

2008-05-24T16:02:00.002+05:30

Hiroko Nakamura displays Sony’s new high-zoom digital camera ‘Cybershot DSC-H50’, in Tokyo on Wednesday. The 9.1-megapixel device boasts of a 30x optical zoom lens and 3-inch LCD screen.

The company will put it on the market this month for Rs 19,990 and $500

HTC TyTN II

2008-04-30T23:43:00.003+05:30

HTC recently unveiled its newest Windows Mobile 6 smartphone, the TyTN II. It comes equipped with a 2.8-inch, QVGA TFT-LCD display, 400MHz processor, 256MB ROM, 128MB RAM, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Qwerty keyboard, 2 cameras (one 3-megapixel and one VGA), and supports microSD cards. If that’s not enough, consider that the 190gm device allows users to get connected in any country with tri-band UMTS and it also boasts of 3.5G high-speed Internet – 9 times faster than 3G. For more on the device, which retails at Rs 33,000 and $825

Visit : HTC

Sony Ericsson launches ho hum Z780 and G502 cellphones

2008-04-23T17:22:00.001+05:30

Sony Ericsson just announced a pair of mid-range handsets. The Z780 clamshell -- now official -- is the global sister to the announced Z770 for Europe. As such, she comes packing UMTS/HSDPA 850/1900/2100 and quad-band GSM/GPRS/EDGE radios. While it comes loaded with Google Maps for Mobile and aGPS navigation, you won't get much use from it on that itty bitty 128 x 160 pixel display of unknown dimensions. Hell, that bezel chews up an equivalent amount of real estate. The G502 candybar also features Maps but lacks aGPS. No worries for US Americans though as it's likely to stay put in Europe with UMTS/HSDPA 2100 and GSM/GPRS/EDGE 900/1800/1900 radios. Both will feature M2 memory expansion, Bluetooth, and 2 megapixel cameras when they launch in "selected markets" come Q2. Sorry Sony Ericsson, but we're not seeing a lot here to distract investors (or consumers) for very long.

Acer readying Aspire 5920 with built-in WiMAX

2008-04-21T23:43:00.002+05:30

Acer only the latest to offer the mobile broadband option as a built-in feature, in this case in an updated version of its Aspire 5920 laptop. What's more, according to InfoWorld, the laptop will apparently be sold through Sprint and other companies along with WiMAX sevice "in a manner similar to the way mobile phones are sold along with service packages," although any further details on that are unsurprisingly a bit light at the moment. There's also unfortunatlye no further word on the specs to the laptop itself, although those details are promised to be coming when Acer officially launches the laptop, which "could" come by the end of the year.

Trimon 3D monitor gets reviewed

2008-04-17T16:52:00.001+05:30

Zalman may be far from being a household name, but a stranger to 3D displays it isn't. The company's latest 22-incher not only packs a 1,680 x 1,050 resolution panel and a bundled set of glasses, but it features the ability to render graphics in 3D. The eager critics over at Trusted Reviews had a nice sit with the device, and when all was said and done, the ZM-M2020W was seen more as a building block for revision two than a runaway winner as it was. On the upside, it did manage to render some pretty phenomenal scenes in 3D -- and even managed to change the reviewer's perception of the technology -- but the overly glossy screen and steep price tag kept it from being recommended without hesitation.

Optimus Maximus Keyboard

2008-04-12T15:13:00.001+05:30

For as beautiful and functional as this beast is, we still felt that actually typing on it -- you know, its primary purpose -- left a lot to be desired. Still, it's hard to deny the ingenuity in the OLED-stuffed 'board, but with such a lofty price tag and even loftier expectations, we can't imagine all of the lucky early adopters being a hundred percent satisfied. For those that laid out for this exquisite piece of kit, how on Earth could revision two be better? Want a few more keys to play around with? Could it stand to lose some of that clicky tactility? Or will it really only be worth the coin once it bags your lunch, irons your shirt and chauffeurs you to work?

Gibson intros SG Robot Guitar

2008-04-11T23:05:00.004+05:30

The first version of the self-tuning Les Paul was a rather limited edition, but now Gibson is sharing the wealth by introducing two more widely available models. The guitar-maker will issue the original iteration of the axe, but it will now be joined by Gibson's other familiar face, the SG. Both models will apparently be available in a funky, purple-metallic finish (which we suspect only Prince could truly love), and will go on sale for a "limited time" -- though Gibson hasn't said what the cutoff will be. So, if you've got $3,999 for the Les Paul, or $3,599 for the SG, now might be the time to buy.

Nikon slides out S52 and WiFi-friendly S52c

2008-04-10T12:51:00.001+05:30

Nikon is fleshing out its "Style Series" of shooters with the COOLPIX S52 and S52c (pictured) compact cameras. The two cameras are pretty much spec-for-spec identical other than the WiFi capabilities of the S52c which allow it to upload shots wirelessly to services like Flickr or Nikon's own "my Picturetown." Otherwise you're looking at a pair of fairly standard compacts, with 9 megapixel sensors, 3x zoom, optical image stabilization and so forth. Both will be available in May, with the S52 retailing for $250, and the S52c arriving at $280.

Epson Stylus Photo R1900

2008-04-08T20:27:00.001+05:30

Epson recently unveiled the new photo printer from its Stylus series, the Photo R1900. The eight-ink printer boasts of printin photos on A3+ paper at 1440x720 dpi (dots per inch) in only 106 seconds. Supporting resolutions up to 5760x1440 dpi, the device offers direct photo printing from inputs such as digital cameras and photo-viewers, as well as dual USB 2.0 ports for multiple PC connections. For more details on the gadget, which retails at Rs 39,999 and $1000.

Visit : Epson

Windows XP-powered Eee PC laptop: $400

2008-03-31T11:14:00.003+05:30

Sounds like we've finally got a price and a date for the XP powered Eee PC: $400, and April 9th. The hardware's identical to current-gen Eee PCs, though, so if you're happy with your little white lappy and are itching for XP you might try to pick up a license on eBay. Still, if all goes well for ASUS, they'll be selling 4x what they did the first time around, innit?

P.S. -If you are, for whatever reason, itching to read more about current hardware running the 7 year old OS, Laptop's got a hands-on. Nothing that wasn't already out there though.

Sony BDU-X10S

2008-03-31T10:48:00.003+05:30

Sony recently debuted in India its first internal Blu-ray disc (BD) ROM drive, the BDU-X10S. The gadget comes bundled with CyberLink’s PowerDVD BD Edition software for playback of commercial movie titles, recorded Blu-ray Disc home videos, DVD-ROMs and CD-ROMs. The internal drive allows fast and easy transfer of data or videos through its Serial ATA (SATA) interface - and its standard 5.25-inch form factor enables easy installation in desktop PCs. For more on the device that retails at Rs 16,950 and $425.

Visit : Sony

Fly V60

2008-03-24T18:36:00.001+05:30

Fly Meridian recently unveiled a low-end candybar phone, the Fly V60. The 69-gm device offers 500 phonebook entries, along with support for FM Radio, MP3 ringtones, speaker phone and pop-port USB. Its tiny LCD screen boasts of a resolution of 128x128 pixels at 65k colours. With a talk-time of 3 hours and a standby time of 420 hours, the gadget retails at Rs 1,850.

Visit : Fly V60

Sony Ericsson's XPERIA™ X1 - Energized communication

2008-03-23T22:13:00.002+05:30

Convergence of communication and entertainment:
XPERIA™ X1 lets you enjoy the convergence of communication and entertainment. Choose an experience by simply touching the XPERIA™ panel interface. The QWERTY keyboard makes writing fast and easy.

On the inside:
With Windows Mobile® inside, you can enjoy your favorite entertainment and work efficiently on the move. XPERIA™ X1 is a premium mobile experience.

Distinctive design:
Arc slider design, 3 inch Wide VGA display and premium metal body: with its sophisticated and distinctive design, XPERIA™ X1 redefines premiumness.

3G HSDPA high-speed Internet:
The third generation of mobile networks brings the convenience of broadband Internet to your mobile phone. Fast data transfer speeds - up to 3.6Mbit - give you quick, easy access to a world of video calls, audio and video streaming, Web surfing, multimedia messaging and email wherever you go.
What's in it?

1.
XPERIA™ panel interface:

Enjoy access to different experiences - Web, multimedia, applications - from your desktop. Navigate with the tip of your finger. Configure and have your XPERIA™ panels just the way you want them.
2.
Arc slider design:

The arc design gives XPERIA™ X1 a distinctive and unique look. Slide the screen upwards to reveal the wide-pitch QWERTY keyboard.
3.
Video call:
See who’s talking with your 3G phone. During a video call, you see a live video stream of the person you're talking to - and they can see you.
4.
Integrated camera:

Built-in digital camera with screen viewfinder, dedicated menus and direct interaction with in-phone imaging and messaging features.
5.
RSS feeds:

Use your phone to view up-to-the-minute news and other content from selected websites and blogs. Just subscribe to the feed and let it come to you.
6.
Web wherever:
Truly mobile Internet lets you enjoy browsing the Web and manage your email effectively with the convenience of your phone, wherever you are.
7.
Links you like:
Forget cables - wireless is the way forward. Connect to other devices with Bluetooth™ to sync, share and send.
8.
Multiple navigation:
XPERIA™ X1 lets you interact via numerous intuitive ways. Touch, full QWERTY, 4-way key and optical joystick - you switch seamlessly between operation modes.
9.
3G:
Quick and easy access to broadband Internet. Say hello to video calls, audio and video streaming, Internet surfing, multimedia messaging and email on the go.
10.
Push email:
Instant email on your mobile phone, just like on your home computer. Messages are sent directly to your phone as soon as they arrive.
11.
Capture the action:
Video clips are ideal for those unexpected great moments that happen when you're out there, enjoying life.
12.
Handwriting Recognition:
Text input using stylus on touchscreen: write a character as you would with a pen, and it transforms it into the corresponding letter on a keyboard.
13.
Blog your life:
The easy way to share your life in pictures. Take or choose a photo, add a little text and publish it for friends and family to enjoy.
14.
The Wi-Fi alternative:
For a fast Internet connection in hotspots, your phone has Wi-Fi support.

Nike's SportBand ready for April launch?

2008-03-16T21:08:00.001+05:30

SportBand we saw sashay into the FCC's database late last month. Reportedly, the unit isn't meant to replace the Nike+iPod system; rather, it's an alternative for runners who'd prefer not to have earbuds in and a DAP on their person when logging their treks. As expected, time, speed, distance and calories will all be tracked, and each run can be captured and stored on the outfit's website after you thumb a ride back home. We're told to expect said device in April for €59.95 ($93), but only time will tell if that's an accurate assertion

BenQ E900WA LCD

2008-03-08T15:09:00.002+05:30

BenQ recently launched the E900WA, a 19-inch widescreen LCD monitor that boasts of a native resolution of 1440x900 pixels, with a contrast ratio of 700:1 and a response time of 5ms. Besides a 160-degree viewing angle, the device features proprietary Senseye+Photo technology, giving the user four preset usage scenarios, one of which is optimised for photo-editing. For more about the gadget, that retails at Rs 9,400 and $235.

Visit : BenQ

Asus P527 Cell Phone

2008-02-28T00:04:00.002+05:30

Asus recently launched their new GPS-enabled PDA phone, the P527, which is equipped with a 2.6-inch LCD touchscreen isplaying 65k colours at 240x320 pixels.

Powered by a 200MHz processor and 64MB RAM, it runs Windows Mobile 6.0 on its 128MB of internal memory, which can be expanded using a microSD card.

The gadget, which has a 2-megapixel camera and a pop-port USB, also supports FM Radio, MP3, MPEG-4, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth v2.0 and Infrared. With 4-5 hours of talktime and 150-200 hours of standby time, the phone comes ready with a vast application suite. For more on the device that retails at Rs 17,900.

Visit : Asus

Oakley's Split Thumps

2008-02-25T22:06:00.002+05:30

Oakley's Split Thump MP3 player sunglasses' fashion offenses are too numerous to mention, and we're not sure this is helping matters. According to the folks over at Tech Digest, the wrap-around music players will be getting a very special 500-piece, 1GB Jamiroquai edition, replete with purple and white camouflage design and two new remixes from the disco-aping singer's 1993 album Emergency on Planet Earth. Grab your glasses, get out your floppy hat, slip on some Mickey Mouse gloves, and crack open a bottle of Vicks VapoRub -- it's time to party like you don't know any better.

Toshiba's Penryn-based Satellite A300 / P300

2008-02-25T18:11:00.001+05:30

Here comes yet another duo hopping on the Penryn train, and each of these buggers are sporting a Toshiba logo. Up first is the €999 ($1,480) Satellite A300 -- the apparent successor of the A200 -- which features a 15.4-inch display, a refreshed design, Harman Kardon speakers, built-in fingerprint reader, 1.3-megapixel camera, integrated microphone, up to 2GB of RAM, a 160GB hard drive and your choice of a Core 2 Duo T5500 (A300-124) or T8100 (A300-11I).

BenQ E900WA LCD

2008-02-24T21:29:00.001+05:30

ASUS intros the MK241H display with built-in webcam on Display

2008-02-21T19:38:00.001+05:30

ASUS can't go too long without dropping some shiny new piece of gadgetry on us, and that's exactly what they're doing this morning. If you've been in the market for a decently-sized display as of late, you might want to turn your attention to the MK241H, a 24-inch LCD monitor which features 1920 x 1200 (WUXGA) resolution, a 3000:1 contrast ratio, HDMI, D-SUB, and DVD-D (HDSC) inputs, and tops it all off with a built-in 1.3-megapixel webcam. The company is also making a 22-inch version of the screen, the MK221H/S, which packs in a 1680 x 1050 resolution, and a contrast ratio of 5000:1. No word on when these will be available, though we suspect the wait won't be too long.

Sony's Bluetooth-enabled Walkman A820-series

2008-02-20T16:05:00.001+05:30

The NW-A820 series as it's known in Japan does everything its other NWZ-A820 brother can do in Europe (and presumably the US) only with that icky ATRAC and SonicStage baggage in tow. Sony also announced a new ¥20,000 (about $186) VRC-NW10 cradle with video-out and trick little video-in capability for real-time MPEG-4 recordings straight back to your A820-series player. A SRS-NWT10M external speaker is priced low enough at ¥3,000 ($28) that every teen-age jackass riding the subway will have one. Japan will see the new players in black, white and pink and in 16GB and 8GB models priced at ¥38,000 ($354) and ¥28,000 ($260), respectively.

LeapFrog debuts Crammer Study and Sound player for students

2008-02-18T19:19:00.002+05:30

LeapFrog is moving on up the chain, and hitting 3rd through 8th graders with a new study aid, the Crammer Study and Sound System. Crammer works basically as a replacement for those annoyingly handwritten index cards, allowing you to enter data for each side of virtual "cards" and run through them on the 2.5-inch grayscale screen. You can also download study aids for a myriad of subjects, or use the included language tools to automatically translate and pronounce words for study. The built-in music playback is pretty straightforward, and lets kids relax with some songs or listen while they study. We spotted a prototype at the 2008 Toy Fair, and while it wasn't a functional unit, we got to see the iriver clix-style four-way screen clicking controls, which seem friendly enough. Crammer will be out Fall 2008 for $60, and includes 1GB of built-in flash memory.

PSP super-hack hits the internet

2008-02-17T00:08:00.003+05:30

PSP hack we told you about a few weeks ago has hit the interblogs, and we predict all hell will be breaking loose any moment. Un-retired homebrew mastermind Dark_AleX has come up with a little number called Timemachine, which is capable of spinning your PSP back to all sorts of crazy firmwares at the touch of a button.

S3000, A6000 & M8000 Pavilion Slimline by HP

2008-02-17T00:04:00.002+05:30

Three new models of desktop PC series have been launched into the market by HP. The three models of the Pavilion Slimline series are s3000, a6000 and m8000. The first one comes with 1GB of RAM, and you can pick either a AMD CPU or an Intel CPU, but for the later you have to pay an extra 50$. If not you can buy it for 500$. The PC can be set with a low graphic card, maybe a TV tuner and a Pocket Media Drive.

You can buy the a6000 at a lower price then the s3000. It’s just 330$ but you would be throwing off some memory because it has only 512 MB of RAM. But the bright side is that it comes with an Intel CPU, a Pocket Media Drive and a graphics card. But the “jewel of the crown” is the m8000. And the price says so to. At 950$ it has a DVD drive and again you can pick between a dual core AMD or Intel processor. All three models have Windows Vista preinstalled.

Aura Health Concept Device Drags Hippies

2008-02-15T16:41:00.002+05:30

The Aura Health Concept from Frog Design Mind attempts to fuse traditional healing and medical technology that is so cutting edge, we probably won't be able to build it for another 1000 years. I could break down how it is supposed to operate, but the official description illustrates it best

First glimpse of Google’s Android

2008-02-14T13:14:00.001+05:30

A handful of chip-makers at the Mobile World Congress show in Barcelona showed on Monday how a mobile device running Google’s mobile operating system, Android, might look.

“It’s definitely very promising,” an analyst for technology research firm Gartner, Carolina Milanesi, said. “This means that we should be on track to see commercial devices in the second half of 2008.”

With 30 phone, chip and software companies behind it, Google launched Android last year hoping to establish it as the standard operating system for mobile phones and to improve their quality of Web-browsing.

Texas Instruments Inc, the largest maker of chips for cell phones, showed its prototype offering “one-button access” to Web-browsing, email, messaging and video.

“The future ability of Android is exciting because it’s open-source, so it allows developers to come up with the next killer application,” said a company spokesman.

Google said the demonstrations were “exactly the kind of momentum we hoped the announcement and the platform would generate.”

Motorola W230

2008-02-13T14:38:00.002+05:30

Motorola recently unveiled their new music phone, the MotoYuva W230. The device is equipped with a 1.6-inch screen that displays 65k colours at 128x128 pixels. The gadget supports MP3 playback and stereo FM radio, and offers quick-access keys for the same. It also boasts of a battery life of 9 hours of talktime and 450 hours of standby time. The phone offers storage of 500 phone book entries and the same number of SMSes, which can be expanded using a microSD card. For more information on the device that is available for Rs 3,247 and $80.

Visit : Motorola

Dell and HP monitor business

2008-02-12T17:21:00.000+05:30

In all, 14 of Lite-On's LCD monitor production lines have been affected by the damage. The very same lines which supply those hi-speced, low priced monitors to Dell and HP, who along with Lenovo are Lite-On's top contract partners.

LG Announces New Touchscreen Slider KF510

2008-02-09T16:40:00.000+05:30

A few years ago it was all about slim and sleek. Unfortunately, that doesn’t grab headlines these days; at least stand alone. LG’s newest slim slider, though, does rock an ultra tight body and packs in a ton of muscle for its size. Measuring just 10.9mm thin, the LG KF510 sports a 3 megapixel camera and a touchscreen. Not much more is known at this time, but I am sure the details will emerge at the World Mobile Congress next week.

DreamBook Light IL1 runs on VIA, won't run ASUS

2008-02-09T15:36:00.000+05:30

The Eee PC has certainly turned into a sort of rallying point for obscure laptop manufacturers and OEMs, and now Pioneer Computers Australia is getting in on the action. From what we can tell, the DreamBook Light IL1 is a relatively unique shell wrapped around VIA's reference C7-M design. The 7-inch LCD runs at 800 x 480, and the 1GHz processor is backed by up to 1GB of RAM. Most interesting here is the absolute configurability, from OS choice (including Vista, XP and Ubuntu) to connectivity, but unfortunately it comes at a price: the $499 AUD ($446 US) base model doesn't even include WiFi.

Samsung's Soul Cellphone slider is coming

2008-02-08T18:54:00.000+05:30

Samsung just announced their new flagship "Soul" cellphone in the spirit of its Ultra Editions. Get it? Spirit Of ULtra, soul? Yeah. Anyway, as Sammy's go-to phone for 2008, we're looking at a quad-band GSM phone with 7.2Mbps HSDPA; 2.2-inch QVGA display; 5 megapixel, image stabilized camera with Power LED flash and face detection; FM radio; microSD; Bluetooth, and more in a 12.9-mm thin slider. Sweetening the deal is a Magical Touch interface which adapts to your usage (music, camera, etc) a la LG's

XPS M1330 Blu-ray / DVD combo drive

2008-02-07T23:46:00.000+05:30

Blu-ray drive was the monster XPS M2010, but it looks like Round Rock's taking it mainstream soon -- the latest BIOS update for the popular XPS M1330 lists support for an unspecified "Blu-ray / DVD +/- RW Combo Drive." No word on when we'll see these actually for order, but if you were in the market for an M1330, you might consider holding off until these become available.

Samsung multi-function printer goes wireless

2008-02-07T17:43:00.001+05:30

Samsung's sexy little multi-function, monochrome laser printer, copier, and color scanner just hit the FCC with a tiny surprise: 802.11b/g WiFi and 10/100 Ethernet. That's right, Sammy's Swan (aka, SCX-4500) now comes in a SCX-4500W version supporting Windows, Mac, and Linux machines; LPR, IPP/HTTP, DHCP, and BOOTP protocols; and WEP or WPA Personal WiFi encryption. As a bonus, it also supports Bonjour to make network detection for your Mac (and suitably installed PCs) a snap. Not really a surprise since the SCX-4500W made its first US appearance exclusively in Apple's retail stores. No word on when it will pop for retail, but we expect it to snag a $300 or so price tag. FCC glamor shot after the break.

Sonic Boom Valentine Day Clock

2008-02-06T23:45:00.000+05:30

Sonic Boom alarm clock back in March ‘07. Just like Apple, and the rest of the retail world, they too decided to jump on the Valentines band wagon. It’s essentially the same as its brethren, but comes wrapped in a pink heart with multicolor LED lights. I can think of other uses.

BenQ E900WA LCD

2008-02-06T16:56:00.000+05:30

Play Station 3 Gets Satin Silver Makeover in Japan

2008-02-05T16:48:00.000+05:30

Sony Japan just announced a brand new satin silver version of the PS3. The standard 40GB machine will hit shelves in Japan on March 6th, but don't expect the color refresh love to be extended to the States anytime soon. Press release after the jump.

Sony Computer Entertainment Japan (SCEJ), a division of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. (SCEI) responsible for business operations in Japan, today announced that it would release PLAYSTATION®3 (PS3®) 40GB model in a new "Satin Silver" color in Japan on March 6th, 2008, at a recommended retail price of 39,980 yen (including tax). "Satin Silver" will also become available for DUALSHOCK®3 Wireless Controller at a recommended retail price of 5,500 yen (including tax). A new fine metallic "Satin Silver" is offered as an additional color to the existing PS3® (CECHH00 Series) line-up of "Clear Black" and "Ceramic White". Choosing from a broader selection of colors to match their lifestyle and preferences, users will be able to enjoy next generation interactive entertainment contents on Blu-ray Disc as well as via the broadband network at home.

Jabra BT 5020

2008-02-04T18:07:00.000+05:30

For people who are tired of holding their cell phone to their ear, Jabra recently introduced their BT 5020 Bluetooth headset. A new call is alerted by a vibrating and visual signal on this device that can be charged from the PC via a USB. Boasting 10 hours of talktime and 250 hours of standby time, the battery status is indicated by its multi-coloured LED. The gadget, which can be paired with two handsets at a time, retails at Rs 3,080 and $75.

Visit : Jabra BT 5020

Digital single lens reflex (SLR) cameras

2008-02-03T19:56:00.000+05:30

Sony showcased two new entry-level digital single-lens reflex (SLR) cameras, Alpha 200 (left) and Alpha 350 (right) in Tokyo, Friday. The Alpha 350 features quick auto-focus and live-view functions, along with an adjustable LCD screen. The device will retail in March at about 90,000 yen (Rs 34,000 approx). The Alpha 200, on the other hand, will be available in mid-February for a price of around 60,000 yen, Rs 22,000 and $550.

Jobo announces Photo GPS camera

2008-02-02T17:53:00.000+05:30

Jobo's Photo GPS camera add-on since it was announced around the time of last year's PMA show, and it now looks like that's been for good reason, as the company's apparently decided to have another go at this whole "product launch" thing at this year's PMA. From the looks of it, however, not much has changed with the device itself in the ensuing months, with it still promising to attach to your camera's flash hot shoe and record GPS information as you shoot, and squeeze all that data into your images' EXIF metadata (or XML file in the case of RAW images) when you sync it up. Assuming things don't change any further, you can now apparently look for the unit to hit "mid-year," when it'll set you back $159.

Sigma's APO 200-500 F2.8 telephoto lens

2008-02-01T18:48:00.000+05:30

Sigma's new APO 200-500 f2.8 ultra telephoto zoom lens. Weighing 16kg (35-pounds), it's the world's first to offer a F2.8 aperture at 500mm focal length. A dedicated F5.6 attachment ensures autofocusing at 1000mm while an internal Li-ion battery powers the zooming and AF mechanics. Available for Sigma and Nikon mounts in June or Canons in April for ¥2,500,000 or nearly $25,000.

Cruiser/Harley Kendon Bike Lift

2008-02-01T11:25:00.000+05:30

The Cruiser Bike Lift is perfect for domestic and import motorcycles. With a 1,000 pound capacity the Cruiser Bike Lift can accommodate most bikes on the road. This Cruiser Bike Lift can fit a bike up to 90" long (measured from the front of the front tire to the center of the rear axle).

The Kendon Stand-Up motorcycle lifts do everything the big lifts do except take up space when not in use. The motorcycle lifts are perfect for routine maintenance, bike cleaning, and detailing. The Kendon Stand-Up motorcycle lift capacity of 1,000 pounds is perfect for Choppers and Cruisers. The Bike Lift capacity of 600 pounds is ideal for Sport Bikes, Dirt Bikes, Scooters, and Street Bikes. The air-over-hydraulic jack makes the bike lift usable anywhere. Raise the platform wherever you happen to be working using the manual hydraulic pump, or use the lift in a shop environment with compressed air doing the heavy lifting. Storage of the motorcycle lift is a snap... the lift stands up in a corner of your garage or shop when not being used. The powder coated steel components provide years of trouble free service.

Motorcycle Lift Features:

* Air-Over-Hydraulic Jack - Use the manual pump or an air compressor
* Integrated Wheel Chock Locks
* 1,000 Pound Weight Capacity (600 pounds for sport bike lift)
* Full 32 inch working height when raised
* Variable height locks
* Full line of optional accessories (work trays, oil drain pans, and more)
* Removable front and rear section for easy access to wheel replacement and cleaning

Nokia E51

2008-01-31T19:18:00.000+05:30

Nokia recently unveiled the E51 for business professionals.

Amongst its myriad features, the device boasts of an FM radio, music and multimedia player, and a 2-megapixel camera (with video recording in H.263 (3gpp) and MPEG-4).

On the business front, the gadget is equipped with Active Notes that enable users to create notes containing both text and multimedia; a voice recorder; five party conference calling; the Nokia browser (for Internet services), and an in-device search functionality.For more on the phone that retails for Rs 14,669 and $375.

Visit : Nokia E51

Nikon announces D60 and lenses

2008-01-29T11:24:00.000+05:30

Nikon DSLR isn't full-frame either, but their new low-ender is now (officially) the D60, which enters the scene with a 10.2 megapixel sensor, 2.5-inch LCD (nope, not live-view), SDHC, vibration sensor cleaning, and an even smaller body than the D40x. Nikon claims February

SkullCandy Headphones

2008-01-28T14:51:00.000+05:30

I remember the time, when cassette players appeared and at once became popular. Later portable CD players occurred. Everyone dreamed to have one. Of course, when they became cheaper they spread everywhere and their popularity has grown fast. Now they are in disfavor. MP3 players replaced CD players and more than that MP4 players exist today. Everyone who loves music and videos, appreciates the quality of its sounding will follow the progress in music players for sure. Consequently, a person will make choice in favor of such devices as MP3 or MP4 players, which are tiny and include favorite
music/video loaded from one's computer. What about listening to the music with no player?

As for the given gadget it is very handy and modern. The SkullCandy headphones allow listening to the music without any player. Everything it needed is an SD card that can be of any size. The controls are on the side of one headphone. The SkullCandy headphones' battery is also rechargeable.

The most significant thing that should be mentioned concerning the gadget is that the SkullCandy headphones exclude all the inconveniences of different players and their wires. I mean a person shouldn't worry about the place for his or her player. More than that, it won't take space in one's pockets.

WiFi coming to Massachusetts commuter train

2008-01-28T13:13:00.000+05:30

According to a report, a 45-mile commuter railroad line in Massachusetts is about to get a WiFi upgrade, bringing wireless connections to more than 18,000 passengers across 17 stations. Utilizing Sprint's EV-DO service, this will be the largest deployment of train-based WiFi outside of Europe and will bring access to 45 coach cars in the line. "There is not one commuter rail system in the country that has this right now," said Kris Erickson, MBTA deputy chief of staff, adding, "We know there are going to be some technical glitches, but we want to get in there and test it in a real environment and get a much better idea how to do it." The plan is to eventually bless all 13 commuter lines in Massachusetts with wireless capabilities, thus allowing networked games of Sid Meier's Railroads! to actually be played while on a railroad.

Universal Remote's KP-900 RF keypad remote

2008-01-27T18:41:00.000+05:30

RF remote to control your home automation gizmos, or do you get one of those snazzy wall-mounted keypads installed to handle the same duties? Frankly, we'd recommend option C, which would involve picking up a device that operates as both depending on your mood. Universal Remote Control's KP-900 is one such unit, which easily snaps into and out of a wall mount for use in both of the aforementioned scenarios. Furthermore, there's even a built-in LCD which showcases relevant activities depending on what main selection you make first. As with everything else spotted in the FCC, you'll have to wait a tick longer before finding out a price or release date, but it looks like this bugger may actually be worth holding out for.

Aigo F529 Omnisphere MP3 music System

2008-01-23T19:45:00.000+05:30

Aigo recently launched their button-less music system, the F529 Omnisphere in India. The device, which comes with 1GB of built-in memory and an expandable SD slot, boasts of multidirectional output for full 360-degree sound. The device also glows with 4,096 different colours, changing according to the volume or the beat of a track. Along with support for MP3 and WMA formats, it has a 5-watt dynamic bass boost. For more information about the MP3 system, which retails at Rs 5,200.

Visit : Aigo

Creative EP-630

2008-01-21T15:37:00.000+05:30

Creative Technology recently made available their noise isolation EP-630 earphones in India. The device claims to offer great audio reproduction and bass output thanks to a high-quality transducer. The in-ear buds seek to provide isolation from surrounding noise, and offer a choice of sizes for fitting. The gadget is available in two colours, black and white, with the latter designed to match the looks of an iPod. With a one-year warranty, it retails at Rs 1,280 and $30.

Visit : Creative EP-630

ASUS P750 Cellphone

2008-01-20T00:09:00.000+05:30

Asus recently launched in India their new PDA phone, the P750. The device features full 3.5G connectivity, along with a built-in GPS antenna, and support for Bluetooth v2 and USB 1.1. Running on Windows Mobile 6 Professional, it comes bundled with a suite of business software, including time planners and news updates. The gadget boasts of a 2.6-inch touchscreen and 256MB of memory with an expandable microSD slot. The P750, with its talk time of up to six hours, also has a 3.15-megapixel auto focus camera that uses the Business Card Recognition feature to automatically capture contact details. For more on the phone that retails at Rs 28,990 and $725.

Visit : Asus

Computerized Chopper Bike

2008-01-14T09:22:00.000+05:30

I’m having a bit of a session on bikes at the moment and the coolest I’ve found so far has to be the operational concept chopper produced in collaboration between Intel and Orange County Choppers with just a little help from Black Diamond. The concept was to produce a product capable of operating under some pretty tough conditions and to show the potential of the current embedded technology. The result was the SwitchBack PC, a product which was already in development stages by Black Diamond. They just needed to make it dirt, weather, shock and vibration proof (easy peasy) and ensure it was also ultra-mobile. And what better way to demonstrate all of this by putting it into a motorcycle.

The finished bike has fingerprint recognition ignition system, digital dashboard with a complete infotainment system including web access and other processor based operations. Another neat feature are the rear mounted cameras to see what’s behind you, thus eliminating the need for rear view mirrors. Capable of wireless connectivity, including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and GPS and with plenty of other oh so cool features.

Camera Underwater reaches 75 feet without housing

2008-01-13T11:51:00.000+05:30

Well you have to give it to the SeaLife ECOshot, regardless of how good or bad it takes underwater photographs, any camera that can take a direct drop from over six feet has to be a crowd pleaser in our clutzy world. It’s got a sleek design that’s encased in rubber handholds for easy gripping, even with dive gloves on.

Powered by a pair of AA batteries to keep the camera small and light, the EcoShot can reach a maximum depth of seventy five feet without an underwater housing. That makes it great for snorkeling and beginning to intermediate scuba divers who are looking to take pictures of the underwater sights rather than set dive records. And with a 6MP CMOS sensor, it hits the digital camera “sweet spot” which states that six megapixel chips are an ideal balance between megapixels and light sensivitiy. And considering that it can get pretty dark down below six feet, the ability to take in and record as much light as possible – even with a flash is a good thing.

The camera also has an interval meter which can set the camera to shoot pictures automatically anywhere from 5 seconds to five minutes. It comes with a small 14MB of internal memory, and sadly, it can only take 1GB SD cards. And at $230, you’d think a diver could at least slide a 2 Giger in there. But this baby’s strengths are in it’s robustness, not in it’s storage capacity.

Sony PlayStation 3 is cheap now

2008-01-12T20:23:00.001+05:30

Sony has apparently been able to slash the production cost of its PlayStation 3 in half. More specifically, it was noted that the firm has been able to "shrink the PS3's chips and tweak its design," which aided in getting the cost per machine "to around $400 now, from above $800 just before it went on sale in November 2006." According to Nikko Citigroup's Kota Ezawa, the biggest culprit for such an improvement is the "reduction in the parts count."

Sony PlayStation 3 is cheap now

2008-01-12T20:23:00.000+05:30

Xbox 360 may go Blu-ray

2008-01-10T18:46:00.000+05:30

Microsoft’s Xbox 360 video gaming console still fully backs Toshiba’s HD-DVD high-definition DVD format, but could consider supporting Sony’s rival Blu-ray technology should consumers want it, an executive said on Tuesday.

“It should be consumer choice; and if that’s the way they vote, that’s something we’ll have to consider,” Albert Penello, group marketing manager for Xbox hardware said when asked if Microsoft would support a Blu-ray DVD accessory in the event that HD-DVD failed.

Microsoft does not believe the decision last week by Warner Bros, the top seller of home movies, to abandon HD-DVD in favour of Blu-ray should affect sales of the Xbox 360, Penello said.

“With the PlayStation 2, DVD was a big part in the beginning, but over time, people were not buying it as a DVD player after the first year or two,” Penello said.

Although calling the Warner decision a setback, Penello is still optimistic.

“You can’t say it’s not a bummer, not a setback, but I’ve seen this battle declared over so many times,” said Penello. “I want consumers to have a voice in this. There are a lot of consumers who bought HD-DVD and are going to have a say in how this shakes out.”

Logitech's diNovo Mini keyboard and Z Cinema speakers surround

2008-01-05T16:14:00.000+05:30

The diNovo Mini keyboard (which pretty much is what it sound like, and is intended for Windows boxes) and the Z Cinéma 2.1 system with an included Windows Media Center remote. US pricing and release as we get it, but Tech Digest is claiming it'll be end of January launch. One more diNovo Mini shot after the break.

Epson PictureMate PM270

2008-01-02T00:51:00.000+05:30

Epson recently launched their latest portable photo printer, the PictureMate PM270. The device boasts of a print time of 37 seconds for a 4R lab-quality photo with support for upto 5760dpi, or dots per inch. Equipped with a tiltable 3.6-inch LCD screen and a battery pack, the gadget offers the ability to print on-the-go without the use of a PC, with an average cost of Rs 9 per 4R print. It comes with a slot that reads most common memory cards, and also is Bluetooth compatible in case a user wants to transfer images directly from his phone or some other wireless device. The printer is also equipped with a set of buttons for editing images on the screen. Retailed as a bundle, the device comes with 150 pieces of 4R photo paper and one ink cartridge, which is sufficient for the same 150 pieces. For more on the printer, which is available for Rs 11,500 and $285.

Visit : Epson

LG KU990 Viewty

2007-12-31T21:30:00.000+05:30

The new touchscreen phone LG KU990, also known as the Viewty, was recently launched in India. The device’s 3-inch LCD screen renders 256k colours at a resolution of 240x400 pixels. Along with a VGA camera at the front, it is also equipped with a 5-megapixel camera with auto-focus and flash, along with image stabilisation and face-tracking features; and it can record VGA video at 30fps. The 3G phone also supports Bluetooth and A2DP, Radio, MP3, USB 2.0, but not an infrared port. The gadget comes with an internal memory of 100MB, but can be expanded using microSD cards. For more on the device, which retails in a black finish at Rs 21,900 and $50.

Visit : LG KU990 Viewty

Laptop: Sony VAIO TZ150N

2007-12-31T18:49:00.000+05:30

The Sony VAIO TZ150N is extremely slim and light yet manages to squeeze in DVD burner. It has a head-turning design, excellent battery life and includes integrated WWAN.

Almost impossibly slim, the body of the Sony VAIO TZ measures just less than an inch thick. Adding the standard battery raises the rear of the laptop slightly, to 1.17 inches thick, but this is still one of the smallest systems you'll find outside of a UMPC. Because it weighs less than three pounds, the VAIO TZ feels a little fragile, especially around the hinges, but the carbon-fiber casing should offer adequate protection.

The keyboard uses evenly spaced flat keys, much like an Apple MacBook. The tiny keys and touch pad felt usable, but it takes a little practice before you get accustomed to where everything is. A row of tiny media control buttons sits on the front edge, while the glowing, green power button has been relegated to end of the system's circular hinge.

The Sony VAIO TZ150 prides itself with an incredibly impressive battery life. Using the standard battery (Sony also offers an extended battery, but is costs an extra $299).

Only the high price and sluggish performance detract from Sony's inch-thick flagship laptop, the VAIO TZ, which impresses with smart design and fantastic battery life.

Specifications:

Platform Technology: Intel Centrino Duo
System Type: Notebook
Built-in Devices: Stereo speakers, Bluetooth antenna, Wireless LAN antenna
Embedded Security: Trusted Platform Module (TPM 1.2) Security Chip , Fingerprint reader
Width: 10.9 in
Depth: 7.8 in
Height: 1.2 in
Weight: 2.6 lbs
Wireless Capabilities: 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11a, Bluetooth, 802.11 pre-N
Core voltage technology: Ultra Low Voltage (ULV)
Installed RAM Size: 1 GB / 2 GB (max)
RAM Technology: DDR II SDRAM - 533 MHz
Hard Drive: 100 GB - 4200 rpm
Card reader type: Card reader
Supported flash memory cards: Memory Stick, SD Memory Card, Memory Stick Pro
Graphics Processor / Vendor: Intel GMA 950
Wireless NIC: Intel Wireless WiFi Link 4965AGN

Images of Pentax's K200D DSLR surface?

2007-12-30T16:23:00.000+05:30

Pentax could be readying a pair of new DSLRs, and now it seems that we've been blessed with a plethora of shots of the K200D. 'Course, we suppose they could be doctored, but we just don't believe someone would spend that much time working up Pentax fakes, ya know? Regardless, feel free to hit the read link and check out what's probably the outfit's next shooter -- or some mighty fine 'shops, worst case scenario.

Dell XPS M1330 Thin and Light Laptop

2007-12-29T14:02:00.000+05:30

The 13.3-inch Dell XPS M1330 notebook, based on Intel “Santa Rosa” mobile PC platform, is now available for purchase at computer maker’s website.

Dell XPS M1330 features the latest Intel Core 2 Duo processor, ranging from the new T5250 (1.50GHz,2M L2 Cache,667MHz FSB) to T7700 (2.4GHz,4M L2 Cache,800MHz FSB). It is built on GM965 chipset with integrated Intel GMA X3100 graphics or PM965 chipset paired with dedicated NVIDIA GeForce Go 8400M GS 128MB. Regarding notebook’s screen, there is a standard 13.3-inch WXGA display or an optional WXGA LED backlight display. Dell’s new XPS laptop supports up to 4GB of DDR2 memory and comes with 32GB solid state drive or a standard hard drive with up to 200GB storage space and with 5400rpm and 720rpm rotational speeds, depending on model. It has an integrated slot-loading DVD burner.

The XPS M1330 provides a wireless connection with an optional support for wireless N (802.11n draft standard), Bluetooth option, Ethernet LAN, and broadband wireless options.

It has ExpressCard 54mm slot, a 8-in-1 removable memory card reader, Firewire Port, and two USB ports. For video output there are HDMI and VGA out (Update: According to product specifications, an HDMI output is available only in models with GeForce 8400M).The M1330 notebook features a fingerprint reader and an integrated web camera mounted on the top of the laptop’s display panel. The models with a standard screen feature 2 megapixel webcam, while those with a LED backlight display have 0.3 megapixel sensor.

Dell XPS M1330, which has a new chassis design available in Tuxedo Black, Crimson Red or Pearl White colors, is advertised as “the World’s thinnest 13.3-inch notebook”. Its weight starts at 3.97lbs.

Specifications:

Platform Technology: Intel Centrino Duo
System Type: Notebook
Built-in Devices: Wireless LAN antenna
Weight: 4 lbs
Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo T7500 / 2 GHz
Installed RAM Size: 2 GB / 4 GB (max)
RAM Technology: DDR II SDRAM - 667 MHz
Hard Drive: 160 GB - Serial ATA-150 - 5400
Type: DVD±RW - Integrated
Card reader type: 8 in 1 card reader
Display Type: 13.3 in TFT active matrix
Graphics Processor / Vendor: Intel GMA X3100
Audio output type: Sound card
Audio output compliant standards: High Definition Audio
Camera Type: Integrated, 2 megapixel
Input device type: Keyboard, Touchpad

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-S730 compact Digital Camera

2007-12-27T20:19:00.000+05:30

The Sony Cybershot S730 lets you grab clear, blur-free pictures without the aid of flash if you’re shooting in low light or on cloudy days. Selecting ‘High Sensitivity’ mode on the easy-to-adjust mode dial boosts sensitivity to ISO 1250. This allows shooting at faster shutter speeds to reduce the risk of camera shake, even with moving subjects. A new multi-point autofocus mode ensures pin-sharp images, even when your subject is moving or isn’t in the centre of the frame.Pictures and camera settings can be viewed clearly on the large 2.4-inch screen. Touching a button switches instantly to Playback mode, making it quick and easy to check pictures during shooting. There’s also an on-screen Histogram mode that displays image brightness in graphical form - useful if you’re fine-tuning exposure settings for the best possible results.Sony CyberShot DSC-S730 Camera functions
Even if you’re new to digital photography, the Sony CyberShot S730 guides you with a handy display of functions like flash, macro and self-timer settings. There’s also on-screen advice to help you select the right settings for your chosen subject as selected with the Shooting Mode dial. The Sony DSC-S730 digital camera can even help beginners pick the optimum image size for shooting, depending on your preferred printing paper size and the amount of memory space remaining.

Sony CyberShot S730 Specifications
• 7.2 effective megapixels
• 2.4-inch LCD screen with wide viewing angle
• High Sensitivity ISO 1250 for reduced camera shake
• Easy-to-use on-screen function guide
• 3x optical zoom lens

Optimus Maximus Keyboard Announced on February

2007-12-26T20:58:00.000+05:30

Optimus Maximus keyboard isn't quite ready for prime time yet, and will be delayed until late February. Lucky for you reckless early adopters out there, if you pre-ordered the Maximus you can get Art Lebedev to ship you the keyboard now, it'll just be lacking its final firmware, and therefore you've got a bit of a hack job to look forward to when Lebedev releases the full firmware, which will be software-updatable. Not exactly exciting news, but we'd much prefer Lebedev get this out the door than site around a few more years waiting on perfection.

Vivid Audio's G1 Giya speaker for X-mas

2007-12-25T12:16:00.001+05:30

Vivid Audio's G1 Giya speaker rocks a wild design, comes in a variety of automotive paint finishes and aims to catch the eye of style conscious enthusiasts more so than diehard audiophiles. 'Course, we're pretty certain this fine piece of engineering sounds pretty impressive in its own right, as it utilizes dual 12-inch subwoofers and aluminum tweeters / midrange drivers to crank out the jams. Reportedly, each 154-pound, 5.58-foot tower can handle frequencies from 23Hz to 44kHz and a staggering 800-watts of power, but alas, it'll remain a pipe dream unless you've got $54,000

Nikon D80 - The Best dSLR of The New Year

2007-12-22T23:06:00.000+05:30

The Nikon D80 has excellent color rendition and noise levels, has a large feature set, is highly customizable and has lightning-fast performance.

The camera body is technically slightly smaller in all dimensions compared to those of the D70s, but current owners will find the design very similar. Most of the buttons are the same and in the same places, and there are dedicated buttons for many commonly used functions.

Nikon's menu system is straightforward and, for the most part, intuitive. An option in the setup menu lets you hide some of the menu items by either selecting Nikon's preshortened Simple menu, which displays only what Nikon thinks are the most commonly changed menu items, or My Menu, which lets you choose which items the camera displays in each of the playback, shooting, custom setting, and retouch menus.

Performance was among the fastest we've seen so far. Image quality from the Nikon D80 is quite impressive. Colors were accurate and neutral and the camera's meter did an excellent job of reading the scene and providing an accurate exposure.

With the D80, Nikon has proven that it is very much still pushing ahead strongly. With 10.2 megapixels, lightning-fast performance, high-quality images with very low noise, and a heaping pile of convenience features, Nikon's D80 will not disappoint.

Specifications:

* Product Type : Digital camera - SLR
* Weight: 20.6 oz
* Resolution: 10.2 megapixels
* Sensor resolution: 10.2 megapixels
* Optical Sensor Type: CCD
* Effective Sensor Resolution: 10,200,000 pixels
* Total Pixels: 10,750,000 pixels
* Light Sensitivity: ISO 100-1600
* Shooting Programs: Close-up, Landscape, Sports mode, Portrait mode, Night portrait, Night landscape
* Max Shutter Speed: 1/4000 sec
* Min Shutter Speed: 30 sec
* Exposure Metering: Spot, 3D color matrix, Center-weighted
* Exposure Modes: Bulb, Manual, Program, Automatic, Shutter-priority, Aperture-priority, I-TTL program flash
* Still Image Format: JPEG, NEF (RAW), RAW + JPEG
* Continuous Shooting Speed: 3 frames per second
* Image Storage: JPEG, RAW 3872 x 2592, 2896 x 1944, 1936 x 1296
* Supported Flash Memory: MultiMediaCard, SD Memory Card
* Lens Type: Autofocus
* Lens System Mounting: Nikon F
* Flash Type: Pop-up flash
* Flash Modes: Auto mode, Fill-in mode, Slow synchro, Flash OFF mode, Red-eye reduction
* Red Eye Reduction: Yes
* Display Type: LCD display - TFT active matrix - 2.5 in - Color
* Connector Type: 1 x Composite video output, 1 x USB, 1 x Remote control, 1 x DC power input
* Cables Included: Video cable, USB cable
* Power Device: Battery charger - External

Acer kicks out Extensa 4620 laptops it's Cheap

2007-12-22T11:31:00.000+05:30

Acer may be marketing its Extensa lineup to small business owners, but there's nothing that says bargain hunters can get in on one, too. The 14.1-inch Extensa 4620 comes loaded with Windows XP Professional (sorry, Vista aficionados), 1GB of RAM, a 120GB hard drive, dual-layer DVD burner, 802.11a/b/g WiFi, gigabit Ethernet, a 56k modem, GMA 3100 graphics chipset and a six-cell Li-ion good for around two hours. The first of the two 4620 iterations (that'd be the 6294, break out the pencils!) sports an Intel Core 2 Duo T5450 CPU, while the 4620-4054 rocks a T2310. According to Acer, both of the lappies are available now throughout North America for $799 and $699.

JVC's GD-D850 camcorder with man-sized 35x zoom

2007-12-20T17:58:00.000+05:30

The budget GD-D850 DV camcorder from JVC. This "Baby Movie" cam features a 2.7-inch LCD with auto-adjusting brightness, 16:9 or 4:3 NTSC recordings, and the ability to capture your little Poopie Puddles in as little as 1-lux of light without the eerie, green glow of a spoiled debutante. It also features a 35x optical zoom for peeping things you probably shouldn't. Expected to hit Japanese retail priced at ¥45,000 (about $397) in January -- then the US quickly thereafter we presume.

BenQ's DC-X835 sneaky 8 megapixel anti shaker

2007-12-17T14:39:00.000+05:30

BenQ is back with another digital snapper ready for action during the holidays. At least we think so -- no price or availability were announced. Nevertheless, the DC-X835 is an 8 megapixel version of their DC-X735 slimster. As such, you're looking at a 3x smc Pentax optical zoom, 2.5-inch LCD, and a "unique" Super Shake Free mode. So unique they can't tell us whether it's optical, mechanical, digital, or what. VGA video in MPEG-4 at 30fps in a 12.5~14.7-mm thin take anywhere camera with SDHC storage closes things out.

Sony Ericsson W910i

2007-12-15T12:25:00.000+05:30

Sony Ericsson recently launched its latest slider phone in the Walkman series, the W910i, for Rs 19,000 in two colours - red and black. It features a 2.36-inch screen with 256k colours and a resolution of 320x240 pixels. The device comes with 40MB of built-in memory, and can be expanded with the packaged 2GB Memory Stick Micro card. Equipped with a 2-megapixel camera, the phone boasts of an auto-rotating display, which adjusts your display’s orientation according to how you hold the phone. Also, it has the proprietary Shake Control technology, which lets the user control his media player by flicking the W910i one way or the other, and also play games. Another feature, SenseMe, groups songs according to their tempo, creating custom playlists for different moods. The 3G phone boasts of Bluetooth, A2DP, FM Radio and a talk time of up to nine hours.

Nokia's N-Gage hits the N81

2007-12-14T21:55:00.000+05:30

N81 or N81 8GB user, since Nokia's got some pre-release versions of full N-Gage titles just for you as of next week. Nokia's hoping for some feedback with this "N-Gage First Access" setup, since the full service isn't quite ready to go yet. Of course, the N81 has game demos on it out of the box, but this time it'll have "exclusive access to the pre-release version of the N-Gage application and one or more N-Gage games!" They're certainly taking their own sweet time getting the relaunch of N-Gage ready, but given the failure of its first two iterations, perhaps we should be grateful Nokia's waiting to get it right this time.

Buffalo introduces 32GB SHD-U32GS USB flash drive

2007-12-13T20:56:00.000+05:30

there's a couple of 32GB flash drives out there to be found if you look hard enough, but Buffalo reckons one more alternative won't hurt a thing. The capacious SHD-U32GS features USB 2.0 connectivity along with the company's heralded Turbo USB technology, which mysteriously promises up to 16-percent faster transfers than similar drives. Additionally, the unit weighs in at just 20 grams and measures 19- x 14- x 91-millimeters in size, and it can be yours in a matter of days for around ¥33,768 ($302)

Enermax Caesar metal-clad Keyboard

2007-12-11T15:46:00.000+05:30

We see a diamond-cut solid brushed aluminum keyboard (complete with steel mesh grill), but Enermax's hotshot new Caesar keyboard definitely made us sit up and take notice. Successor to the Crystal aluminum keyboard, weighing in at 3.2 friggin mounds and blocking off 20.5 x 8.46 x 1.1-inches (521 x 215 x 28mm) of desk space, this mound of metal also has a couple of USB 2.0 ports, a built-in audio device (what for we're not yet entirely sure), five media and five Vista buttons, and scissor-mounted keys. It's a surprisingly low $75 per, but we'll be waiting pit it against the Optimus Maximus in the keyboard Thunderdome.

LG Voyager VX10000 Best LG Multimedia Cell Phone

2007-12-10T23:48:00.000+05:30

The LG Voyager VX10000 has a cutting-edge design with a brilliant touch screen and a spacious keyboard. It offers a vibrant features set that includes EV-DO support, V Cast Mobile TV Bluetooth, a top-notch Web browser, and an integrated GPS application. Its call quality was excellent.

On the other hand, The LG Voyager VX10000's camera lacks such extra options as a flash and Wi-Fi. The touch screen can be clunky at times, and the streaming video quality and EV-DO connection speed were uneven.

As a whole, the Voyager's sleek design, vibrant feature set and excellent performance make it the best LG messaging and multimedia phone by far.

Phone Highlights:

* Cellular technology: CDMA2000 1X
* Band / mode: CDMA 800/1900
* Wireless Interface: Bluetooth (A2DP)
* Color: Black
* Additional Features: QWERTY keyboard layout, Built-in stereo speakers
* Camera highlights: 2 megapixels
* Display Type: LCD display
* Phone style: Folder type phone

Epson Stylus CX8300

2007-12-10T13:54:00.000+05:30

Epson’s two-tone black Stylus CX8300 is the company’s latest offering in the ‘all-in-one’ category of printing, scanning and copying. The device is equipped with a tiltable 2.5-inch LCD screen to directly view and edit images from memory cards or digital cameras, without the need for a PC.

The gadget boasts of a printing speed of 32 pages per minute – for both black and colour documents – at resolutions of up to 5760dpi (dots per inch), and is compatible with 4R printing. It can scan at resolutions of up to 1200dpi, with a copy speed of 30 copies per minute.

Packaged with cartridges and a software suite, the device retails at Rs 8,299 and $205.

Visit : Epson

CradlePoint reveals PHS300 portable hotspot

2007-12-09T23:26:00.000+05:30

CradlePoint has upped the ante with the even more portable PHS300. This bugger enables a selection of handsets and USB cellular modems to create a "personal WiFi hotspot," and unlike its sibling, this one sports a built-in Li-ion to keep the connection alive (for a few hours, anyway) where there's no AC outlet in sight. Furthermore, you'll find WEP / WPA security features, an integrated firewall and the ability to charge up your phone via USB if necessary. Sound like just the thing you need? If so, you can drop your pre-order in now for $179.99 and patiently await the December 20th ship date.

Astro's slick A40 gaming audio headset

2007-12-09T01:17:00.000+05:30

A40 gaming headphone system from Astro is no exception. Sold as a complete kit with a headset and matching mixer, the $249 package lets you mix 5.1 game audio and communications audio independently to your liking, all without waking up your roommates. The daisy-chainable Dolby Digital processor / mixer also enables some other interesting features, like private comm channels for in-person Xbox 360 teams, and outboard surround processing from a PC. The headset itself features an adjustable boom mic and interchangable faceplates. Each is also available separately: the A40 headset is $199, while the mixer is $129, and it's all available on the 17th.

Sony VAIO LM notebook

2007-12-08T11:44:00.000+05:30

Sony’s VAIO LM notebook features a wall-mountable 19-inch LCD screen, which can be used by a wireless keyboard, mouse or remote control.

Powered by a 2Ghz Intel Core2 Duo processor, the notebook is equipped with 2GB DDR2 RAM, 250GB HDD, an NVidia GeForce 8400M GT graphics card, 8x DVD burner, an inbuilt TV tuner, 1.3-megapixel Web cam, a 2.1 speaker system, five USB ports, WLAN and comes with a custom suite of software designed for a better multimedia experience. More details about the device, retailing at Rs 1,09,900 and $2747.

Visit : Sony

Delkin's "world's fastest" 16GB UDMA CF Pro card

2007-12-07T19:22:00.000+05:30

The "world's fastest" 16GB UDMA CompactFlash PRO card from Delkin. Best suited for use in your UDMA capable Canon 1Ds Mark III or D300 and D3x from Nikon, the $400 CF Pro card busts a 305x read/write speed (45MB/sec sustained). For those keeping track, that's a non-noticeable bump from the previous 300x record -- but so it goes in the diffident world of the product marketeer. The cards work with non-UDMA shooters too, and make for lickity-quick RAW image transfers to your PC when using UDMA-capable card readers. Available now, as in today.

Cameraphone-friendly Bluetooth adapter

2007-12-05T23:44:00.000+05:30

Cameraphone and onto your PC, Belkin and Kodak seem to think they've got a better way of doing things, with the pair now rolling out a new Bluetooth adapter / software combo that promises to make things even easier. The key to that, it seems, is Kodak's Picture Upload Technology software, which will apparently automatically pull images off your phone whenever you walk within range of the adapter. Unfortunately, it seems that only XP or Vista users will be able to take advantage of the software, but if that's not a deal-breaker for you, you should be able to get your hands on the bundle now for $50.

Nokia's eco-friendly 3110

2007-12-05T01:18:00.000+05:30

3110 Evolve candybar from Nokia is big on features. Not features of the gizmo sort, though quite the contrary, actually -- rather, features of the "Mother Nature will thank you" sort. As its name suggests, the phone appears to be an evolved version of the rather plain 3110 classic, a phone that features a 1.3 megapixel cam, FM radio, and a tri-band GSM radio. Certainly nothing to write home about there, but the Evolve's claim to fame is that it's rocking "bio-covers" made with over 50 percent renewable materials and comes in a box made of 60 percent recycled stuff. On the technical side, the Evolve's charger is Nokia's most efficient ever, delivering juice at a full 94 percent below Energy Star specifications. Looks like the Greenpeace love is destined to continue, eh? No word on pricing or availability for the 3110 Evolve.

Vertu Ascent Ti

2007-12-04T21:00:00.000+05:30

Vertu, the makers of premium luxury handsets, recently launched the Ascent Ti in India. The 'Ti' is indicative of its high performance titanium body, which is supported by leather, sapphire crystal and ceramic. The device is equipped with a 3-megapixel camera with auto focus shutter, and boasts of the ‘Vertu Fortress’ feature that allows for remote synchronisation of a user’s contacts and calender to a Vertu server. Also, this is the first 3G Vertu phone that works anywhere in the world. And yes, this phone is definitely not meant for those making their decision based on the price; but in case you are curious, the device retails at Rs 3,26,000 and $8150.

Visit : Vertu

32GB and 2GB Creative Zen

2007-12-02T12:44:00.000+05:30

About a 32GB Zen from Creative weren't enough for you, here's another for a lazy Saturday. This time, Crave claims to have an unspecified confirmation that a 2GB and 32GB Zen is coming, and it's coming in flash form. Would that make this the highest capacity flash PMP out there?

Optoma reveals of DLP projectors

2007-11-30T11:32:00.000+05:30

Optoma's 720p HD65 ($999) and HD71 ($1,299), which aim to please HT enthusiasts and deliver 1,600 / 2,400 lumens, respectively, and offer up HDMI 1.3, component, VGA, S-Video and composite inputs. Upping the ante is the 1080p HD803 ($2,599), which features 1,200 lumens, an 8,000:1 contrast ratio and a three-stage video processing system. Taking things down a notch, we see the EP721 ($599), EP727 ($699), EP728 ($999) and EP7155 ($999) which top out with an XGA resolution and seem to cater to educational institutions and businesses. Those needing a WXGA resolution can check out the EP1691 ($999; pictured), which weighs in at just 3.2-pounds and packs 2,500 lumens. Lastly, the port-filled EP761 ($1,299) touts an XGA resolution, 3,200 lumens, a 2,000:1 contrast ratio and DVI, VGA (2 in, 1 out), composite, S-Video, RS-232 and USB connectors.

Cowon Q5W goes on sale in US

2007-11-29T21:15:00.000+05:30

Cowon Q5W was coming to our fair shores this week, but now that it's here, we've got some fresh details that make that $549 pricetag seem downright reasonable. You're still looking at a 5-inch 800 x 400 touchscreen and Windows CE, but Cowon has really thrown down the gauntlet with codec support, including DivX, XviD, AVI, ASF, WMV9, MPEG4, OGM, Ogg, FLAC and APE -- and the browser supports Flash. There's also a "pen mode" for the interface and an optional WinCE Office Viewer that might let you actually get some work done. To top it all off, the entire UI appears to be skinnable, and Cowon says a version with GPS will also hit next month. Damn, looks like our love affair with the Archos 605 WiFi is over.

Zonbu's subscription laptops for 2008

2007-11-28T23:58:00.000+05:30

The Zonbu Mini is about to get a portable friend. Zonbu has just revealed its Everex-built Zonbu Notebook, which will be hitting the market in Q1 2008. The $279 upfront pricetag is quite a bit heftier than the $99 Mini, but the subscription fee remains the same at $14.95. Specs are quite the improvement on the Mini, with a 1.5GHz VIA C7-M processor, 60GB HDD, DVD-RW / CD-RW drive, VIA Chrome9 HC integrated graphics, WiFi and a 15.4-inch 1440 x 900 display. Zonbu claims up to three hours of battery, and of course all those "hassle-free" promises and managed Linux software of the original. In a world of $399 Eee PCs and cheaper Black Friday bargains, a $279 laptop with a hefty subscription fee might not seem like such a steal, but it's not hard to see the appeal for a first-time PC buyer, and it certainly bests the Mini. The best news is that if you're willing to put up with some beta software, Zonbu is selling the Notebook as of today for those risk-taking luddites out there.

Blackberry Pearl 8120

2007-11-27T15:14:00.000+05:30

Business travellers looking for a new addiction might want to take a look at the Blackberry Pearl 8120 that was recently launched by both, Airtel and Hutch. Priced at Rs 24,990, the quad-band phone (GSM/GPRS/EDGE) comes with a 2-megapixel digital camera (that supports video capture); Wi-Fi connectivity; and an externally accessible microSD/SDHC memory slot. The USB-compatible 8120 also supports Bluetooth stereo, and comes with a 3.5 mm stereo headset jack, so music lovers can plug in their preferred headphones or speakers. And of course, it comes complete with Blackberry’s suite of business software – including email-support, organiser, calendar, etc. For more information on this gadget that is available in a stylish titanium finish.

Visit : Blackberry

The "999,999,999 in 1 Super Video Game"

2007-11-25T10:24:00.000+05:30

If this thing is real, but if it is you can probably expect to pick one up from nondescript street markets across China. With a claim to fame of one less than a billion games included, the "999999999 in 1 Super Game" should give the "big three" consoles a run for their money.

Limited Edition Halo 3 wireless controller

2007-11-23T20:33:00.000+05:30

This time we're got a Xbox 360 Limited Edition Halo 3 wireless controller (Brute edition with Todd McFarlane collectible figure). Ready? Here's the deal.

We'll put up a gadget on the site, and you can only enter it until the next gadget lands (usually within a couple of hours). If you miss your shot, sorry, we're moving on to the next gadget.

BenQ T201

2007-11-23T15:28:00.000+05:30

BenQ recently unveiled their new dual-screen LCD monitor, the T201Wa. The device boasts of a widescreen 20-inch LCD display with a native resolution of 1680x1050-pixels. It also has a 1000:1 contrast ratio, along with a 5-millisecond response time. The dual-screen display allows a user to split his viewing mode to, for example, browse the Internet on the left, while watching a movie on the right. In content such as movies, video games, etc, it claims to maintain the original aspect ratio, without any cropping or compression. For more on the gadget, which costs Rs 11,900 and $300.

Visit : BenQ

Ricoh's new Caplio RR770 sports 3-inch LCD Camera

2007-11-22T22:23:00.000+05:30

Ricoh has just introduced the new Caplio RR770, a model barely distinguishable from the now two-generations-old RR730. Just as the move from the 730 to the RR750 brought with it little more than a minor resolution bump, the 7.16 megapixel RR770 improves upon its predecessor by simply upgrading the LCD to a 3-incher -- but retaining the ho hum 3x optical zoom and limited scene selections of Caplios past. Price and release are currently shrouded in mystery, but don't expect to spend much more than $250 on this unremarkable shooter.

Samsung's BlackJack II launches on Friday for $150

2007-11-22T19:23:00.001+05:30

Black Friday, and you've been craving Samsung's forthcoming BlackJack II, we've got yet another locale that you'll need to show yourself at. CNET has it that Sammie's SGH-i617 will be landing on AT&T tomorrow, and just in case you still weren't connecting the (dark) dots, it'll initially be available only in black. Reportedly, the red edition is slated to surface around December 12th, and both will demand $149.99 and your name on a two-year contract. Don't worry about showing up early, though -- the chances of this thing selling out before noon tomorrow (or ever, to be frank) are slim to none.

Nokia N95 Review

2007-11-22T13:50:00.000+05:30

"The Nokia N95 brings a range of multimedia ingredients together, such as a fantastic display, outstanding photo and video capability and high-speed connectivity, making it the ultimate multimedia computer," said Anssi Vanjoki, Executive Vice President, Multimedia, Nokia. "This single device - which fits easily in your pocket - can replace stand-alone devices that you no longer need, whether it's your music player, your digital camera, PDA or navigation device. Most importantly, the Nokia N95 is with you and connected when you want to use it."

The innovative 2-way slide concept makes it easy to switch between different modes, going from reading maps to watching a video with a simple slide. A numeric keypad slides out from one end of the device while dedicated media keys slide out from the opposite direction, converting the display into full screen landscape mode. With powerful 3D graphics, the Nokia N95 has a stunning user interface that makes it intuitive to find the features and services you want.With its integrated GPS at your fingertips, finding your way just got easier. The Maps application includes maps for more than 100 countries, enabling users to explore the world, find specific routes or locate services such as restaurants and hotels and covering more than 15 million points of interest. You can also purchase additional features, such as city guides and voice guided navigation.

The Nokia N95 also offers a first class entertainment experience with the combination of a large 2.6" QVGA 16 million color display, impressive 3D graphics, built-in stereo speakers offering a 3D stereo effect, standard 3.5 mm audio jack, support for compatible microSD cards and mini USB for convenient data transfer. Browsing the internet on the Nokia N95 is a pleasure using the Nokia Web Browser with Mini Map, with new features such as a floating toolbar, password manager and auto complete, as well as web feeds with support for Atom and auto update.

The Nokia N95 is based on the world's leading S60 software on Symbian OS, enabling you to personalize your device from a wide choice of compatible applications that can be downloaded to the Nokia N95, including games, navigation, entertainment, productivity and creativity. The Nokia N95 comes out of the box ready to create, connect, consume and interact with some of the internet's most popular services. Use Yahoo! Search to search for and find most anything on the web, scroll though a book with Amazon's MobiPocket Reader or snap a photo and send it directly to your Flickr site.

The Nokia N95 is expected to start shipping in volumes during the first quarter of 2007 at an estimated unsubsidized retail price of 550 euros.General : Network : HSDPA/GSM 850/900/1800/1900

Size : Dimesions : 99x53x21m, 90cc
Weight : 120g

Display : Type : TFT, 16M colors
Size : 240x320 pixels, 40x53 mm

Ringtones : Type : Polyphonic (64 channels), Monophonic, True Tones, Mp3
Customize : Download
Vibration : Yes

Memory : Phonebook : Practically Unlimited Field, Photocall
Callrecords : Detailed Max 30 Days

Data : GPRS : Class 10 (4+1/3+2 slots), 32 - 48 kbps
HSCSD : Yes
EDGE : Class 32, 296 kbps; DTM Class 11, 177 kbps
3G : HSDPA
WLAN : i-Fi 802.11 b/g, UPnP technology
Bluetooth : Yes, v2.0 with A2DP
Infrared port : Yes
USB : Yes, v2.0 miniUSB

Features : OS : Symbian OS 9.2, S60 rel. 3.1
Messaging : SMS, MMS, Email, Instant Messaging
Browser : WAP 2.0/xHTML, HTML
Games : Downloadable, order now
Colors : Silver
Camera : 5 MP, 2592 x 1944 pixels, Carl Zeiss optics, autofocus, video(VGA 30fps), flash; secondary CIF videocall camera

Built-in GPS receiver
A-GPS function
Installed Maps application covering over 100 countries
Dual slide design
Java MIDP 2.0
MP3/AAC/AAC+/eAAC+/WMA player
3.5 mm audio output jack
TV out
Stereo FM Radio
Organiser
Office document viewer
T9
Push to Talk
Voice dial/memo
Built-in handsfree

Battery : Standard battery, Li-Ion 950 mAh (BL-5F)
Stand by : Up to 220 h
Talktime : Up to 6 h 30 min

Axiom Audio reveals real-wood PC Speakers

2007-11-21T19:35:00.000+05:30

Axiom Audio's Audiobyte is actually the first luxury speaker system made for the PC, but it's pretty swank, regardless. The setup consists of a pair of ultra-compact speakers, a dedicated stereo amplifier and an optional (but totally necessary) subwoofer. Additionally, the firm offers 'em up in seven different finishes including lacquered, real-wood Burled Walnut, and the standalone amplifier pushes some 55-watts to each 6.5- x 5.5- x 4-inch speaker. The pair houses a 1-inch titanium dome tweeter and a 3-inch aluminum cone woofer, and the optional Audiobyte subbie packs an isobarically-loaded 6.5-inch driver, but is unfortunately passive in nature. Interestingly, the system's amplifier features an integrated USB plug, so DAPs can be plugged in directly for audio playback sans a running PC. As for pricing, the 2.0 setup will run you between $349 and $559 depending on finish, and the optional subwoofer will tack on another $179.

Fujitsu's LifeBook S6510 gets Review

2007-11-20T22:21:00.000+05:30

Fujitsu's LifeBook S6510,As expected, reviewers marveled at the thinness of the 14.1-inch lappie, and even with the optical drive loaded in, they were delighted to find that it only weighed four pounds. Additionally, it was stated that the S6510 was surprisingly rigid, and while the LCD didn't exactly live up to the standards Fujitsu has set for itself, it was far from abysmal. Furthermore, the unit performed admirably in a plethora of tests, the keyboard was a joy to use and the battery life was right on par. Notably, the unit did emit quite a bit of heat, but all in all, this LifeBook should certainly fit the bill if you're looking for a business laptop that won't add any undue strain on your back.

Samsung's VP-HMX10A HD Camcorder

2007-11-20T17:57:00.000+05:30

Samsung's VP-HMX10A camcorder is now on sale. No, not in North America or Europe, but S.Korea-only at the moment.(about $870) nabs this 720p recorder with 2.7-inch LCD and 4GB of internal flash storage for all your H.264 recordings (SD expansion for more) in a 310-gram barrel. With any luck these will go global on the quick.

Logitech VX Nano Cordless Laser mouse

2007-11-20T11:31:00.000+05:30

Logitech recently unveiled the VX Nano Cordless Laser mouse in India. The device boasts of the world’s tiniest USB receiver for mice - just 8mm in length. Also, the mouse’s base has a small compartment to store the nano-receiver. Apart from the precision scroll wheel, the mouse features five customisable buttons. The gadget, which runs on AAA batteries, retails for Rs 4,995 and $125

Visit : Logitech

Gigabyte M704 UMPC

2007-11-19T21:33:00.000+05:30

Gigabyte's new M704 looks awfully familiar to the U60, but we'll give the nod to this bugger in the style department. Freshened up with a sleeker, sexier motif, the firm's latest UMPC packs a 1.2GHz VIA Esther ULV C7 processor, a VX-700 chipset, seven-inch 1,024 x 600 LED-backlit touchscreen, your choice of 40GB / 60GB hard drives, a multicard reader, twin USB 2.0 ports and a VGA output. On top of all that, you'll also find 802.11b/g WiFi, a Li-ion battery good for around three hours, a slide out QWERTY keyboard and a 1.3-megapixel CMOS camera. As expected, Gigabyte hasn't bothered to tell us when or where we'll find this machine on sale, and yeah, the price is still a mystery.

Sanyo's Xacti VPC-HD1000 camcorder gets Review

2007-11-18T15:32:00.000+05:30

Sanyo's line of Xacti camcorders have traditionally looked mighty fine on paper, but for one reason or another, expectations haven't exactly been met on the previous iterations. The firm's latest pistol-grip device yet again looked superb at a glance, but TrustedReviews found that the VPC-HD1000 still wasn't able to live up to its claims. On the upside, reviewers found the design to be "much improved," and the Full HD recording abilities were drooled over as well. Still, the crew couldn't help but be disappointed in the paltry four-megapixel CMOS sensor, and while it did perform "better than its predecessors" as a camcorder, the optical zoom was tagged as "slow," colors seemed slightly oversaturated and you'll still need "plenty of light" in order to get halfway decent results. Furthermore, it was noted that quick changes in scenery caused noticeable pixilation, and shooting in low-light introduced "a lot" of grain. Overall, the HD1000 wasn't totally slammed nor lifted up on a pedestal, but we'd probably hold off on this unless you're cool with a "jack of two trades, but master of neither.

Transcend joins the 16GB SDHC Card

2007-11-18T14:21:00.001+05:30

The "world's first" 16GB SDHC card in the Class 6 family, and now Transcend is hitting us all up with a very viable alternative. The card guarantees a minimum write speed of 6MB/second, includes ECC to automatically detect and fix errors and sports a lifetime warranty, too. Not a lot to say beyond that -- especially considering the glaring lack of a price or ship date but we doubt you'll be waiting too much longer before seeing this on store shelves.

Dell XPS Review

2007-11-17T23:32:00.000+05:30

Dell XPS One, the machine which we originally revealed on these here pages. The unit they got their hands on was the top-end $2,399 model -- what, you think Dell would risk lumping 'em with the budget range? -- and the overall impression was very good if you limit yourself to the praise of the PC's numerous features. A built-in HDTV tuner with remote, Blu-ray, and 802.11n round out the 2.33GHz Core 2 Duo, 2GB of RAM, and 500GB HDD. The reviewer also thought that the design was a strong aspect of the XPS One, matching the iMac for aesthetics and minimalism. From there it's downhill: the Radeon 2400 HD graphics card is crap for gaming, and the unit as a whole isn't price competitive thanks to the 20-inch 1680x1050 screen.