Sub300.com yesterday announced its Linux-based Ultralite Laptop, which costs only $799.99 and weighs just 2.9 lbs. Update: Yes, it's the world's lightest, but the world's cheapest is available only at Walmart.
Everybody's jumping on the iPod bandwagon -- even Playboy. The company is offering PG-13 images designed specifically for downloading to an iPod Photo. (Editor's note: I've done thorough research and testing on this download and can verify that it's less "hardcore" than what you might see on TV.)
Here comes the long-rumored Apple iPod cell phone (to be manufactured by Motorola and made available within six months). The executive's comment should wreck sales of both iPods and cell phones for the first half of 2005...
New Mobile Phone Headsets Use Bone Conduction For Microphone
Researchers at Japan's Micro M's Inc. have invented mobile phone earphones that pick up the speaker's voice by detecting vibrations in the inner ear. The headphones cut out nearly all background noise, and have a switch to toggle between speaking and talking modes. They go on sale tomorrow for $150.
A new jacket design by Corpo Nove -- the people who brought you a liquid-cooled jacket a couple years ago -- now have a self-heating jacket you control via PC. The control takes place using a special application that comes on a CD. If anyone hears about availability and pricing, gimme a shout.
Rise of the Machines: ASIMO Robot Upgraded. Now It Can Run
Honda's human-like ASIMO robot, which is the most human-like robot in its ability to walk around, shake hands and interact with people, has been upgraded with the ability to run, jump and interact more smoothly with humans. Soon, Honda's secret plan for world domination will be complete as they mass produce an army of robots to rise up and take over the world. Or it's just a really cool R&D project.
The Yantai Qinglu Automation Company Ltd., sells briefcases that can deliver a shocking current of electricity when somebody tries to steal it. If somebody jacks your briefcase, you can use the handy remote control to unleash the electricity around the entire case, along with an alarm. (props to Gizmodo)
The poetically named Xi'an Uni-Creation Trade and Technology Co., Ltd., of China has made this USB vibrating eye massager, apparently inspired by Curly Howard. (props to Engadget)
Researchers Invent Walking Stick For The Blind Made Of Light
University of California at Santa Cruz researchers are working on a computerized white cane replacement for the blind. By combining a laser beam, digital camera, special sensors and computerized intelligence, they're able to quickly scan the immediate environment, and zap relevant information about it back to the user in the form of sounds or coded vibrations.
