Switched http://www.switched.com Switched http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.switched.com/media/feedlogo.gif Switched http://www.switched.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Gift Guide: Boynq Abibi]]>http://www.switched.com/2007/12/23/gift-guide-boynq-abibi/http://www.switched.com/2007/12/23/gift-guide-boynq-abibi/http://www.switched.com/2007/12/23/gift-guide-boynq-abibi/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Boynq Alibi (Style maven, $100 and under)

Want to get your college-bound, studying-abroad, jet-setting son or daughter to actually video-chat with you? Try getting them a webcam -- particularly one that looks as fresh as Boynq's Alibi. Though its primary function is video, the unit doubles as a speaker as well: While it's only able to crank out five watts, it sounds better than your laptop's internal speakers. The camera is able to angle itself 25 degrees left and right, and and it even rotates 300 degrees, allowing you to record video of most of a room without having to move the body of the webcam itself. Aside from its look, the design is full of nice touches: Rather than a volume knob, the Alibi has a tall ring around its body, which you slide to adjust volume. Oh, and coolest of all? The camera head pops up when in use, and hibernates into its plastic body when idle. Comes in four purdy colors.

Price: $59.99

From Boynq

SwitchedGift Guide: Boynq Abibi originally appeared on Switched on Sun, 23 Dec 2007 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>HolidashHoliday Gift GuideHolidayGiftGuideSun, 23 Dec 2007 14:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Palm Centro Mixes Business with a Little Pleasure]]>http://www.switched.com/2007/12/21/palm-centro-mixes-business-with-a-little-pleasure/http://www.switched.com/2007/12/21/palm-centro-mixes-business-with-a-little-pleasure/http://www.switched.com/2007/12/21/palm-centro-mixes-business-with-a-little-pleasure/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,



Once upon a time, you were a nobody if you didn't have a Palm-powered PDA holstered beneath your power suit. With BlackBerrys and iPhones getting all the glory, can Palm's new Centro compete? Josh Fruhlinger reports.

SwitchedPalm Centro Mixes Business with a Little Pleasure originally appeared on Switched on Fri, 21 Dec 2007 09:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsHolidashHoliday Gift GuideHolidayGiftGuideiphone killersiphone-killersIphoneKillersPalmPalm CentroPalmCentrosmart phonesSmartPhonestopFri, 21 Dec 2007 09:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Holiday Gadget Deals For You, From East to West]]>http://www.switched.com/2007/12/19/holiday-gadget-deals-for-you-from-east-to-west/http://www.switched.com/2007/12/19/holiday-gadget-deals-for-you-from-east-to-west/http://www.switched.com/2007/12/19/holiday-gadget-deals-for-you-from-east-to-west/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

iRobot Roomba 400


Do we send too many discounts and deals your way? Hardly. In gift-giving, it is indeed the thought that counts but that doesn't mean you should also count away all your dollars when we can easily help you save a few. Something you may not know is you can often find great deals at so-called regional electronics chains instead of only relying on the big nationals or Amazon.com. And the good news is that all of these retailers let you get the same deals online and have merchandise shipped wherever you want. Here are three that could work for you.

Abt Electronics, a stalwart of the Windy City and one of the biggest consumer electronics retailers in the country that still happens to be family owned, is offering a Panasonic 32-inch high definition LCD TV for only $698 and free shipping. This normally goes for about $200 more.

Go West to Frys.com, which has the iRobot Roomba 400 for only $89.99 while it lists for $119 elsewhere. This little automatic vacuum cleaner seems smarter than some small dogs - or that kid you knew in school who ate the paint chips.

Finally, look to New York's B & H Photo and Video for a decent deal on the Samsung BD-P1400 Blu-ray Disc player. They're listing it for $289.95 while it often goes for about $100 more.

Happy shopping folks! Let us know how it goes.

SwitchedHoliday Gadget Deals For You, From East to West originally appeared on Switched on Wed, 19 Dec 2007 13:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>HolidashHoliday Gift GuideHolidayGiftGuideSamsung Panasonic irobot roomba blu-ray lcd abt frys bhphoto regSamsungPanasonicIrobotRoombaBlu-rayLcdAbtFrysBhphotoRegionalHoliWed, 19 Dec 2007 13:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Daily Deals for Last-Minute Gadget Gifts]]>http://www.switched.com/2007/12/18/daily-deals-for-last-minute-gadget-gifts/http://www.switched.com/2007/12/18/daily-deals-for-last-minute-gadget-gifts/http://www.switched.com/2007/12/18/daily-deals-for-last-minute-gadget-gifts/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Do we have a deal or three for you!

This week it was easy to find a few good prices on product the big box electronics retailers are trying to move off their Web sites. Some small items, some big. All still in time for you to be the Santa of everyone's dreams. (We couldn't find a good deal on coal, so we hope there are no naughty boys or girls on your lists.)

Find your way to BestBuy.com for a deal on an HP M632 Photosmart 7.2 megapixel digital still camera. It's only $79, which is a decent price. It qualifies for free shipping but in-store pick-up may suit you better just to be sure it's under the tree in time.

Amazon.com has the 8 gigabyte iPod Touch waiting for you at $369 and its free super-saver shipping should still get the package to you by Friday if you order right away. The Touch is the iPod that looks like the iPhone. No, it's not a phone but the display is cool enough to make you cool enough, which is part of the allure, right?

And while we're on the topic of iPhones and the iPod Touch, J&R Computer World has a little deal going on some "open box" protective screens for these devices. We know, we know -- "open box" makes you nervous but when it comes to products with no moving parts or plugs, a good deal is a good deal. Take a look.

Only one week to go before the big day. Snap to it! You don't want to disappoint.

SwitchedDaily Deals for Last-Minute Gadget Gifts originally appeared on Switched on Tue, 18 Dec 2007 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>HolidashHoliday Gift GuideHolidayGiftGuideTue, 18 Dec 2007 19:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Gift Pick: Burton Sleeper Hoodie Holds Gadgets and More]]>http://www.switched.com/2007/12/17/gift-pick-burton-sleeper-hoodie-holds-gadgets-and-more/http://www.switched.com/2007/12/17/gift-pick-burton-sleeper-hoodie-holds-gadgets-and-more/http://www.switched.com/2007/12/17/gift-pick-burton-sleeper-hoodie-holds-gadgets-and-more/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,





HYPE CHECK: BURTON SLEEPER HOODIE
.

What it is: Burton's Sleeper Hoodie is designed for the busy air traveler, but should be a big hit with everyone from bands who spend weeks at a time tour buses, to those of us who like to catch a nap on the bus on our way to work. Inside the neck rests an inflatable neck pillow; blow it up, and you've got immediate, built-in head support. (Much better than resting your head on the corner between the seat and the window, much less the person next to you.) It's also got hidden compartments for your MP3 player (lower left), passport (inner left), and even your earplugs (it comes with a pair). It even has thumb holes in the sleeve cuffs for those with cold hands, and zippers under the armpits (with mesh in between) for when you get all hot and bothered (like during the spaghetti scene of 'Lady and the Tramp'). There's more: a light shield pulls down to block out the glare of the sun-like reading lights your neighbor refuses to turn off (if not fully block out those fluorescents lining the cabin wall), and a headphone port for wiring your music inside the shirt. It feels like something to add to your essential travel arsenal -- and since it looks and feels like a regular hoodie when disengaged, you can even where it when you get wherever it is you're going. As long as it's not Tahiti.

Why it's different: Most sweatshirts don't do anything other than zip up. This one does about everything except cook you breakfast.

What it costs: $100

What we like: For those that travel long distances, this thing is a lifesaver. It's incredibly versatile and feature-packed, and this sort of combination of technology and fashion is long overdue. The ability to adjust your temperature actually works in practice -- finally avoid sweaty armpits during boarding, and the thumb holes really do keep your palms warm, no matter how high they decide to crank the AC. The whole thing just feels very well thought-out and designed.


What we don't like: Rather than the wrap-around style neck pillow that they sell in airports, the inflatable pillow in the neck is more of a log-shaped affair. It still works - even without anything to lean against, you can just rest your head on either of your shoulders - but the full wrap-around action would have been even better. Also, while the design is great if you're into big graphics (we love the line-art airplane), it's perhaps not the most subtle thing in the world - this thing might not fly with the over-50 business set (pun intended).

Does it live up to the hype? Yes. We love it. It's an incredibly useful piece of gear for those of us that take long trips (or perhaps lots of short ones, requiring sporadic naps), and feels like it will last many, many hours of airtime. It's a heavy-duty sweatshirt, and for $100, you can't really argue with the comfort and peace of mind it give you - even when sandwiched between two fatsos (loudly eating sandwiches) on your flight from LA to London.


Gallery: Burton Sleeper Hoodie -- Up Close




Related Links:

Switched Reviews the Gibson Robotic Guitar
Is the Amazon Kindle Really the iPod of Books
Best Headphones for the Gym

SwitchedGift Pick: Burton Sleeper Hoodie Holds Gadgets and More originally appeared on Switched on Mon, 17 Dec 2007 18:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>High-Tech ClothingHigh-techClothingHolidashHoliday Gift GuideHolidayGiftGuideMon, 17 Dec 2007 18:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Top Tech Toys for Tots]]>http://www.switched.com/2007/12/17/top-tech-toys-for-tots-10/http://www.switched.com/2007/12/17/top-tech-toys-for-tots-10/http://www.switched.com/2007/12/17/top-tech-toys-for-tots-10/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Made for Me MP3 Music Player

Made for Me MP3 Music Player

Get them into technology early with the Made for Me MP3 Music Player (Playskool, $70), a digital music player that allows you to download up to two hours of music, transfer songs from your personal collection or even record your voice (or your baby's for posterity). With 50 songs already pre-loaded and four different playlists to choose from, you can even put this thing in shuffle mode for random play. You can it to a crib with included fabric cover,but we recommend you leave it in the car for those long trips. The player comes in blue, orange and pink.

SwitchedTop Tech Toys for Tots originally appeared on Switched on Mon, 17 Dec 2007 11:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>HolidashHoliday Gift GuideHolidayGiftGuideKids TechKidsTechmp3 kids kid child Made-for-meMp3KidsKidChildMade-for-meTech Toys for TotsTechToysForTotsMon, 17 Dec 2007 11:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Top Tech Toys for Tots]]>http://www.switched.com/2007/12/17/top-tech-toys-for-tots-9/http://www.switched.com/2007/12/17/top-tech-toys-for-tots-9/http://www.switched.com/2007/12/17/top-tech-toys-for-tots-9/#commentsFiled under: ,

Squawkers McCawFurReal Friends: Squawkers McCaw

If holiday gift conversations with your kids include lots of begging for a pet, then you should check out this nice way to diffuse the situation: Squawkers McCaw, the Furreal Friends Parrot (Hasbro, $65), is a true-to-size, interactive, animatronic bird with voice recognition, programmable features and remote control toy cracker perch. He can repeat words spoken to him and even answer with pre-programmed commands, which essentially teaches Squawkers as you go along. And of course, this macaw loves to cut a rug, so play some tunes and let him rock out -- or just let him play his own signature song. It may have no heartbeat, but this bird has soul.



SwitchedTop Tech Toys for Tots originally appeared on Switched on Mon, 17 Dec 2007 11:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bird mccaw animatronicBirdMccawAnimatronicHolidashHoliday Gift GuideHolidayGiftGuideKids TechKidsTechTot TechTotTechMon, 17 Dec 2007 11:42:00 EST<![CDATA[Top Tech Toys for Tots]]>http://www.switched.com/2007/12/17/top-tech-toys-for-tots-7/http://www.switched.com/2007/12/17/top-tech-toys-for-tots-7/http://www.switched.com/2007/12/17/top-tech-toys-for-tots-7/#commentsFiled under: ,

Transformers Ultimate Bumblebee

Transformers Ultimate Bumblebee

Though Shia Laboeuf, thankfully, isn't included, the Transformer Bumblebee (Hasbro, $80) is set to take over your holiday living room. Ultra-detailed with an animated head, wings and arms, this robot can aim and even fire a missile. Then, when he's ready to roll, Bumblebee converts into Camaro concept car mode -- with nine accompanying tunes, including Devo's "Whip It." And, of course, Bumblebee has lots to express with 17 phrases in his arsenal. When he says, "Let's roll out!" he really means it. Really.


SwitchedTop Tech Toys for Tots originally appeared on Switched on Mon, 17 Dec 2007 11:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>HolidashHoliday Gift GuideHolidayGiftGuideKids TechKidsTechTech Toys for TotsTechToysForTotsTot TechTotTechMon, 17 Dec 2007 11:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Top Tech Toys for Tots]]>http://www.switched.com/2007/12/17/top-tech-toys-for-tots-5/http://www.switched.com/2007/12/17/top-tech-toys-for-tots-5/http://www.switched.com/2007/12/17/top-tech-toys-for-tots-5/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Guitar Hero III

Keep that inner rock star in the living room with Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock (Red Octane, $99.99). Using one of the four guitar-shaped controllers for Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, Wii and PlayStation 2, your pint-sized rocker will be sucked into the music of the best rock n' roll artists of our time, including The Beastie Boys and Jimi Hendrix. New features include a multiplayer battle mode, unlockable content and even authentic concert venues. The guitars are wireless and come with removable faceplates, so you can change your look depending on your tunes. The axes also have an integrated, color button design for a more authentic experience.


SwitchedTop Tech Toys for Tots originally appeared on Switched on Mon, 17 Dec 2007 11:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>xbox-360 ps3 wii ps2 game guitar kids kids child giftXbox-360Ps3WiiPs2GameGuitarKidsKidsChildGiftMon, 17 Dec 2007 11:33:00 EST<![CDATA[The Skinny on the Latest Holiday Gadget Deals]]>http://www.switched.com/2007/12/14/the-latest-skinny-on-holiday-gadget-deals/http://www.switched.com/2007/12/14/the-latest-skinny-on-holiday-gadget-deals/http://www.switched.com/2007/12/14/the-latest-skinny-on-holiday-gadget-deals/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Hi friends. In the mood for a good deal on a gift? We did a little poking around this morning to find some worthy stocking stuffers you might consider -- especially since the price tag is nice.

Amazon today is offering deals on SanDisk Sansa MP3 players, including a 68 percent off the list price for a 4 gigabyte Sansa e260, which will now only set you back $79.

eCost is wasting no time moving a small collection of JVC Everio High-Definition Camcorders. This is an excellent device that we've used personally and while a little on the bulky side compared to other consumer models the large hard drive and HD capability make for a fine experience. Normally priced at $1,700, eCost is willing to give it to you for $779. Move fast, though, not many are left.

Don't underestimate what a truly capable universal remote control can do you for you. Buy.com has a deal going on the Harmony Advanced Universal Remote, normally listed at $249 but right now going for $166.93 and you get free shipping.

We'll keep our eyes and ears open to help you out with your last minute shopping. We know you're just like us, waiting until the last possible moment...


Related Links:


SwitchedThe Skinny on the Latest Holiday Gadget Deals originally appeared on Switched on Fri, 14 Dec 2007 13:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>HolidashHoliday Gadget DealsHoliday Gift GuideHolidayGadgetDealsHolidayGiftGuideShoppingFri, 14 Dec 2007 13:12:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Four Phones Under $100 That We Love]]>http://www.switched.com/2007/12/12/video-four-phones-for-under-100/http://www.switched.com/2007/12/12/video-four-phones-for-under-100/http://www.switched.com/2007/12/12/video-four-phones-for-under-100/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


This is the story of four cell phones that have two things in common: Each costs under $100, and each doesn't suck. Josh "Kung" Fruhlinger reports.

Related Links:

SwitchedVideo: Four Phones Under $100 That We Love originally appeared on Switched on Wed, 12 Dec 2007 15:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Wed, 12 Dec 2007 15:42:00 EST<![CDATA[Slash Talks Guitar Hero III, 'Slash' (the Book), and Gadget Gifts]]>http://www.switched.com/2007/12/05/slash-talks-guitar-hero-iii-slash-the-book-and-gadget-gift/http://www.switched.com/2007/12/05/slash-talks-guitar-hero-iii-slash-the-book-and-gadget-gift/http://www.switched.com/2007/12/05/slash-talks-guitar-hero-iii-slash-the-book-and-gadget-gift/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Slash Talks 'Guitar Hero' and Technophobia

Slash is a busy guy. In fact, we're not sure he's had any down time since recording what may be the greatest debut album in the history of Rock 'n' Roll, the Guns n' Roses classic 'Appetite for Destruction.' After the disintegration of the band and the hijacking of the name by a corn-rowed Axl Rose and a band of impostors ( whose next album 'Chinese Democracy' should be out some time before Armageddon), Slash went on to form Slash's Snake Pit and play guitar on tracks for dozens of artists from Michael Jackson to Insane Clown Posse. And he just keeps adding to his repertoire. In addition to being the lead guitarist for Velvet Revolver, the top-hat-wearing axe slinger just co-authored a book (with Anthony Bozza) entitled 'Slash' and appeared as a boss character in 'Guitar Hero III.' The rock legend was kind enough to sit and talk with us a bit about the book, Guitar Hero, and of course whether he prefers PC or Mac.

Switched: So what made you decide to write a book now?

Slash: I put the book out to sort of set the record straight on a lot of the story having to do with why I quit Guns 'n' Roses, and the band reuniting, and a lot of other subjects having to do with that band. Basically that's what influenced my decision to write a book. Prior to that I had no interest in writing a book, even though people keep asking me. But after seeing all the attention that Guns 'n' Roses has garnered of late, all the misinformation that's available to people, and all of the other, you know, falsehoods that are going on about a lot of different things, I just figured probably the only way I'd be able to do myself and the story any justice is to write it myself.


'Slash' by SlashSo it was less a thing of nostalgia and more, almost cathartic?

Well, you know, cathartic in a way. I don't know how cathartic it was really, for myself, personally, but I think it'll put some people's minds at rest, especially people who are huge Guns 'n' Roses fans or who are fascinated by the phenomena that is Guns 'n' Roses.

It's coming out just on the heels of the release of 'Guitar Hero III,' which you star in. Is the timing accidental?

(Laughs) It's all accidental. I was working on the Velvet Revolver 'Libertad' record, when both these things... well, I started writing the book during the making of the record, and actually did the Guitar Hero thing a little bit prior to that. But they were all sort of done at the same time and they're all coming out at the same time.

So how did you get involved with 'Guitar Hero III?'

Activision [the game's publisher] came up with the idea to have somebody in the rock world represent the game and they chose me to be their rock legend guy, which I thought was really flattering. And I was really overwhelmed and excited about the prospect of doing it because I'm a huge fan of the game. So I met with them and we shot some ideas back and forth and we rolled with it and it came out great. I got to write some music for it, I put some guitar solos on it, and I got a caricature of myself in the game. It's way left-field for what I normally do, but at the same time it's very relevant, and I'm really honored to be on the box, so to speak.

That sort of answers our next question, which is how much involvement was there really in making the game? It sounds as though it was more than just "walk in to the studio, get some pictures taken for the model, and go home."

No, there were plenty t of hours spent outside my comfort zone to get this done properly. But, you know, it was an experience and it was fun as well.

Obviously, you've played the game, you said you enjoyed it. Did you find it tough to transition from playing the real guitar to playing Guitar Hero?

I'm not very good at it. I played it a little while ago this afternoon. And I played 'Guitar Hero 2' and I had a lot of time to sit with it and learn how to do it and I got pretty good at it until I beat the game. But I didn't beat it on expert -- I beat it on hard. And that took a lot of work. I think there's something innately awkward about being a guitar player trying to playing 'Guitar Hero.' I think you play it by ear more than you do so by sight, which is the way that normal people play it. There really is that correlation between your fingers and what you're looking at on screen, and I think for guitar players the way that you relate to it is really by ear and feel, which somehow doesn't make your fingers land at the right place at the right time.

So what are you planning on getting the wife and kids for the holidays, gadget- or tech-wise this year?

I've been so busy, and everybody on my side of the fence has been so busy, what with touring and all the other stuff that's going on right now. We haven't really gotten into Christmas. We just escaped Halloween with me traveling all over the place and what not. So we haven't really focused on Christmas yet.

Don't even bring that up, you're scaring the shit out of me.

(Laughs)

Is there any gadget that's got you excited that you really want to get your hands on?

I'm not a huge gadget guy. I just got a new BlackBerry, you know, and I'm happy with that. And I just got a new Xbox 360 not too long ago and we were looking at some new games the other day just to see what's out there. I got my new 'Guitar Hero' finally... I can't think of anything off the top of my head, outside of some recording gear that I'm really looking out for getting.

Does the aversion to technology and gadgets extend to the music? Are you a Pro Tools guy?

NO, no, I'm really simple, and I don't... I'm one of those people that if it's something you don't need, I can pretty much stay away from it. But as far as just toying around with technology for toying around's sake, I'm not like that. I'm basically all about the simplest approach possible. The fewer manuals I have to read, the better and if it ain't broke, don't fix it. So I use a lot of pretty much old gear and what not. The only thing I do need for recording is something simple that's efficient, sounds good, can be taken on the road -- that's what I'm starting to shop for at this point. And something small that I can carry.

Is there anything that you carry with you, on tour or every day, like a BlackBerry or an iPod, that's just attached to you 24/7?

Well the BlackBerry, as much as I hate to admit it, is an appendage for sure. And as far as the iPod goes... you know...I have an iPod and its got 1000 some-odd, if not more, songs on it. But I find that I like to just have, like, a handful of good CDs and use those. I haven't really graduated to the iPod school of thinking (laughs). I think it's too much of a song selection for me to figure out what I want to listen to.


We often find that's true. You spend 15 minutes trying to decide what to listen to, and only five actually listening to anything.

Exactly... that's my take on that.


One last simple question. Mac or PC?

Um.. I have both.

I feel comfortable with both, I carry my Mac around and have a PC at home.

OK, so Mac Book? Mac Pro?

Mac Pro.... Oh wait, wait, wait. No, you know what, I take that back. It's a Mac Book. I almost got a Mac Pro, but I knew I wasn't gonna use it to its full potential. so...

Related Links:

SwitchedSlash Talks Guitar Hero III, 'Slash' (the Book), and Gadget Gifts originally appeared on Switched on Wed, 05 Dec 2007 18:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bookcelebrityguitarguitar heroGuitarHeroguns n rosesGunsNRosesHolidashinterviewmusicslashThe Switched InterviewTheSwitchedInterviewWed, 05 Dec 2007 18:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Uncharted: Drake's Fortune]]>http://www.switched.com/2007/12/04/uncharted-drakes-fortune/http://www.switched.com/2007/12/04/uncharted-drakes-fortune/http://www.switched.com/2007/12/04/uncharted-drakes-fortune/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Uncharted: Drak's FortuneThis new game for the PlayStation 3 gives gamers a little bit of everything: some adventure, some gun play, and a whole lot of tropical adventure. Call it a happy meal, but not so small, and without that grody feeling you get after eating it. Imagine the perfect mix of Gears of War, Tomb Raider, and a little Mario and you have Uncharted: Drake's Fortune. Pick this one up for the gamer who has played everything and wants something new. Gorgeous high-definition graphics and a compelling story round this one out into one of our favorite games of the year. You won't see production values like this in just any game, and it's brought to you by the same people who made the Jak and Daxter series.

From Sony

SwitchedUncharted: Drake's Fortune originally appeared on Switched on Tue, 04 Dec 2007 18:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Tue, 04 Dec 2007 18:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Logitech QuickCam Pro 9000 HD Webcam]]>http://www.switched.com/2007/12/01/gift-guide-logitech-quickcam-pro-9000-and-skype-hd-video-callin/http://www.switched.com/2007/12/01/gift-guide-logitech-quickcam-pro-9000-and-skype-hd-video-callin/http://www.switched.com/2007/12/01/gift-guide-logitech-quickcam-pro-9000-and-skype-hd-video-callin/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Now that Skype and Logitech have unveiled upgrades to their video calling software, it's time to start videocalling over the Internet in High-Definition. With the QuickCam Pro 9000 and its snazzy Carl Zeiss lens, travelers can finally make those 30--frames-per--second calls to their buddies (or significant others) and do lightning-fast karate moves with no frozen frames! It's small and compact, which makes it ideal for the traveler's laptop. And even though it shoots and displays in state-of-the-art HD, the QuickCamPro 9000 is virtually dummy-proof, since it has built-in face-tracking technoloogy to keep you focused in the center of the frame. It's a steal at $99.

From Logitech


SwitchedLogitech QuickCam Pro 9000 HD Webcam originally appeared on Switched on Sat, 01 Dec 2007 13:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>expire-images:2008-11-30Gadget Hound, Under $100GadgetHound,Under$100HDHolidashwebcamsSat, 01 Dec 2007 13:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Cable Turtles]]>http://www.switched.com/2007/12/01/cable-turtles/http://www.switched.com/2007/12/01/cable-turtles/http://www.switched.com/2007/12/01/cable-turtles/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Anybody with a lot of gadgets has a lot of cables, which can get tangled and unsightly without too much effort. The clutter-averse gadget head or neat-freak in your life will find the ingeniously-designed Cable Turtles to be useful. The doughnut-shaped rubber Cable Turtles flip inside out to reveal a central pole that is used to wrap your power cord around. When you're done wrapping, you just flip the cover back over and presto, the cable is safely tucked away for storage, or significantly shortened, if you just want less cord clutter. Since they start at $9 (for the smallest model), Cable Turtles are an excellent stocking stuffer.

From Cable Turtles

SwitchedCable Turtles originally appeared on Switched on Sat, 01 Dec 2007 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Gadget Hound, Under $10GadgetHound,Under$10HolidashHoliday Gift GuideHolidayGiftGuideSat, 01 Dec 2007 12:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Best Headphones for the Gym]]>http://www.switched.com/2007/11/30/the-best-headphones-for-the-gym/http://www.switched.com/2007/11/30/the-best-headphones-for-the-gym/http://www.switched.com/2007/11/30/the-best-headphones-for-the-gym/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

It's the holiday season and we're all eating a bit more. Unfortunately, going to the gym is such a drag that the only way to make time pass (and exercise more bearable) is to blast some tunes while we work out. Unfortunately, many of the headphones we like to wear on the street (because they're stylish), at home (because they're audiophile-quality), or while we travel (because they block out airplane cabin noise) just don't cut it on the treadmill. Headphones have a tendency to fall off our heads while we jog, for example, or just hurt out ears. But have no fear: We put five highly-touted, gym-friendly headphones to the test by taking them with us on some recent workouts. Here's what we found.



H2O Sport Headphones

The only over-the-ear pair of headphones we tested, the H2O Sport is a pretty good option for budget-conscious athletes: For 30 bucks, these things actually provide decent bass response and get plenty loud. The neckwrap helps keep the headphones in place while you get your sweat on, and the coiled cord conveniently retracts to three feet (six feet when extended). That said, the plastic construction is a bit chintzy, and the cord feels like it might rip if you tug it too hard. The phones are a bit bulky and feel like they may give out after a year or so, but until then, they'll definitely get the job done whle you work out.

SwitchedBest Headphones for the Gym originally appeared on Switched on Fri, 30 Nov 2007 22:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking+newsearbudsgym gadgetsGymGadgetsheadphonesHolidashHoliday Gift GuideHolidayGiftGuidesports gadgetsSportsGadgetstopworkout gadgetsWorkoutGadgetsFri, 30 Nov 2007 22:15:00 EST<![CDATA[MoPods]]>http://www.switched.com/2007/11/22/mopods/http://www.switched.com/2007/11/22/mopods/http://www.switched.com/2007/11/22/mopods/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



There are those who prefer their holiday gifts small and cute (either giving or receiving), and for those people, MoPods make a great choice. The idea is to wear your MoPod on your bag, belt, clothing, key rings, then just go about your business and wait for them to spin and flash to alert you when your phone is ringing There's something for every cute fetish: panda, devil, kitten, puppy, and penguin, to name a few. It should be noted that they'll only work on GSM networks (that includes most T-Mobile and AT&T phones, including the iPhone), and not 3G networks (or any Sprint or Verizon Wireless phone). They're cheap, they're (sorta) practical, and they're big in Japan. What more could you ask for? (Hint: it rhymes with "iPhone".)


From MoPods

SwitchedMoPods originally appeared on Switched on Thu, 22 Nov 2007 09:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>$50 and under$50AndUnderBig in JapanBigInJapanHolidashHoliday Gift GuideHolidayGiftGuideMan/Woman Who Has EverythingMan/womanWhoHasEverythingOnly in JapanOnlyInJapanThu, 22 Nov 2007 09:37:00 EST<![CDATA[V-Moda Vibe]]>http://www.switched.com/2007/11/19/v-moda-vibe/http://www.switched.com/2007/11/19/v-moda-vibe/http://www.switched.com/2007/11/19/v-moda-vibe/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Whether your giftee wants to rock out at the club or work out at the gym, V-Moda's Vibe (and iPhone-compatible Vibe Duo) makes a great choice. Sound quality is higher than many (much) more expensive models (the bass is pretty booming), and the buds fit very snugly in your ears. These $99 buds are also made of solid metal -- unlike your chintzy iPod headphones, which we've broken countless pairs of -- so they can take a beating (and a sweating). They even come with a plastic piece with which to wrap the excess cord, so it doesn't get caught in the spokes of your SoloFlex or random objects in your path, as well as a leather pouch for transport. Oh, and V-Modas come in black and silver, too, if shiny red headphones isn't your thing.

From v-moda

SwitchedV-Moda Vibe originally appeared on Switched on Mon, 19 Nov 2007 20:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>HolidashHoliday Gift GuideHolidayGiftGuideJocksummerreviewsunder $100Under$100Mon, 19 Nov 2007 20:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo Mimobots]]>http://www.switched.com/2007/11/19/gift-guide-halo-mimobots/http://www.switched.com/2007/11/19/gift-guide-halo-mimobots/http://www.switched.com/2007/11/19/gift-guide-halo-mimobots/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



For those among us with a severe case of Halo 3-itis (which seems to be about seven trillion and counting), the new limited-edition Halo Mimobots ($55-$115) make a great stocking stuffer. These USB Flash drives come in sizes ranging from 1-gigabyte (GB) - 4-gigabytes (GB), and you have your choice of either Master Chief (pictured), or blue or red Spartans. They come preloaded with a bunch of Halo content, including the mimobot soundByte[TM] application (featuring Halo sound effects), artwork, excerpts from the upcoming Halo novel, and a special episode of 'This Spartan Life.' Uber-fans can even stick them into the front USB ports of their limited-ish edition Halo 3 Xbox 360 to impress -- uh, themselves? And maybe their friends. But not their girlfriend. Really.


From mimoco

SwitchedHalo Mimobots originally appeared on Switched on Mon, 19 Nov 2007 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>$100 and under$100AndUnderGamersGeek GearGeekGearHalo 3Halo3HolidashHoliday Gift GuideHolidayGiftGuideMimobotsUSB DrivesUSB GadgetsUsbDrivesUsbGadgetsMon, 19 Nov 2007 19:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Razer Lachesis Gaming Mouse]]>http://www.switched.com/2007/11/19/razer-lachesis-gaming-mouse-gamer-100-and-under/http://www.switched.com/2007/11/19/razer-lachesis-gaming-mouse-gamer-100-and-under/http://www.switched.com/2007/11/19/razer-lachesis-gaming-mouse-gamer-100-and-under/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Razer Lachesis

This sexy mouse isn't your every day point-and-click device. Oh, no. Razer has been in the gaming peripheral business since day one, and their newest gaming mouse, the $80 Lachesis, uses a 4000 dot-per-inch laser to track every minute movement. The gamer in your life will be sniping, gunning, and casting spells with the best of them if you put this under the tree (or Hannukkah bush). Complete with spooky glowing blue lights, exceptional drivers, and compatibility with both Mac and PC, this is the gamer mouse to get this holiday.

From Razer

SwitchedRazer Lachesis Gaming Mouse originally appeared on Switched on Mon, 19 Nov 2007 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Mon, 19 Nov 2007 11:58:00 EST