Switched http://www.switched.com Switched http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Switched http://www.switched.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[50 Under $50: Back to School]]>http://www.switched.com/2010/08/18/50-under-50-back-to-school/http://www.switched.com/2010/08/18/50-under-50-back-to-school/http://www.switched.com/2010/08/18/50-under-50-back-to-school/#commentsFiled under: ,

chalkboard with back to school items
None of us here (aside from our lovely intern, Matt Evans) are going back to school this year. But that doesn't mean we can't drool over the delightful gadgets and finely designed objects (like this foldable keyboard) that are offered to returning academics of all ages. We've put together some gear to make even those that cheer "no more pencils, no more books" in May excited to crack open some hardcovers in September. Though our age recommendations are just suggestions, we've broken our picks down by grade level, and can honestly say that we have something for everyone. Even if the bell isn't sounding for you this year, take a look at our list and pad your office with some cool new schwag.

By Leila Brillson, Ben Deitz and Thomas Houston

Switched50 Under $50: Back to School originally appeared on Switched on Wed, 18 Aug 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>backtoschooleducationfeaturesschooltopWed, 18 Aug 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sweet and Simple: The Best Basic Phones for Our Dearest Dads]]>http://www.switched.com/2010/06/15/sweet-and-simple-the-best-basic-phones-for-our-dearest-dads/http://www.switched.com/2010/06/15/sweet-and-simple-the-best-basic-phones-for-our-dearest-dads/http://www.switched.com/2010/06/15/sweet-and-simple-the-best-basic-phones-for-our-dearest-dads/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Dad Phones
A reader asks: My father is a businessman who travels a lot internationally, and asked me to find him a bare bones, simple cell phone that works well but also looks good. For the life of me I can't settle on a device. Instead, the market is flooded with smartphones or regular ones with tons of confusing crap stuffed inside. He doesn't text much but needs the capability, and his vision and hearing aren't the best, so font size and volume are biggies, too. I've given up searching so Just Tell Me What To Get!

Dear Reader: We think your father probably represents a vast, under-served market sweet spot: the Boomers who regularly use cell phones and text, but have no need for a tricked-out convergent cell phone. Call them the silenced majority, if you will. It seems with all the smartphone mania of the past few years, cell makers threw the baby out with the bathwater, and have all but abandoned developing quality "feature" phones, as they're now called. They have the same flimsy designs and craptastic OSes they've had for the past five years, with perhaps a token media player, Web browser and camera thrown in. It's a shame. If the marketplace works anywhere as efficiently as economist Adam Smith proposed, some clever phone manufacturer is surely going to read your letter, realize the value of this market, design a spectacularly simple but good phone and make a killing. (We don't mean the Jitterbug, which, while perfect for some people, isn't right in this case.) Please let it be soon.

Until then, though, we do have a few suggestions to help out. Since you didn't say what service provider he uses and we suspect you aren't the only one with this dilemma, we went ahead and found the best "simple" phone for each of the big four U.S. carriers -- ones that are sturdy, stylish and simple, and that can be used internationally (with the exception of Sprint). Oh, and because we've been on the receiving end of plenty of pocket dialers, we only went with flip phones for easy, compact travel for your dad on-the-go.

Continue reading Sweet and Simple: The Best Basic Phones for Our Dearest Dads

SwitchedSweet and Simple: The Best Basic Phones for Our Dearest Dads originally appeared on Switched on Tue, 15 Jun 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>attcellphonesescapadeexpire-images:2011-6-14feature phonesFeaturePhonesfeaturesglobalinternationalinternational phonesInternationalPhonesjusttellmewhattogetnokianokia 3711Nokia3711pantechpantech breeze iiPantechBreezeIiquad-bandsanyosanyo scp 3810SanyoScp3810sprintt-mobiletopverizonverizon wireless escaladeVerizonWirelessEscaladeVisionImpairedTue, 15 Jun 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SNL's Top 10 Greatest Fake Tech Commercials]]>http://www.switched.com/2010/06/09/snls-top-10-greatest-fake-tech-commercials/http://www.switched.com/2010/06/09/snls-top-10-greatest-fake-tech-commercials/http://www.switched.com/2010/06/09/snls-top-10-greatest-fake-tech-commercials/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

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Despite the dozens of iconic characters 'Saturday Night Live' has spawned over its 35 years, the most consistently funny and memorable moments have come from its hallmark spoof ads. After striking comedic gold in its very first season with a sketch about Mel's Char Palace, SNL's writers soon keyed into the parodic potential of America's longstanding obsession with technology, resulting in Dan Aykroyd's seminal Ronco send-up, the Super Bass-O-Matic '76. Since then, tech continues to serve as a golden goose for the series, allowing the writers to celebrate -- or stick it to -- an endless variety of ad campaigns, products or social trends. Switched sifted through the three decades of tech-related parody commercials available online, and came up with our top ten list for the ages. (Our caveat: NBC has cracked down so unmercifully that virtually no SNL clips exist anywhere other than on Hulu.com and NBC.com, which means all of them have brief ads. Sorry kids!) Hit up the comments for any winners we missed or ones you'd like to nominate.

Continue reading SNL's Top 10 Greatest Fake Tech Commercials

SwitchedSNL's Top 10 Greatest Fake Tech Commercials originally appeared on Switched on Wed, 09 Jun 2010 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisingcanoncarcomedycommercialDatingSiteseharmonyernestinefeaturesfunnyinsurancephonerobotroombaSaturdayNightLivesnlsnl spoofst-mobiletelevisiontopWed, 09 Jun 2010 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Fed Up With Facebook? Delete it, and Here's How]]>http://www.switched.com/2010/05/17/fed-up-with-facebook-delete-it-and-heres-how/http://www.switched.com/2010/05/17/fed-up-with-facebook-delete-it-and-heres-how/http://www.switched.com/2010/05/17/fed-up-with-facebook-delete-it-and-heres-how/#commentsFiled under: ,

Delete your Facebook account
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Back in February, CEO Mark Zuckerberg celebrated Facebook's 6th birthday and 400 millionth member by penning an open letter to his users to thank them for making both milestones possible. "Whether in times of tragedy or joy, people want to share and help one another," Zuckerberg wrote. "This human need is what inspires us to continue to innovate and build things that allow people to connect easily and share their lives with one another."

His language may have been grandiose, but Zuckerberg's message was clear: Facebook is only as big as its users have allowed it to be. Zuckerberg designed the Facebook universe, but it was the online proletariat that provided the gravitational force necessary to keep everything in orbit.

Somewhere between then and now, however, things changed. The campfire's been extinguished, the 'Kumbayah' songs of global online brotherhood are now nothing more than a faint echo.

Continue reading Fed Up With Facebook? Delete it, and Here's How

SwitchedFed Up With Facebook? Delete it, and Here's How originally appeared on Switched on Mon, 17 May 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>facebookfeatureshow to delete your facebook accountHowToDeleteYourFacebookAccountinstanpersonalizationmark zuckerbergMarkZuckerbergprivacysecuritysocialnetworkingtopwebMon, 17 May 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Last-Minute Gifts Your Ma Will Get for Mother's Day]]>http://www.switched.com/2010/05/07/last-minute-gifts-your-ma-will-get-for-mothers-day/http://www.switched.com/2010/05/07/last-minute-gifts-your-ma-will-get-for-mothers-day/http://www.switched.com/2010/05/07/last-minute-gifts-your-ma-will-get-for-mothers-day/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Mother's Day Gifts
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If you're reading this, chances are it's because once again the second Sunday of May has crept up on you with nary a thought for dear old Ma, and now you're in a white-knuckled panic looking for something to show that you care more than you apparently do. But never fear, once again the trusty Internet -- that faithful refuge for poor planners and the absent-minded -- doth provide. We've scoured the 'Net for the best stuff you can still get delivered (if you really hurry) (or at least print out and stuff in a card or e-mail by Saturday) and helpfully grouped them by strategy. Godspeed, and oh yeah -- say hello to your mother for me.

Continue reading Last-Minute Gifts Your Ma Will Get for Mother's Day

SwitchedLast-Minute Gifts Your Ma Will Get for Mother's Day originally appeared on Switched on Fri, 07 May 2010 12:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ancestry.comanimotocharityCharityNavigatorcharitywatch.orgfeaturesgift guidesGiftGuidesgiftsjamoramakivamementosmemoriesmotherMothers Daymothers Day giftsMothersDayMothersDayGiftsNetflixnintendo dsi xlNintendoDsiXlnon-profitsphotospraxis languagePraxisLanguagepro mujerProMujerrocket pianoRocketPianoscrapblogscrapbooksshutterflysnapfishtopUSPSFri, 07 May 2010 12:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Robot Rock: The Cyborg Songs That Make Us Adore Our Metal Overlords]]>http://www.switched.com/2010/05/05/robot-rock-the-cyborg-songs-that-make-us-adore-our-metal-overlo/http://www.switched.com/2010/05/05/robot-rock-the-cyborg-songs-that-make-us-adore-our-metal-overlo/http://www.switched.com/2010/05/05/robot-rock-the-cyborg-songs-that-make-us-adore-our-metal-overlo/#commentsFiled under:

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That scene in 'Empire Strikes Back' where Luke confronts the Dream Vader in a cave on Degobah, only to realize that he is becoming a hate-filled machine like his father, is a bit like our relationship with technology. Slowly, we become "more man than machine, twisted and eee-vile." As Kraftwerk suggests, we are all robots, motoring along our little programmed paths, using our phones, iPods and computers as literal extensions of ourselves -- not to mention whatever implants we receive over the years. But we should celebrate our robotics, we say -- whether it's Spoon's adorable little boogying 'bot, or any one of the countless ballads of robot love.

We must sadly admit that we already used Bjork's super-appropriate "All is Full of Love" in an earlier round-up, but let us know your favorite tunes about robot love in the comments below, or tell us on Twitter using the hashtag #ROBOTLOVE.

SwitchedRobot Rock: The Cyborg Songs That Make Us Adore Our Metal Overlords originally appeared on Switched on Wed, 05 May 2010 13:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuresmusic videosMusicVideosrobotstopWed, 05 May 2010 13:48:00 EST<![CDATA[Games on the Go: Animal Murder Frenzies and Suicidally Charged Adventures]]>http://www.switched.com/2010/04/30/games-on-the-go-animal-murder-frenzies-and-suicidally-charged-a/http://www.switched.com/2010/04/30/games-on-the-go-animal-murder-frenzies-and-suicidally-charged-a/http://www.switched.com/2010/04/30/games-on-the-go-animal-murder-frenzies-and-suicidally-charged-a/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Games on the Go
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Flash games are supposed to entertain and provide a gentle distraction from our daily doldrums. Mashing and killing fellow creatures and animals is restricted to the 'Modern Warfare' segment, and surely never comes from lovable indie designers that bring us titles like 'Sushi Cat,' right? Apparently, that is not the case, as this week's selection, it appears, has slightly more devious intentions. From organized suicide in games like 'Seppukuties' and 'The Company of Myself,' to the dark, homicidally charged 'Gretel and Hansel,' these games may relieve the tension of that frustrating board meeting... or prove to be just as gruesome as anything 'God of War' dishes out.

Continue reading Games on the Go: Animal Murder Frenzies and Suicidally Charged Adventures

SwitchedGames on the Go: Animal Murder Frenzies and Suicidally Charged Adventures originally appeared on Switched on Fri, 30 Apr 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>company of myselfCompanyOfMyselffeaturesflash gamesFlashGamesgamesonthegogretel and hanselGretelAndHanselmushroom madnessMushroomMadnessseppukutiesthis is the only levelThisIsTheOnlyLeveltimewasterstopvideo gamesVideoGamesFri, 30 Apr 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[10 Ways to Keep Your Data Safe]]>http://www.switched.com/2010/04/29/10-ways-to-keep-your-data-safe/http://www.switched.com/2010/04/29/10-ways-to-keep-your-data-safe/http://www.switched.com/2010/04/29/10-ways-to-keep-your-data-safe/#commentsFiled under: ,

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Since 2005, there have been at least 358.4 million personal records lost to security breaches, according to the Privacy Rights Clearinghouse. This includes everything from home addresses to credit card numbers and Social Security information. But, as frightening as the prospect of your sensitive data being compromised is, simply removing all traces of yourself from the Web is not a viable option. There are, however, simple steps you can take to protect yourself and your data from most attacks. Here are our tips for keeping your data safe, both online and off.

Switched10 Ways to Keep Your Data Safe originally appeared on Switched on Thu, 29 Apr 2010 12:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biometricbitlockercreditcardfeaturesharddriveskill switchKillSwitchlistsecuritysecurity softwareSecuritySoftwaresocialnetworkingtoptruecryptThu, 29 Apr 2010 12:40:00 EST<![CDATA[New Security Concerns Floating Around in Cloud Computing]]>http://www.switched.com/2010/04/29/new-security-concerns-floating-around-in-cloud-computing/http://www.switched.com/2010/04/29/new-security-concerns-floating-around-in-cloud-computing/http://www.switched.com/2010/04/29/new-security-concerns-floating-around-in-cloud-computing/#commentsFiled under: ,

While cloud computing might be one of the hottest trends in tech these days, it's not without risks. Both consumers and businesses face hazards that most proponents have been reluctant to discuss.

Think of the cloud as a central supercomputer that stores both data and applications. Instead of having to spend thousands on state-of-the-art hardware and graphics cards, you can hook into this machine via the Internet, both accessing programs and storing your files with no space limitations. It's not without risks, though.

"It feels like we're starting security all over again with the cloud," says Chris Drake, CEO and founder of FireHost, Inc., a secure Web hosting company. "The cloud has knocked us back to the stone age of security." Don't misunderstand, though; no one is saying that other forms of Web hosting are flawless. But, when your personal data is being held in the same location as thousands of other people's, it's an inviting target for hackers, and a security breach can have much more profound implications. The ultimate security of the cloud really depends on who's the watchdog. Bigger services, such as Google and Amazon.com, have many layers of security and are considered more reputable. But that's not always the case with smaller providers.

Continue reading New Security Concerns Floating Around in Cloud Computing

SwitchedNew Security Concerns Floating Around in Cloud Computing originally appeared on Switched on Thu, 29 Apr 2010 08:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chris drakeChrisDrakecloudfeaturesnorton 360Norton360ponemon institutePonemonInstitutesafetysecuritysymantectopThu, 29 Apr 2010 08:25:00 EST<![CDATA[What's the Best HDTV I Can Get for Under $500?]]>http://www.switched.com/2010/04/05/whats-the-best-hdtv-i-can-get-for-under-500/http://www.switched.com/2010/04/05/whats-the-best-hdtv-i-can-get-for-under-500/http://www.switched.com/2010/04/05/whats-the-best-hdtv-i-can-get-for-under-500/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

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A reader asks: I just moved into a new house, have an empty living room, and want the best possible TV I can get to fill the gaping hole -- for under 500 bucks, that is. I know it's a tall order, but I'm broke and need to be sure whatever TV I get is going to impress my suspicious wife and last for the next, oh, 30 years -- until I've finally paid off my mortgage. So please, just tell me what to get!

Dear Reader: Our sincere congratulations on your new home!. (And congrats to your neighbors, too, who surely will benefit from your propping up the ailing real estate market.) With apologies to the Dude, we're firm believers that nothing ties a room together like a swanky new TV, so we're more than happy to do the heavy lifting for you.

Continue reading What's the Best HDTV I Can Get for Under $500?

SwitchedWhat's the Best HDTV I Can Get for Under $500? originally appeared on Switched on Mon, 05 Apr 2010 13:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1080p120hzbudgetfeatureshdtvjusttellmewhattogetpanasonic viera tcle32g1PanasonicVieraTcle32g1sony bravia ex400SonyBraviaEx400toptvMon, 05 Apr 2010 13:35:00 EST<![CDATA[What's the Best PC Monitor/TV for Under $350?]]>http://www.switched.com/2010/03/25/the-best-pc-monitor-tv-for-under-350/http://www.switched.com/2010/03/25/the-best-pc-monitor-tv-for-under-350/http://www.switched.com/2010/03/25/the-best-pc-monitor-tv-for-under-350/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

A reader asks: One of my college housemates just moved out, which is a good thing, but he took his TV with him. This is a bad thing. So I'm looking for a PC monitor that can do double duty as a TV, too -- something reasonably big, as good quality as possible, fast enough for console games and is around $350 or so. I'm stuck with a laptop 12-inch screen until you reply, so hurry up and just tell me what to get!

Dear Reader: On those gray days when we wake up in the morning and wonder what it all means anyway, it's questions like these that bring us around and get our blood pumping again: We do it for the children!

Sob stories aside, your question is actually a good one, since a dual-purpose monitor is a great solution for a lot of people who don't have the space, cash or inclination to get multiple flat screens. And, while we're under the impression that many college kids already watch TV shows almost exclusively on laptops and monitors, movies and console games are inherently social activities that benefit from a communal screen.

Continue reading What's the Best PC Monitor/TV for Under $350?

SwitchedWhat's the Best PC Monitor/TV for Under $350? originally appeared on Switched on Thu, 25 Mar 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1080p24-inch display24-inchDisplayfeatureshdtvjusttellmewhattogetmonitorp2570reviewssamsung syncmaster p2570SamsungSyncmasterP2570topThu, 25 Mar 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Invite-Only Shopping Explained: What's Good, From Gilt Groupe to Glam List]]>http://www.switched.com/2010/03/23/invite-only-shopping-explained-whats-good-from-gilt-groupe-to/http://www.switched.com/2010/03/23/invite-only-shopping-explained-whats-good-from-gilt-groupe-to/http://www.switched.com/2010/03/23/invite-only-shopping-explained-whats-good-from-gilt-groupe-to/#commentsFiled under: ,

By Leila Brillson and Ben Deitz
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Explaining invite-only shopping to the uninitiated is a daunting task. The timed sales, the select merchandise -- shoppers who are used to the traditional way of e-commerce are usually baffled. "Why don't they have my size?" "The item was in my basket last night, where did it go today?" Of course, those who are familiar with the system, waiting diligently for their sale to start, have a hard time being lured away from the exclusive deals.

By using an invite code and a log-in, invite-only shoppers are able to view a limited number of goods and reserve them for a stated amount of minutes. (Most sites have a showy countdown display.) If they do not buy in time, the item is released and another person can snatch it up, leaving the indecisive at a loss.

Simply stated, invite-only sites are online sample sales. What started as a repository for last season's goods and overstocked items became a way for shoppers to get deep discounts and for companies to get more recognition. Designers and companies win, offering previews to next season's goods or cutting down on unwanted inventory. The built-in clientele and independent sales appeal to smaller companies, like Alexander Wang or A-Life, while the subscription-based aspect works for larger labels like Calvin Klein or Ann Taylor. For emerging brands, an association with a trusted name like Gilt Groupe both adds legitimacy and lowers marketing costs, since Gilt does its own styling and creates its own "lookbooks." The sites themselves benefit; Gilt Groupe has become a legitimate location for high fashion, and its sartorial shoots, dedicated fanbase and designer picks have made it a proper retailing tastemaker. Lastly, shoppers get a few perks, too; every site prides itself on its exclusivity, forgoing the traditional Amazon experience for a more high-end, in-crowd feel. Also, each product has its own incentive program; for each person that uses your specific invite code for a purchase, a discount is applied to your next purchase, effectively turning savvy shopping into a discount venture.

The fashion followers among us, Leila Brillson and Ben Deitz, tracked and tried every major invite-only service available for a month. Visiting daily and browsing selections, return policies, prices and promotions, they've gathered a comprehensive guide to the new world of online, time-sensitive sales. The result? The addictive, pressure-based shopping experience, as paired with rapidly changing selections, got them hooked. Still, not all sale sites are created equal, so here's how you can get the best bang for your buck, while adding key pieces to your wardrobes. Oh, and if you're looking for an invite, let us know. We've certainly got you covered.

Continue reading Invite-Only Shopping Explained: What's Good, From Gilt Groupe to Glam List

SwitchedInvite-Only Shopping Explained: What's Good, From Gilt Groupe to Glam List originally appeared on Switched on Tue, 23 Mar 2010 13:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dealseditors closetEditorsClosetfeaturesgiltglamlisthautelookideeliinvite onlyInviteOnlyone kings laneOneKingsLaneonlineshoppingruelalasalesshop it to meShopItToMeshoppingtopwebTue, 23 Mar 2010 13:35:00 EST<![CDATA[The Best Earbuds That Won't Break the Bank]]>http://www.switched.com/2010/03/15/the-best-earbuds-that-wont-break-the-bank/http://www.switched.com/2010/03/15/the-best-earbuds-that-wont-break-the-bank/http://www.switched.com/2010/03/15/the-best-earbuds-that-wont-break-the-bank/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


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A reader asks: The original Apple iPod ear buds I've been using for years have finally crapped out, and I'm looking for a replacement and hopefully an upgrade. My budget is $100 max, and I want the best possible combination of good sound and comfort. I'm not a huge fan of the types you shove in your ear canal. Since you can't try out earphones at any stores I've visited, I have no idea what the best options are, so just tell me what to get!

Dear Reader: We hear you loud and clear. The inability to test out earphones before buying is a tricky affair, like the consumer electronics version of a pot luck dinner; you might stumble upon something really tasty or get screwed with the equivalent of the dreaded green bean casserole with cream of mushroom soup and fried onions.

To clarify a bit, the term "earbuds" refers to earphones that sit in the rim of the ear, while "canalphones," or "in-ear monitors," are the variety inserted into the ear canal. The difference between the two is immense. Buds are preferred by many for comfort and also for the ability to hear outside sound in addition to music. However, earbuds can't approach the sonic experience offered by similarly priced canalphones, and often require a higher volume in order to compete with ambient noise. As a result, they can potentially endanger your long-term hearing. Canalphones, on the other hand, can offer incredible sound quality at a much lower volume and typically shut out a majority of ambient sound (although that can be a problem if you're, say, biking in traffic or walking along a busy street). Canalphones aren't for everyone, seeing as they get shoved deep into the ear canal, making for a more "intimate" experience with the intricacies of using an ear wax pick. But we digress...

Continue reading The Best Earbuds That Won't Break the Bank

SwitchedThe Best Earbuds That Won't Break the Bank originally appeared on Switched on Mon, 15 Mar 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AkgK319canalphonesEarBudEarBudsearphonefeaturesIEMin-ear monitorsIn-earMonitorsjusttellmewhattogetKlipschImageS4ShureSe210topMon, 15 Mar 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[What Underwater Point-and-Shoot Camera Should I Get?]]>http://www.switched.com/2010/03/08/what-underwater-point-and-shoot-camera-should-i-get/http://www.switched.com/2010/03/08/what-underwater-point-and-shoot-camera-should-i-get/http://www.switched.com/2010/03/08/what-underwater-point-and-shoot-camera-should-i-get/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



A reader asks: I'm interested in a waterproof camera for an upcoming trip but can't decide between the various point-and-shoot models. I've read that some leak, or simply don't take great pictures. I know you can buy waterproof camera housings but wonder if I can get away with one camera that just does it all. So, just tell me what to get!

Dear Reader: We totally agree. In our perfect world, every camera would be waterproof, shockproof, scratch-proof, lightweight and be able to snap perfect photos without a fuss. Encouragingly, several camera companies are taking steps in the right direction with moderately priced waterproof/ruggedized models already available from Canon, Fujifilm, Olympus, Pentax and Sony, among others. Less encouraging is that virtually all of them have some hiccup that leaves us wanting.

Gallery: Waterproof Camera

Continue reading What Underwater Point-and-Shoot Camera Should I Get?

SwitchedWhat Underwater Point-and-Shoot Camera Should I Get? originally appeared on Switched on Mon, 08 Mar 2010 13:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>canon powershot d10CanonPowershotD10featuresjusttellmewhattogetpoint and shootpoint-and-shootPointAndShoottopwaterproofwaterproof camerawaterproofcameraMon, 08 Mar 2010 13:10:00 EST<![CDATA[What's the Best Point-and-Shoot Camera Under $150?]]>http://www.switched.com/2010/02/26/whats-the-best-point-and-shoot-camera-under-150/http://www.switched.com/2010/02/26/whats-the-best-point-and-shoot-camera-under-150/http://www.switched.com/2010/02/26/whats-the-best-point-and-shoot-camera-under-150/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

A reader writes: My wife treats digital cameras like they're disposables, so once again I'm in charge of finding her next victim. Since I know I'll be in this position again by the end of summer, what's my best option for a camera that takes great pictures, is simple as pie to use, and is cheap enough that it won't make me cry when she inevitably busts it -- say under $150 or so? I've given up on winning this battle, so Just Tell Me What to Get!

Dear Reader: While our first instinct is to dispatch Switched's 'Minority Report'-style Precrimes Division in order to prevent any more techie tragedies at the hands of your wife, you asked for an answer and not an intervention, so we'll keep them at bay. For now.

Continue reading What's the Best Point-and-Shoot Camera Under $150?

SwitchedWhat's the Best Point-and-Shoot Camera Under $150? originally appeared on Switched on Fri, 26 Feb 2010 12:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>budgetjtmwtgjusttellmewhattogetlumix dmc-fs7LumixDmc-fs7panasonicpanasonic lumix dmc-fs7PanasonicLumixDmc-fs7topFri, 26 Feb 2010 12:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Ready for Blast Off: Bangin' Songs From Outer Space]]>http://www.switched.com/2010/02/24/ready-for-blast-off-bangin-songs-from-outer-space/http://www.switched.com/2010/02/24/ready-for-blast-off-bangin-songs-from-outer-space/http://www.switched.com/2010/02/24/ready-for-blast-off-bangin-songs-from-outer-space/#commentsFiled under:

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Look, we've said it before, but it can't hurt to be clear: We are all nerds. Everyone at Switched, our friends, our parents, and the musicians we love. Because, to us anyway, being a nerd means looking up and imagining something active and wonderful outside of our little cubicle-walled existences. Be it 'Star Wars' or Sun Ra, a healthy imagination, for the most part, is the realm of geekdom.

No place has been home to such fantastical wanderings as outer space, and when songsters take their tunes upwards, the videos turn out to be a great deal of fun. We had a healthy debate here, deciding whether we would include songs about space (like "Destination Venus" by Man or Astro-man?), or just videos that actually take place in space. Fortunately, Bowie's "Space Oddity" happens to be both. The amount of songs that merely mention space are tremendous, so we listed only our favorites featuring, taking place in, or adventuring towards the orbital and cosmic. Enjoy our top 14 tunes about blasting off!

Continue reading Ready for Blast Off: Bangin' Songs From Outer Space

SwitchedReady for Blast Off: Bangin' Songs From Outer Space originally appeared on Switched on Wed, 24 Feb 2010 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amanda palmerAmandaPalmerbjorkboards of canadaBoardsOfCanadadavid bowieDavidBowiefeaturesflight of the conchordsFlightOfTheConchordsfoo fightersFooFighterskanye westKanyeWestlcd soundsystemLcdSoundsystemlou reedLouReedmusicmusic videosMusicVideosschoolhouse rockSchoolhouseRocksmashing pumpkinsSmashingPumpkinssun raSunRathe dreamthe strokesTheDreamTheStrokestopWed, 24 Feb 2010 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Top 5 Comedians Who Tweet (and 5 Who Should)]]>http://www.switched.com/2010/02/23/top-5-comedians-who-tweet-and-5-who-should/http://www.switched.com/2010/02/23/top-5-comedians-who-tweet-and-5-who-should/http://www.switched.com/2010/02/23/top-5-comedians-who-tweet-and-5-who-should/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


It's a happy coincidence that Twitter's 140-character limit happens to be the perfect format for dishing one-liners, wry observations, and, of course, those always satisfying X-rated tirades. Thus, it's an ideal way for comedians to try out new material and broaden their fan bases, and a never-ending source of free content for comedy fans -- a win-win for everyone. To share the wealth with our readers, we've pulled together the five best comic tweeters we follow, and another five who we hope will get their acts together and get online.

Continue reading Top 5 Comedians Who Tweet (and 5 Who Should)

SwitchedTop 5 Comedians Who Tweet (and 5 Who Should) originally appeared on Switched on Tue, 23 Feb 2010 12:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>celebritiescelebritychappelles showChappellesShowcomediancomedianscomedydavid chappelleDavidChappellefeaturesgervaisjim gaffiganjim gaffigan beyond the paleJimGaffiganJimGaffiganBeyondThePaleneil brennanNeilBrennanpatton oswaltPattonOswaltrainn wilsonRainnWilsonsarah silvermanSarah Silverman ProgramSarahSilvermanSarahSilvermanProgramswitchedfollowstoptweettwitterweird al yankovicWeirdAlYankoviczach galifianakisZachGalifianakisTue, 23 Feb 2010 12:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Why 'We Will Not Pay For Facebook' and Gold Membership Scams Refuse to Die]]>http://www.switched.com/2010/02/23/why-we-will-not-pay-for-facebook-and-gold-membership-scams-ref/http://www.switched.com/2010/02/23/why-we-will-not-pay-for-facebook-and-gold-membership-scams-ref/http://www.switched.com/2010/02/23/why-we-will-not-pay-for-facebook-and-gold-membership-scams-ref/#commentsFiled under: , ,

We Will Not Pay For Facebook Scam Refuses to Die

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Facebook has become an indispensable part of daily life for many people. They use it to keep in touch with friends and family, to play games, and to track down old flames. So, it's only natural that folks would panic at the thought of having to pay for what has been a free service. And, of course, there are plenty of e-con men willing to exploit that fear for profit.

The 'We Will Not Pay for Facebook' Scam

Back in December, a group protesting Facebook and the company's rumored plans to charge users $4.99 a month, amassed well over 100,000 members. Of course, it was a giant scam; Facebook had no such agenda, and the group merely served to distribute links to a site that loaded up visiting PCs with malware. Two months later, the scam is back, this time claiming that Facebook plans to charge $3.99. And it's been even more successful. The three groups perpetrating the hoax have collected roughly 340,000 gullible Facebook users, and the number is still climbing.

Continue reading Why 'We Will Not Pay For Facebook' and Gold Membership Scams Refuse to Die

SwitchedWhy 'We Will Not Pay For Facebook' and Gold Membership Scams Refuse to Die originally appeared on Switched on Tue, 23 Feb 2010 10:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>facebookfeatureshoaxmalwarescamsecuritysocial networkingSocialNetworkingtopwe will not pay to use facebookwebWeWillNotPayToUseFacebookTue, 23 Feb 2010 10:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Five Things to Consider When Buying a Computer]]>http://www.switched.com/2010/02/17/five-things-to-consider-when-buying-a-computer/http://www.switched.com/2010/02/17/five-things-to-consider-when-buying-a-computer/http://www.switched.com/2010/02/17/five-things-to-consider-when-buying-a-computer/#commentsFiled under: , ,


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Buying a new computer is always a daunting task. There are tons of variables to consider, including whether or not you're ready to join (or ditch) the cult of Mac. Laptop or desktop? How much RAM? And what processor will you need to power your new rig? As usual, Switched is here to help you navigate the labyrinth of options, and lead you on your path to the best PC for your needs.

SwitchedFive Things to Consider When Buying a Computer originally appeared on Switched on Wed, 17 Feb 2010 12:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5 things to consider5ThingsToConsidercomputerfeaturestopWed, 17 Feb 2010 12:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Design Concepts: Enliven Valentine's With Imaginative, Intimate Devices]]>http://www.switched.com/2010/02/09/design-concepts-enliven-valentines-with-imaginative-intimate/http://www.switched.com/2010/02/09/design-concepts-enliven-valentines-with-imaginative-intimate/http://www.switched.com/2010/02/09/design-concepts-enliven-valentines-with-imaginative-intimate/#commentsFiled under:


The Web is teeming with the unrealized ideas of both students and established designers who set out to produce astonishing renderings and prototypes for unusual products. Unfortunately, due to the lack of time, money, or technology, many of those products never progress from the planning stages to the mass market. But that doesn't mean we can't salivate over them, nevertheless.

In honor of Valentine's Day, we've rounded up some of the year's best concepts in sex toys. While the (familiar?) landscape of sex toy design leaves a lot to be desired, some gifted creatives have taken it upon themselves to address carnal pleasures. One of the main reasons people hide their sex gadgets is that they are embarrassed by the connotations of owning such paraphernalia. The other reason is that you cannot, in good taste, perch an electric pink penetrator next to your stack of Mies van der Rohe monographs. Sex toys ought not be hidden, say some designers -- and they needn't look tacky, either. While nearly all the designs listed here are for more... receptive pleasures, dudes shouldn't diss the science.

Continue reading Design Concepts: Enliven Valentine's With Imaginative, Intimate Devices

SwitchedDesign Concepts: Enliven Valentine's With Imaginative, Intimate Devices originally appeared on Switched on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aloe is a toyAloeIsAToyarik levyArikLevybastian kochBastianKochdesigndesign conceptDesignConceptfeaturesfluid interfaces groupFluidInterfacesGroupimaginarteJimmyjanejonas lonborgJonasLonborgpupsamrenderingsexsex toysSexToystopTue, 09 Feb 2010 12:45:00 EST