3 Eco-Friendly Gadgets and Accessories for iPhone

Electronic devices have their fair share of negative impacts to our planet. Frequent and excessive charging, using power-inefficient peripherals, and purchasing plastic-based accessories are some of the common practices associated with using too many electronics. 

If you can’t leave without these gadgets but want to stay true to your green living goals, then we have six of the most eco-friendly accessories and gadgets you can use with your iPhone.

1) iBamboo iPhone Speaker

The iBamboo Speaker is a one-of-a-kind audio device and iPhone stand made entirely from a single piece of bamboo. It’s crafted with a small dock or opening to hold your Apple device in place, as you listen to your favorite tracks in an amplified sound. It doesn't require any electricity source in order to function. 

See Also: The Sound Pillow for Music Lovers

Once your iPhone is mounted on the speaker, the bamboo’s hollow interior will naturally amplify the intensity of the sound coming from your iPhone’s speakers. It doesn't give you extra loud bass beats similar to a full-fledged speaker set, but it provides you with enough volume to fill a standard-sized room.

2) BioLite Camp Stove

If you are fond of nature-hiking and camping activities, the BioLite Camp Stove combines a charger and a burner in a single device that you can transport with ease. Its small stove is ideal to cook food, to create a warm and cozy bonfire, or to boil water. 

It’s lightweight, durable, and 100% safe. It only uses small scraps of wood and dried leaves to start a fire. This useful machine comes with a $129.95 price tag.

3) Kinesis K3 Wind and Solar Powered iDevice Charger

Solar and wind electricity have become the two most popular renewable energy sources in the energy industry, especially as prices to generate and transmit the energy have been steadily dropping for the past few years. The Kinesis K3 is a portable tool that combines both technologies into one. 

It includes a wind-propelled tiny fan that functions as a turbine. On its body, there’s a tiny solar panel to capture the sun’s energy.  Just let it stand in your balcony as you charge your phone using an adapter cord. Its rechargeable battery holds up to 4,000 mAh of charge and has a maximum output of 1 amp. Priced at $57.89, this one is a keeper.

via: ProjectGreenify

Sony QX10 Camera Gadget For Smartphones

Sony QX10 is a smartphone camera lens with a camera on it; this is what it is all about. Despite being redundant, this accessory makes smartphone photography indicatively new in every sense. It can be somehow related to mirror-less kit lens, only a bit smaller in size and in megapixels. 

And instead of having its own screen, these lenses use the display of smartphones like a wirelessly connected viewfinder. Users can attach these add-ons using a spring loaded clip or have it detached, as long as it stays within a specific range to adjacent to the smartphone.

Tech brand Sony has released this camera lens along with another higher end number, the QX100. There is a big difference in pricing (QX10 comes in $250 while QX100 doubles the price, a whopping $500) as well as in obvious megapixels and sensors. The cheaper of the two, QX10 still promises a photographer-experience using a smartphone camera.

QX10 runs on a ½.3 inch CMOs image sensor and possesses a 10x optical zoom lens, which is surprisingly comparable to many $300 range digital point and shoot cameras. This is easily paired with NFC running phones, with its controls available within the mobile app Sony Play Memories. From the app, users can find the shutter button, zoom, video toggles and three different shooting modes: the intelligent auto, superior auto and the program auto.

The images are saved in two locations, in a micro SD card that fits into the QX10 slip and the smartphone’s own storage. It promises better low-light shooting and a powerful optical zoom that definitely upgrades a smartphone camera’s weak camera into a better quality. Sony QX10 is a fun and quirky accessory that makes a nice addition to a photo enthusiast who hates carrying bulky SLRs. This provides a marriage between lenses and smartphones. 

Sony QX10 camera lens is among the many possibilities of tech giants creating different lens add-ons for mobile gadgets, emphasizing a camera-centric utility. - TechBeat

Qardio ECG Monitor Streams Data To Your IPhone

The co founding father of Qardio Marco Peluso had a career within the finance business for fourteen years. He worked as associate agent for JPMorgan so as a partner at a hedge fund.

But things modified once his father had a stroke whereas they were talking on the phone. “I was lucky enough to grasp what was happening,” he said, memory that he quickly contacted a neighbour to require his father to the hospital. however doctors couldn't determine what triggered the minor stroke, called a Transient anaemia Attack or TIA. 

Solely six months later, his father found himself troubled to end his morning jog. “It was stunning on behalf of me to grasp that even currently, we have a tendency to didn’t have a decent approach of understanding or proving what was happening,” Peluso aforesaid.

He was compelled to go away his career to begin Qardio, that is about to launch the pressure monitor product for customers next year at a worth of $449. They even have a another product, a pressure monitor referred to as QardioArm that may retail for $99.

The electrocardiogram monitor, referred to as the QardioCore, can stream information to the owner’s iPhone and might then send the info on to a person’s health care supplier through a cloud-based service. In result it lets a doctor “see” a patient while not very seeing them personally.

Peluso says his QardioCore product is a smaller amount effort-intensive than alternative subtle monitors, which could need skin patches or shaving a person’s chest etc or even victimization adhesive gel. “It doesn’t need any skin preparation,” he said. “You place it on your chest, it switches itself on once it detects your body, then wirelessly sends signals to your iPhone, that then attend our server.” He says the 2 devices correct a significant downside in health observation as a result of they create electrocardiogram and pressure information trailing passive. this suggests that doctors will collect a stream of knowledge and place it in context rather than taking singular, natural event measurements.

Peluso and his co-founder used a team of engineers and industrial designers to figure on planning each the QardioArm and QardioCore over the past year. The producing method is in geographical region and also the company plans to retail each devices on-line and thru established physical partnerships early in 2014.

Samsung Galaxy Gear Supported for More Smartphones

Samsung Galaxy Gear Smartwatch

Samsung announced on Monday it will bring Galaxy Gear connectivity to more smartphones in the weeks ahead. The move will expand the smartwatch's reach beyond just the Note 3, making it available for a wider audience.

The company said it will be rolling out a Premium Suite update that will make a variety of its devices compatible with the Galaxy Gear smartwatch, including the Samsung Galaxy S4, Galaxy Note II and Galaxy S III.

Samsung’s Premium Suite update will bring Android 4.3 and additional features to smartphones, but the timing and features will differ based on carrier and product, the company said.

The Galaxy S4 mini and Galaxy Mega will also receive an update for Galaxy Gear compatibility, but users will have to wait a bit longer. Samsung said it will become available on those devices in the months ahead.

Image: Mashable, Christina Ascani

This Smartpen Connects to Your iOS 7 Device via Bluetooth

Although it’s true that the simple function of writing things down on paper is rapidly falling out of fashion thanks to our digital devices, there are still some out there with a preference for jotting down notes with a pen or pencil. For those users, the new Livescribe 3 Smartpen could be perfect bridge between old school writing and smartphone technology.

The new device, a worthy follow-up to the company’s Sky Wi-Fi smartpen released last year, can record everything the user writes and hears. Once that information is captured, it has the ability to then transfer that data to your iOS device via Bluetooth.

Compatible with iOS 7, the device's app immediately displays the transferred data as soon it's opened on an iPad or iPhone.

By introducing a Bluetooth version of its smartpen, Livescribe has made the prospect of using one of these still somewhat bleeding-edge devices significantly more attractive. Most mobile users are already trained to pair their wireless keyboards and headsets via Bluetooth, so working the Livescribe 3 into one’s existing mobile toolkit should be absolutely painless.

Equipped with a micro-USB charging cable, the Livescribe 3 is available for $149.95. The company is also releasing a Pro Edition that includes a leather smartpen portfolio with a 100-sheet hardbound journal, as well as a one-year subscription to Evernote Premium.

Have something to add to this story? Share it in the comments.

The Sound Pillow for Music Lovers

The Sound Pillow is an incredible breakthrough in personal audio. The plush, hypoallergenic pillow has two virtually undetectable speakers buried inside and engineered for total comfort and great stereo sound. 

Simply plug the pillow’s standard headphone jack into your personal listening device like CD player, MP3 player, iPod, iPhone, sound machine, laptop etc and lay back and enjoy a restful night’s sleep.
And, the Sound Pillow is roommate friendly – you can use the pillow and not disturb your roommate or bed partner.

Want a complete sleep system pre-loaded with the best sleep music available? Then the Sound Pillow Sleep System is for you! It is our latest innovation, earning rave reviews from tinnitus sufferers, addiction recovery professionals and their clients.

The Sound Pillow Sleep System pairs the Sound Pillow with a user-friendly MP3 player pre-loaded with 18 one hour tracks of sleep-inducing binaural music, nature sounds, and white, pink and blue noise. 

The music was specifically designed to slow down the brain, helping you relax, fall asleep and stay asleep. The system is an affordable, holistic solution for sleep deprivation caused by tinnitus, past traumatic experiences, anxiety, addiction, and the stresses of everyday life.

Via: SoundAsleepPillow

HTC Introduces Fetch and Mini+ Bluetooth Accessories

HTC just outed two new Bluetooth accessories. The Fetch is a tag that helps you keep track of your phone and the Mini+ is a miniature companion phone that lets you place voice calls.

HTC might be working on a big new phone, but apparently it also had enough time to crank out two interesting new Bluetooth accessories. The HTC Fetch and the HTC Mini+ are niche products, for sure, but if you’re invested in HTC’s product ecosystem they might be worth a look.

First up is the Fetch (pictured above), which is a small key ring accessory that uses NFC and Bluetooth to help you keep tabs on your HTC smartphone. It brings to mind Nokia’s Treasure Tags. Simply pair your phone to the Fetch, and if you lose track of it, press the button on the Fetch to make your phone ring from a distance of up to 50 feet. 

The Fetch itself can also be triggered to beep when your phone is no longer within reach. HTC claims battery life should last up to six months on a single charge, thanks to Bluetooth 4.0’s low energy draw. There’s no word on availability or pricing, but Clove is listing the Fetch for 29.99 EUR (about $40 USD). And so far HTC has not said whether the Fetch will work with other Android smartphones.

The HTC Mini+  is a bit stranger. It’s a super lightweight device that looks like a miniature feature phone and pairs with your smartphone via Bluetooth 2.1+EDR. It’s the successor to last year’s HTC mini, which shipped with the HTC Butterfly. Basically, the Mini+ allows you to place or answer calls or read incoming text messages via your smartphone’s connection. 

It can also be used as a remote trigger for your connected phone’s camera. And an infrared transmitter allows you to use it as a remote control for your television by download a companion app to your smartphone. On yeah, it also has a laser pointer.

The Mini+ is designed to work HTC One Mini, the Butterfly S and the Desire 200 and 500. It might be able to work with other Android phones as well, but HTC hasn't confirmed this. Again, there is no pricing or availability, though the device is listed for 64.99 EURO (around $83 USD) at Clove.

Via: Gigaom

Tascam iM2X Turns iPhone Microphones into a high-quality Digital Recorder

Its time to give something to your next generation, something that you did not imagine in your past. iM2X is an ideal technology gadget for iPhone especially iPhone 4/4s. Its a small but very cool and impressive gadget for those who want to make their iPhone more and more attractive. 

The iM2X packs a set of condenser mics in an XY configuration for accurate stereo recordings to an accompanying Tascam iOS app. It allows for CD-quality captures and a USB pass-through still lets you charge your phone with the dongle in place. Since it draws power from the handset, it doesn't require its own batteries either.

But if you prefer to use your own mic or audio feed instead, the iXJ2 features two mic or line inputs that can be used separately or combined for stereo recordings. It’s better suited for using the iPhone as a video capture device, when you want to be able to use lavalier mics or larger shotgun mics for better audio pickup.

Main Features

• X-Y setteing (iM2X) / A-B setting (iM2). 
• The same high-quality stereo condenser microphones as the DR-07MKII and DR-40. 
• Sensitivity up to 125dB SPL for peace of mind in the loudest settings. 
• Vari-angle structure provide ease-of-use in every environment. 
• Mounted AKM AK5357 D/A converter provides top-notch digital transference. 
• Ultra light-weight, take it anywhere. 
• Dedicated battery is not required. 

Audio performance

• Frequency response: 10Hz to 20kHz
• S/N ratio:          95dB or greater
• THD :          Less than 0.01%

iPhone Accessories | Belkin’s Armband for iPhone

Belkin’s Armband for iPhone

Belkin Corporation was honored with iLounge’s coveted "iPod Accessory Maker of the Year" Award in 2006. So with most of the iPod accessory companies making announcements of accessories for the soon to be released iPhone, tauted by many as the most anticipated gadget in history, it comes as no surprise that Belkin wants a piece of the action in the iPhone accessory segment.

iLounge has previewed the Armband for the iPhone from Belkin along with a few other iPhone accessories in the latest free iPod book.

The iPhone armband consists of an elastic material secured with Velcro to hold the iPhone securely while you’re out exercising.

Rather than going with the no-frills elastic armband design like most iPod accessories out there, Belkin’s Armband for iPhone uses a sleek, breathable material with industrial design to highlight iPhone’s face. A side pocket holds a key or your earbuds, while the phone is in a separate compartment with its side buttons marked and its screen fully accessible through a clear protective layer, which will be important to avoid scratches while using iPhone’s multi-touch interface.

In addition, the Belkin’s iPhone Armband is also designed to be low-bulk and machine washable.

Belkin’s Armband for iPhone is expected to cost $30, however other information such as the color options or the release date are not yet known. The iPhone accessory should soon show up on my exclusive iPhone store as well as Belkin’s website.

via-{ iphonehacks 

iFusion SmartStation Makes iPhone a Desk Phone

The iPhone has many advantages over standard office phones, but one of them isn't comfort. Spending a large portion of your work day on the phone requires a decent desk phone that can be easily held. For those looking to integrate their iPhone with an office phone, AltiGen Communications showed off their iFusion SmartStation at the Macworld Expo.

The dock comes in white or black and instantly converts your iPhone into a standard desk phone. With a built-in USB cable the iPhone can be charged and synced while docked. Bluetooth connects the iPhone and with A2DP streaming iPhone music can be played using the SmartStation speaker.

iFusion SmartStation for iPhone

Of course the SmartStation sports a full duplex speakerphone, and can be used with its own companion PBX app which provides eneterprise level phone management features. The accessory is compatible with the iPhone 3G, iPhone 3GS and iPhone 4. Using a Bluetooth earpiece, VoIP or SIP applications and even FaceTime is possible while docked in the SmartStation. For connection to external speakers there's even a stereo mini jack.

This isn't the first iPhone desk phone dock we've seen. The KEE Desk Phone Dock was announced early last year and will be shipping sometime in the next few months as well.

Besides having all of the features of your iPhone and Contact list available in a more comfortable to use, ergonomic desk phone, the SmartStation should reduce iPhone SAR levels. More distance between your ear and the iPhone antenna means less radiation is absorbed by your noggin.

Turn Your iPhone or iPod Touch Into a Universal Remote

The VooMote converts your iPhone or iPod touch into a universal remote for all your electronic devices including your TV, DVD player, stereo system and so on. It may be a horribly named iPhone accessory, but it sounds like a great gift for people who are always losing their remote controls.

What separates the VooMote from other iPhone universal remote adaptors is the "Room Control" feature. This allows you to set up individual room profiles on the device. For example, you can have a bedroom setting and living room setting to make it easier to turn on your TV without getting confused. The "One View" feature makes switching from device to device easier, allowing you to mute your stereo so you can quickly turn up your TV, or DVD player. This sounds like a great tool for people who like to watch sporting events muted while doing other things. No fumbling with various remotes while trying to catch the latest injury update.

The VooMote captures more than 30,000 infrared codes and comes with a free app for updates to the VooMote One code library. It retails for around $100, and available since August 5th at Zero1.tv and BestBuy.com. The app can be downloaded at the iTunes App Store for free.

You can easily download VooMote application for your iPhone by clicking on below given button

Download VooMote

Smart Car Charger for iPhone

There are so many accessories available now, it is difficult to deal with so many for the iPhone. There are many companies that provide accessories for the iPhone. You will find others that are useful and others that can be left alone. There are lots of iPhone accessories for sale today, this phone has generated a lot of interest. You really have to stay abreast of new technologies if you want to stay informed about iPhone accessories.

Have a good case for your iPhone is very important, and this is an accessory everyone should have. Some people prefer hard shell cases, while others like leather or other durable soft pouches. Ifrogz case is attractive and popular kind of case that is made especially for the iPhone. Your phone is well protected by the shell of this case, which is essential thin and weak, but still durable.

It allows you full access to all phone functions.

Having a good pair of headphones may not be an essential accessory for your iPhone, but if you like to listen to music or watch videos on your phone, this is something you should consider. Apple has its own in-ear headphones designed especially for them. If you want great sound in a small package, these headphones are recommended. 

This accessory comes with accessories of its own, a microphone and a remote control that lets you control your iPod. The silicone ear tips effectively isolate the sound and fit comfortably, allowing you to enjoy what you hear. Bluetooth Stereo Headphones are a great accessory if you want to be able to talk on your phone hands-free and enjoy the best sound quality.

These headphones come with a microphone that is used to answer calls.

Anyone who wants easy access to their iPhone when driving will appreciate the Satechi CR-3600 car holder mount, which can be attached to the dashboard of your car. You maintain access to your functions without having to hold your phone, the cradle does that part for you. The bracket is adjustable so you can keep your phone wherever it is most convenient for you. This is a simple way to talk on the phone hands free while driving. Check with your state first though since some states have banned dashboard mounted items.

The problem of fingerprint harmful iPhone touch screen was annoying since users the benefits of the gadget on the market. If the touch screen is not washed, fingerprints can certainly spoof touchscreen giving an overview negative. Therefore, it is always advisable to clean the iPhone touch screen appropriately. In addition, you can buy a crystal film guard for iphone touch screen in perfect condition. This particular issue is around the touch screen and does not allow fingerprints to be installed on the iPhone screen. 

Astronaut Smartphone Stand

I care a great deal about the happiness of my iPhone. He introduced me to Angry Birds after all, so I've got a lot to thank him for. As such, I wanted to give him somewhere awesome to hang out when I wasn't using him i.e. whilst asleep and incapable of playing Angry Birds. 

As such, I opted for the utterly brilliant Astronaut iPhone Stand which will make my phone feel like a bit of a big-shot because, as we all know, astronauts are better people than you an I. Except, perhaps, that female astronaut who went rogue and try to kidnap a bunch of people or something. 

It would be one small step for my iPhone but one giant leap for my, errrrrrm, sense of self-satisfaction if I were to own this Astronaut iPhone Stand so, NASA, make it so. 

via: thatshouldbemine

Pico-Projector Powered By Android

It might not look like much, but under the hood of the absolutely tiny Epict EPP-100 projector is a fully-fledged Android system that you can quickly throw up on a wall to browse the web, watch YouTube or even play Angry Birds on. Office presentations just got a little more fun!

Measuring up at just under three-inches on each side, the tiny Epict EPP-100 is more than your standard pico-projector. You’ll find the tiny little gizmo packs Android 4.2.2, a dual-core processor paired with 512MB of RAM and 4GB of internal storage. There’s also a microSD slot that supports up to 32GB of extra space for all your movies and photo slideshows that you’ll be throwing onto a huge wall.

Wondering how you’re going to control it? Thanks to its connectivity options spanning USB 2.0, microUSB and Bluetooth, you can hook up your own keyboard and mouse to point and click your way through Android, while there’s also Wi-Fi onboard to get you connected to the web. If you’re interested in taking a tiny Android pico-projector on the road with you, PandaWill has it up for pre-order for $221 (£141) and it’s set to ship at the end of the month.

Do you fancy a tiny Android-powered projector, or would you rather stick with a pico-projector to pair up with your phone? Let us know your thoughts in the comments and check it out in action in the video below.

Smart Accessories For Samsung Galaxy S4

Looking for an additional accessory for your Samsung Galaxy S4? Here is our list of really cool accessories that will protect your device, but also make it more comfortable while playing video games or typing.

S Cover View

This is probably the most interesting accessory for those users that want to protect their new Galaxy S4. This flip cover protects the screen without any need to unlock your phone to see necessary information’s because a small opening at the top allows you to see basic information such as time, date and notifications (number of messages, missed calls, etc..). They are displayed without even having to open the lid and the screen is less busy. S Cover View is available in several colors so you will find the one that you like the most.

Protective Cover +

Samsung Galaxy S4 Protective Cover + is used to protect the back of the smartphone. This rigid shell has a silicone edge. It respects the design end of the smartphone and nicely follows its curves. It is especially useful if you handle your phone a lot, because all connectors and screen remain uncovered. However, it offers no protection to the screen if you drop it for example.

Flip Cover

Flip Cover for the Galaxy S4 does not differ greatly from what Samsung has already proposed to the previous models. Even if you do not have direct access/view to clock or notifications, you can enjoy optimal protection for the screen. Again, Flip Cover stays thin to maintain a stylish look.

Samsung Game Pad

This is a joystick that is dedicated to devices in the Galaxy range. This controller looks more or less than an Xbox 360, with virtually the same keys (two analog paved the arrow keys and the keys A, X, Y, Z with the same colors). This controller is compatible with more than 80 games. Everyone knows that it is often not very easy to enjoy a full game play on a touch screen device, especially if we are talking about FPS game. A fact that many manufacturers are trying to fill and Samsung seems to have found the right accessory to address this problem.

Phone Pad+

Taking the concept of the ASUS PadFone, PhonePad+ go further and is compatible with Android devices although for the moment it is functional with Samsung smartphones namely the Galaxy S2, the Galaxy S3 and Galaxy S4. The work principle is very simple and it requires from user to put its smartphone inside a slot that will connect it with device and then receive a 10.1-inch screen with a resolution of 1024 X 600 pixels. While the resolution is not yet at the top, the difference is barely noticeable especially for the price of $200. The screen can be positioned in different ways for maximum comfort.

Wireless charger

The wireless charging is something we hear about for some time, but the fact that the largest manufacturer of smartphones in the world (Samsung) is using it for its latest high-end device, could finally democratize this technology at the moment. Because Galaxy S4 does not comes with built-in wireless charger, you can buy it as additional accessory that is required to be installed in the rear.

Samsung S Band

The Samsung S Band lets you keep an eye on your heart rate and make sure you’re exercising safely as well as effectively. Not only that, but it connects easily, quickly and wirelessly with the S Health app on your mobile device, so you can conveniently track your exercise record and monitor your progress. It’s also fully adjustable and water-resistant, giving you superior comfort as well as easy cleaning.

All above mentioned accessories and more you can find at this Galaxy S4 online store, so if you are after a new cool gadget or accessory for your Galaxy S4, that’s the store where you will find it.

Samsung Galaxy S4 Zoom SM-C1010

From the Galaxy house a new cellular phone is illuminating and about to come to the horizon soon. Yes we are talking about most awaited Samsung Galaxy S4 Zoom SM-C1010. With all its fascinating features and functions Samsung Galaxy S4 Zoom is almost ready to hit the market and to be in the hands of its lovers. 

You just get ready for it, as it is expected to be late of June 2013. It is Android OS, v4.2.2 (Jelly Bean) supported mobile. Samsung Galaxy S4 Zoom has 16 MP, auto-focus and LED flash based camera; just enjoy the superb camera deal. This mobile is more than a mobile because it is more concerned with high quality camera optics. So now you got 2 in 1 deal, camera plus mobile in single handy device. 

You can do a lot with this beautifully designed mobile, surf the internet, play games, share your data, send picture messages, use social networks, send or receive short service messages, calls, video chat, documentation, I mean what could be there that Samsung Galaxy S4 Zoom SM-C1010 does not posses. 

Samsung Galaxy S4 Zoom SM-C1010 offers you great memory storage capacity. Get the entertainment dose whenever you feel low or want to have fun with Samsung Galaxy S4 Zoom. Play the music either mp3 or mp4. Watch out TV channels at any time and any where. Google Search, Maps, Gmail, YouTube, Calendar, Google Talk and Picasa are the wide variety of applications you can use. 

Samsung Galaxy S4 Zoom is next to S4 mini, though that couldn’t win the hearts, but expectations with Samsung Galaxy S4 Zoom are high. Let’s see what it can do after its sheen availability.

Gadget Review of NAD VISO 1 Wireless Digital Music System

Key Features: 80W output (1x 50W sub, 2x 15W speakers); Direct Digital onboard amplifier; Bluetooth aptX; Locking, rotationing Apple connector; Output audio input, Component video output

Manufacturer: NAD Electronics

NAD VISO 1 Wireless Digital Music System

Hi-Fis are out, docks are in. This may be a sweeping statement, but the addition of yet another high end audio specialist into the sector only adds further proof. For 40 years NAD has been a standout name amongst audiophiles and it has now joined the likes of Bowers & Wilkins, Arcam, Monitor Audio and more by entering the incredibly competitive sector of Apple docks. 

Like its peers NAD has stuck to what it knows best, pitching the 'Viso 1' at the premium end of the market. This approach becomes clear before you switch the dock on. Out of the box it delivers a sense of déjà vu, yet somehow has a look all its own. NAD describes the Viso 1 as a 'ring design', referring to the silver band around it which contains the Apple connector. This is clearly inspired by the Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin Air, but when combined with its tubular shape creates a dock that is stylish in its own right and delightfully different. 

Build quality is similarly impressive, successfully blending the piano black finish of the rear with the matt speaker covering and brushed aluminium ring. NAD takes pleasure in showing how the Viso 1 was put together too with the exposed screw at the top of the ring almost daring us to reach for our screwdrivers. Meanwhile the Apple connector itself has an industrial feel, sliding open to accept the iPhone/iPod before closing back down to hold it securely. This needs to be done as the connector can rotate 90 degrees allowing devices to be used in landscape mode. The genius of the ring design is it allows comfortable use of the device while connected, the sizeable downside is it means an iPad won't fit. 

Connectivity continues this theme and smart hit and bizarre miss. A considerable hit is the addition of component video output which allows 480p and 576p iPhone/iPod videos to be sent to an HDTV while the Viso 1 plays the sound track. There is also an optical digital input which accepts up to 24/96k music from external devices like a TV, disc player or media streamer turning it into a sound bar. Meanwhile a microUSB port is used for updating the firmware. Given this goes beyond the usual array of dock connectivity it is all the more surprising NAD has neglected to include an auxiliary 3.5mm jack. This is by far the most common connector on any music device and will leave non-Apple product owners scratching their heads. 

NAD does have an alternative: aptX. This is a proprietary audio codec which can be licensed and integrated into Bluetooth to offer significantly improved audio quality. What NAD doesn't advertise is aptX requires support not just in the dock, but the source device as well. Happily over 100 products support aptX natively, including the HTC One X, One S, and One V smartphones, Creative Ziio 7 and Samsung Galaxy 7.0/Samsung Galaxy 7.7 Plus tablets, the Motorola RAZR XT910 and even Mac OS X Snow Leopard and above. There are also numerous dongles available. What doesn't support aptX right now is Apple iOS devices which is significant as NAD has somewhat surprisingly (for a high end dock) omitted AirPlay, though it could add support through a software update at any point.

Performance & Bluetooth

So what about the audio? Here NAD brings out the big guns. At the heart of the Viso 1 is the company's top of the line 'Direct Digital' amplifier, the same amp seen in its $6,000 Masters Series M2 DAC. This bypasses the circuitry of the iPhone/iPod and takes their digital signal directly allowing it to process the audio directly. As such the Viso 1 is a bi-amplified system with digital crossover and NAD quotes the frequency response as 33Hz – 28kHz (-6dB), notably wider than the GenevaSound Model M for example. 

As for the speakers themselves NAD has fitted the Viso 1 with a 1in aluminium dome tweeter mounted coaxially in the 2.75in (7cm) midrange drivers plus a 5.75in (15cm) subwoofer. Total output is quoted at 80 watts, 15 per channel to the stereo drivers and 50 watts to the sub. This less than the competition. The B&W's Zeppelin Air and Monitor Audio's i-deck 200 manage 150W and 140W respectively, while the highly portable Arcam rCube still cranks out 90W. That said wattage can mean as much to audio quality as megapixels to photography and the Viso 1 still packs a punch. 

Bass response is what impresses most. NAD's 33Hz response figure is significant as it is a lot lower than both the Zeppelin Air (51Hz) and the i-deck 200 (60Hz) and this is noticeable on particularly bass heavy tracks where detail is retained at low volumes while it holds together without any significant distortion even at maximum volume. Equally worth of praise is the Viso 1's high range which delivers great clarity and rewards listeners of jazz and classical music in particular. 

Flaws? If anything the bass will prove a little heavy for some and on big beat tracks this can overpower the midrange robbing it of depth. For all its bass prowess the Viso 1's 80W output does come into play and it won't fill a large room like the Zeppelin Air or i-deck 200. Meanwhile stereo separation is narrow, obviously so when compared to the 45 degree tilted speakers in the rCube. Another minor irritant is the remote control, while simple and with excellent range, it makes the Viso 1 give a confirmatory beep every time a track is skipped. 

What brings the Viso 1 strongly back into our affections, however, is its implementation of Bluetooth. Granted it may not be the lossless-capable AirPlay, but even without aptX the DAC did a remarkable job of cleaning up the signal making it almost indistinguishable from being docked. Trying it with a aptX-friendly Motorola RAZR the results were astonishing and we'd challenge any audiophile to distinguish it from a wired connection. Non-Apple devices need an answer to AirPlay and for our money this is it, though a great deal of credit must go to the Direct Digital amp. We suspect the future for docks is to include both AirPlay and aptX.

Price & Verdict

All of which brings us to the ugly issue of price. On its own the Viso 1 is a fine dock with superb bass response and a wonderful DAC which performs miracles with its implementation of Bluetooth. It is also beautifully designed and looks good in virtually any setting. 

The problem for NAD is the dock market is well established and full of beautifully designed, superb sounding docks that also do battle on price. At £500 the Viso 1 doesn't get involved in the last of these and, much like the remarkable Libratone Live, this is its biggest downfall. 

Libratone priced itself out of a TrustedReviews Award for pricing the Live at £599, but it did come with AirPlay, a 150W output and some truly unique, if slightly bonkers styling (cashmere wool is a £100 optional extra). The Viso 1 lands itself in the same situation because at £500 it costs as much as the more powerful, equally stylish, AirPlay equipped Zeppelin Air. It costs £150 more than the Arcam rCube which offers proprietary lossless streaming (an iPod dongle is bundled), is portable and has a built in battery. Meanwhile the Viso 1 costs twice as much as the £250 i-deck 200 which, while lacking any form of wireless connectivity, sounds every bit as good.

Consequently, while we welcome NAD to the dock sector with open arms, we are tempted to make the analogy of a great football player joining Barcelona... they become just another good player. 

Verdict

NAD's dock debut will turn heads with its eye catching design and superb bass reproduction. It will also make friends and influence people thanks to a fantastic onboard DAC which transforms its Bluetooth connectivity into a genuine alternative to wired. If you have an aptX enabled device this leaps another level turning it into an AirPlay rival. The problem is, for the price, the Viso 1 should have AirPlay as well. It should also be louder, fit an iPad and certainly find space for a 3.5mm auxiliary jack. Its rivals do and often for a lot less.

[source: trustedreviews]

Handyscope Scanner that Checks For Skin Cancer

I just love it when technology is being used for good. Often technology is used in medicine, and technology has been making leaps and bounds in the past few years in the field of medicine. But it’s not as often that we see medical technology that can be used by anyone. Well that’s just what’s happening with the new Handyscope skin scanner.

The device is being developed by researchers in Queensland, and it aims to eliminate the need for all the waiting involved with checking your skin for skin cancer. Normally, the process would involve making an appointment with a dermatologist, and then waiting for the results to come back. 

Now, using the Handyscope scanner, you can simply take a photo of the suspect area on your skin, and send it off to your doctor, who can look it over to see if the area could be a threat. The scanner also aims to improve early detection rates of skin cancer.

Skin cancer is extremely common. In fact, 1 in 5 Americans develop a form of skin cancer over their lifetime, and skin cancer is responsible for thousands of deaths every year. That’s what the Handyscope aims to change. If the cancer is detected at an earlier stage, then it’s much more likely to be able to be treated, which in turn could potentially save that persons life.

The Handyscope is currently only used for the iPhone 5 – it’s a slide on attachment that includes a special camera that can take extremely clear and close up images of your skin. The device is also great for recovering skin cancer patients who would have to see their doctor regularly, and could eliminate the need to schedule an appointment as often.

The Handyscope is a step in the right direction, and could be an extremely convenient and effective tool against skin cancer.

Black Hole Cell Phone - A Future Gadget

Technology is developing at an enormous speed and you never know what's next to come, say, for example, in 2020. But there are people who can visualize what the future would look like and what devices we might get soon.

One of those who like to contemplate about the future of technology is French designer Josselin Zaigouche who decided to design this incredible gadget, dubbed Apple Black Hole (and it's not because it will such Apple down if it hits the market). The name was probably inspired by the numerous applications one can find in Apple's device (such as iPhone and iPad).

The futuristic device uses holographic technology to help the user navigate through a myriad of programs. The device comes with a charging base, Prism and the Black Hole. 

Here's a short tutorial on the gadget: after opening your hand, the ball in the middle of the device starts levitating, allowing you to control different applications in mid-air. If you attach the gadget to the recharging base it automatically turns into a desktop device, which is really cool. Let's hope such technology will be available in the near future and hopefully it will be eco-friendly as well.

The iPhone Photo Printer

This is the compact, portable printer that produces photo quality pictures directly from a docked iPhone 4 or iPod touch. Also connecting to iPhone 5, Android phones, and iPads (using your existing Lightning, Micro-USB, or iPad cable), the printer requires no computer or software, and is controlled from your device via a free downloadable app.

In less than 59 seconds and without ink cartridges, it prints crystal-clear 300 dpi resolution pictures with vibrant colors, thanks to patented paper embedded with yellow, magenta, and cyan dye crystals. The printer can produce one, four, or 10 smudge- and tear-proof, fade- and water-resistant images on each 4" x 6" border-less sheet. 

It prints panoramic shots from a connected iPhone 5 and prints from Pict Bridge-capabale digital cameras. It also charges an iPhone 4, iPad, or iPod touch via the built-in 30-pin connector. Includes one thermal paper cartridge that makes 12 prints. Plugs into AC. 4" H x 7" W x 6" D. (3 lbs.)