For sure, one thing can be said about gadget lovers: they’re always looking towards what new gadgets and technologies lie ahead. They’re always searching for something unique, thinner, sleeker, faster… and more bizarre. And, now that we’re about ready to bring 2008 to a close, manufacturers are beginning to unveil some of the cool gadgets we can look forward to seeing in 2009.
T-Mobile, Motorola, Using Android OS On Mobile Phones
More advanced gadget lovers who thrive on virtual social interaction will appreciate the new Android Operating System adopted by T-Mobile earlier this year. And now, Motorola may incorporate it into their mobile phones in the upcoming year, too.
According to an excerpt from BusinessWeek, the idea behind Motorola evolving to the new Google-backed operating system is to make their phones part of a new class of smartphones, which enable users to access social networks like Facebook and MySpace.
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Napkin PC
It is said that many a great idea was born on a napkin. So, Industrial Designer Avery Holleman developed the Napkin PC. The Napkin PC is a cool concept that uses a base station – disguised as a napkin holder – with seven different stylus pens that allow multiple users to scribble their ideas down on individual “napkins” that ultimately interface with the base station.
It’s an idea with creative types and businessmen thinking “outside the box.” The concept allows users not to limit their creativity in front of a PC screen. The “napkins” employ full-color e-paper and multi-touch technology.
The napkins can hold the image drawn on them indefinitely or until the user clears it off. You can hang it up or share it with your coworkers at your next meeting. The Napkin PC took first place in the Judge’s and Chairman’s awards in NextGen’s PC Design Competition.
Nokia Aeon
The Nokia Aeon cell phone is still in the research and development phase of its life, but gadget junkies worldwide are already “wowing” by the full touch screen. Nokia is keeping all other details under wraps due to competitive pressure.
B-Membrane Computer
We may not see the B-Membrane concept computer for some time, but it’s worth mentioning, just in case. The B-membrane computer is a unique take on a laptop/desktop computer.
Korean designer Won-Seok Lee created his B-membrane computer to look like no other. Indeed, it is about the size of a large round platter and boasts an omnidirectional projector rather than a monitor. A keyboard appears on the membrane of the computer’s surface when needed.
When not being used as a computer, Lee’s design can create a relaxing ambiance utilizing a variety of light effects through its projector.
Microsoft Arc Mouse
The Microsoft Arc Mouse is a handy little device that serves as both a desktop mouse and a laptop mouse, depending upon whether you have it extended to its full length or folded. The mouse uses Microsoft’s BlueTrack Laser Technology and has a wireless range of up to 30 feet. It offers four customizable buttons, Tilt Wheel Technology, and comes in red or black.
This is a neat, money-saving concept. You can purchase this from Microsoft for $59.95.
Asus EEE Notebook With Touch Screen
The Asus EEE notebook computer is an awesome gadget for college students or business travelers who need to access basic computer programs such as Microsoft Word, Excel, or PowerPoint. You know, it’s rather like an electronic notebook of sorts. Its small profile is not much bigger than a regular book and can easily slip into your purse or briefcase. But what’s cool about this gadget is the manufacturer offers a touch screen option with this computer. While it comes with a stylus, many users find it perfectly comfortable simply using their fingers to move pages and open programs.
Asus has also released a more powerful desktop version of its EEE computer with touchscreen capabilities. Check out the Asus EEE PC now.
Schwinn Electric Tailwind Bicycle
In these tough economic times, when everyone is searching for cheaper ways to commute, the Schwinn Electric Tailwind Bicycle is expected to hit the market in early 2009. While it resembles a traditional bicycle, the Schwinn Electric Tailwind, dubbed e-bike, packs much more punch. Essentially, Schwinn joined forces with Toshiba to create a hybrid bike.
Schwinn uses a Toshiba Super Charge lithium-ion phosphate battery to help propel this bike down the road, allowing you to pedal yourself or offering you adjustable pedal assistance if needed. Toshiba’s battery charges in just 30 minutes and can be recharged about 3000 times before it needs to be replaced. The battery slips discretely in the luggage rack, and off you go.
Visit Schwinn Tailwind to look at this cool set of wheels. You’ll be able to get yours for about $3,200.
Test Tube Hamburger
And, while this next item is not a gadget you can put your hands on, it seems that it may be something you’ll be able to sink your teeth into in the upcoming year. Back in 2006, stories were circulating about the test-tube hamburger. Yep, scientists believed they could make enough fake meat from one stem cell to feed a million people for one year. Their goal was to have it on people’s tables by 2009.
People for The Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) and fellow vegetarians, of course, are thrilled with the prospect of the lives of thousands of cows being spared by this in vitro beef. PETA is said to have offered a $1 million reward to the first scientist to produce and market in vitro meat.
