Consumer Electronics Daily News

Store your Smartphone: SmartWatch from Sony Brings Android Power Straight to Wrist

Sony Mobile Communications announces the availability of its new SmartWatch, a wearable device that extends the power of Android smartphones by sending timely and personal information from your smartphone straight to your wrist. A vibration and screen alert notifies you of key events, like an incoming call.  It also allows you to read texts and emails as well as receive Facebook™ and Twitter™ updates – all from your wrist.

SmartWatch from Sony connects to Android smartphones via Bluetooth™ giving you the ability to control key functions without removing your smartphone from your pocket or bag. With just a tap, touch, and swipe, SmartWatch turns from a watch displaying the time to a remote information center for your Android smartphone.

A growing number of apps are available for download through Google Play – including those for social updates, workouts and music – all customized for the 1.3-inch OLED SmartWatch touch screen. While SmartWatch works with these existing apps, Android developers can create apps specifically for the device.  SmartWatch works with most Android (2.1 and above) smartphones.

"SmartWatch is the first of many Smart Extras that seamlessly connect and expand the smartphone's reach and user experience," said Paul Hamnett, President and Head of Customer Unit, North America, Sony Mobile Communications. "Designed to break free from the single screen experience, SmartWatch provides access to live content and entertainment on the go."

The durable SmartWatch is dust proof and splash proof and comes with a black rubber wristband included in the box. Wristbands in five additional colors are available for purchase.  SmartWatch's design includes a rear mounted clip, so it can be removed from the wristband and attached to clothing or a belt.

At launch, SmartWatch has a suggested retail price of $149.99 and will be available at http://www.sony.com/smartwatch and Sony stores. SmartWatch availability at additional retailers will be announced soon.

SmartWatch is part of Sony Mobile Communications' strategy to create Smart Extras that make Android smartphones smarter.

Key Features of Sony Xperia™ SmartWatch:

• Dimensions: 1.42 X 1.42 X 0.3 in
• Weight: 0.55 oz
• Display: 1.3" OLED display, 128 x 128 pixels
• Compatibility: Bluetooth™ 3.0 and Android™ 2.1 or above
• Connectivity: Standard USB charging
• Battery life: Up to 4 days
• Language support for: English, Spanish, French, Chinese (Traditional), Portuguese, Swedish, Russian, Danish, Polish, Japanese, Czech, German, Modern Greek, Dutch
• Notifications: Display notification or vibration
• Apps: All events (displays in chronological order), Messaging  (SMS/MMS), corporate E-mail (for Sony™ and Sony Ericsson Android phones), Gmail (for all other Android smartphones) Calendar Notifications, Facebook™, Twitter™, Music Player, Call handling (call, mute, reject, or answer and send pre-defined SMS), Pre-defined SMS, e.g. missed calls – I'm busy, messaging - call me, email – ok, Battery strength, Find phone, and Weather widget. Plus lots of apps on Android™ market.
• Additional SmartWatch bands available in pink, white, mint, grey and blue

For full details on all products news, please visit the press room and the product blog: http://blogs.sonymobile.com/products. For full Android smartphone compatibility, please visit http://sonymobile.com/smartwatch.

Detached Kickstarts JuiceTank, the First Case with an Integrated Wall Charger for iPhone

Detached, an entrepreneurial tech company specializing in iPhone charging accessories, today announces that the JuiceTank is in the final stages of development and will begin tooling ahead of schedule.  The first case to feature a built-in plug for wall charging, the JuiceTank is designed to provide protection and charging capabilities for iPhone 4/4S with pre-orders available for the next generation iPhone. Detached is also seeking funding on the crowd-funding site Kickstarter to support the process of bringing this innovative product to market.

The unique case features an automated plug that deploys quickly and easily when your phone needs more juice.  When not in use, the plug folds flat to keep the case portable and comfortable in a pocket, purse, or luggage. Built for durability, the polycarbonate case protects the Apple iPhone from wear and tear, delivering functional style as well as a practical charging solution. Users can abandon their cords and chargers and rely entirely on their case.

Detached recently launched the JuiceTank on Kickstarter, the popular collective fundraising site that allows everyday consumers to support products they want to see come to market. CNET characterized the case as, "a product that's so common sense it seems like it should have been invented years ago."

Products that reach their pledge goal on Kickstarter use the funds to support production and packaging efforts. Those that are unsuccessful do not receive any of the funds. Should Detached reach their goal, they will not receive pledge funds until well after the campaign ends this May. To bridge this timing gap and meet popular demand, Detached is getting started early. The company is working with factories and will begin tooling to ensure donors receive their cases quickly.

"We started out as two guys with a vision for the perfect case, and now we have the interim capital to make JuiceTank a reality," explains Detached co-founder Jesse Pliner. "We want to get the JuiceTank case in the hands of our Kickstarter donors as soon as possible, so we're getting started while we are still in the fundraising stage."

Since launching the campaign, Detached announced the addition of a sleek white version. Contributors to the online campaign can also select a JuiceTank for the next generation iPhone, expected this summer or early fall. When the next generation specifications are released, the company will immediately design a JuiceTank for it and deliver it to those who pre-ordered.

The case is expected to retail for $70, but early adopters can purchase one of the first cases directly from Kickstarter for $55. Those that pre-order during the campaign will receive their cases before JuiceTank is available from retailers this summer.

For more information about the JuiceTank, additional photos and a demonstration video, please visit Detached's Kickstarter page or www.getdetached.com.  Connect with Detached on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/getdetached. Detached's entrepreneurial founders are available for interviews.

New Apple Accessory Could Mean the End of Misplacing Your iPhone

Domark International Inc. disclosed today that the Company’s new wholly-owned Solawerks subsidiary’s product named the “Solacase” is now available for immediate purchase in glow in the dark colors directly on the Company’s website. For many, this could mean just waiting for it to get dark to find your misplaced iPhone. The newest constant-charging product, named the “Solacase” fits all versions of the Apple iPhone. Similar to the Company’s new “Solapad” for iPad and “Solafire” for Amazon’s Kindle Fire, new the Solacase contains a large, high-efficiency solar panel on its back, plus an additional internal battery to keep the iPhone charged at all times.

The Solacase is the only product of its kind that fits all iPhone versions, including the new iPhone 4 and iPhone 4S.

What is even better is that you can purchase your new Solacase in a wide variety of colors, including the new “glow in the dark” versions, right on the newly expanded Solawerks Company e-commerce website at www.solawerks.com/products.html

Chrysler Group LLC Introduces Industry-first In-vehicle Wireless Charging

Look mom, no wires.

After being the first to eliminate heavy, bulky owner manuals from its vehicles, Chrysler Group LLC, through its Mopar® division, will now be the first to eliminate unsightly dangling power cords in its vehicles by offering in-vehicle wireless charging.

The company will first make the technology available on the all-new 2013 Dodge Dart that arrives in dealerships in the second quarter of this year.

"At Mopar, we look for every single opportunity to make our customers' lives easier," said Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO of Mopar, Chrysler Group LLC's service, parts and customer-care brand. "Our industry-first in-vehicle wireless charging system is the perfect solution for those connected customers who are always on the go."

For easy access, a seamlessly integrated power bin, measuring 8.27 inches by 9.5 inches by 3.25 inches, is installed just below the center stack and in front of the center console. The bin has a built-in charging grid that is activated when customers place in their battery-powered device. The unit begins to charge when the vehicle is started. A phone case, specifically designed for a variety of smartphones, is required and included with the feature.

Mopar in-vehicle wireless charging is available for $199.99, plus installation (part number 82213216).

WD® Gives Mac Users the First 2 TB Portable Hard Drive for All Their Digital Content

Western Digital® today introduced the first 2 TB capacity portable drive dedicated for Mac® customers, My Passport® Studio™. This new standard in high storage capacity, along with Apple® Time Machine® compatibility for quick and easy automatic backup of Mac hard drives, allows Mac users to use one drive for the protection and transport of virtually all their digital content, everywhere they go. The new My Passport Studio portable drive maintains its elegant and protective all-metal casing to complement the MacBook® Pro or MacBook® Air®, providing the beautiful aesthetic that Mac users expect while increasing storage capacity to 2 TB, enough space for approximately 400,000 photos, 240 hours of video or 500,000 songs(1).

In addition to the USB 2.0 interface, My Passport Studio's two high performance FireWire® 800 ports, makes it perfect for active and mobile creative professionals including photographers, videographers, graphic artists, and others who need the speed, capacity, and flexibility to access content anytime or anywhere. The dual FireWire ports provide blazing fast upload and transfer speeds while also allowing users to daisy chain additional drives or other peripherals such as HD camcorders. My Passport Studio also features hardware-based encryption and password protection software, and an all-metal design constructed for a sturdy feel in your hand and scratch resistance.

"The My Passport Studio is a perfect companion for the MacBook Pro and for creative professionals on the go," explains Jody Bradshaw, senior director and general manager of WD's consumer storage products group. "For those who create large content files such as photographers and videographers, they will now be able to carry it with them wherever they go, as well as create a backup copy of everything they produce without fear of running out of additional storage while on location."

Pricing and Availability

WD's My Passport Studio 2 TB portable hard drive is available on the WD store at www.wdstore.com and at select retailers and distributors. The My Passport Studio 2 TB has an MSRP of $299.99. For more information on the My Passport Studio portable hard drive please visit the WD website at http://wdc.com/en/products/products.aspx?id=420.

(1) Examples of the number of photos, songs, videos and any other files that can be stored on a hard drive are provided for illustrative purposes only. Your results will vary based on file size and format, settings, features, software and other factors.

Modzlab Introduces Modded Controller for Halo Reach Gamers

Ever since it was first released to the public, Halo has been a favorite among hard core gamers and casual players alike. Over the years, the appeal and scope of this classic video game has continued to grow, with millions of people around the world enjoying the ultimate in game play.

From full-scale Halo tournaments to friendly game play among close companions, this is a game that can be enjoyed and played by those of all ages and abilities. But for many hard core gamers, the controllers that came with their game systems simply do not provide the proper level of control and fun.

That is why Modzlab is so proud of its new line of modded controllers designed specifically for Halo Reach gamers. Modzlab is the leader in the field of modded controllers, and the company understands what gamers want and need. Halo gamers have consistently demanded more from their game play, and Modzlab is happy to provide those serious gamers with exactly what they have been looking for all those years.

These great new modded Halo Reach controllers come in a wide variety of add-ons, so there is sure to be one that will fit the needs of every Halo enthusiast. Hard core gamers can choose from standard, glossy, flat jacket or hydro dipped modded controllers from Modzlab.

Gamers and Halo Reach enthusiasts that want to replace the plain controllers that came with their Xbox 360 game systems can choose the standard model from Modzlab. This controller has the classic good looks and style of the original, but with the added level of control serious gamers need to get more out of every session.

Those who want a little more can choose one of the glossy Xbox 360 modded controllers designed specifically for Halo Reach. These controllers are designed to be much more attractive than the original ones that come with the Xbox 360. These shiny controllers will stand out in any room, whether you are playing a casual game with friends or competing for cash and prizes at a Halo Reach tournament. The new Modzlab line of glossy controllers is available in a number of different colors, from the classic good looks of black and white to stylish red and blue models.

Halo Reach players who want a unique look can choose from one of the Xbox 360 controllers in the flat jacket line. This line of camoflauge Xbox 360 controllers is designed specifically for Halo Reach players, and they are available in a number of stylish colors suitable for any gaming enthusiast.

Last but not least, Modzlab is proud to introduce its line of hydro dipped Xbox 360 controllers. These controllers are available in a wide range of colors and styles, from black splatter and red splatter to blue drop, skulls and the classic good looks of carbon fiber. With so many styles and colors to choose from, every Halo Reach enthusiast is sure to find his or her favorite.

The Modzlab line of Halo Reach Xbox 360 controllers represents a new step forward in the world of gaming. Gamers who long for a more refined and stylish look can find exactly what they are looking for simply by shopping with Modzlab.

Revolutionary USB Hub Provides “Universal” Charging for iPads, Tablets and Smart Phones

For the first time, there is a truly universal USB charging device that not only provides optimal charging for iPads, tablets and smart phones, but can be updated as new devices become available.

Charging large numbers of different devices is a significant challenge for schools, hospitals, businesses and others and the idea of a universal charger has long been elusive because of the variety of configurations using USB.

With an exciting new technology from Cambrionix – a leader in USB technology solutions -- Datamation Systems offers this as the latest addition to its extensive suite of charge, sync, security and storage products for iPads, iPods, iPhones, Android/Windows tablets and other devices.

This professional USB charging station identifies the correct charge profile for each connected device drawing on its library of charging configurations. The library can be updated in the field as supported configurations are added, making it “future-proof.”

“Using the right charging profile helps maintain battery performance and extend the life of your device,” said Joe Mazza, Datamation Systems’ Vice President. “Trade shows, conference centers and tech centers have been asking for this for a long time.”

Datamation Systems will be introducing several versions of this new technology: a charge-only hub (DS-IP-8-UC), a version that charges and syncs communication to each USB port (DS-IP-8-USC), and a larger 16-port configuration. These can be daisy-chained for even larger arrays. They will work as standalone devices or be incorporated into its transport cases, cabinets and carts. The hubs can also be built into kiosks, lockers and other applications. Datamation Systems is happy to provide components to OEMs looking at these applications.

Datamation Systems solutions are used in thousands of schools, libraries, hospitals and offices.

These new charging systems and other products will be available from resellers or directly from Datamation Systems. Additional information can be found at Datamation’s iPad and Tablet webpage.

ButtKicker Gamer2 Adds Engine-Feeling to Simulators, Drives Worldwide Market 2011 Unit Sales of Gamer2

The Guitammer Company (OTC BB: GTMM), a leader in low frequency sound and developer of the revolutionary, award-winning line of ButtKicker® brand low frequency audio transducers announced today that it has begun shipping the orders for more than 1,300 units of its flagship gaming product, the ButtKicker Gamer2.

ButtKicker Gamer2 unit sales in 2011 were almost twice (198%) the number of unit sales in 2009, and 30% more than in 2010. Based upon the number of orders already in-house and the growing back-order list, the company expects Gamer2 sales in 2012 to surpass 2011 levels.

The Gamer has become the number one choice for simulation enthusiasts and professionals worldwide. The ButtKicker Gamer2 is used in conjunction with racing and flight simulators to add the feeling of engine throttle, gear shifts, crashes and road-noise. Used by professional racing drivers, home racing and flight simulators have exploded in popularity over the last 5 years. According to a 2011 internal survey of ButtKicker Gamer2 owners, 85% use the product for either racing or flight simulation.

"ButtKicker products allow us to convey all of the finite tactile details a race car driver feels in the real car," says Chris Considine of CXC Simulations, a maker of professional racing simulators. "We only use the best components on our simulators.  Our choice of ButtKicker products was no accident.  We have tried every other product in the same class and the decision was easy.  Our clients demand no less from us."

"ButtKicker [Guitammer] pioneered the all inclusive gaming 'package' that continues to be the benchmark and is synonymous within this burgeoning market. Add to this the expanding trend for simulators (for both professional and consumer use) in a number of strategic areas, and the versatility of the product range becomes clear," says Mike U'Dell, president of Network Music, Guitammer's distributor for Great Britain.

Reports of Fragile Apple iPad Design Could Be Helped by Hot New Solapad Accessory

According to iPad sales warranty company SquareTrade, the new Apple iPad is most likely as fragile as its predecessor iPad 2.

"It seems like the iPad 2 and the new iPad break in the same fashion," said Vince Tseng, SquareTrade's vice president of marketing. "The form factor of the new iPad is almost identical to the iPad 2."

SquareTrade ran an unscientific drop test where workers dropped both iPad 2’s and new iPads from waist and shoulder height, glass up and glass down, onto a hard, flat surface. Both tablet models survived the face up falls, but their glass overlays shattered when dropped face down. Damage to the new iPad's screen, however, seemed more significant; in one case, the display nearly separated from the case.

The hot new Solapad iPad accessory, developed and distributed by Solawerks, Inc. (a wholly-owned subsidiary of Domark International, Inc.) could be a big help in preventing damage to the iPad if dropped. The way the Solapad is designed, it is somewhat impossible to drop the iPad and have it hit flat on the screen, due to the shape of the Solapad. Furthermore, if dropped on any other side, the iPad is less subject to damage as the Solapad case material itself will absorb some of the shock. Solawerks, Inc. management is also working on developing a Solapad version to be made out of hard rubber for rugged conditions.

The new Solawerks Solapad is an electronic sleeve manufactured specifically for all versions of the Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL) iPad. The Solapad contains a large, high-efficiency solar panel on its back, plus an additional internal battery to keep the iPad charged at all times. Future versions of the Solapad are being engineered to incorporate other items and capabilities that are designed to make a customer’s iPad much more powerful and functional.

The Company believes the popularity of the hot new iPad accessory is partially driven by Apple’s record sales of the new version of the iPad that some are calling the iPad 3.

More details about the new Solawerks Solapad can be seen at www.solawerks.com

Philips Norelco Launches New PowerTouch Shavers for Guys Who Want a Quick and Easy Morning Shave

Philips Norelco, the world's #1 electric razor brand, knows what guys want – a quick, effortless morning shave that will get them out the door and looking great. Its innovative new line of PowerTouch shavers delivers just that, with the added versatility of shaving wet or dry. No frills. Just a great shave.

For decades, Philips Norelco has engineered game-changing electric grooming products that fit the needs of the everyday American man. The new PowerTouch and PowerTouch with Aquatec use patented technology to deliver a skin-friendly shave that's guaranteed to help guys put their best face forward – from day to night.

"The reality is that 9 out of 10 men now use grooming products of some kind*," said Kristi Crump, Marketing Director, Personal Care at Philips Consumer Lifestyle. "Philips Norelco's PowerTouch shavers are designed for the guy who is looking for a quick and convenient way to improve his daily shaving experience – wet or dry."

PowerTouch combines the best of Philips Norelco's classic shavers, with improved functionality and a better looking design and feel. The entire range allows for quick and easy cleaning under a running tap and includes long lasting Lithium ION power. The unique blade system helps to lift hairs away from the skin before cutting them below skin level for a comfortably close shave.

The Philips Norelco PowerTouch with Aquatec features rounded low-friction heads that automatically adjust to help minimize skin irritation and a SmartPivot system that provides expert contouring.  With wet and dry technology, men can get a reliably close shave however they prefer – with gel or foam for extra skin protection, or dry for added convenience.

Philips Norelco PowerTouch and PowerTouch with Aquatec are available now at Walmart, Target, Best Buy, Amazon.com and other national retailers for $49.00 - $89.00. For more information, please visit www.facebook.com/philipsnorelco.

* The NPD Group, Men's Grooming Consumer Report (2011)