Top 10 3-D Products

Propelled by the success of Avatar and other 3-D films, a steady stream of consumer 3-D gadgets has launched over the past year. Experts, however, warn that 3-D technologies vary by device, and not all are ready for mainstream use. Read on for a rundown of what works and what doesn't when it comes to 3-D.

 

Televisions

Pros: Plenty of choice, big brand support

Cons: Lack of 3-D content, high price

Available products: Multiple models from LG, Philips, Samsung, Sharp, Sony, Panasonic, Toshiba and others

Game Consoles

Pros: Gaming well-suited to 3-D

Cons: Requires a 3-D TV and 3-D glasses to play

Available products: Microsoft Xbox 360, Sony PlayStation 3, Nintendo 3-DS (February/March 2011)

Blu-ray Players

Pros: Main way to view 3-D DVDs on TVs

Cons: Gamers may prefer multipurpose consoles like Sony's PS3

Available products: Multiple models from LG, Panasonic, Samsung, Sharp and others

Desktop PCs

Pros: Ideal for 3-D gaming, due to processing power and display size

Cons: More expensive than regular PCs

Available products: Multiple models from Acer, Asus, Dell, Fujitsu, MSI, NEC, Toshiba and others.

Notebooks and Netbooks

Pros: Portable way to enjoy 3-D games

Cons: Desktop PCs better suited to 3-D gaming

Available products: Multiple models from Acer, Asus,Dell, HP, Lenovo, LG, Toshiba and others.

Glasses

Pros: A necessity for viewing 3-D on any large device; some models compatible with multiple TV manufacturers

Cons: Price: $100-$150 a pair; (dis)comfort factor

Available products: Multiple models from Oakley, Vuzix, Xpand and others.

Cameras

Pros: Novelty

Cons: 3-D photos only viewable on the camera or on a 3-D TV

Available products: Fujifilm FinePix REAL 3-D W3, Sony Cybershot TX9

Camcorders

Pros: Novelty

Cons: Limited ways to view the 3-D video produced; pricier than regular camcorders

Available products: Panasonic HDC-SDT750, BenQ device (mid-2011)

Cellphones

Pros: Novelty

Cons: Requires special chips, not widely available in many countries

Available products: Sharp LYNX 3-D SH-03C (Japan only), Spice Mobility M-67 3-D (India only)

Digital Photo Frames

Pros: Novelty

Cons: Limited market; requires use of Nikon's online image sharing and storage service

Available products: Nikon NF-300i (Japan only)

Choosing The Right Tablet For You

Tablets may be the world's hottest gadget right now, with everyone from PC makers to cellphone manufacturers, monitor suppliers and booksellers racing to release a version of these portable, touch-screen computers. Many of these tablets will debut in 2011. Here's a look at the models that have already been announced. 

Apple iPad

Size: 9.7-inch screen, 1.5 pounds
Operating system: Apple's iOS
Launch date: April 2010
Price: $499 to $829, depending on memory and connectivity

Apple's iPad is far from the first tablet computer to have launched, but like many Apple products, it has redefined its category and quickly become the market leader. People are already eagerly awaiting the next iPad, which many believe will incorporate some wished-for elements, such as a camera and higher-resolution display. 

Samsung Galaxy Tab

Size: 7-inch screen, approximately 0.8 pounds
Operating system: Google's Android (2.2)
Launch date: November 2010
Price: $400 to $600, depending on carrier and data plan

Perhaps the most appealing alternative to an iPad this holiday season will be Samsung's Galaxy Tab. Like the company's Galaxy S smartphone line, the Galaxy Tab utilizes Samsung's advanced display and processor technology and will be sold through multiple operators. Samsung plans to introduce more tablets in different sizes next year.

Dell Streak

Size: 5-inch screen, 7.8 ounces
Operating system: Google's Android (1.6 but upgradeable to 2.2)
Launch date: August 2010
Price: $300 with a two-year service plan, $550 without

Despite some skepticism over the Dell Streak's qualifications as a tablet (because it is so small), the PC maker is marketing the 5-inch device as such, under the description "pocket tablet." The company intends to launch larger tablets next year. 

Archos Series

Size: 2.8-inch to 10.1-inch screen and up to 1 pound, depending on model
Operating system: Google's Android (1.5 or 2.2, depending on model)
Launch date: Summer-Fall 2010; November 2010 for 10-inch version
Price: $100 to $350, depending on size and memory

Archos may be the world's most prolific tablet maker. The French company was one of the first to come out with a tablet powered by Google's Android mobile platform, in 2009. This year, it added seven more models, including two designed to be stationed and used at home.

Barnes & Noble Nook Color

Size: 7-inch screen, approximately 1 pound
Operating system: Google's Android (2.1)
Launch date: mid-November 2010
Price: $249

Though technically an e-reader, Barnes & Noble's newest Nook boasts enough other features, including a full-color, 7-inch touch-screen, a Web browser and Android software that it could also qualify as a tablet. There's one catch, however: users will only have access to a selection of Android applications, rather than the full app store. 

Toshiba Folio 100

 Size: 10.1-inch screen, 1.7 pounds
Operating system: Google's Android (2.2)
Launch date: November 2010
Price: $563

Toshiba is another member of the Android camp. The PC maker built its own mobile applications and digital music store for the Folio which, at 10 inches, is larger than most Android tablets. The device is currently only available outside the U.S.; it launched outside the U.S. in early November.

BlackBerry PlayBook

 Size: 7-inch screen, approximately 0.9 pounds
Operating system: BlackBerry Tablet OS
Launch date: Early 2011
Price: Not available

One of the most highly anticipated tablets for 2011 is Research in Motion's BlackBerry PlayBook. RIM is keeping several key details under wraps, including price and exact launch date, but has started recruiting developers to make PlayBook apps. 

HP Slate 500

Size: 8.9-inch screen, 1.5 pounds
Operating system: Microsoft's Windows 7
Launch date: October 2010
Price: $799

Leave it to HP, the world's largest PC maker, to offer a business-focused tablet that runs Microsoft's Windows operating system. Reviews so far have been lukewarm. Consumers looking for HP tablets based on Palm's webOS platform will have to wait until next year.

Cell Phones from Car Brands

Continuing the theme of cooperation car brands with various industrial companies we want to show you ultimate collection of beautiful cell phones. Featured below phones are result of hard work of designers of luxury car brands and well-known mobile companies. Apart of using expensive materials these cell phones have interesting design and some additional non-standart options. 

  

The name Porsche stands for exclusivity and stylish design. In collaboration with Sagem Porsche Design launched two luxury phones of different form factors. The first model P9521 is a clam shel phone selling at around 1200 euro. Their second phone P9522 is a full touch screen in candy bar form factor selling at around 600 euro, half of its first phone. Perhaps, these phones aren’t full of latest innovations but their main feature is exceptionally stylish design.

Porsche Design P’9521

 

Porsche Design P’9522

 

We’ve been already written about this cell phone from Acer and Ferrari based on Liquid E – Liquid E Ferrari Special Edition. Special edition features a bright red corp with the familiar shield of Ferrari, surrounded by a strip of carbon fiber; a microphone, designed in the style of the air intake of "Formula 1" car, as well as special screensavers, wallpapers and ringtones.

 

Liquid E Ferrari Special Edition

 

To commemorate Ferrari’s 60th Anniversary luxury phone brand Vertu has launched in 2007 a new model – Vertu Ascent Ferrari 1947 Limited Edition. Inspired by Ferrari GT cars this cell phone is encased in red and black Ferrari leather with black lacquer stripes running at the sides and was limited to 1,947 pieces. After a few months Vertu released another model – Ascent Ferrari 60. This phone features a shift gate on its posterior instead of a brake pedal on the previous model and costs $25K.

 

Ascent Ferrari 1947 Limited Edition

 

Ascent Ferrari 60

 

McLaren Mercedes in collaboration with Vodafone created a series of beautiful cell phones. Created specifically for the Formula 1 2007 Season these models uses McLaren colors of red, silver and black, and the front is imprinted with “Vodafone McLaren Mercedes”. The first two models are represented by Sharp, the last one – Samsung.

 

The Vodafone McLaren Mercedes 770SH

 

The Vodafone McLaren Mercedes GX29

 

The Vodafone McLaren Mercedes SGH-Z720M

 

In 2006 Aston Martin and Nokia have announced the Nokia 8800 Aston Martin Edition. This esclusive iteration of the Nokia 8800 were manufactured in strictly limited numbers and featured laser-etched "Aston Martin" logo on the stainless steel casing.

 

Nokia 8800 Aston Martin Limited Edition

 

Launched in 2008 and having all specifications and functions as the original Z8 cell phone Motorola Z8 Ferrari Limited Edition comes in a red and color layout and a Ferrari logo. In addition to special design Z8 Ferrari comes bundled with two Ferrari video clips, pre-registration to the official Ferrari website, Ferrari mobile content and direct links to the popular online magazines like Top Gear, Auto Express, GQ, Esquire and Autosport.

 

Motorola Z8 Ferrari Limited Edition

 

This luxury phone were announced by TAG Heuer at the end of 2009 and comes with Lamborghini model that looks elegant as a phone. The TAG Heuer Meridiist Lamborghini mobile phone features a case made from a combination of hand brushed stainless steel, calfskin leather, and 60.5 carats of sapphire crystal glass on its dual display screens. It’s available in a limited edition of 1963 – as tribute to the year Lamborghini was founded – and costs £5,750.

 

TAG Heuer Meridiist Automobili Lamborghini

 

Launched in 2007 ASUS P526 Mercedes-Benz Limited Edition smartphone has Mercedes-Benz logo on the body casing, built-in Mercedes-Benz start and shutdown logo and exists in only 699 copies. Only 399 pieces came with specially designed Mercedes-Benz gift box with a genuine leather case inside.

 

ASUS P526 Mercedes-Benz Limited Edition Windows Mobile Smartphone

 

Hummer HT1 was designed by French design company Modelabs in 2007 and features only Hummer branding on it. This phone has ordinary options as for a cell phone and comes in a variety of colors – ranging from yellow to camouflage.

 

The Hummer HT1

 

In 2008 Nissan announced the development of the world’s first Mobile Phone with built-in Intelligent Key. Nissan’s Intelligent Key system employs two-way wireless communications technology to automatically unlock/lock the car door and start/stop the engine. Nissan and Sharp has now integrated these electronic intelligent-key, wireless communications and electromagnetic technologies into the new handset. The Mobile Phone with Built-in Intelligent Key is still in prototype. Models available only in Japan.

 

Nissan Mobile Phone with Intelligent Key

Mom and Dad may be on a tighter budget these days, but when it comes time for Christmas or Hanukkah, there will be toys for the kids.

We've scanned the hot holiday toy lists from the retailers and trade publications such as "The Toy Insider" and "Time to Play" magazine and done a little digging ourselves to bring you a collection of toys that are sure to please children of all ages.

The trends this season include lots of collectible toys such as Squinkies and Zoobles, as well as plenty of new twists on traditional favorites.

Here are those and some of the other hottest toys of the holidays:

©Playmobil

1-2-3 Large Farm Playset

Manufacturer: Playmobil
Suggested retail price: $54.99
Recommended ages: 18 months to 4 years

Sure to inspire hours of open-ended play, this farm-themed playset contains colorful animals that are larger than the traditional Playmobil figures and pieces, in order to be appropriate for toddlers.

©Disney

Dance Star Mickey

Manufacturer: Fisher-Price
Suggested retail price: $69.99
Recommended ages: 18 months and up

Get ready to dance along with Mickey. In dance mode, children can groove with Mickey as he moves to the beat of one of six different songs, or put him in game mode to play "Mickey Says" or "Freeze Dance."

©Spin Master

Zoobles

Manufacturer: Spin Master
Suggested retail price: $9.99
Recommended ages: 3-11 years old

Already a hot seller, Zoobles are a collectible toy from the makers of Bakugan. Although each of the pieces operates in a way that is similar to the popular Bakugan orbs, the design and manner of play is more likely to appeal to girls.

Pop the round balls on top of their magnetic "happitat" and watch them transform into whimsical characters.

Collecting is a popular trend right now, whether it is Zhu Zhu pet hamsters, Silly Bandz bracelets, or many other items.

©Jakks Pacific

Disney Princess & Me

Manufacturer: Jakks Pacific
Suggested retail price: $49.99
Recommended ages: 6-8 years old

Sales of 18-inch dolls are expected to be robust this holiday season, says Karen Dodge, chief merchandising officer at Toys 'R Us. This Ariel doll from Jakks Pacific's Disney Princess & Me line is just one example of the trend. Available exclusively at Toys 'R Us and the Disney Store, they are likely to be a hot toy this holiday season, because girls are so fond of the Disney princesses.

Other dolls in this category include Mattel's American Girls dolls and less expensive versions such as MGA Entertainment's Best Friends Club. Walmart sells an exclusive line of 18-inch Madame Alexander dolls, while Target's exclusive line is called "Our Generation."

©Learning Curve

Chuggington Launch & Go Roundhouse

Manufacturer: Learning Curve
Suggested retail price: $24.99
Recommended ages: 3 years and up

According to Toys 'R Us, there is a resurgence in the popularity of trains this holiday season. Pictured here is a set for preschoolers based on the popular television series "Chuggington," which airs on Disney. Products licensed with PBS's Thomas & Friends also are expected to sell well this year, as are other sets designed for older children.

With this set, children can rotate the launcher and eject engines onto the circular track.

©Mattel

Sing-A-Ma-Jigs

Manufacturer: Mattel
Suggested retail price: $12.99
Recommended ages: 3 years and up

Sing-a-ma-jigs has made it on many a "hot toy" list this fall, and it's no wonder: put simply, this toy makes you smile. Each of the plush characters sings a different song, but the real fun happens when you have several harmonizing together.

©Jakks Pacific

Real Construction

Manufacturer: Jakks Pacific
Suggested retail price: $24.99 and up
Recommended age: 5 years and up

This brings role-playing construction to a whole new level. Children can cut and nail the foam as if it were wood. There are different size kits that include construction plans, or children can design their own creations.

©Jakks Pacific/Wild Planet

Spy-Themed Toys

We've seen numerous spy-themed toys this holiday season that should garner a lot of attention. Two of the most interesting include Jakks Pacific's Spy Net Secret Mission Video Watch, which is targeted to kids 8 years old and up, and is priced at about $49.99; and the Wild Planet's Spy Gear Radio Control Spy Video Tracker Vehicle, which is recommended for ages 6 to 12 years, and is priced at about $120.

The lower cost of technology has let a lot of toymakers create innovative products and still keep prices down. Both of these toys include video cameras capable of recording video that can be uploaded to a computer.

The Video Tracker Vehicle even allows kids to write their own applications to download back to the vehicle.

©Mattel

Monster High

Manufacturer: Mattel
Suggested retail price: $16.99
Recommended ages: 6 years and up

Monster High is a new fashion doll line from Mattel that is off to a strong start, fueled by a social media campaign and online videos. The product taps into the current popularity of vampires; it offers a bold style that is bringing older girls back to the category.

©Microsoft/Sony

Motion-Control Video Games

Watch out Wii, there's competition from new motion-control games and systems. Microsoft is out with Kinect and Sony will be selling Move this holiday season. Both attempt to elevate the motion-control experience to a new level.

Kinect does so without a controller as the system scans your entire body, while Move has wireless controllers that are said to be more precise than Nintendo's Wii, allowing for more powerful gaming.