Category: Gadgets

Google’s Android Wear

As seen on TechCrunch, Google has announced a new smartwatch  platform dubbed, Android Wear. The software is for OEM partners to create hardware for people so they can start using wearable devices. Among the first devices to launch using the new software is the LG G and the Moto 360.  A key feature of the Android UI extension, include Google’s already familiar Google Now feature which has the always on voice commands. Things you can ask for include requests about flight times, making reservations, sending texts and much more. Google is also focusing on health and fitness apps that can be used to keep up with daily work out routines.

As of right now LG and Motorola are Google’s key partners for Android Wear. LG currently has the G watch which will release in the second quarter and Motorola has the Moto 360 which they plan on releasing this summer.

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Amazon Gaming Controller

As seen on Mashable, leaked photos of an Amazon gaming controller have appeared,  giving the rumor mill something to churn out.  Photos of the controller appeared on ANATEL — the Brazilian equivalent of the Federal Communications Commission.

The controller has A, B, X, and Y face buttons,  two analog sticks, a directional pad, and bumpers and triggers on the top. The controller runs via Bluetooth and is powered by two AA batteries.

As stated on Mashable, Amazon started their own gaming studio in 2012, and in February the company also acquired Double Helix Games. Could we see a future gaming console from Amazon? We will see.

HP releases iPad Mini lookalike

I’m not sure if HP is asking Apple to sue them but with this new release I doubt Apple will look past this. HP’s new tablet called the HP 8, looks identically like the iPad mini. It even looks to have the same 7.85-inch IPS 1024×768 display.

It has a reasonable price, sitting at $170. The tablet as an Allwinner quad-core ARM chip, 1GB RAM, 16GB storage, a microSD slot (supporting up to 32GB cards) and running Android 4.2.2 (Jelly Bean). It also has a 3,800mAh battery that promises up to seven hours of use.

Sound appealing yet?

Fashionable Smartwatch Concept

The smartwatch era is having a rather rough start with bulky designs and what I call a very “un-fashionable” look. Samsung’s first Galaxy Gear was a disappointment to me with the huge camera sitting on the strap. Their gear fit was a major step up but nothing to really throw my money at. What I and many other people want is something that doesn’t compromise design for performance. Gábor Balogh’s concept design for a smartwatch probably answers hours prayers.

The concept is simple, a round watch with a large screen that has plenty of room for  notifications, health applications, music playback and more. Its a very unique and attractive design. Check out more images below.