Outdoorsy types are sure to love mobile solar chargers, but what about those who rarely see sunlight? (No, we’re not referring to “Twilight.”)
Easy Energy will launch the YoGen, a mobile charger that solely relies on hand power. The pocket-size charger lets you generates energy by repeatedly pulling a ripcord, similar to the way a lawnmower is started.
YoGen Max generates energy through a foot pedal.
(Credit: Easy Energy)
The Las Vegas-based company created this product as a part of its mission to “satisfy the enormous worldwide demand for practical, compact, ‘green energy producing’ manpowered chargers.” Easy Energy is also in the process of launching YoGen Max, a laptop charger that lets you generate energy by continually pressing a foot pedal.
Similar technology can be credited to Baylis, a company that created a wind-up MP3 player in 2008.
Preorders can be placed at the YoGen store and will ship within the next month. The $40 charger is available in black or clear, but you’ll have to choose between Apple and …
Originally posted at 30 Days of Innovation
This Roamobi handset is smaller than a credit card.
(Credit: Roamobi)
Correction at 10:01 a.m. PDT December 7: VMSP licenses will be sold at $41,200.
How will demand for mobile technology play out in developing countries? Mike Kellett and Joe Morgan are tackling this issue as they prepare to launch their global mobile platform at CES 2010.
Although their joint venture, IP2, isn’t the first company to address the need for low-cost international cellular service, it’s taking a different approach. “We have a system that doesn’t depend on government intervention,” says Mike Kellett, co-founder of IP2, based in the U.K.
IP2 will launch a cellular service based on the concept of VMSP, or virtual mobile service provider. Anyone can start a VMSP and sell services and handsets. Usually, a license to operate as a local mobile service provider can cost up to $5 million, but IP2 will be selling VMSP licenses for only $41,200.
The handsets provided by IP2, which are smaller than a credit card, will …
Originally posted at 30 Days of Innovation
The HTC Shift uses EgicTec’s fingerprint sensor technology to secure private information.
(Credit: HTC)
If you’re the type who mandates a unique password for every Web account, you’ve got a lot of memorizing to do. EgisTec, a data encryption and biometrics technology company, is manufacturing a fingerprint sensor that eliminates the need to type any password.
Although the Taipei, Taiwan-based company is predominantly known for its data-deletion software, Shredder, the present focus is on its fingerprint solution for cell phones, laptops, cars, and other devices that might benefit from increased personal security.
EgisTec’s know-how of software and hardware production helps in the creation of technology that manufacturers can easily integrate into their products. Ten million PCs and mobile devices worldwide already use EgisTec’s fingerprint sensor.
Part of the success can be attributed to its ability to read cracked, scarred, dry, and oily skin. It’s durable, too–the sensor can read up to 10 million swipes.
Computer criminals who use simulation attacks or replay to confuse the device should steer
… Originally posted at 30 Days of Innovation
The greening of homes and gadgets is a growing consumer trend, and many exhibitors will debut their eco-friendly products at CES 2010. Last week, we highlighted the Electronic Houskeeper and the PICOwatt, two devices that monitor in-home energy use. Today allows us to highlight the Surge, an iPhone and iPod Touch case with solar panels.
Solar chargers like Solio are chunky and need to be carried around. But the Surge solar case is sleek, ergonomic, and certified by Apple. Two hours of sun exposure power 30-60 minutes of talk time. The Surge features an LED battery-level indicator.
The charger is manufactured by Novothink, a company that vies to pair solar technology and portable devices. The California-based company is focused on creating solar chargers for devices in high demand, as the mission is to allow consumers to live off the grid easily.
The Surge may seem like a gimmick on the face of it, but it might be a perfect solution for Apple iPhone and iPod owners on the go. Emergency chargers are available, …
Originally posted at 30 Days of Innovation
Maurice Tuff, an electrical engineer from Newfoundland, is the brainpower behind a technology that will deter teenagers from reckless driving. Root Four Imagination, Inc. will be showcasing the Safe Driving Monitor, a device that monitors a driver’s speed, distance traveled, and braking habits.
The company recently received $25,000 from the Provincial Government of Canada to better their marketing through an e-commerce enabled website, promotional materials, and possibly attending CES 2010.
Safe Driving monitor consists of two simple parts: a sensor that plugs into the car’s diagnostic port (easily accessed underneath the steering wheel), and a keychain sensor that digitally displays the car’s activity.
The device is marketed to parents of teenagers who may be concerned with their child’s driving risks. Root Four realizes there is a trust issue within the concept, but the device is a preventative device rather than a spying tool. If the driver knows that he or she is being watched, they more likely to practice safe driving habits.
Why distance, speed, and … Read the full post at CNET’s CES 2010 blog
Originally posted at 30 Days of Innovation