First up this time is the lightest mobile phone I’ve heard about and weighs in at just less than 41 grams. It comes from Israeli company Modu Mobile and measures only 72 x 37 x 7.8mm but still includes Bluetooth, 1Gb of storage, a 5MP camera and a USB port to plug straight into a computer. This plug is revealed by taking off part of the outer case, which is designed for a range of different jackets. It’s expected to be available in Europe later this year.
First up this time is the lightest mobile phone I’ve heard about and weighs in at just less than 41 grams. It comes from Israeli company Modu Mobile and measures only 72 x 37 x 7.8mm but still includes Bluetooth, 1Gb of storage, a 5MP camera and a USB port to plug straight into a computer. This plug is revealed by taking off part of the outer case, which is designed for a range of different jackets. It’s expected to be available in Europe later this year.
The next rather odd innovation I want to mention also has a USB connection – a computer mouse with a difference. Japanese gadget manufacturer Thanko has incorporated vacuum cleaner functionality into one of its computer rodent products. At only 62 x 115 x 40mm in size, you aren’t going to pick up much - except perhaps a few crumbs from snacking while surfing the web. Totally impractical but rather a cheap gimmick at $30.
PC manufacturer ASUS has been one of the leaders in launching small notebook computers which have only solid-state storage instead of the traditional hard drive. Its products support either Linux or Windows operating systems and include 802.11 Wi-Fi networking. The initial product had a 7 inch screen but a new 9 inch version is touted soon. The solid-state storage allows for fast start-up times and also data safety in the case of bumps and other rough treatment.
A Chinese manufacturer called DSUS Technology has launched the DS-400GB GPS navigation system in its home market. The difference here is that it is built into a rear view mirror for your car. The ‘mirror’ is split screen with a 4 inch section devoted to the navigation information while a larger remaining section displays the image from a rear mounted camera so that the mirror capability is preserved. The gadget has a touch screen, Bluetooth, memory card expansion module, USB port and internal speakers. I have yet to see any information about availability in Europe or the USA.
Finally, the latest rumours are that the N96 handset from Nokia, the follow-up to the very popular N95, may include DVB-H wireless for receiving broadcast video on the move. It is also likely to have substantially increased internal storage options, probably just as well if video is to be the defining factor for this device.
Note: While we make every effort to ensure accuracy, BT accepts no responsibility for any information contained in Jonathan’s article, nor does the company endorse any product or service mentioned.