bluetooth

Windows 8, Google+, Bluetooth: My geeky 2013 resolutions

I could have been a better geek in 2012. When it comes down to it, there just aren't enough hours in a day to do all the gaming, social networking, rooting, modding, and general geekery we'd like to. When forced to make the choice between a family vacation or staying home to indulge in nerdy pleasures like crunching the data generated by the newly flashed firmware on my Wi-Fi router, that trusty old Linksys model and my other devices tend to be the ones that get scorned.

But I resolve that this New Year will be different. … Read more

Apple rumor watch: iOS timepiece on drawing board?

After creating the iPod, iPhone, and iPad, is Apple now working on an iWatch?

A report cited by Business Insider claims that Apple has partnered with Intel to develop an iOS watch. Supply chain sources reportedly told Chinese blog site Tech163.com that the watch would be Bluetooth-enabled and sport a 1.5-inch OLED screen.

The so-called smart watch would debut sometime in the first half of next year.

Other sources have chimed in on the general concept, with Piper Jaffray analyst Gene Munster, for one, saying he thinks wearable computing is a line that Apple might eventually get into. … Read more

Hook up an iPhone, or iPod, to your car

In the past, we told you how to 'iPod your car', which meant adding some sort of adapter to play music from an iPod through a car's speakers. With iPhones, we not only play music, but also make hands-free phone calls and use navigation. In this guide, we will show you how to connect your iPhone to your car for sound, which could be music, turn-by-turn navigation, or a phone call. Of course, the solutions for music also apply to iPods. And if you use an Android, check out Car Tech's guide to using your Android phone in the car. … Read more

Flush with your smartphone: Toilets get Bluetooth

Japan already has the market cornered on fancy toilets, but there's always room for more potty innovations. A new line of toilets from Lixil will soon turn smartphones into commode controllers.

The Satis toilets are set for release in early 2013. Through the magic of Bluetooth and an accompanying Android app, users will have minute control over these high-tech privies.

The app can trigger a lifting of the toilet seat or a flush if you've forgotten (or don't want to touch the flusher). According to the promo video, it looks like the app can also control an extending bidet feature that looks absolutely frightening. … Read more

WiLAN sues RIM over BlackBerry Bluetooth technology

Research In Motion has been hit with a new lawsuit from WiLAN.

WiLAN, which derives its revenue from licensing patents to vendors, says that it filed the patent infringement claim against RIM in the Southern District of Florida. The company says that RIM is violating Patent No. 6,260,168 related to Bluetooth technologies.

WiLAN has a long history of initiating litigation to get companies to license its patents. Founded in 1992, the firm calls itself a "leading technology innovation and licensing company." According to the firm, it currently licenses its intellectual property to over 260 companies around … Read more

Crave Ep. 102: Mr. Ghost app

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On the second episode of Crave's newly resurrected weekly show, we ain't fraid of no Mr. Ghost iPhone EMF detector. Aaron Rasmussen, the creator of the ghost-hunting app, joins us via Skype to go over some of its cool features. Plus, we check out PopSlate, an iPhone case with an e-ink display on the back. Also, play our new game "Into It/Not Into It." … Read more

Kohler's Bluetooth showerhead sprays songs

Do you like to listen to music while taking a shower? For me, doing so is a bit of a chore since I usually have to lug the speaker dock in from the bedroom, unplug the electric toothbrush from the outlet, and -- I know, I know, total first-world problems. Regardless, the whole setup process really soils the act of turning on tunes spontaneously.

Kohler recently announced Moxie, a showerhead that solves my problem by adding some useful tech: Bluetooth and a speaker. … Read more

The 404 1,176: Where where Brian admits he has a problem (podcast)

Leaked from today's 404 episode:

- Justin wanted to like the modern take on The Rockettes at Friday's showing, didn't.

- Father of SMS reflects on 20th anniversary of first text.

- News Corp shuts down The Daily.

- These companies hate your guts.

- StickNFind Bluetooth stickers are the best idea you didn't think of.

- Apple trying to patent wireless charging.… Read more

Get a Logitech Bluetooth Wireless Speaker for $49.99

This is an update of a deal I wrote about nearly a year ago.

I'm a big fan of Bluetooth speakers. Plunk one down just about anywhere and you can wirelessly stream tunes from your smartphone, tablet, or laptop. I have one of those Jawbone Jamboxes, and it's proven a great little accessory.

But pricey: they sell for around $120 and up. Here's a much more affordable alternative: for a limited time, and while supplies last, Meritline has the refurbished Logitech 980-000589 Bluetooth Wireless Speaker for $49.99 shipped. Though a discontinued product, it sells elsewhere for … Read more

A 'Star Trek: TNG'-style communicator for your shirt

Joke all you want, but Siri is pretty cool. And Google Search? Even cooler. Just one problem: These voice-powered assistants require you to take your phone out of your pocket, purse, briefcase, or whatever. You can't just talk to the air and have your commands recognized.

What you need is one of those "Star Trek: The Next Generation"-style communicators, the kind Captain Jean-Luc Picard wore on his chest. One little tap and he's all, "Commander Data, meet me in Engineering."

Indiegogo project CommBadge may not look Starfleet-issue, but it accomplishes much the same … Read more