The 404 725: Where everybody calls in sick (podcast)

Watch this: Ep 725: Where everybody calls in sick

31:57

With Jeff too sick to come in this morning, Dan Ackerman and Scott Stein from CNET's Digital City Podcast jump into the studio with me to record today's show.

And don't worry, this will NOT be a repeat of the infamous "Cheese Stands Alone" episode, so big thanks to Dan and Scott for coming to my rescue!

We spoke briefly about Google Chrome OS on yesterday's show, but I'd be a dummy not to ask two of our laptop editors about it while I have a chance.

At Tuesday's Chrome OS launch event, Google unveiled the Cr-48 Chrome Netbook that has a 12.1-inch display, a full-size keyboard, embedded 3G access and 802.11n Wi-Fi, an SSD, and a battery rated to eight hours of continuous use, and more than eight days of standby time.

The laptop won't be available to purchase until the final one rolls out at the end of next year, but Google's Chrome pilot program gives anyone the chance to be a beta tester for the hardware and software.

To apply, start by filling out this form, but hurry because quantities are limited and some lucky geeks already received theirs today!

Speaking of laptops, Dan brings in the Dell Inspiron Duo for show and tell. The creative design marries the traditional folding clamshell laptop computer with a hinge in the middle of the lid that flips the screen 180 degrees, transforming the device into a tablet PC.

You can also purchase an optional speaker dock for higher-quality media playback, and we like that there's a built-in Web cam for video chats, but it's built into part of the screen bezel so it disappears when the display is flipped into tablet mode- doh!

A good portion of the show is also dedicated to a prototype of a new prosthetic arm shaped like a tentacle, but you'll have to tune in to get the full story.

Thanks again to Scott and Dan for coming in this morning, and send your best wishes to Jeff for a quick recovery! Seriously, the show can't go on without at least 2/3 hosts!