Oh So Fake!

iStage
Originally uploaded by Flyinace2000

Today, a friend asked me to set up his "iPod." This unassuming individual handed me a device called the "iStage," which he apparently got as a gift for his birthday. I let him know that it was a fake, and stood slightly bemused at the myriad accessories offered up with this gadget. Why does the fake iPod come with more accessories than the real iPod? Then again, the iStage doesn't play purchased songs or videos from the iTunes Music Store, so it's a little....useless. Another day, another fake, and another acknowledgement counterfeits are good for nothing.

Flickr Set

Bye Bye Paper, Hello Kindle

Today Jeff Bezos, founder of Amazon.com, has announced a new product call Kindle. The new gadget is set to revolutionize the way we both buy and read the printed word. The Kindle will "Revolutionary electronic-paper display provides a sharp, high-resolution screen that looks and reads like real paper" according to amazon.com's product page. The device will also be able to download and purchase content over its EVDO connection thanks to a partnership with Sprint. The unit will be able to used for over 200 hours before needing only 2 hours to recharge. Did I mention it can also access Wikipedia.org, blogs, magazine, newspapers and email attachments?

RCRD LBL Launches

Peter Rojas of Engadget, Gizmodo and Joystiq has joined with Downtown Records (Gnarles Barkley and Cold War Kids) to create a totally new record label aptly named RCRD LBL. According to the site, "In a world where many people get their music for free, we wanted to create a site where bands we loved could put their music out there for free AND get paid for it." So head on over, sign up, and find some new music and don't be afraid to download...the RIAA Ninjas won't come to get you.

http://rcrdlbl.com

REVIEW: V-Moda VIBE Duo

Last week I went to the Digital Life Holiday Shopper show and I was lucky enough to pick up a pair of V-Moda VIBE Duo earbuds for my new iPhone. Needless to say I was disappointed in the stock Apple earbuds, but I did like the inline microphone/remote control. My day to day headphones are a set of Grado SR80. So the stock Apple buds were not going to cut it in terms of audio or ergonomics. The Vibe Duo's fit very well in the ear and come with 5 other size ear cushions (white and black. small, medium and large). They do a very good job at sealing out most of the outside world. I used them for my 45 minute train ride and didn't feel any discomfort at the end of the ride. For comparison the Apple earbuds were hurting after 20 minutes of wear. Since the Vibe Duo are made for the iPhone they fit perfectly into the iPhone's recessed headphone jack. The controls on the Vibe Duo also worked perfectly. But, how did they sound? The first thing i though when i put them on was that I had the iPhones EQ on base boost, but I didn't. So I tried a few more songs and I do notice these things put out a LOT of base. I find my Grado's give me a much more accurate sound. But in all fairness my Grado's are not exactly train friendly with their size and lack of sound isolation. If most of your music library is base heavy then you should like the sound of the Vibe Duo.

Overall the headphones are comfortable and function great as a hands free for easy calling via your iPhone. I found the audio quality not what i was used to, but that doesn't mean you won't like them. Like most headphone the best thing to do is to try before you buy and see if you like them. I give them 3.5 of out 5.

Coming Soon!

I just got back from the Digital Life Holiday Preview and besides some yummy food and an open bar, I got to play with some cool gadgets. I even got fun stuff to review. So check back tomorrow for a initial review of the V-moda Vibe Duo iPhone headphones, how Nickelodeon is doing kids electronics, and ZipIt mobile IM.

Meebo FireFox plugin

My favorite web based chat client now has FireFox plugin. You can grab it from Meebo's site.

Features include:
supports all networks - Access all your buddies on AIM, Yahoo!, MSN, GTalk, ICQ, and Jabber!
smart buddylist - See your most recent messages in the optional sidebar while you browse the web
automatic sign-on - Automatically sign on to your IM accounts when you launch your browser
alerts - Get notified when your friends send you an IM so you'll never miss it
share links - Drag images and links right onto your sidebar buddylist

Wii Don't Like Counterfeits

Nintendo has made it clear that they are tough on counterfeits, after tips to authorities caused a court ordered raid yielding 10,000 fake products allegedly used to play counterfeit Nintendo software, the company announced. In only three days, Nintendo reps seized thousands of products that copy games and modification chips from Supreme Factory Ltd. facilities. The company is also linked to the French Divineo SARL, also named in the suit.

"Piracy affects the entire video game industry," Jodi Daugherty, of Nintendo of America, said in a statement. "It can destroy years of hard work by a team of very talented software developers, who strive to create games consumers enjoy playing. Copying the developers' work and spreading the game files globally is blatant stealing."

engadget sheds a bit of humour on the issue this week, making a crack at the makers of "Nintendo Wu."

Others note it's no laughing matter. Authorities in Thailand have reported the death of a young boy. Seven-year-old Conor O'Keefe of Britain died this year when playing a fake Nintendo game controller in his family's hotel room in Thailand. Poorly made fakes often have faulty wiring that can lead to electrocution, as previously reported.

Tech Deals: HDMI and Thumb Drive

Buy.com has a 4gb Kingston thumb drive for $25 (or $15 for first time google checkout users).
"4GB DataTraveler USB 2.0 Flash Drive is ideal for home office, small business, schools and promotions. It is affordable and put mobile storage in nearly anyone's hands."

MeritLine has a pair of 6ft HDMI cables for only $10. Don't pay $100 at a retail store for HDMI cables, these will work just fine. "A Pair of 6 Feet HDMI TO HDMI A/V Cable For HDTV and PlayStation 3, 26 AWG Cable, Gold Plated Connectors, Support 720P and 1080P True HD Resolution, FREE STANDARD SHIPPING"

Verizon and ATT to act like they might like their customers

Right now if you call your cell carrier to change your plan your contract gets extended. Want to get out of you contract 2 weeks early? Pay $175. The Washington Post reports that "Consumers filed more complaints about the wireless industry than any other sector for the past three years, according to the Council of Better Business Bureaus. Contract-related problems rank among the most common complaints." Under pressure from congress ATT and Verizon are preempting a new bill that would require them to prorate termination fees.

Link via Washington Post

Before Going Shopping Check Those Bills

Though it is estimated that only 1/100th of one percent of US currency in circulation is counterfeit wikiHow posted a great story on how to spot fakes. Many easy steps are to simply feel the currency and compare it to other bills you may have. Subtle differences will let you know. If you do suspect you have some funny money call up your local Secret Service office.

But really, who uses cash any more.

Link (WikiHow)

A Smart Buyer's Guide to Refurbished Computer Parts

As much as buying brand new hardware is fun, sometimes it's just as well to buy an older part or machine. The wonders of the net have allowed us access to computer parts that would otherwise be obsolete; it's a treasure trove of eclectic old parts, which are necessary when you want to keep a legacy machine going.

This is especially important in regard to "enterprise parts" like servers and routers, because many companies invest tens of thousands of dollars in systems which only run on particular components. "Upgrading" to an entirely new system would cost a company millions, so it's essential they have access to older parts long after they've been discontinued.

The need to keep legacy systems going spurred an entire industry furnishing customers with used, refurbished and unused parts. As mentioned before, the internet has helped this along greatly. However, the internet has also made it easier to pass off counterfeit parts as authentic for unassuming buyers. When it comes to buying older parts, buyers can be a bit bit confused in looking for clues to an items authenticity. Thanks to guidelines provided by Pyramid technology services, a company reputed for its quality refurbished computer parts, we can offer some tips:

From the source:

1. "Look at the color of the serial number. Cisco's own color is a yellow-orange; counterfeits are darker. The numbers may appear crowded and even rub off on the phony items."
2. "LEDs on blades should all be the same size."
3. "Watch the color on loop-back buttons on wan interface cards: it should be dull, not bright red."
4. "Real cisco boards usually have solder points covered with nickel-zinc, not copper, as seen on counterfeits."
5. "Inside the RJ-45 connector, cisco parts will have the word "Steward," not "GLG."
6. Always deal with a well-established value added reseller. Look for a dealer who rigorously tests everything and who backs up sales with a warranty."
7. "Stick with sellers who belong to the ASCDI (the Association of service and computer dealers International). They have an established code of ethics and an arbitration procedure in place for any problems that might arise. "
   

Source
Photo Credit

How to Spot a Fake Swiss Army Knife

When people think of counterfeits, Swiss Army Knives are generally not on top of their lists. But, it's true--many of the knives found at bazaars or even in your local stores could be fake. If it's too cheap to be true, it may not be real. And, as Certified Swiss Army dealer Frank Mazza of Kimberly & Co states, only authentic products will do when it comes to things as dangerous as knife/tool combos.

"One of the reasons that designer brands are so popular and so expensive is because of their quality," Mazza says. "People have come to trust those brands to make reliable products, so they have to be able to back up that trust with products of the highest quality. Chances are that if you're looking for a Swiss Army product, whether it's a knife or a watch, you want it not just for the name or the prestige, but for the quality that that name implies."

Good point. So what do we do? Here's the guide to the real thing:

1. The blade: The swiss cross is respected on consumer products as a mark of excellence, showing at least 50% of the product was made in Switzerland. But, not all products bearing the Swiss cross adhere to this important law. A knife with a cross does not automatically mean it is authentic. In fact, all real Swiss Army Knives are forged with markings on their blades as well as their exteriors. Companies Victorinox and Wenger are the only two authentic manufacturers, so check the blade for their names.
2. The Real Deal(er): The best way to get the real thing? Get it an an authorized retailer, where there is no question of authenticity. Authorized retailers must be registered to sell Swiss Army Knives. The best source to check for retailers is www.swissarmy.com; their "Where to Buy" section helps you find the closest authorized dealers near you!
3. True Cost of Fakes: isn't an offered service with counterfeits. ("Um, excuse me Mr. Market-Stall-Guy, can you tell me what the limited warranty on this is?) Authentic Swiss Army products protect "against any defects in material and workmanship," as part of a lifetime warranty.

Photo Credit

The Last Gadget You Will Ever Need (until next week)

I know every day i grab my cell phone, iPod Nano, and my watch and think to myself "I wish I could have all in one device that replaced all of my stuff". Cue the IMOBILE Flying C1000 phone/PDA/PMP/watch. Its specs are rather impressive with a touch-screen, Bluetooth support, 60MB of RAM, a video / audio player, a mini USB jack, possibly a camera and a 3g radio for surfing the web from anywhere.

is limited to china at the moment, but I am sure there are ways to get your hands on one of these do-it-all gadgets. I am still waiting for the elusive shoe phone.

via Engadget

Not so real iPod Nano spotted

The boys and girls over at MacBidouille (my most favorite French apple blog), have dug up a shot of a new Apple favorite, the Nano. If you look closely you will notice something is a bit off about this. The Chinese company Shenzhen has made nearly identical copies of the Nano in less than one week. It should be on European shelves with the next few weeks.

What's your opinion of such blatant copying?

Zune Price Drop to $199

As of tomorrow you will be able to get a shiny brand new Zune for only $199. Microsoft swears it has nothing to do with that "other" mp3 player and all the news it is generating (here, here, here, or here). Either way if the Zune is your thing, then tomorrow is your day. (but if Apple is your thing then tomorrow is probably you day too)

via Engadget
(photo credit)

Motorola's new RAZR2 V8

In addition to all the extra letters and numbers after RAZR, Motorola's followup to their arguably most successful phone ever is looking like a winner.

"Specs wise there is a WMP11 codec, a USB 2.0 interface, a
touchscreen customized for music, 512MB of integrated storage and up to 2GB of (microSD?) user storage. You can also read text messages on the external display. There is quad band GSM/GPRS, a 2MP cam with MPEG4 video support and 8x zoom. The external display is the same 2” QVGA screen, the internal one is 2.2” same resolution as the external one."

This phone might be enough to tempt me away from the iPhone. Argh, i made a promise to myself i would not mention the iPhone in this post. Sorry, i just couldn't restrain my self.

Source

How to Spot a Fake Rolex

Bling
Originally uploaded by bambino333

A savvy consumer took an impromptu trip to Manhattan's infamous Chinatown last week to show you the differences between real and fake Rolexes. He writes "Of course, my watch was a textbook fake, from the shoddy materials, clear-glass backing, and the inaccurate 'date bubble."

Some of his tips include:
1) Clear caseback--luxury watches don't have clear plastic backs! Total giveaway.
2) Micro-etched Crystal--"My counterfeit watch doesn’t even attempt to mimic this feature, but many fakes will try to match the micro-etched Rolex logo that has become standard on genuine watches made after 2002. Rolex began micro-etching their coronet symbol into the crystal just below the 6 o’clock position. The mark is so small, it is often difficult to see with the naked eye, but can be identified under magnification. The detail is so precise that counterfeit models often cannot replicate the logo accurately."
3) Hand movement--if the hands, particularly the second hand--clicks or moves in a jerky way, it's a fake. The real thing has a smooth, fluid movement that just can't be copied.

Read the full story here. And remember that the best way to ensure your watch is real is to purchase at an authorized distributor.

16GB of Photo Snapping Goodness

We all are taking more and more pictures on our digital cameras, so that 2gb memory card is already starting to seem small. Does 16gb sound better? Then Panasonic is your new best friend because they will be releasing a 16gb SD(HC) card for a MSRP of $319.99 in November of this year. The is obviously aimed at professional photographers or those of you taking long trips and don't want to run out of space while traveling.

Of course if 16gb is not big enough you can always wait it out for the 32gb model from Toshiba.

Source

Voice Recognition on iPhone

I promise this won't become a iPhone only blog, but recently there has been a lot of iPhone news. Yesterday VoiceSignal ported their voice recognition system in the form of an application to control music playback. Simply launch the app and say the name of the song or artist. Check out the video below.

via EngadgetMobile

While nVidia and ATI are well known for their gaming performance, Intel is making strides to revamp their integrated graphics chip. Part of the new Santa Rosa chipset is the GM 3001 integrated graphics. This replaces their previous generation, the GMA950 (currently found in Apple's MacBook and MacMini). The GM 3001 is the first integrated graphics to be able to handle some of today's games. It has been demonstrated that Call of Duty 2, Far Cry and Battlefield 2 are playable, which is unheard of when talking about integrated graphics.

Watch the video for more



Story via HardMac

-Will S.

iPhones: $100 off @ Apple Store Online

The apple store has a little treasure trove called the Refurb Store. Apple has started selling refurbished iPhones for $100 off their retail price. So you can get a 4gb iPhone for 399 and 8gb for $499 (2 year contract still required). These products come with the same warranty as new products and in all the times I have ordered from Refurb they all looked brand new. So save some cash.

Apple iPhone Refurb Store

-Will S.

Blog Dump - 43Folders and LifeHacker

I wanted to share two of my favorite blogs with you, LifeHacker and 43Folders. Both help you become more productive. 43Folders is written by Merlin Mann (bonus points for a such a cool name). His sense of humor and wit make the site both fun to read and highly rewarding. LifeHacker is like 43Folders on steroids. It updates much more frequently and encompasses more topics. In the past week I have seen articles about personal finance, software picks, and how to lose weight. Pretty much anything to improve the way you live your life. So fire up the RSS reader and add their feeds.

-Will S.

Ever Read that Wireless Contract?

If you have read your wireless contract, you may have seen language that looks like this:

mandatory binding arbitration

If so it means that if you and your wireless carrier get into a legal argument you can not go to court. You will have to battle it out in arbitration meetings, which Wikipedia defines as "a legal technique for the resolution of disputes outside of courts." Arbitration disputes drag on longer than a long-distance phone bill, which is not so fun.

The good news is that the 9th Circuit Court Of Appeals has ruled it unconstitutional. So now when you sue your wireless provider you can go to real court--mallet, funny robes, and all.

via The Consumerist

-Will S.

Call of Duty 4 Demo coming to 360

Get your gaming thumbs ready cuz' a demo of Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare is coming to the 360. Check out the countdown clock to help you wait out every second until it is available for free download. You have until the clock hits zero to clear out 995mb from you 360's hard drive. Happy Gaming.

Original Source

-Will S.

the tech files, ed. 3

Blue Raven hatches a Hi-Fi knockoff (engadget)

iCopy: Another Bad Knockoff (Rising Sun)

iPhone again

The Ugliest Cellphones Ever

the tech files, ed. 2

Would You Buy a Fake iPod Shuffle? Vote Now!

Curbing counterfeit Auto Parts (Fleet Equipment Mag)

How to Spot a Fake Auto Part (The Auto Writer)

Another Bad iPhone Knockoff (Appletell)

X-Game 360 and PowerStation 3 Could be Strangest Knockoffs Ever (Tech Blog)

How to Avoid Counterfeit Software (Seeking Alpha)

Photo: Flickr's Christos_M2001

the tech files, ed. 1

New Hologram Combats Fakes (JCN)
Black iPod Shuffle Knockoff (engadget)
China Car Makers Strike Again (engadget)
The Inside of Fake Electronics (engadget)

Photo: JC Medina

iPhone

iPhone madness is still hitting hard. I don't have one yet, but I definitely want to get one in the near future. What do you think about iPhone vs. the others?