1.  Samsung Adidas F110 miCoach

This slider phone looks innocuously like a mobile phone, but with the Adidas logo prominently located under the display, you know something special is afoot.  The miCoach F110 has a heart-rate monitor and stride sensor which connects wirelessly, and the phone software creates custom workouts and prompts you via audio instructions.  Once you’ve finished your workout, you can sync the training data with the miCoach website which allows you to track your fitness goals.  Finally, you can listen to your favourite tunes while toning up.

2.  Garmin Forerunner 405 GPS watch

The GPS manufacturer has usability to a new level by incorporating a unit into a watch – the Garmin Forerunner 405 measures and records your speed, distance, elevation and even your heart rate, while looking like an everyday sports timepiece.  With touch controls, wireless connectivity and fitness tracking software on the PC, the Forerunner 405 is certainly an impressive addition to the workout arsenal.

3.  Vital Jacket – wearable heart / ECG monitor

The Vital Jacket, apart from looking like a prop from the movie Tron, continuously monitors electrocardiogram (ECG) and heart rate for use in high performance sports and fitness applications.  It comes in two models – the HWM100 stores data in a SD card for post-analysis on a PC, while the HWM200 sends data to devices via bluetooth.

Finally, we leave you with some tips to track your fitness progress with some free tools, courtesy of LH.  Enjoy!

The cute phone weighs less than 3 ounces and will be sold through retail outlets such as convenience stores.  Greenies need not fear – the company offers a $5.00 rebate for returning the phone for recycling.

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For those tired of the standard iPhone look, you can deck out your iPhone in 29 different colours, courtesy of Colorware. Price? $150 if you send yours in, or $650 / $750 if you buy a 4GB / 8GB new from them. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can do it yourself, but be prepared to void your warranty.

I still think retro is the way to go though, which is why I think this Apple concept phone from 1983 rocks! Check out the black and white touchscreen in all its 8-bit glory!

While we’re on the topic of bling, someone should take a leaf out of these guys’ books and offer an iPhone with some of these sexy studs. But please, for the love of God, don’t go here – an 18-carat gold 2GB iPod shuffle, for 14,000 Euros. Sacrilege!

Rumours of a new iPhone model have been making tracks around the blogosphere – that a iPod Nano based model sporting a circular touch pad as opposed to a touch screen, will be arriving by the end of the year, with a price tag of around $249 to $299 US. Some say that the iPod platform is due for a major upgrade too, that each successive model has just been an evolutionary upgrade in terms of functionality, instead of a something revolutionary.

I sure hope though, that they won’t be combining the two products into one, and that the iPod Nano as a music player will continue to exist. Why? Well firstly, in terms of sheer size and portability, an iPod Nano simply can’t be beat – it’s hard to imagine anything smaller or sexier, yet having the same functionality. Turn it into an iPhone though, and I’m sure the touchscreen and phone hardware will add bulk.

Secondly, the iPod Nano is an excellent music player and I would like it to remain that way. The problem with convergent devices is that the added functionality often adds complexity, at the expense of usability. Take the current slate of Windows Mobile phones for example – if I were to be brutally honest, yes they can do everything and then some, but they don’t excel at any one particular function. There are even reports that the current iPhone isn’t that good as a phone.  As the old adage goes – jack of all trades, but master of none.

By all means, improve it, give it a touchscreen with cool gestures and such.  But please, Apple, please let my iPod Nano remain an iPod Nano. What’s your view?

Yes, iPhone fever is everywhere, and probably will be around for some time to come. One thing for certain is that there will be no shortage of Asian knock-offs, hoping to capitalise on the success of the gadget. This latest contender comes from Sophia Mobile, with the touchscreen-enabled Nani (literally, “What?” in Japanese) . It boasts a “4.3-inch touchscreen, video playback at 800 x 400 pixels, a MicroSD card slot, Wi-Fi capability, a camera and a TV tuner”. Mobile TV sounds particularly juicy – it would be a great way to catch up on news and shows while commuting.

You never know – it could be the next iPhone killer, or maybe it could be just a stopgap for those outside the US still waiting to get their hands on an iPhone.

Global distribution plans for the device are expected in the second half of 2005 with mobile operators in Europe, North America, and Asia.

FULL PRESS RELEASE
HTC Announces
The World’s First Windows Mobile 5.0 Based 3G Device
Global distribution expected in the second half of 2005

Taoyuan, Taiwan and Las Vegas, United States -High Tech Computer Corp. (HTC) (TAIEX: 2498) today announced its plans to release the world’s first 3G Windows Mobile 5.0-based device, the HTC Universal. The Universal will enable customers to be more productive while having powerful multimedia and internet browsing capabilities. Global distribution plans for the device are expected in the second half of 2005 with mobile operators in Europe, North America, and Asia.

Microsoft Corp. chairman and chief software architect, Bill Gates, unveiled Windows Mobile 5.0 during his keynote at Microsoft Mobile & Embedded DevCon 2005 in Las Vegas and displayed its versatility on the HTC Universal.

“This is the first time we are seeing the same internet experience, which you can only have in your office, with universal 3G high speed wireless data capability and large VGA display legibility. The new features from Windows Mobile 5.0 will greatly improve the keyboard experience and persistent storage feature will keep user data forever.” said Peter Chou, president of HTC.

Certain technological breakthroughs are seen in the HTC Universal featuring improved support of more multimedia and productivity applications, broad integration of digital multimedia features, and faster connections to the Internet and email servers. With seamless synchronization to Office applications, faster connection speeds and versatile multimedia features customers can be more productive and have fun anywhere, anytime.

“The familiarity and flexibility of Windows Mobile 5.0 enables industry partners like HTC to differentiate itself themselves and provide extremely compelling mobile solutions for its customers,” said Pieter Knook, senior vice president for the Mobile and Embedded Devices Division at Microsoft. “We look forward to our continued work with HTC to deliver forward-thinking and advanced mobile device solutions.”

The HTC Universal is a 3G-enabled device that takes advantage of the advanced Windows Mobile 5.0 features, The built-in keyboard enables users to create and edit files with Microsoft Office applications. For phone and communications, the latest video telephony and dual-camera functionality facilitate high-speed connections and videoconferencing. The clamshell design of the device features a 180 degree pivot screen. With its new user interface boasting portrait and landscape modes, the new 3G phone will automatically change to the best interface. Users can also switch between the two display modes at their own discretion. In addition, users can send and receive pictures and video files at more rapid connection speeds. With its dual speaker stereophonic sound system, users can enjoy smooth and high-resolution videos at anytime.

Note : The names of actual companies and products mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners.

You can set your own autoreply text, and also configure rules specifying which numbers to send autoreplies to. It currently costs $14.95 (USD) with a trial version available.

The rugged Motorola i605 handset offers exclusive features, including Nextel’s new Group ConnectSM walkie-talkie service, which enables group walkie-talkie conversations nationwide, and a large screen that is optimized for outdoor usage to reduce glare from sunlight.

It weighs 5.9 ounces with a high-capacity battery and measures 4.9 (H) x 2.0 (W) x 1.1 (D) inches. THe i605 is available through all Nextel distribution channels, costing $299.99(SD) with a two-year service agreement.

FULL PRESS RELEASE
Nextel and Motorola Launch First Bluetooth-Enabled Rugged Mobile Phone — The Motorola i605

Other Industry Firsts Include a Large Screen Optimized for Outdoor Use and the Enhanced Nextel Group ConnectSM Service that Allows Nationwide Group Walkie-talkie Conversations

RESTON, Va. & PLANTATION, Fla. – 2 May 2005 — Nextel Communications Inc. (NASDAQ: NXTL) and Motorola Inc. (NYSE: MOT) today announced the Motorola i605, the first rugged Bluetooth-enabled mobile phone. The rugged Motorola i605 handset offers exclusive features, including Nextel’s new Group ConnectSM walkie-talkie service1, which enables group walkie-talkie conversations nationwide, and a large screen that is optimized for outdoor usage to reduce glare from sunlight.

The Motorola i605 is designed for users in industries such as field services, construction, transportation and government segments. Its rubberized monolith design meets military specifications for resistance to dust, shock and vibration. Its large memory and maximum battery life provide the optimal operation of Java™-powered business solutions, and its GPS2 capability enables location-based services, including fleet tracking and turn-by-turn directions. The Motorola i605 also offers Nextel Multimedia Messaging service (MMS)2, which allows users to send and receive messages that include text, images and audio together.

The integrated Bluetooth technology enables the wireless exchange of information between devices within a range of 10 meters/30 feet, eliminating the need for wire connections between, for example, the phone and a compatible Bluetooth enabled hands-free headset. The Bluetooth wireless technology also eliminates the need for a data cable to connect the phone to a compatible Bluetooth-enabled laptop using the phone’s wireless modem functionality. (The i605 supports Bluetooth headset and handset profiles.)

The Nextel Group Connect service allows up to 21 participants on a group walkie-talkie call. Participants can be located virtually anywhere within Nextel’s nationwide network, and their status can be viewed on a screen on their phones, including if they are active, opted out or unavailable. Group Connect service allows users to create groups directly on the phone and instantly begin a conversation, without prior setup.

“By incorporating Bluetooth wireless technology into the Motorola i605 phone, we are offering users a convenient way to go hands-free, eliminating the need for wires or cables between the phone and a compatible Bluetooth enabled headset, laptop computer and potentially other compatible Bluetooth-enabled devices,” said Rey More′, senior vice president and general manager, Motorola’s iDEN® Devices.

“The Motorola i605 is a data workhorse that powerfully runs various industry solutions while withstanding the outdoor elements with a rugged design. The Motorola i605 and its exclusive features, such as Group Connect service, are more examples of Nextel’s diverse product and service offerings designed to meet the varying needs of all our customers,” said Blair Kutrow, Nextel’s vice president of Product Management.

Features of the Motorola i605 handset include:

• Daylight-readable color display. The handset’s screen measures 2.2” diagonal and offers a rich 262,000-color resolution with high contrast for easy daylight viewing.
• Strong battery life. The standard battery delivers approximately 240 minutes of talk time and 290 hours of standby. 3
• Large memory size. With 32 MB of flash memory and 6MB of free memory for downloading applications, the i605 provides large amounts of storage for business solutions.
• Direct SendSM. By pressing the walkie-talkie button, contact information (names, phone numbers, email addresses) can be instantly sent to another phone.
• Voice recorder. This feature allows the user to capture memos or incoming phone conversations for future playback.
• 600-entry contact manager. Users can store up to eight numbers for a single name.
• Voice-activated dialing. Keeps hands free with speak-to-dial numbers.
• Downloadable applications. The handset is equipped with pre-loaded programs such as Advanced Calculator, TeleNav 3.0, Trimble Outdoors, @Road Pathway and 1KTV, and a Boulder Dash demo. Users can download more applications at www.nextel.com/downloads for an additional cost.
• Airplane mode. The network connection can be turned off to use applications, games, voice recorder and date book while in flight (subject to FAA regulations).
• Audio caller ID. User-assignable ring tones allow users to instantly identify important calls without having to look at the phone.

The Motorola i605 handset weighs 5.9 ounces with a high-capacity battery and measures 4.9 (H) x 2.0 (W) x 1.1 (D) inches. It is available through all Nextel distribution channels, including retail stores. The Motorola i605 handset costs $299.99 with a two-year service agreement, new activation and credit approval. Taxes, fees, early termination fee and other charges apply.

About Nextel Communications
Nextel Communications, a FORTUNE 200 company based in Reston, Va., is a leading provider of fully integrated wireless communications services and has built the largest guaranteed all-digital wireless network in the country covering thousands of communities across the United States. Today 95 percent of FORTUNE 500® companies are Nextel customers. Nextel and Nextel Partners, Inc. currently serve 297 of the top 300 U.S. markets where approximately 262 million people live or work.

About Nextel Partners
Nextel Partners, Inc., (NASDAQ: NXTP), a FORTUNE 1000 company based in Kirkland, Wash., has exclusive rights to offer the same fully integrated, digital wireless communications services offered by Nextel Communications (Nextel) in mid-sized and rural markets in 31 states where approximately 54 million people reside. To learn more about Nextel Partners, visit www.nextelpartners.com.

About Motorola
Motorola is a Fortune 100 global communications leader that provides seamless mobility products and solutions across broadband, embedded systems and wireless networks. In your home, auto, workplace and all spaces in between, seamless mobility means you can reach the people, things and information you need, on the go. Seamless mobility harnesses the power of technology convergence and enables smarter, faster, cost-effective and flexible communication. Motorola had sales of US $31.3 billion in 2004. For more information: www.motorola.com.

1. In order to use the Group Connect feature, the user and all call recipients must use the pre-installed “600 Contacts & 25 Groups” SIM card, included with the i605 phone.

2. Operates in many major cities and countries where GSM network coverage and roaming agreements are present.

3. All talk and standby times are quoted in Digital Mode, and are approximate. Battery performance depends on network configuration, signal strength, operating temperature, features selected, and voice, data and other application usage patterns.

Certain mobile phone features may not be available throughout the entire network or their functionality may be limited. All features, functionality and other product specifications are subject to change without notice or obligation.

“Consumers can now experience first-hand the power of visual communications by bringing a Motorola Ojo into their connected home,” said David Grubb, vice president, Motorola consumer entertainment solutions. “The Motorola Ojo lets loved ones share personal moments and make new memories even though they might be thousands of miles apart. By enhancing the traditional voice call with real-time video, Ojo lets you now truly be there, even if you can’t get there.“

At $799(USD) a pop though, you better know what you’re getting into. PC Magazine has a review of the phone here.

I think I’ll miss taking phone calls in my underwear…

FULL PRESS RELEASE

Take a Closer Look! Motorola Ojo™ Personal Video Phone Now Available at Retail

Visit one of the high-end retailers launching the revolutionary videophone to see first-hand how Motorola Ojo is changing the face of personal communications.

HORSHAM, Pa. – 2 May 2005 – Motorola, Inc. (NYSE: MOT) today announced the availability of the award-winning Motorola Ojo™ Personal Video Phone. Consumers can now order the world’s first true-to-life videophone through www.motorola.com/ojo and from premium retail locations throughout the United States beginning later this month.

The Motorola Ojo™ Personal Video Phone makes it easy to share special moments and feel close to people important to you, even when you can’t physically be together. The phone sends face-to-face conversations – complete with full-motion video and synchronized audio – over any high-speed Internet connection, keeping friends, family, co-workers, and more seamlessly connected.

“Consumers can now experience first-hand the power of visual communications by bringing a Motorola Ojo into their connected home,” said David Grubb, vice president, Motorola consumer entertainment solutions. “The Motorola Ojo lets loved ones share personal moments and make new memories even though they might be thousands of miles apart. By enhancing the traditional voice call with real-time video, Ojo lets you now truly be there, even if you can’t get there.“

See The Difference For Yourself
With Ojo, seeing is truly believing. So Motorola has partnered with premium retailers to make it easy to get a personal demonstration of Ojo in action, including:

• ABT Electronics is one of the largest independent retailers of consumer electronics and major appliances in the United States, and has been in business for over 68 years. Motorola Ojo will be showcased on the floor of the company’s 250,000 square foot showroom in Glenview, IL, a suburb of Chicago.

For more information, visit www.abtelectronics.com.

• A Delaware Valley institution, Bob and Ron’s World Wide Stereo has been making home electronics simple and enjoyable for almost 30 years. From a knowledgeable sales staff with “audio video and home integration in their genes” to a fleet of experts that will design and install a home theater, customers count on World Wide to explain how technology can make their lives easier.

Motorola Ojo will be featured in the Ardmore and Montgomeryville, Pa. showrooms, where consumers can see a live demonstration.

For more information, visit their online showroom at www.wwstereo.com

• Hammacher Schlemmer, the oldest catalog retailer in the United States, will feature Motorola Ojo in its Father’s Day and Summer 2005 catalogs, and online at the company’s website. Visitors to the company’s flagship store in New York City can also get a first-hand look at Ojo, and even purchase one to take home.

For over 157 years, Hammacher Schlemmer has offered customers “the best, the only, and the unexpected” products in the marketplace.

For more information, visit www.hammacher.com.

• MyerEmco Audio Video stores specialize in providing expert advice on the latest cutting-edge technologies like the Motorola Ojo. The Ojo is a perfect example of MyerEmco Audio Video’s new and exciting product offerings, including a large selection of high-definition flat panel television, home theater equipment, and mobile electronics.

Find the Motorola Ojo at any Washington DC metro area location and experience how it can complement and enhance your family’s lifestyle.

For store listings and directions, visit www.myeremco.com

• RCS Experience presents consumers with an entirely new concept in retailing. The company’s Madison Avenue technology showroom in New York City is the first computer and electronics venue to go beyond showcasing individual products; instead, consumers have access to an environment that demonstrates how “devices” interact with each other – at home, while traveling, and in the office.

Live demonstrations of the Motorola Ojo will be featured as part of a broadband home environment which depicts how easily this technology product is incorporated into any home or small office setting. Customers can experience for themselves the quality and clarity of the Ojo videophone and the exciting ability to communicate face-to-face.

For more information, visit their virtual showroom online at www.rcsexperience.com.

Award-Winning Features
The Consumer Electronics Association honored the Motorola Ojo Personal Video Phone with a “2005 Best of Innovations in Design and Engineering” award for simplifying the complex technology of video telephony. Here are five key features of the Motorola Ojo Personal Video Phone:

FULL MOTION VIDEO – Motorola Ojo captures and sends full motion video at 30 frames per second, motion that’s near broadcast-TV quality. Your voice remains synchronized to your image, even as the transmission travels over the Internet.

INNOVATIVE DESIGN – The innovative, stylish and functional design makes it a perfect addition to any room in the home, from the kitchen to the office. The elevated (eye-level), portrait-oriented LCD digital display (7”diagonal) and camera placement create an experience that is natural and true-to-life.

ON-SCREEN CONTROLS – The on-screen menu system makes it easy to make calls and manage your phone numbers. You can attach an image to any contact in the phone book, so you can “dial by face,” or get picture caller ID when Ojo rings. During calls, the display features a small self-viewer, to see how you are positioned in front of the camera, and know exactly what the other party is viewing.

INTEGRATED CORDLESS PHONE – Use the integrated cordless handset to make voice-only calls using either the public service telephone network (PSTN) or a voice-over-IP (VoIP) network1. Motorola Ojo also includes a high-quality, full-duplex speaker phone.

EASY SET-UP – Motorola Ojo easily connects to your high-speed Internet and telephone lines and is immediately ready to send or receive calls. There are no user names, passwords, or logon procedures to learn.

Motorola worked with WorldGate Communications (NASDAQ: WGAT, www.wgate.com), a leading developer of video telephony technologies, to bring the Ojo Personal Videophone to market. WorldGate’s patent-pending innovations for Ojo include a state-of-the-art optimization of the advanced MPEG-4 coding standard (H.264), which enables transmission of 30 frames-per-second video with synchronized audio at data rates as low as 100 Kbps. This allows Motorola Ojo to work within the upstream data rates for both DSL and cable broadband networks, and ensures that existing broadband infrastructures can handle video phone traffic.

The Motorola Ojo™ Personal Video Phone (Model PVP1000) carries an MSRP of $799.992. Monthly service fees apply. To order Motorola Ojo, visit www.motorola.com/ojo.

(1) Residential PSTN or voice-over-IP telephone service is required for voice-only calls.

(2) Residential broadband service is required for video telephony calls. A monthly service fee of $14.95 is required to send and receive video calls.

About Motorola
Motorola is a Fortune 100 global communications leader that provides seamless mobility products and solutions across broadband, embedded systems and wireless networks. In your home, auto, workplace and all spaces in between, seamless mobility means you can reach the people, things and information you need, anywhere, anytime. Seamless mobility harnesses the power of technology convergence and enables smarter, faster, cost-effective and flexible communication. Motorola had sales of US $31.3 billion in 2004. For more information: www.motorola.com/.

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