If you’ve been longing for a physical keyboard on the iPhone, then you’re in luck. Toronto-based Mobile Mechatroncis has introduced the first attachable keyboard for the iPhone called the “iTwinge”.

Originally designed as a training device for the iPhone’s virtual keyboard, the iTwinge became so popular that no one wanted to go back to the virtual keyboard. Who can really blame them? There’s nothing like a physical tactile keyboard!

The iTwinge comes in a sleeve-like form factor which you slide onto the bottom of the iPhone, turn-on, and then start typing.

The company is now accepting pre-orders on the website for $34.99 (which includes $5.00 dollars for shipping and handling so it’s really $29.99) with shipments expected to begin on November 19th.

[Check it out via NY Times]

Technorati Tags: iTwinge, iPhone keyboard, Mobile Mechatronics

Logitech extends their gamer oriented G-series product lineup with the introduction of three new products – the Logitech G19 keyboard for gaming, the Logitech G35 surround sound headset, and the Logitech G9x laser mouse. Here’s what you need to know about the three new products.

Logitech G19 Keyboard for Gaming

• First Logitech keyboard to feature color GamePanel LCD
• 320 x 240 pixel display provides in-game information for over 60 games
• Screen can also show VoIP communication data, clock, CPU load, or other non-gaming specific information such as pictures or video
• 12 fully programmable G keys with three macros per key – resulting in 36 commands per game
• Multi-key input functionality allows you to engage up to 5 keys at the same time
• Game Mode switch which can disable the Windows key during game play
• Two USB 2.0 ports
• Available in March for $199.99

Logitech G35 Surround Sound Headset

• First Logitech headset to offer 7.1 surround sound
• Powered by second generation Dolby Headphone technology
• Reduces ambient noise thanks to proprietary ear-enclosing design
• Adjustable noise-canceling microphone
• Use included software to morph your voice with six options – cyborg, giant, mutant, space squirrel, troll and alien
• Includes three G keys on left earpiece for one-touch command over voice morphing
• On-ear audio controls for quick access to volume, microphone mute, and surround sound adjustments
• Three swappable headbands – thin, thick, and contoured designs
• Supports Dolby Pro Logic II
• Available in March for $129.99

Logitech G9x Laser Mouse

• Provides precision at any hand speed ( up to 150 inches per second )
• On-the-fly adjustable dpi from 200 to 5000 dpi
• Two interchangeable snap-on grids lets you choose the best fit and feel
• On-board memory for up to five ready-to-play profiles
• Weight-tuning system provides up to 28 grams of extra weight
• Custom color LEDs let you match the mouse to your personal preference
• Available in April for $99.99

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: Logitech G19 keyboard for gaming, Logitech G35 surround sound headset, Logitech G9x laser mouse

Looking for that extra edge in your next LAN gaming party? Check out the newly announced Logitech G13 advanced gameboard. Designed to complement Logitech keyboards and mice (particularly the G15 keyboard and the G9 laser mouse), the G13 advanced gameboard incorporates the ComfortWave design and features three game modes, 25 programmable keys, and a programmable analog stick. In total, the gameboard offers up to 87 ways for you to control your game, with custom game profiles available for each of your favorite game titles. You can even create macros on the fly without exiting your game.

The G13 advanced gameboard also comes with a 160 x 43 pixel GamePanel LCD display which shows live game states, system information, and messages from other players. The gameboard also comes with backlit keys for low-light conditions, on-board memory capable of storing up to 5 ready-to-play profiles, and pre-configured settings for many of today’s popular games.

The Logitech G13 advanced gameboard will be available this month for a price of $79.99.

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: Logitech, Logitech G13 advanced gameboard

No this is not a joke folks. This keyboard really is called the “Keyboard For Blondes” and it comes with funny features and sound effects provided via proprietary software with the sole purpose of playing up on the blonde stereotype.

For example, press certain keys and you’ll hear sounds such as “Oops..” or “You’re deleted” or “Duhhhh”. Press the “$” key and you’ll hear a cash register clinking. I think you get the point.

Other features of the “Keyboard For Blondes” include:

• Space Bar is now called, “The Big One: I need my space.”
• The top row of “F” function keys now spells “Useless Keys.”
• The backspace key now says “Oops!”
• New functionality for texting such as keys for “OMG,” “LOL,” and unique twists: “ALI” (Absolutely Love It!) and “ZZZD” (Boring Date).
• Number keys have musical notes on them

The Keyboard For Blondes is available now for $49.95 plus shipping and handling at www.keyboardforblondes.com.

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: Keyboard for Blondes, keyboard

Mac users who are fans of the Logitech diNovo keyboards will be happy to hear that Logitech has introduced the new diNovo Keyboard, Mac Edition. The new cordless keyboard features Logitech’s PerfectStroke key system, a 3 year battery life, and an integrated number pad. Other features of the diNovo Keyboard, Mac Edition include:

• Full size keyboard layout
• 19 shortcut keys for quick access to apps like Safari, iTunes, Expose, iChat etc
• High gloss, semi-translucent Plexiglass frame
• Thin profile – measures 0.87 from base to key caps
• Built-in brushed aluminum palm rest
• PerfectStroke key system provides longer key travel – 3.2 mm compared to 2.2 mm
• 2.4 GHz Wireless Technology
• 3 year battery life

The Logitech diNovo Keyboard, Mac Edition will be available in the U.S. and in Europe this month for a price of $99.99.

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: Logitech, diNovo Keyboard, Mac edition

Above is Brando’s USB 2.4 GHz RF Wireless Multimedia Tiny Keyboard – a keyboard that’s probably ideally suited for mobile and HTPC environments. The keyboard measures 262 x 112 x 23 mm and features 78 keys, a built-in trackball with 1000/1500 dpi resolution, and an operating distance of up to 10 meters. The keyboard communicates over 2.4 GHz RF to a separate USB receiver which connects to your PC. Brando offers the keyboard for $48 dollars.

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: Brando, USB 2.4Ghz RF Wireless Multimedia Tiny Keyboard

On the notebook side of things, HP released two new entertainment oriented systems – the HDX16 and the HDX18. These notebooks feature built-in TV tuners, Blu-ray support, 1080 pixel displays, and multimedia options such as Altec Lansing speakers, an HP Triple Bass subwoofer, and Dolby Home Theater software. The HDX16 comes with a 16 inch widescreen display with either a 720 or 1080 resolution display while the HDX18 features an 18.4 inch Ultra BrightView 1080 pixel display.  The HDX16 will have a starting price of $1299 while the HDX18 will have a starting price of $1549. Both systems will be available later this month from HP.

On the desktop front, HP introduced their new all-in-one HP TouchSmart IQ800 series this morning. Features include a whopping 25.5 inch high definition widescreen display, a touch-based user interface, and a slot-load Blu-ray player. The IQ800 is wall-mountable which makes the system even more flexible in tight-spaced environments. Other specs to the TouchSmart IQ800 include  an integrated webcam, colored HP Ambient Light, media card reader, large capacity hard drives, the HP Pocket Media Drive Bay, and speakers. The TouchSmart IQ804 PC has a starting price of $1899 and will be available starting on Sept. 21st. The TouchSmart IQ816 will start at $2099 with availability slated for October 12th.

You may or may not know that HP also offers an array of digital picture frames. New as of today are a 3.5 inch model and a 10 inch cherry wood-finish frame. The new frames offer integrated clock and calendar options, support digital music playback, and come with integrated stereo speakers. Prices start at around $59 dollars and go up to $219.

HP’s VoodooPC division announced two new gaming mice – the HDX Laser Mouse and Laser Gaming Mouse with VoodooDNA. These new mice feature up to five levels of on-the-fly sensitivity, five programmable buttons allowing five different macros for five unique profiles (which means 25 different combinations). The HDX Laser Mouse will go for $39.99 while the Laser Gaming Mouse with VoodooDNA will go for $59.99.

Finally, there’s the new spill-resistant HP Wireless Comfort Keyboard and Mouse combo featuring a wave shaped keyboard design, cushioned wrist rests, three adjustable heights designed for more comfortable typing, 31 hotkeys, and programmable buttons for multimedia control. The mouse features a four-way tilt scroll wheel and two programmable buttons. The combo goes for $79.99.

Technorati Tags: HP, HDX16, HDX18, TouchSmart IQ800, HP Keyboard, HP Mice

LaptopMag published a review of the small Bluetooth enabled Logitech diNovo Mini keyboard here on this website. I must be honest with you – I lusted after this keyboard when it was first announced but unfortunately by the time the keyboard shipped, my HTPC was no longer in the living room. However, if I were to ever have a home theater PC in the living room, you could be sure that I’d get this keyboard. Here’s what LaptopMag thought of the device:

At $149, the Logitech diNovo Mini may cost more than most are willing to pay for a wireless keyboard/mouse device, but if you have a PC set up as a media center, and are tired of looking at that bulky keyboard lying around your living room, it’s worth every penny.

Yeah.. start saving up your pennies for this keyboard. Oh yeah – this keyboard is also compatible with the Sony PlayStation 3 in case you need a keyboard for that system too.

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: Logitech, diNovo Mini, Keyboard

Features of the Microsoft SideWinder X6 gaming keyboard include the following:

• Can store up to 90 macros per game
• Backlighting
• Mode switching lets gamers manually switch between standard mode and either of two gaming modes
• Automatic profile switching detects the application that is running and applies the custom profile
• Cruise control feature which continues an action without the user having to continuously press a key or a set of keys. Use this for up to four keys at a time
• In-game macro record button lets gamers record any sequence of keystrokes – even chat messages. Macros are stored on the hard drive
• WASD gaming keys have front-face lighting for visibility
• Quick-launch key gives one touch access to Windows Vista Games Explorer
• Two color adjustable backlighting

Features of the SideWinder X5 Mouse include:

• Nine-button gaming mouse with vertical side buttons
• Adjustable sensitivity up to 2000 DPI
• Five customizable buttons
• Quick-Launch button launches Windows Vista Games Explorer

The SideWinder X6 Keyboard and the SideWinder X5 Mouse will be available in September with the keyboard going for $79.95 and the mouse going for $59.95. Both products are available for pre-order on Amazon.com now.

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: Microsoft, SideWinder X5 Mouse, SideWinder X6 Keyboard

Sony also announced a new Wireless Keypad accessory that snaps onto the top of a SIXAXIS or DUALSHOCK3 wireless controllers. Features on the this Wireless Keypad include:

• Special mode that turns the main key area into a touch pad – similar to notebook touch pads
• Two short cut buttons on the keyboard that will enabled users to go to XMB’s “Friends” icon and the “Message Box” during gameplay
• Supports Bluetooth which means the keypad can support other Bluetooth enabled devices that have keyboard functionality (smartphones etc)
• Pair and charge via USB cable

The Wireless Keypad will launch in late November.

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: Sony, PS3 Wireless Keypad

Logitech announces their second generation Cordless Desktop Wave Pro package featuring the Logitech Wave Keyboard and the Logitech MX1100 Cordless Laser Mouse. The wireless keyboard/mouse combo supports 2.4 GHz wireless frequencies with a range of 33 feet and the keyboard comes with 128 bit AES encryption for added security.

Features of the Wave Keyboard include:

• Combines three design elements – wave key frame, U-shaped constant curve, and cushioned contoured palm rest
• No learning curve to use the keyboard
• Adjustable keyboard height

Features of the MX1100 Cordless Laser Mouse include:

• Designed to support the curved shape of your hand
• Comes with included USB plug
• Allows you to recharge the mouse while you work
• 15 minute charge gives enough power for one day
• 7 hour charge provides up to six weeks of power
• Plug USB cable into included AC adapter and recharge your mouse using wall outlet
• Two scrolling modes
• Eight programmable buttons
• Stealth thumb button for application switching
• Zoom controls allow you to zoom in and out of documents
• Adjustable DPI (up to 1600 dpi)

Now if you’re happy with your existing Wave Keyboard but you want to upgrade the mouse, you can purchase the MX1100 Cordless Laser Mouse separately.

The Cordless Desktop Wave Pro will be available in the U.S. starting in October and in Europe beginning in the middle of November. The suggest price is $129.99. The MX1100 Cordless Laser Mouse will be available separately in the U.S. starting later this month and in Europe in the middle of September with a suggested retail price of $79.99.

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: Logitech, Cordless Desktop Wave Pro, MX1100 Cordles Laser Mouse

The diNovo Edge keyboard is finally coming to the Mac platform as Logitech announced today their first diNovo keyboard specifically designed for the system. The latest diNovo Edge Mac Edition keyboard features a super slim design measuring 1/2 inch thick, a high-gloss semi-translucent Plexiglass frame, sharp angles, and a soft-orange backlighting. The keyboard comes with an aluminum palm rest along with an anodized silver finish. Other specs include:

• One-touch access to Mail, Safari, iTunes, and other Mac apps
• Power button to turn on your Mac
• TouchDisc allows you to scroll and navigate from your keyboard
• Features Logitech’s PerfectStroke key system which creates a longer key travel at 3.2 mm optimized for comfort
• Charging base – four hour charge gives one month of battery life. 10 minute charge gives one day of use
• Bluetooth wireless support

The Logitech diNovo Edge Mac Edition will be available this month for an MSRP of $159.99.

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: Logitech, diNovo Edge Mac Edition

Tired of using the Wii-mote to type characters out on the Wii? Then you’ll want to check out the newly announced  Logitech Cordless Keyboard for the Wii. This compact keyboard utilizes full sized keys and comes with several special system keys (Zoom In/Out, Forward/Back, Quit and OK) designed to make life easier with the Wi. The keyboard has a polished white finish which matches the design of the Nintendo Wii and it communicates with the game console using 2.4GHz wireless technology. Expect the keyboard out in August for an MSRP of $49.99.

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: Logitech Cordless Keyboard for Wii

ExtremeTech has published a review of the ultra-compact Logitech diNovo Mini keyboard here on their website. Designed for home theater PC’s, the diNovo Mini is a compact wireless keyboard with an integrated ClickPad that allows you to control your PC from the comfort of your sofa. Features include:

• Palm-sized keyboard with backlighting
• Integrated dual-purpose ClickPad – use as a touch pad to point and click or as a directional pad to navigate menus
• 63 backlighted keys
• Dedicated Windows Media Center button
• 10 meter range
• Compatible with PlayStation 3
• Rechargeable Li-ion batteries
• Bluetooth 2.0 support

Here’s what ExtremeTech had to say about the keyboard:

If you need limited keyboard functionality for your HTPC or PS3, and don’t want the bulk of a full size keyboard, the diNovo Mini will fit the bill.

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: Logitech diNovo Mini, ExtremeTech, Review

Finally – an answer to my home theater PC prayers – the Logitech diNovo Mini Palm-sized keyboard. Logitech introduced this small cordless keyboard last weekend right before the start of CES 2008 and I managed to snap up a few pictures of the device during the week

The diNovo Mini is a compact, small form factor keyboard which gives you quick access to all of your PC entertainment – including browsing the Internet, watching TV, listening to music, and playing games. It has dedicated Windows Media Center controls, an integrated dual purpose ClickPad and Bluetooth wireless support. This is seriously an answer to my keyboard/mouse prayers for my home theater PC.

Features include:

• Palm-sized mini keyboard
• Integrated dual purpose ClickPad which can be used as a touch pad or a directional pad to navigate menus and make selections
• Rechargeable Li-Ion batteries – one month between charges
• Bluetooth wireless for up to 30 foot range
• Backlighting – two modes – one for media center control and one for cursor control. Keyboard keys are always backlit in orange

You can be sure I’ll be getting my hands on this device to replace my current large keyboard/mouse combination. Even though I use my remote control for 99 percent of the operations on my HTPC, there are still times where I need to use a keyboard and mouse – this is where the Logitech diNovo Mini will be coming into play. It’s small, sexy, and totally ideal for the home environment.

The diNovo Mini will be available later in January for a price of $149.99.

Technorati Tags: Logitech, diNovo Mini, HTPC, CES 2008, Portable Keyboard

If the Optimus Maximus is a bit too much for you, then perhaps you’ll be interested in the Art. Lebedev Studio’s Optimus mini three. This is a small “auxiliary keyboard-informer” with three OLED displays which also act as buttons/keys. The Optimus mini three keyboard can be used as a toolbar, a remote control, an indicator, or an RSS reader.

You can configure each of the three keys to display either a static image or a animated image. The three keys can be associated with programs or run independent of any applications on your PC. The Optimus mini three also works in sync with your keyboard. You can control the layout configuration of the mini three using your keyboard’s modifier keys which include Ctrl, Shift, Alt, and their combinations.

Price for the Optimus mini three is roughly $150 dollars.

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: Art. Lebedev Studio, Optimus mini three, CES 2008

 

I dropped by the Art. Lebedev Studio booth on Monday and promptly checked out their new Optimus Maximus Keyboard. For those of you not familiar with the Optimus Maximus, it’s a keyboard where the buttons contain programming OLED displays built right in. This means you can associate an image and a function to every key that has an OLED display built in. All of the programming is done via a software application and you can literally display any picture you want on an active button.

The OLED displays measure 10.1 x 10.1 mm and have a resolution of 48 x 48. Frame rates are around 10 frames per second which means the buttons can even display video clips.

You can purchase the Optimus Maximus keyboard on their website but be warned – they’re not cheap at all. Here are the prices for the different configurations.

• For one active button (basically one OLED key), it’ll cost you roughly $462 dollars.
• For 10 active buttons, it’ll cost you nearly $600 dollars
• For 47 active buttons, it’ll cost you nearly $1000 dollars
• And for all 113 active buttons, you’ll have to spend $1564 dollars or so.

Here are more pictures of the keyboard. You can find additional information about the keyboard here on their website.

Technorati Tags: Art. Lebedev Studio, Optimus Maximus, Keyboard, OLED, CES 2008

The Gadgeteer has published a review of the moshi celesta slim keyboard here on their website. This is one sexy looking keyboard folks. According to moshi, the celesta was designed to be thin to address the causes of repetitive stress injuries. (think of the new Apple keyboards) Features of the celesta include:

• Ultra slim profile with a height less than an inch high
• Two integrated USB 2.0 ports
• Diamond cut aluminum frame
• Supports OSX multimedia function keys
• Laptop style keys with 9 million stroke lifespan

Here’s what the Gadgeteer thought of the celesta:

The moshi celesta is a stylish keyboard that fits in wonderfully with Macs and other computers. It doesn’t really do anything over and beyond what your stock keyboard will do, but if the $120 price tag doesn’t frighten you away and you want a keyboard that is both slim and sexy, this one fits that criteria perfectly.

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: moshi, celesta, keyboard, The Gadgeteer, Review

The Logitech Cordless Vantage Headset features an adjustable noise-canceling microphone and a patented behind-the-ear design that fits either ear. Features include:

• Noise-canceling microphone reduces background noise for clear intelligible conversations and voice commands
• Rechargeable batteries delivers more than 12 hours of battery life
• Charges via the USB port or via the included wall adapter
• Bluetooth 2.0 + EDR support with 30 foot range
• MSRP of $79.99

The Logitech Cordless MediaBoard Pro allows you to easily and quickly set up profiles, enter URLs, manage accounts, and send text messages on the PlayStation network. The keyboard features:

• Quick media keys simplifying web browsing and access to multimedia functionality
• Bluetooth support
• Integrated touch pad with vertical scrolling eliminating the need for a mouse
• Slim stylish design
• MSRP of $79.99

Technorati Tags: Logitech Cordless Vantage Headset, Logitech Cordless MediaBoard Pro Keyboard

The G9 is a corded laser mouse featuring interchangeable grips, on-the-fly DPI switching from 200 dpi to 3200 dpi, full-speed USB laser tracking, onboard-memory profiling system, weight tuning, a custom color LED, and hyper-fast MicroGear Precision Scroll Wheel. What’s key about the G9 is – nearly everything about the G9 is user customizable. Here are some of the customizable features:

• Interchangeable grips – choose from Wide Load and Precision grips depending on your game playing style
• Save mouse settings directly onto the onboard memory component – store up to five profiles which can include keyboard macros, dpi settings, and LED color
• Customize the sensitivity – between 200 to 3200 dpi
• Customize the weight of the mouse using a weight cartridge providing up to 28 grams of metal weights
• Personalize the color LED display by choosing from hundreds of colors
• Other grips available for purchase

Yes – the G9 Laser Mouse is indeed more than meets the eye ( I just couldn’t help myself there) and it’s available for $99.99.

Meanwhile, fans of the G15 Gaming Keyboard will be happy to hear that there’s a new upgrade to the keyboard (or maybe you won’t be happy if you just purchased the older version). The G15 features an integrated LCD panel to help you keep an eye on game statistics, and crucial system information. Other features include:

• 18 programmable G keys allows you to create 54 possible custom macros per game – on the fly too
• Adjustable folding LCD panel
• Backlit keyboard
• Media keys help you manage the audio and video playback
• Ergonomic design
• Cable management using cord channels
• Two built in full speed USB ports

The Logitech G15 Gaming Keyboard is available for $99.99.

[Check out the G9 Laser Mouse product page]

[Check out the G15 Gaming Keyboard product page]

Technorati Tags: Logitech, G9 Laser Mouse, G15 Gaming Keyboard