Fingerprint reader isn't that secure any more ... Fujitsu doesn't think so. That's why they demoed a prototype tablet with a built-in plam reader! Looks pretty cool ... end over to Engadget to watch the video.

"This thing has a 10-inch screen, though its dimensions are considerably larger than on any other 10-incher, as its housing has to accomodate that palm reader. As it happens, though, Fujitsu is already developing a sensor small enough that it could be built into the tablet itself, most likely in the upper bezel. Even so, that won't be ready until at least the end of the year, says a Fujitsu rep. For now, then, the device comes bundled inside a plastic and magnesium enclosure, and the tablet itself will be the same Arrows V F-04E we showed you last week. (It will be sold under the Stylistic, not Arrows, brand in Europe.)"

Source: Engadget

Yes, it's coming wearable tech from Apple ... expect to see iWatch, iBand, iSpecs, iBelt and more ...

"Apple fans rejoice: the next addition to your iCollection -- the so-called "iWatch" -- will reportedly be available later this year. Apple has been testing designs for a smart watch, which would act like a small-scale iPhone. According to Bloomberg, the wearable device will be available later this year and will run iOS.

Apple is currently tweaking certain features, such as increasing battery life to last four or five days (it currently only lasts a couple of days) and working on the iPhone's iOS so it can support the device. Apple also wants to build the watch's iOS from the ground up instead of starting with the iPod nano's touch operating system (which has a screen about the size of a watch).

The tech giant has been talking with manufacturer Hon Hai Precision Industry Co. about the new device, and Hon Hai has been working on new technologies for wearable devices (such as more efficient displays and chips at that size)."

Source: Dailytech

The word mini is the latest craze ... everything is now MINI, just add the word to the end of everything and it'll be cool! ... How about Funky Kit Mini ;) Anyway, the Nintendo Wii Mini will get a UK launch around 22nd March of this year. Cute, I like it!

"Redesigned console and value software begins European push. The Wii Mini will be launching in the UK on March 22, Nintendo has confirmed. The console is a redesigned version of the 100 million-selling Wii system, although it loses some features including wi-fi and internet capabilities.

As well as the redesigned hardware, Nintendo will also be pushing out Mario Party 8, Wii Sports Resort, Mario Power Tennis and Super Paper Mario in the value Nintendo Selects software range. The Wii Mini was first released in Canada last year at a budget price."

Source: GamesIndustry

You have to give credit to HP for trying. Well, in this case ... maybe not. They're stepping back into the tablet game and have just released their 7-inch slate ... but it fails to impress gadget lovers.

"... Unfortunately, for those looking to once again give HP a chance in the tablet game, the specs for the new Slate 7 are very underwhelming -- even for its relatively low starting price of $169.

 
The Slate 7 comes with a dual-core, 1.6GHz Cortex A9 ARM processor, 1GB of RAM, 8GB of storage space (expandable via microSD), and a 1024x600 display. Other lackluster specs include Bluetooth 2.1, a front-facing VGA camera, and a 3MP shooter on the back. The device runs a stock version of Android 4.1.
 
The Slate 7 does include Beats Audio onboard and HP's ePrint functionality, but that's likely not enough to sway consumers from competitive offerings like the Google Nexus 7."

Source: Dailytech

The five rules of writing for journalists can also apply to anyone who is considering investing in one of new generation of smartphones, tablets or laptops that are on the market.  

1. Who?

The first rule to consider is whom the gadget is being bought for as well as who you are going to select as your manufacturer. The Apple range of iPads is becoming increasingly popular, as it is so incredibly versatile.   If you’re worried about the cost of investment then a quick search online will reveal that there is a growing market in goods and you can either buy, or more usefully sell iPad tablets of any age should you find that the product doesn’t suit you.

Sony officially announced the the long waited PlayStation 4 at a recent press event in New York. However, there was no console to be seen, instead the crowds were given a glimpse of PS4's new controller that features a "share" button. Mmmm... I wonder what that button will do huh? It will interesting to see whether gamers will warm to it... the specs and game titles certainly looks attractive, only time will tell.

Given time, Sony's PlayStation 4 announcement may be seen as the turning point for its fortunes or, perhaps, a squandered opportunity. Luckily the internet doesn't delay and delivers gigabytes of insight of a major tech event such as this within minutes.

Source: BBC

Looks kind of funky ... but that disn't stop Novo modifying the GoPro Hero3 to accept C-Mount lenses.

"Having a hard time coming to grips with the GoPro Hero3's permanently affixed wide-angle lens? Perhaps an interchangeable optic is within your field of view. The Novo Digital Camera, designed and painstakingly assembled by View Factor, is a Hero3 with a new custom housing, offering compatibility with C-Mount lenses while providing additional functionality, such as exposure control, digital zoom and customizable buttons. Unfortunately, due to the complex assembly, Novo won't be available for sale.

Instead, Radiant Images in Los Angeles will offer the rig as a rental kit, including a variety of lenses and accessories. Pricing and availability has yet to be announced, though we should have a better idea of when you can (temporarily) scoop one of these up "in the next couple weeks." For now, the mass-market Hero3 will have to do."

Source: Engadget

Interesting concept ... but will it take off? I know a lot of BB users aren't used to typing on flat touch screens. There's no tactile feeling and therefore it does feels a little weird when you're typing on a flat touch screens. This new keyboard technology could be the answer ...

"Fremont, Calif.-based, Tactus Technology uses microfluidics to make physical keys bubble up from the surface of a touch screen when you need to type and disappear, when you don't. Microfluidics may sound foreign, but if you've operated an inkjet printer you've used the technology.

... So how do keys appear out of nowhere? It starts with a panel that has channels built into it. The channels are filled with a non-toxic fluid. By increasing the pressure in the channels, the fluid pushes up the surface of the panel, creating an actual key. What's more, Tactus says the pressure will be adjustable, so the keys could feel a bit squishy, like a gel pack or they could be harder, like the plastic keys on a laptop."

Source: C|Net