ASIMO, Honda’s advanced humanoid robot, will make its first-ever appearance at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) January 5-8 in the Las Vegas Convention Center’s North Hall in the American Honda Booth #6406.

Show-goers will have an hourly opportunity to see ASIMO conduct a live demonstration of its unique technological capabilities on stage in the Honda booth. The demonstration will include functionality never before exhibited in the United States, including balancing on a tilting floor and navigating a slope. The demonstration will also include walking forward and backward, kicking a soccer ball, and climbing and descending a flight of stairs.

PDAToday will be there and with any luck i will try to grab some video to post of the ASIMO.

Pocket PC Thoughts just published their review of the E-TEN M600

QUOTE:

“Back when Windows Mobile 5.0 was hot off the press, E-TEN demonstrated a pre-production M600 at Computex. It was designed as an upgrade to its predecessor, the M500, and also to compete against some of HTC’s well-known Phone Edition devices. Over the months, the hype started building up - with quad-band GSM, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth, would it meet expectations as an all-in-one device? Eager to answer that question, I put it to the test!”

“GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) is a digital technology used for the transmission of most mobile voice and data services as we know it. The number of GSM connections is steadily increasing - as of the third quarter of 2005, there were over 1.5 billion GSM subscribers worldwide. Despite the development and deployment of several 3G technologies, it’s safe to say that GSM is here to stay as a basic means of mobile communication, at least for the foreseeable future. Most GSM networks operate at 900MHz/1800MHz, but there are a small number of networks which operate at 850MHz/1900MHz (primarily in North America). Looking at the past and present, most Pocket PC Phone Edition devices support tri-band GSM (900MHz/1800MHz/1900MHz), but thanks to the M600’s support for the extra band (850MHz), it opens up a whole window of opportunities for roaming - this is something you’ll value if you’re a frequent traveller.”

http://www.pocketpcthoughts.com/articles.php?action=expand,44578

InPad is a combination of handwriting and keyboard input derived strong sides of both these techniques: a simple, familiar handwriting interface and an instant, accurate keyboard processing. InPad doesn’t “recognize” handwritings - it just “inputs” handwritten symbols into a device like a regular keyboard.

Imagine a soft keypad having a few keys. Write a symbol over this keypad. Inpad will highlight and track a sequence of keys actuated during drawing this symbol. Each stroke of an entered symbol will be represented by a sequence of keys crossed by that stroke. Now we can assign symbols to some key sequences based on symbols’ handwriting.

For example, symbol ‘a’ can be assigned to the key sequence {4,3,5,6,4,6}. All assigned key sequences and correspondent symbols are stored in a special dictionary - a layout of InPad. Now we just need find what symbol is assigned to traced sequences in a current layout. That’s it. This is a very simple, accurate and fast handwriting input algorithm of InPad.

http://www.microth.com

The brand new LTB WR-ST Concert Series is a wireless Multi-Band 2.4GHz wireless system utilizes digital transmitting technology with hi-fidelity and maximum range. By utilizing Dual Mode FSK technology, they have assured a true digital connection that is not going to produce static, pops or annoying distortion due to loss of signal.  The 2.4GHz transmitter has 8 multi-band selectable channels allow smooth synchronization with the headset(s).

(let me catch my breath after that deluge of buzzwords, you know me all bananas for “Dual Mode FSK technology”...lol)

LTB Audio Systems focuses attention exclusively on Digital Headphone solutions for Home Theater, Gaming and Audiophiles. The announcement of the new Concert wireless headphones will be followed within the coming weeks by the announcement of the world’s first True 5.1 Six channel Wireless Digital Headphone system called Cinema 1 due out in December.

So where do you find the LTB 5.1 Headphones? Hmmm...checkout Staples.com, QVC.com, Smarthome.com or Techdepot.com or if you fly a lot Skymall.com. Also LTB has a company store at shopltb.com for Headphones and accessories.

Let’s see if they will send us a pair to see how they really sound in a real world test. 

Their new case provides access to all major functions including sync/charge, SD Slot, headset jack, and keypad. A clear window on the back allows use of the 6500’s camera and flash through the case, taking crisp photos even in the rain.

The 6500’s keypad also remains operable with direct push activation through the 1910 and an external stylus holder adds convenience. Retail for the 1910 is $129.95

The OtterBox 1910 is made through an injection molding process and comprised of a glass- reinforced, polycarbonate shell with a thermoplastic rubber overmolding for added drop-protection. The case meets IP67 and MIL SPEC 810F for dust, water, and drop protection.

A user-replaceable screen membrane protects the HP iPaq 6500 screen and an innovative WL Gore membrane vent enables sound transmission, while blocking water and other elements from entering the case.

http://www.otterbox.com/

I love using PDA’s and Smartphones however they just don’t offer all the convenience of a PC like large file storage, native Windows XP apps, etc. Wouldn’t it be nice to have access to all that while mobile?

For a while now I have been using a program on my home PC’s that allows me to remotely access and control any of my PC’s as well as transfers files to wherever I am at. I am referring to a neat app from 3am Labs called LogMeIn.

LogMeIn allows me to access and control a PC via a web browser from anywhere I have internet access using a Windows PC or a Pocket PC. When I log into my account from a Windows Pocket PC the service detects my device and asks me to download their control applet. So then what?

Read: Labs LogMeIn Remote Control Software for Windows Mobile Full Review

Cannons is yet another incarnation of the classic artillery duel game concept.  The game play remains simple.  You take turns with your opponent firing single shots at each others tanks.  Control is limited to ‘Angle’ and ‘Power’.  Terrain varies from round to round which may favor one tank position over the other.  Wind speed may vary from shot to shot increasing the difficulty aiming.  Damage is inflicted based on how close a shot lands near a tank.  Careful, the explosion doesn’t care which tank is near so you can blow yourself up.  Since a direct hit only appears to do about 45% of the damage it takes to finish off a tank, it will take at least three hits to end each round.

In single player mode, the game ends as soon as the player looses a single round of the duel.  While the player is given first shot every round, the variable terrain and wind speed almost always give the player a very difficult starting position to overcome at least every few rounds.  This means that most games are fairly short.  Unless you are very good, the random terrain is going to determine your score more than you are.

Read the full review of Cannons for Windows Mobile Smartphone by PDAMill

A large variety of Bluetooth headsets are now available for almost any mobile phone.  But as features become more advanced and “style” creates large, obtrusive models, it is nice to find a Bluetooth headset that is lightweight, easy to use, and comfortable.

The VIM is very lightweight and easy to wear.  The reversible ear hook makes it adaptable to left or right ears.  A small, rubber tip protrudes a little into the ear to project the sound and is comfortable for most users.  The sound quality is good, but would have been better with more amplification.  Good for most situations, I found the maximum volume to be a little low in noisy environments.

The VIM features:

Full review: Seecode VIM Bluetooth Headset Review

Following the success of RadioFeeds To Go! http://www.radiofeeds.co.uk/pda , a PDA optimised website enabling Pocket PC users to access UK and Ireland radio station webstreams, Radio4PDA http://www.radio4pda.com has been created.

As well as linking to RadioFeeds To Go!, the new site introduces The Mobile Stream Center http://www.thstreamcenter.com/pda , which has a comprehensive list of US radio stations broadcasting live on the internet. So whether you’re an American wanting to listen to your radio station from home’s sports coverage, or you’re from anywhere else on planet Earth and wanting to catch up with the latest hits from the USA, this new site will certainly cater for all your tastes.

Hit The Monkeys for Pocket PC is now available for the price of 6.95$ at clickgamer.com and handago.com

Summary :  Hit a maximum of monkeys in a limited time. A funny start & play game, very simple to play.

Description : Hit The Monkeys is a Pocket PC arcade game. Hit a maximum of monkeys in a limited time. A funny “start & play” game, very simple to play.

HIT THE MONKEYS GAME FEATURES

-A fully touch screen game
-Start and PLAY game
-Very simple to use
-3 Time Modes
-Nice design
-Sound effects
-High Scores

http://www.virtualspaghetti.com

Isotope244 Graphics has a new epic adventure titled Atomic Battle Dragons. In this action and adventure game you fly a dragon and battle several mythical enemies. You play as a dragon knight and uncover a story rooted in medieval mythology. The lands are under siege from Belzom’s evil dragon army and you must joust them to save the kingdom.

In the game you travel through four very unique zones containing over 40 levels. Scattered throughout these zones you will encounter strange and unique beasts to slay, including four huge zone bosses. The game features several different types of game play, such as flying a dragon, shooting a ballista, fighting enemies in the air and on the ground, jousting opponents, adventuring on foot, and collecting magical items and gems.

Webpage:
http://www.isotope244.com/atomic-battle-dragons.html

Pocket PC Demo:
http://www.isotope244.com/files/Atomic-Battle-Dragons-Demo-PPC.exe

Your World Games, announced “The Shroud.” This first of its kind role-playing game promises to deliver the depth of a traditional console game on a mobile phone and at the same time, break new ground in GPS-enabled gameplay.

Unique to The Shroud will be its implementation of GPS functionality. At anytime players can enter into contests by visiting real-world locations to compete for special items and high scores. The community is only heightened by an internet leader-board that will be available to check the rankings, buy and trade items, and share hints and tips with other players.

http://www.yourworldgames.com

Think Outside Inc. creator of the Stowaway Portable Keyboards for handheld devices, announce the availability of the Stowaway Shasta, a portable keyboard designed specifically for Blackberry users.

The new Stowaway Shasta Bluetooth Keyboard and driver offer several unique and revolutionary features, including:

-Full size foldable keyboard - Shasta uses key switch technology that is on par with the best notebook keyboards. It folds into a compact size that is 5.7 x 3.87 x .055 inches and is available in an English QWERTY layout with a 5th row of number keys.

-Hot keys - Shasta has a dedicated key layout for Blackberry users. Users can use hot keys to launch the most common Blackberry applications.

-Bluetooth - Shasta uses Bluetooth technology that removes the need for cumbersome wires.

http://www.thinkoutside.com/

Skyscape announced the release of the Pocket Guide to Breast Cancer Drugs formatted specially for PDAs and smart phones.  The reference is published by Jones and Bartlett and joins Skyscape’s portfolio of more than 300 trusted references in over 35 medical specialties.

“Its intuitive and easy-to-use interface, smARTlink, provides practitioners with instant access to critical information at the point of care.  More than a reference, the Pocket Guide to Breast Cancer Drugs is a powerful decision support tool that eliminates errors and enhances the quality of patient care.” said Sandeep Shah, Skyscape founder.

Practitioners can purchase the reference or download a free trial version by visiting http://www.skyscape.com/estore/ProductDetail.aspx?ProductId=1441

A number of portable, Bluetooth speakerphones are now on the market.  Offering hands-free convenience, ease of use, and portability, these products are a great accessory for the mobile phone user.  Especially a mobile phone user in the car.  With all the new laws concerning use of mobile phones while driving, many companies are bringing new products to the market to meet the demands of these new laws.  While using an earphone does help, a wired earphone can still be distracting and a Bluetooth earphone can be uncomfortable on a long trip.  Some law enforcement officers still discourage the use of any earphone or headphone while driving.  By using Bluetooth, the Speakerphone can be wirelessly connected to the mobile phone and allow the driver to keep both hands on the wheel and eyes focused on the road.

The VISOR Bluetooth Speakerphone is the latest product from the Korea-based Seecode Company.  With its rechargeable battery, compact size, LCD display, built-in dialing, and excellent speaker and microphone performance, it is a great accessory for your mobile phone, both in and out of the car.

Read the full review of the Seecode Visor Bluetooth Speakerphone with Dialer