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PayPal and Softbank announce new joint venture in Japan, mobile app

Anthony Verrecchio — Wed, 09 May 2012 15:31:00 EST

PayPal has joined forces with Softbank to bring its mobile payment system / digital wallet to Japan. PayPal Here uses an encrypted card reader -- like its BFF Square, and more recently, VeriFone -- to minimize users' cash dependency. There's also a redesigned app that makes it easier for customers to locate participating merchants while they're out and about. The $25 million joint venture targets small businesses, especially those using iPhones (though it also works just fine on Android), and will be made available to the Japanese masses over the next several weeks. We're sure the setup will be used exclusively by the forces of good to stimulate the local economy.

PayPal and Softbank announce new joint venture in Japan, mobile app originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 09 May 2012 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Eventbrite unveils At The Door Card reader, turns iPads into ticketing terminals

Michael Gorman — Tue, 20 Mar 2012 23:39:00 EST

Square may see the iPad to as an excellent retail tool, but Eventbrite thinks Apple's tablet a box office boon, which is why it created the At The Door app and card reader solution. Eventbrite's a self-service ticketing platform and its new dongle, which connects via Apple's 30-pin connector, lets indie event promoters take reader-encrypted credit card payments with any iPad. Meanwhile, the app lets you see on-site and online ticket sales, keep track of customer contact info and balance the books as well. Plus, any payments taken through the app are service fee-free, meaning users only pay for credit card processing. Not only that, you can wirelessly print tickets and receipts via a compatible printer (should you be willing to buy one), too. But before you go planning your personal Woodstock, perhaps you'd like to know how much this ticketing bonanza costs? Well, the app's free and the reader's 10 bucks, with Eventbrite handing out 10 dollar account credits in return for those who jump on the bandwagon. If that sounds like something you're into, hit the PR after the break for more info, or buy a card reader at the source below.

Continue reading Eventbrite unveils At The Door Card reader, turns iPads into ticketing terminals

Eventbrite unveils At The Door Card reader, turns iPads into ticketing terminals originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 20 Mar 2012 23:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Square snags one million merchants, liberates the cashless

Lydia Leavitt — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 03:08:00 EST

For those of us addicted to plastic, "I love you" hardly holds the same clout as those three magical words: "we accept credit." Taking the dream one step closer to plastic payment monogamy is the mobile checkout service, Square. According to founder Jack Dorsey, the company has hit a milestone today, signing up over one million small business owners ready to swipe. For merchants, all it takes is a Square reader and an iPhone, iPad or Android to start processing the plastic of the cash-o-phobic -- practically rendering those ATM pit stops pre-taco run or flea market excursion useless.

Square snags one million merchants, liberates the cashless originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 14 Dec 2011 03:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Engadget's back to school guide 2011: fun stuff!

Zach Honig — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EST

Welcome to Engadget's Back to School guide! We know that this time of year can be pretty annoying and stressful for everyone, so we're here to help out with the heartbreaking process of gadget buying for the school-aged crowd. Since the weekend is finally upon us, we figured now's as good a time as any to sit back, relax, and have some fun. Play along with our fun stuff picks -- and you can head to the Back to School hub to see the rest of the product guides as they're added throughout the month. Be sure to keep checking back -- at the end of the month we'll be giving away a ton of the gear featured in our guides -- and hit up the hub page right here!

It's Friday, and that can only mean one thing: two days of parties, sleeping in, and seeing your campus transform from a vehicle of intense education to a spring break-like haven of drunken delight. We've rounded up a few toys to help you relax before you head back to class -- a memory card reader that doubles as a pocket mirror, an Arduino-powered car that can stream video from the dorm hall, and an electric-powered sports car that can drive you and a friend far from campus for a pricey weekend getaway -- so kick off the shoes and prepare to embrace these 48 hours of freedom. And when it's time to get back to the books, we have the gear for that too -- and we're giving it away! Simply leave a comment below to be entered to win, and check out our giveaway page for more details.

Continue reading Engadget's back to school guide 2011: fun stuff!

Engadget's back to school guide 2011: fun stuff! originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 19 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Square Register and Card Case hands-on

Christopher Trout — Mon, 23 May 2011 16:01:00 EST

It looks like Square's little headphone jack-connected credit card reader has some company. The mobile payment startup introduced two new additions to its unique stable of payment options in San Francisco this morning that do away with credit cards, paper receipts, and even the bantam reader itself (to some degree). First up is the Square Register, an app that allows merchants to accept payments by way of the card reader or through a card-less (no, it's not NFC) tab -- like, "put it on my tab" -- system, and uses Google-style analytics to keep track of payments, receipts, and trends. The second announcement, the Square Card Case, is a virtual wallet that holds a series of "cards," each relating to a participating outlet, that let you put your purchases on the aforementioned tab. Each shop has its own virtual credit card, and enables shoppers to make and track purchases with a single click of a button. We got a chance to give the setup a try, and it's just about as simple as Square would have you believe.

To get started, you make a regular, Square-enabled purchase at a participating store, at which point a text-message receipt is sent to your phone that prompts you to install Card Case -- we skipped this step, as this was just a demo. Once set up, we were introduced to the Card Case, holding cards for the participating stores -- only 50 spots in five cities, for now -- and an "Explore Places" button that offers access to a directory of participating outlets. We selected a nearby cupcake stand, clicked "open tab" and picked our poison: a miniature red velvet cupcake, in this case. The merchant picked our name from a list of open tabs, charged the tiny treat to our card, and a receipt was promptly pushed our way. After the transaction was complete, we went back to the cupcake card in the Card Case, and there was the receipt. All in all it was a painless process, but, then, so is whipping out a real wallet to make a purchase. The new Square setup is available now at 50 different establishments in New York, LA, Saint Louis, San Francisco, and DC, and the company says it will curate the list of participating stores, much like Apple does apps.

Gallery: Square Register and Card Case hands-on

Filed under: Cellphones, Software

Square Register and Card Case hands-on originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 23 May 2011 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Lexar dual-slot CF / SD reader packs USB 3.0, downloads cards six times faster (video)

Zach Honig — Fri, 20 May 2011 04:11:00 EST

For professional photographers, every second counts when downloading images on a deadline -- especially when you throw enormous HD video files into the mix. With the $50 Lexar Professional USB 3.0 Dual-Slot Reader, photogs now have a fast transfer option to compliment their pricey high-capacity CF and UHS-I SDXC cards, theoretically enabling downloads at up to 500MB per second (though current cards max out at one-fifth of that). You'll need to have a USB 3.0 port and high-speed flash to take advantage of faster transfers, though the reader is backwards-compatible with USB 2.0 and older cards -- you'll even be able to use that 32MB CF that came bundled with your DSLR. And what about appearance? Lexar Director of Marketing Jeff Cable sums it up: "It looks similar to our older card reader, the USB 2.0 reader, except that it says USB 3.0 right here on the front." Bam!

Continue reading Lexar dual-slot CF / SD reader packs USB 3.0, downloads cards six times faster (video)

Lexar dual-slot CF / SD reader packs USB 3.0, downloads cards six times faster (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 20 May 2011 04:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Apple Stores stocking Square credit card readers

Brian Heater — Thu, 21 Apr 2011 18:02:00 EST

Jack Dorsey's über-popular credit card readers got a big thumbs-up from Cupertino this week. Square's devices are hitting Apple's 235 US retail locations and Apple.com for $9.95 a pop -- plus the 2.75 percent that the startup takes off the backend each time you use the reader -- or you can always just sign up for a free one over on Square's site. The iPhone / iPad / iPod touch plug-in accepts Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and yes, even American Express. The CEO of VeriFone will no doubt have plenty to say about the matter.

Update: It turns out you get a $10 redemption code in the box when you buy a Square reader at an Apple store, so it is still technically free (just not, you know, when you buy it).

[Thanks, Michael]

Apple Stores stocking Square credit card readers originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 21 Apr 2011 18:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Minuscule PicoHD5.1 media player looks like a card reader, acts like a media streamer

Darren Murph — Wed, 20 Apr 2011 12:21:00 EST

What if your media streamer was as small as your media card reader? What if your list of "what ifs" shrunk by one this evening? And what if, by chance, said media streamer shipped with a remote nearly double the size of the product itself? We'll confess, it'd be a weird, weird situation, but it's one that you can actually experience for yourself if you're cool with handing over £49.99 ($82). The bantam PicoHD5.1 packs a lot of oomph into a pocket-sized device; on one side, there's room for a USB hard drive, thumb drive or SD card. On the reverse, you'll find HDMI / component outputs capable of piping whatever media you just plugged in onto your television or monitor. There's even support for 5.1 channel surround sound, and we're told that it's encased in aluminum -- you know, for those inevitable bumps and bruises. Is the "smallest HD multichannel media player" truly as spectacular as it sounds? Hard to say from afar, but hey, that's what 60 day money-back guarantees are for... right?

Minuscule PicoHD5.1 media player looks like a card reader, acts like a media streamer originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 20 Apr 2011 12:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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This year's hottest pocket mirror is also a USB 3.0 multi-format card reader

Darren Murph — Wed, 30 Mar 2011 16:55:00 EST

We always knew that the worlds of technology and popular culture were on a collision course of epic proportions, and if this isn't proof... well, you might say that proof simply doesn't exist. Brando's newest gizmo has an identity crisis that Charlie Sheen would simply salivate over, but if we had to guess, we'd surmise that a USB 3.0 SuperSpeed card reader -- complete with support for CompactFlash, SDXC and M2 cards -- does a lot more #winning with a mirror slapped onto the side. Pre-order yours today for the tidy sum of $25, or alternatively, a vial of #tigerblood.

This year's hottest pocket mirror is also a USB 3.0 multi-format card reader originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 30 Mar 2011 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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iPad, iPad 2 get unofficial CF card compatibility (video)

Christopher Trout — Sat, 26 Mar 2011 12:49:00 EST

Given the impressive knockoffs and official camera kits we've seen, we'd say the iPad's definitely got the stuff to help out most shutterbugs, but up until now, uploading content from a CF card wasn't exactly easy. Well, our friends over at MIC Gadget recently showed off an iPad / iPad 2-compatible card reader that fixes that on the cheap. Simply called the CF card reader for iPad and iPad 2, the thing slips right into the slate's dock connector port and, as you can see from the video below, it transfers HD video and high-res images in a snap -- it also sports USB connectivity. Like its predecessor, the reader's available from MIC for $29.90, but you'll have to wait at least a month to get your hands on one. Oh, and a word of warning, you might want to make sure the iPad supports your camera's video format before shelling out the dough, as MIC found the slab couldn't playback video from a Canon EOS 5D Mark II.

Continue reading iPad, iPad 2 get unofficial CF card compatibility (video)

iPad, iPad 2 get unofficial CF card compatibility (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 26 Mar 2011 12:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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j5 Create's device / data sharing peripherals leave us cautiously optimistic

Christopher Trout — Thu, 20 Jan 2011 12:07:00 EST

We're dying to find out more about j5 Create's line of attractive and ambitious peripherals, but we're not entirely sure they actually exist. The company's website features six different data and device sharing products -- the JUC100 Wormhole KM Switch offers keyboard and mouse functionality across two devices; the JUA230 DVI Display Adapter connects up to six monitors with three different display modes; and the JUH320 Wormhole Station brings together shared keyboard and mouse access with two USB 3.0 ports and a memory card reader. j5's website promises stylish connectivity, featuring sleek product renderings and a flash presentation that provides, ahem, inspirational insight -- swans, flutes, ballerinas -- but no talk of finished products, price, or availability. Additionally, we haven't found any of these devices for sale online, despite the fact that the brand's parent company, KaiJet, is an established manufacturer of peripherals in Taiwan. So, yes, there's a chance that someone out there is hooked up to a Wormhole Station right now, but we wouldn't bet our diamond-encrusted iPhone on it.

j5 Create's device / data sharing peripherals leave us cautiously optimistic originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 20 Jan 2011 12:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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AirStash wireless flash drive with media streaming and WebDAV update hands-on (video)

Richard Lai — Thu, 06 Jan 2011 10:21:00 EST

Remember our good friends from AirStash at last year's CES? Well, this year they're back with the same wireless storage dongle, but now bolstered with a new firmware and smarter ways of transferring files to and from your mobile devices. As before, the AirStash is essentially an SD card reader that can be accessed as an ordinary USB storage device, or a basic read-only file server via WiFi tethering, meaning the host device doesn't require a card reader or a USB host. Upon requests from many users, AirStash is now finalising an HTML5-based web app and a free native iOS app, both of which offer in-app image browsing and media streaming, including HD videos and Apple DRM content on iOS (associated with the appropriate Apple ID, of course).

What really surprised us was the claim that the AirStash's minuscule 600mAh cell can do streaming for around five hours, regardless of the media type. That said, we were only given a demo with a standard-definition video clip, and even that took about 25 seconds to buffer over 802.11g WiFi, so you can imagine how many sunsets you might see while waiting for an HD clip to load. With about a full month away from release, AirStash thinks it can push the loading speed up in time for launch, so we shall see. Read on to see the other new features.

Gallery: AirStash wireless flash drive with media streaming and WebDAV update hands-on

Continue reading AirStash wireless flash drive with media streaming and WebDAV update hands-on (video)

AirStash wireless flash drive with media streaming and WebDAV update hands-on (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 06 Jan 2011 10:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Elecom's rotating USB memory card reader tries not to block your ports

Donald Melanson — Wed, 27 Oct 2010 07:54:00 EST

It's still not a substitute for a built-in memory card reader in a laptop, but Elecom's new MR-C25 Series USB memory card reader might just be the next best thing. In addition to reading both SD and microSD cards, it's able to rotate a full 180 degrees to give you access to ports on either side of the card reader. From the looks of things, you may still run into some problems with ports that are particularly close together (and with bulky plugs or devices), but it should definitely prevent at least some unwanted USB swapping. Unfortunately, there's no still word on a price or release over here just yet, but it does apparently come in both black and white to better match your laptop.

Elecom's rotating USB memory card reader tries not to block your ports originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 27 Oct 2010 07:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Elecom's 47-in-1 MR-A005 card reader gains SDXC support, speed boost

Darren Murph — Wed, 15 Sep 2010 20:29:00 EST

Frankly, we've our doubts that this planet is even home to 47 different useful types of flash cards, but if you're Boy Scout instincts simply won't let you leave the house unprepared, there's Elecom's MR-A005. It's a familiar design, sure, but what it lacks in ingenuity it makes up for in compatibility. This is one of the first mega-multi-card readers to support SDXC, and we're told that this model is around 20 percent faster than its predecessor when writing to CompactFlash (not to mention 10 percent faster when writing to SDHC). And hey, it's available in four triumphant colors. Check it later this month in Japan for around 30 bones.

Elecom's 47-in-1 MR-A005 card reader gains SDXC support, speed boost originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 15 Sep 2010 20:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Square payment system is coming back in full force by 'late summer'

Vlad Savov — Wed, 04 Aug 2010 05:27:00 EST

Unsurprisingly, given the small company and big ambitions behind the project, the Square mobile payments system got off to a shaky start earlier this year. Hardware shortages were resolved relatively quickly, but setting up the proper fraud prevention infrastructure without transactional limits -- which, shockingly, were disfavored by merchants -- threatened to shelve the little credit card reader for a long while. Not to worry, though, as today the Wall Street Journal has word that Square is looking to be back in business, kicking ass and taking card numbers, before the summer is through. We're now at an advanced stage of said season, so it shouldn't be too long before those dongle-assisted microtransactions start flowing again.

Square payment system is coming back in full force by 'late summer' originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 04 Aug 2010 05:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Lenovo IdeaCentre A300 and Multimedia Keyboard review

Vlad Savov — Sun, 20 Jun 2010 17:01:00 EST

Lenovo seems to have developed a clear two-pronged strategy: for business, it leans on the knowhow and tradition it purchased from IBM with the demure Think line, and for the consumer end, it's developed its own, oftentimes flamboyant, Idea range of computers. Prime example of the latter is the IdeaCentre A300, which features an edge-to-edge glass screen, chrome accenting aplenty, and an unhealthily thin profile. As such, it's one of the more unashamed grabs for the hearts and minds of desktop aesthetes, so we had to bring it in for a test drive and see what we could see. Lenovo also sent us one of its diminutive Multimedia Keyboard remotes to have a play around with. Follow the break for our review of both.

Gallery: Lenovo IdeaCentre A300 review

Gallery: Lenovo Multimedia Keyboard review

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Lenovo IdeaCentre A300 and Multimedia Keyboard review originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 20 Jun 2010 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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AirStash brings the WiFi, neglects the storage, for a cent under $100

Vlad Savov — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 10:19:00 EST

When we last saw the AirStash, it was keeping its mystique about it and refusing to disclose any salient details beyond the fact that it'll function as a wireless SD/SDHC card reader. Today, the fog of war is lifted with the news that the AirStash is now officially on sale for $99.99, and will come with a battery good for five hours of continuous data streaming. Marketed primarily at iPhone OS devices, it creates a wireless network that allows any WiFi and browser-equipped computer to access the storage cards within it. The UI is built around HTML5 and recharging is done via a USB connection, which also turns the AirStash into a simple SDHC card adapter when plugged in. Check out our hands-on with it from CES over here and look for a full review coming up shortly. We do care so very deeply our portable storage.

AirStash brings the WiFi, neglects the storage, for a cent under $100 originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 16 Mar 2010 10:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Elecom introduces SDXC-compatible card reader, waits for you to afford SDXC cards

Darren Murph — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 09:29:00 EST

Panasonic's duo of SDXC cards should be shipping out this month, which means that you'll be needing a new card reader on the double. Of course, it's not like you're really about to pay upwards of $450 for 32GB of wicked fast Secure Digital storage (or $600 for the 64 gigger), but hey, it's hard to knock Elecom for being proactive. Said outfit has just released what looks to be the first multicard readers to openly support SDXC, with the MR-A001BK handling ten formats and the MR-A002 supporting a grand total of 32 -- some of which haven't been used regularly since Vikings ruled the north. Both are expected to ship in Japan later this month, with pricing set for ¥1,890 ($21) and ¥2,415 ($27) in order of mention.

Elecom introduces SDXC-compatible card reader, waits for you to afford SDXC cards originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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zoomMediaPlus' zoomIt is the iPhone's long overdue SD card reader

Paul Miller — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 16:14:00 EST

Sorry if we're the sort of folks to look a gift SD card reader in the mouth, but while we're oh-so-happy that Apple finally opened up application-enabled hardware development in iPhone OS 3.0, we really wish an accessory like this had been available for the iPhone right from the start. The new zoomIt SD card reader from zoomMediaPlus adds a bit of external, swappable memory to the iPhone and iPod touch at long last, giving you the ability to store your iPhone's pictures on the card, or pull stuff off it onto your handset using the free zoomIt app. Interestingly, this is coming to light just a couple weeks after we saw Apple's own similar solution for getting cameras into the iPad mix -- the SD and USB-adapting iPad Camera Connection Kit, which will be a mere $30. There's no word if Apple's adapter will work with the iPhone (we doubt it) or if the zoomIt will work with the iPad (perhaps), but the $60 pricetag on the zoomIt is a bit of a turn off. Also, it won't be shipping until April (though you can pre-order now for a $10 discount), so Apple may very well make up our minds for us by the time March rolls around.

zoomMediaPlus' zoomIt is the iPhone's long overdue SD card reader originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 16:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Addonics intros two eSATA-enabled multicard readers for the brave and gullible

Darren Murph — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 16:22:00 EST

There's no denying that the two newest multicard readers from Addonics can connect to one's PC via eSATA as well as the conventional USB 2.0 method, but frankly, we've our doubts about the honest-to-goodness speed benefits of linking through the former. The outfit claims that when its (external) Pocket eSATA / USB DigiDrive is hooked up with an eSATA cable, any flash media you insert can be used as a bootable device with read / write speeds of up to 150MB/sec, but of course you'll want to slap the quickest SDHC or CompactFlash card you can find in there to fully take advantage of the extra bandwidth. There's also an internal version for those tired of looking at the gaping hole where your floppy drive used to be, and considering that both retail for $59.99, you'll probably spend the next four or five hours just choosing which you really need.

Addonics intros two eSATA-enabled multicard readers for the brave and gullible originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 15 Dec 2009 16:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Vertu V makes no concessions: $730 BT headset, $490 card reader, and $330 ballpoint pen

Ross Miller — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 01:53:00 EST

Because nothing says "I ain't afraid of no recession" like plopping down an excess amount of Benjamins for a Bluetooth earpiece, Vertu has unveiled its V accessories collection. $780 gets you a Bluetooth 2.1-compliant earpiece with 6 hours of charge time (same one we saw hit the FCC recently, we suspect), $490 for a USB memory card reader that as a consolation prize comes with a 2GB microSD card, and as for the ballpoint pen, asking price is a cool $330. For all three purchases, it's recommended you purchase the special leather case for protection -- and if these gifts are already comfortably in your price range, hey, why not?

[Thanks, Shayjd]

Vertu V makes no concessions: $730 BT headset, $490 card reader, and $330 ballpoint pen originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 11 Dec 2009 01:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Elecom's simplistic multicard reader mounts nicely on walls, desks

Darren Murph — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 09:20:00 EST

Still using that heap from 1999 that shipped sans a multicard reader? We know, it's tough. As does Elecom, who has just pumped out a foursome of new flash card readers for those less fortunate among us. The token one, however, is the sticky guy pictured above, which can actually be mounted on one's wall or desk side in order to maintain your precious desk space up top. You know -- 'cause all that paperwork scattered about is so critical. Mum's the word on a price or release date, but if we had to guess, we'd say "cheap" and "soon enough."

[Via Akihabara News]

Filed under: Peripherals

Elecom's simplistic multicard reader mounts nicely on walls, desks originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 28 Oct 2009 09:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Kingston's MobileLiteG2 card reader makes your thumb look huge

Darren Murph — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 22:42:00 EST

There's diminutive, and then there's Kingston's MobileLiteG2 card reader. The second-generation of this here reader supports a wide variety of formats (SD, SDHC, microSD, microSDHC, Memory Stick PRO Duo, Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo and Memory Stick Micro), and it also boasts retractable covers on each side to protect the USB connector and the memory card. At just 2.45- x 1.16- x 0.646-inches in size, there's an 87.425 percent chance that you'll lose this before the MobileLiteG3 comes out, but honestly, that's probably a-okay with Kingston. Those looking to downsize in a big way can order this bugger up for $11 (for the reader itself), $28.50 (bundled with a 4GB SDHC card) or $46 (bundled with an 8GB SDHC card).

[Via OhGizmo]

Filed under: Storage

Kingston's MobileLiteG2 card reader makes your thumb look huge originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 08 Oct 2009 22:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Samsung N310 renamed Go, befriends bacteria

Vlad Savov — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 06:35:00 EST

Pre-order availability of this netbook has turned into a full-blown US-wide shelf invasion. BestBuy and Newegg are ready to ship you one right now, with the latter offering the better price at $449. Now known as the Samsung Go, the N310 pimps the oh-so-standard Atom N270, 1GB RAM, 160GB HDD internal spec with a 10.1-inch 1024 x 600 resolution display. There's also a 1.3-megapixel webcam, WiFi, Bluetooth, MMC/SD card reader, and a pebble / chiclet / isolation keyboard. What seems to be missing from the Euro version is the anti-bacterial keyboard coating, which may be an accidental omission or it may indicate that using Silver Nano Technology proved more costly than a gimmick ought to be.

[Via Portable Monkey]

Filed under: Laptops

Samsung N310 renamed Go, befriends bacteria originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 16 Jul 2009 06:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Brando's latest HDD dock adds HDMI into the mix

Tim Stevens — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 12:47:00 EST

There are apparently an awful, awful lot of people out there with shoe boxes full of spare SATA drives. Somebody is buying all these new HDD docks, and while most surpass the previous editions by adding support for another obscure format of memory card, Brando's latest seems like an actually useful update, adding HDMI and component ports through which it can output video at either 1080i or the always popular 576p. Standard resolutions may not be its strong point, and sadly there's no mention of which video codecs it can unravel, but it does at least support the major flavors of audio files (MP3, WMA, AAC, etc.) and of course will read memory cards and thumb drives to boot. No, a bare drive may not look particularly appealing while rattling away on your entertainment center, and at $69 you're not far from the price of a Windows Media extender or the like, but don't let such practical concerns dissuade you from adding this unique focal point to your home theater.

Filed under: Storage

Brando's latest HDD dock adds HDMI into the mix originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 01 Jun 2009 12:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Multicard-lovin' dual SATA HDD dock keeps the dream alive

Darren Murph — Wed, 20 May 2009 20:19:00 EST

It's funny, really. Years back, we figured this SATA HDD dock was a one-off device that would get swept under the rug as quickly as it reached prominence. And yet, here we are in May of 2009 looking at the latest iteration of a product that won't ever stop reinventing itself. Brando's Dual SATA HDD Multi-Function Dock with One Touch Backup (yeah, seriously) doubles up on elder models by holding two 2.5- or 3.5-inch hard drives, and it also accepts a litany of flash cards. Lastly, this adds an eSATA connector to the traditional USB 2.0 socket for a bit more flexibility, but we still can't justify the $89 price if you already own a predecessor (or three).

Filed under: Peripherals, Storage

Multicard-lovin' dual SATA HDD dock keeps the dream alive originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 20 May 2009 20:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Dexim MHub mixes up an iPod dock with a USB hub

Nilay Patel — Sat, 09 May 2009 16:40:00 EST

We're actually sort of surprised that we haven't seen many more iPod dock / USB hub / card reader hybrids, but the Dexim MHub here is the only one we can recall seeing apart from the Griffin Simplifi. At a steep $70, it's certainly not the cheapest way to add three USB ports and an SD card reader, but it certainly does look nice. Should be on sale now.

[Via Gear Diary]

Filed under: Misc. Gadgets

Dexim MHub mixes up an iPod dock with a USB hub originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 09 May 2009 16:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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EagleTec's NanoSac MicroSD Card reader makes mouse balls look big

Thomas Ricker — Tue, 05 May 2009 05:59:00 EST

We've got a thing for size, who doesn't? So check this USB 2.0 NanoSac MicroSD Card Reader from EagleTec. You can casually carry it around in any empty USB slot and then slip in your MicroSD/MicroSDHC card when you need a quick read/write. It's like EagleTec's Nano flash drive except with removable flash. For $18, we say why not. Hot NanoSac in the jack action after the break.

[Via Brando]

Continue reading EagleTec's NanoSac MicroSD Card reader makes mouse balls look big

Filed under: Storage

EagleTec's NanoSac MicroSD Card reader makes mouse balls look big originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 05 May 2009 05:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sonnet's Qio eSATA controller / all-in-one card reader

Joseph L. Flatley — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 13:37:00 EST

Sonnet's a fun little company -- when not hustling iPod chargers and transmitters, it's providing the world with more sober, serious hardware, such as its RAID storage solutions. Among the company's newest kit is Qio, a media card reader / writer that includes a E4P SATA host controller, four eSATA ports, and the usual array of P2, SxS and CompactFlash slots. If that weren't enough, this device also includes an adapter so that your SD and XF cards don't feel left out. Available for both desktop (PCIe) and laptop owners (ExpressCard), the HDD controller supports port multipliers allowing users to access up to 20 drives. Available sometime next month, pricing to be determined.

Filed under: Peripherals

Sonnet's Qio eSATA controller / all-in-one card reader originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 22 Apr 2009 13:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Magic Cube all-in-one card reader rotates, impresses

Laura June — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 04:21:00 EST

Multi-card readers? Sure, they're usually kind of a snooze... but this one's pretty cute. The so-called Magic Cube All-in-One reader -- which looks not a little like a Rubik's cube -- is a 56-in-one jack of all trades (microSD, SDHC, SD, xD, you name it) which tranfers up to 480Mb per second, and comes with a USB to mini USB cable. You can own this puppy (for Windows and Linux) for $9.99.

Magic Cube all-in-one card reader rotates, impresses originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 15 Apr 2009 04:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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USB extension cable arrives with inline card reader

Darren Murph — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 12:36:00 EST

You know, sometimes it's just the simple things in life that really bring a smile to one's face. Take this cable, for instance. At first glance, it's really nothing more than a USB extension cable (USB A Male-to-mini USB) with an odd protrusion in the middle. Sort of like a snake that's only halfway done digesting its latest meal. Gross analogies aside, that bulge is actually an SD card reader that's also capable of handling SDHC, miniSD and microSD formats. The whole cord measures 2.43 feet long and costs just $11.99 -- can you say "geek stocking stuffer?"

Filed under: Peripherals, Storage

USB extension cable arrives with inline card reader originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 18 Mar 2009 12:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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SanDisk ships first ever multicard readers with style

Darren Murph — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 16:56:00 EST

Okay, so maybe you've seen a multicard reader or two in your day that wasn't unsightly to the nth degree, but it's a rarity, let us tell you. Furthermore, SanDisk's latest bunch are amongst the first we've seen that we'd actually feel somewhat proud to have sitting on our desks, and considering that there's only so much added functionality you can give these things, aiming for high fashion was probably a good move. The new line of ImageMate readers are currently shipping out to retailers in North America, with the All-In-One reader listing at $29.99 and the Multi-Card reader selling for $10 less.

Gallery: SanDisk ships first ever multicard readers with style

Filed under: Peripherals, Storage

SanDisk ships first ever multicard readers with style originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 25 Feb 2009 16:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Micro Innovations's bamboo lineup might just save the world... from generic computer peripherals

Paul Miller — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 22:03:00 EST

Our Panda-like obsession with bamboo is really paying off of late, what with the hundreds of bamboo ASUS laptops scattered around the Engadget HQ, the few dozen cubicles we've built out of Dell Studio Hybrid sleeves, and now this complete line of bamboo peripherals from Micro Innovations. Sure, they're ugly and a little low on tech -- the speakers, card reader, webcam, USB hub, keyboard and mouse couldn't be any more generic in specifications -- and as far as we can tell there's nothing particularly "green" about the typical-seeming internals, but apparently the (undisclosed) pricing is right. Most of this stuff should be available through your electronics retailer of choice in April or May.

Filed under: Peripherals

Micro Innovations's bamboo lineup might just save the world... from generic computer peripherals originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 12 Feb 2009 22:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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5-in-1 multi-function MP3 player could use a plug from Billy Mays

Darren Murph — Sun, 18 Jan 2009 14:53:00 EST

In theory, we can't really harsh on a diminutive little gizmo that can play back MP3s, record voice notes, capture live video, snap a few stills and double as a card reader in a pinch, but there's just something about this thing that screams infomercial. As for specs, it's got 2GB of built-in memory, a microSD expansion slot, USB 2.0 connectivity, a rechargeable Li-ion and a 3.5-millimeter headphone jack. Unfortunately, the thing's selling for an almost astronomical $60 before shipping, which definitely pushes it into "won't ever sell without Billy Mays' endorsement" territory. Seriously, check the vid after the jump if you think you're immune to coercion.

Continue reading 5-in-1 multi-function MP3 player could use a plug from Billy Mays

Filed under: Digital Cameras, Misc. Gadgets

5-in-1 multi-function MP3 player could use a plug from Billy Mays originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 18 Jan 2009 14:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Griffin intros Simplifi iPod dock / card reader / USB hub

Donald Melanson — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 16:26:00 EST

Griffin may occasionally help out those that like to complicate their lives, but it also thankfully caters to those of us that prefer to keep things simple, and it looks like its new, appropriately-named Simplifi dock should appeal to quite a few in the latter camp. As you can see, it'll not only accommodate a single iPod or iPhone, but your media cards of choice, and a pair of USB devices (the ports are on the back). It also includes an AC adapter for devices that required a powered USB port, which can be conveniently ditched if its not needed. You will pay a bit of a premium for clearing all that clutter though, as the device sports a somewhat hefty $70 price tag.

Filed under: Peripherals, Portable Audio

Griffin intros Simplifi iPod dock / card reader / USB hub originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 26 Sep 2008 16:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nervian's CardReader Pro fits right in with PowerMac G5 / Mac Pro

Darren Murph — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 05:53:00 EST

As your never-ending quest to find peripherals specifically made to match beautifully with your PowerMac G5 / Mac Pro continues, we've one that'll surely shoot right to the top of your must-have list. Nervian's CardReader Pro slips just under the front handle of your tower, providing (almost) integrated card reader functionality without putting a damper on your rig's style. Better still, the USB 2.0 unit supports 52 different flavors of flash memory, ensuring that just about every card you toss in there will mount in short order. There's no word on how costly this will be when it ships in October, but those definitely interested can nab 15% off by signing up for details at the outfit's website.

[Thanks, choco]

Filed under: Desktops, Peripherals, Storage

Nervian's CardReader Pro fits right in with PowerMac G5 / Mac Pro originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 18 Aug 2008 05:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Crapgadget: brick satellite covers, ladybug card readers and more laughable abominations

Darren Murph — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 20:30:00 EST

You know what's lamer than the thought of just how close 7:00AM on a Monday morning is from now? These five gadgets. Things are really neck-and-neck in this edition of the world's poorest attempts in the consumer electronics space, with everything from a brick-colored satellite dish cover (is drunk designing the new drunk dialing?), a ladybug-shaped multicard reader and a carpal tunnel-inducing aircraft mouse. Oh, and lest we forget the "Big Time" watch table and cellphone wristband, both of which are also very worth candidates for this round's most pitiful. Give each a look below, and after you're through chuckling / vomiting, exercise your right to vote on the best (worst?) below.

Read - Brick-colored dish cover
Read - Ladybug multicard reader
Read - USB aircraft mouse
Read - Giant watch table
Read - Gadget wristband

View Poll

Filed under: Misc. Gadgets

Crapgadget: brick satellite covers, ladybug card readers and more laughable abominations originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 20 Jul 2008 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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SATA HDD dock becomes mutant card reader, scares pets

Tim Stevens — Tue, 27 May 2008 12:45:00 EST

We're big fans of SATA HDD docks that let you quickly access whole drives like noisy, overgrown memory sticks. An earlier unit offered just USB connectivity to your Mac or PC, later adding eSATA before rounding out its options with FireWire. Now we have a new model that still accepts bare 2.5- and 3.5-inch disks on top, but ditches the FireWire connectivity on the back in exchange for a card reader and two-port USB hub on the front -- perfect for plugging in storage of the smaller and quieter variety.

Continue reading SATA HDD dock becomes mutant card reader, scares pets

Filed under: Peripherals, Storage

SATA HDD dock becomes mutant card reader, scares pets originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 27 May 2008 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Delkin's ImageRouters daisy chain to read twelve UDMA CF cards at once

Paul Miller — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 15:03:00 EST

Been looking for the perfect card reader to complement that ExpressCard-less MacBook Air of yours? Well here's exactly what you aren't looking for, the ImageRouter from Delkin. This thing is built for professional photographers who need to dump pictures in a hurry, and one of these $149 monstrosities can read up to four CompactFlash cards simultaneously over a USB 2.0 connection. But wait, there's more! You can plug up to three ImageRouters into each other for a total of 12 CompactFlash cards in UDMA transfer mode all at the same time, perfect for all those 25 megapixel shots you've been snapping, or that RAID array you've been meaning to build. Delkin's shipping this thing in March, and it also comes in a $249 version with some bundled BackupandBurn software.

[Via SlashGear]

Filed under: Storage

Delkin's ImageRouters daisy chain to read twelve UDMA CF cards at once originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 31 Jan 2008 15:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Earth Trek's 2-in-1 mult-card reader has a USB twist

Paul Miller — Wed, 26 Dec 2007 12:19:00 EST

We've been bored by the entirely too utilitarian concept of multi-card readers ever since they were hosting our SmartMedia and xD cards, but Earth Trek seems to have revitalized the concept for 2008. The 2-in-1 rotary multi-card reader has a patented swiveling USB 2.0 connector to let you come at it from all angles -- not exactly going to revolutionize your memory card experience, but a nice touch. The reader also includes a plug and adaptors for charging your phone, which seems random but useful. No word on price or availability.

Filed under: Digital Cameras, Storage

Earth Trek's 2-in-1 mult-card reader has a USB twist originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 26 Dec 2007 12:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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