Category Archives: CES 2014

Kanex Multi-Sync Keyboard



kanexlogo
Todd chats with Tracy from Kanex at CES Digital Experience about their new Multi-Sync Keyboard for Apple devices.

Although touch is great way of interacting with tablets and smartphones, it really doesn’t replace a keyboard when it comes to large amounts of text entry. In response, many manufacturers have come out with add-on keyboards that typically connect to the tablet via Bluetooth. These are generally useful devices but usually it’s one keyboard-one device and often there’s already a keyboard on the desk for the PC, so the desk simply gets more cluttered.

Kanex’s solution the Multi-Sync Keyboard which allows 3 Bluetooth and 1 USB connection to be maintained at any one time – Mac, iPhone and iPad. The user can then switch between connections, entering text into just one device at a time but being able to connect to up to 4 devices. Brilliant! Currently, it’s only available for Apple devices, but future versions should support PCs.

On-sale now for US$69.95 at www.kanexlive.com.

Interview by Todd Cochrane of Geek News Central for the TechPodcast Network.

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Omnimount PJT40 Projector Mount



Omnimount LogoIf you want to hang or support some piece of technology from a wall or ceiling, then Omnimount ought to be on your review list as they have a portfolio of mounts and brackets that will do the job for flat screen TVs, speakers and projectors. Todd and Don chat with Kevin Paulson, who has the latest ceiling mount, the PJT40, for digital projectors. They also discuss the merits of desks that go up and down to facilitate standing at work. Really.

The new PJT40 is a universal projector mount that offers easy one person installation and tool-less microadjustment in the pitch and roll axes, making it simple to get a perfect image in your home cinema. The PJT40 will be on sale in February priced at US$179, which Don thinks is a bargain. Omnimount products are available AV dealers throughout the US and there’s more information at www.omnimount.com.

Interview by Don Baine, the Gadget Professor and Todd Cochrane of Geek News Central for the TechPodcast Network.

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BeeWi Combat Toys



BeeWi LogoTodd and Don have some fun with Tobias Schoeler from French wireless specialists, BeeWi, and on show at CES are Bluetooth battle robots. Controlled from a smartphone app, the robots can fight against themselves or other BeeWi remote controlled toys including helicopters. Very cool and lots of fun.

The robots will be available in the first half of 2014 priced at US$35 and will be supported on Android, iOS and Windows Phone devices. More information and more toys at www.bee-wi.com.

Interview by Don Baine, the Gadget Professor, and Todd Cochrane of Geek News Central for the TechPodcast Network.

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GoProng: Built in Plug to Smartphone Case



Go Prong
Go Prong

Jesse Pliner of GoProng joined the TPN CES Live broadcast. This is a case with a built-in plug that flips up to plug into a standard US outlet.

GoProng is available for iPhone cases, while goprong is working on Android models. Their goal was to not bring a cable with them all the time.

These plug-cases start at $59.95. For more information check out goprong.com

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Interview by Jeffrey Powers of Geekazine and Daniel J. Lewis of The Audacity to Podcast


Goji: More than a Smart Lock – A Smart Access Point with Security Features



Goji Keyless Access
Goji Keyless Access

We were joined by Gabriel Bestard-Ribas of Goji Access to the CES TPN Live broadcast. Goji is making key-less electronic locks with built in camera and other security features. A photo is sent so you can confirm who is at the door. Further, you can send a personalized greeting to whoever is at the door. The smart lock starts taking photos before the person approaches the door.

Goji can do more than just allow someone in. If you have a cleaning person come twice a week, you can control the access schedule. It will also make you aware if its not the regular cleaning person.

The Goji unlocks in three ways – Bluetooth LE, smartphone app and through keyfob. The keyfob can be programmed for multiple doors (front, back door, summer house, etc). The base unit also has an accelerometer so if someone knocks on the door, the system will alert your phone.

As each person access Goji, the information will be available in a spreadsheet you can access from your phone. Complete with access time and photos.

The smart lock runs on 4 double-A batteries and there is no special install or cuts made. You can replace your standard lock with this one. The smart lock is set to withstand 85 to -25 degrees. Best part is if the batteries run out, you can flip the door and use the key access.

The smart lock is not available just yet, but you can sign up for an early bird special over at gojiaccess.com Prices will start at $278 for the basic model. Availability will be in March 2014

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Interview by Jeffrey Powers of Geekazine and Don Baine of The Gadget Professor


Don’t Miss the Action with Geonaute 3D Camera Photos and Video



Geonaute 360 camera
Geonaute 360 camera

Justin Schneller from Geonaute 360 Action camera came onto the TPN CES live broadcast. Geonaute is a sports electronics company that developed a camera which takes a photo or video within the 360 degree range.

The 360 video camera is light enough to fit on a helmet, bike, car, boat or other device. It does not spin – the 8 MP camera lenses capture the whole area for the 360 view. The camera also records in 2K – 25 fps.

You can edit the video in a regular video editor, then encode in MP4, it will then work with the Geonaute software.

The iPad app uses the accellerometer to move the scene with your motions. You can also swipe around the image. Add the Oculus VR glasses and get a virtual look around the video or picture.

The Geonaute 3D camera will retail at $499. You will need to buy SD memory. Free app and software to watch and move around videos.

Find out more at Geonaute.com

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Interview by Jeffrey Powers of Geekazine and Daniel J. Lewis of The Audacity to Podcast


Gazercam Gives Your Camera, Smartphone Stabilization



Gazercam
Gazercam

When Gazercam walked up to the booth, I was instantly mesmerized. Bettina Schnell of Gazercam joined us for the TPN CES Live stream. Gazercam is an electronic stabilizer for your consumer camera or smartphone. Gazercam also can work for GoPro and DSLR cameras.

Once you calibrate, just point and shoot. You can run, jump and more and the video will be as smooth as possible. Gazercam makes multiple gimbles for your camera.

The gimble also has a recharging battery and up/down option so you can keep your hand steady and still keep people in frame.

Find out more at Gazercam.com

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Interview by Jeffrey Powers of Geekazine and Chris Montera of Health Tech Weekly


FLM TV Helping Independent Films Find Audience



FLM TV
FLM TV

Diane Bernard of FLM.tv joined the TPN CES Live Stream coverage. FLM helps independent companies be able to monetize their films. FLM helped out by working with social television so viewers can help with a second screen app.

FLM has full engagement in a view of a film. The party watch allows you to find out what people think. The cast could be sitting in front of web cams answering questions to those watching. With social networking options, you can chat with anyone or just your friends.

Integrating it with the technology allows creators to keep people focused on one area. That way they can get full reaction when people watch the TV show, short, or movie.

Find out more at FLM.TV

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Interview by Jeffrey Powers of Geekazine and Daniel J. Lewis of The Audacity to Podcast


Fleksy Replaces Android Keyboard with Eyes Free Keyboard



Fleksy
Fleksy

Ionnis Verdelis of Fleksy joined Don and I on the TPN CES Livestream action. Fleksy is a software keyboard technology to enable eyes free keyboard for mobile and wearable devices. Fleksy replaces the stock keyboard and although it doesn’t have swipe technology, it does see how you press the screen. Fleksy technology has a predictive correction technology to correct errors.

If you need larger letters, or a specialized keyboard, this will help people with sight issues. The app is available on Android and iOS devices with a 30 day trial ($3.99 after).

To check out Fleksy, goto Fleksy.com

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Interview by Jeffrey Powers of Geekazine and Don Baine of The Gadget Professor


Fitbug Orb, Kik is your Personal Training Coach



Fitbug
Fitbug Orb

Paul Landeau of Fitbug joined Daniel and I on the TPN CES livestream to talk about Orb and Kik. Orb is a wearable technology that you can put on your wrist, clip to your belt or put in your pocket. It tracks your steps, sleep cycle and much more. This year, they are pushing Kik — a digital coach that comes with Fitbug.

They unleased Kikplan at CES. Its about more than that wearable device.

“Most people need a bit of hand-holding, positive reinforcement to achieve what they are looking for” Paul says. “We arranged different programs, like “no more baby bump”, “ready for the big day”, and “manage diabetes”. Here is a plan that supports you.”

With each plan, you will get articles, audio and video encouragement and more to keep you motivated. They are creating the content, or getting video from partners that are experts in their fields.

I showed off my Fitbug numbers, sleep cycles and steps. I showed off my 10,000 step plan in May. You can look back at your activity for the whole year or more if needed. Paul showed off his sleep cycle for CES, which shows he needs a bit more.

For more information, check out Fitbug.com

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Interview by Jeffrey Powers of Geekazine and Daniel J. Lewis of The Audacity to Podcast