Scosche has confirmed that it has officially cancelled development of its iClops iPad camera accessory, which had previously been tipped for release in March this year. SlashGear reader Afonso had contacted the company regarding the plug-in camera – which promised 2.1-megapixel stills or VGA-quality video on the Apple tablet – and been told that in fact the project had been axed.
Interestingly, Afonso was apparently told by Scosche that the decision was “due to legality issues that we had run in to”; however, Scosche’s PR team tells SlashGear there were no legal issues involved. We’ve waiting on a full official comment from the company, and will update when we get it.
What it’s looking like, however, is that the only way for iPad users to get a still/video camera on their Apple tablet is to wait for the second-gen model, expected to arrive later in 2011 complete with an integrated camera. The iClops was also billed as operating with the iPod touch, adding image and video support to versions of the Apple PMP that lacked camera functionality.
Sony has announced a 5-inch clip-out LCD preview display, the CLM-V55 LCD video monitor, intended to give DSLR videographers a change to see their footage in higher resolution than most camera screens provide. The 800 x 480 panel has a tilt/swivel mount that fits onto an auto-lock accessory shoe or ISO shoe, is powered either by an independent battery or AC adapter, and hooks up to the camera itself via HDMI.
It’s not just a dumb LCD screen, however; there’s a pixel magnification mode which ofers an enlarged view of a selected portion of the Full HD image, together with a colour peaking function that highlights the edges of accurately-focused areas of the video image. Meanwhile there’s adjustable aspect ratio (16:9/4:3), volume, brightness, contrast, colour tone (phase), colour temp and auto dimmer.
A mono speaker – and headphone jack – together with a sun hood round out the main specs. No word on pricing, but the Sony CLM-V55 LCD video monitor will go on sale in March 2011.
Press Release:
Clip-on LCD monitor from Sony for HD video shooting with Interchangeable Lens Digital cameras 13 January 2011
CLM-V55 gives big, high-resolution view of video footage
• Clip-on LCD monitor attaches to DSLR camera
• Large (5″) WVGA panel offers superb high-resolution view while shooting HD video
• Tilt/swivel for comfortable viewing at any angle
• Colour peaking and pixel magnification for precise focus confirmation
A new clip-on LCD monitor from Sony gives DSLR camera owners a bigger, better view of their footage while shooting HD video.
The CLM-V55 is a portable video monitor featuring a high-resolution WVGA (800 x 480) (5”) LCD panel. Attaching easily to most Interchangeable Lens Digital cameras and compatible HD camcorders via the supplied adaptor, it displays video footage during shooting/playback with excellent clarity and a wide viewing angle.
The clip-on screen tilts and swivels to any angle for comfortable framing in any position – even self-shooting when you’re in the picture.
The CLM-V55 is loaded with pro-style features to help photo enthusiasts and videographers shoot high-quality HD video footage with their Interchangeable Lens Digital camera.
Pixel magnification mode assists with accurate focus confirmation, giving an enlarged pixel-perfect view of a selected portion of the Full HD image. It’s complemented by a colour peaking function that highlights the edges of accurately-focused areas of the video image.
An intuitive control wheel allows quick, positive adjustment of a wide range of monitor settings without interrupting shooting. Adjustable parameters include aspect ratio (16:9/4:3), volume, brightness, contrast, colour tone (phase), colour temp and auto dimmer. On-screen markers aid precise framing by giving precise indication of a TV’s 16:9 or 4:3 actual display area. The LCD monitor’s on-board mono speaker is complemented by a headphone jack for accurate audio monitoring during shooting.
The CLM-V55 attaches easily to a wide range of Interchangeable Lens Digital cameras from Sony and other manufacturers that support HD video shooting. The supplied adaptor simplifies mounting on any camera or HD camcorder that features an auto-lock accessory shoe or ISO shoe. Signal connection from camera to monitor is via the supplied HDMI cable, while power can be supplied using a battery pack or AC adaptor (both optional). The CLM-V55 comes with a detachable LCD hood for more comfortable viewing when shooting outdoors in bright sunlight.
The CLM-V55 LCD video monitor by Sony is available from March 2011.
This Louis Vuitton cellphone belt buckle comes to us by way of China and brings together two things that should never be combined: fake designer belts and wireless communication. First off, we’ve all heard the warnings about a cellphone’s proximity to our baby-makers; second, we’re pretty sure that taking your belt off every time you get a call will not only lead to frustration, but some pretty weird looks on the subway; and finally, it’s a fake. Look, it’s not like we’re anti-excess here, but it seems to us like a solid gold cellphone is a far more practical investment. This rather ridiculous contraption apparently comes complete with Bluetooth earpiece and built-in camera, and supports dual card standby and TF card expansion. You know how we feel about it, but if you must, there’s a video after the jump.
Apple has moved the Verizon iPhone 4′s ringer mute switch and volume controls around, and that means new cases, and thanks to XGear we’ve been able to give the first Verizon iPhone 4 case a test run. Lining up perfectly with the shifted controls, the case is so new it doesn’t have a name or a model number yet, but we were still able to slap it on the new CDMA iPhone 4 to see how it fits.
The good news is that it fits perfectly, the buttons now lining up with the tweaked volume controls, and the hole for the ringer mute switch in the correct place. There are the usual cut-outs for the top microphone and the camera and LED flash, too.
Of course, the flip side is that the new XGear case won’t fit the AT&T version of the iPhone 4, but we can’t see manufacturers being too disappointed: after all, they’ll be able to sell a whole new batch of accessories to those who previously thought they could keep their cases while jumping network. We’ll let you know how much the XGear case will be as soon as the company lets us know.
According to Verizon the physical changes between their new CDMA iPhone 4 and the original AT&T iPhone 4 basically amount to the new CDMA radio. However, we’ve spotted another potential headache for those looking to switch between the AT&T handset and the new Verizon version: the ringer mute switch and volume buttons have been moved, meaning AT&T iPhone 4 bumpers won’t fit on the Verizon handset.
The change in layout is to accomodate the new antenna design, which has seen a new notch appear just above the side controls for ringer and volume up/down. Apple’s official Bumper case – which the company gave out free to iPhone 4 users complaining about the so-called antennagate issue – has a hole cut out for the switch, but that doesn’t line up properly with the new Verizon model.
What that means is that, despite the two new phones being almost identical outwardly, users crossing over from AT&T to Verizon will not only have to pick up a new handset but new bumper cases and skins. That’s going to frustrate a lot of people, certainly, and potentially cause an accessory bottleneck in the early days of the Verizon iPhone 4′s availability from February.
Details of the bundled accessories set to come with Nintendo’s 3DS have emerged, with Famitsu scoring graphics of the various bits & bobs that will come with the fast-approaching 3D handheld. The exact contents of the retail box have already been comfirmed, but now we can see the rather comically short USB charging cable Nintendo envisage (and which we’re guessing isn’t entirely indicative of what the final charger will look like).
There are also six “AR” (augmented reality) cards, which according to the (translated) description will be “reflecting the play outside the camera using the compatible software.” The charger stand is a nice touch, though, and something gamers will likely be making plenty of use of given Nintendo’s 3-5hr battery estimates.
Japanese wireless charging company Murata has demonstrated a new contactless-charging system for the iPad, though it uses an external case rather than integrating inside the Apple slate. The unnamed prototype consists of a 2mm thick plastic case, and Murata says it will recharge the iPad just as quickly as the regular mains adapter would.
That’s because the company has managed to increase its power output from a previous prototype, up to 10W like the standard iPad USB charger Apple supply with the iPad. A full re-juice takes 3-4hrs.
The stand itself is an angled platform, and the iPad can be recharged no matter which way it’s stood. Murata won’t be selling a commercial version direct, instead looking to provide the tech to third-parties such as case manufacturers; they expect the wireless charging module to be priced at 1,000 yen ($12) when bought in 100,000 unit quantities.
The Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas isn’t all about the high-end devices that get announced here. Sure, they get all the time and attention, but we can’t forget about the accessories, either. XtremeMac has officially unveiled a series of new USB chargers that may look like any other USB charger out there, but they have a few extra features in store.
The first of the bunch is the universal dual USB charger. It provides 10 watts of power to both USB ports, which means you’ll have space enough to charge two of your devices at once, in one plug. The universal name keeps going, with XtremeMac also unveiling the universal car USB charger. No surprises here, unfortunately.
And finally, there’s the universal USB battery pack and charger. It’s meant to charge batteries while it’s not plugged into the wall, and then provide power to your devices when it’s connected to a wall outlet. Prices start at $14.99 for the dual USB charger, $24.99 for the universal USB car charger, and $59.99 for the battery pack/charger combination.
Press Release
XtremeMac™ Announces New Universal Series of USB Charging Solutions
See the new chargers at Pepcom’s Digital Experience or the Bellagio Grand Ballrooms during CES
Sunrise, FL – January 6, 2011 – XtremeMac, a leading designer and manufacturer of accessories and audio solutions for Apple devices, is pleased to announce its new Universal Series USB charging line during CES. The new wall and car universal chargers are designed to help keep your mobile devices charged while you’re on the go. The chargers are compatible with most USB powered device, including Apple, Blackberry, HTC and Samsung phones, MP3 players, GPS systems, digital cameras and more.
The Universal Dual USB Wall Charger has two USB charging ports allowing users to charge two USB-powered devices simultaneously. The charger delivers 10 watts of power to ensure rapid charging and features a low profile design that leaves access to a second wall outlet.
XtremeMac’s new Universal USB Car Charger is a compact, versatile accessory that quickly and efficiently charges and powers any USB-powered device while on the go. Features include an LED power status indicator and a built-in self- resetting fuse for device protection.
The Universal USB Battery Pack and Wall Charger extends the battery life of any portable USB-powered device while on the go or while at home with its featured rechargeable lithium-polymer battery and dual USB port wall charger. It also includes an integrated viewing stand for mobile devices and five orange LED power indicators to let users know how much juice they have when on the go.
XtremeMac’s Universal USB Car and Wall chargers are available for US$14.99 and US$24.99 (MSRP) respectively, or can be purchased in a combination power pack Dual USB Wall and Car Charger for US$39.99 MSRP. The Universal USB Battery Pack and Wall Charger is available for US$59.99 MSRP. These new chargers are available at XtremeMac.com.
Jabra has unveiled a range of Skype-certified speakerphones, the Jabra EXTREME, Jabra EASYGO, Jabra CHILL and Jabra SPEAK410. The EXTREME is the most flexible, pairing a Bluetooth headset and USB dongle, though the EASYGO still features multipoint connections for remaining paired with both your PC and phone.
The CHILL, meanwhile, is a corded headset, which can be used with both cellphones and VoIP calls; it also has in-line music controls. Finally, the Jabra SPEAK410 is a USB -powered speakerphone, as well as including music playback.
The Jabra EXTREME, Jabra EASYGO and Jabra CHILL are available now, priced at $99.99, $59.99 and $29.99 respectively. The Jabra SPEAK410 will land in Q2 2011, price tba.
Press Release:
JABRA EXPANDS PORTFOLIO OF SKYPE-CERTIFIED OFFERINGS WITH NEW PRODUCTS OPTIMIZED FOR VoIP COMMUNICATION
New Plug-and-Play Devices Offer Great Sound & Noise Cancellation;
Allow for Truly Hands-Free VoIP Communication
With Colleagues, Family and Friends
LAS VEGAS, NV – January 6, 2010 –Jabra, a world leader in developing innovative hands-free solutions, today announced the expansion of its portfolio of Skype-certified products designed to offer a handsfree VoIP solution for all of life’s situations – from the dorm room to the board room. Three new products join the Jabra EXTREME – FOR PC, which launched in October 2010, to offer a complete suite of products that enable multi-tasking through a simple plug & play installation process. The introduction of these new products gives Jabra a wide portfolio of VoIP-specific products on the market, providing consumers with access to a Skype-certified headset or speakerphone for their mobile lifestyle. The new portfolio of products will be shown for the first time at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas this week.
The rapid growth of the VoIP calling industry – Skype, alone, has more than 560 million registered users worldwide – has fueled demand for better headset and speakerphone solutions with top-of-the-line sound quality and features. Jabra is stepping up to the challenge, putting a heavy emphasis on its line of VoIP-optimized products as communication trends indicate that consumers are turning to laptops, mobile devices, tablets and PCs to make more and more of their calls.
The Jabra EXTREME – FOR PC and Jabra EASYGO – FOR PC come with a pre-paired USB adapter that automatically connect to a PC and Skype software for the simplest plug and play experience to date. These multiuse products can take both Internet and mobile phone calls seamlessly and clearly. Two corded offerings, the Jabra CHILL – FOR PC and Jabra SPEAK 410 – FOR PC, ensure that Jabra has a VoIP-solution for everyone. All of Jabra’s Skype-certified products provide crystal-clear sound quality so that even long-distance callers sound as though they’re in the same room.
The new portfolio of products includes:
Jabra EXTREME – FOR PC
• The first product released from this VoIP-optimized suite makes poor quality calls a distant memory and can simultaneously be paired to both your PC and your mobile phone. Designed for the true road-warrior who refuses to sacrifice on sound quality, the headset has been described by a Skype test engineer as “the best sounding/performing Bluetooth headset my team has put through our test laboratories.” (Best Buy, MSRP: $99.99)
Jabra EASYGO – FOR PC
• Offers great value for the money and provides the perfect hands-free solution for a student studying abroad that plans on using Skype to keep in touch with family and friends or a recent grad who is entering the workforce in a new city or country. The EASYGO – FOR PC is a lightweight, stylish headset that can handle all of the needs of an entry-level Bluetooth user. The EASYGO – FOR PC can simultaneously be paired to both your PC and your mobile phone. (MSRP: $59.99)
Jabra CHILL – FOR PC
• This corded option is perfect for those who are not quite ready to go completely wireless. Compatible with both mobile phones and VoIP calls, the CHILL – FOR PC comes equipped with a high-quality microphone and music control function, leaving all other corded headphones in the dust. (MSRP: $29.99)
Jabra SPEAK410 – FOR PC
• This USB-powered speakerphone brings the convenience of instant speakerphone calls anywhere using Skype. The SPEAK410 – FOR PC is a plug & play voice-conferencing solution that requires no additional set-up and comes with a mobile carrying case, allowing users to set up a mobile conference room in a matter of seconds. The product also features music playback capabilities so users can enjoy their favorite tunes while waiting for a VoIP conference call to begin. (Launching in Q2 2011)
For more information on Jabra’s suite of Skype-certified VoIP products visit BuyJabra.com/US, http://shop.skype.com/headsets/ or follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/jabra_us.
Look for the logo, says RIM. Don’t look for the distinctively BlackBerry-shaped case, car mount, screen protector, or holster … look for the logo. Apparently, BlackBerry users have been struggling with picking out accessories for their smartphones, so RIM has decided to roll out a licensing program for specially certified “Built for BlackBerry” peripherals. Case-mate, Incipio, Speck and other manufacturers have already signed up for this authentic accessory program and you’ll see a video loaded with marketing speak after the break explaining the synergistic benefits flowing from this industrial collaboration.
Japanese wireless charging company Murata 
