Speaking of gadgets that have been usurped by Apple's do-it-all digital dynamos, the new Amazon Kindle 3 ($140/Wi-Fi $190/3G+Wi-Fi) lowers the price of entry while adding new features and removing others. The cheaper model ditches the free, built-in GSM 3G networking for Wi-Fi — the former's still found in the more expensive model — but features a faster six-inch e-ink display with higher contrast, a new graphite color, a new leather cover with integrated LED light, a new "experimental" WebKit-based browser, and double the storage with half the cachet.
We'll be the first to admit that our Flips haven't been getting much of a workout since our iPhone 4s arrived, but if you're still in the market for a pocket video camera, check out the Samsung HMX-E10 Camera ($200). Available in black or cream, the E10 centers around the 270-degree swiveling lens, which is paired with a 1/3.2-inch CMOS sensor for recording 1080p video in H.264 or capturing eight megapixel stills. HDMI output, a flip-out USB connector, and 2.7-inch touchscreen round out this soon to be antiquated offering.
You might not be able to purchase their animated alcoholic counterparts, but at least you can look like it with The Simpsons Duff Beer & Flaming Moe Energy Drinks ($9). Packed with B vitamins, Taurine, Caffeine, Sugar, and other energy drink standards, the 12 oz. Duff sports an orange flavor and looks like the can from the show, while the Flaming Moe comes in an 8.4 oz. can and sports more of a Red Bull-ish flavor. Homer would approve. [Thanks, David]
Whether you're looking for something a bit more fashionable than a standard multi-tool or simply want to brag about the name, Porsche Design Knives ($210) are a decent option. Built by Wenger, the same chaps who make the Swiss Army Knife, these multi-function tools include nail files, bottle openers, corkscrews, scissors, and, of course, knives, all encased in a curved, organic handle. Should look great with that 911 GT2 RS you've had your eye on.
Sponsored ProductBehold the awesome old school goodness of these vintage-printed, buttery-soft Homage T-Shirts. They turn back the clock with shout outs to eclectic moments and personalities in sports, music, politics and popular culture. From Bruce Lee to Larry Bird, the tees tell stories of triumph, individualism and hustle. Pay Homage.
Hey, you guys! Everyone's favorite teenage treasure hunt is turning 25, and getting a definitive new DVD/Blu-ray release to celebrate. The Goonies 25th Anniversary Collector's Edition ($28) features special packaging, an included board game, original storyboard reproductions, a 1985 souvenir magazine reprint, a reprint of a 2009 Empire magazine article with cast photos and updates, and cast commentary with Richard Donner and all seven principle actors.
These unfortunately-named (and most definitely not Xbox related) sneakers are the latest release in the Keds Century Collection. Inspired by the 1940's-era military, the Keds Call of Duty Sneakers ($55) are limited edition kicks that offer a canvas upper in three terrific colorways, along with leather binding and rawhide laces. If you like the style, but still can't get the idea out of your head that these are anything but mom shoes, just leather-fy your Vans.
Cupcakes are like chick flicks with Reese Witherspoon — nearly every guy likes them but none of us want to admit it. Butch Bakery Cupcakes ($18-$50) are tasty treats you don't have to be ashamed of loving, with camo, wood grain, houndstooth, plaid, checkerboard, or marble chocolate discs on top instead of sissified sprinkles. [Thanks, Anthony]
Whether you're a regular ol' four-eyes or just want a place to store your sunglasses, the Tanner Goods Eyeglass Case ($70) can handle the job. Based off a military issue case from the 1960s, these slim, stylish cases are hand-made in Portland from three-quarter ounce English Bridle leather, and sports a "flap-and-snap" closure, a term which also happens to describe a rather funny photography meme.
Not that the Challenger didn't already sport retro looks, but the Dodge Mopar '10 Challenger ($39,000) takes it to the next level. Powered by a 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 with cold-air intake, the Mopar '10 also features a front strut brace, strut-tower brace, unique engine cover, Katzkin leather seating, Mopar shift handles, and a "Brilliant" Black paint job. Get in line now, because only 500 of these bad boys will be available.
Take a trip back in time with the Bell & Ross Vintage Collection ($TBA). Best known for their incredibly stylish square cased watches, the Vintage Collection harkens back to a golden age of aviation, when autopilot consisted of a stick against the yoke and digital instruments were little more than a pipe dream. Features include round cases, oversized hour indicators, and vintage leather straps that look the part.
Maybe Apple really is becoming the next Sony. The Apple Battery Charger ($30) might be the most random CE product released by Apple this millennia, leveraging the company's super-small iPad/iPod/iPhone wall charger to service six included NiMH batteries, which contain magicalâ„¢ properties that allow them to last for 10 years while retaining a crazy amount of charge. Just don't tell the great Jobso that they also work well for powering those dastardly Wiimotes.
And we thought the Freeboard has a lot of wheels. The Flowboard ($90-$120) is yet another pavement-friendly snowboard/surfing simulating board, featuring a 7-ply Canadian rock maple deck and unique designs. Its Deep Curve System (DCS) is the real star of the show, however, featuring a 14-wheel, arched setup that lets you turn 45-degree angles with smooth edge-to-edge motion, eliminating wheel bite that could send you tumbling like Cintron versus Williams. [via]
Sure, there's a new play calling system that lets you play full games in half the time, but that might not be the most noticeable new feature of Madden NFL 11 ($50-$60). Instead of piling on new, sometimes confusing gameplay features — the aforementioned play calling system and dual stick running back control are pretty much it — EA focused on recreating the in-stadium experience, complete with new commentary, and a more authentic soundtrack including rock classics "Thunderstruck," "Welcome to the Jungle," and "Crazy Train," and team-specific songs like "Fly Eagles Fly," and "Go Packers Go!"
For any of you out there who, like us, have sat down at a desktop Mac after using our MacBooks only to become irritated with the clumsiness of the desktop mouse, Apple has heard your cries. The Apple Magic Trackpad ($70) is a desktop-bound version of the Multi-Touch trackpads found on the company's MacBook Pro, but 80 percent larger, giving you even more room to pinch, rotate, and four-finger scroll your way to computing bliss.
Zesty, bold, and unexpected — and that's just the included fake mustache. Sazon Mas Guapo ($10) is a spice blend that falls somewhere between a dry rub and seasoning salt, and promises to make "any chef seem more handsome," while also making your food "more better."
Worried about thieves raiding your home while you're on vacation, at work, or just passed out in the backyard? Then booby trap your house, Kevin McCallister-style, with the Burglar Blaster ($600). This self-contained unit uses a passive infrared intruder detection system to monitor areas up to 2,000 square feet, and releases an eye-destroying 4 oz. of pepper spray when triggered. It offers an adjustable entry time delay, a cast aluminum/alloy case, can run for years on a single set of C batteries, and will only help reaffirm your crippling paranoia.
Some foods are best prepared smoked, but most of the time smokers aren't the easiest things to move around. Not so with the Bradley Propane Smoker ($100). Powered by propane and four AA batteries, this portable powerhouse burns Bradley Flavor Bisquettes, letting you create tasty smoked treats anywhere you like. The only downside? You'll probably want to stay close by when cooking, lest it be mistaken for a rogue weather station or mobile meth lab. In other words: it's not so pretty.
Just like regular soda, somewhere along the line ketchup — even name brand stuff like Heinz — went from being natural mixes to scary, high fructose corn syrup-filled goo. Sir Kensington's Gourmet Scooping Ketchup ($7) is out to rectify this situation, with two recipes (original and spiced) containing high-quality, all natural ingredients, and with a taste so refined that it demands to be scooped, not poured, squeezed, or shot out of a Super Soaker.
Dress up your office pen cup with a Stainless Steel Sharpie ($8). This fine-tipped permanent marker features a stainless steel barrel with a laser-etched Sharpie logo, a replaceable ink cartridge, and a matching cap. Also great for frat houses, as it lets unassuming revelers know that you're serious about drawing penises on people's faces when they pass out on the couch.
Get a jumpstart on your fall sports training with the Nike Boom App (Free). This snazzy-looking iPod/iPhone app lets you choose your sport, what type of training you want to do, how long you want to do it, and what playlist you want to hear, and go — throughout your workout, you'll hear quick encouraging words from some of the best in the game, pushing you onward. Just don't hook it up to the iHome in your bedroom, unless of course you want Coach K whispering sweet nothings in your ear as you rest.
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