iHome iD9 - Review

The 3-pound iHome iD9 Portable Rechargeable Speaker System charges your iPhone, iPod, or iPad while you play music, and runs off batteries when you want to use it where a power outlet is not accessible.

The iHome iD9 Portable Rechargeable Speaker System for iPad/iPhone/iPod is a simple, easy to use speaker system and charging station for your iOS devices. (For the balance of this review, I will refer to the iPad or iOS devices to cover all of them.) It charges your iOS device while you play music, and runs off batteries when you want to use it where a power outlet is not accessible.

The Package

The box contains only three items: The iD9, an A/C adapter, a pair of small rubber bumpers, and a plastic bag with two short manuals � one in French and one in English. iHome warns that the initial charge of the battery can take up to six hours. The unit I received came partially charged, so I finished the initial charging in about 80 minutes.

The power supply for the iD9 is a �wall wart� with a round connector. I would have preferred an USB-based power system, but the power supply is rated at 25W (2.75A at 9V), which is about 10x more power than a single USB port can provide.

Set Up

The iD9 is easy to set up, and measures 12.9 x 2 x 4.06 inches. It doesn't seem that heavy, but it weighs 3 1/4 lbs. I think it is rather large for a portable speaker. On the front are two controls�the switches on the left raise and lower the volume, and the power switch is on the right with the battery charge indicator.

iHome provides a pair of small rubber bumpers, which are about 2" long and 1/8" wide and thick. They are designed to go into a pair of small depressions in the docking area of the iD9 and support your iPad when it is on the dock. If your iPad lives in a case, the case may be thick enough on the bottom so that the bumpers are not necessary.

iHome also sells an optional remote ($20) that allows you to control the operation of the iD9 from a distance. If you choose not to purchase the remote, iHome has put a switch on the back of the unit that lets you conserve power when on battery, by not powering the receiver for the remote. I did not receive the remote for this review.

The iD9 has a rubber base that keeps it from slipping around on smooth surfaces. This is a nice feature, since the last thing you want to happen when dock your iPad is to have the dock slide away from you. However, the instruction booklet that comes with the iD9 suggests that you: �Protect your furniture when placing your unit on a natural wood and lacquered finish. A cloth or other protective material should be placed between it and the furniture.� I tried that, and it defeated the purpose of having the rubber bottom on the unit; when I tried to insert the iPad one-handed, the iD9 slid off my desk.

I was unable to dock an iPad 2 into the iD9. The curved back of the iPad 2 prevents the dock connector from pivoting into the correct orientation. iHome has an adapter that allows you to use the iD9 with the iPad 2, but you have to 1) know that it exists, and 2) go to a particular page on iHome�s site to request the adapter, and 3) wait for them ship you the adapter. The adapter is not mentioned in the documentation or on the iD9 product page. iHome says that the iPad 2 insert will be included in all new production units.

Sound

The sound that the iD9 produces is quite nice; I had no complaints. It reproduced the fine structure of guitar and drum solos. While it didn't "rock the house" on a heavy bass track, it did better than I expected for a set of portable speakers. iHome has incorporated SRS TruBass and Reson8 technologies into the iD9 for improved sound, but says nothing on how the technologies work.

When I played the MacNN audio test MP3 files, I could hear the pure 12K Hz tone, and my daughter could hear the 13K Hz and 14K Hz tones as well. On the bottom end, it played the 20 Hz tone without much distortion.

Battery Power

The internal battery on the iD9 is designed to play your music, not to charge the iPad. I set up a fully charged iPod nano and iD9, and put it on shuffle and repeat, with the volume at about 25%, suitable for a quiet room. The iD9 has four indicator lights on the front to show the level of battery remaining. The first light went out at three hours, the second at about 6 hours 15 minutes, so I'm extrapolating that to estimate that you get between 12 and 13 hours of battery life - longer than your iPad will last.

There is also a line-in jack on the back for playing music from other sources. The manual mentions that you shouldn't plug something into the line-in jack while playing music from a docked iPad, otherwise you could get sound from both sources at the same time.

There is really very little complexity to the iD9. You attach in your iOS device and play - either while plugged into the power supply or on battery. If you have an iPad 2, I would not recommend these speakers, due to the problems with the dock connector. While I like this speaker system, iHome doesn�t make it clear that it isn�t compatible with the iPad2 out of the box and it is over a foot long.

The iD9 has a list price of $99.99 and is available direct from iHome as well as several online retailers. iHome also has two iOS applications that they claim work well in concert with the iD9. I tested the free alarm clock app iHome+Sleep, which worked well, even without the iD9 attached to my iPad. I did not test the iHome+Radio app ($1.99) that lets you listen to Internet radio.

Macnn

Review: iHome iD9

The 3-pound iHome iD9 Portable Rechargeable Speaker System charges your iPhone, iPod, or iPad while you play music, and runs off batteries when you want to use it where a power outlet is not accessible.

The iHome iD9 Portable Rechargeable Speaker System for iPad/iPhone/iPod is a simple, easy to use speaker system and charging station for your iOS devices. (For the balance of this review, I will refer to the iPad or iOS devices to cover all of them.) It charges your iOS device while you play music, and runs off batteries when you want to use it where a power outlet is not accessible.

The Package

The box contains only three items: The iD9, an A/C adapter, a pair of small rubber bumpers, and a plastic bag with two short manuals � one in French and one in English. iHome warns that the initial charge of the battery can take up to six hours. The unit I received came partially charged, so I finished the initial charging in about 80 minutes.

The power supply for the iD9 is a �wall wart� with a round connector. I would have preferred an USB-based power system, but the power supply is rated at 25W (2.75A at 9V), which is about 10x more power than a single USB port can provide.

Set Up

The iD9 is easy to set up, and measures 12.9 x 2 x 4.06 inches. It doesn't seem that heavy, but it weighs 3 1/4 lbs. I think it is rather large for a portable speaker. On the front are two controls�the switches on the left raise and lower the volume, and the power switch is on the right with the battery charge indicator.

iHome provides a pair of small rubber bumpers, which are about 2" long and 1/8" wide and thick. They are designed to go into a pair of small depressions in the docking area of the iD9 and support your iPad when it is on the dock. If your iPad lives in a case, the case may be thick enough on the bottom so that the bumpers are not necessary.

iHome also sells an optional remote ($20) that allows you to control the operation of the iD9 from a distance. If you choose not to purchase the remote, iHome has put a switch on the back of the unit that lets you conserve power when on battery, by not powering the receiver for the remote. I did not receive the remote for this review.

The iD9 has a rubber base that keeps it from slipping around on smooth surfaces. This is a nice feature, since the last thing you want to happen when dock your iPad is to have the dock slide away from you. However, the instruction booklet that comes with the iD9 suggests that you: �Protect your furniture when placing your unit on a natural wood and lacquered finish. A cloth or other protective material should be placed between it and the furniture.� I tried that, and it defeated the purpose of having the rubber bottom on the unit; when I tried to insert the iPad one-handed, the iD9 slid off my desk.

I was unable to dock an iPad 2 into the iD9. The curved back of the iPad 2 prevents the dock connector from pivoting into the correct orientation. iHome has an adapter that allows you to use the iD9 with the iPad 2, but you have to 1) know that it exists, and 2) go to a particular page on iHome�s site to request the adapter, and 3) wait for them ship you the adapter. The adapter is not mentioned in the documentation or on the iD9 product page. iHome says that the iPad 2 insert will be included in all new production units.

Sound

The sound that the iD9 produces is quite nice; I had no complaints. It reproduced the fine structure of guitar and drum solos. While it didn't "rock the house" on a heavy bass track, it did better than I expected for a set of portable speakers. iHome has incorporated SRS TruBass and Reson8 technologies into the iD9 for improved sound, but says nothing on how the technologies work.

When I played the MacNN audio test MP3 files, I could hear the pure 12K Hz tone, and my daughter could hear the 13K Hz and 14K Hz tones as well. On the bottom end, it played the 20 Hz tone without much distortion.

Battery Power

The internal battery on the iD9 is designed to play your music, not to charge the iPad. I set up a fully charged iPod nano and iD9, and put it on shuffle and repeat, with the volume at about 25%, suitable for a quiet room. The iD9 has four indicator lights on the front to show the level of battery remaining. The first light went out at three hours, the second at about 6 hours 15 minutes, so I'm extrapolating that to estimate that you get between 12 and 13 hours of battery life - longer than your iPad will last.

There is also a line-in jack on the back for playing music from other sources. The manual mentions that you shouldn't plug something into the line-in jack while playing music from a docked iPad, otherwise you could get sound from both sources at the same time.

There is really very little complexity to the iD9. You attach in your iOS device and play - either while plugged into the power supply or on battery. If you have an iPad 2, I would not recommend these speakers, due to the problems with the dock connector. While I like this speaker system, iHome doesn�t make it clear that it isn�t compatible with the iPad2 out of the box and it is over a foot long.

The iD9 has a list price of $99.99 and is available direct from iHome as well as several online retailers. iHome also has two iOS applications that they claim work well in concert with the iD9. I tested the free alarm clock app iHome+Sleep, which worked well, even without the iD9 attached to my iPad. I did not test the iHome+Radio app ($1.99) that lets you listen to Internet radio.

Macnn

Review: Sena Keyboard Folio for iPad

The Apple iPad is heavier than it first appears. It can easily slip through your hands with its streamlined design. I wanted a case that would add a touch of class as well as functionality to the tablet itself; but prevent a disaster when I inevitably dropped my iPad. I found it in the Sena Keyboard Folio.

While the Apple iPad doesn�t replace my laptop computer for heavy-duty business work, it makes meetings and short computing sessions a breeze. What was missing was the ability to use email and take notes with the same precision of a laptop. The Sena Keyboard Folio helps the Apple iPad bridge the gap. It lets me take notes and do email with an ergonomic keyboard and sturdy case that acts as a stand for the Apple iPad itself.

The Keyboard Folio ships in a black gift box, encased in a soft drawstring bag. It comes with a simple instruction card, and a mini USB to Standard Type A USB plug. I followed the simple directions to connect the Bluetooth keyboard to the Apple iPad, and was up and running quickly. The process is similar to my Bluetooth phone headset installation. You do need to charge the keyboard prior to the pairing, but the battery lasts about 3 days on average before it needs a three-hour charge. You can charge it via an outlet or from a computer with the USB 2.0 plug adapter. There is a 3-year lithium battery powering the keyboard. Other than the small power cable there are no loose pieces or parts.

The Case

The Keyboard Folio is made from rich high quality smooth-finish leather. I worked with the black and the red case, but it also comes in brown, and tan. Based on the fire engine red of the red case, I imagine that the other colors are true to their description and graphics online. One word of caution though, if you view or work with photographs on your iPad, I recommend you buy the black case, because the colors surrounding the screen affect how the color in your photos appear.

The cases are wonderfully finished with even stitching and an attention to detail and durability. The treated leather stays remarkably free of scratches and marring from pens, liquids, or dirty fingers. The inside of the case is a soft protective layer not unlike a suede cloth to protect the finish of the Apple iPad. The cutouts for the ports and switches are positioned well.

The case is a perfect fit, although the iPad has a tendency to shift a fraction of an inch, so I found myself adjusting it frequently. The Folio has a sturdy snap closure, not a magnet � which is a good thing, since the latter plays havoc with magnetic strips on credit and keycards. When closed, it looks like a simple leather portfolio. The single length built in stand is tethered to the top of the case.

The angle is fine for me, but I prefer a multi-stage angle to accommodate my frequent airplane trips and close quarters. The snap closure tab is a bit of a nuisance as there is no formal way to keep it from falling into the view of the screen. It can be tucked back, but the sturdy leather has a penchant to fall out of its tucked position and flip back over the top of the screen.

The Keyboard

Of course, the real reason to have this particular case is the keyboard. Sena�s done a great job in providing a noiseless, silicon covered sensitive keyboard with a low profile. It�s a good keyboard to use in a meeting, because it makes no noise. It feels great and is a quality addition to the Apple iPad. You can remove it from its envelope-style portion of the case and pair it with Bluetooth enabled smart phones too. It works just fine with the iPhone and an Android device. Some men have complained the keyboard is too small for their big hands, but it fit my hands perfectly. To preserve its estimated 40 plus hours of working time, you should shut it off when not in use.

Some may find a short period of adjustment to using the keyboard, because it does not have an Option or Command key on the right side of the space bar. Other keys are moved to that right side space, including the forward slash, quote and plus keys.

Sena also includes a recessed area with three slit storage slots for business or credit cards along the top of the keyboard portion.

Conclusion

The Sena Keyboard Folio is great addition to the Apple iPad case line-up, even though it adds about a pound to the already weighty device. It meets the needs of a casual user and those that have an image to protect. The quality and manufacturing justify the price and I suspect the case may outlast your iPad. I plan to get the iPad 2 Folio case to give to a lucky recent law-school graduate.

Macnn

Apple: Galaxy S II, new Galaxy Tabs copy iPhone, iPad too

Apple in a filing late last week (below) is now known to have brought Samsung's latest devices into its lawsuit against design copying. An expedited but limited discovery order will let its attorneys look at all of the devices that Samsung is just now putting into the market, including the Galaxy S II, Galaxy Tab 8.9 and 10.1, the Infuse 4G, and the Droid Charge. Lawyers wanted to gauge whether or not these too infringed on Apple's patent or trade dress claims and argued that comparisons were already being made between the S II and the iPhone 4 as well as the Galaxy Tab 10.1 and the iPad 2.

Judge Lucy Koh was inclined to side with Apple that there was a "reasonable basis" to inquire whether Samsung was designing hardware to look like the iOS devices. Apple gave a particularly condemning example when Samsung mobile VP Lee Don-Joo signaled that Samsung would change the Tab 10.1 design to beat Apple on thinness and, just three weeks after the iPad 2 was unveiled, had a tablet design just slightly thinner where its original model, shown just over two weeks before the iPad 2, was thicker.

Samsung had tried to object on the grounds that some of its products hadn't been released at the time of the original notice of an intent for the order, on April 20. Judge Koh dismissed this as all of the products had already been given official public appearances, including in person. She added that Samsung had even given out 5,000 Galaxy Tab 10.1 Limited Edition models at Google I/O on May 10, leaving members of the regular public with the final design in their hands.

The ruling gave Samsung a minor concession in saving Samsung executives from having to provide depositions on the devices, saying it would be "unduly burdensome" to have them cover so many topics with relatively little warning.

Apple's win may compound Samsung's troubles in the case. Although there are conspicuous differences, Samsung's device lineup has had design traits not seen on other Android phones that are conspicuously like that of the iPhone, including a large central home button and icons on the Samsung-specific TouchWiz interface that are only slightly different than their Apple equivalents.

Electronista

ASUS confirms Eee Pad Transformer shortage, cites demand

ASUS partly confirmed rumors of Eee Pad Transformer shortages on Friday through a statement from spokesman David Chang. He didn't acknowledge talk of just 10,000 of the Android 3.0 tablets shipping in April but anticipated that it would take at least a month to get back on track, with 100,000 in May and 200,000 in June. There would be a "significant alleviation" of shortages by June, Chang told NetbookNews, two months after it went on sale.

The representative wouldn't touch on beliefs that the shortage had been caused by Apple's supply demands for the iPad 2 cutting into ASUS' supply. He instead argued that demand for the Transformer was exceeding predictions "by far." While the tablet is available worldwide, US distributors have cast doubt on claims of sheer interest since retailers didn't receive promised stock to gauge supply.

The 300,000-plus sales would still give ASUS a rare win in the mobile space over some of its competitors. While still just a small fraction of what Apple sells, the number would eclipse the 250,000 Xooms Motorola shipped in the winter. Depending on Motorola's performance in the spring, the Eee Pad Transformer could be the most popular Android 3.0 tablet. Samsung's Galaxy Tab 8.9 and 10.1 may be popular but aren't shipping until early June.

The Transformer has earned much of its reputation through offering relatively high quality but for just $400 in a 16GB edition, $200 less than the 32GB-only Xoom and $100 less than a 16GB iPad 2. Its signature trick is an optional keyboard dock that also supplies a trackpad and a second battery that boosts it to 16 hours of use.

Electronista

LG Display blamed for iPad 2 shortage, Chimei due in May

A large part of the iPad 2's shortage issues were put at LG Display's feet on Thursday night through claims from supply sources. LG Display reportedly had light leakage problems for screens made at its sixth-generation LCD plant and could only ship 3.2 million iPad LCDs between January and March. Samsung, already helping out, ended up producing more at seven million, Digitimes understood.

While the 9.2 million total was well in excess of the 4.69 million Apple sold, much of that production would have been intended for the spring. Apple is known to have stopped original iPad production near the very start of the year and to have shifted over to production around February. Shipments would have started out in low numbers both due to the LG Display issue and the usual time needed to ramp up production at a contractor like Foxconn.

LG Display was said to have already fixed the problem and should be producing many more in spring. Plans for Chimei Innolux to pitch in were reportedly still on track and would have it shipping the 9.7-inch, IPS-based touchscreens this month.

While unconfirmed, the LG issues would support complaints from some iPad 2 buyers who've noticed light leakage on some of the earliest production runs. Apple has readily acknowledged that it was limited only by supply in the first quarter of the year and hinted at LG's resolution with confidence production would get back on track quickly.

Electronista

Dodgy rumor claims iPad 3 is a 'dead cert' for 3D video

An unconventional rumor claimed that Apple was focusing the third-generation iPad on 3D. A woman billed as a movie industry insider claimed to RCR that it was a "dead cert" and that studios were supposedly preparing 3D movies and other content for iTunes. Multiple sources from Foxconn were supposedly corroborating leaks of early production plans.

The details of how it would work weren't given. Recording 3D is relatively straightforward as it requires two cameras to produce the stereoscopic effect. Tablets like the LG Optimus Pad can already produce it. Displaying 3D is much more difficult, however, and tablets like the Optimus Pad have to include glasses because of the costs and performance needed for larger glasses-free screens. Phones like the HTC Evo 3D and LG Optimus 3D can show glasses-free 3D only because of their size.

The rumor is uncorroborated by other sources and would fly against Apple's own typical conservatism relating to video. It remains one of the few computer builders to pass on Blu-ray, owing to the complication of getting it implemented, and so far hasn't included 3D video either in its devices or in its pro video creation tools. Apple usually only adopts technology if it believes the technology can be kept simple and would very likely reject any plan requiring glasses, just as it rejected the need for pen input on the iPhone.

Customer acceptance may also be a major problem. Nielsen in a study late last year showed 59 percent of Americans actively avoiding 3D, not just skipping past it. Modern 3D, even with glasses-free 3D like the Nintendo 3DS, both carries a noticeable price premium and often induces eyestrain. Some can't see the effect at all.

Electronista

Does Intel Really Want to be Apple's Foundry?

Intel is rumored to be looking for a new business opportunity that seems positively counter-intuitive�providing Apple with foundry services for the ARM-based chips that go into iPhones, iPads and iPods.

That's what Piper Jaffray analyst Gus Richard thinks, at least.

''Based on a number of inputs, we believe Intel is also vying for Apple's foundry business," Richard said, according to an EE Times report published this week.

''It makes strategic sense for both companies. The combination of Apple's growing demand and market share in smart phones and tablets gives Intel a position in these markets and drives the logic volume Intel needs to stay ahead in manufacturing," the Piper Jaffray analyst said.

But aside from turning some excess manufacturing capacity into extra revenue, such a move by Intel would seem to work against the chip maker's long-term strategy of getting its x86-based processors and chipsets into the small mobile devices currently dominated by makers of ARM chips.

Perhaps, but Intel may be motivated to partner with Apple to counter an even greater mutual threat, according to the analyst. Samsung, under contract to make Apple's current-generation A5 chips for its iOS devices, is "a significant competitive threat to both companies," Richard said.

The analyst also points out that there is not a lot of love lost between Apple and Samsung these days. The two companies have been trading lawsuits for several months over wireless networking patents and mobile device designs.

Richard said Apple was likely to first turn to the Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) for its foundry needs should it break ties with Samsung down the road, but that Intel might be waiting in the wings.

Intel already supplies Apple with x86 chips for desktops and notebooks. The company sees itself as the steward of the x86 architecture it originated, though it has proven willing to design and manufacture non-x86 chips like its Itanium processors for high-end servers and HPC systems.

PCmag

Eee Pad Transformer limited to 10,000 a month, iPad a factor

ASUS' Eee Pad Transformer shortage might be even more severe than thought, sources maintained Monday. ASUS had planned to ship 300,000 units a month but was facing a component shortage that capped it at just 10,000 units, NetbookNews' German wing was told. Production wouldn't get to intended levels until at least mid-June.

The shortage wasn't due to pricing. Parts weren't available at any price, one contact said.

If accurate, the shortage would be even worse than thought. Initial talk had it limited to 100,000 units a month and recovering in May. ASUS' tablet was seen as possibly the most effective Android 3.0 tablet at $400 and strong reviews but has been virtually unavailable following a near immediate sellout owed to how few were in stores. Best Buy and other chains weren't promising any supply until May.

Suppliers have increasingly given indication that Apple's iPad 2 may be consuming much of the supply and could be responsible for ASUS' problems. Although the Taiwan firm's buying plans aren't known, Apple is much more aggressive than most in negotiating long-term buying deals where many others are more likely to buy on-the-spot and are vulnerable to shortages.

ASUS isn't known to have commented on any of the shortage rumors.

Electronista

Tapose hopes to bring MS Courier two-pane style to iPad

Tapose (Tap-o-SAY) is a project to bring the best ideas of Microsoft's defunct but intriguing dual-screen Courier project and incorporate them into an app for the iPad (and perhaps later for Android tablets) that mimics both the Courier's free-form writing support as well as its two-pane interface. Using the iPad in landscape mode, the proposed app would split the screen, allowing users to run two apps side-by-side: for example, the Camera Roll on one side and Mail on the other, making it easy to drag-and-drop photos as attachments.

An adjustable separator bar would allow users to easily control what app had what portion of the screen, and the bar itself could act as a temporary placeholder for things like images or sticky notes. With stylus and writing support, the two-pane view could also be ideal for studying, making notes or sketching from photos.

The two developers, who go simply by their first names of Ben and Rick, began soliciting for investors just over a month ago and have already exceeded their initial Kickstarter project goal of $10,000 but are still seeking backers to help ensure the project's success. Every pledge of $10 or more earns the investor a free copy of the app when it is eventually released. At press time the project had a total of 419 backers and had raised nearly $12,000.

The original Courier was a Microsoft concept product that was much publicized but ultimately cancelled before it ever made it into production. It was to have been a book-style dual-screen tablet with stylus that allowed for split-screen or dual-screen use, featuring handwriting recognition and e-reading as its main attractions.

Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer cancelled the project for unspecified reasons, but factors influencing his decision were thought to have included price pressure from Apple's then-just-announced iPad and competing projects from partner companies, such as HP's "Slate" tablet. Two senior Microsoft executives heavily involved in the Courier project eventually left the company in the aftermath of its cancellation, though both denied it was the reason behind their departures.

Work on the Tapose app is currently at the alpha stage and the developers hope to have the initial release of the app ready by late summer.

Electronista

Xoom update due April 28 with Widevine DRM, camera transfers

Verizon on Wednesday revealed plans for the second update to the Motorola Xoom in as many months. The 28MB update adds support for both HDCP video output and the video copy protection scheme Google bought when it acquired Widevine late last year to help its plans for a mainstream YouTube movie service. Although not explicitly mentioned, it came just as Google was rumored to be launching the service as soon as this week.

Most expect the service to work as it does for the currently independent-only version, where viewers can rent by the title and stream as they would any other YouTube video. Android 3.0 currently doesn't have a major, consistently available movie service but could get one if Google completes a deal.

The patch further brings hooks for Picture Transfer Protocol (PTP) uploading and will let owners finally see and upload pictures directly from a camera attached through USB. It reflects what iPad owners have had for over a year but won't need an extra adapter beyond the right USB cable.

Bluetooth is now more useful and can be used both for a wireless mouse as well as for headsets and other peripherals in Google Talk. A shortcut now exists to bring up the Bluetooth keyboard.

Other additions are mostly fixes but still important, including the ability to finally see complete HTML messages from a POP3 server, transfer data over SSL from a website, and use encrypted passwords during boot. Motorola's upgrade should also allow docking the Xoom without interruption, improve proxy support for connecting through Wi-Fi, and allow for using pre-shared keys when creating a 3G hotspot.

The update is due to go live on Thursday and will be available immediately with a manual check and pushed out over the air over time.

by Aceshowbiz

SpiderPodium Tablet for iPad 2 and iPad 1 - Review

The SpiderPodium Tablet is probably one of the most unique portable iPad/tablet stand you�ll find. It�s light and flexible, yet study enough to put your beloved device on it. It works with the new iPad 2, the original iPad 1, and other tablet devices.

When you first take out the SpiderPodium Tablet, it may look strange because it resembles a giant spider. There are eight legs that are all flexible. Each leg has three joints that can be bent in any way you need it. The exterior is made of a soft rubber, preventing any scratches on your tablet.

The product�s box will have two photos on it displaying the two main positions the stand can be in. Follow the photos on the box to setup the SpiderPodium stand in either portrait or landscape mode. Once you get it in place, carefully place your iPad/tablet in and bend the end joints to hold it in place. When it�s sturdy, bend and move the legs to the angle you desire.

What�s wonderful about the extra legs on this stand is that it could be wrapped anywhere. Wrap the stand around a car seat or a dashboard. Or even around a pole or stand so you can read your music sheets. There�s many multiple uses for it.

Overall, the SpiderPodium Tablet is a flexible tablet stand that you can set in any angle, any position, and light and portable enough to take anywhere. Just collapse all the legs to put in your bag, and you�re ready to go.

SpiderPodium Tablet is made by Breffo and is available in two colors � graphite and black. It fits most tablets on the market. And is not recommended for children under the age of 3.

Beatweek

SuperTooth Disco bluetooth wireless stereo

It�s the bluetooth soundbar on steroids. Throw out the idea of being pocket sized and instead envision a bluetooth wireless stereo as being a foot long and a few inches tall, and you�ve got the SuperTooth Disco. The idea of being this large is that it can crank out some powerful audio, or twenty-eight watts, as the company likes to point out. The Disco is still portable in terms of running on a built in battery and being able to be picked up and carried around, and while I�m not sure I�d travel with something this large, it�s a fun product for around the house or toting to a party.

The idea behind the bluetooth for a product like this is that you don�t need a cable to pair it up with your computer, phone, or tablet. It can serve as a replacement for your computer speakers, or if you really want to take advantage of its wireless functionality, imagine lying in bed using your iPad for reading or gaming while your iPad�s music is playing wirelessly out of the Disco on your nightstand.

The catch with this product is that because it�s as big as it is, it doesn�t have that same uniquely valuable travel aspect as some of its smaller bluetooth counterparts. Instead, the Disco must be compared to wired products of its own size, and that�s where it starts to feel expensive. iPhone users can find dockable stereos at this size and price range which sound better, so you really have to take advantage of the wireless functionality in order to get your money�s worth. Ultimately, the audio quality here scores very high on the �powerful� side but only adequately on the �pristine� scale.

On the plus side, the on-board controls are a nice touch, including previous, next, an play-pause buttons which save you from having to reach for your device, which may well be in your pocket considering the wireless connection. And the tactile volume knob is a fun retro touch as well.

Beatweek

Logitech Keyboard Case for iPad 2 (ZAGGmate 2) � Review

The original ZAGGmate with Keyboard, released for the iPad 1.0 last year, tested out well enough that it was Beatweek�s portable iPad keyboard of the year winner. Suffice it to say, then, that expectations were high for the product we thought would be called the ZAGGmate 2. Instead, still made by ZAGG, the iPad 2 version of the product is officially known as the Logitech Keyboard Case by ZAGG. Having tested out this new iteration, I can tell you that not much has changed beyond the fact that there�s now a Logitech logo above the volume keys � and from where we�re sitting, that�s a good thing.

But lest we get ahead of ourselves, here�s what you need to know about the product now known as the Logitech Keyboard Case: it�s a metal shell which snaps onto the front of the iPad 2 and, when removed, reveals a low-profile physical keyboard inside. An adjustable slide out leg allows you to stand the iPad 2 up in portrait or landscape mode. The iPad 2 and the keyboard talk to each other not through a cable, but instead through a wireless bluetooth connection. The included micro-USB cable allows you to recharge the keyboard�s battery. The only reason the original ZAGGmate had to go by the wayside was that the svelter dimensions of the iPad 2, regretfully, kept the product from snapping on securely. But the new svelter version of the product works great with the iPad 2, and we can recommend it just as strongly as its predecessor.

So what�s still not to like? As a case, the product doesn�t do anything to protect the iPad 2�s rear surface; ZAGG is likely hoping you�ll use its Invisible Shield product for that purpose. And we still prefer the feel of Apple�s own physical iPad keyboard, which is almost exactly like typing on a Mac computer � except that it�s not portable. When it comes to portable iPad 2 keyboards, the Logitech Keyboard Case wins hands down. Of course we expect more such keyboards to come to market, and we�ll keep you posted as they do.

BeatWeek

Motorola Atrix review

Motorola's Atrix is a top Google Android phone that could threaten many people's need to buy a separate laptop

When T3 magazine announced its �Hot 100 Gadgets� of 2011, the Motorola Atrix was No 1, ahead of Apple�s iPad, a host of Google tablets and a range of products, from laptops to sound systems and games consoles.

Thanks to a dual-core processor, rather surprisingly advertised on the start-up screen, the Atrix runs extremely quickly and is able to do a number of things at once in a way that would have been unthinkable even 18 months ago. Watching a movie while also flicking to a web browser, say.

The Atrix challenges the distinction between mobile and computer. For most consumers, the basic functions of a laptop � text editing and web browsing � can now be done online. People are buying laptops, not for their power, but for the keyboard and larger screen.

An Atrix, however, can plug into the Lapdock accessory, which boasts the sort of super-thin, ultra-light design that would once fetch a much higher price than �299.

Of course, the dock is not a fully-fledged laptop, but for many purposes it�s as much as you�ll need. Factor in the other docks that can use the phone to play movies via your TV or music via your hi-fi and the Atrix is as irresistible

as a Google Android handset gets. If there�s a fault, it�s that it�s still easy to get to the limits of its capabilities. That�s testament, though, to how far technology has come so fast. In future, a single device is likely to connect wirelessly to screens of various sizes in various settings. Atrix is a first glimpse of that new, always connected world.

The Motorola Atrix is available on Orange for free on a �35 per month, two year contract.

The Telegraph

iPad headrest mount from TouCoul - review

Have you ever come across a time when you wished you had a way to mount your iPad in the car for full accessibility for your passengers (especially kids)? Well then the CoulVue from TouCoul may be what you�re looking for.

The CoulVue is a headrest mount that easily installs onto the headrests in your car. The instructions are pretty easy to follow and the end result is a very sturdy mount. It can also be uninstalled quickly when you�re done with it.

The arm of the CoulVue can extend out for easy access to the iPad when playing a game, surfing the web, or email. It can be retracted for the times when you want to watch a movie or listen to some tunes. The arm is flexible and can be bent for your needs or the passengers.

A Share mode is also available for the arm so that it can be extended towards the middle of two seats for use by multiple passengers. A great use for this is to keep the kids busy with their favorite movie.

The CoulVue mount can be twisted and tilted a full 360 degrees. This means that the iPad can be viewed in portrait or landscape mode, and can be adjusted for the perfect viewing or typing angle. It�s easy to adjust, but still very sturdy, which is great.

Now, what about stuff on the road like pesky potholes and bumps? The CoulVue is very sturdy thanks to the reinforced locking system that it has. You can be guaranteed that your iPad won�t be flying out or around the inside of your car.

The CoulVue is perfect for those that have been looking for a way to mount the iPad in the car to keep passengers entertained. Unfortunately, this model is only compatible with the first gen iPad, and only when it is not protected by a case or shell. This is because they designed it for a perfect fit with the iPad, to ensure that it will be locked in the mount. However, a CoulVue for the iPad 2 is in the works.

If you�re still using an original iPad, then this is still a great buy if you�ve been needing it.

It is available for $80 from TouCoul.

Beatweek

Logitech Squeezebox Controller app hits iPad, iPhone

Logitech has followed up last month's release of its Squeezebox Controller app for Android devices with one for Apple's iOS devices. The app (free, App Store) will work on the iPod touch, iPhone, and iPad. The features are nearly identical to the Android version, with users getting full-fledged control over their Wi-Fi connected Squeezebox devices.

Owners can see metadata and album art as well as control specialized services like Pandora, Last.fm, Facebook and Flickr. Squeezebox players need to be on the same Wi-Fi network. The extra screen real estate of the iPad allows a dual display with simultaneous control and display compared to the one-pane view on the iPhone and iPod touch screens.

Electronista

iSuppli: iPad 2 shortages sparked by multiple tech issues

Apple's tightly constrained iPad 2 production mentioned in its results call was the virtue of several technical problems compounding each other, IHS iSuppli believed in an updated estimate. The company had "quality concerns" with the slightly updated LCD as well as touchscreen panel lamination problems, shortages of speakers, and overall initial trouble getting completed iPads. Apple has already tackled may of the issues, but it will reportedly be falling "substantially" short of its April goal.

Analysts at the firm matched the reduced supply by lowering their forecast by four million units to hit 39.7 million. The growth would still be a 163.3 percent surge over the 14.8 million iPads Apple shipped in 2010.

Apple for its part had already said it was shipping "every iPad 2 [it] can make." The IHS iSuppli look also acknowledged the minimal impact from Japan and explained that Apple had put executives in Japan "days" after the Tohoku area earthquake, lining up changes to guarantee supply for the months ahead. The deals may have ended up hurting competitors that didn't have as much clout.

Researchers were still confident that the iPad would keep its dominance. Android was gaining speed, but lackluster reviews for early models like the Motorola Xoom, early high prices, and a lack of apps gave Apple some security. Apple was even achieving an early ubiquity to where companies were promoting apps for iPads by name, not just tablets as a group. The majority position would last until late 2012 or early 2013 in a long-term forecast, although Apple would still be the largest individual tablet maker.

Much of the impact might not necessarily come from heavyweights, like Motorola or Samsung, but instead from the sheer number of companies willing to use cheap TN panels for their LCDs instead of iPad-grade IPS panels. Southeast Asian companies could use the lower quality screens to get the price advantage and claim an edge in China.

iPad shipments should still grow substantially for at least the next year. IHS iSuppli predicted Apple would be more aggressive about its shipments next year and move one million more tablets at 62.6 million.

Electronista

Cablevision rolls Optimum for iPad app with 300 TV channels

Cablevision lived up to its promises of a near-term launch of live iPad TV streaming by launching Optimum for iPad (free, App Store). Its approach is much more aggressive than Time Warner Cable's and gives access to as many as 300 live stations depending on the owner's cable package. Viewers also have access to 2,000 free and subscription on-demand videos.

The app can similarly handle DVR scheduling and has its own searchable program guide with filters, such as limiting results to HD-only content. Parental controls are also on tap.


Its much wider content comes from the cable service's infrastructure, according to Cablevision: since it uses a switched digital cable system that can tie directly into the local network, the broadcasting rights are the same as for the regular TV service. Viewers don't even need a working Internet connection, it said. Time Warner Cable's solution still needs users to be on one of its cable modem connections over Wi-Fi to work, but its requirement that users stream online has led to selective channel rights and pushback from companies who insist the didn't give permission for online streaming.

Other tablets and "display devices" should get Optimum in the future, though Cablevision didn't say which platforms or when. iPad owners have a more definite plan as they will get direct remote control functions sometime in the summer.

by Electronista

Hands on: Samsung's Galaxy Tab 10.1

Samsung's Mobile World Congress event primarily focused on the new Galaxy S II smartphone, but the company pulled the curtains back open to spend a few minutes talking about its second-generation tablet. Electronista took advantage of an opportunity to try out the new gadget, which is among the first to be based on Google's tablet-optimized Android 3.0 OS.

The Tab 10.1 is built around a larger screen than its predecessor, stretching from a seven-inch panel to a 10.1-inch spread that inspires the name. The shift essentially brings the device into direct competition with the iPad; the first-generation Tab arguably fell into a separate category for mid-size devices. Our experience with the original Tab felt closer to a smartphone than a tablet, but the larger model overcomes those objections.

Our first impression with the first Galaxy Tab was partially influenced by the OS; Samsung jumped into the Android tablet market before the OS was truly optimized for the larger screen. Android 3.0 Honeycomb solidifies the tablet experience on the Tab 10.1, however, helping to eliminate issues that emerged when using a scaled-up smartphone OS. We also agreed with Samsung's choice to leave the stock OS alone. UI tweaks helped overall usability with Froyo on a seven-inch layout, but it does not seem to be necessary with Honeycomb.

From the front and sides, the Tab 10.1 and iPad both share a similar appearance with black bezels held by an aluminum frame. Samsung takes from the Galaxy S design for the back panel, which is textured and slightly contoured for hand grip. The tablet felt solid in our hands, while the weight seemed lighter than the iPad.

Under the hood, the Tab 10.1 packs the same dual-core Tegra processor as Motorola's Android 3.0-based Xoom tablet. The OS and apps seemed to be snappy and responsive while we flicked through the UI and tried out a few apps.

We liked the Tab 10.1, but the device did not have any spectacular features to set it apart from the rest of the crowd. Users can generally expect quite a few tablets to arrive this year with the same OS and similar screen sizes, screen resolutions and camera configurations. A few of the current unknowns -- price, battery life and launch timing -- may be the factors that make or break the Tab 10.1.

by electronista.com