geeksugar -- Geek is chic.

Kodak Zi6 Pocket Camera to Challenge My Trusty Flip?

geeksugar — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 02:03:07 -0700

I'm obviously a big fan of the Flip Video camera because of its portability and simple video uploading functions. My YouTube page has never been easier to populate! And of course, since the Flip was first on the scene, there are bound to be challengers pop up with improved capabilities. Enter the Kodak Zi6 Pocket Video Camera.

Coming just in time for the holiday season on Oct. 1, the Zi6 boasts some pretty impressive specs: HD recording at 16:9 aspect ratio, flip-out USB connector, 2.4-inch screen, on board slow motion playback, tripod mountable body, and an expandable SD/SDHC card slot that can hold up to 32 GB, which equals hours of video fun. The Zi6 is priced at an affordable $180 in your choice of black or pink, and will come stocked with video editing software to let you personalize your flicks with text, music, and still-photo extraction for sharing. It's the newest evolution in on-the-go video cameras! I'm definitely adding this bad boy to my Christmas list this year!

Eco Geek Tip: Use a Powerstrip With a Breaker

geeksugar — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 14:45:45 -0700

I know it seems like common sense, but if you are looking to save energy and money, plug your gadgets into a power strip with a circuit breaker so you have the ability to flip the switch off instead of draining energy. I suggest hooking up devices like your TV and DVR or TiVo to one strip (so they can stay on and record all your favorite shows), but keep everything else on strips that can be turned off whenever you leave the house for an extended period of time.

There's a neat site called MyGreenElectronics that offers a simple energy calculator so you can guesstimate what your electronic use means for your wallet by the minute, day, month, and year.

10 Useless (But Totally Essential) Geek Accessories

geeksugar — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 04:00:34 -0700

Geeks are a different breed altogether: We know that there are some things in life that aren't really essential, but are a must-have — whether it be for street cred, bragging rights, or we were just wooed by the fantastic out of sheer boredom. You know what I mean. So I've rounded up my favorite pointless and useless geek accessories that have graced the pages of geeksugar that you just can't resist. Cause you know, why would you?

Vintage Camera Phone Puts FOTC Phone Into Perspective

geeksugar — Sat, 26 Jul 2008 10:05:57 -0700

I have been semi-obsessed with oversized, clunky and illogical camera phones ever since I saw the "Mugged" episode of Flight of the Conchords where Jemaine's handmade camera phone (it's literally a camera and phone taped together) gets taken by a street thug. This Canon camera phone is even more fantastic because it combines a spectacular camera with a rotary phone base. Cause everyone needs a rotary phone that can capture images within cord distance, right?
Photo courtesy of HBO and Source

Geek Out With Me: What Gadget Do You Never Use?

geeksugar — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 11:00:06 -0700

While I find myself comparison shopping more often and only splurging on the really good stuff (you know, like the 3G iPhone!) I am certainly not immune to the many temptations out there in the gadget world. When Polaroid announced it is discontinuing its cameras and film, I scoured the web and stocked up. Do I really need 25 packs of Polaroid film? I guess only time will tell.

I want you to share that device you thought you needed but never use by bookmarking it on TeamSugar. If you tag your finds as "gadget I never use," I'll do a recap next week of your picks.

If you need help check out my explanation of how to bookmark items on TeamSugar. Still don't know where to start? To see some of my fave online stores,

Vintage Geek: Flash For Diana+

geeksugar — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 05:00:23 -0700

I'm always skeptical about the quality of novelty gadget accessories, but I can't argue the aesthetic appeal of the Flash For Diana+, $60.

The flash was inspired by the original '60s design of the all plastic and vintagey Diana Dreamer and Diana F+ cameras, which are famous for bright and lo-fi images. Of course, this modern flash comes with an adapter for any standard hotshoe camera.

The "Diana Plug" attaches directly to the camera and fully syncs the flash. An integrated color flash feature allows you to splash a burst of colored light at your subject and the flash ships with a set of plastic color gels.

Pottery Barn's Smart Tech Goes on Sale

geeksugar — Sun, 01 Jun 2008 09:04:29 -0700

I've had my eyes on Pottery Barn's Smart Tech line since it launched last year so I was thrilled to learn some of the collection's most practical pieces are finally on sale. The line includes gadget-friendly shelves, desks, chairs and even beds that incorporate easy plugs so your high-tech accessories can power up discreetly. Most of the furnishings have special MP3 player plugins with a recessed area for the device and play music with a pair of built-in speakers. The collection seems most appropriate for teen geeks, but the desk units and shelves are all adult approved. It might be time to redecorate my home office.

For a run down of more Smart Tech furniture,

Track Your Mood and To-Do List With Funky Mousepads

geeksugar — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 08:00:57 -0700

Finding unique mouse pads that don't have company logos on them isn't easy. The usual suspects often look cheap, silly, or just make you feel dumb. So why not use a mouse pad that's fun and functional? The Daily Mood Tracker Mouse Pad, $10, is actually a paper pad with empty mood categories (hey, you never know how you are gonna feel tomorrow!) and space where you can leave yourself notes and reminders. When it fills up, you can peel back the sheet and start again.

The company also makes an Information Central model, which has more space for notes and a Random Dawdle model for all your random dawdles and doodles.

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Thank You For Helping Me Thank My Parents!

geeksugar — Wed, 06 Feb 2008 09:02:36 -0800

I can't thank you guys enough for helping me do my Valentine's Day shopping. Together, we've picked out sweet stuff for boyfriends and girlfriends, and now I'm rounding up the great suggestions for parents this V-Day. My low-tech-but-learning folks would appreciate a lot of this stuff, and I think the best solution is this iPod RoadTrip by Griffin!

Since they both have iPods and spend a lot of time in the car, they could use this adapter to listen to their tunes (Fleetwood Mac and Bob Dylan fans, the both of them), plus this adapter charges and cradles their iPods. Plus, it's pretty basic so I don't foresee this gadget sitting around months later, still in its packaging!

I've also included other great geeky picks for moms and dads on Valentine's Day that you guys geek geared below. Check 'em out and get inspired!

Valentine's Day Follow-Up: Geeky Girlfriends!

geeksugar — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 09:02:22 -0800

I can't thank you guys enough for helping me get my Valentine's Day shopping done early—Boyfriend: Check! And the suggestions you guys have made for my girlfriends are amazing also!

I know that one of my girlfriends who's still kickin' it old school will love this Hot Lips Phone ($20) from Urban Outfitters — it's a vintage geek classic for sure. For the rest of my girlfriends, I'm definitely going to be using some of the fabulous suggestions you guys bookmarked for me. Check them all out below!

Valentine's Day Geeky Guy Gift Follow-Up!

geeksugar — Wed, 30 Jan 2008 11:03:14 -0800

Valentine's Day is less than three weeks away, and last week I asked you guys to help me get my shopping out of the way for my geeky guy.

I'm pretty close to getting this HomeDock Deluxe from DLO, and at $150, it's a splurgey but a decent price for a great gift. This fun little gadget will let my boyfriend (and me) navigate through his iPod onto our TV with the included remote.

Of course, I'm not totally set and am really digging the stuff you guys picked out for geeky guys on Valentine's Day. See some of the awesome picks below!

Help Me Find a Valentine's Day Gift For My Geeky Guy!

geeksugar — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 10:02:01 -0800

This year I have vowed to not be frantically hunting for a Valentine's Day gift for my geeky boyfriend during my lunch break on February 14.

Nope, because this year I am enlisting you to do my dirty work for me! I need your help to find the perfect gadget or gadget accessory for my Apple-obsessed, geeky-adorable boyfriend (and all the geeky guys you love as well)! Are you up for the challenge?

Find ideas for Valentine's Day geek gear and be sure to tag them "Valentines day geeky guy" and then come back next week and see if your Geek Gear was chosen!

To learn what Geek Gear is and how to bookmark on our site, click here.

To see some of my favorite online stores,

SanDisk Rolls Out Its Newest Alterna-Shuffle: The Clip

geeksugar — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 10:03:04 -0800

If you're a fan of the iPod Shuffle's portability and style, but can't stand the idea of shuffling through aimlessly awaiting your favorite song, the updated Sansa Clip may become your new BFF. Debuting at CES, the Clip comes with its very own sleek screen so you can actually see your tunes — and surprise — it also comes stocked with a 40-channel FM tuner on those days you just want to rock it old school. A 15-hour battery life ensures that it will take you from the bus, to work, to the gym, and back without missing a beat. Plus its cool, brushed-silver body and mirrored face is sure to make a statement among a sea of candy-colored players. And who wouldn't want to make a statement with their gadgets!? Super affordable at $80 for a 4GB player, the Clip may be just the thing to give Apple a run for its money.

Source

Wireless "Eye-Fi" Photo Card Available in More Places

geeksugar — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 09:00:15 -0800

Starting Jan. 11, Eye-Fi users can upload photos directly to Microsoft Windows Live, Microsoft Windows Live Photo Gallery, and Costco's Photo Center.

If you recall, the Eye-Fi is the first wireless memory card for digital cameras that allows users to wirelessly send photos directly from their digital camera to their computer or online photo sharing site using home Wi-Fi networks. These new upload choices mean Eye-Fi users will be able to select from a total of 20 photo destinations.

According to a press release, Eye-Fi cards will be sold at additional retail channels including Costco, PC Mall and Mac Mall for $100, which means the cards will be more readily available to all the photography geeks that want to test the cards out.

Kate Spade iPhone Case: Pretty and Patterned

geeksugar — Sat, 05 Jan 2008 05:00:00 -0800

The Kate Spade "noel mark" was created as a simple, graphic icon for the company. While I'm usually overwhelmed by patterns, I can't help but be charmed by this Classic Noel Portable Media Case (translation: iPhone case) because the pattern provides a nice juxtaposition against the iPhone's classic clean lines. It was actually designed to fit the iPhone, iTouch, and all iPod classic styles. It costs $55 and I'm in love.

Geek Gear: Mu-Bot Robot Earphones For iPod

geeksugar — Wed, 02 Jan 2008 14:30:42 -0800

Robot love + deck accessory + music = The Mu-Bot Robot Earphones for iPod. Sure, it's not the most practical item ever, but the Mu-Bot Robot Earphones for iPod are — at the very least — multifunctional. They work as earphones, but the cord can be reeled inside the bot's tiny body for a cute desk accessory. You can wear the Mu-bot around your neck or have it stand next to your iPod (or any other MP3 player). The devices are currently sold out (hello, have you seen how adorable they are?!) but they should be back on the market soon. Something tells me Mimo Bot fans will buy out the next shipment, too.

Source

Did You Get Any Gadgets?

geeksugar — Wed, 26 Dec 2007 07:03:58 -0800

I tried to do most of my holiday shopping on Black Friday this year so everyone close to me ended up getting gadget gifts. Not that anyone was complaining! Did you get any gadgets or gizmos this holiday season?

Why You Should Give Someone TiVo's Lifetime Service

geeksugar — Sat, 15 Dec 2007 08:01:43 -0800

TiVo is one of those luxuries that you simply can't live without once you've grown accustomed to it. If you don't like commercials but love TV it will make you feel like you've won the entertainment lottery. You can keep up with shows you like, ignore ads and boring scenes and spend less time looking for something to watch.

I hate to say there is a downfall to TiVo, but if there is one, it's the fact that the boxes are relatively cheap, but you have to pay a monthly service charge (it ranges from $12.95 a month to $299 for three years). Here's the good news: TiVo is offering a special for its current customers. For a limited time you can give a friend the gift of a TiVo HD with Lifetime Service. The deal comes with the TiVo DVR, a wireless adapter and a TiVo product Lifetime Service card. It costs about $700, but you'll be covered for a "lifetime." While pricey, it's honestly the best gift ever and is a great gift to yourself if you were thinking of upgrading.

DIY Photo Blocks: Love It or Leave It?

geeksugar — Wed, 12 Dec 2007 16:00:56 -0800

I've shared the guide to creating DIY photo cubes before, but the DIY Photo Blocks from elsewares.com look like they would make the project easier than ever. The kit includes everything you need to create two photo-block sets, leading me to believe it's a great holiday gift option. It apparently ships with easy instructions and all materials, but you have to provide the 4-x-6-inch photos, scissors, and ruler.

DIY Photo Blocks: Love It or Leave It?

Love it

Leave it

Something else. See comment below.

Funky iPod Speaker Docks

geeksugar — Fri, 07 Dec 2007 09:00:09 -0800

In the past couple of years iPod speaker docks have become one of the most replicated and abundant novelty items on the gadget scene. Every major electronics manufacturer has released one, two or even five models. Whether built in alarm clocks, lamps or waterproof bottles, iPod docks offer iPod enjoyment sans earbuds.

The holiday gift giving season means there are iPod speaker docks for sale in virtually every store. I figure if you're not looking for a high quality speaker system to use every day and are in the market for a small set you might as well get a fun one with a funky flair. Take for instance this The Attic Radio Speaker, $98. It combines that classic antique attic feel with audiophile engineering. What's not to love?

Sundance Camera Tee: Totally Geeky or Geek Chic?

geeksugar — Tue, 04 Dec 2007 13:00:07 -0800

I can't help but love the Sundance Camera Tee ($45). It looks cozy and its design is classic geek chic. Sure it would be a little overkill if you paired it with camera earrings and a camera ring, but alone it's cute and artsy. Do you agree?

Sundance Camera Tee: Totally Geeky or Geek Chic?

Totally geeky.

Geek chic.

It's so _______. (Leave answer in comments!)

Leica Mini Digital Camera

geeksugar — Sat, 01 Dec 2007 07:00:50 -0800

The Leica Mini Digital Camera is perfect for all of us who drooled over Jennifer Connelly's fancy Leica camera in last year's Blood Diamond or the uber chic Leica M8 Scarlett Johansson used on the set of a Woody Allen project.

As you can see from the picture, the mini camera looks just like the real thing, but instead of costing at least $4,795 on Amazon, this one costs a mere $225. And yes, it works. The device is part of Minox's Classic Camera series and is a miniaturized Leica M3, a 5.0 Megapixel digital camera.

Colorful Carriers: Lollipop Laptop Bags

geeksugar — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 08:00:40 -0800

I've always been a fan of colorful laptop bags so I'm naturally a big fan of these Lollipop Laptop Bags, $74. They are covered in moisture resistant nylon with soft faux leather handles and come with a padded accessories bag that keeps cords, cables and chargers from becoming tangled or damaged. I like the color and fabric contrast of the handles and the fact that they look like laptop bags, but are priced like laptop sleeves.

Fortune Cookie USB Drives: Your Docs Will Be Safe

geeksugar — Wed, 28 Nov 2007 10:02:39 -0800

I've always been a fan of fun, food-related USB drives (remember the wacky, but yummy looking Donut USB and USB cake?) so I got a real kick out of the Fortune Cookie USB Drives from Vavolo. Part of the "Freshly Baked Series 2," the Fortune Cookie USB Drives come in multiple colors and 1GB ($30) and 2GB ($40) editions. I can't help but love them.

Chip Monitor Mirror: Totally Geeky or Geek Chic?

geeksugar — Tue, 13 Nov 2007 16:00:45 -0800

All the other monitor mirrors on the market seem like novelty, vanity pieces in comparison to the Chimp Monitor Mirror ($9.99). While the device does include a mirror, it seems to be made for those of us who are convinced our coworkers and bosses like to sneak up on us, not just the crowd that wants to have a handy lip-gloss mirror.It's a convex mirror (3 inches in diameter) that fits easily on either corner of your monitor with accompanying Velcro. It comes in black or white.

Chip Monitor Mirror: Totally Geeky or Geek Chic?

Totally Geeky

Geek Chic

It's so ______. (Leave answer in comments.)

Barry's Farm Robot Laptop Sleeve

geeksugar — Sat, 10 Nov 2007 13:04:14 -0800

I found a selection of adorable laptop sleeves from Barry's Farm a few weeks ago and PetSugar actually purchased one with an "awww" worthy hedgehog print, prompting jealousy from all the gals in the office. I'll admit though, the designs I showed you were a tad girlie and a few male readers emailed asking if the company has anything for those with more masculine tastes. Boy do they ever! The Barry's Farm Robot Laptop Sleeve, $40, features a cute robotic figure and customizable phrases like "Zorp!" on it.

iPod Mono Strap Backpack: Geeky or Geek Chic?

geeksugar — Mon, 05 Nov 2007 16:00:44 -0800

I've seen jackets with built in iPod controls, cycling bibs with iPod controls and even some traditional Lederhosen with not-so-traditional iPod controls, but I've never seen a backpack or bag with simple iPod controls on the strap. The iPod Mono Strap Backpack allows you to store your iPod inside the bag's duratex nylon exterior, while controlling the five button ElekTex Smart Fabric control panel on the strap. It costs $89.99.

iPod Mono Strap Backpack: Geeky or Geek Chic?

Totally Geeky

Geek Chic

It's so ______. (Leave answer in comments)

Geek Apparel: Star Wars Tee Shirts

geeksugar — Sat, 03 Nov 2007 05:00:11 -0700

Having recently determined that Star Wars is more chic than Star Trek — at least in terms of costumes — I was excited to find these Darth Vader, Luke, Chewbacca and R2D2 tee shirts from Urban Outfitters, $28.

They don't hold a candle to the elaborate lineup of geeky guy tee shirts we found earlier this year, but the theme warrants serious geek clout. Just think of all the heavy breathing, squeaky noises and "may the force be with you" jokes you could make while wearing them.

If the tees are too masculine for you consider purchasing them as a holiday gift for the male geek in your life. You can't go wrong with Star Wars. Ever.

iPod Swimbelts: Pricey, But Ready for Water and Wear

geeksugar — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 14:00:21 -0700

Despite the fact that we've hit winter weather, manufacturers want us to believe waterproof iPod accessories are the new black. A company called Swimbelt has a series of waterproof holsters for iPod video, shuffle and nano, $39.99, that were designed to work while fully submerged in the pool. The belts are made of neoprene that is resistant to the effects of oils, solvents, heat, and water. You have to purchase the H2O Waterproof Case, $79.99, and waterproof headphones, $49.99 separately, which means a waterproof set will put you out nearly $170 on top of the cost of your iPod. I think the price begs the question, is the ability to listen to music underwater worth it?

Free People Sleeping Bag Laptop Cozy

geeksugar — Sat, 27 Oct 2007 08:08:04 -0700

I'm a fan of Free People's clothes with youthful colors and prints, so I was excited to learn the company also makes laptop sleeves.

The Sleeping Bag Laptop Cozy, $58, may seem like a silly idea given how hot most laptops get, but the material offers a unique look and trendy take on laptop transportation and is surprisingly breathable.

The best part is the cases are made from vintage sleeping bags, so they are even more green than their color.

The small size fits a 13-inch laptop, medium a 15-inch laptop and the large fits a 17-inch laptop.

WiFi Detector Shirt: Totally Geeky or Geek Chic?

geeksugar — Fri, 26 Oct 2007 07:00:21 -0700

The WiFi Detector Shirt, $29.99, is a little masculine for my taste, but I'm totally intrigued by its capabilities. The glowing bars on the front of the shirt dynamically change as the surrounding WiFi signal strength fluctuates, so you can just look down on your chest and see if there's a signal. Luckily for those of us that are into being clean, the animated decal is removable (with hook and loop fasteners) for easy washing. Is it chic, or geek apparel gone bad?

WiFi Detector Shirt: Totally Geeky or Geek Chic?

Totally Geeky

Geek Chic

It's so ______. (Leave answer in comments)

Dot Matrix Wallet: Totally Geeky or Geek Chic?

geeksugar — Wed, 24 Oct 2007 16:00:30 -0700

There are a lot of geek items out there that we might want, but we really don't need. I'll never use a digital keychain, but I want one. I can't imagine even trying on a Cycling Bib With Built-in MP3 player, but I wouldn't mind seeing someone else in one. The Dot Matrix Billfold, $15, falls in that same category, of semi-useless, but very entertaining items. It's covered in Dot Matrix printer type, showcasing the first 3,000 digits of pi. Yeah, it's that geeky.Still, I think the subtle colors and print offer a certain element of chic. Am I crazy?

Dot Matrix Wallet: Totally Geeky or Geek Chic?

Totally Geeky

Geek Chic

It's so ______. (Leave answer in comments)

Get Serena van der Woodsen's iPhone Case

geeksugar — Wed, 24 Oct 2007 06:00:48 -0700

Like everyone else in my age demographic I've fallen in love with Gossip Girl. Not only is the show glossy and fun, but it's filled with pretty fashionable clothes and gadgets.

After creating the Gossip Girl Tech Quiz for the show's "Date Devil" episode, I realized I had seen Serena van der Woodsen's iPhone case before. Serena seems to be using a Vaja case, which is a slightly larger version of the purple i-volution Lady Holster, $80, which I featured a few weeks ago.

The Vaja cases lack screen protectors, but they do provide access to all the phone's functions and includes a top clip so you can turn it on its side.

Watch Gossip Girl tonight and pay close attention to all the gadgets and gizmos on the show. I'll be quizzing you on the goods tomorrow!

Photo courtesy of The CW

Wireless WildCharger Gadget Charger Now Available

geeksugar — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 12:00:55 -0700

Most of you were really excited when I introduced you to the WildCharger Wireless Charger this past summer and now, after a long wait, the device is finally available to consumers.

The WildCharger pad and its device adapters offer a neat wire-free power solution and aim to cure the madness of cords, chargers, adapters and congested outlets by offering a single pad that does it all.

The company has launched with adapters for Motorola RAZR cell phones as well as the iPod Nano. They plan on also releasing adapters for Blackberrys and smart phones this winter.

Cute Hedgehog Cell Phone Cozies

geeksugar — Mon, 15 Oct 2007 03:00:53 -0700

I'll admit it, I have a thing for hedgehogs. Maybe it's remnants of my childhood love for Sonic the Hedgehog, or maybe it's just the fact that they are so cute, but I tend to gush whenever I see them. These Hedgehog cell phone cozies from Etsy are no exception. They were designed to "eat" i-Pods, cameras, cosmetics and even gum, and are made out of a Japanese-style handmade fabric "Sakiori." They cost $42 and come in a variety of patterns.

USB 'Hot Cushion': Totally Geeky or Geek Chic?

geeksugar — Wed, 03 Oct 2007 13:00:21 -0700

I've always been a bit weary of USB heated items such as the furry USB heated cape and the USB Absinthe Spoon so it shouldn't come as any shock that the USB Hot Cushion gets me a little heated. Honestly, I just can't fathom sitting on anything that's being heated by my computer. Am I right, or do you actually like the idea of sitting on a cushion that's warmed by your computer?

USB 'Hot Cushion': Totally Geeky or Geek Chic?

Totally Geeky

Geek Chic

It's so ______. (Leave answer in comments)

The nekFIT Holds Your iPod On The Back Of Your Neck

geeksugar — Wed, 03 Oct 2007 03:00:39 -0700

I have yet to find the perfect iPod holder for working out. I need something that will hold my iPod securely, allows easy access to my buttons and will prevent wires from dangling all over the place. Having said that, I'm open to trying out any and all products that somewhat adhere to my criteria. The nekFIT shown here is said to be lightweight, offers complete mobility and eliminates tangled wires. Discussed on Gearfuse, the nekFIT comes in three flexible iPod clip sizes to fit all the various iPods. The company claims that you can easily change songs although I'm going to assume you need eyes on the back of your head to complete this task. The actual video of it in use (which you can check out below) makes it look kinda neat — I guess I can't knock it till I try it! In the meantime, I'm going to give the sports cap and new Nano armband by Belkin a test drive. The nekFIT is priced at $34.

To check out the nekFIT video, just

Cross Shaped MP3 Player Fits Across Your Heart

geeksugar — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 03:00:35 -0700

The Cross MP3 player first caught my eye because of its shape, but I was even more intrigued when I noticed the player, which combines an element of geekery and jewelry, is only $36.

I learned from 2dayBlog that it features a built-in loudspeaker, has phone-book, electronic files, FM radio, voice recording and supports MP3 and WAV files. No word whether it was created to represent a geometrical figure or the four cardinal points, but if it is supposed to be a religious player I think it definitely beat out the iBelieve shuffle player.