Apple has really blown our minds away with their latest and greatest Smart Cover revelation, yesterday morning. Designed specifically for iPad 2 devices, the fabulous and colorful covers – soon to be offered in polyurethane or leather flavors – Are made of durable materials and feature a clean design, elegant simplicity, and convenient use. Just snap-on the magnetic attachment, fold it to a triangle stand or get a full iPad protection cover in the most efficient way. So far so good, right? well, not exactly. To put things in the proper context, it looks like Apple didn’t really come up with the Smart Cover idea first. So who did? It was technology protection accessories leader, Incase, that brought it up with its wonderful iPad Convertible Magazine Jacket. Shocking! This isn’t Apple’s original idea, and all that’s left is to figure out whether the Cupertino designing division got permission to use Incase design, got inspired from it, or just “borrowed” the idea without even asking. A few pictures of Incase’s Convertible Magazine Jacket after the break. What do you think?

Update: Incase has finally gotten in contact with us and said the following:

“we will not be commenting on Apple’s case offering for the iPad 2.”

Is anyone surprised?

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Apple’s OS 3.0 preview event in Cupertino, California was just ended with some interesting announcements concerning hardware accessories, firmware tweaks, App Store business model improvements and some new games/software developments – answering most of our long lasting expectations. Although it was more of a conference, targeting third party developers, some of the news are all about iPhone’s consumers usability. That includes:

• Copy & Paste capabilities.
• MMS messaging support.
• Forward and delete for multiple messages.
• Peer-to-peer connectivity over Bluetooth for gaming and info exchange.
• A2DP stereo Bluetooth add-on
• Voice Memos.
• A new home screen page with Spotlight feature, allowing universal search on the phone (like Palm’s Pre).
• Shake To Shuffle function.
• Landscape keyboard, available in Mail, Notes and SMS.

First event without Steve Jobs around, and everyone in Apple talks about a complete return to CEO position somewhere around June 2009. But illness matters aside, we’ve learned that the company craves for extra revenues, specially from third-party applications. That is why developers will be able to include subscription fee inside paid apps, together with optional paid content that can be purchased directly from the app itself (like T-shirts and other stuff). Developers will also be able to build apps combined with Google Maps or connect with hardware accessories, such as computer speakers, keyboard and even a blood pressure monitor, through their applications. The new package will include 1,000 new APIs, allowing push notifications (at last), in-game voice use and built-in tethering functionality, that will hopefully work in the future. Other than that, users will get auto WiFi login around hotspots, full parental controls over TV shows/App Store apps and even Bluetooth functionality, in case you’re a 2G iPod touch owners.

OS 3.0 Beta version for developers is now available in here. The other 3.0 firmware update for consumers will be launched in the summer, free of charge. Those who hold iPod Touch devices in their hands will have to pay the usual annoying fee (which stands at $9.95), to get the new version.

Update1: checkout the video after the break.

Update2: iPhone OS 3.0 beta 2 was just released (for developers) and looks like we’re about to get the opportunity to use up to 11 home screens instead of the 9 screens limit on the current one. Additionally, Apple will finally add the push notifications feature in the upcoming version, so here’s a good reason to look forward for something.

Update3: You’ve guessed it right, the guys at QuickPwn have just kicked in with their latest release, which jailbreaks Apple’s OS 3.0 for free use. As always – at your risk – just to the following link, as download is available in here.

Update4: Looks like you’ll also get Voice Control (which stands for voice dialing), together with some other goodies like video recording, auto-focus camera, a compass and a digital battery indicator.

[Apple]

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How many times have you encountered with difficulties to write on your PS3 game console through the lame virtual keyboard UI and the retard SIXAXIS controller? Well, guess what, hot news are coming from the Leipzig Games Convention, as Sony unveils a wireless keypad attachment, that hooks onto your SIXAXIS/DIALSHOCK3 game pad and lets you use the built-in keypad comfortably, whenever you need it. Mind you, the unit is compatible with other Bluetooth enabled devices, such as mobile phones and other gadgets. Still no word on price but we do know it will go live around November 2008, in 8 different assimilated languages.

Update: you can now pre-order it at Amazon for $49.99. Regretfully, you will have to wait until November for shipping.

[via joystiq]

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Although earphones are no stranger to Logitech, the company has announced it’s aquiring US-based company Ultimate Ears, a market leader in custom in-ear monitors for on-stage musicians and iPod or iPhone consumers. The $34 million price tag is fairly reasonable, as it gives Logitech the abillity to strongly penetrate the mp3 players niche with quality in-ear earbuds, and to expand its portfolio of digital audio products. The acquisition is subject to customary closing conditions and is expected to close in August.

[via Ultimate Ears]

We all face the difficulties in controlling our iPod player as we drive our car or do some sport activities. To solve this problem DirectVoxx has developed the Muso, a voice recognition dongle that jams into the bottom of the player and allows to access your music libraries with natural voice commands. Mind you, no training required so you can start commanding your iPod from the moment the Muso is plugged in, by simply offering requests such as “play me Madonna”, or “play me something like the last song.” Having said that, the Muso is not a cheap solution and if you look for this kind of accessory, it is expected to make a debut on Xmas time for $159, which is probably more expensive than your very own nano. Meanwhile, checkout the video after the break.

[via techvibes]

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iPhone 3G has been launched couple days ago and we can already hear complaints of short battery life, caused by excessive 3G network and GPS usage. To solve this problem and let long distance travelers enjoy better and longer battery performance with their new handset, we’re glad to find the announcement of the Dexim BluePack extended battery solution, coming up on August and already available for pre-order. This new lithium ion battery for iPhone 3G provides a capacity of 1,200mAh, offering 36 additional hours for music, 7 additional hours for video, and 3.5 for communication, once charged via the USB connection. To get one for $79.72, hit the link below. There’s another picture after the break.

[via geekstuff4u]

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While new games are about to be released for the iphone and iPod Touch devices within the near future, the iControlPad project might be a nice playable alternative to handle the controls instead of the clumsy touchscreen solution. It is actually a gamepad device that your jailbroken iphone  can slide into (without any special modifications)  in order to improve your gaming experience and make it more accessible. Release date is set to mid July for only $30, so if you plan buying some of the new titles and turn your handset into a PSP-alike device, just follow up the updates to come.

[icontrolpad via gmp3]

The lack of recording capabilities in iPod players brings companies to look for useful solutions. One of them is Alesis, who’ve created the ProTrack device that turns your iPod into a handheld digital stereo recorder, thanks to the two built-in condenser microphones and a pair of XLR – 1/4-inch inputs that enable external mics and line connection. Mind you, it can only work with iPod classic, iPod 5G, or iPod nano 2G/3G devices, so if capturing sound effects, recitals, jam sessions, speeches, interviews, rehearsals, performances, meetings, lectures, notes-to-self, or any other audio material directly to iPod is essential for you, and i bet it is, look for this one sometime in Q3, for undisclosed price. Check the specs after the break.

 [Alesis via Gizmodo]

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Japanese company, named RockRidgeSound, has announced the release of the iClooly, a nice iMac-inspired aluminum stand for your iPod Touch player, that serves as a 90° pivot with the ability to swivel it Horizontally or Vertically in a tilt of a finger. In addition, it can hook up to a dock-connector and a set of headphones, so you can watch your favorite movies hands-free. This nice accessory is expected to be released on June 7th for $47. More pictures after the break.

[via gmp3]

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R2-D2 and Darth Vader are well known Sci-Fi Star Wars characters and from now on they officially been transformed into USB hub figures, thanks to Japanese company Cube-Works, who’ve managed to shift them from spaceship robots into your desktop companion, equipped with 4 full-speed USB ports on their front, for easy connection to your PC. In addition, you will be glad to hear that R2-D2′s head moves and lights up every 3 minutes, as Vader’s eyeballs glow with the appropriated sound effects. Release date was set to July – Japan only – so if you’re a Star Wars aficionado, I guess distance and $66 price tag won’t stop you from getting them.Checkup the videos after the break:

[via akihabaranews]

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This new ClearBoost case from Griffin, has a built-in booster antenna that enhance the wireless signal and sends it to the iPhone internal antenna, so you can get a better wifi connection to enlarge service areas, surf the net and get emails via your handset. In addition, it provides hard-shell protection for the iPhone, keeping it unscratched from top to bottom. Mind you, recent reviews state that the “signal boost works only under certain conditions” and “does not appear to improve iPhone performance under weakest signal conditions“. However, in some cases, the ClearBoost “deliver—improved cellular antenna performance…” and “can help stabilize shaky data and cell phone audio conditions when iPhone is in 2-3 bar range“. In any case, the Griffin ClearBoost is a worth trying accessory, priced at merely $35.

[via iLounge]

We’ve been posting about iPhone pens in the past, but it seems this new Diatec Filco stylus pen is more accurate, convenient and easy to use with your iPhone or iPod Touch devices. As a reminder, not every stylus is compatible with Apple’s multi- touchscreen technology so you have to choose the right one for your own use, that will prevent greasy smudges all over the screen. The pen simulates the fingers support and assist tapping precisely on the thin keyboard letters or the narrow internet links. In addition, it allows zooming in or out and sliding photos exactly as the finger does. It is set to be released during April for almost $20.

[Diatec via gmp3]

I’m really trying hard to hold my patient until next month,  craving for the most anticipated game of the year, GTA IV. Meanwhile, Microsoft has announced the release of a limited edition Grand Theft Auto IV, designed for the Xbox 360. The console will include a nice sided GTA IV graphics and a really really cool briefcase, packed with all the needed accessories like a remote control, a webcam, a headset, a wireless controller with an integrated keyboard, and more. Remember, it is a limited edition pack so only 500 pieces of this treasure are set to be released, don’t count on getting one.

[via slashgear]

Another picture after the break.

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This new gadget from Asus integrates between a USB flash drive and a mouse, yes a MOUSE. Though i’m doubtful it will fit ergonomically the palm of your hand, the Asus MS71 features a wireless mouse with left & right buttons and a scroll wheel in between. In addition, it serves as a flash drive to store uncertain amount of files to carry on the go. No word on price or availability but if you’re really running out of place in your lappy bag, consider having one.

[via engadget]

Sony has announced a new PSP cradle, to be available in Japan  in April 24th. The new desirable cradle enables PSP users to output movies or games straight to their TV box and control it directly from their couch with a supplied IR remote. You get the choice to choose between a $46 cradle or a $62 cradle, bundled with A/V cables. It seems the cradle is a must product for PSP users and we welcome the idea, hopefully to be hitting our western shores – soon.

[via kotaku]

Sony has announced that the DualShock 3 game controller will go live in the US in April 2008. The SIXAXIS version was first released in Japan, a few months ago, and now it’s heading stateside. If you don’t have any plans to visit Tokyo with in a month, the DualShock 3 will be yours for $54.99.

[via kotaku]

Creative unveils 4 new Plug n Play webcams for your notebooks, with built-in microphones and a sleeky design. The new Live! Cam series includes the Notebook Pro VF0400, Notebook Pro VF0250, Notebook, and the Notebook Ultra models. The one that has captured our eyes was the Live! Cam Notebook Ultra with a true 1.3 megapixel resolution and up to 5 megapixel image capture still. The Live! Cam Notebook Ultra supports a Wide-Angle Precision Lens, smooth full-motion 30fps digital video streams, a Smart Face Tracking function, 240 degrees swivel rotation, a strong PowerGrip to fit your lappy, a special effects add-on, and a hands-free stereo headset in the bundle, to speak with your friends on Skype, Windows Live Messenger, Yahoo! Messenger and other compatible messaging services. If you like the new Live! Cam Notebook Ultra, like we do, you can get yours for merely $120.

[via Creative]

E-Light is an indoor/outdoor entertainment light, featuring  high-output LED lights, providing 6 – 12 hours of glowing illumination. This cordless light clamps onto your umbrella pole for a convenient outdoor decoration or indoor design. The E-Light has a standard headphone jack, allowing you to connect your iPods and listen to your favorite music via acoustically balanced stereo speakers, delivering high-quality sound. The E-Light comes with 4 AA NiMH rechargeable batteries and you can get yours for $99.50.

[via gmp3]

LG Electronics unveils the next futuristic mobile phones concept at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona. The new “Watch Phones” lineup featuring cellular capabilities with voice recognition, SMS text messaging and Bluetooth connectivity for a full hands-free dialing. No info concerning price or availability.

[via aving]

Check out the next picture and the video after the break.

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This new USB mini-plug adapter from Novodio can easily connect your iPod player (or your iPhone) into the wall and charge it without other accessories. The tiny plug has a USB hub on one side and an outlet connection on the other side, for direct charging. Being so small, it takes no place in your luggage and costs around 22$.

[via gmp3]

Another picture after the break.

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