Gizmodo: add-ons

Browse a Censored Web Through the China Channel FireFox Plugin

Mark Wilson — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 13:30:00 EDT

It's no secret that the Chinese government censors web content, but what's it like to actually be a citizen trapped inside the Great Firewall of China? A new FireFox plugin called China Channel can show you. It reroutes your IP through China, allowing you to look like any other digital Chinese citizen from anywhere in the world. Click on a banned site and BAM! You lose your browsing privileges for 15 minutes. But luckily, in this version, you can just reopen the browser with a newly assigned IP. To see an example clip that walks you through installation and browsing, read on.

Now if only the Chinese government could censor that damn song... [China Channel via MAKE]

MousEeX Mouse Glider Adds Weird Functionality to Your Mouse

Jason Chen — Mon, 26 Nov 2007 21:30:21 EST

The MousEX Glider pad is weird in the sense that most people wouldn't come up with a pad you rest your mouse on that you slide around with your hand. Why would anybody do this?

Because that same pad holds different add-ons like a navigational wheel, a giant button, or an 18-button pad that you can program macros onto. We're not sold on the concept, especially since placing your hand flat on a pad and sliding it around is way less ergonomic than using a mouse. However, we love programmable macro buttons dogs love peeing in the grass, so we're willing to give this a shot. [MousEX]

iSkin, DLO and XtremeMac Intro iPhone Stuff

Wilson Rothman — Mon, 02 Jul 2007 14:45:00 EDT

Man, it's like all of these accessories makers have been just waiting for iPhone to launch. First we had the availability announcement of Belkin cases and accessories, now DLO, iSkin and XtremeMac have jumped on the pile-up with some wild, if not all universally appealing, add-ons.

iSkin has a futuristically styled case, the "revo," silicone with an embedded antimicrobial agent to keep you healthy as you fling your iPhone into germ-infested situations. Revo also includes "a touch-compatible privacy film and a ViSOR, an ultra-clear polycarbonate scratch resistant screen guard for the large iPhone screen." It will set you back $39.99.

DLO Jam Jacket - $24.99 - It's a silicone case that comes in Black, Blue, Pink and Frost. There's a "headset management system" (that is, a few hooks so the wire doesn't tangle up). DLO promises "total access to iPhone controls" too.

DLO HipCase - $34.99 - For gentlemen who like to wear their phones on their belts (if not their pride on their sleeves). This leather flip-up case provides access to iPhone headset jack, even when closed.

DLO says an Action Jacket to protect iPhone from sweat is coming, along with updated iPhone compatible hardware such as an AutoCharger and a TransDock Deluxe with steering wheel-mounted remote control.

XtremeMac steps up with its first hardware, the $19.95 InCharge Auto car charger that boasts the official "Works With iPhone" seal of approval. By coincidence, it's also "Made for iPod."

Belkin iPhone Accessories Arrive

Wilson Rothman — Mon, 02 Jul 2007 11:00:00 EDT

Belkin just announced its lineup of iPhone accessories. There are three cases we gave you a video peek at last week: a clear acrylic one for protection and use on-the-go, a sport armband and a leather wallet, each for a reasonable $30. But that's not all.

There are two stereo audio cables that resemble many that you certainly already own except for one key difference: They actually fit in the iPhone's mysteriously recessed 3.5mm stereo jack. The grand finale is an $11 adapter that lets you use the headphones and stereo cables you already spent your hard-earned dollars on.

If I sound a little grouchy about this brave new "made for iPhone" future, it's because I have several moving boxes full of stereo cables, headphones and adapters that would work just fine with the iPhone, were it not for that little, uh, design choice.

Belkin Cases and Cables Accessorize Your New iPhone
(Compton, CA) - July 2, 2007 - Belkin releases new cases and cables for the iPhone. A Sport Armband, and Acrylic and Slim-Fit Cases let you carry your iPhone anywhere and keep it fully protected. The Stereo and Mini-Stereo Cables allow you to listen to your tunes through your home stereo system or portable speakers.

AVAILABILITY
July 2007 with launches in Asia, Europe, and Australia to follow.

Acrylic Case for iPhone (F8Z172) - $29.99
• Thin, compact protection for pocket carrying
• Hard acrylic case for maximum protection
• Full access to hard keys, ports, and navigation screen
• Transformable kickstand/belt clip for video viewing

Slim-Fit Case for iPhone (F8Z169-BLK) - $29.99
• Premium, designer leather
• Removable belt clip
• Easy removal of your iPhone through mesh base
• Mesh base allows for full speaker volume
• Padded exterior for extra comfort

Sport Armband for iPhone (F8Z170-KG) - $29.99
• Machine-washable
• Included pocket for key or earbud storage
• Full screen protection and navigation access
• Breathable material for maximum comfort

Mini-Stereo Cable for iPhone (F8Z181-06-GLD) - $19.99
• 3.5mm plug to 3.5mm plug
• 6 ft. cable
• Chrome-finished connectors and nickel-plated contacts

Stereo Cable for iPhone (F8Z180-07-GLD) - $14.99
• 3.5mm plug to RCA
• 7 ft. cable
• Chrome-finished connectors and nickel-plated contacts
• Color-coated connectors

Headphone Adapter for iPhone (F8Z177) - $10.95
• Offers a fast and easy way to connect any 3.5mm stereo headphones
• Works with all Belkin cases for iPhone
• Comes with a Belkin Lifetime Warranty