Gizmodo: banana

Bonanza Banana Flash Drive Has a Bunch of Memory (8GB, Actually)

AddyDugdale — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 07:05:00 EDT

When I saw this Bonanza banana, I thought of this. Eddie Murphy stuck one up a tailpipe, now you can stick a banana up your USB port—well, you can stick it wherever you like, it's Friday and we're all adults here. The fruity flash drive has an 8GB capacity, looks lovely, tastes rubbery, and is made by a firm called Hantat. [AVING via Pocket-lint]

Yes, We Have Some Bananas, 'Cause We Saved Them With NANA Saver

Kit Eaton — Thu, 17 Apr 2008 08:15:09 EDT

Whole bananas just look after themselves in your fruit bowl until they go all brown and spotty. But if your recipe calls for half a banana, then you know the spare hemibanana is going to go all gooshy really fast and you'll end up binning it. That's where NANA Saver comes in, with its pincer-like action grabbing onto the end of your bisected fruit and protecting it with a little sealing plate, keeping it fresh from the air. Simple, and only $2.98. Or you just could eat the other half. I'm just saying. [Product via Nerd Approved]

Streamlined Speedo Swim Suit Is Too Slippery When Wet

Jack Loftus — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 21:30:00 EDT

Officials from the International Swimming Federation (aka FINA) want to speak with Speedo next week about their high-tech swimsuit. Seems the athletes who use the swimsuit are breaking all sorts of records and, with the Olympics coming up, FINA doesn't want anyone getting an unfair advantage. Unfortunately for FINA, the only real resolutions appear to be a general ban, which Speedo would protest, or to allow every country to wear it in violation of their existing equipment contracts. The last option is probably the most appealing: FINA brings back the old suits and those swim team shaving parties of yesteryear. [MSNBC]

Banana Laptop Mod; Apple Got The Wrong Fruit

Haroon Malik — Sun, 02 Sep 2007 14:00:00 EDT

The Apple fanboys amongst us (myself included) are going to have to eat some serious, humble banoffee pie. Check out this sweet laptop mod.

We are calling it the Banana Laptop. Reasons for this lie in the fact there is a banana fashioned into the laptop's cover. Genius. I never thought I would say this, but Cupertino should be shitting bricks right about now. Okay, so it is a pretty awful mod, but full marks for effort. Still, if it is running Windows, it does not look half as bad as the UI. (Ooh, bitchy!) [Make].

Scratched Disc? Banana to the Rescue

Charlie White — Fri, 10 Aug 2007 15:30:00 EDT

There are a variety of scratch removal devices for CDs and DVDs, but whoever thought of using such a readily available foodstuff—that proof of creation itself, the everyday banana? Watch the video to see how to render your videos suddenly watchable, using banana goo and the banana's waxy peel to miraculously fix that Netflix disc that arrived at your house looking like a skating rink. [Neatorama]

The Motorola Z8 Multimedia Phone Uploads to YouTube/MySpace/Flickr, Still Looks Like a Banana

Jason Chen — Tue, 15 May 2007 17:29:44 EDT

We saw the Motorola Z8 before, with its banana-ish sliding body, but Motorola seems to have added some new software features since 3GSM.

For the specs, it runs Symbian OS, HSDPA, 2.2-inch screen, 30fps video, 4GB microSD card, and movies thanks to Universal, Sony and Warner. There's also streaming video from Sky or CNN over its 3G, complete with a mini DVR-like system that you can watch shows anytime. It's Moto's multimedia-centric phone, which changes its form depending on what function is in use. Better yet, there's YouTube, MySpace and Flickr uploading.

It does more than that.

However, instead of downloading movies on your PC to put it onto the Z8, they're going to sell cards with movies pre-installed so you can plug those into your phone. We saw how well that worked out with the PSP, but maybe placing it onto an SD card will make a difference.

Moto also announced that there's going to be gaming (via studios like EA), as well as taking video and pictures and uploading it to sites like Flickr and Myspace (the UI in the video above). That's similar to the Nokia N95 we've been playing around with. You can even use it to blog, if you're into that kind of thing.

– Jason Chen

MOTO™ Z8 Kick start your day with the new MOTO Z8. Reinventing the slider phone, the MOTO Z8 brings multimedia, speed, pleasure and mobile broadband1 to your fingertips. Providing you with the ultimate in entertainment, the MOTO Z8 allows you to watch crystal clear video at 30 frames per second through a large QVGA 16m TFT display. The device also supports optional expandable memory up to 4GB using microSD, which is enough space for full length movies or hours of music. Music can be enjoyed wirelessly utilising Bluetooth™ wireless technology that, when combined with an optional Bluetooth enabled stereo headset such as the Motorola Bluetooth Active Headphones S9, provides complete wireless control and freedom.1 Feature packed, at 15.3 millimeters, the MOTO Z8 is not much larger than the classic MOTORAZR™ waist band. Providing an innovative and exciting mobile experience the MOTO Z8 allows you to enjoy your multimedia content while on the go with crystal clear video and high fidelity sound. Whether you're watching or streaming video2 or having a lengthy conversation, the MOTO Z8 is much more than your typical slider - it's a revolution in mobile multimedia. Goodbye image. Hello reality.
Lightning Fast Speed
For instant gratification when you need the right content, the MOTO Z8 and its HSDPA, Symbian software and 3.5G enablers will come through for you. The MOTO Z8 not only delivers quick access to content, it delivers smooth services and experiences directly to your phone. Staying entertained has never been easier - watch pin sharp videos on the 2.2 inch screen or access on-demand content directly on your handset.2 Harnessing the power of mobile broadband, download content over-the-air (OTA) - getting your music, video files, games or even accessing the Internet has never been easier.2 From sharing photos to rocking out to your own personal soundtrack, saying you'll be satisified is an understatement.

Instant Access
From fashion gurus to multimedia junkies, the new MOTO Z8 has something to offer all consumers. Bursting with multimedia capabilities, this do-it-all handset includes a powerful 2.0 megapixel camera with dedicated shutter button for one-click photo and video capture, integrated lumi LED light and even red-eye reduction. With a hot swappable microSD card with up to 4GB of optional memory, you can quickly access files. Equipped with an integrated music player, the MOTO Z8 allows you to create playlists, add creativity to your music with on-screen visualizations and easily skip to the next groove with shuffle capability. The MOTO phone's redesigned user interface allows simple one-click access to all this and more.

Expand Your Horizons
Enabling you to expand your music experience wirelessly, the MOTO lets you set your music collection free ... from wires. The MOTO Z8 effortlessly syncs with your compatible Bluetooth enabled music center wirelessly. Using compatible stereo Bluetooth accessorie you can enjoy your favorite tunes wirelessly without ever missing a call - at home, on the move, on the go!1

SUMMARY OF FEATURES:

* Unique ergonomic slider design
* Up to approximately five hours 3G talk time, up to approximately 16 days standby time3
* 3.6Mbps HSDPA providing mobile broadband1
* 2 megapixel camera with 8x zoom and lumi LED light, video record and playback capabilities
* Approximately 90 MB free internal user memory4, optional expandable to 4GB with microSD
* Messaging: SMS, EMS, MMS 1.21
* Integrated media player
* Redesigned user interface with one-click access to phone functions
* A2DP AVRCP Bluetooth stereo profiles1

The MOTO Z8 is expected to be available in the first half of 2007. For more information on pricing and product availability in your region, please check with your local Motorola representative.

Certain mobile phone features may not be activated by your service provider, and/or their network settings may limit the feature's functionality. Contact your service provider for details. All features, functionality and other product specifications are subject to change without notice or obligation.

1 This device supports Bluetooth A2DP-Source, AVCTP, AVDTP, AVRCP-Target, BIP-ImagePush, BPP-SenderDev, DUN-GW, FT-Server, GAP, GAVDP, Headset-AG, HFP (1.5) AG, OPP-Client, OPP-Server profiles. In order for Bluetooth devices to communicate with one another, they must utilize the same Bluetooth profile. To determine the profiles supported by other Motorola devices, visit www.hellomoto.com/bluetooth. For other devices, contact their respective manufacturer.

Certain Bluetooth features including those listed may not be supported by all compatible Bluetooth-enabled devices, and/or the functionality of such features may be limited in certain devices, or by certain wireless carriers. Contact your wireless carrier about feature availability and functionality.

2 Network and/or SIM card dependent feature, not available in all areas. Airtime, data charges, and/or additional charges may apply.

3 All talk and standby times are quoted in Digital Mode, and are approximate. Battery performance depends on network configuration, signal strength, operating temperature, features selected, and voice, data and other application usage patterns. Talk times and standby times will be lower when in Analog Mode.

4 Available user memory varies due to the configuration of the phone, which varies by service provider.

MOTOROLA and the Stylized M Logo are registered in the US Patent & Trademark Office. The Bluetooth trademarks are owned by their proprietor and used by Motorola, Inc. under license. All other product or service names are the property of their respective owners. © Motorola, Inc. 2007. All rights reserved.

MOTO Z8
Band: GSM/GPRS/EDGE Class 10
Mode: Dual mode UMTS 2100, HSDPA 3.6Mbs
Dimensions 109mm x 50mm x 15mm
Size 77 cc
Weight 112 grams
Battery Li-Ion 1030 mAh with instantON
Talk Time3: up to approximately 5 hours 3G talk time
Standby Time3: up to approximately 16 days
Video Playback: up to approximately 5 hours (MPEG4, 30fps)
Music Playback: up to approximately 12 hours (MP3 at 128kbps)
Display
User Interface 2.2" QVGA 16 million color TFT
Symbian 9.2, UIQ 3.1, TI 2420 multimedia processor
Memory Approximately 90 MB free internal use memory4
Hot-swappable microSD memory slot expandable up to 4GB optional memory
Features

* 2MP camera with 8x zoom and flash with several modes and dedicated camera shoot key
* VGA camera for two-way video calling1
* Multimedia: uses 3.6Mbps HSDPA , streaming 3GPP, H.263, H.264 @30fps, MPEG4 AMR-NB
* Music player and playlists support MP3, AAC/AAC+/AAC+E, AMR-NB
* Messaging: SMS, EMS, MMS 1.21
* Email: SMTP, POP3, IMAP4, SSL/TLS1
* Java: J2ME MIDP 2.0, CLDC 1.1, OTA download of applications and games1
* Stereo Bluetooth wireless technology enables you to lose the wires with a compatible Bluetooth enabled headset (see Motorola S9)2

Connectivity OMA DM 1.2, CP 1.1 and DS with SyncML
Mini-USB/EMU, Full rate US 2.0; PC sync application
Bluetooth wireless technology: Class 2 EDR; A2DP with AVRCP profiles2
FOTA
The MOTO Z8 is expected to be available in the first half of 2007. For more information regarding pricing and product availability in your region, please check with your local Motorola representative.
Certain mobile phone features are dependent on the capabilities and settings of your service provider's network. Additionally, certain features may not be activated by your service provider, and/or their network settings may limit the feature's functionality. Always contact your service provider about feature availability and functionality. All features, functionality and other product specifications are based upon the latest available information and are believed to be accurate; however such product specifications are subject to change without notice or obligation.

1 Network and/or SIM card dependent feature, not available in all areas. Airtime, data charges, and/or additional charges may apply.

2 This device supports Bluetooth BIP-ImagePush, BPP-SenderDev, DUN-GW, FT-Server, GAP, GAVDP, Headset-AG, HFP (1.5) AG, OPP-Client, OPP-Server profiles. In order for Bluetooth devices to communicate with one another, they must utilize the same Bluetooth profile. To determine the profiles supported by other Motorola devices, visit www.hellomoto.com/bluetooth. For other devices, contact their respective manufacturer.
Certain Bluetooth features including those listed may not be supported by all compatible Bluetooth-enabled devices, and/or the functionality of such features may be limited in certain devices, or by certain wireless carriers. Contact your wireless carrier about feature availability and functionality.
3 All talk and standby times are quoted in Digital Mode, and are approximate. Battery performance depends on network configuration, signal strength, operating temperature, features selected, and voice, data and other application usage patterns.
4 Available user memory varies due to the configuration of the phone, which varies by service provider.

MOTOROLA and the Stylized M Logo are registered in the US Patent & Trademark Office. The Bluetooth trademarks are owned by their proprietor and used by Motorola, Inc. under license. Java and all other Java-based marks are trademarks or registered trademarks of Sun Microsystems, Inc. in the U.S. and other countries. All other product or service names are the property of their respective owners. © Motorola, Inc. 2007. All rights reserved.

Dealzmodo: $20 Off Slinglink Turbo

Jason Chen — Sat, 28 Apr 2007 17:30:40 EDT

If you're at all interested in getting a SlingLink Turbo to compliment your Slingbox, there's a $20 coupon for Woot members. Just hit up this page, get the code, and follow the link to buy it. If you're not familiar with the SlingLink, it's essentially powerline networking in a Sling-like box.

Incidentally, I used a Slingbox to keep up with all the TV shows while I was away on vacation. The crappy Comcast DVR recorded the shows and I could watch them whenever there was any downtime. Really neat. – Jason Chen

Deal Page [Sling]

DIY Wireless Bluetooth Banana Phone Headset

Travis Hudson — Fri, 06 Apr 2007 19:40:11 EDT

How many more days will this godforsaken song be stuck in my head because of another actual banana phone? It is driving me insane! Today, Instructables has a tutorial in which you, the banana phone junkie, can build your very own Bluetooth banana phone headset. The project consists of embedding an already owned Bluetooth headset inside a fake banana. Really it should be a fairly easy project to accomplish that could provide laughs for ages (or a day until it gets old). –Travis Hudson

Bluetooth Banana Phone Wireless Handset [Instructables]

Ring Ring Ring Ring, LG SV80 Banana Phone

Travis Hudson — Thu, 05 Apr 2007 18:45:44 EDT

I like the shape of this phone, the LG SV80, and how it contours to the face. I initially would avoid making the banana comment until I see the LG press picture that has a child actually comparing the phone to a banana. I guess LG wants to milk the age-old banana phone song for all it is worth.

For the actual phone—it is a slider with 142MB of memory, MP3 player and a 1.3-megapixel camera. No word on pricing or availability or any other fruit phones coming from LG in the future. How about a pear phone? –Travis Hudson

LG SV80 looks yummy [uberphones]

Banana Phone!

Travis Hudson — Wed, 02 Aug 2006 15:17:49 EDT

Ring ring ring ring ring ring ring
Banana phone
Ring ring ring ring ring ring ring
Banana phone

I've got this feeling
so appealing
for us to get together and sing - SING!

Ring ring ring ring ring ring ring
Banana phone
Ding dong ding dong ding dong ding
Donana phone

It grows in bunches
I've got my hunches
Its the best
beats the rest
cellular modular
interactivodular

Ring ring ring ring ring ring ring
Banana phone
Ping pong ping pong ping pong ping
Ponana phone

Its no baloney
It aint a phony
My cellular
Bananular phone

Don't need quarters
don't need dimes
to call a friend of mine
dont need computer or tv
to have a real good time
I'll call for pizza
I'll call my cat
I'll call the whitehouse, have a chat
I'll place a call around the world
Operator get me beijing jing jing jing

Ring ring ring ring ring ring ring
Banana phone
Ying yang ying yang ying yang ying
Yanana phone
It's a real live mama and papa phone
a brother and sister and a dogaphone
a grandpa phone and a grandma phone too - oh yeah
my cellular bananular phone

Banana phone
ring... ring... ring...
Its a phone with appeal (a peel)

Banana phone
ring... ring... ring...
Now you can have your phone and eat it too

Banana phone
ring... ring... ring...
This song drives me .... bananas

Banana phone
ring... ring... ring...

Bo ba do ba do do doob – Travis Hudson

Product Page [Via Gearlog]