Mom Central Technology

Next Generation Video Connections

Stacy DeBroff — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 09:58:16 PST

Cookies have the ability to bring people together and generate a smile – regardless of the situation. Simply talking and laughing around the dessert table often creates memories for years to come. But as kids grow up and move away, sometimes distance makes family gatherings few and far between. While those tasty treats may not solve the long-distance dilemma, there now exists a cookie with a technology flavor that delivers family and friends directly into your living room – without the added transportation costs.

The Biscotti makes free high-definition video calls to TVs, computers, iPhone, iPad, and Android devices, offering consumers a real-life television experience that no longer requires the “laptop-pass” around the room. Thanks to the high-definition camera and microphone that captures the entire setting, all users can join in simultaneously.

How it Works: The small, biscotti-sized device rests on top of any HD television set providing a lifetime of video conferencing for the one-time price of $199. Many competitors charge additional monthly rates on top of the initial expense, making the Biscotti one of the most affordable. Controlled by a small remote, this device needs only a Wi-Fi network and HDTV – no computer or phone line required.

Biscotti and Gchat: The Biscotti can also connect with both other Biscotti devices and also Gmail-equipped devices. This allows families to connect with others on the go without having to sit in front of the television screen. Simply create a Gmail account, access the chat function of any mobile gadget, and let the Biscotti make the connection.

While we loved the concept and the Biscotti’s overall design, we did face some challenges. We enjoyed good results with Biscotti-to-Biscotti communication, but had difficulty getting it to work with other non-Biscotti devices. Whether this challenge resulted from incompatibility with our devices or from other related issues with our in-home technology, we wished we could have sampled the full extent of the Biscotti’s capabilities.

Disclosure: Mom Central received a sample of the Biscotti to facilitate this review.

LoJack for Laptops: Peace of Mind While On-the Go

Stacy DeBroff — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 17:37:39 PST

Even the thought of losing a laptop evokes pure terror in anyone who’s ever carried one, particularly when you stop to think of its contents – photo libraries, work documents, vacation logistics, kids’ school work, volunteer assignments, copies of tax returns, banking records, passwords, and much, much more.

Now, LoJack offers a solution – LoJack for Laptops, which offers access to several key features: locate, lock, delete, and recover. The locate screen allows you to find your laptop’s most recent location and track movement history on an online map. If you lost your laptop during travel, this may help find its current location and retrieve it.

The lock command lets you freeze your missing laptop and display on-screen instructions to return it to you. It protects sensitive information and blocks thieves from using the computer. Another option, the delete tab, remotely erases selected files on your laptop. With one click, no one can view personal information stored on the device.

Recovery may be possible with the help of the LoJack forensic team. They work with law enforcement to return the computer and catch the thief if possible. Using the installed LoJack software, the chance of recovering the missing laptop becomes higher.

For frequent travelers, college students, busy Moms, or anyone concerned about laptop contents, this system can offer peace of mind – even if the unthinkable happens.

One lucky Mom Central reader will win a copy of LoJack software (Windows compatible version). To enter, leave a comment below by Tuesday, February 7. The winner will be selected at random and notified by email.

Disclosure: Mom Central received copies of LoJack software to facilitate this review and giveaway.

Warding off the “Million Dollar Raindrop”

Stacy DeBroff — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 13:18:00 PST

While each year reveals dramatic leaps forward in innovation, one of the largest tech enemies results from something quite basic – water. Whether rain, spilled beverages, or kitchen sinks cause the crisis, mixing water with technology never seems to end well. Take it from Moms whose children have dropped their phones in the bathtubs, teens whose water bottles spill into the laptop section of their backpacks, or the vacationers who drop their phones onto the beach and into the water – combining the two ingredients creates a recipe for disaster.

From hefty cases to sticky shields, accessory companies had yet to find a foolproof solution to this universal problem. When HzO took a look at the issue, it seemed clear that everyone else had been taking the wrong approach. Waterproofing such expensive devices did not require outward alterations, but rather to fix this problem, designers needed to look inward.

Protecting gadgets from the inside out makes up the future of smartphones, iPads, iPods, and everything in between. HzO’s WaterBlock technology uses a vacuum deposition process during the manufacturing stage that safeguards gadgets from water damage with a thin nano-coating that provides a near invisible layer of protection.

The potential to solve a problem that continues to cost users hundreds of dollars every year marks a large step forward in the tech industry. From CES 2012 and the minds of innovators willing to look at a common problem from a new perspective, HzO water protection hopes to line the interior of the most popular gadgets by mid summer – just in time for beach season!

Monitor Kids’ Online Activity with Net Nanny

Stacy DeBroff — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 09:32:07 PST

The Internet offers families nearly limitless resources, but we Moms also must beware the potential for inappropriate content. Kids and teens spend a considerable amount of time on the computer for school -- and socializing! – and without boundaries, can explore the Internet more than we’d like.

Now, parental-control software, Net Nanny, offers a solution to help monitor and block computer activity in the home. It prevents adult sites or images and masks profanity with $%@# symbols to address some of the most prominent Internet risks.

Net Nanny allows parents to easily adjust the filter settings for up to 35 categories (for example, alcohol, gambling, intimate apparel, weapons, social networks, and more) so you have full control over the sites your children can access. The software also regulates chat rooms and online games, and sends alerts to parents via instant messaging to let them know about questionable conversations. Any time contact information, location, or personal details appear, parents will be notified to prevent the risk of online predators.

And, if your kids use social media sites, you can keep up with their activity without having your own profile. Periodically viewing your child’s profile, photos, and messages will let you keep tabs on how much they share with “friends.” In addition, Net Nanny allows parents to set boundaries restricting Internet access after bedtime or limit daily online time.

Finally, Net Nanny Mobile now allows parents to monitor and block activity on iPhone and Android phones, iPads, and iPod Touch. Regardless of your kids’ Internet activity, Net Nanny can provide families that extra peace of mind.

Disclosure: Mom Central received a sample of Net Nanny Software to facilitate this review.

GreenSmart MacBook Sleeve

Stacy DeBroff — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 09:19:13 PST

As our technology becomes even more lightweight and portable, we increasingly want to bring our devices everywhere – from home to work (and back again) and even on vacation. Throughout all this back-and-forth, the GreenSmart MacBook sleeve fits my computer perfectly and protects it from damage. Made from toxin-free Neogreene material, this cover represents the newest way to live eco-friendly while accessorizing your most important technology.

The stylish cover includes a soft, non-scratch interior made from 100% recycled plastic bottles to cushion the laptop. It also uses a ventilated fabric to allow the laptop to cool down and prevent overheating during travel. In addition, the wrap-around zipper makes your laptop accessible from any angle by opening horizontally or vertically according to preference. The vertical format comes in handy when storing the laptop in a backpack because you can easily remove it from the top. The zipper also provides a way to plug the battery in when charging.

And, the waterproof material protects laptops from rain or spills – a real fear when transporting a laptop to work, meetings, or while traveling. With the GreenSmart MacBook Sleeve, traveling with a laptop in tow just got a little easier – and a little greener.

Disclosure: Mom Central received a GreenSmart Sleeve to facilitate this review.

EyeAsteroids: You have to See it to Believe it

Stacy DeBroff — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 09:16:05 PST

Imagine controlling the videogames in an arcade with your eyes. With a mere glimpse to the right and a stare to the left, flying asteroids would explode – making you victorious in the gaming universe. Seem too advanced for today’s world?

Think again.

Tobii unveiled the world’s first eye-controlled arcade game, EyeAsteroids, at the 2012 Consumer Electronics Show earlier this month in Las Vegas. Known as Gaze Interaction, this technology transforms your eyes into the controllers and your glance into the skill set.

When testing this innovative game of the future, I first stared into the screen and followed the flashing light that allowed the system to map my retina. After this initial step, each time I approached the screen the system immediately recognized my player identity through the uniqueness of my eyes.

The game progresses through levels that increase in difficulty, each time sending your eyes after asteroids to blow them into oblivion. Tobii EyeAsteroids provides an entirely new gaming experience to excite gamers of all ages with tomorrow’s technology.

Recharge On-the-Go with the Powerbag

Stacy DeBroff — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 09:12:07 PST

If you travel frequently or often use handheld devices – this backpack may be for you. With a built-in battery system, the Powerbag allows you to charge up to four Smart Phones, tablets, or iPods while on the go. The lightweight, universal charging pack serves as a compatible power source for any device that uses a USB plug-in.

While charging, devices may be stored safely in any of the padded pockets designed for transport. The Powerbag includes special pockets for your laptop, tablet, handheld devices and more. It also has a “Checkpoint Friendly” Flyflat design that eliminates the need to remove your laptop at security by laying flat through screening.

No need to worry about your electronics dying during a trip, the rechargeable 6000mAh battery in the Powerbag does it all. Equipped with Apple, Micro-USB, and Mini-USB connectors and a USB port, the power system supports nearly every handheld device.

The logo button on the outside of the bag turns the battery on and off when needed. To test the power, the button displays an LED light indicator with the estimated amount left. Re-charging the battery at the end of the day just requires a simple wall plug-in using the water-resistant cord provided. The next day, you can resume your trip – with all your tech devices charged and ready to go.

In addition to charging abilities, the backpack also easily accommodates enough clothing for a weekend and sports pockets for water bottles and sunglasses. Featuring padded straps for comfort, the Powerbag comes in a variety of styles and colors and can be found at many retailers including Amazon, Kohl’s, and Best Buy, as well as on the Powerbag website.

Disclosure: Mom Central received a sample of the Powerbag to facilitate this review.

Just in Time Solutions from Just Mobile

Stacy DeBroff — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 07:36:28 PST

Founded in 2005, Just Mobile designs and creates stylish aluminum accessories for iPhones, iPads, laptops, and more. Most products can be purchased through Amazon or stores like Office Depot and Think Geek.

Meet one accessory by Just Mobile that I especially like: the Highway Pro. This cigarette lighter attachment provides two USB ports so you can charge two devices in your car simultaneously. The sleek aluminum device protects against surges while supplying power to your iPod, iPhone, or iPad. It also includes an Apple-certified charging cable so you never need to go looking for your chargers. The Highway Pro provides the perfect solution for those constantly on the go.

Another favorite accessory, the Cooling Bar, makes using a laptop more comfortable and cool. The solid aluminum device raises the laptop to an easier typing level and improves air circulation. If your laptop feels warm after a long stretch of work, this bar will allow the computer to remain cool and quiet. The rubber base and grips also ensure the laptop will stay in place and prevent scratches on your work surface. This award-winning product offers a simple yet practical way to enhance the use of your laptop.

Check out the Just Mobile website for more stands, cases, and tools for the rest of your mobile devices.

Disclosure: Mom Central received samples of Just Mobile accessories to facilitate this review.

3M Solutions for Privacy and Protection

Stacy DeBroff — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 07:07:34 PST

The accessory trend continued in full force as companies unveiled the latest and greatest tech sidekicks at the 2012 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. The 3M Privacy Screen Protector proved a standout thanks to its ability to preserve privacy while on the go, as well as protect iPhone screens from dirt, dust, and scratches.

In addition, the screen cover reduces glare and makes cleaning the surface a breeze. Looking at the phone from the side, the screen appears completely black until it moves directly beneath your line of vision. This prevents onlookers from glancing at your smartphone from across the table, around the corner or over your shoulder on a train, airplane, or anywhere else your busy life may take you.

As we take more personal tasks mobile – ranging from banking to online shopping to healthcare – we carry a great deal of personal information and passwords on our smartphones. This privacy shield eliminates the constant worry that others may see more information than we’d like – without sacrificing clarity for users. And, rotating the screen allows phone owners to share photos and videos with friends and family without removing the screen. Say goodbye to the days of your seatmate easily reading every text message that pops up, and say hello to 3M’s innovative privacy solution.

Disclosure: Mom Central received a 3M Privacy Screen Protector to facilitate this review.

NewerTechnology Breaks into the New Year

Stacy DeBroff — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 13:25:22 PST

Technology reigns in 2012. With smartphones and tablets, the world of data and communications rest in our hands. But now that these latest and greatest gadgets have become part of so many lives, the trend moves from the actual products to how to outfit and accessorize them.

NewerTechnology sees this trend and offers consumers a product both innovative and practical. The Power2U Wall Outlet takes the average dual socket wall outlet and brings it into the 21^st century through the addition of two USB ports for powering or fully charging Apple devices and other USB mobile gadgets.

The outlet installation requires nothing more than an average DIY project while boasting energy-efficient features. The Smart Power design of the outlet outputs only the charging power required by each device attached. In addition, the spring-loaded Safety Shutters turn the power off to the USB port when the charging cord is removed from the outlet. These shutters also prevent small fingers from sliding into the small spaces—a wonderful feature for families who possess outlet covers for AC openings, but not USB ports.

Bring your home into the technology age this New Year with the Power2U Wall Outlet. Stop searching for that missing iPhone charger, grab an extra USB cord, and soak up the convenience.

Disclosure: Mom Central received sample of the Power2U Wall Outlet to facilitate this review.