Engadget http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[R2-D2 Dark Roast Edition makes your coffee astromech-style, puts brew into 'homebrew' (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/07/r2-d2-dark-roast-edition-coffee-maker/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/07/r2-d2-dark-roast-edition-coffee-maker/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/07/r2-d2-dark-roast-edition-coffee-maker/#comments Image

Has there been a gaping R2-D2-shaped hole in your gadget life ever since the Motorola Droid 2 R2-D2 Edition bowed out? The good crew at Instructables knows your plight and has designed the R2-D2 Dark Roast Edition to give your astromech desires an almost literal jolt of energy. The team's do-it-yourself project modifies a BUNN industrial coffee maker -- no slow-drip home unit here -- with a float valve and a generous mix of aluminum, brass, copper and steel welded on top. If you're particularly ambitious, you can even make R2 bleep his delight when you've got a fresh pot lined up. Constructing a Dark Roast Edition requires a good amount of electrical and metalworking savvy, but it might be worth your time while you wait for C-3PO to reach stores.

Continue reading R2-D2 Dark Roast Edition makes your coffee astromech-style, puts brew into 'homebrew' (video)

R2-D2 Dark Roast Edition makes your coffee astromech-style, puts brew into 'homebrew' (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 07 May 2012 19:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>astromechbunnc 3poc-3poC3pocoffeecoffee makercoffee makerscoffee potCoffeeMakerCoffeeMakersCoffeePotdarkdiydo it yourselfDoItYourselfdroiddroid 2 r2 d2droid 2 r2 d2 editiondroid 2 r2-d2droid 2 r2-d2 editiondroid r2-d2 editionDroid2R2-d2Droid2R2-d2EditionDroid2R2D2Droid2R2D2EditionDroidR2-d2EditionhomebrewmetalworkMotorolamotorola droid 2 r2d2motorola droid r2 d2 editionMotorolaDroid2R2d2MotorolaDroidR2D2Editionprojectr2 d2R2-D2R2D2roastroastingStar WarsStarWarsvideoMon, 07 May 2012 19:25:00 EST<![CDATA[The droid nobody was looking for: an R2-D2 MP4 player]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/09/the-droid-nobody-was-looking-for-an-r2-d2-mp4-player/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/09/the-droid-nobody-was-looking-for-an-r2-d2-mp4-player/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/09/the-droid-nobody-was-looking-for-an-r2-d2-mp4-player/#comments We all know the story of how Artoo braved the sands of Tatooine to deliver Princess Leia's message to old Ben, but we never guessed that he encoded it as an MP4. Leave it to Toys 'R' Us to set the story straight: R2-D2 was a music player, C-3P0 was an overcomplicated set of earbuds, and MPEG-4 is apparently a galactic standard music format. Who knew? According to the droid's product page, it can hold up to 500 songs on 2GB of internal storage. There's also a questionable image (we're looking at you, Empire Photoshop brigade) promising video playback, photo storage, extras, settings and some sort of recording feature. We aren't sure if this choppy image can be trusted, but we're thinking about sending out some Bothan spies to investigate.

The droid nobody was looking for: an R2-D2 MP4 player originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 09 Nov 2011 03:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>c-3p0crapgadgetmedia playerMediaPlayermp4music playerMusicPlayerphotoshopr2 d2r2-d2R2D2star warsstarwarsWed, 09 Nov 2011 03:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Refresh Roundup: week of September 5, 2011]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/11/refresh-roundup-week-of-september-5-2011/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/11/refresh-roundup-week-of-september-5-2011/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/11/refresh-roundup-week-of-september-5-2011/#comments Your smartphone and / or tablet is just begging to get updated. From time to time, these mobile devices are blessed with maintenance refreshes, bug fixes, custom ROMs and anything in between, and so many of them are floating around that it's easy for a sizable chunk to get lost in the mix. To make sure they don't escape without notice, we've gathered every possible update, hack, and other miscellaneous tomfoolery from the last week and crammed them into one convenient roundup. If you find something available for your device, please give us a shout at tips at engadget dawt com and let us know. Enjoy!

Official Android updates
  • Verizon was spitting out new refreshes left and right this week, as we saw Gingerbread begin to roll out as OTA downloads on the Motorola Droid 3, HTC Droid Incredible, and -- get this -- even the Motorola Droid 2 R2-D2 edition. [Thanks to everyone who sent this in]
  • Interestingly enough, Android 2.3 for the Droid 2 Global was already getting pushed out, but was pulled just a couple days later after a Microsoft Exchange encryption issue was discovered. We've been told the updates will resume "soon." [via Droid-Life]
  • Finally, Verizon also pushed out one other software upgrade -- this time on its 4510L LTE MiFi. (Thanks, Matt)
  • HTC continues to expand its bootloader unlock tool to more phones, region by region. This week the company enabled support for the EVO 3D in Canada and Europe. [via Phandroid]
Unofficial Android updates / custom ROMs / misc hackery
  • The Motorola Droid 3 and Droid X both now have access to an SBF -- System Boot File -- to act as a safeguard for anyone who manages to brick their phones. [via Droid-Life (1) and (2)]
  • Recently we heard about the Honeycomb ROM for the HTC Flyer getting leaked by MoDaCo, but no screenshots were available at the time. This week, however, someone successfully grabbed a few images to share with the world (shown in the above image). The ROM appears to run on Android 3.2 with HTC Sense 1.1 for tablets as the featured UI. [via AndroidBugle -- thanks, Dennis]
  • Let's talk a little more about leaked Sense ROMs. We've already seen Sense 3.5 working on the Desire HD, and now we have another device to add to the list: the EVO 4G. [via XDA]
  • The first kernel for unlocked bootloaders on the Sony Ericsson Xperia X10 is now waiting for your download, so head over to the link for instructions. [via XDA]
  • If you've been waiting and hoping for CyanogenMod 7 on your HTC Sensation or EVO 3D so you can shed the Sense UI, that time may be very close at hand. According to a member of the CyanogenMod team, an early alpha build for both devices may be available by the end of this weekend, so keep an eye out. [via Phandroid]
Other platforms
  • Two new unofficial ROMs -- one for Windows Phone Mango and another for NoDo --are now available for the Samsung Omnia 7. The Mango ROM improves the device's radio, camera drivers and motion sensors, in addition to a few other enhancements. [via WPCentral]
Refreshes already covered this week

Refresh Roundup: week of September 5, 2011 originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 11 Sep 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3d4510l4gandroid 2.3android 3.2android gingerbreadAndroid2.3Android3.2AndroidGingerbreadbootloadercustom romCustomRomcyanogenmodcyanogenmod 7Cyanogenmod7droiddroid 2droid 3Droid2Droid3evo 3devo 4gEvo3dEvo4gfirmwarefirmware updateFirmwareUpdategingerbreadhoneycombhtchtc evo 3dhtc evo 4ghtc evo view 4ghtc flyerhtc sensationhtc sensation 4ghtc senseHtcEvo3dHtcEvo4gHtcEvoView4gHtcFlyerHtcSensationHtcSensation4gHtcSenseltelte hotspotlte mifiLteHotspotLteMifimango romMangoRommobile hotspotMobileHotspotmobilepostminimotorolamotorola droid 2motorola droid 2 globalmotorola droid 2 r2d2motorola droid 3MotorolaDroid2MotorolaDroid2GlobalMotorolaDroid2R2d2MotorolaDroid3nodonodo romNodoRomr2-d2r2d2refreshrefresh roundupRefreshRoundupromrounduprrsamsungsbfscreenshotssensationsensesense 1.1sense uiSense1.1SenseUisoftwaresoftware updateSoftwareUpdatesony ericssonsony ericsson xperia x10SonyEricssonSonyEricssonXperiaX10unlockedunlocked bootloaderUnlockedBootloaderupdateverizonverizon wirelessVerizonWirelessvzwwindows phonewindows phone mangowindows phone nodoWindowsPhoneWindowsPhoneMangoWindowsPhoneNodowp7wp7.5x10xperiaxperia x10XperiaX10Sun, 11 Sep 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Inhabitat's Week in Green: hybrid hydrogen hovercraft, amphibious ice cream, and the transparent solar touchscreen laptop of our dreams]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/05/inhabitats-week-in-green-hybrid-hydrogen-hovercraft-amphibiou/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/05/inhabitats-week-in-green-hybrid-hydrogen-hovercraft-amphibiou/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/05/inhabitats-week-in-green-hybrid-hydrogen-hovercraft-amphibiou/#commentsEach week our friends at Inhabitat recap the week's most interesting green developments and clean tech news for us -- it's the Week in Green.


Solar energy supercharged our power grid and gadgets this week as Inhabitat showcased a hot solar laptop set within a transparent case that allows sunlight to shine straight through it. We also saw a team of Japanese engineers' shoot for the moon with plans for a lunar photovoltaic plant, while back on earth Seoul officially launched the world's first solar-powered floating island. Scientists also used sunlight to create the perfect cup of joe with the Helios 4 solar coffee roaster, and now that the weather is finally heating up we couldn't help but share this sexy solar bikini -- which just hit the market!

In other news, green transportation set sail this week as Volkswagen unveiled a hybrid hydrogen-electric hovercraft and the world's first amphibious ice cream truck cast anchor in the Thames. Meanwhile, a new mini electric Humvee was spotted just a few streets away in London, students at the University of Adelaide unveiled a crazy electric di-wheel car, and a group of scientists unveiled plans to harvest Helium-3 from Uranus to help propel interstellar travel. Enerkam also took a big step towards transforming municipal waste into fuel by securing a $60 million investment, and we took you for a ride on 14 of the world's most amazing subways.

Last but not least, this week we officially unveiled 40 stunning finalists in our Bright Ideas Lighting Design Competition - from a gorgeous geometric chandelier made from cut and folded Tetra Paks to a living LED light that doubles as a terrarium and a brilliant lamp made from a broken blender. We were also shocked to hear the World Health Organization declare that cell phones may cause cancer, so we rounded up 5 ways to protect yourself from cellphone radiation. Finally, we showcased a steampunk R2-D2 made from recycled materials, and if you're stepping up your exercise routine to hit the beach this summer you won't want to miss the S770 Pinnacle Trainer -- an energy-generating exercise machine that produces watts while you work out!

Inhabitat's Week in Green: hybrid hydrogen hovercraft, amphibious ice cream, and the transparent solar touchscreen laptop of our dreams originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 05 Jun 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EnerkamHelios 4Helios4HeliumHumveeInhabitatinhabitats week in greenInhabitatsWeekInGreenR2-D2R2D2steampunkweek in greenWeekInGreenSun, 05 Jun 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Maker Faire 2011, in pictures: Arduinos, Androids, and angry robots (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/22/maker-faire-2011-in-pictures-arduinos-androids-and-angry-rob/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/22/maker-faire-2011-in-pictures-arduinos-androids-and-angry-rob/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/22/maker-faire-2011-in-pictures-arduinos-androids-and-angry-rob/#comments The rapture has come and gone, but the Maker Faire powers on. Despite warnings of a May 21st doomsday, folks came out in droves for the annual celebration of all things DIY, and we were there to bring you the best in homespun inventions. This year's Maker Faire was light on robots and big on corporate sponsorship. Among the giants supporting the little guys were Google, ASUS, and HP, but El Goog's presence extended beyond its dedicated tents. The new Android ADK was big with at-home tinkerers this year, spawning a number of little robots and at least one DIY alternative.

Perhaps no other trend proved more pervasive than 3D printing, however -- every time we turned around there was another MakerBot or RapMan pumping out everything from statuettes of attendees to cutesy salt shakers. There were robotic building blocks, a Heineken-themed R2-D2, DIY drones, custom keyboards, and a ton of repurposed gadgets, but it was an arena of destructo-bots, tucked away in the farthest corner of the San Mateo County Event Center, that really blew us away. We came away sunburned and bedraggled, but lucky for you, we did all the dirty work so you don't have to. To see what made this year's Maker Faire, hop on past the break for a video of our favorite DIY finds.

Gallery: Maker Faire 2011


Myriam Joire contributed to this report.

Continue reading Maker Faire 2011, in pictures: Arduinos, Androids, and angry robots (video)

Maker Faire 2011, in pictures: Arduinos, Androids, and angry robots (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 22 May 2011 17:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20113D3D printer3dPrinterAndroidAndroid ADKAndroidAdkArduinoDIYDIY DronesDiyDronesDroneDroneselectric vehicleElectricVehicleEVFairegalleryinventioninventionsLEGOLEGOSMakeMake MagazineMakeMagazineMakerMaker FaireMaker Faire 2011MakerFaireMakerFaire2011R2D2robotroboticsrobotsspideStar WarsStarWarstourvideovideosSun, 22 May 2011 17:52:00 EST<![CDATA[Droid 2 R2-D2 edition launch kit makes emergency landing]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/24/droid-2-r2-d2-edition-launch-kit-makes-emergency-landing/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/24/droid-2-r2-d2-edition-launch-kit-makes-emergency-landing/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/24/droid-2-r2-d2-edition-launch-kit-makes-emergency-landing/#comments It's getting awful close now, eh? Merely hours after hearing that Droid 2 R2-D2 edition launch kits were splashing down in select Verizon Wireless locations, in flies a foursome of images proving as much. Of course, we still can't promise you that these fellows will be available for the taking a moment before the 30th of September, but if you know someone at Big Red, at least there's a chance he / she may be able to get you a sneak peek starting now. Or, you know, you could just peek the gallery below.

[Thanks, Anonymous]

Gallery: Droid 2 R2-D2 edition launch kit

Droid 2 R2-D2 edition launch kit makes emergency landing originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 24 Sep 2010 19:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>droiddroid 2Droid2dummydummy unitDummyUnitmotorolamotorola droidMotorolaDroidr2r2 d2r2 d2 editionr2-d2r2-d2 editionR2-d2EditionR2D2R2D2Editionverizonverizon wirelessVerizonWirelessvzvzwFri, 24 Sep 2010 19:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Droid 2 R2-D2 edition dummy units force-arriving at Verizon retail?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/23/droid-2-r2-d2-edition-dummy-units-force-arriving-at-verizon-reta/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/23/droid-2-r2-d2-edition-dummy-units-force-arriving-at-verizon-reta/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/23/droid-2-r2-d2-edition-dummy-units-force-arriving-at-verizon-reta/#comments The little astromech smartphone that could (pilfer your wallet) is now touching down in at least one Verizon Wireless store, according to spy shots via Boy Genius Report. The Motorola Droid 2 R2-D2 edition launch kit contains just a dummy unit, not an extremely well-put together little Droid, so you won't find any lightspeed animation contained within. Still, if it's the faceplate you want see up close and personal, looks like you might get a chance at just that a tinge earlier than September 30th.

Droid 2 R2-D2 edition dummy units force-arriving at Verizon retail? originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 23 Sep 2010 22:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>droiddroid 2Droid2dummydummy unitDummyUnitmotorolamotorola droidMotorolaDroidr2r2 d2r2 d2 editionr2-d2r2-d2 editionR2-d2EditionR2D2R2D2Editionverizonverizon wirelessVerizonWirelessvzvzwThu, 23 Sep 2010 22:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Droid 2 R2-D2 boot animation, live wallpapers leak out at light speed]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/09/droid-2-r2-d2-boot-animation-live-wallpapers-leak-out-at-light/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/09/droid-2-r2-d2-boot-animation-live-wallpapers-leak-out-at-light/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/09/droid-2-r2-d2-boot-animation-live-wallpapers-leak-out-at-light/#comments
Not willing to wait for the genuine R2-D2 edition Droid 2 later this month? Then it looks like you can now get the next best thing -- the Star Wars-themed boot animation and live wallpapers from the phone have already been dug out from the recently leaked ROM and made available for download. Those include the Millennium Falcon flying through an asteroid field, the always exciting jump to lightspeed, an interactive R2-D2, and everyone's favorite: the space slug. Head on past the break for a pair of videos, and hit up the links below to check out the rest (and download them).

Continue reading Droid 2 R2-D2 boot animation, live wallpapers leak out at light speed

Droid 2 R2-D2 boot animation, live wallpapers leak out at light speed originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 09 Sep 2010 03:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boot animationBootAnimationdroiddroid 2droid 2 r2-d2Droid2Droid2R2-d2leaklive wallpaperLiveWallpapermotorolar2-d2r2d2star warsStarWarsvideowallpaperThu, 09 Sep 2010 03:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Droid R2-D2 gets docked -- not in a X-Wing]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/03/droid-r2-d2-gets-docked-not-in-a-x-wing/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/03/droid-r2-d2-gets-docked-not-in-a-x-wing/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/03/droid-r2-d2-gets-docked-not-in-a-x-wing/#comments Verizon's teaser site for the Droid 2 R2-D2 edition has been teasing a series of locked spokes, accessible by all as soon as anyone in the community solves the "puzzle." We don't know exactly what the magic code was, but regardless, thanks to David H. yesterday, we've got a new gallery of devices pics and -- oh, lookie -- a special edition Droid R2-D2 dock. We don't see room for a hyperdrive anywhere, nor wings, proton torpedos, or a cockpit for future Jedi to blast orbital space stations. So, let's just call it a vacation home for astromechs needing a respite.

Update: As a number of you have pointed out, it's "proton" torpedo in Star Wars canon, and "Jedi" is already plural. We're left with two options here: total retcon the scope of which would put midi-chlorians to further shame, or just fixing the copy. We'll let ya know what we decide.

Gallery: Droid 2 R2-D2 edition dock

Droid R2-D2 gets docked -- not in a X-Wing originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 03 Sep 2010 13:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androiddockdocksdroiddroid 2droid 2 r2 d2droid 2 r2-d2Droid2Droid2R2-d2Droid2R2D2motorolar2 d2r2-d2R2D2star warsStarWarsverizonFri, 03 Sep 2010 13:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Droid 2 R2-D2 edition coming September 30]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/12/droid-2-r2-d2-edition-coming-september-30/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/12/droid-2-r2-d2-edition-coming-september-30/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/12/droid-2-r2-d2-edition-coming-september-30/#comments Looks like Verizon and Motorola have finally come clean with the release dates on that sweet Droid 2 R2-D2 edition -- a poster next to that demo unit at the Star Wars-themed Celebration V convention in Orlando says it's due to arrive on September 30. Unfortunately there's no word on how much more this thing will cost over the regular Droid 2, but hey -- Artoo's worth it, right? Check a couple more high-res shots at the source link.

Droid 2 R2-D2 edition coming September 30 originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 12 Aug 2010 17:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androiddroiddroid 2droid 2 r2-d2droid 2 r2d2Droid2Droid2R2-d2Droid2R2d2motorolar2-d2r2d2verizonThu, 12 Aug 2010 17:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Droid 2 R2-D2 edition spied in the wild, ready to repair your X-wing]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/11/droid-2-r2-d2-edition-spied-in-the-wild-ready-to-repair-your-x/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/11/droid-2-r2-d2-edition-spied-in-the-wild-ready-to-repair-your-x/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/11/droid-2-r2-d2-edition-spied-in-the-wild-ready-to-repair-your-x/#comments If you compare this shot of the bespoke R2-D2 Droid 2 to the background of Verizon's teaser site (inset), you can see this is almost certainly the genuine article -- and we knew that Verizon intended to intro this thing at the Star Wars-themed Celebration V conference kicking off today, so this is all making a lot of sense. We admit, we were kind of hoping for a graphic that was a little more... you know, R2-D2-shaped, but when it comes to astromech-themed gear, we'll take what we can get.

[Thanks, Brian D.]

Droid 2 R2-D2 edition spied in the wild, ready to repair your X-wing originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 11 Aug 2010 19:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androiddroid 2Droid2googlein the wildInTheWildmotomotorolar2-d2r2d2star warsStarWarsverizonverizon wirelessVerizonWirelessvzwWed, 11 Aug 2010 19:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Robonaut 2 enters final preparations before flying off into space]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/08/robonaut-2-enters-final-preparations-before-flying-off-into-spac/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/08/robonaut-2-enters-final-preparations-before-flying-off-into-spac/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/08/robonaut-2-enters-final-preparations-before-flying-off-into-spac/#comments Tests, upgrades and final checks are being carried out on the Robonaut 2, the humanoid spacefaring robot that has been in the works since 2007. The baby of NASA and General Motors, this sack of metal and wires has already produced a catalog of 34 new patents and, according to GM, is setting the stage for new safety features in forthcoming generations of its road vehicles. Sensor technology being developed in the R2 could deliver better lane departure warning systems, adaptive cruise control, and more intelligent parking assistance. That's good news and all, but can we ship it out to the ISS already -- we'd rather it be off-world when its instruction set switches from "serve humans" to "serve human meat."

Continue reading Robonaut 2 enters final preparations before flying off into space

Robonaut 2 enters final preparations before flying off into space originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 08 Jul 2010 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advanced roboticsAdvancedRoboticsdiscoverygeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgmhumanoidhumanoid robotHumanoidRobotinternational space stationInternationalSpaceStationnasar2d2robonaut 2Robonaut2robotroboticsspacespace explorationspace shuttleSpaceExplorationSpaceShuttleThu, 08 Jul 2010 11:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Nao performs Star Wars homage, scores mad geek cred]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/12/11/nao-performs-star-wars-homage-scores-mad-geek-cred/http://www.engadget.com/2009/12/11/nao-performs-star-wars-homage-scores-mad-geek-cred/http://www.engadget.com/2009/12/11/nao-performs-star-wars-homage-scores-mad-geek-cred/#comments While we're still busy thinking up legitimate uses for a humanoid robot, Aldebaran Robotics keeps finding newer and zanier ways to play with its Nao. The latest is a pre-programmed Star Wars routine that should have all you aging loyalists positively moist with glee, and even includes a terrific R2D2 impersonation that is not to be missed. Past the break, you shall find it. Oh, and as to real world uses, there are further videos of Nao reading out your emails and doing balancing acts, which may be found at the source link.

Continue reading Nao performs Star Wars homage, scores mad geek cred

Nao performs Star Wars homage, scores mad geek cred originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 11 Dec 2009 08:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aldebaranaldebaran roboticsAldebaranRoboticsbotc-3podarth vaderDarthVaderhomagehumanoidhumanoid robotHumanoidRobotjapannaoosakaosaka universityOsakaUniversityr2d2robotrobotsstar warsStarWarsFri, 11 Dec 2009 08:37:00 EST<![CDATA[R2D2 turned into retro gaming shrine, includes head-mounted projector]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/23/r2d2-turned-into-retro-gaming-shrine-includes-head-mounted-proj/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/23/r2d2-turned-into-retro-gaming-shrine-includes-head-mounted-proj/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/23/r2d2-turned-into-retro-gaming-shrine-includes-head-mounted-proj/#comments We don't know exactly how to say this without overloading your nerd subsystem, but this R2D2 unit packs eight consoles, an integrated sound system and a projector for throwing your Jet Grind Radio sessions onto a wall. The only extras you'll need are the masses of controllers you see above and the steady constitution to not erupt into geek euphoria. Popular Science reader Brian De Vitis is the man you have to thank for this splicing of console goodness, and he's been kind enough to also provide a picture of the R2's mobo-laden innards. It awaits just past the break.

[Via Hack N Mod]

Continue reading R2D2 turned into retro gaming shrine, includes head-mounted projector

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R2D2 turned into retro gaming shrine, includes head-mounted projector originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 23 Sep 2009 05:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artooartoo-detooconsoleconsole modConsoleModconsolesdetoodiygeekhackhackinghackshomebrewhomemademodmoddingmodsprojectorr2r2-d2r2d2star warsStarWarsWed, 23 Sep 2009 05:30:00 EST<![CDATA[R2D2 casemod is affordable, convincing evidence of our continued love for old sci-fi epic]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/23/r2d2-casemod-is-affordable-convincing-evidence-of-our-continued/http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/23/r2d2-casemod-is-affordable-convincing-evidence-of-our-continued/http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/23/r2d2-casemod-is-affordable-convincing-evidence-of-our-continued/#comments
We'll let you in on a little secret: we find the constant stream of Star Wars-inspired you-name-it to be a little, shall we say... played? That said, this R2D2 casemod is totally, impressively rad. Made from a grabage can, it's obviously a labor of love, and the results are insanely "real" looking -- yup, that's Artoo-Deetoo, hanging out in that guy's humble abode. This droid's got a webcam, speakers, LEDs -- all the good stuff you'd expect from a highly detailed piece of nerdery, and if you're action-oriented, you can make one of your very own for roughly $150. Hit the read link for tons of photos and detailed instructions. One more shot of the little dude after the break.

Continue reading R2D2 casemod is affordable, convincing evidence of our continued love for old sci-fi epic

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R2D2 casemod is affordable, convincing evidence of our continued love for old sci-fi epic originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 23 Mar 2009 16:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casemoddiyhacksinstructionsmodmodsr2d2star warsStarWarsMon, 23 Mar 2009 16:12:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Darth Vader and R2D2 hubs fulfill your dork destiny]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/06/27/video-darth-vader-usb-hub-fulfills-your-dork-destiny/http://www.engadget.com/2008/06/27/video-darth-vader-usb-hub-fulfills-your-dork-destiny/http://www.engadget.com/2008/06/27/video-darth-vader-usb-hub-fulfills-your-dork-destiny/#comments
Put down that Lego nerd, it's time to give your (only?) other interest a poke. Meet the $68 animatronic Darth Vader and R2D2 USB hubs. Just stuff a USB Princess Leia into Darth's neck and watch the dark lord's eyes glow red as he scans side-to-side for the pretentious scowls of your contemptuous co-workers. Sounds effects? Oh you betcha, listen in after the break.

[Via Oh Gizmo!]

Continue reading Video: Darth Vader and R2D2 hubs fulfill your dork destiny

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Video: Darth Vader and R2D2 hubs fulfill your dork destiny originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 27 Jun 2008 05:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>darth vaderDarthVaderhubr2d2star warsStarWarsusbusb hubUsbHubvideoFri, 27 Jun 2008 05:47:00 EST<![CDATA[Limited edition R2-D2 DVD projector up for pre-order]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/02/22/limited-edition-r2-d2-dvd-projector-up-for-pre-order/http://www.engadget.com/2008/02/22/limited-edition-r2-d2-dvd-projector-up-for-pre-order/http://www.engadget.com/2008/02/22/limited-edition-r2-d2-dvd-projector-up-for-pre-order/#comments
Remember that R2-D2 projector that's been taunting you for months? Of course, how could you forget? Apparently, these critters are getting set to roll off the assembly line (seen above, if you couldn't piece it together) and into eager hands everywhere. The R2-D2 DVD Projector is up for pre-order right now for a stiff €2,799 ($4,114), and while that's most definitely more than we'd like to pay, it's probably better than waiting for all 4,000 to run out and being forced to pay "market price."

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Limited edition R2-D2 DVD projector up for pre-order originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 22 Feb 2008 01:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hdothersprojectorr2-d2r2d2r2d2 projectorR2d2Projectorshippingstar warsStarWarsFri, 22 Feb 2008 01:48:00 EST<![CDATA[Limited edition R2-D2 DVD projector up for pre-order]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/02/22/limited-edition-r2-d2-dvd-projector-up-for-pre-order/http://www.engadget.com/2008/02/22/limited-edition-r2-d2-dvd-projector-up-for-pre-order/http://www.engadget.com/2008/02/22/limited-edition-r2-d2-dvd-projector-up-for-pre-order/#comments
Remember that R2-D2 projector that's been taunting you for months? Of course, how could you forget? Apparently, these critters are getting set to roll off the assembly line (seen above, if you couldn't piece it together) and into eager hands everywhere. The R2-D2 DVD Projector is up for pre-order right now for a stiff €2,799 ($4,114), and while that's most definitely more than we'd like to pay, it's probably better than waiting for all 4,000 to run out and being forced to pay "market price."

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Limited edition R2-D2 DVD projector up for pre-order originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 22 Feb 2008 01:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hdtvprojectorr2-d2r2d2r2d2 projectorR2d2Projectorshippingstar warsStarWarsFri, 22 Feb 2008 01:48:00 EST<![CDATA[Nikko's R2-D2 projector abducted by Jawas -- on sale this fall]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/06/28/nikkos-r2-d2-projector-abducted-by-jawas-on-sale-this-fall/http://www.engadget.com/2007/06/28/nikkos-r2-d2-projector-abducted-by-jawas-on-sale-this-fall/http://www.engadget.com/2007/06/28/nikkos-r2-d2-projector-abducted-by-jawas-on-sale-this-fall/#comments
Oh you know you want it. Ever since his January debut at CES, you've been pining for the iconic friend of righteousness and home DVD projector. Let's just hope you saved up the ¥388,500 (about $3,160 or 43,000 galactic credits) to take him home. The 1/2 scale DLP projector features a slot-loading DVD player, 1,800:1 contrast, 1,500 lumen brightness, and resolution of 1,024 x 768 pixels. But you're not buying this based on specs alone now are you. Limited production run of 1,000 units begins "this fall." Prepare.

Gallery: Nikko's R2-D2 projector abducted by Jawas -- on sale this fall


[Via Impress]

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Nikko's R2-D2 projector abducted by Jawas -- on sale this fall originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 28 Jun 2007 03:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlpjapannikkoprojectorr2-d2r2d2Thu, 28 Jun 2007 03:12:00 EST<![CDATA[Nikko to pair R2D2 projector with Tie Fighter speakers]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/03/14/nikko-to-pair-r2d2-projector-with-tie-fighter-speakers/http://www.engadget.com/2007/03/14/nikko-to-pair-r2d2-projector-with-tie-fighter-speakers/http://www.engadget.com/2007/03/14/nikko-to-pair-r2d2-projector-with-tie-fighter-speakers/#comments
So it seems pretty obvious when you think about it: if you're gonna go out and spend $1000+ on a projector / DVD player / iPod dock shaped like R2D2 from those Star Wars movies, you can't really hook it up to just any old speakers, now can you? Sure, some nice tower speakers from Energy or Boston Acoustics would sound pretty great, but if you want your home theater to have that authentic Jedi feel to it, it would seem that something more thematic / tacky is in order. Well, projector (and matching R2 Skype webcam) manufacturer Nikko has apparently come to this realization as well, and probably due to the unexpected popularity of its products tucked into a corner of South Hall at CES, has come up with a 2.1 speaker system shaped like a pair of Tie-Fighters. Scheduled to launch at CeBIT, not much is known about this unique setup other than the fact that bass comes courtesy of a dedicated subwoofer emblazoned with the classic Star Wars logo. Check out a few different angles in the gallery below, and stay tuned as we attempt to once again track down Nikko's booth for more in-depth coverage of what will likely be the sleeper hit of this year's show.

Gallery: Nikko to pair R2D2 projector with Tie Fighter speakers

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Nikko to pair R2D2 projector with Tie Fighter speakers originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 14 Mar 2007 09:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cebit07nikko home entertainmentNikkoHomeEntertainmentr2d2speakersstar warsStarWarstie-fighterWed, 14 Mar 2007 09:53:00 EST<![CDATA[USPS goes postal with R2D2 mailboxes]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/03/09/usps-goes-postal-with-r2d2-mailboxes/http://www.engadget.com/2007/03/09/usps-goes-postal-with-r2d2-mailboxes/http://www.engadget.com/2007/03/09/usps-goes-postal-with-r2d2-mailboxes/#comments
Who knew the United States Postal Service could feel the Force? In honor of Star Wars' 30th anniversary, these kick-ass R2D2-wrapped mailboxes will be replacing the old boring ones in post offices across the nation. Star Wars lovers / haters can say whatever they like -- we're just glad this has nothing to do with Jar Jar Binks.

[Via Boing Boing]

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USPS goes postal with R2D2 mailboxes originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 09 Mar 2007 20:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mailboxR2D2Star WarsStarWarsUnited States Postal ServiceUnitedStatesPostalServiceUSPSFri, 09 Mar 2007 20:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: R2D2 projector, webcam and lightsabre Skype phone]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/01/10/video-r2d2-projector-webcam-and-lightsabre-skype-phone/http://www.engadget.com/2007/01/10/video-r2d2-projector-webcam-and-lightsabre-skype-phone/http://www.engadget.com/2007/01/10/video-r2d2-projector-webcam-and-lightsabre-skype-phone/#comments
This could be reaching out to our geek audience a bit too much, but the combo media dock-cum-projector housed in the Nikko Electronics R2D2's guts has to get at least a look. Besides the fact that it's the iconic little droid, the projector's remote is housed in a Millennium Falcon Hyperdrive, adding to the geek cred. Granted, the $2,500 price tag could be a bit prohibitive for your 12-year-old Star Wars obsessed nephew, but maybe he could give the wireless R2D2 webcam, or the Anakin Skywalker Lightsabre Skype phone a go. Regardless, check out the gallery below and the video after the break (or get your download on, if that's your thing).

[MP4] Download the video


Video: R2D2 projector, webcam and lightsabre Skype phone

Continue reading Video: R2D2 projector, webcam and lightsabre Skype phone

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Video: R2D2 projector, webcam and lightsabre Skype phone originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 10 Jan 2007 20:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CESengadgetvideofeatureslight sabreLightSabreprojectorr2d2skypestar warsStarWarsWed, 10 Jan 2007 20:50:00 EST