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[Permanent anti-fog coating could mean end to steamy specs]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/20/permanent-anti-fog-coating-could-mean-end-to-steamy-specs/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/20/permanent-anti-fog-coating-could-mean-end-to-steamy-specs/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/20/permanent-anti-fog-coating-could-mean-end-to-steamy-specs/#commentsUnless you're blind, or just plain out of the loop, you've probably noticed a proliferation of folks rocking spectacles as accessories of late, but for those of us who wear the things out of necessity, there's no taking 'em off when our lenses fog up. Lucky for us, a team of Canadian researchers have patented a new permanent anti-fog coating that they claim is the first of its kind. To make sure the stuff wouldn't wash away, the crew applied four successive layers of molecules to a transparent material (either glass or plastic) before overlaying it with polyvinyl alcohol, allowing water to spread uniformly and avoiding the steamy-windows effect. The result? A super durable, multilayer coating that won't rub off, regardless of the freakish conditions you and your face encounter. Its creators see endless applications for their invention, including windshields, visors, camera lenses, and, of course, eyewear. Now that that's out of the way, we suggest they concentrate their efforts on sweat-less nose pads.

Permanent anti-fog coating could mean end to steamy specs originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 20 Mar 2011 04:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alcoholantianti foganti fog coatinganti-fogAntiFogAntiFogCoatingcameracamera lensesCameraLensescanadacoatingeyewearfogfoggyglasseslensesleval universityLevalUniversitypermanentpolyvinylpolyvinyl alcoholPolyvinylAlcoholprotectiveprotective coatingProtectiveCoatingresearchsteamuniversite levalUniversiteLevaluniversity levalUniversityLevalSun, 20 Mar 2011 04:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Japanese doctor turns hot toddy into superconductor catalyst]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/13/japanese-doctor-turns-hot-toddy-into-superconductor-catalyst/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/13/japanese-doctor-turns-hot-toddy-into-superconductor-catalyst/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/13/japanese-doctor-turns-hot-toddy-into-superconductor-catalyst/#comments It's rare that hot booze does anything more than get you drunk, and possibly make you sick, but according to Dr. Yoshihiko Takano, the drink you're sucking on could facilitate the levitation of a train. After a party for a colleague, the Japanese scientist found that FeTe0.8S0.2 (composed of iron, tellurium, and tellurium sulfide), when soaked in warm booze overnight, shows signs of increased superconductivity -- another in a long line of liquor-enhanced discoveries that could have far reaching effects on everything from consumer electronics to public transportation. Dr. Takano decided to test the material (known to become a superconductor after soaking in water) in the leftover alcohol from the party: beer, red wine, white wine, sake, shochu, and whiskey. As it turns out, red wine has the highest superconducting volume fraction at 62.4 percent -- nearly four times higher than the ethanol-water control samples. Dr. Takano and his colleagues speculate that the ease with which wine and beer oxidize could be play a key role in the increase in superconductivity. We speculate that even a superconductor gets a little hopped up after soaking in a bottle of wine.

Japanese doctor turns hot toddy into superconductor catalyst originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 13 Jan 2011 08:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alcoholboozeelectricityenergyhot boozeHotBoozepowerred wineRedWinesciencesuperconductivitysuperconductorsuperconductorswhiskeywhite wineWhiteWinewineYoshihiko TakanoYoshihikoTakanoThu, 13 Jan 2011 08:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Medea Vodka (and its radical programmable LED bottle) now ready to party]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/02/medea-vodka-and-its-radical-programmable-led-bottle-now-ready/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/02/medea-vodka-and-its-radical-programmable-led-bottle-now-ready/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/02/medea-vodka-and-its-radical-programmable-led-bottle-now-ready/#comments It may not be your birthday, but it's most definitely the weekend. And if you're looking to have a "good time," there's hardly a better place to look than your local ABC store. We mean... whatever place you can find that sells Medea. Put simply, this vodka maker has decided to wrap its spirits inside of bottles that boast programmable LED displays, and while the company has been kicking the tires for a small while now, we'll have you know that these things are now available for purchase ($39.99 a pop) over the world wide web. Programming information is down there at the source link, and if you've been searching for the perfect complement to your LED rims, look no further. Man, if only Brennan Huff and Dale Doback would've had access to this while shooting their first and only music video...

Continue reading Medea Vodka (and its radical programmable LED bottle) now ready to party

Medea Vodka (and its radical programmable LED bottle) now ready to party originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 02 Oct 2010 03:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alcoholawesomeclubcomedydrinkingfoodfunnyledMedeaMedea spiritsMedea vodkaMedeaSpiritsMedeaVodkapartyvideovodkawildSat, 02 Oct 2010 03:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Whiskey byproducts turned into biofuel, scientists prove they have a sense of humor]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/19/whiskey-byproducts-turned-into-biofuel-scientists-prove-they-ha/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/19/whiskey-byproducts-turned-into-biofuel-scientists-prove-they-ha/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/19/whiskey-byproducts-turned-into-biofuel-scientists-prove-they-ha/#comments Did you know that gasoline was originally considered a waste byproduct of kerosene production? Seriously, people would take crude oil, refine the kerosene out of it, and dump the rest. Working along similar lines of harnessing what had heretofore been considered useless, researchers at Edinburgh Napier University have come up with a way to turn leftovers from whiskey distillation into a biofuel. Using the spent grains (or "graff") and liquid from the copper stills (called "pot ale"), they've been able to produce biobutanol -- a fuel that's 30 percent more efficient than ethanol and, importantly, compatible with gasoline-fired vehicles without the need for engine mods. We honestly had to check the calendar to make sure it wasn't the beginning of April, but the university says its next stop is taking this thing to market. More power to them.

Whiskey byproducts turned into biofuel, scientists prove they have a sense of humor originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 19 Aug 2010 10:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alcoholbio-fuelbiobutanolbiofuelbyproductbyproductsdistillationdraffeco-friendlyedinburghedinburgh napier universityEdinburghNapierUniversityenvironmentally friendlyEnvironmentallyFriendlyfuelpot alePotAleresearchscotchscotlandscottishuniversitywhiskeyThu, 19 Aug 2010 10:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Heineken Bot does what it says on the keg, soon to be man's new best friend (update: new video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/02/07/heineken-bot-does-what-it-says-on-the-keg-soon-to-be-mans-new/http://www.engadget.com/2010/02/07/heineken-bot-does-what-it-says-on-the-keg-soon-to-be-mans-new/http://www.engadget.com/2010/02/07/heineken-bot-does-what-it-says-on-the-keg-soon-to-be-mans-new/#comments If you ask us, our theory is that the Daleks are rather huggable by nature, but they probably partied a tad too hard with these beer-toting fellas before trashing the world. One such "Heineken Bot" -- crafted by the geniuses at Middlesex University -- turned up at Kinetica Art Fair in London. Daring humans can stop this drifting bot by hovering their hands above its sonar-sensing head, and then place a cup in its holder for some bevvy spat out of its keg. When you're served, the lonewolf continues to wander along its pre-programmed path, probably waiting for the assassination signal from Skynet. See for yourself after the break while you're still alive.

Update: Chris Barlow from the project team has just hit us with a video of the upgraded Heinken Bot. Check it out after the break.

Gallery: Heineken Bot at Kinetica Art Fair 2010

Continue reading Heineken Bot does what it says on the keg, soon to be man's new best friend (update: new video)

Heineken Bot does what it says on the keg, soon to be man's new best friend (update: new video) originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 07 Feb 2010 02:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alcoholbeerhands-onheinekenheineken botHeinekenBotkinetica art fairkinetica art fair 2010kinetica museumKineticaArtFairKineticaArtFair2010KineticaMuseumlondonmiddlesex universityMiddlesexUniversityrobotSun, 07 Feb 2010 02:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Rock Band Bar Nights encourages sloppy thrashing in watering holes]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/02/rock-band-bar-nights-encourages-sloppy-thrashing-in-watering-hol/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/02/rock-band-bar-nights-encourages-sloppy-thrashing-in-watering-hol/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/02/rock-band-bar-nights-encourages-sloppy-thrashing-in-watering-hol/#comments
There are a few things you should generally avoid whilst inebriated in a bar: saying something offensive to someone larger than you is one, and attempting to play a song with any accuracy is another (see dude on left for proof). Regardless of the facts, MTV Games and Harmonix are looking to capitalize on the raging success that is Rock Band by introducing Rock Band Bar Nights. Said program hooks registered watering holes up with "everything from exclusive Rock Band product offerings to multiplatform marketing support," and venues that sign up will also have access to an exclusive e-commerce store. Finally, those that register prior to September 8th will get a five-song preview disc from The Beatles: Rock Band, giving you serious motivation to get your local pub invested in the initiative. Just be sure to avoid "Expert" after the eighth White Russian, cool?

[Via HotHardware]

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Rock Band Bar Nights encourages sloppy thrashing in watering holes originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 02 Sep 2009 08:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alcoholbar nightsBarNightsdrinkinggamesgaminginstrumentsmusicrock bandrock band bar nightsRockBandRockBandBarNightsvideo gamesVideoGamesWed, 02 Sep 2009 08:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Toyota develops breathalyzer ignition-interlock, BJ McKay promises to hack it]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/31/toyota-develops-breathalyzer-ignition-interlock-bj-mckay-promis/http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/31/toyota-develops-breathalyzer-ignition-interlock-bj-mckay-promis/http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/31/toyota-develops-breathalyzer-ignition-interlock-bj-mckay-promis/#comments
Shoving breathalyzers into MIDs and PNDs has been all the rage overseas for quite a while, and now it looks like Toyota itself is getting in on the act. The breath-alcohol ignition-interlock system features a handset that detects alcohol on your breath (if any) and snaps your mug with a digital camera. Depending on your level of "fun" (that is, alcohol consumption) the thing can be set to alert you (in case you forgot about those three Iron Citys) or lock the vehicle's ignition altogether. In addition, it can be used to monitor vehicles of commercial fleets and notify the boss if the driver shows up sloshed. Testing of the device commences September 1st, and will go through November 30. Historians agree that had this technology been available thirty years ago, the 1970s CB radio craze could have been avoided altogether.

[Via Yahoo!]

Continue reading Toyota develops breathalyzer ignition-interlock, BJ McKay promises to hack it

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Toyota develops breathalyzer ignition-interlock, BJ McKay promises to hack it originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 31 Aug 2009 16:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alcoholbreathalyzerdrunk drivingDrunkDrivinghino motorsHinoMotorsignitionignition interlock devicesIgnitionInterlockDevicestoyotatransportationtruckersMon, 31 Aug 2009 16:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Rotgutonix -- the slightly paranoid, somewhat discerning drunk's best friend]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/13/rotgutonix-the-slightly-paranoid-somewhat-discerning-drunks/http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/13/rotgutonix-the-slightly-paranoid-somewhat-discerning-drunks/http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/13/rotgutonix-the-slightly-paranoid-somewhat-discerning-drunks/#comments

So concerned with the quality of the liquor you binge-drink that you think a testing device that looks just like a pregnancy test is in order? Sweet -- Rotgutonix has got you covered! Just uncap the tip, dip it in your drink for a few seconds -- and you'll have an answer in under a minute -- and while the device is only capable of recognizing five liquors at this point, the company hopes future iterations will include up to twenty. Sure, it's a novelty item, and likely won't actually be able to tell you if that Johnnie Walker you're swilling is "rotgut," i.e., poison, but it's fun, right? Of course, you could just do what we do -- subsist entirely on seltzer -- and save yourself the trouble of having to wonder if your alcohol is poison (probably). Sadly, it seems to be unavailable for purchase yet, but we're going to keep our eyes out for this one, we assure you.

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Rotgutonix -- the slightly paranoid, somewhat discerning drunk's best friend originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 13 Aug 2009 22:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alcoholdrinkingdrunksnoveltyrotgutrotgutonixThu, 13 Aug 2009 22:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Serv O'Beer pours when iPhone accelerometer tells it to]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/05/serv-obeer-pours-when-iphone-accelerometer-tells-it-to/http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/05/serv-obeer-pours-when-iphone-accelerometer-tells-it-to/http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/05/serv-obeer-pours-when-iphone-accelerometer-tells-it-to/#comments Now that the holiday season is officially over (CES notwithstanding), there's officially no better time to get inebriated and wash away the sorrows of not having another government-recognized holiday for like, ever. After you've drug that dead tree out to the roadside and filled a few buckets with tears, why not try constructing your very Serv O'Beer in order to bring just a sliver of that joy back into your heart? Put simply, the project pictured above utilized Construx as the mechanical platform, a servo driving the action and ioBridge controlling the system; a so-called "perfect pour" was executed by linking an iPhone accelerometer to the system and turning it up. Have a look at the demonstration vid just past the break -- dollars to donuts it'll make you smile.

[Thanks, Hans]

Continue reading Serv O'Beer pours when iPhone accelerometer tells it to

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Serv O'Beer pours when iPhone accelerometer tells it to originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 05 Jan 2009 05:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accelerometeralcoholbeerConstruxdiyhackhacksioBridgeiphonekinexmodmodsServ OBeerServObeervideoMon, 05 Jan 2009 05:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Serv O'Beer pours when iPhone accelerometer tells it to]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/05/serv-obeer-pours-when-iphone-accelerometer-tells-it-to/http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/05/serv-obeer-pours-when-iphone-accelerometer-tells-it-to/http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/05/serv-obeer-pours-when-iphone-accelerometer-tells-it-to/#comments
Now that the holiday season is officially over (CES notwithstanding), there's officially no better time to get inebriated and wash away the sorrows of not having another government-recognized holiday for like, ever. After you've drug that dead tree out to the roadside and filled a few buckets with tears, why not try constructing your very Serv O'Beer in order to bring just a sliver of that joy back into your heart? Put simply, the project pictured above utilized Construx as the mechanical platform, a servo driving the action and ioBridge controlling the system; a so-called "perfect pour" was executed by linking an iPhone accelerometer to the system and turning it up. Have a look at the demonstration vid just past the break -- dollars to donuts it'll make you smile.

[Thanks, Hans]

Continue reading Serv O'Beer pours when iPhone accelerometer tells it to

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Serv O'Beer pours when iPhone accelerometer tells it to originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 05 Jan 2009 04:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accelerometeralcoholapplebeerConstruxdiyhackioBridgeiphonekinexmobilemodperipheralsServ OBeerServObeervideoMon, 05 Jan 2009 04:54:00 EST<![CDATA[In-car fingerprint scanner keeps drunks, thieves from starting your car]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/16/in-car-fingerprint-scanner-keeps-drunks-thieves-from-starting-y/http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/16/in-car-fingerprint-scanner-keeps-drunks-thieves-from-starting-y/http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/16/in-car-fingerprint-scanner-keeps-drunks-thieves-from-starting-y/#commentsHow's this for dual purpose? Zhao Wencai and Li Zhoumu, two graduate students at the China University of Geosciences, have concocted a prototype device which checks for two important bits of information before allowing a car to start. First, it scans your fingerprint to make sure you're on the authorized driver database; second, it takes a long, hard look (okay, so maybe 20 seconds isn't all that long) at the sweat on your digit to determine just how sober or inebriated you are. There's no telling when this will hit motorcars en masse, but we'd say the whole thing needs to get a whole lot smaller before it's a viable option.

[Via Wired]

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In-car fingerprint scanner keeps drunks, thieves from starting your car originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 16 Dec 2008 08:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alcoholchinadrivingdrunk drivingDrunkDrivingresearchsafetyscanneruniversityTue, 16 Dec 2008 08:11:00 EST<![CDATA[Three Sheets not done yet: New Year's Eve Pub Crawl from London on MOJO's website]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/01/three-sheets-not-done-yet-new-years-eve-pub-crawl-from-london/http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/01/three-sheets-not-done-yet-new-years-eve-pub-crawl-from-london/http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/01/three-sheets-not-done-yet-new-years-eve-pub-crawl-from-london/#comments
iN DEMAND Networks has heard you loud and clear, and it's giving Three Sheets fanatics at least one more look at Zane Lamprey's blitzed face this New Year's Eve. On the very day that MOJO HD vanished from programming providers everywhere, in flies a release informing us that what's likely the channel's most loved show will be back for another go... online. The second annual Three Sheets New Year's Even Pub Crawl will air this year from London, and it will begin streaming at the stroke of midnight ET on January 1, 2009. The 45-minute special will see Zane dropping by the bar at Duke's Hotel, Green and Red on the East End and Casa Blue (just to name a few). Oh, and if you're really dedicated to the show, you can hit up the Zane Years Eve party in LA, which will include a screening of this very show. We'll keep you posted on anything we hear regarding the show being picked up on another network (hint, hint, networks). Full release is after the break.

Continue reading Three Sheets not done yet: New Year's Eve Pub Crawl from London on MOJO's website

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Three Sheets not done yet: New Year's Eve Pub Crawl from London on MOJO's website originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 01 Dec 2008 15:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alcoholbeerbreaking newsBreakingNewshdinternetinternet tvinternet videoInternetTvInternetVideoMOJOMOJO HDMojoHdnew contentnewcontentthree sheetsThreeSheetstravelzane LampreyZaneLampreyMon, 01 Dec 2008 15:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Karim Rashid-designed Globalight champagne cooler steals the show]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/04/16/karim-rashid-designed-globalight-champagne-cooler-steals-the-sho/http://www.engadget.com/2008/04/16/karim-rashid-designed-globalight-champagne-cooler-steals-the-sho/http://www.engadget.com/2008/04/16/karim-rashid-designed-globalight-champagne-cooler-steals-the-sho/#comments
Typically, you'd think a pricey bottle of Veuve Clicquot champagne would be the star attraction on a night out, but we'd have to suggest otherwise if said container is being toted around in this thing. The Karim Rashid-designed apparatus, which is limited to just 500 pieces worldwide, is said to be a "modern reinterpretation of the traditional French chandelier." As for utility, it promises to keep your alcohol chilled for four solid hours, and considering the built-in LEDs will also flicker out after the same amount of time, we suppose that's a good indicator of when it's time to toss 'er back and get going. Here in the US, a handful of the Globalight's will be available exclusively at select W Hotels, but you're not unboxing one without laying down $4,500 first.

[Via Luxurylaunches, thanks Yoge]

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Karim Rashid-designed Globalight champagne cooler steals the show originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 16 Apr 2008 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alcoholbeveragechampagnefoodGlobalightKarim RashidKarimRashidVeuve ClicquotVeuveClicquotwinewine coolerWineCoolerWed, 16 Apr 2008 08:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Chassis the beer pouring robot gets paint job, even more lovable]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/03/12/chassis-the-beer-pouring-robot-gets-paint-job-even-more-lovable/http://www.engadget.com/2008/03/12/chassis-the-beer-pouring-robot-gets-paint-job-even-more-lovable/http://www.engadget.com/2008/03/12/chassis-the-beer-pouring-robot-gets-paint-job-even-more-lovable/#comments
Robots that assist in taking humans to their desired level of inebriation are far from new, but Chassis is just too darn likable to ignore. The beer pouring creature itself has actually doled out a few pints in its lifetime, but apparently, the latest spotting showed off a snazzy new paint job and a few additional lights. Heck, there's even a built-in microphone and speaker for "audience interaction." Best of all, however, is that the operator of this fellow can make it talk to party goers in the vicinity, and while we're currently unsure of its marital status, we have all ideas that it's a real hit with the ladies. Check out a few more snapshots in the read link below.

[Via UberReview]

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Chassis the beer pouring robot gets paint job, even more lovable originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 12 Mar 2008 09:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alcoholbeerbeer pouringBeerPouringchassisrobotWed, 12 Mar 2008 09:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Wine bottle flash drive: too sweet for our tastes]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/11/06/wine-bottle-flash-drive-too-sweet-for-our-tastes/http://www.engadget.com/2007/11/06/wine-bottle-flash-drive-too-sweet-for-our-tastes/http://www.engadget.com/2007/11/06/wine-bottle-flash-drive-too-sweet-for-our-tastes/#commentsAt this point, it's hard to envision an object that hasn't been miniaturized for the purpose of creating yet another novel flash drive, so you won't color us wowed with BeWine Connected's latest. This wine bottle USB drive packs Open Cellar wine cellar management software, a screensaver / wallpaper and wine-influenced ringtones (saywha?) onto 1GB of internal storage, but we'd be tempted to promptly format the thing upon arrival. Nevertheless, those interested in expanding their weird-but-still-useful collection of thumb drives can hand over €35 ($50) and claim one more solid addition.

[Via Gizmag]

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Wine bottle flash drive: too sweet for our tastes originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 06 Nov 2007 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alcoholflash driveFlashDrivefoodusb driveusb flash driveUsbDriveUsbFlashDrivewineTue, 06 Nov 2007 09:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Pocketable probe could detect drink spiking]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/08/15/pocketable-probe-could-detect-drink-spiking/http://www.engadget.com/2007/08/15/pocketable-probe-could-detect-drink-spiking/http://www.engadget.com/2007/08/15/pocketable-probe-could-detect-drink-spiking/#commentsGranted, we've come across hordes of patent applications that were far from practical, but if it's the premise that counts, we suppose this one works out alright. The app calls for a "probe" which could then be inserted into a drink, and an indicator connected to a database that would enlighten you if your drink has indeed been injected with a noxious solution while you weren't paying attention. The process would also require that a blast of electricity be sent through the probe, and though it's not directly stated, it also entails that the user be sober enough to understand it and willing to bust it out whilst partying. We have our doubts about the last two ever truly working out.

[Via MedLaunches, image courtesy of BBC]

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Pocketable probe could detect drink spiking originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 15 Aug 2007 01:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alcoholbeerchemicaldrinkdrink spikingDrinkSpikingpatentWed, 15 Aug 2007 01:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Automated drink slinger takes orders via LCD]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/08/14/automated-drink-slinger-takes-orders-via-lcd/http://www.engadget.com/2007/08/14/automated-drink-slinger-takes-orders-via-lcd/http://www.engadget.com/2007/08/14/automated-drink-slinger-takes-orders-via-lcd/#comments
Sure, we've seen legions of automated bartenders and coffee machines that conjure up your preferred cup of joe each morning, but the Digital Beverages MyFountain takes things up a notch. Sporting a touchscreen LCD, an internet-linked Windows XP computer, and the ability to be "100-percent customizable," this mechanical drink slinger reportedly interfaces with a "dorm-style refrigerator" that holds a dozen types of alcohol and mixers along with a water line and carbon-dioxide cartridge. Furthermore, the grown-ups can even password protect the non-virgin beverages on tap, and while it would sure be nice to kiss tips goodbye and hold all of your parties in-house, this bad boy supposedly starts at a stiff $2,575. Click on for a couple snapshots of the interface.

[Via CNET, image courtesy of PopSci]

Continue reading Automated drink slinger takes orders via LCD

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Automated drink slinger takes orders via LCD originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 14 Aug 2007 00:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alcoholbartendercookingdrinkdrink mixerDrinkMixerfoodmyfountainTue, 14 Aug 2007 00:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan unveils concept car with anti-drunk driving technology]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/08/03/nissan-unveils-concept-car-with-anti-drunk-driving-technology/http://www.engadget.com/2007/08/03/nissan-unveils-concept-car-with-anti-drunk-driving-technology/http://www.engadget.com/2007/08/03/nissan-unveils-concept-car-with-anti-drunk-driving-technology/#comments
Just as expected, Nissan has indeed rolled out a concept vehicle that showcases its long-awaited anti-drunk driving technology. The vehicle sports "multiple preventative features" designed to curb inebriated operation of vehicles, and essentially detects the driver's state of sobriety and kicks into action if you've had a bit much. Amongst the detection agents are alcohol odor sensors built into the locking shift knob, seat-mounted sensors that can activate a voice and navigation screen warning, and a facial monitoring system that determines your "state of consciousness through your eyes." Regrettably, there's still no word as to when this system could actually hit showroom floors, but if the automaker has shelled out enough dough to craft a concept vehicle, we'd imagine it's not too far out.

[Via TheAutoChannel]

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Nissan unveils concept car with anti-drunk driving technology originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 03 Aug 2007 15:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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There's no shortage of gadgetry designed to keep your wine legit and chilled, but the Nuvo Vino infrared thermometer is hitting the market to ensure that your pre-drink rambling doesn't lead to you drinking an overly warm glass. The simplistic device sports a retractable sensor that purportedly measures the exact temperature of the wine itself, and there's plenty of accompanying documentation to inform you of what perfect degree you should look for before indulging. As expected, it also features a fairly attractive motif in order to catch the eye of the affluent, but until they add built-in aural cues that blurt out whether or not your beverage is ideal, we'll hold onto our $49.95.

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Nuvo Wino infrared wine thermometer sports retractable sensor originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 22 May 2007 10:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alcoholbeerdrinkingluxurynuvo winoNuvoWinoretractablesensorsensorsthermometerwineTue, 22 May 2007 10:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Foster's to aid in first "beer battery" fuel cell project]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/05/03/fosters-to-aid-in-first-beer-battery-fuel-cell-project/http://www.engadget.com/2007/05/03/fosters-to-aid-in-first-beer-battery-fuel-cell-project/http://www.engadget.com/2007/05/03/fosters-to-aid-in-first-beer-battery-fuel-cell-project/#commentsWhile it's certainly debatable whether beer is to thank for the explosion in the consumer electronics industry, it looks like we'll be thanking the beverage without hesitation for making our world a little greener. Oddly enough, "scientists and Australian beer maker Foster's are teaming up to generate clean energy from brewery waste water by using sugar-consuming bacteria," and better yet, the University of Queensland will host a microbial fuel cell at a Foster's Group brewery near Brisbane. Essentially, the cell will consume brewery wastes such as sugar, starch, and alcohol, while producing clean electricity by harnessing the energy released from the organic materials coming in. The device is expected to produce two-kilowatts of power, and while hopes are to bring the technology to other breweries and wineries around the country, this iteration should crank up sometime in September.

[Via Physorg, thanks Michael T.]

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Foster's to aid in first "beer battery" fuel cell project originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 03 May 2007 08:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alcoholAustraliabacteriabeerbeer batteryBeerBatterybiodegradablebiologybrewerybrisbaneelectricityenergyfoster'sfuel cellFuelCellgreenpowerqueenslandscienceThu, 03 May 2007 08:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Beer to thank for consumer electronics explosion?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/04/18/beer-to-thank-for-consumer-electronics-explosion/http://www.engadget.com/2007/04/18/beer-to-thank-for-consumer-electronics-explosion/http://www.engadget.com/2007/04/18/beer-to-thank-for-consumer-electronics-explosion/#commentsBeer has certainly found its place in worldwide culture, but claiming that it's the foundation for all of the consumer electronics that we enjoy today is probably stretching it. Nevertheless, the controversial (or just plain sarcastic) Charlie Bamforth proclaims that "beer is the basis of modern static civilization," touting his three decades at Anheuser-Busch as a knowledge base. Essentially, Charlie insinuates that beer spurned innovation in ages past by making the early brewers think outside of the box, which subsequently led to tents, then cities, and by extension, iPods, laptops, and USB-powered oddities. Granted, the man's linkages make entirely more sense when inebriated (or at least tipsy), so if you're looking to prove just how important alcohol is to your gadget collection, grab a few cans and hit the read link below.

[Via Inquirer]

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Beer to thank for consumer electronics explosion? originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 18 Apr 2007 21:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alcoholBamforthbeerbeveragecivilizationdrinkelectronicsWed, 18 Apr 2007 21:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Inebriated crooks leave behind digital snapshots of themselves]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/03/18/inebriated-crooks-leave-behind-digital-snapshots-of-themselves/http://www.engadget.com/2007/03/18/inebriated-crooks-leave-behind-digital-snapshots-of-themselves/http://www.engadget.com/2007/03/18/inebriated-crooks-leave-behind-digital-snapshots-of-themselves/#commentsIt's one thing to lose track of all the peripherals you need to gank whilst stealing a gaming console, but to leave behind digital snapshots of yourself at a crime scene is on an entirely different level of dumb. In a case filled with Darwin award nominees, a team of self-incriminating thieves managed to break into private property and jack about "$5,000 worth of expensive alcohol, including $800 bottles of wine and high-dollar scotch," only to forget a digital camera filled with photos of the party in progress. Interestingly, game designer Richard Garriott (Ultima Online, anyone?) actually owns the property, and has stated that he'll probably install a swank video surveillance / security system to prevent such an annoyance from happening again. But if you've been wondering how to make a quick buck in order to snag a few new pieces of kit flowing out of CeBIT, Texas police are offering "up to $1,000 in reward money" for leading investigators to the less-than-intelligent criminals.

[Via Fark]

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Inebriated crooks leave behind digital snapshots of themselves originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 18 Mar 2007 18:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alcoholaustinbeerdarwindrunkdumblarcenyrewardstealstealingstupidtexastheftthiefweirdSun, 18 Mar 2007 18:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Russians congregate over internet, drink via USB shot glasses]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/02/21/russians-congregate-over-internet-drink-via-usb-shot-glasses/http://www.engadget.com/2007/02/21/russians-congregate-over-internet-drink-via-usb-shot-glasses/http://www.engadget.com/2007/02/21/russians-congregate-over-internet-drink-via-usb-shot-glasses/#comments
Considering that we've all some of us have been enjoying online chats, poker, and dating for quite some while, it's not too shocking to see the Russians utilize the power of the web to bring alcoholics and social drinkers together in inebriated harmony. Sergey Mikheev, head of e-generator, has devised a USB shot glass to allow lonely, alcohol-needing individuals to get their drink on while safely at home. While we don't consider ourselves experts in Russian culture, it's apparently not tactful to get plastered solo, and while online drinking might be stretching the rules just a bit, we're sure those vodka-lovin' internet dwellers aren't complaining. The idea is to join a group of drinkers in an online lounge, where the USB shot glass levels are shown on each person's screen; once the go-ahead is given, the folks turn up their glasses and chug it down, ideally showing an empty glass after a random smashing of keys somehow spells out congratulatory phrases. As interesting and novel as this may be, let it remind us all how "getting a life" should be taken oh-so-seriously.

[Via ChipChick]

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Russians congregate over internet, drink via USB shot glasses originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 21 Feb 2007 14:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alcoholculturedrinkdrinkingrussiarussianshot glassShotGlassusbusb shot glassUsbShotGlassvodkaWed, 21 Feb 2007 14:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Toyota getting into the anti-drunk driving game]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/01/04/toyota-getting-into-the-anti-drunk-driving-game/http://www.engadget.com/2007/01/04/toyota-getting-into-the-anti-drunk-driving-game/http://www.engadget.com/2007/01/04/toyota-getting-into-the-anti-drunk-driving-game/#commentsJust days after most everyone in the world celebrated (read: ingested alcohol) the new year, Toyota is hitting us up with news declaring that drunk driving won't be tolerated in its future fleet of vehicles. Although Nissan has already considered an add-on option that would prevent inebriated individuals from motoring around on a whim, it looks like Toyota is following suit with its own anti-drunk driving approach. Reportedly, the automaker is developing a "fail-safe system for cars that detects drunken drivers and automatically shuts the vehicle down if sensors pick up signs of excessive alcohol consumption." Utilizing "sweat detectors," the steering wheel automatically sniffs out the driver's BAC and can restrict the car from cranking if it deems necessary; additionally, it can recognize "abnormal steering" or take advantage of the "special camera installed to monitor your pupils" in order to slow your vehicle to a halt if you're smart aware enough to wear gloves when taking the wheel. While we've no idea how much Toyota will inflate vehicle prices to account for this, um, luxury, the firm purportedly hopes to outfit its cars with the system "by the end of 2009."

[Via The Raw Feed]

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Toyota getting into the anti-drunk driving game originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 04 Jan 2007 03:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alarmalcoholalertanti drunkAntiDrunkconcerneddangerousdrunkDrunkenduidwihazardinebrieatedintoxicatedjapansensorsteeringsystemtechnologytoyotavehiclewarningThu, 04 Jan 2007 03:11:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan considering anti-drunk driving technology]]>http://www.engadget.com/2006/09/15/nissan-considering-anti-drunk-driving-technology/http://www.engadget.com/2006/09/15/nissan-considering-anti-drunk-driving-technology/http://www.engadget.com/2006/09/15/nissan-considering-anti-drunk-driving-technology/#commentsAlthough third-party options have long been available to interfere with the poor decision to start a car while inebriated, a recent string of alcohol-related accidents in Japan has led Nissan to begin mulling over a factory installed system that prevents intoxicated individuals from cranking up their own ride. The technology would utilize "breathalyzer-like devices" to detect the blood alcohol content when you got behind the wheel, and if it finds that you're over the legal limit, the hopes of turning that engine over are squashed. Potential "solutions" included a straw-like device which you'd have to puff on before ignition could ensue (sanitation concerns could become an issue here if you share your car with someone), or an automated system that would require drivers to enter a series of numbers (presumably difficult if you're not sober) before being granted access to cruise. While we don't know when these anti-drunk driving vehicles will start popping up at dealerships, we highly doubt folks that are careless enough to toss a few back before getting behind the wheel would have the presence of mind to pay extra for something like this when they buy their car -- besides, we'll all be using autopilot before too long, right?

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Nissan considering anti-drunk driving technology originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 15 Sep 2006 14:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alcoholbreathalyzerdrinkingdrunkdrunk drivingDrunkDrivingDUIDWINissanFri, 15 Sep 2006 14:32:00 EST<![CDATA[iBreath, your iPod-powered breathalyzer]]>http://www.engadget.com/2006/09/12/ibreath-your-ipod-powered-breathalyzer/http://www.engadget.com/2006/09/12/ibreath-your-ipod-powered-breathalyzer/http://www.engadget.com/2006/09/12/ibreath-your-ipod-powered-breathalyzer/#commentsYou know that people are trying to jump on the iPod bandwagon when someone releases a breathalyzer that connects to the ubiquitous music player. Yes, David Steele Enterprises (no, not that David Steel) has just released an iBreath ($50, black or white color), a small device to plug into the dock connector of your iPod. Sticking out of the side of the device is the breathalyzer tube, and within five seconds it'll read out your blood alchohol content level, accurate to within 0.01 BAC -- oh and if that wasn't enough, it doubles as an FM transmitter for your car stereo. That just leaves us with one burning question: will Mr. Steele be sending one to recently DUIed Paris Hilton?

[Via iLounge]

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iBreath, your iPod-powered breathalyzer originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 12 Sep 2006 04:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alcoholbreathalyzerdavid steeleDavidSteeleduiibreathportable audioportableaudioTue, 12 Sep 2006 04:51:00 EST<![CDATA[DoCoMo develops cellphone to test for drunk drivers]]>http://www.engadget.com/2006/06/16/docomo-develops-cellphone-to-test-for-drunk-drivers/http://www.engadget.com/2006/06/16/docomo-develops-cellphone-to-test-for-drunk-drivers/http://www.engadget.com/2006/06/16/docomo-develops-cellphone-to-test-for-drunk-drivers/#commentsNTT DoCoMo has devised a cellphone-based breathalyzer system that'll let bus, taxi, and truck companies test their drivers remotely to see if they've been boozing it up behind the wheel. The system consists of a small breath-alcohol sensor made by Tanita that's attached to one of DoCoMo's FOMA 3G handsets and, unlike similar offerings from LG which are merely for one's own edification, this one will transmit the results to the driver's boss, who can also make sure there's no cheating going on thanks to the phone's handy videophone function.

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DoCoMo develops cellphone to test for drunk drivers originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 16 Jun 2006 20:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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