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WSJ: Microsoft testing homegrown handset designs with suppliers, may not see mass production
Until very recently, Microsoft wasn't known for making hardware. Sure, it put out the occasional Zune, but most of the tech running Redmond's desktop and mobile operating systems traditionally comes from its partners -- the Surface being the exception, of course. According to the Wall Street Journal, Microsoft might consider making that exception a rule: some of the firm's part suppliers say that the company is experimenting with a smartphone design of its very own. Folks familiar with the matter say the device in question is between four and five inches, putting it in a sweet-spot that's larger than the iPhone 5, but not quite as daunting as a Samsung Galaxy Note II. Don't get too excited, however, sources aren't sure the if the device will go into mass production, and Microsoft is expectantly tight-lipped about the rumor. Still, we wouldn't scoff at a smartphone with a build quality to match the Surface -- though it might rub some of Redmond's hardware partners the wrong way.
Open source controller framework lets you add the finishing touch
There are plenty of off-the-shelf controllers out there, but what if you fancy something a little more... you? How about fully customized, with a good seasoning of affordability and style? Design student Alex S has built a framework to help you build just that. The units shown above are for DJ-based programs, but you can create interfaces for any software that takes HID or MIDI input, and as they're modular, create endless ultra-custom set-ups. Keen to dismantle any technical barriers, Alex created a step-by-step Instructable, but you'll still need to get your hands dirty with Arduino and some circuitry. The whole project is open source, and while it's a step up from Lego, until we can just print these things, it seems like a great option to us.
DIY arcade stick utilizes wireless Xbox 360 components
It's one thing to conjure up your own controller, but to cut the cabling while you're at just makes the whole package that much sexier. Joining the growing array of wireless (and wired, too) DIY joysticks, DH020's all-white rendition does indeed mimic the Street Fighter edition we've already seen, but the plexi-glass top, white gloss paint job, and the "custom felt material base" just sets this one off. The project utilizes a bubbletop Sanwa stick, six 30-millimeter Sanwa buttons (and two of the 24-millimeter variety), a wireless Xbox 360 controller PCB, and to top it all off, a Play & Charge kit for USB recharging. Yeah, we too wish dearly that we could wrap our paws around this for a good week or two, but at least you can click on through and catch a video demonstration while you debate whether you're going to craft one of your own.[Via Xbox 360 Fanboy]
