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[Twimal the Twitter reader reads your tweets, looks adorable while doing so (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/28/twimal-the-twitter-reader-reads-your-tweets-looks-adorable-whil/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/28/twimal-the-twitter-reader-reads-your-tweets-looks-adorable-whil/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/28/twimal-the-twitter-reader-reads-your-tweets-looks-adorable-whil/#comments If you fancy using Twitter as much as we do, you'll probably scream like a pre-teen when you lay your eyeballs on what toy maker Takara Tomy has conjured up in Japan. Dubbed Twimal, this loveable Pokemon-esque desk companion plugs into your Windows machine via USB and has one reason for its existence -- to read your tweets. Available in blue or white (male or female voice, respectively), these little bots are able to read all sorts of tweets (replies, lists, user-specific, etc.), in what appears to be Japanese only. If you're interested in getting your 140-character messages read in the cutest way possible, look for these toys on digital shelves in Japan on March 31 for ¥2,480 (around 30 bucks). And do yourself a favor; watch the video after the break. You'll thank us later.

Continue reading Twimal the Twitter reader reads your tweets, looks adorable while doing so (video)

Twimal the Twitter reader reads your tweets, looks adorable while doing so (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 28 Mar 2011 07:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bluejapanjapanesereadreadingtakaratakara tomyTakaraTomytomytoytoystweettwimaltwittervideovoicewhiteMon, 28 Mar 2011 07:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Takara Tomy's Ningen Gakki musical toy lets you smack your friends to the beat (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/07/takara-tomys-ningen-gakki-musical-toy-lets-you-smack-your-frien/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/07/takara-tomys-ningen-gakki-musical-toy-lets-you-smack-your-frien/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/07/takara-tomys-ningen-gakki-musical-toy-lets-you-smack-your-frien/#commentsTakara Tomy's Ningen Gakki musical toy lets you smack your friends to the beat (video) If you want to get your conductive body orchestra going, you no longer need 15 bikini models and a bunch of conductive paint. You just need a Ningen Gakki, coming this summer from Takara Tomy. It has four conductive patches on the limbs of its vaguely anthropomorphized shape. If two people each touch one of the patches and then touch each other a circuit is created and a note is played. Up to four people can play songs or drums by clapping hands or, as you can see in the video below, generally slapping each other about. The notes don't appear to get louder the harder the hit, but perhaps that's for the best.

Continue reading Takara Tomy's Ningen Gakki musical toy lets you smack your friends to the beat (video)

Takara Tomy's Ningen Gakki musical toy lets you smack your friends to the beat (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 07 Feb 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>circuitconductivejapanmusicmusic toyMusicToyNingen GakkiNingenGakkitakaratakara tomyTakaraTomytomytoyvideoMon, 07 Feb 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Takara Tomy's toy camera shoots in 3D, costs as much as a grownup 2D camera]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/07/takara-tomys-toy-camera-shoots-in-3d-costs-as-much-as-a-grownu/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/07/takara-tomys-toy-camera-shoots-in-3d-costs-as-much-as-a-grownu/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/07/takara-tomys-toy-camera-shoots-in-3d-costs-as-much-as-a-grownu/#commentsTakara Tomy's toy camera shoots in 3D, costs as much as a grownup 2D camera Sure, we can't all afford the $500 Fujifilm is charging for the Finepix Real 3D W3, but that's no reason to make a "toy" version of the thing and charge $70. Regardless, that's what Takaira Tomy has done, creating a tiny pink (or white) version that does the same basic thing but in a very basic way. Instead of dual 10 megapixel CCDs capable of shooting 720p video you get dual 0.3 megapixel sensors that can't shoot video with any p's at all. Pictures are recorded to SD and must be printed out before being spied through a fold-up viewer. Sure, playing with this could be fun for a little while, but for that price we'd rather just stick with two dimensions and get a basic but full-function compact instead.

Takara Tomy's toy camera shoots in 3D, costs as much as a grownup 2D camera originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 07 Sep 2010 12:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>.3 megapixel.3Megapixel3d camera3dCamerajapantakara tomyTakaraTomytoytoy cameraToyCameraTue, 07 Sep 2010 12:52:00 EST<![CDATA[Takara Tomy Neckphones: wraparound pillow speaker, coming soon to a Skymall near you]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/07/takara-tomy-neckphones-wraparound-pillow-speaker-coming-soon-t/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/07/takara-tomy-neckphones-wraparound-pillow-speaker-coming-soon-t/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/07/takara-tomy-neckphones-wraparound-pillow-speaker-coming-soon-t/#commentsIt may not have the same charm as the Flying Pasties, but Takara Tomy's Neckphones definitely have the "it" factor. Perfect for lounging in a nearby water hole (or watering hole, we suppose), this blow-up neck pillow has a pair of stereo speakers strategically placed near your ear canals, and there's even a pouch that we'd never, ever trust to keep your PMP safe from the liquids below. We suppose you could also take this on a plane, but don't bring your grumbles over here when the gals in 16A and 18B take issue with you blasting Now That's What I Call Music! Volume 11 for the entire coach cabin to hear. We're guessing you'd need to contact an importer to pick one of these up outside of Japan, but you'll have to let go of at least ¥1,800 ($21). We're surmising the hit in respect will be far more detrimental than the MSRP, though.

Takara Tomy Neckphones: wraparound pillow speaker, coming soon to a Skymall near you originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 07 Aug 2010 13:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessoryaudiojapanjapanesemusicneckphoneneckphonespillowpillow speakersPillowSpeakersspeakersstrangeTakara TomyTakaraTomyweirdSat, 07 Aug 2010 13:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Inhabitat's Week in Green: turbines, rubber circuits, and cola-powered cars]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/01/31/inhabitats-week-in-green-turbines-rubber-circuits-and-cola-p/http://www.engadget.com/2010/01/31/inhabitats-week-in-green-turbines-rubber-circuits-and-cola-p/http://www.engadget.com/2010/01/31/inhabitats-week-in-green-turbines-rubber-circuits-and-cola-p/#commentsWe're happy to introduce The Week in Green, a new item from our friends at Inhabitat. Each week they'll recap the week's most interesting green developments and clean tech news for us. Welcome!

Sure, the iPad happened this week, but we also caught sight of several hot green gadgets and clean tech innovations this week that stand to shape the future of green consumer technology.

First off, design star Philippe Starck brought haute design to clean tech with two novel designs for home wind turbines. Starck's high-profile products have made him a household name, so we're interested to see if his latest creations kick off a trend towards "designer" wind power.

We were also impressed by researchers at Princeton University who recently found a way to integrate piezoelectric chips into flexible, durable rubber-based circuits. We've seen piezo power sources before, but applications for the new chips are sure to put bounce in your step: energy generating shoes, movement-powered microsurgical devices, and self-charging pacemakers are right around the corner.

Interest in green transportation is building as Florida rides high on the government's recently announced grants for high speed rail -- the sunshine state is set to blaze a trail with $1.25 billion in funding. And for those with a soda habit, Takara Tomy's cola-powered RC car is one sweet ride. The biobattery-powered car can convert any sugary liquid to energy, so pour in some Jolt and you're good to go.

Finally, love it or hate it -- the launch of Apple's iPad has dominated the newswires all week. While we appreciate the device's toxin-free, recyclable construction and impressive battery life, we have to ask: is it really green?

Inhabitat's Week in Green: turbines, rubber circuits, and cola-powered cars originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 31 Jan 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applecarcolacola-powered carCola-poweredCarhigh speed railHighSpeedRailinhabitatipadphilippe starckPhilippeStarckpiezopiezoelectricrc carRcCartakara tomyTakaraTomyturbineweek in greenWeekInGreenwigwind turbineswindmillWindTurbinesSun, 31 Jan 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[i-SOBOT goes haywire with stash of weapons, instills fear in mere mortals]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/12/29/i-sobot-goes-haywire-with-stash-of-weapons-instills-fear-in-mer/http://www.engadget.com/2009/12/29/i-sobot-goes-haywire-with-stash-of-weapons-instills-fear-in-mer/http://www.engadget.com/2009/12/29/i-sobot-goes-haywire-with-stash-of-weapons-instills-fear-in-mer/#comments We've seen these miniature robots dance and wrestle aplenty, so it's only a matter of time before they pick up weapons and murder us all for crafting their bulky looks and squeaky servos. Fortunately for now, this Takara Tomy i-SOBOT seems to be content enough with demolishing just balloons and polystyrene foam blocks, courtesy of its owner who blessed the bot with a range of "handmade" firearms and edged weapons. Don't be so quick to laugh, though -- that mini mini Gatling gun may be pointed squarely at your face one day. Until then, keep smiling and enjoy the video after the break.

Continue reading i-SOBOT goes haywire with stash of weapons, instills fear in mere mortals

i-SOBOT goes haywire with stash of weapons, instills fear in mere mortals originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 29 Dec 2009 03:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>i-sobotrobotrobot apocalypserobot toyRobotApocalypsetakaratakara tomyTakaraTomytomyTomy TakaraTomyTakaratoytoy robotToyRobotweaponsTue, 29 Dec 2009 03:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Yuruppy virtual pet ready to make you feel guilty for not taking good enough care of it]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/06/yuruppy-virtual-pet-ready-to-make-you-feel-guilty-for-not-taking/http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/06/yuruppy-virtual-pet-ready-to-make-you-feel-guilty-for-not-taking/http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/06/yuruppy-virtual-pet-ready-to-make-you-feel-guilty-for-not-taking/#comments
Takara Tomy's taking the virtual pet territory most famously inhabited by Bandai's Tamgotchis to the next level with Yuruppy. Yuruppy's just like any other fake pet -- you need to slave away to keep it alive for seemingly little reward other than the knowledge that it will "live" to "see" another day. This one's got a touchscreen however, so that you can actually pet your needy little buddy, on top of training and feeding. Fun! Sure, it seems insane to pile fake responsibilities on top of all the actual ones we humans have to deal with... insanely awesome. Regardless, the Yuruppy also comes in kitten and chicken varieties (yeah, we don't know), and it'll be $21 when it's available in Asia, and a deluxe version with a larger screen will run $38.

[Via CNET]

Yuruppy virtual pet ready to make you feel guilty for not taking good enough care of it originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 06 Mar 2009 09:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>childrentakara tomyTakaraTomytouchscreentoysvirtual petVirtualPetFri, 06 Mar 2009 09:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Takara Tomy's remote control robo-Q robot is tiny, incredibly cute]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/26/takara-tomys-remote-control-robo-q-robot-is-tiny-incredibly-cu/http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/26/takara-tomys-remote-control-robo-q-robot-is-tiny-incredibly-cu/http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/26/takara-tomys-remote-control-robo-q-robot-is-tiny-incredibly-cu/#comments
Takara Tomy never fails to impress, and with its latest robot, it's done an excellent job at eliciting "awws." You see, the February-bound robo-Q bipedal robot is about the size of a human thumb, yet its heart and mind are big enough to understand commands via remote control. There's even obstacle recognition software built-in to keep it from toppling over gigantic foreign objects (you know, like toothpicks and push pins), which is awesome enough in and of itself to warrant the ¥3,675 ($42) price tag.

[Via TokyoMango]

Gallery: Takara Tomy's remote control robo-Q robot is tiny, incredibly cute

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Takara Tomy's remote control robo-Q robot is tiny, incredibly cute originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 26 Jan 2009 08:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bidpedalbidpedal robotBidpedalRobotrobo-qrobotTakara TomyTakaraTomytoytoysMon, 26 Jan 2009 08:47:00 EST<![CDATA[Takara Tomy Xiao printer-camera excretes prints]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/27/takara-tomy-xiao-printer-camera-excretes-images/http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/27/takara-tomy-xiao-printer-camera-excretes-images/http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/27/takara-tomy-xiao-printer-camera-excretes-images/#comments
We never knew that cameras could be constipated, nor that excrement could be framed, but apparently Takara Tomy knows better than us.

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Takara Tomy Xiao printer-camera excretes prints originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 27 Dec 2008 15:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adadsadvertisementcomedyfunnyKodakmarketingprinterpromotionTakara TomyTakaraTomyxiaoZINKSat, 27 Dec 2008 15:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Takara Tomy's wall-climbing AeroSpider RC car ships this month]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/10/01/takara-tomys-wall-climbing-aerospider-rc-car-ships-this-month/http://www.engadget.com/2008/10/01/takara-tomys-wall-climbing-aerospider-rc-car-ships-this-month/http://www.engadget.com/2008/10/01/takara-tomys-wall-climbing-aerospider-rc-car-ships-this-month/#comments
We came for the car, we stayed for the promoter. Takara Tomy's previously announced AeroSpider RC car, which mystically scales walls and cruises upside-down, is finally shipping this month in Japan. Cool though that may be, the real news here is the overgrown 4-year old used to show off just how amazing this minuscule vehicle truly is. Head on past the break to see what we mean -- trust us, we wouldn't lead you on like this for nothing.

[Thanks, Clyde]

Continue reading Takara Tomy's wall-climbing AeroSpider RC car ships this month

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Takara Tomy's wall-climbing AeroSpider RC car ships this month originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 01 Oct 2008 18:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aerospiderrcrc carRcCarrelease dateReleaseDateremote controlRemoteControlshipshipsshp dateShpDatetakara tomyTakaraTomytomytoyWed, 01 Oct 2008 18:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Jinsei Game of Life pedometer makes you exercise to play]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/21/jinsei-game-of-life-pedometer-makes-you-exercise-to-play/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/21/jinsei-game-of-life-pedometer-makes-you-exercise-to-play/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/21/jinsei-game-of-life-pedometer-makes-you-exercise-to-play/#comments
Directly rewarding efforts with results, now that's the way to get someone moving. As we've seen time and time again, providing a clear, undiluted motivator is a perfect way to make fitness a top priority in life, and that's exactly what Takara Tomy is hoping to achieve with its pocket-friendly Jinsei Game of Life pedometer. Essentially, this device is a portable version of the famed Game of Life board game, but users are purportedly not allowed to take a turn unless they take 300 steps first. Additionally, two players can take on one another via the "communication mode," but there's a good chance the most chiseled among you will take home the gold regardless of luck. Out this month in Japan for ¥3,675 ($34).

[Via CScout Japan]

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Jinsei Game of Life pedometer makes you exercise to play originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 21 Jul 2008 09:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>exercisefitnessgamegame of lifeGameOfLifejapanjapaneseJinseiJinsei Game PuchiJinseiGamePuchipedometerTakara TomyTakaraTomytoyMon, 21 Jul 2008 09:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Takara Tomy's RPG Piggy Bank: level up by saving up]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/06/21/takara-tomys-rpg-piggy-bank-level-up-by-saving-up/http://www.engadget.com/2008/06/21/takara-tomys-rpg-piggy-bank-level-up-by-saving-up/http://www.engadget.com/2008/06/21/takara-tomys-rpg-piggy-bank-level-up-by-saving-up/#comments
Now here's a novel concept. Takara Tomy's BankQuest is half piggy bank, half old school RPG. Essentially, gamers / penny pinchers can purchase items to help them fend off pixelated ogres and the like by saving more money. The more coinage that gets deposited, the better the journey becomes. So, do you get some kind of prize when you cash it all out to buy your mum something nice, or what?

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Takara Tomy's RPG Piggy Bank: level up by saving up originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 21 Jun 2008 07:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gamepiggy bankPiggyBankrpgtakara tomyTakaraTomytomytoytoysSat, 21 Jun 2008 07:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Pictures galore from ROBO-ONE 13 competition in Japan]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/03/27/pictures-galore-from-robo-one-13-competition-in-japan/http://www.engadget.com/2008/03/27/pictures-galore-from-robo-one-13-competition-in-japan/http://www.engadget.com/2008/03/27/pictures-galore-from-robo-one-13-competition-in-japan/#comments
The always jam-packed ROBO-ONE competition in Japan was more heated than ever this year, with bi-ped robots tackling others and ripping them limb from limb. Okay, so maybe that's somewhat of a stretch, but you can rest assured some serious throw downs, um, went down. Interestingly enough, we heard that an i-SOBOT competition was also included (infighting, anyone?), and that the Maru family's King Kizer took home the gold. That's all well, fine and good, but we know what you're after -- take a (long) look at the hundreds of photos waiting in the read link below.

[Via MAKE]

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Pictures galore from ROBO-ONE 13 competition in Japan originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 27 Mar 2008 09:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>i-SOBOTpicturesROBO-ONE 13Robo-one13takara TOMYTakaraTomyTOMYtoytoysThu, 27 Mar 2008 09:11:00 EST<![CDATA[Baby Climo air purifier is adorable, possibly deadly]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/01/29/baby-climo-air-purifier-is-adorable-possible-deadly/http://www.engadget.com/2008/01/29/baby-climo-air-purifier-is-adorable-possible-deadly/http://www.engadget.com/2008/01/29/baby-climo-air-purifier-is-adorable-possible-deadly/#comments
If you're not totally swayed by the evidence that certain air purifiers cause harmful levels of ozone emissions, why not put your money where your mouth is and stick one by your infant? These Baby Climo units from Takara Tomy filter out bacteria, mold, and odors, all while using just a tiny amount of power -- and looking like tiny little ozone-spewing aliens. Japan-only, but it looks like importers have 'em for the brave at $229.

[Via Popgadget]

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Baby Climo air purifier is adorable, possibly deadly originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 29 Jan 2008 19:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>air purifierAirPurifierbaby climoBabyClimotakara tomyTakaraTomyTue, 29 Jan 2008 19:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on with battling i-SOBOTs]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/01/08/hands-on-with-battling-i-sobots/http://www.engadget.com/2008/01/08/hands-on-with-battling-i-sobots/http://www.engadget.com/2008/01/08/hands-on-with-battling-i-sobots/#comments
While browsing the monstrosity that is CES 2008, we happened upon a pair of i-SOBOTs attempting to utterly demolish each other. Was there really any other choice but to stop and snap a gallery's worth of pics to prove it?

Gallery: Hands-on with battling i-SOBOTs

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Hands-on with battling i-SOBOTs originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 08 Jan 2008 17:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CESces 2008Ces2008featureshands-oni-sobotTakara TomyTakaraTomytomyTue, 08 Jan 2008 17:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Takara Tomy's Rhythmbits do a little dance]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/10/01/takara-tomys-rhythmbits-do-a-little-dance/http://www.engadget.com/2007/10/01/takara-tomys-rhythmbits-do-a-little-dance/http://www.engadget.com/2007/10/01/takara-tomys-rhythmbits-do-a-little-dance/#comments
Takara Tomy's Walkiebits sure caused quite a stir when they first landed a few years back, and now the firm is cranking out another variation that's sure to be a holiday favorite. The slew of new Rhythmbits arrive in a variety of vivid colors, measure in at just 1.85-inches in length, sport interchangeable shells and bust a plethora of moves when they hear music. These little bundles of fun are set to take Japan by storm later this week for ¥1,575 ($14) apiece.

[Via NewLaunches]

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Takara Tomy's Rhythmbits do a little dance originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 01 Oct 2007 21:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>japanRhythmbitstakara tomyTakaraTomytomytoytoysMon, 01 Oct 2007 21:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Introductory video shows off i-SOBOT's features]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/09/25/introductory-video-shows-off-i-sobots-features/http://www.engadget.com/2007/09/25/introductory-video-shows-off-i-sobots-features/http://www.engadget.com/2007/09/25/introductory-video-shows-off-i-sobots-features/#commentsWe know, you're actively looking for ways to stay calm and patiently await the arrival of your US-bound i-SOBOT, so we're thrilled to pass along an introductory video to tide you over. The clip goes through and lists everything that comes bundled in with the bot itself, and the animated creature also shows off a few moves, phrases and modes. Granted, we hold a special place in our heart for any miniature mech designed to handle full-fledged somersaults and shamelessly rock out with an air guitar, but we're pretty sure you'll enjoy the vid, too. Go on, it's waiting after the break.

Continue reading Introductory video shows off i-SOBOT's features

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Introductory video shows off i-SOBOT's features originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 25 Sep 2007 08:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>humanoidi-sobotisobottakara tomyTakaraTomytomytoyvideoTue, 25 Sep 2007 08:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Japan's Segnity: the talking TV]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/09/20/japans-segnity-the-talking-tv/http://www.engadget.com/2007/09/20/japans-segnity-the-talking-tv/http://www.engadget.com/2007/09/20/japans-segnity-the-talking-tv/#comments
If you've ever dreamed of a cute little television which would speak to you (and we're pretty sure you have), you're in luck. Thanks to E-Revolutiona and Takara Tomy, that dream is now a reality. The two companies have gotten together and produced a 2.7-inch, QVGA TV called the Segnity which runs on AAA batteries or USB power, features a 1seg tuner (a a mobile terrestrial digital audio / video / data broadcasting service in Japan), and... talks to you. Apparently, the little display (which comes in black or white) will asking you things like, "Are you leaving already?" when you attempt to switch it off. No word on whether it whispers subliminal messages to you while you sleep, or threatens to kill you if you return it -- but we can certainly hope. Available at the end of September for about ¥10,000 (or $86). Check the video after the break to see the annoying device in action. [Warning: read link not translated]

[Via Akihabara News]

Continue reading Japan's Segnity: the talking TV

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Japan's Segnity: the talking TV originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 20 Sep 2007 12:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1sege-revolutionaportableqvgasegnitytakara tomyTakaraTomytalking televisiontalking tvTalkingTelevisionTalkingTvtelevisionThu, 20 Sep 2007 12:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Takara Tomy's i-SOBOT available for pre-order in US]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/09/17/takara-tomys-i-sobot-available-for-pre-order-in-us/http://www.engadget.com/2007/09/17/takara-tomys-i-sobot-available-for-pre-order-in-us/http://www.engadget.com/2007/09/17/takara-tomys-i-sobot-available-for-pre-order-in-us/#comments
We knew it wouldn't be long, but we weren't counting on being able to pre-order Takara Tomy's i-SOBOT in America today. Of course, we aren't kvetching or anything, but Amazon is now accepting orders for the creature here in the US of A, and the asking price is at the low end of what we were bracing for. So go on, secure your place in line for $299.99 -- it ought to ship real soon.

[Via I4U News, thanks Luigi]

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Takara Tomy's i-SOBOT available for pre-order in US originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 17 Sep 2007 21:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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We're not exactly sure how much we trust i-SOBOT's MySpace page, but if you're a believer, this creature will be headed to America real soon. Interestingly, it purports that the primary reason for making the leap to the US is to "study our culture," which is likely a suave way of suggesting that its totally scoping out our defenses as the clan back home develops a sufficient takeover strategy. Nevertheless, word on the street has this bad boy landing stateside before Christmas for $300 - $350, so there's still a few months left to prepare for the seemingly inevitable invasion.

[Via Gearlog]

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Takara Tomy's i-SOBOT headed stateside? originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 17 Sep 2007 06:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Yeah, we've got a soft spot for all things Transformers, and while Takara Tomy's Transformers MP3 player isn't the most advanced DAP on the block, the fun factor is undeniable. Thankfully, the folks over at PrimeDiary were able to wrangle one of these bad boys up for themselves and snap a few photographs. Needless to say, we're envious, but go on and click through for a couple more shots of the MP3 player fanboys just have to have.

Continue reading Takara Tomy's Transformers MP3 player gets photographed

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Takara Tomy's Transformers MP3 player gets photographed originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 21 Aug 2007 12:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Takara Tomy's been known to offer up a few oddities, and while the UMINE projector (shown after the jump) may not be the most cockamamie device to escape its labs, it does reek of something sold on a shameless late-night infomercial. Regardless, this portable toilet, er, mood projector reportedly beams images of beach scenes, waterscapes, and various other soothing atmospheres onto your ceiling or wall, which apparently helps you to divert your attention from the demands of reality (or yearn for a vacation). Of course, we've all ideas that this thing doesn't really turn your entire room into a theoretical paradise as the images so perfectly depict, but it might not be a half bad way to zone out for just $84.

[Via AkihabaraNews]

Continue reading Takara Tomy's UMINE projector induces R&R

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Takara Tomy's UMINE projector induces R&R originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 12 Aug 2007 03:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atmopsheremoodprojectorrelaxrelaxationtakara tomyTakaraTomyumineSun, 12 Aug 2007 03:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Air Guitar Pro makes air guitar slightly less fake]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/06/21/air-guitar-pro-makes-air-guitar-slightly-less-fake/http://www.engadget.com/2007/06/21/air-guitar-pro-makes-air-guitar-slightly-less-fake/http://www.engadget.com/2007/06/21/air-guitar-pro-makes-air-guitar-slightly-less-fake/#comments
If wildly gesticulating to your Pantera records didn't seem "realistic" enough, toymaker Takara Tomy should be able to help. Like the bastard child of Guitar Hero and those keychains you bought as a kid that make explosion noises, this handheld device works by allowing you to press chord buttons on its fretboard and then strum your fingers across IR sensors in the neck. If you're not sure of your soloing abilities, you can play along to preloaded tracks like Walk This Way or Smoke on the Water. Available on July 25th for around $27.

[Thanks, Veronica B.]

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Air Guitar Pro makes air guitar slightly less fake originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 21 Jun 2007 23:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>air guitarair guitar proAirGuitarAirGuitarProtakara tomyTakaraTomytoysThu, 21 Jun 2007 23:04:00 EST<![CDATA[TakaraTomy's Issho Ni Nenne puts baby to sleep, forever]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/03/19/takaratomys-issho-ni-nenne-puts-baby-to-sleep-forever/http://www.engadget.com/2007/03/19/takaratomys-issho-ni-nenne-puts-baby-to-sleep-forever/http://www.engadget.com/2007/03/19/takaratomys-issho-ni-nenne-puts-baby-to-sleep-forever/#comments
TakaraTomy won't be happy until their robots can raze raise our children. Their latest is the ¥5,229 ($45) Issho Ni Nenne (pictured on the left) manufactured in collaboration with Disney. The plush toy features a digital audio player loaded with womb sounds. That's right, apparently an internal microphone was stuffed into a living womb while music played in the room. Just put baby on a bender of sloshing fluids, heartbeat, and muffled music and he'll be out faster than you can say "pass the Thunderbird." And what happens when baby wakes to find he's been duped by a giant mouse? No worries, a "baby mood switch" will sense the babies cries and generate an audible "curiosity trigger" to make baby forget why he was crying in the first place. Another cocktail of womb music and he's back to sleep. Feed, cuddle, repeat. Magic.

[Via Digital World Tokyo]

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TakaraTomy's Issho Ni Nenne puts baby to sleep, forever originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 19 Mar 2007 09:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Issho Ni NenneIsshoNiNennetakaratakaratomytomyMon, 19 Mar 2007 09:48:00 EST<![CDATA[Takara Tomy's Dacky the Healing Partner robotic dog]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/02/03/takara-tomys-ducky-the-healing-partner-robotic-dog/http://www.engadget.com/2007/02/03/takara-tomys-ducky-the-healing-partner-robotic-dog/http://www.engadget.com/2007/02/03/takara-tomys-ducky-the-healing-partner-robotic-dog/#comments
They've already laid claim to "the world's smallest robot" title (sort of) so why not go hog wild and snap up "the world's cutest robot" while they're at it, yeah? 'Cause really, how are you going to get much better than Dacky here, with those big expressive puppy dog eyes and six internal sensors for interacting with his doting human companion? Sure, Dacky has nothing on Pleo for actual robotic complexity, but Dacky can also "learn" up to 650 words in Japanese, after starting off with mere barking. He can ask you about your day, wish you a happy birthday and sing along at karaoke. No word on price, or if Takara Tomy will be shipping this one over to the States, but perhaps we just wouldn't be able to handle this much cute -- it's for our own good.

Update: Tomy let us know it's actually "Dacky" not "Ducky". Alright, sure thing.

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Takara Tomy's Dacky the Healing Partner robotic dog originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 03 Feb 2007 11:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Now this is what we've been waiting for ever since Takara and TOMY joined forces; a robot! Temporarily dubbed Micromachine, this 5.9-inch tall, 0.66-pound programmable robot is a prototype of the mass produced bipedal 'bot due for release in March 2007. For less than ¥40,000 (about $349) you'll get a fully tricked-out model with Bluetooth and camera modules. Details are sketchy at this point and anything could happen between now and product launch anyway. And since this is Tomy and Takara, we mean anything.

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TakaraTomy's Micromachine to terrorize creepy anime dolls originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 05 Jul 2006 08:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animebluetooth robotBluetoothRobotmicromachinerobottakaratomyWed, 05 Jul 2006 08:55:00 EST<![CDATA[More info on TakaraTomy's luxe nano channel audio player]]>http://www.engadget.com/2006/04/13/more-info-on-takaratomys-luxe-nano-channel-audio-player/http://www.engadget.com/2006/04/13/more-info-on-takaratomys-luxe-nano-channel-audio-player/http://www.engadget.com/2006/04/13/more-info-on-takaratomys-luxe-nano-channel-audio-player/#comments
TakaraTomy is forging ahead with production of the nano channel, the merged company's high-end, super-deluxe digital audio player. The flash unit, due out in Japan this July, comes in sizes ranging from a capacious 128MB to an absolutely massive 1GB, and features a groundbreaking 1.2-inch display that can actually be used to display video! Not only that, but you can actually play your music on this gadget for six full hours on a single battery charge. It even comes in red, blue and silver. This marvel of modern technology, not surprisingly, goes for a premium price: ¥9,800 ($82) for the 128MB version. Okay, we're done. Oh, one other thing worth mentioning: TakaraTomy is launching a web site where customers can download animations to play on that 1.2-inch screen. We assume they'll be able to squeeze all of 30 seconds worth of vid onto the 128MB version.

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More info on TakaraTomy's luxe nano channel audio player originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 13 Apr 2006 13:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cheap overpriced junkflashmp3nano channelportable audioPortableAudiotakaratakaratomytomyThu, 13 Apr 2006 13:35:00 EST