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[DIY Cellphone has the footprint of an ice cream sandwich, definitely doesn't run ICS (hands-on)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/25/mit-media-lab-diy-cellphone-hands-on/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/25/mit-media-lab-diy-cellphone-hands-on/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/25/mit-media-lab-diy-cellphone-hands-on/#comments

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Building your own wireless communications device isn't for the faint of heart, or the law-abiding -- the FCC tends to prefer placing its own stamp of approval on devices that utilize US airwaves, making a homegrown mobile phone an unlikely proposition. That didn't stop a team at the MIT Media Lab from creating such a DIY kit, however. Meet the Do-It-Yourself Cellphone. This wood-based mobile rig, while it's currently in the prototype phase (where it may indefinitely remain), would eventually ship with a circuit board, control pad, a fairly beefy antenna and a monochrome LCD. Sounds like it'd be right at home at some kid's garage workshop in the early '80s, not showcased at an MIT open house. The argument here is that people spend more time with their phone than with any other device, so naturally they'd want to build one to their liking. Nowadays, folks expect their pocketable handset to enable them to not only place and receive phone calls, but also store phone numbers, offer a rechargeable battery, and, well, in some cases even send and receive email, and surf the web -- none of which are available with such a kit.

The prototype we saw was fully functional. It could place calls. It could receive calls. There was even Caller ID! The phone does indeed feel homemade, with its laser-cut plywood case and a design that lacks some of the most basic gadget essentials, like a rechargeable battery (or at very least some provisions for replacing the 9-volt inside without unscrewing the case). Audio quality sounded fine, and calls went out and came in without a hitch -- there's a SIM card slot inside, letting you bring the nondescript phone to the carrier of your choice. Does it work? Yes. Is it worth dropping $100-150 in parts to build a jumbo-sized phone with a microscopic feature set? No, there's definitely nothing smart about the DIY Cellphone. If you want to throw together your own handset, however, and not risk anyone questioning the legitimacy of your homemade claim, you might want to keep an eye out for this to come to market. The rest of you will find everything you need in the video just past the break. We're just happy to have walked away without any splinters.

Gallery: MIT Media Lab: DIY Cellphone

Continue reading DIY Cellphone has the footprint of an ice cream sandwich, definitely doesn't run ICS (hands-on)

DIY Cellphone has the footprint of an ice cream sandwich, definitely doesn't run ICS (hands-on) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 25 Apr 2012 12:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>callcallingcell phonecell phonescellphonecellphonesDIYdo it yourselfdo-it-yourselfDoItYourselfhands-onkitkitslabmedia labMediaLabMITmit media labMitMediaLabmobilepostcrossphonephonesprojectprojectsprototypesmartphonesmartphonestelephonetelephonesvideoWed, 25 Apr 2012 12:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Motorola HS1101 and MBP2000PU Android Home Phones get examined, detailed by the FCC]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/03/motorola-hs1101-mbp2000pu-android-home-phone-fcc/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/03/motorola-hs1101-mbp2000pu-android-home-phone-fcc/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/03/motorola-hs1101-mbp2000pu-android-home-phone-fcc/#comments ImageWe imagine that the vast majority of Android users have since abandoned or even eliminated landline service, but if you're still tethered to the grid at the homestead, your DECT cordless might as well be running Android. Motorola demonstrated such a concept at an event way back in 2010, and it now looks like the company may finally be readying a pair of production models, dubbed the HS1101 and MBP2000PU Android Home Phones. Based on published user manuals, both of the handsets appear to be virtually identical, with the exception of color scheme -- the HS1101 is covered in a glossy black finish, while the MBP2000PU is decked out in silver and white.

The WiFi-equipped handsets could be running Ice Cream Sandwich (based on a screenshot of the HS1101), and each include a 3.2-inch 400 x 240 LCD, a front-facing camera with video capture, stereo 1.5-watt speakers, microSD storage, along with micro-USB and a standard headphone port. Naturally, you'll be able to download apps (through SlideMe), while some selections, including an Aldiko e-book reader and a Digital Answer Machine come preloaded. Whether or not consumers ever plan to buy another cordless set remains to be seen, but if you're in the market, you might as well hang tight for a Motorola Android Home Phone. Both models have passed through the FCC, so the grueling wait for an ICS-powered DECT cordless may soon come to an end. Jump past the break for a closer look at both models, or hit up the source link to thumb through those meaty manuals.

Continue reading Motorola HS1101 and MBP2000PU Android Home Phones get examined, detailed by the FCC

Motorola HS1101 and MBP2000PU Android Home Phones get examined, detailed by the FCC originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 03 Apr 2012 10:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid 4.0Android Home PhoneAndroid4.0AndroidHomePhonecordlesscordless phoneCordlessPhonedecthome phoneHomePhonehouseholdIce Cream SandwichIceCreamSandwichicslandlinelandlinesmobilepostcrossmotorolamotorola mobilityMotorolaMobilityphonephonestelephonewirelessTue, 03 Apr 2012 10:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple WALT prototype hits eBay, reminds us of a life with landlines]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/11/apple-walt-prototype-telephone-ebay-auction-for-sale/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/11/apple-walt-prototype-telephone-ebay-auction-for-sale/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/11/apple-walt-prototype-telephone-ebay-auction-for-sale/#comments As it turns out, Apple too used to announce products at trade shows... only to never actually ship them. Back in the halcyon days of the early '90s, Apple revealed the WALT (Wizzy Active Lifestyle Telephone) at Macworld Boston, touting a fairly amazing feature set. Things like a touchscreen, handwriting recognition, fax support, an address book, caller ID, online banking and a speakerphone set it apart from the landline devices of its day, and being that it was co-developed with Bell South, it's pretty clear that your pops had his eye one at some point. Those looking to relive the corporate boom of one-nine-nine-to-the-tres can plunk down $8,000 of 2012's dollars at the eBay link below; just don't expect it to work out of the box, okay?

[Thanks, TS]

Apple WALT prototype hits eBay, reminds us of a life with landlines originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 11 Mar 2012 00:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleauctioncommunicationebaymacworldphoneraretelephoneuniquewaltWizzy Active Lifestyle TelephoneWizzyActiveLifestyleTelephoneSun, 11 Mar 2012 00:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Plantronics Clarity Fortissimo speakerphone hands-on (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/13/plantronics-clarity-fortissimo/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/13/plantronics-clarity-fortissimo/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/13/plantronics-clarity-fortissimo/#comments Music aficionados will recognize the term "fortissimo." It's used to signify belting out the tunes as loud as humanly possible, which is exactly what Clarity is hoping to achieve with its speakerphone that uses the name. The Clarity Fortissimo is geared toward those who are mobility-challenged, offering a massively loud 95dB speaker, huge buttons, voice activation, Bluetooth and DECT connectivity, and a large touchscreen display. The Fortissimo offers Plantronics' Vocalyst technology, which has the ability to push emails, messages and even social network updates. It also has a dedicated button that automatically dials Clarity's support center, where a rep can then program the phone remotely for you. Expect to see the Fortissimo available this spring -- we were quoted April / May -- and will retail for $500. We have images and video after the break.

Gallery: Plantronics Clarity Fortissimo hands-on

Continue reading Plantronics Clarity Fortissimo speakerphone hands-on (video)

Plantronics Clarity Fortissimo speakerphone hands-on (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 13 Jan 2012 10:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CESCES 2012Ces2012clarityClarity FortissimoClarityFortissimofeat8374fortissimohands-onphonePlantronicsspeakerphonetelephonevideovocalystFri, 13 Jan 2012 10:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Archos trots out Android-based DECT home phone, 35 Home Connect radio]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/23/archos-trots-out-android-based-dect-home-phone-35-home-connect/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/23/archos-trots-out-android-based-dect-home-phone-35-home-connect/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/23/archos-trots-out-android-based-dect-home-phone-35-home-connect/#comments They're hardly as exciting as the company's two new Android 3.1 tablets, but if you're looking for Android in even more places, look no further. Also being unveiled today is the 35 Home Connect, a self-proclaimed Android web radio that should do wonders by your bedside, or kickin' it on the beach. You heard right -- there's a built-in battery here, as well as WiFi access to over 50,000 web radio stations. You'll also find a touch panel, pre-loaded TuneIn application and an alarm clock function that brings together traffic, weather and whatever's happening in your neck of the woods. Finally, a video chatting app is tossed in for good measure, but it's only useful when your front-facing camera isn't handling baby monitoring duties (yeah, seriously!).

Moving right along, there's the Archos 35 Smart Home Phone, an Android-based landline phone that brings users contact sharing with their Android smartphone, MP3 ringtones, caller photo display as well as access to your current stable of Android apps. In other words, this is likely the only home phone you'll find that can also video call, check your email, look up a topic on Wikipedia and satisfy gramps. The above-mentioned 35 Home Connect should ship this September for $149, while the 35 Smart Home Phone does likewise for $10 more.

Gallery: Archos 35 Smart Home Phone and Home Connect radio

Continue reading Archos trots out Android-based DECT home phone, 35 Home Connect radio

Archos trots out Android-based DECT home phone, 35 Home Connect radio originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 23 Jun 2011 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidArchosArchos 35archos 35 home connectArchos 35 smart home phoneArchos35Archos35HomeConnectArchos35SmartHomePhonebreaking newsdectdect phoneDectPhonehome connectHomeConnectinternet radioInternetRadiophoneradiosmartphonetelephoneweb radioWebRadioThu, 23 Jun 2011 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Telecommunications device for the deaf gets hitched to a rotary phone, hacked to run Zork]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/27/telecommuniations-device-for-the-deaf-gets-hitched-to-a-rotary-p/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/27/telecommuniations-device-for-the-deaf-gets-hitched-to-a-rotary-p/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/27/telecommuniations-device-for-the-deaf-gets-hitched-to-a-rotary-p/#comments In today's episode of "But will it run Zork?" a chap named Ulysses got the vintage game to run on a TDD (telecommunications device for the deaf) -- a project he built to show off at the Bay Area Maker Faire last weekend. In a move we truly respect, he hunted down a rotary phone lifted straight out of the era when Zork was conceived (that would be the late '70s / early '80s). Then, he modified a modem so that the acoustically coupled TDD could be interfaced -- transmitting at a slow 45.5 baud to make it easy for even ponderous readers to keep up, one line at a time on the TDD's narrow display. Once this was sorted, things weren't exactly smooth sailing when Ulysses started fitting the compressed Zork story file into the system. At first, he tried using an Arduino Pro and an Arduino Mega, but found that neither had enough memory to accommodate the compressed Zork story file. Ultimately, he took a different tack and settled on an embeddable FitPC. We'd love nothing more than to see this thing in action, but in lieu of a video we highly suggest carving out a few minutes and perusing Ulysses' photo blog at the source link.

Telecommunications device for the deaf gets hitched to a rotary phone, hacked to run Zork originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 27 May 2011 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ArduinoArduino MegaArduino ProArduinoMegaArduinoProBay Area Maker FaireBayAreaMakerFairedeafDIYFitPcgamehackhard of hearingHardOfHearingMaker FaireMakerFairemodretrorotary phoneRotaryPhoneTDDtelephoneZorkFri, 27 May 2011 10:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Crapgadget: 'blurring the line between comical and offensive' edition]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/30/crapgadget-blurring-the-line-between-comical-and-offensive-ed/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/30/crapgadget-blurring-the-line-between-comical-and-offensive-ed/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/30/crapgadget-blurring-the-line-between-comical-and-offensive-ed/#comments Just because the flow of Crapgadgets has apparently slowed from an outpouring to a mere flood doesn't mean we haven't been dutifully collecting the worst of the bad over the past few months. Without further ado, we present to you the latest edition, complete with a handful of this quarter's most atrocious / splendiferous gadgets. Frankly, it's a chore just deciding where to start -- should we extol the portable speaker kit with an utterly unnecessary Core i5 label on the outside, or give priority to Thanko's heated mousepad / hand-engulfing cat face? On second thought, maybe it's the real wood stick-on that enables every smartphone owner to literally knock on wood whenever the mood strikes. Unfortunately for us, there's also an iPhone 4 steering wheel to consider, not to mention a stick figure speaker with a questionable audio jack and a retrofied telephone with an integrated reading light. Have a peek at each below, and let us know in the poll below which is most abhorrent. And remember, honesty really is the best policy.

Read - Portable speaker kit, Core i5-powered!
Read - Audiobot, who could use a zippered fly
Read - Thanko's cat face / mousepad / warmer
Read - Knock On Wood iPhone stick-on
Read - iPhone 4 steering wheel (with speakers!)
Read - USB retro telephone (with alarm clock!)

View Poll

Crapgadget: 'blurring the line between comical and offensive' edition originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 30 Mar 2011 00:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crapgadgethand warmerHandWarmerretrotelephonethankousbWed, 30 Mar 2011 00:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Alexander Graham Bell's sketchbook reveals ridiculously wonderful imaginings]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/24/alexander-graham-bells-sketchbook-reveals-ridiculously-wonderfu/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/24/alexander-graham-bells-sketchbook-reveals-ridiculously-wonderfu/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/24/alexander-graham-bells-sketchbook-reveals-ridiculously-wonderfu/#comments
The image above is a page from Alexander Graham Bell's sketchbook, a self-portrait from the 1870's, is just one page from the large collection of the inventor's papers, now housed at the Library of Congress. Bell's sketches which document the invention of the telephone are the most fascinating of the lot, and happily, the Library has digitized them and made a large selection of them available online.

Alexander Graham Bell's sketchbook reveals ridiculously wonderful imaginings originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 24 Mar 2011 10:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alexander graham bellAlexanderGrahamBellimageslibrary of congressLibraryOfCongresssketchbooksketchestelephoneThu, 24 Mar 2011 10:16:00 EST<![CDATA[AT&T opens up video archives, shares the history inside]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/19/atandt-opens-up-video-archives-shares-the-history-inside/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/19/atandt-opens-up-video-archives-shares-the-history-inside/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/19/atandt-opens-up-video-archives-shares-the-history-inside/#comments Where can you find Orson Welles, Marconi's daughter, Alexander Graham Bell's grandaughter, and inventors of the transistor and television? You might try To Communicate is the Beginning, a 1976 educational publication tracing the history of electronic communication, which AT&T recently decided to exhume from its archives of Bell Labs material. The 30-minute video's just the first in a series, too, as AT&T's website is already playing host to films about the origins of the laser and integrated circuit too, with more on the way. Find them all at our source link -- you do want to know how your favorite technologies evolved, right?

AT&T opens up video archives, shares the history inside originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 19 Feb 2011 20:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archivearchivesATTBellBell LabsBellLabscommunicationhistoricalhistoryicintegrated circuitIntegratedCircuitlaserlasersradiotelegraphtelephonetelevisionSat, 19 Feb 2011 20:06:00 EST<![CDATA[NetTalk TV to deliver à la carte HD television programming?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/09/nettalk-tv-to-deliver-a-la-carte-hd-television-programming/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/09/nettalk-tv-to-deliver-a-la-carte-hd-television-programming/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/09/nettalk-tv-to-deliver-a-la-carte-hd-television-programming/#comments NetTalk hasn't exactly made it easy for the world to believe in all of its claims, but things are just getting loco at this point. The NetTalk TV has been introduced here at CES, touted as a companion device to the Duo that provides ultra-low cost digital TV service. Reportedly, the bantam box offers HDMI / S-Video / composite outputs, Ethernet and WiFi, and it'll enable consumers to receive only the standard- and high-definition content that they want. According to the company, this allows individuals to detach themselves from the high-priced cable packages that force you to pay for 50 channels (when you only need three), but here's the kicker: there are no details whatsoever provided in the press release after the break. Not even a price. We're told to expect shipments in Q3 of this year, followed by undoubted disappointment as you begin to understand that it won't be NetTalk to finally convert the à la carte dream into reality.

Continue reading NetTalk TV to deliver à la carte HD television programming?

NetTalk TV to deliver à la carte HD television programming? originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 09 Jan 2011 00:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a la carteALaCartecallingcesces 2011ces2011communicationcontenthdtviptvnettalknettalk duonetTALK TVNettalkDuoNettalkTvprogrammingtelephonetelevisiontvvoipwifiSun, 09 Jan 2011 00:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Leadtek AMOR8210 videophone makes US debut at CES]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/04/leadtek-amor8210-videophone-makes-us-debut-at-ces/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/04/leadtek-amor8210-videophone-makes-us-debut-at-ces/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/04/leadtek-amor8210-videophone-makes-us-debut-at-ces/#comments
Even though we're still not convinced we'd ever need a videophone, we'd be remiss if we neglected to tell you that the kids from Leadtek have announced the US launch of the AMOR8210. Already making a pretty big splash in Taiwan, this bad boy features a cordless handset, VoIP and plain ol' telephone support (via respective RJ45 and RJ11 ports), widgets (including audio and video players) and integration with surveillance and health monitoring devices. Pretty, pretty, pretty good, if you ask us. Interested? PR after the break.

Continue reading Leadtek AMOR8210 videophone makes US debut at CES

Leadtek AMOR8210 videophone makes US debut at CES originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 04 Jan 2011 21:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AMOR8210cesces 2011Ces2011cordless phoneCordlessPhonehealthcarelandlineLeadtekLeadtek AMOR8210LeadtekAmor8210multimediasurveillancetelephonevideo phoneVideoPhoneVoIPTue, 04 Jan 2011 21:17:00 EST<![CDATA[Pioneer debuts new range of 'future retro' landlines, but only in Japan]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/03/pioneer-debuts-new-range-of-future-retro-landlines-but-only-i/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/03/pioneer-debuts-new-range-of-future-retro-landlines-but-only-i/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/03/pioneer-debuts-new-range-of-future-retro-landlines-but-only-i/#comments
If you even possess a landline, the phone itself is probably not as awesome looking as it could be. But don't fear! Pioneer will help you change that. Available in Japan and Japan only, the TF-FN2000 is 2.4 GHz cordless phone that comes in red, black, or white. Featuring a backlit LCD for caller ID, voicemail, phone book, and more, this device really has us wishing we knew Japanese. In fact, we just might have to buy a language course or something. Get a closer look after the break.

Continue reading Pioneer debuts new range of 'future retro' landlines, but only in Japan

Pioneer debuts new range of 'future retro' landlines, but only in Japan originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 03 Jan 2011 20:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cordlesss phoneCordlesssPhonehouseholdjapanlandlinepioneertelephoneTF-FN2000TF-FN2020-WTF-FN2025-KTF-FN2027-Rwireless phoneWirelessPhoneMon, 03 Jan 2011 20:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Freebox v6 Revolution set-top box brings calling, TV and gaming together]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/14/freebox-v6-revolution-set-top-box-brings-calling-tv-and-gaming/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/14/freebox-v6-revolution-set-top-box-brings-calling-tv-and-gaming/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/14/freebox-v6-revolution-set-top-box-brings-calling-tv-and-gaming/#comments Pay-TV operators have been tossing out "quadruple play" bundles for the better part of three years now, but we dare say that none of 'em have come close to nailing it like this. France's own Free, a well-known ISP in the nation, has just introduced the Freebox v6 Revolution, a newfangled set-top box designed by Philippe Starck and engineered to handle just about all of your home entertainment needs. It's stuffed with 250GB of hard drive space, an internal 802.11n WiFi module, Blu-ray drive, inbuilt web browser and Intel's Atom CE4100 media processor. It also ships with a motion-sensing remote, and in short, it's designed to provide live / streaming television options, internet (fiber or DSL is supported), gaming (via a streaming service similar to OnLive) and at-home calling to boot. Free's also planning to dabble in mobile telephony starting in 2012, hence the plans for a quadruple play offering in the not-too-distant future. We're told that a joystick (presumably for getting your game on) is thrown in, as are a pair of powerline adapters in order to easily network it through your abode's power network. The Revolution is up for pre-order now, and depending on how long you've had your current Free STB, it could cost as little as €59.99 or as much as €119.99. The "basic" Freebox service will run €29.99, and once Free goes mobile in 2012, you can add a mobile line for another €29.99.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Freebox v6 Revolution set-top box brings calling, TV and gaming together originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 14 Dec 2010 08:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atom 4100Atom4100callingce 4100ce 4100 media processorCe4100Ce4100MediaProcessorconnected hdtvConnectedHdtvcontentcranedectdect phoneDectPhoneeuropefrancefreeboxFreeBox RevolutionFreebox v6FreeboxRevolutionFreeboxV6frenchIliadintelinternationalinternetISPmodemPhilippe StarckPhilippeStarckphoneprogrammingquadruple playQuadruplePlayset top boxset-top boxset-top-boxSet-topBoxSetTopBoxSTBtelephonetelevisiontvv6Tue, 14 Dec 2010 08:53:00 EST<![CDATA[Cobra's PhoneLynx BT 215 Bluetooth adapter keeps your RCA landline handset ringing (in a sense)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/13/cobras-phonelynx-bt-215-bluetooth-adapter-keeps-your-rca-landli/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/13/cobras-phonelynx-bt-215-bluetooth-adapter-keeps-your-rca-landli/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/13/cobras-phonelynx-bt-215-bluetooth-adapter-keeps-your-rca-landli/#commentsSo, your RCA 25055RE1 cordless landline phone is a lot more comfortable to hold upside your cranium for hours on end compared to that [insert smartphone here], but you aren't about to reinstate the phone service that you axed half a decade ago. What's a boy (or girl) to do? Enter Cobra's PhoneLynx BT 215, a Bluetooth-to-home phone adapter that funnels any call you receive on your cellphone to any handset that you connect to the peripheral. Better still, it's capable of distributing calls to multiple landline handsets at once, enabling the whole family to talk to Uncle Rickie when he phones in this holiday season. Oh, and did we mention that it creates a dial tone when you pick up the aforesaid RCA handset while also pushing calls out via your cellphone? You can get your retro on now for around $35.

Cobra's PhoneLynx BT 215 Bluetooth adapter keeps your RCA landline handset ringing (in a sense) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 13 Dec 2010 10:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessoryadapterbluetoothBT 215Bt215callingCobracommunicationsPhoneLynxPhoneLynx BT 215PhonelynxBt215telephoneMon, 13 Dec 2010 10:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Phone glitch lets Kansas residents set off tornado alarms by misdialing]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/26/phone-glitch-lets-kansas-residents-set-off-tornado-alarms-by-mis/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/26/phone-glitch-lets-kansas-residents-set-off-tornado-alarms-by-mis/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/26/phone-glitch-lets-kansas-residents-set-off-tornado-alarms-by-mis/#comments Sounds like fun, no? Find the super-secret phone number that triggers a citywide tornado alarm, dial it up, and watch as Hutchinson, Kansas goes berserk. That's essentially what happened this past week, when an AT&T "software glitch" caused the security systems surrounding the tornado lines to vanish. When the system operates correctly, these sensitive phone numbers can only receive calls from three specific phones; if and when those phones call, alarms are set off to warn residents of impending danger. Due to this here "glitch," all phone numbers were able to dial in, which led to a smattering of false alarms when locals misdialed and accidentally rang the tornado hotlines. Thankfully for everyone involved, the issues have since been fixed, but there's been no word on whether these folks were simply trying to guess Dorothy's unlisted digits.

Phone glitch lets Kansas residents set off tornado alarms by misdialing originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 26 Sep 2010 06:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>attcommunicationglitchkansasphone linephone linesPhoneLinePhoneLinessirentelecommunicationtelecommunicationstelephonetornadoSun, 26 Sep 2010 06:01:00 EST<![CDATA[MagicJack announces software for completely free internet-to-phone calls, places femtocell on hold]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/15/magicjack-announces-software-for-completely-free-internet-to-pho/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/15/magicjack-announces-software-for-completely-free-internet-to-pho/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/15/magicjack-announces-software-for-completely-free-internet-to-pho/#comments For $40 (plus $20 per year), MagicJack's USB VoIP dongle will let you make free unlimited telephone-to-telephone calls, but this week the company's announced MagicTalk, a piece of software for internet-connected phones and computers that will waive even those upfront costs. The Associated Press tracked down one of our favorite ruthless salesmen, MagicJack CEO Dan Borislow, who described a service much like Google Voice and Skype, number portability and all -- except it adds the whole allowing-free-calls-to-regular-ol-telephones bit by charging the companies that carry incoming calls. The service will reportedly be available on Windows and Mac next week, with iOS, Blackberry and Android by October, but speaking of promises, Borislow said plans for the company's legally-ambiguous femtocell are now on hold -- the device can't legitimately muster up enough power without a cellular carrier on board.

In other news, NetTalk announced last week that its pair of competing VoIP boxes now support free video calls. We imagine the timing (and naming) of MagicJack's new service isn't making 'em feel too good.

MagicJack announces software for completely free internet-to-phone calls, places femtocell on hold originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 15 Aug 2010 13:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AndroidappappsBlackBerryDan BorislowDanBorislowfreeGoogle VoiceGoogleVoiceiOSiPadiPhoneMagicJackMagicTalkNetTalkSkypesoftwaretelephonevoipSun, 15 Aug 2010 13:19:00 EST<![CDATA[NetTalk reveals the Duo, we await MagicJack's response]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/15/nettalk-reveals-the-duo-we-await-magicjacks-response/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/15/nettalk-reveals-the-duo-we-await-magicjacks-response/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/15/nettalk-reveals-the-duo-we-await-magicjacks-response/#comments If you've never heard of the NetTalk TK6000, you're certainly not alone -- suffice it to say it's an as-seen-on-TV product that converts a standard ethernet internet connection into a VoIP telephone cord. And to be clear, the new NetTalk Duo doesn't seem to offer anything different than its predecessor, only a shiny bullet case, but that just makes it the perfect salvo across incumbent MagicJack's bow. We can hardly wait to see how the latest chapter in the infinite long distance call saga will play out. However, on the off-chance you've been looking to Fire Your Phone Company(R), don't wait, act now -- peep the press release after the break for your ten percent discount.

Continue reading NetTalk reveals the Duo, we await MagicJack's response

NetTalk reveals the Duo, we await MagicJack's response originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 15 Jul 2010 03:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>duoMagicJackNetTalkNetTalk DuoNettalkDuotelephonetk6000VoIPThu, 15 Jul 2010 03:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Google Voice now open to the American public]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/22/google-voice-now-open-to-the-public/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/22/google-voice-now-open-to-the-public/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/22/google-voice-now-open-to-the-public/#comments Tired of waiting for the invite that'll never arrive? Not so eager to snap up an Android phone just to automatically get ushered into the party? Good news: Google Voice is now open to the US public at large (sorry, everyone else!), enabling everyone who wishes to get a single number to ring all of their phones, have voicemail that acts more like email and send / receive free calls and texts within the US. Currently, Google has over a million active Voice users, and we suspect that figure will skyrocket after today. If you've been ignoring this hoopla until the invite barrier was crushed, feel free to hop on past the break for a video demonstration of what's on offer. Then hit that source link to sign up. Happy calling... callers.

Continue reading Google Voice now open to the American public

Google Voice now open to the American public originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 22 Jun 2010 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabreaking newsBreakingNewscallingcommunicationcommunicationsgoogleGoogle VoiceGoogleVoicemobilepublicsoftwaretelephonevideovoicevoicemailvoipvoip callingVoipCallingTue, 22 Jun 2010 13:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Motorola HS1001 cordless Android phone hands-on]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/03/motorola-hs1001-cordless-android-phone-hands-on/http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/03/motorola-hs1001-cordless-android-phone-hands-on/http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/03/motorola-hs1001-cordless-android-phone-hands-on/#comments Well this is a bit different -- it looks as if the big M is looking to put a little Android (v1.6, if you must know) in the home with this DECT 6.0 phone. Though the device is made by Binatone, the Hong Kong-based company will be selling a $150 Motorola branded version of its cordless phone in the US come this summer. While this isn't the first time we've seen an Android desk phone, this particular one packs WiFi so you can use the 2.8-inch touch display on its back to not only dial up mom, but also surf the web or check email. We did ask if you could make Skype calls on WiFi, but the app won't be preloaded and the phone won't have Marketplace support. That's not to say it doesn't have some intriguing tricks up its sleeve, though -- we were duly impressed with the speaker-equipped charging station, which enables it to blast out your favorite jams from the 70s while docked. It's no Droid or Devour, but it may not be a bad home calling option if you just can't cut ties with your landline. We've got some more pictures in the gallery below as well as some shots of Binatone's future Android tablet, so go on, indulge.

Gallery: Binatone / Motorola Android Home phone hands-on

Motorola HS1001 cordless Android phone hands-on originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 03 Mar 2010 12:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid 1.6Android Home PhoneAndroid1.6AndroidHomePhonebinatoneBinatone Android Home phoneBinatoneAndroidHomePhonecebitcebit 2010Cebit2010featurefeaturedfeaturesgooglehands-onhome phoneHomePhonelandlinephonetelephoneWed, 03 Mar 2010 12:52:00 EST<![CDATA[Sharp crams digiframe into JD-4C1CL/CW telephone]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/02/20/sharp-crams-digiframe-into-jd-4c1cl-cw-telephone/http://www.engadget.com/2010/02/20/sharp-crams-digiframe-into-jd-4c1cl-cw-telephone/http://www.engadget.com/2010/02/20/sharp-crams-digiframe-into-jd-4c1cl-cw-telephone/#comments Face it, kids -- it's tough to make a landline telephone hip in the age of cellular telephony, but somehow or another Sharp has managed to do just that. For the second time in a year, no less. The new JD-4C1CL/CW is a rather typical cordless phone, but the super-dee-duper docking station has a 4.3-inch digital photo frame and 64MB of internal storage space. Beyond that, most everything else is under wraps, but we're told that it'll ship in brown, red and white this April for an undisclosed amount.

Continue reading Sharp crams digiframe into JD-4C1CL/CW telephone

Sharp crams digiframe into JD-4C1CL/CW telephone originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 20 Feb 2010 11:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>digiframedigital framedigital photo frameDigitalFrameDigitalPhotoFramelandlinephonephoto framePhotoFramesharptelephoneSat, 20 Feb 2010 11:59:00 EST<![CDATA[AT&T asks FCC to phase out landline regulations]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/12/31/atandt-asks-fcc-to-phase-out-landline-regulations/http://www.engadget.com/2009/12/31/atandt-asks-fcc-to-phase-out-landline-regulations/http://www.engadget.com/2009/12/31/atandt-asks-fcc-to-phase-out-landline-regulations/#commentsA day without landline phones? Some may say that's inevitable, but it looks like AT&T is now starting to try to speed things up a bit, with it recently responding to an FCC request for comments with a 32-page filing that details its position on the matter. That more or less boils down to two major requests: that the FCC eliminate the regulatory requirements that it support a landline network, and that it provide a firm deadline for phasing it out. To back up that request, AT&T has provided the FCC with a whole host of statistics that paint a bleak picture for landlines, including the fact that less than 20% of Americans rely exclusively on switched-access lines for voice service (though plenty more still use them as their primary voice service), that at least 18 million homes now use a VoIP service, and that those two numbers are fast growing in opposite directions. Needless to say, such a change would have a broad range of regulatory implications, and AT&T isn't providing answers for everything -- like exactly how it expects that last mile of users to transition away from landlines, or how to deal with issues of public safety or those with disabilities.

AT&T asks FCC to phase out landline regulations originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 31 Dec 2009 03:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>attfcclandlinelandline regulationsLandlineRegulationslandlinesphonephone servicePhoneServiceregulationsregulatorytelephonevoipThu, 31 Dec 2009 03:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Chumbophone proves that even Chumby can go retro (and like it)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/12/07/chumbophone-proves-that-even-chumby-can-go-retro-and-like-it/http://www.engadget.com/2009/12/07/chumbophone-proves-that-even-chumby-can-go-retro-and-like-it/http://www.engadget.com/2009/12/07/chumbophone-proves-that-even-chumby-can-go-retro-and-like-it/#comments For the seasoned DIYer, there's hardly anything that can't be done with a set of Chumby Guts. For a seasoned DIYer with a set of Chumby Guts, an old clock, a few brass horns and a Dremel tool, there's absolutely nothing -- save for spare time and determination -- standing between him / her and a homegrown masterpiece such as the one you're peering at above. Etsy member AbrahamBook's latest creation is a WiFi-enabled widget monster that is shoved within a half vintage, half steampunk-styled enclosure. The Chumbophone doesn't actually seem capable of making calls via the integrated horns, but we'd sure love to see a version that was. Not that we're trying to force any ideas down your throat or anything...

Chumbophone proves that even Chumby can go retro (and like it) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 07 Dec 2009 09:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antiquedChumbaphoneChumbophonechumbychumby gutsChumbyGutsdiyetsyhackmodphoneretrosteampunktelephonevintageMon, 07 Dec 2009 09:42:00 EST<![CDATA[Ooma Telo Handset now available, attempts to lure your booze money]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/11/19/ooma-telo-handset-now-available-attempts-to-lure-your-booze-mon/http://www.engadget.com/2009/11/19/ooma-telo-handset-now-available-attempts-to-lure-your-booze-mon/http://www.engadget.com/2009/11/19/ooma-telo-handset-now-available-attempts-to-lure-your-booze-mon/#comments
While some of us weren't totally digging the skin of the Ooma Telo VoIP hub, it's only fair to say that the company has somewhat made up with the release of the seductive Telo Handset. This DECT device will run you $49.99 and will work with up to three other handsets on each Telo (although originally they promised up to six in total). Sure, most of the features can be found on ordinary DECT handsets, but the online phonebook which can be downloaded to the Telo Handset sounds awesome. Oh, and there are a few more handy functions like "Instant Second Line" and a "Do Not Disturb" mode which redirects calls to voicemail, but you'll have to give up $9.99 per month or $119.99 per year for this Ooma Premier service. Yeah, totally not worth it.

Ooma Telo Handset now available, attempts to lure your booze money originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 23:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dectdect 6.0Dect6.0handsetoomaooma handsetooma premierooma teloooma telo handsetooma voipOomaPremierphonetelephonevoipvoip hubThu, 19 Nov 2009 23:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Bang & Olufsen BeoCom 5 landline: all the cool kids have one]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/21/bang-and-olufsen-beocom-5-landline-all-the-cool-kids-have-one/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/21/bang-and-olufsen-beocom-5-landline-all-the-cool-kids-have-one/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/21/bang-and-olufsen-beocom-5-landline-all-the-cool-kids-have-one/#comments

We know what you're thinking: what could be more impressive to your "friends" than an incredibly super sweet landline telephone about 9 years after most people stopped having them? That's right, a landline. Bang & Olufsen's BeoCom 5 is destined to take things to the next level with hot functions like "hold" and the ability to store up to 400 contacts. The BeoCom 5 also boasts a rad looking speaker phone if you want to get a whole group convo going like we did back in junior high. Other good news here is that this baby can handle two separate lines -- in case one is simply not enough. No word on when the newest BeoCom will be unleashed, or how much it will cost, but we're going to guess it won't be cheap.

[Via Acquire Mag]

Filed under:

Bang & Olufsen BeoCom 5 landline: all the cool kids have one originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 21 Oct 2009 01:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actual phoneActualPhoneawesomebandobang and olufsenBANG OLUFSENBangAndOlufsenBangOlufsenbeocombeocom5landlineluxuryphonetelephonetelephonesWed, 21 Oct 2009 01:42:00 EST<![CDATA[Verizon CEO doesn't care about landlines anymore, feels 'liberated' by new outlook]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/17/verizon-ceo-doesnt-care-about-landlines-anymore-feels-liberat/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/17/verizon-ceo-doesnt-care-about-landlines-anymore-feels-liberat/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/17/verizon-ceo-doesnt-care-about-landlines-anymore-feels-liberat/#comments Verizon Communications CEO Ivan Seidenberg isn't too upbeat on the future of landlines, telling the audience at a Goldman Sachs investor conference today that the company is just not interested in telephones connected with wires. The chief exec of one of the nation's biggest telecommunications firms continued with his gospel, saying his "thinking has matured" and that trying to predict when the dwindling landline business will plateau is akin to "the dog chasing the bus." He says the new way of thinking is "liberating," but of course, endeavors like the Hub technically don't count as landlines to the company since it'sVoIP, and the coupled with its continued success as the largest cellular provider in terms of subscriber base, yeah, we're sure it's not too tough a pill to swallow. So how abut ramping up FiOS installations just a wee bit faster, eh Ivan?

Filed under:

Verizon CEO doesn't care about landlines anymore, feels 'liberated' by new outlook originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 17 Sep 2009 20:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>coppercopper linecopper wireCopperLineCopperWirefioshubindustryivan sedenbergIvanSedenbergland lineLandLinemobilephoneseidenbergtele phoneTelePhoneverizonverizon communicationsverizon wirelessVerizonCommunicationsverizonwirelessThu, 17 Sep 2009 20:42:00 EST<![CDATA[Verizon CEO doesn't care about landlines anymore, feels 'liberated' by new outlook]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/17/verizon-ceo-doesnt-care-about-landlines-anymore-feels-liberat/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/17/verizon-ceo-doesnt-care-about-landlines-anymore-feels-liberat/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/17/verizon-ceo-doesnt-care-about-landlines-anymore-feels-liberat/#comments Verizon Communications CEO Ivan Seidenberg isn't too upbeat on the future of landlines, telling the audience at a Goldman Sachs investor conference today that the company is just not interested in telephones connected with wires. The chief exec of one of the nation's biggest telecommunications firms continued with his gospel, saying his "thinking has matured" and that trying to predict when the dwindling landline business will plateau is akin to "the dog chasing the bus." He says the new way of thinking is "liberating," but of course, endeavors like the Hub technically don't count as landlines to the company since it'sVoIP, and the coupled with its continued success as the largest cellular provider in terms of subscriber base, yeah, we're sure it's not too tough a pill to swallow. So how abut ramping up FiOS installations just a wee bit faster, eh Ivan?

Filed under:

Verizon CEO doesn't care about landlines anymore, feels 'liberated' by new outlook originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 17 Sep 2009 20:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>coppercopper linecopper wireCopperLineCopperWirefioshubindustryivan sedenbergIvanSedenbergland lineLandLinephoneseidenbergtele phoneTelePhoneverizonverizon communicationsVerizonCommunicationsThu, 17 Sep 2009 20:42:00 EST<![CDATA[Cloud Telecomputers announces Android-based Glass platform for desk phones]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/20/cloud-telecomputers-announces-android-based-glass-platform-for-d/http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/20/cloud-telecomputers-announces-android-based-glass-platform-for-d/http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/20/cloud-telecomputers-announces-android-based-glass-platform-for-d/#comments It may not be the first to come up with the bright idea of putting Android on a desk phone-esque device, but upstart Could Telecomputers may well be the most ambitious, with it boasting that its new Glass platform "makes the desk phone relevant again," and is "smarter and more powerful than your 'smart cell phone.'" To that end, the company has basically paired a full-fledged, 8-inch Android-based MID with a plain old corded phone, which will let you do things like dial numbers directly from your Outlook address book, pair up a cellphone via Bluetooth and, of course, take advantage of a whole range of Android apps that should put most other internet-connected desk phones to shame. As you probably picked up, however, this is still a platform and not an actual product just yet, but Cloud Telecomputers does have some pretty heavy backers behind it, and it "anticipates" that the first phones should be available sometime in the first quarter of 2010 for between $599 and $699.

[Via PR Newswire]

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Cloud Telecomputers announces Android-based Glass platform for desk phones originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 20 Aug 2009 16:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid desk phoneandroid phoneAndroidDeskPhoneAndroidPhonecloudcloud telecomputersCloudTelecomputersdesk phoneDeskPhoneglassglass platformGlassPlatformphonetelephoneThu, 20 Aug 2009 16:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Sharp's JD-7C1CL/CW pairs a home phone and digiframe in fine fashion]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/19/sharps-jd-7c1cl-cw-pairs-a-home-phone-and-digiframe-in-fine-fas/http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/19/sharps-jd-7c1cl-cw-pairs-a-home-phone-and-digiframe-in-fine-fas/http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/19/sharps-jd-7c1cl-cw-pairs-a-home-phone-and-digiframe-in-fine-fas/#comments
Hey, remember that OpenFrame touchscreen home telephone that we first peeked way back in August of 2008? Seems like O2 and Verizon weren't the only ones looking to jump on that bandwagon, as Sharp has now issued a phone / frame tandem that looks eerily similar. The JD-7C1CL/CW is available in black and white to match the motifs present in 99 percent of pristine suburban domiciles, with the frame packing a 7-inch touch panel (800 x 480) that acts as a status indicator, calendar, clock, address book and (gasp!) photo frame. The phone itself doesn't look to be anything special, though the frame does include a whopping 128MB of internal memory. No word on a price or release date, but really, you shouldn't be considering a "home phone" in 2009 under any circumstances.

[Via Akihabara News]

Filed under: , ,

Sharp's JD-7C1CL/CW pairs a home phone and digiframe in fine fashion originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 Aug 2009 10:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cordless phoneCordlessPhonedigiframedigital photo frameDigitalPhotoFramehome phoneHomePhonejapanjapaneseJD-7C1CLCWlandlinephoneSharptelephoneWed, 19 Aug 2009 10:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Touch Revolution's household Android devices coming this year -- it's Hammer time!]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/23/touch-revolutions-household-android-devices-coming-this-year/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/23/touch-revolutions-household-android-devices-coming-this-year/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/23/touch-revolutions-household-android-devices-coming-this-year/#comments When a former Apple product engineer mixes up some Google-juice with MC Hammer you'd be surprised at what you get. If you guessed a range of household Android devices sporting 4.3- to 10-inch touchscreens, WiFi, and Ethernet connectivity well, that would be weird... but you'd be right. Mark Hamblin, the founder and CEO of Touch Revolution who claims to have worked on the iPhone and iPod touch, breaks down the Touch Revolution product family into three major categories: 1) home control to manage lights, security, heating and ventilation, 2) media control for the TV, stereo, and DVR programming, and 3) home-based smartphones like the NIMble we played with at CES. The first Touch Revolution modules will launch later this year inside a range of devices that can be hand-held, placed on a tabletop, or even embedded in a wall. While not naming names, Hamblin says that the hardware and software will be customized and sold by "companies with major brands" before the end of the year in the "US and elsewhere." As for Hammer, that's hard to say -- but we'd buy pretty much anything he'd like to officially endorse.

Filed under: , ,

Touch Revolution's household Android devices coming this year -- it's Hammer time! originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 23 Jul 2009 08:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidhammerhome automationHomeAutomationmc hammerMcHammerphonetelephonetouch revolutionTouchRevolutionvoipThu, 23 Jul 2009 08:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Engadget's recession antidote: win an AT&T TL92278 DECT 6.0 phone!]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/23/engadgets-recession-antidote-win-a-atandt-tl92278-dect-6-0-phone/http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/23/engadgets-recession-antidote-win-a-atandt-tl92278-dect-6-0-phone/http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/23/engadgets-recession-antidote-win-a-atandt-tl92278-dect-6-0-phone/#comments
This whole global economic crisis, and its resulting massive loss of jobs got us thinking. We here at Engadget didn't want to stand helplessly by, announcing every new round of misery without giving anything back -- so we decided to take the opportunity to spread a little positivity. We'll be handing out a new gadget every day (except for weekends) to lucky readers until we run out of stuff or companies stop sending things. Today we've got an AT&T TL92278 Bluetooth-enabled DECT 6.0 home telephone for those of you not quite ready to kick the landline habit. Read the rules below (no skimming -- we're omniscient and can tell when you've skimmed) and get commenting! Hooray for free stuff!

Big thanks to AT&T for providing the gear!


The rules:
  • Leave a comment below. Any comment will do, but if you want to share your proposal for "fixing" the world economy, that'd be sweet too.
  • You may only enter this specific giveaway once. If you enter this giveaway more than once you'll be automatically disqualified, etc. (Yes, we have robots that thoroughly check to ensure fairness.)
  • If you enter more than once, only activate one comment. This is pretty self explanatory. Just be careful and you'll be fine.
  • Contest is open to anyone in the 50 States, 18 or older! Sorry, we don't make this rule (we hate excluding anyone), so be mad at our lawyers and contest laws if you have to be mad.
  • Winner will be chosen randomly. The winner will receive one (1) AT&T TL92278 Bluetooth-enabled DECT 6.0 home telephone. Approximate retail value is $89.95.
  • If you are chosen, you will be notified by email. Winners must respond within three days of the end of the contest. If you do not respond within that period, another winner will be chosen.
  • Entries can be submitted until Thursday, April 23rd, at 11:59PM ET. Good luck!
  • Full rules can be found here.

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Engadget's recession antidote: win an AT&T TL92278 DECT 6.0 phone! originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 23 Apr 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>attdectdect 6.0Dect6.0giveawayphonerecessionrecession antidoteRecessionAntidotetelephoneTL92278Thu, 23 Apr 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Carriers could be forced by EU to support VoIP services]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/13/carriers-could-be-forced-by-eu-to-support-voip-services/http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/13/carriers-could-be-forced-by-eu-to-support-voip-services/http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/13/carriers-could-be-forced-by-eu-to-support-voip-services/#comments
We've seen it time and time again -- carriers using their power to strong-arm consumers into paying services that could very well be free. Over in Europe, the almighty EU is considering "binding guidelines" that could force wireless operators to allow VoIP services such as Skype to run over their cellular networks. It should be noted that all of this is still very preliminary at the moment, but if the Union can somehow force carriers to support these so-called "innovative services," we could see a very favorable (for consumers, anyway) domino effect. As it stands, each EU country has the ability to decide individually on how they deal with blocked internet services, but obviously an EU-wide mandate would seriously shake things up. Or cause unstoppable riots, one.

[Via Electronista]

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Carriers could be forced by EU to support VoIP services originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 13 Apr 2009 07:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>callingcarrierscellphoneEUeuropeeuropean unionEuropeanUniono2telephonevodafoneVoIPMon, 13 Apr 2009 07:37:00 EST<![CDATA[Carriers could be forced by EU to support VoIP services]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/13/carriers-could-be-forced-by-eu-to-support-voip-services/http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/13/carriers-could-be-forced-by-eu-to-support-voip-services/http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/13/carriers-could-be-forced-by-eu-to-support-voip-services/#comments
We've seen it time and time again -- carriers using their power to strong-arm consumers into paying services that could very well be free. Over in Europe, the almighty EU is considering "binding guidelines" that could force wireless operators to allow VoIP services such as Skype to run over their cellular networks. It should be noted that all of this is still very preliminary at the moment, but if the Union can somehow force carriers to support these so-called "innovative services," we could see a very favorable (for consumers, anyway) domino effect. As it stands, each EU country has the ability to decide individually on how they deal with blocked internet services, but obviously an EU-wide mandate would seriously shake things up. Or cause unstoppable riots, one.

[Via Electronista]

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Carriers could be forced by EU to support VoIP services originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 13 Apr 2009 07:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>callingcarrierscellphoneEUeuropeeuropean unionEuropeanUnionmessagingmobileo2telephonevodafoneVoIPMon, 13 Apr 2009 07:18:00 EST<![CDATA[Screen Grabs: Verizon Hub tells of Serena's galavanting]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/31/screen-grabs-verizon-hub-tells-of-serenas-galavanting/http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/31/screen-grabs-verizon-hub-tells-of-serenas-galavanting/http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/31/screen-grabs-verizon-hub-tells-of-serenas-galavanting/#comments
Screen Grabs chronicles the uses (and misuses) of real-world gadgets in today's movies and TV. Send in your sightings (with screen grab!) to screengrabs at engadget dt com.


We didn't happen to spot Nelly's shiny new BlackBerry Storm on last night's Gossip Girl, but we did see that cast-wide Verizon contract rubbed in our faces again. Verizon's newest non-cellphone (that'd be the Hub) made a brief appearance at the tail end of the episode to inform Lily van der Woodsen that her dearest Serena had reverted to her old carefree ways and hopped a private jet to Spain. Hope she took a worldphone over there, else making that "I'm here!" call is going to be just a wee bit difficult in GSM world.

Gallery: Screen Grabs: Verizon Hub tells of Serena's galavanting

Screen Grabs: Verizon Hub tells of Serena's galavanting originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 31 Mar 2009 15:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuresgossip girlGossipGirlhubphonescreen grabsScreenGrabstelephoneverizonverizon hubVerizonHubvoipTue, 31 Mar 2009 15:56:00 EST<![CDATA[How would you change Verizon's Hub?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/21/how-would-you-change-verizons-hub/http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/21/how-would-you-change-verizons-hub/http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/21/how-would-you-change-verizons-hub/#comments
Ah, the Verizon Hub. A curious beast this day and age, wouldn't you say? For those of you who spent the better part of Super Bowl Sunday setting one of these crazy contraptions up in your domicile, we're eager to hear of your experiences. Has it made you want to throw away your cellphone? Are you already regretting the contract you're now locked into? Are the widgets sufficiently useful? We found ourselves a bit torn as to whether or not the Hub was even a device worth considering given the monthly fee attached, but now that it's sat in your place for well over a month, we're anticipating some better feedback from those who've used it a time or two. Spill your guts below.

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How would you change Verizon's Hub? originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 21 Mar 2009 01:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featureshow would you changeHowWouldYouChangehubHWYClandlinephonetelephoneverizonverizon hubVerizonHubVoIPVoIP phoneVoipPhoneSat, 21 Mar 2009 01:09:00 EST<![CDATA[iriver WAVE-HOME internet phone thingamajig seen in the wild]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/12/iriver-wave-home-internet-phone-thingamajig-seen-in-the-wild/http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/12/iriver-wave-home-internet-phone-thingamajig-seen-in-the-wild/http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/12/iriver-wave-home-internet-phone-thingamajig-seen-in-the-wild/#comments
Much like Sony's Rolly, we're still struggling to piece together exactly how iriver's WAVE-HOME device is supposed to revolutionize our lives. And, you know, figure out what exactly it does. Thanks to a unit floating out in South Korea (in black attire, no less), we're given a decent look of the internet phone / do-it-all home appliance getting unboxed and setup for the first time. Aside from phoning people, we're told that the handset can also double as a TV remote or controller for a radio / music player. We're still eager to get our own palms around one of these curious creations, but for now, you can tap the read link to get a few JPEGs closer.

[Via Portable Alliance]

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iriver WAVE-HOME internet phone thingamajig seen in the wild originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 12 Mar 2009 02:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>in the wildinternet phoneInternetPhoneInTheWildiriveririver waveIriverWavephonepicspicturestelephonevoipwavewave phoneWAVE-HOMEWavePhoneThu, 12 Mar 2009 02:02:00 EST<![CDATA[IPEVO's WiFi handset lets you Skype like it's 1999]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/09/ipevos-wifi-handset-lets-you-skype-like-its-1999/http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/09/ipevos-wifi-handset-lets-you-skype-like-its-1999/http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/09/ipevos-wifi-handset-lets-you-skype-like-its-1999/#commentsNow, this might not seem as futuristic as a videophone, or your own USB powered Star Trek communicator, but if you're in the mood for some VOIP (feeling frisky, are we?) IPEVO's newest is definitely worth a second look. The S0-20 is a stand-alone Skype handset that boasts a 4 hour talk time, backlit keys, a 1.8-inch color LCD, support for both G711 and G729AB codes, and both WEP and WPA/WPA2-PSK encryption -- all in a package that would look at home next to a ten year old pre-pay cell phone. Available now for $129.

[Via TMC]

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IPEVO's WiFi handset lets you Skype like it's 1999 originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 09 Feb 2009 16:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ipevoipevo s0-20IpevoS0-20s0-20skypeskype handsetskype phoneSkypeHandsetSkypePhonetelephonevoipvoip phoneVoipPhonewifi phoneWifiPhoneMon, 09 Feb 2009 16:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek USB Communicator dials up galactic jetsetters]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/06/star-trek-usb-communicator-dials-up-galactic-jetsetters/http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/06/star-trek-usb-communicator-dials-up-galactic-jetsetters/http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/06/star-trek-usb-communicator-dials-up-galactic-jetsetters/#comments
Heads-up, Trekkies! We just stumbled upon the perfect complement to your LCARS-esque touchscreen, and chances are that you won't have to sell off too many Spock action figures in order to procure it. Created by Dream Cheeky, this VoIP / Skype phone is powered by USB and looks pretty much exactly like one of those classic Star Trek Communicators. Best of all, there's a velcro backing in order to mount it up for everyone to see. Because you will want everyone checking this out, right?

[Via OhGizmo]

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Star Trek USB Communicator dials up galactic jetsetters originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 06 Feb 2009 07:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>phoneskypestar trekStarTrektelephoneUSB CommunicatorUsbCommunicatorvoipvoip phoneVoipPhoneFri, 06 Feb 2009 07:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Verizon Hub goes on sale for $199.99 on contract]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/02/verizon-hub-goes-on-sale-199-99-on-contract/http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/02/verizon-hub-goes-on-sale-199-99-on-contract/http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/02/verizon-hub-goes-on-sale-199-99-on-contract/#comments
We had a pretty good idea Verizon's Hub would be loosed on Super Bowl Sunday, and sure enough, the landline killing machine is now available for ordering. The device itself will run you $199.99 on a two-year contract (after all applicable rebates), and if you're still wondering whether or not this thing is even worth your time, why not have a look at our hands-on / impressions?

[Thanks, Carlos]

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Verizon Hub goes on sale for $199.99 on contract originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 02 Feb 2009 04:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>availablemobilenow availableNowAvailableon saleOnSalephonetelephoneverizonverizon hubverizon wirelessVerizonHubverizonwirelessVOIPMon, 02 Feb 2009 04:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Verizon Hub goes on sale for $199.99 on contract]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/02/verizon-hub-goes-on-sale-199-99-on-contract/http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/02/verizon-hub-goes-on-sale-199-99-on-contract/http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/02/verizon-hub-goes-on-sale-199-99-on-contract/#comments
We had a pretty good idea Verizon's Hub would be loosed on Super Bowl Sunday, and sure enough, the landline killing machine is now available for ordering. The device itself will run you $199.99 on a two-year contract (after all applicable rebates), and if you're still wondering whether or not this thing is even worth your time, why not have a look at our hands-on / impressions?

[Thanks, Carlos]

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Verizon Hub goes on sale for $199.99 on contract originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 02 Feb 2009 04:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>availablenow availableNowAvailableon saleOnSalephonetelephoneverizonverizon hubVerizonHubVOIPMon, 02 Feb 2009 04:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Hello Kitty lineman's handset fills a niche: Hello Kitty-lovin' linemen]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/27/hello-kitty-linemans-handset-fills-a-niche-hello-kitty-lovin/http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/27/hello-kitty-linemans-handset-fills-a-niche-hello-kitty-lovin/http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/27/hello-kitty-linemans-handset-fills-a-niche-hello-kitty-lovin/#comments
What do you give the Hello Kitty fan that has everything? Oh, never mind...

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Hello Kitty lineman's handset fills a niche: Hello Kitty-lovin' linemen originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 27 Jan 2009 10:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>handsethello kittyHelloKittylinemanlinemans handsetLinemansHandsettelephonetelephonyTue, 27 Jan 2009 10:35:00 EST