Engadget

DIY password dongle logs you in, saves you from RSI (video)

Terrence O'Brien — Mon, 05 Mar 2012 20:50:00 EST

Any of you who have spent time in corporate America know that companies can be pretty paranoid about your passwords. Change them every three months, have a minimum of one upper case and one lower case letter, one number, one special character and be at least 12 characters long. We've even seen requirements for how many characters must be different from one password to the next. Joonas Pihlajamaa apparently got tired of trying to keep up and built himself a USB key, based around an ATtiny85, that automatically inputs a password for him when plugged into a computer and can even generate a new one with just a few key presses. You can see it in action after the break or hit up the source to learn how to build your own.

Continue reading DIY password dongle logs you in, saves you from RSI (video)

DIY password dongle logs you in, saves you from RSI (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 05 Mar 2012 20:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Toshiba trots out TransMemory-EX USB 3.0-compliant flash memory

Darren Murph — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 10:00:00 EST

It seems like just yesterday that Tosh outed its original TransMemory lineup... ah, who are we kidding? 2007 was about a century ago. Flashbacks aside, Toshiba America Electronic Components (TAEC) has announced that it'll be demonstrating the new TransMemory-EX series of USB flash memory products here at CES. The new sticks are compliant with USB 3.0 standards, with initial storage capacities set for 32GB and 64GB. The new kit uses Toshiba's DDR NAND, offering maximum data transfer rates of 220MB/sec on the read side and 94MB/sec on the writes. For those keeping score, that's 22 times and 18 times faster than the company's prior models, respectively. We're told that the new products can transfer 25GB of video in around five minutes, which would take the prior model around a half-hour. Mum's the world on commercial availability, but you can find the press release just after the break.

Continue reading Toshiba trots out TransMemory-EX USB 3.0-compliant flash memory

Toshiba trots out TransMemory-EX USB 3.0-compliant flash memory originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 09 Jan 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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ADATA S101 flash drive brings USB 3.0 speeds, shrugs off shocks and splashes

Mat Smith — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 13:17:00 EST

USB flash drives may not be the hottest tech hardware out there, but that doesn't mean they can't look good. ADATA's latest thumb drive refresh packs the same military-spec rough and tumble credentials of last year's S007, but this time it's guarding some USB 3.0 goodness. While the design of the S107 is nigh-on identical to its predecessor, it's now capable of read speeds of up to 100MB per second. The rubberized storage sticks, available in red and blue, will be available in 8GB, 16GB and 32GB sizes, although ADATA is still keeping schtum on pricing and release dates.

Continue reading ADATA S101 flash drive brings USB 3.0 speeds, shrugs off shocks and splashes

ADATA S101 flash drive brings USB 3.0 speeds, shrugs off shocks and splashes originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 01 Dec 2011 13:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ask Engadget: best rugged (but tiny) USB flash drive?

Darren Murph — Sat, 12 Nov 2011 22:34:00 EST

We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget inquiry is coming to us from Chris, who seems to be looking for the world's toughest (and smallest) USB flash drive. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com.

"I'm looking for a good USB flash thumb drive that I can put on my keychain. I'd like one that is rather small in physical size, but, more importantly, can take a beating; especially at the spot where it connects to a keychain. Thank you."

This guy? If not him, what? Help a brother out in comments below!

Ask Engadget: best rugged (but tiny) USB flash drive? originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 12 Nov 2011 22:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Debunk: Lion USB sticks are not yet available

Brian Heater — Thu, 04 Aug 2011 15:55:00 EST

Apple clearly considers its new App Store-based distribution model one of the biggest advances in Lion, and to the company's credit, we found the whole thing to be quite painless. But physical media devotees needn't worry too much -- the company quietly announced at launch that the latest version of OS X will also be available on a USB key, for the lofty price of $69 -- which, incidentally, still requires Snow Leopard, unlike what has been previously reported. Word hit today that the company has finally issued the flash drive version of the software, information gleaned from an internal document reportedly leaked by AppleCare. We have it on good authority, however, that the drives mentioned in the document are not, in fact, the aforementioned sticks. Rather, the "recovery media" discussed is actually a restoration tool for AppleCare employees, used to fix faulty systems. We hate to be the burster of bubbles, but it seems that the App Store-impaired will still have to wait until later this month to get their hands on the $70 Apple dongle.

Debunk: Lion USB sticks are not yet available originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 04 Aug 2011 15:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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PQI USB 3.0 flash drive is world's smallest, easiest to misplace

Zach Honig — Mon, 09 May 2011 10:54:00 EST

Storage in the cloud has limited the appeal of previous-generation flash drives, but until we can beam 32GB video clips across the web in less than a minute, there's always room for a USB 3.0 "traveling disk" on our key rings. Especially when it's smaller than a key. The PQI U819V measures just 3.15cm long, but ships with a keyring and attached cap, so at least its accessories will be nearby when it gets misplaced in your desk drawer. We're still waiting on pricing and availability information, but we do know that storage capacity ranges from 4GB to 32GB, and the drive is backwards-compatible with USB 2.0 ports. PQI says the drive's cap also doubles as a cell phone ornament, but if you need a square silver USB cap to dress up your mobile, you may want to redirect some cash from your flash drive fund to upgrade your cell.

Continue reading PQI USB 3.0 flash drive is world's smallest, easiest to misplace

PQI USB 3.0 flash drive is world's smallest, easiest to misplace originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 09 May 2011 10:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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USB 3.0 shocker! Supersonic Magnum thumb drive rocks 200MB/s read times, sure to be rather pricey

Joseph L. Flatley — Fri, 04 Mar 2011 12:34:00 EST

You thought the 70MB/s write speeds were wild? The kids at Patriot are making the scene at CeBIT with the successor to the Supersonic USB thumb drive we first saw at the tail end of last year, and it's putting its old man to shame. The Supersonic Magnum series, sporting capacities up to 128GB, boasts a single eight channel controller with 200MB/s read and 110MB/s write speeds. And it will fit in your hip pocket! Release date TBA, and we can only imagine it will cost you a pretty Deutschmark.

USB 3.0 shocker! Supersonic Magnum thumb drive rocks 200MB/s read times, sure to be rather pricey originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 04 Mar 2011 12:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ask Engadget: best high-capacity USB thumb drive?

Darren Murph — Fri, 04 Feb 2011 22:12:00 EST

We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget question is coming to us from Jakob, who needs a huge (speaking of capacity, not of physical size) USB thumb drive for reasons known only to him. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com.

"I want to replace my old 4GB USB stick with a new one. It should be at least 16GB, fast, and it can't look awful, either. Oh, and not too pricey."

Brevity. Jakob has it. Here's hoping you've got a favorite flash drive suggestion to toss down in comments. Go!

Ask Engadget: best high-capacity USB thumb drive? originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 04 Feb 2011 22:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Lexar intros JumpDrive S70, V10 and bacterial-shielding S50 USB keys

Darren Murph — Thu, 06 Jan 2011 09:00:00 EST

Another day at CES 2011, another release from Lexar Media. This go 'round, the memory outfit is dishing out a three-pack of JumpDrives, with the S70, S50 and V10 all seeing significant redesigns and subtle enhancements to make 'em their own men. The S70 touts a retractable connector design and gives users the ability to create multiple password-protected area (deemed 'Encrypted Vaults'); they'll ship in 4GB, 8GB, 16GB, 32GB and 64GB sizes, but pricing remains a mystery. Moving on, the bacteria-hating S50 ships with a layer of Microban antimicrobial protection, which is said to resist the growth of mold on its 4GB, 8GB, 16GB, 32GB and 64GB models. Somewhat gross to ponder, but what else is there to think on when no MSRPs are handed out? Lastly, the V10 boasts a translucent cap and will ship in a variety of colors / sizes. The whole crew should hit retail in Q1 2011, and the release that says as much is after the break.

Continue reading Lexar intros JumpDrive S70, V10 and bacterial-shielding S50 USB keys

Lexar intros JumpDrive S70, V10 and bacterial-shielding S50 USB keys originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 06 Jan 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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SanDisk reveals $1500 128GB Extreme Pro CF card, Ultra / Cruzer Edge USB drives

Darren Murph — Wed, 05 Jan 2011 22:00:00 EST

The world's fastest high-capacity CompactFlash card? Yes, please! SanDisk has just taken the CF game to an entirely new level, doubling the capacity of its current highest Extreme Pro offering by dishing out a 128GB model here at CES. The Extreme Pro is definitely the card of choice for the high-speed cameras here at Engadget HQ, and for those who've outgrown their twin 64GB setup within their D3S, you can soon pop in a pair of these bad boys for a nominal fee. The card touts performance as high as 100MB/sec (write), a Power Core controller and a UDMA-7 interface, perfectly suited for capturing hours of 1080p footage. Oh, and speaking of that nominal fee -- it's expected to hit retail "later this year" for $1499.99. Yeah, a grand and a half. But hey, you get what you pay for. In less enticing news, a pair of new flash drives are also being launched this evening, the SanDisk Ultra and Cruzer Edge. The Ultra offers transfer rates as high as 15MB/sec, ships in capacities ranging from 8GB to 32GB and will cost between $44.99 and $109.99. The Cruzer Edge reaches from 2GB to 16GB and will set you back between $12.99 and $79.99. Check out the full releases after the break, and though we shouldn't need to advise you, we'd recommend you start pinching those ~~pennies~~ dimes soon.

Gallery: SanDisk reveals $1500 128GB Extreme Pro CF card, Ultra / Cruzer Edge USB drives at CES 2011

Continue reading SanDisk reveals $1500 128GB Extreme Pro CF card, Ultra / Cruzer Edge USB drives

SanDisk reveals $1500 128GB Extreme Pro CF card, Ultra / Cruzer Edge USB drives originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 05 Jan 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Isabella Products' Mini USB stick connects unconnected digital photo frames

Darren Murph — Wed, 05 Jan 2011 09:00:00 EST

Passed on Isabella Products' Vizit digital photo frame? 'Tis a shame, really. But hey, if you were one of the millions gifted with a lackluster, non-connected digiframe over the past few years, at least the aforesaid company is giving you a way to make things right. The outfit's newly launched Mini is one special USB key, embedded with an AT&T 3G SIM and tailor made to provide cellular connectivity to dormant frames. The key is linked to one's VizitMe content management service, and users will be able to email photos directly or have the device extract content from Photobucket and LIFE.com; once received, owners will see new images pop up on any frame that accepts USB keys. Furthermore, these same emailed images can be viewed on USB-equipped monitors and televisions. The company's planning to ship the Mini in Q2 of this year for an undisclosed rate, but naturally, we're more interested in the potential unadvertised capabilities. An off-contract, fee-free USB key with an AT&T SIM card within? Sounds like we're just a hack or two away from the most beautiful mobile broadband card this world has ever seen.

Continue reading Isabella Products' Mini USB stick connects unconnected digital photo frames

Isabella Products' Mini USB stick connects unconnected digital photo frames originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 05 Jan 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Kingston's DataTraveler Mini Fun USB flash drives: they're small and thrilling

Darren Murph — Mon, 13 Dec 2010 21:21:00 EST

Tired of lugging around that boring flash drive? Kingston feels your pain, and it's hoping to add a fair amount of "pizazz" and "spice" to your mobile storage needs. One look at the new DataTraveler Mini Fun G2 all but confirms that there's oodles of joviality brimming beneath the colorful plastic, with a trio of hues to choose from (based on model). These guys can also be connected together for kicks and giggles, with 2GB, 4GB and 8GB models available to bring smiles to the faces of those you know and love. Pricing is set for £4.58 ($7.26), £5.04 ($7.99) and £9.00 ($14) from least capacious to most, with no surcharge to be placed on your favorite color -- in other words, bonus fun is provided gratis. Beat that.

Gallery: Kingston's DataTraveler Mini Fun USB flash drive

Continue reading Kingston's DataTraveler Mini Fun USB flash drives: they're small and thrilling

Kingston's DataTraveler Mini Fun USB flash drives: they're small and thrilling originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 13 Dec 2010 21:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Patriot intros Supersonic USB 3.0 flash drive, milks 100MB / sec from a single chip

Sean Hollister — Sat, 11 Dec 2010 03:31:00 EST

At present, there seem to be three strategies to embracing the potential of USB 3.0 -- go all out with an external SSD, introduce a hulking RAID-on-a-stick, or settle for a single-chip USB key with ho-hum maximum read/write speeds of roughly around 80MB / sec and 60MB / sec. There are a number of these barely-better-than-USB-2.0 flash drives floating about, but Patriot decided not to settle for that -- its new Supersonic flash drive uses the mythical "quad channel" technology (and a native USB 3.0 controller) to eke out some extra speed. That allows Patriot to beat down the USB 2.0 straw man with 70MB / sec writes and 100MB / sec reads, and possibly justify a pricing premium if the company can't manufacture them on the cheap. If the Supersonic sounds like the best of all worlds for your portable data, you'll find it in 32GB and 64GB configurations starting Q1 2011. No word on price quite yet.

Patriot intros Supersonic USB 3.0 flash drive, milks 100MB / sec from a single chip originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 11 Dec 2010 03:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Infinitec Infinite USB Memory Drive review

Sean Hollister — Thu, 25 Nov 2010 17:16:00 EST

The idea behind Infinitec's Infinite USB Memory Drive is actually quite straightforward, but we've found that when we tell friends and acquaintances about the unit, it often boggles their minds. So, we'll try to keep it real simple: This red plastic stick is a 802.11b/g/n WiFi radio disguised as a USB flash drive. And when we say "disguised", we're not just talking about the stick's size, but its functionality as well -- it lets you wirelessly transfer files direct from your WiFi-equipped laptop's hard drive to just about anything with a USB port. Stick it into an Xbox 360 or set-top-box, for instance, and it pretends to be your average thumbdrive, but with access to theoretically anything you choose. Sounds like a fantastic idea, but does it really work? Find out after the break in our full review.

Gallery: Infinitec Infinite USB Memory Drive, hands-on

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Infinitec Infinite USB Memory Drive review originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 25 Nov 2010 17:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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LaCie serves up SSD-based USB 3.0 FastKey, charges a pretty penny for it

Darren Murph — Thu, 18 Nov 2010 21:18:00 EST

Get it straight, vaquero -- this ain't your mum's flash drive. LaCie's newest diminutive slab of aluminum is a solid state drive for your keyring, boasting transfer rates as high as 260MB/sec, 30/60/120GB capacities, a rugged metal casing and a USB 3.0 interface. You'll also get AES 256-bit encryption and 4GB of online-accessible Wuala storage, but you best not lose it. LaCie will be dinging your credit card for $149.99, $249.99 or $479.99 from least capacious to most, so you may want to take out an insurance policy on this guy before taking it out into the wild. Safety first and all.

Gallery: LaCie USB 3.0 FastKey

Continue reading LaCie serves up SSD-based USB 3.0 FastKey, charges a pretty penny for it

LaCie serves up SSD-based USB 3.0 FastKey, charges a pretty penny for it originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 18 Nov 2010 21:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Super Talent intros 8GB USB 3.0 Express Duo flash drive for $14

Darren Murph — Tue, 02 Nov 2010 06:58:00 EST

Pricing pressure, anyone? Super Talent has just put a serious kink in the plans of storage makers hoping to milk their dwindling USB 2.0 flash drive inventories into the holiday season, as the introduction of the USB 3.0 Express Duo line sets a new bar for MSRPs on these things. Expected to ship later this month, these critters are available in 8GB and 16GB capacities, with each offering USB 3.0 speeds, USB 2.0 backwards compatibility and price points of $14 and $29, respectively. Who doesn't love a good stocking stuffer, anyway?

Continue reading Super Talent intros 8GB USB 3.0 Express Duo flash drive for $14

Super Talent intros 8GB USB 3.0 Express Duo flash drive for $14 originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 02 Nov 2010 06:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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ADATA's S007 military spec USB flash drive is designed for the battlefield

Darren Murph — Wed, 13 Oct 2010 18:14:00 EST

It doesn't boast the eSATA / USB 3.0 capabilities of the N909, but ADATA's new S007 is easily the tougher of the two. Designed to be fully compliant with US MIL-SPEC standards, this new USB key is available in capacities up to 32GB and should provide careless handlers with "unrivaled digital data protection from both impacts and electric shocks." Both of 'em (it's available in green and red) are wrapped in a rubber coating, and transfer at USB 2.0 speeds (upwards of 30MB/sec on the read side and 8MB/sec on the write side), but sadly, there's no mention of a price or release date.

Continue reading ADATA's S007 military spec USB flash drive is designed for the battlefield

ADATA's S007 military spec USB flash drive is designed for the battlefield originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 13 Oct 2010 18:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Keyport Slide adds new feather to its cap with USB key prototype

Vlad Savov — Tue, 21 Sep 2010 05:21:00 EST

If you looked at the blade-based key organizer known as the Keyport Slide and thought "this thing could really do with an integrated USB flash drive," you were not alone. The company's currently teasing a few images of a new 4GB accessory, which uses the same attachment as its key blades to slot in and out of that metallic shell. Even more tantalizing, this is said to be only one of a number of new accessories in development for the pricey but versatile door opener. Are these guys trying to subtly start a war with Switzerland or what?

[Thanks, Declan]

Keyport Slide adds new feather to its cap with USB key prototype originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 21 Sep 2010 05:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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LaCie MosKeyto streamlines portable storage, invites bad puns

Vlad Savov — Fri, 03 Sep 2010 05:43:00 EST

LaCie's keeping up its eccentric branding strategy today with this pest-inspired new USB key. Measuring a mere 20mm in length and 10 grams in weight, the MosKeyto is ready to all but disappear once you plug it into your computer, and it'll outdo its physical counterpart by not only sucking data down but pushing it back out should you want it. Basically, it's yet another miniaturized USB drive and can be owned today, starting at $18 for the 4GB version. 8GB will set you back $28 and there's a 16GB variant to come as well. Got all that? Good. Now buzz off.

Gallery: Lacie MosKeyTo press images

Continue reading LaCie MosKeyto streamlines portable storage, invites bad puns

LaCie MosKeyto streamlines portable storage, invites bad puns originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 03 Sep 2010 05:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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LaCie's XtremKey: it's pretty rugged, we guess

Paul Miller — Tue, 13 Jul 2010 23:57:00 EST

OK GUYS, WE GET IT. Sheesh, it's like they think we're a bunch of klutzes or something. Sure, there was that one time with the garbage disposal... one time. But after that... alright, the time with the mud, and the thing with the ocean. Oh, and when we dropped 2GB of Word documents into a black hole. Still, we hardly deserve to be treated like children. LaCie has stepped up the condescension to new levels with its XtremKey, a drive that's waterproof up to 100 meters, temperature proof from -58 degrees Fahrenheit to +400, and resistant to 16 foot drops. This ruggedness is accomplished by screwing the USB drive into a 2mm thick metal pipe that can withstand the pressure of a 10 ton truck rolling over it. Like that would ever happen that one time. The drive ranges in capacity from 8GB to 64GB, and will be out in August for some exorbitant, as-yet-undisclosed cost. Check out a needlessly abusive video of the drive after the break.

Gallery: LaCie's XtremKey press shots

Continue reading LaCie's XtremKey: it's pretty rugged, we guess

LaCie's XtremKey: it's pretty rugged, we guess originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 13 Jul 2010 23:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Crapgadget: frightening party favors edition

Darren Murph — Sat, 26 Jun 2010 11:38:00 EST

There are a few things in life you can count on. And we mean really count on. You may argue "taxes," but as one Wesley Snipes has so clearly proven, even those can be evaded given the right motive. Instead, we're arguing that the next installment of Crapgadget is indeed more likely to be unavoidable, evidenced by the fact that you're reading this right now. What's up in today's best of the worst? Oh, just a USB arm wrestler, a knockoff Land Rover mobile phone, a faux gold World Cup trophy storage device and a handgun that's anything but. And that's just for starters. Dive in below if you've got a stomach of steel and a thing for sick jokes, and be sure to cast your vote for which turns your evil smile up the most.

Read - USB arm wrestlers
Read - Land Rover phone
Read - Transformers USB drive
Read - World Cup Trophy USB drive
Read - USB handgun
Read - USB itch removal instrument

View Poll

Crapgadget: frightening party favors edition originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 26 Jun 2010 11:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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SanDisk ships first licensed Xbox 360 USB flash drive

Darren Murph — Wed, 05 May 2010 14:07:00 EST

Seems that April 6th ship date that GameStop posted back in March was a bit off, but hey -- beggars can't be choosers, yeah? SanDisk has just announced that it's now shipping the planet's first licensed Xbox 360 USB flash drive, which just became useful for easily transferring gamertags, game saves, map packs, Arcade downloads, etc. from one console to another. The device is pre-configured for plug-and-play, and SanDisk is even throwing in a one-month subscription to Xbox LIVE Gold for good measure. Naturally, you'll be paying a premium for that Microsoft seal of approval, with the 8GB unit boasting an MSRP of $34.99 and the 16 gigger going for $69.99 (or £29.99 and £51.99 respectively in the UK). Hang tight if you can, though -- we get the impression that loads more are on the way from every other storage outfit, and you know what competition does to pricing. Don't you?

Continue reading SanDisk ships first licensed Xbox 360 USB flash drive

SanDisk ships first licensed Xbox 360 USB flash drive originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 05 May 2010 14:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Switched On: MyDitto NAS has some key issues

Ross Rubin — Sat, 10 Apr 2010 17:50:00 EST

Each week Ross Rubin contributes Switched On, a column about consumer technology.

There are many devices that allow one to remotely access your digital content at home when you're on the road. These include low-cost remote access appliances like the PogoPlug, midrange NAS storage devices such as Netgear's Stora, and expensive but powerful solutions that cater to the technically inclined, such as HP's MediaSmart products powered by Windows Home Server.

Now, however, Dane Elec -- best-known for selling USB flash drives and memory cards at retailers such as Target -- has jumped into the shared storage space with an offering called MyDitto. The late entrant seeks to overcome some of the setup and access complexities of other products in its class, bringing network storage beyond the early adopters. While MyDitto incorporates a number of good ideas, though, its advantages help only in a limited number of NAS usage scenarios.

Continue reading Switched On: MyDitto NAS has some key issues

Switched On: MyDitto NAS has some key issues originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 10 Apr 2010 17:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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GameStop listing shows SanDisk's Xbox 360-branded USB drives at outrageous prices

Sean Hollister — Tue, 30 Mar 2010 22:02:00 EST

GameStop listings are about as accurate as a 14th century musket -- especially when it comes to release dates -- but that didn't keep news site GameSpot from capping the above screenshot. As you can no doubt read, the picture suggests that SanDisk will indeed release a specially-branded 8GB USB flash drive alongside the Xbox 360's USB storage update -- but at twice the normal price for a drive of that capacity. Our red hot rage at this injustice is tempered somewhat knowing there's no concrete proof the $40 figure is correct, but knowing SanDisk (and, frankly, Microsoft's own propensity for overpriced storage) we wouldn't be surprised to see several green thumbdrives pulling a premium at retail next week. Once more for the record: as long as it's larger than 1GB, ~~smaller than 16GB~~ and you format it using the Xbox 360 menus, any USB flash drive will do.

Update: According to Major Nelson, it seems that USB flash drives larger than 16GB will work with the Xbox 360 update, but only 16GB of the drive's space will be available for the Xbox 360 to use. Thanks, willowtwf!

GameStop listing shows SanDisk's Xbox 360-branded USB drives at outrageous prices originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 30 Mar 2010 22:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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MyDitto is the cloud-accessible NAS for people who don't know what NAS stands for

Tim Stevens — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 10:19:00 EST

There are plenty of ways to get your datas online, more coming online by the moment, but if you're the type who doesn't know your WAN port from a MAC address you're probably looking for the most straightforward solution. As of now the myDitto from Dane-Elec looks about the simplest. It's a dual-bay device that can manage RAID 0 or 1, also sporting a pair of USB ports for when internal storage just won't cut it and DLNA and iTunes support for media accessibility. If you don't know what any of that means here's the important bit: to access that storage all you need to do is connect it into your network and then plug a myDitto USB key into any internet-attached machine. Then, hey-presto, your storage will be accessible and you won't have to configure a thing. In practice these fire-and-forget sort of implementations can often create more headaches than they solve, but if this one works it could be an ideal way for non-networkers to get networked. Mind you, at $249 for a 1TB model that simplicity will come at a premium when it launches in March.

MyDitto is the cloud-accessible NAS for people who don't know what NAS stands for originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 06 Jan 2010 10:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Verbatim Tuff-Clip flash drives for the adventure nerd

Nilay Patel — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 19:58:00 EST

We can't honestly say we've ever had a flash drive go bad because it wasn't tough enough, but apparently there's a market of globe-trotting ex-military jungle assassins out there big enough for Verbatim to join in with the Tuff-Clip USB stick. (Actually, it's TUFF-CLIP, because all-caps names are water-resistant to 100 feet.) Of course, you'll have to pay for those rugged good looks: the 4GB version is $30, while the 8GB is $50. Not exactly a steal when you consider this Hello Kitty stick we've been using cost us nothing more than our pride.

Filed under: Storage

Verbatim Tuff-Clip flash drives for the adventure nerd originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 10 Aug 2009 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Solid Alliance's $10,000 Mnemosyne USB drive is built for style, not convenience

Vlad Savov — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 05:47:00 EST

The Greek goddess of memory, Mnemosyne, would surely be proud of this product bearing her name. For starters, it comes at a price few mere mortals can afford and is couched within an extravagant all-aluminum body. The puzzle cube certainly provides a ceremonial feel to accessing the data within, and makers Solid Alliance are pitching it as a luxurious receptacle for your most treasured memories. Yes, under all the sheen, you are still looking at 16GB of standard issue flash memory, but can we really put a price on mythology-infused style?

Filed under: Storage

Solid Alliance's $10,000 Mnemosyne USB drive is built for style, not convenience originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 02 Jul 2009 05:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Canon EOS 5D Mark II flash drive: just 21.1MP shy of awesomeness

Darren Murph — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 09:23:00 EST

You could say that this is the perfect USB flash drive for existing EOS 5D Mark II owners. We'd argue, however, that this is the perfect USB flash drive for those looking to just live vicariously while not shattering the bank. 'Course, $129.99 for a 4GB USB key is pretty absurd, but at least that gets you Live View and a 1080p movie mode. Er, wait...

[Via Zungua]

Filed under: Digital Cameras, Storage

Canon EOS 5D Mark II flash drive: just 21.1MP shy of awesomeness originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 27 Mar 2009 09:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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LaCie's itsaKey, iamaKey and PassKey USB drives now available

Darren Murph — Sat, 14 Mar 2009 07:43:00 EST

Remember those so-very-key-like USB keys we peeked from LaCie earlier this month? Yeah, those bad boys are now priced and available for shipment. Designed by 5.5 Designers, the itsaKey, iamaKey and PassKey USB drives are now available to order, with the first two sporting up to 8GB of internal capacity and the PassKey boasting a built-in microSD card slot. As for pricing? Try starting points of $14.99, $17.99 and $9.99 in order of mention.

LaCie's itsaKey, iamaKey and PassKey USB drives now available originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 14 Mar 2009 07:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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USB cake design worst birthday surprise in history

Darren Murph — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 07:01:00 EST

Imagine this -- you walk into a custom confectionery and inform the design team that you want the image on a USB flash drive made onto a very special cake. In fact, you even leave the flash drive with them so they can really look it over. Sure, you'd think they would get to frost-brushing that unicorn flying through a rainbow right onto the cake, but apparently the artists in question had other ideas. Namely, creating a photo-perfect replica of a Lexar flash drive on the surface of what appears to be an otherwise delicious pile of sugar. Seriously. Too bad about that black icing, birthday boy.

[Via UberReview]

Filed under: Misc. Gadgets, Storage

USB cake design worst birthday surprise in history originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 03 Feb 2009 07:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Verbatim trots out OS X-friendly 8GB Store 'n' Go retractable USB drive

Darren Murph — Tue, 06 Jan 2009 15:28:00 EST

Verbatim doesn't really make a lot of racket during the year, but come Macworld / CES, it pulls out all of the stops. Alongside a new family of delectable ExpressCard SSDs, the company is also introducing an 8GB Store 'n' Go Retractable USB Drive (Windows version shown) that caters to the OS X crowd. Verbatim's pushing two main selling points here: for starters, the capless, retractable design means that your USB socket will always be covered, and secondly, the password controlled access to the drive's private zone plays nice within an OS X environment. The half-ounce device is expected to land on store shelves in just a few weeks, though it'll cost you a stiff $59.99 if you're looking to pay MSRP.

Filed under: Storage

Verbatim trots out OS X-friendly 8GB Store 'n' Go retractable USB drive originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 06 Jan 2009 15:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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SanDisk showcases new Ultra Backup / Cruzer USB flash drives

Darren Murph — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 22:32:00 EST

Rather than simply adding a new capacity option or throwing another adjective on the end (i.e. Ultra, Xtreme, Gnarly, etc.), SanDisk is actually launching something in the flash drive sector that's worth paying attention to. The Ultra USB Backup is hailed as the planet's first USB key with simple backup software activation at the touch of a button, and with capacities up to 64GB, we'd say this is a pretty decent option for keeping your digital paraphernalia backed up sans an external HDD. In related news, the outfit has redesigned the long-standing Cruzer to fall more in line with today's trends, effectively stripping the retro pastel hues and adding in "iconic new design language developed by global innovation firm frog design." The new bunch is expected in stores this April, with prices ranging from $24.99 to $99.99 for the Cruzer and $39.99 to $199.99 for the Ultra Backup. Full release is after the break.

Continue reading SanDisk showcases new Ultra Backup / Cruzer USB flash drives

Filed under: CES, Storage

SanDisk showcases new Ultra Backup / Cruzer USB flash drives originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 05 Jan 2009 22:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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EMTEC's Kooky Klickers-based USB drives bring a smile to anyone's face

Darren Murph — Tue, 30 Dec 2008 10:02:00 EST

Think you're having a rough day? Did you get a placard with instructions to the exit rather than a bonus check this week? We know, life's a little rough right now, but how on Earth can you look at the bunch pictured above and not crack at least a smidgen of a grin? Based on the insanely popular Kooky Klickers brand, the Kooky USB Drives are modeled after the widely recognized character pens and are being pushed by EMTEC. Curiously, there's no mention at all of a price, and odder still, not a peep on capacity choices; in other words, you should be fully prepared to pay too much for too little when your kid starts to wailing.

Filed under: Storage

EMTEC's Kooky Klickers-based USB drives bring a smile to anyone's face originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 30 Dec 2008 10:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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CANAL+ KEY provides pay-TV reception of French networks

Darren Murph — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 16:25:00 EST

Forget those OTA tuners that only pick up what's widely distributed for free; the CANAL+ KEY can handle that and more. Developed in conjunction with DiBom, the device -- hailed as the planet's first USB key-sized DTT HD decoder -- enables the reception of French pay-TV programs (SD and HD), 18 free DTT channels and even the premium channel CANAL+ HD. The key is equipped with two small antennas and can provide viewing enjoyment to any USB-equipped PC. Regrettably, there's no price / availability date mentioned, but yet again, we're amazed at how quickly France is becoming Europe's beacon of HD light.

[Via TechDigest]

Filed under: Tuners, OTA

CANAL+ KEY provides pay-TV reception of French networks originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 09 Dec 2008 16:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Crapgadget: not-even-suitable-for-gag-gifts edition

Darren Murph — Sat, 25 Oct 2008 10:00:00 EST

We all know the holiday season is coming up, but even if you're on the hunt for a gag gift for your fav-o-rite prankster, we can't not recommend the following turds enough. Up first is the absolutely unbelievable Night Sweat Alarm watch, which actually wakes you up if it detects that you're perspiring. Why? Legend has it that no one knows. Moving on, we've got the USB Volcano -- a perfect mix of your first-grade science project and your college-era infatuation with all things USB. Things start to get really absurd when viewing the self-explanatory Glass of Milk Light and the Retro Handy Handset, but even those are potentially topped in stupidity by the Air Flow Mouse and cake-shaped USB drives. Have a look at each below before casting your vote, but keep that barf bag handy.

Read - Sweat Alarm watch
Read - USB Volcano
Read - Glass of Milk Light
Read - Retro Handy Handset
Read - Air Flow Mouse
Read - Cake-shaped USB drive

View Poll

Filed under: Misc. Gadgets, Peripherals

Crapgadget: not-even-suitable-for-gag-gifts edition originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 25 Oct 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Solid Alliance's 2GB USB Skull Ring helps RPG players look tough

Thomas Ricker — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 04:51:00 EST

We'll be straight with you: there's no single expression of bad-assery more potent in the polyhedral kingdom of nerdistan than the USB Skull Ring. Brought to you by Solid Alliance, the 2GB USB drive feels right at home transferring files to your PC or at the end of a fist, deftly buried into the gut of a Moradin dwarf. Your choice for $145, no seriously. One more hair-free shot after the break.

Continue reading Solid Alliance's 2GB USB Skull Ring helps RPG players look tough

Filed under: Storage

Solid Alliance's 2GB USB Skull Ring helps RPG players look tough originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 21 Oct 2008 04:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Incrudo 8GB flash drive reeks of expensive

Darren Murph — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 18:22:00 EST

Don't spaz out or anything, but that thing you're peering at above actually isn't a small flask of cologne. No, no -- it's an 8GB USB drive, and it's one of the most expensive you can buy. Reportedly built with titanium, the drive is water-resistant, crush-proof and fancied up further with a single red ruby. Sure, it's 21,750 rubles ($837), but dollars to donuts they'd trade you one for a sure-to-be-authentic iPhone.

[Via Gadgets-Weblog]

Filed under: Storage

Incrudo 8GB flash drive reeks of expensive originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 08 Oct 2008 18:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Corsair's new 64GB Flash Voyager USB drive going for $199

Darren Murph — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 06:56:00 EST

Progress is beautiful, is it not? Just shy of two years ago, Corsair blew minds with its ruggedized 16GB Flash Voyager, built to withstand all but the nastiest of drops and hold oodles of quarterly reports for a mere $299. Earlier this year, we saw the capacity double up and the price fall to just $229. Now, the bootable drive has been bloated further with a full 64GB of space, only this one's available right now for just a buck ninety-nine. Dollars to donuts we'll see a 128GB version in under 12 months for around $150, but don't let that sway your purchasing decision or anything.

Read - Corsair release
Read - On sale for $199.99

Filed under: Storage

Corsair's new 64GB Flash Voyager USB drive going for $199 originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 01 Oct 2008 06:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sony reveals limited edition 007 VAIO TT, USB Micro Vault and Reader Digital Book

Darren Murph — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 23:31:00 EST

In a move to pump up the impending theater debut of Quantum of Solace, Sony is simultaneously opening up a new promotional game and introducing a few new pieces of limited edition gear. Obviously, we're a touch more concerned with the kit than the game, so we'll skip over those details and head right to the meat of it. The outfit will be offering up 100 limited run VAIO TT laptops that are emblazoned with a 007 logo on the palm rest and a matching leather protection case. Additionally, a Special Edition Bond bundle for the Reader Digital Book will feature an embossed cover with a 007 logo and coupon codes for free downloads of Ian Fleming's novels Casino Royale and Quantum of Solace. Lastly, we've got the 007 USB Micro Vault in 8GB and 16GB flavors, both of which come pre-loaded with the Quantum of Solace trailer and other miscellaneous "bonus content." Wild guesses as to price / release dates are being accepted now.

Filed under: Displays, Laptops, Storage

Sony reveals limited edition 007 VAIO TT, USB Micro Vault and Reader Digital Book originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 29 Sep 2008 23:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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TrekStor's stylish USB stick doubles as bottle opener

Darren Murph — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 17:01:00 EST

Is this a bottle opener that also functions as a flash drive, or is this a USB stick that just so happens to double as a bottle opener? While pundits debate that one, we'll step in to tell you that this brilliant creation from the minds of TrekStor includes a solid, brushed aluminum housing, USB 2.0 connectivity and the ability to play nice with any major operating system. Regrettably, it looks as if this one will launch in Europe alone next month for anywhere between €6.99 ($10) and €49.99 $71) depending on size (1/2/4/8/16GB capacities). Please, upload responsibly.

[Via CNET]

Filed under: Peripherals, Storage

TrekStor's stylish USB stick doubles as bottle opener originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 15 Sep 2008 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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