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Boeing 747-8, 777 to join 787 in support for in-flight cellphone use and WiFi, like it or not
The more cynical among us would argue that allowing cellphones in-flight is only a guarantee of an even more unpleasant trip, at least for anyone wanting a distraction-free cabin. There must still be a few optimists: Boeing is promising that future production runs of the 747-8 and 777 will have the necessary support for in-flight cellphone use, live TV and internet access that comes through either headrest screens or WiFi. Aircraft with the upgrade should roll off the production lines before the end of 2013, and they'll be following a slight change to the 787 later this year that makes the technology support a common option. Some of us may wind up reaching for the earplugs in countries where regulators approve in-air wireless, but there's definite upsides for all but the biggest curmudgeons -- Boeing's moves could lead to more ubiquitous in-flight WiFi next year, on top of ready-made wireless media streaming due in 2014.
Audiovox Android headrest pairs DVD player with app delights
Yes, more Android-powered accessories. This time it's a headrest from Audiovox, which connects through WiFi networks and provide in-car time-killing for passengers in the back. It'll generally require you to tether to your smartphone for the privilege -- unless you like idling outside your home or office. But once you're connected, expect to get the requisite social networking, web browsing and app joy of the Google OS. Alongside the DVD (not Blu-ray) player, there's also an SD slot, HDMI and USB port, although the company's keeping schtum on exactly which version of the OS it'll arrive with. Anyone who needs more Android in their life can peruse the press release below.
Headrest mount for iPad by ViewSticks
Hitting the road this holiday season with the kids? Already have a back seat mount for your iPhone but not for your iPad? You may want to check out this iPad Headrest Mount from ViewSticks. The mount attaches to the back of the front seat headrests and turns your iPad, iPod touch, or iPhone into an entertainment system for the car. Easily removable to store or move into another car, the iPad Headrest Mount kit consists of 2 metal stands, 4 rubber bands, 2 suction cups, and 1 Storage Bag and is available now for US$19.95. BMW recently announced their own iPad integration that doesn't look any better than this solution -- and I imagine it's a lot more than $20. Granted, passengers could just hold their tablets or smartphones in their hands, but who wants to do that for the 6 hour trek to Grandma's house? Considering that all I got on long trips with my parents was a coloring book and a healthy dose of "you kids stop fighting and stay on your own sides," I would have loved it if my parents had hooked up iPads for us to pass the time with. [via prMac]
Bose patent app sees electroacoustical transducers in our chairs
While finding hidden speakers tucked neatly away in one's headrest, rocking chair, or gaming seat isn't exactly surprising, Bose is hoping to integrate the technology one step further by getting "surround sound" into practically every seat imaginable. According to a patent application filed by the company, it's hoping to develop an audio system that includes an "electroacoustical transducer mounted in the back of a seat" so that surround sound is radiated and focused around the ears of the listener. Obviously, said technology could be placed into cars, recliners, office chairs, and beach loungers with relative ease, and while musical entertainment is clearly the primary candidate for use in such a system, the filing also mentions possible telephone integration. Unsurprisingly, Bose didn't mention any details surrounding RMS ratings, frequency ranges, or driver sizes.[Via Wired]
