Switched http://www.switched.com Switched http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Switched http://www.switched.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[Tweeting 'Home Alone' With a Full Cast as It Happened]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/12/24/home-alone-recreated-on-twitter-complete-with-every-character/http://www.switched.com/2009/12/24/home-alone-recreated-on-twitter-complete-with-every-character/http://www.switched.com/2009/12/24/home-alone-recreated-on-twitter-complete-with-every-character/#commentsFiled under: , ,

23 Twitter accounts are working in unison for a modern retelling of 1990's 'Home Alone.' The Home Alone Project, created by design studio Nation, tells "the narrative of John Hughes' classic Christmas movie through the medium of Twitter as if it's happening in real time." It's probably the best use of Twitter lists we've seen yet; by watching the /homealone list, you can see every line and scene play out as it happens.

Because the events of the film play out over several days leading up to Christmas morning, older brother Buzz McCallister naively posted just 20 minutes ago, "We live in the most boring street in the United States where nothing even remotely dangerous will ever happen. Period." Nation stays faithful to the script, going so far as to provide the movie's soundtrack, and including seemingly minor characters like Fuller McCalliseter, the IllinoisPD, and even Little Nero's pizza. [From: HATProject]

SwitchedTweeting 'Home Alone' With a Full Cast as It Happened originally appeared on Switched on Thu, 24 Dec 2009 14:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>christmashggholidayshome aloneHomeAlonejohn mccainJohnMccainmovietoptwitterThu, 24 Dec 2009 14:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Tesla 'Tree' Lights Up With 500,000 Volts of Technicolor]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/12/23/tesla-tree-lights-up-with-500-000-volts-of-technicolor/http://www.switched.com/2009/12/23/tesla-tree-lights-up-with-500-000-volts-of-technicolor/http://www.switched.com/2009/12/23/tesla-tree-lights-up-with-500-000-volts-of-technicolor/#commentsFiled under: ,

When Christmas comes around, most people pick up a fir tree, add a few choice ornaments, top it off with a string of lights, and call it a day.

But Peter Terrent clearly isn't most people. The 53-year-old Bunbury, Australia native and father of three has experimented with electricity, or what he calls "electrickery," for more than a decade. By sending around 500,000 volts of electricity through Tesla coils, which convert electricity into light ribbons, and by taking photos of them with different color filters, Terrent is able to create intricate light shows like the 29-foot "Tesla Christmas Tree 2009," shown here in his driveway.

"Stand next to a small Tesla coil and try not to be impressed," Terrent explained of his unorthodox hobby to The Sun. "Then, stand next to a large one and try not to be incontinent."

Continue reading Tesla 'Tree' Lights Up With 500,000 Volts of Technicolor

SwitchedTesla 'Tree' Lights Up With 500,000 Volts of Technicolor originally appeared on Switched on Wed, 23 Dec 2009 07:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artchristmashggholidaysTeslaweirdWed, 23 Dec 2009 07:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Need a Silent Night? Doze Deep With These Dreamy Devices]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/12/22/need-a-silent-night-doze-deep-with-these-dreamy-devices/http://www.switched.com/2009/12/22/need-a-silent-night-doze-deep-with-these-dreamy-devices/http://www.switched.com/2009/12/22/need-a-silent-night-doze-deep-with-these-dreamy-devices/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

One of the downsides to technological industriousness is, undoubtedly, the nonstop whirlwind of data that is quickly turning us into ADD-addled, multitasking, frazzled shells of people. We regularly check sports scores, while microwaving dinner, while listening to music, while talking on the phone, while watching television, while shopping online for a new pair of sneakers. And this 24/7 media onslaught can lead to some very poor sleep habits, particularly for those of us heavily engaged with all things digital. So what's a geek to do? Fight technology with technology. Here are six gadgets that will help get some more rapid eye movement into your life.

Continue reading Need a Silent Night? Doze Deep With These Dreamy Devices

SwitchedNeed a Silent Night? Doze Deep With These Dreamy Devices originally appeared on Switched on Tue, 22 Dec 2009 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>addapplefeatureshggiphonelightsleepersleepsleepingsleeptrackertopverilux twilight ultra blue light therapy systemVeriluxTwilightUltraBlueLightTherapySystemzeoTue, 22 Dec 2009 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Track Santa With NORAD and Google Earth]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/12/22/track-santa-with-norad-and-google-earth/http://www.switched.com/2009/12/22/track-santa-with-norad-and-google-earth/http://www.switched.com/2009/12/22/track-santa-with-norad-and-google-earth/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The stockings are hung with care, the tree is glowing bright, and Santa's list has been checked and re-checked. With two days until Christmas Eve, there's nothing left to do but let the anticipation build. One necessary part of that Christmas preparation is tracking Santa's flight path through the night sky.

There are several ways to track Santa this year, but if you're looking for experienced trackers, you can't beat the North American Aerospace Defense Command's (NORAD) official Santa Tracker. The folks at NORAD have been tracking ol' St. Nick for more than 50 years, but they're not afraid of innovation. You can even follow Santa's flight path in 3-D using Google Earth. It really is a treat for kids (and adults, too) to watch Santa and his eight tiny reindeer zoom past digital versions of famous skylines -- from New York to Sydney, from Paris to Rome.

Continue reading Track Santa With NORAD and Google Earth

SwitchedTrack Santa With NORAD and Google Earth originally appeared on Switched on Tue, 22 Dec 2009 07:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>christmasgooglegoogleearthgpshggmapsnoradsantawebTue, 22 Dec 2009 07:29:00 EST<![CDATA[A Musical Mobile of Mobiles Makes Cell Phone Holiday Magic]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/12/21/a-mobile-of-mobiles-makes-cell-phone-holiday-magic/http://www.switched.com/2009/12/21/a-mobile-of-mobiles-makes-cell-phone-holiday-magic/http://www.switched.com/2009/12/21/a-mobile-of-mobiles-makes-cell-phone-holiday-magic/#commentsFiled under: ,

The humble cell phone goes by many names; worldwide, the most common being simply "mobile." For many on this side of the pond, though, that word first brings to mind the image of a rotating object hanging from the ceiling of a nursery. Thus, the Mobile Mobile was born.

The art installation is composed of 50 HTC Touch handsets, all run by custom code directed by connected computers. Apparently, it can be programmed to play any song, like the holiday-themed one in the video after the break, and remote musicians can access a live stream at the installation's site and play their own music. Any tune you can think of.

Continue reading A Musical Mobile of Mobiles Makes Cell Phone Holiday Magic

SwitchedA Musical Mobile of Mobiles Makes Cell Phone Holiday Magic originally appeared on Switched on Mon, 21 Dec 2009 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artcellphonehggholidayjames theophaneJamesTheophanelbimobile mobileMobileMobilemusictopMon, 21 Dec 2009 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[All We Don't Want For X-Mas (And What You Should Get Us Instead)]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/12/20/all-we-dont-want-for-x-mas-and-what-you-should-get-us-instead/http://www.switched.com/2009/12/20/all-we-dont-want-for-x-mas-and-what-you-should-get-us-instead/http://www.switched.com/2009/12/20/all-we-dont-want-for-x-mas-and-what-you-should-get-us-instead/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The only thing we hate worse than seeing other people toting around lackluster, craptastic gear is finding it underneath our own Christmas tree. That may seem like materialistic nitpicking in a season that's about generosity -- and it is -- but what really inspires us is the idea of always getting the absolute most out of your money, and the joy of giving (or receiving) a truly excellent item. Also, it's really fun to slam items we think are overrated or just plain lacking. So save yourself a little holiday heartache and time spent in the returns department with a look at our panned products and sure-fire picks that are guaranteed to please.

SwitchedAll We Don't Want For X-Mas (And What You Should Get Us Instead) originally appeared on Switched on Sun, 20 Dec 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featureshgghp mini 311HpMini311insignia brdvd3InsigniaBrdvd3jvc ha-nc250JvcHa-nc250kindle2macbook proMacbookPronetflixps3roku hd playerRokuHdPlayersandisk extreme iiiSandiskExtremeIiisony reader touchSonyReaderTouchtopwd tv liveWdTvLiveSun, 20 Dec 2009 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[70 Genius Tech-Themed Gifts For Under $70]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/12/10/70-under-70/http://www.switched.com/2009/12/10/70-under-70/http://www.switched.com/2009/12/10/70-under-70/#commentsFiled under: ,

Our Holiday Gift Guide is pretty comprehensive, especially when you are looking for that big gift to give to a special someone. But what about everyone else, like those hard-to-shop-for pals you don't want to shell out a ton of dough for or those that seem to have it all. Most of the Switched team, (Amar Toor, Caleb Johnson, Chris Morris, Jon Chase, Leila Brillson, Matt Zuras, Terrence O'Brien, Thomas Houston and Warren Riddle) with our various tastes and interests, got together and found the best doodads and knicknacks, toys and workplace accessories; from glow-in-the-dark sheep to must-have iPhone apps. We can honestly say we'd like everything on the list. Just, you know, in case you were wondering.

Switched70 Genius Tech-Themed Gifts For Under $70 originally appeared on Switched on Thu, 10 Dec 2009 15:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featureshgghgg-featurestopThu, 10 Dec 2009 15:20:00 EST<![CDATA[70 Under $70 6]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/12/10/70-under-70-6/http://www.switched.com/2009/12/10/70-under-70-6/http://www.switched.com/2009/12/10/70-under-70-6/#commentsFiled under:



Media-philia (the love of consuming data) has run completely rampant in the aughts. So ubiquitous have the iPod and cell phone become that virtually no one can live without them. Since we are attached to our digital devices, give plug-ins and players a sense of humor and a touch of style this holiday season.

"Hymn Book" iPod Case, $14
 For most of us, our iPods are sacred territory. Designed for 30 GB and 80 GB sized iPods, the Hymn Book case will confirm everyone's sneaking suspicions that your taste in music is, in fact, divinely inspired.
Griffin SmartShare Headphone Splitter, $25
Don't mistake the cold feel of this plastic and metal doohickey for a lack of emotional appeal: it's all about hooking people up. Split any standard headphone jack signal into two, and since each has its own volume control, you're only left with music selection to fight over.
iPod or iPhone AV Cable, $50
Perhaps the most useful accessory any iPodder who travels could want, this cable set lets you connect your iPod or iPhone to a TV and play your saved video content instead of lugging around DVDs or a laptop. While it won't do HD, the quality approaches DVD depending on the type of video (and be sure to check whether your specific model iPod will work), and setup is as easy as plugging in the cables.
Nixon Trooper Headphones, $50
 These good, affordable headphones will help your music lover truly appreciate the quality of the tunes coming from their iPod. Compact and carrying case-equipped, the real reason you'll want to grab a pair is they're a heck of a lot more comfortable than the ear buds most media players come with -- and you won't need a second mortgage to buy a pair.



USB Mixtape, $18
Quirky USB drives are a dime-a-dozen, so what makes us love this one? Nostalgia. Designed to resemble one of the countless mixtapes we labored over as kids, this device will hold 64-megabytes of music -- just enough space to create a mix for that special person.
Zumreed Headphones, $65
These Japanese imports are actually quite lightweight, but with the color options (five, to be exact, but lime-green is the coolest), you won't think about anything except that your amazing look finally matches your rad tunes.


Best Camera iPhone App and Book, $2 and $14
The 'Best Camera' app lets you shoot, edit, add filters, and share all within a single app, so you'll be able to create a moody filmic shot and share with your friends in just a few quick taps. The app also hooks up to thebestcamera.com, an online sharing community for feedback and inspiration.
Holga Camera Starter Kit, $70
As a result of cheap production, the photos made from the cult-classic Holga cameras are legendary for their unpredictability. The camera's blurred, distorted, and underexposed photos have been a mainstay of street photography since the early '80s.
Solar Sputnik Light, $24
 Modeled after the first satellite to orbit Earth, this lamp sports a unique design. But the coolest part is that it's powered by solar energy. After charging for about five hours, you can run this light for nearly eight -- indoor or outdoor, but sadly, not in outer space.
TV-B-Gone, $20
Sort of a gift catered for curmudgeons and rapscallions, the TV-B-Gone is a simple keychain that turns off (or on) virtually any TV out there, letting you play god at your local bar or restaurant if the programming stinks. Word of advice: Before you start fooling around, make sure you're the toughest one in the room.


Tickets to 'Avatar,' Varying
James Cameron is the director who created both 'Titanic' and 'The Terminator,' so no matter who's on your list, they're likely interested in his latest film. He's been trying to make 'Avatar' for 15 years and technology has just caught up with his vision, so the curiosity factor alone makes this worth the price.


Skyvoyager App, $15
The casual star-gazer and hardcore astronomer alike can appreciate this iPhone app that uses the GPS and a compass to identify which celestial objects are in the field of view. In addition to its catalog of over 330,000 objects, it can even control some telescope models via Wi-Fi. Awesome.


Hardgraft U Phone Case, $67
Not only just for iPhone users, the U Phone fits a plethora of other popular phones, too. Pure wool felt and a leather wallet case in back make this practical, and way cooler looking than virtually any other phone sleeve on the market.

AQ Amigo Laptop Speaker, $32
Prices on laptops continue to steadily drop, but sometimes the bargain models lack necessary extras, like adequate speakers. To fill that need, AQ's Amigo portable speakers not only come at a great price, but the sleek and unobtrusive item is designed to rest comfortably, and out of the way, on top of the laptop's screen.



Switched70 Under $70 6 originally appeared on Switched on Thu, 10 Dec 2009 00:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hggThu, 10 Dec 2009 00:30:00 EST<![CDATA[70 Under $70 5]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/12/10/70-under-70-5/http://www.switched.com/2009/12/10/70-under-70-5/http://www.switched.com/2009/12/10/70-under-70-5/#commentsFiled under:

Trinkets and baubles make anyone feel happy, and even though there are some options, like the "Arcade Parade" necklace or USB hand warmers, made specifically for a gal, anyone can feel cool sporting a classic Timex watch.


"Arcade Parade" Necklace, $45
Get a geekette to wear her bling proudly by rocking this stylish, and pretty clever, necklace depicting Blinky, Inky, and Pinky (though, in brass, you can't tell which is which) chasing after Pac-Man, our beloved hero.


"Get Your Mac On" Pin, $9
It just wouldn't be practical to pin Justin Long to your sweater or laptop bag, so this pin is the next best way to declare your allegiance to Apple. This little smiling computer is the perfect stocking stuffer for that hipster in your family who shudders at the sight of a PC.


Apple Z Necklace, $20
We couldn't think of a geekier personal accessory than the Apple Z necklace. Sure, you could stop off at Claire's for some cheap charm with a panda or something on it. Or you could embrace your inner nerd and wear that 'Undo' keystroke with pride. It tells the world, "I know keyboard shortcuts AND I have existential regret." Think about it.


Black on Black Tie, $30-$40
If you wanna stand out from the black-tie crowd, a neck accessory from Cyberoptix might be the solution. It may look simple, but take a closer look and you'll see the print "#000000" running down the side -- the hexadecimal code for the color black. A guaranteed conversation-starter among all the other techie partygoers milling around the eggnog.


Fashionable Technology: The Intersection of Design, Fashion, Science and Technology, $36
Reconcile your inner fashionista with your game-playing addiction. This book showcases the burgeoning fashion trend of wearable technology and gives an overview of its practical applications, with plenty of illustrations and input from over 50 designers, artists, and (of course) research institutions.


Handheld sewing machine, $15
If you know someone who only sews occasionally, this miniature machine is perfect. It's easy to maneuver and lets the user handle small tasks in less time than it would take to set up a bigger, more expensive model. Better still, it won't dominate space in your closet.


iPod Hoodie, $15
 Coordinating your duds with your pet is so last decade. Make sure your iPod is appropriately dressed this holiday season with this gray knit hoodie. Not only will it score you fashion points, but it'll help keep your iPod screen from getting scratched.


Nerdy Talk Charm, $24
Quality dork bling is tough to find, but Volpe's Nerdy Talk charm bracelet can provide geeks with some much-needed glitz and glamor. The silver-plated chain and disk also come with a pewter robot attached, just in case the huge 'NERD' emblazoned on the charm isn't enough of a dork indicator.


The "Gaming Revolution" Tee, $9
Take the classic symbol of revolt, fill it with silhouettes of most game system controllers from the past 20 years, screen print on a T-shirt, and you've got instant nerd apparel.


USB Heated Gloves, $25
Office thermostats have two temperature settings: equatorial and arctic. If you know someone living in the second category, these gloves will keep their hands toasty as they work on their spreadsheet. In just five minutes, they'll feel a 10-degree rise. Just remind them to unplug before they go grab another cup of coffee.


LEGO Wallet, $25-40
It probably won't fit in a back pocket comfortably, but when a wallet is made out of LEGO, who cares? Handmade and durable, this is a stylish way to carry your Benjamins - and it's certain to make an impression when you pull out your AmEx at Best Buy.


Timex Classic Watch, $35
Classically '80s, this watch makes us think about how hip it is to be be square. With all of the general necessities of a watch (night vision, alarm, timer), the stretchy metal band allows for a little "give" if you aren't totally certain of your giftee's size.


The Knit Kit, $20
While knitting is decadently old-skool, that doesn't mean your gear has to be. Housed inside the Knit Kit are a stitch counter, thread cutter, tape measure, TSA-compliant scissors (meaning you can take it on planes), a crochet hook, and some other odds and ends that knitters love and we can't even identify.

Manhattan Portage, Computer Bag, $68
It's not easy to admit that the time has come to finally get a briefcase. Sure, that thing you had in college is just too ratty to lug around anymore, but carrying something made out of alligator skin gives you the creeps. Try this simple, durable bag (in an assortment of colors) to keep your day organized, but stylish.


Switched70 Under $70 5 originally appeared on Switched on Thu, 10 Dec 2009 00:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hggThu, 10 Dec 2009 00:30:00 EST<![CDATA[70 Under $70 4]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/12/10/70-under-70-4/http://www.switched.com/2009/12/10/70-under-70-4/http://www.switched.com/2009/12/10/70-under-70-4/#commentsFiled under:



The nice thing about a gadget created simply for pure enjoyment is that it passes all age boundaries, meaning a 13-year-old and a 30-year-old will find equal enjoyment in an electric guitar shirt. Hey, it's got USB, it must be for adults.


Buckyballs, $30
With 216 small magnetic balls that come in a single set, you and your loved ones will be entertained for hours with all the infinite shapes and structures you can make. Great for captivating your average Switched staffer, Buckyballs have a cute name, but make no mistake about it -- they're seriously addictive.


Electronic Rock and Roll T-Shirt, $30
Our vision of the future has these tees as standard attire for all of humanity, when we all spend our days rocking in sweet harmony. Give your loved ones this T-shirt that's a fully-functioning electronic guitar, complete with a tiny wired amp that actually goes to 11. Pushing on either side of a fret plays a chord, so you can actually make music, and the amp detaches from the shirt to hang from acid-washed jeans (not included).


Gamefly Gift Certificate, Varying in price
Think of Gamefly as the Netflix for video games. Memberships start at $8.95 a month, so a gift certificate for 6-months is just over $50. Besides game rentals, Gamefly also buys and sells used games -- perfect for starved college kids who can't be bothered to get a job to support their gaming habit.


Interactive Air Rage MicroFighter, $35
Part of Radio Shack's fleet of mini remote control fliers, this one is particularly nice because it has a foam exterior which we assume will boost its lifespan from two weeks to at least two months. They're a kick to fly, have enough juice for 10 minutes between charges, and can be used indoors or outdoors.


Lego Empire State Building, $25
Spice up your cube by following architect William F. Lamb; build your very own LEGO replica of the Empire State Building, one of the world's most iconic buildings, in miniature, block form.


Solar Grasshopper Kit, $9
A fun little item to distract curious kids for upwards of 10 minutes (or curious co-workers all afternoon for that matter), this miniature toy is sold as a project but in reality snaps together without tools in about a minute. We'll be honest and say we wish it hopped instead of skittered, but then someone would lose an eye for sure and, hey, that's what you get for $9.


F U, Penguin, The Book, $14
Just about anyone with an Internet addiction and a dark sense of humor (and usually the two go hand in hand) can appreciate this assault on the overdose-levels of cute hurled at us everyday by sites like Cute Overload. We see you, Penguin. We dare you to make the first move.


Stylophone Retro Pocket Synthesizer, $20
Does your giftee like things that make noise? Does he or she suffer from an inexplicable nostalgia for a time long before they were born? Does said person live under someone else's roof? If you answered yes to all three, then consider the mildly grating but endlessly fun Stylophone. Then ask him or her to treat you to a tinny rendition of "Jingle Bells" by tapping it out with the name-sake stylus.


Seamore the Sheep USB-Powered Light, $65
Poor Seamore accidentally consumed some radioactive grass, and now he glows in the dark, via USB. But that's okay, he's just a little sheepish, and his designer toy status and removable goggles make up for the fact that he looks a little green.


Soundracer, $40
 Sure, hybrids do their part for the environment, but deep inside they lack something -- the booming roar of the sports car. Now you can get the sounds and still do right by the planet. As drivers accelerate and shift gears, the SoundRacer mimics the sound of a muscle car via the in-car stereo. It won't make your pop Dale Earnhardt, but he can always dream.


Mini Weapons of Mass Destruction, $12
Perfectly suited for the DIY cubicle warrior bored with USB missile turrets, this book is loaded with ways to turn common office supplies and household objects into tools of war. Warnings of "you'll put you're eye out" not included.


Printable Shrinky Dinks, $10
Nostalgia, plus arts and crafts? It's your lucky day. We're sure that someone on your list would appreciate this update of the classic craft toy that lets you print designs with a standard inkjet printer, before baking.

KauzBots, $25
Since it's the season of giving, what better way to maximize goodwill than by giving a gift that helps those less fortunate? KauzBots is a collection of stuffed adorable robot toys, each with their own special cause, like literacy or clean water. Depending on what you purchase, 10% of the retail price will go to the institution designated to that particular Bot. Snuggly, mechanical, and altruistic.


Eliss Touchscreen iPhone Game, $3
Forget 3D graphics and arsenals of weapons. 'Eliss,' one of the most elegant and inventive uses of a touchscreen we've seen, combining '80s-era space arcades with a blip-heavy soundtrack that responds to your touch-activated actions. Grab it on your iPhone or iPod touch for only $2.99

Switched70 Under $70 4 originally appeared on Switched on Thu, 10 Dec 2009 00:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hggThu, 10 Dec 2009 00:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Switched's 2009 Holiday Gift Guide: All You Need, Probably Ever]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/12/09/switcheds-2009-holiday-gift-guide-all-you-need-probably-ever/http://www.switched.com/2009/12/09/switcheds-2009-holiday-gift-guide-all-you-need-probably-ever/http://www.switched.com/2009/12/09/switcheds-2009-holiday-gift-guide-all-you-need-probably-ever/#commentsFiled under:

With the advent of the easily accessible and readily changing blog-o-sphere, the holidays aren't just about trapping the elusive perfect gift, but being bombarded by endless gift guides proclaiming to find "the right thing" for an assortment of relations. Yet, at Switched, we are going to be totally honest with you: Ours is the best. Seriously. We've scoured press releases and databases, inboxes and outlet malls, and what we've found will make anyone, tech-savvy or not, thrilled. We don't just have a list, we have a whole hub, filled with ideas, products, and apps to make this holiday right.

Sometimes a special lady needs a little color in her fast-paced life. Or the guy of your dreams wants to hit the open road. A simple matrix (first, choose the type of gift, then specify your price range), makes shopping a breeze. And of course, its a great place to point those who stuff your stockings with socks and badly knitted sweaters. Hey, you gotta get some good booty, too, right?

SwitchedSwitched's 2009 Holiday Gift Guide: All You Need, Probably Ever originally appeared on Switched on Wed, 09 Dec 2009 19:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hggholidaystopWed, 09 Dec 2009 19:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Switched's 2009 Holiday Gift Guide]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/12/08/switcheds-2009-holiday-gift-guide/http://www.switched.com/2009/12/08/switcheds-2009-holiday-gift-guide/http://www.switched.com/2009/12/08/switcheds-2009-holiday-gift-guide/#commentsFiled under: ,

With only 17 shopping days left till Christmas (and an ever-shortening shipping period), it's probably a good idea to start working on those lists now. Fortunately, we've scoured the Web for the best gifts for everyone from your friend the rabid sports fan to the media head in your family. Our handy sort-by-price and sort-by-person setup helps you find things like a golf gadget gift for dad or a stylish and affordable point-and-shoot camera. Head on over to the Switched 2009 Gift Guide, load up Chevy Chase's classic 'Christmas Vacation,' and wrap up your shipping before the insanity starts.

SwitchedSwitched's 2009 Holiday Gift Guide originally appeared on Switched on Tue, 08 Dec 2009 19:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hggtopTue, 08 Dec 2009 19:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Gift Guide: Onkyo HD-S7200 7.1 Surround HTiB]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/12/06/gift-guide-onkyo-hd-s7200-7-1-surround-htib/http://www.switched.com/2009/12/06/gift-guide-onkyo-hd-s7200-7-1-surround-htib/http://www.switched.com/2009/12/06/gift-guide-onkyo-hd-s7200-7-1-surround-htib/#commentsFiled under:


Onkyo HT-S7200 Home Theater System (Media Hound, Under $1,000)

Beyond the big screen, what really separates a trip to the theater from a Netflix night is the sound. Big, booming, immersive, oh-god-the-zombies-are-coming-for-us surround sound. And when it comes to surround sound, there's your tinny, run-of-the-mill glorified computer speakers, and then there's Onkyo's new 7.1 system, the HT-S7200 ($899). Besides the extra pair of speakers (used to add an aural height dimension), unlike most surround setups, the S7200 handles virtually every advanced audio format out there, including Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD, and Dolby's ProLogic IIz. The receiver has HDMI inputs for five devices, pops out 130 watts per channel, and has processing that automatically corrects sound based on your room's acoustics. Nicely, it also upscales component and composite video sources to 1080i, should your source equipment be 720p or less. Coupled with its 290-watt 10-inch subwoofer, your movie or game night will positively thunder. Neighbors: You have been warned.

SwitchedGift Guide: Onkyo HD-S7200 7.1 Surround HTiB originally appeared on Switched on Sun, 06 Dec 2009 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hgghgg-1000home theatre systemHomeTheatreSystemHTiBonkyo ht-s7200OnkyoHt-s7200Sun, 06 Dec 2009 18:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Gift Guide: BRAMMO Enertia Electric Motorcycle]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/12/06/gift-guide-brammo-enertia-electric-motorcycle/http://www.switched.com/2009/12/06/gift-guide-brammo-enertia-electric-motorcycle/http://www.switched.com/2009/12/06/gift-guide-brammo-enertia-electric-motorcycle/#commentsFiled under:


BRAMMO Enertia Electric Motorcycle (Earth Lover, Cost No Object)

Among the first two-wheeled fully electric street-legal motorcycles on the market, Brammo's Enertia is a fun and substantial little ride for moto enthusiasts and short-range commuters (check out our full review here). It zips along at up to 50 mph (sounding remarkably like the Lexus from Minority Report) and is capable of 45 miles per charge (which takes about 3 hours), so you're limited to 20-odd mile distances unless you plan to plug in wherever you stop. As there's only one gear, the Enertia offers a quick learning curve for novices since there's no shifting and clutching, and running it every day -- completely emission-free don't forget -- will still only put up an annual electricity cost of well under $100. Couple that with the savings on gas and the 10% federal tax credit and the initial steep-seeming $7995 price tag suddenly isn't so bad.

SwitchedGift Guide: BRAMMO Enertia Electric Motorcycle originally appeared on Switched on Sun, 06 Dec 2009 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brammo enertiaBrammoEnertiaelectric motorcycleElectricMotorcyclehgghgg-cnohgg-earthloverSun, 06 Dec 2009 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gift Guide: Epson P-3000 Photo Viewer]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/12/06/gift-guide-epson-p-3000-photo-viewer/http://www.switched.com/2009/12/06/gift-guide-epson-p-3000-photo-viewer/http://www.switched.com/2009/12/06/gift-guide-epson-p-3000-photo-viewer/#commentsFiled under:


Epson P-3000 Multimedia Photo Viewer (Creative, Under $500)

We've found that new owners of DSLR cameras quickly come to a few realizations: the first is that they had no idea how mediocre their old cameras (and photos) actually were; and the second is that they had no idea how big the files were. There's nothing worse than being on a vacation with a maxed-out memory card and having to delete photos to make room for new ones, so for snap-happy photogs we recommend Epson's P-series of multimedia viewers. Rather than carry around a laptop to download your daily batch of photos, simply pop your memory card (compact flash or SD, including SDHC) in the P-3000 and download them for temporary storage and to get a look at your snaps on its 4-inch LCD. The P-3000 can handle RAW and JPEG files, as well as loads of video and audio types in case you want to load it up with movies and music for the plane ride over; its internal 40-gigabyte hard drive can hold several thousand photos and hours of video and audio. Considering you could buy a netbook for around the same price, its $400 price tag is a little steep, but the convenience and reliability (and bizarrely, utter lack of quality competition) make it a surefire hit for photo enthusiasts.

SwitchedGift Guide: Epson P-3000 Photo Viewer originally appeared on Switched on Sun, 06 Dec 2009 17:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epson p-3000EpsonP-3000hgghgg-500hgg-creativephoto viewerPhotoViewerportable hard driveportable photoPortableHardDrivePortablePhotoSun, 06 Dec 2009 17:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Gift Guide: Galileo EGS-1 Golf Scope and Rangefinder]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/12/06/gift-guide-galileo-egs-1-golf-scope-and-rangefinder/http://www.switched.com/2009/12/06/gift-guide-galileo-egs-1-golf-scope-and-rangefinder/http://www.switched.com/2009/12/06/gift-guide-galileo-egs-1-golf-scope-and-rangefinder/#commentsFiled under:

Galileo EGS-1 Golf Scope and Rangefinder (Sports Fan, Under $50)

One of the key skills to the game of golf is being able to accurately gauge the distance needed for your next swat and then picking the right club for the job accordingly. Since you or your loved one are presumably hopeless at it, there's the Galileo EGS_1, a monocular for sighting and then instantly measuring the distance to the pin (that's the "flag thingie" to you and me). A host of companies make similar devices that sell for several times the EGS-1's $50 price tag while only offering a smidgen more accuracy than its 5 or so yards -- which admit it, is way more accurate than you'll ever be, Dr. Duffer.

SwitchedGift Guide: Galileo EGS-1 Golf Scope and Rangefinder originally appeared on Switched on Sun, 06 Dec 2009 16:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>egs-1galileogolf scopeGolfScopehgghgg-50hgg-sportsfanmonocularrange finderRangeFinderSun, 06 Dec 2009 16:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Gift Guide: Peek Pronto Mobile Messaging Device]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/12/06/gift-guide-peek-pronto-mobile-messaging-device/http://www.switched.com/2009/12/06/gift-guide-peek-pronto-mobile-messaging-device/http://www.switched.com/2009/12/06/gift-guide-peek-pronto-mobile-messaging-device/#commentsFiled under:

Peek Pronto Mobile Messaging Device (Novice, Under $50)

While the makers of the Pronto may cringe at the comparison, consider it a welcome companion to the elder-friendly Jitterbug cellphone. The Pronto is a $50 dedicated e-mail- and text-messaging device for those who either can't get their heads around the intricacies of using a multifunction smartphone or simply don't want to (and the original Peek Classic is e-mail only and just $19). Setup is as simple as Forrest Gump: call to activate, then type in your e-mail address and password from most major providers like AOL, Hotmail, Yahoo, and Google and you're up and running. Unlike most cellphones, you can choose to go contract-free and pay by the month ($14.99) for unlimited e-mail and texts anywhere in the U.S., or pay $299.99 and get lifetime unlimited service (which we'd recommend against; that's equal to just two years of monthly charges which is a heck of a commitment for a device like this). We eagerly await the inevitable companion device to the Pronto and the Jitterbug for the tech-phobic trifecta: a handheld VCR clock programmer.

SwitchedGift Guide: Peek Pronto Mobile Messaging Device originally appeared on Switched on Sun, 06 Dec 2009 16:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>emailemailonlyhandheldhgghgg-50hgg-novicepeek prontPeekProntSun, 06 Dec 2009 16:37:00 EST<![CDATA[Gift Guide: FujiFilm Instax Mini 7]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/12/06/gift-guide-fujifilm-instax-mini-7/http://www.switched.com/2009/12/06/gift-guide-fujifilm-instax-mini-7/http://www.switched.com/2009/12/06/gift-guide-fujifilm-instax-mini-7/#commentsFiled under:


FujiFilm Instax Mini 7 (Style-o-Phile, under $100)

Polaroid may come and Polaroid may go (and then come right back again), but there will always be a place in our hearts for instant film. Especially when it's as easy, foolproof, and cheap as Fuji's $85 Instax Mini 7. For the uninitiated in this digital age, the idea is that you snap a shot and a full-color 2 x 3-inch print pops out and is developed in a minute or so. The bubbly plastic case may err a little too on the side of Dora the Explora' for our tastes, but what the hey, it's fun. Like most (but not all) Polaroid cameras, the Mini 7 is fixed focus, and has an LED exposure indicator to let you know if you have enough light for a clear picture, and a built-in flash in case you don't. Our only gripe is that the film tends toward the pricey side at about a buck a shot (though it drops if you buy in bulk), but heck -- we think you're worth it.

SwitchedGift Guide: FujiFilm Instax Mini 7 originally appeared on Switched on Sun, 06 Dec 2009 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fujifilmhgghgg-100hgg-style-o-phileinstant filmInstantFilminstaxinstax mini 7InstaxMini7polaroidSun, 06 Dec 2009 13:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Gift Guide: Nikon Camera S640]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/12/06/gift-guide-nikon-camera-s640/http://www.switched.com/2009/12/06/gift-guide-nikon-camera-s640/http://www.switched.com/2009/12/06/gift-guide-nikon-camera-s640/#commentsFiled under:


No one wants to purchase just a 'point-and-click,' and for those who fancy themselves an amateur photographer (with emphasis on amateur), the Coolpix S640 is a solid intro that can help trigger-happy shooters grow into themselves. Shiny features like four sharp colors, a 'skin softening' feature, and in-camera red-eye adjustments appeal to the fashionable or self-conscious, as does the feathery four ounce weight. With an astonishing 12.2 megapixel image capacity and four ways of image stabilization (from high ISO to a motion detector), it's virtually impossible to take a bad picture; though, taking a good picture is still up to the enthusiast behind the lens.

Price: $249.95

SwitchedGift Guide: Nikon Camera S640 originally appeared on Switched on Sun, 06 Dec 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hgghgg-100hgg-creativeSun, 06 Dec 2009 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gift Guide: Barnes & Noble Nook eBook Reader]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/12/06/gift-guide-barnes-and-noble-nook-ebook-reader/http://www.switched.com/2009/12/06/gift-guide-barnes-and-noble-nook-ebook-reader/http://www.switched.com/2009/12/06/gift-guide-barnes-and-noble-nook-ebook-reader/#commentsFiled under:


Earth Lover, Best Under $500
Barnes & Noble Nook eBook Reader

With the endless flow of eReaders hitting the streets every few hours now, the market has gotten thick real quick. The Kindle is obviously the iPod of the bunch so far, but we think Barnes & Noble's Nook is a real contender for the title. It's gorgeous, fun to use, extremely versatile, small enough for a big pocket (7.7 x 4.9 x .5 inches) and at very reasonable $259, a pretty tempting piece of gadgetry. Like the Kindle it comes with lifetime free wireless service but also has Wi-Fi connectivity (free at all B&N stores) for downloading books and periodicals, and also has a replaceable 10-hour rechargeable battery. The top of the two-screens is the reader part, which is plenty bright enough for daylight use, but the lower color screen is the real genius, a 3.5-inch touchscreen that lets you flick through all your titles (like Apple's CoverFlow) and doubles as a touchscreen keyboard. It comes with 2GB of storage (enough for 1,500 books) and nicely, and wisely, also has a microSD slot for expansion up to 16GB more, and can handle a handful of standard file types (PDFs, MP3s, JPEG, GIF, etc.) We're also impressed with the ability to lend a book for up to 2 weeks to a friend (who can use other readers to view it). Since the Nook's OS is Android, we're waiting to see what other capabilities will be unleashed as soon as it gets cracked in three, two, one....

SwitchedGift Guide: Barnes & Noble Nook eBook Reader originally appeared on Switched on Sun, 06 Dec 2009 12:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>barnesandnobleebookebookreaderereaderhgghgg-500hgg-gadgetheadnookSun, 06 Dec 2009 12:03:00 EST