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January 24, 2008
A Chocolate-bar Sized Loudspeaker and More
It's a slow news day today so the Novium news had us thinking about gadgets and gear out of Europe. Here are a couple we recently heard about.
This indoor loudspeaker for MP3 devices is using a sound panel from Plastic Electronic, an Austrian startup that's developing electronics on plastic devices for several types of applications. (images source:Green Lama)
The thin loudspeaker (10mm thick and weighing 90 grams) costs €40 and uses Varta's polyflex micro-batteries that recharge via a USB. Green Lama designed it and also sells the gadget on its website.
d3o Labs is a VC-backed startup in the UK that has developed a new material that changes its rigidity depending on speed. Its being used in motorcycle jackets, footballs, and downhill mountain biking protective apparel.
For example, the Spyder Ultimate Chamois bike short is worn under loose shorts and has d3o padding across the hips, thighs and tailbone "to shield against impact". (image source: 3DO website)
We also heard that sales are on the upwards trajectory at VC-backed Iqua, out of Finland, which just launched its Bluetooth earwig in the US. It recharges via a photovoltaic panel. Engadget published a positive review earlier this month.
We wrote about Iqua back in January 2006 here.
Posted on January 24, 2008 05:32 PM | Posted to Being European | Permalink
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