This Week in Tech, Vol. III

bmw-thermaltake

1. Google has let the world know it’s going to make a phone. The Nexus One, as it’s being called, will probably be the next best thing since sliced bread. Purportedly being offered unlocked and at an affordable price, the phone could help Google dominate smartphone hardware as well as software. It’ll feature Android 2.1, a Snapdragon processor (which are wicked fast), a 3.7-inch AMOLED screen, and a 5 megapixel camera. All of this bringing Google’s level of world domination to a staggering 74%. ZOMG The Google Phone is “Like An iPhone On Beautifying Steroids”

2. What do you do when you’re sick of designing uber-sexy sports cars and want something a little more “personal”? Partner with Thermaltake and design an uber-sexy computer case, of course! BMW Designworks stepped away from the usual automobile fare to create a breathtaking and unique work of art. The Thermaltake Level 10 is a completely modular case, a beautiful monstrosity weighing in at a staggering 47 lbs. BMW-designed Thermaltake Level 10 scores breathless review

3. Apparently this new-fangled invention called “the internet” is popular. The Wall Street Journal is reporting that McDonalds will offer free WiFi starting mid-January. Access currently runs $2.95 for two hours, but the fee is being dropped to trick unsuspecting kids into thinking McDownloads is a cool hangout spot. McDonald’s to Offer Free Wireless Internet

4. I like my cars like I like my music. Without power cords. That’s why I’m excited hearing about Plugless Power. Billed as the world’s first “hands-free” proximity charging station for electric vehicles, the system is entering production shortly and will be available to drivers by Fall 2010. No word on what will happen to the soon-to-be-unemployed pump attendants. Plugless Power gearing up for production of its hands-free EV charging stations

5. Finally, Blu-ray has a tangible benefit over DVD. 3D! Remember when you watched that cheesy 3D horror movie, and the worst part about was the goofy glasses? Soon you will be able to enjoy that same experience at home. The Blu-ray Disc Association formalized the specs for 3D-enhanced Blue-ray, meaning it’s only time before your current TV is obsoleted, and you’ll have to dish out for a 3D-compatible set. But good news – PS3 will work with the new disks, and the new disks will be backwards-compatible with normal televisions. Blu-ray 3D video spec finalized

Posted on December 21, 2009 | Filed Under Tech