Target offers mobile coupons

I don't know about you guys, but I use coupons all the time. Well, mobile coupons are coming to Target. This is not a new technology but Target is the first major retailer to offer these digital bar-coded coupons. Shoppers interested in getting the mobile coupons must register on Target's web site. Once you are registered, you will get text messages on your phone with links to a web page that feature various coupons. There will be new coupons each month and can be used at any Target store nationwide. Other large chain stores are also planning to offer mobile coupons. One in particular is J.C. Penney.

Phone Halo

This is a new gadget called the Phone Halo. The price is around $60 and it turns your BlackBerry or Android phone into a handheld finder. If you loose your keys or phone, you can just open up the Phone Halo apps on your phone, then toggle it to beep. It has a transmitter that can transmit a beep back to your phone, then you can hit a button on the unit to start ringing your handset even if you have it set to silent.

Sony 3D TV

Sony announced that that its 3D TV will arrive June 10th, in Japan. The 3D TV has a 46-inch screen and the cost will be $3,875.00 (wow). Each set will come with two pairs of 3D glasses (only two pair).

Since there are currently limited options for watching 3D content at home, Sony is counting on video games to drice initial sales. Also Sony is partnering with Discovery for a 3D TV network, and ESPN plans to add a channel of 3D content.

Energizer UsbCharger

The Energizer UsbCharger comes with software, that according to the United States Computer Emergency Response Team , contains a backdoor that allows unauthorized remote system access. The major risk is an attacker is able to remotely control a system, including the ability to list directories, send and receive files, and execute programs. The backdoor operates with the privileges of the logged-on user. According to Energizer they have discontinued the sale of the product and removed the site to download the software. The article goes on to tell you how you can remove the components of the software from your computer.

Microsoft TechFest science fair

Monday, March 1, 2010, Microsoft gave a preview of trends in software and computing that the company expects in coming years. Microsoft's chief research and strategy officer said "computing is evolving from the graphical user interface to natural user interface, such as speech, touch, and voice". The article mentions something called muscle computing. With muscle computing there is an input system that is worn on the arm that projects virtual buttons onto the skin. This allows a computer to be controlled with taps along an arm or even on the side of a coffee cup held in the hand. Also, using armbands with muscle sensors that work as computer interfaces. Instead of clicking a button, users move their fingers and hands to control input. There were several other interesting prototype systems that Microsoft mentions in the article.