In an effort to push Windows Live further into the market, Microsoft's released its new line of LifeCam webcams.  But why? Well that's an easy question to answer.  In fact, let me lift a quote from the press release that describes one of these magic moments: "Seeing your grandchild's first steps from miles away."  But you don't have grandchildren?  How about "Hearing your friend's laugh from across the country" or "Sharing your dorm room decorating skills with your parents back home"?  These are the kinds of moments that will become the "hallmark of Microsoft LifeCams".  Hmm...  will they really?

Here are the facts: The LifeCam VX-6000, which retails for just under $100, captures video at 1.3 megapixels and has a 3X zoom.  The $50 VX-3000, or "little bro" as I alone have started calling it, captures video at 640x480 pixels.  (I don't think that's been done before.  It seems like a novel idea.  Right?)

However, if you're a fan of Windows Live, you will appreciate the special functionality that MSFT has added, a list which includes a Windows Live Call Button (it brings up your Buddy Picker), integration into Windows Live Messenger, and one-touch blogging (post images to your Windows Live Space with one click). 

I'm sure this is a fine webcam, as webcams go.  However, I have to admit I'm not a huge fan of video messaging.  But then, I've been told I've got a "real face for radio."  Hrmph. 

Tune into this week's Gearlog Radio show (available on Friday) as we'll be talking all about LifeCams and how they fit into Microsoft's tireless push for Windows Live.

Cingular announced today that they're turning on their high-speed UMTS and HSDPA network in Atlanta, giving folks in Georgia access to high-speed data through their laptops and streaming video using the LG CU320 and Samsung ZX10 (at right) phones.

This would be interesting if Cingular wasn't so utterly, pathetically and inexcusably behind both Sprint and Verizon when it comes to rolling out high-speed nationwide. Cingular now has between 16 and 20 metro areas, depending on how you define them; Verizon and Sprint have dozens and dozens across the nation. Cingular has two phones, neither of which use the full speed of the HSDPA network. Verizon and Sprint are continually refreshing their lineups with a selection of top-notch, high-speed devices.

Cingular says they'll have more devices, and a wider rollout, by the end of 2006. M-hm. I'll believe it when I see it, guys.

Thanks to PC Magazine editor of reviews Lance Ulanoff for this story!

I’ve been running around our office for the last few weeks doing the “I have fiber and you don’t!" dance. Most staffers are not amused, but I just keep pinching myself over my good fortune. My little neighborhood turned out to be one of the few in the U.S. to have access to FTTP (fiber to the premises). The install was pretty painless and, despite all the work and equipment the Verizon tech put in, completely free. I documented my experience in words and pictures on PCMag.com, but I’ve noticed a couple of additional fiber facts since that article went live.

First, there are no curves: Fiber cable never bends. Instead, at every juncture it curves--at the pole, as it meets my house, in the termination box. Obviously, too tight a turn will break that delicate fiber.

Second, my phone hurts. Verizon put my phone service through FIOS, too. It works fine, but the sound is now sooooo sharp. No idea why.

These things aside, I still recommended fiber for a healthy digestive system and super-high-speed Internet access.

Tune into this week's Gearlog Radio show (available on Friday); we'll be talking about FiOS, and Lance can make you envious of him, too!

At the Bluetooth SIG breakfast today, I got to see the original PepperPad side by side with the new PepperPad 3. I know I can't stop writing about these oddball Web tablets, but it was interesting to see how Pepper Computer has shrunk down their original design. I present this photo for your enjoyment. Click on the photo for a larger image.

By the way, I got some details wrong in my first PepperPad post. The $150 rebate is for the original Pad, not the new model, tragically.

Are you down with OPP? I'll understand if you didn't know that means Object Push Profile. Though Bluetooth is becoming more and more popular in the US, figuring out what Bluetooth devices do is still tough, with jargon like OBEX,  OPP, and A2DP standing in your way.

The Bluetooth SIG's response: five cuddly icons (below) that will clearly show if your Bluetooth device is capable of playing stereo music, using a Bluetooth keyboard, using a headset, printing or transferring files. The SIG hopes for these "experience icons" to start appearing on Bluetooth gadgets soon, and more icons are in the works, including one for laptop modem use (known in the biz as DUN) and one for car-kit compatibility.

I'm waiting for Verizon phones to start featuring Bluetooth experience icons with big red slashes through them. No file transfer for you!

Summer Gadgets Countdown #7: 12-Volt Porta-Blend Portable Blender

I've been looking for a portable blender for awhile now, and I finally came across this one. Why, you ask? Well, there have been many times when I travel to the beach, a game, or the park, and just feel like sipping a margarita. Of course, in public places they'd have to be non-alcoholic, but hey...no one will know.

Design: Made by Vector, the Porta-Blend Portable Blender plugs right into your vehicle's cigarette lighter or other 12-volt source. It's made of impact-resistant plastic.

Features: It can crush ice, chop nuts, mix frozen drinks and more. Won't drain your vehicle's battery due to its low amperage draw of less than 6 amps. There's a weighted base that stabilizes the blender, just in case you're prone to spills. Includes an extra long 10 ft. power cord.
 

How It Works: Looks like you just plug it in, press power, and you're good to go!

Price: The Porta-Blend Portable Blender sells for $24.99 at the VectorStore, or if you prefer to buy from Amazon.com for $49.95.

Lovin' Factor (1-10): 9

[the image was prettier on Amazon.com]

Tune into this week's Gearlog Radio show (available on Friday), to hear Jenn's pick for gadget of the week!

In case what today is doesn't ring a bell, it's June 14th: Flag Day. It's a day when Americans are all supposed to celebrate and show respect for the red, white, and blue. If you weren't paying attention in history class, then you may not know that Betsy Ross, a seamstress for President George Washington, made the U.S.'s first flag.

In celebration of our independence, SRM Entertainment Ltd. (a toy and gift manufacturing and marketing company), is introducing The WAVE. No, it's not a country-wide wave that you do at ball games. The WAVE is the first windless, self waving flag. Just press the button on the flagpole's base and the flag will start waving on its own. Not to mention, it also plays three patriotic songs: The Star Spangled Banner, My Country 'Tis of Thee and Stars and Stripes Forever.

The WAVE stands over 17 inches tall, and the company says that it's a great gift for holiday barbecues. Hey, you could put it right next to that Ball Park Hot Dog Grill of yours. 

Here's for the real celebration: included with every The WAVE is the Stars and Stripes' history, folklore and a trivia quiz. What more could you ask for?

It comes with three AA batteries and thankfully, volume control so you don't bother your neighbors.

Purchase The Wave for around $29.99 at mass market retailers such as Toys 'R Us, K-Mart, Wal-Mart, and Target (not available online).