Here’s a device that’s supposedly to rival BlackBerry. At least in the name.
It’s not a smartphone, or even a mobile phone. Categorized as “mobile communicator”, this very-typical-Japanese gadget is equipped with limited wireless capabilities than support up to four devices connected at the same time for email, chat, and online games.

Sounds pretty good, but the big catch is you have to be in a very small 10 meter radius in order to use that. Even the messages are limited to 64 characters, shorter than SMS. Even the screen is monochrome, as in the last century.

Seeing from the design, it’s aimed to young audiences who likes cute stuffs. Oh, there’s an also virtual pet inside. Isn’t Tamagotchi dead yet? It’s 2008 already, Mates!!!

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Popularity: 53% [?]

Finally, non-threatening-looking robot toys that’s safe for everyone in the family. Ultimate WALL-E and iDance are inspired by WALL-E, animated movie by Disney that will hit theaters this summer. Okay, it may not be as advanced as i-Robot, but at least you got something that can be enjoyed by the whole family - and maybe some neighbors and your office colleagues.

The iDance is basically a dancing boombox that can “sing” and “dance”, maybe similar to Sony Rolly. However the cream of the crop is the Ultimate WALL-E. This sophisticated toy features 10 motors to provide advanced movement and animation. You can program it using a remote that’s very easy to use, even by a kid. In addition, it has follow-me and voice activated mode. Ultimate WALL-E is also equipped with emotion states and sensors to allow him to detect people and navigate around obstacles. You can bring it home for $189.99 later this fall.

If you don’t like the Martian robot explorer idea, you can pick up flying TInker Bell toy later. In the mean time, I’ll find a new “planet” that needs exploring.

Popularity: 49% [?]