PowerPage Podcast episode 158 (“Here come the wearables”) is now available for your listening pleasure:
- iTunes Preview
- iTunes (opens in iTunes)
- Direct download (AAC, 28.1 MB)
- Direct download (MP3, 31.1 MB)
In this episode Rob Parker and I discuss the emerging trend of wearable computers and we riff on the two leading devices: the Nike+ FuelBand and the Fitbit Ultra (among others). These are some of the wearables that we discuss on this episode:
- Nike+ FuelBand ($149) – Wristband for monitoring steps and calories with Bluetooth sync to iOS app and my current favorite. Here’s my review.
- Fitbit Ultra ($99) – Clip format monitors activity, stairs, and sleep. Has automatic wireless sync if the cradle dock is plugged in via USB.
- Motorola MOTOACTV ($249) – Wristwatch format with GPS, heart rate monitor, Bluetooth and music controls. Schwing!
- Jawbone Up ($99) – Wristband format monitors activity and sleep. Rev. 1 didn’t live up to expectations and is getting a reboot.
- Pebble eWatch ($99) – Connects to iPhone and Android devices via Bluetooth and has an API. This $10 million+ Kickstarter project is completely sold out.
- Supermechanical Twine ($99) – Web-connected module with temperature and vibration sensors tied to a cloud-based service. Will talk to Pebble eWatch.
- Google Project Glass – Easily the most ambitious wearable, these glasses provide a full HUD interface to just about everything. Check out the video.
- MotionX Sleep (free) – Promising iOS app with sleep monitoring.
- Nike+ GPS ($2) – iOS app to map your runs and track your progress.
- LoseIt (free) – iOS app that integrates with Fitbit sensor.
Here’s what’s on our Macs this week:
Jason
- iRig MIX ($99) – Killer portable DJ mixer that travels light (10 oz.) and works with one or two iPhone, iPods or iPads. Stay tuned for my review.
- TiVo (free) – iOS app that turns your iPad (or iPhone) into mission control for your TiVo.
- TiVo Premier XL4 ($399) – From Weaknees with four (count ’em) tuners.
Rob
- eBay for iPad 2.0 (free) – Amazing reboot of the iPad app, a must-have.
- Witness ($39) – Turns your Mac’s camera into a security cam. View and control Witness from iOS devices.
- DirecTV app for iPad (free) – Watch lots of programming (including some live TV) on your iPad. Check listings and program your DVR. (DirecTV required)
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