By Katharine Czechowski…

Yahoo! and Samsung Make the Jump across the Pond

Yahoo! and Samsung have partnered up to bring a new line of Samsung TV’s equipped with Yahoo’s integrated widget based Internet TV service, Yahoo! Connected TV, to 26 European countries. According to Yahoo! the new partnership will provide customers with access to the Internet from their TV sets in the form of widgets and provide developers a new channel to create and distribute new apps to millions of living rooms across Europe. Available widgets include social media applications like Facebook and Twitter as well as widget applications for games, sports, news, music, photo viewing and online shopping. This is Yahoo’s latest step inits global distribution strategy to provide Yahoo! Connected TV services to new and emerging markets through various partnerships with TV manufacturers. A full list of widget applications is available at www.connectedtv.yahoo.com.

All You Need Is Sun: Logitech’s Solar Powered Keyboard

For the tree-hugger in all of us, Logitech releases its eco friendly wireless keyboard that runs solely on sunlight and artificial light sources by way of its integrated solar panel, making power bricks and charging cables unnecessary. With Logitech Advanced 2.4 GHz wireless connectivity with included 128 bit AES encryption, the Logitech solar powered keyboard minimizes delays and dropouts as well as included highest levels of security available. The light weight Logitech Wireless Solar Keyboard is 1/3-Inch thick and designed to minimize its footprint with its PVC free construction and fully recyclable packaging. According to Logitech’s website the keyboard does require a continuous light source (indoor or outdoor) to charge but can hold a charge for at least three months. A downloadable app is available for a Lux meter that alerts users when more power is needed to eliminate any power shortages. For a suggested retail price of $79.99 and availability in the US and Europe the Logitech Solar Keyboard K750 is expected to be available for retail November 2010.

A Chore is Still a Chore No Matter How You Spin it: Spin & Go Mop

Designed for the proverbial procrastinator and fanatical germaphobe, the Spin & Go Touchless Cleaning System is part mop, part duster with included pedal powered wringer meant to “spin” the dirt and grime off the machine washable microfiber mop head. With its rotating mop head and light weight, adjustable ergonomic design, the Spin & Go provides hands free, eco-friendly cleaning “fun” for all including grandma. The Spin & Go is available online for $49.95.

Schlage’s Phone Managed Security Blanket

Monitor your home’s locks, lights, thermostats, cameras and children all from your phone, Android phone that is. In a step towards a more mobile “remote home management”, Schalge introduces a phone app on the Android Market in conjunction with Schlage’s LINK Starter Kit which includes a wireless keyboard or deadbold, remote control lighting module and everything one would need to setup a wireless Z-Wave Network to turn a home into a certifiable Fort Knox. The Schlage system supports an unlimited number of IP network cameras and up to 232 Z-Wave enabled devices, all covered under a monthly subscription fee of $8.99. The Schlage app is available for the Apple iPhone, Research in Motion’s BlackBerry and devices running Microsoft’s Windows Mobile 5 or higher.

Orb’s Acclamation Plan for Internet TV

Watch online shows through Internet based content providers like HULU, Netflix and more on your existing TV and phone through Orb TV. Designed for easy integration Orb TV utilizes your TV, PC and Smart Phone to acclimate you to the possibilities of Internet TV options without having to drop a huge amount of money for a built-in Internet TV like Google’s Google TV. The Orb TV app downloaded to your smartphone acts as your TV remote, the Orb TV unit plugged into your PC acts as a media server in conjunction with the Orb TV software allows customers to search the global index for shows and movies offered without the requirement to specify the source of the content. Orb TV is available online for $99.

LG’s Vortex Eliminates Dialing with your Face

Launched on November 18th, LG’s 3.2” touch screen Vortex 3G smartphone is powered by Android 2.2, comes preloaded with Bing Search and Bing Maps, Virtual QWERTY Keyboard with Swype technology installed, Bluetooth 2.1 capabilities and expandable memory up to 32GB with micro sd card slot is the latest Verizon phone to hit Verizon Wireless Stores. With all the bells and whistles that come along with the LG Vortex like Visual Voicemail, Skype mobile and access to a slew of Android Apps through the Android Market the most interesting feature is the Proximity sensor that locks the touchscreen to reduce the chances of onscreen button mashing with ones face while talking on the phone. A feature that both the caller and called will appreciate. The LG Vortex is available for $79.99 after $100 rebate with a two year customer agreement.

On-Demand Movies on PS3: Sony Expands Entertainment Offerings with VUDU

Sony and VUDU have teamed up to bring over 4,000 on-demand movies in true 1080p HD format cinema quality entertainment to couch potatoes in the US loyal to the Playstation Brand. New releases will be available the same day they are released to DVD and Blu-ray Disc in addition to a collection of titles available for $2 for a two night rental. The launch of VUDU services is scheduled for November 23, 2010 making the PS3 system the first and only system dedicated gaming functionality to offer this service. With the PS3’s ability to access the major access points of entertainment from Games, Television, Movies, Internet Browsing and Social Networking it is becoming a hub of various entertainment options.

Sew 3D: Brother’s 10 Needle Embroidery Machine

3D video technology is popular without a doubt and it has even made its way into the Brother International Corporation promotional launch video of their new six generation 10 needles embroidery machine. Faster more productive than ever with features like New InnovaChrome LED color thread system which makes thread selection easier and limits operator supervision; InnovEye Technology and Up-Close Viewer which is compared to having a built-in camera above the needle; Grid Function which assists with embroidering designs onto pre-made items; Five Full Spectrum LED Lights equivalent to seven LED  lamps shining onto the work area and PE-Design NEXT which makes it easier to manage multiple machines through one interface. The Entrepreneur Pro PR-1000 combines today’s technology to grab the attention of an entire industry.

The new Rhino 5200

It’s a professional model but don’t let that scare you, it’s just fine for anyone who wantsclear, durable labels that put a professional finish on whatever project you’re workingon. The RHINO 5200 runs on 6 AA batteries or an optional, rechargeable lithium ionbattery that reduces AA battery waste and expense. It also features a battery-lifeindicator and auto-shutoff to maximize battery life.