If you’ve ever stared at your smartphone or tablet and wished that it had a physical keyboard, well…get a Blackberry. Should that not be an option, here’s the next best thing: the Universal Bluetooth Pocket Keyboard by Japanese electronics brand, Elecom. As the name explicitly states, it’s a wireless, pocket-sized keyboard that connects to your phone or tablet via Bluetooth. It’s powered by a single AAA battery and turns on automatically once the lid (which conveniently also doubles as a stand for your device) of it’s compact design is opened. There’s even a protective carrying case thrown in for good measure. Perfect for those who need to get some work done on their smartphone or tablet while jet-setting around the world.
And, just in case you’re wondering, it’s compatible with iOs devices, Android devices, and computers running Windows or Linux.
Still haven’t upgraded to an iPhone 5 yet? Then I’ve got good news for you as Finish design house Marimekko is about to drop a handful of iPhone 4/4S cases baring some of the company’s signature patterns and prints. The series is split between two different styles of cases. For those who love both loathe color and love circular patterns there’s the Kaivo, Karakola and Rasymatto. Fans of eye meltingly colorful floral patterns can choose from the Unikko, Siirtolapuutarha or Satula. Each case is made from 100% polycarbonate (the stuff that makes packaging ridiculously hard to open), and should be arriving at Marimekko stores and retailers soon. If you can’t wait to snag one in person, however, they can be pre-ordered now through Marimekko’s online store.
When it comes to mobile accessories, the ususal suspects of brands come to mind. When I was at Project, I was happy to discover a not-so-new brand that was new to me. Launched thirteen years ago in OC, Incipio started way back when Palms were popular – I know, blast from the past, huh?
Incipio makes anything to go with mobile products and sees their products as an extension of style and a means for people to express themselves. One of my favorite products that I saw at the booth was the origami iPad case – an iPad cover that you can fold different ways to prop up your iPad.
I also really loved the selvedge denim laptop cases.
My favorite by far was the Off the Grid back-up battery and case for the iPhone. Incipio was gracious enough to give me one to try out and I love it! It saved my life (and my phone’s battery life) on many occasions in NY during Fashion Week.
One of the fun project Incipio worked on is a collaboration with professional skateboarder Greg Lutzka. Greg went with a throwback feel for the series of iPhone covers he helped design. The clever part about the project is that each case comes packaged in a brown paper bag – the way we used to take our lunch to school back in the day – and also includes a napkin and plastic fork and knife.
You may not have heard of Case Scenario but I bet you’ve heard of Pantone, Keith Haring and House of Holland – have I got your attention now? Thought so.
Case Scenario holds the license for Pantone, Keith Haring and House of Holland and you can see the iconic imagery emblazoned on iPhone cases and iPad cases and portfolios. Like anyone with an interest and/or background in graphic design, I’m obsessed with Pantone. I love the clean look of the color cars and they bring me back to the good ‘ol days of picking out ink colors for screen-printing my Mama and Cybelle t-shirts. While not all the colors are showcased, there’s a pretty good variety of Pantone colors to chose from for your iPhone or iPad cases. My favorite iPad case is the flap bag which I would actually use as a clutch purse or a “bag inside a bag” that would be perfect to keep your things organized in a large tote.
The Keith Haring collection features many of the artists iconic designs brought to life on iPhone cases and iPad covers. I especially love the monochromatic Keith Haring cases that are reminiscent of old school marble notebook patterns. For the House of Holland collection – there are three cases to choose from all with bold patterns and vibrant colors. There’s definitely no misplacing your phone with these cases.
Have you ever wanted to literally stop traffic? Not because you’re wearing some amazing outfit…but because you’ve blinded all the drivers with your shiny headphones? If so, consider this your lucky day as Monster, purveyor of high quality audio products, is all set to drop an extremely eye catching set of headphones; the Diamond Tears Edge..
Designed in collaboration with multi-talented engineer, songwriter, producer and actor J.Y. Park (founder of JYP Entertainment and the man behind a slew of international radio hits), the Diamond Tears Edge features a crystal like reflective design meant to reflect (pun totally intended) the crystal clear audio you’re likely to hear while wearing these headphones. They’ve got soft ear cushions to ensure the highest amount of comfort possible, and include a ControlTalk Universal Cable and Apple ControlTalk Cable so you can make calls through your headphones.
Of course, like Monster’s other high end headphones, this mix of beauty and technology doesn’t come cheap. They will be available soon in Monster’s online store and authorized dealers for a cool $350.
