The Tech Futurologist: 06/03/09

Wednesday, June 3, 2009

"Leaked" Fido 2009 Roadmap Points at $99 4GB iPhone with iChat

http://cache.gawker.com/assets/images/2009/06/custom_1243976053721_fido-leak-16a.jpg

We talked about 4, 8, 16 and 32GB models for the iPhone 3G (3rd-Gen) Summer 2009 line before, and now BGR is pointing at a new $99 iPhone 4GB with iChat AV.

They claim that this image comes from an allegedly leaked Fido network presentation. According to their source, the Canadian network provider will sell a three-year contract $99 iPhone with 4GB, Quadband GSM, HSDPA 850/1900/2100, 2.0MP camera, and video calling via iChat. The slide actually says that the image is "not the actual product."

While I have no problem in believing that the iPhone 3G Summer 2009 screens are real, I have a hard time believing this. However, the news are in line with Engadget's "trusted" source, so maybe something is cooking.

Like always, follow our first rule of rumors: Never believe in them. We all will know soon enough. [BGR]

Sony announces new PS3 motion controller

Sony just announced the rumored new motion controller for the PS3 -- the prototype looks like a wand with a color-changing ball on top. It's designed to work in conjunction with the PlayStation Eye, with the wand overlaid on-screen with a weapon or tool. Unlike Microsoft's Project Natal, Sony says they've learned "some experiences need buttons," which is why there's still a controller involved. The system is said to be "sub-millimeter" precise, and it was demoed drawing and playing a shooter -- it's sort of the middle ground between Natal and Wii Motion Plus. Sony says it'll launch in the spring of 2010, but we don't know what pricing will be like yet.

1+1=3 Design

1+1=3 A Meeting Between Two Creates Something New
Beckmans School of Design showcase

This year, the final-year students in Product Design at Beckmans College of Design have created an alternative meeting place in Greenhouse at the Stockholm Furniture Fair.
The students have created a space to inspire informal gatherings of people, in the same way as you would meet spontaneously about town - sitting at the edge of a monument, on a front porch or a flight of stairs. The furniture in the showcase are based on indivdual briefs to create a specific type of furniture. In contrast to what is usually the case in Greenhouse, where many prototypes are for view only, the students have encouraged the visitors to interact with the furniture and the space. As a a bonus this year, the third-year students have collaborated with the second-year Advertising and Graphic Design students in creating a catalogue and a film.