World's First Bionic Finger Reminds Me of Something I did

Over 30 people are currently outfitted with ProDigits, bionic fingers that can actually grab and pick up objects in a way that previous prostheses couldn't. You've got to see these in action.

ProDigits can be controlled two ways: by myoelectric sensors that register muscle signals from the palm or the remnant finger, or by a pressure sensitive switch from a force resistive sensor. The degree of functionality they give back to people is truly incredible, as you can see in the video below (patient demonstrations start at 1:18).

It's especially cool and gratifying to see technology used to help people get their normal lives back.

Vostro V13: Dell's New $450, 0.65-Inch Ultraportable

There aren't many details available about the Dell Vostro V13 other than the fact that it's an ultra-thin, ultra-light ultraportable with a seemingly very reasonable $450 price tag.

The V13's puny 3.5 pounds may include eSATA, Ethernet, USB and a card reader, but we'll just have to wait for confirmation on the details. [Electronista]

Update: The V13 may be aimed toward business travelers, but based on the details, it wouldn't be bad for the rest of us either:
• 13.3-inch screen
• An ultra-low voltage Core 2 processor
• 4GB of DDR3 RAM pre-loaded
• Bluetooth and 802.11g/n
• An integrated webcam and microphone

Not bad, though it looks like folks in New Zealand are getting the short end of the stick for some reason, since the expected price there converts to about $850. [PC World]