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Mobile applications are turning into big business, and Nokia is looking to launch a few start-ups on their way.

Nokia's developer arm, Forum Nokia, announced the results of its Mobile Rules contest Wednesday night at San Jose City Hall. Nine companies were chosen, representing four application categories, best business plan, and four winners of the best technology innovation.

The winners were judged by a panel of Nokia executives, venture capitalists, and media representatives. They'll get a chance to pitch their ideas to Nokia's higher-ups and the venture capital community. With smartphones and mobile phones growing more and … Read more

So, I'm not quite able to visualize exactly how this gadget works, but I kind of want one. It'll cost you $10. I really like pineapples, and this is supposed to work like a corkscrew for them. Apparently, you get yourself a pineapple, chop the top off, and then core and slice it with this wacky little tool. Then, presumably, you can eat the pineapple slices.

But here's the best part. After coring the pineapple, I can use the empty hull as a (one-time use) vessel for my favorite tropical drinks. I'd go for blue whales, … Read more

You'd think summer had already arrived, given the recent spate of frolick-worthy products ranging from pool-dwelling jellyfish to splash-proof LCDs, not to mention at least two types of iPod-enabled grills.

But if all you want to do is enjoy your music wirelessly in the open air--and feel good about it, ecologically--then something like the "Outdoor Wireless Solar Speaker" might be in order. This cord-free acoustic device can work up to 150 feet from your stereo or computer, lasting as long as eight hours after each solar charge.

Just be sure that your microwave and land lines don'… Read more

The whole all-in-one concept seen so often in computer and electronics equipment is hardly confined to high-tech hardware. In fact, here's an example where "convergence" has touched transportation as well--aquatically, no less.

The "Dockitjet" combines a jet ski and speedboat into a one seagoing vehicle that looks like something right out of a 007 movie. An infltable watercraft serves as a dock that its manufacturer says can fit practically any jet-powered ski in just minutes and comfortably seat up to six people, according to Gizmag.

This sounds fine, if you're the more adventurous type. … Read more