(Credit:
Tandberg)
Those of us who frequently work from home aren't necessarily anxious for video phones to become commonplace, mostly because that would mean we'd have to make ourselves semi-presentable. Still, we can't help but wonder why this technology has never taken off.
Tandberg is one company that hasn't given up hope, with plans to develop a VoIP video phone for the business market. Its E20 is designed to provide "CD quality audio with DVD quality video," integrating a 5-megapixel digital camera above a 10.6-inch display. The device, which also includes a speakerphone and other features for multimedia presentations, is expected to hit the market early next year, according to Slippery Brick. Which can mean only one thing: It may be time to get new PJs.
(Credit:
Crave Asia)
Despite the fact that VoIP has become a popular tool for long-distance communications, its phones have not gained much traction. Perhaps the cost is simply too high for a single-function device as most PCs provide the same voice quality for free.
The Yealink IP Media Phone, however, is more than just a VoIP device. In fact, the Chinese company tries to shove everything but the kitchen sink into the sleek clamshell phone, which is available in a choice of four colors (black, red, blue, and green). Besides being able to handle up to six conventional landlines, the phone sports a 7-inch screen that does more than show your friend's hairy facade during video-conferencing.
The IP Media Phone can play H.264, H.263, and MPEG-4 videos, making it compatible with IPTV as well as video-on-demand services. Possibly a first for a handset, there is an integrated keyboard that works with the built-in Web browser for surfing, instant messaging, SMS, and e-mail. The display also doubles as a digital photo frame that can be programmed to show a slide show while MP3 music files play in the background.
No pricing details are available at this time, but if "all in one" can be used to describe a teleconferencing device, then the Yealink IP Media phone fits the bill. (Get more CommunicAsia 2008 coverage here.)
(Source: Crave Asia)
(Credit:
Engadget)
Providing that you're not still calling home to ask for money, mom might actually appreciate a video phone for Mother's Day even if you're sporting the same mullet from college. And if she doesn't, you'll at least have a neat conversation piece in the "Ojo Shadow Video Phone" from WorldGate.
The device, which looks like a gangling-adolescent version of some long-necked laptops we've seen lately, is making its U.S. debut on the Home Shopping Network (don't laugh). Engadget points out that the $500 price for a pair might be a deal breaker, but don't change the channel just yet. We hear there are some great HSN deals coming up on oriental rugs.
(Credit:
Electronista)
Recent products from Japan's NTT DoCoMo continue to reflect that country's aging population, as we saw the other day with a phone created for the elderly or others hard of hearing. Its latest offering is aimed at seniors who might not be able to use a handset at all.
DoCoMo's new video phone device stays connected to NTT's broadband cellular network for health care and emergency situations, according to Electronista. Homebound patients, for example, can contact their doctors and show them their conditions on the device's 7-inch display, which also serves as a touch screen that can be used to dial out. For emergencies, the system comes with a remote that features a large red button that will automatically dial a pre-programmed number.
It could come in handy for anyone who's fallen and can't get up.
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