News Byte

FitBit’s New (Non-Wearable) Device: The Wi-Fi Smart Scale

Fitbit, maker of the popular fitness device that clips onto clothing and tracks activity and sleep patterns, is attempting to set itself apart in the increasingly crowded fitness-tech market with the introduction of a new, Wi-Fi-equipped scale. The Aria Wi-Fi Smart Scale measures weight, body-fat percentage and body-mass index, and wirelessly transfers the data to users’ FitBit accounts; information from the scale is also accessible through FitBit’s iPhone and Android apps. First announced at CES earlier this year, the $129.95 scale goes on sale today on Fitbit’s Web site.

With Jobs Definitely Mulling Appearance at iPad Event, Let's Hope the Focus Is on the Product

According to several sources close to the situation, Apple CEO Steve Jobs–who is on a health-related leave from the company–is definitely considering an appearance at its big iPad 2 event tomorrow. But the possibility–which would be a big sensation at the San Francisco gathering–is also just as definitely not confirmed as yet, stressed sources. In any case, if he does appear, let’s hope everyone can pay more attention to what bells and whistles the iPad 2 has rather than how his jeans are fitting.

MacBook Air Rises to Top of Consumer Reports Ratings

More good press for the MacBook Air. Consumer Reports updated its computer ratings earlier this week to include the machine, and while it had some criticisms, it ranked the 11-inch Air and its 13-inch sibling at the top of their respective categories and gave both machines a “recommended” rating.

T-Mobile’s HD2 Has Great Screen, Weak Software

The hardware for T-Mobile’s HD2 is attractive but overall, the smartphone is significantly inferior to its touch-screen rivals.
tmobile

Fitbit Sees How You Run, Walk and Sleep

A tiny $99 tracking device knows when you are walking, running and even sleeping.
fitbit

The Latest Kindle: Bigger, Not Better, Than Its Sibling

While the larger Kindle DX performs its promised tasks adequately, its size and weight make it awkward and tiring to hold for long periods of reading.
kindledx

Apple's Steve Jobs: "I Have Decided to Take a Medical Leave of Absence"

Trading in Apple shares was halted this afternoon when the company announced that Apple CEO Steve Jobs is taking a medical leave of absence until the end of June. Apple COO Tim Cook will handle day-to-day operations in his absence. And Jobs is to remain involved in major strategic decisions. Jobs broke the news to investors in the following memo…

Apple’s Steve Jobs: “I Have Decided to Take a Medical Leave of Absence”

Trading in Apple shares was halted this afternoon when the company announced that Apple CEO Steve Jobs is taking a medical leave of absence until the end of June. Apple COO Tim Cook will handle day-to-day operations in his absence. And Jobs is to remain involved in major strategic decisions. Jobs broke the news to investors in the following memo…

When You Want Your Own Virtual Trainer

If you’re looking for a fun way to get in shape, the Balance Board will do the trick. Like the Wii, its activities encourage all sorts of people to use it, marking yet another smart move from Nintendo.
wii-fit