Cyber Sport Orbita Mouse review: It's pretty weird

Cyber Sport's Orbita Mouse doesn't want to be just another regular, boring mouse -- and its newness goes way beyond looks. We don't review too many mice around these parts, but this one seemed to call for some special attention, so we've spent the last few days trying to give it our exclusive overload treatment. This is not a mouse you can just unwrap and use, in more ways than one. Read on for our full impressions, and some glorious photos of this little dude in action.
We'll be totally upfront with you: we weren't looking for a better way to mouse. Honestly, at this point, it's like looking for a new way to wear pants -- there might be better options out there, but we're pretty happy with what we've got. That said, the Orbita mouse takes some getting used to, and the learning period is a little frustrating. The mouse is comfortable enough in the hand, and its operation is not completely unlike a traditional mouse, but it's different enough to be annoying when you're trying to continue about your regularly scheduled day while getting used to it. There's a lot of accidental clicking at first, shooting you off to zany ads you'd never normally click, or old, disused bookmarks -- because the entire surface of the mouse is a right-click when pressed. Not fun, but part of the process. That said, the company claims that the mouse makes more a more "freestyle, revolutionary" mousing experience, so we stuck with it.
The Orbita doesn't really need to be gripped or furiously clicked the way an old hat mouse does, and a light touch is called for here. The silicone surface feels quite nice in your hand -- though a lot different from most mice. The clicking sound that the Orbita makes is also quite pleasing to our ears. The basic configuration (which can be customized) we found to be the most intuitive with repeated use -- you push down on the surface of the mouse for a left click, rotate the entire mouse to scroll, and squeeze it for right clicks. The scroll feature is a standout -- it's far more comfortable than you'd think -- and makes for a much faster experience than traditional mice. Once you've spent some time with the mouse -- we suggest giving it a full day, at least -- you really can begin to feel the advantage of it.
We'll admit that when we got busy in the midst of day one, we threw the Orbita back onto its dock to our left and reverted back to our old standby, just for the sake of getting things done in a quicker, more comfortable manner. By the second days of use, however, we were really zooming around with the Orbita, and were able to stop thinking about how to use it. And we'll admit it: we were fairly impressed with it in action. There is also a wide array of customization possible -- different profiles for different tasks, and the 3-axis control over 3D objects is impressive. Where it shines, however, is surprisingly as an every day, regular-use mouse. The mouse never once died on us despite hours of usage -- partially due to the fact that it automatically shuts down after about five minutes of idle time, so we figure this isn't likely to be an issue for anyone.

Wrap up
There are a few drawbacks to be considered -- it's not the cheapest mouse, at around $99. If you're not into re-learning how to do things you already know how to do, maybe you want to leave well enough alone. The hub / charging dock needs to be plugged in during use, of course, and it's not exactly small, so this mouse isn't particularly awesome in on-the-go situations, either, and it's probably not going to be big with gamers. Still, if you're a fan of new things, and you don't mind laying down the cash, it may be worth checking out -- but don't blame us if everybody laughs at your crazy new-fangled "mouse."


( Engadget )

• Micro Innovations's bamboo lineup might just save the world... from generic computer peripherals

SteelSeries World of Warcraft Mouse equipped for hands-on impressions, +14 agility

We finally got our hands on SteelSeries' World of Warcraft MMO Gaming Mouse, and took the thing for a little spin across Azeroth. After hiring a rogue to open the complicated packaging and marveling at the mouse's incomprehensible runes, we hooked up the mouse over USB and were treated to the ambient light show. The "cracks" across the back of the mouse glow with subtle colors, though we wish they could light up a bit more dramatically and actually convey game status info -- but we're boring like that. Compared to most mice, the WoW mouse is rather large and "hand supporting," leaving behind the typical friction and frame of reference that a trailing hand and wrist usually supply. It's nice and comfortable, but there's a bit of a trade off, though overall we found the mouse to be incredibly "right" in responsiveness and accuracy. More impressions after the break.
The real draw here, of course, is the 15 individually programmable buttons, which can be assigned to up to 160 interchangeable macros with the downloadable Windows-only software. SteelSeries claims to be "working with Blizzard on the development strategy for a Mac solution" which sounds like they've got a whole lot of nothing ready for the Mac-inclined. Right now they recommend setting up the mouse with the third party ControllerMate software.
That's a shame, because the software is the real strength here. You can set up 10 different profiles for your various alts, play styles and situations, with buttons set to dismount, auto target, target self, toggle bags... you get the picture. Unfortunately, with all that complexity comes a bit of a learning curve. It took our WoW-addled intern two hours of running Heroic Nexus to get used to using all the buttons, and he found that even then he was mainly just using two of the macros, with the rest being forgotten more often than not. A heavy macro user could probably use the mouse all by its lonesome and rid their reliance on a keyboard, but that would take a certain amount of skill and determination. The real strength here is Battlegrounds and raids, but it's clear the mouse isn't really about making WoW more accessible or "easy," rather about enabling power users to kick even more ass. The mouse is available now for $99.

( Engadget )

Kensington SlimBlade trackball for the smooth operator

Yep, Kensington is still making desktop trackballs for all of you out there still rocking your original Macworld '92 T-shirts, and its latest model is actually quite attractive -- the SlimBlade trackball features a minimalist low-profile base with four buttons and a ruby red ball. The drivers are equally slick, displaying mode changes on screen in an HUD, letting you know when you've flipped from cursor to media control to view control profiles. Not a bad way to spend $129 if you're into trackballs, we suppose -- and we wholeheartedly support any product whose press release claims it'll turn us into "smooth operators." Video after the break.


( Engadget Chinese )

The Jet Mouse Locks In On That Promotion [Peripherals]

That sterile, beige mouse just isn't getting the job done for you. How do we know? We just know. The USB Aircraft Mouse, packed with enough plastic, LEDs and USB-connectivity to only be made by our friends at Brando, will turn your mouse hand into the best fighter pilot in the office. If only the thing we wireless, you could perform a radical flyby on a coworker's monitor, establishing yourself as the alpha and the omega of spreadsheets while showing the world what upper middle management is really made of.


( Gizmodo, The Gadget Blog )

Razer offers up Mamba wireless gaming mouse, Carcharias headset

It's been a few months now since we've heard anything from Razer, but the outfit's hitting us up with two new pieces here at CES that are definitely worth a look. Starting things off is yet another gaming mouse, this one coined the Mamba. It features 2.4GHz "gaming grade" wireless technology, an optional, detachable cord, first-in-class polling rates of 1-millisecond, a "world's fastest" 5,600DPI Precision 3.5G Laser sensor and a battery life / DPI stage indicator. Moving on, we've got the Carcharias circumaural audio headset, which rocks a fully adjustable headband, inline remote and a 3-meter braided cable. The devices are set to start shipping in February and January, respectively, at $129.99 / $79.99. The release is hosted up in full after the break.RAZER™ UNVEILS NEW PRODUCT SUITE FOR GAMERS
New products reveal renewed focus on product design and proprietary technologies
Las Vegas, NV – January 8, 2009 – Today, at the Consumer Electronics Show, Razer™
unveiled a cutting edge of gaming peripherals including the Razer Mamba™, a high precision
wireless laser gaming mouse, and the Razer Carcharias™, a circumaural audio headset. Product
demonstrations will be held at the South Hall, meeting room 35166.
This new suite of Razer products will give gamers the competitive edge and allow for enhanced
game play for longer periods of time. With an emphasis on product design and a focus on
proprietary Razer technologies, these latest products will help gamers amplify performance levels
with faster response times, increased precision and offer unique design features.
"The best entertainment experiences happen when you are fully immersed in your game, and
hardware shouldn't get in the way of that," said Razer president Robert "Razerguy" Krakoff.
"We've put every bit of advantage available in the hands of our gamers with the new Razer
Mamba, and the Razer Carcharias. These products are for gamers who understand how minimal
wireless lag time, high quality audio communications and increased precision can mean the
difference between winning and losing."
PRODUCT OVERVIEW:
The Razer Mamba™
Razer has unleashed the full potential of gaming mice by designing an ergonomic, lag free
gaming mouse with 2.4GHz gaming grade wireless technology, making it the fastest mouse both
on and off the cord. With dual mode wired/wireless functionality, the Razer Mamba lets users
immediately and seamlessly switch from wired to wireless play. With first in class polling rates at
1ms as compared to traditional wireless mice that poll at 8ms, players will have virtually lag free
game play.
The Razer Mamba also includes a host of features like Razer Synapse™ on-board memory that
lets gamers store and bring their mouse settings wherever they go. And the world's fastest
5600DPI Razer Precision™ 3.5G Laser sensor, the Razer Mamba wireless gaming mouse lets
gamers move with lightning speed and precision to easily escape from becoming prey.
Cost: US- $129.99; Europe- €129.99
Available: Razerzone.com Feb, 2009, Worldwide Q1 2009
Features:
• Detachable seven-foot, lightweight, braided cord
• Battery life & DPI stage indicator
• Ultra-large non-slip Hyperesponse™ buttons
• Ergonomic design
• Zero-acoustic Ultraslick™ Teflon feet
Specifications:
• Gaming Grade Wireless Technology
• Dual Mode Wired/Wireless Functionality
• Razer Synapse™ On-board Memory
• 5600DPI Razer Precision™ 3.5G Laser sensor
• 1000Hz Ultrapolling™ / 1ms response rate
• Up to 200 inches per second*/ 50g acceleration
• Approximate size: 128mm x 70mm x 42.5mm
• Battery Life: 14hrs (continuous gaming); 72hrs (normal gaming usage)
*Depends on surface used
The Razer Carcharias™
The Razer Carcharias is the essence of uncompromised comfort and audio clarity. The Razer
Carcharias contain certain key features focused on comfort, like a circumaural shape to allow full
over-ear coverage, interchangeable ear pads for a custom fit and a fully adjustable headband.
The Razer Carcharias headset boasts superior audio clarity, deep, thumping bass and a noise
filtering microphone. An inline remote lets users quickly and easily adjust volume and mute the
microphone.
Cost: US- $79.99; Europe- €79.99
Available: Razerzone.com Jan, 2009, Worldwide Q1 2009
Headphone:
• Frequency Response: 20 - 20,000 Hz
• Impedance: 32 _ at 1kHz
• Sensitivity (@1kHz, 1V/Pa): 102 ± 4dB at 1 kHzMax.
• Input Power: 200 mW
• Drivers: 40 mm, with neodymium Magnets
Microphone:
• Frequency Response: 50 – 16,000 Hz
• Sensitivity( @1kHz, 1V/Pa): -37 ± 4dB
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 50 dB
• Pick-up pattern: Unidirectional
• Cable: 3 meters, Braided Fiber Sheath
• Connector: 3.5 mm jack (headphone and mic)

( Engadget )

Logitech axes 15% of salaried workforce as it restructures

Logitech may be bringing the heat at CES, but that doesn't mean it's not feeling the pinch. Alongside a few new pieces of kit, the outfit has also announced that it will be undergoing a serious restructuring as it moves forward. According to president and chief executive officer Gerald P. Quindlen: "During the December quarter, the retail environment deteriorated significantly, and moreover, we expect the economic environment to worsen in the coming months and we are therefore taking significant actions to align our cost structure with what is likely to be an extended downturn." Sadly, those "actions" involve sending home some 15% of its salaried workforce worldwide, and it's expecting the savings from all of this to show in Q1 of fiscal year 2010. Ouch.

( Engadget )

• logitech 's Harmony 1100 remote is more touchscreen, less buttons

Video: Z-Nano Mouse is world's smallest and most absurd

Even if we could verify the claim, what's the point? The world's smallest mouse is likely to be as useful as the world's smallest keyboard. The Z-Nano USB mouse measures 42 x 21 x 17.65-mm and, amazingly, includes itty bitty left- and right-click and up- and down-scroll buttons. Available now for $60. See it in action after the break.


( BBGadgets )

Cyber Sport's Orbita Mouse is a revolution

We've seen the Cyber Sport Orbita Mouse bouncing around the Internets for about a year in search of a manufacturer. Now they've got it, with a corresponding January 2009 retail delivery date to match. The big selling point on this 800 DPI mouse is the use of a spinning scroll-wheel that replaces the typical left and right mouse buttons (push down for left-click, squeeze for right) -- it's like a Griffin PowerMate riding optical wheels. That gives you 3-axis control over objects in 3D be they wireframe models, the world according to Google Earth, or a BFG 9000. It also makes for quick scrolling through documents or a low-cost jog dial for frame-by-frame video manipulation. Orbita communicates wirelessly over 2.4GHz "zero lag" RF to the usb charging base and includes PC and Mac compatible software to map the mouse to your different applications. $98.50, that's how much -- render of the Orbita docked after the break along with a video of an early prototype. We want.

( The Gadget Site )

• Thanko USB bear gloves don't inhibit your typing, keep palms toasty
• United Keys OLED Display Keyboard and Keypad hands-on

Crazy Never Before Seen Logitech Mutant Mouse Prototypes

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I love Logitech mice, so I actually dug their shameless mouse timeline. Even more awesome, though, are these amazing prototypes that never left their lab, like the three-scroll wheel monstrosity and hockey puck above. They get wonderfully cheeky about them too, saying that the hockey-puck mouse "looked cool but turned out to be less than comfortable." (WINK WINK NUDGE NUDGE.) Here are a few of the more ridiculous ones, but be sure to check out the whole run. It's hard to believe some these even made it off the page, much less into a polished, physical form in some cases. Of course, none of them will ever top my beloved, retired MX500.

Really fantastic. I wish more companies would show us some of their aborted lab creatures. [Blogitech (PDF) via BoingBoing Gadgets]

( Gizmodo, The Gadget Blog )

Logitech serves one-billionth mouse

Look, we're not going to go and get all sappy about Logitech shipping it's billionth mouse. After all, we still prefer our fingers for pointing and keyboards for quick navigation around the ol' computer. Still, a claim of one billion served is always notable, be it computer peripherals or hamburgers. Logitech's very first mouse was the Logitech P4 introduced in 1982. For the very first mouse ever, you'll have to contact Douglas Engelbart, its inventor. Or just click on over the break for pics of the P2 and Engelbarts original toothless sawblade.
Logitech P4



( Engadget )

Logitech G9 Laser Mouse ID Grip takes customization to a new, annoying level

Remember the Logitech G9? The totally boss, customizable gaming mouse with awesome mod possibilities like adjustable weight and LED inserts? Well, the G9 Laser Mouse ID Grip is out and ready to take the mouse-gripping experience to the next level. The ID grip will allow G9 mouse enthusiasts to have any image they want custom printed onto the insert of the mouse. The insert will also give the mouse a somewhat new shape. It's available to order online now -- you upload the image and they'll print and send it your way for $19.99. Seems like maybe Logitech's sold so many mice that they're willing to let anything fly, and we do have some good ideas for this after all.

( IGN )

Crapgadget: thanks for nothing edition

Here in the US of A, we dedicate today to shoving copious quantities of food down our throats, meeting / greeting long lost family members and -- most importantly -- counting our blessings. Here around the Engadget table, we've found five "gadgets" (we're being gracious here) that we're absolutely grateful to not own. In fact, we're thankful that we don't even have to look at these if we don't want to. 'Course, we're betting that you're curious enough to give up that right to ignore in order to see just how pathetic these crapgadgets really are, but we'd recommend waiting at least an hour after your last gluttonous indulgence before clicking the links below. Obviously, we cannot be held responsible for any upchucking.

( Engadget )

• Tiny Wireless Keyboard Doesn't Impede Cuddling [Keyboards]

Targus's Mice for Macs First to Have 4-Way Touch Scrolling [Mice]

Targus has been making peripherals since before sliced bread was invented, but as part of its first line of notebook accessories specifically designed for Macs it's come up with two mice that are the only ones to have four-way touch scroll controls for Macs. They're ergonomic, and both have 1200 dpi sensitivity: the wireless version uses 2.4GHz RF tech, with a micro-receiver that slots into a USB hub or the mouse base for traveling, and the laser mouse connects over Bluetooth. Both are out now, the wireless mouse for $50, and the Bluetooth one for $70. Press release below, alongside news about the Bluetooth presenter that's in the same line. The Bluetooth presenter is apparently the first Mac-specific one you can buy, and is compatible with both Keynote and PowerPoint. It's also got a laser pointer, mouse-control mode and two programmable buttons in addition to its slide control/volume control buttons. It's out now for $80, and is pictured next to the two wireless mice below.

ANAHEIM, Calif., – September 30, 2008 - Targus Inc., maker of the world’s top-selling laptop computer cases and accessories, announced today it is launching its first line of notebook accessories specifically designed for Mac notebook users. The new family of products is designed from the ground up to deliver a complete suite of Mac-exclusive solutions and includes a Wireless Mouse, Bluetooth® Laser Mouse, Bluetooth Presenter, USB Hub, Chill Mat™, File Share Cable and Privacy Screen. Each product is developed with materials, ergonomic attributes, technology innovations, functionality and aesthetics designed specifically to meet Mac users’ wants and needs. Drawing on the popularity of the iPod® Touch, the mice and presenter feature the most current touch scroll technology, delivering unprecedented ease of navigation. With its first line of Mac accessories, Targus offers Mac enthusiasts cutting-edge products with feature-rich functionality and Mac-focused designs. The new line complements the Apple® style with clean, sleek and trendy form factors that exude simplicity and sophistication. In addition, continuing with Targus’ Eco-Smart™ campaign, all the packaging includes eco-friendly materials featuring up to 70% post-consumer paper materials and highly recyclable PET. “The new Targus for Mac line was created with Mac user input throughout the design and development process, and while it has a distinct Mac aesthetic in terms of look and feel, it offers much more than that,” said Bob Shortt, sr. vice president of sales and marketing at Targus. “We designed the functionality required to deliver what Mac users want in their products, like the intuitive interface on the presenter, the smooth-moving touch scroll and the dual programmable buttons that let users personalize their experience.” Wireless Mouse for Mac (Model # AMW43US) and Bluetooth Laser Mouse for Mac (Model # AMB08US)
Both new mice are equipped with the latest in touch technology, our 4-way touch scroll provides smooth, rapid scrolling, move up/down and left/right with just the tip of a finger. Additionally, the mice allow Mac users to personalize their mouse functions with two programmable buttons that instantly give users access to the functions or applications they use most. The ergonomic size and shape of the mice create a comfortable and supportive experience that cradles the hand during use. Equipped with a Power Indicator Light, both mice inform users of low battery power. The Wireless Mouse for Mac features a RF 2.4 GHz Micro USB receiver, which plugs into a USB port, allowing unencumbered free range of motion; the micro receiver stows conveniently into the Wireless Mouse for travel or storage. 1200 dpi optical sensor technology ensures accurate movement on the screen. The Wireless Mouse for Mac measures 4.64” x 2.51” x 1.45”, weighs 4.7 oz and has an MSRP of $49.99. With top-of-the-line Bluetooth technology, the Bluetooth Laser Mouse for Mac offers the ultimate ease in wireless connectivity and eliminates the need for a receiver, preserving a USB port for other devices. Whether used with or without a mouse pad, the Bluetooth Laser Mouse delivers precise cursor movements with quality 1200 dpi laser technology. The Bluetooth Laser Mouse for Mac measures 4.64” x 2.51” x 1.45”, weighs 4.4 oz and has an MSRP of $69.99. Bluetooth Presenter for Mac (Model # AMP11US)
The first Mac-specific presenter on the market, Targus’ innovative Bluetooth Presenter for Mac includes numerous features designed to improve the presentation experience. The intuitive button configuration provides ease of use and prevents accidental button presses, with primary presentation controls such as previous slide, next slide and laser pointer easily identifiable from tactile cues; secondary functions like blank screen and slide show are recessed and out of the way. Versatile functionality switches easily from Presentation Mode to Cursor Mode, for use like a mouse, with touch scroll technology delivering smooth, effortless navigation through lengthy spreadsheets, PDF documents and other projected applications. Compatible with both Keynote® and PowerPoint®, the Bluetooth presenter for Mac includes remote control for adjustment of volume and other functions plus two programmable buttons that give users quick access to applications or functions of their choice. Additionally, the Bluetooth Presenter for Mac includes a laser pointer, allowing users to call attention to important information within their presentation. Bluetooth technology delivers wireless control of presentations from a distance of up to 33 feet and the Presenter’s comfort-conscious design reduces strain due to the ergonomic placement of its buttons. The Bluetooth Presenter for Mac measures 5.1” x 1.65” x .98”, weighs 3.7 oz and has an MSRP of $79.99.

( Gizmodo, The Gadget Blog )

NZXT Avatar Gaming Mouse Lightning Review [Lightning Review]

The Gadget Avatar is the first-ever gaming mouse from NZXT, who's better known for its Battlestar Galactica-worthy PC cases. It's got the usual gaming mice features—a ridiculous DPI count with on-the-fly-switching, a crapload of customizable buttons, and bright, shiny lights. The Price: $70. Verdict: I'm on record as being less than fond of ambidextrous mice since I don't use a "claw" grip for gaming. Avatar tries to let you have it both ways, with a deeply grooved thumb grip, and fails more spectacularly as a result. Its most glaring problem, and what ultimately renders it less than usable, is that it has a thumb button placed on either side—part of the whole ambidextrous thing—so it's far too easy to hit the one opposite your thumb with your ring finger whenever you pick the mouse up (something you do a lot, actually). You can try tucking your finger underneath it, but that requires you to recess your grip, so that clicking the button your thumb actually uses requires more effort, and therefore more time. Not to mention it cramps your hand, thanks to its extremely thin profile. They could partially solve this by making the ass of the mouse a bit fatter, giving the back of your palm more surface to grip so you could actually use it in a claw style. Even then, that errant side button would still be in the way. So, while the customization software and everything worked well enough, the ergonomics of the mouse really just make it less than usable. If you're looking for an ambidextrous gaming mouse, I'd recommend one of Razer's instead.
( Gizmodo, The Gadget Blog )

Grenade Mouse: If Rambo Used a Computer [Mouse]

This is the most hardass mouse I've ever seen. It's a mouse stuffed inside of an actual grenade shell (that's sadly plastic, I was a little overexcited after watching Rambo the other night). Sure, it's a crappy Targus mouse lurking underneath its rippled casing. And you know it's goddamn uncomfortable. But that's part of the point. When your pasty, sweaty hand is gripping this instrument of death turned into a cuddly gadget, enduring the minor misery in your lower arm caused its frankly horrifying ergonomics, you'll feel like a badass. You totally won't be, but for that brief second, it's not like anyone could tell you any differently. Except for you know, Rambo, who would punch your heart out.
( Gizmodo, The Gadget Blog )

Silverstone Raven Gaming Mouse Has a Tumor on the Side, Can't Possibly Be Comfortable [Gaming]

Silverstone's Raven gaming mouse looks really interesting at first glance, what with the giant, glowing and strangely hypnotic tumor bolted to its side. It appears to be a secondary scroll wheel, which sits next to the usual thumb buttons. And you've got another pair of buttons next to your middle finger. But when you think about the ergonomics, it just don't work. How can it possibly be comfortable to hold with that massive wart bulging out? Check out this top down view to see what I mean.

Also, NZXT's Avatar pulled some similar side button trickery as the Silverstone, which resulted in you accidentally mashing the side button every time you picked up the mouse. The Raven's side buttons don't look quite as haphazardly placed, so it might not be the case. When we get one in our hands maybe our doubts will be blown by away by this 3200dpi monster, but hold on to that $85 in the meantime.
( Gizmodo, The Gadget Blog )

Standard Dell mouse gets GRS electrode implant

Looking to spark up a makeshift psychology lab in the basement of your house? Look no further than the galvanic skin response computer mouse. For those unaware, GRS electrodes can gather data about human interactions with computers, though most rigs are so invasive that test subjects end up freaking out rather than passing on useful information. This non-obtrusive method relies on a device that the vast majority of computer users already use (that'd be a mouse), and by simply installing the sensors into the left and right click buttons, you're left with an analyzing tool that may not even tip off your kid sister, significant other, or your most favorite poker pal. At any rate, hit the read link to get your mad scientist on.

( MAKE )

SteelSeries WoW MMO Gaming Mouse makes wasting your life that much easier

With Wrath of the Lich King just around the corner, it's time to up your game and finally make it out of the low double digits with that Blood Elf mage you keep telling us about. Maybe SteelSeries can help. The high-end gaming peripherals builder recently snapped up Ideazon, and together they've built the official World of Warcraft MMO Gaming Mouse in close cooperation with Ideazon's BFF Blizzard. There are 15 programmable buttons scattered across the mouse, and a new in-game configuration utility to graphically assign the buttons just where they're needed. You can save different profiles for different purposes, and choose one of 16 million colors for those LEDs down the back. Just don't expect any fancy auto-levelling macros or even a recommended control scheme -- Blizzard still expects you to do the hard work of lining up your favorite actions and buying your gold on eBay. The laser mouse hits on November 13th to coincide with the Lich King launch, and should retail "under $100."

( Engadget )

Nintendo getting into the pedometer game? This will all end in tears

Bad / good news, folks: Nintendo is / isn't working on a pedometer peripheral that will / won't integrate with its Wii / DS console. The company has famously stated that it doesn't plan to release "a whole lot more" accessories for the Wii, which means we've got at least one or two to look forward to, and this could be one of 'em. The images surfaced on a European trademark registry site with very little supplemental info, but we do know it's a pedometer of sorts. If we're lucky, this is something that'll integrate into the existing Wii Fit setup, perhaps alongside a software update to manage more info about our unhealthiness than just how far we can jump on a pair of imaginary skis, but it's probably just as likely that we're looking at a Wii Fit sequel, or perhaps a DS version (a handy companion to that new DS?) designed to lure us out of the house. No telling, really, but the peripheral does appear to be wireless... and wholly evil.

( Joystiq )

4Door's RoadMice bring a little muscle to your mousepad

There are ergonomic mice, floaty mice, geometric mice, and of course gaming mice, but, if you're the type of guy or gal who'd rather be fondling a Hurst pistol-grip than any of those sissy things, then 4Door's RoadMice are for you. They're wireless mini modern muscle car mice that replicate the look of autos like the Dodge Charger, Chevy Z06 'Vette, and Ford Mustang, complete with two-button hoods, 800 dpi optical sensors, scroll wheel induction cowls, and even working headlights for safe clicking at night. Each one comes with a USB receiver, six-month unlimited mile warranty, and a vaguely authentic looking title certificate if you register online. Yeah it's all a bit cheeky, and we're thinking that lip-spoiler on the back of the Camaro wouldn't do your palm any favors, but, for $45 in a variety of colors, they're cheaper and more useful than the other bits of automotive memorabilia scattered around your office.

( Autoblog )