XO 2 - OLPC Second Generation Laptop

Nicholas Negrponte unveiled the design of the next laptop computer that will be the future sub $100 computer designed to bring affordable computers to developing countries. With it's first computer, the project did not quite achieve its goal of developing a computer that could be produced for under $100, but they have at least made significant progress. As part of the process they designed a laptop computer that completely rethought the engineering of the typical laptop, and produced a computer that is far more energy efficient, robust and usable in more difficult lighting conditions. The innovation that they brought will no doubt impact not only on the children it is intended for, but will surely have implications on the laptop industry as a whole.

Based on the learnings made so far, the One Lap Top Per Child project have decided to take a different approach for their next computer. This time they are not 'improving' an existing product, they are inventing a completely new one. The device is half the size of the original, and consists of two flat panel screens. Looking like a digital book, the device can be used in a variety of ways; Held vertically like a book; Placed flat like a tablet; Or like a traditional laptop, where the lower touch sensitive screen can be used as a keyboard. The device will naturally benefit from advances in new technology and the inevitable lowering of production costs, so that the device will be able to be produced for $75 (or at least closer to the original psychologically important price point of $100).

Also to note is the repeat of the chance to get your hands on the original computer, by buying two and having the second donated to a child in a developing country. This is due to launch in August. I am not going to let that opportunity pass by, as this computer is not only cheap and useful, and would make a great computer for my son, but it will surely go down in computer history.

Interestingly, being a not for profit programme, they have taken the 'un Applelike' approach of revealing the design, two years ahead of production, with the aim that people actively adopt the thinking of their device. Therefor, the project and the public as a whole will benefit for development in this type of devise, ensuring a further reaching improvement than if they had been secretive. This is pretty revolutionary thinking, but I have another theory...As we all wait for Apple to launch their latest version of the iPhone, there are also rumors that they will also be introducing a new portable web device. I would not be surprised to find out that their devise is not dissimilar to this one. Maybe OLPC wanted to trump Apple?

Robotic Fish

These guys at Essex Univercity have made a very realistic robot fish that is on show at the London aquarium.

Aquaroids - Aquatic Robots For Your Home Aquarium

This is footage of commercially available water robots, called Aquaroids. They were available in Japan in 2001, but I am struggling to find any to buy in Europe. If anyone knows please leave a comment, or write me. They were made by Takara (Tomy) in Japan.

Fold School - Free Furniture

foldschool is a collection of free cardboard furniture for kids, handmade by you. The downloadable patterns can be printed out with any printer - simply follow the instructions to assemble a stable piece of furniture.

A cool and simple site for kids - foldschool

The Robots Are Taking Over!

I do not know if this model maker is responsible for the designs of the characters in the film Robots? They are amazing! Check theem out on his flickr account.

Thanks to Pete for this link!

Shin Tanaka - Paper Toy Designer

Shin Tanaka is a Japanese graphic designer and graffiti artist who has added a new angle to cool little toy designs, by releasing a collection that is made entirely of paper. Designers from around the world can submit their designs on predefiined templates, and then site visitors can open a box on the site and download a random toy design to print out and make for themselves.

Download one here.

As read on Include Digital Digest

Brio Network Toys

Brio's new Network range brings the line of traditionally classic wooden toys more upto date. Retaining the clean and high quality design, the new wooden toys have a more hi tech subject than their more classically themed train and farm yard predecessors. Appealing to the computer generation, the collection introduces computer themed characters, such as viruses, CD burners and characters that deliver emails. The toys retain their low tech and durable appeal and work much as the traditional counterparts, but have some interactive features when some pieces are placed near other components.

The site is also an example of very good web design. Essentially a slick catalogue style presentation, the site features impecable integration of 3D animated video. The site was made by Swedish agency, FarFar, who also created memory stick gadgets from the collection - which I think are almost more desirable than the toys themselves!

Visit the site

Anna Berton - Local Artist

Anna Berton makes childrens illustrations and art. She is local to Bassano area.

9 months of gestation in 20 seconds

http://www.pressnall.com/gestation_project/ This guy took a series of photos every other day as his wife was pregnant with their first child. Visit the URL above for more info.