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R2D2-Shaped DVD and Videogame Projector
Rikardon writes "Nikko Home Electronics has created a DVD projector that looks and moves like R2D2 — with a remote control shaped like the Millenium Falcon. The specs aren't bad: a claimed projection area of up to 6.6m; built-in DVD and CD players; analog and digital video and audio ports; various memory card orifices, and an internal iPod dock. Favorite feature: tilt the legs to adjust the projection height, up to and including projection on the ceiling. No word on whether it projects holograms."
This is meant for hardcore star wars fans, so it's a pretty decent price for the setup that it has but for even less you can get a projector that really beats this one into the ground. Its resolution is only 1024x768 (4:3), so personally I would spring for a projector that has a better aspect ratio and larger display area. But like I said, this is for hard core star wars fans.
Absolute power corrupts absolutely. indymedia
This is a HUGE step, by the way
R2D2 is actually a perfect beginner home robot. About 15 years ago I was saying that a home robot would be the entertainment center with a projector and media player. It would be a phone, message center, wireless networking, vacuum, etc. etc.
In a few more years, I can really see apartments or dorm rooms with no stereo, no "computer," no TV, etc. You have one device, positioned so its charging booth is a good location for the projected screen. When it is not in use, it will roam the home vacuuming and taking the occasional picture for security.
When you are home, it will playback phone messages, music, project the TV, play a DVD search the web, etc. Maybe it will download a recipe for your bread machine.
Looks like someone was listening to Radio 1 this morning :) The Chris Moyles Show effecting /. I never ever thought it!