Issue link: http://viewer.e-digitaleditions.com/i/52531
TOP GEAR super smart Computers with a dual core processor are faster and more powerful, and the same level of super-performance has now arrived in a smartphone. The LG Optimus 2x P990 offers uber-fast web browsing and application startup, smooth multi-tasking and impressive multimedia capabilities, including Full HD 1080p recording and playback, a 4-inch HD screen and an 8-megapixel camera. It costs $650. www.lg.com.au photo, video or both? 3D for all Expensive eyewear and the dearth of 3D programming make buying a 3D TV barely worthwhile, but LG's new televisions use $10 glasses like those supplied by cinemas to make it affordable enough for the whole neighbourhood to join in. These 'Cinema 3D' tellies will also create 3D effects from ordinary TV shows and connected DVD and Blu-ray players, vastly expanding the range of what you can watch in 3D. Prices start at $1999. www.lg.com.au The line between still cameras and video cameras continues to blur, with Nikon's D5100 combining a 16-megapixel camera with full- HD video capture. There's a neat swivel LCD screen for framing shots beyond your eye line, plus various special effects options, including a night-vision mode offering up to ISO 102,400 for shooting in extremely low light. Prices start at about $1200 with a twin-lens kit. www.nikon.com.au keep it clean We don't vacuum like we used to, apparently. Where once we performed a deep weekly clean, now we do instant cleans several times a week, according to Electrolux. Enter the Ergorapido, a lightweight, manoeuvrable and colourful battery-powered cleaner that can be plucked from its charge stand for quick grab-and-go tidy ups. There's even an LED headlight in the nozzle for spotting grot in dark corners and under furniture. It costs $219. www.electrolux.com.au watch this space Whether it's a design or a technology statement you want to make, Storm's space-age Circuit Mk II is going to get a reaction. Made of stainless steel and mineral glass, it displays the time via LEDs alongside two columns, with the right side showing hours and the left side showing minutes in increments of nine and one. It's priced at $220. www.stormwatches.com.au travel&living 107