Categories
Input Television

GoTouch transforms your TV into interactive whiteboard

editors-choice-300x96It would be nice to use that TV or projection screen one already owns to make interactive presentations without running out to spend money on a whiteboard.

GoTouch is a small, portable device that instantly turns any TV or projector into an interactive whiteboard using an infrared tracking pointer. The device connects to smartphones, tablets or PCs via Bluetooth. If using an iPhone or iPad, it can be connected wirelessly using Apple TV’s AirPlay, or via a Lightning to HDMI cable. If using an Android device, GoTouch can be connected via a Micro-USB to HDMI cable or by using Chromecast or similar screencasting devices.

Categories
Connected Objects

Pixcil plus smartphone turns any surface into virtual whiteboard

editors-choiceInteractive whiteboards are convenient tools for people to use to draw and write on to communicate ideas with anybody else in the room at the same time as other people around the world. But they can be too expensive than the average person can afford.

Pixcil is an inexpensive digital pen that turns virtually any surface into a virtual whiteboard when used in conjunction with a smartphone. It captures writing and drawing in real time and stores the info in a secured database. From its accompanying app, users can invite people to view or write on the board, as well as make changes such as the color of the virtual pen being used to write.

Categories
Connected Objects Writing

Writeboard Wi-Fi whiteboard lets you share your meeting scribbles

It may have taken the shape of an app or a notification popping up on a phone or a tablet, but human communication still relies heavily on the taking and sharing of notes. From the classroom to the boardroom, the prevalence of notes touches so many parts of everyday life that it deserves a modern spin.

The WriteBoard is essentially a 27-inch, LCD whiteboard, not unlike the kind many have at home or at work. What makes WriteBoard special is that it’s Wi-Fi connected and can share notes between connected WriteBoards or through the WriteBoard app. With an aluminum stylus reminiscent of a classic pencil and a 1080p display, WriteBoard offers no drop-off or compromise when compared to using a marker-based classic whiteboard.

Every aspect of the WriteBoard is designed to make using the device feel familiar without being held back by technological limitations. A small ledge at the bottom of the WriteBoard can hold the stylus, and the inclusion of wall mounts or stands will make WriteBoard as flexible regarding placement as it is regarding usage. WriteBoard needs $100,000 to find investment partners and create a plan for mass production. Supporters can get set up with their own WriteBoard for $299, with no release date planned at this time.

The main issue with a specialist device like the WriteBoard is that it functions essentially like a large tablet or touch display, with none of the extra features besides note-taking. Add to that a poorly conceived geo-specific advertising function that pops advertising onto the WriteBoard based on location and you have something that is caught between not performing as well as other devices and getting in the way of its solitary function. WriteBoard’s heart is in the right place, but may need to go back to the drawing board.

 

Categories
Organization Writing

Octopad delivers a reusable sticky note for ephemeral permanence

OctopadSticky notes are a great way to leave reminders, passive aggressive notes and to-do lists around the house. The only problem is that they’re disposable and bad for the environment. The Octopad offers little notepads that stick to surfaces and are reusable. They’re mini dry erase boards that are able to travel, much like the Stick On Whiteboard and the Zipboard Roll-Up Travel Whiteboard that offer the convenience of a whiteboard with the portability of a notepad. For five-pack, backers can donate £8 for this British product with an estimated delivery date of September 2014. Octopad hopes to raise £4,500 in a 35-day Kickstarter campaign.