Posted: February 26th, 2011 | Author: Amy-Mae Elliott | Filed under: Uncategorized | Tags: cable management, features, Gadgets, gallery, gear, List, Lists, tech, trending | Comments Off
It’s one of life’s little unwritten laws — like toast always falling butter-side down — that when you get your headphone cables out, no matter how neatly you put them away, you’ll inevitably be faced with a pile of wire spaghetti.
Don’t let those cable gremlins get the best of you. Employ a headphone cable management solution that is both effective and adorable. We’ve found 10 fun options for you that won’t break the bank, and will help you store your headphones neatly, keep them tidy on the go, or both.
Let us know your faves, or any others you particularly like, in the comments below.
With its flat profile and soft material, the bobino "cable buddy" offers a simple and slim way to manage your headphone wire. Available in small (the best size for headphones), medium and large for bigger cables, the cable buddy comes in black, lime, pink, red, turquoise and white.
Cost: $2.95 for small

Belkin's solution offers a neat way store your headphone cable with a flexible rubber dome that opens to reveal a hard plastic core for wrapping the excess inches.
Cost: $6.95

Proporta's solution includes earbud-style headphones that come with a silicone cable tidy. Both are available in a range of colors.
Cost: $15.95

Stylish and ultra thin, the Cableyoyo is basically an empty spool that you can wrap your wires around until they are the desired length for use or storage.
Cost: From $4.95

Available in three sizes, the 45mm diameter version of the Cable Turtle tidies up to 0.7 meters of unruly wire inside its cute little shell.
Cost: From approx $7
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With CordFits, you can weave your cord through, pop the cap on, and then customize the cord to exactly the length you want, or wrap it around entirely for tangle-free storage.
Cost: $7.99

This is a tons-of-fun cable winder. You wrap your cable around Tetran's body and then use the mouth as a holder for your earbuds! Tetrans also boast a removable ball-bearing style chain for easy attachment.
Cost: $9.99

The 14-gram "3Roll" is a super-lightweight, compact, soft, silicone storage case designed to keep your headphones tangle-free when not in use. It's available in black, green or pink, so you can choose a color that suits.
Cost: $27.00
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Magneat's "Pacman'ish" and "Cow" cable tidies offer a fun way sort your wire spaghetti. In addition to storing cable, they boast a no-clips magnetic fixation system which means you can attach them to clothing or the like.
Cost: $14.90 each

Described as a "cool homage to the old Walkman era," the "«REW" helps keep your cords in order in a decidedly old skool fashion.
Cost: Approx $6.50
More Accessory Resources from Mashable:
- 10 Cool Cable Management Solutions [PICS]
- 10 iPod Touch 4G Cases That Stand Out From the Crowd [PICS]
- 5 Fun Products to Personalize Your iPhone
- 10 Fun iPod Speakers for Listening in Style
- Top 5 DIY iPhone Stands [PICS]
More About: accessories, cable management, gadgets, gallery, List, Lists, tech, trending
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Posted: February 26th, 2011 | Author: Zachary Sniderman | Filed under: Uncategorized | Tags: business, Channels, facebook, features, Features Week In Review, Gadgets, List, Lists, Mobile 2.0, social good, social media, Social Media Lists, tech, technology, twitter, web, Web Apps, Web Design, Web Development | Comments Off
This week was all about Apple buzz (new iPad? new OS? New Macbook!?) and the launch of a brand new section on
Mashable.
Explore is a streamlined way to get to all those great tools and resources we’ve published. After you have a look through this week’s tools and resources, head on over to get your learn on.
Below you’ll find some first looks at Apple’s new OS, Lion, a guide to taking your business freemium, and tips for creating a successful eBay storefront.
Looking for even more social media resources? This guide appears every weekend, and you can check out all the lists-gone-by here any time.
Editors’ Picks
Social Media
For more social media news and resources, you can follow Mashable’s social media channel on Twitter and become a fan on Facebook.
Tech & Mobile
- HANDS ON: The Quietest (Powerful) Computer In The World [PICS]
Most computers make noise, but we found one that’s tremendously powerful, yet it’s so quiet we couldn’t tell it was running. - 10 Classy Cocktail Apps for Your iPhone
If you’re passionate about fancy drinks and have an iPhone, then do we have a treat for you. - 21 Free iPhone Apps for Staying Financially Fit in 2011
Here are 21 iPhone apps — all free — to help you stay informed and monitor your finances. - Review: Shape-Shifting Travel Bag Divides Into 3 Pieces [VIDEO & PICS]
Today’s travelers need maximum flexibility, and that’s the promise of the Balanzza Truco, a 3-piece modular carry-on bag that stacks together into a size that’s made to fit into most overhead bins. - Rumor Roundup: The MacBook Pro Edition
A rundown of all the rumors concerning the 2011 MacBook Pro. - The Influence of Social Gaming on Consoles
We connected with gaming industry expert Scott Steinberg to discuss the influence of social upstarts on the console establishment. - HANDS ON: Amazon’s Prime Instant Video
Hands-on review of Amazon’s new Netflix competitor, Prime Instant Video. - HOW TO: Use QR Codes for Event Marketing
How can QR codes help entertainment brand marketers? Here’s a “brass tacks” breakdown of proven-successful strategies. - How HTML5 Is Aiding in Cross-Platform Development
Disparate platforms have created the need for a unified way to develop web and mobile apps. HTML5 might be the answer. - Ruby on Rails: Scaling Your App for Rapid Growth
Gowalla CTO Scott Raymond talks about his experiences building a popular web app from the ground up using Ruby on Rails. - The Future of Your Wireless Home Network
Nearly everything in your future home will be web-enabled. Here’s a look at the broadband and Wi-Fi tech that will power the “connected house.” - Thunderbolt: Everything You Need To Know
What? Yet another PC connection? When you take a look at Thunderbolt, you’ll see that it’s going to be a welcome addition. - First Look: Mac OS X Lion [SCREENSHOTS]
Mac OS X Lion was released to Mac developers Thursday. Here are some screenshots of the upcoming version of Apple’s operating system. - 10 Top Cases for Your 7-Inch Tablet [PICS]
Whether you’re toting a Samsung Galaxy Tab, a Dell Streak 7, or hoping to get your hands on one of the 7-inch tablets announced at CES, we’ve got a case for you. - The Future of the Connected Car
Things are starting to get exciting in the in-car technology space. We spoke to auto experts to find out what we can look forward to in the near future.
For more tech news and resources, you can follow Mashable’s tech channel on Twitter and become a fan on Facebook.
Business
- How an Imaginative Child Learning Software Startup Avoided Death by Retail
Sabi Games, a startup building imaginative learning software for kids, is transitioning from desktop to mobile after facing near death by retail. - 10 Essential Online Resources for Preparing Your Small Business Taxes
While tax time can seem overwhelming for the time-pressed small business owner, there are many online tools and forums available to make the process a little easier and stress-free. Here are ten of our favorites. - Power to the People: 3 Tasty Crowdsourcing Case Studies
We spoke with reps from three major brands — Ben & Jerry’s, Coca Cola and Dunkin’ Donuts — to find out more about their recent crowdsourcing campaigns. - 3 Facebook Commerce Success Stories
Here are three small businesses that have successfully integrated stores into their Facebook Pages, and what they’re learning about the process. - 9 Dynamic Digital Resumes That Stand Out From the Crowd
Pure text is boring. If you’ve got an artistic eye, distinguish yourself by adding charts, graphics, and a little creativity. These examples should serve up inspiration. - HOW TO: Deal With Negative Online Sentiment About Your Brand
It’s important for any brand to learn how to manage negative comments and motivate its base of brand advocates. - 8 Tips For Creating a Successful eBay Storefront
Before you open an eBay storefront, consider these 8 tips. - HOW TO: Change Your Business Model From Paid to Freemium
If you’re considering implementing a freemium model for your business, here are a few factors to weigh. - Why Online Marketers Should Not Track Children [OPINION]
We accept a certain level of data collection from most websites and networks, but should we make exceptions when it comes to minors? - How 5 Companies Are Using the iPad to Increase Productivity
Pro auto racers, an art gallery, a dog gym, a health care provider and a home renovations company have all found ways to use iPads to streamline their businesses.
For more business news and resources, you can follow Mashable’s business channel on Twitter and become a fan on Facebook.
Image courtesy of DeviantArt, rafiki270
More About: business, facebook, Features Week In Review, gadgets, List, Lists, Mobile 2.0, social media, tech, technology, twitter
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Posted: February 25th, 2011 | Author: Amy-Mae Elliott | Filed under: Uncategorized | Tags: android, cases, features, Gadgets, gallery, List, Lists, sleeves, tablet accessories, tablets, tech | Comments Off
With a range of hot 7-inch tablets available, we thought a round-up of some of the best cases, sleeves and covers currently on sale was in order.
Whether you’re toting a Samsung Galaxy Tab, a Dell Streak 7, or hoping to get your hands on one of the 7-inch tablets announced at CES, we’ve got a case for you.
If you’re in the market, take a look through the gallery and let us know in the comments below which covering would best suit your precious mobile screen.
Designed to fit all 7-inch tablets, Belkin's two-tone woven case looks a little different from your standard neoprene fare.
Cost: $24.99

Especially for the Samsung Galaxy Tab, this leather covering will add a touch of real swank.
Cost: $58

This faux suede effort comes in pink, black, gray, navy blue and red and boasts a handy additional exterior pocket for accessories.
Cost: $18.95

This neoprene sleeve has a polar fleece interior so your tablet will be safe and snug inside. It also boasts a pocket and a hidden handle.
Cost: $29.99

Perfect for anyone who wants a minimalist sleeve, this is designed to fit all 7-inch tablets and won't draw any unecessary attention to itself as it protects your precious screen.
Cost: $24.99

Made of seersucker plaid and originally created to fit e-book readers, this case will easily envelop your tablet with roomy dimensions of eight+ inches.
Cost: $11.99

If you want max protection for your tablet, OtterBox's option will give you three layers of protection and a clip-on touchscreen cover with a fold-out stand. This model is specific to the Samsung Galaxy Tab, but the Dell Streak 7 version is due soon.
Cost: $69.95

For Samsung Galaxy Tab owners, this snug silicone sleeve has a textured finish for improved "grippability" when surfing or gaming.
Cost: $39.99

This lightweight sleeve is made of colorful canvas with a leather trim and features an elastic strap that holds the sleeve tightly closed, but allows for quick access to your gadget.
Cost: $19.99

Finally, if you'd like a case that's a little bit different, head on over to Etsy. Just one of many great sellers offering such crafty solutions, Etsy shop "linascorner" will hand-make you a case to fit your specific gadget from a choice of fabrics.
Cost: From $21
More Tech Resources from Mashable:
- 6 Great Gloves for Touchscreen Gadget Lovers
- 5 Stylish Computer Mice for the Design Aficionado
- Especially For You: 8 Great Gadgets You Can Personalize
- 5 Beautiful Keyboards to Spice Up Your Boring Desk
- 5 Hip Bluetooth Headsets
More About: accessories, android, cases, gallery, List, Lists, sleeves, tablet accessories, tablets
For more Tech & Gadgets coverage:


Posted: February 25th, 2011 | Author: Amy-Mae Elliott | Filed under: Uncategorized | Tags: android, cases, features, Gadgets, gallery, List, Lists, sleeves, tablet accessories, tablets, tech | Comments Off
With a range of hot 7-inch tablets available, we thought a round-up of some of the best cases, sleeves and covers currently on sale was in order.
Whether you’re toting a Samsung Galaxy Tab, a Dell Streak 7, or hoping to get your hands on one of the 7-inch tablets announced at CES, we’ve got a case for you.
If you’re in the market, take a look through the gallery and let us know in the comments below which covering would best suit your precious mobile screen.
Designed to fit all 7-inch tablets, Belkin's two-tone woven case looks a little different from your standard neoprene fare.
Cost: $24.99

Especially for the Samsung Galaxy Tab, this leather covering will add a touch of real swank.
Cost: $58

This faux suede effort comes in pink, black, gray, navy blue and red and boasts a handy additional exterior pocket for accessories.
Cost: $18.95

This neoprene sleeve has a polar fleece interior so your tablet will be safe and snug inside. It also boasts a pocket and a hidden handle.
Cost: $29.99

Perfect for anyone who wants a minimalist sleeve, this is designed to fit all 7-inch tablets and won't draw any unecessary attention to itself as it protects your precious screen.
Cost: $24.99

Made of seersucker plaid and originally created to fit e-book readers, this case will easily envelop your tablet with roomy dimensions of eight+ inches.
Cost: $11.99

If you want max protection for your tablet, OtterBox's option will give you three layers of protection and a clip-on touchscreen cover with a fold-out stand. This model is specific to the Samsung Galaxy Tab, but the Dell Streak 7 version is due soon.
Cost: $69.95

For Samsung Galaxy Tab owners, this snug silicone sleeve has a textured finish for improved "grippability" when surfing or gaming.
Cost: $39.99

This lightweight sleeve is made of colorful canvas with a leather trim and features an elastic strap that holds the sleeve tightly closed, but allows for quick access to your gadget.
Cost: $19.99

Finally, if you'd like a case that's a little bit different, head on over to Etsy. Just one of many great sellers offering such crafty solutions, Etsy shop "linascorner" will hand-make you a case to fit your specific gadget from a choice of fabrics.
Cost: From $21
More Tech Resources from Mashable:
- 6 Great Gloves for Touchscreen Gadget Lovers
- 5 Stylish Computer Mice for the Design Aficionado
- Especially For You: 8 Great Gadgets You Can Personalize
- 5 Beautiful Keyboards to Spice Up Your Boring Desk
- 5 Hip Bluetooth Headsets
More About: accessories, android, cases, gallery, List, Lists, sleeves, tablet accessories, tablets
For more Tech & Gadgets coverage:


Posted: February 21st, 2011 | Author: Dave Sloan | Filed under: Uncategorized | Tags: Channels, contributor, customization, design, Fashion, features, gift guide, jewelry, List, Lists, online shopping, social media | Comments Off
Dave Sloan is CEO of Treehouse Logic, which offers a hosted design tool solution that enables customer co-creation. You can reach Dave at dave@treehouselogic.com and follow him on Twitter.Why buy standard department store jewelry when you can customize your own pieces online for around the same price?
Jewelry is one of the hottest categories in the growing design-it-yourself market because it is extremely personal and highly configurable. Jewelry is the perfect fit for an online design tool that lets you mix and match colorful jewels and precious metals.
Each piece that you design is built to order and is likely a one-of-a-kind. Custom jewelry is a great way to express your individuality and style. Thanks to online shops that offer online design tools, you can start getting creative right away. Here are six sites worth checking out.

Gemkitty’s mission is to enable anyone to discover or design a unique piece of semi-precious gemstone jewelry. Using the online design tool, anyone can digitally design their own natural gemstone jewelry. Gemkitty offers custom earrings and necklaces, and just launched a cool “Blingomatic” quiz that helps guys pick out the perfect piece for their lady.

Started in 1999, Blue Nile helps shoppers navigate the complexity of diamond selection. Using a set of filters for attributes like price, cut, carat, color, and clarity, Blue Nile helps you find the perfect match for your tastes and price range. The diamond itself is shown with helpful dimension diagrams and sample photos.

Gemvara aims to create a jewelry shopping experience that is superior to going to a brick-and-mortal jewelry store. Users choose from among a wide variety of template products (rings, necklaces, earrings) and customize stones and precious metals before checking out. Orders take three weeks to ship.

Brilliant Earth focuses on the socially conscious consumer by sourcing conflict free diamonds from Canada. Similar to Blue Nile, consumer can create their own ring by filtering through thousands of gemstone and setting options. Brilliant Earth donates 5% of their profits to local communities that have been harmed by the diamond industry.

Charmed by Ingrid Anne allows you to customize a necklace on a Facebook page without having to install a Facebook application. Being on Facebook itself makes it easy to post and share your creation. Select a necklace style and add three charms or gemstones to complete your necklace.

Delusha aims to appeal to the fashion diva in you. They set out to give you the creative tools to express yourself, your style, and your look. Select beads and jewels and drag and drop them onto a metal wire. The experience is like sitting at a craft table with bowls of beads. All Delusha pieces are handmade in Valencia, Spain.
Get Started
If designing from scratch sounds like a daunting task, all these sites offer a gallery of preset designs to help get you started. Many shoppers like to select design templates and then edit, rather than starting with a blank canvas. Additionally, visitors like to see what other shoppers have built in a customer gallery and what the jewelry vendor recommends in each product category.
Custom jewelry can be a great gift idea as well. Rather than struggling to pick out something at the mall, these online jewelry shops let you easily put together a thoughtful gift. Enjoy designing!
More Fashion Resources from Mashable:
- 3 Ways to Design Your Own Clothes Online
- Why Fashion’s Top Brands Are Flocking to Tumblr
- 7 Stellar Examples of Branded Content from the Fashion Industry
- Why the Fashion Industry Is Betting Big on Branded Online Content
- How the Fashion Industry Is Using Digital Tools to Increase ROI
More About: customization, design, fashion, gift guide, jewelry, List, Lists, online shopping, social media
For more Social Media coverage:

