Information via Light
Ambient Devices is by far the leader in the arena of conveying information with light. They have created (or helped develop) a series of gadgets, including the Ambient Orb (pictured right), the Weather Watcher, and the LG “Weather Plus” Fridge (yes, a fridge with a TV in it). Currently, they are developing the Ambient Clock (currently in beta as a gadget for your Google personalized homepage), and an Ambient Umbrella.
One of my favorite light gadgets is the Equa System Light Delight. This faucet uses LEDs to make the water appear blue if it is cold, and red if it is hot. I am not sure what the price tag is on the Light Delight, but ThinkGeek has a similar faucet light for $19.99.
At only $21, the SIGNAL Cell Phone Adviser is probably the best light gadget for the office. Simply put your cell phone on silent, and the device will blink when there is an incoming call. I just wish it would charge the phone, too.
One of the strangest devices I have ever seen is the Nabaztag ($129.99-$179.99 on ThinkGeek), which is essentially a highly-customizable tabletop bunny that will blink, talk, and move its ears to convey information. It can read out loud websites, the forecast, the news, and do a whole lot more. Instead of talking, it can also use light; for example, it will blink three yellow lights if it is sunny.
The last device I know of is the Glo Pillow (in development). This pillow gently wakes you up with lights and simulates a natural sunrise. The pillow is very elaborately constructed with five different layers, and includes a clock and alarm display. When it’s available, it will probably be the best pillow around… hopefully it’s comfortable.
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