The Buzz

I haven’t discussed mobile phones that much. Frankly, phones need their own mini-version of CES. It’s nearly impossible to make sense of the fairly minute differences in design and functionality from product to product, and after looking at hundreds of them it just makes your head spin. Nevertheless, amid madness, a standout - The Motorola Rokr E8. On this point, there seems to be a consensus. The device won overall points from CES judges, and on major tech sites like CNET and Gizmodo. The Rokr raises the stakes a bit on the touch technology identified with iPhone, and with its dedicated photo function and real lens (not just a whole in the back) it also steps up photo capability and facilitates sharing to social networking sites. On the market in about 90 days.

Another trend: converting your cellphones to landlines. PhoneLabs has come up with a docking and phone system that allows you to make your cellphone your home phone in a more permanent way. The system connects via bluetooth or the “Dock & Talk” module that also charges your mobile. Great for people who work at home and don’t want to keep track of a cellphone. One drawback: The best case for a land line is for emergencies. If there’s a power outage, you’re back on the cell for only as long as your battery holds out.

From Belkin, a Skype Internet Desk Phone that plugs into your ethernet port.