MDC Tech

The dangers of texting while driving are well-documented by nowthe DOT says handling a device in any way while driving increases the chances of a crash by four times. One solution to the ban on texting in many states is to simply wait until you’re out of the car. Massachusetts developer AdelaVoice is working on another option, thoughone which is actually very interesting for consumer technology. (more…)

Sometimes life fails to entertain us, what with its lack of clear goals, score keeping, and antagonists that you can easily avoid. Luckily, augmented reality (AR) games provide all that and more. Ignore the looks on the faces of those around you and get in on the fun with our list of five favorites.

5. ARSoccer Updating the classic game of “kick the can,” this game lets you knock around a soccer ball of your choice. We don’t recommend crossing the street while playing (since you have to stare down at your phone), but it’s good for a bit of mindless fun.

4. Parallel Kingdom This free game combines massively multiplayer role-playing games with location-based social networking. You control your character around an adventure-filled environment layered over the real world, fighting enemies, leveling up, and buying new items. (more…)

A123 is a lithium-ion battery manufacturer, and one of the Guardian’s 2009 “Global Cleantech 100.” The company could be cementing that reputation in the near future with the announcement of a new spinoff company, 24M, working on some mysterious new energy storage technology.Nothing firm has been announced, but spokespeople have mentioned flow batteries in conjunction with the project. In a standard flow battery, electrolyte travels or “flows” through a cell, which converts the inherent chemical energy into clean, usable electricity. They can be recharged more easily (and more quickly) than regular batteries by switching out the electrolyte solution. (more…)

Even though comic book characters are rising in public attention with big-name films like The Dark Knight and Iron Man 2, that interest has not always translated into bigger sales for comic shops. One reason may be the price point of a standard comic–2.99-3.99 for one 32-page issue (featuring 22 pages of story and 10 pages of ads). Big-name comics publishers DC and Marvel are betting that some of those holdouts will be brought in by digital comics, which sacrifices hard copies for a lower price and ease of use.Both companies are offering free apps for the iPad which allows users to download individual issues of current series. For the most part, these comics are available after the print versions, although some smaller comics companies like Image have announced plans for same-day print-and-digital publishing. Still, for those interested only in reading and not in collecting, the digital option makes a lot of sense. 1.99 gets you a full issue, and you can sign up to keep downloading the newest issues. (more…)