Todays & Tomorrows Technology

It seldom fails to impress me how quickly accessory manufacturers can knock together third-party gadgets for new devices, and Brando is certainly at the top of their game for flooding the market with “do I really need this?” trinkets. Their latest addition is a so-called “Flexible Mini Capsule Microphone” for the iPhone 3GS, intended to take advantage of the thousands of people now recording dreary YouTube videos on their new smartphone.

Unlike the handset’s integrated microphone, which is at the bottom of the handset, the Brando mic can be tilted, rotated and generally angled to point at whatever it is you’re filming. Alternatively you can twist it back to face yourself, ideal for catching every vocal nuance of your voice-over.

Both white and black versions will be on offer, and no battery is required. Gain is listed at 25+dB, but if you’re really looking for polished audio you’d still be better off sourcing a separate, powered microphone. It’ll also play nicely with the iPhone 3G, iPhone 2G and iPod nano 4G, and be priced at $14 when it lands at the end of July.

Microsoft revealed a brand new wireless microphone today meant for use with the Xbox 360. Designed to be used with music games like Rock Band, Guitar Hero and Lips, this mic sports specific features that make gameplay just a tad easier.

You won’t need any wires or adapters, since this mic takes full advantage of the wireless console and it even has motion sensors built in for add functionality. Additionally, there’s lights on the base.

Available in black, this Xbox 360 wireless microphone will be available for purchase sometime in the fall. At that time, you can expect a price tag around $50.