RetailVision Sets Stage For Product Launches

ORLANDO, FLA. — Several manufacturers used RetailVision as a platform to launch their latest production introductions.

Fruwt, a London-based accessory company, had a variety of its wares on display at the show, including the Lift — an iPod Nano case that elevates the device when the sides are pressed. It has a screen and back protector and comes with a "silk-feel" lanyard. It retails for a suggested $34.99.

Also on display was the Slap 10 — a case reminiscent of the "slap bracelets" that were popular in the 1980s. The Slap 10 can be worn in 10 combinations and come with an integrated wire-management system. It retails for a suggested $29.99 to $34.00 depending on model, and can be used with the Nano and Shuffle.

The Twist View case has a cover that twists around to reveal a mirror. It can work with the Nano and 80GB and 160GB iPod Classic.

The company also showed off its laptop bags, including the $79.99 messenger bag and the $99.95 Business bag. Both feature a strap made of seatbelt-like material. The messenger bag is designed for use with 15-inch or smaller laptops, while the Business bag can fit laptops up to 17 inches.

i2i, which was highlighted during the event's Fresh presentation, unveiled the latest addition to its line: a pair of folding battery-operated portable speakers that can be used with any audio device containing a 3.5 mm plug. The folding speakers feature an AC/DC-operated speaker — it also works with four AAA batteries — and a frequency response of 230Hz to 20kHz. Battery life is estimated at five hours. A carrying case is provided. It is currently available for a $39.95 suggested retail.

i2i is an Aerielle brand.

Lowepro displayed two additions to its line of cases. The Tasca is billed as a multipurpose neoprene case. It comes with a metallic carabiner clasp and is offered in five colors: black, blue, green, red and pink. It has just begun shipping.

The Spectrum case is constructed for use with digital cameras. It comes in three sizes and five colors: brown, blue, green, red and black. Pricing ranges from $12.99 to $15.99 depending on size.

ROTA displayed its privacy filters for portable devices. Scheduled to become available this month, the privacy filters work with BlackBerrys, Treos, Centros and BlackJacks. They have a suggested retail of $16.99.

Within two months, according to the company, a version for the iPhone will provide 360-degree privacy protection. Pricing for this model was not given.

Samsill was also at RetailVision, showing off its latest Microsoft-branded laptop cases. Both designed for use with 15.4-inch laptops, the Everest backpack ($79.99) and Sling case ($49.99) are offered in black with orange trim. The Everest has four compartments and comes with a security pocket in that rests flush with the back of the case. The Sling case is similar to the Everest backpack, albeit smaller, and features a single strap.

Solo had its line of Pulse cases on display at RetailVision. The line consists of six models: a messenger bag, vertical messenger bag, backpack, ladies' tote, a top-zip model and a clamshell computer case. Prices will be $34.99 or $49.99 depending on model. They will be available in the fourth quarter in black and charcoal.

Teledex highlighted its line of Datexx-branded "green power solutions," which provide the "tools to make a smarthome," said Mei Noguchi. Products included the Sentina ($30.00), a light sensor that turns on and off automatically when detecting if someone has entered or left the room. Also shown was the Sentina Outback ($45.00), which is similar to the Sentina but is also waterproof. The company also showed the uTimer, a smart light timer that uses a smart sensor to detect dusk, turning on the room lamp automatically. It can shut the light off after selected time duration of four, eight or 12 hours. Suggested retail is $30.

Trust announced that it has begun shipping three design tablets: the TB-7300 widescreen tablet measures 12 inches by 8 inches and retails for a suggested $179. The TB-6300 measures 8 by 6 inches and retails for $99.99, while the TB-5300 measures 5.5 by 4 inches and has a $79.99 retail.