technology

We knew about the launch of the iPod Jeans from Levi Strauss a few months ago, but thanks to Engadget, we finally know what they look like. The jeans have an iPod docking link attached to a red ribbon wire that is hidden in a side pocket, and a small control unit is built into a higher, hip-height pocket, offering the only real advantage over simply putting your iPod into a pocket of jeans you already own. A retractable - and hopefully detachable - headphone unit is included. Each pair is said to be €199.99 ( $257), but our guess is that you'll have to pay extra for dry cleaning and other special treatment, since these are probably no washing machine friendly.

While the iBar isn't something that many people are likely to have installed in their homes, it may just be the next big design trend for upscale eateries and nightclubs. iBar is an interactive surface system on which any visual content can be projected, including still images and videos. More interesting than that is the fact that the surface uses an intelligent tracking system to digitally keep track of objects on the bar and their position and movements can be tracked with colored lights. The virtual objects can even be interacted with, which would give bar patrons yet another way to entertain themselves.

[via MocoLoco]

We have lots of tiny headphones on Luxist because for many things, smaller seems better. This logic does not apply to everything, however, since some things are better when they're bigger, like limos, diamonds and estates. And in this case, headphones are better when they 're bigger, too. The Grado Statement Series GS1000 Headphones have nearly unbeatable sound quality and are certainly at the top of the line for personal headphones. The wooden housing and foam cushioning makes the headphones light and comfortable, but also "creates a "room" for the ears to sit in," which enhances the sounds even further. These signature headphones are also one of the most expensive models on the market today priced at £650 ($1,187).

Swapsets are the perfect combination of fashion and function for a girl who needs to have her phone or mp3 player close to her at all times. Basically, earphones and headsets - which will work with many cell phones - clip onto a headband of your choice, making it look less like you're wearing a phone and more like you're making a fashion statement with a cute headband. You can mix and match to create combinations that match your outfit or your personality and, since the pieces are all sold separately as well as in packages, you won't run out of options easily. The headbands can be further adorned with beaded dangles.

Use the Swapshop to create your own starter combination in the colors and design that you like best. Prices start at $60.

[via Popgadget]

AR Home Decor, from Audiovox, is a line of various covers to camoflague your sound system. Unlike many stereo disguises, these do not take any form of rock or sculpture, meant to be used outdoors, but include clocks, books, vases and wall sconces. My favorite part of the line are the trunks that hold the sub-woofers, because having a large trunk in the room is a good deal more subtle than having a subwoofer. In all seriousness though, the majority of the designs are quite clever and, as long as they match the overall look of the room you want to use them in, can be a great addition to the home.

JetBlue Airways, which offers discounted fares but lots of appealing perks, has just won a 1 megahertz wireless license from the FCC with a bid of $7 million. This means that the company will be able to offer wireless air-ground internet access, which it plans to do shortly, and other on-board communication services to fliers. It has not yet been determined whether cellphone usage will be allowed any time soon, though it is possible under the new service package. In any event, opening up the option to work online will be a huge boon to business travelers.

Surfing the internet will also be a good choice for those traveling for pleasure. For example, instead of watching the in-flight film, you could be reading Luxist!