What? The AE Wi-fi Radio is a wireless internet device combining the sound expertise of Acoustic Energy (AE), Britain's award-winning loudspeaker and hi-fi maker, and internet-radio technology specialist Reciva.
What's so special about that? Described by Hi-Fi World magazine as 'a landmark portable radio, as much for its potential as what it does now', it uses wireless technology to connect to the internet. It comes with 2,500 radio stations pre-set and promises access to more than 99 per cent of all internet radio stations, plus the ability to upload about 10,000 more.
Why do I need one? Many airports, hotels and popular holiday destinations provide high-speed wireless internet access. Forbes magazine estimates there will be 707 million global Wi-fi users by 2008, making products such as the AE radio must-haves for travellers. Measuring 12.5cm by 12.5cm by 1.8cm, it is also suitcase friendly.
How does it work? Plug it in at the mains, switch it on and use the 1970s-style multifunction control knob to select a station. Stations are shown on an LCD display.
Anything else I should know? The radio includes a clock and alarm and the 'listen again' feature allows you to return to radio programmes of your choice. Ten presets register your favourite programmes.
And the downside? Philippe Starck was obviously busy when AE was designing the radio - for something so techno-cool and groundbreaking, its uninspired box-like design is disappointing and it runs on mains only.