Monday, February 4, 2002		Lens on IT

Japanese toymaker Takara Co Ltd demonstrates its new submarine "Divergear" operated by a four-channel infrared remote controller (background) at an unveiling of new products by Takara and equity partner Konami in Tokyo. The toymakers unveiled the 2002 series of DigiQ toys including submarines and tanks to join its popular series of mini cars. 

The Treo 180, Handpring's new personal digital assistant, sports a built-in cell phone, an Internet browser, e-mail features and a small keyboard and may give Palm Inc. more than a slap across the wrist. Originally slated for U.S. store shelves in February, Handspring is pushing back the retail release until March, though units will be available through Handspring's Website next month for $399. The colour display version will retail for $599.

Children present the new Nintendo gamecube which will be on sale from March 3 during a preview at the Nuremberg Toy Fair. The world's largest toy fair was inaugurated last week and hosted 2837 exhibitors from 54 countries.

A Japanese woman tries out a virtual snowboard game "gingin boarders" during a demonstration in Tokyo. By plugging the game, a player can hop onto the board and enjoy virtual snowboarding by selecting from four different courses and competition rules.

— Reuters photos