Photo: MacRumors, Apple iPad Keyboard Dock with blank key

Apple revealed the iPad keyboard dock to the public with a blank key. Overlooked by almost everyone, the mystery key was finally noticed by a member of the Mac Rumors forum, Macduke. The location of the key is in the middle above the number 6 key, traditionally where F6 would be. Macduke believes Apple may assign a function to the blank key before shipment; he also speculates that the function could be to launch a Mac-like dashboard with plenty of widgets, perhaps a “back to home” type of button? Ideal for using as central command screen for communication services like twitter, facebook and iBooks.

Below is a picture of the Apple iPad keyboard dock from their website that has clear view of the mystery blank key. Keep in mind that the blank key details are just a theory; the real function will be disclosed to the public when its actually available for purchase from the Apple store.

It may not even have any function at all, like an unlock key for the screen or even a user-customizable option. Most of us hope it’s for the initiation of the video conferencing option that will use a surprise front facing camera that Apple never told us about.

Photo: Apple iPad Keyboard Dock, Apple Website (Image has been resampled to 200% of original size)

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2010 Toyota Auris Hybrid Concept

Toyota has been taking a beating in the media lately, but that still doesn’t change the huge success they’ve seen from their Prius Hybrid. On that same premise, Toyota has decided to expand the hybrid lineup by adding a compact hybrid hatchback, the hybrid version of the Auris 2010 to be unveiled at the Geneva motor show.

In order to keep the competition going, the new model will be priced much lower than the Prius and other models like Honda’s more affordable hybrid. Exterior changes are small, the Auris will have a new bumper with integrated fogs (on the TR and SR), new headlights, modifications to the bonnet and a new grill that is clearly part of the  Toyota family theme.

A 1.8-liter I-4 is part of the “Hybrid Synergy Drive” system, with an 80-hp electric motor and electrically variable transmission. The concept aims to increase gas mileage by using low rolling resistance tires, smoothing the underbody panels to reduce drag, and a lower ride height for stability, most should be seen through to the final product.

Sad news for North America, Toyota currently has no plans on bringing the Auris Hybrid to it, however they have promised to incorporate its hybrid system into its entire lineup over the next decade, that means a Corolla or Matrix hybrid is in the not-so-distant future.

2010 Toyota Auris Hybrid Concept Photo Gallery

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Formula 1 engineers create BERU Factor 001 bicycle

Formula 1 engineers have proven their genius and created something out of the box, yes its true –this time it’s not a car, not even a motorcycle but a bicycle.

It’s a master-piece creation of BERU F1 Systems (British engineering firm), factor 001 was designed from the ground up as an “integrated, cohesive device” according to the ideas of the talented engineers of BERU. BERU was keen about what a customer would desire and what they would really love to see in a dream bicycle, thus they introduced features like carbon fiber monocoque frame, carbon-ceramic brakes and an LCD touch-screen that displays biometrics and several other readings to distract the rider and crash into a wall. Luckily carbon fibre is nearly indestructable.

Each factor 001 takes six engineers to build the master-piece an entire week. Hence, BERU will produce only a few hundred factor 001 bicycles. A factor 001 bicycle is currently on a display at the London’s Science Museum and Harrod’s department store at price £22,000 (that equals around 34,000 US$).  It won’t be a surprise to see many top racing professionals trying out this bicycle.

BERU Factor 001 Bicycle Image Gallery

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