Wi-Fi rabbits getting everywhere

Among the internet gadgets that French-based company Voilet sells is a Wi-Fi enabled Rabbit. This device is designed to show 'emotions' rather than just be a plain old terminal.

The product was first announced back in April 2005, but it appears that Violet's associated content site, Nabaztag, has just begun to push its services seriously. Hence reviews springing up everywhere.

The Nabaztag Rabbit is actually a standalone device. It can connect to Wi-Fi (802.11b & g) without the need for a PC or Apple Mac connection. Once you've purchased the Rabbit you can  register with the Nabaztag online site and set up your preferences. You can then make the Rabbit wiggle his ears, light up his body, play music, talk and sing.

So if you subscribe to a weather forecast service, for example, the Rabbit will turn yellow to indicate sunshine ahead. A number of the services provided by Nabaztag are free, whereas the usual suspects – such as share prices – will require a paid-for subscription.

The Rabbit is already available in trendy UK shops and department stores like Selfridges as well as being available online. Brits should try the Conran shop and the Design Museum Shop. Other online stores include Allnum, MageekStore, Robopolis and MyC razy Stuff. Expect to pay around £80 for this animal.

Rather than buying the Rabbit, closet hippies might like to consider the Dal lamp or the Stelight, both of which flash soothing lights depending on the information it is receiving.