Intelligent Cash Registers. Duh. They remember who you are, they know your “interests.” They know you! Intel is going to unveil this prototype “register” at the National Retail Federation show in New York on Sunday, but they’re really pushing the system, not the hardware. (Although, they do mention the fact that the hardware will use 90 percent less power than modern check-outs. Nothing to scoff at.)

Let me tell you what a media center is, first of all: it’s a computer. It’s a computer from which you have a bunch of cords and plugs and bluetooth and everything running into and out of so you can, from that one machine, run your whole media experience in your home. What have we got here? “Mod Systems’ GreenPlay” system from Samuel Hoang with Teague – a media center without all the keyboards and mice!

The innovative factor about the Foodle is that it brings oodles of fun to doodling on the dinner table. The set consists of fork, knife and spoon heads that fit snugly over color pencils, and a pad of paper placemats that double up as a doodle board. I’ve seen placemats as puzzle games in family restaurants, but the Foodle goes a step ahead to include a creative cutlery design to make a complete package deal. Good enough for the home and the next door diner as well.