Troubled Babyshambles frontman and infamous drug user and abuser Pete Doherty has found himself a new addiction it would seem - he's addicted to virtual life sim and convenient time waster Second Life.
According to a Daily Star source the former Libertines frontman is living a double life which couldn't be further from his own out here on the grimey London streets. The source told the paper that in the game, he's an upstanding citizen, the headmaster of the local school and happily settled down with a wife and three kids. Supposedly his in-game avatar treats his body "like a temple."
Pete's still a troublemaker online, though, says the source: "He is having an affair with the local greengrocer's."
"His mates are slightly amused that Pete's found a slightly healthier and more inspirational addiction," quoth the source. It's hardly very rock and roll though, is it?
[Digital Spy]
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Last week I covered the creation of bulletproof backpacks for school kids in the gun-toting US but now the Finger of Fear is touching UK parents too with increased calls for uniforms to come with GPS tracking.
The surprising, and somewhat alarming news, comes from Trutex, the largest supplier of school uniforms in the UK. According to its survey, 44% of parents want to tag their children with GPS tracking devices while almost 60% would be pay for GPS devices that are incorporated into the school uniform.
Interestingly, 39% of kids from 9-12 years old want to be tagged, saying they feel safer if their parents know where they are. Unsurprisingly, kids aged over 13 were less keen on Mom and Pop knowing their whereabouts.
Clare Rix, Trutex marketing director said: “As a direct result of the survey, we are now seriously considering incorporating a device into future ranges. As well as being a safety net for parents, there could be real benefits for schools who could keep a closer track on the whereabouts of their pupils, potentially reducing truancy levels.”
A sensible move in today’s environment or paranoia running rampant?-Martin Lynch
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As predicted Microsoft has announced price cuts for the Xbox 360 in Europe, just days before the new Xbox Elite comes to market. The move is in some way a reaction to Sony's PS3 price cut in the US – but not here – but mostly to pave the way for the bigger and better Elite console.
The European price has been reduced by €50 and by £30 in the UK, bringing it to £249.99. The entry-level Xbox 360 Core console gets a £20 reduction to £179.99.
The new Xbox Elite, with its black look, HDMI slot and 120GB hard disk drive, will go on sale on Friday for £299.99. There’s also some pricing for accessories including the black wireless controller [£32.99], 120GB hard disk drive [£129.99], back play and charge kit [£14.99] and a black rechargeable battery pack [£9.99].
“We’re pleased to be able to offer Xbox 360 at a new, lower estimated retail price,” said Chris Lewis, regional vice president, Microsoft E&D Europe. “We pioneered the successful concept of multiple products for multiple categories of consumer. First-timers will love the Xbox 360 Core system, which offers an affordable entry into high-definition gaming. The Xbox 360, with its large hard drive and wireless controller, will appeal to casual and experienced gamers and families.”
Come Friday, will you be opting for the Elite or holding out for the rumoured Ultimate?-Martin Lynch
xbox games xbox 360 console PS3
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King of the quirky TV, Hannspree, has launched its portable LCD TV with a difference.
The HANNStime.square LCD TV is a 12in set disguised a big, square sports watch. Hinged arms like a watch's straps open to reveal the TV and close to become a pair of watches with actual Swiss-made movement. The watch faces also display information like temperature, date, humidity and time, of course, alongside your favourite TV programmes. The arms double as the speakers when open.
It’s odd as hell, but then Hannspree have made that a positive rather than a negative for most of its TVs. Check out the cool Pop Art TV and the chic, lacquer HannsVass LCD TV.
Still, this isn't one of its cooler efforts and I think £400 is a bit of a cheek for a dressed up 12in TV. Jump for more shots.-Martin Lynch
[Misco]
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Editor and Contributor | Martin Lynch
Contributor | Tamlin Magee
