If that's all the ZOMM did it certainly wouldn't be worth 80 bucks. But the thing also moonlights as a fairly decent hands-free speakerphone. Considering the diminutive size of the device, the sound is surprisingly good at both ends of the conversation. While there is currently no volume control, an upcoming firmware update promises to add this.

The ZOMM can also act as a panic button if shit starts to get real. Say you're about to be mugged. Hold the Z button down for 10 seconds and the alarm squeals. We're not sure if a perp would find this aggravating (leading to an ass kicking), scary (leading to him running away), or hilarious (leading to a light ass kicking). The ZOMM will also dial 911 if you keep the button held down for additional 5 seconds. Can't talk to the operator because your mouth is full of bloody Chiclets? The ZOMM also has a GPS that will pinpoint your location.

Initial activation, firmware updates, and programming the emergency call to a number other than 911 are all done via a small downloaded PC app. The lithium ion battery keeps the ZOMM going for about three days but has only enough power to last through, at best, 2 hours of talk time.

Still not bad for a gizmo that can potentially get you out of a jam and more importantly prevent your cellphone from being left behind. But one taxing question remains: If you use a ZOMM too much do you eventually become a ZOMM-bie?

WIRED Multitasks better than Ari Gold. Brain-dead simple to set up and activate. Stays powered for up to three days.

TIRED Lack of volume control dependent on promised firmware updates. Speakerphone doesn't pick up sounds well unless directly in front of you. Emergency call takes at least 15 seconds to initiate.

• Manufacturer: ZOMM
• Price: $80

Authors: Michael S. Lasky

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