If you have not heard of Targus you should have. They are the leading global provider of notebook carry cases and accessories. We checked out a few of their bags last year and they were nice enough to invite us to check out some of their new products that they will be launching in 2008. Although they did not show us as many products as last year, they did have some new laptop bags and accessories.
Laptop Bags
With everyone going green Targus is as well. They will be releasing a new eco-friendly line with their first series of bags being called the Grove. The Grove has no nickel in it, the plastic in it is recyclable, and they have made the packaging smaller. It will come in a messenger bag, convertible messenger, a top load bag, and a top load convertible. For those who don't know the convertible bags can be used like a messenger then have straps that come out the back that turn it into a backpack. These bags are available now for prices ranging from $69.99 - $99.99.
Another new messenger bag is the Velos. This new fashionable messenger bag will come in 3 different color schemes, chocolate with a chocolate and aqua strap (TSM063US), charcoal with black and lime green strap (TSM06301US), and wheat with mushroom and orange strap (TSM06302US). The straps of the bag run along the side and wrap along the bottom of the case. Since there are 2 straps you can change them up when you get bored of one. We are not sure if Targus will just sell extra straps for people who want them. The laptop compartment on the Velos has dual cushioning with a neoprene sleeve for great laptop protection. Velos messenger bags will be available in May at a street price of $69.99.
This new backpack from Targus is very exciting. The SonicPak is a speaker-backpack that provides a creative way to listen to music on the go. It features NXT speakers on the front. NXT is known for making very small and flat speakers and they go perfectly with this bag. The speakers on the front of the bag can be removed and are made to look like part of the bag so they don't stick out. Also the speakers are protected by a shock-resistant EVA panel, so you don't have to worry about it when out in the elements. On the back part of the speakers there is a spot for your iPod or MP3 player. The SonicPak will fit laptops up to 15.4-inches and will come in the silver you see pictured below. It will be available in March for $99.99.
Accessories
One of the coolest accessories that Targus showed us was the new Travel Power Outlet. It is a 4 port outlet that offers surge protection. The thing that sets it apart from other outlets with surge protection is its size. It is only 2.80" x 10.75" x 7.70" and weighs 8oz. Also the end connects back into itself so there are no extra wires, which makes it perfect for traveling. With a price of only $19.99 it is a must have for people on the go. It will be available next month.
Targus also has 3 new stow-N-go mice for laptops. The new mice feature a tilt-wheel with four-way scrolling for efficient viewing of spreadsheets, photos, images, etc. You can easily adjust the DPI of the mouse with the one-touch button on the mouse. You can go from 1600 to 1200 to 800 DPI. There are 2 retractable mice, an optical version and a laser version. Both have a convenient 2.5 ft. retractable cord, which attaches to the bottom of the mouse for easy travel. There is also a wireless version that features a 2.4GHz wireless USB adapter that tucks right under the mouse for easy access. The retractable optical mouse will retail for $19.99, the retractable laser mouse will retail for $29.99, and the wireless laser mouse will retail for $39.99. All new mice will be available in March.