Byte size news: iPhiles can now lasso bargains

New Zealand shoppers now have a new tool to help them rope in a bargain.
Lasoo.co.nz has recently launched its iPad and iPhone applications that allow you to find the best deals on the move.
It also integrates with the devices' GPSs to show the nearest store, complete with a map, contact details and opening hours.
"The applications will help transform mobile devices into personal shop assistants giving tech-savvy shoppers a wealth of information, saving time and money," says Lasoo general manager of sales and marketing David Nation.
The Lasoo iPad and iPhone applications can be downloaded for free from the App Store.
Energy drink in the game
Energy drink V is merging the world of online gaming with advertising - the result, one innovative branding exercise.
Evolution is set in three different worlds, - liquid, mechanical and space - with the goal being to reach the planet that holds a crystal that is capable of restoring Earth's energy.
"Evolution is a game that will completely immerse players into a unique and extraordinary V world and give them something to do with all that energy by challenging them mentally," says digital creative director Aaron Turk.
"V Energy is developing some of the most interesting and innovative digital work and pushing the online gaming boundaries while delivering a brand experience."
It has enlisted New Zealand illustration collective Watermar to help create the energised worlds.
In addition to the daily prizes up for grabs, once gamers complete the various worlds they can go into a draw to win major prizes such as a "tricked out" 2003 Mazda RX8, a year's supply of V and a Sony Vaio laptop, or a trip for two to the Nasa Space Centre in Houston, Texas.
For more info check out vrepublic.co.nz
HP receives creative touch
Some top NZ designers have unleashed their creativity on HP. Well, HP notebooks, that is.
Designers Adrian Hailwood, Saben, Sable & Minx and Annah Stretton have released limited-edition skins (adhesive covers) for selected HP notebooks.
The stylish add-ons are available on a first-come first-served basis with selected HP notebooks.
If you're keen to add some style to your computing, check out HP.co.nz
Ultimate hippy-mobile
No longer just a hippy's fantasy, a Canadian company has made a car out of hemp.
To be more exact, the car's body will be made of an impact-resistant composite material produced from mats of hemp.
The Kestral is a compact electric car that can hold four people, has a top speed of 90km/h and a range of up to 40-160km before needing to be recharged. It is still in the prototype and testing stage, but it is hoped that 20 will hit the roads next year.
Got any news, gadgets or queries? Contact lindsay.harvey@apn.co.nz