14 DAY TRIAL // We've said time and time again that the iPhone is one of the most versatile products ever released, given the huge level of functionality it enables with the simple addition of some external accessories and some suitable apps. Over time, you've been able to see the Apple handset used in all sorts of different scenarios, and now it's time to check out yet another one, this time made available by the Japanese arm of Buffalo Technology. So, the company has recently released its DH-ONE/IP 1-seg TV tuner, that will allow Japanese iPhone 4 owners to turn their beloved companion into a receiver/viewer for the 1Seg mobile digital TV network, which has been available in Japan for quite some time now. Of course, in order to gain access to the programs broadcast via said network (UHF 13 – 62ch), users will also have to visit the Japanese iTunes store and get the dedicated 1seg software app, available for free. And if you happen to be thinking that such an accessory will make the iPhone harder to carry around, then think again, since this thing only measures 30x12x45mm and weighs around 20 grams (which includes a built-in battery, in order not to drain power from the iPhone). Luckily, the tuner from Buffalo provides a much more extensive level of compatibility than just the iPhone 4, the device also working quite well with other Apple products, such as the iPhone 3GS, iPod touch (iOS 4.0 or later) or the iPad. The DH-ONE/IP 1-seg TV tuner from Buffalo sells for around 10,600 Japanese Yen (roughly 128 US dollars), which is actually a rather OK price point, given its features. The only thing we hope is that Buffalo will bring this thing (or rather, a modified version of it) in other parts of the world as well, where mobile Digital TV network systems are in place and working.
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