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Poison's Bret Michaels Not Really a 'Guitar Hero'



Hard-rocking Bret Michaels hit it big back in the '80s as lead singer for the wild hair-metal band Poison. The band stormed the Top 40 Charts and conquered the radio waves with hits like "Every Rose Has It's Thorn" and "Talk Dirty to Me," and it's still selling out concerts today. Aside from the band, Michaels has worked with other artists like Stevie Nicks and Kenny Chesney, and he's even branched out to producing, directing and acting in films. Bret's new solo album, 'Rock My World,' lands this summer (June 3), and he filled us in on his favorite gadgets. Though he might not be the most skilled 'Guitar Hero' player out there, Michaels stays in touch by keeping a classic old school pager by his side.


What gadgets do you always bring with you to the set?


My iPod Touch, Its great, I have my music and my movies all on one device, I can watch or listen on a bus or a plane or where ever.


What cell phone do you have right now and what do you love/hate about it?

I still have a pager, I plan on keeping it till they eventually just go out of business. I haven't got a page or a bill for it in 6 months so maybe they already did.


Who's the last person you sent a text message to and what was it about?

I don't really text, I get texts and utilize the technology to get information, but Im not good at texting back.


Where do you go (site or service) pretty much every time you get online?

I pry around Myspace, go to several sports sites and of course the AOL channels. My kids and my solo band really have forced me to be part of the cyber age, without them I wouldn't know where to go


What annoys you most about your iPod, cell phone, or laptop?

I still use a cell phone, not a PDA type of device so I get overly annoyed by having to hit the number keys over and over to try to text, which takes me back to my previous answer about texting.


Name one thing you wish your iPod/cellphone/laptop could do that it doesn't do now?

I wish there was a way to record directly into the I pod, so if I had an idea for a song I could just hit a button and sing into it. I know there is an add on gadget that you can get, but I wish it was built in.


What upcoming gadget can you not wait to get your hands on?

Ya know, I don't really look into whats coming out, I usually see someone with something then get interested in it. So I'm not sure really, but I'm interested in getting one of the handheld HD cams that record directly onto hard drives instead of tape.


You're stranded on a desert island: What gadget do you bring?

My iPod Touch with a solar powered battery charger, loaded with 'The Simpsons' and 'Dave Chapelle.'


What's the most-played song or artist on your iPod?

I really just keep it on shuffle, but Thin Lizzy, Kenny Chesney, Nickelback and Foo Fighters pop up often.


BlackBerry, Sidekick, or Treo?

Motorola Pager, but my staff all has blackberry's that I pay for so i guess that makes them mine and makes my answer Blackberry.


Do you have an iPhone?

No, my guitar player has one and his cheek always hits the key pad and hangs up on me.


What's the longest time you've ever spent playing a video game in one sitting and what game was it?

Im not really a video game guy at all, but my daughter and me have played 'Guitar Hero' a few hours at a time, its embarrassing that two of my songs are on the game and I cant play it very well.


Mac or PC?

Both, For business and e mail I use a pc, but my studio and all creative work run on a Mac

Gadget Gabbing With the Beach Boys' Bruce Johnson

The Switched Questionnaire: The Beach Boys
If there's one band we love to whip out come warmer weather, it's the Beach Boys, who are a natural fit for summer fun. Maybe that's why we're once again whipping out this interview, which was conducted just before last year's release of The Warmth of the Sun (Capitol), a compilation of greatest hits that were hand-picked and sequenced by members of the band (including Brian Wilson). The album also includes six new tracks remastered in stereo for the first time. Switched was lucky enough to score an interview with Bruce Johnson, who joined the band in 1965 after Brian Wilson left. We figured Johnson would be into his MacBook -- he's a musician after all -- but we were pleasantly surprised when we found out he's a big fan of AOL, which were happy about considering we're owned by AOL. (Just so you know, we didn't ask him to give props to AOL -- he really likes it!)


What gadgets do you always bring with you to the set?

I always travel with my MacBook and tons of DVD's. I plug in my Apple Airport Express in order to be wireless in hotel rooms. I video chat via AIM/AOL with my four sons when I'm touring in the Beach Boys world of wonder. I suppose I should add an iPod one of these days but I'm always playing my iTunes while I work on my MacBook (listening through very cool Bose noise cancellation headphones).


What cell phone do you have right now and what do you love/hate about it?


I have a reliable clunky low tech and steam-powered year-old Nokia....I can talk, text, pick up messages and not take fuzzy pictures....Perfect for an old surf guy.

Who's the last person you sent a text message to and what was it about?


My recent text was from my 25 year old son Justin telling me about his new job in corporate strategic planning at a major Las Vegas hotel group (recent MBA paid for by Dad's surf music career...Thanks Mike & Brian!). One more thing: Justin also texted me to send him money for unforeseen 'expenses.'

Where do you go (site or service) pretty much every time you get online?


I go to AOL to see if I still have a friend or two & then I camp out on Google (the world's Ouija board!).


What annoys you most about your iPod, cell phone, or laptop (or any other gadget)?


I love having an iPod...I dislike dropped cell phone calls...but I wish I could marry AOL & also marry my MacBook! I'm not really annoyed at much except for having to choose between a Democrat and Republican soon! Hmmm....I should probably write in Christina Aguilera on the ballot.


Name one thing you wish your iPod/cellphone/laptop (any gadget) could do that it doesn't do now?


I wish my technology could help me figure out a way to create a workable and realistic U.S. flat tax.


What upcoming gadget can you not wait to get your hands on?

I'd like a gear in my car that says "Home, no tickets" after a vodka martini.


You're stranded on a desert island: What gadget do you bring?


Stranded on a desert island? I'd have a water maker, sun block, and a satellite phone (powered by solar cells). Also, I'd have a surfer girl there to keep me company.


Tell us what's the most-played song or artist on your iPod?

As I'm still without an iPod but listening to iTunes...anything recorded after 1954 by Frank Sinatra is always at the top of my playlist. Remember, I was born before guys wore untucked dress shirts and used four letter words in front of girls. FYI: I also check out tunes on AOL Radio.


BlackBerry, Sidekick, or Treo?


A Blackberry, Sidekick, or Treo won't be in my life 'cuz my fingers are too large and my eyes require atomic glasses these days.


Are you getting an iPhone-if so, why?

Not yet. I kinda like using my cell phone but I also chat over AIM/AOL via camera or voice on my MacBook. For now that's all I really need.


What's the longest time you've ever spent playing a video game in one sitting and what game was it?

I do not play video games. I'm usually working with ProTools and the MacBook in my studio trying to chase one last elusive songwriting hit before I retire to only surfing (and I'm serious about the waves).


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Elise Neal Wants Her Curve!




A former high-school homecoming queen, Elise Neal displays her talents in acting, dancing and singing. She's best known for her roles in 'Scream 2,' Spike Lee's 'Malcom X' and her recent performance in the critically acclaimed 'Hustle and Flow.' She's also danced and performed in videos with Aretha Franklin, 50 Cent and Vanessa Williams. In our latest Switched Questionnaire, Elise raves about that gadget-fave-of-celebs, the BlackBerry.


What gadgets do you always bring with you to the set?

The gadget I am never without is my BlackBerry. Or as we like to call it, the "crackberry" because it's so addictive.


What cell phone do you have right now and what do you love/hate about it?

I love my BlackBerry


Who's the last person you sent a text message to and what was it about?

The last person I sent a message to was my assistant. I'm on the road with a play and the gadget is really helpful


Where do you go pretty much every time you get online?

I'm a clothes junky! So I'm usually online with a clothing companies site! The last one was gucci.com. Checking out resort wear


What annoys you most about your iPod, cell phone, or laptop?

Keeping up with latest updates and new additions can be annoying but not enough to not make me want to keep up


Name one thing you wish your iPod/cellphone/laptop could do that it doesn't do now?

I wish I could get more music on the handset I have.


What's the most-played song or artist on your iPod?

Alicia Keys' latest CD, and, of course, my own group's music, Elise and Assorted Flavors, will be the heaviest rotations


Three Gadgets Gavin Rossdale Never Leaves Home Without



London-born Gavin Rossdale first achieved mainstream success in the mid 90s as lead singer of the grunge rock band Bush. Though the group didn't catch on in England, Bush found success stateside with big radio hits 'Glycerine,' 'Swallowed' and 'Machinehead.' Gavin married Gwen Stefani in the early 00s. Not content to work only in music, Gavin has acted in Hollywood with parts in movies like 'Constantine' and 'Little Black Book.'

Gavin's first solo album 'Wanderlust' is due out in June, and he took time to answer our Switched Questionnaire. Though Gavin isn't a big gamer, he always keeps connected with his BlackBerry, iPod and laptop.


What gadgets do you always bring with you for down time?

The BlackBerry
Roasted brown rice tea
iPod
Laptop


What cell phone do you have right now and what do you love/hate about it?

My Curve. Love the BlackBerry Messenger. Photos could be better but I like it a lot. My son Kingston threw my iPhone away in Australia. I was enjoying it...


Who's the last person you sent a text message to and what was it about?

I just texted my friend Mark in London who's cycling in the dark without a light. I was trying to tell him to get a light.


Where do you go pretty much every time you get online?

The Guardian newspaper's site


What annoys you most about your iPod, cell phone, or laptop?

Losing them.


Name one thing you wish your iPod/cellphone/laptop could do that it doesn't do now?

It should stop me doing something when I'm pissed off.


What upcoming gadget can you not wait to get your hands on?

My new baby.


You're stranded on a desert island: What gadget do you bring?

Well my laptop has a lot of potential. Millions of empty pages to write on. And can I get online? That'd be perfect -- stranded no more...


What's the most-played song or artist on your iPod?

Recently, Burial. And before that, probably Radiohead.


Blackberry, Sidekick, or Treo?

Curve


Would you ever get an iPhone?

Digging the Curve right now -- online all the time. The iPhone sure is pretty.


What's the longest time you've ever spent playing a video game in one sitting and what game was it?

3 days solid with no sleep -- game called "life."


Mac or PC?

Mac all the way. PCs are a different universe to me. Double dutch w/ cream on.

Adult Film Stars Reveal Their Gadget Faves

Earlier this year in Las Vegas, the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) was forced to share the stage with another major exhibition of consumer products, bigwigs and dealmakers. At the Sands Expo convention center, the annual Adult Video News (AVN) Adult Entertainment Expo -- a trade show in its tenth year showcasing adult talent and exhibitors -- was also in full swing. Since the event attracts over 30,000 international buyers and fans of adult entertainment, it seemed like the perfect place for at least some of the Switched team to interview the top female stars in adult entertainment about -- what else -- the role of gadgets, gizmos and technology in their busy off-set lives.

We had seven different stars answer our Switched Questionnaire and you'll want to know what they had to say. We also sent out a separate videographer to film gadget-related interviews with 22 other adult stars, the results of which are highlighted in the above exclusive Switched video. To find out more, watch the video. Then, for even more saucy gadget talk, take a look at the interviews we've got lined up in ing pages.

And if words or video simply aren't doing the trick, we've also got a stunning gallery waiting for you at the end.

(Video and posts are safe for work, but some content may not be appropriate for younger viewers.)




What Makes Gossip Girl's Leighton Meester Tick (and Type)?




Leighton Meester is beautiful, successful, and, like all celebrities with an ounce of ambition, inseparable from her BlackBerry. These days, Meester can be seen personifying teen angst in the popular show 'Gossip Girl' where she plays Blair Waldorf, a young socialite with a healthy appetite for the spotlight.

Though primarily known for her aforementioned role, Meester has been around for years, having appeared in everything from 'CSI Miami' to last year's indie flick 'Flourish' and the just-releasted 'Remember the Daze,' in which she plays a -- surprise, surprise -- a high-school student. When she isn't on set or closing deals, she is recording music. Golly do we feel inadequate.

Okay, we get it, she is multi-talented and destined for greatness. There are, however, topics of extreme importance that must be discussed to realize the true depths of Leighton Meester. We tracked her down to find out what really makes her tick. And type.




What gadgets do you always bring with you to the set for down-time?


I bring my iPod and my BlackBerry. I listen to my iPod in my trailer while I'm getting my hair and makeup done.


What cell phone do you have right now and what do you love/hate about it?

I have a BlackBerry. I love it because I can get business done anywhere and anytime.


Who's the last person you sent a text message to and what was it about?

The last message I sent was to my friend, Jess about answering these questions!


Where do you go pretty much every time you get online?

I go to CNN.com....Boring!


What annoys you most about your iPod, cell phone, or laptop (or any other gadget)?

My cell phone doesn't get great service on both coasts, which is hard because I am constantly traveling back and forth from Los Angeles to New York.


Name one thing you wish your iPod/cellphone/laptop could do that it doesn't do now?

I wish my phone had a button on it that could unlock my car door, because I usually have it in my hand then anyway.


What upcoming gadget can you not wait to get your hands on?

A cell phone that gets great service on both coasts.


You're stranded on a desert island: What gadget do you bring?

If I were stranded on a desert island I would probably want a ham radio so that I could be rescued!


What's the most-played song or artist on your iPod?

Technically, the most played song is 'Girl from the North Country' by Bob Dylan.


BlackBerry, Sidekick, or Treo?

BlackBerry


Do you have or are you planning to get an iPhone?

No


What's the longest time you've ever spent playing a video game in one sitting and what game was it?

Recently, I have spent some long nights playing rock band.


Mac or PC?

Mac. Why not?

Snoop Dogg Is a Gadget Hound



Born in Long Beach California, superstar MC and hip-hop artist Snoop Dogg got his start in the West Coast gangsta rap scene in the early '90s. After exploding into the rap world with Dr. Dre on The Chronic, Snoop Dogg spent his time creating some of the hottest tracks of the past decade, including 'Gin and Juice' and 'Drop It Like It's Hot,' while also finding time to star in films like 'Half-Baked,' 'Old School,' 'Training Day' and 'Bones.' (He even showed up on a Season 2 episode of 'Weeds.')

Snoop Dogg's highly-anticipated new album, the Teddy-Riley-produced 'Ego Trippin,' is out now. The first single, 'Sensual Seduction,' has been a huge success with its '70s-and-early-'80s-inspired vintage sound (and video).

We've also gathered from our various forays into celeb-studded video game events that Snoop Dogg is also huge gadget fan, so we sent him some questions, and he actually wrote us back. Read on to see Snoop Dogg's unexpurgated thoughts on the iPhone, Slingbox, and more.


What gadgets do you always bring with you to the set?

Mac, 360, iPhone, Sidekick, BlackBerry, Slingbox, chuuch


What cell phone do you have right now and what do you love/hate about it?

I use all 3 – iphone, blackberry, n sidekick


Who's the last person you sent a text message to and what was it about?

Teddy Riley and DJ Quik about qdt


Where do you go (site or service) pretty much every time you get online?

Youtube


What annoys you most about your iPod, cell phone, or laptop?

When they freeze up or when my sling box doesn't work overseas, ya dig?!?


Name one thing you wish your iPod/cellphone/laptop could do that it doesn't do now?

nuffin. They do it all


What upcoming gadget can you not wait to get your hands on?

Madden every year


You're stranded on a desert island: What gadget do you bring?
iPod – I got music n movies on it or def my sling box


What's the most-played song or artist on your iPod?

that's a tuff question.....


BlackBerry, Sidekick, or Treo?


BlackBerry and Sidekick.


Are you getting an iPhone-if so, why?

Just got one last week.


What's the longest time you've ever spent playing a video game in one sitting and what game was it?

Madden, couple hours, I always win the tournaments when we play on tour. That's why I be playin tha longest.


Do you use/have a Mac or PC? Why?

Mac, cuz they tha shit. I can do anything on it.


Related Links:

Singer Taylor Dayne Has Two BlackBerrys



In case you don't remember the name, you'll recognize Taylor Dayne's powerful voice as soon as you hear her massive late '80s hit dance single, "Tell It To My Heart." After a few years away from music-making, she's back with "Beautiful," a new single climbing up Billboard's pop charts. The track comes from her new album, "Satisfied," which features new original songs and covers of songs by the Rolling Stones and Red Hot Chili Peppers.

Taylor keeps connected with not one, but two BlackBerry handsets, which she discusses with us in the latest Switched Questionnaire. Read on.

What gadgets do you always bring with you to the set?


My BlackBerry


What cell phone do you have right now and what do you love/hate about it?

I have my BlackBerry 8800 or the Curve -- depends which one is up and running at the time. Hate: I'm addicted to texting. Love: there's a camera now on the device.


Who's the last person you sent a text message to and what was it about?

I e-mailed my publicist about a Hermes event in NYC.


Where do you go pretty much every time you get online?

I usually end up on Google searching for various things from tadpole food for my kids soon-to-be-frog to synthetic grass for my pool area.


What annoys you most about your iPod, cell phone, or laptop?

Knowing I haven't backed it up and sooner or later every device gets lost ,stolen, or crashes


Name one thing you wish your iPod/cellphone/laptop could do that it doesn't do now?

I wish it could read my mind. Back itself up.


What upcoming gadget can you not wait to get your hands on?

I need an XBox 360 for my kid now .


You're stranded on a desert island: What gadget do you bring?

I phone to call for help while I watch a movie.


What's the most-played song or artist on your iPod?

My new record "Satisfied".


BlackBerry, Sidekick, or Treo?

BlackBerry


Will you ever get an iPhone?

Not yet. In a year


What's the longest time you've ever spent playing a video game in one sitting and what game was it?

I played tons of video games at rehearsal studios and on sets , I just got one for my kids and I still have the old school Galaga -- Love it.


Mac or PC?

I'm a Mac girl -- just always was and have always had a PowerBook.


Related Links:

Switched Questionnaire: Fugees' Pras, BlackBerry Addict



Raised in New York and New Jersey, Pras is a multi-talented actor, singer, producer and song-writer. In the early '90s, Pras, along with Lauryn Hill and Wyclef Jean, rose to international fame as part of the Fugees, the hugely influential, Grammy Award-winning hip-hop group. While recording, releasing and supporting 'The Score,' Pras finished up a double major in psychology and philosophy at Rutgers and Yale. He soon released his own solo album and had a hit single with the track 'Ghetto Superstar,' a collaboration with ODB and Mya.

Pras launched an acting career in the late 90s, appearing in films like 'Mystery Men' and 'Higher Ed.' In 2007, after documenting the homeless in downtown Los Angeles in 'Skid Row,' Pras started a non-profit, PRASperity, to raise awareness of and create solutions for poverty.

Pras took time from his packed schedule -- his new solo album, 'Experience Magic' is coming out this Spring -- to tell us about his gadget habits and interests.

What gadgets do you always bring with you to the set (for down-time?


I can't live without the BlackBerry - I take it with me everywhere. I am constantly on the net getting breaking news alerts, and giving feedback on my foundation PRASperity house. Also my iPod cause I critique the music for Experience Magic, my new album coming out this summer.


What cell phone do you have right now and what do you love/hate about it?

Right now I've got Verizon's new RED BlackBerry and I love it- no complaints.


Who's the last person you sent a text message to and what was it about?

Barack Obama- we are trying to organize a fundraiser for his campaign.


Where do you go pretty much every time you get online?


First I check out any updates for Skidrowthemovie.com then straight to Eventful.com to see who voted on the film, then to indiepixfilm.com to check on pre-orders. After responding to fan mail on MySpace, I check out my Gmail which I can't live without...


What annoys you most about your iPod, cell phone, or laptop
?

I know my BlackBerry can do a lot more – but sometimes I feel the technology isn't there yet...


Name one thing you wish your iPod/cellphone/laptop (any gadget) could do that it doesn't do now?


Video streaming is a big part of my personal website which has info on my Skid Row doc as well as clips from the upcoming album coming out early summer. I want to be able to have more access to that via my blackberry.


What upcoming gadget can you not wait to get your hands on?

I hear there is a new BlackBerry in the works that Verizon is supporting that allows you to download video – cannot wait to see that.


You're stranded on a desert island: What gadget do you bring?

Cell phone - so I can get off the island


What's the most-played song or artist on your iPod?


It's a tie - 'Ruby Tuesday' by The Rolling Stones and 'Can't Hurry Love' by The Supremes


BlackBerry, Sidekick, or Treo?


BlackBerry -- all day

Mac or PC?


Mac all day- It's sexy, friendlier, its for the artists...


Related Links:

Californication's Rachel Miner Can't Wait to Get a Roomba



Actress Rachel Miner got her first big break in the' 80s when Woody Allen picked her for a role in 'Alice.' Since then, Rachel has been steadily working in television and the movies. She acted for years on daytime soap-opera 'Guiding Light,' and also appeared in hit TV series like 'Sex and the City' and 'CSI.'

She is currently starring in Showtime's new series 'Californication' -- also starring David Duchovony -- where she plays the role of Dani California, a secretary with double-crossing tendencies. Rachel got back to us with answers to the Switched Questionnaire. Although she's decidedly old-school when it comes to gaming, Rachel knows her way around the newest gadgets and is a huge music fan.

What gadgets do you always bring with you to the set for down-time?

My iPod, in fact I'll sometimes listen to it right up to the point the camera is set to role. The music really helps me stay focussed on the scene ahead. Downside is, when I do so, I sometimes am less aware of the environment around me. I'm not sure sure if it looks very sane to the people around me when I am bouncing around to music they can't hear. Oh well.


What cell phone do you have right now and what do you love/hate about it?

I have a Helio. I get service absolutely everywhere -- seriously, even inside elevators in underground parking lots. I guess I have a bit of a love hate relationship with the cute chirping sounds it makes when I dial. I think they're adorable, but they can bit intrusive when I'm in a quiet room surrounded by other people, I should probably turn that feature off, but it's so darn cute.


Who's the last person you sent a text message to and what was it about?

My boyfriend, some lovely dovey text. Yes... I am a girl, sorry.


Where do you go pretty much every time you get online?

I'm a huge fan of dictionaryreference.com... basically because I'm a geek. I also really dig TV's Top Five on AOL, basically cause I don't actually watch tv much and it keeps me from being a social outcast who doesn't know what's going on.


What annoys you most about your iPod, cell phone, or laptop?

They don't listen to reason! Try as I might to debate the finer points of why my laptop, iPod and cell phone should obey my every whim they so often blindly refuses to do what I ask despite the logic of my argument.


Name one thing you wish your iPod/cellphone/laptop could do that it doesn't do now?

Bedsides obey my every whim? Well, I guess it would be awesome if they cleaned my house too and had buttons which could pause time so I could actually have an opportunity to respond to all my messages without it taking up my whole day.


What upcoming gadget can you not wait to get your hands on?

I know I'll want whatever the next generation of Mac laptops is. Isn't that the game, every-time I think I'm up to date I go into the Mac store and there's a new computer that that's ten times cooler then the one I have. That and even though it's already out I still want a Roomba. I saw an ad for that and it looks so cool. I told you I want a computer that cleans my house.


You're stranded on a desert island: What gadget do you bring? (Give reason why.)

My cell phone, and a solar power charger. Does that defeat the question? Obviously I wouldn't be stranded for long in that case.


What's the most-played song or artist on your iPod?

It rotates, but my current top played list includes: The Pretenders, Otis Redding, Pulp, U2, Pixies, Spiritualized, David Bowie, Sigar Ros, Damien Rice, Postal Service, The Verve, Johnny Cash, John Lennon, Travis, The Cranberries, Chris Isaak, Firewater, The Band, Aretha Franklin, Etta James, Bob Marley, Bob Dylan, Marvin Gaye, Peter Gabriel, Muddy Waters, and just discovered 'Maps' by the Yeah, Yeah, Yeahs.

Yes, I have eclectic taste. The songs on my ipod range from Alice in Chains to Irish Folk music.


BlackBerry, Sidekick, or Treo?

Wow, I'm lame still using my cell phone to make calls and text message, I seriously need to catch up.


Are you getting an iPhone-if so, why?

At some point probably, love all the nifty features. I mean with what other phone could you spy on your friends houses from a birds eye view? Seriously, though it seems like an really fun useful gadget and it's cool looking.


What's the longest time you've ever spent playing a video game in one sitting and what game was it?

Your going to have to time warp back with me to the week that Super Mario Brothers 3 came out on the original Nintendo. Just to save face though, I have played video games since. Really liking 'Rock Band' and 'Wii sports.' But just haven't had the same kind of free time that I had when I was 10.


Mac or PC?

Mac. It's prettier and it explains things to me in cute symbols I don't have to have an IQ to understand. Honestly, can't make heads or tales of PC's.


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Angela Bassett Loves Her iPhone



Angela Bassett has worked in theater and television, but her career so far has been best defined by her work in film. In the early '90s, she found roles in 'Boyz 'N The Hood' and 'Malcolm X,' and soon gave an Academy Award-nominated performance for her portrayal of Tina Turner in Tina Turner in 'What's Love Got to Do With It.'

Angela also starred in 'Waiting to Exhale' and 'How Stella Got Her Groove Back,' and she's worked with the likes of Whitney Houston, Spike Lee, Forest Whitaker and countless others. Her newest film, 'Meet the Browns,' finds her playing a single mom returning to Georgia for her father's funeral, and she meets the rest of her family for the first time.

Angela took time from her busy schedule -- she also helps out in the community and is an Ambassador for UNICEF -- and talked to us about technology for the Switched Questionnaire.


What was the best moment you had on the set while filming?

Family dinner


What's your favorite thing to watch in HD?

Discovery Channel HD


What gadgets do you always bring with you to the set for down-time?


None really, I'm too busy connecting with cast and crew.


What cell phone do you have right now and what do you love about it?


iPhone. I love the touch control. And I love that it lets me have pictures, music, directions all in one place


Where do you go pretty much every time you get online?


E-mails


What annoys you most about your iPod, cell phone, or laptop?


Does what it wants to do, human error


What upcoming gadget can you not wait to get your hands on?


Tying to familiarize myself with my present gadgets!!!


You're stranded on a desert island: What gadget do you bring?

Computer -- lets me stay connected and informed.


What's the most-played song or artist on your iPod?


Miles Davis' 'Anything'


BlackBerry, Sidekick, or Treo?


Treo


What's the longest time you've ever spent playing a video game in one sitting and what game was it?

Pacman – one minute

Mac or PC?

Mac. It's compatible with my iPhone and my old PC was done for.


Related Links:

Four Questions for Shutter's Rachael Taylor



Australian actress Rachael Taylor hails from Launceston, Tasmania, and she's worked with everyone from director Peter Bogdanavich on 'The Mystery of Natalie Wood' to actors Hugh Jackman and Ewan McGregor in the upcoming 'Deception.' Her acting career started with roles on Australian shows shows, but more recently she's found success with a supporting role as Maggie Madsen in the recent blockbuster, 'Transformers.'

Rachael Taylor is now starring in 'Shutter', a remake of a hit Thai horror film in which ominous ghosts begin to appear in a couple's photographs. The new film reimagines the characters as Americans visiting Tokyo. Rachael Taylor took time to answer just four questions from our Switched Questionnaire.


What gadgets do you always bring with you to the set for down-timee or simply to stay in touch?


Whenever I am on any set, I always have my iPod. Life needs a soundtrack. My BlackBerry came too. It's my portable little office.


What annoys you most about your iPod, cell phone, or mobile computer?


Dropped calls on my cell phone!!! It's infuriating. I get violent. Everyone understands the frustration of this.


Name one thing you wish your iPod/cellphone/laptop could do that it does not currently do?


I have a Mio Digiwalker, basically a pocket GPS navigation system that is helpful when you are in a random city. And it was super useful in Tokyo (where I filmed Shutter) but I really wish I could program it to have a less irritating, less robotic vocal instruction. The voice that tell me to 'turn left in 500 feet' always sounds likes it's mocking me. It probably is.


If you use an iPod, what artist do you listen to most?

Kanye West



Related Links:

Cheryl Hines Wishes Her BlackBerry Was "Cuter"



Although Cheryl Hines is best known for her role as Larry David's wife on 'Curb Your Enthusiasm,' she has been working as an actress, producer, and comedy writer for years. She's appeared on 'Friends,' 'Reno 911!,' 'Scrubs, 'Everybody Loves Raymond,' and in several feature films.

Cheryl, a real-life poker fanatic, stars in the new film 'The Grand', an improv comedy -- or mockumentary in the vein of Christopher Guest's 'Best In Show' or 'This is Spinal Tap' -- about world class poker players. She took a break from the poker table to answer the Switched Questionnaire.


What gadgets do you always bring with you to the set?

BlackBerry


What cell phone do you have right now and what do you love/hate about it?

BlackBerry. Love it because I can e-mail and text easily. I wish it was cuter.


Who's the last person you sent a text message to and what was it about?

Ray Romano about 'The Grand' premiere


Where do you go (site or service) pretty much every time you get online?

AOL mail


What annoys you most about your iPod, cell phone, or laptop (or any other gadget)?

When my computer freezes


Name one thing you wish your iPod/cell phone/laptop could do that it doesn't do now?

Sit through hair and make up for me


What upcoming gadget can you not wait to get your hands on?

I'm already happy, people


You're stranded on a desert island: What gadget do you bring? (Give reason why.)

BlackBerry - so I could call someone to rescue me.


What's the most-played song or artist on your iPod?

Kanye West


BlackBerry, Sidekick, or Treo?

BlackBerry


Are you getting an iPhone-if so, why?

No


What's the longest time you've ever spent playing a video game in one sitting and what game was it?

Poker. I'll let you know when I'm done


Mac or PC?

PC


Related Links:

Action Star Donnie Yen Talks Tech



Though you may not immediately recognize the name, you've probably seen martial arts star Donnie Yen in countless movies. As an actor, Donnie has worked with the likes of Jackie Chan, Wesley Snipes and Michelle Yeoh, and he fought opposite Jet Li in two of the best fight sequences ever captured on film ('Once Upon a Time in China II' and 'Hero'). In his newest action-packed film, 'Flash Point," Yen plays a renegade cop chasing down a trio of drug-dealing brothers, and the film is sure to be packed full of high-intensity Hong Kong style fights and stunts (view the trailer).

Donnie has branched out into film production, fight scene choreography, and even directing. Though he doesn't seem to be terribly obsessed with gadgets, Yen took time from his busy schedule to answer the Switched Questionnaire.


What gadgets do you always bring with you to the set for down-time?

I don't have any gadgets. I don't even play video games.


What cell phone do you have right now and what do you love/hate about it?

Being a Hong Kong resident, we switch almost every seven months.I'm currently using the iPhone.


Who's the last person you sent a text message to and what was it about?

"Happy New Year" to everyone


Where do you go pretty much every time you get online?

My fansite; where I can check out all the news about me. Then I usually have a look at Apple Daily.


What annoys you most about your iPod, cell phone, or laptop?

Push advertisements.


Name one thing you wish your iPod/cellphone/laptop could do that it doesn't do now?

I don't know, ever-lasting battery?


What upcoming gadget can you not wait to get your hands on?

I have an iPhone but I'm waiting for the MacBook Air.


You're stranded on a desert island: What gadget do you bring?

I wouldn't bring any gadgets!


What's the most-played song or artist on your iPod?

BeeGees!


BlackBerry, Sidekick, or Treo?

Neither. I gave up my BlackBerry plan, I can't stand it because I can't use it in China. And, I don't like the way it looks.


What's the longest time you've ever spent playing a video game in one sitting and what game was it?

I don't recall the last time I played video games.


Mac or PC?

I've been using macs for many, many years. I just think it's convenient and cool!


Related Links:

NBA Vet Jalen Rose Is Wired, In a Wireless Kind of Way (Interview)



Jalen Rose, current ESPN/ABC analyst and distinguished former NBA veteran, is famous for many things.
Rose first gained nationwide exposure with his hardwood exploits at the University of Michigan in the early '90s. Starting at point guard for the Wolverines, Rose was the outspoken leader of the "Fab 5. He went on to play 13 seasons in the NBA, helping lead the Indiana Pacers to the NBA Finals.

Rose has given more than $1,000,000, to various charities through the Jalen Rose Foundation. He is also the CEO and Founder of Three Tier Entertainment, an L.A. based production company which is bringing the romantic comedy 'Mary & Joseph- The Greatest Love Story Ever' 16 City stage play to various theaters across the country.

The play is a hypothetical account of what happened after Mary informed those close to her of her Immaculate Conception. Joseph takes it hard. Mary's mother Anne takes it harder. 'Mary & Joseph' is directed and co-written by Ed Weinberger, creator of 'Taxi' and 'The Cosby Show,' and is a faith-based, comedic retelling of the biblical characters involved with the situations surrounding Immaculate Conception.

Since Mr. Rose is obviously constantly traveling and inevitably busy, we took a moment to ask him how he keeps connected during those long days and nights on the road. Turns out he's incredibly wired, in a wireless kind of way. Read on to find out more.


What gadgets do you always bring with you to the set?

BlackbBerry 8800,
iPhone, HP Laptop with Verizon high-speed wireless card


What cell phone do you have right now and what do you love/hate about it?

I have the Blackberry 8800, I love the fact that it allows me to do business on the go, I hate the fact that it's battery life isn't longer.


Who's the last person you sent a text message to and what was it about?


Sent a text message to my mother to tell her I love her.


Where do you go pretty much every time you get
online?


I check out a few sites all the time. jalenrose.com, jalenTV.com, tglset.com, allhiphop.com, sohh.com, cnn.com, digg.com,espn.com just to name a few. These give me a pretty good all around view of my favorites


What annoys you most about your iPod, cell phone, or laptop (or any other gadget)?

Signals are always the worst. If it isn't finding a good area for cell phone reception. It's finding a good area for wireless reception.


Name one thing you wish your iPod/cellphone/laptop could do that it doesn't do now?

I wish my BlackBerry allowed me to watch youtube!


What upcoming gadget can you not wait to get your hands on?

I'm looking forward to the BlackBerry 9000, apparently it's going to be a touch screen/keypad hybrid, with 3G, video camera, and browsing capabilities.


You're stranded on a desert island: What gadget do you bring? (Give
reason why.)


My laptop. I can watch TV using my slingbox, surf the web, and even call
friends!


What's the most-played song or artist on your iPod?


Jay-Z, 'American Gangster,' Track 9


BlackBerry, Sidekick, or Treo?


Blackberry. It has pretty much left sidekick and treo in the dust.


Are you getting an iPhone-if so, why?

I own an iPhone, It's a great leisure tool, but it will never replace the
BlackBerry.


What's the longest time you've ever spent playing a video game in
one sitting and what game was it?

Probably spent an entire day playing 'Madden' on the PS2.


Mac or PC?


I love the look of the Mac, but I only own PCs. I'm tempted to get that
new Macbook Air though.



Related Links:



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