TechBytes: Sony's 3-D Cameras

July 9, 2010— -- Sony is bringing 3-D to its point-and-shoot cameras. Sony has unveiled two new Cyber-shot models that feature a 3-D panorama mode. The system works by capturing a rapid-fire burst of pictures as you sweep the camera around. The software does the rest, turning it into 3-D. But you won't be able to see the effect on the viewfinder, you'll need a 3-D TV or computer. The cameras will be released in September.

One of the issues that may prevent electric cars from catching on is the amount of time it takes to charge them. But a Japanese company claims it has solved that problem. The company says it has developed a charger that needs just three minutes for a 50 percent charge, and five minutes to get up to 70 percent. That's about the same amount of time it takes to fill up a car with gas. The company expects its charger to be in gas stations all over Japan by next March.

Microsoft has been rolling out a new version of its Hotmail e-mail service to some users. The overhauled program has new features that help you address spam and clutter, and give you tools to better manage your inbox. USA Today's Ed Baig says Microsoft has really cleaned up its act. "I used to have nothing but spam in my Hotmail inbox. Now, through the efforts Microsoft's making, largely behind the scenes, most of it, not all of it, has disappeared," Baig said. "It's worth giving it a second look. The new Hotmail is relevant, it's modern, and it stacks up nicely against its competitors Yahoo and Gmail." You can read Ed's full review on USAToday.com.

Residents of Pennsylvania can now get Chianti and cabernet the same way they get a Coke - from a vending machine. The state recently introduced the country's first wine kiosks. Customers choose a wine on a touch-screen display, swipe their ID, blow into an alcohol sensor and then get their wine. The whole process takes about 20 seconds.