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May 31, 2007 12:01 PM PDT

Cell phones dangles aren't cute anymore

by Kent German

Gross, or just creative accessorizing?

(Credit: Strapya-world.com)

Leave it to the Japanese to make the world's most bizarre cell phone dangle. On Strapya-world.com, a Japanese Web site bursting at the seams with ridiculous cell phone accessories, the number three best-selling cell phone dangle at the moment resembles a tiny, golden version of something found you'd find in your toilet (yes, you heard me correctly). Please use the above link carefully as it contains some language that wouldn't go over well with your kindergarten teacher.

Though the Web site proudly proclaims that "unko" (as the Japanese call it) also means "a lucky kid," I can't help but think the whole thing is terribly wrong. But I guess I'm that one that's wrong as apparently over two million of the little things have been sold (cue Beavis and Butt-Head snicker). The unko is available in a variety of colors, some of which have little happy faces. Prices range from just $1.98 to up to $18 for a dangle that comes with a red cushion and a fortune (again, you heard me correctly). And don't fret, shutterbugs and gamers, as the unko also works with cameras and Nintendo Wii remotes.

Kent German is a senior editor for cell phone reviews at CNET. When he's not testing the newest handsets on the market, he's blogging about cell phone news for Crave. In his On Call column, he answers reader questions and gives his take on the rapidly changing mobile industry. E-mail Kent.
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It's Related to the Culture
by Prestigiousb03 June 1, 2007 1:38 AM PDT
I am currently an exchange student in Japan and while somethings seem odd at first, once you know the cultural meaning they make sense. I read in a Japanese newspaper that the poo is related to their health. They want to be healthy and a perfect poo (in a spiral shape) represents that. So the charm would be worn more as a good luck charm or one to keep you healthy.
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Typical American Chauvism
by jin29 June 1, 2007 4:23 PM PDT
What can I say if the title already says it? I have no problem with American pride and culture, but this kind of attitude from CNET? It's unacceptable.

Also, those poop ornaments have been popular for many years are, icons of youth culture in Korea, Japan, etc. It's not a new fad nor is it necessarially Japanese.
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say whaaaa?
by techgal21 June 3, 2007 12:41 PM PDT
OK. Kent, somebody, tell me.... is there really poop inside this dangle??
It doesn't look like poop. It reminds me of the top of my Carvel soft ice-cream cone or an artistic interpretation of a breast.
But poop? Really?
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No poop inside
by anisemurphy June 4, 2007 2:44 PM PDT
There is no poop inside. It's just supposed to be shaped like poop. Imagine the shape of dog poo or a cow pie. Human ones don't look all that different (you'll find out if you go poo in the woods while camping or hiking).

I agree that in Japanese culture, poop has a lot to do with health. A doctor is almost as likely to order a fecal sample as well as a urine sample when you go for a physical. In elementary school, it's sometimes required to bring a sample for the yearly health exam.
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