Your Technology Sep. 7, 1998

A WALKIE-TALKIE/CELL PHONE

Two-way radios aren't just for police officers and truck drivers. At least that's what Motorola is banking on with its new Iden i1000 ($300; available from Nextel), a compact cell phone that doubles as a two-way radio and pager. The radio function works within a 150-mile range and is best for quick communication with co-workers or family members with the same phone. Pricier cell-phone calls can connect you anywhere.

THE REAL TITANIC ADVENTURE

You've already seen Titanic the movie, so there's no need to rent the video. But for a taste of real underwater history, you might try the new CD-ROM Titanic: Challenge of Discovery ($30; Panasonic Interactive Media). The game, developed with Robert Ballard, who discovered the sunken ship 13 years ago this week, takes you on a virtual search mission complete with submarines, sonar systems, ocean rovers and the myriad challenges of the open sea. All aboard.

THE NEW SCENT MACHINES

The air can sometimes get pretty thick over the perfume counter. Now a German company, Aerome, has developed a computerized multimedia kiosk that stores as many as 100 popular scents from the likes of Calvin Klein and Chanel and then releases them--discreetly--through a small opening while an infomercial plays onscreen. The kiosks will be in stores in Germany, England and France this week, with a U.S. debut at Bloomingdale's and Macy's next month.

--By Anita Hamilton