Part comically stern, part unintentionally hilarious, some of the warning labels cautioning against the potential hazards of gadget misuse offer as much amusement as utility. In this feature we present some of the better ones we've found on our devices and around the internetz. Have a great gadget warning label of your own? Post up a link in the comments and we'll append the best to this article.
Cowon iAudio X5
This cartoony collection of warnings from PMP maker Cowon stars the adorable iAudio X5 in animated form.
Our personal favorite is the dime-a-dozen "Chilly Willy" warning:
Eee PC 1000
Electronics manufacturers across the board are very concerned that device owners are aware that electricity and water don't mix. You may be very attached to your Eee PC 1000, but please don't shower with it:
Another common warning reminds us that plastic bags do not make good face masks. In this version, Asus wants you to know that your crazy bobblehead babies are just not welcome here:
Microsoft Zune
Another standard reminder found in many manuals is "read the manual." Circularity aside, this box label on the Microsoft Zune is notable for inadvertently suggesting one ought to consider reading the Apple iPod manual instead:
[Via NotCot]
Sony A/V receiver
Another winner along the "water and electricty don't mix" theme:
This same Sony A/V receiver cautions us not to invite it in for polite conversation:
Amadana appliances
Awesome cautionary infographics accompanying household appliances, courtesy of Japanese company Amadana and via Boing Boing:
Text labels
- On the Sony PSP: "Do not use the system while driving or riding a bicycle." Transportational multitasking not recommended.
- On the Nintendo DS: "To reduce the likelihood of a seizure when playing video games: Sit or stand as far from the screen as possible." Interesting advice for a handheld...
- In a manual for an SGI computer: "Do not dangle the mouse by its cable or throw the mouse at co-workers." [Thanks Rachael!]
- random TV manual: "Do not pour liquids into your television set." You know, just in case you were contemplating it. [Thanks Rachael!]
- On a video game console: "Do not attempt to stick head inside deck, which may result in injury". We know it's hard to control the urge.
Other
The video is low quality and these aren't all gadget-related, but we couldn't resist including it:
More funny labels and signs
For those of you in the house who are likewise addicted to the unintentionally funny, don't miss the amazing Stick Figures in Peril group at Flickr. There are also a few other collections floating about:
- More funny product warnings, not necessarily all gadgety
- More funny warning labels
- Revenge of even more funny warning labels
Sony PS3 Slim image gallery
Comments (5)
Add a comment Inappropriate or promotional comments may be removed.
Mat Bitner (4:49 PM on Thu Nov 13, 2008)
Great stuff!!!
Judith Meskill
(3:15 PM on Thu Nov 13, 2008)
hahah, i have a few to add too!
Brian Alvey
(3:29 PM on Thu Nov 13, 2008)
My favorite things about the video at the end were the peanuts warning, the "remove infant before folding stroller" warning and the fact that they were playing the Maple Leaf Rag. I'll never get it out of my head again, but I'm okay with that.
Dave
(3:34 PM on Thu Nov 13, 2008)
That was great. One of the best O posts yet.
Shaun (6:56 AM on Wed Oct 14, 2009)
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