Say what you will about what we're reading into this device, but the Biopod automated tripod (concept) crawls around about 7.5cm off of the ground and can't stick to walls. Now unless you're really, really into ant and shoe photography, this little guy will be used to grab shots of one thing and one thing only. It's not my masculinity, but designs like this that keep me so sub-waist sweaty through the day, afraid to wear a skirt despite their superior breathability. Thanks designer Morteza Faghihi. Thanks a lot. [coroflot via Yanko Design]

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As well as tweaking its Gorillapod flexible gripping tripod design in the Gogo model, to support all sorts of gadgets, Joby's now applied some real beefing-up techniques to its original camera-tripod version and created the Gorillapod Focus, designed for heavier camera gear. Made from aluminium so it weighs just 499 grams itself, it can nonetheless support pro-video or SLR equipment that weighs up to 5 kg, and of course fasten it/dangle it from all sorts of places you wouldn't normally mount your cameras. The Focus is due soon for a similarly beefed-up price of $US150. [GeekyGadgets]

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The GorillaPod has been the flexible tripod of choice for camera fans for a while now, but what about your everyday gadgets? What about wanting to watch your iPod on a plane without having to hold it in your hands? What about securing your mobile phone to the steering wheel of your car? What about sticking that speaker in an inconvenient location?

Enter the GorillaPod Go Go. It does exactly the same thing as previous versions of the tripod, but for your other gadgets. And, it costs just $39.95, which is a bargain for something so lightweight, portable and flexible. It'll even work with digital cameras, so you don't have to worry about taking both this and your old GorillaPod with you when you travel.

[Maxwell]

Joby's taken it's mighty camera-supporting flexible tripod the Gorillapod and tweaked it to support more than just cameras and lenses. The new Go-Go has interchangeable adapters at its tip, meaning it's good for nearly all your portable gear. There's still the standard camera tripod mount, but now it also comes with a suction cup to attach to the back of flat shiny gizmos and a stickypad for gadgets you don't mind gluing to the back of. Brilliant stuff: now I can manacle my iPhone to the edge of the bed so I can watch movies from my pillow. Available now for US$35 US$30 with free shipping. [Product page via Wired]

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Sheridan College in Ontario was locked down last Friday because it was suspected a gunman was on the premises. Thankfully, it was a false alarm, but how do you mistake a gunman? Apparently, all it took was a lone photographer, some camouflage cargo pants and his free-standing tripod.

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According to the manufacturer's website, the Manfrotto 797 Modo Pocket Camera Mount is billed as "the worlds smallest tripod," which is a bit disconcerting seeing how it only has two legs. Nonetheless, it appears to be a cool little device. The hinged design allows you to adjust camera angles, and it is small enough to be attached to a keychain. Unfortunately, if you want to get your hands on one, it appears that living in France is where it is at. On the plus side, Manfrotto does list the device on their website, so it may be possible to track it down in the US. [Product Page and Manfrotto via Technabob]

The high cost and bulkiness of tripods have traditionally relegated them to the domain of professionals, but every snapper can appreciate a gadget that eliminates camera shake and allow them to take a wide-angled shot of themselves.

Aussie company Timetale has come up with a nifty and ultra-portable contraption for the snap-happy mere mortal. The plastic FOZI Tripod folds flat into the size of a credit card and snaps into shape to support your camera at four different angles. It's compatible with centre and offset lense cameras as well as mobile phones, leaving you free to do the all-important pose. Best of all, the Fozi will only set you back $5.95. Available in six colours. [Timetale]

When the original QuickPod was released late last year for point-and-shoot cameras, it seemed a little quirky. Now that a new version for digital SLRs has been announced, it still seems a little quirky, but I can't deny that it would prove useful for taking self-portraits. It can also be used as a standard monopod as well as a tool to take pictures when your view is obstructed.

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Ever wonder how tripods are made? Enjoy seeing large robots cut, bend and flatten tubes of metal as they careen down an assembly line? Kick back and watch as we take you on a guided tour of the Manfrotto Tripod factory in Bassano del Grappa, Italy. It's a four-minute segment, so if you have to use the restroom, go ahead and do it now. – Curtis Walker Disclosure: Freelancer Curtis Walker's tour was part of a junket paid for by Manfrotto. Gizmodo staff members are disgusted by the very notion of paid trips from companies; But frankly, the video was entertaining. This is in no way a paid advertisement for Manfrotto.