Airless Tires of the Future

MOBILE, Ala. - A new tire is being developed, with the military in mind. It's smoother, quieter, and doesn't even need air!

By early next year,  Polaris plans to put the airless tire into production. Instead of air, the tire features a tread band wrapped around a polymer web that gives it shape, support and cushioning.

The company says the tire can withstand a shot from a .50 caliber bullet or a  rail spike puncture, and keep going for over 1,000 miles. No word yet on a price.

You may soon see electronic devices the size of a little box at your favorite coffee café. It's an electronic reader that lets you use your credit card to leave a tip.

Starbucks is testing a device that lets you tip from your smart phone. The idea is that people tip when when paying with a credit card.

An alligator named Mister Stubbs has a new tail and is making history. His tail was bitten off eight years ago, but thanks to some innovative researchers with big hearts, this alligator is learning to use a prosthetic. This is pretty advanced technology in the alligator-world.

The makers used a molding of a tail from another alligator cadaver to make one for Mister Stubbs. The orange floatie is an aid for Mister Stubbs until he gets used to his new tail.

They say it could take another six months before Mister Stubbs fully adjusts.

That's your Daily Tech.

*** Don't forget, free movie passes for The Call, starring Halle Berry, will be given out today from noon - 2pm at the FoneZone at 3766 Airport Blvd. (next to Jason's Deli across from Cheddar's).