Sony and Universal have teamed up to produce series of "instant entertainment" vending machines in the UK. POP machines hit the country this holiday season. Unlike other kiosks that sell media players, this one sells the content as well. You will be able to download straight to a memory card, flash drive, PMP or other USB-supporting portable device. The machine will also let you purchase video games and media content on DVD and Blu-ray. Sony and Universal have not released word as to whether or not they plan on bringing the service anywhere else. Consider the UK a trial run.

Dutch company Springtime has created a sort of vending machine for bicycles, as part of Holland’s public transportation system. Pay the US equivalent of $3.71, and out pops a bike obviously designed to fit a vending machine (but whose ergonomics don’t look too horrible) that you can use for 20 hours. When you’re done, just take it to the nearest vending machine and return it. Some people would love this, but I’ll still drive around for hours looking for a parking space, because I just can’t do without my car. Hey–I live in Los Angeles, that’s just the kind of people we are.