Now, not only can you get an iPhone and be all cool and impressive, but you can also customize it with laser etches based on a new technology from Etchstar. Launched in December in a beta form, Etchstar’s moved into a must-have underground art tool and fulfilling the need among today’s DIY expectations to personalize. Etchstar uses a laser technician software program that captures one’s artwork and measures the dimensions of the artwork, format files, or image, then puts it into a patented laser machine and etches the design like a tattoo into the selected surface such as an iPod, iPhone, computer, Sidekick, cell phone, or even metallic business cards.

Pricing depends on the complexity of the artwork and size of the surface, ranging from $25 for personalized designs on a cell phone, to $105-$120 for a masterpiece on the back of a laptop computer. So basically, instead of giving Dell, Apple, or Microsoft all the props when working on your computer, doing a presentation, and DJing at a club, you can flip up your computer and flash your own company logo or artwork instead.

Etchstar, we predict, is sure to catch on like air on fire once it hits Japan. In a country with a youth culture noted for personalizing cell phones with crystals, charms, and beads, a personalized etch is simply going to be the next evolution.

Etchstar was created by Ben Katz who saw the need for a way to create a customized electronic device and patented the service quickly. Now moving towards exclusive licensing deals, laser designs from notable bands and brands may make unadorned technology devices a thing of the past.

In addition, the Etchstar program makes metallic business cards. When I first got one, the industrial strength design and card had the physical weight and sheer bling of making an impression. However be forewarned: It can also make reciprocating with your own flimsy printed cardstock version a rather intimidating experience.