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I Love Apple’s Fancy New Wireless Charger, I Just Wish I Could Recommend It

The MagSafe Duo is Apple’s fancy new 2-in-1 wireless charger that has a foldable design and can simultaneously charge any model of iPhone 12 and an Apple Watch. We don’t know the exact release date for MagSafe Duo (just that it will arrive by the holidays), but Apple has given us a price. It will cost $129, which isn’t exactly cheap.

I’ve been using a review version of the MagSafe Duo ahead of its release for the last week or so, and it’s incredible but it’s so price that it’s very hard to recommend.

I’ve used a lot of wireless chargers, and they tend to be pretty boring. But the MagSafe Duo makes its case with a few quality-of-life features that are aimed at Apple die-hards in particular. It’s integrated with Apple’s new MagSafe charging system that allows it to charge any of the new iPhone 12 models faster than any other non-MagSafe wireless charger you can buy. It’s also one of the few wireless chargers that works with MagSafe and can charge your Apple Watch as well. No doubt more manufacturers will release other options as time passes (Belkin is already on the case), but right now it does make the MagSafe Duo fairly unique.

It’s watch charging half is particularly nice because it can flip up so you can charge your Apple Watch in Nightstand mode, meaning the Apple Watch displays the date and time while still charging at night.

Tucker Bowe

Last but not least there’s the compact design. The MagSafe Duo folds up into roughly the size of a bifold wallet. The two sides fold and magnetically stick together, creating a small form factor that can easily be slipped it into your pocket or backpack. You can also fold it in half and still charge your iPhone 12 if you want, too. The design makes the MagSafe Duo a uniquely nice travel charger.

It’s not perfect, though. The design sometimes feels a bit flimsy. Whenever I had to pick my iPhone 12 off of it, for example, the whole MagSafe Duo lifts up too, meaning that grabbing your phone is a two-handed exercise of prying the two devices apart. It’s not a deal breaker, but it doesn’t make the MagSafe Duo feel like it should be permanently placed on your nightstand.

But the biggest problem is its sky-high price, in combination with the fact that despite its high cost, it doesn’t even come with a wall adapter. It’s ostensibly part of Apple’s to reduce waste, but when it the product at issue is an extremely expensive charger it just feels ridiculous.

To get the MagSafe Duo working to its full potential, Apple recommends pairing it with a 20-watt power USB-C adapter that supports Power Delivery (PD), like this one that Apple sells for $19, which means the MagSafe Duo really costs $148 instead of $129. It’s a price that’s actually pretty difficult to justify given the fact that you can buy Apple’s MagSafe charger ($39), an Apple Watch charger ($29) and a two companion wall adapters ($19/ea) for $106. You’re essentially paying an extra $42 for the unique design and one less charging cable to worry about.

Despite my several little gripes withe MagSafe Duo and its pretty aggressive price tag, I actually really like it. If price isn’t an issue and you just want the best wireless charger for your iPhone 12 and Apple Watch that Apple has to offer — go ham and get the MagSafe Duo when it comes out. But if there’s doubt in your mind, you’ll be better off with a more affordable option.

Price: $129

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November 11, 2020 / Comments Off

303

The Best Smart Home Cameras to Buy in 2020

Smart cameras are running home security companies like ADT out of business. Brinks’ home security division went bust a couple of years ago, and it all stands to reason — home security cameras are to subscription-based security systems what HBO GO is to cable. Plus, there’s no need to shell out a lot for something that you only use one percent of the time. The new generation of smart cameras are perfect for a modern smart home. The only question left is: which one is right for your home?

Nest Cam IQ (Indoor and Outdoor)

Courtesy

These are the upgraded versions of the Nest Cam Indoor and Outdoor. The biggest difference is that the two IQ cameras have a 4K image sensor, which enables a feature called “Supersight,” which allows the cameras to identify familiar and unfamiliar faces, as well as zoom in and track those subjects while they’re in the frame. The IQ cameras will also send you real-time alerts when it detects motion (should you enable it). The catch is that in order to get these premium features, you’ll need to have a Nest Aware subscription.

Compatible with: works with Alexa and Google Assistant
Subscription: $5+ per month for extended cloud storage and intelligent alerts
Wired or portable: wired
Storage: 3 hours of free cloud storage; Nest Aware subscription gets you up to 30 days of cloud storage

Price: $299 (Indoor); $399 (Outdoor)

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Arlo Ultra 2

Courtesy

Arlo’s home security cameras are unique for two main reasons. First, they’re battery-powered, meaning you can place them anywhere around your house. And two, every Arlo’s camera system requires you to have a SmartHub, which allows you to control all the cameras through the Arlo app. This separate hub also gives you to locally store video files, as opposed to the cloud. The Ultra 2 is the best line of security cameras. They shoot the best quality video, 4K with HDR, with the widest field of view. The Ultra 2 is really for who wants the best completely wireless security system, which works with Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple HomeKit, and they’re not afraid to invest in a multi-camera system. (You can always purchase additional add-on cameras later down the road.)

Compatible with: works with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple HomeKit
Subscription: Yes, with the purchase you get a one-year free subscription to Arlo Smart
Wired or portable: battery powered
Storage: 7-days cloud storage free; up to 30 days with subscription; interal storage via microSD

Price: $300+

BUY NOW<a class="body-link" data-vars-ga-call-to-action="BUY NOW: ~~$399~~ $329 (Google)” data-vars-ga-outbound-link=”https://store.google.com/us/product/nest_cam_iq_outdoor?hl=en-US” href=”https://store.google.com/us/product/nest_cam_iq_outdoor?hl=en-US” rel=”nofollow” target=”_blank”/>

Wyze Cam V3

Courtesy

The Wyze Cam V3 is essentially a more rugged (IP65) version of its predecessor, the Wyze Cam V2, and it’s still the cheapest smart security you can buy. But despite its super-low price and admittedly cheap design, it actually packs most of the same features as other indoor security cameras. It shoots 1080p video, supports two-way talk, and it will automatically record video clips (up to 12 seconds) if it detects motion or hears a loud sound. You can also access a live feed any time you want by opening the Wyze app. The kicker is that it comes free with 14 days of cloud storage, without any subscription, which is huge.

Compatible with: Alexa and Google Assistant
Subscription: $1.49 per camera for 14-day cloud storage.
Wired or portable: wired
Storage: 128MB, microSD card (sold separately)

Price: $20

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The Most Important Features To Look For

Most of today’s home security cameras have a lot in common. Motion sensors, night vision, two-way talk and a companion app that allows you to, at any time, get a live feed of what’s happening in front of the camera are all standard baseline features. When it comes to differences, there are four main things to consider:

• Compatibility: If you already own smart home devices, you’ll want a home security camera that plays well with them. An Alexa-only camera is likely a bad fit for your Google-based smart home no matter how cheap or capable is.

• Price: When it comes to the basics, affordable options like the Wyze Cam v3 will have you covered with features like 24/7 live feed, two-way talk, night vision, motion alerts. More expensive cameras can offer better app experiences or advanced (but niche) functionality. Generally, a cheaper camera will work just fine, especially to start.

• Subscription: Many smart home security cameras require a monthly or annual subscription fee to get its more advanced features like facial recognition, person alerts, the ability to share clips and to access recordings stored in the cloud. You likely won’t need a subscription like this to see what’s going on live, but factor in the cost if you require more than that.

• Wired or Battery: Some security cameras are battery-powered, giving you more freedom in where they are placed, at the cost of having to remember to charge them. Depending on your situation, the tradeoff might be worth it.

Here’s the rundown of our favorite families of home security cameras, and the models available to suit various needs . Remember, just because a camera is expensive doesn’t necessarily make it immediately better. A lot of the more expensive options are only worth buying if you know you’ll use it a lot and you’re willing to pay a reoccurring subscription fee.

Wyze Cam Pan

The Wyze Cam Pan is essentially an upgraded version of the Wyze Cam. It has all the same abilities but it “pans,” hence the name. If you open the Wyze app, you can actually control what the camera is looking at. You can tilt it left or right, up or down. Unlike the cheaper Wyze Cam, the Wyze Cam Pan offers motion tracking; if motion is detected in a specific area of its field of view, the camera will use its Zoom capabilities to track the subject. A downside is that the Pan doesn’t have a magnetic base or stand.

Compatible with: Alexa and Google Assistant
Subscription: $1.49 per camera per month for 14-day cloud storage.
Wired or portable: wired
Storage: 128MB, microSD card (sold separately)

Price: $30

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Nest Cam (Indoor and Outdoor)

The Nest Cam comes in two different models, one for indoors and one for outdoors, and both are the most entry-level security cameras that the company makes. The two cameras have pretty much the exact same abilities – same field of view, video resolution, night vision, alerts and storage – but there are some differences. The Indoor camera has better zoom abilities (8x versus 4x optical zoom), while the Outdoor camera is weather-resistant and comes with a much longer cord (25 feet vs 10 feet). Overall, these are the most entry-level security cameras in the Nest lineup.

Price: $130 (Indoor); $199 (Outdoor)

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Blink Mini

Released in April 2020, the Blink Mini is the company’s newest, smallest and most affordable smart home camera. It’s a camera that only works with Alexa, and therefore is really optimized for homes that already use Alexa as a voice assistant, as well as an Amazon Fire TV, Fire Tablet, Echo Show or Echo Spot (with any of these devices you can ask Alexa to show you a live feed from a specific Blink Mini).

Compatible with: works with Alexa
Subscription: $3/month (or $30/year) for 60 days of rolling video storage for a single camera. $10/month (or $100/year) for unlimited cameras
Wired or portable: wired
Storage: subscription or external local storage module

Price: $35

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Ring Indoor Cam

The Indoor Cam is a smaller and cheaper version of Ring’s Stick Up Cam (below), and it has most of the same abilities as every other entry-level security camera on the market. The difference is that, if you already own Ring’s video doorbell or security system, any of Ring’s cameras will work seamlessly with that existing ecosystem. They’ll also work well with Alexa smart ecosystem. The Indoor Cam is a solid smart camera for anybody building a smart home around Amazon Alexa and people who already have a Ring smart home device.

Compatible with: works with Amazon Alexa
Subscription? Yes, Ring offers two different cloud storage subscription options, a Protect Basic ($3/month) and Protect Plus ($10/month)
Wired or portable: wired
Storage: no free cloud storage

Price: $60

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Ring Stick Up Cam

The Stick Up Cam comes in three different models – wired (Plug-In), battery-powered (Battery) or solar-powered (Solar) – and it’s also essentially a larger (and slightly better) version of Ring’s Indoor Cam. All three models shoot 1080p video, and have two-way talk and night vision. The battery-powered models come with a rechargeable battery pack and, since they’re portable, you can stick them (or use included wall mounts) to place them anywhere in your home that has Wi-Fi. A big difference from the Indoor Cam is that the Stick Up Cam are designed for indoor and outdoor use, which is why they’re more expensive. If you just want an entry-level indoor security camera, the Ring Indoor Cam probably makes more sense. However, if you want a more versatile camera that you can place essentially anywhere (so long as it’s connected to Wi-Fi), that’s where the Stick Up Cam comes in. It works best within an Alexa smart home.

Compatible with: works with Amazon Alexa
Subscription: Yes, Ring offers two different cloud storage subscription options, a Protect Basic ($3/month) and Protect Plus ($10/month)
Wired or portable: wired, battery-powered or solar powered
Storage: no free cloud storage

Price: $100 (Plug-In); $100 (Battery)

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Arlo Pro 4

The Arlo Pro 4 delivers many of the abilities of Arlo’s high-end Ultra line, but just at a much more accessible price point. There are tradeoffs with the Pro 3, however. It captures 2K video instead of 4K, and doesn’t have quite the same field of view. And you only get a 3-month free trial of Arlo Smart, the company’s cloud-storage service, instead of an entire year. The big difference from its predecessor, the Arlo Pro 3, is that the Arlo Pro 4 has built-in Wi-Fi so you don’t need a SmartHub (but you might want it for extra storage). If you’re thinking about an Arlo system, the reality is that a Pro 4 system will more sense for most people. It’s significantly cheaper and the video quality, even though it’s not at the same 4K level, is still very good.

Compatible with: works with Amazon Alexa and Apple HomeKit
Subscription: Yes, with the purchase you get a 3-month free subscription to Arlo Smart
Wired or portable: battery powered
Storage: 7-days cloud storage free; up to 30 days with subscription; internal storage via microSD

Price: $179+

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eufyCam 2

The eufyCam 2 is the company’s newest system of battery-powered smart cameras. Released in early 2020, the eufyCam 2 system needs a smart home hub, called the HomeBase 2, to work. The two defining features of the eufyCam 2 system are, one, its battery life – each camera can last 360 days between charges – and, two, the fact that you don’t need to pay extra for premium features, such as facial recognition and object detection. As far as video storage, videos can be stored in the cloud or locally, which is a great option for those with privacy concerns. Each camera has an IP67 rating, so they’re for indoor or outdoor use. The eufyCam 2 is a solid option for people who want a relatively affordable system of battery-powered cameras. It also works with HomeKit, as well as Alexa and Google Assistant, which is a rarity among smart home cameras.

Compatible with: works with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple HomeKit
Subscription: Yes, the Basic plan costs $3/month (or $30/year) per camera and grants you 30 days of rolling video storage. The Premier plan costs $10/month and covers up to ten cameras.
Wired or portable: battery powered
Storage: cloud and local

Price: $299

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Logitech Circle 2

Logitech’s Circle 2 is a weatherproof security camera (IP65) that can set up indoors or outdoors; its base can work as a traditional stand or be swapped out for a wall/window mount. The Circle 2 is really notable because it’s one of the few smart security cameras that works with Apple’s HomeKit (it also supports Alexa and Google Assistant). It should be noted that Logitech makes the Circle 2 in wired and wire-free models, but HomeKit only works with the wired model. Logitech offers two different subscription plans; if you don’t pay for a subscription, you can only access video recordings for the last 24 hours.The Circle 2 was released in June 2018 and is often on sale. It’s a good camera for people looking for an affordable option that works with Apple HomeKit.

Compatible with: works with Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant
Subscription? Yes, Circle Safe gives you the option of paying for cloud storage for video recordings from either 14 or 31 days.
Wired or portable: wired (and battery)
Storage: cloud

Price: $180+

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November 11, 2020 / Comments Off

469

Considering the New MacBooks? Their Biggest Benefit Might Be Moot

Apple just announced its new line of MacBooks sporting the company’s own M1 microchips, sister silicon to what you’ll find inside iPads and iPhones. It’s a big shift, and one of the biggest immediate advantages is an in efficiency, which should lead to better battery life. The question is, do you need that right now?

Apple’s move to in-house silicon has undoubtedly been in the works for years and years, only just reaching its culmination during the COVID-19 pandemic by unavoidable happenstance. But the result is that the company’s new suite of laptops boast a flagship feature that is not particularly relevant for plenty of people at the moment. Raw performance, meanwhile, is historically not the strongest suit of this family of microchip design. Yes, the M1 MacBook Air is rated for 15 hours of web browsing on a charge, but if you’re spending most of your time at home, what use is that?

That’s not the only reason to wait. While the pandemic will abate eventually, but it’s still a good reason to consider holding off on the new hardware if you can afford it. The first run of any new technology is bound to be a little janky, and other companies’ attempts to build laptops based on the same tablet-derived architecture Apple is using have illustrated how difficult the transition can be. Apple may well have better luck, but it’s still a point of friction.

Apple’s new MacBooks are available for preorder today, and the certainly pack a lot of promise. But this time, more than ever, it’s wise to wait for reviews at the very least.

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November 10, 2020 / Comments Off

314

Everything Announced At Apple’s Big Mac Event

At today’s big hardware event, Apple announced the first three Mac computers made with Apple’s new ARM-based silicone processor, which it’s calling the M1 chip. There’s a new MacBook Air, a new Mac Mini and new 13-inch MacBook Pro. All three are available for preorder today and will ship next week. Here’s what else you need to know.

Introducing Apple’s M1 Chip

Apple

Earlier this summer, Apple announced that it would be releasing its first Mac computers with its own ARM-based silicone chipsets by the end of this year — and now they’re officially here. There are a number of key advantages with its M1 processor that that Apple is promising, including efficiency gains and better battery life. And, it’s supposedly able to make this new breed of Macs run way quieter. The new MacBook Air, for instance, doesn’t even have a fan.

The real proof is in the pudding, though. If you’re interesting in these new laptops, it’s a good idea to wait for the reviews to hit before you pull the trigger.

The MacBook Air with M1

Apple

According to Apple, the new MacBook Air is significantly more power efficient than previous models, with a rated battery life of 15 hours of web browsing compared to the previous Air’s 11 hours. It also has no internal fans, which should make it completely silent.

The MacBook Air starts at $999.

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The Mac Mini with M1

Apple

The new Mac Mini looks very similar to the one that Apple has been selling for the last two years. It has two USB-C ports and two USB-A ports, along with a headphone jack and an ethernet port. Apple claims that it’s able to support two external monitors or Apple’s fancy (and huge) Pro Display XDR. You can purchase it with 8GB of memory and 256GB of SSD or 8GB of memory with a 512GB SSD. The more hearty configuration costs an extra $200.

The Mac Mini starts at $699.

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The MacBook Pro with M1

Apple

The new 13-inch MacBook Pro also has performance enhancements over the previous 13-inch Pro. Apple claims the new model boasts battery life to give you 17 hours of web browsing (versus the 10 hours of its predecessor) — Apple claims that it’s the longest-lasting battery that its ever put in a laptop. The new Pro still has a built-in fan, so it won’t be as quiet as the new Air.

The MacBook Pro starts at $1,299.

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November 10, 2020 / Comments Off

387

How to Play PlayStation Games on Your Laptop

Alex PantlingGetty Images

Welcome to Product Support, a column devoted to helping you get the most out of the gadgets and software you already use.

Here’s the conundrum: You want to play PlayStation but somebody else is using the TV. You’re not going to kick them off the TV because that’s not polite. And it’s not super practical to move the console to another TV (if you even have that option). Fortunately, Sony’s consoles have a feature called PS Remote Play that allows you to play PlayStation games on your Mac or PC. No TV required.

The catch is that the PS Remote Play feature works by streaming games from your PS4 console to another device, meaning you have to have a PS4 and it will have to be turned on and nearby — you can’t remotely play games from a different house, state or country, for example. And the closer you are to your console, the less lag and connectivity issues you’re going to experience.

PlayStation 4 owners are are seeing a PS5 Remote Play app appear on their consoles, which means you’ll be able to use the Remote Play feature to stream PS5 games to your Mac or PC, too, as well as to a PlayStation 4 console.

In order to take advantage of the PS Remote Play, you’ll have to do two things. First, enable the PS Remote Play feature on your PlayStation 4. And secondly, you’ll have to download the PS Remote Play app on the laptop or desktop you want to play games on.

Set Up ‘PS Remote Play’ on Your PlayStation Console

• Turn on your PS4 and go into Settings.

• Select “Remote Play Connection Settings“

• Make sure the the box labeled “Enable Remote Play” is checked.

Set Up ‘PS Remote Play’ on Your Mac or PC

• Go to Sony’s website to download the Remote Play onto the device you want to use.

• Select the operating system, Mac or PC.

• Follow the on-screen instructions to install.

• Launch Remote Play while your PlayStation console is on (or in rest mode).

LEARN MORE

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November 10, 2020 / Comments Off

439

KGB Spy Gear Auction

Julien’s Auctions has been responsible for the sale of everything from Kurt Cobain’s sweater and Eddie Van Halen’s guitars, to Hugh Hefner’s collection of jackets and pipes and Evel Knievel’s Triumph motorcycle. Next year, they’re…

The Best Apartment-Friendly Smart Home Devices

August

There’s a lot more red tape with you’re smartening up an apartment that you don’t own. You usually can’t damage the apartment or do heavy installation unless you want to end up in hot water with the landlord. Fortunately, there are smart home devices that are small and relatively portable so that you can set them up in your new apartment (or house!) when you eventually move out.

We’ve rounded up our favorite apartment-ready smart devices, from smart speakers to smart door bells, smart lights to smart locks. Each is small, wireless and easily DIY installable. Before purchasing, just make sure it’ll work with your existing smart ecosystem, whether that be Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant or Apple HomeKit

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Nest Audio

Nest Google

$99.99

The Nest Audio is Google’s newest smart speaker that’s integrated with Google Assistant. It’s designed with a front-firing driver and sounds significantly better than previous Google Home speakers. For the best sound quality, buy two and pair them in a stereo pair.

Works with: Google Assistant

HomePod mini

Apple apple.com

$99.00

The HomePod mini is the smallest smart speaker that Apple has ever made and it works intimately with your iPhone — just like the HomePod. The cool thing is that you can buy two, set them as a stereo pair and use them as desktop speakers (if you have a Mac) or TV speakers (if you have an Apple TV). Apple allows you to set your default music streaming service as Apple Music or Pandora.

Works with: Apple HomeKit

All-new Echo (4th Gen)

Amazon amazon.com

$99.99

Amazon completely redesigned the Echo this year, giving it a spherical shape and a front-firing driver. At $100, it’s a no-brainer buy for anybody in Amazon’s smart ecosystem. For the best sound quality, buy two and pair them in a stereo pair.

Works with: Amazon Alexa

Google Nest Protect

Nest bestbuy.com

$119.99

Google’s smart smoke and carbon monoxide detector is great addition to any apartment. It comes in a battery-powered version so there’s no hardwiring at all. The nice thing is that it’ll run automatic tests and then will send updates and warnings to your smartphone via push notifications.

Works with: Google Assistant

Ring Peephole Cam

Ring ring.com

$129.99

The Ring Peephole Cam was specifically designed for apartment dwellers and renters. It delivers all of the functionality of Ring’s video doorbells without needing a doorbell. And it fits right over your door’s peephole, so there’s no need to dissemble your door or break out the toolbox.

Works with: Google Assistant

August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (Newest Model 4th Gen)

August Home amazon.com

$219.19

The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is our pick for the best smart lock of 2020. There’s barely any installation as it simply attaches to the existing deadbolt on your door. It also has Wi-Fi baked right into it so there’s no separate hub or bridge required.

Works with: Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple HomeKit

Philips Hue White and Color Ambiance Starter Pack

Philips Hue amazon.com

$89.99

Philips Hue is the biggest and most respected name in smart lights. They work with all the major smart home ecosystems and are incredibly customizable, allowing you to adjust and dim basically a zillion different shades and colors. You’ll want to also have the Philips Hue Bridge ($59) for the best reliability.

Works with: Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple HomeKit

Wemo WiFi Smart Plug

belkin belkin.com

$19.99

The Wemo WiFi Smart Plug is essentially a smaller version of the Wemo mini. It still has a physical on/off button, which allows you to turn the plug on or off if you don’t want to use voice control or open the smartphone app. The big difference is this smart plug is small enough to fit into any electrical outlet without obstructing other sockets.

Works with: Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple HomeKit

Philips Hue Wireless Dimmer Switch

Philips bhphotovideo.com

$24.99

If you already have Philip Hue smart lights in your house, you’ll love this simple dimmer switch. It’s a battery-powered remote that can be wall mounted or just used as a traditional remote control, and it can control up to 10 smart lights. There’s no installation at all.

Works with: Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple HomeKit

Wyze Cam v3

Wyze wyze.com

$19.99

The Wyze Cam v3 is a new-and-improved version of the company’s hugely popular Wyze Cam v2. The updated smart home camera maintains the $20 price tag that made it so appealing in the first place, but adds a weather resistant design and better night vision thanks to a new color sensor.

Works with: Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant

The Best Turntable and Speaker Combos That Make Vinyl Easy

While true that traditional turntable setups have a lot of moving parts, that’s the nature of the beast — if not vinyl’s main allure. There’s also an easy workaround. These days, a bunch of turntables and speaker systems come with integrated components (like a phono preamplifier or amplifier) and they make listening to vinyl as hassle-free.

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November 10, 2020 / Comments Off

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Stay Stress Free, Even If You Drop Your Phone

Let’s be honest. These days, we’ve got a lot on our minds to worry about. But one aspect that should feel completely stress-free and reliable are our devices — especially if you’ve gotten your hands on the latest iPhone. Survivor recently launched the Endurance collection — all new cases for the iPhone 12 Series that are built to tackle life’s challenges. The cases are designed with an anytime and anywhere mentality and are a combination of smart design and modern technologies — giving them an integrity that very few cases can match. The Survivor Endurance fits comfortably and firmly in your hand, featuring grip-enhancing tech. And if you happen to drop your beloved phone, you can rest easy knowing that the case will protect it from heights up to fourteen feet. It may sound like the case would be bulky or hefty, but the Endurance cases feature a slim silhouette. So if you’re looking for a case that prepares you for anything, check out the Survivor Endurance — now available at Verizon.

Buy Now: $40

November 10, 2020 / Comments Off

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Have Philips Hue Lights? Beware This Upcoming Change

If you use Philips Hue smart lights and you have them integrated with some of Google’s smart home devices, such as the Nest Thermostat, Nest Cam and Nest Protect, you’re about to hit a bit of a snag. As of November 17, they’re going to stop being compatible with each other.

But don’t worry — it’s only temporary.

As first reported by The Ambient, Philips Hue recently published a blog post explaining the situation. Because Google is transitioning from its ‘Works with Nest’ program to its ‘Works with Hey Google’ program, it’s forcing third-party smart home devices to make the switch too. Therefore, all Philips Hue’s smart lights will stop working with the aforementioned Nest smart home devices.

But for consumers who have been integrated Philips Hue smart lights and Nest smart home devices in the same ecosystem, there’s a fortunately a pretty easy fix. All you’ll have to do is link your Philips Hue account to the Google Home app and then everything should work pretty much the same way as Google builds all the old Works with Nest features into the Google Home App.

Learn More

November 9, 2020 / Comments Off

372

The iPhone 12 Mini Is As Terrific As It Is Tiny

The iPhone 12 mini is small. Like really small. I’m been using it for the last week and every time I pick it I’m surprised just how light and tiny it feels in my hand. And, to be honest, that’s the main thing you need to know. If you’re looking for tiny iPhone with a great display and an excellent camera — this is it.

The iPhone 12 mini’s 5.4-inch display may sound kind of big in the abstract. The new iPhone SE has 4.7-inch display, after all. But with the iPhone 12 mini, there’s no Home button or extra large bezels. It’s all screen (save for the notch). The mini is actually smaller despite having the bigger screen.

after years of using bigger smartphones, I just love how the mini feels cute and different

The mini has many other features that will give anybody with an older iPhone cause to upgrade, of course. The iPhone 12 mini has an OLED display, helping it deliver brighter colors and better contrast. It has Apple’s newest A14 Bionic processor, so it feels really snappy. It’s got a great camera that’s capable for capturing Portrait and Night mode photos. It, along the rest of the iPhone 12 lineup, is the first smartphone able to shoot 4K video with Dolby Vision, so videos just look that much more cinematic. It supports 5G, making it pretty future-proof. And the mini is compatible with Apple’s slick-new ecosystem of MagSafe chargers and accessories.

Tucker Bowe

Tucker Bowe

Tucker Bowe

Tucker Bowe

The iPhone 12 mini does have a smaller battery than the iPhone 12, which is understandably a concern. A big bright screen and a small battery doesn’t seem like a recipe for a long-lasting smartphone. On top of that, the iPhone 12 mini doesn’t boast the same rate of wireless charging via MagSafe that its compatriots do. But in the few days I’ve had the iPhone 12 mini, I haven’t really had any issue with its battery life. It’s not amazing, but I don’t think the normal-sized iPhone 12’s battery life is really something to write home about either.

But beside the battery and charging differences, the only reason to really not love the iPhone 12 mini is if you’re somebody who wants a big screen. But for me, the size is the thing to love most about the mini. I love the fact that it can fit slip into the back pocket of my running shorts no problem. And, after years of using and testing bigger smartphones, I just love the fact that the 12 mini feels cute, cool and different.

The mini is still fairly expensive at $699, which is $100 less expensive than the iPhone 12 and $300 more expensive than the iPhone SE. And you’ll probably want to buy the 128GB option (instead of the base 64GB), which adds another $50. And if you’re buying an unlocked version, Apple adds another $30 to the final price. But if you’re looking for the ultimate tiny iPhone, the mini is absolutely it.

Price: $699+

SHOP NOW

Today’s Top Deals

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Le Creuset 3.5 qt. Cast Iron Round Sauteuse

Wayfair

$121 OFF (40%)

Deals on Le Creuset items in basic colors are rare. Keep in mind that a sauteuse pan is lower and wider than a traditional dutch oven, which makes it better at simmering and searing.

READ OUR DUTCH OVEN GUIDE

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Patagonia Nano Puff Insulated Jacket

Backcountry

$60 OFF (30%)

Patagonia’s Nano Puff Jacket is one of its best — it’s light, packable and perhaps the most versatile layer one can own. While only two colors are on sale currently at Backcountry (Supply Green and Mango), the Nano Puff at 30 percent off is usually a deal to scoop up.

READ OUR DOWN JACKETS GUIDE

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Hypervolt Vibration Massage Device

Bloomingdale’s

$20 OFF (20%)

This is one of the best recovery message devices on the market. While the Theragun has the better overall design and usability, the Hypervolt is your best choice from a budget standpoint (and we like that it’s quieter).

READ OUR HYPERVOLT VS. THERAGUN REVIEW

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Western Rise AT Slim Pant

Western Rise

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November 9, 2020 / Comments Off on The iPhone 12 Mini Is As Terrific As It Is Tiny
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The eClassic Racing simulator from TCCT delivers a vintage racing experience

Video games cater to various genres and each has its own following. While gaming offers a platform for people to enjoy a digital escape from reality, others prefer to stick with simulations instead. Third-party accessory manufacturers are happy to oblige with a wide range of peripherals that enhances gameplay. Fans of flight simulators have their flight sticks, while gearheads can grab The Classic Car Trust (TCCT) eClassic Racing simulator. Unlike modern gaming steering wheels, it promises an old-school experience.

It was not long ago when we introduced a full-motion system from Cranfield Simulation. What makes it different though is its cost and the type of vehicles it virtually replicates. On the other hand, the eClassic Racing simulator might appeal to folks who prefer something more traditional. TCCT is also working with a Swiss developer for the software that delivers a nostalgic vibe for discerning gamers.

What makes these rigs extra special is the input from Zagato and Pininfarina for its construction. From an aesthetic standpoint, the manufacturer aims to recreate the single-seat race cars of old. To be specific, the ones from the 1930s to the 1940s. As such, we can spot vintage elements such as wooden steering wheels, leather bucket seats, and a manual gear shifter with a design that matches the period.

Even the body is a striking tribute to how they were building Italian racing automobiles back in the day. While the presentation is undeniably retro, the hardware and technology that ships along with it are cutting-edge. The action is displayed on a trip-screen setup to make it more immersive. The eClassic Racing simulator also sits on a hydraulic base, which provides the necessary motion and haptic feedback.

Preorder yours: here

Images courtesy of TCCT

November 8, 2020 / Comments Off on The eClassic Racing simulator from TCCT delivers a vintage racing experience
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438

The RoboGeek 23T from dser is a versatile and capable cleaning machine

Over the years, tech industry analysts have observed a remarkable surge in the adoption of smart technology. People are keeping up with modern advancements to make living even more convenient. With reliable and speedy wireless internet connectivity found on almost any home, it was only a matter of time before traditional appliances and electronics integrate smart technology into their systems. As such, we can now enjoy more time for leisure as cutting-edge tech such as the one on the RoboGeek 23T take care of the cleaning.

The introduction of robot vacuums made old-school housework a thing of the past with a few exceptions. Now, we only need to wait until engineers build a machine that can handle all types of cleaning; from the floor up to the ceiling. It might just be pipe dreams for now, but who knows what the future will bring, right? With a platform such as the RoboGeek 24T from dser, we’re excited to see what comes next.

Although the brand might not be on the tip of anyone’s tongue who are in the market for innovative household electronics, we believe it deserves more praise. Aside from its lineup of autonomous vacuum cleaners, dser also has a portable movie projector for your entertainment needs. The brand’s product catalog still has room to grow as it gradually caters to the needs of consumers. We had the opportunity to try out the RoboGeek 23T and so far, we love what it can do.

What’s inside the box?

Let’s start off by looking at what is included in the package when your order arrives. Despite the sleek and slim design of the RoboGeek 23T, the box was bigger than what we expected. Nevertheless, everything within is secured properly, which reduces the likelihood of damage from shipping.

Aside from the robot vacuum cleaner, you’ll find everything needed to quickly get it up and running. We recommend fully charging the unit first before deploying it on its first journey around your home. Here’s a breakdown of what you can find within the box.

RoboGeek 23T

4 Side Brushes

Rolling Brush

2 Magnetic Boundary Strips

Charging Dock

100V-220V Power Adapter

Filter

Cleaning Tool

Remote Control with Batteries

Documentation

Virtually Quiet Operation

We want to point this out before anything else. If the only vacuum cleaners you have used so far are the regular ones, the RoboGeek 23T will shock you, but in a good way. You probably know what we are talking about here. Just as we were expecting the loud roar of the motor and the suction, there was essentially none of that. You won’t be jolted the moment it executes its program to leave your floor spotless.

After using a robot vacuum like this one from dser, you’re no longer considering going back. The noise output is virtually negligible. While the RoboGeek 23T does its thing, you don’t have to worry about it waking people up. Trust us, save your kids and pets from the terror of hearing the ear-splitting roar of a conventional vacuum cleaner in action.

RoboGeek 23T Features

Cleaning Capabilities

One of the performance metrics people look for when shopping for an automated option is suction power. This is understandable given we want the machine to suck up almost any type of debris from our floors. As such, dser equips the RoboGeek 23T with a robust system that generates up to 2200Pa.

It will get the job done on most types of surfaces such as wood, tiles, carpets, and other types of flooring. The sensors on board even automatically adjust the suction when it detects carpets or mats to dislodge stubborn particles caught between the fibers. Moreover, the sensors also keep it from falling off edges when cleaning near stairs or other elevated areas.

Versatile Control and Connectivity

Aside from the autonomous adaptability of robot vacuums, it’s also important to have some measure of control over its functions. Therefore, you can manually set what you want the RoboGeek 23T to do in several ways. One is to use the supplied remote which features a large digital LCD display.

Another alternative would be to download the companion app and use your iOS or Android smartphone. Finally, its Wi-Fi connectivity allows owners to command it via Alexa or Google Assistant. We’re unsure if dser will eventually add support for Apple’s Siri though.

Battery, Charging, Maintenance

The RoboGeek 23T is powered by a rechargeable 2,600 mAh lithium-ion battery. When it’s fully juiced up, it is capable of 100 minutes of runtime before navigates its way back to the charging dock. Based on our tests, it needs ample clearance to properly position itself into the receptacle. It takes anywhere between 4-5 hours for a full charge.

After a while, the 0.6-liter dustbin is going to get full. While it’s not exactly an issue, we hope dser reworks the dust compartment in later models to make it easier to access. To clean the filter, just take it out and wash it over running water. Next, are the magnetic boundary strips which keep your little buddy here out of areas that are off-limits.

If anything eventually does give out and your unit is beyond the warranty period, dser offers a selection of replacement parts. We suggest grabbing the RoboGeek Replacement Kit bundle as it has all the necessary items save for the battery which is sold separately.

Conclusion

To wrap it all off, we found the RoboGeek 23T as a capable low-cost platform for folks in the market for their first robot vacuum. It’s also great for households with pets that shed a lot of hair. We would suggest that you use it in areas in your home where dust, dirt, and other debris tend to pile up. If it’s a regular routine for you to sweep or vacuum your floors, having an automated machine do it for you will require some adjustments on your part.

It is difficult to find fault with a the RoboGeek 23T which already provides great value for the price. On the other hand, if some people really nitpick about the finer details, they’ll probably talk about the lack of real-time mapping. However, one should understand that this feature comes at a huge cost. Overall, it is a great gadget for busy folk who need some cleaning assistance.

Purchase it now: here

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November 7, 2020 / Comments Off on The RoboGeek 23T from dser is a versatile and capable cleaning machine
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446

5 Wireless Earbuds to Buy If You Don’t Want AirPods

Apple is the runaway leader in the battle for the wireless earbud throne. Its AirPods are the most popular wireless earbuds on the planet (and have been for some time), and its AirPods Pro are one of the best noise-canceling wireless earbuds, too. Still, that doesn’t change the fact that AirPods and AirPods Pro aren’t for everybody. They don’t fit a lot of people’s ears, and if you own an Android smartphone, well, AirPods probably don’t make sense for you.

Fortunately for those looking for an alternative set of wireless earbuds, there are plenty of good options out there. They’re not all great (check out our knockoff AirPod review, here) but some of them are downright impressive. These are five of our favorites.

Jaybird Vista

Jaybird

For Runners: The Vistas are tiny wireless earbuds, but don’t be fooled – they’re super tough. Jaybird designed them for some of the most extreme athletes in the world: ultra runners, mountaineers, cyclists, extreme skiers and all-around adventurers. They’re fully waterproof and sweatproof, and their charging case is slim and lightweight enough to carry on your person at all times.

Price: ~~$180~~ $150

BUY NOW

Cambridge Audio Melomania 1

Budget Pick: Sure, you can find cheaper wireless earbuds than the Melomania 1, which are Cambridge Audio’s first-ever pair of wireless earbuds, but we can guarantee they won’t sound as good. With almost twice the battery life of Apple AirPods, and a price of just $130, these are arguably the best bargain in all of wireless earbuds.

Price: $90

BUY NOW

Bose QuietComfort Earbuds

Bose

Noise Cancellation: Released in late 2020, the Bose QuietComfort are the best and most powerful noise-canceling wireless earbuds you can buy. They work similarly to the Bose Headphones 700, allowing you to quickly switch between 11 levels of noise-cancellation (and a full transparency mode). They’re expensive, for sure, but if you’re looking for the best noise-canceling wireless earbuds — these are why you want.

Price: $280

BUY NOW

Jabra Elite 75t

Affordable Noise Cancellation: Jabra has made some of the best wireless earbuds for years and surprisingly, the Jabra Elite 75t aren’t the company’s newest models (that belongs to the Elite 85t). But they’s cheaper and still are some of our favorite wireless earbuds. They have excellent built-in microphones for call clarity. They sound great. And they have a sweat-resistant design. Plus, Jabra just rolled out a software update that gives them active noise-cancellation.

Price: $180

BUY NOW

Master & Dynamic MW07 Go

The New Look: The original MW07 earbuds are still some of our favorite wireless earbuds; they’re beautiful, comfortable and sound fantastic. These new models are very similar in style and design, but they have a couple of big differences – they’re smaller, lighter, more water-resistant (IPX6) and $100 more affordable.

Price: $199

BUY NOW

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November 7, 2020 / Comments Off on 5 Wireless Earbuds to Buy If You Don’t Want AirPods
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310

The Phone Case That Ticks All the Boxes

Nothing quite compares to the excitement of finally getting your hands on a new smartphone. Although companies are offering more device color options every year, the trend to make them with a fragile glass back design is here to stay. But that doesn’t mean that you need to get a bulky, boring case design every year to keep your devices protected. RhinoShield has created slim, highly customizable phone cases that offer extreme impact protection, giving you the best of both worlds. So we took a deeper look at its line and explored how RhinoShield has mastered best-in-class protection.

RhinoShield

1.

All-Round Protection: RhinoShield not only covers your iPhone, but also takes care of all your Apple Devices — including your Apple Watch and AirPods. If you’re an Android user, don’t fret — they have most flagship devices covered as well, including Samsung, Google, OnePlus and more. The cases are sleek, compatible with wireless charging, and best of all, are covered under RhinoShield’s Lifetime Warranty. So not only are you protecting your device from dings, scratches and drops, you’re also protecting your case for life.

2.

The Choice is Yours: With a variety of colors and a vast collection of prints to mix and match, RhinoShield cases are highly customizable. Choose between three types of phone cases: a Mod NX (modular case), SolidSuit (one-piece full cover) or CrashGuard NX (modular bumper). You can even customize the specific case details like the buttons, frame, rim and backplate. Or if splashier cases are more your style, RhinoShield offers hundreds of print options — like NASA, a collection with PewDiePie, Exclusive Aritist Collections and much more. And if you’re on the hunt for a case that’s completely unique to you, you can design a custom case with your own photos and text. The possibilities are endless.

3.

Truly Impactful: RhinoShield created its first product in 2012, with a passion for materials science and a restless pursuit of offering the ultimate device accessories. Today, they are known for their customizable phone accessories that provide extreme impact protection. Pairing their case with a screen protector — like its 3D Impact Screen Protector — will make sure that your device is protected at all times. Get $10 off if you buy any screen protector together with a case of the same device model.

Take 20 percent off until 11/13. But act fast, as the discount drops to 10 percent on 11/14. Simply use the code “GearPatrol” at check out.

SHOP NOW

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November 6, 2020 / Comments Off on The Phone Case That Ticks All the Boxes
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327

Bose QuietComfort Earbuds Set a New Standard for Noise Canceling

Bose took a long time — maybe too long — to release its first pair of wireless earbuds with active noise-cancellation. But the Bose QuietComfort (QC) Earbuds are finally here. And at $280, they are definitely on the more expensive side. They also come at a time when Apple, Sony, Sennheiser and a host of other audio companies have had their own noise-canceling wireless earbuds out in the wild for a while. So why get the Bose QC Earbuds when you can get other noise-canceling wireless earbuds for significantly less? Well, the noise-cancellation of course.

I’ve been testing the Bose QC Earbuds for the past few weeks, and while there are other wireless earbuds with excellent noise-canceling abilities, most notably Apple AirPods and the Sony WF-1000XM3, Bose just simply does it better. The Bose QC Earbuds have the most powerful active noise-canceling abilities of any wireless earbuds that I’ve tested. Better yet, the noise-canceling is very customizable and easy to control.

Tucker Bowe

The Bose QC Earbuds are compatible with the same companion app as the Bose Headphones 700, and the two pretty much have the same noise-canceling features. There are 11 levels of noise-cancellation — 10 being the most powerful and zero being the lowest, which is actually full transparency mode — and you choose three favorite noise-cancel levels as presets; you can then quickly switch between those three presets by double-tapping on the left earbud. Better yet, you can have the noise-cancellation be turned fully-on (at level 10) without any music playing, which is something that a lot of other noise-canceling wireless earbuds don’t natively allow.

The QC Earbuds use similar StayHear silicone eartips that Bose has used with all its previous in-ear headphones, like the Bose QuietComfort 20, and past wireless earbuds, like the Bose SoundSport Free. There are two advantages to this. First, it means that if you’ve used Bose’s earbuds in the past, you know that the new QC Earbuds will fit in your ears, too. And secondly, the design of the StayHear eartips does a good job at passively blocking out ambient sounds. The combination of great active and passive noise-canceling just really makes these the best noise-canceling earbuds out there.

On top of all that, the Bose QC Earbuds are just really good sounding wireless earbuds. Part of this has to do with size of the drivers — they’re big, which is also why the earbuds look so big in your ears — and the fact that the QC Earbuds get louder than most wireless earbuds I’ve tested. Unlike the company’s over-ear Headphones 700, there’s no in-app way of customizing or adjusting EQ settings on the QC Earbuds. But Bose has integrated something it calls Active EQ that boosts low and high frequencies when you’re playing the QC Earbuds at lower volumes. This helps them deliver a great sound dynamic and not just when you’re blasting them.

Tucker Bowe

Another thing that I love about the Bose QC Earbuds is that there’s also very little learning curve with them. You basically use the Bose Music app once to set them up and customize your noise-cancellation presets, but then you really don’t have to use it ever again. There are a few on-earbud controls, but Bose really kept them at a minimum. You can tap the earbuds to play/pause, summon your voice assistant or skip a song, but there’s no on-earbud swiping to adjust volume — you have to do that on your smartphone.

If we’re in the business of nitpicking, there are a few things that I wish Bose did differently with the QC Earbuds. They can only pair via Bluetooth to one device at a time, unlike Apple’s AirPods Pro. Multi-connection is a super convenient feature if you want to watch videos on your laptop and also your smartphone without having to take out your earbuds or opening Bluetooth settings. The charging case is borderline huge and not really conducive to slipping in your pocket. (Although the charging case supports USB-C and wireless charging, which is nice.) And they don’t support Dolby Atmos, which is a big feature (along with spatial audio) that Apple gave its AirPods Pro via the latest iOS 14 update.

And even though they have IPX4 water-resistance rating (same as AirPods Pro), I wouldn’t recommend exercising with them because they’re rather large earbuds; if you’re looking for workout earbuds and want Bose’s signature sound, go for its new Bose Sport Earbuds, which lack active noise-canceling but are smaller, lighter earbuds — and at $180, they’re significantly cheaper too.

Price: $280

SHOP NOW

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November 6, 2020 / Comments Off on Bose QuietComfort Earbuds Set a New Standard for Noise Canceling
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Spotify on the Apple Watch Just Got A Lot Better

If you own an Apple Watch and you’re a Spotify Premium subscriber, you just got an upgrade. Spotify is rolling out an update that lets you stream music directly from the Apple Watch — no need to have your iPhone nearby.

Previously, the Spotify app on your Apple Watch had been incredibly limited, allowing you to play/pause, switch songs and adjust the volume of tracks playing on your iPhone. But without your iPhone nearby and tethered to your Apple Watch, it was basically useless. Thankfully that’s changing.

But before you get too excited there are a couple of catches. In order for you to enjoy Spotify’s new ability, your Apple Watch still has to be connected to Wi-Fi or you have to have a cellular model that’s connected to LTE. If you have a Wi-Fi-only model, for example, you still won’t be able to leave your iPhone behind and stream tracks when you’re not connected to Wi-Fi.

The other caveat is that you need to have an Apple Watch that’s running watchOS 6.0 or later, meaning older Apple Watch models like the Series 2 and Series 1 won’t get this ability. Finally, you need to have the latest updated Spotify app on your Apple Watch.

This is admittedly one small step for Spotify on the Apple Watch. You still can’t download tracks from Spotify directly to the Apple Watch for offline listening, which is something only subscribers to Apple Music can do on the Apple Watch.

Spotify is rolling out this ability to its Apple Watch app now.

Learn More

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November 5, 2020 / Comments Off on Spotify on the Apple Watch Just Got A Lot Better
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Trap or Blessing – The growth of Public Open Wi-Fi

Imagine this: You are a freelancer juggling many projects at the same time. On a Monday morning, you decide to go to the local coffee shop to use the free Wi-Fi for some work that is pending. In today’s fast-evolving cyber-space and the use of Wi-Fi, this is a common scenario that most of us are familiar with.

With coffee shops, hotels, shopping malls, deli’s and all other kinds of establishments offering free internet; it’s something hard to resist. Surely, public Wi-Fi is a huge blessing, since we rely on it to conduct business, browse when we don’t have an internet package of our own and much more.

However, are you aware of some of the grave threats that may be lurking around when you use public Wi-Fi as you sip your latte and communicate with your clients? Cybercriminals often prey on users on the public hotspots in a bid to access banking credentials, passwords and other critical information.

What are the Risks?

The main problem associated with Public Wi-Fi is there are huge risks involved with their usage. Even though most establishments provide this facility to add value to their offerings, low levels of security and the open nature of the connectivity mean you are vulnerable during use.

Here are the three main risks that come with Public Wi-Fi:

Man-in-the-Middle Attacks

Man in the middle attacks comprises one of the most common issues when it comes to Wi-Fi hotspots. Every time a computer makes a connection to the Internet, data is transmitted between a computer and a website, an attacker can come in between and “encrypt” the data.

Unencrypted Networks

Through encryption, any data being transferred between the computer and the wireless router appears in a form that is not discernable or readable. Encryption must be enabled when the Wi-Fi router is set up but there is no way to know for sure when you are using a public hotspot.

Owing to software-related vulnerabilities, attackers have the ability to load malware on your devices without your knowledge, especially when you are using an open public WI-FI.

How to Stay Protected on Public Wi-Fi Networks

Use a Reliable Anti-Virus

Using an anti-virus can protect you from a lot of things; one of the foremost of whom is the transmission of spyware that can leech itself on to your device if you happen to be using a public Wi-Fi network.

Always use HTTPS

Most modern browsers let you know whether your connection is secure or not with an HTTPS encryption by displaying the message, “Secure” or “Not Secure” in the address bar. You must always check for the HTTPS showing in the address bar when browsing on a particular website. Without it, your data may not be encrypted and you could be vulnerable to data theft.

Get an Unlimited Data Plan

Most people find themselves using public Wi-Fi in a bid to save themselves from internet data costs from their network. However, a good option is not to use public Wi-Fi at all.

You can avoid public hotspots by getting an unlimited data plan. Doing so, won’t just eliminate the need for accessing unsecured networks, but allow you to set up your own personal internet hotspot which you can use for all your devices.

Use a VPN

The most effective method for staying safe on public Wi-Fi is to install a VPN on all the devices that you use while on a public network. A VPN for Android encrypts all data passing through the networks through a secure ‘private’ tunnel, thereby making it harder for anyone to see what you are up to, or access your information.

Using a VPN is quite straightforward and once you have downloaded the desirable VPN client, you will need to follow some simple steps to activate it.

Final Thoughts

Employing these measures in conjunction with the widely available tools can go a long way in protecting you from online threats when you use public Wi-Fi. But, you can avoid the use of public Wi-Fi altogether, since it has emerged as a huge risk, given the high number of cybercrime incidents.

November 5, 2020 / Comments Off on Trap or Blessing – The growth of Public Open Wi-Fi
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AirPods Are on Sale For Just $100 Right Now

Looking for AirPod deals? You’re in luck. Amazon is discounting the newest AirPods down to $100. The catch is that these come with a case that doesn’t support wireless charging.

If you want the wireless charging case, Amazon is selling those AirPods for $159. If you don’t care about the wireless charging case, you can score that pair for just $100. It’s a deal that’s available at Walmart too.

Apple AirPods with Charging Case (Wired)

Apple amazon.com

$159.00

$99.00 (38% off)

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The Best Wireless Headphones for Running and Working Out

This definitive guide to wireless headphones for running and working out covers everything you need to know before buying your next pair of sweatproof Bluetooth headphones, with picks for different budgets and activities.

Not all headphones work for running or exercising, even if they are wireless. If you have a pair that isn’t sweatproof, there’s a good chance they’ll die on you. And if they don’t fit your ears, well, they’re probably not going to stay in, either.

Sport headphones add a new dimension to your workout. They’re light, comfortable and designed to stay securely in your ears during high-intensity intervals. So if you often find yourself lifting weights, running on the roads or trails, or doing a total body workout, it’s time to swap out your basic buds for a pair that goes the extra mile.

Editor’s Picks

The Rest of the Pack

The Top 3

Looking for quick recommendations on the best wireless headphones for running and working out? Here are Gear Patrol‘s top three picks of 2020.

Jaybird Vista

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Best Wireless Earbuds for Running

The Jaybird Vistas are rugged wireless earbuds for serious athletes. They have an IPX7 rating, meaning they’re fully waterproof and sweatproof. Their lightweight design makes them feel like they’re not even in your ears, and the carrying case is slimmer than that of the competition. They are compatible with a companion app that allows you to change the EQ settings or borrow the EQ settings that have been used by some of Jaybird’s sponsored athletes.

Price: ~~$180~~ $149

Buy Now

UE Fits

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Best Upgrade Wireless Earbuds for Running

The UE Fits are different from all other wireless earbuds because they give you a completely custom fit. They use what Ultimate Ears calls its Lightform technology where each earbud has built-in LED lights and a big gel-filled eartip. You place the earbuds in your ears, connect them to your smartphone and then you trigger a custom molding process via a companion app. The LED lights heat up the gel and, after 60 seconds, the earbuds are perfectly molded to fit in your ears and cannot be un-molded. The UE Fits don’t have a ton of other features, but if you’re looking for wireless earbuds that will absolutely fit in your ears, this is them.

Price: $249

Buy Now

Anker Soundcore Life P2

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Best Budget Wireless Earbuds for Running

The Soundcore Life P2 are our pick for the best budget wireless earbuds for running. They cost only $50, which is cheap for wireless earbuds in general, but they deliver significantly more. They have a IPX7 water-resistance rating, which is pretty much the best you’re going to get, and they have an excellent battery life. They also charge via USB-C.

Price: $50

Buy Now

The Rest of the Pack

Apple AirPods Pro

These “pro-level” AirPods are the first wireless earbuds that Apple has ever made that are sweat-resistant, which is great news for runners, as well as noise-canceling, which is great everybody else. They have a silicone ear tip so they fit tighter than Apple’s regular AirPods. On the sort-of downside, they have the same battery life as regular AirPods (and even less life when noise-canceling is turned on).

Price: ~~$249~~ $200

BUY NOW

Bose Sport Earbuds

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Released in late 2020, Bose’s new Sport Earbuds are smaller and sleeker versions of the company’s previous SoundSport Free earbuds. Each earbud has up to five hours of battery life, with a charging case that provides up to 10 extra hours. They are available in three different colors: Triple Black, Baltic Blue, and Glacier White.

Price: $180

BUY NOW

Beats Powerbeats Pro

The Powerbeats Pro are similar to the AirPods Pro because they’re both made by Apple and have the same H1 chip that makes it easy to pair with an iPhone. Runners, in particular, will appreciate the large ear hooks that grip and hold the earbuds in place. The nine-hour battery life — with up to 20 extra hours from the carrying case — is unmatched, though said carrying case is huge, making these less than ideal for everyday wear. They’re also more expensive than the competition.

Price: ~~$250~~ $200

BUY NOW

Klipsch T5 II True Wireless Sport

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These are sport-focused versions of Klipsch’s second-generation T5 wireless earbuds. The Klipsch T5 II True Wireless Sport still are some of the best-sound wireless earbuds you can buy, but they’ve been designed with a new ear-piece and come with a number of new eartips and earwings to better fit in your ears. Maybe the most striking feature is their charging case. It’s water-tight and basically drop-proof, but more importantly it’s integrated with little gel beads to soak up moisture; you can place your earbuds right back in the case after your workout and they’ll dry themselves out.

Price: $229

BUY NOW

Master & Dynamic MW07 Go

Master & Dynamic released the original MW07 in 2018 and we called them “the most beautiful wireless earbuds you can buy.” They’re made of acetate and stainless steel are just gorgeous. The 2019-released MW07 Go aren’t quite as “premium,” but they’re also a bit different. They’re made of an ultra-durable TR90 composite material, which makes them water- and sweat-resistant. They’re also 15-percent smaller and lighter than the original MW07, which will help them better stay in your ears while you’re working out.

Price: $199

BUY NOW

Sony WF-SP800N

The Sony WF-SP800N are unique on this list because they are wireless earbuds that are designed for working out, but they also have active noise-cancellation similar to the company’s flagship WF-1000XM3. The Sony WF-SP800N don’t quite have the sound quality or noise-cancelling abilities of the WF-1000XM3, however, because they lack the same QN1e processor. That said, they’re $30 cheaper.

Price: $148

BUY NOW

Jabra Elite Active 75t

These are “active” versions of the Jabra Elite 75t that were released earlier in 2020. What that means is that they’re identical in every way, except they’re more water-resistant, they have a stickier coating so they stay in your ear better, and they’re slightly more expensive. Aside from that, these are some of the best all-around wireless earbuds you buy in 2020.

Price: $199

BUY NOW

Google Pixel Buds

Google’s second-generation Pixel Buds are exactly what Pixel owners have deserved for years: wireless earbuds that work well and easily pair with all Pixel and Android devices (no opening Bluetooth settings required). They have intuitive touch controls and premium features that only Google could deliver, like a conversation mode integrated with Google Translate. Additionally, they have an earwing design and IPX4 water-resistance rating, so they make a great workout partner.

Price: $179

BUY NOW

Beats Flex

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Released in late 2020, the Beats Flex are the next generation of the BeatsX wireless earphones that were first released in 2017 — but they’re significantly cheaper. They also charge via USB-C and have been integrated with Apple’s W1 chip, which helps them fast pair with your iPhone or iPad. However, it’s not Apple’s newer H1 chip that has been integrated into the newest AirPods and AirPods Pro, meaning the Beats Flex do not support hands-free Siri.

Price: $50

BUY NOW

Beats Powerbeats

The Powerbeats are the next generation of the company’s Powerbeats3 Wireless that were released in 2016. The new Powerbeats have been integrated with Apple’s H1 chip for fast pairing with your iPhone, just like AirPods and AirPods Pro, but it also enables them to charge faster and get significantly better battery life. As far as design, fit and sound, the Powerbeats are essentially more affordable, neckbud versions of the truly wireless Powerbeats Pro.

Price: ~~$150~~ $130

BUY NOW

Jaybird Tarah Pro

Released in 2018, these are Jaybird’s highest-end neckbuds and, frankly, some of the best wireless earbuds you can buy. They are completely sweatproof and waterproof, and because they have tremendous battery life — up to 14 hours on a single charge — they’re really designed for ultra runners and endurance athletes. A neat and under-appreciated feature: the two earbuds magnetically stick together so you can wear the Tarah Pro around your neck, as a necklace, when you’re not listening to them.

Price: ~~$160~~ $130

BUY NOW

Anker Soundcore Spirit X

Anker’s Soundcore Spirit Xs are a great pair of no-frills neckbuds. They are extremely sweat- and water-resistant and have an ear hook design, similar to the Powerbeats3 Wireless, so they’ll fit most people’s ears. And for around $40, the sound quality is actually pretty good.

Price: $26

BUY NOW

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The Incipio Duo Case Will Protect Your New iPhone 12 Pro Max and Mini in Style

We could debate essential EDC pieces, but there’s no denying the Apple or Android smartphone is the cornerstone. Whether it’s calls, messages, research, emails or flashlight duty, it’s essential–but it can’t protect itself. That’s where…

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November 5, 2020 / Comments Off on The Incipio Duo Case Will Protect Your New iPhone 12 Pro Max and Mini in Style
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