ZAGG, a global leader in accessories that empower mobile lifestyles is sponsoring an iPhone 15 screen protector giveaway. This giveaway includes ZAGG’s screen protectors for the newest additions to the iPhone product line. Three (3) lucky winners will be chosen to win a ZAGG screen protector for the iPhone 15 of their choice.

About ZAGG’s InvisibleShield Glass XTR3 for iPhone 15

Glass XTR3, made with Hexiom impact technology, is ZAGG’s most technologically advanced screen protector. It provides seamless, edge-to-edge protection with Eyesafe RPF60 technology to filter blue light (435-440 nm). The anti-reflective technology enhances the color depth and vibrancy on your screen. Glass XTR3 also has an anti-dust adhesive and an EZ Apply install tray so you get perfect alignment.

Main Features

• 10X Stronger: Glass XTR3 is made with shock-absorbing Hexiom impact technology that makes it up to 10X stronger than traditional glass screen protection.¹
• Highest Level of Blue Light Filtration: New-to-world Eyesafe RPF60 technology filters blue light (435-440 nm) to improve eye comfort and sleep, and it won’t change the colors on your screen.
• Anti-reflective Technology: This new treatment significantly decreases reflection and increases the light transmitted to improve your screen’s clarity and enrich the color depth and vibrancy of the images on your screen.
• Smooth, Ultra-Touch Sensitive Surface: Glass XTR3 has an SiO2-enhanced coating for maximum touch sensitivity and a super smooth surface.
• Anti-dust Adhesive: Even if a little dust gets on your screen during installation, our new adhesive will install smoothly over most dust.
• Anti-microbial Treatment: Glass XTR3 contains anti-microbial properties that protect the screen protector by inhibiting the growth of odor-causing bacteria and guarding against degradation from microorganisms.²
• Recycled Glass Content: Glass XTR3 is made with up to 30% post-consumer recycled glass.³
• TÜV Rheinland Certified Green Product Mark: Glass XTR3 is made with up to 30% recycled glass, its installation tray is made from 100% recycled content, and its packaging is 100% recyclable.
• FSC Certification: With recyclable packaging made from 100% recycled materials, Glass XTR3 has been certified by FSC, an organization working to protect healthy forests.
• Precise Installation: The EZ Apply® installation process with tray ensures perfect alignment.
• Limited Lifetime Warranty: If your InvisibleShield ever gets worn or damaged, we will replace it for as long as you own your device.

1. Tests conducted by 3rd party independent lab; tested up to 10x stronger than traditional glass screen protection.
2. Contains anti-microbial treatment that protects the screen protector by inhibiting the growth of odor-causing bacteria and guarding against degradation from microorganisms.
3. Recycled material is certified through a third-party mass balance allocation process.

How to Enter

This contest is open to all United States and Canada legal residents. You must be 18 years of age or older to win. There is no purchase necessary to enter. If you wish to enter, simply fill out the form below with your full name and email address. Full contest details can be found below in the Contest Details section.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR INTEREST, BUT THE CONTEST IS CLOSED AT THIS TIME.

Extend the life of your device today with accessories from ZAGG. For more information, visit zagg.com, Facebook, and Twitter.

Contest Details

Five winners will win a bundle of ZAGG accessories for the iPhone 15 including a Screen Protector for the iPhone 15. The winners will be given the choice to choose which screen protector they want for their new iPhone.

Communication Agreement

MacSources is committed to protecting and respecting your privacy, and we’ll only use your personal information to administer your account and to provide the products and services you requested from us. From time to time, we would like to contact you about our products and services, as well as other content that may be of interest to you. You can unsubscribe from these communications at any time. For more information on how to unsubscribe, our privacy practices, and how we are committed to protecting and respecting your privacy, please review our Privacy Policy. By submitting the entry form for this contest, you consent to receive other communications from MacSources.com and to allow Mac Sources to store and process the personal information submitted above.

Official Rules

NO PURCHASE IS NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. ALL FEDERAL, STATE, LOCAL, AND MUNICIPAL LAWS AND REGULATIONS APPLY. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED.

1. Eligibility
Zagg iPhone 15 Giveaway (the “Contest”) is open to legal residents of Canada, the fifty (50) United States, and the District of Columbia who are at least eighteen (18) years old at the time of entry. Employees of ZAGG and other companies associated with the promotion of the Contest, and their respective parents, subsidiaries, affiliates, and advertising and promotion agencies as well as the immediate family (spouse, parents, siblings, and children) and household members of each such employee are not eligible. The Contest is subject to federal, state, and local laws and regulations.

2. Sponsor
The Contest is sponsored by ZAGG, located at 910 West Legacy Center Way, Suite 500, Midvale, Utah 84047.

3. Agreement to Official Rules
Participation in the Contest constitutes the entrant’s full and unconditional agreement to and acceptance of these Official Rules and the decisions of the Sponsor, which are final and binding. Winning a prize is contingent upon being compliant with these Official Rules and fulfilling all other requirements set forth herein.

4 Contest Period
The Contest begins on September 18, 2023, at 12:01 a.m. Central Daylight Time and ends on September 24, 2022, at 11:59 p.m. Central Daylight Time (the “Contest Period”). Entries that are submitted before or after the Contest Period will be disqualified. Submissions will be accepted via the official contest form on this page.

5. How to Enter
Fill out the official contest form on this page. Include your full name (first and last) and valid email address. Limit one (1) entry per person, per email address, and per household for the duration of the Contest Period, regardless of the method of entry. Entries from any person, e-mail address, or household in excess of the stated limitation will be void. All entries become the property of the Sponsor and will not be acknowledged or returned. 

6. Prize Drawing
On or about September 25, 2022, the Sponsor will select potential winners in a random drawing from among all eligible entries received. The odds of being selected depend on the number of entries received. The Sponsor will attempt to notify the potential winner(s) via email. If the potential winner(s) cannot be contacted within five (5) days after the date of the first attempt to contact him/her, the Sponsor may select an alternate potential winner(s) in his/her place at random from the remaining non-winning, eligible entries.

7. Prizes
The prize bundle includes ZAGG accessories for the iPhone 15 including a ZAGG Screen Protector for the iPhone 15. The winner(s) will be allowed to select the specific product they want for their prize package under the Sponsor’s direction.

8. General Conditions
The Sponsor reserves the right in its sole discretion to disqualify any individual it finds to be tampering with the entry process or the operation of the Contest or to be acting in violation of these Official Rules or in an unsportsmanlike or disruptive manner. Any attempt by any person to damage the website or undermine the legitimate operation of the Contest may be a violation of criminal and civil law, and, should such an attempt be made, the Sponsor reserves the right to seek damages (including attorney’s fees) and any other remedies from any such person to the fullest extent permitted by law. Failure by the Sponsor to enforce any provision of these Official Rules shall not constitute a waiver of that provision.

9. Release and Limitations of Liability
By participating in the Contest, entrants agree to release and hold harmless the Sponsor, and each of their respective parents, subsidiaries, affiliates, advertising and promotion agencies, other companies associated with the Contest, and each of their respective officers, directors, employees, shareholders, representatives, and agents (the Released Parties) from and against any claim or cause of action arising out of participation in the Contest or receipt or use of the prize. Entrant further agrees that in any cause of action, the Released Party’s liability will be limited to the cost of entering and participating in the Contest, and in no event shall the Entrant be entitled to receive attorney’s fees. Released Parties are also not responsible for any incorrect or inaccurate information, whether caused by site users, tampering, hacking or by any equipment or programming associated with or utilized in the Contest. Entrant waives the right to claim any damages whatsoever, including, but not, limited to, punitive, consequential, direct, or indirect damages.

10. Disputes
Except where prohibited, each entrant agrees that any and all disputes, claims, and causes of action arising out of, or connected with, the Contest or any prize awarded shall be resolved individually, without resort to any form of class action, and exclusively by the appropriate court located in Utah. All issues and questions concerning the construction, validity, interpretation, and enforceability of these Official Rules, entrants’ rights, and obligations, or the rights and obligations of the Sponsor in connection with the Contest, shall be governed by, in, and construed in accordance with, the laws of Utah, without giving effect to any choice of law or conflict of law rules, which would cause the application of the laws of any jurisdiction other than Utah.

11. Privacy
Information collected from entrants is subject to the sponsor’s privacy policy.

Open Selected PDF Pages

• Enjoy advanced PDF editing thanks to a completely redesigned, and now even more powerful PDF engine.
• Use the simple new PDF import dialog to browse pages in multi-page PDFs and select the one you want to edit.
• Easily set the resolution and size of the PDF page you’re importing.
• Choose to import vector PDFs with shape and image elements as layers, or import them with all layers merged.
• Note that this feature works on macOS 12 and later.

Edit PDF Layers

• Pixelmator Pro now supports vector PDFs, letting you easily edit, rearrange, and delete individual elements, like images and shapes, in PDF documents.
• Open PDFs with images, shapes, paths, masks, and even more complex layer properties like blend modes and opacity.
• Change the size of vector PDFs without losing quality thanks to resolution-independent scaling.
• Create new vector PDFs and export them with all layers intact to share with others or use in other apps. 

Work with Apple PDFs

• Seamlessly open PDF documents created using Safari, Keynote, Pages, and other iWork apps with layers.
• Enjoy incredible precision when importing Apple PDFs. The documents will look exactly how they did in the original app.
• Edit individual vector elements, images, and masks in Apple PDFs using all your favorite Pixelmator Pro tools.

Convert to PDF with Shortcuts

• Convert multiple Pixelmator Pro documents or other files to PDF using the updated Convert Image/Video action in the Shortcuts app.
• Convert files to vector PDFs or choose to merge all layers using the new Preserve layers setting.
• Seamlessly use the Convert Image/Video with native macOS actions like Make PDF or Split PDF into Pages.

About Pixelmator Pro

Pixelmator Pro is an incredibly powerful, beautiful, and easy-to-use image editor designed exclusively for Mac. With over 50 image editing tools, Pixelmator Pro has everything you need to create designs, edit photos, draw illustrations, paint digital paintings, and be creative in just about any way you can imagine. Pixelmator Pro is renowned for its advanced AI features, allowing users to quickly remove backgrounds, increase image resolution, remove color banding, and more, all with just one click. It also offers extended RAW support, letting you seamlessly edit images from over 650 digital cameras, including compressed Fujifilm RAWs and Apple ProRAW, and supports various image and video formats, such as JPEG, MOV, SVG, and PSD.

Thanks to its native integration with Mac, Pixelmator Pro offers blazingly fast performance, integrates seamlessly with macOS Ventura, and is optimized for Mac devices with Apple silicon. Making the most of powerful macOS features including iCloud Drive, Versions, Shortcuts, Light and Dark Modes, and even offering a full-featured Photos extension, Pixelmator Pro is a versatile tool for any creative project.

Pixelmator Pro has won multiple awards, including the Mac App of the Year awarded by Apple, and is one of the best-rated apps on the Mac App Store.

Pricing & Availability

Pixelmator Pro is available exclusively from the Mac App Store for $34.99, 30% off its usual price of $49.99.

Pixelmator Pro requires macOS Big Sur or later. Full system requirements and more information on Pixelmator Pro can be found at www.pixelmator.com/pro/

About the Pixelmator Team

Founded in 2007 by two brothers, Saulius Dailide and Aidas Dailide, the Pixelmator Team develops groundbreaking and innovative image editing apps for Mac and iOS. The team’s apps have been honored with numerous prestigious awards, such as two Mac App of the Year awards, an iPad App of the Year award, two Apple Design Awards, and many others. Pixelmator for iPad was featured at the Apple Special Event in October 2014.

Here are all the juicy Power Tech details:

Magic 180 and Magic 180 Pro

Whether using with your smartphone, earbuds or laptop, each flat style magnetic tip can be switched out with ease and also swivels 180 degrees to help you obtain the best connection possibilities and the optimal angle for your needs, moving with you to prevent fraying and damage.

The cables are designed to enhance your charging capabilities providing a 100W power delivery without any risk of overheating or overcharging. While both cables have a protective neck on both ends and are made of durable braided nylon, the Magic 180 Cable Pro features slightly thicker, stronger silicon material to protect against high-frequent use cases. The Magic 180 Pro also comes with a USB-C to USB-A converter for added versatility.

Pricing and Availability

The 3-foot long Magic 180 Cable and 6-foot Magic 180 Cable Pro are available now for $24.99 and $34.99, respectively, on RayconGlobal.com. An additional 3-pack of Magic Tips can also be purchased for $9.99.

Everyday LED 3-in-1 Cable

For those who want to charge more devices at once, the Everyday LED 3-in-1 Cable simultaneously charges three compatible USB-C, Lightning and Micro USB devices with 100W of battery-safe fast charging – no overheating or overcharging. Adding the fun to functionality, this cable features gradually changing multi-colored LED lights that make charging in the dark effortless. The soft glow of the cable also doubles as a convenient night light.

Magic Pad Pro Wireless Charger

Raycon Global also offers convenient magnetic wireless charging accessories to power up your favorite devices at once. With the new Magic Pad Pro, now you can simultaneously charge your watch, earbuds, cases, phone and more. The modular, foldable design makes it compact enough to fit in your pocket, belt bag or backpack for on-the-go convenience. Unfold for a flat charging surface or bend to charge at an angle. The extra-magnetic pieces create a more stable user experience ensuring your devices are safe and secure at all times. Plus, the green LED light of the charger puts off an ambient glow at night.

Pricing and Availability

The Everyday LED 3-in-1 Cable and Magic Pad Pro are available for $19.99 and $39.99, respectively, on RayconGlobal.com.

These new cables and chargers are the latest to join the Raycon Global family of Everyday Tech products but are certainly not the last.

To learn more about these reliable, accessible and versatile product offerings, including these new mobile accessories, visit RayconGlobal.com, Facebook, or Twitter.

About Raycon

At Raycon, we’re a group of creatives, technologists and operators who design Everyday Tech that people can rely on every day, seamlessly integrating new solutions into the lives of the modern consumer. As a brand with over 2 million customers, most commonly known for our popular earbuds and headphones featured on thousands of tastemakers, we’re eager to expand into new product categories, including mobile accessories and more, with a diverse range of products meticulously engineered to cater to the consumer’s ever-evolving needs.

Don’t miss a single moment of excitement with the SJCAM C300 Action Camera.

The demand for captivating visuals has never been higher for content creators. Whether it’s vlogging, filming extreme sports, or capturing breathtaking landscapes, content creators are constantly on the lookout for innovative tools to enhance their storytelling abilities. This is where action cameras come into play.

With their compact size, durable build, and unparalleled versatility, these little powerhouses have revolutionized the way we capture life’s most thrilling moments. From documenting heart-pounding adventures to creating immersive experiences for viewers worldwide, action cameras offer an unmatched level of creativity and freedom that traditional cameras simply cannot match.

The C300 Action Cameras from SJCAM is a unique device that helps users to capture action moments with ease.

About SJCAM C300 Action Camera

SJCAM is a global, high-tech producer of sports cameras. It has pioneered the high-end sports camera alternative market with an affordable price and excellent performance. The C300 is a handheld action camera that provides 4K video resolution along with a 20MP still images. The camera is equipped with dual battery packs and it’s wearable as well as handheld. The C300 has a built-in 6-axis Gyro stabilizer that helps to smooth out video and a waterproof housing that can withstand the pressure of 30 meters of water. The camera lens has an extra-large aperture to accommodate low-light shooting and it has a 154º wide angle lens.

Main Features

• 4K / 30FPS
• 6-axis gyroscope stabilization
• 30 meters waterproof with case
• Handheld shooting
• 60 seconds pre-record
• 1.33″ Double Touch Screen
• 2.4G/5G dual Wi-Fi
• Remote control
• Digital microphone
• Long range
• Divide appearance design
• Super night vision
• Car mode
• Multiple shooting mode
• Webcam

Specs

Pricing & Availability

The C300 4K Action Camera has a list price of $159 on shop.sjcam.com. It is also available on Amazon.

User Experience

My experience with the C300 was good overall. I found it to be easy to use and because it comes with lots of different attachments, it’s very versatile. I decided to take the camera on a short bike ride to test out its ‘action’ capabilities. The features I was most interested in were the image stabilization and night vision.

Overall, my experience with the C300 camera was fantastic. Not only was it incredibly user-friendly, but its versatility truly impressed me. Thanks to its wide range of attachments, I found that it could easily adapt to various shooting situations.

To put its action capabilities to the test, I decided to take the camera on a short bike ride. I strapped the camera to my handlebar and ventured into my neighborhood. Even though the streets are paved, there are many bumps and breaks along my standard path. Since I was trying to test out how the stabilizer worked, I intentionally targeted several of those areas. Even though the anti-shake features minimized shakiness, it didn’t completely cover bigger disturbances I encountered.

As it happens, I decided to take my ride at night. This allowed me to test out the night vision feature as well. I was curious how the C300 would process the lighting changes I would come across during my ride. While the skies were dark, there were house lights and street lamps that shed light across my path. The camera did a good job processing images going from light to dark. I detected only minimal issues with grainy video and even in the darkest of circumstances I could still make out elements in a scene.

I also appreciated how easy it was to switch between different shooting modes on the camera settings menu and thought the battery life was exceptional. The camera body seems to be durable and I love the design of it because it makes it easy to shoot video handheld as well as mounted to an object. The only design feature I didn’t like was the MicroSD card slot. You have to insert it into a cage-like holder inside the camera. I had an issue with getting the ‘cage’ locked into place. The camera accessed and recorded to the card just fine, but when I opened the camera to remove it, the card flew out and landed on the floor across the room. I would much rather see a card slot on the outside of the camera.

Pros

1. Has lots of compatible accessories.
2. Easy to get started.
3. Good picture quality – even in dark situations.

Cons

1. Stabilization isn’t great for large bumps.
2. MicroSD card doesn’t snap into place securely.

Conclusion

The SJCAM C300 Action Camera is a versatile and reliable choice for capturing your adventures. With its waterproof and durable construction, it can withstand even the most extreme conditions. The high-quality image and video resolution ensure that you capture every detail in stunning clarity.

The user-friendly interface and wide range of features make it easy to navigate and customize your shooting experience. Whether you are an adrenaline junkie or simply want to document your everyday activities, the SJCAM C300 Action Camera is a valuable companion.

For more information, visit sjcam.com, Facebook, and Twitter.

Power up your devices quickly and conveniently with the Anker Nano 30W Power Bank.

There is nothing more frustrating than being on-the-go and discovering that your beloved mobile phone is in ‘the red’ with its battery power. With our ever-increasing pace of our world, millennials and Gen Xers everywhere are triggered by that 10-20% warning our devices give us when we need to recharge. What do you do if you are nowhere near an outlet? For me, I pull out the brand new Anker Nano 30W Power Bank and plug in a Lightning cable to recharge my iPhone 14 Pro or AirPods Pro as those are both necessities for me when I’m out and about. This tiny power bank has quickly become a necessity for me as well.

About Anker Nano 30W Power Bank

As part of the larger press announcement about the new Nano Series product lineup, Anker has released the Nano 30W Power Bank with Built-in USB-C Cable. It’s designed to be a fast, convenient way to charge your mobile devices on the go. With it, an iPhone 14 can be charged 50% within 30 minutes. The compact power bank measures 4.09 × 2.06 × 1.02 inches and can provide uninterrupted power thanks to its reliable, built-in USB-C cable.

Main Features

• Model: A1259
• 30W Fast Charging and Recharging: 60% more power than PD 18W for an efficient charge.
• 30W Fast Recharging: Supports 30W fast charging via the built-in USB-C cable or USB-C port, allowing you to recharge the power bank in just 90 minutes.
• Built-In USB-C Cable: Directly charge your phones and other smart devices without carrying any extra cables for a hassle-free experience.
• 10,000mAh Capacity: This 10,000mAh battery packs enough power to charge a phone at least 2 to 3 times- ideal for a short getaway.
• Intelligent Display: Features a smart TFT color screen and a user-friendly interface that provides a clear and detailed display of your charging information.
• Small and Portable: Measuring just 4.09 × 2.06 × 1.02 inches, this 30W power bank is compact enough to fit in your bag–perfect for travel.
• Smart Temperature Monitoring: Keeps your devices safe and cool by ensuring the temperature stays 10% below international quidelines, with over half a million temperature checks conducted every night.

Pricing & Availability

The Anker Nano 30W Power Bank is available starting today (8/31) with a list price of $49.99. It can be found on Amazon.com and Anker.com.

User Experience

The Anker Nano 30W Power Bank arrived in a plain, Anker-branded blue and white product box. This is fairly standard for Anker products although some of their more recent charging product packaging has had more of a retail flare to them. The back of the box does identify the product inside, but other than that, it’s fairly ambiguous.

Out of the box, the power bank was ready to start charging. It did only have a partial charge of 29% to its internal battery, but with a 10,000 mAh capacity, it could have provided a little more than 2,500 mAh to a device in need. Prior to completing my product testing, I charged the Nano 30W to 100%. I actually used one of the Nano Charging Station’s USB-C ports to provide power to the power bank.

After 30 minutes, the battery gained 34%, which gave it a charging rate of 1.13% per minute. This also put it on track to meet the expectation that the power bank could gain up to 50% of its battery capacity within 45 minutes of charging.

I love the design of this power — especially the hidden display. It’s easy to read and it gives you all the pertinent information you need while charging a device. I did notice that the power bank was warm to the touch after it completed its recharge. My thermal camera detected a high temperature of 105.1º F and a low of 92º F across the top of the power bank. This isn’t a temperature range that raises concern since it’s much lower than 140º F.

For my main charging test, I plugged a Google Pixel 7 Pro into the power bank using the built-in USB-C cable. The phone began charging automatically and identified that it was getting a rapid charge. I charged the phone for 30 minutes — noting its progress every 10 minutes. After the charging session was completed, the phone gained 34% and the charging rate was 1.13% per minute. In my experience, that is a very strong charging rate. The power bank remained cool and didn’t register a temperature over 76º after charging the phone.

Pros

1. Compact
2. Built-in cable designed as a handle.
3. Easy-to-read display.
4. Creative color options.
5. Additional USB-C and USB-A ports for compatibility.
6. Bi-directional built-in cable.
7. Powerful enough to charge 12-inch M1 iPad Pro.

Cons

1. Gets warm after recharging.

Conclusion

The Anker Nano 30W Power Bank is a compact and efficient solution for mobile charging needs. With its fast-charging capabilities, built-in USB-C cable, and intelligent power delivery technology, it provides a convenient and reliable way to keep devices powered up on the go. Its small size makes it perfect for travel or everyday use, while its robust design ensures durability and longevity. Whether you need to charge your phone, tablet, or other USB-C devices, this power bank has got you covered. Invest in the Anker Nano Power Bank today and never worry about running out of battery again.

For more information, visit anker.com, Facebook, and Twitter.

Anker, the world’s #1 mobile charging brand, today introduced the latest Nano series of charging accessories. Anker’s Nano series is known for offering small and stylish PD (power delivery) fast charging solutions for Apple mobile device users. This year’s Nano series feature built-in USB-C cables and connections, allowing users to charge on-the-go without needing to carry a separate cable. Best of all, multiple products in the Nano series were created using eco-friendly post-consumer recycled plastic incorporated in the exterior casing, contributing to about 71% of the entire product* and resulting in up to 80% less carbon emission*.

For years, we have been leading the push for the consumer technology industry to adopt the USB-C charging standard for all mobile devices,” said Steven Yang, CEO of Anker. “In addition to reducing e-waste, USB-C offers a vastly superior charging experience through fast, efficient and versatile connectivity. We are proud to deliver the benefits of USB-C to our consumers through the popular and stylish Nano series.”

Steven Yang, CEO of Anker

The Superiority of USB-C
A trusted leader in the USB-C space, Anker has long touted the performance and eco-

friendly advantages of USB-C, which include:

• USB-C is up to 3x faster than conventional USB-A chargers* with data transfer speeds of up to 40 Gpbs
• USB-C is more versatile, working seamlessly with iOS, Android, Windows and other leading operating systems. This compatibility equates to a more sustainable/less e- waste charging solution by using one cable to charge a wide array of smartphones, tablets, e-readers and other mobile devices.
• USB-C is more powerful, delivering up to 240 watts of power. This charging standard can handle the high-wattage needs of digital cameras, drones, and home appliances.
• Anker USB-C cables are safe and reliable, meeting USB-IF strict certification standards for compliance to protect a user’s device and ensure the fastest charging and data speeds.

*Data based on internal lab testing charging an iPhone 14 from 0 to 50%, compared to a standard 5W charger.

The Anker Nano Series

In addition to the popular Anker Nano 30W charger and the Anker Nano 20W charger, the Nano series is proud to add three new products to the Nano family lineup:

Anker Nano Power Bank (30W, Built-In USB-C Cable)

This lightweight, palm-sized power bank comes equipped with a built-in USB-C cable that streamlines charging for smartphones and smart devices, featuring a 30W output for device charging and a 30W input for recharging itself. With a large 10,000mAh battery pack, this power bank can charge most phones almost two times and an Apple iPad from 0 to almost 60% on a single charge. Users can monitor power levels with the smart display and user- friendly interface, while the smart temperature monitoring ensures device heat during the re- charging process.

Anker Nano Power Bank (22.5W, Built-In USB-C Connector)

This lipstick-sized power bank with 5,000 mAH capacity features a foldable, built-in USB-C port that easily plugs into the base of a variety of smartphones. This device’s ultra-compact design ensures portability and offers a 22.5W output with dual USB-C power delivery fast charging. For added convenience, the power bank can recharge itself at 18W from the same USC-C connector.

Anker Nano Charging Station (6-in-1, 67W)

This charging station’s ultra-thin and ultra-compact design is a workspace-saving and travel essential, featuring a soft extension cord and a flat plug which allows it to easily fit in narrow spaces or behind furniture. An innovative spring system simplifies device plugging for hassle-free operation and enhanced portability. Safety is highlighted with overheating protection and ActiveShield™️ 2.0 technology to minimize heat generation. This charging station is 60% slimmer than traditional power strips, and roughly the size of a smart phone. High-speed charging is also guaranteed with a 67W USB power delivery feature.

Anker is also introducing the Anker USB-C to C Bio-Braided 240W Cable designed to complement every product line within the Anker charging family. Engineered for 240W fast charging, built with 46% bio-braided materials, and E-Marker chips for rapid 240W charging speeds, these cables enable quick charging for devices like the MacBook Air 13, reaching 56% in just 30 minutes. This cable is available in 3, 6, and 10-foot versions.

Specs

Price and Availability

The new Anker Nano series is now available for purchase in a range of colors. Pricing and availability by market are listed below. Most products will be available for purchase starting today on Amazon.com and the page of USB-C Charging lineup.

• Anker Nano Power Bank (30W, built-in USB-C Cable), $49.99: Available for today on both Amazon.com and Anker.com.
• Anker Nano Power Bank (22.5W, built-in USB-C Connector), $29.99: Available for today on both Amazon.com and Anker.com.
• Anker Nano Charger (20W), $13.99: Available today on both Amazon.com and Anker.com.
• Anker Nano Charging Station (6-in-1, 67W), $65.99: Available today on both Amazon.com and Anker.com.
• Anker USB-C to USB-C Cable (3/6/10ft, 240W, Bio-Braided), $18.99: Available today on both Amazon.com and Anker.com.

*Up to 80% post-consumer recycled plastic incorporated in the exterior casing, contributing to about 71% of the entire product.

*Assessment based on internationally recognized standards ISO 14040 / ISO 14044 for evaluating the cradle-to-gate environmental impacts of the product’s manufacturing process. These standards pertain to environmental management and life cycle assessment.

For more information, visit anker.com, Facebook, and Twitter.

About Anker
Anker is the world’s #1 mobile charging brand and a global leader in sustainable power. This includes wall plugs, wireless chargers, power banks, solar panels, and power solutions for the home and outdoors. Anker recently launched its “Re[Charge] the Future” program and has committed to making more sustainable products and reducing its use of plastic. More information about Anker can be found at anker.com.

About Anker Innovations
Anker Innovations is a global leader in charging technology and a developer of unique, consumer electronic products that support premium audio, mobile entertainment, and the emerging smart home space. This innovation is being led by its six key brands: Anker, AnkerWork, eufy, Nebula, soundcore and AnkerMake. More information on Anker Innovations and its various brands can be found at anker.com.

With active noise cancellation, block out crowded train rides and commotion and dive into your music without distraction. For a quick conversation, switch over to Transparency mode and let the outside in. As well as an added microphone, Motif II A.N.C. comes ready for BT LE Audio, so you’ll be better connected than ever before. For a customised listening experience, download the Marshall app. With Motif II A.N.C., you’re always ready for the road.

MARSHALL SIGNATURE SOUND

Don’t leave great music behind. With Motif II A.N.C. you can take Marshall signature sound with you, wherever you go. Experience concert quality sound whenever you need it, with pocket-sized design, comfort and a whole lot of loud.

CANCEL THE NOISE, AMPLIFY THE SOUND

Get locked into the sounds of your choice with improved active noise cancellation and use the app to amplify your playlist, so that you can savour the music that matters to you, uninterrupted.

RELIABLE PLAYTIME

Motif II A.N.C. delivers 10 more hours of playtime than its predecessor. With active noise cancellation and the charge case, get up to 30 hours total, and 6 hours of playtime on their own. Just place your earbuds in the case for an extra boost.

ENHANCED CONNECTIVITY WITH LE AUDIO

Never let anything get in the way of your music with Motif II A.N.C. They’re BT LE Audio-ready to ensure the best possible connection, so you’ll never miss a beat. This future-proof technology delivers higher quality audio, while increasing the streaming range and improving audio sync, for a better connection when watching video.

A MORE SUSTAINABLE APPROACH

Motif II A.N.C. comes with improved battery preservation, while its case and buds are made from 70% post-consumer recycled plastic, including used electronics, water bottles and automotive light covers.

ON THE GO CHARGING

These supercharged headphones deliver 6 hours of wireless playtime. Add the charging case to the mix and you get 30 hours of listening time on the move. Switch to quick charge when you’re in a hurry, for 1- hour extra playtime in 15 minutes.

PRICING & AVAILABILITY

The Marshall Motif II A.N.C. are available for pre- order starting August 29 for $199 USD and are available at MarshallHeadphones.com. The Motif II A.N.C. will ship to consumers starting September 12. For more information, visit the website or follow Marshall Headphones on Instagram.

TECHNICAL INFO 

• DRIVERS: 6 mm, dynamic
• DRIVER SENSITIVITY: 106±2 dB @ 1 mW (0.126Vrms) 1 KHz
• DRIVER IMPEDANCE: 16 Ω
• FREQUENCY RESPONSE: 20 Hz – 20 kHz
• WEIGHT CHARGING CASE: 47.1 g / 1.66 oz
• WEIGHT EARBUD: 4.312 g / 0.15 oz
• TIME TO FULL RECHARGE: 1.5 hours to recharge with USB-C

MANUFACTURER’S SUGGESTED RETAIL PRICE

EU:…………………………………………………………………………..219 EUR

SE:…………………………………………………………………………2495 SEK

US: ………………………………………………………………………… 199 USD

UK:…………………………………………………………………………..199 GBP

CN: ………………………………………………………………………..1599 CNY

For more information, visit Marshall.com, Facebook, and Twitter.

ABOUT MARSHALL

Marshall is a true rock legend. A distinct and expressive sound combined with an iconic stage presence that has inspired music fans around the world for over six decades. This unparalleled amount of wisdom has been distilled and fused into every part of Marshall headphones and speakers. Nothing has been compromised when expanding the Marshall heritage of big stage performance to the individual enjoyment of good music.

The legacy began in a small Hanwell drum shop in the 1960s, where Jim Marshall sought to give a bunch of then-local guitarists the sound they wanted – a sound that was harder, crunchier and more

rich. The result was the JTM45, an amp that reverberated with a sound that was much heavier than anything ever heard before. In a twist of rock and roll fate – those guitarists, much like the Marshall name, would go on to revolutionise music forever.

Plugable, a leading computer accessories company for office, home, and hybrid workspaces, is further expanding its roster into the charging/power category with three exciting new products. Building upon a decade of success delivering user-friendly and accessible docking stations and hubs, Plugable is extending its mission of enhancing productivity to the charging landscape.

The new lineup features a 30W USB-C GaN charger, available in two colors, a 32W wall charger with USB-C, USB-A, and AC power ports, and a USB-C extension cable boasting a built-in 240W power meter.

“After finding success with the recent launch of our 140W USB-C GaN Power Adapter (PS-EPR-140C1), we are very excited to be investing more into the charging category,” said Lynn Smurthwaite-Murphy, CEO of Plugable. “By expanding our range with these innovative charging solutions, we ensure that customers can seamlessly tailor their power setups to suit their needs and preferences. Whether in a remote workspace or in a traditional office, these products empower users to create charging solutions that align with their unique charging needs.”

Smart and Safe Charging to Go

Plugable’s USB-C GaN Charger, available in white (PS-30C1W) and black (PS-30C1B), is a compact but powerful 30W charging block perfect for rapid charging of phones, tablets, and various USB-C peripherals. Designed with safety in mind, these chargers offer over-voltage,

over-current and short-circuit protection. They have undergone rigorous third-party testing and certification for peace of mind while you power up. The walnut-sized wall plug is equipped with flip-up prongs, making it perfect for travel, and is compatible with most USB-C devices.

The PS-30C1W and PS-30C1B are available in both black and white now on Amazon for only $19.95 with a $4 off coupon.

Make the Most of any Outlet

The new 32W USB-C & USB-A Charger with AC Power Outlet (PS1-CA1) can transform a standard wall outlet into a full-featured charging station, adding a 30W USB-C port and a 12W USB-A port while extending access to the standard AC plug. The adapter embodies the future of charging; it supports USB Power Delivery 3.0, delivering up to 30W of power to its USB-C port for fast charging. If used simultaneously, the USB-C Port provides 20W of power, the USB-A port provides 12W of power, and any other power needs can come from the AC outlet access. The adapter doesn’t block any outlet ports and is small enough to slip into a small purse, making it the perfect travel companion for those looking to power multiple devices anywhere, anytime.

The PS1-CA1 is available now on Amazon for only $19.95 with a $4 off coupon. Power and Precision Combined

The new USB Type-C Extension Cable with Power Meter (USBC-METER3-1MF) is a high-performance cable with plug and receptacle connections so you can easily extend your current USB-C cord and monitor charging rate without losing support for advanced USB-C features like DisplayPort Alternate Mode (“Alt Mode”) video. Compatible with USB-C devices, it transfers data up to 10Gbps, delivers up to 240W of power, and even supports Alt Mode video up to 4K @ 60Hz. This quality cable is braided and capped in aluminum to keep it durable and long-lasting.

The standout feature of this cable is its built-in power meter, an innovation that allows users to monitor the power usage or charging flow of devices to optimize performance and prevent cable overload.

The USBC-METER3-1MF is available now on Amazon for only $19.95 with a $4 off coupon.

For more information, visit plugable.com, Facebook, and Twitter.

About Plugable

Headquartered in Redmond, Washington, Plugable Technologies is one of the world’s best-known brands for USB devices. With a focus on better products, better information, and better support, Plugable’s range of universal products are tested to fit any desk environment with guaranteed compatibility. And should you ever have a question, their US-based support team consists of the very engineers who design the devices.

Do you have tired, achy feet after talking walks or being on them all day? Do you crave the soothing touch of a professional foot massage, but find it inconvenient to book appointments or spend money at a spa? This is where a personal Shiatsu Foot Massager comes in handy. I’ve had different types of massagers at home for quite some time, but until now, I hadn’t tried a foot massager. The Comfier Shiatsu Foot Massager with Heat has been a welcome addition to my wellness devices at home.

Product Summary

The Comfier Shiatsu Foot Massager with Heat is an innovative foot massager that combines the ancient art of shiatsu massage with modern technology. It offers a therapeutic and rejuvenating treatment right in the comfort of your own home. With its adjustable intensity levels, soothing heat function, and targeted pressure points, this foot massager is designed to melt away stress and tension while stimulating blood circulation. Say goodbye to sore feet and hello to blissful comfort with the Comfier Shiatsu Foot Massager with Heat.

Main Features

• Dimensions: 17.5″L x 13.6″W x 7.5″H
• Fit feet up to size 13
• 15 & 30 minute timer
• Touch panel controls
• Heat function (up to 131 ºF)
• Kneading and Rolling function
• Three (3) air intensity
• 360º compression massage (low, mid, high)
• Package includes foot massager, home adapter, user manual, and packing box

Pricing & Availability

The Comfier Shiatsu Foot Massager with Heat has a list price of $89.69 from comfier.com. It is also available from Amazon for $71.99 (at the time of publishing this article).

User Experience

For many years, I have suffered with arthritis in my right foot and I’ve found in recent years that my left foot has been exhibiting similar pain symptoms but I’ve not had anything formally diagnosed in that area. Because of these ailments, I’ve been cautious about having too many professional massages. I have tried them in the past, but found them to be far too painful due to the pressure applied in certain areas of my feet. Because of this past experience, I was concerned about using the Comfier Shiatsu Foot Massager.

Fortunately, my fears were assuaged when I first started using the massager. When I was testing it out, I had just completed several days of yard work and my feet were particularly sore. The massager did a good job of helping my feet be relaxed and loosening the tight muscles around my lower extremities. I thought the heat was a nice touch, but I would have liked to see there be even more heat available.

Using the massager was easy. You turn it on and then adjust the settings on the various functions. Then you let the massager do its job. What’s nice about this is you can set it up and then do other things while it works. I had it under my desk so I was able to start the massaging session and continue with my work without any disruptions.

Even though the massager does what it claims in its product description, I do feel there are some areas for improvement. I would have loved to see a remote included for adjustments. The only controls are found on the unit itself. This can be a little awkward for some users. I also would have liked to see an option to turn some options off completely. Sometimes it’s nice to have the air pressure without the rolling massager and vice versa. Finally, I would have really liked to see a protective case included with the package. I found that the ‘packing box’ is listed as part of the ‘package’ with the massager. While this is true, the box is not really suitable for long-term storage. So, an alternative sotrage

Pros

1. Relaxes tired feet.
2. The heat provides added

Cons

1. No remote – all controls are on the control panel on the massager.
2. There is no ‘off’ option for the different features.
3. The ‘packing box’ is not suitable for storage.

Conclusion

The Comfier Shiatsu Foot Massager with Heat did help restore my tired, sore feet back to normal after lots of yardwork, but there are some additional features I would like to see this particular unit have. Despite my personal wishes for this device, I do think it’s a must-have for anyone seeking relief from foot pain and discomfort. Its advanced features, such as the deep kneading shiatsu massage nodes and soothing heat therapy, provide a truly relaxing and therapeutic experience. The adjustable intensity settings allow for customization according to individual preferences and needs. With its sleek design and easy-to-use controls, this foot massager is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing.

For more information, visit comfier.com, Facebook, and Twitter.

Understanding Oil ETFs

What are ETFs?

Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) are investment funds that are traded on stock exchanges, similar to individual stocks. They provide investors with exposure to a diversified portfolio of assets, such as stocks, bonds, commodities, or a specific sector. ETFs are designed to track the performance of an underlying index, making them a convenient and cost-effective way to gain exposure to a particular market segment.

Exploring Oil ETFs

Oil ETFs are specifically designed to track the performance of the oil industry. They invest in a range of oil-related assets, including oil futures contracts, energy stocks, and oil-related derivatives. By investing in an oil ETF, investors gain exposure to the price movements of crude oil and the broader energy sector, without the need to directly own physical barrels of oil or individual energy stocks.

Advantages of Investing in Oil ETFs

Diversification

One of the key benefits of investing in oil ETFs is the diversification they offer. By investing in a single oil ETF, investors gain exposure to a diversified portfolio of oil-related assets, reducing the risk associated with investing in individual stocks. This diversification can help to mitigate the impact of volatility in the oil market and protect investors from the risks associated with investing in a single company.

Liquidity and Accessibility

Oil ETFs are traded on major stock exchanges, providing investors with high liquidity. This means that investors can buy and sell shares of oil ETFs at market prices throughout the trading day. The liquidity of oil ETFs makes it easy for investors to enter or exit positions, providing them with flexibility and accessibility.

Cost-Efficiency

Compared to other investment vehicles, such as mutual funds, oil ETFs generally have lower expense ratios. This is because they are passively managed and aim to replicate the performance of an underlying index. Lower expense ratios mean that investors can retain a larger portion of their investment returns over the long term.

Transparency

Oil ETFs provide investors with transparency regarding their holdings. The fund’s prospectus discloses the underlying assets it holds, allowing investors to understand the level of exposure they have to different companies or sectors within the oil industry. This transparency empowers investors to make informed decisions about their investment strategy.

Considerations for Investing in Oil ETFs

Risk Factors

Before investing in oil ETFs, it’s essential to consider the risk factors associated with the oil industry. Oil prices can be volatile and are influenced by a variety of factors, including global economic conditions, geopolitical events, and supply and demand dynamics. It’s crucial for investors to assess their risk tolerance and understand the potential impact of these factors on the performance of oil ETFs.

Expense Ratios and Tracking Error

While oil ETFs generally have lower expense ratios compared to actively managed funds, it’s important to evaluate these costs when selecting a specific ETF. Additionally, investors should also consider the tracking error of the ETF, which is the difference between the performance of the ETF and the underlying index it aims to replicate. Lower expense ratios and tracking errors can positively impact investment returns.

Tax Implications

Investors should also be aware of the tax implications associated with investing in oil ETFs. Depending on the investor’s jurisdiction, capital gains, and dividend income may be subject to taxes. It’s advisable to consult with a tax professional to understand the specific tax implications and optimize the tax efficiency of an investment portfolio.

How to Invest in Oil ETFs

Research and Analysis

Before investing in oil ETFs, it’s crucial to conduct thorough research and analysis. Evaluate different oil ETFs based on their holdings, expense ratios, tracking errors, and performance history. Analyze the underlying index the ETF aims to replicate and assess its composition and methodology. This research will help investors make informed decisions about the most suitable oil ETFs for their investment goals.

Establish an Investment Account

To invest in oil ETFs, investors need to open an investment account with a reputable brokerage firm. Research different brokerage options, comparing factors such as trading fees, account minimums, and available research tools. Once the account is established, investors can deposit funds and execute trades to purchase shares of oil ETFs.

Monitor and Review

Investing in oil ETFs requires ongoing monitoring and periodic review. Stay informed about the latest news and developments in the oil industry that may impact the performance of oil ETFs. Regularly review the holdings and performance of the chosen ETFs to ensure they align with investment objectives. Adjustments to the portfolio may be necessary based on changing market conditions or personal financial goals.

Conclusion

Investing in oil ETFs can be a rewarding endeavor for novice investors seeking exposure to the energy sector. By understanding the advantages, considerations, and investment processes associated with oil ETFs, investors can make well-informed decisions and potentially benefit from the growth and opportunities offered by the oil industry. Remember to conduct thorough research, assess risk factors, and consult with financial professionals if needed. With the right knowledge and a strategic approach, investors can embark on their journey in the world of oil ETFs confidently.

Efficient Email Management

Clean Email is a streamlined tool designed to declutter your inbox. It efficiently helps to group, label, archive, or mass delete emails, allowing you to manage them with ease. Instead of handling each message separately, Clean Email organizes them into manageable categories, enabling a more efficient approach to email management.

The app’s Unsubscriber also shows you all your subscriptions and lets you unsubscribe easily with one click. It makes sure you’re really unsubscribed by doing tasks like filling out forms and sending requests. If a sender ignores these requests, the app quickly moves those emails to the Trash, so you don’t have to worry.

But the app isn’t just about unsubscribing. The diverse features, from Smart Folders that automatically organize your emails to the ‘Read Later’ feature that stows away subscription emails for future perusal, ensure comprehensive inbox management. 

Tools like the Screener offer extra defense against spam, and Auto Clean further simplifies the process with automation rules. And in a time where data breaches seem all too frequent, the Privacy Monitor is a welcome feature that keeps your email data in check against known breaches.

Main features:

• Unsubscriber
• Auto Clean
• Smart Folders
• Sender Settings
• Screener
• Privacy Monitor
• and more

Compatibility and Security

A noteworthy mention is the app’s compatibility. Whether you’re a Gmail user or prefer Outlook, iCloud, or other IMAP services, Clean Email has you covered. Plus, with availability across web, macOS, iOS, and Android, it offers a consistent experience regardless of the device you use.

The app employs 128-bit encryption from Comodo, ensuring a high level of protection for your data. Coupled with responsive customer support, you can trust that your private information remains secure.

But what really caught my attention was Clean Email’s dedication to security. With a track record of meeting Google’s multi-step verification consistently since May 2019, it demonstrates a strong commitment to user security. The fact that you can connect your Gmail without a separate app password, simply using your usual credentials, is a testament to its robust security protocols.

Pricing Model with Privacy at its Core

A freemium pricing model ensures you can test out Clean Email’s capabilities without any initial investment. The app provides a flexible pricing model to suit diverse inbox management needs. The platform offers a free account for cleaning up to 1,000 messages, while a 14-day Premium trial grants access to advanced features, including the Screener, Sender and Mailing List Settings, Auto Clean, and 50 unsubscribe actions. 

The premium subscription, which offers enhanced features, is devoid of ads and, most crucially, user data isn’t exploited for revenue.

Drawbacks:

• Clean Email is not a completely free service; certain features and functionalities require a premium subscription.
• The app’s interface might be complex for new users who are not familiar with email management tools.
• It lacks phone call support, which might be inconvenient for users seeking immediate assistance.
• The app does not provide the capability to write and reply to emails, functioning as an email management tool rather than a full email client.

Is Clean Email Trustworthy?

Yes! The app prioritizes your privacy by only accessing essential metadata, safeguarding your emails. They delete data from their servers after 45 days and use encryption for access details, showcasing their dedication to user privacy. Clean Email receives praise from experts and everyday users alike, not only for its features but also for its responsible handling of user data. The developers emphasize their commitment to providing value without compromising user data for financial gain.

Conclusion

Amidst overflowing inboxes and worries about data privacy, Clean Email stands out as a solution. Designed for users, packed with features, and super focused on privacy, it’s the perfect way to clean up your inbox and take charge. If you want an effective, safe, and reliable email tool, Clean Email is a great pick.

For more information, visit clean.email

Browser-based games like Cleopatra slots will work on a Mac; these don’t require downloads and can be played on mobile devices and PCs as well. However, for the hardcore gamer, the Mac just wasn’t on the radar as a choice; unable to run the games due to the different operating systems, and not built to be upgraded with aftermarket parts like the Windows PC. 

However, the stereotypically awful gaming experience that a Mac offered for hardcore gamers might be a thing of the past, thanks to the new M1 Chipset that was introduced in the 2020 edition. 

Why Gamers Didn’t Choose a Mac

Macs are considered the top option for many different uses, especially in design-led jobs for example – but those capabilities don’t always translate to being great for gaming. 

Traditionally, the Mac has not been the first choice for gamers. Not only is it considerably more expensive than a PC for similar specs, but the lack of personalisation and upgrades for the Mac has also made it much less ‘future-proof’. 

Gamers want to be able to add and remove parts of the system to suit their gaming style and games. While Macs can be upgraded in limited ways (usually through peripherals like the display or the mouse), a PC can essentially be completely gutted and remodelled. 

When Intel processes were introduced to the Mac, gaming on the Mac became a bit easier; games could be simply ported to the Mac, and the developers who would create games for PC, console and handheld devices would be able to get their games on the Mac without needing to rewrite the code to suit the processor. 

Why Might Gamers Choose a Mac Now?

The M-Series Mac, starting with the M1, seemed to be a gamechanger. Not only does it have the graphics capabilities that can handle the AAA games that hardcore gamers want to be able to play, but by late 2023 the Game Porting Toolkit will be available for developers to make it easier for them to get their games to run on the MacOS. 

What also makes the M-Series work well is that there are already several popular titles available, where developers have already done the work to make it run on the ARM-based chip, such as:

• World of Warcraft
• Borderlands
• Hogwarts Legacy
• Call of Duty
• Final Fantasy XIV
• Minecraft
• Asphalt 8

Steam also works with the M-Series Macs, but not all games are available yet.

What Mac Set Up Should You Choose?

When looking into the right Mac set up for your needs, you need to consider the same factors as you would for a Windows-based PC set up – having the right processors, the right GPU, and the right amount of memory. 

Below is a list of what you should look for.

CPU

The CPU is the processing power; when it comes to the Mac, you need at least 12-core – which you can find in the M2 Max or the M2 Pro – although you can get 24-core CPU in the M2 Ultra (which is obviously better). 

GPU

The GPU is the processor that is needed for the images and animation from the games to flow across the screen properly. For may gamers, the GPU must be top notch, especially when playing graphically intense games that won’t work if it glitches. You’ll need at least a 16-core GPU like in the M2 Pro, but the M2 Max offers either 30- or 38-core, while the M2 Ultra can have up to 72-core. 

RAM

RAM is the memory that is used to run different things on the Mac concurrently, and ideally you want as much RAM as you can afford. The more RAM, the faster reaction times you’ll have when you are playing. Remember that unlike a PC, you can’t upgrade this later. The M2 Ultra offers up to 192GB of RAM, which would be good enough. 

SSD

The hard drive allows you to have enough space to download games, which is important if you are playing the AAA titles. The M-Series Macs offer up to 1TB of SSD, which you should go for if you have the budget.

Display

One thing that the Mac has going for it is that in most cases you won’t need additional displays or monitors – the built-in high resolution Retina display is top notch; although this is one place where you could upgrade if you wanted to. 

Extras

If you want to be able to play games on your M-Series Mac that are not yet available in the right code for the M1 chip, then you can get apps that will help. One of these is the Crossover Mac app, built by Codeweavers. This app is designed to translate the x86-64 code for Windows to the ARM64 code for MacOS. 

The ultimate setup for a Mac gamer would be the Mac Studio with M2 Ultra – the very top of the range, with a cost that matches. 

In a world where technology continues to push the boundaries of innovation, the concept of an infrared thermometer camera may seem like something out of a sci-fi movie. However, this cutting-edge device has become an indispensable tool in various industries, offering a multitude of benefits that were once unimaginable. From detecting hidden electrical faults to identifying thermal leaks in buildings, an infrared thermometer camera provides a unique and invaluable perspective by capturing images based on temperature variations rather than visible light.

Today, infrared thermometer cameras come in a variety of shapes and sizes. My favorites are the ones that connect directly to my phone and work in tandem with an app. I recently had the option to test out the P2 Pro Xinfrared Thermal Camera for Smartphones by InfiRay. It’s small and exceptionally accurate with temperature readings.

About P2 Pro Xinfrared Thermal Camera for Smartphones

InfiRay, a leader of infrared thermal imaging, created the P2 Pro as the world’s smallest thermal camera. The camera only weighs in at 9g and is 9mm in size. The camera offers a high-performance resolution of 256 x 192 and a 25Hz motion capture camera. The P2 Pro comes with a magnetic Macro Lens and features InfiRay’s AI Temp technology, which ensures accurate temperature measurements. The camera has an all-metal body and measures temperatures between -20~550º Celcius.

Main Features

• Resolution: 256 x 192
• Pixel Pitch: 12um
• NETD: ≤50mK @25°C,F#1.0
• Operating Band: 8~14um

Performance

• Frame Rate: 25Hz
• Operating Temperature: -10°C~+55°C
• Storage Temperature: -40°C~+85°C
• Power Consumption: 350 mW
• Processor: Self-developed ASIC chip

Lens

• Focal Length: 3.2mm
• Aperture: F1.1
• FOV: 56.0°×42.2°
• Focusing Mode: Athermalized prime lens

Temperature Measurement

• Measurement Range: 20°C~+550°C
• Measurement Accuracy: ‡2°C (‡2% of reading, the greater shall prevail)
• Temperature Correction: Emissivity, distance, environmental temperature

Shell

• Size: 27×18×9.8 (mm)
• Color: Silver
• Weight: 9g
• Interface: USB type C or Lightning

App Function

• Palette: White/black-hot + 6 pseudo colors
• Measurement Method: Point/line/area temperature measurement
• Information Sharing: Instant picture sharing
• Data Analysis: Secondary temperature analysis and processing of images
• Imaging Tool: Android 6.0 and above
• App Update: Online update

Pricing & Availability

The P2 Pro is currently available through Alibaba.com for a price of $299.00 (if buying 1-2 units).

User Experience

The box for the P2 Pro camera is nearly all black with “InfiRay P2 Pro” printed in gold on the front. The phrase “touch the temperature of the world” is printed in English and Chinese on two sides of the box and basic product information (name, model, etc.) is included on the back. It’s a very plain box with only the essential information included.

I was surprised to find very little when I opened the box. There is a small folder with some print materials included and beneath that is the camera and the Macro lens adapter. The majority of the box was filled with foam inserts that had cutouts for the camera. I feel that the company could probably shrink the size of the box and still have plenty of room for all the materials included.

Getting started with the P2 Pro camera is very, very simple. First you download the app for your device. The user manual instructs you to search for “P2 Pro” in your app store, but that did not return the correct apps for me. I did a second search for “InfiRay” and the correct app “Thermal P2” was one of the options. That is the correct app to use.

After the app is downloaded, you simply plug the camera into the Lightning port an wait for it to initialize. Something to note here – all the pictures in the instruction manual show the camera facing the same direction as the screen of your phone. That doesn’t really make sense because you wouldn’t be able to monitor what you were doing while using the camera.

When it does initialize, the thermal image will be returned on the screen of your phone. this is the basic mode that most people would want to use. There is a “Professional Thermometry” option that provides users with the chance to do things like look at a range of temperature between two points or select an area within the camera view and have a range of temperatures returned. This is a pretty nice feature if you need to have more advanced data like that.

By default, the temperature unit is set to ‘Celcius’ but you can change this within the Settings menu > Measurement Setting. Users also have the ability to view the thermal image in a variety of color palettes.

When it came to testing, I decided to take some images of my dog while he was asleep in his favorite chair. The location of the chair happens to be next to an air vent and our air conditioner was currently running. So, I knew I would get an interesting range of temperatures. Using the basic mode, I snapped a few shots making sure to keep the dog and the vent in the frame. Then I used a separate digital infrared thermometer to see how accurate the temperatures were. The dog’s temperature was about 1-degree difference between the two thermometers while the air vent was exactly the same.

Images are saved to the app and not the phone’s photo library. This was something I wasn’t a big fan of because I find it easier to locate images if they are all stored in the same place. It would be great if a software update to the app could offer this as an option within settings for users who want to have the flexibility of where to store their captured images and video.

Pros

1. Very easy to use – essentially plug ‘n’ play.
2. Readings seem to be accurate.
3. It does not have to be charged.

Cons

1. The packaging seems like too much for such a small product.
2. The instructions direct users to the wrong app. “Thermal P2” is the correct one for iOS users.
3. The carrying pouch was a little too small to store the camera in safely.
4. Thermal images are saved within the app – not to the Photos app.

Conclusion

The P2 Pro Xinfrared Thermal Camera for smartphones is an innovative and practical tool that brings thermal imaging technology to the palm of your hand. With its compact size and easy integration with smartphones, this camera opens up a world of possibilities for both personal and professional use. Whether you need to detect heat signatures for home maintenance, wildlife observation, or even medical applications, the P2 Pro Xinfrared Thermal Camera has you covered. Its high-resolution images and real-time video capabilities provide accurate and detailed thermal information that can greatly enhance your understanding of the world around you.

For more information, visit infiray.com, Facebook, or Twitter. Website

Upgrade your self-care routine with the HEYCHY V2 Massage Gun.

In a world where self-care and relaxation are becoming increasingly important, finding the perfect tool to alleviate muscle tension and promote overall well-being is paramount. But visiting a professional masseuse can be far too cost-prohibitive and too time consuming. Fortunately, personal massage guns — like the V2 Massage Gun from HEYCHY — offers. users the same type of deep tissue therapy they might find in a massage parlor. These handheld devices have rapidly gained in popularity as a go-to solution for anyone in need of relaxation and rejuvenation.

About HEYCHY V2 Massage Gun

The HEYCHY V2 Massage Gun provides the ultimate solution for those seeking relief from sore muscles and fatigue. With its sleek design and advanced technology, this innovative device offers a personalized massage experience at your fingertips. Whether you’re an athlete recovering from intense workouts or an office worker dealing with daily stressors, the HEYCHY V2 Massage Gun promises to be your go-to companion for instant relaxation and rejuvenation. Say goodbye to expensive spa appointments and hello to a convenient self-massage option that will leave you feeling revitalized in no time.

Main Features

• High-capacity Rechargeable Battery: A 2600 mAh battery is included, which provides a usage time of up to 6-8 hours. The battery is rechargeable using a USB-C cable (included).
• High-torque Brushless Motor: The massage gun’s motor has a high torque of 230mN*m and a sizeable striking force of 135N.
• Quiet Operation: The high-quality motor and excellent structural design control the noise to below 45dB, so you can avoid the ‘hammer drill’ noise common on cheap fascia guns and enjoy a more peaceful massage without disturbing others around you.
• Five (5) Speed Levels: There are variable speeds between 2000-3200 rpm and the intensity gradually increases with each level.
• Five (5) Massage Heads + Carrying Case: Five (5) professional massage heads are included to meet the different massage needs.

Pricing & Availability

The HEYCHY V2 Massage Gun has a list price of $79.99 and is exclusively sold on Amazon.

User Experience

The massage gun comes in a well-labeled retail box. There is an image on the front of the box that indicates what the user will find inside. The brand name “HEYCHY” is not on the outside of the box, but it is printed on the label of the travel case. When you open the exterior box, you will find the massager inside the travel box along with its accessories, manual, and charging cable. Right away, I was impressed with the quality of the storage case and the presentation of the product.

I’ve used several massaging guns like the HEYCHY V2, but because this one has a slightly smaller body frame, I wasn’t sure if I would have the same success as I did with the other brands. Out of the box, the gun had approximately 50% charge. To get started with it, you press/hold the power button located on the back of the massager above the handle. The battery indicator will light up as will the power indicators. Users can increase the power level by pressing the power button once it’s already on.

I’m not much for powerful massages as they end up hurting more than helping, so I found power level 1 to be plenty for my uses. I tried it on my shoulder, neck, and lower back. Earlier in the evening I had completed some house cleaning and because of that those areas were quite stiff. The massager was able to help loosen up those muscles and I was much more relaxed after using it.

Even though this is a little smaller than other full size massagers, it is a little pricer than similar items on Amazon. There are some brands (i.e. Theragun, Hypervolt, etc.) that are much more expensive. Therefore, I don’t feel the pricing of this massager is outlandish. It works well and because it comes with the attachments it does, it is a big asset to anyone who needs to massage muscles on a regular basis.

Pros

1. Comes with a travel case for storage.
2. Easy to use.
3. Instruction guide tells you about the different attachments.
4. Smaller, more travel-friendly than other full size massage guns.

Cons

1. More expensive than other third-party brands.
2. Only sold on Amazon; brand does not have home website.

Conclusion

The HEYCHY V2 Massage Gun is a powerful and versatile tool that offers a wide range of benefits for athletes and individuals seeking relief from muscle tension and soreness. With its advanced technology and adjustable settings, it provides a customizable massage experience that can target specific areas of the body with precision. Its compact design and long battery life make it portable and convenient for use at home, in the gym, or on the go. Furthermore, the HEYCHY V2 Massage Gun’s ergonomic handle and quiet operation ensure comfort and relaxation during each session.

Use code “HeyChyV207” at checkout on Amazon to received 40% off.

Enhance your smartwatch experience with Zox Smart Watch Bands. Find the perfect fit and style that complements your lifestyle.

I have had the hardest time finding a comfortable, all-around use watch band for my Apple Watch. I find things that I like about each band type/style, but nothing has ‘clicked’ with me as the best band. A couple of weeks ago, a package of watch band samples from Zox showed up and I honestly don’t know how I survived this long without them.

About the Zox Brand

Admittedly, I didn’t know anything about the brand ‘Zox’ when the watch bands arrived. So, I read up on the company and thought including some of their story here would be relevant to this review.

Zox started out as a creative project designed by Jason Kuipers. A collector of all things — sneakers in particular — Jason got the idea for his first product when he was attempting to accessorize a pair of Nike’s in 2010. He stylized a piece of elastic with paint markers, sewed it together, and started wearing it around. The first Zox band was reversible and Jason would wear it instead of a watch. Upon wearing it home at the end of the year, his family jumped on the project with his mom sewing the wristbands together and his brothers — Brandon and Jordan — spreading the word about their new designer accessory by wearing them in public. Here is an excerpt from their website story.

My mom had a ridiculously hard time sewing the wristbands together as they were so small and intricate, but got all of them done after a few hours of failed attempts. My dad suggested we call our new invention Zox Straps. We all laughed at the time, but he insisted it would catch on so we went with it. He now claims he owns 1% of the company because of this.

The next day, my brothers both wore their newly created wristbands to school for the first time. I remember as I was sitting on the couch when they got back, they ran in the door with excitement, saying that we had to figure out how to make more because all their friends wanted some.

That’s when it hit me – we had just invented a whole new style of wristband.

We sat down to brainstorm, taking notes of what this project meant to us. We wanted it to be collectible, collaborative, philanthropic and a completely epic experience. Each of those things, to this day, is still a pillar of who we are – a brand – that makes me super happy.

One of the most unique things about these bands is all the little touches that the Kuipers put into them. The golden ticket from Willy Wonka, the packaging from a pack of basketball cards (but resealable to keep it fresh!), the nicknames people give sneakers and the VIN numbers on cars — all these elements are part of the Zox band experience. Watch this profile video produced in 2020 to learn more about the Zox Band Story.

Zox Watch Band Main Features

Even though the Zox brand started with a simple wristband, the company now produces a variety of products including clothing, bags, keychains, medical ID bands, and smart watch bands. The Zox Smart Watch Bands are designed to work with nearly every style of smartwatch. The bands feature the signature style of the Zox band and are designed to uplift and encourage. The watch bands are 100% adjustable so they can fit as many wrists as possible.

The Smart Watch Bands are also collectible. Each watch band is individually numbered on both the band and matching collectors card to ensure no two are ever the same. Numbers 0001 – 0100 are stitched in gold and include Gold Cards that can be redeemed for special, limited edition rewards.

Finally, the most extraordinary feature of the Smart Watch Band is that it is made from recycled water bottles. This is elastic used to product the watch bands is made from milled recycled water bottles from Repreve. Each band takes the equivalent of on 8oz water bottle out of the ecosystem.

The Smart Watch Bands are compatible with Apple Watches (38/40/41mm, 42/44/45mm, & Ultra), Android (20mm & 22mm), and adapters can be added so that the bands can be used with FitBit and Google Pixel.

Pricing & Availability

The Zox Smart Watch Bands are all priced between $24.95 and $34.95 — no matter what style you choose! Zox also has an option on their website for customers to buy three and get on free. Zox watch bands are also available on Amazon.

User Experience

One of the first things I noticed was the very simple packaging that the band came in. The band is wrapped around a small card that includes the name of the band style and its unique ID number. The packaging is a plastic sleeve with a zippered closure. It’s a bit of a tight fit and I did have some trouble getting the band out of the sleeve, but overall I liked the approach and thought behind it. Remember, the creators wanted customers to feel as though they were getting something collectible. So the sleeve is meant to mimic the look/feel of a pack of baseball cards. There are a couple of things I think would improve the packaging.

First, it would be great if the actual size of the band was included. I didn’t spot the “S” or “L” on the sleeve at first and thought that the bands were all for a different size watch than I had. So, either including the actual mm size on the label or making the S/L more prominent might be a good idea. Second, having the name of the design on the pouch would also be good. Yes, the front of the sleeve is transparent, but there is some type that makes it a little hard to see exactly what the design is unless you remove it from the pouch. These are extremely minor criticisms and I realize that these pouches are probably mass produced so they can be used with as many versions as possible, but for the user, it would be easier if those elements were included.

Once I figured out the right size for my Apple Watch (I have a 41mm Series 8 body) I chose the design I wanted to wear. I’m a big Starry Night fan so I immediately pulled that one from the pile. the detail of the design is magnificent and honestly, the images on the website don’t do the colors justice. They are vibrant and full of life. I connected the band to my watch body and slipped it on my wrist. I did, of course, have to adjust the band, which I found difficult with the band on my wrist.

So, I slipped the watch back off and tightened the band. Since I first installed the band, I have only had to adjust it one time. I think that says mountains about the durability and flexibility of the material itself. I sleep with my watch on, I workout with it on, and I wear it probably 90% of the day. It doesn’t slip and it hasn’t had any connection issues with my wrist.

This band is seriously the most comfortable one I’ve ever worn. The material is soft and breathable and the adjustment bangle sits in a comfortable spot on my wrist. I love that the band is made from recycled materials. To me, that is a added bonus to an already amazing accessory. In comparison to Apple Watch bands, these are extremely affordable. The sport loop bands that I typically wear retail for $49 each. The Zox bands start at $25 and if you by 3, you get one free. That is an incredible value for this incredible product.

Pros

1. Easy to install
2. Fit the Apple Watch body well.
3. Lots of color styles to choose from.
4. Available for all models of Apple Watch as well as other smart watches.
5. Bands are made from recycled water bottles.
6. Affordable.

Cons

1. A little hard to adjust while it’s on the wrist.
2. The website has a lot of content and it’s a little hard to navigate.
3. The bags the bands come in are not labeled by styles.
4. The sizes on the bags are S, L — don’t match the nomenclature of Apple Watch bodies.

Conclusion

Zox Smart Watch Bands offer a stylish and versatile option for Apple Watch owners. With their unique designs and comfortable fit, these bands stand out from the crowd and allow users to express their individuality. The high-quality materials ensure durability and longevity, making them a worthwhile investment. Whether you’re looking for a band to match your everyday style or want something more fun and playful, Zox has a design for everyone. In my opinion, you won’t find a better value for the quality you get with Zox Smart Watch Bands.

For more information, visit zox.la, Facebook, and Twitter.

Enhance your productivity with the AZURE K652 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard.

In an era dominated by technological advancements and innovation, wireless keyboards have emerged as a game-changer — especially for me. I never thought I would stress/worry about cables strewn across my desk, but as I transitioned to a position that allowed me to work from home, I really found the value of desk real estate.

A wireless keyboard offers the freedom to work or play from anywhere within its range, untangling us from the constraints of wired setups. With their sleek design and ease of use, these keyboards have become increasingly popular among individuals seeking convenience and efficiency in their daily lives. I’ve tested out many wireless keyboards and I’ve found that the slim keyboards — like the AZURE K652 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard from Redragon — are my favorites.

About AZURE K652 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard

The Redragon AZURE K652 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard is a game-changer for Mac users seeking a reliable and efficient typing experience. With its sleek design, advanced wireless technology, and mechanical switches, this keyboard offers optimal performance and convenience for both work and play. Whether you are a professional needing precision in your daily tasks or a gamer looking to enhance your gaming experience, the Redragon AZURE K652 provides the ideal solution with its premium features tailored specifically for Mac users. Say goodbye to tangled wires and hello to seamless connectivity as we delve deeper into the world of this impressive wireless mechanical keyboard.

Main Features

• 75% 84 keys layout (full rollover)
• -35% ultra thin design
• 3-mode connection: USB-C wired, BT 3.0/5.0 & 2.4Ghz wireless
• 100% WIN/MAC system support
• Professional Software Support
• Aluminum Top Plate
• RGB Backlit
• Extra Full Set with Added 7 Orange Keycap
• Different switch types available: Outemu Red, Outemu Blue, Outemu Brown, Outemu Low Profile Red
• Keyboard Size: 12.5 x 5.0 inch
• Item Weight: 494g
• Switches: Low Profile Switches

Pricing & Availability

The Redragon AZURE K652 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard for Mac is available thorugh redragonshop.com for $69.99 and Amazon for $52.49 (at the time of publishing).

User Experience

The box the keyboard comes in is mostly white with a full-color image of the product on the front. There are quite a few details highlighted and the back includes the main features in several languages. When you open the box, you’ll find the keyboard and its accessories safely tucked away within the packaging. The package includes the keyboard, a detachable USB-C cable, the user manual, an extra set of keycaps and a key puller.

While I typically don’t like to make direct comparisons between products, I couldn’t help but notice how similar in design this keyboard was to the NuPhy Air75 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard. That’s not a bad thing because to date, that wireless keyboard has been my favorite low-profile keyboard. So the first thing I noticed was that the keyboard sits flush to the desk. There are lifts on the back that can be flipped out, but they don’t raise the keyboard too much. There is a handy attachable lift that I’ve acquired called the ESC Flip Pro. It can be removed and reattached to keyboards and I’ve swapped it between keyboards multiple times. It really helps me with the low-profile, slim keyboards.

I selected the Outemu Brown switches for my keyboard layout. I like the softer feel of brown switches and since the brown switches and red switches are listed as suitable for “Office/Gaming”, I opted for the brown ones. I have red switches in the aforementioned NuPhy keyboard and found the brown switches are a little more clicky than the red switches are. I have found the switches/keys to be remarkably responsive and very easy to type on.

The build quality is amazing with this keyboard. I love the feel of the aluminum frame and it’s very easy to remove keycaps and replace them as needed. I also really love that there is a USB/2.4 Ghz wireless connection option because it makes it very easy for me to switch between my two primary laptops that I have connected to a USB hub. With the Bluetooth connection, which still works very well, there is a lag between switching, but the USB dongle makes it possible for me to swap seamlessly between systems.

My typing experience with the Azure K652 keyboard has been quite enjoyable. The only hang-up I have is when I switch back and forth between different styles of keyboards. If I am typing only on the Azure wireless keyboard, my fingers adapt to it very quickly and my speed and accuracy with typing excel. In order to test this more accurately, I used typingtest.com’s benchmarking test. The image below shows my score in comparison to the average test scores.

Pros

1. Long battery life
2. quiet-responsive keys
3. colorful RGB backlighting
4. USB dongle makes it easy to switch between systems

Cons

1. Would be nice if it had more of a lift to it
2. No 10-key number pad

Conclusion

The Redragon AZURE K652 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard for Mac offers a sleek and reliable option for Mac users in need of a wireless keyboard. Even though it is compatible with both macOS and WindowsOS, it’s refreshing to know that as an Apple user you don’t have to jump through hoops to get it working with your system.

The keyboard’s compact design and its quiet yet responsive keys make this keyboard a versatile choice for any user. The long battery life and convenient USB-C charging add to its appeal, making it ideal for on-the-go professionals or students. Whether you’re typing up documents, gaming, or simply browsing the web, the Redragon AZURE K652 provides a comfortable and efficient typing experience.

For more information, visit redragonshop.com, Facebook, and Twitter.

Experience unlimited power in your hands with Anker Prime 27,650mAh Power Bank (250W). Stay connected wherever you go.

In a world where we are constantly on the move, our reliance on technology has become increasingly apparent. From smartphones to laptops and everything in between, our devices have become essential tools for work, communication, and entertainment. This is especially true of someone like me who works from home and from remote locations. The one thing that ends up holding me back is battery life.

The frustration of running out of power at the most inconvenient moments can be overwhelming and even embarrassing. Fortunately, Anker’s newest charging companions — the Anker Prime Series — provide best-in-class charging solutions for every need. The newest product line was just released today and I was fortunate enough to be able to try out the Anker Prime 250-watt Power Bank and 100W Charging Base early!

Anker Prime 250-watt Power Bank

This incredible charging device features an astonishing 27,650 mAh capacity power bank. The power output is a combined 250 watts for up to three devices at once. With such a large battery capacity, the Anker Prime 250-watt Power Bank is capable of charging and iPhone 14 nearly five times on a single charge. It can be recharged using one of the two built-in USB-C charging ports or the Anker 100W Charging Base.

Main Features

• Model: A1340
• 250W Multi-Device Fast Charging: Powered by the latest PD 3.1 technology, the power bank comes with 2 USB-C ports and 1 USB-A port to deliver up to 250W of power. Boost your MacBook Pro 16″ (M2 Pro) to 50% in just 28 minutes.
• Intuitive Smart App: Use the Anker app to quickly locate your power bank with sound alerts, access real-time stats, and optimize device battery life with smart charging.
• Small Size, Huge Power: The power bank is the size of a soda can with a capacity of 27,650mAh and can charge a 13-inch MacBook Air (M2) 1.28 times or an iPhone 14 approximately 4.67 times.
• 170W Fast USB-C Recharge: Recharge your power bank at lightning speed with the convenience of dual USB-C ports, allowing you to fully replenish it in just 37 minutes.
• What You Get: Anker Prime 27,650mAh Power Bank (250W), 2 ft (0.6 m) 140W USB-C to USB-C charging cable, travel pouch, quick start guide, our worry-free 24-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
• Compatibility: iPhone SE / 12 / 13 / 14 Series and Later, iPad mini / Pro / Air Series, Samsung S23 Series / S22 Series / Note20 / 20 Ultra, Google Pixel 6 / 6 Pro / 7 / 7 Pro / Sony Xperia 1 IV, MacBook Air / Pro Series, HP Chromebook 14, Steam Deck / DJI Mini 2, Nintendo Switch / Lite / OLED, AirPods

Anker 100W Charging Base

The Anker 100W Charging Base is a wireless charging companion for the Anker Prime 250-watt Power Bank. This base offers an elegant solution for keeping the power bank fully charged at all times, a true lifesaver for last-minute packers. Beyond charging the power bank, this base doubles as a convenient 3-port, 100-watt charger to keep on the desk or tossed in a bag for use as a portable standalone charger. The base is available sold separately or as a bundle with the Anker Prime 250-watt Power Bank.

Main Features

• Model: A1902
• Go Wireless, Go Convenient: Experience hassle-free recharging with the charging base—simply place your power bank on the base for an instant boost, up to 100W.
• 4-in-1 Fast Charging: With a total output of 100W shared among 3 USB ports and 1 Pogo pin, the charging base is ideal for powering your essentials.
• Smaller with GaN: With GaN technology, get reliable, high-powered charging in a compact design—comparable in size to an original 96W single-port charger.
• Smart LED Indicator: Easily monitor the status of your Anker Prime Power Bank with the intuitive LED indicator, which flashes while wirelessly recharging and stays steady when fully charged.
• What You Get: Anker 100W Charging Base for Anker Prime Power Bank, power cord for charging base, welcome guide, our worry-free 24-month warranty, and friendly customer service.

Pricing & Availability

The power bank has a list price of $179.99 and the charging base is $69.99. Both products can be purchased from anker.com or amazon.com. The charging base is sold separately or can be purchased as a bundle with the Anker Prime 250W power bank (details TBA).

Based on information available at launch, orders placed for the charging base on or after August 1 will be shipped between August 11-18, 2023 and orders placed for the power bank on or after August 1 will be shipped between October 23-November 9, 2023.

User Experience

Before I start my official analysis, I want to point out that with an early release product, there are usually some testing limitations that a reviewer will have to take into consideration. In this case, the caveats were small but still worth noting.

Early Sample Caveats

• The words “Anker Prime” on the top of the power bank will not appear in the production release of the product.
• The back will include the words “Designed by Anker Innovations.” (my version did)
• The sample product only has functionality with the beta version of the app.
  • Firmware could not be updated.

All of these caveats were things I found I could live with and are essentially minor to the main function of the power bank.

Unboxing

The pre-production version of the power bank was sent in a blank box. It did, however, come with a user manual and USB-C to USB-C charging cable. The charging base did have its standard retail package, which I would assume matches the retail version of the power bank as well as the other devices in the product line.

It’s a stylish black box with a full color photo of the product on the front. There are main details called out and the model number can be clearly found on the bottom of the box. The device is well packaged and I wouldn’t imagine that any damage would happen to it while it’s stored in its box.

Getting Started

Getting started with both devices is very easy and self-explanatory. The power bank had a 21% charge out of the box so I set it on the charging base to fill it up to 100% before using it. The charging base had to be plugged into a power outlet, but it came with its own dedicated power cord so that was as easy as routing the cable through my desk and plugging it into a power strip.

I noticed that when I placed the power bank onto the base that an LED ring illuminated on the front, indicating that it was in use. This only seems to happen when the power bank is charging and not when any device is connected via USB cable. This would be one improvement I would like to see made — an indicator showing any device charging. It could be a simple icon on the side or a different color LED ring. I just think it would be a nice addition.

After approximately 34 minutes, the power bank had gained 66.6% and I calculated the charging rate around 1.96% per minute.

Charging with the Power Bank

When it came to testing the charging feature of the power bank, I used my iPhone 14 Pro as the test subject. It has a 3,200 mAh capacity battery and the power bank could recharge the iPhone nearly 9 times on a full charge. When I started the testing process, the phone had a 43% charge. I plugged it into the power bank using a standard Apple-issued USB-C to Lightning cable and let it charge for approximately 36 minutes. During that time, the iPhone’s battery gained 42%. I do want to callout that after 80%, the iPhone enters Apple Trickle Charging mode and this does affect the charging rate. That said, I based the charging rate off the first 10 minutes the phone was charging. The iPhone 14 Pro had a charging rate of 2.1% per minute.

I also wanted to see how well the power bank would work with an older MacBook Pro. I used my 16-inch 2019 MacBook Pro to test this out. It requires a 96W power adapter, but will charge using USB-C. So, I used my Apple-issued USB-C to USB-C cable and plugged it into the power bank. The laptop immediately ‘dinged’ when I plugged it in and showed that it was plugged into a power adapter. The power bank indicated that the laptop was charging that it was receiving approximately 57W of output power. Since the battery on the laptop was above 80%, I didn’t track the charging like I did with the iPhone, but I was happy with knowing the power bank would provide a charge to this laptop.

Charging with the Charging Base

Just like with the power bank, I used my iPhone 14 Pro as a charging guinea pig for the Charging Base. I used the same testing method and this time, the phone registered a charging rate of 1.25% per minute. The big difference between this test and the Power Bank charging test was that I was using the phone at a moderate level while it was plugged into the charging base. This did, of course, require some power, and I assume that decreased the charging rate. I did also check to see if the charging base could provide power to the 2019 MacBook Pro and yes, it did.

The Connected App

As I mentioned, my app experience is a bit different than what most people will experience. The pre-production sample I received from Anker had a few minor limitations with the app functionality, but I don’t feel that those hindered my overall usability at the end of the day. I really enjoyed being able to view the stats of the devices while they were charging and being able to find the battery across the room. When you ask the app to ‘find a device’ the device will emit a high pitched beep and you should be able to track it down easily — assuming it’s within hearing range. I never really would have thought about an power bank being connected to an app, but I do enjoy the added features it brings.

Pros

1. Easy to recharge with the wireless dock.
2. Great for travel because it replaces other power strip/dock needs
3. Status is easily visible with its LED display.

Cons

1. Some limitations on testing (particularly with the app) with early release product.
2. The power bank is bulky and heavy so it’s not easy to carry on your person.
3. Gets warm when it recharges.
4. No indicator on the charging base when any item is connected; only the power bank.

Conclusion

It can be very hard to find reliable charging devices outside of the original equipment provided by the manufacturer. Anker has become a trusted charging partner for me over the years and I absolutely adore the new products releases they have had over the past couple of years. This Power Bank and Charging Base combo are a match made in heaven for me.

I love the flexibility of being able to take these two devices with me when I travel and know that I have enough power to support my main devices. I also really love the extra features that are provided (the bright display and information from the app. I’m looking forward to seeing other products that Anker releases and can’t wait to use these on my next trip.

For more information, visit anker.com, Facebook, and Twitter.

Anker, the world’s #1 mobile charging brand, today introduced its highly anticipated Anker Prime Series, setting a new standard for best-in-class charging solutions for every need. The new generation of high-speed, multi-port chargers were developed to leverage the full benefits of Gallium Nitride (GaN) technology, including more efficient power transfer, compact design and active heat reduction and monitoring. The Anker Prime lineup features the 240-watt charger for high-performance laptops and the 250- watt power bank (also available in two lower watt models) with an optional 100-watt charging base. The compact charging base enables users to wirelessly charge their power bank, and also doubles as a standalone charger. In addition, the Anker Prime series includes a 100- watt charger and 67-watt charger, as well as a sleek and powerful 6-in-1 charging station, ideal for maintaining an uncluttered workspace.

“When you are on the road with a phone, a tablet, a smartwatch, headphones, and a laptop – how often have you had to make a choice about which product to keep powered on?” asks Steven Yang, CEO of Anker. “At Anker, we understand these dilemmas and are dedicated to providing solutions that empower our customers to stay connected without compromise. Our latest Anker Prime Series has taken a leap forward in delivering charging accessories that not only charge everything faster but also cater to the growing demands of today’s diverse devices. With the Anker Prime Series, Anker continues its mission to charge everything, anywhere, faster and all at once; empowering users with unrivaled power, portability, and performance.”

Anker Prime 240-watt GaN Desktop Charger: Unlimited Charging Potential

The 240-watt desktop charger marks Anker’s most powerful USB-C charger to date. This multi-port charging hub, offering three USB-C ports and one USB-A, can charge two MacBook Pros, an iPhone, and an iPad simultaneously at high speed. Yet, it is only slightly larger than the original single-port 140-watt laptop charger, while hosting four high-speed charging ports. The Anker Prime 240-Watt Desktop Charger showcases a notable milestone towards eliminating the need for proprietary, bulky laptop chargers, leaving no device wanting for power.

Anker Prime 250-watt Power Bank: Superior Power Delivery Anytime, Anywhere

This ultra high-capacity power bank delivers more than 27,000 mAh capacity and 250 watts of simultaneous power output, capable of charging an iPhone 14 almost five times or a Samsung S23 Ultra almost four times on a single charge. Paired with the Anker app, this power bank optimizes charging, monitors charging status with a display screen, and if the device goes missing at the home or office, the user can locate it using Bluetooth. Additionally, the Anker Prime power bank is compatible with a wireless charging base that makes it easier than ever to keep the power bank charged and ready to go at a minute’s notice. The Anker Prime power bank is also available in two lower wattage models (200W and 130W).*

Wireless 100-watt Charging Base: Convenience at Your Fingertips

The Anker Prime 250-watt power bank also comes with a game-changing wireless 100-watt charging base. This base offers an elegant solution for keeping the power bank fully charged at all times, a true lifesaver for last-minute packers. Beyond charging the power bank, this base doubles as a convenient 3-port, 100-watt charger to keep on the desk or tossed in a bag for use as a portable standalone charger. The wireless 100W Charging Base is compatible with all three power bank models. This device is sold separately or can be purchased as a bundle with the Anker Prime 250W power bank.

Anker Prime 67-watt GaN Charger: Perfect Blend of Portability and Power

The Anker Prime 67-watt Charger, is Anker’s most portable high-watt charger ever, packing three ports and the ability to effortlessly charge a 15-inch MacBook Air. This charger is 51% smaller than the original single-port 67-watt charger, easily fitting into the user’s front pocket or small handbag.

Anker Prime 100-watt GaN Charger: Empowering the Multi-tasking Road Warrior

The Anker Prime 100-watt Charger includes three ports, enabling simultaneous high-speed charging for both a MacBook Pro and an iPad Pro. Notably, it is 45% smaller than Apple’s original single-port 96-Watt charger, streamlining every charging need without compromising on power or performance. Both the 67-watt and 100-watt Anker Prime GaN chargers have been redesigned to sit compact and snug against an AC wall outlet.

Anker Prime 6-in-1 Charging Station: An Upgraded Level of Efficiency

For users seeking unparalleled versatility and a clutter-free desk, the Anker Prime 6-in-1 charging station was created with a sleek and ultra-thin design. Compared to last year’s model, this upgraded charging station features 140-watts (compared to 100-watts) and a new smart display that allows users to easily monitor the charging status of their devices. With two AC outlets and 140 watts of plug-in power, this charging station is capable of charging up to four devices simultaneously, making it the ultimate solution for efficient charging.

Anker Prime Lineup

Product Name Max Total Output Ports

Price and Availability

Availability and pricing of Anker Prime lineup is listed below. Most products will be available for purchase as of today on Amazon.com and Anker.com.

• Anker Prime 240-watt GaN Desktop Charger, $199.99: Available for pre-order today on both Amazon.com and Anker.com.
• Anker Prime 250-watt Power Bank, $179.99: Available for pre-order today on both Amazon.com and Anker.com.
• Anker Prime 67-watt GaN Wall Charger, $59.99: Available today.
• Anker Prime 100-watt GaN Wall Charger, $84.99: Available today.
• Anker Prime 130-watt Power Bank, $89.99: Available today.
• Anker Prime 200-watt Power Bank, $129.99: Available today.
• Wireless 100-watt Charging Base, $69.99: Available today.
• Anker Prime 6-in-1 Charging Station, $109.99: Available today.

For more information, visit anker.com, Facebook, and Twitter.

About Anker

Anker is the world’s #1 mobile charging brand and a global leader in sustainable power. This includes wall plugs, wireless chargers, power banks, solar panels, and power solutions for the home and outdoors. Anker recently launched its “Re[Charge] the Future” program and has committed to making more sustainable products and reducing its use of plastic. More information about Anker can be found at anker.com.

About Anker Innovations

Anker Innovations is a global leader in charging technology and a developer of unique, consumer electronic products that support premium audio, mobile entertainment, and the emerging smart home space. This innovation is being led by its six key brands: Anker, AnkerWork, eufy, Nebula, soundcore and AnkerMake. More information on Anker Innovations and its various brands can be found at anker.com.

Whether or not you are a fan of the franchise, you can’t deny the popularity and impact Harry Potter has had on the world. Today, July 31, is Harry Potter’s (the character) birthday. We are first introduced to Harry just before his eleventh birthday during the book, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. Each book in the series represents another year of Harry’s life and his birthday is almost always mentioned. He was born in the year 1980, which makes today, July 31, 2023, his 43rd birthday! How is his birthday being celebrated throughout the world? Read on to find out.

Back to Hogwarts Celebrations

(source PRNewswire; Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc.)

Beginning as a fan celebration, Back to Hogwarts is recognised as one of the biggest days in any Harry Potter fan’s calendar – marking the moment when students would board the Hogwarts Express on Platform 9 ¾ for adventure at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Dressed in their finest cosplay, thousands of fans make the trip to London’s King’s Cross station each year and more come together online to raise their wands for the countdown and share their love of the stories.

Pam Lifford, President, Global Brands, Franchises and Experiences, at Warner Bros. Discovery, said: “Back to Hogwarts is a day cherished by Harry Potter fans of all ages, from all over the world. Just like their passion for the magic of the stories, their celebrations grow every year! 2023 is set to be a year like no other – we will see fan world record attempts in Germany, high octane quiz competitions in France and of course, the UK’s search to find the perfect person to join that amazing countdown. We are so proud to offer new and exciting ways to bring fans together and give them new ways to celebrate the Harry Potter magic – there’s nothing quite like Back To Hogwarts!”

Check out Wizarding World Digital at www.wizardingworld.com for all the Back to Hogwarts updates, including the latest UK activity and info on what’s happening in Italy, Germany, France, Japan, China and more.

Throw a Harry Potter Birthday Party

One of the easiest ways to celebrate HP’s birthday is to watch the movies with family and friends while making fun food and party favors to share. Check out this great guide on How to Throw an Epic Harry Potter Birthday Party on tasteofhome.com. Here are the highlights.

1. Make Harry’s birthday cake. This is the cake that Hagrid made and delivered to him saying, “You’re a wizard, Harry.”
2. Create Butterbeer at home. This is any HP fan’s favorite drink. It comes in a couple of different variations, but it can be fairly easy to make at home using cream soda, caramel extract, and heavy whipping cream.
3. Dress up! Find out your Hogwarts house on wizardingworld.com (formerly Pottermore) and then show your house pride by dressing up in your house colors.

Impact of Harry Potter on Pop Culture

Harry Potter, the boy wizard created by J.K. Rowling, has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on pop culture since his debut in 1997. With a magical world filled with spells, potions, and mythical creatures, the series captured the hearts and imaginations of millions around the globe. Its impact can be seen not only through its massive popularity but also through its influence on various aspects of pop culture.

First and foremost, Harry Potter revolutionized the publishing industry. The series became a global phenomenon almost overnight, with each new release eagerly awaited by fans young and old alike. It revitalized the Young Adult genre and paved the way for other successful franchises like Twilight and The Hunger Games. Moreover, it fostered a newfound love for reading among children who were previously disinterested in books.

If you’ve never experienced the Wizarding world of Harry Potter, join in the birthday celebrations today!

In the ever-evolving landscape of audio technology, wireless earbuds have emerged as a game-changer for music enthusiasts and on-the-go individuals. With a plethora of options flooding the market, it can be overwhelming to find the perfect pair that strikes a balance between exceptional sound quality, comfort, and advanced features.

Amongst the myriad choices available are the Status Between 3ANC Earbuds. They have garnered significant attention for their remarkable performance in delivering an immersive listening experience while effectively blocking out external noise.

About Status Between 3ANC Earbuds

The Status Between 3ANC Earbuds feature a triple driver TWS, with 2 balanced armatures and one dynamic driver, and also has hybrid ANC tech that competes with the Apple AirPods, Sony WF series and Sennheiser Momentum, and 1MORE Aero. The earbuds contain a 10mm dynamic driver and 2x balance armature drivers and connect using Bluetooth 5.2. There are 6 external microphones that provide unparalleled call quality and the earbuds are backed by Status Audio’s 30-day performance guarantee.

Main Features

• 8-12 hours of continuous audio playback
• Hybrid active noise cancellation up to 38 decibels.
• Two balanced armature drivers + one dynamic driver in each earbud. Ultra-wide frequency response with stunning clarity.
• Transparency mode available.
• IPX-5 Water Resistance
• Six beamforming microphones with environmental noise reduction (ENR).
• Companion app for iOS or Android users

Pricing & Availability

The Status Between 3ANC Earbuds have a list price of $249, but are currently marked down to $199 (as of publishing this article) on status.co. Some status products are offered on Amazon, but the Between 3ANC earbuds are not. The earbuds are offered in two color options — Onyx and Bone.

User Experience

The box of the earbuds is a classy retail-style box. If someone saw it on a shelf, they would immediately know what they are getting because there is a full color image of the product on the front. The name “Status Between” is stamped on the side of the box, but no other details (aside from the ANC3 label) is included.

When you first open the box, you will find a stack of pamphlets. The stack includes a warranty card and a user guide. The user guide covers areas such as getting the right fit, controls, the app, charging, and operation. Below the pamphlets is the charging case with earbuds enclosed and accessory kit (charging cable and different sizes of fit wings.

Out of the box, the earbuds were charged approximately 50%. They have adhesive seals over the contacts on the earbuds that need to be removed before the earbuds will charge or become active for pairing. Once you remove the seals, place the earbuds back in the charging case and then remove them for them to be in pairing mode.

Now, I found the next step in the process a little off-kilter from the norm. I downloaded the companion app and assumed that the pairing process would be completed through the app, but I actually had to pair the earbuds to the phone first and then connect the earbuds to the app. Once the earbuds were connected, I saw that they were charged approximately 50% and that a firmware update was needed.

After the update was completed, the battery level showed 27% R and 20% L. So, I slipped them back into the charging case. This action disconnected the earbuds from the app and phone. The earbuds were only in the case for around 60 seconds when I removed them again to reconnect them. The battery level showed 53% R and 40% L and then suddenly they dropped to 30% R and 24% L. At first I wondered if maybe the Firmware update had something to do with the battery level, but after watching the fluctuation happen, I felt that maybe the app’s battery indicator isn’t very accurate.

Next, I swapped the fit wings so that the earbuds were a more tight fit in my ears and placed the earbuds in my ears. I am used to Apple AirPods Pro earbuds so these had a slightly different feel to them at first. They felt a little weighted but after I started listening to music, I really didn’t even notice that they were in my ears at all. I turned on a playlist on my iPhone that features a wide variety of music styles.

I am very impressed with the premium-grade sound quality the Status earbuds produce. There are a lot of small details in music tracks that sometimes get muddied but I didn’t notice that with these earbuds. Everything was clear, crisp, and had depth. The app provides the option to control the Active Noise Cancelling and Ambient Sound modes as well as the Sound Modes. As long has you have a proper fit, the earbuds provide a certain level of noise dampening based on their design.

I didn’t notice a huge difference between the natural sound dampening and the Active Noise Cancelling function. I did, however, notice a big difference between the natural state and the Ambient Sound Mode. Keyboard clicks and air handling noise from our HVAC system came through loud and clear in that mode, but I couldn’t hear anything around me if the Ambient Sound Mode was turned off.

As for the Sound Modes, there are three pre-designed modes — Status Signature, Status Audiophile, and Original Between Pro. I played around with these modes and couldn’t hear a discernible difference between them. The custom EQ option did provide me with the ability to adjust the different pitch levels. The volume level was very strong and I didn’t have an issue with it at all.

The controls are easy to use. There is a physical button on the top of each earbud that controls the noise cancelling modes, voice assistant, battery status, and the power. The touch controls are on the metal part on the sides of the earbuds. I found the touch controls to be responsive and easy to understand.

Pros

1. Comfortable to wear.
2. Sound quality is premium-grade.
3. Ambient Sound Mode was useful and I was able to hear sounds close by.
4. Strong, powerful volume.

Cons

1. Manual pairing to phone is required before app will connect to device.
2. Battery level in app may not be accurate.
3. Pre-programmed sound modes don’t provide added sound definition.
4. ANC wasn’t much different than natural state of earbuds.

Conclusion

Overall, the Status Between 3ANC earbuds are powerful, premium sounding headphones. I can see some room for improvement but think these are strong competitors to other earbuds in the same space. They are priced similarly to other premium earbuds and I’m not sure that is a fair value for what you get.

For more information, visit https://www.status.co, Facebook, and Twitter.