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Explore Fresh Finds: Gadgets, Tools, and More to Simplify Your Lifestyle

Scott Webster
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Explore Fresh Finds: Gadgets, Tools, and More to Simplify Your Lifestyle

As we step into the weekend, it’s time to discover some exciting new products that are sure to elevate your daily life. This week’s selection features a thoughtful mix of innovative tech gadgets, practical tools, and delightful finds that cater to a variety of interests and needs. Whether you’re looking to enhance your productivity, upgrade your home setup, or simply treat yourself to something special, we’ve curated a list that has something for everyone. Get ready to explore the latest must-haves!

CUKTECH CP253L Power Bank

The CUKTECH 20,000mAh Power Bank offers rapid charging capabilities with a robust 45W output, making it ideal for charging devices like the iPixel 9 Pro and MacBook Air quickly. Whether you’re navigating travel, work, or emergency situations, this portable charger keeps your essential devices powered.

A built-in USB-C cable eliminates the hassle of tangled wires and doubles as a carrying strap, adding convenience to your on-the-go lifestyle. With impressive charging speeds, you can power up your MacBook Air to 42% in just 30 minutes.

The sizable 20,000mAh capacity means multiple charges for your devices—up to four times for a typical smartphone. With three output ports, you can recharge multiple gadgets simultaneously, making this power bank a practical choice for tech enthusiasts or anyone looking for reliable backup power. $30

myFirst Camera 50

The myFirst Camera 50 is an engaging tool designed for children aged 5-12, combining fun and creativity with ease of use. This camera enables kids to document their world through high-quality 1080P video recording and a 20MP rear camera, perfect for capturing vibrant memories. With a lightweight design and ergonomic build, it’s easy for small hands to handle.

The standout feature is the AI-assisted editing, which simplifies video creation. Young users can creatively assemble their footage, adding stickers and fun effects to bring their stories to life. The “myDiary” function further supports emotional expression and mental wellness by allowing children to document their thoughts and feelings privately.

Safety is paramount; the myFirst Circle app ensures secure sharing within a controlled social environment. With features like a pin-code protected diary and parental controls, this camera serves as a safe introduction to photography and storytelling, appealing to both children and their parents. $130

Shokz OpenRun Pro 2

The Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 headphones utilize advanced bone conduction technology to deliver high-quality sound while allowing users to remain aware of their surroundings. With DualPitch™ technology, these headphones minimize vibrations, enhancing comfort during extended use. Weighing lightly on the ears, they feature a specialized design that reduces clamping force and evenly distributes pressure, ensuring a pleasant fit.

With an impressive battery life of up to 12 hours, a quick 5-minute charge offers 2.5 hours of listening time, making them ideal for workouts or commutes. The USB-C charging port simplifies power-ups, while the IP55 water resistance stands up to sweat and rain.

Equipped with dual wind-resistant microphones and an AI noise reduction algorithm, your voice remains clear even in noisy environments. Perfect for fitness enthusiasts or anyone on the go, the OpenRun Pro 2 blends comfort, performance, and convenience for a superior audio experience. $180

Dragon Touch 15.6″ Digital Picture Frame

The Dragon Touch 15.6 Inch Large Digital Picture Frame provides a wonderful way to display your favorite memories. It allows users to invite up to 20 friends or family members to share photos and videos, making it a thoughtful gift for college students, new parents, grandparents, and newlyweds.

Setting it up is straightforward, thanks to its intuitive touch screen interface, which makes it accessible to individuals of all ages. With WiFi connectivity, you can instantly send photos and videos using the VPhoto app or via email (compatible only with 2.4 GHz WiFi).

The 15.6-inch full HD display with a 1920×1080 resolution showcases your images beautifully. You can interact with your pictures easily and even enjoy music or check the weather through its bonus features. This digital frame combines functionality and style, making it an appealing addition to any home or office decor. $90

WATERH Boost Bottle

The WaterH Boost Bottle is designed to transform your hydration experience. With a generous 32 oz capacity, it automatically tracks your water intake and sends intuitive reminders to keep you on top of your hydration goals. This bottle features a sleek touch screen with an LED display that lights up for those essential hydration notifications, ensuring you never forget to take a sip.

Its triple-walled stainless steel construction keeps beverages cold for 24 hours or hot for your morning coffee, making it perfect for both workouts and daily commutes. The integrated push notifications and 360° LED light serve as gentle cues to remind you of your self-care.

Ideal for those looking to stay hydrated without the hassle, the WaterH Boost Bottle combines technology with practicality. Whether you’re at the gym, in the office, or out for a hike, this bottle brings style and function to your hydration routine. $50

Android 16 Set for Early 2025 Launch, Paving Way for Spring Release

Scott Webster
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Android 16 Set for Early 2025 Launch, Paving Way for Spring Release

For years, Google has kept to a consistent rhythm, releasing new Android versions each fall after extensive beta testing. Now, Android users and developers can expect a shift in tempo. Google is moving up its next major Android update, Android 16, to Q2 of 2025, marking a departure from its typical fall launch cycle. This adjustment, confirmed by Google, aims to better align with device launch schedules, bringing the latest Android updates to users and manufacturers sooner than usual.

In addition to the new timeline, Android 16 has been given a codename dessert fans may recognize—”Baklava.” Alongside this release, Google is introducing some notable improvements, particularly in its Play Store. Now, users will be able to customize recommendations for apps in a similar way they already do for games, refining what they see based on shared preferences.

via Android Developers

Google is also focusing on its developer tools, enhancing Android Studio with more AI-driven features via its Gemini AI. These tools will allow developers to streamline code writing, refactoring, and documentation, adding to a smoother app development process. Developers will also benefit from an adjusted release cadence, with a minor SDK release in Q4 aimed at introducing new features without overhauling system architecture.

A new release schedule could reduce lag times for third-party Android devices, a longstanding challenge in the Android ecosystem. This delay has often left devices other than Google’s Pixel phones waiting for the latest features long after they’ve been available. With Android 16 arriving in spring, manufacturers may be able to roll out new devices with current Android features built-in, reducing the need for follow-up updates.

This shift in Google’s Android timeline not only benefits manufacturers but also promises a more cohesive experience for users across the Android ecosystem. With compatibility testing moving forward and a potential influx of devices that support the latest Android features from day one, this schedule change is expected to make Android’s ecosystem more adaptable and streamlined.

MEATER Introduces Pro Duo: Dual-Device Smart Meat Thermometers

Scott Webster
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MEATER Introduces Pro Duo: Dual-Device Smart Meat Thermometers

MEATER today unveiled the MEATER Pro Duo, an advanced smart meat thermometer engineered for precision and convenience. Immediately available for purchase on MEATER.com, the Pro Duo allows users to monitor two dishes simultaneously, making it an ideal tool for both everyday cooking and special occasions.

Building on the success of the MEATER Pro, the Pro Duo maintains the high-temperature limits and durable stainless steel design that users have come to expect. The standout feature of the Pro Duo is its ability to connect unlimited WiFi and cloud range, coupled with an additional probe. This enhancement enables cooks to perfectly prepare two separate dishes at the same time, whether it’s a steak for two or two different portions for one.

Priced at $199.95, the MEATER Pro Duo offers several key features:

  • Unlimited WiFi & Cloud Range: Seamlessly monitor your cooking from anywhere.
  • Stainless Steel Design: Durable and sleek, suitable for any kitchen setup.
  • Waterproof Capabilities: Ensures longevity and ease of cleaning.
  • USB-C Charging: Fast and convenient power options.
  • Advanced Temperature Precision: Guarantees accurate cooking results.
  • Smart Temp™ Multi Sensors Technology: Provides comprehensive temperature data for optimal cooking.

Perfect for the holiday season and gift-giving, the MEATER Pro Duo combines functionality with modern design, making it a thoughtful present for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.

WiiM Pro Audio Streamer Review

Andrew Allen
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WiiM Pro Audio Streamer Review

I have to admit, I’d never hear of WiiM Audio until about a month ago. Then, I began searching for stereo options that support both Chromecast and AirPlay2. My house is often divided, with me being the lone Android user in our home. I wanted a solution for all to stream music to our kitchen. Not surprisingly, this proved difficult. That is, until I found WiiM Audio and the fantastic Pro streamer.

Design

Basically, the WiiM Pro is a Chromecast and AirPlay receiver wrapped in a small box, roughly the same size as a Roku. The streamer doesn’t have internal speakers, however, and relies on external outputs. This can be done via the array of ports on the rear of the unit. This includes composite, optical, and coaxial audio options. The back of the WiiM Pro is rounded out with power and network connectivity. Power is supplied via USB-C input. An RJ45 Ethernet jack serves as the hardwired network option, while Wi-Fi is also included internally. This allows the WiiM Pro fully powered and connected for any audio task you can throw at it.

You also have a few controls on the front of the unit. This capacitive strip allows for volume controls and play/pause if you keep it within reach. I’ve personally buried mine under a cabinet in my kitchen, but I could see some keeping these controls at the ready. Either way, it’s nice to have the ability to manipulate audio controls without software if needed.

Setup and streaming

Getting the WiiM Pro up and running in your home is a breeze thanks to the fantastic companion app. The initial wizard walks you through the process step-by-step. This includes how to connect your existing speaker system to the WiiM receiver, how to connect your network, and finally the streaming protocols you’d like to use.

These protocols are some of the most robust support I’ve ever seen in a single device. Chromecast, AirPlay2, Spotify Connect, and Tidal Connect all support casting from the first party applications to the WiiM. This makes the WiiM Pro one of the most complete streaming devices you’ll ever find on store shelves.

All this support doesn’t matter if it doesn’t work well, and I’m happy to report that WiiM nailed this. I’ve not had any issues with using the Pro audio streamer on iOS or Android. I can’t speak to all the music services, but I’ve been able to use Chromecast, AirPlay2, and Spotify connect as you’d expect. It just works with them as any first party option. You can even add the WiiM Pro to speaker groups on Google Home and Apple Home.

Final thoughts

Pinnacle Selection represents our highest honor, one reserved for products that stand out in design, performance, and overall value.

Products earning this distinction exemplify excellence across the board, delivering an experience that truly rises above the rest.

When you see the badge, you’re looking at the best of what’s available in its category.

WiiM kinda reminds me of Sonos and older options like Logitech’s Squeezebox stereos had a baby with the Chromecast Audio. Having the majority of streaming services, and direct wireless casting capabilities, create a compelling device that many users may be looking for with previous options being limited or discontinued. It has far exceeded my expectations of a Chromecast option that also does AirPlay2 for the iPhone users in my home.

Finally, the price is also reasonable at $150. While it’s on a bit of the higher end for something that can’t directly create the audio, I think if you want a bulletproof way to add support for pretty much any streaming music service to existing audio gear, the WiiM Pro is the best option I’ve seen. Hit the links below to snag your WiiM Pro audio streamer now.

Purchase the WiiM Pro from Amazon

Google Expands Smart Home Control for Android Users with Gemini App Integration

Scott Webster
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Google Expands Smart Home Control for Android Users with Gemini App Integration

Google is rolling out a new feature today, allowing Android users participating in the Public Preview for Google Home to manage their smart home devices using natural language commands through the Google Home extension within the Gemini mobile app. This feature will become available over the coming weeks, offering a more streamlined approach to controlling compatible smart home accessories.

With the Gemini app, users can issue commands such as “Set the dining room for a romantic date night,” “Turn off the bedroom TV and lights,” “The sun is too bright in the living room” (to close window coverings), and “Help me clean up the kitchen” (to start the vacuum). Once fully deployed, responses will be delivered via the Gemini app instead of Google Assistant, providing a cohesive user experience.

In addition to the new extension, Google has enhanced smart home controls on Nest speakers and displays. These improvements include faster and simpler responses to voice commands and the introduction of new chimes that clearly indicate when devices are turned on or off or if an issue arises, enhancing overall usability.

The Google Home extension within the Gemini mobile app supports a wide range of smart home devices, including:

  • Lights & Power: Lights, outlets, and switches
  • Climate Control: Air conditioning units, thermostats, heaters, and fans
  • Window Coverings: Curtains, blinds, and shutters
  • Media Devices: TVs and speakers
  • Other Smart Devices: Washers, coffee makers, and vacuums

To take advantage of these features, users need an Android phone or tablet, the Gemini app installed, and access to the Public Preview program. Currently, the Google Home extension is not available on iPhone devices, the Gemini web app, or Google Messages. Additionally, Gemini Apps Activity must be enabled for extensions to function properly.

Key Considerations:

  • Language Support: The Google Home extension operates in English only.
  • Voice Settings: Both spoken and typed prompts are supported. Users should ensure “Hey Google” and Voice Match are properly configured on their Android devices.
  • Security and Safety: The extension is designed for convenience and should not be relied upon for safety- or security-critical functions. Certain security device actions, such as controlling gates, cameras, locks, doors, and garage doors, are not supported and require the use of the Google Home app.

Setting Up the Google Home Extension:

  1. Open the Gemini app on your Android device.
  2. Ensure you’re signed in with the same Google Account used for Google Home.
  3. Issue a command, such as “Turn on living room lights.”
  4. If prompted, follow the on-screen instructions to connect Gemini Apps to Google Home.
  5. Once connected, the extension will manage the same homes and devices as the Google Home app, including any new additions or shared devices.

Limitations:

  • The extension cannot perform certain security device actions that require a pin.
  • Streaming video feeds from cameras is not supported.
  • Executing Routines is currently limited, though some functionality is available through Google Assistant integration within the Gemini app.

Google emphasizes that Gemini Apps respect user privacy by accessing personal content only with explicit permission and handling data according to developers’ privacy policies. This integration represents Google’s ongoing efforts to simplify smart home management, providing Android users with more flexible and intuitive control over their connected environments through the Gemini mobile app.

For more information on joining the Public Preview and setting up the Google Home extension, users can visit Google’s official support pages.

Tips to Secure your Android phone for better privacy and safety

AndroidGuys
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Tips to Secure your Android phone for better privacy and safety

Android phones are at a greater risk of being attacked. There is at least one vulnerability in 87 per cent of Android phones while a text message would be enough to hack 95 per cent of them.

Whether you’re browsing the internet for your favorite recipe or trying to use an online service to order a pair of jeans, there are several places from where hackers could attack your smartphone. 

Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

2FA, or two-factor authentication, adds an extra layer of security when using online services. Usually, when logging in to an online site or an app, you enter your username and password. However, with 2FA enabled, the website or app would ask you to also enter a one-time password sent to your phone via text message. 

You can make this process even more secure by using the Authenticator app which will display an OTP that changes every 60 seconds.

Download Apps Only from Trusted Sources

This tip may sound quite simple, but its significance cannot be stressed enough. Google’s Play Store has a system in place to make sure only safe and secure apps are listed on their marketplace. Moreover, you can find all the security-related information of every app on the Play Store before installing it.

In some countries, certain gaming or entertainment apps like online casinos may not be available on the Play Store. While you can play in online casinos from your mobile browser, an app makes things more convenient. As such, you can find the link to download the casino app directly from its official site. Do not search for the APK file on any other websites. Download the app only from the secure and trusted casino site.

Install Security Updates on your Phone

While the OS upgrade happens only when the new Android version is released, the security updates come in more frequently. Install these updates to ensure your Android is updated with the latest security software to patch any existing vulnerabilities.

Updating your apps regularly is another pro tip for securing your Android phone. To make this easier, you can simply turn on auto-update so that you don’t need to manually check for each app if the latest update is available.

VPN for Public Networks

Public Wi-Fi networks can be risky. Hackers use various methods, such as packet sniffing, man-in-the-middle attacks, and evil twin tactics, to exploit these networks.

We suggest using a VPN on public networks for sensitive activities. It would be even better if you could avoid activities like online banking, online shopping, and logging into sensitive accounts while using public Wi-Fi networks.

Protect Your Lock Screen

Without a security code or pattern that protects your lock screen, your Android phone could be at risk. It would take only a few moments for someone to download malware on your phone from the browser when you’re not around.

There are several sensitive apps on your phone that need to be secured with a passcode too. People who play in online casinos often prefer to install the casino app on their smartphones. That app has sensitive information like payment details along with a funded account.

As such, it is extremely important to secure your lock screen and every sensitive app on your Android phone.

Be Aware of Phishing Emails

Do not tap on links in emails you receive from unknown sources. Phishing attacks are often carried out via email. Someone who knows your interests could design an email to lure you into taking the bait.

For example, an email that promises you a $5000 no-deposit bonus plus 100 free spins on your favorite slot machine might just be another phishing attack disguised as a casino promotion.

Make sure to check the sender’s email address and verify with a simple Google search whether it is authentic and coming from the actual casino site.

Conclusion

The sharp rise in attacks on smartphones using adware or other unwanted apps in 2024 is alarming. Smartphone users need to be aware of the various methods that are used to hack their phones. Many simple yet effective security measures like those discussed in this article go a long way to protect your Android phone. Nevertheless, the best tip would be to stay updated with the latest news on Android security and attacks on smartphones.

EDITOR NOTE: This is a promoted post and should not be considered an editorial endorsement

Mint Mobile Introduces Mint Kids: Affordable Wireless Plans Designed for the Young Ones

Scott Webster
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Mint Mobile Introduces Mint Kids: Affordable Wireless Plans Designed for the Young Ones

Mint Mobile has launched Mint Kids, a new wireless plan tailored specifically for children. Priced at $15 per month, Mint Kids provides unlimited talk and text along with 5GB of data, offering the essential connectivity that parents seek for their youngsters without breaking the bank.

Powered by T-Mobile’s expansive 5G network, Mint Kids delivers reliable coverage, ensuring families stay connected effortlessly. Parents can keep an eye on their child’s data usage and receive all account communications, including alerts, making it easier to manage their child’s mobile activity without the usual hassle.

Flexibility is a standout feature of the Mint Kids plan. Without the commitment of long-term contracts, parents can adjust data limits or cancel the plan as their family’s needs change. This adaptability allows for easy management of mobile usage without the stress of binding agreements.

In addition to its core features, Mint Kids includes several benefits that Mint Mobile is known for. These include free access to the 5G network, free roaming in Canada, complimentary calls to Mexico and Canada, mobile hotspot capabilities, and Wi-Fi calling. The plan is available for purchase online and will be available at Target stores starting next month.

Mint Kids embodies Mint Mobile’s commitment to delivering practical and cost-effective solutions for families. By focusing on affordability and ease of use, Mint Mobile aims to make staying connected simple and stress-free for both parents and their children. After all, keeping the kiddos connected shouldn’t require a tech degree—or a magician’s touch!

iQOO 13 is now official in China: features a Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, 2K OLED display, 6150mAh battery, Halo light, and more 

Abhinav Fating
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iQOO 13 is now official in China: features a Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, 2K OLED display, 6150mAh battery, Halo light, and more 

Vivo’s gaming-focused subbrand iQOO has launched its new iQOO 13 smartphone in China. The gaming-centric smartphone comes with subtle improvements over the iQOO 12 smartphone. 

Speaking about the design, it retains the same design as its predecessor. However, iQOO added a customizable Energy Halo light around the rear camera module, which makes it slightly unique from its predecessor.  The halo light adapts to the atmosphere effect of game scenes and offers 72 effects. Additionally, the frame now has a subtle curvature to it, which the iQOO 12 lacked. 

Under the hood, the iQOO 13 is equipped with Qualcomm’s newly announced flagship Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset based on 3nm architecture, paired with Adreno 830 GPU. It packs up to 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM and up to 1TB UFS 4.0 flash storage. iQOO also packs its self-developed supercomputing Q2 chip, which is iQOO’s in-house chipset that succeeds the Q1 chipset. The vapor chamber also gets larger than before, featuring a 7000 mm² VC heat chamber for better heat dissipation. 

With dimensions of 163.37 x 76.71 mm, and a thickness of 7.99mm, the iQOO 13 isn’t a compact smartphone. The device also gains some grams weight, it now weighs 213 grams, a step up from 204 grams iQOO 12. 

The smartphone features a 6.82-inch 2K+ BOE-made LTPO 2.0 AMOLED display with a 144Hz variable refresh rate. There’s a punch-hole 32MP selfie camera and an ultrasonic in-display fingerprint scanner. The iQOO 13 has a triple camera setup at the back consisting of a 50MP 1/1.56-inch Sony IMX921 primary camera with OIS, a 50MP ultrawide shooter with 119.4° field of view, and a 50MP 3x periscope telephoto camera. 

The battery life is bigger than before. The smartphone now boasts a massive 6150mAh battery with 120 W fast charging support. Unfortunately, this time too, iQOO doesn’t pack wireless charging support. 

iQOO 13 starts at CNY 3,999 ($560) for the base 12GB RAM + 256GB variant, and the high-end 16GB RAM + 1TB storage will set you back CNY 5.199 ($730). The smartphone is now available for purchase in China, while shipping starts on November 10. There’s no word yet on the international availability from iQOO. But, the phone is expected to make its international debut in December 2024. 

Baseus Launches Fast-Charging Nomos Series

Scott Webster
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Baseus Launches Fast-Charging Nomos Series

Baseus, a key player in consumer electronics, has rolled out its latest innovation in fast-charging technology—the Nomos series. Tailored for a wide range of users, from tech aficionados and professionals to those navigating hybrid and remote workspaces, the Nomos series is set to simplify charging routines with its versatile and efficient devices.

Nomos 140W Retractable Desktop Charger

Kicking off the lineup is the Nomos 140W Retractable Desktop Charger, the first of its kind to feature a retractable USB-C cable. This 100W built-in cable helps keep your workspace tidy, reducing the number of charging cables and devices cluttering your desk. The charger doubles as a wireless charging stand, holding smartphones securely with its magnetic feature—no more playing tug-of-war with your phone.

Its 5-in-1 design supports charging up to five devices simultaneously, including smartphones, laptops, and headphones, through two USB-C ports, a retractable USB-C port, a magnetic wireless port, and a USB-A port.

With Qi2-certified 15W wireless charging and 140W wired fast charging, it delivers power tailored to each device’s needs. An intelligent power allocation system dynamically adjusts current and voltage based on device requirements, while a built-in digital display keeps you informed about your charging status in real-time.

Nomos 8-in-1 Slim Charging Station

Next up is the Nomos 8-in-1 Slim Charging Station, boasting the title of the world’s slimmest charging station at just 0.67 inches thick. Its ultra-thin and lightweight design makes it perfect for saving desk space and enhancing portability, especially in shared or mobile work environments.

This charging station can handle up to eight devices at the same time, including monitors, PCs, and smartphones. It offers Qi2-certified 15W wireless charging alongside up to 67W wired fast charging. A detachable 5-foot cord ensures optimal storage and portability, while the wireless charging stand provides a secure hold for smartphones—no more juggling cables like a circus performer!

Nomos 3-in-1 Power Bank

For those always on the move, the Nomos Qi2 3-in-1 Power Bank combines wired charging, wireless charging, and a built-in kickstand, allowing users to charge three devices at once. With a 10,000mAh capacity, it delivers 45W wired fast charging and 15W wireless fast charging, keeping your devices powered up efficiently.

Its compact dimensions (106mm x 67.8mm x 19.6mm) make it easy to carry in bags or pockets. The power bank also features a smart digital display for monitoring charging status and a versatile kickstand for holding smartphones in both vertical and horizontal orientations—perfect for those impromptu video calls!

Nomos Retractable Charging Cable

Rounding out the series is the Nomos Retractable Charging Cable, a Type-C to Type-C cable capable of delivering 100W fast charging. Measuring 1.5 meters, the cable offers six adjustable lengths—from 1.5 to 4.9 feet—catering to various workspace setups, including height-adjustable desks. Its retractable design prevents tangling and makes storage effortless, enhancing both usability and portability. Say goodbye to the frustration of tangled wires and hello to a cleaner, more organized workspace.

Availability and Early Bird Offer

The Nomos series hits the shelves on November 7th. To celebrate the launch, Baseus is offering an Early Bird promotion from October 24th to November 6th. During this period, customers can snag a 15% discount on purchases made through the Baseus website and Amazon. Plus, buyers of any Nomos desktop charger, charging station, or power bank will receive a complimentary Mini 100W retractable cable—because who doesn’t love a freebie?

GameSir Tarantula Pro Review

Abhinav Fating
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GameSir Tarantula Pro Review

GameSir has been making waves lately, consistently launching one high-grade controller after another. This time, the company introduces the all-new Tarantula Pro gaming controller. So far, I have reviewed half a dozen GameSir controllers, including the GameSir G7, GameSir Nova Lite, GameSir G7 Iron Man Limited Edition, GameSir G8+, and more. They all share a common trait: a traditional Xbox controller shape. However, the new TaranTula Pro controller is quite different.

In terms of design, it seems that GameSir has dedicated this controller to PlayStation fans, offering a plethora of customization options and features compared to other PlayStation controllers available in the market.

GameSir, a reliable gaming accessories maker, is well-known for its feature-packed, high-grade gaming controllers. The Tarantula Pro is no exception. GameSir provided us with the Tarantula Pro controller’s charging edition, which costs $10 more than the standard edition. I have been using this controller for the past three weeks. Let’s find out whether GameSir’s latest offering holds up during testing in our favorite titles, such as The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, NFS Payback, and Red Dead Redemption.

Pros

  • GameSir’s new Mag-Res TMR sticks
  • 9 mappable buttons
  • Symmetrical design
  • 6-axis gyroscope sensor 
  • Dual-face button layouts 
  • HD rumble motors

Cons 

  • There’s no way to customize the controller settings on a PC 

Unboxing

Price and Availability 

The GameSir Tarantula Pro controller made its debut earlier this month at $70 for the standard edition, while the Charging Edition will set you back $80, which is $10 more than the standard version. You can snag the Tarantula Pro controller via GameSir’s official website and Amazon. Availability won’t be an issue, as GameSir has a strong presence in every market. There are no color options available; it comes in a single jet-black color.

Design and Build 

Image Credit – Abhinav Fating

GameSir opted for a symmetrical layout for the Tarantula Pro, a design typically reserved for PlayStation controllers. The controller bears a striking resemblance to the PS4 DualShock controller, although it does not feature a touchpad. Finished in Jet Black, the GameSir Tarantula Pro controller looks visually impressive. The button and joystick layout closely mirrors that of PlayStation controllers, with the directional pad located in the top-left corner, the face buttons in the top-right corner, and the two hall-effect TMR joysticks positioned in the center of the controller. It is important to note that these TMR sticks differ significantly from GameSir’s standard hall-effect joysticks.

The button layout is intuitive; every button is strategically placed for easy access, including the back buttons. GameSir has also provided nine extra mappable buttons—five on the front, two on the back, and two on the top—which is a welcome feature. This is something we typically see in most high-end controllers, such as Scuf’s Envision Pro Plus. Additionally, there is an NFC reader on top. GameSir has also incorporated a black and gray camo finish on the face of the controller, enhancing its overall aesthetic appeal.

Speaking of build quality, the Tarantula Pro is crafted from hard plastic materials that feel quite premium in hand. The controller is well-balanced, with most of its weight centered, leaving the handles lightweight. Most of the textures are located on the back of the controller, providing a good fit and comfortable grip for any hand size.

The Tarantula Pro features a customizable RGB lighting strip and face buttons, giving it a striking appearance. You can easily customize the RGB lighting either directly from the controller or via the app. GameSir offers a total of six different RGB light presets: Breathing, Fantasy, Rainbow, Radar, Monochrome, and Off. Adjusting the RGB lights felt much easier using the app rather than through the controller itself. You can also change the color, speed, and brightness of the lights directly from the app with ease.

The RGB lighting is vibrant and bright, creating an impressive visual effect. RGB controller enthusiasts will surely appreciate GameSir’s latest offering.

Connectivity and Performance 

Setting up the Tarantula Pro is a straightforward task. GameSir offers three options for connecting the controller to PCs, mobile devices, consoles, and the Switch: Bluetooth, a 2.4GHz USB receiver, and wired connectivity. Initially, I experienced some difficulty connecting to my PC via Bluetooth. However, once I got it set up, it connected seamlessly to both my smartphone and PC.

I tested both wired and wireless connections, and found them to be very reliable and responsive. The wireless dongle worked perfectly as well. I didn’t experience any connectivity issues while testing the controller.

Image credit : Abhinav Fating

The Tarantula Pro controller is extremely customizable, offering more buttons than typical mainstream controllers. You can swap face buttons without needing to replace them, making it much easier to switch layouts compared to GameSir’s mobile-oriented controller, such as the GameSir G8+. Yes, you heard that right—the Tarantula Pro features swappable face buttons that allow you to toggle between the ABXY (Nintendo) layout and the BAXY (Xbox) layout by simply pressing the Rear M key and the A button. This is incredibly cool.

GameSir has incorporated a gear mechanism into the Tarantula Pro controller, enabling users to interchange the face button layout seamlessly. When switching layouts or turning the controller on, you’ll hear a soothing whirring sound from the gears, which adds to the overall experience. Honestly, I really love this button-swapping function.

Image credit : Abhinav Fating

Coming to the performance, I played some of my favorite titles, such as The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, Red Dead Redemption, and NFS Payback, using the Tarantula Pro controller. My experience with the controller has been fantastic. In The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, the controller offers impressive vibration feedback, especially during combat with enemies.

As I mentioned earlier, the Tarantula Pro boasts Mag-Res TMR (Trailblazing, Mighty, Robust) sticks, which represent a step up from GameSir’s regular Hall effect joysticks. The TMR joysticks feel responsive and provide an ideal amount of resistance, making them some of the best joysticks I’ve ever used. Additionally, the D-Pad and face buttons deliver excellent feedback and performance.

The texture-wrapped triggers are highly accurate, allowing for quick response times, especially when playing FPS or racing games. You can enhance sensitivity even further by switching to Hall Effect hair-trigger mode.

You can customize nearly everything in the GameSir Tarantula Pro controller via the GameSir companion app: from triggers and joystick sensitivity ranges (0 to 100), to button mapping, rumble pack strength, RGB lighting, and joystick dead zones. However, there’s a catch: the Tarantula Pro controller is only customizable through the Android companion app, which means you can’t make adjustments on a PC. This limitation is quite surprising.

When I connected the Tarantula Pro controller to my PC, I expected it to work with GameSir’s Nexus app. Unfortunately, that was not the case; the companion app failed to detect the controller. As a result, I had to disconnect the controller from my PC and pair it with my Android smartphone to modify trigger and stick settings, which was very frustrating.

GameSir has packed a plethora of customization options into its latest gamepad, but what is the advantage of all these features if you can’t customize them on a PC? GameSir really needs to improve in this area.

Battery Life

The Tarantula Pro boasts a 1,200mAh battery (600mAh on each side). However, the brand has not provided any claims regarding battery life.

During my three-week testing period, I used the controller for over 21 hours via Bluetooth with the RGB lighting turned on, and I haven’t charged the controller even once. So yes, you can expect up to 21 hours of battery life on a single charge. Battery life may vary based on other factors. For instance, if you turn off the RGB lighting, you can expect an additional one to two hours of battery life.

Should you buy the GameSir Tarantula Pro Gaming Controller? 

You should buy this if…

  • You want a controller with a symmetrical design 
  • You want a highly customizable controller 
  • You want a RGB lighting 
  • You are looking for a lightweight gamepad with extra buttons

You shouldn’t buy this if…

  • You want a popular Xbox-style layout
  • You are looking for a more premium option  

Final Thoughts 

Image credit : Abhinav Fating

Awarded to products with an average rating of 3.75 stars or higher, the AndroidGuys Smart Pick recognizes a balance of quality, performance, and value.

Products with this distinction deserve to be on your short list of purchase candidates.

I have reviewed several GameSir gamepads, but the Tarantula Pro is truly one of the best controllers I’ve ever used. GameSir’s new offering comes with an overwhelming number of features, which I’m sure a casual gamer might easily forget about within a few weeks.

I really love GameSir’s new snappy TMR joysticks, which offer incredible response times. The triggers are excellent, providing the option to choose between analog and hair-trigger modes. Additionally, you get 9 mappable keys, an interchangeable face layout, and an NFC reader. The customizable RGB lighting adds a striking look to the controller. Its sturdy build and ergonomic design make it super comfortable for extended gaming sessions.

Overall, the Tarantula Pro has impressed me greatly. If you are looking for a well-built, feature-packed, and extremely customizable controller, you can’t go wrong with GameSir’s Tarantula Pro.

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